Hong Kong: Belt & Road Summit attracts leaders

Chief Executive John Lee

This eighth edition of the Belt & Road Summit promises to be particularly special. An anniversary year is always memorable. This year, we welcome the 10th anniversary of the Belt & Road Initiative.

The Initiative is an inspired strategy designed to bring countries, economies, businesses and peoples together. The theme of this two-day high-profile event - "Prospering on a Decade of Collaboration" - makes that abundantly clear.

I would like to begin by expressing my sincere gratitude to the Honourable Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, who will address this event with a video shortly. Indeed, the central government has all along provided its solid support to this summit.

Hong Kong plays the role of participant, contributor and beneficiary in the Belt & Road Initiative. He expressed his fourfold expectations for Hong Kong. Hong Kong remains steadfast in promoting the advancement of this wide-ranging blueprint and contributing to our country's efforts in global governance.

This year's summit is, I am pleased to note, the first in-person, face-to-face edition since we moved on from COVID-19. We are opened up, once again, to doing what we do best: creating a world of opportunity.

I am delighted to see how well the world has responded. The summit has attracted nearly 6,000 government officials, business leaders, entrepreneurs and startups from some 70 countries and regions along the Belt & Road. More than 100 overseas and Mainland delegations are here for the summit.

The number of foreign ministers attending, and the number of MOUs (memorandum of understanding) being exchanged and signed at this year's global meeting, are all larger than that of any previous Belt & Road Summit.

These record-breaking numbers are clear and compelling confirmation that Hong Kong has returned to the world's centre stage.

Back in 2013, President Xi Jinping launched the "Silk Road Economic Belt" during a visit to Kazakhstan. In Indonesia, later that year, he added the "21st Century Maritime Silk Road".

President Xi's vision, then as now, was to see the extraordinary promise in pursuing common development and prosperity for all.

Today, more than 150 countries and over 30 international organisations have signed co-operation agreements with China in collective pursuit of this Belt & Road all-embracing initiative.

That, ladies and gentlemen, has set in motion more than 3,000 co-operation projects - nearly US$1 trillion in investment towards a multiplicity of national landmarks, bilateral developments and livelihood initiatives. Collectively, they account for about 40% of the global GDP (gross domestic product) and 45% of the world's merchandise trade.

Hong Kong is determined to embrace the vast promise of the Belt & Road. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is redoubling efforts to serve as the Belt & Road's functional platform.

Under the unique "one country, two systems" principle, Hong Kong is bestowed with the strong support of our country and long-standing global connections.

Hong Kong is an important conduit between Mainland China and the world. We are expanding our co-operation with Belt & Road partners in a wide range of areas. From trade and investment, innovation and technology (I&T), to infrastructure development and many more.

For the common good. For the common prosperity of our people. And peoples everywhere.

Hong Kong is your ideal Belt & Road centre. The opportunities begin here, on the doorstep of Mainland China. In particular, the Greater Bay Area (GBA). The bay area is a cluster-city development that counts the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau, and nine other cities in southern China. The GBA boasts an affluent, consumer-led population of more than 86 million. The combined GDP of the bay areas 11 cities has surpassed US$1.9 trillion last year. That is equivalent to the 10th largest economy in the world.

More than 260 delegates representing over 35 state-owned enterprises from Mainland China have joined this year's summit. They will take part in project investment and business sessions throughout today and tomorrow.

I urge you to make full use of the opportunity to understand from them the enormous development potential of our country.

I also encourage you to capitalise on Hong Kong's world-class financing, as well as our professional services support, crucial for business and project development.

Here, you can find the partners you need. Risk management, legal and dispute resolution services, architectural and infrastructure management, I&T offerings and much more. Wherever in the world your Belt & Road projects are planned and realised.

That includes the Middle East and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) - two regions to which I led high-level business delegations to visit earlier this year. The visits illustrate our deepening collaboration with Belt & Road partners. And it is good to see that many of the friends we made on the two trips are here with us today.

More than building partnerships and friendships, Hong Kong delegates entered into some 50 MOUs and letters of intent during the visits. That underlines the unlimited potential of the regions and their countries, and our mutually strong desire for growth and prosperity.

Those MOUs cover a wide range of areas, from managing a dry port and logistics zone in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to the establishment of an international office of the Dubai Chambers here in Hong Kong.

Saudi Arabia's Future Investment Initiative Institute will host its first PRIORITY Asia Summit, right here in Hong Kong in December. If you have a keen interest in I&T, in Saudi Arabia and the Saudi Vision 2030 blueprint, you will want to add that summit to your calendar.

And, of course, you are off to a great start here when it comes to exploring opportunities with Middle East partners.

Later this morning, Christopher Hui, our Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury, will chair a policy dialogue, "Tapping into the Potential of the Middle East". The high-powered panel will include honourable ministers and senior officials from Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Our first Middle East Forum gets going tomorrow morning, with business intelligence and insight from senior Middle East government officials and corporate leaders.

And there's more, including a special "Finance Chapter", spotlighting Hong Kong as a capital-raising hub for the Middle East, ASEAN and beyond.

Hong Kong is, let me add, strengthening financial ties with Dubai, exchanging an MOU on financial co-operation at this summit.

As for ASEAN, during my visit to Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore in July, the leaders of each country reaffirmed their support for Hong Kong's accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

RCEP, the world's largest free trade agreement, covers a market of some 2.2 billion people. That is almost a third of the world's population that accounts for nearly 28% of global trade.

Premier Li Qiang, speaking at the ASEAN Plus Three Summit last week, reaffirmed the central government's strong support to Hong Kong's bid to join the RCEP. We are committed to bringing important value to the RCEP by fostering regional co-operation with member economies.

The Belt & Road is also an important catalyst for green development. The Hong Kong SAR Government is committed to a green future. We are focused on green financing, including the issuing of green bonds, as well as building environmental, social and governance awareness.

Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing, late last year, launched "Core Climate". The international carbon marketplace connects capital with climate-related products and opportunities in Hong Kong, the Mainland, the rest of Asia and beyond.

Hong Kong and the Mainland, I am delighted to add, are exchanging two environmental MOUs at the summit: one on water-quality management, the other on environmental and meteorological monitoring.

Hong Kong will also exchange today an environmental protection MOU with Sri Lanka.

Looking ahead, I will be promoting Hong Kong to more Belt & Road countries and regions, from Central Asia to Eastern Europe and Africa - and to other economies that are keen to connect with Hong Kong and our country.

Ladies and gentlemen, Hong Kong is a Belt & Road super highway. We connect and add value to businesses and all the projects that come along.

We also promote the exchange of cultures and peoples through a variety of projects and initiatives, including the Belt & Road Scholarship. To date, more than 430 outstanding young people from over 30 countries have benefitted from this fund, pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Hong Kong.

Over the next two days, some 150 young people from Hong Kong and other Belt & Road economies will join the summit's youth chapter. They will be our youth ambassadors. A big boost to our people-to-people exchange in the younger generation.

Chief Executive John Lee gave these remarks at the eighth Belt & Road Summit on September 13.

This story has been published on: 2023-09-14. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Vatican Sources Have Leaked that Bishop Strickland of Tyler TX Will be Asked to Resign NEWS PROVIDED BY

Randall Terry

Sept. 14, 2023



WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2023 /Christian Newswire/ -- Bishop Strickland has publicly stated that he will refuse to resign, and that he will exhaust the canonical remedies at his disposal to protect his episcopacy. Event Details



What: Press conference and demonstration at Vatican Embassy



Why: To Call on the Vatican to Leave Bishop Strickland Alone.



Where: Vatican Embassy; 3339 Massachusetts Ave N.W.



When: Thursday, September 14, 3:30 P.M. Bishop Strickland has become beloved by millions of faithful Catholics and Protestants - in a way similar to that of the Late Bishop Fulton Sheen - because of his unflinching defense of the unborn, recognizing that marriage can only be between a man and a woman, and Catholic Orthodoxy.



Conversely, he has become a "thorn in the side" of those in the Vatican who wish to undermine Church teaching and tradition.



Catholics and Protestants (who love life, and Bishop Strickland's courage) will gather at the Vatican embassy to pray, and call on the Vatican to leave Bishop Strickland alone.



Randall Terry, Operation Rescue Founder States: "Why is the Vatican singling out Bishop Strickland? What nefarious forces are at play inside the Vatican that would silence one of the most beloved and heroic bishops of our times?



"We humbly call on the Vatican to give us MORE bishops like Bishop Strickland. The Church in America and around the world is racked by scandal, precisely because of the lack of courageous, outspoken Bishops - who defend life and truth with their voices, their reputations, and if need be, their lives.



"Bishop Strickland's 'sin' is that he became popular on social media, and made other prelates and people in the Vatican look bad. The problem for him is that he is too much like a 'soloist.' We don't need a great 'soloist;' we need a great 'choir.'



"The real test on the horizon is this: How many of his brother bishops in America and around the world will speak up publically in Bishop Strickland's defense? This is where the mettle of other good men will be tested." To interview Randall Terry text 904-687-9806



SOURCE Randall Terry



CONTACT: 904-687-9806



Share Tweet
St. Thomas Christians in Kerela: Emerging Fault Lines

The history of Christianity in India began with the arrival of the "Doubting Thomas" better known as Thomas the Apostle, one of the twelve discipline of the Jesus Christ as per the Bible in Muziris (Modern Day Kodungallur in Thrissur District of Kerela) in the year 52 AD.

There he established "Ezharappallika" i.e seven churches or communities in Kodungallur & Palayur in Thrissur District, North Paravur in Ernakulam district, Kokkamangalam in Alappuzha district, Niranan & Chayal in Pathanamthitta district and the city of Kollam (Old Name Quilon).

It was these seven churches established by Thomas the Apostle that led to the growth of Syrian Christians of Kerala. The Saint Thomas Christian or Syrian Christian in Kerela, employ western liturgical rites of the Syriac Christianity. As per the 2011 Indian Census, the total Christian population in Kerela was 19.19% and out of this the Syrian Christian make 70.73%.

Christian Division in Kerela

The Syrian Christians of Kerela reiterate to the traditions of St. Thomas, which were different from the traditions of St. Peters adopted and followed by Rome and thereafter enforced by the Pope on all Christians worldwide. It was not until the "Synod of Diamper" introduced by the Portuguese in 1599 that the Christians of Kerela were brought under Rome. Rome thus recognized the Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara liturgical rites alonge with its universally practiced Latin Rite.

The two sects are different from one another, the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church based out of Kakkannad, Kochi follows the East Syriac rites while the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church based out of Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram follows the West Syriac Rite.

The Syro-Malabar Church used the same vestment for its clergymen as Rome has approved, which is greatly influenced by the Roman Civilization and uses the Latin rite for liturgical purposes with minor differences, the Syro-Malankara has been using its orthodox vestments as is now a part of the Eastern Church.

Reforms in the Second Vatican Council

The Second Ecumenical Council of the Vatican, or more commonly known as the second Vatican council was the 21stEcumenical council of the Catholic Church. The council which started on October 11, 1962 under Pope John XXII closed three years later on December 8, 1965 under Pope Paul VI. Though the Catholic Church is known for its rigid conservative approach, the second Vatican council shows that reforms were possible in this rigid institution.

Among the major reforms, women no longer had to cover their hair in Church, the Holy Mass (Prayer Service done in the Church) could not be done in local vernacular languages and not in Latin, so that people could understand and participate in the prayer services. The Alter, which until now, back faced people, was turned around to face the people, and this has become a major point of contention today between Rome and the Syro-Malabar Church. Though the Catholic Chruch in the Council made a declaration of Religious Liberty, it laid silent on the issue of Divorce, contraceptives and abortion.

Politics over Christian Divisions

The Pinarayi Vijayan government envisaged a legislature to resolve the contention raised by the 2017 Supreme Court of India order, granting the Syro-Malankara church control over 1100 church and parishes in Kerela, while declaring that the Jacobite's had no legal basis to content for ownership over any of the church. While the Jacobites have welcomed the Vijayan Government's move to introduce a legislature, the Syro-Malankara Chruch finds the legislature, a devious move to the alter the judgement of the Supreme Court of India.

The Jacobite faction arose in 1912 out of a dispute within the Syro-Malankara Chruch over the issue of whether it should be under the Syriac rite based in Antioch (Modern Day Antakya, Turkey) or be Independent. The Jacobite's argued for communion with the Antiochian Patriarchate, the more orthodox faction, argued for its independence. The Supreme Court's Verdict in 2017 did not resolve the problem, and the situation went from bad to worse. Due to Instances of Violence in bigger churches such as Piravom and Kakkannad in Ernakulum in Ernakulum District, Police has to intervene to maintain law and order. The District Collector has to take control of the churches and hand over the keys to the Kerala High Court.

As the Supreme Court of India came down heavily on the state government for non-implementation of its verdict, the state government was in the same dilemma as a few months later it will be in the Sabarimala verdict. The Government of Kerala decided to talk to both the parties but to no benefit and finally decided to end the stalemate by bringing in a new legislature in the Legislative Assembly of Kerala.

Punnadath Rajeev, the then Law Minister of Kerala briefed the LDF (Left Democratic Front) State Committee that the new legislature in violation of the Supreme Court Judgement would allow each faction to exercise its right to worship in churches. While the Supreme Court's verdict was based on the interpretation of the 1934 Malankara Church Constitution.

In February 2023, the Jacobite faction told the Supreme Court that a bill prepared by the Kerala Law Reforms Commission chaired by Justice (Retd) K.T Thomas is pending before the Government of Kerala, replying to this the Orthodox Syro-Malankara stated that the Government of Kerala had made it clear that it had no such intension, while the Advocate General of Kerala (Highest Law Officer of the Government) was silent on the matter.

As this Issues drags with Government of Kerala trying to appease both the factions, on August 17, 2023 Catholics under the Syro-Malabar church burned an order from Archbishop Cyril Vasil, Delegate of the Pope. Archbishop Cyril Vasil was appointed by the Vatican to find a solution to a decade-old liturgy dispute, had threatened the priests, bishops and non-clergy persons with excommunication if they fail to comply with the Latin rite rules of serving the Holy Mass.

To this out of the 328 parishes only 6 complied with the Synod-approved uniform mode of Rome, the remaining stuck to their traditional Convention leaving the Vatican Red Faced and Embarrassed. The Crux of the matter is protracted controversy, wherein the synod-approved liturgy (Latin Rite of the Rome) asks priests to face the people while offering the Holy Mass, the Syro-Malabar Catholics refused to follow this Vatican Council II Rules and adhere to their own traditional norms of facing the alters during the Holy Mass. There seems to be no solutions and the Syro-Malabar catholic church stands in open defiance to the Pope, looking to be an independent church.

Connecting the Dots

While the History of Christianity in Kerala is as old as Christ itself, the almost 20% Christian population of Kerala is a fragmented group each having acrimonious relations with each other. The Church usually divided between the Catholic and the Protestants, in Kerala is seeing new variation with factions within factions. The Eastern Church, the Protestants, the Catholic are themselves not in order and infighting between these groups over traditions and conventions are only increasing.

The Religious-Socio demography of Kerala is getting more and more complicated with more than 50% Hindus divided among themselves into various sects and factions, while around 25% Muslims also share the fruits of fragmentation. These factionalisms have been known for long, and the Politics of Kerala has adopted to this, but this increasing factionalism among the Christian might look an internal issue as of now, but with time it will have larger socio-political and economic repercussions.
This editorial appears in the September 15, 2023 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

EDITORIAL

To Achieve a New International Development Architecture

[Print version of this editorial]

The issue is this: What is it that actually gives value to a currency, or value to an economy? This is where Lyndon LaRouche is uniquely qualified and, therefore, the world is thrust into a situation where, whether people like it or not, they will have to take up his ideas, if we are going to make it past this hurdle.

Heres what I mean. Take the case of an engineer, or in geometry: You can use Euclidean geometry to build a bookshelf, to do something of that sort. You can assume that the world is flat, even though we know it isnt; you can use the basic assumption of a triangle having 180 degrees, and so on, to work things out for immediate purposes. You could believe in Newton, which is false.

But, if you want to travel to the Moon, if you want to go to Mars, if you do not understand Einsteins breakthroughs in relativistic physics, youre going to miss your target. Youre going to make a mistake. Your bookshelf is not going to stand up to what youre actually trying to do.

Were facing the same situation right now in the economy, where you could use certain measures, even monetary measures, for a brief period of time. You could, for example, even assume that youre going to develop a new currency with backing from oil, other commodities, and so on and so forth.

But, heres the question: What happens when your investments lead to an entire leap in the technological platform, where oil is no longer a form of fuel but its just a feedstock for petrochemicals, plastics, and so on, as it should be? What is the value of your oil if you have succeeded in the development of your physical economy by transforming a technological platform, which devalues everything that previously had value? Clearly, you are not going to be able to use any particular object. You cannot have a physiocratic approach to this thing. There can be stepping stones, but stepping stones toward the only thing that actually does not change throughout all change, as Plato referred to it. And that is, the human capability of constant, unending creative advance in the development of the physical universe.

That capability, that scientific advance, that advance in creative arts, that breakthrough to discover new laws of the physical universethat is the actual, only measure of a physical economy that can function.

And therefore, the task that is immediately before the BRICS, to be able to walk through this next ring of fire, is to begin to get a grasp of the economics that Lyndon LaRouche has laid out, because no monetary approach is possibly going to work.

And, for that very reason, I think that projects, such as the space project of India, of Russia, of China, of the United States, and of Europe, express the common destiny of mankind. And, to the degree to which nations of the so-called Global South, that have also made progress in this direction, such as Argentina and Brazil, and so on and so forth, they become part of that universal project.

That emphasis on scientific advance and technological breakthroughs, as the driving force of the economy, that is what has to be transferred into the issue of developing a monetary system, or a credit system, that can issue credit for the purpose of those kinds of advances.

So, I think that thats where the discussion takes usto that very interesting conundrum, of how do we think about the next step, because it is not linear. Theres a complete transformation of the entire nature of mans relationship to the physical universe, and thats what economics is all about. And I think that thats the standpoint from which we now will be facing the political and the economic task before us.
Putin Takes a Page from Sergei Wittes Program for Siberian Development

Sept. 13, 2023, 2022 (EIRNS)Speaking at the 8th Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, President Vladimir Putin made it crystal-clear that Russia was initiating an all-out thrust to develop the tremendous economic and natural resources existing in the vast Siberian territory. Putin began his plenary remarks, one thing is clear, the Far East is Russias strategic priority for the entire 21st century, and we will stick to this.

During the last couple of weeks, Putin has been in discussion with regional leaders in the Arctic region and the northern Arctic states, talking about the need to push for developing the cities of the north along the Northern Sea Corridor and farther east in Magadan, Andyr and Yakutia. Then he had discussions with those responsible for the more southern region of Siberia and the cities of Blagoveshchensk, Khabarovsk, and Birobidzhan, which are close to the Chinese border. The challenges of developing this region are formidable.

The Siberian Development was initially launched in the 1890s under Russian Finance Minister Sergei Witte, who took charge of the construction of the Trans-Siberian Railroad, the first link that now traverses all of Russias 11 time zones to the Pacific. In Putins program there will be a significant upgrade of the Trans-Siberian Railroad and the Baikal Amur Mainline (BAM) which runs north of parallel to the Trans-Siberian line.

The original Trans-Siberian was built to unite the Russian Empire by rail, but also to reach the rich markets of the Asia-Pacific. Agreements with the Chinese Empire allowed Witte to build the last link of the extension of the line through Manchuria, the Chinese Eastern Railroad, bringing it into the midst of the Asian market. It was only when the Japanese, with the backing of their British supporters, succeeded in starting the first Sino-Japanese War of 1894, followed 10 years later by the Russo-Japanese War, that the Witte plan ended in shambles.

In Putins endeavor, as well, he has the full support of China, which will benefit tremendously from this development. The mineral and other resources of the vast Far East region will serve to fuel the continued growth of the entire Asia Pacific region. The emphasis that Putin has put on the cities infrastructure is to encourage people to migrate to the region, where the climate can often be difficult. As Witte had to do, the state must today subsidize some of the effort in order to assist people to move to the Far East. Witte offered free land for farming and likewise Putin is offering free land for setting up businesses. Improving the infrastructure of cities where people will live is of the utmost importance in encouraging the migration eastward. But the payoff will be great with Russias Far East providing much of the resources the rest of the region needs.

There will also be an emphasis on the development of industry and of science and technology, and the presence of the Vostochny Cosmodrome will serve as a catalyst for developments in education in aerospace and related fields.

The difference from the earlier phase is that the center of world production and trade is now firmly in the Asia Pacific region. Developing the east of Russia both enhances that general trend and benefits from it. China, aware of the importance of Russias moves, is also preparing to upgrade the economy of Heilongjiang in old Manchuria, which once was Chinas industrial heartland. And it is by no accident that Xi Jinping traveled to Heilongjiang last week to put an emphasis on the importance of the region in this new geometry thats developing.
EIR LEAD EDITORIAL FOR THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 14, 2023

From Johannesburg to Vladivostok: The Tectonic Shift Continues

Sept. 13, 2023 (EIRNS)Three weeks ago, in his remarks to the BRICS Business Forum during the Aug. 22-24 BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, Russian President Vladimir Putin told the gathered leaders from dozens of nations: I would like to invite representatives of your countries business circles to attend the Eastern Economic Forum in Russia that will take place on Sept. 10-13 in the city of Vladivostok, where, by tradition, the discussions will focus on issues that are also of interest to the business communities of the BRICS countries.

The just-concluded Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) delivered on that promise. The BRICS discussion in Johannesburg of the new pathways for high-technology industrial development of the nations of the Global Majority, and of the new international financial and security architecture needed to make that possible, was continued and elaborated in Vladivostok. Putin personally took the lead in laying out a detailed vision of the full-scale transformation of Russias Far Eastand of the surrounding area and nationswith science and technology, great infrastructure projects, population growth, and the training of a skilled labor force.

One thing is clear, Putin stated at the beginning of his keynote address to the Plenary Session of the EEF. The Far East is Russias strategic priority for the entire 21st century, and we will stick to this.

As in Johannesburg, there was also substantive discussion in Vladivostok, both in official EEF sessions and on the sidelines of the event, of how to establish among the nations of the Global Majority a new financial system free of dollar speculation, a system capable of financing not only trade but also the massive, long-term investments that will be occurring.

Although many in the West fail to recognize it, the new global, physical-economic center of gravity has shifted from the trans-Atlantic to the Asia-Pacific region. This is a development that Lyndon LaRouche famously elaborated on in his December 2004 Dialogue of Eurasian Civilizations: Earths Next Fifty Years, and which he had forecast well before then.

That tectonic shift was also a central point in Putins remarks in Vladivostok. Asked during the Q&A session after his plenary keynote, if his concept of the development of the Far East was the result of the sanctions and economic warfare recently launched against Russia, Putin said that was not where it came from.

Firstly, we launched that project 10 years ago.... We started doing this long before the events that took place in the past few years, in 2014, and we did it because we saw the global economic development trends. We saw the rise of new centers of influence and economic development.... We saw what was changing and how, and we can see today that these trends have not slowed down but are gathering momentum.

After the 2014 fascist coup in Ukraine, Putin explained,

many processes began to accelerate. In this regard, we can only feel sorry that we did not implement the plans on infrastructure development, including the railway network to the Far East in good time. Because, honestly, the government miscalculated to a certain extent and believed that there would not be that much cargo shipment volume; even over the past few years it has been much bigger than one could imagine. But it is okay, we are making it work, there are plans that were developed earlier and consequently it will be easier for us to implement them even within a short time frame.

Putin then turned to the issue of Africa, which had also been central to the BRICS discussions in Johannesburg. He denounced the continuing neo-colonial debt slavery being imposed on that continent, describing the way in which the old colonial powers are still trying to issue commands and pursue their neo-colonial policy there. They have put all African countries in debt, which runs into trillions of dollars. In other words, they have created a financial credit system for Africa under which the African countries can never pay off their loans.

From Johannesburg to Vladivostok, the nations of the Global Majority have now posed the issue squarely for the people of the United States and Europe: Join this emerging new global economic and security architecture, and stop the deadly slide in the West into depression and perpetual warfare.
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.
On 13 September the US-based press freedom group Inter-American Press Association (IAPA) urged Panamas Partido Revolucionario Democratico (PRD) government led by Presidentto withdraw a proposed new transparency bill, considering it will hinder journalists and citizens from accessing public information and will shield cases of corruption in public administration.

End of preview - This article contains approximately 391 words.

Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article

Not a Subscriber?

Choose from one of the following options
On 13 September Venezuelas Presidentmet his Chinese counterpartin Beijing, where Xi upgraded Chinas relationship with Venezuela to an all-weather strategic partnership.

End of preview - This article contains approximately 571 words.

Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article

Not a Subscriber?

Choose from one of the following options
Creighton University recently unveiled a new institute focused on improving health outcomes in Nebraska, with specific goals of improving access to health care and helping to address health inequities in the community.

The Rev. Daniel Hendrickson, Creightons president, announced the creation of the Institute for Population Health in an address on the universitys Omaha campus and in another on its Phoenix, Arizona, campus.

The Institute for Population Health embodies our mission of service and justice, bringing together our Creighton community with our partners to identify concrete solutions that enhance individual well-being and eliminate systemic barriers to health equity broadly, Hendrickson said in a statement.

Dr. Scott Shipman, a Lincoln native who earned his medical degree at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, serves as executive director of the new institute. He returned to Nebraska last fall after serving as director of clinical innovations and primary care initiatives with the Association of American Medical Colleges in Washington, D.C.

In that position, he said, he worked with large academic health systems to think about ways to redesign clinical models to root out inefficiencies and improve communication and coordination among providers.

Driving the creation of the institute is the high cost of health care in the United States, which despite that investment has the lowest life expectancy among other, lower-spending wealthy nations. The U.S. spent more than $4.3 trillion on health care in 2021, which represents 18.3% of the nations gross domestic product.

Shipman said one focus of the institute is promoting high-value care. That is generally considered to be preventive care such as childhood immunizations and certain cancer screenings that can head off more serious and costly problems later on but that often is underused by people with multiple chronic health conditions and low-income and minority groups.

The new institute is going to focus a significant part of its attention on how we can make the delivery of health care better, improve access and root out waste and inefficiency, he said.

The institute also will focus on health disparities created by the health care system, including barriers to access for certain populations and implicit biases in health care, Shipman said.

Accessing health care is a challenge for many in the U.S. and is a particular challenge in rural areas. Some 35% of Nebraskans live in rural areas, according to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, more than double the national average.

Rural access to surgical care was the focus of the inaugural Creighton-CHI Health Equity in Rural Surgery Symposium Friday in Omaha. Shipman hosted the symposium with Dr. Waddah Al-Refaie, the new chairman of the Creighton School of Medicines surgery department.

But while the health care system will be one focus, Shipman said, the institute also recognizes that 80% of the factors that determine health outcomes are not medical. They include individuals health behaviors and the conditions in which they are born, live and work, such as access to affordable food and housing.

Given that, he said, the institute will focus on supporting population health at the community level by working with community-based organizations, those that already have established, trusted relationships in the community, to help them do even better at what they do. That could mean bringing the universitys resources to bear to help such groups build capacity and skills, as well as supporting their evaluation of interventions in the community.

The institute, he said, will be building an approach known as implementation science, which he used in his previous position. It involves applying best practices, turning ideas into successfully executed interventions and evaluating those interventions along the way to find out whether theyre working. Those that are can be scaled up in ways that will be sustainable.

Its building on that experience that I want to bring here, said Shipman, who also trained in pediatrics at Dartmouth College and earned a masters degree in public health at Johns Hopkins University.

In addition to partnering with community groups, another key to the institutes work will be leveraging data to raise awareness about needs in the community and to drive action. Shipman will work in partnership with CHI Health, Creightons clinical partner, and CyncHealth, which provides health care data to providers throughout Nebraska.

A second symposium Oct. 23-24, which will be open to the public, will focus on using population health to build healthier communities. The symposium, Building Bridges for Healthier Communities, will include national experts on population health and breakout sessions with Creighton faculty and community leaders. Registration and additional information are available at https://www.creighton.edu/events/university-symposium-population-health-building-bridges-healthier-communities.
State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada

Zip Code
Two days after the British Government ordered the expulsion of 25 alleged Soviet spies, the USSR has retaliated by throwing out 25 British nationals.

It follows the defection of Soviet double-agent and KGB chief Oleg Gordievsky to the West.

He gave British security services an unprecedented amount of information about Soviet agents operating in the UK. In fact he had recently been appointed head of the KGB in London in charge of the USSRs whole spy operation in Britain.

He is the highest-ranking KGB espionage source to be identified and his defection was described by Foreign Secretary Sir Geoffrey Howe as a very substantial coup for our security forces.

The Foreign Office revealed that Mr Gordievsky had been a double agent since 1966. He was persuaded to work for the Danish intelligence service soon after the KGB posted him to Copenhagen posing as a press attache.

Three Soviet diplomats were expelled from Denmark in 1977 thanks to information he gave to the Danes.

In 1982 the KGB sent him to London as a counsellor for the Soviet Embassy when he began working for MI5.

Mr Gordievskys revelations are a severe blow to the KGB, but MI5s greatest asset is also gone.

It is believed he is behind the expulsion of several other Soviet diplomats in the last few years. []

There was a flurry of activity in Whitehall when news broke of the Soviet tit-for-tat expulsions.

Sir Geoffrey held meetings with Foreign Office and security service officials to discuss Britains next move and the impact on Anglo-Soviet relations.

President Mikhail Gorbachev and Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher have developed a certain personal rapport that has boosted trade between the two countries.

But the current crisis could undermine Anglo-Soviet relations.

In a statement Sir Geoffrey said: We utterly condemn this unjustified action directed against British businessmen and journalists, as well as embassy staff.

Although the embassy in Moscow has been hit hard  18 of their 43 diplomats have been told to pack their bags  only two of the 25 people expelled were businessmen. Analysts suggest this means President Gorbachev wants to maintain the trade links that bring in much-needed hard currency.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

Two days later the British government ordered the expulsion of a further six Soviet officials and lowered the ceiling on the number of officials allowed to work in the UK from 211 to 205.

On 18 September the USSR expelled six more Britons at which point UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher announced a halt to the tit-for-tat expulsions.

Some months later details of Mr Gordievskys dramatic defection emerged.

His KGB bosses in Moscow had suspected him of betraying his country in May 1985 and summoned him back to Russia for interrogation.

He then contacted his handlers who helped him get to the British Embassy. From there he escaped to Finland in the back of a van.

After the British secret service had interrogated him he was flown to the UK with his family. He has since written books detailing the operations of the KGB.
EVERY year in September, cocktail enthusiasts come together to celebrate Negroni Week, showing appreciation for the art of mixology. Red, bold and punchy, Negroni is typically mixed with gin, vermouth and Campari. Its origin can be traced back to Italy in 1919 when Count Camillo Negroni asked his friend, bartender Forsco Scarselli to strengthen his favorite cocktail, the Americano, which was the Negroni we know today.

MGM COTAIs signature speakeasy-style lounge Bar Patua bring you a 7-day Negroni Week Specials. With its elegant and serene Chinese-Portuguese ambiance, Bar Patua is an ideal place for an ultimate escape to celebrate Negroni Week. In addition to Classic Negroni, you can sip and savor creative twist of Negroni infused with roasted coffee beans, jasmine tea, signature spices, and smoked agave. Each tipple is meticulously crafted that you will fall in love at first taste.

Mezcal Negroni with an explosive smoky flavor made with Agave spirit originated in Mexico, Mancino Rosso, Campari and Rose Water Bitters.

Jasmine Negroni blends cold brew Jasmine Tea in Gin, Mancino Bianco Ambrato Vermouth, Lillet Blanc, Elder Flower liqueur with Aromatic Botanical Orange bitters, offering a unique floral touch. Negroni Week Specials at Bar Patua only available from September 18 to 24. Make your reservation now at (853) 8806 2398.
The European Union is launching an investigation into subsidies that China provides to electric vehicle makers, the head of the blocs executive branch said yesterday, as concern grows that the aid is harming European companies.

Global markets are now flooded with cheaper Chinese electric cars, and their price is kept artificially low by huge state subsidies. This is distorting our market, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told EU lawmakers in Strasbourg, France.

As we do not accept this distortion from the inside in our market, we do not accept this from the outside, von der Leyen said. So, I can announce today that the commission is launching an anti-subsidy investigation into electric vehicles coming from China.

Chinas leaders have helped make the country the biggest market for electric vehicles by investing billions of dollars in subsidies to get an early lead in what is seen as a promising industry.

Global automakers face growing competition in their home regions from Chinese brands that are taking market share.

Electric vehicle makers including BYD Auto and Geely Groups Zeekr unit began sales this year in Japan and Europe. Geely also owns Swedens Volvo Cars and its all-electric luxury brand, Polestar. MDT/AP
The First Business Conference on Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development will be held in Macau for two days from today. Some 1,000 attendees from domestic and international political and business sectors are expected join the conference. Under the theme of Greater Bay Area, Farsighted Strategy, Extensive Exchange, and Great Development, the business conference will discuss topics of interest to domestic and overseas business sectors, such as the digital economy, green finance, cultural tourism and MICE and interconnectivity.

Related
When she first moved to the Chinese tech hub of Shenzhen after graduating from college, Marguerite Wang imagined she would spend her career working hard in a big city. Instead, shes living with her parents in her hometown in northeastern China.

A record of more than one in five young Chinese are out of work, their career ambitions at least temporarily derailed by a depressed job market as the economy struggles to regain momentum after its long bout with COVID-19.

Wang, who was laid off from a gaming company in December, is among an estimated 16 million young Chinese who, daunted by the difficulties of finding decent jobs, have moved back home. She asked that her English nickname be used out of concern that speaking to foreign media might hurt her job prospects.

After spending six months unsuccessfully applying for jobs in Shenzhen, the 29-year-old did something she had never imagined doing: she asked to move back home. Now she spends her days watching soap operas and studying Japanese to apply for a masters program in Japan.

Adult children returning to the nest is by no means unique to China, and many Chinese do live in extended families. But by some measures, young Chinese are enduring the countrys worst job market in generations, and many are coping by taking refuge with their parents.

The urban unemployment rate for the 16-to-24 age group reached a record 21.3% in June. In July, the government stopped publishing age-specific data, prompting speculation the politically sensitive numbers had shot up even higher.

If full-time adult children were counted as unemployed, the jobless rate would be more than double the official rate of almost 20 percent in March, Zhang Dandan, a Peking University economics professor, said in an op-ed in the Chinese business magazine Caixin in July.

That would be a more accurate assessment of the unemployment crisis, said Zhang, who declined an interview request from AP. Her article was later removed from one of Peking Universitys WeChat accounts, where it had been shared.

ANXIETY AND CONFUSION

The job drought is a ticklish problem for the ruling Communist Party, which is overseeing a sluggish post-pandemic economic recovery worsened by a downturn in the property market.

The economy grew at a 6.3% pace in April-June compared to the same period a year earlier, when parts of China were under draconian COVID-19 lockdowns. Exports have been sinking as other major economies slow.

Chinas overall urban unemployment rate is officially 5.3%, but young people have been disproportionately affected. Over the past two years, Beijing has cracked down on industries such as high tech and education that usually hire young college graduates. That led to mass layoffs and shutdowns in both sectors.

Other fields such as agriculture and construction lack enough workers, but most college graduates want less physically demanding white-collar positions. Research by online recruitment firm Zhilian Zhaopin showed a quarter of this years graduates wanted to work in the tech field.

There are job opportunities, but the job opportunities are low quality, said Xiang Biao, head of the Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology in Germany. So for the only child of a family, who received education, who grew up in a so-called time of abundance, its very difficult to embrace that kind of job.

An abundance of good jobs has been a mainstay of the social contract between the ruling party and young Chinese, Xiang said. A shortage of decent jobs undermines the Communist Partys assertion that the countrys strong economy proves Chinas political model is superior to Western democracies, he added.

Theres no evidence of significant political unrest over the unemployment problem, but late last year, protests against the governments stringent zero-COVID policies sprouted across the country in the most direct challenge to the party in over 30 years. An official report in November noted that the growing anxiety, disappointment and confusion generated by college students could shake confidence in Chinas economic future.

Resorting to the usual Communist Party exhortations to toughen up, in June President Xi Jinping urged young people to eat bitterness  or endure hardship  to create a better China. Earlier this year, the Communist Youth League urged college graduates to roll up their sleeves and take up blue-collar jobs.

CHANGING EXPECTATIONS

Instead of eating bitterness, Xiang said, full-time adult children are taking advantage of the wealth accumulated by their parents to sit out the job drought, rest up and prepare for exams for relatively stable government jobs or for postgraduate studies.

The trend also reflects changing attitudes among parents who typically would push their children to succeed financially and socially but now increasingly value their emotional well-being, especially when they see their them facing practical difficulties, said Mu Zheng, an assistant professor of sociology at the National University of Singapore.

Having acquired a degree of financial security after decades of sustained economic growth, many parents now have the wherewithal to provide more support to their grown children.

That was the case for Gui Xiaoru, who passed up the small-town teaching job she was offered after graduation because she was hoping for a better-paying position in a bigger city.

She instead moved back home to Mianyang, in southwestern Chinas Sichuan province, to study for a civil service exam. She cooks dinner for the family and goes grocery shopping. In return, she gets a 2,000 yuan (about $274) monthly allowance that allows her to focus on her studies.

Its a peaceful lifestyle, though she knows its temporary.

I think this phenomenon is normal, Gui said, but we cant keep this status going forever.

Many full-time adult children are documenting their lives and domestic duties on social media. Some take on clearly defined roles such as cleaning, cooking and running errands for fixed monthly allowances.

Wang Sinian, a 21-year-old from Bole, a city in far western Chinas Xinjiang region near its border with Kazakhstan, started working at her parents home in April after finishing her studies at a Canadian university. On the social media platform Xiaohongshu, she documented her daily duties  scrubbing the kitchen, mopping floors, ironing clothes and running errands, in exchange for pocket money.

But as is true for many of those who return home, her gig turned out to be temporary. In July, she returned to Canada to pursue a masters degree.

Marguerite Wang, the former gaming company employee, said she mostly keeps her parents company in return for pocket money.

Shes cherishing the slower pace of life and time for reflection.

I dont want to be in the same kind of work situation as before, she said, where I didnt have a private life and all my energy went into my work, but I actually didnt know what I was so busy for.

SIMINA MISTREANU, TAIPEI, MDT/AP
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un offered Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday his countrys full and unconditional support for Russias sacred fight to defend its security interests, in an apparent reference to the war in Ukraine, and said Pyongyang will always stand with Moscow on the anti-imperialist front.

Kim also called North Koreas relations with Russia the first priority.

The leaders met at a remote Siberian rocket launch facility for a summit that underscores how their interests are aligning in the face of their countries separate, intensifying confrontations with the United States.

Putin in his opening remarks welcomed Kim to Russia and said he was glad to see him. Putin listed economic cooperation, humanitarian issues and the situation in the region among the agenda items for their talks.

The two men began their meeting at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, Russias most important domestic satellite launch center, with a tour of a Soyuz-2 space rocket launch facility, at which Kim peppered a Russian space official with questions about the rockets. Kim and Putin then met together with their delegations and later one-on-one, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.

Following the tour, the two leaders headed a meeting of their delegations, and then spoke one-on-one.

The meeting came hours after North Korea fired two ballistic missiles toward the sea, extending a highly provocative run in North Korean weapons testing since the start of 2022, as Kim used the distraction caused by Putins war on Ukraine to accelerate his weapons development.

South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff didnt immediately say how far the North Korean missiles flew. Japans Coast Guard, citing Tokyos Defense Ministry, said the missiles have likely already landed but still urged vessels to watch for falling objects.

Putin welcomed Kims limousine, brought from Pyongyang in the North Korean leaders special armored train, at the entrance to the launch facility with a handshake that lasted around 40 seconds. Putin said he was very glad to see Kim. Kims translator thanked Putin for the warm welcome, despite being busy.

The decision to meet at Cosmodrome suggests that Kim is seeking Russian technical assistance for his efforts to develop military reconnaissance satellites, which he has described as crucial in enhancing the threat of his nuclear-capable missiles. In recent months, North Korea has repeatedly failed to put its first military spy satellite into orbit.

Official photos showed that Kim was accompanied by Pak Thae Song, chairman of North Koreas space science and technology committee, and navy Adm. Kim Myong Sik, who are linked with North Korean efforts to acquire spy satellites and nuclear-capable ballistic missile submarines, according to South Koreas Unification Ministry.

Asked whether Russia will help North Korea build satellites, Putin was quoted by Russian state media as saying thats why we have come here. The DPRK leader shows keen interest in rocket technology. Theyre trying to develop space, too, using the abbreviation for North Koreas formal name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. Asked about military cooperation, Putin said we will talk about all issues without a rush. There is time.

For Putin, the meeting with Kim is an opportunity to refill ammunition stores that the 18-month-old war has drained. North Korea may have tens of millions of aging artillery shells and rockets based on Soviet designs that could give a huge boost to the Russian army in Ukraine, analysts say.

Kim also brought Jo Chun Ryong, a ruling party official in charge of munitions policies who joined him on recent tours of factories producing artillery shells and missile, according to South Korea.

Kim said his decision to visit Russia four years after his previous visit showed how Pyongyang is prioritizing the strategic importance of its relations with Moscow, North Koreas official news agency said yesterday.

Kim is expected to seek economic aid as well as military technology. Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko said Russia may discuss humanitarian aid with the North Korean delegation, according to Russian news agencies.

An arms deal would violate international sanctions that Russia supported in the past.

Lim Soo-suk, South Koreas Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said Seoul was maintaining communication with Moscow while closely monitoring Kims visit.

No U.N. member state should violate Security Council sanctions against North Korea by engaging in an illegal trade of arms, and must certainly not engage in military cooperation with North Korea that undermines the peace and stability of the international community, Lim said at a briefing.

The United States has accused North Korea of providing Russia with arms, including selling artillery shells to the Russian mercenary group Wagner. Both Russian and North Korean officials denied such claims.

Speculation about military cooperation grew after Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu visited North Korea in July. Kim subsequently toured his weapons factories, which experts said had the dual goal of encouraging the modernization of North Korean weaponry and examining artillery and other supplies that could be exported to Russia. KIM TONG-HYUNG & DASHA LITVINOVA , SEOUL, MDT/AP
The Macau governments contracts with the six gaming concessionaires stipulated that an additional 20% of its pledge in the non-gaming investment will be required if gaming revenues recover to MOP180 billion this year.

Secretary for Economy and Finance Lei Wai Nong disclosed the information to the press, noting that authorities have indicators, requirements, accounting and review mechanisms every year.

All six gaming operators have disclosed such information via filings to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange back in December, last year.

Following winning licenses to operate late last year, and under the citys biggest gaming law overhaul, the six casino operators agreed to invest a total of MOP118.8 billion after being granted 10-year operating licenses, with the bulk of the money pledged to non-gaming projects.

A total of MOP108.7 billion  more than 90% of their total investment  was pledged to be spent on exploring overseas customer markets and developing non-gaming projects.

The citys casino recovery is sustaining its momentum, with gaming revenue in August soaring a staggering 686% to MOP17.2 billion from a year earlier to the highest level since January 2020.

Up until August, gaming revenues had already soared to MOP114 billion, suggesting that the city can accumulate MOP130 billion for this year, a figure initially forecasted by the government.

Meanwhile, a report released by Citi Research shows that gross gaming revenues for the first 10 days of September approximated MOP4.3 billion, implying a daily run-rate of MOP430 million.

There are still a few months left in this year, and we will not evaluate the annual gaming revenue for the time being, Lei told the press, as cited in a Macao Daily News report.

We are currently taking one step at a time and doing a solid job in related work. The [gaming operators] made a commitment to the SAR government, [to] invest in accordance with the commitments and requirements of the contract, he added.

Both Melco and MGM recently said they are financially ready to further invest in the market.

Moreover, the big six are also expected to contribute to urban renovations of historic neighborhoods and landmarks, and the organization of arts events in each area, of which the revitalization of Rua da Felicidade and Barra are now underway.
A man has been apprehended for strangling a woman friend and stealing two mobile phones, the Judiciary Police (PJ) has reported.

He was charged with the robbery.

According to the police, the man is from mainland China and reported to be unemployed. His surname is Liu, aged 37. The woman victim is a local resident, aged 39.

The police were told that they are just friends.

On the evening of Sept. 11, the man visited the womans home in the Northern district for dinner. The man was traveling in Macau.

The man was said to have consumed a lot of alcoholic drinks during dinner. Afterwards, the two argued about who should do the dishes. During the argument, Liu picked up a mobile phone cable and strangled the woman with it. While struggling against the attack, the woman managed to reach her phone and tried to call the police. Seeing this, Liu took both of the womans phones and fled the scene. The woman, meanwhile, contacted the police. She reported a loss of MOP18,000. AL
Pope Francis Ukraine peace envoy, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, is heading to China on the fourth leg of a mission that has already brought him to Kyiv, Moscow and Washington, the Vatican said yesterday [Macau time].

The main aim of the shuttle diplomacy is to help return Ukrainian children taken to Russia after the invasion.

Zuppi, accompanied by an official from the Vatican secretariat of state, will be in Beijing from Wednesday to Friday. The Vatican described the visit as a further step in the mission desired by the pope to support humanitarian initiatives and the search for paths that can bring about a just peace.

Francis tapped Zuppi, a veteran of the Catholic Churchs peace diplomacy, in May as his envoy, aiming to initiate paths of peace. Over time, Zuppis mission has concentrated on the humanitarian front and in particular in trying to establish a mechanism to help Ukrainian children who were moved to Russia following the invasion which began in Feb. 2022.

The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant in late March for Russias minister for childrens rights, Maria Lvova-Belova, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing them of abducting children from Ukraine. Russian officials have denied any forced adoptions, saying some Ukrainian children are in foster care.

No details of Zuppis work have emerged, though Francis has said he imagined the Vatican could play a role as it has in some prisoner swaps. Zuppi has met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Lvova-Belova and other top advisers to Putin, and President Joe Biden.

The hope is to push and weave the difficult web of peace, Zuppi told the broadcaster of the Italian bishops conference, which he heads, before leaving.

Recently, Francis made a strong public overture to China while visiting neighboring Mongolia, again voicing his esteem for the Chinese people and hopes for constructive dialogue on church matters with Beijing. He also has won praise from Russia for recent comments extolling Great Mother Russia  comments that angered Ukraine and its Greek Catholic bishops. MDT/AP
The Health Bureau has held a fourth briefing targeting local resort operators regarding the edible alcohol law. At the briefing, bureau representatives explained the definition of different terms in the law, as well as restrictions on the sale, provision and consumption of alcoholic beverages. Details such as preventing youths from obtaining alcoholic drinks, the responsibilities of venues and the labeling of drinks, were also covered. Operators expressed their concerns about serving drinks at buffets, warning statements on menus, room service, in-room minibars and major events, among other topics.

Related
PENNSYLVANIA | PRISON ESCAPE

POTTSTOWN, Pa.  A murderer who escaped from a Pennsylvania jail was captured Wednesday in the woods by a team of tactical officers, bringing an end to an intensive search that terrified residents as the fugitive broke into homes for food, changed his appearance, and stole a van and rifle during two weeks on the run.

Law enforcement's big break came overnight as a plane fitted with a thermal imaging camera picked up Danelo Souza Cavalcante's heat signal, allowing teams on the ground to secure the area, surround him and move in with search dogs.

"They were able to move in very quietly. They had the element of surprise," Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens said at a news conference. "Cavalcante did not realize he was surrounded until that had occurred."

Cavalcante  still armed with the rifle he stole from a garage  tried to escape by crawling through underbrush. But a search dog sub dued him, said Bivens, adding that Cavalcante continued to resist as he was taken into custody after 8 a.m.

Cavalcante, 34, was bitten on the scalp and suffered a minor wound, Bivens said. Aerial news footage showed an officer wiping Cavalcante's bloody head and face with a towel.

No shots were fired.

"Our nightmare is finally over, and the good guys won," said Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan.

State police announced Cavalcante's capture on social media earlier Wednesday.

He was taken to a nearby state police barracks in an armored vehicle surrounded by a dozen vehicle convoy with lights flashing and sirens blaring as it traveled down the highway. Two police helicopters followed above.

Cavalcante was arraigned at the Avondale barracks on an escape charge, according to the office of Judge Matthew Seavey. A preliminary hearing was scheduled for Sept. 27. He was led out with his hands and bare feet shackled, wearing what appeared to be a hospital gown. Cavalcante was to be driven to a state prison to continue serving the life sentence he received last month for killing his ex-girlfriend.
As your individual health needs change with age, Cantata Adult Life Services stands ready to accommodate with appealing amenities and thoughtful, caring service.

A Brookfield community fixture for more than 100 years, the not-for-profit Cantata campus offers a range of living options set within the quiet privacy of a scenic 10-acre forested preserve, yet remains readily accessible to the greater Chicago area.

With Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Support, Skilled Rehab and Long-Term Care, we are here to help our residents navigate the progression of their entire life journey, whatever it looks like and whatever they need, said Cantatas resident services director Lesya Shoorgot.

Residents can choose where to enter the Cantata system with the ability to transition between levels of care as their health and preferences evolve. The Independent Living apartments provide residents with a sense of freedom and opportunities for socialization with friends and neighbors.

Its a great environment to start your retirement in, Shoorgot said. Caregiving support is available for an additional fee at the Independent Living level. Later, if your care requirements start to change, our Assisted Living approach is unique in that you can still maximize your independence in your own apartment with assistance available only as much as you need it.

Assisted Living residents can choose from private one or two bedroom apartment options and remain free to set their own daily schedules and leave the campus at will.

When you do need help with bathing, dressing or medications, were there at the touch of a button, Shoorgot said. Theres no caregiver in the room with you all day long. Our residents are able to maintain their privacy but still have immediate access to additional care whenever they want it.

Between Independent Living and Assisted Living, Cantata manages 150 apartments on the property with changing availability and serves meals in restaurant-style dining rooms.

All of our food is made fresh in-house daily  soups and starters, two entrees and a dessert, Shoorgot said. Many of our residents love the fact that they dont have to worry about cleaning up or doing the dishes after they eat!

A variety of life-enrichment programs  including games, movie screenings, craft activities, music, shopping trips, restaurant visits and religious services  create a full, well-rounded experience for Cantata residents.

Our most popular activity is an instructor-led exercise class each morning after breakfast, Shoorgot said. Our local library leads a book club here, and we have local high school students visit to do activities with our residents as well. Its always fun to see the different generations coming together and having a good time.

A dedicated staff of employees who truly care about the residents they serve are one of the reasons for Cantatas longevity. Some have been with the organization for as long as 25 years.

We have a real passion for the work we do, our residents and their families, Shoorgot said. Weve been around long enough to become experts in the industry. The aging process isnt one-size-fits-all; its unique and different for each person. Were here to help every step of the way.

Through an approach that considers outlook, purpose, balance and vitality, the Cantata Best Life Foundation supports the well-being of its residents with fundraising and advocacy. For more information, visit cantata.org/assisted-living.

This content was produced by Brand Ave. Studios. The news and editorial departments had no role in its creation or display. Brand Ave. Studios connects advertisers with a targeted audience through compelling content programs, from concept to production and distribution. For more information contact sales@brandavestudios.com.
A year after UW Health and its nurses reached an agreement to avert a strike, while continuing to ask the courts if UW Health can recognize a revived nurses union, nurses said Thursday that UW Health has not lived up to the spirit of the agreement.

Wage caps and understaffing persist, despite a meet and discuss process negotiated last September with help from Gov. Tony Evers, nurses said in a statement from SEIU Wisconsin, which has sought to represent them again in collective bargaining.

Were so extremely understaffed in the operating room that some nurses have to work 16-hour shifts or 14 days in a row, and exhausted nurses are obviously not ideal for safe surgeries, especially in a Level 1 Trauma Center, nurse Mary Jorgensen said.

UW Health spokesperson Emily Greendonner said the organization has added 250 frontline nurses and its nurse turnover rate has dropped.

Our strong recruitment and retention numbers indicate that not only do nurses want to come here for work, but they are more likely to stay, Greendonner said in a statement.

The agreement last year has allowed us to share ideas for improvement while we await a definitive answer to the outstanding legal questions on whether we can recognize and collectively bargain with a union, she said.

UW Health stopped recognizing the nurses union in 2014 when the last contract ended. Nurses revived the union starting in 2019, but UW Health refused to recognize it. Administrators said Act 10  former Gov. Scott Walkers 2011 state law that banned most collective bargaining for most public employees  prohibited the hospital from engaging in collective bargaining.

In November, the Wisconsin Employment Relations Commission said UW Health didnt have to recognize the union because Act 10 stripped specific references to UW Hospital from the 1939 Wisconsin Employment Peace Act, which governs unions for private sector workers.

The WERC ruling didnt say if UW Health could voluntarily recognize the union. SEIU Healthcare Wisconsin appealed in Dane County Circuit Court, arguing that UW Health still meets the definition of an employer under the Peace Act. UW Health petitioned the state Supreme Court for an expedited decision, but the high court in February declined to hear the petition.

A National Labor Relations Board official in August said SEIU Healthcare Wisconsin cant pursue a union election because UW Hospital is a state entity that doesnt fall under the boards jurisdiction.

SEIU said Thursday that nurses are speaking out for the first time since the agreement last September because longtime nurses are leaving in droves due to unjust wage caps, leading to a drain of experience, skills and institutional knowledge.

Nurses called for a transparent pay scale that rewards all nurses fairly  especially veteran nurses, saying such an arrangement exists at Meriter Hospital, where nurses are officially represented by SEIU Healthcare Wisconsin.

Matt Delaney, who became a registered nurse at UW Health more than a year ago, said the departure of many experienced nurses means new nurses like me have fewer mentors to learn from. ... By undervaluing veteran nurses, UW Health is hemorrhaging staff and violating their own proclaimed mission of advancing health without compromise.

Greendonner said U.S. News and World Report in August ranked UW Hospital as No. 1 in Wisconsin for the 12th year in a row, and UW Health was recognized again for excellence in nursing.

The agreement with SEIU last year removed the threat of a strike or work action while also providing an avenue for either party to arbitrate disagreements on compliance with the agreement through WERC, she said.
VENICE, Italy  Venice on Thursday again escaped the tarnish of UNESCO's list of world heritage sites in danger, drawing a victory cheer from the mayor but scorn from environmentalists and scientists alarmed by the impact of mass tourism and climate change on the storied lagoon city.

At a meeting in Saudi Arabia, member states disregarded expert findings that Venice's outstanding universal value was under a growing and increasingly urgent threat. Instead, they praised the city's conservation efforts, in particular a last-minute pilot project approved two days ago that will make Venice the first city to charge entry.

Venice similarly avoided joining the list of sites in danger two years ago after the Rome government announced a ban on big cruise ships past St. Marks Square and through the Giudecca canal.

Mayor Luigi Brugnaro welcomed the decision as proof that Venice is not at risk, calling the experts recommendations misleading.

Civic groups, however, continue to emphasize the threat to Venice from mass tourism, which they say is transforming the city into a mere destination, depriving it of lifeblood as a thriving center that would attract both residents and new businesses.

The much-ballyhooed pilot project, charging $5.30 to day-trippers on 30 high-traffic days next year, only reinforces a low-brow image of Venice, they said.

When you see how beautiful Venice is, what an incredible lifestyle the city can offer, when mass tourism isnt killing it, you realize that Venice is to some extent wasted on short-term visitors, said Jane Da Mosto, executive director of the NGO We Are Here Venice. Venice is a place where more people should be able to live and create more lives and families and jobs and exciting work opportunities.

Expressing disappointment in UNESCO's decision, Da Mosto said the language used by some of the delegates made me think they might be using material provided by Italian diplomatic channels."

I really hope UNESCO will do something courageous to restore our hope in the convention governing world heritage sites, she said.

The Union of Concerned Scientists said the decision signals an alarming trend of nations not being held accountable for protecting some of the most iconic and irreplaceable natural and historic sites around the globe. It noted that Venice is increasingly vulnerable to severe flooding and water damage.

The city's 6-billion-euro underwater barriers, cited by several member states as evidence of Venices commitment to preservation, have been employed since severe flooding in 2019 to protect the city from the most serious flooding. But the project has been riven by corruption, cost overruns and long delays, and is not yet fully complete  a lapse noted by the experts.

As the UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting loomed, housing activists in Venice this weekend announced that the number of tourist beds had officially surpassed the number of residents: 49,693 to 49,304.

That imbalance drains the city of services and clogs the citys tight alleyways and water buses with suitcase-laden tourists, pushing more Venetians to move to the mainland, a trend that dates back decades.

Too much tourism is just a threat for our city,'' said Remi Wacogne, an activist with the OCIO civic observatory on housing. All sorts of measures should be taken, starting with regulating short-term rentals, which are responsible for most of the increase in tourist beds."

Venice officials, however, have failed to limit short-term rentals, despite being the only city in Italy allowed to do so under a special statute.

The UNESCO World Heritage Committee recommended Venice for the list of sites in danger, citing the negative impact of mass tourism, damage to the lagoon by large ships and oil tankers entering via the Malamocco canal, and climate change leading to more frequent high tides, as well as uncoordinated development.

After the decision, the committee reiterated its concerns, and underlined that further progress still needs to be made for proper conservation of Venice and its lagoon.

Italy has until December 2024 to present a detailed plan, which will be discussed at the World Heritage Committee meeting in 2025.

UNESCO officials have emphasized that a downgrade is not meant to be punitive, but to alert the world community that more needs to be done to address issues plaguing a World Heritage site.

Venice's top budget official, Michele Zuin, was defiant heading into the vote, saying Venice wanted to avoid the endangered list. But it is not as if we are slaves of UNESCO.
Planned Parenthood will resume offering abortion services in Wisconsin on Monday after a Dane County judge ruled in early July that the 1849 law widely interpreted as a near-complete abortion ban doesnt apply to abortions at all.

The move marks a massive win for liberals and abortion rights supporters, 15 months after the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that overturned Roe v. Wade led to the immediate shuttering of abortion services statewide.

The organizations announcement comes as Dane County Judge Diane Schlipper appears slated to issue an order in the coming weeks prohibiting prosecutors from going after abortion providers under the 1849 law. That lawsuit may eventually be decided in the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin is confident in our decision to resume abortion care in Wisconsin, Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin president Tanya Atkinson said in a video posted Thursday. Abortion is health care, and the people of Wisconsin have been without this critical health care since Roe was overturned.

The organization will resume its abortion services in Madison and Milwaukee on Monday, but not in its Sheboygan clinic until the organization can address staffing and logistics issues, likely in the coming weeks.

The Planned Parenthood clinics will operate under Wisconsin laws that ban abortions 20 weeks after probable fertilization. Women seeking abortions would have to first take an ultrasound, have a counseling period and wait a full day before the procedure. For pill abortions, patients would have to schedule two visits with the same physician  one for a counseling appointment and one to get the pills. Laws prohibit telehealth visits and mailing the abortion pill to the patient.

While this is an important first step on the path, there is a long pathway ahead to protect abortion for the long term and to really expand access and remove unnecessary barriers, Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin Legal Director Michelle Velasquez said.

Spokespeople for the organization said appointments would be immediately available but that it wasnt clear how long the wait times would be.

This is critically important news for Wisconsin women and patients across our state, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers said.

Anti-abortion advocates were incensed by the announcement, which came before any court issued an injunction preventing prosecutors from enforcing the 1849 law for abortions.

The action on the part of Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin today is presumptuous, said Julaine Appling, director of the anti-abortion group Wisconsin Family Action. Because there has been no court action putting an injunction on the enforceability of the law, theres been no legislative action revoking the law, that law is enforceable.

Its tragic, Appling said about the resumption of abortion services in Wisconsin. During the time that this law has been respected, weve calculated that there have been thousands and thousands of babies saved.

Appling said shell consider intervening in the current lawsuit as it moves through the courts.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, said he will pray tonight for all the unborn children who will no longer have the opportunity to be born because of the decisions that politicians are making.

Restoring access

Planned Parenthood attorneys as well as other abortion advocates told the Wisconsin State Journal in July that abortion services were likely just a couple months away from resuming, given Schlippers earlier ruling.

Lexy Ware, call-line coordinator for POWERS, a Madison group that helps women access abortions, said the resumption of abortions in the state will remove an undue burden on residents.

Its going to make it much easier for people, not having to travel out of state anymore, said Ware, whose group is called Pregnancy Options Wisconsin: Education, Resources and Support.

But she noted that Wisconsin still has numerous abortion restrictions, including a 24-hour waiting period, a required ultrasound before an abortion, a ban on telemedicine delivery of medication abortions and a ban on abortions for minors without parental consent unless the minor receives a court-issued waiver.

We go back to some of the same problems we faced before, Ware said. Its not like Wisconsin ever had the best laws in place when it came to women and pregnant people needing abortions.

Jeanne Bissell, president of the Rockford Family Planning Foundation, lauded Planned Parenthoods decision to offer abortions again in Wisconsin. But she said it doesnt change the foundations plan to open a clinic providing surgical and medication abortions, and other care, soon in Rockford, Illinois.

The plan materialized in response to the suspension of abortions in Wisconsin 15 months ago. Another Rockford clinic, which offers only medication abortions, opened in January.

The more access, the better, said Bissell, of Fitchburg. We want to continue to improve and increase access to comprehensive reproductive care, including abortion care, throughout the Midwest.

What Planned Parenthood's announcement means For 15 months, since the U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade, abortion has been unavailable in Wisconsin in the vast majority of cases

In early July, a Dane County judge ruled that the 1849 law widely interpreted as a near-complete abortion ban didn't, in fact, apply to abortions at all

Given that ruling, Planned Parenthood announced it would resume its Wisconsin abortion services beginning Sept. 18

That will mark the first time abortion will be widely available in Wisconsin since June 2022

Lawsuit ongoing

The Planned Parenthood decision comes about 15 months after Attorney General Josh Kaul filed a lawsuit in Dane County Circuit Court alleging the 1849 ban wasnt applicable to abortions because later bans conflicted with the earlier one.

Separately, physicians who intervened as plaintiffs in the lawsuit alleged that a Wisconsin Supreme Court case already made clear that the 1849 law applied to feticide, not abortion.

The defendants in the ongoing lawsuit are the prosecutors in the counties where abortion was widely available before the decision overturning Roe: Sheboygan County District Attorney Joel Urmanski, Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne and Milwaukee County District Attorney John Chisholm.

Urmanski sought to dismiss the lawsuit earlier this year, saying the plaintiffs lacked standing in the case.

Beyond rejecting Urmanskis motion to dismiss the case, Schlipper in her July ruling repeatedly referred to the 1994 Wisconsin Supreme Court ruling that found the 1849 law applies only to feticide, not abortion.

There is no such thing as an 1849 Abortion Ban in Wisconsin, Schlipper stated in that ruling.

She also referred to a dictionary that defines feticide as killing a fetus usually by assaulting and battering the mother, which she said is different from the technical definition of abortion.

The meaning of feticide is not ambiguous  (the 1849 law) does not prohibit a consensual medical abortion, she said.

Kaul since sought a final ruling to decide whether the 1849 law can apply to abortions. That ruling, which is widely expected to prohibit prosecutors from going after abortion providers under the 1849 law, could come in the next several weeks.

State Journal reporter David Wahlberg contributed to this report.

The Supreme Court fight over an abortion pill: What's next? Intro What is mifepristone? How did the case get started? How did the case get to the Supreme Court? What could happen next? A closer look
Senate Republicans blatantly ignored Wisconsin law when they voted Thursday to oust Wisconsins top election official despite widespread disagreement over whether the matter was legally before the Legislature, Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul argued in a lawsuit against state GOP leaders.

The Senate on Thursday voted 22-11, along party lines, to reject an appointment nomination for Wisconsin Elections Commission Administrator Meagan Wolfe, in an effort to remove her from the position she has held since 2018. Kaul said Wolfes appointment is not properly before the chamber.

Speaking with reporters after the vote, Kaul said the Senates vote has no legal effect. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of the commission and Wolfe, the agencys nonpartisan administrator, against Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, Senate President Chris Kapenga, R-Delafield, and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester.

This is not a close question under Wisconsin law, Kaul said. While the Senate has purported to take a vote on the appointment of Meagan Wolfe, there is in fact no appointment.

The lawsuit seeks declaratory judgment affirming that Wolfe remains the commissions administrator. Kaul said he expects the matter to be concluded well before the 2024 presidential election. The lawsuit could make its way to the Wisconsin Supreme Court, which last month shifted to a liberal majority for the first time in more than a decade.

Speaking with reporters, Wolfe said the vote to remove her from office was taken by lawmakers who embraced unfounded rumors about my leadership, my role on the commission and our system of elections.

My position as administrator is of course subject to removal by a majority vote of the commission at any time, Wolfe said. In the meantime, unless a final determination of a court says otherwise, I will continue to serve as the administrator of the WEC.

The 2024 election cycle begins in less than three months, Wolfe continued. There is such important work ahead, and my hope is that we will quickly get the clarity that we need from the courts.

Wolfe added that she will accept the courts final determination.

GOP scrutiny

Wolfe has been the subject of scrutiny from legislative Republicans since the commission made changes to certain procedures in the 2020 general election in response to the COVID-19 pandemic  changes that have spurred some conservatives to falsely accuse her of malfeasance.

Speaking with reporters ahead of the Senates vote, Vos said having a new elections administrator, who doesnt have all the baggage of the last election cycle and decisions that were made, would be better for democracy.

I think if Meagan Wolfe stays there, it will be even more problematic for people to believe whatever occurs in 2024 is fair, Vos continued. So for the good of the system, I think that we need to say that in any job, there is always more than one qualified person who could do it.

LeMahieu said the vote to reject Wolfes nomination represents the lack of faith among some in Wisconsins elections, due in part to actions taken by Wolfe and the bipartisan commission.

We need to rebuild the faith in Wisconsins elections, LeMahieu said.

LeMahieu walked away without responding when asked about the lawsuit Thursday.

Wisconsin Republicans attempt to illegally fire Wisconsins elections administrator without cause today shows they are continuing to escalate efforts to sow distrust and disinformation about our elections, denigrate our clerks, poll workers, and election administrators, and undermine basic tenets of our democracy, including the peaceful transfer of power, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers said in a statement.

Some of Wolfes most vocal critics, including 2020 GOP gubernatorial candidate and former state Rep. Tim Ramthun, attended Thursdays session. After the vote, many broke into applause from the chambers second floor gallery.

Much of the GOPs criticism over the states 2020 election has been fueled by former President Donald Trump, who continues to make baseless claims of widespread fraud in the 2020 vote. A recount, court decisions and multiple reviews have affirmed that President Joe Biden defeated Trump in Wisconsin by almost 21,000 votes.

Senate vote

Much of the Senates discussion Thursday focused on the legality of the vote itself, with Democratic lawmakers pointing to legal opinions from Kaul and nonpartisan attorneys, who have said there is no formal nomination before the Senate.

The Senate cannot simply manufacture a nomination that does not exist, said Sen. Mark Spreitzer, D-Beloit.

The Wisconsin Elections Commission in June deadlocked on a vote to reappoint Wolfe in a bid by Democratic commissioners to block her nomination from reaching the Senate. The three Republican members of the bipartisan commission voted to nominate her, and the three Democratic members abstained.

Senate Republicans have argued that the deadlocked vote actually constituted a majority since the three commissioners who cast votes voted in favor of appointing her.

However, in an email sent to a group of local Republican leaders and posted on the messaging app Telegram, LeMahieu said if WEC doesnt reappoint Wolfe or a replacement, the senate would have no power to get rid of her through the normal confirmation process.

LeMahieus email referenced the 2022 Supreme Court decision that allowed an appointee of former Republican Gov. Scott Walker to serve on the Department of Natural Resources board long after his term had expired until the Senate confirmed his Democratic successor.

Legal memo

An August memo from Wisconsin Legislative Council attorneys Katie Bender-Olson and Peggy Hurley states that most commission actions, including the appointment of the agencys administrator, must be affirmed with at least four votes, or a majority of all members.

While state law at times refers to members present and voting in some statutory provisions, that language is not included in a statute pertaining to an administrative appointment, the memo continues.

In the lawsuit, DOJ argues Wolfe is lawfully holding over as the agencys administrator.

Absent a statute prohibiting holdover, an incumbent may lawfully hold over and continue to fulfill their duties, the lawsuit states. No statute prohibits the administrator from holding over.

Senate Republicans in June introduced a resolution declaring that Wolfe has been nominated for reappointment by the bipartisan elections commission. The Senate elections committee on Monday voted 3-1, with one Democratic abstention, against recommending Wolfes reappointment.

Wolfe was appointed to her role by the commission in February 2018. She was unanimously confirmed by the Senate in May 2019.
The Republican-led Wisconsin Senate is slated to take up a vote Thursday that could effectively fire Wisconsin's top election official, despite widespread disagreement over whether such an appointment is even legally before the Legislature.

The Senate's vote to potentially oust Wisconsin Elections Commission administrator Meagan Wolfe is almost certain to end up in court leading up to the 2024 presidential election.

Wolfe has become the subject of scrutiny from legislative Republicans since the commission made changes to certain elections procedures in the 2020 general election in response to the COVID-19 pandemic  changes that have spurred some conservatives to falsely accuse her of malfeasance. Wolfe's supporters argue Republicans are acting on a dubious interpretation of the status of Wolfe's appointment, which has not been passed by the bipartisan elections commission, according to legal interpretations from nonpartisan attorneys.

The Senate elections committee on Monday voted 3-1, with one Democratic abstention, against recommending Wolfe's reappointment. The vote follows a Senate resolution in June declaring that Wolfe has been nominated for reappointment by the bipartisan elections commission, even though the commission failed to provide the four votes that Democrats and nonpartisan attorneys say are required for Wolfe's nomination to be official.

The commission deadlocked on a vote to reappoint Wolfe in a bid by Democratic commissioners to block her nomination from reaching the Senate. The three Republican members of the bipartisan commission voted to nominate her and the three Democratic members abstained.

Senate Republicans have argued that the deadlocked vote actually constituted a majority since the three commissioners who cast votes voted in favor of appointing her.

An August memo from Wisconsin Legislative Council attorneys Katie Bender-Olson and Peggy Hurley states that most commission actions, including the appointment of the agency's administrator, must be affirmed with at least four votes.

"Based on the statutory text and conventions of statutory interpretation in Wisconsin, the best interpretation of state law is that appointment of a WEC administrator requires four votes of the commission," the memo states. "This is because the provision relating directly to the appointment of an administrator refers to a 'majority of the members of the commission,' and not to a majority of those voting, and because actions of the commission generally require a two-thirds vote."

While state law at times refers to members "present and voting" in some statutory provisions, that language is not included in a statute pertaining to an administrative appointment, the memo continues.

Separately, in a letter to Wisconsin Legislative Council Director Anne Sappenfield, Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul wrote that the commission's deadlocked vote in June means "there is no WEC administrator appointment before the Senate."

"This is not a close question under state law," Kaul said, adding that the state Department of Justice is representing Wolfe in the matter.

Kaul reiterated his comments on Monday, adding that the Senate should avoid firing Wolfe and "causing more needless uncertainty about election administration in Wisconsin."

Wolfe was appointed to her role by the commission in February 2018. She was unanimously confirmed by the Senate in May 2019.

Elections 101: Video series explains how elections are carried out in Wisconsin The Wisconsin Elections Commission put together the following series of instructional videos and accompanying lesson plans for use in high school civics classes and the general public. Elections overview An overview of elections administration in Wisconsin. Voting Security Let's take a look at how we maintain security and integrity with all of our elections. Nuts and bolts The ins-and-outs of voter processes like registering to vote and requesting a ballot to vote absentee. A Day at the Polls See what it is like to go to the polls and vote.
SEOUL, South Korea  North Korea's Kim Jong Un rolled through Russia on an armored train Tuesday toward a meeting with President Vladimir Putin, a rare encounter between isolated leaders driven together by their need for support in escalating standoffs with the West.

Kim is expected to seek economic aid and military technology for his impoverished country, and, in a twist, appears to have something Putin desperately needs: munitions for Russia's grueling war in Ukraine.

It's a chance for the North Korean leader to get around crippling U.N. sanctions and years of diplomatic isolation. For Putin, it's an opportunity to refill ammunition stores that the war has drained.

Any arms deal with North Korea would violate the sanctions, which Russia supported in the past.

Kim's personal train stopped in Khasan, a station on the Russia-North Korea border, early Tuesday where it was met by a military honor guard and a brass band.

The Korean Central News Agency said Kim then left for his destination, but it didn't specify where.
The state Assembly leader and the governor need to take a deep breath and slow down so an agreement on fair voting maps can actually get done.

Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, surprised Wisconsin on Tuesday by announcing he will now support the Iowa model for nonpartisan redistricting  something he has adamantly opposed in the past so he could gerrymander.

Better late than even later.

Even if Vos and most of his Republican colleagues are embracing this longstanding good government proposal for political reasons, that doesnt mean Democrats should reflexively abandon it now. Democrats have been demanding the Iowa model for more than a decade  especially since losing power and feeling the brunt of voting district lines being surgically drawn by the GOP to hurt them.

Vos wouldnt be agreeing to this, we suspect, unless he thought fair maps under the Iowa model were the best he could hope for. Vos fears a new liberal majority on the state Supreme Court might strike down his gerrymandered maps and draw new ones to his partys disadvantage. He is so worried that he wildly threatened to impeach incoming Justice Janet Protasiewicz before she even heard a case.

Iowa model still the best fix for fair maps OUR VIEW: With high court declining to help, it's up to voters to end gerrymandering

Reality seems to be sinking in that Vos cant pull off impeachment  legally or politically. So touting nonpartisan redistricting may be his best fallback plan.

Unfortunately, Vos just sprung the Iowa bill on Democrats, trying to claim it as his own and perhaps hide wording that undermines the proposal and doesnt belong. Hes even scheduled an Assembly vote for today  just 48 hours later. Thats not how you build bipartisan support for important and complicated legislation, which Vos knows well. Nor is it fair to the public, which deserves some time to review the plan, learn more about its provisions and attend a public hearing.

The Assembly definitely should not vote on this bill today. Rushing it to the floor so abruptly only breeds suspicion.

Maybe thats what Vos wants  and is getting  because Democrats including Gov. Tony Evers instantly rejected the bill out of hand, which is disappointing. The governor should keep an open mind, especially with Vos saying hes willing to negotiate specifics.

Vos and the Democrats may be thinking the same thing  that the Democrats could be better off strategically if the liberal-leaning high court draws the lines than if a nonpartisan state agency does. But that wont put an end to the partisan games over redistricting. Democrats could lose their liberal court majority and again find themselves wishing they had acted on the Iowa model when they had the chance.

Under the Iowa model, the nonpartisan Wisconsin Legislative Reference Bureau must be strictly nonpartisan. According to the agencys analysis of the Republican-sponsored bill, No district may be drawn for the purpose of favoring a political party, incumbent legislator, or other person or group. The LRB may not use residence addresses of incumbent legislators, political affiliations of registered voters, previous election results or demographic information to augment or dilute the voting strength of a language or racial minority group, unless required by the federal Voting Rights Act.

All that sounds great  and much better than in the past when one party or the other got to draw the lines to its favor.

The Republican proposal for nonpartisan redistricting is largely the same as that in Iowa, according to the LRB, but with some exceptions.

Those exceptions need more than two days to digest and consider. That wording must be fleshed out at a public hearing. So should a change sought by Common Cause in Wisconsin, a good government group, to help ensure the party in power doesnt abandon a nonpartisan process.

The merits of the Iowa model shouldnt be rejected because of haste or hypocrisy from either political party. The people of Wisconsin deserve fair maps, and large majorities of voters in advisory referendums across the state have called for a nonpartisan process. Their representatives at the statehouse should pause, schedule a hearing for a few weeks out, then negotiate if necessary and finally get this done.

Wisconsin State Journal editorial board The views expressed in the editorials are shaped by the board, independent of news coverage decisions elsewhere in the newspaper. STAFF MEMBERS KELLY LECKER, Executive editor SCOTT MILFRED, Editorial page editor PHIL HANDS, Editorial cartoonist COMMUNITY MEMBERS JAMES L. HOWARD JENNY PRICE
The man was the only passenger in a 2016 Nissan Versa traveling southbound on North 5000 East when it was struck by a 2009 Dodge Journey traveling westbound on U.S. Highway 30 at about 4:50 a.m., police said. He was not wearing a seatbelt and died at the scene.
Four years ago, Twin Falls County Sheriff Tom Carter told county commissioners that the situation at the jail wasnt good.

If we dont do something in that facility, its a powder keg, gentleman, Carter warned.

The reason? Overcrowding.

And a potentially explosive situation remains.

Through the last several years, the jail has been housing about 300 inmates in 254 beds.

Inmates without a bed sleep in plastic boats that hold a mattress. Its a less-than-ideal situation, however, it keeps inmates off the floor.

In addition, the county has moved some inmates to other county jails, but finding room can be difficult and expensive.

The problem is obvious, Twin Falls County Prosecuting Attorney Grant Loebs said.

You have too many people committing crimes and too small a jail, Loebs said.

And even though finding available space in the jail or surrounding jails can be tricky, he said inmates who pose threats to society arent going to be given a free pass.

With the overcrowding comes accompanying concerns of staff and inmate safety.

A former inmate, who had spent a day locked up on two separate occasions, told the Times-News he was once assigned to a cell that housed 29 inmates  although it was originally meant for just 12. The 29 inmates shared a single toilet.

Sheriffs Lt. Chris Hogan couldnt verify that figure but confirmed that, at times, cells have been at double capacity.

Hogan and jail administer Capt. Doug Hughes said they understand the tensions overcrowding brings to inmates, along with potential dangers for jailers.

Its a tough situation on both sides of the fence, Hughes said. Everybody likes their personal space. it doesnt matter whether you are in jail or not.

Inmates cant be assigned to cellblocks in a haphazard way. Care must be taken to put inmates with similar classifications together.

You certainly wouldnt want to put someone accused of a low-class felony with an actual violent felon, Hughes said.

Those requirements create additional pressure to find extra room for inmates.

Finding a solution

When the sheriff spoke to county commissioners in 2019, a $25 million bond issue to pay for a 300-bed jail expansion at what was then the juvenile detention facility on Wright Avenue was in the works.

The bond issue failed, securing 58% of the vote but falling short of the needed two-thirds supermajority, although some of the basics of that plan have either been completed or remain in play. Juveniles who run afoul of the law are now housed at Twin Falls County West and that has left an empty facility on Wright Avenue that commissioners are still eyeing as a possible second site to house adult inmates.

Dont expect anything to happen overnight. County commissioners are in the process of hiring an architect that would give them a master plan for the expansion, Commission Chair Don Hall said.

This will help us develop that timeline with the funds that we have available for that expansion, Hall said.

The initial plan would be to create a facility with 150 beds, with the potential to allow for further expansion. The Wright Avenue building would require renovation due to different security requirements regarding housing adults compared to juveniles and additional construction at the site would allow for more beds.

And there is the issue of how to pay for it.

Commissioners previously allotted some $30 million  $20 million that was saved up plus $10 million of COVID money  for expanding the county judicial building along Shoshone Avenue North. For the jail, County Commissioner Jack Johnson said the commission hoped to find more money from the countys contingency fund, combined with federal funds, to assist with completing the first phase.

Commissioners arent looking to pass a bond, saying taxpayers are already struggling with high taxes.

Johnson likened a bond proposal to a worst-case scenario.

And, although having two jail sites in the same county might present a few obstacles of its own, it would still be better than todays situation, Hogan said.

Financially, expansion of the current jail isnt feasible, officials say, because of the countys plans to expand the judicial building.

Plus, it wouldnt be a good look for Twin Falls to have the jail so close to Shoshone Street, Hall said.

Although there is talk of starting the expansion on Wright Avenue, Hall said he expects the downtown jail to be there for many years to come. He said it is still functional, and building jails isnt cheap.

Livable conditions

We have done everything we can to make conditions as livable as possible within the (old) facility, Hogan said, and give everyone their rights and privileges that can be afforded their classifications.

As jail lieutenant, Hogan has the difficult position of finding beds for the countys inmates.

There are only so many places to squeeze in the boats, he said, and the beds have been fit in common areas and hallways where they were never intended.

Hogan is on the phone almost every workday, talking to other counties to see if they have bed space.

Its a daily task, Hogan said. Every day when I come to work, one of the things I do is attempt to move inmates to another facility or attempt to move as many inmates out of here as possible to state correctional facilities or other counties.

Jerome Countys facility is one they depend on, and the sheriffs office has a contract for 25 beds there, with Twin Falls County paying that county $75 per day per inmate. That jail, a relatively short distance away, might not be so bad, but deputies also drive inmates to counties as far as 175 miles away in Jefferson County in eastern Idaho.

About the jail

Over the years the jail, officially called the James R. Munn Adult Detention Facility, has seen increased inmate numbers.

When built in 1989, Hughes said it was a modern facility, with its wagon wheel design with the control room in the center and cell blocks running out from it.

Hall himself started a job with the Twin Falls Police Department in October 1988, just shortly before the current jail was built, when the jail was on the fourth floor of the courthouse.

Upon the new facility opening, most hoped the jail would last forever.

But our population changed, Hall said.

Hughes, who has been a jail administrator for the past 16 years, said overcrowding has been a growing concern for the past eight years.

Besides the failed bond issue, the sheriffs office completed an addition in 2021 to make additional space. It was touted as 90 new beds, but a couple of dilapidated units at the jail had to be removed, Hogan said, which brought the number down to about 50 new beds.

The 33-year-old jail is showing some age as well. Newer jails have locker rooms, Hughes said, but when this facility was built there wasnt a need for that. Jailers came to work, did their job and left. The break room for jailers is basically a walk-through area.

That can make conditions less than ideal for jailers, who might put in 12-hour shifts. The jail isnt fully staffed, to boot. Hogan said he likes to have 10 jailers on a shift, but sometimes has had as few as five.

It is very challenging, he said.

Occasionally, the department has had to pull in other deputies who have had previous experience working there to help out.

The kitchen, built to prepare 150 meals at a time for inmates, Hughes said, is doing well to provide food for larger numbers. Other signs of the jail being outgrown include its medical facilities. Even the room where inmates leave their personal belongings when they are first booked had to be expanded.

Whos in jail?

Public safety plays a vital role in who is listed on the jail roster.

Vastly more people are given court summonses than are arrested and sent to jail, Loebs said, but when the crime is serious enough, that person is going to jail.

The question for prosecutors and judges is not whether the jail is overcrowded, he said, because that is a secondary question. The question is whether the person is a danger to society...

If hes a danger to society, then he is going to be told to go to jail whether or not the jail is full and they have to find another place for him.

The situation at the county jail has almost nothing to do with people serving a sentence, Loebs continued.

At the end of July, only 21 inmates were serving misdemeanor sentences, but another 36 inmates were already sentenced and were waiting for the Department of Corrections to transport them to state prison. In addition, 131 inmates were waiting for felony trials and 23 were awaiting misdemeanor trials.

Numbers from July also show that it can sometimes be difficult for a person to stay out of jail once they are released on probation. Of the inmates who were in jail at the end of July, 103 were accused of probation violations due to a previous felony.

Another six inmates were back in custody, accused of violating terms of prior release.

Between court compliance and probation violations, they are given a chance to stay out of the jail and they blow it, Loebs said.

And once someone violates probation, they often are not allowed to immediately bail out.

They have already been convicted of felonies and now have failed to abide by their probation, Loebs explained.

During the 2019 jail bond vote, some critics alleged that many inmates were incarcerated due to being caught with a small amount of marijuana.

Those allegations were never true, Loebs said.

Instead, a sampling of people listed on the jail roster shows some people who violated probation were previously convicted in incidents involving hard drugs including methamphetamine and fentanyl.

There has to be some compromise between judges, the prosecutor and the sheriffs office in releasing some people with borderline offenses.

But that is still a small number, he said.

Controlling the tension

Until something else is built, Hogan said jail staff does what they can to ease tensions among inmates.

Sometimes it can be as simple as providing extra fruit during a meal.

Its not always successful, he said, referring to an uptick in physical altercations in the jail. Some altercations endangered deputies, but they were broken up without escalating into something large.

One of the latest incidents occurred in late August when three inmates were charged with rioting after quickly leaving a jail cell and physically assaulting another inmate, records say. Whether the incident had anything to do with tensions from overcrowding, its hard to say.

It could have just been a bunch of inmates intent on committing a crime, Hughes said.

But to reduce the number of those types of incidents, Hogan said the jail has changed a few policies aimed at better keeping the peace.

Fresh fruit is served more often and board game privileges have also been expanded to inmates, depending on their classifications. Its an effort to keep inmates actively engaged in something productive instead of negative behavior.

Also, a better selection is available at the commissary, where inmates are allowed to purchase items.

Awareness

Media has done multiple stories through the years about overcrowding, but Hogan believes most of the public doesnt know about the situation at the jail.

Ive been working in the Twin Falls County Jail for about 16 years and our facilities are just not up to date with the population, he said. Its kind of like, out of sight, out of mind.

But word does get out among some of the population. Inmates tell their families about conditions but it still doesnt get out on a large-scale basis.

But Hogan and Hughes said they are optimistic something to lighten the overcrowding can be done soon.

I hear from jail staff all the time, that we would like to see some light at the end of the tunnel, Hogan said.
The family of a missing Ketchum man has confirmed that his body was found Wednesday in a canal following a Sunday morning accident in Jerome County.

Jhoder Gomez-Catay, 21, had left a party early Sunday morning when he missed a turn and drove into the North Side Canal northwest of Jerome.

The family of Gomez-Catay said he was driving on 300 North at about 3:40 a.m. with 25-year-old Wilder Ramos in the passenger seat. Family members driving behind Gomez-Catay stopped when they saw him go off the road and tried to get both men out of the canal.

Ramos wife jumped into the canal and saved him. The missing mans younger brother tried unsuccessfully to save him before he disappeared.

Family members from Wyoming, Utah and Idaho drove to Jerome after they heard about the accident to help in the search for his body.

Gomez-Catays aunt, Yuliana Gomez, who came from Utah, told the Times-News that family members hadnt left the area prior to being notified that the body had been found.

We havent left just in case we see him, Yuliana Gomez told the Times-News early Wednesday afternoon. Weve been sleeping in cars, sleeping outside. We even bought an inflatable mattress and floated the canal trying to find his body but had no luck. After it popped, we went to get another one and tried again.

Yuliana Gomez said her nephew had moved eight months ago from Peru to the Wood River Valley area and didnt know the area very well.

The Jerome County Sheriffs Office on Wednesday declined to release information about the recovered body.

Gomez-Catays sister, Yulisa Gomez, confirmed that the body recovered Wednesday was that of her brother. The family plans to hold a memorial service in the Wood River Valley.
Idahos Republican Party, at least a portion of it, is catching on to a fact Democrats experienced several years ago. Namely, they want no part of a presidential nominating caucus next March.

Some GOPers are so adamant about passing legislation to restore the presidential primary next year, they are willing to spend our taxpayer dollars to call a special session of the Legislature to fix a mistake from earlier this year.

In case you missed it, Pocatello Rep. Dustin Manwaring sponsored House Bill 138 last session which  apparently by error  eliminated the 2024 GOP primary. Senate Bill 1186 was introduced to correct the problem. While it passed through the Senate, it died in the House State Affairs Committee when GOP Chairwoman Dorothy Moon pitched a fit about it. The Legislature adjourned a week later and Republicans are stuck with a March 2024 caucus.

Get ready for the chaos.

In a previous column, I outlined all the reasons why primaries are infinitely better than caucuses unless you are the consummate political junkie with lots of time on your hands. The rules and procedures for caucusing are murky and hard to understand. The actual caucusing can be chaotic, contentious and take hours and hours to conclude. Theyre a mess. Primaries are the exact opposite. You go to your polling place, you vote, youre home in time for dinner.

The proof is in the numbers. When the Idaho GOP last caucused in 2012, less than 45,000 people showed up. Conversely, more than 225,000 voters participated in the 2016 presidential primary.

For those reasons, and more, the GOP caucus is whipping votes for a special session to address the caucus issue. Predictably, the caucus about the caucus is proving to be messy.

Under a 2022 voter-approved amendment to Idahos Constitution, the Legislature can call for a special session on its own if it receives 60% approval from the House and Senate (42 representatives, 21 senators). Republican Senate Leadership says it has the votes, but apparently House members are fractured into several camps.

If legislators want a special session, theyll have to get their act together by an Oct. 1 deadline. If not, the caucus to get rid of the caucus will have failed.

Ironically, Democratic legislators favor the special session even though they opposed the resolution calling for the 60% constitutional amendment back in 2021. Im sure they have their reasons, but as a taxpayer, Im not eager to foot the bill for legislative incompetence.

According to the fiscal note for the resolution that put the 60% constitutional amendment on the ballot last year, reconvening the Legislature in a special session would cost about $21,300 per day. Given the various proposals floating out there to fix the GOP caucus problem, its quite possible a special session could last beyond just one day. Thats tens of thousands of wasted dollars because the GOP couldnt figure out how to move its primary date for next year.

My proposal: If Idahos GOP wants to get out of the caucus business so badly, then the State GOP should foot the bill for a special session. Its not our fault their legislators eliminated the primary, so we shouldnt have to pay for it.

I voted for the 60% constitutional amendment because I didnt think the power to convene a special session should rest with one person (the governor). I thought a 60% legislative threshold was fair, given that Idaho is a three-party state (Democrat, Republican, Radical Right Wing). Given those divides, the Legislature would need buy-in from a variety of factions in order to get it done.

Were finding out now just how difficult that can be. However, I have no interest in paying for one party to fix a legislative mistake that will only benefit one party. They may not like the caucus format, but its not like their voters will have no say in who they nominate in 2024. Caucuses may be messy, but they shouldnt cost us $21,300 a day.

Idaho GOP: You broke it, so you buy it. Otherwise, go get your caucus on.
A lawmaker urged the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to pursue public-private partnerships in implementing the revival and modernization of the Bicol Express,  the rail line of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) that ran from Manila to Albay.

Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan of Bicol Saro party-list was earlier assured by DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Cesar Chavez that the revival of the Bicol Express or the PNRs South Long Haul Project remains a priority of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

But with no clear direction yet from China on whether it would continue to fund the project, Yamsuan said the DOTr should instead push through with its option of employing the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode to ensure that the project can begin implementation under the current administration.

Our dream is for the Bicol Express to provide affordable, safe and comfortable service for commuters and make Bicols economy the fastest growing in the country, Yamsuan said.

The South Long Haul Project, which is included in the list of the Presidents Build Better More infrastructure program, has a P3 billion allocation this year under the DOTrs proposed budget.

Based on my discussions with Undersecretary Chavez, going the PPP route to implement the civil works aspect of the project is the best way to ensure that the Bicol Express project gets off the ground, said Yamsuan, who has long been advocating for the revival of the Manila-Albay rail line.

Yamsuan said the rebirth of the legendary rail line would create thousands of jobs and lead to the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Bicol region.

When the Bicol Express is reconstructed and fully operational, every station it passes along its line will be a busy hub of economic activity. Micro and small enterprises will be sprouting in every station, providing jobs for tens of thousands of Bicolanos, Yamsuan said.

The Bicol Saro lawmaker said he agrees with Chavezs PPP modality of tapping foreign funding institutions like the Asian Development Bank (ADB) or the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to provide financing for the electromechanical system of the project, while the government funds the right-of-way acquisition and rolling stock, and partners with the private sector for the civil works aspect of the project.

During the budget deliberations of the House Committee on Appropriations on the DOTrs proposed budget for 2024, Chavez said that if the government cannot get a definitive commitment from the Export-Import Bank of China (China Eximbank) this year for the P142 billion loan to implement the first phase of the project, he would recommend that the Department of Finance (DOF) seek other foreign partners or employ the PPP modality to get the project up and running.

The government currently has an ongoing P14-billion management consultancy contract with China Railways Design Corporation (CRDC) for the project. But with China Eximbank giving no clear direction as to whether it would approve the loan application for the project, Chavez said the DOTr would have to terminate the contract with CRDC to be able to look for other possible funding sources.
Kim Jong Un told President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday he was sure Russia would win a great victory over its enemies, as Ukraines Western allies warned of a possible Russian arms agreement with North Korea.

Russia became a pariah in the West after launching full-scale hostilities in Ukraine last year and has looked to strengthen alliances with other leaders ostracised by democratic countries.

We are confident that the Russian army and people will win a great victory in the just fight to punish evil groups who pursue hegemony, expansion, and ambition, Kim told Putin, raising a toast during an official dinner following one-on-one talks.

Kim also praised the heroic Russian army in comments that news agencies sponsored by Moscow interpreted as relating to Moscows large-scale military operation in Ukraine.

Putin praised the strengthening of cooperation and friendship between our countries, while hosting Kim at a Far East spaceport, and told reporters he saw possibilities for military cooperation with North Korea.

He had earlier said Moscow could help Pyongyang build satellites.

In Washington, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller described any cooperation as quite troubling and would potentially be in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions.

US officials and experts have said Russia is interested in buying North Korean ammunition to use in Ukraine.

We will always be with Russia, Kim said, according to footage broadcast on Russian TV.

An old friend is better than two new ones, Putin said, quoting a Russian proverb and referencing the Soviet Unions role in the Korean War.

Their talks as well as discussions with delegations lasted around two hours before the leaders proceeded to the dinner in Kims honour.

Kim will later oversee a display of the capabilities of Russias Pacific fleet in Vladivostok, Putin announced.

 Cosmodrome meeting 

The two leaders met at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, with footage released by the Kremlin showing the pair shaking hands enthusiastically as Kim arrived.

The two then toured assembly and launch facilities for the Angara and Soyuz-2 space rocket launchers before sitting down for talks.

While Kim was in Russia, Pyongyang fired two ballistic missiles on Wednesday, the South Korean military said, the latest in a string of sanctions-busting tests.

Miller, the US State Department spokesman, warned that North Korean satellites have been used to develop Pyongyangs ballistic missiles.

The United States will not hesitate to impose sanctions if appropriate, Miller told reporters.

Kim, who travelled overland to Russia in his bullet-proof train, was accompanied by an entourage that suggested the summit would have a strong military focus.

Among the top military officials accompanying Kim were Korean Peoples Army Marshal Pak Jong Chon and Munitions Industry Department Director Jo Chun Ryong, according to the Norths state media.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu took part in the talks with Kim, as did Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, images on Russian state television showed.

Russian news agencies published images of Kim and Putin touring the vast space centre.

The leader of the DPRK shows great interest in rocket technology, and they are trying to develop (their presence in) space, Putin said, referring to North Korea by its official name.

Kim thanked Putin for inviting him to visit, despite the Russian leaders busy schedule.

 Tactical gains 

The meeting at the cosmodrome was symbolic, especially as Pyongyang failed twice recently in its bid to put a military spy satellite into orbit.

Russia is eager for North Koreas stockpile of artillery shells, while Pyongyang is looking for help with satellite technology and upgrading its Soviet-era military equipment, An Chan-il, a defector-turned-researcher who runs the World Institute for North Korea Studies, told AFP.

If North Koreas multiple rocket launchers and other artillery shells are provided to Russia in large quantities, it could have a significant impact on the war in Ukraine, he said.

The White House warned last week that North Korea would pay a price if it supplies Russia with weaponry for the conflict in Ukraine.

Kim is also risking the displeasure of his other major ally Beijing by meeting Putin, Vladimir Tikhonov, professor of Korean studies at the University of Oslo, told AFP.

China will be hardly too happy about Russia entering into what Chinese consider their monopoly territory, he said, adding Beijing would be worried about regional destabilisation caused by any transfer of Russian military technology to Pyongyang.
Dozens of Chinese warplanes and 10 navy ships were detected around Taiwan, Taipei authorities said on Thursday after warning that Beijing was conducting air and sea drills in the Western Pacific.

China claims self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and relations have soured since Taiwans independence-leaning President Tsai Ing-wen came to power in 2016, with Beijing ratcheting up military and political pressure on the island.

Taiwans defence ministry said in a statement that 68 Chinese aircraft and 10 naval vessels were detected near the island between Wednesday morning and Thursday morning.

Taipei had already said some of those planes and warships were heading to an unspecified area of the Western Pacific to conduct joint sea and air training with Chinas Shandong aircraft carrier.

The Shandong, one of two operational aircraft carriers in the Chinese fleet, was detected Monday around 60 nautical miles (110 kilometres) southeast of Taiwan heading into the Western Pacific, Taipei authorities said.

Japans defence ministry also said Wednesday its navy had detected six ships  including frigates, destroyers, one fast combat support ship and the Shandong  sailing through waters some 650 kilometres (400 miles) south of Miyakojima island, east of Taiwan.

It also confirmed that jets and helicopters had been detected taking off and landing from the Shandong.

 Grey zone 

Taipei warned this week that China was stepping up grey zone activities around the island, accusing Beijing of seeking to raise regional tensions and pressure the territory while avoiding all-out conflict.

Chinas military has been tasked to develop capabilities to take over Taiwan, one expert said.

Those military exercises are aimed at developing and practising those capabilities, Bonnie Glaser, a China expert at Washington DCs German Marshall Fund.

We should expect its trend to continue, with growing pressure on Taiwan.

China has not commented officially on any drills being conducted in the Western Pacific.

However, its Eastern Theatre Command, which organises drills around Taiwan, said Wednesday an aviation unit had carried out training recently in a range of thousands of kilometres.

It did not mention Taiwan.

China said last week its troops were on constant high alert after two ships belonging to the United States and Canada sailed through the Taiwan Strait.

The US Navy said the ships were the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson and HMCS Ottawa, and that the transit demonstrates the commitment of the United States and our allies and partners to a free and open Indo-Pacific, another term for the Asia-Pacific region.

The United States and Western allies have increased freedom of navigation crossings of both the Taiwan Strait and the disputed South China Sea to reinforce that both are international waterways, angering Beijing.

China conducted military exercises in April to simulate the encirclement of Taiwan after Tsai met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in California.
WASHINGTON, DC The United States on Wednesday voiced alarm at new military cooperation between Russia and North Korea after the two countries leaders met.

The cooperation announced during North Korean leader Kim Jong Uns visit to Russias far east is quite troubling and would potentially be in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters.

He noted US concerns that North Korean satellites, on which Russian President Vladimir Putin promised cooperation, have been used to develop Pyongyangs ballistic missiles.

The United States will not hesitate to impose sanctions if appropriate, Miller said.

In related developments, Japan warned Thursday against violating UN resolutions on arms deals with North Korea, after Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Kim Jong Un.

We are watching (the talks) with concerns including the possibility that it could lead to violations of the Security Councils ban on all arms-related material transactions with North Korea, new Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa told reporters.

There has been widespread speculation that Putin is seeking arms from North Korea to use in his countrys war in Ukraine.

Kamikawa said that the Russian invasion of Ukraine cannot be accepted.

She added: Japan has urged third parties not to provide support to Russian forces. We are watching related activities with concerns.

Kamikawa, appointed on Wednesday, also said Japan will continue to collect and analyse information and work with the United States, South Korea and other nations to ensure complete compliance with relevant United Nations resolutions.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said separately: Any arrangements that would improve North Koreas military capabilities would certainly be of concern.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in an interview aired Wednesday, said that Russias reliance on North Korea and Iran showed its dire situation as it wages its war in Ukraine.

Thats kind of a Star Wars bar scene of countries. So I think it does speak to Russias desperation, Blinken told the Pod Save the World podcast.

Were looking to make sure that we, as necessary, can impose costs and consequences.

Anatoly Antonov, Russias ambassador to the United States, slammed Washingtons response to the Putin-Kim summit.

The USA has no right to teach us how to live, he said in comments posted on the embassys Telegram.

Washingtons duplicity is absolutely nothing new: Americans can supply weapons to a hot spot  that is, Ukraine  but Russian military-technical cooperation with foreign countries, according to the administrations logic, is illegal.

As for the threat of further sanctions, he said that in the conditions of thousands of existing restrictions, it is unlikely that local Russophobes will find anything else that could hurt our interests.

Its time for Washington to throw away its sanctions baton and think about how to build equal relationships with all states.
A briefing will be held at New College Institute on Friday, revealing current data about the quality of life in Martinsville and Henry County.

The West Piedmont Health District, Harvest Foundation, and a group of citizens called the Equity Collaborative have invited the public to attend the event at 11:30 a.m. at 191 Fayette St.

The health district routinely leads community health assessments. This one is different, said West Piedmont Health District Population Health Manager Nancy Bell. This time we approached data-seeking from an equity perspective by using a formula of inclusion and outreach to underrepresented groups and doing so in nontraditional ways.

Two studies providing information on infant mortality, chronic health conditions, education, economic well being, housing, food access, transportation and other issues are included in the data sets, uncovering the health and outcomes local residents experience.

The project has been underway for several months with a purpose of better understanding the needs of citizens from every census tract, ethnic, racial and income group.

This is not just about determining the needs of citizens, its about better understanding the barriers that keep them from achieving optimum health, said Pamela Chitwood, the health districts equity coordinator and project manager. Chitwood said that in the coming months, groups of concerned citizens will work together to develop solutions to the issues detailed in the report.

The Harvest Foundation supported and supplemented the work by partnering with the University of Virginia to break down data to the census tract level.

Understanding inequities in you community at the census tract level allows policy makers the opportunity to know exactly where and who are experiencing better or worse health outcomes, said Harvest Foundation President Kate Keller.

We have a 12.5-year difference in life expectancy on two different sides of a street in Martinsville and Henry County. We now can dig into the reasons why and work with local communities to shrink that gap.

Other supporting partners of the project include Community Health Solutions, Virginia Techs Center for Public Health Practice and Research, and the Weldon Cooper Center for Survey Research at University of Virginia. The partners provided assistance with the gathering and analyzing of the data.

To anyone who attends the briefing and signs in with an email address, links to the two data documents will be provided.

Attendees will have the opportunity to join any of the solution teams and work with others who have an interest in the work.
EDITORS NOTE: Church news will print weekly in Thursdays edition. Please email announcements at least one week in advance to news@mcdowellnews.com with church announcement in the subject line or call 828-437-2161 and leave a message.

UPCOMING EVENTS

FRIDAY, SEPT. 15

Fish Fry: Addies Chapel United Methodist Church, 201 Ridley St. in Marion, will hold a fish fry on Friday, Sept. 15, from 11 a.m. until. Dinner plates are $12 and sandwiches are $6.50.

ONGOING EVENTS First United Methodist Church, across from Marion Elementary School, invites everyone looking for a church family to Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. The United Methodist Men continue to sell their peanuts for $5 a jar. Peanuts are available in regular, light salt, no salt and Cajun. To order, contact the church office at 652-7010. FUMC also administers an Emergency Fund on the first and third Wednesdays of every month from 10-11:30 a.m. This fund assists with electricity and heating needs, water bills and rent. Clients must meet certain requirements, and funds are paid directly to providers. Clients should come to the upper parking lot and enter the door near the church van.

Redeemed Freewill Baptist Church, of 5079 U.S. 221 South, hosts a youth program called The Sprouts from 7-8 p.m. every Wednesday until further notice. A meal and a Bible lesson will be provided. Parents are encouraged to bring their children to learn about the love of Jesus.

St. Matthews Lutheran Church, of 241 W. Court St., Marion, invites the community to watch the global film phenomenon The Chosen. Experience the Bible as vividly real each Wednesday at 7 p.m. until further notice. There will be refreshments and door prizes.

Chapel Hill Baptist Church, on U.S. 221 South, Marion, will have an all-you-can-eat breakfast on the second Saturday of each month from 7:30-10 a.m. for a donation.

Concord Methodist Church will have an all-you-can-eat breakfast on the second Saturday of each month from 7:30-10 a.m. This includes pancakes and take-outs. Adults are $7, children younger than 12 are $5. The church is on U.S. 221 North.

His Place Worship Center, 1423 U.S. 70 West in Marion, will host combined in-person and online meetings at 10 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month. Additional information about the Hickory Lighthouse, including links to the Zoom and Facebook Live meetings, are available at Hickory Aglows website and Facebook page: www.aglownet.org/hickorync and www.facebook.com/hickory.aglow. Interested persons may sign up on the website to receive a monthly email newsletter. Readers may receive related Facebook notifications by liking the Facebook page.

The Sharing Food Pantry Ministry of Cross United Methodist Church needs donations of coats, sweaters and blankets for families in the community who may be in need. Donations can be dropped off at 85 W. Cross St., just past Blue Ridge Terrace Apartments in Marion. For more information, call 828-460-9257 or 828-559-4047 and leave a message.

East Marion Baptist Church, of 660 Baldwin Ave., Marion, will host The Landing, a 12-step program for teens, every Wednesday from 6-7:30 p.m. For more information, email thelanding@embc.church.

North Cove Church of God will have a breakfast sale on every third Saturday of the month.

Living Waters Tabernacle of Old Fort is offering a worship service twice a month for college-aged adults called Encounter. The service will be the first and third Thursday of each month from 6:30-7:30 p.m. At each meeting, a new topic will be discussed with a guest speaker; live music will be played; and refreshments will be served. For more information, check out Living Waters Tabernacle of Old Fort on Facebook or email jakanjamison96@gmail.com. The church is at 344 Moffitt Hill Church Road in Old Fort.

Cross Mill United Methodist Church has a sharing food pantry for the community. The tiny food pantry is outside the church fellowship building, and is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The nonperishable food items are available for anyone in need. If you would like to donate items to this ministry, you may drop them off at the pantry box or call 460-9257 or 442-8098.

Greenlee Baptist Church, 5967 U.S. 70 West in Old Fort, offers Kids on a Mission each Sunday from 6-8 p.m. Newborns to seniors in high school are invited to join. The church also has a deaf ministry available. Interpreters will be provided for the worship services every Sunday at 10:55 a.m. For information, call the church office at 668-6075 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Cross Ties Cowboy Church meets every first Thursday at 2365 Bethlehem Road in Old Fort at 7 p.m. in the barn. For more information, call 828-925-2095.

Landmark Independent Baptist Church will host a meeting on alcohol and addiction awareness by Gene Sigmon the third Friday of each month at 6:30 p.m. The church is at 225 Huskins Branch Road in Marion. For more information, contact Sigmon at soundmind16@yahoo.com.

Peppers Creek Baptist Church will have a singing on the fourth Saturday of each month at 7 p.m. from January through October.

McDowell Childrens Ministry, a ministry for children of the community interested in participating in a life-changing program, meets twice monthly. For more information, call Daniel at 659-0095 during the day or at 738-0733 in the evenings.

Cross Mill Pentecostal Holiness Church has a soaking prayer and intercession meeting every Friday at 8 p.m. For information, call the Rev. Doug Beane-Hall at 442-6216.

Vision Baptist Church, at 1841 Fairview Road, Marion, is offering Extreme Teens (Club 411) on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 10 a.m. Victorious Couples meet on Sundays at 10 a.m. Additional childrens and adult programs are also available.

First Presbyterian Church of Marion invites everyone to come out on Sundays at 11 a.m. for worship service. All are welcome.

Apostolic Restoration Ministries is a new church to the area. If anyone is interested in attending, call Tim Eller at 828-443-2050.
Leaders in medicine, business and technology gathered at Stanford School of Medicines Li Ka Shing Center for Learning and Knowledge Sept. 9 and 10 for the inaugural Big Ideas in Medicine conference. Eighteen speakers addressed the most critical concerns and opportunities for medicine in the coming years including artificial intelligence, health equity, oncology, and aging and longevity.

Lloyd Minor, MD, dean of the Stanford School of Medicine, kicked off the event, welcoming participants and speakers. Minor said he hoped bringing leaders together at Stanford Medicine would foster greater interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation  helping make big ideas even bigger and more impactful.

Theres never been a more exciting time to do what we are doing. The work done by many of you in this room and others around the university, around the world, is going to underlie success that we have in the future, Minor said.

David Rhew, MD, vice president of health care at Microsoft, delivered the keynote address. Rhew focused on the need to develop guardrails for AI tools in medical settings, such as preventing AI programs that interface with health data from sharing patient information. Rhew also advocated for large institutions to create best practices for open-source AI developers and to focus on the most low-risk, high-reward opportunities when integrating AI.

AI and big data

Ilana Yurkiewicz, MD, a clinical assistant professor of primary care and population health, spoke on the need for better organization of medical record data. Yurkiewicz compared the length of the typical patients medical record to the 700-plus pages of Charles Dickenss Bleak House but with all the pages ripped out, mixed up and lost. The burden of this data mess, Yurkiewicz said, has led to nearly half of clinicians reporting burnout. Yurkiewicz proposed the most beneficial use of AI would be to organize medical recordkeeping.

Jonathan Chen, MD, PhD, an assistant professor of biomedical informatics, told participants that there was no point in hand-wringing over the dangers of AI in medicine because Pandoras box has already been opened  patients and even medical residents are already using ChatGPT as a reference tool. Chen said he fully expects people to receive therapy from automated bots in the near future, not necessarily because bots are better, but because of a continuing shortage of clinicians. Chen invited participants to reconsider their preconceptions about bots.

Is a computer smarter than a human? Thats the wrong question to ask. Lets combine the best AI software, the best human hardware; and together were going to deliver better health care than either would alone, Chen said.
Cape Verdes debt management was more effective and included new measures, leading to a positive assessment from the World Bank, 0.8 points above the average for sub-Saharan Africa.

The World Bank has improved its assessment of Cape Verdes ability to effectively use foreign aid, given national policies and institutions, which was 0.8 points above the average for sub-Saharan Africa.

Debt management has improved through updates to the legal framework, transparent reporting and budget risk management, reads an annual World Bank report, to which Lusa had access on Wednesday September 13. It analyzes whether the institutional and policy environment is conducive to the effectiveness of development aid, in which a score of 3.9 points is given, the highest among the Portuguese-speaking African countries (PALOP).

In the report, the International Development Association (IDA), the World Banks arm for concessional financing to the poorest countries, says that Cape Verde has made remarkable progress in the management of water and sanitation services, which has led to easier access to safe drinking water.

However, they add, there are concerns about the significant deviations between budgeted expenditure and actual expenditure, which indicates the need to improve budget control and projections and, finally, they argue that economic management should be improved to match the strong performance in institutional quality.

The World Bank improved the score of 12 African countries, maintaining 20 and worsening eight, in a report that assesses the adequacy of each countrys policies and institutions for the effective application of financial aid for development.
Unesco has removed on September 13 the Kasubi site, home to the tombs of the rulers of Buganda, a traditional kingdom in southern Uganda, from the list of World Heritage in Danger after it was damaged by fire in 2010.

Located in the hills above the capital Kampala, this complex of circular buildings made of wood, reeds and thatched roofs has been listed as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) since 2001.

In March 2010, a fire largely destroyed the main building, known as Muzibu-Azaala-Mpanga, housing the tombs of four kabakas (kings) of Buganda, the countrys first customary kingdom.

The reconstruction program, carried out with the help of international funding, was successfully completed in the summer of 2023, allowing the site to return to its desired state of conservation, said the World Heritage Committee, meeting in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) until September 25.

This reconstruction is a collective success: that of the Ugandan authorities, of Ugandan heritage professionals, but also of the local communities who were at the heart of the process, congratulated Unesco Director General Audrey Azoulay, quoted in a press release.

This is excellent news for the entire international community, at a time when we have made it a priority for World Heritage to give more space to African sites, she added. Half of the sites on the List of World Heritage in Danger are located on the continent.

The former palace of the kabakas, built in 1882 and converted into a royal burial ground in 1884, is an outstanding example of the architectural style developed by the powerful kingdom of Buganda from the 13th century onwards, according to Unesco. The fire in 2010 caused a stir among the Baganda, subjects of the Buganda kings and one of Ugandas main ethnic groups.
The Government of Guinea-Bissau admitted on Wednesday that it will miss the deficit target agreed with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), with a figure that is currently almost ten times higher than stipulated in the financial aid program.

Since January, the African country has been benefiting from the IMFs Extended Credit Facility program, which provides 36 million US dollars (33 million euros) over 36 months and has already received two positive evaluations.

Guinea-Bissaus Minister of Economy and Finance, Suleimane Seide, who has been in office for a month, presented the public accounts on September 13, and said that he will have to renegotiate with the IMF, given the figures found by the new Government of the Inclusive Alliance Platform (PAI) Terra Ranka coalition, led by the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC).

The deficit stipulated in the agreement with the IMF is less than four percent of GDP (Gross Domestic Product), but Guinea-Bissaus deficit amounts to almost 30 percent of GDP and is likely to get worse by the end of the year, given the emergency program to ease the cost of living.

The minister said that he had taken over the finance portfolio with around 10 billion francs cfa (15 million euros) in the coffers, earmarked for salary payments and foreign debt.

The countrys overall debt is around 900 billion cfa (more than 1.3 billion euros), which is equivalent to a deficit of close to 30% of GDP, according to the accounts presented.

The situation calls into question the deficit agreed with the Monetary Fund, said the minister.

The government will be forced to make two debt issues to cover treasury bond liabilities, i.e. make more debt to pay off debt.
King Mohammed VI chaired this Thursday September 14, 2023, at the Royal Palace in Rabat, a working meeting devoted to activating the emergency program for rehousing disaster victims and caring for the categories most affected by the Al Haouz earthquake, the Royal Office said in a statement.

This meeting follows the working session presided over by the Sovereign on September 9, 2023 and during which royal instructions were given to mobilize all resources, with the necessary speed and efficiency, to help stricken families and citizens, and in particular to deploy rehabilitation and reconstruction measures as quickly as possible, in the localities affected by this natural disaster of unprecedented proportions, the statement said.

During the meeting, the Sovereign was briefed on the first version of the rehousing program which was prepared by the inter-ministerial commission set up pursuant to the high royal instruction. The program covers some 50,000 totally or partially collapsed homes in the five provinces affected by the quake.

It consists, on the one hand, of emergency temporary rehousing measures, in particular through adapted formulas for on-site accommodation in structures designed to withstand the cold and bad weather; or in reception sites equipped with all the necessary amenities. In addition, the State will grant emergency aid of 30,000 dirhams to the households concerned.

In this respect, the Sovereign drew the attention of the competent authorities to the extremely high priority of the rehousing operation, which must be carried out under the necessary conditions of fairness and constant attention to the needs of the populations concerned.

On the other hand, the program consists of immediate reconstruction actions, which will be deployed after preliminary expertise operations and land preparation and stabilization work. To this end, direct financial assistance of 140,000 dirhams has been earmarked for totally collapsed dwellings, and 80,000 dirhams to cover rehabilitation work of partially collapsed homes.

The King also insisted on the need for the reconstruction operation to be carried out on the basis of specifications and under technical and architectural supervision in harmony with the regions heritage and respecting its unique architectural features.

During the same working session, the King reiterated his Instructions for a strong, swift and proactive response, while respecting the dignity, customs and heritage of the populations.

In addition to repairing the damage caused by the earthquake, these measures will also involve launching a well-thought-out, integrated, and ambitious program for the reconstruction and general upgrading of the affected regions, both in terms of infrastructure reinforcement and improving the quality of public services.

This multi-faceted program will primarily mobilize the States own financial resources and those of public bodies, and will also be open to contributions from private players and associations, as well as from brotherly and friendly countries that so wish, and to whom the King reiterates, on this occasion, Moroccos most sincere thanks.

During the meeting, the King also raised the equally crucial issue of immediate care for orphaned children, who today find themselves without family or resources. The Sovereign has asked that these children be registered and granted the status of wards of the nation.

Also, in order to lift them out of this situation of distress and protect them from all risks and all forms of fragility to which they may unfortunately be exposed after a natural disaster, the Sovereign ordered the government to launch the adoption process, as quickly as possible, of the bill necessary for this purpose.

Through the vision and action of its Sovereign, Morocco is once again demonstrating the resilience that characterizes it, enabling it to face up to the trials and challenges with resolve, wisdom, and determination, thanks to the strength of its institutions and the solidarity and generosity of its people.
Benin and Nigeria have reached a set of deals including allowing Nigerian citizens to clear their goods at Cotonou port.

The acting Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi made the announcement this week, following a two-day working visit by the Director-general and senior officials of the customs service of Benin.

Both countries during the working visit, entered into various agreements in order to boost trade relations between Nigeria and Benin, as well as curb smuggling. We are building confidence in the system offered by the Republic of Benin, our importers are using their ports and vice-versa. If there are people in Benin Republic who want to use our ports, we try to build trust in our systems, said A. Adeniyi.

And by virtue of this agreement, what it means is that Nigerian importers willing to use the ports in Cotonou can have their goods cleared in those ports because there would be an opportunity for them to pay duties on goods that are liable for payment of duties. We can account for the duties on those goods in the ports of arrival. So, they will now be free to enter Nigeria, explained the Nigerian Comptroller-General.

Adeniyi himself visited Benin in July 2023 as part of both countries desire to boost custom cooperation.
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:

People with locked-in syndrome can communicate only with their eyes. Credit: CC0 via Unsplash

EU-backed scientists are making progress in efforts to give people with impaired motor functions more independence.

In 2009, a former U.S. policeman named Richard Marsh suffered a severe stroke that left him completely paralyzed but consciousa condition known as locked-in syndrome.

Little more than four months later, in a miracle of sorts, Marsh recovered to the point of being able to walk out of his intensive-care facility.

Communication breakdown

Most people with locked-in syndrome, a rare neurological disorder, have no such good fortune. While being conscious, patients usually remain almost completely paralyzed and unable to communicate.

A new research project could offer them some hope. Called INTRECOM, the project has received EU funding to enable people with locked-in syndrome to communicate through an implantable brain-computer interface.

"The device is basically ready, but there's extensive tests that need to be done to make sure it's safe for permanent implantation," said Professor Nick Ramsey, a neuroscientist at the University Medical Center of Utrecht in the Netherlands. "That's what we are doing now."

Ramsey coordinates INTRECOM, which began in December 2022 and runs for four years.

A handful of confirmed cases of locked-in syndrome occur worldwide every year. It is caused by brainstem damage resulting from a stroke or neuromuscular disease such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS.

"The brain still does everything it is supposed to do but the signals it sends to the body don't arrive," Ramsey said.

Hard-wired

The device has three parts: 128 electrodes placed in the brain, electronics that amplify the signals collected and a device that packages the information and wirelessly transmits it to a computer.

All this hardware had to be miniaturized so it can be implanted.

Otherwise, wires would have to go through the patient's skin and would create a risk of infection "like a highway for bacteria into the brain," said Ramsey.

Once safety tests have been conducted, the plan is to implant the device in two patients with ALS. One of them is in Utrecht and the other in the Austrian city of Graz.

The INTRECOM researchers aim to carry out the implantations in 2024 or early 2025.

Speech decoding

The team will then turn its sights to software: testing an artificial-intelligence algorithm for decoding the brain signals.

The software research will be challenging because, as there are no patients with 128 implanted electrodes, the information needed to create the decoding models is unavailable.

"We will have to conduct a lot of data collecting experiments to get the data that we need to start decoding speech," said Ramsey. "One of the ways we will do that is by having the patient read in their mind 'aloud'because of course they can't speakfrom texts that we offer."

The researchers can then start labeling brain data for the software as they will know exactly what the patient is trying to say.

The team will train the system first to understand a handful of commands from the patients so that they can select letters and spell out words on screen.

The hope is that the patients will begin communicating with their families within months of having the implants fitted.

The ultimate aim is to let patients communicate in a more natural way via a voice synthesizer. The researchers anticipate that patients will be able to start doing this after about a year.

Ramsey and his team intend after INTRECOM ends in November 2026 to pursue a new project to implant the brain-computer interface in 10 more people.

Spinal-injury focus

Brain implants can decode more than speech signals and are used in patients who suffer loss of motor function as a result of a spinal-cord injury, which afflicts around 750,000 people a year.

In these patients, the implant is part of a system that bypasses the spinal injury to reconnect neural activity to their limbs so that they can be used again.

An EU-funded project called NEMO BMI is trying to make life easier for them.

After their brain-machine interface is initially set up, such patients have periodically to return to the laboratory and have the system recalibrated.

They sit with an assistant to adjust the model that decodes their brain activity until their limbs are doing what they want.

NEMO BMI, which runs for three years through September 2025, would do away with this step by making the periodic recalibrations happen automatically whenever needed. The project would also embed brain-signal decoding in a silicon chip for autonomous use at home.

"It might be that, one day, we move from supervised recalibrations of the decoding model to autonomous updates," said Dr. Tetiana Aksenova, the project coordinator and a neural engineer at research institute CEA Grenoble in France.

Digital bridge

NEMO BMI is the continuation of work initiated under a clinical trial to restore mobility in people with spinal-cord injury using brain-machine interfaces.

In May 2023, a research team involved in this trial reported having enabled a tetraplegic man from the Netherlands to stand and walk again.

The team did so by restoring communication between his brain and spinal cord, which had been damaged in a traffic accident in 2011.

The scientists used a "digital bridge" that linked neural activity detected by a brain implant to electrodes that stimulated the nerves in the man's spine.

When the patient tries to move his legs, his muscles now respond in the way he intends.

Action and intent

For their part, the NEMO BMI researchers are seeking to detect a possible signal that shows 'if the action corresponds to the patient's intent," said Aksenova.

Using such brain signaling, their system would determine whether patients are satisfied with their motor control and, if not, recalibrate the device that decodes the signal as needed.

The NEMO BMI team is working with three patients. In preliminary study, a satisfactory signal was identified in one of them.

"Now we try to generalize this approach to our three patients in different scenarios," Aksenova said.

With NEMO BMI only a third of the way through and plenty of questions still unanswered, she's cautiously optimistic of more progress over the remaining two years of the project.
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:

3D chemical structure of bisphenol A. Credit: Wikipedia.

Bisphenol A (BPA), a hormone-disrupting chemical used in food packaging, is present in almost all Europeans' bodies, posing a potential health risk, the European Environment Agency said Thursday.

"A recent Horizon 2020 research initiative, HBM4EU, measured chemicals in people's bodies in Europe and detected BPA in the urine of 92 percent of adult participants from 11 European countries," the agency wrote in a new report.

The Copenhagen-based EEA said the share of adults exceeding the recommended maximum levels ranged from 71 to 100 percent in the 11 countries studied, referring to levels outlined by the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) in an April review.

The EFSA at the time drastically reduced the recommended maximum daily intake of BPA allowed for consumers, slashing it by 20,000 times to 0.2 billionths of a gram, down from four millionths of a gram.

BPA, once used to make baby bottles until it was banned in Europe, the US and other nations a decade ago, is still used to make plastic for some food and drink packaging, meaning that most people are potentially exposed to it while consuming food and drink.

Research has suggested it is linked to a range of health disorders linked to hormone disruption, such as breast cancer and infertility.

France is the only country to have entirely banned BPA.

The EU and US have limited its use and have flagged that they plan to reduce it further.

Agencies disagree

But there is disagreement over the tolerable daily amount of BPA that can be consumed over a lifetime without posing a risk to human health.

The European Medicines Agency, which is responsible for approving drugs, has contested the EFSA's new maximum recommended levels.

Criticizing the EFSA's methodology it has suggested the body has been too hasty "given that a causal link has not been demonstrated in a study in animals or humans".

The EEA has nonetheless concluded that people's exposure to BPA "is well above acceptable health safety levels, according to updated research data."

"This poses a potential health risk to millions of people," it said.

Levels of Bisphenol A, S and F were measured in the urine of 2,756 people in the 11 countries between 2014 and 2020.

The countries were Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal and Switzerland.

Levels were lowest in Switzerland, where they exceeded the new maximum recommended levels in 71 percent of people studied, while they were exceeded in 100 percent of people in France, Luxembourg and Portugal, the EEA said.

"The reported exceedances are minimum numbers. The probability exists that actually, all 11 countries have exceedance rates of 100 percent exposed above safe levels," it concluded.

 2023 AFP
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

The Tchin Thin wine bar is seen in Bordeaux, southwestern France, Thursday, Sept.14, 2023. A 32-year-old woman died in France and eight other people remained hospitalized Thursday after an apparent botulism outbreak linked to homemade sardine preserves and the wine bar in Bordeaux, according to regional health officials. At least 10 people who ate in the restaurant between Sept. 4 and Sept. 10 were hospitalized, most of them in intensive care or critical condition. All had consumed sardine preserves served by the restaurant, the Tchin Tchin Wine Bar. Credit: AP Photo/Sophie Garcia

Matt Jackson was riding an electric bike through Bordeaux wine country when he started feeling strange. Nine days later, he's on a breathing machine in a French intensive care unit, unable to open his eyes, communicating only via notes on a whiteboard - and infected with botulism.

Jackson was among the first of a dozen people who ate preserved sardines in a Bordeaux wine bar last week to be hospitalized with what French authorities believe is the rare and potentially fatal illness.

One, a 32-year-old woman from the Paris region, has died.

Officials issued an appeal around France and beyond to find others who might have eaten the suspicious sardines and might be at risk. Among those sickened have been visitors from the U.S., Ireland, Canada, Germany and Spain, according to the regional health authority ARS.

Jackson and his partner Kristy Benner, on vacation from Hermosa Beach, California, stopped by the Tchin Tchin Wine Bar on Sept. 4, and sampled wine with small plates of sardines and charcuterie.

The next morning, they took a wine-tasting trip to nearby Saint-Emilion. "We're on e-bikes riding to the vineyards, and around 10 a.m. Matt just said he didn't feel very well,'' she said.

At first thought she thought Jackson was dehydrated, or having a stroke.

Hillary Jackson, from New York, right, and Kristy Benner, from Los Angeles, pose outside the Saint-Andre hospital in Bordeaux, southwestern France, Thursday, Sept.14, 2023. Kristy Benner's partner Matt Jackson was riding an electric bike through Bordeaux wine country on vacation when he started feeling strange. Nine days later, he's on a breathing machine in a French ICU, unable to open his eyes, communicating only via notes on a whiteboard and infected with botulism. A 32-year-old woman died in France and eight other people remained hospitalized Thursday after an apparent botulism outbreak linked to homemade sardine preserves and the wine bar in Bordeaux. Credit: AP Photo/Sophie Garcia

"His abilities were going down quickly," she told The Associated Press on Thursday from Bordeaux. As he spoke, "it was very hard to understand. And his mouth was so unbelievably dry, to the point where he couldn't swallow water."

After two days at his side in the hospital, she started feeling parched herself, and having trouble swallowing. She alerted friends and family to seek help, and Jackson's sister Hillary jumped on a plane from New York.

Benner suspected botulism but doctors were at first skeptical. It took days to confirm a link to the sardines, and to get them both access to anti-toxins for a disease that French hospitals encounter infrequently. France records only 10 to 20 cases of botulism nationwide per year.

Foodborne botulism is a rare illness from eating foods contaminated with botulinum toxin and can cause paralysis, breathing difficulty and sometimes death. Homemade foods that have been improperly canned, preserved, or fermented are common sources.

At least 12 people who ate the preserves between Sept. 4 and Sept. 10 have been hospitalized, according to an ARS official. Some have been released but most remain in intensive care or critical condition, the official said.

All exhibited symptoms typical of botulism, which can include severe abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, blurred vision, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing or speaking and neurological problems.

The family is frustrated with the slow initial response, but says the overall reception has been positive.

"People have been so open arms and welcoming to us and trying to to help," Hillary Jackson said. ''It's just that wine bar."

The restaurant was closed pending further investigation. The regional agency for consumer protection carried out inspections and confiscated all its preserved food for analysis. The restaurant personnel could not be reached for comment.

As of Thursday, Benner was still fatigued and having trouble swallowing. She said Matt "can't open his eyes and he's on the ventilator ... he's totally not like himself.

Hillary Jackson said French doctors met with counterparts from around the EU earlier this week to discuss response times to botulism.

''So hopefully if nothing else comes out of this, it's an acknowledgement that this is out there, and the key to it is treating it early."

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: AI-generated image

Restaurants posting their menus on third-party food delivery platforms, such as DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub, are not consistently following a law requiring calorie disclosures, according to new research published September 13 in the journal Public Health Nutrition. Authors of the study say that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) should clarify the rules so that calories are posted more consistently.

A federal law passed in 2010 requires chain restaurants to post calorie counts on menus, and those calorie counts must be visible to consumers while making their food selections, whether online or in a restaurant.

Researchers at the Center for Science in the Public Interest, Tufts University, and New York University examined whether the top 75 restaurant chains are supplying the information by analyzing the first three foods and first three drinks on restaurants' menus on the restaurants' own websites or apps and on third-party platforms.

Examining food and drink items posted by restaurants located in four U.S. cities, the researchers found that just 60 percent of menus on restaurant websites or apps posted calories for every menu item reviewed (43 of 72 chains). And the proportion of menus with calorie counts on third-party platforms was even lower.

Four popular chain restaurants had calories posted for every item reviewed by the researchers on all online platforms. But the researchers did not find any calorie information posted at the point of selection on any of the online menus from four other popular chains.

The FDA paused its enforcement of menu labeling requirements in April 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 public health emergency, but has promised to resume enforcement in November 2023. This means restaurants that aren't following the rules may soon find themselves subject to penalties.

The FDA has previously said that third-party platforms aren't covered by federal menu labeling laws. But the researchers found that restaurant chains generally have the ability to add calorie information when posting menus on third-party platforms, which boosts the case for the FDA to hold the restaurants accountable for following federal rules when posting on those platforms. The researchers called for clarification as to whether the chain restaurants can be held accountable for menus they post to the platforms.

"Restaurants can provide calorie information online, but we found that some are choosing not to," says study author Eva Greenthal, N19, MG19, Senior Policy Scientist at Center for Science in the Public Interest. "As more and more restaurant ordering happens online, responsible companies will make sure that their customers have all the information they need to make informed choices no matter where they order."

"While ordering from third-party apps wasn't nearly as popular when menu labeling was first established under the Affordable Care Act, both the FDA's regulation and industry practice should reflect the reality of how people are ordering their food today," said Sean Cash, an economist and Bergstrom Foundation Professor in Global Nutrition at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University and senior author on the study.

"Consistent access to calorie labeling helps consumers make informed choicesand this should be available regardless of where the menu is posted."

More information: Eva Greenthal et al, Availability of calorie information on online menus from chain restaurants in the USA: current prevalence and legal landscape, Public Health Nutrition (2023). DOI: 10.1017/S1368980023001799 Journal information: Public Health Nutrition
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Combination immunotherapy with the anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibody durvalumab and other novel agents outperforms durvalumab alone in the neoadjuvant (pre-surgical) setting for early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), according to researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

The findings, published in Cancer Discovery, were first presented at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2022.

The multicenter, randomized Phase II NeoCOAST clinical trial evaluated neoadjuvant durvalumab alone and in combination with each of the following novel immunotherapies: the anti-CD73 monoclonal antibody oleclumab, the anti-NKG2A monoclonal antibody monalizumab, and the anti-STAT3 antisense oligonucleotide danvatirsen. While the study was not statistically powered to compare arms, all combinations resulted in numerically higher major pathological response (MPR) rates than with durvalumab monotherapy.

"This study builds on the growing evidence that combination immunotherapy has a role in the neoadjuvant setting for this patient population," said Tina Cascone, MD., Ph.D., associate professor of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology and lead author of the study. "Ultimately, we want to give patients a chance to live longer without their cancer returning."

The NeoCOAST trial adds to recent progress in neoadjuvant treatment for NSCLC, including the Phase II NEOSTAR study results published in Nature Medicine, which showed nivolumab and ipilimumab together induced higher responses than nivolumab alone, and the March 2022 approval of nivolumab combined with platinum-based chemotherapy from the Checkmate-816 study. The durvalumab combinations tested previously in the Phase II COAST trial were shown to be effective in unresectable stage III NSCLC, providing rationale for testing in earlier stage disease.

The NeoCOAST study enrolled 84 patients with untreated, resectable (>2cm), stage I-IIIA NSCLC, between March 2019 and September 2020. Most patients were male (59.5%) and had a smoking history (89%). The median age was 67.5, and the racial breakdown was 89% white, 6% Black, 2% Asian and 2% other. Eighty-three patients received one 28-day cycle of neoadjuvant durvalumab alone or combined with another therapy.

The primary endpoint was investigator-assessed MPR, defined as 10% residual viable tumor cells in the resected tumor tissue and sampled nodes at surgery. The investigators assessed pathological complete response (pCR), or complete disappearance of viable tumor cells, as a secondary endpoint. Exploratory endpoints included tumor, fecal and blood biomarkers.

All combinations had numerically higher rates of MPR and pCR than monotherapy, and there were no statistically significant differences in responses between the combination arms:

For the patients who received durvalumab monotherapy, MPR occurred in 11.1% and pCR in 3.7%, which is comparable to results from other monotherapy studies.

MPR rates for combination therapy ranged from 19% (oleclumab) to 31.3% (danvatirsen), and pCR rates ranged from 9.5% (with oleclumab) to 12.5% (with danvatirsen). For combination therapy with monalizumab, MPR was 30% and pCR was 10%.

The safety profile in the durvalumab monotherapy arm (treatment-related adverse events in 34.6% of patients) was similar to previously published data for anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies. No new safety signals were identified with any of the combination regimens (treatment-related adverse events seen in 43.8% to 57.1% of patients).

MPR was associated with baseline tumor PD-L1 expression of 1% in the oleclumab and monalizumab combination arms. In the oleclumab (anti-CD73) combination arm, high baseline CD73 expression was associated with pathological tumor regression, and treatment decreased CD73 expression on tumor cells, as previously observed in other studies.

The oleclumab combination also was associated with greater natural killer (NK) and CD8 T cell density in the tumor center on treatment compared with baseline, suggesting an increased infiltration of effector cells in the tumor microenvironment.

Updated translational studies on tumor tissues and blood samples revealed the impact of neoadjuvant treatment on the immune system. Transcriptome analysis on pre- and post-treatment samples showed an upregulation of genes associated with cytotoxicity, tertiary lymphoid structures and lymphocyte recruitment, all indicators of an activated immune response.

The number of patients with no detected circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) increased progressively from pre-to post-treatment and post-surgery follow up, highlighting the relationship between decreasing ctDNA levels and improved patient outcomes. Notably, surgery was the most effective intervention to result in clearance of ctDNA. Researchers also found an enrichment of beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiome of patients who achieved MPR. These bacteria were previously associated with a favorable immunotherapy response across several cancer types.

"Our study is a testament to how clinical trials designed with translational findings in mind can support the rapid advancement of novel immune-based combinations to larger scale studies," Cascone said. "I'm encouraged by these early findings as we work toward reducing the risk of recurrence and increasing cure rates for patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer."

Limitations of the study include the exploratory nature of the endpoints, small sample sizes and investigator-assessed outcomes without central review.

Based on these results and the recent approval of neoadjuvant nivolumab plus chemotherapy, the team has launched a follow-up randomized clinical trial, NeoCOAST-2, with Cascone serving as the global principal investigator. The trial is now enrolling patients with resectable, stage IIA-IIIA NSCLC to receive neoadjuvant durvalumab combined with chemotherapy and either oleclumab or monalizumab or other novel and promising immuno-oncology (I-O) agents, followed by surgery and adjuvant durvalumab plus oleclumab or monalizumab or other I-O agents.
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:

Kinetics of mixed chimerism in the Kidney Tx + HC experimental group (N = 6) as measured by short tandem repeats (STR) in the: (A) peripheral blood, and (B) bone marrow. Animals E1 and E5 achieved transient mixed chimerism in the peripheral blood and bone marrow. Animals E2, E6, E9 and E11 did not achieve chimerism. Bone marrow was not examined for chimerism in animal E11. Credit: Transplant International (2023). DOI: 10.3389/ti.2023.11279

Successful kidney transplants rely on the biological compatibility of the donor and recipient but still require long-term use of drugs to tamp down the recipient's immune system and prevent donor organ rejection. Finding a method to increase compatibility can help recipients tolerate a life-saving organ transplant without the lifelong need for anti-rejection medications.

A relatively recent approach that improves donor and recipient biocompatibility induces tolerance by combining irradiation of part of the kidney recipient's immune system and an infusion of donor immune cells. This creates a dual immune system in the recipient. However, this approach has only been successful when important features of the donor's and recipient's immune systems are identical matches.

Transplant specialists at the University of WisconsinMadison and Stanford University have developed the new approach, described in a non-human primate model, that may help kidney transplant prospects even when they are less closely matched to donors and in the absence of immunosuppressant drugs.

The research team, led by Dixon Kaufman, a UWMadison professor of surgery and director of the UW Health Transplant Center, sought to maintain kidney function without rejection in a monkey model resembling human transplants. They also sought to avoid graft-versus-host-disease, a transplant complication in which immune cells from the donor attack its new host.

The experimental transplant protocol, published recently in the journal Transplant International, included 11 monkeys at the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center that were more loosely matched by tissue type than what has previously been accomplished for human donor-recipient pairs.

Two key strings of tissue typing proteins on the surface of cells, known as major histocompatibility antigens, help the immune system recognize parts of its own body as "self." This protects the body from invaders that have different tissue antigens and are recognized as "non-self," thus setting off an immune response. The monkeys in the tolerance induction study had just one match among the two key protein strings, while human transplant pairings previously successful with tolerance induction required two matches.

One day after these monkeys received transplanted donor kidneys, the researchers used thin beams of radiation, delivered by a technique called TomoTherapy, developed at UWMadison in the 1990s, to irradiate key parts of the animals' immune systems and temporarily suppress them. Ten days after their transplants, the monkeys received an infusion of blood and immune cells from their kidney donors.

The researchers hoped to induce what is called a mixed chimeric state in the recipientsan immune system that is the combination of two animals: part kidney donor, part kidney recipient. Creating mixed chimerism would increase biocompatibility despite tissue typing incompatibility and keep the recipient from identifying the new organ as an intruder and attacking it.

All animals in the study were then weaned off all immunosuppressant drugs. While the chimeric state came and went in some of the monkeys, two monkeys maintained chimeric immune systems. Those two animals remained healthy with normal kidney function with their transplanted organs for more than four years, never developing either a rejection response or graft-versus-host-disease, and without requiring drugs to keep their own immune systems at bay.

"This is the longest duration of tolerance induction reported in this kind of animal model," Kaufman says. "Although more challenging compared to identically matched pairs, this protocol shows that it is feasible to achieve long-term tolerance between more distantly related pairs with tissue incompatibility."

More research aimed at improving the rate of mixed chimerism is necessary, the researchers say, and more studies of the mechanisms underlying mixed-chimerism-based tolerance are underway to help find better methods for inducing the state.

"Knowledge gained through the rhesus tolerance induction model could have direct relevance to a wide variety of donor transplants, including donations from deceased donors that are even more distantly related," Kaufman said. "This could dramatically expand the implementation of tolerance induction protocols beyond the limited pool of living related pairs."

More information: Dixon B. Kaufman et al, Helical TomoTherapy Total Lymphoid Irradiation and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Kidney Transplant Tolerance in Rhesus Macaques, Transplant International (2023). DOI: 10.3389/ti.2023.11279
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology

Researchers at VHIO, led by Dr. Cristina Saura, head of the VHIO Breast Cancer Group and the Breast Unit at Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, and Dr. Ana Vivancos, head of VHIO's Genomics laboratory, has shown for the first time that breast milk from breast cancer patients contains tumor DNA, known as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA).

This ctDNA can be detected through liquid biopsy in breast milk and could become a new tool for early diagnosis of breast cancer in the postpartum period. The results of this research have just been published in the journal Cancer Discovery.

The Vall d'Hebron University Hospital Breast Unit has a specific multidisciplinary unit to treat women diagnosed with breast cancer during pregnancy or during the postpartum period. "During all the years that this unit has been operating," explains Dr. Saura, "we have observed that breast cancer patients who are diagnosed during pregnancy or, especially, during the postpartum period, have a worse prognosis because they are diagnosed at more advanced stages of the disease." This is why new and effective early detection methods are needed to detect these tumors.

"The physiological changes that occur in the breast during pregnancy and postpartum make tumors more difficult to detect; we have also observed that biologically, postpartum tumors are more aggressive, and women become pregnant at ages when population screening with mammography is not yet carried out. In Spain, for example, these check-ups do not start until they reach the age of 50."

A project that began because of a patient's concerns

Biomedical research, unlike other fields of science, relies on the participation, experience, and involvement of patients either because of their generosity in taking part in clinical trials or because they ask scientists questions from a completely different perspective.

In this case it was the concerns of a breast cancer patient diagnosed while pregnant with her third daughter. She was concerned that she had passed the tumor through her breast milk to her second daughter during breastfeeding, which had been long and had lasted until shortly before her breast cancer diagnosis.

"The patient" explains Dr. Saura "brought us a sample of breast milk that she had stored in her freezer. So, thanks to her, that's where our project started, because although we know that breast cancer is not transmitted through breast milk, we decided to analyze the sample in search of markers that could help us in our research. And indeed, when we analyzed the patient's breast milk, we found DNA with the same mutation that was present in her tumor. The breast milk had been frozen more than a year before the patient's cancer diagnosis."

Liquid biopsy in breast cancer

Liquid blood biopsy is currently used in patients with metastatic breast cancer for the detection or monitoring of certain mutations, but it still has low sensitivity as a tool for early diagnosis or predicting relapse as it requires a very high amount of circulating tumor DNA in the blood to be detected.

In recent years, liquid biopsy has been developed to screen urine for bladder cancer or saliva for head and neck cancer. "So we thought that, because of its proximity to the tumor, breast milk could be an alternative source for detecting the tumor by liquid biopsy," says Dr. Ana Vivancos.

The article outlines the first results of the study. The researchers collected breast milk and blood samples from breast cancer patients diagnosed during pregnancy or postpartum, as well as from healthy women who were breastfeeding.

"We analyzed the breast milk and blood samples using two techniques, Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)," explains Dr. Ana Vivancos. "And we found that there was free circulating DNA of tumor origin in the breast milk. We were able to detect mutations which were present in the tumors of patients with breast cancer in the samples of breast milk of 13 of the 15 patients analyzed. Whereas, in the blood samples collected at the same time, ctDNA was only detected in one of them."

"The breast milk samples of the two patients in whom the mutation was not detected had been collected within the first hours of lactation and were colostrum", explains Dr. Miriam Sanso, lead author and postdoctoral researcher in the Cancer Genomics laboratory during the study, "so we deduced that probably not enough time had passed for the tumor DNA to have been released into the milk. So we have since decided to take breast milk samples at least two weeks after initiating breastfeeding."

"We have shown for the first time that breast milk obtained from breast cancer patients contains sufficient ctDNA to be detected by liquid biopsy and that this ctDNA can be detected even before breast cancer can be diagnosed using conventional imaging," states Dr. Cristina Saura.

"Our next step in making this discovery practically useful was to design an NGS-based genomic panel as a possible method of early diagnosis in breast cancer," says Dr. Vivancos. Based on publicly available data, the researchers designed the VHIO-YWBC gene panel to detect the most frequent mutations present in women with breast cancer diagnosed before the age of 45.

The panel has "a sensitivity of more than 70%. This means that, of the samples from our patients tested with this panel, 7 out of 10 cases would have been detected with a specificity of 100%."

"This panel could be used in the future as a method for the early diagnosis of breast cancer in the postpartum period," explains Dr. Saura. "In the same way that a heel prick is performed on all newborns, collecting a breast milk sample from all women after birth for breast cancer screening could also be considered."

"We analyzed the blood and breast milk samples that we had collected in the follow-up at eight and eleven months postpartum and found the cases of high-risk women included in the study further reinforces this idea of using the designed gene panel and liquid breast milk biopsy to advance the early diagnosis of breast cancer. This was a healthy woman who wanted to participate in the study when she became pregnant with her first child at the age of 46."

"18 months after giving birth to her son, she was diagnosed with breast cancer as a result of breast ultrasound scans as part of the follow-up. The mutation in the patient's tumor was already present in the breast milk of the affected breast at eleven months postpartum, 6 months before the breast ultrasound diagnosis. We did not detect the mutation in the blood or the milk samples from the healthy breast and therefore could have diagnosed the tumor six months earlier with the use of this technique," concludes Dr. Carolina Ortiz, researcher in the breast cancer group at VHIO and lead uthor of the article, together with Dr. Saura.

The next step in confirming the usefulness of using breast milk as a new liquid biopsy tool for the early detection of breast cancer in the postpartum period is to perform this non-invasive test on thousands of women. Based on the results published today, we are initiating a study to collect breast milk samples from 5,000 healthy women worldwide who became pregnant at 40 years of age or older, or at any age who carry mutations that increase their risk of breast cancer (BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, RAD51C/D).

"Our results open the door to the future use of breast milk as a new source of liquid biopsy for the early detection of breast cancer in the postpartum period using a non-invasive technique," affirms Dr. Cristina Saura.

"Before this technique can be put into practice, these results need to be confirmed in a larger number of patients, but the results published to date are encouraging and offer a potential new tool for the early diagnosis of breast cancer in a particularly sensitive population of young women and mothers. The best way to continue to increase the survival and cure of breast cancer patients is to detect it as early as possible and this is a new strategy that could greatly help us in this regard."

More information: Cristina Saura et al, Early-Stage Breast Cancer Detection in Breast Milk, Cancer Discovery (2023). DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.CD-22-1340 Journal information: Cancer Discovery

Provided by Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology
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:

AWARE-II study team practicing brain monitoring methods. Credit: NYU Langone Health

Up to an hour after their hearts had stopped, some patients revived by cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) had clear memories afterward of experiencing death, and while unconscious, had brain patterns linked to thought and memory, report investigators in the journal Resuscitation.

In a study led by researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, in cooperation with 25 mostly US and British hospitals, some survivors of cardiac arrest described lucid death experiences that occurred while they were seemingly unconscious. Despite immediate treatment, fewer than 10% of the 567 patients studied, who received CPR in the hospital, recovered sufficiently to be discharged. Four in 10 of patients who survived, however, recalled some degree of consciousness during CPR not captured by standard measures.

The study also found that in a subset of these patients, who received brain monitoring, nearly 40% had brain activity that returned to normal, or nearly normal, from a "flatline" state, at points even an hour into CPR. As captured by EEG, a technology that records brain activity with electrodes, the patients saw spikes in the gamma, delta, theta, alpha, and beta waves associated with higher mental function.

Survivors have long reported having heightened awareness and powerful, lucid experiences, say the study authors. These have included a perception of separation from the body, observing events without pain or distress, and a meaningful evaluation of their actions and relationships. This new work found these experiences of death to be different from hallucinations, delusions, illusions, dreams, or CPR-induced consciousness.

The study authors hypothesize that the "flatlined," dying brain removes natural inhibitory (braking) systems. These processes, known collectively as disinhibition, may open access to "new dimensions of reality," they say, including lucid recall of all stored memories from early childhood to death, evaluated from the perspective of morality. While no one knows the evolutionary purpose of this phenomenon, it "opens the door to a systematic exploration of what happens when a person dies."

Senior study author Sam Parnia, MD, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Medicine at NYU Langone Health and director of critical care and resuscitation research at NYU Langone, says, "Although doctors have long thought that the brain suffers permanent damage about 10 minutes after the heart stops supplying it with oxygen, our work found that the brain can show signs of electrical recovery long into ongoing CPR. This is the first large study to show that these recollections and brain wave changes may be signs of universal, shared elements of so-called near-death experiences."

Dr. Parnia adds, "These experiences provide a glimpse into a real, yet little understood dimension of human consciousness that becomes uncovered with death. The findings may also guide the design of new ways to restart the heart or prevent brain injuries and hold implications for transplantation."

Called the AWAreness during REsuscitation (AWARE)-II study, it followed 567 men and women who suffered cardiac arrest during hospital stays between May 2017 and March 2020 in the United States and United Kingdom. Only hospitalized patients were enrolled to standardize the CPR and resuscitation methods used, as well as recording methods for brain activity.

A subset of 85 patients received brain monitoring during CPR. Additional testimony from 126 community survivors of cardiac arrest with self-reported memories was also examined to provide greater understanding of the themes related to the recalled experience of death.

The study authors conclude that research to date has neither proven nor disproven the reality or meaning of patients' experiences and claims of awareness in relation to death. They say the recalled experience surrounding death merits further empirical investigation, and they plan to conduct studies that more precisely define biomarkers of clinical consciousness and that monitor the long-term psychological effects of resuscitation after cardiac arrest.

More information: Sam Parnia et al, AWAreness during REsuscitationII: A multi-center study of consciousness and awareness in cardiac arrest, Resuscitation (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2023.109903
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:

Representative swimming paths of the rats in the probe trial in the four groups. The yellow circles indicate the probe platform. Credit: Bosnian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences

Research by experts from Ningbo Eye Hospital and Hwa Mei Hospital at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences provides insight into a critical issue facing surgical patients: post-operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD).

Post-operative cognitive dysfunction, commonly abbreviated as POCD, is a neurological complication that some patients experience after undergoing surgical procedures that require anesthesia. It manifests as a noticeable decline in cognitive abilities, specifically impacting areas like learning, memory, concentration, and even causing changes in personality.

According to an article published in the Bosnian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, traditional treatments for POCD mainly focus on regulating nutrition and fluid balance, maintaining electrolytes, and providing psychological support. Some patients are also given neurotrophic drugs to support nerve growth and health.

The issue at hand: Cognitive risks after anesthesia

Anesthesia is a medical practice involving the administration of drugs to block sensation, making patients unconscious or insensitive to pain during surgical or diagnostic procedures. The practice encompasses various forms: general anesthesia for whole-body unconsciousness, regional anesthesia for blocking sensation in a specific body area, and local anesthesia for numbing a particular site.

Anesthetic agents act on the central nervous system by targeting specific neurotransmitter receptors to inhibit nerve impulses, which alters perception, motor function, and consciousness. While essential for pain management in surgeries, anesthesia is not without risks.

Sevoflurane, a widely-used anesthetic, has been identified as a significant factor contributing to postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). Belonging to the fluorinated ether class of anesthetics, sevoflurane is commonly used to induce and maintain general anesthesia. Its rapid onset and offset make it suitable for a variety of surgical procedures.

While generally considered safe and effective, sevoflurane has been linked to certain neurocognitive deficits, including POCD. Research indicates that exposure to sevoflurane can cause pathological changes in the brain, such as amyloid-beta (A) deposition and fibrin tangles in the hippocampus, which are associated with cognitive impairment. Alarmingly, these effects have also been observed in the offspring of rats exposed to the drug during pregnancy.

Given these findings, mitigating the risk factors or symptoms of POCD, especially those induced by sevoflurane, has become an urgent priority for clinicians and researchers alike.

Enter resveratrol: The natural brain protector

Resveratrol, often abbreviated as RES, is a bioactive compound found in certain foods like peanuts, grapes, and blueberries. It has the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, meaning it can directly interact with the central nervous system (CNS). This compound has garnered attention for its multi-faceted biological effects, including its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic (cell-death preventing) properties.

In the context of neuroscience and medicine, RES is a known agonist for Silent Information Regulator 1 (SIRT1), a protein that has various neuroprotective roles.

By binding to and activating SIRT1, RES can have a protective effect on the brain. For example, it aids in regulating the growth and differentiation of neurons, can prevent cell death, and has shown promise in combating conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Moreover, RES has demonstrated its capability to modulate pathways like the cAMP/AMPK/SIRT1, which is particularly relevant in providing neuroprotective effects in stroke scenarios. It can also regulate inflammation, offering potential benefits for aging and age-related diseases.

Previous research has shown that RES could improve cognitive impairments in newborn mice that were exposed to sevoflurane (SEV). However, this effect had not yet been studied in adult animal models.

The aim of this study was to fill that knowledge gap. It explored the role of the SIRT1/RhoA signaling pathway in the neurotoxic effects caused by long-term exposure to SEV. Moreover, the study looked into how administering RES before and after surgery could potentially mitigate cognitive impairment in adult rats exposed to SEV.

Experimental Procedures and Protocols

The study used 76 adult male rats of a specific kind called Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. SD rats are a common type of lab rat that scientists use for research. They're chosen because they're easy to handle and have a well-understood biology, which makes them good for studying how diseases work or how different treatments might work. Think of them as the "standard model" when scientists need to test something in a living creature before they can consider trying it in humans.

These rats weighed between 280320 grams and were 810 weeks old. They were kept in a special, controlled environment that met ethical guidelines for animal research.

How the SEV model works

The "SEV model" is a way to study the effects of the sevoflurane (SEV) on rats. In this experiment, rats are placed in special boxes and breathe in a mixture of 3% sevoflurane and 40% oxygen for six hours. During this time, scientists carefully watch the rats to make sure they're breathing normally and aren't showing any signs of stress.

After the six hours, the rats are allowed to wake up and are returned to their usual living spaces. This model helps researchers understand how long-term exposure to this anesthesia gas might affect the brain and other parts of the body.

As the researchers were interested in RES, they dissolved it in a chemical called dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and then diluted it with saline so it could be easily injected into the rats. DMSO is a chemical that's often used as a "carrier" to help other substances get where they need to go. They injected it into the rats' body cavities at three different doses, either a day before or an hour after the SEV exposure.

Types of tests conducted on rats

Two days after the SEV exposure, the researchers used the Negative Geotaxis Test to check a rat's balance and coordination. In this test, a rat is placed head-down on a sloping board. The goal is to see how quickly the rat can turn itself right-side-up. This helps gauge how well the rat's brain and muscles are coordinating.

Two weeks after the SEV exposure, the researchers placed the rats on a rotating rod to see how long they could stay on it. This is known as the Rotarod Test.

The Rotarod Test is essentially a treadmill challenge for rats. In this test, a rat is put on a spinning rod, and the goal is to measure how long the rat can stay on it without falling off. This helps researchers gauge the rat's balance, coordination, and motor skills. It serves as a way to check for long-term neurological issues in the rat, particularly after being exposed to certain treatments or conditions.

Memory and learning test: About three weeks after the SEV exposure, the researchers used a test known as the Morris Water Maze. This test evaluates how well rats can remember and find a hidden platform in a pool of water. In the Morris Water Maze, a rat is put into a pool with a submerged platform that it can't see. The rat has to swim around until it finds this hidden platform and climbs onto it.

Researchers keep track of how fast the rat locates the platform and how well it remembers the platform's location in subsequent tests. This provides insights into the rat's memory and learning abilities.

Checking protein levels in the brain

Finally, the researchers conducted a biochemical analysis using Western Blotting. This technique measures the levels of specific proteins in the rats' brain tissues, particularly those involved in cell death and signaling pathways, allowing for a detailed understanding of how SEV and RES affect the brain at the molecular level.

Think of Western Blotting like a blood test that's designed to detect specific markers or indicators of a condition. Just as a blood test can identify the levels of cholesterol or glucose to diagnose or monitor certain diseases, Western Blotting identifies specific proteins to understand cellular processes.

After exposing the rats to SEV and/or resveratrol, researchers extracted small samples of the rats' brain tissue and separated them into individual components. Using Western Blotting, they were able to identify specific proteins that serve as markers for various processes, like cell death or survival. By doing so, they gained a deeper understanding of the molecular events taking place inside the rat's brain cells.

Statistical tools used and results of the study

The researchers used specialized statistical tests, like one-way and two-way ANOVA, to make sense of the data. In simple terms, these tests act like advanced calculators to figure out if the changes seen in rats were because of the treatments or just random chance. A key value is "p < 0.05," meaning that results below this number are likely not random and are statistically significant.

In the study, 76 rats were tested, and all survived the different treatments. Three doses of resveratrol were given, and the medium dose worked the best. After being exposed to sevoflurane (SEV), the rats had problems with orientation and weight loss, but resveratrol helped them recover.

Tests also showed that resveratrol improved the rats' balance, motor skills, learning, and memory. At the molecular level, resveratrol acted like a "first-aid kit," reversing changes caused by SEV exposure. Overall, resveratrol seems promising for countering SEV's negative effects on rats' behavior and cellular health.

The study aimed to assess whether resveratrol could mitigate brain damage induced by SEV, a common anesthetic. SEV exposure resulted in brain cell damage and impaired learning and memory in rats.

Resveratrol effectively prevented these issues, particularly when administered preemptively before SEV exposure. This implies that employing resveratrol as a preventive measure could prove especially advantageous for individuals susceptible to postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). Nevertheless, while the study yielded valuable insights, there remain avenues for further investigation. For instance, given the study's exclusive focus on male rats, it's imperative to broaden the research scope to encompass female subjects.

In summary, resveratrol demonstrates significant potential in shielding against brain and cognitive impairments arising from SEV exposure in rats. Administering it prior to exposure appears to amplify its protective efficacy, likely through the SIRT1/RhoA pathway.

More information: Qiaoyun Zhou et al, Resveratrol ameliorates neuronal apoptosis and cognitive impairment by activating the SIRT1/RhoA pathway in rats after anesthesia with sevoflurane, Bosnian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences (2021). DOI: 10.17305/bjbms.2021.5997
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: CC0 Public Domain

When someone has a stroke, every second counts. Identifying the symptoms and calling 911 quickly can make the difference between life and death or long-term disability. According to American Stroke Association stroke survey data, only 39% of Hispanic-Latino consumers said they were familiar with the English stroke warning sign acronym, F.A.S.T., and only 42% could correctly name two stroke warning signs unaided.

To help close the gap between knowledge and action, the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, is launching Juntos Contra el Derrame Cerebral, a culturally relevant Spanish-language campaign to raise awareness among Spanish-dominant audiences around the use and understanding of R.A.P.I.D.O., a Spanish acronym for stroke warning signs that can help save lives.

Hispanic-Latino adults in the U.S. have a higher risk of stroke due to unmanaged risk factors, limited access to health care, lower health literacy rates, cultural barriers and socioeconomic determinants of health. Hispanic-Latino stroke patients also have longer delay times to hospital arrival than non-Hispanic stroke patients, greater stroke severity and poorer outcomes following stroke.

Juntos Contra el Derrame Cerebral aims to increase awareness of R.A.P.I.D.O., address health disparities and ultimately improve stroke outcomes in the Hispanic-Latino community. The acronym is constructed to teach the five warning signs of stroke and the need to call 911 for quick medical response.

The Association seeks to empower the Hispanic-Latino community to learn the stroke warning signs and what to do using the R.A.P.I.D.O. acronym. This approach considers the community's unique cultural and linguistic needs, facilitating better comprehension and response to stroke symptoms. The easy-to-remember acronym stands for:

RRostro caido (Face drooping)

AAlteracion del equilibrio (Loss of Balance, or Lack of Coordination)

PPerdida de fuerza en el brazo (Arm weakness)

IImpedimento visual repentino (Sudden vision difficulty)

DDificultad para hablar (Slurred or Strange Speech)

OObten ayuda, llama al 911 (Get help, call 911)

Projections show that by 2030, the prevalence of stroke among Hispanic men will increase by 29%.The Association's adoption and promotion of R.A.P.I.D.O. represents significant steps in addressing the lack of awareness of the increased risk of stroke faced by Hispanic-Latino people in the U.S., a group already disproportionately impacted.

"R.A.P.I.D.O. is a tool that can help save lives," said Jose Biller, M.D., an American Stroke Association volunteer expert and professor and chair of Neurology at Loyola University Chicago's Stritch School of Medicine. "The language barrier is among the most significant barriers to health care access and quality. Understanding which Spanish acronym resonated best with Spanish-speaking communities addresses this barrier while increasing stroke awareness and improving outcomes for all."

The R.A.P.I.D.O. acronym was developed by a group of stroke experts at UTHealth Houston, many of whom are also American Stroke Association volunteers. The Association conducted scientific research to test the acronym's effectiveness among Hispanic-Latino people who speak only or predominantly Spanish.

"The research to identify which Spanish acronym worked best for the Hispanic-Latino community was critical because the acronym reminds people what to look for and to 'act fast' when they are having a stroke or see someone having one. These symptoms are sudden and must be recognized quickly for the person to receive the appropriate treatment as soon as possible," said Jennifer Beauchamp, Ph.D., R.N., an associate professor at Cizik School of Nursing and the UTHealth Houston Institute for Stroke and Cerebrovascular Disease.

Beauchamp, who led a team of nursing students who came up with the idea for the acronym, is an American Stroke Association volunteer expert.

Achieving health equity requires a multifaceted approach, including targeted education, accessible resources and community engagement. The American Stroke Association's Juntos Contra el Derrame Cerebral campaign includes a public service announcement highlighting R.A.P.I.D.O., featuring Miami stroke survivor and Association volunteer Noelia Gutierrez.

A catchy jingle that helps people memorize R.A.P.I.D.O. and social and digital assets have also been developed to raise awareness about stroke and the importance of timely response within the Hispanic-Latino community.

By leveraging the cultural relevance of R.A.P.I.D.O. and spreading awareness about stroke prevention within the Hispanic-Latino community, the Association, along with individuals, health care professionals, community organizations and more, aims to increase knowledge of stroke signs, symptoms, immediate management and modifiable risk factors of stroke, helping bridge the gap in stroke disparities and work towards achieving health equity for all people.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

The Ophidascaris robertsi larvae specimen was extracted from the womans brain by surgeons. Credit: Canberra Health

Many Australians likely read the coverage of the live roundworm found in the brain of a New South Wales woman with morbid curiosity. If you missed it, a wriggling, eight-centimeter-long parasitic roundworm was removed from the head of a 64-year-old woman complaining of headaches, depression and forgetfulness.

The patient likely picked up the parasite through eating foraged vegetables contaminated by python poo.

You may find it gross, but for researchers of parasites and infectious diseaseswho recently met in Darwin for the Annual Meeting for the Australian Society for Parasitologystories like this are fascinating but not particularly gross.

What we do find gross is the persistence of awful infectious diseases in situations where they are eminently preventable, and in countries that are rich enough to have eliminated them.

Particularly gross is the prevalence of infectious diseases in First Nations communities, despite those same infections being unknown or eradicated among non-Indigenous Australians.

In fact, as we heard at the conference, for some Indigenous and remote communities in Australia the problem of worms and other parasites is not only not improvingit's potentially worsening.

A discredit to Australia

Indigenous Australians bear a disproportionate health burden for a swathe of infectious diseases that are otherwise only a problem in the world's poorest countries.

It is an enduring discredit to our country that roundworm infections of humans are newsworthy and enthralling when reported in a Canberra hospital, but are widely ignored when they proliferate in Indigenous communities.

Like the snake parasite, many human-infecting worms belong to a group called soil-transmitted helminths, which means they are passed from animal to animal through contamination by contact with feces.

Several groups of soil-transmitted helminths are prevalent in Indigenous communities in both tropical and arid regions, although they have been virtually eliminated in Australian cities.

Last year, University of Melbourne parasite researchers measured the prevalence of human infection by one type of wormthe hookwormat between 52% and 61% in Australian Indigenous communities. These same hookworms are largely eradicated in non-Indigenous communities and in most other wealthy countries.

More worrying was the finding that an even more serious and potentially deadly worm, the threadworm Strongyloides, infected 19 percent of people in remote Indigenous communities, with no clear improvement in these rates over the last 40 to 50 years.

The scabies mite is known only as a historic curiosity in most non-Indigenous communities, but as many as one third of children in remote Indigenous communities grow up with scabies infections, increasing their risk of chronic kidney or heart disease requiring dialysis or heart surgery.

In fact, these infectious diseases are so neglected that we don't realistically know how many people in remote communities have them, or how much sickness and death they cause.

Giving a voice to health

The National Agreement on Closing the Gap was launched in 2008, and its first listed target was to reduce the life expectancy gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians within a generation, by 2031.

Despite improvements in some states, we are not on track to meet this target, and for women in the Northern Territory, the gap is actually worsening.

As Indigenous leader Noel Pearson noted at the recent Garma Festival, infectious diseases that disproportionately impact Indigenous Australians (including scabies, hookworms, trachoma, and Streptococcus bacteria that cause rheumatic heart disease) attract little comment in our national parliament, even by those parliamentarians who represent regions where these diseases are endemic.

Tragically, up to 90% of children in remote Indigenous communities have middle ear infections that threaten long term hearing problems.

More than a quarter of all Indigenous children have measured hearing loss, which can impact literacy and speech development. As well as losing their hearing, these children remain voiceless in our parliament and constitution.

Closing the gap

One potential benefit of an Indigenous Voice to Parliament might be the articulation of the story of the infectious disease burden that is too often unheard.

In New Zealand, government provision of health care and prevention of communicable disease now explicitly considers how they meet the obligations of the Treaty of Waitangian agreement now recognized as a constitutional relationship between Maori and the Crown.

As a result, although considerable gaps in health outcomes exist between Maori and non-Maori people, disparities have reduced, in an approach that Australia might learn from.

In Australia, Indigenous bodies like the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organization (NACCHO) provide wise and informed advice to the Australian government, but the government can freely ignore this advice without comment.

Some of the major factors that contribute to high parasite prevalence in Indigenous communities can be tangibly and practically addressed: overcrowding, poor quality and insufficient maintenance of housing, and lack of functional infrastructure for laundry and washing.

But as with many other priority areas, the Closing the Gap 2031 targets for appropriate housing for Indigenous Australians are not on track to be met.

Ultimately, we need to listen deeply to Indigenous voices (constitutionally enshrined or otherwise) and let these urgent issues take the prominent place they deserve until they're resolvedlike a worm in our national consciousness.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

LSU Health New Orleans research led by Stuart Chalew, MD, Professor of Pediatrics at LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine, has found that HbA1c, a major metric of diabetes management, is markedly higher in black youth compared to whites at any level of mean blood glucose. The findings are published online in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology.

"We found that HbA1c overestimates mean blood glucose levels in African-American patients with diabetes," notes Dr. Chalew. "This can lead to increased occurrence of hypoglycemia in African-American patients if HbA1c is primarily used to guide insulin management of diabetes."

The cross-sectional study was done using state-of-the-art continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and confirms prior data from the LSU Health New Orleans pediatric endocrinology group in children with less sophisticated measures of glucose levels.

The research team gathered data from 118 otherwise healthy youth treated at Children's Hospital of New Orleans33 black and 85 white patients with type 1 diabetes. Their mean age was 14.7, with an average age at diagnosis of 8.7 years, and who had diabetes for an average of 5.4 years. Fifty-one were male, and 67 were female. The researchers compared glycemic data from a factory-calibrated CGM with HbA1c taken from a venous blood draw on the day of the clinic visit. HbA1c was further evaluated by race, adjusting for other covariables of interest.

The authors write, "Using glucose metrics from CGMs, this study clearly documents that in addition to the well-known high correlation between HbA1c and mean blood glucose, there is a large clinically relevant and statistically significant difference in HbA1c between otherwise healthy black and white youth with type 1 diabetes which is independent of mean blood glucose and other covariates."

"The combination of mean blood glucose and race accounts for a very large amount of the variation in HbA1c in the study population. These data confirm findings from many prior reports of glucose-independent racial disparity in HbA1c, which relied on a limited number of blood glucose samples for comparison."

HbA1c has been widely used to predict diabetes complications because it is highly correlated with mean blood glucose levels and easily tested from a single blood sample.

"HbA1c also underestimates glucose time in range from continuous glucose monitors," adds Chalew. "Higher HbA1c at any given level of mean blood glucose in African-American patients potentially may contribute to increased long-term diabetes complications. Our results have important implications for the diagnosis and management of diabetes and preventing hypoglycemia."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as of 2019, 28.7 million people of all agesor 8.7% of the US populationhad diagnosed diabetes, and 283,000 children and adolescents younger than age 20 yearsor 35 per 10,000 US youthshad diagnosed diabetes. This includes 244,000 with type 1 diabetes. According to the Louisiana Department of Health, Louisiana was ranked ninth highest in the nation for adult diabetes in 2019, with a rate of 12.6%.

More information: Nicholas J. Christakis et al, Determination of Glucose-Independent Racial Disparity in HbA1c for Youth With Type 1 Diabetes in the Era of Continuous Glucose Monitoring, Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology (2023). DOI: 10.1177/19322968231199113
THAT GOSPEL parable about a landlord who leased his vineyard to tenants (cfr. Mt 21,33-43) reminds us that we should be faithful to whatever...
Visit theroxytheater.org for up-to-date screen times.

Opening

The Elephant 6 Recording Co.

Make your way through the black foliage in the aeroplane over the sea to the science faire to experience this far-out documentary about the evolution of 1990s psychedelic rock bands. Not Rated. Stars Neutral Milk Hotel, Apples in Stereo and Olivia Tremor Control, which are all real band names, apparently. Opening Friday, Sept. 15.

Continuing

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3

Opa! Nia Vardalos returns to the franchise that made her a star. The big fat Greek Portokalos family takes a trip to big fat Greece for a big fat Greek family reunion full of big fat Greek relatives, big fat Greek goats and a big fat Greek family mystery dating back generations. Rated PG-13. Also stars John Corbett, Andrea Martin and Joey Fatone, who we can all agree is the most successful member of NSYNC.

Bottoms

Lesbian best friends start a fight club in their high school so they can lose their virginity to cheerleaders, and, surprisingly, their plan works. But when things get out of hand, the two need to find a way out before their ruse is exposed. Rated R. Stars Ayo Edebiri, Rachel Sennott and Kaia Gerber. A lot of critics are calling this movie the queer Fight Club, but we already have a queer Fight Club. Its called Fight Club.

Barbie

Barbie has it all: A Dreamhouse, a pink 1956 Corvette and a whole collection of friends. But when she realizes that life in plastic isnt as fantastic as she thought, she and her himbo boyfriend set out on a quest to find answers. Rated PG-13. Stars Glitter Hair Barbie, Jam N Glam Barbie, Ocean Friends Barbie and Will Ferrell, who I am almost certain is playing his same character from The Lego Movie.

Special screenings

A Man Called Otto (2022)

Listen, its not that this cranky widower hates the world, its just that he cant stand the people in it. His misanthropy is challenged when a new family moves in next door, and he develops an unlikely friendship with the witty and outspoken woman at its head. Rated PG-13. Stars Tom Hanks (who were supposed to hate? Come on), Mariana Trevino and Rachel Heller. Playing for free to mark National Suicide Prevention Week, Thursday, Sept. 14.

Hot Fuzz (2007)

Hes the best cop London has ever seen. So good, in fact, that hes making everyone else look bad. Thats why hes been transferred to a small village. The sleepy little town, however, holds a dark secret that only he can get to the bottom of. Which he does by shooting his gun up in the air and going Ahhhhhh! Rated R. Simon Pegg, Nick Frost and Olivia Colman star in Edgar Wrights hilarious send-up of action movies. Playing Friday, Sept. 15 as part of Inferno of Danger.

Get Out (2017)

The Roxy at 10 takes us back to 2017. We were baffled by tone-deaf Pepsi ads, watching a giraffe give birth on Facebook and sitting on the edge of our seats watching comedian Jordan Peeles terrifying directorial debut. A young Black man meets his girlfriends white parents only to find himself in a horrifying nightmare. Rated R. Stars Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams and Bradley Whitford. Playing Saturday, Sept. 16.

Brokeback Mountain (2005)

The tortured and sporadic love affair between two men begins when they meet while herding in Wyoming, but ends in tragedy. Ang Lee won the Best Director Oscar for his thoughtful and beautiful examination of unseen love. Rated R. Stars Heath Ledger, Jake Gyllenhall and Anne Hathaway. Playing Monday, Sept. 18 as part of Out at the Roxy. It really bugs me when people call this the gay cowboy movie. Theyre clearly herding sheep on that mountain.

Hereditary (2018)

The Roxy at 10 takes us to 2018. We were putting unicorns on everything, drinking oat milk and shivering in fear at Ari Asters nightmarish debut. Following a series of tragic deaths, the sanity of a suburban family begins to fray, but what if something more sinister is afoot? Everything should be fine as long as no one loses their head. Rated R. Stars Toni Collette (who gives an AMAZING performance), Milly Shapiro and Gabriel Byrne. Playing Wednesday, Sept. 20.

Watership Down (1978)

Based on the best-selling novel by Richard Adams, this animated classic traumatized a generation with its depiction of violence hitherto unseen in animated films. When a young rabbit is given a vision of the impending collapse of his warren, he leads a group of rabbits (voiced by a whos who of British character actors) through a horrific adventure in search of a new home. Rated PG, but dont bring your kids unless you want them to never sleep again. Stars the voice talents of John Hurt, Ralph Richardson and Denholm Elliott. Playing Thursday, Sept. 21 as part of Persistence of Vision.
A Polson police officer is facing a felony charge stemming from accusations of child sex abuse, local authorities reported on Thursday morning.

Polson Police Officer Matthew Timm was arrested by the Lake County Sheriffs Office on a sex abuse of children charge on Wednesday afternoon, according to a Polson Police Department press release.

The news release didnt provide information on the circumstances leading up to Timms arrest, but it said the investigation is ongoing. Lake County jail records showed Timm was in custody as of Thursday morning, but no bond was listed. Timm hasnt entered a plea yet.

Timms bond was set at $500,000 on Thursday in Lake County Justice Court, according to Lake County Attorney James Lapotka. Timms next court date is Oct. 31. A case affidavit detailing the allegations hasnt been filed yet, but likely will in the next week, Lapotka confirmed.

The PPD will continue to work with our partners in the criminal justice system to aid in this investigation, the news release stated. An internal employment investigation is also ongoing and no further information regarding his employment will be released at this time.

Our fundamental duty as officers is to serve mankind, safeguard lives and property, to protect the innocent against deception, the weak against oppression or intimidation, and the peaceful against violence or disorder. This is the mission, and we all took the oath dedicating ourselves to justice and honor. Officers who are found not honoring the oath have no place in this department, Polson Police Chief George Simpson said in the release.

The Polson Police Department cooperated with the Lake County Sheriffs Office and Montana Department of Justice leading up to the arrest.

In April, Polsons former police chief, Wade Nash, retired following a DUI arrest in Polson city limits. Nash retired, and Simpson was subsequently given the post as the departments new chief.
A 33-year-old man was killed in front of the Poverello Center Wednesday night after being hit by a passenger car, according to Missoula police.

The man was crossing West Broadway on foot just after 10 p.m. when he was struck by the car, according to the Missoula Police Department. The driver, a 48-year-old man, was fully cooperative with the investigation, police reported. He was driving east when the pedestrian was hit.

Impairment isnt a suspected cause of the collision. First responders gave the victim medical care on-scene, but he was pronounced dead when medical personnel got to the crash.

The victims name hasnt been released yet pending notification of his family members.

Traffic in both directions was blocked off on Wednesday night while law enforcement processed the crash scene. Montana Highway Patrol assisted in the investigation, as well.

This fatal crash comes just days after Missoula police reported two other deadly traffic incidents in the city, including a pedestrian fatality on South Avenue and a motorcyclist who was hit and killed on South Orange Street.

In their news release, police asked Missoulians to be cognizant about road safety, especially in regards to pedestrian awareness.

Drivers are encouraged to exercise caution and be vigilant for pedestrians at all times, especially during nighttime hours, the news release stated. Pedestrians are encouraged to use crosswalks and wear bright colored clothing at nighttime.
Three Winston-Salem men pleaded guilty Wednesday to second-degree murder charges and other offenses in connection with the fatal shooting of a 5-year-old boy in July 2019, authorities said.

Santiago Rodriguez Marcial, 20, Enedino Vicente Morales, 20, and Rudy Gomez-Medina, 18, also pleaded guilty to discharging a firearm into an occupied dwelling and discharging a firearm from within an enclosure, the Forsyth County District Attorneys Office said.

Judge Richard Gottlieb of Forsyth Superior Court sentenced Marcial, Morales and Gomez-Medina each to serve 13 years to 16 years and nine months in prison, the district attorneys office said.

Alberto Rios Navarette was playing in his parents living room at their apartment on Cole Ridge Circle on July 6, 2019 when a bullet fired from outside the home killed him, Winston-Salem police said at that time.

Navarettes parents and his then 3-year-old sister were also home during the shooting, police said.

In court, the boys family members expressed their grief about Navarettes death, the district attorneys office said. They wanted Gottlieb to sentence the defendants to serve lengthy prison terms.

Officers responded to the reported shooting on July 6, 2019 in the 2900 block of Cole Ridge Road, the district attorneys office said. Investigators determined that a bullet penetrated the living room wall in the boys apartment and struck him.

Navarette died the next day at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.

The lack of cooperation by witnesses hindered the work of police investigators, the district attorneys office said.

Detectives determined how many bullets were fired by the suspects, the district attorneys office said. The evidence showed that someone had fired at least 13 bullets near the boys apartment, and multiple guns were fired.

Investigators linked the shooting to Marcial, Morales and Gomez-Medina, the district attorneys office said. The trio occupied a 4-door silver car together on Cole Road and possessed guns on July 6, 2019.

Witnesses said all passengers and the driver were shooting guns from this vehicle when the boy was shot, the district attorneys office said.

Investigators also determined that the trio were members of a local street gang who were shooting in the direction of a rival gang member, the district attorneys office said.

That rival gang member, who was unharmed by the shooting, didnt cooperate with investigators, the district attorneys office said.

"Like any criminal case that this office prosecutes, we must have eyewitnesses willing to come forward and stand up for justice throughout the criminal process, District Attorney Jim ONeill said. If this does not happen, it makes it very difficult for law enforcement and prosecutors around the state to pursue true justice for the victims of crime."
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill issued an all clear message Wednesday afternoon following a report of an armed person near campus that locked down the university for over an hour.

It was the second lockdown at the university in less than three weeks. UNC Police reported no shots were fired. No injuries were reported.

On Wednesday, the Chapel Hill Police Department said Mickel Deonte Harris, 27, of Durham, was arrested around 2:45 p.m in the 300 block of Formosa Lane in Chapel Hill. He was arrested on outstanding warrants related to an assault on Sept. 5.

Charges for the incident on campus Wednesday are pending, UNC Police Chief Brian James said at a press conference Wednesday.

Charges in the warrant for the Sept. 5 incident include assault with a deadly weapon, communicating threats and going armed to the terror of the public. The incident report for that incident, obtained by The News & Observer, said he had a handgun at a convenience store.

The university issued an emergency Alert Carolina notification at 12:54 p.m. Wednesday saying there was an armed and dangerous person on or near campus and urging people to shelter in place. The alert followed a 911 call at 12:45 p.m., James said. The almost 10-minute delay between the call and the alert being issued was due to police working to confirm details of the event and making sure the call was credible, James said.

UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz said the incident began with reports of a person who brandished a weapon at the student union. According to witnesses, James said, the suspect confronted an employee at Alpine Bagel, an on-campus restaurant in the universitys student union, displayed a firearm and threatened the employee.

James said police were exploring the relationship between the employee and the suspect, but they believe there was some type of connection.

Guskiewicz said in a campus message Wednesday afternoon that the incident was related to a personnel matter at one of the universitys auxiliary units, which include on-campus services like dining.

University police are leading the investigation into Wednesdays incident, Chapel Hill police said.

Students frustrated after incident at Alpine Bagel on Chapel Hill campus

Emily Voncannon, a senior at UNC, told The N&O she had gotten in line at Alpine Bagel just before 1 p.m. and heard an argument taking place at the cash register. She then heard someone yell run or gun, and students began fleeing the building. Voncannon said she did not hear any gunshots.

The university issued two additional alerts, at 1:29 p.m. and 1:54 p.m., that urged people to continue sheltering in place on campus before the all-clear was announced at 2:12 p.m. James said the all-clear was issued prior to the arrest being made because police were able to confirm the suspect was no longer on campus.

The university said with the all-clear that it was safe to return to normal activities on campus. Students were seen coming out of buildings and congregating in the Pit, a common gathering spot at the center of campus just outside of the student union. Hundreds filled the area and socialized.

Standing with her friends and with an ice cream cone in hand, Karli Nichols was among the people in the big crowds outside of the student union building. Nichols was locked down in Lenoir Dining Hall along with hundreds of students who rushed in from outside in a chaotic scene outside the student union, where Alpine Bagel is located.

She expressed frustration at what had happened in her first month at the university.

Wednesdays incident came 16 days after the fatal on-campus shooting of Zijie Yan, an associate professor, on Aug. 28. That shooting sent the university campus into lockdown for more than three hours. Tailei Qi, a graduate student, is accused of first-degree murder in Yans death.

Im a little stressed out because we still have work to do ... (we have) midterms. And this is the second time this happens, Nichols told The N&O about 15 minutes after the lockdown was lifted. Were not updated on the situation, we had to find out from external sources. This is too much.

UNC campus police, Chapel Hill police, the Orange County sheriffs department and the North Carolina Highway Patrol could be seen on campus Wednesday afternoon.

I feel like they just dont care, said TKeyra Mack, also a first-year student. I hear students from different countries, theyre like, I come to a school in America and this is what happens?

On Tuesday, dozens of UNC students rallied at the state General Assembly to advocate for stricter gun laws following the shooting on Aug. 28.

A second lockdown after UNC professor shot and killed

Wednesdays incident is not related to the fatal on-campus shooting, Guskiewicz said, but the news of another armed person and a second lockdown on our campus is concerning and can be traumatic.

Its sad and alarming that there have now been two lockdowns over the past 16 days on our campus where weve had to apprehend individuals who have violated the safety and well-being of our community, Guskiewicz said Wednesday.

Katherine Snow Smith, a graduate student, was on campus Wednesday when the sirens sounded and ducked into a classroom in Phillips Hall. Smith told The N&O that being in the classroom was less frightening, compared to the dark and crowded closet in the student union where she hid just over two weeks ago.

Key thing: Everyone is in same class they were last time of shooting, she texted. About same time but a WednesdayAll students in same classroom with same teacher. Hiding under same desk.

Smith said the professor in the classroom Wednesday asked students if they wanted him to continue with class, and they voted yes, so he continued lecturing. But he quit early, she said, and though he first said he planned to leave for a meeting, he stayed to help a student with the lesson.

Some students left before the all clear, Smith said.

Later, when the message to stand down came across her phone, Smith noted the language.

All clear. All clear. Resume normal activities, it read.

Smiths response: Once again that word normal. They should change that before the next one. What a ridiculous way we live.

UNC asked to evaluate emergency response

At 12:41 p.m., the university sent out an email with information on a previously announced online portal for students, faculty, staff, parents and others to provide feedback on the universitys response to the Aug. 28 shooting. That email came less than 15 minutes before the first emergency message went out alerting campus of the new threat.

The email said the universitys emergency management and planning team will look at the emergency response on Aug. 28 and assess improvements to the Universitys emergency response plans over the next few months.

Elizabeth Thompson, a former News & Observer intern and research associate in the journalism school, was on a Zoom call in Carroll Hall Wednesday, explaining to the person on the other end that she was finally starting to feel normal after the shooting incident.

Then 30 minutes into the meeting we got another alert, she said in a text message to The N&O, as she sat under the desk in her office.

There were other people on the same floor as her, but she was alone, Thompson said. She started to hear police sirens and helicopters as soon as the alert went out, she said. She immediately texted her family and began to get a deluge of texts from friends checking in.

I can tell you this is the second time in three weeks Im spending the afternoon under my desk, she said. Its so surreal.

She also said they havent received much information from the university while they waited. That was the worst part of the last shooting, Thompson said. Sitting in my office alone for four hours and having no idea what was happening.

Its frightening, Chapel Hill mayor says

Wednesdays lockdown, as the previous one, had a ripple effect throughout Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Orange County.

Chapel Hill Mayor Pam Hemminger was fielding calls from police, people on UNCs campus and downtown businesses Wednesday afternoon as the all-clear went out.

I had people texting me from different places on campus trying to find out if I knew anything more, because they werent getting the alert in the areas where they were, she said.

Chapel Hill town staff moved to the towns emergency operations center during the lockdown to help, and Chapel Hill police officers responded to campus to provide backup assistance.

Its frightening, and Ive got my business community downtown not knowing. Locked doors. Not knowing because normally in these situations, somebody does leave campus, Hemminger said. Thats why we try to keep them updated through the downtown partnership.

Orange County put out its own message on the OC Alerts system to let residents who live in and around campus who may not be part of the universitys alert system to be notified of these kinds of activities, according to county spokesman Todd McGee. The new step was implemented after concerns from the Aug. 28 that UNC wasnt getting out information in a timely manner.

All schools in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools district were advised to enter secure mode while the university was on lockdown, the district said. Elementary schools were expected to be dismissed as normal at 2:35 p.m., though it may be slightly behind schedule due to todays events, the district said. Middle schools and high schools were expected to dismiss at their usual times, the district said.

Duke University issued a message to its campus community at 1:39 p.m. saying the university had stopped its bus service to UNC. Duke urged people to stay away from UNC during the incident.

Chapel Hill and university staff have been talking since the Aug. 28 shooting about how to collaborate better in emergency situations, Hemminger said, including the possibility of getting geofencing software.

We are meeting to talk about how we do it better because we have to make sure that people in the community know, especially those that are close to campus, because it affects them, too, she said.

Martha Quillin contributed to this report.
ANACONDA  As part of the Community Reading Series in support of the Anaconda Pride Foundation, the Anaconda Ensemble Theatre will present a special reading of The Strand that Beads You by Allison Fradkin at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23 in the lobby of the Washoe Theatre. Doors open at 1:45 p.m.

The Strand that Beads You is a theatre piece for young audiences that follows the story of Turquoise, a pony bead who wont get off her high horse. Magenta is a steed of a bead who doesnt hesitate to read her the riot act, and its not just their colors that clash. Can Rainbow Heart, a charm whos both intrusive and inclusive, hang in there long enough to string these beads together?

This show is recommended for all ages with all proceeds going to Anaconda Pride.

The show is produced by Jackie Vetter, directed by Emily Branch, with stage management by Heatherlynn Meeks. The cast features Trapper Bishop, Dez Brown, Kai Jackman, and Karlee Jane.

Tickets are $10 for seats and $5 standing room only. Advance tickets are recommended due to limited capacity by calling 406-200-8084 or visit https://anacondaensembletheatre.simpletix.com.
Former firearms industry executive and author Ryan Busse declared his bid as a Democrat for the governor's office on Thursday.

In a video posted to social media Thursday morning announcing the campaign, Busse took swipes at Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte's wealth, as well as policies on abortion, school funding and public lands access.

Despite never holding public office before, Busses name has been circulating as a potential Democratic challenger for months.

"There were a bunch of (final) straws," Busse said in a phone interview Thursday. "Im really worried about the way in which Gianforte and the Republican super-majority are attacking the state."

Along with the aforementioned issues, he said what "pushed me over the line" were housing affordability and tax policies enacted in recent years to assist corporations and the wealthy.

Busse, a 53-year-old Kalispell resident, has developed a growing public profile in recent years, beginning with his book "Gunfight: My Battle Against the Industry that Radicalized America."

Since then, his two sons were part of the high-profile landmark climate trial that took place in Helena earlier this year.

Busse has also appeared recently at political events, such as a July rally at the state Capitol to call on Gianforte publicly to reverse his decision to not accept $10 million in federal funding for a pandemic-era child nutrition program.

Montana, meanwhile, has been trending further and further into a monochromatic red state  no Democratic candidate has won a statewide election since 2018. That was U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, who is up for re-election this year and who Democrats hope will drive better turnout in 2024.

Busse said he was not recruited into the campaign, aside from some encouragement by family and friends, and offered a direct criticism of the Montana Democrats efforts in recent elections.

"Im also fully aware that Democrats have not done a good enough job of messaging what our values are, and have not done a good enough job messaging the dangers of Greg Gianforte," Busse said, calling messaging one of the deficiencies leading to Democratic Partys recent losing skids at the ballot box.

Born and raised in Kansas, Busse spent 25 years in the firearms industry as an executive at Kimber, a Kalispell company, between 1995 and 2020. His memoir, "Gunfight, took shots at the industry for ceding a focus on responsibility and safety to aggressive marketing campaigns catering toward extreme views.

"Our values are good values," he said of the Democratic Party. "I think its time a Democratic gubernatorial candidate stands up and says that."

Candidate filing in Montana doesnt officially open until January, but Busse said he needed to start sooner than later if he wants to be able to match Gianfortes expected campaign war chest.

Gianforte this week has appeared at schools in Billings and Missoula to tout legislative wins in raising teacher pay. A spokesperson for Gianforte on Thursday declined to say whether the governor will seek a second term, but said "Governor Gianforte remains focused on building upon what he committed to do and has proudly accomplished so far."

Busse is the second candidate to announce a challenge to the first-term governor, although the first Democrat to do so. Tanner Smith, a freshman Republican state representative also from Lakeside, announced his bid to unseat to Gianforte in June.
By Shawn Touney | Sep 13, 2023

MURRAY, Ky.  The latest Murray State University Racer Report includes student, faculty, staff and alumni accomplishments, announcements, upcoming campus events and more for the week of September 11-15.

**

Dr. David Whaley, dean of the College of Education and Human Services at Murray State University was recently part of a KET broadcast centered around early literacy. The colleges undergraduate Reading and Writing Education program has been recognized by the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) for its rigorous preparation of future teachers in how to teach reading and earned an A grade in NCTQs new report.

The program at Murray State is among just 23 percent nationwide to earn an A from NCTQ for meeting standards set by literacy experts for coverage of the most effective methods of reading instruction, often referred to as the science of reading.

Individuals can view the KET broadcast at ket.org/program/ket-forums/ early-literacy-a-ket-forum .

**

Dr. Tamara Feinstein and Dr. Aaron Irvin

Two faculty members in the Murray State University history department were recently spotlighted. The History Channels new series Ancient Empires includes Dr. Aaron Irvin, who shared some of his scholarly research and expertise. The seven-hour miniseries explores the foundations of some of the greatest empires of all time and stories of iconic rulers such as Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar and Cleopatra.

Additional information on the miniseries is available at history.com/shows/ancient- empires .

Dr. Tamara Feinstein recently wrote an electronic briefing book for the National Security Archive, in honor of the 20th anniversary of the Peruvian Truth and Reconciliation Commission's final report. Readers can learn more about the new revelations in the 22 declassified documents ranging from the start of Peru's civil war to the commission's final moments.

The electronic briefing book, which can be read at https://bit.ly/3r2X8sG, has gained international traction, including El Pais, a Spanish newspaper.

University of Notre Dame Press has also just released The Fate of Peruvian Democracy: Political Violence, Human Rights, and the Legal Left, a new book by Feinstein.

The book investigates the bloody Shining Path conflicts effect on the legal Left in late-twentieth-century Peru, illustrating the catastrophic impact state and insurgent violence can have on the growth and resilience of democratic political actors during times of war.

Learn more about the book, which is available at undpress.nd.edu/9780268206222/ the-fate-of-peruvian-democracy .

**

Karami Underwood, Murray State University's Paducah Regional Campus Director, has been named as one of Vue Magazine's 2023 Top 40 Professionals Under 40.

Karami Underwood, Murray State University's Paducah Regional Campus Director, has been named as one of Vue Magazine's 2023 Top 40 Professionals Under 40. This award is given to young professionals who are shaping industries and redefining what innovation means. These honorees are considered trailblazers and visionaries for the region, to create a brighter future for communities.

Underwood has been actively involved in several community organizations and committees including Paducah Professional Women, Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce Board, Leadership Paducah Class #37, Paducah/McCracken County Senior Center Board and Murray State University's Assessment Committee. Her leadership at Murray States Paducah Regional Campus is invaluable, as she supports enrollment growth and extends continuing education opportunities to students throughout the Paducah and McCracken County area service region.

For more information about Murray States Paducah Regional Campus, visit murraystate.edu/paducah.

**

Jessica Robles will be the Patricia Summerville Lecture Series Artists at Murray State University on Sept. 18-21.

Jessica Robles will be the Patricia Summerville Lecture Series Artists at Murray State University on Sept. 18-21. She will produce a lithograph edition and present a public lecture on Thursday, Sept. 21 at Noon at Wrather Auditorium, which is a part of ENGAGE, the Department of Art & Design's recruitment event for area high schools.

The workshop will be Monday, Sept. 18  Thursday, Sept. 21 in the Fine Arts building 1005 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Robles will be editioning her work with the assistance of the printmaking classes.

Everyone is welcome to bring their classes to the workshop and lecture.

Born and raised in Visalia, California, Robles received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Kansas City Art Institute and her Master of Fine Arts from Northern Illinois University, both with an emphasis in printmaking. She is now an adjunct art instructor at the College of the Sequoias in Visalia, California primarily teaching drawing courses.

Her work is a compilation of thoughts, ideas, memories and meaningful objects that she holds dear and brings to life in her prints and drawings. The work often hints at a sense of wit, sensitivity, vulnerability and sometimes an overbearing sadness which in the end creates a beautifully haunting image.

Individuals can view her work at jessicaroblesstudio.com.

**

Boaz Burnett, a Murray State University student and electromechanical engineering and technology major from Murray, Kentucky has been chosen as a delegate to Camp 2030 by the Kentucky Commercialization Venture (KCV).

Camp 2030 brings together young leaders from around the world to come up with innovative solutions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which include zero hunger and no poverty.

The trip is all expenses paid and is part of a $5,000 grant Burnett has received from KCV to further his senior design project, which is a parking vision system designed to detect if parking spots are available in a given lot, done through the use of cameras and machine learning.

Learn more about Camp 2030 at unite2030.com/camp2030.

**

senior Andrew Windhorst, a biology/pre-med major and chemistry minor from Paducah, worked with Dr. Ed McFarland, who is an orthopedic surgeon at Johns Hopkins Hospital and an alumnus of Murray State University

This past summer, Murray State University senior Andrew Windhorst, a biology/pre-med major and chemistry minor from Paducah, worked with Dr. Ed McFarland, who is an orthopedic surgeon at Johns Hopkins Hospital and an alumnus of Murray State University.

As part of his experience, Windhorst spent time in the clinic and the operating room, observing McFarland and his team of residents and fellows, gaining exposure to the necessity of great patient care.
Muscatine will close the 100 block of West 3rd Street between Iowa Avenue and the entrance to the Clark House parking lot to all traffic indefinitely, following the closure of the Welch Apartments.

In late August, Welch Apartments was closed due to concerns about the buildings structural integrity. Since then, its residents have been moved into temporary housing while its owner, the Richman Group, consults with a structural engineer about the next steps regarding any sort of repairs.

Additionally, two MuscaBus routes will change to go around the road closure. The Yellow Route will travel down Iowa and turn left on 4th Street to Sycamore and then on to City Hall. The Blue Route will travel down 3rd Street, turn left on Chestnut to 4th Street, then to Sycamore and then to City Hall.

Prior to this decision, the city had already closed the sidewalk near the area. Kevin Jenison, city communications manager, said the decision was proactive.

We are still waiting to hear exactly what the plan is for the building from the owners. But we did think it would be prudent to go ahead and block off that portion of the street just to protect any vehicles that might be driving by, in case a brick or two may fall, Jenison said. We just dont want anybody to be hurt.

As for why it was only the 3rd Street side that was closed, Jenison explained, The area that (the owners) are watching is more on the 3rd Street side towards the back of the building. The preliminary discussions have indicated that the front of the building on the Iowa Avenue side is pretty stable.

He then added that he doesnt currently believe that the building could collapse any time soon, stating that there doesnt seem to be any immediate danger and emphasizing that the building was being watched on a daily basis by inspectors from the citys community development department.

I think were still kind of far off from that possibility (of collapse), Jenison said. Were waiting for the structural engineers report, and (the building owners) still have a game plan to shore up the structure so that they can at least get in and do some additional investigation while at the same time remove the belongings of the residents.

Once the Richman Group has a better idea of the status of the Welch building and what the plans are for the building, the city plans to then modify the current street and sidewalk closures within the area, potentially opening up one or both lanes depending on safety and on how much space is needed for repairs.

Its important for people to understand that we (the city) and the owners have been very proactive in securing this building and taking the right steps with it, Jenison added. Wed love nothing better than to see a plan come forward where they can renovate the building and keep it, so were just sitting here with our fingers crossed and hoping for the best.

Jenison then encouraged local building owners, both in and outside of the downtown area, to continue doing regular inspections and to always report any concerns to the Community Development department.

The Muscatine Journal reached out to the Richman Group for further comments about its plans and the status of the structural engineers report but did not receive any reply at the time of printing.
The prosecution rested Wednesday on the second day of the vehicular homicide bench trial of Joshua Scott Peters, 37, of Davenport.

Wednesdays testimony consisted mostly of forensic evidence. Peters has been charged with homicide by vehicle  operating under the influence, a Class B felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison. Peters was also charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, a Class D felony punishable by up to five years in prison; first-degree theft, a Class C felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison; and driving while barred. The charges are all in connection with an incident in which William Talbot, 71, of Davenport was killed.

The state alleges that on April 21, 2022, Peters stole a Chevy Equinox with Talbot inside from Fairport State Recreation Area at 3284 Highway 22 in Muscatine and drove the vehicle into the Mississippi River. A medical examiners report Wednesday showed Talbot had drowned.

The defense will begin its case Thursday morning, possibly including Peters taking the stand. The judge will file a ruling at a later date.

Testimony kicked off Wednesday with Nick Frommelt, a former Muscatine County Sheriffs deputy, testifying he had given Peters a sobriety test the morning of April 22, 2022, which he had failed. Based on the failure of the test, the sheriffs office had applied for a search warrant to give Peters a drug test.

On cross examination, Jeffrey Powell, Peters attorney, asked Frommelt about the accuracy of the sobriety tests Peters was given. He also asked about how the test worked to determine sobriety.

The prosecution also called Joe Morrett, of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation laboratory, to discuss Peters blood sample. Morrett said the sample contained 718 nanograms per liter of methamphetamine. By way of comparison, he said that in a prescribed dosage, the amount would be about 20 to 50 nanograms.

Iowa State Patrol trooper Mike Messerich discussed the crash scene reconstruction. He explained the vehicle had been going about 30 mph when it hit the Mississippi River. During his testimony, the prosecution again showed a video taken by a security camera from a nearby house showing the Equinox speeding down the street and plunging into the water. He said the passenger seat was occupied at the time, but the seat belt was not engaged.

Photos: Fatal crash on West Kimberly Road 061419-qct-qca-crash-012 061419-qct-qca-crash-011 061419-qct-qca-crash-001 061419-qct-qca-crash-002 061419-qct-qca-crash-003 061419-qct-qca-crash-004 061419-qct-qca-crash-005 061419-qct-qca-crash-006 061419-qct-qca-crash-007 061419-qct-qca-crash-008 061419-qct-qca-crash-009 061419-qct-qca-crash-010 Davenport crash
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
Officer Kevin Cram was killed just before 8 p.m. Wednesday as he tried to serve an arrest warrant to 43-year-old Kyle Ricke, said Mitch Mortvedt, assistant director of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation. Cram, a 33-year-old husband and father who had been an officer in Algona since 2015, was pronounced dead at Kossuth Regional Health Center in Algona.

The shooting took place in the 1100 block of South Minnesota Street in Algona. The officers death left the normally quiet Kossuth County community of 5,300 stunned.

Officer Cram was a kind and committed officer on our police force. He was a homegrown hero who served this community proudly and with integrity. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, fellow officers, dispatchers and coworkers during this difficult time, said Algona Mayor Rick Murphy.

Cram worked as an officer with the Nora Springs Police Department from 2013 until 2015 when he made the move to the Algona Police Department.

He worked with Nora Springs Police Chief Jessie Dugan during that time.

With a two-person police department, Officer Cram and I worked very close together, Dugan said in a statement. He was a great friend and coworker. We spent time off-duty hunting and fishing together. Officer Cram will be sadly missed by all.

The shooting prompted a Blue Alert, letting the public know a suspect who posed a threat to law enforcement was on the loose. Algona residents were warned to lock their doors and shelter in place. Ricke was captured without incident just before midnight in Brown County, Minnesota, about 100 miles north of Algona. He was charged with first-degree murder, Mortvedt said, and will be held in Minnesota pending extradition.

Algona Police Officer Kevin Cram died serving his community, Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Stephan Bayens said during a press conference Thursday morning at the Kossuth County Election Center. Algona Police Officer Kevin Cram answered the call to serve. Algona Police Officer Kevin Cram died because he chose to be a beacon of light. Algona Police Officer Kevin Cram died because he was willing to stand in the gap between good and evil. Algona Police Officer Kevin Cram died a hero.

Tragic, heartbreaking, gut-wrenching pain and agony, but we will bow our backs, we will be strong, and we will continue to do our jobs, Bayens said.

Ricke had appeared in Kossuth County court earlier Wednesday on a charge of third-degree harassment.

Cram was on patrol in Algona when he learned an arrest warrant had been issued for Ricke on the harassment charge, Mortvedt said. The officer went to a home where he thought Ricke might be and upon finding him told him he would be arrested. Cram was serving the warrant when Ricke took a handgun and shot the officer.

After shooting, he allegedly yelled Too late motherf and I did it cause I am tired of this s.

According to court documents, Ricke was accused of contacting a victim multiple times over the course of two hours and again several days later after police told him to stop. On Aug. 23, the victim showed an officer 63 unread messages and several missed phone calls Ricke had sent to the victim. This happened after the victim had told Ricke she no longer wanted contact with him, court documents state.

Ricke was arrested Aug. 28 and a no contact order was granted Aug. 29. The trial in that case is scheduled for Nov. 3.

During the press conference Bayens said Cram died with honor.

The law enforcement community in Kossuth County is hurting, but they are not broken. They are shaken, but they are not broken, he said. Their hearts are heavy, but they will continue to honor Kevins legacy by being that beacon of light in their communities.

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird released a statement expressing sadness for the loss of a law enforcement officer and honoring his and others sacrifices.

We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of law enforcement hero Kevin Cram last night in Algona. Officer Cram wore the badge with honor to serve and protect. As we mourn his heartbreaking loss, we remember Officer Crams selfless service and keep his family in our prayers. We will never take for granted the sacrifices made to keep us safe, and we will always stand strong alongside our law enforcement heroes.

The states congressional delegation also posted condolences on social media. Please join me in saying an extra prayer for our men and women in blue today, Sen. Joni Ernst said.

Gov. Kim Reynolds ordered flags be flown at half-staff Friday in Crams honor.

Officer Kevin Cram died a hero, protecting his community and upholding the rule of law. Kevin and I are praying for his family, the Algona Police Department, and all the law enforcement officers in Kossuth County, Reynolds said in a statement. As flags are lowered across the state, Iowans honor Officer Crams legacy and stand united with his brothers and sisters in uniform. We will never forget his service and sacrifice.

Close Iowa Department of Criminal Investigations vehicles are at the scene of an officer-involved shooting north of the Kossuth County Fairgrounds on South Minnesota Street on Thursday in Algona. Cram Iowa Department of Criminal Investigations vehicles are at the scene of an officer-involved shooting north of the Kossuth County Fairgrounds on South Minnesota Street on Thursday in Algona. Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Assistant Director Mitch Mortvedt speaks during a press conference at the Kossuth County Election Center on Thursday in Algona. Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Stephan Bayens speaks during a press conference at the Kossuth County Election Center on Thursday in Algona. Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Stephan Bayens speaks during a press conference at the Kossuth County Election Center on Thursday in Algona. Kossuth County EMS vehicles are at the scene of an officer-involved shooting north of the Kossuth County Fairgrounds on South Minnesota Street on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, in Algona, Iowa. A northern Iowa police officer was shot Wednesday night, prompting a manhunt that ended with an arrest in Minnesota. (Lily Smith/The Des Moines Register via AP) Kossuth County EMS vehicles are at the scene of an officer-involved shooting north of the Kossuth County Fairgrounds on South Minnesota Street on Thursday in Algona. PHOTOS: Officer shot in Algona Wednesday night A press conference was held Thursday morning to address the shooting and killing of Algona officer Kevin Cram, 33. Cram was killed Wednesday night while in the line of duty. Suspect, 43-year-old Kyle Ricke, is in custody and is being held on charges of first-degree murder. Iowa Department of Criminal Investigations vehicles are at the scene of an officer-involved shooting north of the Kossuth County Fairgrounds on South Minnesota Street on Thursday in Algona. Cram Iowa Department of Criminal Investigations vehicles are at the scene of an officer-involved shooting north of the Kossuth County Fairgrounds on South Minnesota Street on Thursday in Algona. Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Assistant Director Mitch Mortvedt speaks during a press conference at the Kossuth County Election Center on Thursday in Algona. Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Stephan Bayens speaks during a press conference at the Kossuth County Election Center on Thursday in Algona. Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Stephan Bayens speaks during a press conference at the Kossuth County Election Center on Thursday in Algona. Kossuth County EMS vehicles are at the scene of an officer-involved shooting north of the Kossuth County Fairgrounds on South Minnesota Street on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, in Algona, Iowa. A northern Iowa police officer was shot Wednesday night, prompting a manhunt that ended with an arrest in Minnesota. (Lily Smith/The Des Moines Register via AP) Kossuth County EMS vehicles are at the scene of an officer-involved shooting north of the Kossuth County Fairgrounds on South Minnesota Street on Thursday in Algona.
The Boroughs and Administration department of the Nairobi County Government is gearing up to initiate a series of grassroots interactions across all 17 sub-counties in the city.

These meetings with local residents are primarily intended to address inquiries regarding the proposed creation of the 5 BoroughsWestern, Eastern, Northern, Southern, and Centralas a governance system, facilitated through public participation.

The Boroughs once established, will address poor service delivery, poverty, development inequalities by bringing County services from City hall to the grassroots, said Patrick Mbogo, the County Executive, Boroughs and Administration.

Mbogo explained that this process would be overseen by Borough Managers and a board consisting of the area MCA, residential associations, and individuals.

This board would have the authority to make decisions concerning their respective Boroughs, thus reducing the time typically required to address issues in alignment with Governor Johnson Sakajas vision of transforming Nairobi into a city of Order and Hope.

On Wednesday, the public participation activities occurred in various constituencies, including Kibra, Dagoreti South, Dagoreti North, Langata, Kamukunji, Ruaraka, Makadara, and Mathare.
The national government will spend more than Sh2.3 billion on the upgrading of health facilities to level three status, the head of infrastructure development in the ministry of health, Michael Thuita, has said.

Mr. Thuita, who was speaking at Urenga Health Centre in East Ugenya Ward, Siaya County, during the handover of the site for the upgrading of the facility to a level three status, said that the countrywide project will see each of the counties benefit to the tune of Sh50 million each.

The officer said that once complete, the facility will have, among other facilities, an in-patient wing, an X-ray wing, and laboratory wings to enhance service delivery to the local residents.

This is a national government project, and the upgrade will take 52 weeks, he said, adding that once they are done, the facility will be handed over to the county government for management.

Thuita called on the county government of Siaya to prepare to upgrade the staff at the facility to enable the residents to fully benefit from the upgrade.

Siaya County Director of Public Health, Kennedy Orwenjo, hailed the national government for funding the upgrade, adding that it will go a long way in improving healthcare services in Ugenya Sub County.

The paediatric and post-natal wards, together with the theatres, ultrasound, and laboratory services, will go a long way in improving the facilitys ability to deliver quality health care to the residents, said the director.

He added that the upgraded facility will also provide an opportunity for the Ugenya Kenya Medical Training Centre trainees to gain practical skills.

The head of the facility, Rabin Awandu, said they expect the number of patients seeking services at the facility to improve from the current 1,700 once the upgrade is complete. We also expect the number of deliveries, which stands at 20 per month currently, to increase, he said.

Ugenya Member of Parliament David Ochieng, who also attended the handover ceremony, called for a cordial relationship between the national government and the devolved units.

The Ministry of Health has many things that counties can benefit from, and this can only be achieved when relationships are better and people talk to each other, said the legislator.

He urged the ministry of health to consider hastening the process of upgrading the facility further to level four once the current upgrade is complete.

Via Kenya News Agency
The Kenya Defence Forces(KDF) on Tuesday reportedly raided an Al-Shabaab hideout in the Harbole-Fafi area in Garissa County and killed five militia.

Acting on intelligence from locals, the multi-agency Special Operation Group (SOG) led by KDF destroyed a suspected Al-Shabaab Improvised Explosive Devices [IEDs] base in Northeastern Kenya, security forces reported.

The base served as a facility for assembling Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), with KDF recovering IED-making materials, medicine, and other assorted items.

Upon ambushing the base, the special forces swiftly engaged the militants who were hiding in the dense bushes, resulting in a fierce gun battle.

The Special OP Group received air support from the Kenya DAirforce, successfully driving back the militia. In the confrontation, five militants were eliminated, while others managed to escape with injuries.

A pursuit operation was launched to locate the fleeing militants.

The officers seized IED materials, ammunition, and medical supplies. A number of militants also escaped with bullet injuries.

These supplies could have been used to treat wounded Al Shabaab fighters, so their removal will make it more difficult for the group to sustain its operations, a police statement read in part.

The team comprising members from the National Police Service, National Intelligence Service, and Kenya Defence Forces, expressed their gratitude to the local villagers for providing crucial information that contributed to the operations success.

It was emphasized that collaboration between the security organizations and the local community is vital in combating insurgency along Kenyas borders.

The success of the operation is a testament to the corporation between locals and officers, the statement added.
Kenya has signed the First Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) with Colombia, aiming to enhance bilateral relations.

This signing ceremony in Bogota has paved the way for an expanded collaboration across numerous sectors such as Agriculture, Gender, Education, Science and Technology, Culture, Transport, Health, Environmental Conservation, Trade, and Investment, among others.

During the signing ceremony, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua stated that they had also engaged in discussions on methods to strengthen the relationship further, including the possibility of establishing direct flights between the two countries to facilitate increased interaction and enhance the flow of goods and services.

Gachagua additionally said both countries have initiated talks regarding the elimination of visa requirements for diplomatic and service passport holders.

We are grateful to our hard-working teams from Kenya and Colombia for putting in the hard work to realise this Cooperation, he said.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua conveyed his profound gratitude and appreciation to Vice President Francia Elena Marquez Mina for her leadership, dedication, and the time she invested in this process.

I reaffirm the Governments commitment to work closely with our Colombia counterparts to ensure full implementation of the outcome.

The DP said that Culture exchange is one of the thematic areas of focus of the Kenya-Colombia Joint Commission for Cooperation that we have signed.

It is part of the Performing Arts under the Creatives Economy of our Plan. While in Bogota, I enjoyed electrifying performances and depictions from Colombian artists, he added.
Former Kenyan presidential candidate Quincy Zuma Wambitta Timberlake has admitted guilty to the manslaughter of his three-year-old son, Sinclair Timberlake, in the year 2014.

The controversial husband of former news presenter, Esther Arunga, was scheduled to face murder charges in the Brisbane Supreme Court in Australia this week. However, he surprised the court on Tuesday, September 12 by changing his plea to guilty, but to the lesser charge of manslaughter.

The prosecution accepted his guilty plea, leading to the withdrawal of the murder charge, and as a result, the judge-only trial was canceled.

The court scheduled his sentencing for September 29.

Under Australian law, manslaughter carries a maximum penalty of 25 years imprisonment when tried in the Supreme Court.

At first, both Quincy and Arunga had informed the Australian police that their son had suffered a fatal fall down the stairs at their Kallangur home north of Brisbane, Australia, and passed away shortly after.

However, twenty-six days later, Arunga changed her statement, alleging that Quincy had thrown their son against the wall and stomped on his stomach. This revelation aligned with the findings of the autopsy report.

Arunga said Quincys attack on their son was driven by his belief that their son was possessed by evil spirits that were in his stomach.

Arunga was charged as an accessory to murder and received a 10-month jail sentence, but she was granted immediate parole. The court took into account her state of mind when determining her sentence.

Judge Martin Burns noted that Esther Arungas beliefs had played a significant role in her difficulties as she attempted to raise a family in a foreign country, and tragically, this resulted in the loss of her son.

During pre-trial discussions, the court heard that Quincy Timberlake had been diagnosed with both psychosis and schizophrenia.

Before migrating to Australia, Timberlake grabbed headlines in 2010 when he announced his candidacy for the presidency in Kenya.
President William Ruto left the country on Wednesday evening for a working tour of the United States.

In a statement issued by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, Rutos visit underscores Kenyas commitment to tech innovation and its pivotal role as a trade partner with the United States.

President Ruto will visit Silicon Valley in San Francisco, where he will meet with tech leaders of Microsoft, Intel, Google and Apple, among others.

The visit aims to enhance investment opportunities and trade relations with the US, with a particular focus on nurturing Kenyas startup sector dubbed Silicon Savannah. Husseins statement reads in part.

The head of state will underscore Kenyas burgeoning young talent, its initiatives in green energy, and its significance as an alternative supply chain option for American companies.

Thereafter, President Ruto will attend the 78th United Nations General Assembly session in NewYork.

The global gathering will assess progress towards the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable

Development Goals (SDGs), address critical global challenges such as the climate crisis and debt concerns in the Global South, said Mohamed.

President Ruto will also participate in the UN Secretary-Generals Climate Ambition summit, building upon the achievements of the recently concluded Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi.

On the sidelines of the General Assembly, President Ruto will chair a session of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change and participate in discussions on the High-Level Panel for Sustainable Ocean Economy.

The President will also hold bilateral meetings with world leaders.
Tracy Mayne is not a fan of Donald Snyders signs on Browns Valley Road.

Mayne, a Browns Valley resident, said he is offended by the messages Snyder has posted on a sign board in the front yard of his home across from the Browns Valley fire station.

The signs have promoted a variety of antisemitic messages, anti-LGBTQ and other slurs and conspiracy theories about politics, former President Barack Obama, COVID-19 and more.

So Mayne decided to make his own sign  on wheels.

On Sunday, he rented a 10-foot U-Haul truck and taped a large poster to the side of it. Hate is not a Napa value," it read.

He then parked the truck in front of Snyders house at 3020 Browns Valley Road.

Mayne said that he rented the truck and made the sign as "one small piece in a larger movement for inclusion and against hate speech in Napa.

Mayne is not the first to object. Many residents and locals have complained over the years about Snyders incendiary messages. This April locals called the police about an anti-Jewish message posted at Snyders house.

While many consider such beliefs reprehensible, Napa Police Chief Jennifer Gonzales said previously that such signage was constitutionally protected speech.

Like other times when the message was written in a manner that provoked energy from others, we cannot and will not take unlawful law enforcement action against First Amendment-protected speech, said Gonzales.

Mayne actually agrees.

He has a First Amendment right to post a sign, Mayne said of Snyder. Its not about stopping him; its about raising our voice, so a chorus of positive messaging drowns out the sour voice.

This week it didnt take long for people to react to Maynes project.

Social media messages spread the word about the truck and the new sign. Many wrote supportive posts, but at least one person disagreed.

On Sunday, shortly after Mayne parked the U-Haul and sign, a man crossed busy Browns Valley Road, ripped the sign off the van and ran back across the street. The man (who was not Synder) then extended both middle fingers at Mayne, who has a short video of the incident.

That didnt stop Mayne. He then painted the same message, using washable paint, directly onto the side of the U-Haul.

Mayne said he plans to rent the truck through the end of October. Supporters are helping him finance the truck rental at $21 a day, along with some art supplies for $20. He moves the U-Haul nightly to avoid parking violations.

Its a small price with many wallets open for support, he said.

In an interview on his doorstep on Wednesday morning, Snyder himself seemed mostly unbothered by the U-Haul and painted message.

I dont mind," he said. "He has a right to park there. Its a legal parking spot."

Were not hate, Snyder said. This is America. You have the right to free speech, plain and simple.

This Napan, in his 80s, said he changes the message on his bulletin board about twice a week, focusing on what he described as corruption." He declined to have his photo taken for this story.

Mayne said he is not deterred by Snyder's actions.

Im not going to focus on the negative, he said. We cant let fear or complacency stop us.

This has to be about positive messaging that our community does not support hate. And this is one small piece of what I think is a much greater thing.

Rabbi Niles Goldstein of Napas Congregation Beth Shalom said he appreciated Maynes efforts.

I think direct action is warranted in this case, said Goldstein. Because of the First Amendment, we cant sanction this guy from a legal standpoint. But this is a way of sanctioning him by the community. His message of hate being countered by a message that Napa doesnt stand for hate is very appropriate. (Snyder) is really a menace and Im glad Mayne has taken a stand, he said.

Rev. Jay Lang of the Center for Spiritual Living in Napa said he hasnt yet seen Maynes truck and message, but I will say its important to make a stand against hate and, when possible, to do it in a loving and positive way.

Napan Joanne Sutro, who is helping spearhead a new secular grassroots community group named Pro Inclusion Napa, said she also supports Mayne.

I agree with his sentiment to spread a message that hate speech is not something thats valued by the majority of people in Napa Valley. I applaud him for doing that, said Sutro.

PHOTOS: Napa's 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony
Xi, Maduro announce elevation of China-Venezuela ties

Xinhua) 08:05, September 14, 2023

BEIJING, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with his Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday.

The two presidents announced the elevation of the China-Venezuela relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro Moros at the square outside the east entrance of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. Xi held talks with Maduro, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Ding Lin)

ALL-WEATHER STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

Xi said China and Venezuela are good friends who trust each other and good partners for common development, hailing the ironclad friendship forged amid the ever-changing international landscape.

"China has always viewed its relations with Venezuela from a strategic and long-term perspective, and firmly supports Venezuela's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, national dignity and social stability, as well as Venezuela's just cause of opposing external interference," Xi told Maduro.

"The establishment of an all-weather strategic partnership between China and Venezuela meets the common expectations of the two peoples and conforms to the general trend of historical development," Xi said, calling on the two sides to push for more fruitful China-Venezuela strategic cooperation, bring more benefits to the two peoples and inject more positive energy into world peace and development.

Maduro said Venezuela and China enjoy profound friendship and fruitful cooperation, making bilateral relations a model for relations among countries of the Global South. He said the Venezuelan people thank the Chinese government and people for their valuable support and assistance when Venezuela was suffering from illegal unilateral sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Maduro said Venezuela's national development and Venezuela-China relations are at a significant stage. "The establishment of an all-weather strategic partnership is of historic significance and will surely usher in a new era of bilateral relations."

Sun Yanfeng, Deputy Director of the Institute of Latin American Studies, China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, noted that Venezuela is the first Latin American country that China established an all-weather strategic partnership with.

"The upgraded relationship means increased political trust, strategic need of each other, and high-level cooperation between the two sides. It also means they will surely expand cooperation in multilateral frameworks and, therefore, contribute to building a fair and just international order," Sun said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

CHINA CHARISMA

Xi spoke about China's reform and opening up, especially the development of special economic zones, and noted that reform and opening up is an important instrument for China to catch up with the times in great strides and a crucial move in making China what it is today.

"China cherishes the valuable experience gained in this process and will continue to push forward reform and opening up. No force can stop China's development and progress," Xi said.

Xi said China stands ready to work with Venezuela to firmly support each other in exploring a development path suited to their national conditions and strengthen Party and national governance exchanges. He said China supports Venezuela in setting up special economic zones and will share relevant experience to help its national development.

Maduro said Venezuela is willing to learn from China's experience in building special economic zones and deepen practical cooperation in agriculture, investment, education, and tourism.

Maduro said Venezuela supports the joint construction of the Belt and Road. The Venezuelan side also supports the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by Xi.

The Venezuelan president said China has become a great country committed to peace, development, and well-being of humanity and a vital engine for promoting a new multi-polar world. He added that everything he has seen and heard during his visit demonstrates China's progress and strength.

Maduro started his week-long China visit in Shenzhen, a reform pioneer where one of China's first special economic zones was established in 1980. There, the Venezuelan president experienced firsthand the achievements of China's reform and opening-up.

If Venezuela can establish Venezuelan-style special zones to attract capital, technology, and management expertise, it will greatly promote Venezuela's development, as Venezuela's economy has been under pressure due to domestic political factors, U.S. sanctions, and COVID-19, said Song Junying. Song is the director of the Department for Latin American and Caribbean Studies at the China Institute of International Studies.

"Whether it is the Belt and Road Initiative or the other three initiatives, China regards other countries as equal partners, fundamentally different from the initiatives put forward by other non-regional powers in history. Therefore, Latin American countries, including Venezuela, have embraced the Chinese initiatives," Song said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

EXPANDING COOPERATION

Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Venezuela. China is ready to strengthen people-to-people exchanges with Venezuela, support the development of Chinese language teaching Confucius institutes in Venezuela, and strengthen media exchanges, Xi said.

He called on the two sides to implement the outcomes of the 17th meeting of the Mixed Venezuela-China High-Level Committee and strengthen practical cooperation in various fields in the next stage.

Xi said China is willing to import more high-quality Venezuelan products and congratulated Venezuela on becoming the first country in the Americas to join the China-initiated cooperation on the International Lunar Research Station.

The two sides should work closely in multilateral mechanisms, including the United Nations, The Group of 77 (G77) and China, strengthen solidarity and cooperation with other developing countries, and jointly safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the common interests of developing countries, the Chinese president said.

Noting China attaches great importance to the development of China-Latin America relations and next year will mark the 10th anniversary of the China-CELAC Forum, Xi said China is ready to work with Venezuela and other countries in the region to promote China-Latin America cooperation and build a community with a shared future.

For his part, Maduro said Venezuela stands ready to strengthen communication and cooperation with China within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations and the BRICS mechanism, safeguard multilateralism and the legitimate interests of developing countries, promote building a community with a shared future for humanity, and play a positive role in promoting the development of CELAC relations with China.

After the talks, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of a number of bilateral cooperation documents in the fields of jointly building the Belt and Road, economy and trade, education, tourism, science and technology, health, aerospace, and civil aviation.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Central Bank chief: Armenia residents deposits increased by about 25%

Armenia labor, social affairs minister attends Armenian-Iranian forum in Tehran

European Union increases humanitarian funding to Armenia by about 1.7M

Dollar, euro go up in Armenia

Armenia PM, Poland envoy address humanitarian situation of forcibly displaced people from Karabakh

Ardshinbank has been recognized as the "Best Corporate" and "Best ESG Bank" in Armenia by Euromoney magazine

Turkey border bridge renovation, furnishing underway, Armenia official says

Armenia official: Enclaves issue will be clarified when peace treaty with Azerbaijan is signed

Armenia official: Positive thing about North-South project is that we entered construction phase in some sections

Ethnic cleansing in Karabakh received pin-drop silence by American media, US presidential nominee says

Armenia economy minister: Trade relations with Russia are very important to us

Armenia official: We have certain idea about construction of railway in Meghri sector, we are waiting

74 films to be screened in Armenia during 19th Rolan International Film Festival for Children and Youth

Yeraskh steel plant project being implemented, it is being moved, it will be nearby, Armenia economy minister says

Azerbaijan pledges guarantees to Karabakh Armenians after its blockade, genocide

Karabakh ombudsman: Who needs forums, lengthy speeches if international community fails to prevent genocides?

Maestro Sergey Smbatyan: Process that could have had only one outcome is resolved

Legislature vice-speaker complains about reduction of programs in Armenia IT sector

UNICEF Armenia: Next batch of humanitarian aid sent to Syunik Province

Central Bank of Armenia reduces refinancing rate by 0.25 points, sets it at 9.5%

Martin Schuepp: Red Cross is helping people left in Karabakh

Finance minister: Armenia economic growth potential currently estimated at 5.5%

Armenia official: The money we were allocating to Karabakh should be enough to fund all programs

Parliament deputy speaker: Armenia has no contender in high tech

Newspaper: Karabakh army handed over ammunition not to Azerbaijan, but to Russian side

Canada ambassador about sanctions on Azerbaijan: There is also dispute within Armenia regarding them

Audi Q6 e-tron launch delayed until at least Spring 2024

Armenia Investigative Committee official: 8 of 16 persons captured by Azerbaijan are Karabakh leadership members

4.8 magnitude earthquake strikes Turkey

14 individuals were tortured, and 64 died on the move from Nagorno Karabakh. Foreign Ministry spokesperson

Council of Europe to prepare package of measures in response to refugee influx in Armenia

Mher Grigoryan and EU Ambassador exchanged ideas on regional developments

Minister of Defence had a meeting with the Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission of PRC

Yeremyan Projects has launched the regional first livestock complex in Tashir community

Rights of Karabakhs imprisoned former leadership are protected, Azerbaijan ombudsperson claims

Finance ministry: Armenia economic growth target will be maintained at 7% level in 2024

Elnur Mammadov: Most points in peace treaty have been agreed upon by Azerbaijan, Armenia

Statement: Alma-Ata Declaration has no mention of former union republics of ex-USSR

Dollar drops, euro rises in Armenia

Armenia defense sector capital spending planned in amount of around $1.4 billion in 2024

Lawyer: Maestro Sergey Smbatyan is acquitted

Premier: Armenia defense spending planned to be increased by 125% in 2024 compared to 2018

Armenia, Ukraine officials underscore Pashinyan-Zelenskyy first meeting

ReA15: 300 animation films, 30 guests from 40 countries, around 500 audience; Armenia international festival summed up

Russias Makhachkala airport resumes operations

Armenia's Pashinyan: There is serious progress in North-South motorway construction

Around 12kg narcotics attempted to be smuggled into Armenia from Iran

Armenia finance minister: Considerable part of 2.6 billion to be provided by EU is loan

Armenia official: We will not increase pensions, minimum wages in 2024

Armenia finance minister: National debt of more than $10 billion is safe

Pashinyan: Armenia government expects 7% economic growth in 2023

COAF secures 10M grant to transform education in Armenia's Syunik Province

RFE/RL: US supports EU monitoring mission in Armenia, embassy says

Hurricane Otis kills at least 48 people in Mexico

$135M to be allocated for needs of those forcibly displaced from Karabakh, Armenia PM says

Armenia nationals can now open bank accounts in Russia in simplified manner

Armenia MFA former spox shares video of Russian peacekeepers withdrawal from Karabakh

202-million-year-old dragonfly fossil discovered in UK

Armenia premier: I hope arrangements for opening border with Turkey will be implemented in near future

Pashinyan: Current world orders collapse is serious threat to Armenia

Armenia labor, social affairs minister is in Iran, memorandum to be signed on highly qualified workforce exchange

Armenia PM: 3 main principles of signing peace treaty with Azerbaijan have been agreed upon

Armenia defense minister attends Beijing Xiangshan Forum opening ceremony in China (PHOTOS)

Biden, Netanyahu discuss ongoing Israeli airstrikes in Gaza

Arab, Muslim users of social media unhappy with ongoing supply of oil from Azerbaijan to Israel

Attempts are being made to destabilize situation in Russias Dagestan from outside, leader Melikov says

20 people injured, 2 in critical condition after mass riots at Russias Makhachkala airport

Kamala Harris: US has no plans of sending combat troops to Israel, Gaza

Russia researchers develop water evaluation system using smartphones

Russias Makhachkala airport closed until November 6

France releases city electric cars that can be driven without driver's license

Thugs attack bus carrying women, children in Russias Makhachkala

Anti-Israel protest in Russias Dagestan, crowd storms into Makhachkala airport

Slovenia donates 120,000, through Red Cross, to forcibly displaced people from Karabakh

Overall 3342 children died in Gaza since start of war

Israel bombs areas near Al-Quds Hospital in Gaza

Palestinian Red Crescent: Israel demands evacuation of Gaza hospital

UN peacekeeper wounded in Lebanese shelling

Israel Armenians newspaper: Situation in Israel still difficult

Iran President: Zionists were defeated, forced to retreat
The European Union Mission in Armenia (EUMA) wrote on Xformer Twitter that in recent weeks they have been carrying out regular patrols in the Yeraskh village area to monitor and control the disassembling of the steel plant under construction there.

By their presence, they contribute to the safe and secure transportation of materials and equipment to a new location, EU the observers added.

However, later this post was removed from the EUMA official X account, and another post was made with the following content: EUMA has been regularly patrolling in the Yeraskh area, including the steel plant, to observe any security & military developments. By our presence, we have contributed to safer and more secure environment.

Azerbaijan fires, on a regular basis, at the Yeraskh steel plant under construction.
The nine-person delegation of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe (CoE) will carry out an observation mission in Yerevan, from September 15 to 18, for Sundays elections of the Yerevan Council of Elders, the CoE has informed.

Before the election day, the delegation will meet with representatives of the Central Electoral Commission, the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure, and the Ministry of Justice of Armenia.

Meetings with the Armenian delegation to the aforesaid congress, members of the diplomatic corps, as well as representatives of local and international NGOs and mass media are also planned. The delegation will exchange views with representatives and candidates of political parties running in the elections.

On election day, seven teams of the aforementioned congress will be randomly deployed in all 12 districts of Yerevan to monitor the election procedures at polling stations.

The head of the delegation will post the statement with preliminary conclusions on the website of the CoE Congress of Local and Regional Authorities on September 18.
At the initiative of Artsakh-Belgian parliament of Flanders friendship group of the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) National Assembly (NA), a special videoconference was held Wednesday with Belgian colleagues, the NA informs.

Matters related to the current situation in Artsakh were discussed at the event.

The Artsakh MPs presented the difficulties suffered by the people of Artsakh due to the ongoing blockade of Artsakh by Azerbaijan, reflected on issues, and noted that they expect the friends of Artsakh to raise this matter in international courts and in the media.

In turn, Flemish Parliament member as well as other participants of the videoconference expressed their support to the people of Artsakh, stressed that the Flemish Parliament condemned the policy of Azerbaijan, after the war in 2020 the Belgian government allocated funds for humanitarian aid, and that they are still trying to develop steps to assist Artsakh.
Azerbaijan has once again discarded the agreed arrangements and, in response to the agreement of the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) authorities regarding the transportation of humanitarian cargo of the Russian Red Cross from Russia via the Akna (Aghdam)-Stepanakert road, did not allow the transportation of humanitarian cargo from the territory of Armenia through the Berdzor (Lachin) corridor. The Artsakh Security Development Front public movement noted this in a statement.

The statement continues as follows: "This behavior of the Azerbaijani authorities is nothing but a complete disregard for all the efforts of the international players to resolve the problem.

"It is at least puzzling that Russia, as a party to the agreements and a guarantor of the implementation of the provisions of the 2020 trilateral statement, tolerates another provocation by Azerbaijan.

"It is not the first time that the Artsakh Security Development Front public movement announces the doubtful ability of the Azerbaijani side to maintain its contractual obligations and urges the authorities of Artsakh to insist on the need for international guarantees and punishment to implement the possible decisions that can be reached with the Azerbaijani side.

"At this difficult time, we call on our compatriots to unite and do everything possible for the sake of saving Artsakh.

"In the conditions of total blockade, deep humanitarian crisis, and existential threats from Azerbaijan, the most important guarantee of keeping Artsakh Armenian was and remains the unbreakable will of the people of Artsakh to live in their homeland and defend it at all costs."
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia on Thursday received the chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the National Assembly of France, Jean-Louis Bourlanges, the PM's office informs Armenian News-NEWS.am.

The Prime Minister emphasized his visit to Armenia and thanked him for his contribution to strengthening the friendship between Armenia and France, especially for contributing to the international visibility of the humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh caused by the illegal blocking of the Lachin Corridor by Azerbaijan. Nikol Pashinyan noted that France's response to the current situation is one of the best expressions of friendship between our peoples. The Prime Minister emphasized that the humanitarian aid sent by France has not yet reached the people of Nagorno-Karabakh and highly appreciated the steps taken by the French side.

Jean-Louis Bourlanges once again emphasized France's support to Armenia and the people of Nagorno-Karabakh for overcoming difficulties and existing problems.

The interlocutors discussed the tension caused by the movement of Azerbaijani troops along the state border with Armenia and the contact line with Nagorno-Karabakh, steps to overcome the deepening humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh, as well as Armenian-French cooperation.

The sides expressed satisfaction with the close interaction formed between the parliaments of Armenia and France.
National Hispanic Heritage Month starts Friday, Sept. 15, and theres no shortage of great ways to celebrate across campus. Plus, last week, the Michael C. Carlos Museum opened its new exhibit celebrating the photography of Latinx artists. Stop by to view You Belong Here: Place, People and Purpose in Latinx Photography and mark your calendar for other upcoming events, which you wont want to miss.

Centro Latinx Open House and Latinx Heritage Month Kickoff

Kick off Hispanic Heritage Month with the Centro Latinx open house. Learn more about the space, connect with the Emory Latinx community and enjoy empanadas in Cox Hall, Room 312.

Vamos to the Carlos!

Join the Carlos Museum and Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) to celebrate the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month with Raul the Third, the award-winning author and illustrator of the bilingual Vamos! series. Attendees will be able to create their own 3-D character, find more bilingual books throughout the galleries, enjoy Helados Mexican ice cream, learn from docents about works of art in the You Belong Here: Place, People and Purpose in Latinx Photography exhibit, and make a mark on a community mural with GPB.

Snacks and supplies are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The event is free for all families and includes admission to the galleries.

Salsa and Merengue Dance Class

Looking to learn some new moves? Check out the Lets Dance! Salsa and Merengue Class at Williams Auditorium on the Oxford College campus.

Mariachi Band Performance

Head to the Oxford Deans Dining Room at lunchtime to enjoy a four-piece Mariachi band.

The Morgan Forum: re:Wording: The Past, Present and Future of the Bible in Translation

Join the Candler School of Theologys Pitts Theology Library for a day of events exploring the past development of the Bible, while asking what may come next for a sacred text in our digital age. Through gallery tours, student presentations, panel conversations and a keynote address, the Morgan Forum will offer opportunities to learn from leaders in biblical scholarship, teaching and publishing to help us understand what the future holds for the Bible in translation.

Spanish interpretation is available upon request, courtesy of La Mesa Academy for Theological Studies.

TheoEd Talks Orlando

Livestream TheoEd Talks and witness leaders in the church and academy share the talk of their lives in 20 minutes or less. The event, sponsored by The Candler Foundry, aims to spark conversations that change the way people think about God, religion and the power of faith to change lives.

The event features Lydia Esther Munoz, executive director of the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry of The United Methodist Church; Jacqui Lewis; Brian McLaren; Luke A. Powery; and Clay and Cliff Price. Tickets to the livestream are free.

Sport Your Flag: Hispanic Community Representation Photo

Join Oxford Colleges Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Organizacion de Latinx Americanos to celebrate with the sportage of national flags. Faculty, staff and students are all invited, and a photo will be taken at 6 p.m. to commemorate the national flags of the Hispanic community at Oxford.

Candler Deans Lecture: Religion and Revolution: Gender, Identity and Indigenous Rights in Mexico

Kathleen M. McIntyre, associate professor of gender and womens studies at the University of Rhode Island, will present Religion and Revolution: Gender, Identity and Indigenous Rights in Mexico. This free lecture will examine the intersection of gender, nationalism, tradition, religious conflict and community memory in Oaxaca during a period of Protestant growth in Mexico.

The event takes place in Room 252 of Candlers Rita Anne Rollins building and is available for livestream online. Lunch will be provided for in-person attendees.

The event is sponsored by Candlers World Christianity concentration, La Mesa Academy for Theological Studies and the Emory College of Arts and Sciences history department. Spanish interpretation will be available.

Hispanic Heritage Month Keynote Speaker: Mercedes Ramirez Johnson

Learn something new from Mercedes Ramirez Johnson, who will discuss the impact of her culture pushing her towards greatness after suffering a great loss nearly 30 years ago. The presentation takes place in Phi Gamma Hall on the Oxford campus.

Student Studio Night (in collaboration with the Carlos Museum)

Move along to the beats of La Choloteca, explore the exhibition You Belong Here: Place, People, and Purpose in Latinx Photography with Carlos Museum student guides, make art inspired by William Camargos sign interventions guided by printmaker Ciel Rodriguez  and show the world what needs to be made more visible.

This program is presented in conjunction with Centro Latinx and is free and open to all Emory Students. Food, art supplies, and swag are available on a first come, first served, basis.

Lecture: Bad Bunny, Ruega por Nosotros: Un Dialogo sobre el Reggaeton y la Teologia Catolica

Ismael Ruiz, postdoctoral teaching fellow in Catholic Studies, will present Bad Bunny, Ruega por Nosotros: Un Dialogo sobre el Reggaeton y la Teologia Catolicain Room 102 of Candler School of Theologys Rita Ann Rollins Building.

The bilingual event will discuss the intersection between Catholic theology and the popular genre of urban music known as reggaeton. Dinner is included and the event is sponsored by Candlers Aquinas Center of Theology.

More than Representation: Hispanic Heritage Month Edition

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month through a diversity dialogue panel on the representation of the Latino/a community nationally and internationally. Panelists will also discuss ways to destigmatize the Latino/a community in individual community spaces. The event takes place in Oxford Humanities, Room 202.

Centro Latinx x Escritores ATL Open Mic

Join Centro Latinx and Escritores ATL for an evening of poetry, food and community celebrating trans and queer Latinx voices!

The event takes place at Centro Latinx, located on the third floor of Cox Hall.

Constructing an Image: A Conversation with Atlanta Latinx Photographers

Join Atlanta-based photographers Victoria Garcia and Jose Ibarra Rizo in a conversation moderated by Yami Rodriguez, assistant professor in Emorys Department of History, as they discuss southern Latinx representation through photography, approaches to creating narratives, and the possibilities for how this work may be thought of as an archive, a place where specific stories and moments in time can connect a past, present and future Latinx South.

The event is free and open to the public, and will also be livestreamed for virtual attendees.
Google.org has selected safe+natal at Emory University and its partners at Maya Health Alliance | Wuqu Kawoq to receive a $1.8 million grant to equip midwives with an AI-powered application that will help detect problems earlier in pregnancy and avoid preventable deaths in the first month of life.

The grant will allow Emory and Maya Health Alliance to continue implementing the safe+natal initiative, which has demonstrated enormous success in improving pregnancy outcomes in Maya communities in rural Guatemala.

Guatemala has one of the highest neonatal mortality rates in Latin America, especially among the countrys Indigenous Maya population. While many problems leading to fetal distress during delivery and poor fetal growth can be addressed when identified early, the technology needed to detect them isnt readily available everywhere.

Co-designed by the husband and wife team Gari Clifford, Chair of the Biomedical Informatics Department in the School of Medicine, and Rachel Hall-Clifford, a medical anthropologist in the Center for the Study of Human Health and assistant professor in the Departments of Sociology and Global Health, safe+natal combines low-cost monitoring technology to support midwives in decision-making for their patients by offering access and training for a prenatal monitoring kit. Utilizing a smartphone, blood pressure cuff, and ultrasound to measure fetal growth during pregnancy and detect hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, the kit provides an efficient way to detect possible warning signs and help connect mothers to appropriate follow-up care.

The safe+natal toolkit also provides unprecedented rich data on fetal activity throughout pregnancy of the Maya community. Using this data, Clifford and colleagues in Emorys AI.Humanity initiative  a university-wide effort to advance AI technologies for societal benefit  have developed several AI innovations that they hope will continue to significantly improve outcomes in the Maya community, and beyond.

The Google.org AI for the Global Goals Impact Challenge Award will enable us to take our decision support algorithms to the edge of healthcare. By literally putting AI in the hands of Indigenous Mayan midwives, on their phones, they will be able to make instant assessments of fetal wellbeing, on a scale only limited by the number of available smartphones, says Gari Clifford.

Rachel Hall-Clifford adds, co-designing the safe+natal toolkit with our Guatemalan midwife colleagues has transformed the way we think about technology for community use. It really can  and should  be led by local partners. Its been incredible to see our Emory-based team help facilitate this.

The Emory and Maya Health Alliance partnership is one of 15 organizations receiving support through the $25 million philanthropy challenge for projects that use artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate progress towards these goals. Google.orgs AI for the Global Goals Impact Challenge is part of Googles company-wide commitment to help accelerate progress towards the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. Out of many submitted proposals, 15 were selected for funding. Importantly, all of the projects will be open-sourced, so other organizations can build upon the work.

Each of the 15 selected organizations share our vision for using AI to accelerate progress on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and each organization brings their own expertise to help move the needle, says James Manyika, Googles Senior Vice President of Research, Technology & Society. We are inspired by the possibilities they see for how AI can be harnessed to help people solve societal problems, and are excited about the collective impact they will have over the next three years.
PNN Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], September 13: After the successful conclusion in Mumbai, analytica Anacon India and India Lab Expo 2023 is all set to take place along with Pharma Pro&Pack Expo in the pharma hub of India, Hyderabad. This is the largest-ever edition of the event in Hyderabad and with this years theme, Epicentre of Progress, the event showcases solutions for the entire value chain, from research to end-of-line packaging. The triad event is well-known to bring top international and home-grown machinery manufacturers, suppliers of analytical instruments and laboratory equipment, leading pharma companies, research laboratories, consultants, industry experts and key government officials under one roof to network and unlock business opportunities. The event is a key enabler in presenting ground-breaking innovations in pharma machinery, laboratory technologies and analytical instruments to user industries such as pharma, biotech, chemicals, F&B, etc. in India. The latest edition of analytica Anacon India, India Lab Expo and Pharma Pro&Pack Expo creates a vibrant floor for networking and engagement for robust business collaborations. The technology providers get an unmatched opportunity to meaningfully engage with the end-user community through hosted buyer program, buyer-seller meetings and specially curated thought-provoking conferences.This year, the fair offers exciting conferences over three days in collaboration with associations such as the Indian Analytical Instruments Association (IAIA), Federation of Asian Biotech Associations (FABA) and Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA). Apart from these, life science graduates can connect with the leading life science companies actively seeking fresh talents at Career Connect, a specialized platform created with FABA. analytica Anacon India and India Lab Expo 2023 is jointly organized with IAIA.Chandrahas Shetty, President, Indian Analytical Instruments Association (IAIA),saidThere is a growing trend for customized and tailored solutions catering to specific needs and requirements of the end-user segments. This is leading to increased innovation and specialization in the laboratory analytical instrumentation industry. Messe Muenchen India and IAIA are jointly working in the direction of encouraging innovation through more participation by industry stakeholders. Through our shows, we attract key customer segments apart from the leading manufacturers of laboratory technology and analytical equipment. Pharma Pro&Pack Expo is jointly organized with Indian Pharma Machinery Manufacturers Association (IPMMA).Harshit Shah, President, IPMMA, says, One of the important measures taken by the government in Union Budget 2023 is investments in priority areas such as research and innovation to boost pharma manufacturing. Pharma Pro&Pack Expo demonstrates its commitment to pharma machinery innovations and is in line with the governmentsAatmanirbhar Bharatinitiative. The event empowers the manufacturing industry by facilitating an ideal ground for networking and the opportunity to get acquainted with the latest machinery by bringing the best of the industry under one roof. Regarding the scale and impact of analytica Anacon India and India Lab Expo and Pharma Pro&Pack Expo,Avisha Desai, Business Unit Head - Consumer & Capital Goods and International Business, Member of Management Board, Messe Muenchen India,says, The upcoming edition of analytica Anacon India, India Lab Expo and Pharma Pro&Pack Expo is expected to be the largest-ever gathering in Hyderabad bringing together stakeholders in the end-to-end pharma and other user industries. The event has received a tremendous response through its multi-city roadshows and registered a 40% growth in the participation of new exhibitors. Our deep understanding of the industry and the ability to build lasting relationships with all stakeholders drive us to create a vibrant marketplace that enables meaningful interactions and unlocks business opportunities. We endeavor to contribute to the industrys growth trajectory and supplement it with invaluable market insights through the latest discussion topics. (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Rear Admiral KM Ramakrishnan inaugurated the Naval Group India's advanced technical workshop in Karwar, Karnataka. The strategically workshop situated near the Indian Navy's Naval Ship Repair Yard, represents a significant move by Naval Group India to enhance its service capabilities in the country. Equipped with cutting-edge tools and staffed by well-trained Indian engineers, the workshop's primary goal is to provide timely services to the Indian Navy. A key objective of this facility is to collaborate with Indian Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to ensure seamless support for the Indian Navy's operational and maintenance needs, aligning with the 'Make in India' initiative, which promotes indigenous production and defense technology expertise. "This technical workshop at Karwar located close to the Indian Navys Naval Ship Repair Yard will house the necessary tools and trained Indian engineers to provide time-bound services together with the support from Indian Small and Medium enterprises (MSMEs). This workshop will complement Naval Groups other workshops in Mumbai," Naval Group said. One of the key objectives of this workshop is to collaborate with Indian Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to ensure seamless support for the Indian Navy's operational and maintenance requirements. This partnership with MSMEs aligns with the 'Make in India' initiative, emphasizing indigenous production and expertise in defense technology. Naval Group India's workshop in Karwar will complement its existing workshops in Mumbai. This expansion is expected to bolster the company's ability to meet the evolving needs of the Indian Navy efficiently. The inauguration of this technical workshop marks another step forward in strengthening the maritime capabilities of India and fostering collaborations between international defense companies and domestic partners. It signifies Naval Group's commitment to contributing to India's defense infrastructure and enhancing self-reliance in naval technology. The strategic location of the Karwar workshop, near one of the Indian Navy's crucial repair facilities, underscores the importance of this development in supporting naval operations and maintenance in the region. This initiative is expected to play a vital role in the continued modernization and growth of India's naval forces. Naval Group India's investment in local infrastructure and expertise demonstrates its dedication to the long-term defense and security goals of India, ultimately contributing to the nation's self-reliance and strategic capabilities in maritime defense. (ANI)
Amid ongoing gunfights between the security forces and terrorists in the Rajouri and Kupwara districts of Jammu and Kashmir, Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi on Wednesday said Pakistan was trying to send radicalised gunmen from across the border to disturb peace in the Valley. Two terrorists were gunned down in the ongoing Rajouri encounter while a soldier also laid down his life on the line. Kent, a dog from the Army's canine unit, also died shielding its handler from enemy fire. Speaking to media persons at the conclusion of the two day North Tech Symposium 2023 in Jammu, the Northern Army commander said, "Pakistan is upto its old tricks of sending terrorists across the border to disturb peace in Jammu and Kashmir. At a time when the Valley has set sights on welcoming 2.25 crore tourists this year, Pakistan is trying to unleash terror in the region yet again. However, we will not led Pakistan succeed in its nefarious designs." He was reponding to questions on the gunning down of two terrorists in the ongoing encounter thatbroke out in the Narla area of Rajouri district on Tuesday. Officials said earlier on Wednesday that one more terrorist were killed in the Rajouri gunfight. "Second terrorist has been gunned down in the ongoing encounter in Narla area of Rajouri," Mukesh Singh, additional director general of police (ADGP), Jammu, said. A top police official had on Tuesday said one terrorist was gunned down and a soldier lost his life in the ongoing encounter in Narla area.Three security personnel, including a Special Police Officer (SPO), also sustained injuries in the exchange of fire. "One terrorist neutralised; One Army jawan lost his life, three others including one police SPO injured in the ensuing encounter in Rajouri district," ADGP, Jammu said in a statement on Tuesday. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, another encounter broke out between security forces and terrorists in the the Kukernag area of Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district, according to Kashmir Police Zone. "Some officers from the Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police were injured in the trading of fire with the terrorists," a police officer said. (ANI)
The Secretary of the Central Ports, Shipping and Water Transport Department recently conducted a review of the performance of the ports from April to July of the financial year 2023.

VPA Chairman M Angamuthu praised the port on the achievement and suggested continuing this progress.

The Port Deputy Chairperson, Heads of Departments, Senior Officers and employees were informed about the progress made by the port.

The chairperson also congratulated the port partners (stevedores) who supported the port in achieving this feat.

The Union Ministry has been looking into some key aspects of the performance of major ports. The ministry considered factors like cargo volume, pre-berthing detention time, turnaround time, output per ship berth day, and idle time at berth.

Reportedly, VPA has shown progress in all these indices. Compared to last year, the port handled 33.14 million tonnes of cargo during the period, registering a growth of 3 per cent in cargo volume. 65 per cent increase in pre-berthing detention, 16 per cent increase in turnaround time, 14 per cent increase in output per ship berthing day and 4 per cent increase in idle time at berth. (ANI)
Taking a jibe at All India Congress Committee (AICC) General SecretaryPriyanka Gandhi over her visit to the disaster-hit Himachal Pradesh onj Wednesday, the former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition in the State Legislative Assembly Jai Ram Thakur alleged that she is touring the disaster-hit state eyeing "political mileage". The Himachal LoP said that the AICC chief is visiting the state almost a month after the heavy rains and floods wreaked havoc there. He further claimed that she is "doing a photoshoot" in the flood and rain-hit areas just to take political benefit out of it. If the Central Ministers and BJP president were here why she did not come at the time of disaster? Her visit is entirely a political tour, What contribution has she given and what she has planned for Congress to do in a disaster situation in the state? She should not provoke the emotions of the people of the state," he said. Speaking to ANI Thakur accused her of "misleading" the people of the state over the increase in import duty on apples. She is misleading the people of Himachal Pradesh saying that the import duty has been decreased by 35 per cent. This is not true she has a lack of knowledge on it. I am clearly saying that she should have said that the Congress Party government will do the possible help to the people but she is misleading the people on the name of apple import," he said. Further, he said, "To demand help from the centre is one part but she is alleging that the central government has not done anything, she is doing politics on disaster here. The Sukhu government is in a position of helping people only after the help of the Centre." Jai Ram Thakur further claimed that Priyanka Gandhi was answerless after the people of the state started asking questions about the ten guarantees made by Congress during the elections. "They (Congress Party) have made ten false promises, they misled people during the elections and again she is doing the same. People in every nook and corner of the state are asking what happened to the 1500 rupees to women, 300 free units of electricity, you promised that cow dung could be bought 2 rupees per kg and you promised 5 lakh jobs, where are all those? This is very unfortunate that you are playing politics on it, Jai Ram Thakur said. On being asked about the INDIA coalition, he said, The INDIA alliance, they are not in this situation that they can do any kind of election seat sharing. There will not be any seat-sharing consensus. The popularity of India after the G-20 across the world and the successful Chandrayaan mission, these parties are frustrated and people in India know the popularity of Modi and leadership." He also slammed Congress MP Rahul Gandhi for going abroad while the country hosted the G20 Leaders' Summit in Delhi earlier this month. Rahul Gandhi was out of the country during the G-20 meeting. He dreams of becoming the Prime Minister of India. The guests across the world were here and as he was afraid of exposing himself here he decided to go abroad. He has an old habit of speaking against the BJP but now he is speaking against India too. He has developed a habit of speaking against India and BJP whenever he is out of India, Thakur further added. (ANI)
As per the official release of the organisation, as many as 36 organizations affiliated with the Sangh will take part in the annual conclave attended by top RSS leaders.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will also attend the meeting.

In the meeting, issues ranging from an environment-friendly lifestyle to maintaining social harmony will come up for discussion.

Topics including environment-friendly lifestyle, life value-based family system, insistence on social harmony, swadeshi, and performance of civic duties will be discussed at the gathering.

The meeting will also compile challenges faced by society, decide a direction, and work with national spirit so that the pace of work can increase and the current socio-economic scenario in the country will also be discussed.

Representatives of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, Vidya Bharti, Saksham, Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, Seva Bharti, Rashtra Sevika Samiti, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, BJP, Bharatiya Kisan Sangh, and other allied organizations will also take part in the gathering. (ANI)
The judicial committee constituted by the Allahabad High Court to investigate the clash that broke out between the advocates and police in Uttar Pradesh's Hapur district on August 29, will meet on September 16 an official statement said. According to the statement, Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta has been appointed as the Chairman of the Committee formed to look into the grievances raised at the Bar in respect of the incident that occurred in Hapur. Tension escalated between the police and lawyers as Hapur Bar Association's officials and members earlier on August 29 were staging a protest over an alleged 'fabricated' case filed against a woman lawyer and her father and the police resorted to lathi-charge against the lawyers. "A Committee with its Chairman as Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta has been constituted to look into the grievances raised at the Bar in respect of the incident that occurred in District Hapur, Uttar Pradesh. The Chairperson of the Committee has been pleased to direct that the committee shall hold its meeting in the Committee Room, of the Allahabad High Court at 11.00 A.M. on 16.09.2023," the official statement said. The statement further said that people can also participate in the proceedings virtually, for which the VC link will be uploaded shortly. "By this notice, the persons aggrieved in the incident/members of the Public concerned are hereby informed that they may place their grievance/relevant material in the matter, before the Committee for its consideration. Those interested in participating in the proceedings in the virtual mode may do so, for which the VC link for joining the Committee proceedings virtually shall be uploaded shortly," it said. Earlier, a three-member inquiry committee was constituted by the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to investigate the incident of alleged Police violence on lawyers at Hapur, an official statement said. "In connection with the Hapur incident, a three-member inquiry committee was constituted by CM Yogi Adityanath under the chairmanship of Commissioner, Meerut," a statement from CMO, UP said. According to the statement, apart from Inspector General (IG) Meerut and Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Moradabad, Harinath Pandey, Retd Principal Judge, Family Court, Lucknow has also been included in this committee. "Further, a four-member inquiry committee has been asked to investigate all aspects of the incident and submit a report," it added. (ANI)
On the occasion of Hindi Diwas, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday stressed the need to strengthen all Indian languages and dialects with the hope that Hindi will become a medium to empower all. Expressing his views on the occasion of Hindi Diwas, the Minister said "Hindi neither ever has competed and nor will compete with any other Indian language", and that "original and creative expression of any country is possible only through its own language which we have to carry with us as all Indian languages and dialects are our cultural heritage." Extending his best wishes to the countrymen on the occasion of Hindi Diwas, Shah mentioned that Hindi unites the diversity of languages in the world's largest democracy. "Hindi has been a democratic language. It has honoured different Indian languages and dialects as well as many global languages and adopted their vocabularies, sentences and grammar rules. It also played an unprecedented role in uniting the country during the difficult days of the independence movement. It instilled a feeling of unity in a country divided into many languages and dialects. Hindi, as a language of communication, played an important role in carrying forward the freedom struggle from East to West and North to South in the country," stated the Home Minister. Considering the important role of Hindi in the freedom movement and after independence, Shah said, the architects of the Constitution had accepted Hindi as the official language on September 14, 1949. "Original and creative expression of any country is possible only through its own language," said the Minister. He emphasized that the progress of our language is the basis of all-round progress and that all our Indian languages and dialects are our cultural heritage, which we have to carry with us. Shah added that "Hindi neither ever has competed and nor will compete with any other Indian language. "Only by strengthening all our languages, a strong nation will be created," he said. The Home Minister expressed his belief that Hindi will become a medium to empower all the local languages. The Home Minister said that the Parliamentary Committee on Official Language was constituted to periodically review the work done in the official language in the country. It was given the responsibility to review the progress made in the use of Hindi in government work across the country and prepare its report and present it to the President. Shah added that he was happy to inform that the 12th volume of this report has been presented to the President. Only 9 volumes of the report were submitted till 2014, but we have submitted 3 volumes in the last 4 years only. Since 2019, Hindi Advisory Committees have been formed in all 59 ministries and their meetings are also being organized regularly. From the point of view of increasing the use of official language in various areas of the country, a total of 528 Town Official Language Implementation Committees (TOLIC) have been formed so far. Even in foreign countries, Town Official Language Implementation Committees have been formed in London, Singapore, Fiji, Dubai and Port-Louis. India has also taken initiatives to promote the use of the Hindi language in the United Nations. The Minister said that a new tradition of organizing the 'All India Official Language Conference' has also been started by the Department of Official Language. The first All India Official Language Conference was organized in Banaras on November 13-14, 2021 and the second conference was organized in Surat on September 14, 2022. This year the third All India Official Language Conference is being organized in Pune. He said that in order to develop the official language according to technology, the Department of Official Language has created a memory-based translation system 'Kanthastha'. Taking a new initiative, the Department of Official Language has also created the dictionary 'Hindi Shabd Sindhu'. This dictionary is being continuously enriched by including words from Indian languages included in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution. The department has also made an 'e-Mahashabdkosh' mobile app comprising a total of 90,000 words and an 'e-Saral' dictionary of about 9,000 sentences. (ANI)
Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday took a dig at the Oppositions INDIA bloc and said that they did not want development in the country. Goyal made the remark while addressing media persons in Madhya Pradeshs Gwalior district on Thursday. Talking about One Nation, One Election, Goyal said, This idea has been put forward by the leaders of many political parties at different times. If this idea is implemented then the countrys money and time will be saved. Workloads of the employees will be reduced. The opposition is afraid, it neither has a face, nor a character. The opposition does not want that there should be development in the country. Whenever the Opposition was in power, the country and the state lagged behind in development. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government created new dimensions of development, he said. Meanwhile, speaking about the upcoming state assembly polls slated later this year, the Union Minister said, This time there will be a one-sided election in Madhya Pradesh, the public has made up its mind and the BJP will get a majority in the state in the upcoming assembly polls. He further said that the INDIA bloc should promote itself, but their prince (referring to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi) was sitting abroad. "The INDIA bloc is even weaker than that of the UPA alliance," he added. Besides, targeting the Tamil Nadu Minister Udaynidhi Stalin over his remark on 'Sanatan Dharam,' Goyal said, Making false statements on any religion is against the Constitution. It was a well-thought-out strategy. Today the public is against it. Notably, Udhayanidhi's remark on 'Sanatan Dharma' had sparked massive controversy across the nation with several BJP leaders and Hindu priests strongly criticising his statement. Stalin had said, Few things cannot be opposed, they should only be abolished. We can't oppose Dengue, mosquitoes, Malaria, or Corona, we have to eradicate them. In the same way, we have to eradicate Sanatan (Sanatan Dharma). Rather than merely opposing Sanatan, it should be eradicated. (ANI)
BJP leader Tarun Chugh has expressed condolences to the families of two Army officers and a police officer killed in an encounter in Anantnag on Wednesday and said the desperate act of terrorists will further steel the determination of security forces to defeat their designs. An Indian Army Colonel commanding a Rashtriya Rifles Unit along with a Major and a Deputy Superintendent of Police were killed in a gunfight with terrorists in Kokernag area of Kashmir's Anantnag district on Wednesday. Chugh paid tributes to Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak and DSP Humayun Bhat. He said the perpetrators of the incident will not be spared. It is a desperate act of terrorists who are feeling frustrated due to the pressure of the security forces. The sacrifice of our valiant forces personnel is unforgettable and the killers won't go unpunished, Chugh said. The BJP leader said Pakistan is leaving no stone unturned to disturb peace in Jammu and Kashmir and is employing malicious tactics day in and day out to inflict wounds on the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed sympathies with the members of the bereaved families. "It strengthens our resolve to wipe out terrorism and its ecosystem with all roots," Chugh said. The Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday resumed the operation against the terrorists in the Kokernag area of the Anantnag district. According to theIndian Army, the security forces including Army andJammu and KashmirPolice are being provided support by small quadcopters and larger drones to keep an eye on the entire area. (ANI)
Congress leader Colonel Rohit Chaudhary hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for engaging in self-congratulations at a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) event in New Delhi at a time when Indian Army jawans in Rajouri were engaged in an encounter. "I am surprised that our Prime Minister Narendra Modi was engaged in his own felicitation when our soldiers were fighting for our country. Did they forget our soldiers?" Congress leader Colonel Rohit Chaudhary said speaking at a press conference in New Delhi. The BJP Parliament Board on Wednesday passed a resolution congratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the successful completion of the G20 summit in India and highlighting his "impeccable leadership and unwavering commitment". Slamming the Prime Minister, the Colonel said, "Why were you celebrating? Why were you getting felicitated by your own people? How important was it that you did not suspend your program despite such a major incident in the country?" The Congress leader played a video at the press conference and reminded the attendees that back in 2019, when the Pulwama terror attack took place Prime Minister Narendra Modi was busy shooting for a documentary. "In 2019 when 40 soldiers died while travelling to Srinagar by road on being denied travel by flight at a time when infiltration was at its peak, Prime Minister Modi was shooting for a documentary. His shooting did not stop as our soldiers blood kept flowing. Is this right?" the Colonel said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was reportedly shooting a Discovery documentary titled 'Man vs Wild' with Bear Grylls at the time of the encounter, the Congress leader claimed. Alerting the soldiers that it will be a difficult time for soldiers given the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha polls, Rohit Chaudhary said, "More than 30 terrorist attacks took place this year in the country. Many soldiers laid down their lives. This is a difficult time for soldiers since this is election time. Pulwama was done during the elections." An Indian Army Colonel commanding a Rashtriya Rifles Unit along with a Major and a Deputy Superintendent of Police were killed in a gunfight with terrorists in Kokernag area of Kashmir's Anantnag district on Wednesday. The killed officers have been identified as Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak and DSP Humayun Bhat. Earlier on Tuesday, two terrorists were killed by security forces during an encounter that began in the Narla area of Jammu and Kashmirs Rajouri district. (ANI)
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Thursday met Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot in Jaipur and lauded the work done by his government in Rajasthan. DK Shivakumar met CM Gehlot at the Chief Ministers residence in Jaipur. Govind Dotasara and several other ministers were also present in the meeting. Shivakumar took to X and lauded CM Gehlot for the work his government has been doing in Rajasthan. Happy to have met Rajasthan CM @AshokGehlot51ji and all the ministers of his Cabinet, amid exemplary hospitality over a hearty lunch at his residence. We discussed various aspects of governance and I complimented CM Gehlot for the tremendous work his government has been doing in the interest of the people of Rajasthan, Shivakumar said on X. CM Gehlot also welcomed Karnataka Deputy CM and said on X, Hearty congratulations to the popular Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, D.K. Shivkumar ji in Jaipur, the pink city of Veerbhoomi Rajasthan. Your arrival will strengthen the resolve for social security. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Thursday said the BJP-led central government is creating hurdles in the construction of an airport in Kota. Talking to the reporters, CM Gehlot said, "The Central Government is creating obstacles in the construction of Kota Airport. Kota MP and Speaker Om Birla should intervene in this matter and proceed with its construction in a timely manner." "However, if Om Birla cannot help in this, then we will take up this work and move forward," he added. Politics in Rajasthan has intensified as the legislative assembly elections in the state are scheduled to be held later this year. In 2018 the Congress won 99 seats while the BJP won 73 seats in the 200-member house. The Congress led by Ashok Gehlot formed the government with the support of Independents and the BSP. (ANI)
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Aravind Bellad and party workers held a protest at the Hubballi Dharwad municipal corporation commissioner's office, demanding permission to celebrate Ganesh festival at the Idgah Maidan. Hubbali-Dharwad West MLA Aravind Bellad, Mayor Veena Bhardwaj and other BJP members held a 'Dharna' (protest) at the commissioner's office and demanded approval for the installation of a Ganesh idol at the Idgah Maidan. "The Congress government is engaging in appeasement politics in order to gain support. The 'Dharna' (protest) will continue till we have permission to enter, we will only exit with the commissioner's office authorization," said Hubli-Dharwad West MLA Arvind Bellad. Bellad further said that the government is holding up approval for Anjuman-e-Islam, which has petitioned the High Court to prohibit the celebration at the Idagah Maidan. Meanwhile, Anjuman-e-Islam has moved to the Dharwad High Court bench seeking a stay for the celebration of the Ganesh festival in Hubbali's Idgah Maidan. Bellad on Wednesday alleged that the Siddaramaiah-led state government in Karnataka is "deliberately delaying" permission for the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi festival. "Congress government in Karnataka is deliberately delaying permission for Ganesh festival celebration for Hindu organizations," the Hubli-Dharwad West MLA said. Bellad said that though the Hubballi Dharwad Municipal Corporation has allowed the installation of Ganesh idol at the Idgah Maidan in Hubballi, the state government is "playing politics" and not permitting the celebrations. "Hubli Dharwad Municipal Corporation's general body has taken the decision to allow Ganesh idol installation in Idgah Maidan to Rani Chennamma Idgah Ganesh Utsav Samiti. But the state government is playing politics in this matter and not permitting the celebration of Ganesh festival for Ganesh Bhakts," the BJP MLA said. Bellad also warned that even if permission is denied, the Ganesh idol will be installed at the Idgah Maidan. Last year, the Karnataka High Court had allowed Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations to go ahead at the Idgah ground in Hubbali. The order rejecting the petition filed by Anjuman-E-Islam said, the ground is the property of the Hubli-Dharawad Municipal Commission and they can allot the land to whoever they desire so. This is the first time that the Hindu festival is being celebrated at the controversial ground. The Idgah ground in Hubballi has been caught up in a controversial dispute for decades until 2010, when the Supreme Court in its judgment held that, the ground is the exclusive property of Hubli-Dharawad Municipal Corporation. In 1921, the ground was leased to the Islamic organization, Anjuman-E-Islam for 999 years to hold prayers. Post-Independence, many shops were opened on the premises. This was challenged in court and a long litigation process started which halted in 2010 after the Supreme Court judgment. The top court had granted permission for prayers twice a year and not to build any permanent structure on the ground. (ANI)
Former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Kamal Nath on Thursday wrote a letter to Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for providing relief funds to farmers whose crop got damaged due to less rainfall in the state. A copy of the letter, which is with ANI, reads, The farmers are currently suffering from the severe effects of natural disaster in the state. Information has been received from the districts of Khargone, Sehore, Vidisha, Dhar, Neemuch, Harda, Hoshangabad etc. that due to the drought situation created in the state following less rainfall for a long period and due to the attack of tobacco caterpillar, soybean crop has suffered a lot. It has also been informed by the farmer that even after spraying pesticides two-three times, the caterpillar infestation has not been controlled, which indicates the sale of fake and adulterated pesticides in the market. Farmers are protesting in many districts demanding survey of crop damage and distribution of relief fund, but till now no effective action has been taken in the districts. Farmers across the state are on the path of agitation, the letter further read. The farmers in the state are extremely suffering and worried due to the loss of soybean crop, but still no positive initiative is visible from the government regarding the survey of crop loss and distribution of relief fund, which shows the insensitivity of the government towards the real problem of the farmers. The pain and dissatisfaction of the farmers in the state is continuously increasing and there is a need for immediate distribution of relief funds, it added. He further wrote that it was requested to urgently conduct a survey of the crop loss of the farmer under Revenue Book Circular 6 (4) and after assessing the loss, distribute the relief amount within seven days, so that the affected farmer gets immediate relief. (ANI)
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar along with his wife Sudesh Dhankhar is scheduled to visit Madhya Pradeshs capital Bhopal on Friday 15. Dhankhar will attend the convocation ceremony of Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism and Communication as a chief guest. During this, he will also inaugurate the new campus of the University. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan and Public Relations Minister Rajendra Shukla will also be present on the occasion. The Convocation ceremony will be held at the Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Auditorium located in the new campus of the college. Earlier, giving information about the event, vice chancellor of the University, Prof KG Suresh said, The convocation ceremony and inauguration of the new campus is being held on Friday (September 15) located in Bishankhedi area in Bhopal. It is the fourth convocation ceremony of the university, which will be attended by the visitor of the University and the Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar." He also informed that Chairman of the General Council of the University and Chief Minister of the State, Shivraj Singh Chauhan and newly appointed Public Relations Minister Rajendra Shukla will also be present in the convocation ceremony. Degrees will be awarded to the students who have passed from June 2018 to December 2022 in the convocation ceremony. The convocation ceremony was pending for a long time and could not be held due to the pandemic, but now this event is going to be held on Friday in the new campus, he added. (ANI)
India marked one year of the National Logistics Policy on September 17, 2023, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the NLP last year to complement PM GatiShakti's National Master Plan (NMP). According to an official release by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, "To complement PM GatiShakti's National Master Plan (NMP), the National Logistics Policy (NLP) was launched on 17 September 2022 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi." While the PM GatiShakti NMP addresses integrated development of the fixed infrastructure and network planning, the NLP addresses the soft infrastructure and logistics sector development aspect, inter alia, including process reforms, improvement in logistics services, digitization, human resource development and skilling, said the release. As per the release, the vision of NLP is to drive economic growth and business competitiveness of the country through an integrated, seamless, efficient, reliable, green, sustainable and cost-effective logistics network by leveraging best-in-class technology, processes and skilled manpower. This will reduce logistics costs and improve performance. The targets of the NLP are to reduce the cost of logistics in India, improve the Logistics Performance Index ranking the endeavour is to be among the top 25 countries by 2030 and create a data-driven decision support mechanism for an efficient logistics ecosystem, it said. "To achieve these targets, a Comprehensive Logistics Action Plan (CLAP) as part of the NLP was launched covering eight action areas including Integrated Digital Logistics Systems, Standardization of Physical Assets and Benchmarking of Service Quality Standards, Logistics Human Resource Development and Capacity Building, State engagement, EXIM Logistics, Services Improvement Framework, Sectoral Plans for Efficient Logistics (SPEL) and Facilitation of Development of Logistics Parks," it added. Since the launch of the NLP, significant progress has been made with respect to the implementation of the Policy. By means of regional conferences, one-on-one interactions, and inter-ministerial meetings, DPIIT has facilitated the implementation of NLP. An overview of these outreach activities is the Inter-Ministerial meeting on 28 July 2023. On completion of ten months of the launch of the National Logistics Policy (NLP), an inter-ministerial meeting to review the progress of its implementation was held by DPIIT, on 28 July 2023, it said. During the meeting measures taken by different Ministries to improve logistics efficiency in the country were showcased. The meeting saw participation from eleven infrastructure and user Ministries including the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH), Port Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) and others. The meeting was Chaired by the Special Secretary (Logistics). Secretary DPIIT joined during the closing session, said the release. The meeting was divided into two sessions. Session, I focussed on a review of measures undertaken by DPIIT and Session II covered progress in the implementation of the NLP by participating Ministries. DPIIT organised five regional workshops between 20 March and 12 April 2023. All workshops had a dedicated session on NLP, wherein key features and progress of NLP were showcased and participating States/UTs presented the status and key highlights of respective State Logistics Policies and other interventions, according to the release. Over 500 participants covering Officials from all 36 States/UTs and concerned line Ministries/Department, and representatives from knowledge partners and multilateral organisations, attended these workshops, it added. In an endeavour to further improve Indias ranking in the LPI, DPIIT has undertaken several measures. "To appraise the World Bank team about the several initiatives and reforms of the Government of India and draw their attention to the need for greater emphasis on objective-based methodology for LPI scoring, the Secretary of DPIIT met senior officials of World Bank Group at their headquarters in Washington DC," said the release. In continuation with that DPIIT held a series of meetings with the World Bank Group [Logistics and Infrastructure India team] and concerned line Ministries. A dedicated Unit is being set up within the Logistics Division to develop and implement an action plan for improving Indias LPI ranking. In addition, concerned line Ministries are setting up a dedicated cell for a focused project-based approach to improving Indias performance across the six LPI parameters. "In line with an approved institutional mechanism for the NLP, an Inter-Ministerial SIG was constituted on 14 March 2023. Chaired by SS (Logistics), this group comprises representatives from MoRTH, MoR, MoPSW, MNRE, MoP, DoT, MoPNG, MoCA, NITI Aayog, MoEFCC, MoHUA, DoR and DoC," said the release. The SIG has been constituted to facilitate speedy resolution of logistics services and processes-related issues of the industry, in a coordinated manner. Resolution of issues through SIG shall promote inter-operability; eliminate fragmentation in documentation, formats, processes, and liability regimes and reduce gaps in regulatory architecture, it added. As of date, 29 logistics sector associations are registered on the E-LoGs portal, with a total of 71 issues, of which 34 issues have been resolved. Regular roundtables with industry players and SIG meetings are held. To date, six meetings of SIG, along with industry associations have been held, it said. For digital integration in the logistics sector and to provide a single sign to users who are trading goods and using multiple modes of transport the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) was launched along with the NLP, according to the release. ULIP is an indigenous data-based platform that integrates 34 logistics-related digital systems /portals across Ministries / Departments. It is worth noting that GST data is also being integrated with ULIP. ULIP provides opportunities for the private sector to develop use cases on ULIP. By signing Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) and after due diligence, data on ULIP can be accessed through API integration and private players can develop apps/use cases, it added. "Over 614 industry players have registered on ULIP. 106 private companies have signed NDAs142 companies have submitted 382 use cases to be hosted on ULIP. 57 applications have been made live," it said. Infrastructure gaps are being addressed and digital initiatives are being undertaken (under the National Committee on Trade Facilitation), an EXIM Logistics Group has been constituted,and a comprehensive port connectivity plan developed by M/o port shipping and waterways, to address last and first mile infra gaps and promote seamless movement of goods to ports. "60 projects of MORTH and 47 Railways have been sanctioned to improve last-mile connectivity to ports. To improve port productivity and address issues, several meetings have been held with MOPSW, port authorities, etc., port process studies have been conducted at 3 Major Ports (Chennai, JNPT and Vishakhapatnam), and visits to ports are being undertaken by DPIIT," said the release. The Logistics Data Bank (LDB) is an application that tracks and traces EXIM cargo. With greater predictability, transparency and reliability, logistics costs will come down and wastages in the supply chain will be reduced, it said. "Using LDB data, a new analysis of port-wise vessel turnaround time is being prepared. Congestion between the port and the nearest check post is provided in the form of Port to CFS/ICD (For import cycle), CFS/ICD to Port (For export cycle), and Port to the nearest toll plaza," it added. Using these analytics, port authorities are taking measures to improve performance, said the release. (ANI)
The Delhi Police is organising lunch in different districts to celebrate the success of the G20 Summit. Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora had instructed all Deputy Commissioners to invite their respective staff for lunch in their own units, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) North East, Joy Tirkey said. "CP (Commissioner of Police) had given directions to all Deputy Commissioners that we should invite our staff for lunch in our own units and organise lunch. So we organised lunch today in the northeast district," DCP North East Joy Tirkey said on Thursday, speaking to ANI. The DCP also interacted with their staff and held a Sampark Sabha. "We also interacted with our staff since every one of us was together. It is called Sampark Sabha to discuss and solve their issues," he said. The Delhi Police Commissioner has been arranging dinner for officers to congratulate them for their hard work during the G20 Summit. "CP had also arranged dinner yesterday. He has also arranged dinner for some officers today. This is a kind of Thanksgiving lunch and dinner that we are organising," DCP Joy Tirkey said. The DCP said that the police have been preparing for the G20 summit for several months and it was an important assignment for them. "It is an occasion of happiness for us. We had been preparing for the G20 summit for several months. It was an important assignment for the Delhi police. We have fulfilled our responsibilities seriously," DCPTirkey said. "We were working 24*7 for the G20 Summit, working in rain and sunlight. It was a learning experience for all of us and now it is time to come together and congratulate one another," he added. The Delhi Police, along with other paramilitary forces, heightened security arrangements in the national capital as it hosted various G20 delegates from different countries for the G20 summit. The G20 summit was held in Delhi on Saturday and Sunday. (ANI)
Advocates who were on strike against the lathi charge restored on them by Uttar Pradesh's Hapur Police while they were staging a protest over an alleged 'fabricated' case, will return to work from Friday, said Shiv Kishore Gaur, Chairman of UP Bar Council on Thursday. The decision comes after a fruitful meeting held between the UP Bar Council and the representatives of the state government and both sides agreed upon several issues. Tension escalated between the police and lawyers as Hapur Bar Association's officials and members earlier on August 29 were staging a protest over an alleged 'fabricated' case filed against a woman lawyer and her father and the police resorted to lathi-charge against the lawyers. "Today a meeting was held and it was a fruitful meeting, strict action will be taken against those who are culprits in the incident (Hapur Incident). A committee will be formed on the Advocate Protection Act. With this, the lawyers of UP will return to work from tomorrow (Friday), said Shiv Kishore Gaur. Further talking about the decisions taken during the meeting between UP Bar Council and the state government Prashant Sharma Atal, Vice President of UP Bar Council said, "The advocates in the state were on strike (against the Hapur Incident) for the past few days. Today a meeting was held in connection with this. It was a fruitful meeting. Many matters were agreed upon in the meeting between the UP Bar Council and the government. A committee will be formed on the Advocate Protection Act. Strict action will be taken against all those cops responsible (for the Hapur Incident) as per the SIT reports and with this, the lawyers of UP will return to work," Atal said further. Meanwhile, a judicial committee constituted by the Allahabad High Court to investigate the incident will meet on September 16, an official statement said. According to the statement, Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta has been appointed as the Chairman of the Committee formed to look into the grievances raised at the Bar in respect of the incident that occurred in Hapur. "A Committee with its Chairman Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta has been constituted to look into the grievances raised at the Bar in respect of the incident that occurred in District Hapur, Uttar Pradesh. The Chairperson of the Committee has been pleased to direct that the committee shall hold its meeting in the Committee Room, of the Allahabad High Court at 11.00 A.M. on 16.09.2023," the official statement said. The statement further said that people can also participate in the proceedings virtually, for which the VC link will be uploaded shortly. "By this notice, the persons aggrieved in the incident/members of the Public concerned are hereby informed that they may place their grievance/relevant material in the matter, before the Committee for its consideration. Those interested in participating in the proceedings in the virtual mode may do so, for which the VC link for joining the Committee proceedings virtually shall be uploaded shortly," it said. (ANI)
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday expressed his condolences to the families of the two Indian Army personnel and one police officer who lost their lives in the encounter at Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district on Wednesday. An Indian Army Colonel commanding a Rashtriya Rifles Unit along with a Major and a Deputy Superintendent of Police were killed in a gunfight with terrorists in the Kokernag area of Kashmir's Anantnag district on Wednesday. "I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the two Indian Army and one police officer, who lost their lives in the tragic encounter with terrorists in Garol forests, Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district. Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten," Sukhu posted on 'X'. According to the officials, the officers who lost their lives in Anantnag's encounter have been identified as Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak and DSP Humayun Bhat. "An Indian Army Colonel commanding a Rashtriya Rifles Unit along with a Major have lost their lives in an encounter in Anantnag with terrorists in Kashmir. The off-vet was commanding 19 RR," Indian Army officials said. In a message on a micro-blogging site X, Kashmir Zone Police said: "In solemn tribute to the unwavering valor of Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak & DSP Humayun Bhat who laid down their lives leading from the front during this ongoing operation. Our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LET terrorists including Uzair Khan". The last rites of DSP Humayun Muzammil Bhat were performed in Budgam on Wednesday evening. (ANI)
Researchers discovered that people who prioritised achievement over enjoyment were less happy the next day. Those who aimed for freedom reported a 13 per cent increase in well-being, with improved sleep quality and life satisfaction. Participants who tried to relax and pursue their hobbies reported an 8 per cent increase in well-being and a 10 pc decrease in stress and anxiety. Dr Hanel collaborated with colleagues at the University of Bath on the study, which was published in the Journal of Personality. For the first time, it looked at how different values affect our happiness. Dr Hanel said, We all know the old saying All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy and this study shows it might actually be true. There is no benefit to well-being in prioritising achievement over fun and autonomy. This research shows that there are real benefits to having a balanced life and taking time to focus on enjoying ourselves and following individual goals. Ironically by doing this, people could in fact be more successful as they will be more relaxed, happier and satisfied. The study, Value Fulfilment and Well-being: Clarifying Directions Over Time, looked at over 180 people in India, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. They kept a diary for nine days and recorded how different values affected them. Surprisingly, all nationalities reported the same results, with 'hedonism' self-direction' values leading to greater happiness. The values of 'achievement' and 'conformity' had no effect on happiness. However, the researchers believe that achievement can have an effect on happiness when it is linked to job satisfaction or the number of days worked. Professor Greg Maio, University of Bath, said, This multination project was an exciting foray into questions about how values affect well-being in day-to-day life. People often spend most of their days working hard for their daily income, studies, and careers. Against this backdrop, where achievement-oriented values have ring-fenced a great portion of our time, we found that it helps to value freedom and other values just enough to bring in balance and recovery. In the future, it will be interesting to consider how this pattern interacts with relevant traits, such as conscientiousness, and situational contexts, such as type of employment. It is hoped the research will now influence mental health provision and influence therapeutic give to clients. Dr. Hanel added, Our research further shows that it might be more important to focus on increasing happiness rather than reducing c which is of course also important, just not as much. (ANI)
The Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the Memorandum of Understanding signed on June 12, 2023 between Indias Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology and and the Ministry of Information and Communications of the Republic of Sierra Leone on Cooperation in the field of sharing successful Digital Solutions implemented at Population Scale for Digital Transformation. The MoU aims to encourage closer cooperation and the exchange of experiences and digital technology-based solutions (i.e. INDIA STACK) in the implementation of both countries' digital transformational programmes, the Cabinet said in an official release. The MoU envisions greater collaboration leading to job opportunities in the sector of information technology. The MoU will take effect on the date of the Parties' signature and will be in effect for three years. Bilateral cooperation in the field of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) will be expanded on both a G2G and a B2B basis. The activities anticipated in this MoU will be funded through regular operating allocations made by their administration, the official release read. According to the official statement, MeitY is collaborating with a number of countries and multilateral agencies for fostering bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the ICT domain. Over the period, MeitY has entered into MoUs/MoCs/Agreements with its counterpart organizations/ agencies from various countries to promote cooperation and exchange of information in the ICT domain. This is in consonance with the various initiatives taken by Government of India such as Digital India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India etc. to transform the country into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. In this changing paradigm, there is an imminent need for exploring business opportunities, sharing of best practices and attracting investments in the digital sector with the objective of enhancing mutual cooperation. "Over the last few years, India has demonstrated its leadership in implementation of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and has successfully provided delivery of services to public even during COVID pandemic. As a result, many countries have evinced interest in learning from Indias experiences and entering into MoUs with India for learning from Indias experiences," the press release read. India Stack Solutions are DPls created and implemented at the population level by India to facilitate access and delivery of public services. It aspires to provide meaningful connectivity, promote digital inclusiveness, and enable easy access to government services. These are based on open technologies, are interoperable, and are intended to encourage business and community participation in order to drive innovation. However, each country's needs and obstacles in developing DPI are distinct, despite the fact that the core functionality is comparable, allowing for worldwide cooperation. (ANI)
Locals in Pakistan reserved high praise India for successfully hosting the 18th G20 Leaders' Summit. The big-ticket event, which drew heads of state of over 30 countries and delegates of leading international organisations, was hosted over two days September 9 and 10 at the state-of-the-art Bharat Mandapam at Delhi's Pragati Maidan. The two-day mega huddle saw the G20 members states adopt the New Delhi Declaration by consensus. The declaration even had a reference to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with the members, while not outrightly condemning Russia, called on all coutries to refrain from using force to grab territory. Among other key takeaways from the summit were announcement of an India-Middle East-Europe trade corridor and the formal induction of the African Union (AU) as a full member of the G20. Speaking to ANI, a Karachi local was effusive in his praise for India over its conduct of the G20, saying, "When heads of the top 20 countries visit a country, it is an honour for that nation. Indian economy will derive many benefits out of it (G20)." India took over the G20 presidency on December 1 last year at the summit in Bali and will continue to hold the mantle till the end of November. However, on the concluding day of the summit, PM Modihanded over the gavel of G20 Presidency to Brazilian President Lula da Silva. Another Pakistani local lamented the global isolation of Pakistan, saying, "The fact that India hosted the heads of the major economies also, in a way, casts a negative light on our foreign policy. Our economy and security situation have deteriorated significantly over the last 5-6 years.The world has sidelined us." The New Delhi Declaration was adopted on the inaugural day of the summit. Another local from Lahore questioned the host country, India, over inviting Bangladesh to the summit and not Pakistan. Prime Minister Modi had formally invited his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina to attend the G20 summit. At a time when we are desperately trying to lift our economy from the dumps, India played host to leaders of the 20 major economies of the world. The succesfully conduct of the global event would have filled the Indians with pride. We all saw pictures from India, of (PM) Modi posing with world leaders. They were successful in showcasing India in a positive light before a global audience. The 'Shezada' of Saudi Arabia (Crown Prince Salman) didn't come here (to Pakistani) but went to India for the G20 Summit. This shows the growing importance of India for the world.It was also surprising that Bangladesh was invited but Pakistan wasn't." Earlier, Pakistani media outlet Geo News had reported, citing sources, that the Saudi crown prince was to visit Pakistan in the second week of September. According to the report, during visit visit, Crown Prince Salman was expected to meet the country's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir. (ANI)
Slamming Elon Musk for calling Taiwan an "integral part of China," the Taiwan foreign minister has asserted that Taiwan is "not for sale". Musk, the owner of the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), as well as the Tesla (TSLA.O) electric car company and Starlink satellite network has stated that Taiwan is an integral part of China.His remarks at the All-In Summit in Los Angeles were recorded and posted to YouTube this week. "Their (Beijing's) policy has been to reunite Taiwan with China. From their standpoint, maybe it is analogous to Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China mostly because ... the US Pacific Fleet has stopped any sort of reunification effort by force," Musk said. Responding to this, Taiwans Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, posted on X on Wednesday night, Hope @elonmusk can also ask the #CCP to open @X to its people. Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off @Starlink to thwart #Ukraines counterstrike against #Russia. Listen up, #Taiwan is not part of the #PRC & certainly not for sale! JW. Taiwan has been claimed by the People's Republic of China as its territory. However, Taiwan's government claims that because the People's Republic of China has never ruled the island, it has no authority to claim sovereignty over it, speak for it, or represent it on the global stage, and that only the people of Taiwan can decide their future. Taiwan was formally recognised by just 13 countries: Belize, Guatemala, Haiti, Paraguay, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau, Tuvalu, Eswatini, and the Vatican City. However, after Tsai Ing-wen became Taiwan's president in 2016, nine countries shifted allegiances to China, and Beijing has amplified its diplomatic efforts to isolate Taiwan. Taiwan's government claims that it is a sovereign country with the right to state-to-state ties. (ANI)
The newly appointed Chinese ambassador to Afghanistan, Zhao Xing, has presented his credentials to the Taliban-appointed acting PM Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund in Kabul, TOLONews reported. The Taliban-appointed acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, Amir Khan Muttaqi, called the nomination of Zhao Xing a significant step with a significant message, According to the Al Jazeera, Afghan officials said the new envoys arrival is a sign for other nations to come forward and establish relations with the Taliban-led government. This is the normal rotation of Chinas ambassador to Afghanistan, and is intended to continue advancing dialogue and cooperation between China and Afghanistan, Chinas foreign ministry said in a statement. Chinas policy towards Afghanistan is clear and consistent, as reported by Al Jazeera. No foreign government has formally acknowledged the Taliban, and Beijing made no mention of Wednesday's appointment as a possible first step towards such recognition. The Afghanistan's seat at the UN is still held by the former Western-backed administration of former President Ashraf Ghani, and certain Taliban commanders are still subject to sanctions. As the West froze Afghan assets worth billions of dollars and refused to break its financial isolation, the Taliban has struggled to restore the economy and handle a humanitarian crisis. The Taliban leadership and China, the second-largest economy in the world, have been vocal about their desire for deeper connections, particularly commercial ones. Wang Yu, the last ambassador to Afghanistan, took up the role in 2019 while the administration supported by the West was still in power and completed the tenure last month, according to Al Jazeera. There are other diplomats in Kabul with the title of ambassador, but they all assumed their posts prior to 2021, when the Taliban took control following the withdrawal of US and NATO forces after 20 years of war. Since then, only a small number of nations and organisations, like Pakistan and the European Union, have dispatched senior diplomats to head diplomatic missions under the title charge d'affaires, which does not require presenting ambassadorial credentials to the host nation, Al Jazeera reported. (ANI)
Accusing police of making fake reports, Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP) has rejected the police reports on Jaranwalas blasphemy case with their new changed narratives. Naveed Walter, president of Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP), said that police have made fake reports on Jaranwalas blasphemy incidents. We reject both versions of police, first of foreign conspiracy just after the incident dated 16 August and now of honour crime to personal interests, he added. He also said that since the attacks on Jaranwala happened on August 16, where 21 Churches and about 100 houses were burnt, the series of attacks on Christians has started. Christians are being attacked in different areas of Pakistan while several Christians including women and children are in police custody in the name of investigations, HRFP added. Naveed Walter said that the police were reluctant to apprehend the actual perpetrators of incitement who did through planted blasphemy charges. On the other hand, there are multiple incidents that happened with Christians as aftershocks of Jaranwala, he added. Walter further said that there was a new dilemma of the extremists who marked Churches with Islamic slogans. The same has been seen on 21 August 2023 at a Church in Karachi named "The Central Brooks Memorial", and on 28 August 2023 the Presbyterian Church in Rehmat town, Faisalabad was among the buildings, targeted. He also said that after multiple incidents that happened to Christians, the State has failed to stop them, so they made new justifications that Christians are doing themselves. HRFP collected the facts of each incident and observed that these were an intentional series of attacks and threats to Christians to put pressure on them. HRFP not only reject but refuse to accept the police reports. It was reported that August 16, 2023, marked a tragic day for the Christian community in Jaranwala. A brutal and destructive attack unfolded, resulting in the desecration of 24 churches, some reduced to rubble, and the widespread looting and burning of hundreds of homes across 11 areas in the Faisalabad district. This eruption of violence was triggered by unfounded rumours and allegations of blasphemy targeting a Christian resident in Jaranwalas Christian Town. (ANI)
Pakistans first Sikh journalist and anchor, Harmeet Singh who was recently terminated from his job by Public TV alleged that he is facing extreme challenges to survive in the country. He was sacked after a complaint by Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader and former minister Shazia Atta Marri, who blamed Harmeet for spreading fake news about the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) raid on her and recovery of PKR 97 billion from her possession. According to Harmeet Singh, who made his mark as Pakistan's first Sikh journalist, acknowledged that last week he shared a news on his X (formerly Twitter) handle @HarmeetSinghPk that NAB had raided the residence of Shazia Atta Marri and had recovered Rupees 97 billion from her. He said that he had shared the news after the same was circulated in several local news channels and several independent journalists of Sindh on their social media accounts. Harmeet Singh, who also runs a YouTube Harmeet Singh channel, said that after he learnt that the news was fake, he deleted the tweet and sent a written apology to Shazia Marri acknowledging his mistake. He further said that instead of accepting his apology, Shazia sent him a legal notice of a Rs. 10 billion defamation case and used her political power to dismiss him from his job while threatening that if he is not removed, all government advertising would be stopped and the channel's license will be cancelled. Although, along with senior journalists met the caretaker Federal Minister for Information, Murtaza Solangi on September 9 and was assured of all possible help, Harmeet Singh informs that he had been categorically told by leaders of PPP that the doors of every media house are closed for him and his journalistic career is now over. Harmeet posted his video on YouTube and said, Its becoming very difficult for me to survive. I got a lot of job offers from foreign channels, but I wanted to work for my country. But, I was not aware that this country is a club of the elite class. He added, Everyone is aware about the situation of this country. Sikhs in large numbers are migrating from here. I had a wish to serve this country, and make people aware about the beauty of this country. But, I misjudged and besides the common people I didnt get any support". (ANI)
India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), comprising four nations of Iceland, Switzerland, Norway, and Liechtenstein will resume the next round of negotiations for Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) next month and hope to soon conclude the deal, a top official said here in the national capital on Thursday. In an exclusive interview with ANI, the Norwegian Ambassador to India May Elin Stener said, "We hope to strengthen India and Norway relations even further". Talking about the Free Trade Agreement, Stener said that Norway is negotiating with the EFTA group a free trade agreement with India and we hope to conclude that soon. That will mean that more Norwegian companies will look to India and offer more green solutions to India. Talking about the G20 Delhi Declaration, Norway's Ambassador added, "I congratulate the Indian government for achieving the consensus. That is a big achievement and they have been working very hard to get it. There are very good messages on combating climate change. This is very good and as Norway we congratulate India." Ambassador further added, "I hope that they will follow up on the New Delhi Declaration on all the issues particularly on the issues of combating climate change. So that we achieve a greener planet as soon as possible. The ambassador said that India is a fast-growing economy and lots of things are happening here. And I'm also happy to see that the goal is that the growth should be green. As Norway, we are very happy to support the green growth. She was talking on the sidelines of "3rd International Climate Summit 2023" organised by PHDCCI. (ANI)
As many as 11 people including Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) leader Hafiz Hamdullah were injured in a blast in Balochistans Mastung district on Thursday, Dawn reported. Dawn is a Pakistani English-language newspaper. Mobile phone footage broadcast on television showed a bloodied Hamdullah being supported by two gunmen as he spoke. Mastung Assistant Commissioner Attaul Muneem told Dawn that 11 people had been injured in the incident so far, adding that they were shifted to Quetta for medical treatment. Speaking to Geo News moments after the blast was reported, JUI-F spokesperson Aslam Ghauri said that Hamdullah was injured but not critically. He is okay. He is injured but the situation is not critical [] The gunmen and the others accompanying him also sustained minor injuries but they are okay. There is no serious issue at the moment, he said, as per Dawn. He said that Hamdullah and the others were travelling from Quetta to Kalat, adding that the incident occurred after they crossed Mastung. We still do not know if it was a suicide blast or a planted bomb. According to the information I have received, Hamdullah Sahib and two persons are injured. All are okay and the matter is not serious, he added. Ghauri said that the injured have been shifted to a hospital in Quetta. Separately, Balochistan Interim Home Minister Zubair Jamali strongly condemned the incident and directed the relevant authorities to submit a report in this regard, as per Dawn. He directed the district administration to help the injured, while also praying for their swift recovery. He said that all possible resources would be utilised to eliminate terrorists. Ex-president Asif Ali Zardari also condemned the incident and prayed for the injured. Terrorists and facilitators involved in terrorism should be brought under the law, he said. (ANI)
Bharat has become the 13th country in the world that can issue Internationally Accepted OIML (International Organization of Legal Metrology) Certificates, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution said on Thursday. The domestic manufacturers can now get their weighing and measuring instruments tested in Bharat and sell in the international market. It will also create a facility for international manufacturers to get their equipment tested in Bharat, leading to generation of revenue and employment. OIML is an Intergovernmental organization which was established in 1955. Bharat became its member in 1956. It has 63 Member States and 64 Corresponding Members. Bharat has now become authority for issuing internationally accepted OIML certificate for selling weights and measures anywhere in the world, the Ministry stated. The Department of Consumer Affairs can now issue now OIML Pattern Approval certificate, which is mandatory to sell a weight or measure in the International market Bharat follows OIML recommendations and procedures of testing and calibration of weights and measures. The reports prepared by the Legal Metrologys Regional Reference Standards Laboratories are now acceptable to the OIML issuing authorities. Now, Bharat is an authority for issue of OIML pattern approval certificates and can act as support system for indigenous manufacturers. The domestic manufacturers can now export their weighing and measuring instrument worldwide without incurring additional testing fees, resulting in significant cost savings, the Ministry added. Bharat can also support the foreign manufacturers by issuing OIML pattern approval certificates from our certified RRSLs. By issuing the OIML approval certificates of weighing and measuring instrument to the foreign manufacturers Bharat will also generate forex in terms of fees, etc. According to the Ministry, Bharat may now influence the OIML's policies and provide input to the OIML Strategy. This system allows OIML Certificates issued by OIML Issuing Authorities in OIML member states to be accepted by other participants as the basis for issuing national or regional type approvals for measuring instruments. The other OIML Members can thus issue national-type approval certificates without the need for expensive test facilities by relying on these certificates. Bharat now joins an exclusive group of nations, including Australia, Switzerland, China, Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark, France, United Kingdom, Japan, Netherlands, Sweden, and Slovakia, as the 13th country worldwide, authorized for issuing OIML approval certificates, the Ministry added. Rohit Kumar Singh, Secretary (Consumer Affairs), shared this achievement at a press conference, where a presentation and video were presented to illustrate the importance of this accomplishment. Today, we proudly announce Bharats ascent to the ranks of globally recognized OIML Certificates Issuing Authorities, a testament to our nation's commitment to quality standards and international trade facilitation, he said. Paul Dixon, Executive Secretary, OIML-CS, also joined from OIMLs Paris Headquarters for the briefing, re-affirming Bharats role as an OIML Certificates Issuing Authority and assuring continued cooperation. (ANI)
Spain Governments Director General Spanish Language Guillermo Escribano on Thursday discussed the possibility of Spanish language learning by students in West Bengal as well as teacher training in the language with Chief Secretary, H.K Dwivedi and Chief Advisor to Chief Minister, Alapan Bandyopadhyay and Principal Secretary, Industry, Commerce & Enterprises, Vandana Yadav. There is a demand for foreign language studies in the universities and colleges of West Bengal. The government has recently brought out the new State Education Policy and learning of foreign languages forms an integral part of it, as per an official release. The Director General of languages also sought opportunities for collaboration and learning NLP: National Language Processing and Artificial Language from the booming IT Industry in West Bengal. The officers invited a delegation from the Spanish Government, along with Universities to explore avenues of collaboration. Meanwhile, both sides will explore an agreement between the two respective governments which can be signed during the Bengal global business Summit to be held on November 21, 22 this year, as per the release. Meanwhile, Indian Air Force Chief Air Marshal VR Chaudhari on Thursday held talks with Spain's Defence Minister Margarita Robles and discussed matters pertaining to strengthening the bilateral relationship between both countries. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the IAF chiefs visit to Spain to receive made-for-India C-295 transport aircraft from Airbus on Wednesday. Taking to X, India Air Force informed, On the sidelines of his visit to formally accept the first C-295 aircraft, the CAS Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari called on the Defence Minister of Spain, Ms Margarita Robles. Matters pertaining to strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two countries were discussed during the meeting. (ANI)
A special court rejected the bail applications of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan and the party's vice chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi in the cypher case, Geo News reported on Thursday. Special court Judge Abual Hasnat Zulqarnain heard the bail applications and reserved the verdict after PTI's counsels completed their arguments. Later, the judge announced the reserved verdict, rejecting the post-arrest bail pleas of the PTI leaders. Earlier in the day, the same court established under the Official Secrets Act approved PTI leader Asad Umars bail in the case related to US cipher after a prosecutor told the judge that his arrest was not required at this stage, Geo News reported. Judge Zulqarnain approved the PTI leader's bail against the surety bond of Rs50,000 and also noted that Umar expressed willingness to join the cipher probe but the prosecution did not investigate him in the case. If Asad Umar's arrest is required, the FIA [Federal Investigation Agency] will proceed according to law, the judge ordered. He also directed the FIA to inform the PTI leader in advance before arresting him in the case. Notably, the FIA booked PTI chief Khan and the partys vice chairman Qureshi under the Official Secrets Act last month for allegedly misplacing and misusing classified document for vested political interests Subsequently, both leaders were arrested in connection with the investigation into the case and a special court was established under the Official Secrets Act to try the accused. Earlier on Wednesday, the special court extended Imran and Qureshi's judicial remand till September 26 in the cipher case. Meanwhile, the cipher controversy first emerged on March 27, 2022, when Imran Khan just days before his ouster in April 2022 brandished a letter, claiming that it was a cipher from a foreign nation, which mentioned that his government should be removed from power, according to Geo News. He did not reveal the contents of the letter nor mention the name of the nation that had sent it. But a few days later, he named the US and alleged that Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Affairs Donald Lu had sought his removal. The cipher was about former Pakistan ambassador to the US Asad Majeed's meeting with Lu. The former PM, claiming that he was reading contents from the cipher, said that "all will be forgiven for Pakistan if Imran Khan is removed from power". Then on March 31, the National Security Committee (NSC) took up the matter and decided to issue a "strong demarche" to the country for its "blatant interference in the internal affairs of Pakistan". Later, after his removal, then-prime minister Shehbaz Sharif convened another meeting of the NSC, which came to the conclusion that it had found no evidence of a foreign conspiracy in the cipher. The cipher case against the former premier became serious after his principal secretary Azam Khan stated before a magistrate as well as the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) that the former PM had used the US cipher for his "political gains" and to avert a vote of no-confidence against him, Geo News reported. The former bureaucrat, in his confession, said when he provided the ex-premier with the cipher, he was "euphoric" and termed the language a "US blunder". The former prime minister, according to Azam, then said that the cable could be used for "creating a narrative against establishment and opposition". Azam further alleged that the US cipher was used in political gatherings by the PTI chairman, despite his advice to him to avoid such acts, according to Geo News. He mentioned that the former prime minister also told him that the cipher could be used to divert the public's attention towards "foreign involvement" in the opposition's no-confidence motion. (ANI)
US President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden has been indicted on Thursday on three counts of illegaly possessing a firearm while being addicted to drugs, reported New York Post. First son Hunter Biden was indicted in Delaware by special counsel David Weiss. Moreover, the charges against Hunter can carry up to 25 years in prison and could further form the first of multiple criminal cases, according to New York Post. Hunter, who is 53, may also face tax fraud and illegal foreign lobbying counts in DC and Los Angeles. However, Hunter Biden was also accused of lying about his drug use on a gun purchase form in 2018 when he bought a Colt Cobra revolver. According to New York Post, he also wrote in his 2021 memoir "Beautiful Things" that he was abusing drugs at the time. The indictment of Biden's son is related to three counts; violating federal laws governing gun ownership, lying to authority figures and interstate commerce. Moreover, earlier in July, Hunter walked away from a plea deal that would have granted him two years of probation for not paying over USD 2 million in taxes on foreign income from countries such as China and Ukraine. As part of the plea deal, Hunter would have been admitted to the gun offense but it would have been expunged after the completion of probation. Earlier on Wednesday, Speaker Kevin McCarthy authorised House committees on Tuesday to launch a formal impeachment probe on US President Joe Biden based on the House GOP's investigations into his family's foreign business ties and the prosecution of his son Hunter Biden, The Hill reported. McCarthy's formal support for impeachment comes after he previously stated that he believed the House probes would eventually lead to an impeachment investigation. The House Oversight Committee has not concluded that Biden directly benefited financially from his son Hunter Biden's business operations or that he made any policy judgements as a result of them in the months that it has been studying them.(ANI)
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A $1.3 million federal grant was awarded to the Wolf River Conservancy to protect an additional 1,536 acres of wetlands along the Wolf River.

The North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant was approved by the Department of Interiors Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, according to a press release from Congressman Steve Cohen.

Wolf River Conservancy awarded $1 million federal grant

It is expected to be matched by $2,095,142 in funding from partners including the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, the City of Memphis, Shelby County, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, and private landowners.

Congressman Cohen made the following statement regarding the grant.

The Wolf River is a unique and wonderful natural resource in our region, teeming with wildlife. This funding to expand its footprint will protect migrating birds and preserve their habitat in West Tennessee and will enhance the experience of those seeking to explore and enjoy its natural beauty.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
The last of a generation of Americans of Japanese ancestry to be forced into northeastern California's Tule Lake prison camp during World War II wants everyone to remember how quickly people can lose their precious civil rights.

Those still speaking out include Jim Tanimoto, who lives in Gridley. He said he doesnt want what happened to him and his family during the war to ever happen again.

Theres not many of us left now. This happened 81 years ago, said Tanimoto, who celebrated his 100th birthday on June 3, 2023.

Jim Tanimoto, 91, of Gridley in 2014. Now 100 years old, Tanimoto is one of about 27,000 people imprisoned in the Tule Lake prison camp from 1942 to 1946.

What happened at Tule Lake?

In Modoc County near the Oregon border, an 84-mile drive through wilderness northeast of Weed, Tule Lake National Monument bears little of the splashy signage that tourists find at other national parks.

The Tule Lake Segregation Center was the largest of the nations 10 prison  formerly called internment  camps.

From 1942 to 1946, Tule Lake housed 27,000 Japanese Americans, according to the National Parks Service. Two thirds of those held at at the North State detention center were American citizens.

The rest "were first-generation immigrants who, due to discriminatory immigration laws, were denied the right to become U.S. citizens until 1952, according to Barbara Takei, a member of the Tule Lake Committee, a group that works to collect and save survivors' stories and lobbies to preserve the camps site because of its historical significance.

Incarceration of Japanese Americans in detention camps was deemed necessary to protect the country from potential acts of espionage or sabotage that might be committed by someone of Japanese ancestry," according to a study published by the American Psychological Association in 2019. However, a government investigation in 1980 found no evidence to support that fear, calling the mass incarceration "a grave injustice fueled by racism and war hysteria," the association's study said.

Of the more than 120,000 Japanese immigrants and their American-born children and grandchildren imprisoned from 1942 to 1946, about 27,000 were interned at Tule Lake in Siskiyou and Modoc counties.

Over the four years the detention camp operated, 331 adults and children being held at Tule Lake died there, said Takei.

People who protested or were accused of protesting at any of the camps ended up at the Tule Lake Segregation Center's maximum-security facility for dissidents, which was equipped with a stockade and jail on the grounds, according to the National Parks Service.

After being released at the war's end, some prisoners protested having been held against their will. But most were so traumatized by their experience in the camps that they kept their stories to themselves. Some even blamed themselves for not being more American" and felt humiliation and shame, the American Psychological Association study said.

Takei called their race-based detention a hateful response to fear and anxiety that was also used by political leaders during World War II, a rationale to strip the entire Japanese American population on the West Coast of rights, property and freedom and to forcibly remove them to concentration camps.

Many Tule Lake survivors lost their homes and property while incarcerated. Over the years, after the camps were disbanded, they would meet periodically with other prison camp survivors for social support, first in San Francisco and Sacramento, and then at Tule Lake.

The Tule Lake Committee still hosts gatherings every two years at the camp for survivors and their families.

How Pearl Harbor led to the imprisoning of 27,000 Japanese Americans in far Northern California

With Congress passage of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, survivors said many of those who had been detained felt compelled to finally share their stories in schools, books and news outlets. The 1988 law acknowledged the injustice of internment, apologized for it and provided a $20,000 cash payment to each person who was incarcerated, according to the National Archives.

Now, decades after the internment camps closed, just a few detainees are left to educate people who are unaware of what happened there, Takei said.

With the FBI reporting that race-based attacks against people of Asian heritage are on the rise in the U.S., some Tule Lake survivors and their families worry that history could repeat itself.

Note to readers: If you appreciate the community journalism we do here at the Redding Record Searchlight, please consider subscribing yourself for giving the gift of a subscription to someone you know.

To those who doubt Americans could again be denied freedoms due to their race, Tanimoto said: I say look at the Black people. Look at the (Native Americans). All were denied due process of the law.

Imprisoned at Tule Lake: Under armed guard, with 'a view of Mt. Shasta'

Tanimoto was born in 1923 in Marysville, the son of Japanese parents who migrated from Hiroshima in the early 1900s.

Like most Japanese immigrants, his family farmed, said Tanimoto, who grew up with four brothers and two sisters in the family's home in Gridley in Butte County. They grew peaches for a local cannery, he said.

Jim Tanimoto of Gridley at his 99th birthday in 2022. Now 100 years old, Tanimoto is one of about 27,000 people imprisoned in the Tule Lake "internment" camp from 1942 to 1946.

The 1913 Alien Land Law prohibited Asian immigrants from owning land. They were forbidden citizenship, based on their race.

In the 1920s, California law also barred American-born children of Asian immigrants from leasing or buying land. So the family bought their farm in the name of a trusted friend who was an American citizen, Tanimoto said.

On Dec. 7, 1941, the day after the Japanese military attacked Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, Congress declared war, entering World War II.

Tanimoto and his family were automatically declared enemies of the United States. American troops came for them in July, 1942, including his older sisters four young children, Tanimoto said.

When we left, it was a few days before 1,000 tons of peaches were ready for harvest, he said. With the family gone, the fruit fell to the ground and rotted, he said.

Guards bussed the family to Tule Lake, said Tanimoto. Block 42 became his home. He and his four brothers lived in a 16-foot by 20-foot room in military barracks covered with tar paper.

Of the more than 120,000 Japanese immigrants and their American-born children and grandchildren imprisoned from 1942 to 1946, about 27,000 were interned at Tule Lake in Siskiyou and Modoc counties.

We were behind a barbed wire fence and guard towers. There were American soldiers with rifles and machine guns" patrolling the camp, Tanimoto said.

Searchlights "shined on us every night," he said.

Temperatures soared over 100 degrees in summer, then dropped below zero in winter.

Dry weather would form cracks in the floorboards and wind blew dust and dirt under the walls, coating the few personal items the family was allowed to bring with them to the camp, Tanimoto said. He and his family battled dust devils, whirlwinds, scorpions, mosquitoes and rattlesnakes.

The camp was exposed to the sun in an area so barren, Tanimoto said he had "a view of Mt. Shasta," more than 70 miles to the southwest.

People held at the camp did what they could to keep their children educated and their families fed. They grew their vegetables over acres of drained lake bottom, eating what they farmed, according to Tanimoto.

People imprisoned at Tule Lake internment camp in 1942 or 1943 plant celery in the drained lake bottom.

The camp was like a city," he said. "We had post offices, we had banks, we had schools. Each morning, the school children would recite the Pledge of Allegiance while circling the American flag."

He and some other prisoners earned permits allowing them to leave the Tule Lake camp for short periods. Tanimoto said he would walk a mile to Castle Rock, an 800-foot bluff that was once an island in the drained lake.

When youre up on top, you can see the geese flying under you," Tanimoto said.

A replica of a cross placed there by those incarcerated at Tule Lake stands on Castle Rock in the Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

How Pearl Harbor led to the internment of 27,000 Japanese Americans in the North State

Tanimoto returns home

The Tule Lake Segregation Center once housed 27,000 Japanese Americans, imprisoned there during World War II.

After the U.S. government released Tanimoto and most of his family from the camp on Feb. 26, 1944, the vice principal of Tule Lake High School drove them back to Gridley in his station wagon. "We were home in five hours, Tanimoto recalled.

While they were away, a family of Portuguese immigrants intent on helping the family during their ordeal harvested their 1943 peach crop, then leased the farm, Tanimoto said. They kept the Tanimotos farm well tended.

Not everyone held in the camps was as fortunate. Many families renting or making mortgage payments lost their homes and properties while imprisoned, Tanimoto said.

For several decades, Tanimoto joined pilgrimages to Tule Lake to rekindle friendships with other former prisoners. His wife, Haruko  also imprisoned at Tule Lake  accompanied him until her death in 1998.

Months after his release, Tanimoto went back to pick up his then-fiancee, still at Tule Lake. She was released and we were married at the camp," he said. They were married for 53 years.

Jessica Skropanic is a features reporter for the Record Searchlight/USA Today Network. She covers science, arts, social issues and news stories. Follow her on Twitter @RS_JSkropanic and on Facebook. Join Jessica in the Get Out! Nor Cal recreation Facebook group. To support and sustain this work, please subscribe today. Thank you.

This article originally appeared on Redding Record Searchlight: 100-year-old Japanese American detained at Tule Lake tells his story
Scottsdale Police Department.

Scottsdale police arrested 12 youths, including students from Saguaro High School and Mohave Middle School, after police say they were involved in physical fights and a robbery.

According to police, the first incident took place on Aug. 18 in the Bashas' parking lot at McDonald Drive and Granite Reef Road. Five youths were later identified and arrested for their involvement in a physical fight.

The second incident occurred later that same day. Four youths were arrested and accused of robbing another youth at Fashion Square mall. Police said they were also involved in the earlier fight at the Bashas'.

Police said another three youths were arrested and accused of assaulting another youth at the McDonald's near McDonald Drive and Granite Reef Road after school on Aug. 21.

Police said their names would not be released.

"Our investigators had numerous witnesses to interview and multiple videos to review to make sure they positively identified the suspects," Officer Aaron Bolin, a spokesperson with the Scottsdale Police Department, told The Arizona Republic. "Which is why the arrests happened about two weeks after the different incidents. These were not random acts. (They) knew each other through school and related friend groups."

Police said some of the students who were arrested in the fight at Bashas' were eligible and have been referred to the Restorative Justice Intervention Program. Those who complete the program will have no criminal charges filed.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: 12 youths arrested in connection with fights, robbery in Scottsdale
A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on a charge of murder in connection with the shooting death of a young woman in Lawrence last week, officials announced Thursday.

Jobe Santiago, of Lawrence, is slated to be arraigned in Lawrence District Court on a charge of murder in the death of 19-year-old Angie Aristy, according to Essex District Attorney Paul F. Tucker.

Officers responding to a report of shots fired in the area of 300 Howard Street on Sept. 6 found Aristy suffering from a gunshot wound, Lawrence police said.

Aristy was taken to Lawrence General Hospital, where she died from her injuries.

Santiago was tracked down and arrested Wednesday by Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the Essex DAs office, U.S. Marshals, and Lowell and Lawrence police.

A second juvenile has also been charged with assault with intent to rob in connection with Aristys death.

An investigation remains ongoing.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
A 16-year-old girl died after her car went off a rural road Wednesday morning in Sutter County and overturned into a water-filled canal, the California Highway Patrol reported.

The fatal crash occurred about 7:30 a.m. on Clements Road, just north of Bogue Road, a few miles west of Yuba City.

The girl, a resident of Knights Landing in Yolo County, was driving a 2014 Chevrolet Camaro west on Bogue and approaching the 90-degree curve to Clements, the CHP Yuba-Sutter office said in a news release.

The teen driver was unable to safely make the right turn, and the car went off the west side of Clements. The CHP said the Camaro overturned into the canal.

A witness called 911 to report the crash. The teen was unable to get out of the car. The CHP said firefighters arrived at the scene and jumped into the canal to free the driver.

Several minutes later, the firefighters freed the girl, who was unresponsive, the CHP said. Firefighters began CPR on the driver. She was taken by ambulance to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead shorty after arrival, authorities said.

The CHP said it is not known whether drugs or alcohol were a factor in this collision. The Sutter County Coroners Office will release her name after her family has been notified.
Dive teams are returning Thursday to search for two men who disappeared into the water after a tubing accident in Lake Perris a day earlier.

California State Parks dispatchers received a distress call around 4 p.m. Wednesday reporting an accident in the boating zone just north of Alessandro Island.

The person who called in the report told responders a man was tubing behind their boat when he fell into the water and could not swim back to the tube.

Another man, who was a passenger on the boat, then jumped into the water to attempt to rescue the tuber and also began to struggle.

Both men went under the water in distress and did not surface, a State Parks official confirmed.

The unidentified men were about 45 years old, according to the official.

Gas cloud prompts dozens of homes to be evacuated in West Whittier

The men were not wearing life jackets and are presumed missing under the water, the official stated.

Lifeguards and a Riverside County Sheriffs Department dive team were called in to assist with the search.

The rescue operation was suspended Wednesday night around 10 p.m. but would resume Thursday morning, the official said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
At least 11,300 are now believed to have died after torrents of water ripped through eastern Libya  a devastating toll that could largely have been avoided, global officials said Thursday.

Marie el-Drese, secretary general of the Libyan Red Crescent, told The Associated Press by phone that a further 10,100 had been reported missing in the ruined city of Derna. Earlier, city officials said the death toll could reach 20,000.

A precise tally of the rising number of people killed is incredibly difficult to compile given the level of destruction and the chaotic political situation in the region, with bodies still washing up on the shore and burials being held in mass graves.

As rescuers searched underwater and under rubble, fears grew that rotting bodies could lead to a deadly outbreak of disease.

Death toll could still soar

A deluge of rainfall from Mediterranean storm Daniel caused two dams to collapse, sending waves more than 20 feet high through the heart of Derna, a port city in the country's east.

More than 7,000 residents were wounded, ambulance service spokesman Osama Ali told NBC News.

Numbers have varied depending on which official has provided them, though all put the toll well into the thousands and Derna's mayor has said that it could more than triple as search teams and survivors find more bodies in the ruins.

The situation is very large and surprising for the city of Derna. We were not able to confront it with our capabilities that preceded the storm and the torrent, Mayor Abdel Moneim al-Ghaithi told Sky News Arabia on Wednesday night.

His office said that the number of those killed could hit 20,000  around a fifth of the citys population  based on estimates of those living in areas that were swept away.

The rainwater that gushed down Derna's mountainside and into the city has killed thousands and left thousands more missing, washing entire neighborhoods out to sea. (Muhammad J. Elalwany / AP)

Most of the deaths could have been avoided if authorities had better warning systems in place, the United Nations weather and climate agency said Thursday.

They could have issued the warnings and the emergency management forces would have been able to carry out the evacuation of the people, and we could have avoided most of the human casualties, Petteri Taalas, head of the World Meteorological Organization, told reporters in Geneva according to the AFP news agency.

The agency said this week that it issued warnings 72 hours before the dams collapsed, including contacting the Libyan authorities and making statements to the media. This led to a state of emergency being declared in the North African country.

The rainwater that gushed down Derna's mountainside and into the city has killed thousands and left thousands more missing, washing entire neighborhoods out to sea. (Jamal Alkomaty / AP)

Search teams are combing streets, wrecked buildings, and even the sea to look for bodies in Derna, where the collapse of two dams unleashed a massive flash flood that killed thousands of people. (Yousef Murad / AP)

One day before the storm hit Libya, the mayor said at a news conference that some areas surrounding the dam should be evacuated. But an emergency committee formed by the eastern governments Interior Ministry ordered curfews instead.

A spokesperson for the mayor also said out the citys dam had not been maintained since 2008 because of Libyas fractious politics.

Mohamed Manfi, president of the Presidential Council of Libya, said Thursday on X, the social network formerly known as Twitter, that the countrys public prosecutor would open an investigation into any possible negligence that contributed to the disaster.

As some seek to find who to blame for the catastrophe, a humanitarian disaster is also unfolding for survivors.

Fears are rising of waterborne disease affecting the area, especially with rotting bodies still washing ashore. Access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene facilities will be required to prevent a further crisis within a crisis, Elie Abouaoun, country director for Libya at the International Rescue Committee, said in a statement Wednesday.

Around 30,000 people from Derna are displaced, according to the International Organization for Migration, a U.N. agency.

Satellite imagery has shown the sheer scale of the destruction wrought by the floods. A government official estimated Wednesday that 25% of the city was completely destroyed or washed away.

Rescue teams from neighboring Egypt and Tunisia have arrived, alongside crews from Turkey, Italy and elsewhere.

But their efforts have been hampered by destroyed roads, as well as the interruption of power and communications in the city.

Maxar satellite imagery of streets, neighborhoods and bridges after the catastrophic flooding that struck the Libyan coastal city of Derna. (Maxar Technologies / DigitalGlobe/Getty Images)

Libya Derna Floods (AFP - Getty Images)

Othman Abduljaleel, the eastern Libyan government's health minister, said divers were searching seawaters off Derna.

In accordance with Islamic tradition, in which bodies are buried as soon as possible, more than 3,000 have already been placed in mass graves, he said.

The hope of finding survivors has all but faded as a colossal cleanup and recovery operation begins.

The Tripoli Public Services Company began clearing rubble in Derna's previously densely populated center Wednesday in an operation running round the clock, the state-run Libyan News Agency reported.

Its staff members are divided into three teams: one to remove rubble that may have trapped victims, one to pump out stagnant standing water and one to reopen paths by removing fallen buildings and cars swept away by the floods.

Mediterranean storm Daniel caused devastating floods in Libya that broke dams and swept away entire neighborhoods and wrecked homes in multiple coastal towns in the east of the North African nation. (AP)

Flash floods in eastern Libya killed more than 2,300 people in the Mediterranean coastal city of Derna alone, the emergency services of the Tripoli-based government said on September 12. (AFP - Getty Images)

The enormous task of providing immediate aid and then rebuilding Derna is complicated by the legacies of a decade of civil conflict, which has left two rival governments ruling eastern and western Libya.

Derna is controlled by the Libyan National Army, run by Field Marshal Khalifa Hifter and based in the eastern city of Tobruk. The rest of the country is run by the Government of National Unity based in the capital, Tripoli, in the west.

This split has hampered reconstructions efforts for years  though aid workers say both sides are now talking to each other.

"Both governments have reached out to the international community requesting services and help," Tauhid Pasha, of the International Organization for Migration, told BBC Radio on Wednesday night.

"The Government of National Unity has extended its support to us and its request on behalf of the entire country and they are also coordinating with the government in the east," he said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
TechCrunch

Apple has warned over a half dozen Indian lawmakers from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's main opposition of their iPhones being targets of state-sponsored attacks, these people said Tuesday, in a serious digital espionage charge just months ahead of next year's general elections. Rahul Gandhi, Indian opposition leader, said in a media briefing Tuesday that his team had received the said alert from Apple. Shashi Tharoor, a key figure from the Congress party; Akhilesh Yadav, the head of the Samajwadi Party; Mahua Moitra, a national representative from the All India Trinamool Congress; and Priyanka Chaturvedi of Shiv Sena, a party with notable influence in Maharashtra reported that they too had been notified by Apple regarding a potential security attack on their iPhones.
Kate Middleton is known for her feminine royal style, especially during the fall season.

Insider looked back at the royal's most fashionable autumnal outfits.

From jewel-toned sweaters to plaid blazers and knee-high boots, the princess masters fall fashion.

Kate Middleton has been known to wear everything from affordable fashion brands to high-end items, but it's her fall style that stands out from her other looks.

As the weather turns colder, we decided to look back at the royal's most fashionable autumnal outfits.

Here are 22 of Kate Middleton's best fall fashion moments.

Before she was officially a royal, Kate Middleton knew how to rock a fall fashion look.

Kate Middleton at Cheltenham Racecourse in Gloucestershire in 2007. CARL DE SOUZA/AFP/Getty Images

Pictured here at Cheltenham Racecourse in Gloucestershire in 2007, the soon-to-be royal embodied autumnal British style in an olive jacket and simple button-down.

While the sunglasses are very reminiscent of 2000s fashion, this look could easily be recreated today.

Plaid is basically synonymous with fall fashion, and this dress-and-jacket combination is no exception.

Kate Middleton in November 2012. Arthur Edwards/WPA Pool/Getty Images

Kate paired plaid with understated black tights and suede boots.

The duchess wore this nautical-inspired fall look during an appearance in October 2013.

Kate Middleton in October 2013. Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

While pairing wedges with a striped shirt might seem more like a summer trend, throwing a blazer over the top makes the outfit more fall-appropriate.

Kate wore this walnut-brown printed dress by Orla Kiely to a charity event in 2013.

Kate Middleton in November 2013. Karwai Tang/WireImage/Getty Images

From the button details on the dress' bodice to the duchess' brown suede booties, the look is chic enough for a royal engagement yet casual enough for anyone to wear out on the town this fall.

Kate Middleton may have worn this cream sweater in the spring of 2014, but it could easily transition to the fall season.

Kate Middleton watches rugby in New Zealand in 2014. Anthony Devlin/Pool/Getty Images

Chunky sweaters and cable knits are expected to be one of this year's biggest fall fashion trends.

The Duchess of Cambridge wore this comfortable-looking yet stylish maroon sweater dress to an appearance in November 2017.

Kate Middleton in November 2017. John Phillips/WPA Pool/Getty Images

The royal paired the fall-ready look with tights and a simple watch.

Though we're used to seeing Kate Middleton dressed up, this casual fall look in 2018 proved she can dress down and look just as stylish.

Kate Middleton in October 2018. Chris Jackson/Getty Images

Known for wearing affordable fashion brands, Kate paired a pair of brown cargo-style pants from Zara with a light green jacket and her favorite pair of Penelope Chilvers boots.

She wore a plaid midi dress to an event at the Victoria & Albert Museum a week later.

Kate Middleton in October 2018. Samir Hussein/WireImage/Getty Images

She paired it with a maroon belt and matching heels for a stylish autumnal look.

Known to rock a blazer every now and again, Kate wore this classic grey number with a pair of simple black pants and a turtleneck sweater in 2018.

Kate Middleton in October 2018. Tim P. Whitby/Getty Images

Blazers are a common trend during the fall, but this year they're expected to become even more popular, despite many people likely still working from home.

The princess recycled the same blazer for an event in November 2019.

Kate Middleton in November 2019. Samir Hussein/WireImage/Getty Images

She styled the blazer with a simple white sweater and maroon slacks.

Nothing screams "fall" more than this matching maroon blazer-and-skirt ensemble.

Kate Middleton in November 2018. Arthur Edwards/WPA Pool/Getty Images

She also wore a pair of simple black suede pumps, tights, and a turtleneck.

Kate may have worn this festive look to a Christmas party, but it can surely inspire your fall wardrobe as well.

Kate Middleton in December 2018. Samir Hussein/WireImage/Getty Images

To make the look more autumn-appropriate, you could opt for a plaid skirt in fall colors like mustard yellow, army green, or maroon rather than bright red.

She wore another army-green jacket in 2019, this time paired with a chunky maroon turtleneck sweater and a necktie.

Kate Middleton in 2019. Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

Bandanas and neckties are already emerging as fall fashion trends this year, either worn around your neck or as a hair accessory.

This fall look from 2019 is one of the duchess' most iconic fashion moments.

Kate Middleton in October 2019. Karwai Tang/WireImage/Getty Images

The royal paired the pair of green culottes by high-street fashion brand Jigsaw with a burgundy knit sweater by Warehouse and a matching Chanel handbag.

This classic jewel-toned blue dress made a statement in November 2019.

Kate Middleton in November 2019. Neil Mockford/GC Images/Getty Images

The Princess of Wales proved that you don't need tights or over-the-top accessories to nail a fall look.

In one of her last public engagements before the pandemic, Kate opted for a casual, chic outfit that embodied the fall season.

Kate Middleton in March 2020. Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

With her worn-in brown leather boots, jeans, and army-green military jacket, this fall look will continue to inspire our wardrobes.

While meeting with researchers at University College London in October 2021, Kate wore a fall-appropriate plaid dress with matching heels.

Kate Middleton arrives at University College London on October 05, 2021 in London, England. Neil Mockford/GC Images/Getty Images

The Zara dress was accessorized with a bow tie at the neck.

The princess wore a bright-red turtleneck and pleated skirt to a BAFTA event in October 2021.

Kate Middleton arrives to launch the "Taking Action on Addiction" campaign at BAFTA on October 19, 2021. Paul Grover-WPA Pool/Getty Images

The royal's cozy sweater perfectly matched her pleated midi skirt by Christopher Kane. The royal topped off the look with a pair of tan pointed-toe pumps and a mini leather handbag by Demellier London.

To drop off Prince George, Prince Louis, and Princess Charlotte on their first day of school, Kate wore a chic brown polka-dot dress.

Prince George, Kate Middleton, and Prince Louis. Jonathan Brady/Pool/Getty Images

The autumnal color tied in perfectly with her matching brown suede pumps.

In October 2022, Kate wore a mustard-yellow pleated dress designed by Karen Millen.

Kate Middleton visits the Royal Surrey County Hospital's Maternity Unit at Royal Surrey County Hospital on October 5, 2022. Samir Hussein/WireImage/Getty Images

Mustard is consistently one of the most popular fall-fashion colors.

Kate attended a December 2022 event in Boston wearing a chic maroon suit with a pink blouse.

Kate Middleton attending an event on December 1, 2022 in Boston, Massachusetts. Chris Jackson/Getty Images

The autumnal-colored suit by Roland Mouret matched the royal's suede heels.

While visiting Harvard University the next day, the princess opted for a collared gingham dress that embodied "dark academia" fall fashion.

Kate Middleton visits Harvard University on December 2, 2022 in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Paul Edwards-Pool/Getty Images

The black-and-white, calf-length Emilia Wickstead dress featured a sharp collar and a thin belt at the waist.

Read the original article on Insider
Come celebrate Hispanic Heritage on Sat., Sept. 16 at the 2nd annual Taste of Latino; Hispanic Heritage Festival in Jacksonville.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

The community is invited to attend the free festival at the Brooks YMCA beginning at 12 p.m. until 6 p.m.

The event will include great music, vendors, and of course plenty of food. Contestants will be entering empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, tapas, paella and more to be judged for the TOP Latino dishes.

Read: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the First Coast Hispanic Chamber

Those attending are encouraged to bring beach chairs for a comfortable viewing experience of live music and dance performances featuring Vaya DJ, Johnnie Rivera and the emcee dance pro Chris Maloof.

There will also be an awards ceremony featuring the 2023 TOP Latino Lideres (Latino Leaders) from all over Jacksonville, St. Augustine and the surrounding area.

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.
Six years ago, Juan Esteves found something he never expected during a security screening at Orlando International Airport.

Wrapped and tucked inside a pair of shoes were three pieces of stone art. One of the carved clay rocks was a bowl. The two others appeared to be animals.

Esteves, a supervisor with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, thought they could be historical artifacts. The traveler told him he discovered them in the backyard of his fathers home in Costa Rica.

I was surprised and excited because I love history, Esteves said. In my culture, we protect our historical artifacts, especially from the Taino in Puerto Rico.

Experts later determined that those artifacts Esteves flagged belonged to the Kingdom of Nicoya, an ancient indigenous nation in modern-day Costa Rica. Now, the artifacts will be returning home, placed under the care of the countrys national museum in San Jose.

On Thursday morning, U.S. and Costa Rican officials celebrated the repatriation of the seized artifacts in a ceremony at the Customs and Border Protection Miami Field Office. While the exact uses of the artifacts are unknown, specialists from the National Museum of Costa Rica determined they were likely used inside the home or for funerals between 300 B.C. and 800 A.D.

Customs and Border Protection repatriates historical artifacts to Costa Rica at a Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023 ceremony in Miami, Florida. One of the items being repatriated is this terra cotta clay animal.

For Costa Ricas Consulate General Ludmilla Ugalde, returning the artifacts is a way for the country to learn more about their ancestors  and reclaim part of its history. While a timeline isnt set for the artifacts return, she hopes that its soon.

With each piece, its a way of understanding a lot more about our culture, Ugalde said. We want the future generations to have the chance to know where they came from and to know what a great culture we had in pre-Columbian times.

The return of the artifacts marks an important moment for Costa Ricas cultural heritage, said John Rico, assistant director of field operations at CBPs Miami-Tampa Field Office.

The global black market in antiquities is estimated to be a multi-billion dollar illicit industry, Rico said. While monetary value may be placed on these items, the repatriation of cultural property is truly priceless.

Authorities did not release what the items are worth.

Esteves said hes glad the artifacts he uncovered will be back where they belong.

For us, they might have an appraised value, but theyre invaluable for the people of Costa Rica, he said. Id rather have them in a museum that can study them ... than [for them] to be in somebodys living room.
In mid August, two pedestrians were killed in Lexington just hours apart.

Ansean Jackson, 52, was killed at the intersection of North Broadway and Loudon Avenue around 11:20 p.m. on Aug. 12. A few hours later, Joshua Johnson, 27, was hit and killed near New Circle Road and Alumni Drive.

The deaths were two of 13 pedestrian fatalities that have occurred in Lexington crashes this year, according to Lexington police data.

Fatal accidents involving bicyclists, pedestrians and motor vehicles are common, data shows.

Lexington police do not keep crash data readily available online, but KSP data shows 35 fatal crashes happened in Fayette County in 2022, leaving 38 people dead. So far this year, there have been 33 fatalities involving motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.

In 2021, the last year full numbers are available from the Lexington Police Department, data shows 14,448 collisions on Lexington streets involving cars, bikes and pedestrians. Forty-one people died. That was more than the 37 people killed in homicides in 2021.

Lexington officials want to make Lexington streets safer. The city is in the midst of developing a new model for street design that includes safety and accessibility of pedestrians, bicyclists, automobile drivers and public transportation called complete streets.

The complete streets plan will guide Lexington street design for the next five years. The city wants to hear from residents as it puts together this plan.

To complete an effective action plan we first need to hear from the public, said Mayor Linda Gorton.

Online surveys can be found at lexingtonky.gov/complete-streets. Paper copies will be available at all Lexington Public Library locations. The survey will remain open until Sept. 24.

The survey focuses on seven areas: planning and design, accessibility, safety, project coordination, project selection, operations and maintenance, and community engagement.

After World War II and the rise of the automobile, most city streets were designed to move cars and trucks through quickly. Thats why the city has spent millions of dollars in recent years adding sidewalks to Versailles and Tates Creek and other major Lexington roads, which were built without sidewalks. But as habits have changed and more people walk and bike, planning for streets, and the safety of all of its users, has now changed.

U.S. Department of Transportation studies have shown that when streets are designed for all modes of transportation, deaths on roads decline.

Many cities and state transportation agencies are now using complete street designs. Other cities are also adopting zero fatality goals for its roadways.
Four Dallas police officers working a shooting call were injured when a vehicle they were using for cover was struck by a pickup, officials said.

Police were dispatched to the 3100 block of Community Drive around 3:15 a.m. regarding a shooting. The officers used a police SUV to shield themselves while they tried to get the suspect to exit the house, Star-Telegram media partner WFAA-TV reported.

A driver crashed into the SUV with one officer inside, and the SUV struck three officers, police said. The four officers were taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. One of them may have a broken bone, according to WFAA, and the other three sustained minor injuries.

Police detained the pickups driver at the scene, and a test for intoxication came back negative, WFAA reported.

Officials said that the driver wasnt involved in the shooting call that had brought officers to the location. One person was injured in the shooting and taken to a local hospital and one suspect was arrested.

This embedded content is not available in your region.
An armored truck with money crashed on Sunset Road in north Charlotte Thursday morning today leaving people in a frenzy, grabbing bills on the street.

While its unusual to see money blowing in the wind, its not the first time that has happened . Here are some of the other occurrences throughout the U.S. where people tried to take advantage of accidents with trucks hauling cash.

Easton County, Michigan

In July, bags of money were on the side of Interstate 96 in Windsor Township, Michigan. MLive and other outlets reported that the driver of the Loomis truck failed to stop in time for a traffic backup. It hit a vehicle, lost control and overturned in a ditch. The bags had mostly pennies and other small change.

East Rutherford, New Jersey

In 2018, a Brinks truck filled with cash broke open on a highway in New Jersey. The New York Times reported that drivers took cash and left the scene in East Rutherford. But many people returned the money. Brinks was able to recover $6,000 as a result. One witness looked out at the chaotic scene with a number of people taking the money and running away. The driver of the Brinks truck looked like he was laughing and crying at the same time, the witness told the paper. He wasnt mad and yelling at people. He just looked like he thought it was so absurd.

Atlanta

Money flew from an armored truck on Interstate 285 near Atlanta in 2019. 6abc in Philadelphia received a video of people running to get money. It was unclear how much money was scattered, but a local radio station said at least a dozen drivers pulled over for the cash grab, AP reported at the time. The incident happened when the doors accidentally flew open. Dunwoody Police reported that $175,000 was on the highway. When you live in Atlanta, this the kind of stuff that happens, wrote a person who posted a picture of the scene online.

Dozens of people collected money from an Atlanta area interstate in 2019 after an armored trucks doors accidentally flew open, spilling the cash.

Raleigh

In 2017, a Loomis truck lost a brick of $20 bills on Interstate 40 near the U.S. 1 interchange in Raleigh, the News & Observer reported. The trucks back door inadvertently opened as an employee inside the truck was trying to better secure it, police told the paper. During the incident, drivers pulled over to get money, but they and most of the money was gone by the time police arrived.

Drivers paused along the shoulders of Interstate 40 near the U.S. 1 interchange in Raleigh in 2017 after seeing cash flying from an armored car on the highway.

Indianapolis

In May 2018, a Brinks armored trucks back door swung open during rush hour on Interstate 70, the New York Times reported, as bags of cash containing about $600,000 poured onto the highway. A school bus driver pulled over and was one of the people who grabbed some cash before taking off, the paper reported. Four men in a white pickup scooped up an entire bag then sped away. Another driver tweeted about the scene, saying, Never thought Id I see a BRINKS truck accident. 100 dollar bills flying everywhere.

Never thought Id I see a BRINKS truck accident. 100 dollar bills flying everywhere Im glad no one was hurt pic.twitter.com/pkFu741jWa  Jon Halapio (@JonHalapio) December 13, 2018

Carlsbad, California

On Interstate 5 in Carlsbad, California, bags of money burst open after falling out of an armored Sectran Security truck in 2021. KPBS reported that commuters in San Diego County collected the scattered money, with the California Highway Patrol warning people that taking the cash is a crime. The vehicle was going to the Federal Reserve in San Diego with FDIC money. Less than $1 million fell from the truck, KPBS reported. A witness whose video was posted online by KUSI News showed people leaving their cars and hurriedly grabbing the spilled bills. This is the most insane thing Ive ever seen, the woman who shot the video said.

Baltimore

In July 2015, authorities closed the Baltimores Harbor Tunnel for nearly seven hours in both directions after cash spilled out of a Brinks armored truck and onto the roadway inside the tunnel, according to McClatchy news reports at the time. A preliminary investigation found that the trucks back door security malfunctioned. Police refused to say how much money was lost or recovered.

Providence, Rhode Island

In June 2016, a Brinks armored truck was pulling into the main entrance of a hospital when a back door flew open and three large money bags of cash fell into the street, the Providence Journal reported. Just then, a car ran over two of the bags, bursting them open and sending cash flying out into the wind, the paper reported. Brinks workers tried to grab the cash, but at least $20,500 was still missing at the time, authorities said.
Some of the best films at this year's event grapple with complex stories of human fallibility, defy categorization and linger in your mind long after watching them.

Some of the best films at this year's event grapple with complex stories of human fallibility, defy categorization and linger in your mind long after watching them.

Ask some people on the ground at this years Toronto International Film Festival, and they might say a version of the same thing: A substantial number of the movies premiering at the Sept. 7-17 event, including North Star and Seagrass, have felt incomplete. And others, like American Fiction, have delivered great performances in not-so-great films.

But some of the movies that have been tremendous this year have been less seen and certainly underdiscussed. Yet, they are no less significant. They grapple with complex stories of human fallibility, sometimes defy categorization and linger in your mind long after watching them.

A terrific Leonie Benesch stars in writer-director Ilker Cataks increasingly tense story about a teacher whose morals are tested when one of her students is accused of theft.

A terrific Leonie Benesch stars in writer-director Ilker Cataks increasingly tense story about a teacher whose morals are tested when one of her students is accused of theft.

The Teachers Lounge

Who knew that a teachers lounge at an elementary school could be so tense and drama-filled? The Teachers Lounge, an increasingly claustrophobic story from German filmmaker Ilker Catak, is about a white teacher (a terrific Leonie Benesch) whose morals are tested when a Muslim student is accused of theft. Its a wonderfully knotty character study that deals with race and class, showing a woman who goes to great, very questionable lengths to prove both the childs innocence and her allyship. The film is a taut, fascinating drama about the hills we choose to die on.

Justine Triets suspenseful

Justine Triet s suspenseful "Anatomy of a Fall" is a fascinating crime drama that explores the inner workings of two imperfect people and one complicated marriage.

Anatomy of a Fall

Not a whole lot of films these days earn their extra-long running times. But French writer-director Justine Triets suspenseful drama is so nuanced and thrilling to watch that its two and a half hours breeze by.

It shatters the typical whodunit, in this case involving the mysterious death of a man named Samuel (Samuel Maleski), by cracking open the element of what most influenced him: his home. Theres his loving yet far more successful wife Sandra (a fantastic Sandra Huller), their self-determined son Daniel (Milo Machado Graner) and Sams personal demons. Through vivid flashbacks and meticulous courtroom interrogation, Triet masterfully turns our attention from potential crime-solving to the inner workings of two imperfect people and one complicated marriage. Its absolutely riveting.

Anatomy of a Fall is set to be released in U.S. theaters on Oct. 13.

"Fitting In," starring Maddie Ziegler, positions writer-director Molly McGlynn as a promising, fresh voice for todays generation.

Fitting In

Though Molly McGlynn has spent years directing episodes of popular TV series like Grace and Frankie, Grown-ish and the Wonder Years reboot, its the new feature Fitting In that positions her as a promising, fresh voice for todays generation.

Following an unusual diagnosis that could impact her reproductive health, horny high schooler Lindy (Maddie Ziegler) tries to resume life as usual  until she realizes that not confronting the situation has strained her relationships with the people around her. These include her mother Rita (Schitts Creek star Emily Hampshire), who struggles to navigate her own new realities at the same time. Reflecting an honest, complicated journey of gender and sexual identity, Fitting In is an at-times hilarious and consistently engrossing look at a flawed but earnest teenage girl in the process of redefining her new normal.

Director Jason Yu's

Director Jason Yu's "Sleep" is ripe for the big screen and an effectively terrified audience. It guides you deeper into an evil resting just below its surface and never lets you go.

Sleep

Its hard to tell where Korean writer-director Jason Yus movie is going to go within its first 30 minutes or so. But Sleep is so haunting and strange from the jump that youre just along for the ride. Set in one of the most underrated horror locations  a confined apartment  a sense of dread arises between Hyun-su (Lee Sun-kyun) and his pregnant wife Soo-jin (Jung Yu-mi), whose relationship is put to the test when Hyun-su begins sleepwalking. Not only that, but he also has unusual cravings for raw meat, a compulsion to claw at his skin and other troubling behavior.

A movie ripe for the big screen and an effectively terrified audience, Sleep guides you deeper into an evil resting just below its surface and never lets you go. Though it doesnt stray far outside the typical ghost movie, it is proof that you dont always have to reinvent the wheel if you have a solid story and excellent use of effects.

With

With "We Grown Now," filmmaker Minhal Baig offers a love letter to the hope and wonder found among the young lives at Chicago's Cabrini-Green housing project in the '90s.

We Grown Now

Its not always easy to get honest, terrific performances from child actors. With a major assist from casting director Aisha Coley, who previously found the great Zelda Harris for 1994s Crooklyn, writer-director Minhal Baig compassionately captures the innocence and curiosity of two 10-year-old Black boys living in Chicagos Cabrini-Green housing project in the 90s. Through their perspectives, beautifully illuminated in Blake Cameron James and Gian Knight Ramirezs portrayals, we see a neighborhood with both promise and despair become a playground for their imaginations. We Grown Now is a satisfying experience of home through a childs eyes.

Writer-director Tae-hwa Eom's Concrete Utopia is an emotionally and physically vicious look at social degradation following a major earthquake in Seoul, South Korea.

Writer-director Tae-hwa Eom's Concrete Utopia is an emotionally and physically vicious look at social degradation following a major earthquake in Seoul, South Korea.

Concrete Utopia

Just a few short years ago, filmmaker Bong Joon-ho delivered a seminal depiction of class warfare in South Korea with Parasite. And now, writer-director Tae-hwa Eom picks up that baton with Concrete Utopia, an emotionally and physically vicious look at social degradation following a major earthquake in Seoul. Eom brings the audience into both the individual and collective stories of people attempting to rebuild the same flawed community, distinguished by the haves and the have-nots, while using genre elements to heighten their fates. In a less skilled filmmakers hands, that could have been clumsy. But instead, Concrete Utopia remains disturbingly and crushingly human.

Canadian filmmaker Sophie Dupuis tells the story of Simon (Theodore Pellerin), a rising drag star whose formerly fulfilling life flies into disarray when he begins a toxic and abusive romantic relationship.

Canadian filmmaker Sophie Dupuis tells the story of Simon (Theodore Pellerin), a rising drag star whose formerly fulfilling life flies into disarray when he begins a toxic and abusive romantic relationship.

Solo

The growing popularity of marginalized narratives often comes with the risk that many will be about the same thing, due to Hollywood gatekeeping. But with Solo, Canadian writer-director Sophie Dupuis tells the specific story of Simon (Theodore Pellerin), a rising drag star whose previously fulfilling life flies into disarray when he begins a relationship with the toxic and abusive Olivier (Felix Maritaud).

Dupuis could have easily slipped into the pitfalls of focusing only on their harmful romance. But instead she tells a more complex story, propelled by Pellerins tender performance, about a man struggling to balance his affirming existence on the stage and among his loving family with an increasingly desperate and manipulative partner.

Showing equal care for both the dazzling drag performances and the more delicate moments in the film, Dupuis delivers a beautiful reflection of the human spirit.

In Azazel Jacobs'

In Azazel Jacobs' "His Three Daughters," Carrie Coon, Elizabeth Olsen and Natasha Lyonne astound as siblings who are stubbornly at odds with each other and whose only common ground is their father's impending death.

His Three Daughters

You are kind of prepared for sadness when going into a film about a trio of sisters who reconvene as their father is dying. But what you might not expect is how much it will affect you as an audience member.

Writer-director Azazel Jacobs His Three Daughters is less about grief than it is about the memories we reshape, for better and worse, in our minds  as well as how to carve a new path forward. Carrie Coon, Elizabeth Olsen and Natasha Lyonne astound as siblings who are stubbornly at odds with each other and whose only common ground is the impending death before them. Throughout Jacobs touching, single-setting drama inside a New York City apartment, we see their relationship become more and more deconstructed. That ultimately leads to the films final 15 minutes, which are nothing short of a gut punch. Its a truly special movie.

With

With "Dream Scenario," writer-director Kristoffer Borgli returns with another indictment of our depraved social landscape.

Dream Scenario

Nicolas Cage is seen as a bit of a joke nowadays, despite his long history of talented performances. But Dream Scenario is a reminder that some actors need only to align themselves with great filmmakers to bring out their best.

Writer-director Kristoffer Borgli, right off the heels of Sick of Myself, returns with another indictment of our depraved social landscape. Once again using horror elements to amplify the ludicrousness of it all, Borgli lures in audiences with the story of an otherwise forgettable professor (Cage) whose image begins creeping into countless peoples dreams  and then their nightmares. From this, they begin to project negative feelings about him that lead to his ostracization.

A darkly funny, and often truthful, look at the rapid hysteria of our real-world cancel culture, Borglis latest helps cement him as a provocative and wildly entertaining voice for our times.

Dream Scenario is set to be released in U.S. theaters on Oct. 13.
Millions of Americans are currently living on a fixed income, and their biggest safety net to pay basic living expenses is Social Security.

A Channel 9 investigation found that families across the country are getting bills from the federal government.

According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), more than $20 billion was given out to Americans who should not have received that money; now the agency wants it back.

ALSO READ: ALSO READ: Cleveland County deputy couldnt enter Social Security office with firearm, sheriff says

In most cases, the recipient had no idea that their payments were wrong, and in some cases, it was the governments mistake. Now, the SSA is asking them to pay back thousands, sometimes even tens of thousands, in an attempt to fix the error.

Matt and Kristin Cooper have spent the last five years working hard to fix their financial situation for themselves and their two young children.

Its opening up wounds that we had already healed, Kristen Cooper told our sister station WSB-TV. And then here we are now having to fight them again.

Its hard to actually heal and get better when you have to keep revisiting this. The worst day of your life, Matt Cooper said.

Matt Cooper is a former Covington, Georgia police officer. About five years ago, he was shot between the eyes while on duty responding to a shoplifting call. Following his injury, Social Security payments for Matt and his kids, coupled with workers compensation, are now major factors in the familys monthly budget.

Every decision that we made for our family was based on the benefits that we were supposed to receive, Kristen Cooper said.

ALSO READ: ALSO READ: The expected 2024 Social Security cost of living adjustment (COLA) just got bigger

Recently, the couple was sent a surprise letter from the SSA demanding the Cooper family pay back $30,000. According to Kristen, an employee at her local SSA office told her the agency failed to correctly factor in Matts workers compensation in its calculation.

In addition to the repayment, monthly payouts to the couples children have been cut, dropping from $900 to $150.

We had submitted all the appropriate documentation with Matt and the children, and she was in agreement that, yes, we had done everything correctly, Kristen said. But sometimes their system just doesnt pick up on it until later.

Rebecca Vallas has been handling overpayment investigations for years as an attorney with Legal Aid. She said that even in cases where the agency is at fault, they still demand that money back.

The reality is you can do everything right and still get hit by a massive overpayment from Social Security, Vallas said. Its happening every single day to people all around us across this country.

For over a year, Channel 9 has been reaching out and asking the SSA how many people have been overpaid. Just this week, the agency said it would not release that information, but we found agency audits that show at least hundreds of thousandsmaybe even millionshave been impacted by this mistake.

Angela Digeronimo, a former Social Security worker and employee union leader, says overpayments have been happening for years and are mainly caused by critically low staffing levels. The lack of personnel also means it can be multiple years before workers can reassess cases, catch overpayments, and send notice; during that time, the amount people owe continues to grow.

Its our responsibility to let them know, Digeronimo said. But its also the publics responsibility to let us know when there are changes and they know what their reporting responsibilities are.

ALSO READ: ALSO READ: Social Security boost: Benefits increasing by 8.7%

Low staffing can also mean that some who try to report a change in their income or disability cant get through to SSA call centers. At the end of the day, Social Security views that money as taxpayer dollars that belong to all of us.

We take an oath to be stewards of the trust fund, Jessica LaPointe, another former Social Security worker and employee union leader, said. So unfortunately, we do have to collect overpayments or attempt to collect overpayments when somebody from the public has been overpaid.

The SSA says families are allowed to appeal their overpayment bills if they believe its an error or they werent at fault. If the amount creates too much hardship, recipients can also ask for a waiver or payment plan.

The Cooper familys appeal was already denied; theyre not hoping for a waiver.

Eight years in the Army, I did two tours in Iraq and Afghanistan to come home to be a police officer, Matt Cooper said. I just feel like Im doing so much for other people that now its time for me to get help. And Im just, its just an uphill battle constantly. Its hard to heal.

ALSO READ: ALSO READ: County accidentally paid out millions in benefits to dependents of retirees

The SSA declined Channel 9s request for an interview, but they did provide this statement:

We continually strive to improve stewardship of our programs and reduce improper payments. While staffing losses and resource constraints have challenged our service delivery, our payment accuracy rates remain very high.

We understand getting notice of an overpayment may be unsettling or unclear and we work with people to navigate the overpayment process. When overpayments occur, we inform people about the fact and amount of the overpayment, their right to appeal, and the options to repay or (in some cases) receive waivers for the overpayment debts. People can appeal an overpayment if they disagree with the overpayment debt decision or the overpayment amount. They also have the right to ask Social Security to waive collection of their debt if they believe the overpayment was not their fault and they cannot afford to pay it back. We do not pursue recoveries while an initial appeal or waiver is pending. We examine each waiver request to determine if the individual caused the debt and their ability to repay the debt. If we cant waive the debt, we have flexible repayment optionsincluding repayment of as low as $10 per month.

Our payment accuracy rates are high, yet even small error rates add up to substantial improper payment amounts, given the magnitude of the benefits we pay each year. For instance, in fiscal year 2021, we issued nearly $1.2 trillion in benefit payments. Our Social Security Retirement, Survivors, and Disability benefit payment accuracy is consistently highless than 0.5 percent of Social Security payments are overpayments. For the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, overpayments also represent a small percentage of paymentsabout 7 percentbut are higher than our overall payment accuracy rate partially due to the complexity in administering income and resource limits and asset evaluations.

Nonetheless, Congress recognized that beneficiaries will be overpaid. Therefore, consistent with our stewardship responsibilities, Social Security is required by law to adjust benefits or recover debts when we establish that someone received payments to which they are not entitled and an overpayment occurs. We must maintain our responsibilities to taxpayers to be good stewards of the trust funds. Each persons situation is unique, and we handle overpayments on a case-by-case basis. Overpayments can occur for many reasons, such as when a beneficiary does not timely report work or other changes that can affect their benefits.

Improving our business processes to serve our customers better remains a top priority. We are making better use of data and technology to prevent some overpayments. We continue to invest in improvements to make it easier for people to interact with us so we can prevent overpayments. For instance, we are developing a new electronic payroll data exchange program that will automatically use wage information to adjust payment amounts when appropriate, which will help reduce improper payments and reporting responsibilities for beneficiaries.

We are also working to streamline and simplify our waiver request form to make it easier to understand and less burdensome for people to request a debt waiver. Through proposed rulemaking, we plan to propose to simplify our rules for how a person can demonstrate eligibility for a waiver of recovery of an overpayment debt. We do not report on the number of debtors.

This investigation is a collaboration between Channel 9 and our sister stations, along with KFF Health News.

(WATCH BELOW: Cleveland County deputy couldnt enter Social Security office with firearm, sheriff says)




EL PASO, Texas (Border Report)  Texas Gov. Greg Abbott exulted the states economy and business environment during a stop in El Paso to inaugurate a new multimillion-dollar manufacturing plant.

Texas is the economic engine of America, where entrepreneurs and businesses can come to this state and cast a vision and know they live and operate in a state where they can achieve their vision, Abbott said.

U.S. and Mexican leaders say providing water is border regions most important challenge

He spoke at the ribbon-cutting for Schneider Electrics new 160,000-square-foot building in Northwest El Paso. Three hundred people will make low-voltage boards and other electrical equipment at the facility, which will be Schneiders fourth in the city. The French multinational company now has 1,500 people on its payroll in El Paso.

Businesses like Schneider come to Texas in part because of the strategies that we deploy to make sure we have a low cost of doing business. We cut through all the red tape that slows down a business and we provide the best workforce, Abbott said.

An employee works at the Schneider Electric plant in El Paso. (courtesy Schneider Electric)

The governor said there has never been a better time to be a Texan, with a $2.3 trillion economy and a budget surplus that will make an $18 billion property tax cut possible.

Demonstrators protest Abbotts visit

Abbott did not publicly address a topic that drew about a dozen demonstrators with signs to a sidewalk across the street from the new Schneider plant.

Texas National Guard member suspended after wounding man in cross-border shooting, Mexico says

The state has spent almost $5 billion in the past two years deploying Texas National Guard troops, surging Texas Department of Public Safety troopers and installing barriers along the Rio Grande to stem historic irregular migration flows.

Another $5 billion state appropriation is forthcoming for Operation Lone Star, which El Paso immigration rights advocates say does not work and has led to abuse.

Members of the Border Network for Human Rights hold signs demanding the end of Operation Lone Star outside a manufacturing plant Texas Gov. Greg Abbott was inaugurating in El Paso, Texas, on Thursday. (Border Report photo)

For us, its clear that Gov. Abbotts policies are not welcome in El Paso, said Fernando Garcia, executive director of the Border Network for Human Rights. Operation Lone Star is illegal [] and its causing a lot of harm. We have state troopers on our streets driving like crazy, causing accidents.

We have Texas National Guard soldiers shooting at people. We have buoys at the river, we have barbwire. This is ridiculous, and he is spending our money. Its going to be $10 billion now.

Visit the BorderReport.com homepage for the latest exclusive stories and breaking news about issues along the U.S.-Mexico border

Garcia said he witnessed an accident this week in West El Paso that involved a DPS chase of a vehicle suspected of transporting migrants. Its one of dozens reported in the past year along the Texas-Mexico border.

The shooting last month involved a Texas guard soldier allegedly discharging his rifle near the Rio Grande at a man who required medical attention for a gunshot wound across the border in Juarez, Mexico. The case remains under state police investigation.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
A coalition of abortion rights groups is hoping to solidify access to abortion in Nevada with a constitutional amendment proposed on the 2024 ballot.

The organizations, which include Planned Parenthood, NARAL Pro-Choice Nevada and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Nevada, filed a petition with Nevadas secretary of state office Thursday to get a ballot question about enshrining abortion rights in the state constitution after the Supreme Court struck down Roe v. Wade last year.

The fallout of the Supreme Courts overturning of Roe v. Wade has shown us that we have already suffered one year too long without the guaranteed right to reproductive freedom, and we simply cannot afford to stand by and allow any further encroachment on the fundamental right of Nevadans to determine their own reproductive lives and care, Lindsey Harmon, executive director for Planned Parenthood Votes Nevada, said in a statement.

The coalition would need to collect signatures from 103,000 registered voters to get the proposed amendment on the ballot by June 26. If the proposal is approved by voters next year, it will automatically be placed on the 2026 ballot for final approval before being enacted.

Under current Nevada law, anyone can receive an abortion during the first 24 weeks of pregnancy. A voter referendum in 1990 codified the abortion protections covered by Roe v. Wade, but that right is not codified in the state constitution, the announcement reads.

The new proposal builds on the current abortion protection in Nevada and states that everyone has a fundamental right to reproductive freedom, which entails the right to make and effectuate decisions about all matters relating to pregnancy.

The right of an individual to reproductive freedom shall not be denied, burdened or infringed upon unless justified by a compelling State interest that is achieved by the least restrictive means available, the new proposal reads.

It also will bar anyone who provides abortions and who aids someone in receiving an abortion from being penalized or prosecuted, according to the proposal.

Since the shameful overturning of Roe v. Wade, it has become clear that the work in Nevada is about holding the line to protect our access to abortion care and about making sure that everyone can get the care that they need, West Juhl, director of communications and campaigns for the ACLU of Nevada, said in a statement.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Reproductive rights advocates are trying to put the question of abortion access on the 2024 ballot in the battleground state of Nevada.

On Thursday, a coalition including Planned Parenthood, NARAL Pro-Choice Nevada and the American Civil Liberties Union of Nevada filed a petition with the secretary of states office to secure a ballot question about enshrining abortion protections in the state constitution.

A copy of the proposed amendment was first shared with NBC News.

The groups need to collect 103,000 signatures from registered voters by June 26 to get their proposal on the November 2024 ballot. If it passes with a simple majority, it will appear again on the 2026 ballot, because a second passage is required to change the constitution.

Having an abortion question on the ballot in Nevada could help boost Democratic turnout in the presidential election by tapping into the fervor around the issue, which played a key role in the 2022 midterms nationally and in Nevada, where a Democrat won a U.S. Senate race last year by fewer than 8,000 votes.

The fallout of the Supreme Courts overturning of Roe v. Wade has shown us that we have already suffered one year too long without the guaranteed right to reproductive freedom, and we simply cannot afford to stand by and allow any further encroachment on the fundamental right of Nevadans to determine their own reproductive lives and care, Lindsey Harmon, the executive director of Planned Parenthood Votes Nevada, said in a statement.

Nevada law ensures abortion protections for up to 24 weeks of pregnancy. The proposed constitutional language would provide similar protections by banning abortion restrictions before fetal viability, ultimately to be determined by physicians. A constitutional amendment would make it harder to undo the protections.

The proposed language says the state may not penalize, prosecute, or take adverse action against any individual based on the outcome of a pregnancy of the individual, or against any licensed health care provider who acts consistent with the applicable scope and practice of providing reproductive health care services to an individual who has granted their voluntary consent.

Neither may the State penalize, prosecute, or take adverse action against any individual or entity for aiding or assisting another individual in the exercise of the rights established by this initiative, it adds.

A similar initiative is in the works in Florida, where Gov. Ron DeSantis, a 2024 presidential candidate, signed a six-week abortion ban into law this year.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
The ACLU of North Carolina has condemned a proposed juvenile curfew set to be discussed by the Fayetteville City Council on Monday, according to a letter sent to the council Thursday by Liz Barber, the chapters director of policy and advocacy.

We recognize that the City of Fayetteville is considering various strategies for bolstering public safety, and we commend the Council for its recognition of the many challenges facing young North Carolinians, Barber wrote. However, research and the experience of numerous other municipalities demonstrate that the proposed juvenile curfew ordinance will not meaningfully advance the Councils goal of fostering a safe, welcoming environment for children and families in the City of Fayetteville.

Instead, Barber warned, the curfew would likely lead to police harassment of people of color in Fayetteville and could possibly violate both North Carolinas constitution and the American constitution.

The proposed ordinance will undermine the rights of both juveniles and their parents or guardians, Barber said in the letter.

Shaun McMillan speaks out against a proposed juvenile curfew during a press conference hosted by Fayetteville Freedom for All and Cape Fear Indivisible on Monday in front of Fayetteville City Hall. The ACLU of North Carolina condemned the proposed curfew in a letter sent to City Council on Thursday.

Police Chief Kemberle Braden officially proposed the curfew at the councils Sept. 5 work session after a spate of violence involving juveniles in recent months. Braden told council members last month that at least 460 juveniles were involved in crimes from January to June, including two juveniles charged with murder and eight charged with attempted murder.

According to the proposed ordinance text, minors under 16 would have a curfew of 11 p.m. to 6 a.m., while 16-year-olds and 17-year-olds would have a curfew of midnight to 5 a.m. Monday-Friday and 1 to 5 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Parents or guardians could be charged with a misdemeanor if their children violate the curfew, while the minors could face a juvenile delinquency hearing in court.

After dozens of Fayetteville residents signed up to speak at Mondays council meeting where the potential curfew was set to be discussed, the council instead voted to hold a special meeting on the topic and set a public hearing for a later date. The special meeting in council chambers is at 7 p.m. Monday.

In her letter, Barber encouraged the City Council to vote against the curfew, listing three main points in her argument as to why it would do more harm than good. Heres what she said.

First point: Juvenile curfews aren't effective

Barbers letter states that, according to research, juvenile curfews arent effective at reducing crime.

As one leading researcher recently declared just earlier this year, based on these consistent findings over multiple decades, the academic community has reached consensus that curfews arent effective at reducing crime, Barber wrote.

Barber noted that Washington, D.C.s 1995 juvenile curfew was found to have increased the number of shootings during those hours, while a similar curfew in Baltimore led to an increased number of juvenile arrests but had not resulted in conclusive evidence of gun violence mitigation or safety improvements.

(Juvenile) curfews are often implemented without meaningfully engaging the people grappling with the most acute public safety challenges, alienating community leaders and advocates who could otherwise be constructive partners in implementing public safety strategies, Barber said. As a result, juvenile curfew laws can, counterproductively, damage already-strained relationships between police and youth of color and in some instances have blowback effects increasing juvenile victimization or overall crime.

Second point: Curfew would burden families

Barber warned that enforcement of the curfew could take important resources away from other safety initiatives while also causing harm to the residents it intends to protect.

The inevitable result will be more unnecessary interactions between juveniles and law enforcement officers, with distressing consequences for Fayettevilles youth, she wrote. The negative consequences of interacting with police are most obvious for children who experience violence, abusive conduct, unlawful detention, or highly intrusive searches at the hands of law enforcement officers.

Barber said that research indicates negative interactions with police can lead to children experiencing health issues in later life and increase their risk of arrest and incarceration, potentially resulting in post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and issues in school.

Interacting with police officers can be traumatizing for children even when officers act lawfully, she said. At-risk youth who are stopped frequently by police report experiencing heightened emotional distress and posttraumatic stress symptoms such as uncontrollable thoughts and disrupted sleep.

What residents said Monday: Here's what's next for a proposed youth curfew in Fayetteville

Those risks are especially high for Black and brown children, Barber noted, pointing to studies that show negative impacts on Black and Latino boys psychological health when faced with increased policing and greater likelihoods of arrest for Black children who have police interactions before the eighth grade.

The curfew could also unfairly burden children from lower-income families, Barber said.

Disparities also result from differences in socioeconomic status: children who lack access to private outdoor spaces or their own vehicles likely have a greater need to venture into public spaces to play, work, and visit with family and friends than their wealthier peers, she wrote.

Third point: Curfew could be unconstitutional

In the letter, Barber raised potential legal issues with the curfew, including the possibility of the ordinance infringing on childrens constitutional rights to free speech and intrastate travel  meaning it could potentially subject the city to legal battles.

Furthermore, Barber said, the ordinance is too vague in defining what conduct is allowed.

Under the draft ordinance, it is unlawful for a minor to be or remain upon any establishment or public place during certain hours, subject to some enumerated exceptions. The ordinance defines the term remain, in part, as to linger or stay in a public place, she wrote. It is unclear whether this provision would apply to juveniles who are traveling through a public place for a permissible purpose but who, for an entirely legitimate reason, need to linger or stay in a prohibited area.

A nearly-identical clause in a Washington state curfew led to the curfew being struck down by the Washington Supreme Court, Barber said.

What the ordinance says: Will Fayetteville enact a curfew on minors? Here's what the Council says

Barber also noted several other potential legally problematic parts of the ordinance.

For example, the provision delegating authority to the Chief of Police to decide, in his or her own opinion, whether to issue a special permit to allow juveniles to violate the curfew ordinance may impermissibly delegate exclusive authority to a single official to determine when and how juveniles in Fayetteville can exercise their constitutional rights, she said.

The provision prohibiting any juvenile who has failed to attend school for any reason during regular school hours from being in public spaces between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on any school day may be overbroad to the extent it applies to juveniles who fail to attend school for an excused reason  for example, to a seventeen-year-old who misses school due to an illness but needs to drive herself to doctors office to receive medical treatment.

The curfew could violate parents rights to parent as they wish, too, Barber said.

ACLU urges other solutions

In the conclusion of her letter, Barber pleaded with the City Council to reject the curfew and instead seek community-based interventions like childcare assistance, recreational programs and educational opportunities for residents.

Implementing a juvenile curfew, however well-intentioned, is likely to undermine public safety, erode trust in law enforcement, and perpetuate, and potentially exacerbate, existing racial disparities in North Carolinas criminal legal system, to the detriment of all Fayetteville residents, Barber wrote.

Government watchdog reporter Lexi Solomon can be reached at ABSolomon@gannett.com.

Special Subscription Offers

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Fayetteville City Council urged by ACLU to reject juvenile curfew
The Metropolitan Police has paid damages to two women arrested at a vigil for Sarah Everard in March 2021, after a series of legal battles.

Patsy Stevenson and Dania al-Obeid, who launched legal claims against the Met under the Human Rights Act last October, said they had received settlements and letters of apology from Commander Karen Findlay of the Met.

In a statement released just after midnight, Scotland Yard confirmed an agreement had been reached as it sought to avoid a protracted legal dispute.

Social Justice organisation Reclaim These Streets organised the vigil after Ms Everard, 33, was kidnapped, raped and murdered by off-duty Met police constable Wayne Couzens.

Pictures of Ms Stevenson being pinned down by police were widely shared, sparking debate over heavy-handedness in the police.

Sarah Everard was murdered by a police officer - Everard family

Speaking to the Guardian, Stevenson said the result was a big win.

Every step has been a huge hurdle, so I appreciate what theyve said but [...] even if you go through a [legal battle] they still wont hold themselves accountable for what theyve done. But this is a very big win for us, and for everyone who attended the vigil, she said.

Ms al-Obeid was also handcuffed and arrested at the vigil.

The police are not the right organisation to be on the frontline for victims of violence, they just end up re-traumatising them, she told the paper.

She added: I will continue speaking out about the abuse that goes on in police forces and their lack of support for victims of abuse.

Police were criticised for their handling of the vigil and protests - Reuters

According to the Guardian, Commander Findlay told the women that their fundamental right to protest remained, but noted that the pandemic presented an extremely difficult challenge for policing and the officers present.

She added: That aside, I appreciate the anger, frustration and alarm your arrest undoubtedly caused you, exacerbated by the subsequent proceedings.

High Court judges ruled in March 2022 that the Met breached the rights of organisers with its handling of the vigil.

Lord Justice Warby and Mr Justice Holgate, ruled that the decisions made by the police service were unlawful, and concluded that the force failed to carry out a case-specific proportionality assessment.

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: The actions of individual officers were found by His Majestys Inspectorate of Constabularies to have been appropriate. They acted in good faith, interpreting complex and changing legislation in very challenging circumstances in a way that was entirely consistent with their colleagues working across London at the time.

A protracted legal dispute is not in the interests of any party, least of all the complainants who we recognise have already experienced significant distress as a result of this incident.

The most appropriate decision, to minimise the ongoing impact on all involved, was to reach an agreed settlement.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
New York Fashion Week is often thought to be a glitzy, exclusive, and celebrity-packed event.

So I asked models, influencers, and other attendees to explain what it's really like to be there.

They said most don't realize that NYFW is extremely hectic, a lot of work, and not super glamorous.

New York Fashion Week is a glitzy, exclusive, and celebrity-packed event  or so you might think.

A model walks the runway at PatBo's New York Fashion Week show on September 9, 2023. Amanda Krause/Insider

If you look at photos and videos of the event on social media, you'll see sparkling runways, models with stunning makeup, and celebrities wearing standout outfits in the audiences of shows.

But as is often the case, the reality of the event isn't always as sparkly.

During the fashion festivities this season, I asked models, influencers, and other attendees for their thoughts on what New York Fashion Week is really like.

While they all agreed that attending the fashion event is a lot of fun, they also said there's a lot that goes on behind the scenes that people might be surprised to learn.

Actor and style blogger Temi Otedola said that out of every fashion week around the world, New York is "the most fun."

Inside a GQ party hosted during New York Fashion Week on September 12, 2023. Slaven Vlasic/Stringer/Getty Images

"The events, the after-parties  if you compare them to Milan and Paris, New York is the best," she said.

Some of the top parties this season were hosted by GQ, Rebecca Minkoff, and Pandora.

TV personality Blake Newby noted that fashion shows are a lot shorter than you might think.

A model walks the Frederick Anderson runway during New York Fashion Week on September 13, 2023. Noam Galai/Stringer/Getty Images

"People think you come in and sit for hours, but no," Newby said. "You gather  it might take an hour for everyone to roll in  and then you sit for six minutes, maybe not even that long."

Two people said fellow attendees were nicer than they imagined.

Hana Martin and Dawn attend New York Fashion Week on September 9, 2023.. Amanda Krause/Insider

"This is my first time attending NYFW, and the thing I was surprised about is actually how friendly everyone is," fashion and beauty creator Hana Martin said. "It's a really nice vibe here, everyone talks to everyone, and I'm enjoying it so far."

Dawn, a Brooklyn-based drag queen, agreed and pointed out that audiences aren't only made up of celebrities. They're mostly filled with regular people and fashion creatives.

"The people involved are actually a lot cooler and nicer than you'd think," she said. "It's not as pretentious as it's made out to be."

Influencer Amy Lefevre shared a few things that she thinks people don't know about New York Fashion Week.

Spectators at the Indonesia Now show during New York Fashion Show on September 13, 2023. Arturo Holmes/Getty Images

First, Lefevre said that fashion shows are "so fast." And second, she noted that people don't linger around them for very long.

"You're in and out," she said. "As soon as the show is done, you're out to the next."

She also pointed out that runways can be extremely crowded before shows start, something she says you quickly get used to.

"I feel like a lot of people get nervous or anxious their first time because there's so many people and it's chaos," she said. "But you'd be surprised that after the first day, you're fine."

Stylists and models agreed that the event is more hectic and less glamorous than people realize.

Odera Nkem-Mmekam attends the Cucculelli Shaheen show during New York Fashion Week on September 9, 2023. Amanda Krause/Insider

"It's essentially an industry trade show," stylist Odera Nkem-Mmekam told Insider. "It's really not that glamorous. People get very very stressed out and run around like crazy people for a week."

Flaviana Matata, a model from Nigeria, agreed. She described New York Fashion Week as "extremely hectic" and said models often have to change their outfits in the car between events.

"It's crazy and not as glamorous as everyone thinks it is," model Carmen Solomons added, noting that sometimes it's hard to make time to eat proper meals. "It's tiring."

Model Alioune Fall said the people you see at New York Fashion Week are doing a lot more work than you might imagine.

A model gets their makeup done during New York Fashion Week on September 12, 2023. Jason Mendez/Stringer/Getty Images

In many cases, he said, you don't get to watch the show and go home. Instead, many people are filming content, doing interviews, hosting photo shoots, and laying the groundwork for bigger projects they'll work on when they leave.

"The people you see attending are oftentimes doing a lot of work on the back end, and whatever you see on social media is not even 10% of what fashion week really is," Fall said.

Read the original article on Insider
For the first time since Alex Murdaugh was convicted of murdering his wife and son, the disgraced former lawyer appeared in court on Thursday to learn the anticipated start date of his first white collar crime trial.

Donning an orange prison jumpsuit and a buzzed haircut, a shackled Murdaugh smiled and greeted each of his lawyers before he sat at the defense table in Beaufort County Court for the status hearing in connection with state charges alleging he stole upward of $4.3 million in insurance money intended for the family of his late housekeeper, Gloria Satterfield.

During the fiery hearing, defense attorney Dick Harpootlian argued for a delay of the trial and change of venue on the state charges, arguing that his team needs to prepare after Murdaughs February murder trial. The lawyer also alleged that the South Carolina attorney generals office is attempting to make this latest case a national spectacle and noted there is still too much pretrial publicity, asking, Where are you going to get a jury? Mars?

Prosecutor Creighton Waters pushed back on the allegations, calling the request for a delay an assault on the judiciary. Judge Clifton Newman, who also presided over Murdaughs murder trial, ignored the defenses protests and scheduled the Satterfield trial for Nov. 27.

State Opens Probe of Alleged Jury-Tampering in Murdaugh Case

Prosecutors say that in 2018, after Satterfield died from a fall at Murdaughs home, the former lawyer urged her two sons to file a claim against him to collect on his homeowners insurance policy. Then, instead of handing them the payout as agreed, Murdaugh allegedly conspired with his longtime friend Corey Fleming to divert the funds for his financial gain. The Satterfield sons did not learn about the payout until after the 2021 double homicide of Murdaughs wife, Maggie, and son Paul. (Murdaugh has since agreed to pay the Satterfields the missing money and apologized for the scheme.)

Fleming was sentenced to 46 months in prison last month after pleading guilty to federal charges for his role in the Satterfield theft. On Thursday afternoon, Fleming was also sentenced to 10 years in prison on similar state charges.

Murdaugh, who is currently serving two life sentences, faces almost 100 state charges after prosecutors allege he swindled money from his law firm and clients for years to maintain his luxurious lifestyle in the Lowcountry. He is also expected to plead guilty to similar federal financial charges in a hearing scheduled for next week.

The state conference comes five months after Murdaugh was found guilty of all charges in connection with the June 2021 killings of Paul and Maggie Murdaugh. Throughout the six-week trial, prosecutors argued that in a twisted attempt to evade mounting questions about his financial misdeeds, Murdaugh fatally shot his wife and son near the sheds of their familys hunting estate.

. #AlexMurdaugh enters state court for the first time since he was convicted of killing his wife Maggie and son Paul. https://t.co/ql3ceSZVIE pic.twitter.com/buy7Liwm64  Cathy Russon (@cathyrusson) September 14, 2023

Last week, Murdaughs legal team filed a motion for a new trial, alleging that a court clerk tampered with the jury during the murder trial and influenced them toward a swift deliberation and conviction.

In the bombshell motion, defense lawyers allege that Colleton County clerk of court Rebecca Hill advised the jurors not to believe Murdaughs testimony and other evidence presented by the defense, pressuring them to reach a quick guilty verdict, and even misrepresenting critical and material information to the trial judge in her campaign to remove a juror she believed to be favorable to the defense.

The defense team also sent a letter to the U.S. Attorney Adair Boroughs to request a federal investigation into whether Murdaughs civil rights were violated during the trial by the alleged witness tampering.

Mr. Murdaugh may be the most unpopular man in South Carolina right now, the lawyers said in the letter. He has become the symbol of the Lowcountry judicial corruption. Disgust at his frauds unfortunately has created in some minds a but not Alex Murdaugh exception to the due process rights enjoyed by all Americans, regardless [of] guilt or innocence. Those minds may delight in the irony that he may very well be a victim of the corruption he symbolizes.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) on Thursday announced an investigation into the allegations, and the South Carolina attorney generals office has until Friday to respond to the defenses motion.

Hill previously denied any wrongdoing to The Daily Beast, calling the allegations totally not true.

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.
Ukrainian forces shot down 17 of the 22 Shahed "kamikaze" drones launched by Russia overnight in the direction of four oblasts, the Air Force reported on Sept. 14.

The military recorded a total number of 22 attack drones launched from Chauda in occupied Crimea and from the vicinity of the Russian cities of Yeysk and Kursk between 9 p.m. and 2:30 a.m.

The unmanned aerial vehicles reportedly headed in the direction of Mykolaiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Sumy oblasts.

According to the Air Force, Ukrainian forces shot down 17 of the incoming drones.

Local officials reported eight drones shot down over Mykolaiv Oblast, and three drones over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.

Zaporizhzhia Oblast Governor Yurii Malashko did not clarify how many Shaheds were destroyed over the region, but reported on five drones attacking Trudove and three attacking Stepove and Piatykhatky.

The Sumy Oblast Military Administration said that one drone hit a grocery store in the Yunakivka community, starting a fire, and another targeted a defunct bathhouse in the Nova Sloboda community.

No casualties have been reported as a result of the drone strikes.

Read also: Deliberate murders of Ukrainian children by Russian soldiers reveal culture of impunity

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Full text: Proposal of the People's Republic of China on the Reform and Development of Global Governance

Xinhua) 08:13, September 14, 2023

BEIJING, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a proposal of the People's Republic of China on the Reform and Development of Global Governance on Wednesday.

Following is the full text of the proposal:

Today, changes in the world, in our times and in history are unfolding in ways like never before. The deficits in peace, development, security and governance are growing. Humanity is once again at a crossroads, and facing a consequential choice on its future. Meanwhile, world multi-polarity and economic globalization keep evolving. Peace, development and win-win cooperation are the unstoppable trends of the times. Solidarity, cooperation and progress remain the aspiration of people around the world.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping's proposal on building a community with a shared future for mankind. Facing global changes unseen in a century, and keeping in mind both China's realities and global developments, President Xi Jinping has creatively put forth the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind. This proposal has pointed the way forward for the future development of the world and provided a solution for common challenges. Over the past decade, the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind has grown from an idea to action and a vision to reality. China calls on the international community to act on true multilateralism, uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core, support the U.N. in playing a central role in international affairs, further develop and improve the global governance system, and jointly build a community with a shared future for mankind.

I.Enhancing global security governance and safeguarding world peace and stability

Security is humanity's most basic need and the most important global public good. As the world faces frequently emerging hotspot issues, rising geopolitical conflicts, and rampant unilateral and bullying practices, the international community needs peace, trust, solidarity and cooperation, rather than war, suspicion, division or confrontation. China welcomes the New Agenda for Peace presented by Secretary General Antonio Guterres, and is ready to have further discussions and build consensus with all parties.

President Xi Jinping has put forward the Global Security Initiative (GSI). It advocates a commitment to the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security; a commitment to respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries; a commitment to abiding by the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter; a commitment to taking the legitimate security concerns of all countries seriously; a commitment to peacefully resolving differences and disputes between countries through dialogue and consultation; and a commitment to maintaining security in both traditional and non-traditional domains, with a view to jointly promoting a global community of security for all.

China firmly supports a political settlement of the Ukraine crisis. The sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be upheld, the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter observed, and the legitimate security concerns of all sides taken seriously. All efforts conducive to a peaceful settlement of the crisis should be supported. The root cause of the crisis lies in the problem of security governance in Europe. Parties concerned must face the crux of the issue squarely, stop shifting problems, build mutual trust and accommodate each other's legitimate security concerns, so as to gradually create conditions for ceasefire and peace talks. No one gains from conflicts and wars. Imposing sanctions, exerting pressure, or adding fuel to the fire will only escalate the situation. It is important to maintain mutual respect, abandon the Cold War mentality, stop ganging up to stoke camp-based confrontation, and work to build a balanced, effective and sustainable European security architecture.

China maintains that it is important to preserve peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, achieve denuclearization and establish a peace mechanism on the Peninsula. The issue needs to be resolved through dialogue and consultation, and the legitimate concerns of all sides addressed in a balanced manner. Given the current situation, parties concerned need to remain calm and restrained, work to ease the situation and make efforts to create conditions for the resumption of dialogue, rather than insisting on sanctions and pressuring, which would only aggravate problems and escalate tensions. China has been actively promoting peace and talks, and will continue to work with the international community to follow the dual-track approach and take phased and synchronized steps, and to play a constructive role in the political settlement of the Peninsula issue.

China calls on the international community to respect the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan, follow the "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned" principle, and maintain engagement and dialogue with Afghanistan on that basis. The international community needs to continue its humanitarian and development assistance for Afghanistan, support Afghanistan in integrating into the connectivity and economic integration process in the region to enhance its capability for independent and sustainable development, and encourage Afghanistan to put in place an inclusive political framework, adopt moderate policies, combat terrorism and develop friendly external relations. Certain country needs to draw lessons from what happened in Afghanistan, abandon double standard on combating terrorism, unconditionally return to Afghanistan its overseas assets, lift unilateral sanctions on Afghanistan, and take concrete actions to fulfill responsibilities to the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan.

China firmly supports the Palestinian people's just cause of restoring their legitimate national rights. The fundamental solution to the Palestinian question is to establish an independent state of Palestine that enjoys full sovereignty on the basis of the 1967 border and with east Jerusalem as its capital. The international community needs to step up development assistance and humanitarian aid to Palestine, and help meet Palestine's economic and livelihood needs. It is important to keep to the right direction of peace talks, respect the historical status quo of the holy sites in Jerusalem, refrain from making radical and provocative comments and moves, promote the hosting of an international peace conference with wider participation, higher authority and greater influence, create conditions for the resumption of peace talks, and make concrete efforts to help the two states of Palestine and Israel to coexist peacefully. China will play an active role in facilitating Palestine's internal reconciliation and peace talks.

China believes that regional hotspots such as the Iranian nuclear issue and the issues of Syria, Sudan, Libya and Yemen need to be resolved through political means. China supports Middle East countries in independently exploring development paths, resolving regional security issues through solidarity and coordination, and maintaining lasting peace and security in the region. China supports African countries in solving African issues in the African way to restore peace and stability on the African continent, supports African countries and people in independently choosing their paths to modernization, and supports Africa in speaking with one voice on international affairs and continuously elevating its international standing. China will enhance solidarity and coordination with the African side, and jointly implement the Initiative on Supporting Africa's Industrialization, the Plan for China Supporting Africa's Agricultural Modernization and the Plan for China-Africa Cooperation on Talent Development, to help Africa bring its integration and modernization onto a fast track. China firmly opposes certain country's wanton use of unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction, and believes that conditions should be created for the developing countries to grow their economy and improve the people's well-being.

China strongly condemns all forms of terrorism and extremism. China opposes associating terrorism and extremism with any particular country, ethnic group or religion, opposes double standard on counter-terrorism, and opposes politicizing or instrumentalizing the issue of counter-terrorism. It is important to take a holistic approach and address both the symptoms and root causes in fighting terrorism, so as to eradicate the breeding ground of terrorism at the source. China supports the U.N. in playing a central and coordinating role to help developing countries build capacity for fighting terrorism, form greater synergy worldwide against terrorism, and address the challenges brought by emerging technologies.

Nuclear weapons must not be used and nuclear wars must never be fought. The international community should jointly oppose the threat or use of nuclear weapons. China supports greater efforts to reduce strategic risks based on the joint statement by the leaders of the five nuclear-weapon states on preventing nuclear war. Nuclear disarmament should be advanced in a step-by-step manner under the principles of "maintaining global strategic stability" and "undiminished security for all." Countries with the largest nuclear arsenals should earnestly fulfill their special and primary responsibilities in nuclear disarmament, continue to effectively implement the New START Treaty, and make further substantial and substantive cuts to their nuclear arsenals in a verifiable, irreversible and legally binding manner, so as to create conditions for achieving the ultimate goal of general and complete nuclear disarmament. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) is the bedrock of international nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation regime, and an important part of the post-war international security system. It plays an irreplaceable role in promoting world peace and development. The international community should advance the three pillars of the NPT in a balanced way and jointly safeguard the treaty's authority, effectiveness and universality.

China pays great attention to nuclear security. It has proposed a rational, coordinated, and balanced approach to nuclear security and worked actively for a global community of shared future on nuclear security. Nuclear security is a lifeline in the development of nuclear energy and application of nuclear technology. Peaceful uses of nuclear energy should not be pursued at the expense of the environment and human health. The Japanese government should respond fully to the international community's major concerns on the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water from Fukushima, shoulder its moral responsibilities and obligations under international law, and stop discharging the nuclear-contaminated water. The Japanese government needs to show sincerity and have full communication with neighboring countries, accept strict international oversight, and ensure that the contaminated water is disposed of in a science-based, safe and transparent manner.

China is committed to upholding the authority and effectiveness of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction (CWC) and to achieving the goal of a world free of chemical weapons. China urges Japan to speed up the destruction of abandoned chemical weapons in China. China upholds the CWC as a guideline for properly settling hotspot issues concerning chemical weapons, opposes politicization, and promotes international cooperation on peaceful uses of chemistry.

II. Improving global development governance and jointly pursuing global sustainable development

Development is the eternal pursuit of mankind and the shared responsibility of all countries. President Xi Jinping has proposed the Global Development Initiative (GDI) and called on the international community to strengthen unity and mutual trust, put development first, and address challenges together, thus boosting efforts to bring the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development back on track.

With the implementation of the GDI as a main focus, China will push for international efforts to consolidate and expand consensus on development and keep development front and center on the global agenda. China will pursue greater synergy of development strategies at the global, regional, subregional and national levels, including synergy between the GDI and the U.N. development agenda, to achieve complementarity and interconnected development. More will be done to harness the development resources of governments, the business community, the academia and civil societies, improve the allocation of global development resources, deepen practical cooperation in the priority areas of the GDI, and work with all sides to enrich the open-ended pool of GDI projects. China calls on developed countries to deliver on their commitments on official development assistance and climate financing, address the uneven distribution of global development resources, pay attention to development knowledge sharing, and provide capacity-building support to developing countries.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping's proposal of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Over the past decade, China has championed the Silk Road spirit of peace and cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, mutual learning, and mutual benefit, and focused on enhancing policy, infrastructure, trade, financial and people-to-people connectivity, with a view to delivering development and prosperity to all countries. In October this year, China will host the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. That will be an opportunity for China to push for higher-level cooperation, better cost-effectiveness, higher-quality supply, and stronger development resilience in Belt and Road cooperation and work with all parties to deepen exchange and cooperation across the board, enhance the complementarity and synergy between the BRI and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and make greater contributions to global development.

China supports efforts to make economic globalization more open, inclusive, balanced and beneficial to all. The international community needs to stick to opening up as the overall direction, uphold multilateralism, firmly safeguard free trade and the multilateral trading system, oppose unilateralism and protectionism, promote connectivity, and encourage integrated development; stick to equality as the basis, respect the social systems and development paths of different countries, and make the global economic governance system more just and equitable; and stick to cooperation as a driving force, pursue extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefits, and promote mutually beneficial cooperation.

Food security is essential for human survival. It is an important part of the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. China supports U.N. agencies in leveraging their professional expertise and coordinating role to mobilize scaled up assistance from the international community, developed countries in particular, to meet the pressing needs of people in relevant countries. The international community needs to step up cooperation to establish a fair, equitable, sustainable and stable order for agricultural trade, and avoid politicizing and weaponizing food security issues. Greater support should be given to developing countries, especially the most vulnerable countries, to help them enhance capacity for food security.

China supports the pursuit of green and low-carbon development. In the course of a just energy transition, the different national realities and capabilities of countries should be fully respected, and traditional energy should be phased out on the basis of ensuring safe and reliable alternative energy sources. The grave challenges of energy security are essentially caused by disruption in supply chain and international cooperation, not by production or demand. China firmly opposes attempts to politicize, instrumentalize and weaponize energy issues. Countries should work together to ensure smooth supply chains, stabilize the energy market and prices, and strive for the goal of ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.

China attaches great importance to addressing climate change and maintains that countries should work in concert within multilateral frameworks to tackle this pressing global challenge. It is important to stick to the objectives, principles and institutional arrangements outlined in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and its Paris Agreement, especially the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. Developed countries should face their historical responsibilities squarely, take the lead in significantly reducing emissions, and deliver on their commitments of financial, technical and capacity-building support to developing countries. China will work with the rest of the international community to push for the full and effective implementation of the Paris Agreement and to foster a fair, equitable, cooperative and win-win system of global climate governance.

III. Advancing global human rights and social governance and jointly promoting civilizational exchange and progress

Equal-footed exchange and mutual learning between different civilizations will provide robust spiritual guidance for humanity in resolving the challenges of our times and realizing common development. In proposing the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), President Xi Jinping aims to promote the exchange and mutual learning between civilizations, enhance mutual understanding and friendship between people of all countries, build international consensus for cooperation and advance the progress of human civilizations. This has injected strong impetus to the modernization of human society and building a community with a shared future for mankind.

We need to respect the diversity of civilizations, uphold the principles of equality, mutual learning, dialogue and inclusiveness among civilizations, and let cultural exchange transcend estrangement, mutual learning transcend clashes, and coexistence transcend feelings of superiority. We need to jointly advocate humanity's common values of peace, development, equity, justice, democracy and freedom, reject imposing values and models on others, and oppose stoking ideological confrontation. We need to attach importance to the inheritance and innovation of civilizations, fully harness the relevance of histories and cultures to the present times, and push for creative transformation and innovative development of all fine traditional cultures in the process of modernization.

Human rights for all is the shared pursuit of humanity. People's happiness is the biggest human right. In advancing human rights, countries should put the people front and center, make the people's aspirations for a better life their starting point and ultimate goal, and keep making efforts to resolve the most practical problems that are of the greatest and most direct concern to the people, so that people can lead a good life. We must safeguard people's democratic rights, fully inspire their motivation, initiative and creativity, and ensure that the people run the country, enjoy human rights equally, and become the chief participants, promoters and beneficiaries in human rights advancement.

There is no one-size-fits-all model for promoting and protecting human rights. All countries' independent choice of their own path of human rights development should be respected. Human rights have historical, specific and practical contexts. Countries vary from one another in historical background, cultural heritage, social systems and levels of socio-economic development. Their paths of human rights advancement can have inevitable differences. They need to combine the principle of universality of human rights and their national conditions and advance human rights in light of national realities and the needs of their people. Human rights issues should not be politicized or used as a tool, double standard should be rejected, and still less should human rights be used as an excuse to interfere in other countries' internal affairs or encircle and contain other countries as they pursue development.

Human rights is an all-encompassing, rich concept. All aspects of human rights are equally important and should be advanced in a coordinated and systematic way. Among them the rights to subsistence and development are the basic human rights of paramount importance, and economic, social and cultural rights should be accorded enough attention. Long-standing issues, such as racial discrimination, religious hatred and the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on human rights should be effectively addressed as soon as possible. Emerging issues including digital technology and artificial intelligence in relation to human rights should receive due attention and be addressed properly.

Promoting and protecting human rights requires concerted effort of the international community. Human rights should be safeguarded through enhancing security. It is important to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, jointly follow a path of peaceful development, implement the GSI and create a peaceful environment for the realization of human rights. Human rights should be advanced through development. It is important to implement the GDI, make development more inclusive, universally beneficial and sustainable, and make sure that development is for the people and by the people, and that its fruits are shared among the people. Human rights should be facilitated through cooperation. It is important to implement the GCI, engage in human rights exchange and cooperation on the basis of mutual respect, inclusiveness and equality, learn from each other, build consensus and jointly pursue human rights progress.

The Human Rights Council and other U.N. human rights bodies should be platforms for dialogue and cooperation, not places for confrontation and pressuring. The U.N. human rights bodies should adhere to the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter, uphold the principles of impartiality, objectivity, non-selectivity and non-politicization, conduct constructive dialogue and cooperation with Member States, respect the sovereignty of all countries, and perform within their mandate in an objective and impartial manner. The underrepresentation of developing countries in the staff composition of the U.N. human rights bodies should be changed as soon as possible. International human rights dialogue and cooperation should be further promoted through commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for the healthy development of the global human rights cause.

Promoting the cause of women and children is an important aspect of social governance. The international community needs to keep working hard to implement the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and put the protection of the rights and interests of women and children high on their agenda. National strategies for the development of women and children should be formulated and improved, comprehensive measures taken to ensure that women and children enjoy the various benefits of development, and the development of women and children kept in step with socio-economic progress. We should support the U.N. in its leading and coordinating role and strengthen international cooperation on the cause of women and children.

Education is an important force for the progress of human civilization. China stands ready to work with countries around the world for more educational exchange, enhance openness in education and actively support other developing countries in advancing education. We call on all countries to step up input in education and enhance its equity, inclusiveness and safety. We support the U.N.'s important role in realizing the sustainable development goal on education, the efforts to promote global peace and sustainable development through reform and development of education, and contribute to realizing equality in education opportunities and universal benefits of educational advancement, to realize the SDG on education in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

IV. Developing global governance of new frontiers and building a governance framework for the future

The progress and development of science and technology has enriched the denotations and connotations of the concepts of international peace and security. The deep sea, polar regions, outer space, cyberspace and digital technology, and artificial intelligence (AI) have become new frontiers of global governance. Faced with the new circumstances, new areas and new challenges, we need to follow the principles of peace, development, inclusiveness and shared governance, and take active steps to keep the rules governing new frontiers up to date with the times and fully reflective of developing countries' opinions, interests and aspirations. The rights to participation, stating their views, and decision-making of developing countries should be fully safeguarded.

Scientific and technological advances should benefit all humanity, not becoming means of restricting and containing other countries' development. Certain countries must not erode the governance of new frontiers with their hegemonic mentality, overstretch the concept of national security and build "small yards with high fences" with their advantage in science and technology. Countries need to seize the historic opportunity of the new round of scientific, technological and industrial revolution, accelerate translating scientific and technological advances into productivity, uncover new drivers of growth in the post-COVID era, and work together to leapfrog progress in development. The U.N. should play the core role in implementing the resolution of the General Assembly entitled "Promoting International Cooperation on Peaceful Uses in the Context of International Security," ensure that developing countries fully enjoy the right to peaceful uses of science and technology to facilitate the realization of sustainable development goals, and effectively respond to security risks posed by scientific and technological development. China will enhance international exchange and cooperation in science and technology with a more open mind and actions, work with other countries to foster an open, fair, equitable and non-discriminatory environment for the development of science and technology, and promote mutual and shared benefit, to tap into China's strength in science and technology for advancing human development.

The development of AI benefits all countries, and all countries should be able to participate extensively in the global governance of AI. All parties should follow the principles of extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefits, give play to the role of the U.N. as the main channel, and promote a people-centered approach and such visions as AI for good, emphasis on development and priority for ethics. All parties should work for greater representation and voice of developing countries, and shape widely accepted AI governance framework, standards and norms, and ensure that AI is safe, reliable and controllable, and that all countries share in the benefits of AI technologies.

The international community should commit to upholding a cyberspace featuring peace, security, openness and cooperation, and oppose the camp-based division, militarization and fragmentation of cyberspace. No party should overstretch the concept of national security, or unscrupulously deprive another country of its legitimate right to development. Advantage in cyber technologies should not be used to spread aggressive cyber technologies, or turn cyberspace into a new battleground for geopolitical competition. It is important to reject unilateral protectionism, uphold the principles of openness, fairness and non-discrimination, and create a sound, open and inclusive environment for building important international infrastructure such as submarine cables. China supports the U.N. in playing a leading role in global digital governance and rules-making. China stands ready to work with all parties to find solutions to acute issues in digital development and global digital governance, build international consensus, and develop international rules on digital governance based on the Global Initiative on Data Security. All parties should uphold multilateralism, stay committed to fairness and justice, both pursue development and safeguard security, deepen dialogue and cooperation, improve the global digital governance system, and work for a community with a shared future in cyberspace. Cybercrimes are a common threat facing all countries. China supports negotiations chaired by the U.N. to formulate a universal and authoritative global convention, to create a legal framework for countries to strengthen international cooperation against cybercrimes.

China attaches great importance to biosecurity and is committed to improving global biosecurity governance. China supports States Parties in jointly implementing the outcomes of the Ninth Review Conference of the Biological Weapons Convention and facilitating substantive outcomes achieved by the working group on the strengthening of the Convention. China supports strengthening the Convention mechanism by resuming multilateral negotiations on a Convention verification protocol. Meanwhile, the international community should work together to advocate responsible biological research and development, and encourage all stakeholders to voluntarily observe the Tianjin Biosecurity Guidelines for Codes of Conduct for Scientists, in order to reduce biosecurity risks and promote the sound development of biological science and technology.

Oceans hold great significance for the survival and development of human society. China will work with all countries to uphold the maritime order based on international law, properly address all kinds of common maritime threats and challenges under the framework of the GSI, develop and utilize marine resources in a science-based and orderly manner under the framework of the GDI, advance marine governance cooperation based on equality, mutual benefit and mutual respect, safeguard maritime peace and tranquility and waterway security, build a maritime community with a shared future, and promote steady progress of the global maritime cause.

Peaceful exploration and use of outer space is an equal right for all countries in the world. Lasting peace and security in outer space bears on the security, development and prosperity of all countries. China has all along upheld the principle of exploration and use of outer space for the well-being of the entire humanity, and safeguarded the international order in outer space with the Outer Space Treaty of 1967 as the cornerstone. On the basis of equality, mutual respect, peaceful use and inclusive development, China carries out international cooperation on outer space, opposes the weaponization of and an arms race in outer space, and advocates building a community with a shared future for mankind in outer space. Countries that are major players in outer space should take up primary responsibility for safeguarding peace and security in outer space. China supports the U.N. in giving full play to its role as the main platform for global governance and international cooperation on outer space, and supports early start of negotiations and conclusion of a legal instrument on arms control in outer space through negotiations at the Conference on Disarmament.

V. Strengthening the core role of the U.N. and advancing the reform of the global governance system

In the Declaration on the Commemoration of the Seventy-fifth Anniversary of the United Nations, the countries committed to strengthen global governance for the common future of present and coming generations. The Summit of the Future in 2024 presents an opportunity for us to, with a sense of responsibility to succeeding generations, cement solidarity and cooperation, advance the reform of the global governance system, and support the U.N. in better playing its role.

China takes an active part in the reform and development of the global governance system. It practices consultation, cooperation and shared benefits in global governance, upholds true multilateralism, promotes greater democracy in international relations, and works for more just and equitable global governance. The key to the reform of the global governance system lies in balancing fairness and efficiency, keeping up with the evolved international political and economic landscape, meeting the practical need to address global challenges, and being in tune with the historical trend of peace, development, cooperation and mutual benefit.

China firmly supports the core role of the U.N. in international affairs. The reform of the U.N. should be conducive to safeguarding multilateralism and the role of the U.N., increasing the voice of developing countries in international affairs, and boosting the enforcement capacity and management efficiency of U.N. agencies. It is important to follow the basic principle of equal-footed consultation in the U.N., and help the U.N. stand firm for justice, uphold the rule of law, promote cooperation and focus on real action.

China supports necessary and equitable reform of the Security Council to boost its authority and efficiency, enhance its capacity to tackle global threats and challenges, and let it better fulfill its mandate prescribed in the U.N. Charter. The Security Council should not become a club of the big countries or rich countries. Its reform should credibly increase the representation and voice of developing countries, redress the historical injustices done to Africa, and give more developing countries with independent foreign policies and just positions the opportunity to sit on the Security Council and participate in its decision-making. China supports making special arrangements to meet Africa's aspiration as a priority. Security Council reform concerns the future of the U.N. and the fundamental interests of the entire membership. All parties should uphold the role of the intergovernmental negotiations on Security Council reform as the main channel, follow the member state-led principle, reach the most extensive political consensus through full and democratic consultation, and seek a package solution that addresses the interests and concerns of all parties on the five clusters of key issues related to the reform.

China advocates strengthening communication and cooperation among mechanisms such as the U.N., the G20, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, to enhance macroeconomic policy coordination and improve global economic governance. It is important to boost the capacity and efficiency of international financial institutions in operation and fund-raising, increase the representation and voice of developing countries in international financial institutions, raise the efficiency of using reserve assets such as Special Drawing Rights, step up investment in international public goods urgently needed by developing countries, and ensure participation of multilateral creditors in joint handling of debts.

China supports necessary and equitable reform of the global health governance system, to raise the efficiency of the system, better respond to global public health crises, and build a global community of health for all. China supports the World Health Organization in playing a central coordinating role in global health governance and in strengthening cooperation on public health with all sides in an objective, just and science-based manner. China will continue to support and participate in science-based global origins-tracing, and firmly opposes political manipulation of any form.

Humanity is living in a time rife with challenges and also a time full of hope. Faced with global challenges that are increasingly serious and complex, countries around the world must assume the shared task of working to strengthen and improve the global governance system. China will work together with the rest of the international community to uphold true multilateralism and implement the GDI, the GSI and the GCI. Together, we will create a better future for humanity.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain discusses strike preparations during a Facebook Live appearance Wednesday, saying workers are set to enact the plan Friday if a contract agreement hasn't been reached.

A strike by the United Auto Workers could send economic ripples through the Akron area, a region with deep roots in rubber and automobile manufacturing.

Steve Millard, president and CEO of the Greater Akron Chamber, said many companies here are still finding their footing again after the COVID-19 pandemic due to staffing shortages and supply chain issues.

Steve Millard, president and CEO of the Greater Akron Chamber

In contract negotiations with the Big Three automakers  General Motors, Ford and Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler)  the UAW is asking for wage increases, restoration of cost of living adjustments, reestablishment of retiree medical benefits, more paid time off and a right to strike over plant closures.

UAW President Shawn Fain had warned that workers were prepared to enact a strike plan at 11:59 p.m. Thursday if a tentative contract deal was not reached by 10 p.m.

"A disruption in production could have a serious impact on the supply chain overall," Millard said. "Our suppliers could see a significant impact depending on the length and breadth of a strike. This is a concern given that a lot companies are still working to get back to where they were before the pandemic and achieve stability in their operations."

Millard said the area depends on its companies connected to the auto industry.

"Our region is still significantly tied to the automotive industry," he said. "We have a lot of suppliers in the first, second and third tiers that would be impacted if production stopped in Detroit."

U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown , D-Ohio, said in a livestreamed media conference Thursday that the UAW made many sacrifices a decade ago when the automobile industry was in crisis.

"The Big Three wouldn't make a dime if it weren't for the workers," Brown said. "It's a simple demand, really, to respect the work that has made these auto companies successful. There is still time for the Big Three to avert a strike."

Things have improved for the auto industry, Brown said. Auto executives in these companies make millions a year, and GM, Ford and Stellantis collectively reported $21 billion in profits in the first half of this year.

"Times now are very, very good for these companies and are very good for the CEOs," Brown said. "These companies were in trouble a decade ago. They now don't want to share these profits with these workers."

Brown said the workers would rather remain on the job than strike. Striking workers never recover the wages lost during a stoppage.

"They don't want to strike. But when companies refuse to recognize the work they do, then they are backed into a corner," Brown said. "Workers are behind the success."

Reporter April Helms can be reached at ahelms@thebeaconjournal.com

"

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Potential UAW strike could hurt Akron businesses, Chamber leader says
Every year for the past seven years, Generation Investment Management, the sustainability-focused public and private equity firm co-founded by former U.S. vice president Al Gore , has published a sustainability trends report that aims to become as much a bible to the climate tech industry as Mary Meeker's famous "internet trends" reports were to so-called dot.com entrepreneurs.

Reading the latest report, it seems conceivable that it will reach its objectives. This year's survey moves fluidly from transportation to plastics to buildings to land and food, while presenting a clear-eyed view of the vast progress that has been made -- and the roadblocks that continue to slow down advancements and sometimes stymie public policies.

The report also raises deserving questions, including about much-hyped hydrogen (and how much of it society will be willing to produce or how large the market will be), and whether rising demand for electric vehicles can be met given that each EV requires far more metals for its battery.

To discuss the good, the bad and the ugly, this editor talked yesterday with Gore and Lila Preston, who joined Generation in 2004 and is Head of Growth Equity at the firm. Our conversation below has been edited for length; we'll have the full interview for you in podcast form later this week.

TC: I dread looking at reports, but I thoroughly enjoyed yours. I didn't realize the greenhouse implications of producing dark chocolate fall right behind beef consumption. I wasn't aware of the number of places in the world that are turning to congestion charging. Who are you trying to educate here and toward what end?

AG: We've done this for seven years now and with each of these reports, we try our best to give the most accurate picture of where this sustainability transition is, how far we've come, what our momentum is, how far we still have to go, what the milestones are, what the successes are, what the remaining challenges are . . . The last year proved that we have finally mustered the political will to take significant steps forward in the global efforts to solve the climate crisis. The new ambition in the U.S., the EU, Australia and Brazil has kicked off a global race to the top for climate policy. But we are still far from the finish line. We have a lot more to do because society has still not committed itself fully to writing the laws, mobilizing the capital, revising the long-standing practices and building the clean machinery and technology needed at the pace required. That is, in our view, the state of play.

You quickly cover a lot of ground in the report, from plastics to transportation. What do you find to be the most vexing problem of our age?

AG: As tempting as it is to just pick out one factor and highlight it as the main challenge we face, I'm gonna resist answering your question that way. We still have to cross the threshold of decision making on a collective global scale. We're getting very close; as others have written, it seems like Mother Nature is staging an intervention. And we have these powerful tailwinds with the cost-reduction curves for wind and solar and batteries and EVs and LEDs and clean buildings and sustainable forestry and regenerative agriculture.

But governments around the world are still subsidizing fossil fuels at a rate that is 42 times larger than renewables . . . [In addition], almost 80% of all of the financing for this astounding buildout of solar and wind has come from private capital, [while] developing countries have been walled off from fair access to it because there are extra layers of political risk, rule-of-law risk, corruption risk, of currency risk, offtake risk -- you can go down the list. So getting more access to private capital for the developing countries is essential, [as is] reducing the absurd continuing subsidies of the destruction of humanity's future by governments and finding ways to mitigate the unhealthy degree of control over policymaking that the fossil fuel industry has captured in too many countries.

Generation closed a $1.7 billion fund last year. What are you funding and how do you prioritize what you're going to be backing? I'm starting to see more startups focused on feeding cows seaweed, for example, to reduce their methane emissions. There are so many opportunities to chase.

LP: We have 18 years of experience in navigating these transitions and thinking about how sustainability shapes a broad set of sectors. Agriculture and food is one where I've spent many years looking at the trends and sustainability disruptions. Then we have a real focus on planetary health but also people health and financial inclusion, so taking a system-positive investing approach.

In the food and agriculture sector, there have been many waves of technology disruption. It is very difficult to get channel and scale to market. So one of the places that we've spent a lot of time, dating back to our first fund in 2008, is the role of biology and biologicals and displacing chemistry, including synthetic nitrogen, in crops. We've also focused on software that drives transparency in the generation and documentation of regenerative agriculture and carbon credits, on innovations in animal husbandry and the better treatment of animals, [and] displacing the need for the animal ecosystem and driving toward alternative proteins -- so decoupling food production from land intensity. Importantly for us is: How do you marry [these] sustainability trends with a scalable, sustainable and profitable business and absolutely drive impact by being large and a significant contributor?

In terms of scaling, one area that had investors very excited and that turned out to be somewhat of a dead end for them is synthetic biology to replace petrochemicals. A Bay Area outfit, Zymergen, aimed to create more environmentally friendly materials for industrial applications, but they underestimated the difficulty of developing products. Gingko Bioworks, the company that acquired Zymergen a year ago, is meanwhile trading at $2 per share.

LP: It's really difficult to scale innovative, disruptive companies, irrespective of the sector in climate. The benefits of having been through that first wave is that you learned how to focus on unit economics on a growth model that doesn't require massive capital intensity [and] on management teams that have done this before [and are] fit for the scale up of a new technology. All those learnings have led us toward being focused on business quality within each of these sector roadmaps.

Vice President Gore, you talked about the need for more funding, a point that's also underscored in this new report. What are your thoughts about turning to oil-producing areas like Saudi Arabia for funding? U.S. firms have been doing business in the region forever, but there's been an interesting transition over the last six to maybe 12 months where they're doing it much more openly, including blue chip brands like Andreessen Horowitz.

AG: Well, first of all, we're not a venture firm, but I just want to toss a bouquet to the VC community, because I don't think they have gotten the credit they deserve for having seeded the development of most of these technologies that are now providing a powerful tailwind for the world's efforts to solve the climate crisis, including solar and wind and batteries and the other EVs. Not all of them made money. Many of them made money but made less than they had hoped. But they made a tremendous contribution to the world's effort to solve this crisis and not everything of value has a price tag on it, and I just hope that they feel good about what they have done.

As for taking money from the petro states, we don't, and my own view is that the fossil fuel industry has portrayed itself as the source of advice the world needs to solve the climate crisis and have tried to give the impression that they're on [everyone's] side in the effort to solve it. They're not, really. A few might be, but by and large, their purpose in this debate has been to slow the progress, block the progress, defeat any and every measure that might reduce the production and burning of fossil fuel by a single barrel, a single ton of coal, a single [unit] of methane. If you look at all of their so-called solutions, they all have one thing in common: They all assume the continued increase in the production and burning of fossil fuels. And some of the largest companies have used outright fraud for decades to intentionally confuse the public discussion and to slow progress. That sounds a little harsh, but that's the reality and it's still going on. Some of them are financing efforts to indoctrinate children in public elementary schools with completely false notions about the climate crisis! What is it all about? I mean, seriously. My own view is that you take money from the biggest polluters who are the biggest causes of the problem at your peril.

In a world in which the government is paralyzed by political infighting -- Speaker McCarthy's decision this week to pursue impeachment against Joe Biden is a case in point -- how do you persuade politicians to take the environment more seriously?

AG: A study just last week showed that an overwhelming super majority of young Republicans are aghast at the positions on climate taken by the current leaders of their party. I do think it's only a matter of time before that generational shift has a big impact.
Rep. Mary Peltola s (D-Alaska) office released a statement Thursday following news of her husbands death in a tragic plane crash Wednesday.

We are truly grateful for the kindness that Mary and her family have received since Buzzys passing yesterday, Peltolas chief of staff, Anton McParland, wrote in the statement Thursday.

McParland highlighted the generosity of Alaska Sens. Lisa Murkowski s (R) and Dan Sullivans (R) staffs, whove called to share comfort and advice based upon their years of service working for Alaskans in Congress. Murkowski and Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy both made their staff available to help, McParland said, and Sullivans chief of staff was on the phone in the early morning offering support.

These moments really stood out amidst a difficult time, reminding us of the community bonds that make Alaska so special. We are thankful to them and to everyone who continues to reach out with sympathy and stories about Buzzy, the statement read.

McParland said the office has been briefed by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which is investigating the crash as they do with every crash.

The NTSB, who work tirelessly to keep our skies safe, briefed us on the process yesterday. We defer all related questions to their team. Out of respect for the familys privacy, our office will not be commenting any further on the investigation at this time, McParland said.

Peltola is home in Alaska with her family, and McParland provided an address to send condolence notes.

In the statement Thursday, McParland said Alaskans have felt taken the news of Peltolas husbands death personally.

Alaska is a tight-knit state that relies on planes for basic travel, and so many Alaskans have felt the impact of an accident like this. That doesnt make it any less devastating, but it does mean we know how to support one another, McParland wrote in the statement. To everyone who has reached out, from Alaska to D.C. and everywhere in between, thank you. You have made a dark time just a little lighter.

Peltola was first elected to Congress in 2022, replacing Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska) who died in office after serving 49 years, becoming the longest-serving Republican. Peltola, a Democrat, ran a campaign focused on state-related issues, rather than national partisan causes. She was endorsed by some former members of Youngs staff and by Murkowski.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Republican Sens. Mitt Romney and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images; Celal Gunes/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska has some thoughts about Mitt Romney's salmon preparation.

[H]e's wrong about salmon!" Murkowski said on Twitter of her fellow Senate Republican.

According to a forthcoming biography, Romney put salmon on a burger bun and "smothered it' in ketchup.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski is sad to lose her fellow Republican dealmaker in Sen. Mitt Romney, but the Alaskan could do without Romney's reported favored way to consume her state's prized fish.

"Grateful to serve with @SenatorRomney, even if he's wrong about salmon!" Murkowski wrote on Twitter with a highlighted screenshot of an excerpt from the senator's forthcoming biography.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski (@lisamurkowski) September 14, 2023

In the book, journalist McKay Coppins recounts how Romney eats dinner alone most nights in his Washington home. Murkowski gifted Romney a bunch of salmon fillets, but since the Utah Republican is not a fan of the fish he found an unusual way to consume them.

"He didn't especially like salmon but found that if he put it on a hamburger bun and smothered it in ketchup, it made for a serviceable meal," Coppins wrote in "Romney: A Reckoning."

Murkowski has at times found a kindred spirit in Romney, who has been at the center of key bipartisan deals in recent years. The pair voted for Biden's infrastructure law, the most sweeping gun restrictions to pass the Senate in decades, and federal protections for same-sex marriages. They were also two of the seven Republicans to vote to convict former President Donald Trump for inciting the Capitol riot. Trump was ultimately acquitted.

Romney announced on Thursday that he would not seek reelection next year, calling for a new generation of leadership for the Republican Party. The anecdote was a funny aside in a book that apparently has fellow GOP senators nervous about how the 2012 GOP presidential nominee will dish about them.

A man who once ironed his shirt cuffs while wearing the shirt, Romney proudly blazes his own trail. When it comes to food, he is a big fan of hot dogs.

"Hot is my favorite meat. I love hot dog," Romney gushed in July on National Hot Dog Day. "I love them in buns, I love them outside of buns, I love them with baked beans. I just like hot dogs."

In the video, Romney was wielding a hot dog with a healthy amount of ketchup. But we will have to wait for another day to relish that debate.

Read the original article on Business Insider
For much of his 30-year career in politics, Alex Diaz de la Portilla has swung from risk and rejection to redemption.

Arrested Thursday on charges of money laundering, unlawful compensation and other wrongdoing relating to campaign finance expenses, the allegations are not the first time the veteran politician has faced campaign finance and breach of ethics violations, but they may now be the most serious.

Diaz de la Portilla, 58, is known locally as D.L.P. The second son of Cuban exiles Miguel Angel Diaz Pardo and Fabiola Pura de la Portilla Garcia, he is arguably the most prominent Miami member of the familys Cuban-American political dynasty.

He served six years in the Florida House and eight in the Florida Senate, rising into leadership posts in both chambers. He commanded powerful committees and Republican party posts that brought him clout and access to millions in campaign donations. Between 1994 and 2004, he never lost an election.

In his early career, Diaz de la Portilla earned the reputation as the bad boy of the Florida Legislature. He was known as a late-night partier, branded a traitor by fellow Republicans for trying to install former Rep. Luis Rojas of Hialeah as the next House speaker over Orlando Rep. Dan Webster, missed more votes than any other legislator, and was censured by the Miami-Dade Republican Party for crossing party leaders.

READ MORE: Miami Commissioner Alex Diaz de la Portilla arrested on bribery, money laundering charges

His older and younger brothers, Miguel and Renier, have also been fixtures in Miami politics and government, with Miguel having served in the Florida Senate and on the Miami-Dade County Commission, and Renier having served on the Miami-Dade County School board and succeeding Alex for one term in the state House. Born and raised in Little Havana, their paternal great-grandfather served in the Cuban Senate. Their maternal great-grandfather served as Cuban Minister of Justice.

Since Alex Diaz de la Portilla was first elected to the state House in 1994, he has positioned himself near the center of power in every government post he has held. But his handling of the role, and the frequent conflicts between his personal and business endeavors, have drawn a litany of legal and ethical challenges, including previous violations of Florida campaign finance laws.

A campaign finance fine 30 years ago

In 1995, the Florida Elections Commission fined him $500 for filing his 1992 campaign finance reports more than a year late. And in 2007, Diaz de la Portilla agreed to pay nearly $9,000 in fines after successfully challenging $311,000 in fines sought by the Florida Elections Commission.

The commission had mounted what was then a record fine after accusing the then-state representative of willfully ignoring campaign finance law and misleading the public about how much money he had raised in a 2000-special election against opponent state Rep. Carlos Valdes.

State ethics officials accused Diaz de la Portilla of not reporting personal loans and contributions worth more than $150,000. Some of the money had been used for last-minute attack ads against Valdes. After the commission agreed to whittle down the fine to $17,000, Diaz de la Portilla took his case to court. He told the judge he couldnt afford to pay the penalty, saying his only source of income was the roughly $30,000 he made as an elected official. The judge referred to his lifestyle and said he didnt believe him.

READ MORE: Miami Commissioner asks judge to wait until after election to hear shake down lawsuit

Diaz de la Portilla was first elected to the House in 1994 in a West Miami-Dade district, after two unsuccessful attempts to win the seat. In that campaign, he had to overcome criticism for several arrests in the 1980s, including allegations that he threatened his girlfriend in 1983, and another that he obstructed a police officer after a 1987 traffic stop. He was not found guilty in either of them, but he has a long law enforcement record.

In his 20s and early 30s, Diaz de la Portilla received more than 23 traffic tickets over 12 years, and his license was suspended 16 times  mostly for missing court dates. At the time, Diaz de la Portilla blamed the arrests on youthful indiscretions.

I was just a kid, he told the Miami Herald in 2003. I had a big mouth. He attributed his failure to go to court on his travels working for the familys mattress business, De Mattress.

Commissioner Alex Diaz de la Portilla, District 1, at the City of Miami commission meeting in Miami, Florida, Thursday, Jan. 9, 2020.

Becoming a power player in Tallahassee

But after six years in the state House and successful election to the state Senate in 2000, Diaz de la Portilla had emerged from his role with his familys business to be a political consultant by trade. In 2002, Jacksonville Republican Jim King, a popular and well-respected Senate president, named the new senator his president pro tempore, the second-ranking position in the Senate.

King said at the time that he was taking his chance on Diaz de la Portilla, whom he called a born-again senator, because he was early to meetings, does his homework, is a vital part of the inner circle of leadership and does my bidding.

Diaz de la Portillas legacy included shepherding former Gov. Jeb Bushs education reform plan through the House, working to legalize slot machines at dog and horse tracks in Florida, and helping to resurrect the foundering campaigns of more than one Senate colleague.

But in recent years, conflicts in his personal life also got the former senator in trouble.

In 2010, a Leon County Circuit Court judge issued a restraining order to keep him away from his estranged wife, Claudia Davant, and the Governors Club, a popular private club in Tallahassee. Davant said in court papers that she had been stalked and threatened and was in eminent fear for my life.

In her affidavit, Davant claimed that Diaz de la Portilla or one of his associates tried to break into her office and had her home bugged and computer and phone hacked. She also said that she was followed by one of Diaz de la Portillas associates. She complained her ex-husband had an explosive temper.

A year later, another Leon County Circuit Court judge issued a warrant for his arrest, after Diaz de la Portilla refused to turn over a Weimaraner dog to his ex-wife as part of the divorce case.

Entanglements with the Gimenez family

In 2012, Diaz de la Portilla and a guest were arrested at a Boston hotel after ignoring orders from security guards who told them to stop smoking cigarettes in their room and then told them to leave. They were charged with misdemeanor trespassing, but the charges were dismissed before arraignment.

The guest in the room was Tania Cruz-Gimenez, the daughter-in-law of then Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez. now a U.S. congressman from Miami. Its possible that circumstance contributed to what was Diaz de la Portillas highest profile dust-up until Thursdays arrest.

Ten years later, in a February 2022 encounter at Mortons Steakhouse in Coral Gables, Carlos J. Gimenez, son of former mayor and current congressman Carlos Gimenez, slapped Diaz de la Portilla on the back of the head and swore at him.

Diaz de la Portillas security detail, a detective from the Miami Police Department, intervened and the younger Gimenez was arrested and spent a night in jail. The charges were dropped.

After a nine-year hiatus after leaving the Senate because of term limits, and three unsuccessful campaigns, Diaz de la Portilla returned to elected office on the Miami commission.

In 2012, he lost a run for state House. In 2017, he lost the Republican primary for a Florida Senate district, a seat left open after former Sen. Frank Artiles resigned. And in 2018, he failed to make the runoff in the race to fill an empty Miami-Dade County Commission seat.

In April 2020, Diaz de la Portilla was elected to the Miami City Commission, representing Flagami, Allapattah and parts of Little Havana in District 1. His city commission colleagues voted to make him chairman of the Omni Community Redevelopment Agency, a powerful board charged with providing affordable housing and development in the citys blighted areas.

He soon urged the CRA to hire Jenny Nillo, a former aide to his brother Miguel, as a redevelopment project development specialist, at a salary of $45,000 a year. She had been sentenced to 36 months in federal prison for mortgage fraud and was serving probation.

But after Nillo was found rarely showing up for work and using her city-issued automobile to run personal errands for Diaz de la Portilla, the CRA fired her and voted out Diaz de la Portilla as chair.

By 2022, Diaz de la Portilla had another redemption. He reclaimed control of the powerful board, and his colleagues named him chair again.

Mary Ellen Klas can be reached at meklas@miamiherald.com and @MaryEllenKlas
BEAUFORT, S.C.  Former lawyer Alex Murdaugh appeared in a South Carolina courtroom Thursday for the first time since he was convicted six months ago of murdering his wife and younger son as he faces the next phase of the state's sprawling case against him  a web of alleged financial crimes involving two co-conspirators.

Prosecutors said Murdaugh, 55, faced 101 total charges and an alleged loss of $8.8 million to those affected by the alleged crimes.

Murdaugh appeared in Beaufort County General Sessions Court. Alleged accomplices Cory Fleming, a former lawyer and college roommate, and Russell Laffitte, an ex-banking CEO, who prosecutors say aided him in schemes to defraud clients out of money from at least 2005 to 2021, also appeared in court Thursday.

A timeline of Murdaughs legal troubles

Murdaughs attorneys eventually accepted a trial date of Nov. 27 after having argued for a delay. Fleming received a 20-year sentence to run concurrently with his federal sentence of 46 months. The decision around Laffittes court case was pushed to a later date.

Murdaugh walked in through a side door, handcuffed and in a bright orange jumpsuit to a courtroom that was almost full. His hair appeared to have grown back some after it was shaved when he was incarcerated.

Circuit Judge Clifton Newman , who presided over Murdaughs murder trial, also presided over this hearing, as the former attorney sat and stared directly ahead throughout the short appearance.

Ultimately, Murdaugh was escorted out the same way he came in. He was in the courtroom for fewer than 30 minutes.

Murdaugh was last in a courtroom in March, when he was sentenced to life in prison without parole in the fatal shootings of his wife, Margaret, 52, and son Paul, 22, at the family's hunting lodge estate in June 2021.

That trial drew national attention as prosecutors accused him of murdering his wife and son to gain pity and to distract from financial crimes threatening to topple his reputation in South Carolina's Lowcountry, where three generations of family patriarchs had wielded power as the top prosecutor for decades.

Image: Disbarred attorney Alex Murdaugh arrives in court in Beaufort, S.C. on Sept. 14, 2023. (James Pollard / AP)

Newman allowed the jury to hear evidence of Murdaughs alleged financial misdeeds, a pivotal win for the prosecution.

But that fact also became an immediate element in Murdaugh's defense.

Dick Harpootlian, who represents the former attorney, emphasized in the courtroom Thursday that Murdaugh's very public murder case came to an end just six months ago. It was aired on national television, podcasted, blogged and discussed deeply on the internet  that was all cause for a change of venue, he said.

"To try this case in less than a year than the other case, where are you going to get a jury?" He asked. "Mars?

Murdaugh's attorney also noted that they had requested a new murder trial because he alleged the court clerk had tampered with the jury. He accused the prosecution of "another effort at creating a national spectacle," and argued the financial case could not proceed until the issues of the murder case were handled.

Murdaugh's defense team accuses Rebecca Hill, the Colleton County clerk of court, of tampering with the jury by advising them not to believe Murdaughs testimony and other evidence presented by the defense, pressuring them to reach a quick guilty verdict, and even misrepresenting critical and material information to the trial judge in her campaign to remove a juror she believed to be favorable to the defense.

The jury deliberated for less than three hours before it found Murdaugh guilty of two counts of murder and two counts of using a weapon during the commission of a violent crime following six weeks of testimony.

Hill told Court TV that the allegations were untrue.

South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, whose office is prosecuting the murder and financial crimes cases against Murdaugh, has asked the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division to investigate the allegations of jury tampering.

Murdaugh took the stand in his own defense in the murder trial, and while he denied having killed his wife and son, he admitted to some financial misconduct.

He now must answer more than 100 charges in state and federal courts, from money laundering to tax evasion to bank fraud.

Prosecutors allege that one such plot involved him conspiring with Fleming to siphon off insurance settlement funds in the death of the Murdaughs' longtime housekeeper, Gloria Satterfield. Satterfield died in 2018 after what had been described as a "trip and fall accident" at the family home.

Murdaugh is accused of directing Fleming to draft checks totaling almost $3.5 million to a bank account that he used for his own personal enrichment while Satterfield's estate received none of the money, prosecutors said.

Prosecutors directly referenced Satterfield's case Thursday during Fleming's sentencing hearing. The lead attorney, Creighton Waters, pointed at Satterfield's family members who sat in the front row.

It was a shakedown," Waters said. "Plain and simple."

In August, Fleming was sentenced to almost four years in federal prison after he pleaded guilty, and he was also ordered to pay restitution and a fine. He pleaded guilty to state charges and appeared in court Thursday to face sentencing by Newman.

Fleming's defense attorney, Deborah Barbier, said her client had already admitted his guilt and was "not making excuses."

"He has stepped up the plate, he has fully admitted that he was wrong," she said.

Tony Satterfield, son of Murdaugh's housekeeper, gave a statement at Thursday's hearing along with other members of the family. He said he forgave Fleming, but that it was "up to the judge to decide."

Justin Bamberg, an attorney for other victims of Fleming and Murdaugh's alleged scheme, had harsher words for Fleming, who looked down and did not look back at the Satterfield family during the proceeding.

This is a dagger in the heart of the clients who trusted their lawyers, Bamberg said.

Bamberg asked the judge to sentence Fleming, who faced up to 195 years in prison, "firmly." Fleming ultimately received a 20-year sentence, which will run concurrently with his federal sentence. In total, he will serve about four years in a federal prison and 16 years in state prison.

Laffitte, the former CEO of Palmetto State Bank, was sentenced last month to almost six years in federal prison after he was found guilty of stealing almost $2 million from clients' legal settlements in connection with Murdaugh. Laffitte has maintained his innocence and said he would appeal.

Haylee Barber reported from Beaufort and Erik Ortiz from New York.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Former attorney Cory Fleming was sentenced to 10 years in prison on charges that he conspired with his longtime friend Alex Murdaugh to steal millions of dollars from trusting clients.

Fleming pleaded guilty last month to the financial fraud charges that stem from Murdaughs alleged scheme to steal money from the estate of his dead housekeeper Gloria Satterfield. Satterfield died in a fall on the Murdaugh property in 2018.

He was also involved in stealing money from the family of Hakeem Pinckney  a man whose family Murdaugh represented after he was killed in a car crash in 2009.

While Fleming knew Murdaugh was asking him to do wrong, he has said he didnt realise the depth of his old friends depravity.

The sentencing was handed down on the same day Flemings longtime friend Murdaugh appeared in court for his own hearing on financial fraud charges for the first time since he was sentenced to life in prison in the murders of of his wife Maggie and son Paul. Judge Clifton Newman set a trial date for 27 November.

Before handing down the sentence to Fleming on Thursday, Judge Newman told the court that leniency and mercy are not his responsibility and noted Fleming faced a total of 195 years in prison. Newman then called him to the bench where he imposed the sentence.

My heart bleeds for you because I have no doubt of the quality of human being you are ... but you must suffer the consequences of your actions, he said.

For the Satterfield case, Fleming was sentenced to five years for insurance fraud, 10 years for breach of trust, 10 years for money laundering, five years for breach of trust, five years for money laundering, five years for the computer crime.

They will run concurrently for a total of 10 years.

For the Pinckney case: 10 years, consecutive to the federal sentence hes currently serving (3 years, 10 months), concurrent to other sentences. There will be a restitution hearing at a later date.

Just minutes before he was sentenced, Fleming addressed the court, noting how he had spent many years practicing law in the very courtroom in Beaufort County.

I was aware that one bad decision or a series can have serious, irreversible consequences, he said. I offer this court no excuses, adding There are no excuses.

Fleming went on to say that he knew the consequences of what he did and placed blame on no one else.

I have profound disappointment in myself, he added.

He thanked the Satterfield and Pinckney families for their forgiveness and prayer and apologised to them again, repeating his federal court statements. He says they deserved better from him and that he failed them and feels empty from the betrayal.

He then addressed Judge Newman and said he knows he deserves punishment and will spend the rest of his life trying to apply the lessons hes learned.

This undated mugshot provided by the Richland County Detention Center shows Cory Fleming ((Richland County Detention Center via AP))

On 15 August, Fleming pleaded guilty to federal conspiracy charges and was sentenced to nearly four years (46 months) in federal prison. He is housed at the Charleston County jail awaiting a prison assignment.

On 23 August, he pleaded guilty to all state charges. Judge Newman had scheduled Flemings sentencing for today in Beaufort so that the court could hear from friends and family members, as well as victims.

At the hearing, prosecutor Creighton Waters urged the judge to not be fooled by Flemings claims that he was recruited by Murdaugh into stealing from the families of Satterfield and Pinckney.

Mr Waters argued that Fleming, who was an attorney at the time, was hired to represent the families but then behind the scenes colluded with the defendant.

What Mr Fleming wants the court to believe is that he was tricked and fooled by Mr Murdaugh like everyone else, Mr Waters said.

The prosecutor then pointed to the fake Forge scheme in which Murdaugh allegedly set up a firm called Forge  a fake company with the name of a real one, which was used to siphon off money from clients.

Murduagh and Fleming are accused of securing payouts from insurance companies in Satterfields case and then sending nearly $4m in stolen money to the fake company.

It was a shakedown, plain and simple, Mr Waters said of Fleming and Murdaughs treatment of the Satterfield family.

Defence attorney Debbie Barbier spoke for Fleming and disputed some of the details Mr Waters brought up  specifically that her client did not know Murdaugh was stealing all of the money and that he has acknowledged his guilt.

She argued that no one should be punished twice for the same crime.

At the heart of this, hes a good person who made some bad decisions, she said. We are all better than the worst thing we have ever done.

Several people from the community addressed the court, some of whom were victims or knew the victims, while others were there in support of Fleming.

Tony Satterfield, the son of Gloria Satterfield, told the court, I still forgive Mr Fleming.

Satterfields sister also addressed the court and said that the family forgives Fleming.

Gloria did not die in vain as her case brought out other corruption and dishonest misdeeds being done to others, she said, adding that it brought corruption to light.

Attorney Eric Bland, who represents the Satterfield family, spoke at the hearing and said the law profession is stained by Flemings crimes. Fleming surrendered his license to practice law in both Georgia and South Carolina, saying he dishonored the profession.

The profession we love has been stained, he said. Mr Fleming knew exactly what he was doing. He is a plaintiff lawyer... it is impossible.

He said the debacle involving Murdaugh, Fleming and Laffitte, has stained our state.

Mr Bland said the judge and court will hear how Fleming is a good guy, but that good guys can still do criminal things.

Ive been suing other lawyers for 30 years. Never seen a case where the lawyers took every single dollar. But thats what Fleming and Murdaugh did. Every single dollar.

Mr Bland also went over several examples of violations and irregularities in how Fleming handled and filed the Satterfield case to show the depth of the conspiracy and the criminal behaviour.

Gloria Satterfield died in a trip and fall at the Murdaugh home in 2018 (Provided)

Hakeem Pinckney (provided)

He says Fleming and Murdaugh sat on the $4.3m settlements knowing that Gloria Satterfields son Brian, a vulnerable adult, was being put out on the street because his moms trailer was being foreclosed on.

Mr Bland called it blatant thievery.

Fleming is the second Murdaugh associate ordered to prison since investigators began scrutinising every aspect of Murdaughs life in June 2021 after his wife and son were shot to death at their South Carolina home.

Russell Laffitte, who was convicted of federal charges in November, appeared for a status conference on Thursday in his state case.

One of his attorneys, South Carolina State Rep Todd Rutherford, asked the judge to delay a trial until the fall of 2024. Judge Newman said that he would make a ruling at a later date.

Last month, Laffitte was sentenced to seven years in prison after pleading guilty to helping Murdaugh steal money from settlements for clients after vehicle wrecks or work injuries. Laffitte is appealing his conviction and sentence.
By Cassandra Garrison

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -A UFO hearing in Mexico's congress that featured the presentation of alleged remains of non-human beings faced swift international backlash on Thursday, with critics labeling it a "stunt," and questions from officials in Peru, where the apparent specimens first emerged.

Mexican journalist and long-time UFO enthusiast Jaime Maussan showed politicians at the hearing on Tuesday two tiny "bodies" displayed in cases, with three fingers on each hand and elongated heads. He claimed they were found in Peru in 2017 and were not related to any life on Earth.

Maussan has made similar controversial claims in the past.

The images from the congressional hearing, the first of its kind in Mexico, sparked international curiosity as well as substantial scorn.

Former U.S. Navy pilot Ryan Graves, who also attended the hearing to share his personal experience with sightings of "unidentified anomalous phenomena," or UAP, heaped criticism on the presentation.

"Yesterday's demonstration was a huge step backwards for this issue," Graves said on the X social media platform, formerly known as Twitter. "I am deeply disappointed by this unsubstantiated stunt."

Graves participated in U.S. Congressional hearings on UAP in July, when he said that airspace sightings of unexplained phenomena were "grossly under-reported."

Maussan said in the presentation that the specimens were recovered near Peru's ancient Nazca Lines and had been carbon-dated by Mexico's National Autonomous University (UNAM) and concluded to be about 1,000 years old. He claimed they were not related to any species on Earth.

Similar such finds in the past have turned out to be the remains of mummified children.

Peruvian Culture Minister Leslie Urteaga said no scientific institution in the South American country had identified the remains as non-human and questioned how the specimens had left Peru.

"There is a criminal complaint from the Ministry of Culture against some people who had a relationship with these gentlemen," Urteaga told journalists late on Wednesday in reference to Maussan and his associates.

"I am going to ask for information to see what has happened ... about the removal of pre-Hispanic objects, because I understand they are part of pre-Hispanic bone remains," she added.

Maussan, speaking to Reuters on Thursday, said his critics had yet to present evidence to counter his claims.

"What they want is to take away the force that this discovery has, but only with testimonies, with questioning and without a single piece of evidence," Maussan said. "We have been doing investigations for years... they want to come here to investigate with just talk."

UNAM, in a statement republished on Wednesday that it first issued in 2017, said the work by its National Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry with Accelerators (LEMA) was only intended to determine the age of the samples. UNAM declined a request by Reuters to see the full study results or interview researchers who participated. It also declined to say how old its study had found the samples to be.

In a press conference on Thursday, NASA officials fielded questions about the Mexican presentation as they released their own report on recommendations for helping the Pentagon detect and examine UAP.

David Spergel, former head of Princeton University's astrophysics department and chair of the report, said he did not know the nature of the samples but urged transparency.

"If you have something strange, make samples available to the world's scientific community, and we'll see what's there," he said.

(Reporting by Cassandra Garrison; additional reporting by Joey Roulette in Washington and Marco Aquino in Lima; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien and Sandra Maler)
A federal judge on Wednesday denied death row inmate Anthony Sanchez an execution stay.

Sanchez, 44, is set to be executed Sept. 21 for the murder of University of Oklahoma ballerina Juli Busken. He claims he is innocent.

His new attorney, Eric Allen, of Columbus, Ohio, asked for the stay to have time to review files in the case.

U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton said he was skeptical he had the authority to issue a stay and would not even if he did.

"Petitioners argument is entirely speculative  that he might be able to identify some new issue once his new counsel looks through the case materials," the judge wrote in an order after the hearing in Oklahoma City federal court.

"That is wholly insufficient as a basis for stay."

The judge did direct the inmate's former attorneys to turn over 51 boxes of files to his new attorney. The judge on Aug. 7 had allowed the former attorneys to maintain control of the files because they contained Social Security numbers of witnesses and personal information about jurors.

Sanchez was representing himself at the time and wanted the boxes sent to him at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester. The new attorney began representing him in the federal case Aug. 22.

The Rev. Jeff Hood, left, sits outside Gov. Kevin Stitt's office after walking to the state Capitol from McAlester to deliver a letter from death row inmate Anthony Sanchez. Waiting with him is former death row inmate Paris Powell.

Anthony Sanchez writes letter to Gov. Kevin Stitt delivered by supporters

Also Wednesday, supporters of the inmate delivered a handwritten letter from him to the governor's office.

"I am 100% innocent," Sanchez wrote Gov. Kevin Stitt. "Please help me by granting a 60 day reprieve so that my new lawyers can have time to go over my case."

His spiritual adviser, Jeff Hood, walked more than 120 miles, from McAlester to Oklahoma City, to deliver the letter.

This was about people acknowledging that there are those who care about Anthony, Hood told The Oklahoman after delivering the letter. The walk wasnt just hard because it was physically hard. I felt like I was carrying Anthony with me. I felt like I had Anthony on my back, trying to show the state that, heres a human being, and Im going to continue to feel like that. Its definitely heavy.

A letter from death row inmate Anthony Sanchez to Gov. Kevin Stitt is shown at a meeting held by death penalty opponents at First Unitarian Church in Oklahoma City Tuesday.

What happened to Juli Busken?

Sanchez was convicted of first-degree murder at a 2006 trial after being identified as a suspect by his DNA.

The victim was shot in the head at Lake Stanley Draper after being abducted from a Norman apartment complex early Dec. 20, 1996, and raped. She was 21.

The victim was taken after driving a friend to the airport. She had completed her courses at OU and had packed to return to her parents' home in Arkansas and enroll in graduate school.

Sanchez had to give up a sample of his DNA when he went to prison in Oklahoma in 2002 for second-degree burglary. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation got a "hit" to the DNA evidence in the Busken case in 2004.

The odds that match was a mistake are 1 in 200 trillion Caucasians, 1 in 20 quadrillion African Americans and 1 in 94 trillion Southwest Hispanics, Attorney General Gentner Drummond and his assistants told the judge in a legal brief Tuesday.

Sanchez lost his latest challenge to his conviction in April when the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals ruled 5-0 against him. He claimed in the new challenge his father had confessed to the murder before committing suicide last year.

The OSBI concluded the father was not the killer after conducting more DNA tests in February. The OSBI did the testing after getting a sample of the father's blood from the medical examiner's office, which had investigated his death.

Sanchez is scheduled to be put to death by lethal injection at 10 a.m. Sept. 21 at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary. He waived his clemency hearing before the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board.

Contributing: Staff writer Jessie Christopher Smith

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Anthony Sanchez, Oklahoma death row inmate, denied execution stay
An 11-month-old boy was found in Juarez after his father allegedly kidnapped him from the infant's mother and stole her car in Central El Paso, authorities said.

An Amber Alert was issued Wednesday afternoon by the El Paso Police Department asking for the public's help locating the baby, Amir De La Luz, and the father, Ariel De La Luz.

Ariel De La Luz and Amir were found in Juarez. The father was taken into custody.

The Mexico municipal police assisted in the effort, El Paso police officials confirmed Wednesday evening.

Ariel De La Luz was last seen wearing a black shirt, black sweatpants and white shoes.

El Paso police are working with Mexican authorities to reunite the child with his mother.

Ariel De La Luz went to the baby's mother's home, which is located in the 4400 Block of La Luz Avenue in Central El Paso, about 7:15 a.m. seeking to visit Amir, El Paso Police Department officials said.

While the mother, whose name was not released, was momentarily distracted, Ariel De La Luz allegedly fled with the child and stole the mother's vehicle, officials said.

Amir De La Luz was last seen wearing a diaper.

More: 'It will be your last show': Mexican cartel threatens Peso Pluma in Tijuana

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Amber Alert issued for boy allegedly abducted by father
Top American and Cuban officials met this week in Washington to discuss migration and other issues in a previously undisclosed meeting ahead of the expected visit of Cubas handpicked president to participate in a gathering at the United Nations in New York.

The U.S. Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Brian A. Nichols, met with Cuban Vice Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio on Monday to discuss human rights, migration, and other issues of bilateral interest, a State Department spokesperson told the Miami Herald.

Fernandez de Cossio traveled to the United States to work on planning Cuban leader Miguel Diaz-Canels trip to New York. Diaz-Canel is expected to attend several events at the United Nations and speak to foreign leaders at the General Assembly next week. On Tuesday, Fernandez de Cossio gave a talk about the prospects for the normalization of relations between Cuba and the United States at the Institute for Policy Studies in Washington, DC.

Relations between the two countries remain cold, as the Biden administration has sanctioned several Cuban military and police agencies and officials for human-rights violations and has kept in place other measures imposed by Donald Trump, including listing Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism.

High-level engagements between the two countries are rare and tied to U.S. national security issues such as migration or counter-narcotics efforts.

Cubas support for the Russian invasion of Ukraine is another irritant in the relationship. Cubas ambassador to Moscow said Thursday the Cuban government would not stop residents on the island from enlisting in the Russian army to fight in Ukraine if they sign a contract and do it legally, despite earlier assurances Cuba would not allow its citizens to be recruited as mercenaries.

The State Department official did not say if the issue came up during the Monday meeting but said the administration is aware of reports about Cubans fighting for Russia and is monitoring the situation.
American researcher Mark Dickey is carried in a stretcher after being pulled out of Morca cave near Anamur, south Turkey, on early Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, more than a week after he became seriously ill 1,000 meters (more than 3,000 feet) below its entrance. Teams from across Europe had rushed to Morca cave in southern Turkey's Taurus Mountains to aid Dickey, a 40-year-old experienced caver who became seriously ill on Sept. 2 with stomach bleeding. (Mert Gokhan Koc/Dia Images via AP)

ISTANBUL (AP)  An American researcher who spent 11 days stuck in a Turkish cave after falling ill said Thursday that he thought he would die there before a complex international rescue operation got him out.

Mark Dickey, 40, appeared relaxed as he spoke to reporters at a hospital in Mersin, southern Turkey, where he is recovering from his ordeal.

Asked if he ever gave up hope while trapped 1,000 meters (more than 3,000 feet) underground, Dickey replied, No. But theres a difference between accurately recognizing your current risk against giving up.

You dont let things become hopeless, but you recognize the fact that Im going to die.

Dickey fell ill on Sept. 2 with stomach bleeding while mapping the Morca cave in southern Turkeys Taurus Mountains. He vomited blood and had lost large amounts of it and other fluids by the time rescuers brought him to the surface on Tuesday.

What caused his condition, which rendered him too frail to climb out of the cave on his own, remained unclear.

Dressed in a blue T-shirt and with an IV line plug attached to his hand, the experienced caver from Croton-on-Hudson, New York, thanked the Turkish government for acting quickly, decisively to get the medical supplies needed to sustain him down into the cave.

He also praised the international effort to save him. Teams from Turkey and several European countries mounted a challenging operation that involved pulling him up the caves steep vertical sections and navigating through mud and cold water in the horizontal ones.

Rescuers had to widen some of the caves narrow passages, install ropes to pull him up shafts on a stretcher and set up temporary camps along the way before the operation could begin. Medical personnel treated and monitored Dickey as teams comprised of a doctor and three to four other rescuers took turns staying by his side at all times.

This honestly was an amazing rescue, Dickey, who also is an experienced underground rescuer, said. This was an amazing example of international collaboration, of what we can do together as a country, as a world.

Commenting on the insane public focus on his rescue, he added: I really am blessed to be alive. Its been a tough time. While I was trapped underground  I was trapped for 11 days  I learned that I had a nation watching, hoping, praying that I would survive: Turkey.

In a later interview with ABC's Good Morning America show, Dickey recalled the moment he cleared the cave's entrance. I was happy to get to the surface and see those stars and smell the fresh air. That was a good moment, he said.

He also paid tribute to fiancee Jessica Van Ord, who accompanied him on the expedition and left to obtain medical products that could be administered in the cave. She made the climb out, she made the climb back in with the medical supplies, Dickey told the broadcaster. The second she came into that cave camp at a thousand meters with four bags worth of fluid, that was a game changer.

She saved my life, period," he continued. "She is one hell of a woman, one hell of a caver, one hell of a rescuer, one hell of a paramedic. She's awesome.

Dickey will continue his recovery at Mersin City Hospital. Laughing and joking during his brief media conference on Thursday, he said he would definitely continue to explore caves.

Theres risk in all life and in this case, the medical emergency that occurred was completely unpredicted and unknown, and it was a one-off, he said, adding that he would love to return to Morca cave, Turkeys third deepest, to complete his task.

Around 190 people from Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, Poland and Turkey took part in the rescue, including doctors, paramedics and experienced cavers.

The Italian National Alpine and Speleological Corps said the rescue operation took more than 100 rescuers from around 10 counties a total of 60 hours and that Dickey was in the cave for roughly 500 hours.
Mark Dickey, an American researcher who was rescued after being trapped in a Turkish cave, described in an interview Thursday how he survived the ordeal.

Theres not that much that you tell yourself. You kind of just survive, Dickey told Michael Strahan during an appearance on ABCs Good Morning America.

Dickey was left in the cave after his fiancee, Jessica Van Ord, left his side to find medical help.

Ive got a pretty significant medical background for emergencies, Dickey added. And it was really just making sure that everyone that was with me, took care of me and, you know, watching out for decreased pulse, decreased blood volume, transition into a shock position if I needed to and like kind of prolong everything as long as I could.

Dickey said he started to believe hed make it out alive when his fiancee returned to the cave with medical supplies, and noted how other cavers on site also helped out with his eventual rescue.

The moment the full rescue got there, this was  I knew I would get to the surface, Dickey said.

But uh, it was fast, it was really fast. Once we started moving it, it happened a lot faster than I expected. So I was  man, I was happy to get to the surface and see those stars and smell the fresh air, and that was a good moment.

Dickey was trapped in the Morca Cave for 10 days before Turkish authorities rescued him. Dickey, 40, began to experience stomach bleeding and was too frail to climb out of the cave himself.

The Speleological Federation of Turkey said in a post on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, that Dickey was extracted from the cave early Monday morning. They called the operation a successful one. Rescue crews across Europe helped out in the rescue mission.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
By Josh Smith

SEOUL (Reuters) - Whatever practical cooperation emerges from this week's summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un , their deepening relationship is aimed at sending their rivals a warning, analysts said.

Calling each other "comrade", the men toasted their friendship on Wednesday after Putin showed Kim around Russia's most modern space launch facility and they held talks alongside their defence ministers.

The two countries have an interest in demonstrating that, despite their geopolitical isolation, they have partners they can call on. And both seek to weaken U.S.-led sanctions and pressure campaigns, against Russia over the war in Ukraine and against North Korea for its nuclear weapons and missile programs, analysts said.

"Putin and Kim would both gain from a transactional bargain but they would also gain geopolitically by giving off the impression that their nuclear-armed countries are cooperating militarily and sending a warning about potential consequences to Americas allies and like-minded partners that support Ukraine," said Duyeon Kim, of the Center for a New American Security.

"Kim would also be signalling to Washington, Seoul and Tokyo that Russia has his back in Northeast Asia."

Both Russia and North Korea have denied U.S. claims that they plan to provide each other with weapons, but the leaders promised to deepen defence cooperation, and Putin said Russia would help the North build satellites.

If they simply wanted a secret arms deal, the two leaders did not have to meet in person, said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul.

"Putin and Kims diplomatic display is meant to claim success in challenging the U.S.-led international order, avoiding over-reliance on China, and increasing pressure on rivals in Ukraine and South Korea," he said.

Discussions of any open violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions on North Korea would signal that major international agencies will be paralysed, said Andrei Lankov, a Korea expert at Seoul's Kookmin University.

The summit is an indicator that North Korea-related Security Council resolutions are dead, as are all attempts to stop North Korea or penalise it for having a nuclear program, he said.

"It creates an important precedent that is likely to be used not only by Russia but pretty much every major international player that if you don't like a UNSC resolution you just ignore it," Lankov said.

UKRAINE FACTOR

Lankov also said that Russia may be unlikely to provide North Korea with advanced technology that it could eventually lose control of. But its "excessive" signalling at defence cooperation allows it to send a strong message to South Korea not to directly provide military aid to Ukraine, he said.

Despite pressure from Kyiv and Washington, South Korea has only given Ukraine non-lethal aid, sold massive numbers of weapons to neighbouring Poland, and provided the United States with artillery shells to fill dwindling reserves, while insisting it has no plans to provide lethal aid.

If Russia, North Korea and China feel that they are threatened, it makes sense they would seek to support each other through partnerships or even alliances to counter the United States. But each country has a limited history of making such relationships work, said Mason Richey, a professor at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies in Seoul.

"It's just difficult for me to imagine that Xi Jinping and Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin can trust each other enough for a real long term concerted alliance formation," he said. "It might be in their interest... [but] it's just difficult for dictators to cooperate with each other."

(Reporting by Josh Smith; Editing by Angus MacSwan)
Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., talks to reporters about avoiding a government shutdown and launching an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden, following a closed-door meeting with fellow Republicans at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Angry, frustrated and unable to lead a fractured and unruly Republican majority, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on Thursday told the colleagues threatening to oust him: Do it.

The embattled Republican leader essentially dared his hard-right flank to quit holding the risk of a vote to remove him from the job.

If youre going to do it, go ahead and try, McCarthy told the Republicans behind closed doors.

File the f- motion, McCarthy said, using a profanity for emphasis, according to those in the private meeting.

With a government shutdown looming, McCarthy is confronting the same stubborn problem that has driven Republicans before him from the speakers job  trying to lead a ruptured GOP majority that's split between whats left of the traditional party and a harder-right element largely allied with former President Donald Trump.

Even his decision to launch an impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden did little this week to appease the demands of the Freedom Caucus and others as they threaten to shut down the government in pursuit of deep spending cuts or move to a motion to oust him from office.

I showed frustration in here because I am frustrated with some people in the conference, McCarthy said after the meeting in the Capitol basement as lawmakers were wrapping up for the week.

But when we come back, were going to get this done. Nobody wins in a government shutdown.

This may be the toughest moment yet for McCarthy who is trying to survive his first year as House speaker and live to fight another day.

But now, after promises made and possibly dashed, he has barely any days left.

At the moment McCarthy has just nine working days to pass the spending bills needed to fund the government or risk a politically devastating federal shutdown.

An interruption in government services would ripple across the country, almost certain to hurt his party politically as Republicans are blamed for the disruption and disarray.

Biden said in a speech Thursday that McCarthy and House Republicans seem unable to honor the commitments they made as part of a June debt-limit deal and are now seeking deeper cuts. In his remarks, the president did not address the impeachment inquiry nor the indictment Thursday of his son, Hunter, on gun-purchasing charges.

Theyre back at it again, breaking their commitment, Biden said in Maryland. Threatening to shut down the government again this month.

Led by Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida, a core group of McCarthy critics is holding the threat of removal over him unless he meets conservative demands.

A top Trump ally, Gaetz reiterated the conservative flank's many demands after McCarthy's meeting  single-subject spending bills, a subpoena for Hunter Biden in the impeachment inquiry and other priorities.

So instead of emotionally cursing, let's do this, Gaetz chided. We must begin immediately. Pull yourself together, Kevin!

None of the hard-right opponents of McCarthy rose to speak during the private morning meeting  in fact, few even showed up.

But McCarthy still addressed them directly  and profanely.

Kevin doesnt live in fear about this," said Rep. Brian Mast, R-Fla.

McCarthy has prided himself being a survivor, who rose from the ranks over the past nearly 20 years to lead House Republicans.

At the start of the year, he suffered through 14 votes in his reach for the speaker's gavel before colleagues finally agreed to give it to him on the 15th vote.

Top McCarthy ally Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene who is also close with Trump recaptured the speaker's message. He said, If you want to throw in a motion to vacate, thats fine. I didnt survive 15 rounds for nothing and Ill survive another 15 rounds.

That said, there still is no viable plan or having the House pass the bills needed to run the government by Sept. 30, when current funding runs out, risking the shutdown.

Freedom Caucus conservatives are demanding cuts lower than what McCarthy agreed to in a budget deal with Biden earlier this year - and even lower than the speaker promised he would fight for when he agreed to their demands during his election to become speaker.

It's not just Trump influencing House Republicans from the campaign trail. Republican rival Ron DeSantis has also connected with conservatives and is supportive of us trying to fight to get change up here, said Freedom Caucus member Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said, House Republicans have made clear that they are determined to shut down the government and try to jam their extreme right-wing ideology down the throats of Americans.

Jeffries said he had not talked to McCarthy this week about a solution, but he has spoken with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and they have agreed the only way forward is a bipartisan path that funds the government at the current fiscal year levels.

The Senate meanwhile, which is narrowly controlled by Democrats, pushed ahead with a rare and overwhelmingly bipartisan vote, 91-7, to advance a package of spending bills toward final passage  until it was stalled by Senate conservatives.

And now all of a sudden, you have a group, a small group in the Senate, trying to mimic the Freedom Caucus in the House," Schumer said, calling on Republican leaders to intervene for the good of the country.

McCarthy told the lawmakers to go home for the weekend  they are not in session Friday for the Jewish holiday  and be prepared to stay in session next week until they get the job done.

I dont walk away from a battle," the speaker said, preparing to return to fight another day.

Asked if he had a plan for the week ahead, McCarthy said later: I always have a plan. Doesn't mean it happens."

"I had a plan for this week, didnt turn out exactly as I had planned, he said.

Exasperated, McCarthy had already showed signs of strain the night before.

As he left the Capitol, his voice hoarse and his dry-cleaning bags of fresh shirts in hand, McCarthy scoffed when asked about the conservatives' latest demands for spending cuts.

Welcome to my world, McCarthy said, as the grand Memorial Door slammed behind him.

__ Associated Press writers Kevin Freking, Stephen Groves, Josh Boak and Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report.
An Ankeny woman whose 2-year-old child was hospitalized with "severe malnutrition" has been sentenced to probation.

Toshia Bruckner, 28, was charged in April with child endangerment and neglect of a dependent person. According to court filings, Bruckner's child was admitted for extended hospitalization at Blank Children's Hospital weighing only 15.5 lbs, putting the infant in the bottom 0.1% of children in that age range.

Court records show Bruckner pleaded guilty to both charges in July, in a deal with prosecutors to avoid prison. On Wednesday, she was sentenced by Judge Jeffrey Farrell to five years of probation in lieu of a 15-year suspended prison term.

She also was fined nearly $1,400, and ordered to take parenting classes, among other terms of her probation.

More: Iowa child care provider charged in the death of a nearly 2-year-old boy

It's not clear from court records what the current status is of Bruckner's child. A no-contact order between Bruckner and the infant is in place until 2028, court records show.

A county attorney's office spokesperson declined to comment on the status of Bruckner's parental rights, citing state confidentiality law.

Bruckner's attorney did not return a message seeking comment.

William Morris covers courts for the Des Moines Register. He can be contacted at wrmorris2@registermedia.com, 715-573-8166 or on Twitter at @DMRMorris.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa mother gets probation for child neglect in starving toddler case
Throughout his career in medicine, David Yang, 32, says hes acutely felt the impacts of his race. A Chinese American emergency medicine fellow at the Yale School of Medicine, Yang said hes had slurs hurled at him by patients, faced racist comments tying him to Covid, and has been confused with his Asian colleagues.

He knew there were others who shared his experience, but he said meaningful research on the subject of anti-Asian racism in the medical field just didnt exist. So he put forth his own study, and surveyed two dozen medical students.

What he found confirmed his suspicions, he said. Across Asian American groups, medical students reported experiencing racism frequently  and they said their schools didnt do much to stop it.

The conversations, the microaggressions, the discrimination that I had experienced were very much echoed, Yang told NBC News. All the participants I spoke to generally felt unsupported by the medical school, and felt that bringing it up would be costly for their medical training.

A Pakistani American medical student who was surveyed told Yang that an attending physician in charge of him once made an Islamophobic joke at his expense in front of patients, saying, Hes gonna get his buddies from the Taliban to come after you.

For Asian women in the medical field, racism and sexism can both play a role in the way theyre treated in a clinical setting. One participant described a patient telling her, Youre so pretty. Youre like a China doll.

Anti-Asian rhetoric around Covid-19 has added another layer of racism for Asian medical students to push through on a daily basis, Yang said. When he was an intern, he was advised by his attending not to see a patient who came into the ER and had a negative reaction after an Asian-appearing person had coughed near them, he said.

For those surveyed, the discrimination has been overt. One Filipino American med student said a patients parent once complained, I dont want that [Asian] nurse taking care of my child because I dont want my kid to get coronavirus.

Other stories mirrored Yangs experiences of mistaken identity. Students have even had their grades and reviews swapped, he said.

Were supposed to have these mentors for small groups that we stick with for four years, and it took one of them the whole first year to be able to tell me apart from the other East Asian guy there, one participant said.

Compounding the pain inflicted is a lack of support structures for Asian medical students, Yang found. Many surveyed said they didnt know where to turn for help or were shut down when they expressed concern to their schools officials. I dont know what it means to have this part of my identity supported, a participant said.

Similar studies have found that other minority medical professionals face a similar landscape when trying to get jobs and in their daily interactions at work. One report detailed the experiences of Black doctors, finding that they are often marginalized at work and in recruitment processes but used as tokens for diversity initiatives.

Black physicians and advocacy organizations told The Associated Press that bias is augmented by the stress of a medical environment.

Too many of us are worried about retaliation, what happens when you say something, Dr. Rachel Villanueva, president of the National Medical Association, which represents Black doctors, told the AP last year. We have scores of doctors that are sending us letters about these same discriminatory practices all the time and seeking our help as an association in fighting that.

In the emergency room, Yang says hearing slurs from agitated patients has become a common part of his work life. But, as a doctor, he says his only option is to bear it and continue doing his job.

These racial slurs happen, unfortunately, quite often, he said. But you kind of have to let that go and really focus on prioritizing patient care.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
The View hosts went after House Speaker Kevin McCarthy after he announced that a formal impeachment inquiry would be launched to investigate President Joe Biden .

Speaker McCarthy announced that decision on Tuesday to investigate Bidens conduct as allegations of corruption against the presidents family continue to circulate.

The View host Sunny Hostin (left), House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (center), The View host Joy Behar (right). (Photos: Twitter)

McCarthy hasnt received enough House votes to move ahead with the inquiry, however, he launched the inquiry with the Republican chairs of a few congressional committees at the helm.

I am directing our House committees to open a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. Over the past several months, House Republicans have uncovered serious and credible allegations into President Bidens conducta culture of corruption. https://t.co/3uoDlUB3Sy  Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) September 12, 2023

The House speaker has faced pressure over the past several weeks from his Republican peers in Congress to start an impeachment process against the president in order to gain access to records and documents that would implicate Biden in his son Hunters business dealings.

The investigation into Hunter Biden s foreign deals and partnerships is still underway and is of interest to many GOP operatives. They believe Biden might have used his power as vice president to bolster his sons deals and are pinning that accusation on him without sufficient evidence.

House Republicans have been investigating the President for 9 months, and they've turned up no evidence of wrongdoing



His own GOP members have said so



He vowed to hold a vote to open impeachment, now he flip flopped because he doesn't have support



Extreme politics at its worst  Ian Sams (@IanSams46) September 12, 2023

The New York Times reported that for weeks, Trump has been cozying up with conservative members of the House Freedom Caucus and other GOP congressmen to press them to commence an impeachment initiative against Biden.

Trump has also reportedly inquired about what it would take to clear his own impeachment record. The embattled former president was impeached twice while in office.

Reacting to news of the inquiry, the hosts on The View went on the offensive Wednesday and attacked McCarthys decision.

Is there anything more pathetic than this Kevin McCarthy, who is beholden to the dumbest wing in his party? Joy Behar asked her fellow cohosts.

I think theres impropriety related to Bidens involvement with Hunter. I think theres been some misrepresentations. He said Hunter never made money from China. He said he never met with any of his Ukrainian business partners, political strategist Alyssa Farah Griffin remarked but also stated that the inquiry would be dead on arrival in the Senate.

WATCH THE VIEW HOSTS HERE.

Sunny Hostin agreed with Griffins sentiment, stating her belief that Hunter Biden showed off his connections to his father from time to time during his work with China and Ukraine.

Theres no way political influence wasnt a part of that. I dont like nepotism across the board, Hostin said. What is upsetting to me is that Kevin McCarthy and this right-wing Republican party is trivializing what impeachment is.

Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz threatened to introduce a motion to vacate McCarthy in order to remove him from his position as House speaker if he didnt launch the inquiry.

Even Georgia Rep. Marjorie Greene Taylor threatened to not vote on a temporary spending measure thats in the works to keep the government open if an inquiry wasnt opened. She filed official articles of impeachment the day Biden was sworn in in 2021.
A federal appeals court has agreed to expedite consideration of former President Trumps argument that he has absolute presidential immunity from a defamation lawsuit brought by writer E. Jean Carroll .

The ruling will likely enable the court to weigh in on the issue before Carroll is set to take Trump to trial in January over his statements denying the longtime advice columnists accusations that he raped her in the mid-1990s.

In Tuesdays ruling, the panel also declined the former presidents request to pause the case from moving ahead until the appeals court issues its decision.

A federal judge previously determined that Trump could not assert absolute presidential immunity in the case, a major blow to his defense.

It is one of two lawsuits Carroll has brought against the former president.

A jury already found Trump liable for the sexual assault itself in Carrolls other case, where presidential immunity did not come into play since the accusations were before and after Trumps time in the White House. He is separately appealing that verdict.

A judge has since ruled that the verdict makes Trump automatically liable in Carrolls other lawsuit, which has not yet gone to trial. She is suing him for denying her story when she first came forward in June 2019.

With Trump already being found liable, the trial will only be held to determine how much Trump must pay Carroll in damages.

The civil trial is set to begin Jan. 15, the same day as the Republican Iowa caucuses.

It is one of many legal battles facing the former president as he attempts to secure a return to the White House in 2024.

Trump is set to go on two other civil trials in October and January related to his businesses. He also faces four criminal indictments, with trials scheduled throughout the spring.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
On a largely party-line vote, the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday advanced the nomination of April Perry to be the next U.S. attorney in Chicago, marking a crucial step to becoming the first-ever woman to hold the high-profile position.

Perrys selection, which was announced by President Joe Biden three months ago, was among a dozen federal nominations to be considered at an executive meeting of the Judiciary Committee, which is chaired by Democratic Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin .

Durbin began the hearing by saying that the junior senator from Ohio, Republican J.D. Vance, had announced his intention to block Perrys nomination as part of his ongoing protest of the indictment of former President Donald Trump by a special counsel Jack Smith.

If (Attorney General) Merrick Garland wants to use these officials to harass Joe Bidens political opponents, we will grind his department to a halt, Vance said in a statement earlier this year.

Vance does not sit on the Judiciary Committee so any influence he has would come during a debate on nominees before the full Senate.

Durbin noted Thursday that leaving U.S. attorneys posts vacant has real implications on the Justice Departments ability to prosecute violent drug cartels and other important work that keeps us safe.

Find another way to protest, Durbin said.

The committee then voted 12-9 to advance Perrys nomination for a full Senate vote, a process that could take several more weeks.

In a written statement after the vote, Durbin said fellow Illinois Sen. Tammy Duckworth , also a Democrat, said they were pleased with the vote for Perry, who brings strong qualifications and a wealth of experience from her time in the U.S. Attorneys Office and in the private sector to the position.

While we would hope for quick consideration of Ms. Perrys nomination by the full Senate, one Republican Senator continues to hold up Department of Justice nominees, including critical federal law enforcement officerswho prosecute violent crime, terrorism, and crimes against childrenfrom being quickly confirmed, the statement read. If the Republican Party was really the party of law and order, they would release their holds and allow these law enforcement officers to be confirmed without delay.

A spokesperson for Vance was not immediately available for comment.

Perry, a former assistant U.S. attorney in Chicago, was one of two finalists for the position announced earlier this year by Durbin and Duckworth after a screening process that began when then-U.S. Attorney John Lausch announced his plan to step down.

If confirmed, Perry would be the first woman to hold the position of Chicagos top federal prosecutor.

Perry is currently the senior counsel for global investigations and fraud and abuse prevention at Chicago-based GE HealthCare. Previously, she worked for 12 years as a federal prosecutor in Chicago, and for a time was a coordinator for various programs that concentrated on violence against women, hate crimes and civil rights.

While with the U.S. attorneys office, she prosecuted television pitchman Kevin Trudeau on allegations that he made deceptive TV commercials, a crime that led to a 10-year federal prison sentence for Trudeau.

Perry left the U.S. attorneys office to work as chief ethics officer for Cook County States Attorney Kim Foxx. She left the office while Foxxs administration was under scrutiny for abruptly dismissing charges against Empire actor Jussie Smollett.

A special prosecutor later took up the case, and Smollett was found guilty of filing a false police report for falsely reporting to be a victim of a hate crime.

The U.S. attorneys office in Chicago is one of the busiest in the nation, handling everything from terrorism, gang conspiracies and bank robberies to financial fraud and political corruption. The office has more than 300 employees, including about 130 prosecutors and more than two dozen attorneys who focus on civil litigation.

In addition to her law practice, Perry has also served as a hearing officer for the Chicago Police Board, a panel that decides whether Chicago cops should be fired for disciplinary infractions.

She received a bachelors and law degrees from Northwestern University.

Lausch left the U.S. attorneys office March 11 after more than five years at the helm of some of the citys most high-profile investigations, including racketeering probes of ex-Ald. Edward Burke and former House Speaker Michael Madigan.

____
When Silicon Valley Bank imploded in March, Sam Heshmati wasnt naive enough to think that First Republic Bank -- where he had worked for more than a decade and helped launch their startup practice -- wouldnt be affected.

He recalls watching everything unfold at his former employer with both sadness and surprise.

When SVB went into receivership, it was a very sad day for all of us. I had spent eight years in total there. I knew a lot of people there, and just felt really, really bad, Heshmati told TechCrunch in an interview. Plus, SBV did a lot for the ecosystem.

But Heshmati didn't have time to linger long on SVB's downfall. As First Republic's then-managing director and head of venture banking, he soon had to turn his attention to helping First Republic meet a surge in demand, a surge that began as soon as the regional banking crisis kicked off on March 10.

At the time, Heshmati was at a sales conference for First Republic in San Francisco, along with executive management. I think everybodys phones started to get dinged almost at the same time and many of us were hearing, I need new accounts at First Republic or Theres a bit of a situation and we need a potential place to move our money, recounts Heshmati. The first step in the emotional roller coaster was that we went all hands on deck.

He added: Everybody was quickly trying to figure out how do we support this type of new account opening at scale, with this type of volume coming in...without comprising any of our compliance.

The initial reaction from some people was excitement over so many new accounts. But Heshmati knew better.

I remember walking through the lobby and seeing one particular person who had a smile on their face, thinking about the business opportunity that existed here. But I dont think that person had ever spent any time at SVB or really understood the role they played in the ecosystem. And I remember looking at the person and saying, This is not good.

Image Credits: Sam Heshmati/Citizens Bank

Indeed, it was a matter of days before First Republic itself became part of the contagion and the bank's team went from opening new accounts to figuring out how to weather its own storm as the impact of Silicon Valley Banks fate began spilling over into other banks in the sector.

It was an emotional roller coaster, Heshmati says. First Republic had been performing well year-over-year. Its stock was doing well. Many on the team were surprised that their bank was suddenly in trouble, too.

While SVBs series of events happened really quickly, on the First Republic side of the house, it took a few weeks, he said. It was pretty difficult because there were moments where you looked at it and said, We're gonna get through this,' and then there were moments that we didnt know.

Ultimately, First Republic too collapsed and JPMorgan ended up buying the receivership it went into. Heshmati was soon offered a role at JPMorgan. But he declined the offer. In trying to determine his next steps, he said he spoke to more than a dozen banks.

Heshmati ended up taking on a role at Citizens Bank, where he is now working to build the financial institutions new venture banking practice from scratch. For context, Providence, Rhode Island-based Citizens has $22 billion in assets under management (AUM) and $177.7 billion in deposits. Its total assets were $223.1 billion as of June 30.

I did due diligence on the different banks, ranging from strength of balance sheet, size of the bank, commitment to the [startup] sector, he said. But Citizens just stood out. They checked every single box.

The bank, Heshmati said, seemed the most committed to building on what First Republic had started.

I wanted somebody else to be really, really excited about it, and never to be put in a situation where I felt like they were accommodating me, he said. There were really, really bullish -- Citizens demonstrated that excitement right out the gate.

Heshmati joined Citizens Bank as head of emerging VC and innovation banking in July, helping create a new division there, called Citizens Private Bank, that is essentially adopting First Republics operating model.

Our goal is pretty simple -- to be the go to bank for the innovation sector, he said. Part of what Ive learned since the events of March 10 and the downfall of SVB and First Republic is that a lot of people have gone to different platforms but they look and feel a whole lot different than perhaps what SVB and FRB represented for so many years.

He added: Were looking to bring that level of familiarity back as part of this next chapter.

Citizens wants to take things a step further by integrating cash management solutions into the practice.

We're living in a post-crisis environment and banking where founders and investors are going to look at cash management differently than they did before. Theyre asking, Where do you keep it? How do you mitigate risk?," Heshmati said. And so we've already put together a suite of solutions that allow companies and firms to come in and address that. We don't want to ignore the elephant in the room. We want to offer the solutions to help give them what they need to get comfortable.

Citizens new practice is open for business, although Heshmati acknowledges it will take some time to ramp up.

Heshmati is not the only former First Republic employee to join Citizens. Much of his team joined as well. In June, when Citizens announced the acceleration of its private banking growth strategy, it also announced 150 new hires, including teams formerly with First Republic, according to Brendan Coughlin, vice chair and head of consumer banking at Citizens.

After the disruption in March 2023, it became clear the market is more fragmented than ever, and founders and VCs are having a difficult time trying to identify the right long-term home, he told TechCrunch via email. With Sam and his team, we want to step in and fill the gap by creating the new go to bank for the startup and venture ecosystem.

As part of the new division, Citizens is also opening a West Coast office.

Scale matters in new footprints, and the ability to hire a large and incredibly talented team at once was very attractive and became an obvious next step, Coughlin added.

Expanding into California has always been part of Citizens strategic plan, said Coughlin. Those plans included its acquisition of JMP Securities in November 2021. But in this case, the speed in which it moved was opportunistic. Similarly, Citizens has had a private equity practice for some time, where it worked with much larger funds, noted Coughlin. But with the demise of both SVB and FRB, Citizens saw opportunity in serving the startup and VC community.

VC financing plays an essential role in U.S. innovation, and with the collapse of SVB and FRB, which had generally dominated the mid-tier VC space, it left a huge void, he said. Its similar to the geography piece -- a venture-focused practice was always something we considered pursuing as part of our strategic roadmapit was a natural fit for us to not only establish this practice and innovate as a company, but also bank the innovation economy and support the growth of young companies.

In addition to Citizens existing San Francisco office space for JMP, the bank is planning to selectively add points of physical presence with offices for its new private bankers, as well as customer-facing locations to connect the private equity and venture banking relationship with loan programs and wealth management for the GP/LP partner community.

Want more fintech news in your inbox? Sign up for The Interchange here.
Having an Army combat vehicle named for you is a great honor. Legendary soldiers like Gen. George Patton and Gen. Creighton Abrams have main battle tanks named after them; the M2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle is named for Gen. Omar Bradley. In naming its latest combat vehicle, the Army honored heroic two soldiers; one from WWII and one from Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The M10 was developed from the Griffin II (GDLS)

On June 28, 2022, General Dynamics Land Systems won the Army's Mobile Protected Firepower competition with its Griffin II armored fighting vehicle. Adamant that the MPF is not a tank, the Army is slated to procure 504 of the vehicles and disseminate them to light divisions. Similar to how light tanks were used during WWII, the MPF is designed to provide armor protection and increased firepower to light infantry units while being able to keep up with their fast rate of movement. The MPF has a top speed of 45 mph and is armed with a 105mm tank gun, a .50-caliber M2 machine gun and a 7.62mm M240B machine gun.

The M10 features a crew of four: a driver, commander, gunner and loader (U.S. Army)

On June 10, 2023, during the Army's 248th birthday celebration at the National Museum of the U.S. Army at Fort Belvoir , the MPF was formally designated the M10 Booker Combat Vehicle. "The M10 is the Armys newest combat vehicle and is one of the 24 new systems that we are putting in the hands of Soldiers in 2023," said Army Chief of Staff Gen. James McConville. "We have been consistent and persistent in our modernization priorities, and we are delivering."

Pvt. Booker hailed from Nebraska (U.S. Army)

The new M10 is named after Private Robert Booker, who joined the Army in June 1942. Upon completion of basic training, he was assigned to the 34th Infantry Division and took part in the North Africa campaign. On April 9, 1943, during a battle near Fondouk, Tunisia, Booker moved a machine gun and box of ammo across nearly 200 yards of open field. Upon reaching an advantageous position, he set up the gun and returned fire at the enemy. Booker was shot but continued to man his weapon, eliminating an enemy machine gun position. Engaging a second enemy machine gun, he was shot again. Losing blood, Booker continued to direct his squad's fire until he succumbed to his wounds. For his heroism and sacrifice, Booker was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor .

Staff Sgt. Booker is the first post-9/11 soldier to have a vehicle named after him (U.S. Army)

The M10 is also named for Staff Sgt. Stevon Booker who enlisted in the Army in 1987. He served in Operation Desert Storm and, with the 3rd Infantry Division, Operation Iraqi Freedom . On April 5, 2003, during the Thunder Run armored attack into Baghdad, Booker's platoon came under heavy small arms and RPG fire. Taking charge, he communicated the situation to his chain of command and organized the platoon's reaction to contact. When his machine gun malfunctioned, Booker exposed himself on top of his tank in the prone position and continued to return fire. Despite withering enemy fire, he directed and coordinated the defense of the platoon's flank and destroyed an enemy vehicle. Without cover, Booker fought off the enemy for five miles until he was fatally wounded. He was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his heroic actions.

The M10 is designed to support light units (U.S. Army)

Fittingly, the M10 is designed to provide light infantry soldiers with additional protection and firepower that both men could have taken advantage of. "The M10 Booker Combat Vehicle is named in [their] honor because it will accomplish what they both did  enabling squads to continue pushing forward through heavy machine-gun fire while protecting our most important weapon system: our Soldiers," said Gen. McConville. The first 33 M10s will be delivered to the 82nd Airborne Division in FY25.
Athens-Clarke police believe an Athens teenager maliciously shot a womans pet dog recently while the dog was standing in the owners front yard.

The teen asserted the shooting was simply an accident.

The shooting occurred about 4 p.m. Saturday on Kentucky Circle in east Athens, where the dog owners and her roommate were outside and they observed someone shooting a BB rifle from a second-floor balcony of a nearby apartment, according to the police report.

The man fired the gun a couple of times, before a third shot hit the dog, named Mia, in the left hip, causing the dog to yelp in pain, the report shows.

The 20-year-old woman confronted the man, who denied shooting the BB gun. After police arrived, an officer had a difficult time getting the suspect to come out of the apartment, but when he finally did, he admitted to accidentally shooting the dog.

The teen said he aiming for and shot a sign and the BB ricocheted and hit the dog.

The 6-year-old pit-bull type dog was taken to a veterinary clinic.

Im having to force medicine down her throat that she doesnt like, the dogs owner said Wednesday.

Shes doing OK, but shes sleeping a lot, she said. The BB remains in the dog.

It sunk so far into her body that the vet people said they cannot take it out, she said. I looked at the x-ray. Had she been shot a little lower it would have entered her intestines and had she been shot a little to the left, it would either nick the rib or hit her lung.

Gun watchlist: Rep. Andrew Clyde's gun shop in Athens is on ATF watch program, reports New York Times

After investigating the wound and evidence presented by witnesses, the officer charged the 19-year-old suspect with aggravated cruelty to animals by maliciously inflicting pain to the dog and reckless conduct for firing the gun in a residential neighborhood and knowing that people were nearby.

The officer, Austin Falcon, didnt believe the teens explanation and wrote:

Due to the injuries that Mia sustained, there is no feasible way that a projectile coming from a pneumatic air gun that at full charge fires a projectile at an average of 625 feet per second can ricochet off of a sign 45 feet away, travel approximately 150 feet, and still have the force to penetrate Mia.

The suspect was released from jail the following day on a $2,400 bond. Police recovered the gun, where the officer said it was hidden behind a desk.

This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Athens teen charged with shooting dog claims it was accident
When Mary Hooks arrived at Atlanta City Hall Monday, spirits were high after a sweltering summer spent collecting tens of thousands of signatures to force a referendum vote on a controversial police and firefighter training facility.

Activists who oppose the construction of the $90 million, 85-acre training center near Atlanta, dubbed "Cop City" by its opponents, lined up along stairways and through hallways, passing boxes of paperwork to the clerk's office.

But the moment of triumph quickly turned into a standoff when city officials told organizers they couldn't begin the process of verifying the signatures on the petition. What's more, they've said, referendums can't be used to overturn this kind of city ordinance, so the entire process is moot.

The showdown between Cop City critics and city government is fueling a larger debate over whether Georgia voters have the right to overturn some city ordinances.

An attorney for the city said a recent court order means organizers missed the deadline to turn in the petition, but even if it was turned in on time, a referendum can't repeal the city ordinance that authorized the project's lease. Proponents of the referendum disagree. Fred Smith, a law professor at Emory University in Atlanta, said if they are successful they will set a precedent allowing city voters to overturn government policy through the power of the ballot.

Smith said an appellate court must first decide if the petition can be accepted. If that happens, he said the state's high court may eventually have to determine whether a referendum can repeal this city ordinance. He said the Georgia Supreme Court has signaled it will likely side with the petitioners, which would grant voters in Atlanta and cities across Georgia more power to challenge their local governments.

"If this is allowed to go forward, it will mean that when (city councils and county commissions) pass deeply unpopular legislation, that voters can be a direct check on that," he said. "And that's a trend that will be a transformative moment in the history of Georgia democracy."

What is Atlanta's Cop City?

Hooks, national field secretary for a coalition of activist organizations known as the Movement for Black Lives, said the resistance from city officials is disappointing, but not unexpected.

"There are many battles ahead of us because they are clear that they want to use the courts, the crooked courts, to try to dissuade people from having a voice in it," Hooks said.

Protestors react before council members voted 11-4 to approve legislation to fund the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center on June 6 in Atlanta.

In September 2021, the Atlanta City Council agreed to lease land for the facility to the private Atlanta Police Foundation for $10 a year.

Earlier this year, opponents of the project began collecting signatures from Atlanta residents to get a referendum on the November ballot that would allow voters to weigh in on whether they want to repeal the ordinance that authorized that lease.

Activists needed more than 58,00 signatures - the equivalent of 15% of registered voters as of the last city election - to get a referendum on the ballot, according to the clerk's office. Activists said they turned in more than 116,000 signatures to the city Monday.

Last month, the city unveiled its plan to verify that all of the signatures on the petition belong to an Atlanta resident who registered to vote during the 2021 municipal elections. Reviewers will then compare the signature to available public records, a tactic that voting rights advocates have called a "discredited tool of voter suppression."

According to the City Clerk's office, this is the first petition process the city has conducted and the policies and procedures around it were developed based on existing Georgia law and best practices from around the country.

Canvasser Sienna Giraldi, 26, right, with Stop Cop City Vote Coalition, talks to an Atlanta resident, left, on July 20 in Atlanta. Georgia activists are furious that Democratic senators havent condemned Atlanta officials plan to verify every signature on a petition to force a vote on a proposed police and firefighting training center.

What do city officials say about the referendum?

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said at a July 5 news conference that no one in law enforcement or his administration would interfere with the petition process. He said the citizens of Atlanta support the training center and the attempt to collect the signatures needed to secure the referendum would be unsuccessful if its done honestly. Dickens statement came about a month after a 14-hour City Council meeting during which hundreds of people spoke out in opposition to the project.

Two weeks later, attorneys for the city called the entire effort futile and invalid" in court filings. Robert Ashe, the city's outside council, told USA TODAY a Georgia Supreme Court case from the 1990s established that the petition process can't be used to repeal city ordinances unless they involve a change to the city's charter, which the ordinance related to the training facility does not. Ashe also said that repealing the ordinance that allowed the lease to be approved would not undo the lease itself because both the federal and state constitutions prohibit legislative bodies such as the City Council from canceling contracts retroactively.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens speaks speaks during a press conference at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2022, in Atlanta, announcing that the CFP National Championship NCAA college football game will be played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in 2025. (Jason Getz/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP)

Can the petition and referendum actually stop Cop City?

On Monday, Ashe announced yet another issue: the city cannot begin the process of verifying the signatures because activists turned them in late.

The organizers were initially required to turn in the signatures by Aug. 21, but in July, a judge for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, Mark Cohen, extended that deadline until late September. Ashe said the city appealed and on Sept. 1, the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals issued an order pausing the enforcement of the district court ruling pending the outcome of the appeal. Ashe said that order means the city cannot begin verifying the petition because it was turned in after the original deadline set by state law.

Kurt Kastorf, an attorney for the coalition, told reporters Monday the citys claim that it cant begin the verification process is insincere and incorrect. Lawyers for the coalition asked the district court to intervene and allow the process to begin.

But on Wednesday, Cohen, the district court judge, ruled that he cannot force the city to begin processing the signatures. Cohen accused the city of taking "vacillating positions throughout this legislation" and directly contributing to the confusion.

"It has consistently been the City's legal opinion that Georgia law does not allow for a referendum, but the City still issued the petition in a gesture of goodwill and good faith," the city said in a statement.

Now, "the ball is in the court of the 11th Circuit," Smith said. He said there is a wide range of actions that the appellate court could take and the temporary stay makes unclear what the fate of the signatures will be.

"Anyone who tells you that they know exactly what that means legally in this moment, I would be quite skeptical because I talked to a fair number of people about this and I teach federal courts, that's what I study, and I don't know what a stay means in this particular context," he said.

Canvassers Curtis Duncan, left, Gabriel Sanchez, center, and Sienna Giraldi, right, wait to talk with Atlanta residents on July 20 in Atlanta.

Smith said ultimately if the signatures are able to be verified, the petition process can succeed, though the question may work its way up to the Georgia Supreme Court.

In February, the state's high court unanimously rejected an attempt by commissioners in Camden County to invalidate a referendum in which residents voted overwhelmingly to stop county officials from building a launchpad for commercial rockets. Smith said it would be "politically untenable" for Camden County officials to reinstate the project after that decision.

Although the February decision involved a county and not a city, Smith said it sends strong signals that voters at the city level have the same power. He said the Atlanta case will be "precedent-setting."

"I think on that score, under state law, this will likely prove to be a permissible process," he said. "And again, a game changer for democracy in the state."

Contributing: The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Thousands in Atlanta want to vote on 'Cop City.' Can they stop it?
Sounding a fresh alarm about white supremacism and extremism in the military, a coalition of more than 35 human rights groups, experts and faith organizations this week called on the Secretary of Defense to account for the departments apparent lack of progress.

Extremism undermines the strength of the military and our democracy, the groups, led by Human Rights First, wrote in a letter Wednesday to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin .

The letter cites a USA TODAY investigation published in July, which found the military could show almost no progress on a collection of reforms Austin called for more than two years ago.

The organizations called for a public update, noting that the militarys own study of extremism in the ranks has been completed but never publicly released, as USA TODAY reported exclusively in July.

Violent extremists have been proven to target military members and veterans for recruitment, U.S. Army veteran and Human Rights First CEO Michael Breen said.

DoD must be transparent about their response to this insidious attack on military readiness, Breen said. Its time for the Defense Department to update the public on the implementation of their own reports recommendations and plans to mitigate this dangerous threat to democracy."

Investigation: The military ordered big steps to stop extremism. Two years later, it shows no results

While the letters signers include academics and activists who oppose extremist views, they are not the only ones to find fault with the militarys efforts so far.

Last month, shortly after USA TODAYs investigation, the Department of Defense Inspector General  the militarys own internal watchdog  released a report that concluded military recruiters had failed in their own roles to screen out extremists among new recruits.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon, July 18, 2023.

Report on extremism in the military still not released

In April 2021, Austin commissioned a study into extremism in the militarys total force, something experts said is an essential foundation for dealing with the problem. That study was one part of a larger set of orders directed at rooting out extremism after the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection. Many people later arrested for the riot had current or former military ties.

USA TODAY confirmed that study was completed more than a year ago, in June 2022. But it remains in an indefinite holding pattern as senior leaders review its findings, its contents hidden from public view.

In the letter to Austin, the advocates highlighted this report.

A Department of Defense official again declined to provide a copy of the report to USA TODAY last week.

On Wednesday, in response to USA TODAYs official request for the report under the federal Freedom of Information Act, the Department of Defense asked for more time. The response states that the report will not be provided within 20 days and notes that the Department of Defense currently has 3,515 open requests for public documents.

The military has also been unable to provide access to other documents about its efforts.

Austins initial update on his anti-extremism orders, delivered in late 2021, said the various service branches had revised their accession screening materials to ensure new recruits would be properly questioned about extremist ties. Yet in response to USA TODAYs FOIA requests to see those screening forms, the Marine Corps said it couldnt identify any documents that matched that description.

The week in extremism: Top Proud Boys have been sent to prison for years. Here's why that might not change things

Links between military service and extremism

The Pentagon in Washington, in a file photograph. The U.S. military embarked on a major new initiative to safeguard its ranks from the influence of extremist groups in 2021.

A report earlier this year from researchers with the University of Marylands National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism, or START, found that being affiliated with the U.S. military is the single strongest predictor of violent extremism in America.

The researchers analyzed a database of thousands of violent incidents going back to 1990 to reach their conclusions. The letter sent to Austin on Wednesday also notes recent examples of extremists with military backgrounds:

In June 2023, an active duty Marine was arrested for allegedly firebombing a womens health clinic and abortion provider. the letter states. In April 2023, a white supremacist soldier at Fort Bragg was arrested on gun charges. In February 2023, a Neo-Nazi veteran, who had already served time for weapons charges, was re-arrested for plotting to attack a power grid. In June 2022, four veterans and a member of the National Guard who were members of a white supremacist organization were arrested for conspiracy to disrupt an LGBTQ+ Pride event.

The signers of the letter suggest the wide swath of possible effects when extremist ideology overlaps with military access or training. It was signed by groups including the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, the National Organization for Women, the National Urban League and PFLAG. Other signers include a variety of faith and interfaith groups such as Jewish and Sikh organizations, and seven veterans activist groups.

Heidi Beirich, then the Intelligence Project Director, Southern Poverty Law Center, during the Investigation Discovery portion of the Discovery Communications Winter TCA Event 2018 at the Langham Hotel on Jan. 12, 2018 in Pasadena, Calif.

Sweeping initiative to combat extremism has stalled

USA TODAYs investigation found the military has almost nothing to show for its efforts two years after Austin announced the sweeping new initiative to combat extremism in the ranks in the wake of the Jan. 6 insurrection.

One of those moves was to launch a commission to study the problem. That commission made several recommendations for change aimed at stopping extremists from joining the military, weeding out extremists currently serving and preventing veterans from falling prey to recruitment from extremist groups.

The Department of Defense provided almost no answers to USA TODAYs detailed inquiries about 20 different solutions the commission had sought. That, plus Defenses lack of other updates, suggested many of those steps have simply never been implemented.

The letter writers reiterated those findings, noting, A disturbing recent USA Today investigation found little or no progress on 20 reforms the military itself had proposed.

The breakdown also brought frustration of experts who study extremism.

Theres this myopia to deal with this kind of far-right extremism in this country, Heidi Beirich, co-founder of the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism, told USA TODAY in July. GPAHE was one of the signers of the letter sent to the Defense Secretary this week.

Its inexplicable. Beirich said. Look, people with military training show up too much in domestic terrorism plots, and theyre killing people, including killing troops.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Extremism in the military: Human rights groups warn Defense Secretary
For the first time in four years, Minnesota has released fresh information on one of its key measures of school success: chronic absenteeism. In keeping with an increasingly worrisome national trend, the numbers are dire, with the statewide number of students who attend class consistently dropping from 85% to less than 70%.

That dramatic decline obscures much lower school-going rates among students who have already suffered disproportionately in the COVID-19 crisis. In some of Minnesotas highest-poverty schools, fewer than 1 in 4 students go to class on a regular basis.

Despite the dismal numbers, there has been virtually no public discussion about the link between students chronic absences and continuing declines in reading and math performance post-pandemic. Also unmentioned is the widening gap in attendance and academic recovery between affluent and disadvantaged students.

No paywall. No pop-up ads. Keep The 74 free with a donation during our Fall campaign.

The new numbers are available on the states school data dashboard, but visitors must navigate through several sub-menus to find the relevant information. Data from past years is contained in a very large spreadsheet found on another part of the website.

Defined as missing 10% or more of school days, chronic absenteeism was a crisis before the disruptions of the pandemic and has only worsened. According to Attendance Playbook, a joint report from the think tank FutureEd and nonprofit Attendance Works, more than 1 in 5 U.S. students  at least 10 million  missed more than 10% of the 2020-21 school year. Since schools have reopened, the number of chronic absences has risen, more than doubling in many states.

As alarming as that is, the Minnesota numbers underscore an even harsher reality: As with declines in student wellness and academic achievement, the pain is not distributed equally. The children who were already behind before the pandemic have suffered continuing, compounded impacts.

In Minneapolis Public Schools, for instance, the overall attendance rate fell from 79% to 46% from 2019 to 2022. But while the number of white students attending school 90% or more of the time dropped from 90% to 59%, the number for Black students fell from 71% to 32%; for Native Americans, from 44% to 24%; and for Latinos, from 78% to 44%. Attendance among children receiving special education services plummeted from 63% to 37%.

Research showing why it matters is clear. A middle schooler who misses two or fewer days each year has a 93% chance of starting high school on track to graduate, versus 66% for a child who misses two or more weeks. By ninth grade, a weeks absence each semester equals a drop of more than 20% in the likelihood of earning a diploma.

On the most recent NAEP exam, the students who scored the worst had missed the most school before the test. The White House Council of Economic Advisers also released research tying increases in student absenteeism to a meaningful portion of post-pandemic learning loss.

Related

New Study: Kids Who Scored Worst on NAEP Missed the Most School Before the Test

Barriers to regular attendance are higher for low-income families, according to Phyllis Jordan, a longtime absenteeism researcher who authored the FutureEd-Attendance Works report. The gap between attendance at wealthy and under-resourced schools has widened.

In 2019, 77% of Minnesota students statewide who qualified for subsidized school meals attended regularly, compared with 57% in 2022. At the districts wealthiest schools, attendance was high in 2022  87% at Armatage Elementary and Burroughs Community, for example. Meanwhile, 25% of children consistently attended high-poverty Nellie Stone Johnson, and just 17.5% at economically disadvantaged Bethune Arts Elementary.

Even more shocking: At Minneapoliss Harrison Education Center, just 3% of students  one child  attended classes regularly. The center serves students who fit three demographic categories where attendance is historically low: high schoolers living in poverty and on special education plans because of challenging behavioral issues.

Education leaders should be mining attendance data for patterns, says Jordan, whose report outlines a host of strategies for boosting attendance that range from in-school health care to mentorship and student engagement.

Sometimes its a daily pattern, like a lot of kids miss on Fridays, which is not that surprising. Theres some schools that are trying to do some special thing on Fridays now to get kids to come. Maybe its everybody in a certain part of town. Maybe they need to start running more school buses, Jordan says.

The data can also reveal positive outliers that might yield possible solutions. In Minneapolis Public Schools, for example, 57% of students are impoverished and the overall consistent attendance rate is 46%. But in adjacent Robbinsdale Area Public Schools, 61% of students live in poverty but 73% attend regularly.

Similarly, Minneapolis Lucy Craft Laney Community Elementary has an impoverished student body and a 49% regular attendance rate  even though its located a stones throw from similar high-poverty, low-attendance schools.

Minnesota chose to track consistent attendance as a non-academic measure of school performance under the 2015 Every Student Succeeds Act, as did 35 other states and the District of Columbia. As with test scores, public reporting of absentee data was suspended in the 2019-20 and 2020-21 school years because pandemic-driven shifts in and out of remote learning made defining attendance tricky.

Given that lagging attendance was an issue for years even before the pandemic, education leaders should have been mining whatever data they had for information showing which children were engaged in instruction and academic recovery efforts, says Jordan. At the Minneapolis School Boards June meeting, for example, staff reported that students who used online tutoring appeared to be making good academic progress  but said it was hard to draw definitive conclusions because poor attendance at school, where the digital tutoring took place, meant participation was spotty.

Even though Septembers was the first Minneapolis School Board meeting since the state released the 2022 attendance data, the topic did not come up. Instead, board members heard a presentation on the result of 2023s annual state reading and math assessments, on which disadvantaged students continued to backslide.

Often, low attendance may be linked to obvious causes such as transportation and stable housing. But leaders also need to consider whether a schools climate is inviting, and if staff have solid relationships with parents  who may have had bad experiences with school themselves, says Jordan.

Theres often this parent engagement piece you need to do with lower-income families to make sure that parents recognize that these absences make a difference, she says. Having a community person or a school liaison or teacher [visit parents at home] to get a sense of what the kids home life is like, talk to them about attendance and then have repeat visits, builds that connection.

Families often have unmet needs, but students also may not feel welcome at school, she adds: A lot of times if kids dont feel safe or respected, they dont come.  The school also needs to create a climate that makes kids want to come to school.
The Zaporizhzhia front has been abuzz with news of Ukrainians breaking through Russias first defensive line and chiseling away at a breach in the second.

Theyre widening that breach at this stage to enable the flow of armored vehicles and logistics so they can exploit it, Michael Kofman, defense analyst and senior fellow at Carnegie Endowment, told the Kyiv Independent.

The trend is in a positive direction, he added.

Ukrainian generals are saying the first line was the hard part, the main, second line should be easier.

The defense was counting on the (Russians) being able to retreat, said Viktor Kivliuk, a retired Ukrainian colonel with the think tank Center for Defense Strategies. But if there is no one left to retreat from the first line, who will defend the second?

In many ways, these battle dividends are a function of the Ukrainians courage and dedication. But its Russias baffling tactical choices that bear closer examination.

Russian troops built hundreds of kilometers of competent, multi-layered fortifications, well-suited for a defense in depth, yet spend months defending in front of the first line with most available forces. Not just defending but counterattacking with infantry fighting vehicles and artillery pieces they cant afford to squander.

The Russians have constructed a defense in depth in the south of Ukraine but spent most of the counteroffensive not using it, Kofman said.

Read also: Where does Russia expect Ukraines counterattack? Overview of defensive lines

Russias all-in strategy

Roughly, defense in depth is when a force prepares multiple positions across a territory and uses them to fight and fall back as needed, trading kilometers for enemy attrition.

In Zaporizhzhia Oblast, there are three main layers running perpendicular to the Ukrainian attack, with smaller supporting layers enhancing them here and there. Defenses also run along major roads and encircle important towns like Robotyne, which Ukraine took in early September.

Each line has layers of its own, with trenches and strong points at the platoon, company, and battalion levels, plus belts of minefields, tank obstacles, and other hindrances.

Everyone correctly predicted that Ukraine would send its main attacks at Melitopol and Berdiansk in an attempt to cut occupied Crimea from Russia and occupied parts of eastern Ukraine.

Russian Army General Sergey Surovikin ordered the lines to be built when he was in charge of the war effort, and they still bear his name. However, the general fell from grace after the warlord Yevgeniy Prigozhins short and unsuccessful rebellion.

The command was handed back to Russian Army General Valeriy Gerasimov, head of Russias forces fighting against Ukraine.

Under his watch, the Russian troops did not appear to use Surovikins defense in depth as originally intended.

The Russians bunched up and held their ground, even trying to counterattack and recapture lost territory. Most attempts failed, Kivliuk said.

Read also: New brigade bears heavy brunt of Russias onslaught in Kharkiv Oblast

Often fighting in front of their lines and not in them, Russians used their infantry, armor, and fires to maximize damage to Ukrainian soldiers by trading their own men and materiel instead of kilometers.

As a result, the first line was very hard to break, especially with no air support or experience with multi-brigade operations. Yet, Russian troops also endured heavy losses.

The Russian military has lost significant amounts of armored fighting vehicles in these counterattacks in order to prevent the Ukrainian forces from gaining momentum, Kofman said. And thats a very costly strategy.

The enemy has a lot of infantry but not enough equipment and IFVs and is forced to run around on their legs where maneuvers are concerned, Kivliuk said. Theyre doing what commanders tell them, but their shortages prevent them from doing it correctly.

Most existing vehicles, artillery, air defense, and communications Russia needs to defend are between the first and second lines, Kivliuk said. There isn't much available between the second and third.

Ukrainian commanders also expect a drop in mine density as they advance, giving them more room to maneuver.

Pulling reserves

The southern defense is largely the work of the 58th Combined Arms Army of the Southern military district, with its two divisions, the 19th and the 42nd.

Some of these forces fought the battle of Kherson and had retreated across the river late last year with significant losses. The Russian troops may have been forced to pull reserves just to have the numbers to defend the first and second lines.

This included pulling the 76th Airborne Assault from Luhansk Oblast and elements of the 41st Combined Arms Army and the Dnipro grouping.

Russian strategic reserves from the Dnipro and other areas of the front have been deployed south, Kofman said.

Kivliuk added that the Russians committed two re-formed airborne divisions, the 44th and 104th, which he described as glorified territorial defense regiments smashed together. Several airborne divisions in that area had to be re-staffed multiple times, according to the Institute for the Study of War.

Read also: Deadly drone arms race intensifies as Ukraine, Russia embrace the future of war

The 7th Air Assault Division has been pulled from Kherson as well, all of these units arriving in areas like Tokmak and, on its flanks, Kopani and Verbove.

This leaves less force available on other fronts. However, Gerasimovs assault force of up to 100,000 troops near Kupiansk still appears strong.

Putin claimed that 270,000 people voluntarily signed up to join the Russian military over the last six to seven months. But equipping them all and getting them to the southern front in time to make a difference would be quite a feat.

What were they thinking?

There are several reasonably strong hypotheses for Russias tactical decisions.

The most obvious is doctrinal disagreement. Surovikin wanted a classic positional defense, wearing down any advance over the course of several defensive lines, while Gerasimov prefers an active defense with regular counterattacks on the flanks, Kofman said.

In this version of events, Gerasimov may have been overconfident and overestimated what his force could achieve with active defense.

Kivliuk said that the pre-2022 Gerasimov, a skilled hybrid warrior who dreaded a full-scale invasion because he knew his armys limits, was a very different man than he is today.

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us

This ties into the simple fact that passing the war between two very different generals in response to domestic political scandals is bound to cause disruptions.

Another reason could be that the Russian military didnt have enough forces to man these lines, which is a drum the Institute for the Study of War has been beating for a while. Besides lacking sufficient numbers, the Russians arent used to organized fighting retreats at scale.

The Russians may have been concerned that if they were forced to retreat through their own lines, redeploy, and reposition reserves, it could lead to areas of collapse and a Kharkiv-like scenario. Kofman said this is a key point.

Kivliuk thinks its simpler than all that.

The staff of the 58th opened a textbook and followed instructions, he said. It calls for three lines, so they made three lines. It says two-thirds of troops to the first line, one-third to the remainder, so they did that.

Preparing for winter

It wasnt that long ago that observers were casting doom and doubt on the counteroffensive in the south, which began in early June.

After the attacking brigades became bogged down and lost vehicles, some were quick to dismiss the operation as a doomed enterprise. In the leaked Pentagon files, U.S. intelligence had a low opinion of its odds of success before it even started.

The steadier recent progress is what people were hoping to see. Some Ukrainian officials have called it a turning point. This doesnt mean that Ukraines successes will snowball out of Russias control soon.

Read also: Explainer: What we learned from Pentagon leak and why it matters

But for now, Russia appears to be in a worsening situation. With losses climbing and strategic reserves deployed, it might have to make hard decisions on where to pull troops and sacrifice their effectiveness on that axis. No mobilization can succor them fast enough.

Time is a factor for Ukraine as well, according to a comment by U.S. General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Milley acknowledged Ukraines steady progress but said Kyiv has about 30-40 days of decent weather left to get its unfinished battles done, which is very little time.

Ukraine intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov responded that weather will not stop the operation.

Experts said that while weather plays an important role, Milleys comment is, on its face, too simple.

The bigger factors will be combat readiness, force availability, and artillery shells  things that will allow Ukraine to exploit its breakthroughs.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Correction: A previous version of this story referred to the Chief of Naval Operations as the Chief Naval Officer in one instance.

WASHINGTON  The AUKUS agreement, under which the U.S. will provide Australia with Virginia-class attack vessels,will require a submarine production increase, the nominee to serve as Chief of Naval Operations told Congress Thursday.

Admiral Lisa Franchetti, who would be the first woman to serve in the position and on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said at her Senate confirmation hearing that AUKUS will require the production of 2.2 Virginia-class submarines per year. Thats a significant increase above the current production rate of 1.2 vessels per year, but slightly less than what senators had anticipated.

My understanding is we need to reach 2.2 to meet those requirements, as well as our commitment to continue to produce on Columbia-class submarine, Franchetti said. AUKUS is a strategic opportunity for us to knit together the strong partnership we already have with Australia and the U.K. and I think this will again change the adversaries decision calculus.

While the submarine-industrial base is behind this production goal, Franchetti expressed confidence that the Navy will be able to meet and achieve all of those requirements.

The Navy expects to achieve production of two Virginia-class submarines per year  its pre-AUKUS goal  by 2028. Under AUKUS, the U.S. plans to sell between three to five Virginia-class submarines to Australia as an interim capability in the early 2030s.

Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi, the top Republican on the Armed Services Committee, led half the GOP caucus in a July letter to President Joe Biden arguing that the Navy needs to invest additional funding the submarine-industrial base beyond the $647 million the White House requested for fiscal 2024. The letter projected that the U.S. would need to produce 2.3 to 2.5 Virginia-class submarines per year to avoid further shrinking our fleets operational capacity.

Wicker blocked two AUKUS authorizations from the Fiscal 2024 defense policy bill, demanding additional money for the submarine-industrial base. One authorization would permit the transfer of two Virginia-class submarines to Australia, while the other would allow the Biden administration to accept the $3 billion Canberra intends to invest in the U.S. submarine-industrial base as part of the AUKUS agreement.

Franchetti laid out a roadmap to bolstering Virginia-class production capacity from 1.2 to 2.2 submarines per year during her confirmation hearing by continuing to partner with industry to get after their biggest challenges.

Those steps include workforce development at the yards working on submarines  making sure that we can go out and help them recruit the people they need  and data analytics to understand throughput through the shipyards so we can be more effective with the workforce that we do have.

She also said the Navy needs to make sure industry has all the long-lead time materials  the parts, the spare parts  that they need to be able to move through that production line very quickly.

Franchetti warned that the Navy would not be able to begin construction of the next Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarines under a government shutdown or stopgap funding bill. House Republicans on Wednesday cancelled votes on the defense spending bill amid a litany of additional demands from the right-wing Freedom Caucus, increasing the prospect of a government shutdown at the end of the month.

The Tuberville blockade

Franchetti told senators she has not yet received a briefing on AUKUS submarine-industrial base investments from the Pentagons Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation office, citing a lack of bandwidth given the fact that shes currently performing two roles simultaneously. However, she committed to expeditiously putting the briefing on her calendar.

As the vice chief of naval operations, Franchetti currently serves as the acting chief of naval operations. The former chief, Admiral Mike Gilday, left the post in August.

Although the Senate Armed Services Committee did not hold Franchettis nomination hearing until this month, her confirmation would nonetheless run up against a blanket hold on the swift confirmation of all general and flag officer promotions instated by Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala.

The six-month hold, which Tuberville instated over the Pentagons abortion leave policy, has already ensnared more than 300 military confirmations, including two other joint chiefs nominees.

During her hearing, Franchetti testified that it would take years to recover from Tubervilles promotion delays, even if the Senate eventually confirms them.

Just at the three-star level, it would take about three to four months just to move all the people around, she said.

Tuberville has argued that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., should put the joint chiefs nominees on the floor for stand-alone votes.

But it would take until at least the middle of next year to do individual floor votes on the hundreds of other military nominees, even if the Senate neglected its other duties like funding the government and military.

A Congressional Research Services report released this week found it would take the Senate some 700 hours of floor time to confirm the 301 outstanding nominees. The Armed Services Committee expects to receive roughly 300 more military nominees by the end of the year.
The party of Myanmars deposed former leader Aung San Suu Kyi said Thursday they were concerned she is not receiving adequate medical care while in prison, amid reports her health is failing.

We are particularly concerned that she is not receiving adequate medical care and [the junta] are not providing healthy food nor accommodation sufficiently with the intention to risk her life, the National League for Democracy (NLD) said in a statement on Facebook.

If [Aung San Suu Kyis] health is not only impaired but her life also is endangered, the military junta is solely responsible, the party said.

CNN has reached out to the Myanmar junta.

On Tuesday, Reuters reported that Suu Kyis son, Kim Aris, had told the news outlet he was extremely worried about his mothers health, saying she has experienced dizziness and vomiting and has been suffering from severe gum disease.

Aris, who lives in Britain, also said his mother was struggling to eat and was being refused permission to see an outside doctor, according to Reuters.

Reuters did not say how Aris received the information regarding his mothers health, as he told the news agency that he has not been able to contact his mother in any way since she was detained by the military when they seized power in a coup in February 2021.

Suu Kyi's son, Kim Aris, said he was "extremely worried" about his mother's health. - Alishia Abodunde/Reuters

A source told CNN earlier this month that Suu Kyi was suffering from gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, and toothache, but had since recovered. The timeline of her illness and recovery is unknown.

In recent weeks, several countries and the United Nations have raised concerns about the health of the former leader, who faces years in detention.

On September 6, Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for the UN secretary general, called for Suu Kyis release saying, everyone in detention should be able to have access to health care, that is a basic right.

Leaders of the ASEAN member states also met last week in Jakarta, Indonesia  where Myanmars deteriorating security and humanitarian situation was high on the agenda. For the second consecutive year, Myanmar was not invited to the regional summit gathering.

At that summit, US Vice President Kamala Harris reiterated Washingtons commitment to continue the pressure on the regime to end the horrific violence, [and] to release all those unjustly detained and to reestablish Myanmars path to inclusive democracy.

Suu Kyi led Myanmar for five years before being forced from power and detained after her party was re-elected in a landslide election against military-backed opposition.

Army general Min Aung Hlaing seized power at that time in February 2021, ending Myanmars brief experiment with democracy, imprisoning multiple opposition figures and plunging the impoverished Southeast Asian nation into a raging civil conflict that continues to this day.

As of the end of 2022, the 78-year-old faced a total of 33 years in jail, including three years of hard labor, for multiple convictions including electoral fraud and receiving bribes.

The ruling military junta on August 1 pardoned Suu Kyi on five charges for which she was previously convicted, reducing her lengthy sentences.

A source CNN spoke to at the time with direct knowledge of the case said her sentence had been reduced by nine years, and that there were prior reductions already made to the amount of time she would have to serve.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles speaks during Question Time in the House of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra, Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023. The Australian government proposed Thursday, Sept. 14, tougher restrictions on former defense military personnel who want to train foreign militaries as the nation prepares to share nuclear secrets with the United States and Britain. (Lukas Coch/AAP Image via AP) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

CANBERRA, Australia (AP)  The Australian government has proposed tougher restrictions on former defense military personnel who want to train foreign militaries as the nation prepares to share nuclear secrets with the United States and Britain.

Defense Minister Richard Marles introduced legislation into the Parliament on Thursday aimed at safeguarding military secrets. Last year, he ordered the Defense Department to review standards after reports that China had approached former Australian military personnel to become trainers.

Australias allies the United States, Britain and Canada share concerns that China is attempting to poach Western military expertise.

The review recommended strengthening of already-robust legislation as Australia deepens technology-sharing with the United States and Britain under the so-called AUKUS agreement, an acronym for Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Under the agreement, the United States and Britain will provide Australia a fleet of at least eight nuclear-powered submarines.

Australian sailors are already training on U.S. and British nuclear submarines under the agreement.

The bill "reflects Australias commitment to enhance our security standards to safeguard sensitive technology and information, particularly as we embark on work through the AUKUS partnership, Marles told Parliament.

While the bill does not represent the entirety of our legislative ambition in this respect, it is an important step towards establishing more seamless technological transfers with our AUKUS partners, he added.

Elements of the bill were modeled on similar provisions in U.S. law, he said.

Under the proposed laws, former Australian defense personnel who work for or train with a foreign country without authorization could be punished by up to 20 years in prison.

Marles would have the power to decide which countries were exempt from the restrictions.

A parliamentary committee will scrutinize the draft legislation and report on it before a final draft becomes law.

Former U.S. Marine Corps pilot Dan Duggan was arrested at his Australian home last year and faces extradition to the United States on charges including that he illegally trained Chinese aviators. The 54-year-old Boston-born Australian citizen denies any wrongdoing.
LONDON  Artificial intelligence and autonomy companies from Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States are already feverishly developing and pitching tools to gather ever-more data and then help operators make sense of an information-overload environment.

Theyre hoping all this work will lead to contracts at home and with the allies soon, as more details about the second phase of the AUKUS trilateral arrangement, focused on advanced technology, come to light this fall.

Little has been formally revealed about the effort. The AUKUS collaboration was announced in September 2021, and in March 2023 the three nations top leaders gathered in California to reveal plans for the Pillar 1 thats focused on nuclear-powered submarines  first involving U.K. and U.S. vessels operating from an Australian base, then Australia buying American submarines as an interim solution, and then the nations collaborating on an AUKUS-specific attack submarine for the U.K. and Australia to each build and operate.

Pillar 2 will cover critical technologies: artificial intelligence, quantum computing, hypersonics, autonomy and more, it is believed.

U.S. Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Heidi Shyu told reporters last month she expected President Joe Biden to announce more details this fall.

AI developers, though, are confident theyll benefit from whatever the final plan ends up being.

We view ourselves  even though were a British company, were an allies-first company, as we call it. So we see the AUKUS opportunity really being the ability for us to deploy what we see as a critical, strategically fundamental capability not only to the U.K. but to our allies, Adarga CEO Rob Bassett Cross told Defense News during the companys demonstration of its Vantage AI-based decision-making tool at the DSEI 2023 defense expo in London.

Even without final Pillar 2 details, one Australian company is already seeing benefits as it tries to secure domestic sales.

Michael Partridge, the general manager of Australian drone-builder SYPAQ, told Defense News that his government was already in the midst of evolving its approach to helping small businesses not only develop new technologies but get them into the hands of warfighters for experimentation and on contract with acquisition officials, as part of its recent Defence Strategic Review. The looming AUKUS Pillar 2 arrangement has further aided SYPAQs effort to have serious talks about doing business with the government.

The conversations are markedly different, he said. What were seeing is government agencies aligning to the AUKUS pillar objectives, and that in itself just changes the narrative a little bit. So were starting to have conversations about common outcomes between different government agencies based off the objectives of AUKUS.

Rather than trying to sell a new technology in a bubble, without any context, if you can align yourself with the objectives of those AUKUS pillars, it tends to line up the conversations between different government agencies. Were finding  its only the first year or two into it  but its definitely having a massive influence into the way that people are perceiving how they would deliver the technologies.

What industrial bases are doing

AUKUS is expected to bring some legislative and policy changes that make sharing technology innovations and selling systems between the three countries much easier.

Though thats yet to happen, some companies are already gravitating towards partnerships with other AUKUS nations industrial bases.

Sentient Vision Systems, for example.

The Australian company developed the ViDAR sensor, a visual detection and ranging sensor meant to complement radar by conducting an optical search of an area and using artificial intelligence to help identify items of interest: small boats or even people in the water, moving vehicles or people on land, and so on.

Though unaffiliated with AUKUS, Sentient Vision Systems Business Development Director Paul Harris said the company already found itself linked closely with American and British organizations in an effort to develop a ViDAR payload for the Stalker drone, a group 2 small unmanned aerial system.

In 2021, Sentient Vision participated in a foreign comparative testing event with the U.S. Marine Corps, where the Marines favorably evaluated the ViDAR payload on the Stalker drone.

Now, Sentient Vision is in close talks with Edge Autonomy  the original equipment manufacturer of the Stalker drone  about further refining the small ViDAR payload and making it part of the sales pitch for Stalker drones in Europe and around the world.

Harris said Sentient Vision was also in talks with American company Shield AI to develop a ViDAR payload for its V-BAT drone, as well as improve the ViDARs performance with the integration of Shield AIs Hivemind AI technology.

Shield AI's V-Bat takes off from the deck of a ship. (Photo courtesy of Martin UAV)

Its going to be a really interesting journey ahead. Firstly, from an AUKUS perspective, we all come from countries with a similar value set. Weve all got similar operational challenges. And the Australian Defence Force and U.S. DoD work hand in glove in the Indo-Pacific, in particular, Harris said.

Not only do the navies operate together in the Pacific, the Australian Army and U.S. Marine Corps have been tightly knit as the Aussies establish an amphibious warfare capability of their own.

Harris said this natural comradery at a national level will certainly open doors  but so, too, will AUKUS-related policy changes, such as one the U.S. Congress is considering that would allow Australian and British technology to be considered domestically sourced, something that only Canada qualifies for today.

These legislative changes will enable it to be easier for Australian companies to do business more readily in the US. I think the U.S. is very receptive of partnership with Australia, and AUKUS only amplifies that favorable environment, Harris said.

Adarga, too, is already eyeing business through AUKUS. Cross said his company already has a small team in the U.S. and is setting up a small office in Australia now.

AUKUS promises a tighter operational tie between the three nations, and specifically their navies, as they operate in the Pacific to keep the peace and to deter Chinese aggression.

Cross said Vantage was a must-have tool for allies going forward. Unsaid was that the tool would be able to pull from three different data sets to create even better outcomes, if the nations can get their information-sharing agreements right under AUKUS.

Vantage is an AI-powered decision aid. Cross is a military veteran who said that, during his deployments, we were often acting without the insights we needed. It wasnt we lacked the data, even back then; we had a vast amount of it, Cross said. We just didnt have the time or the tools needed to make sense of it all. We had all the pieces of the jigsaw, if you will, but were rarely able to fit them all together in time to get a clear and dynamic understanding of our operating environment.

Vantage, which has already been offered to Adargas existing military, government and commercial customers and is, as of this week, available to a wider customer base, constantly takes in both in-house and open-source documents of all kinds and formats to build its information base.

The system can then be queried for a report: from the increasing Russian influence in Mali, what is the threat to the stability of the region?, product manager Ollie Carmichael offered as an example during the Sept. 13 demonstration at DSEI.

Q&A feature

He showed how Vantage first showed a list of people and organizations of interest to this topic, all of which could be further investigated, and then a visual representation of how people, events and locations were all connected, as it relates to the issue of Russian influence in Mali.

Carmichael also showed a question-and-answer feature for more specific questions, where a user may need a fact that buried in an old report thats not easily accessible, but that Vantage can find and report back in minutes.

Whatever your role, the challenge is the same: information is scattered across silos, on different systems, and within inaccessible sources, he said.

Adarga's Vantage artificial intelligence system can sift through millions of documents from a variety of sources and help users quickly gain insight into operational problems they face. (Adarga image)

Cross said the U.K.s three services and the Strategic Command all use its AI tools, as do commercial customers who need to know more about non-financial risks to their business and how events and geopolitical factors could affect them.

He said he hopes to expand the customer base soon.

Weve been talking about this for some time. The technologys now here, he said, and hes ready to sell to American and Australian buyers.
The Kansas Bureau of Investigation has identified the man shot by deputies after a chase on Tuesday as 21-year-old Blake P. Patterson of Wichita, KBI spokesperson Melissa Underwood said in news release.

Patterson remains hospitalized in critical, but stable condition, Underwood said.

The chase started shortly before 3 p.m. at Butler Road and SW 60th Street when Butler County Sheriffs Office deputies spotted a stolen vehicle and a chase ensued, the Eagle previously reported.

Deputies used spike strips to stop the vehicle where it crashed in a neighborhood near the intersection of Kellogg and 159th street, at the county line between Butler and Sedgwick County, Butler County Sheriff Montey Hughey said.

The suspect fled the vehicle and deputies chased him on foot. Shots were fired and one person was shot and is in critical condition, Hughey previously said.

All together, the Sedgwick and Butler County Sheriffs Office along with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation were at the scene near Andover.
A sense of dread is settling over some parts of Michigan.

The strike that the United Auto Workers is threatening to launch as soon as midnight could close some of the states biggest factories for weeks and upend the economy. It could also hobble manufacturers efforts to expand electric vehicles at a time when the United States is trying to address climate change following a catastrophic summer of extreme weather.

And it could scramble President Joe Biden 's political calculus in the key battleground state.

Michigan Democrats support the union but caution that the president, a self-described car guy, faces potential political danger if thousands of union workers go on strike in such a critical swing state  one that helped seal Donald Trump 's victory in 2016, then did the same for Biden four years later.

That's especially true, they say, if the autoworkers dont get a satisfactory outcome for their demands for higher wages. At the same time, the UAW has been vocal in expressing alarm that Bidens climate policies are subsidizing the creation of factories for electric car parts in non-union states.

It is all about voter enthusiasm and if our base, our young voters, and in this case, our union voters, if theyre not excited and enthusiastic about voting for Democrats, we are going to have trouble at the ballot box, said Yousef Rabhi, who served as the Democratic floor leader in the state House until earlier this year.



An extended strike against the three automakers  Ford Motor Co., General Motors Co. and Stellantis NV  could send tremors through Bidens reelection efforts in Michigan and Wisconsin, two must-win states for Democrats next year, if both sides dig in for months without a resolution. A long-lasting walkout could trigger a recession in Michigan and spill over into neighboring states with parts suppliers and other businesses that rely on the auto industry.

UAW President Shawn Fain said Wednesday night that a rolling series of strikes was likely, starting at a few facilities and growing if the union and companies cant reach a deal.

"We're making progress, but we're still very far apart," Fain said in a Facebook Live update to members of his 150,000-person union. "To win, we're likely going to have to take action. We are preparing to strike these companies in a way they've never seen before."

A strike that lasts 10 days could cost $5 billion, including almost $1 billion in lost worker wages and another $1 billion in company losses, according to the Anderson Economic Group, a consulting firm based in Lansing, Mich., that includes carmakers as clients. A 2019 strike against GM, which involved about 50,000 workers and lasted six weeks, tipped the state into a brief three-month recession, the firm estimated.

The looming strike comes up constantly in the Michigan capital, where Democrats are working to pass an aggressive agenda set by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, said state Sen. John Cherry, whose district includes Flint.

Cherry said the political discussion among many Democrats is not yet focused on the partys prospects in 2024 but rather on how to support the thousands of workers in their districts who could soon be out of work. His district alone, he said, has dozens of large and small auto manufacturing facilities as well as parts suppliers.

A lot of folks are looking at this for what it means to the national political environment. I think whats important is that the biggest impact is on the individual level, he said. If youre not able to get a wage to support your family, thats one reason why people arent going to want to work in a plant.

The strike presents a singular moment for Biden, who has called himself the most pro-union president in American history. It stands to collide with his climate policy, which is driven by $369 billion in spending aimed at boosting electric vehicle manufacturing, expanding clean energy and developing technologies to pull carbon dioxide from the sky.

Biden has sought to make his support of U.S. workers a centerpiece of that agenda, which promotes the use of American steel and components in factories that make everything from offshore wind blades to batteries for electric vehicles.

Any economic downturn from the potential strike would cut against the administrations messaging around Bidenomics and the surge in clean energy manufacturing that is already occurring.

Biden has pushed automakers to help him reach his climate goals by producing more electric vehicles  and they have complied. GM, whose plants in Detroit could be picketed by striking workers, plans to produce 1 million EVs by 2025. Mary Barra, the CEO, has been a key ally of Biden, who has credited her with electrifying the entire auto industry.

But much of the EV workforce is paid a lower wage than the autoworkers who make internal-combustion engines. The UAWs threatened strike is primarily about getting better benefits for those workers.

Fain, the union president, started negotiations by asking for a wage hike of 40 percent  to match what he said were the salary increases of company executives  and the restoration of a pension system. On Wednesday, Fain announced that the automakers had agreed to salary increases of about half that amount but said they were not enough to account for years of minimal increases and the stripping of benefits.

The rapidly emerging clean energy economy that Bidens climate policies have spurred  and its impact on worker salaries  is also an issue orbiting the talks.

Fain has declined to endorse Bidens reelection until he addresses the divide between his labor and climate policies.

As he has before, Trump made it clear again Wednesday that he will try to leverage the potential strike to drive a wedge between Biden and the autoworkers.

I strongly urge the U.A.W. to make the complete and total repeal of Joe Bidens insane Electric Vehicle mandate their top, non-negotiable demand in any strike, Trump said in a statement. If that disastrous Biden policy is allowed to stand, the U.S. auto industry will cease to exist, and all your jobs will be sent to China.

Even though he has declined to endorse Biden, Fain has said the union will never endorse Trump for president because of his numerous anti-labor positions.

Bidens aggressive electric vehicle policies are a signature part of his climate platform. His administration is pursuing environmental regulations that it says could lead to electric vehicles accounting for two-thirds of new vehicle sales by 2032.

The climate repercussions from the negotiations could offer lasting damage to Bidens efforts to lower greenhouse gases, a senior labor official not involved in the talks told POLITICOs E&E News. If the companies fail to boost wages for the newly created electric vehicle industry jobs, it will demonstrate to the world that climate policy does not provide for middle-class jobs, he said.

He said Biden should not treat the negotiations as a simple labor dispute but rather as an existential threat to the administrations electric vehicle policies.

The issue here is whether the Biden administration will treat it as a mortal threat to them, as opposed to seeing the negotiations over electric vehicle salaries as something that just has to be worked out between the parties, said the official, who was granted anonymity to speak freely without upsetting union officials. This stuff has to be taken seriously for the Biden administration to be taken seriously in industrial states.

Despite the possible economic repercussions for Michigan, some Democrats are not convinced that a lengthy strike or the unions dissatisfaction with Biden will harm his reelection prospects next November.

The political strength of the UAW has steadily eroded among Michigan Democrats, said Mark Grebner, who has served for about four decades as a Democratic commissioner in Ingham County, a union stronghold that includes the state capitol, Lansing. The UAW was once a dominant force in Democratic politics, but dwindling membership and rising enthusiasm among its members for Trump has shrunk its influence. Meanwhile, for decades, the party has been expanding beyond its white working-class roots to a more diverse array of voters.

Theyre just not that big a deal anymore, Grebner said of the union. Theyre less and less Democratic, and the party has picked up all sorts of constituents.

A version of this report first ran in E&E News Climatewire. Get access to more comprehensive and in-depth reporting on the energy transition, natural resources, climate change and more in E&E News.
Axiom Space's newly announced third astronaut crew includes a mix of space experience.

Houston-based Axiom Space named the full crew of four people who will fly to the International Space Station on the Ax-3 mission no sooner than January 2024, in a company announcement Tuesday (Sept. 12). Axiom bills the venture as the first all-European commercial mission.

The crew will be headed by former NASA astronaut Michael Lopez-Alegria, a dual U.S.-Spanish citizen who also commanded Ax-1 in 2022. Also on board will be Italian Air Force Col. Walter Villadei, who flew to suborbital space with Virgin Galactic 's first commercial launch in June; Marcus Wandt of Sweden, a European Space Agency astronaut; and Turkey's first citizen in space, Alper Gezeravc. It will be Lopez-Alegria's sixth mission, Villadei's second, and the first for Wandt and Gezeravc.

Ax-3 will launch to the ISS from NASA's Kennedy Space Center using SpaceX 's Crew Dragon spacecraft, which is the only American vehicle currently certified by NASA to carry humans to and from the orbiting complex, atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. (Axiom signed an agreement with SpaceX in 2021 to bring three additional crews to space, following its first space station mission, Ax-1.)

Related: NASA and Axiom Space sign on for 4th private astronaut mission to space station

Wandt's selection for Ax-3 was already made public in June, and Villadei was associated with the mission at least as early as August, according to a post from Villadei on X (formerly Twitter.) Lopez-Alegria and Gezeravc are new additions to the crew. NASA regulations updated after Ax-1 specify that all commercial missions must be commanded by a former NASA astronaut.

Lopez-Alegria is a veteran of three space shuttle missions: STS-73 in 1995, STS-92 in 2000 and STS-113 in 2002. He also commanded ISS Expedition 14 during a 2006-07 seven-month mission, using a Russian Soyuz spacecraft to reach space . He is one of NASA's all-time top spacewalkers, with 10 extravehicular activities across 67 hours and 40 minutes of EVA, his agency biography states. He retired from NASA in 2012, then joined Axiom Space in 2017 ahead of commanding Ax-1 in 2022.

"The Ax-3 mission will be transformational as it fosters partnerships outside the construct of the ISS, and positions European nations as pioneers of the emerging commercial space industry," Lopez-Alegria said in the Axiom statement. Lopez-Alegria also reposted Axiom's announcement on X on Tuesday.

Villadei has been training for space since at least 2008, according to his Axiom biography , when he was assigned in Russia for Italian Air Force requirements. He was qualified to fly the Soyuz, but never made a spaceflight on that vehicle. He served as backup for the Ax-2 mission, which flew earlier this year, and was selected in 2021 for a Virgin Galactic flight.

The June 29 Virgin Galactic spaceflight with Villadei saw him command Italy's Virtute-1 mission, including research for the Italian National Research Council. (Whether it was a spaceflight depends on who you talk to. Virgin flies below the 62-mile or 100-kilometer Karman Line defined by international authorities for the boundary of space, but above the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration's 50-mile, or 80-km, mark for where it says space begins.)

Related: Virgin Galactic aces its 1st-ever commercial launch of suborbital space plane (video)

SpaceX's Crew Dragon Freedom spacecraft docked at the International Space Station with black space behind.

The Ax-3 mission will take place during the 100th anniversary year of the Turkish Republic that was established in October 1923, Gezeravc wrote on X (translation provided by Google.) The mission, he added, "will carry the dreams of our young generations, the guarantee of our future, into the depths of space."

Wandt is a project or reserve astronaut, which is a new category ESA established during its last astronaut selection that concluded in 2022. The reserve list includes astronaut candidates who passed selection, but who are not recruited by ESA until a flight opportunity arises. In the meantime, the reserve astronauts stay with their current employer until called up for flight. Wandt was called up for Ax-3 in June.

"Space became more real today," Wandt wrote on X of the announcement on Tuesday. "We are ready."

Wandt's mission for ESA will be called Munnin, a name from Norse mythology. Munnin and companion Huginn are raven accomplices of the god Odin, and are meant to symbolize the human mind, ESA officials wrote . (Huginn is the mission name of ESA astronaut Andreas Mogensen, who is currently serving with SpaceX's Crew-7 on the ISS.)

Related: Europe's new astronaut class features 2 women and a paralympian trauma surgeon

four people in white spacesuits stand near a launch pad.

Gezeravc was named as an astronaut candidate in May, during an event in which Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan pledged Gezeravc would fly by the end of 2023, according to the Associated Press . Gezeravc, a 21-year veteran of the Turkish Air Force, also has a backup: aviation systems engineer Tuva Cihangir Atasever. Turkish media wrote that the duo were selected from 36,000 applications to be astronauts.

Axiom received a mission order from NASA in March to bring Ax-3 to the ISS, which was then manifested for no earlier than November 2023. Axiom did not name crew members at that time, but a NASA release stated Axiom would submit four proposed crew members and two backups to the ISS Multilateral Crew Operations Panel, an international coalition of ISS members that approves crew assignments to the orbiting complex.

Ax-3's crew will spend the next several months in training for a 14-day mission, "to familiarize the private astronauts with systems, procedures, and emergency preparedness for the space station and the Dragon spacecraft," NASA officials stated. Training was expected to begin no earlier than spring 2023.

Axiom is allowed to run missions to the ISS under a reimbursable Space Act agreement with NASA. Axiom is required to pay NASA "for services to enable the mission," the agency's release stated. Examples include using training and launch facilities at NASAs Johnson Space Center in Houston and the agency's Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Florida. (SpaceX also has a reimbursable Space Act agreement with KSC for launch services.)

Axiom's mission-specific order for Ax-3 specifies it will pay NASA for services "such as crew supplies, cargo delivery to space, storage, and other in-orbit resources for daily use," the agency stated. The order allows for an extra week of stay on the ISS if required.

Additionally, NASA may ask Axiom to bring scientific samples back to Earth in Dragon  which allows for cold storage of biomedical samples  or request that Lopez-Alegria "complete NASA science or perform tasks for NASA," agency officials stated.

Related: Private space station: How Axiom Space plans to build its orbital outpost

Artist's illustration of the space station that Houston-based company Axiom Space plans to build in Earth orbit.

Axiom itself receives revenues from the customers paying for seats and science, but in January, company officials told reporters that national governments would be primary customers for future missions going forward, according to SpaceNews .

The costs that ESA, Italy and Turkey paid for Ax-3 were not disclosed, but the Ax-1 seats bought by three customers (aside from Lopez-Alegria's as an Axiom employee) were reportedly billed at $55 million apiece ; that is roughly 51 million Euros each at today's exchange rates.

RELATED STORIES:

 NASA and Axiom Space sign-on for 4th private astronaut mission to space station

 Axiom Space targeting November 2023 for 3rd private astronaut mission to space station

 Axiom Space: Building the off-Earth economy

NASA is gradually opening up the space station to commercial vendors like Axiom through its Commercial LEO Development Program, which aims to bring more commercial participation to the space station. The ISS already hosts dozens of commercial experiments, and now the agency is approving commercial astronauts to run those experiments. Ax-3 and a successor mission, Ax-4, were approved by NASA following a September 2022 agency research announcement of opportunity .

Axiom's aims for ISS include adding at least four modules to the orbiting complex; it won a NASA contract to construct the first commercially manufactured model in 2020, and will fly that facility in 2026 or so. Axiom will then gradually bring in more modules to expand research and other facilities. When the ISS retires, which is expected to occur in 2030, Axiom will fly its modules as an independent and integrated space station.

Axiom isn't the only company with NASA support in creating new space stations. The agency aims to transition its research to privately run facilities in low Earth orbit after the ISS. NASA awarded $415 million in early-stage contracts in 2021 to coalitions led by Blue Origin, Nanoracks and Northrop Grumman. NASA officials have emphasized in recent months that the agency is doing its best to minimize or eliminate any gap between the ISS' retirement and the beginning of the new space stations.
NATIONAL HARBOR, Md.  The U.S. Air Forces next stealth bomber, the B-21 Raider, is conducting engine runs and remains on track for its first flight this year, officials from the service and manufacturer Northrop Grumman said at a conference this week.

The Raider, which the Air Force unveiled in a highly publicized ceremony in Palmdale, California, in December, is in the midst of an extensive series of ground tests for several systems, officials said at the Air and Space Forces Associations Air, Space and Cyber Conference in Maryland. The testing is required before the aircraft can fly for the first time.

The Air Force intends this new highly classified bomber, which in about a decade will replace the B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit, to be a significant new weapon in its arsenal to deter adversaries such as China from acts of aggression. It has significant range and advanced stealth capabilities the Air Force hopes will allow it to slip undetected into enemy territory to carry out penetrating strike missions. The service views it as the backbone of its future bomber force.

Air Force Global Strike Command head Gen. Thomas Bussiere said in a Tuesday panel that the Air Force and Northrop Grumman are conducting engine runs to test the B-21s propulsion systems at Plant 42 in Palmdale, California.

In an interview with Defense News on Wednesday, Tom Jones, president of Northrop Grummans aeronautics systems unit, declined to say when the engine runs began or what further tests must occur before the first flight can take place, citing security concerns.

Engine runs are performed with the B-21 restrained in a dock, Jones said, and are meant to ensure the engines are working correctly and responding to the bombers throttles. But other prep work done on the Raider in recent months, Jones added, included activating its systems, checking to ensure its control actuation systems work, and ensuring doors and landing gears open or extend properly.

Weve made a substantial dent in the work scope that needs to get done in ground check, and were very confident were going to make the flight this year, Jones said.

The Air Force rolled out this first test B-21, which is a production-representative aircraft almost identical to the final model, in a December 2022 ceremony in Palmdale, Calif. (U.S. Air Force)

The B-21 team also conducted troubleshooting reviews of the bombers fuel systems, William Bailey, director of the Air Forces Rapid Capabilities Office that oversees the B-21, said in a Wednesday panel. The digital tools used to check the bombers fuel infrastructure allowed it to move to the engine run phase in less than five days, he added.

Jones said that on any new aircrafts development, such checks are crucial to ensuring the fuel moves around to different places as intended.

Even under the best of circumstances, Jones explained, the process can be time-consuming. But if something is faulty, technicians have to get down into hard-to-reach nooks and crannies of the plane to locate the problem and fix it.

Getting that right is a big deal on any aircraft, Jones said. But on a flying wing [such as the B-21], its critical to stability.

Jones said Northrop Grumman has found and fixed things that need to be adjusted or that were installed incorrectly on the Raider during tests such as engine runs, but that those discoveries are part of the normal process of fine-tuning an entirely new aircraft.

He added that investments the company made in digital models and software simulations paid off by helping catch issues and fix them faster, including during fuel checks. And the fact that functional fuel checks were able to take place in just five days showed the B-21s underlying software is solid, he said.

That software testing is now complete, and only ground tests of its hardware remains, which Jones said is a reversal from how new airplane tests typically work. Every aircraft thats ever been made, the airplane has been waiting for the software  at least the ones that have software, he explained.

In his panel, Bailey joked that the B-21s software engineers smack talk the hardware team, saying: Would you please hurry up? Were done. 

The scheduled first flight will take the first bomber to Edwards Air Force Base in California for even more extensive flight tests. Its taken longer for the B-21 to reach its first flight than its predecessor, the B-2, which had its first flight eight months after its November 1988 rollout.

Jones said the increased complexity of the B-21, including more than 30 years of advancements in technology, led to the longer schedule. But building this first test B-21 as a production-representative aircraft instead of a bespoke experimental model  while making things more complicated  will pay off down the road by making it easier to shift into production and leverage economies of scale, he said. For example, the initial B-21 has the mission systems and low-observable stealth coatings all production bombers will have.

It took a little bit of extra time, [but] its going to pay dividends, Jones said.

In March, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall sounded a note of caution about the B-21s first flight, saying it had slipped a few months but was within the baseline schedule.

At the AFA conference this week, Air Force officials such as Kendall, acquisition chief Andrew Hunter and Bussiere expressed satisfaction with the B-21 program. Kendall said he is hopeful the first flight will happen this year, absent any unexpected surprises.

But surprises do happen in acquisition programs, Kendall added.
A baby and a dog died after being left in a car for over six hours and a woman has been taken into custody, authorities in Virginia said Wednesday.

Police were called to to Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital in Newport News at around 4 p.m. on Tuesday after a man came to the emergency room and said he had a "deceased child" in the back of his vehicle, York-Poquoson Sheriff Ron Montgomery said at a news conference.

Emergency room personnel found a black plastic trash bag in the rear hatch of the vehicle, Montgomery said, and inside the bag was an 11-month-old child's body. The child was later identified as Myrical Wicker.

An investigation found that the baby had been in the care of babysitter Kristen Graham. Graham, 40, had been caring for the child for about two days, but would periodically "take care of the child sometimes for weeks at a time," Montgomery said. The child's mother is a 17-year-old area woman who was not identified in the news conference.

The investigation found that Graham received a phone call from a friend who was in Newport News at about 1 a.m. on Sept. 12. The person asked Graham to bring her cigarettes, and Graham complied, putting the child in the back of her vehicle along with a small dog. Graham went to a 7/11, purchased cigarettes and a bottle of apple juice, and then drove to the friend's home and "stayed there for some period of time," Montgomery said. At around 8 a.m., she returned home with the child and dog.

Once arriving home, Graham rolled up the windows on the car, turned the vehicle off and left the dog and the child in the vehicle, Montgomery said. Graham then went to sleep and was awakened at 2:30 p.m. by a phone call.

At that point, she "went outside to then check on the child, who was at that point deceased," Montgomery said. The child was brought into the house before being transported to the hospital.

Montgomery said that Graham was arrested at her home on Wednesday. She has been charged with felony child neglect, a class four felony, and animal cruelty, a class one misdemeanor. According to court documents, she is still in custody at the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail.

Montgomery said that "there's a very good possibility that these charges could be upgraded to homicide charges" once an autopsy of the child is completed.

"These are not typical situations that we deal with in your county," Montgomery said. "When you do come across the death of a child, it affects everyone ... We have children ourselves, and I can tell you that we all go home and hug our kids and our grandkids a little tighter after something like this happens."

Montgomery did not explicitly mention whether heat played a role in the child's death but the high temperature in Newport News on Tuesday was 88 degrees.

According to kidsandcars.org, the incident marked at least the 26th child to die in a hot car nationwide this year and the 2nd in Virginia.

Hunter Biden indicted on federal gun-related charges

Why Trump, co-defendants won't all be tried together in Georgia election subversion case

Co-worker of Gilgo Beach murders suspect says he unnerved her by tracking her down on vacation
Police arrested a Virginia woman who they say left an 11-month-old baby and a dog inside a car for several hours, where both died.

Caregiver Kristen Danielle Graham, a 40-year-old Seaford resident, was arrested last night, September 12, 2023, on 1 Felony count of Child Neglect and 1 misdemeanor count of Animal Cruelty, stated a Facebook post by the York-Poquoson Sheriffs Office in Yorktown.

An investigation is underway, according to the post, and the medical examiners office is determining the cause of death.

A spokesperson from the sheriffs office confirmed to TODAY.com that the child was a baby girl named Myrical.

York County Sheriff Ron Montgomery said in the press conference that on the afternoon of September 12, police responded to a hospital in Newport News, Virginia, after an elderly man entered the emergency room and reported a deceased child in his car outside.

When staff went outside, they saw a black trash bag in the car that contained the baby.

"That child has been identified as Myrical Wicker, date of birth October the 19th, 2022," he said.

Police have arrested Kristen Danielle Graham of Yorktown, who they identified as the baby's caregiver.

According to Montgomery, the caretaker had been caring for the child for an estimated two days. The baby's mother is 17 years old, he said. Montgomery said that Graham regularly cared for the child, sometimes for weeks-long stretches.

The sheriff explained that around 1 a.m. on the morning of September 12, Graham received a phone call from a friend who asked Graham to bring her cigarettes to a residence in Newport News, where the friend was caring for an elderly man.

"So the 11-month-old child was put in the back of the vehicle along with a small dog and transported to Newport News where they went to a 7-Eleven, purchased cigarettes and a bottle of apple juice," said Montgomery.

He said Graham then drove to the friend's location where she stayed "for some period of time."

Montgomery said evidence shows that the caretaker returned to her York County residence around 8:00 a.m. with the baby.

"Once she got home, she rolled the windows up on the car, turned the car off, left the dog and the child in the vehicle," he said. Somewhere between 2:00 and 2:30 p.m., added Montgomery, the caretaker was awakened by a phone all and went outside "to then check on the child, who was at that point deceased."

Montgomery said the child was brought inside the house and the person who brought the child to the hospital first placed her in the black plastic bag.

Graham was arrested and taken to the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail, where she was being held as of September 13. TODAY.com reached out to Graham's attorney, but did not hear back.

Montgomery said that Graham shared conflicting statements to police about the child and the dog being left in the car.

She would initially have us believe that she was in the vehicle along with the child and the dog for that duration of time, he said. Our evidence that we have collected doesnt support that information. We believe that she left them, went in the house, went to sleep and came back out 6 hours later.

Montgomery said the caregiver also told police that the child was sleeping inside the car and she made a decision just to leave the child in the vehicle.

According to Montgomery, the heat index was at least 100 degrees while the child and the dog stayed in the car between around 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Montgomery said that depending on the results of the child's autopsy, the charges could be upgraded to homicide.

"These are not typical situations that we deal with in York County," he said. "When you do come across the death of a child, it affects everyone."

"We have children ourselves," added Montgomery. "I can tell you that we all go home and hug our kids and our grandkids a little tighter after something like this happens."

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
As a new academic year begins, a school district in an affluent Washington, D.C., suburb is rolling out stringent security measures, including metal detectors and a clear backpack mandate, to keep danger from entering its buildings.

Yet even before the first class started, the 133,000-student district in Prince Georges County, Maryland, faced an assault on its security  one carried out completely online.

Rather than barge through the front entrance of a school, threat actors appeared to break in through a backdoor in the districts computer network. The mid-August intrusion meant the high-performing school system  among the nations 20 largest  joined a growing list of school district ransomware victims, another proof point that the education sector is now a primary target of cyber gangs.

No paywall. No pop-up ads. Keep The 74 free with a donation during our Fall campaign.

Schools have this delicious trove of data and do not have the same protections as banks and other for-profit businesses, said Jake Chanenson, lead author of a recent University of Chicago report on school district cyber risks.

In the case of Prince Georges County Public Schools, the attack appeared to enter its final stage on Tuesday when the Rhysida gang posted to its leak site a collection of data it purportedly stole nearly a month ago. A cursory review of the files suggest they date back two decades.

Data purportedly stolen from the school district in Prince Georges County, Maryland, was uploaded to the Rhysida ransomware gangs dark web leak site Tuesday after the school system fell victim to a cyberattack. (Screenshot)

The back-to-school season, already a particularly busy period for school technology leaders, has become a prime time for district ransomware attacks, according to cybersecurity experts. In August alone, ransomware gangs claimed new attacks on 11 K-12 school systems, according to an analysis by The 74 of the cyber groups dark web leak sites. Among them are three New Jersey districts, two in Washington state, a Denver charter school network and a district in remote Alaska. Several additional districts have disclosed cyberattacks since the start of the new year, including news of a breach last week against Floridas Hillsborough County Public Schools, the seventh-largest district in the U.S.

In Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, district officials said a ransomware attack had forced them to cancel classes for three days in just the second week of the academic year.

At the Lower Yukon School District in Alaska, technology director Joshua Walton said a hack and subsequent data breach by the burgeoning ransomware gang NoEscape was first initiated in late July, before the fall semester began.

Your confidential documents, personal data and sensitive info has been downloaded, the group wrote in a ransom note obtained by The 74. Published information will be seen by your colleagues, competitors, lawyers, media and the whole world.

Educators with the Lower Yukon School District received this ransom note after NoEscape threat actors carried out a ransomware attack on the school system this summer. (Screenshot)

Ultimately, the district refused to pay the groups $300,000 ransom demand, leading to a small data breach that doesnt appear to include sensitive information about educators or students. Rather, an analysis of the leak suggests stolen files center primarily on campus maintenance work.

Previous data breaches following district ransomware attacks, such as the ones in Los Angeles and Minneapolis, have led to widespread disclosure of sensitive information, including student psychological evaluations, reports of campus rape cases, student discipline records, closely guarded files on campus security, employees financial records and copies of government-issued identification cards.

Though Walton was confident that similarly sensitive records had not been stored on the breached computer server, he told The 74 the Lower Yukon hack could have been far more disruptive had it been carried out just a few weeks later. Instead, they had a few remaining weeks of summer to restore their systems before their nearly 2,000 students returned.

It was an inconvenience for sure, but Ive seen a lot of data breaches over the years and ours is nothing comparable, Walton said. I couldnt imagine that happening when school starts because were all rushing to get all of the support tickets taken care of and making sure that school is starting off on the right foot. If it would have happened then, it would have been a whole different ball game.

This year, the return-to-school season kicked off with a warning from federal law enforcement about the growing threat that cyberattacks pose for school districts. During a cybersecurity summit at the White House in early August, federal officials warned the coming months could be particularly volatile. Harm isnt limited to victim districts but rather encompasses their employees, students and families whose sensitive records, including financial information, are vulnerable to data breaches.

Related

Trove of L.A. Students Mental Health Records Posted to Dark Web After Cyber Hack

WIth Social Security numbers and medical records stolen and shared online, such attacks have left classroom technology paralyzed and lessons ended, First Lady Jill Biden said. So if we want to safeguard our childrens futures, we must protect their personal data.

There isnt any hard data on the frequency that ransomware groups exploit back-to-school season compared to other times, said Doug Levin, the national director of the K12 Security Information eXchange. He said its also difficult to identify when attacks first begin, with threat actors sometimes infiltrating district servers months before the ransomware attack is initiated. That said, the existing evidence suggests about a quarter of cyber incidents affecting school districts appear to occur during those first few weeks and months of school. He said the chaos of getting technology into students hands and setting them up with new online accounts creates an ideal opportunity for criminals to catch district tech officials off guard.

With all of these new devices being deployed with all sorts of new tools and applications coming online, I certainly have heard reports of upticks in phishing attacks against school districts already, Levin said. Its definitely a time where you know people are more likely to make mistakes.

Similar concerns were included in a notice last month by the New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell, where officials warned that cybercriminals routinely exploit holiday breaks to target schools.

Threat actors take advantage of this pastime when staff is away or just prior to busy seasons, such as the beginning of the school year, long weekends or before the end of a marking period when final grades are due, the warning notes. Within the last few weeks, publicly announced ransomware attacks sharply increased.

The Rhysida ransomware gangs extortion efforts against the school district in Prince Georges County, Maryland, were temporarily suspended for several days, suggesting that negotiations were ongoing. (Screenshot)

Exclusive, unique and impressive

Following a common ransomware playbook in Prince Georges County, the Rhysida gang claimed the theft of sensitive documents, posting screenshots online showing birth certificates, passports and other records purportedly stolen from the district. Unless the district agreed to pay the group 15 bitcoin worth some $375,000, Rhysida threatened to publish the exclusive, unique and impressive data on its leak site.

Such negotiations appeared to expire by Tuesday morning: A trove of files purportedly stolen from the district were published to the cyber groups leak site, suggesting education leaders had refused to pay the ransom. The development comes after a ticker on the gangs leak site, meant to signify the districts approaching ransom payment deadline, was paused or delayed on several occasions.

A day after the district detected the breach on Aug. 14, it said in a statement that some 4,500 user accounts out of 180,000 were affected, forcing district employees to reset their passwords. Impacted individuals, the district said, will be contacted in the coming days.

The school system is offering free credit monitoring and identity protections to all staff, district spokesperson Meghan Gebreselassie said in an email Tuesday morning but declined to comment further. In a Sept. 1 update, the district said staff, students and their families would receive a year of free credit monitoring and identity protection services, acknowledging the attack may result in unauthorized disclosure of personal information.

We are working diligently to confirm the extent of information that was impacted by this incident, and we will move quickly to provide direct notice to those who are impacted once this determination is made, the statement says.

Yet special education advocate Ronnetta Stanley said the Prince Georges district hasnt done enough to keep the community in the loop about the attack and its potential effects on students and parents. The types of information that may have been breached, she told The 74, has not been clearly communicated. Special education records, which have been exposed in previous attacks like the one against the Los Angeles Unified School District near the start of the 2022-23 school year, could be at risk in Prince Georges County, she fears.

There have not been any specific details about exactly what was breached, who may have been affected by it and, then what is the remedy for what should be happening with compromising information? said Stanley, founder of the special education advocacy group Loud Voices Together. Not knowing what was leaked and who was affected, its difficult to say what the ramifications will be.

Related

Minneapolis Data Breach a Worst-Case Scenario after Ransomware Attack

The recent risk report by the University of Chicago researchers found that district leaders are frequently unaware of the peril that cyber gangs pose, often implement education technology tools without considering privacy implications and routinely endorse digital tools that present potential privacy issues. While banks and large corporations have become harder targets as they bolster their cybersecurity defenses, schools have fallen behind, said lead author Chanenson, a doctoral student studying computer science.

This is only going to get worse, he said, until we give schools the resources they need to up their defensive game.

Ransomwares long tail

Among the school districts listed on ransomware gang leak sites in August is the one in Edmonds, Washington  a development that for locals may feel like deja vu. The Akira group named Edmonds as being among its latest victims on Aug. 24, just six months after district officials announced that a data event was to blame for a two-week internet blackout in late January.

Data stolen in the winter 2023 breach, the district warned in February, could include names, Social Security numbers, student records, financial information and medical documents. The district is still analyzing the extent of the attack and plans to notify affected individuals once their review is finalized, district spokesperson Harmony Weinberg said in a Sept. 8 email to The 74.

Its unclear, however, whether the district was victimized a second time this summer, a development officials deny. Cybercriminals routinely target victims on multiple occasions  especially those that pay ransoms to retrieve stolen files. In Edmonds, the district recently became aware of a public allegation by the group believed to be responsible for our winter 2023 data security incident, Weinberg said.

We reviewed the districts network systems in relation to this data security incident, and found no evidence that any systems were infected with ransomware, Weinberg continued. Further, we are not aware of any malicious activity occurring within our network systems since the winter 2023 event.

The school district in Edmonds, Washington, was recently listed on a cyber crime gangs leak site, but the school system denies it was the victim of a recent ransomware scheme. (Screenshot)

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles and Minneapolis school districts continue to grapple with the fallout from cyberattacks that crippled their systems last school year and led to the widespread data breaches of sensitive records about students and educators. After the Los Angeles district was targeted in a back-to-school ransomware attack over Labor Day weekend last year, the nations second-largest school system kicked off this school year by announcing plans to borrow $166 million to bolster its cybersecurity defenses.

Seven months after Minneapolis Public Schools fell target to a cyberattack that it euphemistically called an encryption event, tens of thousands of individual victims are just beginning to learn their sensitive records were compromised as community members blast education officials for leaving them in the dark about key details.

On numerous occasions over the last several months, educators have complained to district officials that they were being targeted by fraudsters, according to email records obtained by The Daily Dot. I had my bank account drained last week and had $3 to my name, one person wrote in an email to Minneapolis schools. Another individual reported getting hit with a fraudulent $2,500 charge on a credit card, while parents reported receiving emails from unverified senders related to their childrens college financial aid.

In a Sept. 1 update on the Minneapolis district website, a breach notice said school officials undertook a time-intensive review to determine what information had been stolen, which included names, Social Security numbers, financial information and medical records.

Although it has been difficult to not share more information with you sooner, the accuracy and the integrity of the review were essential, the district notice notes. Meanwhile, a summary report released last week by the law firm Mullen Coughlin stated that the district had provided written notices to more than 105,000 people whose personal information had gotten caught up in the attack.

The documents were Minneapolis Public Schoolss first public comments on the attack since April 11.

Related

Schools Are Now the Leading Target for Cyber Gangs as Ransom Payments Encourage Attacks

Such disclosures often fall short in providing victims enough information to keep themselves safe, said Marshini Chetty, a University of Chicago associate professor focused on privacy and cybersecurity.

Disclosure is not enough because people may not fully realize what could actually happen and how their data can be misused, Chetty said. While victim districts routinely offer credit monitoring and other tools to mitigate financial crimes and fraud, she said its more challenging to remedy situations where sensitive information, like medical records or student disciplinary records, are disclosed.

A lot of times schools are reactive rather than proactive, she said. If district leaders arent doing enough to protect the data from being stolen in the first place, then its almost too late.

Sign up for the School (in)Security newsletter.

Get the most critical news and information about students' rights, safety and well-being delivered straight to your inbox.
Thousands of North Carolina residents living with HIV in North Carolina now have lower out-of-pocket expenses after Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina changed its pricing formula for dozens of HIV treatment medications.

The move came months after advocates accused the states largest health insurer of discriminating against these patients by placing nearly all standard HIV medications in drug tiers with the highest out-of-pocket costs.

In December, the HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute and North Carolina AIDS Action Network raised their concerns in letters to the federal health department and to N.C. Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey. They alleged the insurance giant intentionally made these medications unaffordable to dissuade people from enrolling in Blue Cross NC plans if they had HIV, which can be a costly condition for insurers. Blue Cross NC rebutted this claim.

Once a year, insurance companies release a list of prescription drugs they cover, known as a formulary, along with corresponding drug tiers. Generally, the higher the tier, the more patients should expect to pay out-of-pocket for the medication.

Insurers often place pricey, name-brand drugs in the highest tiers to encourage patients to opt for cheaper generic medications. However, for its 2022 and 2023 formularies, Blue Cross NC put not only name-brand HIV medications in its top tiers but also several inexpensive generic medications.

For example, the generic version of Truvada  used for HIV treatment and prevention  was in the second-highest tier despite costing about $1 per pill at some pharmacies. The only HIV medications on lower tiers either couldnt be used on their own or were no longer recommended, according to an analysis from the two advocacy groups.

Last month, Blue Cross NC published an update of its six-tier formularies that showed it had moved 48 HIV-treatment drugs to lower tiers since January. In an email Monday, Blue Cross NC said its clinical team changed these formulary tiers in April as part of a quarterly review process that also affected the tiers of certain non-HIV medications.

This change streamlined drug tiering across multiple drug and condition categories, and, as a result of the changes, some members may have lower out-of-pocket costs when purchasing a prescription, wrote Blue Cross NC spokesperson Sara Lang.

Law professor: Blue Cross practiced adverse tiering

However, HIV/AIDS advocates noted this shift was made four months after they had alerted government officials to Blue Cross NCs previous high-tier policy.

The formulary had dramatically changed, said Carl Schmid, executive director of the HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute. But that means people were paying more money all this time.

At the end of 2021, there were 35,632 North Carolina residents living with HIV, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. Black men had the highest rate of newly diagnosed HIV that year.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is the largest health insurer in the state.

In December, the HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute and North Carolina AIDS Action Network accused Blue Cross NC of violating a section of the Affordable Care Act, which bars providers from discriminating against patients based on race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. Its letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services was directed to the departments Office of Civil Rights.

Strategic drug tiering is common in the health care industry. A 2015 study from the New England Journal of Medicine found that a quarter of insurance companies used discriminatory drug tiering for HIV medications, which cost people with the condition several thousands more dollars per year than those enrolled in other plans.

Yet in North Carolina, Blue Cross has most aggressively practiced adverse tiering, said Allison Rice, an emeritus law professor at Duke University who publishes annual reports on HIV insurance coverage in the state.

Absolutely theyre the worst, she said in December, before Blue Cross recategorized its HIV-treatment medications. There is no other company that has all the HIV drugs essentially at 50% coinsurance. Under this coverage, patients paid half their health care costs after reaching their deductible.

The insurance company said it always makes decisions about tiers using clinical and cost information.

Blue Cross NC stands against discrimination of any kind, including discrimination based on health status, sexual orientation or gender identity, Lang said this week. The methodology used to determine tiers for our members medications remains consistent across health conditions.

Blue Cross responds to states questions

The North Carolina Department of Insurance, which reviews and negotiates insurance rates, initially reached out to Blue Cross NC on Dec. 12, four days after the advocates sent their complaint. The state department asked the insurer for a full explanation and justification of the companys position.

A week later, Blue Crosss corporate compliance division responded. The company highlighted that it had not placed all HIV medications on high drug tiers, including having one drug on Tier 1 and five drugs on Tier 2. Blue Cross also noted its medications for HIV prevention, though not treatment, were offered at a zero-dollar cost share for all members, regardless of which tier the drug is on for treatment.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina campus on University Drive in Durham, N.C. on Friday, January 6, 2023.

In February, NCDOI reached out to Blue Cross to ask whether its HIV medication tiering process was similar to the tiering systems used in individual market plans. The insurance company said its tier system is comparable, though added that the complexity of Blue Cross NCs formularies make direct comparison difficult.

In an interview this week with The News & Observer, NCDOI Spokesperson Jason Tyson said his department backed off from taking any potential further steps after learning the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services was handling the matter.

Were glad to see it resolved, and we didnt want to duplicate any efforts, Tyson said.

It is not clear what actions, if any, the federal health department took to address the complaint.

According to Lang, Blue Cross NC did not have any discussions with Health and Human Services before changing its tiers in April.

On Dec. 14, the federal departments Office for Civil Rights sent the HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute a letter confirming it would review the organizations concerns. Schmid said this was the only correspondence his organization received from the federal department.

The News & Observer asked Health and Human Services and its Office of Civil Rights if either reached out to Blue Cross NC regarding the advocates complaint. The federal department has not yet responded.
Growing up in Athens, many high school students feel like they know everything about the University of Georgia. They have taken annual field trips to sites across campus, attended summer camps, and have seen red and black throughout their lives.

But if they decide to attend the University of Georgia, local students are exposed to a new set of opportunities while remaining connected to their hometown.

I grew up in Athens, and UGAs campus was like a playground to me as a kid, said Daniel Garcia-Pozo, now a junior at UGA who graduated from Clarke Central High School. But coming to UGA, I felt like I could take the experiences and community from Athens along with the rigorous academic experience of UGA to go different places, both in and outside of Athens.

This year, four of the universitys Foundation Fellows, students who receive the universitys most prestigious academic scholarship, are graduates of the Clarke County School District. Freshman Ella Johnson and sophomore Hadiza Sarr graduated from Cedar Shoals, and Garcia-Pozo along with senior Theron Camp are Clarke Central High School alumni.

I applied to the Foundation Fellowship after learning about two Clarke Central students who were selected, Sarr said. I worked with one of them to help prepare for the interviews. Ive seen a lot of support for Clarke County students to go in that path.

The Foundation Fellowship, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, provides students with academic funding, stipends for travel-study, and research and conference grants. The fellows are connected to a network of talented students, who help each other learn about academic, cultural, and other enriching opportunities on campus.

Because of the Fellowship, I immediately walked onto campus knowing about more opportunities and cultural programs than other students would know, Johnson said. Camp concurred, noting the people and the insider network of information is incredibly useful.

In addition to these Fellows, many Athens students choose to attend UGA. This fall, 39 students from Clarke Central and Cedar Shoals High Schools enrolled in the universitys freshman class.

UGAs Office of Undergraduate Admissions works closely with the local high schools to recruit students. This year, the Admissions team has connected with local high school students on up to 20 different occasions, including hosting dual enrollment nights, visiting the high schools, and leading workshops on writing admissions essays, among others.

We want to work with our community, and we want to work with the students in our backyard, said David Graves, who was UGAs interim director of admissions.

Nursing school: Athens campus of Augusta University nursing school reopens after renovations

Though enrolled in the university, many local students find ways to remain connected to their community.

Garcia-Pozo serves as a volunteer tutor for ULead Athens, a program that he participated in as a high school student. Sarr has returned to Cedar Shoals High School to speak about the college applications process. She also volunteers as a poll manager for the Athens-Clarke County Board of Elections and is giving back to the community through the UGA Public Service and Outreach Student Scholars Program.

The students also offer context to their peers at UGA about Athens history and culture.

Ella Johnson, a freshman who graduated from Cedar Shoals High School, is taking a First-Year Odyssey course on the music, media, and culture in Athens. She is the only Athens native in the course that will take students to concerts and venues around town.

My professor was so excited that I was from here, she said. Its a new way to explore the city that Ive never done before.

Healing pets: UGA Pet clinic is expanding exam rooms, kennel space and more with $5 million grant

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Clarke County high school graduates become UGA Foundation Fellows
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer will have a familiar opponent on the November ballot, in what the 20-year mayor says will be his last hurrah.

After qualifying ended at noon, Dyer will officially face former city commissioner and mayoral candidate Sam Ings, fitness professional and first-time candidate Tony Vargas , and former state Senate candidate Steve Dixon.

Incumbent District 4 Commissioner Patty Sheehan has drawn two challengers, in Katie Koch and Randy Ross. While District 6 incumbent Bakari Burns will take on Rufus Hawkins in November.

In District 2, Commissioner Tony Ortiz was reelected without opposition.

Election Day is Nov. 7 in Orlando. If no candidate in any race gets more than 50% of the vote, the top two vote-getters would have a runoff on Dec. 5.

With the election cycle formally kicking off, Dyer, mayor since 2003, is flush with campaign cash, tallying more than $500,000 in traditional contributions and big-dollar sums from some of the regions biggest businesses in a committee supporting his reelection. Ings has raised $17,540, while Vargas and Dixon havent filed campaign reports yet as recent entrants to the race.

Theres a lot that I think I can finish up that Ive been working on for the whole of 20 years, which is getting SunRail to the airport,  the continued growth of Creative Village, the opportunities in the southeast at Lake Nona, Dyer said Thursday. Im just as excited today as I was 20 years ago.

But his opponents see an opportunity to topple the 20-year incumbent, taking aim at rising homelessness numbers and shootings downtown, as well as in neighborhoods.

Ings, who got 17% of the vote in his 2019 bid for mayor, said the city needs to deploy more of its police force to patrol neighborhoods to deter gang violence, specifically citing a drive-by shooting earlier this month in Carver Shores where a 6-year-old was killed and her mother was injured.

He also cited rising homelessness numbers and said hed create a comprehensive plan to treat mental health and substance abuse concerns.

How throughout all of his 20 years do we still have this problem, and its growing, Ings said. I plan to come in with a more comprehensive approach and plan to help the homeless become self-sufficient.

Vargas, who owns a fitness studio called The Healthy Human, said hes running in hopes of creating a more vibrant downtown with a strong small-business presence that centers around the University of Central Florida.

In the last three years, the downtown core has completely disintegrated, and I believe the current administration is 100% responsible, said Vargas, 60. I think the main reason why Buddy Dyer has failed to create a vibrant downtown core is because hes more focused on Orlando being the tourist capital of the world, and not on the quality of life for people in and near the downtown core.

Dyer said his administration has taken action to improve safety downtown, particularly late at night, with a plan requiring bars that pour liquor after midnight to contribute to the costs of off-duty police officers to patrol the area. Doing so prevented taxpayers from bearing the brunt of the added cost of security, he said.

He also said the city has dedicated the entirety of its $58 million in federal American Rescue Plan dollars for a once-in-a-generation effort to expand homeless services and build affordable housing.

Weve just made a once-in-a-generation investment to certainly influence what were doing to have the services to deal with homelessness and the folks who have fallen into homelessness, he said.
A wave of local ordinances banning needle exchange programs is sweeping south Placer County after a controversial application was submitted to state officials to offer home-delivery syringes.

The city of Rocklin approved an ordinance Tuesday, banning syringe exchange programs from operating in the city limits. The City Council unanimously adopted an urgency ordinance and a second ordinance in the event the urgency ordinance is challenged, according to the meeting.

City Council members raised concerns about the lack of transparency in the proposal submitted by Safer Alternatives through Networking and Education, known as SANE, which proposed distributing 200,000 syringes to addresses throughout Auburn, Loomis, Lincoln, Roseville and Rocklin.

Participants can request a discreet delivery through a designated phone line and expect a delivery the same or next business day, the application said. Home delivery and pick-up will be available in the southwest areas of Placer County.

The city of Lincoln met Tuesday to discuss SANEs application and give direction to city staff on whether to draft an urgency ordinance, according to the meeting agenda.

And the town of Loomis adopted an identical urgency ordinance to that approved by the Placer County Board of Supervisors in its Tuesday meeting.

The main reason for these ordinances to be in place is that there are current California laws or statutes that allow such a (syringe exchange) program ... to be enacted in the absence of any ordinance or law, so I think thats why the trend is growing in this region, said Lt. Josh Tindall of the Placer County Sheriffs Office to the Loomis Town Council. By no means necessarily does the passing of such an ordinance speak to the empathy or show a lack of empathy for anybody with any kind of substance abuse problem.

The Auburn City Council also adopted an urgency ordinance in its meeting Monday night. Auburn Police Chief Ryan Kinnan said he supported the ordinance in Mondays meeting, citing concerns about how dirty needles would be disposed of.

Theres a lot of concerns about this model and this program coming into the city of Auburn and the area in general, he said.

SANEs proposal has received significant pushback since Sheriff Wayne Woo and Probation Chief Marshall Hopper submitted a letter of opposition to state officials, saying it lacked transparency and evidence to support its practices.

Woo and Hopper also raised concerns about the unintended consequences of a needle exchange in Placer County. The letter cited examples of other needle exchange programs in Seattle and Santa Ana that did not require drug users to turn over dirty hypodermic needles, resulting in needles littering public spaces.

The Placer County Sheriffs Office is adamantly opposed to any program that normalizes and promotes illegal drug use in this County, the letter said.

Rosevilles City Council will next meet Wednesday. An agenda for the meeting will be posted early next week.
PORT ST. LUCIE  A local man whose son disappeared from a Carnival cruise ship over Labor Day weekend said Wednesday hes hoping for information.

Even if it's something for closure, Sean McGrath said. We just want to not get up every day and not know where he is or what happened to him.

Sean McGrath

McGrath spoke of his son, Kevin McGrath, 26, whom the elder McGrath last talked with the evening of Sept. 3.

Sean McGrath said about 43 friends and family members were on the three-day cruise to the Bahamas aboard the Carnival Conquest as part of his 60th birthday celebration.

I spoke to him around 10 p.m. and just went to the room to give him his luggage tags and tell him to meet us downstairs for breakfast about 7:30 a.m., Sean McGrath said.

Sean McGrath said his sons pass card was scanned entering the room he shared with his twin brother, Andre, about 3:30 a.m. on Sept. 4. They were on the Carnival Conquest cruise ship heading back to PortMiami.

Kevin McGrath (left), and his twin brother, Andre (right)

Sean McGrath didnt know what could have happened to his son.

At this point, I can't really say because it was verified that he did not go overboard, and he did not get off the ship via the (pass) being scanned, Sean McGrath said.

Sean McGrath said Kevin McGrath served six years in the U.S. Army and went to Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria. He is divorced and has two young children living with their mother in Tennessee.

I think the worst part of this all is if we never ever see him again, Sean McGrath said. I'm like 60 years old, I could possibly die soon and never know what happened. We basically just want some answers.

Without a trace

Ship staff and security searched the ship but were unsuccessful, Miami-Dade Police Department officials reported after Kevin McGrath disappeared.

The Miami-Dade Police Department on Sept. 4, 2023 released a missing persons flyer after Kevin McGrath, 26, of Port St. Lucie, vanished from the Carnival Conquest cruise ship during a 3-day family trip to the Bahamas.

The ships overboard detection system never went off, and there is no other evidence that Kevin McGrath went overboard, according to the MDPD.

Police spokesman Alvaro A. Zabaleta on Monday said the agencys Missing Persons Unit continues to work closely with the U.S. Coast Guard and Carnival Cruise Line, to obtain information that could develop viable leads that will assist in the investigation.

Citing the ongoing investigation, Zabeleta declined to say whether police officials have obtained or reviewed video Carnival cameras recorded aboard the Conquest.

Since Kevin McGrath vanished, his sister Danielle McGrath and other relatives in St. Lucie County have turned to Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to spread the word about him.

The unthinkable How easy is it to fall overboard on a cruise ship, and how can you survive?

A spokesperson for Carnival on Monday declined to respond to detailed questions about how the ships staff searched for Kevin McGrath and referred to a statement released after he was reported missing.

On Monday morning, (Sept. 4) after Carnival Conquest had returned to PortMiami, a guest reported a family member missing, spokesperson Matt Lupoli said via email. Our investigation continues, including multiple reviews of closed-circuit video footage and we are also cooperating with law enforcement and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Cruise ships have safeguards to prevent passengers from going overboard, and are required by the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010 to have rails that are "located not less than 42 inches above the cabin deck."

Danielle McGrath, of Fort Pierce, who was not on the ship, said Kevin was last seen by his twin brother Andre at around 2 a.m. on Labor Day Monday.

Cell phone footage last shows him dancing to live music on Sunday night.

At around 7:30 a.m. when Kevin McGrath didnt meet the family for breakfast, they searched for him and then reported him missing when everyone disembarked the ship.

He was nowhere to be found.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection told Carnival that Kevin McGrath was not detected during the debarkation process, NBC Miami reported.

Search yields nothing

The U.S. Coast Guard was notified around 11 a.m. on Sept. 4 and searched 3,300 square nautical miles with helicopters but found nothing, according to Petty Officer Ryan Estrada, in Miami.

We can confirm the case has been suspended, Estrada said Monday.

Several U.S. Coast Guard boats from Miami Beach and Fort Lauderdale also assisted in the 80-hour search, he said, along with officials from Miami-Dade Police, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

After the Coast Guard officials suspended the search on Thursday Sept. 7, Carnival officials told USA Today that Miami-Dade police cleared the Carnival Conquest to sail and said the Carnival Care Team is supporting the family.

Anyone with information should call the Miami-Dade Police Department's Special Victims Bureau at 305-715-3300 or Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477 (TIPS)

Cruise ship overboard detection systems: Why doesn't every ship have them?

I'm sick to my stomach: Coast Guard stops search for PSL cruise passenger who vanished

Florida real estate: More younger people are buying homes in St. Lucie County

Environmental Studies Center booster: Longtime activist Louise Carnevale has passed - and our community is poorer as a result

USA TODAY contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Kevin McGrath's family hopes for information about missing son
The latest television series from Yellowstone producer Taylor Sheridan brings the real history of frontier U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves to life on Paramount+. Called Lawmen: Bass Reeves, the series stars Executive Producer David Oyelowo as Reeves, along with Dennis Quaid, Barry Pepper and Donald Sutherland.

In the years following the Civil War , the Indian Territory (what we know as Oklahoma today) became the home of innumerable outlaws and gangs. Its chief law enforcement body was the Western District of Arkansas and by 1875, there was a new judge on the bench of that district: Isaac Parker.

Parkers first plan overseeing the lawless district was to bring the murderers, bandits, and thieves that overran the Indian Territory to justice. He was notorious among the outlaws for harsh sentencing. The only thing that was liberal about Judge Parker was his use of the death penalty, which earned him the moniker HanginJudge Parker.

He did it by hiring 200 new U.S. Marshals to enforce U.S. law in the Western District. The most famous among those new Marshals was Bass Reeves, a towering Black farmer who had escaped slavery during the Civil War and made his home among the tribes of the Indian Territory until President Abraham Lincoln announced the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863.

Reeves was born into slavery sometime in 1838. His last name came from the family of white slaveholders into which he was born and raised. The Reeves Family moved to Texas while Bass was a young boy, and when Texas joined the Confederacy, so did George Reeves , the familys oldest son. Common practice meant George Reeves would likely be taking a slave on campaign with him. He chose Bass.

Bass Reeves.

Somewhere along the way, Bass Reeves escaped from George and the Confederate Army. One of the most common stories attributed to his escape is that George and Bass were playing cards when they got into a heated argument. The war of words turned into a battle of fists, and when the large slave beat his master down, he made a break for freedom.

It wasnt just Reeves size that made him a good choice to be Marshal. The time he spent hiding out from Confederate slavers in the Indian Territory was put to good use. He learned to live off the land as the natives did. He learned to shoot with both a rifle and a pistol. He also learned his way around the territory the way the natives did. Upon becoming a free man, he moved to Arkansas and took up farming.

In 1875, a U.S. Marshal named James Fagan learned about Reeves and the time hed spent in the Indian Territory awaiting the outcome of the Civil War. Fagan recruited Reeves for Judge Parkers battle to bring the Indian Territory in line with U.S. Law. On May 10, 1875, the same day that Parker first sat on the bench, he swore Reeves in as a newly-minted U.S. Marshal.

Reeves would prove to be every bit as good as Fagan believed he would be. Over the next 32 years, Marshal Reeves would bring an estimated 3,000 outlaws back to Arkansas to be tried and sentenced in Parkers court.

Lawmen: Bass Reeves is part of a new anthology series on Paramount+ , meaning the next season of Lawmen will likely tell the story of a different Western lawman. But look for Bass Reeves story on the streaming platform starting Nov. 5, 2023.
A Russian fighter jet pilot tried to shoot down a Royal Air Force (RAF) surveillance plane in an incident last year, believing he had been authorized to fire, the BBC reported on Sept. 14, citing three senior Western defense sources.

The news outlet said that the RAF's RC-135 Rivet Joint with a crew of up to 30 was flying a surveillance mission over the Black Sea in international space on Sept. 29, 2022, when it encountered two Russian Su-27 Flanker fighters.

According to Russian communications intercepted by the Rivet Joint, one of the pilots received ambiguous orders from the ground that he mistakenly understood as permission to fire.

Subsequently, he fired an air-to-air missile against the British plane, but the projectile failed to lock on the target and missed, the BBC said.

Despite reprimands from the pilot of the second Su-27, the Russian aviator tried to launch a second missile, but it reportedly simply fell off the wing, suggesting malfunction or aborted launch.

At the time, the Russian Defense Ministry tried to explain the whole incident as a result of a "technical malfunction." Then Defense Secretary Ben Wallace called it a "potentially dangerous engagement" but accepted Moscow's explanation.

According to the so-called Pentagon Leaks published online in the spring, the U.S. intelligence described the incident as a "near shoot-down" that could have potentially amounted to an act of war.

NATO aircraft regularly patrol the Black Sea, which at times leads to incidents with the Russian Air Force. In March, a Russian Su-27 forced down an American MQ-9 Reaper drone over international waters of the Black Sea.

Read also: Russia to attempt to retrieve wreckage of US drone in Black Sea

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
By Brenda Goh and Ryan Woo

SHANGHAI/BEIJING (Reuters) -Beijing on Thursday blasted the launch of a probe by the European Commission into China's electric vehicle (EV) subsidies as protectionist and warned it would damage economic relations, a concern shared by Germany's car industry.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the investigation on Wednesday, accusing China of flooding global markets with electric cars at artificially low prices due to huge state subsidies.

The probe, which could result in punitive tariffs, has prompted analyst warnings of retaliatory action from Beijing and complaints from Chinese industry executives who say the sector's competitive advantage is not due to subsidies.

"(The investigation) is a naked protectionist act that will seriously disrupt and distort the global automotive industry and supply chain, including the EU, and will have a negative impact on China-EU economic and trade relations," China's Ministry of Commerce said in a statement.

"China will pay close attention to the EU's protectionist tendencies and follow-up actions, and firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies," it added.

Eurasian Group analysts warned that should Brussels ultimately levy duties against subsidised Chinese EVs, Beijing would likely impose countermeasures to hurt European industries.

The European Union's imposition of tariffs will depend on the degree of unity within the bloc.

France has called for such an investigation for months, part of a years-long campaign by President Emmanuel Macron for the EU to get tougher on trade and insist on a level playing field.

Other EU countries also see China as more of a rival than a partner and agree the bloc should be more assertive.

A decade ago Germany, wary of retaliation, opposed tariffs on Chinese solar panel imports, paving the way for a compromise with Beijing.

By contrast, German Economy Minister Robert Habeck said on Wednesday he welcomed the EU's latest action.

Germany's car industry, conscious that a trade war could hit its business in China, was more circumspect.

Mercedes Benz said protectionist measures were counterproductive and Bosch, the world's largest automotive supplier, said a race for punitive tariffs and trade barriers would only have losers.

"Chinese distortions of competition are a particular problem that Europe should tackle, but if possible not with excessive subsidies or new punitive tariffs at the end of a lengthy process," said Volker Treier, head of trade at the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK)

Some analysts said the probe should not pose a big risk for Chinese EV makers because they could turn to other growing markets like Southeast Asia.

The manufacturers have been accelerating export efforts as slowing consumer demand in China exacerbates production overcapacity.

Hong Kong-listed shares of Chinese EV makers pared initial losses, with market leader BYD closing down 1.2%. Smaller rivals Geely Auto and Nio fell 0.5% and 0.9%, respectively. Xpeng reversed losses to rise 0.4%.

Shanghai-listed shares of state-owned car giant SAIC, whose MG brand is the best-selling China-made brand in Europe, closed down 0.3%.

Nio and Geely declined to comment on the EU probe, while BYD, Xpeng and SAIC did not respond to requests for comment.

Shares in European carmakers were also among the biggest fallers on the euro zone stock index. BMW, Volkswagen, Mercedes and Stellantis were down by between 0.7% and 1.7% at 1425 GMT.

In its first response to the probe, Stellantis said it welcomed "fair competition which drives innovation and performance across our industry globally for the benefit of citizens and our customers".

STRAINED RELATIONS

The anti-subsidy probe, initiated unusually by the European Commission and not from any industry complaint, comes amid broader diplomatic strains between the EU and China.

Relations have become tense due to Beijing's ties with Moscow after Russian forces swept into Ukraine, and the EU's push to rely less on the world's second-largest economy.

The EV probe will set the tone for talks ahead of the annual China-EU Summit, due to take place before year-end, with the EU pushing for a rebalancing of trade. EU trade chief Valdis Dombrovskis will travel to China later this month.

GROWING MARKET SHARE

EU officials believe Chinese EVs are undercutting the prices of local models by about 20% in the European market, piling pressure on European automakers to produce lower-cost EVs.

The Commission said China's share of EVs sold in Europe had risen to 8% and could reach 15% in 2025.

Underscoring challenges facing established European automakers, Volkswagen is looking at cutting staff at its all-electric plant in eastern Germany, the dpa news agency reported on Wednesday.

In 2022, 35% of all exported electric cars originated from China, according to U.S. think-tank the Center for Strategic and Internal Studies (CSIS), with most destined for Europe. The single largest exporter from China is U.S. giant Tesla.

(Reporting by Donny Kwok in Hong Kong, Brenda Goh in Shanghai, Ryan Woo in Beijing, Victoria Waldersee in Frankfurt and Philip Blenkinsop in BrusselsWriting by Anne Marie RoantreeEditing by Jamie Freed, Sharon Singleton and Mark Potter)
The Armed Forces of Belarus are scheduled to conduct combined drills at the end of September.

Source: Belaruski Hajun [an independent Belarusian military monitoring media outlet]

Quote: "At the end of September, the Armed Forces of the Republic of Belarus are planning to hold bilateral combined drills. This was reported by Valery Revenko the head of the Department of International Military Cooperation of the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Belarus, at the end of August. According to the official, OSCE member states have been informed about the future exercises within the framework of the 2011 Vienna Document."

Details: Several mechanised brigades will be involved in the training. Active preparation is currently underway. In particular, the availability and condition of equipment, weapons and military equipment are being examined.

"According to our information, units of the 336th Rocket Artillery Brigade (armed with Smerch and Polonez anti-aircraft missile defence systems) have already begun to move to the area of the exercise," analysts say.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Sept. 14 (UPI) -- A Belarusian citizen living in Miami has agreed to forfeit nearly $5 million and pleaded guilty to participating in a scheme to purchase metal goods from a sanctioned oligarch.

Before U.S. Magistrate Judge Embry Kidd in an Orlando, Fla., court room, Sergey Karpushkin, 46, pleaded guilty Wednesday to one count each of conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Power Act and to commit money laundering, each of which are punishable with up to five years' imprisonment.

As part of the plea, he has also agreed to hand over $4.7 million in proceeds he earned as part of the conspiracy.

Karpushkin was charged in an indictment unsealed in April for being involved in a three-year conspiracy during which he, along with at least one other co-conspirator, purchased more than $139 million in metal products, such as pig iron, steel billets and wire rods, from companies owned by 37-year-old Ukrainian oligarch Sergey Kurchenko.

Kurchenko was designated by the U.S. Treasury in 2015 over connections to the deposed pro-Russia Ukrainian government of disgraced President Viktor Yanukovych, the misappropriation of public assets and the undermining of democratic processes in Ukraine.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, Kurchenko has come under sanctions imposed by the European Union, Britain and Japan.

In the EU's sanctioning note from April last year, the 27-member bloc accuses Kurchenko of having taken control of several large metallurgical, chemical and energy locations in separatist-held areas of Ukraine with the support of pro-Russia separatists.

He also owns the largest oil depot on the Russia-occupied Crimean Peninsula, where the EU said he strengthened independent power suppliers.

Court documents state that Karpushkin and his co-conspirator used Florida-based Metalhouse LLC to enter into contracts with Kurchenko's businesses and intentionally concealed from U.S. banks and government officials the source and origin of the metal goods they acquired.

His co-conspirator was named in the indictment unsealed in April as Metalhouse president John Van Unsalan, who has been charged with one count of conspiring to violate and evade U.S. sanctions, 10 counts of violating IEEPA, one count of conspiring to commit international money laundering and 10 counts of international money laundering.

The investigation was conducted through the Justice Department's Task Force KleptoCapture, which was launched in March 2022 to enforce sanctions, export controls and other punitive measures imposed by the United States and democratic allies against oligarchs and their companies in the wake of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Its official, Bella Hadid can pull off any look.

In Marc Jacobs new jaw-dropping photos for its Heaven fall 2023 collection, the 26-year-old supermodel was pictured bare - shaved head and all. Her skin appeared smooth without a single hair in sight, as she posed in the futuristic universe crafted by the mind of Jacobs and photographer Carlijn Jacobs.

Rather than formatting her sleek long locks to fit the concept of the collection, the team started with a clean slate, swiping Hadids hair and eyebrows. While her head remained bald, the brands muse could be seen with reconfigured dark brows angled upward.

In the campaign, Hadid was placed on an entirely different planet with armour inspired by Marc Jacobs iconic Kiki Boots. The fall 2023 collection pays homage to the cult favourite Kiki Boot with the introduction of the Kiki Group, an assortment of ready-to-wear and accessories, the fashion brand said in an official statement.

With a long, spiraling silver tube seemingly coming out of her spine, the Dutch-Palestinian runway star celebrates the dominatrix essence of the platform boot. The campaign image also paid special attention to Hadids oversized wired ear cuff, which retails for $150, as she sat nude in front of the camera.

Just five months ago, Hadid candidly spoke about her 15-year struggle with Lyme disease after taking five-month break to seek treatment at a wellness center in California. On 6 August, she posted a carousel of photos of herself in a doctors chair with an IV in her arm.

The little me that suffered would be so proud of grown me for not giving up on myself, Hadid wrote on Instagram. Living in this state, worsening with time and work while trying to make myself, my family and the people who support me, proud, had taken a toll on me in ways I cant really explain.

Bald and bold Bella Hadid for HEAVEN By Marc Jacobs FW23 campaign  pic.twitter.com/E5iQTY4wrf  La Mode Unknown (@LaModeUnknown) September 9, 2023

To be that sad and sick with the most blessings/privilege/opportunity/love around me was quite possibly the most confusing thing ever. One thing I want to express to you all is that one: I am OK and you do not have to worry, and two: I wouldnt change anything for the world, Hadid continued. I have so much gratitude for and perspective on life.

In addition to Lyme disease, Hadid has also endured chronic disease and co-infection treatment.

Almost 15 years of invisible suffering was all worth it if Im able to, God willing, have a lifetime of spreading love from a full cup and being able to truly be myself, for the first time ever, she said.
Attorneys for the re-election campaign of Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear are demanding Louisville and Lexington television stations pull a new materially false ad attacking the incumbent for a 2020 commutation order during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The video  paid for by the School Freedom Fund political action committee, which has endorsed GOP challenger Daniel Cameron  originally claimed Beshear commuted the sentence of James Hamlin, a Covington man who was facing criminal charges in early 2020 for sodomy and incest.

James Hamlin sodomized a young child, only six years old, the ad narrator says. He was arrested and thrown behind bars where he belongs until Andy Beshear turned him loose, released back into the community with a year. What Kentucky child is safe when their governor lets monsters like Hamlin roam free? When Beshear puts deviant predators before innocent kids, its not just wrong; its unforgivable.

In actually, Hamlin was never freed from behind bars.

In a letter to station managers and provided to the Herald-Leader by the Beshear campaign, attorney Jon S. Berkon wrote the crux  that Governor Beshear released Hamlin back into the community after only a year  is false.

The entire premise of this ad is based on a falsehood; it should be removed from your station immediately, Berkon wrote.

Hamlin did appear on an April 10, 2020, commutation of sentence executive order signed by Beshear. However, the offense that placed Hamlin on that list was not for sodomy, but a 2018 case of intimidating a witness in a legal process, a Class D felony.

The commutations on that list were for the sentences of 697 inmates who are currently serving sentences for non-violent, non-sexual offenses set to expire on or before September 30, 2020.

Court records also show that between his late 2018 indictment and early 2020 sentence in the witness intimidation case, Hamlin was charged in a 2019 case for first-degree sodomy involving a victim under 12 years of age and incest. According to his arrest citation by the Covington Police Department, Hamlin was arrested May 30, 2019, for a rape of a 6 year old.

Department of Corrections documents included with Berkons letter show Hamlin was received in corrections custody on January 27, 2020 for the earlier Class D felony offense, and remained in custody until July 1, 2020, at which point he was returned to the Kenton County Detention Center. That same day, Hamlin appeared in Kenton Circuit Court, at which point he pleaded guilty to the sodomy and incest charges from the 2019 indictment, according to the final judgment document in court records.

On Sept. 17, 2020, Hamlin was sentenced to 25 years in prison each on the rape and incest charges, with the sentences to be served concurrently. According to the Kentucky Online Offender Lookup, Hamlin is currently housed at Luther Luckett Correctional Complex and expected to be in prison until October 2044, with parole eligibility in October 2039.

Morgan Hall, communications director for the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet, confirmed the timeline laid out in Berkons letter to station managers.

He was initially serving a sentence for the crime of Intimidating a Participant in a Legal Process when he was eligible for a pandemic commutation in April 2020 for only this conviction. But, prior to his conviction for Intimidating a Participant in a Legal Process, Hamlin was indicted in 2019 for other crimes in Kenton County, Hall said. In July 2020, the Department of Corrections gave custody of Hamlin to the Kenton County Detention Center based on those pending 2019 charges. He thus stayed in the same jail and was convicted of those 2019 charges in September 2020 and sentenced to 25 years in prison.

Hamlin remained in custody the entire time and was never released to the public.

The School Freedom Fund did not respond to questions emailed by the Herald-Leader Tuesday evening.

The ad challenged by the Beshear campaign does not publicly appear on the School Freedom Fund website, but is posted to AdImpact, which tracsk political advertisements.

The PAC, which is affiliated with the Club For Growth, has promoted a re-cut version of the Hamlin ad online with a significant change to the script.

After the ad introduces Hamlin like in the first ad, it instead now says he was arrested and thrown behind bars where he belongs, yet Andy Beshear signed an order intended to release Hamlin from jail.

The Beshear campaign, however, maintains that the re-cut ad is still untrue as the commutation order was not for the criminal case at the center of the School Freedom Fund ad.

The School Freedom Fund has released several ads going after Beshear, including on his COVID-19 commutations.
OFP is what Marines and some other branches refer to as 'Own F'ing Program'. It's a more elevated form of S.K.A.T.E., usually insulated from BS due to one's rank or time in service. If you are unfamiliar with the acronym it stands for: Seek cover, Keep a low profile, Avoid working parties, Take no initiative, and Evade all higher ups. Essentially, OFP is when you can safely, openly skate and no one has the authority or the balls to confront you. It's the equivalent of a Terminal Lance but with the knife hands of a SNCO (staff non-commissioned officer). Everybody asks where Lance Corporal Shmuckatelli is during his check out process but everyone sleeps on the SgtMaj popping smoke who is about to retire. Even if you did catch a SNCO skating , what is anyone going to do about it? They're OFP with a list of this week's best memes.

scod meme

Hurry up and wait...and wait...and wait...

warrant officers in space force meme

Wait. What if Space Marines are Marines we taught how to read and that's how we get a fleet of expendable educated space warriors?

policy and procedures

There is the right way of doing things and our way of doing things.

marines can't be happy meme

Give them a new lounge in the barracks and lock that mfer for 99% of the time.

dysentery meme

Bet you won't eat that corpse.

red cross message ofp meme

Wait until SgtMaj decides to piggyback on what the CO says after formation but in a completely new and stupid way.

infantry OFP meme

This one got a guttural laugh from me. This is exactly what happened to me at Camp Lejeune one winter when the whole base got locked down and everything was canceled, except our field op. In fact, I have a picture of a hump we did to one of the ranges. At least we looked cool before our LT decided to have us freeze outside for the night...in a MOUT town...with buildings and heat. No, the rest of the company went in the buildings. We stayed outside due to hubris and his Yale degree.

marines low asvab meme

A family member enrolled in High School this year and one of the questions they asked is if their records could be forwarded to the military to aid in recruitment. We checked "no." They got me and that's it. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200.

promotion rate meme

Legend has it he Blue Falcon'd so hard it was even meritorious.

OFP meme

Life was so full of positivity and opportunity your first two years in. Everything is new and full of life. Once you're promoted enough times, you know too much. Seen too much. Done too much. Your seabag full of Fs is empty and supply is not reimbursing a thing.
A Bethel man was sentenced to five years in prison Wednesday for disposing of the body of another man who died from an overdose early last year, officials said.

The sentencing came after Zachary Scott, 31, pleaded guilty to gross abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence, the Clermont County Prosecutor's Office said Thursday in a news release.

Scott, 51-year-old Shane Bruce and two other people drove to Cincinnati to buy heroin, prosecutors said. After they came back to Clermont County, and the two other passengers were dropped off, Bruce overdosed and died while with Scott.

Scott then left Bruce's body in a location that remains unknown and misdirected the investigation into Bruce's disappearance by providing several false locations to authorities, the prosecutor's office said.

On Jan. 21, 2022, Scott called 911 and said Bruce overdosed at the 2400 block of Laurel Point Isabel Road in Washington Township, then reported that Bruce "took off" after he administered a dose of Narcan, according to the Clermont County Sheriff's Office.

A look back: 'They passed as many as 3 hospitals.' What's wrong with Good Sam 911 overdose laws?

Deputies searched the area but didn't find Bruce, officials said, adding his parents reported him missing the next day.

Two days after the reported overdose, Scott admitted to investigators that he lied in his 911 call, saying instead that Bruce actually ran off near the 1600 block of Beckelhymer Road in Moscow, Ohio, a criminal complaint states. Scott told a detective that he searched in the cold for Bruce for several hours but never found the man.

The sheriff's office said in court filings that Scott's later statements to detectives were misleading as well and that Scott also denied going to Cincinnati to buy drugs, though Bruce's phone records and witness statements proved otherwise.

In the months after Bruce went missing, detectives searched throughout Washington Township using drones, bloodhounds and cadaver dogs, but each time they came up empty-handed.

"Unfortunately, no amount of prison time will truly hold Scott accountable for the pain and suffering that he has caused," Clermont County Prosecutor Mark Tekulve said in a statement. "We have reserved the right to prosecute Scott, should new evidence come to light that points to additional crimes."

Ohio's Good Samaritan Law grants immunity to prosecution for a minor drug possession or drug paraphernalia offense for the person who overdosed and the person who called 911 to seek help.

State officials say it's important to call 911 because naloxone, commonly known by a brand, Narcan, can wear off and lead someone to start overdosing again.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Bethel man gets 5 years for leaving person's body after OD death
Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito extended a pause Thursday on a ruling that limits the ability of the White House and other key federal agencies to communicate with social media companies about content related to Covid-19 and elections the government views as misinformation.

In a brief order, Alito said he was issuing a stop-gap pause on the ruling until September 22, granting a request the administration had asked for earlier Thursday. The request is part of the governments effort to undo an injunction issued last week by the conservative US Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit.

Alito also asked the GOP attorneys general and individual plaintiffs challenging the administrations actions related to social media content moderation to respond to the request for a more lasting pause by next Wednesday. The 5th Circuit had paused its order  issued last Friday  through September 18 to give the administration time to seek relief from the Supreme Court.

The order was issued by Alito because he is assigned to oversee matters arising from the 5th Circuit.

Though the injunction the administration is seeking to undo is a scaled back version of a more restrictive trial court order, it still puts strict limitations on the governments ability to interact with social media platforms.

The injunction applies to the White House, the surgeon general, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the FBI.

The implications of the Fifth Circuits holdings are startling, Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar wrote in court papers Thursday.

The court imposed unprecedented limits on the ability of the Presidents closest aides to use the bully pulpit to address matters of public concern, on the FBIs ability to address threats to the Nations security, and on the CDCs ability to relay public health information at platforms request, Prelogar added.

Missouri and Louisiana attorneys general as well as several individual plaintiffs filed the lawsuit last year, alleging that the governments efforts to combat online misinformation about Covid-19 and US elections amounted to a form of unconstitutional censorship.

In its recent order, the 5th Circuit significantly cut back the wide-reaching preliminary injunction issued by the lower court in July, which effectively blocked a slew of federal agencies and administration officials from communicating with social media companies about taking down content containing protected free speech posted on the platforms.

In issuing the modified order, the appeals court said the earlier injunction was both vague and broader than necessary, and narrowed its scope to a few agencies that it said likely violated the First Amendment when they leaned on platforms to moderate some content.

Under the modified injunction, the enjoined Defendants cannot coerce or significantly encourage a platforms content-moderation decisions. Such conduct includes threats of adverse consequences  even if those threats are not verbalized and never materialize  so long as a reasonable person would construe a governments message as alluding to some form of punishment, the 5th Circuit panel wrote.

This story and headline have been updated with additional information.

CNNs Tierney Sneed and Brian Fung contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The morning after House Speaker Kevin McCarthy launched an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden over his son's business dealings, the White House released a 16-page memo explaining why the inquiry was groundless.

"Virtually every single allegation that House Republicans have suggested would be the basis for pursuing impeachment have been refuted," Ian Sams, a senior advisor to the President and spokesperson for the White House Counsels Office, wrote in the memo.

Yet to some prominent Democrats who intend to spend the coming months defending Biden against the impeachment effort, there is another point worth making: what about Jared Kushner ?

Former President Donald Trumps son-in-law, who served as a senior adviser during his administration, has drawn increased scrutiny since, months after leaving the White House, his private equity firm secured a $2 billion investment from a fund led by the Saudi crown prince, a close ally during the Trump administration. Its an issue that many Biden supporters argue is far more concerning than the questions Republicans have raised about whether the President might have profited off deals negotiated by Hunter Biden .

Some colleagues from across the aisle have explicitly said that the Kushner family has engaged in business dealings that may have crossed the ethical line, and I agree, yet they refuse to act, Rep. Robert Garcia, a California Democrat and member of the Oversight Committee, said on the House floor Tuesday. Is this the same party thats obsessed with President Bidens family?

The call to investigate Kusher is not new in Congress, but it appeared to receive new life after House Republican leadership launched its impeachment inquiry on Tuesday. Last year, while Democrats still controlled the House, the Oversight Committee began investigating Kushner to uncover more information about the Saudi governments investment in his firm. The investigation, while ongoing, has shown little activity since Republicans took control of the House this year.

But that hasnt stopped some Democratic lawmakers from using this moment to connect the Biden impeachment inquiry with calls to investigate Kushner. The reason why were turning up the heat is the hypocrisy, Garcia tells TIME. While he stressed that his push to investigate Kushner is not in direct response to the Biden impeachment inquiry, he also didnt avoid connecting the two issues. I mean, this is a Speaker in the House majority that wants to impeach the President for absolutely no reason when theres zero link to any sort of wrongdoing yet theyre not willing to investigate a grift thats right in front of us. And so I think thats just really hypocritical.

Kushner has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, and his office disputes the comparison to Hunter Biden. Jared was a successful businessman before entering politics, achieved historic peace and trade agreements, and like many before him, he re-entered business after serving for free in the White House, where he fully complied with the Office of Government Ethics rules, a Kushner spokesperson says. The chief legal officer for Kushners investment firm, Affinity Partners, Chad Mizelle says, No one has ever pointed to a specific legal or ethical guideline that Jared or Affinity has violated.

The efforts to compare corruption claims against Bidens family to those of Trumps are all but certain to continue over the coming months. But it may not come from the White House or Democratic leaders, who have been laser-focused this week on the argument that Republicans are trying to make Biden only the fourth president to be impeached without evidence to back up their claims. The White House did not respond to a request for comment for this story.

Rep. Robert Garcia speaks during a House Oversight hearing in Washington, DC, in July. Haiyun JiangBloomberg via Getty Images

Leslie Dach, a senior adviser to the Congressional Integrity Project, a group founded to push back on House Republicans investigations, says Democrats strategy in addressing the inquiry should largely continue to center on calling out House Republicans lack of evidence against Biden. But he also thinks theres room to highlight their hypocrisy.

Asked what Democrats need to do to respond most effectively to the inquiry, Dach says, What they are doing, which is to repeatedly point out the lies that these accusations are built on, which are now obvious. And also to remind voters that this is not what they want their elected representatives to do. They want their elected representatives to address their real problems.

On Wednesday, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy appeared to defend the impeachment inquiry on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, writing that Americans deserved to know that the federal government is not being used to cover up the actions of a politically-connected family. Rep. Don Beyer, a Virginia Democrat, was among the many on the social network who cited McCarthys post to raise questions about Kushners business dealings.

When asked if he thinks Democrats should continue to respond to the Biden impeachment inquiry by calling out Kushner, Beyer clarified to TIME that the most important point Democrats should make is that Republicans have not found any evidence that President Biden did anything wrong.

Nine months of hearings, witness interviews, subpoenaed documents and bank recordsnot to mention a five-year Department of Justice investigation begun under President Trumptell a consistent story: the Republicans wild claims of misconduct are baseless and false, Beyer says.

During his time in the White House, Kushner had helped broker $110 billion in weapons sales to Saudi Arabia over 10 years, despite objections from Congress over the murder of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi and the humanitarian catastrophe created by the Saudi-led military intervention in Yemen. In a memoir published last year, Kushner detailed his frequent efforts to engage with the Saudi crown prince regarding significant U.S. foreign policy matters, such as oil prices. These overtures by Kushner generated significant discord within the Trump administration, leading to allegations from then-Secretary of State Rex Tillerson that the President's son-in-law was undermining his authority.

Some Republicans have criticized Kushner, but an investigation into the former presidents son-in-law appears all but dead in Washington for now. Rep. James Comer, the Kentucky Republican who chairs the Oversight Committee and is tasked with co-leading the impeachment inquiry into Biden, has continued to push allegations that the current president is the mastermind of the Biden crime family and the recipient of bribes from foreign oligarchs, despite a lack of evidence showing Biden profited from his familys business dealings.

For several months, Democrats have been urging Comer to subpoena Kushners investment firm for key documents regarding his receipt of billions of dollars from Gulf monarchies, hoping to fight fire with fire and investigate Trumps son-in-law while Bidens son is being investigated.

I do not for a minute expect the Republicans to investigate the Trump family or Jared Kushners inappropriate financial relationship with the Saudis, Beyer says. But Republicans decision to kill the Oversight Committees investigation into that relationship shows that nothing the Republicans are doing is really about accountability or corruptionits just partisan politics at its worst.

Comer acknowledged in an interview with CNN last August that Kushner crossed the line of ethics by accepting $2 billion from the Saudi government in his private investment firm after leaving his White House position, but has not committed to an investigation.

"It happened after he left office, and Jared Kushner actually has a legitimate business, Comer added. This money [to] the Bidens happened while Joe Biden was vice president while he was flying to those countries.

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, a sharp Trump critic who is running a long-shot bid for the GOP presidential nomination, joined the calls to investigate Trumps family on Tuesday when asked about the Biden impeachment inquiry. Look, the last two presidencies have been, what appears to the American people to be, in some respects, kind of an ongoing grift, Christie said at a SiriusXM town hall in New Hampshire. I mean, you know, youve got Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump making 40-plus million dollars a year while theyre serving in the White House. And then Jared leaves the White House and gets $3 billion  $2 billion from the Saudis, and a half-a-billion each from the Qataris and the Emiratis, after the president had put him in a major role on Middle East negotiations.

The efforts to redirect the impeachment question to Trump from others is contrasted with the White House and top Democratic leaders, who maintained that their key argument was that House Republicans have launched an impeachment inquiry against the President despite finding no wrongdoing against him.

After nearly 9 months of investigating, House Republicans havent been able to turn up any

evidence of the President doing anything wrong, Sams wrote in his memo to reporters. But House Republicans led by Marjorie Taylor Greene are nonetheless opening a baseless impeachment inquiry of President Bidendespite many House Republicans openly admitting there is no evidence on which to support it.

Asked about Garcia raising an investigation into Kushner, Dach says, What it shows is the hypocrisy of McCarthy and his crew. First, of course, McCarthy's hypocrisy of plowing ahead without a vote, which he spent months yelling about only a few years ago, but also his hypocrisy in ignoring quite clear violations and ethical indiscretions by the Trump family and the President himself. But, you know, this is not a comparison. What they're doing is built on conspiracy theories, lies, and there's not a shred of evidence of any high crime or any sort of misdemeanor by the President.

With reporting by Mini Racker

Write to Nik Popli at nik.popli@time.com.
U.S. President Joe Biden appointed Penny Pritzker , as the first-ever special representative for Ukraines economic recovery.



It's the "next step to help Ukraine forge a stronger future," the White House announced on Sept. 14.

Pritzker, an entrepreneur and former commerce secretary, has been appointed to the role due to her decades of experience in business, Biden said. Her family found a business empire, which includes the Hyatt hotel group.

Pritzker has "deep familial ties to Ukraine," he added.

Pritzker's tasks will include mobilizing foreign investments, supporting the re-opening businesses shut down by Russian attacks, and helping Ukraine grow its exports, Biden said.

Read also: Kenneth Rogoff: Europe must lead Ukraines reconstruction

Biden also said that the special representative will support the Ukrainian government make "reforms needed to strengthen its economy."

Pritzker plans to travel to Ukraine "in the coming weeks", the New York Times reported, to to meet with Ukraine's political and business leaders.

The appointment of Pritzker "demonstrates our commitment to strengthen Ukraines European future," U.S. State Secretary Antony Blinken said in his own statement.

Pritzker will "see to it that Ukraine not only survives but thrives, standing on its own," he added.

Reconstruction amidst ongoing Russian attacks was one of the topics on the agenda when Blinken visited Kyiv on Sept. 6.

At the Yalta European Strategy (YES) Conference in Kyiv on Sept. 8-9, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said that while the war is not over, Ukraines economy has kept going, and reconstruction has started.

The World Bank published estimates in March 2023 that the cost of Ukraine's reconstruction and economic recovery will be around $400 billion.

Read also: Ukraine Business Roundup  Issue 1

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
WASHINGTON  With the nations auto workers threatening to walk off the job at midnight Thursday, the Biden administration is preparing to offer emergency economic aid to auto suppliers to protect them from any long-term damage in the event of a prolonged strike, according to published reports.

The Washington Post, citing anonymous sources aware of internal conversations, said Biden aides are worried that a protracted strike could wipe out thousands of suppliers that depend on businesses from three key automakers, Ford, General Motors and Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler.

The paper said it was not clear what aid might be offered, but that one option would be for the Labor Department to provide grants to help workers at firms affected by the strike. Another could be for the Small Business Administration to provide favorable loans to these firms.

Reuters also reported that an emergency aid package was under consideration.

The White House and the United Auto Workers declined to comment.

The big walkout: Can the UAW afford to strike all three Detroit automakers?

Auto workers are threatening to walk off the job when their contract expires at midnight Thursday

The UAW, which represents around 146,000 workers, and Detroits Big Three automakers have been unable to reach an agreement on a new contract, raising the possibility of the first simultaneous strike against the three car manufacturers in the union's 80-year history.

The UAW is demanding an immediate 20% raise for workers, followed by another four raises at 5% each. Altogether, hourly pay would increase by 46% spanning the four-year contract. Workers are also asking for a shift back to pensions, reinstated cost-of-living adjustments, a 32-hour workweek and elimination of compensation tiers, among other things.

The two sides have until 11:59 p.m. Eastern on Thursday before the contract expires. While its possible that all UAW members could walk off the job, the union has said it will begin by striking at a limited number of plants.

A strike could deal a serious blow to the U.S. economy, which is still feeling the strains from the coronavirus pandemic. An analysis by the Anderson Economic Group consulting firm suggested a 10-day strike could result in a total economic loss of more than $5 billion.

A strike also could test President Joe Bidens claim that he is the most pro-union president in history.

Biden spoke Thursday with UAW President Shawn Fain and leaders of the major auto companies to discuss the status of the ongoing negotiations, the White House said.

The White House would not say whether Biden would intervene in the event of a strike but stressed that he has encouraged the parties to stay at the table and work around the clock to get an agreement.

The president believes in collective bargaining, has encouraged sides to continue to have that conversation, to continue to be at the table, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Wednesday. And thats what the president is going to continue to do.

Michael Collins covers the White House. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter, @mcollinsNEWS.

Explainer: With UAW strike looming, contract negotiations may lead to costlier EVs. Here's why

Auto worker walkout: Are salaried workers required to cross a picket line during a labor strike? What happens.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden may aid suppliers if United Auto Workers strike
U.S. President Joe Biden has appointed Penny Pritzker as the U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine's Economic Recovery, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Sept. 14.

Pritzker will be tasked with coordinating international efforts to help boost Ukraines recovery.

Read also: U.S. will transfer assets seized from sanctioned Russian oligarchs to Ukrainian veterans  Blinken

She will work with Ukraines government, international partners, and the private sector to accelerate Ukraine's economic transformation, Blinken said in a Twitter post.

Read also: Ukraines wartime economy continues to adapt and recover  GDP grows by 2.4% in Q1  Economy Minister

A former U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Pritzker also comes from a family with Ukrainian roots.

Read also: World Bank allocates additional $1.76 billion to Ukraine's recovery

On June 21, Blinken previously said the United States would offer more than $1.3 billion towards Ukraine's economic recovery.

Additionally, Ukraine is already benefitting from multi-billion financial assistance programs from the International Monetary Fund and the European Union.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
President Biden mourned the loss of Eugene Buzzy Peltola, the husband of Rep. Mary Sattler Peltola (D-Alaska), in a statement Wednesday.

Spend even a minute with Mary and youll feel the love she has for her state and its people, and most of all, the love she has for her husband and their seven children, Biden said. Buzzy was a devoted public servant and in the tributes coming from all over the state today, he is being remembered as a friend to all. But we know he was, first and always, the adored and devoted husband and father to a family now in pain.

Buzzy died following a plane accident early Wednesday, Peltolas office announced. He previously served as the regional director of the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Biden remarked that first lady Jill Biden met Buzzy during a visit to Alaska in May.

The president was with Peltola on Monday during a visit to Alaska. She flew with the President on Air Force One back to Washington.

Today, I spoke with her with that world shattered in shock and sadness. To the family  such a loss is cruel and unfair, and the first hours, days, and weeks will be the hardest, Biden said. But we hope you remember that he will always be with you. And we pray the day will come when his memory will bring a smile to your lips before it brings a tear to your eyes. It will take time, but that day will come.

In the difficult time ahead, we keep you in our prayers, he added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks on his economic agenda at Prince George's Community College in Largo, Maryland

By Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden told top American rabbis on Thursday that he felt antisemitism has "risen to record levels" and was a big challenge for the entire country, while also taking a dig at Republican former President Donald Trump over the issue.

"Antisemitism has risen to record levels," Biden said in a call with U.S. rabbis to commemorate the Jewish High Holidays.

"In the past several years, it has been given too much oxygen," Biden added.

The Democratic president said in the call that the 2017 "Unite the Right" white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, made him decide that he should run for president.

The rally followed months of protests over the city's plan to remove a statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee. Hundreds of white nationalists traveled to Charlottesville in August 2017, with some marching on the University of Virginia campus carrying torches and chanting "Jews will not replace us!"

Trump, who was president at the time, was criticized for initially saying there were "fine people on both sides" after the rally devolved into violent clashes.

"That is when I decided I had to stay engaged instead of walking away," Biden said in the call on Thursday, quoting Trump's remarks from then. The president added: "Silence is complicity."

Trump denies allegations of antisemitism.

The social and political climate in the United States has become fertile ground for antisemitism in recent years, according to a report released in April by advocacy group Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the Tel Aviv University.

Expressions of hatred against Jews have become "mainstreamed and normalized," and incidents of violence, vandalism, and harassment of Jews have increased, the report had said.

More than 3,600 antisemitic incidents were recorded in the United States in 2022, more than in any year since ADL began tracking the issue in 1979.

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh; Editing by Christopher Cushing)
President Biden on Wednesday claimed House Republicans already knew they wanted to impeach him, most likely because they want to shut down the government, in his first remarks since Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) moved to direct House committees to open a formal impeachment inquiry.

Well, I tell you what, I dont know quite why, but they just knew they wanted to impeach me. Now, best I can tell they want to impeach me because they want to shut down the government, Biden said at a campaign reception in McLean, Va.

Everybody always asked about impeachment. I get up every day not focused on impeachment, Ive got a job to do. Ive got to deal with issues that affect the American people every single solitary day, Biden added before he moved on to talk to fundraiser attendees about a different subject.

The president also mentioned Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), saying she wanted to impeach him on day one of his presidency.

The impeachment fight could be an issue as Congress and the White House battle over funding the government. Lawmakers face a Sept. 30 deadline to prevent a shutdown. And Greene threatened last month to not fund the government without an impeachment inquiry.

McCarthys formal endorsement of impeachment follows the Oversight Committees investigation into the Biden familys business dealings. It has not found that the president directly financially benefited from his sons business or proved that he made any policy decisions because of it.

The White House earlier Wednesday reiterated their stance that Republicans have turned up no evidence that the president did anything wrong.

That is what we heard over and over again, from their almost yearlong investigation, and thats because the president didnt do anything wrong. Even House Republicans have said the evidence does not exist, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters.

The White House has long been adamant that the president was not in business with his son, and the president has said himself that he never talked with Hunter Biden about his business dealings.

The impeachment push from the House GOP has divided the Republican Party, with a number of Senate Republicans making it clear they oppose the effort and think it lacks evidence. McCarthy decided to go forward with the inquiry without a vote, a reversal from his earlier position.

McCarthys formal endorsement of impeachment comes after weeks of him saying that he thought the House probes would eventually develop into an impeachment inquiry.

The White House also sent a memo to news outlets, urging them to ramp up scrutiny of the House Republicans moves, a pressure campaign that underscores how the impeachment drive is likely to be a major factor as the White House and GOP leaders gear up for next years elections.

When asked about the White Houses thinking behind the memo, Jean-Pierre told reporters, It just laid out really kind of specifically as to how we see this process has moved forward, how there is no evidence.

I actually think that memo lays out pretty, in pretty good detail of why we felt it was important to put that out, she added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
President Biden said Thursday that so-called MAGA Republicans are failing while making the pitch for his own economic agenda and achievements under the banner of Bidenomics.

You hear from our friends on the other side, the MAGA Republicans, whats wrong with America. Everythings wrong with America. They keep telling us Americas failing, the president said in remarks at Prince Georges Community College in Largo, Md. Well theyre wrong: Theyre failing. Americas not failing, Americas winning, and theres one reason for it: you.

At the event, which looked a lot like a campaign speech, the president said that his agenda is about investing in America and investing in Americans.

He has been working to sell Bidenomics, which is his vision for building the economy from the bottom up and the middle out and moving away from trickle-down economics. But the idea hasnt really taken off yet with the voters, who are still seeing high prices on gas and other goods.

Remind me to get those gas prices down again, I promise ya, Biden said.

The White House earlier Thursday rolled out a memo that warned against so-called MAGAnomics, arguing that Bidens and former President Trumps differing economic agendas will define the fall budget debates.

Biden, during his speech, took out a copy of the budget of the Republican Study Committee (RSC), the largest conservative caucus in the House. The group proposed cutting $16.3 trillion in spending in over a decade.

Their plan, MAGAnomics, is more extreme than anything Americas ever seen before, he said, asking if audience members at the community college had a copy.

Im the only president who hands out the oppositions economic plan, Biden said. Since Ive come to office all theyve really done is attack me and my economic plan.

Biden said the RSC plan cuts taxes for the very wealthy and cuts Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid while raising costs for families.

The RSC is pushing back on the claims that it supports cuts to those programs. It does not include any age increases for Medicare eligibility, but does include some modest adjustments to the retirement age.

Under their model, the retirement age would be increased at a rate of three months per year  but not for current or near-retirees  starting in 2026, until it reaches 69 for those turning 62 in 2033.

Much of the groups model budget opposes so-called woke policies, including opposing gender-affirming health care for transgender youth and beyond, boosting protections for religious institutions and taking aim at critical race theory.

For all the time they spend attacking me and my plan, heres what they never do, they never talk about what they want to do, Biden said.

He also took direct swipes at Trump, targeting him about job creation under his administration versus the Biden one. He brought up, as he has done in several recent speeches, that Trump is one of two presidents who left office with fewer jobs than when he entered.

One was President Hoover and the other was Donald Hoover Trump, Biden said. My predecessor promised to be the greatest job president in history. Well, it didnt really work out that way. He lost 2 million jobs in the course of his presidency.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
By Sarah N. Lynch, Jarrett Renshaw and Andrew Goudsward

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Joe Biden 's son Hunter Biden was criminally charged on Thursday with deceiving a gun dealer into selling him a firearm, in the latest sign of how the younger Biden's legal woes may weigh on his father's re-election bid next year.

The first-ever indictment of a sitting president's child, filed in U.S. District Court in Delaware, charged Hunter Biden with three criminal counts related to lying about the fact he was using illegal drugs at that time, which would have banned him under the law from owning a firearm.

The charges ensure that courtroom drama will play an outsized role in the 2024 U.S. presidential campaign as Joe Biden, 80, seeks reelection in a likely rematch with his Republican predecessor Donald Trump , 77, who faces four upcoming criminal trials of his own.

The new charges against Hunter Biden brought by recently elevated U.S. Special Counsel David Weiss say nothing about any violations of U.S. tax law. A prior deal under which Hunter Biden, 53, would have pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor tax charges and enroll in a program to avoid prosecution on the gun charge collapsed in a stunning turn in a July hearing.

The tax investigation into Biden remains ongoing, after Weiss previously said any possible charges would need to be brought in either the District of Columbia or the Los Angeles-based Central District of California.

Prosecutors accused the younger Biden of lying about his use of narcotics when he purchased a Colt Cobra handgun in October 2018.

The move comes two days after House of Representatives Republicans opened an impeachment inquiry of Joe Biden related to Hunter Biden's foreign business dealings. The White House has denounced that step, made without a vote by the full House, as unsubstantiated and politically motivated.

"As expected, prosecutors filed charges today that they deemed were not warranted just six weeks ago following a five-year investigation into this case," Hunter Biden attorney Abbe Lowell said in a statement. "The evidence in this matter has not changed in the last six weeks, but the law has and so has MAGA Republicans' improper and partisan interference in this process."

The White House declined to comment. A spokesperson for Weiss declined to comment.

Some legal experts have said that any firearms-related charges against Biden could be vulnerable to a constitutional challenge, after the U.S. Supreme Court last year in a landmark ruling expanded gun rights under the U.S. Constitution's Second Amendment, which protects the right to bear arms.

Lowell referred to that dispute in his statement, noting "the recent rulings by several federal courts that this statute is unconstitutional."

SPECIAL COUNSEL STATUS

Weiss was elevated to special counsel status in August after investigating Hunter Biden's business dealings for years as the U.S. attorney in the Democratic president's home state of Delaware. Weiss was originally nominated by Trump.

The younger Biden for years has been the focus of unrelenting attacks by Trump and his Republican allies who have accused him of wrongdoing relating to Ukraine and China, among other matters. Hunter Biden has worked as a lobbyist, lawyer, investment banker and artist, and has publicly detailed his struggles with substance abuse.

While Republican lawmakers have collected testimony that Joe Biden at times joined calls with his son's business associates, they have yet to produce evidence that the president personally benefited.

"Todays charges against Hunter Biden are a very small start, but unless U.S. Attorney Weiss investigates everyone involved in the fraud schemes and influence peddling, it will be clear President Bidens DOJ is protecting Hunter Biden and the big guy," said Republican Representative James Comer, chairman of the House Oversight Committee, one of the three committees leading the impeachment inquiry kicked off this week.

Hunter Biden disclosed in December 2020 that Weiss's office was investigating his tax affairs. He has denied wrongdoing.

While most U.S. attorneys appointed by Trump were asked to step down when Biden took office in January 2021, as is routine, the Justice Department asked Weiss to stay on.

Hunter Biden never held a position in the White House or on his father's campaign. The president has said he has not discussed foreign business dealings with his son and has said his Justice Department would have independence in any investigation of a member of his family.

Trump and other Republicans have alleged what they called conflicts of interest from Hunter Biden's position on the board of the Ukrainian energy company Burisma at the time his father was vice president to Democratic President Barack Obama. Trump in a July 2019 phone call with Ukraine's president asked him to have his government open an investigation into Joe and Hunter Biden in the lead-up to the U.S. presidential election.

The Democratic-led House of Representatives later voted to impeach Trump on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress stemming from these efforts, though the Senate ultimately voted to keep Trump in office.

Hunter Biden described in a 2021 memoir dealing with substance abuse issues in his life including crack cocaine use and alcoholism. He was discharged from the U.S. Navy reserve in 2014 after, sources said at the time, testing positive for cocaine.

The president has two surviving children, Hunter Biden and daughter Ashley Biden. His son Beau Biden died in 2015 of cancer and his daughter Naomi Biden died as an infant after a car accident that also killed Joe Biden's first wife.

Hunter Biden appears to be the first child of a sitting president to be indicted, according to Aaron Crawford, who specializes in presidential history at the University of Tennessee.

(Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch, Jarrett Renshaw and Andrew Goudsward in Washington, additional reporting by Tom Hals in Wilmington, Delaware and Nate Raymond in Boston; Editing by Scott Malone, Lisa Shumaker, Alistair Bell and Daniel Wallis)
Good morning and welcome to the A.M. Alert!

MANDELA ACT FALTERS IN THE FINAL STAGE, GETS MADE A TWO-YEAR BILL

A California lawmakers attempt to restrict the use of solitary confinement in California prisons fell apart Wednesday. It narrowly passed the Senate but was pulled before it went to a concurrence vote in the Assembly.

AB 280, by Assemblyman Chris Holden , D-Pasadena,  dubbed the Mandela Act after South African leader Nelson Mandela , who spent years in prison, including lengthy stays in solitary confinement  will instead become a two-year bill, meaning it will not be taken up again until the Legislature reconvenes in 2024.

The bills primary provision would be to limit the use of solitary confinement to no more than 15 consecutive days.

According to advocates of the bill, this is to allow time to facilitate good faith negotiations with Newsom , who vetoed a previous attempt at limiting the use of solitary in prisons.

Solitary confinement is torture and it must end. The governor has repeatedly attempted to undermine or gut the Mandela Act, in order to continue to torture thousands of people in California prisons and other detention sites, while worsening safety for everyone, said Hakim Owen, an undergraduate student with the UC Berkeley Underground Scholars program.

The bill was the subject of vigorous debate in the Senate on Wednesday.

Sen. Kelly Seyarto, R-Murrieta, said that the bottom line was that solitary confinement cells have a purpose for what they do in the prisons.

Fellow Republican Sen. Brian Dahle, of Bieber, said that solitary confinement is necessary to thwart the activities of prison gangs.

Sen. Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley, defied fellow lawmakers who pointed to Newsoms previous veto of similar legislation, saying that AB 280 was not the same bill. She added that even if Newsom vetoed the legislation, it is still our responsibility and right to communicate what we think is appropriate policy. That is our role.

Skinner said that most prisoners will one day be released from prison, so we want them in the best possible shape when they return home, so they can thrive and return to our communities and not be criminalistic or have exacerbated mental health problems.

Democratic Sen. Henry Stern, of Los Angeles, said that while there are many laudable provisions in the bill, he couldnt support the 15-day limit.

Fellow Los Angeles Democrat, Sen. Maria Elena Durazo, said that the bill simply adopts standards set by the United Nations for the minimum acceptable treatment of incarcerated people.

Colleagues, this is the international standard that we should follow, she said.

Reached for comment, Holden told The Bee that the Senate vote allowed him to get a temperature read on the bill, but that making it a two-year bill gives him more time to have legislation that meets the approval of both the Legislature and the governor.

So I just thought it was a prudent move on our part, to be patient just a little while longer and see what was what gets produced from the administrations thinking around this issue. And then everyone sit around the table and try to figure out a way possible to bring it together and hopefully come up with a bill that we can really be proud of, he said.

LEGISLATURE APPROVES STAFF UNION BILL

Via Maya Miller...

Cheers erupted on the Assembly floor as legislative employees clinched a long-awaited victory Wednesday after their bosses approved a bill that would give them the right to unionize.

The Assembly voted 61-4 to concur with Senate amendments and send Assembly Bill 1 to Gov. Gavin Newsom. The measure would give legislative employees the legal right to organize and collectively bargain with the Assembly and Senate Rules Committees starting in 2026.

Im a little calmer than I was yesterday, because I trusted in my house, said Assemblywoman Tina McKinnor, the Inglewood Democrat who carried the bill, shortly after the vote. I really, really love the bipartisan support, McKinnor said.

Labor-leaning Democrats have increasingly felt pressure to support the bill, especially given the backdrop of the hot labor summer of strikes sweeping the state. Republicans have generally been less vocal, but Assemblyman Joe Patterson of Rocklin stood up to offer his support as a former legislative staffer. He said he hoped the union formed out of AB 1 could help close some of the pay disparities that exist between Republican and Democratic legislative employees.

I think its a great thing for the employees here in the state Legislature to join a union if they desire to do so, Patterson said.

The governor now holds the power to either grant or deny legislative aides, analysts, schedulers, committee staff, sergeants and support staff the collective bargaining rights that the states civil service workers already have.

At least five previous bills fell short. Most of them were authored by former Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher, who now heads the California Labor Federation, AB 1s main sponsor.

Theres not quite words to describe how excited I am for the staff who worked so hard to make this happen, Gonzalez Fletcher said Wednesday.

After the vote, McKinnor said she was honored to carry the bill over the finish line, and she feels confident that the governor will sign it.

The good news is, he hasnt said anything opposed to it.

THE RETURN OF CURSIVE LESSONS IN SCHOOLS

Via Maya Miller...

California elementary and middle school students could soon see a renewed commitment to teaching cursive writing in their English and language arts classes.

Assembly Bill 446 would require cursive handwriting instruction in first through sixth grade. The bill comes from Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva, D-Fullerton, a former public elementary school teacher herself. Legislators sent the measure to Newsoms desk Wednesday.

Although cursive writing instruction is already part of the California educational standard, Quirk-Silva said the implementation of the curriculum varies greatly from classroom to classroom. The bill doesnt pinpoint a specific grade in which teachers would have to teach cursive, but rather requires them to be more intentional about making sure they include some instruction on it each year from first through sixth grade.

Quirk-Silva said the main goal of the bill is to give students the ability to read in cursive, as well as writing it. She pointed out that most historical records, such as diaries, letters, ledgers and other documents, were written in cursive.

A lot of the historical documents going back two or three decades are actually in cursive, she said. I went on 23andMe looking for some family records and they were all written in cursive.

Additionally, with the rise of artificial intelligence in the classroom, she theorized that more teachers would return to handwritten essay exams. Students who can write in cursive would be able to write faster.

Quirk-Silva said former Gov. Jerry Brown was a major supporter of the bill when he was in office, and she texted him shortly after the Assembly passed the bill to let him know about its success.

He said, Get this bill to me and Ill sign it, Quirk-Silva recalled of her conversations with the former governor. But we could never get it through the education committee.

As the Assembly considered the bill on a concurrence vote Wednesday, the Fullerton Democrat read handwritten notes from some of her colleagues  written in cursive  in support of the bill.

Dear Sharon, no one has more beautiful handwriting than me. Period. End of story, wrote Assemblywoman Diane Papan, D-San Mateo.

Thank you, Mr. Marshall, my fourth grade teacher, for teaching me how to write in cursive!!! wrote Assemblyman Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer, D-South Los Angeles.

AB 446 was joined together with two additional education bills that would mandate instruction on climate change and mental health in first through sixth grades.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

Everyone loves you when youre fighting in the octagon, but will any of those people be there for you when youre in your nineties paying the price?

- Former MMA superstar Ronda Rousey, in previous testimony supporting AB 1136, a bill to create a state pension fund for mixed martial arts fighters. It passed out of the Legislature on Wednesday and now sits on Newsoms desk.

Best of The Bee:

A federal judge on Wednesday refused to extend his injunction barring the city of Sacramento from clearing homeless camps, via Sam Stanton .

California lawmakers are on the verge of sending Gov. Gavin Newsom a bill to strengthen penalties for child sex traffickers, a measure that roiled the Capitol this summer, via Lindsey Holden .

Most of Californias state workers are on track to see raises in their paychecks soon, after legislators in the California Assembly and Senate gave their stamp of approval to new union contracts that govern pay and working conditions, via Maya Miller .

Gov. Gavin Newsom said Tuesday night that California would file a brief supporting the city of San Francisco in a court case that has significantly limited homeless encampment sweeps in the city where he was once mayor, via Maggie Angst.
Lynda Keefe was understandably concerned when she received a letter from her insurance company in August about overhanging limbs/trees within fall distance of her house in Biloxis Edgewater Park neighborhood.

The letter immediately put Keefe on edge. Like many Mississippi Coast residents, she had a tough time finding affordable property insurance this year. Insurance companies are raising rates, withdrawing from coastal markets as hurricanes intensify with climate change or shrinking their portfolios.

Theyre raising the prices, Keefe said. Theyre scaring people to death.

She had a stressful time finding insurance this year and wound up in the state wind pool, a state-run insurance agency that is a last resort for property owners in the six coastal counties. The wind pool, called the Mississippi Windstorm Underwriting Association, insures homes only for wind damage from storms.

As insurance availability shrinks, companies also are taking a closer look at the properties they do cover. They are insisting homeowners replace older roofs, trim or cut down trees too close to their houses and reduce risk in other ways.

Gulfport Mayor Billy Hewes, whose wife runs their family-owned insurance and real estate agency, said insurers are doing more site inspections to find and reduce their risks. Hes had to get limbs trimmed on the Live oaks around his roofs perimeter. He thinks homeowners should be rewarded with lower rates when for reducing risks, but thats not the way it works.

Quite frankly, Hewes said, theyre rewarded with the ability to purchase a policy, is what its coming down to.

Biloxi homeowner Lynda Keefe stands under a Live oak that her insurance company recommended she trim or remove, saying it could damage her house during a storm. Keefe paid an arborist who concluded the tree is a low risk of causing damage. She does not plan to have it removed.

Trees can pose danger in hurricanes

With hurricane season about to hit full swing, Keefe certainly wanted to keep the wind policy on her house. The Mississippi Windstorm Underwriting Association had inspected her property, the letter said, and was recommending that she remove overhanging limbs and/or trees. The letter asked that she send photos by email if the work was completed.

The retiree, who moved to Biloxi five years ago, was confused because shes had limbs trimmed in the past to make sure they dont hang over her roof.

Keefe talked to a neighbor, who put her in touch with Biloxis arborist. The city expert recommended she hire a private arborist to determine if any trees around her house posed a risk.

That report concluded that the Live oak nearest her house was unlikely to fall or drop limbs on the house. The private arborist recommended leaving but continuing to monitor the tree.

Trees are an important asset to our community and their benefits are significant, said the report completed by Ben Kahlmus of Fulghams Inc., based in Tupelo. They help with storm water mitigation, carbon sequestration, oxygen production, lowering heating/cooling costs, etc.

The report cost Keefe $350. She sent the report to the state wind pool, but hasnt heard anything back.

Im just worried that theyre going to cancel my insurance, she told her insurance agent. He told her not to worry. He had gotten a similar letter and didnt act on it.

Insurance companies are paying closer attention to the condition of properties they insure against covered perils such as hurricanes. They sometimes recommend or require removal of trees or limbs within fall distance of a home. The Live oak behind this house was deemed at low risk of failure by an arborist and the homeowner has decided against removing it.

Live oaks prized on MS Coast

More often that not, letters from the wind pool about trimming trees are an advisory, which means the homeowner does not have to act. That was the case with Keefes notice, which was simply a recommendation.

When a tree must come down, letters clearly inform policyholders that their coverage will be canceled if they fail to act, said Brad Little, assistant manager of the wind pool. The homeowner receives 30 days notice before cancellation, plus 10 days for mailing time.

Even a healthy tree, when it rains really hard or theres a lot of wind, they go over as well, Little said. I love my trees, but I have taken some out that would be a problem.

Live oaks and other trees are prized on the Coast and protected by ordinances that prohibit their removal without permission. Wind pool officials say they are aware of the value these trees have and dont take removal mandates lightly.

City building officials also recognize the need to comply with insurance mandates, which some believe have become more frequent.

Were not going to interfere with somebody losing their insurance, said Ocean Springs Building Official Darrell Stringfellow.

Keefe has decided to leave her tree as it is for now.

I dont want to cut the trees down when they dont need to be, she said. Were not going to have our neighborhood anymore. Its going to look awful if everybody has to cut their trees down. Plus, trees are good for environment.
(NewsNation/WHTM)  It was K-9 Yoda, a member of the U.S. Border Patrol Tactical Unit, that ultimately helped end a 14-day manhunt for convicted murderer Danelo Cavalcante, who was able to escape a Pennsylvania prison late last month.

Yoda, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois, helped Pennsylvania State Police and other law enforcement agencies apprehend Cavalcante, without incident, on Wednesday.

K-9s play a very important role not only for tracking but also for, in a circumstance like this, safely capturing someone, said Lt. Col. George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police. [Its] far better that were able to release a patrol dog like this and have them subdue the individual than have to use lethal force.

A police K-9 training expert believes the capture of Cavalcante was the perfect marriage between technology and police K-9s.

Video shows inmates escape as Pennsylvania manhunt continues

Cavalcante was serving a life sentence for killing his ex-girlfriend, Deborah Brandao, in front of her children in 2021. He had been on the run for weeks before police and a K-9 surrounded him Wednesday in a wooded area.

A Border Control Tactical Unit (BORTAC) that was moving in on the area had a search canine, which was released once Cavalcante showed signs of an attempt to flee, according to the Chester County District Attorneys Office. The dog was able to subdue Cavalcante, and team members from the Border Tactical Unit and the Pennsylvania State Police immediately moved in to capture the fugitive.

The DAs office said Cavalcante sustained a minor bite wound from Yoda, but was evaluated by medical staff on the scene.

K-9 training expert Michael Gould told NewsNation Yoda did exactly what they were trained to do: Bite and hold.

Because theyre taught to bite and hold, that means the injuries associated with that usually are not significant, Gould said.

Calvacante was still armed with the rifle as he tried to escape by crawling through the underbrush and he continued to resist as he was taken into custody after 8 a.m. ET.

Despite days of advanced police technology and manpower, Gould said hes not surprised that, once again, a K-9 ultimately brought down Cavalcante.

Dogs are waterproof, they see at night  they have night vision, they are voice-activated, said Gould. These circumstances couldnt have been more dangerous: You have an armed suspect, a murderer accused of heinous crimes, and rather than putting law enforcement at risk, the dog is capable of locating, holding and apprehending a suspect just by the how theyre trained.

Social Security COLA increase may be larger than anticipated

As law enforcement was getting close to Cavalcante early Wednesday morning, heat-seeking aircraft were forced to depart the area as severe weather approached.

Gould said this is where K-9s can simply do what technology cannot.

Rain, sleet, hail, snow The dogs can be deployed, said Gould. Unlike, for example, the fixed-wing aircraft or other technology. So, the dogs are an amazing piece of technology from my biased perception.

Cavalcante, a 34-year-old from Brazil, escaped from the Chester County prison on Aug. 31 by scaling a wall, climbing over razor wire and jumping from a roof. The breakout wasnt detected by guards for a full hour, authorities say.

He had been spotted multiple times since his escape. Despite immense resources dedicated to the search, he managed to elude law enforcement for days.

After being taken into custody, Cavalcante was escorted to the Pennsylvania State Police Avondale Barracks for processing. He is currently being held at SCI Phoenix, a maximum-security prison in Montgomery County, according to the Department of Corrections. A felony charge of escape was filed against Cavalcante, who could also face more charges.

NewsNation writer Taylor Delandro contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com.
The California Congressional Black Caucus is gearing up to launch a statewide campaign to educate its citizens on the critical nature of reparations for Black people  including cash payments  for the harms of slavery.

This comes on the heels of a University of California, Berkeley, poll released this week that shows most Californians oppose Black residents receiving any financial compensation as part of reparation recommendations from the state Assembly.

Among all of those who responded, 59% rejected the idea of cash payments to Black descendants of slavery in the state. Meanwhile, 76% of Black respondents were in favor of cash payments, and 66% of white voters were opposed to Black Californians receiving money. Democrats are more likely to support cash reparations than Republicans and those with no party affiliation, who strongly oppose.

Reginald Jones-Sawyer, a member of the reparations task force, said the results show a lack of knowledge around Californias deep involvement in slavery and other forms of racism that devastated Black families.

Polls can be skewed because usually enough information isnt given to the people, so that they dont have a full understanding of whats going on, Jones-Sawyer said. If each individual that they polled had read that 400-page document we did last year, which proved how California was complicit in chattel slavery, and read the 1,100-page document that we printed out this year, which talked about what reparations should be, theres absolutely no way you would believe that [there] shouldnt be some type of compensation.

To inform the public, Jones-Sawyer said the California Black Caucus will begin a fund-raising campaign to hire a firm to disseminate clear and concise and direct messaging, about the report. Obviously most people didnt read the preliminary or final report by the task force. People now are trying to debunk those findings.

Another hurdle will be educating members of the California Assembly, who are expected to sponsor legislation based on the task forces 1,000-page report published in June.

For more from NBC BLK, sign up for our weekly newsletter.

The report covered myriad areas and recommended more than 100 statewide policies to address generations of discrimination and racial disparities. It did not, however, propose a dollar amount owed to people who are able to demonstrate that they are the descendants of either an enslaved African American in the United States, or a free African American living in the United States prior to 1900.

Jones-Sawyer gave an example that he hopes will ring true to Assembly members and the general public: If you were to buy something, and then later on, you find out that it was stolen property, you wouldnt keep that property. You wouldnt take advantage of it. Well, the labor of African Americans was stolen for centuries. And now were asking for us to restore our dignity, restore what was taken from us. And any legal system would tell you that is the appropriate measure that you should take. And I think any American, once they are educated, would understand why its so important to have reparations.

The lack of a dollar figure, however, is a sticking point for many Black people. Cathy Adams, president of the Oakland African American Chamber of Commerce, drove to Sacramento for the final public hearing at the end of June. She said she left profoundly moved.

I listened to those families talk about how generational wealth was taken from them when they had land and property seized by white people for no good reason other than they wanted it  or didnt want them to have it, Adams said. And it broke my heart. Education about what has happened is critical. I learned so much and it reinforced for me the importance of cash reparations in addition to the programs in the report.

But this is important: This isnt about Black people looking for a check, a handout, Adams added. This is bigger than that. The harms of slavery are real. We are dealing with a number of disparities and inequities in the Black community that stem from what was denied or taken from us, our ancestors. We seem to fall at the end of the spectrum every time, in every way, and I think that anybody being a part of a poll saying we should not be financially compensated is wrong.

Denise Branch, an anti-racism educator and racial equity consultant said the polls results are telling about an attitude toward Black people.

The legacy of slavery is still impacting Black Americans financially, Branch said. While Black people made it possible for many non-Black communities to come to America and receive a handout, those same communities believe that America paying its incalculable debt owed to Black Americans would be a handout. White Americans believe they owe nothing because they believe themselves not to be their ancestors. But they are the beneficiaries of financial privileges handed over to them by their ancestors.

Having a clearer understanding of the history will make a difference, Jones-Sawyer said. The California Black Caucus plans to work with the Legislature, which will not present its recommendations to Gov. Gavin Newsom until early 2024. Between now and then, the caucus will solicit insights and ideas from the public to help influence those voting on reparations for Black Californians.

Some of the best ideas we ever got did not come from elected officials, did not come from academics, did not come from a bureaucrat, he said. They came from real people. And thats going to be the thing that will get us over when we start talking to our fellow legislators about why this is so important and why they need to vote yes on it. Were not going to get them all. But we dont need them all. We just need the majority in the assembly. And I think we have a good clear path to that.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Russian billionaires have pulled assets worth $50 billion from so-called "unfriendly" European countries since the start of the full-scale war due to mounting sanctions and pressure from the Kremlin, Bloomberg reported on Sept. 14.

The outlet said that Russia's wealthy are transferring their funds from locations like Cyprus, Switzerland, or the U.K. island of Jersey back to Russia or to places that Moscow considers friendly, such as Kazakhstan or the United Arab Emirates.

As Bloomberg pointed out, the first to undertake this step were fertilizer billionaire Andrey Guryev and steel tycoon Victor Rashnikov, followed by Igor Altushkin, Igor Shilov, Mark Kurtser, and others.

While the Russian elite have traditionally preferred to store assets in Europe, their options are growing thin as many of them find themselves on Western sanctions lists.

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support us

The Kremlin itself seeks to repatriate the wealth of Russian billionaires, using both a stick  such as suspending dual tax treaties  and a carrot  local low-tax domestic "offshore" zones.

Russian companies are also transferring their assets, with 115 business entities moving to domestic "offshore" zones this year, amounting to a total of 254, Bloomberg said, citing Russian First Deputy Economy Minister Ilya Torosov.

The U.S., the U.K., the EU, and other Western governments have imposed a number of sanctions against Russian high-profile figures linked to the Kremlin or involved in the Russian aggression against Ukraine.

Members of the Russian elite have had their offshore assets frozen or were barred entry to Western countries. Kyiv said it wants to create mechanisms to have the frozen assets used to pay for Ukraine's reconstruction and recovery.

On Sept. 6, U.S. State Secretary Antony Blinken said that for the first time, Washington will fund support for Ukrainian military veterans using "assets seized from sanctioned Russian oligarchs."

Read also: Investigative Stories from Ukraine: Massive leak reveals how Putins oligarchs evaded Western sanctions imposed due to Ukraine invasion

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Matt Chapman fails to field a single hit by Cincinnati Reds' Spencer Steer in the second inning of a baseball game in Cincinnati, Sunday, Aug. 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Jeff Dean)

TORONTO (AP)  Blue Jays third baseman Matt Chapman was activated off the 10-day injured list before Thursdays game against Texas.

The Blue Jays have fallen out of a wild-card position after losing the first three games of a four-game series against the Rangers.

Chapman has been sidelined because of a sprained right middle finger since leaving an Aug. 27 game against Cleveland. The former All-Star and three-time Gold Glove Award winner jammed his finger returning a dumbbell to its rack in Torontos weight room last month.

Chapman was the AL player of the month in April, when he hit .384 with five homers and 21 RBIs. He's batting .248 with 15 homers and 50 RBIs in 125 games.

Chapman was traded to Toronto in March 2022 following five seasons with Oakland. Hes in the second season of a $25 million, two-year contract and is eligible for free agency after the World Series.

Toronto optioned outfielder Nathan Lukes to Triple-A Buffalo.

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb
The search is on for two men who vanished at a California lake, officials said.

A man fell from a tube being towed by a boat on Lake Perris on Sept. 13 and could not swim back to the tube, a California State Parks spokesperson said in a Sept. 14 email to McClatchy News.

A passenger aboard the boat jumped in the water to try to save him, but he too began to struggle, the spokesperson said.

Lifeguards and state park peace officers searched the area, the spokesperson said.

A dive team from the Riverside County Sheriffs Office also responded to look for the men, a sheriffs office spokesperson said in an email to McClatchy News.

Neither man resurfaced and are presumed missing, according to the spokesperson.

A search is ongoing, according to the spokesperson.

Lake Perris is in Riverside County, about 70 miles southeast of Los Angeles.

61-year-old fisherman mysteriously vanishes on Lake Michigan, authorities say

Body of missing 25-year-old kayaker found a day after he fell into lake, AZ cops say

Missing kayaker filmed his own drowning on helmet cam, Alaska troopers say
PAYNE COUNTY, Okla. (KFOR)  The search for a missing 21-year-old has led to a mans arrest for murder.

In an area with dirt roads and overgrown grass, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation said they made a discovery in Glencoe after more than a week long search for Samuel Cade Crawford.

For days, the Payne County Sheriffs Office, Noble County Sheriffs Office, and Stillwater Police Department searched for the 21-year-old. They said Crawford was last seen 11 miles away from Glencoe on August 29, at Bills Corner store in Morrison.

Man charged with murder after body, missing mans truck found at chop shop

On September 4, investigators reached out to the OSBI for help.

Four days later, the investigation took a turn.

On September 8th, they deployed a helicopter to scan a large area in Payne County, said Hunter McKee, spokesperson for the OSBI.

State agents said thats when they found an alleged chop shop, somewhere near VFW Rd. and Prairie Rd. in Glencoe, allegedly operated by 21-year-old Christopher Michael Somers.

Mugshot of Christopher Somers

During that search they discovered parts of Crawfords vehicle, said McKee. When they noticed parts of his vehicle, they executed a search warrant, and when they were searching that area they found a deceased male.

Man charged for 2021 disappearances, deaths of three Tulsa Co. people

The OSBI has not officially said if the man found is Crawford. Agents are waiting on the State Medical Examiner to identify the body.

Crawford is technically still missing right now. Were still searching, said McKee.

Meanwhile, Somers was booked into the Payne County jail on several complaints, including first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, stealing a vehicle, hiding stolen property, and operating a chop shop.

Stephens County mother pleads guilty to child abuse after 3-year-olds 2022 death

Investigators are also still working to discover the connection between the two men.

We are looking into not only the motive but the relationship between Somers and Crawford, said McKee.

News 4 reached out to several of Crawfords family members and friends. We did not hear back.

The OSBI said agents are still seeking tips related to this case.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
The director of Moscow's Bolshoi Theater, Vladimir Urin , admitted in an interview that directors who have spoken out against the Russian invasion of Ukraine are removed from the theater's repertoire, Russian independent media outlet Meduza reported on Sept. 14.

Urin was discussing the opera and ballet peformances the Bolshoi produces in an interview with Russian state newspaper Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

While some performances no longer are staged for legal reasons, as the license has run out and cannot be renewed, others are specifically cancelled because the creator spoke out against Russia's invasion.

Urin claimed that he could not allow them to be performed as they would cause "a very serious negative reaction."

In these cases, the names of the creators of the performances have "disappeared from the posters," according to the director.

Though Russian society "is now truly polarized," Urin alleges there has been no change "in terms of interest in the theater or the occupancy of the auditorium."

In fact, the audience now has a "more energetic" response to the shows in light of the current "socio-political situation," he claimed.

Read also: A very noble man: Ballet dancer turned soldier killed on front line near Bakhmut

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
CHICAGO -- Yolexi Cubillan trekked by foot, bus and train over 4,000 miles from Venezuela to Chicago in part so her baby could have a better future.

And Sept. 3, the 19-year-old gave birth around 10 a.m. to a 7-pound boy in a hospital room in Hyde Park, with the help from doctors who didnt speak her language using medical procedures she had never heard of. She was in labor for over 21 hours without her mother  whom she missed terribly  by her bedside.

By that Sunday afternoon, she and her partner Fabian Mendez, 20, sat in the visitation room at a hospital at the University of Chicago Medical Center, adjusting to the new tiny person they called Derick who slept in a plastic carrier on top of a wooden bureau across from them.

I never get tired of looking at him, she said in Spanish. It makes me want to cry. Hes so beautiful, so little, so fragile.

The Mendez family is among the more than 13,500 migrants who have arrived in Chicago since Texas Gov. Greg Abbott bused the first group of asylum-seekers to Chicago one year ago. Since then, asylum-seekers have arrived not only on buses sent by Republican governors  who argue liberal northern cities that profess to be sanctuaries should welcome them  but on their own or with the help of charities.

In July, the Tribune followed Yolexi and her boyfriends family (plus a dog) on their journey from the border town of El Paso, Texas, to Chicago. On Labor Day weekend their story began a new chapter, with the beating heart from their son, a United States citizen.

In those first weeks, I suffered a lot.

The family of five  Yolexi, Fabian, his mother Esperanza and his two younger siblings  have been in the city since mid-July, when they walked through Chicagos Union Station after traveling more than two days from El Paso by bus and train. Their overland trip from Maracaibo, Venezuela, took 52 days.

Little by little, were learning to adjust to life in Chicago. But theres just so much to do, Esperanza said in Spanish.

Theyve settled on the second floor of a house in Englewood with Hugo Sanchez, the younger childrens father, who arrived last October from Venezuela. But it hasnt been easy.

They said theyve had to move multiple times because Hugos first apartment didnt originally have space for them; they dont know how to ride the bus or train because they cant read English; and have been rejected from medical and Illinois Department of Human Services appointments because they didnt know what paperwork to bring with them. They are sometimes scared to leave their newest home because of gang activity in the area.

And as theyve adjusted to their new home, they are unsure about the process for how to plead asylum, a form of protection that allows those who face persecution or harm in their country of origin to remain in the United States. Esperanza is worried about whether Hugo will make enough painting houses to be able to pay for their rent and food.

And then on Aug. 1, their beloved, part-Chihuahua puppy Milo, who they brought all the way from Venezuela  who survived crossing the Darien Gap, a jungle that is said to be one of the most treacherous migration routes in the world  escaped through a back door after 9-year-old Pedro let him out by accident. He hasnt been seen since.

While in the jungle on their journey, the family had rescued Milo after he fell in a river. The little dog had crossed through a U.S. Customs and Border Protection port. He had slept at Esperanzas feet for 18 hours on a train to Chicago.

They searched for him in their new neighborhood, but to no avail.

En esas primeras semanas, sufri mucho. Me deprimio. In those first weeks, I suffered a lot. It depressed me, Esperanza recounted, looking at a photo of the brown-eyed dog on her phone.

In late August, Fabian celebrated his 20th birthday. They made a mountain of arepas  or traditional Venezuelan crispy white corn cakes  and Fabian ate enough to make himself sick.

On another occasion, all five family members took a trip downtown to see The Bean in Millennium Park and Lake Michigan. They have discovered where their neighborhood corner store is, the tree behind the gas station that grows apples and the closest health clinic.

The buildings here are enormous, the skyline tremendous. But everything is different here. How people speak. How people dress. The customs. Even what type of trash youre allowed to throw in the street, Esperanza said.

The streets are so much cleaner here than they are at home, she said.

All of my family is over there

The uncertainty and fear underlying their new living situation did not make for a comfortable third trimester for 19-year-old Yolexi Cubillan.

Without her mother and the familiarity of her hometown Maracaibo, Yolexi had to find comfort elsewhere. She helped Esperanza cook chicken, potatoes and onions for almuerzo, lunch. She hugged Fabian often, flashing braces each time she smiled or laughed.

A week before giving birth, Yolexi chopped onions and stirred a pot of rice on the stove, tossing her head back to flip her long, curly hair out of her face. She said she had been in excruciating pain for days. She grimaced, then put her chin out determinedly and grabbed two freshly made arepas from the stovetop.

Se la hice a ella, ella, she sang along to a song by Karol G on her phone, one of her all-time favorite artists, who was performing at Soldier Field on Sept. 15, the day before her due date.

Yolexi hadnt seen her family for over three months since she left Venezuela with Fabian at the end of May. Her feet were swollen under the weight of her stomach.

She pulled up photos of her family on her phone  her 21-year-old sister Genesis and 14-year-old brother Eudervis. Her cousin, Carla Fernandez, 20, is one of her best friends in the world, she said. Carla has a 3-year-old daughter named Aranza, and Yolexi said she liked watching Carla take care of her.

All of my family is over there, Yolexi said. But in Venezuela, we dont have good health care.

Yolexi wanted to have her own child, but was nervous. When she found out she was pregnant, she said she was apprehensive at first. She couldnt bear the possibility that something bad could, conceivably, happen to her baby.

In her home country, she said, there arent resources or supplies to respond to pregnancies like there are in the United States. Women sometimes give birth in the seat of a car or even on the ground, and they dont receive care afterward. She said many women lose their children.

The sociopolitical and economic crises that has been roiling Venezuela has caused more than 7 million refugees and migrants to flee the country of 29 million, making their exodus the second-largest external displacement crisis in the world, according to the United Nations Refugee Agency.

While the majority of them have landed in Latin American and Caribbean countries, more than 500,000 have made their way into the United States, primarily to cities such as New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago.

The U.S. government currently allows up to 30,000 individuals per month  from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela  to come to the United States for a period of two years. More than 48,000 Venezuelans have arrived since Jan. 5, according to Department of Homeland Security data from the end of July.

Adrienne Pine, an anthropologist and professor at California Institute of Integral Studies, who focuses on cross-cultural approaches to nursing and who recently returned from a trip to Venezuela, said that Venezuelan women, especially in rural areas, are currently struggling to get access to basic medications and health care. Many women she met told her they desperately wanted birth control pills.

It costs $2 a month, but thats outside the budget that a lot of women have, so theyre just risking it, she said.

Venezuelas social programs have in the past been funded by oil revenues, which have been drastically cut by unilateral sanctions by the United States over nearly two decades, according to a report by United Nations Special Rapporteur Alena Douhan. This has led to a devastating effect on social programs serving the entire population, but especially those living in poverty, women and children.

Venezuela had some of the best indices in the hemisphere in terms of maternal health care. In terms of pregnancy related care, child mortality and child health, said Pine. Infant mortality goes up with the sanctions.

In Chicago, Yolexi had a health consultation at a local clinic, where nurses gave her the address of a hospital across town that could take her when she went into labor.

Esperanza, a mother of three, also comforted Yolexi in the days leading up to her due date.

I remember holding my first one. I told Yole that, she said. Yo se que es eso. Lo que esta pasando. I know what that is like. What is happening.

Mami, listen to the sounds of its heart

Cook County Health, the lead medical provider as part of Chicagos response to migrants arriving on buses from the border, has seen over 200 pregnant women among the thousands of migrants who have come to the city since last fall, according to CCH spokesperson Alexandra Normington.

But this does not include the pregnant women among the 1,581 new arrivals in police districts or the 472 at OHare, awaiting placement in one of the 18 city-run shelters.

CCH provides prenatal care to new arrivals at outpatient health centers across the city, and transportation to and from all medical visits, Normington said.

Because the United States is not seen favorably in Venezuela due to its long-standing sanctions against the country, a baby who is a U.S. citizen may be viewed in the eyes of the Venezuelan government as an enemy, according to Keith Southam, immigration attorney and founder of Southam Law LLC.

It could help in the asylum application itself, he said. So you can tug on the heartstrings of a judge by saying its more likely shell be harmed in Venezuela because now her child is a citizen of the enemy.

Early Saturday Sept. 2, Yolexi was going to the bathroom before bed when her water broke. She put her arms up against the door over her head to stabilize her legs and hips, and cried out to Esperanza.

Fabian immediately called an ambulance, which brought her to University of Chicago Medicine Comer Childrens Hospital. It wasnt the hospital she had been referred to, but it was nearby. There were two nurses in the ambulance who assisted the young family, one who spoke Spanish.

She really helped both of them, said Esperanza. Or rather, the three of them.

Esperanza wasnt allowed in the ambulance, and didnt get to Comer until five hours later when Hugo was able to drive her to the hospital in his car. She barely slept, thinking about Yolexis crying gasps of pain and Fabians nervous energy getting into the flashing ambulance after her.

The feeling of longing was mutual.

I didnt have my mom, but I have her, said Yolexi about Esperanza. She helped me go to the bathroom. She helped me with everything. She held my hand.

The number of doctors, large hospital rooms and machines amazed Esperanza. When Fabian saw the support Yolexi would receive at the hospital, he calmed down.

Mami, listen to the sounds of its heart, you can feel it! Esperanza recounted him saying, pointing at the doppler transducer used to monitor the babys heartbeat.

In Venezuela, family members arent allowed into the room during childbirth, she said. They come after the baby is born, cramming in all at once to give a first round of hellos.

Everyone in your house, your friends. The whole world comes, she said, laughing.

At Comer, Esperanza and Fabian sat in chairs, watching the birth unfold from start to finish.

Despite Esperanzas encouragement and assurance, Yolexi felt scared and alone.

Her own mother had warned her that having a child is one of the hardest things someone can do, but that it would all be worth it when she held the baby in her arms.

Era complicado y doloroso. It was so complicated and painful, she said later about the process.

After 21 hours of labor, at 10:04 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 3, Derick Alexander Cubillan entered the world, held by the hands of doctors on United States soil.

There are no words for this feeling

Yolexi was grateful it was all over, and for the care she received. And when asked how she felt about having a baby born as a citizen of the United States, Yolexi said it was unbelievable.

Pero me hubiera gustado si el fuera venezolano. But I would have liked it if he were Venezuelan, she said.

Later, in the quiet visitation room, Yolexi and Fabian adjusted to the reality that they had just four visitors instead of dozens. Yolexi FaceTimed her mom, holding Derick tightly to her chest. He slept soundly.

The room was still, and Yolexi glowed with pride. Her curls frizzed in a halo around her head. Fabian gently picked his son up to set him back down in the plastic padded case.

After running a series of blood work and other tests, doctors at the hospital discharged Yolexi two days later with a new bed for infants and tubes of Similac. They told her that after giving birth, she could now be eligible for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, or WIC.

Truthfully, we dont have everything we need. No blanket, no clothes, nothing, she said. We havent had time or resources to plan anything.

Once they got back home, she shuffled around the kitchen, preparing rice and meat and salad. Fabian sat at the table, watching her.

Es un sentimiento no puedo explicar, he said about Derick. There are no words for this feeling.

Yolexi said Derick cries all night and sleeps all day. His first night at home, she barely slept.

Now, I will always be there for my child and I will always have this feeling, she said. It gives us a reason to live.

Miles from her family in Venezuela, cradling her baby, shes singularly focused on the family shes creating in her new home.
A Boston doctor was indicted by a federal grand jury Wednesday on charges that he masturbated and exposed himself within the view of a 14-year-old female seated next to him on a flight from Honolulu to Boston in May 2022.

Dr. Sudipta Mohanty, 33, was indicted on one count of lewd, indecent and obscene acts while in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States. He was arrested and charged by criminal complaint in August and released.

Mohanty hasnt entered a plea. A lawyer for Mohanty didnt immediately repond to an email and phone call seeking comment.

Investigators say Mohanty was a passenger aboard a Hawaiian Airlines Flight with a female companion and was allegedly seated next to a 14-year-old travelling with her grandparents, who were sitting nearby.

About halfway through the flight, investigators said, the 14-year-old noticed that Mohanty had covered himself with a blanket up to his neck and that his leg was bouncing up and down.

A short time later the minor saw that the blanket was on the floor, no longer covering Mohanty, and that Mohanty was masturbating, according to prosecutors.

The minor moved herself to an empty seat in a different row. After arriving in Boston, she told members of her family about the incident and police were notified.

The charge of lewd, indecent and obscene acts while in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States carries a sentence of up to 90 days in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $5,000.

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 transformation of a classic brown brick bank to a polished white boutique hotel in downtown Biloxi is nearly complete and The Bella Biloxi is ready for its reveal and grand opening  just in time for Cruisin The Coast.

Both The Bella Downtown and The BrewPaddle Cafe and bakery that shares the building at 854 Howard Ave. open next weekend.

Reservations go live at noon on Monday, Sept. 18 on the hotels website, opening 13 suites for those coming to Cruisin The Coast antique and classic car show the first week in October and for upcoming holiday festivals.

If you had to pick a location in downtown Biloxi, this is it, says Ivan Spinner, who calls it the intersection of Main and Main.

Just a few blocks away is the beach, along with Beau Rivage and Hard Rock casinos. The Biloxi Shuckers baseball stadium and Ground Zero Blues Club are even closer. Biloxi Town Green and restaurants are in walking distance and the Nativity Cathedral, where many weddings are held, is directly across the street.

The Bella also will be a short walk from the Amtrak station once passenger train service between New Orleans and Mobile begins.

This drone shot of The Bella Downtown hotel, pictured in the front center, shows the proximity to the beach and casinos, the stadium where the Biloxi Shuckers play and the restaurants and attractions in downtown Biloxi.

Spinner bought the building the day it went on the market for the full asking price of $1.5 million, he said,

I bought it not knowing what I was going to do with it, he said.

He and his wife, Kelly, spent another $1 million on the restoration and design of the property that is both hotel and a longer term vacation for those who want to stay awhile in downtown Biloxi, where the Saenger Theatre the Barq building are being restored and the business section is making a comeback.

Decades of Biloxi history unearthed during Barq Building renovation. See for yourself.

This will be the new hot spot of the Coast, Ivan said.

The Bella, a boutique hotel, and the Brew Paddle, a coffeeshop and bakery, in Biloxi on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023.

Each hotel room is different

Renovations began about 18 months ago and Garlon Pemberton with HP Development was challenged to create a second floor where previously a balcony overlooked the interior of the bank.

Like the other properties Pemberton built or restored for the Spinners on Pass and Cowan roads in Gulfport, the hotel is white.

We like white. Were all about clean and modern looks, Ivan Spinner said.

White, black and gray are the base, said Kelly, who designed the hotel. Pops of color carry the combination New York City vibe and South Beach flair with art and accessories.

The girls night out themed room at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The hotels rooms all have different modern themes related to todays pop culture.

Each room has a small refrigerator and microwave but beyond that, each is different. Guests will be able to stay in the 90210 suite with its Rodeo Drive feel, or choose rooms that pay tribute to Marilyn Monroe, Prince, rappers or the blues. Theme music will welcome guests when they check into their room.

Four of the 13 suites have a sitting area with a pull-out couch for extra sleeping space. Some of the suites have two separate bedrooms or two bedrooms in the same room.

Every room on the second floor has a balcony looking out on Biloxi. Although there is no elevator, the rooms on the first floor are accessible and have a private courtyard and other luxury touches.

The Marilyn Monroe themed room at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The hotels rooms all have different modern themes related to todays pop culture.

A bakery & coffee shop will open

Those who stay at The Bella will awaken to the aroma of fresh brewed coffee and cinnamon rolls baking at The BrewPaddle Cafe that has an entry directly from the lobby and an exterior door for other customers to use.

Scott and Rachel Plauche moved back to South Mississippi to be closer to family in 2020, after he got a degree in culinary arts, baking and pastry in Charleston, South Carolina.

Their idea was to open a cafe with a coffee house feel and refined food to make breakfast and lunch something special.

A sourdough loaf at Brew Paddle, a new bakery cafe at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The Brew Paddle will offer fresh bread, coffee, breakfast and lunch.

Scott will be baking his artisan breads like sourdough, baguettes and focaccia by the loaf for local customers and restaurants.

Coast Roast is our roaster, Rachel said, and customers can grab a coffee and pastry to go or linger over their breakfast of lunch in the restaurant that will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Breakfast will be special with ingredients like grits sourced from Charleston and quality pork products from the farm in Mississippi.

The specialty at lunch will be tartines  open faced sandwiches such as avocado toast, made on their fresh baked bread with their own dill oil used in the avocado mousse.

Rachel and Scott Plauche returned to South Mississippi and are opening the BrewPaddle Cafe inside The Bella Biloxi boutique hotel on Howard Avenue in downtown Biloxi.

Making memories

Special touches are carried throughout The Bella and The BrewPaddle Cafe, where the original bank vault is part of the experience.

Yes, I slept at The Bella in neon greets guests in the hotel lobby for a selfie moment. Electric charging stations are free for guests in the parking area and electric karts are available to rent to ride around town in style.

The Bella, a new boutique hotel Ivan Spinner and his wife Kelly developed and named after their daughter, in Biloxi on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023.

A drive-up Wells Fargo ATM machine, still at the back of the building, is the number one machine in the state, Ivan says, since visitors have access to more cash than they can get at the casinos.

The hotel is named for their daughter, Bella, 14, a student at Biloxi High School. They are working on the concept for The Austin just down Howard Avenue and plan another Biloxi development for their third child, Logan.

In addition to these Biloxi projects, the Spinners own Coast Exotic Autos and supplied cars for John Travoltas movie filmed at Scarlet Pearl Casino. They also created Flamingo landing in Gulfport, Bacchus on the Bay in Ocean Springs and are building Handsboro Point condos in Gulfport and other projects.

The before pictures shows the former Wells Fargo Bank in downtown Biloxi as crews begin demolition and prepare the building for a transformation into vacation rentals, on March 3, 2022.

The girls night out themed room at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The hotels rooms all have different modern themes related to todays pop culture.

The upstairs hallway outside rooms at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The hotel boasts a modern Miami design with lots of pop art and modern touches.

The designer themed room at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The hotels rooms all have different modern themes related to todays pop culture.

The rock and roll themed room at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The hotels rooms all have different modern themes related to todays pop culture.

The designer themed room at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The hotels rooms all have different modern themes related to todays pop culture.

The Ray Charles themed room at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The hotels rooms all have different modern themes related to todays pop culture.

A kitchenette inside the rapper themed room at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The hotels rooms all have different modern themes related to todays pop culture.

A patio space outside one of the rooms at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023.

The Marilyn Monroe themed room at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The hotels rooms all have different modern themes related to todays pop culture.

Complementary electric vehicle charging spots at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023.

A public restroom near the lobby at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023.

The laundry room provided for guests at The Bella, a boutique hotel in Biloxi, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023.
Supporters of Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro demonstrate against President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, in Brasilia

Supporters of Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro demonstrate against President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, in Brasilia

BRASILIA (Reuters) -Brazil's Supreme Court voted on Thursday to convict the first three people to stand trial for the storming of government buildings in the capital Brasilia on Jan. 8, sentencing them to at least 14 years in prison.

A majority of judges voted to convict Aecio Lucio Costa Pereira, a former employee of water utility Sabesp, who was arrested in the Senate building during the invasion, for crimes that include an attempted coup d'etat, armed criminal association and damage to historic buildings.

Later on Thursday, the Justices also convicted Matheus Lazaro, from southern Parana state. Both their convictions carried sentences of over 15 years in prison and one year and six months of open regime, or supervised house arrest.

A third defendant, Thiago Mathar, was sentenced to 14 years in prison, including 12 years and six months in prison and six months in open regime.

The three were also ordered to pay a fine of 30 million reais ($6 million) for vandalism, but the amount will be shared with other defendants who are yet to be tried.

In January, supporters of far-right former president Jair Bolsonaro invaded and vandalized Brazil's Congress, the presidential palace and the Supreme Court a week after leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva took office, protesting his victory in the October election and calling for a military coup.

Pereira's lawyer, Sebastiao Coelho da Silva, denied there had been an attempted coup d'etat and questioned the severity of the damage. He criticized what he called "political judgment."

Justice Gilmar Mendes said the facts should not be taken in isolation and all those involved must be investigated.

"We are here telling the story of the survival of democracy," Mendes said.

($1 = 4.8702 reais)

(Reporting by Ricardo Brito; Editing by Steven Grattan and Christopher Cushing)
AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - A Dutch dog breeder has been fined 3,000 euros ($3,200) for breeding bulldogs with too short a snout, which leads to breathing difficulties, as the Netherlands cracks down on overbreeding of pets.

The Dutch regulator NVWA, which is part of the agriculture ministry, said on Thursday that an inspection had shown that the French bulldogs used for breeding had abnormally short snouts and irregular respiration, even at rest.

"In order to prevent a repeat offence, NVWA will also impose on this breeder a 1,500 euro penalty each time an unsuitable parent animal is used for breeding," NVWA said. Total penalties could add up to 9,000 euros, it added.

The fine is the first of its kind and marks another step in Dutch authorities' crackdown on the selective breeding of pets for traits such as short snouts or folded ears that can cause discomfort or disease.

Dutch legislation already bans animal breeding that harms the health and wellbeing of the offspring, but agriculture minister Piet Adema is also preparing legislation that will ban the ownership and advertising of all pets with attributes proved to cause medical problems.

A ministry spokesperson said the ministry was working on specifying which traits cause animals to suffer, adding that she expected new legislation to be presented to parliament next year.

"Meanwhile, the application of existing legislation will be tightened," she added.

Utrecht University's animal health faculty has defined criteria for short-snouted dogs used for breeding, including normal respiration at rest, minimum nose length and nostril openings, and the ability to fully close their eyes.

The dogs that can suffer from overbreeding include pugs, boxers and chows. Since 2014, the Netherlands has banned the breeding of Scottish Fold cats, whose ears are bent forward due to a genetic mutation, and Bambino cats, which are short-legged and hairless.

($1 = 0.9350 euros)

(Writing by Geert De Clercq, Editing by William Maclean)
Brevard County officials unveiled a new tool Wednesday meant to help reduce harmful algae blooms in Florida by harvesting them.

 WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS

Harmful algae blooms not only make the waters unsightly, but they can also be unhealthy for humans and fatal for fish and manatees. However, there may be a new tool to fight them.

For seven years, AECOM has been developing technology to reduce algae blooms. Now, theyre partnering up with Brevard County and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to go after and harvest the blooms.

READ: Artist sought to paint mural in new, expanded area of Lake Eola Park

The test pilot for the algae harvesting ship is the Indian River Lagoon in Brevard County. Waters in the lagoon can look clear and beautiful one moment, but in an instant, algae blooms can develop or drift in from elsewhere.

The blooms wreak havoc in the water, killing fish and sea grass, thereby eliminating food sources for aquatic animals like manatees.

It is a huge problem, AECOM algae practice founder Dan Levy said. In 2020 we had harmful algal blooms, we had fish kills in the IRL that lasted for months...now were going to be actually hunting harmful algal blooms.

According to Levy, the barge essentially hunts for the algae, using a 250-foot intake line like a lure.

Using surface skimmers, the barge draws water from the upper layers, where algae accumulates during the day, and sends it through two large tanks.

READ: New Orange-Osceola state attorney policy will use grand jury for officer-involved shootings

What were doing is adding a coagulant to it, Levy explained. That allows us to bind the algae together.

The next step in the process bunches the microscopic algae together into a larger size to the point thats its visible.

Finally, in a third tank, the clumps of algae are inundated with nano-bubbles of oxygen, lifting the algae to the surface and building a blanket of algae that can then be scraped from the surface and collected.

The whole process of separating the algae takes only 30 minutes. In 2018, the same process completely cleaned a residential canal in Lee County in a single day.

Algae-prone states like Florida need to have the most advanced algae fighting capabilities, Levy said. This is just one tool that gives us us that capability.

READ: Fish for Fun: Orange County stocks local pond with thousands of fish for kids event

While the crew was unable to track down an actual algae bloom during Wednesdays demonstration, the harvester was able to collect some algae in the form of a slurry. If an algae bloom was present, the harvester could fill a 1000-gallon tank with algae slurry in eight hours.

Additionally, the algae slurry thats pulled form the water isnt thrown away. Its eventually processed under heat and pressure until its transformed into a type of liquid crude oil, a form of clean energy.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
A tobacco giant British American Tobacco (BAT) has officially announced the completion of the sale of its Russian and Belarusian businesses.

Source: statement by Brirish American Tobacco

Quote: "The sale was carried out according to local and international law after obtaining all necessary permissions."

Background:

Earlier, the British American Tobacco (BAT) reported that it had signed an agreement about selling its Russian and Belarusian businesses.

The buyer is a consortium headed by BAT management in Russia, which will completely own both enterprises after the deal is completed. These enterprises will then be known as ITMS Group.

BAT portfolio includes such cigarette brands as Dunhill, Kent, Vogue, Rothmans, Pall Mall, Lucky Strike, as well as tobacco-heating devices Glo and Neo Sticks.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Former U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson called on Kyiv's Western partners to stop "dragging (their) feet" on military aid and speed up the delivery in a column for the latest September issue of The Spectator.

"There is only one thing they (Ukraine) want from us, and that is the weaponry to finish the job  and so I simply do not understand why we keep dragging our feet," Johnson wrote.

According to the British politician, Ukraine needs primarily man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS), more Patriot air defense systems, and long-range missiles and artillery.

Johnson criticized Washington's apparent reluctance to provide Kyiv with its ATACMS missiles, pointing out that while Ukraine needs around 200 units, the U.S. has thousands in store.

Britain's former head of state, who gained popularity among Ukrainians for his resolute support for Ukraine when he was in office, called on the U.K. to provide more assistance to Ukraine in the form of howitzers, Storm Shadow missiles, air defenses, and drone technology.

Read also: Cleverly: Arming Ukraine is the fastest, and only path to peace

He has highlighted Ukraine's successes on the battlefield, namely thwarting Russia's attempt to capture Kyiv or last fall's counteroffensive in Kharkiv and Kherson oblasts.

While admitting that the current counteroffensive in Ukraine's southeast "is going more slowly than some had hoped," Johnson stressed that it is nevertheless "proceeding" and moving toward the strategic city of Melitopol.

Johnson reminded the Western countries of the stakes of the war's outcome.

"If Putin wins in Ukraine, if he holds even a fraction of what he has taken, then the lesson will be clear: that aggression pays, that European borders can once again be changed by violence," the ex-PM wrote.

"...with (what) all that means for Georgia, the Baltic states, anywhere in the former Soviet Union, or former Soviet sphere of influence, where Putin fancies a revanchist and domestically rabble-rousing military operation."

The British Conservative Party politician who served as the country's prime minister between 2019 and 2022 visited Ukraine several times during the full-scale invasion, both when in office and afterward.

Most recently, Johnson arrived in the country last week, visiting both Kyiv and Lviv and speaking at the Yalta European Strategy (YES) forum.

Read also: Boris Johnson: West must give Ukraine the weapons it needs as fast as possible.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Broward College President Gregory Adam Haile abruptly resigned from his position Wednesday evening, but the Board of Trustees held off accepting his resignation at an emergency board meeting Thursday morning until they could find out what led to his decision.

Like many of the community members who spoke at the emergency session, board members said they were shocked to learn of Hailes resignation and needed to understand more about his decision before determining what action they should take.

The trustees agreed they wanted to see if the issue was fixable. Some members, though, including Chairperson Alexis Yarbrough, whom Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed to the board in February along with two others, acknowledged an agreement may not be up to them.

I dont know how we got here either, she said. There have been some difficult business questions (in meetings), but there has been no indication to indicate that the board desired this outcome. She said she didnt know why Haile resigned, so she didnt know if we have control over the outcome.

Haile, who remains in his role as a result of the boards decision, was not at the meeting. An attempt to reach him through the college was unsuccessful.

The board decision came a little more than an hour after the emergency meeting began and after about a dozen speakers, including those in the business community, urged board members to do whatever you can to keep Haile as the colleges leader and not let him go  the latter a sentiment board members pushed back on.

Craig Farlie, chair of the Broward College Foundation, said losing Haile would be a major loss. At best, he said, it would be destabilizing; at worst, it would be catastrophic. Farlie noted the college is in the midst of one of its largest capital campaigns.

Former Democratic State Sen. Perry Thurston Jr. echoed others, including Farlie, arguing the college has an opportunity to straighten this out. He suggested board members knew more about Hailes resignation than the public. Know that our delegation and our community are watching how this turns out. Were disappointed today. Hopefully, well be encouraged tomorrow, he said.

READ MORE: Who are the six conservative trustees DeSantis installed at New College of Florida?

Haile, 45, who was hired in 2018 as the colleges seventh president, is a highly regarded educator. His annual base salary is about $287,000 and is eligible for supplemental merit pay of $70,000 annually, according to his contract, which goes through June 2024.

He was the first public college president to serve as deputy chair of the Atlanta Federal Reserve Bank. An attorney, he was educated at Columbia University School of Law, where he was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar and editor-in-chief of the National Black Law Journal. He has taught at Harvard University, as well as Broward College and Miami-Dade College. DeSantis appointed him to an education advisory committee and to the Re-Open Florida Task Force.

The college, cant afford to lose Haile, Thurston said.

Changes at other colleges

News of the resignation reached the board and the college community Wednesday.

In an emailed letter sent to the board, Haile described achievements and accomplishments during his tenure, including recognition from The Aspen Institute and securing the largest grant in the colleges history. Haile also cited the establishment of various student support programs, such as a food pantry to address food insecurity among students, and a partnership with Lyft to provide free rides for students with transportation challenges. (Broward College is the fourth-largest community college in the country. Miami Dade College is the largest.)

Still, Haile said in the letter, It is time to move on.

Also mentioned in his letter were the boards recent appointments. Along with Yarbrough, DeSantis appointed two other new board members in February  Cindy Kushner and Mario Zanotti-Cavazzoni  and reappointed Zachariah Reggie Zachariah Jr., the current vice chair, to the five-person board.

Though Hailes letter said no board members requested his resignation, various speakers Thursday alluded to what they believed to be a potentially fractured relationship between the two parties.

Dan Lindblade, president and CEO of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, for one, suggested there could be communication issues based on questions asked at previous meetings. But, he said, theres ways to work things out.

READ MORE: FAUs frozen presidential search sparks heated committee meeting, ethics accusations

Since the beginning of the year, DeSantis has been appointing new, more conservative members to state college and university boards. In January, he appointed six new trustees to the board at New College, a state school in Sarasota that prided itself on its liberal arts education. At the time, New College President Patricia Okker called the board changes a hostile takeover. The new board fired her.

The board of Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton held a heated board meeting in August amid a contentious presidential search, with some board members slamming the process while others defended it, the Sun-Sentinel reported. The search committee had named three finalists; the list did not include Florida House Rep. Randy Fine, a Republican from Brevard County whom DeSantis supported. The states Board of Governors froze the search in July, citing anomalies in the search process.
Idaho murders suspect Bryan Kohberger was back in court Wednesday where a judge heard arguments on cameras in the courtroom. The hearing ended with no decision made in the matter.

Both the defence and the prosecution asked to restrict cameras as the case of the brutal slayings of four University of Idaho students continues to attract national attention.

Latah County District Judge John Judge said other trials with cameras have spun out of control in his opinion and that he wished everyone had more respect for what is happening,  not entertainment, it is a tragic issue.

The defence team has claimed the media coverage violated Kohbergers constitutional rights and said if there is a camera, it should not be soley focused on him. The prosecution requested the cameras be removed during sensitive testimony.

Mr Kohberger, the former criminology PhD student, was indicted earlier this year in the November 2022 killings of Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin.

Ahead of the hearing, the families of Goncalves and Kernodle released a statement saying that they want to keep cameras in the courtroom as they want the veil of secrecy to be lifted from the case.

Key points

Bryan Kohberger to appear in court today

Families of Kaylee Goncalves and Xana Kernodle want cameras in court

Prosecutors and defence want cameras banned from trial

Kohberger judge has concerns about misinformation spreading from images taken from video if cameras are allowed in courtroom

03:00 , Andrea Cavallier

At Bryan Kohbergers hearing on Wednesday, Judge John Judge brought up concerns about misinformation spreading if cameras were to be allowed in the courtroom.

Can I really trust the media to do the right thing? he said. And its not necessarily the camera people. Its where that video goes.. And how commentators talk about it.

Wendy Olsen, the attorney representing the media coalition, responded to the judge arguing the way to battle misinformation is to provide the accurate information, Ms Olsen said.

The accurate information is what happens inside this courtroom with the cameras positioned in a place that provides the best, most overall perspective of the courtroom.

Kohberger back in court 22 September on motion to dismiss Idaho murders charges

01:18 , Andrea Cavallier

The Idaho murders suspect will be back in court in a week - on 22 September - where Judge John Judge will hear the defences argument regarding their motion to dismiss dismiss the charges against him.

The 28-year-old is charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one charge of felony burglary related to the November 2022 killings of four college students.

He waived his right to a speedy trial, delaying it indefinitely, and then filed a motion to dismiss the charges.

The motion was filed on grounds of a biased grand jury, inadmissible evidence, lack of sufficient evidence, and prosecutorial misconduct by withholding exculpatory evidence.

No decision today on cameras in the courtroom

Wednesday 13 September 2023 22:56 , Andrea Cavallier

Court was adjourned less than an hour after the hearing began with a decision on cameras in the courtroom.

Judge says the Idaho murders trial is not entertainment, but a tragic issue

Wednesday 13 September 2023 22:54 , Andrea Cavallier

Attorney for the media is pushing for the pool camera policy - with one camera in Kohberger courtroom, and then video will be given out to all media.

The judge says he questions whether he can really trust the media to do the right thing. And added that its not the camera people, but its where the video goes and how commentators talk about it or how its portrayed on social media.

Its not the same media it is now as it was 10 years ago with social media, he said.

The judge then said he wished everyone had more respect for what is happening and that its not entertainment, it is a tragic issue.

The judge said other trials with cameras have gotten out of control.

They spun out of control in my opinion, he said.

Prosecution in Kohberger case want cameras removed during certain testimony

Wednesday 13 September 2023 22:45 , Andrea Cavallier

The prosecution told the judge the media plays an important role in the court process.

But said theyd want to protect vulnerable witnesses who testified and graphic evidence that is shown during the trial.

They say the safest and best way to address concerns is to prohibit cameras in the courtroom, or to keep cameras out during certain testimony/evidence.

Judge mentions OJ Simpson case, says it was a circus as he questions cameras in the courtroom

Wednesday 13 September 2023 22:42 , Andrea Cavallier

The judge told the court that he questions whether cameras in the courtroom are a dignified way to have a trial. He brings up OJ Simpson.

If anyone watched that case, it was a circus, he said.

Social media users take images from the media and manipulate them, defence says

Wednesday 13 September 2023 22:31 , Andrea Cavallier

The defence told the judge that while they know the media is doing their job, there are people on social media who take the images or video and manipulate them.

There is also concern about the placement of the cameras in the courtroom.

The defence said they do not like where the cameras are placed and said if the cameras are not removed, then they should be in a different location.

Kohberger defence concerned cameras in the courtroom will turn case into a spectacle

Wednesday 13 September 2023 22:27 , Andrea Cavallier

Defence attorneys for Kohberger said at his hearing that they are concerned that allowing cameras in the courtroom would turn the proceedings into a spectacle - a TV drama.

Judge says media cannot be intervenors at this point in Kohberger proceedings

Wednesday 13 September 2023 22:20 , Andrea Cavallier

Judge John Judge says the media cannot be intervenors at this point in the Kohberger proceedings when it comes to the question of cameras in the courtroom.

But says he will consider the medias argument.

Media attorney argues the people have a right to see what is happening inside courtroom during Kohberger proceedings

Wednesday 13 September 2023 22:13 , Andrea Cavallier

The hearing on Wednesday began with the Judge questioning whether the media has the right to intervene about the camera issue at this point in the Kohberger case, according to NewsNations reporter Brian Entin who is at the hearing in Latah County.

One of the attorneys representing the media coalition fired back that the media does have the right to intervene when the First Amendment and access issues come up.

The attorney said this is an "access" issue, and that people have the right to see what is happening in the Kohberger courtroom. She added that people should not have to travel to the Idaho courtroom to see what is happening inside.

The attorney also said there is an increasing need for people to see for themselves what is going on inside courtrooms in this country.

Attorney representing media coalition says this is an "access" issue -- that people have the right to see what is happening in the Kohberger courtroom.

She says people should not have to travel to the courtroom to see what is happening inside.  Brian Entin (@BrianEntin) September 13, 2023

Happening now: Judge in Bryan Kohbergers case hears arguments on motion to ban cameras from the courtroom

Wednesday 13 September 2023 22:02 , Andrea Cavallier

Idaho murders suspect Bryan Kohberger is back in court where a judge is hearing arguments on a motion to ban cameras from the courtroom in the high-profile trial.

Those in attendance at the hearing in Latah County is the prosecution, the defence and the attorney representing a media coalition, according to local reporters seated in the courtroom,

Attorneys for both the defence and the prosecution have asked to restrict cameras as the case.

Bryan Kohberger claims media are focusing on his crotch

Wednesday 13 September 2023 21:30 , Andrea Cavallier

Bryan Kohberger is about to appear in court in Latah County today in an effort to ban cameras from his high-profile trial after bizarrely claiming that the media is honing in on his crotch.

The hearing is set for 2pm local time (5pm Eastern Time).

On 24 August, Mr Kohbergers attorney Anne Taylor argued that past footage from his court appearances had focused heavily on his crotch.

Mr. Kohberger is entitled to defend himself against capital criminal charges without cameras focused on his fly, his attorney wrote, adding that the media had been previously warned not to focus solely on Mr Kohberger but failed to comply.

A group of media outlets have pushed back on the defences request motion, asking the judge to allow cameras to remain. They argued that no photographic or film coverage had focused on his fly.

Although Mr. Kohberger argues that he is entitled to defend himself against capital charges without cameras focused on his fly, that assertion misstates the role that courtroom camera coverage played in the X social media post that appears at page 3 of his motion. No photographs or camera coverage focused on Mr. Kohbergers fly, it states.

Families of Idaho murder victims call for cameras in Bryan Kohbergers trial

Wednesday 13 September 2023 21:00 , Andrea Cavallier

The families of two Idaho murders victims have called for cameras to document the trial of suspect Bryan Kohberger.

The families of Kayle Goncalves, 21, and Xana Kernodle, 20, broke from prosecutors and called for Mr Kohbergers trial to be open to the public to view and watch.

It comes after Mr Kohberger filed a motion on 24 August asking the judge to toss cameras from the courtroom.

A hearing on the matter will be held today at 2pm local time (5pm Eastern Time).

Rachel Sharp reports:

Families of Idaho murder victims call for cameras in Bryan Kohbergers trial

What is Idaho murders suspect Bryan Kohberger charged with?

Wednesday 13 September 2023 20:00 , Andrea Cavallier

Bryan Kohberger is charged with four counts of murder in connection with the deaths of four University of Idaho students at their off-campus house in Moscow, Idaho, last November.

A judge entered a not-guilty plea on Kohbergers behalf earlier this year.

Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson has said he intends to seek the death penalty.

The trial was set to start on 3 October, but Kohberger waived his right to a speedy trial, delaying it indefinitely.

Kohberger and his attorney, public defender Anne Taylor

What time is Bryan Kohbergers hearing?

Wednesday 13 September 2023 17:15 , Andrea Cavallier

The Idaho murders suspect is scheduled to be in court in Latah County at 2pm local time (PT).

Attorneys for both the defence and the prosecution have asked to restrict cameras as the case of the brutal slayings of four University of Idaho students continues to attract national attention.

Judge John Judge will hear arguments before making a decision.

Why attorneys want cameras out of the courtroom

Wednesday 13 September 2023 16:00 , Andrea Cavallier

Attorneys for both the prosecution and defence are trying to keep cameras out of the courtroom, citing concerns over recent media coverage.

Mr Kohbergers defence team has been in favor of banning cameras from the courtroom, arguing that the coverage is hurting their clients right to a fair trial.

The prosecution joined in weeks later, filing a motion stating that they were concerned that cameras will have a substantial chilling effect on the ability of witnesses to openly, fully and candidly testify about some horrible occurrences.

The families of two of the victims Kaylee Goncalves and Xana Kernodle say they want a fair trial. But in order for that to happen, cameras need to be present in the courtroom, they said in a statement.

Does Bryan Kohberger have an alibi?

Wednesday 13 September 2023 15:00 , Andrea Cavallier

Months after his arrest, Bryan Kohberger finally offered up a vague alibi for the night that he is accused of brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death.

The 28-year-old claims he was out on a solo drive throughout the night of 12 November and into the early hours of 13 November  but admits that there are no witnesses to back up his version of events.

Mr. Kohberger has long had a habit of going for drives alone. Often he would go for drives at night, his attorney Anne Taylor wrote in a court filing.

He did so late on November 12 and into November 13, 2022. Mr. Kohberger is not claiming to be at a specific location at a specific time; at this time there is not a specific witness to say precisely where Mr. Kohberger was at each moment of the hours between late night November 12, 2022 and early morning November 13, 2022.

He was out, driving during the late night and early morning hours of November 12-13, 2022.

Bryan Kohberger to appear in court today

Wednesday 13 September 2023 14:00 , Andrea Cavallier

Idaho murders suspect Bryan Kohberger will appear in court today in Latah County, Idaho, where a judge will hear arguments from both sides who have filed motions to ban cameras from the courtroom.

The defence filed the motion in August to ban cameras from proceedings arguing the media coverage is hurting their clients right to a fair trial.

The state then joined the defence in the effort to ban cameras, writing that they should be removed at a minimum during sensitive witness testimony.

Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson said in the filing that the team is concerned that cameras will have a substantial chilling effect on the ability of witnesses to openly, fully and candidly testify about some horrible occurrences.

The hearing is set for 2pm local time (PT) in Latah County, Idaho.

What we still dont know in Idaho murders case

Wednesday 13 September 2023 13:40 , Rachel Sharp

Many questions remain about the case that shocked America.

No murder weapon has ever been found.

It is not known if the killer personally knew one or more of the victims or what the motive may have been.

Authorities have refused to reveal who made the 911 call and will not release the audio. It is unclear what the roommates and other friends discussed in the call and what led them to describe a victim as merely unconscious.

RECAP: Why Idaho victims mother will not attend Bryan Kohbergers trial

Wednesday 13 September 2023 13:20 , Rachel Sharp

Families of Kaylee Goncalves and Xana Kernodle want cameras in court

Wednesday 13 September 2023 12:58 , Rachel Sharp

The families of Kaylee Goncalves and Xana Kernodle have released a statement saying that they want to keep cameras in the courtroom as they want the veil of secrecy to be lifted from the case.

Read the statement below:

It is vitally important that this trial be open to the public to view and watch. There is an enormous amount of media coverage about this case (some good, some bad) and with that comes the responsibility of the Court to ensure a fair trial. The thing that is most overlooked in reviewing the motions filed by the State (who took no position in its original motion dated June 6, 2023-stating it relied on the discretion of the Court and now is taking a different position) and the Defense is faith in the justice system.

This Case is surrounded by secrecy. Everything is either sealed or redacted. The family has not received any discovery on this case or any information about the facts of the case from the State. No one knows anything about the case which leads to speculation. That speculation is fueled by the secrecy surrounding everything that is filed and every hearing that is closed off to the media and the public. Only through independent investigation has the Family been able to get some information.

So it is vitally important that the trial be viewed publicly! It is important to the victims family, relatives, community members and the public that this veil of secrecy be lifted at trial. This not only ensures accountability for all the parties involved but also helps the public maintain its faith in the justice system!

Bryan Kohberger files motion to dismiss Idaho murders charges

Wednesday 13 September 2023 11:00 , Andrea Cavallier

Just days after Kohberger waived his right to a speedy trial, delaying it indefinitely, defence attorneys for the Idaho murders suspect filed a motion to dismiss the charges against him.

The motion was filed on grounds of a biased grand jury, inadmissible evidence, lack of sufficient evidence, and prosecutorial misconduct by withholding exculpatory evidence.

The 28-year-old is charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one charge of felony burglary related to the November 2022 killings of four college students.

A hearing on the motion to dismiss has been set for 22 September.

Who is Bryan Kohberger?

Wednesday 13 September 2023 09:00 , Andrea Cavallier

Bryan Kohbergers name has been in headlines across America since police swooped in on his parents home in December and arrested him for the brutal murders of four University of Idaho students.

There are people from Mr Kohbergers past who have painted a picture of a bullied loner who overcame addiction.

Meanwhile, fellow students from his time as a PhD criminology student at Washington State University describe him as a criminology zealot who creeped people out.

With the 28-year-old now facing the death penalty in the case, The Independent asks: Who really is Bryan Kohberger?

Sheila Flynn has more:

Who is Bryan Kohberger?

Kohberger was investigated after complaints from female students, former school administrator reveals

Wednesday 13 September 2023 05:00 , Andrea Cavallier

Former high school administrator Tanya Carmella-Beers discussed with The Idaho Massacre podcast last month issues with Mr Kohberger when he attended the programme at the Monroe Career and Technical Institute.

A complaint was made, and the teacher reported it to me, and said, You know, this is not something we can have, Ms Carmella-Beers said.

An investigation needed to be conducted. Other students were interviewed. Bryan was interviewed. And there comes a time when decisions have to be made, whether its the decision the student wants or not.

Mr Kohberger was kicked out of the law enforcement programme and transferred to the heating, ventilation and air condition course instead before leaving the school.

Read more

Bryan Kohberger was investigated at high school over complaints from female students

Does Kohberger have an alibi? Idaho murders suspect says he was out for a solo drive at the time of the slayings

Wednesday 13 September 2023 02:00 , Andrea Cavallier

Kohberger was on a long drive by himself around the time of the slayings of the four college students last November, his defence team wrote in a court filing last month.

Its the first time Kohberger has said anything about his whereabouts that night.

Mr. Kohberger has long had a habit of going for drives alone. Often he would go for drives at night, his defence attorney, Anne Taylor, wrote. He did so late on November 12 and into November 13, 2022.

According to the court document, Mr Kohberger isnt claiming to be in any specific location at any specific time, and may have witnesses who can corroborate that he wasnt at the home where the students were killed.

Idaho law requires that defendants notify the prosecution if they intend to present an alibi defence, The Associated Press reported.

Will cameras be banned from the courtroom in Kohberger trial? Heres what to expect at tomorrows hearing

Wednesday 13 September 2023 00:00 , Andrea Cavallier

Latah County District Judge John Judge will hear arguments on Wednesday regarding cameras in the courtroom in the case against Bryan Kohberger.

Mr Kohbergers defence attorneys filed a motion last month to ban cameras from proceedings arguing the media coverage is hurting their clients right to a fair trial and cites sensationalistic and prejudicial headlines and content.

The motion states the content gradually poisons the potential jury pool prior to trial even occurring, winnowing the number of jurors able to render a just, unbiased verdict.

Last week, prosecutors filed a motion siding with the defence and said they believe cameras in the courtroom will have a substantial chilling effect on the ability of witnesses to openly, fully and candidly testify about some horrible occurrences.

Families of Idaho college murder victims say it's important the trial be viewed publicly

Tuesday 12 September 2023 22:00 , Andrea Cavallier

The families of two of the victims in last years Idaho killings are pushing back against Bryan Kohbergers motion to ban cameras in the courtroom for his trial.

In a statement to NewsNations Brian Entin, the families of Kaylee Goncalves and Xana Kernodle said this case is surrounded by secrecy with everything being redacted or sealed - and that it is important the trial be viewed publicly.

It is important to the victims family, relatives, community members and the public that this veil of secrecy be lifted at the trial, the statement reads. This not only ensures accountability for all the parties involved but also helps the public maintain its faith in the justice system.

Both the Kohberger defense and prosecution filed motions to have cameras removed from the courtroom. The hearing to hear arguments on the motions will be held Wednesday in Latah County, Idaho.

Both the Kohberger defense and prosecution filed motions to have cameras removed from the courtroom. Ill be in court tomorrow in ID when a judge will hear arguments. Goncalves and Kernodle families sent me this statement  they say it is important the trial be viewed publicly. pic.twitter.com/jS4OCfJ2nL  Brian Entin (@BrianEntin) September 12, 2023

Who are the victims in the Idaho murders case?

Tuesday 12 September 2023 20:00 , Andrea Cavallier

The bodies of University of Idaho students Madison Mogen, 21; Kaylee Goncalves, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; and Ethan Chapin, 20, were found 13 November 2022 at their off-campus house in Moscow, Idaho.

The slayings shocked the rural Idaho community and neighboring Pullman, Washington, where suspect Bryan Kohberger was a graduate student studying criminology at Washington State University.

Goncalves and Mogen, both 21, were seniors at the University of Idaho and were expected to graduate this year.

Kernodle and Chapin were juniors at the college and had begun dating months before their deaths. The couple of 20-year-olds is believed to have been awake at the time the stabbings were carried out.

Six months after the stabbings, the families of the slain students accepted posthumous awards for their achievements.

Mogen and Goncalves relatives walked across the stage for their degrees in an emotional ceremony on 13 May. Kernodles family also accepted her certificate in marketing at a separate ceremony while Chapins award in sports, recreation and management was mailed to his parents.

Ethan Chapin, 20, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21, were killed in November 2022 (Instagram)

Bryan Kohberger claims media are focusing on his crotch as he demands court camera ban

Tuesday 12 September 2023 18:00 , Andrea Cavallier

Bryan Kohberger is seeking to ban cameras from his high-profile trial after bizarrely claiming that the media is honing in on his crotch.

The former criminal justice PhD student filed a motion on 24 August asking Judge John Judge to toss cameras from the courtroom.

In the defence motion, his attorney Anne Taylor argued that past footage from his court appearances had focused heavily on his crotch.

Weeks later, the prosecution joined the effort, but for a different reason. They said there is concern that cameras will have a substantial chilling effect on the ability of witnesses to openly, fully and candidly testify about some horrible occurrences.

A hearing on banning cameras from the courtroom will be held at 2pm on Wednesday.

Rachel Sharp reports...

Bryan Kohberger claims cameras are focusing on his crotch as he seeks ban

Bryan Kohberger to appear in court on Wednesday

Tuesday 12 September 2023 16:50 , Andrea Cavallier

Bryan Kohberger is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday for a hearing on the latest in the murders of four University of Idaho students in Moscow, Idaho.

The 28-year-old criminology PhD student will appear in Latah County Court at 2pm local time on Wednesday where Judge John Judge will hear arguments on a motion to ban cameras in the courtroom.

Mr Kohbergers defence team asked the judge to bar cameras from the courtroom, claiming that the media coverage violated his constitutional rights.

Last week, Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Bill Thompson responded to the motion with his own concerns and requested the judge remove cameras at a minimum during the sensitive testimony of a number of young and vulnerable witnesses.

Read more...

Prosecutors join Bryan Kohbergers effort to block cameras from Idaho murders trial

Welcome to The Independents liveblog

Tuesday 12 September 2023 16:45 , Andrea Cavallier

Follow all the latest updates on Bryan Kohbergers case
The Bulgarian Parliament has voted in favor of lifting the countrys ban on Ukrainian grain imports, local outlet News 24-7 reported on Sep. 14.

"Taking into account the solidarity of Bulgaria with Ukraine, Bulgaria does not support the extension of the emergency measure banning the import of wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower from Ukraine to Bulgaria, Poland, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia after September 15, 2023," the parliament said in a press release.

Read also: EU pressuring Ukraines neighbors to drop politically motivated grain export ban extension

The draft decision was previously approved by the Committee on Economic Policy and Innovation, causing "shock" among local farmers who do not support it.

Hungary plans to implement a full national ban on Ukrainian grain imports in cooperation with Romania and Slovakia if the EU doesnt extend the existing ban set to expire on Sept. 15, according to Hungarys Minister of Agriculture, Istvan Nagy, on Sept. 13.

Read also: Ukraine to use WTO arbitration in response to extended grain import embargo by Poland

Poland unilaterally decided to extend its ban on Ukrainian grain exports after Sept. 15.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Bulgaria's National Assembly, the country's parliament, voted on Sept. 14 against extending the import ban on certain Ukrainian agricultural products beyond Sept. 15, the Sofia Globe reported.

The vote, preceded by a two-hour debate, passed by a comfortable majority with 124 lawmakers voting in support, 69 against, and five abstaining, the outlet said.

The Assembly still requires the Bulgarian government to express its position. According to the Sofia Globe, the government has already voiced support for the move, arguing that it will reduce prices of foodstuffs and curb inflation.

Addressing any lingering concerns, Agriculture Minister Kiril Vatev reportedly said during the debate in the parliament that measures to control all Ukrainian goods, especially cereals, had been stepped up, with strict checks for the presence of radioactivity, heavy metals, herbicides, and pesticides.

The motion not to prolong the ban was proposed earlier this week by the governing GERB-SDS and PP-DB parties, as well as the opposition party DPS.

The previous caretaker government appointed by Bulgarian President Rumen Radev joined Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, and Poland in the push for the EU-instituted ban on domestic sales of certain Ukrainian grain products in these five countries. The measure is currently set to expire on Sept. 15.

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us

The five states were reacting to the pressure from their farmers, who feared that cheaper Ukrainian imports would threaten domestic production. The influx of grain from Ukraine also created logistical bottlenecks.

However, the news outlet Euroactiv suggested that the previous cabinet ignored the interests of consumers and of Bulgarian sunflower oil producers.

As the country traditionally imports 30% of its sunflower seeds from Ukraine, the embargo puts serious constraints on the domestic production of sunflower oil.

Bulgaria's new government under Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov also took a more decisively pro-Ukrainian stance in its policies, expediting military aid despite opposition by President Radev.

Unlike Sofia, Warsaw has appealed to the European Commission for the prolongation of the ban and said that Poland will impose restrictions at the national level if the measure is not extended.

Hungary's Agriculture Minister Istvan Nagy said on Sept. 13 that Budapest will extend the ban unilaterally if necessary, alleging that Romania, Slovakia, and even Bulgaria took the same position.

Ukraine, one of the world's leading grain producers, is seeking alternative routes for its exports after Russia's unilateral withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative on July 17.

Kyiv asked the EU not to prolong the ban, saying it would be "unacceptable" to continue the restriction past Sept. 15.

This measure did not restrict the transit of Ukrainian produce through the territories of the said states. Romania, Poland, and Bulgaria even introduced or discussed measures to expand their transit capacity of Ukrainian grain.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The Kyiv Independents findings point to the systemic and deliberate nature of child murders by the Russian military in Ukraine. Our in-depth investigation allowed us to identify those responsible for the killing of a child.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Burbank Mayor Konstantine Anthony is facing criticism from largely conservative circles after he was recorded on video being spanked by a drag queen over the weekend, but hes defending his actions and arguing that some of those critics are responding out of anti-LGBTQ+ bigotry.

In the video, Anthony can be seen getting spanked, a moment the clip shows synced to the Village Peoples Macho Man.

Comments on the video, which was posted by the Armenian-American podcast WiseNuts, largely disparaged Anthony and his decision to participate. For its part, the WiseNuts account added the hashtags #beaman, #clownshow and #embarrassing.

This is an excellent example of the humiliation a man will subject himself to in order to pander to the degenerate alphabet cult crowd. He debases the honor of elected office every time he appears in public, wrote James Clarke, a candidate for state Assembly.

Im so proud of our Mayor in Burbank. He achieved the maximum level of stupidity, added Alex Badalian.

In a City Council meeting on Tuesday, Anthony decided to respond to the critics.

There were some shenanigans, some silly stuff happened, it was all fun and games, he said. Unbeknownst to the people in attendance, there was a secret video that was made and then shared to a very prominent hate group.

Anthony did not specify the hate group to which he referred, but he possibly was referencing the prominent X  formerly Twitter  account Libs of TikTok, which reposted the video. It has been viewed 8 million times.

While the account claimed children were present, Anthony responded to their post with his assertion that actually, there werent any children at this private 21+ event. But of course, lying is totally on brand for you.

While the account correctly pointed out that people 15 and older were allowed to attend, the organizer of the Drag Queen Bingo event, the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats, released a statement explaining that no one under the age of 18 was present.

Anthony reiterated that no minors were present when he addressed the City Council meeting, and he added that the videos spread has led to city officials receiving some of the most vile hate speech that I have ever seen.

Anthony suggested those who take issue with his actions email him directly at kanthony@burbankca.gov.

If you want to talk to me about what happened over the weekend, send me an email. Send me an email. I will talk to you about it, he said. There is no reason to involve all of the other people who were not at a public event, not at a government-sponsored event. It wasnt even in the city of Burbank.

During the public comment portion that followed Anthonys address, Burbank resident Joel Schlossman criticized the mayors behavior.

There are people in this city with morals who care, he said. You cannot be a piece of s when you go home and then come here and put on a suit and think that youre high and mighty  We have somebody sitting at the head of the dais that is the lowest of the low.

As an example of Anthonys alleged immoral behavior, Schlossman claimed that the mayor and his wife practice polyamory.

Theres many people that disagree with it. Its an insult to marriage, and he insults marriage, said Schlossman, who added kiss my ass as he left the speakers podium.

In a statement released Tuesday, the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats backed Anthony, adding that they vehemently condemn[ed] the sensationalized and inaccurate use of our event for political clickbait in order to promote an agenda of fear, homophobia, transphobia, and bigotry.

The Democrats further explained that as an organization, we refuse to engage with this fake outrage.

We continue to stand in support of the LGBTQ+ community and Drag performers, the statement added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
Cahokia Community Unit School District 187 is taking an alternative route to securing funding for a new high school that doesnt require putting a bond referendum on a ballot.

On Monday, the districts board held a public hearing on the issuance of $139 million in debt, $89 million of which is through general obligation lease certificates that will go to the construction of a replacement for the existing 71-year-old school at 800 Range Lane.

Its been a long time coming but the district is so much closer now to finally building a high school that has been desired in the community for so long, Assistant Superintendent Arnett Harvey said during the hearing.

In addition to the $89 million in lease certificates, the district will rely on about $30 million in the districts working cash fund from bonds it sold in 2020 and about $20 million of freed-up reserves from the third wave of federal Covid-19 funding that will supplant salaries to fund the new school.

The district hopes to have sufficient funds to break ground on a new high school next spring and for the building to be ready for move-in by the fall of 2026, Harvey said in an interview after the hearing.

The other debt included in Mondays hearing was $25 million in working cash bonds and $25 million in funding bonds.

No members of the board or the public provided any comments during the hearing on the issuance of the lease certificates and bonds.

During the Aug. 14 board meeting, the board adopted resolutions to authorize the issuance of the lease certificates and declare its intention to issue the working cash and funding bonds. It then posted public notices for Mondays hearing as well as its intent to issue the general obligation lease certificates, working cash bonds and funding bonds on Aug. 20.

Now that the hearing has been completed, the district will market the lease certificates and bonds to investors to get the most favorable terms possible, Harvey said.

What that takes is the forensic discussion about the boards wherewithal to repay debt and the communitys wherewithal to assist in that process as its necessary, without putting an excessive burden on the community, he said.

After the district sells the bonds, the board would then work with architects, building designers and builders to continue the anticipated three-year project.

Harvey said the idea is that the district wont have to spend all of that money but will have enough funds on hand to be able to complete the project once its started. He said the district also wants to be sure to build a facility that meets both its current and future needs from a growth standpoint.

The district tried twice to pass bond referendums  $50 million in 2011 and $32 million in 2012  to build and equip a new high school.

The board also considered a referendum in the early to mid 2000s, Harvey said, but it didnt make it to the ballot.

What are lease certificates and bonds?

Lease certificates, like bonds, are a form of long-term debt a district can use to raise money for capital projects like building a new school.

As with bonds, a school district issues and sells the lease certificates and then pays back the principal amount plus interest over a set number of years.

The difference between general obligation lease certificates and bonds is how theyre repaid.

General obligation bond debt requires approval of a districts voters if there is an accompanying tax. It is then paid for out of a debt service fund.

General obligation lease certificate debt can be paid from the districts general operating funds, which include the education, operation and maintenance, transportation and working cash funds.

Cahokia 187 has been building up its education and working cash fund balances. According to the 2024 fiscal year budget, which the board adopted at Mondays meeting, the district estimates it will have about $63.6 million between its education and working cash funds at the end of the fiscal year on June 30, 2024.

Its seen its better days

Cahokia High School was built in the late 1940s and established in 1952.

Needless to say, over those years of usage, with the number of students whove been in the building and just useful life of a building, its seen its better days, Harvey said.

While the school has more than $30 million in health and life safety repairs in the building now, none of the concerns have required the school to shut down, Harvey said, but surely they hamper our students educational needs. And sometimes the safety issues are there if youve got roofing problems, if you have water leak problems, that sort of thing.

He said the district was approved for funding from the Capital Development Board in 2004, but the state of Illinois didnt have funding at the time to support approved projects.
"Re-globalization is in our common interest," says WTO chief economist

Xinhua) 08:21, September 14, 2023

World Trade Organization (WTO) chief economist Ralph Ossa speaks during an interview with Xinhua at the WTO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, Sept. 12, 2023. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

"Globalization is really at a crossroads," as the tide is turning against it, but there's still time to act, said Ralph Ossa, chief economist of WTO.

GENEVA, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- "Re-globalization is in our common interest," Ralph Ossa, chief economist of the World Trade Organization (WTO), told Xinhua in a recent interview.

According to Ossa, re-globalization means increased international cooperation and broader integration and is key to addressing the pressing challenges of our time and to building a secure, inclusive and sustainable future.

On Tuesday, the WTO published the 2023 edition of the World Trade Report. This flagship document presents new evidence of the benefits of broader, more inclusive economic integration as early indications of trade fragmentation threaten to unwind growth and development.

The report aims at challenging the rising trade-skeptic narrative, which suggests that international trade is an obstacle to building a more secure, inclusive and sustainable world, he said. Such narrative is "fundamentally different from the narrative that has been guiding trade policymaking since 1947."

"Globalization is really at a crossroads," as the tide is turning against it, but there's still time to act, he said.

This aerial photo taken on Feb. 23, 2023 shows the Qinzhou Port in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. (Xinhua)

Trade policy tensions are on the rise and the first signs of fragmentation along geopolitical lines are already visible, but overall trade is holding up strong, hence the talk of de-globalization is certainly exaggerated, he noted.

"The economic costs of fragmentation are going to be large," Ossa said. A simulation made by WTO economists suggests that in the worst-case scenario of full geopolitical rivalry, global incomes on average will fall by 5 percent, and trade flows on average will fall by 13 percent, he added.

To maintain peace and security, to reduce poverty and inequality, and also to achieve a sustainable economy, "we need to embrace trade and not reject it ... we also need a multilateral trading system," he stressed.

According to the chief economist, the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement, which entered into force on Feb. 22, 2017, has increased trade by 231 billion U.S. dollars. These gains have particularly accrued to developing countries, indicating that the agreement takes important steps towards re-globalization, he said.

Visitors taste whisky at the booth of Japan during the 2023 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) at China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 4, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Mengqi)

Speaking of China's role in the re-globalization process, Ossa said that China is a supporter of the multilateral trading system and also of globalization.

China has benefited from participating in the multilateral trading system and has achieved spectacular economic growth, lifting millions of people out of poverty, thereby giving hope to developing countries around the world, he added.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
This is a developing story; check back with sacbee.com for updates.

Despite scorching verbal jabs and impassioned pleas from students, the trustees of the California State University system voted 15-5 Wednesday to approve raising tuition by 6% annually over a five-year period starting in the 2024-25 academic year.

Sacramento State student Michael Lee-Chang joined dozens of CSU students who made the trek to Long Beach yesterday to comment at the trustees meeting. Lee-Chang said he was furious about the decision.

It was mentally draining to watch the Board of Trustees meeting and hearing each trustee talk about their own difficult upbringing and how moved they were by students public comments, yet voting yes to a tuition increase that could lock out who knows how many students from the nations most affordable and diverse public university system, he said. They refused to delay the vote to properly research the adverse effects of the tuition increase and refused to reduce the duration of the tuition increase to three or four years.

He added: Its careless and disgusting; it doesnt feel like they care about students at all.

California State University interim Chancellor Jolene Koester, right, addresses the CSU Board of Trustees, students and union members attending a meeting at the CSU Chancellors Office, Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, in Long Beach. The California State Universitys Board of Trustees on Wednesday voted to raise tuition for students by 6% each year for five years. Far left, Lillian Kimbell and California Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis.

Facing an impending structural deficit of $1.5 billion, many trustees said they had to focus on long-term financial stability. Tuition and allocations from the states general fund are CSUs major sources of revenue.

We do not want to be forced to diminish the CSU, and what we have been doing with our budgets is deferring costs, not filling vacancies, deferring maintenance, said Wenda Fong, the chair of the board of trustees. It has constantly built up and built up and built up. We need to address this now.

Interim Chancellor Jolene Koester assembled a team of people last year to look at how to build a sustainable financial model for CSU, and that advsiory group recommended tuition increases and outlined different methods of implementing them.

The cost of educating CSU students has risen quite a bit over the years, according to a report to the advisory team, because many students are among the first in their families to go to college and attended high schools that didnt prepare them for the rigors of college courses.

This trend is not unique to CSU, the report noted, and colleges around the nation are offering additional educational and support services to help a more diverse student population. The CSU staff said they planned to set aside money from any tuition increase to expand upon this work with students.

The new tuition revenue will be allocated to address specific student needs  tutoring, advising, additional course offerings, as well as services that support student basic needs and mental health, CSU leaders said in a statement sent to The Bee.

The advisory team studying a sustainable financial path for CSU met for eight months and issued a lengthy report, but Lee-Chang said he had found few students at Sac State who knew that the board of trustees was considering a tuition hike. As part of his grassroots organizing work, Lee-Chang said he had spoken to 1,000 Sac State students about the proposed tuition increase.

It was difficult even to find the Q&A that officials had put on the CSU website, he said, where they posted answers to questions that the staff and trustees were frequently fielding. Lee-Chang said Koester and other trustees should have been communicating all findings with the 460,000 students on CSUs 23 campuses.

Even with the added monies from tuition, the CSU staff and trustees said, the university system would still need additional funding from the state to close expected budget gaps.

Student Trustee Jonathan Molina Mancio, a graduate of California State University, Dominguez Hills, voted against the tuition hike, but he said that trustees were stuck between a sword and a rock on this vote. If they fell forward, he said, they would stab themselves, and if they fell backward, they would slam against stone.

When his fellow trustees asked what he might need as he fielded student concerns, Molina Mancio said he would like to have a communications plan.

California Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis and state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond also opposed the tuition increase. Kounalakis urged her fellow trustees to take more time to consider the hardship of tuition increases, and Thurmond supported an amendment proposed by Student Trustee Diana Aguilar-Cruz to curtail the increases at four years. Both attempts failed to garner support.

The CSU Chancellors Office said that, if the tuition increase was approved, they would commit to inviting student representatives to join them in an assessment of the hikes effects in 2027. The trustees also would have to authorize any tuition changes in the 2029-30 academic year, CSU leaders said, and they could vote to revisit the scheduled increases at any time.

The trustees said their plans add financial aid funds that would be aimed at ensuring that no student would have to quit school because of the hike. Trustee Julia Lopez said that the staff will be assessing the overall cost of attending college to ensure they are offering students help with getting housing, food, books and other basic needs.

In the current 2023-24 academic year, CSU tuition is $5,742. It will be $6,084 in 2024-25, $6,450 in 2025-26, $6,840 in 2026-27, $7,248 in 2027-28 and $7,682 in 2028-29.

The tuition would total $34,304 over five years, up about 20% from the total that students would pay if tuition remained the same as the current school year.

The approval of the tuition increase allows Mildred Garcia, currently the president of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, to avoid stepping into a fight with students the moment she takes the reins as the next chancellor of California State University. Garcia is familiar with the CSU system, having led Fullerton State and Cal State Dominguez Hills in the past.
Ex-president Donald Trump is supposed to face at least four trials while campaigning in 2024 (AFP/Getty)

In a typical presidential election year, candidates will spend the 11 months leading up to Election Day shaking hands and kissing babies at rallies as the primaries unfold.

But nothing is typical when it comes to Donald Trump.

Instead, the ex-president will be forced to juggle his campaign for the White House while also defending himself in federal and state courts in four different trials that are currently set to occur between January and May.

Kicking off with E Jean Carrolls damages trial on the same day as the Iowa Caucus to his federal classified documents trial one month before the GOP convention, Mr Trumps jam-packed schedule seemingly leaves little time for him to socialise outside of a courtroom.

How Mr Trump will manage his campaign while convincing voters hes innocent of it all  including alleged efforts to overturn previous elections in his favour  remains to be seen.

What does Donald Trumps calendar look like?

15 January  E Jean Carroll damages trial begins and Iowa caucus

The start of election season will kick off with yet another trial against writer E Jean Carroll. This time, the case will determine how much Mr Trump owes Ms Carroll in damages for making defamatory statements after she accused him of sexual abuse.

But while Mr Trumps legal team hashes it out in a New York City civil courtroom, voters in Iowa will be conducting the first-in-the-nation caucus the same day.

Not only does the Iowa caucus set the tone for the primaries, it can be an indicator as to who GOP voters are leaning toward. So far, Mr Trump is polling ahead of his rivals in Iowa though he has spent considerably less time in the state than others.

After the Iowa caucus, six other states will have their primaries or caucuses leading up to Mr Trumps first federal election trial.

E Jean Carroll (center) leaves a Manhattan courthouse after a jury found Donald Trump liable for sexually abusing her in a Manhattan department store in the 1990s on 9 May 2023 in New York City (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

4 March 2024  Federal election interference trial begins

In Washington DC, Mr Trumps first federal criminal trial for his alleged involvement in trying to overturn the 2020 election results and subsequent January 6 insurrection is set to begin.

The ex-president is charged with conspiracy to defraud the US, obstruction and conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding and conspiracy against rights for his alleged part in fuelling the attack on the Capitol with false claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election.

5 March  Super Tuesday

One day after Mr Trumps federal election interference trial kicks off is Super Tuesday  the day when most states hold their primaries.

The first Tuesday in March is a pivotal day for candidates as the results provide strong insight as to who Republican voters are leaning toward.

After Super Tuesday, 10 other states will have their primary or caucus until Mr Trumps criminal case in New York begins at the end of March.

25 March 2024  Hush-money payment trial begins

Earlier this year, Mr Trump became the first sitting or former president to be criminally indicted after being charged with 34 counts pertaining to falsifying business records in Manhattan criminal court.

The charges stem from an investigation by Manhattan district attorney Alvin Bragg that alleges Mr Trump tried to cover up hush money payments that he made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels in 2016 to silence her claims of an extramarital affair.

Though the case is set for March, it is more than likely going to be delayed until after the election so federal prosecutors as well as Mr Trump and his legal team can focus on the federal election interference trial.

Former President Donald Trump sits at the defense table with his legal team in a Manhattan court, Tuesday, April 4, 2023, in New York (AP)

20 May 2024  Federal classified documents trial begins

Ten other states will have conducted their primaries by the time Mr Trump is expected back in federal court, this time in Florida, to face 40 charges pertaining to his alleged mishandling of sensitive government documents.

Federal prosecutors indicted Mr Trump in June for allegedly unlawfully retaining top-secret documents that contained national security information at his Mar-a-Lago home after he left office.

The charges include violating a section of the Espionage Act for allegedly unlawfully retaining top-secret documents that contained national security information.

The trial is set to begin less than a month before the GOP convention in June.

15-18 June, GOP convention

After the remaining states conduct their primaries, the Republican Party will host its convention where it will announce an official nominee.

At the moment, Mr Trump is leading the polls but depending on how next year plays out, he may not become the partys nominee.

5 November  Election Day

On Tuesday, 5 November, US voters will head to the polls to cast their vote for president.

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump delivers a speech during the evening session on the fourth day of the Republican National Convention on July 21, 2016 (Getty Images)

How will this affect Donald Trump?

Glancing over Mr Trumps calendar, it may seem like his ability to successfully campaign is virtually impossible. But the ex-president has positioned himself to benefit from his trials.

In a weird way, none of this really bothers him. In fact, its a great asset for him politically, Kevin OBrien, a partner at Ford OBrien Landy LLP and former assistant US attorney, told The Independent.

Mr Trump has capitalised on his trials by painting himself as a victim  or martyr as Mr OBrien points out  to appeal to his supporters.

After each indictment, the ex-presidents campaign has called on supporters to express their outrage through their wallets. Splashed across his website, Truth Social posts and emails is Mr Trumps new slogan: Theyre not after me, theyre after you Im just standing in the way.

Supporters of Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump begin arriving at the Monument Arena on September 08, 2023 in Rapid City, South Dakota (Getty Images)

Even though some of the trials raise questions about Mr Trumps ability to lead the country successfully  like his classified documents case and the federal election interference case  his former job and loyal fan base reinforce his ability to be president.

He can always argue, and he will argue up until the day of the election, this is all unfair and he wasnt able to campaign effectively because of all these persecutions from Garland and Biden, Mr OBrien said.

But the likelihood that Mr Trump will actually have to juggle three criminal trials and a campaign at the same time is still unclear. Though the judges in each case have set start dates, they can be changed  and according to Mr OBrien, they likely will.

Mr OBrien said the three trials are not feasible because they require massive time and resources from both the prosecutors and Mr Trumps legal team.

Its terribly unfair to the defence, Mr OBrien said. It takes months and months to prepare for one of these large white-collar cases, he only has so much manpower at his disposal.

Already, Mr Trumps legal team has sought to delay the trials by using every legal motion possible.

Most likely, two of the trials against Mr Trump will need to be delayed until after the election. Prosecutors may choose to go forward with the strongest case against the ex-president which appears to be the federal election interference case.

Those issues are important for voters, its important to know how he intends to defend himself against what appears to be a pretty serious constitutional and criminal offence, Mr OBrien said.

Mr OBrien suggested the case could take two to three months to be completed which would mean the trial could conclude shortly before the GOP convention.

Even if its the only case Mr Trump is trailed in before the election, theres no telling how the outcome will change voters, and the Republican Party, perception of the former president.
A contraceptive access bill is headed to California Gov. Gavin Newsom s desk.

SB 541  also known as the Youth Health Equity and Safety Act  would require California public high school and charter schools to provide free condoms to all students starting in the 2024-2025 school year. The bill will also deny retailers from asking for proof of identification when purchasing condoms.

The bill was introduced by Sen. Caroline Menjivar, D-Burbank, as a way to prevent STIs and provide equitable access to contraceptives. It is a youth-led bill, according to a Essential Access Health news release on Wednesday.

If passed and signed by the governor, the bill would create a state-mandated local program. It would also require schools to provide sexual health information to students and make them aware of the availability of free contraceptives.

What do you want to know about life in Sacramento? Ask our service journalism team your top-of-mind questions in the module below or email servicejournalists@sacbee.com.
A landlords' association in Berkeley held a party to celebrate the end of an eviction moratorium.

Groups representing tenants in the city picketed the event.

According to local media, multiple fights broke out, with punches being thrown.

A cocktail party thrown by the Berkeley Property Owners Association (BPOA) to celebrate the end of the California city's eviction moratorium got out of hand, with a fistfight breaking out, according to the local newspaper SFGATE.

The landlords' group held the party, which was attended by about two dozen landlords, at the Freehouse in Berkeley on Wednesday evening, local media outlet Berkeleyside reported.

When the event was initially announced, it was criticized online by local activist groups.

Alfred Twu, a local Democratic Party delegate, said in an X post that it had to be "one of the most tasteless events I've ever heard of."

About 100 advocates from various groups, including the Berkeley Tenants Union and the Tenant and Neighborhood Council, turned up to picket the event, Berkeleyside reported.

The outlet said the protesters called landlords in attendance "parasites" and yelled chants.

Photos shared by the Tenant and Neighborhood Councils show that protesters also brought a cake iced with the message: "Hey landlords, get a real job!"

Tenant And Neighborhood Councils (@TANC_Bay) September 13, 2023

The picketers eventually entered the venue, circling around the patio where the landlords were convening, Berkeleyside reported.

According to the local media outlet, the protests lasted for a little over a minute before "multiple" fights broke out.

Videos reviewed by Berkeleyside and SFGATE, which Insider has not seen, reportedly showed a male attendee slapping a female picketer in the face and pushing her.

Another video seen by Berkeleyside showed a picketer knocking somebody's glasses off their head, as well as a party guest swinging a punch at a protester, the local media outlet said.

Protesters left the venue shortly after the fights broke out, according to Berkeleyside.

The BPOA did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment, but in a statement posted on social media it said: "We condemn the actions of hostile dissidents who disrupted a private gathering at a local restaurant to intimidate, harass, and physically assault our members who are law-abiding small business owners."

The association accused local police, who also did not respond to Insider's request for comment, of doing little to stop the violence.

The Tenant and Neighborhood Councils and the Berkeley Tenants Union said in a series of social media posts that their members were the ones who were physically assaulted. Neither group responded to Insider's requests for comment.

Berkeley Tenants Union #RepealCostaHawkins (@BerkeleyTenants) September 13, 2023

The eviction moratorium was introduced at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 and offered eviction protections to tenants across the city. It ended on August 31 this year.

Until May, it essentially banned all evictions except for those that involved a landlord going out of business or those that related to health and safety concerns.

However, in the past few months a transition period allowed evictions that involved a landlord wanting to move into an occupied unit or for tenants who hadn't paid rent for reasons unrelated to COVID-19.

Read the original article on Insider
As a string of last-minute deals surfaced this week before tonights end of the legislative session, one highly anticipated proposal was not among them  a plan to keep insurance companies in California even as the financial risk from wildfires grows.

A key deadline passed Monday night without a bill, dooming the effort for the year, despite involvement from legislative leaders, Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara and Gov. Gavin Newsom . Negotiators struggled to find a balance between loosening regulations on an insurance system that has been pushed to the brink and maintaining protections for homeowners who could face much higher premiums to stabilize the industry, a politically fraught prospect.

The Legislature wont return to Sacramento until January, leaving the issue unresolved for another fire season, though there will be hearings and potentially regulatory changes in the months ahead that could reframe the conversation.

Thats the progress weve made here, said Michael Soller, a spokesperson for Laras Department of Insurance. Fixing the home insurance market is now a priority across state government, he said, and there is urgency to get something done.

During an interview Tuesday night with Politico California, Newsom said a working group within his administration has focused on this waving red flag issue for months, in addition to the discussions with the Legislature.

So weve gamed out some different strategies, he said, declining to specify whether that might include calling a special legislative session or issuing an executive order this fall. We can do a lot of things. And Im very mindful. We can do all of that.

A spokesperson for the governor said he would have more to announce as soon as next week.

Wildfires fueled a looming crisis in Californias insurance market for years. After disastrous fire seasons in 2017 and 2018 wiped out decades of profit, insurance companies began dropping tens of thousands of customers by refusing to renew their policies.

But the situation reached a blaring emergency in May, when Californias largest home insurer, State Farm, announced that it would stop selling new policies altogether across the state. Another major provider, Allstate, soon acknowledged that it had done the same months earlier, while Farmers Insurance limited its offerings in July.

The industry says it has become too expensive to operate in California, blaming the high cost of rebuilding, growing risk from natural disasters and increasing expenses from buying reinsurance, or insurance for their losses, which state law prohibits them from passing onto customers.

The rippling consequences make it more difficult to build new homes, because of a lack of insurance options, as California tries to climb out of a severe housing shortage. It also imperils the states FAIR Plan, which offers limited insurance to homeowners who cannot secure a plan through a private insurer. The FAIR Plan is funded by a levy on insurance companies, so it faces insolvency as they leave the market and more customers are pushed into the program.

Negotiations for a legislative solution considered whether to allow companies to use forward-looking catastrophe models, rather than past losses, to set insurance rates, as they are already allowed to do for earthquakes; whether to let them factor reinsurance into their prices; how to set assessments for the FAIR Plan; how to speed up regulatory review of rate increase requests; and whether to require insurers to operate in communities with the biggest threat of wildfires.

We thought we had a sensible, viable solution that we could continue to massage, said Sen. Susan Rubio, a West Covina Democrat who leads the Senate Insurance Committee. We were ready to act this year.

With just a few weeks to maneuver at the jam-packed end of session, however, lawmakers and advocates say it was too late to reach an agreement that could earn widespread support.

Denni Ritter, a vice president of government relations for the American Property Casualty Insurance Association, one of several insurance industry organizations, said there was broad consensus around incorporating catastrophe modeling and reinsurance costs into rates, but a framework for FAIR Plan assessments was still unresolved. Many legislators also wanted to ensure the bill would offer as much benefit to consumers as it did to the industry, she added.

Everybody was still trying to wrap their heads around hard solutions, Ritter said. We just ran out of time.

An unexpected bomb dropped last Thursday when Sen. Bill Dodd, a Napa Democrat who was involved in the deliberations because his district has been slammed by wildfire damage, publicly declared a deal is dead, days before the deadline.

Dodd told CalMatters this week that a secret recording of a building industry lobbyist describing efforts to jam a bill through the Legislature, leaked by the advocacy group Consumer Watchdog, scared many of his colleagues, who worried that the plan would be a giveaway to insurance companies.

Even without that, this is a very complicated issue, Dodd said. It was not helpful.

Jamie Court, the president of Consumer Watchdog who recorded the lobbyist on a flight, said consumer groups like his did not have a seat at the table, which delegitimized the negotiations for some lawmakers. He encouraged the Legislature to consider homeowner-oriented solutions  such as giving people money to harden their homes against wildfires and then guaranteeing their access to insurance if they do  in a more transparent process next year.

I think the secrecy was the main thing. No one saw it, even people in the building. And thats no way to make policy, Court said. You cant jam it down peoples throats.

Assembly counterparts tried to keep the negotiations alive. The day after Dodds declaration, Assemblymembers Lisa Calderon, a Whittier Democrat who leads the Assembly Insurance Committee, and Jim Wood, a Healdsburg Democrat whose district has been battered by wildfires, jointly issued a statement signaling that discussions would continue into the final weekend before the end of session.

But no proposal ultimately surfaced by Monday night. Calderon and Wood both declined multiple interview requests.

Our Caucus has been steadfast in putting consumers first, and Im grateful for their dedication, Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, a Hollister Democrat, said in a statement Tuesday announcing a series of public hearings this fall on the insurance system. Our mission has always been to ensure homeowners and businesses across California can access and retain comprehensive insurance coverage.

The Senate has no similar plans, though Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins, a San Diego Democrat, said in a statement, We know we have to act to address insurance availability before we experience the market failure weve seen in Florida and elsewhere.

The focus now shifts to Lara, who as insurance commissioner has broad regulatory authority to reshape Californias home insurance market without the Legislature.

During his reelection campaign last year, critics accused Lara of not doing enough to protect homeowners in wildfire areas. His office began enforcing a new regulation in October requiring rate discounts for homeowners and businesses that adopt wildfire safety measures.

Ritter of the American Property Casualty Insurance Association said a solution could largely be handled through regulations. Even if Lara acts quickly, however, it will take months more for companies to recalculate rates and get them approved by the insurance department, a process that the industry complains takes far too long.

This is not an overnight fix, Ritter said. That was part of the heartache with the negotiations  there are no overnight fixes.

Soller, the spokesperson for Lara, said a workshop at the end of September to explore catastrophe modeling  how it would affect the availability of insurance and future rates, how models would take into consideration safety investments  could inform a rulemaking process. The department is also working to modernize the FAIR Plan, he said, and to streamline reviews of rate filings.

The causes are far more complex than often gets acknowledged, Soller said. The solutions are far more complex.

The Legislature may still want to have its say as well. Dodd said lawmakers will keep working over the recess and could introduce a proposal next year, based on what Lara does this fall, that is ready to move right away.

Once the insurance commissioner does what hes going to do, that frames the whole issue and allows all sides to opine, Dodd said.

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Insurance in California: Lawmakers failed to fix market. What comes next?
California legislators passed a bill Wednesday that expands the amount of sick time that employers around the state are required to offer their personnel.

If Gov. Gavin Newsom signs Senate Bill 616 into law, workers would get at least five sick days a year starting Jan. 1, up from the three days now on the books.

State Sen. Lena Gonzalez, D-Long Beach, authored the bill because she was concerned workers would not have enough sick days if they or a child fell ill with COVID-19. It can take time for that respiratory virus to clear the system and for those who have it to test negative, Gonzalez said, but federal and state laws that offered job protections for those with the illness during the pandemic are no longer in effect.

Families no longer have the temporary protections afforded by COVID-19 supplemental paid sick leave, which ended last year, Gonzalez said. This back-to-school season, lets commit to ensuring that parents can take the sick leave they need to take care of their health and the health of their children.

Wellness advocate Kim Robinson said the need for increased time extends to families in many different situations. Even though Robinsons employer allows her to take 56 hours of sick time (about seven days) annually, she said, that time quickly evaporates when youre a caregiver sandwiched between two generations.

I have exhausted all of my sick time because of the need to accompany my mother with doctors appointments, also accompanying my son with doctors appointments, and not feeling well myself, Robinson said. Ive exhausted all of the days that were allotted to me. Once you exhaust your sick time at my organization, then you then have to use your personal time off.

She said she has a trip planned to Africa later this year  time for her to relax, have some fun and recharge  and shes hoping she will be able to hold onto enough vacation time to go. A Lathrop resident, Robinson manages two health clinics in Stockton, and although one of them recently went through two audits and passed with flying colors, she said, she still fears losing her job because shes needed so much time off.

Many workers face obligations like these, Robinson said, and three days just arent enough to handle it all.

Proponents of SB 616 have told legislators that this is a pocketbook issue for many workers. Missing 3 days of work without pay equates to losing an entire familys monthly grocery budget, they said, so those additional days could mean the difference between putting food on the table and kids going hungry.

In California, seven cities already mandate that employers provide nine to 10 days of sick time, according to researchers at the California Budget and Policy Center. They are San Diego, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley and Emeryville.

How does California sick leave compare to other states?

Fourteen other states and the District of Columbia also mandate more sick days than California does. Six require more days for all employers or soon will:

 Washington: One hour for every 40 hours worked

 New Mexico: 64 hours

 Colorado and Minnesota: 48 hours; the Minnesota law will go into effect in January

 Vermont and New Jersey: 40 hours

Six states require employers to offer 40 hours of sick time once their workforce has met or exceeded a specific number: 10 workers in Oregon, 11 in Massachusetts, 15 in Maryland, 18 in Rhode Island, and 50 in Connecticut and Michigan.

The number of sick days varies in two states and D.C., depending on employee headcount:

 New York mandates 40 hours of sick time for businesses with fewer than 100 workers and 56 hours for businesses with 100-plus employees.

 Arizona businesses with fewer than 15 workers must offer 24 hours of sick time, but those with 15 or more have to offer 40 hours.

 In Washington, D.C., companies with 24 or fewer employees must provide three days, those with 25 to99 must offer five days, and those with 100-plus workers have to give seven days.

If the governor approves SB 616, California would essentially catch up with 10 of the 14 other states offering sick benefits.
California would become the first state to provide monthly cash assistance to undocumented seniors, pending a signature from Gov. Gavin Newsom .

AB 1536, authored by Assemblyman Juan Carrillo , D-Palmdale, passed the Senate on a 32-2 vote on Wednesday. Hours later the Assembly sent it to Newsom after a final 53-4 vote. The governor has not stated a position on the bill.

If signed by Newsom, undocumented individuals who are blind, disabled or older than 65 would be eligible for $1,100 to $1,900 per month through the state-funded Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI).The bill would eliminate the requirement to apply to the Social Security Administration, which has historically been the barrier for people without eligible immigration status.

Roughly 17,000 undocumented seniors reside in California, according to The Center For Migration Studies.

This bill is about ensuring that our state remains a place for every individual regardless of their background or immigration status so they can access the support and assistance to live a dignified life, Carrillo said. It is a testament to our shared commitment to compassion and inclusivity.

Proponents of the legislation note undocumented immigrants are unable to benefit from social programs, despite paying state and local taxes. Undocumented immigrants paid an estimated $3.7 billion in state and local taxes in 2019, according to USCs California Immigrant Data Portal.

These are the very benefits that they have often paid into over the course of their work in our state, said Sen. Maria Elena Durazo, D-Los Angeles, who presented the bill in the Senate on Wednesday.

The proposed expansion will cost an estimated $180 million per year, according to the California Department of Social Services.

The push for cash assistance follows milestones in the last decade for undocumented people such as drivers licenses, protections from deportation, tax breaks, COVID-19 pandemic relief, Medi-Cal access and food assistance.
Terrance Stewart, right, with his wife, Tiffane, and children Taylor and Terrance the 3rd in 2020. He had faced constant rejections from landlords in Riverside because of its strict crime-free housing ordinance. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times)

State lawmakers approved legislation late Wednesday that would bar mandatory evictions or exclusion for California tenants and their families based on criminal histories or brushes with law enforcement.

Assembly Bill 1418 combats local policies known as crime-free housing that can require landlords to evict tenants for arrests or prohibit landlords from renting to those with prior convictions. The bill would make many of these laws unenforceable, ending the practice in scores of communities.

The bills author, Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Hawthorne), said that its passage advances the state's racial justice efforts by stopping communities from using crime-free housing laws to exclude or push out Black and Latino renters.

"We want to make sure we keep Black and brown people in their homes and that [crime-free housing rules] are not used as an excuse for gentrification," McKinnor said.

The bill does not affect landlords' ability to initiate nuisance-related evictions or screen tenants based on criminal histories of their own accord.

AB 1418 was inspired by a 2020 Times investigation that highlighted the proliferation of crime-free housing policies across California, especially in communities with growing Black and Latino populations. Times reporting found that local governments have approved the policies even when crime rates were stable or falling, while the number of Black or Latino residents was increasing. The Times determined that in some areas crime-free housing rules were enforced against Black, Latino and other tenants of color in far greater numbers than their share of the population.

Read more: Black and Latino renters face eviction, exclusion amid police crackdowns in California

Terrance Stewart told The Times in 2020 that he faced constant rejections from landlords in Riverside, which had a strict crime-free housing ordinance, due to a prior cocaine dealing conviction. Stewart, who is Black, had been accepted to UC Riverside and had to resort to living with his wife and then-3-month-old daughter in another city a 90-minute bus ride from campus. Stewart's problems finding housing in Riverside continued even after he graduated with a masters degree five years later  nearly a decade after his drug conviction.

Stewart, now 42 with three children, testified in favor of AB 1418 during a legislative committee hearing earlier this year. With the bill's passage, he's planning to look for apartments in Riverside in neighborhoods with good schools.

"Its just awesome that your pain becomes your ministry," said Stewart, who works for Alliance for Safety and Justice, a national criminal justice reform group. "I've been so stressed out behind these ordinances."

His involvement in the repeal of crime-free housing laws, he said, "makes me feel like life, it has a purpose."

AB 1418 passed both houses of the Legislature without a dissenting vote in a committee or on the Assembly or Senate floors.

Gov. Gavin Newsom has until Oct. 14 to sign or veto the bill or allow it to become law without his signature.

Newsoms position is unknown. His office previously opposed the legislation, citing potential costs for the state to reimburse localities for having to repeal their ordinances. But McKinnor has since removed a requirement for cities to strike their policies from their municipal codes. Instead, they could remain on the citys books but no longer be enforced.

Newsom typically does not comment on pending legislation and his office did not respond to a request for his views on AB 1418.

Crime-free housing programs vary widely in California. Less severe ones include police training for landlords on criminal background checks and anticrime lease provisions. But some go much further.

A now-repealed crime-free housing law in Hesperia, a high desert city, required landlords to evict tenants and their families based on police suspicions they were involved in criminal activity on or near their properties. Before its passage, a council member described the crime-free housing law's purpose as to correct a demographical problem with people that are committing crimes in this community.

Last year, the U.S. Department of Justice settled a lawsuit against the city and the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department that claimed Hesperia's policy violated civil rights laws after a federal investigation found that Black renters were almost four times more likely, and Latino renters were 29% more likely, to be evicted under the program than white renters.

Read more: Accused of illegally evicting Black and Latino renters, SoCal city, sheriff to pay $1 million

AB 1418 is the states highest-profile response to unwind crime-free housing policies, a cause that has been gaining momentum.

In the spring, Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta issued formal guidance to all municipalities to ensure any crime-free housing laws complied with broader civil rights and fair housing regulations.

Over the summer, Californias Reparations Task Force called for repealing such laws in its recommendations for remedying the legacies of slavery and more modern government-sanctioned policies that discriminated against Black residents.

And this month, Riverside and San Bernardino, the two largest cities in the Inland Empire, which has been a hotbed of crime-free housing rules, voted to repeal their ordinances. San Bernardino did so as part of a legal settlement to a case challenging its program filed by legal aid groups  and joined by Bonta's and Newsoms offices  on behalf of low-income residents in the city.

How many crime-free housing rules AB 1418 would bar isnt clear, but supporters believe the number is substantial.

The 2020 Times investigation found that 147 local governments in California  more than a quarter of the total  had enacted a crime-free housing law or advertised such training for landlords.

AB 1418 bans the most stringent crime-free housing policies that compel landlords to use criminal background checks to screen tenants, evict them for alleged criminal behavior without a felony conviction or evict an entire household when one member is convicted of a felony, among other prohibitions. It would allow voluntary training for landlords by city and police to continue.

A survey of roughly half the local governments in the state completed for the nonprofit National Housing Law Project found that the legislation would wipe away crime-free housing rules in 130 jurisdictions.

"This bill was intended to eliminate the common provisions that lend themselves most to displacement," said Marcos Segura, a staff attorney at the National Housing Law Project, one of the principal backers of the bill.

Read more: Mandatory evictions for arrested tenants would be banned under new state bill

AB 1418 has a wide-ranging list of supporters. Besides advocates for low-income tenants and legal aid organizations, the California Apartment Assn., the state's largest landlord group, is behind the measure. The apartment association contends that cities shouldn't have policies that require landlords to evict tenants.

"This is an inappropriate and objectionable mandate on the part of local governments," association Vice President Debra Carlton said of crime-free housing laws in a letter of support for the bill.

Historically, crime-free housing policies have attracted strong backing from police and prosecutors on public safety grounds. But there are no listed opponents to the legislation.

Should Newsom sign AB 1418, it would take effect Jan. 1.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
For California lobbyists, the final days of the legislative session are like a pressure cooker where the steam inside has been building for months.

The advocates paid to influence state lawmakers pack the Capitol rotunda in hopes of snagging some last-minute face time with Assembly members and senators as they cast their final votes for the year.

During these last days, the ornate second-floor balcony  normally populated by tourists, school groups and quinceanera portrait-takers  is overrun by people in suits huddled around large screens watching legislators conduct the states business.

They jam the wooden gates on the ends of the hallways leading to the Assembly and Senate chambers and hand business cards to the Sergeants-at-Arms standing guard, hoping they can convince lawmakers to come talk to them before crucial votes.

Assemblywoman Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, D-Winters, talks with a lobbyist during the final week of session on Tuesday.

One of the hardest parts of advocacy is this process, because its so high-pressure, said Kristina Bas Hamilton, a lobbyist for KBH Advocacy, which works for advocacy and labor organizations. Bas Hamilton on was representing United Domestic Workers and supporting Senate Bill 616, which would increase the number of paid sick days for workers.

Their conversations with legislators and with each other echo through the Capitol along with the clanging of the bell that marks each Assembly vote.

Lobbyists representing a wide variety of interests  from city governments to criminal justice reformers to labor unions  have likely spent months building relationships with lawmakers and their staff. This is simply an opportunity to make their last pitches, Bas Hamilton said.

With certain very high-level, controversial bills, a lot of members dont make up their mind until the very end, Bas Hamilton said. And so you have to use every tool as a lobbyist, as an advocate that you have. And if theyre still not 100%, there is this opportunity.

A lobbyist for Campbell Strategy/Advocacy turns in a card Tuesday for Assemblyman David Alvarez that was returned because it had a message of support for Senate Bill 749. The rules prohibit sending messages on cards in support of a bill.

Lobbying logistics

This marks the second year lobbyists have used the rotunda for conversations with lawmakers. Before the COVID-19 pandemic and the Capitol construction project, they were relegated to a hallway in the now-demolished annex, said Chris Micheli of lobbying firm Aprea & Micheli, which represents businesses, trade associations and public agencies.

Both Micheli and Bas Hamilton called that setup more hot and sweaty and crowded than the high-ceilinged rotunda they began using last year, once in-person activity at the Capitol resumed.

A list posted outside the California Assembly chambers at the state Capitol on Tuesday indicates which members do not accept business cards from lobbyists.

Lobbyists are not allowed on the Assembly and Senate floors. The Assembly does not permit lobbyists to text members on the floor, Micheli said, although they can do so in the Senate.

This means the best way to get lawmakers attention is to write them notes on business cards asking for conversations and have sergeants deliver them to the floor. Lobbyists are not allowed to ask legislators to vote a certain way. They can write notes only to request discussions.

Clients expect lobbyists to be present when their bills are up for votes, Micheli said.

Maybe Im old school, he said. But my preference is is to look somebody in the face and say, My client supports or opposes AB 123. What are you thinking? Have you taken a position on it?

State Sen. Melissa Hurtado, D-Sanger, takes a card from a lobbyist on Tuesday.

Last-minute pitches

If lawmakers talk to lobbyists between votes, they frequently do so at the gates in front of the hallways to both chambers. During their brief meetings, they try to provide information on bill amendments, answer questions and push back against the other sides arguments.

Thats the hard part of it, Bas Hamilton said. Breaking through and getting attention in a space in which everyones clamoring for it.

When asked whether the conversations are successful in changing legislators minds, lobbyists were mixed in their opinions.

Assemblywoman Sabrina Cervantes, D-Riverside, speaks to a lobbyist on Tuesday. Cervantes and a group of other of Assembly members do not accept business cards from lobbyists.

Bas Hamilton said lawmakers have told her the last-minute information she gave them made a difference in how they voted.

It can it can feel hopeless, she said. It can feel fruitless, because you dont know, right? And the thing is, you have to respect that theyre human beings. And theres only so much information a person can take in. At some point, you shut it all down. But then you hear that and youre like, OK, I know I did something.

Natasha Minsker, who lobbies for Smart Justice California and the Prosecutors Alliance of California, said its important to be present at the Capitol to try and sway lawmakers if there are last-minute surprises.

I dont feel like I have any choice, she said. I mean, the oppositions here working against all my bills. I have to be here, even if its just to know who theyre talking to.

Lobbyist Natasha Minsker gives a card to Assistant Sergeant Tony Montalvo for Assemblywoman Eloise Gomez Reyes, D-Colton, on Tuesday. Some legislators put themselves on a list that indicates they do not accept lobbyist cards.

Lawmakers and lobbyists

At the gate to the Assembly hallway, sergeants keep a list of lawmakers who do not accept lobbyist cards.

Assemblyman Marc Berman, D-Menlo Park, is among those legislators because he (finds) it to be distracting and shouldnt be where my focus is.

Im skeptical of very, very last-minute information, he said. If youve been working on something all year, and know all the ins and outs of this policy, why is it that something comes up at the last minute? And at the last minute when I dont have the time to be able to check the veracity.

Bermans desk mate, Assemblyman Jesse Gabriel, D-Woodland Hills, said he tends to ignore cards and has never received them particularly well, even though he understands why lobbyists use the tactic.

Assemblywoman Tasha Boerner, D-Encinitas, talks with a lobbyist at the state Capitol on Tuesday during the final week of the legislative session.

Ive always found it much more productive to sit down with someone in an office and talk in an organized fashion, Gabriel said.

Assemblywoman Tasha Boerner, D-Encinitas, said she appreciates conversations with lobbyists because she (likes) to be fully informed.

Boerner said she also thinks its respectful to let lobbyists know where she stands on things. She has even used the conversations to dispel misinformation about her own bills.

I can read the bill text, I can read the analysis, I can hear what my staffs recommendations are, Boerner said. But sometimes there are specific things in my district, that maybe that information didnt come up beforehand, and I think its important to get that information.
California no longer bans state-funded travel to more than half of the country.

Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday signed Senate Bill 447 into law, ending the seven-year-old travel ban that prohibited state money from being used to pay for travel to states with anti-LGBTQ laws.

The ban caused difficulties for many state agencies, researchers, student athletes and others who rely on state money. Even supporters of the ban acknowledged that the law was not having the deterrent effect it was intended to  with more than 500 anti-LGBTQ bills introduced in state legislatures across the country so far this year.

SB 447 replaces the ban with a state-funded, non-partisan advertising campaign in anti-LGBTQ states, which will spread a message of inclusivity, according to its supporters.

In the face of a rising tide of anti-LGBTQ+ hate, this measure helps Californias message of acceptance, equality and hope reach the places where it is most needed, Newsom said.

SB 447 was the brainchild of Senate President pro Tem Toni Atkins , D-San Diego. Atkins, who is a lesbian, has described growing up feeling isolated and alone. She has said that SB 447 is intended to help others not have to go through that experience.

Theres so much hate, so much hurt, so much harm being inflicted on people who are just trying to live their authentic lives, Atkins said in a statement. ...We will be the bridge to a more understanding and compassionate nation.

The bill passed on largely bipartisan lines, with Democrats largely voting in favor of it and Republicans largely voting against.

Assemblyman Evan Low, D-Campbell, who authored the original 2016 law, did not vote on the bill.
Two California Republicans who represent San Joaquin Valley congressional districts with Democratic majorities say they support the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden .

I think that theres been enough preliminary work here to absolutely justify going forward with an inquiry, Rep. John Duarte, R-Modesto, told Punchbowl. So I think its a great middle step. Lets just get all the facts out and then decide what goes forward from there.

Impeachment is one of the highest powers available to Congress, and not something I take lightly, Rep. David Valadao, R-Hanford, told The Bee Thursday.

Duarte and Valadaos districts, newly drawn in 2022 based on census data, would have voted for Biden by more than a 10% margin in 2020.

Valadao was one of 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach former President Donald Trump over his role in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. He is one of two still in Congress.

I appreciate that Speaker McCarthy is prioritizing the need for an investigation, facts, and evidence, Valadao said. This inquiry makes all investigative tools available to Congress so we can determine the facts and get answers on some of the allegations against President Biden and his family.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy launched the inquiry into Biden Tuesday over his sons business dealings. Impeachment experts say its the weakest presidential inquiry in history.

Bidens Republican pursuers have got exactly zero, zip, bupkis, on any matter that might be impeachable, Frank Bowman, author of High Crimes and Misdemeanors: A History of Impeachment for the Age of Trump, told TIME.

The House can impeach a president or other federal officials for committing treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors. Conviction by the Senate can remove them from office.

Launching a presidential impeachment inquiry was rare until the 1970s. A growing partisan divide, heightened scrutiny and awareness of presidents actions, and a desire to limit executive powers have all led Congress to threaten impeachment more often.

The House has voted to impeach former Presidents Andrew Johnson in 1868, Bill Clinton in 1998 and Trump in 2019 and 2021. Richard Nixon resigned in 1974 to avoid impeachment.

Hard-right Republicans had been calling on McCarthy, R-Bakersfield, to open an inquiry into whether Biden has benefited from the foreign business dealings of his son. Hunter Biden has been under investigation by the U.S. Justice Department and was indicted Thursday on federal firearms charges.

GOP leaders claim that Biden lied about his knowledge of Hunters work.

Despite these serious allegations, it appears that the presidents family has been offered special treatment by Bidens own administration, McCarthy said Tuesday, treatment he would not otherwise have received if he were not related to the president.

Duarte and Valadao both had close elections in 2022, with Duarte besting former Assemblyman Adam Gray in Californias 13th Congressional District by less than a point. Valadao defeated former Assemblyman Rudy Salas in the 22nd by three points.

Both will have rematches with those opponents in 2024. Analysts say Duartes race is a toss-up. Some forecasters give Valadao a slight edge over Democratic opponents.

Americans deserve transparency and accountability from their elected officials, Valadao said of the impeachment inquiry, and I will be closely monitoring the facts that come out of this investigation.
(KTLA)  A California school district has agreed to pay $27 million to the family of an eighth-grader who died in a bullying incident four years ago

The lawyers representing the family of Diego Stolz announced the settlement Wednesday.

Diego Stolz was 13 years old when he died. A graphic video of the attack that took his life showed the moment two teenage boys attacked him at Moreno Valley Unified School Districts Landmark Middle School.

In the video, Stolz can be seen with his arms at his side as another student gets directly in his face before smacking him. Stolz, apparently stunned, takes a step back before a second student off-screen sucker punches him in the back of the head. Stolz goes down immediately and hits his head against a pillar.

Stolz suffered a traumatic brain injury and died nine days later.

DIEGO STOLZ ATTACK

Stolzs family sued the Moreno Valley Unified School District, alleging he was a regular victim of bullying and the school was aware of the ongoing harassment he was facing.

Dave Ring, one of the familys attorneys, called Diegos death preventable had the school taken the concerns more seriously and prioritized an anti-bullying policy.

Watch: Boebert escorted out of Beetlejuice performance at Denver theater

In the days leading up to the attack that would end his life, the harassment of Diego intensified, leading to a meeting with the 13-year-old and a family member.

The familys attorneys say school administrators promised family members and Diego that the boys who were harassing and bullying him would be suspended and that the school was taking care of the problem.

But when Diego arrived at school days later, he found that the boys were not suspended and the bullying began again, reaching new highs as they physically assaulted him for what would be the final time.

The settlement comes after a 2020 California law was enacted that asserted that legal guardians were allowed to bring forth a civil suit in the wrongful or negligent death of a minor. Diegos birth parents had died when he was young and he was being raised by his aunt and uncle.

The bill was inspired by Diegos death and allowed for his legal guardians to pursue civil claims against the school district.

The settlement comes nearly four years to the day after the attack that ultimately took his life. The $27 million payout is the largest bullying settlement in the nations history, the familys attorneys say.

The family will forever be heartbroken by the death of Diego but they hope this case brings about change in school districts across the country, Ring said when announcing that terms of a settlement had been reached.

Family tied up, held at gunpoint during alleged home robbery in California

Neil Gehlawat, another attorney representing Diegos family, said he hopes this settlement will be the first step toward real change toward widespread anti-bullying measures.

The two teens found responsible for Diegos death spent 47 days in juvenile custody after entering what amount to guilty pleas for involuntary manslaughter and assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury.

A judge declined to sentence them to additional time, but the boys, who were 14 at the time, were ordered to attend anger management, according to the Associated Press.

In the aftermath of Diegos death, Landmark Middle Schools principal at the time and two assistant principals were removed from their positions.

Diegos family announced his organs would be donated.

The Moreno Valley Unified School District did not comment on the settlement and told the AP it did not intend to do so.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com.
As another academic year gets underway, more school boards across the country are debating banning LGBTQ Pride flags, with civil rights advocates arguing the flags are constitutionally protected expression.

This week, two California school boards voted to ban certain flags, including the LGBTQ Pride flag, amid concerns from parents who supported and opposed the bans.

In recent years, school districts across the country have presented flag restrictions as a means to avoid favoring any one group over another. Some measures limit flag displays to government and military flags  effectively banning the Pride flag, LGBTQ advocates say.

"It has become clear with a little analysis that their real focus is to ban the rainbow flag," said Jay Blotcher, co-founder of New York City's Gilbert Baker Foundation, an LGBTQ advocacy group named for the Pride flag's creator. "They're willing to put a ban on other flags in their zeal to ban the rainbow flag," Blotcher told USA TODAY.

For months, LGBTQ groups have warned banning gay Pride symbols in schools are an extension of curriculum bans restricting mentions of LGBTQ topics. In many states, LGBTQ curriculum bans were passed alongside bans on critical race theory, making the restrictions part of a larger push against inclusion and diversity, advocates say.

"What unites the efforts to further marginalize trans youth, ban books and ban Pride flags is a desire to make the world less safe for queer youth," said Gillian Branstetter, a spokesperson for the American Civil Liberties Union LGBTQ and HIV Project. "The message that flags send is that anywhere it is flown you will be safe and respected and loved for who you are."

The American Civil Liberties Union teamed up with the Gilbert Baker Foundation this year to create legal resources for communities across the country to fight back against proposals to ban the Pride flag.

Who is banning Pride flags?

In recent years, the Gilbert Baker Foundation has tracked dozens of instances of municipal governments across the country banning certain flags on government property, and school boards passing restrictions banning Pride flags in schools.

Most recently, municipalities in California and across the country voted in May and June against flying Pride flags, around the time flags would have been displayed in government buildings for Pride Month, Blotcher said.

California school boards ban Pride flags

This week, two California school boards passed flag bans after voting along ideological lines, local outlets reported.

In California's Alameda County, the Sunol school board voted 2-1 Tuesday to ban Pride flags at the town's only elementary school, the Mercury News reported. Sunol is part of northern California's Bay Area and has a population of under 1,000.

Also on Tuesday, the Temecula school board in southern California voted 3-2 to ban all flags except the U.S. flag and the state flag, with limited exceptions, the Press-Enterprise in Riverside reported.

In both cases, parents are considering recall attempts against conservative board members who voted in favor of the flag bans, the outlets reported.

Young LGBTQ people need all the affirmation they can get, including at school, Blotcher said, adding that rates of suicide for queer youth are higher than for other groups.

"Being LGBTQ in this country right now is getting tougher. Now kids are under fire," Blotcher said. "You're seeing a trend of LGBTQ kids who are being suppressed resorting to self harm, and banning the flag is another step towards harming these kids and putting them at risk," he said.

Are Pride flags constitutionally protected?

Municipal policies banning only the Pride flag are considered "viewpoint discrimination" under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, according to the ACLU.

In schools, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled First Amendment protections extend to "teachers and students," neither of whom "shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate," the ACLU says in its Pride flag legal resource.

But until a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of Pride flag bans reaches the Supreme Court, municipalities and school boards can keep passing blanket flag bans, Blotcher said.

Contributing: Marc Ramirez

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: LGBTQ Pride flags banned by California school districts
Editors Note: This article has been edited to include clarification on the vote.

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  The California State University board of trustees has formally passed a 6% increase in tuition per year for five years, beginning in fall 2024.

The motion was voted on at a board meeting in Long Beach on Wednesday, Sept. 13. The vote passed 15-5.

The CSU announced the tuition hike in a press release shortly after the boards vote.

The California State University (CSU) Board of Trustees has approved a multi-year tuition proposal that will increase tuition by six percent per year for five years, and help to bring stability to the universitys budget. Under the approved proposal, full-time undergraduate tuition will increase by $342 per student beginning in the 2024-25 academic year. The tuition proposal will sunset at the end of 2028-29. The California State University

This tuition increase proposal came after California Gov. Gavin Newsoms multi-year compact, which according to the CSU, ensures a 5% increase to the universitys general fund appropriation for five years. But the university said more funding is still needed for the CSU to continue advancing its educational mission and to do so through the 21st century.

Many trustees at the meeting voiced support for the increase, including Trustee Jean Picker Firstenberg.

We cannot survive unless we take action. No one wants to do this, said Trustee Firstenberg in the meeting.

RELATED: Cal State Bakersfield students push back against CSU tuition increase proposal

The CSU states on its website that the tuition increase will help students in the following ways:

Provide the necessary resources for each university to further the CSUs core values of equitable excellence and access.

Provide tuition stability and predictability for students and parents.

Enhance financial aid and affordability for those students with the greatest financial need.

However, many others, including Lieutenant Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, opposed the increase.

A tuition increase will drastically affect the 184,000 CSU students who dont receive full tuition coverage. This is unacceptable, Kounalakis wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Wednesday. I stand firm in my opposition towards a tuition increase and will continue to do everything I can to make a CSU accessible and affordable for ALL.

According to data from CSU, the current tuition rate for an undergraduate student taking six units or more is over $5,700 per academic year. Now that the proposal is approved, that same rate will rise to over $7,600 by the 2028-2029 school year.

For more information on the tuition increase proposal, visit the CSU website.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
California has joined the growing effort to remove former President Donald Trump from the states election ballot next year. His supporters say the movement will be another boost to his rage-against-the-machine campaign.

A lawsuit filed this week by Venice Beach civil rights attorney Stephen Yagman, contends that a section of the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution disqualifies Trump from holding office because of his role in the Jan. 6, 2021 U.S. Capitol insurrection.

Court challenges have been filed on behalf of voters in Colorado and MInnesota, states that will also hold primaries on March 5.

Trump currently holds a huge lead among Republicans in statewide polls.

The amendment, ratified three years after the end of the Civil War, bars from office anyone who took an oath to support the Constitution, and then engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the Constitution or provided aid or comfort to the enemies.

Such people cannot serve as a senator, representative or presidential elector or hold any office unless a supermajority of Congress agrees. The provision was used after the Civil War to bar some Confederate officials from taking office in the U.S. government, but has rarely been invoked since.

Yagman said the amendment was approved at a time when people in Congress were very concerned about people who took the oath of officeand initiated a war. They didnt want that to happen again.

While the amendment does not specifically mention the president, Yagman argued, its aimed at preventing exactly what happened when protesters stormed the Capitol on January 6, 2021. Trump, he said, was trying to prevent the transfer of power.

A number of conservative and liberal legal scholars, ranging from the Federalist Society to Harvard Law School, have agreed that the disqualification section would apply to Trump.

Gerard Magliocca, a law professor at Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, cited an 1869 case that found a North Carolina sheriff who held the office in the Confederate government was disqualified from holding the same office after the Civil War. The North Carolina court ruled someone was engaged in insurrection if he contributed something useful or necessary to the insurrection.

Theres no question that this applies to Trump, argued Ron Fein, legal director of Free Speech for People, which has filed a lawsuit in Minnesota to bar him from the ballot.

This is a critical part of the Constitution to protect us against people just like Trump, Fein said.

The Trump campaign did not respond to a request for comment.

The lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles on behalf of a California voter named A.W. Clark. Yagman would not provide any information about Clark. It was filed against Secretary of State Shirley Weber, whos in charge of state elections. Her office said it has not been served yet.

Did Trump cause a riot?

Skeptics counter that Trumps speech at a rally before the insurrection, while fiery and aggressive, did not directly urge supporters to storm the Capitol.

I think its an interesting legal theory but I think its a dead end street, said Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, a former member of the state Supreme Court and Attorney General.

Giving a speech at a rally whether you like it or not is not insurrection, said Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-South Carolina, a prominent Trump supporter. He added that the legal gambit is will only work to Trumps benefit.

I think it makes him stronger politically. People feel like theyre going too far, he said. All the people usually saying this are from blue states trying to up their profile, but I think its backfiring with independents.

Yagman dismissed such reasoning, calling Graham a buffoon.

Trumps support among Republicans increased this summer as criminal indictments were handed down in Georgia and Washington, D.C.

But losing a spot on the California ballot would be a setback. The state Republican Party changed delegate selection rules earlier this year so that a candidate winning a majority in the primary would get all 169 Republican convention votes  a major step toward the 1,234 needed for nomination.

Trump stays way ahead

Trump is far ahead of his rivals in the state. A Berkeley-IGS poll last month found him the choice of 55% of the states Republicans. Next was Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis at 16%.

In the latest Quinnipiac University Poll, taken Sept. 7 to 11, Trumps support jumped from 57% last month among Republican and Republican-leaning voters to 62%.

A national CNN/SSRS poll, conducted August 25 to 31, found Trump the choice of 52% of Republicans and GOP-leaning independents, up from 47% in June.

In California, his support in the Berkeley-IGS poll has also grown, from 29% in February to 44% in May to 55% last month.

Trump has been indicted in four cases, including two last month. One involves his efforts to stay in office after his term ended, and the other deals with his attempts to overturn his election loss in Georgia

The more his rivals go after him, the stronger he gets.

These efforts do play into Trumps endless arguments that the system is out to get him, although those arguments also ignore Trumps very poor if not necessarily illegal behavior in the aftermath of the 2020 election, said Kyle Kondik, managing editor of Sabatos Crystal Ball, a nonpartisan political analysis firm.

He doubted Trump would wind up being barred from any ballots.

I do think it is hard to argue that Trump should be barred because of participating in an insurrection when there has not been a court ruling against him to that effect, Kondik said.
California voters will be asked whether to lower the vote threshold on new taxes and bonds that increase funding for affordable housing and public infrastructure projects. (Paul Kuroda / For The Times)

In 2022, nearly 60% of voters in Berkeley approved a $650-million bond to build affordable housing and repair streets, sidewalks and other outdated infrastructure.

The same year, more than 61% of voters in Lompoc, Calif., backed a 1% special transient occupancy tax increase for hotels, motels, short-term rentals and other lodgings to pay for police and fire services.

And in Sonoma County, a 2020 sales tax that would have raised an estimated $51 million each year for wildfire prevention earned close to 65% of the vote.

All three ballot measures still failed.

That's because California requires approval from two-thirds of voters on certain special tax increases and bond measures, a threshold set by the 1879 state Constitution and through ballot measures such as Proposition 13 in 1978.

Democrats in the state Legislature are trying to overhaul that requirement. They introduced Assembly Constitutional Amendment 1 this year to ask voters whether the threshold to approve new special taxes and bonds for affordable housing and public infrastructure projects should be lowered to 55%.

The constitutional amendment required a two-thirds majority vote in both houses of the Legislature. The Assembly narrowly approved the bill on Sept. 6 in a 55-10 vote, with Republicans in opposition and a number of moderate Democrats in the 80-member chamber withholding their vote. The 40-member Senate finalized it Thursday in a 29-10 vote.

Voters will now have the final say on the November 2024 ballot.

Heres what you need to know:

What would ACA 1 help build?

The ballot measure won't itself approve any special taxes and bonds or lead to the construction of new housing or public projects.

Instead, it's asking voters whether the threshold to pass taxes and bonds that cities use to pay for local services and affordable housing should be lowered from two-thirds to 55%, the same bar required to pass bonds for school renovations.

The proposal adds certain accountability requirements, including annual and independent audits of how money is used, and the establishment of citizens' oversight committees to track spending.

"Our state and local governments are under enormous pressure to address an ongoing crisis with housing and homelessness," Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, a Winters Democrat who wrote the proposal, said during a Monday committee hearing. "You cannot have housing without roads and sewers and public safety facilities. And approving ACA 1 will provide the most accountable transparent method in our state for doing so."

Why do supporters think this is a good idea?

Supporters of ACA 1 say requiring approval from two-thirds of voters has stymied affordable housing construction over the last several decades, and blocked necessary funding for public safety services and upgrades to parks, libraries, water or streets.

The initiative is sponsored by influential unions representing public service workers and construction laborers. Affordable housing groups, along with dozens of cities and counties across the state, also support ACA 1.

Jason Rhine, a lobbyist for the League of California Cities, said that when measures fall short of a supermajority vote, local governments are left without funds to update their infrastructure or build much-needed affordable housing to address a ballooning homelessness and mental health crisis.

"If a measure fails, there really isn't adequate resources there to take on all these really difficult challenges," Rhine said.

Other advocates for ACA 1 see it as course-correcting the fallout from Proposition 13, which they see as one reason housing in California is scarce and homeownership unaffordable.

"The voters of that era were a different cohort of voters," said Matt Lewis, a spokesperson for the pro-housing group California YIMBY. "We are now living in the 21st century with a set of tax measures passed by Californians 50 years ago almost.

"The basic nature of ACA 1 is how about we try a little more democracy in how we fund the things that we care about in California?"

What are the arguments against ACA 1?

Opponents of the measure contend it will make California, already one of the most expensive states to live, even more inaccessible to middle- and low-income residents.

Taxpayer watchdogs argue that ACA 1 rolls back long-established protections that maintain lower property and sales taxes. They say new taxes will drive businesses out of California, harm workers and add barriers to home ownership.

Jon Coupal, president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Assn., called ACA 1 a "direct attack on Proposition 13" that "opens the floodgates to higher taxes."

"The loss of that important protection in Prop. 13 means that struggling taxpayers will be hit with higher local taxes again and again after every election," Coupal said.

Peter Blocker, vice president of policy at the California Taxpayers Assn., said ACA 1 could lead to more than $250 million in increased taxes every election cycle. Blocker said the two-thirds threshold established by Proposition 13 safeguards Californains against "excessive taxation."

"It should come as no surprise that one of the biggest concerns we hear from taxpayers is the rising cost of living in California," Blocker said. "We think ACA 1 will worsen this problem and make the state less affordable."

Aguiar-Curry fast-tracked the proposal in the final weeks of this year's legislative session, but pledged to work on new legislation in 2024 to clarify remaining questions and ease opposition to the measure.

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Striking California workers are one gubernatorial signature away from being able to apply for and receive state-funded aid after a last-minute push by lawmakers.

The California Senate voted 27-12 on Thursday to concur with Assembly amendments to Senate Bill 799, authored by Democratic Sen. Anthony Portantino of Burbank. Only workers who have been on strike for at least 14 days would be eligible for the unemployment benefits.

Lets remember  when somebody goes on strike, its not a romantic thing. Its hard on that family, Portantino said during debate on the floor. People have raised legitimate concerns about the fund itself. The impact on that fund would be very minor relative to this bill, but the impact to the individual on strike would be significant.

Its unclear whether Newsom will sign the bill. The governor dodged the question at a Politico forum earlier this week, but noted his concerns about the nearly $18 billion in debt that the unemployment fund currently carries.

I havent read all these bills, Newsom said. What I am very aware of is the debt that we have accrued for the UI fund, he continued. I think one has to be cautious about that before you enter into a conversation about expanding its utilization.

State Sen. Anthony Portantino, D-Burbank, left, speaks with Sen. Angelique Ashby, D-Sacramento, in Senate chambers on Thursday, the final day of the legislative session.

The renewed effort to give strikers financial relief comes as tens of thousands of California workers, mostly in Los Angeles, walked off the job and onto the picket line during what some have called a hot labor summer.

The nearly 13,000 screenwriters represented by the Writers Guild of America have been on strike since May 2. Hundreds of thousands of actors represented by SAG-AFTRA joined them in solidarity in mid-July. Also in southern California, thousands of hotel workers walked out in early July, and Los Angeles municipal employees struck for a day in early August.

The bill faces harsh criticism from the business community in general and the California Chamber of Commerce in particular. The lobbying group has characterized the bill as a job killer and voiced concerns about increased taxes on employers. CalChamber has said it would seek a veto from Newsom if the Legislature passed the bill.

Portantino told The Bee shortly after the vote that he hasnt had the chance to speak with the governor about the bill and doesnt have specific ideas yet for how to improve the unemployment fund. But he was glad that SB 799 started the conversation about reform.

The positive consequence of 799 is it made the focus on the fund become a priority, he said. I think there will be a lot of conversation between now and January.

Lawmakers question future of UI fund, availability of money

Republican senators spoke in fervent opposition to the bill, saying that it turned the original intention of unemployment insurance on its head.

Im surprised that we even have a bill of this magnitude here in these chambers, said Republican Sen. Brian Dahle of Bieber. This is a horrible bill. This is a bad idea.

Californias unemployment insurance system is funded primarily by payroll taxes that employers pay to the federal government. The amount is calculated by taking a certain percentage of the first $7,000 that an employee earns in a calendar year. Committee analyses noted that California is one of the few states that hasnt increased the baseline amount of wages eligible for unemployment insurance taxes.

Dahle argued that asking employers to fund unemployment benefits for workers who are striking against them is an unthinkable ask for business owners. All eight Republicans voted against the measure, along with four Democrats.

Senators acknowledged the need to reform the funds finances.. A Senate labor committee analysis showed that the existing nearly $18 billion in debt would balloon into more than $20 billion by the end of 2024.

The only other states with similar laws are New York and New Jersey. In New York, an employee has to be on strike for 14 days before becoming eligible for unemployment benefits  down from seven weeks as of a change passed in 2020. New Jersey enacted its law in 2018 and recently amended it to decrease the waiting period from 30 days to 14 days.

I do wish there was better data to understand this and how it will impact our UI fund, and to look and see how the models in New York and New Jersey are working before we take this step, said Democratic Sen. Josh Becker of Menlo Park during the debate.

Becker noted that he spent the first two years in the Legislature on the Joint Legislative Audit Committee investigating the Employment Development Departments bungling of unemployment claims during the pandemic.

One thing is clear  we are in desperate need of unemployment reform, and I hope we start that conversation in earnest in the fall.

Portantino said hes committed to working on a reform effort next year, but that the condition of the fund shouldnt keep the Legislature from helping striking workers in the meantime.

This conversation about SB 799 has actually put the fund at the forefront of the conversation, he said. Were going to deal with that piece as well.

One criticism from Republicans and the business community is that paying unemployment benefits to workers who strike would give them more of an incentive to walk off the job. Republican Assemblyman Bill Essayli, from Corona, has argued that taxpayer dollars shouldnt be used to pay people who have jobs but are simply choosing to not work them.

The Senate labor committee analysts pointed out that the maximum unemployment insurance benefit that a worker could receive is $450 per week.

Considering the median weekly income of a Californian is roughly triple that amount, a worker is not likely to be incentivized to go on strike simply because they can get UI benefits, the analysis read.

Lawmakers in both the Assembly and Senate also raised questions about the states ability to accurately administer the additional benefits. The Employment Development Department, which operates the unemployment insurance program, came under harsh criticism during the COVID-19 pandemic for its mishandling of the large surge in claims, many of which ended up being fraudulent. Those missteps earned the department a classification as a high risk agency by the state auditors office last month.

Lets not take our concerns about EDD, about our funds, out on people who need the help right now, said Assemblymember Laura Friedman, D-Glendale, on the Assembly floor earlier this week.

Only a handful of strikes this year  including the actors and writers strikes  have lasted longer than 14 days, according to Cornell Universitys Labor Action Tracker. Additionally, a report from the National Employment Law Project, a labor advocacy group, pointed out that the number of striking workers who would be newly eligible for benefits would likely comprise a fraction of the claimants who apply for benefits due to job loss.

The number of potentially eligible striking workers simply pales in comparison to the overall pool of UI claimants, including the 157,000 workers who are, on average, laid off each month, the groups report read.

A representative of the Writers Guild of America spoke in favor of the bill before the Senate labor committee Wednesday morning, reminding members that studio executives in Hollywood have openly acknowledged their strategy of letting the union bleed out before resuming talks in the fall.

The endgame is to allow things to drag on until union members start losing their apartments and losing their houses, said one studio executive to Deadline, the online Hollywood news site, in July.

An employer shouldnt be able to use deep desperation to force movement at the table, Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher, leader of the California Labor Federation, previously told The Bee. The organization is a main sponsor of the bill, and Gonzalez Fletcher led previous efforts to expand unemployment benefits to workers on strike.

The Bee Capitol Bureaus Mathew Miranda contributed to this story.
FILE - Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet greets garment workers at Prey Speu village outside Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Aug. 29, 2023. Hun Manet headed to Beijing on Thursday, Sept. 14, on his first official trip abroad since taking office last month in a demonstration of his country's warm relations with China, its closest political and economic ally. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

BEIJING (AP)  Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet arrived in Beijing on Thursday on his first official trip abroad since taking office last month. The visit demonstrates his country's warm relations with China, Cambodia's closest political and economic ally.

Hun Manet was expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and other officials in the capital and to attend a weekend trade and investment expo in southern China, according to Cambodias Foreign Ministry.

A ministry statement said the two leaders would discuss tightening the nations' ties with the building of a Cambodia-China Community, strategic directions for their bilateral relations, and regional and international matters.

Chinese state broadcaster CGTN posted images of Hun Manet and his wife, Pich Chanmony, walking down the stairs from a plane to a red carpet on an airport tarmac, where they were greeted by two children, a Chinese official and others.

Hun Manet later laid a wreath at a monument in Beijing's Tiananmen Square that honors those who died fighting foreign invaders and in the protests and battles that brought China's ruling Communist Party to power in 1949.

Cambodia is a key Chinese diplomatic partner and supporter in regional and international forums. It helps dampen criticism of Beijing within the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, several of whose members are engaged in territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea.

China has gained important influence in Cambodian politics and its economy, as seen in the numerous Chinese-funded projects, hotels and casinos in the capital, Phnom Penh, and elsewhere around the country. Chinas state banks have financed airports, roads and other infrastructure built with Chinese loans. More than 40% of Cambodias $10 billion in foreign debt is owed to China.

After his meetings in Beijing, Hun Manet plans to attend the 20th ASEAN-China Expo in Nanning, a regional capital in southern China not far from the border with Vietnam, the Cambodian Foreign Ministry said.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang also is scheduled to attend the expo, along with the prime ministers of Malaysia, Vietnam and Laos, and senior government officials from Indonesia and Thailand, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said.

The expo promotes cooperation between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in trade, investment and tourism.

Cambodias close relations with Beijing were cultivated by Hun Manets father, Hun Sen , who stepped down last month as prime minister after almost four decades. His Cambodia Peoples Party has had a stranglehold on power, fostered by Hun Sens autocratic rule and adroit political maneuvers that crippled any effective opposition.

Chinas Foreign Minister Wang Yi had visited Cambodia to reaffirm his countrys commitment to its ally shortly after Hun Sen announced his retirement plan.

Hun Manet, Hun Sens eldest son, had been army commander before succeeding his father. He was educated at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, but is widely expected to maintain arms-length relations with Washington.

The U.S. has shown disapproval of Hun Sen's undemocratic moves and is also uneasy over the expansion of a Gulf of Thailand naval port Cambodia and China started last year. Hun Sen consistently denied that Cambodia had granted China the right to set up its own military base at Ream Naval Base.

Chinas Defense Ministry announced Thursday that the military would hold an annual joint exercise in Cambodia from mid- to late September to enhance their coordinated action and emergency response capabilities in medical services.

___

This story corrects all references to Hun Manet using both names to conform with style.

___

Sopheng Cheang reported from Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Albertsons and Smiths locations dominate the grocery industry in Las Vegas, and in an age where groceries are costing families more, concerns remain about cost, workers and competition if a proposed merger goes through.

The Albertsons-Kroger merger was announced nearly a year ago with intentions to close by early 2024. There are more than 20 Albertsons in Southern Nevada, along with over 20 Smiths, which are owned by Kroger.

What will happen to them if the merger continues? Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford says, Thats the question.

He joins at least 16 other states investigating the $24.6 billion merger, which Kroger says is to compete with the growing grocery success of Walmart and other companies. 15 of 46 Kroger-owned stores in Nevada would be sold to an east coast-based company, C&S Wholesale Grocers (owner of Piggy Wiggly and Grand Union), via a divestiture plan to sell 413 stores nationwide.

Which stores will be divested? We dont know, Ford said during an interview with 8 News Now Wednesday morning.

Ford invited Las Vegas Valley residents to voice their concerns during a listening session Wednesday morning inside Henderson Town Hall. Little showed any support for the merger.

The Las Vegas Valley community gathers inside the Henderson City Council Chambers Wednesday morning to voice concerns about the pending Albertsons-Kroger merger with the Nevada State Attorney General and Federal Trade Commission Chair. (KLAS)

Northern, south  we cannot afford this, Marlene Drozd said to Ford. D.C. doesnt have a clue of what middle America wants.

Walmart is the largest retailer in the world, but theyre not a conglomerate as this would be. This would be specifically controlling groceries, and potentially pharmacies as well, Matthew said.

If you consolidate the bargaining power from four different companies down to one, theyre going to bargain whats best for them, another woman said.

I want to be able to go to three different stores to get the best produce I can find, her friend added.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Lina Khan attended the session. The antitrust enforcement agency, along with the state, has the power to take the merger to court.

She vocalized skepticism while referencing previous mergers that did not uphold commitments and promises made prior. The Safeway-Albertsons merger of 2015, for example, included a divestiture plan that sold off stores to another company to ensure competition, which ended in a loss of competition when that company went bankrupt and closed those stores.

Outside an Albertsons in Henderson (KLAS)

Agencies have been unlikely to actually follow through, Khan said during an interview with 8 News Now after the session. If theres a merger that is presenting a lot of risk of reducing competition, may even create a monopoly, you know, we need to weigh those risks, and especially given that some of these remedies in the past have failed.

We should learn from my mistakes, and we should be able to, again, consider that in our informed decision-making process to ensure that if there are promises made, that there are ways to enforce those promises so that you arent burned, Ford said to 8 News Now.

United Food and Commercial Workers, the union representing grocery store workers, asked if a no closing and no-layoff clause would be included in negotiations to ensure workers in Nevada stores maintain job security. Khan, instead and broadly speaking, mentioned the companies have made promises and commitments.

While the merger is intended to close in just a few months, it will likely take months longer if a lawsuit is filed in federal court. Khan says it typically takes six to eight months for judges to hand down a decision.

Attendees also referenced these sessions as a foregone conclusion with expectations the merger would not be challenged by FTC or the state regardless of community feedback.

Were also hearing folks who actually support the merger. So again, the purpose of these meetings is to listen and to hear, and then to act upon that as we deliberate on this important issue, Ford said.

Five other listening sessions are scheduled throughout the Las Vegas Valley with the state attorney general through the end of September:

Sept. 14, 2023 (7:00 pm)  Mt. Crest Community Center 4701, N. Durango Drive, Las Vegas NV 89129

Sept. 18, 2023 (6:00 p.m.)  Parkdale Recreation Center, 3200 Ferndale Street, Las Vegas, NV 89121

Sept. 20, 2023 (6:00 pm)  Doolittle Community Center 1950 J Street, Las Vegas, NV 89106

Sept. 21, 2023 (7:00 p.m.)  Desert Breeze Community Center, 8275 Spring Mountain Road, Las Vegas, NV 89117

Sept. 27, 2023 (7:00 p.m.)  Paradise Community Center, 4775 McLeod Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89121

Secretaries of Colorado, Arizona, Vermont, Minnesota, Rhode Island, Maine and New Mexico sent a letter to FTC Chair Khan in August asking her to block the merger.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
A Cape Cod school bus driver appeared in court Thursday, accused of inappropriately touching a female student.

Jeffrey Hyland, 80, of West Yarmouth, is charged with aggravated indecent assault and battery and reckless endangerment of a child.

Barnstable Police received a report of a school bus driver who inappropriately touched a female student on his bus Wednesday around 1:30 p.m., according to the Cape and Islands DA. After recovering evidence of the alleged incident, investigators say they were able to arrest Hyland and hold him on $5,000 bail overnight.

The court ordered he be released on personal recognizance with no cash bail, to stay away and have no contact with the victim, and that he be fitted with a GPS monitoring device.

The Barnstable Public Schools prioritizes the safety of our students at all times and responds promptly to any report of this type of misconduct or abuse by an employee or contracted service provider, said Barnstable Superintendent Sara Ahern in a statement.

In responding to allegations, Superintendent Ahern says the District puts immediate measures in place to bring a sense of safety which includes removing the employee from the environment and launching an immediate investigation.

Barnstable Police say they will continue with their investigation regarding the allegations.

The school district is fully cooperating with the investigation, as is their bus contractor.

Hyland is due back in court on December 7 for a probable cause hearing.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
A car busted through a store wall, traveling through a Verizon store in Statesville and injuring an employee on Wednesday morning, Statesville Police report.

The two people in the car, ages 81 and 85, were not injured in the crash.

One employee was reportedly close to the area where the car broke through the wall. Although the employee was not hit by the car itself, the debris that scattered from the point of impact caused minor injuries, sending the employee to the hospital.

The car was a 2013 Chevrolet Cruise, driven by the 81-year-old.

READ MORE: Driver runs off road, crashing into east Charlotte building

No charges are being sought against the driver, according to SPD.

After investigating the scene, the Statesville Fire Department reported the rest of the building at 1025 Glenway Drive is intact.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

(WATCH: Look twice: Construction workers shaken after deadly scaffolding accident)
Carolina Forest residents could decide by next year whether their sprawling community should split from Horry County and become its own city, although many questions remain unanswered about how much the move would cost and what services it would bring.

If were responsible, if we care about the future, we can change the landscape of what Carolina Forest will look look within a couple of years, but until then were at the whims of what the county council wants to do, homeowner Kevin Kiely said.

Carolina Forest is already the size of a large South Carolina city with a population of more than 23,000. But it sits entirely within Horry County, preventing local governance on issues from zoning to public safety and traffic control.

Organizers of the incorporation effort are using Carolina Forests 18-square-mile boundary as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau for its calculations.

About 20,000 people live in that area, meaning 3,000 signatures in support of incorporation need to be gathered before state lawmakers consider the request.

People who live here need to make decisions about what this place is going to look like in 20 years, said Norm Fay, a former Carolina Forest Civic Association member whos been spearheading informational sessions around the idea.

The petition drive hasnt yet begun, but theres still time to make the November 2024 ballot.

Whats needed to become incorporated in SC?

Should the S.C. Secretary of State and a joint legislative committee approve an incorporation proposal, a special election is required between 20 and 90 days of its ruling.

A 2005 state law is the blueprint communities must follow on their quest for autonomy.

Lawmakers set a high bar to ensure residents in newly formed communities arent being underserved when compared to their neighbors.

Heres a look at the guidelines:

Incorporated areas must have at least 300 people per square mile.

At least 15 percent of qualified electors in the would-be city must petition for incorporation.

No part of the incorporated area can be within five miles of an already established city or town unless it has a population of at least 7,000.

Feasibility studies must be submitted to and approved by the Secretary of State after legislative review.

Incorporated areas must directly provide or contract for law enforcement while also providing at least three other core services. That could include fire protection, solid waste collection, planning and zoning, code enforcement and storm water collection.

The services must be implemented within three years of incorporation.

Doug Hess, who moved into Carolina Forest 13 years ago from New Jersey, wont be among those putting his name to the effort.

Anyone whos for it needs a check-up from the neck up, he said. Taxes wouldnt be able to support the living standards we have now and would just go sky high for services were getting for free.

Newly released economic impact data provided to Fay by Horry County Assessor Larry Roscoe shows Carolina Forests financial clout. Properties within its 18-square-mile radius have a total market value of $4.2 billion, providing nearly $40 million worth of revenues to the county.

In 2017, Carolina Forest generated about $17 million worth of tax revenues, according to a study commissioned that year by the civic association.

To me, thats kind of the elephant in the room. If were not getting our share of county revenue or county support, than I dont know what the benefit would be of incorporation, Carolina Forest resident Bob Akers said.
Carville on McCarthys impeachment inquiry: How could we get so lucky?

Democratic strategist James Carville is welcoming House Republicans pursuit of an impeachment inquiry against President Biden.

How could we get so lucky? Carville said to CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins in a Wednesday interview.

Carville called some of the leaders of the recently announced impeachment inquiry borderline stupid, including Reps. James Comer (R-Ky.) and Jim Jordan (R-Ohio). He said their effort is vapid and useless.

I want to let the American public see how thin, or how nonexistent their case is, Carville said.

Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) on Tuesday directed House committees to open a formal impeachment inquiry into the president based on House GOP investigations into Biden and his familys foreign business dealings and the prosecution of his son, Hunter.

McCarthy said the probe would be led by Comer, Jordan and Rep. Jason Smith (R-Mo.), who are heads of the House Oversight, Judiciary and Ways and Means committees, respectively.

I do not make this decision lightly. And regardless of your party, or who you voted for, these facts should concern all Americans, McCarthy said.

Bidens campaign has begun fundraising off the effort, calling it beyond ridiculous in a new email.

Its clear: Theyre going to throw everything they have at Joe, because they know they cant run against our record, the email reads.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
General view of Derna city during the Sunrise, following a powerful storm and heavy rainfall hitting the country

GENEVA (Reuters) - The head of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Thursday that casualties could have been avoided in the floods that hit Libya if the divided country had a functional weather service able to issue warnings.

Speaking to reporters in Geneva, WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas said Libya's main challenge in managing the aftermath of floods that have killed thousands was that the governing was "not functioning normally".

"If they would have been a normally operating meteorological service, they could have issued a warnings," he said.

"The emergency management authorities would have been able to carry out evacuation of the people. And we could have avoided most of the human casualties."

Rescue operations are complicated by political fractures in the country that has been at war on-and-off with no strong central government since a NATO-backed uprising toppled Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

An internationally recognised Government of National Unity (GNU) is based in Tripoli, in the west, while a parallel administration operates in the east, including the city of Derna, which has been devastated by flooding.

Taalas said WMO had previously been in touch with Libyan authorities to assist them in reforming the meteorological system, but that these efforts had been hampered by security threats.

"Since the security situation in the country is so difficult, it's difficult to go there and improve the situation," he said.

(Reporting by Cecile Mantovani; Writing by Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber; Editing by)
The two-week search for a convicted murderer who escaped from a Pennsylvania prison ended Wednesday after Danelo Cavalcante was captured, officials said. But decades before Cavalcante used a "crab-walk" to scale the walls of the Chester County Prison exercise yard, another manhunt in the '90s had Pennsylvanians on edge.

In one of Pennsylvania's largest manhunts before Cavalcante, convicted killer Norman Johnston managed to elude police in three different states  Pennsylvania, Maryland and Delaware  and stayed on the lam for 19 days.

"People were scared. This was a four-time convicted murderer," former Pennsylvania State Police Captain Henry Oleyniczak, who led the 1999 search, told CBS News. "They didn't know what he was going to do or what was going to happen."

A correction investigation report obtained exclusively and reviewed by CBS details eerie similarities between the two escapes, manhunts and captures more than 20 years apart.

The choices made by the escaped killers during their time on the outside were nearly identical. Both Johnston and Cavalcante stole vehicles and contacted relatives and friends to help them. Hundreds of law enforcement officers swarmed Chester County to search for both escaped killers during the hot August months. Residents reported multiple sightings. And both manhunts ended just miles from the prisons from which they escaped.

Lt. Col. George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police briefs the media on developments in the manhunt for convicted murderer Danelo Cavalcante at Po-Mar-Lin Fire Company on Sept. 10, 2023, in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. / Credit: Getty Images

Even with the drones, heat-seeking technology and the advanced communications available today, both men were eventually captured using tried-and-true policing methods, search dogs and tips from the public.

In 1999, it all started sometime during the early morning hours of Aug. 2, when convicted killer Norman Johnston left behind a makeshift "dummy" on the bed of his prison cell. A corrections officer opened the cell door, tried to shake Johnston and discovered the dummy in the bed, the corrections report said.

The dummy was made of crumpled newspapers and paper bags shaped like a person curled into a fetal position with the "knees drawn" up. The head was a plastic bag, filled with pillow stuffing, to which Johnston had glued hair. It wasn't clear where Johnston got the hair from, although there was a barber shop on the facility grounds, the corrections report said.

Norman Johnston, left, and his brother David Johnston enter a Cambria County courtroom at Ebensburg, Penn., March 19, 1980. They were found guilty of four of five murder charges against them. Prosecutors say the murders were carried out to protect a lucrative family crime ring. / Credit: R.C. Greenawalt / AP

Johnston had about a 10-hour start because he counted on correction officers not taking a close look into the cell. The subsequent investigation revealed that inmates routinely blacked out lights with pen ink or broke them so corrections officers couldn't clearly see what was happening inside the cells.

Johnston had shimmed out of his cell window  which was 1 foot wide and 4 feet tall  after cutting the center bar with a hacksaw blade. Corrections officials believe the blade and screwdriver needed to remove the bar and security screen were smuggled to Johnston through the mail. The items arrived at the prison addressed to other inmates and were passed to him through an internal network of inmates and staff. Investigators believe that a corrections officer and staff nurse brought him the items needed for the escape either in a "bag of instant coffee, antacid bottle or chewing tobacco."

The focus of the manhunt, then and now, was Chester County, a rural community "where people don't lock their doors," said Oleyniczak.

Oleyniczak said that even though Chester County residents were scared, there was a mystique around the "Johnston Gang," led by older brother Bruce, who illegally sold tractors, trucks and other automobiles. Numerous books have been written about their criminal exploits and the movie "At Close Range," starring Sean Penn and Christopher Walken, was made based on their lives.

The family had deep roots in Chester County and Oleyniczak said there were businesses selling T-shirts during the manhunt that said "Run Norman Run."

One of the main differences between the searches, Oleyniczak noted, was that "there was no desire from the community for Cavalcante to stay out longer."

Oleyniczak said his team decided to take a "high-key" approach to the search. They established a perimeter, alerted the public and held media briefings every day. "We needed the public to be the eyes and ears to help us catch Johnston," said Oleyniczak.

One of the first things that Johnston did when he reached the heavily wooded forests surrounding the prisons was steal a vehicle similar to Cavalcante on Monday night. A hundred law enforcement officers swarmed the 600-acre Nottingham County Park where Johnston first escaped, according to testimony Oleyniczak gave. The heat and humidity made it difficult to locate Johnston; the summer brush and tree cover were so thick that they "couldn't cut through it," he said.

Johnston made a phone call to a relative looking for help, according to the testimony. State police found Johnston with a backpack of neatly folded clothes and "rolls of quarters," Oleyniczak said. Similarly, Cavalcante called his sister and former co-workers, authorities said.

To find Johnston, Oleyniczak called in additional air support and additional communication support was called in when a second stolen vehicle was found the next morning and residents of the Nottingham Towers Apartments called 911 with sightings.

A $40,000 award was offered and Johnston's story was featured on "America's Most Wanted." About 60 leads were generated from the show, but no Johnston. On Aug. 16, 1999, almost two weeks after he escaped, Johnston got into a fight with an unarmed University of Delaware police officer in Newark, Delaware.

The next day, the search task force brought bloodhounds to the area to retrace the steps Johnston made in reaching Newark. Johnston told state police "he was up all night from the sounds of the dogs," Oleyniczak recalled.

A Border Patrol K-9, Yoda, was instrumental in the capture of Cavalcante.

On Aug. 18, Johnston stole another vehicle by the Pennsylvania and Delaware state lines  the search had come full circle. Like Cavalcante, the stolen vehicle was spotted by Kennett Square in Pennsylvania.

Police stand guard on the perimeter of a search zone for an escaped prisoner on Sept. 8, 2023, in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. Law officers, tactical teams, cops on horseback, tracking dogs and aircraft were all searching for Danelo Souza Cavalcante, a 34-year-old from Brazil, who escaped from the Chester County Prison on Aug. 31. / Credit: Getty Images

Law enforcement swarmed the area and spotted Johnston around 10:30 p.m. when he lost control of the vehicle and crashed. He ran from the car and made his way on foot near Mendenhall, Pennsbury Township, in Chester County. At 5:30 a.m., a worried couple called 911 after hearing a noise in front of their home. By 5:45 a.m., police swarmed the home and apprehended Johnston, who according to local news reports, told authorities, "I'm tired."

Cavalcante set off a resident burglar alarm that alerted law enforcement to his location. He was captured Wednesday and was transferred to SCI Phoenix, a state maximum-security prison in Pennsylvania's Montgomery County, a spokesperson for the Department of Corrections said.

Johnston, now 73, is being held in SCI Forest in Chester County, according to online prison records.

Congress reacts to Hunter Biden indictment

Migrant center housing unaccompanied minors reopens in Texas

Lawmakers weigh in on Hunter Biden indictment
Caver rescued in Turkey opens up about his underground brush with death

Mersin, Turkey  American researcher Mark Dickey, who was rescued earlier this week after becoming stuck more than 3,000 feet deep in a Turkish cave, has shared his incredible survival story with CBS News. Dickey, 40, is an experienced caver, but he got stranded deep inside Turkey's Morca cave system after becoming seriously ill on September 2.

He was pulled to safety more than a week later, thanks to an international rescue effort involving almost 200 people, but after suffering from internal bleeding, there were times when Dickey said he was barely clinging to life.

Recovering Thursday in a hospital in the city of Mersin, he smiled, laughed, and even walked along as he told CBS News that he had opened the door of death, but managed to close it again thanks to the herculean efforts of everyone who rushed in to help.

American scientist Mark Dickey who was rescued from a cave in Turkey, and his fiancee Jessica Van Ord are seen during an interview at a hospital in Mersin, Turkey, Sept. 13, 2023. / Credit: Serkan Avci/Anadolu Agency/Getty

Doctors were still scanning the American's body to try to figure out what caused the severe internal bleeding, but Dickey told us he always knew the risks involved with his work, and his passion.

"Caving is not inherently a dangerous sport," he said. "But it's a dangerous location."

"There's a point you cross," said Dickey, "which is kind of  you get hurt after this, and you very well might die."

He was 3,000 feet underground when he started vomiting blood. He told CBS News his first thought was, "What the hell is going on? I don't know, but I'm probably going to be fine."

The situation deteriorated rapidly, however, and as more blood came up, he realized it was "really bad."

He still didn't know the cause of his ailment, but he knew he "must get back to camp right now."

Dickey's team sent word to the surface that he needed a rescue, and fast.

Turkish and Bulgarian rescuers stand at the entrance of Morca Cave as they take part in a rescue operation to extract U.S. caver Mark Dickey, who fell ill some 3,280 feet inside the cave, near Anamur in Mersin province, southern Turkey, September 8, 2023. / Credit: UMIT BEKTAS/REUTERS

"Within the next couple hours, it became very apparent that everything was not okay," he recalled.

It was also apparent to Jessica van Ord, Dickey's partner, a trained paramedic and cave rescuer who was with him when he took a turn for the worse.

"Technically I was the first rescuer on the scene," she told CBS News. "He was curled up in the fetal position and I could just feel his pain, and I didn't yet know that he was thinking that he was on the verge of death."

Above ground, a multinational rescue effort was swinging into action. Scores of volunteers and medics flew in, bringing down blood and fluids to keep Dickey stable.

The open cross-section of the Morca Cave. Mark is currently residing at the campsite at 1040 meters from the entrance. It takes a full ~15h for an experienced caver to reach to the surface in ideal conditions. The cave features narrow winding passages and several rappels. pic.twitter.com/yP2almvEDf  Turkiye Magaraclk Federasyonu (@tumaf1) September 5, 2023

Teams from Europe and Turkey were assigned sections of the cave, told to devise solutions to help Dickey make the ascent as quickly as possible. Each section presented its own challenges, with twists and turns, narrow passages and fridged pools of water to navigate over a distance more than twice the height of the Empire State Building.

During most of the rescue, Dickey was cocooned on a stretcher, hooked up to an IV, and with a doctor always by his side.

Eleven days later, he emerged.

"It was a crazy, crazy adventure" he said right after reaching the surface.

But even after the ordeal, Dickey told CBS News he has no intention of abandoning caving  "never!"

"The places that I go, no human has gone before," he said. "The places that I'm getting to are so challenging, so difficult, so remote."

He said he'd seen people compare cave exploration to climbing Mount Everest.

"These are the extremes of the world," he said. "This is a calm, cool, collected, careful sport, and through that, you can get to amazing places."

Dickey said he would remain in the hospital for further scans until next week, but he's already thinking about next month, when he hopes to dive back into the Earth  to keep exploring those amazing places.

Migrant center housing unaccompanied minors reopens in Texas

Lawmakers weigh in on Hunter Biden indictment

U.N. says most deaths from Libya floods were preventable, death toll could reach 20,000
FILE PHOTO: Google as an exihibitor on the 're:publica' in Berlin

FILE PHOTO: Google as an exihibitor on the 're:publica' in Berlin

By Jeff Mason

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Chief executives from a wide array of U.S. companies met White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients on Thursday to discuss refugee resettlement and sponsorship programs as well as ways to help refugees get jobs and access to transport, the White House said.

The CEOs attending included Alphabet's Sundar Pichai, Walmart's Doug McMillon, Pfizer's Albert Bourla , HP's Enrique Lores and others. They are part of a council of leaders affiliated with Welcome.US, a group dedicated to helping support refugees in the United States.

They were meeting with Zients and other White House officials "to discuss specific ways we can continue to work together to support safe, orderly pathways for people in need of safety to come to the United States, including through refugee resettlement and new, expanded humanitarian sponsorship programs," a White House official told Reuters ahead of the meeting.

Gap CEO Richard Dickson, Accenture CEO Julie Sweet, Lyft Inc CEO David Risher, Chobani CEO Hamdi Ulukaya, and T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert also attended, along with representatives from Airbnb, Goldman Sachs, Meta and others.

The White House said after the meeting that the officials and executives discussed long-term needs of refugees but also solutions to immediate ones, including providing credits for ride-share services and money for public transportation, increasing offers of pro bono legal services, and helping people eligible to work to get jobs.

They also talked about mentorship working with communities to sponsor and welcome refugees, it said.

"Todays meeting highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in building durable and scalable capacity to better respond to the global displacement crisis," the White House said in a statement.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul met Zients and other senior administration officials last month to discuss an influx of migrants in New York City that has strained its resources.

Republicans have hammered Biden, a Democrat, for his policies on immigration, and the issue is likely to feature prominently in the 2024 presidential campaign, when Biden, who is running for re-election, is likely to face former President Donald Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican presidential nomination and an immigration hardliner.

Biden sought at the beginning of his administration to recast the U.S. immigration system, but appetite in Congress for comprehensive reform legislation has been low.

The White House, which says it wants to partner with the private sector to build a humane immigration system, worked with Welcome.US to help Afghan refugees coming to the United States after Biden pulled U.S. troops out of Afghanistan in 2021.

Welcome.US and its CEO Council have worked with the administration to "implement the largest expansion of humanitarian sponsorship pathways to safety in the United States in recent history," a representative for the group said.

(Reporting by Jeff Mason; Editing by Christian Schmollinger and Stephen Coates)
A free-for-all erupted in a hallway of one Florida high school as more than a dozen students engaged in kicking, punching and hair pulling, videos show.

Several fights were reported Tuesday, Sept. 12, inside Zephyrhills High School, causing it to be declared a controlled campus, according to the Pasco County Sheriffs Office. Zephyrhills is about 30 miles northeast of Tampa.

The fights occurred during lunch, and WTVT reports 13 students have been charged with offenses ranging from battery to disruption of a school function.

Brawls filled the hall of a Florida high school as more than a dozen students begin fighting at lunch period, the school reports.

Videos shared on Facebook and YouTube show male and female students were piled atop each other as they threw punches. Teachers and staff who tried to intervene were seen being pushed or thrown to the floor, including a woman identified as the schools principal.

A cause for the fights has not been released.

Two separate altercations involving 14 total students co-occurred in the cafeteria and a hallway during the transition of two student groups at lunchtime, Pasco County Schools officials said.

Our school security and dedicated staff members promptly intervened. However, the sheer number of students involved and the intensity of the situation made their intervention challenging, as students continued to engage in the altercation despite efforts to de-escalate.

School staff members tried to pull students apart and some were thrown to the ground, the video shows.

Principal Christina Stanley and the school administrators are considering disciplinary action for the students involved, and the Pasco County Sheriffs Office is conducting an investigation, officials said.

The students involved in the fights were kept off campus Wednesday for the safety and well-being of all students and staff, officials said. Additional officers were also placed at the school, which has an enrollment of just over 1,600 students.

Behavior of this nature will not be tolerated in Pasco County Schools, Superintendent Kurt Browning said in a release. Every student has the right to a safe and conducive learning environment, and we will take every necessary measure to ensure that this remains the case.

Fan ejected from high school game circled stadium with 5 guns in car, Florida cops say

Mom accused of strangling her 13-year-old son to death in bed, Florida sheriff says

Young alligator found living it up in softball dugout at Florida high school, cops say
Lincoln County leaders say they are concerned the YMCA of Greater Charlotte is preparing to sell two branches in the county so that the financially struggling nonprofit can save money, and that one potential owner might not continue to operate the YMCA.

The YMCA of Greater Charlotte said Wednesday it is exploring possibilities for the future of all facilities, but that no final decision has been made on the fate of the Lincoln County Family YMCA in Lincolnton or Sallys YMCA in Denver.

But with Lincoln Charter School as one potential bidder for the properties, the future of the two branches has unleashed a heated debate among leaders and community members on social media about whether the YMCA is honoring its commitment to best serve community needs.

Lincoln County Schools Superintendent Aaron Allen, a past board chair of the Lincoln County Y, sent an email to YMCA of Greater Charlotte leaders Sunday expressing concern that the nonprofit is prioritizing money over the community. The email has since been circulated on social media, and leaders such as Sallys YMCA board member and Lincoln County Schools Board of Education member Krista Heavner have expressed concern.

These branches are, at the core, fundamentally supposed to serve those that need (the) most equitable chances to improve self, Allen wrote in the email. The Lincoln Co YMCA acquisition plan is an afterthought from the charter school and with that approach, I am demonstratively disappointed that the spirit of the YMCA has been lost due to the chance to chase a dollar.

RELATED: NoDa Y sale is symptom of bigger financial problems at Charlottes YMCAr

In an interview with the Observer, Allen said: At the end of the day, this is a community public health issue that if these Ys were to shut down or change direction or morph, then thats where it becomes a problem that the county has got to be aware of. It has sparked a groundswell of conversation, if nothing else, around here, and that is for everyones benefit.

The Greater Charlotte YMCA, which includes the Lincoln Ys, said in a statement Wednesday that all options currently under consideration include the YMCA continuing to serve Lincoln County.

The YMCA did not respond to a request for clarification on whether that would include a physical presence in Lincoln County.

On Wednesday, Allen met with Greater Charlotte YMCA interim CEO Gene Johnson. A joint statement issued Thursday by the organizations led by both men, along with board chairs of the two Lincoln County Ys, said a community task force will be formed and meet with the intent to have an agreed-upon direction by the end of this year.

As a group, we look forward to working with one another, along with other community partners, to come up with the best solution for the citizens, families and children of Lincoln County, the statement said.

Sallys YMCA in Denver is part of the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.

Easing financial burden

Selling two of its branches would help ease a financial burden for the YMCA of Greater Charlotte, which has struggled financially since the pandemic. According to the YMCAs tax records, total revenue was down more than 28% from 2019 to 2021, the most recent year for which records are available. In an effort to restructure the organization to save money, the YMCA has focused on improving profitability in four main areas: philanthropy, camping, programs and services, and footprint.

The most noticeable changes have occurred under the footprint heading, and the YMCA of Greater Charlotte announced earlier this year that it has reached an agreement to sell its Johnston branch in NoDa. That branch will close at the end of 2023, and county records show that a developer plans to build an apartment community called NoDa Village at that site.

The Johnston Y property and buildings have an appraised value of $19.4 million, according to county records.

YMCA of Greater Charlotte said last month that it was exploring having another YMCA association assume operation of its Lincoln County branches, and a spokesperson for the YMCA of Catawba Valley confirmed that it had submitted a Letter of Intent to acquire both. YMCA of Greater Charlotte did not comment on whether Catawba Valley still is a possibility to acquire the branches.

The Lincolnton branch historically has not been profitable. The two properties have a combined appraised value of $12.4 million, according to Lincoln County records.

The YMCA of Greater Charlotte announced that the Johnston branch in NoDa will be closing at the end of the year. They have talked for years of trying to renovate the building, but COVID hit the YMCA hard financially, and they need to sell the building to ensure they have money coming in.

Lincoln Charter School interest

Lincoln Charter School Chief Administrator Jonathan Bryant told the Observer his school has talked to the Y, but has not submitted an official offer. Bryant said his schools two sites have a long-term strategic plan that includes expanding its facilities.

Its no secret that our campuses still have needs from an extracurricular perspective, and so weve talked about facilities needs and things of that nature, Bryant said.

Bryant would not confirm details of any plans for a potential purchase of the Lincoln County branches, but said that he wants the YMCA to continue to operate in the county.

As a leader of Lincoln Charter, I would hate to see the Y cease to exist in Lincoln County, Bryant said. Thats not good for anybody  including our own community, the Lincoln Charter community. Our parents work there, our kids go there.

In Lincoln County, the YMCA of Greater Charlotte touts the two branches as the countys largest child care provider, serving more than 300 children weekly in our preschool, afterschool, homeschool and camp programs, and that more than 20,000 people use both facilities annually.

The after-school component piece would change our economy, would change parents ability to have gainful employment, to know that they dont all have to get off (work) at 2:30, 3 oclock to get their kids, Allen said of the possibility of losing child care if the Ys close. So, I have an interest in what happens.

If the branches are acquired by an organization that would close the physical structure, community members like Laura Helms would be frustrated.

Its just disappointing, said Helms, who teaches a fitness class at Sallys YMCA. We all grew up with these Ys around us, and then for them to sell and theres not going be any local childrens programs, just for a dollar? For what? I think thats the hard part to see.
New York State Police said a Chenango County woman was killed and three others were injured Tuesday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash in the Town of North Norwich.

Norwich-based troopers said Lorena Mayes, 82, of Norwich was pronounced dead at Chenango Memorial Hospital following the 2 p.m. crash at the intersection of state Road 12 and county Road 32.

Crash investigators said Mayes was driving a Buick Lucerne, and after stopping at the intersection the car pulled out into the direct path of a Ford Explorer.

More: Endwell man, 33, identified as pedestrian struck, killed by train in Town of Union

Police said a 91-year-old female passenger in the Buick was taken to Chenango Memorial Hospital with what appear to be non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the Explorer, a 75-year-old male from Sherburne, New York, and a 66-year-old female passenger, were taken to Basset Hospital in Cooperstown for treatment. Their injuries did not appear to be life-threatening, State Police said.

Norwich Ambulance assisted State Police at the scene and in transporting patients.

Follow Neal Simon on Twitter @HornellTribNeal. To get unlimited access to the latest news, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on The Evening Tribune: Driver, 82, killed in Chenango County highway crash
This photo shows the Chevron LNG project under construction on Barrow Island, Western Australia, on April 11, 2016. A Chevron Corp. liquid national gas plant reported a production outage on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023 as workers escalated strike action against the U.S. engery giant's Australian operations that threaten global supply. (Ray Strange/AAP Images via AP)

SYDNEY (AP)  A Chevron Corp. liquefied natural gas plant in Australia reported a production outage Thursday as workers escalated a strike action against facilities that provide more than 5% of global LNG supplies.

The U.S. energy giant said in a statement that it was working to resume full production at its Wheatstone facility following a fault which has impacted about 25% of LNG production.

The cause has been identified and restart activities have commenced, the statement said.

Chevron's Wheatstone and Gorgon plants in Western Australia state account for more than 5% of global LNG supply.

Chevron did not link the disruption to an escalation Thursday in the strikes at its Wheatstone and Gorgon LNG plants. Around 500 workers at the two Chevron sites have been taking limited strike actions since Sept. 8 in a dispute over wages and conditions.

The Offshore Alliance, a partnership between the Australian Workers Union and the Maritime Union of Australia that represents workers in Australias offshore oil and gas industry, said on social media that industrial action had escalated today on the Chevron facilities and will continue to escalate over the coming days and weeks.

The alliance did not immediately respond when asked Thursday to explain how the industrial campaign had escalated or what was planned.

Chevron lawyers told an industrial court this week that the labor action posed a significant risk to production.
STAUNTON  Before opening Chicano Boy Taco, Justin Hershey had developed a wood-fired pizza concept at Newtown Baking with owner Bill Willett. Newtown Baking was eventually sold by Willett and the business closed in 2021, but Hershey has been thinking about a way to bring pizza back to Staunton ever since.

He will do that this December with Pizza Luca, a new brick oven pizza restaurant on North Lewis Street next to Silver Line Theatre and not far from Chicano Boy, the Mexican-American taqueria Hershey started in 2015. Pizza Luca will be located at 213 N. Lewis St.

"It was really a special place and in my eyes, we were really doing some awesome stuff and we had a great staff and a great vibe," Hershey said of Newtown Baking. "So trying to recapture that."

When he was 19, Hershey got a job in a restaurant and worked his way from the front of the house to the back. Someone saw some potential and suggested he go to culinary school, which he did in West Palm Beach, Florida. He admitted he was never a great student in school, but something about the food industry clicked with him. He liked music. He liked mischief. And he liked partying. Hershey said the hospitality industry offered all of those.

"It felt like the right environment for the kind of person that I am," he said.

Hershey graduated from Riverheads High School, moving to the area with his uncle, who had retired from the Air Force and was working for a large corporation who gave him the option to work remotely. They moved from Northern Virginia to Augusta County, quite a culture shock for Hershey, who is half Mexican on his father's side.

Hershey had lived throughout the United States as a military kid, but never in a rural southern town. He went from a school of 3,300 students in Fairfax to one with fewer than 500 kids his senior year in Augusta County. He also went from a school with incredible diversity to one where it was him, his sister and maybe two or three other students who were non-white.

It was a big change for him, but looking back one that he said enriched his life.

"I didn't really appreciate it then, but it certainly helped me stay out of a lot of trouble that I had found in Fairfax County," he said. "And now I prefer it. I like to travel to the city. I like to travel internationally, but I really like living in a small town."

Staunton has fit the bill for him to combine that love of small town with his abilities as a chef. Pizza Luca will help him expand his footprint on Staunton's restaurant scene.

When Hershey first looked at the space on North Lewis in the summer of 2022 he thought it was too large, but since then it's been split into two separate rentals. Hershey was much happier with the smaller space, which he agreed to rent in February. He's been working on it since with plans to open in December. He had hoped it might open earlier but, as with a lot of older buildings, there were issues he ran into that needed to be addressed.

Hershey described the restaurant as fast casual 2.0, similar to Chicano Boy. He wants to keep the price point as low as possible and the quality of food as high as possible.

"So quick service, counter service," Hershey said. "We will have craft beer in the bottle, some wine and then pizza, salad, wings, pasta, basically anything that you would see from a fast food pizza joint. Imagine that menu and then knock it up on the quality scale, three to five rungs. That's what we're kind of shooting for. So crowd favorites, just better ingredients."

Hershey likes the concept of brick oven pizza, the ability to strip away the complexity to get to the essence of cooking. He likes the smokiness of the pizza, calling it "tasting the oven." The direct cooking method can preserve the raw qualities of the ingredients. For instance, Hershey said the mozzarella can maintain its creaminess without breaking it or cold cuts don't lose their quality.

"There's some purity to it, I think," he said. "Coming from a culinarian, the simplicity is beautiful. And the purity of it is somewhat romantic but alluring."

Pizza Luca will join Hershey's other food ventures, including both Chicano Boy in Staunton and Richmond and the new Chicano Boy food truck. He has some other things in the works, but isn't ready to discuss them just yet.

"I'm excited about it," Hershey said of Pizza Luca. "I know that the people that are knowledgeable are about it are quite excited."

More: Harry Potter fans get ready for the 8th Queen City Mischief & Magic festival in Staunton

More: Wildfire in Shenandoah National Park now 60% contained

 Patrick Hite is a reporter at The News Leader. Story ideas and tips always welcome. Contact Patrick (he/him/his) at phite@newsleader.com and follow him on Twitter @Patrick_Hite. Subscribe to us at newsleader.com.

This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: Chicano Boy owner opening brick oven pizza restaurant in Staunton
(FOX40.COM)  Assemblymember Juan Alanis passed his third bill (AB 243) through the California State Senate Tuesday in a 39-0 unanimous vote, according to a press release.

The bill is said to grant the same safety protections to child abduction victims that are currently given to victims of human trafficking, domestic abuse, and similar violent crimes.

Bill to counteract book banning passes California Assembly and Senate

This is common sense legislation that will become a great resource for victims across California, Alanis said. I am thankful to have bipartisan, bicameral support on this legislation.

Most cases of child abduction across California are cases of parental abduction, according to reports. Officials say AB 243 will allow victims and members of their households to apply for name and address confidentiality, helping individuals to feel safe in their homes.

He did his time: Man found to be an accessory to a double-murder in 1998 could be released soon thanks to a recent law

California has been a long-standing leader for victims rights and compensation, said the Assemblyman. We must continue to prioritize crime victims in California by offering resources and expanding the programs and opportunities that protect the most vulnerable among us.

This legislation would reportedly add California to the growing list of states that offer similar protections to abduction victims. AB 243 has passed through the state legislature with zero opposition and passed unanimously off the Senate floor, Tuesday.

If signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, officials say AB 243 would go into effect in July 2024. Victims could apply through the Secretary of States Safe at Home program.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
A 12-year-old girl discovered a pastor recording her undressing at her church youth groups camp site in western New York, according to court documents.

Now her former youth pastor, Nathan L. Rogers, 39, of East Aurora, is facing up to 20 years in federal prison, prosecutors announced on Sept. 13.

The case dates to July 2019, when the child traveled with her Buffalo-area youth group to attend a Christian music festival at Darien Lake Park in Genesee County, according to an affidavit.

After the child visited Darien Lakes water park, Rogers invited her to change into dry clothes in his camper instead of her tent, telling her it would be more comfortable than changing in a hot tent, the affidavit says.

Inside the camper, the girl found a hidden iPhone propped on a ledge and concealed by clothes that had been recording her after she finished dressing, according to the affidavit. Then, she found a second hidden iPhone on Rogers bed that was also recording her, the affidavit says.

Upon finding Rogers phones, the child tried deleting the videos of herself before reporting him to law enforcement, according to federal prosecutors, who said Rogers recorded her for the purposes of his own sexual gratification.

When officers arrived and asked Rogers if he knew why they were there, he said, I did something really stupid, and told them he set up the cameras inside his camper, the affidavit says.

Now Rogers has pleaded guilty to attempted receipt of child pornography, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of New York announced in a news release.

He will be sentenced to at least five years in prison, the mandatory minimum penalty for the charge hes pleaded guilty to, on Dec. 13, according to prosecutors.

Attorney Phil A. Modrzynski, who represents Rogers, told McClatchy News in a statement that he admitted to his regretful conduct and cooperated with law enforcement.

Rogers has always accepted accountability for his conduct and is extremely remorseful for what happened that day, Modrzynski said.

His client was previously a youth pastor at Life Church in West Seneca, The Buffalo News reported.

McClatchy News contacted Life Church for comment on Sept. 14 and was awaiting a response.

Rogers guilty plea in federal court comes after he was sentenced to six months in state jail for unlawful surveillance, according to The Buffalo News.

Darien Lake Park is about 30 miles east of Buffalo.

Pastor of Missouri church calls autism demonic, says it can be healed with prayer

Pastor drove to US from Canada to sexually assault 15-year-old he met online, feds say

Youth leader used church group as dating pool and groomed underage girls, feds say
FILE PHOTO: An attendant walks past EU and China flags ahead of the EU-China High-level Economic Dialogue in Beijing

BEIJING (Reuters) -A European Commission investigation into Chinese electric vehicles believed to have benefited from state subsidies will have a "negative" impact on economic and trade ties, China's commerce ministry warned on Thursday.

The investigation launched on Wednesday will determine if punitive tariffs are warranted to protect EU producers from what European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described as a "flood" of cheaper Chinese EV imports.

"China believes the investigative measures proposed by the European Union are in reality to protect its own industry in the name of 'fair competition'," the commerce ministry said in a statement.

"It is a naked protectionist act that will seriously disrupt and distort the global automotive industry and supply chain, including the EU, and will have a negative impact on China-EU economic and trade relations."

The probe, initiated by the European Commission and not from any industry complaint, will further irritate a tense relationship with China partly strained by trade and investment imbalances.

In 2022, China's exports to the EU rose 8.6% to $562 billion, according to Chinese customs data. But imports from the EU slumped 7.9% to $285 billion due to weaker Chinese demand and sharply widened the EU's trade deficit with China for the second year.

(Reporting by Ryan Woo; additional reporting by Ellen Zhang; Editing by Clarence Fernandez and Jamie Freed)
A Chinese warship fires during a military drill off the Chinese coast near Fuzhou, Fujian Province

TAIPEI/BEIJING (Reuters) - Taiwan's government on Thursday rejected a plan by China to boost economic integration as a cash grab to boost the country's "deteriorating" business environment and futile bid to win Taiwanese hearts and minds to support the Communist Party.

China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, on Tuesday unveiled steps to turn coastal Fujian province which sits opposite Taiwan into a zone for integrated development.

China will take a number of "special" policy measures to improve access for Taiwanese enterprises to Fujian province across the Taiwan Strait, the Chinese state planner said on Thursday.

China will deepen integrated development of the Chinese city of Xiamen and Taiwan-controlled Kinmen Islands, including the acceleration of gas, electricity and transportation links between the two, said Cong Liang, vice chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission.

But Taiwan's China-policy making Mainland Affairs Council said this "unilateral" plan was just another attempt to win over Taiwanese people which would not work.

China is trying to promise equal treatment and economic benefits "as a cover to win over and entice our people and companies to go to the mainland and integrate into its systems, regulations and norms, to accept the Communist Party's leadership", it said.

"This is totally wishful thinking."

China is suffering from economic problems, systemic risks in its financial system and a "deteriorating business environment", it added.

"This is obviously an attempt to attract Taiwanese funds and talents to mainland China to boost its internal economy."

China has long offered Taiwan a choice between two pathways - peace and prosperity or war and decline.

China's air force entered Taiwan's air defence zone again on Thursday in what the democratically governed island says constitutes regular harassment.

Taiwan's democratically-elected government says only the island's people can decide their future.

China supports the idea of allowing Kinmen, located adjacent to Xiamen despite being controlled by Taiwan, access to Xiamen's new airport, Cong said at a news conference.

He added that Beijing also supports new energy cooperation between Taiwan, which it regards as a Chinese province, and Ningde, a Fujian city north of Xiamen.

Cong, speaking at a news conference in Beijing, said opening up of an experimental development zone in Pingtan, China's closest point to the main Taiwan island, will be expedited.

China also aims to build a cross-strait high-speed railway "at an early date", he said, plans which Beijing has previously announced and Taipei has also previously rejected.

Shares of some Fujian companies gained on Thursday, against a relatively flat broader market. Strait Innovation Internet Co and Zhongfu Straits Pingtan Development Co, both based in Pingtan, closed up more than 2%.

(Reporting by Ryan Woo, Ethan Wang and Jason Xue, and Ben Blanchard in Taipei; Editing by Jacqueline Wong & Simon Cameron-Moore)
[Source]

China on Tuesday unveiled a plan to develop its coastal province of Fujian in collaboration with Taiwan, a move aimed at deepening integrated development and advancing peaceful reunification, according to state media.

Details: The plan came in a directive issued by the Chinese Communist Partys Central Committee and the State Council on Tuesday. Key points include encouraging Taiwanese firms in Fujian to list on Chinese stock exchanges, supporting cross-strait capital cooperation and creating a more relaxed environment for cross-strait travel, as per Reuters.

The directive also aims to attract Taiwanese students and workers to live in Fujian, which is the closest Chinese province to the self-governed island. The two jurisdictions are known to share cultural similarities, as many Taiwanese happen to be descendants of Fujian immigrants, CNN noted.

The big picture: Ultimately, the plan is aimed at deepening cross-strait integrated development in all fields and advancing the peaceful reunification of the motherland, state-run China Daily noted.

More from NextShark: Paghahanap kay Maura: The Washington Post releases first-ever story in Filipino

Meanwhile, observers knowledgeable about the Taiwan question said the document is equivalent to outlining the future development blueprint of Taiwan island, which is expected to gain a broader driving force and development prospects by integrating with Fujian, according to Global Times, another state-run outlet.

Meanwhile: The directive comes as China ramps up military exercises near Taiwans waters. On Monday, Beijing sent a carrier strike group past Taiwans southern tip into the Pacific Ocean, along with dozens of warplanes. Eight warships and 36 more warplane sorties were reportedly spotted in the next two days. Analysts believe the directive and military display signaled a choice between peaceful reunification and military violence, according to the Guardian.

More from NextShark: Trump Administration Declares China Committed Genocide Against Uyghurs in Final Act

More from NextShark: More Younger South Asian Women Are Diagnosed With Aggressive Forms of Breast Cancer, Study Finds

Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark!

Torrance Police Identify Ultra Karen, Asks Public for Help in Locating
China's Tianzhou 5 cargo vessel has completed its tasks and met its fiery fate.

The 35-foot-long (10.6 meters) cargo spacecraft launched on Nov. 12, 2022, and docked with China's Tiangong space station just 2 hours and 7 minutes later, marking a new world record for rendezvous and docking with a space station.

The 29,760-pound (13,500 kilograms) spacecraft carried supplies for three astronauts on the Shenzhou 15 mission, experiments and materials, and propellant to keep Tiangong in its intended orbit.

Related: See latest configuration of China's Tiangong space station in stunning new video

a white space capsule undocks from space station with the blackness of space in the background.

Having completed its tasks, Tianzhou 5 was undocked from Tiangong early on Monday (Sept. 11), according to China's human spaceflight agency, CMSA. A controlled deorbiting over the South Pacific  an area often used by countries for deorbiting spacecraft due to its remoteness  took place Tuesday (Sept. 12), with Tianzhou 5 reentering at 0113 GMT (9:13 a.m. Beijing time), CMSA stated .

Most of the spacecraft likely burned up during its high-speed reentry into Earth's atmosphere , with some components surviving and falling into the ocean.

RELATED STORIES:

 China launches 3 astronauts to Tiangong space station on Shenzhou 16 spacecraft (video)

 China's space program: Latest news and photos

 China's Shenzhou 15 capsule lands safely with 3 Tiangong space station astronauts (video)

Tianzhou 5 was the fourth supply mission to Tiangong. In May it separated from the space station, spending 33 days in independent flight mode before re-docking with Tiangong once the Shenzhou 15 spacecraft had departed for Earth.

The Tianzhou 6 spacecraft remains docked at the three-module Tiangong orbit outpost, along with the Shenzhou 16 spacecraft.

China plans to launch Tianzhou spacecraft every eight months as part of plans to keep Tiangong constantly occupied for at least 10 years.
General Kenneth S. Wilsbach, the head of Pacific Air Forces, has offered new comments regarding Chinas growing fleet of J-20 stealth fighters . Compared to the capabilities of the U.S., and those of its allies and partners, the general says that the J-20 does not constitute a "dominating aircraft at this point"  a statement which is broadly in line with insights he made on the type last year.

Wilsbachs remarks were given at the 2023 iteration of the Air & Space Forces Association's annual symposium ongoing just outside of Washington, D.C., which The War Zone is attending. The only operational stealth fighter within the People's Liberation Army (PLA), the J-20 first flew in 2011. Precisely how many of the type have been produced since that time remains unclear, although best available estimates suggest somewhere in the region of 160-200 airframes .

Under Secretary of the Air Force Gina Ortiz Jones and Gen. Ken Wilsbach, Pacific Air Forces commander, participate in a panel called Preparing for Global Competition during the 2022 Air and Space Forces Associations Air, Space and Cyber Conference in National Harbor, Maryland, September 19, 2022. U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nick Wilson

"I dont think that its a dominating aircraft at this point, compared to what we have [in terms of stealthy F-22 Raptors and F-35 Lightnings ]," Wilsbach highlighted. "Theyve done some good copying pretty much most of the technology from that airplane [the J-20] was stolen from the U.S."

Chinese J-20s on the runway. PLAAF

Wilsbach was unequivocal in his conviction that the capabilities of U.S. aircraft, combined with those of allies and partners, could counter any potential threat from J-20s. This multi-national coalition of partners, which regularly trains with high-threat scenarios in mind, would prove extremely difficult for any Chinese aircraft to counter, according to the general.

"What I will tell you is if you compare just aircraft to aircraft, you take the training that our people [U.S. Air Force] get. Interoperability with [U.S.] allies and partners the Chinese [are] probably still at a pretty big disadvantage because of the way we train, especially with [our] Korean allies and partners."

"[For the Chinese] a fight that would be China versus us [the U.S.]... that makes their math pretty easy, but if you make it China versus the U.S. plus the other countries their math gets pretty hard to do When I think about some of the recent exercises that we've done together with our allies and partners like Talisman Sabre , and Northern Edge , [and] Valiant Shield earlier, you know, there's some extremely high-end exercises that are happening. In the past, when we've done some of those large coalition-type exercises the level of complexity is reduced, so that everybody can participate. We're not doing that. We're making it a high-end, if you want to play you show up and you execute."

"And so I've used the example of last year, in [exercise] Pitch Black  we had almost 20 nations participating in a night[time], high-end surface-to-air missile take-down  It was super complex, and everybody that was playing, which may surprise some of you some of the nations that were playing in the exercise, but it was really well done and well executed. And we're seeing that exercise after exercise."

Two Chengdu J-20s at Airshow China 2016. Alert5 via Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA-4.0

Wilsbach was also pressed on the potential threat J-20s could pose for Taiwanese forces at the symposium, and how Taiwan would defend itself, if China were to conduct a military intervention across the Taiwan Strait. U.S. military officials have suggested that the PLA may be in a position to successfully execute a cross-strait intervention by 2027, if not sooner . For Wilsbach, the Chinese threat against Taiwan shouldnt be pigeonholed to the J-20:

"They [Taiwan] have to have systems to be able to [prevent] the J-20 By the way, the J-20 is limited in my view to Taiwan. What is a major threat is the other aircraft that can come in and drop, draw their weapons on Taiwan, you know like their H-6 bombers , and then not to mention all the ballistic missiles and cruise missiles . So, you know, if I was Taiwan, I wouldn't be overly concerned with the J-20 at this point they need to be concerned about it, but there's a lot of other things that they also need to defend themselves against to be that tough target we spoke about earlier." That is quite the statement as Taiwans most advanced fighter is the F-16V , with additional new-build Vipers on the way . Other upgrades are in play for the other fighters in its inventory. The islands ever-evolving ground and sea-based integrated air defenses are also a factor here.

As Wilsbach himself indicated, his most recent assessment of the J-20 is broadly in line with the comments he made at the 2022 iteration of the Air & Space Forces Association's annual symposium. At that event, the general noted how J-20s "werent anything to lose a lot of sleep over," but that, "Certainly, we're watching them [China] closely and seeing how they operate them." This viewpoint was supported by Air Force Chief of Staff General Charles Q. Brown, who was also speaking at the 2022 symposium: "Well, I'm like General Wilsbach [The J-20 is] not something to lose a lot of sleep over, but I'm gonna pay attention to it."

Two J-20s break formation, November 2018. emperornie via Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA-2.0

It should also be noted that Wilsbach has cited concerns with other Chinese aircraft in discussions on the J-20 in the past, too, including long-range command and control capabilities such as the KJ-500 airborne early warning and control aircraft. As weve noted previously , KJ-500s are regularly used to support combat aircraft flying sorties around Taiwan . In general, China has rapidly expanded its airborne early warning and control aircraft fleet while the U.S. has decreased its own, although the addition of the E-7 is now on the horizon.

If senior U.S. Air Force officials remain only moderately concerned by the rise of Chinas J-20s, this likely has much to do with the capabilities that service will leverage in the not-too-distant future. Currently, the Air Force is developing various air combat capabilities under the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) framework. This includes work on a sixth-generation crewed combat aircraft, various tiers of uncrewed platforms , as well as new sensors, weapons, and battle management systems. Lockheed Martin and Boeing are currently competing for the crewed combat aircraft contract, with Northrop Grumman having recently removed itself from the running . The Air Force hopes to pick a winner in 2024. Older 4th generation fighters are being reduced in numbers, but are also receiving critical upgrades and new ones with unique capabilities  the F-15EX  are being added to the fleet, as well. Meanwhile, the F-22 and F-35 fleets are the tip of the spear of the USAFs tactical aviation roster.

Lockheed's crewed component of NGAD. Lockheed Martin

With that said, the recent comments from Wilsbach clearly reinstate confidence that the U.S., alongside its partners and allies, retain the technological advantage over Chinas current fighter aircraft designs.

Contact the author: oliver@thewarzone.com
BEIJING (Reuters) - China's Premier Li Qiang will attend the China-ASEAN expo in Nanning City, Guangxi on Sept. 17, the foreign ministry said on Thursday.

This year is the 20th anniversary of the expo, which is a key platform to deepen cooperation and promote trade investment liberalisation, spokesperson Mao Ning told a regular press briefing.

"China is willing to work with all parties to further implement the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership," Mao said, referring to a free trade agreement among Asia-Pacific nations.

(Reporting by Beijing newsroom; Editing by Jason Neely and Jacqueline Wong)
Royal Navy carriers Queen Elizabeth and Prince of Wales in Portsmouth harbour. The big ships do not have enough planes and are unready to face the Chinese navy - Christopher Pledger

On Monday, the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong and her escorts exited the South China Sea south of Taiwan out into the Western Pacific. Eight more Peoples Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) warships sortied past Taiwan to the north, via the Miyako Strait. Altogether the Taiwanese government counted 20 Chinese warships in the waters around it on Tuesday, and many of these are moving to join up with the Shandong group as this article is written.

Its the largest carrier group exercise by China seen to date  if it is an exercise.

In fact China would probably see this an operation not an exercise, though probably not a full blown combat op  not this time, anyway. Its a piece of sabre-rattling intended as a response to several recent US-led manoeuvres with other nations in the region. From the Chinese point of view those came to a head last week with a transit of the Taiwan Strait by a US destroyer and a Canadian frigate, exercising their right of free navigation on the high seas under international law.

Xi Jinping doesnt much care about international law, which has been largely torn up by Vladimir Putin. China doesnt accept that Taiwan is independent, and Xi doesnt like the fact that it is a strong industrial democracy which makes much of the worlds supply of microchips. He isnt pleased that Taiwan makes extensive use of Western-controlled technology in doing this, which nowadays limits the supply of chips to Chinese industry. Not only the US but Britain is particularly involved here, due to the popularity of chip designs licenced from Cambridge-based Arm. The UK makes a lot of money on Taiwanese-fabricated chips.

China isnt ready to invade Taiwan. Chinese missile and air forces are not yet strong enough to suppress those of Taiwan and make the Strait safe for invasion troops to get across. They certainly arent ready to face the US forces in the region. And quite aside from military matters, Chinas already tottering economy is totally dependent on iron ore from Australia, and there is no realistic alternative supplier today. Xi cannot yet make any move that might force Canberra to cut off that vital trade.

But the Chinese navy has been the biggest in the world for a few years now by count of warships, if not by tonnage or firepower. The Shandong and her group are to the east of Taiwan, and Chinese warships more or less surround the island at the moment.

Taiwan itself may not be in peril, but people in the shipping industry whose business depends on moving all those microchips and other vital cargoes to and from Taiwan will be watching the situation very closely this week. A blockade of Taiwans sea trade is well within the PLANs capabilities, much as it might be against international law.

A Taiwanese warship shadows Chinese carrier Shandong (left) earlier this week

But not to worry! We need not fear that yet again it will be up to the USA to make sure all is well. Last Friday, the Carrier Strike Group of the Royal Navy put to sea on its first major deployment since 2021, led by the carrier Queen Elizabeth.

It is great to see HMS Queen Elizabeth deploying once again to exercise and operate with our allies and partners, demonstrating our commitment to maintaining free and open use of the oceans for all, commented Admiral Sir Ben Key, First Sea Lord.

Back in 2021, the Big Lizzie deployed to the Far East and into the South China Sea, though she didnt transit the Taiwan Strait. The British carrier is a big ship of 65,000 tonnes, built to carry a strong force of 36 combat jets and four radar aircraft. The radar aircraft are vital, as they permit the task force to see beyond the horizon and detect any incoming threats while they are still far off enough to be intercepted: the Royal Navy learned this lesson at a terrible, bloody price in the Falklands. Up to 60 aircraft can be carried in some circumstances.

There was some carping back in 2021, however. One criticism of the Lizzie is that she has no catapults, and thus cannot operate fully capable jets. In fact the only plane she can operate is the jump jet B version of the F-35. This is not as good as other F-35s, or other combat jets generally, because it is burdened by its heavy, bulky vertical-thrust equipment. This means that it cannot carry as much fuel or weaponry as a normal combat jet. It also costs a lot more to buy and to fly.

In fact it costs so much that Britain, embarrassingly, had just eight jets to put aboard the Queen Elizabeth in 2021. The big ships lack of catapults also meant that high-flying, long ranging radar planes as used by the US and French navies were not an option: instead lower-flying helicopters, unable to see as far or operate as far from the mother ship, had to be employed. The Crowsnest helicopters limited capabilities didnt matter in the event, as they didnt work at all: their software kept crashing.

Still, that was two years ago. Surely the Royal Navy will be putting up a better show this time?

Not so much.

We still dont have a credible force of F-35 jumpjets. Once again, the Lizzie has gone to sea with just eight of them. Usually our carriers dont have any planes at all: during 2022, there were jets embarked aboard UK carriers on just 18 days, less than 5 per cent of the time.

Theres more. This time instead of three Crowsnest radar choppers, Queen Elizabeth will have only two, with a correspondingly low likelihood of being able to maintain a 24-hour airborne watch. The Crowsnest project finally achieved Initial Operating Capability (ie, working to some degree but not yet properly) in July this year. Full Operating Capability is expected in 2024. Or 2025.

Its fair to say that the Lizzie doesnt have even a vaguely credible, combat-worthy air group aboard, then. The Shandong, built to a 1980s Soviet design, has her problems too  she doesnt have catapults either, meaning that her J-15 jets cant get airborne with full combat loads. But at least China can put a strong force of planes aboard the Shandong: and, crucially, Chinas naval jets can refuel each other in mid-air, yet another vital capability that Britain doesnt have and one which hugely increases a carriers operational reach and effectiveness.

If the two carriers were ever to fight, things might go very badly for the British ship.

Fortunately that doesnt seem likely to happen this year at least, because a carrier strike group needs a solid stores ship full of food, munitions etc if it is going beyond easy reach of friendly harbours. Britain only has one such ship, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Fort Victoria, whose presence allowed the 2021 deployment to take place. Shes currently laid up with only a skeleton crew, awaiting yet another round of dockyard maintenance next year (the Fort Vic has spent a significant amount of her life in maintenance).

Lacking a stores ship and with only a handful of aircraft, its clear that the Carrier Strike Group is not equipped for a real operational deployment and it is not, in fact, making one this year. The Lizzie will not go beyond the North Sea, Norwegian Sea and North Atlantic. Shell have just two British escort warships with her, though various allied ones will be attached at various points. A lot of port visits will be made. Its basically a show-the-flag cruise, in safe waters close to home.

The Ministry of Defence says this will all be sorted out in 2025: that year our other carrier, Prince of Wales, will go to the Pacific with 24 British F-35s aboard (the previous 24 for 24 promise only having been missed by one year). A proper escort group will be found, and the Fort Vic will have been fixed up for the occasion.

But the carriers will still have been built for 36 jets, not 24. Well never see one operate with a full air group  let alone both of them. Proud as the Royal Navy is that both are at sea right now, one is empty and the other is almost empty. In 2025, F-35Bs will still be expensive and feeble compared to proper catapult carrier jets. We still wont have air to air refuelling or proper radar platforms.

A quarter of the air group arrives aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth

By that time Chinas third carrier, the Fujian, is likely to be operational. She has catapults and will be able to operate fully capable jets, soon to include fifth-generation ones on current Chinese plans. In 2025, a mere eight years after their long delayed arrival in the fleet, British carriers may be more or less ready to tackle the primitive Shandong. They wont be ready to face the Fujian and her yet-more-capable, possibly nuclear powered successors.

The central blunder that has crippled British carrier capability, and with it the Royal Navy, was and still is the fact that our ships dont have catapults, as they were planned to have until 2012.

Catapult ships would have permitted us to buy cheap, powerful F-18 Hornet jets as favoured by Tom Cruise in Top Gun: Maverick. The Hornet is still the mainstay jet of the mighty US Navy and various allied nations, and will be through the 2020s. Hundreds have been made, so it is cheap to buy and operate. The Hornet can do air-to-air refuelling, too.

In time, once it became affordable, we could also have started to introduce the catapult C version of the F-35, which is much better and much cheaper than the F-35B: a fully capable fifth-generation stealth jet, in fact.

This would have saved so much money compared to what we have done  we wasted 1.6bn just on delaying the carriers build to wait, not long enough, for the F-35B to arrive  that we could easily have afforded the catapults, proper radar planes, plenty of jets, stores ships and still have made a saving compared to what we actually did.

Despite desperate attempts by the bungling Whitehall mandarins responsible for the no-catapults decision to claim they got it right, the navy has now openly stated that it needs to put catapults on the carriers: of course it does. The ships were always designed so that they could have catapults added, not only during their building, but at any point in their 50 year service lives: this was clearly specified in writing by the builders, the government and the navy.

When HMS Queen Elizabeth gets back from her unarmed show-the-flag trip, she goes into the yard for her first major refit: a perfect time to fit her with catapults. As for finally getting a decent number of carrier planes, the F-18 Hornet production line is still open: it will close in 2025 if it gets no more orders, so there are excellent deals to be had. The US Marines would take our F-35Bs, and we could get F-35Cs in a while when their advanced capabilities might actually be needed.

Some people wouldnt like this plan, of course.

A British F-18 force would be terrible news for the outrageously expensive, not-particularly-good Eurofighter Typhoon, the primary warplane of the RAF and perhaps the greatest British defence procurement disaster ever (and thats saying something). Wed use the F-18s for everything just to save operating costs, even if we didnt need the carriers. If we had any sense wed get rid of the remaining airworthy Typhoons very soon in that scenario (a lot of ours are already permanently grounded, for all that its a fairly new aircraft).

And yes, a future force of F-35C fully capable fifth-generation stealth jets would cast serious doubt on the need for the current Tempest project, set up to repeat the colossal disaster of Typhoon all over again. But there are reasons to drop that idea anyway. The people working on Tempest are the same ones who brought you Typhoon and the even more catastrophic Tornado F3 before it. All these pointless partly-British white elephants were and are completely reliant on US and other foreign technology, so we gain no sovereignty by building them ourselves. You cant even sell a Typhoon without US (and several other nations) permission, and the same will be true of Tempest.

We should just buy American for things like this, and buy British for things we are actually good at  of which there are plenty. Earlier this summer, to give just one example, it was announced that the vaunted US Navy SEALs will soon be getting a dry mini-submarine which will finally let the frogman commandos travel secretly to their objectives without freezing half to death on the way in. Various US defence mammoths have been trying to achieve this for decades, delivering some expensive failures, but it is MSubs of Plymouth, England, that has cracked the problem at last.

Real British manufacturing doesnt need constant handouts from the Ministry of Defence budget, and does just fine without them.

Its not too late to sort this mess out.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
Chris Pine is receiving cataclysmically bad reviews for his directorial debut, which reportedly prompted walkouts during its premiere.

The Star Trek actor debuted the new film, titled Poolman, at Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on Wednesday (13 September). Pine also stars in the film, playing a pool cleaner who uncovers a water heist taking place in Los Angeles.

Reviews suggest the film is inspired by Chinatown and The Big Lebowski  but does not come close to capturing the quality of either. In fact, IndieWires Siddhant Adlakha said Poolman will likely go down as one of the worst films to play at any major festival in recent memory.

Adlakha branded the film a vanity project, writing in their review: Its the work of a filmmaker who ought to have been told no at least one or two hundred times during production. On X/Twitter, Adlakha said the abysmal and awful film prompted walkouts at the premire.

One person who walked out of their screening was journalist Rendy Jones, who wrote on social media: Chris Pines directorial debut POOLMAN started as a joke on the WONDER WOMAN 1984 set. Didnt know what the joke was and couldnt endure pass the 40-minute mark to find out. In a way two awful movies came out of WONDER WOMAN 1984

The Hollywood Reporter critic Michael Rechtshaffen said the film it a misfire that hits bottom with excruciating momentum, with both Collider and Slashfilm writing the film off as a belly flop. The latters Rafael Motamayor said the films central mystery is a convoluted mess.

Meanwhile, Eric Marchen said that Pine embarrassed himself beyond words with the film, with Ezra Cubero stating: It's actually insane how much of a spectacular failure POOLMAN is.

Pines co-stars, including Annette Bening, Danny DeVito and Jennifer Jason Leigh, are also receiving negative reviews for their roles  although several critics claim the only good thing about the film is Stephen Tobolowskys performance.

Chris Pine in abysmal new film Poolman (AGC Films)

Pine previously said that he came up with the idea of the film while working on Wonder Woman 1984, which was released in 2020. The actors other credits include Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit (2014), Hell or High Water (2016) and this years critically acclaimed Dungeons & Dragons Honour Among Thieves.

Poolman is yet to receive distribution, but will premiere in the UK at the BFI London Film Festival in October.
Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb (D) denounced new LGBTQ guidance that was implemented by the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland for its schools.

The diocese put out new policies for its 84 private religious schools that ban LGBTQ expression, restrict certain clothing and ban the use of pronouns or bathrooms that dont match a students sex on official paperwork, according to local outlet News 5 Cleveland.

As a Christian, the new Catholic Diocese of Cleveland anti-LGBTQ+ policy is a shocking betrayal of the Church teachings that have shaped who I am today, Bibb said in an Instagram post.

For me, faith is about universal love and acceptance. Instead, the new policy forces LGBTQ+ kids to hide their authentic selves and attend school in fear of persecution for who they are, he added. I extend my heartfelt solidarity to our LGBTQ+ friends and students. Rest assured that this policy, along with any expressions of hatred, doesnt go unnoticed.

The church has said the changes in policy stemmed from societal trends and were requested by church and school leadership.

The Catholic Diocese of Cleveland has taken existing guidance and practice in matters of sex, sexuality, and gender identity and developed them into a formal policy, rooted in scripture and Church teaching, to help ensure that these matters are addressed in a consistent, pastorally sound, and authentically Catholic manner across our diocesan and parish institutions and schools, the diocese said in a statement.

The statement continues to emphasize that these changes to the schools dont change that each and every person is welcome and invited to be a part of the Church.

Each one of us brings our own struggles and questions, and the Church, like Christ, meets each one of us where we are, the statement reads. It is our hope that this policy, in tandem with the pastoral and theological resources found on the dioceses website, helps each person to live more fully in the truth of their identity as a son or daughter of God who is made, body and soul, in His image.

These policies are not uncommon in religious private schools but have caused much controversy between Republican and Democratic states.

Republican-led states have moved to implement laws in public schools that dont allow students to use the bathroom or pronouns they choose. In California, the state is currently suing a conservative school board for implementing a policy that requires educators to tell parents if their child wants to use different pronouns.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
By Charlie Devereux, Antonella Cinelli and Corina Pons

VILLANUEVA DEL ARZOBISPO, Spain/ROME (Reuters) - Farmers in Spain and Italy are turning to techniques ancient and modern to safeguard production of regional favourites including olive oil and Prosecco as climate change forces them to rapidly adapt.

In the face of extreme weather that has caused billions of euros in losses in both countries, farmers in Spain are rapidly rediscovering the traditional use of crops planted between trees to protect the soil in olive groves, while Italian counterparts are harnessing technology to make best use of water resources.

Spain and Italy are the world's top producers of olive oil and but the industry is under threat from desertification and drought, with Madrid saying more than a fifth of its land is at high risk of becoming infertile.

Italy, renowned for wines and pasta wheat, suffered one of its most severe droughts in 70 years in 2022. This year has seen another scorching summer, punctuated by damaging hailstorms in the north, in line with scientists' predictions for climate change in the region.

The Italian farming industry is the European Union's third-largest in terms of production value, behind France and Germany but ahead of Spain, which is in fourth place.

Andrea Ronca, who grows cereals for his family's cattle farm in the province of Mantua in northern Italy, uses satellite images to track where his land is driest.

"I can adjust irrigation at any time, even from my smartphone, avoiding any wastage," says Ronca, 35.

Spanish farmer Miguel Moreno was an early adopter of so-called cover crops. He began growing grasses alongside trees almost 30 years ago to stop water draining away down the hill on his 74-hectare olive grove in the southern region of Andalusia.

His son, Angel, said that before that large cracks would form where the soil eroded.

"You had to be careful because you could fit your foot in them," he said.

Cover crops are now used on about 30% of olive groves in Spain, according to Spain's agriculture ministry, with scientists and companies expecting rapid growth in the next few years.

The changes are being driven both by European Union environmental incentives and stark realities. Spain's drought-hit olive oil production slumped to 663,000 tonnes last year, less than half the average of 1.45 million tons recorded in the previous four harvests, according to the government.

Spain's largest olive producers co-operative Dcoop said it expected a similarly low harvest for this year due to drought.

Wine output in Italy is forecast to fall 12% this year after extreme weather and fungal diseases hit vineyards, meaning Italy will lose its position as the world's largest wine producer to France.

OLD REMEDIES

Scientists say restoring cover crops such as grasses and legumes in the rows between olive trees can act as a sponge to conserve water, prevent flash floods and restore nutrients.

In the short term, the practice may reduce yields but it can increase oil quality and protect soil for future harvests, a 2019 study in the Journal of Nutrition and Plant Science found.

Spain is already a pioneer in methods to save water, used in almost every stage of olive oil production, said Gonzalo Delacamara, director of the IE Centre for Water & Climate Adaptation in Madrid.

Cover crops "function as micro-reservoirs that mean each drop of rainwater stays on the ground longer before running off, so that water is more likely to penetrate," said Emilio Gonzalez, a professor in rural engineering at the University of Cordoba.

The bare soil still seen in most of southern Spain's olive orchards was not always the norm.

Tilling and clearing vegetation became widespread with the introduction of industrial pesticides and fertilizers in the 1960s and 1970s, said Antonio Manzaneda, professor in ecology at the University of Jaen.

The European Union has a target of reducing nutrient loss by 50% by 2030. In January, it began subsidising farmers who use cover crops as part of the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

The practice can restore biodiversity including insects like the green lacewing, that in turn may help farmers control pests such as the olive fruit fly and the olive moth, Manzaneda said.

Olive farmer Angel said since introducing cover crops he noticed an increase in birds such as owls, blackbirds, turtle doves, hoopoes and reptiles such as the near-threatened ocellated lizard.

CONSUMER PRESSURE

Deoleo, the world's largest olive oil seller, bought 45% of its supply last year from growers who deploy sustainable practices including cover crops, Mariu Luchetti, Deoleo's global marketing director and head of sustainability, said in an interview.

She said the company was pushed both by customers such as Walmart in the U.S. and by regulation to buy olive oil from producers using sustainable practices.

Swiss-headquartered agrichemicals and seeds group Syngenta began offering a cover crop seed mixture in Spain this year.

Next year, it expects the practice to increase exponentially "to combat the negative effects of drought," said Luis Miranda, head of sustainable agriculture for Syngenta in Spain.

Long periods of drought followed by torrential rains are one of the main ways soil is eroded.

At Domingo Albacete's olive farm soil erosion has left rivulets of rubble and stone. He now digs barriers with heavy machinery to catch rainwater in puddles that seep into the earth instead of stripping topsoil.

Ecology professor Manzaneda is also coordinator of EU-funded project SOIL O-LIVE and is testing methods for coaxing Albacete's degraded earth back to health.

In one, Manzaneda is applying charcoal made in an oxygen vacuum, a method used by pre-Columbian Indigenous people in the Amazon that tackles soil acidity and improves water and nutrient retention.

ITALY TURNS TO TECH

In Italy, where practices like cover crops were already widespread, more farmers are now pioneering digital technology to give them an edge, especially in water conservation.

The extreme weather in 2022 caused damages estimated at 6 billion euros to farming, according to Italy's main farmers' lobby Coldiretti.

The share of land farmed using digital tools rose to 8% in 2022, from 6% the year before, while spending rose to 2.1 billion euros, from just 100 million euros in 2017, according to the Smart AgriFood Observatory of the Milan Polytechnic and the University of Brescia.

The change took time but has been driven by the need to save water in an increasingly dry country, said Professor Marco Trevisan, Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences at the Catholic University of Piacenza, and has been helped by a flowering of agri-tech start-ups.

"We were late because we were used to having lots of water at our disposal, especially in the north [of Italy]," he said.

Winemakers are among those adjusting to the new weather conditions.

"We are in the hills, where there is little water," says Simone Rech, who produces about 250,000 bottles a year mainly of Prosecco sparkling wine, in the province of Treviso, not far from Venice.

In Rech's vineyard, sensors now monitor the air and soil to gauge factors such as temperature and evaporation from the leaves, measures he says helped the vineyard withstand last year's drought. Rainwater and waste water from washing the cellar is collected, purified and reused.

Similar initiatives are being adopted by Catalonia's Cava producers in northern Spain.

On Italy's southern island of Sicily, Sebastiano Conti has helped reintroduce rice cultivation without flooding fields, relying on technology to create gentle slopes which can withstand the island's fierce climate.

"With laser-guided machines, we created millimetric inclines, which together with the type of soil we have allow us to grow rice using very little water," he said.

(Reporting by Charlie Devereux, Antonella Cinelli and Corina Pons; Writing by Keith Weir and Charlie Devereux; Editing by Frank Jack Daniel)
CNN commentator Van Jones reacted to Sen. Mitt Romney s (R-Utah) retirement announcement Wednesday, asking the senator, Please dont go, in the wake of what he called the deterioration within the Republican party.

Pointing to the Democrats opposition of Romney during the 2012 election while on CNNs The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer , Jones said, We fought like dogs to stop him from winning and 10 years later, Im  Please dont go man, we need you to stick around.

It gives you a sense of how much the Republican party has changed, I would say deteriorated, Jones continued. And also, it gives you a sense that  if you stick around long enough, people start to recognize  you could have a different politics of the head.

Romney, 76, announced earlier Wednesday he will retire from the Senate at the end of his term, saying it is time for a new group of political leaders to step in. Romney pointed to his last 25 years in public service, including a term as governor of Massachusetts, six years representing Utah in the Senate and an unsuccessful run against former President Obama in the 2012 presidential election.

Ten years ago, give or take, he was running against Barack Obama, we hated this guy, we thought this guy was terrible, Jones said on CNNs The Situation Room. We thought he was a blow-dried, rich dude out of touch.

Jones expressed his change in beliefs about the Utah senator, calling him a worthy opponent of Obama.

This guy cares about America, he cares about the principles of values, Jones said. He was a worthy opponent of President Obama and I cant believe 10 years later, Im on CNN begging the guy not to go, but that just shows you how much things have changed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
COFFEE COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN)  A Coffee County man has been arrested for his alleged role during the breach of the United States Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

The United States Attorneys Office of the District of Columbia said 56-year-old Allan Jennings of Hillsboro, has been charged with a felony offense of civil disorder and several misdemeanor offenses, including entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds, and destruction of government property.

East TN man who threw flagpole at police during Jan. 6 riot gets 6+ years in prison

Jennings was arrested on Tuesday, Sept. 12, in Hillsboro and made his initial court appearance in the Eastern District of Tennessee.

According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, Jennings attended the Stop the Steal rally near the Washington Monument and later walked with a large crowd down Constitution Avenue toward the Capitol.

Authorities identified Jennings after reviewing open-source video, body-worn camera footage, and U.S Capitol Police closed circuit television security video (CCTV) that showed a crowd of rioters gathers at the Lower West Terrace Tunnel.

CCTV footage showed Jennings was among the first three rioters to go into the Tunnel from the Lower West Terrace in pursuit of retreating police officers. Jennings reportedly held up his phone as he entered the Tunnel and was apparently filming his and the other rioters progress inside.

Nashville Zip Tie Guy, his mom sentenced for Capitol riot roles

After entering the Tunnel, Jennings allegedly ran ahead of all the other rioters toward the first set of glass doors inside the Tunnel. More rioters then joined in pushing forward as Jennings, who was still holding up his phone, looked through the glass at the police officers as rioters poured into the Tunnel behind him.

Body-worn camera footage from one of the officers showed Jennings pull a weapon out of his pocket. The officer wearing the body camera identified the item as a knife with a glass breaking end. Jennings then allegedly used the weapon to shatter the glass.

Allan Jennings (Source: U.S. Department of Justice)

Allan Jennings (Source: U.S. Department of Justice)

Allan Jennings (Source: U.S. Department of Justice)

Allan Jennings (Source: U.S. Department of Justice)

Once the glass door was shattered, rioters moved through the broken set of doors and toward another set of glass doors. As rioters moved past Jennings, he looked at his hand, which appeared to be injured from shattering the first glass door, according to documents.

Moments later, Jennings made his way back toward the front of the mob and allegedly put his hands on an officers riot shield and pointed at officers. Jennings later positioned himself behind some rioters to help push them against the officers.

He then got out of the Tunnel and returned to the Lower West Terrace.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

Officials said in the 32 months since the events on Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,100 people have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including nearly 400 people charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, which is a felony crime.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit a tip by clicking here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
Cyber specialists of the Security Service of Ukraine have detained a woman who was spying for Russian MP Igor Kastyukevich. He was appointed by the Kremlin as one of the handlers of the temporarily occupied part of Kherson Oblast, and the woman helped to adjust Russian attacks on the city.

Source: Security Service of Ukraine on Telegram

Quote: "The offender was a local resident who subscribed to one of the social media accounts of a Russian MP during the seizure of the regional centre. After the liberation of the city, she remotely offered him her help in adjusting enemy attacks on local facilities of the Ukrainian Defence Forces."

Details: The woman walked the streets, recorded the locations of Ukrainian units, and sent the information to Kastyukevichs channel.

The Security Service of Ukraine said that in this way, the woman adjusted the Russian strike on the city with the use of multiple-launch rocket systems this summer.

She was detained while trying to pass on new intelligence to the Russian MP.

During the search, a mobile phone with evidence of sabotage activities in favour of Russia was seized from the detainee.

She was served with a notice of suspicion under Art. 114-2-3 of the Criminal Code (unauthorised dissemination of information on the supply, movement of weapons, armaments and ammunition to Ukraine; movement, relocation or deployment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine).

The woman is in custody and faces up to 12 years in prison.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
ORLANDO, Fla. -- Valencia College students short of money and worried they cannot afford food can now shop for free at a new, on-campus food pantry designed to look like a small store and offer stigma-free shopping.

The VCentials store replaces a smaller, closet-style pantry on Valencias west Orange County campus. It aims to deal with a sobering statistic: In a 2021 survey, 40% of Valencias students reported struggling to afford the food they needed.

The new store, funded with a nearly $400,000 grant from Florida Blue, is a dream come true, said Valencia President Kathleen Plinske, as the college hosted the facilitys official opening Tuesday.

One of our big ideas is anyone can learn anything under the right conditions, Plinske said.

But students who are hungry, or worried about how to pay for groceries, arent in the right condition to maximize their academic success, she said.

After they leave public high schools, she added, many of Valencias students feel the loss of the free meals their school district provided. In high school, I got lunch, one student wrote on the food survey, Plinske said.

Valencia has run food pantries  stocked by donations from Valencia faculty, staff and students  on its campuses for 11 years, but money from the insurance giants charitable foundation allowed it to create the bigger VCentials store, and to make plans for similar facilities at the colleges east Orange and Osceola County campuses, too.

Second Harvest Food Bank is providing food to the college for VCentials, some at a reduced cost and some for free. Tuesday, the store was stocked with cereal and snacks, cans of beans and soups, packages of rice and pasta, fresh fruit and vegetables and even chicken and ground beef in a freezer case.

Hygiene products were available, too. Students can take 10 items a day and can order online and pick up their supplies the next day, if they want.

Its an amazing opportunity for the school, said Andres Perez, present of Valencias student government association. This is an upgrade.

Students used the old pantry, Perez said, but they will likely appreciate the new one, with its easily accessible location in a main building on campus and a design that tries to tackle that stigma about food pantries.

It gives off a more comforting air, agreed Thomas Jarrett, another Valencia student who has worked at the food pantry on Valencias east campus.

The college picked the name VCentials after surveying students who said calling it a pantry was off-putting. Its design, including red plastic shopping baskets, mimics that of commercial stores.

Rebecca Daguindeau, another student, thinks the new pantry will help classmates who just need basic necessities to get through their day, or maybe didnt eat breakfast and find themselves hungry as a long day stretches on. I think its really important, she said.

Many students work, take classes on more than one Valencia campus and worry about the cost of gas and other bills, she added.

Karen Cruz-Garcia agreed. As a student, Im pretty sure I will use it, she said.

Absolutely, Daguindeau said.

Valencia expects about 500 students a month to use VCentials on its west campus, said Lesley Frederick, the colleges vice president for student affairs.

Valencias students lead complex lives, Frederick added, with many juggling school, jobs and family responsibilities. About half are the first in their families to attend college and nearly 40% qualify for federal Pell grants, reserved for the lowest-income college students, Valencia data shows.

Inside, the VCentials store, Valencia also plans to provide a staff member who can offer referrals to other agencies, if students need help with childcare or counseling for mental health, for example.

Florida Blues donation to the Valencia store was part of the $3.73 million it donated to 10 community organizations last year. Valencias project fit with its effort to make healthy food more accessible and affordable, the Florida Blue Foundation said.

Pat Geraghty, president and CEO of Florida Blue, the states Blue Cross Blue Shield firm, said company leaders want it to be not just an insurance company but a health solutions company.

The support for the food pantry will be ongoing. This is a big day, Geraghty added.
Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) took aim at Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) on Thursday for slowing down passage of the chambers first batch of government funding bills.

Collins, top Republican on the Senate Appropriations Committee, said Johnson was holding up consideration of the amendments from both sides for a funding package leaders hope to pass in the coming days.

The senator from Wisconsin has repeatedly said, and I agree with him, that we should not end up with an omnibus bill, a 4,000-page bill at the end of the year with little consideration, largely drafted by a small group of people, Collins said on the floor Thursday.

So, why is the senator from Wisconsin objecting to proceeding to three appropriations bills that were reported unanimously, unanimously, each one of them by the Senate Appropriations Committee, after a great deal of work? she said. Furthermore, the senator is objecting to Republican amendments being offered to this package.

Senators say the conservative was holding up consideration of the funding package because he wanted the three bills included to be considered separately.

The Senate has been broken as long as I have served. The level of dysfunction is grotesque, Johnson told The Hill in a statement. We are $33 trillion in debt, and this year the deficit will exceed $1.7 trillion, and we will spend $1.9 trillion more than we spent in FY2019.

Spending is completely out-of-control, and putting a minibus on the floor 3 weeks before the end of the fiscal year can hardly be called regular order, he said.

The Senate is moving whats called a minibus, combining the Agriculture-Food and Drug Administration, Military Construction-Veteran Affairs and Transportation-Department of Housing and Urban Development funding measures.

Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) also offered support to Johnson.

There are only seven to 10 of us that are truly fiscal conservatives here that dont want to keep borrowing money from future generations, and Ron is one of them, he said.

So, weve all got that same goal in mind, Braun said.

Other Republicans also say they prefer the minibus package be split up, with Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) arguing its not a full robust amendment process.

But Collins and other GOP negotiators say they dont see much of a difference, while noting the three bills under consideration passed out of committee with unanimous support from both sides.

I think that ignores the reality that each of the 12 bills was reported separately independently, Collins told reporters after her floor remarks. And in the case of the first three, were bringing to the floor unanimously by the Senate Appropriations Committee.

The fact is, well take plenty of time on the three bills, and were going to have a robust amendment process. So what difference does it make? she asked. We dont have time to take each bill individually to the floor or were going to end up with either an omnibus, a government shutdown or a yearlong continuing resolution, which would fund programs that shouldnt be funded anymore and prevent new programs from starting up.

Updated at 6:23 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Columbus police officer Demetris Ortega, center, stands with his defense attorneys, Mark Collins and Kaitlyn Stephens, Thursday in Franklin County Common Pleas Court. Ortega pleaded guilty to not stopping after a crash and misdemeanor drunken driving in an April 2022 hit-and-run crash that killed Naimo Mahdi Abdirahman, 27, on Morse Road.

A Columbus police officer who prosecutors alleged was drunk and behind the wheel when a 27-year-old woman was hit and killed in April 2022 admitted to drinking heavily before the fatal crash.

Demetris Ortega, 50, of the South Side, pleaded guilty Thursday to charges of not stopping after a crash and misdemeanor drunken driving Thursday morning before Franklin County Common Pleas Judge Carl Aveni.

The April indictment was in connection with the crash, which was reported around 2:40 a.m. April 20, 2022, and killed Naimo Mahdi Abdirahaman, 27, who was crossing Morse Road when she was hit.

Assistant Franklin County Prosecutor Jeff Zezech said Thursday that detectives had little to go on while investigating, as no camera footage from nearby businesses or witnesses to the crash itself were able to be identified.

Zezech said the crash, which happened on Morse Road near Walford Street, in the Northland area, was at an intersection with marked crosswalks and a 45 mph speed limit.

About five hours after the crash, Zezech said police got a call about a suspicious vehicle parked at a home a few miles away. That vehicle, a Kia Sorento registered to Ortega, had a missing wheel and a dent and blood on the hood.

Assistant Franklin County Prosecutor Jeff Zezech, left, speaks while Columbus police officer Demetris Ortega stands with his defense attorneys, Mark Collins and Kaitlyn Stephens, during a plea hearing Thursday in Franklin County Common Pleas Court.

Zezech said debris from the crash scene matched the Sorento "like puzzle pieces," and investigators determined the blood was Abdirahaman's.

Police determine that Ortega went to Fitzwilly's Pub, on East Dublin-Granville Road, around 11:15 p.m. the day before the crash. Ortega was seen on the pub's camera system drinking multiple beers and taking several shots, as well as ordering alcohol for others.

Ortega was "visibily stumbling" as he walked out to his car, Zezech said the video showed.

Data obtained from the Kia Sorento showed the SUV left the bar and went a few minutes before the crash.

The SUV's data showed it was traveling between 51 and 56 mph before the crash, slowing from 56.5 mph to about 53 mph, without braking, at the crash site. The data from the SUV also showed it continuing to where it was later found, Zezech said.

Because of the time between the crash and when Ortega's vehicle was found, it was not possible for a blood test or field sobriety tests to determine Ortega's blood alcohol level, Zezech said. Investigators also were unable to determine who was at fault for the crash, which is why vehicular homicide charges weren't filed.

Zezech said during an interview that Ortega admitted to "blacking out" from drinking the night of the crash and "self-rated his intoxication at a nine out of 10."

Abdirahaman's family said she was born in a Somali refugee camp in Kenya in January 1995 and came to the U.S. as a child. She became an American citizen, graduated from Columbus City Schools' Centennial High School and attended Columbus State Community College.

She also had a young son, who was 2 when his mother was killed, and has been living with family to help care for him.

Abdirahaman's family has expressed frustration with how Columbus police handled the investigation and a lack of transparency for the nearly 12 months before the indictment. They also filed a lawsuit against Ortega, which remains pending.

Abdirahaman's family was not at Thursday's plea hearing.

As of Thursday morning, Ortega was still listed as an active police officer with the Columbus Division of Police. An investigation after the criminal case concludes will determine whether Ortega, who was off-duty at the time of the crash, violated any policies or procedures.

Ortega faces up to three years in prison, as well as a multi-year driver's license suspension. His sentencing is scheduled to take place on Nov. 3.

bbruner@dispatch.com

@bethany_bruner

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus police officer admits to drinking before fatal hit-skip crash
President Biden talks with California Gov. Gavin Newsom in 2021 in Mather, Calif. (Associated Press)

Most of us have learned not to swallow everything a politician says. They play too many word games. Republicans and Democrats alike.

Thats especially true with politicians who duck and slide when asked whether they aspire to higher office. They try to leave the option open so theyll be mentioned  without making themselves targets.

That said, its past time for us  especially in the news media  to accept what Gov. Gavin Newsom says about his presidential aspiration. Stop fantasizing about a potential Newsom race for the White House.

Californias Democratic governor has repeatedly insisted:





He is not running for president in 2024.

The telegenic 55-year-old wont run even if aging President Biden, 80, does not. But Biden is running, so that scenario is moot.

If Biden did drop out unexpectedly, Newsom would defer to his old San Francisco ally, Vice President Kamala Harris, as the next Democratic standard-bearer. Hed never run against her.

What about 2028? Conventional wisdom is that Newsom is plotting for that presidential election because, unless Biden is replaced in the White House by another Democrat before then, the partys nomination will be wide open.



But Im highly skeptical Newsom is even attracted to a 2028 race.

Why? Mainly because of Newsoms struggles his entire life with dyslexia. Its my guess  based on observing him and talking with Newsom insiders  that he views the presidency with some trepidation.

Read more: Gavin Newsom describes struggling with dyslexia as he governs California through crisis

Dyslexia limits reading ability and affects areas of the brain that process language, according to the Mayo Clinic.

It certainly doesnt mean that someone with dyslexia isnt fit to be president. A few presidents have been afflicted with it, starting with George Washington. Also Thomas Jefferson, who authored the Declaration of Independence.

Another dyslexia sufferer was physicist Albert Einstein, whose name is synonymous with the word genius.

So one can adapt, as Newsom has. But he has struggled.

I found out [about dyslexia] when I was in the fifth grade, Newsom told me shortly after being inaugurated as governor in 2019. My mother struggled with whether to tell me about it. She didnt want me to have an excuse. She wanted me to work hard.

With screening and trained help, he said, a child can work around the disorder and later in life you find other strengths.

Newsom has difficulty reading, especially speeches off teleprompters.

In a 2021 interview with Times reporter Taryn Luna, Newsom acknowledged: Im mesmerized by the politicians that are literally handed a script or talking points from an advisor  and theyre able to go up there and just read off the script beautifully."

For Newsom, a five-minute speech may require six hours of preparation and research, which is why he appears so good at talking off the cuff. Theres nothing off the cuff about it.

He told Luna: Its spelling, writing and just deep struggles reading  and the reading is comprehension, because I can read two chapters and literally be daydreaming. And Ive read every word and not remember one damn thing unless Im underlining it.

Newsom underlines and circles a lot and summarizes reams of subject matter onto yellow cards.

Early in his political career, Newsom said, I realized Im just gonna outwork everybody.

Its laborious. But imagine him trying to handle a presidents sweeping, worldwide portfolio  and constant speechmaking demands  while adjusting for dyslexia, even with a huge staff.

I envision Newsom shuddering at the thought.

Why do I think that? Mainly because of all the effort he has gone to the last three years to avoid giving a traditional, annual State of the State address to a joint session of the Legislature. Its usually the most festive day of the year in the Capitol.

But Newsom feels he cant handle the teleprompter without hours of practice. And he doesnt like doing that in a strange environment, the Assembly chamber.

In 2021, he gave the speech in center field of an empty Dodger Stadium. It was an error widely jeered. Last year, he delivered it in the sterile state Resources Agency auditorium in Sacramento, where the governor could practice his delivery repeatedly in private. This year, he scrapped the speech entirely and went on a four-city road trip to outline his legislative agenda.

He hates giving speeches, a top aide once told me. Its anxiety-producing.

But stiffing Congress by abandoning the presidents annual State of the Union address would not play well in the nations Capitol.

None of this means Newson wouldnt  or shouldnt  run for president. But read his own words.

He said last year he had subzero interest.

Last month, Fox TV host Sean Hannity tried to coax the governor into discussing a possible 2024 presidential run.

Under any circumstances, would you get in this race? the conservative questioner asked. No, Newsom immediately replied. I think [Bidens] a man of decency and character. Im really proud of the president.

Chuck Todd, moderator of NBCs "Meet the Press," tried again Sunday. What if Biden doesnt run?

The vice president is naturally the one lined up, Newsom replied. We need to move past this notion that hes not going to run.  Theres been so much wallowing in the last few months and handwringing in this respect.

What does he tell wallowers who urge him to run? Time to move on.

Todd: Youre not plotting anything? Theres no Plan B?

Newsom: No. And perhaps theres never been more consistent words that have come out of my mouth than that.

But thats difficult for us in the news media to accept. A big state governor is a lot better copy when hes viewed as a presidential candidate.

What Newsom really wants is to be seen as a national political leader. And that goal he is achieving.





Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Hunter Biden was charged Thursday with three felonies related to lying on a 2018 application to buy a gun. But its hard not to conclude that his true offense is being the son of a president whom Republicans are hell-bent on vilifying and defeating.

The indictment largely relies on Biden's false claim that he was not using illegal drugs when he applied to purchase the firearm. In fact, he was then in the depths of the cocaine addiction that drove a series of travails that Republicans continue to weaponize against his father.

The Justice Department had previously negotiated a plea agreement with Biden that included a gun charge following some five years of investigation by David Weiss, Trumps U.S. attorney for Delaware, whom President Biden allowed to remain in office in a departure from standard procedure. Hunter Biden agreed to plead guilty to two misdemeanor tax offenses and enter a pretrial diversion under which the felony gun charge would be dropped if he stays on the straight and narrow for two years. Such agreements are a fairly common means of disposing of less serious charges.

Read more: Litman: Is the Hunter Biden plea deal really a slap on the wrist? Not remotely

The plea deal unraveled for unusual reasons having nothing to do with Biden. The parties imprudently included provisions that gave a judge legitimate misgivings about whether she was being called on to participate in a determination that Biden would not be prosecuted on other charges, assuming an executive branch function in violation of the separation of powers. The agreement was therefore taken off the table to allow for renegotiation.

But that provided an opening for a firestorm of protest on Capitol Hill from Donald Trump s allies, who railed at the supposed sweetheart deal. As I explained at the time, however, the general outlines of the agreement amounted to a sensible resolution of a case that the Justice Department could well have lost at trial .

It has since become even more obvious that all the rancor over the deal was aimed at the president himself, whom extremists in Congress, whipped up by Trump, are spoiling to impeach. The Republicans have nothing of substance to impeach Biden for, so they are straining to connect him to the sins of his son with ill-founded conjecture. Trump and his supporters unhinged animus in this cause is so great that the FBI set up a special task force to deal with the unprecedented number of threats against agents and prosecutors working on the Hunter Biden case.

The clearest sign that something really stinks here is that the charges Weiss brought are rarely pursued for their own sake. The department does bring such charges against defendants who use improperly obtained firearms to commit other crimes. And in one or two instances, prosecutors appear to have used such charges against defendants whom they knew to be particularly dangerous. But this indictment over an isolated lie by a relatively harmless firearm applicant seems to be without precedent.

So why was Weiss able to pursue charges that wouldnt normally be brought?

Read more: Calmes: Hunter Biden's problems are legitimately his dad's problems too

If Weiss were a regular prosecutor, his decisions would be subject to a supervisory structure that would enforce Justice Department policies and equal treatment of similarly situated individuals. But amid the political outcry, the U.S. attorney petitioned Atty. Gen. Merrick Garland for special counsel status  never mind that special counsels are supposed to come from outside the department. Garlands hand was effectively forced under the circumstances, and Weiss got what he asked for, along with a large measure of independence from normal procedures.

Antonin Scalia, most conservatives beau ideal of a Supreme Court justice, warned us about this.

The independent counsel  operating in an area where so little is law and so much is discretion, is intentionally cut off from the unifying influence of the Justice Department, and from the perspective that multiple responsibilities provide, the late justice wrote. How frightening it must be to have your own independent counsel and staff appointed, with nothing else to do but to investigate you until investigation is no longer worthwhile.

Although Scalias constitutional argument didnt carry the day, the policy concerns he expressed led Congress to repeal the independent counsel law. It was replaced with the special counsel structure through Justice Department regulations that were meant to be more aligned with standard policy. But peculiar political events have conspired to put Weiss in much the same insulated position as the independent counsels of yore, with the same toxic results.

As for Hunter Biden, he still has some legal cards to play. His aggressive and able counsel, Abbe Lowell, will no doubt argue that the charges amount to an unlawful vindictive prosecution. And recent appellate court rulings suggesting that even felons retain their 2nd Amendment rights could cast a constitutional shadow on at least one of the gun charges.

But given that these arguments are relative long shots for Biden, it's likely he will have to go to trial on charges that are seldom brought in the middle of a presidential contest between his father and Trump. That will give radical Republicans in Congress the talking point they need to muddy the waters with respect to Trumps multiple criminal indictments. Weiss has given them just what they wanted.

Harry Litman is the host of the Talking Feds podcast. @harrylitman

If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The Richland County Sheriffs Office hopes to have by the end of the year a virtual training system that will confront deputies with immersive real time threats at familiar locations to help them make professional, split-second decisions when confronted on the job in real time.

That is how County Business Manager Andrew Keller described the computer programming and equipment that will be purchased from VirTra Inc. of Chandler, Arizona, with $192,353 in American Rescue Plan Act revenue replacement funds that were allocated Tuesday by Richland County Commissioners.

Keller told the board that selection of the VirTra system was the product of several months of due diligence by the sheriffs department in determining which of several different systems will provide the best experience for deputies.

"Its a highly rated and fully immersive training program that youre surrounded by screens, surrounded by audio, and confronted by real time threats, he said. We are confident that this is going to be a real value add for the sheriffs office. Professionalism has always been very, very important to this sheriffs administration.

A training simulator for law enforcement shows video scenarios for officers to react to in real time to train their use-of-force decision making.

According to information presented in early May, the system uses interconnected screens and a computer based image generating system to produce a training environment that deals with situational awareness, engaging moving targets and overcoming distractions. The system includes a variety of pre-produced scenarios and background content as well as software to create localized scenarios and a laser-guided system that will allow deputies to use their own weapons to put a laser pulse onto that screen during training.

Sheriffs Office Operations Capt. Jim Sweat told commissioners officials chose the VirTra system over two others, including one that the City of Mansfield is purchasing, because it will allow for training not only deputies on the street but also corrections officers.

It was the ease of being able to create our own scenarios, especially for the corrections side of the house, which, as you know, is a large portion of our employees at the sheriffs office, so its very important theyre included in this project," said Sweat.

Capt. Jim Sweat, Richland County Sheriff's Office

He said the system will be available to other law-related county operations including the dog wardens office, adult probation and juvenile court.

Sweat said the VirTra system will be installed in the sheriffs office classroom with portable screens but eventually have a dedicated space. Equipment delivery and installation is expected in the next three months with a goal of having all applicable employees through the training by the end of February.

Keller said the system will be obtained through a purchasing cooperative according to Ohio law in order to meet ARPA regulations.

Land Bank to apply for Lead Safe Ohio funding

In other business, commissioners authorized the Richland County Land Bank to be the countys agent to apply for funds from the Ohio Department of Developments Lead Safe Ohio program. The money can be used for a number of activities including lead safe building certification and lead safe renovations such as window and door replacements on buildings constructed before 1978.

Richland County has been allocated up to $1,358,000 through the program.

Land Bank Administrator Amy Hamrick told the News Journal that she is in the process of building a program and figuring out how its going to look.

We know for a fact that there are other funds and other things coming down the pike for land banks so we know thats the route were going to have to go and we just have to get it figured out," said Hamrick.

She did not specify what type of programs the local Land Bank is looking at. Since its inception, the Richland County Land Bank has concentrated on resolving problems with vacant and abandoned properties using federal and state funds and local revenue from the Mansfield Pride tax and county delinquent tax and assessment collections.

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Commissioners OK funding for Sherri's Office virtual training system
Nonprofit Solutions Oriented Addiction Response West Virginia co-founder Sarah Stone prepares items for the first-ever Appalachian Save a Life Day naloxone distribution event on Monday, Sept. 11, 2023, at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Charleston in Charleston, W.Va. (AP Photo/Leah Willingham)

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP)  An effort to destigmatize the use of overdose reversal drugs that started as a pilot in two West Virginia counties has expanded to all thirteen states in Appalachia this year.

The first-ever Appalachian Save a Life Day comes Thursday, on the heels of the approval of Narcan as drug that can be purchased over the counter for nonprescription use  a long-awaited victory towards normalizing and improving access to the decades-old, live-saving medication.

More than 30,000 doses of naxolone, or Narcan, are being distributed in 13 states. Community organizations will then offer the drug for free at convenient locations like fast food restaurants, Walmarts, health departments, churches, convenience stores and fire departments.

More than 180 counties are participating at more than 300 different sites. The events are a celebration of what advocates have been working toward for years.

In 1971, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved use of naloxone, also referred to by its brand name Narcan, to treat overdoses. However, its use was confined to paramedics and hospitals. Narcan nasal spray was first approved by the FDA in 2015 as a prescription drug, and in March, it was approved for over-the-counter sales and started being available this month at major pharmacies for a suggested price of around $50 for two doses.

It kind of gives you chills a little bit when you think about it, just because it's this huge group of people coming together  and you dont even know most of them  all because we deeply care about the same issue, said Caroline Wilson, a social worker and person in recovery who organized Save a Life Day events in West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle.

Spearheaded by the Charleston-based nonprofit Solutions-Oriented Drug Response, Save a Life Day began as a two-county pilot program in 2020 in West Virginia, expanding to 17 counties in-state in 2021. Last year, all 55 counties in the state with the nation's highest rate of opioid overdoses in the nation participated. The 2023 event has expanded to include Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

The state of West Virginia dedicated $600,000 to this year's effort. West Virginias Office of Drug Control Policy and the University of Charleston Pharmacy School have supplied naloxone for West Virginias events since its inception in 2020.

Solutions-Oriented Drug Response co-founder Sarah Stone said even in the last five years, she's seen a major shift in the way people are talking about naloxone.

I would say five years ago, people would easily say, Let people die, I would step over this person before I would offer assistance,' or my personal favorite is: We can Narcan him three times, but not the fourth  theres a limit,'" she said. "And you just dont hear those things anymore, or not often.

Braden Hopkins, a 20-year-old student at the University of Alabama, has been pushing for more naloxone and fentanyl test strip training and access within Greek life and other organizations. She's invited medical professionals to her sorority for training and wants to see it normalized to the point where at least one person in every Greek life house is Narcan-trained.

Hopkins, who is vice president of the school's chapter of Students for Sensible Drug Policy, said most of her peers don't know what it is  a concerning thought at a school with a significant party culture, she said.

People just don't know how to have conversations about drugs and alcohol use, said Hopkins, who will be tabling on the schools quad distributing resources, test strips and doing HIV-testing outreach as part of Save a Life Day.

Harm Reduction Ohio, the largest distributor of naloxone in the state of Ohio, praised the greater availability of the drug but voiced concerns that the cost could prohibit those who need it most from getting it.

I think over-the-counter is going to do a lot to decrease the stigma to when people see on a shelf, but $45 to $50, a dose is not going to help people who use drugs, said AmandaLynn Reese, the organization's chief program officer. What we really need to do is make sure we are targeting the areas that need it.
WASHINGTON  The countdown is on for Congress to pass 12 spending bills to avert a total government shutdown where all but essential federal agencies would stop their work.

The odds of lawmakers meeting their deadline to pass the 12 spending bills aren't great. The House passed just one before their August recess. There are less than 10 working days before the Sept. 30 deadline when funding expires if lawmakers don't approve a dozen bills in both chambers.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy , R-Calif., faces an added challenge alongside the time crunch, with opposition from a fractured Republican caucus where ultraconservative House Freedom Caucus members are insisting on hardline demands from spending negotiations.

McCarthy has some options, mostly centered around passing a stopgap measure called a continuing resolution. That acts to kick the can down the road and buy lawmakers more time before federal agencies that rely on annual appropriations stop nonessential functions.

Here's how a possible government shutdown in Congress could unfold:

Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., announces an impeachment inquiry against U.S. President Joe Biden to members of the news media outside his office at the U.S. Capitol on September 12, 2023 in Washington, DC.

Can Congress still avert a total shutdown?

The House has passed one spending bill, while the Senate is set to vote on a package of three.

But both chambers still need to agree on some contentious measures so the government can keep its doors open.

Sarah Binder, a political science professor at George Washington University, said it's unlikely Congress will pass the remaining spending bills before the shutdown date.

"There's no way for them to complete and have signed into law the 12 spending bills that would keep the entire government open absent any other action," she said.

This isn't rare in Congress. The last time the House and Senate passed all 12 spending bills that the president signed into law before funding expired was in 1997  nearly 30 years ago.

There is a possibility that Congress could pass an individual spending bill in the next 10 days to avert a total shutdown and provide funding for certain federal agencies to continue operating at normal capacity.

But Binder is weary that there's enough time on the legislative calendar to pass any individual bills through both chambers.

"This time around, they're really running out of time to pass any of those," she said.

What is a continuing resolution?

Binder said the most realistic scenario is for Congress to pass a continuing resolution, or a stopgap measure, that extends last year's spending levels for a designated period of time.

"That's really where most of the attention is focused now," she said.

Questions remain as to what the stopgap would look like, whether McCarthy would be willing to bring one to the floor and if the Republican leader is able to garner enough votes for it to pass in the House.

Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz on Tuesday threatened to oust McCarthy from his position as speaker if he brings a vote on a continuing resolution. Other members from the ultraconservative House Freedom Caucus have threatened to leverage a shutdown if a continuing resolution does not include more spending cuts or other provisions, like more security for the southern border.

"Most likely if Congress can do a stopgap, they're really talking about continuing this year's levels, although those levels are really too high for many of the House Republicans," Binder said.

Previous stopgap measures have extended funding to around December, but McCarthy has hinted at a shorter, one-month extension, CNN reported.

"But that debate itself (over the length of a continuing resolution) is masking bigger problems that have to be solved," she said.

If the House passes the stopgap measure, Binder said it will likely pass quickly in the Senate by unanimous consent in order to avoid an immediate government shutdown.

Rep. Scott Perry, R-Pa., gestures to the Capitol during a news conference with members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, about the debt limit deal on May 30 on Capitol Hill in Washington.

What happens if Congress can't pass a continuing resolution?

If Congress can't pass a continuing resolution or pass any one spending bill, it would lead to a total government shutdown.

"Absent any last-minute action, this will be a total government shutdown because they haven't been able to pass any of the spending bills yet into law," Binder said.

Democratic Majority Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer and Democratic leaders discuss the bipartisan on Sept. 7 effort to avoid a potential government shutdown.

What happens if there is a government shutdown?

If there is a shutdown, Americans would still receive mail, and Social Security recipients would still receive their checks. But several other government functions could be impacted:

 Federal employees would be furloughed.

 Government food assistance benefits could see delays.

 National parks may have to turn away visitors.

 Food safety inspections could be delayed.

 Air travel could be delayed.

Dig deeper: 'I've got a job to do': Biden dismisses GOP impeachment efforts in his public comments on the matter

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Are we going to have a government shutdown? How Congress could act
The News

Three countries in Central Africas Congo Basin are being closely watched for the possibility of a future political upheaval or coups after the fall of the Bongo dynasty in neighboring Gabon.

Cameroon, Congo Brazzaville, and Equatorial Guinea are seen by analysts and long-time Africa watchers as having similar conditions of decades-long rulers, multigenerational economic mismanagement, and an agitated, resentful populace.

There have been eight coups in West and Central Africa since 2020 and there are concerns in the international community that there is a high risk of contagion in these regions.

Know More

The Congo Basin, best known for rainforests that absorb more carbon than the Amazon, spans six countries: Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon. It is home to some of the worlds longest-running authoritarian regimes but also hosts some very unstable political systems.



The vast majority of people born in Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon, and Congo Brazzaville have only ever known one leader. The political systems of the Central African Republic is undergoing upheaval while the uncertainty around DR Congos December elections weighs heavy on the country and its neighbors.

Like with the most recent West African coups in Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, and Niger, five of the six Congo Basin countries are Francophone. One of the common themes in West Africa has been strong anti-French populist rhetoric by the coup leaders.

Yinkas view

Predicting where a coup will happen can be a fools errand at the best of times because there are too many variables to consider. But noting the conditions that encourage and enable them is a useful exercise because many of those factors apply equally in representative democracies.

The basic question citizens are asking is what has my government done for me lately? Survey after survey shows Africans broadly prefer democracy over military rule but if youd seen the images of celebration of the coup out of Libreville, Gabon last month, you might think the opposite.

Georgetown University political scientist Ken Opalo said theres a real risk of contagion in the region, especially with long-serving ineffective leaders. The elevated coup risk in many countries is not necessarily about civilian tolerance of coups  big majorities abhor military rule  but about the failure of civilian rule over the last three decades, he told me.

Its worth noting that while surveys often show a preference for democracy in Africa, surveys by polling company Afrobarometer have also shown a high institutional trust in the military in many countries, sometimes higher than local judiciaries. The military are seeing those numbers too, noted W. Gyude Moore, a senior fellow at the Center for Global Development. So in countries where you have used the security services to keep yourself in power then they (the military) soon understand that they are in fact the ones with the power.

Reuters/Scott Ngokila

A case in point was in Gabon where the deposed Ali Bongo, in a widely circulated video, called for the international community and Gabonese people to make noise on his behalf. All of the democratic institutions, political parties, civil society, or media that would defend the constitutional order, had all been systematically undermined by the use of force, said Moore, who was previously a government minister in Liberia. The military knows that in all of these cases there is going to be no resistance.

Well, there is some resistance but most of that has come from France as the loudest critic of the recent trend of coups all of which have happened in its former colonies. There is even an ongoing behind-the-scenes dispute over the aftermath of the Niger coup with the United States, which appears to have taken a more pragmatic approach in response. The French influence interests here run deep, said several of the analysts we spoke with.

The two countries to watch are Congo Brazzaville and Cameroon, said Mvemba Dizolele, director of the Africa program at the Washington based Center for Strategic and International Studies. These are two countries where the French currently have a strong grip, they both have aged leaders who have mismanaged their countries.

But theres also a possibility that the French may turn a blind eye to future coup plotters if the governments are unpopular and there are assurances Frances interests will be protected. The Gabon coup is already being framed that way.

That might explain why Cameroons President Paul Biya recently reshuffled his top military brass. In Brazzaville, President Denis Sassou Nguesso had a reshuffle back in January but some say family disputes around the 79-year old could provide an opportunity for someone to make a move, including his nephew and intelligence chief Jean-Dominique Okemba. There are a lot of people there with their own ambitions and their own relationships to France, explained CSISs Dizolele.

Notable

Why the Gabon coup and downfall of the Bongo dynasty was so different from the recent coups in West Africa. Semafors Alexander Onukwue explains.
Over the past year, Hannah Dreyfus has published a stream of parents worst nightmare journalism on ProPublica. A recent story featured a Colorado mom, Christine, who lost custody of her young son to his father despite the many times over the years that mandated reporters had registered their suspicions of his physical and sexual abuse with the state. Another, from earlier this year, examined the case of Utah siblings Ty and Brynlee Larson, who barricaded themselves in a bedroom and broadcast their story on TikTok after a court ordered their mom to return them to their father. Child welfare investigators for the state had determined that their claims that their father sexually abused them were supportedbut, to the judge, that didnt matter.

In both cases, the controversial theory of parental alienationthe idea that one parent had brainwashed the kids to turn against the other parenthad swayed a family court judge to the alienated parents side. In other instances, Dreyfus reported, courts have ordered kids found to be alienated to attend mandatory reunification camps run by therapists who believe in the theory and think that compelled togetherness is the way to bring families back together. The cases Dreyfus has reported on, and the ones Type Investigations/Insider featured in a recent series by reporter Olivia Gentile, showcase kids whose parents, when accused of abuse, have leveraged accusations of alienation to regain custody. The details of these cases can be shocking: In one, reported by Gentile, a mother lost custody due to accusations of alienation after her son accused her ex of sexual abuse. She then found child porn her ex had uploaded on an old cloud drive they had shared. (For now, pending his trial, she has her kids back.)

Its hard to know how often accusations of parental alienation make a difference in a custody case when possible abuse is involved, because generally records from family court are sealed unless they are appealed, and parents accused of alienation may not want to rock the boat by speaking to a reporter. But behind the scenes, Dreyfus said that shes heard from hundreds of parents whove had alienation accusations used against them. On the other side of the ledger, you can find communities of people on Reddit and YouTube commiserating about having been the target of what they believe is a campaign of alienation.

Dreyfus and I spoke recently about why parental alienation isnt recognized by mainstream mental health professionals, the origins of the idea, and what changes, if any, may be coming in the way family courts handle accusations of alienation. Our conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Rebecca Onion: How did you get involved with reporting on parental alienation?

Hannah Dreyfus: I moved to the Southwest to take up a spot with ProPublica, and we did a call in the fall of 2021, I believe, for stories in Colorado. And this one mom, Christine, reached out with this sort of unbelievable story where there had been a series of professionalstherapists, medical professionals, school principal, teacherswho had voiced concerns that her son was being sexually and physically abused by his father. Yet, the courts were taking away her custody, and citing the damage that she was having, psychologically, on her kid.

I connected with Christine. I heard her story. At that point, she had primary custody of her son, and it didnt even occur to her that she would lose it. She was reaching out to let me know what was going on in the courts and what the allegations that were being leveled against her were.

And we went through this journey together, a very painful journey of watching the courts decide to take away her son based on claims that she had been psychologically manipulating him to believe he was abused, in a process of parental alienation. And thats what sort of brought me down the rabbit hole of this theory that continues to have a lot of influence in family courts across the country, and yet has never gained acceptance in mainstream scientific circles.

I sort of splintered off on a bunch of different veins of reporting, but I stuck with Christines story all this time, and publishing it was the culmination of all of the work that Ive done to try to understand how this concept plays out intimately in peoples lives and in family court.

The story of the two kids who barricaded themselves in their bedroom in Utah came up along the way, Im assuming?

I was working on Christines story all along, and as I became more acquainted with the community of parentsboth parents who believed themselves to have been alienated and parents who had been accused of alienation and were suffering the consequencesthese really outrageous stories were coming to my attention. And so, when the Utah story came up, I said to my editors, Hey, do you mind if I take a quick break from these other long projects? Because I think this story really has the potential to really bring this issue into the limelight.

It involved teens who are willing and able to talk, which is something thats really valuable in this reporting, and definitely not always the case. And it has a pretty clear structure: a father who had been accused of abuse; that abuse was substantiated by child welfare officials in Utah; despite that substantiation, the judge was ordering these teens back into their dads full custody on the basis that they were being emotionally harmed through parental alienation. And I said, This is a chance to really show people whats at stake here in a very dramatic way.

You cite the work of legal scholar Joan Meier, whose 2020 study found that when an accusation of parental alienation is leveraged against a motherin a case where the father has been alleged to be abusivethe mother is almost twice as likely to suffer a loss of custody. (The effect didnt hold when the genders of the parents were reversed.) You dont heavily emphasize the gendered aspects in your reporting, but reading these stories and seeing Meiers study, I worked my way around to the belief that the idea of parental alienation is fairly anti-female. The way people making accusations of parental alienationwho might be male or femalepoint to the women in these cases as being anxious, controlling, bitter, vindictive, and sometimes gold-digging felt like it was playing on tropes of women being good at manipulation and relational violence. Is this fair to say?

I think its important to realize that the origins of this idea, which lie in the 1970s and 1980s, when psychiatrist Richard Gardner coined the term Parental Alienation Syndrome, are extremely dependent on the portrayal of women as irrational and hystericaljust the oldest tropes in the book. The worst thing women can do when theyre bitter, angry, vengeful, or so the trope goes, is try to frame a spouse as an abuseras a child sexual abuser, even worse. If you just dip into Gardners writings, youll be shockedhe has a book called Sex Abuse Hysteria: Salem Witch Trials Revisited. He does not shy away from this presentation of women. Thats where this theory, in its first iteration as a syndrome, originated, relatively recently. So, thats No. 1.

Today, you have scholars who study parental alienation who have worked really hard to distance the theory from its gendered roots. Psychologist Jennifer Harman, for example, would very much take issue with the idea that this is a gendered phenomenon.

My perspective is that those who try to whitewash and separate the idea from the history of this theory, according to my research and my wanderings into the original work of Richard Gardnerit cant be divorced from that. If scholars nowadays are saying that this is more of a relational phenomenon, and that its just something that is happening between families and it doesnt have to do with gender, thats definitely moving far afield from the way the theory was originally intended and used.

Claims of parental alienation get leveled at fathers and mothers, but in its original iteration and use as a way to deflect or explain a claim of abuse, it was very specifically targeted at women, and used the concept that mothers were hysterical and vengeful, and that is why these abuse claims were coming up, because they were brainwashing their children to believe they were abused in order to get back at an ex.

You mentioned there are people who are trying to get parental alienation labeled as a psychological condition, and even included in the DSM-V. (It was last submitted for inclusion in the DSM-V in 2012, but the application was rejected.) Why would someone want it to be a diagnosable condition?

Anytime you write about something this personal and charged, its inevitable that people are going to criticize your reporting and say, How dare you say parental alienation is not real? Im a parent. Ive been alienated. Its the most painful thing thats ever happened to me.

First of all, we never made the claim that parental alienation is not real. Im absolutely sure that there are parents who have been alienated. What weve been focusing on are cases where alienation is used specifically to offset claims of abuseand claims of abuse where theres a significant amount of evidence. Alienating behaviors when theres no abuse? Its definitely possible that in any contentious divorce, a parent might try and bring kids to their side. But I think theres a difference when theres another explanation for why a child doesnt want to be with a parent, and if that explanation is, I was physically, emotionally, or sexually abused, that should be taken pretty seriously.

Where does it stand in the DSM-V sense?

In terms of its acceptance as a disorder, usually when something is accepted as a disorderlets say schizophreniait has a specific group of symptoms that occur equally across a random sample of the population, that manifest equally with people of all different socioeconomic backgrounds, and you can point to a series of diagnosable conditions and symptoms of the disorder. I think what experts say is that parental alienation is missing a lot of these factors.

Also, going against the idea that it might become accepted as a disorder is the fact that this only shows up in a very specific setting, and is usually only alleged in families where parents have a lot of money, because the cottage industry to treat parental alienation is extremely expensive and paid for personally. The courts do not pay for forced reunification therapy. Linda Gottliebs four-day program, which costs $15,000, not including aftercare, is paid for out of pocket by parentscourt-ordered, but paid for by parents, and so its not being diagnosed equally among the population.

And its not being diagnosed by clinicians. Its being diagnosed by lawyers and judges who are leveraging it more as an argument in court. Frequentlynot always, but frequentlythe people who diagnose it dont have any psychological training. If a guardian ad litem is appointed by the court and says, These kids are being alienated, what psychological training do you have to diagnose this condition and recommend that a court treat it with any sort of psychological therapeutic program? A lot of the people who are the biggest defenders of parental alienation themselves are not licensed therapists. Some of them are, but some are not.

What else do you think people need to understand about this?

Kids have a mind of their own. I think everybody knows that. If youre trying to program a 16-year-oldliterally brainwash them to think somethingtheyre not going to necessarily cooperate. Somebody put it super well for me: Its not a crime for kids not to want to associate with their parents. One legal scholar I was talking to pointed out: What right do parents have to their kids? They have a right to parent them, but do they have an enforceable right to be loved? Do they have an enforceable right for kids to want to spend time with them?

Because thats what these reunification programs are trying to do. Theyre trying to court-order teens and kids who are resisting time with the parent. Theyre trying to literally force them to, and theyre pathologizing it and saying, These teens are suffering from parental alienation, and theyre blaming it on the other parent for being the influencer and the cause of that. That completely removes the agency of a child from the equation, even if there are no allegations of abuse.

Kids resisting parents, thats not a disease. That happens everywhere, always; that happens in healthy families and unhealthy families. Its very hard to pathologize the fact that a teen doesnt want to spend time with a parent. Its very difficult to do so.
Five now-former Memphis police officers were indicted in federal court Tuesday and accused of violating 29-year-old Tyre Nichols' constitutional rights during a Jan. 7 traffic stop that turned into a beating.

The federal indictment is the beginning of a second criminal case the five officers are facing. The five have been facing criminal charges in Shelby County Criminal Court since Jan. 27.

Here's what to know about the federal indictment.

What are the 5 Memphis officers charged with?

U.S. Attorney General for the Western District of Tennessee Kevin Ritz answers questions from the press as Assistant U.S. Attorney General Kristen Clarke, head of the Department of Justices civil rights division, looks on during a press conference announcing that an indictment is pending in federal court for the five now-former Memphis police officers involved in the Tyre Nichols case in Memphis, Tenn., on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.

The five officers  Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin, Desmond Mills and Justin Smith  face four federal counts: excessive force and failure to intervene, deliberate indifference, conspiracy to witness tamper and obstruction of justice.

The first two are crimes that violated Nichols' rights and carry a maximum sentence of life in federal prison. The latter two carry up to 20 years in federal prison.

There is no parole in the federal system.

The excessive force and failure to intervene charge stems from the beating itself, the U.S. Department of Justice alleged. In the indictment, federal prosecutors said the officers' actions directly led to Nichols' death.

Deliberate indifference was a charge linked to the immediate aftermath of the beating. For a conviction on this charge to stick, prosecutors must show that the five officers intentionally disregarded Nichols' safety and health while he was in their custody.

The indictment said the officers "knew that Nichols, an arrestee in police custody, had a serious medical need and the defendants willfully disregarded that medical need by failing to render medical aid" and by not telling the dispatcher and medical personnel that they had beat Nichols.

U.S. Attorney General for the Western District of Tennessee Kevin Ritz looks on as Assistant U.S. Attorney General Kristen Clarke, head of the Department of Justices civil rights division, looks on during a press conference announcing that an indictment is pending in federal court for the five now-former Memphis police officers involved in the Tyre Nichols case in Memphis, Tenn., on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.

The conspiracy to witness tamper charge alleges that the officers worked together to prevent, or slow, the news of what actually happened to Nichols from emerging.

The obstruction charge alleges that the officers attempted to influence the narrative that was written in the initial incident report and administrative investigations through misleading or outright false claims to supervisors.

Does the indictment provide any additional information?

The indictment itself is fairly barebones and filled with legal jargon that briefly explains why each charge was levied against the officers.

However, a subsection of the conspiracy charge lays out the "overt acts" that the DOJ alleges the officers engaged in to tamper with witnesses and contains new details about what was said in the immediate and long-term aftermath.

New details allege that the five officers "used their MPD body-worn cameras in such a way as to limit the capture of evidence at the arrest scene." The indictment goes on to say that Martin moved his body camera so that it would not film the beating.

It also alleges that Haley and Smith did not turn their cameras on until after Nichols had been beaten.

Though some discussions were overheard in the footage released by the City of Memphis weeks after the beating, the indictment added some additional comments that were made.

"...Defendants gathered to discuss amongst themselves the force used on Nichols and made statements like: 'Everybody rocking his ass;' 'Pop, pop, please fall;' and 'I thought when he wasn't going to fall, we about to kill this man,'" the indictment said.

At the police station, the indictment alleges the officers said that Nichols was resisting arrest and grabbing at their gun belts and vests. Mills and Smith, the indictment said, went as far as telling the detective writing the incident report "that Nichols was so strong that he lifted two officers in the air."

Nichols' family has said he had a slim build.

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump speaks at a press conference while holding up five fingers for the five former Memphis Police Department officers involved in the death of Tyre Nichols after the Department of Justice announced that an indictment is pending in federal court for the five officers in Memphis, Tenn., on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.

What does this indictment mean for the ongoing cases?

It is not immediately clear what the indictment will mean for the state criminal case or for the $550 million civil action that Nichols' family  represented by notable civil rights attorney Ben Crump.

Multiple motions have been filed by the five criminally charged officers to have the civil case put on hold while the criminal case at the state level is pending. In those filings, the officers also wrote that federal charges were expected.

The City of Memphis and Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn "C.J." Davis, who are also co-defendants in the civil action, have filed motions opposing the pause and have asked to be dismissed from the case. In their motion to dismiss, the city wrote that the officers were "rogue" and that the city should not be responsible because of that.

Crump, during a Tuesday evening press conference, said he hoped that the other cases would not be placed on hold while the federal case is litigated.

"I can't fathom how delaying this helps anybody," Crump said. "This is a case in criminal court where  unless they plead guilty  that's going to go to trial, and the civil case  unless the city steps up and does right by Tyre Nichols' family  is going to trial. I don't think it gets better for [the City of Memphis] as time passes."

U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee Kevin Ritz said during a separate Tuesday press conference that the first appearance of the officers in federal court would happen "within days," though he could not specifically say what the timeline for the federal case would be.

Federal courts cannot place a stay on state criminal proceedings unless authorized by the U.S. Congress, so it is unlikely the case in Shelby County Criminal Court will be paused that way.

The judge overseeing the case in Shelby County, Criminal Court Judge James Jones Jr., could grant a stay in the case, however, if the federal case is deemed to have an impact on the state case. That, too, seems unlikely as the state case involves murder, kidnapping and aggravated assault charges, and the federal case charges the former officers with violating the U.S. Constitution.

The civil case, which was also filed in federal court, may be the most likely case to be placed on hold.

Rodney Wells and RowVaughn Wells, the parents of Tyre Nichols, close their eyes in prayer as a photo of their son looks on behind them during a press conference held by civil rights attorney Ben Crump after the Department of Justice announced that an indictment is pending in federal court for the five now-former Memphis police officers involved in the Tyre Nichols case at Mississippi Boulevard Baptist Church in Memphis, Tenn., on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.

Though a ruling on the stays in the Nichols civil case has not been issued, a different judge in federal court  Judge John Thomas Fowlkes Jr.  paused a civil case brought by Monterrious Harris that also named the five criminally charged officers.

That lawsuit claims Harris was beaten by those officers three days before Nichols was. Harris survived the beating.

"In balancing the relevant factors for granting a stay, a stay of these proceedings is appropriate, inthe interest of justice and outweighs any prejudice that may be caused to Plaintiff," Fowlkes wrote in the ruling.

Conversely, Crump settled a civil case for the family of George Floyd while the officer that would later be convicted of killing Floyd, Derek Chauvin, was preparing to have his criminal case go to trial. The civil case was not stayed, and Chauvin's attorneys cited the settlement in his appeal of the state conviction.

Chauvin pleaded guilty to the federal charges that alleged he violated Floyd's civil rights.

Rodney Wells and RowVaughn Wells, the parents of Tyre Nichols, listen as a photo of their son looks on behind them during a press conference held by civil rights attorney Ben Crump after the Department of Justice announced that an indictment is pending in federal court for the five now-former Memphis police officers involved in the Tyre Nichols case at Mississippi Boulevard Baptist Church in Memphis, Tenn., on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.

How family, public officials reacted to the indictment

Almost two hours after the indictment was announced at a press conference Tuesday, Nichols' parents spoke at a press conference at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church. In that press conference, they thanked the DOJ for acting swiftly and said this is another step towards justice.

"It was a surprise to us that it happened so quickly, but we are very thankful that it did," RowVaughn Wells, Nichols' mother, said Tuesday. "As Ive said before, Ty was just a free spirit. He should really be here today. He shouldnt be gone. Because of those five police officers, hes not (here). This is something that Im going to have to deal with for the rest of my life  that I dont have my son. But if my son had to leave this earth, in this matter, Im hoping it was for the greater good."

Rodney Wells, Nichols' father, said the family was "ecstatic" about the indictment and that he has faith in the DOJ's ability to prosecute the case.

"I know if the feds picked up this case, that theyre going to go to the nth degree to make sure justice is done for Tyre," he said. "Thats what this family wants. We are very very proud. This is a very good day for the Wells family, for justice and for all our siblings."

The death of Tyre Nichols in Memphis: What to Know

Public officials, including U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen and State Sen. Raumesh Akbari, both Democrats from Memphis, also applauded the DOJ for the indictment and said that it was a step towards restoring and maintaining trust in law enforcement.

"The news today from the United States Justice Department that there will be criminal accountability on the federal level for Tyres death gives his family hope as they continue to grieve his loss and inspire change in his honor," Crump said in an email statement. "We applaud AG Garland and Assistant AG Clarke for their tireless efforts to create federal accountability for these officers who were selected to be part of the Memphis Police Department's SCORPION unit and savagely ended Tyre's life, setting a critical precedent for accountability and justice."

Rodney Wells, the father of Tyre Nichols, speaks during a press conference held by civil rights attorney Ben Crump as a photo of his son looks down on him after the Department of Justice announced that an indictment is pending in federal court for the five now-former Memphis police officers involved in the Tyre Nichols case at Mississippi Boulevard Baptist Church in Memphis, Tenn., on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.

After the indictment was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee Tuesday afternoon, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said the officers that were indicted "dishonor" police who work to keep communities safe.

The country watched in horror as Tyre Nichols was kicked, punched, tased and pepper sprayed, and we all heard Mr. Nichols cry out for his mother and say, Im just trying to go home, Garland said in a press release Tuesday. Officers who violate the civil rights of those they are sworn to protect undermine public safety, which depends on the communitys trust in law enforcement. They dishonor their fellow officers who do their work with integrity every day."

Lucas Finton is a criminal justice reporter with The Commercial Appeal. He can be reached at Lucas.Finton@commercialappeal.com and followed on Twitter @LucasFinton.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: 5 ex-Memphis officers federally indicted: What could happen next?
Implementing ranked choice voting in Oklahoma could cost tens of millions of dollars because state elections equipment and software are not compatible with the voting method, the head of the Oklahoma State Election Board told lawmakers.

Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax advised lawmakers on Tuesday to be judicious when making election changes as some grassroots groups push for ranked choice voting and some conservatives look to ban the election method.

I would urge extreme caution to the Legislature if youre going to consider this as a voting system to be used in the state of Oklahoma, he said.

Five GOP state lawmakers hosted an interim study on ranked choice voting to explore the election method that has been implemented in Alaska and Maine. In ranked choice elections, voters rank the candidates in each race, as opposed to selecting just one candidate.

More: Several Republicans expected to run in special election for Edmond-area House seat

Lawmakers use interim studies as a chance to dig into topics on which they might write legislation.

The American Legislative Exchange Council, a conservative group that writes model legislation for state legislators, is encouraging members this year to introduce legislation that would ban ranked choice voting in state and local elections. ALEC says ranked choice voting is a complicated concept being pushed by special interest groups.

How much would it cost to switch to ranked choice voting in Oklahoma?

Ziriax said Oklahoma would have to purchase new voting machines, ballot scanners and software  a cost he estimated in the tens of millions of dollars  to implement ranked choice voting. The state will have to purchase new voting equipment within about five years anyways because the current machines are over a decade old, he said.

Cindy Alexander, an official with Rank the Vote Oklahoma, said ranked choice voting could save the state money in the long term by eliminating the need for runoff primary elections.

In a ranked choice system, candidates also would have to clinch a majority of the vote to win, she said. In Oklahoma, its not unusual for a candidate to win a general election with less than 50% of the vote if there are more than two candidates on the ballot.

Ziriax said he couldnt speculate on the net fiscal impact of ranked choice voting over time.

More: GOP candidate for president wants Trump disqualified from Oklahoma ballots

He also expressed concerns that the system could be confusing for voters.

Republican Rep. Denise Crosswhite Hader, R-Piedmont, who led the interim study, said she wanted to hear from people on both sides of the ranked choice voting debate. But she expressed concerns about changing Oklahomas voting method, particularly to a system that might take longer for the public to get election results.

I very much like the system that we have, especially with our paper ballots and the fact that we get elections completed that night, she said.

Crosswhite Hader said she had not seen ALECs model bill to ban ranked choice voting.

Oklahoma Voice is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oklahoma Voice maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Janelle Stecklein for questions: info@oklahomavoice.com. Follow Oklahoma Voice on Facebook and Twitter.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma elections: Ranked choice voting would be tough, election chief says
Updated booster shots will soon be available at pharmacy locations in southwestern Illinois as COVID-19 hospitalizations increase in the Land of Lincoln and across the U.S.

COVID-related hospitalizations are up 7% in Illinois according to data from early September, the Illinois Department of Public Health reports.

Twelve counties across the state are at a medium COVID-19 hospital admissions level, including Washington, Marion, Effingham, Fayette, Montgomery, Macoupin, Saline, Gallatin, Hardin, Pope, Johnson and Massac.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides data on COVID-19 hospitalizations, emergency department visits, deaths and test positivity, but the federal agency no longer tracks cases. Some data is available by county, while other metrics are shown at a regional level with each region including multiple states.

Officials with the Illinois Department of Public Health wrote in a Sept. 13 statement they recommend eligible residents, which include most of the states population, receive the recently approved new booster shot.

Illinois now has a new tool to prepare our residents for the fall and winter respiratory season: an updated COVID-19 vaccine that targets current strains, state Department of Public Health Director Dr. Sameer Vohra wrote in the statement. I recommend the updated vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. These shots will help prevent hospitalizations and severe outcomes and are especially important for those who are over 65, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions.

Along with information about COVID-19, the CDC also reports data about other respiratory viruses, including influenza and respiratory syncytial virus, commonly known as RSV. The latest data available, from the week ending Sept. 2, shows COVID-related emergency department visits are up, but flu and RSV visits have remained low.

State health department officials reported Aug. 25 COVID-19 activity was on the rise across Illinois, citing wastewater surveillance data.

Heres what to know about getting an updated COVID-19 booster shot in the metro-east. For those who are also looking to be innoculated against the flu, the state health department reports it is safe to get both vaccines at one appointment.

Adults 65 and older, lend us your ears. Youre at higher risk of developing the wildest flu complications or even being hospitalized. But a flu vaccine can tame your symptoms if you do get sick.



Learn more: https://t.co/zou5CABIze #FightFlu pic.twitter.com/osOGkP0FEn  CDC (@CDCgov) September 12, 2023

Where to get the new COVID-19 booster

CVS and Walgreens pharmacies are offering this seasons flu shots and will soon offer updated COVID-19 boosters. CVS locations in Belleville, Collinsville and Granite City had availability for Tuesday appointments as of Friday afternoon.

Walgreens stores in Belleville, Swansea, OFallon, East St. Louis and more metro-east towns have availability for COVID-19 and flu vaccine appointments beginning Monday for those ages 12 and older. COVID-19 vaccine appointments for children ages 6 months to 11 years will be available starting Sept. 29, according to Walgreens website.

You can schedule vaccine appointments at CVS and Walgreens locations online.

The vaccines are available for free under most insurance plans, CVS website says. Walgreens website says COVID-19 vaccines are provided at no cost to patients as its either covered by insurance or government assistance.

The St. Clair County Public Health Department also administers COVID-19 vaccinations. Spokesperson Brenda Fedak wrote in a Thursday afternoon email to the News-Democrat the department does not yet have the updated COVID-19 vaccines.

We have requested it and our order has been acknowledged, Fedak said. We anticipate having it in house by the end of next week, but there is no confirmed delivery date at this time.

Note: This story was updated Friday afternoon to reflect some CVS locations had not received the updated COVID-19 booster yet. CVS website said Thursday same-day appointments were available.

This story may be updated.
Peter Dukes, known as the "father of the PSL," spoke to Insider about its origin story.

Dukes and his Starbucks team poured espresso shots on pumpkin pies to figure out the flavor.

The PSL recipe hasn't changed in over a decade, and Dukes doesn't think it ever will.

How did Starbucks come up with the flavor for its iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte? With a lot of pumpkin pies and espresso shots.

Starbucks is celebrating the famous fall drink's 20th anniversary, so Insider sat down with Peter Dukes, the "father of the PSL," to learn more about its origin story.

Dukes told Insider that, early in 2003, he and his team got together at the "Liquid Lab"  the former name of Starbucks' research and development space at its Seattle headquarters  and came up with 100 different ideas for the company's first-ever fall drink. One of those ideas was a pumpkin latte.

The new flavor seemed like a big risk, but Starbucks wanted to give it a chance  which kicked off plenty of taste tests.

Peter Dukes is known as the "father of the PSL." Starbucks

Pumpkin products weren't common 20 years ago, so Dukes and his team had to get creative.

"The idea of pumpkin in a beverage did not exist," Dukes said. "So we started pouring espresso shots on the pumpkin pies and tasting it, getting a sense of what those flavors tasted like when you combine the pumpkin pie and espresso."

"And we found  wow, that tastes pretty good," he added.

Dukes said some of his coworkers would bring pumpkin pies from their local grocery stores, while others would bake their own pumpkin pies so they could experiment with different flavors.

"Our team would come together multiple times a week, tasting different iterations of the PSL and working to get it optimized to the recipe that exists today," Dukes recalled. "We knew we had something that was unique."

The recipe for Starbucks' PSL hasn't changed in more than a decade. Facebook/Starbucks

Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice Latte  which is now available hot, iced, or blended  features the coffee giant's signature espresso combined with steamed milk, real pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.

The recipe hasn't changed in more than a decade, and Dukes believes it will stay that way.

"I think we got a good thing," he said. "I think we might have a revolt on our hands if we changed the recipe."

The PSL has since taken on a life of its own and become an integral part of fall for people around the world  and Dukes thinks nostalgia is a big part of it.

"Fall is a unique time period when it comes to the weather changing and those crisp, cool autumn days," Dukes said. "Kids are heading back to school, families are getting back in the routine of things, and there's the holidays and the flavors that come with the holidays."

"Pumpkin spice encapsulates all of that in a cup," he added. "It helps to capture that and evoke those warm, comfortable feelings when you take those first few sips. It's cozying up to a warm fire with your family and friends."

Read the original article on Insider
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement arrested Miami Commissioner Alex Diaz de la Portilla Thursday on several felony and misdemeanor charges. The commissioner is accused of conspiring with attorney and lobbyist William Bill Riley Jr. to launder $245,000 in political contributions in exchange for the commissioners support on a plan to build a sports complex in the city of Miami. Here are the charges Diaz de la Portilla faces:

Money laundering

Diaz de la Portilla faces one count of money laundering, a first-degree felony. The maximum he could face is 30 years in prison.

Unlawful compensation or reward for official behavior

The commissioner also faces three counts of unlawful compensation or reward for official behavior, a second-degree felony. Investigators say they found that Diaz de la Portilla controlled two political committees that were used to fund personal expenses. The inquiry also found that he and Riley allegedly accepted more than $15,000 in political contributions without reporting them.

The payments, investigators say, were meant to support a judicial campaign for one of his brothers. Diaz de la Portilla faces three counts that carry a sentence of up to 15 years for each count.

Miami Commissioner Alex Diaz de la Portilla was booked into jail on corruption charges on Sept. 14, 2023.

READ MORE: Miami commissioner arrested on bribery and money laundering charges

Official misconduct

He faces four counts of official misconduct, a second-degree felony that carries a sentence of up to 15 years in prison for each count.

Bribery

Diaz de la Portilla also faces one count of bribery, a second-degree felony that has a maximum possible penalty of 15 years.

Criminal conspiracy

The Miami commissioner faces a second-degree felony charge of criminal conspiracy with a possible penalty of up to 15 years in prison.

MIsdemeanor charges

Diaz de la Portilla also faces misdemeanor charges. He faces a first-degree campaign contribution in excess of legal limits with a maximum possible penalty of one year in prison. He also faces two counts of second-degree failure to report a gift that carries up to 60 days per count.

Diaz de la Portilla is being held on a $72,000 bond.
The Ocean Explorer cruise ship is run aground in Greenland on Tuesday.

The Ocean Explorer cruise ship is run aground in Greenland on Tuesday.

UPDATE: The Ocean Explorer was freed from its grounding on Thursday by the Tarajoq vessel, operator Aurora Expeditions said. All passengers on board are safe.

PREVIOUSLY:

An attempt Wednesday to free a luxury cruise ship that has run aground in Greenland failed, Denmarks Joint Arctic Command said, leaving the 206 aboard stuck in Arctic conditions until at least Friday.

The Ocean Explorer got stuck Monday in the Alpefjord in Northeast Greenland National Park. Its operator, Australia-based Aurora Expeditions, told HuffPost that three passengers have COVID-19 but are in isolation and doing well.

All others including the expedition team and crew remain healthy, the company said.

Arctic Command said they are in contact with the ship and have confirmed that all aboard are safe and there is no damage to the environment.

On Wednesday, a Greenland-owned fishing research ship called Tarajoq tried to pull the cruise ship off the ground at high tide but was unsuccessful. This came after a couple of tries by the Ocean Explorer crew to free the ship during high tide.

The next attempt will come when the Danish navys Knud Rasmussen patrol vessel reaches the site, which is expected to be on Friday afternoon. The ship must travel about 1,400 miles to get there, Arctic Command said.

Aurora Expeditions told HuffPost that it is actively engaged in efforts to free the ship and has secured the support of other vessels in the vicinity should their assistance become necessary.

Arctic Command said they are in contact with the Ocean Explorer and have confirmed that all aboard are safe and there is no damage to the environment.

Arctic Command said they are in contact with the Ocean Explorer and have confirmed that all aboard are safe and there is no damage to the environment.

A cruise ship in trouble in the National Park is of course worrisome. There is a long way for immediate help, our units are far from that and the weather can be very unfavorable. In the specific situation, however, we do not see acute danger to human life or the environment, which is reassuring, Arctic Commands Capt. Brian Jensen said in a statement shared on Facebook.

The Ocean Explorer is stuck in the worlds biggest and northernmost national park. Fewer than 40 people live there year-round with about 70 sled dogs and there are no towns, just research or military stations, according to a Greenland tourism website.

Arctic Commands Capt. Flemming Madsen told The Associated Press the passengers on board are a mix of tourists from Australia, New Zealand, Britain, the United States and South Korea.

He said they are all doing fine and all I can say is that they got a lifetime experience.

Passenger Gina Hill told The Guardian that after they found out some people had COVID-19, some chose to wear masks but others did not.

She said everyone aboard was in good spirits.

Greenland is a self-governing, autonomous territory of Denmark. It still relies on Denmark for financial support and defense. But, according to a 2019 poll, more than two-thirds of Greenlands adult population, who are mostly Inuit, support independence.
Protest against the U.S. economic embargo in Cuba, in Madrid

(Reuters) -Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said on Thursday his country rejects the participation of its citizens as mercenaries in war, contradicting a statement by Cuba's ambassador in Moscow hours earlier saying his government did not oppose the legal participation of its citizens in Russias war in Ukraine.

The apparently conflicting statements follow Cuban state-run and foreign media reports suggesting that young Cuban men have enlisted in the Kremlins military in recent months as mercenaries and victims in alleged human trafficking schemes.

"The unequivocal and unswerving position of the Cuban government, in accordance with its national legislation, is contrary to the participation of Cuban citizens in conflicts of any sort and against mercenarism and trafficking in persons," Rodriguez said on social media.

Last week Cuban authorities said they had arrested 17 people on charges related to a ring of human traffickers that allegedly had lured young Cuban men to serve in the Russian military amid the Ukraine conflict.

Cuban authorities said those fighting for hire as mercenaries or involved in trafficking could face long prison sentences or even the death penalty, depending on the severity of the crime.

Cubas top diplomat in Moscow, Julio Antonio Garmendia Pena, told Russias state-run RIA news agency hours earlier on Thursday that those arrested in Cuba, all Cuban citizens, had been engaged in illegal activities and had broken the law.

"We have nothing against Cubans who just want to sign a contract and legally take part with the Russian army in this operation. But we are against illegality and these operations that have nothing to do with the legal field," RIA quoted the ambassador as saying.

Cuba did not respond to Reuters inquiry regarding the apparently contradictory statements.

Cuba's foreign ministry said last week the human trafficking network that authorities were now working to "neutralise and dismantle" had operated from Russia "to incorporate Cuban citizens living there, and even some from Cuba, into the military forces participating in war operations in Ukraine".

Russia's defence ministry did not respond to a Reuters request for comment on the matter.

Russia, which has strong political ties with communist-run Cuba, has long been an important destination for Cuban migrants seeking to escape economic stagnation at home.

Russian President Vladimir Putin last year signed a decree allowing foreigners signing up for service in the Russian army to receive citizenship via a fast-track procedure.

Cuba has denied any involvement in the war in Ukraine.

(Reporting by Maxim Rodionov; additional reporting by Dave Sherwood in HavanaEditing by Gareth Jones and Leslie Adler)
In an apparent policy reversal, Cubas ambassador to Russia said the Cuban government would not stop its citizens from enlisting in the Russian army to fight in Ukraine, despite earlier statements by the islands authorities reporting the arrest of 17 people involved in recruiting Cubans for the Russian army and assurances that Cuba was firmly against such activities.

We have nothing against Cubans who just want to sign a contract and legally take part in this operation with the Russian army, the Cuban ambassador to Moscow, Julio Antonio Garmendia Pena, told Russian state news agency Ria on Thursday. But we oppose illegality and these operations that have nothing to do with the legal area.

Following dramatic testimony in late August by two young Cuban men who said they were scammed into joining the Russian military, the Cuban government said it had uncovered and was dismantling a human trafficking ring operating from Russia in order to incorporate Cuban citizens living there and even some living in Cuba, into the military forces that participate in military operations in Ukraine.

At the time, the Cuban Foreign Ministry said in a statement that Cuba has a firm and clear historical position against mercenarism and that it was acting firmly against those who within the national territory participate in any form of human trafficking for mercenarism or recruitment purposes so that Cuban citizens may raise weapons against any country.

Last Thursday, Cubas Interior Ministry said it had arrested 17 people involved in these activities, including three authorities believed were the organizers of the ring. That same day, Ukrainian citizen-journalist website InformNapalm published leaked documents showing the Russian military was behind recent efforts to recruit about 200 Cuban mercenaries to fight in Ukraine, mainly coming from the island.

The Cuban ambassador, Garmendia, called the Cubanswho were arrested swindlers who had broken the law. Apart from the three recruiters, most of the detainees were Cubans who wanted to enlist in the Russian Army, according to Interior Ministry officials.

We are talking about bad people who, on the basis of such an important issue as a military operation, as relations between our countries, want to earn money, want to put money in their pocket and engage in illegal activities, the diplomat said. He did not clarify if the recruiting of Cubans by the Russian is no longer considered as mercenarism, a crime under Cuban law.

A U.S State Department official said the administration is concerned by reports alleging young Cubans have been deceived and recruited to fight for Russia in its brutal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russias need to use deceit to attract foreign fighters indicates both its military weakness and its disregard for human life.

We continue to monitor this situation closely, the official said.

Late on Thursday, after the publication of this story, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said on X that the unequivocal and unswerving position of the Cuban government, in accordance with its national legislation, is contrary to the participation of Cuban citizens in conflicts of any sort and against mercenarism and trafficking in persons. He did not address the apparent contradiction with the statements made by the Cuban ambassador in Moscow.

A spokesman for the Cuban embassy in Washington said Rodriguezs statement was Cubas official position on the matter but did not clarify the discrepancy with the ambassadors comments.

The Cuban government has said it is not involved in the war in Ukraine and rejected allegations that is complicit in the recruitment effort by Russia, a close political and military ally. But Cuban activists and Ukrainian politicians have called into question Cubas denial.

The Cuban communist regime pretends that it has nothing to do with this human trafficking, the chairman of the Ukrainian parliaments committee on foreign relations, Oleksandr Merezhko, said on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. In reality, this totalitarian regime is on the side of the aggressor.
The Sacramento City Council, with a bare majority vote and without the support of its most progressive members, has made a historic investment in improving law enforcement by creating a division to monitor compliance with policing standards and by more than doubling the staff of the citys independent watchdog.

The structural reforms have the potential to dramatically professionalize the citys systems to improve police practices. However, it will take much better working relationships among the city staff and with the City Council and engaged residents to make real progress and maintain the investments. This is now Sacramentos main weakness, and it was on full display at Tuesday nights meeting.

It was notable and glaring that after years of failures and false starts, substantive reforms of the Sacramento Police Department were set in motion by more moderate and cautious City Council members while an ascending generation of younger progressives somehow couldnt get to a yes vote.

Opinion

Setting the wheels of progress in motion was the first-ever audit of the Sacramento Police Department in June by the citys longtime independent monitor, the Office of Public Safety Accountability.

Reviewing two years worth of police records, OPSA found, for example, that all 19 police stops for tinted windows involved drivers who happened to be either Black or Latino. OPSA also found instances of officers entering homes without warrants and forcibly seizing cellphones from onlookers during a police stop.

The audit suggested 19 different reforms for the police department, many focused on creating and updating policies to better direct officers on when to stop motorists, how to handle onlookers with cellphones, and when to conduct searches and seizures or handcuff minors.

The process also revealed unresolved tensions between OPSA and the police department. Both Chief Kathy Lester and OPSAs Dr. LaTesha Watson pledged to work on the next steps.

They produced a first-ever joint recommendation on new reform initiatives, all requiring more manpower.

Lester sought to add four non-sworn police staff to the department to create a new compliance office to internally ensure adherence to policing standards and engage with other governments and OPSA.

We want to be trusted as our police agency, Lester told the council. The community has asked for more data and better transparency. We do want to provide that.

OPSA, meanwhile, asked to increase its staff from five to 11. It is a huge number, Watson said. My job is to tell you what I need.

City Attorney Susana Alcala Wood asked for two positions to handle the additional workload resulting from greater compliance and monitoring activities.

In an uncharacteristic moment, City Manager Howard Chan recommended approving these 12 new positions, totaling roughly $2 million a year, without identifying money in the budget for it. He plans to cover the costs with unspent money this fiscal year while building the additions into the budget in the next fiscal year.

When the audit first came forward, the request was, Lets really bolster what the resources look like, Chan said.

While the wings of city government presented jointly Tuesday night, the internal frictions were on full display. When asked, Watson said that she and Lester have not met since the release of the audit in June. And police department officials dont routinely attend meetings of the citys Police Review Commission, comprised of citizens appointed by council members.

There is a clear break between these two departments (police and OPSA), Councilman Sean Loloee said. We have to grow up. We have to act professionally. This back and forth needs to stop.

Mayor Darrell Steinberg was among the five voting to upgrade the staff for compliance and monitoring. The other four were: Eric Guerra, Rick Jennings, Karina Talamantes and Lisa Kaplan.

The police department needs real improvement here, and we have a very good police force at the same time, Steinberg said. I think these actions will get us to where we need to go.

The councils action will increase the staffing of OPSA by 120%, the city attorneys office by 3% and the police department by less than four-tenths of 1%.

Lester said that her non-sworn professional staff was mostly women, who within the current organizational structure, hit a ceiling, she said. The new compliance division creates a higher career path, which is really important.

Despite this, progressive council members Katie Valenzuela, Mai Vang and Caity Maple did not support the proposal because of the police augmentation, with Maple abstaining. They were joined by Loloee, who also voted no.

Every time the police department comes to us and asks for more, we give it to them, said Valenzuela, who had questions about the request she felt were not answered. I dont think it is ideological, but good governance.

It was telling that the voices on the council who usually call for a different approach to policing could not get to yes simply because four new unsworn compliance positions were added to the department. A persistent critic of city police, Valenzuela said her no vote was not ideological as Steinberg suggested during Tuesdays meeting.

Were not suggesting that council members should not vote their conscience, but the actions taken by the majority of the council were significant and represented an attempt to cut through politics to enact reforms that transcend ideology for the betterment of the city.

Policing is one of the most difficult professions imaginable. Chief Lester has not retreated into a bunker since this OPSA audit but has taken the challenge head-on to move the police department to the next level with new policies and a compliance division that adheres to the industrys best practices. OPSA, meanwhile, will have the staff to review every citizen complaint of police misconduct and be the comprehensive watchdog the police department has never had. Last year, for example, it only had staff to review 52% of complaints.

A majority of the council, with notable exceptions, has given the staff the tools needed to monitor and advance going forward. If future councils years from now have the fortune to examine the highest level of data on how our officers are engaging the public on the streets, they will have todays moderate council members to thank.
On April 25, 2014, the City of Flint, Michigan, changed their municipal water supply source from the Detroit-supplied Lake Huron water to the Flint River. The switch caused water distribution pipes to corrode and leach lead and other contaminants into municipal drinking water. (see Centers for Disease Control Report).

Why was the decision made to change from Detroit-supplied water to the Flint River? Public officials sacrificed community health and safety for budgetary, cost-cutting reasons  with no thought given to the short-term or long-term consequences of their actions on the public, particularly on the most vulnerable, children and the elderly.

Gloria Lara, executive director of Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance (LEDA).

We all should consider the potential long-term effects of significantly cutting the budget for public health in Ottawa County. Do we want to wake up in a few years, realizing that severe cuts in public health services adversely affected the health of Ottawa County? Are we in danger of becoming another Flint?

As we see the direction the Ottawa County Commissioners are giving, through the county administrator, for the Ottawa County Department of Public Health (OCDPH) budget, we should consider whether the statements to reduce the OCDPH budget makes sense, both in the way the budget is being developed and in the potential for severely limiting public health resources.

I was an auto industry executive for over 25 years  with four different Fortune 50 companies. I cannot tell you how many budgets I developed. These budgets were based on addressing the organizations priorities and needs, and ensuring that the groups entrusted with delivering the results supported the budgets. This does not seem to be the current case with the proposed OCDPH budget.

Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance (LEDA) works to dismantle barriers to ensure people of all ethnic backgrounds have equal access and opportunity to participate fully in the life of the community. As executive director of LEDA, I always consider how everyone in our communities can enjoy and be a part of their communities. By severely limiting public health resources, not everyone will be ensured to live in a healthy community.

I leave you with the following statement from Michigans Guide to Public Health for Local Governing Entities: Public Health Information and Resources for County Commissioners, Boards of Health, and City Councils: Protecting your jurisdiction from environmental and biological threats to preserve the American way of life is something we can all get behind. Your constituents are depending on you to provide your local health department with the resources that it needs to protect the population.

 Gloria Lara is executive director of Holland-based Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance. She also serves as a Commissioner on the Michigan Civil Rights Commission and has her MBA from Harvard Business School.

This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: My Take: Cutting health dept funding will negatively impact all of us
Washington, D.C., Mayor Marion Barry waves to supporters after addressing city employees in Washington in this March 14, 1990, file photo.

Washington, D.C., Mayor Marion Barry waves to supporters after addressing city employees in Washington in this March 14, 1990, file photo.

Its 1988, Im 12 and Washington, D.C., is losing the crack war. Mayor Marion Barry hasnt walked into the Vista hotel, yet  in fact, hes talking to kids at Lincoln Jr. High School where my mother teaches English. Hes sweating so much that hes got a hand towel on his shoulder and is using it to wipe the moisture from his forehead. Its all my mother and the other teachers could talk about. I would hear about it as soon as I got home: how Mayor Barry was supposed to be speaking to the kids, but the kids were all talking about how he was sweating. Because when youve watched a city devastated by drugs, you are familiar with the sweats. And the scratching. And the nod. It was all symbolic of addiction.

During the 1980s, it was impossible to throw a stone and not hit someone who was either struggling with addiction or had a family member who was a victim of crack. D.C. was The Walking Dead before we knew what a zombie apocalypse looked like.

So no one in D.C. who had seen their family or friends family destroyed by crack was surprised by the news that Barry was caught in a hotel room smoking rock two years later in 1990. We knew he had a problem. Everyone did. It was a bizarre normal. Barry being an addict didnt move the needle for those living in the city during this time. In fact, it humanized him. It endeared him to people who believed that if the bitch was the government, then shed also set us up, too.

So its no surprise that as more information pours out about former President Donald Trump and his brood that his supporters are growing stronger in force. Its what happens when a prophet is demonized; his followers believe not only in his rise to power, but in the power of his teachings. Doesnt matter that a potato could be a better president or that Trump is likely going to jail (shut up, Im dreaming here), those who love him love him recklessly and with abandon  as I did with Mayor Marion Barry.

He saved my life.

Ive told this story several times, but Im going to tell it again. During the summer of my 14-year-old year of uncertainty, I was teased mercilessly about my sneakers. The growth spurt the year before betrayed me. My clothes, all of them were too small and I was starting from scratch. Its also important to point out here that because D.C. had become zombieland, the crack market created unlikely entrepreneurs. Kids my age werent just fresh, they were ridiculously fly. Im talking about new sneakers every day fly. So my beat-up Nikes stood out like a finger painting of a tree taped to a Van Gogh.

It was disturbingly obvious that something was wrong and I wasnt going for it anymore. That summer I was tumbling between staying on my side of the street and venturing off into the dark economy that had taken over my city, and then I got a job. A summer youth employment job.

Id never worked a day in my life, but Barry knew something that those living outside the city didnt: If he was going to compete with the underground hustle of selling drugs, then he had to put money in kids pockets. That was really the only way to save us. So he engineered a program that allowed D.C. public school kids to work in all facets of the District government, from the Capitol to sanitation, so that we could see what an honest days living looked like. A lot of my friends kept those jobs and were employed once they graduated.

That year, I was picked to be a part of a college leadership program in which a select group of kids got to learn study skills and hear from local entrepreneurs about what it took to make it in business. It was a plush summer job to get paid to learn how to keep dreaming about becoming a success. The last week of the program, we got to stay on an actual college campus. I never told anyone this, but I cried when that program was over because I never wanted it to end. I never felt more loved and encouraged than I did that summer.

This file frame from a black-and-white FBI videotape shows Barry allegedly lighting a crack cocaine pipe in a Washington, D.C., hotel room on Jan. 18, 1990, as Rasheeda Moore stands behind him.

This file frame from a black-and-white FBI videotape shows Barry allegedly lighting a crack cocaine pipe in a Washington, D.C., hotel room on Jan. 18, 1990, as Rasheeda Moore stands behind him.

So the news of Barry smoking crack didnt make me hate him. It made me empathetic to his struggle. It humanized just how far up the ladder this epidemic had gone. Most important, it confirmed the one thing that Chocolate City believed before his arrest: that the government was just as corrupt as we believed it to be.

Thats where Trump followers come in. For years, Trumps been selling one tenet that has become the spine of his success: See the world as I see it, and if anyone tries to tell you differently, they are not to be believed. He spent his candidacy and the majority of his presidency attacking the validity of mainstream media. Whenever anyone tried to point out that the then-president was lying, hed go on the offense to attack the report.

But there was a pivot in Trumps mission to subjugate mainstream media outlets. He began claiming that they were not only against him, but were actively trying to rig the 2020 election. He claimed that the media was a part of a political witch hunt to keep him from being reelected.

This not-so-subtle attack is what led to the mayo-infused insurrection on Jan. 6, 2021. And its not just because Trump lied. Its because his followers believed in him so much that they couldnt see the truth. And as such, they became political pawns in a game of pixelated chess.

Belief is a powerful drug. I know because I used to be hooked on it. I was a full-fledged member of the Marion Barry was a political prisoner crowd during his six-month stay in federal prison. I was elated when he was elected to the D.C. Council upon his release in 1992. I was speechless in 1994 when he was reelected mayor. And I was saddened by his death in 2014, despite being a full-on adult with bills in my name by then.

Yes, I knew that Barry was under investigation in 1984 and that he reportedly paid a woman $20,000 to $25,000 to withhold information from a federal grand jury. Yes, Id heard that the Vista sting wasnt a setup not to get the then-mayor to smoke crack but actually a plot to kill him. Yes, I knew that the majority of his political work was rife with scandal. But guess what? I didnt care.

I was more focused on Barrys political comeuppance than his downfall: the fact that he was the son of a poor Southern family (which included Barrys father working as a sharecropper and a young Barry actually picking cotton), to his work in the Civil Rights movement, to him being shot during a hostage situation.

In this handout provided by the Fulton County Sheriff's Office, former U.S. President Donald Trump poses for his booking photo at the Fulton County Jail on Aug. 24 in Atlanta, Georgia.

In this handout provided by the Fulton County Sheriff's Office, former U.S. President Donald Trump poses for his booking photo at the Fulton County Jail on Aug. 24 in Atlanta, Georgia.

So no one had to tell me that the news was fake when it attacked Barry. I already knew it was. Not that the media was necessarily making up stories, but I knew corruption and politics arent just bedfellows, theyre cousins. Barry was being unfairly targeted by a corrupt task force that had criminalized crack for both those who sold it and those who smoked it.

Crack smokers and sellers got mandatory five-year sentences for what amounted to a misdemeanor with the same amount of powder cocaine. If you have trouble understanding the uneven penalties for similar drug use, just know this: white people snorted cocaine, Black people used crack. But two things were true both then and now: Barry was a flawed man who was attacked by a flawed system. What white D.C. residents could never understand is that because of his flaws, Barry was one of us. He was the peoples champ and D.C.s mayor for life.

Trumps ability to win over his constituents lies not only in their shared racist, misogynist and xenophobic views, but also in his trumped-up (pun intended) wealth. Despite the common misconception that Trump voters are all hard-working middle-class Americans (a bit thats played up during his countless rallies), Trump supporters are actually just well-off Republicans.

A March 2016 NBC survey that we analyzed showed that only a third of Trump supporters had household incomes at or below the national median of about $50,000, The Washington Post reported. Another third made $50,000 to $100,000, and another third made $100,000 or more and that was true even when we limited the analysis to only non-Hispanic whites. If being working class means being in the bottom half of the income distribution, the vast majority of Trump supporters during the primaries were not working class.

But Trumps done the duplicitous work of selling himself as the result of perseverance, when he was handed his fortunes from his rich daddy, while simultaneously marketing himself as a billionaire when he isnt one. Hes somehow made both the rich and the not-so-rich believe that hes one of them and the truth is probably somewhere in the middle.

So the mug shot and criminal charges wont hurt Trumps chances with those who believe in him, no more than Barrys arrest video did his chance at a second term as D.C.s mayor. Trumps currently leading all GOP candidates and is the front-runner for the presidential nomination.

This is the magic of cultism, and really, the magic of magic; its knowing that a trick is happening, knowing youre being duped while having no idea how its being done, all the while willingly believing that magic is real, even if its just for a moment.
A baby born two months premature was assaulted multiple times by his father just days after being brought home, according to Wisconsin police and news reports.

Michael R. Ormond, 39, was charged with two felony counts of child abuse and remains in the Winnebago County jail as of Thursday, Sept. 14, according to court and jail records.

His baby was taken to a Neenah hospital Sept. 7 with substantial bruising throughout his body and a brain bleed, according to a criminal complaint obtained by McClatchy News.

The investigation revealed the baby was born two months prematurely, and Ormond said he had thoughts of harming the child ever since bringing him home from the hospital, court documents show.

Police said the alleged abuse happened nine days after the child was taken home after spending 47 days in the NICU.

The first incident came as Ormonds wife was taking their older children to school, police said. Ormond said he spanked his child three times.

He described holding (the babys) legs with one hand and striking him on the butt three times in his room on the changing table, stating I just gave three whacks, I dont know why, police said in the complaint.

Ormond is believed to have caused a brain bleed to the child later that day when he squeezed the babys legs, arms and back of his neck, detectives say. He also put his hands around his childs mouth and shook the baby, according to the court documents.

The violent acts caused the child to go completely limp and be pale from head to toe, the complaint says.

Michael stated that he has anger issues and (the baby)s crying triggers him, according to court documents. Michael reported that when he hurts (the baby) he gets something like a runners high.

Ormond was a firefighter in Oshkosh but was no longer with the department as of Sept. 11, according to WLUK.

Court records show Ormond is not allowed contact with any children, as well as the mother of his child. He was jailed on a $50,000 bond.

Winnebago County is about 90 miles northwest of Milwaukee.

Mom accused of strangling her 13-year-old son to death in bed, Florida sheriff says

2-year-old strapped to booster seat for 15 hours dies, Florida cops say. Mom charged

Couple said child died in dog attack, Arizona cops say. Now theyre accused of murder
A Dallas police officer was shot while responding to a shooting that killed another person on Thursday afternoon, the police department said in a news release.

Around 1:25 p.m., police were called to the 4800 block of Scyene Road about a shooting.

Officers saw a suspect firing into a vehicle. One person was shot, according to the preliminary investigation.

The shooter then fired at officers and officers returned fire, police said. The suspect fled the scene on foot, and officers chased him to the 4700 block of Second Avenue, about half a mile away from the scene.

The suspect fired again at officers and one was hit in his bullet-proof vest, police said. Both officers returned fire at the suspect.

The officer who was shot was taken to a local hospital and is in stable condition.

The investigation is ongoing. Police were searching for the suspect before he was located and taken into custody in the 2000 block of South Valley Parkway in Lewisville on Thursday evening.

Detectives determined the initial shooting between the suspect and the victim was not random and they knew each other.

The victim died from his injuries. His identity is not being released until next of kin have been notified.

This comes shortly after an incident that injured four Dallas officers early Thursday morning when a pickup truck hit an SUV that police officers were taking cover behind at a shooting scene on Community Drive. The four officers were treated at a hospital and released. A man who was shot in the morning incident was taken to a hospital in stable condition and police arrested a suspect in that shooting.

Thursday afternoons incident is the ninth shooting involving a Dallas police officer in 2023.

More details about the shooting will be released on Monday, Sept. 18, in a news conference with Dallas police chief Eddie Garcia.
Ukrainian servicemen of the Spartan Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine prepare a shell for a D-30 howitzer at a position at a front line in Zaporizhzhia region

Ukrainian servicemen of the Spartan Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine prepare a shell for a D-30 howitzer at a position at a front line in Zaporizhzhia region

By Anna Voitenko

ZAPORIZHZHIA REGION, Ukraine (Reuters) - For soldiers in Ukraine's "Spartan" brigade, danger could lurk behind every bush and in every field as they fight in Kyiv's counteroffensive against deeply entrenched Russian forces.

Progress through vast Russian minefields and heavily fortified defences has been slower than many Ukrainians had hoped since the counteroffensive began in early June.

Members of the Spartan brigade told Reuters in the southern region of Zaporizhzhia that the Russian troops have expert knowledge of the terrain where they are fighting because they have occupied the area for much of the 18-month-old war.

"The difficulty is that the enemy is fully entrenched and has set up minefields. In more than a year-and-a-half of war, their gunners targeted every field in this area," said a Howitzer commander, aged 21, who goes by the call-sign "Jordan".

"They know every inch of the land and target precisely, but we conduct good counter-fire activities and destroy their Howitzers, self-propelled guns and other types of artillery."

Another member of the brigade, Stepan, said advances were slow and methodical.

"Every inch, every field, every bush  someone is waiting for you there, and our forces must go in there to make sure that they are not there any more. Just our boys," he said at a location in the Zaporizhzhia region.

Stepan, 38, was a metal worker before he joined the Spartan brigade, which is part of Ukraine's National Guard, and was apprehensive at first.

"Their treacherous guided aerial bombs fell almost every 15-20 minutes here. You never know where and who this weapon will hit," he said.

"I did not know what to expect. But we got used to it eventually. I think we serve with dignity."

Brigade members are proud of their work.

"When people see Spartan (on your shoulder patch), they recognise you immediately. You dont need to give any extra explanations or explain where you are from. Spartan says it all," said Jordan, who was a medical student before the war.

"One granny gave me an apple and a bun so that I have some food on the way," he said.

(Writing by Ron Popeski, Editing by Timothy Heritage)
Dating on my small college campus is just like high school: filled with gossip and drama. I decided not to date while in college.

I'm a junior at Emerson College and learned dating on campus can be difficult.

When everyone knows everyone, nothing is private  especially your intra-campus romances.

I decided not to date anyone on campus and found it difficult to date outside the Emerson bubble.

Before arriving for my freshman year at Boston's Emerson College, I wasn't worried about the school's small size. With a student population of more than 4,000 students , I figured there was a large enough pool to find people I'd connect with  both platonically and romantically.

This hope was punctuated by my naive assumption that gossip and rumors would be distant memories from my precollege life. But I was wrong.

It's not that I didn't find people I liked. On the contrary, I've met many wonderful people during my first two years at Emerson  many of whom I now consider my closest friends. But dating? That's something I refuse to do on my small college campus.

I quickly learned there's little anonymity when it comes to dating at a small liberal-arts college

In the first months of my freshman year at Emerson, it became clear that my classmates could identify nearly every romantic relationship happening among our peers. I knew intimate details about people I'd never met before.

This closeness means that every coupling begins and ends with baggage at Emerson. I realized that even though I never talked to some of my classmates, I still knew who some of them slept with.

You know the saying, "You never get a second chance to make a good first impression?" At Emerson, one person's first impression of you can spread like wildfire. This culture only exacerbated my anxiety surrounding others' perceptions of me and started making me question simple interactions I had with people I was interested in.

Breakups on my college campus are even messier

When a relationship ends at Emerson, everyone knows about it  most likely hours after it ends. I've watched as my friends speculated about the cause of a random split and tried to draw parallels between separate yet concurrent breakups.

When some of my close friends broke up, mutual friends immediately took sides, cutting themselves off from the other ex and shunning anyone who associated with them. I never would have guessed that one of my friendships would perish as the result of someone else breaking up.

In an attempt to avoid the drama of dating at my school, I decided I wouldn't date any Emersonians

While there were people I was interested in on campus, I made a conscious effort to not pursue those relationships. I felt like dating would be too public, and I didn't want that.

As a result, I tried to navigate other non-Emerson connections, but the process remained difficult. Sure, I can go off-campus and meet someone, but picking up a student at a Northeastern frat party isn't my first choice of meet-cute.

Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge seem safer as there is an underlying expectation associated with these particular apps. You can literally select and advertise whether you are looking for a relationship or not.

However, I hesitated to create a profile on these platforms, uncertain if I would find a meaningful connection. With classes, two jobs, and extracurriculars, it's hard to find the energy to invest in meeting people outside of my school.

But this year, I'm considering making a change

As I start my junior year, I've realized after some reflection that I've spent my first two years of college with one foot in the Emerson dating scene, constantly testing the waters but never quite submerging myself. The same can be said for my voyages beyond the Emerson bubble.

It's become clear that wherever I choose to find a romantic partner, I need to jump in feet first.

Read the original article on Insider
Princess Grace is honored in Philadelphia at a gala celebrating her film career as actress Grace Kelly on March 31, 1982. She died September 14, 1982, when her car plunged off a mountain road by the Cote D'Azur. File Photo by George Bilyk/UPI

Sept. 14 (UPI) -- On this date in history:

In 1901, U.S. President William McKinley died of wounds inflicted by an assassin eight days earlier. He was succeeded by Vice President Theodore Roosevelt.

In 1920, the first live radio dance music was broadcast, carried by a Detroit station and featuring Paul Specht and his orchestra.

In 1959, the Soviet probe Lunik-2 became the first Earth-launched space vehicle to land on the moon.

In 1960, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries was founded.

President George W. Bush leads his staff in a moment of silence on the south lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C., on September 18, 2001, with Vice President Richard Cheney to his left and advisor Karen Hughes to his right. File Photo by Michael Kleinfeld/UPI

OPEC ministers meet in Moscow on December 23, 2008. File Photo by Anatoli Zhdanov/UPI

In 1975, Pope Paul VI canonized Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first American-born saint.

On September 14, 1975, Pope Paul VI canonized Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first American-born saint. File Photo by Stefano Spaziani/UPI

In 1982, Princess Grace of Monaco -- American film actress Grace Kelly -- was killed when her car plunged off a mountain road by the Cote D'Azur. She was 52.

In 1984, Joe Kittinger, 56, left Caribou, Maine, in a 10-story-tall helium balloon to make the first solo trans-Atlantic balloon crossing. He reached the French coast in three days and landed in Italy another day later.

Sarah Shourd (L) listens to her mother Nora speak to the media during her visit north of Tehran, Iran on May 20, 2010. On September 14, 2010, Shourd, imprisoned in Iran on charges of espionage for more than a year after she and two male companions were accused of illegally crossing into Iranian territory, was released on $500,000 bail. File Photo by Maryam Rahmanian/UPI

In 1991, the South African government, ANC, Inkatha Freedom Party and 20 other anti-apartheid groups signed a peace accord to end black factional violence.

In 1996, Bosnians elected a three-person collective presidency: one Muslim, one Serb and one Croat.

A Northwest Airlines airplane approaches a gate at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Va., on December 26, 2009. On September 14, 2005, Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines, the third and fourth largest U.S. air carriers, filed for bankruptcy as the industry reeled under record high jet fuel costs. File Photo by Alexis C. Glenn/UPI

In 2001, U.S. President George W. Bush proclaimed this to be a day of national mourning and remembrance for those killed in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. The FBI identified the hijackers and said several had taken flying lessons in Florida.

In 2003, authorities said an estimated 124 people were dead or missing after South Korea was struck by the most powerful typhoon to hit the country in a century.

People walk passed the Merrill Lynch building at 4 World Trade Center in New York on September 15, 2008. Bank of America agreed to buy Merrill Lynch for about $44 billion in a mega-deal on September 14, 2008. File Photo by Laura Cavanaugh/UPI

In 2005, Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines, the third and fourth largest U.S. air carriers, filed for bankruptcy as the industry reeled under record high jet fuel costs.

In 2008, the U.S. brokerage firm Merrill Lynch agreed to sell itself to Bank of America for $50 billion and Lehman Brothers declared bankruptcy after it failed to find a buyer.

File Photo by Laura Cavanaugh/UPI

In 2010, U.S. hiker Sarah Shourd, imprisoned in Iran on charges of espionage for more than a year after she and two male companions were accused of illegally crossing into Iranian territory, was released on $500,000 bail. The men -- Shane Bauer, her fiance, and Josh Fattal -- were freed just over a year later.

In 2022, the casket carrying Queen Elizabeth II departed Buckingham Palace and arrived at Westminster Hall, where her body lay in state for four days.

File Photo by Annabel Moeller/UK Parliament
Climate change isnt just creating havoc for the living. Its coming for our dead.

Great deluges of rain submerge graves and markers. Swift floods set vaults afloat. Slopes erode in scenic hillside cemeteries. And at the seaside, higher seas and storm surges swamp cemeteries and sweep sand away.

For Sherene Johnsons family, its the rain. Ten members of her family are buried in Brighton Memorial Gardens, a predominantly African American cemetery in Brighton, Alabama.

Parts of the cemetery and the town have flooded in the past but not as often as they do today, said Johnson, a city councilwoman. The flooding routinely submerges the graves of her parents, her siblings and her siblings children.

The anguish it brings to her remaining family members is traumatizing, Johnson said.

FOR SUBSCRIBERS: Climate change is un-burying graves. It's an expensive, 'traumatic,' confounding problem.

Across the country, such heart-rending grief strikes families with increasing frequency as powerful forces rip vaults and caskets from their final resting places.

A coffin juts out of a riverbank in a cemetery high above the Pearl River in Mississippi in this photo by Judy Blair Berry.

For centuries, people have buried their dead in peaceful, scenic spots meant to comfort the living and the spirits of the dead. Today many of those burial grounds rest in precarious positions, subject to rising seas and storm surge, swollen streams, wildfire and a litany of natural disasters made worse by the steady march of a warming climate.

Wild storms and sea level rise are threatening more so than in the past, said Leslee Keys, a historic preservation consultant based in St. Augustine, Florida.

Cemeteries have struggled with neglect, disrepair and periodic flooding, but one expert after another reports the problems are growing worse as warming temperatures fuel more extreme weather.

Orrin Pilkey has traveled the world's beaches studying coasts and barrier islands for 50 years.

We had erosion before global climate change, but now its happening much more rapidly, and shorelines are eroding almost universally because of sea level rise, said Pilkey, an author and emeritus geology professor at Duke University. The magnitude and frequency is a heck of a lot more.

Thousands of graves have been disturbed in cemeteries across the nation in the past 30 years. Flooding, erosion and other climate-related weather disasters have been reported in at least 21 states and 15 countries over the past three decades. Coffins have washed away and bones have been exposed in big cities and tiny hamlets.

Trying to keep things buried that you want to stay buried is often a really big challenge, said Allen Gontz, a professor of applied geology at Clarkson University.

State and local governments, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and cemetery associations already are spending millions to preserve cemeteries and build seawalls, and relocate or rebury remains.

It is absolutely a problem, said Mike Trinkley with the Chicora Foundation, a South Carolina-based group specializing in archaeological research and cemetery preservation. He estimates the cost of relocation and reburial at $8,000 to $10,000 per gravesite.

Gravestones tumble from a bluff

Judy Blair Berry and her husband were motoring along the Pearl River in Copiah County, Mississippi, in May when she looked up from the boat to see a casket jutting out of the bank above the river. Pieces of gravestones lay scattered on the shore. She snapped photos and posted them on Facebook, trying to draw attention to the troubles at historic Catchings Cemetery.

A coffin juts out of a riverbank in a cemetery high above the Pearl River in Mississippi in this photo by Judy Blair Berry.

The Pearl River sees extreme swings in water levels from the control of a dam and reservoir upriver, Berry told USA TODAY. It holds back water when river flow is low, then sends a flush of water downstream when water levels rise.

It just sucks the river banks away, and with it trees and tombstones, she said. No telling how many graves have already been lost to the river.

Mississippi and its neighbors to the north are among the states in the eastern half of the United States experiencing more rainfall extremes since the 1990s, including increases in the number of days with more than an inch of rain.

From coast to coast

Rows of white crosses lean this way and that among gravesites in some cemeteries in Alaska.

In Kongiganak, Alaska, residents had to stop burying their dead in the oldest part of the cemetery because it was sinking as permafrost melted into watery swamp. Digging new graves was making it worse, reported KYUK, an NPR affiliate in Alaska's Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta.

Rising temperatures are thawing the permafrost into watery swamp as the ice underneath melts and loses volume, said Louise Farqurharson, a research assistant professor at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks. Sinking graves are just one of many concerns warming creates for the state's Indigenous communities.

At the opposite corner of the nation, 7.4 inches of rain in a few hours swamped parts of Bay County on Floridas northern Gulf Coast in October 2021. As the skies cleared, Norman Forehand walked through the flooded Callaway Cemetery to check on his father.

The family had already reburied him after an earlier flood and were hoping they werent going to have to do it again, Forehand said. This time, everything was OK.

Callaway City Manager Ed Cook attributed the cemetery flooding in part to a massive loss of trees when Hurricane Michael made landfall in 2018. Cook said the trees had held water and helped prevent flooding.

Michael was among a relentless series of hurricanes and tropical storms that have hit the northern coast of the Gulf of Mexico.

Studies show recent extreme rainfall events such as hurricanes are producing more intense rainfall rates and larger rainfall amounts than they would have without climate change," said Kevin Reed, associate dean for research at Stony Brook University.

DOWNPOUR A USA TODAY investigation reveals a stunning shift in the way rain falls in America.

Western states arent immune, either. Heat and wildfire take a toll, destroying plants and trees and leaving cemeteries susceptible to rain, erosion and mudslides.

Heavy rain along Florida's Panhandle on October 7, 2021 flooded this cemetery in the city of Callaway.

Louisiana's floating caskets

Perhaps nowhere have the effects of climate change had more impact on cemeteries than in Louisiana.

At least 11 hurricanes have pummeled the Bayou State since 2002, disturbing thousands of graves and washing away hundreds of vaults and caskets.

A combination of subsiding land and rising oceans makes matters worse. At least a dozen cemeteries in southern Louisiana parishes have succumbed to rising seas and sinking land, The Associated Press has reported.

Water can infiltrate a burial site in several ways, and each type of casket, whether its sealed, unsealed or inside a vault, can develop issues. For example:

Wooden caskets can decompose and spring leaks.

Air pockets trapped inside above-ground vaults make them more likely to float.

Metal caskets, sometimes called self-sealers, have rubber gaskets, and when funeral homes close them, it creates an airtight compartment  and buoyancy.

If soils get saturated, or if theres enough water for a long period of time, caskets will float.

Anything thats airtight and can develop buoyancy has the potential of resurfacing," Trinkley said. When water fills a grave, whether below ground or in an above-ground vault, that casket is going to float just like a battleship.

And they will float as far and as high as the floodwaters take them, he said. They're sometimes found in tree tops when the water recedes.

Lora Ann Chaisson, principal chief of the United Houma Nation, Louisiana's largest Native American tribe, first remembers seeing caskets piled up after popping out of the ground during Hurricane Juan in 1985 in Grand Caillou, Louisiana. Grim scenes that unfolded in the days ahead are etched into her memory.

Just to see that and to experience that, and have to go through reburying all those folks there, that was horrible, Chaisson said. That still bothers me.

The saddest thing after a hurricane is not losing your home or anything. Its having to rebury your loved ones.

Cultural connections

Historic African American cemeteries and the burial grounds of Indigenous people are often more at risk than others, and those risks are increasing, said Jennifer Blanks, a doctoral candidate at Texas A & M University who studies cemeteries.

The graves and cemeteries may be forgotten on private land, inaccessible or established historically in low-lying locations on land no one else wanted, said Andrea Roberts, an associate professor at the University of Virginia and co-director of its Center for Cultural Landscapes.

Trying to sort out ownership and whos responsible is often difficult and makes protecting cemeteries even more complex, Roberts said. Sometimes, those who serve as caretakers have no legal documentation or proof of ownership. It can be challenging to find the cemeteries, get access and then make sure others can find them on a map.

But these cemeteries are important to the cultural history of communities, telling yet-to-be written stories about the lives of the people who lived and died there, Blanks said. History that can be pieced together from gravesites can be crucial to establishing a communitys history or sense of place.

Cemeteries are often the only way were able to establish a historic Black settlement ever existed, Roberts said. But in Texas, she said, climate change threatens to obliterate cemeteries that are the last remnants of unmarked, historic Black communities.

Eternal rest? Traumatic choices.

The scale of the problem confronting cemeteries is "immense, said David Anderson, professor in the anthropology department at the University of Tennessee. It affects everybody, across the world.

Graves have been lost, flooded or disrupted by rain and storms in at least five countries over the past year, including Nigeria, Thailand and the United Kingdom.

Probably every cemetery thats within a few feet of being flooded is going to be a major challenge, Anderson said. "Some of them are going to be lost.

For one of the Houma nations tribal burial grounds, the elders preferred to leave the dead at rest and undisturbed by allowing the graves to be permanently submerged, Chaisson said. But, she added, "that should never be a decision people have to make."

Addressing the future of cemeteries will require support from the public and politicians, and a move beyond traditional thinking, Anderson said.

Options are available to help protect cemeteries and have been used at some locations in the U.S., including adding seawalls and stabilizing shorelines.

A more complex and expensive step also has been needed in some cemeteries: moving the graves to safer locations.

Trinkley estimates the archaeological cost of recovering remains at about $3,000 a grave, not including the cost of the new burial location or casket.

Depending on circumstances and local rules, total costs can rise to $8,000 to $10,000, he said. When you start looking at the number of dead people on the coast that are susceptible to this issue, the number starts looking astronomical fairly quickly."

Last year, when Johnson took flowers out to the Brighton cemetery to commemorate her sister's birthday, she noticed several of her family members' headstones had been dislodged by flooding. She paid someone about $75 a grave to reset the stones in concrete, again.

She is determined to push her fellow city council members to address the flooding citywide, which she hopes will help the cemetery reduce its flooding, and prepare for future rainfall.

Its hard to call her nephew and other family members to tell them the headstones have to be fixed again, she said. You have to carry that weight, or struggle with that to get it right. Yes, its overwhelming for me, but Id rather carry it than allow them to carry it.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Climate change effects in cemeteries: Floating caskets, missing bodies
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Nevada entrances to Death Valley National Park will remain closed when the park reopens  tentatively an Oct. 15 target to restore partial access.

A news release Wednesday from the park officials indicates parts of California State Route 190 (CA-190) and Death Valley National Park are shooting for the Oct. 15 date, but the only access into the park will be from Lone Pine, California.

The announcement comes as people planning vacations are asking questions on the parks Facebook page. Two people asked Tuesday for more details on whats happening as the park recovers.

Hoping we dont have to cancel our annual camping trip during Thanksgiving week, one comment said.

The park has been fully closed since Aug. 20, when flash floods caused heavy damage as the remnants of Hurricane Hilary dumped an entire years rain in a single day at Death Valley. Flash floods undercut pavement and left collapsed roads across the park. Photos released just after the flood showed the severity of the damage.

Daylight Pass Road damage. (NPS photo)

Emigrant Canyon Road, where flooding undercut the road. (NPS photo)

Standing water and road damage on Badwater Road. (NPS photo)

Pavement damage on CA-190 between Stovepipe Wells and Emigrant. (NPS photo)

Road damage on CA-190 east of Furnace Creek. (NPS photo, Abby Wines)

Flooding at Devils Cornfield off CA-190. (NPS photo)

A lake formed by floodwaters near Badwater in Death Valley (NPS photo)

Mud and undercutting at the Zabriskie Point Trail along one of Death Valleys most popular overlook trails. (NPS photo)

A ranger surveys damage on CA-190. (NPS photo)

Shoulder damage along Beatty Cutoff Road in Death Valley. (NPS photo)

A bench is left on the road after floodwaters carried it away at Badwater. (NPS photo)

Muddy water covers CA-190 near Furnace Creek. (NPS photo)

Flash flooding over Badwater Road near the CA-190 junction. (NPS photo)

Rocks and mud cover the stovepipe Wells area. (NPS photo)

The National Park Service (NPS) and Caltrans said the reopening depends on weather and the availability of materials to repair the highway. When this section of CA-190 reopens, drivers should anticipate multiple 24-hour traffic control points where repair work is ongoing, according to the NPS release.

Lodging, food, and fuel will be available at Panamint Springs Resort, Stovepipe Wells Village, and The Oasis at Death Valley. Some NPS campgrounds will open at the same time, NPS said.

The Furnace Creek Visitor Center was not mentioned in the release.

Nevada entrances to the park will remain closed on Oct. 15, NPS said. Some hiking trailheads will be available, but most secondary roads in the park will still be closed.

A Facebook post on Monday tried to explain the situation to people who dont understand desert flooding. This rain has even more of an impact because the ground here doesnt absorb water like a grassy yard might. Where rich soils tend to soak up water from even heavy rains, Death Valleys rocky soils and steep mountains shed water and send it downhill quickly. You can see evidence of this  it is how Mosaic and Golden Canyons got carved out and how the large alluvial fans across the park were built (and continue to build and move with just an inch or two! of rain), park officials said.

Now, we have alluvial fans that are covering some of our roads (flood debris) and small canyons are starting to get carved (missing asphalt and new ditches). But dont worry, change is part of this ecosystem, and we are working on getting the roads ready to drive again! the post said.

Superintendent Mike Reynolds thanked Caltrans, Federal Highway Administration and NPS staff for their hard work. We look forward to once again welcoming back visitors. We thank everyone for their patience, especially people traveling from Las Vegas or anywhere east of the park.

Staff members from other national parks have been brought in to assist.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
WASHINGTON, D.C.  A father and son from South Jersey want a judge to impose $50 fines for their actions in the U.S. Capitol riot.

A defense attorney for David and Nicholas Krauss argues they should pay the same price as a woman who disrupted a Senate hearing for then Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh in October 2018.

The only difference between the nonviolent January 6 protesters and the nonviolent Kavanaugh protesters is politics, the lawyer, Marina Medvin of Virginia, wrote in sentencing memoranda for the men.

A prosecutor said the Krausses, along with a friend who accompanied them in the Capitol, should be sentenced based on their own conduct and relevant characteristics.

Patrick Stedman faces years in prison Capitol riot defendant from Haddonfield sentenced

But the judge also should give substantial weight to the context of their unlawful conduct: their participation in the January 6 riot, said Assistant U.S. Attorney Carolina Nevin.

Her sentencing memorandum noted the men entered the Capitol very close in time to the initial breach, and they were inside the Crypt as the mass of rioters overran the police who were trying to bar further entrance into the building.

Detention sought for David, Nicholas Krauss and Russell Dodge Jr.

Nevin requested home detention of 90 days for David Krauss, 56, of Sewell, and 75 days for his son, Nicholas Krauss, 32, of Pitman.

She asked for 90 days of home detention for the third man, Russell Dodge Jr., 40, of Pedricktown.

An attorney for Dodge has requested a one-year probationary term for his client.

The three men, who were arrested in November 2022, pleaded guilty in May to a misdemeanor charge of parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building.

In her filings, Medvin asserted the prosecutions broad-brush view of the January 2021 riot ignores the particularized perspective of the individuals in the crowd who came to protest lawfully but who followed the crowd into an unlawful demonstration inside of the Capitol.

She said the men engaged in no violence or vandalism while spending about 16 minutes in the Capitols hallways, and that they obeyed law enforcement officers who told them to leave the building.

But the prosecutions filing countered, When they entered, there was broken glass from the windows on the floor, and the alarm was sounding."

It also said the absence of vandalism or violence is not a mitigating factor for misdemeanor defendants.

Photos show defendants' lives, images of rioters

Medvins filings include multiple photos of David Krauss, a father of two and grandfather of five, and Nicholas Krauss, whose second child was born in June.

The men operate a home construction and repair business that was founded by the father, who is also a landlord.

Dodge is a landlord with almost 40 housing units, according to a court filing.

But each of Medvins filings also included more than 20 pages, also with photos, that alleged more lenient treatment was afforded to people arrested at the Kavanaugh hearings and at disturbances that followed Black Lives Matter demonstrations in Minneapolis, Portland, Seattle and Washington, D.C.

This wildly inequitable and disparate treatment is inexplicable in any way other than political bias, said Medina, whose website identifies her as a member of the Republican Natonal Lawyers Association.

The South Jersey men are to be sentenced Friday, Sept. 15, by U.S. District Judge James Boasberg in Washington, D.C.

The prosecution also is seeking 60 hours of community service for each defendant.

The men have already paid $500 each in restitution for damage caused by rioters.

The prosecution requested a shorter term of home detention for Nicholas Krauss because he has expressed remorse, Nevin said.

She noted the son had written in a letter to the judge, If I knew what was going to take place that day I would have never left my house.

Nevin said David Krauss had shown weak remorse and Dodge had expressed none.

Jim Walsh is a senior reporter with the Courier-Post, Burlington County Times and The Daily Journal. Email: Jwalsh@cpsj.com.

This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: David and Nicholas Krauss want to pay a fine for Capitol riot actions
The DeKalb County Board of Health announced that a human case of West Nile virus was detected in the county Wednesday.

Officials said Thursday the case was the first infection in the county for the year, and that no cases of West Nile virus had been detected in DeKalb since 2020, until now.

The confirmed case was detected in a male patient in their 20s, according to a statement from the DeKalb County Board of Health.

Board of Health officials said they are also investigating two unrelated West Nile cases, one in the Lake Claire area and one in the North Druid Hills area.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

According to the board, larvicide application has been used in low-lying areas and storm drains throughout the county, including areas where the cases were detected.

Larvicide is a process used to keep young mosquitoes from becoming flying, biting adults, according to the county.

While West Nile, COVID-19, and other similar coronaviruses share similar symptoms, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and PRevention said no evidence suggests COVID or other coronaviruses are spread by mosquitoes.

Due to the similar symptoms, DeKalb health officials said it is important to have symptoms evaluated by a medical professional, especially if youve spent extended time outdoors without wearing insect repellant.

TRENDING STORIES:

STORY 1

STORY 2

STORY 3

To help keep mosquitoes out of your homes and away from your families, the DeKalb Board of Health provided the following tips:

Reduce mosquito breeding in your yard by eliminating standing water in gutters and items such as planters, toys, wheelbarrows and old tires.

Discourage mosquitoes from resting in your yard by trimming tall grass, weeds and vines.

Make sure window and door screens fit tightly to keep mosquitoes out of your home

Additionally, they gave tips to keep mosquitoes from biting you:

Reduce outdoor exposure at dawn and dusk, when the mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus are most active.

Use an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535. Apply according to label instructions.

Spray clothing with products containing permethrin. Also apply according to label instructions.

Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when outdoors, particularly at dawn and dusk and in areas with large numbers of mosquitoes.

More information about West Nile virus can be found online, and the DeKalb County Board of Healths Environmental Health Division can be called at 404-508-7900.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

OTHER NEWS:
A Bear resident who was attending an ugly-sweater party at a Philadelphia museum when he stole the thumb of an ancient statue of a Chinese warrior was sentenced to probation last week.

Michael Rohana, 29, once faced decades in prison for snapping off and stealing the thumb of the statue, which dates to the 3rd Century B.C., and was on loan to the Franklin Institute from China.

He pleaded guilty to a federal misdemeanor in April 2023. That followed a mistrial on far more serious charges that could have landed him in prison for years.

How he pocketed a stolen finger

Prosecutors said Rohana had driven from Bear with his friends to attend the after-hours party at the Philadelphia museum in December 2017. At some point, he went past the guard ropes into the exhibit, which was closed during the party he was attending.

The exhibit displayed 10 terra-cotta warriors from the burial site of Chinas first emperor in Xian, part of the Shaanxi Province.

Wearing a red Phillies hat and green sweater, he took selfies and eventually broke off the thumb of a statue known as the Cavalryman, prosecutors said in court documents.

Plea coverage: Delaware man admits stealing thumb from Chinese warrior statue at The Franklin Institute

He pocketed the finger and ran to return to his friends, prosecutors said in court documents.

"He woke up the next day hungover, extremely scared, and immediately regretted his conduct," his defense attorney wrote in a court filing.

A photo shows the thumb that was later taken from a statue at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia.

Prosecutors said evidence showed Rohana did not attend the party with the intent of stealing any artifact, but surveillance footage of Rohana moving about the museum also did not indicate he was intoxicated.

FBI agents visited his home the next month, leading him to turn over the thumb he had kept stored in a desk drawer, according to court filings.

He initially was charged with the theft and concealment of an object of cultural heritage from a museum, as well as interstate transportation of stolen property.

Restitution could total $50,000

Given his plea, Rohana faced a maximum of one year imprisonment when sentenced last week.

In court filings, his defense attorneys argued that he "deeply regrets his conduct in this case," that the crime was an aberration and that he fully cooperated with authorities once they knocked on his door.

Court documents describe Rohana as living with his parents and now working for a local HVAC company after working in the shoe department at a local Boscov's for years.

The case has been pending for more than five years and Rohana has complied with the terms of his release, his attorneys wrote, arguing that further punishment was not necessary.

Prosecutors argued for a sentence between zero and six months of imprisonment.

In paperwork filed ahead of Rohana's sentencing hearing, they argued that the crime was serious and quoted a statement by the Qin Shi Huang Imperial Mausoleum, which loaned the pieces to the Franklin Institute.

The statement noted that the piece was one of only six comparable that have been excavated and will never be publicly displayed again because of the damage. The damage itself will also reduce the "life expectancy" of the statute, which the museum regards as "a piece of Chinese cultural heritage."

When it happened: Delaware man's thumb prank fractures U.S.-China relations

Ultimately, the judge opted for five years of probation and a $5,000 fine. Prosecutors noted that Rohana's primary financial asset is a $32,500 collection of Nike and Air Jordan sneakers.

He will also be forced to pay restitution for the repair of the statue as well as the installation of barricades in the museum. Those costs totaled about $50,000, according to court documents.

The total amount of restitution the court will impose upon Rohana will be decided at a hearing next month.

Contact Xerxes Wilson at (302) 324-2787 or xwilson@delawareonline.com.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware man who stole ancient Chinese artifact sentenced to probation
Deep in the Australian outback, the scorching town of Alice Springs hosts their annual boat regatta, Henley-on-Todd. But this is not your average day of boat racing, because it takes place on dry land! This mad idea came to life way back in 1962, when Reg Smith, a local member of the Alice Springs Rotary club, wanted a new way to raise money for charity. Since then, the festival has evolved into an epic day of events where teams race against each other in bottomless boats, kayaks and yachts. The day ends with an epic battle of three boats, crewed by life-long rivals: the pirates, the navy and the vikings.
Editor's Note: The story is based on the documentary Bullet Holes, published by the Kyiv Independent's War Crimes Investigations Unit.

On a cold March morning, the Mahdyk family bundled themselves into their minivan. Their village near Kyiv was occupied, and they couldnt bear staying there any longer.

The family  mother Olha, father Valerii, and their two children, 16-year-old Anna and 12-year-old Vladyslav  decided to try to escape the horrors of Russian occupation and nearby fighting.

"We'd had enough of sleeping in the basement," recalls Anna.

The family set off in their minivan to unoccupied territory on March 9, 2022, placing a sign on its windscreen reading "Children" in Russian. They thought it would protect them.

On their way, the family ran into a Russian military convoy.

The Mahdyks stopped, turned their car around, and began driving back. The Russian troops pursued them and opened fire. A single bullet hit the car, went through Anna's body, and killed her younger brother Vladyslav.

I kept saying to him: Get up, its safe now, Anna says. He wasnt answering.

Vladyslav is one of over 500 Ukrainian children who have been killed by the Russian army since the beginning of the full-scale invasion on Feb. 24, 2022.

Most of the children have died in Russian missile or artillery attacks, but dozens have been gunned down with small arms at close range. The murders were perpetrated by different Russian units in different regions of Ukraine, but they all seem to share the same purpose  to induce terror.

The Kyiv Independent documented three cases of deliberate murder of children committed by different Russian units in different parts of Ukraine. In one case, the unit commander was identified by name and rank.

Oleksandra Matviichuk, the head of the Center for Civil Liberties and one of the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize winners, sees the child murders as part of a deliberate terror policy pursued by Russia's army in Ukraine. She considers these war crimes to be part of Russian military culture.

"Russian troops have committed horrible crimes in Chechnya, Syria, Georgia, Mali, Libya, and elsewhere," Matviichuk says. "They have never been punished. They believe they're allowed to do anything. This impunity, this long tradition of impunity, has become part of Russian culture."

An illustration showing Russian soldiers chasing and shooting at the Mahdyk family's car. (Yehor Kucheruk)

Murdering Vlad

After their car was shot at, the Mahdyk family didn't immediately realize what happened. Anna was injured, and Vladyslav was unconscious on her lap.

The family returned home. Only then did they realize that Vladyslav was dead.

There was no time to process these events  they now had to save the wounded Anna. Her mother decided to take her to a hospital in the Russian-occupied nearby town, Bucha. The father stayed with the body of his dead son.

An illustration reconstructing the murder of Vladyslav Mahdyk. (Yehor Kucheruk)

"I'd already prepared myself for the worst, that I might die," Anna said. Before leaving, she gave her father her phone and told him to give it to her best friend, who was the only one who knew her password.

On their way to the hospital, they were stopped at a Russian checkpoint by men from Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov's Akhmat Battalion. The mother begged them to save her daughter. They agreed to provide medical assistance to Anna.

They also turned it into a show, filming the whole process. Soon, a post appeared on Kadyrov's Telegram channel claiming that Anna and Vladyslav had been shot by Ukrainian troops despite the area being fully controlled by Russia.

Read also: Stolen generation. Russia systematically abducts children from Ukraine, gives them to Russian families

The Mahdyk family rejects these allegations.

"There couldn't possibly have been any Ukrainians in the occupied territories who could have done this to us," Anna said. "Of course, it was the Russians who did it."

Despite the seemingly obvious nature of the crime, its not easy to prosecute it.

"There's a great deal of difficulty with the absence of any additional sources of information in order to be able to reconstruct all the events that took place there," said Dmytro Zhytnyk, a Ukrainian prosecutor leading this case.

The only witnesses are the victims themselves, Zhytnyk added.

Yet Olha Mahdyk still hopes for justice for her dead son.

"I want them to be held accountable for what they did," she told the Kyiv Independent. "We didn't give birth to our children, our sons, so that they would get shot and killed."

Shooting the innocent

The murder of Vladyslav Mahdyk is far from a standalone case. Murdering children is a systematic practice committed by Russian troops all over Ukraine.

The Kyiv Independent confirmed the deliberate murder of 10-year-old Kateryna Vinarska in Kharkiv Oblast and 15-year-old Mykhailo Ustianivsky in Kherson Oblast.

On the first day of the full-scale invasion, the Kharkiv apartment building of Kateryna Vinarska and her parents, Oksana and Artem, was damaged by a Russian attack.

Oksana and Artem hurried to send their daughter to her maternal grandparents in the village of Novyi Burluk, about 60 kilometers east of the city. It seemed like a safer option.

However, the village was quickly overrun by invading Russian troops. The very next day, Oksana received a call that her daughter was killed.

"I was just starting my shift," Oksana, who works in a hospital, said. "My mom called me and said: 'Dear, I'm sorry, Katia is gone."

Read also: Why Russias war in Ukraine is not Putins war (VIDEO)

The Russian military had entered the village on the morning of Feb. 25, the second day of the invasion.

Later that day, the grandparents were driving with Kateryna across the village. Suddenly, their car came under fire from Russian troops. A shabby red car with a child in the backseat, it couldnt have been mistaken for a non-civilian vehicle.

After the attack, Kateryna reached for her grandmother.

"She said, 'Granny, look, and lifted her shirt, Maria Kivshar said, bursting into tears. There was a tiny hole.

One of the bullets hit the girl.

Kateryna was taken to a Russian military medic, stationed with the troops in the village. He told them they had three hours to get the child to a hospital. They drove away.

An illustration showing Kateryna Vinarska held by her grandfather after she was shot by Russian soldiers. (Yehor Kucheruk)

But the family never made it to a hospital.

The next Russian military group they saw stopped the car and refused to let them pass.

As the grandparents were begging to let the car through, the Russian troops came under fire from the flank and opened fire in their turn  but at the civilian car.

This time, bullets hit everyone in the car. The grandparents were injured, but Kateryna was shot in the head. She died on the spot.

The grandparents returned to the village to bury their granddaughter.

Local resident Anatolii Protsenko told the Kyiv Independent that the same Russian medic who treated Kateryna after the first attack told him the girl was mortally wounded and didn't have a chance to survive.

"He said she had been shot in the liver, the blood was black. He said they wouldn't make it to the hospital on time," Protsenko recalled.

Hunting for children

Mykhailo Ustianivsky was 15 years old when he was gunned down by Russian soldiers in his home village in the southern Kherson Oblast.

On April 15, 2022, over a month after the village was occupied, Ustianivsky went to receive "humanitarian aid" distributed by the Russians. His friend Anatolii Taran, of the same age, went with him.

On their way, the two boys ran into Russian military vehicles  and got scared. They turned back and started running away. Russian soldiers ran after them and started shooting. The whole scene was witnessed by Mykola Rizak, a local resident.

"There were a hundred of those soldiers. They surrounded the territory and started shooting! And the two boys were running They were basically being hunted," Rizak told the Kyiv Independent.

The chase ended when Ustianivsky was hit and fell.

Taran thought that he was pretending. But when he turned Ustianivsky on his back, he realized his friend was dying.

The Russian soldiers immediately took Ustianivsky's body and drove away. Four days passed before Ustianivsky's parents found their son's body in a morgue in Nova Kakhovka, an occupied city 80 kilometers away from the village of Havrylivka, on the other side of the Dnipro River.

According to locals, Russians were visibly worried that the murder of a child could make the village rise against them. So in the first hours after the murder, they tried to justify it  there was a talk of the boys taking photos of the Russian troops before running away. When Ustianivskys phone was searched, there were no such photos there, according to local citizens.

Read also: Escape from Kupiansk: How one cop tricked the Russians

Commandant Suren

Local resident Mykola Rizak and Ustianivsky's grandparents say that the Russian unit that killed the boy was led by a man named Suren. He was introduced to the locals as a "commandant" appointed by the Russians.

"If it were not for him, our grandson would still be alive," Ustianivsky's grandmother Nina said. They dont know who Suren was.

Oleh Baturyn, an investigative journalist now documenting Russian war crimes, heard about one "commandant Suren" from other residents of Kherson Oblast.

"They said that this so-called Suren was extremely cruel," Baturyn told the Kyiv Independent. "And they told stories about rape. He could take the women or girls that he liked and bring them to the positions of Russian soldiers and just leave them there for the night."

This matches what Mykhailo Ustianivsky's grandparents say about the Suren that was in control of their village.

"They told me he raped a girl, a schoolgirl, in Oleksandrivka They say he'd done a lot of bad things," Mykhailo's grandfather  also Mykhailo Ustianivsky  said.

The Kyiv Independent couldn't independently verify these claims.

By interviewing residents of Kherson Oblast and collecting open-source data, Baturyn was able to identify the so-called "commandant." His full name is Suren Mkrtchian  a lieutenant colonel in a unit based in the Russian-occupied part of Ukraine's Donetsk Oblast.

Witness accounts provided by the residents of the village of Havrylivka  Rizak and Mykhailo Ustianivsky's grandparents  point at Suren Mkrtchian, who oversaw the area, as the one responsible for the murder of Mykhailo Ustianivsky.

Long wait for justice

Any prospect of justice in these cases remains far off. Meanwhile, the families of the killed children have to get on with their own lives.

The parents of 15-year-old Ustianivsky from Kherson Oblast found it too painful to talk to the Kyiv Independent. The boy's grandmother still finds it difficult to even look at his photo.

"I can't look at it. My soul hurts," she said, her eyes full of tears. "I would run into the kitchen  we have photos with him there  would glance at it, kiss it, and run out. My soul hurts for him so much, he was such a child."

Kateryna Vinarska's parents in Kharkiv dream of having another child.

"If God allows it, we will try to have another child," Oksana said. Her husband hopes that a new baby can help them move on.

But Katia is always in our thoughts, her mother said. She will be with us forever.

Meanwhile, Vladyslav Mahdyk's family in Kyiv Oblast have adopted a boy  a 12-year-old Oleksandr. They had planned to adopt a child before the full-scale war, and Vladyslav had said he wanted a younger brother.

Oleksandr knows everything about how his would-be-brother was killed, their mother says. Hes been to Vladyslavs grave.

Yesterday, he said: 'Mommy, Vlad lived so little, only 12 years," Olha said, choking on tears.

These three child murders by the Russian military occurred in different regions of Ukraine and at different times, but all three were deliberate murders targeting children, pointing at their systemic nature.

"The crimes against civilians are committed in all regions, by all military personnel  and these crimes continue," said Matviichuk, the head of the Center for Civil Liberties and Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

"We're ready to prove it, and we will do it in international courts, in national courts, because it's time to break this circle of impunity and this cruelty that has become a part of Russian culture."

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
DELPHI, Ind.  Richard Allen, the accused killer of Libby German and Abby Williams, wants news cameras and public broadcastings of his pretrial and trial, according to a motion filed Wednesday.

"The facts and circumstances surrounding this case have attracted the attention of the public on a national level and even the attention of others around the globe," the motion states. "As a result of this attention, the system of jurisprudence in the State of Indiana will be scrutinized in a manner that is unusual and rare in Indiana courts."

Allen is charged with two counts of murder. He's accused of luring the girls off the Monon High Bridge trail the afternoon of Feb. 13, 2017, and killing Libby, 14, and Abby, 13, on the north bank of the Deer Creek about a quarter of a mile from the bridge.

Richard Allen's attorneys took this photo April 4, 2023, of the man accused of the Delphi killings of teenagers Libby German and Abby Williams. He appears to have lost a significant amount of weight in his five months in prison segregation. He appears to have spittle on his shirt under his chin. Allen exhibits what his attorneys describe as "schizophrenic and delusional."

The girls' killer evaded police for years. Police arrested Allen on Oct. 26, and prosecutors charged him Oct. 28.

An unfired semiautomatic bullet found between the girls' bodies has tool markings indicating it was ejected from a pistol owned by Allen, according to the prosecutor's probable cause affidavit.

The motion to allow cameras was filed Wednesday and published in the online docket on Thursday. Special Judge Frances Gull has not yet ruled on the motion, according to the online docket.

Gull's Allen County court was part of Indiana's recent pilot programs to explore allowing cameras and recordings in courtrooms.

The motion notes that the courts should be transparent so people can witness the judicial system.

"A highly and effective way to do this is to proactively take steps to disseminate information in high profile/high stakes cases," the motion states. "This prevents interested individuals from having to search the internet looking for information about the case which may come from bias sources that substitute commentary for fact," the motion argues.

The motion notes that the Carroll County courtroom is large enough to accommodate the broadcast teams without being a distraction. Additionally, the motion presents the argument that the witnesses who were juvenile at the time of the killings are now adults, so concealing their identities is not an issue.

Allen's attorneys also filed an amended motion to suppress evidence from the Oct. 13 search at Allen's Delphi home. The original motion to suppress was filed May 19.

The amended motion to suppress expands on the points from the motion filed in the spring.

The amended motion alleges that the search warrant was improper because the probable cause affidavit to get the warrant failed to include material facts for the warrant and "made false and misleading representations with a reckless disregard for the truth," the motion states.

"Without these false and misleading representations and omissions, a search warrant would not have been issued," according to Allen's filing.

The motion includes a list of allegations of how the affidavit failed to rise to the issuance of a search warrant.

"(T)he search of Defendant Allen's home, pursuant to the search warrant, was unreasonable and thus violated Article 1, Section 11 of the Indiana Constitution and the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution," the motion concludes.

Allen's trial is scheduled to begin on Jan. 8 in Fort Wayne, where a jury will be selected.

Because of the pretrial publicity this case has drawn over the last six years, it was decided that impartial jurors from Carroll County could not be found. Therefore, the jurors will come from Allen County.

After the jury is picked, the trial will move to Carroll County, where it will remain until a verdict is reached.

Reach Ron Wilkins at rwilkins@jconline.com. Follow on Twitter: @RonWilkins2.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Accused Delphi killer Richard Allen asks for cameras in courtroom
Florida Democrat Jared Moskowitz accused Republicans of hypocrisy regarding the Biden impeachment.

Mr Muskowitz was taking part in a hearing of the Committee on Oversight and Accountability on Wednesday morning when he argued that Republicans were guilty of hypocrisy as they accused President Joe Biden of benefiting from suspicious foreign interests.

We sit here, we hear our colleagues bring up certain things like, Oh, the Biden family took money from a foreign entity, he said with mock concern.

I mean, do they really not know that Jared Kushner took $2bn from the Saudis? They go on Twitter and blame the Saudis for 9/11. But then Jared Kushner, who, by the way, was not a wealth expert, before he worked in the White House, nor was he a Middle East expert, before he worked there, gets $2bn from the Saudis, and they don't have any questions.

I just think that the American people recognise that they have no credibility, he added. Its why the stuff theyve been selling in this committee for nine months, has not translated which is why they're gonna start it all over again. You don't have any credibility when you only want to look at one side of the coin.

Last month, the top Democrat on the Oversight Committee asked the panels chairman to compel Mr Kushners investment firm to disclose information about the funding it has received from foreign countries.

In a letter to Chairman James Comer, Ranking Member Jamie Raskin asked the Kentucky Republican to approve a subpoena to Mr Kushners firm, A Fin Management LLC, regarding what he described as extraordinary funding which the relatively new investment venture took in from Saudi Arabian and Qatari sovereign wealth funds in the months after Mr Kushner and his father-in-law, former president Donald Trump, left the White House.

Moskowitz: Republicans go on Twitter and blame the Saudis for 9/11 but Jared Kushner gets $2 billion from the Saudis and they dont have any questions pic.twitter.com/76z9bsmMfC  Acyn (@Acyn) September 13, 2023

Mr Raskin said efforts by Democrats on the Oversight Committee, some dating back to mid-2022, have been unsuccessful in obtaining the information he and his colleagues are seeking because Mr Kushner and his company have refused to cooperate with our requests for relevant documents to understand the full scope of Mr Kushners foreign business dealings and the legal, constitutional, and ethical problems they create.

I am encouraged by your recent acknowledgement that what Kushner did crossed the line of ethics and your repeated assertions that our Committee is investigating foreign nationals attempts to target and coerce high-ranking U.S. officials family members by providing money or other benefits in exchange for certain actions, he wrote.

I therefore urge you to use the Committees subpoena power to compel Affinity to produce the information this Committee needs to conduct a full and fair investigation into whether Mr Kushner improperly used his position as a senior government official to benefit his personal financial and business interests  information Mr. Kushner and Affinity have unjustifiably refused to produce for over a year.

At the time Mr. Kushner transitioned from the White House to the private sector, diplomats and ethics experts raised their concerns about the glaring potential conflicts of interest arising from Mr. Kushners financial interests in the Gulf region. Moreover, his extensive and successful courting of sovereign wealth funds raises significant legal, constitutional, and ethical questions, given his key governmental role shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Trump Administration, he added.

Mr Raskin also noted that multiple news outlets have reported that Mr Kushners post-White House business venture now controls approximately $3bn in assets, with 99 per cent of that amount attributable to clients who are non-United States persons.

He added that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans reported personal intervention to ensure the Saudi sovereign wealth fund invested with Mr Kushner raises the significant possibility that there was a large quid pro quo shaping Mr Kushners official actions in the White House, given the ex-Trump aides work to dramatically recast U.S. foreign policy toward Saudi Arabia, and cited Mr Kushners support for bin Salman in the wake of the state-sanctioned murder of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi, as well as his support for Saudi Arabias blockade of Qatar, a major US ally.
WASHINGTON (Nexstar)  Democrats and the Biden Administration are again trying to renew the expanded child tax credit.

New figures show that since it ended, child poverty has doubled.

New Jersey Senator Cory Booker (D) says Congress allowed child poverty to spike.

This moral obscenity of the richest nation in the world having the highest poverty rates is not an accident., he said.

New data from the Census Bureau shows the U.S. child poverty rate more than doubled last year when the expanded child tax credit expired.

Weve got children in my district that are struggling to find where their next meal is coming from, said Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.)

The program expired when Democratic Senator Joe Manchin joined Republicans in blocking an extension. Now, Democrats are renewing their push to restore it.

This worked. It lifted half of our kids out of poverty, said Rep. Rosa De Lauro (D-Conn.). I dont know what more people need.

Republican Congressman Dan Mueser says there are still options for tackling child poverty.

As long as we put the money in the right spot, I would be for helping those families and children and lifting them up, he said.

Opponents say entitlement programs like the expanded child tax credit are too costly and contribute too much to the ballooning national debt. But Booker argues the price tag of not acting is even greater.

Costing us a trillion dollars to our economy, children who grow up below the poverty line have higher healthcare costs, have worse performance in schools, have lower productivity and often have higher rates of criminality, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) is set to meet again to discuss the status of the 2024 New Hampshire primary amid an internal party dispute that has stoked tensions between members and the Biden administration.

The Rules and Bylaws Committee, a regulatory body with power over the early state process, could consider long-awaited proposed changes to the Granite States first-in-the-nation designation Thursday.

The meeting is mired in unknowns. Could there be a concerted push for another extension or a write-in effort? Will officials make a play for a party-run primary? Uncertain what to expect, Democrats are bracing for a variety of possibilities.

Its so, so shortsighted, Cullen Tiernan, a labor advocate based in Concord, said about the DNCs proposed reshuffle, airing frustration that many activists have shared leading up to Election Day.

The process has been complex and drawn out, becoming an increasing point of contention between President Bidens allies, local leaders and even the presidents Democratic rivals who want to protect the 1920s voting tradition.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Bidens direct Democratic opponent and one of the leading voices raising concerns over the New Hampshire primary, sees the process as unfairly skewed towards getting the incumbent president nominated.

In an interview with The Hill, Dennis Kucinich , a former longtime Ohio congressman and presidential contender now serving as Kennedys campaign manager, outlined what he believes is most problematic for New Hampshire playing out in a chaotic fashion.

The DNC itself is affiliated with tunnel vision, Kucinich said. Theyre thinking only of the primary and trying to lock in President Bidens constantly eroding position. And as a result, theyve overlooked what ought to be the first and foremost concern, and that is New Hampshires four electoral votes.

New Hampshire has only a handful of electoral votes to help round out a candidates pathway towards victory. But in a close contest, some Democrats believe that the likely early primary demotion could have an unintended consequence for their side in November.

This is literally playing with fire, Kucinich added. It reveals an alarming shortsightedness and almost a craven indifference.

The DNC has stipulated that all states need to formally apply for their status this cycle, even those that have historically competed early. While Democrats elsewhere in places like Iowa and Nevada have made their displeasure known, New Hampshire Democrats have been the most vocal against the national partys new posture.

Over months of meetings and public discord, New Hampshire leaders have consistently noted that their early voting privilege is written into state law and should be exempt from the DNCs proposed changes. The disagreement has been unsettling for Democrats who otherwise support Biden and want to see him secure the White House for a second time.

The Rules Committee noted that it intends to continue its review of state 2024 National Convention Delegate Selection plans, including plans deferred at the last meeting in a release, but multiple Democratic sources said they were unaware of more specific details.

While New Hampshire Democrats dont know exactly what to expect from the meeting, they do believe that their primary will go on as planned, even if the lead-up is murky.

We fully intend to have the primary, of course, said Colin Booth, communications director of the New Hampshire Democratic Party. Its a state-run primary. Its something that the secretary of state sets.

We plan to be in full compliance with state law, he said.

While the concerns have gotten some airtime and annoyed Biden and his allies, top party officials stress they are confident that their push wont ruin things for the presidents reelection effort. They view their lobbying to be separate from Bidens campaign and have overwhelmingly backed him, maintaining the motivation to keep former President Trump away is paramount.

Without a doubt President Biden will be renominated in Chicago by acclamation, Ray Buckley, New Hampshires veteran Democratic Party chairman who has been supportive of Biden, told The Hill.

His presidency has accomplished such historic success across the board that he will be greeted with a heros welcome, he said.

Buckley has seen scores of Democrats come and go as voters have flexed their vetting power year after year. Although Biden came behind neighboring state Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), former South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg and other candidates during the last primary election, Democrats didnt need any convincing that he was the right candidate in the general election.

That loyalty has endured during his first term, even as he struggles to break out of his roughly 40 percent approval ratings at the national level.

Joe Biden will win the primary whether his name is on the ballot or not, Buckley said, alluding to the idea that he may not actually appear as a candidate and could be considered a write-in.

Like many swing state Democrats, Buckley emphasized that New Hampshire Democrats are more concerned with things like womens rights  which they say have come under attack under GOP Gov. Chris Sununu  public education and protecting norms around democracy after Jan. 6, 2021. Buckley added that hes much less focused on what a group of D.C. insiders are doing in regard to the rules gathering in Washington.

The kerfuffle around the DNCs rules debate has nonetheless been noticed beyond the Beltway for months. The grumbling started in earnest when national officials embraced Bidens push for South Carolina to replace Iowa and New Hampshire last December, prompting an outcry from others who vowed to press on for their traditional slots.

Biden allies and others saw it as one step towards adding more diversity to the primary, and while many New Hampshire Democrats see that side, they are also upset with what they perceive as a disregard of their history. Their persistence has meant bumping heads with the White House in the process.

The mere pretense of it is astonishing, said Kucinich. It could cost the Democrats the presidency. Theres four electoral votes, and in a close election, New Hampshire can make the difference. Its fundamentally wrong.

While many in the party downplay Kennedys concerns, the presidential candidate is not the only Democrat in the running whos upset. Marianne Williamson, a spiritual author also primarying against Biden, has been consistent in her condemnation of the way the DNC conducts the business of primaries  from the changing calendar to the lack of debates.

Off the campaign trail, the debate has even stretched to the halls of Congress. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, has lobbied to make sure New Hampshire is one of several contests thats allowed to vote early.

Ro has been pushing for a solution to make sure that New Hampshire, South Carolina, Nevada and Michigan are all in the early state lineup given the current state laws, Khannas campaign spokesperson told The Hill.

Khanna has been to the state numerous times in recent months, simultaneously pitching Bidens reelection campaign and a populist economic argument. He hopes there can be consensus around the early order, the spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, multiple sources also said they are concerned about how the change in order may upend other ballots, including local races that are expected to impact the states day-to-day governing.

Democrats have consistently tried to nudge enough voters who are on the sidelines and lean independent to vote blue, and have been successful in that regard. In 2022, Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) won reelection against Trump-aligned Don Bolduc after speculation that her Senate seat may flip red. And Rep. Chris Pappas won New Hampshires 1st District over Karoline Leavitt, who is now a spokesperson for Make America Great Again Inc.

But Democrats stress theres no guarantee that the state will continue to trend blue. Fears over potential implications for Biden and down-ballot candidates have persisted as the DNC has met several times to discuss rules changes.

Wait a minute, Kucinich warned. This isnt only about a primary. This is about a general election.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams s confrontation with the Biden administration over immigration threatens to spill over to the 2024 campaign, causing a major headache for the president at a time when he needs Democrats to rally around him.

Adams has been quick to bash the administrations immigration policies when faced with the unprecedented influx of migrants coming into New York City, leaving many Democrats worried that his combative approach could steer voters away from Biden in key areas of the citys suburbs  home to districts that are essential to Democrats looking to flip the House.

The situation in [New York] is a liability for Biden. It threatens to excite the Republican base, and dampen the Democratic base, a former Democratic campaign official said.

The approximately 100,000 migrants who have arrived in New York City over the last year have led Adams to contend that the issue would destroy his city.

The New York-Washington rift has also underscored Democratic demands on immigration.

Work permits. I think that thats the most immediate need, said Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.), who on Friday, along with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), led a group of 13 House Democrats from border districts and migrant-receiving cities to neighborhoods impacted by the influx of migrants.

Many Democrats see executive actions to expand the number of migrants who can legally work in the United States as the antidote to the public headbutting between Adams and the administration.

Theyve called on Biden to expand Temporary Protected Status (TPS), a program that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the United States if repatriation presents a risk.

Biden administration officials are wary of expanding TPS too quickly and tying up the entire program in litigation, mirroring court action that prevented the Trump administration from dramatically shrinking TPS.

Yet TPS and other measures to make more work permits available could ease the strain on shelter space ahead of winter, and ahead of key elections in the state.

But Adams seems unconcerned about elections and laser focused on the citys fiscal state.

The mayors a straight shooter and I think more often than not, hes more focused on his job as mayor rather than his word choice. Would it be helpful if he were a bit more tactful? Absolutely, said one former New York politician.

Adams hasnt spoken with Biden since earlier this year, but he told WABC on Tuesday that he spoke recently to Bidens chief of staff, Jeff Zients.

Former New York Rep. Joe Crowley (D), who was the No. 4 in Democratic leadership, argued the communications breakdown between the mayors office and the White House might not be as dire as it seems.

There certainly has been some kind of a breakdown if you see the mayor acting the way he has, and its understandable because there is a crisis and concern about the safety of these individuals as well, he said. But, theres more behind the scenes than whats happening on the front pages of newspapers between the state, city and the fed.

The tension comes as Democrats see winning back seats in New York lost in 2022 as a pathway towards winning back the House. Theyre targeting the seats in districts Biden won in 2020, like those held by Republican Reps. George Santos, Anthony DEsposito and Mike Lawler.

The seat held by Santos, who is facing personal and legal troubles, is in a district Biden won by 10 points. Biden won DEspositos district, one of the wealthiest districts in New York and the country, by 14 points, and he won Lawlers district by more than 20 points.

Losing these seats again would be a huge blow to the president and to Democrats, who are eager to paint the 2022 New York losses as a temporary setback.

I do think that this issue right now is primarily a New York City issue. Its kind of splintered a little bit out into the hinterlands here, so to speak, Crowley said of the immigration issue.

When asked about concerns over a potential redo of the midterms, Crowley pointed to different political conditions next year.

I do think there are other factors that will come into play, certainly. I dont think anyone can rely on a slam dunk, the former congressman said. But, people who dont vote in off-year elections come out in bigger numbers in the presidential election years.

The White House is downplaying the situation, pointing to steps theyve already taken to support New Yorks handling of the migrant influx.

The administration provided New York with more than $140 million this fiscal year. The Education Department last week identified hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funds that could be available to New York and the Transportation Department in June for leasing space at John F. Kennedy International Airport, where they could provide shelter for asylum-seekers, a senior administration official said.

Additionally, the official said the National Park Service and local officials are working to finalize a lease for portions of Brooklyns Floyd Bennett Field to serve as shelter. And, starting this week, 50 federal staff members arrived in New York to educate people on the immigration system and how to apply for work permits.

When asked if Adams is being hyperbolic with his rhetoric, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre replied, Look at that for yourselves. What I can speak to is the engagement that we have made, we have had with New York, whether state or local.

Meanwhile, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) has been more open to working with the White House on immigration issues. She came to Washington last month to discuss New York  a meeting that Biden didnt personally attend.

Vice President Harris stood alongside Adams, as well as Hochul, at the National September 11th Memorial in New York City on Monday. Meanwhile, Biden was criticized for not going to New York City on the anniversary. He was traveling back from Asia and stopped at a military base in Alaska to mark the day.

But some New York Democrats are looking beyond intraparty niceties and toward policy-driven resolutions.

If we do the right thing, like work permits and TPS, yes. I think that we put the immigration issue aside, and then we can concentrate on some of the tough issues impacting communities, said Espaillat, when asked whether Democrats could go on the offensive in contested New York districts.

Espaillat said Democrats need to wipe the thornier side of immigration  in New York, thats fiscal burdens  off the table to campaign on other policy wins.

So, for us to talk about health care, and how we were able to get insulin to $35 a pop, and how were able now to negotiate down the prices of other prescription drugs  lifesavers for many seniors and others. For us to talk about that, weve got to make sure that theres oxygen in the room for people to be able to listen.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
In a deviation from federal recommendations, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ' administration is advising residents under age 65 not to get the new Covid boosters from Pfizer and Moderna.

"What I have directed our department to do is to provide guidance that really recommends and advises against the use of these mRNA Covid-19 vaccines for anyone under 65," the state surgeon general, Dr. Joseph Ladapo , said at an online panel hosted by DeSantis on Wednesday.

The statement ignores the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommendations: The agency said Tuesday that everyone ages 6 months and up who has not gotten a Covid shot within the last two months should get a new booster, which targets a subvariant of omicron called XBB.1.5.

"Vaccination remains the best protection against Covid-19-related hospitalization and death. Vaccination also reduces your chance of suffering the effects of long Covid," the CDC said in a statement Tuesday.

But Ladapo questioned the CDCs rationale.

"With virtually every walking human being having some degree of immunity and the questions we have about safety and about effectiveness  especially about safety  my judgment is that its not a good decision for young people and for people who are not at high risk at this point in the pandemic," Ladapo said.

The CDC's director, Dr. Mandy Cohen, fired back Wednesday, calling Florida's move "dangerous" in a statement shared by the White House.

As we head into the fall and winter seasons, it is important that Americans get the updated COVID-19 vaccine. They are proven safe; they are effective, and they have been thoroughly and independently reviewed by the FDA and CDC," Cohen said. "Since this Administrations launch of the largest adult vaccination program in our nations history, COVID-19 vaccines have saved millions of lives and kept countless people out of the hospital. Public health experts are in broad agreement about these facts, and efforts to undercut vaccine uptake are unfounded and dangerous.

DeSantis' panel was the latest example of his administration's defying federal guidelines related to Covid vaccines  opposition that helped transform DeSantis into a national Republican star at the height of the pandemic.

DeSantis originally supported Covid shots, noting in July 2021 that "these vaccines are saving lives." Since then, however, he has built his administrations health care platform around the notion that Covid vaccines are unsafe and unproven  a stance not supported by scientific consensus. Ladapo, whom DeSantis appointed in September 2021, has become one of the countrys most prominent Covid vaccine skeptics.

In recent weeks, DeSantis presidential campaign has used the issues of Covid and vaccines to attack former President Donald Trump, under whose administration the mRNA vaccines were developed. Trump continues to lead DeSantis by wide margins in most public polls.

Gov. Ron DeSantis (Charlie Neibergall / AP file)

The latest Covid boosters are updated versions of the mRNA vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna. The U.S. has administered hundreds of millions of doses of previous versions of those shots over more than 2 years, without widespread safety issues.

Both vaccines have been associated with an elevated risk of myocarditis  inflammation of the heart muscle  among teenage boys. Still, the CDCs advisory committee determined Tuesday that the benefits of vaccination outweighed the risk, even for that group.

Moderna presented data to the committee based on a trial in humans, showing that its new booster is safe and that it spurs antibody protection against several coronavirus subvariants. Pfizers data, meanwhile, showed an increased antibody response in laboratory studies of mice.

The Florida Health Department, however, wrote in a release that "the most recent booster approval was granted in the absence of any meaningful booster-specific clinical trial data performed in humans."

Some doctors say certain young people may not need new boosters

In the wake of the CDC's recommendation, some doctors have offered more nuanced guidance about who should get the new boosters, given that people's risk of severe illness varies widely.

Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine expert at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, said that for healthy, young people, the new shot is most likely "low risk, low reward."

"You buy yourself a few months of protection against mild disease for a virus that doesnt have a clear seasonality yet," Offit said, adding that young, healthy people who are already vaccinated and have gotten Covid before "should feel confident that you are well-protected against serious illness."

Dr. Dan Barouch, the director of the Center for Virology and Vaccine Research at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, said immunity from mRNA boosters wanes after four to six months, whereas immunity from a Covid infection seems to last about eight to 12 months. The greatest protection comes from hybrid immunity, he said  a combination of vaccination and natural infection.

Barouch said doctors generally agree that "the benefit of the boosters is highest in people who are at high risk of severe disease."

"And then everyone would agree that people at low risk of severe disease  such as younger, healthier populations  have a lower benefit of the boosters. Different people will make different decisions based on that information," he said.

The United Kingdom has opted for a different vaccination strategy from the U.S.': It is offering boosters this fall only to certain groups, including people ages 65 and up, residents in elderly care homes and younger people with elevated risks of severe disease.

But advising against vaccines for all people under 65, as Ladapo has, could jeopardize the health of some vulnerable groups, Offit said.

"You can certainly be hospitalized at less than 65 years of age if you have comorbidities or youre immune-compromised or youre pregnant, so that doesnt make any sense," he said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis administration is advising people under the age of 65 not to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine in complete opposition to the guidance of federal health officials amid a rise in coronavirus-related hospitalizations.

Florida Surgeon General Joseph A. Ladapo, who opposed vaccines for most children and the use of masks during the height of the pandemic, reasoned that hes skeptical about the vaccines safety.

I just think that at this point, with the amount of immunity thats in the community, with virtually every walking human being having some degree of immunity, and the questions we have about safety and about effectiveness  especially about safety  my judgment is that it is not a good decision for young people and for people who are not at high risk, at this point in the pandemic, he said during a panel discussion Wednesday.

A person receives a Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine booster shot. The CDC recommends that everyone ages 6 months and up get the latest vaccine, which is designed to fight the most common variants of the virus that are currently circulating.

A person receives a Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine booster shot. The CDC recommends that everyone ages 6 months and up get the latest vaccine, which is designed to fight the most common variants of the virus that are currently circulating.

DeSantis, a GOP contender in the 2024 presidential election, also advised against the shots approved for use this week by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They are expected to be available to the public this week.

I will not stand by and let the FDA and CDC use healthy Floridians as guinea pigs for new booster shots that have not been proven safe or effective, DeSantis said in a statement.

The governor accused the vaccines of being hastily approved without adequate evidence that the shots benefits outweigh any risks.

CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen later shot back that the shots are safe and have undergone rigorous testing.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has accused the vaccines of being hastily approved and potentially unsafe.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has accused the vaccines of being hastily approved and potentially unsafe.

They are proven safe; they are effective, and they have been thoroughly and independently reviewed by the FDA and CDC, she said in a statement sent to HuffPost. Public health experts are in broad agreement about these facts, and efforts to undercut vaccine uptake are unfounded and dangerous.

Dr. Peter Marks, director of the FDAs Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, also defended its safety and efficacy standards.

The public can be assured that these updated vaccines have met the agencys rigorous scientific standards for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality, he said in a statement. We very much encourage those who are eligible to consider getting vaccinated.

The CDC and FDA back in March sent a letter to Ladapo that slammed his past comments on COVID-19 vaccines, saying his claims that the shots are linked to health risks are incorrect, misleading and could be harmful to the American public.

There are currently more people hospitalized for COVID-19 in Florida than in any other state. Pictured in this map is the reported new COVID-19 hospitalization rate per 100,000 population within the past week by county.

There are currently more people hospitalized for COVID-19 in Florida than in any other state. Pictured in this map is the reported new COVID-19 hospitalization rate per 100,000 population within the past week by county.

Former Florida Surgeon General Dr. Scott Rivkees, who preceded Ladapo but was largely out of public view during the pandemic after encouraging social distancing and mask-wearing, also hit back at DeSantis and Ladapos messaging. He called it contrary to conventional public health norms.

COVID is a vaccine-preventable disease, Rivkees, who resigned as surgeon general in 2021 and now teaches at the Brown University School of Public Health, told USA TODAY NETWORK - Florida. These vaccines are very safe and very effective.

The CDC recommends that everyone ages 6 months and up get the latest vaccine, designed to fight the most common variants of the virus that are circulating, to help prevent serious illness and death.

There are currently more people hospitalized for COVID-19 in Florida than in any other state, with roughly 12 new hospitalizations reported per 100,000 in the week ending Sept. 2. This is a 4.4% increase from the previous week, according to data obtained and shared by the CDC.

Nationwide, COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths have been incrementally rising since July.

Hospitalizations grew by nearly 9% in the week ending Sept. 2, while COVID-19 deaths increased by more than 10%, the CDC reported.

The EG.5 subvariant  nicknamed Eris  is currently causing the majority of cases in the United States.

Related...
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) said Wednesday that he does not support criminalizing abortion in his state.

We have no criminal penalty, he said in a CBS News interview. The penalties are for the physician.

Floridas six-week abortion ban is not in effect, pending a lawsuit, but would enable the state to pursue felony charges against any person who willfully performs or actively participates in a termination of pregnancy, it reads.

DeSantis said those penalties would be for medical providers, not women seeking care, saying he is absolutely not in favor of criminalizing abortion for women and that it will not happen in Florida.

The presidential candidate has not said whether he would support a national ban similar to his states pending six-week law, or the current 15-week law.

I support pro-life policies, he said. Ill be a pro-life president. But at the same time, Ive got to chart the course and be honest with people about, OK, how do you advance the ball like we did in Florida? And the way you do that is really bottom-up.

Abortion has proven an important issue on the 2024 GOP campaign trail. While all GOP candidates consider themselves to be anti-abortion, some have endorsed national bans, while others have not.

Sen. Tim Scott (S.C.) and former Vice President Mike Pence are among the candidates who have said they would back a national 15-week abortion ban.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
China, EU can make G20 more inclusive

08:33, September 14, 2023 By Jia Ruixia ( China Daily

JIN DING/CHINA DAILY

The just-concluded G20 Summit in New Delhi may not have been successful on some fronts, possibly due to differences among the member economies, but it provided a good opportunity for Premier Li Qiang to hold talks with European leaders and make them better aware of China's policies.

At his meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on the sidelines of the G20 Summit on Saturday, Premier Li, in an obvious reference to the EU "de-risking" policy, said: "Risk prevention does not preclude cooperation, interdependence should not be equated with insecurity." Li also met with European Council President Charles Michel in New Delhi.

And in his meeting with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Premier Li said China welcomes the United Kingdom to expand practical cooperation, and is willing to deepen cooperation with the UK in fields such as trade, investment, green development, and science and technology.

There are enough reasons for China and European countries to work together to make the G20 mechanism more resilient, and turn the grouping into a platform for effective coordination between the Global North and the Global South to achieve the goals of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

First, China and Europe should deepen cooperation in green development in the face of increasing extreme weather events. Devastating forest fires in Canada, the US, Greece and Spain, the melting of ice in Antarctica, and severe floods and typhoons in many countries are some of the examples of extreme weather events. Japan's discharge of the nuclear-contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the sea is another long-term threat to the marine ecosystem and human health.

As UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, "The era of global warming has ended; the era of global boiling has arrived." It is therefore the responsibility of all countries to take immediate climate actions to help build a sustainable and peaceful development environment. The G20 Summit's call for "One Earth, One Family, One Future" best explains what needs to be done.

But since it's doubtful whether the United States, the world's most developed and technologically advanced country, would be willing to contribute to achieving this goal, the European Union should strengthen cooperation with other economies to make the best of its advanced green and low-carbon technologies.

China's cooperation with many EU countries, including Germany, France, Sweden and Denmark, on low-carbon, green cooperation has yielded some remarkable results. Yet China and the EU need to take more measures to ensure the free flow of green and low-carbon technologies, and establish carbon pricing and carbon-neutrality incentive mechanisms, while helping less-developed countries reduce their carbon emissions.

Second, China and the EU can work together to propel global digital development through the G20. The digital gap between countries has widened the gap between the rich and the poor. Some countries have resorted to technology blockades, thereby rupturing supply chains of the global digital industry.

Under such circumstances, if China and the EU work together under the G20 framework, they can build digital infrastructure and a global digital economy in which more developing countries can participate and help boost the global economy. They can also help less-developed countries develop and introduce digital payment systems and provide digital public services, as well as strengthen cooperation in digital trade documents, promote mutual recognition of electronic document standards, and make regional free trade agreements more open and inclusive.

The two sides could also work with other economies to strengthen cooperation in drafting legislation and regulations on cryptocurrency to combat crimes such as human trafficking and money laundering.

And third, China and the EU could work together to make the G20 more inclusive. That the African Union joined the G20 as a new member at the New Delhi summit shows the Global South should be involved in global economic governance.

Growing global challenges have, on several occasions, prevented the G20 members from reaching a consensus, thus eroding the multilateral platform. And since China and the EU both uphold multilateralism, they should strengthen multilateral cooperation, and work together to make the World Trade Organization, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and other multilateral trade and financial bodies more open and fair and increase the participation and say of developing countries.

China has proposed the Global Development Initiative and taken concrete measures to help some less-developed countries out of serious public debt. But since the developed economies' GDP(nominal) accounts for about 70 percent of the G20's cumulative GDP, the EU and other developed economies should make more efforts to rebalance wealth between the Global South and North.

China and the EU have more common interests than differences. And since they share the same vision of inclusive development, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative can help them achieve the goal of "One Earth, One Family, One Future".

The author is an associate professor at the Institute of European Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Photo: The Canadian Press Gov. Maura Healey, third left, visits the site of a building which collapsed after a storm Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, in Leominster, Mass. More than 9 inches of rain fell in the town overnight. (AP Photo/Josh Reynolds)

Hurricane Lee barreled north toward New England on Wednesday and threatened to unleash violent storms on the region just as communities in Massachusetts and Rhode Island were dealing with tornado warnings and another day of heavy rain that opened up sinkholes and brought devastating flooding to several communities.

The National Hurricane Center issued a hurricane watch for portions of Maine. A tropical storm watch was issued for a large area of coastal New England from parts of Rhode Island to Stonington, Maine, including Block Island, Marthas Vineyard and Nantucket.

The National Weather Service in Boston said that looking at radar data and videos it appears likely that a tornado toppled trees and knocked down power lines in Rhode Island and Connecticut on Wednesday. Rob Megnia, a meteorologist with the weather service, said they received reports of about 20 trees down in Killingly, Connecticut, and trees and power lines down in Foster, Rhode Island.

The agency said it would survey the storm damage in both states on Thursday to help determine the tornado's strength, maximum wind speed and its path.

Emergency sirens could be heard late Wednesday afternoon in parts of Providence, Rhode Island, as cellphones pinged with a tornado warning. In Lincoln, Rhode Island, photos after the storm showed at least one roof damaged, a trampoline blown into some trees and the press box at the high school stadium tipped into the bleachers.

The weather service also issued a flash flood warning for parts of Connecticut until 9:45 p.m.

In North Attleborough, Massachusetts, which was hit by heavy flooding Monday night, Sean Pope was watching the forecast with unease.

Heavy rains had turned his swimming pool into a mud pit and filled his basement with 3 feet (91 centimeters) of water. He has been able to get the power back on in the first and second floor of the home he shares with his wife and three children, but he worried about more flooding.

I am hanging on, hoping and watching the forecast and looking for hot spots where it may rain and where there are breaks, he said. Its raining really hard again so we have to make sure the pumps are working."

Elsewhere in the state, Leominster resident Zac Brown was still cleaning up his home and backyard Wednesday after flood waters from a nearby stream flooded his basement, washed away part of his retaining walls and dumped rocks, boulders and other debris in his backyard.

He remembers his frantic efforts to survive the floods, including rushing to shut down the power, knocking on roommates' and tenants doors and telling them to leave. While he built a blockade" of cement bags, he said there wasn't much he could do if more rain came.

I have no physical attachment to the house, so if it goes, it goes and thats what God wants, and if it doesnt, it doesnt and thats awesome, Brown said.

Late Tuesday, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey issued a state of emergency following the catastrophic flash flooding and property damage in two counties and other communities. The 10 inches (25 centimeters) of rain over six hours earlier in the week was a 200-year event," said Matthew Belk, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Boston.

Healey said Wednesday that while there arent plans to call up the National Guard, the states emergency management agency is keeping a close eye on the weather and is prepared to offer assistance.

She said the state is monitoring the conditions of dams in many communities and urged residents to take seriously any flood warnings and to stay off the roads when ordered.

"Something that looks pretty minor can, just within a couple of hours, turn into something very serious, potentially deadly and very, very destructive, Healey said.

The rain created several sinkholes in Leominster, Massachusetts, including one at a dealership where several cars were swallowed up. In Providence, Rhode Island, downpours flooded a parking lot and parts of a shopping mall. Firefighters used inflatable boats to rescue more than two dozen people stranded in cars.

Parking lots at several businesses briefly became lakes in Leominster and North Attleborough, and many front yards were still partially covered in water. The sounds of generators filled the air in many neighborhoods, as residents worked to remove water from their basements.

John DeCicco, a retired school teacher in Leominster who loaned generators to neighbors, said residents of the close-knit community about 40 miles (65 kilometers) northwest of Boston were helping each other clean up and opening their homes to others whose residences are uninhabitable.

Dawn Packer, who runs a North Attleborough home preschool, had looked across the street Monday evening to see a UPS truck floating in several feet of water. Soon her yard was flooding.

All of sudden, the door smashed open. The water was so forceful. It just smashed the door open and poured in, 4 feet, she said.

After a dry day, it started raining in Leominster again Wednesday afternoon. Parts of Massachusetts and Rhode Island were under a flash flood warning. Earlier in the day, there were heavy downpours in Danbury, Connecticut, where officials said they had to rescue several people from vehicles stuck in floodwaters.

The ground is saturated. It can't take in anymore, Leominster Mayor Dean Mazzarella said at a news conference Wednesday. But he said the city had emergency resources at the ready for whatever the weather brings.

Mazarella said up to 300 people were evacuated by Tuesday morning in the city, which has not seen such widespread damage since a 1936 hurricane. Most buildings downtown flooded and some collapsed. He said the city was trying to help get assistance to homeowners and businesses that suffered damage. He said early estimates on city infrastructure restoration projects could be anywhere from $25 million to $40 million.

New England has experienced its share of flooding this summer, including a storm that dumped up to two months of rain in two days in Vermont in July, resulting in two deaths. Scientists are finding that storms around the world are forming in a warmer atmosphere, making extreme rainfall a more frequent reality now. A warming world will only make that worse.
DeSantis ' Disney board may cut $3 million for roadway repairs and maintenance from its 2024 budget.

The tentative budget cuts come as the board expects millions in legal fees in its battle against Disney.

The chairman of the board slammed the ousted Disney board, accusing it of "cronyism."

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' hand-picked Disney World board wants to cut millions of dollars from roadway repairs and maintenance in its proposed 2024 budget  while also budgeting for millions in legal fees to keep fighting Disney in court.

The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District  the DeSantis-appointed governing body that oversees the special district surrounding Disney World in Florida  discussed proposed changes to its 2024 budget at its monthly board meeting on Wednesday.

The tentative 2024 budget  which will be finalized later this month  includes cutting over $3 million dollars from the district's roadway repair and maintenance line, a 19% reduction from the $16.6 million projected actual expenditure for 2023.

The board included a note at the bottom of the budget explaining, "Repairs and maintenance services decreased due to option to due less paving rehab."

That's not the only section of the budget that's shrinking; 'employee relations' costs are dropping from over $2.5 million to just $2,500 since the board is cutting park perks and benefits for employees and retirees.

The board has faced an outcry from staff like firefighters who backed DeSantis' takeover but are now furious about losing their benefits.

Chairman of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, Martin Garcia. Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, YouTube

The district expects to spend over $2.6 million more in 2024 on legal fees  largely connected to DeSantis' ongoing feud with Disney.

The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, which DeSantis appointed earlier this year in place of a previous Disney-backed board, has already spent at least $1.9 million in legal costs so far this year to keep up its battle with Disney for control of the park district, Politico reported.

The board's chairman, Martin Garcia, took the opportunity at Wednesday's meeting to defend DeSantis' takeover, calling the ousted Disney board's management of the district "one of the greatest examples of corporate cronyism in modern American history."

"After the establishment of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District in April," Garcia said at the meeting, "This board has acted swiftly and effectively to make sure that the operations of the district are promoting the public good."

In a statement to Insider, Garcia said the board is "fully confident" that it'll prevail in court against Disney.

Read the original article on Business Insider
In the high-stakes fight that is threatening to shut down the federal government next month  and tear House Republicans apart  Ron DeSantis is taking sides.

The Florida governor spent about 30 minutes on the phone Wednesday with conservative Reps. Chip Roy of Texas, Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Bob Good of Virginia  leaders of the cadre that is pushing House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to embrace a shutdown if Democrats won't agree to hard-right policy demands.

DeSantis' message, according to a person familiar with the call: I got your back. Keep fighting.

The call is the latest signal that DeSantis is working to insert himself into the spending fight on the Hill in a bid to elevate his standing among Republican primary voters.

"Ron DeSantis knows that both parties  including the current and previous administration  are to blame for Washington's reckless spending spree," said DeSantis campaign spokesperson Andrew Romeo. "He is urging congressional Republicans to hold the line in this current spending standoff and end days of rubber stamping multi-trillion dollar spending bills that harm the American people."

DeSantis spent three terms in the House and is a founding member of the House Freedom Caucus, the hard-line group that is pushing McCarthy to fight harder against Democrats on spending and other members  and threatening his gavel if he doesn't.

Still, it's notable DeSantis is associating himself with McCarthy's internal foes as tensions inside the House GOP reach a boiling point. Inside a closed-door conference meeting Thursday, McCarthy exploded at his critics.

If you think you scare me because you want to file a motion to vacate, move the fucking motion, he said, referring to the ouster maneuver that has been discussed by Good and other lawmakers.

The person who described the phone call did so on the condition of anonymity. A spokesperson for Roy, who has served as an informal leader of the conservative splinter group, declined to comment. A spokesperson for McCarthy did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment on DeSantis' role.

In other recent signs of his interest in the spending fight, DeSantis released a video knocking the D.C. establishment for spending too much. And in an interview with CBS Norah ODonnell, he blamed both Democrats and Republicans for overspending.

DeSantis has shown much more attention to the spending clash than the GOP presidential frontrunner, former President Donald Trump, who has generally left McCarthy alone to handle fiscal matters.

Trump has recently been more interested in another aspect of internal House GOP politics  the push to impeach President Joe Biden, which was formalized by McCarthy on Tuesday after months of pressure from Trump and his allies.

Rachael Bade and Olivia Beavers contributed to this report.

Like this content? Sign up for POLITICO's Playbook newsletter.


Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis said he would send the military to the U.S.-Mexico border and authorize service members to use deadly force against drug cartels if elected president.

DeSantis said in an interview with CBSs Norah ODonnell on Wednesday that troops would be allowed to use deadly force against individuals identified as members of a drug cartel who are trying to break through the sections of the border wall built during the Trump administration.

Im going to have the military at the border, 100 percent, he said.

DeSantis said the individuals subject to deadly force would need to be identified as hostile, which would include those trying to break through the wall and wearing a backpack.

If theres a woman with a baby, theyre not a cartel member. Theres not going to be authorization to just shoot somebody like that. But when somebodys got a backpack on, and theyre breaking through the wall, you know that thats hostile intent, and you have every right to take action under those circumstances, he said.

The Florida governor has previously vowed to send the military into Mexico on day one to fight the drug cartels, saying at the first GOP presidential debate last month that the cartels are killing tens of thousands of our fellow citizens.

DeSantis told ODonnell that the military would only need to use deadly force against cartel members a few times before they change their actions.

They do it now because they know that theres no pushback. They know people are dying in America, and thats fine with them. Its not fine with me, he said.

DeSantis has also made headlines in recent months for sending migrants to liberal-leaning cities and states with sanctuary city policies that limit their cooperation with federal immigration authorities. He has been one of a few Republican governors who have done it.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D), whose city has received thousands of asylum-seekers for months, said last week that the vast number of migrants being sent to the city will destroy it and has called on the federal government for assistance.

DeSantis argued New York City is an example of the situation with the number of migrants coming to the United States being unsustainable.

Its not the way to run a country. And whats happened though is because some of the sanctuary jurisdictions, who were very high on virtue signaling when this wasnt affecting them, have now had to acknowledge that this is untenable for a country to operate this way, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
FILE - Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis answers questions from the media in the Florida Cabinet following his State of the State address during a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives on March 7, 2023, at the state Capitol in Tallahassee, Fla. The fate of abortion rights in Florida is at stake Friday, Sept. 8, 2023 when the state Supreme Court takes up a challenge to a law banning the procedure in most cases after 15 weeks of pregnancy, which will determine whether an even stricter six-week ban signed by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis can take effect. (AP Photo/Phil Sears, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

NEW YORK (AP)  Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis said Donald Trump is unlikely to be elected president again if convicted in any of the four criminal cases he faces.

DeSantis made the comments in an interview with CBS News that aired Wednesday night. The Florida governor has sharpened his critiques of Trump, seeking to paint him as unelectable as he strains to catch up to the former president in the GOP presidential race.

I didnt think even before all this that the president, the former president, should have run again, DeSantis said in the interview. Theres too many voters, who, hes a dealbreaker for them.

DeSantis, who is in a distant second in the race, has gradually hardened his criticisms of the former president as he runs against him. He joined almost all of the GOP candidates on the debate stage last month in saying they would support Trump, the frontrunner, as the partys nominee, if hes convicted.

But in the new interview, DeSantis said Trump likely cant win if hes convicted.

I think the chance of getting elected after being convicted of a felony is as close to zero as you can get, he said.

Trump faces 91 charges across four criminal cases, two filed in federal court in Washington and Florida and two in state courts in New York and Georgia. The cases are related to his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss, allegations he mishandled classified documents and hush money payments made to hide claims of extramarital affairs.

DeSantis has in the past made comments agreeing with Trumps statements suggesting the cases against him are politically motivated, with the governor saying the criminal justice system was being politicized.

Trumps campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement that DeSantis knows he has no shot of ever becoming the nominee he is slipping to third place after all  but cozying up to Never Trumpers and lunatic Democrats is an all-time low for him, almost as low as his poll numbers.

DeSantis also criticized Trump for adding to the national debt as president. According to the Bipartisan Policy Center, the gross national debt by $7.4 trillion over the Trump years.

DeSantis said both parties have added to the debt and Republicans talk big when theyre out of power, but when they get in, they dont put their money where their mouth is.

Donald Trump added almost $8 trillion to the debt in four years. He ran saying he was going to eliminate the national debt, he said. He did make that promise, and they did the opposite.

Trumps campaign did not respond to DeSantis comments on the debt.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has now signed an extradition warrant for Shanna Gardner, the former Jacksonville Beach woman charged in the 2022 murder-for-hire plot of her ex-husband Jared Bridegan.

The State Attorneys Office said the warrant is headed to Benton County, Washington, where Gardner is currently being held.

Gardners hearing in court in Washington was continued to Oct. 5 to allow time for the state to receive the warrant.

Gardner has been fighting extradition back to Florida.

Gardner, who is also known as Gardner-Fernandez, is facing charges of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, solicitation to commit murder, and child abuse. Action News Jax told you when she was arrested on Aug. 17 by ATF agents in West Richland, Washington.

The crime

Bridegan, a St. Johns County father of four, was gunned down Feb. 16, 2022, in Jacksonville Beach. He had just taken his twins he shared with Gardner, and his then-2-year-old Bexley, his daughter with second wife Kirsten Bridegan, to dinner.

The software engineer had just dropped off the twins at Gardners house when he encountered a tire on Sanctuary Boulevard, a one-way road. He was headed home to Kirsten Bridegan, with whom he shared children Bexley and London.

JUNE 2022 INTERVIEW: Wish it werent like this: Ex-wife of Jared Bridegan, father killed in Jacksonville Beach, speaks

Jacksonville Beach Police Chief Gene Paul Smith said during the announcement of the first arrest in Bridegans murder in January, that the tire was purposely placed there to make him stop which he did.

Tragically he began to exit his vehicle to move the tire and he was gunned down in cold blood, Smith said.

Bridegan was shot several times while Bexley was still strapped into a car seat in the back seat of his car.

[SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter]

The other arrests

Mario Fernandez Saldana, Gardners estranged husband, was arrested in March on charges of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, child abuse, and solicitation to commit a capital felony.

The arrest of Henry Tenon, 61, in connection to Bridegans murder was announced in January. He was arrested on charges of conspiracy to commit murder, accessory after the fact to a capital felony, child abuse, and second-degree murder

Tenon, who rented a home from Fernandez Saldana, agreed to plead guilty to second-degree murder. That means Tenon faces 15 years to life in prison, but not the death penalty.

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.
ORLANDO, Fla.  Gov. Ron DeSantis  tourism oversight district is moving forward with a plan to end a Disney perks program, while working on a satisfactory alternative that addresses employee concerns, administrator Glen Gilzean said Wednesday.

The district may increase a proposed $1,425 stipend employees would receive in lieu of the Disney benefits, Gilzean told employees at a budget session.

The district also is exploring a program that would allow employees to directly purchase theme park passes from Disney if they choose, he said.

We are making significant progress in developing reasonable solutions.  I am dedicated to developing a satisfactory alternative, Gilzean said.

Further details will be released at a Sept. 27 meeting, he said. Disney did not respond to a request for comment on whether it would agree to let district employees purchase passes directly.

The district also is working on a new benefit that would fully pay employees diagnosed with cancer while they are on sick leave, Gilzean said.

For years, employees and retirees at the Reedy Creek Improvement District, now called the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, received theme park passes and discounts at Disney stores and hotels. The districts roughly 400 employees include firefighters and other government personnel who work at Disney and nearby properties.

But DeSantis hand-picked oversight board objected to the perks program because it exclusively benefited Disney. In 2022, the district spent about $2.5 million on Disney perks, which employees could sign up to receive, officials said.

At their last meeting, board members heard from two firefighters and a retiree who urged them not to scrap the program. They called the program a treasured benefit that drew them to work there.

Board Chairman Martin Garcia said hes heard the concerns from employees and retirees, and officials are working on a solution.

We understand that you had a perk that has been taken away, and we have to deal with that, he said. We want happy employees, and most importantly, we want to be fair to you all.


Gov. Ron DeSantis  tourism oversight district is moving forward with a plan to end a Disney perks program, while working on a satisfactory alternative that addresses employee concerns, administrator Glen Gilzean said Wednesday.

The district may increase a proposed $1,425 stipend employees would receive in lieu of the Disney benefits, Gilzean told employees at a budget session.

The district also is exploring a program that would allow employees to directly purchase theme park passes from Disney if they choose, he said.

We are making significant progress in developing reasonable solutions.  I am dedicated to developing a satisfactory alternative, Gilzean said.

Further details will be released at a Sept. 27 meeting, he said. Disney did not respond to a request for comment on whether it would agree to let district employees purchase passes directly.

The district also is working on a new benefit that would fully pay employees diagnosed with cancer while they are on sick leave, Gilzean said.

For years, employees and retirees at the Reedy Creek Improvement District, now called the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, received theme park passes and discounts at Disney stores and hotels. The districts roughly 400 employees include firefighters and other government personnel who work at Disney and nearby properties.

But DeSantis hand-picked oversight board objected to the perks program because it exclusively benefited Disney. In 2022, the district spent about $2.5 million on Disney perks, which employees could sign up to receive, officials said.

At their last meeting, board members heard from two firefighters and a retiree who urged them not to scrap the program. They called the program a treasured benefit that drew them to work there.

Board Chairman Martin Garcia said hes heard the concerns from employees and retirees, and officials are working on a solution.

We understand that you had a perk that has been taken away, and we have to deal with that, he said. We want happy employees, and most importantly, we want to be fair to you all.
Descendants of enslaved Africans on Georgias Sapelo Island  one of the last intact Gullah Geechee communities in the state  are worried their cultural heritage and property could soon be lost after city officials voted to change the islands zoning laws.

Historians believe Hogg Hammock, on Sapelo Island, is one of the last surviving Gullah Geechee communities in the Georgia Sea Islands. The Gullah people are descendants of Africans who were enslaved on coastal plantations in the South and retain many of their African cultural traditions and languages.

On Tuesday, the McIntosh County Board of Commissioners voted 3-2 to change the zoning ordinance in Hogg Hammock. The new ordinance includes raising the maximum square footage of a heated-and-cooled house from 1,400 to 3,000, according to a statement released ahead of a public hearing on the ordinance last week from McIntosh County Manager Patrick Zoucks.

The limit on square footage was imposed in what appears to be a good faith effort to control property values and deter the construction of large residences. Unfortunately, there was little consideration for the enforceability of this provision, Zoucks wrote, noting it is impossible to control if people add heating or cooling to their homes after moving in.

Sapelo Island descendant Josiah Jazz Watts, 52, told CNN the countys zoning plan shocked us all, saying residents are concerned the new changes will allow the wealthy to build properties in the community and lead to high property taxes.

We werent given the opportunity to be included in the process of a zoning ordinance that will directly impact us, Watts said on Wednesday. The people who are going to be mostly impacted negatively impacted by all this are the Geechee descendants on the island.

Watts added that a number of residents are older and on fixed incomes: Where are people going to get the additional income to keep up with paying that tax? Youre not gonna be able to.

Residents, landowners and supporters of the Hogg Hummock community on Sapelo Island fill a courtroom in Darien, Georgia, on September 12, 2023, as McIntosh County commissioners meet to approve the zoning changes. - Russ Bynum/AP

Enslaved people were brought to Sapelo Island in 1802 and their descendants still live in the Hogg Hammock community, which spans nearly 400 acres and is only accessible by boat or ferry, according to the Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society.

Maurice Bailey, a local historian and ninth generation Hogg Hammock resident, said only 29 original descendants are left in the community. He estimates descendants own 63% of the properties and 75% of the acreage on Sapelo Island.

People have witnessed their communities being taken away from them. And theyve been fighting for this community for a long time, said Bailey, who is also president and CEO of the Save Our Legacy Ourself organization, which aims to preserve the heritage of the Geechee people.

But now, he said, many Hogg Hammock residents have grown discouraged.

They are thinking of selling their land because they cant win, he said. We wouldnt be in all this mess if we didnt start selling land to the outside people.

Bailey said his mother, celebrated Gullah Geechee writer and activist Cornelia Walker Bailey, frequently warned against selling their property and cultural inheritance. She would always say, Dont sell your land. If you really want to hold on to who you are, dont sell your land, he said.

McIntosh County Board of Commissioners Chairman David Stevens and Zoucks, the McIntosh County manager, did not respond to CNNs requests for comment.

In his statement, Zoucks said the proposals in the zoning regulations were of the best interest of Hogg Hammock residents and the county.

Watts said he and others in the community plan to appeal the zoning ordinance. Were fighting because  its just wrong, he said.

Sapelo Island residents arent the only ones fighting against what critics have called an expropriation of Black-owned land.

Josephine Wright, a 93-year-old Black resident of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is in a legal dispute with a property developer seeking to build a residential development next door to her familys land.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Maksym Palamarchuk, an expert of Ukraines National Institute for Strategic Studies, explained in an interview with NV Radio on Sept. 13 how the recent missile strike on a drydock in Russia-occupied Sevastopol may affect the war in the Black Sea.

NV: Lets start with what significance this large-scale attack on Sevastopol and the fire at the drydock might have for us, for the future liberation of Crimea and our victory?

Palamarchuk: First of all, if it was indeed damaged, most likely, judging by the extent of the damage, the submarine has permanently been put hors de combat, which means minus one Kalibr [cruise missile] carrier. Moreover, it was a Kalibr carrier with a modest volley, but can covertly approach Ukrainian shores. In addition, the destruction of a landing ship is also very important.

Read also: Russian ships avoid Sevastopol Bay after oil depot fire, Kyiv says

Not because the Ukrainians are threatened by a Russian landing force, but because their role is very significant in the supply of weapons and supplies to the Russian troops occupying the southern regions of Ukraine and currently suffering significant losses and expenses in battles with Ukrainian defenders.

And its worth noting that the drydock itself is also important. Given the damage to the facility, the enemys ability to repair damage to their ships will decrease. For example, even damage from a naval drone, which used to be able to take a ship out of action for six months, can now put it hors de combat for the rest of the war.

NV: Lets talk in more detail about this drydock. It was billed as the main repair base of the Russian Black Sea Fleet. Is this really the case and why havent they moved this main repair base somewhere since the start of the full-scale invasion?

Palamarchuk: Yes, this is really a base plant for servicing the Russian Navy. There are already problems here, its not a structure that can be moved somewhere. As we remember, after the start of hostilities, Turkey, in strict compliance with the Montreux Convention, closed the Bosporus to Russian warships, as well as warships of any other countries. Russia cannot take them to other places for repair, except by inland waterways. And moving the plant is, to put it mildly, harder than to build a new one.

NV: Lets talk about those damaged vessels, ships. According to Ukraines Defense Intelligence, those could be the Rostov-on-Don Kilo-class submarine, which Russia used to attack Ukraine, as well as the Ropucha-class landing ship Minsk. Can you tell us more about them?

Palamarchuk: The landing ship, like most Russian landing ships, is an old Soviet ship built in Poland. The problem is that the Russians cannot actually replace them. Therefore, in this case, what is important is not how much it could cost on the foreign market, but the fact that its an irreplaceable asset. Because even if they theoretically can bring corvettes with Kalibr missiles by inland waterways, at least from the Caspian Sea, large landing ships simply cannot get to the Black Sea until the end of the war.

Read also: Russian occupiers claim overnight drone attack on Sevastopol

As for the Rostov-on-Don submarine, its a relatively new Russian submarine. This is indeed a very heavy loss for the Russian fleet. As far as I know, about a dozen submarines have been built under this project. Again, the possibility of their transportation by inland waterways is, lets say, at least in question.

In any case, the money spent on this ship is probably somewhere about $300 million, which is a significant amount. Moreover, such a ship cannot be rebuilt quickly, unlike, for example, armored personnel carriers or to some extent even airplanes. A ship is something that takes a long time to build. And in the conditions of Russian sanctions, it could be an irreversible loss.

NV: They say this is a Kilo-class submarine, what does that mean to us? And what submarines, of what class are currently present in Russia, how can you describe them in general?

Palamarchuk: Russia has a very large collection of submarines of various eras, both Soviet and modern vessels. In general, there are three types of submarines in Russia: nuclear with ballistic missiles, part of the nuclear triad; there are submarines armed with cruise missiles (also nuclear powered), and finally diesel-electric submarines, one of which was damaged or destroyed in Sevastopol.

Six submarines were deployed in the Black Sea at the beginning of hostilities, including three of the same type as Rostov-on-Don and one older, Soviet-era submarine, called Alrosa since the same-name Russian diamond mining company sponsored the ship. As for the latter, its combat capability is now in question.

NV: Why were they not transferred from Sevastopol to somewhere further away, for example, to the port of Novorossiysk? Although we remember that Russian ships are also vulnerable there  Olenegorsky Gornyak [landing ship] is such an example.

Palamarchuk: Submarines are usually based in the Black Sea Fleets port of Novorossiysk, in most cases. But lets not forget the vessel was being repaired in this case. Again, the vessel was moored where the relevant facilities were located.

NV: How vulnerable does the Russian Black Sea Fleet look now, given this, God willing, not the last attack, what are its weakest points?

Palamarchuk: The damage to repair capabilities is the Black Sea Fleets weakest point, which has significantly subsided. Given that the size of Ukrainian naval drones almost excludes the sinking of a ship, unless there is a very successful attack, the repair capabilities made it possible to put them back into service relatively quickly. After the loss of such repair capabilities, we can hope that the Black Sea Fleets overall missile volley and its ability to launch Kalibr missiles will diminish over time.

As for the others, there are more hidden issues, for example, the question of how effectively Russian ships can undergo regular maintenance. Because Russian engines arent very reliable, they must undergo repairs quite often, process this engine so that it doesnt fail at a crucial moment. And a situation is quite possible when the ships are formally intact, but in reality, their seaworthiness is very limited.

NV: What Russian actions can be predicted in the near future? Will everything that is left in Sevastopol be removed somewhere, will they try to respond with something?

Palamarchuk: I think that attempts to harm Ukraine are long-standing, as soon as they have such an opportunity, they implement it without trying to link it to anything. No need to engage in all these Russian talks that this is the answer to this and that is the answer to that. The war is ongoing, and theyre trying to harm us as much as possible, while were trying to harm their military machine as much as possible.

Read also: Crimea will not receive water from the mainland for at least a year, reports official

As for the Russians reaction, they will first determine what was affected. I dont think they kept a large array of ships in Sevastopol before that. They will look for opportunities to somehow find alternative sites for repairing their own ships. Theres also a shipbuilding enterprise, although it dealt mainly with civilian vessels in Soviet times, but now it works on Russian helicopters, helicopter carriers, analogues of Mistrals [French-made amphibious assault ships], and the Zalyv shipyard. Maybe theyll try to somehow develop it.

NV: But where?

Palamarchuk: The Zalyv shipyard is outside Kerch [in eastern Crimea]. <...> If it was an air attack, it will be more difficult for us than in Sevastopol as its located deeper into Russia-held territory. But in any case, it was a powerful strike, its a strike, Im not afraid of this word, of strategic importance. And we shouldnt forget that to demonstrate to our allies that their contributions to Ukraine are contributions to European security.

Because lets not forget that Kalibr missiles are, in principle, available in both standard and nuclear configurations. Destroying the carrier of these missiles, which could also launch them covertly, is a significant improvement of the overall security situation in Europe.

NV: Lets also talk about the fact that, obviously, this attack was a combined one, both the Air Force and surface drones were engaged in it. How effective are such attacks, what can you say about them?

Read also: Fire in Sevastopol destroys over 10 tanks with fuel for Russian Black Sea Fleet  Ukrainian intelligence

Palamarchuk: I dont think its a combined attack in the classical sense, when different submarines and aviation, etc. are working at the same time. Because as far as I understand, the drone attack was carried out during the transition, according to official reports. The damaged ships were in a drydock, meaning that naval drones couldnt reach them.

But in principle, the increase in potential is an interesting effect, because if we combine an attack by two means, it significantly complicates and overloads both the ships crew and its combat information systems, making it more likely that the ship will be hit.

NV: Still, what can we expect in the near future and from the Ukrainian side, I think so, such attacks, God willing, will continue?

Palamarchuk: I also hope for it, but we must be careful here, because you understand that every such attack isnt just taking off and launching missiles. First, we must have these missiles, besides, we must plan the operation. And I would like to draw attention to the fact that this operation took place after Ukraine regained control of oil and gas offshore platforms in the Black Sea [on Sept. 12]. As far as I understand, the restoration of this control made this operation possible as it allowed to blind Russias first defense line and, for example, our pilots could get close enough to launch [Strom Shadow cruise] missiles, albeit at a risk.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Satellite images reveal the scale of destruction wrought by medicane Daniel on Libya over the past several days. The visuals show temporary lakes and river systems across the desert landscape and reveal neighborhoods submerged by floodwater in the severely hit coastal city of Drrna.

Medicane Daniel , a rare hurricane-like storm that formed above the Mediterranean Sea last week, began its devastating rampage by dumping record-breaking amounts of rain on Greece, causing a catastrophic deluge. The storm then crossed the sea to Libya, in northern Africa.

Near the coastal city of Derna in Libya's northeast, several dams have reportedly burst under the strain of Daniel's torrential rains, unleashing huge amounts of water onto the city and causing extensive damage to buildings. More than 5,300 people have been confirmed dead due to flooding so far, according to Reuters , and thousands are still missing.

Since the storm clouds cleared, multiple satellites have managed to glimpse Libya, revealing the extent of the flooding and destruction it caused. In images taken by the European Earth-observing satellite Sentinel-2, temporary lakes and river systems are clearly seen stretching across normally parched Libyan terrain.

Related: 10 devastating signs of climate change satellites can see from space

Image 1 of 3

Temporary rivers and lakes that sprung up in the Sahara river in the wake of Medicane Daniel.

Image 2 of 3

Destruction caused by Medicane Daniel in the Libyan city of Derna.

Image 3 of 3

The Libyan city of Derna before the rampage of Medicane Daniel.

"These two images, acquired by one of the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellites on 2 and 12 September, show the Libyan desert before and after the aftermath of Storm Daniel," the European environment-monitoring program Copernicus, which operates the Sentinel satellites, said in a statement . "The image on the left depicts the desert in its normal state, while the image on the right shows the flooded areas in cyan and blue tones."

Night-time images obtained by U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) spacecraft and processed by British Earth-observation researcher Simon Proud show the extent of power blackouts following the storm, in comparison with images taken before Daniel's passage.

"In the aftermath of the horrific flooding in Libya, satellites are helping to map the scale of the human and physical destruction," Proud said in a post on X , sharing the images. "These two 'night lights' images from @NOAASatellites VIIRS [Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite] sensor show far fewer lights after the bad weather hit. Many areas without power now."

city lights shine yellowish-green against a black nighttime backdrop in this satellite image.

RELATED STORIES:

 Satellites reveal catastrophic year for emperor penguins amid climate crisis in Antarctica (photos)

 Removing carbon from Earth's atmosphere may not 'fix' climate change

 Climate 'points of no return' may be much closer than we thought

Satellites owned by U.S. Earth-observation company Planet provided a more detailed look at the ravaged Derna, where flooding from the collapsed dams dug a wide muddy trough through the city as the usually dried-out Wadi Derna river swelled far beyond its banks.

In the images taken in the wake of Storm Daniel, whole neighborhoods can be seen submerged in muddy water, bridges that once connected the river's two banks are missing and whole batches of houses along the river's banks have disappeared.

Medicanes, such as storm Daniel, are relatively rare, with only one to three forming on average every year, according to Reading University in the U.K. To see a medicane affect a Saharan country, such as Libya, however, is even more unusual, as these storms are known to more commonly strike the western part of the Mediterranean region, the university said in a statement. Data suggests that climate change may be decreasing the frequency of medicanes, but any that do form amid a warming Earth will likely be more powerful than they would be in an overall cooler climate.
Photo: The Canadian Press

A former First Nations independent school principal found liable for taking school funds has had his teaching certificate cancelled.

B.C. Commissioner for School Regulation Ana Mohammed said in a decision released Sept. 12 that Kelly Joseph Rambeau had taken between $286,287 and $337,133 from the school between 2015 and 2018.

Rambeaus conduct had the potential to undermine the reputation of the profession, including in relation to truth, reconciliation and healing, Mohammed said.

The decision does not say where in B.C. the school is located.

Research indicates the school is the Coast Tsimshian Academy in Lax Kw'alaams (Port Simpson), north of Prince Rupert.

Auditors noticed irregularities in the schools petty cash and travel expense claims in 2018.

The decision said Rambeau regularly submitted credit card statements for payment in his and another name. He claimed he had hired that person to do administrative work.

In other cases, he had issued himself reimbursement cheques for expenses already reimbursed.

In late 2018, the school filed suit against Rambeau. He ultimately agreed to acknowledge his conduct, apologize and pay $175,000.

I was careless with the school finances and benefited from those reimbursements for personal expenses I was not entitled to, he told the court.
Victory Washington doesnt know where she and her son will end up if their Ephesus Church Road apartment, a short walk from Chapel Hill shopping centers, schools and bus lines, is replaced with more expensive housing.

Washington landed at the Kings Arms Apartments about 10 years ago, after her family was displaced by redevelopment in Brooklyn, New York. She works on UNCs campus, and her adult son, who is not fully capable of living on his own, works at Silverspot Cinema.

They are already struggling after last years $230 rent hike, to $1,200 for a two-bedroom apartment built over 50 years ago, she told the Chapel Hill Town Council on Wednesday. Newer apartments are renting for nearly twice that amount, according to online listings.

Now Phillips Management Group, which owns Kings Arms, wants to replace 65 lower-cost apartments with 212 new apartments.

The Reserve at Blue Hill plan would keep about 31 apartments affordable for tenants earning 65% to 80% of the area median income.

Thats roughly $46,000 to $56,600 a year for a single person, or $65,700 to $80,800 for a family of four.

The building that could replace Kings Arms Apartments in Chapel Hill would offer largely market-rate rentals. The developer has offered to lease 31 apartments at a lower rate.

Weve worked in the community for the last 10 years. We lived at the same place for the last 10 years. Where would I go? What would I do? Washington asked. We dont make that kind of money to afford whatever Kings Arms is offering us.

Mayor Pam Hemminger and Town Council members agreed, telling architect and project representative Richard Gurlitz to come back with a better plan if an official application is submitted.

The concept plan is only a rough outline of how the property might be developed, and the council does not vote on concept plans. An official application would trigger additional public hearings and a council vote.

Neighbors say keep trees, fix flooding

The reality is people are moving to the Triangle, and at least several people apply every time an apartment opens up in Chapel Hill, Hemminger said. The town needs more housing to serve the people who work here, she said.

There may be a different way to go about this whole project ... but (Im) not pleased with what was presented here at all as far as taking care of community, creating a better sense of place, even aligning with Complete Community, Hemminger said.

The 7.6-acre Reserve project lies just outside the towns Blue Hill District, where projects that meet district design guidelines only need town manager and Community Design Commission approval. The site has a driveway off the Ephesus Church Road roundabout and is across the street from The Hartley apartments, which replaced the formerly affordable Park Apartments.

The project would require the council to approve a conditional zoning, allowing construction of a taller building at twice the current density than is now permitted. It would add 319 parking spaces under the building and in surface lots, plus amenities, including a dog park, play area and pool, and community spaces where a food truck could park and people could gather.

A birds eye overview shows a three- to five-story building with three wings and 212 apartments replacing the 65-unit Kings Arms Apartments on Ephesus Church Road in Chapel Hill.

The developer wants to keep as many mature trees as possible and create stormwater storage and filtration where none has existed for 50 years, Gurlitz said.

Hamlin Park neighbors next door said stormwater is a key concern. They shared photos and a video of muddy water flowing across grass, a pool and a parking lot. There have been four flash floods in the last 15 months, Clarence Andrews said.

The owners of Kings Arms have not talked with them, but they would like to see pavement and rooftops limited, said Sara Henderson, a Hamlin Park resident and vice president of its homeowners association. They also want to see trees between the properties preserved and an upgraded drainage system, she said.

Replacing affordable apartments

But the biggest issue for Kings Arms residents, neighbors and council members is losing more affordable housing. Despite the towns years-long efforts and millions of dollars in subsidies and projects, housing at modest income levels remains a critical need.

The project could be better in terms of its size, parking, and how it meets the towns Complete Community goals, particularly in regard to housing for everyone, Council member Jessica Anderson said. Keeping people in their homes is key to doing the project, she said.

There are ways to redevelop and continue to include people in the community, and these are folks that we keep saying are important in this community, that they keep our community running, and that we want them to feel welcome, Anderson said. Well, I think the way that we ensure that they feel welcome is that we make sure they still have a home here.

A concept plan for The Reserve at Blue Hill includes a pedestrian bridge between two wings. A driveway to the parking lot in the rear of the project would connect drivers with Ephesus Church Road in Chapel Hill.

Mayor Pro Tem Karen Stegman suggested adding townhomes and cottage courts, along with more green and recreational space. Otherwise, the developer shouldnt bring back the plan, she and Council member Paris Miller-Foushee said. Council member Adam Searing agreed, suggesting the developer work with an affordable housing nonprofit to preserve affordable housing for the future.

Council member Michael Parker suggested relocating the tenants during construction and letting them return to the new apartments.

Phillips Management Group partner Jeremy Rydberg, founder of Evergreen Asset Management, told The News & Observer this year that Kings Arms tenants could get help looking for new housing and with moving expenses.

The town tried working with the Park Apartments across the street to relocate residents without much success, Hemminger said Wednesday, because there werent enough affordable apartments available.

They need help figuring out where to go, she said. Its not just like they can go somewhere else.

The Orange Report

Calling Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Hillsborough readers. Check out The Orange Report, a free weekly digest of some of the top stories for and about Orange County published in The News & Observer and The Herald-Sun. Get your newsletter delivered straight to your inbox every Thursday featuring stories by our local journalists. Sign up for our newsletter here. For even more Orange-focused news and conversation, join our Facebook group "Chapel Hill Carrboro Chat."
On Sept. 7, 2023, major U.S. news outlets, including CNN and The Washington Post, reported that SpaceX CEO Elon Musk had personally ordered access to the company's Starlink satellite internet service "turned off" or "shut down" in Russia-occupied Crimea to disrupt a planned Ukrainian military attack there. The incident took place in 2022.

CNN reported that:

Elon Musk secretly ordered his engineers to turn off his company's Starlink satellite communications network near the Crimean coast last year to disrupt a Ukrainian sneak attack on the Russian naval fleet, according to an excerpt adapted from Walter Isaacson's new biography of the eccentric billionaire titled "Elon Musk." As Ukrainian submarine drones strapped with explosives approached the Russian fleet, they "lost connectivity and washed ashore harmlessly," Isaacson writes. Musk's decision, which left Ukrainian officials begging him to turn the satellites back on, was driven by an acute fear that Russia would respond to a Ukrainian attack on Crimea with nuclear weapons, a fear driven home by Musk's conversations with senior Russian officials, according to Isaacson, whose new book is set to be released by Simon & Schuster on September 12.

Citing the above CNN report, The Washington Post wrote:

SpaceX cut off Starlink satellite internet service to Ukrainian submarine drones last year just as they were launching an attack on the Russian Black Sea Fleet, according to a new biography of SpaceX founder Elon Musk. The new details of the previously reported incident underscore how dependent the U.S. government has become on a company that once had to fight in court to become part of the Washington establishment. The armed submarine drones were poised to attack the Russian fleet, according to a CNN report that cited an excerpt of a forthcoming biography of Musk by Walter Isaacson, a former CNN CEO and Time magazine editor. Instead, according to the book, which goes on sale Tuesday, the drones "lost connectivity and washed ashore harmlessly."

These reports were based, in turn, on a published excerpt from a then-soon-to-be-released book about Musk by Walter Isaacson. Isaacson, who said he was communicating with Musk in real time as the Crimea drama unfolded, had written:

Throughout the evening and into the night, [Musk] personally took charge of the situation. Allowing the use of Starlink for the attack, he concluded, could be a disaster for the world. So he secretly told his engineers to turn off coverage within 100 kilometers of the Crimean coast.

However, as Musk objected immediately and Isaacson would clarify soon after, the claim that Musk had ordered Starlink coverage in Crimea "turned off" wasn't entirely accurate. (Both CNN and The Washington Post subsequently corrected their reports.)

Musk responded to the allegations on X (formally Twitter) in a series of messages in which he claimed the following: (1) Starlink was never activated in the region in the first place, and therefore he never deactivated it, and (2) the Ukrainian government had asked him to activate Starlink "all the way to Sevastopol," the largest city in Crimea, and he refused to do that to avoid escalating the conflict.

(@elonmusk on X)

(@elonmusk on X)

The New York Times interpreted Musk's clarifications as a tacit acknowledgment of his intent, i.e., the disruption of a Ukrainian attack (emphasis ours):

[...] Mr. Musk responded on his social media platform to say that he hadn't disabled the service but had rather refused to comply with an emergency request from Ukrainian officials to enable Starlink connections to Sevastopol on the occupied Crimean peninsula. That was in effect an acknowledgment that he had made the decision to prevent a Ukrainian attack.

In response to Musk's tweets, Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, tagged the billionaire in a post on X that claimed "civilians, children are being killed" because of the unavailability of Starlink's services.

Isaacson, the biographer, issued his own clarification on Sept. 8, acknowledging that Starlink was not enabled in Crimea in the first place:

To clarify on the Starlink issue: the Ukrainians THOUGHT coverage was enabled all the way to Crimea, but it was not. They asked Musk to enable it for their drone sub attack on the Russian fleet. Musk did not enable it, because he thought, probably correctly, that would cause a major war.

One unanswered question was why Starlink access hadn't been activated in Crimea. During an All-In Summit appearance on Sept. 11, 2023, Musk returned to the topic and stated that Starlink could not operate in Russia-occupied Ukraine because U.S. sanctions forbade it without special permission.

The recording from Musk's speech at the conference was shared on Sept. 13, 2023, on the All-In Podcast YouTube channel:

Musk was now claiming that at the time of the in-question situation, Starlink access around Crimea was not turned on. The reason was because the U.S. had imposed sanctions on Russia, and SpaceX was not allowed to turn on connectivity in Crimea without explicit government approval. Moreover, Musk said, Ukraine didn't give SpaceX any "advance warning or heads up." He said he got urgent calls from the Ukrainian government in the middle of the night saying that he needed to turn on Starlink access in Crimea.

Comparing the situation to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, Musk claimed that the Ukrainian government was asking SpaceX to "proactively take part in a major act of war." He said that SpaceX was supporting Ukraine, but the Ukrainian government was not in charge of U.S people or companies, adding "that's not how it works." He added that although he's not U.S. President Joe Biden's biggest fan, if he had received a presidential directive to turn on Starlink connectivity in Crimea, he would have done so, because he does "regard the president as the chief executive officer of the country." But no such requests came through, he said.

We have reached out to the U.S. Department of Treasury for confirmation that the existing U.S. sanctions would prohibit activating Starlink access in Crimea, but as of this writing, we had not received a reply. We also contacted Mykhailo Fedorov, deputy prime minister for innovation, education, science and technology development and minister of digital transformation of Ukraine, and we will update this article if or when we receive responses.

The Book That Prompted CNN's Article

This is the description of "Elon Musk" by Walter Isaacson on publisher Simon & Schuster's website:

From the author of Steve Jobs and other bestselling biographies, this is the astonishingly intimate story of the most fascinating and controversial innovator of our eraa rule-breaking visionary who helped to lead the world into the era of electric vehicles, private space exploration, and artificial intelligence. Oh, and took over Twitter.

The biography, as the description continued, documents two years of encounters between Isaacson and Musk:

For two years, Isaacson shadowed Musk, attended his meetings, walked his factories with him, and spent hours interviewing him, his family, friends, coworkers, and adversaries. The result is the revealing inside story, filled with amazing tales of triumphs and turmoil, that addresses the question: are the demons that drive Musk also what it takes to drive innovation and progress?

Snopes reached out to Isaacson for more details about Musk, Starlink and Crimea. He did not reply.

Sources:

Amazon.Com. https://www.amazon.com/Elon-Musk-Walter-Isaacson/dp/1982181281. Accessed 8 Sept. 2023.

Borger, Julian. "Elon Musk Ordered Starlink to Be Turned off during Ukraine Offensive, Book Says." The Guardian, 7 Sept. 2023. The Guardian, https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/sep/07/elon-musk-ordered-starlink-turned-off-ukraine-offensive-biography.

Davenport, Christian, and Joseph Menn. "Musk Cut Internet to Ukraine's Military as It Was Attacking Russian Fleet." Washington Post, 8 Sept. 2023. www.washingtonpost.com, https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2023/09/07/ukraine-starlink-musk-biography/.

Elon Musk. 2023. www.simonandschuster.com, https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Elon-Musk/Walter-Isaacson/9781982181284.

Lyngaas, Sean. "CNN Exclusive: 'How Am I in This War?': New Musk Biography Offers Fresh Details about the Billionaire's Ukraine Dilemma | CNN Politics." CNN, 7 Sept. 2023, https://www.cnn.com/2023/09/07/politics/elon-musk-biography-walter-isaacson-ukraine-starlink/index.html.

"Opinion | 'How Am I in This War?': The Untold Story of Elon Musk's Support for Ukraine." Washington Post, 7 Sept. 2023, https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/09/07/elon-musk-starlink-ukraine-russia-invasion/.
Mexico  the land of mariachis, pyramids and tequila  declared its independence from Spain in 1810, but didnt win that war until 1821.

The countrys rich history and culture is unique, as is its food, music and people.

Test your knowledge about Mexico by taking this quiz. Our experts  who were not allowed to use Google  had a hard time answering all questions correctly.
Former President Donald Trump has no idea whether Republicans will vote to impeach President Joe Biden .

But he does have a theory on what motivated House Republicans to launch a Biden impeachment inquiry: revenge.

They did it to me, Trump told former Fox and NBC host Megyn Kelly during an hourlong interview on SiriusXM radio that aired Thursday. And had they not done it to me, I think, and nobody officially said this, but I think had they not done it to me  perhaps you wouldn't have it being done to them."

Democrats twice led the charge in impeaching Trump, first on charges of abusing his power and obstructing congressional investigations and later for  incitement of insurrection , following the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Trump was acquitted by the Senate both times.



On Tuesday, Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced the decision to open an impeachment inquiry into Biden over allegations of bribery and corruption. Some Republicans have said there is a lack of smoking-gun evidence linking Biden to money his son Hunter received from Ukraine and China.

In the interview with Kelly, Trump warned that attempts from the GOP to indict Biden could be next.

This is going to happen with indictments, too, said Trump, who is facing dozens of charges across four indictments, including two at the federal level.



Theyre fake indictments, Trump said of his own legal challenges. And I think you're going to see that as time goes by, you're going to see Republicans when they're in power, doing it. And it's a shame when that happens. I'm not in favor of that, but that's what's going to happen because that's human nature.

The interview with Kelly is the first time the two have sat down publicly since 2016, after a heated exchange during a Republican presidential debate set off a long-lasting feud, fueled by remarks Trump made following the debate saying Kelly had blood coming out of her wherever.
A dispute over a critical waterway separating Haiti and the Dominican Republic is threatening to spill over into a diplomatic crisis this week, with Santo Domingo threatening to shut down its land, air and sea crossings with Haiti.

Dominican President Luis Abinaders government issued the threat this week after accusing Haitians of constructing a canal on the Massacre River in northeastern Haiti in violation of a nearly century-old treaty agreement between the two nations that share the island of Hispaniola.

With the shutdown threatened for Thursday, Haiti deployed a delegation of technicians late Wednesday afternoon for Santo Domingo to discuss the water resources shared by the two countries, Haitis Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

They were trying to find a just and definitive solution to the problem over the equitable use of the Massacre River, the ministry said in a brief statement.

The development has caught the attention of U.S. officials, who are attempting to connect with the two sides before any drastic actions are taken. The U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo has alerted Americans of the possible border shutdown, warning that if the borders close they will not have the ability to cross between the two countries and will need to make alternative arrangements. The embassy also noted that that the Dajabon-Ouanaminthe and Elias Pina-Belladere land border crossings are already closed.

The possible water war has repercussions beyond northern Haiti, where the Massacre River straddles the Dominican city of Dajabon and the Haitian city of Ouanaminthe and was the site of the execution of thousands of Haitians by Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo in 1937. The killing became known as the Parsley Massacre.

Haiti is the Dominican Republics third-largest trading partner. The Dominican Republic exports $1 billion in goods to Haiti and imports about $11 million. The Dominican Republics Central Bank said the informal trade that takes place along the border brings in another $430 million.

In question in the conflict is Haitis right to the water, and whether either action  the threatened shutdown or the canals construction is in violation of a 1929 agreement that established the rights of both nations to fairly and equitably use the waters of rivers straddling the border.

The waterway has always been a source of conflict between the two nations. Haitians in the past have accused Dominicans of acting unilaterally with their own construction and in violation of the treaty. In 2021 Haiti President Jovenel Moise started construction of a canal and was forced to stop after Dominican authorities protested.

That year, the two governments came to a new agreement specifically about the Massacre River, forming a Binational Water Sector technical commission and agreeing neither side would act unilaterally. But Dominicans insisted that first the construction had to stop. Moise was assassinated shortly after and the Cuban firm doing the work suspended construction because of lack of payment. Recently the work began again as a private initiative using farmers.

Dominican authorities say the current canal construction is the work of private individuals seeking to profit off the rivers water. Haitian government sources say it is possible some politicians, seeking to curry favor and undermine a weak central government, are fanning the flames.

The pending border closures were announced Monday. Dominican authorities announced they had suspended the entry of all persons involved in the conflict, ceased issuing visas to Haitian citizens until further notice and maintained the total closure of the border at Dajabon.

If the conflict is not resolved by Thursday, the Dominican Republic also said it would completely close the border for land, sea and air commerce, according to a government statement.
For months, two of the 21 defendants in the Hertel & Brown federal fraud case have pushed to have a judge toss statements that the U.S. Attorney's Office said the two made to the FBI.

With that request still pending in U.S. District Court in Erie, the two defendants and eight others have made a request that is even more sweeping. They want the judge to dismiss the indictment against the them.

The two are arguing that the prosecutor on the case improperly included summaries of the disputed statements in court filings on July 17, and that the Erie Times-News' reporting on that filing in a story on July 19 will taint the jury pool and deny the defendants a fair trial if the statements are suppressed prior to trial. The defendants are claiming the disclosures exposed potential jurors to statements that might not be admissible as evidence.

In a series of court filings that started in late July and ended on Sept. 8, the two defendants and others are contending that the remedy for the disclosures is for U.S. District Susan Paradise Baxter to throw out the indictment, which a grand jury returned in November 2021.

In May 2022, a superseding indictment was issued that included the original charges but added forfeiture allegations. The defendants are seeking dismissal of the superseding indictment.

The government's inclusion of the summaries of the statements in the July 17 court filing was "reckless," lawyers for the two defendants who initiated the dismissal request said in their dismissal motion, filed July 25. The defendants are Jaqueline Renee Exley and Julie Ann Johnson, both physical therapists who worked at the Erie-based Hertel & Brown Physical & Aquatic Therapy.

Law enforcement vehicles park outside what was then the main office of Hertel & Brown Physical & Aquatic Therapy in the West Erie Plaza in Millcreek Township on Feb. 23, 2021. The searches of the Hertel & Brown offices preceded the federal indictment of Hertel & Brown as a business and 20 employees in November 2021.

"These disclosures constitute the type which the United States Supreme Court has unequivocally held to be prejudicial to any defendant's right to a fair trial," according to the motion. "The Government's filing has not only prejudiced Johnson and Exley, but also every one of the 21 defendants who deserve their rights to a fair trial too."

Joining the two in the request are eight of the other 19 defendants in the case, meaning that 10  or half  of the 21 defendants are seeking a dismissal of the indictment. Included in the eight are the three lead defendants: Hertel & Brown as a business, and its founders and co-owners, Aaron W. Hertel and Michael R. Brown.

The U.S. Attorney's Office, which has argued the statements of Exley and Johnson are accurate and admissible, is also arguing the request for dismissal is without merit.

"Unsurprisingly, Defendants Exley and Johnson do not cite any legal authority that supports their request for dismissal of the Superseding Indictment," the prosecutor on the case, Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Trabold, said in a response filed in court on Aug. 10. "Not one case. Not one statute. Not one rule. Because it does not exist."

Pretrial battles proceed as all defendants plead not guilty

All 21 defendants were indicted on charges that they conspired in an overbilling scheme to defraud Medicare, Medicaid and private insurers of $22 million over 14 years, starting shortly after Hertel & Brown launched in January 2007 and ending in October 2021. The case is the largest-ever white-collar criminal prosecution in federal court in Erie.

The indictment charges all the defendants with one count each of the felonies of health care fraud and criminal conspiracy to commit wire fraud and health care fraud.

All the defendants have pleaded not guilty and are free on unsecured bonds. No trial date has been set.

Hertel & Brown remains in business, but is down to one office from five. Its main office had been at the West Erie Plaza in Millcreek Township. Its remaining office is in what had been the Iron Oxygen fitness center in the plaza on the east side of Pittsburgh Avenue at West 12th Street, just southeast of the West Erie Plaza.

Looming over the case is the possibility of guilty pleas.

In court in March 2022  four months after the indictment  Trabold said an unspecified number of defendants were cooperating and were ready to testify at trial. His statement signaled plea deals were in the works, though none of the defendants has pleaded guilty to date.

The plea talks, if they occur, are not expected to intensify until after Baxter rules on whether to suppress evidence in the Hertel & Brown case. Many of the other defense lawyers in the case are still determining whether they will file suppression motions, according to court records.

The requests to dismiss the indictment add another layer to the case. Baxter had not set a hearing date on those requests as of Wednesday. She could also rule without holding a hearing.

Two defendants continue to dispute statements FBI said they made

Exley and Johnson since January have claimed they did not tell the FBI agents what the agents said they did. They have also claimed in court records that the U.S. Attorney's Office considers the statements to the FBI to be "confessions" and "smoking-gun" evidence of widespread billing fraud at Hertel & Brown  though the office disputes that it made those characterizations, and the office has not described the statements that way in court records.

The Pittsburgh-based lawyers for Exley and Johnson filed motions on May 15 in which they asked Baxter to suppress the statements.

They are arguing the FBI violated Exley and Johnson's constitutional rights when they interviewed them following an investigative search of Hertel & Brown's main office in February 2021. The FBI and the U.S. Attorney's Office used the evidence gathered in the search to prepare the indictment. The lawyers for Exley and Johnson did not detail the statements in their suppression motions but described what they said were the circumstances of the interviews.

In response, the prosecutor, Trabold, filed his objections to the motions to suppress on July 17. Trabold in the filing summarized what he said the FBI agents said Exley and Johnson told them about the operations at Hertel & Brown. The agents took notes during the interviews but did not record the statements, according to court records.

Exley and Johnson, according to Trabold's filing, told FBI agents that they and other employees at Hertel & Brown regularly overbilled for services at the direction of the business' owners, Hertel and Brown. Also according to what Trabold said in the filing, Exley and Johnson told the FBI that Hertel and Brown told the employees how to bill for services in the improper manner. Johnson also told the FBI "that at Hertel & Brown that is the way it has always been done and we turned a blind eye," according to the filing.

Exley and Johnson, according to the summaries, said they and other employees billed for physical therapy treatments as if they were performed by physical therapists even though physical therapy assistants or physical therapy technicians actually treated the patients. The billing rate is higher for physical therapists than for assistants or technicians.

Defendants, prosecutor trade arguments over disclosures

Baxter scheduled a hearing on the suppression motions for Oct. 19. In the meantime, the lawyers for Exley and Johnson filed the July 25 motion asking Baxter to dismiss the indictment. That filing sparked a flurry of responses and counter-responses that were filed in court through Sept. 8.

Trabold's July 17 filing "contained purposeful and in appropriate public disclosures of the contents of Defendants' alleged confessions," the lawyer for Exley, Jennifer Bouriat, and the lawyers for Johnson, Efrem Grail and Julia Gitelman, said in their motion to dismiss. They described the disclosures as "reckless" and "disturbing" and a "violation of clear ethical and court rules." They said the information should have stayed confidential.

The disclosure of the summaries of the disputed statements "raises serious questions about the integrity of the prosecution and about Defendants' ability to have a fair trial," according to the dismissal motion. "The Government's version of Defendants' statements, which, again, Defendants' strongly dispute, is now publicly filed on the docket, and recited in the media as if proven fact for anyone to access."

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Trabold, the lead federal prosecutor in Erie, is prosecuting the Hertel & Brown case.

Trabold said he did nothing wrong in the response he filed on Aug. 10. He said he included the summaries in his July 17 filing to rebut the defendants' claims in their motions to suppress, in which Trabold said they attacked the credibility of the lead FBI agent who conducted the interviews.

Trabold also said the case is at far too early of a stage to claim the media coverage will affect jury selection by the time the case goes to trial. If media coverage becomes an issue, he also said, the remedy would not be to dismiss the indictment. He said the remedy would be for Baxter to order a change of venue, in which a trial would be held at another location rather than the federal courthouse in Erie, or a change of venire, in which the pool of jurors would be drawn from an area outside of the federal judicial district that includes Erie.

Trabold described as "erroneous" Exley and Johnson's "argument that the content of their statements was not relevant to the Government's response to their motions to suppress."

"Given the nature of the factual and legal claims made in Defendants Exley's and Johnson's motions to suppress, the content of the statements was relevant and necessary to the Government's ability to effectively counter those claims," Trabold said in his response.

"Defendants Exley and Johnson each gave a detailed description of their version of events before, during and after their interviews. They cannot cry foul when the Government does the same in order to refute the claims that they have brought before the court."

The other defendants who joined Exley and Johnson in their dismissal request also questioned the relevancy of the inclusion of the summaries of the statements in Trabold's July 17 motion. On Aug. 4, Hertel & Brown as a business and the individual defendants Hertel and Brown filed their motion also asking Baxter to dismiss the indictment. Also on Aug. 4, five other defendants filed their own motion to dismiss.

The five are Patricia Berchtold, Austin Dudenhoefer, Jeremy R. Bowes, Marissa Sue Hull and Jessica Jeanne Morphy. Berchtold was a billing specialist at Hertel & Brown who typically worked remotely from Florida, according to court records. Dudenhoefer and Morphy are physical therapists and Bowes and Hull are physical therapy assistants.

Other defendants weigh in on disclosures

Trabold's July 17 filing focused on the disputed statements of Exley and Johnson alone, and the number and names of other defendants who gave statements to the FBI have not been disclosed in court records.

But the other defendants who want the indictment dismissed are arguing Trabold's inclusion of the summaries of the statements also harmed them.

"The excerpts from the alleged confessions that the Government improperly placed in its briefs for consumption by the press contain assertions that implicate all defendants and all Hertel & Brown employees," lawyers for the five defendants said in their motion to dismiss.

U.S. District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter is presiding over the Hertel & Brown case at the federal courthouse in Erie.

The lawyers for Hertel & Brown and Hertel and Brown raised similar concerns in their own motion to dismiss. That motions states that "The prosecution summarized and quoted what it alleges Exley and Johnson stated concerning 'the owners,' including purported admissions of guilt by Hertel and Brown (which are disputed, as the government knows, by all of Exley, Johnson, Hertel and Brown)."

The lawyers for all the defendants in the dismissal motions are unified in asking that Baxter toss the indictment as the appropriate way to end the case.

"The Government's conduct in responding to Ms. Exley and Ms. Johnson," the lawyers for the five defendants said in their motion to dismiss, "was not an isolated incident and it appears to have been motivated by improper purposes, including pressuring defendants into pleas and prejudicing defendants who choose to exercise their trial rights, and the only effective way to vindicate this improper conduct and to, in the future, encourage compliance with the rules and ethical standards is dismissal of the indictment."

Trabold responded in filings docketed on Aug. 25.

The defendants, he said in the filings, "have not cited any caselaw or other legal authority that supports dismissal of the Superseding Indictment as a remedy for any of the errors they allege. In any event, no errors have occurred here. The prosecution has simply responded to pretrial motions by including facts necessary to convey the totality of the circumstances."

Trabold also said that, in many criminal cases, the litigation of suppression issues involves the disclosure of information that might never be presented at trial.

"Motions to suppress and responses thereto often contain information that is not relevant to nor admissible at a subsequent trial, " Trabold said in his response. "However, that same information is relevant and necessary to deciding the motion to suppress."

The lawyers for Hertel & Brown and Hertel and Brown as individuals responded on Sept. 8, the deadline for the final filing on the matter. As Trabold stood by his arguments in his filings, the lawyers stood by theirs.

"In a case that was always likely to be long and heavily contested, on the most important and most disputed issues," the lawyers said, "the prosecution has already put defendants at a disadvantage."

Contact Ed Palattella at epalattella@timesnews.com. Follow him on X @ETNpalattella.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Hertel & Brown defendants seek dismissal of indictment in fraud case
Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes has reportedly made friends with ex-Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Jen Shah in prison.

39-year-old Holmes was convicted in January 2022 on four counts of fraud and conspiracy for lying about the capabilities of her biotech companys blood testing technology and conning investors out of millions of dollars.

49-year-old Shah pleaded guilty to fraud charges in July last year following her involvement in a telemarketing scam.

Both women are incarcerated at the Federal Prison Camp in Bryan, Texas, where Holmes is sentenced to 11 years and Shah is sentenced to six and a half years.

Theyre friends. Theyre both rehabilitating and have bonded over being on this journey of positive change, Shahs representative, Chris Giovanni, told People magazine on Thursday (14 September).

Their situations brought them together, and they have a good understanding of one another. Theyre getting through it together.

Giovanni added that Shah has taken on a mothering role towards Holmes, who gave birth to her second daughter this year.

Jens given her a lot of advice. Shes even met Elizabeths baby and held her, Giovanni said.

Elizabeth Holmes (left) and Jen Shah (Getty Images/Bravo)

Holmes is also a regular at the fitness classes that Shah conducts, called Sha-mazing Abs, according to Giovanni.

Jen gets all the ladies together and they rally behind her while she teaches them fitness moves, and Elizabeth has been there right along with them, he said.

Holmess lawyer did not immediately respond to The Independents request for comment.

In July, The Independent reported that Holmess prison sentence had been shortened by nearly two years.

The Bureau of Prisons (BOP) database shows Holmes projected release date is 29 December 2032, nine years and seven months after she reported to the minimum security Camp Bryan federal prison in Texas on 30 May this year.

According to the BOP, prisoners can be granted early release for good behaviour, completion of substance abuse programmes or receive credit for productive activities.

The spokesperson told The Independent that every inmate earns a sentence discount of 54 days per year for every year they are deemed to have met good conduct requirements under the First Step Act.

Similarly, Shahs sentence has been reduced twice since she entered prison on 17 February. She was originally scheduled for release in mid-2029; however, records now reportedly show her release date as 1 July 2028.

Holmes and her former partner and Theranos COO Ramesh Sunny Balwani, who was convicted at a separate trial of 12 counts of fraud and conspiracy, were also ordered to repay victims $452m.

She claimed to have developed medical devices that could diagnose hundreds of diseases and medical conditions with just a pinprick of blood.

But when it emerged that the blood testing technology didnt do what she claimed it did, the company imploded and she was charged with fraud and conspiracy in 2018.

Holmes continues to appeal her sentence and conviction from behind bars.
After employees mounted strong backlash to the plan to replace family Disney annual passes with a stipend, Central Florida Tourism Oversight District leaders caved slightly and announced they were going back to the drawing board.

The passes had been a well-known perk of working for the district, which until this year was known as Reedy Creek and controlled by Disney. The firefighters, maintenance workers and other employees were given free annual passes to the parks, much like some actual Disney employees, and were allowed to maintain that perk after their retirement.

 WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS

It proved to be a strong draw, but costly. The new board, seeking to find ways to pay millions of dollars for its ongoing legal battles against the company, announced the ending of the perk a few weeks ago. While it was initially explained as a move to comply with ethics laws, documents and statements revealed the reasoning to be cost savings.

Board members said most employees didnt utilize the perk and said they would replace it with a stipend that would cover the cost of an annual pass or be available for any other use.

Read: Police make arrest in connection with vandalism at 2 Orlando LGBT+ centers

However, ex-employees, as well as ones with larger families, complained, saying the memories created at the park were special.

During a meeting Wednesday evening, CFTOD Administrator Glen Gilzean said after meeting with employees, the district would reexamine the stipend and raise the allowance. He said a new figure would be announced at the end of September.

Read: Bicyclist seriously injured in Lake County hit-and-run crash, FHP asks for help finding driver

Furthermore, he said the district was exploring allowing employees to purchase their annual passes from Disney under a company-led partner program.

Board member Bridget Ziegler added to Gilzeans comments, thanking employees for sticking with the district and working hard despite the difficult transition period and ongoing lawsuits.

Read: Gun discovered in students backpack at DeLand Middle School

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
The 360 shows you diverse perspectives on the days top stories and debates.

Do Disney princesses make a positive or negative impact on kids? Conclusions vary. (Photo illustration by Victoria Ellis for Yahoo News; photos: Getty Images, Everett Collection)

What's happening

After decades of hand-wringing over how Disney princesses might impact self-image when it comes to young fans, a new, albeit small, study has concluded that these characters actually come with more possibility for good than harm.

The research, published by the American Psychological Association journal Psychology of Popular Media, studied the impact that Disney princesses had on the confidence of children over the course of a year, looking specifically at body esteem and gendered play. Among 340 children based in Denver, it found that having a favorite princess only improved these areas.

"With childrens media, people tend to be critical or dismissive of what kids, especially girls, like, Jane Shawcroft, a doctoral student researcher in the Department of Communication at the University of California, Davis and lead author of the study, said in a press release. Disney princesses really matter to young children, and we should also recognize that media centered on women and that tell womens stories are important.

This comes at a relevant time, as Greta Gerwig's film Barbie broke box-office records while providing an opportunity for people to reevaluate their relationship with the Mattel doll. Like the film, Shawcroft's study provides an evolved perspective of the impact of Disney princesses, and one that takes into account the inclusion of more modern favorites like Moana  the Polynesian princess who debuted in 2016 and represents the push toward diversity and inclusion.

Why there's debate

Consensus is that Disney princesses have had major influence in pop culture, and particularly over young people who have idolized them since the 1937 debut of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. What has yet to be agreed upon, however, is whether that influence is a good or bad thing.

A 2004 study thought bad: Focusing on the messages about beauty and thinness in children's media, the findings, from lead author Sylvia Herbozo, concluded that Disney films Cinderella and The Little Mermaid had "the most body image-related messages" of the video content analyzed. The body ideal depicted in those films, the study found, was Eurocentric and thin, which was, in a 2015 study, deemed influential to body dissatisfaction in young girls.

This idea became a focal point in other works like Peggy Orensteins 2011 book Cinderella Ate My Daughter, as well as Jennifer Hartsteins Princess Recovery and Rebecca Hainss The Princess Problem. What connected these books was the concern that parents had in the early 2010s when it came to navigating a media landscape saturated with specific and limited depictions of beauty and femininity.

Sarah M. Coyne, a researcher at Brigham Young University, expanded on those findings in her own research in 2016, which found that young girls, specifically, might be influenced by the "particularly damaging stereotypes" depicted in these princesses's tales and appearances. Children with worse body esteem were also found to engage more with Disney princesses over time.

But by 2021, Coyne had a new understanding of their impact, taking into account the evolution of the princesses's stories. "Our prior study found that in the short-term, princess culture had a negative effect. But this changes over time," she said of the updated findings. "We're now seeing long-term positive effects of princess culture on how we think about gender." Plus, Coyne told Yahoo Life at the time, both boys and girls who were "really into princess culture" were found to "adhere less to hegemonic [toxic] masculinityand more likely to view women as equals  So that was the big news finding  princesses as this healing force for a lot of the toxic masculinity that we see portrayed in media.

By then, Moana and Frozen's Elsa and Anna had also represented a new type of Disney princess for which appearance wasn't the focal point.

Shawcroft's study, published in August, took that into account, as it categorized princesses as thin, average and above average/heavy to hone in on the various ways that kids interact and play with them, and what the character's body type might have to do with it. Ultimately, it was the physical activity that the "average" princesses were associated with, rather than their body's aesthetic, that seemingly contributed to higher body esteem in children that favored them.

Theyre running and climbing enormous mountains and fighting things, said Shawcroft. For these princesses, their stories are more about what they can do with their bodies than how their bodies look.

Conversely, princesses with thin bodies didn't have a directly negative impact on a child's body image.

Perspectives

Disney Princesses introduce children to body ideals

"I think parents think that the Disney Princess culture is safe. Thats the word I hear time and time againits 'safe.' But if were fully jumping in here and really embracing it, parents should really consider the long-term impact of the princess culture  Disney Princesses represent some of the first examples of exposure to the thin ideal. As women, we get it our whole lives, and it really does start at the Disney Princess level, at age three and four." Sarah M. Coyne, 2016

These stories perpetuate the 'beautiful is good' stereotype

"A content analysis of popular childrens videos revealed that, in the vast majority of them (84%), female physical attractiveness was associated with sociability, kindness, happiness, or success  heavier characters are depicted as evil, unattractive, unfriendly and cruel."  Sylvia Herbozo, 2004

The role of the princess has evolved for the better

"Over time, the princesses roles have changed, however, from being completely passive or even asleep during the final rescues in Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty, to assisting the prince in Pocahontas and Mulan. ... The princess role retained its femininity over time, and was rewarded for that, but also expanded to incorporate some traditionally masculine characteristics."  Lara Descartes, 2011

Princesses with active roles and average bodies can make children more confident

"Princesses with average body size created a protective effect, strengthening how confident children feel about their own bodies and freeing them to play in different ways."  Jane Shawcroft, 2023

Parents can contribute to positive perspectives of Disney princesses

"Focus on the humanity behind each princess, not just their appearance. Princesses like Moana are full of depth, passion, and goodness. The story isn't about how she looks, it's about following your dreams and finding who you are. Parents can take these interpersonal qualities and help their kids grow. We can show them that princesses offer a wide amount of depth beyond appearance."  Sarah M. Coyne, 2021, in an update of her 2016 conclusion
Photo: The Canadian Press Relatives of Maurice Mo Miller embrace after seeing his body at NYU Langone Health in New York.

Dozens of doctors and nurses silently lined the hospital hallway in tribute: For a history-making two months, a pigs kidney worked normally inside the brain-dead man on the gurney rolling past them.

The dramatic experiment came to an end Wednesday as surgeons at NYU Langone Health removed the pig kidney and returned the donated body of Maurice Mo Miller to his family for cremation.

It marked the longest a genetically modified pig kidney has ever functioned inside a human, albeit a deceased one. And by pushing the boundaries of research with the dead, the scientists learned critical lessons they're preparing to share with the Food and Drug Administration - in hopes of eventually testing pig kidneys in the living.

Its a combination of excitement and relief, Dr. Robert Montgomery, the transplant surgeon who led the experiment, told The Associated Press. Two months is a lot to have a pig kidney in this good a condition. That gives you a lot of confidence for next attempts.

Montgomery, himself a recipient of a heart transplant, sees animal-to-human transplants as crucial to ease the nations organ shortage. More than 100,000 people are on the national waiting list, most who need a kidney, and thousands will die waiting.

So-called xenotransplantation attempts have failed for decades  the human immune system immediately destroyed foreign animal tissue. Whats new: Trying pigs genetically modified so their organs are more humanlike.

Some short experiments in deceased bodies avoided an immediate immune attack but shed no light on a more common form of rejection that can take a month to form. Last year, University of Maryland surgeons tried to save a dying man with a pig heart - but he survived only two months as the organ failed for reasons that arent completely clear. And the FDA gave Montgomery's team a list of questions about how pig organs really perform their jobs compared to human ones.

Montgomery gambled that maintaining Miller's body on a ventilator for two months to see how the pig kidney worked could answer some of those questions.

Im so proud of you, Miller's sister, Mary Miller-Duffy, said in a tearful farewell at her brothers bedside this week.

Miller had collapsed and was declared brain-dead, unable to donate his organs because of cancer. After wrestling with the choice, Miller-Duffy donated the Newburgh, New York, man's body for the pig experiment. She recently got a card from a stranger in California who's awaiting a kidney transplant, thanking her for helping to move forward desperately needed research.

This has been quite the journey, Miller-Duffy said as she and her wife Sue Duffy hugged Montgomerys team.

On July 14, shortly before his 58th birthday, surgeons replaced Millers own kidneys with one pig kidney plus the animals thymus, a gland that trains immune cells. For the first month, the kidney worked with no signs of trouble.

But soon after, doctors measured a slight decrease in the amount of urine produced. A biopsy confirmed a subtle sign that rejection was beginning - giving doctors an opportunity to tell if it was treatable. Sure enough, the kidneys performance bounced back with a change in standard immune-suppressing medicines that patients use today.

We are learning that this is actually doable, said NYU transplant immunologist Massimo Mangiola.

The researchers checked off other FDA questions, including seeing no differences in how the pig kidney reacted to human hormones, excreted antibiotics or experienced medicine-related side effects.

It looks beautiful, its exactly the way normal kidneys look, Dr. Jeffrey Stern said Wednesday after removing the pig kidney at the 61-day mark for closer examination.

The next steps: Researchers took about 180 different tissue samples - from every major organ, lymph nodes, the digestive tract - to scour for any hints of problems due to the xenotransplant.

Experiments in the deceased cannot predict that the organs will work the same in the living, cautioned Karen Maschke, a research scholar at the Hastings Center who is helping develop ethics and policy recommendations for xenotransplant clinical trials.

But they can provide other valuable information, she said. That includes helping to tease out differences between pigs with up to 10 genetics changes that some research teams prefer  and those like Montgomery uses that have just a single change, removal of a gene that triggers an immediate immune attack.

Why were doing this is because there are a lot of people that unfortunately die before having the opportunity of a second chance at life, said Mangiola, the immunologist. And we need to do something about it.
The Department of Energy has committed to two new environmental restoration projects at the Hanford nuclear site rather than pay a fine that at one time was more than $1 million.

The Washington state Department of Ecology had issued the penalty because it said DOE was not giving it direct access to important information and data about environmental contamination at the reservation.

As a regulator at the Hanford site, it said it should be allowed access to electronic documents that many DOE employees and its contractor employees can routinely see and should have a way to search the information in DOEs main records repository, the Integrated Document Management System.

A search would help it determine what documents have information it needs, the Department of Ecology said.

Instead, the Department of Ecology said when it issued the penalty in early 2020 that it sometimes had to wait weeks or months for paper documents it determines it needs.

That was a change from earlier years when information was provided promptly, it said.

An employee of the Washington state Department of Ecology, a Hanford site regulator, takes a close-up look inside the Tank-Side Cesium Removal Systems process enclosure in September 2021.

DOE said in a statement Thursday that it has consistently provided information requested by the Department of Ecology needed for the state to issue permits for cleanup work.

Earlier it said that granting Ecology unfettered access to any database it independently identities would upset the balance of the Tri-Party Agreement.

Hanford access negotiated

The settlement agreement does not allow direct access to Hanford electronic databases, but DOE will set up a separate repository for Ecology with documents that the state agency needs for inspections to make sure environmental cleanup and monitoring meets legal requirements outlined in the Tri-Party Agreement.

The Tri-Party Agreement reached in 1989 by DOE and its regulators  Ecology and the Environmental Protection Agency  governs cleanup of the Hanford site.

The 580-square-mile site in Eastern Washington adjacent to Richland is contaminated with radioactive and hazardous chemical waste from the past production of nearly two-thirds of the plutonium for the nations nuclear weapons program during World War II and the Cold War.

Hanford was used to produce plutonium for the nations nuclear weapons program during World War II and the Cold War. Environmental cleanup is underway now.

Ecology officials have said they need quick access to information such as piping diagrams, tank inspection reports, problem evaluation reports and safety procedures.

Among the projects that Ecology regulates are Hanfords aging underground tanks storing 56 million gallons of radioactive and hazardous chemical waste. Tanks built as early as WWII are prone to leaking waste into the ground beneath them.

Were pleased to reach agreement with Energy on a solution that gets us what we need, said Laura Watson, director of the Department of Ecology.

Our job is to protect the people and environment in Washington, she said. In order to do our job, we need access to basic documents the U.S. Department of Energy is required to provide.

DOE said the agreement settles the dispute about access to DOE electronic data in a mutually acceptable outcome.

The settlement comes more than four years after the Department of Energy was accused by the state of missing a Tri-Party Agreement deadline related to policies for sharing Hanford information. The agreement has regularly been updated through the decades with new deadlines and requirements negotiated and added to address issues.

DOE also was out of compliance with two other sections of the agreement, allowing the state to fine it $30,000 for every week it was out of compliance.

The state issued a fine of just over $1 million at the start of 2020, and DOE appealed to the Washington state Pollution Control Hearings Board.

DOE penalty reduced

The board found in the Department of Ecologys favor on all counts, said David Bowen, manager of Ecologys Nuclear Waste Program, but reduced the fine to $540,000 in May 2022.

As DOE appealed that decision, the state and federal agencies entered negotiations and the case was paused.

DOE must set up the new repository of Tri-Party Agreement information by the end of 2024, under the requirements of the new agreement.

Part of the center of the 580-square-mile Hanford site is shown in June 2022 with the vitrification plant in the foreground.

But some documents and data are being added immediately to the repository, Bowen said.

Thats better than continuing litigation with no access, the state decided.

Routine electronic access to databases and reports became an issue for DOE due to medical privacy laws and the increasing threat of identity theft, which were not addressed in the Tri-Party Agreement.

The Department of Ecology found it was waiting to have documents cleared after an initial request, and then if the documents were needed again a few years later it had to wait on the same clearance process again.

Once information has been added to the new repository, it will not have to be cleared again, Bowen said.

In negotiations, state and federal officials have worked to better define what information is relevant to Tri-Party Agreement requirements, he said.

To settle the $540,000 fine, DOE has agreed to a project that will control weeds and conserve habitat across the Hanford site and it also will restore some of the Gable Mountain area at Hanford.

Gable Mountain holds an important place in the culture of area tribes. Tribes and bands, including the Wanapum, Yakamas, Nez Perce and Umatillas, have wanted Gable Mountain restored to its condition before settlers and tribes were made to leave as the federal government took over land for Hanford during WWII.

The two projects are projects that DOE was not previously required to do, Bowen said.

Without the agreement the fine paid by DOE would go into a general Washington state account.
After Irvine police said they saved a puppy from a fentanyl overdose, this week the owners say tests showed the animal did not have drugs in its system. (Irvine Police Department)

Days after Irvine police said they saved a pit bull puppy from a fentanyl overdose, the animals owner says he has been cleared to take his dog back after a preliminary drug test on the pup came back negative.

Theres one problem: The 29-year-old says he now has 14 days to pay the city more than $2,000 for the animals care.

Basically they are holding my puppy for ransom, Caleb Gibson, the dogs owner, told The Times. Im a college student on financial aid, so I dont have that kind of money to throw around.

Last week, Gibson and his girlfriend made headlines after police arrested the couple in a Walmart parking lot. Authorities said that the pair had drugs in their car and that Gibsons girlfriend feared Myla, their 8-week-old puppy, had somehow ingested fentanyl during the arrest. Police treated the dog with Narcan  a brand of the overdose-reversing drug naloxone  and said the animal immediately began to recover.

Then they sent the case to the district attorneys office for suspected drug possession and animal cruelty, but so far no charges have been filed. On Tuesday, Sgt. Karie Davies maintained that the animal had overdosed even though they have not found proof of drugs in its system. She said that a sample of the dogs blood had been sent to a laboratory for further testing.

We know it was fentanyl in the car, thats confirmed, Davies told The Times. The dog was overdosing, so whether the tests come back negative or not is irrelevant.

She confirmed that Gibson owed the city money, adding, "If he does pay the fees, he would be the owner of the dog."

She later clarified that paying the fees will only allow Gibson to retain legal ownership of the animal but that he will not be allowed to have the dog back until all legal issues are resolved.

In recent years there have been several viral news reports of dogs  especially police dogs  allegedly overdosing on fentanyl, though its not clear how often that actually happens. Experts say that canine overdoses are possible, but that dogs are far less sensitive to the drug than humans. And, just like with humans, drug experts say, it is not possible for animals to overdose simply from being exposed to the substance by touching or inhaling it, despite police sometimes making claims to the contrary.

"Law enforcement has been spreading misinformation about fentanyl for several years," said Leo Beletsky, a professor of law and health sciences at Northeastern University. "That same situation is being repeated now with animals."

Before he got Myla, Gibson said, he had been wanting a dog for a few months. He said hed given his prior pet  a pit bull named Baxter  to his mother after shed been diagnosed with cancer. She fell in love with Baxter, so Gibson didnt want to take him back. Instead, he worked on cleaning up his own life.

By that point, hed been struggling with addiction for a few years. What started as some partying as a teen got out of hand, and by his mid-20s Gibson was addicted to opioids. About nine months ago, he said, he decided to sign up for a methadone program so he could take daily doses of a medication that would help control the urge to get high.

Ive been trying to clean my life up, he said. Ive had two or three slip-ups but the counselor at the methadone clinic says Im doing pretty good.

He also started welding school, earning perfect marks as he worked to refocus his life. His girlfriend started taking methadone as well, he said, though she occasionally fell back into drug use.

Two months ago, a pit bull owned by one of Gibson's friends had puppies.

"But there was something wrong with the mom, I was helping my friends take care of them," he said. "And I fell in love with Myla."

He bought the dog for $200 and took her back to visit her siblings every day when he went to welding school, then picked her up on the way home.

"I've never had kids, but I had her," he said. "She was happy and healthy."

On Wednesday morning, the couple decided to stop at Whole Foods for breakfast burritos and puppy food, Gibson said. Afterward, they realized they didnt have a dog bowl so they went to Walmart. They were eating in the store parking lot when Gibson said he tossed part of his burrito out of the car.

Initially, Irvine police said the arrests started as a consensual encounter, though Gibson later disputed that. He said the officers accused him of littering, arrested him and wanted to search the car.

After police discovered the fentanyl, Gibson said, the officers briefly left the dog in the car alone before deciding to let the animal sit outside with him and his girlfriend, 27-year-old Katherine Menke. Some of the officers petted the pup, who was still playful during the 45 or more minutes they waited, Gibson said.

It was only once they all got to the police station that the dog began to seem lethargic. By that point, Gibson had already been escorted to another room so he didnt see what happened next.

Department spokesman Kyle Oldoerp told The Times on Saturday that Menke said, "Oh, I think my dog is overdosing," which prompted police to act.

She knew the symptoms because it was the second time the dog had overdosed, he said.

It was unclear when the puppy would have ingested the drugs.

"Whatever happened to her happened 2 hours into custody, Gibson wrote on the departments Facebook page. The cops found drugs, handled them, then let the puppy chew on their fingers. This and only this is why Katherine said what she said."

The department pushed back on Gibson's and Menke's accounts.

Theyre going to dispute anything that happened that day," Davies told The Times. "So were not going to comment on an active criminal investigation."

Though Gibson and Menke did not deny that there was fentanyl in the car, Gibson said that it was not his and that he has been continuing to take part in the methadone program instead of using street drugs. Menke told The Times that she had relapsed but has since returned to the methadone program.

After spending a few hours at the station, Gibson said, he and his girlfriend were allowed to leave without any charges  but they couldnt take their dog. Instead, the department held on to the animal pending a hearing.

When the couple showed up for the hearing on Monday, they learned that a preliminary urine test didnt find any drugs in the dogs system. According to Gibson, the animal control officer had qualms about the results because they could not recover as much urine from the puppy as they would normally use for a test.

Though she confirmed Gibsons account about the initial test results, Davies said it was too soon to draw any conclusions because there were more results pending.

The bottom line is that the lab tests we sent off have not returned, so Im just going to leave it at that, she said, adding that the test authorities used "doesnt specifically test for fentanyl."

To Chelsea Shover, an epidemiologist and health services researcher at UCLA, that raised additional questions.

"It is baffling that if someone suspected a fentanyl overdose, they wouldn't do a urine screen for fentanyl," she said. "Based on that description of lethargy starting more than 40 [minutes] after exposure, it doesn't sound like a fentanyl overdose to me. The symptoms of a fentanyl overdose typically start within minutes of exposure."

In light of the preliminary test results, Gibson and Menke said they were surprised that Mondays hearing found the seizure was justified, which meant theyd have to repay the city for the cost of caring for the dog.

On Wednesday Gibson told The Times that after two days of back-and-forth with the city he found out he owed $2,586.33. If he doesn't pay by Sept. 20, the dog will be "deemed abandoned" and "become property of the city," according to paperwork Gibson received.

"Myla made our days so much better and made us want to do better for ourselves," Menke said. "We really didn't have anyone but each other. That dog made it feel like we were actually a family."

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The Justice Department on Thursday asked the Supreme Court for a stay against an appeals courts order limiting the Biden administrations communication with social media companies over free speech concerns until the high court decides whether to hear the case.

This application concerns an unprecedented injunction installing the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana as the superintendent of the Executive Branchs communications with and about social-media platforms  including senior White House officials speech addressing some of the most salient public issues of the day, U.S. Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar wrote in a new court filing.

Later Thursday, Justice Samuel Alito, who handles emergency requests from the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, issued a brief pause of the injunction  until Sept. 22  so that opposing counsel can respond to the governments request. The order is not an indication of how Alito might vote if the Supreme Court ultimately takes up the case.

The request follows the appeal courts determination that the Biden administration likely violated the First Amendment by pressuring social media companies to moderate specific content, ruling that federal agencies cannot coerce social media platforms to take down posts the government doesnt like.

Agencies including the White House, FBI and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were found by the appeals court to have crossed the line into coercion, while the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and State Department did not.

The DOJ argued Thursday that the appeals court imposed unprecedented limits on the federal agencies ability to address matters of public concern, prevent threats to national security and relay information, calling the courts findings startling.

If allowed to take effect, the injunction would impose grave and irreparable harms on the government and the public, Prelogar wrote.

The case was brought by two Republican attorneys general in a challenge to the Biden administrations efforts to curb false information online. They called the efforts a campaign of censorship and said federal officials coordinated and colluded with social-media platforms to limit the reach of conservative-leaning content.

In July, a Louisiana-based federal judge sided with the attorneys general and barred Biden administration officials from contacting social media companies relating to any manner the removal, deletion, suppression, or reduction of content containing protected free speech posted on social-media platforms. The appeals courts decision sharply narrowed the federal judges ruling.

The Justice Departments request signals that the agency intends to file an appeal with the Supreme Court, setting up a legal battle with resounding implications for online speech.

Updated 2:57 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Calling Haitis construction of a canal on a river the two nations share a provocation, the president of the Dominican Republic said Thursday he is making good on threats to close the entire border.

As of 6 a.m. Friday, all land, sea and air traffic between the two countries, which share the island of Hispaniola, will be closed, Dominican President Luis Abinader announced Thursday. The shutdown means that at least three daily flights between the two countries will cease, and thousands of Haitian traders who rely on commerce at markets along the border will see their business come to a sudden halt.

The latest conflict between the two neighbors erupted earlier this week when Abinader issued an ultimatum to Haiti: Stop the construction of a canal along the Massacre River in Haitis northeast, or risk the border closure.

Hoping to defuse the crisis, Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry dispatched a team of technicians and mid-level diplomats to Santo Domingo on Wednesday. But the delegation returned home Thursday after failing to convince Abinader, who is campaigning for reelection, to back off of his threat.

The Army, the Navy and the Air Force will be prepared to comply with this provision, said Abinader, flanked by members of his military.

The entire border, he added, will remain closed as long as necessary for this action, this provocation to be eliminated.

Late Thursday, the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation issued a notice that all flights to and from the Dominican Republic and the Republic of Haiti are suspended due to the border closure.

In a statement, the Haitian government said it has taken note of the Dominican Republics decision and remains open to dialogue that was underway and on a good track... when the unilateral announcement of the Dominican president to close its borders was done.

Haiti, the statement said, has a sovereign right to decide on the exploitation of its natural resources, and has, like the Dominican Republic, with which it shares the Massacre River, the full right to use the water in accordance with a 1929 treaty between the two countries.

The government of the Republic of Haiti will take all necessary measures to protect the interests of the Haitian people, the statement said, calling for the protection of lives and property, on both sides of the border, and respect for international conventions governing the matter.

The dispute has raised concerns among U.S. officials, who are closely monitoring the situation. They are concerned not only about the economic effects on the two countries, but how the shutdown might further aggravate the hunger crisis in Haiti, where nearly half of the population doesnt have enough to eat.

The timing of the shutdown is not lost on Haitian and Dominican observers. Fridays are traditionally the biggest commerce days for the two nations. Haitians can cross into the Dominican Republic without passports, from Ouanaminthe on the Haitian side and across the bridge over the Massacre River to visit the expansive binational market in Dajabon on the Dominican side. There, traders pack wheelbarrows with food and other supplies to resell in Haiti while others carry second-hand clothing to sell in the Dominican Republic.

The Massacre River, a key source of water for agriculture for both countries, has been in dispute for years. Haitians argue that they have just as much right to it as the Dominican Republic, which they accuse of unilaterally building canals in the past to benefit Dominican farmers.

Our position is clear: the canal or death, Jean Brevil Weston, coordinator of the Maribaroux Plain Farmers Movement in Northeast Haiti, told the Haitian newspaper Le Nouvelliste. We are ready to be buried in the canal.

Weston said the purpose of building the canal is to provide access to water for rice farmers on the Haitian plain.

The current conflict is complicated by the fact that the digging is not an initiative of the current Haitian government. Its said to be a private venture involving farmers backed by powerful Haitian politicians, whom Abinader has promised to name and ban from his country.

Abinaders government claims the digging on the Haitian side is in violation of the 1929 treaty governing the use of waters between the two neighbors and a 2021 agreement about the Massacre River that says neither country would act unilaterally.

Late Thursday, Abinaders office announced that nine Haitian citizens, whom he called provocateurs, will be prohibited from entering the Dominican Republic in connection to the water conflict: Wanique Pierre, former senator of the Northeast department; Ardouin Zephirin, former minister of the interior and territorial communities; Jacques Sauveur Jean, a former senator; Jeantel Joseph, a director in the Ministry of the Environment; Luckner Desir, a journalist and former candidate for the presidency; Nader Joaceus, former minister of public works, transportation and communications; Jean Baptiste Bien-Aime, a former senator; Wideline Pierre, former departmental director of the Ministry of the Environment, and Caniiel Samson, whom the Dominicans say is sponsor of the canals construction.

Haiti didnt address the visa bans in it statement but appeared to be standing its ground. The government, while asking the population to remain calm, said it will take all measures so that the irrigation of the plain, which is part of the city of Ouanaminthe, is carried out within standards, under the supervision in particular of the ministries of agriculture, natural resources and rural development and environment.

The dispute is the latest turn in a tense relationship between two neighbors whose histories were once intertwined but today are fraught with conflict.

Though the Dominican Republic is notorious for its expulsions of Haitians from its territory, it relies on them for construction, agriculture and other menial jobs. It also relies on the Haitian market for its products, selling about $1 billion in exports to Haiti last year, compared to just $11 million in imports.

Its going to cause a lot of stress and have a big impact on what is already a humanitarian disaster in Haiti, said Jean-Max Bellerive, a former prime minister of Haiti who used his tenure in office to cool tensions with Santo Domingo.

But the Dominican Republic stands to be the bigger loser, some Haiti observers say, noting that while Haitians will certainly feel the pain, they also will make do. Many Dominican businesses, on the other hand, will be hit hard because they depend so much on sales to Haiti.

At least 60% of the food, cement, and iron come from the Dominican Republic, even if its not always Dominican products because they have licenses for a lot of American products, said Bellerive.

Bellerive said while Haiti has a legal right to the water, the building of the canal by private businesses is a needless complication. The Haitian government, he said, should have met with the builders and taken over the canals completion ahead of attempting to meet with Dominican authorities. That would have put the government in a better position to discuss the dispute with Dominican authorities.

Haitians point out that the Dominican authorities have themselves built 11 different projects on their side of the river, including two aqueducts in Castellar-Loma de Cabrera and Dajabon, two dams in Cabeza de Caballo and Los Miches and five irrigation canals in Juan Calvo, La Aduana, Los Veteranos, El Coco and Don Pedro.

The dispute has become a political flashpoint for Abinader, who has used the rising gang violence in Haiti and the irregular migration of Haitians across the border to curry voter support in his country. In addition to expelling tens of thousands of Haitians from the Dominican Republic since coming into office, Abinader is currently building a 118-mile wall along the border.

We will continue with the talks with the Haitian government, he said. But as you know, the Haitian government itself admitted that it has problems controlling its territory.

While those problems may be uncontrollable over there, they will not be uncontrollable for the government of the Dominican Republic, he said. Therefore, we are going to continue with the plan we have.
Shoppers stand with bags of merchandise they bought in Dajabon, Dominican Republic, before crossing the border to Haiti, Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. The president of the Dominican Republic announced Thursday that he would close all borders with neighboring Haiti starting Friday in response to the construction of a supposed canal on Haitian soil that targets waters from the Massacre River, which runs along the border shared by both countries. (AP Photo/Ricardo Hernandez)

DAJABON, Dominican Republic (AP)  The Dominican Republic's president announced Thursday he would close all borders with neighboring Haiti starting Friday in a dispute over a canal on the Haitian side that would use water from a river along their frontier.

President Luis Abinader said air, sea and land borders would close at 6 a.m. local time Friday and would remain shuttered until necessary," signaling that last-minute talks between the countries had failed to head off the closure. It is a rare move for the Dominican Republic, and could hit economies in both countries, though it will be most acutely felt in Haiti.

The closure is a response to the excavation of a canal by a farming group on the Haitian side that targets waters from the Massacre River, which runs along the border shared by the two countries on the island of Hispaniola.

The International Crisis Group said work on the canal had been suspended since the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise, and that it resumed based on inaction by the Haitian government, which has failed to respond to the problems created by the drought in the agricultural area of the Maribaroux plain.

The organization has seen no evidence that suggests there are any major politicians or powerful businesspeople behind it, as the Dominican government has claimed, according to Latin American and Caribbean consultant Diego Da Rin.

Abinader in recent days suspended issuing visas to Haitians and closed the border near the northern town of Dajabon, paralyzing a key economic lifeline for Haitians who buy and sell goods there several times a week. Those who live in Haiti but work in the Dominican Republic also cross the border daily.

They are suffering a lot here in Dajabon, and in Haiti, too, because there are a lot of goods that are spoiling, said Haitian businessman Pichelo Petijon. There are millions of dollars in losses.

Abinader accused Haiti of trying to divert water from the Massacre River, and said it would affect Dominican farmers and the environment. The river is named after a bloody clash between French and Spanish colonizers in the 1700s, and it also was the site of a mass killing of Haitians by the Dominican army in 1937.

On Wednesday, Haitis Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was meeting with Dominican officials in the Dominican Republic to talk about the situation. The Dominican government said Thursday that the meeting had stretched into its second day but provided no details. The meeting was continuing when Abinader announced he would close all borders starting Friday.

Meanwhile, Jean Brevil Weston, leader of a farmers group near the border, was quoted by Haiti radio station Magik9 as saying that he will not stop working on the canal.

Its the canal or death, he was quoted as saying. We are ready to be buried by the canal.

Haiti's government issued a statement after Abinader's announcement saying it would always favor dialogue, noting it was underway and on a good track" when the president took unilateral action.

The government added that it would do what is needed to ensure the irrigation of the Maribaroux plain.

The Republic of Haiti can sovereignly decide on the exploitation of its natural resources, it said. The government ... will take all necessary measures to protect the interests of the Haitian people.

Claude Joseph, Haitis former prime minister and an aspiring presidential candidate, said the excavation does not violate any agreements or treaties between the two countries, and urged workers to keep working on the project. Joseph previously clashed with Abinader over an unrelated issue, prompting the Dominican president to ban him from his country.

Abinader on Thursday also announced bans for nine other Haitians, the majority former government officials and one person he claimed was responsible for backing the canal project.

A line already was forming Thursday at the Dominican border town of Dajabon, with hundreds of people seeking to cross into Haiti for various reasons, many with heavy bags balanced on their heads or suitcases in hand. Dominican authorities were opening the gate only three times a day, and only for crossings into Haiti.

Among those waiting to cross was Haitian vendor Dieuvelaie Bernard, 27, who sold clothes in the Dominican Republic and said she didnt understand why the border in Dajabon was closed.

Why is this happening, if everyone comes here to work? she said.

Bernard stressed that construction of the canal was important: Theres only rice, nothing else.

Also in line was a 47-year-old Haitian man who gave his name only as Egnel, who said he had a job at a banana farm in the Dominican Republic. He said he needed to return to Haiti to take one of his daughters there to the hospital, and that he was willing to take the risk of not being able to return to his job.

My objective is to take care of my daughter, he said.

After Abinader became president in August 2020, he has sought to stop the flow of Haitian migrants into the Dominican Republic in recent years and has expelled tens of thousands of Haitians and those of Haitian descen t. His administration also has started work on a 118-mile (190-kilometer) wall along the Haitian border.

___

Coto reported from San Juan, Puerto Rico.
A rendering of the HAV 832 service operation vessel Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding in Sturgeon Bay will begin building Sept. 20. The 288-foot-long vessel is planned to go into service in 2026 to transport technicians to service a new Dominion Energy wind farm off the coast of Virginia.

STURGEON BAY - Construction of a new ship that will help in the maintenance of a major offshore wind farm begins Wednesday morning at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding.

The Sturgeon Bay shipyard is building the HAV 832, a 288-foot-long service operation vessel (SOV), for CREST Wind, a joint venture between maritime industry companies Crowley and ESVAGT. SOVs are purpose-built ships used to transport technicians to service and sustain operation of wind turbines at sea.

Crowley will have an onsite construction management group on hand during the build. HAV Design AS, a Norway-based SOV design firm, designed the vessel.

The new ship is planned to go into service in 2026, when it will serve the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project, a 2,135-acre wind farm being built by Dominion Energy about 27 miles off the coast of Virginia, under a long-term charter to Siemens Gamesa, a German-Spanish wind engineering company.

Crowley is a U.S. maritime, energy and logistics solution company serving the offshore wind market. ESVAGT is a Denmark-based provider of SOV service in Europe.

We are proud to be associated with important green projects like this, Marco Galbiati, CEO of Fincantieri Marine Group, said in a news release when the contract for the SOV was signed in January. The SOV market is one of the most interesting and important markets for our company.

Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding also is currently building liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunker barges, including for Crowley, and supporting the Fincantieri Marinette Marine shipyard in its construction of the U.S. Navys new Constellation-class frigates.

One of the worlds largest and most diversified maritime companies, Fincantieri operates 18 shipyards on four continents. It operates in the U.S. through its subsidiary Fincantieri Marine Group, with shipyards Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding, Fincantieri Marinette Marine and Fincantieri ACE Marine in Green Bay serving commercial and government customers.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Sturgeon Bay shipyard to begin building vessel for offshore wind farm
Terrifying, enraging, and overwhelming is how Bethany Alhaidari described the prospect of sending her 8-year-old back to Saudi Arabia after the mother-daughter duo fled the kingdom four years ago.

The 36-year-old American activist from Washington state made headlines back in 2019 when she escaped the kingdom with her daughter Zaina after going through a contentious divorce, losing a grueling custody battle, and being placed under a travel ban for violating the visitation rights of her ex-husband.

Left with few options under the kingdoms custody laws, Alhaidari said she hatched a plan which she viewed as her only shot of getting out with Zaina: pretending to get back together with her allegedly abusive ex-husband until he felt comfortable enough to let her travel with their child. According to Alhaidari, the plan worked, and she was able to leave the kingdom with her daughter in December 2019, under the guise of visiting her parents in Washington statewhere she immediately filed for emergency jurisdiction.

But her risky getaway was far from the end of the nightmare ordeal. Another custody battle for Zaina is currently playing out on U.S. soiland it culminates in a hearing on Oct. 24 that could end in a court ruling that the child must be sent back to Saudi Arabia, as first reported by The Guardian.

It is so egregious to me. And its so ridiculous that it can actually get to this point, and I dont think people realize over the years, the mental toll, and the like, emotional toll that this has taken, Alhaidari told The Daily Beast in an interview this week. This has been my reality for several years now its almost comical.

Significant Risk

The activist, who first moved to Saudi Arabia in 2012 to pursue academic research before meeting her ex-husband there, said she knew the divorce and ensuing custody battle in the kingdom would be an uphill battle as soon as her marriage fell apart. That said, I didnt think it would be that bad, because of how much evidence was on record of my ex-husband's issues.

In U.S. court filings reviewed by The Daily Beast, Alhaidari had alleged that her ex-husband, a Saudi national, began exhibiting signs of emotional instability, emotional abuse, and substance abuse during her pregnancy with Zaina, which ultimately escalated into rampages that included, screaming insults, breaking objects, and threatening to kill Bethany in front of her daughter. (Bethany said she had sent video footage capturing some of those rampages to a Saudi judge during their custody trial, which she claims were dismissed altogether.)

Bethany Alhaidari and her daughter Zaina pose for a picture while attending a concert. Handout

I still remember being super upset with the judge at the end of that case, because in the beginning, I didnt have legal representation. So it was just me. And I just remember going through this terrible, terribly unjust [saga] egregiously discriminatory on the basis of gender, she told The Daily Beast. The court proceedings in Saudi had no rhyme or reason. They didn't even follow their own legal procedures. So I had filed an appeal in Saudi Arabia, and it was completely derailed, and I was forced to settle.

For Alhaidari, its not just the risk of having to separate from her daughter thats at stake in the Oct. 24 court hearing. Last month, Human Rights Watch submitted an amicus brief in the case that warned of the potential threat to the activist should she have to accompany Zaina to Saudi Arabia if the court rules against her.

Discrimination in the context of child custody remains deeply entrenched in Saudi Arabia. As a result, Bethany is likely to face discriminatory judgments as well as a significant risk of prosecution for her peaceful advocacy and allegations of blasphemy, apostasy, and moral crimes, the briefing states, referring to Alhaidaris advocacy work and allegations her ex-husband made against her during their legal battles in the kingdom. This will leave Bethany vulnerable to ill treatment in detention, an unfair trial, a lengthy prison sentence, and the risk of corporal punishment and the death penalty, all of which will affect her child.

Alhaidari has long been critical of the Saudi regime and its treatment of women in the kingdom, and has continued her activism in the U.S. as a senior fellow at the Human Rights Foundation, among other advocacy groups. Pursuing that kind of work in the kingdom was a really hard time, she said. I watched my friends and colleagues as I was doing human rights research be detained, tortured, and go to jail.

Saudi Sisters Escape to Georgia and Plead for Asylum on Twitter

In the lead-up to the court hearing next month, Alhaidari said she was trying to protect her daughter from the emotional and mental toll of the custody battle, adding that friends of Zaina from school have been talking about the case in front of the 8-year-old.

Its hard for her because she is old enough to understand things, right? Shes trying to express on multiple occasions that she doesnt want to go to Saudi, and shes refused to talk to her dad for several months now. And its really hard. Its really hard for her, she said. Ive kind of been a single parent since she was born. You know, she and I have lived on our own since she was 2 years old, after we separated.

She has the freedom to be what she wants to be right now, Alhaidari added. And thats really important to me.

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.
Drew Barrymores alleged stalker was arrested after forcibly entering a New York Fashion Week dressing room to see Emma Watson.

In August, Washington DC native Chad Michael Busto was detained by police after he attempted to rush a stage on which Barrymore was speaking with the actor and singer Renee Rapp.

Footage from the New York panel event featured Busto shouting from the audience, and telling the Charlies Angels star: You know who I am. I need to see you at some point while youre in New York.

On Friday (8 September), Busto was arrested again after he entered a private dressing space at a New York Fashion Week event, demanding to speak to the Harry Potter actor.

Court documents obtained by TMZ state that the man screamed at models and makeup artists inside the Brooklyn Navy Yard dressing room, telling them: "I want to marry Emma Watson. Let me speak to Emma Watson. Let me take a photo with Emma Watson."

It is unknown whether Watson was present in the dressing room or at the fashion show.

After management at the venue called the police, Busto was arrested and later charged with two counts of disorderly conduct and two counts of trespassing.

The Independent has reached out to a representative of Emma Watson for comment.

Emma Watson (Getty Images)

When Busto tried to approach Barrymore on stage in August, it followed reports of him travelling around the local area and telling residents that he was looking for the actor and chat show hosts home.

He was suspected of stalking Ms Barrymore due to previous incidents involving the actor, the police spokesperson shared in a statement. After a brief detainment for questioning by responding officers, Busto was released, and appeared to have left the area.

Following the near-encounter on stage, the patrol officers notified the polices detective division, who conducted a follow-up investigation that found that Bustos actions warranted a stalking charge.

The statement continued: During the afternoon of August 24th, East Hampton Town Police located the suspect, took him into custody and subsequently turned him over to Southampton Town Police detectives for arrest processing. Busto was charged with Stalking in the 4th degree, a class B misdemeanour.

At the time of the stage incident, The Sex Lives of College Girls star Renee Rapp helped to escort Barrymore off the stage and was praised by fans for her protective actions.

When speaking to The Independent about the moment, Rapp, 23, explained it as simply an instinct to shield a friend from potential harm.

In my brain, someone was about to harm my friend, so Im not just going to f***ing sit there, she said. Are you kidding? You do not come for my friends. That man is lucky nobody laid him out.
Miami real estate broker George Pino pleaded not guilty this week to three counts of misdemeanor careless boating in connection to a deadly vessel crash last year in south Biscayne Bay.

The tragedy killed 17-year-old Luciana Fernandez and permanently disabled another teen, Katerina Puig.

Both girls families criticized the outcome of the year-long investigation into the crash and the conclusion of a state agency that alcohol played no role even though more than 60 empty booze containers were found on Pinos vessel the day after the tragedy.

Empty beer and other alcoholic beverage bottles and cans are lined up behind the cockpit of George Pinos 29-foot Robalo boat on Sept. 5, 2022.

Pino, through his attorney Howard Srebnick, pleaded not guilty Monday in Miami-Dade County Circuit Court. Srebnick did not respond to a request for comment on his clients plea.

Ivan Cabrera, an attorney for Katerina Puigs parents, said the not-guilty plea delays the criminal proceedings and continues to add insult to injury for the Puig family.

The frustration which the Puig family are experiencing is only heightened by the fact that George Pino refuses to accept any responsibility for the death of Lucy Fernandez and the debilitating injuries sustained by Katerina, which have ravaged her life permanently, Cabrera said in a text to the Miami Herald. Worst of all, entering a plea of not guilty after receiving the unjustified privilege of facing charges which amount to a slap on the wrist, where any other citizen would have been charged with DUI manslaughter carrying a mandatory prison sentence, is patently offensive.

Pino is scheduled to make his first appearance in front of a judge to answer the charges on Tuesday, Sept. 19, at 11:45 a.m.

Empty beer and other alcoholic beverage containers fill a trash can on the boat belonging to George Pino, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Luciana Fernandezs parents, Andres and Melissa Fernandez, declined to comment about Pinos plea.

The Puigs filed a lawsuit in March contending that Pino and his wife, Cecila, supplied the teens on their boat with alcohol the day of the crash, Sept. 4, 2022, Labor Day weekend last year. The Pinos, in court filings, have denied that accusation.

The Miami Herald reported in August that an investigators body camera footage seemingly contradicts what police say was the reason Pino, 52, declined to voluntarily submit a blood sample to test for alcohol.

Katerina Puig, jugadora del ano de Dade Soccer Big School, de Lourdes Academy, es fotografiada en A.D. Barnes Park en Miami, Florida, el martes 8 de marzo de 2022.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission investigator wrote that Pino refused to let his blood be drawn the night of the crash because his attorney wasnt present. But in the interaction between the officer and Pino caught on the officers body camera, Pino had admitted to drinking.

His immediate response to being asked to submit blood: No. I had two beers.

The Fish and Wildlife agency, however, has maintained that because Pino did not show obvious signs of impairment in the immediate hours after the crash, officers had no right to compel him to submit blood or take a breath test for drinking.

Miami-Dade State Attorneys Office prosecutors used the police report to charge him with the misdemeanors  as recommended by Fish and Wildlife  instead of seeking stronger charges.

Following the end of state agencys investigation and the announcement of charges, the Puig and Fernandez families issued statements condemning the investigation, the resulting misdemeanors and Pinos statement to investigators that another boat caused him to lose control of his vessel and slam into the fixed channel marker in Cutter Bank.

Luciana Fernandez

In the Fish and Wildlife commissions report, investigators say they found no witnesses or data from the boats GPS to corroborate Pinos story.

Pino was driving his boat back to his part-time home in the gated Key Largo community of Ocean Reef Club when the boat crashed. He and his wife were celebrating their daughters 18th birthday and partying with friends on Elliott Key in Biscayne Bay.

On the 29-foot, twin-engine Robalo center console were George and Cecilia Pino, their daughter and 11 of her friends, including Luciana Fernandez and Katerina Puig. Everyone was thrown into the water when the boat struck the channel marker.

View of channel Marker 15 in the Intracoastal, site of a deadly boat crash on Sept. 4.

Nearby boaters pulled people from the water. Fire-rescue and police crews took the injured to the hospital.

Luciana Fernandez was taken to Kendall Regional Medical Center, where she died the next day. Paramedics took Katerina Puig to Nicklaus Childrens Hospital near South Miami. Her familys attorneys said she will require a lifetime of intense medical care.

All of the girls either attended either Our Lady of Lourdes Academy in Southwest Miami-Dade, Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart in Coconut Grove or Westminster Christian School in Palmetto Bay.
Re. Peter Kanes letter Impact of airline expansion (Castanet, Sept. 11)

I guess Peter Kane is not a person who travels, or if he does, he can afford to pay the high rates the Canadian duopoly of WestJet and Air Canada are free to charge.

Canada is a large country and for millions of Canadians, families are spread out in distant places. Often it is not realistic to drive to see them. Luckily, we have Flair Airlines and other small airlines who actually provide competition to the big two at a reasonable cost.

Is it better for the environment that we fly in a plane with 200 other people than drive a car for thousands of kilometres? We need competition to keep fares at a level that is affordable to the ordinary person.

If we don't allow competition, then we end up with a situation like our telecom market, where we pay the highest rates in the world. If we were allowed to have competition from overseas providers we would see our rates plummet. But the government has determined it is not desirable to have competition and have gave Rogers, Bell and Telus free rein to charge what they want.

As part of the deal (that allowed Rogers) to buy Shaw, Freedom Mobile was sold to Quebecor with stipulations about rates to be charged to customers. Only months after that deal was struck, Rogers reneged on its promises and are seeking to increase the wholesale rates they charge to Quebecor. Rogers would love to see Freedom Mobile fail because the last thing it wants is any low-cost competition.

The Canadian Commissioner of Competition dared to question whether the Rogers takeover of Shaw was in the public interest, and might, instead, result in a monopoly-type situation. The resulting court case went to the Competition Tribunal, which awarded costs of $13 million to Rogers. Surely, if any company is less deserving of $13 million of taxpayers money, it is Rogers.

Now we have the prospect of Bell merging with Telus, which can only result in yet higher charges for Canadians. In any other country the government would step in to protect customers from this unhealthy position where two companies are dividing up the market between them.

Unfortunately Canadas industry minister, the aptly-named Mr (Francois-Philippe) Champagne, has shown he prefers to side with big companies rather than the people who actually elected him to protect their interests.

In fact, what we are seeing in Canada is a steady transfer of wealth from low- and middle-income earners to large corporations who lobby the government. I walked through Orchard Park Shopping Centre the other day and there was an EV parked in one of the aisles. It was a fairly modest car, not big at all, and yet the price tag was $71,000. Of course you don't pay that, you pay $80,000 by the time taxes, pre-delivery inspection and other hidden fees are added. Who can afford that? You can buy a reliable car with an internal combustion engine for $10,000, but our government is doing its best to throw obstacles in the way of such vehicles, particularly forcing up the price of gas.

Despite the obvious downsides of EVs and their production, the government is handing out $27 billion of taxpayers money to two very wealthy companies that need no help from us. So the plan, apparently, is to destroy jobs in Western Canada whilst paying businesses to create a smaller number in Ontario. It makes perfect sense.

If you turn the clock back 100 years, most people were born, grew up and then died in their own town or city. That resulted in servitude to local landowners or businesses.

The invention of the motor car, and the subsequent rise in its affordability freed people from servitude and enabled them to find better jobs further afield, or to travel to other cities for work. Wages increased exponentially. Now governments (not just in Canada) want to turn the clock back to feudal times and force us to live where they want us to live, not where we want to live.

The pretext for this is "saving the planet". With such a worthy aim, who could possibly argue with it?

Yet, after trillions of dollars spent on this cause we have not succeeded in achieving any of the targets set. The only target which might be achieved is the destruction of Canada's oil and gas businesses. Instead, we can rely on importing oil from Saudi Arabia. I'm sure it will play nice and give us a break on its oil price, once we have decimated our own industry.

It's a pretty grim future for younger generations. Artificial intelligence will take all their jobs, they won't be able to afford houses and won't be able to afford a car.

Peter Emery, Kelowna
Drone debris that falls on Romanian territory is accidental and does not constitute a threat to the NATO alliance, NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana said during a meeting with Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean in Chisinau on Sep. 14.

The events on the border with Romania "should be classified as incidents, not as targeted attacks. We do not have a deliberate attack on a NATO ally, Geoana said.

Read also: Ukraines border agency says kamikaze drones hit Romania during Russian attack, Bucharest shrugs off reports

Incidents can happen, have happened in the past, and may happen in the future. My message is the same from Chisinau, Bucharest, Brussels, and Washington: trust NATO! We are doing our duty.

Shaheds in Romania: What is Known

This is not the first time Russian drone debris has been discovered in Romania. More wreckage was discovered on Sep. 4, 2.5 kilometers southeast of the Romanian settlement of Plauru, after Russia carried out a massive aerial attack on southern Ukraine.

Read also: Residents of Romanias border zone with Ukraine to receive mobile air raid alert notifications

Ukrainian border guards recorded two detonations of Shahed kamikaze drones on Romanian territory during the Russian attack on Ukraine in the early hours of Sept. 4. Spokesman for Ukraines State Border Guard Service Andriy Demchenko said Ukraine had informed Romania about the drone impacts on its territory.

The Ukrainian Air Force reported that 23 out of 32 Shaheds were shot down during the raid, during which Russia targeted the infrastructure of Izmail District of Odesa Oblast, which borders Romania.

At the time, the Romanian Defense Ministry categorically denied reports about the falling debris. According to the ministry, Russias attack never created a direct military threat to the national territory or territorial waters of Romania.

Then, on Sept. 6, Romanian Defense Minister Angel Tilvar subsequently acknowledged for the first time that parts of a Russian drone used to attack Ukraine had indeed fallen on his countrys territory.

As a result, Bucharest initiated an investigation and informed NATO command about the incident. Romanias President Klaus Iohannis referred to the drone debris as a serious violation of [Romanias] sovereignty.

Read also: Romania summons Russian envoy over drone debris

NATO member countries expressed strong solidarity with Romania in a statement published by Romanias ambassador to NATO, Dan Neculescu. However, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg stated on Sept. 7 that the alliance did not see any indication that there had been a deliberate Russian attack on Romania.

Fragments of a UAV have been discovered in Romania following Russias nighttime attack on Odesa Oblast on Sep. 13, the Romanian Ministry of Defense reported.

Fragments of another drone similar to those used by the Russian military were found in Romania on Sept. 9.

The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Charge d'Affaires of the Russian Federation after more fragments of a drone similar to those used by the Russian army were found on Romanian territory, local outlet Agerpres reported on Sept. 10.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Dunkin has expanded its pumpkin spice lineup with the help of rising rap star Ice Spice and actor Ben Affleck .

On Wednesday, the coffee chain rolled out the Ice Spice Munchkins Drink. The drink combines creamy frozen coffee with Pumpkin Munchkins Donut Hole Treats and is topped with whipped cream and caramel drizzle.

Dunkin Donuts Ice Spice

Its the first time a bakery treat has been added to one of Dunkins signature drinks, according to a news release.

To announce Dunkins newest pumpkin spice drink, the two stars appeared in a commercial that showed them brainstorming a name for the new drink.

Wendys to debut first ever pumpkin spice flavored Frosty, new cold brew

We gotta come up with a drink name, but its not easy, right? Nowadays, with social media, the kidsits gotta be authentic. How are people gonna connect you with Dunkin? Affleck said in the commercial.

Im a Dunkin girl, Ice Spice responded. My fans are the Munchkins. Ice Spice Munchkins Drink?

And thus, the Ice Spice Munchkins Drink was born.

Pumpkin spice season has gotten a bit predictable lately, so we sought help from our friends Ben Affleck and Ice Spice to create a new pumpkin obsession that only Dunkin can offer, Jill McVicar Nelson, chief marketing officer at Dunkin, said in a statement.

Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte turns 20

Nelson described the drink as fun, delicious and not your ordinary pumpkin drink.

The commercial was directed by Affleck and Artists Equity, an independent studio co-founded by Affleck, Matt Damon and Gerry Cardinale of RedBird Capital.

Affleck has been a long-time fan of Dunkin and one of the companys newest brand ambassadors.

Pumpkin spice fans can try the new creation at participating Dunkin locations nationwide while supplies last.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
The parent of an Eagle Mountain-Saginaw school district student wont be allowed on campus or at district events after district officials Thursday said he chased a bus, pounded on its hood and eventually boarded it.

In a letter sent to parents after the incident, Prairie Vista Middle School Principal Wat Harden said the parent was yelling and hitting the school bus when it made a stop on its route before he boarded it, frightening students on the bus.

Crisis counselors were made available Thursday to the students who were on the bus, Harden said in the letter.

Police both from the school district and Fort Worth were called to the bus and the parent was given a criminal trespass warning and barred from district property or events in the future.

The incident occurred across the street from Copper Creek Elementary School, another Eagle Mountain-Saginaw school district campus in Fort Worth.

The call to police resulted in emergency vehicles in front of the school, but the incident did not involve or impact any of the elementary school students, Daniel Dodson, the principal of that campus, said in a sent a letter to Cooper Creek students parents.

Were already having a wonderful day of learning, but since this happened in front of our school, I wanted you to be aware of the situation. If you have any questions, please dont hesitate to reach out, Dodson said in the letter.

Harden said in his letter to parents that aggressive behavior toward a school bus or bus driver could result in criminal charges.

The school bus is an extension of the classroom, and this type of action will not be tolerated, Harden wrote in the letter. If you ever have a concern about something happening on a school bus, the correct way to resolve the situation in the best interest of everyone involved is to reach out to an administrator at our school.

He also noted in his letter that the district is investigating what happened on the bus before the parent boarded it, but did not provide any details on whether events on the bus beforehand had anything to do with the parents actions.

A Fort Worth police spokesman told the Star-Telegram in response to a request for information that he was not notified of anything major happening on the call.
Its Thursday, Chicago.

Temps are cooling yet there are so many things to do across Chicagoland. Were looking forward to Riot Fest at Douglass Park this weekend and live music elsewhere in the city this fall.

In food, we have a review for Kyoten Next Door, a decidedly lower-priced omakase restaurant from chef Otto Phan in Logan Square, that still packs a punch with flavor, Tribune critic Nick Kindelsperger writes. Stay tuned for his review of sister restaurant Kyoten on Monday.

Enjoy the weekend, well see you next week.

 Lauryn Azu, deputy senior editor

Kyoten Next Door is more than a sushi sequel, Tribune critic Nick Kindelsperger writes. At the new restaurant from chef Otto Phan, a 15-course meal goes for only $159, and the quality doesnt falter. Read his full review here.

Riot Fest is back this weekend in Douglass Park. Headliners such as the Foo Fighters Friday, Queens of the Stone Age Saturday and The Cure Sunday make it a musical showdown for rockers of every age. Read more here.

What is perhaps Chicagos first Persian fine-dining restaurant opened in Albany Park in July. Read here how a former flight attendants cultural memories and an Italian chefs cuisine finesse brought the project to fruition.

Music critic Britt Julious names the shows shes looking forward to the most this fall, including Victoria Monet at the House of Blues, Raphael Saadiq and Tony! Toni! Tone! at The Chicago Theatre, and Lauryn Hill at United Center. Read on here.

Picking up a Polish sausage to cook at home should be simple. But in Chicago, the sheer number of options almost boggles the mind. Tribune critic Nick Kindelsperger lists his favorites here.

The Changeling, now streaming on Apple TV+, does more than merely depict the sleeplessness and no-exit despair of so much postpartum depression, Tribune critic Michael Phillips writes. Read his review of the dark, fantastic tale here.

October is right around the corner, which means Oktoberfest is almost here. Break out your lederhosen for a meal at a Chicago restaurant near you  check out our list here.

Rainy fall days were made for deep thoughts and museum gallery exploration. Indulge your creative self at 10 of critic Lori Waxmans picks for exhibitions to visit this fall, which you can read here.

September is International Underground Railroad Month. With this three-day itinerary to visit Underground Railroad sites across the state, you can visit the places where freedom seekers took refuge and get to know the stories of how they made new lives for themselves in Illinois communities. Read the guide here.

Paramount Theatres production of Little Shop of Horrors, which opened Friday, isnt so little, Tribune critic Chris Jones writes. Read his review of the show he says is packed with talent, but needs some shaping, here.
When lawyers opposing Floridas 15-week limit on safe, legal abortions arrived at the majestic state Supreme Court building Friday, they knew they faced long odds. This court is stacked with supporters of Gov. Ron DeSantis, and the willingness to trash precedent and ignore the history of Floridas clear protections for medical privacy were almost certainly used as private litmus tests as DeSantis weighed his high-court picks.

And while its normally not a good idea to rely on the questions justices ask at oral arguments to predict how the court might rule, Fridays comments leave us pretty confident that a majority of the court is willing to play along with the prevailing view that  up until about 14 months ago when Roe v. Wade was overturned  nobody really understood Floridas constitutional privacy protections.

Legislators who put the issue on the ballot in 1980? Didnt know what they were doing.

Prior Supreme Court justices who ruled in 1989 that abortion decisions were about as private and personal as a decision could be, and clearly protected in Florida to a far greater degree than they were by federal law  a ruling they echoed in 2003? They were wrong.

Different lawmakers, who put amendments on the ballot in 2006 and 2012 meant to punch holes in the privacy clause to allow abortion restrictions? Wasting their time.

And the voters who went to the polls each time and made their wishes perfectly clear? Those folks moaning about other rights that could be lost, such as the right to say no to a vaccine or parents rights to make educational decisions for their kids? Who cares about them?

Ignorance or pretense

That came through loud and clear in the questions Justice John Couriel repeatedly fired at ACLU lawyer Whitney Leigh White last week about the debate in 1980,k when the privacy clause was placed on the ballot. If medical privacy was meant to be covered by the original amendment, youd expect to see groups like Planned Parenthood and Right to Life debating that in 1980, Couriel said. How do you explain that?

The answer to that question is simple: In 1980, access to safe, legal abortion was clearly protected by federal law as well. There was no need for it to come up. But other deeply personal liberties  including protection for LGBTQ+ Floridians  were not nearly as well protected. Backers of the amendment, leery of tying their language to overtly controversial topics, tried to ward off talk about drug use and homosexuality. But news coverage and floor debate made it clear that most Floridians saw the 1980 amendment as expansive, covering personal decisions as well as access to intimate information.

Couriels ignorance  willful or not  might be forgivable in some situations. After all, he was only two years old when the privacy clause was placed on the ballot. Other DeSantis picks are similarly inexperienced, yet seemed equally smug and misinformed as they questioned White.

Whats inexcusable, however, is their blindness to the misery Floridas 15-week ban is causing right now, including women who have suffered serious health consequences because they couldnt get abortions for pregnancies that were no longer viable, and at least one young teen who was denied an abortion that resulted from a rape.

How does forcing women to continue pregnancies against their will, despite real risks to their health or their status as victims of sexual assault, square with Floridas clear protection for the right to be let alone and free from governmental intrusion into the persons private life? This group of DeSantis picks may not understand history. But they should be able to read plain English.

Canady should recuse himself

One justice, however, clearly understands this issue inside and out. Thats because Charles Canady has been on the front lines in the assault on reproductive freedom for most of his political career  and because hes married to the lawmaker who sponsored Floridas even more onerous ban on abortions after just five weeks of pregnancy.

This is a clear, blatant violation of Floridas long-standing standards that require justices to step out of cases  known as recusing themselves  where they have an obvious conflict of interest. While he served in Congress, Canady was the chief driver behind early attempts to set time limits on abortion; hes even credited with popularizing the deceptive term partial birth abortion and coming up with gruesome scenarios that equated medically necessary procedures with infanticide.

With nearly two decades of experience as an appellate judge following his congressional service, Canady must also know the rules governing recusal. Hes seen U.S. Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh step out of cases involving Johnson and Johnson, because his father once lobbied for the baby-products corporation, and Justice Elena Kagan recuse herself from cases (including, in June, the decision to re-hear the appeal of a Broward County death-row inmate) because she was U.S. solicitor general when previous appeals were being carried out.

Yet Canady sat at the dais on Friday, saying little, but exhibiting the clear intention of participating in deliberations on the 15-week ban. He knows his vote isnt even needed in this case; the five justices DeSantis appointed constitute a resounding majority on the seven-member court.

The only argument anyone is offering in Canadys defense is that none of the attorneys fighting the 15-week ban has asked him to recuse himself. Thats a sorry excuse. With a conflict this glaring, any justice as experienced and canny as Canady should be able to see that hes swinging a wrecking ball at the integrity of Floridas judiciary.

He should step down. And if he doesnt, the state Judicial Qualification Commission should ask him to explain why he didnt.

____

The Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board consists of Opinion Editor Krys Fluker, Editor-in-Chief Julie Anderson and Viewpoints Editor Jay Reddick. Contact us at insight@orlandosentinel.com
Fulton County Dist. Atty. Fani Willis has been targeted by Georgia Republicans under a new law that allows an unelected commission to remove local elected prosecutors from office. (Brynn Anderson / Associated Press)

Georgia is just one of many states in which Republican leaders have tried to throw out district attorneys elected in big cities where Democrats dominate. Florida, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Indiana and other states with Republican governors or Republican-majority legislatures are disenfranchising urban voters by stripping them of their power to elect their own prosecutors and set their own criminal justice agendas. It is not particularly surprising that much of the voting power theyre stealing and many of the elected D.A.s they are targeting  are Black.

But the Georgia effort is particularly enlightening because it is targeting Fani Willis, the Fulton County district attorney who is prosecuting the ex-president and current candidate Donald Trump and 18 others for their alleged roles in attempting to overturn Trumps 2020 reelection defeat. State Sen. Clint Dixon (R-Buford) branded Willis indictments a witch hunt and said he would file a complaint against her with a new commission with authority to remove her when it convenes for the first time next month.

Read more: Editorial: Republicans are weaponizing congressional oversight to thwart Trump prosecution

To his credit, Brian Kemp , the states Republican governor, has declined to support the move against Willis. But the law he signed earlier this year allows the new Prosecuting Attorneys Qualifications Commission  some of whose members Kemp appointed  to question Willis prosecutorial decisions and impose involuntary retirement. Dixon and others dispense with the usual public safety pretext for ousting so-called rogue D.A.s and come very close to admitting that their motive in targeting Willis is political.

Which of course it is, as is virtually every democracy-crushing move by Republican statehouses to throw out elected prosecutors and silence voters who support them. This trend includes Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis recent groundless removal of State Atty. Monique Worrell, elected by voters in a district that includes Orlando, purportedly for not being aggressive enough in prosecutions. (State attorney and district attorney describe identical or similar offices in different states.) It includes the governors similar removal of Andrew Warren, the elected prosecutor from the district that includes Tampa, and DeSantis predecessor stripping power from Aramis Ayala, the elected prosecutor who preceded Worrell.

Read more: Editorial: Republicans' ominous strategy to thwart criminal justice reform  and democracy

It's the same story in Pennsylvania, where the Republican-dominated legislature tried to impeach Philadelphia Dist. Atty. Larry Krasner. And in Missouri, where a bill that would have allowed state officials to throw out St. Louis D.A. was amended to extend that power over all D.A.s, so the anti-urban, anti-Democrat, anti-Black power grab wouldnt look quite so obvious. Its the same story, too, in a dozen other states that recently passed similar laws, ostensibly to protect voters from themselves.

Republicans for a time were leaders in the criminal justice reform movement, drawing on Christian values of redemption and fair play and conservative principles of limited government and economic discipline. Trump never signed on with the conservative Right on Crime effort, whose proponents included Newt Gingrich and other prominent Republicans. As president, though, Trump briefly aligned himself with reforms like more humane sentences when he signed the bipartisan First Step Act, a 2018 law improving federal sentencing practices.

Read more: Editorial: The empire strikes back  against progressive prosecutors

But there was never a second step, because after the murder of George Floyd and the sometimes violent protests that followed, Trump reverted to the tough-on-crime rhetoric that characterized much of his career as a public figure. His political acolytes and underlings fell into line  and shrewdly portrayed themselves as protectors of public safety in the face of progressive prosecutors and woke policies that are meant to correct longstanding flaws in the criminal justice system, such as unnecessarily extreme sentences, racial bias in plea bargaining and bail, and lax prosecution of serious police misconduct.

Local voters who want these reform policies elect D.A.s that promote them. Those that dont, dont. Moves like the new law in Georgia and DeSantis removals in Florida eliminate those choices.

Read more: Editorial: Trump should not have to pay bail

The dangers posed by this anti-democratic movement are manifold. Most obviously, it virtually erases the voting power of a wide swath of voters, chiefly those who are Democrats, urban dwellers or Black. It robs them just as surely as intimidation at polling places once did, and as partisan gerrymandering still does. It quite literally overturns elections. It insidiously succeeds where Trump and his followers fell short following their 2020 defeat. It undermines confidence in American institutions, in elections, in the value of voting. It turns every core function of democracy into a politically partisan battle.

Trump was indicted in part because of his Jan. 2, 2021, phone call to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, demanding that the Georgia official find him enough votes to secure a different outcome. Georgia remains the battleground  one of them, anyway  in this Republican attack on democracy. The attempt to unseat Fani Willis  or Monique Worrell, or Andrew Warren, or Larry Krasner, or numerous others  is merely an alternative way to achieve what rioters in the Capitol were seeking on Jan. 6, 2021.

If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Being hospitalized is a stressful experience, one that becomes even more challenging for patients with dementia, mental illness or frailties that put them at risk for falls or self-injury. But the modern realities of health care make it tough to protect these patients without physically restraining them  a brutal affront to human dignity that has, fortunately, been fading away as an acceptable way to safeguard most

Orlando Health begins offering 24/7 video monitoring for at-risk inpatients

The common alternative  in-person, low-skilled patient sitters  has its challenges as well. This one-on-one care can be undeniably effective, and often eases the loneliness of someone who is hospitalized without friends or family nearby to visit. But its also expensive, even though patient sitters are among the lowest-paid of hospital employees; according to the site Ziprecruiter.com, Central Florida wages for patient sitters hover just above minimum wage.

Orlando Health recently became the latest local hospital system to adopt a third option. Remote, camera-assisted patient sitting allows one observer to keep an eye on multiple patients at once  with the ability to quickly summon help if a patient who is a fall risk attempts to get out of bed, or someone attempts self-harm. As described in a recent story by the Sentinels Caroline Catherman, the system uses two-way video monitors that let remote sitters speak with patients or alert nursing staff that a patient needs immediate assistance.

To some, this kind of monitoring (which is also in use at AdventHealth facilities) might seem invasive or impersonal. But it beats the sometimes devastating consequences. An estimated 700,000 to 1 million patients fall each year in hospitals, federal health statistics show, with about one-third of those resulting in injuries and as many as 11,000 deaths. Add to tha reduced risks of self-harm, and an increased ability to see when a patients condition is rapidly worsening, and its clear that  when handled properly  technology can help keep patients safe and costs down.

As AdventHealth officials reported in a January news release, its also helping with another critical health issue  turnover and fatigue among health-care professionals including nursing staff. A pilot virtual-nursing program at three Volusia County hospitals showed a dramatic, and encouraging, reduction in turnover rates in its first five months , Advent officials said.

Thats why we hope local health officials keep pushing to expand the use of technical solutions to human problems  so long as they remain focused on patient care, and dont use it as a way to simply cut costs.

One obvious use of this technology is its potential to keep patients out of expensive intensive-care units, or out of the hospital altogether. Earlier this year, Catherman reported on another OrlandoHealth initiative that does just that. Using video monitoring plus visits from nursing staff, some patients can receive hospital-level care in their own homes.

As described by Dr. Siddharaj Shah, senior medical director for Orlando Healths hospital care at home program, that can include patients on IV medications for infections or those at risk of exacerbations of conditions such as COPD or heart failure. The remote observers for that program are licensed nurses, who can also monitor heart rate, blood sugar and other indicators that might signal a need to dispatch in-person help.

Stay aware of new ways to cut health-care costs | Commentary

This technology is still in its early stages, and patient advocacy groups raise valid concerns  including a fear that the quality of remote care wont be sufficiently monitored. There are definite variations in the abilities of various systems, with some vendors promising systems that can monitor 24 or more patients per sitter  a number that seems irresponsibly high. Laudably, OrlandoHealth officials plan to keep the option of in-person patient sitters for those situations where they are truly needed, but other, profit-driven hospitals might not.

Technology could also help Florida with a looming crisis in nursing home care, though that roll-out should be handled cautiously. Unlike Central Floridas hospital systems, which are predominantly nonprofit and offer high-quality care, this states long-term care industry includes some known bad actors.

Thats why state and national health authorities should hasten to set clear, research-driven guidelines that protect patients and improve care. But both OrlandoHealth and Advent seem to be putting the quality of care first, and thats the best possible prescription for blending technology and affordability into better care for sick Central Floridians.

The Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board consists of Opinion Editor Krys Fluker, Editor-in-Chief Julie Anderson and Viewpoints Editor Jay Reddick. Contact us at insight@orlandosentinel.com
A 49-year-old man has died after being shot by an El Paso police officer during an alleged knife assault at a home on the East Side, officials said Wednesday.

The shooting occurred Monday evening after police were dispatched soon after 4:45 p.m. on a call of a person armed with a weapon in the 2600 block of Schooner Drive across the street from Glen Cove Elementary School, police said.

Crime: Man killed in Lower Valley apartment in El Paso's latest homicide

When officers arrived, they "heard a distressed female voice from inside the residence pleading for help," police said in a news statement.

Police tried to talk to the man, who allegedly refused to comply with police orders and "made threats toward the victim's life." During the confrontation, a police officer shot the man, officials said.

A 49-year-old El Paso man has died after being shot by an El Paso police officer on Monday in the 2600 block of Schooner Drive in the East Side.

Police provided first aid until the arrival of paramedics, who rushed the wounded man to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead, officials said. The 52-year-old woman was also taken to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

The connection between the man and the woman, if any, has not been disclosed by police. Names have not been disclosed.

Immigration: Migrant numbers surge, concerns grow as El Paso City Council renews emergency ordinances

The officer fired his weapon while rescuing the woman during a knife attack in her home, Charley Wilkison of the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas, said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

CLEAT police union lawyers represent officers involved in shootings.

Police officials have not said whether the man was armed at the time he was shot. However, police officials said he would have faced a charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

More: Elite El Paso Border Patrol team helps capture fugitive Danelo Cavalcante in Pennsylvania

The officer involved in the shooting has been with the Police Department for five years. His name has not been disclosed.

As it is standard procedure, the police shooting is under investigation by detectives with the Crimes Against Persons Unit, Internal Affairs investigators and the Texas Rangers.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: El Paso man dies after shot by police during alleged knife assault
A prominent state prosecutor working on the El Paso Walmart mass shooting trial passed away over the weekend, district attorney officials said.

Ron Banerji, 49, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, Sept. 10, at his home, El Paso District Attorney Bill Hicks said. No information was released on a cause of death.

He is survived by his wife Amanda and children, Samantha and Alex, an obituary posted in the El Paso Times states.

Banerji was an assistant district attorney working as an appellate attorney for the El Paso District Attorney's Office's Appellate Division. He was one of three prosecutors working on the El Paso Walmart mass shooter trial.

"His loss is a professional loss as well as a very deep personal loss," Hicks said. "It's hard to say what he meant to the DA's office because he was not only an assistant district attorney, I counted him as one of my friends. He was just a really good, genuine, very nice guy. He was an excellent appellate attorney. Very, very intelligent, very sharp."

Ron Banerji

Banerji was born in Khewra, Pakistan and immigrated to the U.S. with his parents as a child, his obituary states.

He received a bachelor's degree in biochemistry at the University of Illinois Champagne-Urbana and then went on to graduate cum laude with his juris doctor degree in 2002 from the University of Notre Dame. He had lived in El Paso since 2010.

Banerji has worked in various legal fields in El Paso, including as an El Paso District Attorney's Office assistant district attorney and assistant attorney for the U.S. Attorney Office for the Western District of Texas.

More: Seeking justice: What's next in state's Walmart mass shooting case

He worked as an attorney for the Ray Pena McChristian Law Firm, before returning to the El Paso District Attorney's Office under Hicks' administration.

Banerji was one of the three main state prosecutors trying the largest criminal case in El Paso history  the El Paso Walmart shooting death penalty case.

"Obviously, we were counting on him to be the appellate arm of our strike force for the Walmart case," Hicks said. "He had already been providing the appellate support and research for all of the work and spreadsheet that we had been doing for the Walmart case and our Walmart team, and how we were approaching it and the different strategic decisions that we'd been discussing."

As the DA's Office mourns the loss of Banerji, discussions are being held on who will now fill the seat on the Walmart prosecutor team, Hicks said.

"We will assign another attorney," Hicks said. "We have already kind of been discussing that, but we will not make that announcement until later."

El Paso legal community mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant

Since the announcement of his death, the El Paso legal community has shown an outpouring of love and support for Banerji.

"He had dealt with various members of the criminal defense bar in both federal and state prosecutions and was very well respected across the line," Hicks said. "He was well known for being honorable and level headed. He was tough. He wouldn't back down. Whatever he said was the bottom line.

"But at the same time, he was fair and respected for that. That's why you saw such an outpouring from the legal community across the board. He was very well respected."

El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego held a moment of silence for Banerji, along with the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, during the Sept. 11 El Paso County Commissioners Court meeting.

"We lost one of your own, a county employee from the district attorney's office," Samaniego said. "It is really tough. We have a good family. We feel for each other and so this has been impactful to go through this situation."

More: El Pasoans remain committed to honor those lost in Walmart mass shooting

Several prominent El Pasoans have expressed their admiration for Banerji on a Facebook post Hicks' posted announcing Banerji's death.

"We too are saddened by this news," Samaniego replied in the Facebook post. "We profoundly pray for Ron and his family. We believe in our county family and this of course will impact all of our employees."

El Paso lawyer Brock Benjamin replied, "Ron was a good friend, colleague and 'opposing counsel.' He was a great guy. I'm floored and will keep his family in my thoughts and prayers."

El Paso County District Clerk Norma Favela Barceleau replied to Hick's announcement, "My sincerest condolences to his family and to you and your team."

Visitation for Banerji will be held from 5-9:00 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 18, 2023, at Sunset Funeral Home West, 480 North Resler Drive, with a reception at 6:30 p.m. followed by a eulogy at 7:00 p.m., according to Banerji's obituary.

Aaron Martinez may be reached at amartinez1@elpasotimes.com or on Twitter @AMartinezEPT.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: El Paso Walmart state prosecutor Ron Banerji passes away at 49
Photo: Ed N Burke

The provincial government is making it illegal for anyone to be in possession of drugs within close proximity of playgrounds, spray pools, wading pools and skate parks.

The province announced Thursday morning it has received permission from the feds to enact the ban.

Effective next Monday, Sept. 18, the possession of illicit drugs will be banned within 15 metres of any play structure in a playground, a spray or wading pool, or a skate park.

The announcement would be welcome news to Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas who has been urging the province to exclude parks from drug decriminalization rules that took effect this year.

B.C. had made a request to Health Canada for an amendment to the decriminalization policy to add these spaces to existing exclusions on possession, including on the premises of K-12 schools and licensed child care facilities.

"Our government is committed to breaking down barriers and connecting people to the supports they need," said Jennifer Whiteside, B.C.'s Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.

"We requested this amendment from Health Canada to ensure that families feel safe in their community while continuing to use every tool available to fight the toxic-drug crisis and save lives."

The government says it plans to introduce legislation in the fall to further regulate public drug use.
An employee of a power company was killed Tuesday while working in the Midlands, according to Black River Electric Cooperative.

Timothy John Gardner, a 34-year-old Sumter resident, was the lineman who was electrocuted, Kershaw County Coroner David West said Thursday.

Gardner was working with a crew on Canty Hill Road in Cassatt, Black River CEO Charlie Allen said in a release. Thats in the area between U.S. 1 and Interstate 20.

The lineman touched a piece of equipment that had become energized, Allen said. Further information about the incident and what the crew was working on was not available.

Attempts to resuscitate Gardner were unsuccessful and he was taken to MUSC Health Kershaw Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead, according to Allen.

No other injuries were reported in what Black River called an accident.

Black River is a close-knit family, and we are devastated with this loss, said Allen. We are praying for his family and his fellow linemen, and all of the people who called him a friend. He had the best personality, loved to talk to everyone and adored his wife and children. Words cannot express how much he will be missed.
Elon Musk contracted malaria while on safari in South Africa in 2000 and almost died, a new biography has claimed.

Walter Isaacson detailed the billionaires near-death experience in a new biography published this week.

Mr Musk contracted malaria during a holiday in South Africa after being ousted as CEO of PayPal by Peter Thiel in October 2000.

It was Mr Musks first time back in his native South Africa since leaving for Canada aged 17, Mr Isaacson wrote.

During his trip, Mr Musk and his then-wife Justine Musk went to a game reserve.

When he returned to California in January 2001, Mr Musk reportedly began to feel dizzy and experienced recurring waves of chills and started throwing up in an emergency room, leading to him being wrongly diagnosed with viral meningitis.

The billionaires condition worsened until his pulse was barely perceptible, according to the book.

Mr Musk was only diagnosed with malaria after a doctor with expertise in infectious diseases passed by his bed at Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City and realized he had a potentially fatal form of the disease that can affect the central nervous system or cause acute respiratory distress, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Mr Isaacson described how it took Mr Musk five months to fully recover after he was put in intensive care for 10 days and treated with doxycycline and chloroquine.

An email written by the head of human resources at X.com  later Paypal  to Mr Musks former business partners Peter Thiel and Max Levchin described how he was actually only hours from death, the biography revealed.

The Tesla CEOs mother Maye Musk described the ordeal as terrifying.

I remember your malaria infection very clearly. You were unconscious, yellow and shivering for days. Tubes were going in and out of you. It was a terrifying time. Modern medicine saved you, she wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

While he was in hospital, Mr Musks then-colleagues found hed taken out a life insurance policy worth $100 million on behalf of X.com.

If he had died, all of our financial problems were going to be solved, Mr Thiel reportedly told Isaacson.

Mr Musk told Isaacson: Vacations will kill you. Also, South Africa  that place is still trying to destroy me.

The tech mogul co-founded online bank X.com in 1999. The company merged with another payment system, Confinity, which was co-founded by Thiel and Levchin, and was renamed PayPal.

Isaacson was given access to the Tesla and SpaceX CEO over the past two years, which culminated in Mr Musks biography being published this week.

The writer spoke with several figures close to Mr Musk while writing the biography, including his ex-girlfriend Grimes and his former wives Tallulah Riley and Justine Musk, as well as his estranged father.

So far, the book has also claimed Musk and Grimes secretly welcomed a third child, in addition to X and their 22-month-old daughter Exa Dark Siderl. However, it was not immediately clear when their second son, named Techno Mechanicus or Tau, was born.

In the biography, Isaacson also writes that the tech moguls brother Kimbal Musk and his friends hated ex-girlfriend and actor Amber Heard so intensely, it made their distaste for Justine [Musks first wife] pale.

One review by The New York Times said Isaacsons biography stitches together a portrait of a Mr Musk as a mercurial man-child.
Walter Isaacson 's biography of Elon Musk shines new light on the world's richest person.

Musk once took a safari during a vacation to his native South Africa but contracted malaria.

While Musk was in hospital, colleagues found he'd taken out a $100 million life insurance policy.

The new biography of Elon Musk might explain one reason why the world's richest person seems to dislike vacations: he contracted malaria while on safari in South Africa in 2000.

Walter Isaacson, whose biography of Elon Musk was published this week, was given access to the Tesla and SpaceX CEO over the past two years. One chapter details his near-death experience.

After being ousted as CEO of PayPal by Peter Thiel in October 2000, Musk took what Isaacson said was his first real vacation from work, first traveling to Brazil to visit his cousin and then on to his native South Africa for a wedding. It was Musk's first time back since leaving for Canada aged 17, Isaacson wrote.

After spending time with his family in Pretoria, Musk and his then-wife Justine Musk went to a game reserve, according to the book.

Peter Thiel and Elon Musk with X.com credit in October 2000. Paul Sakuma/AP

On his return to Palo Alto, California in January 2001, Isaacson writes that Musk felt dizzy, experienced recurring waves of chills, and started throwing up in an emergency room. He was wrongly diagnosed with viral meningitis and his condition continued to worsen until Musk's "pulse was barely perceptible," per the book.

A doctor with expertise in infectious diseases passed by Musk's bed at Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City and realized he had falciparum malaria, a potentially fatal form that can affect the central nervous system or cause "acute respiratory distress," according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

"He was actually only hours from death," the head of human resources at X.com (which became Paypal) wrote in an email to Musk's former business partners Peter Thiel and Max Levchin.

Isaacson goes on to describe how Musk was put in intensive care, and given intravenous infusions and massive doses of doxycycline.

He was also treated with chloroquine, a drug which he would later suggest  with no medical basis  be used to treat the COVID-19 virus.

Recalling the ordeal earlier this year, Elon Musk and his mother, Maye, tweeted that "modern medicine" had saved his life.

"I'd be dead from malaria if not for chloroquine & doxycycline," Musk tweeted. His mother described it as "a terrifying time," and agreed that ''modern medicine saved you."

I remember your malaria infection very clearly. You were unconscious, yellow and shivering for days. Tubes were going in and out of you. It was a terrifying time. Modern medicine saved you. https://t.co/abOUPcEufT  Maye Musk (@mayemusk) June 18, 2023

Musk spent 10 days in intensive care and it took him five months to fully recover, Isaacson writes.

While he was in hospital, Musk's then-colleagues found he'd taken out a life insurance policy worth $100 million on behalf of X.com.

"If he had died, all of our financial problems were going to be solved," Thiel told Isaacson.

X.com was an online bank that was cofounded by Musk in 1999. The company merged with another payment system, Confinity, which was co-founded by Thiel and Levchin, and was renamed PayPal.

Musk told Isaacson that he learned two lessons from his near-death experience: "Vacations will kill you. Also, South Africa  that place is still trying to destroy me."

Shortly before the visit to his homeland, he'd taken another trip that ended badly. Eight months after their wedding, Elon and Justine Musk finally went on their honeymoon in September 2000, which had been delayed by X.com 's merger with PayPal . But amid turmoil at the company, the couple had to book last-minute flights back to the US. Musk was ultimately ousted as CEO and replaced by Thiel.

"That's the problem with vacations," Musk told Fortune 13 years later.

Isaacson's biography has also garnered attention for revealing that the SpaceX CEO interfered with a Ukrainian offensive attack in Crimea by disabling nearby Starlink coverage, angering Ukrainian officials.

Other revelations include that he has a third child with his former partner Grimes.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Elon Musk was rebuked by Taiwan after appearing to defend the one-China policy: 'Listen up, Taiwan is not for sale'

Elon Musk at the Tesla Shanghai Gigafactory groundbreaking ceremony in 2019. REUTERS/Aly Song

Elon Musk compared Taiwan to Hawaii, suggesting it was "an integral part of China."

Taiwan's minister of foreign affairs hit back, saying the island is "certainly not for sale!"

The Tesla CEO met with China's foreign minister during a trip to the country in May.

Elon Musk provoked a heated response from the Taiwanese government on Wednesday, after he appeared to defend China's claim over the disputed island.

During a virtual appearance at the All-In Summit while onboard his private jet, Musk explained how Beijing's "policy has been to reunite Taiwan with China."

"From their standpoint, maybe it is analogous to Hawaii or something like that," he said. "Like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China, mostly because the US Pacific Fleet has stopped any sort of reunification effort by force."

The comments did not go down well with Taiwan.

"Listen up, Taiwan is not part of the PRC & certainly not for sale!" said Joseph Wu, the Taiwanese minister of foreign affairs, on his department's X account.

Hope @elonmusk can also ask the #CCP to open @X to its people. Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off @Starlink to thwart #Ukraines counterstrike against #Russia. Listen up, #Taiwan is not part of the #PRC & certainly not for sale! JW https://t.co/HEhyTYYXFp   Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ROC (Taiwan)  (@MOFA_Taiwan) September 13, 2023

Wu also took the opportunity to send a couple jibes at Musk, as he suggested X should be unbanned in China.

"Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off Starlink to thwart Ukraine's counterstrike against Russia," the government official said.

That refers to an incident where Musk refused Ukraine's request to activate Starlink in Crimea to aid an attack, as Musk feared it would lead to nuclear war. On Tuesday, Vladimir Putin described Musk as "undoubtedly an outstanding person."

Elon Musk met with Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang in May. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs/Handout via REUTERS

The Taiwan furor comes after Musk visited China in May, where he received a 16-course banquet, bought burgers for 100 workers at Tesla's Shangahi Gigafactory, and met with Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang.

"I think I understand China well," Musk said at the All-In Summit. "I've been there many times. I've met with senior leadership at the mainlands of China for many years."

"If one is to take China's policy recently, and probably one should, then force will be used to incorporate Taiwan into China," he added.

Musk did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment, sent outside US working hours.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Elon Musk was challenged by a Sky News reporter on Wednesday.

He was asked whether his "ego and ignorance" had cost Ukrainian lives.

A new biography revealed that Musk stopped a Ukrainian attack on Russia by not activating Starlink satellites.

SpaceX chief Elon Musk was challenged by a reporter on whether his decision to thwart a Ukrainian attack on the Russian navy by not activating Starlink satellites had cost Ukrainian lives.

James Matthews, Sky News' US correspondent, on Tuesday questioned Musk as he left a meeting with the Federal Aviation Authority in Washington, DC.

Musk refused to answer when asked if his "ego and ignorance" had cost Ukrainian lives, or when asked to comment about Russian President Vladimir Putin 's description of him as "outstanding."

"Vladimir Putin calls you outstanding, Mr. Musk. Do you appreciate that? What would you call Vladimir Putin? Has your ego and ignorance, sir, cost Ukrainian lives? A senior war official says it has," said Matthews.

Musk is facing criticism after Walter Isaacson, in his new biography of the billionaire, revealed that Musk had halted a Ukrainian attack on the Russian navy in Sevastopol, Crimea, in the early weeks of the Ukraine war.

Musk refused to activate Starlink satellites being used to guide Ukrainian drones to their targets, Isaacson has said, correcting his initial account in which he said Musk had turned them off.

"The war in Ukraine, when no other company or even country could manage to keep communications satellites working, gave him a center-stage opportunity to show his humanitarian instincts while playing superhero," said Isaacson.

"It also showed the complexities of critical military infrastructure being controlled by an often well-intentioned but mercurial private citizen."

Musk in a tweet said if he hadn't stopped the attack "then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and conflict escalation."

Ukraine has criticized the decision, with Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, saying that by foiling the attack Musk "allowed this fleet to fire Kalibr missiles at Ukrainian cities", resulting in the deaths of civilians.

The Kremlin has praised it, with Putin describing Musk as an "outstanding person" on Wednesday.

Other critics say Musk's claim the attack would've escalated the conflict was wrong, and have pointed to other attacks Ukrainian attacks on Sevastopol, including one on Tuesday, that have not resulted in a massive Russian retaliation.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The foreign minister of Taiwan has called out Elon Musk directly after the billionaire appeared to suggest the island was an integral part of China much like Hawaii is part of the United States.

Joseph Wus rebuke, in a post late Wednesday on Musks own Twitter/X network, followed Musks appearance at a tech summit in Los Angeles where he predicted that one way or the other the Chinese were determined to take over Taiwan.

Its the second time in a week that a foreign nations officials have attacked the worlds richest manwhose companies include SpaceX and Tesla.

He faced a torrent of criticism after the revelation that he had blocked access to his Starlink satellite network near occupied Crimea to restrict Ukrainian attacks. His critics say that action has cost Ukrainian lives as they try to reclaim their territory from Russias illegal invasion.

A senior Ukrainian official responded to the revelation by accusing Musk of committing evil.

President Vladimir Putin came out to defend Musk a few days later, describing him as an outstanding person.

Musk was quizzed on the Starlink controversy as he appeared remotely at the All-In Summit in LA on Tuesday, getting a round of applause from the tech bros after declaring: The Ukrainian government is not in charge of U.S. people or companies. Thats not how it works.

Leaders Ignored Warning Signs That Musk Would Help Putin

After that dig at Ukraine, Musk went on to give his opinion on China-Taiwan: another conflict where, it appears that he believes, might is right.

Asked about rising tensions between the West and China, and their effects in Silicon Valley, Musk pointed out that China had been pushing for reunification with Taiwan for more than half a century.

He went on: From this standpoint, maybe its analogous to, like, Hawaii or something like that: an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China, mainly because the U.S. Pacific Fleet has stopped any reunification effort by force.

There is nothing arbitrary about Taiwans independence, however; the island was the only holdout against the Communist Party in the Chinese Civil War, which ended in the mainland being re-named the Peoples Republic of China in 1949. The former Chinese government fled to Taiwan, which has remained independent ever since.

Things have got to the point where Chinas military strength is increasing, and ours is more or less static. And strategically, you can imagine, trying to defend Taiwan is not easy, because its very close to the coast of China, he added.

There will come a point, probably in the not-too-distant future, when Chinas military strength in that region far exceeds U.S. military strength in that region. And if one is to take Chinas policy literally, and probably one should, there will be some forceful... force will be used to incorporate Taiwan into China. This is what theyve said: If theres not a diplomatic solution, there will be a solution by force.

A Badly Timed Trip to China Throws Taiwan Into a Firestorm

Musk went on to predict a period of rising U.S tensions as China builds up its military power in the South China Sea, with tit-for-tat reciprocal sanctions over the next few years.

Then well see: Is there going to be a diplomatic solution to reunification or a non-diplomatic solution? But he [Chinese leader Xi Jinping] has made it clear that one way or the other there will be a solution, from his standpoint."

Wus response came via the official X/Twitter account of the Taiwanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which reposted a clip from Musks appearance with a fierce comment, signed by Wu, pointing out that X is banned in Chinaand that Taiwan is not part of the Peoples Republic of China.

Hope @elonmusk can also ask the #CCP to open @X to its people. Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off @Starlink to thwart #Ukraines counterstrike against #Russia. Listen up, #Taiwan is not part of the #PRC & certainly not for sale! JW https://t.co/HEhyTYYXFp   Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ROC (Taiwan)  (@MOFA_Taiwan) September 13, 2023

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.
Tesla titan and multi-billionaire Elon Musk has reportedly warned US senators at a private meeting that unregulated artificial intelligence technology poses a civilisational risk to society.

Senate majority leader Chuch Schumer convened a meeting of the most prominent tech executives in the US to help pass a bipartisan legislation encouraging both the rapid development of AI technology and also mitigating its biggest risks.

The closed-door meeting was attended by some of the tech industrys biggest names, including Tesla and SpaceX boss Mr Musk, Metas Mark Zuckerberg, former Microsoft chief Bill Gates, Alphabets Sundar Pichai, as well as OpenAI founder Sam Altman.

As Mr Musk left the Capitol building following several hours of the meeting, he told reporters that we have to be proactive rather than reactive in regulating AI as its consequences of going wrong are severe.

The question is really one of civilizational risk. Its not like  one group of humans versus another. Its like, hey, this is something thats potentially risky for all humans everywhere, he said, according to NBC News.

Mr Musk also reportedly called for a government AI agency, similar to the Securities and Exchange Commission or the Federal Aviation Administration to oversee developments in the sector and ensure safety.

Leaders in the tech industry also called for a balanced approach towards regulating AI.

In his prepared remarks, Mr Zuckerberg said the two defining issues for AI are safety and access, adding that the US Congress should engage with AI to support innovation and safeguards.

New technology often brings new challenges, and its on companies to make sure we build and deploy products responsibly, the Meta chief said.

This is an emerging technology, there are important equities to balance here, and the government is ultimately responsible for that, he added.

The Facebook founder called for policymakers, academics, civil society and industry to work together to minimise the potential risks of AI, but also to maximise its potential benefits.

Some of the measures he suggested for building safeguards into AI systems included selecting the data to train with, extensively red-teaming internally and externally to identify and fix issues, fine-tuning the models for alignment, and partnering with safety-minded cloud providers to add additional filters to the systems we release.

As lawmakers at the US Capitol Hill interacted with tech giant chiefs about potential AI regulations, companies including Microsoft, OpenAI, Meta, Alphabet, and Amazon were also being probed on the conditions of the workers behind tools like ChatGPT, Bing, and Bard.

Lawmakers are reportedly probing the working conditions of data labelers who are tasked by companies, often at outsourced firms, to label data used to train AI and for rating chatbot responses.

Despite the essential nature of this work, millions of data workers around the world perform these stressful tasks under constant surveillance, with low wages and no benefits, lawmakers, including Elizabeth Warren and Edward Markey, said in a letter to tech executives.

These conditions not only harm the workers, they also risk the quality of the AI systems potentially undermining accuracy, introducing bias, and jeopardizing data protection, they said.
At first, Bill Leikam wasnt sure what he was seeing when a mysterious creature scampered across his screen as he reviewed trail cam footage shot near a California creek.

I have enough experience with the wildlife out there to be able to identify every one of them just by their movement  this one had me baffled, Leikam told the Los Angeles Times. Id never seen a critter out there moving like this little guy did.

As he reviewed the footage from Matadero Creek near Palo Alto south of San Francisco, the truth slowly dawned on him.

Finally, it hit me in the head, Leikam, president and co-founder of the Urban Wildlife Research Project, told SFGate. Could that be a baby beaver?

Baby beavers havent been seen in the creek for 160 years, since they were nearly hunted to extinction by fur trappers, Palo Alto Online reported.

Leikam consulted with wildlife experts and a historic archaeologist to confirm his hunch, the Los Angeles Times reported.

It definitely has the shape of a beaver, which is pretty unmistakable, Heidi Perryman, president of Worth a Dam, a beaver advocacy organization in Martinez, told the San Francisco Chronicle.

Perryman told the publication its reasonable to assume the pup is the offspring of two adult beavers that Leikam spotted near the creek in 2022.

State wildlife officials have been encouraging the return of beavers and their ponds, which they credit for reducing drought problems, boosting climate change resiliency and slowing wildfires, to Northern California, SFGate reported.

This new beaver family is really important if they survive and reproduce, Rick Lanman, president of the Institute for Historical Ecology, told the Los Angeles Times. Its just remarkable.

Rare and dangerous creature has babies at Florida zoo. See the scaly hatchlings

Pet lemur escapes  and little fella leads cops on wild chase, Missouri video shows

Sea creatures glow electric blue as they hunt in California, otherworldly video shows
Up to 30 migrant families will be housed at the Rodeway Inn on Main Street in Westminster, according to a Sept. 11 statement by the Westminster Select Board.

There are currently hundreds of migrant families being housed in hotels in communities throughout the Commonwealth, and soon that will include Westminster, officials wrote. As a small town and a tight-knit community, we will endeavor to help our new inhabitants adjust, feel welcomed, thrive, and become productive residents of Westminster.

The families are being moved into the motel at 183 Main St. by Making Opportunity Count (MOC) Inc. of Fitchburg in cooperation with the states Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, according to officials.

Officials in Westminster said the Rodeway Inn would become a shelter for up to 30 displaced migrant families within the next week.

The town has not received a confirmed move-in date but it is projected to within the next week, the letter reads. The Commonwealths Right to Shelter law obligates the state to provide housing for families in hotels in cities and towns throughout the Commonwealth without the need for local approval and in many instances, without prior notice."

Logistics are the Guards strong suit": National Guard deploying to Mass. migrant shelters on Wednesday

Gov. Maura Healey recently activated the National Guard to help with the more than 6,000 migrant families seeking shelter in Massachusetts.

Only action regarding immigration policy at the federal level or a change in state law could directly address the situation, officials stated.

Living in North Central Massachusetts: Gardner hotel providing shelter for migrant families - what we know

In light of these circumstances, it is our sincere hope that Westminster will continue to be the kind and welcoming community we all know it is, the letter read. Integrating these new migrant families into our town and school district will be a challenge, but we are prepared to remain in compliance with the Governors initiative and state law during this time.

More: Local group aims to welcome displaced families to Gardner

Board members said they were confident that by working collaboratively with state and local legislators, as well town and school leadership, the community will meet the needs of this new challenge.

Officials in Gardner recently announced that up to 36 migrant families were currently living at a hotel shelter site in the city.

This article originally appeared on Gardner News: Westminster to house displaced migrant families at the Rodeway Inn
Photo: pixabay

A West Vancouver tenant who withheld part of his rent because he thought the wine cooler his landlord had installed was inadequate has been told to put a cork in it by the B.C. Court of Appeal.

The legal dispute  which focused on whether the wine cooler installed in a West Vancouver townhouse was up to snuff  went through several Residential Tenancy Board hearings and attempts to appeal to the courts over a three-year period.

The tenants case was eventually dismissed by the B.C. Court of Appeal Sept. 8.

According to a written decision that decanted the case, under a tenancy agreement signed April 1, 2020, Azmairnin Jadavji was to rent a West Vancouver townhome from landlord Jingjng Yin at a monthly rent of $5,700 for a three-year period.

Immediately after moving in, however, Jadavji complained about several perceived deficiencies, including a broken wine cooler and dirty blinds, and in July asked the Residential Tenancy Board to reduce his rent and order repairs.

By October, an arbitrator for the tenancy board had ordered the landlord to fix the problems, including providing a functional wine cooler," noting the issue of the wine cooler appears to have been of particular concern to the tenant.

But by early 2021, the tenant was back before the board, arguing the wine cooler was still inadequate, and his blinds still needed cleaning.

The issue apparently had legs, and the tenant and landlord had further arguments before the board, with an arbitrator ordering the landlord to install a fancier wine cooler after the tenant complained the new wine cooler was not of comparable quality to the one that had broken.

When the tenant continued to withhold a portion of his rent for the perceived deficiencies following the installation of a new unit, his landlord issued him an eviction order for unpaid rent.

Another arbitrator who weighed in on the case agreed with the landlord that enough was enough, awarding Yin $5,400 in unpaid rent.

The arbitrator also agreed with the landlord that the reason some of the tenants blinds had not been cleaned was the tenant refused to move his furniture out of the way.

The tenant attempted to dispute the decision twice more, at first arguing he had been denied the opportunity to participate fully in the online hearing because hed joined late due to an invalid access code. He later tried asking for a judicial review of the case, under other technical grounds, which was rejected by B.C. Supreme Court.

Most recently, the Court of Appeal upheld that decision, with a panel of three appeal court justices pouring out the dregs of those arguments, writing, The tenant has failed to establish that the decision of the arbitrator was patently unreasonable or procedurally unfair.
The Prairie Palooza celebration is set to take place in the canyon this weekend.

The Palo Duro Canyon Foundation and Texas State Parks are coming together to celebrate 100 years of Texas State Parks and Palo Duro Canyon State Park's (PDCSP) heritage with the event, to be held Saturday, Sept. 16 beginning at 7:30 a.m. in the park located at 11450 Park Rd. 5 in Canyon.

"We are not celebrating 100 years with the Palo Duro Canyon, not yet, but we are celebrating 100 years of Texas state parks as a whole, which came into fruition in 1923," said Bradley Kliemann, park interpreter at PDCSP. "Our theme is 100 years of the past, and 100 years of the future in the state park, so we will be looking at our history and the next partnerships for the future of PDCSP."

The Palo Duro Canyon Foundation and Texas State Parks welcomes the community to celebrate 100 years of Texas State Parks with the Prairie Palooza, set for Saturday in the Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

Guests are invited to enjoy a free special performance of TEXAS Outdoor musical Saturday during Prairie Palooza, as the Texas State Parks celebrates 100 years.

According to Kliemann, the Prairie Palooza will include booths and vendors with local businesses, food trucks, activities, exploration of a traditional native American teepee, roping events and more.

Kicking off the event, the community is invited to participate in the Sad Monkey Mercantile 5K Race beginning at 7:30 a.m. All funds raised by the run will benefit the Amarillo VA Healthcare System's Suicide Prevention Program.

Those who register are encouraged to pick up their packets Friday, Sept. 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. Individuals can register online at http://getmeregistered.com/SadMonkey5K .

Beginning at 10 a.m., attendees are welcome to enjoy the natural views and local vendors, as well as the park's gift shop until 1 p.m., where the Partners in Palo Duro Canyon Foundation Chuckwagon Lunch will begin, featuring their authentic chicken fried steak lunch for $25 per ticket, with 15 participating chuckwagons.

Tickets are being sold through Panhandle Tickets at www.panhandletickets.com until Friday, Sept. 15.

"Our Chuckwagon meal is an option for those that want a little more than the food truck and are looking for that authentic meal that you would commonly eat 100 years ago in the Canyon," Kliemann said.

Closing off the evening, there will be a free special performance of TEXAS Outdoor Musical at 6 p.m. in the Pioneer Amphitheater. The performance will showcase some of the music and dance from the show. Tickets are not necessary, and seating will be first come, first serve.

"We just want the community to come and celebrate with us, enjoy the views that many have come here for, for over 100 years, and help us prepare for the next 100 years with Texas State Parks," Kliemann said.

A group of friends and family gather inside the Sad Monkey Mercantile, located near the Palo Duro Canyon.

The Sad Monkey Mercantile has a variety of merchandise for sale in its venue near Palo Duro Canyon.

Following the performance, attendees are invited to round off the evening at the Sad Monkey Mercantile, located one mile outside the park entrance on the south side of Highway 217, for live music and beverages.

Admission into the park will be will be free all day Saturday. Free parking and a shuttle will be provided to PDCSP from Sad Monkey Mercantile, sponsored by Visit Amarillo.

Shaded seating will be provided, and beverages will be available for purchase. The park does ask for those planning to attend to be aware of the weather and to utilize sunscreen, wear light colored, loose fitting clothing, wear a hat, and drink plenty of water.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Prairie Palooza celebrates Texas state parks at Palo Duro Canyon
On the first day of classes at the University of Kentucky, Juanes Ramirez sat in the Gatton Student Center.

It was mid-morning at the start of a heat wave in Lexington, and temperatures were already climbing into the 80s. He sat with DeLainey Potts before their next classes.

Though it was Ramirezs sophomore year, it was his first at UK. He transferred from Eastern Kentucky University after learning more about UKs music programs, and for the opportunity to be in the marching band at a SEC school.

Theres a big love for UK in my household, so it was exciting to be able to continue that family tradition we have, Ramirez said. And on top of that, I was always really interested in the musical programs here.

Statewide, college enrollment has been declining over the last 10 years. Some institutions however, like the University of Kentucky, are seeing record enrollment growth. To sustain long-term enrollment growth, college are making changes to how they operate and learning more about what students need.

When Ramirez decided to come to UK, the schools diversity also was important. Originally from Columbia, Ramirez said UKs programs, like the Martin Luther King Center, stood out and immediately made him feel included. He saw an investment in its diverse student body, and felt that he would be welcomed. It made a big campus feel small, he said.

Students gather within several communal areas of UKs Gatton Student Center between classes, August 21, 2023. Marcus Dorsey/mdorsey@herald-leader.com

But nationally, the number of students enrolling in undergraduate programs is declining. From 2019 to 2022, undergraduate enrollment fell 8%, according to data from the National Student Clearinghouse.

Undergraduate enrollment has fared better at 4-year institutions than elsewhere. From 2019 to 2022, undergraduate enrollment at public four-year colleges saw a 3% decrease. At community colleges in the same time period, undergraduate enrollment fell 16%.

In Kentucky, college enrollment has dropped in the last decade from 261,613 students enrolled at colleges in the state in the 2012-2013 school year, to 250,828 students in the 2022-2023 school year  a 4% decrease, according to enrollment data from the Council on Postsecondary Education.

However, some institutions have managed to buck that trend in recent years. The University of Kentucky had gradual increases throughout the pandemic, and in the past two years has experienced record-setting enrollment. Last month, UK welcomed its largest-ever class of freshman students and predicted this fall will be its largest enrollment ever, surpassing 33,000 students, while some regional universities, like Western Kentucky University, have struggled to recover enrollment losses in recent years.

Bluegrass Community and Technical College enrollment has been slightly less predictable, with increases in some years and decreases in others. College officials said they are expecting growth this fall, anticipating large increases in the number of dual enrollment students.

University officials in Kentucky said the pandemic reshaped many of the norms at schools. Enrollment changed, and schools had to adjust to support their populations.

COVID was a shifter for everyone, said Kirsten Turner, UKs vice president for student success. We saw our enrollment not on that same upward trajectory. Not all-time highs, but still healthy enrollment, just not higher than each year.

The fall 2022 semester brought a record number of first-year students, and a record overall enrollment. This fall, UK is anticipating more than 6,400 freshman students, and another record overall enrollment. (Enrollment data wont be finalized until several weeks into the fall semester, after the date when students can drop classes or change their enrollment status.)

UK has done a very good job of branding themselves as a holistic institution, said Aaron Thompson, president of the Council on Postsecondary Education, which oversees the states universities and community and technical colleges. UK has really created themselves as a modern day campus that serves students in a variety of ways.

What does a growing enrollment mean for campus?

Housing was already tight at UK as the school awaited its largest-ever freshman class to arrive on campus. Last year, UK utilized temporary housing options as 6,000 freshmen enrolled.

In total, UK has more than 8,000 beds available for undergraduate students on campus, including dorms, specialty housing and Greek housing. Its the most on-campus housing UK has offered at one time, Heath Price, associate vice president for partnerships at UK, previously told the Herald-Leader.

The housing shortage didnt stop students from applying to live on campus, though. Freshman Kourtney Kloos said the campus tour and dorms were part of what convinced to her attend UK, along with the short drive to her hometown of Louisville.

I applied to Tennessee, Auburn, Alabama, a bunch of SEC schools, Kloos said. And once I toured UK ... I just loved it. From the tour, everythings so new. The dorms were a big selling point. Everyone I met was so nice.

Around 86% of first-year students typically live on campus.

This fall, with 400 more freshmen students than enrolled last year, UK again turned to creative solutions for housing. Multi-purpose rooms were converted into living spaces, and UK launched a pilot program called TRI-IT, which converted two-bedroom, two-person suited into three-person suites.

UK anticipates future classes continuing to grow, meaning housing will continue to be in demand in the coming years.

While BCTC has looked to younger students, at UK, the number of graduate students enrolled has grown. In the 2012-13 school year, there were 7,127 graduate students enrolled.

That number has grown, especially in the last four years. While undergraduate enrollment had only slight increases during the pandemic, graduate enrollment grew from 7,166 students in 2019 to 8,812 students in 2022.

Overall enrollment during the past few years in the pandemic did increase, but it was really driven by graduate students, said Todd Brann, executive director of UKs institutional research, analytics and decision support.

At BCTC, where students dont live on campus and the population ranges from high school students to someone returning for a second degree, students began asking for more online options. Greg Feeny, acting president of BCTC, said they made decisions based around the motto, One student at a time. That often means slowing down or occasionally changing the norm to adjust to what could best help a student, he said.

This shift in approach could mean offering things like evening or weekend appointments, and communicating more often with high schools about dual enrollment offerings, credits and degree paths.

As dual enrollment and dual credit options are becoming more popular among students, there are now younger students on BCTCs campus which means parts of the college experience are changing, too. The number of dual credit students  those who are taking courses for college credit while still enrolled in high school  has doubled in the past two years, said Emma Gibbs, director of dual credit at BCTC.

Its definitely been a welcome change, said Gibbs. Its awesome to have so many people on campus.

The renovated Eastern State Hospital laundry building, now called The Den and home to student services including admissions, advising and financial aid, was recently opened at Bluegrass Community and Technical College  Newtown Campus in Lexington, Ky., on Thursday, May 26, 2022. Ryan C. Hermens/rhermens@herald-leader.com

But with younger students  nearly 3,000 dual credit students are expected this fall  come adjustments for professors and administrators. Dual credit students are still in high school, and may not yet know how to operate on a college campus or in a college course. They have to learn how to complete college-level work, and oftentimes, become more independent.

A few courses are most popular for dual credit, including general education classes that students will take in college, like 100-level English, math and history courses, as well as health courses like nursing and medical terminology that students need as prerequisites for a health major. Students are also interested in certificate courses, like electrical and welding tracks, that allow them to immediately enter the workforce.

Along with dual credit options, schools within the Kentucky Community and Technical College System are often the most affordable option for students who want to transfer to a four-year college, Thompson said. It also helps students move into technical careers quickly, he said.

Youre going to get a quality education, and then you move to a four-year institution after that, Thompson said. But weve also had a big increase in the need for advanced manufacturing and technical skills, and you can get a short-term credential that will help you move into a high-paying job fairly quickly.

Changes in students

As institutions change their strategies and offerings, the student body has changed along with them. While previous students may have been more hesitant to speak up or ask for help and accommodations, BCTC and UK administrators said the current classes of students are more willing to advocate for themselves.

Students know themselves more than they did five years ago, Feeny said.

At BCTC, that meant providing more support for students, from things like laptops to the food bank.

Increases in the number of dual credit students mean more younger students in classes and on campuses, Gibbs said. Professors and administrators have had to work with students on skills like organization and preparation for college-level classes.

At UK, Turner said shes seen more self-advocacy from current students.

Well see students come in and say, I dont know if I need counseling, but I want to know where the counseling center is, Turner said.

Especially among younger students, Turner said they are more willing to speak up for themselves than in years past. Students want to know what support UK offers outside the classroom, and have taken advantage of them.

Jakob Combs, a junior from London, Kentucky, said he chose UK because of its diversity and location. The ability to live in a city that was different from the small town he grew up in was a huge factor when deciding on a college.

Students gather within several communal areas of UKs Gatton Student Center between classes, August 21, 2023. Marcus Dorsey/mdorsey@herald-leader.com

I really just wanted a change in scenery, a change in the people that are around me, and really wanted to diversity my own life and become a more accepting and inclusive person, Combs said.

He works as a resident assistant at UK, and said he views that as a way to help younger students find that diversity at the university.

I try to teach other students that are incoming, that are maybe from small towns, about a bunch of different cultures and a bunch of different identities that we have on this campus, Combs said. I want everyone to more inclusive, and its just really nice knowing that Im able to help with a little learning moment for people, and people are willing to learn too.

Recruiting

UK has changed its recruiting strategy in recent years, Turner said. Instead of sending recruiters to cities, they now have dedicated recruiters who live in cities around the region, like Atlanta and Chicago. Its something UK did prior to COVID, but recently expanded.

We think that has been successful for us, because the UK person gets to know the city and the high school and the high school student in different ways, Turner said.

BCTC, meanwhile, has poured resources into dual credit and certification programs, turning to local high schools.

Lafayette High School, Paul Lawrence Dunbar High School and Bryan Station High School send the most students to BCTC, but students come from outside Fayette County, too, including Jessamine and Woodford counties.

It really is a team effort, and being aware of the common goal, Gibbs said.

Potts, who sat with Ramirez on the first day at UK, she also appreciated the community aspect of UK, especially the professors shed had.

Ive never met a teacher I didnt like, Potts said. Everyones open and willing to help.

In her time at UK, she said it felt like shes been set up for success.

I genuinely do not think you can fail here, unless you try to fail, Potts said. They have so many resources. Theres literally no way you can do wrong. They have help in every corner.
NATIONAL HARBOR, Md.  The Air Force will miss its annual enlisted recruiting goal across all three components for the first time since 1999, as waning interest in military service and administrative hurdles continue to plague efforts to train the next generation of troops.

The active duty Air Force made it about 90% of the way to its goal of 26,877 enlisted recruits, falling short by nearly 2,700 airmen, Air Force Recruiting Service boss Brig. Gen. Christopher Amrhein told reporters here Wednesday.

The Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard fared worse, limping toward the finish line with 30% shortfalls in each component. The Reserve and Guard had hoped to bring in 9,300 and 11,745 enlisted airmen, respectively.

Senators press Pentagon on new medical systems recruiting impact

Meanwhile, the Space Force, which falls under the Department of the Air Force, surpassed its enlisted goal of 472 new guardians.

Those numbers will be finalized after the years last batch of new airmen and guardians ship out to basic military training next week. Recruiting pushes typically focus on enlisted troops, who comprise the majority of the armed forces and lack the same college-to-military pipelines that bring in officers more easily.

We remain committed to recruiting only Americas best to be the next generation of American airmen and [Space Force] guardians, Amrhein said at the Air and Space Forces Associations annual Air, Space and Cyber Conference.

How the slowdown may affect the Air Forces daily operations in combat and at bases around the world remains to be seen. But officials worry it will hinder U.S. efforts to counter Chinese and Russian aggression and influence around the world, and to win future wars.

The geopolitical landscape was so much different in 1999, the last time the entire Air Force failed to hit its enlisted recruiting goal, Amrhein said. Missing this year is kind of at a critical point.

Still, recruiting officials said they havent seen a drop in the quality of incoming airmen.

Amrhein commended a slew of changes to policies around drug use, body composition, tattoos and more for softening the blow without compromising quality, as well as potentially setting the service up for future success. More than 1,000 people have entered the Air Force as a result of those tweaks, he said.

If we hadnt deviated much from our former recruiting practices, this recruiting shortfall could have been much worse, Amrhein said.

With that in mind, the services top recruiter said he is cautiously optimistic about surpassing next years goal. The final quarter of fiscal 2023 has been extremely strong, Amrhein said, and the service has already gotten a head start on the first months of fiscal 2024.

The Air Force hopes to bring in 25,900 new active duty enlisted airmen next fiscal year.

It has already filled all entry-level positions for September and October, and all but 15 jobs in November, Amrhein said. The only exception is 21 positions in the special warfare community, which are the hardest jobs to fill.

The service is about 2,000 trainees short of the 6,500-person waitlist that Amrhein would like to see at the beginning of the fiscal year. Still, thousands more people are waiting to leave for boot camp than there were at the start of fiscal 2023.

The commander said he aims to return the services frazzled recruiters to a more manageable workload after pushing them hard to fill the gap by the end of the year.

We cant keep people in that battle rhythm forever, he said.

To help, nearly 100 more Air Force recruiters will hit the field early next year. Around 1,900 Air Force recruiters are spread across the United States, some of whom are the sole face of the force across a large swath of territory.

The service has also grown its cadre of e-recruiters, those who handle online leads rather than probing a local area for interest, from five to 21 workers.

And Amrhein said the service is bringing in around 60 more medical staffers to help work through the massive backlog of health questions that can keep applicants waiting for months.

MHS Genesis, the Pentagons new repository of digital health records, can peer into an applicants entire medical history  helping avoid potential pitfalls, but creating a bureaucratic headache for those tasked with deciding whether years-old prescriptions and diagnoses are cause for future concern.

It now takes three times as long to process medical files than it did 18 months ago, Amrhein said. That eats away precious time that recruiters need to make contacts and sign contracts.

The service is looking at expanding its waivers for applicants who would otherwise be disqualified by certain medical issues, like past eye surgeries, he added.

Air Force Recruiting Service Deputy Commander Brig. Gen. Lisa Craig hopes investments in data-crunching software and other apps that can automate a recruiters workload will also help them focus on the areas and tasks that matter most.

Many other challenges remain. Reserve and Guard leaders said they are grappling with congressional limitations on the number of full-time staffers in their components, which have hurt recruiting efforts and end strength.

The portion of qualified Americans who are willing to don a uniform continues to shrink, Amrhein said, making it even more important for troops to familiarize the public with todays military and break through stereotypes and misperceptions they may hold.

Why I serve: More Americans need to understand why an Air Force career is so rewarding

For instance, Amrhein said, someone is more likely to be severely injured on their way to work than they are in the course of military service.

Leaders hope their efforts will break through the noise of everyday life and appeal to young Americans desire to make a difference.

Service to our nation is more than just a Honda Civic, Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne Bass said during a keynote address Wednesday, referring to her plan to pay for her cherry-red sedan as a young enlisted airman.

Service to our nation requires a commitment that you do not find in everyday America, she said. This is not Google. This is not Chick-fil-A. This is not Home Depot.  This is the United States Air Force.
In 2022, New York Citys Democratic mayor Eric Adams wanted to talk about crime. To anyone who would listen, he repeated again and again that crime in the city was rampant, unchecked, out of control. I have never in my professional careerI have never witnessed crime at this level, he said last year, echoing his campaign trail refrain that crime had reverted to 1990s levels. Wehe said on the stump, implying the Democrat-controlled local government, are waving a big white flag of surrender.

That rhetoric may have helped Adams win a crowded, low-turnout Democratic mayoral primary in 2021, but there were problems. For one thing, his hyperbole was plainly counterfactual. As the writer Ross Barkan pointed out in New York magazine, crime was up slightly over 2019 levels, sure, but homicides were down 75 percent since the early 90s. Adams, his mind made up that crime was politically expedient for him, continued braying about it through the 2022 midterm election cycle. Who it was actually expedient for was New York Republicans, who were borderline giddy about the mayors gambit. Borrowing from his unequivocally false pronouncements about crime being rampant and uncontained, they campaigned hard on that same talking point and crushed New York congressional Democrats in Novembers election, putting up the GOPs best statewide overperformance in the country. Eric Adams drew up the blueprint for Republicans, and they followed it to a tiny but meaningful House majority.

Since then, Adams has been undone, in part, by his own tactic. The problem with creating the impression of a nonexistent problem is that it becomes impossible to solve that problem, and Adams favorability, for that and a whole host of other reasons, has plummeted.

No longer as eager to talk about crime, he has settled on a new boogeyman as the 2024 election cycle heats up: the migrant crisis. This issue will destroy New York City. Destroy New York City, he said of the famed city of immigrants in public comments made last week. Theyre destroying us  the city we knew, were about to lose.

The comments were headline-grabbing for how blunt they wereand for the fact that that sentiment was coming from an elected Democratbut Adams has in fact been preaching this exact message to anyone who would listen since at least April.

For years, Republicans have been desperately trying to sell the American public on a migrant crisis. In 2018, they spent the last days before the November midterms prophesying an incoming migrant wave, and expected it to save their House majority (it profoundly did not). Since 2022, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis have gone to extreme lengths to bus migrants from their home states to the bluer locales of New York, Los Angeles, and Massachusetts, hoping that those kind of stuntswhich may yet yield criminal chargeswould make the issue a permanent fixture in the news.

Abbotts office, in particular, has boasted that his state has bused more than 13,000 migrants to New York City in a little over a year. And yet, that got less press than Adams theatrics, which have, in the words of the New York Times, given the GOP the border crisis it wanted.

There are, in fact, a large number of migrants who have arrived in New York City over the past 12 months, more than 110,000 in total, according to the New York Times. Some have family ties to the city, while others are seeking asylum in a city with a reputation for welcoming immigrants, a legacy Adams has been eager to disavow. Many of these migrants are coming from places facing economic collapse, like Venezuela, as well as parts of western Africa; others have fled the war in Ukraine. They are indeed a strain on some of the citys resources and finances, especially as they wait to have their cases processed.

This is all to say: How best to address the migration issue is an important consideration. But Adams is not only bungling the response, hes actively choosing to politicize it in a way that helps Republicans. He chose to give a no-bid $432 million contract to house and provide medical treatment for migrants to a company called DocGo that has zero experience furnishing those sorts of services. The company was already under investigation by the state attorney generals office when he handed over the contract. In a stunt straight out of late-night television, he circulated fliers at the Mexican border saying New York is too expensive, hoping to discourage migrants from coming. The urgency of his rhetoric is nowhere in his actual actions.

And Republican groups of all makes and models are delighted with that. Speaker Kevin McCarthy quoted Adams in public remarks and praised him openly. Far-right New York City Councilwoman Vickie Paladino celebrated the mayors comments so heartily she nearly accused him of plagiarism, saying she met privately with Mayor Adams shortly before the event where he said migrants would destroy the city and that she had communicated these exact sentiments to him in no uncertain terms. The Daily Stormer, the prominent neo-Nazi blog, praised the mayors remarks as based and insightful.

The White House, in turn, has been eager to distance itself from the exceptionally unpopular mayor, cutting him out of a presidential advisory team in May after announcing that he would be consulting for the president just two months earlier.

But thats a relatively recent development, and for the majority of Adams term, Democratic leadership has championed him and worked to incorporate him in a leadership role in the national party. In May 2022, while Adams was pushing Republican-style talking points on crime to the press, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and thenDemocratic Congressional Campaign Committee chair Sean Patrick Maloney invited Adams to be a featured speaker at the DCCCs Chairmans Issues Conference and Weekend, according to reporting in Politico.

There, Adams directed an audience of 200 top Democrats to work on their storytelling chops. Incredibly, the meeting was very much about helping the Democrats get control of their messaging challenges, someone in attendance relayed to Politico. Of course, as election day got closer, it became clear that many of those messaging challenges were in fact being created by Adams himself. In a twist of incredible irony, Maloney, who ran not just that event but the whole DCCC, went on to lose his own reelection in a district Biden won by double digits, to a Republican opponent who went after him using the exact same tactic of fearmongering on crime that Adams had made commonplace in New York.

It turns out that its never really possible to beat Republicans on their own talking points. But it is possible to get more money from Republican donors with Republican talking points.

As the publication The City reported, Adams enjoyed major financial support, in the form of donations to super PACs supporting his candidacy, from hedge fund manager Kenneth Griffin, a top Ron DeSantis and Republican megadonor, and Daniel Loeb, a fellow billionaire financier and top Republican benefactor. Adams, of course, was a registered Republican himself from 1995 through 2002.

Finally, Adams has even more self-serving motivations for playing up the migrant crisis, beyond simply hurting his fellow (or not-so-fellow) Democrats. In the same breath as his migrants-are-destroying-New-York speech, the mayor announced a stunning citywide budget cut, blaming the decision on the migrants. To call that framing dishonest barely does it justice. Adams, perhaps owing to his Republican roots, has been clamoring to enact deep, devastating budget cuts since he arrived in office, despite the fact that the Independent Budget Office identified a massive budget surplus in 2023 and forecast another surplus in 2024. Adams has warred with the City Council over his plans to slash everything from preschool to library funding. His latest announcement of profound cuts is being justified by his offices eyebrow-raising projection that migrant services will cost $12 billion over three years; to that estimate, he is seeking 5 percent cuts from every city agency now, in January, and again in April. According to an analysis by the nonpartisan Fiscal Policy Institute, these cuts would far exceed the costs his office has predicted needing across three years to address the migrant crisis. Some of these are the same cuts Adams has been pursuing since before the migrant crisis became his top concern.

Meanwhile, national Democrats who invited the wolf into the henhouse can only hope that Adams has not yet again created a winning blueprint for Republicans to overperform in this coming election cycle. In New York, in particular, where the party has designs on five separate House seats and has already pledged tens of millions of dollars, the entire House majority hangs in the balance.

Adams, who will certainly face some sort of primary challenge, will remain immovable until least 2025 when his first term runs up. The electoral advantage for Democrats of having him out of office is inarguable, though its unlikely any of their money will be put behind his eventual primary opponent. For a mayor who has accomplished little, kneecapping Democrats in two critical election cycles may well prove to be his legacy.
Elon Musk said his father once called him "worthless" after he was beaten up at school.

Musk shared the experience in Walter Isaacson's new biography of Musk.

His father, Errol Musk, disputed this account in a statement to Insider.

Elon Musk and his father, Errol Musk, are giving conflicting characterizations about the elder Musk's reaction to an attack at school that the two agree was severe enough to have put Elon Musk in the hospital.

The story was recounted in Walter Isaacson's new biography of Elon Musk, who's now the world's richest person . Setting up the incident, Isaacson wrote that Musk was often bullied in school because he was "the youngest and smallest student in his class," adding that it didn't help that Musk lacked the empathy and desire to win friends.

Isaacson then went on to describe an altercation in which a student who was playing with his friends bumped into Musk, prompting Musk to push him back and the two to exchange words. The boy and his friends later jumped Musk at recess, Isaacson wrote, and pushed him down a flight of concrete steps.

"They sat on him and just kept beating the shit out of him and kicking him in the head," Musk's brother, Kimbal Musk , who had been sitting with him, told Isaacson.

"When they got finished, I couldn't even recognize his face," he said. "It was such a swollen ball of flesh that you could barely see his eyes."

Isaacson wrote that while the beating had even required Musk to get corrective surgery in his nose decades after it happened, "the scars were minor compared to the emotional ones inflicted by his father," who while speaking with Isaacson for the book appeared to justify the attack on his son.

Errol Musk told Isaacson: "The boy had just lost his father to suicide and Elon had called him stupid. Elon had a tendency to call people stupid. How could I possibly blame that child?"

But the elder Musk's account differs from his sons' about what happened when Elon Musk came home from the hospital. The Musk brothers said Errol Musk lashed out at his son. "I had to stand for an hour as he yelled at me and called me an idiot and told me that I was just worthless," Elon Musk said.

Kimbal Musk described it to Isaacson as the worst memory of his life. "My father just lost it, went ballistic, as he often did," he said. "He had zero compassion."

The brothers no longer speak with their father. Elon Musk told Rolling Stone in 2017 that his father is "a terrible person."

"No, I did not berate Elon," Errol Musk told Insider in an email. "That is nonsense. Elon was in the hospital for a few days. It was not possible to do that nor would I have done that. I was shocked by the incident."

He added that the main boy involved was "much smaller than Elon," and that they were both about 12 or 13 years old.

Isaacson wrote that Errol Musk moved Elon Musk from a public school to a private academy, Pretoria Boys High School, after the attack. Errol Musk reiterated this to Insider, saying he "went to the expense of buying another house in another city to be able to put Elon and Kimbal in there."

Elon and Kimbal Musk's mother , Maye, divorced Errol Musk in 1979. In an interview with Harper's Bazaar, she described it as an abusive marriage.

Ex-girlfriend Grimes told Isaacson that Elon Musk's experience with his father has had an impact on future relationships .

"He associates love with being mean or abusive," she told Isaacson, "It's about his father and what he grew up with."

His first wife, Justine Wilson, whom he was married to from 2000 to 2008, told Isaacson that Musk would sometimes call her a "moron" or "idiot," which she associated with Errol Musk.

Read the original article on Business Insider
If search teams dedicated to hunting down convicted murderer Danelo Cavalcante hadn't captured him when they did, he may have already committed more violence by Thursday, he told investigators.

The escaped prisoner was calm and collected while being questioned after his arrest early Wednesday, but he said he had an imminent plan to use the rifle he stole from a homeowner earlier this week to stage an armed carjacking and flee the area, Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Robert Clark told USA TODAY.

His end game: take a vehicle north to Canada or possibly try to get to Puerto Rico.

"That's why he was so intent on having that firearm," Clark said.

Instead, police were able to quietly close in on Cavalcante Wednesday after 8 a.m., capping a nearly two-week ordeal that drew hundreds of law enforcement officers and rattled residents. A plane using thermal imaging technology spotted Cavalcante's heat signal overnight, and by morning, crews were surrounding him.

They had the element of surprise, Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens said at a news conference after the arrest. Cavalcante did not realize he was surrounded until that had occurred.

Still, Cavalcante kept trying to escape, crawling through the underbrush with the rifle. It took the bite of a police dog to ultimately subdue him, Bivens said.

"He definitely was going to continue to try to evade law enforcement, Clark said. "He was going to run 'til the wheels fell off."

Law enforcement officers escort Danelo Cavalcante from a Pennsylvania State Police barracks in Avondale, Pa., on Wednesday.

Interrogation revealed escapee was motivated to outrun police

Cavalcante, 34, had just been sentenced to life in prison without parole and was being held at Chester County Prison when he escaped Aug. 31 by crab-walking up two walls from an exercise yard, pushing through razor wire and running across a roof. He was set to be transferred to a state correctional facility soon, officials have said.

He had recently been convicted of stabbing his ex-girlfriend to death in front of her two young children in 2021 and was wanted for another murder in his home country of Brazil.

He was desperate  and showed no signs of slowing down on his run from law enforcement, Clark said.

"He said that he knew we had to pay for what he had done. However, he wasn't willing to pay for it with his life," Clark said.

Cavalcante was taken to state police barracks in Avondale to be questioned Wednesday morning. He was hungry and was given food and medical attention, Clark said, and was cooperative with investigators questioning him.

"He was willing to talk," Clark said. "There was really no attitude, there was no resistance to the questions. He answered everything to the best of his ability."

Cavalcante survived off watermelons, stolen supplies

Cavalcante told investigators he took measures to avoid capture as much as he could. He only moved around under the cover of nightfall. He hunkered down among thick vegetation to stay out of sight. He traveled along tree lines. When he saw lots of police activity nearby and helicopters overhead, he would hunker down for long periods of time.

He even buried his own fecal matter so investigators couldn't detect him, Clark said.

He survived by eating watermelons he said he found growing in the brush and drinking stream water, he told investigators. He broke into houses to recover supplies. In one house, he stole some fruit. From another, a pair of boots. Early on in the escape, he obtained a backpack that had a single razor in it, which he used to shave his face.

"This was just a desperate man. No resources. He didn't have any communication devices on him. He said nobody on the outside was helping him," Clark said.

On a few occasions over the last two weeks, Cavalcante claimed searchers and dogs were within 8-10 yards of "stepping on him," Clark said.

With such a large search area, spanning neighborhoods and rural areas with thick vegetation, Clark said it was very difficult to track the escapee.

"It's the proverbial finding the needle in the haystack, and we found the needle a few times, it's just we couldn't dial in on it," Clark said.

Meet Yoda, the dog who helped take down the fugitive

Yoda, the 4-year-old Belgian Malinois police K-9 that helped take down fugitive Danelo Cavalcante during the two-week long manhunt after he escaped from prison.

It was 4-year-old Yoda, a Belgian Malinois, who helped take Cavalcante down once and for all.

Yoda is a search dog and part of a Border Patrol Tactical Unit, called BORTAC. Yoda was deployed on Cavalcante after he didn't comply with verbal commands, Clark said. As Cavalcante tried crawling away, the dog bit him on the scalp.

He was also bitten in a lower extremity, Clark said, as dogs are trained to bite and hold onto subjects. That's when Cavalcante finally began to submit.

Footage showed Cavalcante with blood on his face, wearing long pants, boots and a Philadelphia Eagles sweatshirt during his arrest.

Search dogs were an integral part of the two-week manhunt, slogging through at times difficult conditions. Heat indexes on some days were over 100 degrees, and one dog was hospitalized earlier in the search because of heat illness but recovered.

Yoda was not hurt during the apprehension and is being hailed as a hero and a good boy.

'We can put his all behind us:' Pennsylvania communities relieved after Danelo Cavalcante captured

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Danelo Cavalcante in custody with help of Yoda the dog: What we know
The European Commission is considering imposing punitive tariffs to protect European Union automakers against cheaper Chinese electric vehicle imports, which the agency says benefits from state subsidies.

"Global markets are now flooded with cheaper electric cars," said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during her annual address to the EU's parliament. "And their price is kept artificially low by huge state subsidies."

The current standard EU rate for cars is 10%. The Commission will decide over the next 13 months whether to impose tariffs above that standard, which could spark a trade war with China.

The anti-subsidy investigation also includes non-Chinese brands that are made in China, like Tesla, Renault and BMW.

The investigation into the "flood" of Chinese EV companies into Europe comes just a week after the IAA Mobility 2023 conference in Munich. Chinese EV companies -- from heavyweights like BYD to startups like XPeng -- did indeed come in droves to the event, doubling their numbers from last year. The conference organizers said about 41% of presenters came from Asia.

At the event, European automakers hastened to show off lower-cost, high-tech EVs in an attempt to keep up with their Asian counterparts.

While Chinese automakers don't yet have much market share in Europe, that could easily change as they make the push beyond China's borders. Chinese EV makers are feeling the urgency to expand overseas, as consumer demand at home weakens amid an economic slowdown and Tesla's aggressive price cuts boost domestic competition.

China's auto exports grew 31% in August, according to China Passenger Car Association data. China's share of EVs sold in the EU -- which are on average about 20% cheaper than EU-made models -- has risen to 8% and could hit 15% in 2025, said the European Commission.

That projection is backed up by recent announcements.

XPeng said at IAA that it would bring its premium SUV, the G6, to Europe next year to join other models it's already selling in Norway, Sweden, Denmark and the Netherlands. At the event, BYD unveiled a new lineup of cars for the European market. And earlier this year, Nio outlined plans to launch a fresh brand of vehicles for the European market in 2024 that will be made at a new factory in China.

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce to the EU objected to the investigation, saying that China's competitive advantage was not due to subsidies, and that the bloc should look at Chinese EVs objectively.

Like the U.S., the EU wants to reduce its reliance on China, particularly for materials and products needed to transition to electric. Beijing has also been growing closer with Moscow after Russia's invasion with Ukraine, which has put some EU policymakers on edge.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen criticized Chinese automakers in her State of the Union speech, announcing an anti-subsidy probe into imports of Chinese vehicles to EU countries.

Calls for tariffs on Chinese EVs in the EU had been growing for months, as more Chinese brands have begun sales on the continent amid a sharp turn to EVs in western and northern Europe.

In response to the planned probe, China's Ministry of Commerce has called the probe a protectionist act.

The European Union will launch an anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese EVs on sale in the EU, probing alleged unfair competition from Chinese automakers following the debuts of several new electric models in Europe.

Over the past few years a number of Chinese automakers have launched sales in the EU, including BYD, Xpeng, and Nioand more are on the way.

While Chinese-owned automakers like MG and Volvo have been present in the EU for years since their acquisitions, the EV era kicked the process into high gear as European automakers had been slow to roll out their own electric models when demand surged in 2020.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined the issue in a State of the Union address this week.

"It is a crucial industry for the clean economy, with a huge potential for Europe," von der Leyen said of the EV sector.

"But global markets are now flooded with cheaper Chinese electric cars."

"And their price is kept artificially low by huge state subsidies."

"This is distorting our market."

"And as we do not accept this from the inside, we do not accept this from the outside."

Richard Bord - Getty Images

The issue is not anything new per se in the discourse of EU politics, with a number of countries including France having brought up lower-priced Chinese electric vehicles appearing on sale over the past several years, just as several European manufacturers have faced significant headwinds early on in the pandemic.

These have included issues with raw materials, labor, and the supply of electronic chips for cars, with 2022 having also delivered an entirely new energy landscape in the wake of Russian military action in Ukraine, which has spiked energy prices and has largely ended the imports of various metals into the EU.

Several European automakers have also experienced periods of production halts due to disruptions in the work of component suppliers in Ukraineall phenomena from which China has been largely insulated.

"We have not forgotten how China's unfair trade practices affected our solar industry," von der Leyen said earlier in her address.

"Many young businesses were pushed out by heavily subsidized Chinese competitors."

"Pioneering companies had to file for bankruptcy."

NurPhoto - Getty Images

With the implicit threat of tariffs against Chinese-made EVs, the situation is complicated by the fact that many European automakers themselves have production facilities in China, operated as joint ventures with Chinese automakers, that could face retaliatory economic measures.

European automakers in China have already seen a pushback of sorts in the past few years due to competition from domestic brands in the same marketan entirely new situation that would have been unthinkable just 15 years prior. The VW Group in particular, present in China since 1984, has seen its longtime dominance of the passenger car sphere fade as new Chinese brands have started to win over consumers in what is now the world's largest automotive market.

In the day since the announcement of an EU investigation, China's Ministry of Commerce labeled the probe as a "naked protectionist act," promising to safeguard the interests and rights of Chinese manufacturers.

While a number of vehicles that are produced in China are sold in the US, including ones from the Buick and Polestar brands, Chinese automakers have yet to launch sales under their own brands stateside after over a decade of announcing plans to do so.

Are sales of EVs from Chinese brands in the US inevitable, or will market factors or other issues eventually prevent their entry stateside? Let us know what you think.
(Reuters) -The European regulator's advisory panel on Thursday recommended authorising an updated COVID-19 vaccine from Moderna, putting it on track to become the second shot to be used in the EU countries' vaccination campaign this autumn.

The updated shot, branded Spikevax, to target the dominant XBB.1.5 variant of Omicron was recommended for use in adults and children aged 6 months and above.

Earlier this month, the European Commission authorised an updated COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer and its German partner BioNtech for the same population.

The European Medicines Agency's (EMA) advisory panel recommended that everyone above 5 years of age should receive the shot, irrespective of their COVID vaccination history.

For children 6 months to 4 years of age, the panel recommended they receive one or two doses of the updated Moderna shot based on whether they have completed a primary vaccination course or were previously infected.

The updated shots from both Moderna and Pfizer have been authorized for use in the United States and pharmacy chains CVS Health and Walgreens Boots Alliance have said they expect the shots to be available in their stores as early as this week.

(Reporting by Leroy Leo and Bhanvi Satija in Bengaluru; Editing by Shinjini Ganguli)
The European Union has ceased sanctions against three Russian businessmen  Grigory Berezkin, Farkhad Akhmedov, and Alexander Shulgin.

This was reported by the EU's Official Journal on Sept. 14. The bloc also removed from the sanctions list Georgy Shuvaev, a Russian colonel purportedly killed in Ukraine last year.

Berezkin is the chairman of one of Russia's largest holding companies, ESN Group, whose assets include the RBC media holding. He's reportedly close to Russian President Vladimir Putin .

Azerbaijan-born Akhmedov is a former senator and co-owner of the Russian natural gas-producing company Nortgas.

Read also: Ukraine imposes sanctions on petty pro-Russian politicians, yet ignores most high-profile ones

Shulgin previously headed Ozon, a Russian e-commerce firm, and Russia's biggest tech company, Yandex. He left Ozon in April 2022 after being sanctioned by the EU and Australia.

Western countries have imposed sanctions against multiple Russian oligarchs who were deemed involved in Moscow's military aggression against Ukraine. According to Reuters, the EU has sanctioned around 1,600 individuals and more than 200 entities since Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014.

The EU needs the consensus of all 27 member states to impose sanctions, which are renewed every six months.

On Aug. 26, the Financial Times reported that Arkady Volozh, tech billionaire and co-founder of Russia's popular search engine Yandex, had made a formal request for the EU to lift its sanctions against him. Earlier, Volozh publicly spoke out against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, calling it "barbaric."

Read also: US announces new sanctions targeting Russias military-linked elites, industrial base

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Photo: Cambridgeshire Constabulary. Kevin Brock, of Cambridge, has been sentenced to 32 years in prison.

Warning: This story contains graphic details and may be distressing to some readers.

A man living in the United Kingdom used TikTok and Snapchat to lure and exploit children, including a Surrey, B.C. girl, according to police.

Surrey RCMP say a 29-year-old man was recently convicted in the U.K. on a number of sexual-related charges committed against young girls.

Kevin Brock was arrested earlier in the year and sentenced to 32 years in prison on Aug. 7.

Investigators searched his house and a digital forensic examination of his devices revealed he contacted hundreds of underage females over TikTok and Snapchat. The examination also showed child sexual abuse materials (CSAM).

Cambridgeshire Constabulary asked Surrey RCMP to assist with identifying one of the child victims.

"Surrey ICE members conducted further investigation into the CSAM and identified the 12-year-old victim, says Sgt. Tammy Lobb.

Brock was charged with more than two dozen offences related to online grooming and inciting young female children to engage in sexual activity, including offences to the Surrey child.

According to the Cambridgeshire Constabulary, Brock filmed himself sexually assaulting a young girl and he lured the girls into sending him sexual images and videos of themselves by promising them more social media followers.

Brock was charged with hands-on offences  sexual interference on a person under the age of 16, sexual assault on a person under age 16 and invitation to sexual touching  against two children in the Cambridgeshire area.

Staff Sgt. Rochelle Kokkoris says online sexual exploitation is a borderless crime.

"Surrey RCMP is committed to working with international law enforcement partners to investigate these crimes and to help ensure young people are protected online, says Kokkoris.

Parents are encouraged to take steps to keep children safe online such as having computers and devices in a busy family area, monitoring activity and recognizing that some apps are not suitable for children.
Impeaching President Joe Biden on phony charges built on falsified evidence is generally understood, by both the Beltway press and even by Republican leadership, to be bad news for the GOP's political future. And yet, it also seems true that House Republicans, under the, uh, "leadership" of Speaker Kevin McCarthy, are barreling towards impeachment, even as Republican members in competitive districts beg him not to go there. McCarthy has gone as far as to circumvent his own party members who would stop him, by directly ordering an impeachment inquiry without a congressional vote, violating his own previous stance and Justice Department directives.

The supposed accusations against Biden aren't really relevant, as everyone involved knows it's made-up nonsense. (Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., admitted as much to the New York Times in March.) It's pure political theater, unmoored from facts. But usually one expects political theater to benefit its producers politically. And yet, like a sentient moth flying knowingly into the flame, McCarthy is forging ahead anyway.

No doubt part of the reason why is because Donald Trump is pressuring McCarthy, and McCarthy lives to please his orange master. He's also trying to appease the loudest MAGA members of his caucus, who have threatened to make McCarthy's life hell if he doesn't give them this. But at least one of the biggest impeachment cheerleaders in the GOP caucus, Rep. Lauren Boebert of Colorado, seems to understand that a kangaroo impeachment is not good for her party's electoral futures, even as she wants it very badly.

NEW: Rep. Lauren Boebert is one of Washingtons loudest proponents of impeaching President Joe Biden.



On a recent day in her rural CO district, though, she rarely talked about it.



I have these dual aspects of national and home, she told me.https://t.co/vf2ZS6oWmU  Olivia Beavers (@Olivia_Beavers) September 13, 2023

We need your help to stay independent

Subscribe today to support Salon's progressive journalism

"Boebert is one of Washington's loudest proponents of impeaching Joe Biden," Olivia Beavers of Politico writes. But when speaking to her own constituents, Boebert projects "a different version of herself," mostly avoiding the topic of impeachment and talking up boring issues like water policy.

Boebert retains her signature shamelessness, telling Beavers, "I have these dual aspects of national and home."

For a few of the most obnoxious trolls in the House  the ones who drag McCarthy around by the nose  this is their moment.

Boebert nearly lost re-election in what used to be a deep-red district in Colorado, mostly due to the perception she's too busy being a MAGA celebrity to look after the needs of her constituents. Her two-faced approach is an attempt to navigate her competing desires. Fame and fortune in the right-wing media ecosystem requires being a bomb-throwing conspiracy theorist. Winning competitive elections, however, means playing the opposite role, of a sober-minded public servant.

Boebert would probably have her seat for decades if she could give up trolling for a life of quietly voting for tax cuts and against environmental regulations. But she also wants to leverage her youth and good looks into a more lucrative career of "triggering" the liberals and raking in donations from Newsmax viewers. What's good for the right-wing bank account, it turns out, may not be so great for getting votes  a conundrum Republicans didn't consider when they dismantled the campaign finance regulatory system.

Related

Marjorie Taylor Greene and Lauren Boebert were doomed to feud  there can only be one MAGA queen

We can see how much more lucrative it is to be a MAGA loudmouth than a standard Republican by comparing Boebert's fundraising to the Colorado Republican from her neighboring district, Rep. Ken Buck. Buck, notably, has spoken out against impeachment, repeatedly pointing out there's no facts or evidence to support it. But his unwillingness to be a bug-eyed lunatic has hurt his fundraising numbers. He raised about $1.6 million for his 2022 re-election campaign, compared to the nearly $8 million Boebert raised in the same time period. Of course, he also won with more than 60% of the vote, whereas she barely squeaked in.

Candidates technically aren't supposed to use campaign funds to line their own pockets, though politicians like Boebert find ways to get their hands in the cookie jar anyway. (We can also see from the private jet trips and fancy dinners enjoyed by Donald Trump and Gov. Ron DeSantis, R-Fla., that big name candidates get to enjoy expensive luxuries on the donor dime.) But where the big bucks lie is in the post-elected office career. Making a name for yourself as a right-wing superstar while in elected office can means becoming very rich indeed in your post-retirement career, mainly by selling snake oil to the same people gullible enough to vote for you in the first place.

Look, for instance, at the life of Newt Gingrich. He was the Republican Speaker of the House in the 90s, and grabbed fistfuls of right-wing fame by being a first-rate jackass, really laying out the model for future con artists like Boebert and, of course, Trump. Gingrich's career of camera-hogging and trolling culminated in the impeachment of President Bill Clinton, on irrelevant and trumped-up charges related to Clinton's ill-advised but not illegal adultery with a White House employee.

Want more Amanda Marcotte on politics? Subscribe to her newsletter Standing Room Only.

Politically, this was a big mistake for Gingrich. He ended up driving up Clinton's approval ratings while hurting his own reputation. Republicans blamed Gingrich for their heavy electoral losses in 1998, and he was forced out of Congress. But Gingrich fell from grace into a huge bucket of money. When he was first elected in 1979, he was flat broke. His theatrical right-wing pandering got him book deals and speaking fees so that he left Congress making a six-digit salary and sitting on $600,000 of assets.

But it was after Congress that Gingrich became an incredibly wealthy man. By 2011, he had amassed $100 million worth of businesses, largely geared around influence peddling and separating right-wing fools from their money. It's not even a particularly sophisticated grift. For instance, Gingrich runs a commonplace scam on the right: Creating an email list and then spamming subscribers with ads promising "miracle" cancer cures. As Rachel Maddow of MSNBC reported, another Gingrich racket is to create fake "awards" for business owners, promising them a fancy celebration dinner, so long as they pony up thousands of dollars to receive their "award."

It's a form of affinity fraud, which is where a con artist will exploit a shared identity with their victim  such as religious affiliation  to gain their trust, before shaking them down for cash. It's one reason that Republicans enjoy a great deal of turnover in the ranks of their elected officials, while Democrats stay in office until they're about to fall over dead. For most Democrats, it doesn't get better for them, professionally, than being an elected official. But if a Republican used elected office to get famous with the Fox News audience, they can make a mint once they leave office by convincing their followers to waste their retirement savings on useless supplements and meaningless trophies.

Related

Lauren Boebert's divorce exposes the dark little secret of red state life

All of which is a major reason why Biden is likely getting impeached, despite no one actually thinking he did anything wrong. Many Republicans who have no name recognition outside of their districts risk getting screwed by this, as fed-up voters kick them out of office. But for a few of the most obnoxious trolls in the House  the ones who drag McCarthy around by the nose  this is their moment. It's a chance to get on TV more, get seen "triggering" the liberals, and get more social media shares. They will become even bigger celebrities in the eyes of people who have open wallets and no critical thinking skills. Losing a seat in Congress stings a lot less when you're walking right into a media ecosystem optimized to separate fools from their money. And for those from deep-red districts, it's a surefire way to keep the donations flowing, especially when more traditional donors are stingy about wasting money on safe seats.

Boebert is in a precarious situation. She has made herself one of the most famous House Republicans by sheer bellicosity, but she keeps getting outshone by the even more demented congresswoman from Georgia, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. The two even nearly came to blows in trying to put forward go-nowhere fake impeachment articles against Biden. They understand that the well of money and attention from MAGA morons may be deep, but it isn't unlimited. They're in direct competition for the audience of marks.

Boebert needs more time to build up her name and reputation, and if she loses in 2024, the odds are high she'll be forgotten completely. That's why she's trying to have it both ways: Be the MAGA bullhorn that gets the cash, while also pretending to be the workhorse representative who gets votes. It's a tightrope she may not be able to stay on if this phony impeachment gets more momentum.
Tahdig is one of those special foods thats not only outrageously tasty but also evokes warmth and care in every bite. Translating to bottom of the pot in Farsi, tahdig is a popular Persian dish of golden crispy rice that requires you to flip your pot over so you can enjoy the browned rice at the bottom of the pan. (Check out an excellent tahdig recipe here.)

We spoke with chef Nasim Alikhani, the James Beard Award nominee behind Brooklyns renowned Persian restaurant Sofreh, about her tips and tricks for pulling off the perfect tahdig.

Tahdig is flipped onto a platter.

Tahdig is flipped onto a platter.

While flipping your tahdig over may feel intimidating, try not to worry: Practicing and failing is part of the process. Ive flipped thousands of tahdigs in my life and not all were good, Alikhani said. Try to see it as a learning curve and a process, and dont get discouraged if the outcome is [initially] not what you want. The process is more interesting than the final outcome.

Theyre wise words for tahdig and for life. Read on for more of Alikhanis advice.



HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change. The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted.



A nonstick 6-quart pot with wide base

Misen

A nonstick 6-quart pot with wide base

Alikhani recommended any wide, nonstick pot for making tahdig, preferably with a tight-fitting lid for easier flipping. We think this Misen nonstick pot is an excellent option. Its wide diameter will help your rice get adequately crispy at the bottom, and its two handles will help give you leverage to flip your dish. Misen claims the handles will stay cool during stove-top cooking.



Promising review: "This pan is wonderful. It is so versatile to use for many different types of dishes and cooking styles. It is also extremely easy to clean making even the messiest dishes a snap to clean up."  ANN G.

$68 at Misen (originally $105)

A nonstick ceramic pot

Amazon

A nonstick ceramic pot

Alikhani suggests starting out with an affordable pot. If you're looking for one with a more stout shape, we like this this budget-friendly nonstick pot that we found on Amazon. Its size will help prevent your tahdig from breaking when you flip it, and it promises to heat up fast and clean up easy thanks to the diamond-infused ceramic material. Plus, it's dishwasher-safe and free of PFAS, PFOA, lead and cadmium.



This version is 2 quarts, making it a great option for cooking tahdig at home. It also comes in a 1 quart and 2 quart set if you're looking for more versatility, or a 5 quart jumbo pan if you're cooking for more people.



Promising review: "We love rice. In the remote past, I owned a rice cooker that turned out perfect rice every time. When I had to replace it I couldn't find that stellar performance anywhere. I began cooking small batches in a saucepan but the varying times and sticking to the pan put me off that, too. I decreased my rice cooking frequency. I recently discarded some old glass saucepans and swore I'd find a good, safe nonstick one. The reviews for this Blue Diamond were great and the price was right. My first use was a small batch of rice. It was perfect! No sticking, no need to soak the pan, no leaking of fluid from a poorly fitted lid. I've used the pan for veggies and sauces and ramen and even fried an egg in it once."  Dr. Essie W. Bruel

$19.95 at Amazon

A ceramic flipping platter

Our Place

A ceramic flipping platter

We think the Our Place flipping platter is a great option if you need some more help flipping the dish and don't mind spending a little extra money for ease of use. The platter is made specifically for dishes like tahdig, maqluba, concon, Espanola and upside-down cakes that require being flipped over, and is designed to fit securely in Our Place's signature pots and pans.



It measures 12.6 inches in diameter and comes with helpful handles to make giving your dish a 180 as foolproof as possible. I also love the designs on the platters, which were created in collaboration with local artists and feature beautifully illustrated phrases in Persian, Korean and Arabic in order to pay homage to the practice of flipping dishes across many cultures. It's also available in two colors and also doubles as an elegant serving dish!



Promising review: "What I have been searching for for years. I regularly flip my rice for the amazing tahdig and have always struggled to find a flat dishpan that has sides to help with the flipping action. Since purchasing this I have used it multiple times to flip rice and display it for dinner. I just love it so much. The little Nooshe Joon inscription is so beautiful and unique, I had no idea it was possible to find something that was so close to my heritage and heart. It is sturdy and long lasting. HIGHLY RECOMMEND."  Roxana Z.

$50 at Our Place

Olive oil

Amazon

Olive oil

One thing you shouldn't skimp on while making tahdig? Olive oil. "You need fat or oil in the bottom [of your pot]," Alikhani said. "Some people add butter, but butter burns fast, so I don't recommend it. A good amount of olive oil guarantees crispiness without burning. Tahdig is a delicacy."



We like this option for olive oil that we sourced on Amazon. It's cold-pressed with a mild flavor that lends well to cooking rice dishes like tahdig, and is beloved by Amazon reviewers with an impressive 4.8 out of 5-star rating. An excellent choice for any budget, this is available in four sizes.



Promising review: "I have purchasing and cooking with Pompeian Extra-Light-Tasting Olive Oil for quite some time now, and find it to be one of the very best olive oils that money can buy. As the name indicates, it has a light flavor and therefore has myriad uses. Its light flavor makes it possible to use it in cakes as well as salads and breads. It stays fresh for quite some time. (If I buy more than I am going to use for quite some time, I find that keeping it in the refrigerator does extend its life significantly.) The best thing about it, though, is its perfectly delicate flavor. It does not overpower seasoning and herbs with which one might mix it for a bread-dipping sauce. Nor does the flavor interfere with the flavors of cakes such as poppy seed, yellow, or maple. This is truly a GREAT olive oil."  Slim2u

$5.68+ at Amazon

Starchy rice

Amazon

Starchy rice

Another staple for great tahdig? "High starch content rice, such as jasmine or good quality basmati. It will produce better crispy rice," Alikhani said. She also noted that while high-starch rice browns beautifully, it can also be prone to burning, so you might want to consider adding sliced potatoes or sweet potatoes to the bottom of your rice. It'll make your dish sweeter and help prevent your rice from burning too quickly.



We like this aromatic long grain jasmine rice option from Amazon. It has a delicate fragrance that'll add to your tahdig dish and promises a fluffy texture. Plus, it's naturally gluten-free and free from additives. It's also available in three other sizes. (If you're more inclined towards basmati rice, no worries. We like this bestselling basmati option from Amazon that reviewers call "the best rice on the market.")



Promising review: "Perfection in a rice! Our go-to favorite..we love the way it cooks up & the taste cannot be beat. We have tried many brands over the years..this is our family favorite..never-fail rice! It has never let us down & makes the very best rice pudding & fried rice! It stands out above all others we have tried."  Connie Jay Sanford

$6.92 at Amazon

Alikhani's Persian cuisine cookbook

Bookshop

Alikhani's Persian cuisine cookbook

If you want more help nailing the perfect tahdig or want to explore more mouthwatering Persian dishes, Alikhani's essential cookbook "Sofreh" is an essential guide. It contains over 120 recipes ranging from traditional Iranian dishes to her modern favorites that she prepares at her popular Brooklyn-based restaurant, Sofreh. This comprehensive cookbook would be an excellent gift for cooking lovers. It's also available as a Kindle e-book.



Promising review: "One of the most beautiful written cookbooks, almost like a memoir that takes you into Nasim's life, love, family and heartfelt connection to Iran and its history and people. It will make you appreciate her culture and the people. Her recipes are approachable and the flavors of Persian food, which I love are in one collection from her Sofreh food to sublime stews. Her restaurant is amazing, and now you can have it at home. Amazing!"  @savvycooker

$25.99 at Amazon (originally $40)

$40 at Barnes & Noble

$37.20 at Bookshop (originally $40)

Related...
The High Anti-Corruption Court of Ukraine issued an arrest warrant against former Health Minister Maksym Stepanov , who is suspected of embezzling state funds, the court announced on Sept. 13.

The court said in a statement that the ex-minister is currently abroad, without specifying his exact location.

Stepanov led the ministry between March 2020 and May 2021, when he was dismissed reportedly due to poor vaccination uptake amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. Prior to this, he served as governor of Odesa Oblast.

From 2011 to 2016 he was the head of a state-owned factory that produces official documents and ID cards.

Investigators believe that in this role he was responsible for the embezzlement of Hr 450 million ($12.2 million).

Read also: Oligarch Kolomoisky charged with embezzling $250 million from PrivatBank

The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) exposed the corruption scheme in July 2023.

They worked with investigators from Estonia and France to uncover the crime, revealing that Stepanov set up an intermediary company registered in Estonia to purchase materials for the state-owned enterprise he directed.

Two people who helped Stepanov manage the intermediary company are Estonian citizens, and thus the Estonian authorities are taking measures against them, Hromadske reported.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Former Republican National Committee spokesperson Tim Miller suggested the departure of Republicans like Sen. Mitt Romney (Utah) from politics paves the way for more extremists to take up the mantle.

The more these people leave, theyre going to be replaced by uglier and uglier folks, Miller, a writer for The Bulwark, told MSNBCs Chris Hayes on Wednesday.

Romney was serious about governing, Miller said, noting that the senator worked with Democrats on a number of issues, such as infrastructure, gun reform and the Electoral Count Reform Act.

This is, again, what should be the minimum of what we want from our legislators, but there are just so few of them left on the Republican side, he said.

Romney announced Wednesday that he would not seek reelection in 2024, marking a likely end to his two-decade political career.

His departure means the loss of a unique voice from the Senate of a Republican willing to call out and break ranks with his own party, which is still firmly under the grasp of Donald Trump .

He was the only Republican senator to vote to remove Trump for abuse of power in the former presidents first impeachment trial. He also voted to convict following Trumps second impeachment for inciting the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.

Republicans in Congress have moved further to the right ideologically in recent years and an alarming number of Trump-obsessed conspiracy theorists and extremists have been elected at various levels of government around the country.

See the segment below:

Related...
A top Republican election attorney has joined a growing coalition of individuals and organizations investigating whether former President Donald Trump can be disqualified from the ballot due to his involvement in inciting the violent attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021.

Jason Torchinsky, a partner at the Virginia-based law firm Holtzman Vogel, has been involved in discussions about the idea of disqualifying Trump with various individuals, including former elected Republican lawmakers, fellow election attorneys and a retired federal judge who has played a significant role in scrutinizing Trump's eligibility. The effort to block Trump has been a hot-button issue for some time. Several groups have filed lawsuits trying to block the former president from the 2024 presidential ballot, citing a provision in the 14th Amendment of the Constitution to argue that Trump is disqualified from holding public office because of his role in the January 6 attack on the Capitol.

Now that one of the most prominent GOP election lawyers has joined the discussion, it makes the lawsuits "appear to be more politically neutral and much less a partisan effort by Democrats to keep Trump from running," Bennett Gershman, a former New York prosecutor and law professor at Pace University, told Salon.

We need your help to stay independent

Subscribe today to support Salon's progressive journalism

Torchinsky also has ties to three of Trump's GOP primary opponents, doing "legal work for the campaigns of former New Jersey governor Chris Christie and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, as well as for Never Back Down, the political action committee promoting the presidential campaign of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis," The Washington Post reported. In this case, Torchinsky is researching the issue for Jacob Harriman, the founder of a nonpartisan service organization called More Perfect Union, Harriman told The Post.

"The 14th amendment disqualifies any person from holding any government office  federal or state  if they engaged in an insurrection or rebellion against the United States or a state or assisted others who engaged in such conduct."

Most recently, a group of voters sued to kick Trump off the ballot in Minnesota and another filed a lawsuit in Colorado, marking the first high-profile legal case attempting to use the 14th Amendment to disrupt Trump's presidential campaign.

"The 14th amendment disqualifies any person from holding any government office  federal or state  if they engaged in an insurrection or rebellion against the United States or a state or assisted others who engaged in such conduct," Gershman said. "Any person holding an official office, or who seeks such office, is disqualified."

Now that these cases have been filed, it would be up to the court to "determine the merits of the complaint," Gershman added.

Legal challenges have also been filed in New Hampshire and Wisconsin, among other states, and election officials anticipate the possibility of more suits as a growing number of liberal and conservative legal scholars express support for this legal strategy.

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

Last month, two conservative law professors with ties to the right-wing Federalist Society published an article in the University of Pennsylvania Law Review arguing that Trump doesn't qualify to be president. Professors William Baude of the University of Chicago and Michael Stokes Paulsen of the University of St. Thomas studied the question for more than a year and arrived to the conclusion that Trump "cannot be president  cannot run for president, cannot become president, cannot hold office  unless two-thirds of Congress decides to grant him amnesty for his conduct on Jan. 6," The New York Times reported.

The Trump campaign on Tuesday sent a letter to New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan urging him not to remove Trump from the ballot for the GOP's first presidential primary.

"There is no legal basis for these claims to hold up in any legitimate court of law," the letter states. "The opinions of those perpetuating this fraud against the will of the people are nothing more than a blatant attempt to affront democracy and disenfranchise all voters and the former President."

The effort to disqualify Trump from seeking public office further complicates his 2024 campaign, as he is already facing four criminal prosecutions and multiple civil claims. These legal challenges include accusations of election interference, mishandling classified documents and falsifying business records linked to hush money payments to Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign.

"Such lawsuits parallel the numerous convictions of the Jan. 6th defendants, especially those convicted of participating in an insurrection, such as convictions of several defendants for seditious conspiracy," Gershman said. "The lawsuit has very little direct connection to the indictments of Trump in DC and Georgia and even if a court disqualified Trump after finding that he participated in the Jan. 6 insurrection, that finding could not be used as evidence in the upcoming trials as it would certainly be seen as irrelevant to those charges."

Read more

about the GOP-led effort to disqualify Trump
By Yew Lun Tian

BEIJING/HANOI (Reuters) - Chinese defence minister Li Shangfu abruptly pulled out of a meeting with Vietnamese defence leaders last week, three officials with direct knowledge of the matter said, amid questions about his more than two-weeks-long absence from public view.

Li, 65, was due to attend an annual gathering on defence cooperation hosted by Vietnam on its border with China on Sept. 7-8 but the meeting was postponed after Beijing told Hanoi days before the event that the minister had a "health condition," two Vietnamese officials said.

The sudden postponement of the meeting and the reasons cited by China are being reported by Reuters for the first time.

China's State Council Information Office, as well as its defence and foreign ministries did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the Vietnam event. The Vietnamese embassy in Beijing couldn't immediately be reached for comment Thursday evening.

The abrupt cancellation of Li's trip follows China's unexplained replacement of Foreign Minister Qin Gang in July after a prolonged absence from public view and a shake-up of the leadership of the People's Liberation Army's elite Rocket Force in recent months, moves that have raised questions about the Chinese leadership's decision-making.

Qin's meteoric ascent through the ranks of the Communist Party was partly attributed to his closeness to President Xi Jinping, making his removal after just seven months on the job even more unexpected. Chinese officials initially said Qin's absence from public view was due to health reasons.

Li was appointed to his post in March. He is watched closely by diplomats and other observers because, like Qin, he is also one of China's five State Councillors, a cabinet position that ranks higher than a regular minister.

A U.S. official, on condition of anonymity, said Washington was aware of Li's cancelled meetings with the Vietnamese. U.S. President Joe Biden visited Hanoi last week, where the two sides inked a historic upgrade of their partnership.

Li's prolonged absence from public view has drawn some comment. U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel posted on X, formerly Twitter, on Sept. 8: "First, Foreign Minister Qin Gang goes missing, then the Rocket Force commanders go missing, and now Defense Minister Li Shangfu hasn't been seen in public for two weeks. Who's going to win this unemployment race? China's youth or Xi's cabinet?"

Asked about Emanuel's post this week, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman told reporters she was "not aware of the situation."

Li was last seen in Beijing on Aug. 29 delivering a key-note address at a security forum with African nations. Before that he held high-level meetings during a trip to Russia and Belarus.

China's defence minister is mainly responsible for defence diplomacy and does not command combat forces. He has a less public profile than the foreign minister, who frequently appears in state media.

"Li's disappearance, following so shortly after Qin, speaks to how mysterious Chinese elite politics can be to the outside world," said Alfred Wu, associate professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy in Singapore.

"China under Xi simply does not feel a need to explain itself to the world."

Li was sanctioned by the U.S. in 2018 for buying weapons from Russia's largest arms exporter, Rosoboronexport.

Chinese officials have repeatedly said they want those sanctions dropped to facilitate better discussions between the two sides' militaries. U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin attempted talks with Li during a defence conference in Singapore in June, but did not get beyond a handshake.

In 2016, Li was named deputy commander of the military's then-new Strategic Support Force - an elite body tasked with accelerating the development of space and cyber warfare capabilities. He then headed the military's procurement unit from 2017 until he became defence minister.

In a rare notice in July, the unit said it was looking to "clean-up" its bidding process and invited the public to report irregularities dating back to 2017. There has been no update on possible findings.

(Reporting by Yew Lun Tian in Beijing and Hanoi Newsroom; Writing by Antoni Slodkowski and John Geddie; Editing by Katerina Ang)
FILE PHOTO: U.S. President Biden convenes a meeting of his Cancer Cabinet at the White House in Washington

By Humeyra Pamuk and Daphne Psaledakis

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Biden administration on Thursday imposed sanctions on five Turkish companies and a Turkish national, accusing them of helping Russia evade sanctions and supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine.

The designations, first reported by Reuters, target shipping and trade companies accused of helping repair sanctioned vessels tied to Russia's defense ministry and helping the transfer of "dual-use goods." It is part of a bigger package of measures hitting Russia with sanctions on more than 150 targets, including the country's largest carmaker.

The action was taken at a delicate moment for U.S.-Turkey relations, with Washington hoping Ankara will ratify NATO membership for Sweden when the Turkish parliament reconvenes in early October.

The United States and its allies imposed extensive sanctions on Russia after its February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, but supply channels from Black Sea neighbor Turkey and other trading hubs have remained open, prompting Washington to issue repeated warnings about the export of chemicals, microchips and other products that can be used in Moscow's war effort.

Multiple senior U.S. officials, including Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo, have traveled to Turkey since Russia's invasion of Ukraine as part of a pressure campaign to prevent any Turkish companies from helping Russia circumvent U.S. curbs.

"For the past 18 months, we've shared our concerns with the Turkish government and private sector and informed them of the significant risks of doing business with those we've sanctioned who are tied to Russia's war," a senior U.S. Treasury official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

"These designations reflect our ongoing commitment to target individuals and entities who provide material support to sanctioned entities," the official added.

There was no immediate comment from the Turkish government.

SANCTIONS EVASION

The U.S. Treasury Department in a statement said it imposed sanctions on Margiana Insaat Dis Ticaret and Demirci Bilisim Ticaret Sanayi, saying the Turkey-based companies were among those that Russia relied on for importing "much-needed dual-use goods to enable its unprovoked war of aggression on Ukraine."

It said the former had made hundreds of shipments to sanctioned Russian entities that are part of the supply chain for producing military drones used in the Ukraine war, while the latter has sent sensors and measuring tools into Russia.

Reuters could not immediately reach the companies for comment.

The U.S. State Department imposed sanctions on Denkar Ship Construction for providing ship repair services to previously designated vessels of a company connected to the Russian Defense Ministry.

Denkar did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The State Department also targeted Turkey-based shipyard agency ID Ship Agency and its owner Ilker Dogruyol as well as CTL Limited, which the State Department said was an intermediary that ships electronic components of U.S. and European origin to companies in Russia.

The firms and Dogruyol had no immediate comment.

The broader sanctions package targets Russia's industrial base, maritime sector and technology suppliers, as well as facilities producing and repairing Russian weapons systems.

Among those targeted was Russia's largest carmaker, Avtovaz, while GAZ Group - another automotive manufacturer - was hit with a new round of sanctions. Avtovaz declined to comment.

The U.S. also imposed sanctions on a major local copper producer - Russian Copper Company. The firm did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

A Finland-based network that specializes in shipping foreign electronics to Russia-based end-users was also targeted in the action as Washington cracks down on sanctions evasion. The Treasury slapped sanctions on Finland-based logistics firms Siberica Oy and Luminor Oy, accusing them of sending a wide variety of electronics into Russia.

Russia's construction sector, revenue streams from extractive industries and Russia-based banks, wealth management consulting, auditing and investment firms were also hit in the action.

Russia's embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

NATO MEMBERSHIP

Turkey, a member of NATO, has sought to maintain good relations with both Moscow and Kyiv during the war. It opposes the sanctions on principle, but has said they will not be circumvented in Turkey and that no shipped products can be used by Russia's military.

Ties with the U.S. have been strained over Turkey's reluctance to support the bids of Sweden and Finland to join NATO after Russia invaded Ukraine. While Finnish membership was sealed in April, Sweden's application remains held up by Turkey and Hungary.

Washington is not worried that the sanctions imposed on Thursday could derail Sweden's bid to join NATO, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters.

"We continue to work with them to communicate that NATO accession is important for Sweden, it should happen as soon as possible, and we take President Erdogan's assurances that it will happen at great value," Miller said.

"We don't see these as any way connected, and we don't see that in any way these sanctions should have any impact at all on that accession."

The United States has repeatedly said Sweden has done enough to alleviate Turkey's concerns and that its membership should be approved now.

(Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Daphne Psaledakis in Washington; Additional reporting by Polina Devitt in London and Gleb Stolyarov and Anastasiya Lyrchikova; Editing by Don Durfee, Alexandra Hudson, William Maclean, Paul Simao and Leslie Adler)
With the release of the refreshed Tesla Model 3, also known as the Highland project, on the way at some point in the near future, industry experts are wondering if the car might be the companys most affordable offering yet  and, if it is, whether that could trigger a price war within the electric vehicle market.

The actual price of the refreshed Model 3 and any other specific details about the car have yet to be announced. However, Brian Moody, executive editor for Autotrader, told a Forbes contributor that he expects that the new update to the Model 3 should  bring the price down.

This may be done by streamlining features and options or by renegotiating with suppliers, he added.

The current price of a Model 3 with Standard Range starts at $40,240, before tax credits.

While it is unclear how much lower the price of a refreshed Model 3 could get, if the cost does indeed get lower, any movement from Tesla on pricing could potentially trigger a price war in the EV market, forcing other companies to lower the prices on their entry-level EVs.

The most affordable EV currently on the market available to American consumers is Chevrolets refreshed Chevy Bolt, which starts at $26,500.

While it would be a surprise to see the price of the new Tesla Model 3 drop that low, Moody told Forbes that, if successful, the car could lead to an even cheaper Tesla model in the future. The success of updating the Model 3 and Model Y could help fund a Model 2-type vehicle.

However, not everyone is optimistic about the mythical $25,000 EV coming into existence.

Ivan Drury, the director of insights at Edmunds, a car shopping website, told Forbes: If [a $25,000 EV] materializes  and customers arent left feeling like theyve compromised on all other aspects of rideability  including adequate range  that would be a minor miracle.

Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the coolest innovations improving our lives and saving our planet.
There have been media reports that sounds of explosions have been heard during an air raid in Dnipro.

Source: Suspilne Dnipro

Details: Local residents could hear sounds of explosions once the air-raid warning was issued.

In addition, once the all-clear had been given, Suspilne Dnipro reported that there was a threat of artillery shelling in Nikopol and the Nikopol territorial hromada [a hromada is an administrative unit designating a town, village or several villages and their adjacent territories - ed.].

In addition, while the air-raid warning was in place, local Telegram channels reported possible explosions in Kryvyi Rih; The Ukrainian Air Force warned that Russian Shahed drones were moving in the direction of the city.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Explosions rang out in occupied Yevpatoria, Crimea, on the morning of 14 September. The Russian Defence Ministry reported a drone attack on Crimea and an attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet patrol ship Sergei Kotov by unmanned surface vessels (USV).

Source: Suspilne; Crimean Telegram channels; BBC Russian Service; Nataliia Humeniuk, Head of the Joint Press Centre for Operational Command Pivden (South), on air during the national joint 24/7 newscast; Kremlin-aligned news agency TASS; Russian Defence Ministry

Details: Suspilne noted that a local resident reported several powerful explosions.

In addition, Suspilne published photos and videos from the scene.

Later, Suspilne added that the explosions in Crimea were heard near the village of Uiutne, west of Yevpatoria.

"Ambulances and rescue workers are driving through the streets. As local residents told Suspilne Crimea, military unit No. 85683 is deployed in the area where the explosion was heard," Suspilne said.

The Crimean Telegram channel ChP Sevastopol [Emergencies Sevastopol] reported about four powerful explosions. But as of now, it is unclear if it is about the explosions that local residents have written about or whether they are new ones.

Nataliia Humeniuk, Head of the Joint Press Centre for Operational Command Pivden (South), reported that the Ukraines Defence Forces are working to destroy Russian targets.

"The concentration of military facilities, the presence of an airfield nearby  all this indicates that [Ukrainian forces  ed.] conduct their work in an absolutely planned manner. The targets are legitimate, the targets are military and cotton is flourishing," Humeniuk emphasised. [Russian propaganda, initially refusing to use the word vzryv (explosion), used khlopok (a bang) instead. However, khlopok also means cotton, and this has since become a meme  ed.]

The occupying authorities of Yevpatoria and Crimea have not yet commented on the explosions.

However, TASS, referring to the Russian Defence Ministry, claimed that Russian air defence systems destroyed 11 drones over Crimea, as well as naval aviation of the Black Sea Fleet, which destroyed three more USVs of Ukraines Armed Forces.

The Russian Defence Ministry reported at 07:22 that Ukraines Armed Forces tried to attack the patrol ship of the Black Sea Fleet, Sergei Kotov, in the waters of the Black Sea with five USVs at around 05:00. The Russian Defence Ministry stated that five USVs were allegedly destroyed by fire from the ship's standard weapons.

Previously: Russian occupiers once again reported that traffic on the Crimean Bridge was blocked.

Background:

On the night of 12-13 September, the occupation authorities of Sevastopol claimed that a missile attack caused a fire to break out at a shipyard near Kilen-balka, and the Russian Ministry of Defence reported an attack by missiles and uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) that damaged two ships.

Ukraine's attack on the ships of the Russian Black Sea Fleet in occupied Sevastopol can be considered a great success: a large landing ship was hit for the third time, and a submarine was hit for the first time.

OSINT researchers reported that a Ropucha-class large landing ship and a Kilo-class submarine were damaged at a shipyard in occupied Sevastopol. The Russian Telegram channel Baza wrote that, as a result of the attack, the large landing ship Minsk and the Rostov-on-Don diesel-electric submarine were damaged.

Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk, Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, thanked Ukrainian pilots for explosions in temporarily occupied Sevastopol.

Representatives of the Atesh underground resistance movement said they launched a missile strike on the Russian fleet in Sevastopol.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Hunters can harvest white-tailed deer during extended seasons designed to slow the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in Marion, Wyandot and Hardin counties.

Early archery season began in those counties Sept. 9, according to a news release provided by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

An early gun hunting season will be available in Marion, Wyandot and Hardin counties Oct. 7 to Oct. 9, the news release explained.

Archery season for white-tailed deer across the rest of the state begins Sept. 30 and will run until Feb. 4, 2024.

The state's regular gun season is split into two different periods this year. The first gun season will run Nov. 27 to Dec. 3; the second will be held the weekend of Dec. 16 and 17.

Muzzleloader season across the Buckeye State will be Jan. 6 to 9, 2024.

Several ways to test for CWD in deer harvested

There have been 23 cases where deer have tested positive for CWD in Marion and Wyandot counties since the fall of 2020. CWD has been detected in 31 states and four Canadian provinces.

The positive tests in Ohio forced ODNR biologists to establish a disease surveillance area in Marion, Wyandot and Hardin counties in 2021. That surveillance area remains in effect.

A pair of deer graze a residential property on Marion Avenue Road. A portion of the white-tailed deer in Ohio have tested positive for COVID-19.

"CWD is a fatal neurological disease that affects deer and other similar species, including mule deer, elk and moose," the news release reads. "No evidence exists that CWD can spread to humans, pets, or livestock."

The earlier hunting dates in those counties are designed to slow the spread of CWD by reducing deer numbers before the breeding season.

Hunters who harvest deer in the disease surveillance area are required to submit their specimens for CWD sampling during hunts Oct. 7-9, Nov. 4-5, Nov. 11-12, as well as during the entire seven-day gun season (Nov. 27-Dec. 3).

ODNR staff will be available at Ohio sampling locations during the seven-day gun season:

Big Island Wildlife Area Headquarters, 5389 Larue-Prospect Rd West, New Bloomington 43341

Killdeer Plains Wildlife Area Headquarters, 19100 CH 115, Harpster 43323

Wyandot County Fairgrounds, 10171 OH 53, Upper Sandusky 43351

Rural King, 233 American Blvd, Marion 43302

Hardin County Fairgrounds, 14134 County Rd 140, Kenton 43326

McGuffey Conservation Club, 6950 Township Rd 55, Ada 45810

Hunters are asked to use self-serve kiosks for mandatory sampling or for free voluntary sampling throughout the remainder of the deer season.

Kiosk locations are available at ohiodnr.gov/cwd. Instructions for sample submission will be provided at the kiosk. Successful hunters are not required to surrender their deer. Those with questions on having their deer sampled can call 419-429-8322. Outside the disease surveillance area, hunters may test a harvested deer at the Ohio Department of Agricultures Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory for a fee. Call 614-728-6220 for more information.

Special regulations apply for CWD hunting areas

In addition to mandatory testing, the following regulations apply within the disease surveillance area:

Salt, minerals and food are prohibited as bait during the special CWD hunts, the ODNR news release specifies.

"Normal agricultural activities, including feeding of domestic animals, as well as hunting deer over food plots, naturally occurring or cultivated plants, and agriculture crops, are not prohibited," the news release reads.

Carcasses and high-risk parts of the animal may not be removed from the disease surveillance area unless the carcass complies with regulations, it is delivered to a certified taxidermist, or taken to a processor within 24 hours of removal.

More information on carcass regulations and a complete list of certified processors and taxidermists can be found at ohiodnr.gov/cwd.

"The proper handling of carcasses, trims, and parts dramatically decreases the risk of spreading disease," the news release reads. "Hunters should properly dispose of deer carcasses by double-bagging all high-risk parts (brain, spinal cord, eyes, and lymphoid tissue) and setting them out with their household garbage for trash pickup, when permitted by waste disposal facilities. Those without trash pickup can double-bag the carcass and take it to a municipal solid waste landfill or bury the carcass at least 3 feet deep on the property of harvest. The Division of Wildlife provides receptacles in the disease surveillance area for proper carcass disposal."

Deer are susceptible to COVID infections

Deer are also susceptible to COVID infections, the Columbus Dispatch has reported.

That's based on the results of a study conducted by a team of OSU researchers that between November 2021 and March 2022 used nasal swabs to sample 1,522 wild deer in 83 of Ohio's 88 counties. About 1 in 10 deer tested positive for COVID, and at least one positive was found in 49 of the 83 counties.

Among the counties where COVID-infected deer showed up were Franklin, Delaware, Union, Fairfield and Hocking. Rural counties with higher deer populations, including Athens, Morgan, Washington, Meigs, Ashland and Richland, showed a significant incidence of infected deer.

ztuggle@gannett.com

419-564-3508

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Extra deer hunts designed to limit spread of Chronic Wasting Disease
In the middle of the night, a fixed-wing aircraft flew over rural Pennsylvania and detected a blip: it was one of Americas most wanted men wading through the dark.

A multiagency task force of cops and federal agents searched frightened communities around suburban Philadelphia for nearly two weeks, looking for Danelo Cavalcante, a convicted murderer who escaped Chester County Prison at the end of August. Cavalcante, considered desperate and dangerous, evaded hundreds of officers, helicopters, drones and dogs.

But in the wee hours on Wednesday, there was one thing he couldnt run from: his own heat signature.

The method police used to spot Cavalcante is called thermal imaging, which 60 years ago was an emerging technology mostly reserved for the military. The technology has come a long way in terms of affordability and is becoming more of a mainstay in American life. Along the way, its use has conjured concerns it could violate the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which protects Americans from unreasonable searches and seizures.

Pennsylvania State Police deployed use of the technology from the beginning of their search until the man was captured without a warrant, said Lt. Adam Reed, a spokesperson for Pennsylvania State Police. A warrant wasnt required in the case because the heat imaging was not pointed at a building.

How does thermal imaging work?

While human eyes and cell phone cameras see using visible light from the sun or artificial bulbs, thermal imaging detects thermal energy.

While not visible to the human eye, virtually everything emits some level of thermal energy, even ice, said Bill Parrish, co-founder and chief technology officer of thermography company Seek Thermal.

The sensors measure an objects heat signature and portray what is essentially its radiated heat on a screen, which can be as little as a handheld device or large enough to be mounted on an aircraft, said Joel Shults, municipal judge and retired Colorado police chief.

Adam Scott Wandt, a professor of public policy at John Jay College of Criminal Justice and expert in policing technology, said many police departments use the technology, especially in helicopters.

These cameras are used constantly, 24/7, he said. The technology once was exclusively used by military or police personnel, but today average Americans including electricians and firefighters can access them at the Apple store or on Amazon for a couple hundred dollars, he said.

Theyre extremely useful tools when using it to catch a suspect, he said.

In this image from video provided by CBS NEWS Philadelphia, law enforcement officers pose for a group photo with Danelo Cavalcante after his capture in rural Pennsylvania on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The murderer who brazenly escaped from a Pennsylvania jail was captured in the woods by a team of tactical officers, bringing an end to an intensive search that terrified residents as the fugitive broke into homes for food, changed his appearance and stole a van and rifle during two weeks on the run. (CBS NEWS Philadelphia KYW-TV via AP) ORG XMIT: NYSS311

Pros and cons of thermal imaging

Even the most evasive fugitive virtually always has one giveaway: body heat. While camouflage gear and evasive maneuvers can hide a person from tactical teams and other technology, thermal imaging is harder to run from, Shults said.

Also, the technology works as a receiver, meaning it does not bear the risk of having a signal detected, as no signal is sent to retrieve heat information, he noted.

However, thermal imaging doesnt come without its pitfalls. While people have unique heat signatures, it is difficult to recognize a specific person using a thermal camera, because the quality is much more pixelated than that of a cell phone camera.

In other words, if somebodys trying to hide in the bushes, this is a good technology for doing that, Parrish said. But using thermal imaging to find someone in a crowd would be rather fruitless, he noted.

In Cavalcantes case, the technology provided benefit since there was already a perimeter that officers were searching, based on previous information. The spot was also a rural, wooded area containing few people.

On the opposing side, the case has illuminated fourth amendment concerns.

A Supreme Court case, Kyllo v. United States, in 2001 challenged the use of thermal-imaging technology on private homes as a violation of the fourth amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees Americans protections from unreasonable searches and seizures. The court decided that use of the technology falls under search and that a search warrant is needed to use the technology on private property.

ESCAPED PRISONER CAPTURED: What Danelo Cavalcante told investigators about his plans

Wandt said in his mind, there were no ethical issues in this case.

This is an extenuating circumstance, he said. Cavalcante was found near a pile of logs near a tractor dealership.

They werent using it to see if people were growing marijuana in their house, they were searching for something urgent: a state murderer, said Wandt.

Where is thermal imaging headed?

Its like GPS if you think about where that was years and years ago before they started putting it in cell phones and everything else, Parrish said.

Thermal imaging began in the 1960s as a military tool, Parrish said, with one unit costing around $1 million. Now, a gadget of similar quality small enough to plug into a cell phone can be bought for a couple hundred dollars.

Application has also expanded well past military use, Parrish noted.

The technology has really developed dramatically over the years, and if you extrapolate where thats heading, you can easily see these things being adapted into a lot of different applications, Parrish said.

DISCARDED DNA: The controversial clue in the trash that's bringing serial killers to justice

He anticipates the biggest application will be in the automotive industry, where heat sensors can extend a drivers visibility far past highlights to alert pedestrians or animals further down the road, especially in dark or foggy conditions. Right now, the technology is exclusive to higher end vehicles, but as with other technologies in the past, Parrish anticipates the cost will drop as it further develops.

Other uses outside of law enforcement and cars are also being explored. One such use could come to the kitchen, as heat sensors may be added to appliances like microwave ovens to detect when food is ready. It can also be applied to detect how much energy is leaking out of homes through windows.

The technology has also expanded into larger scale production, Parrish said, from just a few thousand sensors when it first began to several million in 2023.

This cost of this stuff has come way down, and were beginning to see it as kind of a ubiquitous thing, Parrish said.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Danelo Cavalcante capture used thermal imaging: Heres how it works
Law enforcement officers escort Danelo Cavalcante from a Pennsylvania State Police barracks in Avondale Pa., on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. Cavalcante was captured Wednesday after eluding hundreds of searchers for two weeks. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

WASHINGTON (AP)  While the nation has been transfixed by the two-week manhunt for escaped prisoner Danilo Souza Cavalcante in Pennsylvania, another fugitive drama has been playing out in the nation's capital with comparatively minimal attention.

Christopher Haynes has been on the run for a week, since escaping from police custody at George Washington University Hospital on Sept. 6. Haynes, 30, had been arrested earlier in the day on murder charges relating to an Aug. 12 shooting in the district. His escape prompted a several-hour shelter-in-place order last week for the entire GW campus and brief roadblocks on nearby streets.

Cavalcante, a 34-year-old Brazilian national who was convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend, was captured Wednesday morning in southeastern Pennsylvania after an extended pursuit that received wall-to-wall live coverage. Haynes is still at large and awaits a trial.

The contrast between the two manhunts has been stark: while the national media has tracked every development in Cavalcante's flight, Haynes has basically dropped off the map. Police were able to provide an image last week of Haynes wearing a black t-shirt and gray briefs and moving through a local backyard. But the only updates since then have been the offering of a $25,000 reward for information leading to his capture, a news release Tuesday increasing the reward to $30,000 and providing additional details about the escape.

Brian Levin, criminal justice professor emeritus at California State University San Bernardino, believes the difference in public attention and media coverage comes down to a number of factors. For starters, there's the viral video of Cavalcante's innovative escape from Chester County Prison as he braced himself between two walls and performed a sort of vertical crab-walk up and out of sight.

There were all these aspects that were Hollywood-esque, Levin said. The video of that crab-walk up the wall looked like something out of a movie.

Haynes also staged a dramatic-sounding escape, according to the Metropolitan Police Department. However, no video of that escape has yet emerged.

After being brought to the hospital complaining of ankle pain, he attacked the officers escorting him and escaped as they were attempting to handcuff him to a gurney. Police Chief Pamela Smith, who assumed the job six weeks ago amid spiraling violent crime rates, later admitted that the officers had not properly secured Haynes, providing an opportunity for his escape.

Levin said the Cavalcante manhunt also featured a steady trickle of new developments that increased public interest as the hunt dragged on. There were repeated Cavalcante sightings, along with reports that he had shaved his facial hair, stolen a van and, at one point, stole a rifle and was shot at by an area resident.

There was a new twist with virtually every news cycle. There were so many new twists that the public became fixated on what's coming next," Levin said. Whereas with this D.C. fellow, there haven't been any new details where the stakes and intensity would grow with each news cycle.

Levin added that the American public has a longstanding fascination with this sort of true-crime flight-from-justice tale. The American crime narrative culture is something that dates back 100 years  to the days of Bonnie and Clyde, John Dillinger and Baby Face Nelson, he said.

Cavalcante's fugitive flight also spread fear across a wide rural and suburban community, with schools closing and authorities sending out warnings to all area phones, telling residents to lock their doors and stay on alert. They were able to establish perimeters where they focused their hunt.

But Haynes escaped in the midst of a large city not far from a subway station. Police this week said that they had received multiple reports of possible sightings of Haynes. But other than the several-hour-long shelter-in-place order for the GW campus on the day of his escape, there have been no other public signs of the pursuit.

Finding Christopher Haynes is a top priority for the Metropolitan Police Department. The search remains active and ongoing and MPD is working closely with our local and federal partners to ensure that Haynes is brought to justice," the MPD said in a statement earlier this week.

Dan Mears, a criminology professor at Florida State University, pointed to the urban vs. semi-rural settings as an element in the disparity. Washington residents are experiencing a multi-year spike in violent crime, particularly murders and carjackings.

As of Sept. 14, there have been 190 homicides in the district this year, still well below the numbers set in the late 1980s but a 28% jump from 2022. Of those murders, 120 (63%) are listed by the MPD as unsolved.

In D.C. you always have homicides, even when the numbers aren't rising, Mears said. There's definitely an issue in urban areas of people getting inured to it. You see in the paper that homicides are rising and you turn the page.

___

This story has been corrected to reflect that Brian Levin is a criminal justice professor emeritus at California State University San Bernardino, not a criminal justice professor at the school.

___

This story was first published on Sept. 14, 2023. It was updated on Sept. 15, 2023, to correct that The Associated Press, quoting officials, misspelled the fugitives first name. He is Danilo Cavalcante, not Danelo Cavalcante.
Javier Alegre, executive director of Latino Behavioral Health Services, hugs Katherine Fife, associate deputy mayor of Salt Lake County, at an opening ceremony for the organizations new facility in South Salt Lake on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023. | Spenser Heaps, Deseret News

Latino Behavioral Health Services has made huge strides in closing the gap in mental health services for Utah's Hispanic population.

But the nonprofit's small facilities often meant it was forced to limit the number of clients it could serve at any given time. A new, bigger facility located on the first floor of 3269 S. Main in Salt Lake City is allowing Latino Behavioral Health to serve about double the few thousand clients it previously had.

Latino Behavioral Health offers mental health services like counseling, peer support groups and classes in English, Spanish and Portuguese for children and adults. The majority of clients are Spanish-speaking, under- or uninsured, house insecure and unemployed.

Board Chairwoman and co-founder Teresa Molina said the nonprofit was established to address what she saw was a stark lack of mental health services for the Latino community.

"We knew our kids, our people, were dying like flies and that we needed to have better health services," she said. "We are nowadays over 15-17% of the overall state population, and in certain counties over 20%. There is no way we can expect this critical mass to learn English to be able to receive mental health services. We need to create providers whose main language is Spanish and that's what we are doing as Latino Behavioral. We are creating this workforce from the ground up."

Executive Director Javier Alegre said the new office is not only about 2.5 the times amount of square feet, but it also provides a number of different rooms that allow employees to provide different types of services simultaneously, something that wasn't possible in the prior space. A handful of new employees and interns have also been hired to help handle the new workload.

The new space has two living room areas as well as a kitchen and dining room table that Alegre hopes will encourage clients to gather around and connect with one another. Maps of different Latin American countries and a handmade tapestry decorate the walls and the youth room features posters of characters from the Disney movie "Inside Out."

Jules Martinez, clinical director at Latino Behavioral Health Services, chats with Alba Real, who works the front desk, at the organizations new facility in South Salt Lake on Sept. 7. | Spenser Heaps, Deseret News

"It also has given us the opportunity to make it our own and to decorate it, to make sure that is welcoming and to make sure that it represents our community," Alegre said. "That was very important to us. As you can see in the space, it doesn't look like a traditional therapy office or a traditional clinic  and that was intentional."

That outward representation of the community is reflective of the nonprofit's commitment to providing services that are both language-specific and culturally responsive. For many of Latino Behavioral's clients, receiving care in their own language that is culturally relevant makes all the difference. Molina pointed to her co-founder, Jacqueline Gomez-Arias, as an example.

"She was the survivor of five suicide attempts. She had been in multiple treatment centers. She could never get on her feet until she started receiving peer support in Spanish," Molina said. "She was an immigrant in this very land of Utah for over 35 years. And it wasn't until she received services in Spanish that she got on her feet, and all her full potential and power is fueling us yet. So let's be serious about providing services in native languages if we really want our population to thrive."

Latino Behavioral Health is accepting new patients but currently has about a two-month waitlist. Alegre said that's still much shorter than the six- to nine-month wait with public sector health care providers  a wait that can stretch out even longer for those looking for a Spanish-speaking provider.

Although the new facility brings a sense of accomplishment, Alegre is already looking to the future.

"I feel accomplished and I feel like we're doing what we need to do, but at the same time, I feel worried and concerned that we may not have the capacity even now with more space, more staff," he said. "Once the community knows that we are here and we're bigger and have more capacity  you know, we already have a waitlist. So what is that going to look like?"

More information about Latino Behavioral Health Services is available on its website.

People listen during an opening ceremony for Latino Behavioral Health Services new facility in South Salt Lake on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023. | Spenser Heaps, Deseret News
Claim:

A photograph shows a genuine crab-like human skeleton recovered from "Le Lanchon experiments" on human evolution.

Rating:

Rating: False

Since 2021, a photograph that claimed to show a "crab-like" human skeleton recovered from the "Le Lanchon experiments on human evolution" has circled some corners of the internet, prompting both skepticism and belief over the supposed figure created to "accelerate the development of mankind."

The claim resurfaced again in an Aug. 23, 2023, post (archived here) on X that included what appeared to be a photograph showing an average-shaped human skeleton positioned next to a huge "crab-like form" with a large pincer, hunched back, and elongated limbs:

Skeleton recovered from the Le Lanchon experiments on human evolution. In these tests, volunteers were subjected to procedures to "accelerate the development of mankind". No subject is recorded to have survived. Their crab-like form is thought to be an instance of carcinization. pic.twitter.com/JYB1ZrIUYt  Eduardo Valdes-Hevia  (@Valdevia_Art) August 23, 2023

The image above was initially so believable to some users on the social media platform that it prompted an Aug. 25, 2023, community note (which was deleted at the time of this publication). That note included a link directing users to a 2022 study that described malingering, a psychotic disorder that manifests as the "intentional production of false or grossly exaggerated physical or psychological symptoms motivated by external incentives."

(Screengrab/X)

One iteration of the claim blamed the supposed evolved crab-human on a process known as carcinization, which is a genuine evolutionary theory of how non-crab-like forms become crab-like. And this form of convergent evolution happens quite often  just not in humans.

However, the photograph was not authentic  it was simply an art project.

After scanning through comments on the post above, Snopes found the original poster, Eduardo Valdes-Hevia, whose X bio stated that he makes "spooky images on Photoshop." He wrote on Aug. 23, 2023, that the crab-like human was part of an art project, and he had "made it with photoshop!"

// Getting confused people in the comments so let me make it clear for new folks: this is an art project, I made it with photoshop!

And if you like that kind of stuff, there's lots more where that came from!

Here's the best place to browse through my art: https://t.co/Ug6ERfPklx pic.twitter.com/8UcjlQLZBK  Eduardo Valdes-Hevia  (@Valdevia_Art) August 23, 2023

Snopes contacted Valdes-Hevia to learn more about his artwork.

In an email, the artist confirmed that he had originally created the "living crab man" in November 2021 and posted a livestream as he made it in 2022. Again in 2023, Valdes-Hevia shared the image on X, at which point it was given a "new wave of attention."

"This time, [the image] got a quite controversial community note (it's gone now, but here's a thread with a screenshot of it and some context as to why I and many folks considered it disrespectful)," Valdes-Hevia wrote in an email.

"I'm no stranger to getting a community note when a post goes particularly viral, but this one was plainly inaccurate and claimed things like this can induce paranoia while linking to a completely unrelated article about psychiatric patients feigning symptoms. After other community note contributors intervened, though, it got removed."

A link to Valdes-Hevia's webpage was also included in his bio on X. The art installation, which was titled on the site, "Human Evolution Experiments," was satirically described as:

Skeleton recovered from the Le Lanchon experiments on human evolution. In these tests, volunteers were subjected to procedures to "accelerate the development of mankind". No subject is recorded to have survived. Their crab-like form is thought to be an instance of carcinization. This photograph is one of the few remaining images of the volunteers while they were still alive. The subjects developed a compact and efficient shape, with a defensive ribcage shell and a keratinous claw. Most traces of human intelligence were lost in the process.

Snopes previously debunked other art created by Valdes-Hevia that went viral, sometimes under the false premise that the images were authentic, including a supposed photo that showed a mermaid discovered in 1918 along a Nova Scotia river. Our newsroom also profiled the Spanish artist in 2021 as part of an exploration of turning photography into folklore.

Sources:

Bellman, Val, et al. "Malingering of Psychotic Symptoms in Psychiatric Settings: Theoretical Aspects and Clinical Considerations." Psychiatry Journal, vol. 2022, Apr. 2022, p. 3884317. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/3884317.

Eduardo Valdes-Hevia  on X: "Skeleton Recovered from the Le Lanchon Experiments on Human Evolution. In These Tests, Volunteers Were Subjected to Procedures to 'Accelerate the Development of Mankind'. No Subject Is Recorded to Have Survived. Their Crab-like Form Is Thought to Be an Instance of Carcinization. Https://T.Co/JYB1ZrIUYt" / X | Ghostarchive. https://ghostarchive.org/archive/Jlrfk. Accessed 13 Sept. 2023.

Evon, Dan. "Turning Photos Into Folklore: An Interview With Eduardo Valdes-Hevia." Snopes, 22 May 2021, https://www.snopes.com/news/2021/05/22/eduardo-valdes-hevia-interview/.

---. "Was a Mermaid Discovered on the River John in 1918?" Snopes, 6 May 2021, https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/mermaid-river-john-1918/.

Hamers,LiveScience, Laurel. "Why Do Animals Keep Evolving into Crabs?" Scientific American, https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-do-animals-keep-evolving-into-crabs/. Accessed 13 Sept. 2023.

"How Does a Crustacean Become a Crab?" EurekAlert!, https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/509499. Accessed 13 Sept. 2023.

"Https://Twitter.Com/ElysiaS013/Status/1694609472826880221." X (Formerly Twitter), https://twitter.com/ElysiaS013/status/1694609472826880221. Accessed 13 Sept. 2023.

"Https://Twitter.Com/Valdevia_Art/Status/1694403419778269472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1694403419778269472%7Ctwgr%5E58cf6e1feded37cf02e54bccf8ad0084fbb4a43e%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fpublish.Twitter.com%2F%3Fquery%3Dhttps3A2F2Ftwitter.com2FValdevia_Art2Fstatus2F1694403419778269472widget%3DTweet." X (Formerly Twitter), https://twitter.com/Valdevia_Art/status/1694403419778269472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1694403419778269472%7Ctwgr%5E58cf6e1feded37cf02e54bccf8ad0084fbb4a43e%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fpublish.twitter.com%2F%3Fquery%3Dhttps3A2F2Ftwitter.com2FValdevia_Art2Fstatus2F1694403419778269472widget%3DTweet. Accessed 13 Sept. 2023.

"Https://Twitter.Com/Valdevia_Art/Status/1695118582491857178." X (Formerly Twitter), https://twitter.com/Valdevia_Art/status/1695118582491857178. Accessed 13 Sept. 2023.

"Human Evolution Experiments." Valdevia, 24 Aug. 2023, https://valdevia.art/portfolio/human-evolution/.

"Twitch." Twitch, https://www.twitch.tv/videos/1200620638. Accessed 13 Sept. 2023.

Valdevia. "Skeleton Recovered from the Le Lanchon Experiments on Human Evolution. In These Tests, Volunteers Were Subjected to Procedures to 'Accelerate the Development of Mankind'. No Subject Is Recorded to Have Survived. Their Crab-like Form Is an Instance of Carcinization. (Photoshop Art by Valdevia)." R/ImaginaryHorrors, 9 Nov. 2021, www.reddit.com/r/ImaginaryHorrors/comments/qqb7ie/skeleton_recovered_from_the_le_lanchon/.
(Reuters) - New Zealanders head to the polls next month in an election that looks likely to bring back the kind of coalition government the country has known in recent decades, as neither of two main parties is on track to win a majority.

Here are the key parties and potential combinations that may emerge from the Oct. 14 general election.

LIKELY BEDFELLOWS: LABOUR AND GREENS

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has headed the Labour Party since Jacinda Ardern abruptly resigned in January. She led the centre-left party to a landslide victory in 2020, forming the only single-party government since proportional representation was introduced in 1996.

But even before Hipkins took over, Labour's fortunes had started to shift, as swing voters complained the party had taken on too many minority causes at the expense of middle-class New Zealanders struggling with rising costs of living.

Hipkins, 44, has steered the party toward the centre, saying its focus is on "bread and butter issues". But with Labour trailing the centre-right National Party 28%-39% in the latest opinion poll, it looks unlikely Hipkins can hold onto power alone.

Labour has previously governed with the support of the minority Green Party. While not formally in coalition now, the Greens agreed to cooperate with Labour after the 2020 election, with one of their members becoming minister for climate change.

LEADING CONTENDERS: NATIONAL + ACT NEW ZEALAND

National, on track to be the largest party, according to polling, might be able to form a government with ACT New Zealand. The right-wing party, however, has said it would not necessarily join National in a coalition but instead provide support case by case.

Christopher Luxon, 53, the former Air New Zealand chief who leads National, has built voter support for the party even as he personally trails Hipkins in popularity.

POTENTIAL KINGMAKERS

Winston Peters and his populist New Zealand First party are campaigning with slogans such as "Lets take the country back." The 78-year-old, who joined the 2017 coalition that brought Ardern to power, has vowed not to put Labour in government again, while Labour has ruled out working with New Zealand First.

Te Pati Maori focuses on Indigenous solutions for the country's Indigenous people. In the past it supported a National government, but Luxon has said he would not work with the Maori party.

(Reporting by Lucy Craymer; Editing by William Mallard)
[Source]

The family of late American billionaire George Lindemann has reportedly agreed to return over two dozen looted artifacts to Cambodia as the United States government continues its effort to repatriate stolen valuable and historic items from the Southeast Asian country.

Key details: The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York announced on Tuesday that the U.S. Attorneys Office and Lindemanns family agreed to return 33 Khmer antiquities looted from the Kingdom of Cambodia back to the country, some of which reportedly date back to over 1,000 years ago.

This historic agreement sets a framework for the return of cultural patrimony in support of the Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Cambodia, U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said in the press release.

About the artifacts: Some of the artifacts that Lindemann acquired include a 10th century statue of Dhrishtadyumna stolen from the Prasat Chen temple in the ancient capital of the Khmer kingdom, Koh Ker, and six heads of devas (angels) and asuras (demons) that were removed from the gates to Angkor Thom in the Angkor Wat temple complex.

More from NextShark: California church mass shooter charged with 90 federal hate crimes

The artifacts, which had been passed down to Lindemanns heirs after his death in 2018 at 82, are believed to be worth around $20 million.

How it was revealed: Investigation into the stolen artifacts began after reports revealed that the relics had been photoshopped out of pictures taken of daughter Sloan Lindemann Barnetts $42 million San Francisco mansion in 2022. A photospread from an issue of Architectural Digest in 2021 purportedly showed the unedited versions of the photos.

It is reportedly unclear if the family was aware that the relics were stolen.

More from NextShark: Mom Gives Birth to Baby Boy on Flight in India With Help From Passenger and Flight Crew

Cambodias reaction: In a statement, Cambodias Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts said that the familys decision to return the looted relics from the Southeast Asian country serves as an excellent and proper example for other museums and private collectors.

Latest repatriations: The latest news came on the heels of recent developments regarding the repatriation of stolen Cambodian relics in recent years, including those from the collection of New Yorks Metropolitan Museum of Art and the artifacts obtained by the late British art dealer and accused Asian antiquities trafficker Douglas Latchford.

More from NextShark: Lea Salonga to return to Broadway in David Byrne and Fatboy Slim musical Here Lies Love
(KTLA)  A family in Orange County, California was held at gunpoint earlier this week by four armed robbers who allegedly broke into their home, used a stun gun on one of the victims, tied them up, and demanded to know where they kept their valuables, authorities announced Tuesday.

Officers with the Westminster Police Department responded to the 8900 block of Pebble Beach Circle on Sept. 11 around 10:40 p.m. after a woman called 911 and whispered that she needed help.

When police arrived at the residence, they spotted four male suspects armed with handguns running from the home.

One of the suspects, now identified as 29-year-old Banning resident Danny Sommay, was taken into custody outside the residence after throwing his firearm over a brick wall. The gun, a 9mm handgun, was recovered and found to be loaded and had been reported stolen, a Westminster Police news release stated.

K-9 Yoda helps catch escaped Pennsylvania inmate

Inside the home, police found five victims, identified only as a man and a woman, an elderly woman, a 14-year-old boy, and a 7-year-old girl.

Investigators learned that the suspects, all wearing masks, forced entry into the home with guns. One of the suspects allegedly used a stun gun on the man, forcing him to the ground. The man, the two children, and the elderly woman were then tied up as the suspects attempted to find their valuables.

The other woman was able to hide in a nearby closet and call police, the release noted.

Authorities searched the area with the help of a helicopter but were unable to locate three other suspects. They remain at large as of Wednesday night.

Sommay was booked into the Orange County Jail on charges of kidnapping, robbery, burglary, conspiracy to commit a felony, possession of a loaded and stolen firearm, and armed criminal action. His bail was set at $1 million.

Watch: Boebert escorted out of Beetlejuice performance at Denver theater

Authorities did not say if any of the victims were injured during the incident or if the man was taken to the hospital after being hit with a stun gun.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Westminster PD Major Crimes Unit Det. M. Pierson at 714-548-3759.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Georgia's criminal proceedings against former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows will move forward, after a Thursday ruling by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. Meadows had requested a stay on all state court proceedings while his attempts to get the trial moved to federal court was in progress, but has now withdrawn that motion, with the court's approval. This comes after two of his former Georgia co-defendants, the Trump-affiliated lawyers Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro, had their cases severed from the other 17 defendants and pushed onto an accelerated schedule.

Meadows had requested the pause after filing an appeal of U.S. District Court Judge Steve Jones' ruling last week that denied Meadows' motion to have his case moved to federal court. Meadows' appeal will continue, in other words, but so will the felony case against him in Fulton County.

Meadows' attorneys cited the court's accelerated scheduling as a factor in withdrawing the motion for a stay, writing that "the matter will be fully briefed and ripe for a decision well before Mr. Meadows would be required to proceed to trial and ahead of the presently scheduled pre-trial deadlines."

Heres the courts order granting the motion to withdraw: pic.twitter.com/FJT53wAvFS  Anna Bower (@AnnaBower) September 14, 2023

Related

"Every defendant for himself": Mark Meadows and others may be ready to flip on Trump

"No party tomorrow," former U.S. Attorney Joyce Vance wrote of the canceled oral argument on X, formerly known as Twitter. "After Judge McAfee severs his case from the 2 defendants w/Oct. trials, Meadows withdraws his motion for a stay pending appeal of the removal issue to the 11th circuit. His opening brief is due Monday. The court set a very fast schedule."

No party tomorrow. After Judge McAfee severs his case from the 2 defendants w/Oct. trials, Meadows withdraws his motion for a stay pending appeal of the removal issue to the 11th circuit. His opening brief is due Monday. The court set a very fast schedule. https://t.co/JQGnpHb0VC  Joyce Alene (@JoyceWhiteVance) September 14, 2023

Meadows is one of 19 co-defendants charged last month in Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis' sprawling racketeering indictment, which alleges that he, Trump and a cast of others conspired to overturn the 2020 election results in the state. The former White House chief of staff faces one count of violating Georgia's RICO Act and one count of solicitation of violation of oath by a public officer for his role in the alleged plot. Meadows was not named, even as an unindicted co-conspirator, in Jack Smith's federal indictment, leading to speculation that he may have provided Smith with evidence against Trump.

Meadows' appeal of last week's ruling should be resolved quickly. His team's brief is due Monday, the state's response on Sept. 25 and Meadows' reply brief by Sept. 28.

Other legal experts speculated that Meadows' motion to withdraw reflects his chilly reception so far at the 11th Circuit.

"TRANSLATION: We no longer care enough about our weird request for injunction to risk what THIS motions panel might say about the merits of our arguments," Lee Kovarsky, a University of Texas law professor, tweeted.

TRANSLATION: We no longer care enough about our weird request for injunction to risk what THIS motions panel might say about the merits of our arguments. https://t.co/UBPXBFlWqj  Lee Kovarsky (@lee_kovarsky) September 14, 2023

We need your help to stay independent

Subscribe today to support Salon's progressive journalism

"Hot take: Meadows don't want the motions panel (that's very unfavorable to him) preemptively steering the discourse and wants to avoid too much discussion about whether former officers are covered by the removal statute," Georgia State Law professor Anthony Michael Kreis added. "So, this morning's order is a gift that he wants to use."

Hot take: Meadows dont want the motions panel (thats very unfavorable to him) preemptively steering the discourse and wants to avoid too much discussion about whether former officers are covered by the removal statute. So, this mornings order is a gift that he wants to use. https://t.co/zR7aK0QbBQ  Anthony Michael Kreis (@AnthonyMKreis) September 14, 2023
Roland Harris Jr. speaks about the shooting death of his 19-year-old son, Jacob Harris at a press conference outside the Phoenix Police Department on Jan. 17, 2019.

The father of a teen shot and killed by Phoenix police demanded justice at the steps of the federal courthouse on Wednesday before submitting an appeal for his civil case against the city and the officers responsible for shooting his son.

Phoenix police officers shot and killed Jacob Harris, a 19-year-old, on Jan. 11, 2019. It has been over four years since the shooting, but his father, Roland Harris, is still fighting for accountability.

I could care less about the civil lawsuit. I want justice, he said

The Phoenix Police Department has come under scrutiny for their use of deadly force, resulting in a sweeping civil rights investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. The shooting came a year after 2018 when the department had the highest number of police shootings in the country at 44.

As of September this year, Phoenix police have been involved in 23 police shootings.

The city has not provided a comment at the time of the reporting of this report.

Lawsuit

Jacob Harris, a 19-year old man who was shot and killed by Phoenix police in January of 2019.

In 2020, almost a year after the Harris shooting, the family sued the city and the officers involved, alleging their response was unconstitutional. However, a U.S. District Court judge in Phoenix ultimately dismissed the civil lawsuit, because Arizona law permits officers to use deadly force if they believe it's necessary to prevent a fleeing felon armed with a deadly weapon.

At the time, Tom Horne, now state superintendent, represented the Harris family, and it was his phrasing of the lawsuit that allowed it to be dismissed.

By the time the family got a new attorney, the deadline to change the wording of the suit had passed. Now, the family is appealing the courts decision with a new attorney, Steve Benedetto, and asking for a chance to rework the lawsuit and bring the case to court under an amended claim.

Harris death

Police officers David Norman and Kristopher Bertz shot Jacob Harris near 91st Avenue and Camelback Road, who they said was armed with a gun and under police surveillance for a string of robberies.

The police had been following a group of suspected armed robbers and witnessed them robbing a Whataburger restaurant and followed them while they drove away. After officers used a grappling device to stop the vehicle, Harris ran out of the car and was shot twice in the back by Norman and Bertz.

While on the ground, another officer shot Harris with non-lethal rounds because they claimed Harris was reaching for his weapon. After firing the non-lethal rounds, another officer sent a K-9 dog out to grab Harris's body.

It was unclear what kind of non-lethal rounds were used on Harris.

Police helicopter footage shows a patrol car striking the vehicle in which Harris was riding. After the car comes to a stop, Harris gets out of the rear passenger side and begins to run. About 3 seconds after Harris runs, the officers shoot in the video.

Norman and Bertz had been involved in other shootings before they shot Harris. Norman had shot three other people in three other encounters, two of which were fatal. Bertz was one of two officers who shot and killed 38-year-old Erik Pamias in 2017.

Norman retired in 2020 while Bertz remains on active duty.

Despite the investigation into the police department's use of deadly force, Roland Harris is still searching for answers regarding his son's death.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Phoenix police shooting suit appealed in Federal Court
Father-Son Pilot Duo Recreates 30-Year-Old Photo They Took Together In The Cockpit: A Dream Come True Moment | Westend61 via Getty Images

A pilot who is seen in a 30-year-old photo of him sitting in the cockpit with his toddler is being recreated all these decades later.

In the first photo, taken in 1994, a young Ruben Flowers sits in the co-pilots seat and stares at his father with admiration. The pilot, also named Ruben Flowers, is seen smiling for the camera before he begins his flight.

Flowers son, now 30, is getting ready to start his career as a first officer for Southwest Airlines, CNN reported. He reflected on his journey after finding the adorable photo of himself and his father at his grandmothers house.

A kid posed with his pilot dad in an airplane. Almost 30 years later they recreated the photo. https://t.co/kRuSFjeJri  When We Lose True Democracy People Get Hurt (@ILoveMySteelers) September 14, 2023

It was a dream of mine to make it to this point to fly with my dad, it was probably my number one aviation goal, he told CNN Travel.

After digging up the photo, the father and son decided to recreate the scene as colleagues. The perfect opportunity came in March when the older Flowers was flying a Southwest flight for the final time. As the father flew from Nebraska to Chicago, his son stayed by his side, serving as his first officer. Thats when the duo recreated the photo.

It was just great to be able to recreate that moment, the younger Flowers said. It was a dream come true moment.

The older Flowers was also joined by his brother and cousin as he flew for the final time before retirement.

There are seven of us, the retiring pilot told CNN. Me. My brothers a pilot. I have three kids, all pilots. And my brothers son is a pilot and my cousin is a pilot. And its just amazing to me that they all wanted to be pilots.
The Seattle office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation released a wanted poster for an alleged major drug trafficker Thursday.

Jeffrey Joseph Branham, 34, is wanted for his alleged involvement in the trafficking of drugs, including fentanyl, in the Seattle area.

On May 10, with assistance from the Seattle Police Department and the King County Sheriffs Office, FBI Seattle arrested 10 people who were trafficking drugs in the area.

On June 14, a federal arrest warrant was issued for Branham, charging him with three counts of distribution of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug-trafficking crime.

Branham is a white man described as 5 feet, 10 inches tall, weighing 155 pounds, with brown eyes and brown hair.

He has tattoos on his chest, neck, both arms, and both hands. He has ties to Seattle, Kent, Federal Way and Olympia.

Branham should be considered armed and dangerous.

If you have information about his whereabouts, contact FBI Seattle at 206-622-0460 or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.
A hearing began Thursday morning in the lawsuit 10 states filed against FEMA's flood insurance rate increases.

U.S. District Court Judge Darrel J. Papillion heard testimony Thursday morning from three of the five witnesses presented by Solicitor General Liz Murrill, who represented 10 states, 43 parishes, 12 levee boards, and more. Murrill is seeking an injunction to pause the Federal Emergency Management Agency's implementation of Risk Rating 2.0, the new way FEMA is assessing risks to price insurance.

The new flood insurance program, named Risk Rating 2.0, increases prices by 17.9% a year, limited by law. The average total increase to Lafourche will be 321%, and for Terrebonne, 305%. The hardest hit parish is Plaquemines, which will see a 545% increase.

Attorneys Yoseph Desta and Benjamin Takemoto of the Department of Justice represented the Federal Government.

"The argument that it has to make rates affordable isn't in the statute," Takemoto said.

Witnesses in the state lawsuit against FEMA speak to reporters during recess. Left to right: Casey Tingle, Matthew Jewell, and Archie Chaisson.

Desta and Takemoto addressed many of the arguments the state would raise prior to witnesses taking the stand.

According to the two lawyers, the public was notified of the changes long ago, and waiting four years to bring a lawsuit undercuts the plaintiff's argument.

They also said the increase to the parishes' rates in their example was $2,900, which was not irreversible or irreparable, and that the 17.9% cap on yearly increases is a buffer to those affected.

"That would be like telling a plaintiff that's charged $10 a year they wouldn't be harmed if the government raised it to $1 million a year," Murrill said.

Papillion heard testimony from three of the five witnesses before noon: St. Charles Parish President Matt Jewell, Director of the Louisiana Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Casey Tingle and Lafourche Parish Assessor Wendy Thibodeaux.

The first witness was Tingle, who often acts as the go-between for FEMA and parish and local governments.

He said FEMA sets the rules for how people and entities can qualify flood insurance. Those who have implemented the changes, Tingle said, feel as though FEMA has moved the goal post.

Furthermore, those who have applied for grants and spent them to mitigate their homes now must buy the increased flood insurance or the state must pay the money back to FEMA.

"They would be considered noncompliant and ineligible for assistance," he said.

Under the new system, emergency assistance still would be available for residents in the immediate aftermath of a disaster, but those who lack flood insurance risk foregoing assistance from FEMA during the rebuilding process, he said.

Jewell said that participation in the National Flood Insurance Program is voluntary, but not as simple as FEMA makes it out.

"If you want to write a mortgage in this parish, you probably should have flood insurance," he said. "It's about as voluntary as paying taxes."

St. Charles Parish has seen rates rise anywhere from 46% at the lowest, to 776% at the highest. Government buildings have gone from $400 to 500 to $3,000 to $10,000 to insure. Risk management and financial officers have recommended dropping the policies.

He said he intends to drop flood insurance, as well as most residents in his parish. His parish passed a millage to fund levees for protection to receive a discount on their policies.

After four negotiations, Jewell said, he learned they had inaccurate data on the levees.

"The problem was, the program had already been implemented and we were being charged under incorrect data," he said.

And because of that, building in flood prone areas has nearly washed up.

Thibodeaux said rate increases in Lafourche will reduce property values. As people cannot afford them, properties will be abandoned or sold under value.

"People will sell their properties under market value, under duress," she said. "I'm no longer valuing it at $100,000, I'm forced to value it at $50,000."

Property values create ad valorem revenue. Without that tax, critical government services like fire departments, schools, and law enforcement lose out, she said.

This will create a snowball effect of problems because abandoned properties become blighted, blighted properties attract crime and lowered tax revenue underfunds law enforcement, she said.

Still to speak are North Lafourche Levee District Director Dwayne Bourgeois and Lafourche Parish President Archie Chaisson.

The hearing was held in Section P courtroom in New Orleans.

This article originally appeared on The Courier: Attorneys say FEMA not required to make flood insurance affordable
A federal judge in Texas ruled Wednesday that a regulation intended to preserve the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program is unlawful, delivering a major blow to the Biden administration.

Last year, the administration moved to preserve the program  which protects undocumented immigrants who were brought to the US as children  and released a rule to codify the policy into a federal regulation.

But in a Wednesday filing, Judge Andrew Hanen , of the Southern District of Texas, maintained that DACA is unlawful and argued the rule violated the Administrative Procedure Act, a law that governs how agencies make regulations. The order doesnt impact current beneficiaries of the program.

To be clear, neither this order nor the accompanying supplemental injunction requires the (Department of Homeland Security) or the Department of Justice to take any immigration, deportation, or criminal action against any DACA recipient, applicant, or any other individual that would otherwise not be taken, Hanen wrote.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement Wednesday evening that the administration is deeply disappointed by the ruling.

During this Administration, hundreds of thousands of DACA recipients have been able to live and work lawfully in our country without fear of deportation, Jean-Pierre wrote. As we have long maintained, we disagree with the District Courts conclusion that DACA is unlawful, and will continue to defend this critical policy from legal challenges.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas condemned the ruling in a statement but affirmed that the department will continue to process renewals for current DACA recipients.

The Department of Justice declined to comment.

DACA, created in 2012, was intended to provide temporary reprieve to undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children, a group often described as Dreamers, and allow them to live and work in the US. Many of them are now adults. There were 578,680 immigrants enrolled in DACA as of the end of March, according to government data.

The Biden administration released a rule last year to preserve and fortify DACA, largely maintaining the criteria for the program. In January, nine Republican-led states asked Hanen to block the rule.

Hanens ruling comes after a federal appeals court largely upheld his previous ruling finding DACA unlawful. That ruling blocked the government from approving new applications for the program but allowed it to continue for current enrollees while the case was litigated. That remains the case today.

In his Wednesday ruling, Hanen cited the ongoing legal fight over the program and put the onus on Congress.

Litigation revolving around the legality of DACA, in one form or another, has existed for nearly a decade. While sympathetic to the predicament of DACA recipients and their families, this Court has expressed its concerns about the legality of the program for some time. The solution for these deficiencies lies with the legislature, not the executive or judicial branches, Hanen wrote.

Immigrant advocates have repeatedly urged Congress to provide protections to DACA recipients, but those attempts have fallen short.

Democrats and Republicans have been sympathetic to the hundreds of thousands of undocumented immigrants who were brought to the US as children, many of whom were under the age of 10. But the give and take between Democrats and Republicans over Dreamers has made it difficult to achieve a bipartisan compromise.

This story has been updated with additional details.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Attorney Cameron Atkinson, Bernalillo County resident Dennis Smith and attorney Jeremy Gay mark a first victory in their case against New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham - AP

A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Governor of New Mexicos controversial suspension of gun carrying rights after several groups challenged the order in court.

District Court Judge David Urias said Governor Michelle Lujan Grishams emergency order banning members of the public from carrying firearms in Albuquerque and the surrounding county went against a US Supreme Court ruling that people have the right to carry a gun outside their homes for self defence.

The Democratic governor on Friday issued the suspension on firearm carry laws to offer a cooling-off period to address the states high rates of gun crime after several children - including a five-year-old girl - were fatally shot.

While gun control campaigners branded the move courageous and necessary after an 11-year-old boy was killed last week in an apparent road rage incident, it provoked a fierce backlash from Republicans and some Democrats who said it was unconstitutional.

Gun-wielding firearms owners have since held several rallies in Albuquerque protesting what they believe is a violation of their rights.

Protesters at a rally following the gun suspension - AP

Meanwhile, several Republican legislators have said they plan to have Ms Lujan Grisham impeached.

Republican Representative John Block, who is working to impeach Ms Lujan Grisham, told The Telegraph: Right now, our governor is a domestic enemy, against our Constitution and our rights. So its my duty to bring forward articles of impeachment and hold her accountable.

If I wasnt doing that. I would be in dereliction of my duty that I swore on the Bible that I will uphold.

Blowback also came from local law enforcement officials who said they would not enforce the order and the states Democratic attorney general, Raul Torrez, who told Ms Lujan Grisham he could not legally defend it as he doesnt believe it passes constitutional muster.

During Wednesdays hearing at Albuquerque federal courthouse, Mr Urias said: They just want the right to carry their guns.

To be honest with you, I think you have kind of a hard road here to get up, he told Holly Agajanian, the attorney for the governors office.

Several rallies have been held in Albuquerque opposing the ban - AP

Ms Agajanian urged the judge to keep the order in place for the 30 days, saying the governor rejects the notion that she cant even try to keep the streets safe.

Lawyers for the plaintiffs have heavily referenced the precedent set by a 2022 Supreme Court case - New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen - that in effect bolstered open-carry laws.

The temporary restraining order will remain in place until a further hearing to assess the order on 3 October.

But Ms Lujan Grisham was defiant on Wednesday morning. Speaking on Good Morning America, she said: I will keep doing everything thats based in science and fact and public safety efforts to clean up our cities to make this the safest state in America. I will not stop until thats done.

Gun violence kills around 500 people a year in New Mexico, which ranks sixth among US states for gun deaths per capita, according to gun violence prevention group Everytown for Gun Safety.

Albuquerque is among the 10 most dangerous US cities, based on FBI violent crime data. The Telegraph approached Ms Lujan Grisham for comment.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
A federal judge in New Mexico on Wednesday blocked Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham 's recent suspension of certain gun rights in Albuquerque and its surrounding county.

U.S. District Judge David Urias granted a temporary restraining order after a hearing Wednesday afternoon.

The directive from Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, sparked at least a half-dozen lawsuits. Opponents have argued that the 30-day ban on the right to carry open or concealed firearms in public in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County was in violation of the Second Amendment.

Hannah Hill, the executive director of the National Foundation for Gun Rights, one of the plaintiffs in the case before the court Wednesday, said she was thrilled" that Urias had blocked the governors wildly unconstitutional public health gun ban.

Lujan Grisham vowed to keep fighting, calling gun violence and drug abuse "acute threats to public health and safety in this state."

I refuse to be resigned to the status quo," she said in a statement after the ruling. "I call on leaders across the state, from local law enforcement to the Legislature to mayors and county commissioners: Stand with me to enact solutions that save peoples lives. Throwing up our hands is not an option.

Lujan Grisham issued the order Friday, arguing it was necessary to curb a spike in gun violence and illegal drug use in the area. The announcement last week noted that she was taking the step after the shooting deaths of a 13-year-old girl on July 28, a 5-year-old girl on Aug. 14 and an 11-year-old boy on Sept. 6, as well as two mass shootings.

The order sparked bipartisan backlash, with state Attorney General Raul Torrez, a Democrat, notifying Lujan Grisham in a letter Tuesday that his office would not defend the order in court. Simply put, I do not believe that the Emergency Order will have any meaningful impact on public safety but, more importantly, I do not believe it passes constitutional muster, he wrote.

In his ruling from the bench Wednesday, Urias said, I dont blame [the governor] for wanting to take action in the face of terrible acts, The Associated Press reported, adding that he said he was faced with a much narrower question about the rights afforded to citizens. The ruling will remain in effect at least until an Oct. 3 hearing, the AP reported.

Lujan Grisham's order allowed state police to assess civil penalties and fines of up to $5,000 for violators, but Albuquerques police chief had refused to enforce it.

Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen, a Democrat, said Monday he also would not enforce the ban.

This order will not do anything to curb gun violence other than punish law-abiding citizens from their constitutional right to self-defense, Allen said at a news conference.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
It was a warm weekday afternoon, and Maurice Vaughn had just pulled into his brother-in-law's driveway  a Memphis police car tailing closely behind, its blue lights flashing.

A detective with the police departments Organized Crime Unit questioned Vaughn about a cracked windshield, then arrested him for driving with a revoked license, police records show. But it was what happened next that sparked a court battle.

Even though Vaughns Toyota Camry was parked in his relatives driveway, officers insisted on impounding it and conducting a search that day in 2018. They found a gun inside, and Vaughn was charged with felony gun possession. A federal judge, however, found that the officers violated Vaughns Fourth Amendment right against unreasonable search and seizure, and took the rare step of throwing out the evidence.

Without the evidence, prosecutors dropped the charges against Vaughn, but by then he had spent more than a year in jail. He lost his job. He lost his apartment. He lost precious time with family.

MEMPHIS, TN - September 5, 2023: Maurice Vaughn, who is a defendant who had his charges thrown out after a judge ruled that Memphis police violated his rights in searching his car, outside of his home in Memphis, Tennessee. Photo by Brad Vest for The Marshall Project.

When youre not even convicted of anything, this can cost you your whole life, said Vaughn, now 35.

Judges in federal court rarely throw out evidence in cases like Vaughns. Its so unusual, that a former federal prosecutor in Memphis said he cant recall ever losing a Fourth Amendment challenge over his three-decade career.

Yet federal judges and magistrates in Memphis have excluded evidence in at least 10 cases involving the citys police department over the past five years, chastising officers in several cases for overzealous policing, according to a review by The Marshall Project and the Institute for Public Service Reporting at the University of Memphis.

The finding comes as the U.S. Department of Justice embarks on a civil rights investigation of Memphis police following the beating death of motorist Tyre Nichols, and five officers being charged with murder in the case. Investigators will be searching for cases like Vaughns to determine just how deeply abuse and misconduct run within the 1,900-officer department.

'The right course of action': Memphians respond to DOJ investigation into Memphis police

Defense attorneys say the number of successful Fourth Amendment challenges increased in recent years in Memphis as the police department waged an intensive campaign to get guns and drugs off the streets, relying on extensive traffic and pedestrian stops that used unmarked police cars in largely minority neighborhoods. Most of the successful challenges identified by the news organizations involved traffic stops and searches of pedestrians.

Some officers, from our experience, they're just not trained enough to know where the boundary is from between any means necessary and what is constitutionally allowed in interacting with the citizens, said Tyrone Paylor, first assistant in the Federal Public Defenders Office in Memphis.

Successful challenges remain relatively small

Though the number of successful challenges remains relatively small  only about 1% of federal prosecutions in Memphis are dismissed because of Fourth Amendment violations  defense lawyers like Paylor say the rulings are a sign of larger problems in the police department.

Many police stops and searches are never even challenged, Paylor said, and some officers simply dont care if their actions violate peoples rights.

Tyrone Paylor, First Assistant Federal Public Defender in Memphis, Tennessee, Aug. 8, 2023. Photo by Karen Pulfer Focht for The Marshall Project.

They'd rather get guns and drugs off the street and have a court throw it out, but they still get the guns and drugs off the street, he said.

The U.S. Attorneys Office in Memphis declined to comment about the cases. Memphis Police did not respond to requests for comment.

The citys police force has been under scrutiny since January, when Nichols death sparked a national outcry. Officers in a specialized crime unit called Scorpion stopped Nichols car on Jan. 7, saying he was driving recklessly. Bodycam footage showed officers pepper spraying, kicking and punching the 29-year-old, who later died.

Chief Cerelyn CJ Davis told Memphians in a press conference after Nichols death that she would continue to work with community members to restore their trust in the police. She later said there was no evidence Nichols was driving recklessly or justification for the traffic stop.

This is not a reflection of the good work that many Memphis police officers do, Davis said after the officers involved in Nichols death were arrested. What we do next will be a reflection of that character.

More: MPD's SCORPION Unit was billed as a violent crime-fighting unit, but most of its cases were traffic violations and drug crimes

Statistics elusive on motions to suppress evidence

Statistics on motions to suppress evidence in federal courts nationwide appear elusive or nonexistent. A range of experts contacted for this story, including college professors, attorneys and the clerk of the U.S. District Court in Memphis, said they know of no uniform statistics.

However, federal court analysts said the number of successful motions to suppress uncovered in Memphis appear significantly higher than what theyve seen in other cities around the country.

Nationally, judges rarely toss out evidence on Fourth Amendment grounds, according to Akin Adepoju, a law professor at George Mason University in Virginia. The fact its happened at least 10 times in the past five years in Memphis hints at problems with overzealous policing, he said.

I think its certainly an indicator that some practices out there have gone unchecked, said Adepoju, who trains federal public defenders from around the country.

The rulings criticizing the actions of Memphis police officers have come from five judges and magistrates in federal court, including appointees of former Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Donald Trump.

In Vaughns case, he was just pulling up to pick up his brother-in-law for their shift in the catering kitchen at McAlisters Deli in June 2018 when police stopped him. Vaughns brother-in-law was willing to take Vaughns car keys, court records show. But police insisted on impounding the car anyway, and it was during a subsequent inventory search that they found a gun in a duffel bag. A friend of Vaughns said hed accidentally left it in the car earlier that day. The gun was registered to the friend, an Army veteran, but because Vaughn had a marijuana possession conviction from 2012, police charged him with felony gun possession.

Federal prosecutors argued that the search of the car was valid, but that even if police violated Vaughns Fourth Amendment rights, the officers believed they were acting appropriately at the time  meaning they could keep the evidence collected.

U.S. District Court Judge Sheryl Lipman disagreed, noting in her ruling that Memphis polices decision to tow Vaughns car violated the departments own policy. She pointed to testimony that one detective was going to leave Vaughns car but changed his mind after another detective told him he wanted to tow the vehicle.

That description smacks of the very type of deliberateness that the exclusionary rule is designed to deter, Lipman wrote in the August 2019 order, alluding to the rule that lets judges strike down evidence gathered unconstitutionally.

Judges offered stronger words for detectives in other cases identified by the news organizations. In January 2020, Memphis police gang unit detectives saw Derrion Goods car parked outside a convenience store with the engine running. According to court records, two detectives parked behind Goods, blocking his car in, because of their suspicions that he was engaged in criminal activity. They forced Goods out of his car, searched it, and found a gun, marijuana and a digital scale often associated with drug sales. They arrested him on gun and drug charges.

U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Parker rejected arguments from police and prosecutors and threw out evidence in his case. He ruled the detectives were wrong to stop Goods based on what the judge called a hunch because even if the hunch turns out to be accurate, a hunch is not reasonable suspicion. Goods spent several months in pretrial detention.

All in all, the Detectives here practiced policing too proactively, Parker wrote in 2021. In another part of the decision, he wrote, Again, the Court understands that the Detectives face hard decisions and dangerous encounters, but there are constitutional limitations to the type of proactive policing here.

The case of Derwin Seals

Parker drew a similar conclusion in the case of Derwin Seals, who was on a bus from Dallas to Memphis in 2018 when police stopped the vehicle to conduct a safety check for narcotics and illegal weapons, according to a police record. Officers searched Seals belongings and found a handgun, marijuana and cash, among other items. He faced drug and gun charges.

In court, Seals argued that the officers illegally prevented him from exiting the bus, and violated his rights during the search. Parker agreed and tossed the evidence in 2019. Seals, who lives in Dallas, spent more than five months in jail.

I didnt understand everything that was going on, but I knew there was something wrong with the way that they arrested me. I knew they couldnt just search my bag like that, Seals said of the Memphis police.

MEMPHIS, TN - September 5, 2023: Maurice Vaughn, who is a defendant who had his charges thrown out after a judge ruled that Memphis police violated his rights in searching his car, outside of his home in Memphis, Tennessee. Photo by Brad Vest for The Marshall Project

Retired federal prosecutor Tim Discenza said he declined at times to prosecute traffic-stop cases that appeared to have constitutional problems. Among the cases he took, he doesnt recall losing a single motion to suppress evidence over his 33-year career working for the U.S. Attorneys Office in Memphis.

But times have changed.

Today, theres more pressure put on the judicial branch, said Discenza, who retired in 2010. Theres been a clearly shown increase in unnecessary violence against certain minorities by the police, he said.

Fourth Amendment challenges a tough sell in courts

Veteran defense attorneys like Claiborne Ferguson say Fourth Amendment challenges have long been a tough sell in Memphis courts. Still, chances for success are much better in federal court than state court, where most of the judges traditionally have been retired prosecutors, he said.

You could have a slam dunk motion to dismiss in state court, and it would be denied, said Ferguson, whos been practicing in Memphis since 2000. He said federal judges, by contrast, are less deferential to law enforcement.

Those federal judges don't give a darn about who's on the stand testifying. They have no deference to law enforcement. None, Ferguson said.

The rulings by federal judges in Memphis are also significant, considering that to prevail in federal motions to suppress evidence, defendants have to clear a higher bar than in state courts. In state cases, defendants generally must prove that police violated their rights while gathering evidence against them  something legal experts say already is a high standard. But in federal courts, the bar is even higher because of a legal principle called the good faith doctrine: Even if a judge finds that police illegally obtained evidence, the judge can still allow it if prosecutors can show that the officers believed they were acting lawfully when they made a stop, search or arrest.

While some believe that the successful challenges in Memphis are a sign that the justice system is working, the outcomes provide little solace for people like Vaughn and his family.

Vaughn said the time he spent wrongly incarcerated has left him with lasting trauma. While in jail, he said he witnessed several fights, stabbings and sexual assaults. At night, in his cell, he slept with a sock full of padlocks wrapped around his hand so he could defend himself if anyone attacked him.

Now a free man with a young daughter, Vaughn says hes still afraid of being in quiet environments, often sleeping with a television on for background noise.

His mother, Unitta Vaughn, said police put her son in danger and stole a large piece of his life.

They really didnt have an excuse to pull him over, she said. They could put more of their time into trying to fight crime.

This article was published in partnership with The Marshall Project, a nonprofit news organization covering the U.S. criminal justice system. Sign up for their newsletters, and follow them on Instagram, TikTok, Reddit and Facebook.

Daphne Duret is a reporter with The Marshall Project. Marc Perrusquia is the director of the Institute for Public Service Reporting at the University of Memphis.

Sachi McClendon contributed to this story.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: What federal judges rulings reveal about the Memphis Police tactics
Staff members at the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommended new safety rules for infant rockers Wednesday, saying the popular products were linked to 11 deaths from 2011 to 2022. Most occurred while babies were sleeping.

The reclined seats, which are designed to soothe babies by rocking them back and forth manually or with motors, were also associated with 88 injuries over the same period. In many of the cases, infants hurt their heads after rockers tipped over, CPSC staffers said.

The recommended safety rules, which were sent to CPSC commissioners Wednesday and obtained by NBC News, aim to prevent infants from suffocating by making rockers firmer and flatter. They also would require rockers to pass stability and other safety tests and seek to prevent strangulation from hanging straps. In addition, the rules would require prominent warning labels emphasizing the hazards associated with rockers, urging caregivers not to allow babies to sleep in them or put soft bedding in them.

We have to make these as foolproof as possible  you need to make it so that its almost impossible to use in an unsafe way, said Dr. Rachel Moon, who leads the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome task force for the American Academy of Pediatrics.

She said the CPSC staff proposal would help reduce deaths but added that she was concerned rockers could still be dangerous because babies could fall asleep at an incline  a position that could jeopardize their breathing.

A figure illustrates the differentiation in risk between a child's head positions while sleeping in a rocker. (Consumer Product Safety Commission)

The CPSCs four commissioners are scheduled to meet Oct. 4 to decide whether to adopt the recommendations. The next step would be a public comment process before the rules are finalized, which could take months or years. The agency declined to comment on the proposal ahead of the vote.

The CPSC staff report estimated that nearly 570,000 infant rockers are sold every year and that it could cost manufacturers about $80,000 to redesign each model if their products do not already meet the new requirements.

Infant rocker manufacturers Fisher-Price, Kids2 and Beaba did not respond to requests for comment. Fisher-Price defended its rockers in a letter last year to Congress obtained by NBC News, saying the products were safe when parents monitored their babies and properly restrained them.

4moms, which sells a rocker that was recalled last year because of a potential strangulation hazard, said in a statement that federal safety rules are helpful, that changes could be needed and that it would monitor the rulemaking process. The company said that no incidents were related to its rocker, which remains for sale, and that it had been recalled to add a strap fastener out of an abundance of caution.

Of the 11 deaths mentioned in Wednesdays report, nine occurred when infants were placed in the products for napping or sleeping, CPSC staff members said. Many of the incidents involved soft bedding like blankets, which can pose a suffocation threat, that was placed near or on the babies. Some infants had not been properly strapped into the rockers and were later found facedown.

Cathy Greningers 4-month-old granddaughter, Savannah Savage, died sleeping in a Fisher-Price Infant-to-Toddler Rocker in Amarillo, Texas, in January 2019. Savannah had dozed off in the rocker and slept there overnight, which Greninger said the family did not realize was against manufacturers instructions.

A forensic pathologist ruled that Savannah died of probable positional asphyxia, according to a Randall County, Texas, justice of the peace.

Image: Cathy Greninger holds her newborn granddaughter, Savannah. (Courtesy Cathy Greninger)

Greninger welcomed the CPSC staffs recommendation for safety rules, saying it was at least a start, but she said she believes rockers should be removed from the market. Because many are advertised as calming places for infants, with settings such as vibrations, Greninger said she thinks it is almost impossible for babies not to fall asleep in them.

If its made for an infant, theyre going to fall asleep in it, she said, so I think they just need to be banned.

In June 2022, the CPSC and Fisher-Price issued a joint warning that 13 babies had died in the companys Infant-to-Toddler and Newborn-to-Toddler Rockers from 2009 to 2021. On the same day, the CPSC issued a warning with another manufacturer, Kids2, that one baby had died in the companys popular Bright Starts rocker. Both statements cautioned against using rockers, swings and other inclined seats for sleep.

Figures illustrate how an infants face makes contact with a rocker. (Consumer Product Safety Commission)

In its letter to Congress last year, Fisher-Price said that in at least 11 of the 13 incidents, the infants were left unattended and that in at least six cases, the babies were not properly restrained in the rockers.

Manufacturer warning labels generally say that infants should not be left unsupervised in rockers and that the rockers should not be placed on soft surfaces, as they could tip over and babies could suffocate. But some companies have previously suggested using rockers for supervised naps, warning only against using the products for unsupervised or prolonged periods of sleep.

Rockers are distinct from inclined sleepers like the Fisher-Price Rock n Play, which was recalled in 2019 and has been linked to about 100 deaths.

After the deaths associated with the Rock n Play, a federal law signed last year prohibited sleepers for infants with inclines greater than 10 degrees  a change intended to reduce the risk of positional asphyxiation, among other hazards. Infant rockers and other seats often place babies at inclines of significantly more than 10 degrees, which can pose similar risks of asphyxiation if they fall asleep, said Erin Mannen, an assistant professor of mechanical and biomedical engineering at Boise State University, who has studied the issue.

The CPSC staff proposal does not address the incline of rockers.

The CPSC has increasingly focused on infants who have died sleeping on cushioned products. This month, CPSC commissioners proposed the first regulations for nursing pillows, citing dozens of deaths, most of them in incidents involving sleep. This fall, the agency is expected to advance rules for infant loungers  a product linked to at least 25 deaths, according to an NBC News investigation.

Before 4-month-old Savannah died in 2019, she was a healthy baby with the most gorgeous blue eyes who was just starting to coo and loved to watch her familys Chihuahua run around, said Greninger, her grandmother.

On the day Savannah died, Greninger was supposed to babysit. Instead, early that morning, he got a frantic call from Savannahs dad, who screamed into the phone: Savannahs gone! Savannahs gone!

Image: Savannah Savage (Courtesy Cathy Greninger)

Greninger told the CPSC and Fisher-Price about Savannahs death within weeks. She said she was devastated that so little action had been taken since then.

I was so worried that if it could kill Savannah, it would kill somebody else, Greninger said. We miss her terribly. And I just hope that her life had some meaning.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Projecting strength and at times practically shouting into the microphone, a passionate-sounding Palm Bay mayor sought to reassure residents his city was safe after a string of isolated murders and shootings.

The two-and-a-half-minute recorded statement was the first reaction from Rob Medina to the outbreak of violence, which began Friday and kept the city in the unwelcome spotlight through Wednesday.

I want to reiterate our unwavering commitment to the safety of every individual we serve, Medina said, flanked by his city manager and police chief, neither of whom spoke.

 WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS

The first incident happened Friday, when another body was found in the notorious failed housing development known as The Compound. Over the years, the paved roads overgrown with weeds have become a popular destination for ATV riders, paintball enthusiasts  and killers.

Police in Alabama arrested a couple who had the victims vehicle, saying they met with their victim at a gas station before driving him out to The Compound in late August.

On Monday, four teenagers  including three juveniles  were shot at an apartment complex by an unknown gunman. The teenagers are all expected to recover.

Read: Pure evil: Man accused of shooting man to death during carjacking at Palm Bay 7-Eleven

However, a man getting gas lost his life during a carjacking on Tuesday. Indian River County deputies made an arrest in the killing Wednesday.

I am confident that our investigations will result in additional arrests very soon, Medina roared. Crime can happen anywhere, and random acts of violence can occur even in the safest of communities.

Medina said the city would continue to invest in safety in his statement. Neither he nor the citys spokeswoman responded to requests to make Medina available to answer questions following his statement about what steps could be taken.

Read: Deputies: Couple arrested after roaches found in childs backpack, home in complete disarray

That includes steps to finally solve the quandary over The Compound, which continues to sit in private hands. Despite massive growth across all of Central Florida, including Palm Bay, the land remains stubbornly vacant.

Were looking at as a city to see if we can do a city-initiated rezoning, to make it to where it can be industrial or recreational, something that could be productive for the city instead of a liability, Councilman Kenny Johnson said during an interview Monday.

Read: Police make arrest in connection with vandalism at 2 Orlando LGBT+ centers

As for the rest of town, Medina encouraged neighbors to look after each other and report possible crimes or suspicious events to police.

While we face challenges from time to time, we will overcome them together as a united community, he flourished. These recent incidents, although concerning do not define us.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Healthy competition is critical for what we do as fighter pilots because theres no competition quite as testing as real combat, says Brig. Gen. Micah Zeus Fesler, Air Combat Command's Air Expeditionary Wing commander overseeing Exercise William Tell, which is being held from September 11-15, 2023, at the Air Dominance Center in Savannah, Georgia. The reality of this is that when you compete and strive to be your best, strive for perfection, youre working to be better than your peers and to beat the enemy  this is how we get better.

Editor's Note: Welcome to the second in our three-part series on the rebirth of the legendary William Tell fighter competition and training exercise. Be sure to read all about the colorful history of William Tell and how it has been adapted for the cutting-edge of air combat in our first installment here .

Unlike other U.S. military air combat exercises such as Red Flag, William Tell actually pits aircrews, maintainers, weapons loaders, intel officers, and command and control personnel against one another as they battle it out to win prestigious trophies . To bring competition into the mix is a means to start improving and continuing to posture ourselves better for the great power competition, says Fesler.

https://youtu.be/G7aSB212sB4

The big difference is that scoreboard, Fesler stated, as he at the big digital scoreboard that is broadcasting daily performance grades during the exercise. When you go to a Red Flag , if you fail, if you get 'shot down,' you have the embarrassment in the debrief , you look at the flight recording tapes, and you look at what to do better next time. But whats great about the competition at William Tell is that you see your name on that board and you see your performance every day. When you track how you are training, and how you are performing, it gives a different perspective. I think it brings out the best in people.

F-22 Raptor pilots walk out to the flight line for a William Tell mission. Jamie Hunter

In the first two days of this new incarnation of William Tell, resurrected after a 19-year absence, there has been a blend of competition between weapons loaders, aircrews, and intelligence officers, as well as a range of keynote speeches and panel sessions to help breed squadron culture and knowledge of the historical wins of the USAF.

We are trying to make it not only awesome flying but also something not seen in other exercises, the accompanying air power events, explains exercise director Maj. Garrett Dodge Getschow. On the first day of the exercise, Lt. Col. (Ret) James Harvey, who was in the first winning Top Gun team in 1949, was here to tell the entire William Tell team the story of how they won the first air-to-air gunnery meet , and the history of how it was classified as top secret for years, so it wasnt revealed. Keynote speakers are also sharing their stories to help inspire people to stay in, or to come and join, the military.

Gen. Mark Kelly, commander of Air Combat Command, introduces the new Lt. Col. James Harvey III F-15 Wing Award during William Tell. USAF

F-35As return from the first William Tell 2023 mission on September 11, 2023. Jamie Hunter

Reflecting on the actual flying elements of the exercise over the first two days, Getschow is glowing in his appraisal of the carefully planned events. It was an awesome experience on day one as the 1st, 388th, and 104th Fighter Wings came together for the first Defensive Counter Air [DCA] Fighter Integration [FI] mission, which consisted of a 4+4+4 of F-22s, F-35As, and F-15Cs respectively, against all the assembled 'Red Air' assets. These include F-16Cs from the 64th Aggressor Squadron , T-38s from the 7th Fighter Training Squadron, and a mix of the participating F-15s, F-22s, and F-35s, flown by the White Force evaluator team.

In terms of making these FI VULs [vulnerability periods, aka missions] unique, at William Tell each wing team gets one chance to go up and show what theyve got. They are charged with integrating with two other wings, and its been clear that some guys have been pretty upset; they might have missed their shot at it.

An F-15E from the 366th Fighter Wing team returns to Savannah after a William Tell mission. Jamie Hunter

The afternoon was all ACM [Air Combat Maneuvering] fights, and that was based around a CAP and tap. CAP is the acronym for Combat Air Patrol and tap means the 'blue air' friendly fighters are attacked by the 'red' force. Feedback from the Alaskan Raptors , which did that first ACM 'CAP and tap,' was that they found it the most fun fighting experience theyve had. The 'CAP and tap' at William Tell involved two fighters from each team against two separate bandits. You deal with one aggressor then they turn around and another is ready to kill you, explains Getschow.

When it comes to ACM, we dont train much for this kind of fight. We certainly dont do it back and forth, back and forth, like we have here. In William Tells ACM they are in a constant 2-v-1, theyre supporting their 'bro' to keep them alive at close range. Unique to this is that one pair of F-22s, for example, went against a T-38 and an F-35. The other pair went up against an [aggressor] F-16 and an F-15, so it was always dissimilar and they didn't know who they were up against until they got there.

The "Red Air" force includes F-16Cs from the 64th Aggressor Squadron. Jamie Hunter

An F-15C from the 104th Fighter Wing gets airborne for a William Tell mission. Jamie Hunter

Some of the planned schedule for the week had to be reshuffled due to Hurricane Lee off the Eastern seaboard. It meant the planning team moved up the FI missions as they required the most airspace, which the hurricane could impact later in the week.

Every day had two banner shoots scheduled. Each competing wing has its own banners, and we are actually bringing them back and counting the holes, with the winner being those with the most holes per round expended, Getschow explained. The 1-v-1 Basic Fighter Maneuvers (BFM)  dogfighting  was slipped to Thursday as it requires less airspace and less chance of having the hurricane impede the available airspace.

The afternoon launch gets underway at William Tell as aircrews emerge from briefings. Jamie Hunter

There was a definite winner on day one as three Raptors were lined up together for the initial weapons loading competition. The entire William Tell team watched as the 1st FW won that first round. The team loaded in 27 minutes, with zero discrepancies  taking them into the final on Thursday, Getschow said.

I am looking at all the platforms we have here [F-15, F-22, and F-35], says Chief Master Sergeant Yamil Davila, the head weapons evaluator for this William Tell. We evaluate safe, secure, and reliable loading operations. This is demonstrating the ability to rapidly generate aircraft for that rapid combat capability. We look for team dynamics, communication, and precision loading operations  speed and accuracy.

The three-person team includes a chief, who ensures its all being done by the book. The two-man preps the aircraft for the load, with the third member inspecting the load and driving the weapons to the aircraft. Some platforms are slightly more complicated, explains Davila.

Afternoon missions have included 2-v-1 fights with aggressor aircraft. Jamie Hunter

For instance with the F-22 and its internal bay, theres not a lot of clearance. That loading has to be very precise to ensure it doesnt damage the munition or the aircraft. The F-35 is very similar. The F-15 is a bit different because all the weapons are external, which means theres more room to work and lower risk of damage.

The weapons loading competition heats within each type saw two AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles ( AMRAAMs ) and two AIM-9X Sidewinders being loaded by each team. The F-22s and F-35s carry the AIM-120s in the under-fuselage internal bays, while the Eagle carries them on the external shoulder stations. The Raptor carries the AIM-9s in internal side bays, although the rails extend out of the recess for ease of loading and for firing clear of the fuselage. The F-35 carries AIM-9Xs on external wingtip pylons, while the F-15s carry them on the wing shoulder pylons.

The grand final weapons loading on Thursday sees each team receive four AMRAAMs and two Sidewinders in their transportation containers, and so they face an added complication of having to pull them from the casket and place each missile on a cradle to then load. The three teams and their respective aircraft will line up and go head-to-head at the same time.

An F-22 pilot taxies out for a William Tell mission. Jamie Hunter

Facilitating the whole exercise is the Combat Readiness Training Center (CRTC) at Savannah, under the command of Lt. Col. Stephen Tracker Thomas. He explains that the airspace available here is unique and highly sought after. Our airspace [over the Atlantic Ocean] is 230 nautical miles from north to south and 250 nautical miles from east to west, and goes from the surface up to 60,000 feet, with only limited supersonic restrictions.

We have 23 acres of ramp space here at the Air Dominance Center that can accommodate 54 fighters, and for secure briefing and debriefing, we have 7,000 square feet of vault space, which is critical when youre bringing in nine units that require classified space for the competition. In our 'war room,' we can track the aircraft from power on to shut down. This allows the William Tell evaluators to understand exactly what unfolded during each mission, with accurate three-dimensional modeling of the action. The aircraft are tracked on radar, but also via air combat maneuvering instrumentation pods that include data link capabilities fitted to the fighters.

The 64th Aggressor Squadron has provided the backbone of the aggressor force for William Tell. Jamie Hunter

Weve set up some really challenging scenarios for the teams, Brig. Gen. Fesler notes. The Savannah CRTC set all of this up beautifully for us, and they do a great job at the ADC hosting the event and providing us with exactly what we need.

I think the live missiles part of the historic William Tell was great - its always important to ensure our systems are working end-to-end, and the reality is that we have our Weapons System Evaluation Program Combat Archer that exercises that live missile firing. When it comes to William Tell, we can still exercise our end-to-end capabilities, but at a bit lower cost without employing live missiles. We still get great training.

A pair of Langley-based F-22As sit on the ramp as an F-15E Strike Eagle departs on a William Tell mission. Jamie Hunter

In the modern era, we fight in an integrated way. We take all the capabilities we have and synchronize them. This shows in William Tell. This morning we had four F-22s, four F-35s, four F-15Es and four F-15Cs fighting in the scenario. They are graded against each other as to how they performed as a team. We look at how the team does as a whole and it comes down to the kill-to-loss ratio, thats our scoring."

We are always training to our most challenging threats, fighting that high-end mission with China as our pacing threat. So, at William Tell, mixing the 'White Force' evaluators in, flying F-22s, F-15s, and F-35s as 'red air' makes it very challenging for the teams, stealth-v-stealth is a very difficult scenario. But if we can fight and beat ourselves, we should be okay.

A Vermont Air National Guard F-35A at William Tell. Jamie Hunter

Reflecting on the William Tell missions conducted in the first two days of the exercise, Fesler concludes: Theyre all having a blast here. I think there's some pressure in the competition, but what Ive heard from most of the people here at William Tell is that this is the most fun theyve ever had on a sortie or at an exercise.

Contact the editor: tyler@thedrive.com
[Source]

Filipino engineer Jeremy De Leon has won the prestigious James Dyson Award for his invention of the keychain microscope, known as the Make-roscope.

About De Leons invention: The microscope, which can be attached to smartphones, enables users to view microscopic specimens easily. It magnifies samples by 125 to 400 times their actual size.

The Make-roscope is small and lightweight, which allows students to carry it like a keychain. The kit includes an information card, tweezers, keychain, cleaning cloth, blank glass slides, prepared specimen, pipette, specimen tubes and cotton swabs.

De Leons invention aims to revolutionize science education and make microbiology more accessible for students and teachers, offering individual portable microscopes for all.

More from NextShark: Retired Asian captains sue NYPD over alleged promotion bias

Theres so much negativity during the pandemic so I wanted to give back and spread positivity. I thought of giving away 1,000 pieces of the Make-roscope, De Leon said, according to ABS-CBN News.

About the award: Out of 47 entries from 12 universities, De Leon won the biggest cash prize of 330,000 pesos (approximately $5,818) along with the James Dyson Award, which will fund his further research and development.

More from NextShark: Asian American commissioner candidate in Texas accuses opponent of racism over whitewashed photo

Because of the James Dyson Award, we will expand our goal of reaching not just Filipino students, but every student in the world, De Leon said. So they will be engaged in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and we will have more researchers, scientists, engineers, innovators, and especially change makers.

De Leons Make-roscope will also advance to the international stage of the competition, wherein 20 inventions will be announced on Oct. 18 and the big winners on Nov. 15. The winners will reportedly be awarded up to 2,000,000 pesos (approximately $35,260) by James Dyson, a British inventor and business magnate who founded the household appliance company Dyson.

How it all started: De Leon, a 28-year-old Manufacturing Engineering graduate of Mapua University, began his invention with a low-cost prototype using lenses from a laser pointer, a hairclip and a mobile phone.

He noted that the Make-roscope was made during the pandemic when an Innovator Challenge was posted by the Department of Science and Technology on its TikTok account. De Leons invention was noteworthy even in its prototype stage, as it earned first place in the #PinoyInnovator TikTok Challenge in 2021.

Additionally, De Leon secured fourth place with another invention: a flashlight microscope-projector which also utilizes mobile phones. Altogether, he earned 25,000 pesos (approximately $440) in total through the TikTok competition.

TikTok has grown to be a home for a diverse array of creators, and we are very pleased on how this competition has highlighted Filipino talents in science and technology, TikToks Head for Public Policy Kristoffer Rada said, according to The Star. We hope to continually engage this vibrant community.
A fire rescue boat was stolen on the Willamette River near Portland Wednesday night, according to Portland Fire & Rescue.

Not only was the Portland Fire & Rescue Boathouse broken into, but a rescue boat was taken.

The United States Coast Guard was able to locate the boat, get on board, take custody, and arrest the person involved.

Mechanics with Portland Fire & Rescue evaluated the boat at the Port of Kalama, which sustained propeller damage.








Gabriel Cabrera, who was fired from his job as an LAPD officer, protests outside the department's downtown headquarters. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)

Nothing much fazes Gabriel Cabrera after 17 months of picketing outside Los Angeles Police Department headquarters.

There was the time, he said, a bicyclist spat on him. And the glares he encounters from officers on their way to and from work. Plus the occasional F 12 taunts hurled from passing cars, "12" being slang for police. He said he mostly tunes them out and tells himself, well, at least people are paying attention.

It's been more than a decade since the former LAPD officer was fired for what department officials said was involvement in an improper real estate deal. Cabrera has denied any wrongdoing, and hopes his protest will help get his job back while drawing attention to what he says was the real reason for his termination: the departments unspoken policy of forcing out officers who have been injured at work.

And so on most Tuesday mornings  his day off from his current job working security at Disneyland  he drives downtown to carry out his protest. Sometimes his wife, Maria, tags along. She usually stands nearby, flipping through her phone in the shade of a large auditorium that abuts the LAPDs glass-and-limestone headquarters.

For months, Cabrera has been a fixture along downtown's Main Street. It has made him an easy target for passersby. At times he has been cursed out for being pro-police by people he suspects didnt bother to read his two homemade signs about exposing LAPD malfeasance.

On a certain level, Cabrera said, he understands why some might vent their anger from a bad experience with a police officer at someone like him  even though he is calling out what he sees as wrongdoing by department leaders.

At 59, he said, he's too old to understand social media but has been told by friends that if he pickets long enough, someone might post his picture online and make it go viral. He's also taken to emailing members of the Board of Police Commissioners on a weekly basis, copying Mayor Karen Bass, LAPD Chief Michel Moore and anyone else he thinks will listen.

He read a story in The Times about how the commission, the civilian-led body that oversees the department, voted a few years ago to posthumously reinstate one of the LAPD's first Black officers. Commissioners made the symbolic decision because the officer, Robert William Stewart, had been forced out of the department in 1900 based on false allegations.

Maybe they could do the same for him, Cabrera tells himself.

One Tuesday in April, he finally took a day off from protesting to attend a commission meeting and plead his case in person. When it came his turn to speak, the five commissioners listened passively until his allotted time was up. He went back to his seat and the next public speaker was called.

Cabrera said that he understands the likely futility of asking for his job back after so many years but that he has to keep trying to undo a wrong  a dogged determination instilled in him by his father, who flew 35 missions over Germany as a radioman on a B-17 in World War II.

According to Cabrera, his troubles started in 1998.

The East L.A. native had joined the LAPD about a year before, after a stint in the Marines. He and his partner were on patrol in the West L.A. Division when they responded to a report of an intoxicated man at Santa Monica Boulevard and Armacost Avenue. Cabrera said they took the man into custody without incident but were in close contact with him during the arrest.

A few weeks later, he said, he began suffering headaches and came down with a high fever. He also started forgetting things. A doctor, he said, diagnosed him with meningitis, an inflammation of tissues around the brain and spinal cord that can leave patients with mild cognitive impairment.

Convinced that he contracted the infection, typically spread by respiratory droplets, during his arrest of the intoxicated man, Cabrera filed a workers' compensation claim and was off work for several months on medical leave.

Once he came back, he said, he felt like a marked man.

Read more: A Black LAPD officer wanted to make a difference. Then, he says, he was racially profiled by his own department

The LAPD defends itself in scores of lawsuits and claims brought every year by officers alleging they were discriminated against after being injured on the job. But history shows the department has reason to be suspicious.

For years, the LAPD did not closely track employees on extended injury leave, opening the door for abuse. Officers would file claims and continue collecting their salaries, sometimes for years, without working. A Times investigation in 2014 found a dramatic rise in the rate of injury claims filed by police and firefighters, which were costing the city tens of millions of dollars annually. A city audit later found a culture of filing excessive claims.

The LAPD began to crack down around 2017, launching inquiries and creating a unit within the Special Operations Division tasked with investigating workers comp fraud. One investigator testified at a recent deposition that the units officers have been known to tail cops suspected of faking an injury to the gym and while they dropped their children off at school.

Upon his return to work, Cabrera was placed on permanent light duty that forced him to staff the station's front desk. His supervisors began to watch him closely, second-guessing his every move, he said. Every so often, the department would approach with an offer to retire with a medical pension between 10% and 20% of his base pay. Each time, he declined, convinced it wasn't enough to support his family.

Lucy Garcia remembers Cabrera from those days. The two met when she came to the station one time to report alleged abuse at the hands of her former partner. He was also working the front desk when she came in seeking help for her ailing father, who she suspected was being mistreated by his caretaker. Cabrera showed her compassion and insisted on stopping by her father's house to conduct a welfare check, she said.

He followed up and would come around," Garcia recalled, saying the two of them have stayed in touch.

In 2008, Cabrera found himself under internal investigation after a cousin accused him of elder abuse and of failing to pay back money he owed her for a real estate deal that fell through.

Department investigators accused Cabrera of failing to abide by the terms of a court order to pay his cousin $150,000 and depositing the proceeds of an $80,000 loan against her property into his own bank account. The internal complaint against him also said he had lied to investigators.

According to Cabrera, the cousin was facing foreclosure and had used him as a straw buyer in an elaborate scheme to help her refinance her home. He denied committing fraud and blamed any false statements he made to internal affairs detectives on his cognitive and memory issues brought on by the meningitis.

Facing termination, he was sent before a Board of Rights, a mini-trial in which the officer and department officials present evidence and call witnesses.

Read more: LAPD seeks to fire 2 officers in gang unit suspected of turning off body cameras

But before the hearing, Cabrera alleges, his attorney told him that the outcome had already been decided and that the department was using the internal affairs case as a cover for firing him because of his disability, and that if department higher-ups wanted him gone, the discipline system was set up in a way that leaned in their favor. The attorney, Larry Hanna, declined to comment.

The board found Cabrera guilty of eight allegations. He was later fired by then-Chief Charlie Beck.

After his termination in 2012, the Los Angeles Police Protective League denied his request for help filing an appeal. He eventually hired his own lawyer and sued the city, contending that the LAPD's discipline system was "used, manipulated and exploited  unfairly and unequally, against some fellow and former Police Officers."

The lawsuit was thrown out of court.

The experience nearly ruined him financially, he said. He had lost not only his $80,000 LAPD salary but also his disability pension benefits. With the couples bills mounting, they began renting out the second floor of their Pico Rivera home and living out of their cluttered living room, sharing a bathroom with their tenants. They sold Marias wedding ring.

For all the talk of the unbreakable "blue wall" bond shared by officers who wear the uniform, Cabrera said, life after the LAPD can be an isolating experience. Most of his onetime friends and colleagues on the force have stopped responding to his frequent messages. One Tuesday, he said, he made eye contact with a cop he'd been friendly with at the West L.A. station because their lockers had been near each other. And he just walked right past me without saying anything," Cabrera said.

His wife, he said, doesn't like him going downtown to picket and face harassment. She questions whether it will make a difference in getting his job back.

Still, she continued to accompany him on some Tuesdays, sometimes packing a lunch of ham sandwiches and fruit.

Cabrera has had his own doubts. But then he finds himself filled with anger when he thinks about the circumstances under which he was fired and how they  stabbed me in the back.

Being outside during the unusually wet winter was miserable, he said, but he would take being drenched over standing out in the sweltering heat as he did a few times last summer. He remembers one Tuesday when the temperature became so high it seemed his shoes started to melt on the asphalt. A couple of hours into the protest, two officers rolled around in a black-and-white squad car and offered him a bottle of water. He chugged it on the spot. But years of battling the department had made him paranoid, and he wondered whether the officers were being friendly or had some other motive.

I dont think its good publicity if I drop dead picketing in front of police headquarters, and I have two signs [critical of] the police," he said.

Read more: Female commander fired after drunken incident calls out LAPD 'double standard'

Last September, Maria suffered a heart attack and underwent triple bypass surgery. He missed a few days of protesting for the first time to be by her side as she recovered, and he thinks the stress of the ordeal is partly to blame for her health problems.

Patrick Smith, another former LAPD cop who knows Cabrera from his West L.A. days, said he too lost friends on the job after he challenged what he saw as discrimination for an on-the-job injury.

"They're so scared of the machine, the department and what they can do to you, that they won't even talk to you," Smith said. "They're afraid to even be associated or to be seen talking to you."

After his lawsuit was thrown out, Cabrera said, he began trying to call in favors. He reached out to Lt. Craig Lally, a police union leader who had testified on his behalf during his disciplinary hearing.

Lally stopped returning his phone calls, he said. But he kept trying to reach him, as well as other league members, begging for help.

Eventually, he said, he got an email from Robert Rico, the leagues general counsel.

"I will not mince words," the July 2022 email began. "Quite simply, and in layman's terms, you do not have a case."

Rico said neither the Police Protective league nor Lally had failed Cabrera. Furthermore, Rico wrote, Lally had helped reform the LAPD's disciplinary system that Cabrera called "corrupt" through a charter amendment that allowed officers to have their cases heard by all-civilian panels.

"And they are now overwhelmingly prevailing on their matters," Rico wrote. The amendment's passing "caused much consternation within groups that are not friendly to the police including the ACLU, BLM and the LA Times (Google it)."

Cabrera hasn't written Rico back.

Nor, he said, does he plan to end his protest anytime soon.

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Former Salem Police Sgt. Jeffrey Keniston, pictured here in 2014, was fired late last year for alleged misconduct.

Late last year, a longtime Salem Police sergeant was fired amid accusations that he used his position as a domestic violence investigator to initiate a sexual relationship with a domestic violence survivor.

But despite the firing and misconduct investigation, Jeffrey Keniston was hired by the neighboring Aumsville Police Department five months later.

Oregon's Department of Public Safety Standards and Training, the agency that certifies and licenses all law enforcement officers in the state, moved on Aug. 31 to revoke Keniston's police certifications.

The proposed revocation letter signed by DPSST director Phil Castle states that Keniston lied, violated moral fitness, disregarded his duty to protect vulnerable victims and showed a lack of integrity.

The letter was delivered Sept. 6 to Keniston, Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack and Aumsville Police Chief Damian Flowers.

Keniston was given 20 days to request a hearing to contest the revocation.

Investigation, firing

Keniston was hired as an officer with Salem Police in 2004 after previously working as a Stayton Police sergeant and officer for six years. He rose in the ranks, getting promoted to corporal in 2015 and to sergeant in 2020. News clips indicate he investigated homicides, assaults and domestic violence cases.

According to DPSST records, he took a leave of absence in September 2022 and was fired in December.

The revocation letter said Keniston was fired for "intentional conduct performed under the color of office for personal gain."

It also accused him of violating the moral fitness standards of law enforcement officers.

"(Keniston) gained an advantage using his position as a domestic violence officer and department-issued equipment and resources to contact a domestic violence victim he was assigned to follow up with for personal gain, which included sexual contact," officials said in the letter. "(His) discharge for cause was also for disregarding his duty to protect vulnerable persons for his own personal interests, untruthfulness during the investigations into his conduct and lack of integrity."

When asked about Keniston's firing, Salem Police officials declined to comment on confidential personnel matters but said when the department learned of the alleged misconduct, leaders initiated a personnel investigation and requested an outside agency, the Beaverton Police Department, to investigate potential criminal conduct.

Marion County District Attorney's Office officials said they reviewed a Beaverton Police investigation into Keniston's actions in May 2022.

The office determined that "there was insufficient evidence to pursue criminal charges" against the former sergeant.

When the criminal investigation was complete, Salem Police finished its administrative investigation and fired Keniston in December.

"The information contained in the Notice of Proposed Revocation of Certifications issued by DPSST is consistent with our conclusions," Salem Police officials said Thursday. "The Salem Police Department fully investigates all alleged misconduct and takes appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination, when any member of our organization is found to have violated policy or our strict standards of ethical and moral behavior."

No comment on Keniston

On May 15, Aumsville Police officials posted on their Facebook page that Keniston was sworn in as an officer with the department, bringing in 24 years of experience.

Aumsville Police Chief Damian Flowers did not respond to multiple requests from the Statesman Journal for comments on whether he knew of the misconduct allegations when he hired Keniston.

Aumsville City Administrator Ron Harding declined to comment specifically on Keniston's hiring but said all police officers must maintain their DPSST certification to serve at any police department in Oregon.

"DPSST is responsible for reviewing any information that questions a given officer's code of conduct, and their final order will determine the fit for duty of those officers under review," Harding said. "We rely on the professionals at DPSST to make such a determination after it has completed its internal process."

DPSST records list Keniston as an employee at the Aumsville Police Department and the city's website list him as an officer.

For questions, comments and news tips, email reporter Whitney Woodworth at wmwoodworth@statesmanjournal.com, call 503-910-6616 or follow on Twitter at @wmwoodworth

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Fired Salem Police sergeant now works for neighboring agency
Firefighter Rod MacKinnon, left, and Lt. Chris Stevens don their turnout gear as they respond to a call at the Engine 21 fire station, Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023, in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)

BOSTON (AP)  Boston firefighter Daniel Ranahan had heard about colleagues getting cancer but he was stunned when doctors discovered a tumor in his chest.

He was only 30 and had been in the Boston Fire Department less than a decade. But as he investigated his diagnosis of Hodgkins lymphoma in October 2020 and sought successful treatment, he learned he and others wore gear that contained the toxic industrial compound PFAS.

You always hear about the dangers. You just never think it's going be you, said Ranahan, who stopped working due to the cancer and is among thousands of firefighters nationwide who sued PFAS manufacturers and companies that make firefighting gear and foam, seeking damages for their exposure.

These guys put this on day in and day out to protect neighborhoods and wherever they are working," he said. The Associated Press was not given access to his doctors due to the ongoing litigation, making it difficult to independently verify his claims.

The multi-layered coats and pants worn by firefighters have become the latest battleground over PFAS, or per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances. It's found in everything from food packaging to clothing and is associated with health problems including several types of cancer. In March, the Environmental Protection Agency for the first time proposed limits on the chemicals in drinking water.

The news that PFAS compounds are in their gear  primarily meant to repel water and contaminants like oil and prevent moisture-related burns  is worrisome to firefighters.

The International Association of Fire Fighters or IAFF says that cancer has replaced heart disease as the biggest cause of line-of duty deaths. Firefighters have been shown to be at higher risk than the general population of getting several types of cancer.

Firefighters are exposed to a laundry list of carcinogens coming from fires burning hotter and faster than ever before  often due to increased petroleum products in homes. But as they learn more about PFAS, firefighters have grown suspicious that their personal protective equipment or PPE is sickening them.

We had no idea that the gear that we were putting on every day was essentially loaded with PFAS, said IAFF General President Edward Kelly, who was elected in 2021 on a campaign in part to address dangers of PFAS in gear.

Sam Dillon, president of Boston Firefighters, Local 718, said the union had to act.

When we break it down, the problem to us becomes very simple, he said. There is proven science that PFAS is a known carcinogen. There is also proven science that PFAS is in protective gear that firefighters wear. So when its brought to our attention that there is a known carcinogen in the protective ensemble that our members wear, it is grave concern to the union and it's our job to address that issue.

One defendant in the lawsuits, 3M Co., said in a statement that it manufactures a variety of personal protective equipment products that meet nationally recognized standards to help protect first responders facing high-hazard environments. Last year, the company announced it would stop manufacturing PFAS by the end of 2025 and would work to discontinue using the chemicals in its products.

Another defendant, W. L. Gore & Associates, says the PFAS compound PTFE used in its clothing is nontoxic and safe.

Based on the body of available and reliable science, Gore concludes its firefighting products are not the cause of cancers impacting firefighters, who by the nature of their important work are sometimes exposed to cancer-causing chemicals from fires, said company spokesperson Amy Calhoun.

The American Chemistry Council said in a statement that PFAS-based materials are the only viable options for some key equipment that meet the vital performance properties required for firefighting gear.

HEIGHTENED CONCERNS ABOUT GEAR

The PFAS has been in the gear for decades. But the wife of retired Worcester, Massachusetts fire lieutenant Paul Cotter who had cancer raised concerns about PFAS in gear in 2016. Until then, many firefighters had not heard of PFAS or did not know it was in their gear.

Gear makers told Diane Cotter there were only trace amounts of PFAS and it was safe. I was attacked by firefighters when discussing the idea that chemicals in the gear could be causing cancer, she said.

Cotter sent patches of gear to Graham Peaslee, a University of Notre Dame professor who studies PFAS, for testing.

It was loaded with PFAS. That was the first eye opening moment that there may be more than just trace amounts, said Peaslee, who also found the chemicals on gloves and in firehouse dust.

"They come off and they pose risks, he said.

Courtney Carignan, an exposure scientist and epidemiologist at Michigan State University, said she found PFAS at twice the levels of the general population in the blood of more than half of the 18 firefighters she tested in Nantucket and Fall River, Massachusetts. She also found PFAS in gear was transferred to the skin of firefighters.

But Carignan is still investigating how much the gear contributed to increased levels of PFAS in the blood and whether PFAS exposure may be causing or contributing to cancer.

"Even though we know PFAS is in the gear, we still dont know how much exposure that is," she said.

FIREFIGHTERS TAKE ACTION

The revelation of PFAS in the gear sparked a campaign by firefighters to find safer alternatives and to hold companies responsible.

Lawsuits on behalf of firefighters argue they were exposed to significant PFAS levels and companies knew the gear contained PFAS and that it can cause serious health problems. The suits also allege companies misrepresented their products as safe.

The IAFF, which represents more than 340,000 U.S. and Canadian firefighters, decided in 2021 to no longer accept sponsorships or advertising from the chemical industry and to oppose PFAS in turnout gear. A Congressional bill introduced in July would accelerate the search for safer alternatives and support firefighter training to reduce exposure from existing gear.

Seven states including Washington, New Hampshire and New York passed bills requiring companies to disclose PFAS in their gear, according to Safer States, a coalition of environmental health groups. Several more states introduced or enacted bills this year that provide funds to purchase PFAS-free gear or prohibit manufacture or sale of gear containing the chemicals, according to Emily Sampson, an environment policy analyst at the National Conference of State Legislatures.

NO EASY FIX

For most fire departments, there is no easy fix. Replacing gear is expensive  one set can cost upwards of $4,000  and finding alternatives has proven challenging. Some companies are promoting a PFAS-free outer layer but that doesn't solve the problem because the other two layers still contain PFAS, the IAFF said.

Among the hurdles, according to a IAFF lawsuit filed in March, is that the National Fire Protection Association or NFPA standard for gear can only be met with PFAS-infused material. The suit accuses the NFPA of working with several gear makers to maintain that requirement. It seeks damages and an end to the standard.

Chris Dubay, NFPA vice president and chief engineer, said in a statement that the standard does not specify or require the use of any particular materials, chemicals or treatments for that gear." He said the group has no "special agreements or relationships with any company or organization in development of standards.

The manufacturers who are producing this gear owe it to the fire service to come up with an alternative, Brockton Fire Chief Brian Nardelli, who has heard of companies promoting gear with less PFAS but is reluctant to buy it for his 231-member department without more proof.

Instead, his department tries to limit firefighter exposure to gear that's been integral to firefighter identity. They would take it everywhere, including charity events. Now, Brockton discourages firefighters from wearing turnout gear in living quarters and encourages them to wash it after fires. It's stored on trucks and is only to be worn for serious calls like fires and car accidents.

Guys have seen everyone who has gotten cancer, guys dying from cancer, said William Hill, the president of the Brockton Fire Fighters Local 144 who was successfully treated for testicular cancer. Being told that PFAS is in the gear, guys don't want to take the chance of being overexposed."

___

Follow Michael Casey on X, formerly Twitter: @mcasey1

___

Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives support from several private foundations. See more about APs climate initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
The pain surged throughout her lower body.

Navy chaplain Mercedes Petitfrere, 20 weeks pregnant with her first child, rushed to the emergency room at her military hospital in Jacksonville, N.C. Her abdomen throbbed. She could hardly walk. It hurt to pee. A midwife at Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune attributed her pain to fibroids. But Petitfrere - a 35-year-old Black lieutenant whose pregnancy was considered high-risk because of her age - explained that she'd had the benign growths in her uterus for a long time, and that they had never caused any pain.

Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post.

The hospital, she later said in a claim filed with the Navy, ignored her distress, told her fibroid pain was normal during pregnancy and expressed no concern about their discovery that she was having contractions. That day, Petitfrere was sent home and took prescription-strength Tylenol that was given to her by the midwife.

The Defense Department later argued that Lejeune's hospital - which helps serve nearly 46,000 active-duty service members and their families on a military base with the country's greatest concentration of Marines - "met the standard of care" and that it handled her case without "any negligent act or omission."

Two days later, Petitfrere returned to the hospital. This time, she was spotting - she'd found blood in her underwear. She was still having contractions, and now, medical records show, her cervix was rapidly shortening, a sign of preterm labor. But the hospital treated her like a "nuisance," she alleged in her claim, and said she and her baby were fine.

She wasn't, though. By the next morning, on Dec. 20, 2018, Petitfrere was writhing in pain. She couldn't stand or put on her uniform to go to work. She and her husband, Louis Petitfrere, at the time a fellow Navy chaplain, knew she needed medical attention right away. But she refused to go back to Lejeune. Instead, they raced to a nearby civilian hospital, where she couldn't answer intake questions because she was screaming.

Three hours later, Petitfrere delivered a stillborn son. She and Louis had chosen a name for him when they'd first learned they were having a boy: Primas. He weighed less than a pound - 277 grams - and was 9 1/2 inches long.

The stillbirth was devastating, Petitfrere said in an interview, crying often as she recounted its impact on her and Louis.

They'd met at officer development school in 2016. He was a pastor from Southern California. She'd spent time in Africa as a missionary and worked as a chaplain resident at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital in Virginia.

When Petitfrere first considered joining the Navy, she was worried the change of stations and possible deployments overseas might hinder her chances of having a family. She'd lost her mother to suicide before her 3rd birthday, and her father, who served in the Army, was often deployed, so his parents and sister helped raise her. She'd been praying for a husband and children her entire life and knew she would feel incomplete without them.

She was reassured by the Navy recruiter who had found her resume online. "He said, 'You're going to be married and have a child before you leave your first duty station,'" Petitfrere recalled. "I looked at him with my mouth open. I knew the Lord was speaking through him."

In 2018, when she and Louis were both assigned to Camp Lejeune, they got married and rented a four-bedroom with plenty of room for all the children they wanted to have together. Primas was going to have brothers and sisters.

Now, two dozen or so of their friends and relatives gathered at a Jacksonville funeral home for their baby's memorial service. Petitfrere knew the red-brick building with white shutters well because she'd presided over services for veterans there. Inside, lullabies played on the speakers. A friend sang a gospel song. Another delivered a eulogy that Louis said gave them comfort in their anguish over the son whose name in Latin means "first" and whom he so badly wanted to call by the nickname, "Prime."

Right after the service, Petitfrere told a friend that she wanted to sue the military hospital for medical malpractice.

But her friend, a Navy nurse, shocked her by telling her she couldn't, Petitfrere recalled. A decades-old Supreme Court decision bars service members from suing the U.S. government for any injuries or harm they suffer that arise from their military service, regardless of whether it occurred in a combat zone or on a training mission or during medical treatment at a base hospital.

"Losing a child is painful regardless of the circumstances," Petitfrere said, "but losing a child in the manner in which I lost mine - begging for help, being disregarded, sent away, made to feel as if it was all in my head, and being physically handled roughly by people who were supposed to help me - has eroded my general sense of safety. I went through a deep depression after losing my son. The grief of losing him was compounded by the horror I felt when I realized that I was surrounded by people who could help me, but they just refused to. That is not a feeling I will forget."

She grieved Primas even as she gave birth to a daughter, became a chaplain at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia, and got pregnant for a third time. In late 2020, when she was a few months away from delivering a second daughter, she heard about a new law designed to help service members like her: The Sgt. First Class Richard Stayskal Military Medical Accountability Act. Named after a Green Beret whose military hospital failed to recognize his lung cancer, the law allows troops to file claims within the Defense Department that allege medical malpractice by military health-care providers.

"This was a divine thing," Petitfrere said.

- - -

A new system 'sabotaged'

In December 2020, Petitfrere filed a malpractice claim under the Stayskal Act, seeking $5 million in damages for the medical care she received at Lejeune.

It was not a lawsuit. The Supreme Court ruled unanimously in 1950 that the government could not be held liable "for injuries to servicemen where the injuries arise out of or are in the course of activity incident to service." The decision, known as the "Feres doctrine," was named after one of the men involved in the lawsuits examined by the court. After Army officer Rudolph Feres was killed in a barracks fire in northern New York, his widow had sued the U.S. government.

In its ruling against Feres's widow and the others, the court pointed to the availability of veterans benefits to pay for injuries suffered on the job and said if Congress had wanted to give service members the right to sue, it would have laid out in the law whether financial judgments would replace or supplement those benefits. Four years later, the court reaffirmed its ruling, saying that allowing soldiers to sue for negligence would weaken the military's ability to maintain discipline.

Over the years, the "Feres doctrine" has faced harsh criticism, including from a near-majority of Supreme Court justices in 1987. In a case involving a Coast Guard pilot whose helicopter crashed into the side of a mountain on the Hawaiian island of Molokai, the late Justice Antonin Scalia, joined by three other members of the court, wrote a dissenting opinion that declared Feres "clearly wrong" and cited its "unfairness and irrationality." But five justices voted to uphold it, ruling that permitting such lawsuits would interfere with military discipline.

For service members and their relatives, the impact of Feres has been sweeping, shutting down lawsuits alleging sexual assaults, exposure to radiation, even being given LSD by military researchers without consent.

In 2019, federal lawmakers tried to carve out one exception to the doctrine: giving soldiers, sailors and airmen a chance to sue for improper medical care. Then-congresswoman Jackie Speier (D-Calif.) introduced the Stayskal Act, which would have allowed service members to file lawsuits alleging malpractice at nearly 700 military treatment facilities around the world, except for those in combat zones.

But the proposal ran into opposition from the Pentagon, which believed malpractice lawsuits would hamper medical decision-making and military readiness, and, from at least one prominent member of Congress, Sen. Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.), who thought the bill would expose the Defense Department to too many lawsuits.

So a compromise was reached: When the Stayskal Act was added to the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act, the final version only permitted service members to file administrative claims with the Defense Department - not lawsuits in federal court.

Still, Petitfrere hoped the new process would allow her to prove that Lejeune was responsible for Primas's death.

"I thought that the Navy would want erring service members to be held accountable so that the larger body of their servicemen and women would have access to good medical care," said Petitfrere, now 40, and the deputy command chaplain at Quantico.

Her claim alleged that Lejeune provided medical attention that was "grossly beneath the standard of care and cost Primas Petitfrere his life and forever altered the Petitfrere family."

Lejeune's staff minimized her discomfort, she contended in the claim, because she was "yet another Black woman experiencing fibroids." At one point, a doctor Petitfrere said was Black asked her, according to her claim, "who told [her] it was a good idea to become pregnant if she had fibroids." And when she asked for stronger pain medication, Lejeune's staff said no, citing an opioid crisis in the military, even though she had no history of substance abuse. Eventually the hospital relented, and gave her acetaminophen intravenously, her claim said.

"If Mrs. Petitfrere were a pregnant White woman seeking critical medical attention at Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune, one must wonder if somebody would have listened to her cries for help," her claim stated. "If she were a pregnant White woman pleading for assistance, she would not have been accused of seeking to abuse drugs or been asked why she thought it was a good idea to get pregnant in the first place. If Mrs. Petitfrere had been a pregnant White woman who went to the Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune's emergency room, her son may still be alive today."

The hospital referred questions from The Post about Petitfrere's allegations to the Defense Health Agency, which oversees the military's clinics, hospitals and medical centers. Peter Graves, the agency's chief of media relations, said it was "inappropriate" to discuss individual medical malpractice claims.

Black women often face skepticism or indifference when they seek medical care for pain or other problems during their pregnancies, according to a new study by the United Nations on Black maternal mortality around the world. It found that African American women and teens in the United States were three times more likely to die while pregnant or in the six weeks after giving birth than White women in the country.

When she filed her claim, Petitfrere didn't realize the long odds she faced to win a settlement. The vast majority of service members or their loved ones who file Stayskal Act claims get rejected. And that included Stayskal himself, whose claim was denied earlier this year. He is appealing.

Just 17 out of 502 medical malpractice claims filed with the military's three major branches have yielded financial settlements as of mid-2023, according to the Army, Navy and Air Force. Another 134 have been denied. The rest are being reviewed, are under or eligible for appeal, or have been withdrawn. The claims have sought a total of $3.77 billion in damages, but only $3.95 million has been given out in the 17 settlements.

The Pentagon could not provide a breakdown of the claims by hospital, and neither could spokespeople for the three major military branches. But, according to Natalie Khawam and Alan Ripka, lawyers whose firm represents Stayskal and at least 150 service members, they include allegations of malpractice at some of the military's largest and most prominent hospitals, including Walter Reed National Medical Military Center in Bethesda, Md.

"I was convinced that this was going to be a way of getting compensation to the service members and their families expeditiously, without the problems associated with lawsuits, which can go on forever," said Speier, who retired from Congress in January. "What's so painful is that the Stayskal Act was a huge win for our service members, but the administrative system that has been created has really sabotaged it."

Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) and several others in Congress agree that the new system isn't working. In June, they introduced the Healthcare Equality and Rights for Our Heroes Act, which would do the same thing the original version of the Stayskal Act was going to do - allow members of the armed forces to file lawsuits for injuries and deaths caused by improper medical care at military hospitals.

"Congressman Issa believes a good idea like this one - that meets a pressing need and has a clear legislative purpose - can gain widespread support and become law," his spokesman, Jonathan Wilcox, said. "He's not concerned about any of his colleagues or the Defense Department that might not yet agree."

The military still opposes allowing service members to file malpractice lawsuits, a Defense Department spokeswoman said. Graham, a retired Air Force lawyer and the ranking Republican of the Senate Judiciary Committee, declined an interview request through a spokeswoman.

For Petitfrere, trying to navigate the current system was daunting because it was so opaque. She didn't know which experts were examining her case, if they had conflicts of interest, or if they had the right qualifications. Nor did she know the identities of all of the military officials who would vote on her case. Unlike in a lawsuit, she wasn't privy to the government's evidence.

She hired a medical expert, James Wheeler, an OB/GYN in Houston who has a law degree and frequently testifies in medical malpractice cases. After examining her medical records, he wrote a detailed report submitted in October 2021 with a damning conclusion: "Due to the negligent healthcare provided Ms. Petitfrere at [Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune] on 12/19/2018, she lost her first pregnancy to preterm labor and delivery."

Wheeler found that Lejeune's medical staff failed to recognize Petitfrere's risk factors for and symptoms of preterm labor. If the hospital had kept her under observation for the "standard" four to six hours - as Petitfrere desired, according to her claim - instead of sending her home, she probably would have been diagnosed with preterm labor and given proper treatment.

He noted that images taken at Lejeune on the day before her stillbirth showed the length of her cervix had shortened - in the span of three minutes - from 4.46 centimeters to 3.31 centimeters. A cervical length of less than 2.5 centimeters is linked to a greater risk of preterm birth for pregnancies between 16 and 24 weeks, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

"The images are a hammer over the head - not a tap on the shoulder - indicating preterm labor," Wheeler told The Post in an interview.

Petitfrere's preterm labor, he concluded in his report, was probably caused by increased contractions, which were possibly aggravated by fibroids. He attributed her successful pregnancies following the stillbirth to injectable progesterone, a hormone that calms the uterus.

He cited a doctor, a registered nurse, and a certified nurse midwife at Lejeune for their "departures from standards of care."

Two months later, in December 2021, Kristina Schlieter, a tort claims attorney with the Navy's Office of the Judge Advocate General in Norfolk, emailed Petitfrere's lawyer, David Sheldon, saying that the military's expert reviewed Wheeler's report. The standard of care, she said, was met. A formal rejection letter of the malpractice claim, called an "initial determination," was en route.

When Sheldon asked to see the written opinion of the expert that the government consulted - and to depose that expert - Schlieter denied his request.

"Our investigations are done in expectation of litigation and are work product and privileged," Schlieter wrote him. "Consequently, you are not getting any opinions we have and are not deposing anyone."

Sheldon was stunned. The military, he said, appears to want two contradictory things: a law that bars service members from suing the military for medical malpractice - and the excuse not to share its expert reports out of fear of getting sued for medical malpractice.

When the Navy's denial letter was issued, on Jan. 24, 2022, it offered no explanation.

"The damages alleged did not result from any negligent act or omission on the part of an employee of the United States," Schlieter wrote. "Accordingly, your client's claim is denied."

Schlieter did not reply to a list of emailed questions from The Post. Instead, the questions were forwarded to Patricia Babb, a Navy spokeswoman, who said the Navy "does not comment on specific cases, due to privacy reasons."

In her letter, Schlieter said Petitfrere was welcome to appeal, the final step in the claims process. In April 2022, the Defense Department's Military Medical Malpractice Claims Appeals Board rejected her, too.

The letter, signed by the board's chair, Gregory Girard, contained no explanation. Nor was there a list of the people who examined and voted on Petitfrere's case.

Girard did not reply to an emailed list of questions. The appeals board, Graves said, is made up of Defense Department attorneys who are experienced in medical malpractice and who have not played a prior role in the claim that they evaluate. He added that the Pentagon in August 2022 amended its regulations and now requires "a meaningful" explanation "that includes the specific basis for the denial."

That change came too late for Petitfrere.

In June 2022, she took the unusual step of filing a lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, asking a federal judge to vacate the military's initial denial of her claim and to send her case back to the Defense Health Agency for a new decision and potential appeals process.

Her lawsuit argued that the Defense Department's rejection of her claim was "cursory and boilerplate." In a separate motion, her lawyer called the system "an affront to what Congress intended when it changed the law so dramatically to allow for medical malpractice claims to be brought in such circumstances."

Last month, U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth dismissed her case. While he extended his sympathy to Petitfrere - for both "her anguish at the stillbirth and her frustration at medical personnel not taking her concerns seriously" - the judge said the law left him "powerless to second-guess" the Defense Department's decision.

Now, she's appealing Lamberth's ruling. She isn't done seeking accountability for Primas.

- - -

Pain and prayers

Petitfrere was screaming and crying for help when she and Louis arrived at Onslow Memorial Hospital at 8:13 a.m. on Dec. 20, 2018. Her cervix was six centimeters dilated and completely thinned. The fetal membranes encasing her baby were bulging. Soon, they ruptured, depriving him of protection from the uterus's forceful contractions.

At 10:59 a.m., a doctor delivered Primas.

"I thought if they left the baby on my chest," Petitfrere said, "he would come back to life."

She'd known that her age alone put her at higher risk during any pregnancy. A fertility assessment she'd taken earlier that year indicated that she had fibroids, but the medical staff, she said, told her that their size and location should not thwart her chances of getting pregnant.

She also understood that fibroids might complicate her pregnancy. Over the years, she had come across articles showing that Black women suffer from fibroid pain more intensely than White women.

But Petitfrere had no trouble getting pregnant. On the day she'd tested positive, she slipped the pregnancy stick under Louis's pillow before they went to sleep. When he found the pink-and-white object under his head, he stared in awe at the double lines.

"Everyone was elated," Louis said.

The day after the stillbirth, a Lejeune staffer called Petitfrere, who "expressed concern about the care she received" at Lejeune, and "concern about her concerns being taken seriously," according to her medical records.

But the staffer also wrote in her notes that Petitfrere had stated "that she is aware that her miscarriage could not have been prevented" - an assertion that Petitfrere vigorously disputes.

"They wrote that to protect themselves," Petitfrere declared. "What I said was, 'I understand that sometimes you can't prevent a child from dying, but you can do all that you can do to prevent it from happening.'"

When they got home from Onslow, she and Louis cried and prayed. Their marriage, both said in interviews, grew stronger. She was granted a month of work leave.

A Bible verse, Jeremiah 29:11, brought them comfort when a trusted friend wrote it in a letter, dated on the day of Primas's death: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

"We were grieving our son, and trying unsuccessfully to conceive again, and grieving the fact that we did not know if I would ever be able to conceive again or carry a baby to term," she said, "It was such a painful time. But that letter marked a turning point in our grief. We did not know if the Lord's goodness would ever look like more children for us, but we did know the Lord was good and that we could trust Him, and so we did."

- - -

'Four children, not three'

Nowadays, Petitfrere shuttles between her job at Marine Corps Base Quantico and her home in Spotsylvania, Va. As deputy command chaplain, she presides over funerals, Sunday services, and retirement and promotion ceremonies.

When she and Louis relocated from North Carolina, they chose to live 50 miles away from the nearest military base, a distance that allowed her to seek medical care at closer civilian instead of military hospitals. Her three children born since Primas's death were all delivered at Mary Washington Healthcare hospitals: Giselle, 3, Farrah, 2, and Solomon, nine months.

But every day, she and Louis grieve for Primas. Petitfrere is so traumatized by her treatment at Lejeune that she has considered leaving the military, fearing she'll have to deploy and won't have the flexibility to see civilian physicians for herself or her three children.

"I have loved the ministry with Marines and sailors. But there was no accountability. Nothing. Not even a proper, 'I'm sorry.' They won't say that because that would admit guilt," Petitfrere said. "It's one thing to be in the military and you put your safety at risk from an enemy force in a war, but not from the people you work for who are supposed to protect you. I also could have died - and they would have let me. It's very hard as a chaplain to represent an organization that I do not trust.

"I should have four children, not three."

Petitfrere and Louis keep a purple box on a shelf next to her side of the bed. Inside is the positive pink and white pregnancy test. Black and white ultrasounds of Primas. His tiny footprints taken on a white card. A small red urn, engraved with a silver flower. And a card that reads, "Happy Birthday Primas."

"I am grateful I was able to hold you and touch your little body," Louis wrote on the card's left side. "I loved kissing you through mommy's belly and speaking to you."

"You are our first son. Happy birthday my love," Petitfrere wrote on the right side. "We will see you again. Mommy loves you dearly. Speak to the Lord on our behalf, we need it."

Related Content

Extreme heat brings hidden risk for people with mental health issue

At Telluride, screening a film about Jimmy Buffett, without him
Anything can happen out in the open ocean.

For Florida brothers Jay and Alan Charron, the ocean brought a once-in-a-lifetime sighting.

The brothers, along with other anglers, were out on Alan Charrons boat, the Corkscrew, on Sept. 11, about 100 miles offshore, according to a Facebook post from Jay Charron.

Alan Charron, a Fort Pierce, Florida-based charter captain, brought the group out on a mission to find yellowfin tuna, Jay Charron told WOFL.

But then they started to see water blow up from the waves, followed by large black fins.

Just a few hundred feet from the boat was a pod of orcas.

Jay Charron shared photos and videos of the sighting on Facebook and said, I think they are camera shy.

When the whale comes up out of the water and blows its thing up like that, you see the dorsal fin  its unmistakable, Jay Charron told WOFL. Its something you see at SeaWorld, never out in the world and definitely not on the East Coast.

Alan Charron also shared videos on his Instagram page.

Orcas, or killer whales, do make the rare appearance off Floridas coastline, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

However, its more common to see the whales in colder climates, NOAA says, like the Arctic, Norway and Alaska.

Fort Pierce is about 130 miles north of Miami.

Boaters get breathtaking glimpse at the biggest fish in the world. See the video

Rare and dangerous creature has babies at Florida zoo. See the scaly hatchlings

Elusive baby creature spotted in California creek for first time in 160 years, video shows

Bear cubs with desire to inflict chaos keep wrecking trail cams, Minnesota group says
A decomposed body was found in the trunk of a sedan in Duluth, Georgia (Gwinnett County Police Department)

Five people have been arrested after a dead body was discovered in the trunk of a car in Duluth, Georgia.

Gwinnett County Police responded to a report of suspicious activity on Tuesday around 10.50pm outside Jeju Sauna. Someone called 911, saying he thought there was a dead body inside of a car, according to the news release.

Officers did in fact find a body in the trunk of a silver Jaguar sedan, according to Fox 5.

The owner of Jeju Sauna looked at surveillance video and told the outlet that the footage captured a man pulling up to the spa in the Jaguar alongside a Mercedes on Tuesday morning. The owner added that the man looked in the Jaguar trunk before getting into the Mercedes and taking off.

Later that night, the owner told the outlet, the video showed the Mercedes returning  just as police arrived at the scene.

There was a foul odour from the trunk, the owner added, suggesting that the body had been there for a while.

Due to the bodys decomposed state, investigators couldnt identify the victims gender, police told WSB-TV. On Tuesday, police referred to the victim as her. Police said on Thursday that the victims next of kin has not yet been notified, as her family does not reside in the United States so they are not yet publishing her name.

The victim reportedly had been starved and beaten for weeks, the arrest warrants obtained by the outlet described. Police told the outlet that they believe the suspects began starving the victim on 3 August, although its unclear when exactly the victim died.

TV news channel WSBTV reported that the discovery led police to what the station called a house of horrors in Lawrenceville, where the victim is believed to have died after starved and beaten for weeks.

House in Lawrenceville, Georgia, searched by police after a dead body was found in the back of a car (WSB-TV)

Five people were arrested on Wednesday and have since been charged in connection to the murder, the outlet added.

Four adults  Joonhyun Lee, 22, Joonho Lee, 26, Hyunji Lee, 25, and Gawon Lee, 26  have been arrested and charged with felony murder, false imprisonment, tampering with evidence and concealing a death, according to arrest records. A minor  thought to be 14 years old  was reportedly also arrested on murder charges although they are currently in hospital for unknown reasons, WSB-TV reported.

Police have not yet released the victims identity  but they believe that the victim could have known or been related to the suspects, the outlet said.

Jeju Sauna released a statement to the publication on Wednesday, explaining that the incident had absolutely nothing to do with the business, but merely happened in the parking lot.

The safety and well-being of our customers have always been our utmost priority, the statement said. We are fully cooperating with local law enforcement authorities who are currently investigating the matter. We are confident that they will bring those responsible to justice swiftly.
I flew Icelandair from New York City's JFK Airport to Keflavik International Airport in Iceland.

Iceland's official airline featured touches like Icelandic greetings and menu items.

Icelandair's carry-on allowance was smaller than I expected, so I had to gate-check my bag.

For my first-ever trip to Iceland, I decided to fly the country's flagship airline, Icelandair.

I encountered a few surprises along the way, including smaller luggage requirements than I was used to. However, I appreciated the airline's punctual service and unique touches, so I'd definitely fly with them again.

Here's what my experience was like.

I boarded my Icelandair flight at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City.

The gate for my Icelandair flight. Talia Lakritz/Insider

Icelandair is located in terminal seven of JFK. I paid $852.65 for my round-trip economy ticket. Flights are usually bit cheaper, but I booked my ticket just a month before my scheduled departure date.

I ended up having to gate-check my carry-on luggage because it was too large according to Icelandair's baggage-allowance rules.

My oversize carry-on luggage. Talia Lakritz/Insider

I didn't check a bag for my five-day trip to Iceland. While I've taken the same suitcase aboard many flights without issue, Icelandair only allows carry-on bags no larger than 21.6 inches tall, 15.7 inches wide, and 7.8 inches deep.

Thankfully, my carry-on made it to Iceland and I wasn't charged any extra fees.

As I boarded the plane, I passed rows of Saga Premium seats, Icelandair's version of business class.

Saga Premium seats on Icelandair. Talia Lakritz/Insider

Saga Premium seats include two checked bags, Wi-Fi, and complimentary meals among other perks. As I walked past, I noticed that the seats also featured pillows, blankets, bottles of water, and small amenity kits.

Seats in the economy section, where I was sitting, also featured pillows and blankets.

Economy seats on Icelandair. Talia Lakritz/Insider

I sat by the window in a row of three seats. The flight was only about two-thirds full, perhaps because it was so late at night. The middle seat in my row remained empty, which left me with more space than I'd anticipated.

A sign on each seat read "velkomin," which it explained meant "welcome" in Icelandic.

A welcome sign on the seats of Icelandair. Talia Lakritz/Insider

"That's how we want you to feel," the sign read. I appreciated the introductory Icelandic language lesson.

I felt I had ample leg room, even with my large backpack under my seat.

My seat on Icelandair. Talia Lakritz/Insider

I don't usually feel too cramped in airplane seats since I'm not very tall, but I felt I was able to stretch my legs as I settled in for the five-and-a-half hour flight with 32 inches of legroom in economy. The Saga Premium seats feature 40 inches of legroom.

The screen on the back of my seat advertised the Blue Lagoon before playing the safety information video, which got me excited for my visit there.

Screens on Icelandair. Talia Lakritz/Insider

Located about a 20-minute drive from Keflavik Airport, the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is one of Iceland's most recognizable and iconic attractions. I planned for it to be my first stop when I landed, and seeing the footage of its mineral-rich waters made me even more eager to visit.

The flight was scheduled to take off at 11:15 p.m., but it actually left 20 minutes early, a rare occurrence at JFK in my experience.

Mood lighting on Icelandair. Talia Lakritz/Insider

When the cabin crew dimmed the lights for our departure, the orange lighting reminded me of the lava one might see during an eruption of one of Iceland's many volcanoes.

The menu on Icelandair included Icelandic treats like hjonabandssla, also known as a "happy marriage cake."

The menu on Icelandair. Talia Lakritz/Insider

Flight attendants served complimentary non-alcoholic drinks like soda and coffee, but all snacks and food had to be purchased in economy. The cost of the menu items ranged from 500 ISK, or $3.72, to 1300 ISK, or $9.68. Icelandair's official website notes that passengers are welcome to bring their own food on board, which I did.

Icelandair offered foods like pizza, chili, chicken soup, and various sandwiches for purchase in addition to the traditional Icelandic pastry. Made with oats and jam, hjonabandssla is served at Icelandic weddings but is also widely available at bakeries across the country, the Reykjavik Grapevine reported.

I tried my best to get some sleep with the help of a melatonin supplement.

Rows of seats on Icelandair. Talia Lakritz/Insider

Icelandair had a wide selection of movies available, but I opted to recline my seat back and try to sleep through the flight since I'd be landing in the morning. I found the seats to be fairly comfortable. The empty seat next to me also helped me find a suitable sleeping position.

Before I knew it, we were making our descent into Iceland's Keflavik International Airport.

The view from the window on my Icelandair flight. Talia Lakritz/Insider

My flight landed at around 9 a.m. local time in Iceland, a few minutes earlier than our scheduled arrival time.

I was surprised to find that the flight disembarked directly onto the tarmac, not at a gate inside the airport.

Disembarking from the plane. Talia Lakritz/Insider

As I stepped off the plane, I saw shuttles transporting people to and from airport gates. I was able to walk straight into the terminal to go through customs.

I wished that I had packed my winter coat in a more accessible place, but I appreciated that first blast of Icelandic air.

Arriving in Iceland. Talia Lakritz/Insider

When I landed, the weather in Iceland was in the 50s with an overcast sky and a light drizzle. I got lucky with a few perfectly sunny days during my trip, but for the most part, the weather stayed a bit chilly.

Despite the small luggage compartments and lack of free snacks, I would definitely fly Icelandair again.

I flew Icelandair, the official airline of Iceland. Talia Lakritz/Insider

I was impressed by Icelandair's punctuality, and I appreciated the nods to Iceland's language and culture on the flight. I would definitely book another flight on the airline, this time with a smaller suitcase and a few extra snacks.

Read the original article on Insider
Chinese companies expand opportunities at North America's leading clean energy expo

08:33, September 14, 2023 By Tan Jingjing, Gao Shan, Huang Heng ( Xinhua

Photo taken on Sept. 12, 2023 shows a sign of the RE+ 2023 exhibition in Las Vegas, the United States. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

Chinese companies have been taking the lead in offering clean energy solutions globally. Their innovative solar generators, appliances and clean energy solutions got full recognition from their overseas counterparts, and attracted lots of visitors and other exhibitors at the expo.

LAS VEGAS, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese companies took the spotlight at North America's leading clean energy expo held in Las Vegas, U.S. state of Nevada, this week, expanding their influence and opportunities on the global market.

The expo, named "RE+ 2023," draws over 30,000 attendees and more than 1,300 exhibitors around the globe, showcasing the latest equipment, technologies and best practices in clean energy sectors.

Over 300 Chinese companies are participating in the four-day expo, ranging from solar, energy storage, hydrogen, to EV infrastructure, microgrids, wind and more, the expo organizer told Xinhua.

Many well-known Chinese new energy technology companies were on the show floor, including CATL, BYD, CALB, Gotion and DESAY, together with lots of startups.

Chinese companies have been taking the lead in offering clean energy solutions globally. Their innovative solar generators, appliances and clean energy solutions got full recognition from their overseas counterparts, and attracted lots of visitors and other exhibitors at the expo.

People visit the exhibition area of Chinese company Gotion during the RE+ 2023 exhibition in Las Vegas, the United States, on Sept. 12, 2023. (Xinhua/Gao Shan)

Gotion, a leading power battery technology company, joined "RE+ 2023" with an array of clean energy solutions, including residential, commercial and industrial, as well as utility scale energy storage systems.

"RE+ offers a good opportunity to boost our brand awareness in the clean energy field in North America, and also helps us to strengthen connections with our North American and global customers," Jason Hao, director of market and business development of Gotion, told Xinhua.

He said Gotion attaches great importance to the development of overseas markets, and has been adopting different strategies in response to industry policies in different regions.

Earlier this month, Gotion and the U.S. state of Illinois jointly announced a new 2 billion U.S. dollars electric vehicle lithium battery manufacturing plant in Manteno, Illinois. The plant is expected to begin production in 2024.

Hao told Xinhua that Gotion expects to expand its market share on the North America market through localized production and supply chain strategies.

People visit the exhibition area of Chinese company Ampace during the RE+ 2023 exhibition in Las Vegas, the United States, on Sept. 12, 2023. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

For Xiamen Ampace Technology Limited, this is the company's first time to participate in the "RE+" expo with its own brand. The company showcased an array of innovative energy storage solutions at "RE+ 2023," including commercial and industrial energy storage solutions, residential energy storage solution and uninterruptible power supply systems.

Ampace's residential energy storage solution products have accounted for about 30 percent of the global market share, encompassing safety, reliability, operational costs, flexibility, energy density, and intelligent integration, Ethan Wei, director of business development of Ampace's Energy Storage System, told Xinhua.

With Europe, Japan and North America as Ampace's three main overseas markets, the company is also expanding businesses on emerging developing markets, such as South Africa, according to Wei.

"We hope to take the opportunity of RE+, the largest exhibition in the new energy industry, to better contact with our customers from all over the world, and reach out to more potential partners," he told Xinhua.

"We hope to combine our company's advantages in product manufacturing, product research and development, and quality control, with our overseas customers' brands and their sales channels, to offer more China-made high-quality products globally, to contribute to the global clean energy industry," Wei said.

People visit the exhibition area of Chinese company BYD during the RE+ 2023 exhibition in Las Vegas, the United States, on Sept. 12, 2023. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

Bluetti Power Inc., a clean energy startup, showcased their all-in-one home backup solution, energy storage system, and expandable portable power stations at the expo, with its 9000w energy storage system, named EP900, as a highlight.

EP900 features 9000w output, 9000w input and a maximum capacity of 19.8kwh. With an intelligent battery management system and reliable lithium iron phosphate battery pack, the equipment gives its optimal performance regardless of weather conditions, according to the company.

Chunjun Wang, vice president of business development of Bluetti, told Xinhua that China enjoys advantages in the clean energy sector both in terms of technologies and production capacities. "We should maintain our advantage through sustainable development."

"We need to better understand our customers, their habits, needs, different application scenarios. Based on that information, we should upgrade our products with more advanced technologies, and offer customers with safer, more convenient and more environmentally friendly products," Wang said.

A staff member introduces products to visitors at the exhibition area of Chinese company CALB during the RE+ 2023 in Las Vegas, the United States, on Sept. 12, 2023. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

In an interview with Xinhua, Xiang Zheng, vice president of CALB, stressed the importance of innovation.

Innovation-driven development has helped to lay a solid foundation for Chinese companies to stay ahead in the global clean energy market, he said.

Chinese exhibitors always bring the latest technology to North America's leading clean energy expo, the expo's organizer told Xinhua.

"RE+ 2023," running from Monday to Thursday, offers a platform for companies, professionals and educators from around the world to share best practices in clean energy solutions and expand business prospects.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
After a 13-day manhunt that involved hundreds of law enforcement officers, fugitive Danelo Cavalcante was apprehended in southeastern Pennsylvania, police announced Wednesday morning. In large part, they were able to track him down using heat-seeking technology known as FLIR.

Pennsylvania State Police Lt. George Bivens said at a news conference that after a burglar alarm at a residence in South Coventry Township went off shortly after midnight on Wednesday morning, an aircraft using FLIR picked up a heat signal nearby. After waiting out a rainstorm, a tactical team was able to zero in on the thermal image.

It played out very quickly then, Bivens said.

The capture of Cavalcante, a convicted killer, ended what was a tense couple of weeks for the region. He escaped from Chester County Prison in West Chester, Pa., on Aug. 31, leading nearby schools to close and residents to shelter in place out of precaution.

Escaped fugitive Danelo Cavalcante being taken into custody by law enforcement officers on Wednesday. (Pennsylvania State Police/Handout via Reuters)

Read more on Yahoo News: Pennsylvania manhunt: Police finally capture Danelo Cavalcante 2 weeks after prison escape

What is FLIR?

FLIR, which stands for Forward Looking Infrared, refers to the technology used to create an infrared image that portrays objects using their radiated heat, according to Infiniti Electro-Optics, a leader in infrared electro-optics and video surveillance technologies.

Thermal imaging, which is a type of infrared imaging, uses cameras that see heat instead of light and picks up on any object warmer than absolute zero (-273C/-459F). The technology allows an operator to see in complete darkness, unfavorable weather and through air pollutants such as the smoke from fires.

An example of the FLIR thermal imaging used to track missing people. (Teledyne FLIR)

Adam Wandt, an attorney and expert in policing technology, told Yahoo News that FLIR allows humans to see beyond the red in the rainbow spectrum, which includes infrared electromagnetic energy that comes from heat.

What humans are able to see is limited, said Wandt, an assistant professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, who uses FLIR as a teaching tool. So if we are looking for anything in a dense wooden population or a field, FLIR allows us not just to see objects. It allows us to see heat, including where that heat is and where it was because theyve left.

Developed in the early 1960s and used for surveillance and military operations, FLIR technology has been leveraged to work across a number of industries from developments in science to spotting unwanted moisture during building inspections to firefighting and more.

Read more on Yahoo News: The daughter of the woman killed by Pennsylvania prison escapee Danelo Cavalcante told police he said he was going to do something bad to them, via CNN

FLIR imaging systems are fielded on fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters worldwide. (Business Wire via AP)

The Pennsylvania state police aircraft utilizing FLIR technology was able to pick up Cavalvantes heat signal while it was still dark outside and allowed authorities to secure a smaller area around him without being noticed until it was too late for the suspect.

Bivens said that Cavalcante didnt realize he was surrounded and tried to escape before a dog subdued him, leaving a minor bite wound on his scalp.

FLIR controversy

In 1991, FLIR was used to arrest and convict a man accused of growing marijuana inside his home. Though federal agents could not get inside the home, they used an infrared camera to identify suspected heat lamps growing dozens of marijuana plants. In a landmark ruling 10 years later, however, the Supreme Court ruled that using an infrared camera without a warrant constituted an unreasonable search barred by the Fourth Amendment.

To withdraw protection of this minimum expectation would be to permit police technology to erode the privacy guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment, the 5-4 opinion written by then-Justice Antonin Scalia stated.

Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens, right, and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro at a press conference after the capture of Cavalcante. (Ryan Collerd/AFP via Getty Images)

Wandt notes that while it is inevitable that some people will abuse the abilities of FLIR technology, in this case, the courts upheld individual rights.

Theres a downside to people using any technology, including cameras, he said. Could the government be intrusive with it? Yes. But are there Supreme Court cases protecting Americans? Yes. As with any technology, theres the need to use it responsibly no matter what it is.

On Wednesday, because of FLIR, communities across Pennsylvania are now breathing a sigh of relief.

Our nightmare is finally over, Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan said in a statement. And the good guys won.
The state of Florida actually arrested an alleged neo-Nazi this week on charges relating to those stomach-turning antisemitic demonstrations that keep happening in Orlando.

Great. Now can the governor give a speech denouncing neo-Nazis?

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement said a 48-year-old Cape Canaveral man named Jason James Brown was part of a group of camouflage-wearing hatemongers who hung a swastika flag, along with racist and white-power signs, off a bridge so that eastbound Interstate 4 drivers could see them. Three other people are still being sought by FDLE.

Amazingly enough, the FDLE was able to charge Brown with violating a law passed by the Florida Legislature this year and signed by none other than Gov. Ron DeSantis . Called the public nuisances law, the measure makes it illegal to intentionally display or project messages on a property without written consent.

DeSantis had to do something: Hes running for president, and antisemitic incidents have more than doubled in Florida since 2020, according to the Anti-Defamation League. That DeSantis signed the bill during a trip to Jerusalem about three weeks before he announced his candidacy for the GOP nomination was no coincidence.

Florida had the fourth-highest number of such incidents in the country in 2022. The string of Orlando demonstrations has been an assault on human decency. Horrendous, vast swastikas have been projected onto the sides of buildings in Jacksonville and West Palm Beach. Flyers with antisemitic propaganda have been dumped on lawns in Florida communities.

In Tampa last summer, neo-Nazis waved flags with swastikas and white-supremacist SS bolts outside a major Republican conference, Turning Point USAs Student Action Summit. Horrifyingly, among the placards with antisemitic slurs, someone unfurled a DeSantis Country flag.

In July, DeSantis presidential campaign fired a staffer who reportedly either made or retweeted a video that included Nazi imagery superimposed onto the Florida governors face.

Earlier this month outside Disney World, antisemitic groups including the one Brown is allegedly a member of  something called the Order of the Black Sun  performed Hitler salutes and shouted hateful things about Jews.

And in late August, a white gunman with a swastika-emblazoned assault-style rifle killed three Black people at a Dollar General store in Jacksonville.

Yes, its good that the Legislature passed this bill and DeSantis signed it. Even better: The law is being used by diligent members of the law enforcement community to push back on anti-semitism. FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass on Wednesday thanked DeSantis for the signing of HB 269, giving us the tools to arrest this hate-filled radical. Was it deployed in this moment for political purposes, as DeSantis struggles against Donald Trump for the GOP nomination? Who knows. At least it was deployed.

But its no surprise that racists and neo-Nazis and every other hate-filled lowlife have seen this moment, with DeSantis at the helm, as an opening in Florida. And itll take a lot more than one arrest to stop it.















Click here to send the letter.
Florida has asked for a West Richland mother to be returned to the state face charges that she helped plan the murder of her ex-husband.

Floridas governors office has filed paperwork to bring Shanna Gardner, 36, back to the state she called home until early 2023.

She is accused of being part of a murder-for-hire plot to kill Microsoft executive Jared Bridegan.

Deputy Prosecutor Terry Bloor said during a Thursday hearing that the paperwork was issued by Florida on Wednesday. Washingtons governors office is now waiting to receive the documents.

Gardner has been in the Benton County jail for nearly a month after being arrested at her $1 million West Richland home.

The case has garnered national attention and drew several out-of-town news outlets, including Fox and Court TV, to cover Thursdays hearing in Benton County Superior Court in Kennewick.

Florida prosecutors plan to seek the death penalty for Gardner and her husband Mario Fernandez-Saldana. Both are charged in the plot.

The two are accused of orchestrating an elaborate scheme to kill Bridegan in February 2022.

They have both been indicted on charges of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, solicitation to commit first-degree murder and child abuse.

Gardner and Bridegan met while she was visiting a friend in Florida in 2009 and married the next year in Salt Lake City, according to The Florida Times-Union. But after a troubled relationship they filed for divorce in 2015.

The divorce paperwork was filled with hundreds of accusations, but the couple ended up sharing custody of their children.

Prosecutors with Floridas Forth Judicial Circuit claim Gardner and Fernandez-Saldana started planning Bridegans murder sometime after they met at a CrossFit gym in 2018.

Fernandez-Saldana allegedly recruited Henry Tennon, who rented property from him, to shoot Bridegan.

On Feb. 16, 2022, Bridegan dropped off their twins at Gardners house and was driving home with a 2-year-old daughter from another relationship.

Bridegan was shot when he stopped to move a tire out of the middle of the street where he was driving, according to a state attorneys release.

Tennon pleaded guilty to second-degree murder for his role in the shooting.
Florida authorities have arrested a man after he allegedly hung extremist hate symbols including swastikas over a bridge.

On Wednesday, the Florida department of law enforcement (FDLE) announced that 48-year-old Jason Brown of Cape Canaveral was arrested for allegedly hanging swastikas and other antisemitic banners along the Daryl Carter Parkway overpass in Orlando and charged him with criminal mischief.

Authorities said there were three outstanding arrest warrants for additional suspects who live out of state and whose actions were in violation of newly enacted state law, which prohibits individuals from displaying or projecting images on to a building, structure or property without permission.

According to police, the suspects placed the banners along a fence in June without receiving written permission. The banners, which included various racist messages, hung directly over the I-4 highway, police said.

Related: DeSantis and Trump campaigns drawn into angry quarrel over private-jet story

Authorities said Brown claims to be a member of the Order of the Black Sun, an antisemitic extremist hate group described by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) as a small neo-Nazi network based primarily in Florida, which was formed earlier this year by longtime affiliates of the states overlapping white supremacist network.

We want to thank Governor DeSantis for his support of law enforcement and for the signing of HB 269, giving us the tools to arrest this hate-filled radical, the FDLE commissioner, Mark Glass, said in a statement. This activity will not be tolerated in the greatest state in the country: Florida.

Dave Kerner, the executive director of the states department of highway safety and motor vehicles, said: Florida is a law-and-order state. Todays arrest demonstrates Floridas commitment to protecting residents from attention-seeking extremists.

He added: Thank you, Governor DeSantis, for working to rid this state of intimidation, vitriol and hate directed towards people of faith, and for empowering law enforcement to do the same.

Earlier this month, a handful of neo-Nazis including supporters from the extremist hate groups Blood Tribe and the Goyim Defense League paraded through the Orlando area as they shouted racial slurs and waved flags depicting swastikas and other white supremacy symbols.

The ADL condemned the rallies. Its Florida regional director, Sarah Emmons, said: We are deeply outraged by the two extremist demonstrations in the Orlando area. This type of hateful activity has no place in our community.

We call on public officials at the federal, state and local levels to stand up and clearly denounce this hateful activity. We cannot allow for hate and extremist beliefs to become normalized in our society.

The rallies earlier this month came just a week after a 21-year-old gunman left messages of hate before killing three Black people at a dollar store in Jacksonville, Florida, an incident which authorities said was racially motivated.

According to a report released by the ADL in March, antisemitic incidents have reached a record high in the United States, with the organization recording 3,697 antisemitic incidents throughout the country in 2022.

The number marks a 36% increase from the 2,717 incidents recorded in 2021 and is the highest number on record since the ADL started tracking antisemitic incidents in 1979.
Joseph Ladapo , Floridas surgeon general, and Gov. Ron DeSantis  go-to panel of experts on Wednesday attacked federal public health officials for allegedly performing bad science and using Americans as guinea pigs for newly approved coronavirus vaccines.

Ladapo doesnt seem fazed by the hypocrisy of his attacks given that he withheld key data when he recommended young men not get vaccinated last year. A Tampa Bay Times analysis of public records revealed the Department of Health removed from an analysis data that showed contracting COVID-19 could increase the chances of cardiac-related deaths much more than vaccines.

That was irresponsible at best and dishonest at worst, but Florida provides the environment where Ladapo shines.

With COVID-19 cases and hospitalization on the rise, he recommended people under age 65 do not get the new vaccine that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Monday for an omicron variant. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Tuesday recommended everyone 6 months and older get a shot.

Florida COVID cases more than doubled in the last week of August compared to the month before, the Herald reported. Florida has the largest number hospitalizations after California. These numbers pale in comparison to previous waves of the virus, but Floridians should already know that the best way to protect themselves is by getting vaccinated.

As a reminder, Ladapo also promoted two debunked treatments for COVID-19: hydroxychloroquine, which the FDA, based on several clinical trials, says increases the risk of serious heart rhythm problems; and Ivermectin, an antiparasitic drug that a clinical trial with 1,206 COVID patients found wasnt effective, according to a study published this year in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Any doctor that pushes such quackery should be relegated to academic obscurity and ridicule. But in Florida, Ladapo was fast-tracked into a faculty position at the University of Florida College of Medicine. A committee of the UF Faculty Senate last year found college administrators cut corners in his hiring, the Gainesville Sun reported.

Ladapo became the standard-bearer for DeSantis approach to the pandemic, giving it the rubber stamp of a Harvard-trained doctor. The Florida Blueprint, as DeSantis sells it, proved the mainstream scientific community wrong. What that narrative leaves out is that Floridians paid for it with their lives.

During the 2021 delta wave, Florida residents died at a higher rate, adjusted for age, than people in almost every other state, a New York Times analysis of federal data found. The Sunshine State accounted for 14% of the nations deaths between July and October 2021, even though it represents only 7% of the American population.

Most troubling is that vaccines were widely available by then. DeSantis, after initially touting the shots for seniors, helped sow doubt about their effectiveness and safety. Had Florida increased its rates to those seen in five New England states with the largest number of vaccinations, more than 16,000 lives could have been saved, a study published in The Lancet medical journal concluded.

Ladapos latest recommendation doesnt rule out the vaccine for people 65 and older. He instead says that they should discuss the vaccine with their healthcare provider.

His suggestion that younger Floridians are somehow naturally protected from the worst effects of COVID-19 isnt supported by data. Of the states 90,000 COVID-19 deaths, 22% were people under 65, the Herald reported. Of the 23,000 deaths that happened during the delta wave, 39% were among those younger adults, the Times reported. The vast majority of them were unvaccinated or had not finished their two-dose regimen.

For some Floridians, no amount of studies in prestigious journals will persuade them that vaccines work or are safe. Unfortunately, Ladapos target audience is vast and looking for someone with a surgeon generals title to validate their beliefs.

Other Floridians who havent gone down the rabbit hole of misinformation should look elsewhere for reliable medical advice. Would they rather trust someone with a record of data manipulation and of pushing unproven treatments for a lethal virus? Or will they protect themselves with a vaccine that has saved lives and prevented serious illness?

That choice should be easy. Just tune out Floridas surgeon general.

Click here to send the letter.
Mitt Romney is not a foodie. That was made abundantly clear over and over again during his two-decade political careerhis record overflows with horrific crimes against good taste, to the point that Im surprised hes not been tried at the Hague. For instance, Romney has said that his favorite sandwich is peanut butter and honey, and that hot dogsas in, the Frankensteinian amalgam of beef and pork gristle, brutalized into a preservative-rich tubecounted as his favorite meat (as in, like, better than steak, or pulled pork, or even, I dont know, chicken thighs). When Romney was on the cusp of the 2012 Republican nomination, he told reporters that his wife prepares little meatloaf cakes for his birthday dinner every year. Meatloaf cakes! Apparently, these are small saucer-shaped meatloaf patties, glossed with a brown sweet sauce. The reason he likes [the sauce is because] its brown sugar and ketchup, said Ann Romney, to the New York Times.

And thats what I like, replied her husband.

Romney, of course, was the first CEO of the hugely successful consulting firm Bain & Company and is still one of the richest sitting senators in congress. (OpenSecrets estimates his net worth to be somewhere around $175 million.) He has rubbed shoulders with high society throughout the entirety of his adult life and managed to rebound from his failed presidential bid to become a respected bipartisan figure in the hearts and minds of liberal idealistswhat with all his BLM advocacy and frequent criticism of Donald Trump. However, Romney did always carry one congenital flaw throughout his public aspirations; the man was forever a little too weird for national political success. It is one of the greatest paradoxes in modern electoral history, a circle he could never square. Here is a savvy, wealthy, good-looking man from the pristine enclaves of the Boston suburbs, absolutely chowing down on a cupcake-sized wad of meatloaf, probably while in a private jet. (In that sense, Romney has plenty in common with countless other GOP lifers, like Scott Walker and John Cornyn, who frequently put their nauseating epicurean instincts on full display.)

This week, Romney confirmed that he wont be seeking reelection for his Senate term, which is expiring in 2025, likely marking the end of his public life. But just before hes gone for good, he offered us one last kernel of disorienting food gore, reminding us, once and for all, why he was never fit for the Oval Office. Heres the outgoing senator, in an excerpt of the upcoming biography Romney: A Reckoning, by McKay Coppins.

In the dining room, a 98-inch TV went up on the wall and a leather recliner landed in front of it. Romney, who didnt have many real friends in Washington, ate dinner alone there most nights, watching Ted Lasso or Better Call Saul as he leafed through briefing materials. On the day of my first visit, he showed me his freezer, which was full of salmon filets that had been given to him by Lisa Murkowski, the senator from Alaska. He didnt especially like salmon but found that if he put it on a hamburger bun and smothered it in ketchup, it made for a serviceable meal.

Computer, enhance.

He didnt especially like salmon but found that if he put it on a hamburger bun and smothered it in ketchup, it made for a serviceable meal.

Thats the Romney experience in a nutshell. Its emblematic of so many unsettling qualitiesa primal fear of new flavors and cultures, an elemental mistrust of the ocean, and most flagrantly, a lifelong belief that everything goes better with ketchup. To truly know the man, you must absolutely desecrate a prime cut of Alaskan salmon in front of the TV. So thats why, during last nights grocery run, I asked the fishmonger for a pound of wrapped filets and a bottle of Heinz, ready to internalize the dark essence of Romney.

If you want to be extremely charitable, ketchup and salmon is not a total mismatch of flavor profiles. There are countless variations of seafood-and-tomato stews across the Mediterranean (although most of those tend to be made with shellfish, or cod, or tilapia), so perhaps you can interpret a salmon filet slathered with ketchup to be something akin to the saddest bouillabaisse ever, or a terrible disfiguration of the Adriatic good life. At least, thats what I kept telling myself as I pan-seared a resplendent pink cutcoated with salt and pepperuntil it was delightfully flaky, with the scales crisping off at the edges. I love salmon, and this wouldve been a great meal in any other context. Unfortunately, the tools of catastropheketchup bottle and eight-pack of potato bunsloomed like a specter of death on the nearby counter. I actually felt remorse when I prepared the plate.

The verb used by Coppins in the excerpt is smothered. Romney smothers his fish with ketchup. It also mentions that Romney doesnt like the taste of salmon, which seems to imply that the condiment here must be applied at a large enough dose to totally eradicate the subtleties of the fishleaving only the processed, high-fructose tang of sugary tomato in its wake. I endeavored to follow Romneys instructions to the letter, so I excised a hunk of the filet that could fit neatly onto the circumference of the bun, and covered it with a veritable ketchup soup. I squeezed, and squeezed, and squeezed until all of the salmons appetizing pinkness was hidden in red glop.

I cant watch you do this, said my girlfriend, who was sitting at the kitchen table and trying to get some work done. Like, I genuinely think I might throw up.

Luke Winkie

I get where she was coming from. The sandwich didnt exactly smell bad. It didnt reek of dead flesh, or rotten food, or digestive materialall the usual stuff that might make someone hurl. Instead, when I brought the meal to my mouth, it simply looked wrong. Sinister. Almost evil. Whatever the opposite of a Platonic ideal form is. Here was a freshly cooked Alaskan filet dripping with refrigerated ketchup, mashed between a squishy, supermarket roll.

You could change any part of that equation and generate something far more appetizing. What if the fish was instead swimming in a nice, grainy mustard? Or a blast of spicy aioli? Hell, even some plain-jane Hellmanns mayonnaise would be more appropriate. If it must be ketchupas Romney says it must bewhy not swap in a hunk of sourdough? Or a ciabatta? Anything to give the sandwich a bit more verve. Instead, my plate looked soft and overripe, an affront against God and man. I dont think a piece of fish has ever been disrespected more.

It somehow tasted worse than I expected. My girlfriend kept her eyes glued to the window during my consumption, in the same way you might stare at the ceiling while getting blood drawn. The sandwich had the opposite effect on me than it seems to have on Romney. The gobs of ketchup did not obfuscate the fish; instead, it robbed the salmon of all of its wonderful qualitiesthe oiliness, the seaborne tartness, the lean fatleaving only a pellet of dank ocean funk encased in slimy, vibeless, tomato product. It felt like eating a lunchable. The bite marks taken out of the bun revealed a tragic cross-section; there was the salmon, still gorgeousa scintillating medium-rarelingering under layers of sin, peeking out like a trapped miner. To think that one of the most powerful senators in Congress eats this thing to unwind! Sometimes you read about the archaic beliefs of the founding fatherslike how doctors removed liters of George Washingtons blood to cure a cold in accordance with 18th-century medical practicesand youre left wondering how those with such fundamentally crude understandings of the world are the same who shape society. This is the exact same sensation I had while eating the Mitt Romneys ketchup-salmon special.

Can we please get some normal politicians? Its gone on like this for too long. When Romney announced that he wouldnt be seeking reelection, he called on both Donald Trump and Joe Biden to step aside for new leaders to emerge. That literally cant happen soon enough. A better world is possible, one where the levers of power are not bestowed to infirm octogenarians, psychotic real estate developers, and of course, men who can only eat salmon when its dunked in ketchup.
The former superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools has been named to a position in the U.S. Department of Education.

In June the Atlanta Public School Board announced they would not be renewing then-superintendent Dr. Lisa Herrings contract in 2024, ending her tenure on June 30, 2024.

But just days into the 2023 school year, Herring announced she would be leaving at the end of August.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Today, the U.S. Department of Education announced that Herring will join them as a consultant and strategic advisor to the Secretary.

Her start date is Monday, September 18.

I am delighted to have Dr. Lisa Herring join us at the Department of Education, a leader whose decades of experience as a teacher and administrator will be a tremendous asset to the Biden-Harris team. As strategic advisor, Dr. Herring will draw upon a professional career that has spanned both rural and urban communities and teaching in both public and private schools to deepen our relationships and collaboration with state and local education leaders. Dr. Herring shares our commitment to accelerating academic recovery in our schools and empowering educators to help students of all backgrounds to find their purpose and fulfill their potential. I look forward to working with her to Raise the Bar in education for all students, said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona.

TRENDING STORIES:

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

IN OTHER NEWS:
Bill Ellmore said he was due to fly on one of the hijacked planes on September 11, 2001.

But at midnight the night before, he was convinced by a coworker to swap to a later flight.

He later fired her for poor performance, he said  "one of the most difficult firings I had to do."

A former IBM exec's story about a brush with death during the 9/11 terrorist attack went viral on Monday, partly because of his anecdote about how he ended up firing the person who unwittingly saved his life.

Bill Ellmore has shared his story every year since September 11, 2001, but it went particularly viral on X, formerly known as Twitter, on the anniversary in 2023.

"I was booked on United Flight 93 on 9/11, 2001, flying nonstop from Newark NJ to San Francisco CA," he wrote in a post viewed some 11 million times.

"Around midnight the night before, a coworker called me urging me to change my flight to fly into San Jose instead."

This meant giving up a first-class seat, he explained, and adding a stopover in Denver. He said he did it because the ground trip from San Jose would still get him to his meeting earlier.

However  even though he credits her intervention with saving his life, Ellmore said he was already due to fire her, and did so a few months after the attack.

"When I got to the airport, I watched people boarding flight 93 and I was upset that I was not leaving earlier, in my 1st class seat on a direct flight," Ellmore's post said. "I didn't notice or care about the people as they were boarding, only myself."

Ellmore would never take off, he said: while waiting to fly the news arrived that one of the Twin Towers had been hit by a plane.

Ellmore said he then saw the second plane strike the other tower.

United 93 didn't hit either tower, but crashed into the ground in rural Pennsylvania after the passengers rose up and forced its hijackers to crash land before it could reach its target of Washington D.C.

Bill Ellmore  (@BillEllmore) September 11, 2023

Ellmore wrote that he "changed that day," and has had a different outlook on life since.

Insider spoke to Ellmore after his story went viral, not least because of the detail about firing the colleague who prompted the change.

Ellmore told Insider he got off the aborted flight and was watching coverage of the attacks in the airport when he saw the third plane in the attacks  American Airlines flight 77  hit the Pentagon.

"I realized our country was under attack and I decided to just go home to be with my family," he said.

He was driving home when he heard about a fourth plane crashing in Pennsylvania. "Just as I pulled into my driveway behind my wife who was returning from a yoga class, they reported it was United Flight 93," he said.

"I physically couldn't get out of my car. I felt faint and my legs wouldn't move."

Ellmore's story was already getting attention because people were amazed at the way in which he had been given a second chance at life. But it was the follow-up about his colleague that caught more people's interest.

"Sad to say, I ultimately had to fire her for poor performance," Ellmore said of the woman, after somebody asked about her. "It was difficult."

Bill Ellmore  (@BillEllmore) September 11, 2023

Ellmore explained in another post that the reason he was originally booked on the original flight was "due to her performance issues," which "didn't improve afterwards." He did not name the coworker, and Insider was not able to identify her.

Ellmore told Insider he didn't tell the coworker when he changed his flight. Instead, per his account, she assumed he was on the plane and called his colleagues at IBM "to inform them I was dead."

"We had been having a lot of issues with her which was one of the reasons I was flying to California in the first place," Ellmore said. "I certainly was grateful for her phone call but she definitely tried to leverage it to get out of trouble."

Ellmore said he had plans to terminate her position before 9/11 "due to poor performance," and wrote in one of the posts that he "delayed letting her go until my boss insisted it happen."

"It was one of the most difficult firings I had to do," he said. "We did remain in touch for a little while after that and she was able to continue her career at another division within IBM."

He added that the colleague had since described being fired as a "wake-up call," and he did not regret the decision to let her go at all.

Ellmore has had an eventful few years since, he said. When speaking with Insider he said he was in Massachusetts helping care for his severely ill brother.

He is also currently wrapped up in a lawsuit against IBM about how he too was fired from the company in 2019.

He and several other colleagues are jointly alleging age discrimination, per a legal filing reviewed by Insider. The case is unresolved, and IBM didn't respond to Insider's requests for comment, either about the events of 9/11 or the lawsuit.

"In the past 22 years, I've been through a divorce and we had the 1,000 year flood in Nashville that destroyed a great deal of our belongings," he said.

Ellmore's story was the subject of some skepticism, as many people assume his story was too wild to be true.

Ellmore said he had documentation from the flights at home but was too far away to access it.

He did show Insider social-media posts of him telling the story on different 9/11 anniversaries as long ago as 2013. He also showed images of posts by his sister-in-law and daughter, and a text from his daughter, talking about his story from 9/11.

"Everyone who worked with me, my friends and my family, all know it's true," he said. "9/11 has become my new birthday of sorts."

Read the original article on Insider
Anyone expecting disgraced former Portage Mayor James Snyder to report to federal prison on Oct. 16 to begin serving a 21-month sentence in his cases for defrauding the IRS and public corruption can scratch that date off the calendar.

On Wednesday, U.S. District Court Judge Matthew Kennelly agreed to Snyders request to postpone surrender to the federal Bureau of Prisons until 60 days after the denial of his pending request to have his case heard by the U.S. Supreme Court, according to an online docket. The decision came the same day Snyders attorney, Andrea Gambino, filed the request in a six-page document that outlines the possible time frame for him to surrender, depending on how things play out with the Supreme Court.

In her filing, Gambino points out that the government sought a 30-day extension to respond to Snyders request before the nations highest court, moving that deadline to Oct. 5, and the government is now seeking another extension, pushing the deadline to Nov. 6.

The filing notes that, given its current timetable, the Supreme Court would consider whether to hear Snyders case on Dec. 8, with a decision that afternoon or the following Monday, Dec. 11.

If the Supreme Court grants Mr. Snyders petition, the case would likely be set for argument in February or March 2024, with a decision expected by June 2024, according to the document.

The filing also requests that, if the Supreme Court agrees to hear his case, Snyder remain out on bond until the court hears the case and renders its decision.

Without a postponement of Snyders surrender date, there is a substantial risk that Mr. Snyder would serve nearly half of the sentence that has been imposed, only to have to retry the case if he is successful on the merits, resulting in time in custody on an invalid conviction, in violation of Mr. Snyders liberty interest under the Due Process clause of the Fifth Amendment, the filing states.

Snyder received a 21-month sentence in prison, and, according to the filing, would serve 17.8 months of that with time off for good behavior, not including a 6- to 12-month stint in a halfway house.

Mr. Snyder has been on pre-trial release and then bond pending appeal since 2016 (7 years) without incident. There is no indication that delaying his surrender for the two to eight months it may take to receive a decision from the United States Supreme Court will cause him to flee or endanger any other person, according to the filing.

Snyder filed a petition in early August asking the U.S. Supreme Court to consider overturning his conviction over taking $13,000 in regards to a contract for garbage trucks.

At the crux of the argument filed by his attorneys is whether that payment, which according to court documents was received after the garbage trucks were purchased in exchange for consulting services reportedly provided by Snyder to Great Lakes Peterbilt, the company that sold the garbage trucks, was a gratuity.

Snyder has exhausted his options in the federal appellate court system, with a July denial by the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago to give his case another hearing. His attorneys argue in their petition that the circuit courts dont agree on what constitutes a gratuity, and the Supreme Court has the opportunity to clarify the matter by taking up Snyders case.

Federal prosecutors have said in court testimony and documents that there was no written agreement between Snyder and the Buha brothers, who owned Great Lakes Peterbilt, to provide consulting services for health care and information technology, nor was there evidence of any work done under the arrangement.

Snyder, 45, a Republican, was first elected mayor in 2011 and was reelected in 2015.

Snyders case has moved in fits and starts since he was first indicted in U.S. District Court in Hammond in November 2016 on a charge of corrupt solicitation involving a contract with Great Lakes Peterbilt for garbage trucks; interfering with the IRS, for hiding funds from the federal agency from his mortgage company; and receiving a bribe for a tow truck contract.

A federal jury found Snyder guilty on the charges involving the garbage truck contract and the IRS and acquitted him on the allegations involving the towing contract.

Snyder asked for and received a new trial on the count involving the garbage trucks, and that trial, in March 2021, also resulted in a jury conviction.

Snyder filed another appeal in October 2021 in an attempt to have both of his convictions overturned and the court granted him bond pending that appeal. The appeals court rejected Snyders bid to have his convictions dismissed in a June 15 ruling.

alavalley@chicagotribune.com
CAMDEN - A former case worker has received a five-year prison term for sexually harassing women under investigation or supervision by the state Department of Children and Families.

Gilberto Ortiz, 53, of Woodbury must serve his sentence without parole eligibility, according to the state Attorney General's Office.

Ortiz admitted guilt in May to making unwanted advances and to intimidating women in an effort to have sex, according to the Attorney Generals Office.

It alleged Ortiz, while assigned to investigate possible negligence by a mother in February 2020, touched the woman without her consent during home visits. He also sent her sexually explicit images of himself, the Attorney Generals Office said in a statement.

Pemberton Township man is charged South Jersey school district employee accused of seeking sex with a student

Investigators also found victims from additional incidents in 2019.

The family services specialist was charged in March 2020. He was suspended, then resigned from the DCF.

The agency bars its workers from having any improper relationship with a person under its supervision or investigation.

Under a plea agreement, Ortiz also is now barred from public employment and from holding public office.

Superior Court Judge David Ragonese in Camden sentenced Ortiz on Sept. 8.

Jim Walsh is a senior reporter with the Courier-Post, Burlington County Times and The Daily Journal. Email: Jwalsh@cpsj.com.

This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Gilberto Ortiz must serve his sentence without parole eligibility
In 2021, Police Chief Steven Sargent, right, shares the stage with City Manager Ed Augustus, left, at a Police Department awards ceremony.

WORCESTER  Former Police Chief Steven M. Sargent was untruthful about a 2019 driving dispute in which a city resident claimed Sargent had been drinking, an independent investigator ruled in a 2020 report whose conclusions were disregarded by then-City Manager Edward M. Augustus Jr.

I find that Chief Sargent engaged in conduct unbecoming  (by) entering onto the property of a private citizen for no lawful purpose and then berating that citizen using vulgar language and insults, Michael P. Gardner, former director of personnel and labor relations for the City of Cambridge, wrote to Augustus in January 2020.

In a 58-page report, Gardner found that Sargent was untruthful and that he and two other police officials  including newly appointed interim Chief Paul Saucier  had acted improperly after the resident complained.

It is especially important to follow procedures in extraordinary cases, where suspicions might run high that the department would be tempted to ignore procedures, and not investigate as required, in order to protect their own, Gardner wrote. That appears to be what happened in this matter, potentially undermining citizen confidence in the integrity and thoroughness of investigations, particularly those at the highest levels.

The city released the investigation to the T&G Sept. 5, one business day after Sargent abruptly retired.

More Batista pledges police transparency, says reporting hastened chiefs retirement

The city also released a signed statement from Augustus, which it stamped as being received Sept. 1, the day of Sargent's exit. In the statement Augustus, who is now the state's housing secretary, wrote, I accepted the Chiefs offer to apologize to those who were involved and closed the matter.

The city released the statement and Gardners investigation pursuant to a public records request the newspaper filed July 30, seeking all investigations into the chief since 2019.

In his four-sentence statement, Augustus wrote that it was his recollection that, after ordering an independent probe into the complaint, he determined that the reported evidence was not conclusive and therefore did not accept the findings.

A memo from former City Manager Edward Augustus Jr., date stamped the same day that Police Chief Steven Sargent retired, explains how he responded to an investigation that he had ordered into a past incident involving the chief.

The statement did not provide any details about why Augustus believed the findings of the investigator he hired were unsupported.

Augustus declined to comment when approached by the T&G at the Statehouse Tuesday and declined to answer a set of detailed questions sent to his office.

Gardner, who served as Cambridges labor chief for 28 years, told the T&G Wednesday that no one from the city had reached out to him to follow up on his report, something he said was not unusual in consulting.

Asked about his findings, he said he believed they had "substantial evidence behind them."

City Manager Eric D. Batista declined an interview request lodged Tuesday. He declined to say when he learned of the investigation or from whom, with a spokesperson saying that it was discovered by a person in the human resources department who he declined to name.

William Bagley, the city's current director of human resources, was interviewed by Gardner as part of the investigation in 2019, the document shows, when he was a lawyer there.

Efforts to reach Sargent through his lawyer, Austin Joyce, were unsuccessful.

More Embarrassing: Councilors Haxhiaj, King say scrutiny warranted after police chiefs exit

'That is no way for a police chief to act'

According to Gardner's report, the complaint began with a call placed to the departments recorded nonemergency dispatch line at 7:05 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019.

I want to make a complaint against the Chief of Police, a man whose name and address were redacted from the report told dispatch, according to a transcript of the call affixed to the report.

While the mans address was redacted from the report, the T&G was able to independently verify that the incident took place on Drummond Avenue.

The man told the dispatcher that he and Sargent had exchanged beeps while the man was helping his wife park her car in their driveway, and that Sargent had exited his vehicle.

He gets out of his car and he was absolutely hammered. I could smell it a mile away, the man said. Gets in my driveway, gets in my face. Calling me names, with my kids in the driveway.

Thats bullcrap, chief of police doing that, he added. Now I dont know what I have to do to make a complaint.

Ill go to the Worcester Telegram if I have to but that is no way for a police chief to act.

The transcript shows that a dispatcher, after placing the man on hold twice and consulting with multiple police officials, told him someone would come to his home to speak with him.

That never happened, Gardner, wrote. Instead, a police captain who knew Sargent for decades placed a call to the man and hung up without leaving a message before going to Sargents home. While apologizing to Sargent for bothering him, the captain determined he was not drunk.

Texts between Chief Sargent and Capt. John J. Ryder Jr., contained in the investigator's report, show the two men insulting a resident who had complained about an incident involving the chief.

Thanks for coming by. Pissed you had to come by. The guy was an ass for sure, Sargent texted the captain, John J. Ryder Jr., later that evening, the investigation found.

Embarrassed that I went to ur house and disturbed u eating w ur family, Ryder replied. I wanted to see u in case this goes further, Now this fool cannot claim we did nothing.

Efforts to reach Ryder, who retired in August 2022 after 35 years with the police department, through the department and the police officials union were unsuccessful.

'Half-hearted effort' to talk to complainant

Gardner pointed to the texts as one of multiple pieces of evidence that showed police had failed to adequately investigate the complaint in violation of their own policies.

The texts showed "great prejudice" against the man, he wrote, less than 90 minutes after Ryder had accepted responsibility to investigate the complaint.

Gardner wrote that Ryders boss at the time, Deputy Chief Saucier, failed to give adequate direction to his subordinate Captain to ensure that the complaint was adequately investigated, reports prepared, and the matter referred to the Bureau of Professional Standards [the citys internal affairs unit].

Gardner wrote that police violated a department policy requiring the department to give anyone who makes a complaint the opportunity to file a written statement and to forward the complaint along to internal affairs.

[Ryders] half-hearted effort to reach the complainant, by placing one telephone call, without leaving a message, and then with no follow-up, as well as his statements to the investigator, make clear he had no intention to thoroughly investigate the complaint, Gardner wrote.

Gardner said Saucier told him he had suggested Sargent give Augustus a heads up about the complaint and that Sargent replied to him that it was all set.

In his interview, the Chief said he did not recall Deputy Saucier saying that to him, Gardner wrote.

Saucier declined an interview request. Asked several questions about the report, a police spokesperson deferred comment to Batistas office.

No field sobriety test

Gardner noted in his report that Ryder did not tell him about the text exchange he had with Sargent during his initial interview.

He concluded that Ryder appeared to have done the absolute minimum" possible, saying Ryder appeared to have known little about what the caller had alleged to have happened.

He declined to do even a basic field sobriety test. He did not inquire as if or when the Chief had had anything to drink, Gardner wrote, adding that Ryder instead determined from his own observations that Sargent was sober.

Gardner wrote that it was unclear exactly what time Ryder and Sargent spoke, but that it could have been up to 90 minutes after the incident on Drummond Avenue.

The investigation of former Chief Sargent began with an incident on Drummond Avenue.

Out for a bottle of wine

According to Gardners report, Sargent reported the incident had occurred after his wife asked him to grab some food and wine for company.

Sargent went out while he was cooking ribs on the grill, Gardner wrote, leaving in his unmarked, blue Ford Taurus that had a fully functioning police radio but whose lights and siren were malfunctioning and needed to be serviced.

Sargent told Gardner he had maybe two beers earlier in the day while cooking, but that was it.

The chief told Gardner he was driving down Drummond Avenue  which has a steep decline  at about 5 to 10 miles per hour when he saw a car backing up in the right-hand lane.

The chief said he gave a quick beep to alert the other driver and stopped closely behind the car, which also stopped.

Gardner said the chief told him the car in front of him didnt move or signal for about a minute, so he beeped a couple more times.

He said he didnt lay on the horn but hit the horn a couple of times, Gardner wrote. In his second interview he said, I really beeped.

Gardner said Sargent reported following the vehicle in tandem as it moved slowly toward the driveway, saying at one point it stopped abruptly, as if the other driver stopped quickly to bust my chops.

Sargent told him that after the man got into his driveway, he lowered his passengers side window and yelled, You almost hit me two times."

At that moment, the chief alleged, the other driver, whom he referred to as a bully, started barreling down the driveway toward the Taurus.

The Chief said he reacted with his police training, instinctively getting out of his car and approaching the other driver, who was still coming toward him.

I got out of the car to yell; he was moving at me, Gardner quoted Sargent as saying. It was just a reaction, like a cop. You get out of the car and try to move them back."

Sargent told Gardner the men swore at each other. He painted the other man as the aggressor and said he got back in his car and left after he saw the man's wife.

Sargent told Gardner that as he walked away, the man yelled at him repeatedly, accusing him of being drunk.

He reported being embarrassed for getting out of the car, saying a cooler head made him leave.

Gardner wrote that the chief agreed that the man never got so close to the car that the Chief would have been hampered in any way in just driving away.

Worcester Police Chief Steven Sargent addresses a Safer Communities roundtable at the Boys & Girls Club of Worcester in July.

Witnesses found more credible than chief

Gardner wrote that the man involved in the incident, his wife and their neighbor all gave interviews that conflicted with Sargents recollection and were more credible.

All three labeled Sargent as the aggressor, wrote Gardner, and denied that the man had yelled that Sargent was drunk as he was driving away.

Gardner said he did not believe Sargent was aware a neighbor had witnessed the incident when he gave his interview.

The woman, Gardner wrote, was a 64-year-old retired correctional officer who has a license to carry a firearm  licenses which are approved and revoked by police chiefs.

Gardner wrote that the woman recalled seeing the Taurus come to a quick stop, seeing Sargent "jump" out and seeing him "jumping up" in her neighbor's face while calling him a "fat ass.

She said the man was very aggressive, almost as if he wanted [her neighbor] to hit him, Gardner wrote.

Gardner found that, "contrary to his claim, it was the chief who was the primary aggressor in initiating the face-to-face confrontation."

He found there was not enough evidence to say whether Sargent was drunk, writing that the man "never claimed" Sargent was drunk during in their interview, though he did say he was "1000% sure" he had been drinking.

Gardner said the man's wife said she wasn't close enough to Sargent to say if he had been drinking.

Gardner wrote that he believed the chief did present signs to [the man] that he had been drinking, but that there was no evidence that he was intoxicated above the legal limit.

'Conduct unbecoming an officer'

Gardner concluded that Sargent engaged in conduct unbecoming an officer and violated department policy by failing to ensure a citizen's complaint was investigated.

Gardner concluded that Sargent also violated the department's rules surrounding truthfulness twice  in his description of how he had come up behind the mans car and in his allegation the man had yelled at him, calling him a drunk  and that he, Saucier and Ryder violated the departments policy regarding the handling of citizen complaints.

Gardner also found Sargent and Ryder committed conduct unbecoming through the text exchange in which they disparaged the man who complained.

The city confirmed Wednesday that, as a result of Augustus' decision, none of Gardner's findings about Sargent, Ryder or Saucier were formally sustained.

Batista declined to answer questions about any conversations he may have had with Augustus, whether he agreed with Augustus' reasoning, and what he made of Gardner's report.

Anger questioned

Gardner also wrote in his report that the chief demonstrated himself to me to be someone who can be quick to anger."

Gardner said the chief was slow to provide him texts between himself and Ryder, sounding "agitated" when calling Gardner back and questioning a request for a second interview.

He said this sounded like a fishing expedition and demanded to know why, in the first interview, I had asked him where he lived, Gardner wrote.

Gardner said the chief became upset upon learning that Gardner had spoken to several people at City Hall, saying Augustus had "promised him he, the City Manager, would be the only one involved.

Gardner said the intensity of his angry reaction to this news was unprofessional and led me to believe he is capable of quickly losing emotional control, in a manner as alleged by [the complainant].

Gardner also said he was troubled by sentiment Sargent expressed in his interviews that what happened was a disagreement between two Worcester citizens, and that policy wasnt breached because no formal complaint was made.

From his interviews, it is clear that the Chief chafes at [his] 24-hour responsibility," Gardner wrote. If he seriously believes what he said in these interviews, he is displaying a fundamental misunderstanding of his role, and the process by which citizens can have their complaints investigated, in a manner which upholds the professionalism, integrity and fairness of the Worcester Police Department.

The department is currently under a federal pattern-or-practice investigation that federal officials have said will include scrutiny of its internal affairs department.

Man who complained: Apology never received

Approached by the T&G Monday, the man who made the complaint said he still believes Sargent was drunk the day in question.

The man, who spoke under the condition he not be identified, said he never received an apology from Sargent.

People have bad days, he said. I just fully expected to get an apology from a public official.

At this point, I dont need it, he added. I dont have any ill will towards him and wish him the best.

Multiple investigations

The Gardner probe is one of three investigations of Sargent the city has conducted since 2019.

Two of the probes relate to allegations Sargent retaliated against a police officer, Robert Belsito, whom he did not like.

Belsito, who is threatening to sue the city, alleges Sargent drove his department-issued vehicle toward him aggressively April 15 of this year, among other charges.

An independent investigation into those allegations remains open, the city confirmed Wednesday.

The most recent allegations from Belsito come two years after Augustus, in January 2021, accepted findings of an independent probe that found Sargent engaged in a pattern of inappropriate behavior toward Belsito.

None of the investigations  which, according to records the T&G obtained, have cost taxpayers $39,614.95 as of June 5  had been publicly reported prior to the T&Gs publication of Belsitos allegations Aug. 18.

Records turned over by the city Sept. 5 show that, after the 2021 probe regarding Belsito, Augustus issued Sargent a letter in which he warned that future infractions could lead to disciplinary action including termination.

Augustus wrote in the letter that Sargents actions may have violated the law, exposed the city to liability and set a poor example for leadership.

The letter made no mention of Gardner's findings from the year prior.

Report on allegations against Worcester Police Chief Steven Sargent by Michael Elfland on Scribd

This embedded content is not available in your region.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Former City Manager Augustus shelved investigation implicating chief
A Fort Collins man says his vision was permanently damaged when police sprayed him with pepper spray after he refused to accept a summons for petty trespassing from officers in Old Town Fort Collins in August 2021.

The man, Andru Kulas, filed a lawsuit last month against the city of Fort Collins and Fort Collins police officers Kevin Park and Avery Hanzlicek, nearly two years after the two officers arrested Kulas for allegedly trespassing on the rooftop of an Old Town bar. The lawsuit alleges Park used excessive force in pepper spraying Kulas and Hanzlicek failed in his duty to intervene when witnessing excessive force.

When the lawsuit was filed in late August, Kulas' attorneys also released edited and unedited body camera footage from the incident and the internal investigation report completed by Fort Collins Police Services following a complaint Kulas filed with the department. Fort Collins Police Chief Jeff Swoboda also issued a statement regarding the lawsuit, which included additional body camera footage.

The lawsuit claims Kulas has permanent vision impairment from Park's use of pepper spray so close to his face and that "a permanent haze had developed in his vision" after the incident.

Here's what we learned about this case from reviewing the lawsuit, internal investigation report and body camera footage:

Man pepper sprayed, arrested for refusing to accept summons for trespassing

In the early morning hours of Aug. 29, 2021, Hanzlicek responded to the corner of College and Mountain avenues to investigate a reported trespassing incident at a nearby bar, where a staff member said two men were climbing on the bar's roof. Hanzlicek identified Kulas and his friend as potential suspects, so Hanzlicek began speaking with them. Kulas provided his ID to Hanzlicek when asked, according to the lawsuit.

Hanzlicek identified Kulas and his friend as the suspects and was writing Kulas a summons for third-degree trespassing, a petty offense, when Park arrived as backup. Kulas was standing nearby asking questions, but Park  not knowing that Kulas was involved, he later told the internal affairs investigator  ignored his questions and asked him to step back.

When Hanzlicek started explaining the summons to Kulas and tried to hand it to him, Kulas refused to take it. Park took the summons from Hanzlicek and told Kulas he needed to take it or he wouldn't know when his court date would be and a warrant would be issued for his arrest.

When Kulas still didnt take it, Park, "unable to contain his anger towards Mr. Kulas any longer," the lawsuit states, tried to force Kulas to take it, shoving the ticket at him. Kulas backed away, repeatedly saying no" and trying to push away the summons, body camera footage shows.

Park is then seen taking Kulas to the ground by his jacket.

The internal affairs investigation report writer, Lt. Sara Lynd, said Park "aggressively shoved the citation into (Kulas) chest and then grabbed his jacket and shoved (Kulas) to the pavement without any provocation, according to the report released to the public by Kulas' attorney. Lynd also wrote that Kulas appeared to push or brush Park's hand away as the officer tried to force the citation into his pocket, and the contact was "incidental" and not an attempt to assault the officer.

The lawsuit alleges Park slammed Kulas' head into the sidewalk and used his forearm to choke him while restraining him on the ground. Other officers assisted Park in holding Kulas on the ground, and they asked him to roll from his back to his stomach, which he couldn't physically do while being restrained, according to the lawsuit.

In the body camera footage, Park is seen pulling out his pepper spray, pointing it at Kulas' face a few inches away and saying "comply or force will be used against you." Park then sprayed pepper spray directly into the restrained and helpless Mr. Kulass eye  just 1-2 inches away from Mr. Kulass face, the lawsuit states.

In the minutes following, Kulas asked officers for something to wash his eyes out as his face continued to swell, but they ignored him and did nothing to alleviate his suffering, the lawsuit claims. Kulas was wearing contacts when he was pepper sprayed, so the lawsuit claimed the particulates stayed trapped in his eyes longer, causing more damage.

Kulas was treated by emergency medical services professionals on scene and then transported to the jail, where he was detained for 36 hours, according to the lawsuit. While in the jail, he was functionally blind and in complete agony from continued burning, swelling, tearing, and filled with terror that the damage would be permanent, the lawsuit states.

Two years later, Kulas continues to have cloudy vision, the lawsuit claims.

On top of the third-degree trespassing allegation, Kulas was charged with obstructing a peace officer and resisting arrest. The 8th Judicial District Attorney's Office outright dismissed the "unsupported" obstructing and resisting charges, spokesperson Brianna Jones said, and the third-degree trespassing charge was dismissed after Kulas completed a class.

Officers exonerated despite critical internal review

In October 2021, Kulas filed an excessive force complaint with Fort Collins Police Services against Park. The complaint triggered an internal investigation into the incident.

The internal investigator, Lynd, found that Park did violate department policy, but Swoboda  who makes the final call regarding disciplinary or corrective action needed  exonerated the officer.

Department policy requires officers to use nonviolent means to gain compliance when possible before using force, but Internal Affairs does not believe that all the available nonviolent means had been attempted prior to the use of force," Lynd wrote in the internal investigation report.

Officer Park, through his behavior and actions, caused a poor interaction to develop," Lynd wrote in the report, later adding, "I believe that Officer Park could have found alternate means to issue the summons.

The department's policy does not specify any distance pepper spray should be deployed at, but the department's "Defensive Tactics" training directive states "it should be applied no less than 3 feet away as it could pose additional injury to an individual," though "there are certain circumstances where a closer application of (pepper) spray may be appropriate," officer Brandon Barnes told the Coloradoan in an email.

The department's "Defensive Tactics" team is responsible for the teaching and training of deploying pepper spray, and the curriculum it uses has been reviewed and approved by the Colorado Peace Officer Standards and Training board. While the state requires police officers undergo a minimum of one hour of training on this topic annually, Fort Collins police requires 12 hours, and officers are required to take an annual refresher training on utilizing pepper spray, Barnes said.

Since the incident involving Kulas occurred, Barnes said the department has undergone "additional training to ensure that we are consistent in how we respond to such incidents."

Swoboda defended his decision to exonerate Park from any policy violations in a statement posted on social media after the lawsuit was filed, stating that it "couldn't be further from the truth" that a full investigation into this complaint was not conducted.

The Citizen Review Board  which is comprised of residents tasked with independently reviewing certain internal investigations conducted by Fort Collins police  sided with Swoboda, unanimously agreeing during a March 2022 meeting that Park should be exonerated from any wrongdoing.

More: Fort Collins' Citizen Review Board sides with police in most use of force cases. They say that's good.

The review board recommended additional role player scenarios, like this incident, be provided to all officers in basic and continued training and an additional refresher course on hold techniques for the officers involved in this incident," according to the memo from their meeting.

Swoboda said that he and other city officials received a letter in July asking for $750,000 in "quiet compensation" in this case, and if the city agreed this case would not be shared with the public, but the city did not agree.

We want you to see the entire incident, Swoboda said. Our officers found someone committing a criminal offense in our downtown area who refused to accept a criminal summons and was taken into lawful arrest. ... We dont quietly give money out in the hopes that cases dont make it to the public.

In a news release, attorney Sarah Schielke said "the assault on Mr. Kulas is horrifying," and that the fact that the internal investigator identified misconduct but Swoboda and the review board "ignored" those findings and exonerated the officer "is even worse."

"FCPS's Internal Affairs investigators found numerous policy violations and no justification for the officers' use of force," another attorney representing Kulas, Matthew Haltzman, said in a statement to the Coloradoan. "... This type of conduct by FCPS is toxic, destructive and erodes our public trust in the police and their leadership."

This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Fort Collins police sued for excessive force in 2021 Old Town case
Three Fort Worth area recipients have been awarded more than $2 million in grants to reduce the states backlog of untested DNA and rape kits, officials said in a news release this week.

The city of Fort Worth, Tarrant County and the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth were awarded the grants, which are funded by the U.S. Department of Justices Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction Program and authorized by the Debbie Smith Act sponsored by Sen. John Cornyn.

As long as rape kits sit untested, authorities are failing the victims and communities weve sworn to protect, Cornyn said in the news release. I am proud to have authored three laws to help drive down the national backlog, and Ill continue to do everything I can to ensure survivors receive the closure they deserve and that justice is served.

A rape kit, also known as a sexual assault kit, includes DNA evidence from the body, clothes and other personal belongings of the victim after a sexual assault has taken place.

Michael Coble, the director of the Center for Human Identification at the UNT Health Science Center, said the lab has received the grant on a yearly basis for at least a decade.

This funding is very helpful ... for us to continue and extend the work that we already do for Texas, he said.

UNTHSC was awarded $787,330 for 2023.

The center handles a variety of cases involving DNA, including homicides and robberies, but 84% of its work is related to testing sexual assault kits, according to Coble. The evidence in the kits can help identify and prosecute suspects, Coble said.

Over the last few years laws have been put into place to address the backlog of untested rape kits in the state. House Bill 8, also known as the Lavinia Masters Act, was signed into law in 2019 and mandates that crime labs test sexual assault kits within 90 days after receipt.

Melissa Haas, the casework laboratory director at UNTHSC, said the center does not have a backlog of kits related to current cases, but they are working with the Texas Department of Safety to test a number of kits from the original backlog.

In 2019, the Department of Public Safety had nearly 3,000 sexual assault kits waiting to be tested.

The city of Fort Worth will receive $708,323 to address backlogged kits and the Tarrant County Medical Examiners Office will receive $600,000, according to the news release.
Frances Foreign ministry on Thursday announced the release of Stephane Jullien, a French official who had been held by security forces in Niger.

The man, an adviser to French nationals in Niger, had been arrested by Niger security forces on September 8, according to the foreign ministry in Paris.

The ministry had called for his immediate release on Tuesday but did not provide details on his arrest.

Jullien is an elected official who represents French expatriates and works closely with the countrys embassies and consulates.

According to the foreign ministry website, there are 442 such advisers worldwide. Their role is to help French expats with issues relating to work, schools, social security and other issues. They are elected for six-year terms.

Nigers ruling junta last month ordered police to expel Frances ambassador, in a move marking a further downturn in relations between France and its former colony.

Paris had said that the army officers who seized power in Niamey in late July had no authority to expel the French ambassador.

Following the coup, France said it would end military cooperation and cut all development aid to the country. But Paris had so far rejected calls by the putsch leaders to withdraw the 1,500 French troops currently in Niger, saying it still regards democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum, currently held prisoner, as the countrys legitimate leader.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Exports of Minis produced at the BMW plant in Oxford to the EU will be damaged by trade tariffs - Joe Giddens/PA

France will block a British request to extend a free trade deal on exporting electric cars to Europe amid concerns about Chinese parts.

The British government, backed by carmakers from across Europe, wants to delay Brexit trade tariffs on electric vehicles shipped between the UK and EU.

But a senior French source said that Brussels did not want Britain to be a backdoor for China to flood the bloc with cheap electric vehicles.

Nissan and BMW are investing heavily in electric car manufacturing in Britain, but are dependent on battery parts from China.

The row with the UK comes as a trade war is brewing between Brussels and Beijing. Ursula von der Leyen , the European Commissions president, promised a tough approach on Chinese imports in her annual State of the Union speech.

Ursula von der Leyen underlined the European Commission's tough approach to Chinese imports this week - RITZAU SCANPIX

Britain is asking the EU to push back the implementation of post-Brexit trade rules that are due to enter into force at the end of the year until 2027.

Under the so-called rules of origin requirement, electric vehicles shipped from Britain to the bloc must have 60 per cent of their battery and 45 per cent of their parts by value sourced from either the EU or UK.

After the end of the year, electric vehicles traded across the Channel that dont meet this criteria will be slapped with a 10 per cent trade levy, despite Britains zero-tariff, zero-quota trade deal with Brussels.

French ministers have pushed for the Commission to stick by the plans to impose tariffs from next year amid an effort to make the bloc less reliant on the likes of China and the United States.

The British want an extension to the deadline until 2027 to continue flooding the EU market with Chinese batteries and thus become a hub in the process, the French source told The Telegraph.

A European battle will now ensue. The French position is to say no to the British because it is a question of sovereignty as we want to create a European battery industry and flooding the French market with Chinese batteries would stop it from happening.

PM has lobbied Mrs Von der Leyen

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has personally lobbied Mrs von der Leyen in recent private discussions between the pair to relax the blocs hardline stance.

And British officials have expressed extreme frustration over the lack of progress theyve had with their European counterparts, according to a source familiar with the discussions.

Theyve complained that Brussels has failed to listen to warnings from both UK and European carmakers, which have said failing to delay the rules could prove to be extremely costly for the industry.

The French source added: So far, no decision has been made. But the outcome will give an indication of how we envisage future relations with the British.

We have no economic interest in extending the deadline.

Despite the French blockage, British officials are hopeful the date will be extended beyond the end of the year.

Industry Minister Nus Ghani earlier this week warned China would be the biggest beneficiary if the EU and UK cannot reach a deal on tariffs.

She said the introduction of trade tariffs would open the door to cheaper imports, potentially Chinese-made cars to fill the gaps in EU and UK markets.

There will be impact on not just the UK car industry but also ... manufacturers in Europe as well, the minister told the House of Commons Business and Trade Committee.

European carmakers could lose 4.3bn

European carmakers have warned that they stand to lose 4.3bn (3.69bn) and cut production by some 500,000 electric vehicles unless Brussels agrees to delay the implementation of tariffs.

But a Commission spokesman said: Brexit has changed the trade relationship between the UK and the EU, among other things.

The Trade and Cooperation Agreement is the outcome of a negotiation in which both sides agreed to an overall balance of commitments. This includes clear terms for rules of origin for cars and other products traded under the terms of the TCA. These rules of origin aim to support the EUs strategic objective to develop a strong and resilient battery value chain in the EU.

French President Emmanuel Macron has staked major political capital on transforming his country into a hub for electric vehicle production.

On Thursday, French startup Verkor said it has raised more than 2bn to build a gigafactory for electric car batteries.

The plant is among a clutch of factories set to emerge in northern France under President Macrons reindustrialisation plan for the country.

BMW this year announced it would invest 600m, including a 75m injection from the British taxpayer, to build the next generation of Minis at a plant in Oxford.

While the electric vehicles will be assembled in Britain, the batteries will be sourced from China for the foreseeable future, meaning these cars will not comply with the shifting regulations.

Battery technology is seen as the crucial element in the rollout of electric vehicles, with up to 40 per cent of the cars value tied up in it, but production is dominated by China.

Japanese manufacturer Nissan announced the creation of a gigafactory that would enable its Sunderland car plant to boost the production of electric vehicles.

But for now its Leaf models, produced in the North East, are made in conjunction with batteries from Chinese manufacturers Envision.

UK and EU battery makers undercutby China

Both producers of batteries in the UK and EU, which have higher production costs and less access to the critical raw materials needed, are being undercut by their rivals in China.

European and British carmakers, as well as the UK Government, have warned failure to delay the introduction of tariffs would only benefit Beijing further.

Because of this, manufacturers are bullish that a deal can be reached.

A BMW spokesman said: This legislation affects the entire industry and we, like all manufacturers, hope that a successful compromise can be reached as regards this issue.

Mike Hawes, CEO of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said: Upcoming rules of origin for batteries pose a significant challenge to manufacturers on both sides of the Channel, with the prospect of tariffs and price increases on electrified vehicles that would discourage consumers from buying the very models needed to achieve shared climate change goals.

With now less than four months until this situation arises, we look to the EU and UK to agree urgently a pragmatic solution to delay the introduction of over-demanding origin requirements for batteries, something which is perfectly possible within the existing UK-EU TCA framework.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
A new 24-hour online tutoring service is helping the nations most underserved students make huge academic gains  at no cost to them.

UPchieve, an ed tech nonprofit, is bringing on volunteer tutors to offer free, on-demand academic and college application support to any U.S. middle or high school student attending a Title I school or living in a low-income neighborhood.

The platform is a game changer for students of color living in poverty, disproportionately impacted by the pandemic and unable to access costly individualized tutoring. Often working jobs or tending to family responsibilities, many are prevented from utilizing traditional offerings afterschool.

No paywall. No pop-up ads. Keep The 74 free with a donation during our Fall campaign.

Through a mobile app or website, students are matched with one of 20,000 trained, volunteer tutors worldwide within five minutes. Sessions are typically 40 minutes, but can extend beyond an hour until students feel confident with the task at hand.

Right now in the United States, that sort of extra support is not available to the majority of low-income students, said founder Aly Murray. Thats where we come in. We think that every student, regardless of their familys income, should be able to get support with their classes and applying to college when they need it.

Murray, who grew up low-income to an immigrant single mother, launched UPchieve in 2017 looking to build the platform she wished she had as a child. Of the more than 37,000 students who have completed over 100,000 sessions since, 64% are first-generation college-bound and 81% are students of color.

More than half are not enrolled in any other academic or college access program, and many start programming with very low motivation or in the lower third percentiles in terms of academic performance  sometimes grade levels behind.

Were reaching kids  and this is exactly what we wanted, Murray added. UPchieve is especially valuable and high impact in cases where kids have nothing else, especially those whose college and career trajectory could be changed by this level of support.

That was the case for Michael Lyons, a rising 11th grader who works at a Bloomington, Illinois grocery store three days a week and usually starts schoolwork at about 10 p.m. Having used the platform since finding it in an internet search for writing help in 7th grade, Lyons now has dreams of becoming an elementary school teacher.

I need help on demand, Lyons said. I think of [UPchieve] as a teacher away from school  I could participate more, because I know what Im doing.

After just nine sessions, students scored an average of nine percentile points higher on the national Star math assessment, gains equivalent to 8 months of additional learning, according to policy research firm Mathematica, which studied 9th and 10th graders in the 2021-22 school year. Students also showed increased academic motivation, confidence, and engagement in class.

Mathematicas report was the first to show the effectiveness of on-demand tutoring  findings useful for the field of math tutoring because they are examples of preliminary evidence that on-demand, online tutoring drawing on unpaid, volunteer tutors improves math achievement and motivation.

Math, particularly algebra and geometry, is UPchieves most commonly requested subject, accounting for about 56% of 2022s sessions, followed by humanities and writing support at 22%, science at 17% and college prep at 5%.

A map showing the states with most users are Texas, with 21.8% of students having accounts, California with 14.4%, New York with 9.2%, Florida with 9.2% and Indiana with 8.9%

Because the model draws on volunteer labor, the operational cost to provide one student with a years worth of unlimited tutoring is only $5. In comparison, other tutoring programs with similar impact can cost thousands per student.

UPchieves international tutor base ranges from college students and retired teachers to business professionals looking to make an impact. The majority have prior tutor experience, but all have to complete an introductory training to learn best practices and demonstrate content mastery.

David Seides, director of finance and customer experience at AT&T, began volunteering nearly three years ago, encouraged to put some hours in as a corporate sponsor. To date, hes logged over 400 sessions.

He sets the times he is available each week, and gets alerts when students request help. When he has an extra hour, Seides pops online to see if theres any students waiting. The setup is ideal, he said, because his work schedule is unpredictable.

For students who are struggling in class but dont want to let on to the teacher or their peers, UPchieve provides a level of needed distance, too.

This online platform, its anonymous enough that I think we get people coming with the real problems that they cant figure out how to solve, Seides said.

Confidence was a struggle for Stacy, a rising 11th grader from Ghana now in Worcester, Massachusetts. Her math grades pre-tutoring were in the 70s. Today, she regularly earns As and sees a future at one of the University of Massachusetts campuses.

I was surprised because I didnt expect the tutors to help me so well. I started crying and screaming when I got it, she told the nonprofit.

They dont just help me do [homework], but also make sure I understand, Stacy said. They also give me similar problems just like the ones on my homework or what Im learning in school  My math teacher is really impressed with my grades and understanding in class now. I am very grateful for that.

Like other programs, UPchieve is still working on how to get students to regularly return. While some students log on far above average, up to 400 hours in a single year, only about 12% of new students log 10 or more sessions  about 6 hours, the threshold for seeing large academic gains.

In comparison to the popular Khan Academy, UPchieve does seem to be striking a chord with students. Only about 7% of Khans new users complete two or more hours of sessions, according to a 2020 annual report.

Adding an audio or video connection would be a welcome change, or being able to favorite past tutors, students told The 74.

The current text-based communication is preferred by most  especially because many use the platform late at night, or have slow or limited internet access. A predominantly text-based platform also streamlines student safety, Murray said, as chat logs are stored and reviewed, and filters in place prevent emails or social media accounts from being shared.

UPchieve does plan to develop voice capabilities, with safety measures, for students and tutors who both opt-in in future versions of the app, for times when a concept is particularly confusing. One of Seides students, for example, once had difficulty understanding which way to flip their paper to understand reflection and rotations on a quadrant plane.

Still, in its current iteration, the platform is filling a gap for students who need it most.

It has given me a support system in stressful times. Without the comfort of private tutors that my peers had, I knew I would have to work even harder, Xin, a high school student in Queens, NY, told the nonprofit. Having UPchieve meant that I wouldnt have to work alone or live with the constant anxiety of falling behind.

Disclosure: The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Overdeck Family Foundation provide financial support to UPchieve and The 74.
FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  A woman, a man, and a male juvenile were arrested after police found a concealed firearm in their hotel room, the Fresno Police Department said on Wednesday.

Northwest patrol officers say they were following up on a theft case in the area of Blackstone and Ashlan Avenues when they located a female suspect near her rented hotel room. Officers contacted an adult female, an adult male, and a juvenile male.

Officers say they conducted a compliance check of the hotel room rented to the adult female. The female suspect was found to be on active probation on suspicion of possession of a concealed firearm in public, and the adult male was found to be on active parole for suspicion of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Detectives say they discovered the juvenile had brought a firearm into the hotel room and officers were able to locate the hidden firearm. The juvenile was taken into custody on suspicion of being a minor in possession of a firearm, as well as possessing a short-barrel shotgun and booked at the Juvenile Justice Center.

According to police, the adult male, and father of the juvenile, were arrested on suspicion of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The female was arrested on suspicion of separate drug charges and they were booked into the Fresno County Jail.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  Officers with the Fresno Police bike unit arrested a convicted felon with a loaded handgun in southeast Fresno, according to the Fresno Police Department.

Police say they responded to Peach and Clay avenues regarding a man at a bus stop with a firearm in his waistband. Officers say they were able to contact the man and safely located the loaded firearm.

Investigators say the man was found to be a convicted felon and on active probation for firearm-related charges.

The man was arrested and booked into the Fresno County Jail on numerous firearm-related charges and a probation violation, according to police.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
A massive project to build one of the worlds most powerful particle accelerators at Fermilab has been halted since May 25 while federal authorities investigate an accident that severely injured a northwest Indiana ironworker three months into construction.

James Daniels, 46, fell from the top of a two-story wall during his first day on the job. Hospitalized for several months, he has filed a lawsuit in Cook County Circuit Court against Fermi Research Alliance, which operates the site, as well as the contractor and subcontractors in charge of the construction project.

Advertisement

James is going to have a lifetime of disability related to this occurrence, said Michael Fisher, an attorney with GWC Injury Lawyers, a Chicago-based firm representing Daniels in the lawsuit. Its extremely unlikely that he will ever return to work as a Local 1 ironworker.

The Proton Improvement Plan II, a 10-year, $978 million project funded by the Department of Energy, which owns the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in west suburban Batavia, is expected to enhance groundbreaking experiments in particle physics by creating a more powerful accelerator at the heart of the sprawling research facility.

Advertisement

But in the wake of the accident, the project remains on hold, with no target date for resumption.

A phased restart plan has been developed, Fermilab spokesperson Tracy Marc said in an email. FRA (Fermi Research Alliance) is working closely with our subcontractors and DOEs Fermi Site Office to ensure a thorough plan is in place and appropriate steps are taken prior to restarting the construction work.

Marc declined to comment on the lawsuit.

The project had barely broken ground when the ironworker fell 23 feet while attempting to secure reinforcing steel bars near the top of a newly erected wall, according to a DOE accident investigation report published Sept. 6. Captured on a live 24/7 construction camera documenting progress at the site, the May 25 accident resulted in serious injuries, including head trauma, according to the report.

It took more than an hour before the worker was airlifted to Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove, according to the report, which did not name the injured worker.

The accident report concluded the Fermi Research Alliance, as well as the contractor and subcontractors, failed to define and implement proper safety procedures at the construction site.

Based upon the findings of this accident investigation, the (DOE-appointed Accident Investigation) Board concluded that this accident and the resulting injury was preventable, the report stated.

The Proton Improvement Plan II will build a powerful new superconducting linear accelerator to create the worlds most intense high-energy neutrino beam, enabling global scientific study of the ghost particles believed to hold the key to understanding the evolution of the universe.

Advertisement

Among other applications, the accelerator will send the beam 800 miles to the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment in South Dakota. It will also provide increased beam power for a variety of research and experiments at Fermilab.

The DOE formally approved construction of the accelerator project in April 2022, funded by congressional appropriation.

In December, Fermilab signed an agreement with Whittaker Construction and Excavation, a LaSalle County contractor hired to oversee the project. Whittaker subcontracted with Nucor Harris Rebar Midwest for supporting form and concrete preparation work, which then subcontracted with Harris Rebar Placing for reinforcing steel and couplers installation. The injured worker was employed by Harris Rebar Placing.

We are in the process of working toward a restart, said Kevin Bomstad, senior project manager for Whittaker Construction. It was a severe accident, and I think were all trying to cross our ts and dot our is and comply. Were obviously anxious to return to work. But we understand there are certain measures that need to be taken on all parts.

Nucor Harris Rebar Midwest and Harris Rebar Placing, affiliated companies with local offices in Bourbonnais, did not respond to requests for comment. Canadian-based parent company Nucor Harris Rebar also did not respond.

Bomstad said both Whittaker and the subcontractors remain on the project, but he did not comment on the lawsuit.

Advertisement

Site excavation began Feb. 23, according to Fermilab. On May 24, Whittaker carpenters installed several sections of form walls on the north and west sides of the project, using aerial lifts, according to the report. The following day, Harris Rebar Placing ironworkers used a crane to install a rebar column at the northwest corner of what was to be the front-end building housing the start of the PIP-II linear accelerator.

On the afternoon of May 25, Daniels was tasked with climbing the wall to secure a rebar template being hoisted on the other side by three colleagues. He lost his footing and fell to a concrete slab below, striking a diagonal cross brace halfway down, according to the DOE report. A fall arrest system worn by the worker was not applied or utilized, and he sustained serious injuries, the report said.

Fisher said Daniels should have been provided an aerial lift to do the work, which was available onsite. Another option would have been a ladder. Daniels should have at least received required instructions on where and how to attach his safety harness as he ascended, which he did not, Fisher said.

Instead, Daniels climbed the wall using narrow horizontal metal pieces of the form wall as a foothold, while grabbing onto whatever he could on his way up, Fisher said.

There was a real breach of safety protocol by numerous designated safety people for the defendants who should have known these things, Fisher said. And all of these things would have stopped Mr. Daniels from falling approximately 25 feet from the top of the form.

Fermilab's $1 billion Proton Improvement Plan II construction site was shut down in May after an ironworker fell 23 feet from a wall and was severely injured. (Fermilab)

The fall happened about 1 p.m. Within seconds, co-workers and a supervisor came to the aid of the fallen ironworker, who was initially unconscious, according to the report. But the process to render medical assistance encountered a number of obstacles.

Advertisement

The nearest first aid kit was located in the Whittaker construction trailer, outside the excavation area, so a bandanna was used to wipe away blood from his mouth, according to the DOE report. The workers called the FRA emergency dispatch using a number affixed to their hard hats. The FRA Fire Department arrived within minutes, with workers carrying the injured man on a stretcher to meet the ambulance.

Batavia paramedics arrived on the scene and the injured worker was moved to their ambulance at 1:29 p.m., according to the report.

The worker regained consciousness, but given the severity of the fall, emergency responders transported him to a Level 1 trauma center. They called LifeStar Chicago to airlift the worker via helicopter to Good Samaritan Hospital, hoping to save time over an ambulance ride, according to the report.

The helicopter landed at the construction site at 1:51 p.m., and the worker arrived at the hospital at 2:26 p.m.  more than 80 minutes after the fall. The report found that the helicopter evacuation took 25 minutes longer than if the worker had been transported to the hospital by ambulance.

No one witnessed the accident, but investigators relied on the online construction camera, which remains active, as well as a Fermilab security camera, to reconstruct what happened.

The DOE report neither determines nor implies liability, but recommended a long list of managerial and safety controls needed to prevent a recurrence of such an accident. Those include correcting work control deficiencies, conducting ongoing field verification of safety compliance and establishing a flow down of safety requirements from the FRA to all levels of subcontractors.

Advertisement

FRA is already implementing improvements in its oversight functions for its subcontractors safety measures, Marc said in an email. A focused effort to broadly educate workers across the lab and the workers who come to the lab as subcontractors in workplace safety is ongoing. These efforts include enhancement of oversight when subcontractors hold the means and methods of construction.

Those measures may help restart the project, but the lawsuit, which was filed May 31 in Cook County Circuit Court against Fermi Research Alliance and Whittaker Construction, remains ongoing. Fisher plans to file an amended lawsuit Thursday, adding Nucor Harris Rebar Midwest as a defendant. The company subcontracted his clients employer, Harris Rebar Placing.

The lawsuit alleges construction negligence by Fermi Research Alliance, Whittaker Construction and the subcontractors, and is seeking in excess of $50,000 plus legal costs. As part of the lawsuit, Fisher filed an ancillary action on behalf of Daniels wife, Geraldine Daniels, for loss of consortium, which allows the spouse of an injured person to recover damages caused by the impairment of the marital relationship.

Daniels, who was in an induced coma for nearly a month, suffered multiple skull fractures, collapsed lungs, a scapular fracture, rib fractures, spinal fractures and an altered mental status, Fisher said. He was at Good Samaritan Hospital for more than five weeks and then transferred to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago for a stay that lasted well over another month.

More recently, Daniels was discharged to rehabilitative home care, Fisher said.

James is still in the early stages of whatever recovery hes going to make, Fisher said. Its going to be awhile before we can actually ascertain true damages. But itll be something significant, certainly.

Advertisement

rchannick@chicagotribune.com
Dollar General faces a lawsuit from the Missouri Attorney Generals Office, which has accused the national retailer of deceptive and unfair pricing.

In a joint investigation with the Missouri Department of Agriculture, Attorney General Andrew Bailey found that 92 out of the 147 Missouri Dollar General stores visited were selling some products for prices other than what was listed on the merchandise or shelves.

Prices are at an all-time high, Bailey said in a release. The last thing Missourians need is to feel the brunt of Dollar Generals scheme. We will move forward undeterred in our fight to obtain full restitution for all affected.

Bailey has asked for an injunction, full restitution, civil penalties, and other relief if Dollar General is found guilty of violating the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act.

Candles, toilet paper, lip balm, lemonade, tire foam and drink coolers all have one thing in common at Dollar General stores across the state of Missouri: the prices charged at the point of sale are frequently higher than the prices listed on the shelf, states the petition filed against the retailer.

Investigators reported price discrepancies up to $6.50 per item, though the average amount overcharged was $2.71 for more than 5,000 items price checked. Some items were also found to cost less than the advertised price.

Dollar General operates more than 600 retail stores across Missouri. The retailer is a common staple of small rural communities, sometimes being the only provider of grocery items in a given municipality.

The retailer did not respond to requests for comment in time for inclusion in this article.

However, when asked by Barrons in March about accusations of overcharging, it released a statement saying, Dollar General is committed to providing customers with accurate prices on items purchased in our stores, and we are disappointed any time we fail to deliver on this commitment. When a pricing discrepancy is identified, our store teams are empowered to correct the matter on the spot for our customers.

Some may wonder why the Department of Agriculture was involved in this investigation. It is because of the state departments Weights and Measures Division, which is responsible for surveilling devices used for weighing and measuring items, such as price scanners in retail stores.

I applaud the Attorney General for working with our Weights and Measures team to protect Missouri consumers by ensuring that the price charged at checkout matches the advertised price on the shelf, said Missouri Department of Agriculture Director Chris Chinn in a release.

More: Politician or the people's lawyer? How the role of Missouri Attorney General has evolved

This isnt the first time that Missouris Attorney General took on a national retailer. In 2013, former Attorney General Chris Koster filed a lawsuit against Walgreens for deceptive pricing, resulting in a 2014 court order to resolve incorrect and expired tags.

Koster filed a motion to hold the retailer in contempt in 2015, after a renewed investigation found more instances of incorrect and expired price tags.

Part of the responsibilities of the Missouri Attorney General include prosecuting perpetrators of consumer fraud. Bailey encourages consumers to report these crimes to his office by calling the Consumer Protection hotline at 800-392-8222 or submitting a complaint online at ago.mo.gov.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Missouri attorney general sues Dollar General for deceptive pricing
Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) slammed House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) on Wednesday, saying his colleague was never going to impeach President Joe Biden and accusing the Republican leader of gaslighting members of his party.

Hes throwing impeachment out like an ill-cast lure with no real intention to follow through, Gaetz said of the speaker in an interview with MSNBCs Ari Melber . If you were really serious, you would subpoena Hunter Biden , get answers. Theyre not serious. And thats why you see this failure theater in the absence of real accountability.

Rep. Matt Gaetz on his Biden impeachment push. pic.twitter.com/61438Z8Bpa  The Beat with Ari Melber  (@TheBeatWithAri) September 13, 2023

McCarthy said Tuesday he was unilaterally directing House committees to launch an impeachment inquiry into the president, saying Republicans had uncovered serious and credible allegations that paint a picture of a culture of corruption in the White House. Those claims center on millions of dollars in payments made by foreign nationals to the presidents son Hunter Biden, including during years when Joe Biden was serving as vice president.

The allegations, however, rely on exaggerations pushed by a far-right faction in the Republican Party that includes Gaetz.

The White House has rejected the claims as unprecedented and unfounded, adding that in virtually all cases, [the claims] have been actively disproven.

They have turned up no evidence, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said this week. This is a political stunt.

Despite McCarthys announcement, Gaetz called the speakers impeachment plans a baby step, dismissing the inquiry Wednesday as the same illusion and the same mirage hes used before.

McCarthy has responded to his colleagues rhetoric with his own attacks, saying Gaetz was upset about an ethics complaint. The speaker was referencing an ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation into allegations Gaetz engaged in sexual misconduct and drug use.

Related...
LONDON  General Dynamics UK is discussing with the British Army a possible further order for an updated version of its Foxhound protected patrol vehicle, the company has said.

An Mk 2 version of the ride, which could include a variant with a hybrid electric drive, is likely to be offered to the British Army for a requirement known as the land mobility pipeline.

The British acquired 400 Foxhounds in 2012 to equip infantry with a vehicle protected primarily against mine blasts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Now the company is hoping to get the vehicle back in production with a refreshed version of the Foxhound meeting Army requirements under the land mobility pipeline  previously called the protected mobility pipeline.

Its relatively early days but we have described to them [the British Army] what we think the Mk2 would look like. Its a fairly active conversation with them about the vehicle, a company spokesman told Defense News. We are still waiting to see precisely what the requirement is but we would like Foxhound to be a candidate.

Answering questions in Parliament in June, procurement minister James Cartlidge said the land mobility program was currently in its concept phase.

Subject to confirmation during the approvals process, it is anticipated that the program will seek to deliver four categories of platforms, he said, with a general-support variant on the wish list alongside light, medium and heavy protected versions.

Ministry of Defence officials said last year that the program would be funded to the tune of 1 billion, or $1.2 billion, starting in 2025.

A key upgrade could be the fitting of a hybrid engine.

The General Dynamics spokesman said a hybrid-powered variant may not be the standard fit for Foxhound, but it could make up a portion of the fleet.

The company received a deal by the MoD in 2020 to undertake demonstrator work with the Army on an electric-drive Foxhound as part of its then protected mobility program.

We have done prototype demonstrators with hybrid drive so its pretty mature, said the spokesman.
Fulton County Judge Scott McAfee ruled Thursday in favor of severing the trials for 17 of the defendants, including former President Donald Trump , from that of two other defendants charged over alleged efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in Georgia.

The trial for the two defendants, lawyers Kenneth Chesebro and Sidney Powell , is scheduled to begin Oct. 23. McAfee denied their request to have trials separate from each other. The judge said his decision "is simply a procedural and logistical inevitability."

"Beginning with the logistical concerns, the Fulton County Courthouse simply contains no courtroom adequately large enough to hold all 19 defendants, their multiple attorneys and support staff, the sheriff's deputies, court personnel, and the State's prosecutorial team," he wrote in his ruling. "Relocating to another larger venue raises security concerns that cannot be rapidly addressed."

McAfee also pointed to the projected length of trial as a factor. Prosecutors have said it could be four months long, with over 150 witnesses.

"[W]e must consider the ripple effects of a monthslong, multi-defendant trial on the local criminal justice system, sidelining dozens of defense counsel from handling other cases and preventing this Court  and quite likely most colleagues  from managing the rest of the docket," the judge said.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks at the Monument Leaders Rally hosted by the South Dakota Republican Party on September 08, 2023 in Rapid City, South Dakota. / Credit: Scott Olson / Getty Images

Chesebro and Powell were among the 19 defendants indicted by a Fulton County grand jury last month on charges stemming from an alleged scheme to reverse Trump's loss in Georgia's 2020 presidential election. All 19 charged, including Trump, pleaded not guilty to the counts filed against them.

Chesebro and Powell each invoked their right to a speedy trial and asked McAfee, who is presiding over the racketeering case, to separate their cases not only from one another, but also from the other 17 defendants charged in the sprawling indictment. McAfee held arguments on their requests last week.

McAfee called it an "absolute necessity" for the 17 defendants to be tried separate from Chesebro and Powell, and noted that "additional divisions of these 17 defendants may well be required."

Inside the courthouse, another major RICO case, the Young Slime Life (YSL) trial, has been mired in jury selection for months, wrote that he "will endeavor to have a jury selected and sworn by November 3, 2023," in the trial of Chesebro and Powell.

"Defendants Chesebro and Powell will join each other at trial, however, the other 17 defendants are severed from these two," he concluded. "Additional severances may follow."

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis had argued all 19 defendants should be tried together, writing in a court filing that it would be feasible to do so, "whereas breaking this case up into multiple lengthy trials would create an enormous strain on the judicial resources of the Fulton County Superior Court."

In addition to addressing motions for severance, McAfee denied requests from former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, former Justice Department official Jeff Clark, and defendants David Shafer and Shawn Still to stay the proceedings in Fulton County while their motions to move their case to a federal venue are pending. This means they must continue to meet the deadlines in the Fulton County Court as scheduled.

A federal judge last week turned down Meadows' attempt to move his case to federal court and sent it back to the Fulton County Superior Court. Meadows has appealed the decision to the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, and a three-judge panel is set to consider Friday a request by Meadows to pause the U.S. district court's order while his appeal proceeds.

Trump, too, has indicted that he may seek to move his case to federal court, according to a filing from his lawyers.

Chesebro has been charged with seven counts related to an alleged plot to submit a false slate of presidential electors from Georgia who would support Trump. The indictment alleges that the lawyer proposed in a memo to the former president's allies a "bold, controversial strategy" that involved appointing alternate electors who were loyal to Trump in several states.

Powell was among the conservative lawyers who pushed baseless claims of widespread fraud in the 2020 election and participated in a contentious meeting at the White House in December 2020, during which White House lawyers confronted her and lawyer Rudy Giuliani about their election claims.

The indictment alleges that Powell coordinated with a data company, SullivanStrickler, to access election data from Coffee County, Georgia. She faces seven counts related to those efforts.

Co-worker of Gilgo Beach murders suspect says he unnerved her by tracking her down on vacation

Judge rules DA can't try all 19 defendants together in Trump-Georgia case

Libya flooding: Entire families swept away, more than 5,300 killed
Col. Chris Wright, Commissioner of the Georgia Dept. of Public Safety, which includes the Georgia State Patrol, confirmed to Channel 2 Investigative Reporter Mark Winne he intends to retire at the end of September.

Wright told Winne he announced it to the Georgia Board of Public Safety on Thursday.

Gov. Brian Kemp announced Lt. Colonel William Hitchens III will be serving as the next DPS commissioner and Colonel of the Georgia State Patrol starting Oct. 1, following the unanimous vote approving the shift by the Board.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Wright served as a member of law enforcement in Georgia for close to 30 years.

He first began his career as a radio operator with the G Georgia State Patrol in 1994 in Valdosta, before attending the Georgia State Patrol Trooper School and graduating in 1995, according to state officials.

Wright also served as a member of the Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team and was honored as the Peace Officer of the Year in 1995 by the Peace Officers Association of Georgia.

During his career, Wright also was a part of the 1996 security detail for the Olympic Torch Relay. In 2011, Wright became Troop H Commander of the Georgia State Patrol, later being promoted to troop commander in 2015 and South Adjutant of GSP, before rising to the head of the DPS and GSP in 2020.

TRENDING STORIES:

Thanking Wright for his service and long career in law enforcement, Kemp said Wright had done an incredible job as head of DPS.

During times of civil unrest and the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, Colonel Wright demonstrated resilience, foresight, and strength that has led to reductions in crime and safer communities all across Georgia. He has led as he served  with distinction  and we wish him and his family well in this next chapter, Kemp said in a statement.

Wright shepherded the department through a critical period in its history, including leading a task force to assist local police with combatting the violent crime spike and street racing at Kemps direction.

Kemp announced multiple role changes among public safety officials as a result of both Wrights retirement and Hitchens promotion.

The Board also unanimously confirmed Major Kendrick Lowe to serve as Lt. Colonel of the Georgia State Patrol and Deputy Commissioner for DPS, also effective Oct. 1. Lt. Colonel Joshua Lamb will continue his service as a valued member of the senior DPS leadership team and will be promoted to Assistant Commissioner, according to the governors office.

Hitchens currently serves as the Director of Field Operations for the GSP, overseeing the Georgia State Patrol, the Motor Carrier Compliance Division, the Capitol Police Division, the Headquarters Adjutant, and the Special Operations Adjutant, according to the DPS. He graduated from the same 69th Trooper School as Wright in 1995, according to the state.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

OTHER NEWS:
Pay raises of $11,000 for state law enforcement officers during the last two years still havent solved recruitment and retention challenges for a Georgia State Patrol forced into a bidding war.

Agencies are competing over an ever-decreasing pool of candidates, Lt. Col. William Billy Hitchens III, deputy commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety, told a state House working group Thursday.

Despite the raises, Georgia is 36th in the nation in trooper salaries and 50th in number of troopers per capita, Hitchens said.

House Speaker Jon Burns, R-Newington, formed the House Working Group on Public Safety earlier this year to look for ways to attract and retain more law enforcement officers.

Hitchens said many factors across the country have made the task more difficult in the last several years, including the public demonization of police after the highly publicized deaths of Black citizens at the hands of white law enforcement officers, moves by some cities to defund the police, and calls for end to qualified immunity for police officers.

You cant expect police officers to make split-second decisions without qualified immunity, he said. They will not act because they have no [legal] protection.

Lt. Col. Joshua Lamb, director of administrative services for the Department of Public Safety, said the agency is moving to address the recruitment issue with an accelerated trooper school program that allows candidates to complete their training in fewer than the 32 to 34 weeks the traditional model requires.

That was probably one of the biggest steps weve taken to make it more appealing without lowering standards, he said.

But Hitchens said more is needed if the Georgia Department of Public Safety is to compete successfully with what other law enforcement agencies are offering. He listed such perks as education incentives, signing bonuses, and moving expenses as examples of what other police agencies are providing to lure recruits.

Lamb also suggested Georgia lawmakers consider providing annualized cost-of-living adjustments to troopers and convert to a defined-benefit retirement plan rather than the 401(k) model currently in use.

State Rep. J Collins, R-Villa Rica, chairman of the House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee and a member of the working group, said Hitchens and Lamb made a good case for the severity of the departments workforce plight.

The numbers dont lie. They are what they are, Collins said. The benefits and pay have to increase for us to get those numbers up.
Members of the German Bundestag have written a letter to German hancellor Olaf Scholz and Defence Minister Boris Pistorius demanding that Ukraine be supplied with long-range Taurus missiles.

Source: European Pravda with reference to Tagesschau

Details: The letter was signed by Marie-Agnes Straka-Zimmermann (Free Democrats), Anton Hofreiter (The Greens) and Andreas Schwarz (Social Democratic Party of Germany).

On the eve of the next meeting of the Contact Group, known as the Ramstein format, the MPs stated the need to provide Ukraine with further commitments to help it fight Russia.

"In particular, Ukraine needs Taurus cruise missile systems in service with the Bundeswehr in order to target Russian military logistics," the letter reads.

The MPs stressed that representatives of the Ukrainian government had assured them in personal conversations that these missiles would be used exclusively on the territory of Ukraine.

"We see no reason to doubt this promise," they continued, adding that Germany should continue to supply air defence equipment, ammunition, medical equipment and armoured vehicles, especially battle tanks and infantry fighting vehicles.

At the same time, the letter says, it is particularly important to ensure the sustainability of Ukrainian troops.

"This requires, among other things, spare parts for the systems already delivered and support in the repair of these systems," the letter says.

Background:

The German government has not yet decided whether to supply Ukraine with Taurus cruise missiles.

At the same time, Dmytro Kuleba, Foreign Minister of Ukraine, is convinced that the transfer of Taurus missiles from Germany to Ukraine is only a "matter of time".

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
A group of three German MPs have sent a letter to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to demand the delivery of Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine, Der Spiegel reported on Sept. 14.

The MPs argue that Ukraine needs the German long-range missiles to "specifically weaken Russian war logistics" amidst the ongoing counteroffensive.

The letter was written by Andreas Schwarz from Scholz's own Social Democratic Party, Anton Hofreiter from the Greens, and Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann from the Free Democrats Party.

All three parties make up the current governing coalition in the Bundestag, the German parliament. Strack-Zimmermann is the head of the parliament's defense committee.

Ukraine submitted a request to Germany for Taurus missiles in May.

"The freedom of Ukraine is also the freedom of Europe," and the more time the German government spends "assessing" the situation, "the more people die," Strack-Zimmermann commented on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The letter emphasized that Kyiv "has assured us in personal discussions that this weapons system will be used exclusively on Ukrainian territory."

"We see no reason to doubt this commitment," the MPs wrote.

Media reports emerged over the summer that the German government is hesitant to deliver the air-launched missiles, which have a range of up to 500 kilometers, due to concerns that they will be used in strikes on Russian territory.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba emphasized in August that Taurus missiles would be "used solely inside our borders."

There are currently 600 Taurus missiles stored in German military depots, Der Speigel reported.

Read also: Kuleba says there is progress in talks on getting Taurus missiles

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Its Thursday, Chicago.

Temps are cooling yet there are so many things to do across Chicagoland. Were looking forward to Riot Fest at Douglass Park this weekend and live music elsewhere in the city this fall.

Advertisement

In food, we have a review for Kyoten Next Door, a decidedly lower-priced omakase restaurant from chef Otto Phan in Logan Square, that still packs a punch with flavor, Tribune critic Nick Kindelsperger writes. Stay tuned for his review of sister restaurant Kyoten on Monday.

Enjoy the weekend, well see you next week.

Advertisement

 Lauryn Azu, deputy senior editor

Chef Otto Phan at Kyoten, 2507 W Armitage Ave, in the Logan Square neighborhood on August 24, 2023. (E. Jason Wambsgans/Chicago Tribune)

Kyoten Next Door is more than a sushi sequel, Tribune critic Nick Kindelsperger writes. At the new restaurant from chef Otto Phan, a 15-course meal goes for only $159, and the quality doesnt falter. Read his full review here.

Robert Smith, center, and The Cure at the United Center in Chicago on June 10, 2023. (Vincent D. Johnson/for the Chicago Tribune)

Riot Fest is back this weekend in Douglass Park. Headliners such as the Foo Fighters Friday, Queens of the Stone Age Saturday and The Cure Sunday make it a musical showdown for rockers of every age. Read more here.

Chef/partner Matteo Lo Bianco prepares the first course of a tasting menu for dinner at Maman Zari, 4639 N. Kedzie Ave., on Aug. 29, 2023, in Chicago. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)

What is perhaps Chicagos first Persian fine-dining restaurant opened in Albany Park in July. Read here how a former flight attendants cultural memories and an Italian chefs cuisine finesse brought the project to fruition.

Yeule performs at Pitchfork Music Festival in Chicagos Union Park on July 16, 2022. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)

Eat. Watch. Do. Weekly What to eat. What to watch. What you need to live your best life ... now. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy >

Music critic Britt Julious names the shows shes looking forward to the most this fall, including Victoria Monet at the House of Blues, Raphael Saadiq and Tony! Toni! Tone! at The Chicago Theatre, and Lauryn Hill at United Center. Read on here.

At Harczak's Sausage Company, on Higgins Avenue in Chicago, a smoked Polish sausage sandwich is made on Aug. 8, 2022. After being deep fried, the sausage is grilled. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

Picking up a Polish sausage to cook at home should be simple. But in Chicago, the sheer number of options almost boggles the mind. Tribune critic Nick Kindelsperger lists his favorites here.

A beleaguered and possibly haunted new mother (Clark Backo) is the center of the supernatural riddle "The Changeling." (Apple TV+)

The Changeling, now streaming on Apple TV+, does more than merely depict the sleeplessness and no-exit despair of so much postpartum depression, Tribune critic Michael Phillips writes. Read his review of the dark, fantastic tale here.

Oktoberfest on Division Street. The Lodge and the Die Kellerknaben Polka Band.

October is right around the corner, which means Oktoberfest is almost here. Break out your lederhosen for a meal at a Chicago restaurant near you  check out our list here.

Advertisement

Installation view of William Estrada: Multiples & Multitudes at Hyde Park Art Center. (Tom VanEynde/HANDOUT)

Rainy fall days were made for deep thoughts and museum gallery exploration. Indulge your creative self at 10 of critic Lori Waxmans picks for exhibitions to visit this fall, which you can read here.

Clockwise from top left: The Antioch Baptist Church in Venice, Chicago's Finest Marina in Chicago, the Second Reading Book Sho in Alton and The Gillett house in Jacksonville are all Underground Railroad sites in Illinois. The photographs were made using an tintype filter. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

September is International Underground Railroad Month. With this three-day itinerary to visit Underground Railroad sites across the state, you can visit the places where freedom seekers took refuge and get to know the stories of how they made new lives for themselves in Illinois communities. Read the guide here.

Jack Ball, center, as Seymour, and cast, in "Little Shop of Horrors" at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora. (Liz Lauren/HANDOUT)

Paramount Theatres production of Little Shop of Horrors, which opened Friday, isnt so little, Tribune critic Chris Jones writes. Read his review of the show he says is packed with talent, but needs some shaping, here.
Video captured the chaotic moment an alligator swam directly towards a group of Girl Scouts.

The troop leader told Insider she put herself in between the gator and girls to protect them.

Some of the girls actually jumped into the water when the panic started, unaware there was an alligator.

A Girl Scout troop in Texas on a leisurely camping trip over the weekend found themselves frantically scrambling out of a lake after a 14-foot alligator decided to slide into the water and join them.

The scary encounter, captured on video and obtained by local outlet KPRC 2, took place Saturday at Lake Raven in Huntsville State Park, north of Houston.

Troop leader Nichole Glenn told Insider she was taking a photo of her daughter and another girl who were in the water when it all started. Others girls in the troop were on dock platform, out of the water, a short way off shore.

"While I was taking the picture, I noticed a log in the water, which wasn't a log," she said.

Glenn quickly realized the "log" was actually an alligator, not too far away from where they were swimming. The 53-year-old dropped her phone, jumped down a set of concrete steps and landed on the bank, and immediately told the girls in the water to get out.

While she knew the girls on the dock would not be able to hear her, she also though they may be safe since they were out of the water. But then other people on shore began to panic, shouting "alligator" and scrambling away.

Nichole Glenn said the alligator was about 14 feet long. Nichole Glenn

The girls on the dock, unaware what was causing the mayhem, actually started diving into the water so they could swim to shore. Glenn said the alligator started swimming directly toward them with some speed, as was captured on video.

The video opens with the girls already screaming and trying to get out of the lake, while the alligator can be seen gliding along the water directly towards where many of them are swimming.

"I was thinking, this is the day I die," Ava Miller, an 11-year-old member of the troop, told KPRC 2. "It was moving faster than us or about the same."

The video showed the last girl on the dock, Erin White, jumping into the water right as it was swimming their direction. Glenn said White still did not know there was an alligator and at that point just thought her friends were leaving her.

"I was close enough to get hurt. And I didn't even know it was there," White told KPRC 2. "So I should probably focus on my surroundings more."

Glenn said she put herself in between the alligators and the girls as they were swimming to shore, adding: "I made sure if he was going to eat somebody, he would eat me first."

Some of the girls realized what was happening while they rushed to shore. Glenn said White was the last girl to get in, and that the two of them were the last people in the water, with the alligator only around 10 feet away at that point.

"I knew at that moment both of us aren't going to get away from the alligator because he was moving too fast," Glenn said, so she shoved White up onto the shore and then swam towards the gator.

At that point, other people nearby had joined and started splashing, successfully scaring the alligator away. But it didn't totally leave the area. Glenn said it lingered nearby for over an hour until wildlife officials showed up and directed the public to leave.

The Girl Scout troop. Nichole Glenn

Glenn said the alligator's head was two times the size of her torso, and that it was about 14 feet long. The Girl Scouts nicknamed it "Karen."

Glenn said she was certain in the moment she was going to die, even after recently going through chemotherapy and radiation to survive cancer.

She said she was thinking: "Here I am, I'm going to survive cancer and I'm going to have to feed myself to an alligator in front of my child and all my Girl Scouts."

Glenn said she'll never swim in a lake again, but that the Girl Scouts are doing better days after the ordeal. She said she thinks they were just really excited to be interviewed by the news.

While alligator attacks are rare, they do happen. In South Carolina in July a 69-year-old woman was killed by an alligator while walking her dog. When authorities responded to the scene, the alligator was observed "guarding" the woman's body, police said.

A wildlife expert previously told Insider's Graham Flanagan that if an alligator charges at you, you should run away as fast as you can  in a straight line, not in a zig-zag  and that you should not play dead.

Read the original article on Insider
A girl fought off an attacker on a walking trail while screaming for help before escaping, Colorado sheriffs officials reported.

The girl, whose age was not provided, told authorities a man grabbed her and pushed her down Tuesday, Sept. 12, the Boulder County Sheriffs Office said in a news release.

The girl pushed and kicked the attacker and screamed for help, deputies said. She ran away and called 911.

Deputies arrested Cole Priest, 32, nearby on charges of assault, false imprisonment and child abuse, the release said.

Investigators believe there may be additional victims. They ask anyone with information to contact detective Eric Robinson at 303-441-4822 or erobinson@bouldercounty.gov.

Boulder County is about 55 miles northwest of Denver.

40-year-old woman set fire to Target to hide baby formula theft, California police say

Youth accused in 3 separate hit-and-runs involving bikes, California police say

Boyfriend accused of dismembering body found in bag on shoreline, California cops say
Does truth matter to Kansas antiabortion conservatives?

The question pops up  once again  because State Treasurer Steven Johnson last week announced that a newly-formed nonprofit group, the Kansas Pregnancy Care Network, was being picked to run the states new $2 million Alternatives to Abortion program. KPCN was chosen over two other out-of-state bidders that met eligibility requirements.

KPCN will serve women facing the difficulties of an unplanned pregnancy, Johnson said in a press release.

How well the effort will help those women is an open question. Legislators created the program earlier this year over Gov. Laura Kellys veto.

Its based on a similar state-backed effort in Texas that has been accused of misleading women with scare tactics about the alleged health consequences of having an abortion. And other reports suggest antiabortion crisis pregnancy centers often lure women with deceptive ads targeted at online searches for terms abortion clinic near me and Planned Parenthood.

Maybe the new Kansas program will operate with more fidelity to the truth. But theres reason for doubt.

Why? Because the president of KPCNs board is none other than former Congressman Tim Huelskamp.

You remember Huelskamp dont you? He played a brief  ugly  role in last years big statewide vote on an antiabortion amendment to the Kansas Constitution.

Huelskamps Do Right PAC paid $32,092 to Alliance Forge, a GOP-linked tech firm, which in turn sent out a deeply misleading text message to Kansas voters in the days leading up to that election.

Women in KS are losing their choice on reproductive rights, the anonymous sender wrote. Voting YES on the Amendment will give women a choice. Vote YES to protect womens health.

In fact, the exact opposite was true. A yes vote on the amendment was a vote to give the Kansas Legislature the power to ban abortion in the state.

Voters werent fooled. More than a few were enraged by the dirty trick. The amendment lost, overwhelmingly. Abortion is still legal, and highly regulated, in Kansas.

And when reporters contacted Huelskamp about his connection to the texts, he hung up abruptly rather than answer questions about efforts to pull the wool over the eyes of pro-choice Kansans. He later claimed there was no evidence of misconduct.

Pro-life cause more important than democracy?

Where to start?

Lets go with the obvious: If Kansas Republicans took their part in governing this state seriously  if they cared about doing right by their constituents more than they wanted to wallow in their ideological biases  they wouldnt hand over $2 million in taxpayer money to a figure with such giant questions about honesty in his recent past.

This isnt about ideology. Its about integrity.

I fervently believe that its possible to be pro-life and truthful, and that most people who claim the pro-life mantle really do conduct themselves honestly, even if I disagree with them. Couldnt Kansas Republicans find one of those folks to run their new program?

You almost wonder if theyre trying to send a message.

Kansas conservatives have spent the year since the amendment vote demonstrating their antiabortion bona fides. Its not just the new alternatives program  theyve also imposed requirements that women possibly seeking abortions be given sketchy information about the procedure. Attorney General Kris Kobach, meanwhile, has successfully warned the chain pharmacy Walgreens against providing abortion pills in the state.

All of this was to be expected. Voters made clear their preference to protect abortion rights in Kansas. Conservatives dont much care. For true believers, the antiabortion cause is more important than democracy. So the fight goes on.

The selection of a Huelskamp-led group, though, demonstrates something more than GOP disregard for the democratic process in Kansas. Its an expression of sheer contempt  for the voters who defeated the amendment, and for the notion that conservatives have to play by any rules of honest or fair conduct.

The lesson? There are no red lines for the Kansas right when it comes to abortion politics. Play the cards right, and you might even get a big fat state contract.
Google CEO Sundar Pichai isn't in a rush to catch up to OpenAI, he told Wired.

Releasing Google's AI products before ChatGPT was launched "wouldn't have worked out as well," he said.

Pichai's thoughts on AI come months after Google reportedly declared a "code red" for its search engine, per NYT.

Since OpenAI launched ChatGPT, its buzzy AI chatbot, last November, big tech companies like Microsoft have released their own generative AI tools to cash in on the AI hype. But Google isn't in a rush to catch up  at least for now.

Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google, said in an interview that he was excited when ChatGPT came out because it showed that people were "ready to understand and play with the technology."

But even though Google has been making strides to become an "AI-first company" since 2016, Pichai said he felt that Google's AI technology "needed to mature a bit more before we put it in our products."

"In some ways, it was an exciting moment for me, because we are building that underlying technology and deploying it across our products," Pichai told Wired in an interview published on Monday. "But we are still being deliberate where we need to be. The technology arc is long, and I feel very comfortable about where we are."

When asked if Google should have launched "something like GPT earlier than OpenAI did," Pichai said that doing so wouldn't make much of a difference for Google's bottom line in the long-run.

"It's not fully clear to me that it might have worked out as well," Pichai said in response to Wired's question. "The fact is, we could do more after people had seen how it works. It really won't matter in the next five to 10 years."

Google didn't immediately respond to Insider's request for comment before publication.

Pichai's recent comments on AI seemed to have strayed away from his concerns that Google may be falling behind on its AI efforts. In December 2022  just weeks after ChatGPT came out  the New York Times reported that Google's management declared a "code red" for the company out of fear that OpenAI's chatbot may one day replace Google's search engine.

Since then, Pichai has been ramping up Google's efforts to launch its own generative AI tools. As of December, the CEO, per the Times, redirected numerous groups in the company to refocus their efforts on addressing the threat that ChatGPT poses to its search engine business.

In March, Google released its own AI chatbot, which it calls Bard, to select users, though its initial demonstration in February was seen as a flop after Bard gave an inaccurate answer to a question about the James Webb Space Telescope.

In turn, Google employees called the Bard's launch "rushed" and "botched," and even John Hennessy, the chairman of Google's parent company, Alphabet, said that the chatbot wasn't "really ready for a product yet."

Since the disastrous demo, Google has announced a slate of new AI products. In May, Google launched a service it calls "Duet AI for Workspace," where generative AI features have been integrated into Google Docs, Sheets, Gmail, and other preexisting products that the company says can boost creativity and productivity.

As of late August, Duet AI is now available for anyone to use.

Despite Google's new AI efforts, Pichai told Wired that integrating generative AI into its search engine  the product that generated approximately $208 billion in ad dollars, or 81% of Alphabet's overall revenue, in 2021  remains his company's key focus in its AI strategy. But only time will tell whether Google's core business will be able to survive.

"It's important to us to connect users with what's out on the web, and we are working deeply to make sure that continues to work well," Pichai said.

Correction: September 13, 2023  An earlier version of this story erroneously said Google CEO Sundar Pichai declared a "code red" over the company's search engine. The "code red" reference is based on a New York Times report that cites Google management, and Pichai has denied making such a declaration. The story also misstated the Google search engine's 2021 ad revenue. It was approximately $208 billion, not $208 million.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Google teamed up with iFixit in mid-2022 to give you access to authentic components that you can use to repair Pixel phones. Now, it seems like the two parties have expanded their partnership. As 9to5Google reports, iFixit has started selling several original parts for the Pixel tablet that Google had released in June. One of the most expensive components now available for sale is the tablet's rear case, which costs $200 and comes with three microphones, antennas, a power button with fingerprint unlock and volume controls.

If your tablet's battery gets busted, you can now purchase an authentic replacement for $67, while a rear facing camera to replace one that's having issues will set you back $25. One replacement speaker will also cost you $25, as will a replacement for the device's USB-C port. But if it's the tablet's screen that needs replacing, you'll have to pay $200 or more. You can either get the part only  consisting of a front glass digitizer screen, a 10.95-inch 2560 x 1600 pixel LCD and an 8-megapixel front-facing camera  for that price or get a pack with tools you'll need to open up the tablet for $6 more.

iFixit, of course, doesn't just sell the parts: Its Pixel tablet portal also contains guides on how you can repair the model for each component it's selling. You can follow them if you want to be sure you're doing the right thing, even if you're pretty good at tinkering with electronics. Aside from Google, iFixit also has partnerships with other brands, including Samsung, which teamed up with the how-to website last year to launch a fix-it-yourself program for its Galaxy devices.
Republicans are struggling over how to craft their message on abortion, an issue that has repeatedly kneecapped GOP candidates and that is seen as a huge problem next November.

No consistent message has emerged from the GOP presidential field, which has been all over the map with its strategies for winning over voters on the issue.

At one end stand hard-line abortion opponents such as former Vice President Mike Pence and Sen. Tim Scott (S.C.), who have argued for stiff bans on abortion across the nation.

Meanwhile, candidates such as former President Trump and former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley have urged restraint, warning that Republicans risk losing suburban women voters and others over the issue.

Yet even Haley and Trump have tough stances on abortion. Trump is directly responsible for the overturning of the Roe v. Wade decision; three of his Supreme Court nominees made up the majority decision. Haley, during her time as South Carolina governor, also backed legislation that would severely limit abortion rights. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has not said whether he supports a federal ban on the procedure but signed a six-week ban on the procedures with exceptions in his state.

We did not talk about the issue, and I will tell you why, Sarah Chamberlain, president and CEO of the Republican Main Street Partnership, said when discussing last years midterms.

I was personally sitting there with all men and a pollster and I said, this is going to be a huge issue, she continued. [They said], No, no, women are going to vote with their pocketbooks. I said no theyre not; I said theyre absolutely not. And they didnt.

Abortion was largely seen as the key issue that tempered the GOPs wins in the House and stopped the party from taking back the majority in the Senate in last years midterms.

This time around, Senate Republicans are pushing back against calls for a national ban.

The [National Republican Senatorial Committee] is encouraging Republicans to clearly state their opposition to a national abortion ban and support for reasonable limits on late-term abortions when babies can feel pain with exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother, said a source familiar with the strategy being employed by the NRSC. They are encouraging candidates to contrast that position with Democrats support for taxpayer-funded abortion without limits.

Chamberlain is in agreement that candidates should treat abortion as a state issue. If youre a Republican, you support giving more power to the states, she said.

Lets put it there, and then let the states deal with it and try to get it out of the federal arena, she said.

Chamberlain also cited polling commissioned by the Republican Main Street Partnership that found that 60 percent of Republicans said they think the issue should be left to individual states, while 32 percent said there should be a federal law on abortion restrictions; 8 percent said they were unsure.

I dont know if were going to be successful at doing that. If not, then I think we probably need to go to maybe the European-style abortion law, she said, referring to how many European countries ban elective abortion procedures after 17 weeks of pregnancy with exceptions for rape, incest and the life of the mother.

Whether a state has a ballot initiative on the legality of abortion could also impact particular races. In at least 10 states, including Florida, Ohio, South Dakota and Missouri, abortion rights advocates are considering ballot measures to codify rights to the procedure. Meanwhile, in other states including New York, Nevada, Maryland and Colorado, there could be opportunities to enshrine existing abortion protections to the procedure.

Ohios ballot measure is slated for this November, which could mean abortion access may not play in the states Senate race next year. Maryland and New Yorks measures will not take place until November 2024.

However, the issue could play up and down the ballot in a swing state such as Arizona, or even a red state such as Florida.

Itll be at the forefront of voters minds. It probably will drive turnout for Democrats there, so its an issue that Republicans will have to be very comfortable talking about, one Republican strategist told The Hill.

Democrats say they are hopeful after abortion rights supporters were victorious in Kansas, Kentucky, Montana and Michigan, where voters cast ballots backing rights to the procedure in the states. Democrats also attribute recent special election victories in Virginia, Wisconsin and New Hampshire to abortion rights messaging.

What that shows you is that even though its past 2022, a lot of these candidates are still talking about it, said Abhi Rahman, a Democratic strategist and communications director at the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee.

The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) echoed this sentiment in a statement to The Hill, telegraphing that it plans to keep the issue in the forefront next year.

On the record and on video, Republican Senate candidates have already staked out dangerous positions that would make abortion illegal and rip away womens right to make our own health care decisions, said Nora Keefe, a spokesperson for the DSCC. Well make sure voters see and hear what Republicans have said in their own words, and in 2024 voters will hold them accountable by rejecting them and their toxic agenda.

Republicans are in agreement that they need to paint Democrats stances on abortion as dangerous, pointing specifically to their positions on late-term abortions.

The truth is, theyre telling you there should be no restrictions on abortion, a second GOP strategist said. Its kind of like the goal post, at least for the Democrats, is literally moved to the point of  and I dont mean to be crass when I say this  its just not a baby until it leaves the hospital.

A Gallup poll released in June found that 69 percent of Americans said they believe abortion should generally be legal in the first three months of pregnancy, 37 percent said it should be legal in the second three months of pregnancy, and 22 percent said it should be legal in the last three months of pregnancy. While Gallups polling shows the results are the highest trends shown in its poll since 1996, there continues to be decreasing support for the procedures legalization in the later stages of pregnancy.

[In a lot of] voters minds, they just view Republicans as across-the-board no abortions whatsoever, no exceptions whatsoever, but when you actually dig into the details of what they actually believe, their position even among voters who call themselves pro-choice, their position is not that far out of line from the mainstream party platform, the first Republican strategist said.

Democrats are predictably skeptical.

Its the biggest loss of rights for a large group of people in the last 50 years, Rahman said. So no matter what they do, it really wont help them because all theyre doing is putting lipstick on a pig.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.






A 10-year-old at the cusp of a birthday is begging for a smartphone in the way only 10-year-olds can  with lots of whining and single-minded determination. Her parents, however, are just as adamant in their denial. No means no, case closed.

Desperate, she turned to me for support, zeroing in on the one factor that gets me every time. If I had a phone, we could talk when you wanted, she said. We wouldnt have to wait for my parents to FaceTime.

For good measure, she would even share phone privileges with her younger sister and brother, thus giving me unparalleled access to little people I love dearly. Her bargaining strategy was brilliant, if manipulative. And I was tempted, believe me.

I resisted, though. Her parents know best, and this smartphone saga is, by no means, my cause. Yet, her pleas got me thinking about the appropriate age for kids to be given a hand-held computer with connections to a virtual world that is as dangerous as it is wonderful.

Two days after my granddaughters campaign, I read about a small Irish town that made international news when parents joined forces to implement a smartphone ban for children until they finish elementary school. They decided on this unusual restriction because of concerns over rising anxiety among kids and their potential exposure to adult material.

Schools in the area had already either banned or restricted device use on their grounds, but this show of unity from parents and other organizations was a leap into the private sphere. It restricts phones at home and elsewhere until kids reach middle school and high school.

I like the idea, though I also believe that a one-size-fits-all decree is not likely to work for everyone. Family circumstances vary, children mature at different ages, and sometimes a step-by-step introduction to social media and other digital apps is better than a blanket prohibition. Nevertheless, the idea of banning, or at the very least restricting, smartphones until children reach a certain age is catching on.

Irish Health Minister Stephen Donnelly believes the policy deserves nationwide implementation. Citing the increasing number of studies pointing to the potential damage of screens, he wrote in the Irish Times: We regulate food and drink and medicines. We have extensive child protections in place in so many areas of our society. Were now beginning to do it in the digital space.

In truth, the concept of restrictions for devices has been edging forward very slowly and only after the proverbial horse has left the proverbial barn. In May, the American Psychological Association issued a warning on social media (read: smartphone use, since this is the primary access point) in adolescence and, before that, the American Association of Pediatrics offered a free 10-question tool to help parents figure out if their child is ready to handle a smartphone. The AAP also has guidance on how to create a media plan.

Last month the United Nations called for a ban on smartphones and smartwatches at school, no matter the age of the user. The UNESCO report revealed that about 25% of countries have implemented some kind of ban in educational settings, and pointed to studies that show their removal from campus had improved student learning in schools in Belgium, Spain and the United Kingdom.

Navigating the pitfalls of internet access was not something I had to do as a mother, and for that I am thankful. Raising kids is difficult enough without all the peer pressure, cyberbullying, and social anxiety that comes with these devices. I do not envy todays parents for the hard choices they must make.

I told the 10-year-old as much, pointing out her father hadnt received a cellphone  a flip one, at that  until college. He turned out all right, and so will she, even if she must endure through many phoneless tween years. Im not sure she believed me.

Ana Veciana-Suarez writes about family and social issues. Email her at avecianasuarez@gmail.com or visit her website anavecianasuarez.com. Follow @AnaVeciana.
Greater Manchester Police officers have reportedly had their warrant card details stolen in a major data breach, the Manchester Evening News has reported.



The newspaper reported the hack was aimed at a third-party company employed to produce its warrant cards and comes in the wake of a similar attack on the Metropolitan Police in London last month.



The force, which deploys more than 8,000 police officers, has confirmed information about its employees held by one if its suppliers had been subjected to an attack.



Financial details and home addresses are believed not to have been retrieved but that data obtained from warrant badges such as names, ranks and photographs may have been accessed, according to an email sent to GMP staff seen by the MEN.



The National Crime Agency is understood to be investigating.



Assistant Chief Constable Colin McFarlane of Greater Manchester Police said: We are aware of a ransomware attack affecting a third-party supplier of various UK organisations, including GMP, which holds some information on those employed by GMP.

At this stage, its not believed this data includes financial information.



We understand how concerning this is for our employees so, as we work to understand any impact on GMP, we have contacted the Information Commissioners Office and are doing everything we can to ensure employees are kept informed, their questions are answered, and they feel supported.



This is being treated extremely seriously, with a nationally led criminal investigation into the attack.



It comes just weeks after the Metropolitan Police announced it was investigating a suspected data breach after unauthorised access was gained to the systems of one of its suppliers.



The contractor was understood to have had access to names, ranks, photos, vetting levels and pay numbers for all of the forces 47,000 officers and staff.



The Metropolitan Police Federation, which represents 30,000 staff, warned the data breach could cause incalculable damage.



The organisations vice chair, Rick Prior, said the force had been made aware of the potential dangers of outsourcing operationally sensitive material to third parties years before.



While in Northern Ireland, officers had their data published last month in what has become the biggest security leak in the provinces history.



The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) declared a critical incident after a junior employee published online the data of all 9,276 serving officers and civilian employees, including dozens of staff who work with the British intelligence services.



Some officers were forced to leave their homes with the scandal ultimately costing the forces chief constable Simon Byrne to quit after politicians said they had lost confidence in him.

Mike Peake, chair of Greater Manchester Police Federation, said: Our colleagues are undertaking some of the most difficult and dangerous roles imaginable to catch criminals and keep the public safe.

To have any personal details potentially leaked out into the public domain in this manner - for all to possibly see  will understandably cause many officers concern and anxiety.

We are working with the force to mitigate the dangers and risks that this breach could have on our colleagues.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) interrupted a Democratic congresswoman accusing her Republican colleagues of hypocrisy on the issue of abortion, during a coronavirus subcommittee hearing on the erosion of the doctor-patient relationship during the pandemic.

It is truly hypocritical that my Republican colleagues are convening a hearing on government overreach into the doctor-patient relationship when their party is literally writing the playbook across our country on how to do exactly that, Rep. Jill Tokuda (D-Hawaii) said at the hearing Thursday.

Since the right-wing majority of the Supreme Court overturned Roe, extreme Republican lawmakers have been tripping over themselves to pass dangerous bans and restrictions, defying the will of the majority of Americans, Tokuda added.

Tokuda, during the hearing, cited a medical journal that said abortion is an essential component of womens health care. She continued, abortion is health care. When we criminalize , before she was cut off.

Its murdering babies, Greene said in an off-mic remark, interrupting Tokuda during her allotted speaking time. Greene continued, in sometimes unintelligible comments, before adding, Its murdering the unborn.

The Republican subcommittee chair called for order and said, I will expect that Ms. Tokuda has her right to make her comments. Everyone will get their time.

Greene remained silent for the rest of Tokudas remarks, but she reiterated her position when it was her turn to speak minutes later.

I find it pretty appalling that the Democrats on our committee are using this hearing to talk about the murder of unborn children, babies, people who have rights in our country due to the Constitution, Greene said.

Abortion is not health care. Its not. Its murder. Health care saves lives. And thats what many doctors tried to do during the COVID tyrannical shutdowns, Greene continued.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) on Thursday dubbed the House Freedom Caucus the burn-it-all-down caucus, a swipe at the conservative group that ousted her from its ranks over the summer.

Im not a member of the burn-it-all-down caucus anymore, Greene told reporters. Im a greatly, very happily a free agent and I want to do my job here.

Members of the caucus voted to boot Greene from their ranks over the summer after the Georgia Republican supported the debt limit bill that Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) and President Biden crafted to avoid a default, which drew ire from many in the right flank  some of whom are members of the caucus.

Her ouster also came after she clashed with Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), a member of the caucus. Greene called Boebert a little b- after the Colorado Republican unexpectedly forced a vote on her articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Greene criticized Boebert for not explaining her decision to the House GOP conference, and she said her Colorado colleague copied her articles of impeachment targeting Mayorkas.

Greenes removal from the conservative group marked a significant moment in her evolution on Capitol Hill. The Georgia Republican came to Congress in 2021 as a rabble rouser, quickly becoming a conservative thorn in the side of GOP leadership.

But last year she emerged as a close ally of McCarthy, supporting his bid for the Speakership and urging against any internal challenge  a stark difference from many of her colleagues in the Freedom Caucus, whose demands of McCarthy and support for other members led to the historic 15-ballot election.

Greenes swipe at the Freedom Caucus came one day after a coalition of conservatives  some of whom are members of the conservative group  said they would withhold support from a procedural vote on legislation to fund the Pentagon over demands on spending, which led GOP leadership in the House to punt the vote.

Greene on Thursday suggested in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, that she would not support the spending bill because it includes funding for Ukraine, which she opposes. But the congresswoman nonetheless expresses frustration with her conservative colleagues following a closed-door GOP conference meeting.

A lot of my colleagues that are saying those things werent even in that room, so they werent there to hear any of the conversation nor raise their concerns, Greene said after emerging from the meeting. They cant stand out and hold press conferences but not attend our conference meetings and expect to work things out.

Asked if she is frustrated with their participation on the appropriations process, Greene said she was no longer a member of the burn-it-all-down caucus.

In July, after news broke of Greenes ouster from the Freedom Caucus, the congresswoman called the group the drama club.

Im not really concerned about it, Greene said of the news.

I dont have time for the drama club, she added at the time.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Anthony L. Irons, as Corey Baker and Alexis J. Roston, as Regina Baker, left, watch as Sydney Charles, as Patricia Griffith hugs Ronald L. Conner, as Gerald Griffith, right, during a preview of Welcome to Matteson, at Northwestern Universitys Wirtz Center in Streeterville on Sept. 5, 2023. (Trent Sprague/Chicago Tribune)

Its easy to get so wrapped up in the humor and seriousness of Congo Square Theatres latest play, Welcome to Matteson, that one can miss the plot twist in the production. One that will really make one think. Theres a plot twist in Den Theatres A Hit Dog Will Holler as well. Both works are from the mind of Inda Craig-Galvan, a native of the Jeffery Manor neighborhood.

Where the former play examines issues of housing injustice, the not in my backyard mentality and classism, the latter looks at the relationship between two Black women in the current political/pandemic landscape of activism and social media influencers. Issues of mental health, racism, fear, authenticity and survival as a Black woman in America exist in A Hit Dog Will Holler. Meanwhile, Welcome to Matteson, is based on the south suburban locale and what happened when Cabrini-Green came down and its residents were relocated to the predominantly Black village.

Advertisement

And it all started thanks to one of Craig-Galvans best friends, whose family lived in Matteson when they were in college. Her friend bought a home in the nearby village of Park Forest, and Craig-Galvan and her husband followed suit.

We bought a house in Park Forest in the early 2000s, Craig-Galvan said. Our goal was to eventually sell that house and buy a house either in Homewood or Matteson. But things happened, including the bubble bursting in the housing market. So we ended up moving to Los Angeles.

Advertisement

Craig-Galvan recalls really loving the area, a small community that wanted integration and had resources for residents, and where people took care of and cared for where they lived. I was close enough to the city to do all the fun Chicago things and far enough away that I felt like I was in a little town, she said. The first draft of Welcome to Matteson was born the last year Craig-Galvan was at the University of Southern California School of Dramatic Arts Dramatic Writing Master of Fine Arts program.

Most of my plays are set in Chicago because thats where Im from, Craig-Galvan said. It just happened to be this confluence of events that I have two productions in Chicago about plays that take place in Chicago at the same time.

We talk with Craig-Galvan about her works on and offstage, her career and Black theater in Chicago. The following conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

Inda Craig-Galvan, a native South Sider, is premiering two different plays in the city this September: 'A Hit Dog Will Holler' (Artemisia Theatre) and 'Welcome To Matteson' (Congo Square Theatre). (Julian Juaquin)

Q: This play is based in Matteson, but will people get the reference when it plays around the country? Is Matteson any town in America?

A: I try to write really specific stories, stories that are affecting people I know or people Ive been. And the more specific it is, somehow the more universal because its themes that everybodys going through, and housing inequity has been happening everywhere. This very specific thing of relocating residents from Cabrini-Green to the south suburbs is specific to us, but there is still the idea of this reverse gentrification and people holding on very tightly to what their ideas of home and ownership are, and with all of the people unionizing and all the strikes happening, people realizing that no matter how much control you think you have in your own situation, there are people who make way more money off your labor and off your situation. So much so everybody is waking up and realizing we have got to change things because we arent controlling things. A lot of it is about money.

Q: You have two very different stories looking at aspects of our society, who are the audiences for the work?

A: I think theres something that speaks to everybody ... the look what happens when you do this. I write primarily for Black audiences. I write what I want to see. So (Welcome to Matteson) is speaking to the Patricias and the Geralds, the bougie folks who are judging other people or dismissing other people. Its to the Reginas and the Coreys who are still happy. They are the most uplifting people in this play, because they do not necessarily accept their fate, or their lot in life. But they find joy despite what everyone else thinks of them and whatever they have to go through, theyre still going to find a way to be happy and to love each other. So I think theres a little something for everybody and I try not to blame or call anybody the bad guy, except Mayor Daley (laughs).

With A Hit Dog Will Holler theres a similar element of judgment. And its when they hit this heightened emotion, thats when that monster rears its ugly head and becomes real. Again, two very different people but theyre both Black, both living through the same time, living through it in very similar ways and having to deal with very similar trauma. And it affects all of us, unfortunately.

Advertisement

Q: Without giving away the endings, can you explain what the plot twists are signifying?

A: People who have no control. These people are living in a place, behaving the ways that they think are right or helpful or beneficial to them, but theyre struggling, they are challenged, theyre loving, theyre not so loving. But ultimately, everything is controlled by an outside force. That is our reality. We still have to be kind to one another, respectful and recognize that were all in this together no matter what our differences may be. We all have to be good to one another despite our lack of control.

Q: The Tribunes Chris Jones recently wrote an article that looked at the theater scene in Chicago, do you have any thoughts about the landscape now?

A: There was one sentence that says there are success stories in theaters, bucking the trend. But we didnt go into that in the article. We didnt talk about eta or Congo Square Theatre. There was an article in American Theatre by Michael Bobbitt over two years ago, where he says boards (of directors) are broken. Do you have artists on your boards? Do you have people of color on your boards? Because boards have a lot of input. Its not the problem that Black people dont want to go see theater. We want to see ourselves and we want to see shows that speak to us.  Its not the location thats the problem. Its the content thats on the stages.

Its also where the money is going. One thing that article said that I absolutely agree with was that you can still do theater without a brand new, big expensive building, but you cant do it without artists. If artists dont feel valued, if the new work that artists are creating isnt valued and supported and given the resources and given all the support you would give a Shakespeare play, then those artists, where are they going to go? The artist isnt the middleman, the artist is the first person and if youre not dedicated to developing new work and then programming that new work, then youre not going to have new exciting things for an audience to see.

A lot of theaters were doing a lot of development during the pandemic, and before, but if youre not programming these plays that youre doing readings of, then whats the message youre sending to the artists? I dont know what the answer is because its happening everywhere, all across the country  theaters are canceling or shutting down, theyre limiting their seasons. But obviously people are going out, people are shelling out money for Beyonce, for Taylor Swift. People are going on vacation. People still spend money, but if youre not showing them something that they want to come see, then its not necessarily about the tickets.

Advertisement

Q: Did you always want to be a playwright? You also write for ABCs Will Trent show.

A: Im excited to come back for a second season. We were renewed for a second season. We are in the middle of a labor movement right now, but we will be back. I was leery about working on another cop show because I didnt want to write characters that were propaganda. This show came my way, I read the pilot and I loved it. I loved that this book series where most of the characters are white would be re-imagined for the TV series where we have so many people of color, who are authentically themselves. We have this Puerto Rican man in the lead, Ramon Rodriguez, whose character Will Trent is just learning about his own background. So we will get to delve into that more; his character is an orphan, a couple of the characters are, and dealing with what that meant, what happened after they got out of the system? What tools or resources were they given or not? How they continue to cope with life, those orphans who never got adopted, who never got a permanent home. And he also has dyslexia. Theres a lot of real specific things were dealing with in this show, its grounded and I love it.

I wanted to be an actor initially. I was acting in Chicago. A lot of times when I would work on new plays, I would have all these questions and notes. I think it was the dramatist in me trying to get out and trying to do some dramaturgy because I had stories in me that I figured out different ways to tell them than what was happening on the page. Then I started taking classes at Second City and started performing and writing sketch comedy. I thought that I only had about a five-minute sketch in me at most. But once I moved to Los Angeles, I still wanted to write. I didnt have my sketch writing partner back in Chicago anymore. I thought how can I still express myself and create work that excites me and feels personal to me? Maybe I should just be a writer. So actor, then sketch comedy writer/performer and then playwright was the path, and then TV.

Now, Im in a place where Im on a show that I love, where I get to be real creative, pitch ideas and write the way that I write  my showrunners are great at saying yes and genuinely wanting everyones point of view in the room to be on that page. And now Im developing shows myself, so I get to not have to compromise art in order to work in TV and thats a luxury and probably the best move that Ive made with getting away from things that Im doing just for money and doing things that feel like art to me.

A Hit Dog Will Holler runs through Sept. 17 at the Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee; tickets are $25 at thedentheatre.com. Welcome to Matteson runs through Oct. 1 at Abbott Hall at Northwestern University Chicago Campus, 710 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive; tickets are $45 at congosquaretheatre.org

drockett@chicagotribune.com
DENVER (KDVR)  Starting Oct. 1, anyone purchasing a firearm in Colorado must wait three days in most circumstances before they can receive it.

This is when House Bill 23-1219, which was passed in April and signed into law by Gov. Jared Polis , goes into effect.

Anyone who violates the law may face a fine of up to $500 for the first offense, and a fine between $500 and $5,000 for any further violations.

Gun waiting period: A few exceptions

There are two situations in which this law does not apply. For one, there is no waiting period when the gun is an antique firearm or a curio or relic.

Failing to obey Colorados new roundabout law could cost you $70

Also, people in the armed forces being deployed in the next 30 days can sell their guns to family members, spouses or people with whom they share close family-like bonds without waiting three days.

Lawsuit filed, withdrawn over gun waiting period

In April, the pro-gun organization Rocky Mountain Gun Owners filed a lawsuit against Polis regarding the new law. The lawsuit argued the waiting period violates the Second Amendment.

That lawsuit was voluntarily dismissed without prejudice in August, meaning the group willingly withdrew it and can file it again at a later time.

RMGO also sued Polis over a separate law that raised the minimum age to buy guns to 21.

That law went into effect on Aug. 7. However, that same day, a judge issued an order that stopped the state from enforcing it until the case is heard in court.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com.
Pro-gun groups that oppose firearm restrictions say they have no problem with Hunter Biden 's indictment on Thursday, on charges stemming from his purchase of a pistol during a period when he has admitted to using drugs.

They may not like the laws. But it's only fair, they say, that the president's son get punished just like anyone else.

Gun Owners of America opposes all gun control, but so long as this President continues to use every tool at his disposal to harass and criminalize guns, gun owners and gun dealers, his son should be receiving the same treatment and scrutiny as all of us, Erich Pratt, senior vice president of the organization, said in a statement on Thursday.



The statement from Gun Owners of America, one of the largest gun rights groups in the country, suggests how firearm advocates will be threading a needle when discussing the indictment against the presidents son  whom conservatives have been targeting in political attacks in the run-up to the 2024 election. The NRA issued a similar line on how Hunter Biden should be treated.

Laws should be applied equally against all criminals, NRA spokesperson Billy McLaughlin told POLITICO in a brief statement.

Hunter Biden was indicted Thursday on three gun-related charges, which stem from his ownership of a pistol during a time when he openly admitted that he used crack cocaine. His lawyers have previously said that they would use the Second Amendment as a defense against such charges.

During his time as president, Joe Biden has shepherded through a bipartisan gun deal that put moderate restrictions on firearms, including funding for state-level red flag laws. And he has continued to openly advocate for more legislation to restrict guns, such as banning assault weapons and ratcheting up background checks.

Betsy Woodruff Swan contributed to this report.
Weather over Central and North Texas is unstable enough to produce more rain throughout the day Thursday with frequent lightning and even some hail, according to the National Weather Service Fort Worth office.

Sufficient elevated instability is present for more robust cells to produce frequent lightning and perhaps some small hail through the morning, as well as brief heavy rainfall, meteorologist Matt Stalley wrote on the NWS website.

Rain will continue through the morning and into the afternoon with accumulations around a quarter to a half inch possible.

The rain has been a pleasant transition for Fort Worth from a scorcher of a summer that recorded more than 25 days with temperatures at or above 105 degrees. The high for Thursday is a relatively cool 79 degrees.

Many wonder if this rain will finally reverse drought conditions in parched North Texas. But state officials do not see an end to dry conditions until December at the earliest.

More rain is expected Friday and Saturday with highs in the mid 80s. Thunderstorms are in the forecast for Friday night.

There is a small chance for stronger storms across our southern Central Texas counties beginning late this morning due to the presence of greater instability, and some small hail and strong wind gusts could accompany thunderstorms there heading into the afternoon time frame, Stalley wrote.
A Hamilton County judge said Thursday that the state cant block the city of Cincinnati from regulating guns, finding that an Ohio law violates the citys home rule authority.

A Hamilton County judge said Thursday that the state cant block the city of Cincinnati from regulating guns, finding that an Ohio law violates the citys home rule authority.

In an entry filed Thursday granting the citys request for a preliminary injunction, Hamilton County Common Pleas Judge Jennifer Branch said the state constitutions home rule amendment gives local governments the freedom to enact laws that address the unique circumstances they face.

While state law may regulate firearms in several areas, there are several meaningful gaps within which municipalities may regulate firearms, Branch said, provided they do not conflict with general laws.

Dominic Binkley, a spokesman for the Ohio Attorney General's Office, told The Enquirer: "We disagree with the judge's ruling, and we plan to appeal."

Suit was filed in January

The city sued the state in January, seeking a preliminary injunction to stop the state from enforcing a preemption law that bars municipalities from imposing restrictions on a persons ability to own, possess, buy, sell, transport or store any gun or part of a gun.

More: Should Ohio cities be able to pass gun laws? Cincinnati sues state over restrictions

The law has been amended in recent years. One recent change allows residents to sue a city over gun regulations. The city of Cincinnati has already faced lawsuits based on the law.

Two ordinances were enacted this year

City officials want to be able to enforce two ordinances that were enacted this year. The first addresses the safe storage of guns to keep them away from children. The second ordinance bars people convicted of domestic violence or who are subject to a protection order from possessing firearms.

Other cities in Ohio and across the country have battled for the authority to regulate firearms. In November 2022, a Franklin County judge sided with the city of Columbus by ruling Ohio's preemption law unconstitutional, setting off a legal battle. Last month, a state appeals court overturned that judge's decision.

The ordinances, officials have said, were intended to give law enforcement more options to address gun violence. The charges would be misdemeanors, punishable by up to one year in jail.

Mayor Aftab Pureval says state usurped power of local elected officials

At a news conference Thursday, Mayor Aftab Pureval said state lawmakers "who have nothing to do with the city and our unique challenges" had passed a law that usurped the power of local elected officials.

The ultimate goal, Pureval said, is to enact "common sense gun laws that protect our citizens."

"The police want to be empowered to do that and our local elected officials want that, as well," he said.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Judge: State can't block city of Cincinnati gun ordinances
WASHINGTON  With the filing deadline in New Hampshire fast-approaching and national Democrats weighing penalties that would effectively keep President Joe Biden off the state's primary ballot, an ad hoc group of his backers are rallying support for a write-in effort to prevent him from losing the contest.

The loosely organized group includes respected former party officials who are preparing to step in with the Democratic National Committee declining, so far, to back down from a pledge to punish presidential candidates who campaign in states that buck the party's primary order.

Campaigning is defined, in the Biden-backed rules that were formally adopted by the DNC earlier this year, as appearing on the ballot in states that jump the line. New Hampshire has traditionally had the first presidential primary, and in keeping with state law, it is expected break the Democratic Party's rules and do so again.

With the prospect of a fringe candidate such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., winning New Hampshire, Democrats in the state have begun plotting an independent effort to support Biden.

At a meeting of Manchester Democrats last weekend, former New Hampshire party chair Kathy Sullivan said she told attendees, "It's important that we all show up and write in Joe Biden's name if his name is not on the ballot."

Then-Democratic presidential hopeful former Vice President Joe Biden is seen on screens in the spin room during the eighth Democratic primary debate of the 2020 presidential campaign season co-hosted by ABC News, WMUR-TV and Apple News at St. Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire on February 07, 2020.

All but one of the attendees, who was upset that Biden demoted New Hampshire, agreed with her, Sullivan said.

The loose effort has the support of Colin Van Ostern, a former member of the New Hampshire Executive Council, and Jim Demers, who co-chaired former President Barack Obama's campaigns in New Hampshire.

Demers said that it has not reached the point of an official effort, and Democrats who are involved in the conversations are waiting for the filing deadline to pass to begin organizing in earnest.

"But there are a lot of us who strongly support President Biden, we support his agenda, and we want to make sure that he gets reelected, so we don't plan to vote for anybody in our primary except for him," Demers said.

New Hampshire expected to go first

State law requires New Hampshire to hold the first presidential primary. Its GOP-run legislature would not change the statute to accommodate Biden's effort to elevate states with more diverse electorates.

New Hampshire Democrats could lose many of their delegates to the 2024 national convention if the state holds its contest ahead of Biden's hand-picked primary calendar. DNC rules also prevent candidates who participate in rouge contests from winning of any of the state's delegates, which would be consequential if Biden faced stiff competition for the nomination and needed the state's support.

Although the state has not announced the date of its primary yet, its secretary of state has indicated the election will likely take place on Jan. 23. That would put the contest in front of South Carolina, which Biden picked to go first, and almost two weeks earlier than the date that national Democrats decided on.

The DNC directed South Carolina to have its primary on Feb. 3 and New Hampshire and Nevada to hold their contests on Feb. 6.

Biden has adamantly supported the calendar, which New Hampshire Democrats fought hard to repeal. But neither the president nor his campaign have said whether he will break the party's rules as they are written to appear on New Hampshire's ballot.

Rules and Bylaws Committee members of the DNC recommitted to the calendar at a meeting in Washington, D.C. on Thursday and gave New Hampshire until Oct. 14 to come into compliance. The committee has avoided saying whether it will enforce the penalties against New Hampshire by giving the state repeated waivers, and did so again at the September gathering.

James Roosevelt Jr., who co-chairs the committee, told USA TODAY after the meeting that the panel hopes to "find a resolution" by the time the full DNC meets in St. Louis in early October.

The party is running out of time to make a decision. New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan on Wednesday announced a window of Oct. 11-27 for candidates in both major political parties' primaries to file their paperwork to appear on the ballot.

Democrats in the state say they are moving on, regardless of what the DNC winds up deciding.

"There's going to be a drop dead date," Sullivan said. "If they kick the can down the road... too far, it will be a done deal. Biden won't be on the ballot."

Democrats shift their strategy

New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley said he's putting his focus in 2024 on winning the governor's race, with longtime GOP. Gov. Chris Sununu not running for reelection; winning the majority in the state legislature; holding on to the state's contested congressional seats; and getting Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris reelected.

The state party will not be involved in a write-in effort, he said. "But there's no reason to doubt that the president's not going to do very well."

"People are just going to organize their neighborhoods. It is not going to be you know, some multi-million dollar effort, it's going to be a real grassroots New Hampshire style operation," he said. "We have a very robust grassroots in New Hampshire. And they seem to be organizing themselves individually, and perhaps at some point, collectively."

Biden won New Hampshire in the 2020 general election, and he is up 53 points in his party's 2024 primary. He had 65% support of Democrats' support in New Hampshire in an August poll conducted by Emerson College to Kennedy's 12% and Marianne Williamson's 4%.

DNC Rules and Bylaws panel member Joanne Dowdell, who has been pressing New Hampshire's case before the committee, cautioned Democrats exploring a write-in campaign to consider a scenario in which Biden still loses the state's primary.

"The concern I have is if that effort is unsuccessful," she said. "How would the campaign respond if it was not a favorable result?"

A write-in campaign would not be easy. But veteran Democratic activists in New Hampshire say its possible.

"It would be certainly historic for a presidential candidate to win a write-in effort. But I do believe that there's enough support in New Hampshire for President Biden and that if there were that effort, I think he could win it," Demers said. "I don't think I would be involved in an organized effort if I felt that it was something that wasn't doable."

Sullivan said New Hampshire Democrats will vote anyway, and with no other acceptable candidates on the ballot, they will hopefully write in Biden's name.

"It's a heavy lift, with...little if any resources to get out and talk to people about this, to educate people so that they know that when they go to vote for Joe Biden they have to write his name in," she said. "So it's a lift," Sullivan acknowledged. "But I think it can be done."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: N.H. primary calendar fight pushes Biden supporters to write-in effort
New Hampshire and the Democratic National Committee are in a battle over the state's refusal to give up its status as the first state to hold a presidential primary next year, and the gambit may cost the state President Biden's appearance on the state's ballot and a number of New Hampshire delegates at the party's 2024 presidential nominating convention.

The DNC is upending the 2024 presidential nominating process by making South Carolina the first primary state, knocking New Hampshire out of its coveted position. But New Hampshire has so far refused to concede the spot, breezing by a Sept. 1 deadline the DNC had set for New Hampshire to give up its position.

On Thursday, the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee extended the deadline for New Hampshire to come into compliance to Oct. 14, reserving its threat of sanctions that would remove some of the state's delegates at the Democratic National Convention next year if it doesn't comply with the national party's primary calendar changes. At this point, the committee says it has only received a plan from New Hampshire that does not include a primary date.

If the New Hampshire primary is held ahead of South Carolina, Mr. Biden and his campaign may omit his name from the ballot in New Hampshire, in protest of its failure to comply with party rules. Mr. Biden, whose successful pursuit of the 2020 nomination was launched by South Carolina's support, initially proposed that the state go first in the Democrats' primary process.

New Hampshire Democrats argue they lack the authority to move the primary because New Hampshire law requires the state's primary to be set at least a week before any other nominating contest. To comply, a reversal of the 1975 law would have to pass a Republican-led majority in the Legislature. While just 43% of Democrats support the "first in the nation" law, a majority of Republicans and independents in the state support the law, according to a University of New Hampshire poll. A DNC calendar change has long been floated, and New Hampshire hasn't taken steps to change its law.

"There's no way the state of New Hampshire could change its law in time for the primary," said Raymond Buckley, New Hampshire State Democratic Party chairman.

New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan has not set a date for the primary but plans to adhere to the first-in-the-nation rule.

"We're still watching other states to see what they do in terms of their timing," Scanlan said.

The absence of the current president and the party's presumptive nominee from the New Hampshire ballot could leave space for a dark-horse challenger to win the first state to cast ballots in the Democratic nominating process, even though primary observers doubt the president's dominance is in real jeopardy.

If Mr. Biden is not on the New Hampshire ballot, the candidate most likely to benefit is Robert F. Kennedy Jr. But Kennedy is still a long shot. Turnout in non-competitive presidential primaries, when an incumbent is running, is typically low. Granite State polling shows Democrats in New Hampshire will likely hand Mr. Biden a win as a write-in candidate, even as the president's approval ratings remain low.

"Without doubt, [Mr. Biden] will be successful in the New Hampshire primary," said Buckley.

It wouldn't be the first time the eventual Democratic nominee wasn't on a primary ballot and went on to win the state in a general election. In 2008, Barack Obama and John Edwards pulled their names off the Michigan ballot after the state disobeyed the DNC and moved its primary to an earlier date. As a result, Michigan was only awarded half of its delegates. Hillary Clinton, who kept her name on the ballot, won the primary in Michigan that year, although Obama went on to win the Democratic nomination and ultimately the presidency.

Supporters of the DNC calendar overhaul say the 2024 Democratic calendar is more representative of the diversity that makes up the modern party. New Hampshire is nearly 93% White, according to the Census Bureau. But non-Whites accounted for 4 in 10 Democratic and Democratic-leaning voters in 2020, according to Pew.

Last year, 16 states and Puerto Rico made their pitches to the committee for why they should be among the first states in the lineup based on diversity, competitiveness, and feasibility.

Unlike Iowa, New Hampshire remained in the early lineup when the DNC approved Biden's proposed calendar in February. Under the schedule, New Hampshire and Nevada would host primaries on Feb. 6, three days after the South Carolina primary. Because New Hampshire still plans to hold its primary earlier, it's unlikely there will be a second primary on Feb. 6.

Buckley is prepared to face the consequences, but adds, "What we don't want is any sanction to have an impact in our ability to carry the state in November of '24."

Hunter Biden charged with lying about using illegal drugs while buying gun

Hunter Biden indicted on federal gun-related charges

Why Trump, co-defendants won't all be tried together in Georgia election subversion case
A group of taxpayers in Boises Harris Ranch community has stepped up its fight against a special taxing district it says is unlawful and unfair.

The group, the Harris Ranch CID Taxpayers Association, appealed the Idaho Supreme Court on Sept. 6 after an Ada County judge ruled against it in April.

The legal battle centers on an October 2021 approval of $5 million in bonds, $10 million in extra property taxes and $7 million in additional payments to the developer of Harris Ranch, a master-planned community in the Barber Valley. The $22 million was approved by the board of the taxing district, which at the time was made up of Boise City Council members Elaine Clegg, TJ Thomson and Holli Woodings.

The board comprises council members Patrick Bageant, Latonia Haney Keith and Meredith Stead.





Homeowners within the taxing district, the Harris Ranch Community Infrastructure District, pay the taxes for infrastructure improvements the developer installs such as roads, parks and roundabouts.

Two of those homeowners, Larry Crowley and Bill Doyle, argue that the district is unlawful and should be scrapped. Crowley and Doyle serve as the associations president and vice president, respectively.

An uncommon tool

This is the first time anyone has brought a community infrastructure district to the Idaho Supreme Court.

Community infrastructure districts, or CIDs, are still a relatively new and unused tool for development. The Idaho Legislature legalized them in 2008 to help growth pay for itself through higher taxes on those who live within district boundaries.

With homeowners in these districts paying more for local infrastructure improvements, it lessens the load on taxpayers outside the district. For instance, instead of taxpayers in the Bench or West Boise paying higher taxes on new sewers for Harris Ranch, more of this burden is shifted to the people actually using the new developments.

But homeowners within the Harris Ranch CID boundaries say they pay 40% higher taxes than those outside the district despite the district map cutting out several areas of the neighborhood. (40%) is pretty much the average for everybody in the CID, Crowley told the Idaho Statesman by phone.

The president of Barber Valley Development, Doug Fowler, previously said the districts map was drawn without the existing homes because the developers believed the owners would reject a tax increase, according to prior Statesman reporting.

A map shows the Harris Ranch Community Infrastructure District highlighted in yellow.

The money gathered from the CID has helped pay for the Harris Ranch Fire Station, Boise Greenbelt improvements, a sediment basin, the Warm Springs Avenue Bypass and the roundabout on East Park Center Boulevard.

As the legal battle unfolds, Fowler said it has affected development on the town center and Alta Harris Park.

The litigation has definitely caused the development to pause in a couple of areas, Fowler told the Statesman by phone.

Fowler said the costs to fight the lawsuit will add to the homeowners payments.

We believe the Supreme Court will uphold the legislation that was passed some 15 years ago, Fowler said.

Harris Ranch was the first community to test this new system, creating the CID in 2010 with only three votes cast, two of them from the businesses that sought the law: Barber Valley Development and Harris Family Limited Partnership. The law granted votes to businesses that own land in a proposed district. The third vote came from a farmhand.

Since then, Idaho has gained two more CIDs for the Avimor and Spring Valley communities. Spring Valley is now known as Valnova.

Judicial review denied

Crowley, Doyle and the association first took the taxing district, its board and Harris Family Limited Partnership to court in 2022. They alleged in their petition for judicial review that the district is flawed because of how it was formed, the noncontiguity of its map, and the requirement that only taxpayers in the district pay taxes for features that are also used by those outside the district.

The taxpayers had asked the court to find that the October 2021 actions approved by the CID board were and are unlawful, invalid and void, according to prior Statesman reporting.

Crowley said the two votes from the developers and one from a farmhand should be disqualified and shouldnt count under Idaho law.





Despite this, Ada County 4th District Judge Nancy Baskin shot down one of their main arguments early on: how the district was formed.

The development agreement, the election, all of those events are not part of this petition for judicial review, Baskin said during a May 2022 hearing.

Baskin argued that the taxpayers could challenge the CIDs decisions within a 60-day period allowed by law, but not the years-earlier formation of the district.

Harris Ranch is beginning a final phase of development in East Boise. How the latest phases of the community are taxed has become a point of contention for homeowners.

A new question

Crowley, in an email, said Baskin shut down many of the associations claims based on procedural grounds rather than the merits of the claims. He said Baskin acknowledged that many of the associations issues were close calls that had never been litigated before.

According to Crowley, the association needs to win a single challenge to invalidate most, if not all, of the $22 million approved by the CID Board in October 2021.

Should growth pay for itself? Why tax district claiming to do that angers some Boiseans

Harris Ranch taxpayers take their fight against special tax district to new battlefield

Homeowners want special Boise tax district abolished. Judge casts doubt on key argument

Boise homeowners went to court to try to void a tax district. See what a judge decided
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  On Thursday, students with Rancho High Schools mariachi band and ballet folkloric will kick start the busy Mexican Independence Day holiday, also known as El Grito weekend at Harry Reid International Airport.

Hispanic Heritage Month: Las Vegas elementary school celebrates colorful cultures, traditions

From Thursday to Monday, officials at the airport are prepared to welcome 56 commercial flights that will fly directly between Mexico and Las Vegas during the busy weekend.

Mexico historically ranks as the second largest source of international visitors to Las Vegas and the airport typically sees a spike in passenger activity associated with Mexican Independence Day.

Below are several events taking place during the busy holiday weekend and throughout the month of September.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
Coincidentally, my last two visits to Rogers Park have shared an apocalyptic theme. In August, I saw Oppenheimer at The New 400 during the historic cinemas penultimate weekend of operation. Last Sunday, I was back in the North Side neighborhood for Lifeline Theatres Cats Cradle, an adaptation of Kurt Vonneguts satirical 1963 novel about a fictional co-creator of the atomic bomb who later destroys the world through an invention called ice-nine. Move over, brooding Cillian Murphy; its time for an eccentric physicist clad in mushroom-cloud pajama pants to take center stage.

Directed by Lifeline ensemble member Heather Currie, this cast commits to the plays dark humor with often hilarious results. However, as a Vonnegut novice, I struggled to connect with his bizarre style of storytelling. Certainly, some of the plays themes are relevant today  especially the questions it raises about ethics and science  but the critiques of American exceptionalism and blind patriotism dont offer many new ideas for modern audiences. I imagine this adaptation by ensemble member John Hildreth may have landed differently in 2002, when Lifeline first staged it about six months after the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan, but the Cold War-era satire feels dated now.

Advertisement

Plot-wise, theres a lot going on in Cats Cradle. The narrator (Tony Bozzuto), who introduces himself as Jonah but is usually called the freelance writer, is working on a book about the end of the world. Specifically, he wants to write about the activities that prominent Americans were doing on the day when the U.S. detonated the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan. This brings him into contact with family members and colleagues of Felix Hoenikker, the late physicist who appears via flashbacks in a scene-stealing performance by Patrick Blashill.

Later, another writing assignment brings the narrator to San Lorenzo, a fictional Caribbean island with an aging dictator and a peculiar religion founded by a charismatic leader, Bokonon (Johnard Washington). Here, the narrator once again crosses paths with Hoenikkers quirky adult children: Franklin (Vic Kuligoski), Angela (Jocelyn Maher) and Newt (Shea Lee). Through a strange course of events, the narrator becomes the new president of San Lorenzo and must navigate the existential threat posed by ice-nine, Hoenikkers invention that instantly turns liquid water into ice.

Advertisement

These broad strokes dont cover some of the funniest and sharply satirical characters, such as Mr. and Mrs. Crosby (Blashill and Mandy Walsh), an exaggeratedly Midwestern couple that befriends the narrator on the plane to San Lorenzo. Always delighted to meet a fellow Hoosier, Mrs. Crosby insists that the bemused narrator call her mom. Wearing loudly colored, matching outfits (costumes by Aly Amidei) and blithely sipping cocktails as they discuss the brutal conditions under which the islanders live, the Crosbys are the very picture of callous American tourists.

Tony Bozzuto, Shea Lee, Vic Kuligoski and Jocelyn Maher in "Cats Cradle" at Lifeline Theatre. (Jackie Jasperson/HANDOUT)

Also on the plane is Mr. Minton (Maher), who was recently fired from the State Department for insufficient enthusiasm about American exceptionalism and is on his way to a soft exile as the new U.S. ambassador to San Lorenzo. He and Mrs. Minton (Shelby Lynn Bias), a professional indexer of books, page through a guidebook to the island nation. In a sendup of niche expertise and academic snobbery, Mrs. Minton psychoanalyzes the books author through the index that he dared to write himself  a major faux pas in her field.

The scenes about the fictional religion of Bokononism are amusing if a bit cringeworthy in the way they depict the native islanders devotion to a cultlike prophet. (In fairness, the white American narrator also converts upon arrival to the island.) With their irreverence toward a seemingly distant creator, the Bokononists have similar energy to the Ugandan characters who sing Hasa Diga Eebowai in The Book of Mormon. Decked out in goofy headpieces such as a lampshade and a traffic cone, the congregants follow Bokonon in singing jaunty calypsos with incongruously sardonic lyrics. At one point, the audience is encouraged to sing along to Busy, busy, busy, a simple tune that Bokononists sing when they contemplate lifes complications and unpredictability.

Patrick Blashill, Tony Bozzuto, Mandy Walsh, Jocelyn Maher and Shelby Lynn Bias in "Cats Cradle" at Lifeline Theatre. (Jackie Jasperson/HANDOUT)

While this offbeat world-building is entertaining, I was left uncertain of why Cats Cradle is being revived in 2023. Sure, there are prescient warnings about the dangers of scientific progress; one character says that everything scientists work on will end up being used as a weapon one day. And Ambassador Mintons speech critiquing the use of military martyrs as props for jingoistic patriotism still rings true, even if its a point that has been made for decades now. However, while some individual themes are thought-provoking and the performances are fun, the whole package doesnt make up more than the sum of its parts.

Theater Loop Weekly Get the latest news and reviews from America's hottest theater city, delivered to your mailbox weekly. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy >

Emily McClanathan is a freelance critic.

Review: Cats Cradle (2.5 stars)

When: Through Oct. 22

Where: Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.

Advertisement

Running time: 2 hours, 15 minutes

Tickets: $45 at 773-761-4477 or lifelinetheatre.com

Sign up for the Theater Loop newsletter: Coming soon, the Chicago Tribune will launch a new weekly newsletter with the latest news and reviews from Americas hottest theater city. Theater critic Chris Jones will share a behind-the-curtain look at what you need to know about Chicagos theater scene.
(Bloomberg) -- Heineken NV, the worlds second-largest beer producer, will build a 430 million ($457 million) brewery in Mexicos Yucatan state as the government steps up efforts to attract investment to the south of the country.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The brewery  which is expected to open in 2026 and will manufacture brands Tecate, Dos Equis, Indio, Bohemia, Amstel Ultra, and Sol  will reuse water through cutting-edge treatment systems and take advantage of the regions transport connectivity, Heineken said in a statement on Thursday. The new brewery will also operate with minimal waste and utilize renewable energy sources through advanced processes, equipment, and technology, the statement said.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who is nearing the end of his six-year term, has sought to attract business to Mexicos less-developed southern states to prevent a concentration in central and northern parts of the country. Economy Minister Raquel Buenrostro has led the push, emphasizing that, unlike the north, the southern region has good water supplies and ample availability of clean energy. But its a tough sell for some companies that prefer to build in the north for easy access to the US market.

Last year, AMLO, as the president is known, called on producers to stop making beer in the north of the country amid a severe drought that hit Monterrey, the countrys industrial heartland. In 2020, AMLO held a public referendum about a planned $1.5 billion Constellation Brands Inc. brewery in Mexicali which was already half finished. About 76% of those who participated rejected the new plant.

Heinekens announcement was made in conjunction with Buenrostro and Yucatan governor Mauricio Vila Dosal. The new brewery in Kanasin, Yucatan, will be Heinekens eighth in Mexico and will create 2,000 direct and indirect jobs. The company also has a malting plant in the country.

Read More: Real Estate Market Booms in Mexicos Least-Violent State

The announcement also comes after Heineken minority shareholder Fomento Economico Mexicano SA de CV, or Femsa, decided to divest its stake in the global brewer.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has criticised the West for slow arms deliveries to Ukraine and called on the United Kingdom to send more military aid to the Ukrainian Armed Forces without delay.

Source: Johnson for The Spectator, reported by European Pravda

Quote from Johnson: "There is only one thing they want from us, and that is the weaponry to finish the job  and so I simply do not understand why we keep dragging our feet. Why are we always so slow? How can we look these men in the eye, and explain the delay? Throughout this war we have underestimated the Ukrainians and overestimated Putin, and we are doing the same today."

Details: Johnson also criticised the US for not providing Kyiv with ATACMS missiles.

"President Zelenskyy told me that he needs just 200 more sophisticated ballistic systems such as ATACMs, and the US has thousands in store. Why keep them on ice? What other purpose could they possibly serve that would better guarantee the long-term security of the West, including the United States?" the politician noted.

Details: Johnson noted that some in Washington have said that the US should stick to a "China First" strategy and keep ATACMS in reserve in case they have to be sent to defend Taiwan.

In Johnsons opinion, the best way to deter an attack on Taiwan is to make sure the Ukrainians win, and to do so as soon as possible.

He also stressed that Ukraine needs more missile systems, such as the British Storm Shadow, which has proven to be extremely valuable.

Quote from Johnson: "That is why Putin will lose and Ukraine will eventually win; and since that is what must happen, and since that is what is going to happen, can we not, in the name of all that is holy, give the Ukrainians now the military assistance they need to bring matters to the speediest possible conclusion so that fewer human beings are thrown into the charnel-house of this pointless conflict? I have asked it before, and I ask it again: what the hell are we waiting for?"

Background:

It was reported earlier that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hopes to convince his American counterpart Joe Biden to approve the decision to transfer long-range ATACMS systems to the Ukrainian military in the near future so that Ukraine can receive them this autumn.

Reuters reported that the Biden administration was close to approving the delivery of longer-range missiles with cluster munitions to Ukraine.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
The amount of time it takes to start experiencing COVID-19 symptoms if you're infected is shrinking.

The amount of time it takes to start experiencing COVID-19 symptoms if you're infected is shrinking.

Early in the pandemic, an exposure to COVID-19 meant waiting anxiously for many days to see if you were infected. Now, the window is getting smaller and smaller.

In a 2022 review published in the journal JAMA Network Open, researchers analyzed 141 studies to determine how COVID-19s incubation period  the time from when you get infected to when you start showing symptoms  has changed since March 2020.

The review, which was conducted by scientists in Beijing, found that with every new variant, COVID-19s incubation time has decreased significantly. Omicron had the shortest time between infection and symptoms. (EG.5, the subvariant that is currently the most dominant COVID-19 strain in the U.S., is a descendant of omicron.)

The incubation periods of COVID-19 caused by the Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Omicron variants were 5.00, 4.50, 4.41, and 3.42 days, respectively, the 2022 review stated.

Its worth noting that the studies analyzed in the review largely relied on people recalling their date of infection and the date symptoms started from memory, so there is room for error if study participants misremembered.

Additionally, an April 2023 study concluded that incubation times for omicron variants were shorter than that of delta variants. Specifically, the incubation time for BA.1, which was the initial omicron subvariant, was three days while the incubation time was four days for delta.

In new reporting, experts told HuffPost that they still agree with these findings and are seeing a short incubation period in their own work, too.

While the incubation period for COVID-19 can be anywhere from 2-14 days after exposure to the virus, with the omicron variants currently circulating we see incubation periods much shorter, David Souleles, the campus public health response team director at the University of California, Irvine, told HuffPost via email.

Now, people show symptoms two to five days after exposure, according to Souleles. And, as research has found, with pre-omicron variants, the [incubation] periods tended to be longer, he said.

A shorter incubation period means COVID-19 can spread more easily.



In previous reporting, Souleles told HuffPost that when you become symptomatic faster, you have more of the virus circulating in your system. This makes you more likely to spread the sickness to someone else.

Symptoms, so coughing and sneezing, accelerate the ability of the virus to move from person to person, he said.

Plus, since there is no longer a window of seven to 10 days between infection and symptoms, the virus doesnt have to hang out in a person for a extended period of days before infecting someone else, Souleles explained. With earlier variants, there was a longer gap of time when the virus was building up in the system but not able to be transmitted to another person, he said. Now, that isnt the case.

Say, for example, that you had dinner with a friend on Saturday who informs you on Sunday that they just tested positive for COVID-19, and you may have been exposed at the dinner. If you were infected, chances are your symptoms will appear pretty fast, like by Tuesday or Wednesday.

Theres also a possibility that you may have spread the virus to other people within that short time frame, which was less likely with incubation windows for variants like alpha and beta. With those earlier variants, the virus required more time to build up before being transmissible.

The shortened incubation period is a sign of COVID-19 becoming more contagious.

The shortened incubation period is a sign of COVID-19 becoming more contagious.

The shorter incubation period achieves the viruss goal: to infect more people.

The 2022 JAMA review stated that since the start of the pandemic, COVID-19 has evolved and mutated continuously, producing variants with different transmissibility.

This is because the virus develops changes to its structure that make it more invasive,so it can do what viruses want to do  continue to infect people, Dr. Gregory Poland, a professor of medicine and infectious diseases at Mayo Clinic, previously told HuffPost. The shorter incubation period is one of the ways the virus has mutated to become more contagious, Poland explained.

COVID-19 is now hyper-contagious and has developed the capacity to infect the upper airway more than the lower airway, which makes it that much more transmissible, too. If a virus is in your upper airway (your nose and your throat), itll have an easier time spreading through the respiratory route compared with a virus that is in your lower airway (like the lungs).

How much more contagious are current strains? Poland explained that if [omicron] had shown up and not the original strain [in 2020], we wouldnt be talking about 1 out of 308 Americans being dead, we would probably be talking about 1 out of 200.

As time goes on and COVID-19 continues to infect people, the virus mutates to become more contagious, resulting in new strains.

To protect yourself, get the updated COVID-19 shot in the fall.

This all may seem pretty grim, and understandably so. But there are ways you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

The one thing people can continue to do is make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations, Souleles said.

Updated COVID-19 shots for 2023 have been approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and are expected to be available any day. The new shot will target the XBB.1.5 subvariant  another omicron descendant that was dominant for much of the summer and remains a prevalent strain  although EG.5 is now dominant in the U.S. Still, the boosters are expected to offer strong protection against currently circulating omicron variants as a whole, including XBB.1.5 and EG.5.

When the updated dose becomes available, be sure to get vaccinated, Souleles said. While you are at it, get your seasonal flu vaccine too. Both can be provided at the same time.

And continue to follow the mitigation measures we know well.

Youve heard this hundreds of times in the past three-plus years, but its important to follow the rules that keep COVID-19 from spreading  especially as its more contagious than ever.

Wash your hands for 20 seconds, wear a mask indoors, opt for outdoor settings when possible, stay up to date with your vaccinations, take a COVID-19 test if you feel sick, and isolate if you test positive.

A previous version of this story appeared in August 2022.

Experts are still learning about COVID-19. The information in this story is what was known or available as of publication, but guidance can change as scientists discover more about the virus. Please check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the most updated recommendations.

Related...
Have you ever wondered how you can hide your arrest record from employers and police in Broward County?

If so, check this out: The Broward State Attorneys Office will run a workshop Oct. 5 on sealing and expunging arrest records.

When a criminal history record is sealed or expunged, the public wont have access to it and only certain governmental or related entities will, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. That may help someone to attend school, find a job or even rent an apartment without having an exposed record.

Heres what to know:

What is the difference between having your record sealed or expunged?

In both instances  when a record is sealed or expunged  people outside the criminal justice system wont have access to it.

When a record has been expunged, only law enforcement can have access to it with a court order.

Who qualifies?

You may qualify to have a single arrest record expunged if you were charged with a crime and the case did not result in a conviction.

If you were charged with a crime and you received an adjudication withheld, that case may be eligible to be sealed.

Only cases that occurred in Broward are eligible for review in the county.

When and where is the workshop?

The workshop is 3 to 7 p.m. Oct. 5 at the E. Pat Larkins Community Center, 520 NW Third St. in Pompano Beach.

Its open to adults and juveniles, and walk-ins are welcome. Bring a valid ID.

For more information, go to browardsao.com/seal-or-expunge-a-criminal-record/.

Are you interested in sealing or expunging your arrest record in Miami-Dade, click HERE.
Carlos Fernandez de Cossio speaks with Reuters in an interview in Havana

By Matt Spetalnick

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. and Cuban officials made progress on a range of issues during high-level talks in Washington this week but were unable to narrow differences over the biggest disputes between the countries, Cubas vice foreign minister said on Thursday.

Cubas main concerns are that it remains on the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism and the Biden administrations continuation of Washingtons Cold War-era economic embargo against the Communist-ruled island.

In an interview with Reuters, Cuban Vice Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio said: We believe that it is unreasonable for the United States to continue to carry out a policy with which it disagreed before coming into office, that they know is hurting the Cuban population as a whole."

He said progress was made in talks on migration issues and cooperation in law enforcement, health, science and technology. We welcome them, but they're not the defining factor, the overriding issue, De Cossio told Reuters.

A State Department official said U.S. law includes exemptions and authorizations for exports of food, medicine, and other humanitarian goods to Cuba. "President Biden remains committed to policies that will advance the democratic aspirations of the Cuban people," the official added.

U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, last year partially rolled back some Trump-era restrictions on remittances and travel to Cuba. Havana said his measures were insufficient.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump , a Republican, had designated Cuba a state sponsor of terrorism before leaving office in January 2021. This was part of Trumps reversal of rapprochement with Cuba initiated by his Democratic predecessor, Barack Obama, under whom Biden served as vice president.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller confirmed that De Cossio met on Monday with Brian Nichols, assistant secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs.

Asked whether any progress had been made in a long-running review of whether to lift terrorism-sponsor designation, he told reporters: We have not made a determination that I can report today."

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel will continue to press on the issue this month when he addresses the United Nations General Assembly, De Cossio said.

U.S. officials also reiterated their call for Cuba to release detainees, but Cuban officials countered by asking Washington to discuss prisoners held in the U.S., De Cossio said.

The Biden administration, which condemned Cuba for a crackdown on anti-government protesters in July 2021, considers those arrested to be political prisoners.

Cuba says those detained had violated Cuban law and received fair trials and sentences.

(Reporting by Matt Spetalnick; Editing by Stephen Coates and David Gregorio)
This illustration made available by Johns Hopkins APL and NASA depicts NASAs DART probe. | Steve Gribben, Johns Hopkins via Associated Press

Was last years NASA test to push a potential planet-killing asteroid away from Terra Prime even more successful than previously thought?

A group of California high school students used their schools observatory to monitor the aftermath of the DART missions collision with the distant Dimorphos asteroid last September and discovered the intentional crash worked even better than early NASA data indicated.

Sponsored by NASAs Planetary Defense Coordination Office and led by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, the Double Asteroid Redirection Test, or DART, is a $325 million project designed to crash the 1,260-pound spacecraft traveling at 14,000 mph into Dimorphos, an asteroid thats 525 feet in diameter and 7 million miles from Earth.

Related

The point of the exercise was to see how significantly the previous path of Dimorphos could be altered by the impact in a technique NASA calls asteroid deflector by kinetic impactor.

Dimorphos is a moonlet asteroid, orbiting a larger asteroid named Didymos, which is about a half-mile in diameter. Mission officials have stressed throughout the DART mission that the binary system is not on a path to collide with Earth and therefore poses no actual threat to the planet but is the perfect testing ground to see if an asteroids natural path can be altered via a high-velocity impact.

Before DARTs impact, it would take Dimorphos 11 hours and 55 minutes to make one revolution around Didymos. NASA was hoping the DART collision could alter the cycle by about 73 seconds, but observations made in the weeks following impact determined the results were much more significant, altering Dimorphos revolution period by some 33 minutes.

But students from the Thacher School, a private boarding school for ninth through 12th graders in Ojai, California, used the schools own research-grade observatory to track Dimorphos and Didymos for several months last fall. Their findings revealed that Dimorphos orbital period was a full minute longer than the time reported by NASA last year, according to a recent report in New Scientist.

The Thacher Schools student findings brought the asteroids orbital period to 34 minutes shorter than it was pre-impact.

That was inconsistent at an uncomfortable level, Jonathan Swift, a math and science teacher at the Thacher School who took part in the research, told New Scientist, per Smithsonian Magazine. We tried our best to find the crack in what we had done, but we couldnt find anything.

The unexpected findings were first shared by Swift and his students at a June meeting of the American Astronomical Society and the methodology was confirmed to Smithsonian Magazine by Peter Veres, an astronomer at the Center for Astrophysics, Harvard & Smithsonian.

Scientists arent sure exactly what is behind the degradation of Dimorphos orbital time around Didymos but one theory posits that giant boulders and other material that was blasted off the asteroid following the DART collision may be falling back to the surface, resulting in more collisions that are reducing its orbital cycle, according to Smithsonian Magazines report.

Right now, no known asteroid larger than 140 meters in size has a significant chance to hit Earth for the next 100 years, but only about 40% of those asteroids have been found as of October 2021, according to NASA.

As the collective knowledge-base and expertise grows to include comprehensive identification and tracking of future potential hazards from space, NASA Program Scientist Tom Statler last year said the DART mission will help prepare the residents of Earth to take effective action in the event of some distant, pending catastrophe.
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said she was all in on President Bidens reelection bid in a Thursday interview.

When I look at whats been accomplished with the team that was put together, I am very impressed, Clinton said on MSNBCs Morning Joe. And Im all in to reelect people who got things done. Thats what this country needs.

Clinton acknowledged what she described as legitimate questions about Bidens age, but she suggested the long list of Bidens accomplishments should outweigh those concerns.

The question is legitimate, but the conclusion that people draw is, I think, off base. Look, I am supporting President Biden and Vice President Harris because of what theyve gotten accomplished. Im kind of old-fashioned that way, she said, jokingly. I like to see people, as I said, tackle big problems, bring people together and try to forge solutions.

She touted the Biden administrations legislative achievements, mentioning specifically the investments in infrastructure, clean energy and efforts to lower drug prices.

And I dont know about anybody else, but Im kind of happy that were fixing our bridges and our roads and the rest of our infrastructure, she said. And Im thrilled that we are going to compete with China on advanced manufacturing and that were going to make the transition to clean energy as quickly as we possibly can, plus bring down drug prices.

So when people say to me, Well, hes old. Clinton continued. Yeah, thats right. But look at what hes gotten done. And then, if thats not enough for you, look at the alternative.

Clinton also said she was at the White House two days ago and met with the president and first lady, and, perhaps as a nod to questions on Bidens age, she said, I love their energy, their commitment, their determination.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Hispanic Heritage Month is just around the corner.

Every day is a wonderful time to spotlight the contributions of the Hispanic and Latino communities, but between two months, it is celebrated on a national level.

Before it was a month-long celebration that embraces the culture, history and people of Latin and Hispanic heritage, it was only celebrated for a week.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was later expanded to a whole month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988.

When is Hispanic Heritage Month?

Every year, Hispanic Heritage Month is observed between September 15 and October 15.

The month highlights American citizens whose ancestors come from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America, while elevating their culture and history.

Why is it celebrated between September and October?

While you can check out our full run-down on the heritage month, the heritage month is split between the two months for a very good reason.

September 15 is the anniversary of the Grito de Dolores or the Cry of Dolores, according to Carlos Olave, head of the Hispanic Reading Room at the Library of Congress. The Grito marked the start of the Mexican War of Independence in 1821 and is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. (Mexico and Chile additionally celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18.)

Columbus Day also falls between Hispanic Heritage Month. However, as the explorer has become more controversial, Spanish-speaking countries also celebrate Dia de la Raza or Day of the Race on Oct. 12.

Be sure to follow TODAY.com as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with traditional recipes, childrens books and other books by Latino authors, as well as Latino-owned beauty brands and more contributions from Latino voices.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
[Source]

Hong Kong police have arrested a man for molesting a South Korean tourist who was livestreaming her first visit to the island.

What happened: The woman, who goes by @may5w and has over 16,000 followers on Twitch, was reportedly waiting at a tram stop in the Central area when the man approached her to ask for directions. In a clip circulating online, the man can be seen putting his arm around the woman and grabbing her before asking her to come with him.

Listen, come with me. I'm alone, he can be heard saying as the woman resists.

He then follows her down a stairwell, where he forcefully presses her against a wall and says, I am alone. Come with me.

More from NextShark: FBI Offers $10,000 Reward to Find Missing Mom and Daughter in Irvine

I'm not alone, the streamer repeatedly tells him as she tries to push him away. He can then be seen grabbing her chest and forcibly kissing her head. As she cries for help, the man seemingly flees the scene.

The aftermath: The victim reportedly traveled to Macau after the incident and livestreamed from her hotel on Monday evening. She talked about the bruises she suffered from the incident, noting that she would return to Hong Kong on Wednesday.

The bruises became worse actually, he held me too tight, she told her viewers.

More from NextShark: Arkansas Senator Wants to Ban Chinese Students From Studying 'Advanced' Science and Tech in the US

She also posted a message on her Twitch account saying that she was already in contact with the South Korean consulate.

Arrest: On Tuesday morning, Hong Kong police arrested the 46-year-old man, who works as a waiter, on Belchers Street in Kennedy Town, according to South China Morning Post. Inspector Kong Wai-ming of the Central criminal investigation unit said they seized clothing that matched what the molester in the video was wearing.

Although his name was not released, social media users claimed that the mans name is Amit Jariyal. Police said they received more than 10 reports from livestream viewers on Monday. Kong was grateful to those who had reported the case, adding that maintaining community order and public security relies on the cooperation of the public.

More from NextShark: Manila vows justice for pregnant Filipino worker murdered in Kuwait

Hindu Migrant molested a Korean vlogger in Hong Kong  Korean IRL streamer who was live broadcasting from Hong Kong was sexually harassed by an Indian Hindu migrant named Amit Jaryal. pic.twitter.com/RTlDjpN089  Naman (@Naman_tt) September 11, 2023
Boston 25 News sat down with Lawrence Fire Chief Brian Moriarty to share his memories of a dark day for the area, in advance of the five-year anniversary of the Merrimack Valley gas explosions. Below are excerpts of his conversation with Mark Ockerbloom:

Chief Moriarty: There are so many (memories) and sometimes they flood in and sometimes I just think of it real slow. It was a sudden onslaught of tremendous amount of call volume, all pretty much for the same thing. Everybody was saying Gas pressure, smell, explosions, fires and so many at once that it was overwhelming.

Ockerbloom: I was going to say, have you ever had a busier day in your life?

Chief Moriarty: No, no never had a busier day, hope to never have one that busy again. It was a bit crazy, but you know, in that case comes some organization, some calm its organized chaos. The deputy fire chief on duty that time was Kevin Loughlin and within the first two calls, he knew what it was. He said We have an over pressured type gas event, contact Columbia Gas, get somebody out here, and he hit the nail on the head, thats what it was.

Ockerbloom: What lessons were learned that day?

Chief Moriarty: It was a great exercise in our mutual aid system, and the fact that Massachusetts firefighters train and we train the same, we learn the same things we work under the same NIMS: incident management system. We train and experience things, not that big all that time, but when the stuff hits the fan, everybody was there and it was great.

Ockerbloom: Could this happen again? Is it possible?

Chief Moriarty: Senator Markey, hes got his plan out there, the rules now for gas companies that they have to have engineered plans. It has to be reviewed they cant cut on safety and that is what it came down to in the Merrimack Valley, safety was cut.

Ockerbloom: You tell me its important to mark this anniversary year, why?

Chief Moriarty: Well I think we need to learn from our mistakes. And if we let utilities get away with cutting corners and being cheap, cheating on safety, were going to experience the same thing again. But I also still think gas is safe, I have gas in my house, I think its a good utility. I just think we need to stay on the utilities and we need to keep the pressure on to keep them safe. Right now we enjoy an excellent working relationship with Eversource in our city now.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
A woman walks past the Harold Washington Library Center in Chicago on Sept. 14, 2023, hours after a threat against the library caused an evacuation and an early closure for the day. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

All Chicago Public Library branches, along with all Evanston Public Libraries, were closed for some time today following an emailed bomb threat to area libraries. The threats were made just two days after another wave of threats targeted multiple libraries across the Chicagoland area.

Chicago Public Library Director of Government & Public Affairs Patrick Molloy said threats were also sent to several Lake County libraries but wasnt able to specify which ones.

Advertisement

We find ourselves in an incredibly unfortunate time where libraries are being threatened for the inclusive role we play, read a Thursday statement from Chicago Public Library. Today, in response to a new threat, we evacuated and temporarily closed all CPL locations out of an abundance of caution. Once we learned that the threats were unfounded, we reopened all libraries where we had the capacity to do so.

These newest threats came after a wave of bomb threats were sent Tuesday to specific Chicago and Chicagoland libraries.

Advertisement

Harold Washington Library and a handful of suburban libraries received bomb threats Tuesday afternoon, requiring police and bomb squads to respond and forcing some institutions to close for the day.

No bombs were found and no one was hurt, according to statements from the Chicago Police Department and the libraries affected.

Chicago Police confirmed an anonymous bomb threat was emailed to an employee at Harold Washington Library around 3:30 p.m. Tuesday. The bomb squad conducted security sweeps of the building and no threat was found. The library remained open and police are continuing to investigate.

According to a news release from the Evanston Police Department, officers responded to a report of a bomb threat at Evanston Public Library along with the Cook County Sheriff Bomb Squad and METRA Police Departments K-9 unit Tuesday afternoon. The threat was emailed to the library and mentioned that other bombs were placed at area libraries.

Both the Evanston Main Library and the Robert Crown Community Center, which houses a branch, were evacuated and officers declared the area all clear around 7 p.m., according to the news release. Both libraries reopened on Wednesday.

Another round of threats came to the Evanston Library on Thursday causing both to be closed around 3:30 p.m. according to tweets from the Evanston Police Department. The main library was cleared around 4:20 p.m. and will remain closed for the rest of the day.

Afternoon Briefing Weekdays 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 >

On Tuesday, the Skokie Public Library was informed of the threats made at neighboring Evanston and despite indication from police they were not credible, Skokie Police conducted a full walk-through of the Skokie Library but found nothing of concern, according to Communications and Multimedia Engagement Manager Jane Hanna. The library remained open.

The Addison Public Library closed temporarily Tuesday due to a bomb threat it received over the chat function on its website, according to its Facebook page. The threat was sent around 2 p.m. and Addison Police and the DuPage County Bomb Squad investigated but found no explosives.

Advertisement

In Aurora, the Santori branch of the Aurora Public Library received a threat via electronic means Tuesday and Aurora police evacuated and searched all three of the library districts library buildings but found no dangers. All three reopened later in the afternoon.

Due to the ongoing threats made to area libraries since early August, the Chicago Public Library is planning discussions on how to handle threats of this nature moving forward.

While we closed today (Thursday) out of an abundance of caution, we do not want to embolden these bad actors or make decisions based on unfounded threats and we are going to be developing ongoing plans that also account for the stress and anxiety our workforce is experiencing, read the statement from Chicago Public Library.
HOPEWELL  A man who went missing from a group home last week has been arrested on charges of burglary and larceny after he reportedly stole a car and broke into a business on the day he disappeared.

Elijah Willis Campbell, 18, was arraigned Monday morning in Hopewell General District Court on two counts of burglary, two counts of petit larceny and one count of grand larceny. The two burglaries and the grand larceny are felony charges.

Campbell was reported missing Sept. 7 from the residence on Clay Street. A police news release dated Sept. 8 said Campbell was located around 3:30 p.m. the day before and is safe, but it did not mention the arrests.

The arrests were noted on the private page of a Hopewell Facebook group. Some posters alleged Campbell broke into a cell-phone store and later stole a car from a nearby car lot.

A Hopewell Police spokesperson confirmed the charges but did not specify the location or nature of the incidents.

Online records from Hopewell General District Court show the specific burglary charges as enter building to rape, etc. and enter building to commit assault & battery. The larcenies involve the stolen car and two counts of trying to steal less than $1,000 from not a person.

Campbell, who has been diagnosed with autism, is from Frederick County, Virginia. A preliminary hearing on all the charges has been set for Nov. 27 in Hopewell General District Court.

This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Missing Hopewell man found, arrested for break-ins and car theft
WE HEAR: The fictional and real-life versions of Washington are poised to collide once again as a House of Cards star heads to a Capitol Hill briefing on military quality of life.

Michael Kelly, who played White House chief of staff Doug Stamper on Netflixs political thriller, will be on-hand for a Thursday afternoon panel discussion held by the nonprofit Blue Star Families at the Longworth House Office Building.

The event is aimed at shining a spotlight on what is being done, and what more should be done, to address the unique needs of military families, including spouse employment, childcare, food security, mental health, housing and community support, according to Blue Star Families.

In addition to his House of Cards role, Kelly played an Army lieutenant general in the 2017 National Geographic Channel miniseries The Long Road Home and joined a 2019 USO tour. Reps. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.), Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Craigslist founder Craig Newmark and Blue Star Families CEO Kathy Roth-Douquet are also among the briefings participants.

Journalist Kara Swisher and Newmark will also headline a Blue Star Families reception for military families on Thursday at Dog Tag Bakery in Washington. The group is expected to unveil a new campaign inspired by a $100 million donation from Newmarks philanthropic foundation to organizations that support military families and veterans, which was announced in June.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) met with skeptical Senate Republicans on Wednesday to lay out their roadmap for conducting an impeachment inquiry into President Biden.

The House Republican chairmen highlighted dozens of suspicious activity reports filed by multiple banks in connection to companies that funneled millions of dollars to Hunter Biden , the presidents son, and said they would seek bank records to delve more deeply into the Biden familys businesses.

Comer and Jordan told senators they dont have any preconceived timeline for the inquiry and instead will follow the facts, which means the House impeachment inquiry is likely to stretch well into the 2024 election year, possibly reaching a crescendo in the summer or fall.

Jordan told The Hill before the meeting the timeline for the impeachment inquiry would be driven by the facts, something he also told GOP senators behind closed doors.

One of the biggest obstacles the House chairmen face is the public and private skepticism of their Republican colleagues in the Senate, who have privately dismissed the inquiry as a waste of time and publicly questioned whether there is enough evidence to pursue an impeachment inquiry at all.

House Republicans are probing foreign business dealings by Bidens family members while he was vice president, as well as allegations by whistleblowers that federal authorities slow-walked an investigation into Hunter Biden.

The White House has repeatedly denied President Biden had any involvement with his sons business dealings.

The complexity of Hunter Bidens business dealings, as well as the claims and counterclaims of various whistleblowers and witnesses, has made it difficult for Republican senators to keep track of the sprawling House investigations.

Senate Steering Committee Chairman Mike Lee (R-Utah) said he invited Comer and Jordan to speak to the Wednesday Republican lunch so skeptical colleagues could hear directly from the men leading the impeachment inquiry.

We wanted to hear their thoughts about the progress of their investigations on the respective committees, Lee said.

He added it was important that colleagues with questions about the justification for the inquiry hear from the two lawmakers most familiar with what the House probes have found so far.

Sometimes theres not quite as much interaction as there should be with our House colleagues, he said.

Some Republican senators who listened to the presentation from Comer and Jordan say they were struck by the sheer number of instances in which banks reported suspicious financial activity linked to Hunter Biden.

There were more than 100 suspicious activity reports filed by a lot of different banks with respect to Mr. Hunter Biden and the shell companies and that shocked me, Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) said.

Suspicious activity reports do not necessarily mean illegal activity occurred, and only a small percentage of the millions of reports from banks filed each year lead to law enforcement investigations.

Kennedy said Comer and Jordan told senators that they will try to obtain bank records to learn more about the sources of money that funneled into Hunter Bidens bank account.

They were very careful to say were not putting a timeline on anything, he said. Theyre trying to get personal bank accounts, which is the logical next step and thats more complicated than it sounds.

Other Republican senators said they remain skeptical after listening to Comer and Jordan explain why they believe an impeachment inquiry into Biden is necessary.

I dont see what the evidence is, what the charge is, said a Republican senator who requested anonymity to comment frankly on the House investigation.

I hate to see an impeachment every other year, the senator said, noting Comer and Jordan gave their presentation to overcome Senate GOP skepticism about the House endeavor.

The Democratic-controlled House impeached former President Trump in 2019 and 2021.

The senator warned of a potential public backlash to the House Republican impeachment inquiry in next years presidential election.

We got high prices and spending and all these other things we should be thinking about, and yet were going to be spending all our time investigating basically a guy with addiction problems, the senator said, referring to Hunter Biden. Its a waste of time.

The House Republicans rationale for pursuing an impeachment inquiry against Biden suffered a blow Wednesday when The Hill and other media outlets reported that Thomas Sobocinski, the FBI lead on the team investigating Hunter Biden, disputed the claims of an IRS whistleblower who alleged senior Justice Department officials gave the younger Biden preferential treatment.

McCarthy earlier this summer floated the possibility of launching an impeachment inquiry into Attorney General Merrick Garland based on the IRS whistleblowers claim.

Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) said after the meeting that House investigators believe Hunter Bidens business network received $24 million in foreign money.

I think Comers saying theyre up to about $24 million  I dont know what the exact figure is  of money coming in from overseas into this labyrinth  of shell companies, he said.

House Republicans have argued elevating the House investigation of the Bidens to an impeachment inquiry would help them enforce subpoenas in the courts.

Their hope and their belief is that by elevating it to an impeachment inquiry, which is a constitutional authority which only the House has, the courts are going to be far more likely to speed up their consideration of these cases to obtain records, Johnson said.

Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), a member of the Senate Republican leadership team, said he felt more confident about the impeachment inquiry after hearing the presentation from the House chairmen.

I liked the structure that theyre putting around it, he said. Unlike the Democrats in the past two impeachments, theyre committed to discovery, they know that will take time.

I am convinced that Jordan and Comer are serious about getting the evidence that they need to substantiate very serious allegations. Theyll do their homework. That of course raises a question how much time thats going to take, Tillis said.

Some Republican senators are leery about stretching an impeachment inquiry and possibly a House vote on articles of impeachment and a subsequent Senate trial into the election year, when they hope to win back the Senate majority.

They note that the House Republican impeachment of Bill Clinton backfired politically in the 1998 midterm election, when the presidents party picked up five House seats  a break from the well-established historical trend of the presidents party losing seats during the midterm election of a second presidential term.

The impeachment of then-President Trump in 2019 didnt help House Democrats keep the majority they won in the 2018 midterm elections. They wound up losing 13 seats in the 2020 presidential election, putting Republicans in position to win back control the House in 2022.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) warned last month that impeachment is bad for the country.

He criticized Democrats for rushing to impeach Trump twice, which he thought lowered the bar for future impeachment proceedings.

I said two years ago, when we had not one but two impeachments, that once we go down this path it incentivizes the other side to do the same thing, he told The New York Times.

Impeachment ought to be rare, he said. This is not good for the country.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) pointed to GOP hypocrisy as he compared the partys interests in the Biden family to their attention toward President Donald Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner.

We sit here, we hear our colleagues bring up certain things like, Oh, the Biden family took money from a foreign entity, right? And its just like, well, really? I mean, do they really not know that Jared Kushner took $2 billion from the Saudis? asked Moskowitz at a House Oversight and Accountability Committee hearing on Wednesday.

The Florida Democrat was referring to the Saudi-backed private equity fund giving $2 billion to Kushners investment firm six months after he left as an adviser in the Trump White House.

On Tuesday, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) called on committees to open an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden while the White House, in response, has pushed back at Republicans unprecedented, unfounded claims toward the president and his family.

Moskowitz noted Wednesday that Republicans go on social media to blame the Saudis for 9/11 but dont have any questions on the investment.

And I just think that the American people recognize that they have no credibility, Moskowitz said of Republicans.

Its why the stuff theyve been selling in this committee for nine months has not translated, which is why they gotta start all over again. Its just you dont have any credibility when you only want to look at one side of the coin, right? he added.

Moskowitz: Republicans go on Twitter and blame the Saudis for 9/11 but Jared Kushner gets $2 billion from the Saudis and they dont have any questions pic.twitter.com/76z9bsmMfC  Acyn (@Acyn) September 13, 2023

Related...
Pay Dirt is a weekly foray into the pigpen of political funding. Subscribe here to get it in your inbox every Thursday.

Government watchdogs have long accused the Federal Election Commission of failing in its mission to enforce laws regulating money in politics. Next week, however, those questions will come from members of Congress, when the FEC faces its first oversight hearing in years.

Rep. Joe Morelle (D-NY), ranking member on the House Administration Committee, which will host the hearing, told The Daily Beast that the FEC must be modernized, or political money will continue to flood the system and outmatch the voices of everyday voters.

The FEC simply is not keeping up with modern campaigns. There is more money coming into elections than ever before, most of it dark and undisclosed, and its increasing at an exponential rate. It increases the risk for corruption and is a threat to national security. Voters voices are drowned out and they have less insights into who is trying to influence their votes and their representatives, Morelle said in a statement.

Congress should not and cannot wait to pass reforms to put the FEC in position to enforce the law and hold candidates, committees, and mega donors accountable to voters, he said.

Government Watchdog Group Asks Feds to Investigate Herschel Walker Money Scandal

The Democrats plan to use the moment to draw attention to what they see as the FECs inadequate enforcement of campaign finance laws, making the case for reform. Their concerns apply particularly to issues like the influence of dark money and foreign contributions, which Democrats and transparency advocates have been raising alarms about ever since the Supreme Court issued its landmark Citizens United decision in 2010.

Democrats have a wish list, drawing from the Freedom to Vote Act. Reforms include empowering the agencys general counsel to take action where the commissioners have failed, and opening new channels for complainants to bring unresolved matters directly to the courts. But Republican commissioner Allen Dickerson has proposed new controversial steps that would further restrict the OGC and give commissioners the power to micromanage investigationsa proposal that was tabled for discussion after Morelle pushed back last month.

Watchdog groups are also applauding the hearing. These transparency advocates have been frustrated for years, as the FECs six-person bipartisan panel has frequently failed to attain the necessary four votes to act on enforcement matterseven in major cases where the agencys general counsel recommends action.

Brendan Fischer, deputy executive director at Documented, told The Daily Beast that the agency has walled itself off from oversight, and congressional hearings are one of the few remaining ways to hold the FEC accountable to its mission of upholding and enforcing the laws governing money in our political system.

The FEC is largely shielded from judicial oversight, with commissioners hiding behind prosecutorial discretion to insulate their decisions from review by courts, Fischer told The Daily Beast. He added that this sense of immunity appears to extend to the commissioners themselves, with GOP commissioner Dick Trainor recently blowing off an investigation by the FECs ethics watchdog without consequence, referring to Trainors refusal to cooperate with an internal ethics investigation into his appearance at a political event.

Ahead of the hearing, Democrats on the House Administration Committee asked the FEC to provide data about its enforcement decisionsspecifically where the commissioners failed to act on enforcement recommendations from the agencys nonpartisan office of general counsel. The data is revealing, showing that over the last four years, the commission has failed to reach the necessary majority consensus in nearly two out of every three cases that it closed.

More unnerving for transparency advocates is the FECs failure to follow the recommendations of its own general counsel. Since the Supreme Courts 2010 Citizens United decision opened the door for super PACs, dark money, and unlimited contributions in elections, the FEC has not acted in dozens of cases where the OGC recommended otherwise.

For instance, the OGC has recommended action in 59 cases alleging unlawful super PAC coordination. The commissioners did so in just seven of those cases. And in cases involving potential committee status violations, the FEC acted on five of OGCs two dozen recommendations.

How the Hell Is Trump 43-0 vs. Campaign Finance Watchdogs?

The Democrats are also disappointed in the FECs limited ability to identify and regulate foreign money filtering into elections. And on that issue, the FEC has taken up the OGCs recommendation less than half the time, the data shows. Almost every one of those decisions not to act11 out of 13 timeswere related to former President Donald Trump.

Last year, The Daily Beast reported that Trump has posted a conspicuously remarkable undefeated record against campaign finance allegations43 and 0. Democrats on the Administration panel also asked for FEC data on Trump investigations, and found that the numbers had increased in the meantime, with Trump surviving all 56 matters since he declared his candidacy in June 2015.

Of those 56 cases, OGC recommended that the commissioners find reason to believe a violation had occurred in 26 of them. The GOP commissioners voted down all 26.

Government transparency groups know this data all too well, having filed years of complaints that have been validated by the OGC only to be shot down by a deadlocked commission.

Saurav Ghosh, director of federal reform for nonpartisan watchdog Campaign Legal Center, told The Daily Beast that the FECs inaction has had lasting negative effects on the democratic process, and public accountability is long overdue.

For well over a decade now, the FEC has failed to enforce the laws that govern our federal elections, and the result has been a drastic increase in political spending, commonsense laws being broken without recourse, less transparency for American voters and more influence for wealthy special interests, Ghosh said.

This ideological split, with at least half of the FECs six commissioners routinely refusing to enforce the law, has gone on far too long, he added. A discussion of this topic on the floor of the House is long overdue.

Asked for comment, FEC Chair Dara Lindenbaum and Vice Chair Sean Cookseya Democrat and a Republicanprovided a statement claiming that the commissioners reach bipartisan agreement in nearly 90 percent of enforcement matters.

As Commissioners, we do our level best to work together and to enforce the law fairly and consistently. Without commenting on any specific case, Commissioners take each enforcement matter on its merits, and we reach bipartisan agreement in nearly 90 percent of them, the statement said, without providing a timeframe or other context for that statistic. Any narrative that the Commission is mired in deadlock or that its bipartisan structure prevents it from enforcing the law is misinformed.

But partisanship can be sliced a number of ways. The FEC is required to have six commissioners, three Democratic appointees, three Republican, with four votes required for enforcement action. For a long time, one of the Democrats was an independent who typically voted with the Dems. But for more than a year under Trump, the agency didnt have enough commissioners to attain a quorum, meaning enforcement matters couldnt even be considered.

More to the point, the FECs own data shows that of all enforcement matters the agency voted on since 2019, the commissioners recorded at least one split vote in about 63 percent of themmeaning that in those votes, no position received the necessary support of four or more members. The data also shows that in 14 percent of those enforcement matters, all votes were split, including procedural votes in those matters. (Votes to close files were not counted.)

The large-scale logjam has dropped off this year, with a split vote appearing in 48 percent of enforcement matters, with just five percent of matters showing splits on every vote.

That shift in agreement can be attributed to Lindenbaums appointment restoring the 3-3 partisan balance. However, the new composition has also ruffled watchdogs, who have lived the narrative referenced in the commissioners statement and would appear to disagree vehemently with that statements spin. Two of the agencys Democratic commissioners also seem to disagree with those claims, finding themselves on the opposite side of votes cast by Lindenbaum, who joined the agency last August.

Watchdog Says These Trump Cronies Illegally Campaigned in Office

Ghosh noted that the ongoing divide is about whether the agency fulfills its mission, not just which party the commissioners belong to.

Certain commissioners simply do not appear to support the mission of the agency they were appointed to lead, he said.

Ghosh appears to be referring at least in part to Lindenbaum, who upon her swearing-in has sided against her Democratic colleagues, Ellen Weintraub and Shana Broussard, in a number of enforcement matters. Most specifically, Lindenbaumwho unlike Weintraub and Broussard came to the FEC from a private political firmhas voted with the three GOP commissioners to close deadlocked matters, robbing watchdog groups of a judicial end-around they had devised to bring unresolved investigations to federal court.

Ann Ravel, a Democrat who left the commission in early 2017, also disagreed with the commissioners statement, telling The Daily Beast that the FEC continues to fail in matters of great importance to democracy.

The FEC, unfortunately, continues to rarely have the needed four votes to enforce the law in cases that have deleterious impact on democracy, Ravel said. Money in politics is one of the biggest ways that corruption in the political process undermines democracy. The FEC has failed to enforce the law in matters of great importance to the electoral processes.

That trajectory would appear to be further codified in Dickersons recent proposal, which among other things would give commissioners more power over individual investigative steps.

Stephen Spaulding, vice president of policy at watchdog Common Cause, sharply objected to those new policies.

To require line attorneys to seek four votes from commissioners for developments in their investigations, such as wanting to speak to a new witnessthe commission already has a central role in providing supervisory guidance, they dont need to micromanage, stepping into this role is unnecessary and would further create gridlock, Spaulding told The Daily Beast.

HAC Democrats have some specific reforms in mind, all of which appear in the Freedom to Vote Act.

For one, in light of the commissions ideological logjams, congressional Democrats would like to give more enforcement power to the FECs nonpartisan Office of General Counselthe in-house legal investigative unit. Currently, the OGC can make recommendations about violations, and, when authorized by a majority of the six commissioners, the office can further investigate and deliver its findings. But Democrats would like to give the OGC the ability to take action against campaign finance violations, unless the commission votes to overrule that decision.

Another item on the enforcement wish list would be to engage the courts.

One measure would allow judges to review FEC dismissals, while barring the courts from considering claims of prosecutorial discretion as permissible defense for deciding not to take action on major violationsa sticking point among watchdog groups, as well. (A related reform would extend the statute of limitations on cases from five years to ten, depriving GOP commissioners of another common enforcement exit ramp.) Yet another proposal would allow private parties to bring civil lawsuits if the commission fails to act on a complaint.

expressed hope that next weeks hearing wont be as performative as the campaign finance hearings that the committees GOP members have presided over since acquiring the gavel in January.

Trump-Appointed Commissioner to FEC Press Office: Shut Up About Complaints

Committee Republicans have had a lot of show hearings, which have not been particularly substantive in many cases, but theyve been using them to build a record to further dismantle campaign finance laws, Spaulding told The Daily Beast, referring to the Republican-backed ACE Act. That bill, he said, would add protections for more dark money in our elections and permit secret contributions to outside groups that are spending money in campaigns.

He added that House Republicans appear all too happy to see the FEC fail at its enforcement mission.

Some parts of the FEC are functioning really well. The resources and training they offer for candidates, and the administrative fine division, which has led to a dramatic reduction in late filings, he said. Unfortunately there are some major issues in the enforcement process that have broken down. Thats still concerning, but Im hoping the oversight hearing will allow congress and the public to hear from the commissioners and get some reforms going.

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.
(Bloomberg) -- Republican lawmakers are pressing the Biden administration to completely cut off Huawei Technologies Co. and Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp. from their American suppliers after Huawei launched a new phone using highly advanced technology the US has been trying to keep out of Chinas hands.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The phone, which uses a made-in-China 7-nanometer chip that appears to rely on US technology, has stoked debate in Washington over the effectiveness of US attempts to curtail Chinas technological and military prowess.

Huawei and SMIC, the Chinese company that produced the chip, are both already subject to partial US sanctions  and are among the primary targets of an export control regime the Biden administration has imposed over the last year. The GOP lawmakers want to escalate restrictions on the companies to full sanctions.

Huaweis advanced phone shows existing restrictions arent effective, a group of 10 Republican representatives led by House Foreign Affairs Chairman Michael McCaul wrote in a Thursday letter to Alan Estevez, the undersecretary for industry and security at the Commerce Department. The group, which also includes the leaders of the Energy and Commerce, Armed Services and China Select Committees, requested a briefing from Commerces Bureau of Industry and Security as well as the Departments of Defense, State and Energy by Sept. 28.

Read More: US Probes Made-in-China Chip as Tensions Flare Over Technology

Due to the ubiquity of US origin technology throughout the semiconductor supply chain, these reports suggest a violation of US export control regulations, the lawmakers wrote. We are extremely troubled and perplexed about the Bureau of Industry and Securitys (BIS) inability to effectively write and enforce export control rules against violators, especially China.

The Commerce Department has stayed silent on whether SMIC is violating US sanctions as they investigate the new chip. The department didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

Huawei and SMIC are already blacklisted by the US, meaning that American suppliers and others need to obtain special trade licenses to ship to both firms. The companies also are among the targets of export controls announced last year that aim to block Chinas semiconductor production from advancing beyond a 14-nanometer chip thats about eight years behind the most cutting-edge technology.

The Biden administration has been weighing changes to its Huawei licensing policy for months, and has long been under pressure from Republican lawmakers to deny any new licenses to the firm. Now, lawmakers are seizing on the new Huawei phone as more evidence that the US needs to ratchet up its regime.

Read More: Biden Team Weighs Fully Cutting Off Huawei From US Suppliers

Specifically, the letter calls for complete blocking sanctions against SMIC and Huawei and a ban on US imports of SMIC-produced chips. The lawmakers also say Commerce should place SMIC, Huawei and all of their subsidiaries on a so-called entity list, subjecting them to trade restrictions, as well as revoke all existing licenses and deny new licenses, and pursue criminal charges against executives at both firms.

--With assistance from Jenny Leonard.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Federal prosecutors say this court record photo shows Nhi Ngoc Mai Le, of Lake in the Hills, the 41st Illinoisan to be arrested in the investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. (U.S. District Court records)

A Lake in the Hills woman is the 41st Illinoisan to be arrested in connection with the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol as part of what federal prosecutors have called one of the most expansive criminal investigations in the nations history.

According to court records made public Wednesday, Nhi Ngoc Mai Le, 26, discussed her opposition to communism in Vietnam and her plans to (contribute) a small part ... to save America, which she called her second home and paradise in social media posts written in Vietnamese in the days preceding the attack.

Advertisement

A Sept. 6 criminal complaint quotes a Facebook post in which Le wrote that a free country is under attack by underground forces before saying she planned to travel to Georgia for a rally with then-President Donald Trump and then on to Washington, D.C.

As much as you love the country, you hate the communists, she wrote.

Advertisement

She surrendered to federal authorities Sept. 8, according to a federal court docket.

The criminal complaint states Le originally denied entering the U.S. Capitol in an April 2021 interview, but said in a subsequent February 2022 interview that she had entered the Capitol on Jan. 6.

Afternoon Briefing Weekdays 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 >

The complaint cites video footage from the U.S. Capitol that shows Le sitting on a railing outside the building and encouraging rioters to enter the Capitol. She is later seen inside the building.

It also details Facebook messages and videos sent between Le and others in which Le allegedly said she had climbed a wall to access the Capitol, went inside the building and had been pepper-sprayed. According to the complaint, the videos Le sent in the chats show her inside the Capitol.

The complaint also details Les Facebook posts calling on viewers to remember Jan. 6 as a historic day.

Proud to be a Trump Supporter, remember todays historic event January 6th, Le wrote. It was a pleasure to meet so many very enthusiastic brothers from all over the United States.

Le faces charges of knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building and parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Sheila Finnegan ordered Le released on bond, records show.
Prosecuting attorney Rusty Hardin sits at the prosecutors table after resting the House's case during the seventh day of suspended Attorney General Ken Paxtons impeachment trial on Sept. 13, 2023. Credit: Eddie Gaspar/The Texas Tribune

The House impeachment managers rested their case against Ken Paxton on Wednesday amid a dramatic day that centered around questions of whether the attorney generals paramour would take the stand and an abandoned effort to force a vote for an early verdict.

Paxtons lawyers sought to cast doubt on a key prosecution claim that Nate Paul, the attorney generals friend and donor at the center of the trial, paid to renovate the Austin home owned by the attorney general and his wife.

And the prosecution bungled its attempt to call the woman Paxton allegedly had an affair with, a crucial witness that could have helped prove the second element of the Houses bribery claim. Another impeachment article alleges Paul employed the woman in return for Paxton abusing the power of his office to help Paul harass and investigate his perceived enemies.

The House impeachment attorneys were racing against the clock Wednesday. At the start of the day, the prosecution had five hours and 17 minutes remaining to present their case, while Paxton side had almost double that.

Around 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, toward the end of the seventh day of the trial, House lawyer Rusty Hardin announced the managers would rest. But he quickly realized he made the announcement too soon, cutting off further questioning of the current witness by either side. Paxton defense lawyer Tony Buzbee said he was fine with that and instead of beginning to present the defenses case, he motioned for a directed verdict, a request for a dismissal of the articles of impeachment for lack of evidence.

That set off a kerfuffle as jurors realized the seriousness of what Buzbee was seeking. They met behind closed doors for about 45 minutes to consider the request.

When they returned, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, the presiding officer of the trial, announced Paxtons lawyers had withdrawn their motions for the dismissal and the trial would proceed with the defenses witnesses.

The flurry of events capped one of the most dramatic days of the trial. As Wednesday began, House impeachment managers sought to call a key witness  Laura Olson, the woman with whom Paxton allegedly had an affair  but it was too soon for her to testify under a rule requiring 24-hour notice.

By late afternoon, Olson became eligible to testify, but the two sides reached an unspecified agreement that resulted in her leaving the Capitol without taking the stand. Patrick only said that she had been deemed unavailable to testify, but she was planning to assert her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and refuse to answer questions, according to two people with direct knowledge of the situation.

Olsons testimony was highly anticipated. Despite being a central figure in Paxtons problems dating back to at least 2018, Olson had never spoken out about their relationship. In moving to impeach Paxton in May, members of the House investigative committee said covering up the affair was his primary motivation for helping Paul, a claim echoed by the whistleblower witnesses the past week.

Olson sat alone in the Legislative Reference Library as she waited for hours to be called to testify, according to one reporter at the Capitol.

Prosecutors, unable to call Olson in the morning, called another highly anticipated witness: Drew Wicker, Paxtons personal assistant, who was often glued to the attorney generals side and was once referred to as a second son by Sen. Angela Paxton.

Wickers testimony was perhaps the most challenging for the House on Wednesday. House impeachment lawyers labored to prove the 10th article of impeachment, which alleges that Paul paid to renovate the Paxtons Austin home.

Wicker testified that he overheard Paxton telling a contractor renovating the home that he wanted granite countertops in the kitchen, to which the contractor responded Ill have to check with Nate. Wicker understood this to be Paul.

But in cross-examination, Buzbee produced two photographs of the Tarrytown homes kitchen, taken before the renovation in 2020 and last month, that Wicker confirmed showed no changes to the counters, cabinets or stove.

Can we agree, Drew, that your concerns now have been put to bed, at least with regard to the countertops and the cabinetry? Buzbee asked.

With regards to those two items, yes sir, Wicker replied.

House impeachment managers have cast the renovation as part of a quid pro quo, alleging Paxton directed his office to help Paul investigate his business rivals and the police investigating him.

Then Buzbee walked the jury through a series of documents that he said showed a contractor billing the Paxtons, an insurance company paying out a claim to the Paxtons, and then the attorney general directing the trustee of the familys blind trust to pay that sum of $121,617 to the contractor.

The Houses evidence for this item was largely circumstantial. Their exhibits had previously pointed out that the construction firm, Cupertino Builders, was run by a man, Raj Kumar, with close ties to Paul.

House lawyer Erin Epley suggested that perhaps Paxton and Paul merely considered, but did not follow through on, a plan to install granite countertops. And she suggested that Paxton changed course once he became aware hed been reported to law enforcement, noting that the date of the payment, Sept. 30, 2020, was the same day that the whistleblowers reported Paxton to the FBI.

I guess Ill end where the defense began, Epley said, parroting a line from Buzbee. There are no coincidences in Austin.

The trial is scheduled to resume at 9 a.m. Thursday with the first defense witness, University of North Carolina professor Michael Gerhardt, who is an expert on impeachments.

The House has put itself at a disadvantage because it appears to have a maximum of two hours left of its allotted questioning time, compared with about four hours for the defense. If House lawyers are not brief with witnesses, that could permit a scenario where Paxtons team can call witnesses that will not be cross-examined.

After each side has finished with witnesses, lawyers will get one hour to present rebuttal evidence and another hour for closing arguments.

On top of all the other drama Wednesday, the House proposed changing the trial rules to raise the stakes for Paxton. The chambers lawyers filed a motion asking that Paxton be automatically disqualified from holding state office again if he is convicted. Under the current rules, the so-called disqualification decision is a separate vote that would come after conviction.

Proposed changes to the trial rules require a 24-hour notice and then a two-thirds vote of the senators. The House proposed the rule change Wednesday morning, so it will be eligible for a vote the same time Thursday.

Paxtons side opposed the rules change, writing that it would be modifying 100 years of precedent on the fly.

The full program is now LIVE for the 2023 Texas Tribune Festival, happening Sept. 21-23 in Austin. Explore the program featuring more than 100 unforgettable conversations coming to TribFest. Panel topics include the biggest 2024 races and whats ahead, how big cities in Texas and around the country are changing, the integrity of upcoming elections and so much more. See the full program.
HSHS hospitals, which operates St. Elizabeths Hospital in OFallon and other locations in south central Illinois, is bringing its technology back online after an attack from cyber criminals resulted in a system-wide outage across its entire network, which also has hospitals in Iowa and Wisconsin.

HSHS officials have confirmed the outage was caused by a cyber attack. It brought down phones, medical records, imaging software and other systems for more than two weeks, causing doctors and other personnel to care for patients without vital technology.

According to hospital officials, telephone lines were restored last week, and on Tuesday the system restored EPIC, the electronic medical records system that allows health providers to share information with each other and look at patient histories.

HSHS colleagues have been working around the clock to restore systems, prioritizing clinical applications as part of our relentless focus on safely caring for our patients, spokeswoman Kelly Barbeau said in a statement. We remain focused on restoring remaining affected systems, including business applications, in a methodical and thoughtful manner, which will take time to complete.

HSHS also operates hospitals in Litchfield, Breese and Greenville, Illinois.

St. Elizabeths is only the latest clinic in the region to be hit by cyber criminals. In 2021, Missouri Delta Medical Center in Sikeston, about 30 miles south of Cape Girardeau, saw a data breach in which a third party stole information from one of its servers.

Later that year, an attack on Capital Region Medical Center in Jefferson City disabled phone lines and other technology for days.

Hospitals are vulnerable to cyber attacks because they often rely on huge interconnected networks and servers, said Errol Weiss, chief security officer at the Health Information Sharing and Analysis Center, a cybersecurity nonprofit.

When you look at a modern day hospital, its a big IT information technology environment, he said. The servers that are doing everything from electronic health records, patient entry, intake of patients, distributing medicine, imaging systems, medical devices .every single one of those is dependent on that network to perform its job.

Such attacks on health systems have become more common since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, said John Riggi, national advisor of cybersecurity and risk for the American Hospital Association. The pandemic spurred hospitals to rely more on the internet to connect providers and patients.

We deployed a lot of this network and internet connected technology, all with noble intention to treat patients and save lives, he said, But ultimately, what that also did as an unintended consequence was that it expanded our digital attack surface, which the bad guys immediately took advantage of, and started increasing their attacks.

Riggi said that patients at HSHS locations should keep an extra sharp eye on their medical bills and credit accounts and report any spending they dont recognize.
A photo provided by the National Park Service shows a new crack that recently appeared on the western side of the Royal Arches formation in Yosemite National Park. (National Park Service)

A massive crack has opened up on a Yosemite National Park cliff face, raising the risk of a dangerous rockfall and forcing the indefinite closure of part of a popular trail, park officials said.

Rock climbers recently reported the crack on the western side of the Royal Arches, near a climbing route known as Super Slide above the Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, according to the National Park Service.

Upon further investigation, officials found that the crack had partially detached a large pillar of rock, and the split was growing.

A climbing guide who scaled the rock face Aug. 6 did not see the crack; by the time of his Aug. 20 climb, the crack had appeared, up to an inch wide and 200 feet long, the recreational magazine Outside reported.

Read more: 'It was mad': Large rock falls from Yosemite's El Capitan; visitor captures video

"A climbing ranger and a geologist observed it firsthand and they could hear it cracking like a frozen lake that wasnt consolidated, supervisory park ranger Jesse McGahey told Outside. And there were pieces of rock rattling down the crack without touching it. The park geologist said theyd never seen anything like this. Hes never been able to observe that in his 15 years in Yosemite.

As a precaution to reduce the risk from potential rockfalls, the National Park Service closed a quarter-mile of the Yosemite Valley Loop Trail at the Ahwahnee hotel. There is no timeline for a complete reopening of the trail, but in the meantime hikers can take a detour.

All climbing routes from Peruvian Flake West to the Rhombus Wall are also closed, including the popular routes Serenity Crack/Sons of Yesterday and Super Slide.

Read more: Black bears are also scaling Yosemite's Half Dome: What to do if you meet up

Rockfalls are relatively common in Yosemite, increasing last year as strong fall storms hit the area. In 2022, Yosemite had a documented total of 52 rockfalls within the park, recent data show.

The largest rockfall of 2022 occurred in November from halfway up Middle Brother, part of the Three Brothers granite formation. A roughly 4,000-ton slab of rock detached from the face of Middle Brother and hit a ledge, dislodging over 440 tons more of rock from two other points on the lower end of the cliff. Some boulders caused damage to Northside Drive.

On Dec. 27, another rockfall east of the park's Arch Rock Entrance fragmented into dozens of boulders, striking a vehicle on El Portal Road and killing two people inside.

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Correction: The letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was signed by groups including Human Rights Campaign. A previous version of this article contained incorrect information.

More than 30 advocacy organizations called for the Pentagon to release an updated report on how white supremacy and other forms of extremism are impacting the military and retired service members, saying the Defense Department has made little information public on the issue.

In a Wednesday letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin , the groups raised concerns that findings from a Pentagon report on extremism in the military have yet to be made public, warning that keeping the information undisclosed could harm efforts to tackle the problem.

Extremism undermines the strength of the military and our democracy, according to the letter. We owe it to those who are serving and who have served to make addressing this threat a priority.

The letter was led by Human Right First and signed by other groups such as Human Rights Campaign, as well as veterans groups like Military Veterans of America and liberal organizations including the Anti-Defamation League and the Southern Poverty Law Center.

In late 2021, Austin ordered sweeping changes to confront extremism in the ranks based on a working groups recommendations. Those included tightening screening procedures and forming an investigative unit to weed out extremist service members  actions that garnered approval from concerned groups.

But an internal report on the extremist problem across the military remains classified, and a Pentagon watchdog found last month that the military has failed to comprehensively screen applicants for extremists. A USA Today report over the summer also identified a broader failure to implement the promised reforms.

In the letter Wednesday, the concerned organizations pointed out that hundreds of Americans with military backgrounds have been arrested for extremism-related charges from 1990 to 2023, and they noted instances of veterans engaging in political violence, including a Marine charged in June with firebombing a Planned Parenthood clinic.

They also said those arrested in the storming of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in an effort to overturn the 2020 election included a disproportionate number of Americans with military backgrounds, including five active duty service members.

In Wednesdays letter, the groups said they understand the urgency of this threat and the impact it has on servicemembers, veterans, and their families.

In addition to the recent arrests, they wrote, extensive data demonstrate that extremism among the military and veteran communities pose grave risks to public safety, national security, and to active duty servicemembers themselves.

Updated: 10:01 a.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
DHAKA (Reuters) - A huge fire gutted several hundreds shops at a market in Bangladeshs capital Dhaka, but there were no casualties as the blaze swept through the area in the early hours of Thursday, before stores opened.

It took six hours for military forces and firefighters to contain the blaze, which spread quickly in the Mohammadpur market due to the large amount of flammable items such as cooking oil and plastics, officials said.

Fire service official Shahjahan Sikder said there were no casualties in the fire, which was likely caused by an electric short circuit.

"My family was dependent on this shop, what to do now? All burnt to ashes," a shopowner told local media.

Fires are common in densely populated Dhaka, which has seen a building boom in recent years, often without proper safety measures. Fires and explosions often occur due to faulty gas cylinders, air conditioners and bad electrical wiring.

In April, a fire in a shopping complex in Dhaka injured several firefighters and burned down some 5,000 stores.

(Reporting by Ruma Paul; editing by Miral Fahmy)
Hunter Biden faces possible additional charges relating to his alleged failure to pay taxes - Tom Williams

Hunter Biden has been indicted on gun charges in the US state of Delaware following an investigation that has lasted years and led to the first-ever prosecution of a sitting presidents child.

President Bidens son has been indicted on three counts of possessing a firearm while addicted to drugs, illegal under federal law.

The indictment follows a lengthy investigation into the 53-year-old businessman, while some Republicans claim his father interfered in the case to protect him.

In addition to the gun charges, Hunter Biden faces the possibility of additional charges relating to his alleged failure to pay taxes.

A plea deal that would have incorporated both sets of charges fell apart in July after a judge refused to accept terms that would have given him some legal immunity.

Three charges related to alleged gun possession

In a court filing on Thursday, prosecutors listed three charges relating to Hunter Bidens alleged possession of a gun while using illegal drugs.

Two are tied to the allegation he filed a form claiming he was not using illegal drugs while purchasing a Colt Cobra revolver in October 2018. The third count alleges that he owned a firearm while using a narcotic.

Hunder Biden with then vice-president Joe Biden in 2009 - Charles Dharapak/AP

The indictment comes after Republicans in the House of Representatives announced an impeachment inquiry into Joe Biden, who they allege lied about his knowledge of his sons business dealings while serving in the Obama White House between 2009 and 2017.

The inquiry, which is the first step towards producing articles of impeachment, will examine whether the president profited from his sons overseas ventures in a culture of corruption. The impeachment proceedings are not connected to the gun charges.

Shadow over re-election campaign

Hunter Bidens criminal indictment suggests he may stand trial in the US before the presidential election in November next year, risking damage to his fathers re-election campaign.

The White House has mostly avoided commenting on the Hunter Biden investigation and has appointed lead prosecutor David Weiss as a special counsel  giving him greater independence from the Department of Justice.

But some Republicans have attempted to draw parallels between the Hunter Biden case and the criminal indictments against Donald Trump, which they argue are politically motivated.

The president has said he has not discussed foreign business dealings with his son and that the Justice Department would have independence in any investigation of a member of his family.

Appearing to allude to the indictment, Mr Biden joked at the end of an economics speech on Thursday that he could get in real trouble if he took questions from journalists.

How sweetheart deal collapsed

Under the terms of a now-collapsed plea deal, Hunter Biden would have admitted two misdemeanour tax charges and enrolled in a programme to avoid prosecution on a gun-related charge.

Republicans had denounced the agreement as a sweetheart deal because it would have allowed him to serve probation rather than jail time in exchange for a guilty plea relating to failing to pay taxes in both 2017 and 2018.

His personal income during those two years was around 3.2 million ($4 million), including business and consulting fees from a company he formed with the CEO of a Chinese business conglomerate and Ukrainian energy company Burisma, prosecutors have said.

The deal collapsed after a federal judge questioned whether the agreement would bar prosecutors from bringing charges on other issues.

Hunter Biden disclosed in December 2020 that Mr Weisss office was investigating his tax affairs. He has denied wrongdoing.

The White House declined to answer questions about the indictment, referring reporters to either the Department of Justice or Hunter Bidens attorneys.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
Federal prosecutors have indicted President Joe Bidens son, Hunter Biden, on three charges stemming from allegedly false statements he made when buying a firearm.

The indictment  the first ever against a sitting presidents son  came after a plea agreement on tax and gun charges collapsed in July under scrutiny from a federal judge.

Charges announced on Thursday follow a multi-year investigation by David Weiss, who was appointed as US attorney for Delaware by Donald Trump in 2018 and has remained under the current administration in an effort to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest.

Mr Weiss was appointed as special counsel in August.

Hunter Biden was set to plead guilty to misdemeanour tax charges and enter a diversion agreement related to a felony gun charge in July, but the agreement appeared to hit a snag during a federal court hearing, and the judge presiding over the case ultimately rejected the arrangement.

Prosecutors later announced they intended to seek a grand jury indictment by the end of September.

Congressional Republicans, meanwhile, continue to investigate the younger Biden and prepare an impeachment inquiry against the president, fuelled by GOP allegations that he was involved with and profited from his sons business dealings. They have not provided any evidence that the president was influenced by or profited from such dealings while in office.

A Delaware grand jurys indictment charges Hunter Biden with illegally owning a gun as a drug user, and with allegedly lying on a form when he bought the firearm. If convicted, he could face up to 25 years in prison, though it is highly unlikely he would face such a sentence.

The charges are expected to draw right-wing outrage and fuel Republican campaigns against the Biden family, as Mr Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican nomination for president, faces four criminal indictments spanning dozens of charges, including for crimes allegedly committed while in office.

A potential trial for Hunter Biden could play out in parallel to Mr Trumps multiple criminal proceedings in four jurisdictions, including courtrooms in Georgia, New York, Washington DC and Florida.

The day before the Biden indictment was announced, his attorneys sued a former Trump-era White House official, Garrett Ziegler,accusing him of launching a sustained, unhinged and obsessed campaign against the Biden family, including hacking the alleged contents of a laptop that were central to political campaigns surrounding the 2020 presidential election, federal investigations and Republican-led congressional probes.

President Biden with his son Hunter in June 2023 (AP)

Court filings in the initial gun case outlined that Hunter Biden was using crack cocaine when he bought a Colt Cobra .38 special revolver from a federally licensed gun dealer in Delaware in October 2018. He indicated on a federal form that he was not using illegal narcotics at the time, according to prosecutors.

The firearm was later discovered in his car with drug paraphernalia before it was subsequently discarded in a trashcan outside a supermarket, the filing states.

Under the terms of the previous plea agreement, Mr Biden would have pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor counts of failing to pay his taxes in exchange for a probation sentence. Felony gun charges would have been dropped in two years if he honoured the terms of a diversion agreement, which attorneys for Mr Biden have said he had already signed and were in effect.

Republican lawmakers had denounced the plea agreement as a sweetheart deal as they railed against the appointment of Mr Weiss as special counsel  despite specifically requesting that Mr Weiss be given the role.

The White House and President Biden, who along with his son have repeatedly publicly addressed his addiction and struggle with drug abuse, have largely avoided discussing the case, though the president supported his son in a recent interview with MSNBC.

The Independent has requested comment from attorneys for Mr Biden.
Hunter Biden , the son of President Joe Biden , was indicted Thursday on federal gun charges less than two months after a plea agreement fell apart over tax and gun charges.

The indictment charges Hunter Biden with knowingly deceiving a firearms dealer when buying a Colt Cobra 38SPL revolver on Oct. 12, 2018. He is charged with falsely filling out a federal firearms form denying he was addicted to any narcotics. And he is charged with knowingly possessing the revolver despite the restrictions against drug addicts owning firearms.

Hunter Biden has acknowledged he was a drug addict at the time.

The charges revive the prospect that Hunter Biden could be jailed if convicted and rekindle his role as a lightning rod for political criticism as his father runs for reelection in 2024. He faces a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison if convicted  five years for the false statement to the dealer, 10 years for the false statement on the federal form and 10 years for possession of the firearm  but actual sentences typically are shorter than the maximum, according to the Justice Department.

Republicans had criticized the plea agreement, which could have carried no jail time, as a "sweetheart deal" and called for a new investigation.

Instead, Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed David Weiss, the U.S. attorney for Delaware who had investigated Hunter Biden for five years before reaching the plea agreement, to be a special counsel to continue his investigation.

Abbe Lowell, one of Hunter Biden's lawyers, dismissed the new charges as a reaction to political pressure. He said that after a five-year investigation, the evidence hadn't changed in the six weeks since prosecutors decided charges were not warranted. Lowell argued the charges are barred under the plea agreement and that the statute is unconstitutional.

Hunter Biden possessing an unloaded gun for 11 days was not a threat to public safety, but a prosecutor, with all the power imaginable, bending to political pressure presents a grave threat to our system of justice," Lowell said. "We believe these charges are barred by the agreement the prosecutors made with Mr. Biden, the recent rulings by several federal courts that this statute is unconstitutional, and the facts that he did not violate that law, and we plan to demonstrate all of that in court.

Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, speaks to guests during the White House Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn of the White House, April 18, 2022, in Washington.

What happened with Hunter Biden's plea deal?

Biden was set to plead guilty in July to two misdemeanor charges for not paying his taxes in 2017 and 2018, which he has since paid. He was also set to enter a pretrial program for a gun charge, which would have resulted in the charge being dropped if he complied with programs requirements.

But U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika refused to accept the plea agreement because of disputes between Bidens lawyers and federal prosecutors about the terms.

The Gun Control Act prohibits drug users from possessing firearms. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives ruled the ban applies to "a conviction for use or possession of a controlled substance within the past year."

When Biden filled out a federal form when he bought the handgun, he replied no to a question of whether he was an unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance."

By his own account in his memoir, Beautiful Things, Biden battled drug addiction and for periods during 2018 smoked crack every 15 minutes.

Prosecutors have wide discretion to defer prosecution or seek diversion programs and often do so in cases like Biden's in which the offender has no criminal record, the charges are minor and the case does not involve aggravating circumstances such as use of the firearm in a criminal act, according to Cheryl Bader, a former federal prosecutor who runs the Criminal Defense Clinic at Fordham Law.

Legal expert: Gun charges 'raw deal'

Legal experts called the three charges harsh compared with the plea agreement, which could have potentially dismissed a single charge if Hunter Biden complied with the requirements.

Harry Litman, a former U.S. attorney who is now a law professor at UCLA, said the Justice Department rarely brings such gun charges.

The 3 false statement charges against Hunter Biden are a raw deal, Litman said in a post on X, the site formerly known as Twitter. There appears to be nothing that happened since the plea deal unraveled (through no fault of Biden) other than Republican ignorant potshots.

Andrew Weissmann, a former federal prosecutor and general counsel at the FBI, called Weiss erratic for veering from a deferred prosecution to pursuing three legally and factually tenuous charges.

The new gun charges display the same lack of judgment, Weissmann said in a post on X. Expect lots of defense challenges.

House GOP questions 'sweetheart deal' in plea agreement

Three House Republican chairmen have sent a letter to Bidens lawyers, Christopher Clark and Abbe Lowell, asking for documents related to the plea deal. Reps. Jim Jordan of Ohio, head of the Judiciary Committee; James Comer of Kentucky, head of the Oversight and Accountability Committee; and Jason Smith of Missouri, head of the Ways and Means Committee, seek documents described in articles in The New York Times and Politico about how the deal fell apart.

The Justice Departments sweetheart deal fell apart after a federal judge refused to rubber-stamp it, Comer said Thursday.

Lowell has called the request further evidence of interfering with the investigation.

These Republican chairmen continue to abuse their power to push a purely partisan attack on the Biden administration and family," Lowell said. " This latest demand is further proof of their continued and improper interference with the Justice Departments investigation, which remains ongoing and in which Congress has no legitimate role.

Under the part of the plea agreement for not paying taxes, prosecutors said Hunter Biden took in $2.4 million in income in 2017 and $2.1 million in 2018 through Ukrainian energy firm Burisma, a Chinese development firm, as well as domestic business interests and legal services.

Leo Wise, an assistant U.S. attorney, said an accountant prepared Biden's taxes both of those years, but his corporate and personal taxes were not paid. During this period, Hunter Biden made large cash withdrawals and covered other expenses like car payments on a Porsche, Wise said.

Biden told the court a "third party" paid the back taxes along with interest and fees pursuant to a personal loan he had not begun to repay in July.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Hunter Biden indicted on federal gun charges
(Bloomberg) -- President Joe Biden s son Hunter was indicted on federal charges that he purchased a firearm without disclosing that he was unlawfully using drugs, thrusting his legal problems further into the spotlight as the president ramps up his re-election campaign.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The charges Thursday by Special Counsel David Weiss follow the collapse of a deal under which Hunter Biden agreed to plead guilty to two misdemeanor tax crimes and to acknowledge a firearms violation without a conviction. But the deal, which involved no jail time, imploded in July when a federal judge questioned its terms and refused to sign off on it.

The gun charges represent the least of Bidens legal jeopardy, as Weiss has signaled he is considering bringing charges for the presidents sons alleged failure to report millions of dollars in income, including from China and Ukraine. A person familiar with the matter said the investigation into Biden is ongoing and additional charges are possible. House Republicans have also launched an impeachment inquiry of Joe Biden based on suspicions that the president somehow benefited from his sons overseas business activities.

No date has yet been set for Hunter Biden to appear in court.

Abbe Lowell, a lawyer for Hunter Biden, said in a statement that he believed the gun law under which his client was being charged was unconstitutional. Recent federal appeals court rulings have held that drug users cant be barred from owning firearms. Lowell accused Weiss of bowing to Republican demands.

Hunter Biden possessing an unloaded gun for 11 days was not a threat to public safety, but a prosecutor, with all the power imaginable, bending to political pressure presents a grave threat to our system of justice, Lowell said.

Read More: Hunter Biden Plea Deal in Limbo After Judge Questions Terms

Prosecutors faced a deadline to file charges related to the firearm offenses because they occurred five years ago, meaning the statute of limitations was about to expire. The gun case, which was filed in federal court in Delaware, will be overseen by US District Judge Maryellen Noreika, whose questioning of the terms of the earlier plea deal led to its collapse in July. Tax charges would likely be brought in Washington or California.

Biden is charged with three counts related to his purchase of a Colt Cobra snub-nosed .38 caliber revolver in October 2018, while allegedly falsely stating on a form he was not an unlawful user of, and addicted to, any stimulant, narcotic drug, and any other controlled substance. Biden has said that, during that period, he was in the grip of a well-documented and long-standing struggle with substance abuse.

Two of the counts carry maximum sentences of 10 years in prison. The third count is punishable by up to five years in prison. But its rare for judges to hand down maximum sentences, and convicted defendants are often allowed to serve prison terms for different counts concurrently.

The indictment means Biden could go on trial in the heat of next years presidential race, though he may also try to negotiate a fresh plea agreement.

Read More: McCarthy Launches Biden Impeachment Probe, Alleging Corruption

Any charges against Biden are almost certain to be used as a weapon by Donald Trump and conservatives in his bid to regain the White House. House Republicans have opened an impeachment inquiry against Joe Biden based in large part on Hunters business dealings.

Under his previous plea deal, Biden would have admitted to not paying income tax for 2017 and 2018, but he wouldnt have been charged with a gun offense at all. In an exhibit attached to the plea agreement, Biden said he made more than $4 million in those two years from sources including a Ukrainian energy company and a Chinese private equity firm.

Republicans, who attacked that agreement as a sweetheart deal, have seized upon Bidens millions to argue his father must have benefited as well. The White House and leading Democrats have denied wrongdoing by the president.

Read More: Hunter Biden Made Over $4 Million Amid Nonstop Debauchery

The indictment follows Weisss appointment as a special counsel in August, a move intended to remove him from day-to-day oversight by Biden administration officials. Attorney General Merrick Garland had said the extraordinary circumstances of the investigation warranted the move.

The Department of Justice and the White House both declined to comment on Thursday.

Trump, the front-runner for the Republican nomination, has been indicted on 91 counts in four criminal cases, including for allegedly conspiring to overturn the 2020 election and mishandling classified documents.

--With assistance from Patricia Hurtado and Erik Larson.

(Updates with more details about the ongoing investigation.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
A 16-year-old boy is in good condition after being shot in the leg Wednesday evening in West Pullman, Chicago police said.

Police said the boy was injured around 6:40 p.m. in the 500 block of West 118th Street and taken to Christ Hospital, where he is recovering.

Advertisement

No suspects are in custody, and police said detectives are investigating.
President Joe Biden s son, Hunter Biden , plans to plead not guilty to federal gun charges, his attorney stated in a Tuesday filing, according to The New York Times.

Last week, Hunter Biden was indicted on three counts related to possessing a firearm while under the influence of narcotics. He is requesting to hold his initial court hearing over video instead of in person, per the filing.

Mr. Biden also will enter a plea of not guilty, and there is no reason why he cannot utter those two words by videoconference, Bidens lawyer Abbe Lowell said in a letter to Judge Christopher J. Burke.

The first two counts in the indictment allege that on Oct. 12, 2018, Biden provided a written statement on Form 4473 certifying he was not an unlawful user of, and addicted to, any stimulant, narcotic drug, and any other controlled substance, when in fact, as he knew, that statement was false and fictitious.

A third count accused Biden of unlawfully possessing a firearm between October 12, 2018, through on or about October 23, 2018, while knowing that he was an unlawful user of and addicted to any stimulant, narcotic drug, and any other controlled substance.

Earlier this month, Special Counsel David Weiss indicated that he was preparing to indict Biden on charges related to unlawful gun possession. Weiss was appointed special counsel after a D.C. judge rejected a plea deal that would have allowed Biden to plead guilty to misdemeanor charges related to his taxes and the possession of the weapon.

In 2018, the Justice Department opened an investigation into Hunter Bidens finances amid allegations of money laundering. The FBI was ultimately unable to find evidence indicating Biden had engaged in money laundering, and the case transitioned into an investigation of Bidens tax history. Further charges related to Bidens taxes remain a possibility.

Hunter Biden has long been a focus of Republican efforts to dig up dirt on President Biden. Three separate congressional committees are currently investigating the younger Biden in the hopes of proving allegations of corruption against the president. Both the House Judiciary and House Ways and Means Committee alleged that the Biden administration had improperly interfered with the IRS and Justice Departments investigation into Hunter Biden in order to secure him a favorable plea deal.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy previously announced that he would move to open an impeachment inquiry into President Biden. The inquiry is set to be led by James Comer (R-Ky.) chair of the House Oversight Committee, who has been investigating Hunter Bidens foreign business dealings since 2022.

This article was updated at 7:54 p.m. on Sept. 19 to include Hunter Bidens plan to plead not guilty.

More from Rolling Stone

Best of Rolling Stone

Click here to read the full article.
Federal prosecutors on Thursday indicted Hunter Biden on gun charges after a plea deal with the presidents son fell apart in July. His lawyer said special counsel David Weiss was bending to political pressure by filing the indictment.

A court filing in the US district court in Delaware alleged Biden, 53, illegally obtained and possessed a Colt revolver in October 2018 after falsely declaring that he was not a user of, or addicted to, narcotic drugs.

Related: Hunter Biden: the moments that pushed presidents son into spotlight

The surprise indictment filed on Thursday was brought by Weiss, a Donald Trump appointee as US attorney for Delaware, who was named by the attorney general, Merrick Garland, as a special counsel last month after the collapse of the plea deal that included two misdemeanor tax charges.

This is the first time the son of a sitting US president has been indicted on federal criminal charges. He faces up to 10 years in prison on each of two counts of making false statements to a Delaware gun dealer who sold him the gun, and five for possessing it as someone with drug addiction.

It also has significant political implications following the announcement on Tuesday by House speaker Kevin McCarthy that Republicans were to pursue an impeachment inquiry into Joe Biden for business dealings involving his son.

Three House committees will be seeking bank papers and other documents attempting to prove thus far unsubstantiated claims the president illegally profited from the business relationship with his son.

Abbe Lowell, Hunter Bidens lawyer, condemned the indictment as politically motivated. As expected, prosecutors filed charges today that they deemed were not warranted just six weeks ago following a five-year investigation into this case, he said in a statement.

The evidence in this matter has not changed in the last six weeks, but the law has, and so has Maga [Make America great again] Republicans improper and partisan interference in this process.

Hunter Biden possessing an unloaded gun for 11 days was not a threat to public safety, but a prosecutor, with all the power imaginable, bending to political pressure, presents a grave threat to our system of justice.

Lowell was referring to the striking down by a federal appeals court in New Orleans last month of a law denying weapons to sober citizens based on past drug usage. The decision affects only Louisiana, Texas and Mississippi, but Bidens lawyers could choose to test it in Delaware.

James Comer, the Republican chair of the House oversight committee, reportedly called the development a small start, according to CNN. Previously, the Kentucky congressman said the failed plea agreement, which would have allowed Biden to avoid prison time, was a sweetheart deal that belongs in the trash.

Democrats, meanwhile, insist the impeachment inquiry is a distraction by McCarthy to appease hardliners in his party amid a fight over government funding. The best I can tell, they want to impeach me because they want to shut down the government, Joe Biden said on Wednesday.

Bidens supporters have also criticized what they see as a heavy-handed political prosecution of a person with no previous criminal record.

Bidens lawyers said last month they expected that felony gun charges would be dropped in exchange for him abiding by the terms of a diversion agreement, which they considered separate to the tax issues and therefore still valid.

The White House, in keeping with its longtime stance, referred reporters questions to the Department of Justice, and Hunter Bidens private lawyers.

Weiss led a five-year investigation into Biden before being named special counsel, and presented a plea deal to end the case to the US district judge Maryellen Noreika, another Trump appointee, in July. It included two years of probation in exchange for Biden pleading guilty to tax evasion, and pre-trial diversion for the weapons charges.

But Noreika said at a 27 July plea hearing she was concerned about her role in enforcing the terms of the agreement. Biden changed his plea to not guilty and Noreika gave the parties 30 days to renegotiate.

It was not immediately clear on Thursday what would happen to the tax evasion charges against Biden. Weiss reported to the court that with no plea agreement in place, any trial might have to be switched to Washington DC or California, where Biden lives, and where the tax offenses allegedly took place.

Weiss also hinted that additional charges could yet be leveled.

According to court papers, Hunter Biden admitted to being addicted to alcohol and drugs, but got sober in May of 2019 and paid off about $2m in back taxes, with the help of an unspecified third party, over the next five months.

Im 100% certain that at the end of the investigation I will be cleared of any wrongdoing, he told CBS News in a May 2021 interview.

Court filings showed that a summons has been issued to Biden on the new gun charges, but no date has yet been set for a hearing.
Prosecutors in Delaware brought three gun-related charges against Hunter Biden on Thursday, with a grand jury indicting the presidents son after special counsel David Weiss said he would pursue charges following the evaporation of a plea deal.

The court filings detail charges Hunter Biden would have entered a diversion program for under the failed plea agreement, charging him with failing to disclose drug use when seeking to buy a weapon  resulting in two charges  as well as for unlawful possession of a firearm while addicted to a controlled substance.

The most serious charges carry up to 10 years in prison and up to $250,000 in fines.

The indictment does not list any tax crimes  a matter that also would have been covered by the agreement that would have had Biden plead guilty to two charges of willful failure to pay taxes.

Weiss, who is also the U.S. attorney for Delaware, was elevated to special counsel status in August, shortly after discussion around the plea agreement broke down, signaling he may instead seek to bring charges outside the state.

Weiss suggested those charges could come in D.C. or California  two venues where IRS agents who spoke to Congress about the investigation claimed they found the stronger evidence of tax crimes.

The two whistleblowers also claimed the investigation was slow-walked by the Justice Department  a key thread Republicans are investigating in their broader impeachment inquiry.

Weiss indicated this month he would bring an indictment against Biden before the end of September.

In the same round of filings, Bidens attorneys said their client was still abiding by the terms of the diversion agreement surrounding the gun charge, signaling they expected that provision to remain in effect.

READ: Hunter Biden indictment

Bidens attorney, Abbe Lowell, did not immediately respond to a request for comment, while the White House referred questions to the Department of Justice.

The charges come the same week that House Republicans kicked off an impeachment inquiry into President Biden, who they allege improperly interfered in Ukraine to benefit his son when he served on the board of energy company Burisma.

The White House has denied any wrongdoing, including an unproven allegation from Republicans that the president may have accepted a bribe from a Ukrainian oligarch.

Some Democrats have sought to distance Hunter Bidens legal woes from the challenges facing the president.

The evidence suggests Hunter Biden is guilty of unethical and/or illegal behavior. The evidence suggests Joe Biden is guilty of absolutely nothing more than being a father, Rep. Dean Philips (D-Minn.) wrote in a Tuesday post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Thursdays indictment alleges that Hunter Biden lied on a form when seeking to purchase a Colt Cobra 38SPL, denying any drug use.

Robert Hunter Biden certified on the Form 4473 that he was not an unlawful user of, an addicted to, any stimulant, narcotic drug, and any other controlled substance, when in fact, as he knew, that statement was false and fictitious, prosecutors wrote in the filing.

Hunter Biden has acknowledged his struggles with addiction, including in a memoir where he said he was at one point using crack cocaine daily.

President Biden has also spoken publicly about his sons addiction, including in response to attacks from Republicans like former President Trump, who brought the issue up at a 2020 debate.

My son, like a lot of people, like a lot of people you know at home, had a drug problem, President Biden said at the time. Hes overtaken it, hes fixed it, hes worked on it, and Im proud of him.

Updated at 3:16 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Prosecutors in Delaware brought three gun-related charges against Hunter Biden on Thursday, with a grand jury indicting the presidents son after special counsel David Weiss said he would pursue charges following the evaporation of a plea deal.

The court filings detail charges Hunter Biden would have entered a diversion program for under the failed plea agreement, charging him with failing to disclose drug use when seeking to buy a weapon  resulting in two charges  as well as for unlawful possession of a firearm while addicted to a controlled substance.

The most serious charges carry up to 10 years in prison and up to $250,000 in fines.

The indictment does not list any tax crimes  a matter that also would have been covered by the agreement that would have had Biden plead guilty to two charges of willful failure to pay taxes.

Weiss, who is also the U.S. attorney for Delaware, was elevated to special counsel status in August, shortly after discussion around the plea agreement broke down, signaling he may instead seek to bring charges outside the state.

Weiss suggested those charges could come in D.C. or California  two venues where IRS agents who spoke to Congress about the investigation claimed they found the stronger evidence of tax crimes.

The two whistleblowers also claimed the investigation was slow-walked by the Justice Department  a key thread Republicans are investigating in their broader impeachment inquiry.

Weiss indicated this month he would bring an indictment against Biden before the end of September.

In the same round of filings, Bidens attorneys said their client was still abiding by the terms of the diversion agreement surrounding the gun charge, signaling they expected that provision to remain in effect.

READ: Hunter Biden indictment

Bidens attorney, Abbe Lowell, did not immediately respond to a request for comment, while the White House referred questions to the Department of Justice.

The charges come the same week that House Republicans kicked off an impeachment inquiry into President Biden, who they allege improperly interfered in Ukraine to benefit his son when he served on the board of energy company Burisma.

The White House has denied any wrongdoing, including an unproven allegation from Republicans that the president may have accepted a bribe from a Ukrainian oligarch.

Some Democrats have sought to distance Hunter Bidens legal woes from the challenges facing the president.

The evidence suggests Hunter Biden is guilty of unethical and/or illegal behavior. The evidence suggests Joe Biden is guilty of absolutely nothing more than being a father, Rep. Dean Philips (D-Minn.) wrote in a Tuesday post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Thursdays indictment alleges that Hunter Biden lied on a form when seeking to purchase a Colt Cobra 38SPL, denying any drug use.

Robert Hunter Biden certified on the Form 4473 that he was not an unlawful user of, an addicted to, any stimulant, narcotic drug, and any other controlled substance, when in fact, as he knew, that statement was false and fictitious, prosecutors wrote in the filing.

Hunter Biden has acknowledged his struggles with addiction, including in a memoir where he said he was at one point using crack cocaine daily.

President Biden has also spoken publicly about his sons addiction, including in response to attacks from Republicans like former President Trump, who brought the issue up at a 2020 debate.

My son, like a lot of people, like a lot of people you know at home, had a drug problem, President Biden said at the time. Hes overtaken it, hes fixed it, hes worked on it, and Im proud of him.

Updated at 3:16 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, was finally indicted by the feds on Thursday on three criminal counts of illegally obtaining a handgun by lying about his illicit drug use when he filled out paperwork to buy a .38 Special revolver.

The long-awaited move came after plea negotiations broke down in spectacular fashion during a court hearing in July, when prosecutors announced they werent completely dropping an overarching investigation and irked defense lawyers blurted out that the deal was off. The plea deal, if it had gone ahead, would have allowed Biden to plead guilty to a pair of misdemeanor tax offenses in exchange for avoiding prosecution on the gun crimes. Now, the younger Biden is staring down a criminal trial in federal court.

Thursdays four-page indictment was a bare-bones court document, merely repeating what the public already knows: Buying from a licensed gun shop requires filling out a government form that affirms the person isnt a criminal or engaged in certain illegal activitysomething Biden appears to have flagrantly violated.

In his memoir, Beautiful Things, the presidents son described his battles with addiction and the way he would smoke crack every 15 minutes. Notably, that time period overlapped with his decision to purchase the Colt Cobra revolver on Oct. 12, 2018.

Hunter Bidens Case Highlights Gray Area of U.S. Gun Laws

Robert Hunter Biden, the indictment says, provided a written statement on Form 4473 certifying he was not an unlawful user of, and addicted to, any stimulant, narcotic drug, and any other controlled substance, when in fact, as he knew, that statement was false and fictitious.

For years, Republicans have been clamoring for the Department of Justice to pursue criminal charges against Biden and his familyalleging vast conspiracies that purport to tie the familys finances with Chinese interests and call into question whether members have improperly used proximity to power to expand their wealth and influence. However, particular attention has been paid to the presidents only living son, Hunter, who became a wealthy attorney and snagged lucrative roles that dealt with international business.

Conservatives criticized how the DOJ spent years investigating the younger Biden without charging him, and earlier this year, the feds seemed to inch forward with a muted criminal case that went after him for dodging taxes while simultaneously letting him off on the gun crimes. But after negotiations broke down, Attorney General Merrick Garland elevated Delawares U.S. Attorney David Weiss, who was already overseeing the investigation, to special counsel status that afforded him more independence.

Heres Why Hunter Bidens Plea Deal Collapsed

The DOJs decision to charge Biden now in a separate case for the gun crimes shows that investigators are taking a more hardlined approachbut one that isnt necessarily out of character.

The FBI regularly investigates violations of 18 U.S. Code  922, which restricts how someone may buy or sell firearms. Its the go-to statute for prosecutors seeking to imprison felons who manage to acquire guns after serving time in prison, straw purchasers who buy a gun with the specific intent to sell it to another person, and other people who arent allowed to acquire them. In that sense, the case is a run-of-the-mill prosecutionand the reason why so many criticized the DOJ for not bringing the case against the presidents son earlier.

However, the particular charge levied against Biden is one thats rarely used as a standalone case. Federal agents tend to see the charge, 922(g)(3), as a tool to squeeze information from a suspect as part of a much larger drug trafficking or gang investigation. Former cops told The Daily Beast that its not prosecuted often for a few reasons: first, so many Americans regularly use illegal drugs like cannabis that uniform enforcement is impossible and too taxing on resources. But second, chasing after casual drug users who buy weapons isnt a priority until those people commit more serious, violent crimes.

On the gun charges alone, Biden now faces fines and up to 10 years in prison.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now.

Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now.
Hunter Biden was indicted on gun charges by a federal grand jury Thursday, less than two months after an earlier plea agreement hed reached with prosecutors on tax and gun charges fell apart.

Whats in the indictment?

According to the indictment filed by special counsel David Weiss in U.S. District Court in Delaware, President Bidens son has been charged with three criminal counts: two related to false statements he allegedly made while purchasing the firearm and a third for illegal possession of a firearm while addicted to drugs.

The three charges carry a combined maximum prison sentence of 25 years.

Read more from Yahoo News: Poll finds Americans more concerned with Trump charges than Hunter Biden allegations

Prosecutors allege that on or about Oct. 12, 2018, Hunter Biden knowingly deceived a firearms dealer in Delaware while buying a Colt Cobra 38SPL revolver by falsely stating on a federal firearms application that he was not addicted to any narcotics.

The 53-year-old Biden has since acknowledged he was a drug addict at the time.

The younger Biden allegedly certified on the form that "he was not an unlawful user of, and addicted to, any stimulant, narcotic drug, and any other controlled substance, when in fact, as he knew, that statement was false and fictitious," the indictment reads.

What are Hunter Bidens other legal troubles?

Hunter Biden plea deal fell through after the judge expressed concerns about its validity. (Celal Gunes/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

The Justice Department has spent years investigating Hunter Biden's business dealings and drug use. In June, he struck a deal with the U.S. Attorney's Office in Delaware, agreeing to plead guilty to a pair of tax-related misdemeanors in a deal that would have required him to acknowledge his failure to pay income taxes in 2017 and 2018 in exchange for probation.

Read more on Yahoo News: Timeline: Hunter Biden under legal, political scrutiny, via ABC News

But that deal fell apart during a court hearing in July after U.S. Judge Maryellen Noreika expressed concern over the structure of the agreement, which Republican critics had called a so-called sweetheart deal for the president's son. Weiss was appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland last month to lead the Hunter Biden probe.

What does this mean for the GOPs impeachment efforts?

Hunter Biden and President Biden arrive at Fort McNair in Washington, D.C., on June 25. (Andrew Harnik/AP)

Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced this week that the House would begin an impeachment inquiry into President Biden over alleged ties to his sons business dealings. While Republicans have consistently said the president is tied to Hunters entanglements with foreign governments, they have yet to provide any evidence to support this. Former President Donald Trump, facing a litany of his own legal issues, has privately encouraged the inquiry.

The speaker has cited a culture of corruption around the presidents family, but the only examples of potential corruption have been tied to his son. Republicans have proven that the elder Biden communicated with his son and that he attended two dinners in 2014 and 2015 with foreign individuals who had paid the younger Biden millions, but not that business was discussed or promises made during the meals.

Read more on Yahoo News: As House launches a Biden impeachment probe, heres what to watch, via Bloomberg

McCarthy has a tenuous hold over his caucus, only earning the leadership position after a historic 15 votes. Many of the Houses most conservative members have pushed McCarthy to launch the impeachment inquiry, which comes as Congress is attempting to pass funding measures to stop the federal government from shutting down at the end of the month.

The White House has been preparing for the impeachment inquiry since Republicans won back control of the House in November, with press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre calling it a political stunt and saying that Republicans should work with us on legitimate issues  things that actually matter to the American people.

Read more on Yahoo News: Threats mount against prosecutors, FBI agents working on Hunter Biden probe, via NBC News

Some Democrats have suggested that the impeachment attempt will galvanize the party around the president, who has tepid approval ratings ahead of next years election.

Go ahead, do it. I dare you, Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., told reporters last week. "Your man has what, three or four indictments now? Trump has a mug shot, and hes been impeached twice. Sometimes you just gotta call their bulls***.

Read the full indictment below.

This embedded content is not available in your region.
Hunter Biden , the presidents son, sued a former Trump White House aide Wednesday, alleging he violated state and federal data laws in connection with the online publication of laptop content attributed to him.

In a lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court for Central California, Biden's lawyers said Garrett Ziegler, his nonprofit group, Marco Polo, and 10 unidentified people violated state and federal laws about computer fraud and data access. Marco Polo describes itself as a nonprofit research group that exposes corruption.

"Although the precise manner by which Defendant Ziegler obtained Plaintiffs data remains unclear, there is no dispute that Defendants have, to at least some extent, accessed, tampered with, manipulated, altered, copied and damaged Plaintiffs data, and that their actions are illegal, unauthorized, and without Plaintiffs consent," they wrote.

Biden's lawyers alleged that the defendants violated a federal statute that protects against the intentional, unauthorized access to a computer and acquiring financial records from a financial institution or card issuer.

In February, Bidens lawyers sought a criminal probe into the laptop leak and asked the IRS to review Marco Polos tax-exempt status, arguing that Ziegler obtained and published on his website five Suspicious Activity Reports, or SARs, from JPMorgan Chase that involve or are related to Biden.

Wednesday's lawsuit alleges that Ziegler created an online searchable database of 128,000 emails attributed to Biden, and it refers to public comments Ziegler has made claiming to have scraped data from Biden's laptop as the basis for a document he titled "Report on the Biden Laptop," published in October.

Biden's lawsuit seeks an injunction that would bar Ziegler and others from accessing or tampering with his data, as well as general and punitive damages to be proven at trial and attorneys fees and costs.

Ziegler responded on Wednesday, saying he had not been served with a lawsuit.

I nor the nonprofit, Marco Polo, have been served with any lawsuit, he said in a statement, while adding that "numerous state and federal laws and regulations ... protect authors like me and the publishing that Marco Polo does."

Ziegler, who worked on trade policy in the White House under Trump adviser Peter Navarro, also questioned the timing of the lawsuit, "one day after an Impeachment inquiry into his father was announced.

Lawyers for Biden did not immediately respond to a request for comment Wednesday.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., said Tuesday that he would direct three House committees to open an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden amid Republican-led investigations into the president and his son.

Abbe Lowell, an attorney for Hunter Biden, criticized the impeachment inquiry Tuesday, saying it as based on repackaged, inaccurate conspiracies about Hunter Biden and his legitimate business activities.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
The husband of Rep. Mary Peltola , D-Alaska, died Wednesday in what her office said in a statement was a plane accident in Alaska.

We are devastated to share that Marys husband, Eugene Peltola Jr.,  Buzzy to all of us who knew and loved him  passed away earlier this morning following a plane accident in Alaska, Peltolas chief of staff, Anton McParland, said in the statement that was shared on X, formerly Twitter.

He was one of those people that was obnoxiously good at everything. He had a delightful sense of humor that lightened the darkest moments. He was definitely the cook in the family.

He was completely devoted to his parents, kids, siblings, extended family and friends  and he simply adored Mary. We are heartbroken for the familys loss.

McParland also said Peltola will go home to Alaska to be with her family and asked the public for privacy.

Reuters reported the accident was a plane crash on Sept. 12. The Federal Aviation Administration said the crashed happened shortly after the plane took off near St. Mary's, Alaska, at about 8:45 p.m. local time, the news agency reported. Peltola was piloting the singe-engine Piper aircraft and was the only person on board.

TODAY.com has not confirmed those details.

St. Mary's is in western Alaska, about a two-hour flight from Anchorage.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-New York, grieved Peltolas death in a statement.

Rep. Mary Peltola (D-Alaska) takes part in her ceremonial swearing-in alongside family members at the U.S. Capitol Sept. 13, 2022. (Francis Chung / E&E News/POLITICO via AP file)

The entire House Democratic Caucus is mourning the loss of Buzzy and we are lifting Mary and the Peltola family up in prayer. We will be there for her in any way she needs during this unimaginable time of tragedy, he said in a statement.

Mary Peltola, 50, won a seat in Congress in November 2022, defeating former Alaska Governor and 2008 vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin and Nick Bagich III. That win came after Peltola became the first Alaska Native in Congress when she won a special election to replace Republican Don Young after he died.

Multiple politicians have died in plane crashes in Alaska. In 1972, House Majority Leader Thomas Hale Boggs Sr., D-Louisiana., disappeared on a flight from Anchorage to Juneau. Also onboard was Bagichs grandfather, Rep. Nick Begich, D-Alaska. The plane and the passengers remains were never found.

In 2010, former Alaska Senator Ted Stevens and four others died in a crash, while four others survived.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
The Scoop

As many as 15 to 20 staff members are being laid off at the Center for Antiracist Research at Boston University, which is led by prominent activist and scholar Ibram X. Kendi, according to a person familiar with the situation.

The person said the money that has been used to employ the staff members will be redirected to provide funding to visiting scholars who are already employed. The layoffs take effect later this year.

In a statement, BU spokesman Colin Riley confirmed the layoffs. He said the center is evolving to a fellowship model and would offer details on this new direction soon.

Kendi will remain the research centers director. Riley said BU and the center are committed to working with and supporting affected employees as they look for their next opportunities.

BU and Kendi founded the center in 2020 amid widespread protests over police brutality and a national reckoning over issues of race. The center grew to include multiple offices that spanned policy and data research, and an archived version of the centers website from July listed 45 employees.

Those staff pages were no longer active Thursday.

Know More

BU announced that Kendi was joining the faculty and launching the center in June 2020, just as protests began sweeping the nation following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

The BU center was pitched as a novel and progressive way for the university to contribute to ongoing conversations around race in America. It has researched antiracist policies, tracked data related to racial disparities in America, and analyzed racial justice advocacy efforts. Its website describes the center as a place where academic research meets antiracist action.

The center also collaborated with The Boston Globes opinion section to launch The Emancipator, a digital racial justice-focused publication, in 2021. The site has published independently of the Globe since the spring. It will continue to publish and was not affected by the layoffs, Riley said.

Kendi has been known for years as a leading scholar in the field of antiracism. In his 2019 book , Kendi wrote: The only way to undo racism is to consistently identify and describe it  and then dismantle it.

His books jumped onto bestseller lists in 2020, and he was on Times list of 100 Most Influential People of 2020. Since then, the issue became a central culture war topic, and some parents and officials in multiple states have tried to ban some of his books from school libraries as part of a fight against critical race theory.

Kendi previously taught at American University and the University of Florida.
Andrew "AJ" Freund plays with toy cars at a family event in McHenry County. AJ was placed in a foster home at birth because he was born with drugs in his system, but his parents worked to regain custody. (Family photo)

Questioning by defense attorneys Wednesday led to suggestions that former child welfare workers did more to investigate an abuse allegation involving 5-year-old AJ Freund than was reflected in their reports.

The cross-examination challenged prosecutors narrative that former Department of Children and Family Services investigator Carlos Acosta and his supervisor, Andrew Polovin, failed to prevent AJs death by abuse from his mother in 2019.

Advertisement

Acosta and Polovin each are charged with child endangerment and reckless conduct, relating to their investigation of an incident that occurred about four months before AJ was fatally beaten at his home in Crystal Lake.

AJ died in April 2019 after being beaten and forced into a cold shower by his mother, JoAnn Cunningham. She is serving 35 years in prison for his murder. AJs father, Andrew Freund Sr., is serving 30 years for burying AJ in a field and concealing his death.

Advertisement

In December 2018, police called DCFS to investigate a large bruise on AJs hip and filthy conditions in his house, including urine and feces on the floor. Police took AJ and his 3-year-old brother into protective custody, but Acosta released them. He and Polovin closed the case as unfounded on Jan. 4, 2019.

Under questioning from defense attorney Rebecca Lee, the defendants former regional supervisor, Carol Ruzicka, now retired, acknowledged that the case file referenced police and medical reports detailing prior incidents involving Cunningham, despite prior testimony that the defendants failed to document such issues.

Ruzicka also acknowledged that DCFS was never humming on all cylinders and was subject to a court order meant to limit worker caseloads. DCFS often has exceeded those limits, and a state audit found 102 deaths of children who had prior DCFS contact from 2015 to 2017  yet Lee said this was the only prosecution of such a case that she knew of.

At times, the two defense teams have tried to shift part of the blame to the other defendant.

Defense attorney Jamie Wombacher, from left, Carlos Acosta, and defense attorney Rebecca Lee talk during the trial of former Illinois Department of Children and Family Services employees Acosta and Andrew Polovin, before Lake County Judge George Strickland on Sept. 11, 2023, at the McHenry County Courthouse. (Gregory Shaver/Northwest Herald)

Questioned by Polovins attorney, Matthew McQuaid, Ruzicka acknowledged that Polovin gave extensive written directions to Acosta on how to handle the case, such as questioning how AJ actually got hurt and how the parents disciplined him, to get photos, police reports and a medical exam, assess any health or safety hazards and potentially refer for services.

Polovin also noted two prior abuse investigations he handled involving AJ, when AJ was born with heroin in his system and was put in foster care, and in March 2018, when Cunningham was found with fresh heroin needle marks on her arms, feet and neck.

Ruzicka said Polovin had a reputation and history of closing cases hastily without being thorough, and she counseled him about it  but when asked if the defendants were lazy, Ruzicka replied, Oh, no.

She also conceded that AJs bruise was not deemed a serious DCFS case in comparison with cases involving broken bones, burns or internal injuries, and that the decision of how to handle the case was a judgment call.

Advertisement

Afternoon Briefing Weekdays 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 >

DCFS could take custody of a child only when there was an urgent or immediate threat, and has a goal of keeping families together when its safe to do so.

The McHenry County states attorneys office paid Ruzicka almost $8,000, at $200 per hour, for her previous work on the case, and she planned to bill the office for her time testifying.

Also on Wednesday, a doctor who specializes in child abuse testified that he would be concerned by photos of bruises on AJs body. The presence of multiple bruises and scratches near both his eyes, nose and lips and above his hip were concerning, said Dr. Raymond Davis of the Medical Evaluation Response Initiative Team, or MERIT.

The fact that the bruise on AJs hip wrapped around from front to back also suggested potential abuse, Davis said.

MERIT Director Shannon Kruger, a nurse practitioner, also testified that the number, location and types of injuries suggested nonaccidental injuries, unlikely to be caused by a dog, and would have prompted MERIT to see AJ quickly.

An emergency room doctor who examined AJ was alarmed by his bruises and the fact that AJ said, Maybe someone hit me with a belt and Maybe Mommy didnt mean to hurt me. The ER doctor suggested that another physician trained in child abuse look at the case, but that was never done.

Advertisement

The trial was expected to continue through Friday.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has opened an office in Kyiv to strengthen cooperation with Ukrainian authorities and investigate Russian crimes in Ukraine more effectively, Ukraines Prosecutor General's Office press release said on Sept. 14.

... What we see in terms of the partnership of the International Criminal Court with Ukraine, in terms of building partnerships with civil society, with other UN member states, both state and non-state parties to the ICC, is not just a fluke, the report quotes ICC Prosecutor Kareem Khan.

Read also: High probability ICC issues more arrest warrants for Putin and other top Russian officials

It is the dawn of a new era in which we must, and we are, showing perseverance and persistence so that our words are not empty words. They are felt by the victims both in Ukraine, where I am honored to be, and around the world.

Read also: ICC may issue another arrest warrant for Putin  Ukrainian intelligence

Ukrainian Prosecutor General Kostin thanked Khan for the work his team have done to bring those responsible for international crimes to justice. In particular, he noted ICCs arrest warrant for Russian President Putin and Russias children's ombudsperson Maria Lvova-Belova, as well as the fact that the ICC team was already working in the flood-affected areas of Kherson Oblast three days after Moscow blew up the Kakhovka hydroelectric power plant in June.

Read also: UK, Japan, Italy, and Costa Rica call out Russia for targeting ICC judges

The ICC office in Ukraine is the largest outside Hague.

More than 104,000 war crimes have been registered in Ukraine, and the number is increasing daily, the message said.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The International Criminal Courts (ICC) field office has started its work in Kyiv. This is the largest office of the ICC outside The Hague.

Source: press service of the Prosecutor General's Office with reference to a statement by Prosecutor General Andrii Kostin and ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan at a joint press conference

Quote from Kostin: "This is a new chapter of our cooperation. The work of the office will help strengthen the cooperation between Ukraine and the International Criminal Court. It will increase the effectiveness and efficiency of response to the crimes that Russia continues to commit against Ukraine and Ukrainians every day."

Details: The Prosecutor General's Office reported that the ICC field office in Ukraine is the largest representation of the ICC outside The Hague.

Quote from Karim Khan: "I think, what weve seen in terms of the International Criminal Court, the partnership with Ukraine, building partnership with civil society, with other member states of the United Nations, state parties and non-state parties of the ICC, is not a flash in the pan.

This is part of a new dawn in which we have to show, and we are showing so far, stamina, focus to make sure our words are not empty words. They are felt by victims around the world, in Ukraine, where I have the honour of being now of course, but in other parts of the world as well."

Previously: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the opening of the ICC office in Ukraine in March 2023.

Background:

In March, Pre-Trial Chamber II of the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin, suspecting him of illegal deportation of thousands of children from Ukraine.

The issuance of such warrants means that Putin can be arrested if he goes to any member state of the International Criminal Court.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has opened a field office in Kyiv, Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin announced on Sept. 14.

The office has been set up to "increase the effectiveness and efficiency of responding to the crimes that Russia continues to commit against Ukraine and Ukrainians every day," Kostin said.

The office is the largest ICC field office outside of The Hague, according to the Prosecutor General. The court has seven field offices around the world.

Kostin thanked Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the ICC, for the "colossal work" the court carries out to bring criminals to justice.

"We are doing our utmost to ensure that the ICC experts can see the aftermath of the aggressor's crimes with their own eyes and draw their independent conclusions," Kostin said.

"Unlike Russia's criminal regime, Ukraine has nothing to hide," he added.

In March, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, the Russian official overseeing the forced deportations of Ukrainian children to Russia.

The Ukrainian government has identified around 20,000 Ukrainian children who have been forcibly deported from Russian-occupied territories.

The ICC believes that Putin bears individual criminal responsibility as the leader of Russia for the crimes committed against Ukrainian children.

In response, Russia issued an arrest warrant for Khan in May. The court called the measure "unacceptable" and "coercive measures," and said that Russia's actions would not stop it from trying to hold war criminals accountable.

Read also: Stolen generation. Russia systematically abducts children from Ukraine, gives them to Russian families

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Twice each decade, Congress approves a bill to fund and set the policies for the federal agency that oversees the nations air travel. This year, one airport was singled out in a standalone section marked miscellaneous in the Senate version of the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act. Inserted at the tail end of the 461-page document, the clause aimed to reroute flight paths at the Boise Airport.

High-ranking aviation officials in Idaho have since questioned U.S. Sen. Jim Risch s decision to make the late addition to the federal bill in June. The provision would have altered the course of all commercial and military planes as they came and went from the Treasure Valley air hub with the stated goal of reducing aircraft noise. It would have forced pilots to fly through the heart of Meridian toward Nampa before taking off or touching down in Boise. And it would have made violations of those rules a misdemeanor, subject to civil penalties.

Leveraging a federal bill to change the way planes arrive and depart at a U.S. airport is an uncommon approach, according to aviation officials. The process of adjusting such airport operations typically involves lengthy FAA review, including environmental and noise impact studies.

Rischs effort came about after he brought concerns to the city of Boise and the FAA about aircraft noise specifically in the southwestern part of town dating to at least summer 2021, according to emails obtained by the Idaho Statesman through a public records request. When the FAA ultimately balked at any changes following its analysis, Risch went to Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, who incorporated the Idaho senators demands into the bill that governs the FAA.

The unique tactic garnered the attention of at least two local aviation experts with extensive backgrounds in and around Boise and its municipal airport. In emails to the city of Meridian, they each noted that Risch stood to personally benefit by sending the bulk of aircraft noise into the ears of residents elsewhere in the Treasure Valley. One of them argued Risch risked safety and increased travel delays.

The aviation experts separately noted to Meridian officials that Risch lives near the airport, beneath the existing flight paths. In fact, his home sits in Southwest Boise  the only area Risch identified as the source of noise complaints he said hes received, the email records showed.

Risch, Idahos former governor, in an interview with the Statesman denied that aircraft noise at his longtime home inspired him to seek the changes to operations at the Boise Airport in the federal bill. And he already pulled the language from the bill, he pointed out.

Risch said aircraft noise at his property, which hes owned for more than 50 years, isnt a major problem, and hes merely working to address complaints lodged with him.

For me, it hasnt changed that much over the years, Risch said. If this was a big issue with me, Id have had the warpaint on a long time ago.

Yet, according to airport officials, the airport has received no noise complaints from Southwest Boise for at least the past two years  except those voiced by Risch.

An illustration of U.S. Sen. Jim Rischs proposed changes to flight patterns at the Boise Airport in Southwest Boise. He included the language in the Senates version of the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act of 2023. Nicole Blanchard

Risch calls bill an attention-getter

Rischs primary residence sits on a 44-acre ranch 1 1/2 miles west of the Boise Airport as the crow flies. He and his wife, Vicki, moved into the four-bedroom, three-bathroom, 4,915-square-foot home in 1971, before Risch even won his first term serving in the Idaho Statehouse. One of his sons lives in the home on the acre lot next door, and the Risches properties are buffered by open space owned by the Idaho Department of Lands since the late 19th century.

Through the decades, living so close to the airport has had its advantages for Risch, 80, who maintains an active work schedule. When Congress is in session, the top Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee still takes at least a weekly trip back and forth between Boise and Washington, D.C. That equates to no less than 70 flights a year since he joined the Senate in 2009.

Meanwhile, the Boise Airport has operated at its current location since 1938, with military operations on site since the 1940s. United Airlines launched jet service there in 1964, and the airport built a new air traffic control tower in 2013  the citys tallest building at the time. It is plainly visible from Rischs land.

The air traffic control tower at the Boise Airport is visible from U.S. Sen. Jim Rischs family properties on the outskirts of Southwest Boise. Darin Oswald/doswald@idahostatesman.com

Risch said hes received aircraft noise complaints for decades, since his early years as a state senator in the 1970s. They wax and wane, he said, and a lot of it depends on how FAA is operating.

Corey Barton, president of Idahos largest homebuilder, CBH Homes, developed several dozen homes adjacent to Rischs property in the past decade. CBH also is building a new development with more than 100 homes about a half-mile south.

Barton told the Statesman that hes never heard of significant airplane noise issues from residents in Southwest Boise.

It depends on who and where, but that isnt one of the things that theres a complaint out there, Barton said by phone. You can hear them coming in, but theyre not blasting on them.

Nonetheless, aircraft noise complaints have continued to stream into his office, Risch said. Over a two-month period last year, Rischs staff sent emails to the city pinpointing more than a dozen examples of takeoffs and landings deemed problematic, half by A-10C Thunderbolt II military planes housed at Gowen Field Air National Guard Base at the airport, the records showed.

In several instances, the senator highlighted commercial jetliners that swung left shortly after takeoff, connecting with their established flight paths to destination cities in the Western U.S. In one email from June 2022, an image was included of the route taken by an early morning United Airlines flight that ascended over Southwest Boise on its way to Denver.

The senator just brought another flight to my attention  said it flew over his development at 5:15 a.m. and is a classic example of what hes trying to address, Charles Adams, Sen. Jim Rischs legislative director, wrote to Boise city officials.

In an October letter to the senator, the FAA formally rejected Rischs requests to address aircraft noise by altering flight paths. That led him to add the language to the federal bill as an attention-getter, Risch told the Statesman.

We contacted the FAA and said we want to talk because were getting so many complaints, he said. And they were unresponsive to my requests. Thus, the FAA provision.

Senators office declines to provide complaints

The airport takes complaints about aircraft noise within a 3-mile radius, which encompasses Rischs neighborhood. Anyone outside that area is asked to send their concerns directly to the FAA through its online noise portal.

Over the past two years, the airport has fielded 18 noise complaints but none of them from Southwest Boise, Shawna Samuelson, an airport spokesperson, told the Statesman. The two complaints nearest Rischs neighborhood were each 4 miles away, Samuelson confirmed.

Following this years annual Gowen Thunder military airshow the last weekend of August, another 14 noise complaints flooded into the airport, Samuelson said. Once again, none were from Southwest Boise, she said.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds perform a delta burst maneuver at the Gowen Thunder Airshow on Aug. 26 at Gowen Field Air National Guard Base at the Boise Airport. Darin Oswald/doswald@idahostatesman.com

The city occasionally receives complaints from its neighbors in southwest Ada County about aircraft noise, Airport Director Rebecca Hupp wrote in a letter to the FAA in March 2022 requesting review of Boises flight paths, after Risch brought the issue to the city.

Rischs office declined to provide the Statesman with any of the complaints he said he has received about aircraft noise. Marty Boughton, Rischs spokesperson at the time, cited office policy to protect constituents privacy in denying the request.

The policy also includes restricting release of rough dates, general geographic information and a count of the complaints, Boughton said. Members of Congress are not subject to the Freedom of Information Act that requires release of public documents.

The airport last completed a noise study in 2015 and included ways in which it planned to reduce possible aircraft noise for area neighborhoods. The FAA approved the study in August 2016.

Boise residents just north of the airport submitted comments at that time requesting more study to address their growing concerns about noise. They primarily voiced concerns about the militarys plans to transition its fleet of A-10s at Gowen Field to the louder F-35 jets.

In June, the Air Force instead announced that in 2027 it will replace the 18 A-10s in Boise with F-16 Fighting Falcons, which produce fewer decibels than the F-35. Idaho Air National Guard spokesperson Lt. Col. Christopher Borders told the Statesman that the military works to limit potential community impacts when it implements operational changes.

The FAA largely doesnt regulate military operations. The agency otherwise conducts in-depth review and analysis when it considers operational changes at an airport such as those requested by Risch.

An Idaho Air National Guard A-10C Thunderbolt maneuvers through the airspace near the prominent air traffic control tower at the Boise Airport during the Aug. 26 Gowen Thunder Airshow. Darin Oswald/doswald@idahostatesman.com

J.R. Williams, a longtime commercial pilot who keeps a private plane at the Boise Airport, is well-versed in both military and passenger aviation. Williams also commands a unit of the A-10s at Gowen Field as a colonel in the Idaho Air National Guard and was previously an Air Force Thunderbird elite aerial jet pilot for 12 years.

In an email to Meridian Mayor Robert Simison, obtained by the Statesman through a public records request, Williams disputed the intent behind Rischs inclusion of the language in the Senate version of the FAA reauthorization bill. Williams June email was the first time Meridian learned of Rischs proposal, Dave Miles, the mayors chief of staff, told the Statesman by phone. In it, Williams alleged the senator was pursuing the changes at the airport exclusively out of his own self-interest.

Funneling the vast majority of louder/large aircraft over one specific point is anything but noise mitigation, Williams wrote from his personal email account. It may be mitigation for Mr. Risch, as overflight over his house would become a criminal misdemeanor.  Sen. Risch doesnt seem to care about the folks in Meridian, Eagle, Star or Nampa. He only wants jets to stay away from his house.

Williams, a Boise resident, signed the email A frustrated Idahoan. In a follow-up response to the Statesman, Williams reiterated his concerns about the likelihood of Rischs proposal causing flight delays, driving up air travel costs and creating safety issues.

Not only were they unsafe, they were not fully vetted by the FAA and would set a dangerous precedent that would have a detrimental effect on aviation safety, pilots, air traffic controllers and everyone involved in or served by aviation, Williams said by email.

It wasnt the last time Meridian would receive an email about the issue.

Risch phones FAA leader

Before Risch pursued a legislative avenue, the FAA in the fall rejected Rischs suggested changes to operations at the Boise Airport. The FAA letter was obtained by the Statesman through a public records request.

Your primary concern appears to be the point at which aircraft departing (the runway) turn, FAA Northwest Mountain Administrator Grady Stone wrote. Safety and efficiency measures preclude us from accommodating your request.

By May, Risch, undeterred, scheduled a call to discuss his concerns about noise at the Boise Airport with the head of the FAA. He hoped direct contact with the agencys top decision-maker might move the needle, he said.

This is like everything else: Its personality driven, its character driven, Risch said. You can call up and get some bureaucrat on the phone.  People can cooperate or not cooperate.

Billy Nolen, the acting FAA administrator at the time, serving under Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg in President Joe Bidens administration, told the Statesman the call lasted about 30 minutes. It was the only time he remembered ever speaking with Risch.

Nolen sensed Risch was frustrated, he said, and the senator brought up that he lived in the southwest part of Boise near where there were noise issues. Risch didnt explain any other reason he was interested in the changes, Nolen recalled, and also didnt mention others complaints.

He lived in the area where the noise was, Nolen said in a video interview. So Im not here to cast any aspersions on the senators intent. The concern raised was a noise concern, and thats what we discussed.

Nolen, now the chief safety officer at a private aviation firm based in Northern California, has more than 30 years in the industry, including as an Army airplane and helicopter pilot before joining American Airlines as a commercial pilot. Since then, Nolen also has served in aviation safety leadership positions with several air carriers, most recently with Canadas WestJet Airlines.

He reminded Risch that military operations fall outside the FAAs purview and reiterated that the agencys primary concern is safety, which is why it maintains rigorous review processes, Nolen said. After surveying the complaints on record with the FAA for Boise, Nolen told the Statesman, noise just wasnt an issue in that area.

Based on the data that we saw that my team provided me at the time, before the call, was that noise  this doesnt rise to the level of other airports that have more significant noise concerns, Nolen said. My overarching piece was: Safety first; lets use the very structured process.

Another veteran FAA official put it more bluntly.

You could never do this, point the aircraft to one point, said the longtime air traffic controller based out of the Pacific Northwest region, who spoke to the Statesman on condition of anonymity for fear of retaliation. Youre going to run aircraft together. Its just a ridiculous, stupid idea, because they dont know what theyre talking about.

Boise aviation sector universally expressed concern

Bypassing federal bureaucracy was the intent behind adding the language to the bill after the FAA wasnt responsive to his request, Risch told the Statesman.

Cruz inserted the provision into the bill late in the drafting process under the miscellaneous section on behalf of Risch, the Senate committee secretary told the Statesman. The Senate bill was made public in mid-June, just days after the House introduced its version, which didnt have Rischs clause.

Risch said he had discussions about the provision with Cruz and Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Washington, who chairs the Senate transportation committee. Cruzs office did not respond to a Statesman request for comment, and Cantwells office directed the Statesman to the committee secretary.

U.S. Sen. Jim Risch, R-Idaho, at a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on April 26, 2022 in Washington, D.C. Bonnie Cash/Pool/Getty Images

About a week after the bill was introduced in the Senate, Rischs office held a call with Boise Mayor Lauren McLean, the email records showed. In a statement to the Statesman, McLean confirmed shes had conversations with Risch about noise concerns at the airport and his plans to reduce them in Southwest Boise through federal legislation.

Once she saw the proposal, McLean asked the airport to request feedback about it from key stakeholders and share with Rischs office any concerns from the airport, its operators and others, she said.

Were lucky to have an airport that is so easy to fly in and out of, and to access from the city, McLean said. My priority remains maintaining operations at our airport and its key role in economic opportunity while taking all steps possible to mitigate the impact of noise on our residents.

Hupp, the airports director, penned a letter to Risch in mid-July and shared a host of issues the bill language created across the airports commercial airlines, the military and others that represented virtually every segment of the aviation industry, she wrote.

They universally expressed concern regarding the potential for unintended negative consequences, including impacts to safety, efficiency and the environment, Hupp wrote.

She went on to specify the proposals potential to create significant delays for arriving flights, causing excess fuel burn above populated areas while pilots remained in holding patterns awaiting their turn to land. The surveyed group also took issue with an insufficient analysis of the impacts, the undefined enforcement of civil penalties, and the use of confusing, non-standard aviation terms in the bill.

Risch and his staff blamed the lack of clear, technical language on the FAA after the agency was not more active in responding to the senator. The FAA had denied Rischs requests in October.

The reason its worded the way it is, is because we have not heard back from the FAA in time to even make changes, Adams, Rischs legislative director, told the Statesman.

Another Boise aviation expert takes issue with plan

Just days before Hupp sent the letter to Risch, she responded to a set of questions about the bill from the city of Meridian. Miles, the mayors chief of staff, having not heard from Rischs office, mostly sought to understand whether the adjusted flight paths under the proposal would now center above Meridian.

Hupp responded that the airport did not request Rischs changes, and that the airport deferred to the FAA on decisions about air traffic operations. All operators at the airport overwhelmingly opposed Rischs addition to the bill, she said.

The proposed departure procedure redirects all departures over Meridian, which would logically increase the noise impact from departing aircraft, Hupp wrote, confirming that flight paths would have been centered over the fast-growing Boise suburb if the draft bill passed.

A passenger airliner comes in for landing at the Boise Airport. Darin Oswald/doswald@idahostatesman.com

In the meantime, the mayor received another email from a citizen who also took issue with Rischs plan, which the Statesman obtained in a public records request. Andy Coose, who identified himself as a longtime Meridian resident, said he was concerned that the proposal could impact the quality of life and home values in Meridian if it took effect.

For nearly 17 years, Coose also has worked as the Transportation Security Administrations federal security director for Idaho, and previously worked for a decade as a security specialist for the FAA. In his current role, he oversees the security checkpoints at all of Idahos airports, including Boise, and also served on the airports master plan advisory committee through 2019.

Risch intends to reroute aircraft taking off/landing from Boise Airport so that they would overfly neighborhoods in Meridian instead of flying over his property near the airport, Coose wrote from his personal email account. Coose declined to comment to the Statesman through a TSA spokesperson.

The city of Nampa also was not made aware of Rischs proposal ahead of time, Lynsey Johnson, business manager for Nampas small municipal airstrip, told the Statesman.

This could create an increase in noise pollution in the area, she said by email. The additional traffic could also cause issues with aircraft going/coming from the north to both Nampa and Caldwell airports.

Risch said he didnt approach the cities of Meridian and Nampa beforehand because hed never heard of an aircraft noise complaint from either, and didnt believe the changes would create any additional issues.

Thats the whole point of legislation, Ryan White, Rischs chief of staff, told the Statesman. You throw out a draft, you get a discussion going and that happens every single day. Sometimes theres people that you didnt realize had a stake in something and they come out of the woodwork and then you include them in the process.

In fact, the airports data showed three noise complaints originating from Meridian over the past two years. Simison and Miles requested a call with Risch, and the senator pledged to contact Meridian if he pursues similar plans going forward, Miles and Risch said.

By mid-July, Risch, in response to Hupps letter, and after hearing from Meridian, asked that the provision be dropped from the Senate version of the FAA reauthorization bill. The bill remains under consideration in Congress.

Based on feedback from (Hupp) and others, he wants to continue the conversation and proceed when some of the concerns are able to be addressed, White wrote to Hupp and McLeans governmental affairs director, Kathy Griesmyer.

Risch remains steadfast that the issue of aircraft noise in and around Boise will need to be addressed sooner or later.

This is a work in progress, Risch said. This is not going to resolve now, and its going to not resolve in the future. This issue is going to go on as long as theres a city of Boise and as long as theres an airport.
I'm a South Asian American solo traveler and I don't see many women like me traveling alone.

Eventually, I began planning meetups and gatherings with people like me around the globe.

I've made so many connections during my travels and I've loved meeting new people.

At 18 years old, I moved to Madrid, Spain, to become an au pair for the summer.

As a South Asian American woman, I only told my parents after I booked my flight because I knew they'd never approve. They said I couldn't go because no one in our community had ever traveled like that before  it wasn't the norm for a woman in my culture to travel alone to another country.

But I went, and what they said began to really register with me once I began sharing my adventures online as a photo diary and gained followers who weren't just friends and family. Often, South Asian people, mainly women, would comment on my posts to ask how I got my parents to let me travel.

As I explored, I came across locals and other travelers who'd never met a Pakistani woman before  and I realized that I hadn't met many South Asian folks during my travels, either.

I knew they were out there and that many South Asian people travel alone and travel in general, so I began posting online even more to try to connect with the community. In February, a TikTok I posted looking for Desi girls who wanted to travel went viral  and it led me to plan a group trip to Bali.

I've been able to connect with people on small and large scales as I've traveled. Nabila Ismail

I also started connecting with new people everywhere I went on small and large scales.

In Australia, I spent time with two South Asian women who invited me to cook dinner and see a new Bollywood movie with them. I felt like I was at home with friends as we bonded over how home-cooked Indian/Pakistani food is unmatched and spoke in English mashed with Hindi.

Over 140 people RSVPed to one of my New York City meetups and I got to connect with people who wished to travel despite not having familial support, had faced similar cultural struggles, and didn't have friends to travel with.

So many people reached out to me in each city that I started planning more official meetups and group trips, eventually creating the Dose of Travel Club for South Asian travelers.

Building a community around the world has been the best part of my travels

I've been to many countries but what makes travel so special is the people I meet. Nabila Ismail

I've now officially spent the past 15 months planning group trips and meetups while traveling the world solo.

Since I began posting online, I've met dozens of people who also want to travel the world and seek out more South Asian friends. My travels have been so much better because of the community I've found along the way.

Although I love traveling on my own, I've thoroughly enjoyed meeting like-minded people wherever I go and I feel joy uniting people in their hometowns. I hope I can continue to inspire more women of color to go outside their comfort zones and create meaningful friendships around the globe.

Read the original article on Insider
NASA astronaut Frank Rubio celebrated a spaceflight milestone with two former astronauts on Earth.

NASA 's Frank Rubio spoke with senior NASA management from the International Space Station on Thursday (Sept. 13), two days after breaking the previous record of 355 days on a single spaceflight. Rubio is now expected to spend 371 days in orbit, making him the first American to spend more than a year in space on a single mission. More incredibly, it wasn't planned that way; problems with his spacecraft forced an expected six-month orbital stay to double to a year.

"It was unexpected. In some ways, it's been an incredible challenge," Rubio said of the milestone during the livestreamed call on NASA Television, with NASA administrator Bill Nelson and deputy administrator Pam Melroy. "But in other ways, it's been an incredible blessing. I count myself lucky and honored to be able to represent the agency and our country."

Rubio, a Salvadorian-American born in Los Angeles, added that with his record-breaking stay falling during National Hispanic Heritage Month (which concludes Oct. 15), he finds it "timely" as it "symbolizes the diversity of the wonderful rich fabric of America."

Related: NASA astronaut Frank Rubio surprised by his accidental record in space (video)

an astronaut floating in spies smiles while handling laboratory equipment

Rubio and his Russian MS-22 Soyuz spacecraft crewmates Sergey Prokopyev and Dmitri Petelin, cosmonauts from Roscosmos , were scheduled to spend a typical six months in space after launching Sept. 21, 2022. Both Rubio and Petelin were on their first flight.

Halfway through their stay, however, MS-22, also serving as their ride home, dramatically lost all its coolant in a December 2022 leak. After considering options, Roscosmos rapidly shipped up an empty replacement Soyuz, called MS-23, which arrived on Feb. 25.

The agencies also formulated an emergency escape plan from the ISS before MS-23 arrived, assigning Rubio on a temporary seat (involving tie-down straps on the floor of an already docked SpaceX Crew Dragon ). His Russian crewmates were authorized to use MS-22 if absolutely needed, as two humans would not heat up the uncooled spacecraft as rapidly as three. But that plan luckily did not need to be implemented after MS-23 safely docked.

Read more: Russia's replacement Soyuz spacecraft arrives at space station

Rubio and his crewmates, however, were needed to stay on board until a relief crew could arrive. That required getting yet another spacecraft (MS-24) ready for spaceflight to send the astronauts. Since NASA astronaut Loral O'Hara and Roscosmos cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko and Nikolai Chub were supposed to use MS-23, that crew's departure date on MS-24 was delayed to no earlier than Sept. 15 for their MS-24 reassignment.

Assuming this all goes to plan, Rubio and his crewmates will finally depart space on Sept. 27.

"As much as it was a challenge to say an extra six months, I'm so grateful that the agency was able to say, 'Hey, you know what the safe thing to do would be: To fire up a new spacecraft, and have (my crew) wait and ensure a more safe return," Rubio said in the call, adding, "I am looking forward to a return on a more safe and more secure spacecraft."

Nelson and Melroy, both flown astronauts from the space shuttle program, paid tribute to the challenges Rubio had faced in orbit. (Melroy flew three times as a NASA astronaut. Nelson, then a member of the House of Representatives on a space committee, flew on mission STS-61C in 1986 under a program NASA then had for non-professionals to reach space.)

"You made all kinds of records up there, and you've had six months that you didn't expect," said Nelson, speaking from NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C.

Melroy, standing beside Nelson in the view of the video, said Rubio's wife and kids "have been on my mind so much." The former astronaut added she wanted to check in to make sure Rubio was getting the support he needed.

Rubio said that the NASA community had rallied around him, sending people over to the house as needed to help the family. Luckily, upgrades to NASA's internet on station came in during his mission as well, allowing for high-quality video conferences with family at least twice a week, he said.

Rubio joked that his only regret was not eating one of the space-grown Red Robin tomatoes his crew tended, and managed to save from an unexpected humidity drop on ISS at a crucial growth point. Rubio's inch-long tomato unfortunately floated away to a hidden spot before he could take a bite. "I spent so many hours looking for that thing," he quipped. "I'm sure the desiccated tomato will show up at some point and vindicate me, years in the future."

RELATED STORIES:

 Astronaut Frank Rubio breaks US record on way to spending a year in space

 UAE's 1st long-duration astronaut says a moon mission is within reach

 NASA astronaut Loral O'Hara ready for Soyuz launch to relieve delayed crew in space

Only seven astronauts have spent more than a year in space. Aside from the trio on MS-22/23, the other four were cosmonauts on missions visiting the then-Soviet Mir space station . Topping the list is Valery Polyakov (437 days), while the others are Sergey Avdeev, Musa Manarov and Vladimir Titov.

Rubio's mark surpasses the 355-day record last set by NASA astronaut Mark Vande Hei. Vande Hei was also expected to spend six months in space, but learned preflight he may extend to a year due to space station staffing needs (which is what ended up happening.)

Vande Hei, speaking with Rubio earlier this month from NASA's Johnson Space Station in Houston, said the most memorable part of his own stay was "the people that I got to spend that much time [with]  intensively, both working and playing as much as we possibly can."
By YP Rajesh

NEW DELHI (Reuters) -A grand temple of Lord Ram, worshipped by millions of Hindus, will open in January in northern India at a site believed to be his birthplace, fulfilling a promise from the ruling party in a location that was a flashpoint for Hindu-Muslim violence.

The site in the northern town of Ayodhya, where the temple construction is nearing completion, was bitterly contested for decades with both Hindus and Muslims laying claim to it.

India's majority Hindus say the site was the birthplace of Lord Ram, and was holy to them long before Muslim Mughals razed a temple at the spot and built the Babri mosque there in 1528.

A Hindu mob destroyed the mosque in 1992, triggering riots that killed about 2,000 people across India, most of them Muslims.

Building a Ram temple at the site has been a central, campaign theme of Prime Minister Narendra Modi 's Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for more than three decades.

Hindu and Muslim groups have fought over ownership of the site through India's courts. In 2019, the Supreme Court handed over the land to Hindus and ordered allotment of a separate plot to Muslims.

Muslim groups were not happy with the verdict but said they would accept it with humility.

Nripendra Misra , chairman of the Shri Ramjanmabhoomi Temple Construction Committee, said that the ground floor of the temple will be ready in December and devotees will be allowed to pray after the idol of Lord Ram is moved there in January.

Modi has been invited for the conclusion of prayers by priests in late January, which will mark the opening of the temple, said Misra, a retired bureaucrat who was Modi's principal secretary, or chief of staff until 2019, before moving to the independent temple construction panel.

"It will be good if the prime minister is present," Misra said.

Indian engineering giant Larsen and Toubro is building the temple on a 2.67-acre (1.08 hectares) site inside a 70-acre (28.33 hectares) complex, Misra said, adding that the second and final phase would be completed in December 2025.

The project is estimated to cost 15 billion rupees ($181 million) and is entirely funded by donations from 40 million resident Indians that totalled more than 30 billion rupees, he said.

An estimated 100,000 devotees are expected to visit the temple daily in the first months, he added.

BJP leaders and analysts have said that the opening of the temple is expected to boost the party's fortunes in general elections due by May 2024 when Modi will seek a third term.

Asked if the timing of the opening is linked to elections, Misra replied: "It has nothing to do whatsoever with the political elections. This was decided in 2020."

($1 = 82.9920 Indian rupees)

(Additional reporting by Sakshi Dayal; Editing by Sharon Singleton)
IU officials say former police chief Jill Lees didn't follow procedures when deciding two campus officers did nothing wrong when they arrested a Bloomington grad student who failed to pay a $3 parking fee.

IU learned of the September 2022 arrest of Moses Baryoh Jr. when notified of a federal civil rights lawsuit he filed in U.S. District Court June 9, according to a university statement released Wednesday.

Attached was nearly 10 hours of camera footage from body and police car cameras that show what happened the night two white officers confronted Baryoh, who is Black.

IUPD videos show what happened

The officers went looking for Baryoh after he left IU's student recreation center at 8:47 p.m. without paying the $3 parking lot fee. He had cash, and they just take credit and debit cards. Officers Austin Magness and Charlotte Watts found him in his apartment complex parking lot.

"What's up, buddy? Can you come and chat with me real fast?" Magness says, telling Baryoh to take a seat on the curb. "Can ya'll tell me what this is about?" Baryoh responds, refusing to sit down. Magness tells him to put his hands behind his back, then locks handcuffs around his wrists.

"Can I please know why? Can I please know why? Can I please know why?" Baryoh asks over and over. The officers don't answer. Magness tells him, "You could have made it a lot easier."

Settlement: Unpaid $3 parking fee core of federal civil rights lawsuit Indiana University quietly settled

Baryoh, wearing just gym shorts and tennis shoes, gets placed in the backseat of an IUPD squad car. He admits having a bag of marijuana in his pocket, and hands it over. Magness pulls a Miranda advisement of rights card from his wallet and reads Baryoh his Constitutional rights.

It's then the officer tells Baryoh why police came after him. "You have been identified as someone who left the SRSC without paying."

Magness tells Baryoh he was confrontational when he refused to sit on the curb. "I tried to back up because I was scared," Baryoh says. He tells Magness that he's sorry.

"I'm not trying to hurt you, regardless of what the media says," Magness responds. "This could have all been avoided."

The officers drove him to jail, where Baryoh waited nearly an hour sitting shirtless and handcuffed on a bench in the police car entryway. "I by no means think you're a bad person," Magness says. "You made a poor choice."

More: IUPD body-worn and police car camera footage from the Sept. 7, 2022 incident

IU offers apology

"It is with regret that we share that members of our Indiana University Bloomington Police Department failed to apply IU's high standards for pursuing and arrest," said the statement, which offered an apology to Baryoh and the community.

"We are deeply saddened by the behavior and actions that took place."

IU settled the lawsuit Sept. 5; details are confidential and not available. The settlement came a week after word got out that Lees was no longer employed by IUPD. Lees could not be reached for comment.

Jill Lees, former chief of police for the Indiana University Police Department, at her swearing in ceremony in 2019.

Baryoh accused IUPD officers Magness and Watts of unreasonable search and seizure, use of excessive force, false arrest and assault. He sued both officers, IU and the IU Board of Trustees.

IU's statement said Lees made the wrong decision when she upheld the officers' actions. "An initial and standard department review of the arrest conducted in October 2022 by the former IUPD police chief concluded no wrongdoing had occurred and no subsequent action was undertaken."

Preliminary charges sought against Baryoh  theft, resisting arrest and possession of marijuana  were dismissed.

When Magness went to the parking lot after the attendant and his supervisor called police, one of the people heard on the video says, "This is a lot of ridiculousness for $3 ... wasting a lot of people's time."

IU investigation into incident

After the lawsuit was filed, IU officials reviewed "all associated behaviors, processes, and procedures," the statement said, and "determined that the former IU police chief did not follow mandatory review protocols during the initial 2022 review."

What happened? Jill Lees is no longer chief of police at IU-Bloomington

It was then "IU determined that IUPD policies were indeed violated during this incident" and imposed sanctions on those involved. Lees was either terminated or she resigned. The Herald-Times has filed a public records request seeking details.

The statement said, "all responsible parties within IUPD have received disciplinary action," but did not elaborate. The H-T filed a request seeking details about those sanctions as well and has not received a response from IU.

Changes implemented

IU listed steps taken in addition to discipline against Lees and the officers:

Hiring an outside consultant to review the police department in Bloomington and other IU campuses "to assess policies, procedures, practices, cultural norms and leadership."

Enhanced training on "fair and impartial policing, procedural compliance, and field operations."

Implementing changes "to university processes such as parking enforcement, to ensure reasonable responses in the future."

Maintaining an open dialogue to ensure that "IUPD operates at the highest ethical standards aligned with IUs core values."

The statement said IU "holds our staff, faculty, and leadership to the highest standards of ethical conduct and integrity, including IUPD."

Letter calls leaders 'incompetent'

In a related matter, an anonymous letter has been sent to police officers and others seeking a "vote of no confidence" in the public safety leadership team that oversees all IU campus police departments.

The letter features photos of Benjamin Hunter, IU's associate vice president for public safety; Steve Adams, IU's senior director for public safety; and Brad Seifers, IUPD's deputy superintendent and the father-in-law of Austin Magness, whose actions were targeted in the lawsuit. Seifers has been appointed interim IUPD chief on the Bloomington campus to replace Lees.

A letter sent this week to police officers and others connected to IUPD

The letter claims a toxic work environment at IUPD and calls the three public safety leaders "incompetent, unprofessional and untrustworthy." It asks recipients to register their concerns on the back of the letter, then send it to the IU trustees in a pre-addressed and stamped envelope that was enclosed.

Contact H-T reporter Laura Lane at llane@heraldt.com or 812-318-5967.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: Jill Lees firing: IU apologizes for Black student's parking fee arrest
FILE PHOTO: Staff install a sign reading "Nipah isolation ward, entry strictly prohibited" at a hospital where a ward is being prepared for suspected Nipah virus patients in Kozhikode

FILE PHOTO: Staff install a sign reading "Nipah isolation ward, entry strictly prohibited" at a hospital where a ward is being prepared for suspected Nipah virus patients in Kozhikode

By Rupam Jain

New Delhi (Reuters) - Experts have fanned out in India's southern state of Kerala to collect samples of fluid from bats and fruit trees in a region where the deadly Nipah virus has killed two people and three more have tested positive.

The state is battling its fourth outbreak since 2018 of a virus for which there is no vaccine, and which spreads through contact with the body fluids of infected bats, pigs or people, killing up to 75% of those infected.

"We are testing human beings ... and at the same time experts are collecting fluid samples from forested areas that could be the hotspot for the spread," Veena George, the state's health minister, told Reuters.

Samples of bat urine, animal droppings and half-eaten fruit were collected from Maruthonkara, the village where the first victim lived, set beside a 300-acre (121-hectare) forest home to several bat species.

Fruit bats from the area had tested positive for the Nipah virus during an outbreak in 2018, the state's first.

"We are in a stage of hypervigilance and detection," George said, adding that 77 people had been identified as being at high risk of infection.

Nearly 800 people have been tested over the last 48 hours in the state's district of Kozhikode, with two adults and a child put in hospital for observation after proving positive.

Public offices, government buildings, educational centres and religious institutions were shut in nine villages of the district, while public transport was suspended in the area at risk.

The neighbouring states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have ordered tests for visitors from Kerala, with plans to isolate any who show symptoms of influenza.

The virus can infect a range of animals, fuelling the chances of spread. It can be caught either through direct contact or by consumption of contaminated food.

It was first identified in 1999 during an outbreak of illness among pig farmers and others in close contact with the animals in Malaysia and Singapore.

Outbreaks are sporadic and previous infections in South Asia were traced to consumption of items contaminated with bat excreta.

Kerala's first Nipah outbreak killed 21 of the 23 infected, while subsequent outbreaks in 2019 and 2021 killed two people.

In May, a Reuters investigation showed parts of Kerala among the places most at risk globally for outbreaks of bat viruses, as the clearing of forests for development throws people and wildlife into closer contact.

(Reporting by Rupam Jain; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
The world needs compromise, says UN chief

Xinhua) 08:34, September 14, 2023

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks at a press conference held ahead of the high-level week of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly at the UN headquarters in New York, on Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Xie E)

"Politics is compromise. Diplomacy is compromise. Effective leadership is compromise," says Antonio Guterres.

UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- It is in the interest of everybody to have a global compromise, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Wednesday.

Guterres made the remarks at a press conference held ahead of the high-level week of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly.

Beginning on Sept. 18, world leaders and delegates will gather at the United Nations headquarters in New York to participate in a series of high-level meetings and events.

"My appeal to world leaders will be clear," Guterres said. "This is not a time for posturing or positioning. This is not a time for indifference or indecision. This is a time to come together for real, practical solutions. It is time for compromise for a better tomorrow."

"Politics is compromise. Diplomacy is compromise. Effective leadership is compromise," he added.

The high-level week is a one-of-a-kind moment each year for leaders from every corner of the globe to not only assess the state of the world, but to act for the common good, he said, stressing that "action is what the world needs now."

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres (Rear) rings the Peace Bell during a ceremony at the UN headquarters in New York, on Sept. 13, 2023. (Cia Pak/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua)

The world leaders are gathering at a time when humanity faces huge challenges, from the worsening climate emergency to escalating conflicts, the global cost-of-living crisis, soaring inequalities and dramatic technological disruptions, said Guterres.

"People are looking to their leaders for a way out of this mess. Yet in the face of all this and more, geopolitical divisions are undermining our capacity to respond," he said.

A multipolar world is emerging. While multipolarity can be a factor of equilibrium, it can also lead to escalating tensions, fragmentation and worse, Guterres noted.

"But at a time when our challenges are more connected than ever, the outcome of a zero-sum game is that everyone gets zero," he said.

The UN chief told reporters that although there are divisions, different interests, different visions and different cultures, the world needs compromise.

"If we want a future of peace and prosperity based on equity and solidarity, leaders have a special responsibility to achieve compromise in designing our common future for our common good," he said. "Next week here in New York is the place to start."

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
On a largely party-line vote, the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday advanced the nomination of April Perry to be the next U.S. attorney in Chicago, marking a crucial step to becoming the first-ever woman to hold the high-profile position.

Perrys selection, which was announced by President Joe Biden three months ago, was among a dozen federal nominations to be considered at an executive meeting of the Judiciary Committee, which is chaired by Democratic Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin.

Advertisement

Durbin began the hearing by saying that the junior senator from Ohio, Republican J.D. Vance, had announced his intention to block Perrys nomination as part of his ongoing protest of the indictment of former President Donald Trump by special counsel Jack Smith.

If (Attorney General) Merrick Garland wants to use these officials to harass Joe Bidens political opponents, we will grind his department to a halt, Vance said in a statement earlier this year.

Advertisement

Vance does not sit on the Judiciary Committee, so any influence he has would come during a debate on nominees before the full Senate.

Durbin noted Thursday that leaving U.S. attorney posts vacant has real implications on the Justice Departments ability to prosecute violent drug cartels and other important work that keeps us safe.

Find another way to protest, Durbin said.

The committee then voted 12-9 to advance Perrys nomination for a full Senate vote, a process that could take several more weeks.

In a written statement after the vote, Durbin and fellow Illinois Sen. Tammy Duckworth, also a Democrat, said they were pleased with the vote for Perry, who brings strong qualifications and a wealth of experience from her time in the U.S. Attorneys Office and in the private sector to the position.

While we would hope for quick consideration of Ms. Perrys nomination by the full Senate, one Republican Senator continues to hold up Department of Justice nominees, including critical federal law enforcement officers  who prosecute violent crime, terrorism, and crimes against children  from being quickly confirmed, the statement read. If the Republican Party was really the party of law and order, they would release their holds and allow these law enforcement officers to be confirmed without delay.

A spokesperson for Vance was not immediately available for comment.

Perry, a former assistant U.S. attorney in Chicago, was one of two finalists for the position announced earlier this year by Durbin and Duckworth after a screening process that began when then-U.S. Attorney John Lausch announced his plan to step down.

Advertisement

If confirmed, Perry would be the first woman to hold the position of Chicagos top federal prosecutor.

Perry is currently the senior counsel for global investigations and fraud and abuse prevention at Chicago-based GE HealthCare. Previously, she worked for 12 years as a federal prosecutor in Chicago, and for a time was a coordinator for various programs that concentrated on violence against women, hate crimes and civil rights.

While with the U.S. attorneys office, she prosecuted television pitchman Kevin Trudeau on allegations that he made deceptive TV commercials, a crime that led to a 10-year federal prison sentence for Trudeau.

Afternoon Briefing Weekdays 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 >

Perry left the U.S. attorneys office to work as chief ethics officer for Cook County States Attorney Kim Foxx. She left the office while Foxxs administration was under scrutiny for abruptly dismissing charges against Empire actor Jussie Smollett.

A special prosecutor later took up the case, and Smollett was found guilty of filing a false police report for falsely reporting to be a victim of a hate crime.

The U.S. attorneys office in Chicago is one of the busiest in the nation, handling everything from terrorism, gang conspiracies and bank robberies to financial fraud and political corruption. The office has more than 300 employees, including about 130 prosecutors and more than two dozen attorneys who focus on civil litigation.

Advertisement

In addition to her law practice, Perry has also served as a hearing officer for the Chicago Police Board, a panel that decides whether Chicago cops should be fired for disciplinary infractions.

She received a bachelors and law degrees from Northwestern University.

Lausch left the U.S. attorneys office March 11 after more than five years at the helm of some of the citys highest-profile investigations, including racketeering probes of ex-Ald. Edward Burke and former House Speaker Michael Madigan.

jmeisner@chicagotribune.com
The lead prosecutor of the International Criminal Court at the Hague has announced that the international judicial body will begin investigating and prosecuting any hacking crimes that violate existing international laws. Russian cyberattacks on Ukrainian critical civilian infrastructure may be the first case under this new policy.

Unlike real-world crimes considered war crimes, the world of cyberwarfare doesnt have an agreed-upon set of rules like the Geneva Convention. Digital activists and cybersecurity advocacy groups have long called for some kind of international criminal code that could mean attacks on power grids, hospitals, and other civilian targets have real-world consequences for their perpetrators.

Karim Khan, the ICCs lead prosecutor, isn't going to wait for an international body to agree on a new set of rules for cyberwarfare. Hes content to let existing law guide him to the bad actors no matter where theyre hacking from. Using the Rome Statute, a treaty that allows the ICC to prosecute those guilty of real-world crimes like genocide and crimes against humanity, his office will pursue criminals how do the same kind of attacks in cyberspace.

Cyberwarfare does not play out in the abstract. Rather, it can have a profound impact on peoples lives, Khan wrote in a foreign policy journal . Attempts to impact critical infrastructure such as medical facilities or control systems for power generation may result in immediate consequences for many, particularly the most vulnerable. Consequently, as part of its investigations, my office will collect and review evidence of such conduct.

In the same article, Khan claims many international laws governing cyberwarfare are well-defined enough for prosecution in The Hague. Though Khans writing doesnt specifically mention the conflict in Ukraine, there is growing evidence of Russian cyberattacks against Ukraine both before and during its February 2022 invasion. Russian cyberwarfare has also spilled over from the frontlines of the Ukrainian war and into networks across the world, including the United States.

These attacks have caused mass blackouts, destruction of data, internet breakdowns and real-world damage to power infrastructures and hospitals in Ukraine, the U.S., Europe and beyond. Russian war crimes may have been the trigger for Khans announcement, but not mentioning the conflict specifically is a declaration that cyberwarfare crimes anywhere will no longer elude justice in The Hague.

Vladimir Putin arrest warrant seen in press release from the International Criminal Court in The Hague. On 17 March 2023 in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo Illustration by Jonathan Raa/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

We need to show that the law is able to deliver for those who find themselves on the front lines. And those front lines are no longer just physical: The digital front lines can give rise to damage and suffering comparable to what the founders of the ICC sought to prevent, Khan wrote.

Russian hackers are already facing serious charges in Ukraine and the United States, but if Khan can prosecute hackers in The Hague under the Rome Statute, the ICCs jurisdiction over cyberwar crimes could take effect in 123 countries signatory to the Rome Statute. This could mean that countries who dont have mutual extradition treaties would legally be able to extradite cybercriminals to The Hague based on the Rome Statute instead.

It also means that the crimes arent just attributed to the people with their fingers on the keyboard but could apply to everyone in the chain of command, just like the prosecution of a real-world war crime.

International criminal justice can and must adapt to this new landscape, wrote Khan.
Ukrainian investigators have identified four Russian soldiers who were involved in the killing of a supermarket security guard in the town of Bucha, Kyiv Oblast, in February 2022, the Prosecutor General's Office announced on Sept. 14.

The soldiers did not observe the principle of distinguishing between civilian and military targets, resulting in the civilian's death, the Prosecutor General's Office said, adding that the four soldiers have been charged with violating the customs of war and committing murder.

The Russian soldiers, two of whom were commanders, were part of the Russian invading force from the 76th Guards Airborne Assault Division.

On Feb. 27, 2022, one commander gave the order via radio to consider anyone wearing black clothing as a enemy combatant, despite the fact this could "result in accidental civilian casualties," the Prosecutor General's Office said.

A man who worked as a security guard for the local Novus supermarket was wearing a black work uniform marked with "Novus Security".

He was targeted by these troops, despite the fact "he had no weapon and did not pose any threat," the Prosecutor General's Office reported.

Ukraines Security Service (SBU) reported on Aug. 31 that it had identified another Russian serviceman involved in the massacre of civilians in Kyiv Oblast.

Vadim Ovchinnikov, senior lieutenant and the commander of a reconnaissance platoon, told his subordinates to shoot at a family trying to evacuate from the village of Severynivka near Bucha, according to the SBU.

Read also: Uncovering the scope of the Bucha massacre

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
This month, President Joe Biden will sign a new Presidential Determination on Refugee Admissions, which sets the goal for refugee resettlement this coming year. Around the world, this number is recognized as an important sign of Americas commitment to refugees and protecting the most vulnerable.

Years ago, one of those refugees was me. I was born in Dadaab, the largest refugee camp in Kenya, where my mother and older siblings ended up in 1992 after fleeing the civil war in Somalia. The camp was safer than the war, but it was a hard place to grow up. Most people didnt have enough food or water, and we only survived because of my mothers work as a midwife.

When I was nine years old, we resettled in Boise. The transition wasnt always easy. I was the only Black person in my class and had to learn a new language. It was especially difficult for my mother, who wasnt able to continue her career in the United States despite her many credentials. However, it was also thrilling. We met many people in Idaho who supported us, and I learned the power of self-advocacy.

I learned English, went to Boise State University, and recently moved to Minneapolis to pursue a masters degree in Development Practice. With the support of my community, I overcame social and system obstacles meant to outcast me. Like every refugee, I survived and am resilient. When I left Idaho, my mother said to me, Allah Qof kastaa ha ka dhigo hooyadaa iyo aabbahaa. That translates to, I pray that everyone you meet becomes your mother and your father, meaning people who love you and care for you. To me, that is the spirit of welcome so many refugees bring to this country  and that, in its best moments, this country gives to us.

Unfortunately, during recent years that official welcome has waned. The Trump administration gutted the refugee resettlement program and although President Biden has worked to raise our resettlement goal to 125,000 refugees the last two years, we have gotten nowhere near that number. This year, the United States is on track to settle less than half that number.

This is a tragedy, not only for refugees who are denied the chance to restart their lives in safety, but for all Americans. Beyond humanitarian obligations, refugees enrich our communities in ways big and small. Refugees bring unique skills, experiences and perspectives that enhance this countrys culture and economy, and drive innovation. When we get the chance to flourish, everyone benefits.

As a former refugee, Im truly grateful to be here. I have had opportunities and met many people who have helped me, and I am now in a place where I can give back. And I know I am not unique. When refugees get the chance to work and accomplish our goals, we always give back to our communities and the people who helped us. No matter where we come from, it is a common value we share.

For me, that looks like advocating for policy changes that will benefit my community. Through my mothers experience, I saw firsthand the reality that many refugees are not able to continue their careers because their degrees or certifications are not accepted in this country. There is an urgent need for partnerships and policy solutions to unlock the potential of immigrant professionals and bridge the gap between their skills and employment opportunities. That is why I founded the Circle of Excellence, a grassroots organization dedicated to increasing awareness, advocating for equitable employment practices, and pushing for systematic reforms to address the issue of brain drain in refugee and immigrant communities.

Welcoming refugees requires more than just words or empty gestures, which is why ahead of this years Presidential Determination, I am calling on the Biden administration to invest the resources necessary to restore the refugee resettlement program and help recent newcomers utilize their skills for the benefit of the country. By investing in refugee resettlement, you are investing in the future of America.

Halima Hamud is a graduate student, community organizer, and refugee leader from Boise, Idaho.
DUBAI (Reuters) -Iran is ready to implement a Qatar-mediated deal with the United States, its foreign minister said on Thursday, under which Washington and Tehran each would free five prisoners and $6 billion in Iranian assets held in South Korea would be released.

The broad outlines of the U.S.-Iran deal under which U.S. citizens detained by Iran would be allowed to leave in exchange for the transfer of the funds to banks in Qatar and the release of five Iranians held in the United States were made public on Aug. 10.

Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, in a telephone conversation with his Qatari counterpart, praised Doha's constructive role during months of negotiations that resulted in clinching the pact, Iranian state media reported.

Qatar's prime minister and foreign minister, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, said the process of wiring the Islamic Republic's unfrozen funds to Qatari banks will be completed as early as next week, Iranian media reported.

Washington has waived sanctions to allow the transfer of $6 billion in Iranian funds from South Korea to Qatar, which will monitor how Iran's clerical rulers will spend the funds to purchase humanitarian goods.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesman said on Monday the deal was expected to be carried out in the coming days.

(Additional reporting by Elwely Elwelly in Dubai; writing by Parisa Hafezi; editing by Mark Heinrich)
By Alexander Cornwell

AZERMOUN, Morocco (Reuters) - Villagers in some of the most isolated areas hit by Morocco's earthquake were still living in makeshift tents and relying on donkeys to bring vital supplies on Thursday as they waited for state aid to reach them nearly a week after the disaster.

The 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck the High Atlas Mountains late on Sept. 8 killed 2,946 people and injured 5,674, according to the latest official figures, making it Morocco's deadliest since 1960 and most powerful since at least 1900.

While orderly camps of large, government-issued tents and military field hospitals have sprung up in some of the larger towns, parts of the rugged region are still surviving on donations left on roadsides by citizens.

Reuters reporters travelling along a remote road connecting Amazigh, or Berber, villages, saw survivors camped out in small tents or under plastic sheets, scared that aftershocks could destroy their damaged houses.

"We Amazigh feel like foreigners in our country. We feel isolated. The people here are in need. They feel like they are alone," Radouen Oubella, 20, said in his village of Azermoun.

He was echoing long-held grievances about the marginalisation of Amazigh in the majority Arab nation.

The government has said it is doing everything it can to help all earthquake victims.

The royal palace said in a statement on Thursday that 50,000 houses were known to have been damaged by the earthquake, and it would provide shelter and 30,000 dirhams ($3,000) to affected households.

It also pledged to offer reconstruction aid of 140,000 dirhams for collapsed homes and 80,000 for damaged ones.

The city of Marrakech, which was about 72 km (45 miles) from the epicentre and suffered some damage, will host the annual meetings of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund as planned on Oct. 9-15, Morocco's central bank governor said on Thursday.

But in the Amazigh villages there was little sign of help from the authorities materialising or of life returning to normal anytime soon.

STILL WAITING

On a hilltop at Azermoun, men were sharing out and loading supplies of food and water onto donkeys and mules to transport them to Aoufour, some 15 km away, in a slow-moving convoy of people and animals.

"The people are suffering in this earthquake. They have nothing. We live only on air. We need tents and blankets," said Mohamed Zidane, 55, from Aoufour.

When the convoy was ready, Zidane got on one of the animals and headed off for the long trek home. It would take another two or three days to organise the next convoy.

In a valley down a steep slope from the village of Anzelfi, which suffered severe damage, residents had set up camp with some tents as well as blankets, rugs and other salvaged items.

"We are still waiting for the government to help us," said Mohamed Oufkir, 30. "We are here because we are homeless."

"We are in danger because when it rains the valley can flood," he said. At night it was bitterly cold, he added.

In the village of Tagsdirt, Ibrahim Meghashi's house was still standing but there were huge holes and wide cracks in the walls.

Too fearful to stay inside, he and his wife and three daughters aged six, 10 and 15 were living in an improvised tent. They had lined the dirt floor with cardboard and a mat and had stacked mattresses on top of each other.

"We are very scared. Life here is becoming harder. It is cold. We no longer have a home and we fear there will be another earthquake," said Meghashi, 39.

"The government does not care about us. We feel marginalised. We are angry."

(Writing by Estelle Shirbon; Editing by Andrew Heavens)
Israeli police have arrived in Uman for the duration of the Rosh Hashanah celebration; they will be on duty with their Ukrainian colleagues.

Source: Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine

Quote: "Israeli police arrived in Uman for the duration of the celebration of Rosh Hashanah. Together with the Ukrainian police, they are on duty at the Hasidic pilgrimage sites.

Starting today, the foreign colleagues will be patrolling together with Ukrainian policemen and National Guard soldiers."

Details: A total of 8,726 Hasidic pilgrims have crossed the state border at checkpoints since the beginning of the day. In total, only about 30,000 pilgrims are expected to arrive in Ukraine.

In places of mass gathering of pilgrims, seven posts are on duty 24 hours a day. Foot patrols of the State Emergency Service were involved as well.

A joint unit of the State Emergency Service, a mobile control post of the State Emergency Service, a tactical fire robot, a canine crew and a special radiation and chemical reconnaissance machine with its crew were deployed in Cherkasy Oblast until 19 September.

PHOTO: MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS OF UKRAINE

Background:

11,000 Hasidim pilgrims arrived in Uman in Cherkasy Oblast for the Rosh Hashanah holiday as of the morning of 13 September.

Last year, 29,000 Hasidim arrived in Uman to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, despite the war in Ukraine.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
FILE - Campaign posters for far-right Israeli lawmaker Bezalel Smotrich, now the Minister of Finance, are strung across a road sign marking an entrance to an area under Palestinian control, near the West Bank town of Nablus, Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022. Smotrich assumed new powers from the military over the occupied territory this year. As the first minister to oversee civilian life in the West Bank, his role amounts to a recognition that Israel's occupation is not temporary, but permanent, observers say. (AP Photo/ Maya Alleruzzo, File)

ASA'EL, West Bank (AP)  With attention focused on its contentious judicial overhaul, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government has quietly taken unprecedented steps toward cementing Israels control over the occupied West Bank  perhaps permanently.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich , a leader of the settlement movement, assumed new powers over the occupied territory in his coalition agreement with Netanyahu. Smotrich moved swiftly to approve thousands of new settlement homes, legalize previously unauthorized wildcat outposts and make it more difficult for Palestinians to build homes and move about.

As the first government minister to oversee civilian life in the West Bank, his role amounts to a recognition that Israels 56-year military occupation is not temporary but permanent, observers say.

If Smotrich keeps this position for four years we will be at a point of no return, said Ilan Paz, former head of Israels Civil Administration, a military body overseeing civilian affairs in the West Bank.

Hoping to return to power while facing a corruption trial, Netanyahu offered sweeping concessions to pro-settler lawmakers like Smotrich to form his governing coalition last year. The coalition agreement created a new Israeli settler agency, led by Smotrich, within the Defense Ministry to manage Jewish and Palestinian construction in the 60% of the West Bank over which Israel has control.

Its a sort of revolution, transferring powers from the military, with its legal obligation to consider the well-being of occupied people, to those only committed to Israeli interests, said human rights lawyer Michael Sfard.

Smotrich has said he seeks to double the settler population, build up roads and neighborhoods and erase any remaining differences between life for Israelis in the West Bank and within Israel proper. Along the way, he hopes to destroy any Palestinian hopes of independence.

As finance minister, Smotrich can funnel taxpayer funds to West Bank infrastructure projects. Israels 2024 budget earmarks an all-time high of $960 million  a quarter of all Transportation Ministry funds  for a highway network better connecting Israel to the West Bank. The settlers are just over 5% of Israel's population.

Israel considers the West Bank the biblical heartland of the Jewish people. Smotrich and his supporters envision a single state from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea in which Palestinians can live quietly with second-class status or leave.

We felt like the state never prioritized us because of where we lived. Smotrich is changing that, said Smotrichs spokesperson Eitan Fuld.

While Smotrichs new settler agency now handles the territorys land-use issues, COGAT, the military body that oversees the Civil Administration, retains specific responsibilities over more than 2 million Palestinians. Rights groups and others have compared the division along ethnic lines to  apartheid.

Some half-million settlers live in the West Bank, which Israel captured along with east Jerusalem and Gaza in the 1967 Mideast war. The international community overwhelmingly considers the settlements illegal.

Experts and officials say Smotrich's policies already have compounded Palestinian misery, emboldened violent settlers and unleashed turmoil within Israels military establishment. Recent settlement expansion has also strained the Netanyahu government's ties with the White House.

Smotrich declined interview requests.

Smotrich took over the Civil Administration, the only tool that Israel has to calm things down," said former West Bank military commander Gadi Shamni. The West Bank will explode.

Monthly settler attacks have surged by over 30% this year, compared to 2022, U.N. figures show. The government has approved 13,000 settlement housing units and legalized 20 outposts built without authorization, said anti-settlement watchdog Peace Now, the highest levels since the group started counting in 2012.

Under Smotrich, Israeli authorities have pressed on with the demolition of Palestinian construction built without permits. COGAT acknowledged in July that it rejects over 95% of Palestinian permit requests.

This year's demolitions are up slightly from last year, which saw the most demolitions since at least 2006, according to Israeli rights group B'Tselem.

Meanwhile Israeli authorities have scaled back efforts to evacuate unauthorized Jewish outposts, settlers say.

This is the best government weve ever had, said 32-year-old Shulamit Ben Yashar from the outpost of Asa'el in the arid hills south of Hebron. The outpost  home to 90 families, including Smotrichs brother Tuvia  received legal approval on Sept. 6.

Renovation fever ran high at the Asael playground as mothers gushed about their plans to swap ramshackle caravans and wheezing generators for concrete and Israels national electricity grid.

Their Palestinian neighbors  herders across dusty slopes known as Masafer Yatta  face expulsion by Israeli authorities and increased attacks by settlers. Residents in the rural area, which the Israeli military plans to seize, say Smotrich and his allies are squeezing the life from their communities.

We can barely breathe, said 38-year-old Sameer Hammdeh, whose two camels were killed last month after stumbling over trip wires he said were placed by settlers. Residents say settler provocations  damaging Palestinian cars and hurting livestock  reflect a sense of impunity instilled by the government.

Smotrich and his allies have also vowed to hasten the pace of settlement construction. In July, the government slashed six stages of approval required for settlement advancement down to two: Smotrich and a planning committee.

This makes it possible to build much more, said Zvi Yedidia Sukkot, lawmaker in Smotrichs Religious Zionist party.

The party has proposed allocating $180 million to renovate settlement housing and build new hospitals and schools. Authorities are paving two new multimillion-dollar bypass roads to whisk Israeli settlers around Palestinian towns.

One of the roads goes around Hawara, a flashpoint town where settlers burned dozens of houses and cars in a rampage early this year following the deadly shooting of two settlers. At the time, Smotrich said the town should be erased.

Our government has finally figured out that withdrawing from land is a prize for terror, said Rabbi Menachem Ben Shachar, a teacher at a newly built yeshiva seminary at Homesh, one of four outposts that Israel evacuated in 2005.

Lawmakers repealed the legislation this year that had barred settlers from visiting the site. Over 50 students were rocking in prayer at the yeshiva on a recent visit.

Such decisions have unsettled Israels defense establishment. Settlers said that Israeli forces in May tried to stop them from hauling heavy construction equipment to build a new yeshiva. But when Smotrich pressed, the government abruptly ordered troops to allow settlers to build.

The political echelon ordered the military echelon not to obey the law, said Nitzan Alon, a retired general who once commanded the West Bank region.

The military and COGAT declined to comment on that incident. But a security official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the matter, said Smotrich's intervention has halted several planned demolitions in unauthorized outposts.

Last month, the tug-of-war between Smotrich stalwarts and security-minded military men burst into the open when Israeli authorities were filmed pumping cement into wells south of Hebron, permanently sealing Palestinian water sources in the heat of summer. Palestinians had drilled the wells without permits that Israel rarely provides.

The footage spread on social media, and COGAT was caught off-guard, said the security official. The agency promised any future demolitions of water cisterns would be examined based on their merits.

Smotrichs men are crossing all the lines, said Paz, the former general. They dont care.
FILE - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, chairs the weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office says he will meet billionaire businessman Elon Musk during a trip to the United States. Netanyahus office declined to discuss the agenda for the meeting on Monday, Sept. 18, 2023. But it comes at a time that Musk is facing accusations of tolerating antisemitic messages on his social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg, Pool, File)

JERUSALEM (AP)  Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet billionaire businessman Elon Musk during a trip to the United States next week, the Israeli leader's office said Thursday.

Netanyahu's office said their meeting, which is scheduled for Monday, will include discussions about artificial intelligence. It comes at a time when Musk is facing accusations of tolerating antisemitic messages on his social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

The Anti-Defamation League, a prominent Jewish civil-rights organization, has accused Musk of allowing antisemitism and hate speech to spread on X. Its director, Jonathan Greenblatt , said Musk had amplified the messages of neo-Nazis and white supremacists who want to ban the league by engaging with them recently on X.

In a Sept. 4 post, Musk claimed that the league was trying to kill this platform by falsely accusing it & me of being anti-Semitic. In other posts, he said the league was responsible for a 60% drop in revenue at X and said his company would have no choice but to file a defamation lawsuit against the group.

Oh the irony! he wrote. As of Thursday, he has not followed through on this threat.

X, however, did file a lawsuit against another group that has studied the proliferation of hate speech on the platform.

In August, it sued the nonprofit Center for Countering Digital Hate, accusing it of violating Xs terms of service by improperly collecting a vast amount of data for its analysis. The lawsuit claims the group's research highlighting an increase in hate speech on the former Twitter since Musk took over cost the company millions of dollars of advertising revenue.

But analysts who track Twitter have argued that Musk's chaotic changes to the platform  including jettisoning its well-known brand name  have led to a decline in interest from advertisers.

Greenblatt says his group is willing to work with X and last week met with the company's chief executive, Linda Yaccarino. Both Musk and Yaccarino have recently posted messages saying they oppose antisemitism.

Netanyahu's office said his first U.S. stop  in San Francisco  will include meetings with other tech leaders to discuss artificial intelligence. It did not identify the executives.

From there, he heads to New York, where he is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly and meet with President Joe Biden and other world leaders, his office said. They include German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as well as South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is likely worried that an arms deal with North Korea may expose Russia to new economic penalties and endanger current efforts to evade sanctions, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) wrote in its Sept. 13 report.

North North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met with Putin at the Vostochny Cosmodrome on Sept. 13 to begin offical negotiations.

Kim claimed that "the Russian army and people will achieve a great victory in the sacred battle against the great evil."

Meanwhile, Putin told Russian media the talks were "highly productive."

According to the ISW, Putin's neutral tone indicates his need "to balance Russias interest in acquiring North Korean artillery munitions with concerns about the risk of triggering secondary international sanctions."

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support us

The Russian military's ongoing artillery crisis has led Moscow to deepen ties with North Korea in hopes of securing additional weaponry.

However, trade with North Korea exposes Russia to additional international condemnation, at a time when Moscow's sanctions evasion tactics are receiving more attention.

U.S. officials have warned that an arms deal with Kim would violate UN resolutions aimed at restricting North Korea's nuclear program. The U.S. has also said it would impose new sanctions on North Korea if it sells weapons to Russia.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Editors note: This is Part Three of a five-part series.

As Gov. Bruce Rauners administration was winding down in 2018, a group of about two dozen prominent Illinois residents  Republicans and Democrats, wealthy, involved in government or civic life  joined up to begin laying plans to clean up the one-term governors mess.

Advertisement

Rauner, in his failed effort to break the Springfield political machine, mostly was broken by it instead. A two-year budget impasse led to nearly $17 billion of unpaid bills. The states credit rating fell to one notch above junk status. A standoff over funding the Chicago Public Schools had briefly left the system teetering on the brink of insolvency.

The civic leaders  convened by the late Laurence Msall, who as head of the Civic Federation served as the states longtime fiscal conscience commissioned a fix-it report, by the Boston Consulting Group, which laid out a series of reforms. A main point of emphasis was the states woeful pension system, ranked among the weakest in the nation.

Advertisement

Illinois five pension plans for state employees remained poorly financed, even though state contributions to them were increasing sharply. From $5.8 billion in 2012, the payments were on a path to hit more than $10 billion this year, on their way to $19 billion by 2045.

[ Opinion series: Pension solutions: How Illinois can address its biggest financial challenge ]

When I asked Marin Gjaja, lead author of the report, about the competition between pensions and social services for state funds, he framed the answer in vivid language. Over time, if we arent aggressive, well end up running the state of Illinois as a sort of grand retirement plan, Gjaja said.

Four years since the civic leaders conducted their study  which was never made public  Chicagos business elite are rallying around a new white paper: A report by the Civic Committee of Chicago this February put forward an ambitious plan to fix the states pension system.

Its keystone proposal: a temporary income tax increase that would raise $28.5 billion exclusively to pay down the states $140 billion in pension debt. By the Civic Committees math, taxpayers would save $35 billion over 22 years.

Another ambitious proposal, with an entirely different approach, came this June from the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability. The left-leaning research group updated its call to reamortize the states pension debt  stretching it out to reduce annual costs, but aiming for only 80% funding by 2045. Thats 10 percentage points lower than current state policy, a change that credit rating agencies would not like.

Competing studies

The reports come at an important inflection point for Illinois.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker over two years has committed $700 million for extra pension payments, in addition to the legally mandated, fast-rising contributions required by law. The extra payments have been a factor in the decisions by credit agencies to reward Illinois with eight credit upgrades since Pritzker took office.

Illinois has a little momentum. But with federal pandemic funds no longer flowing, and talk of a possible recession, the need for pension discipline is one of the most difficult and important issues facing the state. Demands on state funds are rising, with competition for spending on education, public health and safety.

Advertisement

Concerns about Illinois fiscal outlook prompted the Civic Committee in February to step forward with its plan.

The key proposal  the call for an income tax increase that would fund increased pension payments for a decade  is the most substantial new idea for fixing the states retirement systems to emerge in recent years.

The individual tax rate would add a 0.5% surcharge on top of the existing 4.95 tax rate for those 10 years; corporations would shoulder a 0.7% surcharge. The additional revenue would be dedicated exclusively toward pension payments  $2.3 billion in the first year, growing annually for a total of $28.5 billion over 10 years.

After that, the states payments would decrease each year, 2034 until 2053, when the state would achieve 100% funding of pensions. The states current plan calls for 90% funding by 2045, which hurts Illinois with credit rating agencies, investors and business interests.

The Civic Committee is an exclusive cohort of Chicagos top business leaders, a 40-year-old offshoot of the staid Commercial Club, best known for sponsoring the landmark Plan for Chicago, led by architect Daniel Burnham, in 1909.

The committee has been a fiscal hawk, and at times a public scold, steadfastly insisting on austere spending, financial planning, adequate pension funding and other fiscal disciplines in Illinois government. The new report, which restates a controversial call for taxing retirement income in Illinois for people earning more than $100,000 a year, is designed to help earn a double-A rating from credit agencies.

Advertisement

The plan also seems designed to bring the Civic Committee more in line with the prevailing liberal politics of Illinois. One example: It abandons the groups traditional call for an amendment to the state constitution that would eliminate language that forbids any reduction to an employees retirement benefits from the day they are hired. The Civic Committee had urged passage of such an amendment for nearly 20 years.

Derek Douglas, president of the group, acknowledged that calls for a pension amendment were unpopular in the Democrat-dominated legislature. We want to work collaboratively with state leadership to achieve these overarching goals, he said.

Douglas, Civic Committee staff members and volunteer board members have conducted a series of meetings with leaders in state government in order to build support for their proposals.

Reamortization proposal

The plan presented by the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability seems to play toward voters natural wariness: Everybody wants to see Illinois achieve fiscal soundness, until it costs them something out of pocket.

The CTBA proposal is a low-hurt approach. It would build momentum toward a more solvent pension system through the sale of $6.7 billion in pension bonds over an initial seven years. Instead of targeting 90% funding by 2045, the new target would be lowered to 80%.

Proceeds from the bond sales would enable the state to make large up-front payments over that first seven years, and the multiplier effect of that investment is key to the groups estimate that their plan would save $63 billion through 2045.

Advertisement

But bond sales would add hundreds of millions in interest costs to heavily-indebted Illinois. This reduces the cost-effectiveness of the CTBAs approach and could be a negative for credit rating agencies, such as Moodys and Standard & Poors, which already have raised concerns about Illinois high level of debt.

After the experience with Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who siphoned away about a third of $10 billion raised in pension bond sales in 2003 for purposes other than pension funding, taxpayers might be wary of the CTBA approach, too..

In essence, the CTBA plan is tantamount to refinancing a house, while adding a home equity loan in the form of the new pension bonds. It lowers the funding target to 80% and also extends repayment of the existing pension debt for an indeterminate period  tactics that would risk a downgrade from credit rating agencies.

Ralph Martire, executive director of the CTBA said he expected skepticism about the 80% goal. But the skeptics tend to overlook something he believes is more important, he said: The CTBAs plan enhances the states ability to meet its obligations year by year.

Right now, Illinois is in a unique situation of having a plan for funding our unfunded liability that we cant meet, Martire said. We dont have the revenue to get there.

The steep climb to 90% funding under the states existing plan is creating a cash pinch. Its a debt service problem, and its the structure of our debt service thats creating all the havoc in the state, Martire said.

Advertisement

The Civic Committee and CTBA proposals are different approaches toward the same end  reducing the pension debt and, if their math is right, saving taxpayers billions over time.

The Civic Committee plan strikes me as more sound financially: 100% funding is a big deal. The plan also avoids the risks inherent with issuing bonds, and its aggressive moves in the early years would make an impact on credit-rating agencies, whose decisions about creditworthiness can have big financial consequences for the state.

Chicago Tribune Opinion Weekdays Read the latest editorials and commentary curated by the Tribune Opinion team. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy >

Meanwhile, the CTBAs pitch to reduce the states goal to 80% funding of its pension obligation goes against a trend among the states to aim for 100% funding, according to researchers I spoke to for these columns. And pension bonds are a regrettable tool: History shows that when governments borrow money to save money, the tactic often winds up backfiring on the borrower.

Still, both plans are worthy of discussion. The one outcome the state cant afford is to have another set of white papers that make for good reading, but then collect dust in our digital archives.

Part Four of this five-part series is coming on Friday.

David Greising is president and CEO of the Better Government Association.

Advertisement

Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
(Bloomberg) -- Giorgia Meloni is seeking to reassure investors that Italys finances are under control, as markets fret about a ballooning deficit which could trigger a selloff.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The premier and Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti are increasingly aware of the impact that a wider-than-announced deficit could have on bond yields and the ability to finance new measures, according to people familiar with the matter.

They are seeking options to limit the repercussions of worsening economic conditions and the one-time impact of a home-improvements incentive on their upcoming deficit forecast, said the people who asked not to be named on a confidential issue.

The government is planning to limit the deficit shortfall to below 4% next year, said the people, although final numbers have not yet been agreed on. Bloomberg reported earlier that the government is eyeing a deficit around 5% this year without factoring in the impact of the incentive, compared with a previous target of 4.5%. The number could be above 6% with the effect of the incentive.

To help achieve this, Meloni and Giorgetti are banking on economic growth of as much as 1% next year, the people added, but delivering on that wont be easy.

Italy is currently struggling to keep its finances in check amid dire economic conditions across Europe and renewed investor focus on Italys 2.8 trillion ($3 trillion) debt pile. Those worries are reflected in the steady increase in Italys 10-year yield, a barometer of risk.

Italys economic struggles are predicted to continue into next year, with the forecast for 2023 growth lowered again to 0.9%, followed by a 0.7% expansion in 2024, according to a survey conducted by Bloomberg News.

Melonis accounting task is made more complex by the need to include in this years deficit the impact of the so-called Superbonus, which gave property owners tax credits for energy-related home improvements. The incentive program has cost Italy billions.

Newspaper Il Sole 24 Ore reported earlier Thursday that the deficit could reach 7% this year. In a note, the finance ministry said this number is not coherent with current economic data available.

The European Central Banks decision to raise the deposit rate by 25 basis points to a record 4% Thursday, acting for the 10th consecutive time, further dampens the outlook for Italys economy.

While ministers have already publicly aired the possibility of advancing the sale of state assets and pushing through a tax on extra bank profits, theyre now shifting focus to determine if its possible to withdraw commitments to fund Superbonus works that havent already started. Meloni said Wednesday that the value of expected receipts from the banks levy is just under 3 billion.

Meloni and her colleagues are under mounting scrutiny in advance of a deadline before the end of the month to file budget plans, with doubts growing among investors on Italys ability to support its debt mountain.

The right-wing coalition is in a bind as a toxic combination of weak economic growth and the need to accommodate accounting revisions requested by European Union officials impinge on their ability to fulfil pending promises to voters.

Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs Group Inc. this week said weaker growth in the euro area will drag budget revenues lower, upending the market calm and possibly putting an end to the nations bonds outperformance.

Italys bonds have long been considered among the regions riskiest given the governments debt. Yet theyve benefited greatly from an ECB backstop announced last year to keep borrowing costs across the blocs disparate economies in check.

--With assistance from Aline Oyamada, Giovanni Salzano and Richard Bravo.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden suggested Republicans are trying to impeach him because they want to shut down the government, offering his first public remarks on the GOP effort that is at the top of the House agenda.

They just knew they wanted to impeach me, he said at a Democratic fundraiser Wednesday evening in McLean, Va., just outside of Washington. And now, the best I can tell, they want to impeach me because they want to shut down the government.

Will Biden be impeached? What happens in 2024 if Joe Biden and Donald Trump are both impeached?

President Joe Biden links House Republicans' decision to open investigation against him to a possible government shutdown.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., announced Tuesday the House will open a formal impeachment inquiry against Biden over the business dealings of his son, Hunter, and the family finances. The investigation comes as McCarthy is scrambling to win conservative votes to fund government operations beyond Sept. 30 and avoid a government shutdown.

In his remarks, Biden singled out Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., a supporter of former President Donald Trump. Trump, who was impeached twice, has been pushing for Republicans to impeach Biden.

The first day she was elected, the first thing she wanted to do was impeach Biden, Biden said of Greene.

Biden suggested he wont let the possibility of impeachment distract him doing his job.

I get up every day, not a joke, not focused on impeachment, he said. Ive got a job to do. I've got to deal with the issues that affect the American people every single solitary day.

Dig deeper: Confused by talk of a government shutdown? Here's how it could unfold in Congress

Michael Collins covers the White House. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter, @mcollinsNEWS.

Government shutdown: Will Biden impeachment inquiry impact shutdown fight? Here's what House GOP says

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden says GOP impeachment effort linked to shutting down government
Jeremy Clarkson is said to be in active talks with Amazons Prime Video to renew his popular Clarksons Farm series for a fourth season.

In January, it was reported that the streamer had cut ties with the former Top Gear host after his controversial Sun column about Meghan Markle in December 2022.

However, citing multiple sources, Deadline reported on Thursday (14 September) that the company is in talks with Clarkson over season four of his farming documentary series.

The outlet states that while a deal is not finalised, and there could yet be another plot twist, those familiar with the matter said discussions have been positive and there is ambition on both sides to bring the show back.

The Independent has contacted Amazon for comment.

The news comes as Clarkson, 63, is currently filming the docuseries third season, with production set to wrap in October ahead of an expected 2024 premiere date.

In late August, the controversial British broadcaster teased a fantastic update for series three of Clarksons Farm, leading many fans to speculate a new season announcement.

Jeremy Clarkson (Prime Video)

However, 24 hours later, he revealed that his farm had welcomed a HUGE amount of piglets.

Clarksons Farm follows the TV personality as he attempts to make his farm in the Cotswolds profitable. The first two series are available to stream on Prime Video.

Last December, the Grand Tour co-host faced intense scrutiny for his op-ed about the Duchess of Sussex.

In it, Clarkson wrote that he despised Markle on a cellular level and dreamt of the duchess being paraded naked through Britain while a crowd threw excrement at her.

He was publicly reprimanded for the column by his daughter, who said she stood against misogyny, bullying and the treatment of women by the media.

He later issued a lengthy public apology on his Instagram account, saying he felt sick when he realised he had completely messed up in writing the column, which had become UK press watchdog IPSOs most-complained about article ever.

In his apology, Clarkson said: Im just not sexist and I abhor violence against women.

He also revealed he sent an email to Markle and Prince Harry on Christmas Day, admitting his language was disgraceful and that he was profoundly sorry.
Jill Duggar Dillard says she is tired of being silenced, and she's using her voice to share her side of the Duggar family story in her new book, "Counting the Cost."

Jill and her 18 siblings rose to fame as part of TLC's popular series "19 Kids And Counting," which chronicled the life of her parents, Michelle and Jim Bob , as they raised a very large family in Arkansas. The show was canceled in 2015, after her brother Josh Duggar admitted to molesting four of his sisters. She went on to star in her own spinoff series from 2015-2020.

Josh Duggar was later convicted in a separate case of possessing child sex abuse images, and is serving time in federal prison.

Written with her husband Derick Dillard and writer Craig Borlase, "Counting the Cost" sheds light on Jill and Derick Dillard's personal journeys and the inner battles they have fought under what they say is mounting pressure from the Duggar family to stay silent on family matters that were splashed across the headlines.

The cover of Jill Duggar Dillard's new book (Monique Serra Photography. / Courtesy Gallery Books)

In her authors note, the former reality star and mother of three is quick to explain that her book is neither a letter to my family as part of the reconciliation process nor an attempt to shame her family or get their attention.

What it is, she says, is an attempt to be heard.

The degree to which we felt like this book needed to be written, was the degree to which we felt like voices were still being silenced and real harm was continuing to be done by not telling, Jill Duggar Dillard writes in her book.

TODAY.com reached out to Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar for comment and did not get a response. The couple told People in a statement: We love all of our children very much. As with any family, few things are more painful than conflicts or problems among those you love. Weve aimed to deal honorably with our children, our finances, and our other endeavors. While imperfect, it is our intent and desire to live a life that honors Christ. We do not believe the best way to resolve conflicts, facilitate forgiveness and reconciliation, or to communicate through difficulties is through the media or in a public forum so we will not comment. As the future unfolds, we will continue to love our family, pray for them, and enjoy every moment gifted to us to be parents and grandparents.

Jill Duggar Dillard shares many eye-opening revelations in the book. Here are 10 that stood out.

Jill told her father he treated her worse than her pedophile brother

During a mediation session between the Dillards and Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, things got pretty heated. As Jill recalls it in the book, as Jim Bob Duggar pressed his daughter for an apology, she broke down and offered the following response.

You want to know why Im crying? My voice was cracked, my eyes burning. Its that you think Im some kind of horrible person just because I wear pants and have a nose ring, and yet you see (a) girl outside (who does similar things) and praise her. Thats why Im crying, Daddy. Im evolving and changing, just like that girl out there, but you cant see it. You treat me like Im a prodigal whos turned her back on you. You treat me worse than you treat my pedophile brother, she writes.

Jill says her father, Jim Bob, threatened to reduce her inheritance

Jill Duggar Dillard and Derick Dillard say they began asking Jim Bob Duggar to see the contract that she had signed on the eve of her wedding, and fought to be properly paid for their contributions to their TLC shows "19 Kids and Counting" and the follow-up show, "Counting On." The couple even went to a mediation session with Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar.

During this time, Jill Duggar Dillard says her father sent her an email itemizing all of the money he had paid to support her over the past few years and urging her to stop asking him to pay her.

Jill, when Mom and I pass on, you are set to receive 1/19th of everything we own that is set up in a trust for you kids. If you attack us, probably your inheritance will be lowered significantly, she writes that her father told her.

Today (Peter Kramer / NBC)

Jill says she was angry and hurt that her parents went to such lengths to protect Josh

After news broke that Josh Duggar had an Ashley Madison account, Jill Duggar Dillard says her mother called and said they were taking him to a Christian-run rehab center. Jim Bob Duggar also spoke about fending off paparazzi on the journey to the rehab center, all in an attempt to protect his son.

While looking back on the moment, Jill Duggar Dillard says she was hurt to hear that her parents put so much effort into shielding Josh Duggar from the paparazzi, while they asked her to publicly defend the family after it was revealed that Josh Duggar had molested her and her sisters.

Though I love my parents and it made a lot of sense that they would want to protect and care for their child, I couldnt help but think about the lengths that Pops had gone to in order to guard Joshs privacy and keep him from being publicly humiliated. I mentioned this to Derick, and he said that he had noticed the same thing, she writes.

Jill believes she was raised in a cult

While discussing her decision to enroll her eldest son Israel in public school, Jill Duggar Dillard also shared her views of the Institute in Basic Life Principles (a controversial, far-right Christian organization whose beliefs her family follows).

Our decision to enroll Israel in public school represented a significant step on my own journey out from IBLP  an organization that I was finally able to see clearly, she writes. It was a cult, thriving on a culture of fear and manipulation. Derick  who was a perfect example of how a Godly man can thrive in public school  helped challenge my thinking.

Derick and Jill Dillard now. (Monique Serra Photography / Courtesy Gallery Books)

Jill says her father told her she was ruining her life when she got her nose pierced

After getting married, Jill Duggar Dillard began to question some of her familys beliefs, including their opposition to body piercings and pants for women. After researching the Bible on her own time, she decided there was nothing wrong with either.

When Jill Duggar Dillard ran into her family at an amusement park one day, she was wearing leggings and she says her father confronted her later on, saying he was disappointed that she hadn't approached him first, like he says her sister, Jinger Duggar Vuolo, had done when she began wearing pants.

She recalls the encounter in the following book passage, quoting her recollection of what her father said: "'You know, Jinger called and talked with us about her decision before she started wearing pants.' The words stung. Even though shed told me that theyd given her a hard time too, I felt like he was finding me guilty of a double sinnot just wearing pants, but failing to meet the standards Jinger had set when she told them."

When Jill Duggar Dillard announced that she'd decided to get her nose pierced, she says her father left her a voicemail begging her not to do it.

"He told me I was making a huge mistake. He begged me to think about how it was going to affect my little sisters. He said I was ruining my life," she writes.

Jill says her father tried to pit her and Derick against each other

When the Dillards were living in El Salvador doing missionary work, she says TLC asked them to return to the United States for a promotional shoot for Counting On. They had already committed to staying for a certain amount of time, so they politely declined the request.

As pressure built from the network and her family, Jill Duggar Dillard says she felt increasingly stressed about her decision but stuck to her convictions.

One day, she says, Jim Bob Duggar called his daughter and asked her if her husband was influencing her decision.

On all the other calls hed tried to persuade us. Now he was trying to guilt us, she writes. Is this you or is this Derick who is being the problem here? Id never heard Pops say something like that before, and it pierced like a dagger to hear him try to pit us against each other like that. I was speechless. This isnt like you, Sweet Jilly Muffin. Is Derick behind this? Are you having problems financially? Are you depressed?'

Jill says she and her son Samuel nearly died in childbirth

In Chapter Seven, titled Dying. Inside and Out, Jill Duggar Dillard recaps the excruciating experience of giving birth to her second child, Samuel.

After 36 hours of labor, the reality stars doctor ordered an emergency C-section and Jill Duggar Dillards uterus ruptured. She lost nearly half her total blood volume and had a transfusion. It would be days before she met her baby boy, because he was rushed off to a separate hospital with a better NICU, she writes, after he had a stroke.

Doctors were concerned about lasting brain damage for Samuel and the newborn had to use oxygen for quite some time. But scans later showed that there was no permanent brain damage.

Jill says she was afraid to make friends for fear that they would expose family secrets

Fame often comes at a price, and that's something Jill Duggar Dillard says she learned while her family was filming their reality shows. Inevitably, stories get leaked to the press, and you have to wonder which member of your inner circle is responsible. This paranoia followed Jill Duggar Dillard for many years.

"It was hard to shake off that kind of suspicious mindset, and as I tried to make a new life for myself and build new friendships with people, I'd often wonder what their agenda was, or how likely they would be to sell anything I told them to the tabloids. Growing up Duggar had left me paranoid about people," she writes.

Jill says her father offered to send Derick to rehab ... for drinking one beer

As Jill Duggar Dillard and Derick Dillard began to form their own beliefs on matters such as clothing, piercings and more, they decided to try alcohol, something forbidden in her family growing up. When they posted a photo of themselves at dinner with a pina colada next to Jill Duggar Dillard, Jim Bob Duggar didn't make any negative comments.

However, when the patriarch of the Duggar family heard that Derick was drinking a beer, he confronted the couple.

"Pops had made contact soon after and offered to send Derick to the same rehab facility Josh had been to, in the hope of curing Dericks clearly raging alcoholism. Since hed never been drunk or ever had more than two beers in any one sitting, Derick declined," she writes.

Jill says her father snuck into the hospital to get a photo of her second son

Following the birth of her second son, Samuel, hospital protocol allowed for only a few visitors. Jill Duggar Dillard notes that her father wasn't on this list, but he still showed up to the hospital one day and ran into Derick.

When Jim Bob Duggar held out his phone to his son-in-law and said a lot of people were asking about the newborn, Derick Dillard noticed a text from one of his father-in-law's colleagues that read, "Get me a picture of that baby!"

"Derick was fuming. He took out his own phone and messaged (the colleague) soon after. 'Please do not ask other people for pictures of my children. It makes me uncomfortable. Thank you.' (The colleague) responded five minutes later. 'I haven't asked anyone for pictures of your children. I have no idea what you're talking about,'" she writes.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Addressing a federal judge, a lawyer representing a Modesto-based hospital management company stressed that his client back in May wasnt trying to bribe a Central San Joaquin Valley hospital executive when they handed her a $150,000 check and a job offer amid negotiations.

Hamid Rafatjoo, a partner with Raines Feldman Littrell LLP and lawyer for American Advanced Management Inc., told U.S. Judge Rene Lastreto II over Zoom in court on Tuesday that his client wasnt trying to gain competitive advantage in a bidding process to take over operations of bankrupt Madera Community Hospital.

Obviously, there were better ways of handling that process, Rafatjoo said, but it didnt come from a place of trying to bribe anyone.

My client did what it did, he said, adding that the actions took place before he was retained.

A business law expert contacted by The Bee said there was nothing illegal about the offer, though it looks irregular and awkward and the circumstances suggest it should have been fully disclosed in bankruptcy court.

Rafatjoo also took the opportunity Tuesday to tell the judge that AAMIs offer to take over operations of Madera Community Hospital was superior to the current proposed partner and that it should have been considered more seriously months ago.

AAMI is offering to put in $30 million of their own money into the deal, in addition to an allocated state loan of $50 million for Madera Community Hospital, Rafatjoo said.

Were trying to give this estate $30 million dollars, your honor, and we dont understand why no one wants to take it, he said.

I guess well find out, Lastreto, the judge, responded, after asking Rafatjoo to wrap up his comments because he had other matters to get through that day.

$150,000 check and a job offer for hospital executive

Last week, attorneys for the Madera hospital alleged in court documents that AAMI back in May attempted to improperly influence the hospitals decision-making. It reported to the bankruptcy court in a Friday filing that executives at AAMI gave Madera Community Hospital Chief Executive Karen Paolinelli an unsolicited job offer and a $150,000 check made out to her personally during the competitive bidding process to find a financial partner to take over Madera hospital operations.

Paolinelli, who in a court declaration said the interaction made her very uncomfortable, notified the hospitals board vice chair, and then sent a certified letter response returning the check and declining the offer, according to bankruptcy court records. Rafatjoo stressed to the judge Tuesday that AAMI was not trying to gain an unfair advantage.

According to Rafatjoo, AAMI executives at the time believed they were the only party engaged in discussions with the hospital as a potential reopening partner. He said they wanted to make sure Paolinelli was involved with future operations, which is why they made her the offer and offered her the signing bonus.

In the ensuing months, AAMI didnt hear anything but crickets from Madera Community Hospital about their proposal, Rafatjoo said. For the life of me, he said, I cannot understand why no one has said Thank you, how can we get this done?

Faded signs are visible on the wall outside Madera Community Hospital on Monday, July 24, 2023. The hospital closed early this year.

Madera hospital working on deal with reopening partner

AAMI is just one of the interested third parties that Madera hospital has talked to since December, after plans to sell the hospital to Trinity Health, owners of Fresno-based St. Agnes Medical Center, fell through. Any agreement that the hospital enters into is subject to state and court approval.

The hospital closed its doors in late December and filed for bankruptcy in March, leaving 160,000 Madera County residents without access to an acute medical care facility in their county for the better part of a year.

The hospital announced in late July that they signed a letter of intent with Adventist Health, a faith-based, nonprofit health system operating in California, Oregon and Hawaii. The two groups are currently negotiating a management services agreement for Adventist Health to take over hospital operations.

A sign with a handwritten Closed sign stands outside Madera Community Hospitals ER on Monday, July 24, 2023. The hospital closed early this year.

According to the letter of intent, Adventist is not providing its own money and has required millions in state loan funds to be approved for the deal to work. Its unclear why Madera Community Hospital did not accept the AAMI offer. Paolinelli told The Bee in an Aug. 29 email that the hospital board felt Adventist Health would be able (to) serve the health care needs of our community in the future.

A month after the proposed Adventist partnership was announced, AAMI made public their interest to be considered as a potential reopening partner for the shuttered hospital, despite having signed a non-disclosure agreement.

Another bankruptcy hearing is scheduled for Sept. 28 at 9:30 am.
Jodie Turner-Smith attended the Vogue World: London event on Thursday night.

She wore a daring Viktor & Rolf ensemble that included a giant bow worn as a top.

Her outfit also featured long gloves, open-toe heels, and no pants  only underwear-esque bottoms.

Jodie Turner-Smith's latest fashion statement involved little clothing and lots of glamour.

The actor attended the Vogue World: London event at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on Thursday night, and she was photographed wearing one of the most daring red-carpet looks of the year so far.

She sported a giant, black satin bow worn as a top, and a high-cut pair of underwear-style bottoms. She also wore long black gloves and open-toe heels.

Jodie Turner-Smith attends the Vogue World: London event on September 14, 2023. Mike Marsland/Getty Images

The black ensemble was originally designed for Viktor & Rolf's Fall/Winter 2023 runway collection.

Turner-Smith wore it almost exactly as it appeared there but added silver bracelets, statement earrings, and rosy pink makeup to the look.

Jodie Turner-Smith attends the Vogue World: London event on September 14, 2023. Yui Mok - PA Images/Getty Images

The "Murder Mystery 2" star is no stranger to daring fashion, as she's worn back-to-back bold looks throughout this year.

At the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in March, Turner-Smith wore a red-and-black Gucci gown with semi-sheer lace detailing and crystal embellishments. Her outfit helped create one of the best couple outfits seen on the party's red carpet.

Jodie Turner-Smith and Joshua Jackson attend the 2023 Vanity Fair Oscar Party hosted by Radhika Jones at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts on March 12, 2023 in Beverly Hills, California. Daniele Venturelli/Getty Images

And a few months later, she attended the Parsons Benefit in New York City while wearing a see-through Balmain blouse.

The sheer garment had extra long sleeves, a high neckline with a long collar, and a mesh, peplum bustier on top.

Jodie Turner-Smith attends the Parsons Benefit in New York City on May 24, 2023. Arturo Holmes/Getty Images

A wide range of celebrities have attended red-carpet events in daring fashion this year.

Taylor Swift was just seen in two standout looks at the MTV Video Music Awards, and Doja Cat wore a thong-baring gown  which she said she hated  at a recent Victoria's Secret event.

Still, Turner-Smith's latest outfit just might take the cake as one of the boldest celebrity looks so far.

Read the original article on Insider
President Joe Biden has fathered four children from two marriages  though tragically only two are still alive today.

Mr Biden had three children with his first wife, Neilia Biden, whom he married in 1966.

In order of birth, they were Joseph Robinette III, known as Beau ; Robert Hunter; and Naomi Christina, known as Amy.

On 18 December 1972 Neilia was driving with the three children to buy a Christmas tree when their car was hit by a tractor-trailer.

Both Neilia and Naomi Biden were pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital. Naomi was just over a year old at the time.

The two boys survived, but with serious injuries. Mr Biden was sworn into the Senate on 3 January 1973 at the hospital where his sons were recovering.

Senator Biden met future first lady Jill Tracy Jacobs on a blind date in 1975, and the pair were married in 1977. They had a daughter, Ashley Blazer, a few years later.

These are the stories of Beau, Hunter, and Ashley:

Beau Biden

Beau Biden was born on 3 February 1969 in Wilmington, Delaware. He suffered multiple broken bones in the car accident and was hospitalised for several months afterward.

He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1991 and then Syracuse University College of Law, before clerking for Judge Steven McAuliffe of the United States District Court of New Hampshire.

Between 1995 and 2004 he worked for the Department of Justice in Philadelphia, eventually becoming a federal prosecutor in the US Attorneys Office.

He married Hallie Olivere in 2002 and they had a daughter, Natalie in 2004, and a son, Robert, in 2006, who, like his uncle, is known as Hunter.

Beau Biden in 2012 (EPA)

In 2003 Beau joined the Delaware Army National Guard. He was deployed to Iraq in late 2008.

Beau ran for Attorney General of Delaware in 2006 and won, also winning re-election in 2010. During his time in Iraq, he continued in the role, through staff in Delaware.

In 2008 he memorably spoke at the Democratic National Convention after his father was nominated to be vice president, recalling the tragic car accident and his fathers committed parenting afterward.

Before winning his 2010 re-election, he was admitted to hospital and diagnosed with having had a mild stroke. In 2013 he was diagnosed with brain cancer after experiencing disorientation and weakness. A lesion was removed in surgery, and radiation and chemotherapy followed. His cancer went into remission.

Beau announced that he intended to run for Governor of Delaware in 2016, but on 20 May 2015 he was admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. His cancer had returned and he died there 10 days later aged 46.

He is buried at St Josephs on the Brandwine in Greenville, Delaware alongside his mother and sister. His father attends services at the church and often speaks of him with great affection at official events.

Vice president Kamala Harris, who knew Beau well, also spoke fondly of him, referring to him as my dear friend in a speech.

Hunter Biden

Hunter Biden was born on 4 February 1970. In the car crash he sustained injuries to his skull and, like his brother, received months of treatment to recover.

He graduated from Georgetown University in 1992 with a degree in history, before serving as a Jesuit volunteer at a church in Portland, Oregon where he met Kathleen Buhle, whom he married in 1993.

Returning to higher education, Hunter went to Georgetown University Law Centre for a year, before transferring to Yale Law School from which he graduated in 1996.

Hunter had three children with Kathleen: Naomi, named after his late sister; Finnegan, named after Joes mother Jean Finnegan; and Maisy, who went to school with Sasha Obama.

Hunter and Joe Biden (REUTERS)

Kathleen and Hunter separated in 2015, divorcing in 2017. For a time in 2016, Hunter dated his late brothers wife, Hallie.

In 2018, his fourth child was born to Lunden Alexis Roberts in Arkansas, with a judge signing an order declaring Hunters paternity in early 2020.

He married South African filmmaker Melissa Cohen in May 2019 and had a son with her in March 2020.

Professionally, Hunter worked for MBNA America after graduation and then the Department of Commerce, focusing on ecommerce policy from 1998 to 2001.

In 2001 he co-founded the lobbying firm Oldaker, Biden & Belair, and in 2006 he and his uncle, James Biden, bought the international hedge fund Paradigm Global Advisors. He served as CEO for five years.

Also in 2006 he was appointed to the board of directors of Amtrak by President George W Bush, but left in 2009 when his father became vice president.

Since 2009, Hunter has been an investor and lobbyist with a focus on natural resource extraction and technology. He has also held the position of counsel at a law firm and was on the board of directors of the charity World Food Program USA.

Hunter has battled alcohol and drug addiction for many years, and a positive test for cocaine in 2013 saw a new career in the US Navy Reserve cut short after just a month.

His career as an investor has made him the focus of conspiracy theories regarding his fathers political career  specifically concerning his business activities in Ukraine with the firm Burisma, and in China regarding the companies BHR Partners, and Ye Jianming, and CEFC energy.

In 2019 Donald Trump was impeached by the Democrat-run Congress after it emerged he had pressured the Ukrainian president to try to dig up dirt on Hunter Biden and his father in exchange for continued military support and a visit to the White House. Mr Trump was acquitted by Republican allies in the Senate.

Hunter announced that he is under federal criminal investigation for his tax affairs shortly before his father became president.

Three weeks before the 2020 election, a laptop belonging to Hunter that had been abandoned at a repair shop resurfaced. Initial reports from The New York Post suggested that Hunter provided an opportunity for a Burisma advisor to meet with his father. Conservative media jumped on the report, speculating  even to this day  that Hunters laptop ties his father to corruption in Ukraine. Based on the available evidence it is unclear if Hunter did anything wrong.

In an interview with Piers Morgan, Mr Trump said the story made a 17-point difference, appearing to claim it as evidence of his baseless narrative that the results of the 2020 presidential election were stolen from him.

But you know what? Even without that, I won it, I won it big, and I won it easily, he said.

Hunters conduct has continued to be a point of consternation for Republicans during Mr Bidens presidency and a focal point of the Twitter files  internal Twitter documents released by the companys new owner Elon Musk detailing how the platform first moved to block a New York Post story about Hunters laptop before reversing course.

On 14 September 2023, Hunter was indicted on federal gun charges.

Ashley Biden

Ashley Biden was born on 8 June 1981 and is the only child from Joes marriage to Jill Biden.

A graduate of cultural anthropology from Tulane University, she pursued a career in social work, obtaining a masters degree in the discipline from the University of Pennsylvania in 2010.

She spent 15 years as a social worker at the Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth, and their Families. In 2012, Ashley became an associate director of the Delaware Centre for Justice, focusing on criminal justice reform in the state, eventually becoming executive director of the centre until 2019.

Ashley Biden (DNCC via Getty Images)

In 2012 she married Howard Krein, a plastic surgeon, introduced to her by her brother Beau, and in 2017 she launched an ethical fashion brand to raise funds to combat income and racial inequality in the US.

Ashley joined Hunter to introduce their father at the 2020 Democratic National Convention before he accepted the presidential nomination.
A federal judge has sided with Shawnee, dismissing a lawsuit over the citys controversial co-living ban, which limits how many unrelated people can live together.

David Deerson, an attorney with the Pacific Legal Foundation representing the property management company suing the city, told The Star he plans to appeal the ruling to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit.

The city adopted the ordinance last year, prohibiting more than three unrelated people from living together in a single residence. The city only allows more people to live together if they are blood relatives or related by marriage, adoption or guardianship. The ordinance says if one resident is not related to anyone in their household, then the entire household is considered unrelated.

City Council members last year argued that the ordinance aimed to crack down on arrangements where co-living has turned into a commercial enterprise, with homeowners collecting rent as if their single-family homes were apartments. But the idea was met with widespread criticism, as communal living has gained popularity in recent years due to soaring rent and home prices.

Property management company HomeRoom Inc. in May filed a federal lawsuit against the city, looking to overturn the ordinance, saying it violates residents rights. According to its lawsuit, the company aims to provide a solution to the lack of affordable housing, connecting property owners with people seeking roommates.

HomeRoom opened two homes in Shawnee before the city adopted the co-living ban. The lawsuit claims HomeRoom was forced to evict unrelated tenants, and now only subleases homes to blood-related families.

Homeowner Val French also joined in suing the city, arguing that the ordinance rendered her living situation unlawful. Last year, French shared her home with her husband, two adult sons and a sons girlfriend. Because the girlfriend is not related to them, the lawsuit says, the living arrangement was no longer legal.

Attorneys for HomeRoom argued that the ordinance violates residents constitutional rights, and that the citys classification of who can be allowed as a co-living group is discriminatory and arbitrary.

But early on in litigation, U.S. District Court Judge Holly Teeter has sided with the city, granting its motion to dismiss the case.

Shawnee spokesman Doug Donahoo told The Star the city is pleased with the ruling.

The judge ruled that as a corporation, HomeRoom does not have standing to assert constitutional claims on behalf of its tenants. She also found that the ordinance does not violate due process and equal protection under the 14th Amendment. Much of her decision was based on a 1974 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Village of Belle Terre v. Boraas, which held that a zoning ordinance restricting the number of unrelated people from living together does not violate the Constitution.

Deerson said he expected an uphill argument with the court due to the Belle Terre case.

But there have been a lot of developments in the law since then, he said. And that case itself is limited and has been maligned by the academic community. And there have been other developments in related areas of the law that really strongly indicate there is a fundamental right to certain kinds of private intimate associations. And the choice of your living companions is the perfect candidate for that right.

Deerson has maintained that the Constitution protects the right of people to freely choose their living companions. And his argument has relied on more recent case law, addressing the right to intimate association.

That Supreme Court precedent is out of date. Its obsolete and its time for it to be overturned, he said. The district court cant do that. The 10th Circuit cant do it either, but when we get the 10th Circuits analysis, the key question is, is there a fundamental right to freely select your living companions?

Other courts say there is. If the 10th Circuit says there is, that would be fantastic. But if it doesnt and goes the same way as the district court, then youve got federal appellate courts disagreeing about this. And thats when its time for the Supreme Court to come in and clarify.

In her ruling, Teeter wrote that, Plaintiffs have a right to argue for a change in the law, but Belle Terre remains good law and is binding authority this Court must follow.

The judge also declined to rule on another claim from the plaintiffs, which argued that the ordinance exceeded the citys authority in adopting zoning regulations. A matter of state law, Teeter said that issue would be best left up to a state court.
FILE - Bassem Awadallah, one of two former officials accused of helping Jordanian Prince Hamzah try to overthrow his half-brother King Abdullah II, appears on a mobile phone screen as he attends a verdict hearing at a state security court, in Amman, Jordan, on July 12, 2021. Jordan has rejected a US request to release a former top Jordanian official imprisoned in an alleged plot against the Western-allied monarchy, according to his family and lawyer. (AP Photo/Raad Adayleh, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

JERUSALEM (AP)  Jordan has rejected a U.S. request to release a former top Jordanian official imprisoned in an alleged plot against the Western-allied monarchy, according to his family and lawyer.

Bassem Awadallah , a dual Jordanian-American citizen, has spent over two years in Jordanian prison after being convicted of plotting against King Abdullah II with the kings own half-brother. He denies the charges, and his lawyers say he was convicted in a sham trial that lacked due process.

The U.S. State Department requested he be released on humanitarian grounds in March, according to his family and his lawyer. The request came just weeks after he began a hunger strike to protest his imprisonment, resulting in his hospitalization. Jordan rebuked the request earlier this month, according to John Ashcroft , Awadullah's lawyer.

Ashcroft, a former U.S. attorney general, sharply criticized the refusal, noting that Jordan receives considerable aid from the US and should heed its requests. The U.S. gives over $1 billion a year in aid to Jordan, according to the State Department.

When our government requested improperly detained fellow citizen, Bassem Awadallah, be released, King Abdullahs regime without reason said no, said a statement from Ashcroft's office. Our government has been able to convince enemy states to release unjustly detained US citizens. It should be able to convince the king of Jordan to do the same.

The State Department would not confirm whether it had requested Awadallah's release.

In a statement, it said the U.S. Embassy in Amman has been following the case closely since Awadallahs imprisonment and visits him each month. It also said it is monitoring Awadallah's health, without giving any details on his condition.

Jordan's Foreign Ministry declined comment.

Jordan is a close Western ally that hosts hundreds of thousands of Mideast refugees and has long been seen as an island of stability in a volatile region. But there also are deep-rooted economic and social challenges in the country, which borders Israel, the Israel-occupied West Bank, Syria, Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

Awadallah, who once served as a top adviser to the king, and Sharif Hassan bin Zaid, a member of the royal family, were found guilty of sedition and incitement two years ago and sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Awadallah was alleged to have conspired with Prince Hamzah, the kings half-brother, and to have sought foreign assistance in a plot against Abdullah. Hamzah remains under house arrest.

Awadallah was convicted in a closed trial that lasted just six sessions in a military court. The court denied requests by defense lawyers to call witnesses, and prosecutors shared only purported transcripts, but not original audio recordings, from surveillance of the alleged plotters.

Ashcroft said both the trial and the kingdom's refusal of the U.S. request showed a lack of due process.

It is impossible to believe that any responsible, careful, justice-oriented consideration was given by members of King Abdullah IIs regime that resulted in this mockery of internationally-accepted judicial process and arbitrary denial of the U.S. State Departments request, Ashcroft wrote.

Abdullah and Hamzah are sons of King Hussein, who ruled Jordan for nearly half a century before his death in 1999. Abdullah appointed Hamzah as crown prince upon his succession but stripped him of the title in 2004.
Todays Opinion section included a piece by four Evanston residents titled Campaign against Ryan Field rebuild is a Revolt of the Haves.

They began with the origin of this label with Proposition 13 in California in 1978 which capped property taxes. There were some good motivations behind it, but it wasnt written correctly. The resulting loss of revenue for the educational system is an example of The law of unintended consequences. The writers said Prop. 13 destroyed one of the best K-12 systems in the country and also transformed the University of Californias Los Angeles and Berkeley campuses into public Ivy League schools affordable only to wealthy students. Prop. 13 was rightly branded the Revolt of the Haves.

Advertisement

The California higher education system had been the leader for the nation in how to do it right. It has three tiers: community colleges, the California State University System and the University of California system. The writers of this piece didnt mention the two lower tiers. Prop. 13 devastated funding for them, too. For me, it was local and personal. I never heard the label Revolt of the Haves until today.

Comparing the proposed rebuild of Ryan Field to Prop. 13 is not valid. Prop. 13 slashed tax revenues for the entire educational system, after decades of stability and leadership. The financial benefits from a Ryan Field rebuild are anticipated in the future  not monies relied on in the past. The benefits cant go away because theyre not being received now, and werent in the past.

Advertisement

The writers also point out that Wilmette and the haves were fine with the city making the Margarita Inn a permanent place for unhoused people to live 365 days a year. This too is not a valid comparison. Much of the opposition to the Ryan Field rebuild, with concerts, is based on concerns about excessive noise and traffic. There were not these concerns about Margarita Inn.

Its not just the haves who oppose excessive noise and traffic and a drastic, albeit temporary, change in use of a nearby place. In June of this year, there was a lot of community opposition in Chicago to Riot Fest in Douglass Park, Re:SET in Riis Park, and two fests in Harrison Park. None of the neighborhoods surrounding these parks are highly populated with haves. Yet their reasons for opposition are much like those of the opponents of the proposed rebuild and additional uses for Ryan Field. Criticizing opponents of a Ryan Field rebuild with added events because the opponents have above-average income and wealth is an ad hominem attack, not addressing the issues themselves.

 Jean SmilingCoyote, Chicago

What Big Pharma hides

I would like to thank Colleen Grogan (Big Pharma is wrong about Medicares push to negotiate drug prices, Sept. 3) for bringing to light the pharmaceutical industrys hypocrisy in refusing to negotiate drug prices with the government. It is necessary to point this out because Big Pharma somehow manages to conceal their government largesse, while the truth remains largely hidden from public view, mainly available only to those who take the time to read lengthy books on the topic.

What Big Pharma doesnt want us to know is that most drug discoveries occur while government-funded scientists doing basic research spend years sitting and tinkering on a taxpayer-funded bench in a National Institutes of Health or Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency lab. These discoveries do not occur in pharmaceutical industry labs because the results are neither immediate nor assured, making basic research so expensive and tentative that Big Pharma wont fund it. They prefer taxpayer-funded research made available to them by a little-known law, The Bayh-Dole Act of 1980, which permits technology transfer of government-funded discoveries to drug companies (Read Deadly Monopolies by Harriet A. Washington and University, Inc. by Jennifer Washburn.)

Instead of investing in research for new cures and treatments, Big Pharma prefers to spend billions on ubiquitous advertisements. Most Americans are not even aware that the U.S. and New Zealand are the only two countries in the world that allow direct-to-consumer prescription drug advertising (Read The Truth About Drug Companies by Marcia Angell.)

Chicago Tribune Opinion Weekdays Read the latest editorials and commentary curated by the Tribune Opinion team. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy >

I could go on and on about me-too drugs, never-ending evergreened patents, and industry-manipulated drug trials (Read Bad Pharma by Ben Goldacre) and more, but I would have to write a book.

 Sue Ellen Levins, Chicago

Advertisement

Underground Railroad series

Highest praise to Darcel Rockett for the first installment of what promises to be a superb series on the Underground Raiload in Illinois (Sep. 10). This is a beautifully rendered account of the tribulations and accomplishments of those who have long passed, made concrete through the words, experiences and dedication of still-living descendants. History in the abstract is no match for specific discoveries of individuals inspired by family lore or an inherited duffel bag of precious family documents. Terrence Antonio James excellent photos, reproduced large enough to see, dramatically increase the pieces power. This is journalism we need more of. One wishes the Tribune could put bundles of this article and its upcoming companions on Pullman trains to be distributed to those in regions of the country where such knowledge is increasingly considered dangerous contraband.

 Andrew S. Mine, Chicago

Join the conversation in our Letters to the Editor Facebook group.

Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
State Judge Clifton Newman on Thursday delayed setting a trial date on the financial crime charges allegedly committed by ex-banker Russell Laffitte in concert with convicted killer Alex Murdaugh.

During a 24-minute hearing at the Beaufort County courthouse, state attorney generals lead prosecutor Creighton Waters told Newman that Laffitte faces 21 counts of financial crimes involving some $8 million in thefts in various South Carolina counties.

Complicating the situation is Laffittes conviction by a federal jury in Charleston for financial crimes parallel to those he is charged with in state court. Last month, U.S. Judge Richard Gergel sentenced Laffitte to seven years in federal prison for those crimes.

Laffitte is scheduled to report to federal prison on Sept. 21 unless the U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals grants him an appeal bond, his attorney, Mark Moore, told Newman. An appeal bond would allow Laffitte to stay free for months until the Court of Appeals either upholds last Novembers verdict and overturns it.

Moore said he had been hoping for an appeal bond to be granted by the 4th Circuit by this time but has had no word.

State Rep. Todd Rutherford, Laffittes other lawyer, told Newman there is absolutely no reason to move this case forward.

A federal jury decided last year that Laffittes crimes were committed in concert with Murdaugh, who schemed with Laffitte to use Laffittes bank as a vehicle to launder money and plunder bank accounts of Murdaughs former clients. The bank accounts were for Murdaughs former clients who had won millions in court settlements and for whom Laffitte was supposed to serve as steward.

In giving Laffitte seven years in prison, Gergel described the offenses as among the states most notorious financial crimes.

Murdaugh was an unindicted co-conspirator in Laffittes trial, and his name and actions were cited repeatedly during that trial.
The Georgia judge overseeing the massive, 2020 election-related racketeering case against former President Donald Trump and 18 co-defendants has ruled that the former president will not go on trial next month alongside attorneys Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro, both of whom demanded an expedited schedule.

In an order Thursday, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee called the decision to split the sprawling case into multiple trials an absolute necessity, given the complexity of the case and the burden it would create for the states court system.

McAfee said he doubted the Fulton County courthouse could handle a trial for all the defendants at once. He also worried that such a sprawling case would create an unmanageable process for selecting a jury and exacerbate the risk of delays if any defendant or attorney is unexpectedly absent.

Prosecutors had claimed they were prepared to put all 19 defendants on trial together on Oct. 23, but McAfee scoffed at that possibility.

The Fulton County Courthouse simply contains no courtroom adequately large enough to hold all 19 defendants, their multiple attorneys and support staff, the sheriffs deputies, court personnel, and the States prosecutorial team. Relocating to another larger venue raises security concerns that cannot be rapidly addressed, the judge wrote.

McAfees order underscored the significant uncertainties hanging over the case, which charges Trump and 18 co-defendants with conspiring to subvert Georgias election. The judge noted that five of the co-defendants are seeking to transfer their charges to federal court, a challenge that could take months to resolve and raise extraordinary complications if any of their motions are granted.

"How a grant of removal midtrial would impact this case, particularly on the issue of double jeopardy  and overlooking or wrongly adjudicating these legal uncertainties risks automatic acquittal," McAfee wrote.

Though McAfee has not yet set a trial date for Trump, it appears likely to extend deep into 2024 or later. The judge has set a Dec. 1 deadline for the defendants  other than Chesebro and Powell, who are on an expedited timeline  to file any pretrial motions. The judge must also contend with the fact that Trump has two federal criminal trials scheduled for next year, one beginning on March 4 in Washington, D.C. and the other beginning on May 20 in Fort Pierce, Fla.

McAfee said theres a possibility more than two trials will be required to handle all the defendants and he raised the specter of enlisting another state judge, should the necessary timelines intersect. If any defendants opt for a speedy trial this month, McAfee ruled, they will be joined with Chesebro and Powell. However, if any opt for an expedited timeline next month or later, he said he has received assurances that other members of the Fulton County bench stand ready.
Judge rejects request to try all Trump Georgia defendants together next month

A state judge Thursday rejected prosecutors request to try all 19 defendants together in the Georgia 2020 election interference case next month.

The Court joins the skepticism expressed by several federal courts that denying severance always ensures efficiency, especially in mega trials such as this, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee wrote in an order.

McAfees ruling means former President Trump will not be tried in October alongside at least two of his co-defendants who invoked their right to a speedy trial.

It marks a major blow to District Attorney Fani Willis (D), who repeatedly urged McAfee to keep the defendants together and try them at the same time.

Though McAfee did not set a trial date for Trump, his ruling sets a motions deadline of Dec. 1, which would come before any eventual trial. Trump and his 18 co-defendants have all pleaded not guilty to the combined 41 charges they face.

Trump has looked to delay all four criminal cases he faces and previously argued he would not be ready for trial by October.

McAfee wrote in his order that severance is an absolute necessity regardless of whether each defendants showed a particular need.

Additional divisions of the defendants may well be required. That is a decision for another day once the many anticipated pretrial motions have been resolved and a realistic trial date approaches, he wrote.

McAfee also determined that defendants Kenneth Chesebro and Sidney Powell  the two lawyers who last month invoked their right to a speedy trial, expediting their cases  will be tried together, having not satisfied their burden to show severance is necessary.

The judge had said he would do so at a hearing last week.

Chesebro had argued in court filings that he never met Powell, rendering it impossible to try their cases together.

The Defendants judicial economy concerns simply do not outweigh the resources expended through an additional trial, the shuttering of a second judges docket, and the resultant delay to a multitude of other criminal and civil cases, many of which involve inmates in lengthy pretrial confinement, McAfee wrote.

Chesebro and Powells joint trial is set for Oct. 23  the first trial on charges alleging a criminal enterprise was formed to keep Trump in power after he lost the 2020 presidential election.

In his decision, McAfee cited the logistical concerns raised by a 19-defendant trial, suggesting the Fulton County Courthouse contains no courtroom adequately large enough to hold the defendants, their legal teams, prosecutors, court personnel and others.

Relocating to another larger venue raises security concerns that cannot be rapidly addressed, McAfee wrote in the filing.

Willis had insisted that the countys courthouse could accommodate a singular trial with all 19 defendants.

McAfee also questioned whether trying all the defendants together would have an outsized effect on the local justice system, sidelining local defense counsel from handling other cases and bogging down the courts docket.

We must consider the ripple effects of a months-long, multi-defendant trial on the local criminal justice system, he said.

McAfees ruling also rejects requests from former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and multiple other defendants to pause their prosecutions as they attempt to move their charges to federal court.

A federal appeals court is still weighing a separate pause request from Meadows.

However, as appeals to the Eleventh Circuit and the United States Supreme Court could take months to resolve even if expedited, the Court does not intend to delay pretrial litigation, McAfee wrote. Pending the removal appeals, Defendants are expected at a minimum to review discovery and prepare their pretrial motions. The arguments within these motions should mirror whatever would be filed if this case is removed, lessening concerns regarding unnecessarily expended resources.

Updated at 9:57 a.m. ET

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A state judge Thursday rejected prosecutors request to try all 19 defendants together in the Georgia 2020 election interference case next month.

The Court joins the skepticism expressed by several federal courts that denying severance always ensures efficiency, especially in mega trials such as this, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee wrote in an order.

McAfees ruling means former President Trump will not be tried in October alongside at least two of his co-defendants who invoked their right to a speedy trial.

It marks a major blow to District Attorney Fani Willis (D), who repeatedly urged McAfee to keep the defendants together and try them at the same time.

Though McAfee did not set a trial date for Trump, his ruling sets a motions deadline of Dec. 1, which would come before any eventual trial. Trump and his 18 co-defendants have all pleaded not guilty to the combined 41 charges they face.

Trump has looked to delay all four criminal cases he faces and previously argued he would not be ready for trial by October.

McAfee wrote in his order that severance is an absolute necessity regardless of whether each defendants showed a particular need.

Additional divisions of the defendants may well be required. That is a decision for another day once the many anticipated pretrial motions have been resolved and a realistic trial date approaches, he wrote.

McAfee also determined that defendants Kenneth Chesebro and Sidney Powell  the two lawyers who last month invoked their right to a speedy trial, expediting their cases  will be tried together, having not satisfied their burden to show severance is necessary.

The judge had said he would do so at a hearing last week.

Chesebro had argued in court filings that he never met Powell, rendering it impossible to try their cases together.

The Defendants judicial economy concerns simply do not outweigh the resources expended through an additional trial, the shuttering of a second judges docket, and the resultant delay to a multitude of other criminal and civil cases, many of which involve inmates in lengthy pretrial confinement, McAfee wrote.

Chesebro and Powells joint trial is set for Oct. 23  the first trial on charges alleging a criminal enterprise was formed to keep Trump in power after he lost the 2020 presidential election.

In his decision, McAfee cited the logistical concerns raised by a 19-defendant trial, suggesting the Fulton County Courthouse contains no courtroom adequately large enough to hold the defendants, their legal teams, prosecutors, court personnel and others.

Relocating to another larger venue raises security concerns that cannot be rapidly addressed, McAfee wrote in the filing.

Willis had insisted that the countys courthouse could accommodate a singular trial with all 19 defendants.

McAfee also questioned whether trying all the defendants together would have an outsized effect on the local justice system, sidelining local defense counsel from handling other cases and bogging down the courts docket.

We must consider the ripple effects of a months-long, multi-defendant trial on the local criminal justice system, he said.

McAfees ruling also rejects requests from former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and multiple other defendants to pause their prosecutions as they attempt to move their charges to federal court.

A federal appeals court is still weighing a separate pause request from Meadows.

However, as appeals to the Eleventh Circuit and the United States Supreme Court could take months to resolve even if expedited, the Court does not intend to delay pretrial litigation, McAfee wrote. Pending the removal appeals, Defendants are expected at a minimum to review discovery and prepare their pretrial motions. The arguments within these motions should mirror whatever would be filed if this case is removed, lessening concerns regarding unnecessarily expended resources.

Updated at 9:57 a.m. ET

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
FILE - David Ermold, right, files to run for Rowan County Clerk in Kentucky as Clerk Kim Davis looks on, Dec. 6, 2017, in Morehead, Ky. Davis denied Ermold and his husband a marriage license in 2015 because she was opposed to gay marriage for religious reasons. Ermold and his partner won a jury verdict for damages against Davis on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. (AP Photo/Adam Beam, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

A federal jury has awarded $100,000 to a Kentucky couple who sued former county clerk Kim Davis over her refusal to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples.

Davis, the former Rowan County clerk, drew international attention when she was briefly jailed in 2015 over her refusal, which she based on her belief that marriage should only be between a man and a woman.

A jury in Ashland, Kentucky, awarded David Ermold and David Moore each $50,000 after deliberating on Wednesday, according to lawyers for Davis. A second couple who sued, James Yates and Will Smith, were awarded no damages on Wednesday by U.S. District Judge David Bunning.

Bunning sent Davis to jail for five days in 2015 after holding her in contempt of court. She was parodied on Saturday Night Live and embraced by conservative politicians who traveled to Kentucky to support her.

Davis was released only after her staff issued the licenses on her behalf but removed her name from the form. Kentucky's state legislature later enacted a law removing the names of all county clerks from state marriage licenses.

Bunning ruled last year that Davis violated the constitutional rights of the two couples. In the ruling, Bunning reasoned that Davis cannot use her own constitutional rights as a shield to violate the constitutional rights of others while performing her duties as an elected official.

The trials held this week were held to decide damages against Davis. The former clerk had argued that a legal doctrine called qualified immunity protected her from being sued for damages by the couples.

Mat Staver, founder of Liberty Counsel, which represented Davis in the case, said in a release Wednesday they look forward to appealing this decision and taking this case to the U.S. Supreme Court.

The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal from Davis lawyers in the case in 2020.

Ermold and Moore had a highly publicized showdown with Davis at the Rowan County clerk's office in 2015 after they asked for a marriage license with news cameras surrounding them. When she refused, Moore asked under whose authority was she acting. She replied, under God's authority.

Ermold unsuccessfully ran for clerk of Rowan County in 2018, when Davis was defeated by another Democrat. Before running, Ermold and Moore returned to Davis' office to file to run for clerk, and Davis, who handled election filings, helped Ermold during a brief but cordial meeting.
On Tuesday, a landmark trial begins that will expose what The Washington Post calls the Biden administrations aggressive posture on antitrust, which essentially seeks to punish consumers of Googles internet search engine.

The Department of Justice alleges that Googles position as the default search engine on most web browsers and Android smartphones should be dismantled.

From the beginning, the Biden administrations novel and aggressive antitrust theories have raised eyebrows. This can be seen in the Federal Trade Commissions forthcoming case against Amazon Prime, a service beloved by American consumers.

Similarly, internet users see Google as the best search engine, and they overwhelmingly prefer it. American consumers strong preference for Googles search engine does not transform this incredibly successful product into an antitrust violation.

However, President Joe Bidens antitrust enforcers claim they know better than consumers. Embracing the governments viewpoint would transform antitrust law into a protection racket for the governments preferred businesses.

Antitrust law should protect consumers

For decades, American courts have recognized famed antitrust scholar Judge Robert Bork, whose key insight was that antitrust law is, and should be, about protecting consumers  not competitors.

Market competition in all American industries produces better products and services for consumers, and as a result, consumers, not the government, choose which products succeed. There is no antitrust violation just because consumers significantly prefer one companys superior product.

Split up Amazon, Prime and AWS? If Biden's FTC breaks up Bezos' company, consumers lose.

The DOJ lawsuit against Google casts consumer preferences aside. The government contends that Google has acted anti-competitively by signing agreements with web browsers (such as Apples Safari and Mozillas Firefox) that make Google the initial search engine on just-installed browsers. But to succeed in court, the DOJ must prove that the alleged conduct excludes others from competing and thus harms consumers.

These agreements do not preclude competition for two main reasons. First, these agreements dont require exclusive use of Googles search engine. Rather, they are akin to a cereal brand paying for eye-level shelf space in the grocery store, which no one thinks is an antitrust violation.

Google is simply paying to promote its product. But just as when shopping for groceries, consumers can choose differently if the competing product is better. Browsers can and do feature other search engines on their home pages. And consumers can easily change the default search engine on their browsers with just a few clicks.

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.

The DOJs theory here is thus far different from the antitrust lawsuit it brought two decades ago against Microsoft. In that case, the government argued that Microsoft violated antitrust laws by categorically prohibiting internet providers from promoting (or even in some cases permitting) alternative browsers besides its own.

Here, by contrast, Googles status as the "default" search engine presents no meaningful barrier to consumer choice. Most consumers dont use another search engine. Indeed, consumers overwhelmingly opt for Google even when presented with alternatives: The most searched term on Microsofts Bing, for example, has been Google.

Consumers prefer Google

Second, companies like Apple and Mozilla design their web browsers to offer an initial default search engine because consumers demand it.

For instance, Mozilla has, in the past, used Yahoo as the default search engine for Mozillas Firefox browser. But that move turned consumers against Firefox, so Mozilla returned to using Google as the default search engine to improve the user experience and performance.

Apples Safari browser, too, makes Google the default search engine because  in Apples own words  Googles search engine is the best. Google is thus the default search engine on these browsers because it won the competition for consumer preference.

The DOJs additional claims regarding Googles search engine on Android fare no better. Googles agreements with Android device manufacturers and carriers cannot be viewed in a vacuum that pretends Apple iPhones dont exist.

As with web browsers, Googles status as a preinstalled app on Android devices is simply the initial default. An Android smartphone user can easily change the default search engine, delete the preinstalled Google search app or replace it with another search engines app.

Gannett CEO: Here's why we are suing Google for deceptive business practices

Even DOJs own expert fatally undermined its case. The expert admitted that, when given a choice of default search engines on a new smartphone, consumers voluntarily choose Google "more than 90% of the time."

In fact, Google remains just as popular in Europe even after the European Union required it to offer users a choice of default search engines on new phones upon setting up.

Ultimately, the DOJ lawsuit rests on the paternalistic theory that Googles search dominance must be bad even though consumers overwhelmingly prefer and self-select for its product. Successfully obtaining market share by offering a superior product is not an antitrust violation.

This case should be added to the long list of Bidens losses in antitrust cases.

Barbara Comstock is a former congresswoman and delegate from Virginia and a senior adviser at Baker Donelson. Comstock also is an adviser to NetChoice, a trade association that includes Google as a member.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden vs. Google: Internet users will lose if DOJ lawsuit succeeds
A Canton man wiped a tear from his one eye Thursday afternoon after hearing that a Summit County jury had found him not guilty of murder and other charges related to the November shooting of an Akron man.

The jury deliberated for about six hours before announcing they had a verdict about 3 p.m.

Were pleased with the verdict, said Noah Munyer, who represented Buchanan with attorney Jacob Will. We believe justice is served.

Darrell Buchanan waits for his murder trial to start in Summit County Common Pleas Judge Alison McCarty's courtroom. A jury acquitted him of all charges.

Summit County Common Pleas Judge Tammy OBrien, who handled the verdict reading for Judge Alison McCarty (who was out of town), said Buchanan will be released from custody for this case.

Munyer said Buchanan has a probation violation related to the murder case that will need to be addressed prior to his release.

The Summit County Prosecutors Office declined to comment on the verdict.

Case dropped against co-defendant after she is found dead

Buchanan, 38, from Canton, was arrested in the Nov. 30, 2022, shooting death of Joseph Hall, 38, in the 1300 block of Brandon Avenue in Akrons Goodyear Heights neighborhood.

Hall was found lying on the living room floor with a gunshot wound to the chest. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Suzanne Thomas, 33, of Canton, was also charged in the case but was never taken into custody. The case against her was dismissed after she was found dead in a Canton Township scrapyard in April. Prosecutors say her death wasnt tied to Halls slaying.

Prosecutors say Buchanan responded to Facebook request

Buchanans trial started Monday and wrapped up Wednesday afternoon. Jurors began deliberating at 9 a.m. Thursday.

Prosecutors said Thomas put a message on Facebook last November, saying she needed someone with a gun to go with her to an Akron mans house to help her with a disagreement over a car. Thomas said she was willing to pay $100 for his service.

Prosecutors said Darrell Buchanan agreed to assist Thomas, but rather than simply scaring Joseph Hall, shot and killed him.

All the states going to ask you to do is to hold Darrell Buchanan accountable for that which he chose to do, Assistant Prosecutor Dan Sallerson said during his opening statement.

Darrell Buchanan listens as Assistant Summit County Prosecutor Dan Sallerson gives his opening statement in Buchanan's murder trial. Buchanan was acquitted of all charges.

Sallerson said Buchanan admitted that he talked to Thomas using an alias on Facebook and met with her on the morning of the shooting. He said the conversation between Thomas and Buchanan was on Thomas phone but not on Buchanans.

Defense attorneys, though, said Buchanan, who was partially identified because he has one eye, wasnt the shooter. They said there are lots of questions that remain unanswered, such as what the disagreement was between Hall and Thomas and the extent of their relationship.

We think this case might be more about what we dont know, said Jacob Will, who is representing Buchanan with Attorney Noah Munyer.

Darrell Buchanan, left, and Noah Munyer, one of his attorneys, listen as Attorney Jacob Will gives his opening statement in Buchanan's murder trial. Buchanan was found not guilty on all charges.

Jurors find Buchanan not guilty of all charges

Jurors announced they had a verdict about 3 p.m. Wednesday.

They found Buchanan not guilty of all the charges he faced  two counts of murder and one count each of felonious assault and having a weapon while under disability, a charge that means a person was prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior conviction.

Loved ones of Hall who were in court for the verdict reading declined to discuss the outcome.

Will, Munyer and Buchanans family members, were pleased with the result.

Hes looking forward to returning to his family and to beginning the process of putting his life back together, Munyer said.

Stephanie Warsmith can be reached at swarsmith@thebeaconjournal.com, 330-996-3705 and on Twitter: @swarsmithabj.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Darrell Buchanan acquitted of murder in Summit County trial
Last month, 85,000 Kaiser Permanente employees launched a strike authorization vote.

This week, nearly 60,000 of them  mostly in California  voted yes to a strike.

Those employees will strike if an agreement isn't reached with Kaiser Permanente by September 30.

Over the last several weeks, 85,000 healthcare workers across the United States have been voting on whether or not to authorize a strike.

Today, about 60,000 of them have so far voted "Yes," according to a statement from SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West. The rest of the votes are expected in the coming days.

They all work for Kaiser Permanente, a private healthcare company with hundreds of facilities across the country  including 39 hospitals and 715 medical offices  serving more than 12 million people.

The Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions represents workers in 95% of these facilities, meaning more than 11 million people who rely on Kaiser Permanente could be affected.

A strike hinges on whether or not the employees can reach a deal with Kaiser Permanente by September 30. If they fail and the workers walkout, it would be the largest healthcare strike in US history.

The SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West is a member of the Coalition located in California, which by itself represents about 70% of the members of the Coalition.

Kaiser Permanente healthcare employees in the Coalition in Washington, Oregon, and Colorado have also voted to authorize the strike.

This means the overwhelming majority of unionized Kaiser Permanente healthcare employees will strike, even as voting continues in three more states and Washington, DC.

Wayne Davis, a spokesperson for Kaiser Permanente, says the company is "confident" they will reach an agreement with the union ahead of September 30.

"We have two more bargaining sessions scheduled for next week," Davis wrote to Insider. "Our priority is to reach an agreement that ensures we can continue to provide market-competitive pay and outstanding benefits."

The 85,000 members of the Coalition make up roughly 40% of all Kaiser Permanente employees across seven states and Washington, DC. They serve in a wide range of roles, including as registered nurses, admissions staff, phlebotomists, surgery assistants, and more, Insider previously reported.

A strike could halt service at some of Kaiser Permanente's 39 hospitals, Keven Dardon, a patient access representative for a Kaiser Permanente hospital in Oregon and a bargaining team representative for his union, SEIU Local 49, previously told Insider.

Kaiser Permanente has "comprehensive plans to ensure continued access to needed health care service" if a strike occurs, Davis wrote.

Short-staffing is the No. 1 concern for Kaiser Permanente employees. Staffing shortages harms both patients and employees, Miriam De La Paz, union organizer and a Kaiser Permanente employee of almost 20 years, previously told Insider.

Davis said Kaiser Permanente and the Coalition are working together to accelerate hiring, setting a goal to hire 10,000 new employees for Coalition-represented roles by the end of the year.

"Kaiser Permanente's efforts to date have resulted in nearly 9,000 positions filled, and we are aggressively recruiting to fill more," Davis wrote. "About 96% of candidates for Coalition-represented positions accept our employment offers  significantly above the industry average."

This story is developing. Please check back for updates.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A Kansas City establishment has earned a top 10 spot for the best bars and restaurants to enjoy champagne.

The Champagne Bureau USA released its second annual list, which includes honorees in places such as Boston, New Orleans, New York and Sacramento.

Two Kansas City-area bars abruptly close on same day

Ca Va, 4149 Pennsylvania Ave., became the areas first champagne bar in 2014. It features a wide selection of champagne and sparkling wine from places such as South Africa, England and Missouri.

Its niche is sourcing wine from small producers who know their terroir and nurture their grapes, according to Ca Vas website. Howard Hanna, a James Beard Award semifinalist, is among the owners.

In 2018, Ca Va also was recognized by Food & Wine magazine as part of a feature highlighting Kansas Citys momentum in the cocktail scene. It described Ca Va as a welcome respite in a section of town with a bit of a rowdy, late-night rep that exudes romantic Parisian vibes.

See the full list in the Kansas City Business Journal.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
A Kansas City man has pleaded guilty to murder after setting a fire that killed a 96-year-old woman in her Caldwell County home last year.

Harold Edwards Jr., 39, admitted to second-degree murder and other felony crimes during a hearing Tuesday in Caldwell Countys division of the 43rd Judicial Circuit Court. He admitted to killing 96-year-old Lorene Fickess, a stranger to him, who died a few days after celebrating Mothers Day with her children and grandchildren.

On the morning of May 10, 2022, firefighters were dispatched to a suspicious series of fires in Caldwell County that were reported within a two-hour window. The fires, all of which were later determined to be arson, strained the resources of emergency responders in the rural community that morning.

The first fire was reported around 8:30 a.m. at Fickess home near Southwest State Route D and Southwest Colt Drive in Polo, Missouri, a town of about 500 residents, 50 miles northeast of Kansas City. A neighbor tried to enter the house to save Fickess but could not get through the door, authorities said.

The house was fully engulfed by the time firefighters arrived. The womans body was later discovered among the rubble.

The other two structure fires were reported along the same rural highway within a six-mile span. The second was roughly three miles north near Mirabile Drive, and the third fire was spotted by a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper three miles further north near Kingston.

Both of the houses were vacant. Authorities determined someone broke inside each residence to set the fires.

Witnesses near the Fickess home told police of a brief encounter with a man driving a black SUV.

He had stopped in the road, they said, and asked whether everyone was OK while the fire was still burning. The man, later identified by police as Edwards, drove away but later returned and spoke with one of the witnesses, according to court documents.

Detectives came to suspect the same SUV was at the other two crime scenes based on surveillance footage and witness statements. An anonymous tip later came in where the caller identified Edwards as being responsible for the fires.

A Caldwell County detective obtained a search warrant for Edwards cellphone location history. The cellphone was determined to have been at all three locations at the time the fires were set, according to court documents.

During the court hearing Tuesday, prosecutors dropped 13 felony charges against Edwards and agreed to make certain recommendations concerning his sentence in exchange for the guilty plea, according to court records. Circuit Judge Jason A. Kanoy ordered an assessment report be completed before sentencing takes place.

In addition to the murder, Edwards pleaded guilty to three Class D felony counts of possessing images of child sexual abuse.

Authorities have said the images were found on Edwards cellphone when he was arrested. There was no apparent connection with the arsons.

Online court records showed no scheduled date for Edwards sentencing as of Wednesday.
After seeing the success of a pilot program that aims to ease food insecurity for the disabled community in Chicagos Austin neighborhood, organizers are looking to expand the program to serve 10 times as many clients.

The Mayors Office for People with Disabilities started the in-home delivery pilot in February with the help of the Vivery Idea Lab, an organization that aids food banks and pantries with a centralized find food map and digital tools. The program is a partnership with the Community Safety Coordination Center and the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

Advertisement

Each of the 100 participants receives a box of pantry staples at the beginning of the month from one of four food pantries in the area, including Mission of Our Lady of the Angels, Circle Urban Ministries, Hope Community Church and Iglesia Evangelica. The boxes are categorized as standard, vegetarian, dairy and nondairy. A box of produce is provided in the latter part of the month by either Forty Acres Fresh Market or Dions Chicago Dream, the nonprofit behind Dream Fridge, Dream Vault and Dream Deliveries, all of which aid residents living in food deserts across the city and suburbs, according to Ashley Friend, managing director of the Vivery Idea Lab.

Basically, by month three, we knew we had something special here that we wanted to keep going, said Friend, a former leader at Lakeview Pantry, which is now called Nourishing Hope. Vivery was built in partnership with the Food Depository to be a find food tool for food banks and pantries. We have been working in the Austin community for about 2 years, really trying to understand the local challenges to accessing nutritious food and trying to build technological solutions that can help to alleviate barriers.

Advertisement

Circle Urban Ministries outreach coordinator Darriels Anderson, left, and assistant coordinator Juwanna Pratcher bag food for deliveries on Sept. 7, 2023. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)

The Thierer Family Foundation launched the endeavor and funded the first six months. The second six months are being funded by the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Friend said. And plans are being made to expand the pilot program to more recipients and more Chicago communities.

As of August, the program has distributed over 27,000 pounds of food with more than 1,000 deliveries to 100 Austin residents. Friend says Vivery wants that number to grow to 1,000 people within the disabled community in five other neighborhoods in Chicago, including another 400 people in the Austin area. Replicating the Austin model, Vivery would to go into each community, connect with the leaders combating food insecurity and work with them to build the network further.

The Rev. Steve Epting of Hope Community Church said its food pantry has been active for 15 years. During the pandemic, he said, the pantry saw a 300% increase in clients. Epting said about 40% of the population that uses Hopes food pantry has some type of disability.

We serve on average about 1,000 people a month, so it only made sense of us to partner with Ashley and her team to ... be able to deliver to those in need, Epting said.

He added that the partnership between service agencies and the community is important to keep things growing. Having food access, having delivery, having people to sort and serve  all of those things dont come from one place, one source, Epting said. Its a collective partnership agreement that we have and we depend on each other to serve our community.

Vernia Palmer, a longtime Austin resident, signed up for the pilot because her mobility challenges made it difficult to get to a pantry and painful to wait in line for food. She called the program a blessing that benefits those like her.

A recent survey by Vivery showed that the average age of program participants is 56, and 85% are women with no children in the home. Survey participants said transportation, mobility challenges and wait times at food pantries were the biggest barriers they faced.

Many food pantries are in the basement, so you either have to use stairs, which make them not accessible, or you have people who have communication access needs or somebody whos been diagnosed with low vision who may not be able to navigate and need to be led through a food pantry or someone who is hard of hearing and may not feel welcome or be able to communicate at the pantry, said Rachel Arfa, commissioner for the Mayors Office for People with Disabilities.

Advertisement

Arfa said a benefit of the pilot program was the creation of 38 jobs for residents in the Austin and Garfield Park communities, so those who deliver the food to participants come from the community they serve.

Participants get the same set of drivers each time so they get to know the people, Friend said. We heard one story of one of the drivers setting up somebodys router for them.

Circle Urban Ministries outreach coordinator Darriels Anderson, left, gives bags of food to delivery driver Jessica Sanabria on Sept. 7, 2023. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)

Arfa talked about a participant who was excited to receive cherries in a delivery. The participant said itd been years since they had cherries. Friend said thats the kind of thing many people take for granted.

Arfa said the pandemic taught us how technology can be an effective tool. For example, it made the routing infrastructure more efficient for those at the food pantries and food banks. She hopes technology continues to help make lives easier for those in the disabled community.

With the pandemic, it became easier to expose the access gaps in our system. ... We want to make sure that nobody is left behind, Arfa said. One thing I think about is making sure that we dont forget the lessons we learned after the pandemic. Were not going back to what we had. We should continue to expand what we have learned and to match that going forward.

drockett@chicagotribune.com
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment this week warned residents across the state about increased risk of infection by the West Nile virus.

Residents should be on the lookout for mosquitoes, which carry the virus and can infect humans and other species like horses and birds. The health department said most infections happen in the late summer and early fall.

The state health department said 22 human cases of the virus have been reported in Kansas this year, including three deaths.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture has also confirmed seven cases of the virus in horses in Barber, Butler, Douglas, Ford and Pratt counties.

Officials issued high-risk warnings for all regions of the state, except for the southeast region, where residents are at a moderate risk.

In one notable local case, Chiefs radio broadcaster Art Hains returned to call games during the 2023 preseason after contracting West Nile virus in September 2022. The virus caused Hains health to deteriorate, and he was airlifted to the University of Kansas Medical Center to receive care.

A report from the Springfield News-Leader noted that Hains had paralysis in his body that extended from head to toe at one point.

What is West Nile virus?

The West Nile virus causes an illness with flu-like symptoms. Those can include fever, headache, muscle and joint aches, nausea and fatigue.

Its the most common mosquito-borne disease in the United States. The virus does not spread from person to person, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Around one in five people who are infected develop a fever and other fever-related symptoms, and about one out of 150 infected people develop swelling of the brain or brain tissue. In extreme cases, the virus can be fatal. There is no vaccine or medication to treat the virus, but if youve had it before, youre immune to it.

How does Kansas determine the risk of West Nile virus?

The Kansas health department determines the risk level based on the temperature  mosquitoes breed more in hot weather  the number of mosquitoes in the area and the number of people infected with West Nile virus.

Were right in the middle of our peak timeframe for WNV transmission here in Kansas, and with more widespread virus activity this year than in the previous several years, its important to take mosquito bite prevention measures to protect yourself, your family, and livestock against all mosquito-borne illnesses, Dr. Erin Petro, state public health veterinarian, said in a written statement.

How do I stay safe from West Nile virus?

The Kansas health department recommends the following prevention measures:

If you go outside, use insect repellent. Officials recommend using a repellent with an EPA-registered active ingredient on skin and clothing, which includes DEET, picaridin or lemon or eucalyptus oil.

Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn hours, so keep the insect repellent on you during these hours. People with weakened immune systems should consider limiting how long theyre outside during these times.

Make sure you have good screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.

Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets, barrels and pet dishes that are left outside. You should also replace the water in your bird baths once a week if you have one.

Drain the water out of your swinging tire holes by drilling holes in them.

If theyre not in use, keep kiddie pools empty and on their sides.

Be sure to check the Kansas Department of Health and Environments West Nile virus tracker to learn about your communitys current risk level.
House attorney Erin Epley prepares to cross examine Austin Klinghorn, Associate Deputy Attorney General for Legal Counsel, at the impeachment trial of Attorney General Ken Paxton at the Capitol on Thursday September 14, 2023.

Closing arguments in Ken Paxton 's impeachment trial expected Friday

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who is presiding over suspended Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's impeachment trial, adjourned the proceeding's eighth day around 6:15 p.m. Thursday but not before getting assurances from House prosecutors and Paxton's defense team that they will present closing arguments Friday.

Tony Buzbee , the lead attorney in Paxton's defense team, announced around 5:30 p.m. that he would not call any more witnesses to the stand and was resting the case. Rusty Hardin, the lead prosecutor, rested the Texas House impeachment managers' case on Wednesday.

The trial's ninth day is expected to start at 9 a.m. Friday.

Paxton impeachment trial live updates: Closing arguments expected Friday; verdict to follow.

Paxton, who is facing possible removal from office on 16 charges, including bribery and abuse of office, has been suspended without pay since the House on May 27 voted overwhelmingly to impeach him. Two-thirds support from the Senate, or 21 of 30 eligible members, will be required to find Paxton guilty of any charge. If Paxton is found guilty of even one charge, he will be removed from office. Senators could then take up a second vote to permanently bar Paxton from holding elected office in Texas.

Paxton's defense attorneys rest their case

About 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Tony Buzbee, who is representing suspended Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in his impeachment trial, announced the defense wasn't calling any more witnesses and was resting its case.

The announcement came toward the end of the trial's eighth day, and the first and only day the defense called witnesses. Buzbee's team called four witnesses Thursday.

Buzbee's announcement also came after defense lawyers questioned Grant Dorfman, deputy first assistant at the attorney general's office.

Dorfman in great detail discussed the $3.3 million settlement the attorney general's office hammered out with some of the whistleblowers, which led to the impeachment probe in the first place.

Members of the Texas House overwhelmingly voted on May 27 to impeach Paxton after the House's General Investigating Committee scrutinized Paxton's request that the Texas Legislature fund the settlement.

HR director denies connection between whistleblowers' complaints, firings

During the afternoon session of suspended Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's impeachment trial Thursday, lawyers grilled Henry De La Garza, the attorney general's human resources director, on the termination of several office employees who complained about Paxton's possible misconduct to the FBI.

De La Garza testified that the attorney general's office didn't improperly fire several whistleblower employees after they reported to federal officials that they believed Paxton misused the attorney general's office's resources to help Nate Paul, an Austin real estate developer and Paxton campaign donor. Instead, the employees were fired because they couldn't work well with their direct supervisor, Brent Webster, Paxton's newly named first assistant, he said.

"In many ways it was a situation of an employee with a new boss having an insubordinate or unprofessional tone toward a new boss and not following directives of the new boss," De La Garza said.

In his cross examination, House prosecutor Daniel Dutko laid out the dates the whistleblowers reported Paxton to the FBI and the dates they were fired, all of which were within days or weeks.

"Are you familiar with the phrase, 'There are no coincidences in Austin?'" Dutko asked, throwing back at the defense a phrase they'd used earlier in the trial.

Attorney general aide denies Paxton acted improperly in accessing information

In testimony Thursday morning, Austin Kinghorn, the Texas attorney general's associate deputy for legal counsel, defended his boss, saying Ken Paxton did not improperly access information to benefit Nate Paul, an Austin real estate developer and Paxton campaign donor at the center of several impeachment charges against Paxton.

"There's an old saying in the legal profession that his names' on the wall," Kinghorn said. "It's his agency."

Kinghorn's assertion came under questioning by Paxton's defense attorney Chris Hilton, who took a leave from his job at the attorney general's office to defend his boss at the impeachment trial.

Hilton pressed Kinghorn about an impeachment charge that accuses Paxton of "improperly (obtaining) access to information held by his office."

Kinghorn contended that because Paxton was the top official in the office, it wasn't possible for him to improperly access a file.

Kinghorn also testified that he wasn't aware of any criminal conspiracies involving misuse of the office's materials.

"I'm still here," Kinghorn said. "I'm proud of the work we do. Im proud to serve General Paxton."

House prosecutor Erin Epley, however, questioned Kinghorn on his loyalty to the state and citizens of Texas compared with his allegiance to Paxton.

Epley asked Kinghorn who he would pick if he had to choose between Paxton and the state of Texas.

"I do not see them in conflict," Kinghorn said.

Paxton's lawyers discuss FBI brief on Nate Paul

Attorneys for suspended Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton questioned Justin Gordon, the open records division chief at the attorney general's office, over the office's review of a request in 2020 from lawyers for Nate Paul, an Austin real estate developer and Paxton campaign donor.

Paul in 2020 submitted a request to the Texas Department of Public Safety for an FBI brief related to a 2019 federal raid of his home and business in connection to an investigation into suspicions of bank, wire and securities fraud. In line with regular processes, the DPS, which participated in the raid, asked Paxton's office to weigh in on whether it should release the confidential information.

Paxton did discuss the request with his staff, but Gordon testified that didn't feel "pressured" to release the information.

Trump weighs in on Paxton's impeachment trial

As lawyers prepared for day eight of suspended Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's impeachment trial, former President Donald Trump called the proceedings "shameful."

In a post on Trump's Truth Social platform, he said Paxton "was easily re-elected last November, but now establishment RINOS are trying to undo that Election [sic] with a shameful impeachment," referring to Republicans in name only, which some party members deem not conservative enough.

Trump called Paxton one of the "toughest" and "best" attorney generals and said "Democrats are feeling very good right now as they watch, as usual, the Republicans fight" each other.

While many of us were sleeping @realDonaldTrump weighed in on the #Paxtonimpeachment on his Truth Social platform. pic.twitter.com/VnhVMeLh6P  John C. Moritz (@JohnnieMo) September 14, 2023

The trial began Thursday with Paxton's legal team questioning Justin Gordon, the open records division chief at the attorney general's office.

Time is running out for both sides. Both teams began with 24 hours of questioning. The House now has about 2.5 hours left. Paxton's team has less than nine hours left, Patrick announced Thursday morning.

Day eight of Paxton impeachment trial begins with defense witnesses

Texas House prosecutors have rested their case against suspended Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and his legal team's time to call witnesses is running out as Thursday begins the eighth day of Paxton's impeachment trial.

Paxton's defense team is expected Thursday to begin interrogating Michael Gerhardt, a law professor at the University of North Carolina. Lawyers representing Paxton called Gerhardt at the end of the day Wednesday, after the Texas House prosecution team rested its case, but Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who is presiding over the impeachment trial, ended the day's session before Gerhardt took the stand.

Wednesday's session ended in dramatic fashion. After House prosecutors rested their case, Paxton's lawyers filed a motion to dismiss all 16 charged against Paxton, but later withdrew it.

Wednesday opened with the expectation that Laura Olson, a woman with whom Paxton reportedly had an extramarital affair, would testify. However, Wednesday afternoon, Patrick announced that Olson was present but "unavailable to testify."

Instead, House prosecutors questioned Ray Chester, an attorney who represented the Mitte Foundation in the lawsuit accusing Nate Paul, a former Austin real estate developer and Paxton campaign donor, of fraud. Attorneys also quested Paxton's former executive assistant Drew Wicker, who said Wednesday that Paxton didn't want Wicker to meet with federal agents in relation to a 2020 whistleblower complaint stemming from Paxton's conduct in office.

Paxton's lawyers spent much of Wednesday combatting accusations that Paul paid for new granite countertops in Paxton's home by walking through a series of financial documents that showed Paxton transferred $121,000 to Cupertino Builders, indicating that Paxton paid for the renovations himself.

House prosecutors argued Cupertino Builders, which is registered in Delaware, hadn't set up a Texas affiliate until after the dates of the renovations and wire transfers.

Follow along here for live updates from the American-Statesman's Keri Heath and Tony Plohetski:

Past coverage:

Takeaways from Day 5: Paxton impeachment opens with 9/11 remembrance, testimony on alleged affair

What happened yesterday?: Updates from Day 5 of suspended Attorney General Ken Paxton's

Good to know: Who are the key players in Paxton's impeachment trial?

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Ken Paxton impeachment trial live: defense team rests case
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is asking Americans to believe in the righteous cause of an impeachment inquiry into President Biden.

This despite having no concrete evidence the president has done anything amounting to treason, high crimes or misdemeanors.

McCarthy, the Republican from Bakersfield who now represents much of the San Joaquin Valley, wants citizens to trust him and his party. But he wont do the same when it comes to indictments of former President Trump.

This despite the 91 felony counts faced by Trump in four separate criminal cases filed against Trump in New York, Georgia and before federal prosecutors.

Mr. Speaker, the contradiction between what you preach and what you reject is obviously political, and you once promised to not play politics with the solemn act of impeaching a president.

McCarthy disparages federal cases

To date, McCarthy has shown no support for the Justice Department in its handling of its Trump indictments, nor the cases brought by district attorneys in New York and Georgia.

Opinion

Instead, McCarthy has disparaged those prosecutions as weaponized, and characterized them as witch hunts. He has repeatedly claimed on social media and numerous interviews on conservative Fox News that two tiers of justice exist  one that handles President Biden and his family with kid gloves, the other than ruthlessly chases Trump.

In an interview on Fox last month, McCarthy called the Georgia case a desperate sham brought by a prosecutor with ambitions for higher office.

'FOLLOWING BIDEN'S LEAD': House Speaker Kevin McCarthy blasts the Fulton County, Georgia, district attorney for indicting former President Donald Trump and says she is using it to bolster her career. pic.twitter.com/016QiuXLKM  Fox News (@FoxNews) August 15, 2023

Nevermind the overwhelming circumstantial evidence of a pressure campaign Trump waged against Georgias secretary of state and other officials to gin up more votes for him following the 2020 presidential election. Biden captured the state, becoming the first Democrat to do so in nearly 30 years.

The audio recording of Trump pushing Brad Raffensperger to find votes has been widely disseminated.

So look, all I want to do is this, I just want to find 11,780 votes, which is one more than we have, because we won the state, Trump tells Raffensperger.

Well, Mr. President, the challenge that you have is the data you have is wrong, said Raffensperger, a Republican, in response to debunked conspiracy theories Trump repeated to Raffensperger in a leaked recording of their early 2021 conversation that is one of the most damning pieces of information against Trump in the Georgia case.

Trump did not win Georgia, and now he is charged with operating a criminal enterprise to try to stay in power.

While Trump awaits his day in court, the recording makes clear that the Georgia case is far from a sham indictment.

Then there are the indictments over Trumps role in the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol and the top-secret and confidential documents found at Mar-a-Lago, Trumps home in Florida.

With the riot, Trump is charged with trying to overturn the 2020 election. With Mar-a-Lago, he is charged with obstruction and mishandling presidential records, in violation of the law.

Americans watched the rioting in the U.S. Capitol in real time when it happened  and also saw how Trump watched the rioting on TV and waited 187 minutes before issuing a call for the attackers to stop.

At Mar-a-Lago, there are numerous photos showing how Trump stored confidential and top-secret documents in rooms that were unsecured.

These classified documents were found in Mar-a-Lago, along with several thousand misappropriated packets of White House ketchup.

These cases against a former President are unprecedented in American history. Only a partisan politician controlled by extremists in his own party who want to take Biden down would be attacking state and federal prosecutors while supporting the idea of a politicized impeachment process against a sitting president.

Is that you, Mr. Speaker? Is that the price of holding onto a speakership you seem to covet more than the rule of law?

Legitimate evidence needed

When it comes to Biden. McCarthys social media postings leave no doubt where he stands. McCarthys announcement about the impeachment inquiry said House Republicans had uncovered serious and credible allegations into President Bidens conduct  a culture of corruption.

I am directing our House committees to open a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. Over the past several months, House Republicans have uncovered serious and credible allegations into President Bidens conducta culture of corruption. https://t.co/3uoDlUB3Sy  Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) September 12, 2023

Well, House Republicans have had months to investigate Biden, and have yet not produced any compelling evidence equal to their charges.

If investigations turn up legitimate evidence that Biden engaged in wrongdoing, then make that known and bring on the case. Anything less than that could leave McCarthy and the caucus he serves facing a harsh judgment for their actions in the court of public opinion and the annals of history.
Facing renewed threats to his speakership, Kevin McCarthy is making a strategic bet: his critics dont have the votes to oust him  and if they do, hell grind it out on the floor again as he did back in January.

The speaker is fully prepared to ride out the coming storm and move ahead with a short-term spending bill to fund the government, despite repeated warnings from his right flank that such a move would result in a floor vote to remove him, called the motion to vacate the chair.

In a bold display of his confidence, a fired-up McCarthy made clear in a conference-wide meeting Thursday morning that he is not intimidated by the threats, and essentially dared his detractors to proceed.

Move the f***ing motion, he said, according to four sources in the room.

McCarthy echoed a similar sentiment  sans swear words  in front of the cameras following the closed-door meeting.

Threats dont matter, and sometimes people do those things because of personal things and thats all fine, McCarthy told reporters. You know what, if it takes a fight, Ill have a fight.

His critics, though, arent backing down.

Im concerned for the speaker that he seems to be a little rattled and unhinged at a time when we need focus and strong effort, Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida, a long-time thorn in the side of leadership, told CNN. Whether or not McCarthy faces a motion to vacate is within his own hands. All he has to do is come into compliance with the deal we made in January.

But its a risky gamble for the speaker, who eight months on the job is facing a remarkable level of turmoil inside the House GOP as they struggle to pass even party-line spending bills and remain fiercely divided over a high-stakes push to impeach President Joe Biden. And just the prospect of repeated votes on his ouster, even if they fail  as Gaetz has promised  threatens to paralyze business in the House and put the spotlight squarely on the divisions inside the GOP during a crucial moment of governing.

While Gaetz has been the face of the McCarthy resistance, at least a half dozen other GOP members told CNN they are open to supporting a motion to vacate the speakers chair if it comes to the floor  putting the effort on the brink of passage, an effort that has never succeeded before in the history of the chamber.

And in a sign of the seriousness of the situation, the topic has also come up in recent House Freedom Caucus meetings, according to GOP sources, with some members feeling like McCarthy violated his terms to become speaker. If all Democrats support the move, as many of them are signaling they would, it would take just five Republicans to succeed, thrusting the House into chaos. At that point, the House would be paralyzed until a new speaker is elected.

I agree with a lot of what (Gaetz) said and more importantly, so do my voters, Rep. Eli Crane of Arizona, a member of the hardline Freedom Caucus, told CNN. So, yeah, it is absolutely something Id entertain.

Added Rep. Dan Bishop of North Carolina, another conservative hardliner: I would support it if somebody brings it.

And several others, including Reps. Bob Good of Virginia, Matt Rosendale of Montana, Ralph Norman of South Carolina and Chip Roy of Texas  all members who initially opposed McCarthys speakership in January  have not ruled out backing such an effort.

Rosendale told CNN: Weve got a lot of things that were going to have to discuss over the next couple of weeks and that is gonna play a critical role in any motion thats made and certainly the outcome of it. But you cant continue to get your support from the Democrat conference, and then think that youre gonna maintain your leadership with the Republican Conference.

I think Speaker McCarthy has a path to choose, Good said, calling on him to pass government funding bills with GOP support and not rely on Democrats. I certainly hope he chooses the former. We expect him to do that and we expect to hold him accountable to do that.

Democrats, meanwhile, plan to follow the lead of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who has said he would not engage in hypotheticals and has not made any recommendations to his caucus yet about how to vote on a motion to vacate. But many of them are making clear theyre not looking to bail out the speaker.

Preserving a Republican speakership is a Republican responsibility, Rep. Gerry Connolly, a Virginia Democrat, told CNN. Absolutely (the onus) is on them

Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz talks with fellow Representatives during a joint meeting of Congress at the U.S. Capitol on June 22, 2023 in Washington, DC. - Alex Wong/Getty Images

McCarthy-Gaetz showdown takes center stage again

This is not the first time that McCarthy and Gaetz have squared off.

During the intense speakers race, Gaetz led the opposition against McCarthy for 15 rounds of voting that culminated in an extraordinary confrontation between the two men on the House floor until Gaetz  lacking a clear alternative candidate  ultimately relented and helped seal McCarthys victory.

That dynamic is why McCarthy allies once again are dismissing the renewed threats to his speakership, though they remain frustrated with their hardline colleagues and are beginning to discuss ways to counter the Freedom Caucus demands.

Its unacceptable what is going on and youre talking about a very small number and the rest of us cant just sit still and get walked over, said Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska, who represents a Biden-won district.

McCarthys camp always knew the motion to vacate would be hanging over his speakership. As part of his deal to become speaker, McCarthy gave any single member the power to call for a floor vote on removing him.

But if the House votes to remove him, its uncertain any other Republican can get the 218 votes needed to succeed him to become speaker. So McCarthys allies believe he should continue to put his name on the ballot until ultimately his critics relent and let him keep the gavel.

And while some of the far right are making their distaste for the speakers leadership known, McCarthy still maintains the support of one key Freedom Caucus ally: Rep. Jim Jordan, an Ohio Republican who has the ear of the right.

Jordan said he totally disagrees with any effort to oust McCarthy.

Thats ridiculous, Jordan said, adding that hes expressed that opinion to his colleagues.

Rep. Dusty Johnson, a Republican from South Dakota, said McCarthy does not let these little things get under his skin.

Nothing has come easy for this guy in the last nine months, Johnson said. He has an incredible optimism and hes got a resilience. Like all of us, he does occasionally get frustrated by how many members including myself can be knuckleheads in any given day. But listen, I mean he understands that he is the right guy at this moment and he is not going to be dissuaded that the job is hard.

Rep. Tim Burchett, a conservative Tennessee Republican, added: Hes like Tony Soprano. Everybody thinks theyre going to kill him, and he comes out alive.

Early on as speaker, McCarthy made a point to bring the different factions of his conference together, to keep all sides talking as Republicans navigated their narrow majority. Gaetz regularly attended those meetings.

But after McCarthy cut a deal with Democrats to raise the debt ceiling this summer, the trust and communication between Gaetz and McCarthy broke down  and the rhetoric has gotten personal. Gaetz, who has publicly called McCarthy pathetic and a liar, went to the House floor on Tuesday, the day the House returned after a six-week recess, with a list of demands he needed from McCarthy in order to avoid a motion to vacate, including lower spending levels, votes on specific bills and an immediate subpoena to Hunter Biden.

McCarthy, in turn, has said Gaetz is just acting out in response to a reopened Ethics probe into the Florida Republican, even though the speaker has maintained he is not involved.

Let me be very clear with you. Matt is upset about an ethics complaint, McCarthy told CNN on Wednesday. I dont care what they threaten against me, Im not going to interject into an independent committee like ethics.

Gaetz, however, is undeterred. He accused McCarthy of initiating an impeachment inquiry to give himself political cover, and vowed this week: If we have to begin every single day in Congress with the prayer, the pledge and the motion to vacate then so be it.

Others, however, take that as a sign Gaetz doesnt have the support to succeed.

He said that he would do it every day. So it doesnt indicate that he has a lot of confidence that its going to pass the first time, said Rep. Ken Buck of Colorado, who has opposed a lot of the leaderships agenda this year.

Still, there are clear signs of unrest on the right. Norman said, on spending, hes let us down.

GOP Rep. Andy Biggs of Arizona said: The motion to vacate is a tool that should be available. Its just a matter of whether it really were to come to pass.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia speaks during a subcommittee hearing on Capitol Hill on July 18, 2023 in Washington, DC. - Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Threat of government shutdown hangs over McCarthy

As House Republicans engage in open warfare, they must figure out a path to avoid a government shutdown. McCarthy has been laboring to pass individual spending bills with GOP votes to give them more leverage with the Senate, which has passed several bipartisan funding bills. But leadership had to pull a bill on defense spending this week because hardliners wouldnt even unite around a procedural vote, insisting they get a commitment from McCarthy to lower spending levels, among other things.

Behind closed-doors on Wednesday, McCarthy warned Republicans they would lose the shutdown fight if they dont start passing spending bills, and said they will stay in session starting next week until the government is funded. But many in his conference have threatened that once McCarthy makes compromises with Democrats to fund the government, all bets are off on his speakership.

One idea being discussed by leaders of the Freedom Caucus and centrist leaning Main Street Caucus is attaching elements of a House GOP border security package to a short-term funding bill. Leadership is aware of the discussions but not actively involved, and the situation is fluid, GOP sources said. That could be a way to appease conservatives  and stave off the threats to McCarthys speakership  but could risk a shutdown, as it would be a non-starter in the Democratic-controlled Senate.

Roy, who said he will oppose a short-term spending bill unless it includes a House GOP border security package, said Wednesdays meeting was contentious.

A lot of us are frustrated, he said. We are trying to figure out how to, frankly, do the work thats not being done by virtually anyone else in this town.

But Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, a McCarthy ally, applauded the speaker and has derided her former colleagues in the House Freedom Caucus, who kicked her out earlier this summer for being too cozy with leadership.

He told the entire conference if you want to throw in a motion to vacate, thats fine. I didnt survive 15 rounds for nothing and Ill survive another 50 rounds, Greene said.

Asked specifically about Gaetz, Greene said she considers him a close friend and that we may have to come to blows inside our conference and work it out, but I think youll see good things coming.

Still, between the growing angst in his conference and standstill over how to fund the government, McCarthy admitted that this week did not go as he had planned.

I always have a plan that doesnt mean it happens. I had a plan for this week, didnt turn out exactly as I had planned, he said Thursday.

This story and headline have been updated with additional developments.

CNNs Sam Fossum, Haley Talbot and Lauren Fox contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
A hat trick of vermin in an affluent suburb and roaches at chain restaurants lowlight weeks this short-but-stacked Sick and Shut Down List of South Florida restaurants.

But, before we get started, lets remind you of how we do what we do:

What follows comes from Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation restaurant inspections of restaurants in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe counties. These are the restaurants that fail inspection. A restaurant that fails inspection remains closed until passing a re-inspection.

We dont do the inspections. We dont control who gets inspected. We dont control how strictly the inspector inspects. If restaurants in your part of South Florida are not included, we have nothing to do with that. If you see a problem and want a place inspected, contact the DBPR.

We dont include all violations, just the most moving, whether internally or literally moving (because its alive or once was alive). Some violations get corrected immediately after the inspector points them out. But in those situations, ask yourself, why did the violations exist in the first place? And, how long would they have remained if not for the inspection?

We report without passion or prejudice, but with two scoops of humor, indignation and exasperation.

In alphabetical order...

KFC, 5850 Wiles Rd., Coral Springs: Complaint inspection, four total violations, three High Priority violations.

A live roach greeted the inspector at the front door, setting the tone for this official once-over.

In the womens restroom, five dead flying insects were on the wall.

Instead of 11 herbs and spices, the inspector counted 18 live flies, three of which were on a dining area wall and two at the soda machine in the dining area.

As for the food, the potato hash in the hot holding unit wasnt hot enough for safe keeping. The manager tossed it.

Apparently, things were finger lickin good (or close enough) during the next days re-inspection.

Now, to the next chain. But, first, Aretha.

Panera Bread, 12205 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami: Complaint inspection, four total violations, one High Priority violation.

Accumulation of debris inside the warewashing machine..the dishwasher machine was soiled.

What dont you want to see next to the bread oven in a restaurant based around bread? Yep, a live roach on the floor. Maybe he got sent as a scout for the 10 live roaches behind a cardboard box in the storage room.

Panera passed inspection the next day.

Raja Indian Cuisine & Bar at the Original Wellington Mall, 12794 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington: Routine inspection, 24 total violations, eight High Priority violations.

The inspector saw several live spiders throughout the kitchen and dry food storage room, but didnt note any web building or web slinging.

READ MORE: Spider web on a mixer, roach wings on walls at a Hialeah bakery

The live roach count reached eight, one of which was next to an instant coffee box in dry storage, four between the walk and caulking near the dishwasher.

And, to complete the hat trick, rodents left poo pieces on top of a wine display cabinet by a self serve station in the dining room; at the dining room server station; next to the wine display cabinet by the mall entrance; and had a little party where they dumped a dozen on top of a wine display cabinet in the dining room.

Self-service salad bar/buffet lacking adequate sneezeguards or other proper protection from contamination. The inspector meant the rice pudding in particular and we need to know the rice pudding is protected because, well, its rice pudding. Not exactly easy to tell when it hasnt been protected properly from sneezes and spit.

Ice scoop stored on top of soiled surface on top of the ice machine. Ew.

The outdoor bar sink possessed neither soap nor way to dry your hands.

Oh, and Raja lied. Establishment advertised a specific fish on the menu/menu board but served another type of fish. The menu said yellowtail snapper. The inspector said the invoice from Cheney Bros. said whole South America wild snapper/Caribbean red snapper.

Raja kept perpetrating the next day. The inspector noticed that and the manager killing a couple of roaches on walls near the dishwasher, one next to a clean dish storage rack.

A re-re-inspection got Raja back open.

READ MORE: Black matter, not-so-fresh food and other problems at a Broward Fresh Market

Wings & More, 2525 Davie Blvd., Fort Lauderdale: Complaint inspection, eight total violations, six High Priority violations.

Soiled dry wiping cloth in use. Thats bad.

Stop Sales hit food in the too-warm walk-in cooler with chicken soup, cooked ribs, deli turkey and sliced chedder cheese, all basura. Thats worse.

The worst: Sewage/wastewater is backing up through the floor drains. Wastewater is coming up from the floor drain next to the kitchen hand sink. Water is covering the walkway from the kitchen to the walk-in cooler and back storage areas. Employees are tracking water across the floor.

Wings & More passed re-inspection the next day.
A former Kentucky county clerk must pay $100,000 to a gay couple she denied a marriage license, a federal jury decided on Thursday.

Kim Davis, formerly the Rowan County clerk, attracted international attention when she refused to issue the license after the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in 2015, landing her in jail on a contempt of court charge for five days.

Following jury deliberations, Davis was ordered to pay $50,000 each to David Ermold and David Moore, according to Davis' lawyers.

"My clients couldn't be happier," Michael Gartland of Del Cotto Law Group, who represented the couple, told USA TODAY.

Another couple behind a second lawsuit against Davis, were not awarded any money. "I was actually shocked that they got nothing. Literally shocked," Gartland said. "I guess the only the only thing I can say is, it's got to be that the jury saw it differently."

Reached for comment, Liberty Counsel, the law firm representing Davis, referred USA TODAY to a press release in which lawyer Mat Staver said, We look forward to appealing this decision and taking this case to the U.S. Supreme Court."

The Supreme Court already declined to take up an appeal from Davis' in the case in 2020, but Justice Clarence Thomas wrote on behalf of himself and Justice Samuel Alito that he believed it was a "stark reminder of the consequences" of the Supreme Court's legalization of gay marriage in June 2015.

"My guess is the case goes on for another year to two years," said Gartland. "I will be seeking to collect the judgment against her unless she pulls it off. And that might include a lawsuit against her counsel."

More: Planned Parenthood Wisconsin resumes abortion procedures after new court ruling

Kim Davis was joined by her attorney and former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee after her release from jail in 2015.

Violation of Rights

U.S. District Judge David Bunning ruled last year that Davis had violated both couples' constitutional rights under the 14th Amendment and the Supreme Court's decision to legalize gay marriage in Obergefell v. Hodges, the Louisville Courier-Journal, part of the USA TODAY Network, reported.

In his ruling, Bunning wrote that Davis "cannot use her own constitutional rights as a shield to violate the constitutional rights of others while performing her duties as an elected official."

Davis drew praise from conservative and Christian figures when she went to jail rather than issue licenses to gay couples, citing her religious belief that marriage is between a man and a woman.

At the time, Republican hopefuls for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination were quick to rally around Davis. Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee appeared with her as she walked out of jail.

Davis lost her bid for reelection as county clerk in 2018, the Associated Press reported. Ermold, one of the plaintiffs, also unsuccessfully ran for her seat, which was taken by Democrat Elwood Caudill Jr.

Cybele Mayes-Osterman is a breaking news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her by email at cmayesosterman@usatoday.com. Follow her on X @CybeleMO.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kim Davis lawsuit: Clerk to pay gay couple denied marriage license
By Hyonhee Shin and Guy Faulconbridge

SEOUL/MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russian President Vladimir Putin accepted Kim Jong Un 's invitation to visit North Korea, stoking U.S. concerns that a revived Moscow-Pyongyang axis could bolster Russia's military in Ukraine and provide Kim sensitive missile technology.

The invite was made during a summit in eastern Russia at which they discussed military matters, the war in Ukraine and helping North Korea's satellite programme.

Calling each other "comrades", the two leaders toasted their friendship on Wednesday with Russian wine after the 70-year-old Putin showed Kim, 39, around Russia's most modern space launch facility and they held talks alongside their defence ministers.

"At the end of the reception, Kim Jong Un courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK at a convenient time," KCNA said, referring to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, North Korea's formal name.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Putin "gratefully" accepted the invite and that Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov would travel to Pyongyang in October. Since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Putin has rarely travelled abroad.

For the United States and allies, the burgeoning friendship between Kim and Putin is a concern. Washington has accused North Korea of providing arms to Russia, but it is unclear whether any deliveries have been made.

Both Russia and North Korea have denied those claims, but promised to deepen defence cooperation. During a visit to North Korea in July, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu was shown banned ballistic missiles by Kim.

The U.S. State Department said on Wednesday the Biden administration "won't hesitate" to impose additional sanctions on Russia and North Korea if they conclude any new arms deals.

On Thursday, the top national security officials of the United States, South Korea and Japan discussed the Putin-Kim meeting in a call.

A White House statement said U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan and counterparts Takeo Akiba of Japan and Cho Tae-yong of South Korea noted that any North Korean arms exports to Russia "would directly violate multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions, including resolutions that Russia itself voted to adopt."

South Korea's National Security Council (NSC) said on Thursday North Korea and Russia would "pay a price" if they violated U.N. Security Council resolutions.

Kim is due on Thursday to visit military and civilian aviation factories in the Russian city of Komsomolsk-on-Amur and to inspect Russia's Pacific fleet in Vladivostok, Putin said.

'FRIENDSHIP'

Over a sumptuous lunch of Russian "pelmeni" dumplings made with Kamchatka crab, white Amur fish soup and sturgeon, Kim on Wednesday toasted to Putin's health, to the victory of "great Russia" and to Korean-Russian friendship, predicting victory for Moscow in its "sacred fight" with the West.

North Korea was founded in September 1948 with the backing of the Soviet Union, and Moscow supported it for decades during the Cold War, though support dropped off after the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union.

In recent years, China has been seen as the power with the most influence over Kim, but Pyongyang's leaders have often tried to balance ties with both Moscow and Beijing.

After taking over from Boris Yeltsin in 1999, Putin visited Pyongyang in July 2000 for a meeting with Kim Jong Il , the father of Kim Jong Un.

At the summit on Wednesday, it was unclear just how far Putin was prepared to go in fulfilling North Korean wish lists for technology.

Amid artillery battles in Ukraine, Russia has ramped up its shell production, but a North Korean supply line could be useful.

North Korea is believed to have a large stockpile of artillery shells and rockets compatible with Soviet-era weapons, as well as a history of producing such ammunition.

Asked whether Russia could simply remove sanctions on North Korea, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia remained a responsible member of the U.N. Security Council.

But Peskov added that Moscow would develop its relations with North Korea in accordance with its own interests.

Russian diplomats said the United States was hypocritical to criticise the summit because Washington had sown chaos and sent weapons to allies across the world.

"The United States has no right to lecture us on how to live," Russia's ambassador to the United States, Anatoly Antonov, said in a statement.

(Writing by Guy Faulconbridge in Moscow; Reporting by Hyonhee Shin, Jack Kim and Soo-hyang Choi in Seoul and Steve Holland, Kanishka Singh and David Brunnstrom in Washington; Editing by Gerry Doyle, Angus MacSwan, Alexandra Hudson)
Years after a measure to raise a tax on property sales above $1 million to fund homeless services failed to gain traction, Mayor Brandon Johnsons aldermanic allies introduced an updated version of the plan Thursday with hopes that momentum from the new mayors electoral victory this year will help secure its passage.

The Bring Chicago Home resolution was one of Johnsons hallmark campaign promises and a key plank of his 100-day agenda. Championed by a coalition of housing advocates who say the citys homelessness crisis needs immediate action, the measure ran into a false start four years ago when Johnsons predecessor, Lori Lightfoot, who had supported Bring Chicago Home, grew reluctant after assuming office.

Advertisement

Sponsors of the latest resolution  progressive Aldermen Maria Hadden, 49th, Matt Martin, 47th, and Carlos Ramirez-Rosa, 35th  said Thursday that with a homeless population unlikely to find relief without more help soon, the time to act is now.

The resolution that we are submitting today has been hard-fought and hard-compromised, Hadden said. It is a good plan. Its going to get us the money that we need, and its going to not burden everyday Chicagoans.

Advertisement

In a post-council news conference, Johnson paid tribute to his late brother in pushing for passage of Bring Chicago Home.

This is very, very, very much personal for all of us up here today, the mayor said after inviting a woman who has been homeless in Chicago to speak. And as many of you all know, my older brother Leon, this was years ago because of untreated trauma, died addicted and unhoused. And so the time to act is now. The time to act is now.

The original proposal, which would have tripled the real estate transfer tax on all real estate sales over $1 million, was steadfastly opposed by businesses and landlord groups, the latter of which cited potential hardships for property owners of smaller multifamily buildings.

[ Real estate transfer tax would drop for homes below $1 million, but increase for higher-end sales under revised Johnson homelessness plan ]

Johnsons team this summer hammered out a new version that offers a tiered tax rate system designed to hit the most expensive properties hardest. The measure applies to all sales of homes, commercial and apartment buildings in Chicago, though it decreases the tax rate on buildings priced below $1 million and increases it on those above that threshold.

The mayors team has estimated the updated plan is expected to rake in more than $100 million in revenue per year, based on the current real estate market. Thats down from the Bring Chicago Home coalitions projection of $160 million under the original proposal.

Despite the changes, many real estate interests still oppose the measure.

Miguel Chacon, a landlord and real estate broker for small-to-midsize property owners in Pilsen, called the ordinance terrible and said it will hurt renters more than anyone else, as property owners will have to pass on added costs to tenants.

I dont understand how politicians think this is a good idea, said Chacon, who is also a member of the Neighborhood Building Owners Alliance. It just goes to the opposite of trying to avoid homelessness when youre raising the rents for all renters across the city.

Advertisement

Still, Johnsons election in April has added new fuel to the Bring Chicago Home effort and his progressive movement in general, his supporters said. They added that tensions over whether the burgeoning population of migrants coming to Chicago since August 2022 are taking up resources have highlighted a need for more social services as a whole.

Chicago Coalition for the Homeless has counted 68,440 people experiencing homelessness in 2021, an increase of nearly 3,000 people from the previous year, according to the groups most recent estimates. The research shows shifts in the way people experienced homelessness, noting 7,985 more people were staying on the street or in shelters as opposed to those temporarily staying with others, compared with 2020 data.

April Harris, a member of Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, said at a rally Thursday before the measure was being introduced that she and her family were homeless three times before finding stable housing.

We need a dedicated revenue stream to help thousands of people, as the numbers of people experiencing homelessness keep rising, Harris said.

Behind her, the crowd chanted, Hey hey, ho ho, its time to Bring Chicago Home, and 68K need a place to stay, a reference to the Chicago homelessness estimates.

The only ways to change the citys real estate transfer tax rate are either through the Illinois General Assembly, which isnt reconvening until the fall veto session, or through a citywide referendum. Johnson and his allies have decided to try the referendum route, with a timeline of passing the resolution through the City Council next month and placing the referendum question on the March primary ballot. The deadline to get the resolution on that ballot is Jan. 2.

Advertisement

Currently, there is a 0.75% flat tax on all property sales in Chicago, or $3.75 per $500 of the sale price.

The previous Bring Chicago Home proposal called for two levy tiers: keeping the 0.75% on property sales below $1 million, and hiking it to 2.65% on properties above $1 million.

[ A push to raise high-end real estate transfer taxes to fight homelessness in Chicago falters; effort to put question to voters appears out of runway ]

But under the new proposal, the Johnson administration hopes to break property sales into three categories  properties under $1 million, those properties valued between $1 million and $1.5 million and those properties valued above $1.5 million.

The plan would implement a marginal structure, which means only the additional dollars above a bracket are subject to the higher tax rate. So an owner of a property just one dollar above $1 million would not pay a drastically higher levy than an owner of a $999,999 property, for example.

For properties below $1 million, owners would actually see their transfer taxes go down by 20%, as the rate would decrease to 0.6%.

Buildings selling between $1 million to $1.5 million would have taxes for that portion of the sale price go up to 2%, or a 167% increase. Finally, transfer taxes on properties above $1.5 million would triple to 3% for the part of the sale above that threshold.

Advertisement

But Michael Mini, executive vice president of the Chicagoland Apartment Association, said such a proposal could end up backfiring for advocates by stymieing the growth of affordable and market-rate housing.

The proposed real estate transfer tax will jeopardize investment in the city, increasing transaction costs, decreasing funds available for renovations, reducing return on investment, and will lead to apartment developers to do business elsewhere, Mini wrote in a statement. Chicago taxpayers deserve a better strategy that encourages investment, creates jobs and grows our tax base.

Resolution sponsor Ald. Carlos Ramirez-Rosa, 35th, speaks during City Council at City Hall, Sept. 14, 2023. (Trent Sprague/Chicago Tribune)

Sponsor Ald. Maria Hadden, 49th, listens to Ald. Emma Mitts, 37th, during a City Council meeting at City Hall on Sept. 14, 2023. (Trent Sprague/Chicago Tribune)

Bring Chicago Home advocates attempted to get the question before voters on the Feb. 28 ballot, but their efforts failed after months of stonewalling from Lightfoot and her allies, who said their proposal was flawed. At the time, Hadden said supporters were out of runway, but she and others said the campaign is ready to win the battle this time.

As long as City Council can do the right thing  pass this resolution, put the question to the voters  when we win and come back to council, we are going to be able to provide a solution for homelessness and for neighbors experiencing homelessness within a year, Hadden said.

[ South Shore affordable housing protections to be proposed at City Council amid fears of Obama center gentrification ]

Also Thursday, South Side Aldermen Desmon Yancy, 5th, and Jeanette Taylor, 20th, introduced a new housing preservation ordinance to protect South Shore renters and homeowners from what they said is incoming displacement tied to the Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park. Yancy said he wants to pass the legislation by the end of the year.

After the council meeting, the mayor said he supports the spirit of a community benefits agreement but wanted more time to review the legislation to best support longtime residents who should have a right to remain there, he said.

Advertisement

The mayors team also introduced another piece of legislation Thursday tied to his 100-day agenda, this time on the campaign to reopen the mental health clinics shuttered by former Mayor Rahm Emanuel and provide a citywide nonpolice response to mental health crises.

Dubbed Treatment Not Trauma, the ordinance would create a working group to suggest a framework and road map on how the city can go about those goals, which Johnson has recently cautioned will take more time than one budget cycle to accomplish.

Chicago Tribunes Gregory Royal Pratt contributed.

ayin@chicagotribune.com

ekane@chicagotribune.com
The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station has found mosquitoes in six towns carrying the eastern equine encephalitis virus, including in Voluntown.

The infected mosquitoes were found in the Pachaug State Forest on Sept. 5. The Uncas Health District is urging people to protect themselves from mosquito-borne diseases, a press release from Uncas Health District states.

"We encourage residents of southeastern Connecticut to take simple measures such as wearing mosquito repellent and covering bare skin, especially during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active," Patrick McCormack, MPH, Director of Health, stated in the release.

The other five towns are Hampton, Killingly, Thompson, Tolland and Woodstock.

Redevelopment: Two more former Thermos factory buildings to be demolished in Norwich

What is eastern equine encephalitis, commonly called EEE

EEE is a rare but serious virus transmitted by mosquitoes. Mosquitoes only get the virus by feeding on infected wild birds. The virus is usually found in species of mosquitoes that feed on birds, but the virus is occasionally passed to other mosquito species known to bite people and horses. The virus cannot be passed from person to person or from horses to humans, the press release states.

The risk of mosquito-transmitted diseases usually increases through the late summer and early fall. Mosquitoes are active until the first heavy frost, the press release states.

What are the symptoms of EEE

Infection with EEE virus can cause serious illness affecting the brain.

Symptoms include high fever, headache, stiff neck, and decreased consciousness.

Many of those who recover experience lasting health problems. Individuals EEE symptoms should contact their physician immediately.

But, the disease is fatal in 25% to 50% of cases.

Norwich Public Utilities customers: NPU's $200 million wastewater plant replacement to improve technology and service.

Are there vaccines for EEE

No human vaccine against EEE virus infection or specific antiviral treatment for clinical EEE virus infections is available.

How to protect yourself from EEE and mosquito bites

To reduce the risk of mosquito bites, people should

Minimize time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.

Check that door and window screens are tight-fitting and in good repair.

Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time, or when mosquitoes are more active. Clothing should be light-colored and made of tightly woven materials that keep mosquitoes away from the skin.

Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened structure and to protect babies when outdoors.

Consider using mosquito repellent, according to directions, when it is necessary to be outdoors.

For information on EEE and other mosquito-borne diseases, what can be done to prevent getting bitten by mosquitoes, the latest mosquito test results and human infections, visit the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program website at https://portal.ct.gov/mosquito.

This article originally appeared on The Bulletin: EEE found in mosquitoes in six Connecticut towns, including Voluntown
MOSCOW (Reuters) - The Kremlin on Thursday said that Russian businessmen who voiced anti-Russian views in an effort to get personal Western sanctions on them lifted were traitors ready to sell out their country.

The European Union has just removed three Russian business leaders from its sanctions list - which it introduced to punish Moscow for its war in Ukraine - the EU's Official Journal showed on Thursday. Personal sanctions for many others were extended however.

When asked to comment on the development, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters it was unlikely that Europe itself could explain the logic of the decision-making process behind the sanctions.

Different Russian businessmen had adopted different methods when it came to trying to get themselves removed from the sanctions list, he said.

"There are businessmen who slip into anti-Russian positions and who try get sanctions taken off for 12 pieces of silver - they are traitors," said Peskov.

"There are (also) entrepreneurs who systematically and methodically defend their interests in court - this is the right of any entrepreneur and we treat this with respect," Peskov said.

Russia considered any seizure of private property or encroachment on individual business assets "contrary...to international legislation", he added.

President Vladimir Putin this week described the co-founder of tech company Yandex Arkady Volozh as a "talented man" who has the right to express his opinion following an anti-war outburst he made last month.

Volozh, whose personal EU sanctions were this week extended, last month slammed what he called Russia's "barbaric" invasion of Ukraine - something Moscow calls "a special military operation" - days after criticism inside Russia over his apparent efforts to distance himself from the country.

"This is linked to a desire for these people to keep their business, to keep their assets, especially if people have moved and decided to live their lives in another country," Putin said on Tuesday.

Yandex is pursuing a corporate restructuring that should ultimately see its main revenue-generating businesses inside Russia spun off from its Dutch-registered parent company, Yandex NV.

Volozh could not immediately be reached for comment.

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Alexander Marrow; Editing by Andrew Osborn)
Kremlin-aligned media outlets have received a "strong request" from the Russian presidential administration to cover the "rumours" of a second wave of mobilisation as little as possible and not even to publish official refutations of the "rumours".

Source: Meduza, citing sources in Kremlin-aligned news outlets and Putins administration

Details: An employee of a Kremlin-aligned tabloid told Meduza that comments on mobilisation receive a large number of views and many people learn about so-called fake news from them. "And as we [in Russia] believe, if the government denies something, that means it will happen," the source said.

Meduzas sources noted that the Russian presidential administrations request applies to statements such as those made by Andrei Kartapolov, head of the State Duma Defence Committee, particularly with regard to "refuting" information about a new wave of mobilisation.

Kartapolov infamously "denied" preparations for mobilisation in September 2022, shortly before it began.

Instead of news containing comments about possible mobilisation, the Kremlin suggested that propagandists focus on stories about the recruitment of contract soldiers, which is supposedly going "very well".

A source close to the Russian presidential administration explained that this is because the mere mention of mobilisation "is very disturbing to society": "Its easier to talk about it as little as possible, there are fewer triggers," the source said.

It is reported that the Kremlin does not need such "anxiety" ahead of the 2024 presidential election: "It affects people's moods, and for some people, that [anxiety] could turn into inclinations to protest. They will vote against [Putin] or not turn up to vote," the source said.

At the same time, Meduzas sources close to the Kremlin said they had no idea whether there will be a new wave of mobilisation in principle.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
FILE PHOTO: An ethnic Armenian soldier looks through binoculars as he stands at fighting positions near divided Taghavard village in Nagorno-Karabakh region

MOSCOW (Reuters) -The Kremlin expressed concern on Thursday that tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh were increasing, as Armenia's prime minister described the situation in the blockaded territory as "critical".

Armenia has in recent weeks repeatedly accused Azerbaijan of massing forces around Karabakh, which Baku has effectively blockaded since December 2022, causing acute hunger. A deal struck to unblock roads to the territory last weekend has yet to take full effect.

In a call with reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "Of course, we are concerned that the tension is not subsiding and in some areas is even on the increase."

He said Russia would stay in contact with Yerevan and Baku and remain a reliable guarantor of security in the South Caucasus. Moscow has expressed irritation with both countries in recent days.

Karabakh is internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan but is overwhelmingly populated by ethnic Armenians. With support from Yerevan, the region won de facto independence from Azerbaijan after a lengthy war in the early 1990s.

Azerbaijan retook large swathes of territory in and around Karabakh in a second war in 2020, leaving the region dependent on a single road - the so-called Lachin Corridor - that links it to Armenia. That road has been closed since December 2022, causing food, fuel and medicine shortages.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who has also tried to help broker a lasting peace, expressed concern on Sunday about deteriorating conditions in the territory.

"(He) has engaged with the leaders of both Armenia and Azerbaijan to make it clear we want the Lachin Corridor to be opened immediately to address the really dire humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told a briefing on Thursday.

Armenian state news agency Armenpress on Thursday quoted Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan as saying the humanitarian situation inside Karabakh was desperate. He said a Russian aid truck which Karabakh authorities allowed to enter the region from Azerbaijan on Tuesday had not alleviated the crisis.

Armenpress also quoted Pashinyan as saying that Azerbaijan was continuing to mass troops along the frontlines with Karabakh and Armenia, a charge that Baku has repeatedly denied.

Twice on Thursday, Azerbaijan's defence ministry said its forces had come under fire from Armenian units along the two countries' shared border. Armenia's defence ministry denied opening fire on Azerbaijani positions.

(Reporting by ReutersWriting by Felix Light in Tbilisi and David Ljunggren in OttawaEditing by Gareth Jones and Andrew Heavens)
During a meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on 14 September, Olha Stefanishyna , Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, suggested convening the Ukraine-NATO Council to discuss energy security.

Source: European Pravda with reference to the press service of the government of Ukraine

Details: In Brussels, Stefanishyna and Stoltenberg discussed the implementation of the decisions of the NATO summit in Vilnius, as well as the urgent needs of Ukraine to resist the full-scale Russian aggression.

In particular, it was about the adaptation of the Annual National Program (ANP), which should become a tool for assessing Kyiv's progress in implementing the Alliance's standards and the basis for making a decision on membership.

The parties also discussed the Road Map of Ukraine-NATO interoperability, which should contain detailed steps to support the reforms of the security and defence sector of the state and harmonise it with the relevant defence planning processes of the Alliance countries.

The Deputy Prime Minister also remembered the Ukraine-NATO Council, the new format of Kyiv's interaction with the Alliance agreed upon at the Vilnius Summit. In July of this year, after Russia's unilateral withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative, the first extraordinary meeting of the Council was held.

Stefanishyna emphasised that Ukraine considers the Council primarily as a tool for integration with the Alliance and proposed to hold its meeting on energy security issues in the near future in view of the possible intensification of Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy system.

The Deputy Prime Minister previously stated that Ukraine did not receive what it wanted at the Vilnius NATO Summit, as the leaders of the Alliance countries did not risk taking too much responsibility. She also believes that Ukraine will be ready for EU membership in 2 years, and as for NATO membership, it might be even sooner.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
The head of a Michigan software company filed a lawsuit Thursday accusing Los Angeles County Dist. Atty. George Gascon of targeting him in a bungled prosecution last year that was almost entirely based on the word of election deniers and conspiracy theorists.

Eugene Yu, the chief executive of a 21-employee business known as Konnech, accused Gascon and the district attorney's office of multiple civil rights violations, negligence and intentional infliction of emotional distress, according to the 86-page complaint.

Yu was arrested in Michigan in October and indicted on charges that he compromised the personal information of L.A. County poll workers by storing data on Chinese servers. In the months before Yu's arrest, Konnech had become the subject of unfounded allegations that it was working with the Chinese government to influence U.S. elections.

Many of those claims were pushed by True the Vote, a Texas-based group that traffics in conspiracy theories denying the legitimacy of the 2020 election. The organization funded and appeared in the film 2000 Mules by right-wing provocateur Dinesh DSouza, which purported to prove that then-President Trump lost his bid for a second term because of coordinated ballot box stuffing by Democrats.

A little over a month after Gascon announced the arrest, which drew praise from former President Trump and other right-wing election deniers, the case against Yu collapsed.

After initially denying True the Vote had any involvement in the investigation, the district attorney's office acknowledged that a tip from the group's co-founder, Gregg Phillips, sparked the inquiry into Yu. Phillips has also said he testified before the grand jury. Even though the group's election-related claims had been reviewed by several state attorney generals and the FBI with no charges filed, L.A. County prosecutors decided to pursue the case.

Gascon's office dismissed the initial indictment that was linked to True the Vote and filed new embezzlement and conspiracy charges against Yu, but those were also dropped in early November. The lead prosecutor, Eric Neff, was placed on administrative leave a week later.

At the time, the district attorney's office said it was concerned about the pace of the investigation and potential bias in the presentation of evidence. A spokeswoman did not elaborate on the nature or source of the bias.

In the lawsuit, Yu claims Gascon's botched prosecution led nearly half of Konnech's clients to end their contracts with the company and cost him roughly $80 million. The Yu family has also been the subject of a litany of violent threats, according to the lawsuit, which claims someone also left dead animals outside the family's home after news of his arrest broke.

The L.A. County Registrar-Recorder's office  which would have been the victim in the case brought by L.A. County prosecutors  never cut ties with Konnech. Mike Sanchez, a spokesman for the office, told The Times last year it had received no evidence that anyone's information had been compromised. The office entered a contract with Konnech to use the company's PollChief software for "storage and management of election worker and voting location data" in October 2020, an agreement that will run through next year's presidential election, Sanchez said.

Read more: How did Gascon end up launching a criminal probe sparked by far-right election conspiracy theories?

The district attorney's office "maliciously and recklessly relied on and knowingly aligned themselves with the Election Deniers and their further discredited and utterly false conspiracy theories," according to the suit.

Konnechs PollChief software was used by counties across the country to register and schedule poll workers, and has nothing to do with tallying ballots, according to the company.

Defendants knew or should have known that the Election Deniers and the information they provided were unreliable, not credible, untrustworthy and could not serve as a basis for a finding of probable cause," the suit read.

The complaint names Gascon, L.A. County, Neff and district attorney's office investigator Andrew Stevens as defendants. Stevens traveled to an event called "The Pit" in the Arizona desert last year, where True the Vote and other election deniers broadcast their allegations against Konnech, according to the suit.

Tiffiny Blacknell, a spokeswoman for the district attorney's office, said she could not comment on pending litigation. She declined to answer a question about Neff's status with the office. Calls and e-mails seeking comment from Neff and Stevens were not returned on Thursday. A spokesman for True the Vote noted the group was not a party to this suit and thus cannot comment on it.

Konnech had also filed a defamation suit against True the Vote last year, but dropped its claim in April. In a statement, the company's attorney, Dean Pamphilis, said Konnech moved to dismiss that case after winning injunctions against True the Vote so it could "focus now on its lawsuit against the L.A. D.A.s Office for its egregious violations of Konnechs constitutional rights."

The lawsuit alleges that L.A. County prosecutors not only used election deniers as witnesses against Yu, but also hired two people closely tied to the movement to help with the initial search of Yus home and Konnechs offices.

Harry Haury and Nate Cain, the CEO and the founder of cybersecurity business Cain & Associates, respectively, were brought on as forensic investigators to accompany and assist law enforcement as it reviewed data seized from Konnech, according to the suit. Both men have deep ties to the "Stop the Steal" movement.

Haury spoke at the Pit, announcing that he believed "any Chinese nationalized citizen is a risk." He also testified before the L.A. County grand jury, according to the lawsuit. Cain is running for Congress in West Virginia, and both have raised money for True the Vote before. The duo were also part of a little-known team of cybersecurity experts that helped analyze the 2020 election for some of Trumps closest allies in the weeks after Trump lost.

Haury and Cain received ongoing access to Konnechs confidential business data, which included L.A. Countys poll worker data as well as privileged communications between Yu, Konnech and their attorneys, the complaint alleges, adding that they have not returned that information and have instead threatened to release it publicly.

Haury and Cain did not respond to requests for comment Thursday. Blacknell did not respond to a question about how the district attorney's office vets contractors.

Prosecutors have also refused to return any of the electronic devices they took from Konnech when they searched the company's Okemos, Mich., offices last year. Although prosecutors said they were going to re-evaluate charges against Yu after dismissing the case in November, the office has provided no updates on the case.

It remains unclear what, if any, evidence the district attorney's office possesses against Yu that isn't connected to the election denial movement. Transcripts of the grand jury hearing where Yu was indicted last year remain sealed.

Prosecutors tossed the initial indictment that would have relied on True the Vote's information and later filed new charges of embezzlement against Yu, claiming his violation of a contract promise not to store information outside the country was tantamount to a theft of public funds. It remains unclear if Yu actually stored data overseas.

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A mother accused of abandoning a toddler in a stroller in Larchmont Village was arrested on Wednesday night.

The woman, identified as Targie Alexandre, 24, was arrested when she showed up at her workplace, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

On Tuesday morning around 2:50 a.m., a person walking in Larchmont Village found the little girl, believed to be 2 or 3 years old, inside a stroller on the 100 block of North Larchmont Boulevard.

The toddler, who appeared to be in good health, was taken to a local hospital to be examined. Inside the stroller, police found an identification card for the childs mother, Alexandre.

A toddler was found abandoned in a stroller in Larchmont Village on Sept. 12, 2023. (OnScene.TV)

A toddler was found abandoned in a stroller in Larchmont Village on Sept. 12, 2023. (OnScene.TV)

A toddler was found abandoned in a stroller in Larchmont Village on Sept. 12, 2023. (OnScene.TV)

Targie Alexandre is seen in an undated photo provided by the Los Angeles Police Department.

At the time, police had located the childs father, but the mothers whereabouts were still unknown.

On Wednesday night, Alexandre was taken into custody on felony charges of child endangerment. She is being held on $105,000 bail.

Woman arrested for setting fire at O.C. Target store

Its unclear why Alexandre may have left the child, officials said. The incident remains under investigation.

Anyone with information can call LAPDs Wilshire Division at 213-473-0476. Anonymous tips can be submitted to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Harry Reid , the late Senate majority leader, was instrumental in Nevada's transformation at the presidential level from red to a purplish shade of blue. But his actions weren't entirely selfless. (Alex Wong / Getty Images)

Harry Reid had a hard life that took him from poverty in the Nevada desert to the height of power on Capitol Hill. Along the way, he could reliably count on one thing: tough election fights.

He lost one U.S. Senate contest by 624 votes. He won another by less than .01%.

"I should have lost that race," Reid told Jon Ralston, author of an upcoming biography, after being reelected to the Senate in 1998 by just 401 votes.

He vowed never to let that happen again.

And so Reid, cunning and ruthless in equal measure, leveraged his enormous clout and fundraising muscle to turn Nevada's creaky state party into a campaign juggernaut.

He not only won a fourth term in 2004, but prevailed after another brutal campaign six years later. In the process, Reid pushed Nevada to the fore of the presidential nominating process and helped turn the state from reliably red to a purplish shade of blue.

Nevada remains a campaign battleground and will be hotly contested again in 2024. But Democrats start with an edge after winning every presidential election here since 2008. They had lost eight of the previous 10.

That tilt away from the Republican Party is part of a sweeping political makeover of the West, from the Pacific Coast to the Rocky Mountains, that has turned much of the former GOP stronghold into Democratic turf.

In this series, "The New West," I'm looking at the reasons behind the two-decade-long shift, which has redrawn the national political map and scrambled the race for the White House.

Part of the shift is due to the GOP's sharp rightward turn, which has alienated many younger, independent and suburban voters who prefer a more broad-minded, less harshly judgmental attitude, especially on social issues.

Some of it is from demographic changes: the relocation of left-leaning Californians to places like Nevada and the growth and increased clout of Democratic-leaning Latinos and other nonwhite voters.

Some of it can be attributed to determined individuals.

In California it was President Clinton, who sought to ensure his 1996 reelection by lavishing the state with time and attention.

Read more: How California, land of Nixon and Reagan, turned blue and changed American politics

In Nevada it was Reid  arguably the most powerful elected official in the state's history  who died nearly two years ago but whose handiwork continues to shape its political landscape.

He had a crucial ally in the Culinary Union, which represents the workers who keep the state's fun-and-frolic industries up and running  and regularly musters one of the most skilled and effective voter turnout operations in the country.

The Las Vegas Culinary Union canvasses door-to-door to encourage voter turnout, including early in the pandemic for the 2020 election. (Mark Z. Barabak / Los Angeles Times)

For months before an election, hundreds of paid door-knockers work eight to nine hours a day, six days a week, persisting even when temperatures crawl past a cruel 110 degrees.

Good luck finding very many others willing to do that.

In 1994, Democrats suffered a wipeout of cataclysmic proportions.

The party lost 54 House seats nationwide and eight in the Senate, giving Republicans unified control of Congress for the first time in more than 40 years. In Nevada, Democrats lost a congressman and surrendered control of the state Assembly.

"All of us were reeling," recalled Barbara Buckley, a Democrat who was first elected to Nevada's Assembly that year.

It was clear, she said, where blame lay: "Us. ... We were losing."

Nevada Democrats were "not coordinated, not organized, not coalesced, not talking about issues people care[d] about," Buckley said.

Meetings were convened. Many meetings over many years that included assorted Democratic politicians and their allies.

"There was this realization that there needed to be more organization, more coordination," said Buckley, who went on to represent the Las Vegas area for 10 years and become Nevada's first female Assembly speaker. "Everyone needed to up their game."

Reid was among those participating in the postmortems, his interest and engagement growing considerably after his 1998 political near-death experience.

Read more: Urbanization, Latinos and a far-right GOP. How New Mexico went from battleground to blue

A big part of the problem was the state party, which, as Ralston describes it, was more of a "kaffeeklatsch" for reminiscing old-timers than a serious campaign organization. So Reid seized control, recruiting experienced hands to professionalize operations, find out where Nevada's likely Democratic voters lived and make sure they turned out.

One of his most important hires was Rebecca Lambe, a savvy veteran of Missouri politics, who arrived at party headquarters in Las Vegas in 2003 to find a receptionist, an intern, a scattering of cardboard boxes and some beat-up furniture.

She led the party's rebuilding from the ground up.

"It was organizing," Lambe, who became Reid's political right hand, said on a recent oven-hot afternoon. "It was voter registration. It was data. It was opposition research. It was the gamut."

In 2007, Democrats gained an enormous advantage after the party took control of the Senate and Reid became majority leader. He brought a new, Western perspective to the role, and instantly became one of the most formidable lawmakers  and prolific fundraisers  in Washington.

From then on, the state party and its ambitious revamping work never wanted for cash.

Years earlier, Reid had chosen Steven Horsford, head of the Culinary Union's job training program, to serve on the Democratic National Committee. That put the senator's proxy in a key position when the party looked to shake things up.

Iowa and New Hampshire  two overwhelmingly white, heavily rural states  had long dominated the presidential selection process by voting first. Democrats decided to broaden the competition, starting in 2008, by revamping their political calendar.

Several Western states bid to hold early caucuses after Iowa's. South Carolina, which has a large Black population, was awarded a primary to follow New Hampshire's.

Horsford helped make Nevada's case.

"We made the argument ... [based on] the diversity of the people here," said Horsford, now a Las Vegas congressman and head of the Congressional Black Caucus, also citing "the ability to do true retail politics, the growing labor movement and the fact that it's not an expensive media market."

Nevada beat out Arizona and Colorado, among other states, to claim the early slot. (It "didn't hurt any," said Howard Dean, national party chairman at the time, that the Senate's top Democrat called the state home.)

Once Nevada prevailed, Reid made it his personal mission to ensure the caucuses ran smoothly  not just to avoid embarrassment, but also as part of his party-building strategy.

(Republicans moved up their caucuses to coincide with the Democratic balloting, but the GOP contests didn't draw nearly as much voter interest or attention from candidates.)

Jim Manley, a top congressional aide to Reid at the time, remembers the senator devoting long hours to "hectoring, phone calls, public pressure" to see that the party's large field of presidential hopefuls came to Nevada early and often, energizing Democrats.

Read more: From red bastion to blue bulwark: What political shift in Colorado and West means for U.S.

"But it wasn't just brute strength or manipulation," Manley said. "It was making the case that Nevada"  with its burgeoning minority population and growing union membership  "was a rising state, trending Democratic."

A steady stream of presidential contestants campaigned in Nevada ahead of the party's 2008 caucuses, which drew wide national notice but ended in a muddle. Hillary Clinton topped the vote tally. However, when delegates were apportioned, Barack Obama finished with the most.

The undisputed winner was Reid.

Turnout for the Democratic caucuses exceeded expectation, topping 117,000 participants. (In 2004, fewer than 10,000 people bothered showing up.)

Better still, from Reid's perspective: On caucus day alone, his party registered 30,000 new voters.

D. Taylor, head of the Culinary Union's parent, UNITE HERE, remembers being at one of the earlier meetings with Reid and despairing Democrats.

Seated recently in his cramped office at the Culinary Union's scruffy headquarters just off the Las Vegas Strip, Taylor recalls telling them, "The last people you need to talk to are people like me."

Culinary Union Local 226, based just off the Las Vegas Strip, has become a powerhouse in Nevada politics, benefiting workers and Democrats. (Mark Z. Barabak / Los Angeles Times)

Nevada was changing, rapidly. The population was exploding  the state has gained more than 1 million people since the latest turn of the century  and the percentages of Black, Latino, Asian American and Pacific Islander residents were soaring as well.

Taylor could see it in the ranks of the Culinary Union.

Founded in 1935, it had helped recruit the workforce that turned Las Vegas into the internationally renowned gambling and tourist mecca we now know (albeit one that remained segregated into the 1960s). Today, the union's roughly 60,000 members come from nearly 200 countries; just about half are immigrants.

Turning Nevada's abundant newcomers into Democrats and moving them to the polls was essential to Reid's operation and vital to the state's political conversion.

The Culinary Union became an indispensable part of the turnout effort. And crucial to its success were the peer-to-peer relationships that members forged in their respective communities.

"People came out of the hotels  guest room attendants, banquet servers, bartenders"  and went door-to-door, said Maggie Carlton, a former coffee shop server who canvassed for the Culinary Union before she was elected in 1998, with the union's strong support, to the state Senate.

Labor leader D. Taylor with then-President Obama in the back of a group photo that Obama signed with thanks to the Vegas Culinary Union. Taylor was among the union activists who worked with Harry Reid to build support for Democrats among newcomers to Nevada. (Mark Z. Barabak / Los Angeles Times)

"We get it," said Carlton, who went on to became the state's longest-serving female lawmaker before term limits ended her time in office in 2022. "We're talking to our friends and families. A lot of them may be people they work right alongside when they're in the hotel."

Horsford suggests that he never would have been elected but for the union's backing and the way its troops approach elections  without emphasizing party or a particular candidate.

"That's not what motivates their members," Horsford said. "It's, 'Go vote for this issue. Healthcare. Immigration. Better education or jobs. And, oh, this is where this person stands and why we support them.'"

Reid, deeply respected and widely reviled  hence those numerous hard-fought elections  left a lasting mark on his home state.

He delivered a fortune in federal funding and blocked creation of a nuclear waste dump at Yucca Mountain, less than 100 miles from Las Vegas.

Reid shaped Nevada politics like few others. Now that he's departed, Republicans hope to end Democrats' presidential win streak, starting next year.

But there's no forgetting him.

When candidates fly to Las Vegas to campaign, they touch down just off the Strip, its fantasia skyline in clear view, at Harry Reid International Airport.

Get the latest from Mark Z. Barabak

Focusing on politics out West, from the Golden Gate to the U.S. Capitol.

Sign me up.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Fentanyl and meth seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in Arizona are displayed in 2019. (Mamta Popat / Associated Press)

Despite an increase in fentanyl-related deaths and surging police seizures of the drug, a new survey finds that parents are not talking about the dangers of fentanyl with their family because they don't feel knowledgeable enough on the topic.

Earlier this year California Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta deemed the growing popularity of fentanyl a "multifaceted public health and safety issue." His statement followed a seizure of a combined 40 pounds of fentanyl from two separate cases in Merced County.

Song for Charlie, a nonprofit that raises awareness of counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl, in partnership with the California Department of Health Care Services, commissioned a survey of 1,574 California residents, which included parents, young adults and teens, in May and June of this year.

Four in 10 young adults and half of teens surveyed said they aren't knowledgeable about the issues surrounding fentanyl.

Read more: More teenagers dying from fentanyl. 'It has a hold on me, and I dont know why'

Parents reported "lack of knowledge" as a key barrier that keeps them from talking about the issue with their children.

Young adults cited "fear of judgment, lack of comfort and potential consequences" as some of the most significant obstacles to discussing prescription pill misuse with their parents.

To encourage conversations between youth and their guardians, the two entities established the online tool the New Drug Talk: Connect to Protect. The goal is to give parents confidence so they can speak to the issue in an informed way, said Ed Ternan, president of the nonprofit.

Read more: With overdose deaths rising, here's how to test drugs for fentanyl

Here are tips and guidance that Song for Charlie and its partners have shared to fuel ongoing conversations at home.

What to know before you talk

As parents plan for the discussion, the first step is to be educated on the subject. The online tools are a good way to become informed.

Parents aren't expected to become experts on the topic, but it's recommend they choose three concepts to cover, such as why fentanyl is risky, how fentanyl can be mixed with counterfeit pills and what can be done.

The learning material provided in the online tools is offered in three grade levels  middle school, high school and post high school  as well as information for young people who aren't in school. The material is also categorized by a person's knowledge of fentanyl.

How to start the conversation

As parents are getting familiar with the facts, the nonprofit recommends letting teens or young adults know that they want to talk about fentanyl.

"The dialogue should come out of a place of love and concern, no judgment, and really give the young people the space to respond," he said.

Ternan reminds parents that this conversation isn't a lecture, it's a dialogue. Parents shouldn't expect to discuss this topic in one sitting. "You can take breaks or come back to the conversation at a later time," he said.

When parents feel prepared, they should open the discussion by asking questions or offering to learn about this topic together. Ternan recommends saying: "Hey, I've heard something that has me concerned, have you heard about this too?"

"What are you hearing?"

"Maybe we should both learn about this new issue together?"

Don't be afraid to practice the talking points with your partner, a friend or in front of the mirror, he said.

Be prepared for your child's response

Parents and guardians should be mindful of how a child can react to this conversation.

The child might say things like, "I know what I'm doing, don't worry about me," or "Don't you trust me?" Try to anticipate how the conversation may go and come prepared to respond calmly.

Even if the child feels the information doesn't pertain to them or their lives, Ternan said, parents can appeal to their child's care for their friends, who could become victims of the drug.

Ask about your children's friends

During a child's teen and young adulthood years their friend group is very important to them, Ternan said. Parents can ask what their child's friend group is saying about the drug as another way to navigate the subject.

Fentanyl is more dangerous than most other drugs

According to Ternan, the way parents approach the conversation about fentanyl will be different from the way they learned about the dangers of drugs in the past. Fentanyl is more potent and dangerous than most other drugs, he said.

"We were warned about getting off the wrong track and our interaction with drugs was going to be like a [path]; if you did too much you would become dependent and have negative consequences down the line," he said.

Now, parents, advocates and educators need to intervene sooner.

"It's less like a path and more like a minefield where kids, their first, second or third step into that minefield could be fatal," he said.

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Leveling off after steady increases since early April, Lake Mead appears to have reached its peak for the year  more than 22 feet above last year.

That remarkable climb marks the end of a dizzying year and a half that brought us a body in a barrel, a speedboat sticking out of the lake bottom and at least 23 deaths just this year alone.

And we could see it all happen again.

Average daily levels computed by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation show the surface of Lake Mead at 1,066.32 feet above sea level on Sept. 7. Since then, it has hovered around the same level and come down slightly, now at 1,066.25 feet as of midday Wednesday.

Lake Meads level compared to the previous five years. (U.S. Bureau of Reclamation)

That beats forecasts from earlier this year when Reclamation said the lake would reach 1,065.59 by the end of September. Its always possible Reclamation might adjust operations in a way that increases the lake level this month. Its a simple equation: how much comes in from Lake Powell, and how much gets sent downriver through Hoover Dam? Tweaks to operations at the dams could change the picture.

Teacher of the year now a convicted felon after stealing for students

Recent fluctuations in releases from Hoover Dam have all been within normal ranges, according to Reclamation spokesman Doug Hendrix.

Hoover operators coordinate in real time with the Western Area Power Administration to generate energy when it is most needed in the southwestern market. High volume water releases will occur when there is higher power demand, Hendrix said. Low releases will occur when there is not a significant demand on the system and energy prices are low.

Lake Powells level compared to the previous five years. (U.S. Bureau of Reclamation)

At this point, Lake Powell has resumed typical operations. Graphs showing the level at Lake Powell  3,573.69 feet on Monday  indicate that releases slowed down over the past week. Thats contributing to the overall picture, but it takes a couple of days for water leaving Glen Canyon Dam to reach Lake Mead. Since July 8, releases from Glen Canyon have driven Lake Meads level up, while Lake Powell followed a seasonal summer trend of decline.

The end result: Lake Mead is 34% full nearing the end of the 2022-23 water year, which runs from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30 each year. Lake Powell is 38% full.

Lake Mead is currently 34% full according to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.

Lake Powell (lower left) is 38% full, according to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.

A repeat of the record snowpack this winter would help the Colorado River tremendously. The drop in water levels in the previous water year was erased at Lake Powell, but not quite at Lake Mead.

But banking on something as uncertain as the weather is part of the reason were here in the first place. Scientists have been warning about the effects of climate change for a long time, and parts of Southern Nevada are still in drought conditions. Arizona is worse, and parts of New Mexico are still under extreme drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

The highlights  and lowlights  of Lake Mead over the past year and a half:

BOAT RAMPS: The National Park Service has had a constant job of adjusting boat ramps over recent years as the drought took its toll on the lake. Aside from frequent updates as conditions change, boat ramps were at the center of two additional stories recently. At the end of August last year, Lake Mead officials discovered an unapproved boat ramp operating near Echo Bay. Two years ago, the South Cove launch ramp had to be closed (its no longer operating) as the National Park Service hauled heavy equipment out of the lake after it went off the end of the ramp.

(Shawna Hollister/KLAS)

BODY IN A BARREL: On May 1, 2022, boaters found a body in a barrel near Hemenway Harbor. The discovery was the first of four sets of skeletal remains found at the lake over the next five months.

LOWEST LEVEL: On July 27, 2022, the lake hit its lowest point since it was filled in the 1930s, dipping to 1,041.71 feet above sea level. Within a month, the lake level rose more than 2 1/2 feet. As 2023 began, a very wet winter changed the picture entirely, rebuilding water in the Colorado River basin. Forecasts at the time showed that Reclamation expected Lake Mead to drop below 1,020 feet in July of 2023.

HENDERSON WATER: When the water dropped below 1,050 feet last year, it set off a big problem as some intake pipes that worked for years were no longer able to pull water from Saddle Island. Hendersons water supply relied on that pipeline, but the city had to adjust and buy its water from the Southern Nevada Water Authority. The Basic Water Company declared bankruptcy when the pipeline went dry. Today, even though the lake is more than 15 feet higher than the intake pipe, Henderson continues to buy 100% of its water from SNWA, according to a Henderson spokesperson.

A speedboat remains vertical and almost on dry land at Lake Mead. June 12, 2022 (Photo: Duncan Phenix, KLAS)

VERTICAL SPEEDBOAT: On May 23, Nexstars KLAS reported on a boat that had been submerged for years in the Government Wash area of the lake. The vertical speedboat or Lake Mead monolith became a symbol of the ongoing droughts effect on the lake. Within two months, the boat was on dry land as the lake level plunged. Now, the bow of the boat is barely above water as the lake levels off.

MONSOON DAMAGE: A couple of days before Tropical Storm Hilary found its way to Southern Nevada in August, a monsoon storm dealt heavy damage to Las Vegas Boat Harbor. Owners estimate the storm did more than $1 million in damage to docks and other facilities that serve the boating community.

DEADLY YEAR: By the time Labor Day arrived, the National Park Service was urging visitors to pay attention to safety concerns. We have had 23 fatalities and many serious incidents this year and we need your help to arrest the trend, Lake Mead Superintendent Mike Gauthier said.

Two people died in an Aug. 12 crash involving another boater who now faces a DUI charge. In addition, six deaths were reported over Fathers Day weekend, including three deaths in a multiple-car crash.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com.
Mayor Brandon Johnson visits residents on July 3, 2023, in the Austin neighborhood, where flooding occurred in homes after heavy rains. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson will explore the possibility of a city-owned grocery store, an idea long supported by activists to provide relief for neighborhoods without good shopping options but that could run into stiff economic headwinds.

Johnson announced a partnership with the Economic Security Project to explore the possibility of a city-owned grocery store. The first step will be to perform a feasibility study, though the city did not provide a timeline.

Advertisement

All Chicagoans deserve to live near convenient, affordable, healthy grocery options. We know access to grocery stores is already a challenge for many residents, especially on the South and West sides, Johnson said in a statement. A better, stronger, safer future is one where our youth and our communities have access to the tools and resources they need to thrive. My administration is committed to advancing innovative, whole-of-government approaches to address these inequities.

Food insecurity and a lack of shopping options is a long-standing problem.

Advertisement

Former Mayor Rahm Emanuel attempted to address food insecurity by promoting an effort to end food deserts, a goal he didnt achieve, and bringing a Whole Foods to Englewood, which was shuttered after several years in operation. While former Mayor Lori Lightfoot criticized companies for closing stores in primarily Black and brown neighborhoods, she also faced questions about replacing the Whole Foods in Englewood with a Save-A- Lot.

The idea of a municipally owned grocery has been implemented in some small towns but is largely untested in larger cities.

Ex-Ald. Ameya Pawar praised the idea, comparing it to other public goods subsidized by government.

The city of Chicago is reimagining the role government can play in our lives by exploring a public option for grocery stores via a municipally owned grocery store and market, said Pawar, senior adviser at Economic Security Project. Not dissimilar from the way a library or the postal service operates, a public option offers economic choice and power to communities.

Sam Sanchez, a prominent Chicago restaurateur, tweeted the intent was noble but that the idea wasnt good, as the city would be operating in the red and (losing) tax payers money.

Control crime and business will come, Sanchez tweeted.

gpratt@chicagotribune.com
North Carolina is one of the fastest growing states in the U.S., drawing in more people who are renting apartments and homes.

Many leasing contracts and agreements come with conditions about what a tenant can and cant do on a property, but there are also several state rules and regulations in place related to renter and landlord rights too.

State law requires landlords to do whatever is necessary to put and keep a home in fit and habitable conditions for tenants. But do they have the right to to come and go as they please?

Heres what to know.

Can landlords enter unannounced or could it be considered trespassing?

According to Isaac Sturgill with Legal Aid of North Carolina, state law generally requires a landlord to respect the tenants right to quiet enjoyment of the property.

Although there may be instances when it is justifiable for a landlord to enter the property unannounced, like to make an emergency repair, a landlord who shows up unexpectedly, often, and without a legitimate reason to do so would likely be violating the tenants right to quiet enjoyment, Sturgill, the Charlotte Housing Project Director for LANC, told The Charlotte Observer.

[RELATED: Here are some important things to know about your tenant rights in North Carolina]

According to Safewise, North Carolina is one of 13 states that doesnt limit entry for landlords.

You can find more information about the basic rights of tenants and landlords in Chapter 42 of the state statute at ncleg.gov.
Lane County and the Oregon Department of Transportation have designated seven miles of London Road, from Cottage Grove to Cottage Grove Lake, a safety corridor. The two-year pilot project is part of ODOT's new county safety corridor program.

Due to complaints about speeders, new speed limit signs will be posted in the coming weeks along portions of London Road and South Sixth Street on the east side of Interstate 5 near Cottage Grove. Traffic enforcement will also be increased.

The first seven miles of London Road from Latham Road to Cottage Grove Reservoir were designated in July 2021 as the "London Road Safety Corridor," which means it gets overtime traffic enforcement, doubling of traffic violation fines, public education campaigns and engineering improvements, according to Lane County.

"More people have been killed or seriously injured on the first seven miles of London Road between Cottage Grove and the lake than most roads in Oregon," the county said, noting most of the serious crashes on London Road have involved drugs and/or alcohol.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Lane Countys request to the Oregon Department of Transportation and the Oregon Speed Zone Panel to lower the speed limit on portions of the road close to Cottage Grove was approved Aug. 30. The lower speed limits are:

45 mph on South Sixth Street from I-5/Goddard Lane to Latham Road.

45 mph from Latham Road to Hootens Corner Road.

50 mph from Hootens Corner Road to Williams Creek Loop.

A county map shows the seven-mile area covered by the London Road safety corridor.

In addition to the lower speed limits, Lane County will enhance recommended speed signs around curves.

While it may feel comfortable to drive fast on a rural road, please keep in mind that there are homes along the roads with people needing to pull in and out of driveways and walk across the street to check their mailboxes, Lane County senior transportation planner Becky Taylor said. Most traffic fatalities and serious injury crashes involve excessive speeds.

The doubled traffic fines within the safety corridor are intended to make people think twice about speeding and do not generate enough revenue to support enforcement activities, the county said. Enforcement is primarily funded by grants for officers willing to work overtime shifts.

Haleigh Kochanski is a breaking news and public safety reporter for The Register-Guard. You may reach her at HKochanski@registerguard.com

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: London Road speed limits reduced near Cottage Grove, Oregon
A Las Vegas family has broken its silence to double down on claims that UFOs landed in the backyard  as they showed off drawings that they made of the apparent alien sightings.

The Kenmore family, who went viral earlier this year after calling 911 to report that two ten-foot aliens had landed in their backyard, spoke out for the first time in an interview with Inside Edition.

I believe I saw something that wasnt from Earth, youngest son Joshua said.

The family members created drawings of what they claimed to have seen as they also revealed that they saw a black Chevrolet Suburban with government plates on it soon after the extraterrestrial encounter.

The family remained anonymous for months out of fear of being ridiculed but said that, since their UFO visit, strangers have flocked to their house to see where the aliens landed  with some even climbing over the fence.

The familys lawyer Sam Heidari, who was hired to sue any trespassers, told Inside Edition the Kenmores didnt want that publicity.

The only thing they did was report it to the police, he said.

Mr Heidari said he believes that the Kenmores believe what they saw was real.

The family released drawings of the supposed UFOs in an effort to try to further substantiate their claims.

One of the sons Bobby drew a figure with glowing, antennae-like ears and a mouth full of gnashing teeth. He said the being didnt appear to have a nose.

Meanwhile, eldest son Angel coloured in his alien with gray pencil, noting that he was trying to keep the colour accurate to what he had seen.

Angels drawing (Inside edition)

He told Inside Edition the alien had a ball of light beside it and stood with one leg bent.

Describing the apparent encounter on the evening of 1 May, , Angel said that he and his brother heard something falling from the sky before they then observed a flash of light.

The brothers said that they then felt the impact of something hitting the ground and heard a loud bang.

The two teenagers were then hit with a shockwave, they claimed, which they likened to an out of body experience.

Angel claimed he then tried to look at the fallen object but the whole backyard was blurry, and he heard thousands of footsteps all around him before the blurriness subsided.

The teen said he could make out a tall, very thin creature standing between eight and 10 feet tall. Panicking, he called Bobby to the backyard, who told him to go inside.

Angel said the creature had weird-looking feet and a big face and eyes and a big mouth.

I could hear his loud deep breathing and see his stomach move, he said.

The Kenmore family (Inside Edition)

The teenager went back inside and called the police.

Theres like a eight foot person... and it has big eyes and its looking at us, he said to the operator in the now-viral 911 call. I swear to God, its not a joke.

That same night, a police officers bodycam captured a greenish light blazing through the sky.

An officer repsonding to the familys home told them: Im not gonna BS you guys. One of my partners said they saw something fall out of the sky too.

Angel said an officer walked with the family to the backyard and pointed at a perfect circle that had been etched into the ground.

A perfect circle could be seen in the backyard (YouTube)

Angels story was further corroborated by footage from a neighbours Ring camera, which captured a whooshing sound and an enormous bang.

Angel previously spoke out bout his experience in a video posted to YouTube in June.

This is not a conspiracy theory. I am not making this story up for clout or fame, he said in the video, which has had just under a million views.

While the family stand by the story, Mick West, a writer who specialises in debunking false conspiracy theories, refuted the claims.

He told Inside Edition that an alternate explanation could be a raccoon sitting on top of the backyard fence  hence the big eyes  or even a coyote.

The apparent UFO incident comes after alleged non-human alien corpses were shown to Mexican politicians at the countrys Congress this week.

A self-described UFO expert claimed the two small corpses were retrieved from Cusco, Peru.

They were presented in windowed boxes in Mexico City on Wednesday, stirring excitement within the UFO conspiracy theorist community.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A judge sentenced a Las Vegas man on Thursday to 21 years in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release after he recorded himself sexually assaulting a teenager in 2018.

In November 2022, Mohamed Muhina, 28, pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of children, the Department of Justice said.

In 2017, Muhina started messaging a 14-year-old girl on Facebook Messenger, according to court documents. He later drove to her home, pulled her into his car, and sexually assaulted her despite her pleas to stop, the DOJ said.

FBI seeks additional victims of man accused in sexual assault of a minor

Between September 2017 and January 2018, Muhina sexually assaulted the victim two more times, court documents said. Then, in February 2018, Muhina grabbed the victim while she was walking to school, forced her into his car, took her to his apartment, and sexually assaulted her, according to the DOJ.

Muhinas cell phones had several images and videos of him sexually assaulting young girls, including the victim.

The defendant is a predator who actively sought out one of our most vulnerable, a 14-year-old child, and repeatedly committed sexual assaults, ignoring the victims cries and pleas to stop, U.S. Attorney Jason Frierson said. This case is another example of our offices commitment to bringing to justice those who sexually exploit children in our communities. Todays sentence will protect children from future crimes by the defendant.

United States District Judge Andrew Gordon sentenced Muhina to 21 years in prison, with a lifetime of supervised release to follow.

Muhina will be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

Knowing that the defendant will serve the next 21 years in federal prison, ensures there is one less predator victimizing the most innocent and vulnerable members of our community, said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI. This sentencing is a success in the fight against those who exploit the vulnerable and illustrates our dedication to bring these criminals to justice.

We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute, and hold accountable those who exploit children, Frierson added.

Anyone with information on suspected child sexual exploitation can contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or online.

Resources for survivors of sexual assault or abuse can be found at this link.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
This combo of images released by the McKenzie County, N.D., Correctional Facility show, from left, Mark McGregor Michael Garcia, Darrell Merrell and Joseph Vandewalker. Darrell Merrell, the last of four men charged in an alleged scheme to steal millions of dollars worth of crude oil in western North Dakota, was been sentenced Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. A state district court judge sentenced him to serve nearly a year in jail and two years of supervised probation and to pay $200,000 restitution. Defendants Michael Garcia, Mark McGregor and Joseph Vandewalker were sentenced in past months to varying years in prison after pleading guilty to charges. (McKenzie County Correctional Facility via AP)

The last of four men charged in a scheme to steal millions of dollars worth of crude oil in western North Dakota has been sentenced.

Darrell Woody Merrell, of Watford City, North Dakota, on Thursday pleaded guilty to felony charges of theft conspiracy and dealing in stolen property. A state district court judge sentenced him to serve nearly a year in jail and two years of supervised probation and to pay $200,000 restitution.

Defense attorney Bob Bolinske Jr. told The Associated Press the jail sentence instead of prison time is a huge, huge benefit to Merrell.

It's nothing he's happy about, but it was a lot of relief off of him and kind of a testament to his information that he provided regarding a lot of other bad activity going on out there with relation to oil, Bolinske said. The judge had previously rejected an initial plea deal with no jail time, he said.

Prosecutor Ty Skarda confirmed that Merrell is the last defendant to be sentenced in connection with the case, telling AP, I'm glad we had a successful prosecution for all that were involved here in McKenzie County" and that the case is done and resolved.

Defendants Michael Garcia, Mark McGregor and Joseph Vandewalker were sentenced in past months to varying years in prison after pleading guilty to charges.

Authorities in 2022 alleged the scheme in which truck drivers Merrell and Vandewalker skimmed crude oil by manipulating equipment during deliveries to a Crestwood Midstream facility, and stored the oil in tanks near Watford City, to be sold later.

McGregor organized transportation, managed storage and communicated about pickups of the oil, according to court documents.

Authorities accused Garcia of being the money link between the producer/marketer selling the stolen crude oil and the recruited drivers out stealing the crude oil, according to court documents.

Merrell told a sheriff's deputy last year that Garcia approached him about stealing crude oil, according to the deputy's affidavit.

It quickly grew, as it does when you get wrapped up into something like this, you start seeing dollar signs and it quickly grew out of hand, Merrell said, according to the affidavit.

A search of Garcia's bank records indicated he paid Merrell over $26,000 and Vandewalker over $58,000 via bank transfers and checks, not including cash; Merrell told the deputy that Garcia usually hands him an envelope full of cash," according to the affidavit.

The scheme involved over $2.4 million worth of crude oil in the period from November 2020 to March 2022, according to the court document.

Garcia pleaded guilty in December 2022 to felony charges of theft conspiracy and leading a criminal association. The judge sentenced him to seven years in prison.

His attorney wrote in a sentencing document that Garcia suffered a head injury in war that caused him cognitive difficulties.

This scheme involved higher level players that persuaded Mr. Garcia to participate and run the ground game so that the masterminds of the operation will profit handsomely off" of stolen oil, the attorney wrote. "The masterminds sought out Mr. Garcia and used him to facilitate the scheme."

Vandewalker and McGregor earlier this year separately pleaded guilty to felony charges of theft conspiracy and dealing in stolen property, and were sentenced to three years and four years in prison, respectively.

Garcia, Vandewalker and McGregor also must pay $200,000 of restitution apiece, and serve periods of supervised probation.

A Crestwood spokesperson did not immediately respond to AP's emailed request for comment.

Skarda told AP there is or was a federal investigation into the case, but said he didnt know its results. North Dakota U.S. Attorney's Office spokesman Terry Van Horn confirmed an ongoing investigation, but declined to comment on its status or future prosecutorial proceedings.
House Speaker Tim Moore has a solution for the gun violence that has sent UNC-Chapel Hill into lockdown twice in a matter of weeks: arm college students.

Seriously?

Moore seemed to suggest that college campuses shouldnt be gun-free zones, saying the best deterrent against a criminal with a gun is a good guy with a gun, The News & Observer reported Thursday.

Moore then went on to question why students have to be unarmed when clearly theres a way bad guys can get on campus.

Because what we need is for thousands of college students to be walking around with firearms in their backpacks or hoisted to their hip at frat parties.

The good guys with guns myth, coined by the National Rifle Association, is often parroted in response to those who call for stricter gun laws. As school shootings have increased across the country, many conservatives have suggested that teachers ought to be armed to better protect their students. Bills have been proposed in the North Carolina General Assembly that would give raises to teachers that undergo basic police training and carry guns at school, though they havent passed.

But this theory is problematic for a number of reasons. It risks an increase in unintentional shootings from unsafe storage and insufficient training. Simply put, the idea that more guns might lead to fewer deaths is illogical and unsupported by evidence. Reporting has shown that shootings are stopped by bystanders only a small percentage of the time, and higher rates of gun ownership is correlated with higher, not lower, rates of firearm homicides.

The United States is the only country in the world that has more guns than people. If having more guns really makes us safer, then why do far more people die from gun violence in America than in any other developed country?

Moore is right that we cant simply snap our fingers and get rid of guns. Thats both unrealistic and unconstitutional, as Americans do have a right to bear arms. But gun violence is on the rise in part because we have allowed our society to become saturated with firearms, and inviting even further proliferation is the last thing we need.

There are steps that can be taken to address gun violence  reasonable ones that dont involve an 18-year-old bringing a Glock to Biology 101. Universal background checks, restrictions on assault weapons and a red flag law, which allows authorities to temporarily take guns away from those deemed to be a threat to themselves or others, would be a start. It may not solve every problem, but its better than nothing.

The problem is that lawmakers have historically refused to take such steps, and they dont show signs of changing that anytime soon. According to WRAL, Moore said theres little chance of the legislature even passing something like a red flag law, which could keep guns out of dangerous hands, despite recent events and the pleas of traumatized UNC-Chapel Hill students.

Instead, Moore and his colleagues might want more weapons, not fewer, on these college campuses. With ludicrous suggestions like these, Republicans arent even bothering to pretend they take gun violence seriously. Rather than passing laws that might make us safer, they want to turn college campuses into the Wild West. God help us all.
Theres a new development in the story of Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) being forcibly removed from a local performance of the musical Beetlejuice for causing a disturbance (read: reportedly vaping, singing, and recording long videos on her phone against theater policy), and its a doozy. Apparently, one of the audience members seated directly behind Boebert at Sundays show in Denver was a pregnant woman, the Denver Post reports. When the woman asked Boebert to stop vaping, she said the Congresswoman told her no point-blank.



The woman, who asked to remain anonymous, told the Post that at intermission, she went to the usher to see if she and her husband could be moved to different seats. They were told they were not the first complaint we had about Boeberts behavior. Upon returning to their seats, the woman says Boebert, an elected official, called her a sad and miserable person. Boeberts companionwhom she apparently spent much of the evening kissingthen offered to buy me and my husband cocktails. Im pregnant! the woman said.

Read more

More from Jezebel

Sign up for Jezebel's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.
Lawrence Fire Lt. Dave Amero was off duty, mowing the lawn near his Cabot Road home on September 13, 2018, when his wife told him she smelled gas in the house.

Minutes later, homes across the Merrimack Valley began exploding and bursting into flames.

Weve trained for gas emergencies but weve never expected to have anything like that, Amero said.

Amero, a 20-year veteran of the Lawrence Fire Dept., lived around the corner from 36 Chickering Road where 18-year-old Leonel Rondon was killed by a falling chimney. Amero said the damage to that home terrified his daughter.

I never want to see the look on my daughters face when that explosion happened. [It was] sheer horror. I never ever want to see that look again, he said.

Amero soon jumped into action. Armed with a wrench from a nearby fire engine, Amero ran through his neighborhood and began shutting off his neighbors gas lines. Boston 25 News Chief Photographer Adam Libertore followed him for several minutes, documenting his heroic deed.

As Im running Im like, Should I be running on the lawn or in the middle of the street? because thats where the gas lines are. I didnt even know where it was safe to be running, Amero said.

Amero estimates he shut off the gas to 50 or 60 houses on four or five different streets. He ran from home to home for around 45 minutes.

When youre in the heat of it you put everything aside and just do your job. I wasnt scared, maybe a little nervous, Amero said.

Patrick Sweeney was one of many firefighters who gave Amero a well-deserved pat on the back.

You look up to a guy like that. What Dave did was above the call of duty. He just acted right away, said Sweeney in 2018.

The Merrimack Valley gas explosions damaged dozens of homes and caused more than a billion dollars in damage throughout Andover, North Andover, and Lawrence. Ameros selfless act was a ray of light on a dark day, reminding us of what first responders  and good neighbors  are capable of.

I just kept going. I just wanted to do what I could do, Amero said. I consider that to be doing my job. On duty or off duty, thats just my job.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Every Saturday for 25 years, Sean Bianco sat in a recording studio at Capital Public Radio and selected an opera to stream across the airwaves. His listeners wrote him postcards and called in from across the world: New York, Florida, Nebraska, Poland, Finland, Japan.

The show gave the opera conductor, singer and musician pride, joy, community and music opportunities. It also led him to his wife  whom he met when, two decades ago, she called in with a request. Theyve been married for 17 years.

Bianco and his wife sat in their living room weeping as they listened to the pre-recorded goodbye he made after getting a call Aug. 30 that his position and show At the Opera were cut by the NPR-affiliated broadcaster. Hed been laid off on his birthday.

Im sad for Sacramento. Im sad for my listeners. I am sad, Bianco said.

CapRadio laid off 15 employees and cut four music shows. As audiences tune in to social media and apps like Spotify instead of the traditional airwaves, public radio stations have suffered. Hosts like Bianco, whose show was geared toward a niche audience, were ushered out.

But CapRadios problems are much deeper than a shifting media landscape, former employees and current management say: three costly construction projects combined with falling revenue have pushed the nonprofit media organization to the financial brink.

The finances are pretty severe right now for CapRadio. We owe a lot of money to vendors. We barely have enough cash to keep us going right now. We are making payroll. Its just been a very, very tough time. We have no reserves, said Tom Karlo, the interim general manager, in an interview on CapRadio Sept. 5.

The station owes vendors $3.3 million in unpaid bills from the past two fiscal years, according to a budget presentation made on Aug. 30 to CapRadios executive board. One of those vendors is NPR itself, a bill that has not been paid for more than a year.

Not included in that deficit is the rent it owes Sacramento State for its current East Sacramento headquarters, also unpaid since September 2022. It also does not include other financial assistance of an unspecified amount that the university has given the station.

Sac State owns the central license for CapRadios two powerhouse stations  KXJZ-FM (90.9) and KXPR-FM (88.9)  though CapRadio operates a total of seven FM frequencies and six FM translators that repeat the signals for those news and music stations. CapRadio also operates North State Public Radio, two stations owned by Chico State.

Bena Arao, CapRadios treasurer and chair of the Finance Committee, said that former Sacramento State president Robert S. Nelsen had approved for CapRadio to stay in its headquarters rent-free until auditors determined that to be against university rules. The university and the station are now figuring out an agreement on what CapRadio can pay. The rent was $17,787 per month as of 2022, Arao said.

Capital Public Radios current offices on the campus of Sacramento State on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The NPR-affiliated broadcaster announced layoffs this month amid costly construction projects and a dip in revenue.

Karlo started at CapRadio eight days before the layoffs, summoned by his friend Luke Wood, the new president of Sacramento State. He spent 47 years at KPBS Public Media in San Diego, which operates a PBS-affiliated TV station and an FM station carrying NPR, among other media platforms.

He replaced Jun Reina, who had been at CapRadio for 16 years, most recently as GM and executive vice president. Former employees said Reina, who served the bulk of his time as the stations chief financial officer, pushed for the three costly capital projects seen as the root of the stations present financial precarity.

Karlo led KPBS through the 1989 recession, the post-9/11 stock market crash and the 2008 financial collapse. Still, on-air last week during an interview with Insight, the stations current affairs program, Karlo said, this is a challenge for me. This is really deeper than I thought.

In 2019, CapRadio announced that it bought a 34,000-square-foot property at Seventh and I streets downtown that would become its new headquarters, bolstered by a $2.25 million investment from Sutter Health. Then the station announced it was investing in a second building: a live performance venue on Eighth and J streets, now scheduled  after over a year of delays  to open in December.

Meanwhile, the station was amid a 15-year, $2 million radio tower relocation project. The tower is responsible for transmitting KXPRs classical and jazz music station.

When fears of a recession hit, prompting advertisers to pull back, it made for tough math. Revenue has been in a decline since 2021, the financial committee reported. In the last fiscal year, corporate fundraising fell short, and the board predicted declining member support in the upcoming fiscal year.

The 2023-24 budget forecasts a 26% increase in revenue for the upcoming fiscal year. Of that, $500,000 is expected to come from the new live venue while $2 million is expected to come from state funding secured by Assemblyman Kevin McCarty, D-Sacramento.

What led to the layoffs?

Up until nine months ago, K-ZAP on CapRadio host Dennis Newhouse said, employees were told that the financial picture was pretty rosy.

In fact, public radio across the country did well during the COVID-19 pandemic: individual giving revenue to the countrys largest public radio stations reached a record high in 2020, according to a Pew Research Center analysis.

This winter, management notified staff of a temporary cash crunch but told employees not to worry about it, former music director Nick Brunner said. In the meantime, management implemented a hiring freeze and canceled travel, training, and any expenses that are not vital to meeting our public service commitment for news and cultural programming, Karlo said in an email to The Sacramento Bee.

Then, in March, the Sacramento Business Journal reported that CapRadio was tapping into operating reserve funds in order to pay for loans taken out for the construction of its new downtown headquarters. Karlo said cost overruns and regulatory hurdles added to the burden.

The station also tapped into employees health care funds, cutting coverage of premiums. Former CapRadio employees said they found out not through a notice from management or company-wide communication, but at the doctor offices, when employees were handed unexpected bills.

Karlo corroborated that the company had decided to no longer cover 100% of staff health insurance premiums, the previous coverage of which he said was an outlier within public media.

In July, Reina stepped down and, a month later, was replaced by Karlo.

When we heard they were gonna hire an interim general manager, you pretty much get the idea that that person is gonna come in, do some house cleaning, cut people, said Newhouse, who had been at the station for 18 years. Thats just business.

Brunner said that Sac State saved the station this summer.

Had the university not come in with an infusion of cash at the eleventh hour, there may not be a CapRadio, he said.

At company meetings, staff asked if they should expect layoffs and were told, all options are on the table, said Brunner.

Then, on Aug. 30, Brunner came into the office anticipating a normal work day and discovered he couldnt access his email account. He said he was pulled into a conference room and told his position had been eliminated.

Three of the other staffers laid off said they received a phone call. Bianco said he was told he couldnt record one final goodbye show.

Watching the whole thing, its like a slow-motion tornado with heartbreak at the very center of it, said Brunner, who hosted Hey, Listen, a Saturday evening show of modern music, which also featured local artists. He had worked at the station for 16 years.

When CapRadio Insight host Vicki Gonzalez asked Karlo about the lack of forewarning given to the staff, he said he would not answer questions about personnel issues, saying they are the privacy between the organization and the people.

Most of the employees laid off were part-time, CapRadio said. Twelve of the fifteen were based in Sacramento, and another three worked at North State in Chico.

Which programs did CapRadio cut?

CapRadio eliminated K-ZAP on CapRadio, Hey Listen, At the Opera and Mick Martins Blues Party. All four shows ran on Saturday, and three ran on CapRadios news station. CapRadio officials said in a news release that the programming slots would be replaced by storytelling and informational programs including The Moth, This American Life, Hidden Brain and Radiolab. The BBC World Service, distributed by another public radio in New York, streams after 10 p.m.

Brunner and Newhouse were told that the station was trying to reduce the number of live voices on air. The format of combining music and news programming on one station was unique in the industry.

Mick Martin and Newhouse will both be streaming their shows on KZAP  KZHP-FM (93.3)  a low-power, all-volunteer rock and blues station. Bianco said he intends to launch his show online.

What we dont have in this market is much variety of music, said Newhouse. All the stations are corporate, overly researched, narrow playlists.

Bianco said that his show cost the station very little. He did his own sound engineering and claimed to have donors underwriting his salary to host and produce the once-a-week show.

In an email to The Bee, Karlo said that the board and management were guided by audience data in these decisions.

An industry-wide downturn

Public radio listenership has been declining since a peak in 2017, according to the Pew Research analysis. Still, 47% of U.S. adults said they got news from radio at least sometimes in 2022.

According to Nielsen Audios Topline Ratings in the Sacramento market in August, CapRadios news station KXJZ ranks 14th among all AM and FM stations with a rating share thats dropped nearly a point since June. A share represents a percentage of all listeners tuned to a specific station at a given point in time, usually a quarter-hour at some point between 6 a.m. and midnight. KXJZ slid to a 2.3 share from 3.5 in March, according to Nielsen. Nielsen reports that roughly 103,000 people tune into CapRadios news station in a given day.

Combined with KXPR, CapRadios rating share is about a third of the markets leading stations  news and talk commercial station KFBK-AM and classic rock station KSEG-FM (96.9, The Eagle)  which had a 9.7 share.

CapRadio is the latest in a string of layoffs in public radio and news media overall as audiences ditch traditional television, radio and newspapers for Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter) and Spotify.

Earlier this year, National Public Radio laid off more than 100 employees and canceled four podcasts as it faced a $30 million budget shortfall. Southern California Public Radio, based in Pasadena under the flagship KPCC-FM, laid off 10% of its broadcast staff, as well as a portion of workers at its associated website, LAist.

Karlo said he wants to help the station evolve with the changing media landscape.

All CapRadios stories should be created with the potential to be distributed to digital and social media. We need to meet audiences where they consume content, not force them into the legacy radio model, wrote Karlo.
Article first published: Thursday, Sep. 14, 2023, 5 a.m. ET

Article last updated: Thursday, Sep. 14, 2023, 11 a.m. ET

According to the National Hurricane Centers 11 am Thursday advisory, the Category 2 hurricane Lee has weakened into a Category 1 hurricane.

Category 1 Hurricane Lee is 245 miles west-southwest of Bermuda and 750 miles south of Nantucket Massachusetts, with maximum sustained wind of 90 mph. Its moving 14 mph to the north. A tropical storm warning has been issued by forecasters for cape cod, martha's vineyard, and nantucket.

YESTERDAY (Wednesday):

Yesterday, Lee reached new lows of intensity and was downgraded from a Category 3 hurricane to a Category 2 hurricane.

Forecasters issued a hurricane watch and a tropical storm watch for portions of atlantic Canada.

CHANGES WITH THIS ADVISORY:

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for the coast of Massachusetts from Woods Hole to Hull, including Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket.

SUMMARY OF WATCHES AND WARNINGS IN EFFECT:

A Hurricane Watch is in effect for:

- Stonington, Maine to the U.S./Canada border

- New Brunswick from the U.S./Canada border to Point Lepreau, including Grand Manan Island

- Nova Scotia from Digby to Medway Harbour

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for:

- Bermuda

- Massachusetts coast from Woods Hole to Hull

- Martha's Vineyard

- Nantucket

A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for:

- Watch Hill, Rhode Island to Woods Hole Massachusetts

- Block Island

- North of Hull Massachusetts to Stonington Maine

- New Brunswick from north of Point Lepreau to Fort Lawrence

- Nova Scotia west coast from north of Digby to Fort Lawrence

- Nova Scotia southeast coast from north of Medway Harbour to Porter's Lake

A Storm Surge Watch is in effect for:

- Cape Cod Bay

- Nantucket

A Hurricane Watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the watch area. A watch is typically issued 48 hours before the anticipated first occurrence of tropical-storm-force winds, conditions that make outside preparations difficult or dangerous.

A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area within 36 hours.

A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area, generally within 48 hours.

A Storm Surge Watch means there is a possibility of life- threatening inundation, from rising water moving inland from the coastline, in the indicated locations during the next 48 hours. For a depiction of areas at risk, please see the National Weather Service Storm Surge Watch/Warning Graphic, available at hurricanes.gov.

Interests elsewhere in the northeastern United States and Atlantic Canada should monitor the progress of Lee.

HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND:

WIND: Tropical storm conditions will continue on Bermuda through Friday. Hurricane conditions are possible in the Hurricane Watch areas in Down East Maine and in Atlantic Canada on Saturday.

Tropical storm conditions are expected to begin in Cape Cod,

Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket on Friday afternoon. Tropical storm conditions are possible in the Tropical Storm Watch area elsewhere in coastal New England and Atlantic Canada late Friday into Saturday.

STORM SURGE: The combination of storm surge and tide will cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters moving inland from the shoreline. The water could reach the following heights above ground somewhere in the indicated areas if the peak surge occurs at the time of high tide...

Chatham, MA to Sagamore Beach, MA...2-4 ft Cape Cod Bay...2-4 ft Nantucket...2-4 ft Sagamore Beach, MA to Border of US/Canada...1-3 ft Boston Harbor...1-3 ft Flushing, NY to Chatham, MA...1-3 ft Montauk Point, NY to Flushing, NY...1-3 ft Long Island Sound...1-3 ft Martha's Vineyard...1-3 ft Rockaway Inlet, NY to Montauk Point, NY...1-2 ft

The deepest water will occur along the immediate coast where the surge will be accompanied by large and destructive waves. Surge-related flooding depends on the relative timing of the surge and the tidal cycle, and can vary greatly over short distances.

A dangerous storm surge could produce coastal flooding within the wind watch areas in Atlantic Canada in areas of onshore winds. Near the coast, the surge will be accompanied by large and destructive waves.

SURF: Swells generated by Lee are affecting portions of the Lesser Antilles, the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Hispaniola, the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Bahamas, Bermuda, the east coast of the United States, and are beginning to reach Atlantic Canada. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.

RAINFALL: Outer rain bands from Lee may produce rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches, or 25 to 50 millimeters, across Bermuda today into early Friday. Friday night through Saturday night, Lee is expected to produce rainfall amounts of 1 to 4 inches, or 25 to 100 millimeters, across portions of eastern New England into portions of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. This may produce localized urban and small stream flooding.

Source: National Hurricane Center

This article was generated by the South Carolina Bot, artificial intelligence software that analyzes information from the National Hurricane Center and applies it to templates created by journalists in the newsroom. We are experimenting with this and other new ways of providing more useful content to our readers and subscribers. You can report errors or bugs to mcclatchybot@mcclatchy.com.
Kori Robinson stands near her apartment in Chicago's South Shore neighborhood on Sept. 13, 2023. Although her block is relatively intact, there are a few vacant lots and a couple of boarded-up homes, including the building at left. She supports a proposed ordinance designed to preserve and create more affordable housing in South Shore. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

Kori Robinson, 29, has lived in South Shore for more than two years and worries about her familys future in the neighborhood.

In February, Robinson was laid off from her job in human resources. For now, she does not want to go back to work because of the high costs of child care, and her childrens fathers job is enough to support them. But the familys costs may soon outpace their income, said Robinson, who lives with her 5-month-old, 2-year-old and their father.

Advertisement

Their landlord did not renew the lease for their three-bedroom apartment at the beginning of the year, instead switching them to month-to-month payments, which stand at $1,300. That number could change quickly under the terms of the agreement, Robinson said.

That comes with its own set of anxiety, knowing that there are changes coming within the neighborhood and changes happening within the neighborhood already, and I have no guarantee in my living situation, on top of the fact that I am not working, Robinson said, as her kids chattered in the background.

Advertisement

Chicago Ald. Desmon Yancy, 5th, stands next at a sign posted in a city-owned vacant lot in the 2200 block of East 71st Street in the South Shore neighborhood, Sept. 12, 2023. Yancy wants to see vacant lots in the neighborhood transformed into affordable housing developments and community-focused establishments. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)

A group of community advocates and residents, along with Aldermen Desmon Yancy, 5th, and Jeanette Taylor, 20th, plan to introduce an ordinance Thursday at the City Council in an effort to preserve and create more affordable housing in the South Shore and Woodlawn neighborhoods, two communities where fears of gentrification and displacement from people like Robinson run high as the Obama Presidential Center takes shapes in nearby Jackson Park.

Voters in the neighborhoods overwhelmingly supported ballot referendums in Februarys election for the proposed ordinance and the development of affordable housing on the vacant lots at 63rd Street and Blackstone Avenue in Woodlawn, a component of the proposed ordinance.

Yancy, elected this May to represent South Shore, said he intends to pass the legislation by the end of the year, though I dont expect it to necessarily be an easy pass because of all the budget issues that exist in the city right now.

Still, the freshman alderman said his constituents need housing relief. Some South Shore residents get phone calls weekly from out-of-state speculators asking to purchase their condos and homes, he said.

The question of displacement comes up almost every week, where Im talking to one resident or another  be it renter, condo owner or homeowner  who has real, valid concerns with this development, Yancy said. How are we going to be able to protect against the displacement that typically comes following developments like this?

Robinson said she hopes the ordinance will turn the vacant lots and boarded-up buildings near her apartment into more housing, bring resources such as grocery stores and doctors offices to the community and keep housing affordable for current residents.

Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 47 The future Obama Presidential Center is under construction in the 6000 block of South Stony Island Avenue, Aug. 10, 2023. (Trent Sprague/Chicago Tribune)

The South Shore Housing Preservation Ordinance follows a similar  but less comprehensive  ordinance that was passed after five years of organizing and negotiations for the nearby Woodlawn neighborhood in 2020 through efforts from similar groups.

The ordinance proposes various programs to help renters and homeowners alike, including cash assistance.

Advertisement

For the renter population, which makes up the majority of South Shore, the ordinance calls for trial programs to expand tenant protections by establishing an Office of the Tenant Advocate, starting a tenant right-to-purchase initiative for renters whose landlords are selling their properties, and banning move-in fees.

For homeowners, the ordinance aims to create more affordable for-sale housing and fund grant programs for existing and prospective homeowners. Money would go toward programs such as the South Shore Loan Fund, which would set aside $5 million for the redevelopment of vacant homes, as well as $12 million in grants and down payment assistance for the Renew South Shore Program.

The ordinance also would earmark all vacant city-owned lots for the development of affordable housing, with displaced residents and residents at risk of displacement given priority for newly constructed affordable units.

Language in the ordinance calls for the measures to be supported through city funding but does not offer specifics.

[ Chicago aldermen approve Obama Presidential Center affordable housing plan ]

Dixon Romeo, a leader of the Obama Community Benefits Agreement Coalition, one of the groups behind the push for the Woodlawn and South Shore ordinances, said the South Shore ordinance comes out of years of meetings and feedback from community members who live in the area or who were displaced, as well as discussions with policy experts.

Chicago has lost so many Black folks  and that should not be the legacy of this center, said Romeo, who is also executive director of Not Me We, a community organization focused on the South Shore neighborhood.

Advertisement

Romeo said he hopes some policies included in the South Shore ordinance can be expanded citywide.

We have an opportunity over these next couple of years, and right now, to really wrestle with and address what housing looks like in the city of Chicago, Romeo said. Who is Chicago welcome for and who is Chicago planning to keep? I think there is enough space for all of us, but what that means is we have to take some bold action and part of that is the South Shore Housing Preservation Ordinance.

[ What will Obama center mean for nearby home values on the South Side? Wary of being priced out, groups push for housing benefits and protections ]

The ordinances language was crafted with the help of the Chicago Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights.

The ZIP code that includes South Shore has consistently seen the highest rates of eviction filings in Cook County, with about 3 out of every 1,000 South Shore households facing eviction in the second quarter of 2022, according to data compiled by University of Chicagos Inclusive Economy Lab.

Yancy, the alderman, stressed that his constituents also stand to benefit from the presidential center  scheduled to open in 2025 at Jackson Park after years of delays and false starts related to legal and environmental challenges. A stones throw away, the East 71st Street corridor continues struggling to leave behind the shadow of disinvestment from the last three decades.

But the promise of the U.S.s first Black president and first lady, the latter of whom is a South Shore native herself, paying homage to the South Side in particular excites many, Yancy said.

Advertisement

When you think about South Shore and Woodlawn  this is the base of Obamas votes in 08 and in 12, Yancy said. People are absolutely proud to be able to have this monument to him right down the street, but it comes with concern. Well, its a double-edged sword.

People walk through the intersection of 71st Street and South Paxton Avenue in the South Shore neighborhood, Sept. 12, 2023, in Chicago. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)

[ Development, gentrification focus of aldermanic runoffs in South Side lakefront wards ]

In an emailed statement to the Tribune, an Obama Foundation spokesperson said the organization has been pleased to see affordable housing policies like the ordinance in Woodlawn be put in place to help longtime residents.

People who have called this area home for decades should have access to the tools and policies they need to continue to do so, the spokesperson said. At the same time, we want to see property owners whose homes have been in their families sometimes for generations be able to realize gains on these assets that are often a familys greatest path to wealth creation.

Alvyn Walker, 54, has lived in South Shore on and off for the past 40 years, spending some time away while serving in the Army. Now, he works in consulting and lives with his mom at one of the single-family homes his family owns in the neighborhood.

Walker remembers the time when the neighborhood was bustling with commercial activity and had more schools and social activities before suffering an economic depression in the late 1990s.

More recently, he said he has seen property values soar, along with his familys property taxes, as we are starting to see the effects of gentrification. He said he thinks the announcement of the Obama Presidential Center has contributed to the property taxes going up around $500 in recent years annually on his mothers home.

Advertisement

He said he hopes the South Shore housing ordinance will help people like his 73-year-old mother, who is retired and on a fixed income, to be able to stay in their homes where they have lived for decades. The ordinance proposes a $2.3 million relief fund for people who are delinquent on their property tax payments.

She might not be able to afford to continue living in South Shore, Walker said. I wouldnt want to see my mom or anybody else who is in this situation being priced out of living in South Shore in their own homes.

ekane@chicagotribune.com

ayin@chicagotribune.com
Donald Trumps SiriusXM interview with Megyn Kelly probably helped her attract listeners after its release Thursday, but it may also end up helping prosecutors in his classified documents case.

During their discussion, the former president suggested that it is his right to hold on to the top-secret materials, which are at the center of a felony indictment announced earlier this summer.

Im allowed to take these documents, classified or not classified, he told Kelly. And frankly, when I have them, they become unclassified. People think you have to go through a ritual. You dont  at least in my opinion, you dont.

Trump justified his stance by pointing to the 1978 Presidential Records Act, a law enacted after the Watergate scandal to clarify that White House documents are the property of the federal government.

You can see Trump explain things away in the video clip below.

Trump on taking classified documents: Im allowed to have these documents. Im allowed to take these documentsWhen I have them, they become unclassified. People think you have to go through a ritual. You dont, at least in my opinion. pic.twitter.com/IAkdGsGnWo  Republican Accountability (@AccountableGOP) September 14, 2023

While Trump may have thought he was just speaking his truth, many legal experts suggested his statements sounded more like a confession, one that could even be played to a jury.

Im allowed to take these documents, classified or unclassified.



Credit to @megynkelly for letting him confess to the crimes in the indictment. Shell see this played at the trial by the government. https://t.co/jiuxmD0ihT  Bradley P. Moss (@BradMossEsq) September 14, 2023

So nice when Trump does prosecutors' work for them. Good confession. https://t.co/TaVc6ZEiJk  Joyce Alene (@JoyceWhiteVance) September 14, 2023

interviewers should be required to read him his rights https://t.co/sWxrGNqT5Ipic.twitter.com/X3F7bx1kYv  Xeorge Xonway (@gtconway3d) September 14, 2023

Congrats to Megyn Kelly on joining Bret Baier in the Conservative Journalists Who Extracted Trump Confessions Club. https://t.co/DKaqv8JgyN  Eric Columbus (@EricColumbus) September 14, 2023

The ritual is rule of law. https://t.co/gidTNEdRwS  Eric Owens (@ericowensdc) September 14, 2023

When people asked me why the Manhattan DA wanted to defer filling details of the prosecution's theory, THIS IS WHY. My man is going to go on tv and get his confession on. https://t.co/2MPJFy1Nux  Lee Kovarsky (@lee_kovarsky) September 14, 2023

But it wasnt just legal professionals that had thoughts about Trumps statements.

Im allowed to take a bubble bath with Iranian Battle plans, its my usual ritual https://t.co/Ss8lDZMKpc  Jared Moskowitz  (@JaredEMoskowitz) September 14, 2023

Trump has again confessed to possessing classified documents https://t.co/1Kmoe6wN6A  Mike Walker (@New_Narrative) September 14, 2023

At some point you almost begin to feel for his lawyers. (Almost being the key word there.) https://t.co/CGVosfH6ei  David Rothkopf (@djrothkopf) September 14, 2023

Trump basically admitted to waving around the classified Iran attack plan.



His lawyers must be losing their shit right now. pic.twitter.com/EoSAhjYpWv  Dave Rubin (@RubinReport) September 14, 2023

Cracking confession. "Not according to my opinion" doesn't change the law, whoever you are. https://t.co/qVPELCnwRE  Paul Niland (@PaulNiland) September 14, 2023

another public confession. like taking candy from a baby pic.twitter.com/5Q6ts1CXkD  Jennifer Now at Threads Rubin (@JRubinBlogger) September 14, 2023

Back in June, Trump was charged with dozens of federal crimes over his handling of sensitive materials after leaving the White House.

Special counsel Jack Smiths office leveled even more felony counts against the former president in July, accusing Trump of ordering the deletion of a computer server that held incriminating footage. He has pleaded not guilty in the case.

You can see Trump and Kellys entire exchange about classified documents in the video below.

Related...
Ouch.

Lenny Hochsteins latest Instagram may cut his estranged wife like a knife  a pizza knife.

The plastic surgeon, 57, shared a few snaps of him hosting family night on Wednesday at the Star Island mansion he used to share with Lisa Hochstein.

Taking pictures of him making pizza pies with their two kids, Logan, 8, and daughter Elle, 3, was apparently Hochsteins new fiancee, Katharina Mazepa, whom he thanked for being a master chef. Dad and his kids were all wearing aprons, and big smiles.

Meanwhile, mom vacated the sprawling, historic home at the end of August, as per the exes prenup. The  Real Housewives of Miami  star is still fighting to invalidate the contract signed back before their 2009 wedding in Miami-Dade County court.

Its unclear where the 41-year-old reality star is now residing, though things have become serious with her businessman boyfriend Jody Glidden; the fellow Canadians began dating in the spring. So perhaps the snaps of her estranged husband cooking in her old kitchen with Mazepa and the kids doesnt sting.

But its doubtful. The divorce, initially filed by Hochstein back in May 2022 after being seen around town with the Austrian model, is still quite contentious.

Page Six reports that the day Lisa Hochstein had to move out was awkward and chaotic. An insider told the outlet that the so-called Boob God showed up on the property while all his estranged wifes stuff was being removed.

He made the move really uncomfortable. She was trying to do her best to get everything done, the source said. He kept interfering. He should have been at work.

Lenny Hochstein admitted to being there, but accused the Bravo star of taking more than agreed upon.

About three days before the move she told me she was going to take much more than I would agree. And in that case there was a disagreement and we would go to court or mediation, he told UsWeekly in a statement. Lisa completely ignored that and not only did she take much more than I had agreed to, she essentially cleared out my house.

Regardless, anyone who has been a fan of RHOM remembers many scenes shot at that Miami Beach property over the years, even before the Hochsteins had kids.

Commenters were mixed under the doctors post.

Life is short and one has the right to seek happiness. Lenny looks happy. The kids look happy. At the end of the day, thats all that really matters. Stop the hate.

Another sided with mom: She had no choice. This has to hurt real bad.

Im glad youre happy, wrote another. But I cant help to feel bad for Lisa. This must be so painful for her.

A case management hearing was set for Thursday and another on Sept. 18, as per court records.
Ta'Kiya Young, right, is seen walking through the Blendon Township Kroger with two other women on August 24.

What highly trained police?

In his September 13 guest column, Fraternal Order of Police Executive Vice President Brian Steel makes a solid case for the need of evidence to prove a point.

My only issue with his stated position is that there is no evidence that the Blendon Township officer who stepped in front of the car and ultimately shot and killed TaKiya Young was a highly trained police officer."

May 10, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, United States; Sgt. Brian Steel, Executive Vice President of the Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge #9, speaks during a press conference Wednesday morning at Columbus Police headquarters. Central Ohio Crimestoppers is offering a reward for information that leads to arrests after shots were fired at police officers during a street takeover along Indianola Avenue in north Columbus on April 29th.Mandatory Credit: Barbara Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch

No highly trained police officer would have stepped in front of the car and pulled out his gun during an already contentious, potentially volatile situation.

His actions only fueled the fire. Following the dog debacle in which a Circleville officer released a dog to attack a young, fearful man following a police chase, Gov. Mike Dewine called for better training for officers statewide.

That needs to happen soon.

My experience has been that Ohio State Highway patrolmen are effectively and efficiently trained as evidenced by their consistency in approaching and resolving of contentious and volatile issues without the loss of life.

Perhaps modeling that training will keep Ohio out of the national news for the wrong reasons.

Dwayne Jackson, Gahanna

A decision not to get out of way

Sep 7, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Family and friends mourn the loss of Ta'Kiya Young and her unborn daughter who died Aug. 24 after a Blendon TownshipA police officer shotA Young through the windshield of a car in the Kroger parking lot, on Sunbury Road.

Letter to the editor writer Greg Wourms' insightful comments about guest columnist Terry Gilbert's piece on the TaKiya Young shooting by Blendon Township Officer Connor Grubb are well-taken.

More: Highly charged language does more harm than good in TaKiya Young police shooting| Letters

Gilbert does use rhetorical device to advocate his position in this matter, much the same as Fraternal Order of Police Executive Vice President Brian Steel does in his column published the same day as Wourms' letter.

I wonder if Wourms would also cast his critical eye on the Steel column and share his comments about the "highly trained police officer" who had to make a split-second decision."

I am not a cop, but the "split-second" decision I would have made in Grubb's position would have been to get out of the way, and if I was as "highly trained" as he was I would not have walked in front of the vehicle to begin with, with my gun out - I assume because he had a reason.

Thoughts, Mr. Wourms?

Harry Reinhart, Columbus

Letters to the Editor

More: How to submit a letter to the editor for The Columbus Dispatch

Smack in face of Steel and Wourms

Sep 7, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Family and friends mourn the loss of Ta'Kiya Young and her unborn daughter who died Aug. 24 after a Blendon Township police officer shot Young through the windshield of a car in the Kroger parking lot, on Sunbury Road.

Excellent guest column by Brian Steel giving evidence regarding the police-involved shooting of Ta'Kiya Young.

Evidence that has been omitted in previous printing and media reporting: evidence that race had nothing to do with the incident, and that the officers life was in danger.

The opinion page also printed a good letter from Greg Wourms.

However, smack in the middle on the same September 13 opinion page, the Dispatch reprinted a photo of Youngs casket with a caption, the same picture that made front page on September 9.

Reprinting that photo was a smack in the face to Steel and Wourms opinions. It was the Dispatch saying, Well print your words, but we have control.

Carmen Sauer, Columbus

What if Ta'Kiya Young were a white woman?

In the State of Ohio shoplifting is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $1,000 and jail time up to six months.

If, the initial response was for said shoplifting, then why does body camera footage from the shooting officer initially show him approaching the vehicle with his weapon drawn and his finger just off the trigger?

Since when does shoplifting merit such a heavy-handed approach?

Was the idea behind a drawn weapon to show force and intimidation? There was no evidence at the time that a violent crime had occurred.

In his recent guest column, Fraternal Order of Police Executive Vice President Brian Steel states that this "highly trained" officer made a split-second decision about whether he was about to be run over.

I'm just wondering, is it normal procedure and training to position oneself in front of a running car with a driver behind the wheel?

Also, the officers own body camera shows him moving TOWARDS the vehicle as it starts to move as if to impede her potential getaway.

If one feared for their life, wouldn't they move away from the danger?

Furthermore, even if Ta'Kiya Young had succeeded in driving away from the officers, why couldn't they have just let her go and get her license plate number?

Amelia Robinson: Shoplifting shouldn't have escalated to death in Ta'Kiya Young police shooting

They could have then gone inside, gathered the facts and evidence from the store and then went to her house to arrest her. Yet it's clear from all videos that they chose to escalate the situation leading to her death.

We can all agree that this situation was yet another unnecessary tragedy in our community.

Brian Steel and so many others can say it wasn't racially motivated, but I think many of the facts force us to at the very least ask, "If this were a white woman being accused of the same exact thing, in the same exact scenario would they have handled it differently?"

Michael A. Thompson, Grove City

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Police officer who shot pregnant shoplifter clearly not 'highly trained'
The owner of a Lexington laboratory has admitted defrauding taxpayer-funded insurance programs and hiding his business ownership to avoid more than $3.5 million in federal income taxes.

Ronald Coburn pleaded guilty this week in federal court in Lexington to one charge of health care fraud and a charge of tax evasion, according to court records.

Coburn owned LabTox LLC, which among other services tested urine drug samples for drugs.

Coburn took part in getting payments from Medicaid and Medicare for testing samples that that were not eligible for reimbursement, according to his plea agreement.

The programs will pay for testing samples if they are medically necessary, but that does not include samples people submit under court order, for purposes such as figuring out if they are in compliance with drug court rules.

With Coburns knowledge and approval, Erica Baker, a LabTox employee, got the owner of another Lexington business that facilitated court-ordered drug testing to send samples to LabTox.

Coburns plea did not identify that business, but in a separate case, the U.S. Department of Justice identified it as another Lexington company, Blue Waters Assessment & Testing Services.

According to Coburns plea, Baker persuaded the owner of Blue Waters  identified in a separate case as David Waters  to send samples to LabTox for testing.

Baker falsely told Waters that the court-ordered drug tests could be billed to Medicaid and Medicare if he could get the signature of a doctor that purported to order the tests, Coburns plea agreement said.

Paying a doctor

Waters paid a Lexington doctor, identified only as Dr. O.J. in Coburns plea, $1,000 a month for the use of his signature. Dr. O.J. didnt see the patients, didnt choose which tests would be performed and didnt review the results, according to the court record.

Then, either knowing or being willfully blind to the fact that court-ordered drug testing was not covered by Medicaid and Medicare, Coburn and Baker took part in submitting bills that resulted in more than $1.8 million in improper payments to LabTox between June 2019 and March 2021, his plea deal said.

Coburn received income of at least $1.5 million each year between 2017 and 2021, but held LabTox in someone elses name to conceal his ownership and didnt file federal tax returns, according to his plea agreement.

He also admitted using a LabTox credit card for a substantial amount of personal expenses but deducting them as company expenses.

Coburn agreed to pay restitution totaling nearly $3.6 million to the IRS to cover taxes he didnt pay in tax years 2017 to 2021.

He also agreed to a judgment restitution of more than $1.8 million to the Kentucky Medicaid program and $18,708 to Medicare.

The health fraud charge is punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The top sentence on the tax charge would be five years.

Coburn agreed not to appeal a prison sentence unless it is longer than three years and 10 months.

Chief U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves scheduled Coburn to be sentenced in December.

Court records indicate Baker, who was the director of operations and compliance officer at LabTox, also plans to plead guilty. The charge in her plea is conspiracy to commit health care fraud.

Wastes taxpayer dollars

Her plea agreement, filed in the court record this week, said that at Coburns direction, Baker solicited urine drug samples from non-medical facilities that provide substance abuse recovery.

The programs were typically faith-based or homeless shelters. Many use drug testing for purposes such as making sure participants are complying with rules to remain drug free, or as a condition of living there.

Baker got the facilities to refer urine samples to LabTox by falsely saying the cost would be covered by Medicaid and Medicare under a blanket order signed by a medical provider.

Baker knew or deliberately ignored that the doctors and nurse practitioners who signed the orders  who were not named in the plea document  were not treating the people in the recovery programs for substance abuse or even reviewing the results, according to her plea.

With Coburns agreement and approval, Baker arranged for peer counselors or directors at the recovery programs to get hired as urine collectors for LabTox, and they got paid based on the number of samples submitted.

Coburn and Baker then took part in filing claims with Medicaid and Medicare that brought improper payments totaling at least $937,594 to LabTox between January 2019 and January 2021, according to her plea.

Baker faces up to 10 years on the conspiracy charge.

LabTox agreed in November 2019 to pay the government $2.1 million over improper billing to Medicaid and Medicare between January 2014 and March 2015.

The company did not admit it did anything wrong.

In a separate case, the DOJ announced in May that Blue Waters Assessment and Testing Services and VerraLab JA LLC, a Louisville lab that did business under the name BioTap, agreed to pay the government more than $1.7 million to settle allegations they took part in improperly billing Medicaid and Medicare for urine drug tests that were not medically necessary.

The share of that payment from Blue Waters was $250,000, but that part of the settlement was under the inability-to-pay policy of the DOJ, the agency said.

Submitting false claims to Medicare or Medicaid wastes taxpayer dollars and undermines the integrity of those programs, Tamala E. Miles, special agent in charge at the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, said in a news release at the time.

The companies did not admit liability as part of the settlement.
All Chicago Public Library branches, along with all Evanston Public Libraries, were closed for some time today following an emailed bomb threat to area libraries. The threats were made just two days after another wave of threats targeted multiple libraries across the Chicagoland area.

Chicago Public Library Director of Government & Public Affairs Patrick Molloy said threats were also sent to several Lake County libraries but wasnt able to specify which ones.

We find ourselves in an incredibly unfortunate time where libraries are being threatened for the inclusive role we play, read a Thursday statement from Chicago Public Library. Today, in response to a new threat, we evacuated and temporarily closed all CPL locations out of an abundance of caution. Once we learned that the threats were unfounded, we reopened all libraries where we had the capacity to do so.

These newest threats came after a wave of bomb threats were sent Tuesday to specific Chicago and Chicagoland libraries.

Harold Washington Library and a handful of suburban libraries received bomb threats Tuesday afternoon, requiring police and bomb squads to respond and forcing some institutions to close for the day.

No bombs were found and no one was hurt, according to statements from the Chicago Police Department and the libraries affected.

Chicago Police confirmed an anonymous bomb threat was emailed to an employee at Harold Washington Library around 3:30 p.m. Tuesday. The bomb squad conducted security sweeps of the building and no threat was found. The library remained open and police are continuing to investigate.

According to a news release from the Evanston Police Department, officers responded to a report of a bomb threat at Evanston Public Library along with the Cook County Sheriff Bomb Squad and METRA Police Departments K-9 unit Tuesday afternoon. The threat was emailed to the library and mentioned that other bombs were placed at area libraries.

Both the Evanston Main Library and the Robert Crown Community Center, which houses a branch, were evacuated and officers declared the area all clear around 7 p.m., according to the news release. Both libraries reopened on Wednesday.

Another round of threats came to the Evanston Library on Thursday causing both to be closed around 3:30 p.m. according to tweets from the Evanston Police Department. The main library was cleared around 4:20 p.m. and will remain closed for the rest of the day.

On Tuesday, the Skokie Public Library was informed of the threats made at neighboring Evanston and despite indication from police they were not credible, Skokie Police conducted a full walk-through of the Skokie Library but found nothing of concern, according to Communications and Multimedia Engagement Manager Jane Hanna. The library remained open.

The Addison Public Library closed temporarily Tuesday due to a bomb threat it received over the chat function on its website, according to its Facebook page. The threat was sent around 2 p.m. and Addison Police and the DuPage County Bomb Squad investigated but found no explosives.

In Aurora, the Santori branch of the Aurora Public Library received a threat via electronic means Tuesday and Aurora police evacuated and searched all three of the library districts library buildings but found no dangers. All three reopened later in the afternoon.

Due to the ongoing threats made to area libraries since early August, the Chicago Public Library is planning discussions on how to handle threats of this nature moving forward.

While we closed today (Thursday) out of an abundance of caution, we do not want to embolden these bad actors or make decisions based on unfounded threats and we are going to be developing ongoing plans that also account for the stress and anxiety our workforce is experiencing, read the statement from Chicago Public Library.
By Ahmed Elumami, Ayman al-Warfali and Essam Alfetori

DERNA, Libya (Reuters) - Libyan authorities demanded an investigation on Thursday into whether human failings were to blame for thousands of deaths in the worst natural disaster in the country's modern history, as survivors searched for loved ones washed away by floods.

A torrent unleashed by a powerful storm burst dams on Sunday night and hurtled down a seasonal riverbed that bisects the eastern city of Derna, washing multi-storey buildings into the sea with sleeping families inside.

Confirmed death tolls given by officials have varied. All are in the thousands, with thousands more on lists of the missing. Derna Mayor Abdulmenam al-Ghaithi said deaths in the city could already reach 18,000-20,000, based on the extent of the damage.

He told Reuters he was afraid the city would now be infected with an epidemic, "due to the large number of bodies under the rubble and in the water".

The World Meteorological Organization said the huge loss of life could have been avoided if Libya - a failed state for more than a decade - had a functioning weather agency in place.

"If there would have been a normally operating meteorological service, they could have issued warnings," WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalashe said in Geneva. "The emergency management authorities would have been able to carry out evacuation of the people. And we could have avoided most of the human casualties."

Other commentators drew attention to warnings given in advance, including an academic paper published last year by a hydrologist outlining the city's vulnerability to floods and the urgent need to maintain the dams that protected it.

Mohamed al-Menfi, head of the three-member council that acts as the presidency in Libya's internationally recognised government, said on X that the council had asked the attorney general to investigate the disaster.

Those whose actions or failure to act were responsible for the failure of the dam should be held accountable, along with anyone who held up aid, he said.

Usama Al Husadi, a 52-year-old driver, had been searching for his wife and five children since the disaster.

"I went by foot searching for them ... I went to all hospitals and schools but no luck," he told Reuters, weeping with his head in his hands.

Husadi, who had been working the night of the storm, dialled his wife's phone number once again. It was switched off.

"We lost at least 50 members from my fathers family, between missing and dead," he said.

Wali Eddin Mohamed Adam, 24, a Sudanese brick factory worker living on Derna's outskirts, had awakened to the boom of the water on the night of the storm and rushed to the city centre to find it was gone. Nine of his fellow workers were lost, and around 15 others had lost their families, he said.

"All were swept away by the valley into the sea," he said. "May God have mercy upon them and grant them heaven."

INTERNATIONAL AID

Rescue teams arrived from Egypt, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey and Qatar. Among countries sending aid, Turkey sent a ship carrying equipment to set up two field hospitals. Italy sent three planes of supplies and personnel, as well as two navy ships that had difficulty offloading because Derna's debris-choked port was almost unusable.

The World Health Organization (WHO) said it would release $2 million from its emergency fund to support the victims, calling the floods a "calamity of epic proportions". It added it would send trauma, surgical and emergency supplies from its logistics hub in Dubai.

Rescue work is hindered by the political fractures in a country of 7 million people, at war on-and-off and with no government holding nationwide reach since a NATO-backed uprising toppled Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

An internationally recognised Government of National Unity (GNU) is based in Tripoli, in the west. A parallel administration operates in the east, under control of the Libyan National Army of Khalifa Haftar, who failed to capture Tripoli in a bloody 14-month siege that unravelled in 2020.

Derna has been particularly chaotic, run by a succession of armed Islamist groups, including at one point Islamic State, before being uneasily brought under Haftar's control.

A delegation of GNU ministers were expected in Benghazi in the east on Thursday to show solidarity and discuss relief efforts, a rare occurrence since the eastern-based parliament rejected their administration last year.

Viewed from high points above Derna, the once densely populated city centre was now a wide, flat crescent of earth with stretches of mud. Nothing but rubble and a washed out road were left on Thursday at the site of the dam that had once protected the city. The desert riverbed, or wadi, had already subsided back to a trickle.

Below, the beach was littered with clothes, toys, furniture, shoes and other possessions swept out of homes by the torrent. Streets were covered in deep mud and strewn with uprooted trees and hundreds of wrecked cars, many flipped on their sides or roofs. One car was wedged on a gutted building's second-floor balcony.

"I survived with my wife but I lost my sister," said Mohamed Mohsen Bujmila, a 41-year-old engineer. "My sister lives downtown where most of the destruction happened. We found the bodies of her husband and son and buried them."

He also found the bodies of two strangers in his apartment.

As he spoke an Egyptian search-and-rescue team nearby recovered the body of his neighbour.

"This is Aunt Khadija, may God grant her heaven," Bujmila said.

(Writing by Peter Graff, Alexandra Hudson; Editing by Angus MacSwan and Andrew Heavens)
Traditional supermarkets raced to match the discounters' prices amid the cost of living crisis - Rui Vieira/PA

Lidl has said it will do whatever it takes to beat rivals on price, as the discounter swung to a 76m loss amid a mounting price war between the UKs biggest grocers.

The German retailer posted a 19pc rise in its UK sales to 9.3bn over the year to March, but it swung to a 76m loss after making a 41.1m profit a year earlier.

Ryan McDonnell, Lidls UK chief executive, blamed the losses on a combination of soaring costs and investment in its store expansion. It has also been spending more on cutting prices and staff pay rises.

Whatever it takes

Lidl has more than 960 stores across the UK, employing more than 31,000 people. It opened almost 50 new stores over its 2022 financial year and has opened a further 20 over this year so far.

Traditional supermarkets, such as Tesco, Waitrose and Sainsburys, have been fighting back against the rise of Lidl and Aldi by cutting prices on hundreds of products in recent months.

Mr McDonnell said: Whatever it takes to maintain that position obviously its important for us to drive that price leadership.

Both Lidl and Aldi have significantly grown their share of the grocery market in recent years, with Aldi overtaking Morrisons to become the UKs fourth largest supermarket last September.

With shoppers seeking out bargains during the cost of living crisis, traditional supermarkets raced to match the German retailers prices.

However, there are signs that the discounters march may be slowing.

In the 12 weeks to September 3, Lidl and Aldi both lost market share for the first time in months, according to Kantar figures.

We dont really see a limit

But Mr McDonnell maintained there was still room for Lidl to grow further.

He added: I would say we would absolutely not have reached the peak in market share development among discounters.

We would be very positive and very encouraged by the momentum weve developed and were experiencing at the moment.

Lidl opened a new 300m distribution centre in Luton, its largest warehouse in the world, earlier this month. Mr McDonnell said there was scope to open hundreds more stores across the UK.

He said: That is a real symbol of intent as to what we expect from our expansion plans. We dont really see a limit.

Mr McDonnell added that Lidl would look at stores owned by collapsed retailer Wilko in the wake of its administration and consider offering opportunities to Wilkos staff.

He said: Our property teams are obviously engaged and very, very well aware of that situation. Were always open for recruitment, and thats an opportunity for Wilko colleagues or ex-Wilko colleagues as well.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has said that he hopes Ukraine will receive a green light for NATO membership by the time of the alliances next summit in Washington D.C. in 2024, Lithuanian news outlet LRT reported on Sep 14.

Read also: NATO drops MAP requirement for Ukraine, introduces conditions for entry

"Now we have to make every effort, and I really hope for the cooperation of Poland, so that at the Washington summit we can help take another step forward and give the green light to Ukraine's membership in NATO," Nauseda said while speaking at the Krynica Forum on Security and Economy Forum, held in the eponymous town in Poland

Read also: Lithuania to provide $27 million in military aid to Ukraine

The NATO summit held last July in Vilnius created an algorithm for Ukraine's future accession to the alliance, Nauseda said.

The prospect of Ukraines admission to NATO, based solely on the decisions made by Ukraine and member states, is absolutely realistic, responded Polish President Andrzej Duda, who was also in attendance, adding that he would raise the issue at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session in New York on Sept. 18-26.

The most recent NATO summit was held in Vilnius, Lithuania on July 11-12, attended by the leaders of 31 member states, including US President Joe Biden, as well as delegations from Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia, Ukraine, and Sweden. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attended the summit as well.

Read also: Ukraine would make NATO stronger  Zelenskyy in Vilnius

NATO member states have settled on a unified communique concerning Ukraines membership in the Alliance, making no timeframe commitments as to when Kyiv might receive the invitation. The document was published on July 11, as the summit opens.

The communique noted that Ukraine would be invited to join the Alliance once member states agree and all prerequisites have been satisfied, without specifying what those prerequisites are, exactly.

The document underscored NATO's adherence to the commitment made in 2008 that Ukraine will become a NATO member. It also acknowledged that Ukraine's journey towards complete Euro-Atlantic integration no longer necessitates a Membership Action Plan (MAP), effectively signaling that Kyiv will be able to apply for membership via a fast-track procedure.

Read also: Agreeing to peace with Putin is impossible, says Johnson in pointed speech at YES forum

On July 12, Zelenskyy said he was convinced that Ukraine would receive an invitation to join NATO after the war.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Senate President Chris Kapena, R-Delafield, right, speaks with state Sen. Patrick Testin R-Stevens Point during debate about taking a step toward firing Wisconsin Elections Commission administrator Meagan Wolfe on Sept. 14, 2023 at the Capitol in Madison, Wis. (Mark Hoffman/AP)

The Republican-controlled Wisconsin Senate voted Thursday to fire the battleground states nonpartisan top elections official, prompting a legal challenge from Democrats who say the vote was illegitimate.

Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul said in a lawsuit that Senate Republicans dont have the authority to oust Wisconsin Elections Commission Administrator Meagan Wolfe and accused them of attacking the states elections.

Advertisement

Its the latest in a whirlwind of deep partisan divisions in Wisconsin, where Republicans who control the Legislature are threatening to impeach a newly elected Supreme Court justice before shes even heard a case. Theyre also floating plans to overhaul the states electoral maps before the high court can toss out current boundaries that favor the GOP.

The fight over who will lead the elections agency stems from persistent lies about the 2020 election and creates instability ahead of the 2024 presidential race for the states more than 1,800 local clerks who actually run elections.

Advertisement

Wolfe has been the subject of conspiracy theories and target for threats from election skeptics who falsely claim she was part of a plan to rig the 2020 vote in Wisconsin, and GOP leaders cited concerns from those skeptics in justifying Thursdays 22-11 vote along party lines.

She said Thursday she will not bend to political pressure and will continue to serve as administrator at least through the end of the 2024 election unless a court rules otherwise or the elections commission votes to remove her.

The Senates vote today to remove me is not a referendum on the job I do but rather a reaction to not achieving the political outcome they desire, Wolfe said. The political outcome they desired is to have someone in this position of their own choosing that would bend to those political pressures.

Wisconsinites have expressed concerns with the administration of elections both here in Wisconsin and nationally, said Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu. We need to rebuild faith in Wisconsins elections.

But numerous reviews have found that the 2020 election in Wisconsin was fair and the results were accurate. Biden defeated Trump in 2020 by nearly 21,000 votes in Wisconsin, an outcome that has withstood two partial recounts, a nonpartisan audit, a conservative law firms review, and multiple state and federal lawsuits.

Election observers have voiced concerns that replacing Wolfe with a less experienced administrator or continuing to dispute her position ahead of the 2024 contest could create greater instability in a high-stakes presidential race where election workers expect to face unrelenting pressure, harassment and threats.

Wisconsin Republicans attempt to illegally fire Wisconsins elections administrator without cause today shows they are continuing to escalate efforts to sow distrust and disinformation about our elections, denigrate our clerks, poll workers, and election administrators, and undermine basic tenets of our democracy, including the peaceful transfer of power, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers said in a statement.

At Evers request, Kaul sued GOP legislative leaders and asked a judge to rule that the Senates vote has no legal effect and that Wolfe will remain in charge of the elections commission. Meanwhile, Republicans introduced a resolution calling on the elections commission to appoint an interim administrator to replace her.

Advertisement

The state Senate has blatantly ignored Wisconsin law in order to put its stamp of approval on baseless attacks against elections, Kaul said. (Wolfe) remains the administrator. The court, Im very confident, will confirm that.

The bipartisan elections commission deadlocked in June on a vote to nominate Wolfe for a second four-year term. Three Republicans voted to nominate her and three Democrats abstained in the hopes of preventing a nomination from proceeding to the Senate for confirmation.

Senate rejection would normally carry the effect of firing her, but without a four-vote majority nominating Wolfe, a recent state Supreme Court ruling appears to allow her to stay in office indefinitely as a holdover.

Senate Republicans in June pushed ahead with forcing a vote despite not receiving a nomination from the commission. LeMahieu said he interpreted the commissions 3-0 vote as a unanimous nomination. The Legislatures nonpartisan attorneys and Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul have both contested that interpretation, saying the law is clear that an elections administrator must be nominated by at least four commissioners.

Wolfe did not attend a Senate committee hearing on her reappointment last month, citing a letter from Kaul saying there is no question that she remains head of the elections agency. That hearing instead became a platform for some of the most prominent members of Wisconsins election denialism movement to repeat widely debunked claims about the 2020 election.

Its hard to believe were still at a place where those now very well analyzed and debunked claims about our system seem to still be driving decisions, Wolfe said Thursday.

Advertisement

Many of the same skeptics were present in the Senate gallery on Thursday, cheering when the vote passed.

Many Republican grievances against Wolfe are over decisions made by the elections commission and carried out by Wolfe, as she is bound by law to do. In addition to carrying out the decisions of the elections commission, Wolfe helps guide Wisconsins more than 1,800 local clerks who actually run elections.

Wolfe became head of the elections commission in 2018, after Senate Republicans rejected her predecessor, Michael Haas, because he had worked for the Government Accountability Board. GOP lawmakers disbanded the agency, which was the elections commissions predecessor, in 2015 after it investigated whether former Republican Gov. Scott Walkers campaign illegally worked with outside groups.

Since the 2020 election, some Republicans have floated the idea of abolishing or overhauling the elections commission.

Wolfe has worked at the elections commission and the accountability board for more than 10 years. She has also served as president of the National Association of State Election Directors and chair of the bipartisan Electronic Registration Information Center, or ERIC, which helps states maintain accurate voter rolls.
Capt. James Hilles of the Alliance Police Department shows the Live911 program on his office computer. The computers in the police cruiser show the same information.

ALLIANCE  Police said they saved a woman's life because a new tool sped up their response to a 911 call.

Capt. James Hilles and Law Director Caitlyn Weyer said the 68-year-old girlfriend of George "Joe" Appleby might not be alive today if not for Live911.

"That Live911 was truly a godsend," Weyer said.

"I said I ...": Alliance police release body camera footage, ID officers involved in fatal shooting

Live911 is a dispatching software that streams 911 calls into police cruisers, giving officers more information and faster response times. California-based HigherGround is behind the program that has more than 100 clients nationwide.

Currently, Alliance and Strongsville are the only Ohio cities that use the technology, according to a HigherGround spokesman. It's been positive in the Carnation City.

"We have solved a dozen cases that we would not have (without it)," Hilles said. "Like apprehending a domestic violence offender, who normally would have fled. Or hit-skips."

How does it work?

The city pays $8,700 annually for the program for the city's Police and Fire Departments. In an email, Auditor Kevin Knowles said federal stimulus money was used to buy the software and have it installed.

Live911 went online in October 2022 in Alliance. Hilles explained how it works:

He said when a person calls 911 with an emergency, the call streams into the police station and police cruisers. The officers listen as dispatchers gather information from the caller. It gives officers a head start on their response.

In October 2022, Alliance Police Department became only the second department in Ohio to install Live911 software in their computer and cruiser systems. The officers hear 911 calls in real-time and get a mapping display of which officer is closest to the emergency.

Hilles also said the software maps the location of the call onto officers' computer screens in cruisers based on a GPS locator, helping to alert the closest officer.

"It's showing exactly where the caller is at, and if they move, it'll follow them," he added.

Hilles said the system has cut down police response time to emergency calls by two to three minutes.

Before Live911, Hilles explained officers wouldn't know there was an emergency until a dispatcher alerted them, and they might be out of position. Now, officers know it, hear it and already have information from the caller before they arrive on scene.

For the Fire Department, Live911 streams into the fire stations. Fire Chief Jason Hunt said it has been a great addition.

Hilles said police officers get to hear the caller's sense of urgency  something that was missing in the pre-Live911 days.

"You know what you're going into. You don't have to get there and say, 'OK, well, I know what dispatch told me, but now I've got to find out the story,'" Hilles said. With Live911, "the officer has actually had contact and gotten the story. Now they can just go ... and be prepared to act."

He added: "Like they did (Sept. 3)."

The first officer got to South Linden in 1 minute, 18 seconds

On Sept. 3, a neighbor told 911 dispatchers that a man had a knife across the throat of his live-in girlfriend in an South Linden Avenue apartment.

"Please hurry," she told 911 dispatch.

On Sept. 3, 2023, an Alliance police officer shot and killed George "Joe" Appleby in this upstairs apartment on South Linden Avenue. Police said Appleby had a knife across the throat of a woman, partially cutting her, and used her as a shield. The fatal shooting is be investigated by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation.

Listening on the other end were Alliance police officers in their cruisers, on the way to the call, and hearing the neighbor's concern. The call also provided the name of the suspect, George Appleby, whom Hilles said was known to Alliance police as a violent man capable of acting on his threats.

The first officer arrived on scene one minute, 18 seconds after the call. Four more then followed.

Police have said Appleby had a knife across the throat of his girlfriend, refused to drop it, and used her as a shield.

An officer  detective Robert Toussant  fired on Appleby as he held the knife to the victim's throat after another officer pried open the door to the apartment.

The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is investigating the incident. Toussant and the other four officers who were on the scene at the time remain on paid leave.

"No officers were injured. No additional information is available at this time as this is an ongoing investigation," Dominic Brinkley, deputy press secretary for the Ohio Attorney General's Office, said in an email.

Meanwhile, Weyer and Hilles said Live911 helped officers save the woman's life. They said she or a neighbor could have died if they had responded later.

"I mean, by then, who knows," Hilles said. "Two or three minutes goes and maybe one of the neighbors intervenes and they get hurt, too. I mean he could've killed her and fled. But he didn't get time to because the officer was fairly close and the call came in."

Reach Benjamin Duer at 330-580-8567 or ben.duer@cantonrep.com. On X (formerly Twitter): @bduerREP

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Live911 is helping Alliance police, fire get to emergencies quicker
Yahaira Moore was divorced with an infant, living at a domestic violence shelter.

While living at the shelter she started pursuing a career in tech.

On my first day at my internship, I went and bought myself a $20 lobster roll.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Yahaira Moore. It has been edited for length and clarity.

Twelve years ago, I had six weeks to figure out my entire life. I'd just come to a domestic violence shelter with my son and was still navigating a messy divorce from his father. I had to drop out of college, and I was focused on survival.

We could stay in the shelter for only six weeks. I was determined to make the most of that time. The shelter staff encouraged me to get a job  any job. But I knew I wanted to start establishing a career. I grew up in poverty with an immigrant father and mother who did everything she could to keep food on the table. I didn't want my son to see the things that I had seen growing up in a depressed neighborhood in New York City.

Being in the shelter with my infant was rock bottom. I knew I couldn't go any lower than that, and in a way, knowing that was freeing. I decided I would try to use this time to improve my life and my son's.

I was accepted into a program that would help me work in technology

Luckily, the shelter director recognized what I was trying to do. One day, she handed me a flyer for NPower , a nonprofit that provides digital career training to veterans and people from underserved communities.

I always had an interest in tech, and this seemed like a fantastic opportunity. I applied and was asked to come in for an interview. I had no clothes to wear to a professional interview, so the shelter director connected me with another nonprofit that gave me business attire.

When I was accepted to NPower, I was overwhelmed. I had said that I would only go up from the shelter, but now I had to put in the hard work to make that happen.

I knew struggling short term would help me long-term

My mantra became, "struggle now so that you won't struggle later." I secured housing in a longer-term shelter where my son and I could live for two years. Once I knew we had a place to sleep safely, I could focus on establishing our new life.

While I was thinking about the long term, I had immediate obligations from the shelter. I had to complete job readiness, and my training with NPower didn't count. Instead, my caseworker recommended a program where I would pick up trash in New York City parks. I explained to her that I was trying to get into technology  weren't there any opportunities that could support that? She said she didn't know because I was the first person who ever asked her.

A few days later, she told me that she found me a job readiness program where I could work in IT support. I had no experience with that, but I was determined to make it work. In the mornings, I would ask my instructor at Npower questions like "How do you reset a printer?" In the afternoons, I'd use that new-found knowledge in my IT job. I crisscrossed the city, getting my son to day care, doing classes at Npower, going to my job, and picking up my son in time to make curfew at the shelter.

I had a full-circle moment, eating a lobster roll for lunch

Lots of Fortune 500 executives came to speak with us at Npower, and they always shared their business cards. I got in touch with each and every one of them, arranging a phone call or coffee meeting. At first, I didn't tell anyone my story, but I slowly opened up. One day, I asked a mentor, "Do you really think I can do it?" He laughed, then got very serious and said, "Yahaira, I'm 100% sure you can out-succeed me." I had to rush off the phone because I was crying. He gave me validation that my current situation wasn't a reflection of my abilities or odds of success.

After NPower, I was supposed to complete an internship, but Hurricane Sandy destroyed my internship site. I spoke about that, as well as my many other challenges during the program, at my graduation. An executive from a major company stood up and offered me an internship right there.

The internship was at the World Financial Center in Lower Manhattan. I was shocked. Before my divorce, I'd been working at a food cart, selling $20 lobster rolls. I would spend my days wishing I could afford a $20 lunch and thinking about how to get to that point. It was a full-circle moment. On my first day, I went out and bought a lobster roll for lunch.

Today, my son and I live in a beautiful sky-rise apartment. We're financially secure, which means I'm free from the mental anguish and worry that impacts so many Black families struggling financially  including the one I grew up in. It took a lot of therapy to make the mental switch from survival to enjoyment mode, but now I'm finally able to enjoy the life I've built.

Read the original article on Insider
Joe and Carrie Scarborough are seen prior to opening Pizza + Buffet in this 2021 file photo.

In an unexpected turn of events, Joe and Carie Scarborough closed all locations of Pizza + Buffet on Sept. 11.

On Dec. 29, 2021, the Scarboroughs opened Pizza + Buffet at 3746 E. Franklin Blvd. in Gastonia.

Within months, the business was doing so well that the Mount Holly couple decided to expand and have established two additional locations.

In an interview about the expansion last year, Joe Scarborough said the business had sold 4,000 pizzas in less than two months.

According to Joe Scarborough, the Gastonia location of the buffet was bringing in $1.3 million a year, on average.

For their first time owning a business in the restaurant industry, it was exceeding expectations.

The couple broke into the pizza business after the decline of CiCis Pizza.

CiCis went bankrupt and shuttered buildings across the country just a few years ago including the spot in Gastonia, Scarborough said.

The set up of these former CiCis establishments offered an easy move-in for Pizza + Buffet, and the Scarboroughs took over one in Gastonia, one in Albemarle, North Carolina, and another in Canton, Ohio.

This year, however, CiCis Pizza came under new management, and they are looking to make a comeback, Scarborough said.

The Scarboroughs will be retiring after selling all three locations back to CiCis Pizza.

They made us an offer we couldnt refuse, so were walking away, Scarborough said. I cant tell you exactly, but its in the high-end six figures.

According to Scarborough, CiCis will re-open the Gastonia location after a small period of training for the Pizza + Buffet employees who will stay on as CiCis takes over, and interior updates to reintroduce CiCis branding in the building.

CiCis is anticipating that they will be able to reopen the restaurant after roughly a week of making these changes, Scarborough said.

According to Joe Scarborough, he and Carie do not have any current plans for their retirement.

Were going to miss all our customers there, he said. Weve had lots and lots of great customers.

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Locally owned pizza buffets to close, reopen under new ownership
After nearly 20 years, one of Raleighs most popular French restaurants has closed.

This summer, the Raleigh restaurant Saint Jacques quietly closed its doors in the North Ridge Shopping Center. Since 2004, Saint Jacques epitomized strip mall fine dining, offering gourmet refuge within the busy North Raleigh development.

According to Saint Jacques online reservation service, the restaurant closed in July.

From Saturday, July 8th 2023, the Saint Jacques French Cuisine is permanently closed, thank you for your support in the past, reads an online message on the restaurants OpenTable page.

Saint Jacques was opened in 2004 by married couple Lori and Lil Lacassagne, standing out in the days Raleigh dining scene as some of the most exquisite plates of its era. Former News & Observer dining critic Greg Cox once awarded the restaurant a nearly perfect four and a half stars in a review, praising the restaurants Old World charm and exacting traditional dishes made without pretension.

Over the next decade Saint Jacques continued to impress, making regulars of its dining room and remaining in Coxs roundup of the Triangles best restaurants, earning silver star status, given to the critics top picks in the region.

In 2011 the Lacassagnes purchased the former North Carolina Inn in Gibsonville and rebranded it as the Burke Manor Inn. They transformed the inns dining offerings and built a version of Saint Jacques there.

Later the couple sold Saint Jacques in Raleigh to focus on the inn full time. Since 2015, Saint Jacques owner has been restaurateur and bar owner Ashlie Cade, whose other ventures include The Bison bar and the now closed Blowfish bar on Glenwood Ave.

Cade could not be reached to comment on the Saint Jacques closing. A peek in the restaurants windows shows the dining room still full with tables and chairs, but flowers in a vase have dried and dropped their petals.
After approval from the federal government earlier this week, new COVID-19 vaccines designed to tackle the latest, most dominant variants of the virus will soon be available.

The new booster shots from Pfizer and Moderna come at a time when immunity to the virus is waning and hospitalizations are climbing. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone ages six months and older to get it. But where can you find an appointment and how do you get one?

Heres what we know about the vaccines availability at Lexington pharmacies and health care providers.

Walgreens and CVS

Both Walgreens and CVS announced Wednesday they would begin making the new vaccine available at their pharmacies.

Walgreens said individuals can immediately schedule appointments, with available appointments starting Monday nationwide. Earlier appointments may also be available as Walgreens stores begin to receive the vaccines this week. You can schedule an appointment at Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine, by calling 1-800-925-4733 or using the Walgreens app.

CVS also announced it expects to receive doses of the new vaccine Wednesday.

Pharmacies will begin receiving the new vaccine today and will continue to receive inventory on a rolling basis throughout the week, the company stated. All CVS Pharmacy locations are expected to have the vaccination in stock by early next week.

Individuals can schedule appointments online at CVS.com or via the CVS Pharmacy app.

Today, we took action approving & authorizing for emergency use updated COVID-19 vaccines formulated to more closely target currently circulating variants & to provide better protection against serious consequences of COVID. Heres what you need to know: https://t.co/A7JIDLBZNG pic.twitter.com/q1M0NerFUS  U.S. FDA (@US_FDA) September 11, 2023

UK HealthCare

According to UK HealthCare spokesperson Hillary Smith, the health care provider is anticipating it will be able to offer the updated COVID vaccines by the end of this month or in early October.

UK HealthCares retail pharmacies are offering standard seasonal flu vaccinations with the added option of receiving the new COVID-19 vaccine during the same visit once it becomes available, according to information provided by Smith.

With that in mind, you may want to wait a week or two before scheduling your flu shot appointment so you can take advantage of the updated COVID-19 vaccine during the same visit. Before showing up to your flu shot appointment, you should call ahead to confirm coronavirus vaccine availability during your pharmacy visit.

Individuals with questions about vaccinations or those interested in making an appointment at one of UKs retail pharmacies should call 859-562-2018 or visit ukpharmacy.org to view pharmacy locations and hours. You can also book an appointment online through MyChart by selecting pharmacy and then a time and location that works best for you.

Lexington-Fayette County Health Department

Lexington-Fayette County Health Department spokesperson Victoria Rusk said the agency plans to offer the vaccines by the end of the month and is unsure whether they will be made available sooner.

Rusk added the vaccine will be provided at no cost to eligible individuals.

LFCHD will provide COVID vaccines for free to those who qualify for the Kentucky Vaccine Program  those who are uninsured and children with Medicaid, Rusk said.

We will only provide COVID vaccines to those who meet the mentioned criteria, Rusk added.

Those who qualify for the Kentucky Vaccine Program can make same-day appointments at the LFCHD by calling 859-288-2483. However, its worth noting appointments will not be available until the department has the updated vaccine. Exact appointment dates are undetermined at this time, Rusk told the Herald-Leader.

Do you have a question about health in Kentucky for our service journalism team? Wed like to hear from you. Fill out our Know Your Kentucky form or email ask@herald-leader.com.
COSHOCTON  The workforce story in Coshocton has remained constant since the COVID-19 pandemic ended  there are plenty of jobs available, but not enough people to fill them. But, even with that, landing a job isn't automatic or easy.

Ohio Means Jobs of Coshocton County recently held its annual employment expo with more than 45 local employers in attendance. Some jobseekers got hired on the spot.

The local OMJ went from having about 1,500 jobseekers a month six to seven years ago to 200 to 300 a month today. An analysis shows locally there are 62 workers available for every 100 jobs.

Whether its a job fair, formal job interview or just seeing if a company is hiring there are dos and don'ts to presenting yourself and your resume. Administrator Lynn Jacobs and Business Coordinator Shanna Stanton of Ohio Means Jobs of Coshocton County shared some tips that can help you to land a job.

Chris Covic of Covic Connection talks with attendee of the Ohio Means Jobs of Coshocton County annual employment expo at the Lake Park Pavilion.

Resumes should be short and direct

The local OMJ office offers resume assistance. Stanton said if a resume is too long or not formatted right, some employers won't even bother. About 90% of the resumes she sees have some glaring errors.

A lot of the time the resume isn't updated or the template is old fashioned. Resumes should also be only one page, plus a cover letter. Don't go over everything, stick to the last 10 to 15 years of work history. A professional summary is fine, but listing career objectives is a thing of the past.

"If an employer does a quick scan of maybe 10 seconds looking for that eye-catching resume, if you have three to four pages, automatically you're going to get tossed to the side," Stanton said. "Everyone can always do a little tweaking."

Det. Nancy Wilt talks to attendee of an employment expo by Ohio Means Jobs of Coshocton County at the Lake Park Pavilion.

Be firm on what you want

Fair pay for fair work used to be the top priority. Now, it's more time off to spend with family, firm hours with no swing shifts and mental health care as part of the benefits. Jacobs believes that all comes from the pandemic. He said more businesses are picking up on that and offering more in those areas.

"If they do not like something, they're not going to be loyal and stay around like the Boomers would back in the day, even if the wage is there," Stanton said of the younger generations. "If it's not something that makes them happy or fulfills them, that's something huge we hear. They're going to move on and not take a second more to think about it."

However, even with that, people have to be fair to the employer. Jacobs recently heard of a new employee at a local company who took a random Wednesday off to take his family to the beach. He didn't care if he was paid or not. But, the point was the employer had to cover the shift at time and a half without much warning.

More than 45 local employers met with potential job candidates at a recent employment expo held by Ohio Means Jobs of Coshocton County at the Lake Park Pavilion.

Longevity is sought

Jacobs said when he first entered the workforce people got a job somewhere with the intentions of slowly moving up the ladder to earn pay raises and promotions and eventually retiring after 30 or more years with one company.

These days, Jacobs said the plan is to find that next better paying job with better benefits and move on within a couple years. That's good for the employee, but not the employer who has to fill your position.

He said potential employers like to see that you've been at one business at least five years. If you've had three or four different jobs in just a few years, be ready to explain why you moved on.

Always be honest

If you lie to a potential employer, they'll find out and it won't be good. That could be why you've had several jobs in the past few years or why there is a gap in your employment, even if it was because of prison time.

Jacobs said with the amount of jobs open, businesses will hire convicted felons more often than in the past. However, they still have to be comfortable with the person and where they're at now.

"The best thing is to be honest. Just say, 'you know what, there was a time in my life where I did something stupid and I paid for it. I figured it out. I'm working to support my family. That's all behind me. I'm ready to go to work and I'm doing things right now,'" Jacobs said.

Remember the little things

Jacobs said they talk about red flags and green flags when it comes to job candidates. You want the positive to outweigh the negative. He's surprised by how many candidates go to a job fair or a formal interview and aren't groomed or appropriately dressed.

Jacobs said they usually recommend taking out facial piercings and being clean shaven or trimmed to make a good visual impression.

Also, make sure to shake the interviewer's hand and look them in the eye. Have basically a 30-second commercial planned in your head on who you are and what you're looking for in a job. OMJ offers an interview workshop to work on answering potential questions and knowing what to say.

Overall, Jacobs said the key to landing a job is "to give yourself every benefit as you're going in there. Every tiny little thing."

Leonard Hayhurst is a community content coordinator and general news reporter for the Coshocton Tribune with more than 15 years of local journalism experience and multiple awards from the Ohio Associated Press. He can be reached at 740-295-3417 or llhayhur@coshoctontribune.com. Follow him on Twitter at @llhayhurst.

This article originally appeared on Coshocton Tribune: Resume and interview tips for jobseekers from Ohio Means Jobs
FILE - Flood waters surround storm damaged homes on Aug. 31, 2021, in Lafourche Parish, La., as residents try to recover from the effects of Hurricane Ida. Attorneys for 10 states and numerous Louisiana local governments are hoping a federal judge will block a new system for calculating rates for federal flood insurance. Arguments were being heard Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023 in New Orleans federal court over rates that the government began phasing in in 2021. (AP Photo/Steve Helber) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

NEW ORLEANS (AP)  Increases in federal flood insurance premiums that are projected to surpass 700% over the coming years are already leading people to back out of home purchases and will likely lead to an exodus of residents and businesses from southern Louisiana, officials told a federal judge Thursday in New Orleans.

The testimony came in a hearing in a lawsuit Louisiana and nine other states filed against the federal government to block sharp increases in national flood insurance rates. A phase-in of the new rates began in 2021. Annual increases are limited to 18%. The Federal Emergency Management Agency said the new method of computing rates has resulted in reductions or little or no increase for most policy holders.

But FEMA figures also show huge impending increases in some Louisiana ZIP codes. State and local officials who testified Thursday said the increases are expected to result in some people in working-class southern Louisiana to abandon their mortgages, try to sell homes that have been in families for generations, or drop their insurance.

We've already seen a slowdown in new building, said Matt Jewell, president of St. Charles Parish, west of New Orleans.

The implications go beyond blows to the real estate market and tax revenue. Officials said lower revenue could also hamper flood prevention and mitigation efforts. And some federal disaster programs require people in certain areas to have flood insurance  which the officials argued is becoming unaffordable.

State attorneys said during arguments before U.S. District Judge Darrel Papillion that participation in the National Flood Insurance Program requires that local governments adopt building-elevation policies and flood-control efforts that often require taxes  approved by voters believing the mitigation efforts will hold rates down.

They turned us into liars, state Solicitor General Liz Murrill told Papillion.

Papillion was hearing arguments on the federal government's motion to dismiss the suit and on the states' motion for an injunction blocking the rate increases pending further court proceedings. It was unclear if he would rule Thursday.

Florida, Idaho, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, North Dakota, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia are the other states listed as plaintiffs, along with some local governments and flood control bodies in Louisiana.

FEMA has said its new premium system is an improvement over past methods, incorporating data that wasnt used in the past, including scientific models and costs involved in rebuilding a home. The agency has said the old method could result in people with lower-valued homes paying more than a fair share, while those with higher-value homes pay relatively less.

A return to the old system of calculating premiums would not guarantee a reduction of rates, Justice Department attorney Yoseph Desta argued.

He and other government attorneys argued Thursday that the new rate plan had been in the works for years, that the states had plenty of opportunity for input, and that the lawsuit, filed months after the phase-in began, was filed too late. They also argued the states have no standing to sue over the rates set by the National Flood Insurance Program.
Louisiana's Republican Party has endorsed John Raymond, who is charged with four counts of criminal cruelty to juveniles, in his bid to win a state House seat in St. Tammany Parish.

Raymond, lead minister of New Horizon Church in Slidell and founder of Lakeside Christian Academy, was arrested twice in 2022 on juvenile cruelty charges related to discipline he is accused of carrying out in his role as headmaster at the school.

In a May 2023 interview with USA Today Network, Raymond said he is "completely innocent" of the charges and has been on voluntary leave of absence from the school since his arrests.

Raymond, who is also an elected member of the Louisiana Republican Party's state central committee, hasn't returned a call and text from USA Today Network for this story. The case is pending in state court.

Louisiana Republican Party Chairman Louis Gurvich confirmed in a text that the executive committee endorsed Raymond.

Raymond's opponent in the race for the House District 104 seat, fellow Republican Jay Galle' of Mandeville, said he was shocked by the endorsement.

"As a lifelong Republican it's an embarrassment," said Galle' while acknowledging Raymond's right to the presumption of innocence.

"(The party) puts itself out there as a protector of children," said Galle', a former marine and businessman who now manages his family's real estate portfolio. "I can't express how disappointed I am that the Louisiana Republican Party has chosen to endorse a candidate with not one, not two, not three, but four criminal charges of cruelty to children."

Raymond is accused of holding a 4-year-old boy upside down by his ankles and "whipping his buttocks" and taping three 13-year-old boys' mouths shut with packing tape for talking too much in class.

He is also accused of covering the 4-year-old's mouth and nose with his hand to stop the child's "tantrum" in a separate incident. In a news release, police said witnesses reported Raymond's actions prevented the child from breathing "to the point of him going limp." The witness, a staff member, said the child was "out of it and lethargic" and "unable to stand."

The children whose mouths were taped said they had trouble breathing and suffered pain when the tape was removed.

In the May interview, Raymond said the accusations of his actions against the 4-year-old "are preposterous." Raymond acknowledged that he taped the three 13-year-olds mouths shut after giving them a choice of that punishment or calling their parents, "but tape isn't a crime."

"I'm completely innocent of these charges and confident I'll be fully exonerated in a fair judicial process," he said. "I love children, and that's why I started the school. I never hurt a child and look forward to putting these false charges behind me."

Raymond said the charges stem from "disgruntled ex-employees with an axe to grind."

Raymond also owns and operates The Bridge 88.7-FM Christian radio station.

The Rev. John Raymond, who is charged with four counts of criminal juvenile cruelty, is running for the Louisiana House of Representatives. He is shown here testifying before the House Education Committee on May 23, 2023.

He is a familiar figure in the Capitol who testified in multiple hearings last spring supporting bills like requiring schools to post "In God We Trust" in classrooms, officially allowing historical Bible courses to be taught in public schools and in favor of LGBTQ restrictions. Among his written campaign promises: "Reject the woke trans-agenda."

Raymond in May said he is confident the charges against him won't impact his campaign.

"I trust the people of St. Tammany to recognize the 23 years I've served the community," he said.

Raymond is vice-chair of credentials committee of the Louisiana Republican Party State Central Committee and a member of the St. Tammany Republican Parish Executive Committee.

Incumbent House District 104 Rep. Paul Hollis was term limited and couldn't run again, leaving the seat open.

Raymond had previously run unsuccessfully for the District 90 seat held by Republican Rep. Mary DuBuisson.

More: Louisiana GOP official, pastor charged with juvenile cruelty running for state House seat

Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. Follow him on Twitter @GregHilburn1.

This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Louisiana GOP endorses candidate charged with cruelty to children
SAN DIEGO  Traveling to Germany from San Diego will soon be easier.

Lufthansa Airlines is expanding flight service from San Diego International Airport (SAN) to Franz Josef Strauss International Airport (MUC) in Munich, Germany by a whopping 70% next spring.

Lufthansa currently serves SAN-MUC three times a week, however, it will expand to five days per week starting April 2024. Come June 2024, the airlines will transition further to daily service.

Peso Pluma receives death threats ahead of Tijuana concert, officials say

Munich has been one of the most popular international destinations for travelers, said Kimberly Becker, San Diego County Regional Airport Authority President and CEO. Seeing Lufthansa expand its service frequency to daily flights next year will provide even more opportunities for leisure and business travel and will support continued economic growth in both regions.

Lufthansa previously offered nonstop flights to Frankfurt, Germany, but that service was suspended in March 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Since then, officials at SAN say the airport has had a strong recovery.

The City of San Diego is proposing changes that will affect your water bill

In fact, SAN says the number of San DiegoEurope passengers is now 12% higher than in 2019. The additional Lufthansa Airlines flights to Munich are aimed to help address the increased demand from the San Diego region.

San Diego has flourished into one of our key West Coast gateways and we are thrilled to fly daily to Munich, starting in the summer season of 2024, said Dirk Janzen, vice president of passenger sales for Lufthansa Group Airlines. For our customers, it means additional travel opportunities, not only to Bavaria, but across Europe, Africa, the Middle East and beyond.

The additional routes from San Diego to Germany will be served by Lufthansa Airlines 293-seat Airbus.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
Self-proclaimed Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko will visit Russia on Friday to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin .

Source: BELTA, a Belarusian state-owned news outlet, reported by European Pravda

Details: BELTA reported that the main topics of the talks will be "the international agenda and regional issues", as well as common tasks in the economy, that is, "a lot of work in the field of import substitution".

Background:

The last time Putin and Lukashenko met was in July in Russia. Lukashenko was participating in the Russia-Africa summit.

After that meeting, Lukashenko said that the Wagnerites were "stressing him out" with their militant moods and that he was "against the division of Ukraine".

Later, Lukashenko said that he was "joking" about the intentions of Russian mercenaries to go "on a trip to Rzeszow".

In August, the leader of the Wagnerites, Yevgeny Prigozhin, was killed in a plane crash in Russia.

After his death, Lukashenko denied that he had supposedly guaranteed Prigozhin's safety after the coup attempt in Russia.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Even though we arent sure how a haunted house can compete with the horror of the real world right now  checked your grocery bill, lately?  its still fun to escape into the clutches of some murderous clowns every once in a while.

Haunted houses are throwing open their creaky doors and letting their demons out in preparation for spooky season.

Advertisement

Here are some haunted houses in the area to check out this Halloween season. Check the websites for rules, questions and deals.

Aurora

Basement of the Dead: Hours and days vary Sept. 22-Nov. 4. At 42 W. New York St. Tickets: $24.99-$70. 630-896-2466; Basementofthedead.com.

Advertisement

Purchase timed tickets online; including general admission tickets, VIP (skip the general admission line) and immediate access (skip both the VIP and general admission lines).

Admission includes entry to the Basement of the Dead, which is filled with demented doctors, nurses, dolls and other characters; and Shattered 3D, a circus-themed area full of nightmarish clowns.

Nights of Isolation are Oct. 4, 11 and 18, where guests receive a single glowstick and are left to find their way out of the 15,000-square-foot basement. There are no actors  so no jump scares for the less brave guests  but still plenty of animatronics and haunting scenes to frighten guests.

If youre feeling extra confident, check out one of the Blackout Nights Nov. 3-4, when guests must escape the demonic basement with only a glowstick  and a pitch-black house full of actors.

According to the cryptic note on the website, this is the last season for Basement of the Dead and Shattered 3D.

Downers Grove

Disturbia Haunted Attraction: Hours vary Sept. 22-Nov. 4. At 1213 Butterfield Road Suite D. Tickets: $22.99-$70. 630-896-2466; Disturbiachicago.com.

Nights of Isolation (no actors) are Oct. 11, 18 and 25. Blackout Nights (no lights) are Nov. 3-4.

Purchase timed tickets online; including general admission tickets, VIP (skip the general admission line) and immediate access (skip both the VIP and general admission lines).

Advertisement

The sister haunt of Basement of the Dead, Disturbia offers animatronics (including the giant Gatekeeper), a jack o lantern room, scary forest, a mausoleum and some truly unique characters. Amenities include free parking, concessions, Porta-Potties, gift shop and covered waiting areas. It is open regardless of weather.

Elgin

Evil Intentions: Hours are 7 p.m. to midnight Sept. 29 and Fridays and Saturdays in October and 7-10 p.m. Sundays in October plus Oct. 26, 30-31. At 900 Grace St. Tickets: $35-$75. 630-634-2858; Eihaunt.com.

Ticket options include general admission, VIP (skip the general admission line) and instant access (skip both lines).

Legend has it that the Elgin Casket Company, located in the towns industrial section, has been home to murder, violence, occult activities and unexplained occurrences.

Montgomery

The Massacre Haunted House: Hours vary beginning Sept. 29-Nov. 4. At 299 Montgomery Road. Tickets: $29.99-$59.99. 708-320-3327; FearTheMassacre.com.

Ticket options include general admission, fast pass (express admission) and skip the line (instant access.)

Advertisement

This popular haunt is one of the largest in the Chicago area and also includes escape rooms and axe throwing.

New for 2023 is The Torture Chamber, in addition to the usual horror and mayhem. The waiting areas are thankfully indoors and heated.

St. Charles

Monster Purge: Times vary Sept. 29-Oct. 29. Located behind the Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road. Tickets: $29.95-$45. Monsterpurge.com.

The 2022 pick for Best New Haunted Attraction by HauntedHouseChicago.com, Monster Purge returns for its sophomore season.

Shoot bloodthirsty zombies and monsters in style, from the safety of a 14-foot-tall monster truck bus. This beast is tricked out, from the face-melting sound system to the thunder-shock seats. And the paintball guns are mounted right in the windows. Each rider gets 100 rounds of paintballs. You can purchase more paintball pods of 100 for $10 per pod, cash only, while on the bus.

The action-packed ride lasts about 12-15 minutes.

Advertisement

It is advised you arrive at Kane County Fairgrounds at least 20 minutes prior to scheduled ride time. No refunds will be given if you miss your scheduled time.

Children under 6 are not permitted; ages 6-12 permitted with a paid adult.

West Chicago

The grinning, malicious figure awaits to terrorize guests at Sonny Acres Farm in West Chicago waiting for his next victim. (Sonny Acres/HANDOUT)

Sonny Acres Haunted Hayride and Haunted Barn: 7-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 7-9 p.m. Sundays Sept. 29-Oct. 29. At 29W310 North Ave. Tickets: $20-$22 per single attraction; $35 for combo pass. Haunted Barn VIP pass for $10 extra. 630-231-3859; sonnyacres.com/haunted-hayride.

Sonny Acres Farm might be a cute family pumpkin farm by day, but at night the ghosts and monsters come out to play. The Haunted Barn  set in an actual old abandoned barn  is themed The Curse of The Scare Crow because of the monster loosed inside set on unleashing horror and revenge.

The new Haunted Hayride attraction takes guests on a wagon ride through a spooky wood; complete with scary scenes, live actors, animatronics, lighting, music and sound effects.

Annie Alleman is a freelance reporter for the Beacon-News.
Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko left Belarus on Sept. 14 for an official visit to Russia, according to his press service.

Talks with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin are planned for Sept. 15 and will cover "the international agenda and regional issues," as well as economic issues like "joint efforts in import substitution."

Belarus is under heavy international sanctions for its role in aiding Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Since Putin launched the invasion in February 2022, Russia has become the most heavily sanctioned country in the world.

The news of the visit comes after the European Parliament adopted a resolution on Sept. 14, which calls for Europe to apply the same sanctions against Belarus as it currently does against Russia.

The resolution officially recognizes Lukashenko as an accomplice to the crimes of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, including the crime of deporting Ukrainian children from occupied territories.

The European Parliament believes that 2,150 Ukrainian children have been deported to Belarus and denounced the Belarus Red Cross for their involvement.

Lukashenko has enabled "Russias unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine" and therefore carries direct responsibility "for the destruction and damage caused to Ukraine," according to the resolution.

The resolution labels Belarus a "satellite state of Russia."

The U.S. announced new sanctions against Belarus in August, at the three-year anniversary of the fraudulent 2020 Belarusian election, in which Lukashenko solidified his grip over the country through the falsification of votes and mass repressions.

Read also: Belarus Weekly: Belarusian embassies to stop issuing passports luring opposition home

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Officials said the expedition cruise ship that ran aground in northeast Greenland earlier this week with more than 200 people on board wouldn't be able to be rescued until Friday morning at the earliest  but help came early. On Thursday morning, the Joint Arctic Command said that it has been freed.

"Ocean Explorer has been pulled free this morning by the Natural Institute's fishing research ship TARAJOQ," the command said on Facebook Thursday morning, according to a translation. This was the fishing research ship's second attempt at freeing the vessel, the first of which occurred on Wednesday during high tide, but was unsuccessful.

Ocean Explorer has been touted as a cruise ship "purpose-built for expedition travel to the world's most remote destinations." On the expedition website, it's been described as having "cutting-edge technology" and heralded for its "navigation capabilities." According to Aurora Expeditions, who is using the ship for its excursion, the Ocean Explorer is meant to accommodate 134 passengers with "state-of-the-art amenities."

Then on Tuesday, with 206 people on board, the ship got stuck in Alpefjord, which is part of the the world's largest national park  the Northeast Greenland National Park. Officials were not concerned about any risk from the incident and said that while it is "worrisome," there was no "acute danger to human life or the environment."

No further information about the condition of those on board has been revealed upon the news of the ship's freedom from the area.

Could UAW and automakers reach an 11th hour deal?

Potential timeline for next steps in Hunter Biden indictment

What NASA's new UFO report says  and what it doesn't
The sentencing of a Columbia man for drug charges from 2016 would have been notable Wednesday simply because of the age of the case. But just before Richland County Judge Daniel Coble sentenced Robert Marks to seven years in prison, the judge announced that he was fed up.

Im getting these cases, and its a heads you win, tails I lose, Coble told the courtroom, packed with sheriffs deputies who had turned out to support a tough sentence for Marks, who pleaded guilty to possession of crack cocaine with the intent to distribute. If I give him the big sentence (25 years), no harm, no foul, except that I violate my oath. If I give him a light sentence, based on the actions of the solicitors office, then all of a sudden its the judges fault because theres not a press release going out explaining the context about what has been happening (in this case) for the past seven years.

The sentencing became a stage for many of the growing tensions that appear to be straining South Carolinas Fifth Judicial Circuit.

On one side, a campaign led by Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott has criticized a system he has called catch and release, where violent offenders have repeatedly been given low bonds and probationary sentences.

On the other side are defense attorneys like state Rep. Todd Rutherford, who represented Marks and argued that sentencing his client to prison for drug charges would not stem the violence in Richland County.

And stuck the in middle is a judiciary, Coble said, who feel that they end up shouldering the blame. Im going to kick it right back and call it out, Coble said, stating he felt claims that judges were not sentencing fairly lacked context.

Marks, who already had an extensive criminal history involving multiple drug and weapon convictions, was arrested in 2016 after deputies executed a search warrant on his residence and found approximately 205 grams of cocaine, 8 grams of crack cocaine, 31 ecstasy pills, 1 pound of marijuana and 22 grams of a powdery substance recognized as molly, according to an arrest report.

Deputies also located two handguns  one of which had been reported stolen  drug paraphernalia (scales, baggies and a pipe) and ammunition while searching Marks residence.

Marks pleaded guilty to lessened charges in December 2020, prompting Rutherford to request a pre-sentence investigation, which is a report created by the S.C. Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services to determine whether a defendant is suited for community supervision under any probation program.

The pre-sentence investigation was completed February 2021. Since then, the case appeared to fall completely off the solicitors radar.

Melanie Darko, assistant solicitor for the Fifth Judicial Circuit, said the time lapse was due, in part, to a change in prosecutors, adding that she took over the case from former solicitor Sam McGlothin in 2021.

We have attempted several times to get it scheduled, but for various reasons it did not come to fruition, but we are here today to get it resolved, Darko said, referring to Marks sentencing hearing.

But in bringing attention to a courtroom filled with more than 20 Richland County sheriff deputies  all spectating  along with Lott, and a handful of solicitors with no business before the court, Coble looked to Rutherford to help him understand how a case older than can be that has been pled down as low as can be, ended up before him.

While Rutherford told Coble he didnt know why the case had stalled since 2021 other than what Marko offered in her explanation, he showed no reserve in blasting deputies sitting in the gallery for supposedly wasting taxpayer dollars.

Twenty-two officers sit here as they tell the county that they cant go help out at the jail, Rutherford said, referencing ongoing turmoil at the countys Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center, which is not run by the sheriffs department. They cant go help out as the citizens of Richland County continue to be assaulted, stabbed, killed and raped repeatedly. They dont have the time to do that, but they can come here.

Following the hearing, however, Lott rebutted, telling reporters that Rutherfords remarks concerning the jail sounded real good, but there was no substance to that whatsoever, adding that, unlike other sheriffs, his department does not manage the Richland County jail, although they help out when they can.

When asked how he felt about the outcome of Marks case, Lott said, I think justice was served today the best that it could be served. I think the judge made some great points, and (the case delay) wasnt fair for anybody.
The organization representing school librarians had been working for weeks to set up a series of workshops for their members next month, lining up speakers and sponsors to help librarians develop professionally. These were regularly scheduled events that the S.C. Association of School Librarians often held with assistance from the S.C. Department of Education.

That planning was disrupted by a letter sent by state Education Superintendent Ellen Weaver on Aug. 25 abruptly severing the departments relationship with the group. Of four planned workshops for librarians across the state, all but one had to be canceled, said the associations acting president, Tamara Cox.

The scramble to adjust the groups workshops is emblematic of the confusion and trepidation school librarians have felt in the weeks since, ending with association president Michelle Spires resigning her post last week.

I think mostly just hurt, is how Cox describes librarians in the wake of the shakeup. She was particularly upset that one of Weavers reasons for ending the relationship was that an association member told the states teacher recruitment and retention task force that librarians are being harassed and threatened, Cox said. Weavers decision to split with the association has made that situation worse, she said.

The superintendent accused the librarians association of creating a hostile environment between librarians and parents and using politicized rhetoric to oppose efforts to remove books from school shelves.

Weaver said the organization had shown a lack of discernment on the issue by hosting an advocacy toolkit on its website from the American Library Association, testifying about library censorship before the teacher recruitment and retention task force, and sending letters to school board members across the state which she said extensively quoted politicized rhetoric from a New York school district employee who states that, districts and boards should probably place more consideration on the emotional well-being of students rather than on attempts to pacify parents.

Cox pushed back against that characterization. To paint librarians as resisting parent involvement is untrue, she said. Librarians connect with parents through literacy nights, book fairs and more. We welcome family input so we can help students find their next favorite book. Additionally, many of us are also parents.

The State has reached out to the Department of Education for comment.

Cox preceded Spires as president of the state Association of School Librarians, a long-time member of the group and a school librarian herself at an Upstate school. She declined to identify which school out of a concern she could face retaliation from book critics for speaking out.

Her duties as president mainly revolve around running meetings and cutting checks, she said, as well as dealing with the current controversy.

I have a very strong, experienced board of directors who can also pitch in to help, she said. Its a volunteer group, so were not paid. We just choose to serve because we know libraries are important.

While the librarians association did not receive any money from the state, it is the only organization in South Carolina providing professional development opportunities specific to the school librarians job, according to the groups own description.

The groups leadership felt blindsided by Weavers decision to end the states relationship with the association, Cox said. Librarian leaders say they had open lines of communication with Weaver both during her campaign and since she took office in January. Weaver even spoke to the groups March conference via video, and had previously communicated plans to attend the groups 2024 conference.

Since Weavers Aug. 25 letter, Our multiple phone calls to her office and voicemail messages have not been returned, the group told members who joined a virtual town hall Tuesday, according to notes of the meeting provided to The State.

We continue to have our inbox open, Cox told The State. Our contacts are open, and were hopeful that some sort of resolution can be reached, just because we know its important to our members.

Some librarians in the town hall meeting expressed concern that their jobs might come under threat next, although Weavers letter reiterated that the education department deeply values the work of those working in school libraries, and state law requires a certified librarian be placed in any school with more than 375 students.

The librarian association also said it is working with other groups to monitor any library- or book-related bills in the Legislature next year. It is probably safe to assume that bills we have seen in other states may be considered in our state, the town hall notes say.

Part of the reason Cox feels the organization is needed is because the state librarian supervisor position at the education department, who was the point person for all things related to school libraries, has been vacant since the last supervisor retired years ago. It is unlikely that this position would return under the current leadership, the association said in its town hall.

Weve tried to fill that gap, and provide a librarians perspective, provide documents and evaluations specific to librarians, Cox said. Our job is a little different from a classroom teacher, so we have to ensure were heard at the state level. Now, she says, Everythings a big question mark. We dont know what to expect.

Cox said the association has seen a boost in support since the controversy with the education department blew up. Theyre hopeful to get the speakers for the canceled workshops back for a rescheduled webinar series, and 150 people have either newly joined the group or renewed their membership since the story first hit the news.

At Tuesdays town hall, the groups leaders explicitly took no position on whether books on LGBTQ themes should be placed in elementary schools.

SCASL does not dictate that specific books should be in school libraries, the group says. As a professional organization, we support the professional expertise of school librarians, who have specialized training in evaluating and purchasing books in line with state and district standards.

We believe that readers need access to a variety of books from which they can learn about different perspectives, gain an understanding of others lives, and develop critical thinking skills, the group said. Students come from a variety of backgrounds and belief systems and libraries seek to meet the diverse information needs of all children. Library collections should reflect the varied life experiences of our students.

Books in school libraries are not required reading, and parents always have the right to restrict what their own children read.
The sun sets on a Baptist church in Georgia on Tuesday, April 11, 2017. | David Goldman, Associated Press

Mainline Protestant clergy members and the worshippers they serve may share a faith, but they often dont hold the same political views, according to a new survey on mainline Protestantism from Public Religion Research Institute.

The survey showed that more than half of clergy members (55%) identify as liberal, compared to just 1 in 5 mainline Protestant churchgoers.

Church leaders are also more likely to identify as Democrats. Nearly half of mainline Protestant clergy members (49%) describe themselves as a Democrat, and just 14% say theyre Republican.

Among churchgoers, the balance between the two parties is more equal: 30% of mainline Protestant worshippers identify as Democrats, while 34% identify as Republican.

Related

Political conflict in churches

In spite of these political differences, most clergy members believe their congregation accepts them and does a good job discussing thorny political issues, like immigration and LGBTQ rights.

The majority of mainline clergy say their congregations are accepting of political differences, whether it is the clergypersons views or another congregants views, Public Religion Research Institute reported. Nearly 7 in 10 clergy (69%) say their congregations are at least moderately accepting of them when they have a political difference.

But some faith leaders do worry their church has grown increasingly divided by politics in recent years, as the United States, as a whole, has navigated growing tension between the Republican and Democratic parties.

Among mainline Protestant clergy, 37% agree that their church is more divided by politics than it was five years ago, the survey found.

The new research is based on responses from 3,066 clergy members from the seven largest mainline Protestant denominations in the U.S.: the United Methodist Church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the American Baptist Churches USA, the Presbyterian Church (USA), the Episcopal Church, the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

The survey was conducted online between November 2022 and May 2023. The margin of error is plus or minus 2.3 percentage points.

Should pastors endorse candidates?

One possible reason why many mainline Protestant churches avoid politics-related infighting is that few Americans want houses of worship to be political environments.

Most U.S. adults, including a large majority of mainline Protestants, say faith leaders should not endorse political candidates and should generally keep out of political matters, according to a 2020 survey report from Pew Research Center.

Protestants in the evangelical and historically Black traditions are the only major U.S. religious groups in which more people say churches should express their social and political views. Only about a third or fewer in other religious groups share this view, Pew reported at the time.
Cracked walls, mold, sewage backups, even the risk of electric shock. That's what students at Druid Hills High School outside Atlanta faced for years  and they wanted the world to see.

Chronic under-investment left school buildings and facilities there in disrepair. The problem got national attention after a video the students posted to social media went viral.

In the video, one student shows walls peeling from water damage. Another points to holes in the ceiling. One shows a sign warning students not to touch a metal pole in a classroom because of the risk of electrocution.

"This isn't really normal," said Harley Martz, a senior at Druid Hills who helped produce the video as a sophomore in 2022. "The bottom floor of our main building flooded  [students] had to relocate  and it was just very claustrophobic. I mean, those kids, I don't think they had class that week. I mean, it threw off just everyone's schedule."

As a new academic year begins, many students, like Martz, face barriers from the very walls of their school buildings, rather than their teachers or textbooks. A CBS News analysis of federal data found school districts with more Black students were able to invest far less money in buildings than majority-White districts  and often-unequal funding practices by state governments can make the problem worse.

7 miles apart, a world of difference

Druid Hills High is part of DeKalb County Public Schools, a district where CBS News found one of the starkest examples of unequal school building investment. Between 2015 and 2020, the DeKalb County School District invested about $961 in its buildings for each student enrolled.

Jack Cole, now a senior at Druid Hills, said the impact of under-investment was clear to the students.

"It's like there's no drive to want to be there and learn if I don't want to be in school in the first place," said Cole.

But while their school building is crumbling, others nearby are new, modern and innovative.

In comparison, City Schools of Decatur  a smaller, wealthier and majority-White public charter district completely encircled by the larger county district  invested more than $3,500 per student in buildings during those five years  and it shows.

School districts are almost entirely funded by local taxes, meaning wealthier districts have more money to invest in things like building improvements. Decatur's median household income is about $123,000, according to the latest U.S. Census estimates. DeKalb County's: less than $70,000.

The Decatur district's own website boasts of several recent building projects including restroom renovations, replacement blinds, upgraded air conditioning, new water bottle filling stations, and a new pottery kiln in an elementary school's art room  a stark contrast to what the Druid Hills students faced.

It's not the fault of wealthier school districts that they're able to invest more, said Mary Filardo, executive director of the 21st Century School Fund, who has studied inequity in capital school funding for decades.

But the system, Filardo says, has resulted in dramatic inequities around the country.

"There's no way to address the structural inequity that we have between school districts without addressing how we fund them," Filardo said.

A spokesperson for DeKalb County School District declined to comment on CBS findings; City Schools of Decatur did not respond to our requests for comment.

Unequal funding

Experts told CBS News state funding is needed to help make up gaps like these. But the opposite happened in the case of DeKalb and Decatur.

Federal data shows DeKalb County schools received about $132 per student from the state for "capital outlay"  money used to acquire land or renovate buildings  and other long-term spending. Decatur got $345 per student.

Majority-Black districts are often less funded  and as a result have less to invest in capital projects  than districts with more White students. From 2015-2020, DeKalb County schools had three times more Black students than Decatur, and six times more low-income students.

During that same period nationwide, districts that were at least 80% Black invested about half as much money in buildings than those that were less than 20% Black.

And it appears many states may be contributing to the problem by giving those majority-Black districts less money for capital outlay. Districts that were at least 80% Black got about a quarter of the money those with few Black students received.

Research has shown for years that there are significant overlaps between race and poverty in schools, and low-income districts were similarly impacted. CBS News' analysis of federal data showed those with more students who qualified for free or reduced-price lunch invested less in buildings, too.

Local funding, local disparities

School districts fund building projects through local taxes and so-called bond referenda  proposals to raise funds voted on by residents. State funding can help fill in the gaps, but current funding decisions often exacerbate inequalities.

"Part of what we have structured in this country is local control, which means we have many thousands of school districts," Filardo said.

For the most part, school districts  rich or poor  are "funded locally, particularly for school facilities," Filardo said.

"And so, if you're poor, if you have really old buildings, you may not have enough money within your district to afford the modernization of your buildings," Filardo added.

CBS News found examples like DeKalb and Decatur across the U.S.

CBS News Los Angeles found disparities between two adjacent districts; one had high percentages of Black and Hispanic students, while the other was mostly White.

Fontana Unified School District, which had more than 80% students of color and more than 92% of its children qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch, invested just $450 per student in buildings during those five years.

Etiwanda Schools, just one district to the west and with fewer students of color and fewer students in poverty, invested more than $1,350 per student.

On the East Coast, CBS News New York found the Brentwood Union Free School District  in a Long Island community where nearly all students were Black or Hispanic and qualified for financial aid  was able to invest just $25 per student on its facilities.

Another Long Island school district, Shoreham-Wading River Central School District, spent nearly $6,000 per student on buildings. Nearly all its students were White, and less than 5% were low-income enough to qualify for lunch assistance.

Even when districts have tried to give money to the schools that need it the most, it's often not enough.

Records obtained by CBS News Miami showed that Broward County Public Schools was estimated to need $2.9 billion for building improvements in 2014, but the district only asked for $800 million in its bond referendum that year. District officials told CBS News Miami they didn't ask for the full amount because of concerns voters might reject the proposal.

CBS News analyzed data showing how that $800 million was spent. It shows schools with more low-income students and Black students were budgeted more money for building improvements. But those poorer, majority-minority districts have been slower than wealthier, white districts to complete projects.

In Colorado, low-income districts are forced to compete for a limited pool of funding every year. Schools that don't make the cut can be left with dilapidated buildings and no way to improve them.

"What we have is a ticking time bomb and no solutions," the superintendent of one district told CBS News Colorado. "Because there is no financial support."

Real-world consequences

These disparities have a clear impact on learning, said Dr. Josh Sharfstein, M.D. who has done extensive research on these kinds of building inequities at Johns Hopkins University's Bloomberg School of Public Health.

"The physical condition of schools affects the health of children, and it affects the learning of children," he said. "Schools can make kids sick from asthma, from overheating, from leaks and mold, all kinds of things. Also, kids don't learn as well when they're in environments that aren't well-suited for learning."

Decades of research back up the assertion that the physical condition of schools impacts student performance.

A 2012 Miami-Dade study revealed that students in aging buildings score notably lower on tests, even after adjusting for things like income.

Researchers with The World Bank in 2019 found "providing access not only to school places but also to spaces that are safe and healthy positively affects pupils' academic outcomes."

And according to a 2022 report from the Center for American Progress, "upgrading and modernizing schools is not simply a matter of aesthetics but an essential element of learning."

In August 2023, CBS News toured Baltimore City School District's Benjamin Franklin High School, built in 1926 and one of the district's oldest buildings. Its age and lack of renovations were visible to anyone who looked.

The problem of not having air conditioning recently became all too clear. Just a few days after the school year began on August 28, the school was forced to send students home early as a heat wave smothered the city.

Other classrooms feature rotting and collapsed floors, holes in ceiling tiles, computers from the 1990s, and blackboards from the 1960s

"It's kind of hard, you know. You see the ceiling. It's messed up," one student said. "I mean, sometimes it gets crowded, and it might be hot, like some days ... it gets really hot."

Sharfstein said the inequities in Baltimore are rooted in history dating back to public school segregation  as are many other disparities CBS News found around the country.

"It's important to understand the roots in history of what we're seeing right now in the state of Maryland," Sharfstein said. "Really, for decades, Baltimore [City School District] has been disinvested. There have not been the same levels of investment in a city that is majority Black than in the rest of the state. And the consequences of that are physically manifest in school buildings."

The problem only worsens as each year passes without enough investment, according to Sharfstein.

"Because there have been such disproportionate shares of political power, people who are low income, often minority communities living near those schools, their voices haven't been heard," said Sharfstein. "I think every state should be asking the question of how to make funding decisions fair for schools and children."

CBS News Chicago: A Harvey school was falling apart, then officials took action without new taxes

New approaches

Recognizing the problem in 2020, Maryland state lawmakers started to fix the state's school funding model.

Overriding a veto by the governor, the General Assembly passed the "Blueprint for Maryland's Future," legislation that increases annual education funding by $3.8 billion within the next 10 years. That will include an additional $4,000 going to schools for each student enrolled.

As part of the "Blueprint," lawmakers constructed the "Built to Learn" Act specifically to help fund building construction and renovation, including $400 million specifically targeted towards building and repairing schools in lower-income and minority districts.

"We are investing in a more equitable system across the state of Maryland than almost any other state in the country," said State Senate President Bill Ferguson, who represents Baltimore in Maryland's Capitol.

"I think Maryland has done a great job of really trying to make a more equitable funding system. We don't just solely rely on the property tax in Maryland," Ferguson said. "We use state dollars so that wealthier jurisdictions put in more where they have the ability. The state steps in for the lower income jurisdictions to make sure that we can fund appropriately."

A handful of other states are trying a similar approach.

"I think every state needs to revisit how they're doing," said Stephanie Smith, a member of Maryland's House of Delegates. "I think we can't always wait for just a change in administration."

"From what I've seen just going around the city and the state, it is working," said Smith who represents Baltimore City and serves on the House's Appropriations Committee. "People are putting these dollars to use."

Whether students are at school districts with explosive growth and new buildings or in districts with old, deteriorating buildings, "at every level, the student still deserves to be in a safe, healthy building that supports their learning," said Smith.

But critics say under Maryland's "Blueprint," more money needs to be sent even faster to school districts in need.

CBS News Philadelphia: "Do more with less": Why PA school districts continue to struggle with funding despite unfair ruling

Sharfstein was so concerned about the inequities that still exist even in Maryland's new funding approach that he sent a letter to state officials writing that the current method "does not appear to be fair to those students ... disproportionately low income, Black and Hispanic... who go to school in aging facilities with major infrastructure problems."

The money won't come soon enough for students already attending Franklin High who will graduate before any renovation or change comes to the high school.

"We've really tried to do the best we can to make a more wealth equalized system," said Ferguson. "We still have a ways to go."

Ross Palombo, Jennifer Bisram and Joe Gorchow contributed to this report.

How common are prison escapes?

Timeline of the special counsel investigation into Hunter Biden

UAW worker on Ford layoffs, CEO salaries and automakers' "family" culture
A 28-year-old man was charged with murder in connection with the stabbing death of 77-year-old Emily Foster in the University District on Sept. 9.

A Columbus police news release said the suspect, Michael J. Brooks II, 28, was arrested on Wednesday in Georgia. The release said he is currently hospitalized for injuries sustained in an unrelated incident and is under guard by law enforcement. An arrest warrant will be served on him once he is released from medical care.

Foster was found in the kitchen of her home on the 2000 block of Iuka Avenue, where she had lived for 50 years, on Saturday afternoon.

According to a 911 call that the Dispatch obtained, one of Foster's neighbors had gone to Foster's home around 3:55 p.m. Sept. 9 to check on her.

The neighbor, who told dispatchers she had a key, let herself into the home and saw Foster lying on the kitchen floor. She had been stabbed and was clearly dead, the 911 caller said.

Curt Steiner, a friend of Foster's  she worked with him at Steiner-Lesic Communicaitions  said on Thursday, "It will come as a great relief to the family, friends and neighbors that the assailant has been apprehended, which allows everyone to focus on the great life that Emily Foster had."

Edward Efsic, a neighbor of Foster's, said people in the neighborhood have been concerned after Foster's death.

"I'm relieved," Efsic said of the arrest. "It's good news."

According to Franklin County Common Pleas Court records, Brooks has a prior conviction for aggravated robbery in 2016. He was sentenced to 4 years and 9 months in prison, and released on June 15 this year.

In that case, Brooks had pointed a gun at someone who had let him use his phone after Brooks claimed his car had broken down. Three days prior to being sentenced in that case, Brooks was arrested in a stolen vehicle.

Brooks was released on a $10,000 recognizance bond on Sept. 5 for a failure to comply with the order of a police officer charge. Brooks had pleaded guilty that day to the charge and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 23 by Franklin County Common Pleas Judge Jaiza Page.

Foster was an editor for several magazines, including Columbus Monthly. She had authored several books, including one about the University District and its history. In addition to working for Steiner-Lesic Communications, she was associate vice president, communications, at Ohio State University under Steiner.

At this time, police said the motive is still unknown.

Dispatch reporter Bethany Bruner contributed to this report.

mferench@dispatch.com

@MarkFerenchik

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Man arrested in Georgia, charged with murder in death of Emily Foster
A 19-year-old Minnesota man is accused of waterboarding and brutally physically and sexually assaulting a woman for three days in her dorm room last weekend.

St. Paul police arrested Keanu Avery Labatte, 19, at St. Catherine University, a women's college, shortly after noon Sunday, alleging he forcibly held the woman he had been dating in her dorm room for three days while repeatedly assaulting her and threatening to kill her and her family, according to Ramsey County sheriff's records and the criminal complaint, which NBC News obtained.

The woman told police that she and Labatte had been dating for two months and that he arrived on the campus from his home in Granite Falls  about 135 miles west of the university  on Thursday night for a weekend visit. She said Labatte "discovered text messages, pictures and social media information which infuriated him" on her phone, became enraged and took her phone before he started the string of alleged assaults.

St Catherine University in Saint Paul, Minn. (Google maps)

Labatte allegedly raped the woman, threatened to kill her and strangled her, leading her to believe she was going to die, according to the complaint.

He also allegedly threatened to kill her family "and reminded her that she knew what he had done to a prior girlfriend, which was to hold a knife to her throat," it says.

At the time of the alleged assault, Labatte was on probation for violating a harassment/restraining order, according to the criminal complaint, which does not provide more information.

The victim told police that Saturday brought the "worst of it," alleging that Labatte waterboarded her by forcing her to lie down in the bathtub, covering her mouth with a wet washcloth and pouring water on her face; later that day, he allegedly took a knife and threatened to cut her veins so she would die.

The victim managed to escape from her dorm room Sunday morning, when she persuaded Labatte to allow her to go to the cafeteria, leading him to allow her to take her cellphone so he could try to keep track of her, the complaint says.

After the woman escaped, she went to the university security office "distraught and visibly upset," reporting she had been physically and sexually abused since Thursday, the complaint says, adding that a school security official immediately notified police.

The woman's phone showed that Labatte had tried to call her five times in a little more than 20 minutes that morning after she left the room and that at one point, he had texted her "asking why there were cops outside," the complaint says.

The woman underwent a sexual assault examination at the hospital, it says. When police found Labatte in the woman's dorm room and arrested him on charges of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, domestic assault by strangulation and threats of violence, he told them, "I plead the 5th," and authorities did not question him further at the scene, according to the complaint.

Labatte is being detained in lieu of $100,000 bail, the criminal complaint shows. It was not immediately clear whether he has an attorney who could speak on his behalf, and a spokesperson for the Ramsey County Public Defenders Office could not immediately be reached for comment Thursday afternoon.

Labatte is next due in court Oct. 9, said a spokesperson for the Ramsey County Attorney's Office.

A spokesperson for the university said in a statement that it is school policy "not to issue any comment that would affect student confidentiality or potentially re-traumatize individuals" and that officials did not want to jeopardize the investigation.

The spokesperson added that the school's public safety department audits its responses after incidents "to determine if any changes should be recommended."

The university has on-campus resources, including licensed mental health counselors, social workers and physicians, available to assist students who need help after the incident, the spokesperson said.

Intimate partner violence affects nearly half of people in the U.S., with about 1 in 2 women reporting having experienced sexual or physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner at some point in their lives, according to the most recent report on intimate partner and sexual violence from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 44% of men report the same, according to the CDC.

Data from U.S. crime reports suggests that about 1 in 5 homicide victims are killed by intimate partners and that more than half of female homicide victims are killed by current or former male intimate partners, according to the CDC.

Research has shown that strangulation is a strong predictor of intimate partner homicide, with one study showing it was associated with a more than 70% risk of subsequent homicide.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, call the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline at 1-800-656-4673. The hotline, run by the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), can put you in contact with your local rape crisis center. You can also access RAINNs online chat service at https://www.rainn.org/get-help. Confidential chats are available in English and in Spanish.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or the threat of domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline for help at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or go to www.thehotline.org for anonymous, confidential online chats, available in English and Spanish. Individual states often have their own domestic violence hotlines as well.

Advocates at the National Domestic Violence Hotline field calls from both survivors of domestic violence as well as individuals who are concerned that they may be abusive toward their partners.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Homer Glen officials seek to stop a Will County Department of Transportation study of County Highway 1, and plans to widen the road and the shoulders. (Michelle Mullins/Daily Southtown)

The Homer Glen Village Board is urging Will Countys Division of Transportation to protect a 4-mile stretch of County Highway 1 from being widened after residents said the proposed project would be detrimental.

Residents said widening the road to industry standards would destroy mature trees, harm wildlife, take land from property owners and invite more traffic down the winding, rural road.

Advertisement

The plan has caused a great deal of stress and anxiety for all of us who live along the corridor and who moved here for the community and nature in harmony, resident Edna Picciolini said.

Residents have started a website, www.saveparkerroad.com, and a petition urging Will County to reconsider the project. Members of the Homer Glen Village Board agree.

Advertisement

Mayor Christina Neitzke-Troike said the resolution approved Wednesday, urging protection of the road, is the first step the village will take to advocate for area residents.

This road is a beautiful road, Neitzke-Troike said. It is what Homer Glen is about. If they come in and change the look and atmosphere of the road, it will kill the beauty of this road.

The curvy two-lane Highway 1 is surrounded by rural residential area, mature trees and some agriculture. (Michelle Mullins/Daily Southtown)

Will County is in the first phase of studying improvements to the roadway, which runs from the intersection of Parker Road and U.S. Route 6 on the south, north on Parker Road, northeast on Chicago-Bloomington Trail to Hadley Road and ends at Will-Cook Road. The corridor, which runs through Homer Glen, Homer Township and New Lenox Township, was last reconstructed 42 years ago and has reached the end of its useful life, county highway officials said.

The Will County Rural Historic Structural Survey recommends the Hadley Road and Chicago-Bloomington Trail be named a Heritage Route for its historical significance to the region, Homer Glen officials said. The corridor was originally a Native American trail and some sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places are located along the route.

The regions first post office was established in 1835, and mail was carried by horseback from Chicago, according to the village. The post office also served what is now present-day Worth and Oak Lawn.

The road is in fact very historical and its very scenic and it is very rural and we definitely want to continue to protect that, Trustee Rose Reynders said. We want to work as diligently as we possibly can to make this happen for our residents.

Resident Mikie Smit said at some point the road will need to be serviced, but the U.S. Department of Transportation allows for flexibility when meeting design standards and can grant design exemptions if the aesthetic, scenic, historical or cultural resources and physical characteristics of the area help give a community its identity. Then federal funding for improvements can still be retained without altering the rural characteristics of the corridor.

The county says Route 1 was last reconstructed in 1981 and has reached the end of its service life. (Michelle Mullins/Daily Southtown)

Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy >

The villages next steps would be to pass formal legislation that states the land adjacent to the corridor is already serving the highest public use and declare the roads that make up County Highway 1 as a Rural Heritage Corridor.

Advertisement

Everyone is in favor of protecting this Heritage Corridor, Smit said. We have a shot to protect the aesthetics, the character, the history, the environment and still acquire federal funding. Theres an opportunity for everybody to win. Im interested in protecting the characteristics of the area and the property of the residents.

Homer Glen is pursuing jurisdiction of the corridor from Will County so it can have more control over plans, but Neitzke-Troike said they need information on accident reports, flooding or drainage problems, and maintenance costs.

Village officials said while they support residents efforts to preserve the road, they cautioned the resolution passed Wednesday is not binding.

It is an expressed sentiment by the board, Trustee Jennifer Consolino said. Its our way of saying to Will County that we prefer nothing be done.

Christina Kupkowski, a project manager with the Will County Division of Transportation, said the county is processing public comments it received in July and August from residents. The county hosted a public information meeting in July with about 180 people in attendance and accepted feedback through Aug. 9 through www.parkerhadleystudy.com and via mail.

Michelle Mullins is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
A man was arrested in a fatal shooting from Friday at an apartment in west Fort Worth, according to Tarrant County jail records.

Danville Gaye, 26, was arrested Wednesday by the Tarrant County Sheriffs Office and is charged with murder in the shooting that killed 26-year-old Justin Michael Lewis.

Officers were dispatched to the El Rancho Escondido apartment complex in the 2800 block of Las Vegas Trail shortly after 1:30 a.m. Police said they believe the shooting started as an argument involving two people against Lewis.

The victim was shot and he died from his injuries, officials said. The Tarrant County Medical Examiners Office has identified the victim as Lewis, who lived at the apartment complex.

The Homicide Unit is investigating the shooting, police said. No arrests were immediately announced.

Gaye is being held at the Tarrant County Corrections Center and his bond is set at $250,000.
A man is facing Class I felony charge one day after reports of an armed and dangerous person sent UNC into lockdown for a second time this semester.

Mickel Deonte Harris, 27, was arrested in Chapel Hill on Wednesday.

On Thursday, Orange County Jail records showed that Harris has been charged with assault, possessing a firearm on educational property and communicating threats.

During his first court appearance Thursday afternoon, Harris was charged with three Class 1 misdemeanors with a maximum of a 120-day sentence; a Class 2 misdemeanor with a maximum 60-day sentence; a Class I felony with a maximum sentence of 24 months; and a Class A1 misdemeanor with a maximum sentence of 150 days.

His bond was set at $50,000 by Judge Hathaway Pendergrass. The state asked for a bond increase from the original $10,000 due to his prior arrests for similar crimes.

The case will be reviewed on Monday.

Alert Carolina sends campus into lockdown

At 12:54 p.m. on Wednesday, UNC issued an emergency Alert Carolina notification that stated there was an armed and dangerous person on or near campus and urged people to shelter in place. The alert followed a 911 call at 12:45 p.m.

UNC Police Chief Brian James said in a Wednesday press conference that the suspect threatened an employee at the Alpine Bagels on campus with a gun.

According to prosecutor Hardin, around 12:44 p.m. on Wednesday near the student union, one of the first officers on the scene saw numerous people running in all directions. Hardin alleges that Harris told an employee at Alpine Bagel in the student union that he would blow your (expletive) head off. Harris allegedly had a 9 mm gun.

Law enforcement later found a gun box with 30 rounds of ammo, 9mm, 4 gun receipts and an ammo box in their search.

Although police have not confirmed the nature of the relationship between Harris and the employee, James said he believes the two were somehow connected prior to the incident.

The campus went into lockdown for nearly an hour and a half. At 2:10 p.m., the all-clear was issued by UNC police.

On Aug. 28, a week into the fall semester, the UNC campus was also placed on lockdown after a 34-year-old graduate student, Tailei Qi, allegedly shot and killed associate professor Zijie Yan.

Harris also charged earlier this month

In addition to the charges related to the UNC lockdown, Harris was also charged with assault, communicating threats and going armed to the terror of the public in connection with a similar incident on Sept. 5.

According to an incident report obtained by The News & Observer from Chapel Hill police, Harris allegedly pulled out a handgun at a convenience store in Chapel Hill last week. Until his arrest yesterday, he had an outstanding warrant in relation to the convenience store charges.

In that incident, Harris allegedly shouted Im gonna kill you. You dont know who I am to a person at the convenience store.

Other charges dropped

In October, Harris was charged with assault by pointing a gun and going armed to the terror of the public. However, in this case, he was also charged with assault by strangulation, according to court documents obtained by The News & Observer. Those charges were dropped by the Durham County District Attorney in January.

On the same day in October, Harris was charged with one count of misdemeanor cruelty to animals.

In February, that case against Harris was similarly dropped, according to court documents.

Per the Criminal and Infraction Public Record Search, the State was unable to proceed with prosecution in those matters because the victim could not be located and neither the victim or witness appeared in court despite subpoenas being issued, the Durham County District Attorneys Office said Thursday in a statement to The News & Observer.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  One week after a teenage driver was shot at a busy Clarksville intersection, authorities arrested a man for murder charges.

The shooting was reported just after 3:15 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 6 at the intersection of Wilma Rudolph Boulevard and Holiday Drive, leaving several residents stunned as the neighborhood went into lockdown.

ORIGINAL STORY: Clarksville police investigating shooting at busy intersection

The Clarksville Police Department said the 17-year-old boy driving a red Dodge Charger was shot during the incident, but his death wasnt announced until Tuesday, Sept. 12.

There was also a 17-year-old female passenger in the Charger at the time of the shooting, but she was not injured, according to officials.

RELATED: Clarksville residents stunned after shooting at busy intersection causes lockdown

Detectives said they have worked relentlessly, following leads in the fatal shooting investigation, which led to the identification of 26-year-old Quantavious Golliday as a suspect.

Quantavious Golliday (Source: Clarksville Police Department)

According to authorities, Golliday has a violent criminal history, has previous convictions of aggravated assault and Schedule II drugs in 2017, and is well-known to law enforcement. Not only was he arrested for a probation violation warrant on Tuesday, Sept. 5, but he allegedly has other charges pending in Montgomery County Circuit Court and General Sessions Court.

PREVIOUS: 17-year-old dies after being shot at busy Clarksville intersection

Officials said Clarksville detectives and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) agents arrested Golliday for first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder shortly after 4:45 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 13 at a business on Providence Boulevard.

In addition, Golliday has reportedly been charged with possession of a firearm as a felon; possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony; prohibited weapons (brass knuckles); and manufacturing, delivery, and sale of a controlled substance. Police said Golliday had several different narcotics including fentanyl, cocaine, and crack cocaine.

 Have breaking come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts 

Authorities said other charges are pending in connection with this ongoing shooting investigation.

If you have any information about or additional video footage of the incident, you are asked to contact Detective Goble at 931-648-0656, ext. 5323. If you want to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward, call the Clarksville Montgomery County Crime Stoppers Tipsline at 931-645-8477 or submit a tip online.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
Sacramento police say they have arrested a man in connection with a stabbing that left one man dead Wednesday in a North Sacramento neighborhood.

Police were called to the 2900 block of Connie Drive in the citys Ben Ali neighborhood at 10:53 a.m. after receiving reports of a medical aid call, police said in a news release. When officers arrived, they found a man lying on the ground with a stab wound.

Medical personnel pronounced the man deceased at the scene, the Sacramento Police Department said. He was identified by the Sacramento County Coroners Office as 30-year-old Wayne Lewis, of Sacramento.

Officers said Thursday morning that they had taken 32-year-old Corey Domontae Harrison into custody as a suspect in the stabbing. Harrison will be arraigned on the charge of murder during an arraignment scheduled for Friday. He remains in custody at the Sacramento County Main Jail without bail.
A 34-year-old shot to death by a Stockton police officer Monday night has been identified.

His name was Jory Lester, a spokesperson for the San Joaquin County Medical Examiner said.

Lester, a Stockton resident, was shot by Stockton police officer Marcos Alonso around 10 p.m. Monday near the Fremont Street and Pershing Avenue intersection, north of the city's waterfront, according to police.

Lester died at under the overpass of Interstate 5 after officers attempted life-saving measures, police said.

The Stockton man's death marks Stockton's third fatal police shooting of 2023.

More: 'I just need somewhere to be:' witness describes moments before Stockton police shooting

Monday also wasn't Alonso's first involvement in a police shooting. He was also among five officers who fatally shot a 33-year-old man in January in north Stockton, according to information the department released at the time.

Lester was hiding behind a concrete pillar when officers confronted him in the moments before the shooting, police said.

The department claims Lester" refused to comply with officers' commands," and at one point pulled a replica firearm from his pants.

That's when Alonso shot him, police said. It's unclear how many officers were at the scene, or if they too fired at Lester.

Alonso is on paid leave while the department and the California Department of Justice investigate the shooting, police said.

This article originally appeared on The Record: Man fatally shot by Stockton police identified as this 34-year-old man
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Police are looking for a suspect after a man was fatally shot in Whitehaven Wednesday night.

Memphis Police responded to the shooting in the 5200 block of Whiteplains Cove before 7:30 p.m. The victim was transported to Regional One but did not survive his injuries.

A neighbor who didnt want to be identified said the street is normally quiet.

My daughter gave me a call around 7:30. I was at work and she told me Daddy something has happened in the Cove and I was, you know, blown away, just surprised because nothing ever happens here in this neighborhood, on this side anyway, the neighbor said. But she gave me a call and to my surprise someone had got shot is what she told me and it was very surprising and alarming.

One person found dead in Southwest Memphis

Police say the known female suspect fled the scene. The neighbor believes it was a young couple who stayed in the home. He says they never caused any issues but they just moved in six months ago.

I didnt get a chance to know them. I saw them come outside every now and then, he said. It seems to be a young couple. I see some of the guys walking back and forth down the street so, they havent been here very long.

If you have any information, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
A TikToker called a women-only carriage in Japan akin to "segregation" and filmed himself entering it.

Viewers accused him of being disrespectful and said the cars were meant to provide a safe space.

The TikToker has also received hate for other videos, like one where he recorded in a no-filming zone.

The internet is calling a TikToker "disrespectful" and "rude" after he filmed himself entering a women-only train carriage in Japan and compared it to gender-based segregation that countries like Saudi Arabia mandate.

On September 5, the Australian creator Turan Spidey, who has 354,000 followers on his vlog channel @shearingshedvlogs, shared the video with a caption saying a women-only space is the "last thing" he expected to see "in such a free country like Japan."

"Reminds me of something I would see in a country with strict segregation rules," he added, alluding in his video to the Arab country.

Users were quick to point out that these carriages in Japan are meant to serve as safe zones where women could feel more protected from harassment.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

In Spidey's clip, which has been viewed over 2.4 million times, he filmed himself walking into the women-only carriage to seemingly snark at the idea. "I am the women inspector, checking there's only women on this carriage," he said, pointing his camera at the rows of women passengers.

His video has been flooded with negative comments. People are calling him "obnoxious" and saying he was doing the exact thing these carriages were designed to prevent: making women uncomfortable. "It's for women's safety," one comment with over 21,000 likes says. "You literally made the whole train uncomfortable by not following the rules written IN HUGE LETTERS."

Multiple top comments also noted that people like him are the reason these gendered trains exist.

Women-only carriages have been operating in Japan since 2005 (an early version of the concept dates as far back as 1912, but those were later replaced by priority seats). The idea was launched after women reported a record high number of touching and sexual harassment incidents on public transit the previous year, according to Jobs In Japan. However, only some of Japan's trains offer these specialized carriages; one of the busiest lines introduced them earlier this year, per Japan Today.

TikTok users said Spidey "embarrassed" himself by dismissing or being uninformed about these social implications. Some especially infuriated viewers urged him to leave the country or said they hoped he'd be deported. Spidey did not return Insider's request for comment.

In addition to comments, some TikTokers made their own videos stitching and responding to his in an effort to better educate the public about Japan's gendered trains.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

"They're segregated because they're allowing there to be a space for women to be able to be away from men," the user @torigrier.4 said in a response video last week. "They created that space for their safety, and instead of respecting that, you decided to violate that."

The user added that he "scared" those women and said she believed he entered the carriage out of entitlement.

Spidey has been accused of being disrespectful in his other travel vlogs, like one from Saturday where he filmed a street performance in Japan that had a no-filming sign.

Japan is not the only country to have implemented women-only train cars as a protective measure against potential unwanted attention from men. The Cairo Metro in Egypt and the Rio de Janeiro Metro in Brazil offer similar transportation asylums, as well as train networks in India, the Philippines, and Indonesia.

Read the original article on Insider
SAN DIEGO  A man was killed Wednesday night after being struck by an Amtrak train in the Harborview area, authorities said.

According to the San Diego County Sheriffs Office, the incident occurred around 11:07 p.m. near the intersection of California Street and Grape Street.

Lufthansa Airlines to expand nonstop flight service from San Diego

Responding San Diego Police Department officers found a man who was hit by a southbound Amtrak train. He was transported to a local hospital, but authorities say he did not survive his injuries.

The Sheriffs Transit Enforcement Unit (TEU) investigates incidents along the routes of the North County Transit District which Amtrak uses. SDPD requested the Sheriffs TEU respond to conduct the investigation.

American Red Cross calls on San Diegans to donate blood amid national shortage

The Medical Examiners Office will work to identify the man, as well as determine cause and manner of death pending notification of his family.

Anyone with information about this case can call the Sheriffs Departments non-emergency line at (858) 565-5200.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
An East Point man in Hawaii for his honeymoon says he went from the excitement of surfing to being paralyzed in a bizarre incident.

We were essentially just out here having a blast, Brendan Town told Channel 2s Tom Jones.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Town says he and his wife, Cho, were enjoying the breathtaking waterfalls and soothing sounds of the ocean in Oahu and surrounding islands.

I saw sunrises. Sunsets, Town said.

Then it all came crashing down.

When something like this happened, I just didnt expect it to be so severe, he said from a hospital bed in Honolulu. At the end of the day, it left me paralyzed from the waist down.

TRENDING STORIES:

Two days before he and his wife were set to head back to East Point, Brendan suffered a non-traumatic injury.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

It all began when Brendan took surfing lessons and surfed for the first time. He was in the water for a couple of hours lying on his surfboard, waiting for a wave. Then, at his instructors direction, he would pop up and ride the wave.

He had no idea what that was doing to his body.

I think that is what extended the back and hurt the spine, Town said.

He felt pain in his back, but at first, he ignored it. Then, a couple of hours later while he and Cho were having lunch, he lost feeling in his legs. He couldnt walk.

Doctors diagnosed his injury as Surfers Myelopathy. There have only been about 60 documented cases of the rare condition.

Theres really not that many documented cases, He said.

Town is getting therapy in Honolulu after getting released from the ICU last week, but he knows he can get the best care back home at Atlantas famed Shepherd Center, which specializes in spinal injuries.

His mother, Irene Town, said the wait to get him home has been hard. Shes has reached out to Delta in hopes the airline can arrange a business-class flight to get him back to Atlanta.

Its been hard. Really hard. But were gonna get him home, Irene Town said through tears.

Brendan will need special accommodations for the 9-hour flight home. Through it all, he keeps a positive attitude. Hes more worried about his wife, than himself. The couple are expecting and announced recently that they are having a baby boy.

Brendan is a well-known mixologist East Point and his community has rallied around him, raising thousands for his medical treatment and to get him home.

Brendan said on a GoFundMe that support from his friends and family is what is keeping he and his wife going.

I just choose to see the beauty in it all, he said.

You can donate to the GoFundMe HERE.




A Marine drill instructor could face charges after an investigation found he subjected female recruits to unwanted touching and peered into a porta-potty that was occupied by a recruit.

A March investigation directed by the Recruit Training Regiment at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego determined the drill instructor had created a toxic culture and recommended punitive action, including charges under military law.

Female recruits told the investigating officer that the drill instructor also asked them if their hot moms or sisters were coming to graduation and grabbed one of them by the head to make her do what was apparently his laundry.

Marine Corps Times obtained a copy of the investigation report via a public records request under the Freedom of Information Act. In that copy, all names were redacted.

Hazing reports in the Marine Corps have dropped significantly

The redactions make it unclear exactly what rank or position the drill instructor held, but the investigation report refers to him as a staff noncommissioned officer, meaning he was at least a staff sergeant, or an E-6. The alleged misconduct all appeared to have taken place in the regiments Company C.

While the investigation is complete, the judicial proceedings are still pending, and no additional details can be released at this time, Marine spokeswoman Capt. Bridget Glynn told Marine Corps Times in August via email.

Glynn said that the investigation in question contains the only substantiated allegation of misconduct by drill instructors at the San Diego depot in 2023. The spokeswoman did not respond by time of publication to a follow-up question about whether the drill instructor was still responsible for training recruits.

In a process that started in 2021, Marine boot camp has become gender-integrated at the company level, but it remains single-gender at the smaller platoon level. The Marine Corps is the only military branch that hasnt fully integrated recruit training by gender, Marine Corps Times previously reported.

The investigation began after a Dec. 12, 2022, incident in which the male drill instructor grabbed a female recruit by the head and said something along the lines of I choose you. Meet me in the laundry room, multiple recruits later told the investigating officer.

Another Marine then found that female recruit and another female recruit in the laundry room washing what they said were black sweatpants. The investigation didnt specify to whom they belonged, but one recruit later told an investigator she heard the drill instructor say that day he needed two female recruits to do laundry for him.

An unnamed Marine  its unclear from the redacted investigation whether she was the same person who found the recruits in the laundry room  then told the recruits in that platoon to close their eyes and raise their hands if there was anything she needed to know about the drill instructor. Several hands went up, according to the investigation.

The ensuing investigation, completed in March, found the drill instructor spoke unprofessionally, conducted himself in an unprofessional manner, and taught impressionable recruits and new Marines that these actions were acceptable in the Marine Corps.

The Recruit Training Order, which provides instructions about how Marine boot camp should be conducted, does not specifically prohibit drill instructors from making a recruit do personal chores, but it does ban hazing.

Retired 1st Sgt. Patricia Hernandez, a former drill instructor who served in the Marine Corps from 19902009 after three years in the Army, said a drill instructor making recruits do his personal chores would cross a line.

Drill instructors shouldnt take away from recruits allotted personal or training time without a good reason, said Hernandez, who did not review the command investigation but was told of its contents.

If we think about this in a civilian manner, it would be like doing laundry for your boss, Hernandez told Marine Corps Times.

The drill instructor at San Diego allegedly touched female recruits close to their breasts or buttocks, sometimes with the ostensible purpose of correcting heel alignment or checking their uniforms, according to the investigation.

The Recruit Training Order forbids drill instructors from touching recruits, except for purposes like correcting a recruits position or inspecting the recruits equipment.

If I can get you to do what I need you to do, I should be able to do it with my example, with my words, Hernandez told Marine Corps Times of the rule against touching recruits. What is the purpose of touching?

Three recruits said the drill instructor who was the subject of the command investigation removed the contents from their belts or pouches and reached into them. He brushed against their bodies in the process, they said.

At one point, the drill instructor told two recruits to pour water on his hands and dried his hands by wiping them up and down one of one of the pairs backs, recruits told the investigator.

Three recruits said they saw the drill instructor peer into the vents of a portable toilet while another recruit was using it. The investigation doesnt specify whether the recruit was female or male, but the alleged incident occurred while the female platoon was training nearby.

One recruit recalled that after the drill instructor found her sitting on the floor cutting loose threads off her uniform, he grabbed her by the hand and forced her to cut a loose thread off his uniform.

Multiple female recruits said he had asked them in the classroom whether they had any hot moms or sisters who would be coming to graduation. During the Crucible, the culmination of recruit training, he told them he was interested in meeting Hispanic women in particular, recruits told the investigator.

One female recruit, who planned to work in motor transport, recalled the drill instructor looked her up and down after she conveyed her career plans and said to her, Oh, Motor-T, huh? Easy job! But you mustve chosen that job to have fun with guys, huh? according to the investigation report.

Female recruits recounted the drill instructor calling them fat pigs or hippos while they were eating or about to eat.

The Recruit Training Order forbids drill instructors from giving recruits nicknames or using unprofessional language.

In a high-profile trial in July at Parris Island, South Carolina, a senior drill instructor was found not guilty of negligent homicide in connection with the 2021 death of recruit Pfc. Dalton Beals but guilty of an orders violation for calling his recruits nicknames like war pigs.

That senior drill instructor, Staff Sgt. Steven T. Smiley, was reduced in rank to sergeant and barred from reenlisting, his attorney previously told Marine Corps Times.

In this case in California, the drill instructor admitted in an interview with the investigating officer to grabbing a recruit by the head and making her do or grab laundry.

He denied brushing up against recruits breasts or buttocks and said he adjusted the equipment of male and female recruits alike. He claimed he wiped his hand off on a recruit because she had gotten mud on it.

He acknowledged asking recruits about their single or hot moms. He said he asked the question because a male recruit, whose single mother would attend graduation, previously had asked him if he wanted to become his stepdad.

Male recruits told the investigating officer the drill instructor hadnt touched them inappropriately, called them names, asked them about hot relatives or otherwise acted unprofessionally around them. One male recruit said he did notice the drill instructor was often with the female recruits and knew all their names.

The investigating officer initially examined whether the drill instructor had violated Article 120, which covers rape and sexual assault. She ultimately recommended the command consider punishing him under Article 92, which covers failure to obey an order or regulation, and Article 134, which covers a broad range of misconduct.

These types of behavior are unacceptable, the investigating officer wrote in the March investigative report, adding that the drill instructor was not an accurate representation of the instructors training the next generation of Marines.

Hernandez, the former Marine Corps drill instructor, told Marine Corps Times the standard for drill instructors behavior is high for a reason.

We have to act professionally, the retired Marine said. We are what [recruits] want to become. We set that example.
US cannot deprive China of right to development

08:35, September 14, 2023 By China Daily editorial ( Chinadaily.com.cn

Shoppers try out Huawei's Mate 60 Pro smartphones at a store in Jinhua, Zhejiang province. SHI BUFA/FOR CHINA DAILY

Politicians in Washington claimed just a few months ago that Huawei's production of 5G smartphones had come to a halt as all channels for China to access advanced chips, as well as relevant devices and technologies to enable it to make the chips, are effectually blocked by the United States.

If they truly think it is possible to thwart China's progress in technology through export controls, they will experience more such shocks as those caused by the launch of the Mate 60 Pro, Huawei's latest smartphone.

Although the 7-nanometer processor the device contains, seemingly produced by SMIC, China's top chipmaker, still lags a generation behind the 5-nanometer chips that are universal in US tech, it suffices to put Washington on notice that China will not be thwarted. Occupying the top of the global supply chains does not necessarily mean the US can obstruct other countries making breakthroughs, as if none of them can seek innovations without US know-how.

Yet instead of reflecting on the unjustness and infeasibility of the US' export controls, these anti-China politicians organize security, technology and trade experts to analyze the new 5G Kirin 9000s processor of the device to try and determine how Huawei came by such a chip following the sweeping efforts by the US to restrict China's access to it.

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said, at a news conference following the launch of the Huawei device, that the US needs "more information about precisely its character and composition" to determine if parties bypassed US restrictions on semiconductor exports to create the new chip. That means instead of rethinking the rationality of its de facto technology blockade, the US is intent on trying to find and plug the loopholes in it.

Regrettably, despite US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo's visit to China late last month, which was seen as a sign the Joe Biden administration was trying to ease tensions in bilateral trade relations, the US has conveyed an unmistakable message that it will further strengthen its China-targeted export restrictions. An anonymous US Commerce official told the media, "Let's be clear: Export controls are just one tool in the US government's toolbox to address the national security threats presented by the PRC."

Washington overestimates its own capabilities and underestimates China's. The country's fast development and its advancement in science and technology have always been realized against adversity over the past more than seven decades. The nation's determination and ability to stand on its own two feet, and make scientific and technological innovations today should never be doubted.

It is the US that refuses to accept and face fair competition with China. Washington cannot deprive other countries of their right to development. If China's opposition to coercion, bullying, containment and repression in the name of competition can be smeared as an irresponsible move to break the "rules-based order", the onus is on Washington to explain on what grounds China should resign itself to the US' arrangement.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Community members look on and hold up signs during a testy May 11 Deerfield Plan Commission meeting when Bridge Industrial representatives presented their project plans. (Gavin Good (Lake County News-Sun))

Baxter International headquarters will remain in Deerfield after a prospective buyer for the property pulled out of a potential purchase.

The 101-acre campus for the health care company has been taken off the market, according to a Baxter spokesperson.

Advertisement

Plans are underway to improve the Deerfield campus, ensuring that colleagues in business segments are seated together, CEO Joe Almeida said in a letter to employees. We are also evaluating how we can best utilize our footprint more efficiently across Northern Illinois.

Baxter's global headquarters in Deerfield, Ill. (Photo: Business Wire)

Bridge Industrial, a real estate development company, was seeking to acquire the site, annex it into Deerfield, demolish the existing structure and build an industrial business park. Opposition to the real estate development in Deerfield was strong amid residents concerns over increased vehicle emissions and traffic.

Advertisement

Attempts to reach Bridge Industrial representatives were unsuccessful.

Residents who fought hard to oppose the redevelopment were elated to learn that Bridge Industrial will not be developing the property.

We are happy to see that we were victorious in preserving the integrity of our community, said Caron Blitz, a resident of Thorngate, a 305-home development across the street from the Baxter campus. It (was) probably one of the most amazing grassroots efforts Ive certainly ever seen.

Thorngate residents started by notifying neighbors of the potential development, and then launched an educational campaign in surrounding communities. The opposition efforts quickly grew.

Blitz said she is grateful the Lake County Board was transparent throughout the process since Bridge first reached out about a potential development.

In June, the petition for redevelopment was pulled by the real estate development company one day before a town Plan Commission meeting, after actions taken by residents of Deerfield, Riverwoods and surrounding municipalities. More than 5,500 residents signed a petition pushing back against the proposed redevelopment.

Shortly after pulling the petition, Bridge representatives submitted a request for a preliminary meeting with Lake Countys Planning, Building and Development Department.

County staff met with representatives from Bridge Industrial in July and produced a comprehensive Early Assistance Report on Sept. 1 that covered rezoning needs, site access, utilities and construction, according to Eric Waggoner, director of the county department.

Advertisement

Bridge Industrial has not conveyed any future development plans to county staff, Waggoner said.

In May, an estimated 600 people attended a Plan Commission meeting where a team of Bridge Industrial representatives presented the business park plan to the commissioners and took questions, while audience members displayed signs urging action against the developers plans.

Residents filter into Deerfield High School's gymnasium on May 11 ahead of a Deerfield Plan Commission hearing. (Gavin Good (Lake County News-Sun))

An initial public hearing in April was postponed because so many people showed up that the space was considered too crowded by officials to conduct a public meeting in accordance with the Open Meetings Act.

Bridges presentation categorized two buildings as general warehouses, rather than high-cube warehousing or distribution centers, which leads to lots of idling trucks  a concern to residents near the property.

David Meek, a Highland Park-based real estate and zoning attorney, said an environmental air quality report revealed increased emissions and worsened air quality from idling diesel trucks, which hadnt been included in Bridges environmental assessment.

Meek works with a team of consultants, and the opposition groups figures drastically contrasted with Bridges assessment of traffic congestion, environmental and air quality impacts.

Advertisement

chilles@chicagotribune.com
The Mariposa County Sheriffs Office has released body camera video of a deputy-involved shooting in which a man armed with a knife was killed.

Just after 2 a.m. Saturday, deputies responded to a reported stabbing on Terrace View Lane, according to the Mariposa County Sheriffs Office. Authorities said deputies obtained a description of the alleged attacker, identified as 23-year-old Robert Logan. At about 3 a.m., deputies received information that Logan might be near the Mariposa County Health and Human Services Agency offices.

According to the sheriffs office, deputy Slenders located Logan in the parking lot area along Lemee Lane and made contact with the man, who was shirtless and holding a knife in his left hand. In the video released by the sheriffs office, Deputy Slenders can be heard instructing Logan to show his hands, lie on the ground and drop the knife. The video appears to show Logan yelling while advancing toward the deputy, who fired one shot.

Authorities said the shot struck Logan in the chest area and deputies rendered medical aid to the man and began lifesaving measures immediately after the shooting. Additional first responders including Mercy Ambulance and Cal Fire personnel arrived on the scene minutes later.

According to the sheriffs office, deputies recovered a knife with a six-inch curved blade and a dragon style handle.

Authorities said Logan was an unhoused man who had recently been staying at a residence on Terrace View Lane. Prior to the shooting, Logan was involved in an altercation with one of the residents and allegedly used a knife to stab a victim. The victim suffered puncture wounds and lacerations to his head and neck, according to the sheriffs office.

The sheriffs office said Slenders and other deputies involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave during an investigation into the shooting. Authorities said an independent investigative firm is conducting a review of the incident and an internal review of the incident is being conducted by the Mariposa County Sheriffs Office.
The highest-ranking officer in the US military has denied Donald Trumps claims that he recommended a US strike on Iran.

The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Mark Milley, pushed back on the claims made by the former president in an audio recording made in July 2021.

I can assure you that not one time have I ever recommended to attack Iran, Gen Milley told CNN.

Mr Trump made the claim during a conversation at his Bedminster golf club with biographers of his White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, which emerged during the Mar-a-Lago documents probe.

A transcript of the recording is now part of the investigation into the former presidents alleged mishandling of classified documents after he left the White House.

As president, I could have declassified, but now I cant, Mr Trump says of the document, that he claimed Gen Milley prepared for him.

During the July 2021 meeting, Mr Trump was reportedly complaining about Gen Milley in the wake of a story in The New Yorker detailing how the Army general instructed the Joint Chiefs to ensure that the outgoing president gave no illegal orders in the final days of his administration.

I dont know the document theyre talking about. Ive never seen  no ones presented me with what it is theyre talking about. So, I really still cant comment on it, Gen Milley told the news network.

Milley insists he never recommended a military attack against Iran (Getty Images)

But I can assure you that, you know, a military attack on Iran is a very, very serious undertaking. We have capabilities. We have plans  thats not particularly unusual  to comment on that. But I am not going to go further and discuss any of the details.

Mark Meadows in his book The Chiefs Chief wrote that Gen Milley urged Mr Trump to order an attack on Iran more than once during his presidency.

Gen Milley told CNNs Fareed Zakaria that he had never recommended an attack on Iran. I can tell you with certainty that this chairman never recommended a wholesale attack on Iran, Gen Milley said.

And to do that, I think would require a significant degree of risk that we may or may not want to take given the circumstances, but that that part of it didnt happen.

And Im not sure I dont know the exact quotes that Mr Meadows said, but I can assure you I know what Ive done and its not to recommend an attack on Iran.
Miami Marlins pitcher Sandy Alcantara delivers to the Washington Nationals during the during the first inning of a baseball game, Sunday, Sept. 3, 2023, in Washington. (AP Photo/Luis M. Alvarez) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

MILWAUKEE (AP)  Miami Marlins right-hander Sandy Alcantara has a sprained ulnar collateral ligament in his elbow, manager Skip Schumaker said Wednesday, casting doubt on whether last year's NL Cy Young Award winner can pitch again this season.

Schumaker did not say whether he thought Alcantara would return. Miami is fighting for a wild-card spot.

UCL injuries frequently require Tommy John ligament-replacement surgery.

Alcantaras injury was initially reported as a forearm strain after his last start on Sept. 3, when he threw 94 pitches in eight innings in a win at Washington. He said he first experienced discomfort during that outing, and he went on the injured list three days later.

Alcantara played catch Wednesday before the Marlins' game at Milwaukee, his first time throwing since the injury. He said he would be consulting with doctors but did not know what his next steps would be.

I feel so happy because today I got the opportunity to play catch, Alcantara said.

Alcantara is 7-12 with a 4.14 ERA in 28 starts. Last year, he was 14-9 with a 2.28 ERA. The two-time All-Star is 41-55 with a 3.32 ERA in seven years in the majors.

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb
The word vigilante has a negative connotation. However, Merriam-Webster says the word is of Spanish origin and means watchman or guard. Call the Boot Girls in Atlanta vigilantes if you want, because it seems apt: these two women are on a mission to remove boots from cars in their city.



Boots, those annoying, clunky metal devices that clamp onto one of your wheels and prevent the car from moving, are becoming a point of contention in Georgias capital city. Some residents are frustrated with what they say is excessive booting, and theyre finding ways around it.

After experiencing the placement of a land anchor themselves, the balaclava-wearing Boot Girls (Boot Baby and Boot Sheisty) obtained a boot key from someone who manufactured the tool, NPR reports. Then they started offering their boot removal services for $50 each, and they (and others using the boot girls theme ) seem to take orders via text and Instagram through referrals as word spreads.

Parking companies, private property, and private booting companies are vexed about this turn of events, and the City of Atlanta police department is clear about how it feels about freelance boot removal.

While owning a boot key is not illegal, here is what the public needs to know, reads the departments Facebook page . If you use a Boot Key to modify, tamper, or disengage a booting device from a vehicle, you can be charged with: Criminal Trespass, and/or Theft of Services, and/orTheft by Taking, and/or Damage to Property 2nd Degree.

Unsurprisingly, lawmakers are divided. Georgia State Senator Josh McLaurin introduced a bill that would have banned booting, but it didnt advance. He hasnt given up and plans to call for it again in the next session, advocating for paper tickets, controlled access, and towing as alternatives.



You Might Also Like
The Savannah Morning News series examining the impact of gun violence on the community focuses on the increased federal law enforcement presence.

At his Aug. 22 weekly press briefing, Savannah Mayor Van Johnson reiterated his intention to introduce a local ordinance that would penalize gun owners who leave their cars unlocked, which makes it easy for their guns to be stolen and used in the commission of a crime.

Although the final draft of the ordinance has not been written, Johnson outlined what the ordinance might entail. The legislation would require gun owners to securely store their firearms without making them visible. It would also require gun owners to report the theft or loss of a firearm within 24 hours of the discovery of the theft or loss, said Johnson. The mayor added that there will be a public awareness campaign that urges citizens to lock their cars and secure their weapons.

Its low hanging fruit, said Johnson. It is an opportunity to decrease the thefts [and the] illegal firearms. The shootings also, we believe, will decrease as well.

According to Savannah Police Department statistics as of Sept. 2, there have been 176 guns stolen out of vehicles  82% of those vehicles were unlocked. , compared to 28 in 2022, and 22 in 2021. Approximately 90% of the weapons stolen from cars in 2022 and 2021 were taken from unlocked automobiles.

More: Where do guns used in Savannah crimes come from? Data provides answers  and begs questions

More: Georgia is a key supplier in firearm smuggling pipeline, gun recoveries indicate

More: Of the crimes guns recovered in Savannah, 11% were purchased at Welsh Pawn Shop

Handguns stolen from vehicles are often later used in the commission of a crime.

'It's about accountability and responsibility'

Savannah Police Department (SPD) spokesperson Neil Penttila said SPD doesn't track which firearms stolen from vehicles eventually are used in the commission of crimes. Gun tracking data is done through the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), but even that data does not specify if the crime guns recovered were stolen.

Thus far in 2023, there have been 13 homicides, compared to 23 at this point each of the prior two years. There have also been fewer total violent crimes this year than last, but slightly more than two years ago. This year, there have been 849 total violent crimes, compared to 861 last year and 793 in 2021, according to SPD statistics.

"It's just about accountability and responsibility," said Sgt. Aaron Washington, SPD's Supervisor of Property Crimes. Of the property theft cases that involve stolen guns that Washington investigates, he said 90% come from unlocked cars. The other cases are smashed windows and bypass devices, technology that automatically unlocks most cars, said Washington.

"You don't want to make it easy for the criminal; you want to make it harder," said Washington.

In at least one aspect, however, state law handcuffs Johnson.

Georgias firearms preemption law dictates that only the state legislature can regulate possession, ownership, transport, carrying, transfer, sale, purchase, licensing, or registration of firearms or other weapons or components of firearms or other weapons.

But local governments bear much of the emotion, social and economic brunt of gun violence. We're not going to wait for the state to do what's right for Savannah to be able to address that need, Johnson said at the press briefing.

A draft of the ordinance is currently being written, Savannah Press Secretary Josh Peacock wrote in an email. After it is written and put through a legal review, said Peacock, the ordinance will be added to the City Council agenda for a first reading.

Drew Favakeh is the public safety reporter for Savannah Morning News. You can reach him at AFavakeh@savannahnow.com.

This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Savannah ordinance would penalize owners who leave guns in unlocked cars
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy issued a profane challenge to those Republican members of the House of Representatives threatening to oust him from the speakership during a closed party conference Thursday morning. While the private House GOP meeting was supposed to cover the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden, the California Republican had government funding  and frustrations with his colleagues  freshly on his mind.

"Yeah, I don't understand how members, they have no complaint about the DoD bill. But they don't want to pass it. I got a small group of members who don't want to vote for CR, don't want to vote for individual bills and don't want to vote for an Omni," McCarthy told Punchbowl News when asked about federal funding on the way in, referring to the Department of Defense, a continuing resolution and an omnibus spending bill, respectively. "I'm not quite sure what they want."

The subject of the meeting seemed to take a sharp turn as the California Republican took aim at his critics and asserted that he is not afraid of them forcing a vote to have him removed.

"Go ahead. I'm not fking scared of it. Any new speaker will do what I'm doing," one of those legislators told Politico of what they recalled the Speaker saying. "If you think you scare me because you want to file a motion to vacate, move the fing motion," McCarthy may have actually told his opponents, according to two other anonymous Republican lawmakers interviewed by the outlet.

Another source in room says this is the correct quote: If you think you scare me because you want to file a motion to vacate, move the fucking motion https://t.co/Qgw4n1JQCe  Olivia Beavers (@Olivia_Beavers) September 14, 2023
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) vented his frustration about the hard-line conservatives holding up appropriations, dropping an expletive as he dared his fiercest critics to attempt a vote to oust him.

During a closed-door conference meeting Thursday, McCarthy addressed an uptick in threats from members to call a motion to vacate the chair  a move to force a vote on ousting the Speaker.

If you want to file a motion to vacate, then file the fing motion, McCarthy said, Rep. Brian Mast (R-Fla.) recounted.

McCarthys comments follow Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) earlier this week explicitly threatening to call a motion to vacate if McCarthy does not follow through with a number of spending priorities and votes on bills that his detractors were promised in January.

And it also comes after hard-line conservatives, who have been battling with GOP leadership for months over topline numbers in spending bills, forced GOP leaders to punt consideration of a Department of Defense (DOD) appropriations bill Wednesday.

I showed frustration in here because I am frustrated, McCarthy told reporters after the meeting. Frustrated with some people in the conference.

We had the DOD appropriations bill yesterday, couldnt put it on the floor, McCarthy said. I dont have one complaint by any member of whats wrong with this bill.

Sign up for The Hills 12:30 Report newsletter

The battles are playing out against the backdrop of a potential government shutdown deadline of Sept. 30 if Congress cannot pass a stopgap government funding bill  which the House Freedom Caucus has also put demands on.

The House departs after Thursday for the weekend in observance of Rosh Hashanah.

But when we come back, were not going to leave, McCarthy said.

Gaetz fired back at McCarthy.

Instead of emotionally cursing, maybe the Speaker should just keep his word from January on balanced budgets, term limits and single-subject spending bills, Gaetz told The Hill.

Earlier this week, McCarthy referenced his apparent belief that Gaetz wants him to intervene in an open House Ethics Committee investigation into the Florida congressman.

He can threaten all he wants. I will not interject the Speaker into the independent Ethics Committee to influence it any way at all, McCarthy told reporters.

The Speaker is not the only member who is frustrated.

We dont try to air our laundry but again, you know, to that point, if somebody wants to file a motion to vacate, then file the fing motion to vacate, and thats it, Mast told reporters following the Thursday morning meeting. And stop holding up everybodys work, stop holding it, you know, over peoples head like its, you know, like, its this noose that youre going to try to get somebody to walk into.

Get to work with the conference; if you have a direction that you want to take, then step up in front of the microphone and voice what that direction is that you want to take, Mast continued. Otherwise, get the f out of the way.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), who has become a close McCarthy ally and was ousted from the Freedom Caucus over the summer, echoed that sentiment, saying that conservatives making demands should raise them with the conference  calling out some of the hard-liners for not attending the meeting.

If were going to be able to do our job, we need every single member in our conference to show up and face everyone else, and then we can work out our differences and fund the government, Greene said.

The group of conservatives who held up action on the Pentagon appropriations bill Thursday did so over demands that McCarthy present them with the topline figures for all 12 appropriations bills. The hard-liners have said they will not move forward with the government funding process until they review the numbers.

In addition, the Freedom Caucus is demanding policy conditions on any continuing resolution to fund the government past relating to the border

The hard-liners stance as of Thursday morning, though, had not softened. The conservatives are insisting that their priorities have been laid out for months.

Weve been very clear, about since July, what we thought ought to come out of each of the bills in order to make the pre-pandemic spending, Rep. Keith Self (R-Texas) said. This is not a new issue. Weve been working on it since July, and weve given them specifics.

Nothings changed from my standpoint, Rep. Bob Good (R-Va.) said. We need to pass all 12 of our bills. We need to pass them implementing our priorities from a legislative standpoint, policy standpoint. And we also need to do them at the committed 2022 levels that we agreed to in January and that we all voted for in April, and send it to the Senate, and the Senate should then do its job and avoid a government shutdown.

In response to a question about the Freedom Caucus requests, McCarthy said: We have provided those things for the last three months.

Following a rebellion over the summer from hard-line conservatives fueled by anger about funding caps in a debt limit increase bill that McCarthy negotiated with President Biden, the House GOP marked up spending bills at overall levels lower than those caps. But members of the Freedom Caucus and their allies want even lower numbers.

Meanwhile, the Democratic-controlled Senate has passed spending bills at higher levels than the House  setting up what Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) last month called a pretty big mess.

McCarthys goal, he said, is to pass all 12 appropriations bills and then get into negotiations with the Senate about spending levels.

McCarthy also warned against a government shutdown, in response to some conservatives downplaying the consequences of one and arguing that Republicans could use it as leverage against Democrats in a spending fight.

I dont think its productive to have a government shutdown during that time, McCarthy said. I dont know who wins and I dont know how that  watching the shutdowns before  how is that productive to get the objectives that you want to achieve for the American public?

Updated at 11:30 a.m. ET

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A faux facade of a mausoleum crypt is the design inspiration for the entrance to Massacre Manor, a pop-up walk-through haunted house experience created by brothers Tom and Donald Plummer of Crown Point and a favorite fright fixture Oct. 13 and 14 at Wickedly Whiting. (Philip Potempa/Post-Tribune)

One of the scariest aspects of creating your own haunted house as a spooky amusement attraction is the cost of storing all of the frightening figures and infrastructure used to convey the fearful experience.

Prior to the pandemic, we just rented a couple of huge storage units, said 33-year-old Tom Plummer, one half of the brotherly duo from Crown Point as the proprietors of Massacre Manor Haunted House.

Advertisement

When our haunted house had to be shut down for two years because of COVID, we got scared and closed out the storage units and moved everything to our parents garage and storage rooms of our friends.

From a dream that started 12 years ago to a nightmare of two years of haunting hiatus, Tom and brother Donald, 35, both fought their fears and forged ahead and reinvented their Massacre Manor Haunted House. Now their brand is a transportable pop-up walk-through haunted house experience which was unveiled in 2022 at Whitings weekend fright festival Wickedly Whiting.

Advertisement

In October, the Plummer pair are returning for the 2023 Wickedly Whiting Oct. 13 and 14 and beaming with menacing promise that their $7 admission attraction is bigger and better.

We are the only haunted house attraction at Wickedly Whiting, which puts even more expectations on us to keep expanding our scare and shock factor with new features, Tom said.

Because we have a Friday the 13th date in Oct. 23, we had quite a few requests for bookings for that same weekend. But because it takes so much time to set up and transport, our primary October focus is just on that Whiting weekend so we hope we see lots of eager explorers ready for new surprises around every corner.

Massacre Manor Haunted House is comprised of 40 transportable walls, tents, intricate and ornate creepy facades and structures to surround an expansive eye-popping array of menacing full-size ghouls, ghosts and specters and sinister props. Fog, lighting, sound effects and tech trickery provide the macabre mood-setting atmosphere.

Our Massacre Manor layout includes a cemetery area, a medieval torture room, a crazed clowns room and a sensory deprivation hallway as some of our more interesting highlights, Tom said.

The entire walk-through adventure spans about 15 minutes from start to finish.

Tom said during his decade of working with his brother Donald on the design of Massacre Manor, they have found much of the design and creation of new scare wares involves what Tom describes as a fine line of discerning the phobias and internal demons live in the shadows, minds and memories of their potential haunted house patrons.

There is definitely a certain amount of gore with our space, and thats true of most of todays haunted houses, so only each individual patron knows of the appropriate age and their way to measure whats frightening fun, Tom said.

Advertisement

We dont want to offend others, but at the same time, we are always searching for what plays on the fears of many people, maybe from childhood, or maybe right now. For example, we have a pair of cloaked prop figures who look very much like a ghostly nun and phantom priest. For some guests, these two might not symbolize much. But for others, they definitely get attention and stares.

The newest feature for Massacre Manor unveiled for October 2023 is what the Plummer brothers describe as a zombie outbreak area.

We are very proud of our new zombie outbreak maze created from a configuration of lots and lots of chain-link fencing, Tom said.

Weve added plenty of extra fog and some very weird lighting to this zombie outbreak encounter area for patrons to wade through and it really creates a very intense opportunity.

The following are some of the haunted house attractions scattered throughout Northwest Indiana for the spooky season.

Cedar Point

Knights of Columbus Haunted Forest: Oct. 13-28 at 13039 Wicker Ave., Cedar Lake. Hours are 7-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Tickets: $12. 219-232-6091; Hauntedforestnwi.com.

Advertisement

Spanning the wooded area behind Knights of Columbus Hall, theres also a Not-so-Scary Haunted Forest option for kids is from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 19 and noon to 3 p.m. Oct. 22, which is free for children. New scary structures have been added along the trail with creatures and characters awaiting inside and out.

Crown Point

Haunted Hills Haunted Attractions: Sept. 30-Nov. 4 at 7611 E. Lincoln Highway, Crown Point. Hours are 6:30 p.m.-midnight Fridays and Saturdays and 6:30-10 p.m. Sundays Sept. 30-Oct. 29 and 6:30-11 p.m. Oct. 30 and 31, and special Fall Festival hours of 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 21. Final Fright is 6:30-11 p.m. Nov. 4. At. Tickets: $25-$55 and a $5 parking fee. 219-669-4124; Hauntedhillshauntedattractions.com.

As guests stroll the property or await to enter, there are forbidding creatures stalking in the scare zone to encounter and excitement along The Mayhem Midway with food, games and creepy vendor merchandise all themed with a spooky carnival-style landscape.

Valparaiso

MAACabre Haunted Attraction: Oct. 13-21 at MAAC Foundation First Responder Training Facility, 4203 Montdale Park Drive, Valparaiso. Hours are 6:30-9:30 p.m. Oct. 13-14, 20-21. Kids show from 1 to 3 p.m. Oct. 15. Tickets: $20-$35; general admission, fast pass. Kids show $5. 708-334-0878; BogathyFrightProductions.com.

Eerie themed-rooms are spread out over two levels and the popular, heart-pounding virtual reality zombie attack simulator also returns for the 2023 season. Food trucks on property provide concessions and a VIP Pass allows guest to bypass lines.

Whiting

Massacre Manor at Wickedly Whiting: Oct. 13-14 at 1335 119th St., Whiting. Hours are 5-11 p.m. Oct. 13 and 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Oct. 14. Tickets: $7. 219-680-9850 or facebook.com and search for Massacre Manor in Crown Point.

Advertisement

In addition to returning favorite scary rooms like crazed clowns room, torture chamber, cemetery landscape and sensory deprivation hall, a zombie outbreak maze is unveiled for the torment delight of visitors in 2023.

Philip Potempa is a freelance reporter for The Post-Tribune.
(The Hill)  House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) vented his frustration about the hardline conservatives holding up appropriations, dropping an expletive as he dared his fiercest critics to attempt a vote to oust him.

During a closed-door conference meeting Thursday, McCarthy addressed an uptick in threats from members to call a motion to vacate the chair  a move to force a vote on ousting the speaker.

If you want to file a motion to vacate, then file the fing motion, McCarthy said, Rep. Brian Mast (R-Fla.) recounted.

McCarthys comments follow Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) earlier this week explicitly threatening to call a motion to vacate if McCarthy does not follow through with a number of spending priorities and votes on bills that his detractors were promised in January.

It also comes after hardline conservatives, who have been battling with GOP leadership for months over topline numbers in spending bills, forced GOP leaders to punt consideration of a Department of Defense (DOD) appropriations bill Wednesday.

I showed frustration in here because I am frustrated, McCarthy told reporters after the meeting. Frustrated with some people in the conference.

We had the DOD appropriations bill yesterday, couldnt put it on the floor, McCarthy said. I dont have one complaint by any member of whats wrong with this bill.

The battles are playing out against the backdrop of a potential government shutdown deadline of Sept. 30 if Congress cannot pass a stopgap government funding bill  which the House Freedom Caucus has also put demands on.

The House departs after Thursday for the weekend in observance of Rosh Hashanah.

But when we come back, were not going to leave, McCarthy said.

Gaetz says McCarthy lying, in response to accusations hes colluding with Swalwell

Gaetz fired back at McCarthy.

Instead of emotionally cursing, maybe the speaker should just keep his word from January on balanced budgets, term limits and single-subject spending bills, Gaetz told The Hill.

Earlier this week, McCarthy referenced his apparent belief that Gaetz wants him to intervene in an open House Ethics Committee investigation into the Florida congressman.

He can threaten all he wants. I will not interject the speaker into the independent Ethics Committee to influence it any way at all, McCarthy told reporters.

The speaker is not the only member who is frustrated.

We dont try to air our laundry but again, you know, to that point, if somebody wants to file a motion to vacate, then file the fing motion to vacate, and thats it, Mast told reporters following the Thursday morning meeting. And stop holding up everybodys work, stop holding it, you know, over peoples head like its, you know, like, its this noose that youre going to try to get somebody to walk into.

Get to work with the conference; if you have a direction that you want to take, then step up in front of the microphone and voice what that direction is that you want to take, Mast continued. Otherwise, get the f out of the way.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), who has become a close McCarthy ally and was ousted from the Freedom Caucus over the summer, echoed that sentiment, saying that conservatives making demands should raise them with the conference  calling out some of the hardliners for not attending the meeting.

If were going to be able to do our job, we need every single member in our conference to show up and face everyone else, and then we can work out our differences and fund the government, Greene said.

The group of conservatives who held up action on the Pentagon appropriations bill Thursday did so over demands that McCarthy present them with the topline figures for all 12 appropriations bills. The hard-liners have said they will not move forward with the government funding process until they review the numbers.

In addition, the Freedom Caucus is demanding policy conditions on any continuing resolution to fund the government past relating to the border

The hardliners stance as of Thursday morning, though, had not softened. The conservatives are insisting that their priorities have been laid out for months.

Weve been very clear, about since July, what we thought ought to come out of each of the bills in order to make the pre-pandemic spending, Rep. Keith Self (R-Texas) said. This is not a new issue. Weve been working on it since July, and weve given them specifics.

Nothings changed from my standpoint, Rep. Bob Good (R-Va.) said. We need to pass all 12 of our bills. We need to pass them implementing our priorities from a legislative standpoint, policy standpoint. And we also need to do them at the committed 2022 levels that we agreed to in January and that we all voted for in April, and send it to the Senate, and the Senate should then do its job and avoid a government shutdown.

Sign up for The Hills 12:30 Report newsletter

In response to a question about the Freedom Caucus requests, McCarthy said: We have provided those things for the last three months.

Following a rebellion over the summer from hardline conservatives fueled by anger about funding caps in a debt limit increase bill that McCarthy negotiated with President Joe Biden, the House GOP marked up spending bills at overall levels lower than those caps. But members of the Freedom Caucus and their allies want even lower numbers.

Meanwhile, the Democratic-controlled Senate has passed spending bills at higher levels than the House  setting up what Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) last month called a pretty big mess.

McCarthys goal, he said, is to pass all 12 appropriations bills and then get into negotiations with the Senate about spending levels.

McCarthy also warned against a government shutdown, in response to some conservatives downplaying the consequences of one and arguing that Republicans could use it as leverage against Democrats in a spending fight.

I dont think its productive to have a government shutdown during that time, McCarthy said. I dont know who wins and I dont know how that  watching the shutdowns before  how is that productive to get the objectives that you want to achieve for the American public?

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
Kevin McCarthy lashed out at House Republicans who are threatening to depose him as speaker and dared them to make a move against him.

During a caucus meeting, Mr McCarthy dared conservatives to file a motion to vacate the chair, which would trigger a no-confidence vote for the speaker, The Hill reported.

Rep Brian Mast (R-FL) told reporters that Mr McCarthy went into a profane tirade against Republicans who oppose him.

If you want to file a motion to vacate, then file the f***ing motion, Mr McCarthy reportedly said.

Later, Mr McCarthy explained why he made the remarks

I showed frustration in here because I am frustrated, he said. Frustrated with some people in the conference.

On Wednesday, House leadership pulled a planned vote on a Department of Defense appropriations bill.

We had the DOD appropriations bill yesterday, couldnt put it on the floor, he said. I dont have one complaint by any member of whats wrong with this bill.

Earlier in the week, Mr McCarthy had announced that the House of Representatives would open an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden despite the fact there is little evidence that the president committed any crimes.

But Rep Matt Gaetz (R-FL) criticised the impeachment inquiry and said it was not enough.

This is a baby step following weeks of pressure from House conservatives to do more, he said. In a call with reporters, Mr Gaetz threatened that if Mr McCarthy put forward a continuing resolution, a type of stopgap funding bill, to keep the government open as the House negotiates appropriations bills, he would file a motion to vacate.

If Kevin McCarthy puts a continuing resolution on the floor, it's going to be shot-chaser, he said. Continuing resolution, motion to vacate.

Mr Gaetz was one of a handful of Republicans who opposed Mr McCarthys bid to become speaker on every one of the 15 rounds of votes earlier this year.

In response to Mr McCarthys words, Mr Gaetz criticised the speaker.

Instead of emotionally cursing, maybe the speaker should just keep his word from January on balanced budgets, term limits and single-subject spending bills, he told The Hill.
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the Ukrainian Navy carried out a strike on Yevpatoriia in occupied Crimea overnight on Sept. 14, several Ukrainian media outlets reported, citing sources in the SBU.

An attack by Ukrainian drones and Neptune missiles allegedly destroyed a modern S-400 Triumph air defense system, worth $1.2 billion, an unnamed SBU source told Ukrainska Pravda.

According to the New Voice news outlet, in the first phase of the attack, SBU-operated drones hit the system's radars and antennas, effectively blinding its "eyes."

Subsequently, two Neptune missiles launched by the Navy hit the S-400 launchers, the New Voice said, citing its sources in the Security Service.

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us

In the early hours of Sept. 14, Yevpatoriia locals reported powerful explosions in the coastal city, including areas where Russian military units were stationed.

Moscow claimed that its air defenses shot down 11 drones over the occupied peninsula.

Natalia Humeniuk, the spokesperson of Ukraine's Southern Operational Command, pointed out that many Russian military facilities, including an airfield, are located in Yevpatoriia, making it a legitimate target.

However, she did not say explicitly whether Ukrainian forces were behind the strike.

On Aug. 23, the Ukrainian military reported that another S-400 system had been destroyed near the village of Olenivka on Cape Tarkhankut in occupied Crimea.

This is the second consecutive strike reported against occupied Crimea in the past two days. Yesterday on Sept. 13, an attack against a Sevastopol shipyard hit two Russian military vessels  a landing craft, and a submarine  and damaged the port's infrastructure.

Read also: Military intelligence: Strike on shipyard in Sevastopol damages 2 Russian vessels

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
OSINT researchers posted a satellite image of the Triumph S-400 Russian air defence system near Yevpatoriia in occupied Crimea, which was allegedly destroyed in the morning attack.

Source: Krym.Realii (Crimea.Realities, a project by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty), referring to a satellite image posted by Osinttechnical researcher

Details: The image was taken two weeks ago. It shows a Russian anti-aircraft missile system (S-400) near Yevpatoriia.

Osinttechnical

Update: According to the Osint analyst, the location of this system was posted online last year by a Russian tourist.

Background:

Explosions rang out in occupied Yevpatoriia in Crimea on the morning of 14 September, with the Russian Defence Ministry reporting a drone attack on Crimea and an attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet patrol ship Sergei Kotov by uncrewed surface vessels (USV).

Ukrainska Pravdas sources in the Security Service of Ukraine said that their military counterintelligence and the Ukrainian Navy conducted a unique special operation near Yevpatoriia on the night of 13-14 September, destroying the Russian air defence system Triumf worth US$1.2 billion.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Former President Donald Trump speaks at the South Dakota Republican Party Monumental Leaders rally Friday, Sept. 8, 2023, in Rapid City, S.D. (AP Photo/Toby Brusseau) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

NEW YORK (AP)  When Donald Trump sat down with Megyn Kelly for a satellite radio interview that aired on Thursday, it was a long way  in time and circumstance  from their most memorable encounter in the summer of 2015.

That was when Kelly, then a Fox News star, infuriated the future president at a GOP debate with a question about his treatment of women. He bitterly attacked her after the debate, and his supporters joined in, leaving her worried about threats.

Kelly, who later worked at NBC News, is now resurrecting her career as a journalist-commentator, with a podcast that was picked up as a two-hour weekday show on SiriusXM satellite radio. Sirius last week announced it had signed Kelly to a deal that extends through the 2024 election and beyond.

Do the bad feelings linger?

All that nonsense between us, Kelly said this summer, is under the bridge.

It seemed that way through the mostly friendly, occasionally challenging interview taped this week at Trump's Bedminster, New Jersey, home. There was only a brief, quickly brushed aside mention of that moment during the debate eight years ago.

That was a bad question, Trump said in the interview.

That was a great question, Kelly responded.

No, it was a nasty question, he said.

It was awesome, Kelly said before quickly pivoting to tell him, You handled it well. Your poll numbers went up. Let's move past that.

A startling 24 million people tuned in to Fox in August 2015 for the first Republican primary debate of the 2016 election season.

Setting up one of her questions as a moderator, Kelly said to Trump, "You've called women you don't like fat pigs, dogs, slobs and disgusting animals.

Trump interrupted with what he hoped would be a laugh line.

Only Rosie O'Donnell, he said.

Kelly pressed on. For the record, it was more than Rosie O'Donnell, she said. Your Twitter account has several disparaging comments about women's looks. You once told a contestant on Celebrity Apprentice it would be a pretty picture to see her on her knees. Does that sound to you like the temperament of a man we should elect as president?

After the debate, in the middle of the night, Trump began going after Kelly on Twitter and later in interviews, including one on CNN in which he said, You can see there was blood coming out of her eyes, blood coming out of her wherever.

Trump later boycotted another debate telecast by Fox because Kelly was one of the moderators. Fox News chief Roger Ailes called on Trump to apologize, although Kelly said in a later interview that Ailes was reluctant to fight back against attacks on Kelly by the Breitbart website for fear of alienating Fox's audience.

It was a rough time.

It's not that I'm worried that somebody is going to shoot me down, Kelly later said in an interview with CBS News. But I do worry that somebody is going to try to hurt me in the presence of my children.

Kelly left Fox for NBC News, an ill fit where she was taken off the air following an uproar when she suggested that it was OK for white people to wear blackface on Halloween. NBC and Kelly negotiated a divorce agreement in January 2019, in the second year of a three-year contract.

Kelly went into business for herself, starting a podcast in September 2020. A year later, SiriusXM picked up her show, and video began being shown on YouTube.

She has built her show into one of the highest-ranked in Chartable's list of news podcasts. She has also had 2024 presidential candidates Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Nikki Haley, Tim Scott, Chris Christie and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on her show.

Some of her questions to Trump in the interview airing Thursday were friendly, like when she said, Can you believe they never put (former first lady Melania Trump ) on the cover of Vogue? They put (White House press secretary) Karine Jean-Pierre there.

She challenged Trump at a number of points, such as why he didn't end birthright citizenship when he was president and why he didn't remove COVID-era medical adviser Anthony Fauci, a villain to many conservatives, from his job.

She asked him about complying with a subpoena in the documents case against him.

This is very scary for you, she said. Youre facing left-wing judges. Youre facing some likely left-wing juries, at least three out of four. There is a realistic chance of you going to prison. Can you see that happening?

Kelly was notably silent, however, when Trump made false accusations about a lot of fake ballots in the 2020 presidential election.

She said later that if she constantly fact-checked Trump, the interview would go five hours. You can't do that as anchor. You're going to bore the people at home and you're going to waste valuable time.

The goal of the interview was not to emerge with Trump's jugular, she said.

I give him a ton of credit, she said. You tell me. Could Joe Biden have done that? Could Joe Biden have done five minutes of that, just five minutes?
Emilio Gutierrez Soto and son Oscar reunite after being released from detention on July 26, 2018. Father and son fled Mexico in 2008 after Gutierrez Soto said his reporting on the Mexican military led to death threats. His asylum request was approved this month. Credit: Julian Aguilar/The Texas Tribune

A Mexican journalist who fled Chihuahua to the United States after he received death threats over his stories about military corruption has won his political asylum case after a 15-year legal fight and two stints in federal custody.

Emilio Gutierrez Soto, who now works at a farm in Michigan, and his son Oscar fled their country in 2008 when Gutierrez Sotos reporting led to threats against him by members of the Mexican military. Robert Hough, an immigration judge in El Paso, denied Gutierrez Sotos asylum request twice, but on Sept. 5, a three-judge appeals panel said Hough was clearly erroneous.

In a five-page opinion, the panel said that Gutierrez Sotos subjective fear of persecution upon return to Mexico is objectively reasonable and well-founded. The panel also wrote that Gutierrez Soto came to the attention of the Mexican military because he wrote articles that were critical of and expose the corruption of the military.

Gutierrez Soto had missed phone calls from his lawyer. So Lynette Clemetson, director of the Knight-Wallace Fellowship at the University of Michigan and a close friend, drove to the farm where Gutierrez Soto works to deliver the news in person.

You won, Clemetson told him.

Won what? he responded.

Your asylum case, she said.

It took a few seconds for him to realize what he was hearing.

My first reaction was to be in disbelief, he said. Then it sunk in that it was a reality and I was in shock.

For asylum-seekers, getting a resolution in their asylum cases takes an average of five years  and a majority lose their cases. Gutierrez Sotos case landed before Hough, who has a 95.6% denial rate, the highest among El Pasos six immigration judges, according to the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse, or TRAC, at Syracuse University.

Emilio Gutierrez Soto in a photo taken on Sept. 13, 2023 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Guitierrez Soto was granted eligibility for asylum, 15 years after crossing into the United States seeking refuge. Credit: Photo by Lynette Clemetson

Now that he is out of his long legal limbo and legally living in the U.S., Gutierrez Soto said he needs to figure out, at 60, what his future will look like. For now, he plans to continue working on the farm  he said he promised his bosses that he would finish some projects before the end of the year.

His son Oscar, who was 15 when they fled Chihuahua, is now 30 and recently married a U.S. citizen  he can receive legal status as the spouse of a citizen, so the asylum ruling no longer applies to him.

What can you do when youre in love? Gutierrez Soto said in a phone interview. You simply cant stand in the way of life.

For more than a decade, the father and son were in legal limbo and couldnt make long-term plans because they could be deported at any time.

It hurt me, he said, but I dont regret leaving Mexico so I could protect my sons life.

Journalists from Canada to Peru offered their support while he fought to stay in the U.S., including the National Press Club and student journalists at the University of Michigan, who helped translate over 100 of Gutierrez Sotos news articles into English to use as evidence in his asylum case.

As Martin Luther King, Jr., once said, The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice. We saw this with Emilio, said National Press Club President Eileen OReilly. On behalf of the many past presidents, press freedom team and members of the Press Club who continued the fight during Emilios long ordeal, I praise the Board of Immigration Appeals for its decision and urge immigration officials to expedite asylum requests for the many journalists who are forced to leave their homes to continue their very important work.

Gutierrez Soto started his journalism career as a photographer and later began to write briefs for newspapers in Ciudad Juarez. Before long, he was covering crime and corruption in one of the countrys most violent cities.

In 2005, while working for a newspaper in a city 120 miles southwest of El Paso, Gutierrez Soto wrote a story about a group of Mexican soldiers who had robbed a group of migrants  then wrote a follow-up story about the threat he received from the Army about the first article.

In May 2008, soldiers carrying machine guns raided his home, claiming they were searching for drugs  they didnt find any. A source later told Gutierrez Soto that the military wanted him dead.

That episode scared Gutierrez Soto, who in June 2008 fled with his teenage son to a U.S. port of entry in New Mexico, where Gutierrez Soto asked for asylum.

They were initially held in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody in El Paso for several months before being released. They lived with friends in El Paso and in New Mexico before moving to Michigan where Gutierrez Soto was awarded a yearlong fellowship. He also wrote briefly for a Spanish-language newspaper, El Diario de El Paso, and freelanced for national outlets in the U.S.

But mostly he focused on pursuing his asylum case and giving speeches across the country about the dangers that Mexican journalists face when they write about government corruption, he said.

Nine years later, Hough denied their asylum request in July 2017, saying he didnt believe Gutierrez Soto was a journalist. Gutierrez Soto appealed the decision.

In October 2017, he received a press freedom award from the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., where he made some critical comments about the U.S. immigration process. That December, he and his son made a routine check-in with immigration officials in El Paso and were arrested and processed for deportation  while their appeal of Houghs ruling was still pending.

The National Press Club provided legal support to the father and son because it believed immigration authorities retaliated against Gutierrez Soto over his comments about the U.S. immigration system, according to a news release by the organization.

After the Press Club intervened, the Board of Immigration Appeals in May 2018 asked Hough to reconsider the case because Gutierrez Soto had presented new evidence. Two months later, father and son were released from immigration custody.

In February 2019, Hough again denied their asylum request, saying any fears that Gutierrez Soto had were merely speculative since it had been a decade since he fled Mexico, according to an Associated Press story.

Gutierrez Soto appealed that decision as well.

In 2018, he was awarded the Knight-Wallace Fellowship, which took him to the University of Michigan. The one-year fellowship, awarded to accomplished journalists, included on-campus housing and a $70,000 stipend. At the end of that year, Gutierrez Soto began working at the farm in Ann Arbor where he has lived ever since 2018  and where his son also lived until he met his future wife.

Now that the appeals panel has granted him asylum, Gutierrez Soto can apply for permanent residency, also known as a green card, after a year.

I remember my son once told me: We came together, we leave together, he said.

Instead, they will both be able to permanently stay together in the U.S., he said.

The full program is now LIVE for the 2023 Texas Tribune Festival, happening Sept. 21-23 in Austin. Explore the program featuring more than 100 unforgettable conversations coming to TribFest. Panel topics include the biggest 2024 races and whats ahead, how big cities in Texas and around the country are changing, the integrity of upcoming elections and so much more. See the full program.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  MGM Resorts Internationals website remains offline Thursday morning as it enters its fourth day trying to recover from a massive cyber attack. The company, which is the largest casino operator on the Las Vegas Strip with 10 resorts, issued a statement at 5 a.m. on X, the platform formally known as Twitter.

We continue to work diligently to resolve our cybersecurity issue while addressing individual guest needs promptly. We couldnt do this without the thousands of incredible employees who are committed to guest services and support from our loyal customers. Thank you for your continued patience. MGM Resorts International

On Wednesday, a group known as BlackCat took credit for the attack, saying a 10-minute phone call was responsible for compromising the resorts systems.

MGM Resorts hack by ransomware group, social media post says

The attack continues to impact the companys website, reservation systems, and some gaming machines and has left guests frustrated.

What are we paying for? Guests share continued fallout over MGM Resorts hack

The MGM Resorts International website has the following message for how people can make restaurant reservations and purchase tickets to shows and other events. MGM Resorts is also offering to waive the change and cancellation fees for guests arriving Sept. 13  17.

We apologize for the inconvenience. For restaurant options and reservations, please download the MGM Rewards App. To make a reservation for a resident artist, production show, or attraction please visit Ticketmaster.com To purchase tickets for UFC, Las Vegas Aces, Vegas Golden Knights or a concert event at an Arena please visit AXS.com For hotel reservations arriving September 13-17, 2023, we understand your travel plans may have changed, so we are waiving change and cancellations fees. Thank you for your loyalty to MGM Resorts and we look forward to welcoming you soon. MGM Resorts International website

The FBI is investigating the ransomware attack and Governor Joe Lombardo and the Nevada Gaming Control Board report they are monitoring the cybersecurity incident.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
LANSING, Mich.  Several Michigan tribal leaders and tribal staff members were on hand Thursday morning in Lansing, Michigan, for a ceremonial signing of Senate Bills 137 and 138 by Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer . The bills amend the Guardianship Assistance Act to provide for guardianship assistance program (GAP) eligibility for guardianship arrangements made by tribal and out-of-state courts.

The guardianship assistance program provides financial support to guardians of eligible children, with the goal of ensuring a stable, permanent home for children who may otherwise remain in foster care until they are 18 years of age.

The actual bills were signed on July 11, 2023, but Whitmer wanted to showcase tribal collaboration and bipartisanship in the Senate that brought the bills to fruition.

Previously, under the GAP, guardians were only eligible for payments if the childs removal proceedings started in state courts. The bills amend the states GAP so that legal guardians designated by out-of-state or tribal court orders would be eligible for financial assistance. Finally, the bills prescribe certain case service plan requirements and guardianship arrangements for siblings.

Not only did these bills improve the lives of tribal citizens, they also support tribal self- governance and sovereignty," Gov. Whitmer said. "This is a priority that unites us from the Upper Peninsula to Southeastern Michigan."

Michigan State Senator Jeff Irwin (D), a tribal citizen of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, and State Senator John Damoose (R) introduced the legislation.

"It's just fundamentally important that we respect the rights of all people equally here in the state of Michigan that obviously includes tribal communities," Irwin said to Native News Online. "So when I found out that there were families who were not getting the same support that they would have if their guardianship had their cases been moving through a state court, specifically because their guardianship was with their tribal court, that's just wrong, and we needed to correct that wrong,

Irwin said he became aware of the situation after he was approached by tribal leaders who said this is a wrong that needs to be corrected.

I really appreciate the tribal leaders who brought this up to legislators and said, Look, this is wrong that needs to be righted. And I'm really appreciative of my colleague, Senator Damoose, who was willing to work with me in a bipartisan way to get this done. And the governor and her team that helped shepherd us through relatively quickly and get it signed, Irwin said.

Bay Mills Indian Community President Whitney Gravelle told Native News Online that the legislation was initiated from a case that was in her tribes court.

What we were seeing is after years of having children in a safe guardianship and being able to work towards repairing relationships with their family and with their parents, that it was a guardianship that was still going to be able to provide them the most protection, Granville said.

As we were discussing how we would be able to move this case towards guardianship out of foster care, we realized that the way the system was currently structured, was actually not beneficial in the sense that our tribal families would not receive any type of guardianship assistance in order to be able to take care of their families. So as we were talking about it, we realized the only thing to do was to actually change the law and change the legislation.

Damoose also sees the bills as correcting a wrong.

Without this assistance, many cannot afford to step into the guardianship role, causing children to be placed in foster care instead," Damoose said. "These bills seek to right a wrong and help kids stay connected to their family and communities. The simple goal is to achieve a solution that is in the best interest of the children.

About the Author: "Levi \"Calm Before the Storm\" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print\/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at levi@nativenewsonline.net."

Contact: levi@nativenewsonline.net
Proteins, the natural molecules that carry out key cellular functions within the body, are the building blocks of all diseases. Characterizing proteins can reveal the mechanisms of a disease, including ways to slow it or potentially reverse it, while creating proteins can lead to entirely new classes of drugs and therapeutics.

But the current process for designing proteins in the lab is costly -- both from a computational and human resource standpoint. It entails coming up with a protein structure that could plausibly perform a specific task inside the body, then finding a protein sequence -- the sequence of amino acids that make up a protein -- likely to "fold" into that structure. (Proteins must correctly fold into three-dimensional shapes to carry out their intended function.)

It doesn't necessarily have to be this complicated.

This week, Microsoft introduced a general-purpose framework, EvoDiff, that the company claims can generate "high-fidelity," "diverse" proteins given a protein sequence. Different from other protein-generating frameworks, EvoDiff doesn't require any structural information about the target protein, cutting out what's typically the most laborious step.

Available in open source, EvoDiff could be used to create enzymes for new therapeutics and drug delivery methods as well as new enzymes for industrial chemical reactions, Microsoft senior researcher Kevin Yang says.

"We envision that EvoDiff will expand capabilities in protein engineering beyond the structure-function paradigm towards programmable, sequence-first design," Yang, one of the co-creators of EvoDiff, told TechCrunch in an email interview. "With EvoDiff, we're demonstrating that we may not actually need structure, but rather that 'protein sequence is all you need' to controllably design new proteins."

Core to the EvoDiff framework is a 640-million parameter model trained on data from all different species and functional classes of proteins. ("Parameters" are the parts of an AI model learned from training data and essentially define the skill of the model on a problem -- in this case generating proteins.) The data to train the model was sourced from the OpenFold data set for sequence alignments and UniRef50, a subset of data from UniProt, the database of protein sequence and functional information maintained by the UniProt consortium.

EvoDiff is a diffusion model, similar in architecture to many modern image-generating models such as Stable Diffusion and DALL-E 2. EvoDiff learns how to gradually subtract noise from a starting protein made almost entirely of noise, moving it closer -- slowly, step by step -- to a protein sequence.

Microsoft EvoDiff

The process by which EvoDiff generates proteins. Image Credits: Microsoft EvoDiff

Diffusion models have been increasingly applied to domains outside of image generation, from conjuring up designs for novel proteins, like EvoDiff, to creating music and even synthesizing speech.

"If there's one thing to take away [from EvoDiff], I think it'd be this idea that we can -- and should -- do protein generation over sequence because of the generality, scale and modularity that we're able to achieve," Microsoft senior researcher Ava Amini, another co-contributor on EvoDiff, said via email. "Our diffusion framework gives us the ability to do that and also to control how we design these proteins to meet specific functional goals."

To Amini's point, EvoDiff can not only create new proteins but fill in the "gaps" in an existing protein design, so to speak. Provided a part of a protein that binds to another protein, the model can generate a protein amino acid sequence around that part that meets a set of criteria, for example.

Because EvoDiff designs proteins in the "sequence space" rather than the structure of proteins, it can also synthesize "disordered proteins" that dont end up folding into a final three-dimensional structure. Like normal functioning proteins, disordered proteins play important roles in biology and disease, like enhancing or decreasing other protein activity.

Now, it should be noted that the research behind EvoDiff hasn't been peer reviewed -- at least not yet. Sarah Alamdari, a data scientist at Microsoft who contributed to the project, admits that there's "a lot more scaling work" to be done before the framework can be used commercially.

"This is just a 640-million-parameter model, and we may see improved generation quality if we scale up to billions of parameters," Alamdari said via email. "While we demonstrated some coarse-grained strategies, to achieve even more fine-grained control, we would want to condition EvoDiff on text, chemical information or other ways to specify the desired function."

As a next step, the EvoDiff team plans to test the proteins that the model generated in the lab to determine whether they're viable. If they turn out to be, they'll begin work on the next generation of the framework.
A 4-year-old Gary boy shot and injured himself late Tuesday afternoon after getting a hold of a parents unsecured gun.

Gary Police were sent at around 5:26 p.m. Sept.r 12 to Methodist Hospitals Northlake campus for the incident, which occurred in an apartment in the 1900 block of Burr Street, Gary Police Spokesman Cmdr. Sam Roberts said in an email Wednesday. The boys father, 25, said the boy found the unsecured gun inside a purse while he was watching TV in a bedroom and the childs mother was taking a shower, Roberts said.

Advertisement

Once he heard the gun fire, the boys mother rushed him to the hospital, Roberts said. Theres no word on his condition.

The shooting is the second time in two weeks a child 5 and under has gotten ahold of an unsecured firearm. Edan Oliver Johnson, 5, of Chicago, died of a single gunshot wound, the office August 30, the Post-Tribune previously reported.

Advertisement

Roberts said in an email September 1 that the child was visiting relatives in the 2400 block of Filmore Street. A 32-year-old man who police detained at the scene told them hed returned with the homeowners permission to the house early Wednesday to check on the boy and a 17-year-old girl, also from Chicago.

When he came in, he said he took his handgun off his person before falling asleep, Roberts said.

Around 8 a.m., the man said he was awakened by a loud noise and found the boy shot, Roberts said. The witness told police he then drove the boy to the hospital, where he died of his injuries.

No charges have been filed against the man as of Friday, and police are still investigating, Roberts said Wednesday.

Anyone with information about Tuesdays incident is asked to call the Violent Crimes Unit at (219) 881-1210.

Michelle L. Quinn is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
Mike Pence refused to say if he would dine alone with a female vice president during a town hall debate in Chicago on Wednesday.

The Republican presidential candidate, 64, awkwardly demurred when quizzed on the issue by NewsNation moderator Leland Vittert, as his wife Karen Pence watched on from the audience.

One of the things that has been said about how you conduct your personal life is you will not eat alone or meet alone with a woman, Mr Vittert said, referring to remarks in an infamous 2002 profile of Ms Pence in The Hill, that resurfaced in 2017 when he was vice president.

How would that work out if you had a female vice president?

Mr Pence replied with an ironic smile: Thats a very clever question. It really is.

The evangelical Christian told the audience that it was a promise that my wife and I made to one another that wasnt controversial until after he was elected to the vice presidency.

Mike Pence dodged a question about whether he would eat dinner alone with a female vice president during a NewsNation town hall (NewsNation)

When I was first elected to Congress, I did an interview about the fact that we kept our family close in public service. Somebody asked us about some of the promises weve made to one another, and I remember I said, Well I promised her that I wouldnt dine alone with a woman thats not my wife, he said.

Somebody unearthed that quote and it became quite an issue.

The unearthed quote, along with a disputed claim that he referred to Ms Pence as mother, led to unfair criticisms from liberals and sections of the media, Mr Pence added.

Karen Pence watches on during a NewsNation town hall debate with husband Mike Pence on Wednesday (NewsNation)

He said he didnt want to impose his values on how other people chose to manage their marriage, but pointed to a 2017 New York Times poll that found a majority of couples agreed with his stance.

In the wake of those tragic circumstances around the MeToo movement, it seemed to go away, Mr Pence added.

Mr Vittert then cracked a joke about how he didnt have the conservative Republican quoting New York Times polls on his bingo card, before moving on to other topics.

Mr Pence earlier praised Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, when her name was mentioned as a potential VP.

The former Indiana governor is languishing in fifth place with 5.1 per cent in Republican primary polling, according to FiveThirtyEight.com.
Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct the spelling of the name of Joshua Blank, research director for the Texas Politics Project at the University of Texas.

Prosecuting and defense attorneys in the case of Austin police officer Christopher Taylor, who is charged with killing a man in 2020, presented arguments Thursday on whether the trial should be moved out of Travis County.

Taylor's lawyers filed to have the trial moved in July on the grounds that Taylor would be unable to obtain a fair trial in Travis County due to the publicity surrounding it and public perception of the death of Michael Ramos.

Austin police officer Christopher Taylor

District Judge Dayna Blazey said she will make a ruling Friday on whether to move the trial outside of the county. Trials have rarely been moved out of Travis County, former state District Judge Brenda Kennedy previously told the American-Statesman.

The 319-page filing to move the trial out of Austin received the support of former District Attorney Margaret Moore, whose administration first investigated the case; Charlie Baird, a former state district judge and judge on Texas highest criminal court; and well-known Austin attorneys Sam Bassett, Gerry Morris, Joe James Sawyer, Joe Turner and Wayne Meissner.

Taylor's lawyers, Doug O'Connell, Ken Ervin and Rob Daniel, also cited the difficulty of seating a jury, in part because many potential jurors had already formed an opinion about the case, as a reason to change the location.

A judge declared Taylor's trial a mistrial in May after flyers about the case were placed on some of the potential jurors' cars.

More: Exclusive: APD officer Christopher Taylor wants murder trial moved out of Austin

"We did not file (the motion) prior to trying to get a jury; we did not allege the sky was falling before it was falling, Ervin said in opening remarks. "We simply had no choice but to do this because of what happened in May."

Taylor fatally shot the unarmed Ramos, who was Black and Latino, in an apartment complex parking lot in Southeast Austin on April 24, 2020, after a 911 caller reported that a group of people were using drugs and that they believed someone had a weapon. Responding officers said Ramos did not comply with orders and that they tried to use "less lethal" ammunition to subdue him.

Officers said Ramos got in a car and started driving away, which is when Taylor shot and killed him. Taylor's attorneys said he shot Ramos to protect other officers who were in the path of the car.

Ramos' killing came just a month before George Floyd's death in Minneapolis sparked nationwide Black Lives Matter protests. Ramos' name was often shouted locally during protests in 2020, and murals with his portrait can be seen in the city.

Lawyers present evidence for, against moving trial

A central argument by the defense was that flyers, like the ones put on some of the potential jurors' cars, could not be stopped if the trial remained in Travis County.

Prosecuting attorneys countered by saying that flyers could be put on cars in any county.

Angela Jones, a Texas State University criminal justice professor who specializes in pretrial publicity, said that media coverage has been "pro-prosecution," according to an analysis of 49 news articles given to her by Taylor's lawyers. She said this makes it "practically impossible" for a fair trial in Travis County.

More: Judge declares mistrial in Austin police officer murder case during jury selection

Jones said people living in Austin likely heard about the high-profile case, and even if they didn't remember, people could still have unconscious bias about the case since much of the coverage painted Taylor in a negative light.

Prosecutor Dexter Gilford countered by questioning the validity of the report because the 49 articles were given to Jones by Taylor's lawyers. He said that before the flyers were passed out, only a fraction of the possible jurors said they had heard about the case in May.

A photo of the flyer found on two potential jurors' cars in May that led to the initial trial of Christopher Taylor, accused of killing Michael Ramos while on police duty in 2020, being declared a mistrial.

Joshua Blank, research director for the Texas Politics Project at the University of Texas, who has expertise in public polling, said the research conducted with the 49 articles "doesn't speak at all" to the opinions of eligible jurors in Travis County. He said the research relied on articles provided by the defense with no explanation as to why they were selected, which made it appear that those articles were selected solely for the reason of justifying the change of venue.

Ervin said in his closing remarks that a "dangerous combination" of biased media coverage and public perception made a fair trial unlikely. State prosecutor Gary Cobb countered that the "dangerous combination" was not based on evidence.

"(Taylor) committed murder in this community, and this community should try him," Cobb said.

A woman stands outside of La Mexicana Bakery looking at a mural of Mike Ramos on July 28, 2020.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Arguments made to move Mike Ramos murder trial out of Austin
Military cases of a medical condition made worse by shaving have skyrocketed since 2000, with most of the growth in the past two years, a new Defense Department medical report shows.

As multiple services consider relaxing or amending the military-wide prohibition on beards, data shows that cases of pseudofolliculitis barbae, or PFB, are soaring.

The condition, which causes painful inflammation and razor bumps, affecting some 45% of Black service members, is one of a few reasons for granting a rare military shaving waiver.

In 2000, there were 50 reported cases of pseudofolliculitis barbae, according to the Defense Health Agencys Medical Surveillance Monthly Report for August. In 2022, there were 2,404  an increase of 4,708%.

New in 2023: Results of the Navys latest beard study coming in 2023

Just since 2020, the increase in pseudofolliculitis barbae cases has been drastic. Theyre up from about 500 Black troops to more than 1,400 among Black troops in that time frame, and from 150 troops to about 400 troops each for White and Hispanic troops.

The report states that Black troops have composed a relatively steady 16%18% of the total military force over the last 20 years.

The data survey did not address the entire population of troops with beard waivers, which can also be granted in conjunction with religious exemptions.

The frequency trend is well out of proportion to the change in troop strength, the short report states, adding that the matter may warrant further study.

In light of repeated requests from troops to reexamine the beard prohibition, the Navy in 2022 launched a study to examine whether facial hair impairs an oxygen masks ability to seal, a longstanding objection to allowing beards.

The Air Force, meanwhile, in 2022 completed an examination of inclusive male grooming standards led by military medical providers that concluded a more permissive facial hair policy would promote equity in the force.

Does the recent sharp rise in pseudofolliculitis barbae cases indicate then a growing awareness of the waiver option or a rising eagerness to exploit a policy loophole? Probably both, said Lt. Col. Simon Ritchie, an Air Force dermatologist at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, who led the services inclusive grooming standards study.

Ritchie told Military Times that his interest in the subject began with his friendship with a Black colleague who confided that hed missed out on a number of career opportunities, including a recruiter assignment and meetings with senior leaders, because his waiver-permitted beard was perceived as unprofessional.

He ended up separating from the military because of that, Ritchie said, despite his exemplary work performance.

The study Ritchie led for the Air Force, which began in 2018 and was released in 2022, found that the process of reviewing and granting shaving waivers was a drain on service resources, adding up to 18,000 annual office visits and nearly $5 million in costs.

It also demonstrated that the experience of Ritchies colleague was a common one: Shaving waivers were associated with longer times to promotion, reduced selection for special duty opportunities and lower retention, even when controlling for other factors like race, grade and education level. The study group ultimately recommended that the Air Force allow up to 1/4 inch of neatly groomed facial hair to eliminate the professional stigma and negative career outcomes.

The big, real salient point here that was a surprise is that this is not in itself a race-based effect, Ritchie said of the professional impact of shaving waivers. But it becomes racially discriminatory when you look at the breakdown of shaving waiver holders, and that of course, is because of the prevalence of pseudofolliculitis bfarbae in that population.

Black troops made up about 64% of the pseudofolliculitis barbae cases assessed in the Medical Surveillance Monthly Report report.

Earlier in his career, when he ran a shaving clinic for new trainees in San Antonio, Ritchie saw dozens of pseudofolliculitis barbae cases each week, he said. Allowing even 1/8 of an inch of hair growth, he said, precludes 99% of these cases.

Thats not to say that all reported cases are medically valid. Ritchie, who emphasized that he was just speculating based on experience, said its likely growing awareness of the shaving waiver option and a growing dismantling of some of the negative stereotypes around it have contributed to the increase in reported pseudofolliculitis barbae cases. But, he said, it remains incredibly easy to secure a diagnosis and waiver without a proven occurrence of the condition.

People are looking around, [saying], They have a beard; I want a beard. I dont like shaving, Ritchie said. So Im going to go ahead and do it any way I can.

In the overworked field of military primary medical care, he said, providers are constantly under pressure to get to the next patient and shaving waiver requests are an easy kill when it comes to solving a patients problems. Then, he said, a lot of troops fail to understand the difference between pseudofolliculitis barbae and shaving dermatitis, or simple skin irritation from shaving.

Shaving dermatitis is something that everybody gets because shaving is not a natural thing, and irritates the skin, he said. Theres a lack of understanding in the patient population, theres a lack of understanding and primary care providers. And I dont think it is their job to understand.

While the Navy has yet to release findings from its study on mask fit with facial hair, Ritchies work included a review of prior studies. The most recent ones, from 2016, and 2018, found beards did not interfere with mask fit.

One proposal from Ritchies research team was to make the ability to fit and seal a mask a precondition for facial hair  or require that troops agree to shave if needed for readiness purposes.

At a time right now, where retention and recruitment is at an all-time low, we dont feel like this is a smart way to be treating our people and our airmen, Ritchie said, adding that many other militaries in the NATO alliance allow beards without any drawbacks to military readiness.

Weve talked about other forms of racial discrimination in the Air Force; this is a numbers-proven one, he said. And yet were not willing to do anything about it.
Ukrainian forces struck two Russian patrol ships, Vasily Bykov, on the morning of Sept. 14, reported the military's Strategic Communications Directorate.

The ships stationed in the southwestern part of the Black Sea sustained "certain damages," the directorate wrote without further details.

Vasily Bykov is a large patrol corvette of the Russian Navy, equipped with a naval gun, portable air defense systems, and heavy machine guns.

Russian forces used a Vasily Bykov ship, along with the sunk Moskva cruiser, to attack Ukraine's Snake Island on the first day of the full-scale invasion.

The Black Sea has seen an escalation of hostilities following Russia's unilateral termination of the grain deal.

As Russia began targeting Ukraine's ports and agricultural infrastructure, Russian officials have also reported on a number of alleged Ukrainian strikes against targets in occupied Crimea and Russian naval bases.

On Sept. 13, Ukraine's military intelligence told RBC-Ukraine that an overnight strike on a shipyard in Sevastopol in Crimea damaged a Russian landing craft, a submarine, and port infrastructure.

According to Ukraine's Navy spokesperson, Dmytro Pletenchuk, Ukrainian forces have already put out of action five large Russian military landing crafts.

Read also: Increased attacks on Crimea disrupt Russian logistics, attempt to derail its southern defenses

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley offered his first public denial this week of claims that he told former President Trump to attack Iran during his administration.

I can assure you that not one time have I ever recommended to attack Iran, Milley told CNNs Fareed Zakaria in an excerpt of an interview published Thursday.

The claims are at the center of Trumps legal battle over federal charges for allegedly failing to return classified documents to the government.

The former president was captured in a 2021 audio recording in the case boasting about a classified document that he said shows Milley recommended he attack Iran.

Milley, who is conducting a round of exit interviews as he steps down from his post at the end of this month, told CNN he doesnt know the document theyre talking about.

No ones presented me with what it is theyre talking about. So I really still cant comment on it, Milley said in the interview. But I can assure you that  a military attack on Iran is a very, very serious undertaking.

Its unclear whether the allegations made by Trump are factual, but the document in question appears to exist.

A July indictment from the special counsel investigating Trump charges the former president with illegally retaining a document on a presentation concerning military activity in a foreign country, which CNN has reported was related to Iran.

Trump had a tumultuous relationship with Milley after he tapped the general to be the nations highest-ranking officer in 2018. In the final days of Trumps presidency, Milley reportedly moved to ensure the president did not attack Iran, and the 2021 audio may have been Trump trying to prove his side of the story.

Trumps former chief of staff, Mark Meadows, has backed his former boss in the feud. Meadows claimed in his book, The Chiefs Chief, that Milley advised Trump more than once to attack Iran.

But Milley told CNN he can speak with certainty that this chairman never recommended a wholesale attack on Iran.

And to do that, I think would require a significant degree of risk that we may or may not want to take given the circumstances, but that that part of it didnt happen, he said. And Im not sure I dont know the exact quotes that Mr. Meadows said, but I can assure you I know what Ive done and its not to recommend an attack on Iran.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Since Russia pulled out of the grain deal with Ukraine, its attacks on Ukrainian ports have damaged or partially destroyed 105 port infrastructure facilities, Oleksandr Kubrakov, Ukraine's infrastructure minister, said on his official Facebook page on Sept. 13.

Due to strikes on the ports of the Danube cluster and Russia's seaports blockade, grain exports to Asia, Africa and Europe were reduced by almost three million tonnes per month, according to the minister.

In July 2022, a deal was struck between Russia and Ukraine - brokered by Turkey and the UN - allowing cargo ships to sail along a corridor in the Black Sea. Almost 33 million tonnes of grain were shipped from Ukraine under the deal, and world food prices declined by roughly 20% as a result, according to the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization.

The deal expired on July 17 and since then Russia has launched a series of air attacks on Ukraine's ports, destroying thousands of tonnes of grain. The ports of the Danube cluster are currently the only waterway for Ukrainian agricultural exports.

Kubrakov stressed that the ports need "powerful air defense systems" otherwise the consequences of the attacks could be much worse.

Russia launched another drone attack on the Ismail region of Odesa overnight on Sept. 13, injuring six civilians and damaging port and other civil infrastructure.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Strike on shipyard in occupied Sevastopol damages 2 Russian vessels

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Kyle Ricke, seen here, was arrested in Minnesota just before midnight Wednesday for allegedly shooting an Iowa police officer hours earlier, authorities said. Photo courtesy Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation

Sept. 14 (UPI) -- An Iowa man suspected of shooting and killing a police officer was charged with murder on Thursday after he was arrested in Minnesota, officials said.

Kyle Lou Ricke, 43, was charged with first-degree murder in the killing of the officer identified as 33-year-old Algona police Kevin Cram.

Ricke was arrested just before midnight in Sleepy Eye, Minn., without incident after authorities accused him of shooting Cram at about 8 p.m. Wednesday in Algona, Iowa. Additional details about the encounter were not immediately released.

Ricke is set to be extradited back to Iowa in the coming days.

During the search for Ricke, Algona residents were told to lock all doors and vehicles and stay inside.

Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Stephan K. Bayens on Thursday morning said Cram had worked in law enforcement for 10 years and was on patrol duty when he learned of the active warrant out for Ricke and believed he knew where to find him.

"Algona police officer Kevin Cram died because he answered the call to serve," Bayens said. "Algona police officer Kevin Cram died because he chose to be a beacon of light. Algona police officer Kevin Cram died because he was willing to stand in the gap between good and evil."

Ricke was charged on Wednesday before the shooting with third-degree harassment in an unrelated case where his ex-wife accused him of sending dozens of text messages and tried calling her several times within a two-hour span.

Despite being told not to contact the woman by police, Ricke allegedly sent her messages and emails the following day, leading to him appearing in court on Wednesday, with a court date set for Nov. 3.
Longtime Minnesota Public Radio regular John Wanamaker is moving to Des Moines.

His last day at St. Paul-based MPR is Sept. 21 and he will join Iowa Public Radio in early October. After two decades on the Twin Cities airwaves, he is excited for something new.

"I'll be honest. Most of our friends have some Iowa connections up here  they're either from Iowa or they went to Iowa with my wife," Wanamaker told the Register. "I was also ready for a change. I think I was a little played out."

Wanamaker will begin hosting the local version of "All Things Considered" here in Iowa later this fall. He replaces Catherine Wheeler, who hosted the program from 2021 until she left Iowa Public Radio in July for a position with North Country Public Radio in New York state.

"I've always looked at hosting in radio as a conversation ... make it conversational, try to find out what is important for your listeners and deliver the news they want to hear and need to hear," Wanamaker said. He also said that he takes a more lowkey approach to broadcasting on public radio, which is typically less personality-driven.

Wanamaker's wife grew up in Indianola and her parents still live in the small city just 30 minutes south of downtown Des Moines. The couple, who are parents to three cats, now owns a home there and Wanamaker will help care for his in-laws.

'Everybody I've met so far has been really, really nice'

The Wanamakers are excited to trade the "hectic" hustle and bustle of Twin Cities' for her hometown.

"She keeps on extolling the virtues of smaller-town living. Being able to go on a walk, day or night, and I'm just looking forward to a bit of a slower pace," he said.

Before joining MPR, the newscaster worked for six years as an anchor and reporter at WCCO Radio.

His body of work in Minnesota includes coverage of the 2008 Republican National Convention in St. Paul, where he was tear gassed twice. Wanamaker was also one of the first journalists present to cover the I-35W Bridge Collapse over the Mississippi River, which shocked the nation and led to kitchen table conversations about infrastructure.

"That (bridge collapse) was a very, very memorable day covering that and just the everyday kind of stories, and I hate to say it -- the good and the bad that you encounter every day in the business," he said.

Wanamaker is also already getting a dose of Iowa nice.

"Everybody I've met so far has been really, really nice and very welcoming."

Jay Stahl is an entertainment reporter at The Des Moines Register. Follow him on Instagram or reach out at jstahl@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa Public Radio hires former MPR host John Wanamaker
FILE - Greta Kemp Martin, the Democratic nominee for Mississippi attorney general, discusses her proposal to create a fair labor division as part of the attorney general's office during a news conference, Aug. 31, 2023, in Jackson, Miss. She is challenging Republican incumbent Lynn Fitch in November's general election. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis, File)

JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  Mississippi should stop defending a Jim Crow-era portion of its state constitution that permanently strips voting rights from people convicted of certain felonies, the Democratic nominees for two statewide offices said Thursday.

Greta Kemp Martin faces first-term Republican Attorney General Lynn Fitch and Ty Pinkins faces first-term Republican Secretary of State Michael Watson in the Nov. 7 election.

Kemp Martin said a panel of federal appeals judges made the correct decision Aug. 4 when they ruled that Mississippi's ban on voting after conviction for crimes including forgery and bigamy is a violation of the U.S. Constitution's ban on cruel and unusual punishment.

The disenfranchisement is "a continued punishment for people who have served their sentence to the state of Mississippi, Kemp Martin said Thursday. "And they deserve the right to be able to enter their community and participate in one of our most sacred rights.

Fitch, who represents Watson in court, filed papers Aug. 18 asking the full 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to reconsider the panel's ruling and to continue allowing the permanent disenfranchisement of some residents.

Kemp Martin said if she is elected attorney general, she will drop the request for a rehearing. If the panel's ruling stands, tens of thousands of Mississippi residents would regain voting rights after they finish serving their sentences.

Pinkins, appearing at a Vicksburg news conference with Kemp Martin, said regaining the right to vote is vital for people who have left prison.

You're not a full citizen if you can't exercise that fundamental right," Pinkins said. "Secretary of State Michael Watson and Attorney General Lynn Fitch  they have been fighting so that we can't overturn that archaic law."

The Associated Press sent emails to spokespeople for Fitch and Watson on Thursday, seeking response to comments by their challengers. In response, Fitch spokesperson Debbee Hancock referred to part of Fitch's filing to the appeals court: The panel ruled that it could invalidate a category of felon disenfranchisement, that Mississippis disenfranchisement law imposes punishment under the U.S. Constitution, and that that law is cruel and unusual. As Judge Jones explained in dissent, all those conclusions are wrong.

The New Orleans-based 5th Circuit is widely considered one of the most conservative federal appeals courts. Fitch asked the full court  with 16 active judges  to reconsider the case, saying the 2-1 ruling by the panel conflicts with Supreme Court precedent and rulings in other circuit courts. Attorneys challenging the ban filed papers Aug. 31, disagreeing with Fitch.

A separate lawsuit used a different argument to challenge Mississippi's prohibition on voting by people with felony convictions  and in 2022, the 5th Circuit ruled against those plaintiffs. That lawsuit argued the lifetime disenfranchisement was designed to keep Black people out of power. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court said it would not consider that case, allowing the ruling to stand.

The lawsuit that the Supreme Court declined to hear was based on arguments about equal protection. Plaintiffs said that the authors of the Mississippi Constitution in 1890 stripped voting rights for crimes they thought Black people were more likely to commit, including forgery, larceny and bigamy.
In the upcoming biography, "Romney: A Reckoning"  written by McKay Coppins, a journalist for The Atlantic  a passage details Sen. Mitt Romney recalling a time when then-Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell spoke to him about Donald Trump, having nothing particularly great to say.

In an excerpt published by The Atlantic on Wednesday, the exchange between Romney and McConnell paints a pretty clear picture of how Trump was viewed by his peers while in office. In 2019, after Trump launched his #IMPEACHMITTROMNEY cyber campaign over a difference in opinion regarding "pressuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy into investigating the Biden family's business dealings," Romney thanked McConnell for urging him to back off from attacking members of the Senate and an enlightening convo took place from there, according to the book.

"It wasn't for you so much as for him," McConnell replied. "He's an idiot. He doesn't think when he says things." "You're lucky," McConnell continued. "You can say the things that we all think. You're in a position to say things about him that we all agree with but can't say."

It's noted at the end of this section of the book that " A spokesperson said that McConnell does not recall this conversation and that he was 'fully aligned' with Trump during the impeachment trial."
Columbian-American poet Carlos Andres Gomez tells a story to a group of Indiana University Northwest students as part of the campus' Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, on Wednesday, September 13, 2023. (Kyle Telechan for the Post-Tribune) (Kyle Telechan/Post-Tribune)

The Beastie Boys called it the drop and Carlos Andres Gomez knows it as the Pinch, but everyone knows the buildup to the moment the music pauses and then switches to the part that never fails to make you submit to its groove.

Gomez, a world-renowned poet who appeared at Indiana University Northwest Wednesday to perform during the campuss Hispanic Heritage month, recalled a time the Pinch got him good in A Communion of Miracles, one of a handful of slam poems he performed outside the Anderson Library to a small group. He was out on a Saturday night waiting for the bass line to kick in when he locked eyes with the most gorgeous human being.

Advertisement

Like Mona Lisas face/smile, like DaVincis backward scrawl you need a mirror to read off, like Michael Jordan taking off from the foul line, his body contorting impossibly  like Audrey Lord four bars into a Miles Davis remix of Tupacs I Get Around, the way she spins me is awkward, he recited from his poem, A Communion of Miracles.  ... but right now, shes still in her wheelchair, her torso writhing like a buckling dam about to burst forth into this world, her smile blessing the ceiling 

Indiana University Northwest students listen as Columbian-American poet Carlos Andres Gomez recites poetry as part of the campus' Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, on Wednesday, September 13, 2023. (Kyle Telechan for the Post-Tribune) (Kyle Telechan/Post-Tribune)

The New York City author, who doubles as a diversity, equity and inclusion consultant strategist, wove his poetry into lessons for the students. In one sequence, he talked about microaggressions and how hell spend the rest of his life dismantling and unlearning the stereotypes in his own head.

Advertisement

You get the questions: Where you from? Brooklyn. Nah, where you really from? he said. If it comes from a good place and I intuitively like you, Ill entertain it. But if you encounter microaggressions every day, Im going to guess there are double Ph.D.s here, and you dont get paid for educating strangers. You dont owe people that.

I have a friend who, when that happens to her, she said, I dont say a word. I make my face blank until they leave.

Another experience saw a friend of Gomezs who, in college, brought the wrath of her family when she decided to shave her head at 18, he said. The young woman came from a long line of Mexican women who placed their worth on having long, straight hair, but her hair was curly, and she just got sick of making her hair do anything at all.

Columbian-American poet Carlos Andres Gomez, on left, poses for a photo with Indiana University Northwest anthropology student Cosme Herrera Jr. after a performance at Indiana University Northwest as part of the campus' Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations on Wednesday, September 13, 2023. (Kyle Telechan for the Post-Tribune) (Kyle Telechan/Post-Tribune)

As soon as they found out, her abuela, her mom and three Tias came to campus to figure out why she would do such a thing.

No, but what does it mean!? Are you a lesbian? Gomez said, imitating the women. And my friend was like, No! I just dont want to deal with it. Why is this a thing?

Gomez, who joked that he wanted his audience to give up 10 years of their lives to go on tour with him because he vibed with them so well, said hes become a magician of attention over the nearly 23 years hes toured colleges performing his poetry. Hes noticed that now more than ever, it feels like students are clamoring to find where they fit in.

Ive seen a spike in attendance since the pandemic, he said. Theres a loneliness epidemic, and so many are looking for connections and belonging when theyre with me. They want to step out of their comfort zones and into meaningful connections, so Im optimistic.

A group within the group  Xochilth Villa, of Hobart; Melissa Carlos, of Hammond; Lindsey Garcia, of DeMotte; and Chira Hibbler, of Gary  were excited to pose for pictures with Gomez after the performance. They came at the behest of Carlos, who loves poetry.

Advertisement

Hes very impactful with the way he spoke and moved, Carlos said.

Michelle L. Quinn is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
A text from Mitt Romney to Mitch McConnell in the hours leading up to the January 6 siege of Congress by a violent mob of Donald Trumps supporters ended up predicting accurately both the attack itself and the threat posed by DCs National Guard contingent reporting to the man accused of dispatching the mob itself.

It was revealed in an excerpt of Atlantic reporter McCay Coppinss new book on the departing US senator, slated for upcoming release. Romney: A Reckoning, is set to be a biography of the Republican centrist and the most revealing look yet into his experiences within a Trump-controlled Republican Party.

The text message, spurred by a warning from fellow senator Angus King, is an eerie look at just how accurately federal law enforcement agencies were in their predictions and intelligence-gathering in the leadup to January 6  and in the end, how little it mattered.

In case you have not heard this, I just got a call from Angus King, who said that he had spoken with a senior official at the Pentagon who reports that they are seeing very disturbing social media traffic regarding the protests planned on the 6th, Romneys text read, according to Coppins. There are calls to burn down your home, Mitch; to smuggle guns into DC, and to storm the Capitol. I hope that sufficient security plans are in place, but I am concerned that the instigatorthe Presidentis the one who commands the reinforcements the DC and Capitol police might require.

His prediction was dead on the money. For hours during the attack on the Capitol, a severely outnumbered force of Capitol Police officers faced off against thousands of violent rioters and saw themselves pushed back into the halls of the congressional complex itself. At one point, a woman was shot while attempting to breach a barricade protecting the floor of the House where lawmakers were huddled in fear for their lives.

DC National Guardsmen showed up three hours after the attack began, after dozens of police officers had been injured  some severely. One officer suffered two strokes and died eight hours after being sprayed with a chemical irritant during the attack, and four officers died by suicide in the months following.

While Pentagon officials have testified that reinforcements were not deliberately held back by Department of Defense officials during the attack, the fact remains clear that Mr Trump himself (whom the DC Guard contingent reports to) did not issue a directive to send them as the attack began and held off for hours himself before issuing a recorded statement asking the attackers, his supporters, to leave peacefully.

Mr Trump now faces criminal charges, the first case of a US president to do so, for his efforts to alter the results of the 2020 election and block Joe Biden from taking office after his challenges all failed in court. A handful were brought by the Department of Justice, and another set have been filed by prosecutors in Fulton County, Georgia.

A first-term senator, Mr Romney announced on Wednesday that he would decline to seek reelection for a second term in 2024. Since taking office, he has emerged as one of the most vocal opponents of Donald Trump within the GOP, and supported both pushes for Mr Trumps impeachment in 2020 and 2021.
Senator Mitt Romney of Utah, a former presidential nominee and a rare relative moderate in the Republican party of Donald Trump, has said he will not run for a second term next year, depriving the party of one of its fiercest critics in Congress of the former US president and his political movement.

Related: Rightwing womens group slammed for keynote address by misogynist Trump

Its pretty clear that the party is inclined to a populist demagogue message, he said in an interview with the Washington Post in which he announced his retirement.

Romney lost the 2012 presidential election to Barack Obama and entered Congress in 2018. Before that he was governor of Massachusetts between 2003 and 2007.

Amid increased scrutiny of the advanced age of many US politicians, Romney, 76, said it was time for a new generation to step up [and] shape the world theyre going to live in. He also said he did not think a second term that would end in his 80s could be as effective as his first.

That, Romney said, was in part down to a far-right dominated House Republican party which made it difficult for that chamber to operate, and in part down to a looming 2024 presidential election between the incumbent, Joe Biden, and his predecessor, Trump.

Biden is unable to lead on important matters and Trump is unwilling to lead on important matters, Romney said.

Trump faces 91 criminal charges, including 17 for election subversion and 40 over the retention of classified information, and numerous civil lawsuits  but still leads Republican polling in the 2024 nomination race by huge margins.

Romney opposed Trumps nomination in 2016 and emerged as a rare Republican critic, despite a wobble after Trump won the White House, when Romney appeared to seek a cabinet appointment.

That did not materialise, and Romney eventually became the only Republican senator to vote to convict Trump in both his impeachment trials, for seeking political dirt in Ukraine and for inciting the January 6 attack on Congress. The party did not follow Romney and Trump was twice acquitted.

Speaking to the Post, Romney said: If there were no cost to doing whats right, thered be no such thing as courage  I think its fair to say that the support I get in Utah is because people respect someone who does what they believe is right, even if they disagree with me.

He also released a video message.

Romney told the Post he would have been open to helping a Republican candidate other than Trump in 2024, but acknowledged Trumps grip on the primary.

Romney with his wife and sons at the Iowa caucuses in January 2012, the year he won the Republican nomination. Photograph: Rick Wilking/Reuters

I doubt my support will mean anything positive to any of the candidates at the finish line, Romney said, noting the prominence of other far-right candidates, Ron DeSantis and Vivek Ramaswamy, and saying: Im not looking to get involved in that  Its pretty clear that the party is inclined to a populist demagogue message.

Asked who he thought would win Biden v Trump round two, Romney said: Today Id say 50-50. If I had to bet, Id say it could go either way. So much can happen between now and then.

He rejected the idea of a third-party candidate, as floated by the centrist group No Labels, perhaps Joe Manchin, the Democratic senator from West Virginia.

I lobby continuously that it would only elect Trump, Romney said.

Saying he would not mount a farewell tour, Romney said: Im not leaving the party, not retiring. You cannot expect me to hit the beach. Im going to be as productive as I possibly can be.

Rejecting the idea that Trump had broken his party, he said: If it can change in the direction of a populist, it can change back in the direction of my wing.

Romney is the son of a Republican governor, George Romney of Michigan, who in 1968 ran for the presidential nomination from the establishment wing of the party.

The most successful Mormon politician in US history, Mitt Romney seized the nomination in 2012. But he was conclusively beaten by Obama, who successfully focused on his opponents career as a venture capitalist, portraying him as harsh and out of touch.

Still reveling in a rare high point of that campaign  a judgment call about the threat from Russia which Obama did not share  Romney used his Post interview to discourse on foreign policy, rejecting Republican opposition to aid for Ukraine in its war with Russia and praising the Biden administration for its handling of relations with China.

Of threats at home, as demonstrated by the pro-Trump mob which attacked Congress on January 6, Romney said: I think its of paramount importance to maintain our commitment to the constitution and the liberal constitutional order  I do believe that our institutions, while under constant barrage, are strong, that our court system is strong and that, fundamentally, the American people stand by the constitution and the constitutional norms.

Contradicting his earlier contention that the next election would be 50-50, Romney did predict defeat if Trump is the Republican nominee again.

I know that there are some in Maga world [a reference to Trumps slogan, Make America great again] who would like Republican rule, or authoritarian rule by Donald Trump, he said.

But I think they may be forgetting that the majority of people in America would not be voting for Donald J Trump. The majority would probably be voting for the Democrats.
Sen. Mitt Romney said he couldn't "disrespect someone more" than his GOP colleague, JD Vance.

Despite that disrespect, the two have notably worked together on two key pieces of legislation.

Vance says he's fine working with "people who badmouth me in public."

The United States Senate can be a strange place.

On Wednesday afternoon, less than an hour after Republican Sen. Mitt Romney announced that he would not seek re-election next year, The Atlantic published the first excerpt of a forthcoming biography of the Utah senator.

The excerpt includes several passages in which Romney  who will remain in the Senate for over a year until his term ends in January 2025  makes several unflattering comments about his Republican colleagues.

The bulk of Romney's ire, at least in this initial book excerpt, was directed at Sen. JD Vance  the "Hillbilly Elegy" author and former Never Trumper who transformed into a staunch supporter of the former president before he began his 2022 campaign.

"I don't know that I can disrespect someone more than JD Vance," Romney said in the summer of 2021, according to the excerpt. "It's not like you're going to be famous and powerful because you became a United States senator. It's like, really? You sell yourself so cheap?"

"How do you sit next to him at lunch?" Romney also mused.

As it turns out, it's more easy than you might think. Romney, the genteel Never-Trumper and 2012 presidential nominee, has partnered with Sen. Vance on major pieces of legislation more than once.

"My job is to do things for the people of Ohio," Vance told Insider on Thursday. "If that requires working with people who badmouth me in public, then that's what I'll do."

In May, Romney was one of just a handful of GOP senators to cosponsor the Railway Safety Act of 2023, a bill to improve safety protocols for trains carrying hazardous materials that a bipartisan group of senators introduced after the train derailment in East Palestine. Romney's support is notable, given Vance's ongoing struggle to lock down sufficient Republican support for the new regulations.

And on Wednesday  hours before Romney's comments became public  the two were among a group of Republican senators to introduce a bill to raise the federal minimum wage to $11 by 2028. A short summary of the bill provided by Romney's office proudly displays the two senators' names, among others, at the bottom of the page.

"He and I have always gotten along," said Vance. "I know, allegedly, the comments were sort of from a long time ago, so maybe he's had a change of heart. You'd have to ask him."

Romney's office did not respond to Insider's request for comment.

Vance, who loudly laughed when asked about Romney's comments, also offered something of a challenge to the retiring senator.

"He's a grown man," said Vance. "If he has a problem with me, he should talk to me about it, not whine to a reporter about it."

Read the original article on Business Insider
This article is part of The D.C. Brief, TIMEs politics newsletter. Sign up here to get stories like this sent to your inbox.

Almost a decade ago, many in Washington were trading some version of the same text message to each other as they watched a 90-minute documentary called simply Mitt: Where the heck was this Mitt Romney when he ran?

It was an entirely fair question. Romneys 2008 and 2012 presidential campaigns were confounding, contradictory, and ultimately calamitous exercises in misreading both a candidates true self and the electorates tolerance for perceived inauthenticity. Although almost 61 million Americans voted for Romney as the GOP nominee in 2012, that left him with 47% of the popular vote and just 206 of the 270 electoral votes needed to capture the biggest prize in American politics.

While Romney dutifully defended his advisers and accepted the blame for his and his campaigns errors, he also had in his back pocket all of the footage collected by a documentary crew of both of his short-in-the-end efforts. The resulting Mitt showed a goofy grandfather, a decidedly decent man, and an earnest pol who just wanted to help his country, dating back to his first try for the Senate in 1994. The film introduced Americans to an infinitely more likable and relatable figure, qualities that maybe shouldnt matter when picking a national CEO but they do. But the image correction was a beat too late, being created with the understanding between Romney and the filmmaker, Greg Whiteley, that it would never see the light of day until he was done running foror beingPresident.

Well, by 2014, that seemed entirely likely. Romney conceded his 2012 loss and seemed ready to return to private life. After six yearsmore, if you count his turn lining up friendships with donors as the head of the Republican Governors Association while leading Massachusettsof trying to get to the White House, it seemed Citizen Mitt was going to have his deserved retirement and do things going forward without fear of what a stumble even in private could do for his legacy.

In the film, even Romney acknowledged the toll taken by his reputation as "the flippin' Mormon during his White House runs. Gone was, in his words, a quixotic question to unfix the publics mind: Youre not going to convince them that Dan Quayle is smart, or that Jerry Ford isnt a stumblebum. And it may be that Ive got to live with that. Oh, you flip on everything. In which case, I think Im a flawed candidate.

Then, a curious thing happened. Donald Trump started to climb in the polls and heading toward the 2016 nomination, and Romney didnt much like what he saw. He spoke out against the radicalization of his fellow Republicans and gave an early warning against the path they were on. Romney was never again going to run for anything and could unload his real thoughts.

Two years later, he used his continued critique of Trump to win a Senate seat from Utah, becoming the first person since Sam Houston to serve as Governor of one state and a Senator from another. It was an unexpected return for someone who had for so long seemed stymied by his inability to stop running the risk-reward tables in his head. But Romney now had the luxury of having won a Senate seat with 71% of the primary vote and 63% of the general election balloting. Romney was in deep-red Utah, a state that Trump carried in 2016 with just 46% of the vote.

Then, something even more curious happened: the same Democrats who spent close to $100 million in outside money to bury his 2012 presidential dreams suddenly found themselves cheering him on. The same Establishment Republicans who found him a phony in 2008Who let the dogs out? comes to mindand insufferable in 2012 suddenly had someone who was willing to say what they were all thinking about Trump. Romney was the lone Republican to vote for conviction during Trumps first impeachment trial, became an important negotiator for deals with Joe Bidens White House, and stood-in as a moral core for what conservatism could ideally stand for and against.

Here, it seemed, was an entirely reasonable Republican, someone not bewitched by Trumpism or unbowed by the mean tweets. Unmoored to his political ambition, Romney could be as authentic as he wanted to be. During the White House campaigns, he was dogged by his record: yes, he passed a forerunner to Obamacare; he changed his position on abortion rights; his foreign policy proved fungible at times.

In the Senate, that didnt much matter. After voting against Bidens nomination of Ketanji Brown Jackson to a seat on the D.C. federal appeals court, he later reversed himself and joined those who voted her onto the Supreme Court. Romney could do what he saw as the right thing, even when it put him afield of the present Republican Party and even his own voting record. He no longer feared the flip-flopped label.

But in embracing Romney, D.C.s elite proved their equally audacious inconsistency. The man they pilloried was now a hero, the candidate they crushed came back as a Lazareth deserving a second life. (In this analogy, of course, the same Washington insiders double as a deity here.) No one seemed to mind that Romneys once-dogmatic fear of what the folks at the conservative think tanks might be saying about him had melted to admirable compromise. It was impossible to despise someone who spent hours huddled over draft legislation that ultimately gave Democrats major wins in exchange for concessions sought by mainstream Republicans in the bipartisan infrastructure billeven if Romney was unbending in his opposition to a big spend on mass transit. And, once they got to know Romney as more than the guy who once strapped a kenneled family dog to the roof of the station wagon, they actually found they could do business with someone who sees the balance sheet as a solid barometer.

So when Romney announced on Wednesday that he would finish his current term in the Senate but open the door for someone else come 2025, those same voices who had in the past mocked the predictably had nothing but praise for their future former colleague. Fawning tributes poured in and it was as if Henry Clay himself were taking a final tour. It was the height of insta-amnesia, convenient if hackneyed.

Ultimately, it may not matter what those voices think or say. In the end, Romney found comfort in his own skin, confidence in his own character. The skittishness was gone, but so was his belief that he alone could fix what ails this country or even his own party. Finally recognized as the fair-minded patriarch of one of the great families in the Mormon faith, he can head to spend time with his five sons and their children. In leaning into the Romney that the country belatedly met in Mitt, he finally got to Washingtondecades after his first tryas his true self. In embracing Romney, much of Washington also revealed their true fickle selves.

Make sense of what matters in Washington. Sign up for the D.C. Brief newsletter.

Write to Philip Elliott at philip.elliott@time.com.
Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) has called out members of his own party for putting their political ambitions ahead of the best interests of the nation.

And theres one GOP lawmaker in particular he seems to have special disdain for.

I dont know that I can disrespect someone more than J.D. Vance, Romney told journalist McKay Coppins during Vances 2022 Senate campaign, according to a book excerpt published Wednesday in The Atlantic.

Romney, who on Wednesday announced he will not seek reelection next year, told Coppins at the time that he was impressed by Vance after reading his book, Hillbilly Elegy.

That changed when Vance went full MAGA and embraced Donald Trump as he ran for Senate.

How can you go over a line so stark as that  and for what? Romney said. Its not like youre going to be famous and powerful because you became a United States senator. Its like, really? You sell yourself so cheap?

Romney didnt seem ready to break bread with Vance anytime soon.

How do you sit next to him at lunch? he asked at the time, according to the excerpt.

In response to the excerpt, Vance told reporters Thursday: Its interesting to hear somebody criticizing another for having a change of heart. I think hes had about 35 of those during his time in public life. If hes got a problem with me, he should talk to me, not whine to a reporter.

Vance and Romney teamed up on introducing several bills this year, including legislation to bolster railway safety and hike the minimum wage to $11 per hour.

Romney also called out Sens. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) in the excerpt for publicly backing Trumps lies about the 2020 election.

They know better! he told Coppins. Josh Hawley is one of the smartest people in the Senate, if not the smartest, and Ted Cruz could give him a run for his money.

He accused the pair of putting politics above the interests of liberal democracy and the Constitution.

Coppins book, Romney: A Reckoning, hits stores Oct. 24.

Read the full excerpt at The Atlantic.

Igor Bobic contributed.
Modestos Rental Housing Safety Program is scheduled to start Friday with its first inspections to ensure tenants live in safe, habitable homes.

That includes housing that is free of pest infestations, sagging ceilings and rotting holes in the roof and that has plumbing and electrical in good working order.

Community and Economic Development Director Jessica Hill said that as of Tuesday, about 10 inspections have been scheduled.

The program takes the burden off low-income tenants who are afraid of complaining because of the fear of retaliation from landlords. The program calls for the city to annually inspect up to 10% of the rental housing stock randomly or based on data such as a history of complaints at a property.

... We believe that everyone deserves access to safe and livable housing, and this initiative will ensure just that, Mayor Sue Zwahlen said in a news release.

Modesto has about 40,000 units of rental housing, from apartments and condos to single-family homes and other types of housing, according to the city. The program exempts rental housing that is less than 10 years old or inspected through another government program.

Owners will need to register their rentals with the city. Property owners in good standing with the city can conduct their own annual inspections and certify their properties meet program requirement. The city has said it expects the majority of owners will do that.

The city notifies owners in advance before conducting an inspection, and the city charges $100 for an inspection. The program is designed to eventually be self-supporting. Owners are given a grace period to correct any problems. Those who dont face fines.

Owners who pass inspections are exempt from another program inspection for two years, according to the programs ordinance.

The city has set aside $411,000 in its 2023-24 budget, which started July 1, to launch the program. The money comes from the citys Measure H sales tax that voters approved in November.

The city has hired the Pleasanton-based firm 4Leaf to conduct the inspections. Hill has said the city does not have enough building inspectors to handle their current workload as well as these inspections.

Friday will be the first day for inspections, but Hill said the city started a soft launch earlier this year by notifying 326 property owners to register for the program. She said 67 have complied and that represents 2,500 units of housing.

Hill said now that the program has officially started, the city will step up its effort to notify property owners and follow up with those who did not respond to the initial request.

The City Council approved the program in September 2019. A city spokesman has said the inspections never started because of staffing and budget cuts and the pandemic. The city created the program through working with property owners and tenant advocates.

Modesto created the program in response to a 2017 crisis at at a Ninth Street apartment building. The building was in deplorable condition, including mold, rats, rotting bathroom floors and faulty electrical, but provided affordable housing for people who did not have other options. The studio apartments rented for about $585 a month.

The city condemned the building after the owner failed to make repairs, forcing out tenants who scrambled to find new housing. Modesto, Stanislaus County and others tried to help tenants find housing. The building later caught fire after the city had boarded it up, and what was left eventually was razed.

More information about the program can be found at www.modestogov.com/2386/Rental-Housing-Safety-Program.
(Bloomberg) -- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised to open a Hindu temple in January where a centuries-old mosque once stood, achieving a pledge made by his nationalist party and thats now aimed at reinvigorating his base ahead of elections next year.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Modi, 72, is expected to preside over the installation of the god Rams idol in the northern riverside town of Ayodhya, which is widely believed by devotees to be the Hindu deitys birthplace. The Supreme Court handed custody of the religious site to the Hindus in 2019 after decades of bitter disputes that came to a head with deadly riots in the 1990s.

The ceremonies to move the idol to the temple starts on January 14 and is likely to take 10-12 days, Nripendra Misra, chairman of the temple construction committee, told reporters.

The construction of the temple and the surrounding complex, slated to be completed in 2025, is estimated to cost 15 billion rupees ($181 million), said Misra. Donations of about 30 billion rupees were collected so far for the building complex and the government didnt give any funds, he added.

The inauguration of the temple comes about three months ahead of elections expected to be held by April and May. This helps the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party make the case to voters that Modi should be elected for a third straight term as prime minister.

Its a full political circle for Modi, who in 1990 was one of the main organizers of nationwide push to build a Hindu temple to replace a mosque on the site  a campaign that marked the emergence of his party as a national electoral force. The mosques destruction by a Hindu mob two years later sparked riots that killed 2,000 people, mostly Muslims.

The BJP used the temple issue to gain support among Hindus, increasing its vote share from two members of parliament in 1984. It led a coalition government by 1998 before losing power in 2004. It now controls more than 300 lawmakers in 543-member lower house of parliament.

The temple is the most visible manifestation of the BJPs Hindu-first agenda. Modis opponents say the BJP has made the South Asian country less tolerant of minorities in the nine years it has been in control of government. This was recently exemplified by the ethnic violence in the remote, northeastern state of Manipur and communal clashes in Delhi.

Modi last week used the Group of 20 summit in New Delhi to burnish his credentials as a statesman with global diplomats and voters back home. Indias opposition parties are trying to counter Modis popularity by forming an alliance to ensure there wont be many-cornered fights in the parliamentary elections.

The opposition was never able to tackle this, and neither is it prepared now, said Mujibur Rehman, who teaches politics at the Jamia Millia Islamia University in Delhi. The BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have never been shy of using the Ayodhya Ram temple politically, and have been honest about leveraging it for elections.

(Updates with details on donations and comment from political analyst.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
The Belarusian military is actively preparing large-scale exercises that are scheduled to take place at the end of the month, the monitoring group Belarusian Hajun reported on Sept. 14.

According to the report, the drills will involve troops of the 6th, 11th, 19th, and 120th mechanized brigades, as well as those of the 336th Rocket Artillery Brigade armed with Smerch and Polonez multiple rocket launchers.

The rocket artillery units have reportedly already begun to move into the area of the exercises.

Belarusian Hajun said that inspections are underway to assess the status and availability of weaponry and other equipment. The units also reportedly conduct classes to "prevent negative information influences on the personnel," the anti-government organization reported.

According to the group, head of the Department of International Military Cooperation of Belarusian Defense Ministry Valery Revenko announced the plans for the drills in late August.

The official claimed that the countries of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) have been notified of the upcoming drills.

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us

Belarus is currently conducting joint military drills with units of the Russian military, scheduled to last at least until Sept. 17, just as the country's dictator Alexander Lukashenko leaves for a state visit in Russia to meet Vladimir Putin.

Last year, Russia used the Belarusian territory, with Lukashenko's approval, to launch an unsuccessful offensive against Ukraine from the north, hoping to capture the capital of Kyiv.

Since then, the number of Russian troops stationed in the country has been steadily decreasing. In July, Ukrainian officials reported that Russia had withdrawn the vast majority of its troops previously stationed there.

Belarus became a host to a number of Wagner Group mercenaries, who arrived following their short-lived rebellion against the Kremlin in late June.

Although reports emerged that the contractors began to depart following their boss Yevgeny Prigozhin's death in a plane crash on Aug. 23, Minsk denied these claims, saying that the mercenaries would remain in Belarus.

Read also: Belarus Weekly: Belarusian embassies to stop issuing passports luring opposition home





Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
A Monroe County man has been indicted on charges relating to attempted enticement of a minor and attempted production of child pornography, United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, with the Middle District of Pennsylvania, announced Thursday.

According to the indictment, a grand jury charged 49-year-old Kenneth Lesser, of East Stroudsburg, with attempted online enticement, and sexual exploitation of children.

The complaint alleges that Lesser was in communication with an undercover agent, under the impression that they were the mother of a 13-year-old girl, and expressed interest in sexual relations with, and intimate photos of, the fictitious minor.

Lesser was arrested on Aug. 3 at the Bridge Street Apartments in Stroudsburg, where he allegedly planned to meet with the mother and daughter.

This article originally appeared on Pocono Record: U.S. Attorney: Monroe man sought sex from teen online
An Oak Hill man who beat, choked, and knocked his girlfriend to the ground while she was holding a child on Sept. 5 is still at large, the Volusia County Sheriff's Office said Wednesday.

Michael Anthony Merritt, 35, has a warrant for his arrest charging him with felony battery, child neglect without great harm, domestic violence, battery by strangulation, and kidnapping/false imprisonment of an adult.

Violent history

Merritt being free has caused anxiety for some, including a woman he had a child with who emailed the News-Journal.

"Can you please cover this on the news?" asked Brandii Saunders. "This monster's face needs to be EVERYWHERE so whoever is hiding him will turn him in."

Saunders, who was not battered, said Merritt has a violent history with multiple women that includes strangulation and false imprisonment.

Woman in abuse gives up kids Woman charged with child abuse gives up parental rights to her 3 children

The victim was Merritt's girlfriend of five years and has a child with him, the report states. She told deputies that between 12 a.m. and 2 a.m., they began arguing when the victim left some scraps of chicken on the kitchen counter and the dogs got to them.

Merritt became enraged and started screaming and cursing at the woman and then accused her of cheating.

He grabbed her phone and started scrolling through it, detectives said. The woman tried to flee, grabbing her son and running out of the house to a vehicle. The report states she broke her foot on the stairs as she tried to escape.

Merritt came to the vehicle and begged the woman not to leave, but after he saw she was determined to get away, he grabbed her by the hair, dragged her out of the vehicle, and took her back inside, detectives said. The woman then began to scream and Merritt grabbed her by the throat and tackled her as she held her child, the report shows.

Victim could not breathe

The child suffered a small abrasion on the left side of his neck behind his left ear and scratches on his left leg, investigators said. He squeezed the woman's neck to the point where she could not breathe, investigators said.

The pair separated and spent time in separate rooms until around 8 a.m. when she asked for the key so she could drive her child to school. The woman was able to leave home and went to a friend's house where she called deputies.

Sheriff's detectives said Merritt was previously arrested in November for battery, and in July 2012, both cases handled by Daytona Beach police.

Florida Department of Corrections show Merritt has spent several stints in prison including for a conviction on a domestic battery by strangulation charge and spent three years and 10 months in prison. He was released in September of 2016.

Saunders just wants him found.

"This isnt a wanted man that law enforcement is looking for. He is a monster, he is dangerous, and he needs to be off the streets," she said. "His history speaks for itself. He has been violent toward women and children for most of his life with barely any consequence."

The sheriff's office asks if anyone sees Merritt or knows where he is that they call 911 or 386-248-1777.

"He has so many pending cases," she said. "Enough is enough."

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Alleged chicken scraps domestic abuser sought
Gary Mayor Jerome Prince waves good-bye at the end of his final state of the city address at the Marquette Park Pavilion, in Gary on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. (Vincent D. Johnson/for the Post-Tribune). (Vincent D. Johnson/Chicago Tribune)

Gary Mayor Jerome Prince struck an optimistic tone at his final State of the City address, given on Thursday afternoon at the Marquette Park Pavilion.

The event came as Prince prepares to leave office in less than four months. He was unseated in the citys May Democratic primary election by State Sen. Eddie Melton, D-Gary, who is expected to win a decisive victory in the November general election and take office in January.

Advertisement

As I stand here today, I am filled with a mix of emotions, Prince told a crowd of city employees, constituents and reporters. Pride swells within me for the job I have done, often under adverse circumstances. Yet there is also a tinge of sadness, as there is still much left unfinished that I must pass on to my successor.

Gary Mayor Jerome Prince gives his final state of the city address at the Marquette Park Pavilion, in Gary on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. (Vincent D. Johnson/for the Post-Tribune). (Vincent D. Johnson/Chicago Tribune)

Prince was elected to the office in 2019, winning 48% of the vote amid an eight-candidate Democratic primary field and beating incumbent Mayor Karen Freeman Wilson, who had served as mayor since 2012. Just months after he took office the following year, his administration faced a once-in-a-century public health emergency in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prince responded with a series of restrictions on in-person government services and public gatherings.

Advertisement

We implemented public health policies that may have been unpopular but were necessary to safeguard lives of all of our residents, he reflected.

The pandemic also brought about one of the most significant financial boons in Garys recent history: The city received just over $80 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), passed by Congress in 2021 to mitigate the economic damage caused by COVID-19.

The money was a significant revenue boost for a city that has struggled with an anemic tax base for decades. Under Princes leadership, the city of Gary has put ARPA funds toward a broad array of programs and community investments, including a mobile mental health unit, a new YMCA and wellness facility, grants for nearly 100 local businesses affected by the pandemic, a down payment assistance program, and financial support for a new single-family subdivision, among other expenditures.

The Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana has been another boon. The city has seen its casino revenues double since it opened in 2021, Prince said. He stressed, however, that the city will continue to face significant economic challenges going forward and that long-term solutions to its budget woes will require growth in Garys tax base.

Gary Mayor Jerome Prince leans down to give his wife, DeAnna a kiss after his final state of the city address at the Marquette Park Pavilion, in Gary on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. (Vincent D. Johnson/for the Post-Tribune). (Vincent D. Johnson/Chicago Tribune)

Gary must overcome its financial limitations through growth, Prince said. It takes all of us and certainly it takes commitment.

There are reasons to be optimistic about Garys future, the mayor said. Prince pointed to plans for an $8 million Fiber Smart House, on which the city recently broke ground. Developed in collaboration with the telecommunications development firm Digital Equity LLC and the conservation nonprofit Decay Devils, the project will transform Garys iconic and long-abandoned Union Station into a network operations center and technology job training facility. The project will be funded through a combination of public and private sources.

In addition to bolstering the citys digital infrastructure, he said, the Fiber Smart House will encourage others to take a second look at the city of Gary area realize that it is truly a great place to make it smart investment.

Gary Mayor Jerome Prince got a standing ovation from the crowd at the end of his final state of the city address at the Marquette Park Pavilion, in Gary on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. (Vincent D. Johnson/for the Post-Tribune). (Vincent D. Johnson/Chicago Tribune)

Prince also highlighted the possible return of passenger flights to the Gary/Chicago Airport, which he anticipates will commence next year after a deal is reached with an airline.

Advertisement

A nearly three-decade veteran of city and county government, Prince concluded his remarks by expressing gratitude for the constituents who elected him and a deep sense of satisfaction in the work he did.

As I reflect on my time in office, I can only and honestly say that I have no remorse, no regrets, Prince said, to a standing ovation. Every decision, every action was driven by a deep-rooted commitment to this city and its success.

adalton@chicagotribune.com
This is a photo of a teacher talking to a student at their desk.

This article was originally published in Daily Montanan.

Montana is struggling to keep new teachers in the classroom.

More than half of newly licensed teachers in Montana leave the state or the profession within the first three years on the job and 86% of education graduates decide to leave the state or dont pursue teaching.

Thats a stunning number, said Sen. Dan Salomon, R-Ronan, Chairperson of the Education Interim Committee, during the committees meeting Tuesday.

No paywall. No pop-up ads.

Keep The 74 free with a donation during our Fall campaign.

Data on teacher retention in the state was presented to the committee by national nonprofit the Learning Policy Institute and in an update from the Office of Public Instruction.

Montana is looking at more than 1,000 teacher vacancies going into the upcoming school year  a problem stemming in part from financial constraints on teachers, lack of mentorship and less education graduates going into the field. Proposed solutions included more compensation and increased access to teacher education.

In order to fill the gap, the number of Emergency Authorization of Employments rose more than 90% and doubled in two years, according to OPI. Accreditation and Licensure Director of OPI Crystal Andrews said she believed 32 school districts in the state have applied for at least one emergency authorization.

Related

Where Do New Teachers Come From? Its Complicated. Policymakers Need to Know It

Andrews said qualifications for authorizations can vary, but gave examples of how in practice it can look like paraprofessionals or student teachers getting their own classrooms, or a music teacher from the local church coming to teach in school.

She said the most authorizations have been for elementary school classrooms, math, English, health and physical education teachers, as well as school counselors.

Andrews also discussed the teacher pipeline issue. With 383 education graduates from the Montana University System, there arent enough educators to meet the vacancies. And on top of that, a vast majority of them dont go to work in Montana schools. The Learning Policy Institute said enrollment in education programs in Montana has gone down 45% in the last nine years.

Andrews said she would be interested in working with the universities to get data on where these students go and why they leave.

One reason the Learning Policy Institute cited was financial. Montana is dead last in starting teacher salaries, which average $36,480.

They talk about and theres no place to live, and all the things that go with that and you throw in a student loan, said Salomon. They cant afford to be the teacher.

One quarter of teachers in the state reported having a second job during the school year, according to data from the Learning Policy Institute. An estimated 40% have student loan payments and across the state teachers spend on average $500 of their own money on classroom supplies without reimbursement.

Increased compensation for teachers along with higher quality preparation for the classroom were among recommendations from the institute to increase retention.

Learning Policy Institute Chief of Policy and Program Tara Kini said that research has supported competitive compensation being a big factor in recruitment, and noted that the data from 2021 in the presentation might not reflect progress made since the TEACH Act was implemented, which provided $2.5 million to increase teacher pay.

It may be worth considering how this program could be expanded to reach even more educators than the 500 early-career teachers that it currently serves, Kini said.

Gov. Greg Gianforte promoted the TEACH Act at an event at Lockwood High School in Billings, touting a 40% increase in funds to the program in the last legislative session. According to a press release Tuesday, funds from the program helped Lockwood fill their 18 vacancies.

Kini mentioned alternative compensation strategies like providing housing, childcare incentives or student loan forgiveness. She said districts in other states have passed initiatives to build subsidized rental housing for teachers and used federal funds for housing for teachers.

Related

How Many Start Teacher Training  & How Many Finish? The Numbers Are Disturbing

A recent survey of Montana teachers found a school being close to where the teacher lives was the top factor in their decision to accept their current job, senior researcher with the Learning Policy Institute Susan Patrick said during the presentation.

Montanas Grow Your Own program, designed to prepare high school students for careers in education in their local schools, didnt receive funding in the last legislative session, Patrick noted. She said states have turned to apprenticeship programs like Grow Your Own to help with the pipeline issues.

Having a supportive administration at a school is another big factor for teacher retention. Patrick said Idaho developed a new principals academy as well as a network for principals for support, especially for schools that were identified as needing improvement in the state.

Rep. Linda Reksten, R-Polson, who formerly served as superintendent in Butte and in Polson, asked if there was training in universities for principals in the state.

My observation is, unless you have really strong district leadership, it isnt happening, she said.

The Legislatures Office of Research and Policy Analysis outlined a list of programs in Montanas toolbox for addressing teacher retention, including a teacher residency program passed last session that uses federal dollars to place students in a year-long, practice-based learning experience, focusing on placements in rural schools.

As we grow that program, well continue to work and find opportunities for schools to bring Montanans in to teach Montanas kids  especially in those rural areas where theres such a critical shortage, bill sponsor Rep. Brad Barker, R-Red Lodge, said at the event in Billings according to the release.

Another program provides loan assistance for the first three years of a teachers career, with payments of $3,000, $4,000, and $5,000. The program helped more than 100 teachers in fiscal year 2023, according to the analysis.

Teachers also have the opportunity to receive stipends for earning a National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification, which can take years to complete, with a payout between $500 and $2,500 depending on the district. There was an $180,000 appropriation for the bill, which has been utilized by about 200 teachers.

Through collaborative efforts and creative solutions, and a commitment to valuing and supporting our teachers, we can build a brighter future for Montana students and educators alike, said Andrews. Let us work together to transform the landscape of education ensuring that our teachers are not only recruited, but also valued and inspired to stay for the benefit of our children.

Daily Montanan is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Daily Montanan maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Darrell Ehrlick for questions: info@dailymontanan.com. Follow Daily Montanan on Facebook and Twitter.
By 2 p.m. every third Monday of the month, lines are forming around Leahs Laundromat on the Q in Kansas City, Kansas.

Its like any other laundromat in the Kansas City metro except its Community Laundry Day and that means free laundry.

Leah and John McPherson are the owners of the laundromat. When they opened up shop at 1920 Quindaro Boulevard they didnt realize the impact it would have on the community.

I know this is a laundromat, but Ive learned over the two years, two and a half years that weve been open, its more than just laundry, Leah McPherson said.

Community Laundry Day goes deeper than cleaning clothes.

Leah McPherson runs Leahs Laundromat on the Q in Kansas City, Kansas, where members of the community gather once a month for Community Laundry Day. The mission behind it is to get as many families in here to get laundry done, Leah McPherson said. 

Outreach workers from the Community Health Council of Wyandotte County are assessing customers health needs on event day. Ben Carpenter, the New Roots for Refugees Education and Outreach Coordinator, can been found passing out free produce to customers that was grown at local refugee owned farms.

Kim Weaver is the Local Health Action Team Lead for Communities Organizing to Promote Equity or COPE. Her organization is the primary funder for the event and covers the utility bill and food for the day. Other funding and donations come from Laundry Love, the K-State Research Extension, Mothers of Wyandotte County, Keelers Woman Center, and Ladies of Pearl.

Its a beautiful thing. It really brings joy to my heart to know that somebody has been in a space that they couldnt do something and now were able to help them have access to clean clothes, Weaver said.

Catalina Luis, left, receives a free laundry bag from Kim Weaver while Elijah Ricketts stands by at Leahs Laundromat on the Q.

Community Laundry Day has become a lifeline to the community served by Leahs Laundromat on the Q at North 20th Street and Quindaro Buoulevard in Kansas City, Kansas.

Customers at Community Laundry Day wash their clothes at Leahs Laundromat on the Q. This is just another place where we could actually help people out and be a resource, John McPherson said.

Ben Carpenter places a bundle of green onions into Byron Kirkwoods bag during Community Laundry Day at Leahs Laundromat on the Q, Carpenter is the New Roots for Refugees Education and Outreach Coordinator and helps provide free produce for customers during the monthly event.

Bags of free cherry tomatoes are set out for customers at Community Laundry Day at Leahs Laundromat on the Q.

Cups of laundry detergent are offered free on Community Laundry Day at Leahs Laundromat on the Q.

Angel de la Cruz, left, plays a game on his phone while his brother Ian de la Cruz drinks milk and their mother, Catalina Luis stands near by on Community Laundry Day at Leahs Laundromat.

Leah McPherson, left, directs customers to washing machines at last months Community Laundry Day at Leahs Laundromat on the Q in Kansas City, Kansas. There was no way we were going to change this area around without injecting a lot of hope, a lot of stuff that people need in the community, Leahs husband John McPherson said.

Cheriah Seawood, left, Anotida Mafuvadze, and Chenel Seawood, read books together in the childrens corner at Leahs Laundromat. Community Laundry Day is staffed by a network of volunteers, health care workers, and community advocates who assist in providing help and social services to customers.

Customers eat free pizza and wait for their laundry to be finished on Community Laundry Day at Leahs Laundromat on the Q in Kansas City, Kansas. If someone comes in and needs to speak to someone because they dont have food, they dont have diapers, they dont have formula, theyre homeless, there is someone here for them to talk to, Leah McPherson said.

Clothing spins in a washing machine during Community Laundry Day on at Leahs Laundromat on the Q. Free loads of laundry are funded through COPE, a Kansas City, Kansas, based non profit that spearheaded the free laundry day.
View of the Guoliang Tunnel through the Wanxian Mountain in the Taihang Mountains in Huixian county, Xinxiang city, central China's Henan province, 7 November 2017.



An incredible view with a long way down

Roads have been a vital aspect of human society since time immemorial. People have always needed to transport themselves and goods from one place to another. Humanity has built roads across some of the worlds most inhospitable terrain. Some roads have lasted the test of time from when most travel was animal-powered into an age of motorized transportation. However, roads have been dangerous for just as long. Here are the most dangerous roads in the world:



Norways Atlanterhavsvegen

Photo: Gongora / Wikimedia Commons

The Atlantic Road in Norway is absolutely stunning. The 5.2-mile-long road connects a series of islands in the Norwegian Sea just off of the countrys coast. The swooping viaducts might be beautiful to stare at, but they are also subject to frigid climate and the Arctic winds coming off the ocean.

Read more

Photo: Micah Bochart / Wikimedia Commons

Ending this trilogy of dangerous northern roads is the Dalton Highway in Alaska. The 414-mile mostly gravel highway was built to support the dangers of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System during the 1970s. Because of the industrial focus behind the highways construction, it wasnt fully accessible to the general public until 1994.

Spring Street in Elizabeth, NJ

Image: Google

This stretch of US Route 1 and Route 9 made this list largely through poor design. The urban thoroughfare is located only two miles south of Newark Liberty International Airport and has two of the deadliest intersections in the United States.

Kabul-Kandahar Highway in Afghanistan

U.S. Spc. Ramiro Bojorquez watches a brightly decorated jingle truck pass on Highway 1 in Afghanistan's Ghazni province, April 20, 2012.

For the United States, the War in Afghanistan ended just over two years with its evacuation of the country and the subsequent collapse of its democratic government. The segment of the Afghanistan Ring Road is vital to the countrys economy, and a significant portion of the two-decade conflict revolved around restoring and defending the highway.

Chinas Tongtian Avenue

Tongtian Avenue is a seven-mile road that scales Tianmen Mountain to its summit. The mountain road is also referred to the 99-Bend Road To Heaven, an apt description of the narrow winding path. At the roads end is a 999-step stairway to a monumental natural arch referred to as the Stairway to Heaven.

Colorados Pikes Peak Highway

The Pikes Peak Highway is a 19-mile road that ascends to the summit of its titular mountain. The roadways danger has lessened for normal travelers as the highway has been paved all the way to the summit for the last decade. However, the famous Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is still dangerous for competition with many portions of the ascent allowing for cars to fly off the mountainside.

New Zealands Skippers Road

Photo: Road to Skippers. NZ / Wikimedia Commons

European settlers were drawn to Skippers Canyon in New Zealand by the prospect of striking it rich gold mining in the 19th century. A one-lane road was eventually built through the gorge in the 1890s to bring in heavy mining machinery. Much of the road remains unpaved as it was in the 19th century and is protected as a national heritage site.

Indias Zoji La Pass

Zoji La Pass in October 2013.

The Zoji La Pass in the Himalayan Mountains is treacherous, to say the least. The pass sits at 11,575 feet high and serves as a vital link between Ladakh and Kashmir. However, this pass can be completely closed off for months by blizzards. A tunnel is currently under construction to bypass the road and allow for travel for longer periods throughout the year.

Chinas Guoliang Tunnel

View of the Guoliang Tunnel through the Wanxian Mountain in the Taihang Mountains in Huixian county, Xinxiang city, central China's Henan province, 7 November 2017. A road winds through a cliff in Xinxiang, Henan Province.

The Guoliang Tunnels unique appearance was created by its method of construction. The residents of the remote Chinese village needed easier access to the outside world so they literally carved their own path. Villagers sold their livestock for tools and got to work. They hammered and chiseled their way at about a foot per day to create the 0.78-mile-long tunnel in 1977.

Indias Killar to Pangi Road

This 32.3-mile Himalayan path connects the Pangi Valley to the outside world. The single-lane unpaved trail is precariously routed along steep mountainsides. Heavy snowfall can leave the remote region isolated besides the helicopter service established by the government to assist with medical emergencies.

Bolivias North Yungas Road

View on foggy death road in the Yungas in Bolivia

The North Yungas Road in Bolivia is often referred to as the Death Road. This Bolivian road claimed up to 300 lives per year until the early 1990s. Rainy conditions, poor visibility, lack of guardrails and its single-lane width led to the astronomic death rate. The road has been made safer over the past 20 years by widening the roadway and adding safety improvements in places, and completely bypassing the route in other areas.

More from Jalopnik

Sign up for Jalopnik's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.
The last time we saw Haley Lu Richardson  at least, the White Lotus version of Haley Lu Richardson  her Portia was in an airport, leaving the murderous mayhem of Sicily (and one dead boss) behind and exchanging contacts on her phone with nice young Albie.

Now, in an amusing bit of symmetry, we rejoin the charming Richardson at an airport again in Love at First Sight  with another young man, this time trying but failing to get his contact info into her phone. (Spoiler alert: one really needs to keep ones phone charged when looking for love.)

It's this theme of missed connections  and fate, and inadequately charged iPhones  that anchors the plot of this sweet, often moving but also painfully corny rom-com that survives on the appeal of Richardson and also her co-star, Ben Hardy, a couple that could triumph over anyones saccharine dialogue.

The Netflix film, directed by Vanessa Caswill, is based on the popular YA novel The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight  a more interesting title, but one can understand the desire to avoid anything that could potentially be shortened in conversation to Statistical Probability (likely the least romantic title in the history of rom-coms).

In any case, those already fans of Jennifer E. Smiths book will need no prompting to root for this couple who meet cute at New York's John F. Kennedy Airport on December 20, which the films narrator tells us is the airport's busiest day of the year (the narration is full of such factoids). On this day, we learn, Hadley Ella Sullivan, American, age 20 and 65 inches tall, is traveling to London but misses her flight by four minutes.

And those four minutes will change everything, because waiting in the airport lounge is one Oliver Jones, age 22, a Brit studying statistics at at Yale, whose average phone battery life is 94 % (compared to Hadleys, which is 21 %  also the percentage of times she is late.)

The two meet when Oliver (As in Twist? says Hadley  see what we mean by corny?) offers his phone charger. Then they head to dinner, at which point they realize that they share a hatred for mayonnaise. We also learn that Hadley is heading to London for her fathers wedding to the woman he left her mom for.

As for Oliver, he indicates he's also traveling to a wedding, but hes actually traveling to something a lot sadder. The two end up sitting together on the plane, through yet another twist of fate, but maybe also because the flight attendant who seats them is the very same narrator (Jameela Jamil) who pops up throughout in different roles, sort of a hip fairy godmother.

In any case, the two talk all night, but get separated in the customs line the next morning. Before running off, Oliver gives Hadley his number, but it doesnt make it into her phone before she loses juice, yet again.

If youre like me, you might recall here Jesse and Celine, aka Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, who also fell in love, overnight, while traveling, in Before Sunrise and agreed to meet at the same place in six months. Celine couldnt make it, and poor Jesse, with no phone number, had to wait nine years and write a best-selling novel in a bid to find her.

This was before social media. Now, as our narrator acknowledges, there are so many ways to find someone: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter (or X). But even with those helpful tools, you need to know the persons last name. Somehow, Hadley and Oliver dont.

And then, through an ingenious, yep, twist of fate again, they find each other. And then, annoyingly, they lose each other again! Still with no name and no number! Really?!

The supporting cast features a few lovely performances, namely the very moving Sally Phillips and Dexter Fletcher as Olivers parents, a pair of Shakespeare-loving thespians struck by tragedy. As Hadleys father, Rob Delaney is saddled with some of the sappier lines in the script as he tries to explain his divorce to his daughter with piercing thoughts like Love is a lot of work.

Richardson, throughout, gives an empathetic and endearing performance, and Hardy matches her for charm, even if he doesnt convince as a self-described maths nerd. Both are playing college students about a decade younger, but well suspend the disbelief, because darnit, we want to see these kids get together!

We wont give the end away, but we can tell you  because the narrator told us  that 17.6 % of people walk away from the loves of their life.

Does that mean that 82.4 % walk in the opposite direction, toward love? More importantly, what percentage of sappy rom-coms end in romantic failure? The odds seem pretty good for Hadley and Oliver.

Love at First Sight, a Netflix release, has been rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association of America for brief strong language and some suggestive references.  Running time: 90 minutes. Two stars out of four.
The reward for a murder suspect who escaped a Washington DC hospital last week has increased to a whopping $30,000.

Christopher Haynes, 30, escaped custody at George Washington Hospital while an officer was changing his handcuffs. The suspect physically assaulted the officer and fled from the scene, according to police.

Police previously offered a $25,000 reward for information leading to Mr Haynes arrest.

Mr Haynes was arrested by the Capitol Area Regional Fugitive Task Force in Virginia in connection with a 12 August murder, according to a Tuesday press release from the Metropolitan Police. The suspect was brought to the hospital after complaining about pain from a pre-existing injury.

After he escaped, police searched a large area around the hospital and received numerous possible sightings of Haynes. As of Tuesday, the search for Mr Haynes remains active and ongoing, police said.

Anyone who is found to be assisting, aiding, abetting, or harboring Christopher Haynes will be criminally charged, police added.

Police previously released footage of Mr Haynes, seemingly showing Mr Haynes climbing into a fenced-in yard shortly after his hospital escape.

Mr Haynes is described as a black male, six feet tall, approximately 205 pounds with a medium brown complexion, with shoulder-length dreadlocks. He has black hair and brown eyes.

The 30-year-old was last seen wearing a black t-shirt and gray shorts underneath a white body suit. Police said Mr Haynes had black handcuffs hanging from his right wrist when he escaped the hospital.

Since his hospital escape, Metropolitan Police said on Tuesday that they have received numerous reports of possible sightings and are dedicating resources to each tip.

Police encouraged anyone with information about Mr Haynes whereabouts to call them. Officers previously warned people not to engage with Mr Haynes if they spot him.

Mr Haynes isnt the only one on the run this week. Pennsylvania police had engaged in an almost two-week-long manhunt for convicted killer Danelo Cavalcante. He was finally captured on Wednesday morning after breaking out of Chester County Prison on 31 August.

On top of already facing life in prison for murder, Cavalcante has now also been charged with felony escape over his prison break.
Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) is praising Sen. Mitt Romney after the Utah Republican announced his retirement, despite, she says, his preferred way to eat fish stinks.

Grateful to serve with @SenatorRomney, Murkowski wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Thursday, even if hes wrong about salmon!

Murkowskis fishy dig came a day after Romney announced he wouldnt seek reelection in 2024.

In an excerpt from a forthcoming biography on Romney published in The Atlantic shortly after the senators retirement announcement, journalist McKay Coppins recalled catching a glimpse inside the 76-year-old lawmakers fridge.

On the day of my first visit, he showed me his freezer, which was full of salmon fillets that had been given to him by Lisa Murkowski, the senator from Alaska, Coppins wrote.

He didnt especially like salmon, Coppins said of Romney, but found that if he put it on a hamburger bun and smothered it in ketchup, it made for a serviceable meal.

Last year, Alaskas salmon industry was valued at more than $720 million, according to the states Department of Fish and Game.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
(Bloomberg) -- The Senate Armed Services Committee is looking into national security issues raised by Elon Musk s decision not to extend the private Starlink satellite network to aid a Ukrainian attack on Russian warships near the Crimean coast.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Chairman Jack Reed said in a statement that the reports on the use of Starlink exposed serious national-security liability issues and the committee is engaged on this issue.

The committee is aggressively probing this issue from every angle, he said Thursday.

Musks SpaceX also has become a major US contractor, launching spy satellites for the Defense Department and operating the Starlink network. The company didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

Reed added that the committee would look at the broader satellite market, government contracting and the outsized role Mr. Musk and his company have taken here.

Neither Elon Musk, nor any private citizen, can have the last word when it comes to U.S. national security, Reed said.

Other Democratic senators on the committee, including Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, pressed Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin in a letter Friday for answers on why it was Musk  and not a US government official  deciding when Ukraine could use the satellite network.

SpaceX is a prime contractor and a critical industry partner for the DoD and the recipient of billions of dollars in taxpayer funding, they said. We are deeply concerned with the ability and willingness of SpaceX to interrupt their service at Mr. Musks whim and for the purpose of handcuffing a sovereign countrys self-defense, effectively defending Russian interests.

The senators asked for a detailed accounting by Oct. 31 of incidents where SpaceX or others disabled services in Ukraine, what obligations the Defense Department puts on contractors like SpaceX, and whether the Defense Production Act or other provisions could play a role in ensuring continuity of service. The senators also raised concerns about the potential for disruption of Starlink or other commercial services by other allies and partners, including Taiwan.

Musk said earlier this week on the All-In Podcast that he would have extended Starlink for the Ukrainians in Crimea if President Joe Biden had directed him to do so, but no such directive came.

Musk said on the podcast that Starlink had been turned off over Crimea originally because of US sanctions on Russia.

At the time of Ukraines request last year, Musk wasnt getting any US funding for Starlinks operations in Ukraine, although it currently is supported with Pentagon funds.

A congressional aide who asked not to be named to discuss internal deliberations said the panel is not yet launching a formal investigation but rather gathering information.

Shaheen said in a brief interview she has asked administration officials during classified briefings about control over the use of Starlink in Ukraine and has not gotten answers.

--With assistance from Loren Grush.

(Updates with senators letter, starting in seventh paragraph.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Elon Musk , the American billionaire and Tesla and SpaceX founder, has refused to answer questions about the damage caused to Ukraine by the shutdown of Starlinks, or questions about compliments from Russian dictator Vladimir Putin.

Source: Sky News

Details: A reporter from the TV channel met Musk as he was leaving a meeting at the Federal Aviation Administration in Washington.

The journalist asked Musk several times whether his ignorance and ego had cost Ukrainian lives.

Musk ignored his questions.

Musk also did not reply when asked whether he appreciated being called "outstanding" by President Putin.

Background:

CNN, which obtained an excerpt from Musk's biography written by American journalist and author Walter Isaacson, reported that in 2022 Musk supposedly secretly ordered the disconnection of Starlink communications off the coast of Crimea to disrupt Ukraine's attack on the Russian navy in Sevastopol.

Musk confirmed the disruption of the drone attack on the Russian fleet in Crimea. The billionaire said that he did not switch off the Starlink satellite connection for the drones, but when Ukraine requested it be turned on, he refused. He also reiterated the "need for a truce".

Vadym Skibitskyi, a representative from Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, said that the information that Musk had ordered the disconnection of Starlink over Crimea to disrupt the attack on the Russian fleet should be thoroughly checked.

US Senator Elizabeth Warren has demanded an investigation into SpaceX.

There was also a large-scale disruption of Starlink on the night of 12-13 September during a Ukrainian attack on Sevastopol Bay.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
(Bloomberg) -- Elon Musk plans to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu next week in Silicon Valley as the worlds richest man faces increasing criticism over antisemitism on his social media platform X.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The meeting will happen before Netanyahu attends the United Nations General Assembly in New York, according to Topaz Luk, a spokesperson for the premier. The Washington Post first reported the planned meeting.

It comes as both Musk and Netanyahu face intense public criticism. Musk is in an escalating row with the Anti-Defamation League, a Jewish civil rights group he accuses of undermining Xs advertising revenue. The ADL has, together with other civil rights watchdogs, highlighted a rise in extremist content on the platform formerly known as Twitter after Musk took it over last year and fired most of its staff.

Musk earlier this month threatened to sue the ADL and has liked X posts that used a BantheADL hashtag. Last week Musk said hes pro free speech but against anti-Semitism of any kind.

The ADL said in a statement that Israel and Jews are frequently targets of hateful anti-Zionist, and antisemitic invectives on X and that it hopes Netanyahu and Musk have a productive meeting and talk about ways to combat hate speech on the platform.

For Netanyahu, the meeting comes after his efforts to weaken Israels judiciary have sparked months of protests that are supported by many of the countrys tech entrepreneurs.

The prime minister, who has long cast himself as the leader who transformed Israels economy into a business-friendly tech hub, has recently sought to showcase the countrys potential in the field of artificial intelligence.

Netanyahus office in June said he spoke on the phone with Musk about AI.

Israeli tech workers living in the Bay Area are planning a demonstration to coincide with the premiers visit on Monday, according to Offir Gutelzon, who is helping organize the protest.

--With assistance from Ethan Bronner.

(Updates with statement from ADL in fifth paragraph)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and billionaire Elon Musk are planning to meet next week to address tensions surrounding the rise of antisemitism on the Musk-owned X social media platform, formerly known as Twitter.

The prime ministers office announced the meeting, scheduled for Monday in the U.S., which will also include discussions on artificial intelligence.

The meeting comes as Musk, who purchased the social media platform last October, has been accused of allowing the spread of antisemitism and hate speech on the site.

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) recently called Musk out on the matter, with ADL chief Jonathan Greenblatt saying Musk has amplified the messages of neo-Nazis and white supremacists who want to ban their organization.

Musk pushed back against Greenblatts claims, accusing the organization chief in a series of X posts last week of falsely accusing him of being antisemitic, which resulted in his site losing revenue.

Since the acquisition, The @ADL has been trying to kill this platform by falsely accusing it & me of being anti-Semitic, Musk wrote in his post. Our US advertising revenue is still down 60%, primarily due to pressure on advertisers by @ADL (thats what advertisers tell us), so they almost succeeded in killing X/Twitter!

Musk also claimed that his site would file a defamation claim against ADL, saying that the lawsuit would accuse the organization of destroying half the value of the company, which he valued at $22 billion.

Since Musks acquisition, X has undergone a slew of changes, including the removal of blue verification badges and limiting the number of direct messages a user can see.

Greenblatt, who recently met with X CEO Linda Yaccarino, said hes willing to work with the platform on addressing the antisemitism issue.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Hammond man was sentenced to more than 12 years in prison on Tuesday after admitting he sold $40 worth of crack cocaine to an undercover informant.

Johnny Rico Wilbourn, 42, formerly of Chicago, signed a plea deal with federal prosecutors in June 2022, pleading guilty one count of distribution of cocaine. His exact sentence is 151 months with another two years probation.

Advertisement

Court records show he admitted selling about .2 grams on Aug. 27, 2020 out of his Hammond home. Wilbourn said in documents that three people  including co-defendant Henry Scott  helped him. Only Scott was indicted, records show.

The men sold drugs a handful of times to an informant between August and September 2020, his original indictment shows. During a search warrant on Sept. 29, 2020, police found 45 grams of fentanyl, a cutting agent, digital scale, two gun magazines, ammunition and $1,100 cash.

Advertisement

Court records indicated Wilbourn has prior convictions for murder, manufacturing cocaine and retail theft.

Co-defendant Henry Scott was sentenced to 10 years on Wednesday with two more years probation after signing a plea deal, court records show.
The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory predicting large breaking waves of 5 to 8 feet, the water conditions are being caused by Hurricane Lee churning off the South Carolina coast.

The alert is effective from noon on Thursday, Sept. 14 to Saturday, Sept. 16 at 2 a.m.

The alert says that conditions for surfing and swimming along Horry County beaches will be dangerous and warns that rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water.

Those rip currents contributed to Myrtle Beach being named one of the most dangerous beaches in the U.S. in a recent study.





SC has one of the deadliest beaches in the US, ranking shows. Heres where

Check with the nearest lifeguard and heed flag warnings posted above all area lifeguard stands.

However, local surfers may be bummed that the website Swellinfo.com predicts that the biggest waves to occur on Friday morning at 3-4+ feet in the Myrtle Beach area, but expects those shoulder to head-high waves to be choppy and bumpy with North winds of 10 to 15 mph.

Live beach webcams throughout the Myrtle Beach area will allow viewers to check out the wave conditions in real-time.
Who would have imagined that a British economists musings would lead to the formation of a block of nations with the intent to create an alternative to the US- led international system. But thats exactly how the BRICS came about, after Goldman-Sachs chief economist Jim ONeil used that term in a paper in 2001 as short for Brazil, Russia, India and China -- countries he believed would offer exceptional future investment opportunities because of their spectacular growth.

The BRIC nations only embraced the concept of forming a group in 2006 when their foreign ministers held an informal meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, and their first formal conference wasnt until 2009. The (S) was added in 2010 when South Africa was invited to join.

The BRICS reason for being, from the start, was their overall unhappiness with the Wests domination of the global order. This included resentment of institutions like the G7 (Group of Seven) an informal club of the Wests leading economies, the US Dollar serving as the worlds reserve currency, and what they saw as Americas hegemonistic global role. Their meetings were little more than gripe-fests over global unfairness, and their goals seemed mere fantasies: to create their own currency to compete with and eventually replace the US$; to articulate and advocate a non-aligned foreign policy; and to reduce Americas global influence.

Their goals seem less far-fetched today as the group has evolved from symbolism to substance. Starting out, the BRICS represented a mere 8% of the worlds economy vs 65% for the G7. Now its BRICS 36% and the G7 at 43%. And the group now holds 42% of global population, including the two most populous countries: India and China. The group has also created two international financial institutions  serving as mini-versions of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank  to help member central banks swap hard currency in case of need and for members to fund projects. But the most eye-opening development was that at their just- concluded annual meeting, the BRICS admitted six new members: Ethiopia, Egypt, Iran, Argentina, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates  from an alleged group of 40 nations seeking membership.

Nagy

Doubters about the BRICS significance make some valid points. Unlike the G7, there is no political commonality within the group, with governments representing rogue states (Iran), dictatorships (Russia, China), absolute monarchies (UAE, Saudi), authoritarian regimes (Egypt, Ethiopia) and democracies (Argentina, Brazil, India, South Africa). They also have differing views of the US and West, from hostility to neutrality to cooperation. In addition, some members have serious disputes with each other: Saudi Arabia vs Iran, China vs India, and Egypt vs Ethiopia. And even their economic policies vary greatly  from strict state control (China) to relatively open systems (Argentina, Brazil).

However, there are also important commonalities. The group now represents some of the worlds major oil producers (Saudi, UAE, Iran, Russia) and consumers (India, China) and four key Middle East nations, where China seeks to increase its influence. And all of the members are

keen to see the US dollar lose its vaulted reserve status and Americas influence diminish. But most worryingly, China sees the group as a forum it can dominate and use to elevate itself to a status equal with the US and eventually step up as the world leader. So, while knowledgeable observers may be right that the BRICS are not ready for prime time today, we should not discount its future potential as a global force. When 40 nations are eager to join a group, we need to pay attention.

We know from history, and Ive seen in my diplomatic career, how America underestimates threats, or even contributes to them - like encouraging Chinas rise - before waking up. Today China, and to a certain extent Russia, are eclipsing our influence and eating our diplomatic lunch in many key areas of the world. And we are actively aiding those who want to replace our currency as the worlds reserve by weaponizing the US Dollar through overuse of sanctions. This makes other nations look for alternatives. The Cold War may have been the bad old days, but unlike today, we were then adept at using all of our means to advance Americas global interests. Now, we may be the frog in the pot; while the water hasnt started boiling yet, its getting warmer.

Ambassador Tibor Nagy was most recently Assistant Secretary of State for Africa after serving as Texas Techs Vice Provost for International Affairs and a 30-year career as a US Diplomat. Follow him on Twitter @TiborPNagyJr

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Tibor Nagy do the BRICS threaten Americas role in the world?
Naomi Klein's "Doppelganger: A Trip Into the Mirror World" is a difficult book to describe. I'll cut to the chase by saying that it stands alongside Klein's bestsellers "No Logo" and "The Shock Doctrine" as a crucial study of the ways that identity, image, ideology and economics become intertwined in the bewildering conditions of 21st-century consumer capitalism, and is in many ways a subtler and more challenging work than either of those. It's a book that could only have emerged from the pandemic era, but is only indirectly about the multiple crises of politics and public health caused by COVID. More fundamentally, it's an exploration of a cluster of disturbing and poorly understood phenomena that the pandemic revealed or accelerated, but were already there: The division of our politics and culture into incompatible realms of perceived reality, not unlike the mirror universes of "Star Trek," and the merciless commodification of the individual self, which in Klein's reading has undermined community, social movements and the possibility of collective action.

If you've picked up the idea somewhere that Klein has written a book about the experience of being repeatedly confused with someone she sometimes calls "the other Naomi"  meaning Naomi Wolf, onetime feminist crusader and now, bafflingly, an adjunct member of far-right conspiracy culture  that is both true and untrue. It's untrue at the most important level; no one could actually read "Doppelganger" and come away believing that its real subject is Klein's sense of narcissistic injury, or an attempt to defend her personal brand from the damage inflicted by a less desirable Naomi. But it is undeniably where the book starts, and also approximately where it ends: Klein writes with considerable humor and honesty about the contradictions and challenges created by the perceptual blur between her image and Wolf's. They are both outspoken Jewish women and bestselling authors. They are generically similar in appearance, especially when encountered as social media avatars. Over the course of their careers both have been associated, broadly speaking, with left-liberal-progressive politics. (Yes, Klein is familiar with the social media mnemonic used to differentiate them, which she traces back to 2019: "If the Naomi be Klein/ you're doing just fine/ If the Naomi be Wolf/ Oh, buddy. Ooooof.")

As Klein observes, it didn't help matters that she and Wolf were both vocal critics of certain aspects of official policy early in the pandemic, and even had overlapping targets: Klein "was furious when Bill Gates sided with the drug companies" on vaccine patents, and argued "that this lobbying helped keep the shots out of the arms of millions of the poorest people on the planet." Wolf "was furious that people were being pushed to get vaccinated at all and boosted conspiracies about Bill Gates using vaccines to track people and to usher in a sinister world order." Klein confesses that it sometimes felt as if Wolf had fed Klein's ideas into a "bonkers blender" and then spoon-fed the resulting incoherent mishmash directly to Tucker Carlson and Steve Bannon.

I would take the analysis one step further than Klein does: In our conversation, she describes Naomi Wolf as the White Rabbit who led her into the irrational, counterfactual "mirror world" that lies below the surface of normative cultural and political discourse, and mockingly reflects or magnifies all its failures, evasions and silences. The problem for Naomi Klein, however, is that to many people who yearn to return to some (largely imaginary) pre-Trump, pre-COVID state of normalcy and shared reality, she too resembles a denizen of the mirror world. Klein is an unrepentant leftist and anti-capitalist, a former Bernie Sanders campaign surrogate and frequent critic of the Democratic Party mainstream. She blames the corrosive spread of the Wolf-Bannon-Carlson mirror world  the "fascist clown-state" beneath our purported democracy  largely, if not entirely, on the failures of mainstream politics in general and liberalism in particular.

I largely agree, for the record. But that isn't the kind of opinion that gets you on MSNBC or helps build broad pro-democracy coalitions, and I suspect that amid the societal attention-deficit disorder of the last several years, a vague sense emerged that both Naomis held troubling or uncomfortable or unpalatable views, which contributed to their chameleonic identity collapse. That points toward the real challenge Klein confronts in "Doppelganger," which is not about her and Naomi Wolf but something much bigger. When we come face to face with a double or doppelganger or mirror image  of ourselves, of our society, of our system of thought  and find it disturbing or repulsive, do we push it away and deny any kinship with the reflection? Or do we look straight at it and ask ourselves who we really are?

Watch Naomi Klein's "Salon Talks" episode here or read a Q&A of our conversation below to hear more about the dark "mirror world" of right-wing influencers, capitalism and the "personal brand" and why Klein prefers the term "conspiracy culture" over "conspiracy theories."

The following transcript has been lightly edited for length and clarity.

I had really interesting reactions from two people I like and respect when I told them I was reading your book. One of them basically said, "What a hilarious concept for a book. You go ahead and read that if you want to." The second person was like, "Well, that's the most New York thing I've ever heard."

By New York, did they mean Jewish?

Well, I hope not. I think they meant "media insider." But what struck me was the willingness to leap to the assumption that you had written some intensely narcissistic account of your possibly-obsessive relationship with this other person who shares your first name and certain other characteristics. Have you run into that before?

I don't think people necessarily share those reactions with me, per se. [Laughter.] But I was aware that this book would be misunderstood as a concept until it entered the world, which is part of the reason why we didn't tell anyone about it for a much longer time than is the usual case with publishing. Usually a book is announced as soon as it's signed by the publisher, and we kept it secret for at least a year. That was actually hard. There were a lot of NDAs that needed to be signed to do that!

The main reason we wanted to keep it under wraps was precisely because we knew that it would be misunderstood. There were a couple of months where the idea of the book preceded the book where people were like, "Oh my God, she wrote an entire book about ..." and she didn't.

I will testify to that. She didn't.

No, I mean, for me Naomi Wolf is like the White Rabbit in "Alice in Wonderland."

Yes, that's exactly right.

"I was aware that this book would be misunderstood as a concept until it entered the world, which is the reason why we didn't tell anyone about it for a much longer time than is usual."

I think she is an interesting case study for a certain kind of political migration from left to right, or liberal to right. Her story is interesting and it's a thread, but the book is really not about her. It's much more about the phenomenon of doubling and doppelgangers as a lens through which to understand the hall of mirrors of digital culture and personal branding and AI, but also the doubling that I think we most fear, which is the way whole societies can flip into their evil twins. She's a literary technique, and now that the book is out there, I feel actually really gratified that people are getting it. But there had to be a period where  listen, even my parents were like, "What?"

Well, you go at this pretty directly in the book, the sense that maybe this was an ill-advised project. You certainly had people suggesting that to you.

Well, the first line is, "In my defense, it was never my intent to write this book. No one asked me to, and several people strongly cautioned against it. Some of them were in my own family."

To be clear, we are talking about Naomi Wolf, the author of "The Beauty Myth," who is not the same person as you. Naomi Wolf has become, and perhaps this is an oversimplification, something of a COVID denialist, a frequent guest on Steve Bannon's podcast, a spreader of all sorts of controversial and conspiratorial ideas and movements. You go from the idea that Naomi Wolf was a kind of doppelganger for you, a double or a distorted mirror image, to the entire sphere that she now inhabits as a dark mirror of normal politics and left-liberal politics. What was the process that led you there?

I think there's something very interesting about having a doppelganger in that we live in a society where insecurity is rampant, interpersonal insecurity, economic insecurity. One of the things that we have been sold collectively about how we can hold on with our fingernails in this culture is by building our own brand. There was one point where somebody online said, "Well, Naomi Klein should sue Naomi Wolf for trademark infringement." I thought that was really funny because my first book was called "No Logo" and it was about the rise of this idea of the lifestyle brand, but also the human brand. It was tracking the first stage of this idea that humans should fashion themselves as products.

I feel like the concept of the personal brand didn't quite exist when you wrote that book, at least not in the way it does now.

It existed for celebrities. I have a whole chapter about Michael Jordan's agent saying that he was the first superbrand, and there was Richard Branson and Oprah. But the idea that everyday people who don't have marketing firms behind them could be brands was a silly idea that we understood in our '90s brains to be essentially a sop offered to us instead of job security. Like, "Don't worry, you all got laid off. You can be your own brands. It all will be well."

"We should be paying very, very close attention to what issues are being warped in the mirror world ahead of 2024."

It wasn't until "No Logo" came out just on the cusp of 1999 and 2000 and a few years later, the iPhone happens, Facebook, later Twitter. Then this idea that we thought was absurd becomes actually feasible. You've got a marketing agency in your back pocket with your iPhone. Social media takes very little overhead to create that glowing, perfected, idealized version of yourself, whatever that may be. I had always wanted to go back to that material because it has changed so much.

I had this weird experience after "No Logo" was published of having a lot of journalists accuse me of being a brand, because the book did turn me into a brand. There was a line of "No Logo" olive oil that somebody launched as well as a "No Logo" restaurant in Geneva that was pretty seedy, a good craft beer in England. To be honest with you, I just ran screaming in the other direction. This was not what I had intended.

My later books, "The Shock Doctrine" and "This Changes Everything," really had nothing to do with marketing or branding. That was me being a bad brand and just trying to get back to basics of why I wanted to be a journalist and do this work. But it was nagging away at me that there was something very important going on with the way the logics of branding had entered our very souls and our interpersonal relationships and our channels of communication and our social movements. This is a really critical piece that preoccupies me: what that does to our ability to organize and be in solidarity. It occurred to me that I had been given a kind of gift, which was my own branding crisis, to come back to it, but not at a distance, to come back to it from the inside to wrestle with, I have a branding crisis and also I don't believe in brands, so what do we do with that?

That essential conflict is at the heart of this book. Even thinking back to those people who made assumptions about what your book is about, they were leaping to the somewhat logical conclusion that it was essentially a defense of your personal brand against somebody who had infringed on it. That's right smack in the universe of this book, which to me is about a certain crisis of the self in whatever we want to call this society, liberal capitalism or something, and how that crisis interferes with solidarity, with community, things like that.

What it comes down to is this is hard work. This is labor. The labor of constructing a perfected self in the form of the brand that must be maintained through repetition, through discipline, through other forms of doubling that I look at in the book, like the perfected body, because of course the idealized well, fit, immuno-strong body became very political during COVID. That was one of the diagonal lines between the far right and the "far out," a particular stream in the wellness world that had sold this idea that you can deal with all of your fears and insecurities by perfecting your own body. It's a kind of body prepper-ism. And then there's the way we perfect our kids and think of our kids as almost brand extensions. We think about the Trumps, like a family of brand extensions. That's an extreme example.

What it comes down to for me is this: What aren't we building when we're building our brands? Because all of this is a lot of work. It is not a small undertaking to do that much performing and polishing and perfecting and optimizing, and we are only on this Earth for a finite number of hours. We can tell ourselves, "Oh, this isn't really me. I'm just doing this because I have to do it." But ultimately we do happen to be living at a time where we are confronting these intersecting and interlocking emergencies of surging authoritarianism, the climate crisis banging down our doors and just gaping inequalities and injustices. As all of those crises fuel one another, we have a lot of work to do, and it isn't work that we can do as atomized individuals. These are global forces. If we stand a chance in hell, it's because we get out of our own way and out of our own heads and act in true solidarity and camaraderie with one another. So that's what interests me about the labor of the self and the way that it's theft from the labor of building those networks and structures.

That whole universe that you call the "mirror world, that Naomi Wolf now inhabits, is a fairly recent invention, obviously fueled by Donald Trump, by QAnon, by Jan. 6 and definitely by the COVID pandemic. It's an entire universe of right-wing influencers and conspiracy theorists. People like Steve Bannon and Alex Jones are the stars, but there are countless others. You point out that those people are providing a sense of community, even if it's a fake or dangerous form of community, and also that it's a mistake for those of us who think that we're the normal people with rational views to dismiss them entirely, not to take them seriously.

Yeah, I think that's all right. Another reaction I got to the book was, "Why would you give them attention? Why would you give them a platform?" I find that one the most interesting because, frankly, it's so arrogant to imagine that we are the ones in control of all the attention, and if we don't give them our attention, they basically don't exist.

That was one of the things that interested me most about Naomi Wolf. When she spread a lot of medical misinformation, particularly around "vaccine shedding" and its supposed impact on fertility, that was part of the reason why she was de-platformed from Twitter for a while. She is back now, of course. I think there was something else about bioweapons that may have been the trigger, but whatever it was, when she was kicked off Twitter, she had been one of left and liberal Twitter's favorite punching bags for a long time. I should know 'cause I often took the blows.

"If we stand a chance in hell, it's because we get out of our own way and out of our own heads and act in true solidarity and camaraderie with one another."

There was literally a tweet that was like, "Ding dong, the witch is dead." There was much rejoicing, mean little video montages of all of her worst takes. The feeling was that she had been deleted from Planet Earth. Because I had already started this research, I knew that in fact she had a much larger platform. She was on Bannon's show, during some periods every single day. He has millions of listeners, and every single day for two weeks she was on that show. She's more like a co-host than a regular guest. At one point, they published a book together, they've put out T-shirts together. It's the oddest buddy movie you could really imagine.

She was also on Tucker Carlson's show before he got yanked. She's been on Jordan Peterson. But the point is, we do not have the power to make these people disappear. This idea that just by denying them attention, we are going to somehow minimize their power  no, we should give them attention and understand what is happening. That's what I tried to do. It's obviously not uncritical attention, but I'm trying to understand what the appeal is. I want to understand less what Wolf is getting out of Bannon, which is obvious: She's getting a platform after she lost one, but what is he getting out of her? What does it mean for him to make an alliance with this prominent feminist Democrat who on some level stands for everything that he opposes?

I'm interested in how, when something becomes an issue in the mirror world, it then becomes untouchable in our world. Once they say it, then we have to just do the opposite. Considering that Bannon's skill as a strategist is looking at the people and issues that the Democratic Party has abandoned and mixing them in with his pre-existing xenophobic, racist agenda and authoritarian agenda, the worst thing we can do is just to be reactive and say, "Oh, well, if they're talking about surveillance, we're not. If they're talking about Big Pharma, we're not." It is almost like reverse marionettes.

Related

Shutting down the right-wing rabbit hole is possible: First, follow the money

Yeah, I think this should be obvious to people, but you don't have to agree with anything that is said in the mirror world to understand that the anxieties that drive people there are real. Anxieties about technology and surveillance are real.

Big Pharma, also real.

As you point out, it was really dumb that the question of how and where COVID actually started became politicized in the way that it did. I mean, I don't know. You don't know. We probably will never know. But to decide that it had to be one answer, basically for tribal or political reasons, was another example of giving those people on the far right a gift.

Oh, absolutely. I've been watching Bannon do this move for a while, because I came up in the counter-globalization movement and we had a strong critique of these corporate free trade deals. That was a centerpiece of the movements I was a part of. Those issues were really abandoned by the Democratic Party and by center-left parties around the world. And we saw them turn into this warped mirror in the hands of Bannon, in the hands of Giorgia Meloni in Italy. That worked for them in 2016. We should be paying very, very close attention to what issues are being warped in the mirror world ahead of 2024.

Yeah, and when the Democrats finally figured out that these "free trade" deals were massively unpopular they just dropped the whole issue and don't talk about it anymore. I feel like that silence, that erasure is really weird. They've just forgotten that for 30 years or more, they supported a reorganization of the global economy that was a huge failure. That's just bizarre.

Yeah, it is. We're talking about Steve Bannon, but look at somebody like RFK Jr., whose whole campaign is like a weird doppelganger of Bernie's campaign, in the sense that he's actually quite good at naming the corporate capture of regulatory agencies, taking on the military industrial complex. Sometimes when he talks about Big Pharma, I agree with him. A lot of the time I don't, especially when he is peddling vaccine autism myths, but the real issue is that he doesn't have an offer. He's not talking about universal health care like Bernie was. He's not talking about raising the minimum wage like Bernie was. He's just using the juice in these issues that are no longer really front of the discourse among Democrats. Ceding that ground is very dangerous. You can't blame strategists for being strategic, and it's very strategic to pick up the issues and the people that your opponents have carelessly left unattended.

Is it a mistake to always default to the view that the people in the mirror universe are driven by the coarsest possible factors, by racism and greed, for example? Those things certainly play a role, but is it a mistake not to attribute genuine beliefs or genuine ideology to those people?

I think it's a mistake to generalize about those people generally, because we're talking about a huge sector of the population. It's absolutely the case that there are people driven primarily by white supremacy, and it's absolutely the case that for some people, their No. 1 issue is transphobia. But it's a pretty motley crew that we're talking about here.

"It's so arrogant to imagine that we are the ones in control of all the attention, and if we don't give them our attention, they basically don't exist."

One of the things that interests me is that there's very little economic education in our culture. There's very little political education, but in terms of actually understanding how the economy works, how capitalism, the system we're all inside works, how it functions, I don't know. I did not learn it in school. If you do learn about it, you're going to learn that it's freedom and French fries and rainbows and the best possible system. I think a lot of this happens because of that lack of economic literacy, in terms of what the system was built to do, that it is a system that is pretty much an enclosure and profit-making machine. I mean, the history of neoliberal capitalism that I tell in "The Shock Doctrine" has some conspiracies in it. I'm talking to you on the 50th anniversary of the overthrow of Salvador Allende, and there's some pretty conspiratorial behavior that led to that event. We have the documents.

What interests me about conspiracy culture  I call it culture as opposed to theory, because there's often not a real coherent theory. It's throwing stuff at the wall. It's more like climate change denialism where you just say, "Hey, it's sunspots, it's not happening. It's happening, but we'll be fine." I mean, the point is to spread doubt. But I think that a lot of what is motivating people is that they were told that this system was fair, and their experience is that it's not fair. They know they're getting screwed, but when you don't have anybody who's actually explaining to you how this economy was built and giving you any systemic analysis, if somebody says, "Oh, it's actually a room full of Jews."

This is why antisemitism was called the "socialism of fools." It's why the Trotskyists and the rest of them took political education so seriously. In a sense you could see all of those pamphlets explaining the system as a way of saying, it's not just the moneylender who's responsible for all your woes. This is a system that was built to have an underclass. It has to have an underclass in order to function. I think we should try to understand that and we should try to do that work. It's not going to get everybody, and there's definitely lots of people who are never coming back from those worlds. But I don't think we should be writing everyone off.

Related

"We want a contract": Greed and racism are why Amazon denies its workers unions, says labor leader

You discuss this in the book and you discussed it in an interview with the New Yorker this week: There's the painful difficulty of writing from the perspective of a leftist or progressive, when you feel like you're saying the same things over and over again and it's not necessarily working. I have felt that personally and professionally for the last several years. It felt like this book was your way of writing yourself out of that. Did it work?

It did work, yeah. Thanks for asking. I think I was feeling depleted from a content perspective of just like, "OK, am I just going to say the exact same thing again? We really are out of time. We really need to do this." I had lost faith in that register for my voice. I thought, "Well, maybe if I can get interested in form, then I'll remember why I wanted to be a writer in the first place." That was originally what drew me to this project: It was interesting formally to take having a doppelganger as a narrow aperture to look at all of these different areas that interested me. But in the end I got interested in the content too. I do feel that it's had a steadying effect on me personally, out of where I started in a very vertiginous state.

So there really is a therapeutic aspect to this book, in addition to the political and cultural heavy lifting.

It will make you feel better.

Watch more

"Salon Talks" about "the mirror world"
NASA announced Thursday that it has appointed a director of research to study UFOs  or what the U.S. government calls unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs).

Nicola Fox, the associate administrator for NASAs Science Mission Directorate, confirmed the agency have appointed a person to the role but declined to release their name, only noting the individual has worked for the agency for a while.

They are being tasked with developing and overseeing the implementation of NASAs vision for UAP research, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said of the newly appointed director during a press conference Thursday. We will use NASAs expertise to work with other agencies to analyze UAP.

Nelson added that the agency will use artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to search the skies for anomalies and vowed to share their findings in a transparent manner.

The announcement follows the release of a report from an independent study panel tasked with looking into how NASA can assist ongoing government efforts to gain information on the intelligence of UAPs.

The agency head called the report the agencys first concrete action to seriously study UAPs, adding that he hopes the report will transition the conversation about UAPs from sensationalism to science.

At NASA, its in our DNA to explore  and to ask why things are the way they are, he said.

Lawmakers in recent months have expressed frustration with the lack of available information about unknown objects flying in restricted U.S. airspace.

The House Oversight and Accountability Committee heard from witnesses in July who pushed for greater transparency in how the government handles reports of UAPs. The witnesses accused the Pentagon of withholding information related to the unidentified objects and called for centralized reporting databases moving forward.

In the reports recommendations, the panel noted the detection of UAPs often lack the necessary data to make conclusions, and NASA thus must play a prominent role in the whole-of government efforts.

At present, the detection of UAP is often serendipitous, captured by sensors that were not designed or calibrated for this purpose, and which lack comprehensive metadata, the panel wrote. Coupled with incomplete data archiving and curation, this means the origin of numerous UAP remain uncertain.

The researchers argued that new systematic data gathering techniques needed to be used in combination with AI and machine learning to further UAP research.

NASA is uniquely positioned to contribute a robust and systematic approach to studying UA, furthering its mission of advancing scientific knowledge, technical expertise, and exploration, the report reads.

The panel  made up of 16 experts across different disciplines  also recommended the agency to utilize its existing assets to observe the local environmental conditions associated with UAPs to determine if there is a connection.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
NASA released its first report on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAPs), aka UFOs, on Thursday.

NASA also created a new position to lead UAP research, but officials wouldn't say who they appointed.

NASA officials cited harassment concerns, but the agency quietly shared the new UAP chief's name hours later.

NASA created a new position to lead research on UFOs, but officials were initially cagey about who got the job.

Mark McInerney is NASA's new director of research into Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP)  mysterious zipping objects in the sky that Navy pilots have seen, unidentified lights, or sometimes just balloons  more commonly referred to as UFOs.

McInerney was previously serving as a liaison between NASA and the Department of Defense, "covering limited UAP activities," according to NASA. Before that, he was a meteorologist for the National Weather Service for over a decade, then moved to NASA to work on Earth-science data.

The announcement came alongside a highly anticipated NASA report on UAP. Published on Thursday, the report asserted that there is no evidence these mystery phenomena have extraterrestrial origins.

This conclusion comes after nearly a year of assessing these mysterious aerial sightings by an independent study team NASA formed to take a science-based approach to UAPs.

The report gives recommendations for further study, such as using AI to sift through haystacks of data for the tiny needle of an unusual occurrence.

As part of its new plan to tackle mysterious phenomena, NASA created McInerney's new position: director of UAP research.

Hours after officials refused to say who got the job  an uncharacteristic bout of secrecy for the agency  NASA quietly updated a press release to add McInerney's identity.

NASA officials said they wouldn't name McInerney for fear of harassment

"We don't know what these UAP are. That's why I'm announcing that NASA has appointed a NASA director of UAP research," Bill Nelson, NASA's administrator, said in a press briefing about the new UAP report on Thursday.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson speaks in Colorado Springs, Colorado. NASA/Bill Ingalls

Nicola Fox, associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate, said that someone had been serving as the director for "awhile" now.

NASA officials in the briefing repeatedly emphasized their commitment to transparency in the ongoing study of UAPs. But when reporters asked who the new director is, Fox responded: "We will not give his name out."

Later on, officials explained that online harassment was part of the reason they were keeping the role of director of UAP research anonymous.

"Some of the threats and the harassment have been beyond the pale, quite frankly, towards some of our panelists," said Daniel Evans, assistant deputy associate administrator for research at NASA's Science Mission Directorate. "It's important that science be free as part of that process."

The new report includes a brief job description for the director of UAP research, saying they will "centralize communications and leverage NASA's extensive resources and expertise to actively engage in the whole-of-government UAP initiative. This individual will also ensure that the agency's vast analytical capabilities, including its proficiency in data management, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, are contributed to the government's unified UAP effort."

When Evans was asked if NASA would ever disclose the director's identity, he answered "Potentially, yes," but did not say when the agency might do so.

This story was updated after publication with the news of NASA naming Mark McInerney as the director of UAP research. It was originally published on September 14, 2023.

Read the original article on Business Insider
What NASA said in its long-awaited report on UFOs. Hunter Biden was indicted on federal gun charges. And New England is bracing for an onslaught from Hurricane Lee.

 Hey there! Im Laura Davis, and its time for Thursdays news.

 But first: Climate change isnt just creating havoc for the living. Its coming for our dead. Heres a look at the grave situation.

The Short List is a snappy USA TODAY news roundup. Subscribe to the newsletter here.

Is there life out there? No new evidence (yet)

Sorry Earthlings, there's still no evidence that alien spaceships have visited our planet, but on Thursday NASA vowed to continue studying the UFO phenomenon using some spiffy new scientific techniques. In a long-awaited report, experts outlined ways in which NASA can partner with public and private organizations to better understand unidentified flying objects. Long considered a fringe topic, UFOs have increasingly become part of the mainstream discussion as reports and videos of objects maneuvering in strange ways captivate the public. But because of the potential threat posed to national security and air safety, NASA embarked in 2022 on the space agency's first study of UFOs, and the agency wants to "shift the conversation surrounding UFOs from sensationalism to science."  Here's what we know.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson at a press conference on UFO research Thursday.

Eastern New England battens down the hatches

A nasty mix of heavy rain, strong winds and high seas is expected for Eastern New England, courtesy of Hurricane Lee. Maine was under its first hurricane watch in 15 years Thursday as Lee approached the region. Even if the storm doesn't officially make landfall in New England, its impacts will still be felt across the area: Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 90 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend up to 310 miles, the National Hurricane Center said. As of Thursday afternoon, Lee's winds were down to 85 mph, making it a Category 1 storm, and its center was about 710 miles south of Nantucket, Massachusetts.  Lee's path + the latest coverage.

Providence's hurricane barrier is ready. Here's how it works.

A satellite image provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows Hurricane Lee in the Atlantic Ocean on Thursday.

What everyone's talking about

The Short List is free, but several stories we link to are subscriber-only. Consider supporting our journalism and become a USA TODAY digital subscriber today.

Hunter Biden indicted on federal gun charges

Less than two months after a plea agreement fell apart over tax and gun charges, Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden , was indicted Thursday on federal gun charges. The indictment charges Hunter Biden with knowingly deceiving a firearms dealer by lying on a federal form about being addicted to any narcotics when he bought a revolver in 2018. Hunter Biden has acknowledged he was a drug addict at the time. The charges revive the prospect that he could be jailed and rekindle his role as a political lightning rod as his father runs for reelection. He faces a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison if convicted  but actual sentences typically are shorter, the Justice Department says.  Here's a closer look at the charges.

Autoworkers poised to strike as Thursday night deadline approaches

Time is of the essence as the United Auto Workers and the Big Three U.S. automakers negotiate a new labor contract, impacting around 146,000 workers. The union and the automakers  General Motors, Ford and Stellantis  have until 11:59 p.m. Thursday before the contract expires. UAW members are demanding better pay, shorter hours, the end of a tiered pay system for newer workers, and the return of benefits like pensions and cost-of-living adjustments.

Union members attend a rally and march at UAW Local 372 across the street from the Stellantis Trenton Engine Plant on Sept. 7.

A break from the news

Laura L. Davis is an Audience Editor at USA TODAY. Say hello:laura@usatoday.com.This is a compilation of stories from across the USA TODAY Network. Support quality journalism like this? Subscribe to USA TODAY here.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NASA's UFO report, Hunter Biden, Hurricane Lee, UAW strike: Thursdays news
NASA officials discussed the results of an independent teams findings released Thursday after delving into how to unlock the secrets of Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena, more commonly known as UFOs.

The 36-page report was published on NASAs website, and NASA Administrator Bill Nelson led a panel from Washington to discuss its findings, which call on the space agency to use existing resources but also seek out help from companies and the public in tracking UAP sightings.

The top takeaway from the study is that there is a lot more to learn, Nelson said. The NASA independent study team did not find any evidence that UAPs have an extraterrestrial origin, but we dont know what these UAP are.

The study team commissioned by NASA in 2022 consisted of 16 experts, including former NASA astronaut Scott Kelly, as well as university physics professors and officials with the Federal Aviation Administration among others.

The driving force behind NASAs involvement includes not only the search for alien life forms but the question of safety in the skies.

The U.S. government already has an overarching agency that gathers data from the Department of Defense, Federal Aviation Administration and other agencies about UAPs called the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office. The term UAP cropped up among U.S. military reports in the last two decades, referring to unidentified aerial phenomena, which has since been further relabeled as unidentified anomalous phenomena.

Unclassified military footage taken in the past two decades of Naval aviator encounters including one off the coast of Florida swelled more public and government interest, and as of last summer, more than 800 unexplained cases remained, according to AARO.

Nelson said while NASA needs time to react to the recommendations from the independent task force, it has already designated a NASA director of UAP research, who will act as liaison with AARO.

But NASA is not revealing the name of that person with members of the team citing the harassment they faced in the last year from conspiracy theorists.

We at NASA, take the sanctity of the scientific process, and the security and safety of our team extremely seriously, and, yes, thats in part why we are not splashing the name of our new director out there, said Dan Evans, assistant deputy associate administrator for research at NASAs Science Mission Directorate.

He said that in time the name of the official who has been in place for several months already will likely in time be revealed, but as this is the first day of NASA getting its hands on the report officially, Evans said for now, Science needs to undergo a real, rigorous, irrational process and you need the freedom of thought to be able to do that. Some of the threats and the harassment have been beyond the pale, quite frankly, to some of our panelists and yes, its important that science be free as part of that process.

Despite the secrecy behind that official, Nelson said the reason NASA was brought into the UAP discussion fold was because of its trustworthiness to the public, something the report said is essential to removing the stigma related to reporting UAP.

When pressed by reporters if NASA would reveal if it ever did find evidence of extraterrestrial life whether it would reveal it to the public, Nelson, who emphatically believes there is intelligent life in the universe, said, You bet your boots. We will say that, and Ive tried to set the table for you by telling you what I personally believe.

Theres so much concern that theres something locked up classified and the American government is not being open, he said. Well, we are the American government and we are open and were going to be open about this, adding NASAs not a place thats gonna hide its head in the sand. Were going to continue our search from a scientific point of view.

The report, though, cites several methods that can be used now to help explain existing unexplained phenomena but potential methods to better investigate future ones.

UAP are one of our planets greatest mysteries, and its really due to the limited number of high quality data that surrounds such incidents and often renders them unidentifiable, said Nicola Fox, associate administrator of NASAs Science Mission Directorate. While there are numerous eyewitness accounts and visuals associated with UAP, theyre not consistent, theyre not detailed, and theyre not curated observations that can be used to make definitive scientific conclusions about the nature and the origin of UAP.

The report called on NASA to use some of its existing satellites to hone in on areas where UAPs are spotted, but also implement its expertise with artificial intelligence and machine learning to muscle through vast amounts of data. But the report also said it needs more data, such as leaning on commercial companies with existing satellites and ground networks.

Astrophysicist David Spergel, the study panels chair and president of the Simons Foundation, held up his cell phone to illustrate one way the public could help in the data gathering as a form of citizen science.

Much of what we have in mind is taking advantage of the fact that theres several billion of these [cell phones] floating around, right? And they take wonderful high-quality images of high -quality metadata, record local magnetic field, sound, [and] gravitational fields. Theres a wealth of data that a cell phone takes, and you can imagine designing apps that make the images relatively tamper-free.

The report also detailed how some of the most common eyes on UAPs are pilots that dont have a centralized system for reporting what theyve seen. One of the reports suggestions is to use an existing system for pilots to anonymously report things such as close calls, hazards, violations and safety-related incidents to expand to UAP sightings.

The anonymity could assist in removing the stigma again, Spergel said.

We want to shift the conversation about from sensationalism to science. I think of this in terms of the signs we see around for security, which say, If you see something, say something. I think in this context, we would summarize it as, If you see something, then collect high-quality data on it.
Deputy Director of Naval Intelligence Scott Bray points to a video display of a UAP during a hearing of the House Intelligence, Counterterrorism, Counterintelligence, and Counterproliferation Subcommittee in Washington last year. (Alex Brandon / Associated Press)

NASAs new official instruction to the U.S. public regarding unidentified anomalous phenomena  the odd things in the sky that used to be called UFOs  boils down to a version of the popular security poster.

If you see something, say something, David Spergel, the head of the agencys UAP study team, said Thursday. And while you're at it, collect high-quality data so we can study it.

Spergel was speaking at an event highlighting his teams long-awaited final report on the data and methods NASA should use to analyze unusual aerial sightings.

The report outlines NASAs potential role in the U.S. governments study of UAPs, an effort led by the Defense Departments All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office, or AARO. That role will be led by a newly appointed  but unnamed  director of UAP research, the agency said Thursday.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson addressed the proverbial extraterrestrial elephant in the room.

The NASA independent study team did not find any evidence that UAP have an extraterrestrial origin," he said at the event, "but we dont know what these UAP are.

The space agency's goal, Nelson said, was to shift the conversation about UAP from sensationalism to science.

Read more: Is it a bird? A plane? NASA will study mysterious objects in the sky

Those hoping for confirmation of a broad government cover-up surrounding UFOs likely came away disappointed that the team did exactly what it said it would do.

With a budget of less than $100,000 and only nine months to work, the team delivered a fairly dry document listing technologies already in NASAs toolbox that could be deployed when investigating unusual observations that defy easy explanation.

By understanding the nature of UAP, we can ensure that our skies remain a safe space for all, said Dan Evans, assistant deputy associate administrator for research at NASAs Science Mission Directorate. Were trying to move from conjecture and conspiracy to science and sanity, and you do that with data.

Commercial and military pilots have reported dozens of odd airborne sightings in recent years that scientists have struggled to explain.

When such reports surface, the panel suggested deploying NASAs Earth-surveying satellites to evaluate the environmental conditions present at the time.

Understanding the atmospheric, oceanic and other environmental conditions can provide valuable context for an initially inexplicable sight, researchers said.

The panel also suggested some kind of standardized reporting portal that the public can use to log observations of unusual aerial activity. Without a standardized system, data ends up being irregular and incomplete  two adjectives at odds with scientific rigor.

Most events are going to turn out to be conventional things: balloons, airplanes and so on, said Spergel, an astrophysicist who serves as president of the Simons Foundation. This is where NASAs expertise in surveying planetary conditions is useful: If you want to find a needle in a haystack, you better know exactly what hay looks like.

Read more: Congress is getting serious about UFOs. Just don't call them that

In sidebars, the report profiled a few examples of credible UAP sightings, along with the explanations deeper scientific inquiry revealed.

One is the GoFast event, recorded in 2015 by naval aviators on the USS Theodore Roosevelt. Video recorded by a fighter jet's instruments appears to show an object skimming the surface of the ocean at uncanny speed.

Closer analysis found that the appearance of speed was an optical illusion caused by the planes own angle and velocity, the report stated. The light color of the object relative to the sea also indicates that it was colder than the ocean, meaning it had no heat-producing propulsion engine.

Scientists still cant definitively say what the object is, the report stated. But the evidence suggests that its most likely being carried along by the wind rather than maneuvering under its own power.

Read more: UFOs had their day in Congress. One strange sighting came at this California launch site

In a move that seemed at odds with its repeated claims of transparency, the agency declined to release the name of its new UAP chief, citing the scrutiny and harassment that study team members and other staffers affiliated with the subject have received.

The team drew prodigious and often ugly public comments during its nine months of work. Panel members have received online abuse both from people dismissive of any inquiry into UAPs and from those convinced there is more to the UFO story than NASA is willing to tell.

We take the security of the team very seriously, Evans said. Thats in part why were not splashing the name of our director out there. Science needs to be free.

The measured tones of NASAs representatives seemed unlikely to dampen interest in more sensational interpretations of UAP.

Read more: 'Theyre 100% not human': Las Vegas police investigate reports of extraterrestrial sightings

When asked by a reporter to comment on the two mummified forms that a UFO researcher presented to Mexicos Congress this week, claiming they were 1,000-year-old alien corpses, Spergel responded with a decided lack of enthusiasm.

This is something Ive only seen on Twitter, so, its, you know, Spergel said, adding that samples should be made available to scientists for analysis.

Another reporter quizzed Nelson about the July congressional testimony of a former Air Force intelligence officer who insists the U.S. is covering up a decades-old program to reverse-engineer alien spacecraft .

Whatever he said  wheres the evidence? Nelson responded.

Read more: UCLA is asking for the public's help in finding signs of extraterrestrial intelligence

Yet the NASA chief also offered what he described as his personal opinion on the existence of extraterrestrial life in the universe, one that is shared by some other astronomers : Though we have no evidence that any of it has contacted us here on Earth, theres a very real chance that somewhere in the universe is something else wed classify as life.

If you ask me, do I believe there is life in a universe that is so vast that its hard for me to comprehend ... my personal answer is yes, Nelson said.

NASA has a statutory authority to look for life in the universe, he said. Whatever we find, were going to tell you.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A yearlong study commissioned by NASA on unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP)  also known as UFOs  failed to find evidence that they are extraterrestrial in origin.

We dont know what these UAP are but were going to try to find out, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said at a press briefing Thursday.

The report, commissioned in June of last year and conducted by a panel of 16 independent experts, concluded that NASA is capable of using existing technology to better understand and investigate UAP and that it can reduce the stigma long associated with reporting these sightings.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson speaks during a media briefing Thursday on UAP at NASA headquarters in Washington, D.C.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson speaks during a media briefing Thursday on UAP at NASA headquarters in Washington, D.C.

Most UAP sightings result in very limited data, Nelson said. The report noted that these sightings are often ultimately identified as balloons, aircraft or known natural phenomena.

We want  private pilots, commercial pilots, military pilots, to feel that if they see something they need to report it, said Nicola Fox, associate NASA administrator.

To help spearhead its efforts, NASA officials announced the appointment of its first director of UAP research, though the agency declined to share his name.

Daniel Evans, a senior official in NASAs science mission directorate, cited harassment that some of the panel members experienced while conducting the study for keeping the directors name a secret.

Some of them actually rose to actual threats, he said. Science needs to be free. Science needs to undergo a real, rational process, and you need the freedom of thought to do that.

Nelson said officials are keeping an open mind about what UAP are, adding that he personally believes theres life beyond our solar system. He expressed doubt that these UAP are extraterrestrial, however, due to the distance they would have to travel to reach our planet.

It would have to be a very advanced civilization, said Nelson, who traveled to space while a Florida congressman in 1986. The distances, you know: light years, hundreds of light years, billions of light years. But whatever we find were going to tell you.

Related...
This website stores data such as cookies to enable essential site functionality, as well as marketing, personalization, and analytics. By remaining on this website, you indicate your consent.
NASA's independent team commissioned to study unidentified flying objects will release a report of its findings Thursday morning.

Following the report's release around 9:30 a.m. ET, the space agency will host a briefing led by NASA Administrator Bill Nelson to discuss the group's findings.

UFO briefing takeaways: How NASA hopes to shift UAP talks 'from sensationalism to science'

You can watch the briefing, which will take place at NASA's headquarters in Washington D.C., at the video at the top of the page or on USA TODAY's YouTube channel. It will also be streamed live on NASA Television, the NASA app, and the agencys website at www.nasa.gov/live.

NASA brought the panel of 16 experts together in 2022 to examine data related to UFOs, which the agency refers to as unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP). The agency cautions that the upcoming report is not a review or assessment of previous unidentifiable observations, but rather a roadmap of sorts on what possible data could be collected in the future.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson speaks during a press conference in August.

No longer conspiracy theories? How UFOs became mainstream in America

UFOs have become more of a mainstream interest

The report comes at a time when UFOs have once again been capturing the public's attention as bipartisan pressued mounts among lawmakers pressuring the federal government and the military to release more information about what they know.

A July U.S. congressional hearing was filled with claims of mysterious objects sighted by Navy pilots and a government program to retrieve and study downed spacecraft. Earlier this month, the Pentagon's office to investigate UAP unveiled a website where the public can access declassified information about reported sightings.

And just this week, a hearing in front of Mexican lawmakers included one UFO researcher presenting what he alleged where the mummified bodies of ancient aliens, a claim that has been disputed by scientists.

But while strange objects in the sky can be captivating, experts at NASA, as well as other astrophysicists, have long cautioned that otherworldly explanations aren't likely even in the absence of a natural explanation. At a UFO hearing that NASA hosted in May, scientists were clear that they did not believe there was evidence to conclusively confirm that UAP are extraterrestrial in origin.

'A promising step:' NASA says planet 8.6 times bigger than Earth could support life

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at elagatta@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NASA UFO press conference livestream: Watch UAP report announcement
NASA doesnt know what UFOs arebut it knows most of them aren't aliens.

As for the rest of the unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) who knows? Theres missing data, David Spergel , the chair of a new NASA study into UAPs, told reporters Thursday.

Gathering that data is the space agencys first task as it moves to make UAP research a top priority alongside space exploration, aeronautics, and Earth science, Spergel and other top NASA officials said when they rolled out the UAP report Thursday morning.

The trick is gathering data thats scientifically useful. That means fewer frantic emails from someone claiming their late uncle once saw something weirdan example Spergel cited from his own inboxand more formal reports from astronomers and pilots, and even everyday people using apps that embed high-quality metadata in photos and videos of strange objects flitting around the sky.

Congress UFO Hearing Was Really a Desperate Call for Action. Who Will Answer It?

We want to shift the conversation about UAPs from sensationalism to science, NASA administrator Bill Nelson said at the press conference.

That shift begins with appreciating the size of the universe. Nelson said he asked NASA scientists to estimate how many planets there are that are warm, wet, and rockylike Earthand that, also like Earth, could evolve life. A trillion, is the response he said he got.

Do I believe in a universe thats so vast that there could be a replication of life on Earth? Nelson asked rhetorically. Of course I do.

However, that doesnt mean aliens have visited Earth. Or that their method of visiting Earth is to tease us with fleeting glimpses of their spaceships as they buzz U.S. Navy pilots or fly in formation over major cities in the dead of night.

The 17 members of the study team that produced Thursdays reporta mix of astronomers, aviation experts and tech expertsdismissed many of the most famous recent UAP sightings as sensor glitches, weather phenomena, airplanes, satellites or balloons.

Why Are We Suddenly Shooting a Bunch of UFOs Out of the Sky?

One video of a strange-looking flying object, captured by a U.S. Air Force drone over South Asia in January, turned out to be an airliner that only looked strange because of the pixelation resulting from the video compression in the drones camera.

NASAs All-Domain Anomaly Resolution Office, which scrutinizes UAP sightings, was able to explain the January UAP sighting because military drones capture data-rich, repeatable imagery. Operators know exactly where the drones are, and often steer their drones along the same routes, recording similar videos with identical cameras.

Needle In a Haystack

That doesnt mean that NASA is completely closing the doors on ET visitors, though. Its that absence of precise, repeatable data that keeps many UAP in the unidentified column. Thats a solvable problem, howeverand the space agency wants to be a big part of the solution. NASAs expertise should be comprehensively leveraged as part of a robust and systematic data acquisition strategy, the report urged.

It starts with better characterizing Earth and Earth technology, Spergel explained. If youre looking for a needle in a haystack, either you know exactly what the needle looks like  or you know what hay looks like, he said. Since we dont know how aliens might design a spacecraft (the needle) we can start by understanding everything that we can say for sure isnt an alien spacecraft (the hay).

That way, when we see something we cant explain, we can at least rule out everything we can explainand get closer to an accurate description of possible alien craft. For NASA, that means combining weather and climate data from its own Earth-observation satellites to build a detailed model of past, present, and future atmospheric conditions.

Thus, NASA can help determine whether specific environmental factors are associated with reported UAP properties or occurrences, according to the report. For example, we could start ruling out every UAP sighting thats really just a high-altitude cloud formation or a flicker of the Northern Lights.

No, You Gullible Fools. The UFOs Arent Aliens.

To be clear, thats probably a lot of them. UFOlogy is a study of atmospheric phenomena, John Gertz, a former chairman of the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) Institute in California, which listens for radio signals from alien civilizations, told The Daily Beast.

Next, for UAP sightings in U.S. airspace, NASA could coordinate data-collection from hundreds of powerful weather and air-traffic-control satellites and radars belonging to the Federal Aviation Administration, the National Weather Service, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Air Force.

These agencies sensors will be essential for distinguishing interesting objects from airborne clutter, the report said.

At the same time, the reports authors urged NASA to fold non-government initiatives into its wider effort to understand the sky and all the strange things we see in it. The agencys new UAP report applauds the efforts undertaken in the private sector and U.S. academic community to employ one or more inexpensive ground-based sensors that are capable of surveying large areas of the sky.

NASA Should Just Say It: Were Looking for Goddamn Aliens

Thats a clear reference to UAP-recording smartphone apps, and also to Harvard physicist Avi Loebs Galileo Project, which is slowly installing a potentially global network of rooftop sensorscameras, radars and microphonesto continuously record enough of the sky to characterize many of the lights, soundsm and weird objects that fill it. Its an effort to both describe the hay and record possible glimpses of the needle.

The Galileo Project is just a few years old and only has one full sensor suite in place, in Massachusetts. But its already filling racks of servers with useful imagery. We already have more data than in all UAP reports of the past, Loeb told The Daily Beast.

Loeb said he appreciated the NASA reports oblique reference to his sensor project. But they could have mentioned us by name, he quipped.

People Power

People are sensors, tooespecially pilots. The FAA and Defense Department oversee thousands of them. NASA should help the Pentagon and the FAA get on the same page: reassure military and civilian pilots that theres no shame in admitting to seeing weird flying objects, and give them a standardized way of reporting sightings that includes all the most important data.

Then theres the general public, the real wild card in the UAP game. Intense public interest in UAPs is whats driving the renewed government focus on the phenomenon. That same intensity is a huge problem for actual scientists trying to apply actual science to the problem of unidentified flying objects.

The authors of the NASA study were harassed online, Spergel said. The harassment got so bad that, when NASA recently appointed a new director of UAP research, the agency decided not to release his name. Some of the threats and harassment have been beyond the pale, Daniel Evans, NASAs assistant deputy associate administrator for research, told reporters Thursday.

Probably only a minority of UAP-enthusiasts are dangerous online trolls. The enthusiastic majority could be an asset as NASA widens its UAP research. There are smartphone appsincluding one from New York City-based Enigma Labsthat add precise metadata to photos and videos, and correlate separate imagery of the same object specifically for the purpose of adding scientific rigor to UAP sightings by everyday people.

Why Theres a Good Chance Youll See a UFO This Christmas

The panel also sees several advantages to augmenting potential data collection efforts using modern crowdsourcing techniques, including open-source smartphone-based apps that simultaneously gather imaging data and other smartphone sensor data from multiple citizen observers, the report explained, adding that NASA should even consider acquiring one of these apps.

If NASAs latest UAP report seems like its full of coulds and shoulds, well, thats because it is. The agency is just beginning to make UAP a top priorityasking the same question that was once voiced mostly by conspiracy theorists and T.V. writers: Are aliens among us?

But NASA does scienceand science doesnt presuppose the answer to a question that profound. The answer will come after a lot of study of a lot of data. Data that NASA is just beginning to gather.

For anyone hoping that NASA would reveal little green men retrieved from a crash site, this report will be disappointing, Douglas Vakoch, the president of Messaging to Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence International in San Francisco, told The Daily Beast. But for anyone serious about getting to the bottom of these unexplained anomalous phenomena, this briefing gives concrete guidelines for taking action to solve one of the greatest mysteries of the past century.

The public should be patient, NASA administrator Nelson said. We dont know what these UAP are, but were going to find out.

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.
This post has been updated.

A new NASA-commissioned independent study report recommends leveraging NASAs expertise and public trust alongside artificial intelligence to investigate unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) on Earth. As such, today NASA Director Bill Nelson announced the appointment of a NASA Director of UAP Research to develop and oversee implementation of investigation efforts.

The director of UAP Research is a pivotal addition to NASAs team and will provide leadership, guidance and operational coordination for the agency and the federal government to use as a pipeline to help identify the seemingly unidentifiable," Nicola Fox, associate administrator of the Science Mission Directorate at NASA, said in a release .

Although NASA officials repeated multiple times that the study found no evidence of extraterrestrial origin , they conceded they still "do not know" the explanation behind at least some of the documented UAP sightings. Nelson stressed the agency's aim to begin minimizing public stigma surrounding UAP events, and begin shifting the subject "from sensationalism to science." In keeping with this strategy, the panel report relied solely on unclassified and open source UAP data to ensure all findings could be shared openly and freely with the public.

[Related: Is the truth out there? Decoding the Pentagons latest UFO report .]

"We don't know what these UAP are, but we're going to find out," Nelson said at one point. "You bet your boots."

According to today's public announcement , the study team additionally recommends NASA utilize its "open-source resources, extensive technological expertise, data analysis techniques, federal and commercial partnerships, and Earth-observing assets to curate a better and robust dataset for understanding future UAP."

Composed of 16 community experts across various disciplines, the UAP study team was first announced in June of last year, and began work on their study in October. In May 2023, representatives from the study team expressed frustration with the fragmentary nature of available UAP data.

"The current data collection efforts regarding UAPs are unsystematic and fragmented across various agencies, often using instruments uncalibrated for scientific data collection, study chair David Spergel, an astrophysicist and president of the nonprofit science organization the Simons Foundation , said at the time . Existing data and eyewitness reports alone are insufficient to provide conclusive evidence about the nature and origin of every UAP event.

Today's report notes that although AI and machine learning tools have become "essential tools" in identifying rare occurrences and outliers within vast datasets, "UAP analysis is more limited by the quality of data than by the availability of techniques." After reviewing neural network usages in astronomy , particle physics, and other sciences, the panel determined that the same techniques could be adapted to UAP researchbut only if datasets' quality is both improved and codified. Encouraging the development of rigorous data collection standards and methodologies will be crucial to ensuring reliable, evidence-based UAP analysis.

[Related: You didnt see a UFO. It was probably one of these things .]

Although no evidence suggests extraterrestrial intelligence is behind documented UAP sightings, Do I believe there is life in the universe? Nelson asked during NASAs press conference. My personal opinion is, yes.
An animation showing two black and white images side-by-side. The right image has a yellow circle around the dot that is moving across the screen in both images.

NASA's Lucy spacecraft just sent home an impressive glimpse of the smallest asteroid target on its 12-year agenda to study intriguing space rocks.

Asteroid Dinkinesh, a mere 0.5 mile-wide (1 kilometer-wide) rock residing in the inner part of the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter , was captured by one of Lucy's high resolution cameras from a whopping 14 million miles (23 million km) away.

The images, snapped on Sept. 2 and Sept. 5, feature Dinkinesh as a speck of light nearly lost amid countless similar spots if not for NASA circling it in the photos to aid the eye.

"This is really a tiny little asteroid," Hal Levison, the principal investigator for the Lucy mission, had said in a statement earlier this year. "Some of the team affectionately refer to it as 'Dinky.' But, for a small asteroid, we expect it to be a big help for the Lucy mission."

Related: Newly discovered asteroid zooms within 2,500 miles of Earth

Launched in October 2021, the Lucy spacecraft is scheduled to visit the Trojan asteroids, a cloud of space rocks located between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. These shards are considered remnants of our ancient solar system from over four billion years ago. Dinkinesh, however, was added to Lucy's agenda as a risk-mitigation exercise to test the efficiency of the spacecraft's tracking system  specifically whether it could hold the rock in its field of view while gliding closer at speeds of 10,000 miles per hour (4.5 kilometers per second).

"Dinkinesh will remain an unresolved point of light during the long approach and won't start to show surface detail until the day of the encounter," NASA representatives said in a statement .

Over the next couple of months, an optical navigation program onboard Lucy will track Dinkinesh's position with respect to a star-studded sky to guide the spacecraft for an accurate flyby. Finally, on Nov. 1, Lucy will be just 265 miles (425 km) from the space rock, scientists say.

Related Stories:

 Protecting Earth from asteroids is complicated and requires global cooperation

 How big is the asteroid threat, really?

 Asteroid impacts shifted the moon's poles over billions of years

The flyby on Nov. 1 will also be useful in assessing the accuracy with which Lucy can point at a target, as one of the spacecraft's two solar arrays did not properly unfurl after its 2021 launch. Late last year, the mission team estimated the array to be 98% deployed and suspended further efforts, noting it "carries an acceptable level of risk."

"We're not exactly sure, given that the solar array is not latched, of the pointing stability characteristics of the spacecraft, so this will also help us determine that," Levinson said earlier this year at a meeting about announcing Dinkinesh, according to SpaceNews .

The name Dinkinesh translates to " you are marvelous " in Amharic  an official language in Ethiopia, where the 3.2 million-year-old fossils of an early female ancestor nicknamed "Lucy" were discovered in 1974. Similar to those fossils shedding light on human evolution, scientists think the Lucy spacecraft will illuminate early solar system history.
Christine Tran, a junior at newly opened James Lawson High School, was sworn in Tuesday as the newest student member of the Metro Nashville Public Schools board.

Tran, who will serve a two-year term on the board, took her oath during the regular MNPS Board of Education meeting Tuesday night. She succeeds Abenezer Haile, who graduated this spring and headed to New York University. She joins current student board member and Hillsboro High School senior Alayna Mitchell. Tran and Mitchell represent the more than 80,000 students across the entire district and will be part of the board's regular meetings typically held every other Tuesday.

Metro Nashville Public Schools board member Abigail Tylor (left) and chair Rachael Anne Elrod swear in James Lawson High School junior Christine Tran as a student member of the MNPS Board of Education.

"Christine is a dedicated and energetic leader who has proven to be a problem-solver within her school community," Mitchell said in a news release from MNPS. "I believe that Christine will continue the meaningful work that Abenezer has done while also bringing in a fresh, new perspective."

While student members can't vote, they are able to weigh in during board debates and discussions. After a pause, the board began appointing student members again during the 2021-22 school year.

"I want to make an impact on my community and speak up for those who can't speak up for themselves, and so I thought this position would be the perfect way to do so," Tran said in the release. "I'm excited to have been selected and look forward to representing my peers."

Christine Tran, a junior at James Lawson High School in Nashville, was sworn in as a student member of the MNPS Board of Education on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023.

Tran started the Asian Youth Club while she was a student at Hillwood High School, which recently closed as construction on James Lawson High was completed and students moved campuses. Tran will continue to lead the club at the new school. She has also worked as a tutor and has been part of the Model United Nations and Youth in Government. Additionally, she has played with the Hillwood band and been a member of its debate team.

Tran was selected after the board reviewed applications from rising juniors across the district earlier this year. Haile and other leaders praised Tran as a leader and expressed excitement over what she brings to the board.

"Im excited to welcome Christine to the Board and look forward to watching her grow into the position and match the passion and insight of her predecessors in the months and years ahead," MNPS Director Adrienne Battle said in the release. "I know she and Alayna will capture and represent the voices of our wonderfully talented, skilled and diverse student body."

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville school board appoints Christine Tran as new student member
NATO said again it sees no signs of an intentional attack by Russia against Romania after Bucharest found drone fragments on its territory for the third time, Romanian Ambassador to NATO Dan Neculaescu said on Sept. 13, citing the alliance's spokesperson.

Romania's envoy to NATO updated the allies on Russian strikes against Ukrainian targets near the Romanian border during a meeting of the North Atlantic Council on Sept. 13.

Neculaescu wrote on the social platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that he informed NATO representatives that "fragments of drones similar to those used by Russia have been identified on Romanian territory."

"The Romanian authorities remain on alert and are conducting a full investigation," the NATO spokesperson reportedly said.

"NATO has no information indicating any intentional attack by Russia against Allied territory."

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support us

On Sept. 13, the Romanian military found for the third time possible fragments of a Russian drone on its territory, presumably destroyed in a strike against Ukraine.

The debris was discovered on the Danube Delta near the villages of Nufarul and Victoria in Tulcea County roughly 15-20 kilometers southeast of the Ukrainian border.

In response, Bucharest summoned the Russian ambassador as a "protest to a new violation of Romania's airspace" and condemned attacks against its neighbor Ukraine.

The Romanian authorities previously confirmed the discovery of suspected Russian drone fragments on their soil on Sept. 6. NATO commented at the time that it saw no indication of a deliberate attack against the member of the Alliance.

More fragments were found on Sept. 9 near the village of Plauru, lying at the Danube River only hundreds of meters from Ukraine's border.

Romania has begun to introduce strengthened security measures in the areas at risk of falling debris, constructing air-raid shelters in the settlements near the Danube and issuing warnings through the Ro-Alert emergency system.

Read also: Romania summons Russian ambassador following discovery of more drone debris

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
This story has been updated.

A lockdown aboard Naval Station Everett, Washington, was lifted early Thursday evening after authorities determined that a suspicious device found in a vehicle at the gate earlier that afternoon was not a threat.

Security personnel were alerted to the package at about 1:15 p.m. local time, and one base building was evacuated, according to a brief command statement.

Officials announced that all was clear at 5 p.m.

Those on base were directed to stay inside and shelter in place.

West Marine Drive outside the base was closed in both directions as officials assessed the device, according to the Everett Police Department.

The Navy provided no further details on the incident.
The Navys MQ-4C Triton aerial drones deployed to Guam last month for their second deployment in the Pacific theater, according to the sea service.

The unmanned intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting aircraft wrapped up their first deployment out of Guam in October and have since received an upgraded sensor suite that increased the capability of the drones, which are operated by Unmanned Patrol Squadron 19, Naval Air Forces said in a release this week.

Officials declined to say how many Tritons were deployed to Guam, citing operational security.

The squadron will operate the Tritons out of Guams Andersen Air Force Base as part of the platforms initial operating capability. Their prior deployment involved trips to Japan to refine the concept of operations for expeditionary basing.

The Triton and VUP-19 have been rotating through Guam and U.S. 7th Fleet since 2020 as tactics, techniques and procedures have been honed and perfected.

US Navy Triton UAV returns from Guam, ahead of transition to more capable variant

Officials have previously said they hope drones like the Triton can eventually handle the bulk of the Navys surveillance and reconnaissance workload, freeing up the manned P-8 Poseidon aircraft for more complex anti-submarine warfare missions.

Tritons can fly for more than 24 hours at a time at altitudes higher than 10 miles, with an operational range of more than 8,000 nautical miles, according to their manufacturer, Northrup Grumman.

Correction: an earlier version of this story misstated when the first Triton deployment to Guam wrapped up. That deployment ended in October 2022.
A North Carolina man convicted of murder was sentenced to life in prison, according to the 15th Circuit Solicitors Office.

A jury convicted Marquis Shawn Brown, 32, of Fayetteville, on the charges Wednesday, a press release said.

Judge William H. Seals sentenced Brown to life, the maximum sentence allowed, the release said.

Brown was convicted of shooting and killing Mark Verhasselt, also of Fayetteville. Verhasselt was found shot to death in a parking lot on Bovardia Place, in the Myrtle Beach area, on July 10, 2018.

Brown out on bond for years despite additional arrests

Brown, while awaiting trial, had been out on bond since September 2020 following his June 2019 arrest. He returned to jail in February after violating the condition of his $150,000 surety bond with electronic monitoring.

However, Brown had been arrested twice before his bond was eventually revoked this year. He was arrested in September 2021 in Fayetteville for possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute marijuana and again in December of that year for trafficking in opium/heroin and other charges.

Victims body not found until hours after shots reported

The press release said that Horry County Police identified Brown within hours of the murder and had him in custody within days.

However, more than five hours elapsed between reports of shots fired and police arriving on the scene of the shooting death at the Myrtle Beach-area apartment complex.

Verhasselt, 42, was killed at a Magnolia North apartments parking lot. Verhasselt lived in the Myrtle Beach area on and off for several years, Deputy Coroner Michelle McSpadden previously said.

Police found him in the Wild Iris Drive complex, which is on the outskirts of Myrtle Beach.

Verhasselt was a person of interest in a Fayetteville Police Department disappearance case, Spectrum News reported in March.

Another man, Matthew Isaiah Rivera, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, was sentenced to eight years in prison in January 2022 for his role in connection to the murder. The North Carolina man pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact to a murder.
They are the tall, grayish-white, often limbless sentinels that rise from the marshes as the mainland ends and North Carolina's extensive coastal rivers, estuaries and sounds begin.

They are ghost forests, and clusters, sometimes hundreds of these dead and dying trees can be found lining the Cape Fear River and many of the Wilmington area's tidal creeks and brackish channels. From Smith Creek near the Wilmington International Airport to Town Creek in Brunswick County and countless other local waterways, the carcasses of dying trees stick up from the marsh. Along shorelines, a graveyard of stumps is often visible.

These forests of tree skeletons can be found all along the coasts of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and the Chesapeake Bay tracking north, and their ranks are growing as climate change combines with man's engineering of the coast to allow salt water to seep farther and farther inland.

Dead and dying trees, killed by rising salinity levels, line Smith Creek north of downtown Wilmington. STAN SUSSINA/STARNEWS

What are ghost forests?

They represent areas where the marsh and vegetation hasn't been able to keep up with an increased exposure to salinity. The salty water slowly poisons the trees, leaving them as graying pillars of environmental change before they eventually collapse.

While some trees like cypress and some cedars can survive in brackish waters, too much salt can cause widespread tree death.

The increase in salt water impacts other vegetation, with grasses and other plants replaced with more salt-tolerant species before they are often also wiped out by the rising salinity.

Why are ghost forests increasing?

While some habitat transformation would be expected under natural conditions, man's decades of pumping millions of tons of heat-trapping greenhouse gases into the atmosphere has changed the world's weather patterns.

The warming planet has increased the melting of the ice caps, raising sea levels and allowing salt water to reach farther inland and in greater quantities. Rising ocean temperatures also are contributing to the problem, since the volume of the ocean is expanding as the sea water warms.

In short, the change in ecosystems is now happening much faster than before.

WOODEN WARRIORS Ancient NC trees have survived thousands of years. Will they weather climate change?

Climate change means stronger and bigger tropical weather systems, where amplified storm surge pushes water father onto land and up waterways. Increasing and more persistent periods of drought, another sign of climate change, also means there's sometimes less freshwater to counter the impacts of the salt water pulses. North Carolina has experienced several periods of extended drought in recent years.

A 2021 research paper published by scientists from Duke University used historical pictures from Google Earth to determine that nearly one-third of the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, famous for being the only wild home of the highly endangered red wolf, had transformed from forest habitat to shrub land or marsh over the past 35 years. Another roughly 11% of the protected area in northeastern North Carolina had become a ghost forest.

Researchers at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science measuring coastal forest retreat rates using historical maps and core samples have seen it jump from less than 0.5 meters (1.6 feet) per year in parts of North Carolina prior to 1875 to more than 4 meters (13 feet) in places today. They also noted that land submergence in a coastal area that runs from North Carolina to Massachusetts is contributing to the growth of ghost forests, with sea-level rates rising three times faster than global rates.

Dead trees spread out in ghost forests across the landscape at the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge on the Albemarle-Pamlico Peninsula in North Carolina. Higher tides, salt water intrusion and heavier rains all stress the pocosin bogs and wetland forests on the refuge.

Are ghost forests as environmentally valuable as other coastal forests?

Ghost forests don't provide the range of habitat for freshwater and saltwater flora and fauna that a healthy coastal forest and brackish environment does. Researchers are still trying to determine the long-term impacts from these changes to coastal systems on migrating birds, insects, invertebrates, and other critters and plants that call them home.

Ghost forests also can't provide the protection that a healthy forest does by helping absorb the wind and water energy from hurricanes and other strong weather events. That's because as the trees die and other organic material in the wetlands succumbs to the increased salinity in the water, the marshes start falling apart and washing away.

The wetlands also are great carbon sinks, but that capability is lost as they are washed away. A 2021 study by N.C. State researchers found that ghost trees, colloquially called snags, increased greenhouse gas emissions of the overall decomposing wetland ecosystem by about 25%.

MORE North Carolina's wetlands emit lots of climate-warming methane gas. Is that bad?

The result of the transitioning wetlands are wide savannahs of open saltwater marsh  and eventually open water  dotted with dead and dying trees. And while sometimes freshwater habitats can retreat inland and attempt to rebuild, topography and the sheer speed at which sea-level rise is impacting saltwater intrusion makes this a tough proposition.

In the Wilmington area, a sign of this transformation is clearly visible  especially from the Interstate 140 bridge  along the Northeast Cape Fear River north of Wilmington, where the river delta is spreading out as salt water overcomes the former freshwater marsh areas.

What about human actions beyond climate change?

As humans have engineered the coast to meet our needs, the changes are allowing the higher levels of salt water to reach farther inland.

In many parts of coastal North Carolina, large systems of ditches were built to drain and irrigate fields. But that same water infrastructure is now allowing salt water to push well inland from the coast, adding to stress on freshwater habitats miles away from the shoreline and degrading crop productivity.

In Southeastern North Carolina, the deepening of the Cape Fear River shipping channel over the decades has changed much of the habitat along the river and its tributaries as officials work to keep the Port of Wilmington competitive in a globally connected world where size  especially when it comes to ships  does matter.

PUSHING DEEPER As other Southeast ports get deeper, what's the status of Wilmington's expansion project?

When Europeans first eyed the Cape Fear River, it was a shallow estuary that could be crossed on foot. Today, blue crabs and flounder can be caught as far inland as Lock and Dam No. 1 in Bladen County  more than 40 miles inland.

Several environmental groups, including the N.C. Coastal Federation and Cape Fear River Watch, have raised concerns that the latest proposal to deepen the shipping channel, this time from 42 feet to 47 feet, will hasten the transformation of freshwater wetlands in the river estuary, costing habitat and floodwater protection in areas that are already seeing an increased risk of flooding due to sea-level rise and climate change.

So what happens now?

To slow down the transition of the coastal forest ecosystem, officials are trying a variety of steps to mitigate the rising salt waters.

They include installing living shorelines and oyster reefs along shorelines to absorb tidal energy and limit erosion to re-engineering ditches and dikes to prevent salt water from pushing inland. Where possible, some efforts also are being made to plant freshwater marsh vegetation inland to allow it to get established and provide important habitat before the salt water arrives.

But building resiliency into a system that's low-lying and facing a threat that increases every year as sea-level rise gains momentum isn't easy. The United Nation's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has said global sea levels could rise more than 3 feet by the end of the century if additional steps aren't taken to curb the warming of the planet. Estimates by NOAA's National Climate Assessment are even more sobering, stating that the seas could rise by double that amount if the rapid loss of Antarctic ice occurs.

Reporter Gareth McGrath can be reached at GMcGrath@Gannett.com or @GarethMcGrathSN on Twitter. This story was produced with financial support from 1Earth Fund and the Prentice Foundation. The USA TODAY Network maintains full editorial control of the work.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Ghost forests in NC expanding with sea level rise, climate change
Clockwise from top left: The Antioch Baptist Church in Venice, Chicago's Finest Marina in Chicago, the Second Reading Book Shop in Alton and The Gillett House in Jacksonville are all Underground Railroad sites in Illinois. Photographs were made using an iPhone tintype filter. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

For years, Rockford resident Atwood Forten Jacobs carried around his family Bible wrapped in wax paper and bubble wrap to make sure silverfish didnt get to it. He said he knew its importance, and he didnt want it to get damaged.

But it wasnt until his then-school-age daughter was on the hunt for a book report subject that Jacobs suggested writing about their ancestor James Forten, a free man in Philadelphia who was a business owner, a philanthropist and an abolitionist.

At the library, he and his daughter stumbled across Julie Winchs book, A Gentleman of Color: The Life of James Forten. His daughter got an A on the book report, and Jacobs got an in-depth look at his great-great-great-great-grandfathers significance in American history.

Jacobs reached out to Winch to tell her about his Bible, which lists the births, deaths and marriages of family members, some of whom eventually migrated west. Jacobs landed in Illinois. In sharing that material, his family tree become more real.

I think the earliest entry is 1812, Jacobs said. It was given to James Fortens daughter-in-law in 1839, Jane Vogelsang Forten, the day of her wedding.

Jacobs donated the Bible to the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia, where its on display as part of the Black Founders of America exhibit through Nov. 26.

James Forten was an amazing man, very focused, Jacobs said. Forten ran a sailmaking company and was one of the few Black business owners in Philadelphia. Funds from his company went toward abolitionist endeavors, such as running publications and advancing Philadelphias free Black community.

Jacobs donated the Bible for its continued preservation, so others can see the history  like the story of Ben Brown, a freedom seeker from Mississippi who spent months in the Wood River Valley of Illinois and found a life in Brighton, Illinois.

Its that kind of history that folks like former teachers Glennette Tilley Turner, Charlotte E. Johnson and Larry McClellan, and Springfield resident James Ransom have dedicated thousands of hours to researching and promoting.

Lifelong history holders

Turner, 90, has written a dozen childrens books about history and the Underground Railroad. The Wheaton residents work as a historian, teacher, lecturer, consultant and community activist was recognized this year by the Illinois State Historical Society.

Turners book The Underground Railroad in Illinois is considered a primer on the areas history, and she has a book about Harriet Tubman coming out in 2025 that includes an interview with Tubmans great-niece. Turner is always on the lookout for a connection, a story on the Underground Railroad. Digging for details on the Underground Railroad gives her a sense of place to know history happened all around.

Underground Railroad Educator and author Glennette Tilley Turner stands in front of Blanchard Hall, an Underground Railroad site, on the Wheaton College campus in 2009. (Chuck Berman/Chicago Tribune)

Its the untold stories that Im interested in, she said. To find that Illinois was involved and then to find locations  there are just so many that tell such incredible things.

Turner wants to know more about those people who watched the streets at night to make sure freedom seekers stayed safe when the Fugitive Slave Act was law. How would they alert the freedom seekers if something seemed odd or slave catchers were in the area?

I think of Chicago as being unique, Turner said. Boston and Philadelphia and Cincinnati boasted as being safe havens, but I found in Chicago that Black and white abolitionists and people of different denominations and lines of work worked together in a harmony that I didnt see in other cities.

Underground Railroad Chicago's Finest Marina, seen on Aug. 2, 2023, is next to a farm that belonged to Dutch immigrants and abolitionists Jan and Aagje Ton, and is a newly recognized stop on the Underground Railroad. The Ton family assisted freedom seekers as they traveled to safety in Canada. Photographed using an iPhone tintype filter. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

Johnson, a researcher, genealogist, teacher and historian, said she came to the field of research naturally. As the youngest of her cousins, she said listening to her grandparents stories and her fathers memories was inevitable, but her inquisitive nature about the events that shaped lives solidified her passion for the work. The Illinois State Historical Society honored her with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021 for her decades of work.

Johnson, 90, married into a family whose farmland had been owned since the mid-1800s. Raised in Springfield, a former Chicago teacher and current Alton resident, Johnson shares what she learns, including the details of the history surrounding Rocky Fork, abolitionists and freedom seekers.

When the mantle of preserving her familys history was passed to her by her late aunt Rose Marie Schultz Ashford, Johnson ran with it. Her research turned up a family publication that ran from 1820 to 1995. The photo on the cover of 1993s publication Illinois Generations: A Travelers Guide to African-American Heritage showcases Johnsons father-in-law at the 50th wedding anniversary celebration of James and Matilda Ballinger in 1810.

Charlotte E. Johnson Charlotte Johnson, an Underground Railroad historian, stands near Rocky Fork Creek in Godfrey, a major transit point for people seeking their freedom, on June 21, 2023. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

Johnsons daughter Renee helps with her history work these days. Sitting at a table with the pair, one learns so much, including more about the only ordained Black Baptist minister in Illinois at the time, John Livingston, who would organize several Black Baptist churches throughout Illinois, including in Chicago, under the teachings of Friends to Humanity, that would help with Underground Railroad activities.

The Underground Railroad couldnt happen without white folks who believed, said Renee Johnson. In this part of the world, they didnt get a lot of notoriety. Everybody probably knew, but they didnt seek notoriety either, and neither have their descendants. But you have a man like James Lemen who, so much hinged on his being here. ... Elijah P. Lovejoy wrote a newspaper and got his press thrown in the river.

Lemen established anti-slavery churches in the area and trained Livingston.

Underground Railroad Antioch Baptist Church in Venice, seen on June 21, 2023, is an Underground Railroad site. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

For Crete resident McClellan, the history of the Underground Railroad has been a research mainstay for over 20 years. Involved in civil rights activities in 1960s Southern California, he would go on to attend the University of Ghana in West Africa. He said both inspired him to dig deeper into issues of racial justice. His connections with Governors State University led him to working with the Black community south of Chicago, which subsequently led him to references to the Underground Railroad.

McClellan, 78, has written three books on the Underground Railroad, including the new release Onward to Chicago: Freedom Seekers and the Underground Railroad in Northeastern Illinois.

McClellan and the Little Calumet River Underground Railroad Project helped get the Jan and Aagje Ton Farm designated as a site on the National Park Services Network to Freedom in 2022. He was the principal researcher for two other Network to Freedom sites in Crete and Lockport. His efforts were recognized in 2022 by the Illinois State Historical Society.

Larry McClellan Tour attendees listen and take notes as Larry McClellan explains the significance of a historical marker at the former site of the Jan and Aagje Ton Farm during a walking and bus tour of Illinois Underground Railroad sites around the Beaubien Woods area Oct. 29, 2022, in Chicago. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)

McClellan hopes his new book reframes the narrative of the Underground Railroad from one that centers on white Americans efforts to one that centers on the Black lens.

The power in the Underground Railroad stories is the power of the freedom seekers, McClellan said. Our history is right here. Its present and for all of us, that is a racially diverse history.

When discussing the Illinois Underground Railroad, the name James Terrry Ransom is mentioned more than once. Johnson remembers him as her Girl Scouts leaders son, but he too got the research bug when it came to Underground Railroad history. He chalks up his interest to his father, who taught him about civil and human rights, and his grandmother, who taught him about Abraham Lincoln.

Ransom used to traverse the state as an Illinois Department of Transportation employee, and he and friends would take pictures of places that were connected to the history. Ransom would then spend his evenings in libraries, gleaning details on the area. He spent over 25 years doing so. Ransoms maps of Illinois Underground Railroad sites are still found in piles of documentation that Turner and Johnson have.

Underground Railroad James "Terry" Ransom, who researched the Underground Railroad for years, stands next to family photos at home in Springfield on July 18, 2023. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

A lot of times librarians knew other people that were knowledgeable in the history and theyd make phone calls and go by and talk to them  that worked out pretty well, Ransom said.

Ransom remembers giving many talks and presentations through the years on the Underground Railroad and he said some people would get up and leave after hearing Illinois was a free state only in name, not in practice. With the Black laws, freed Black folks were very restricted to prevent them from moving to the state.

Ransom said some audience members dont like to hear or accept anything bad about Abraham Lincoln.

Underground Railroad A statue of President Abraham Lincoln is on display in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield on July 18, 2023. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

Illinois is still one of the most prejudiced states you will find, Ransom said. You go to Mississippi and you can find just as many towns in Illinois that are just as Black-hating. Have you ever read some of the comments that (Lincoln) made when he was down in Charleston at the Lincoln-Douglas debate? They fit right today. Im not going to make jurors, voters or anything else out of Black people. And if we have to live together, there must be a superior and inferior, and I approve whites to be the superior, something to that effect.

Underground Railroad task force

To connect the dots around Illinois pertaining to the Underground Railroad, legislators recently passed a bill that will create a temporary task force Jan. 1. The group will develop a statewide plan to connect existing local projects and new projects to create a cohesive statewide history of the Underground Railroad in Illinois, and create new educational and tourism opportunities. The task force will review research, existing infrastructure and projects, and best practices to present recommendations to the General Assembly and Gov. J.B. Pritzker by July 1.

Turner, Johnson and McClellan all want to be involved with the task force, which was the brainchild of Tazewell County Clerk John Ackerman. The Washington, Illinois, resident said the task force will be an umbrella of sorts to show the full breadth of the Underground Railroad in the state and make that information more accessible.

Underground Railroad The Second Reading Book Shop in Alton, seen June 22, 2023, is a historic building with a connection to the Underground Railroad. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

We do a good job of telling the story of the Underground Railroad through Illinois in little regional pockets  Alton, Jacksonville, Knox College. That does a disservice to the memory of the Underground Railroad, Ackerman said. The idea is not just regional projects that we know about, but finding undiscovered stories. This project is to drive local individuals, so that local history groups can start to add their story and context to the larger picture so that we can finally see the full breadth of what took place, the full length of that journey that they (freedom seekers) were on. Theyll be able to see where the pathways were, where these homes were located, and be able to take that journey themselves. And thats the aspect where we promote education, but also historic tourism.

Ackerman said he believes over 800 freedom seekers traversed Tazewell County. He said until two years ago, he was ignorant of Illinois connections to the Underground Railroad. Then he learned one of his ancestors had stayed with conductor Uriah Crosby. That ancestor bought property near participants in the Underground Railroad.

State Sen. Mike Simmons, a North Side Democrat, said that having recognition of the Underground Railroad, specifically Illinois prominence in the Underground Railroad is long overdue. As someone who has branches of his family tree in Michigan as early as 1846, Simmons said his ancestors probably used the Underground Railroad network.

Its a fascinating point of reflection that Black Americans found a way out of slavery before emancipation through the backcountry and waterways and swamps and thick forests and hostile terrains of several American states largely of their own agency, Simmons said.

Underground Railroad The Gillett House in Jacksonville, photographed using an iPhone tintype filter, is named in honor of one of its first owners, Dr. Bezaleel Gillett. Gillett was a local leader and physician who helped those seeking freedom in Jacksonville's early years. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

State Sen. David Koehler sponsored the bill after Ackerman brought the idea to him in 2022. He said that although it is a simple idea, hes never had a piece of legislation take off as quickly as this one. He said everyone wants to be a part of it. This is an issue that really brings us together as a state, he said.

State Rep. La Shawn Ford, 8th, said this endeavor is a reminder that we as a state and society have to go further. Every time we see these museums, these sites remind us of how the Black race was broken, Ford said. Is it enough to just be reminded that we were broken, or do we repair it? The way theyre doing the asylum-seekers, thats what we were doing. And thats why these asylum-seekers are being taken care of.

State Sen. Mattie Hunter introduced a bill in 2005 to create a commission to study the trans-Atlantic slave trade and its effects on African Americans. The studys data has been used to update materials outside of Illinois, she said.

Everybodys learning from this, so lets teach them, Hunter said. I hope and pray to God that it will lead to reparations. Black people all over the world are talking about reparations.

From stories to movement

If more in-depth awareness and knowledge are presented to all going forward, how does that translate to specific Underground Railroad sites? A number of ideas are in the works.

McClellan is doing what he can to gather local and state organization partners to create a Chicago Detroit Freedom Heritage Trail, which will commemorate freedom seekers journeys from one city to the other. Travelers will make their way through Bronzeville, stopping at Quinn Chapel AME in Chicago and then start on the Sauk Trail, sharing stories at the sites along the way. His goal is to then connect Illinois historic Underground Railroad sites and stories to those in northwest Indiana and Michigan.

Underground Railroad In the mid-1800s, Quinn Chapel AME Church in Chicago became a station on the Underground Railroad, a secret network of travel routes and safe houses that were used to guide enslaved people to free states in the northern United States and Canada. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

As an author of historic site designations in Milwaukee and Michigan, Kimberly Simmons, a descendant of St. Louis freedom seeker Caroline Quarlls, is working on making the Detroit River a UNESCO World Heritage Site. She wants to get the river on the 2027 designation list because thousands of freedom seekers used it on their journeys.

Gerald McWorter is a great-great-grandson of Free Frank McWorter, the first African American to establish a planned community in the U.S. with New Philadelphia, Illinois. McWorter said theres talk about developing a Corridor of Freedom along Illinois Highway 72 by February. Kate Williams, McWorters wife, said the corridors purpose is to help people further understand why this region was called a honeycomb with abolitionism. She said the corridor will highlight the diversity of historically rural America and the role Black people played.

Its a moment to take charge of what is the Black abolitionists history in Illinois, and how it can be presented to people, because I dont think anyone has really asked that question, Williams said. And with the corridor, were beginning to ask it.

McWorter said his great-grandfather Solomon married a woman from Springfield, and the correspondence that highlights those types of connections is the focus of this emergent corridor.

Underground Railroad People walk near the Lincoln Tomb, the final resting place of President Abraham Lincoln, in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield on July 18, 2023. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

All of these towns are connected; thats why were developing this Corridor of Freedom, he said. Between Abraham Lincoln in Springfield and Mark Twain in Hannibal, Missouri, is Jacksonville, Pittsfield, Barry, Quincy. Looking at the six cities, there is a set of museums, all of which have exhibits on New Philadelphia. The corridor will link together Underground Railroad sites, the historical development of Black communities in all of those places, as well as in each case, their connection to New Philadelphia.

Brooklyn, Illinois, has an ongoing campaign to preserve its existence. Declining population, a limited economy and tax base, and loss of land due to railroads, have placed Brooklyn on Landmarks Illinois endangered list this year. Regional advocacy manager Quinn Adamowski said his organization is working closely with the towns historical society to make sure the area remains on the map.

What wed like to do here in the very near term is put together a task force of people ... that can help bring together a plan of action for Brooklyn, Adamowski said. The more this story gets out there, the more likelihood there is for resources to come, whether they be financial, human capital.

Underground Railroad Quinn Chapel AME Church in Brooklyn, seen June 21, 2023, is an Underground Railroad site. The pastor of the church dreams of opening a small freedom village on the property for kids to learn Underground Railroad history at their level. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

With the Underground Railroad task force on the horizon in Illinois, Adamowski said its important to have regional representation. The task force presents a huge opportunity for communities across the state, he said.

Former historical society president Roberta Rogers has passed the baton to Robert White III. Former Attempts by Brooklynites to leave their mark on the area with marked pavers have been thwarted in the past, but plans continue. Quinn Chapel AME pastor Aurelia Jackson said she dreams of opening a small Freedom Village in the lot next to the sanctuary for kids to learn the Underground Railroad history at their level.

National Park Service Network to Freedom

This year marks some notable occasions for the Underground Railroad: the 100th birthday celebration of Mary Ann Camberton Shadd Cary, an anti-slavery activist, the first Black woman publisher in North America, the first female publisher in Canada, and the second Black woman to attend law school in the U.S.; the 100th North Buxton Homecoming, a celebration over Labor Day weekend that brings freedom seekers descendants to the area; and the 25th anniversary of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, which has hundreds of significant locations, programs and monuments.

Underground Railroad A grave marker reads "Henry Hawkins Family" in the first Black cemetery on Eagle Park Road in Brooklyn, Illinois, on June 22, 2023. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

The landmark designations all started with Vincent deForest, his brother Robert deForrest and their creation of the Afro-American Bicentennial Corp. When the brothers, who spell their last names differently, found that only three sites related to Black folks existed on the register for landmarks of over 1,500 nationwide, they did something about it. By bringing notable athletes into the Civil Rights Movement, the Ohio siblings forged a corporation that would nominate Black history sites as landmarks to the Department of the Interior National Park Service.

At 87, deForest, recalls the work as one of inclusivity. I find it very difficult to stand still when things are happening around me, particularly when I think that I know better, deForest said. Freedom is not something that has meaning in just this country; it has meaning all over the world, in one form or another. All of this plays into that.

Underground Railroad The Old Rock House in Alton, seen June 22, 2023, is an Underground Railroad site. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

To ensure that historical preservation continues, deForest said we must ensure that youths have an appreciation for the value of the work that was done before them.

Getting that work into the classrooms, thats all of our responsibility. Its more than just Ron DeSantis, deForest said. I think that there is a movement of forces that dont want to see this happening; it is our new Civil Rights Movement right in front of us now. But the government cant do it. We are the government.

Barry Jurgensen, Midwest regional manager of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, works with local communities and a 13-state region to promote the preservation of Underground Railroad sites. Jurgensen walked from Nebraska to Chicago to raise money to fight modern-day slavery in 2016. Since started his current job in November, he has seen his first nomination, the Israel and Avis Blodgett House in Downers Grove, make the list.

We invite communities to help us grow what we collectively know about the Underground Railroad by going back into their local histories, identifying people of African descent who lived in their communities in the 19th century to the early 1900s, and researching those individuals stories, he said.

Underground Railroad The Israel and Avis Blodgett House in Downers Grove, seen Aug. 15, 2023, was recently added to the list of Underground Railroad sites. Several members of the Blodgett family were active in the abolitionist cause. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

According to Jurgensen, the biggest issues facing the Underground Railroad sites are finding the resources to restore and maintain historic buildings and creating the next generation of stewards.

He hopes the Illinois task force will bring more attention to the stories of free Black communities and freedom seekers, as they were the nucleus of the Underground Railroad. He also hopes that more research on the role of women is brought to the fore.

These are the stories that are the most elusive to discover. The documentation is there; it always has been, we just have to find it, Jurgensen said. Communities, their youth and local area experts are critical to unlocking this history and are always an important element in many initiatives to preserve and promote the Underground Railroad.
Nearly two years after a 69-year-old man was charged with murdering and dismembering a 47-year-old former Erie woman in Tampa, Florida, the case has yet to be scheduled for trial.

The case of the defendant, Robert L. Kessler, accused in the death of Stephanie Crone-Overholts, was continued with no trial date set following a brief hearing Thursday at a Hillsborough County courthouse in Tampa, a spokesman for the county court system told the Erie Times-News.

The spokesman said Kessler was escorted out of the courtroom just as the hearing was starting and was reported to not be feeling well. The next hearing in his case is scheduled for Dec. 12.

Stephanie Crane-Overholts, 47, an Erie native, was killed in Tampa, Florida, in November 2021, according to the Tampa police. Her remains were found in McKay Bay, off Tampa Bay, on Nov. 11 and 12, 2021. Tampa-area resident Robert L. Kessler is charged with first-degree murder and abuse of a dead human body in the case.

Kessler's case has been the subject of a number of disposition hearings, similar to status conferences, since his arrest on Nov, 24, 2021. Before Thursday's hearing, the last disposition hearing for Kessler was in February.

What are the charges against Kessler?

Kessler, now 71, is charged with first-degree murder and abuse of a dead human body in the death of Crone-Overholts, an Erie native.

Kessler is accused of killing Crone-Overholts at his house in Lutz, about 15 miles north of Tampa, on Nov. 5, 2021, and dismembering her body and throwing the body parts off a bridge over McKay Bay, an inlet of Tampa Bay. Authorities recovered the remains after witnesses spotted them in the water on Nov. 11 and Nov. 12, 2021.

Kessler has been held at a jail in Hillsborough County since his arrest. The State Attorney's Office for Hillsborough County is not seeking the death penalty, but Kessler would face a life sentence with no parole if he is convicted of first-degree murder, a premeditated killing.

What was the relationship between Kessler and Crone-Overholts?

Crone-Overholts moved to Florida from Erie in the fall of 2020. She had lived in the city and in Millcreek Township and the Girard-Lake City area. The investigation of her death in Tampa involved the Erie police.

Her mother, who lives in Erie County, filed a missing-person report with the Erie police on Nov. 11, saying she had been unable to reach her daughter and was concerned about her. Erie police shared the information with Tampa police, who on Nov. 11 recovered the first body part from McKay Bay.

Kessler said he had met Crone-Overholts at a McDonald's and said she had been living out of her car and that he invited her to live with him, according to police and media reports in Florida. Kessler is accused of killing Crone-Overholts  possibly stabbing her in the neck  in a bedroom at his house and then dismembering her body, police said.

DNA from blood found in the house and on Kessler's shoes matched the DNA of Crone-Overholts' blood, according to the arrest affidavit. Her blood was also found in her car, a 2008 silver Hyundai Elantra with a Pennsylvania license plate, police said.

As part of the investigation, police interviewed Kessler's 8-year-old daughter, according to the arrest affidavit. The daughter said that Crone-Overholts had been living with her and her father for about a week before she was last seen at the house on Nov. 5.

Police said the daughter told investigators that her father and Crone-Overholts argued about money before Crone-Overholts disappeared.

Kessler has pleaded not guilty.

In court: Prosecution opts against seeking death penalty in Erie woman's killing, dismemberment in Florida

Local link: Police explore connection between missing Erie woman, body parts found in Tampa, Florida

Contact Ed Palattella at epalattella@timesnews.com. Follow him on X @ETNpalattella.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Hearing in FL yields no trial date in 2021 murder of Erie native
(WHTM)  American Honda Motors is recalling about 391,800 of its lawnmowers and pressure washer engines due to an injury hazard, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The Honda HRN216 and HRX217K6 lawnmowers and the GCV170/200 G5B pressure washer engines are involved in the recall.

The CPSC states that the camshafts in the engines have been improperly manufactured, causing the starter rope to suddenly retract when pulling to start. So far, Honda has received seven injury reports.

What are the lights placed above traffic signals in Pennsylvania?

The red and black gas-fueled walk-behind lawnmowers have the model and serial number located on the mower deck. The pressure washer engines serial number is engraved on the engine.

There have been 2,197 reports related to the camshaft failures.

Recalled Honda HRX217K6 Lawnmower

Recalled Honda HRN216 Lawnmower

Recalled Honda GCV170/200 G5B Pressure Washer Engine

Consumers have been asked to immediately stop using the recalled lawnmowers and pressure washers equipped with these engines and to contact the Honda Power Equipment dealer for a free inspection and repair.

The lawnmowers were sold nationwide from May 2022 to June 2023 at Honda Power Equipment dealers, Ace Hardware, Home Depot, Lowes, Northern Tool, and various farm, agricultural, and rental stores.

The pressure washer engines were sold nationwide from June 2022 to August 2023 at Lowes, Home Depot and other retail stores.

For more information, contact American Honda Motor toll-free at 888-888-3139 from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or online at powerequipment.honda.com/support/recalls-and-updates or crmshonda.my.salesforce-sites.com/service/pew2c.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com.
Neptune Beach Police Department is asking the community for any information involving a wanted suspect.

The suspect is wanted for numerous cases of arson and criminal mischief in Kings Road and Nightfall Drive in Neptune Beach.

Read: DeSantis signs extradition warrant to bring woman accused in ex-husbands murder back to Florida

On Sept. 14 between the hours of 12:15 a.m. through 1:15 a.m. multiple acts of vandalism and arson occurred.

According to NBPD, at one location, surveillance video shows a suspect approaching a houses front door holding something on fire.

Read: FHP: Driver seriously injured after an overnight crash between 2 semi-trucks on I-10 in Duval County

The description of the suspect is a medium to heavy-set white male with a long beard, wearing glasses, a grey t-shirt, black shorts, and barefoot.

Read: JSO: Woman found shot dead in car found by bystander in Jacksonville Heights

The resident does not know who he is.

If you live in the area, NBPD is requesting that you review your surveillance video and notify them if you also captured the suspect on film. If you have any information, we urge you to call us at 904-270-2413 or to remain anonymous and be potentially eligible for a reward, you can contact First Coast Crime Stoppers @ 1-866-845-TIPS (8477).

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

[SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter]

Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.
A man accused of selling fake Social Security cards in Central Kentucky while being monitored by federal agents has pleaded guilty to federal crimes.

Tomas Leal-Paez pleaded guilty to possessing a counterfeit permanent resident card and possessing a counterfeit Social Security card in federal court Friday. Leal-Paez was formerly indicted on four counts of the same charges in June.

Leal-Paez sold fake IDs, fake drivers licenses and green cards to undocumented immigrants, primarily from Mexico, according to an affidavit filed into court records.

The plea agreement references two transactions in Madison and Fayette counties where Leal-Paez sold permanent resident cards and Social Security cards to confidential informants in January and April 2023.

Federal investigators tracked Leal-Paez since 2019 after they arrested his family member for using the fake documents to obtain employment. Some identification cards were purchased in 2016  three years before the investigation began, according to court documents.

Over the course of four years, the FBI used the family member to text, call and set up meetings to exchange documents for money with Leal-Paez, whose true identity was unknown to investigators throughout.

Agents were able to determine another phone number Lael-Paez was in contact with to have the cards and documents habitually manufactured. The number belonged to another man readily available to Leal-Paez.

Leal-Paez faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 and supervised release for six years. The conviction could affect his immigration status because he is not a citizen of the United States.

Leal-Paez is scheduled for sentencing on Dec. 11.
The Russian pilot who defected to Ukraine with a helicopter last month is now helping Ukraine fight Russia.

Maksym Kuzminov is providing Russian aviation intelligence to Ukraine, officials claim.

Ukraine says Kuzminov was rewarded with $500,000, and he and his parents are safe in Ukraine.

The Russian pilot who defected to Ukraine with a Mi-8 helicopter last month is arming Ukraine with more than just military equipment, according to the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine.

Maksym Kuzminov, the helicopter pilot who Ukraine says switched sides in a daring defection, is now providing the Ukrainian military with key Russian aviation intelligence, according to an interview with Kuzminov released by the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine.

Kuzminov is sharing information about Russia's communication systems and airfields network with Ukraine's intelligence service, the agency said.

The interview with Kuzminov, in which he publicly discussed his defection for the first time, was included in a one-hour documentary titled "Downed Russian Pilots" that was uploaded to YouTube by Ukraine's defense intelligence earlier this month.

"By this well-planned and managed mission, we managed to cause a lot of sensitive and shocking harm to the Russian Airspace military forces," Artem Shevchenko, a military journalist who narrated the documentary, said.

News of Kuzminov's defection was first made public by Ukraine in late August, but the side-switching itself culminated in a tense showdown in a Kharkiv airfield on August 9.

Kuzminov first reached out to Ukraine's Defense Intelligence at the end of 2022, jumpstarting a plan for him to flee Russia with his helicopter. After months of planning, which included the removal of Kuzminov's parents from Russia to Ukraine, he finally made his move in August, flying the helicopter at a low altitude in radio silence mode across the border and into Ukrainian territory.

Two other crew members were on board who were not aware of the defection and when they tried to flee they were "eliminated," Ukrainian officials told Radio Free Europe in August.

Ukraine's defense intelligence said in the documentary that Kuzminov was injured in the final stage of the defection but was quickly treated with medical assistance.

Footage in the documentary shows the Mi-8 helicopter sitting in a large grass field as Ukrainian service members circle the aircraft and look inside. One photo shows two Ukrainian soldiers standing in front of the helicopter with their thumbs up.

After Kuzminov landed in the Kharkiv region, the helicopter was eventually moved to safer territory, Ukraine's defense intelligence said.

The 2016 Mi-8 AMTSh hails from Russia's 319 separate helicopter regiment based in the Primorsky Region. The aircraft will be used to "replenish" Ukraine's military fleet, the defense intelligence said.

Kuzminov and his family are currently safe in Ukraine. The pilot was rewarded with $500,000 for defecting with his helicopter after the Ukrainian government last year implemented a program that incentivizes Russian military members to defect with their equipment in exchange for hefty monetary rewards.

In his interview, Kuzminov said he defected to avoid being complicit in Russia's "crimes" and encouraged other Russian service members to follow his lead and defect.

"Ukraine is going to win this war, this is for certain," Kuzminov said. "Because Ukrainian nation has united tremendously."

Andrii Yusov, an official with Ukraine's Defense Intelligence, told Radio Svoboda this week that there has been a 70% daily uptick in calls to a state-run defection hotline since Kuzminov's defection was made public.

Read the original article on Business Insider
To counter Russian aggression both today and in the future, one thing is clear: Ukraine must strengthen its economic capacity.

Ukrainians cannot realistically expect foreign investments to flow into the country until Russian hostility subsides.

Thus, the only resource we can truly rely on is the business community currently committed to remaining in Ukraine. Local businessessmall, mid-sized, and largerepresent the future of the nation.

Surprisingly, however, Ukrainian authorities seem to undervalue the importance of their most valuable internal resource, placing their bets on significant foreign support and potential reparations from Russia as the means to stabilise the economy.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian businesses  especially those of medium size  grapple with a burdensome taxation system.

The flawed tax administration consistently ranks high in business polls, second only to issues like a drop in demand and other war-related complications.

But its not just the magnitude of the taxes that concerns businesses (even though taxation is by no means insignificant)  it is also the disruptive manner in which authorities handle tax and customs collections.

'Guilty until found innocent'

Remember: The Ukrainian law enforcement system is not merely weak; it is dysfunctional and unreliable.

A lack of trust in the judiciary and law enforcement has led authorities to base tax and customs collections on a presumption of guilt.

Can you imagine how the economy of any major Western country would perform if one had to gather a heap of documents for every transaction, just to prove your good intentions?

A woman takes pictures with a "I Love Ukraine" sign in Kyiv, July 2023 - AP Photo/Jae C. Hong

Unlike in developed countries where tax administration relies on the inevitability of punishment for tax evasion, the Ukrainian system operates on the assumption that all taxpayers are potentially planning to commit a crime.

Therefore, taxpayers are required to provide proof for every single transaction, demonstrating that they have no ill intent.

Can you imagine how the economy of any major Western country would perform if one had to gather a heap of documents for every transaction, just to prove your good intentions?

The Gordian knot that needs untangling

The visa application process is a fitting analogy. Consider how every EU or American citizen who plans to visit mainland China must obtain a visa.

They gather the necessary documents and fill out the required forms, yet the visa's approval is not guaranteed. Instead, approval is at the discretion of a Chinese officer.

Ukrainian businesses face a similar challenge with their government, needing a metaphorical visa for every reporting period to continue operations.

Businesses have put forth numerous proposals to address this issue, ranging from a simplified tax on withdrawn capital to the more radical idea of abolishing the VAT (Value Added Tax) in favour of a sales tax.

The authorities refuse to acknowledge the problem, asserting that Ukrainian taxpayers simply don't want to pay taxes  which is not true.

A couple share a laugh in a subway car in Kyiv, July 2023 - AP Photo/Jae C. Hong

While the former is more feasible, the latter seems improbable given European Union mandates that all member states implement a VAT.

The authorities refuse to acknowledge the problem, asserting that Ukrainian taxpayers simply don't want to pay taxes  which is not true.

Something must be done to untangle this Gordian knot. Otherwise, Ukraine will find itself continually and indefinitely seeking more financial support from EU and US taxpayers, just to stay afloat for years to come.

Fixing the disruptive tax administration isnt a straightforward task. In a setting where the rule of law is non-functional, presumption of guilt administrative practices are highly discretionary and largely corrupt. However, a solution is necessary.

GDP growth is tied to reducing corruption

In the West, there is a significant focus on the issue of corruption in Ukraine.

Individual accountability for corrupt actions is undeniably crucial. Yet there seems to be less emphasis on addressing the tools and systems that enable corruption in the first place.

Research from the International Monetary Fund indicates that Ukraine could see an additional 0.85% in annual GDP growth if corruption were reduced to levels seen in neighbouring countries like Bulgaria and Romania, members of both the EU and NATO.

Simply eliminating one document, the 'deeds of transfer and acceptance'  which tax authorities use extensively to exert discretionary power  could save businesses around 0.6% of GDP annually.

Activists attend a rally in front of Ukraine's Prosecutor General's Office protesting against corruption in the court system and demanding reforms in Kyiv, February 2021 - AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky

CASE Ukraine's own estimates suggest that simply eliminating one document, the deeds of transfer and acceptance  which tax authorities use extensively to exert discretionary power  could save businesses around 0.6% of GDP annually.

This particular document is not utilised anywhere else globally, except in post-Soviet nations.

And it represents only a fraction of the vast system in place that leverages presumption of guilt practices against taxpayers in Ukraine.

Be the reformers Ukrainians desperately need

This is why a petition was initiated and addressed to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, urging the elimination of the presumption of guilt practices in tax and customs administration.

The petition garnered the required 25,000 votes, an impressive number for a tax-related issue in Ukraine, indicating that there is significant concern for thousands of businesses.

President Zelenskyy even responded favourably to it. However, the Ministry of Finance countered, asserting that there isn't an issue and the existing law clearly establishes a presumption of innocence in taxation practices.

This response, once again, highlights the disconnect between the written law and the actual practice on the ground.

Ukraines businesses are left bearing the consequences and struggling to stay afloat, while our nations growth potential is hindered.

The path to a brighter future for the Ukrainian economy is clear. The only question that remains is, can policymakers be pressured into becoming the reformers that Ukraines people so desperately need?

Dmytro Boyarchuk serves as Executive Director of CASE Ukraine, a think tank based in Kyiv.

At Euronews, we believe all views matter. Contact us at view@euronews.com to send pitches or submissions and be part of the conversation.
(Bloomberg) -- The Niger authorities freed a French citizen who has been detained for almost a week, Frances foreign ministry said.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Stephane Jullien, who acts as a representative for French expatriates in Niger and as a liaison to French diplomatic services, was released on Wednesday, according to a statement issued by the ministry on Thursday. He was arrested on Sept. 8.

A military junta took over power at the end of July, overthrowing President Mohamed Bazoum . France doesnt recognize the junta, which has demanded the withdrawal of French troops and threatened to remove the French ambassador, a demand that President Emmanuel Macron has rejected.

Read More: Macron Refuses Niger Junta Demand to Withdraw French Forces

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
High-tension electrical power lines are seen at the Azura-Edo IPP on the outskirt of Benin City

By MacDonald Dzirutwe

LAGOS (Reuters) -Nigeria's electricity distribution companies reported "a total system collapse" on Thursday after a fire on a major transmission line, causing widespread blackouts across Africa's biggest economy, before power slowly started to return.

Adebayo Adelabu, minister for power, said fire had caused an explosion on a transmission line connecting the Kainji and Jebba power plants in north central Niger state, tripping the grid.

"The fire has been fully arrested and over half of the connections are now up and the rest will be fully restored in no time," Adelabu said in a statement.

Power generation fell to zero in the early hours but had risen to 1,341 megawatts (MW) by 1400 GMT, still well below the daily average of 4,100 MW, data from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) showed.

TCN did not respond to a request for comment.

Grid power is erratic in Nigeria, a major oil and gas producer, forcing households and businesses including oil firms and manufacturers to resort to diesel and petrol generators.

"The cost of fuelling a generator is eating into our finances and, as a tech business that relies on power, this is a heavy burden to bear," said Dickcion Bolodeku, an executive at technology firm Bayelsa Tech Hub in the southern oil-producing Bayelsa state, noting that President Bola Tinubu removed a subsidy on fuel in May.

In Lagos, despite enduring power cuts on an almost daily basis, some people were surprised at the nationwide blackout.

Lagos-based Eko Electricity Distribution Company, one of the biggest, said grid power was being restored.

The grid collapsed at least four times in 2022, which authorities blamed on technical problems.

Nigeria has 12,500 MW of installed capacity but produces about a quarter of that.

(Reporting by MacDonald Dzirutwe in Lagos and Tife Owolabi in Yenagoa; editing by Jason Neely and Mark Potter)
Tourists watch an interactive show at the Grand Tang Mall in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, May 8, 2023. (Photo by Zou Jingyi/Xinhua)

Even after 10:00 p.m. on a typical weekday, the Grand Tang Mall, a bustling pedestrian area in the northwestern city of Xi'an, was teeming with people, with dazzling lights and vibrant music adding to the lively aura.



The main street of this area features Tang-style pavilions and decorations, and people of various ages, dressed in traditional Chinese attire, taking a leisurely stroll is a common sight. The scenes evoke a sensation akin to stepping back in time to Chang'an, the old name for Xi'an and the capital of China's Tang Dynasty (618-907).

Nevertheless, this alone doesn't fully elucidate why this modern recreation has transformed into one of Xi'an's premier tourist destinations.

Lately, tourists have been increasingly drawn to a series of outdoor performances along the street, featuring cultural elements from the Tang Dynasty but presented with a contemporary approach.

Towards the north end of the block, a crowd of people stood in a circle around a stage, intermittently laughing and cheering.

Onstage, two talk-show comedians portrayed the roles of Fang Xuanling and Du Ruhui, two prominent figures from the Tang Dynasty. They engaged one of the spectators in a lively quiz about Chinese culture, and even if the answers were incorrect, the guest enthusiastically joined in for snapshots with the actors.

"Such an innovative way of combining tourism with culture is good for people to gain some basic knowledge about our culture," said a tourist surnamed Zhu who hails from Beijing.

Here, visitors could also engage in conversations about ancient Chinese poetry with acclaimed poets such as Li Bai or Bai Juyi from the Tang Dynasty, impersonated by actors. Within a mere hundred meters of each other, captivating musicals and dance performances skillfully blended traditional and contemporary elements, making for an immersive cultural experience.

These interactive programs, with strong cultural values, produced by the Grand Tang Mall in recent years have emerged as the new name card of the tourism industry of Xi'an.

As per the official performance schedule, there are more than 20 regular programs, each lasting approximately 10 minutes, which are often repeated multiple times every evening. A travel tip circulating on social media advises that arriving early and securing a spot is essential to enjoy a good view of the popular shows.

"There is a classic story behind almost every performance and the setting for every program retells the history vividly," said a tourist surnamed Wang.

The cultural tourism block stretches from the famous historical landmark, the Great Wild Goose Pagoda, in the north, covering an area of 2,100 meters in length and 500 meters in width.

First constructed in the 1990s, it left the impression of an inauthentic ancient street built in a contemporary era, failing to resonate with tourists visiting Xi'an. However, in 2018, the Qujiang New District initiated a comprehensive project to enhance and revitalize the compound.

"The upgrade included not only the reconstruction of facilities but, more importantly, the production of a series of immersive and interactive performances that seamlessly integrate art with architecture, breathing life and character into the block," said Gao Ruixia, executive deputy general manager of the company running the cultural block.

"Tang Dynasty was a glamorous and romantic period in history adorned by poetry and art performances. We will continue to explore the cultural representations of that era to develop new productions so visitors can feel its charm," Gao added.

Statistics show that the Grand Tang Mall has received a daily average of 300,000 tourists since June. The city of Xi'an saw a total of 200 million tourists in 2022.
Former President Donald Trump continues to lead a crowded 2024 GOP presidential field as he prepares to bring his campaign back to South Carolina on Sept. 25 in Summerville.

A new Monmouth University-Washington Post poll released Thursday bolstered his lead in the Palmetto State, with 46% of potential GOP primary voters hedging their bets on the indictment-laden candidate.

Trump's lead was equivalent to the support held by the rest of the field. The two homegrown candidates, former S.C. Gov. Nikki Haley and Sen. Tim Scott, made for just over a quarter of support.

Haley, who had been lagging behind in polls since February, has started to see polls tick in her favor. She was in second place after Trump with 18% of the votes in the SC primary poll. Meanwhile, Scott was at 10% and DeSantis, who has substantial support in the Upstate in South Carolina, was at 9%.

The poll, conducted between Sept. 6 and Sept. 11, had a sample size of 506 potential GOP primary voters in the First-in-the-South state. It also revealed what differentiated Trump voters from other South Carolina GOP voters.

Close to 81% of Trump voters in the poll believe Biden won the 2020 election through fraud. Those numbers drop down to 31% among non-Trump primary voters.

Trump voters were also asked if "whites were losing out," and nearly 65% agreed with the sentiment, opposed to 38% of the non-Trump supporters. A significant proportion (73%) feel that abortion should be illegal, though only 44% of non-Trump voters supported a total abortion ban.

Trump's return to South Carolina will come two days before the second GOP primary debate in California. The Sept. 25 Summerville rally will be held at a Sportsman Boats location in close to proximity to both Scott and Haley's stomping grounds.

The former president's presence is a constant reminder that the first challenge for GOP candidates is not Biden, it's Trump's behemoth influence, even as a recent CNN poll cast Haley as the best Republican candidate to beat President Joe Biden.

Scott's campaign recently sent a memo to the RNC to decide stage placements based on polls in early primary and caucus states like Iowa, where Scott enjoys popularity. His campaign claims polls in South Carolina, Nevada, Iowa and New Hampshire better represented where voters stood.

Devyani Chhetri covers SC politics for the Greenville News. You can reach her at @ChhetriDevyani on X or dchhetri@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Nikki Haley leads Ron DeSantis, trails Donald Trump in new poll
Cory Fleming, Alex Murdaughs accomplice in a plot to steal $4.3 million in insurance proceeds from the estate of the Murdaugh familys dead housekeeper, was sentenced to 20 years in prison Thursday in state court.

Were dealing with the consequences of the bad, and that is as bad as it gets in this case, for a lawyer who has a prior record, Judge Clifton Newman said, seemingly countering defenses that Fleming should receive a lighter sentence due to no existing criminal record. He has no prior convictions, but when you carry on a scheme of over a decade, thats a record.

Fleming, 53, an ex-lawyer and longtime Murdaugh friend who pleaded guilty Aug. 23, faced a maximum of over 190 years in prison for the charges.

The sentence for Flemings crimes against the family of Gloria Satterfield was 10 years in state prison. Fleming was also given a 10 year sentence for crimes committed against the family of Pamela Pinckney, which will run concurrently with the almost four-year federal sentence Fleming was given in August.

In total, Fleming could serve anywhere from 17 to 20 years in a South Carolina prison.

Newman called the case unprecedented in the scope and scale of its thievery.

This is I think the greatest crime for a lawyer in the history of the state of South Carolina, certainly for the number of years being faced and the impact of the crimes on the citizens of the state, Newman said before delivering the sentence. I cannot imagine anyone in the state of South Carolina going to a lawyer at this time and having complete trust in what that lawyer says to them.

Despite letters and words of support from some friends of Fleming, Newman said his sentence addresses only the consequences of his crimes.

In August, Fleming was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison by U.S. Judge Richard Gergel for what the judge called amazingly egregious conduct. Gergel also ordered Fleming to pay $102,221 in restitution, plus interest, and a $20,000 fine.

Newman said he had not reviewed Judge Gergels sentencing documents before Flemings hearing.

Ive never deferred to a federal court to guide my sentence as a state court judge, Newman said.

Fleming pleaded guilty to the federal charges in May. He also surrendered his license to practice law, and he almost certainly would have been disbarred had he not done so.

State prosecutor Creighton Waters argued that Fleming should get consecutive sentencing for his separate state charges, rather than a concurrent sentence with his federal convictions. Consecutive sentences would mean Fleming would report to state prison after serving his federal time.

It should not be buy one, get one free, Waters quipped. There needs to be independent accountability ... A lawyer should not get one-stop shopping for victimizing multiple clients over the course of a decade.

Moreover, said Waters, the state charges include a crime stealing from a client some 10 years ago, a crime that federal authorities did not charge Fleming with because of the statute of limitations. This shows the Satterfield case was not one isolated incident but part of a decade-long criminal scheme, he said.

Flemings current remorse and apologetic nature, Waters argued, came about only after a state grand jury caught him red-handed.

Flemings attorney, Deborah Barbier, challenged with Waters suggestion that Flemings 46-month federal conviction wasnt sufficient for the crimes. She asked Judge Clifton Newman for a concurrent 46-month sentence, arguing Flemings remorse and stating such a sentence would be enough to provide just punishment.

This idea that justice hasnt been served  I take issue with that, Barbier told Newman. Justice is not served ... by obtaining multiple convictions and requiring a man to serve two sentences for the same offense... No individual should be forced to serve two sentences for the exact same crimes.

Barbier also told the judge about Flemings numerous good works, including helping poor and homeless people, mentoring young lawyers and doing legal work for those who could not afford it.

At the heart of this, hes a good person who made some very bad decisions, Barbier said. We are all better than the worst thing that weve done.

Fleming, rising and speaking softly to the courtroom after his group of supporters had spoken, expressed his regrets directly. He spoke through tears at the end of his statement, acknowledging the turmoil he brought to his family.

For many years I stood in this very courtroom representing people, many of those people had broken the law. I was very aware that one bad decision or a series of bad decisions could have life changing and irreversible consequences, Fleming said. There are no excuses. I place the blame for my actions on my shoulders.

Fleming thanked the Satterfield family for their forgiveness, and apologized for his deception.

Fleming was charged with stealing the money from the estate of Gloria Satterfield, who died in 2018 after falling on the front steps at the Murdaugh family house on the 1,770-acre estate they called Moselle in rural Colleton County.

Your mother was a wonderful woman, Fleming said. You deserve someone who would not betray your trust. I did not do those things. I failed you.

The stolen money came from a scheme concocted by Murdaugh that had Fleming, an old law school friend, suing Murdaugh to get the proceeds from liability insurance paid to Satterfields estate. Murdaugh wound up with far more than Fleming in the scam.

Fleming had also pleaded guilty to stealing money 10 years ago from Pamela Pinckney, whose handicapped son had been represented by Alex Murdaugh. Murdaugh also recommended Russell Lafitte act as her sons conservator after the accident that left her and her son severely injured, and ultimately led to her sons death.

Laffitte has also been charged with numerous white-collar crimes connected to Murdaugh. He appeared before Newman on Thursday, but Newman deferred setting a trial date for Laffitte until later this fall.
By Elizabeth Piper

LONDON (Reuters) -British opposition leader Keir Starmer said on Thursday a Labour government would set up a new police unit to tackle illegal migration and suggested he was open to a returns agreement for asylum seekers with the European Union to solve the crisis.

After talks in The Hague with officials from the EU police force Europol, Starmer said the Conservative government had "lost control of our borders", as seen in the large numbers of migrants crossing the Channel to Britain.

"What I am discussing today is a security agreement, sharing of information, operationalising the way we can smash these (trafficking) gangs," he told reporters, describing as "embarrassing" a charge from the Conservatives that his plan could open the way for 100,000 asylum seekers to enter Britain.

How to tackle illegal migration is set to be a major battleground for both Labour and the Conservatives in a national election expected next year, with many voters angry over the housing of immigrants in costly hotels.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has made "stopping the boats" - the arrival of migrants across the Channel - a priority but as yet his government's policies, such as sending asylum seekers to Rwanda, have failed to get off the ground.

Starmer, whose party looks set to win the next election according to opinion polls, suggested in the Times newspaper that a Labour government could seek an EU-wide returns agreement for asylum seekers, possibly accepting quotas of migrants in return for sending back people who arrive illegally.

Sunak accused Starmer of opening the door to 100,000 EU migrants every year. "That doesn't seem like a credible plan to me to stop the boats," he told reporters.

Before Brexit, the government could ask members to take back people it could prove passed through safe European countries.

In 2019, Britain was able to transfer 263 asylum seekers back to EU countries, according to government data. That is equivalent to fewer than 1% of the just over 45,000 asylum seekers who arrived in Britain on small boats last year.

In a flurry of overseas diplomacy, Starmer will also meet French President Emmanuel Macron next week, when he might also pitch his proposals.

(Additional reporting by Muvija M, Kylie MacLellan and Andrew MacAskill; Editing by Angus MacSwan)
Gary Mayor Jerome Prince struck an optimistic tone at his final State of the City address, given on Thursday afternoon at the Marquette Park Pavilion.

The event came as Prince prepares to leave office in less than four months. He was unseated in the citys May Democratic primary election by State Sen. Eddie Melton, D-Gary, who is expected to win a decisive victory in the November general election and take office in January.

As I stand here today, I am filled with a mix of emotions, Prince told a crowd of city employees, constituents and reporters. Pride swells within me for the job I have done, often under adverse circumstances. Yet there is also a tinge of sadness, as there is still much left unfinished that I must pass on to my successor.

Prince was elected to the office in 2019, winning 48% of the vote amid an eight-candidate Democratic primary field and beating incumbent Mayor Karen Freeman Wilson, who had served as mayor since 2012. Just months after he took office the following year, his administration faced a once-in-a-century public health emergency in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prince responded with a series of restrictions on in-person government services and public gatherings.

We implemented public health policies that may have been unpopular but were necessary to safeguard lives of all of our residents, he reflected.

The pandemic also brought about one of the most significant financial boons in Garys recent history: The city received just over $80 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), passed by Congress in 2021 to mitigate the economic damage caused by COVID-19.

The money was a significant revenue boost for a city that has struggled with an anemic tax base for decades. Under Princes leadership, the city of Gary has put ARPA funds toward a broad array of programs and community investments, including a mobile mental health unit, a new YMCA and wellness facility, grants for nearly 100 local businesses affected by the pandemic, a down payment assistance program, and financial support for a new single-family subdivision, among other expenditures.

The Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana has been another boon. The city has seen its casino revenues double since it opened in 2021, Prince said. He stressed, however, that the city will continue to face significant economic challenges going forward and that long-term solutions to its budget woes will require growth in Garys tax base.

Gary must overcome its financial limitations through growth, Prince said. It takes all of us and certainly it takes commitment.

There are reasons to be optimistic about Garys future, the mayor said. Prince pointed to plans for an $8 million Fiber Smart House, on which the city recently broke ground. Developed in collaboration with the telecommunications development firm Digital Equity LLC and the conservation nonprofit Decay Devils, the project will transform Garys iconic and long-abandoned Union Station into a network operations center and technology job training facility. The project will be funded through a combination of public and private sources.

In addition to bolstering the citys digital infrastructure, he said, the Fiber Smart House will encourage others to take a second look at the city of Gary area realize that it is truly a great place to make it smart investment.

Prince also highlighted the possible return of passenger flights to the Gary/Chicago Airport, which he anticipates will commence next year after a deal is reached with an airline.

A nearly three-decade veteran of city and county government, Prince concluded his remarks by expressing gratitude for the constituents who elected him and a deep sense of satisfaction in the work he did.

As I reflect on my time in office, I can only and honestly say that I have no remorse, no regrets, Prince said, to a standing ovation. Every decision, every action was driven by a deep-rooted commitment to this city and its success.

adalton@chicagotribune.com
SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Governments have no time to lose when it comes to implementing a new global ocean treaty to protect the high seas as threats from human activities intensify, a report by environmental group Greenpeace said on Thursday.

In March, more than 100 countries completed a groundbreaking treaty to protect the high seas after years of negotiations. It was adopted at the United Nations in June and states can signal their intent to ratify it at the U.N. General Assembly on Sept. 20.

The treaty will create ocean sanctuaries that are off-limits to fishing and other human activities. Environmental groups said the agreement was a crucial part of efforts to meet a goal enshrined in last year's global biodiversity accord to protect at least 30% of the world's land and seas by 2030 - a target known as "30 by 30".

The high seas, or international waters, constitute more than 60% of the world's oceans but have not been under any protection. While the treaty addresses a major regulatory gap, it still needs to be ratified at a national level before it goes into effect.

Greenpeace said fishing hours on the high seas increased by 8.5% from 2018 to 2022, and were up 22.5% in areas that need special protection.

Unsustainable practices have also risen, including longlines that ensnare marine mammals or seabirds. Species like Pacific Bluefin tuna have lost more than 90% of their population in 30 years, the report said.

Sea temperatures hit a record 21.1 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit) in April and are driving ocean acidification and deoxygenation. The problems of plastic, oil and noise pollution have still not been brought under control, according to the environmental group.

Greenpeace warned that "new industries wait in the wings", including the mining of minerals in the seabed as well as ocean carbon removal technology, which are not yet properly regulated.

The U.N. treaty will only go into effect when it has been ratified by 60 countries. Greenpeace said that needs to happen before 2025 if there is any hope of achieving the "30 by 30" target. Funding the treaty could be the next challenge.

"We believe over 60 countries intend to sign the Treaty (at the U.N. General Assembly) on Sept. 20, which would send a very strong signal of continued global unity and momentum towards ratification," said Chris Thorne of Greenpeace's Protect the Oceans campaign.

"Reaching 30 by 30 means protecting more than 11 million square kilometres (4.3 million square miles) every year from now to 2030, so there is hardly any time to waste."

(Reporting by David Stanway; Editing by Jamie Freed)
North Koreas latest nuclear provocation is a low-cost way to continue its attempts at terrorizing the world, and the West. Kim Jong Un , North Koreas hereditary dictator heralded the completion of what the country calls a tactical nuclear attack submarine, expanding its potential nuclear threat to include submarine-based ballistic missiles.

The Stalinist dictatorships latest weapon system comes amid North Koreas announcement that he is prepared to resign the country to live forever with U.S.-led sanctions. Kim believes nuclear weapons development will still allow North Korea to develop economically. In a naval ceremony, Kim appeared at the countrys Sinpho shipyard to announce its new tactical nuclear submarine.

Some sources allege that the new submarine isnt new at all, but rather a conversion from an existing Soviet-built Romeo-class diesel-electric submarine. Either way, the North Korean government claims it is ready for both preemptive and retaliatory strikes and can counter American and South Korean invasion fleets with submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs).

The new submarine was named Hero Kim Kun Ok, after the North Korean sea story that says Kim Kun Ok led a maritime operation during the 1950-1953 Korean War that sank the USS Baltimore. According to the U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command, the Baltimore was a heavy cruiser that fought in World War II, but was decommissioned in 1947.

The North Korean Navy does not get as much attention from Western intelligence because it doesnt get much attention from the North Korean government. It is largely considered a riverine fleet, or brown water navy. Although it is comprised of hundreds of vessels, the Korean Peoples Navy is mostly midget submarines, landing craft and Soviet-made Romeo-class submarines. Many of the ships in its fleet are believed to be inoperable due to age and poor maintenance.

North Koreas Navy is also inherently split in two, with an East Coast squadron and a West Coast squadron operating within the North Korean governments declared 50-mile exclusion zone. Since the state of its naval forces is so limited, neither side is able to support the other during wartime.

Kim Jong-un. (Photo by API/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)

Kim Jong-Un inspected this new Romeo-class sub while it was being built in July 2019. In his speech at the presentation of the new submarine, he specifically detailed North Koreas new nuclear weapons strategy. Calling it a low-cost ultra modernization strategy, Kim said his plan was to remodel existing medium-sized submarines into offensive ones loaded with tactical nuclear weapons to play an important role in the modern warfare.

There is no room to step back in the drive for the expansion of the naval vessel-building industry as it is the top priority task to be fulfilled without fail, Kim reportedly said, adding that his goal was to turn his country into an advanced maritime power within five to ten years.

While North Korea has conducted submarine-based missile tests before, it has never conducted tests from this particular platform before, according to reporting by the Washington Post. David Schmerler, a weapons expert at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies, told the Post the sub appears to have two distinct sizes of launch hatches, indicating that the submarine might be capable of launching two distinct types or sizes of SLBMs.

If the Kim Kun Ok is successful, it could give North Korea a longer range for its nuclear arsenal, a range that is currently unknown by U.S. and South Korean intelligence.
(Bloomberg) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin accepted an invitation from Kim Jong Un to visit North Korea after the two held their first summit in four years, which the US believed focused on Pyongyang sending arms to help Moscow attack Ukraine.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Kims propaganda apparatus hailed the meeting held at Russias Vostochny Cosmodrome space center in the Amur region, with the official Korean Central News agency saying Thursday the two discussed issues of mutual interest, peace and security in the region and international justice.

At the end of the reception, Kim Jong Un courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK at a convenient time, KCNA said, referring to the country by its formal name. Putin accepted the invitation with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history and tradition of the Russia-DPRK friendship.

Kim left for his next destination, KCNA said without giving an indication of where that might be, calling the talks epoch-making. Putin had earlier said Kim was scheduled to visit civilian and military equipment factories in Komsomolsk-on-Amur and head to Vladivostok. One of the facilities Kim may tour is a plant that makes military aircraft.

His luxury armored train was expected to arrive at the destination late in the afternoon, local time, Yonhap News of South Korea reported, opening the possibility Kim could visit the aircraft plant Friday. He could then go to Vladivostok on Saturday to see Russias Pacific fleet and meet military officials before returning home later that night, it said.

KCNA offered few specifics on any agreements reached at the talks.

Putin doesnt have plans yet to go to North Korea, his spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Ria Novosti and other Russian media Wednesday. He said North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui would visit Moscow in October.

If Putin does visit Pyongyang, it would be the first time he has met Kim in North Korea. Putin traveled there once before in July 2000, to meet Kim Jong Il , the father of the current leader, who was at the center of international attention after he held a landmark summit in Pyongyang with then South Korean President Kim Dae-jung that raised hopes of rapprochement on the divided peninsula.

History tells us its rare for a Russian leader to go to North Korea since its usually the North Korean leader that makes the Russia visit, said Lee Sang-Sook, a research professor who specializes in North Korea diplomacy and politics at the Korean National Diplomatic Academy in Seoul.

A visit by a Russian to Pyongyang only occurred when North Korea was considered strategically important to Russia, so if Putin goes to Pyongyang this time, North Korea is now strategically crucial to Russia, she said.

The visit to the space facility underscored some of the items that may be on Kim Jong Uns wish list in exchange for supplying munitions to Russia. Pyongyang has failed twice this year to deploy a spy satellite and could be seeking assistance from Moscow in putting one into orbit. Kim may also be seeking technology that would help his regimes nuclear warheads survive the heat from reentry to the atmosphere.

North Korea has some of the worlds largest supplies of munitions that are interoperable with Soviet-era systems, which Russia needs as it burns through its stocks of artillery shells. The US has said any supplies would not alter the course of the war and has told Pyongyang it would pay a price for any arms transfers.

The US, Japan and South Korea have long said North Koreas space program helps it develop ballistic missiles and is a violation of United Nations resolutions. While Kim Jong Un was in Russia, the US, Canada and South Korea held a joint naval drill off the west coast of the peninsula to improve their response posture in the face of threats by North Korea, the South Korean Navy said in a statement.

A South Korean presidential official said North Korean weapons have been used for a long time by Russia against Ukraine, Yonhap reported. US National Security Council Spokesman John Kirby said, we obviously have concerns about any burgeoning defense relationship between North Korea and Russia.

No nation on the planet, nobody, should be helping Mr. Putin kill innocent Ukrainians, Kirby said at a White House news briefing, adding if Moscow and Pyongyang move forward with arms deals, the US will take measures to deal with it.

--With assistance from Seyoon Kim and Shinhye Kang.

(Updates with Kremlin spokesman and South Korean government.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
One of Pittsburghs biggest hospitals is growing, but the move is causing some controversy.

Residents of the North Side had a chance to voice their concerns about Allegheny General Hospitals plan to expand at Wednesdays council meeting.

Some spoke of their concerns, such as noise from the helicopter pad, while others say the hospitals expansion is a positive move.

One resident even suggested the hospital assist those who want to relocate.

AGH says they will work to resolve public concerns, like noise, traffic and parking.

The expansion includes the construction of a new neuroscience center. Hospital officials tell us the neuroscience building will offer valet for patients.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: AHN plans to build neuroscience hub on Pittsburghs North Side

Councilman Bobby Wilson said the hospital expansion offers benefits, but he wants to be mindful of the residents quality of life.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW

TRENDING NOW:

AG suing Fayette County father-son landlords for alleged illegal treatment of tenants Danelo Cavalcante: Meet Yoda, the dog who helped capture escaped prisoner Emergency crews respond to fire at Reaxis Specialty Chemical in Washington County Wife of worker who fell from roof, died in Robinson Township working to keep legacy alive DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts
Rawda Ahmed Ali Al-Shawadfy, an 18-year-old Egyptian girl who loves painting, has never imagined that one of her works could embark on a long journey to the space and float around inside China's Tiangong Space Station.

Shawadfy's artwork was selected as one of the 10 paintings taken by Chinese astronauts into space in May. The painting, titled "China Is Africa's Hope Toward Space," vividly depicts two astronauts, one Chinese and one African, shaking hands on the moon's surface, signifying the close bond between China and African countries as well as their shared dream for space exploration.

"It's an indescribable feeling of pride and sheer happiness to see my painting exhibited in space by Chinese astronauts. Such competitions and activities bring us closer to the Chinese culture," she said.

Shawadfy took part in a painting contest that began in March, which received over 2,000 artworks from 42 African countries, including Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, Cote d'Ivoire, Mali, Cameroon, Chad, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe.

In May, the Shenzhou-16 spaceship carried 10 selected artworks to the Chinese space station, where three Chinese astronauts showcased them to children and youths in Africa via video link during a special award ceremony on Wednesday.

Shawadfy witnessed the award ceremony in Cairo, along with many Egyptian children. Chinese astronauts, from their space station, expressed their admiration for the artworks created by African teenagers who participated in the competition titled "My Dream," highlighting Chinese-African space cooperation.

The event in Egypt was also attended by Chinese Ambassador Liao Liqiang and CEO of the Egyptian Space Agency Sherif Sedky.

During the ceremony, the Chinese ambassador said the popularity of the competition among Egyptian youth reflects their high hopes and best wishes for the future of Chinese-Egyptian cooperation in space endeavors.

"China and Egypt have succeeded in implementing a number of joint win-win projects within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative to serve the interests of the two countries and the two peoples," Liao continued, stressing that the Chinese-Egyptian cooperation in the field of space "has achieved fruitful achievements."

For his part, Sedky said the competition has successfully connected Chinese astronauts with African teenagers.

He also noted that space cooperation plays a "pivotal part in the strategic, long-term partnership and friendship between Egypt and China."

China and Egypt have been actively pushing forward their cooperation in space endeavors.

In June, two China-funded prototype satellites of the MisrSat II satellite project were delivered to the Egyptian side, making Egypt the first African country with the capacity to assemble, integrate, and test satellites.

"The Egyptian-Chinese partnership has been brought to fruition by the establishment and the commissioning of the satellite Assembly, Integration and Testing Center, the largest in Africa and the Middle East," Sedky added.
Parents in Lynn say the violence in their community has gone too far after shots were fired dangerously close to Lynn Vocational Technical Institute.

The barrage of gunfire at Commercial and Neptune Streets happened around 11:30 a.m. Wednesday.

It prompted a lockdown at Lynn Tech, where students walk outside throughout the school day to get to an annex building.

Lynn Police said the shots were not aimed at the school and that the shooting was not random.

That reassurance did not bring any comfort to the families who came together for a community meeting later in the night.

This is not Lynn, Lynn city of sin!, said Danielle Sims-Sanchez, whose stepdaughter attends Lynn Tech. The violence is getting out of control in this city.

Sims-Sanchez told Boston 25 News she was terrified when she learned that shots had been fired in close proximity to her stepdaughters school.

It was heartbreaking and it was scary and what you want to do is run to them, she said. Somebody couldve lost their child today.

Parents discussed the importance of families leaning on each other during what some view as an unsettling time in the community.

What comes out of this, I dont know, but something needs to happen, said Michael Satterwhite, a former Lynn School Committee member.

Surveillance video from a convenience store near Lynn Tech shows the dramatic moments that put innocent lives at risk.

Two men are seen getting out of a black Lexus.

One tries to get into an open U-Haul truck before dashing into the convenience store.

The other exits the drivers seat, walks around to the other side of the car and then starts shooting.

Investigators believe he was aiming at a white Toyota Camry that drove away.

There were no reported injuries.

We are not going to tolerate this kind of violence in proximity to our schools or anywhere in our community, said Lynn Mayor Jared Nicholson.

The gunman who ran away on foot has been identified by police as 23-year-old Anthony Bucky Gutierrez.

He remained at large as of late Wednesday night.

Police said the passenger who exited the vehicle moments before the shots were unleashed has been taken into custody.

Authorities are still looking for the Toyota Camry they believe was the target of the shooting.

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
Overland Park Police Chief Frank Donchez resigned Tuesday from his post, according to the city. No reason was provided for his resignation. (Overland Park Police Department)

The abrupt departure of Overland Park Police Chief Frank Donchez has left many city and county officials scratching their heads.

Several council members said Wednesday they had not been told a reason for Donchezs resignation, which was announced in a brief news release Tuesday evening.

The initial release from Meg Ralph, an Overland Park spokeswoman, provided no reason for his departure, saying the city does not comment on personnel information.

It was followed up by another release from the city Wednesday, detailing more information: Donchez submitted his resignation to City Manager Lori Curtis Luther on Tuesday, Sept. 12. And resignation letters are personnel records and are not available to the public.

It also stated Donchez did not have an employment contract with the city and did not receive a severance package. It said he is eligible to receive standard post-employment benefits.

The citys statement Wednesday also described an encounter Monday between Donchez and the mother of a teen shot and killed by Overland Park police in 2018. But Ralph declined to say how that incident might be connected with Donchezs resignation.

City and county leaders reached by The Star Wednesday expressed surprise about the resignation and concern about the citys lack of transparency.

I thought he was a good police chief and served the city well. I thought he was professional, Councilman Paul Lyons told The Star. I hope he resigned for a positive reason.

Councilman Faris Farassati was upset by the lack of information coming from City Hall, arguing that elected officials shouldnt be left to deal with rumors.

This is not transparent. The community needs to know. This is a publicly funded, extremely important position, Farassati said. We need to be transparent and, other than confidential personnel information, we should provide an explanation.

Johnson County Commissioner Janee Hanzlick said she was surprised and taken aback by the announcement. Thats not usually how people resign, so suddenly. I am as dumbfounded as everyone else.

The Stars attempts to reach Donchez, by phone and at his home, were unsuccessful on Wednesday.

Luther and Mayor Curt Skoog did not respond to requests for comment.

The Overland Park Police Department is facing scrutiny as four officers have been placed on paid administrative leave for more than a year; the Johnson County District Attorneys Office is investigating criminal allegations involving a police nonprofit where three of them have served as directors.

The citys follow-up email Wednesday, which came after multiple requests for comment, detailed a heated exchange Donchez had Monday at the Overland Park City Council meeting with Sheila Albers, the mother of John Albers, who was fatally shot by an officer on Jan. 20, 2018.

The shooting has continued to prompted criticism in the years since 17-year-old Albers, who was experiencing a mental health crisis, was killed. Activists called for the removal of Donchez.

The shooting resulted in a $2.3 million wrongful death settlement and a $70,000 severance paid out to Clayton Jenison, the officer who shot the teen. He was allowed to resign under ordinary circumstances, according to a form submitted to the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training, which licenses police officers in the state.

Late Monday night, Sheila Albers sent an email to Luther and Skoog recounting her conversation hours earlier with Donchez. She had asked him about the CPOST form and an interview where he said Jenison had quit before he could be reprimanded or encouraged to leave. According to CPOST records, Jenison left the department on March 4, 2018, about six weeks after he shot John Albers.

I pushed Donchez hard on the lies he told in that interview and his response was asking me if I have ever lied before. I told him I have not lied in a professional setting like that, Sheila Albers wrote to Luther and Skoog. He then said, I am sure you and Steve tell everyone you were the best parents.

She replied, John struggled with his mental health.

According to her email, Donchez replied, And you left him at his time of need.

In her email, she claimed Donchez told her that he will keep being the Chief until he retires and I can keep hoping he is not.

She ended the email by saying she said what needed to be said and did not need the city to do anything.

Email from Sheila Albers to Overland Park's city manager and mayor by The Kansas City Star on Scribd

This embedded content is not available in your region.

On Wednesday, she said she was excited that Overland Park has the opportunity to find a forward-thinking chief of police.

Donchez began his law enforcement career in 1981 in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and eventually became police chief there. He later worked as chief of police in Davenport, Iowa, before Overland Park hired him in 2014.

The city has appointed Deputy Chief Simon Happer to serve as interim police chief. Officials said the city will begin a national search to hire a new police chief as soon as possible.

The Stars Anna Spoerre and Andrea Klick contributed to this story.
John Dalaly, an Oakland County businessman who pleaded guilty to a corruption charge for paying thousands in bribes to the former head of Michigan's medical marijuana licensing board, will spend 28 months in federal prison after being sentenced by a judge Thursday in Grand Rapids.

Dalaly, 71, previously admitted to paying $68,200 in bribes, including cash payments and private jet travel, to Rick Johnson during Johnson's time as the chair of the Michigan Medical Marihuana Licensing Agency. Johnson, who was speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives from 2001 to 2004, received the bribes to expedite the licensing process for Dalaly's applications for medical marijuana dispensaries in 2018 and 2019, Dalaly previously said in court. Johnson pleaded guilty to federal corruption charges for accepting more than $110,000 in bribes, total.

John Dalaly, right, listens as his attorney Raymond Cassar, left, speaks with reporters on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, outside the federal courthouse in Grand Rapids, Mich. Dalaly, 71, received a prison sentence of 28 months after pleading to guilty providing bribes to the former chair of the now defunct Michigan Medical Marihuana Licensing Board.

Dalaly's attorney, Raymond Cassar, asked U.S. District Judge Jane Beckering to consider Dalaly's age, cooperation with federal prosecutors, and lack of criminal history when issuing a sentence. Beckering, however, said the "upside of not being caught would be tremendous" referring to the bribery scheme Dalaly and three others have been charged in.

"It must be made known to the public that bribing a public official is unacceptable in the United States of America," Beckering said. Dalaly was also fined $25,000, and was given the opportunity to turn himself in at a date determined by the U.S. Marshals Service. Beckering will recommend Dalaly serve his sentence at a prison in Morgantown, West Virginia, something requested by Cassar.

The average sentence duration for federal corruption charges are 23 months in prison, according to a report published by the U.S. Sentencing Commission.

Michigan's Medical Marihuana Licensing Board was in place from 2016 to 2019 and was abolished after recreational marijuana was legalized in Michigan. The agency was tasked with reviewing and approving medical marijuana businesses for licenses to operate in Michigan. Johnson was installed as chair by former Gov. Rick Snyder.

During the hearing, Dalaly issued an emotional statement to the judge, saying he was "ashamed, hurt and remorseful," for participating in the bribery scheme.

"The hurt, the pain and the shame I have brought to my family and others is beyond (explanation)," Dalaly said.

At an earlier court hearing, Dalaly also admitted to sending Rick Johnson's wife, $4,000 a month in consulting fees, something he characterized as Johnson's idea. Johnson's wife has not been charged in the corruption probe as part of Johnson's plea agreement.

"I think Mr. Johnson's wife should have been charged," Cassar told reporters following the hearing. "... She was the conduit for all these payments, she knew what was going on."

U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten previously said the investigation into the corruption scheme remained open and additional charges are possible.

Free Press investigation: Whitmer team, Michigan Democrats tied to Marshall mystery money in Ford battery plant fight

After Dalaly cooperated with federal investigators, prosecutors agreed to file a motion for "downward departure" asking the court to reduce Dalaly's sentencing guidelines. Dalaly was facing a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. In a brief filed earlier this month, prosecutors recommended a sentence of 30 to 37 months, and described Dalaly's cooperation as "substantial."

"During the proffers, he admitted his role in, and implicated others involved in, the bribery offense and provided details of the offense previously unknown to the government," prosecutors wrote. "... In the governments view, Dalalys proffered statements about the offense conduct were materially consistent and he has taken responsibility for his role in the offense."

Like Dalaly, the three others charged in the corruption probe to date  Johnson and lobbyists Vincent Brown and Brian Pierce, have pleaded guilty. Johnson is scheduled to be sentenced Sept. 28 for accepting more than $100,000 in bribes during his tenure as chair of the licensing board. Brown and Pierce, who've both pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit bribery, will be sentenced Oct. 18.

Contact Arpan Lobo: alobo@freepress.com. Follow him on X (Twitter) @arpanlobo.

Become a subscriber today.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: John Dalaly sentenced in medical marijuana bribery case
CARLSBAD, Calif.  The officer involved in a police shooting in Carlsbad last weekend has been identified by authorities.

According to the Carlsbad Police Department, officer Marcos Bocanegra fired his service weapon one time on Sept. 9, striking a juvenile suspect who police say pulled a firearm during a traffic stop.

Encinitas community discuss action plan to prevent further e-bike fatality

The juvenile was struck in the right arm and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Police say the 16-year-old suspect was later booked into Juvenile Hall for assault with a deadly weapon, resisting arrest, and possession of a firearm.

CPD says officer Bocanegra has been employed since May 2023 and is currently assigned to patrol.

The San Diego Police Homicide Unit was called to the scene to conduct the officer-involved shooting investigation.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call investigators at (619) 531-2293 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
ALGONA, Iowa  A police officer was shot and killed in northern Iowa on Wednesday while trying to serve an arrest warrant, setting off an intense hours-long manhunt for the suspect while residents in Algona were warned to shelter in place and lock their doors.

Algona police officer Kevin Cram, 33, had told 43-year-old Kyle Ricke he was going to be arrested at about 8 p.m. when Ricke allegedly shot Cram with a handgun, Mitch Mortvedt, assistant director of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, said at a Thursday morning news conference.

Cram died at a local hospital. Ricke was captured and arrested shortly before midnight in Minnesota, then charged in Kossuth County with first-degree murder.

Cram was a police officer in Iowa for 10 years and with the Algona Police Department since 2015, Mortvedt said. He also was a father and husband.

Algona police officer Kevin Cram was shot Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, in Algona, Iowa. He died at a local hospital.

Stephan Bayens, commissioner of the Iowa Department of Public Safety, said at the news conference that Cram was a beacon of light who died a hero.

"The law enforcement community in Kossuth County is hurting, but they are not broken. They are shaken, but they are not broken," he said. "Their hearts are heavy, but they will continue to honor Kevin's legacy by being that beacon of light in their communities."

An attempted arrest turns deadly in Algona

Mortvedt said Cram was on patrol in Algona, a town of about 5,300 residents in northern Iowa, when he was notified of the arrest warrant for a harassment charge out of Palo Alto County.

Cram went to a home on Minnesota Street, where he believed Ricke could be. Mortvedt said it's unclear whether it was Ricke's home or a family member's. That's where Cram told Ricke he would be arrested.

Algona Police Department officers sit during a press conference at the Kossuth County Election Center on Thursday, September 14, 2023 in Algona.

After shooting Cram, Ricke said "too late mother f-----," according to court documents. Court documents say Ricke also told police "I did it 'cuz I am tired of this s---."

Mortvedt said he could not say whether there were any other witnesses to the incident as the investigation continues.

Cram was found by other officers and emergency responders and taken to Kossuth Regional Health Center in Algona, where he was pronounced dead. The state medical examiner will perform an autopsy on Cram.

Kossuth County Sheriff's Office staff set up a memorial outside the Kossuth County Law Enforcement Center after the Wednesday night death of Algona police officer Kevin Cram on Thursday, September 14, 2023 in Algona.

The manhunt for a police officer's shooter

After the shooting, Ricke fled and a manhunt ensued, during which Algona residents were asked to lock their doors and vehicles and stay inside. The search included drones and police aircraft with law enforcement from Iowa and Minnesota.

Law enforcement issued a Blue Alert after Cram was shot. The notification system is similar to an Amber Alert, but it is sent to agencies registered with the Iowa Department of Public Safety to help apprehend someone suspected of killing or seriously injuring an officer on duty, according to Iowa law. It is also used if an officer goes missing while working.

Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Stephan Bayens speaks during a news conference at the Kossuth County Election Center on Thursday, September 14, 2023 in Algona.

Discovered that Ricke had fled north into Minnesota, authorities found him just before midnight in rural Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, according to a news release from the Brown County Sheriff's Office. Deputies there took Ricke into custody without incident. The area is about two hours north of Algona and to the west of Mankato.

Ricke will be extradited back to Iowa at a later date.

What happened before Ricke's arrest

Ricke had been in court earlier Wednesday, where he pleaded not guilty to a charge of third-degree harassment out of Kossuth County. He was accused of contacting a victim several times over the course of two hours and again several days later after police told him not to.

On Thursday morning, law enforcement was still processing the scene of the slaying in an otherwise quiet community. Caution tape blocked off access to a wooded area down a hill near the house where the shooting happened off a gravel road that appears to be just outside Algona city limits. The site is near a ravine behind a residential neighborhood on the south side of town.

Iowa Department of Criminal Investigations vehicles are at the scene of an officer-involved shooting north of the Kossuth County Fairgrounds on South Minnesota Street on Thursday, September 14, 2023 in Algona.

Robert Nelton, who lives up the street from where the shooting happened, said he was home during the incident. He didnt hear the shooting but said his daughter and wife did.

Soon, he was following the manhunt for Ricke on a police scanner through the night. An officer came to his home and told him to keep the doors locked.

It was unreal, Nelton said.

Neighbors told to stay in their homes during manhunt

Neighbors told the Register that an officer was stationed at the nearby intersection with a long gun. They watched various agency vehicles and officers go past their homes to the site of the incident.

They also said they saw a drone fly overhead. Officers were still out at the scene in Algona late into the night Wednesday, even after Ricke was arrested in Minnesota, they said.

Neighbors near the shooting site said the killing was a sad and unexpected event for a small town like Algona. A memorial for Cram with flowers, an American flag and a poem were left at the Kossuth County Law Enforcement Center Thursday afternoon.

An insurance company downtown put on its message board: "Prayers for our community, our police department and EMS, and to all friends and family of Officer Kevin Cram." It also showed a police seal memorializing Cram.

Cram's death came on the 10-year anniversary of the shooting death of Officer Jamie Buenting, a Rockwell City police officer. Buenting and a team of officers were attempting to arrest Corey Trott on a warrant for a reported attack on Trott's mother when he was shot. Trott was sentenced to life in prison about a year later.

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird released a statement expressing sadness for the loss of a law enforcement officer and honoring his and others' sacrifices.

"Officer Cram wore the badge with honor to serve and protect," she said. "As we mourn his heartbreaking loss, we remember Officer Crams selfless service and keep his family in our prayers."

The state's congressional delegation also posted condolences on social media. "Please join me in saying an extra prayer for our men and women in blue today," Sen. Joni Ernst said.

Gov. Kim Reynolds ordered all flags in Iowa to be flown at half-staff Friday in Cram's memory.

Officer Kevin Cram died a hero, protecting his community and upholding the rule of law. Kevin and I are praying for his family, the Algona Police Department, and all the law enforcement officers in Kossuth County, Reynolds said in a statement. As flags are lowered across the state, Iowans honor Officer Crams legacy and stand united with his brothers and sisters in uniform. We will never forget his service and sacrifice.

Chris Higgins covers the eastern suburbs for the Register. Reach him at chiggins@registermedia.com or 515-423-5146 and follow him on Twitter @chris_higgins_.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Algona police officer Kevin Cram, shot by suspect in northern Iowa, dies
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  A new chapter was unveiled for the ReadOKC program on Wednesday, as the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation debuted its second On the Go! Book Bus.

ReadOKC is sparking a light in these kids to learn, to love to read and these book buses will help that, said Drew Dugan, Vice President  Education, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce.

ReadOKC On The Go! Book Bus. Image KFOR.

ReadOKC On The Go! Book Bus. Image KFOR.

LOCAL NEWS: What you need to know for the Oklahoma State Fair 2023

The programs mission is to increase OKCPS students access to reading materials to improve literacy rates district wide.

Literacy skills will open doors for our kids that otherwise would be shut out, said Dr. Sean McDaniel, OKCPS Superintendent.

Each student that visits an On the Go! Book Bus will leave with a brand-new book of their choice.

The programs first bus debuted two years ago and has distributed more than 36,000 books across the district.

With two buses now in the ReadOKC fleet, each OKCPS school will receive a book bus visit every school year. One bus is for elementary students and another for secondary students.

The second bus also includes a section dedicated to the students in the districts Newcomer Academies, who have recently moved to the United States and are often English language learners. OKCPS serves approximately 1,100 students in seven Newcomer Academies located throughout the district.

LOCAL NEWS: FREE flagpoles to honor Oklahoma veterans

The new book bus will be stocked with resources intentionally selected to meet the needs of these students, guaranteeing them access to relevant reading materials that support and encourage them as they embark on the difficult task of learning a new language, said a press release.

Mary Melon-Tully, the President and CEO, Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation added that the diversity found within OKCPS is part of what makes the district special.

Details about volunteer opportunities and information about how to donate books can be found here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Oldham County Schools' firing of its longtime attorney has led to increased costs for the district, which is now spending nearly five times as much per hour for counsel as it faces two separate lawsuits.

The two suits were both filed in August by women who worked in the district's top positions for several years before being fired at the recommendation of Superintendent Jason Radford, who began leading the district of about 12,000 students in July 2021. Both women allege they were wrongfully terminated, with one alleging she was fired for not lying to support claims made against the other.

The latest lawsuit was filed on behalf of Anne Coorssen, the district's former general counsel for 19 years, who was initially fired in September 2022. Coorssen's suit is not for wrongful termination but is related to what transpired after she was fired.

In her termination letter, Radford charged Coorssen with knowingly accepting a salary that was out of line with the district's salary schedule, a claim former Chief Financial Officer Stephanie Anderson refused to support. That refusal, according to a suit filed on Anderson's behalf, led to her also being fired.

Claims made in a lawsuit represent only one side of a case.

After three requests for comment regarding Anderson's lawsuit, a district spokeswoman said the district does not comment on pending litigation. Radford, however, answered questions about Coorssen's lawsuit in an emailed response to The Courier Journal on Wednesday.

Expensive legal representation

Coorssen worked at an hourly rate of about $68. Since Radford's initial attempt to fire her, the district has been paying an out-of-house attorney $325 an hour, according to documents obtained through an open records request.

A full year's worth of work - 2,080 hours - provided Coorssen with an annual salary of about $141,000. In contrast, Oldham has paid attorney Eric Farris $175,000 for work done from October 2022 through Aug. 8. Invoices provided to The Courier Journal did not include the number of hours worked by Farris, but assuming all of his earnings were for his hourly rate, that would mean he worked about 540 hours.

During most of that period, the district also was paying Coorssen. After she appealed her termination, a judge ruled there was no evidence to support the four separate claims made against her by Radford, including the salary dispute. The judge ordered the district to pay her through the end of her contract in July.

Anne Coorssen Employee Hearing by Krista Johnson on Scribd

This embedded content is not available in your region.

A large portion of Farris' work, according to Radford, was due to open records requests submitted by Coorssen.

Since October 2022, the district has paid $54,000 to Farris, for "assisting the District to respond to open records requests; and most of that was billed for responding to the 24 open records requests filed by Anne Coorssen alone since February 10, 2023, including two unsuccessful appeals to the Attorney General," Radford wrote.

One of those appeals related to a request by Coorssen not being responded to within the time frame required by law. The Attorney General's Office ruled that the district did not intentionally subvert the law, because a technical issue caused the delay.

Coorssen's termination was a result of Radford's "loss of trust in her," he wrote, reiterating the claims he made that a judge ruled were unsupported.

"Ms. Coorssen chose to exercise her right to challenge her termination through a classified due process hearing," Radford wrote. "The decision-maker in that hearing was a long-retired judge, whose findings are disputed by the Superintendent."

The judge who presided over the hearing was Tom McDonald, who retired from the bench in 2004, according to an online biography.

"Judge McDonald had more than 25 years of judicial experience," prior to his retirement, the bio states. "He's since developed an active private mediation and arbitration practice, with over 2300 mediations completed, with a 94% success rate."

After McDonald reinstated Coorssen's employment with the district, Coorssen said, she was not allowed to return to her office and was stripped of all duties. Her contract was non-renewed by the district, following the board's decision to eliminate the general counsel position within its administrative office.

"They had to pay me out the rest of my contract but wouldnt let me do any work," she told The Courier Journal. "They wouldnt let me come to the office."

Coorssen's suit was filed Aug. 22 and she is suing Radford in small claims court, alleging he denied her access to personal digital files and emails on her district computer drive. She is seeking $1,200 in damages.

When asked to comment on Coorssen's allegation, Radford wrote in an email that, "While it is not the Districts habit to comment on pending litigation we are also providing a highlighted copy of the Board Policy and Procedure related to the subject of her complaint, which is self-explanatory."

District policy, according to the documents provided, indicate access to district technology is a privilege, not a right.

Anderson, who served as the district's chief financial officer from 2017 until May this year, filed her suit two weeks prior to Coorssen's. Anderson alleges the board and Radford violated Kentucky's Whistleblower Act, Kentucky common law, the Kentucky Civil Rights Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act.

"The process of refusing to aid and abet a fraud was harrowing and exhausting for" Anderson, the suit says. "She had worked with Superintendent Radford for some time, and she had never seen him act so angry at her."

Stephanie Anderson v. Oldham County Board of Education by Krista Johnson on Scribd

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The suit seeks a trial by jury along with compensatory and punitive damages, attorney fees, and "an amount to be proven at trial for the humiliation, embarrassment, personal indignity, apprehension about past, current, and future well-being, physical and emotional distress and mental anguish."

That suit was initially filed in Oldham Circuit Court but has since been moved to the federal Western District of Kentucky, at the request of the school district.

That request was filed by Farris, the lawyer being paid $325 an hour, court documents show.

More: Oldham schools superintendent accused of firing top official in retaliation

Contact reporter Krista Johnson at kjohnson3@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Oldham County Schools fired its attorney. Now it pays more for counsel
Briell Redd was enjoying her trip to Kansas City until her car was illegally towed. Days later, she was refunded in full. But Redd may never visit this city again. And who could blame her?

Unscrupulous towing companies face little to no consequences for breaking the law. We have written about these tactics before but motorists are still being preyed upon. Are you listening, Kansas City officials?

Redd, 22, lives in Omaha. She is a recent graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She was here with her boyfriend over Labor Day weekend to take in a Royals game at Kauffman Stadium.

The couple enjoyed the visit so much, they decided to stay an extra night, Redd told me. On Sept. 3, she and her boyfriend rented a one-night stay at vacation rental home near the Delaware Lofts in Kansas Citys River Market.

That entire night was wasted, Redd said. I am a little disappointed.

Just after 4 p.m. that day, Redd arrived at the loft to check in, according to email correspondence she shared with me. Redd parked the black 2022 Chevy Equinox she drove in a private parking lot owned by Epoch Property Management. She didnt pay the $5 fee it costs to park for one hour.

Why not? Because minutes before, the rental homes property manager had given Redd instructions on how to enter the property to retrieve a green parking tag reserved for the lofts designated parking space. Redd did what she was told to do. Her boyfriend joined her inside.

When they returned to the parking spot, the SUV was gone. With the parking pass in hand, Redd began to worry, she told me.

I was so annoyed and nervous, she said.

Hauled away for a $5 parking violation?

After Redd discovered the SUV missing, she notified police, but she was told there was no report of the vehicle being stolen. She called around and found out the vehicle had been removed from the premises around 4:30 p.m. by Autobot Towing of Independence.

But the tow happened closer to 4:20 p.m., Redd said. If true, doesnt it seem predatory to remove someones vehicle within 15 to 20 minutes for a $5 parking violation?

None of us should be surprised. I have witnessed multiple towing companies repeatedly break the law by not following Kansas City ordinances.

Earlier this summer, I wrote about Autobot Towings questionable business practices. The company was skirting regulations and exploiting loopholes in city and state law, I wrote.

But was the removal of Redds SUV legal? No, according to Kansas City ordinances. I wanted to know from the owners why Redds vehicle was towed and how she qualified for a refund from Autobot. Others subjected to illegal practices would like to recoup their fees too.

A third-party vendor that patrols the lot summoned a tow truck to the scene, Autobot Towing manager Charles Cosgrove said through a text message. Redds vehicle was parked in a private lot, he said.

After speaking with parking patrol services, Cosgrove texted that they both agreed that the rental home should have provided Redd a parking permit upon arrival.

I know we all have a job to do, he wrote. The residents who live there pay a significant amount of money for their parking space and its frustrating and unfair to them when they come home at night and dont have a place to park because someone is illegally parked in their spot.

However in this case I do empathize with her situation and I dont believe that it was intentional. This is why I chose to refund her money.

Redd did not have the parking tag on the SUV, but it should not have been towed to begin with. Heres why: Under city ordinances regulating towing, a tow service operator must notify the Kansas City Police Department prior to removing a vehicle from private property to determine if the car is stolen. In this case, Autobot failed to contact the police.

Police not notified SUV had been taken

In an email, Kansas City Police Capt. Corey Carlisle confirmed there was no report of the tow, a clear violation of city law.

I checked with records and they dont see a 2022 Chevy Equinox on the Autobot tow list for 9/3, Carlisle wrote.

Also, city ordinance requires a full-time employee of property management companies such as Epoch to be on site and sign off on each tow. Again, the law was disregarded here, according to Redd.

I asked Epoch officials about this, but messages to the companys director of property management Ashleigh Lollar were not returned.

For hours, Redd tried but failed to retrieve the vehicle from Autobot. The SUV was leased by her father and he was the only one who could authorize the vehicles release, Redd was told by a rep for Autobot Towing. But Redds father was a 10-hour drive away. How could he approve the release, she asked the rep?

I had to get notarized authorization to retrieve the car, Redd said.

She paid a total of $332.90 to get the SUV back. She was charged a $265 tow fee. She was also docked $25 for the hook-up and a $30 per day storage fee.

For good measure, a 4% surcharge was tacked on because Redd used a credit card to settle up, which is also illegal. In Kansas City, a tow service operator cannot add extra fees because a customer uses a credit card to pay.

The SUV was finally released around 10:30 p.m. Redd was more than willing to pay whatever the cost.

I did not want to be stuck in Kansas City another day, she said.

Yes, Redd got her money back from Autobot. But the SUV she drove should have never been towed. Until Kansas City cracks down on some of these illegal towing practices, other residents and visitors to River Market will not be as fortunate.

How is that in the citys best interests?
One of the guns that was found on the shooter in the fatal Boise Towne Square shooting in 2021 was purchased 10 days earlier through an online classifieds site.

The purchase was a private sale and, in Idaho, not subject to a background check thats required of gun sales through Federal Firearm Licensed gun dealers.

Had a background check been done, the shooter, Jacob Bergquist, would not have been able to purchase the gun, because of a prior guilty plea to a third-class felony, which prohibits certain felons from possessing firearms under federal laws.

But Idaho is not among the 21 states that require a background check on private sales of handguns.

Bergquist bought the gun, a Beretta model 21A, in the parking lot of a Boise grocery store on Oct. 15, 2021, less than two weeks before he shot and killed security guard Jo Acker and shopper Roberto Padilla Arguelles on Oct. 25.

Jo Acker, left, and Roberto Padilla Arguelles were shot and killed on Oct. 25, 2021, during a shooting spree at the Boise Towne Square mall. The gunman, Jacob Bergquist, was prohibited from possessing firearms, but the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives did not determine that until after the shooting.

After firing 18 rounds that also injured four others, including a Boise police officer, Bergquist fled the mall, hid behind a dumpster and fatally shot himself in the head.

In addition to the Beretta, police found two other guns on Bergquist: a Heckler & Koch VP9, which is a 9 mm caliber pistol, and a Glock 19, also a 9 mm.

Information about the guns and the purchase of the Beretta are from a heavily redacted federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms file on Berquist, which was obtained by the Idaho Statesman through a request under the Freedom of Information Act.

Bergquist did not fire the Beretta during the mall shooting, according to Boise Police spokesperson Haley Williams. Only the Heckler and Koch was used, she said.

But the purchase of the Beretta shows how Bergquist was able to get around federal laws prohibiting him from possessing a firearm.

Bergquist, in fact, was in possession of several guns.

After the shooting, ATF, FBI and the Boise Police Department conducted a search of Bergquists home and found four more guns: a North American Arms .22 Magnum caliber revolver; a Heckler and Koch USP .45 ACP pistol; a Smith and Wesson 5906 9 mm pistol; and a Sig Sauer P320 .45 ACP caliber pistol, according to the ATF report.

The ATF report stated that the guns recovered from Bergquist at the mall and the guns at his house were submitted to the ATF Tracing Center for urgent firearm traces. A spokesperson declined to comment on whether the ATF was able to trace the other firearms or, if so, where they came from or how Bergquist came into possession of them.

Of the 11 ATF files released in response to the Statesmans request, eight were completely redacted, and several pages throughout the other files were redacted, leaving many questions still unanswered.

But unredacted were the details of Bergquists purchase of the Beretta.

Questions about straw purchase

The man who sold the gun to Bergquist had bought the Beretta, a .22 caliber pistol, at a Sportsmans Warehouse in Twin Falls on Oct. 5, 2021, according to the ATF report. The mans name was redacted.

The man told ATF agents that he didnt like the gun because it kept jamming.

About a week after purchasing the gun, he saw a posting on the online classifieds site Zidaho.com from an individual who was looking for a Beretta 21A, the man told ATF agents, according to the report. The man contacted the individual, who was later determined to be Bergquist, and the two arranged to meet in a parking lot at Fairview Avenue and Cole Road in Boise.

According to the report, ATF agents asked the man if he understood what a straw purchase is.

A straw purchase is a transaction in which one person buys a gun for someone who is not legally allowed to purchase it. Such a purchase is a federal crime punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

The man told ATF agents that he understood the law surrounding straw purchases, and he reassured agents that his was not such a case, stating that he lost money on the Beretta, according to what he told ATF agents in the report.

A receipt from Sportsmans Warehouse showed the man had purchased the gun for $479.99, before taxes, according to the report. The man told ATF agents that he sold Bergquist the Beretta for $420.

He also told ATF agents that he did not know Bergquist prior to the sale of the gun and did not have any communication with Bergquist, according to the report.

If Bergquist had tried to purchase the Beretta from a Federal Firearms License dealer, such as Sportsmans Warehouse, he would not have passed the background check, because Bergquist pleaded guilty to a third-class felony of retail theft in Illinois years before.

That felony, which carried a prison term of more than one year, prevented Bergquist from purchasing or even possessing firearms under federal gun laws.

In Idaho, however, theft is not on a list of felonies that would preclude someone from possessing a firearm.

The ATF followed up with the man who sold the gun to Bergquist and the case is now closed, according to Jason Chudy, ATF public information officer.

Chudy said the sale of the Beretta was a person-to-person sale, and the person who sold it to Bergquist was not prohibited from possessing firearms. Neither the seller nor the sale itself violated any laws, according to Chudy.

Private gun sales

Whether it was a straw purchase or not, the transaction shows how people like Bergquist can skirt federal gun laws.

This type of transaction, a private sale, has often been the subject of proposed common-sense gun regulations.

Everytown for Gun Safety, an organization that formed in 2013 when Moms Demand Action and Mayors Against Illegal Guns merged, calls for background checks on all gun sales.

Currently, background checks are done only with purchases done through Federal Firearm License dealers. Private sales, or sales between two private individuals, are not required to have a background check performed.

This loophole enables people with felony convictions, domestic abuse restraining orders, and other people with prohibiting histories to buy guns with no questions asked, according to Everytowns website. The loophole should be closed to require background checks on all gun sales  not just on the sale of firearms from licensed gun dealers.

In all, 21 states have adopted policies to require background checks and/or permits to purchase handguns, including Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Colorado and even Nebraska.

Requiring background checks of private sales would not be burdensome, as it would simply require that a private sale take place at a licensed gun dealer.

When I purchased an M-1 Carbine through a private sale, we did so at a licensed dealer, and I had a background check, which took all of three minutes.

Everytown found that as many as 1 in 9 people arranging to buy a firearm on the nations largest online gun marketplace could not legally own firearms.

Traveling to a licensed gun dealer to complete a sale instead of a grocery store parking lot wouldnt be an undue burden or an infringement on the Second Amendment rights of those who legally can have firearms. In fact, a Google search showed at least six gun dealers within 2 miles of the parking lot where Bergquist bought the Beretta, and several more within 10 miles of that location.

Bergquist, of course, wouldnt have been able to purchase a gun at all, which is the point.

Idaho gun laws

Idahos lax gun laws was one of the reasons Bergquist loved the state.

Bergquist told the man who sold him the Beretta that he loved living in Idaho because it is a 2A state, referring to the Second Amendment, and he loved the freedoms of living in Idaho. Bergquist was open-carrying a pistol on his hip at the time, according to the ATF report.

In the months prior to the mall shooting, Bergquist had come into contact with several local police agencies, raising alarms and bringing him to the attention of the ATF.

Bergquist had a run-in with Meridian police, open-carrying in a Walmart, which prohibits open carry. Bergquist became verbally abusive to the manager, according to police, and stormed off.

Boise police officers came into contact with Bergquist, again open-carrying, practically daring officers to bust him for jaywalking, apparently trying to elicit contact in order to have a confrontation with police, according to one officer. Boise police located his YouTube channel, Guns N Rodents, which was devoted to gun culture and showed very racist attitudes toward Central Americans, according to police.

He had even come into contact with Idaho State Police when he went to the office of Gov. Brad Little to talk about gun rights, according to previous Statesman reporting.

Bergquist, who had a holstered handgun on his hip inside the Capitol, requested an audience with Little to to get his thoughts on persons convicted of felonies being able to carry guns, according to an Idaho State Police trooper who accompanied Bergquist to the governors office.

Bergquist was trying to get the word out to others that they, too, could carry in Idaho, according to the trooper.

Idaho State Police flagged Bergquist for the ATF, and Boise police forwarded its report to the federal agency.

But nothing was done.

The ATF was aware that Bergquist was prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law, but the agency did not come to that conclusion until after the mall shooting, an ATF spokesperson told me last year.

ATF did receive information concerning Jacob Bergquists possession of firearms from local law enforcement and ATF did look into whether or not he was prohibited federally from possessing firearms, Chudy wrote in an emailed statement to the Idaho Statesman. It was determined that he was prohibited from possessing firearms, but that was only confirmed after the Boise shooting had occurred.

Warning signs

In Bergquists case, all the warning signs were there for months before he ended up killing two innocent people.

He should have been stopped somewhere along the way, and he certainly should have been stopped from buying guns.

Idaho should join the other 21 states that have some form of background check for at least handgun sales. For those legally entitled to own firearms, its a minor inconvenience, at worst. For guys like Bergquist, who are prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm, it would be a deal breaker.

At the very least, we should make it as difficult as possible for people like Bergquist to get a gun.

Maybe it would save some lives.
Thailand to offer visa-free entry for visitors from China, Kazakhstan

Xinhua) 08:36, September 14, 2023

Tourists take photos at the Grand Palace scenic spot in Bangkok, Thailand, June 15, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Teng)

BANGKOK, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Thailand has approved a temporary visa waiver for visitors from China and Kazakhstan during the year-end high season in support of its vital tourism industry.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Wednesday that the policy will allow Chinese and Kazakh tourists to enter the Southeast Asian nation without visa requirements beginning on Sept. 25 until the end of February 2024.

The government would evaluate the impact of this temporary scheme after it ended, Srettha told a news conference after his first cabinet meeting.

"We have discussed this with all relevant agencies to ensure that we are fully ready," he said.

As a key driver of growth, Thailand has planned to reinvigorate its tourism industry by introducing promotional materials to inform prospective travelers and help them gain confidence in visiting the country, said government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke.

Additional measures also include increasing the routes and frequency of direct flights connecting with second-tier Chinese cities, which has the potential to draw more tourists, as well as setting up an online crisis management team to tackle misinformation and bad impressions among Chinese tourists, Chai told a news conference.

He noted that with this new policy, Thailand expects to receive 28 million foreign arrivals this year, earning over 1.4 trillion baht (about 39.15 billion U.S. dollars) in revenue from inbound visitors.

The country's inbound tourists are projected to reach 40 million in 2024, with 3.1 trillion baht (about 86.68 billion U.S. dollars) in total tourism revenue, he added.

In pre-pandemic 2019, Chinese tourists accounted for about 28 percent of the nearly 40 million foreign tourists to Thailand. Tourism accounts for about 12 percent of the country's GDP.

Tourists take photos at the Grand Palace scenic spot in Bangkok, Thailand, June 15, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Teng)

Tourists take photos at the Wat Arun in Bangkok, Thailand, June 16, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Teng)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Organizers of the 81st World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon) unveiled its slogan, mascot, and emblem on Wednesday in Chengdu, the first city in China and the second in Asia to host the world's premier sci-fi event.

Chengdu Worldcon organizers unveil the event emblem at a press conference held in Chengdu, Sichuan province, Sept. 13, 2023. [Photo courtesy of Chengdu Worldcon]

To engage the global sci-fi community, the organizing committee launched a worldwide call for slogans in August. From over 5,000 entries, the final slogan, "Meet the Future," was chosen after careful deliberation.

"The 2023 Worldcon is an invitation sent out to the world by Chengdu. It calls for a collective envisioning of peaceful development and cultural exchange, letting the light of stars and dreams illuminate the era, driving continuous technological innovation and making the glow of civilization shine brightly," said Yao Haijun, a renowned Chinese sci-fi publisher and honorary co-chair of the organizing committee of the 2023 Chengdu Worldcon, at a press conference.

He highlighted Chengdu's rich history, dating back 2,300 years, as well as its vibrancy and abundance of opportunities. Emphasizing it as a city where dreams become reality, he especially praised Chengdu's commitment to pioneering technological feats, fostering industrial evolution, and nurturing future-oriented industries.

The convention's mascot, designed by artist Song Hongshu, is a cyberpunk giant panda. The design marries hi-tech mecha armor with quintessential Chengdu cultural motifs, drawing inspiration from the ancient Jinsha archaeological site and the Sanxingdui Ruins.

Yao, also the president of Chengdu Science Fiction Society, revealed that the panda's name is Kormo, a pronunciation reminiscent of "Ke" (science) combined with "Meng" (dream) in Chinese. Within its design, one can see a harmonious fusion of the ancient Shu civilization with modern technology, as well as a captivating interplay between mechanical aesthetics and imagination.

"It seeks to highlight the oriental aesthetics rooted in Chinese culture. Even amidst the rapidly advancing digital world, it maintains a distinct identity, continually exploring and ceaselessly creating," he added.

Conceptual 3D rendering of the Chengdu Worldcon mascot, Kormo. [Image courtesy of Chengdu Worldcon]

This year's Worldcon emblem also features a panda, Chengdu's iconic symbol of peace and friendship, reaching for the stars. It is surrounded by blue-green rings and planets, symbolizing technology and the future. Yao described the design as the panda navigating a space-time "wormhole," exploring the unknown universe. "This symbolizes the 81st Worldcon's efforts to push the boundaries of imagination and innovation, embracing the world and envisioning the future," Yao explained.

The organizing committee intends to unveil over 200 Kormo-themed merchandise items across 12 categories, including toys, bags, clothing, stationery and daily necessities. Organizers revealed that these products are slated for an official public release at the end of September.

This year's Worldcon, which will kick off on Oct. 18, has extended invitations to top sci-fi figures like Ben Aaronovitch, David McCarthy, Robert J. Sawyer, Liu Cixin and Weta Workshop's co-founder Richard Taylor. Esteemed film directors Frant Gwo ("The Wandering Earth") and Yang Lei ("Three-Body" TV series), along with other leaders in the sci-fi field, will also participate. The convention will feature 260 themed salons, parties and relevant events. There will be both corporate and fan exhibitions. To date, over 40 companies and more than 60 global sci-fi enthusiasts have been invited to exhibit. Exhibits will spotlight acclaimed sci-fi franchises like "The Three-Body Problem," "The Wandering Earth," and "Star Citizen," and corporate participants like National Geographic, Huawei, Tencent, and NetEase.

The convention will also unveil the winners of the prestigious 2023 Hugo Awards, the pinnacle of recognition in science fiction literature.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Memphis Police are investigating after a person was found dead in Southwest Memphis Wednesday.

Police say just before 5 p.m., officers responded to a suspicious person call in the 100 block of E. Brooks Road.

Officers found an unresponsive person inside a building suffering from what appeared to be head trauma. Police say the person was pronounced dead at the scene.

If you have any information that could help detectives, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Editors Note: Sebastien Roblin has written on the technical, historical and political aspects of international security and conflict. He holds a masters degree from Georgetown University in conflict resolution and served with the Peace Corps in China. He tweets @sebastienroblin. The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author. View more opinion on CNN.

Having repeatedly snatched victories from the jaws of defeat in 2022, Ukraines forces made far slower progress over the summer in a counteroffensive to liberate southern Ukraine from Russias grip.

By August, officials in Washington had begun leaking scathing complaints about Ukrainian battlefield performance, while Ukraines supporters blamed the Wests long delays in delivering heavy equipment for having bought Russia time to fortify its defenses.

Sebastien Roblin - Courtesy Sebastien Roblin

The backbiting, unfortunate under any circumstances given the importance of a unified front, was particularly misguided given that Ukrainian troops have recently begun gaining momentum after weeks of intense fighting.

Nonetheless, a chorus of actors wail that the summers disappointments show theres nothing more to do than to cut off assistance to Ukraine, or at least threaten to do so to pressure Kyiv into suing for peace.

The doom brigade is nothing if not consistent, having repeatedly predicted, wrongly, that Ukraine stood no chance of withstanding Russias invasion and subsequent summer and winter offensives, and that efforts to liberate Kherson province were all but hopeless.

Never mind that their proposed solution of trying to strongarm Kyiv into making territorial concessions to appease Russia is politically untenable with Ukraines public, with leaders pledging to fight on regardless of the level of support they receive. And never mind that a forced Ukrainian peace plan wouldnt appear to be matched by any overtures from the Kremlin, likely resulting in more war later just as the Wests failure to firmly respond to Russias seizure of Crimea in 2014-2015 set the stage for its invasion in 2022.

All of which means that the West needs to plan for the possibility of the war lasting several years to maximize the chances of either driving Russia out militarily or convincing Russian President Vladimir Putin that his waiting game is a losing one.

Giving up after a lackluster summer would be a mistake, even if elements of the GOP are being less supportive and the recent India-hosted G20 summit, which failed to issue a communique reiterating the prior years explicit condemnation of Russias invasion, underscored the challenge of international assistance beyond the West.

Its true that the Ukrainian counteroffensive debuted with conspicuous setbacks and hasnt advanced as much as hoped. Russias military did correct some mistakes from 2022, and when Ukraines newly Western-trained and -equipped (but inexperienced) brigades launched the counteroffensive in June, they discovered that Russian minefields were too dense and deep to breach quickly enough using mine-clearing vehicles before Russian drones, artillery and attack helicopters could detect and target them. Above all, Ukraine didnt have nearly enough vehicles to absorb the losses.

But then, Ukraines military quickly switched to the slower attrition warfare to which it was accustomed. Engineers carefully cleared lanes through vast minefields on foot. Meanwhile, Kyivs troops used artillery superiority, newly won thanks to Western deliveries of weapons, to methodically grind away at Russian batteries and manpower. Ukrainian troops manage to advance an average of 700 to 1,200 meters every five days using these methods, according to a special report by the British Royal United Services Institute think tank.

Entering September, the counteroffensive still has the potential to achieve important intermediate goals. At present, Ukraine has a couple of months left before it risks running out of the needed artillery shells, fresh combat units and time before muddy fall weather renders further major offensive operations at least temporarily unviable.

Ukraines slow progress in part reflects a risky Russian strategy to defend forward rather than taking advantage of the multiple layers of their defenses to fall back. This denied Ukraine initially easier territorial gains at the cost of heavier Russian losses. But some analysts believe Russia may finally be running low on units to hold the line, and that deeper defensive lines are much less robustly defended than the forward ones.

In August, Ukraine also finally committed elite brigades it was holding in reserve, in hopes of breaking through Russian lines first. In a large battle over the small village of Robotyne, they overcame Russian forces there and then began flanking eastwards toward Verbove, which could help Ukraine chisel a path towards key cities including Tokmak and, ultimately, Melitopol.

At the same time, Russias ability to capture or recapture Ukrainian territory this winter seems limited, given the failures of its previous, wasteful winter offensive, its losses suffered this summer and the reliably poor leadership of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and general staff chief Valery Gerasimov.

Thus, if Kyiv can retain its gains and avoid excessive losses and shell expenditures, it could continue to creep south toward Melitopol to cut the land bridge to Russias strategic bases and port in Crimea.

To be clear, Kyivs desire to liberate territory isnt some quixotic quest of national honor. Ukrainians in occupied communities have reportedly been subject to torture, mutilation, sexual violence and execution, while thousands of children have been forcibly removed from their families and deported to Russia. Moreover, land seized by Russia earlier has been used to strike ever deeper into Ukraine, making restoring defensible borders an existential concern.

To give Ukraine its best shot at liberating regions occupied by Russia since 2022, Washington and NATO need to work out multi-year plans to sustain military assistance  above all artillery systems and ammunition, followed by air defenses, drones and armored vehicles. As stores of easily donated equipment from the West dry up, new large-scale production and procurement orders funded by the US and its allies must be stepped up.

Western assistance, combined with Ukrainian courage, have helped Kyivs forces persevere in an exceptionally tough fight. Following on its boost to Ukraines artillery, in July the Biden administration began crucial supplies to Ukraine from its large stocks of controversial cluster artillery shells  a difficult decision as cluster shells leave behind long-lasting hazards to clear post-battle. But Kyiv got the ammunition needed to sustain the counteroffensive longer while awaiting expanded factory production of conventional shells in 2024.

Meanwhile, Western armored vehicles sharply reduced casualties to crew and passengers in vehicles that were hit, while French and British cruise missiles delivered effective strikes on Russian command centers and ammunition dumps as far as Crimea.

Looking ahead, the US should sustain deliveries of shells and rockets as well as Bradley fighting vehicles (credited with playing a key role at Robotyne). And the battalion of 31 Abrams tanks soon arriving in Ukraine should be followed by many more.

Those tanks will come with depleted uranium ammunition, but despite widespread claims to the contrary, multiple studies have not found these to pose health risks worse than regular anti-tank shells. Washington should also consider contributing longer-range missiles like the ATACMS missile the Biden administration, according to some insiders, may be on the verge of authorizing.

Then theres the matter of overcoming endemic foot-dragging in rebuilding Ukraines air force despite commitments to finally give Ukraine F-16A jets. These are not wonder weapons, but a vital steppingstone to helping Ukraine eventually build a modern, Western-equipped air force. NATO training must also improve in both quantity and quality, including crash courses for senior Ukrainian command staffs on planning large, complex operations that Ukraines military struggles to execute.

Let there be no mistake  the war ahead remains a horror. But by helping Ukrainians liberate their territory, the US furthers its own interests in defeating Russian aggression in Europe and demonstrating the high potential costs of wars of conquests targeting US partners.

Putin miscalculated disastrously when he invaded in Ukraine, so hes now hoping to outlast Western support for Ukraine to rescue what spoils he can. Moscows elite particularly want to hold out through 2024 in hopes that former President Donald Trump retakes office and cuts aid as opposition to support Ukraine grows within the GOP.

But folding in the face of manageable setbacks can be fatally self-defeating. During the American Civil War, Gen. George McClellan famously ran against Lincoln on a platform favoring peace with the Confederacy  even though the Souths total surrender at Appomattox followed just months later. Imagine how a successful McClellan peace plan could have inevitably led to more wars, indefensible oppression and bloodshed.

The high cost of defeating Putins invasion is lamentable. But failing to do so now could entail the US, Europe and Ukraine paying a much higher price later.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
I was a victim of state-sponsored terrorism. In January 1968, my crewmates and I were aboard the USS Pueblo, a Navy intelligence vessel, when the unthinkable happened. We were attacked and taken hostage by North Korea. We spent the next 11 months as captives of a terrorist regime under horrific conditions I dont wish to revisit.

When we boarded that ship, we did so to serve our country. We were targeted because we were Americans. The North Korean regime kidnapped us, held us against our will, and tortured us. Im grateful to have made it out alive. One of my fellow crewmen who was killed during the attack.

There are thousands of other Americans who have suffered from state-sponsored terrorism. Some were civilians in the wrong place at the wrong time. Others, like me, went abroad to serve our country as diplomats, intelligence officers, or members of our armed forces. For decades, all of us were denied justice because the backers and perpetrators of these abhorrent attacks could not be held accountable.

In 2015, tides finally started turning. Congress already allowed victims to sue the foreign states responsible for these acts of violence, but there was no way for the victims to collect, even if a court awarded a judgment. So, Congress created the U.S. Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism (USVSST) Fund. We finally had recourse to take our attackers to court, potentially win, and collect a judgment.

These judgments were meant to help compensate us and our families for the mental, physical, and emotional turmoil we still suffer after so many years. This vund is a vital resource for victims of state-sponsored terrorism, who for decades were overlooked or forgotten. I speak from personal experience when I say that these payments truly help victims get justice and rebuild lives.

Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa was a key champion of the legislation that created the USVSST Fund in 2015. It was supposed to be the vehicle for providing compensation through annual distributions. Grassley has been a victims advocate for many years. Hes worked to ensure that victims of state-sponsored terrorism and their families have the resources needed to heal and move forward. I thank him for his leadership on those efforts.

It was on Jan. 23, 1968, when the USS Pueblo, an intelligence ship, was engaged in a surveillance mission and was intercepted and its crew taken into captivity by North Korea.

Unfortunately, the fund, which gets its money from those caught doing business with terrorists, is now depleted. Many victims have received a tiny fraction of what courts awarded, and others have received nothing at all. The Justice Department is not putting money into the Fund as Congress clearly intended. There is also other available funding that could be contributed without using any new taxpayer dollars. Congress can fix this by passing legislation to "fund the Fund," and it should act now while the victims and families are still alive.

Winning a judgment against North Korea helped me and my Pueblo crewmates get some sense of justice and closure, and for that I am grateful. I am also grateful for the payment we received from the fund in 2023, but it was less than 1% of what the court awarded.

There will be no payments next year. I am now 78. I dont feel the need to advocate for myself, but I do feel compelled to advocate for families of the Pueblo and for thousands of others who could sincerely benefit from future distributions from the USVSST Fund.

The attacks covered by the USVSST Fund span decades and locations. My experience in 1968 was among the first, but Americans all over the world have been targeted since, from the 1980s bombings at the U.S. Embassy and military barracks in Beirut, to al-Qaidas 1998 U.S. Embassy bombings in East Africa, and beyond. Thousands of Americans have been gravely injured or killed overseas, and many more have lost loved ones at the hands of terrorists.

We must not forget: these vile acts of state-sponsored terrorism were intended to advance an agenda of evil and tear down the values we stand for. The perpetrators were backed by governments that must be held accountable. The victims served our country faithfully and deserve support. Congress needs to continue honoring their sacrifice, make terrorists pay, and ensure victims receive support. We must act now.

Clifford Nolte, a native Iowan and a resident of Boone, was an Electronics Technician 2nd Class who served aboard the USS Pueblo and was decorated with a Prisoner of War Medal and a United States Armed Forces Medal for honorable conduct during the USS Pueblo incident.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Left-behind victims of terrorism deserve Congress attention | Opinion
House Oversight and Accountability Committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.), left, and House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (R-Mo.) at a Capitol hearing on the Hunter Biden investigation on July 19, 2023. (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press)

Americans dont want to live in a nation where big government has the power to silence free speech. These are the words of House Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith, who recently began an inquiry into tax-exempt philanthropic and advocacy organizations.

I was surprised to see this effort from a Republican-led committee, since conservatives have often opposed government scrutiny of tax-exempt organizations and transparency in campaign finance systems. My former colleagues at the House Oversight Committee, for instance, launched a major investigation into the Obama administration for targeting conservative tax-exempt organizations.

The current black-box campaign finance system is, of course, the brainchild of conservatives. The Supreme Courts 2010 Citizens United decision was the product of a conservative campaign to roll back campaign finance regulations and opened the door to untraceable spending in elections.

Since then, 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) nonprofit groups, which can spend money advocating on policy and dont have to disclose their donors, have taken on central roles in the political landscape. In fact, according to the research group OpenSecrets, organizations on the left and right that dont have to disclose their donors spent $963 million in elections in the decade after Citizens United, dwarfing the $129 million spent over the previous decade.

House Republicans claim to be concerned about this growing influence, but only when it is in support of progressive causes. For all the energy Republicans have spent decrying the weaponization of the government to attack political opponents, Rep. Smith of Missouri appears to be doing exactly that. Until now, Republicans have vigorously blocked every campaign finance reform effort over the last decade and voted unanimously to block the Democratic-led Disclose Act last year, which would have provided some transparency.

House Republicans, however, lined up behind their American Confidence in Elections Act, a laundry list of election changes that would make voting harder  and, yes, make dark money spending easier. They say dark money on the left is a problem, and yet theyre pushing legislation that would eliminate many of the few disclosure requirements that still exist.

Smith and the committee also claim that nonprofits are becoming conduits for foreign influence, citing misleading xenophobic reports from right-wing media to make their case. But Republicans have minimized and downright denied Russian interference in our elections for years despite bipartisan findings that Russia organized an aggressive campaign to influence the 2016 elections.

Republicans are also ignoring foreign-owned and foreign-influenced corporations pumping money into our elections. Look no further than Rudolph W. Giulianis business associate Lev Parnas, who was recently sentenced to 20 months in prison for using a shell company to funnel Russian oligarch money into American elections.

Theres a lot of outrage about the political activities of progressive nonprofits, but Smiths committee seems to have no desire to look into conservative nonprofits such as Turning Point USA, which helped fund the rally before the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot, or the Public Interest Legal Foundation, whose leaders were involved in disputing the results of the 2020 election.

Dozens of conservative nonprofits, including the Honest Elections Project, led by Leonard Leo, co-chair of the Federalist Society, work to restrict voting rights, with great harm inflicted on voters of color. I can think of nothing more wrong than using tax-exempt groups to spread the "Big Lie," suppress voting rights or fuel an assault on the U.S. Capitol, yet that does not seem to be a concern for House Republicans. (Leo is reportedly under investigation for allegedly misusing his web of nonprofits to enrich himself; it would be surprising if Republicans decided to examine his case.)

Theres more that the Internal Revenue Service should do to ensure that tax-exempt organizations are following the laws. But Republicans have refused to give the IRS the resources it needs to conduct proper oversight of nonprofit organizations and even voted to rescind more than $80 billion in IRS funding this year. Yet theyre eager to investigate progressive groups when the biggest abuses are coming from their own camp.

Kurt Bardella is a contributing writer to Opinion. He is a Democratic strategist and a former senior advisor for Republicans on the House Oversight Committee. @KurtBardella







If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A $24 billion infusion from the American Rescue Plan has helped child care providers pay teachers and purchase much-needed supplies, easing the burden on both families and providers during the tumult of the COVID-19 pandemic. But things are about to change as those funds  distributed by the states as grants  are set to expire in just a few short months, leading to likely layoffs, higher tuition, and provider closures as we head into 2024.

How bad could the problem get? A new Century Foundation report finds that care for nearly 3 million children could soon be disrupted. Thats one-third of all children currently in the American child care system. As that stark reality has left state leaders scrambling for answers, one potential solution could be found in enhancing the capacity and efficiency at key state agencies.

Child care is an important economic driver, as access to high-quality, affordable early learning and child care is key to better educational, social, and economic outcomes for children  and to greater flexibility for parents aiming to participate in the workforce. Affordability, though, remains the critical missing link; according to a new report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation, the average annual cost of child care is over $10,000 per year, and more than one in ten families with children have had caretakers step away from jobs to care for children as a result.

No paywall. No pop-up ads. Keep The 74 free with a donation during our Fall campaign.

Congresss legislative attempts to address the child care crisis were short-term efforts that failed to take into consideration two significant issues: the fractured infrastructure of state agencies and their inability to effectively administer additional funding to implement meaningful change across the system.

During the pandemic, state officials were allocated five to six times their original operating budget and then asked to distribute that money very quickly, all during an unprecedented global crisis. Prior to the pandemic, from 2018 to 2019, states were only given an average child care budget of $3.2 billion from the Child Care and Development Fund. Nowhere near enough to prop up a fragile child care system with an underpaid workforce and lack of high-quality programs. But suddenly amid the pandemic, that amount increased exponentially to $8.2 billion dollars, and states were given a two-year timeline to spend that money  or risk losing it.

Related

Without Affordable Child Care, Graduating from College Can Be Nearly Impossible

Those able to use the funds in a timely manner allocated much of it to expand eligibility for subsidies and increase the amount of money families received. However, now that these pandemic-era subsidies are gone, many families no longer qualify for child care assistance, or will receive reduced amounts. If state agencies were given the time to improve capacity and infrastructure, the increased funding could have been managed more efficiently and invested in long-term solutions.

States are the critical intermediary in the child care process  reaching both parents and providers. They license facilities and workers, administer funding and subsidies, and receive federal government funding that in turn trickles to parents, child care providers, local governments, and beyond. But the process, at best, is fractured. Moving forward, the child care system needs to be modernized to make it more parent centric and provider-friendly, which can be achieved by first increasing capacity and support for state agencies.

This translates to two possible paths for states: they can either find the funds to hire more state workers or find ways to increase efficiency with current personnel.

In many state agencies, there is more work than the agency has time and resources to complete. Thats what I mean when I point to a lack of capacity  and it can slow down, or bring to a standstill, licensing or zoning approvals for potential child care providers or workers. In Nevada, for instance, there is a backlog of nearly 10,000 background check applications. If agencies gain capacity (better systems, streamlined processes, more staff), they could more efficiently process child care providers licensing paperwork, giving parents more available options.

To simplify and modernize the child care system, states should also look to other successful service delivery programs  like health insurance enrollment platforms. Under the Affordable Care Act, many states have created their own custom state-based health insurance exchanges, providing residents with easy-to-shop-for insurance, while also effectively servicing health insurers. Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions have empowered this process, enabling consumers to search for and enroll in health plans, and to apply for subsidies, while creating efficiencies for agency personnel.

By embracing technology, those same benefits could extend to other agencies, leading to more efficient and effective delivery of not only child care programs, but also Medicaid, SNAP, and TANF.

Looking at the bigger picture, states need to assess their social infrastructure, evaluate what it should look like in the future, and consider what services can be used to increase capacity long-term. This planning is crucial given that the Child Care Stabilization Subgrant Program will expire in months and expanded Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) funding will also need to be reauthorized by Congress in the near future.

The tenuous nature of this funding could lead to more providers shutting their doors, and states being even further behind in solving the problem. Or states could reorient their priorities and processes towards creating a system that moves centers and providers more easily through the licensing process, helps them reopen their doors and provides parents with easier means of finding and affording care.

Its no small task  but its a first step towards confronting a looming crisis.
Editors Note: Nicole Hemmer is an associate professor of history and director of the Carolyn T. and Robert M. Rogers Center for the Study of the Presidency at Vanderbilt University. She is the author of Partisans: The Conservative Revolutionaries Who Remade American Politics in the 1990s and cohosts the podcasts Past Present and This Day in Esoteric Political History. The views expressed in this commentary are her own. View more opinion on CNN.

For much of the past two decades, journalists, politicians and investors have lauded Elon Musk for his creations: PayPals seamless financial transactions, Teslas stylish electronic cars, SpaceXs space-related strides. And while his creations deserved an asterisk  his businesses emerged through absorption of other peoples technologies, ideas and start-ups  Musk entered the mid-2010s as a bright-eyed innovator pushing for new green technologies and for new extraterrestrial frontiers.

Courtesy Nicole Hemmer

His reputation glowed: all that innovation, all that wealth, was going toward The Good. No wonder he became the model for Robert Downey, Jr.s superhero character Tony Stark. In a world of super-wealthy supervillains, Musk chose a different path.

Then in 2022, Musk bought Twitter, and the other part of Musk, the one referred to by his former partner Grimes as demon mode, took center stage. Whatever his previous reputation, he now emerged as a force of destruction, stripping the social media site of its value, its reputation and then, ultimately, its name. In recent weeks, he has been using the rebranded X platform to attack the Anti-Defamation League, an organization that fights antisemitism and extremism. Musk has repeatedly been criticized for enabling and boosting antisemitic content on the platform.

In his new biography of the worlds richest man, Elon Musk, Walter Isaacson tries to square these two Musks. He rummages through Musks violent and chaotic childhood in South Africa (though, as Jill Lepore notes in The New Yorker, he focuses solely on the Musk familys chaos: There are no other people, and there are certainly no Black people.). He dissects Musks many combative, combustible romantic relationships and the many children they produced, often in secret. He charts the ruptured business partnerships and dismissed employees and impossible deadlines that seemed tailor-made to increase human suffering. And Isaacson decides that this is the cost of innovation.

It is an old story, the backbone of American lore: the driven inventor, dismissive of human frailties like emotion, personal commitments and the need for sleep, whose seemingly superhuman drive is not a kind of villainy but rather vital to keep humanity driving forward. Isaacson, a biographer who has written about such innovators and geniuses as Albert Einstein, Benjamin Franklin, Leonardo da Vinci and Steve Jobs, sees in Musk an affirmation of that story. Musks demon mode may be unpleasant, but it is the price of genius.

As Isaacson writes in the closing sentences of his 600-page tome, Sometimes great innovators are risk-seeking man-children who resist potty training. They can be reckless, cringeworthy, sometimes even toxic. They can also be crazy. Crazy enough to think they can change the world. Crazy, cruel, immature: these arent failings; theyre features of creative genius.

That is Isaacsons thesis, anyway. But it relies on a narrow understanding of genius. Genius for Isaacson can be measured in patents and profits. Musk runs several companies and is the richest man in the world. His genius is a given. All the rest, no matter how harmful, must be understood as an essential ingredient of that genius.

Thats quite an impoverished view of genius, one that perpetuates the great man theory of history, in which the course of the world is shaped by a few brilliant men who thrive under the systems of their time. It overshadows genius generated through collaboration, which, though present throughout Musks career, takes a backseat to the force of his singular personality throughout Isaacsons book. And it leaves little room for the transformative power of people such as racial justice and LGBTQ movement leaders who divined a new way of being in the world, which requires a sort of emotional and moral understanding absent from Musks career.

Musks apparent cruelty is at least in part an offshoot of the fact that his companies seem to be more real, more alive, to him than human beings. In Isaacsons telling, when Musk is anxious that a company might collapse, he doesnt warn that it might fail, he warns that it might die. (We either do this or we die, he tells Tesla executives concerned about the potential misuse of customer deposits; I believed if we couldnt do it in three, we deserved to die, he tells Isaacson about his first three failed rocket launches for SpaceX.)

Yet when Tesla drivers using the cars autopilot mode are killed when the technology fails, Musk appears more annoyed by the bad press than the dead customers. As Isaacson describes it, Musk held a conference call with reporters in October 2016, and he got angry when the first questions were about the two deaths. If they wrote stories that dissuaded people from using autonomous driving systems, or regulators from approving them, then you are killing people. He paused and then barked, Next question.

As that incident suggests, having the skill to develop technologies is not the same as having the judgment to use them. This became clear in Musks deployment of the Starlink satellites. Musk owned the satellite communications network that Ukrainians relied on in their efforts to battle back a Russian invasion. Musk, believing he knew best how to prevent escalation, denied Ukrainians access to the network after discussions with senior Russian officials. Though he seems stunned by his involvement in the conflict  How am I in this war? he asks Isaacson  he involved himself, relying on his own judgment about how the war should be conducted (judgment that does not, to put it mildly, seem up to the task).

After the publication of excerpts from the book, Musk posted his own version of these events to X. Isaacson has since clarified in subsequent posts that Musk did not enable it [Starlink], because he thought, probably correctly, that would cause a major war and that he believed mistakenly after talking to Musk the version of events portrayed in the book. Musk responded, thanking Isaacson for the correction and elaborating that the onus is meaningfully different if I refused to act upon a request from Ukraine vs. made a deliberate change to Starlink to thwart Ukraine.

The book also problematically portrays Musks lack of empathy as a function of undiagnosed and untreated mental illness and neurodivergence. Isaacson makes clear in the text that Musk and his colleagues believe he has Aspergers, obsessive-compulsive disorder and bipolar disorder. This, too, fits into an unexamined trope of the brilliant genius: that to seek medical and psychological support would blunt the brilliant mind and stymie innovation. Isaacson and Musk both buy into this  Isaacson concludes that crazy is what makes Musk innovate to try to change the world  apparently preferring the romantic and mystifying concept of demon mode to describe what could be better explained as a lack of treatment and restraint.

There were clearly better ways to approach a Musk biography than Isaacsons fog-machine of demon mode and distant genius and man-child superhero. Musk is a product not only of apartheid South Africa but also of Silicon Valley, which has produced more than its share of innovators like Musk, who feel unconstrained by laws and regulations, who sell utopian visions that devolve into corporate money-machines with miserable employees and questionable contributions to society. Even Musks recent turn  minimizing the pandemic, ranting about the woke mind virus, promoting far-right conspiracies  keeps him in line with techno-compatriots like Peter Thiel.

A richer analysis of Musk would help make sense not only of his chaotic career but the culture and politics that made it possible. But that would require shattering myths, not perpetuating them. And that is a task neither Elon Musk the person nor Elon Musk the biography is interested in.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
American law enforcement agencies are struggling to hire workers, especially women.

Throughout the U.S., women make up only 12% of sworn officers and 3% of police leadership.

The Orlando Police Department is trying to change that through a new program.

READ: Brightline announces start of service connecting Orlando to South Florida

The 30x30 Initiative includes two phases -- collecting data and using that information to hire, promote and retain female officers.

The goal is to make police recruit classes 30% female by 2030.

OPD said that currently, women represent more than 15% of all sworn personnel and 19% are in leadership roles.

The department is encouraging even more women to break stereotypes, believing that they can make a difference when they put on a badge.

Orange County Sheriffs Office, Osceola County Sheriffs Office, and New Smyrna Beach Police Department are also part of the program.

READ: Hurricane Lee brings dangerous surf to Floridas coast, tropical storm conditions to Bermuda

Orlando Police Department will host a recruitment event for women on Sept. 26th. To learn more about it, click here.

Channel 9s Sam Martello learned how the 30x30 program is already making a difference in Central Florida.

Watch her report below.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
UPDATE: Overland Park city officials say they were starting termination procedures against Frank Donchez when he decided to resign. Read the latest news.

Frank Donchezs ability to effectively lead one of the largest police forces in Kansas was called into question just a few years into his time as chief of the Overland Park Police Department.

Four years after moving to Kansas, one of Donchezs officers shot and killed John Albers, 17, who was experiencing a mental health crisis. The police shooting was highly publicized and criticized, causing some in the community to lose faith in the chief.

Some even called for him to resign, which he eventually did on Tuesday after a terse conversation with the teens mother, Sheila Albers, who has been an activist since her sons death. Her own investigations have shed light on how the department handled the shooting.

Top city officials have not responded to questions about whether Donchezs resignation was connected to that incident.

Donchez told The Washington Post on Wednesday evening that he was not forced to resign and that he left because of family matters, rather than because of Albers.

Absolutely. I resigned, Ive got a lot of things going on back home in Pennsylvania and that is drawing me back home, to be with family, he told The Post. My conversation [with Albers] was my conversation. Obviously we havent seen eye to eye for five-and-a-half years. I guess I didnt expect that was going to change anytime ever.

But questions continue to surround Donchezs abrupt departure. Some who know him spoke highly of a leader who cared deeply for his community and his faith. Others say he failed to regain the trust of the community he served.

We believe in honest and transparent government; that starts with leadership. The resignation of Chief Donchez gives the city of Overland Park a new opportunity to ensure those values are present in the person they select for this essential role, Lora McDonald, with MORE2, a local civil rights organization, said in a statement Wednesday.

Overland Park Police Chief Frank Donchez resigned Tuesday from his post, according to the city. No reason was provided for his resignation.

Donchez had a challenging tenure for reasons other than the handling of the Albers shooting.

In 2019, Donchez faced criticism after defending an officer who handcuffed and arrested a Shawnee Mission eighth-grader who formed her fingers into a pretend gun and aimed at her classmates.

Ill take the heat all day long for arresting a 13-year-old, Donchez told The Star in October 2019. Im not willing to take the heat for not preventing a school tragedy.

In 2020, The American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas accused the Overland Park Police Department for an overly reactive and militarized response to a Black Lives Matter protest.

In February 2021, two police officers filed a lawsuit alleging Donchez discriminated and denied promotions on the basis of age, gender and race. The suit was dismissed, but during the course of litigation, they were awarded promotions.

More than a year ago, four Overland Park police officers were placed on paid administrative leave; their status remained unchanged Wednesday. The Johnson County District Attorneys Office has said it is investigating criminal allegations involving a police nonprofit where three of the officers served as directors.

Donchez has so far declined an interview with The Star.

Sheila Albers continues to seek justice for her son, John Albers, 17, who was was shot and killed by Overland Park police officer Clayton Jenison during a welfare check at the familys home in Overland Park in 2018. Albers seeks an investigation of Police Chief Frank Donchez. A friend of Albers created the portrait of John from a photo taken at a family wedding.

His resignation comes about a year after Lori Curtis Luther took over as city manager. Bill Ebel retired in spring 2022 after 11 years in the citys top role, during which Donchez was hired.

Luther and Mayor Curt Skoog have not responded to requests for comment.

McDonald, with MORE2, said she hopes that they will include community engagement as a critical element of the search process for a new Overland Park Chief of Police.

A pastors view of Frank Donchez

Pastor Darwin Neal in his many years working at a moving company, rarely had a paying customer stop to chat.

But Donchez did.

The two met in 2014, as Neal helped unload a moving truck in front of Donchezs new home in Overland Park when he took over as police chief.

Neal said Donchezs love for people was immediately obvious. But what they quickly bonded over was their faith in Jesus. Neal, in addition to being a pastor at Anointed House of Glory Church in Martin City, is also a chaplain for the Grandview Police Department.

Reached by phone Thursday, Neal had nothing but glowing reviews of Donchez, who he said is more like a brother to him than a friend.

Soon after they met, Donchez invited Neal to join him in pastoring to prisoners at Lansing Correctional Facility south of Leavenworth.

They made the trip north about once a month until the pandemic hit, Neal said.

He shared hope for a better life, even where they are, and a better life when they get out, and a new direction, Neal said. Theres no better man that I could ever think of to have the responsibility of law enforcement than that man.

He also invited Donchez to speak at his church a few times, as well as at Trinity Temple Church of God in Christ in Grandview, one of the largest Black churches in the metro.

One evening in 2016, while at Trinity, Donchez spoke about the need for more minority police officers in the metro area, saying it could help bring communities and police closer together, Channel 41 reported at the time.

Hes infectious in the way that he deals with minorities, said Neal, who is Black.

Neal texted Donchez on Tuesday evening, when he saw the news, to say he was praying for him. They spoke over the phone Thursday, and Neal said its his impression Donchez stepped down as the result of the conversation with Albers.

Being a leader means, if someone else makes a mistake, their mistake is your responsibility, Neal said. I believe thats why he quit. He felt a personal responsibility for the actions of one of his officers.

He added that if someone asked Donchez to go a mile for them, hed go two.

Overland Park has lost a servant to the community, Neal said.

Career in law enforcement

Donchez began his law enforcement career in 1981 in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, working his way up the ranks to police chief. He then spent several years as police chief in Davenport, Iowa.

Craig Malin, a former Davenport city administrator who was Donchezs supervisor, said the former police chief improved the department throughout his tenure and decreased crime in the city by about a third.

During the interview process, Malin said he and a few other Davenport officials traveled to Bethlehem to meet with Donchezs references in person. At the time, Donchez was working as a lawyer in private practice after several years as a police commissioner.

Donchez introduced Malin to his past co-workers at the Bethlehem Police Department, and they greeted him with hugs like he was a long lost brother. No one had a bad word to say about Donchez, Malin said.

His hiring in Davenport was controversial at first among some officers, who thought someone from within the department deserved the position. But Malin said Donchez quickly won the department over.

He was a very straightforward gentleman, Malin said. He was supportive of employee development. He had high expectations for their performance, but he was empathetic and caring and people understood that he was there for the broad public mission of law enforcement.

Donchez always looked for new ways to learn and improve. After starting his career in Bethlehem law enforcement, he earned his law degree and practiced for a few years. Later, he also got his pilots license and once flew with Malins son to help him earn a Boy Scout aviation merit badge.

I literally trusted the life of my son to him, Malin said.

An abrupt resignation

On Wednesday afternoon, the city issued a new statement, saying Donchez submitted his resignation to Luther, the city manager, on Tuesday. Meg Ralph, an Overland Park spokeswoman, provided no reason for his departure, saying the city does not comment on personnel information.

The citys statement Wednesday also described an encounter Monday between Donchez and Albers, the mother of the teen killed by police in 2018.

After Mondays city council meeting, Albers and Donchez had a heated exchange, according to Wednesdays email from the city.

John Albers, 17, was shot and killed by Overland Park police officer Clayton Jenison during a welfare check at the familys home in Overland Park in 2018. His mother Sheila Albers seeks an investigation of Police Chief Frank Donchez.

On Jan. 20, 2018, Overland Park police were called to a welfare check at the Albers home. As the teenager was backing the family minivan out of the driveway, officer Clayton Jenison fired 13 shots at him, striking him six times. Jenison said he feared for his life and opened fire after the teen ignored commands to stop.

The shooting resulted in a $2.3 million wrongful death settlement.

After the shooting, Sheila Albers and her husband organized an advocacy group  JOCO United  with goals of improving how police respond to people in mental distress and of increasing government transparency.

Albers became a vocal advocate for police reform, critiquing police use of force even before the high-profile deaths of George Floyd in Minneapolis and Breonna Taylor in Louisville, Kentucky.

Albers raised questions about the team that responded to her son and about a $70,000 severance paid out to Jenison.

Jenison was allowed to resign under ordinary circumstances, according to a form submitted to the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training, which licenses police officers in the state.

Late Monday night, Albers sent an email to Luther and Skoog recounting her conversation hours earlier with Donchez. She asked him about an interview he did shortly after the shooting, saying Jenison had left the department before he could be reprimanded or encouraged to leave. According to CPOST records, Jenison left on March 4, 2018, about six weeks after he shot John Albers.

I pushed Donchez hard on the lies he told in that interview and his response was asking me if I have ever lied before. I told him I have not lied in a professional setting like that, she wrote. He then said, I am sure you and Steve tell everyone you were the best parents.

She replied, John struggled with his mental health.

According to her email, Donchez replied, And you left him at his time of need.

Email from Sheila Albers to Overland Park's city manager and mayor by The Kansas City Star on Scribd

This embedded content is not available in your region.

In her email, she claimed Donchez told her that he will keep being the Chief until he retires and I can keep hoping he is not.

She ended the email by saying she said what needed to be said and did not need the city to do anything.

The city appointed Deputy Chief Simon Happer to serve as interim police chief until officials can conduct a national search to hire a new police chief.

The Stars Katie Moore contributed reporting.
FILE PHOTO: Former Pakistani PM Imran Khan speaks with Reuters during an intervew, in Lahore

By Asif Shahzad

ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - Pakistan's election commission has questioned the neutrality of the country's caretaker government tasked with holding national elections, saying it appears to be aligned with the opponents of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan .

The caretaker government, which took over last month on the five year expiry of parliament, is meant to ensure impartiality in the run up to the election, but Khan's continued incarceration and ban from contesting elections has raised concerns.

"It is a general perception that the caretaker government is a continuation of the previous government," says a letter seen by Reuters written by the Election Commission to the office of caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar.

Kakar, whose party was an ally in the outgoing anti-Khan coalition government, took over from Shehbaz Sharif who comes from Khan's biggest rival party, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), which with the alliance of nearly a dozen parties removed Khan from power.

The letter, dated Wednesday, is a rare official rebuke of the government. Election results are rarely accepted across the board in Pakistan and perceptions of bias could cast a further shadow over the credibility of the process.

An almost certain delay in the national election, which is due in November, has stoked more political uncertainty amid the worst economic crisis in the nation of 241 million.

No date has so far been given for the voting, and analysts fear that the caretaker government led by Kakar, who comes from a pro-military political party, could remain in power for a longer period.

Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi dispelled the suggestion of bias.

"We have no favourite horses in this race," he told Reuters in a message on Thursday, saying his government will assist the commission in providing a level-playing field to all parties.

Asked about the commission's suggestions he said, the "Prime Minister and myself have not uttered a word against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and Imran Khan after assuming our new role."

Election Commission spokesman Haroon Khan did not respond.

The letter came within hours of Kakar inducting in his cabinet a longtime loyalist of former three-time Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif , Khan's main opponent. It said that "due care" should be exercised to avoid people of "known political allegiance" being added to the government.

The cabinet also has other loyalists to Sharif's party and its allies, as well as vocal critics of Khan, some of whom say they were victimised during his rule from 2018 to 2022.

Khan, ousted in April 2022 in a parliament vote of confidence, blames the military for his removal after he fell out with the generals, who mostly decide who will rule.

(Reporting by Asif Shahzad; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)
You are here: Business

Staff members of the State Grid Baoding Electric Power Supply Company inspect equipment in Baoding, north China's Hebei Province, July 6, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

China's electricity consumption, a key barometer of economic activity, continued stable expansion in August, official data said Thursday.



The power use climbed 3.9 percent from a year ago to 886.1 billion kilowatt-hours last month, driven by robust industrial power demand, according to the National Energy Administration.

Power consumed by primary industries went up 8.6 percent year on year, and power used by secondary and tertiary sectors gained 7.6 percent and 6.6 percent, respectively. However, residential power use registered a 9.9 percent decline.

In the first eight months combined, the country's electricity consumption rose 5 percent from a year earlier to 6.08 trillion kilowatt-hours.
By Nidal al-Mughrabi

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (Reuters) - The devastating floods in Libya have brought new tragedy to a family of Palestinians which settled in the country after fleeing Gaza during the 1967 Arab-Israeli war.

Two members of the Abu Amra family - a father and son - died and 12 other relatives are missing after a storm burst dams, swept away buildings and destroyed as much as a quarter of the city of Derna in eastern Libya.

"We lived in worry for two days, until we could confirm some had died and others survived," said Fayez Abu Amra at a mourning tent set up in Deir Al-Balah town in the southern Gaza Strip.

Neighbours and friends flocked to the tent to pay their respects to the family on Wednesday, while verses from the Muslims' holy Koran echoed throughout the street.

Fayez Abu Amra, a 54-year-old teacher of Islamic studies at Gaza's Al-Aqsa University, is among family members who survived four wars with Israel only for some of those who moved to Libya in search of a better life to perish in a natural disaster.

"It is a very big shock for us. Twelve people of the Abu Amra family are missing and we want officials to assure us whether they are dead or alive," he told Reuters.

The tragedy is compounded by difficulties in bringing the bodies back home to the Palestinian enclave for proper burial.

The Abu Amra family are descendents of Palestinians who fled or were forced to flee their homes in the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation and ended up in Gaza as refugees. Some older relatives then quit Gaza during the 1967 Arab-Israeli war, becoming refugees for a second time in Libya.

"Two catastrophes took place, the catastrophe of the displacement (in 1948) and the storm in Libya," said Fayez Abu Amra.

Derna was wrecked when storm waters overwhelmed two dams sending a torrent through the city center early on Monday and sweeping whole districts into the sea.

Death tolls given by Libyan officials have varied, though all are in the thousands. The number of missing has been estimated at 10,000.

About 50,000 Palestinians live in Libya and at least one-third of them live in the most devastated eastern parts, said Ahmed Al-Deek of the Palestinian Foreign Ministry.

Deek said 23 Palestinians have died in Libya since the flooding and efforts were underway to locate dozens of others who remained missing.

Deek said a Palestinian rapid response team arrived in Libya on Thursday and will support Libyan and international teams in rescue operations and provide aid and assistance.

(Reporting by Nidal Almughrabi; Editing by Angus MacSwan)
PANAMA CITY  More upgrades are on the horizon for one of the oldest neighborhoods in the Panama City area.

Panama City commissioners on Tuesday voted to award Marshal Brothers Construction and Engineering, a construction company located in Springfield, with an approximately $12.949 million contract to oversee infrastructure improvements in the Cove area.

According to Commissioner Josh Street, it will mark the last phase of improvements to outdated infrastructure in the Cove before similar work can begin in other struggling areas throughout the city. This includes St. Andrews, Millville and Venetian Villa.

Panama City awarded Marshal Brothers Construction & Engineering with an approximately $13 million contract to oversee infrastructure improvements in this area of the Cove.

"This represents the last phase of really fixing that problem in (the Cove)," Street said. "Once this is done, we'll be able to turn our attention to the next area, and we'll be able to move forward until we've resolved all the issues that we have in our infrastructure."

According to the city, the area in the Cove slated for renovations is south of Adams Street, east of Bunkers Cove Road and west of Bonita Avenue. The project will replace and rehabilitate water and wastewater lines, pavement, curbs, sidewalks and lift stations.

It will be funded by state revolving funds. Commissioners during the Tuesday meeting also approved up to a 5% contingency for the project, meaning Marshal Brothers Construction and Engineering might be paid up to about $13.597 million.

Upcoming project: PC commissioners consider eight new alternatives for Marina Civic Center

The Springfield company was one of five to submit bids for the project. The others were:

Extreme Excavation, which submitted a $13.105 million proposal.

Royal American Construction, which submitted an approximately $14.069 million proposal.

Gulf Coast Utility Contractors, which submitted an approximately $15.757 million proposal.

Mainline Construction, which submitted an approximately $16.861 million proposal.

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Panama City selects contractor for $12.949 million Cove area upgrades
After every Tennessee abortion clinic shuttered last year, Republican Gov. Bill Lee told state lawmakers they had a "moral obligation" to increase funding for a different service: crisis pregnancy centers.

"It's time to equip them with the resources they need to play a bigger role," Lee said in February, referring to the largely unregulated and often faith-based organizations that aim to deter women from getting abortions.

Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post.

At Lee's urging, Tennessee lawmakers in April approved $20 million in new annual funding for the centers - echoing a trend of Republican-controlled states seeking to boost funding or add new revenue to the centers in the year since the Supreme Court struck down Roe v. Wade.

This year, GOP-majority legislatures in 12 states passed 25 bills providing at least $250 million in new taxpayer funds or tax credits for crisis pregnancy centers, according to data collected by the Guttmacher Institute and Equity Forward, organizations that support abortion rights. That contrasts with seven similar bills passed in seven states totaling at least $115 million in 2021, before the Supreme Court's decision.

The number of states providing direct taxpayer funding to the centers has increased since 2021 from five states to nine states, according to the Guttmacher Institute. Four states also offer tax credits to the centers after two GOP legislatures passed bills this year, with Mississippi offering up to $10 million in tax breaks for donors.

For more than five decades, crisis pregnancy centers have offered services including pregnancy tests and, more recently, ultrasounds, typically coupled with antiabortion messaging. To supporters, the centers fill health-care gaps for women who weren't expecting to get pregnant while offering an alternative path to abortion. But abortion rights advocates and mainstream medical groups see them as deceptive and accuse them of misleading women into thinking they offer abortion services to get them in the door.

The centers now outnumber abortion clinics nationally by a 3-to-1 margin, according to the University of Georgia's Crisis Pregnancy Center Map, and have flourished in states where there are no longer any abortion clinics, such as Tennessee, which has 60, and Texas, which has 198 centers.

"We have seen that the states that have worked the hardest to either totally ban or severely restrict abortion have also worked to fund crisis pregnancy centers in new ways," said Andrea Swartzendruber, who helps lead the Georgia project, which supports abortion rights and identifies the location of more than 2,500 crisis pregnancy centers nationwide.

Tonya Baker Nelson, founder and chief executive officer of Hand of Hope Pregnancy Centers in North Carolina - where state funding increased from $3 million to $6 million this year - said her centers use state funds to offer women child-care grants or to buy products like car seats.

"It allows us to address some real, tangible needs," Baker Nelson said. "I think it's a wise move for states to support organizations that women turn to for support if they chose life."

But the increase in state funding has alarmed abortion rights supporters, who accuse the centers of misleading pregnant women and point to warnings by medical groups including the American Medical Association, which has called for a halt to public funding and has asked the organizations to "truthfully describe the services they offer."

In Democratic states this past year, lawmakers and governors have cut funding to the centers and have passed laws creating civil penalties for misleading women in an effort to stop them from seeking an abortion.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) last month said he would not renew a $7.2 million contract with a nonprofit organization that distributes funding to the centers, and Minnesota's state legislature and Gov. Tim Walz (D) ended a similar $3.3 million annual grant in June. This year, Vermont, Illinois and Colorado also passed laws giving state attorneys general the power to investigate complaints and levy fines against centers that use deceptive or fraudulent practices.

"We are not trying to close them down," said Illinois state Rep. Terra Costa Howard (D), a lead sponsor of the bill in her state. "We are just trying to get them to stop deceiving women who are already in a scary situation."

Democrat-led efforts to tighten regulations on the centers face significant hurdles. The new laws seeking to rein in what critics call deceptive practices are being challenged in court on First Amendment grounds by antiabortion rights groups.

Thus far, judges have not found widespread fraud or abuse at the centers. In a 2017 ruling, a federal judge struck down a law in Baltimore, writing that "after seven years of litigation and a 1,295-page record before us, the City does not identify a single example of a woman who entered the Greater Baltimore Center's waiting room under the misimpression that she could obtain an abortion there."

And in a pending lawsuit challenging the Illinois law, a federal judge shot down a request last month for the law to go into effect while the court case plays out, saying the evidence of harm the centers are causing was "thread bare."

The rising partisan battle over crisis pregnancy centers has shone a new light on their increasingly prominent role in the antiabortion movement. Although many started out as grass-roots organizations in the 1970s, the centers are now mostly steered by a network of national antiabortion groups, including Heartbeat International, Care Net, and National Institute of Family and Life Advocates, according to industry officials and academic experts who have researched the centers.

"Their practices generally flew under the radar for a very long time and Dobbs flipped the switch," said Tara Murtha, a spokesperson and policy analyst with the Women's Law Project, referring to the Supreme Court decision that ended constitutional protections for abortion. "Suddenly, many people were able to see the role that CPCs are playing as a key arm of the antiabortion movement."

- - -

Republicans boost support

Although the first crisis pregnancy centers opened in the late 1960s, states did not get involved with funding them for several decades.

In 1996, Republicans in Pennsylvania created the nation's first state grant program. The state funds helped the centers flourish there. For every abortion clinic in the state, there are nine crisis pregnancy centers - triple the national average.

A handful of states followed Pennsylvania's lead, but GOP legislatures have significantly increased funding in recent years. In Texas, the state legislature in 2021 voted to bump up its $5 million in annual support to $50 million in each of the next two years.

That trend has accelerated since the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe in June 2022. By that year's end, 10 states had passed bills allocating $18.2 million in new funds to the centers.

That support jumped this year in states like Florida, where Republicans increased an annual grant to centers from $4.45 million to $25 million.

"States are recognizing that the centers are providing a service so the government doesn't have to carry the weight of that," said Jor-El Godsey, president of Heartbeat International, adding that in this post-Roe era, the funds will allow centers to help pregnant people "overcome obstacles that are now present because they no longer have abortion as an option . . . so they can take on the role of giving birth, perhaps placing for adoption or choosing to parent."

Despite the influx of state money, most funding to the centers comes from private donations, researchers say. The Charlotte Lozier Institute, a research arm of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, said in a 2020 report that "at least 90 percent of total funding for centers is raised through private donations."

As Republican support for the centers has grown, medical groups have intensified their warnings about the practices in the centers and the role of state money in their operations. Because crisis pregnancy centers are not health clinics, they don't answer to state health regulators and do not have to comply with the federal patient privacy law known as HIPAA.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has issued warnings about the "dangers" of the centers, including spreading false claims that abortion increases the risk of cancer, suicide and infertility. The organization also said staff at centers often use "misinformation and manipulation to delay people in finding abortion care until their pregnancies have progressed past the legal limit for abortion."

The group has also criticized centers for promoting an "abortion pill reversal" procedure, which it says is "unproven," "unethical" and "dangerous." Most medication abortions involve a two-step process. The centers encouraged pregnant people to not take the second pill - misoprostol - and instead take doses of progesterone, a hormone typically used to promote the growth of a fetus.

Centers defend the procedure, saying it is safe and effective 60 percent of the time if pregnant women act quickly enough. "I have literally met children whose mothers did the abortion pill reversal process," said Baker Nelson. "We promote it because in our experience, it works."

Critics of the centers cite a variety of concerns over how the state money is used, including a "pay by service" funding mechanism, which grants state money based on how much time is spent with clients and to reimburse the cost of whatever products were provided.

"It's incredibly inefficient. It would be less expensive to just give them the pack of diapers," said Murtha.

Timothy Head, executive director of Faith & Freedom Coalition, which lobbies for state funds for the centers, said clients are not required to sit through religious classes or programs in centers his group works with. However, he said the "admissions process" does includes information on the gestational stages of pregnancy and on the abortion process.

"It's part of the intake process. It's not like they say, 'God says abortions are a sin,'" Head said.

- - -

Blue states push back

As crisis pregnancy centers have expanded across the United States, Democrats have long sought to limit their influence, citing the allegations of deceptive marketing and concerns about the quality of care women receive. But such efforts often run into court challenges.

Democratic-led cities and states have sought for years to investigate crisis pregnancy centers for allegedly deceptive practices. This year, state legislatures in Vermont, Illinois and Colorado passed laws giving the state attorneys general or other state officials the authority to investigate and levy fines.

"These centers have been on my radar for the better part of my life and we've attempted other things over the years," said Illinois state Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D), a co-sponsor of the bill and chairperson of an abortion rights working group within the state legislature. "This time around, we decided to look at it from a consumer fraud approach"

Democrats in Congress have also attempted to rein in what they say are deceptive marketing practices at the centers, with the latest coming last year from Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), who introduced a bill directing the Federal Trade Commission to prohibit deceptive or misleading advertising from crisis pregnancy centers. If passed, it would direct the commission to create rules for centers and fines they could face.

"CPCs often lure women seeking legitimate reproductive care - including abortions - into their facilities by advertising themselves as comprehensive reproductive health-care providers," Warren said on the Senate floor as she introduced the bill. "But this is flatly untrue."

Some Democratic governors have also pulled funding for the centers.

Shapiro cited the quality of care people were receiving at the centers in his decision to stop taxpayer funding to them and referenced a 2017 state audit that showed the nonprofit was using about 3 percent of the funds for projects outside Pennsylvania.

"For decades, taxpayer dollars have gone to fund Real Alternatives," Shapiro said in an Aug. 9 statement. "My administration will not continue that pattern - we will ensure women in this commonwealth receive the reproductive health care they deserve."

Real Alternatives did not respond to The Washington Post's requests for comment.

Legal battles are pending against many of the Democratic legislative efforts. Lawsuits have been filed in federal district courts challenging the Vermont, Illinois and Colorado bills, arguing they violate the First Amendment. A similar bill that passed in Connecticut in 2021 was challenged in court by an antiabortion group, but the lawsuit was ultimately dropped.

"We make several arguments in the case, but a big one is it violates our free speech rights," said Peter Breen, the lead attorney in the lawsuit that challenges the Illinois law. "We also included a free exercise claim under the religious freedom protections in the First Amendment. The law is not religiously neutral because it targets religiously motivated speech."

But legislators who have proposed the laws say the centers will not be barred from expressing their views on abortion and that no action will be taken against them if they market and present their mission and services accurately to clients before and after they head through their doors.

"As I repeatedly said during the debate, during the [legislative] hearings, if you don't lie, you have nothing to worry about," said Howard, the bill's sponsor.

Related Content

Extreme heat brings hidden risk for people with mental health issue

At Telluride, screening a film about Jimmy Buffett, without him
A passenger on the stuck Greenland luxury cruise ship said her biggest fear was running out of alcohol on board.

Luckily, the ship, which ran aground on Monday, was finally freed Thursday morning.

Denmark's military Joint Arctic Command said the ship was finally pulled free by a fishing research vessel on Thursday.

A passenger on board the stuck luxury cruise ship in Greenland told CNN that her biggest fear while stranded for days was that they would run out of alcohol on board.

"That is the biggest concern I have," the passenger, named only as Lis, told CNN affiliate Nine News.

She added that she took swimming lessons before boarding the cruise and could swim back to Iceland if need be.

Luckily, the ship was freed Thursday morning, according to CNN.

The Ocean Explorer, a luxury cruise ship carrying 206 passengers and crew, ran aground earlier this week in Alpefjord.

Denmark's military Joint Arctic Command said the ship was finally pulled free by a fishing research vessel on Thursday.

Many feared the cruise ship could have been stuck for days after several failed attempts to refloat while waiting for a large Danish naval ship to come help, according to CNN.

Read the original article on Insider
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  The fallout continued for a third day on Wednesday after a major cyberattack compromised MGM Resorts properties in Southern Nevada.

At this point, what are we paying for? Brett, who said he was staying at MGM Grand, told 8 News Now.

Frustrations continued on the Las Vegas Strip after the cyber security breach compromised 10 hotel-casinos.

A lot of the things in there arent working, another guest said. The slot machines.

Mondays hack has led to issues with check-in, room access, and gambling, while some said theyve been without hot water or phone access in their rooms.

Others told 8 News Now theyve heard fire alarms go off in the middle of the night.

I went down 20 flights of stairs, an unnamed guest recalled.

E.J., who didnt want to share his last name, told 8 News Now he works at Aria Resort & Casino.

Hacking has been around, E.J. said. Its nothing new, its just new to our system.

He said employees are doing everything they can to make things easier, but its mostly out of their control.

Letters were provided to guests at Bellagio to list major changes, while Governor Joe Lombardo and the Nevada Gaming Control Board issued the following statement:

Governor Lombardo and the Nevada Gaming Control Board are monitoring the cybersecurity incident with MGM Resorts and are in communication with company executives. Additionally, the Nevada Gaming Control Board remains in communication with other law enforcement agencies.

However, many who spoke with 8 News Now on Wednesday said they want to see more done.

They dont know what they are doing at this point, Brett said. They are just scrambling.

Brett added that he wants to see something make up for all the issues he and other guests have had to deal with directly.

Just everybody is in the dark, Brett concluded.

One person who spoke with 8 News Now said hes been staying at MGM Grand since Friday and has been trying to check out early, but the hotel reportedly said they cant give him a refund.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
TULARE, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  A man has been arrested after an image flagged by law enforcement was traced to the City of Tulare, according to the Tulare Police Department on Wednesday.

On Sunday, detectives with the Tulare Police Department in conjunction with the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children say they received a tip regarding child sexual abuse material in the City of Tulare.

Detectives say an image was flagged online, leading them to further images of child sexual abuse material and conversations soliciting juveniles. Detectives identified the user of the account as 39-year-old Isaac Herrera of Tulare.

Detectives say they served a search warrant at Isaac Herreras residence in the City of Tulare. As a result of the search warrant, several electronic devices were seized and are pending further forensic examination.

According to the Tulare Police Department, Isaac Herrera was arrested and transported to the South County Detention Facility on suspicion of possession and distribution of obscene images of minors in a sexual manner.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
The best friend of one of the victims in the San Marco double murder finally has some peace of mind.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

On Wednesday, Action News Jax learned that Ty Christopher Head was the man who killed Paige Pringle and Tara Baker. Pringles best friend said this information helps those that knew and love her finally get closure.

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

But while friends and family have more information, its still a very difficult time. They may know who the killer is, but the question still remains -- why?

Everything that I could be thinking is kind of just going through my head, because Im relieved, Im happy, Im angry, Im frustrated, Paiges best friend, Liam Kiernan said.

RELATED STORY: Who would want to do this?: Beloved bartender one of two women killed in San Marco shooting

On Aug. 9, Paige Pringle and Tara Baker were tragically gunned down in a senseless act of violence in San Marco. Jacksonville Sheriffs Office said their investigation linked Head to the murder. But they then discovered he killed himself the next day outside of Nashville.

When Head took his own life, he blocked the only avenue for investigators to conclusively answer this question, Chief of investigations, Allen Parker said.

Sheriff T.K. Waters says this crime was strange as it appears to have been a random act of violence. But he adds this isnt usually the case in murders like this.

Its pretty rare, Sheriff Water said. I dont think Ive seen very many times where its been like that.

RELATED STORY: Man who killed 2 women in San Marco in August killed himself the next day, Jacksonville police say

Sheriff T.K. Waters says Heads family is not responsible for this crime and understands how difficult this may be for them and the victims families. However, he said, When it comes down to it, we were glad to know he was no longer in a position to hurt anybody else.

Now family and friends can try to get closure.

Bakers fiance didnt feel comfortable talking to us on camera, and while he said he didnt expect to find out who did it, hes happy to finally know.

Pringles co-worker and best friend, Liam Kiernan, said its still hard to wrap his head around her murder.

This information is just dredging up another mixture of things, I feel like a lot of people because were gonna go through, again, a fresh process a little bit here of, you know, again, asking the why, because now we have a face to the crime, he doesnt look like he would be the face behind it, Kiernan said.

On Monday, Pringles family held a service for her in Jacksonville. Kiernan said hundreds were there in attendance.

RELATED STORY: She was a shining star; Community looks to keep names of San Marco shooting victims alive

You could just feel that the love in that room was incredible, Kiernan said.

Now, Pringles friends are keeping her memory alive.

[SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter]

Were all listening to her music talking about her every single day, Kiernan said. So shes not forgotten about.

Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.
The Tule Lake Segregation Center once housed 27,000 Japanese Americans, imprisoned there during World War II.

More than 80 years ago, the U.S. government initiated a race-based program incarcerating Japanese Americans.

There are few people still alive who remember life in America's 10 "internment" prison camps, including the largest and most controversial: Tule Lake in Modoc County.

Survivors described Tule Lake as the camp most feared by those incarcerated because it also contained a high security prison for people deemed dissenters and spies.

Here's a timeline of events related to what is now Tule Lake National Monument in the North State, where 27,000 Japanese Americans were once imprisoned.

Dec. 7, 1941

The Empire of Japan attacks the Pearl Harbor Naval Base in Hawaii.

Feb. 19, 1942

President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs Executive Order 9066, authorizing the forced removal of all people the military considered a threat to national security to "relocation centers in remote areas. Some Germans and Italians, and 120,000 Japanese Americans are forced into camps.

1943 to 1944

The government forms the 442d Regimental Combat Team, a unit of Japanese American soldiers who fought in Europe. The unit became the most highly decorated of World War II," according to the National Archives.

Dec. 18, 1944

U.S. government announced that all relocation centers would be closed by the end of 1945.

Jan. 2, 1945

The first Japanese American prisoners are released from the camps.

August 1945

The United States detonated two atomic bombs over the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, killing between 129,000 and 226,000 people, most of them civilians.

Emperor Hirohito announces Japan's unconditional surrender.

December, 1945

The U.S. government closes nine prison camps. Tule Lake stays open and still houses people labeled as dissidents.

March, 1946

Tule Lake is shut down.

More: 100-year-old held at Tule Lake during World War II recalls his time in the detention camp

Aug. 10, 1988

Congress passes the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, apologizing for imprisonment and providing $20,000 in reparations to survivors.

2006-2008

Tule Lake is designated a national landmark. Under the protection of the National Parks Service it becomes Tule Lake National Monument.

Information for the timeline was provided by the Library of Congress, U.S. Census Bureau and the National Archives.

Jessica Skropanic is a features reporter for the Record Searchlight/USA Today Network. She covers science, arts, social issues and news stories. Follow her on Twitter @RS_JSkropanic and on Facebook. Join Jessica in the Get Out! Nor Cal recreation Facebook group. To support and sustain this work, please subscribe today. Thank you.

This article originally appeared on Redding Record Searchlight: How Pearl Harbor led to internment of Japanese Americans at Tule Lake
Panchen Erdeni Chos-kyi rGyal-po gives head-touching blessings to a believer in Lhasa, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, July 17, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

Panchen Erdeni Chos-kyi rGyal-po Tuesday completed a nearly three-month tour of Buddhist and social activities in Lhasa, the capital of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region.

Panchen Rinpoche, a member of the Standing Committee of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, vice president of the Buddhist Association of China, and president of the association's Tibet branch, arrived in Lhasa on June 18.

During his tour in Lhasa, Panchen Rinpoche visited several monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism and the Tibet Buddhism Academy, where he held prayer meetings and expounded on the Buddhist sutras.

"The future progress and development of Tibetan Buddhism is not the task of just one living Buddha or a few lamas, but instead the mission of all lamas and our generation," he told lamas in Ramoche Temple on July 26.

While in Lhasa, he also visited the regional hospital of traditional Tibetan medicine and a tech company making health products, among other locations.

"Traditional Tibetan medicine is a treasure in Chinese culture, and it is the responsibility of our generation to inherit and carry forward this unique traditional culture," he said at the hospital on July 28.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said Thursday that Speaker Kevin McCarthy s (R-Calif.) argument that she changed the precedent on impeachment inquiries is hogwash.

Thats hogwash. I mean, its ridiculous, and I dont know why the press keeps repeating it, Pelosi said on MSNBCs  Morning Joe , when asked about McCarthys claim. The fact is, we said we were going to assign my  committee chairs, six of them to develop the facts, because you have act upon the facts.

We had a couple of weeks of doing that [acting upon the facts], a few weeks of doing that. Three or four weeks, we then prepared to bring the bill to the floor, she continued, Theyve had eight months of investigation, come up with nothing.

McCarthy announced earlier this week he was moving to launch an official impeachment inquiry into President Biden without a vote on the House floor. His move has received some criticism of hypocrisy, after he pushed back against Pelosi launching an impeachment inquiry of former President Trump in the same manner in 2019.

When asked Tuesday if he was being hypocritical, McCarthy said: Im not, because she changed the precedent.

Pelosi argued that House Republicans cant blame their impulsive decision on her.

Now, theyre trying to say, Well were not going to have a vote because Nancy didnt have a vote the first day. No, we had a vote, we were in preparation for a vote.  This is a big deal  an impeachment, she said. You have to do it with care and not on impulse, and until we had the case ready, thats when we went forward.

Dont blame it on me.  Take responsibility for what you are doing there and dont misrepresent the care that we took, the respect that we had for the institution, to go forward in a way that really addressed the high crimes and misdemeanors of Donald Trump, the California Democrat argued.

House Republicans have embarked on a widespread investigation into Bidens son, Hunter Biden, looking into his time on the board of a Ukrainian energy company while his father was vice president.

The House Oversight and Accountability Committees investigation has not found that Biden directly financially benefited from his sons business dealings or proved that he made any policy decisions because of them.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) deferred to President Biden when asked whether she thought Vice President Harris was the best running mate for the incumbent in 2024, saying, He thinks so.

In an interview Wednesday night on CNNs Anderson Cooper 360, Pelosi praised the vice president as politically astute but deflected when pressed on whether she was the best running mate for Biden.

He thinks so, and thats what matters, she said when first asked.

And, by the way, Pelosi continued, not stopping when Cooper asked whether she also thought so, Shes very politically astute. I dont think people give her enough credit.

Shes, of course, values-based, consistent with the presidents values and the rest, she added.

Pelosi praised her fellow California Democrats ability to make her case to voters about why she is the right candidate for a given position, saying, People shouldnt underestimate what Kamala Harris brings to the table.

People dont understand. Shes politically astute. Why would she be vice president if she were not? she continued. But when she was running for attorney general in California, she had 6 percent in the polls  6 percent in the polls. And she politically astutely made her case about why she would be good, did her politics, and became attorney general.

Pelosi also noted that the job of vice president is often a thankless one that is intended to support the country, and Pelosi said Harris has done that job well.

Shes the vice president of the United States, Pelosi said when asked again whether Harris is the best running mate for Biden. People say to me, Well, why isnt she doing this or that? I say, Because shes the vice president. Thats the job description. You dont do that much. You know, you, youre a source of strength, inspiration, intellectual resource.

I think shes represented our country very well at home and abroad, she added.

Pelosi, who stepped down from leadership at the end of last year, continues to represent the 11th District of California in the House. Her comments on Harris come just under a week after she announced her own 2024 reelection bid.

I think nothing less is at stake than our democracy in this election, Pelosi said in the interview Wednesday. You hear that in the country. You hear that globally. And we have to remove all doubt that our democracy is strong.

In a statement to The Hill, Pelosis spokesperson, Aaron Bennett, stressed Pelosis unequivocal support for the Biden-Harris ticket and pointed to additional comments Pelosi made in an interview Thursday morning.

Last night, Speaker Emerita Pelosi, as always, heaped praise on the Vice President  saying that she is values-based, politically astute and represents our country very well at home and abroad. Today on Morning Joe, Pelosi reiterated her staunch, unequivocal support for the Biden-Harris team, Bennett wrote to The Hill.

Bennett pointed to Pelosis comments in Thursdays interview, when she said, The Biden-Harris team is our team. Were very proud of it. And were all going to work very hard to make sure that they are re-elected.

Updated at 4:24 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Clearfield County man is facing charges after officials said he sexually assaulted multiple young victims.

According to the Indiana County Office of the District Attorney, Manas J. Lee, 63, from Westover, is facing six felony charges of rape and six felony charges of involuntary deviant sexual intercourse.

Pennsylvania state police said in a criminal complaint that they became aware of allegations against Lee that claimed he had sexually assaulted a minor around 20 years ago.

During the investigation, multiple individuals made allegations against Lee. They told police of various times Lee sexually assaulted them and times they saw Lee sexually assaulting others.

Lee is being held on a $500,000 bail in the Indiana County Jail. He was unable to post bail and will be held in prison pending a preliminary hearing.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW

TRENDING NOW:

Winning Powerball ticket worth $150,000 sold in Allegheny County Wife of worker who fell from roof, died in Robinson Township working to keep legacy alive Woman charged with arson for allegedly starting fire in East Liberty Whole Foods stairwell North Side residents voice concerns about Allegheny General Hospitalas expansion plans DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts
In this photo provided by the U.S. Air Force, Gen. James Hecker, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe, speaks at the Air and Space Forces Association 2023 Warfare Symposium in Aurora, Colo., March 8, 2023. The U.S. is making precautionary plans to evacuate two key drone and counter-terror bases in Niger if that becomes necessary under the West African nations new ruling junta. That word came Friday from the Air Force commander for Africa, Gen. James Hecker. (Eric Dietrich/U.S. Air Force via AP) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

WASHINGTON (AP)  The Pentagon said Thursday that it has not restarted counterterrorism operations in Niger, a day after the head of U.S. airpower for Europe and Africa said those flights had resumed.

Gen. James Hecker, responding to a question from The Associated Press at a security conference Wednesday, said the U.S. military has been able to resume some manned aircraft and drone counterterrorism operations in Niger.

But the Pentagon issued a statement Thursday saying those missions are only for protecting U.S. forces and not the more sensitive, and broader, counterterrorism operations U.S. forces have successfully run with the Nigerien military in the past, adding stories to the contrary are false.

We are just flying ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) in order to monitor for any threats, Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh said at a press briefing Thursday. We are flying ISR for force protection purposes and that's it.

Nigers president was ousted in late July by a military junta. In the weeks since, the approximately 1,100 U.S. forces deployed there have been confined inside their military bases. News that some flights had resumed was seen as a good sign that State Department diplomatic efforts with the junta were improving security on the ground. For weeks the political uncertainty following the coup and the unstable security situation that followed has led to the U.S. consolidating some of its forces at a base farther from Niamey, Nigers capital.

In a clarifying statement Thursday, the spokesman for air forces in Africa, Col. Robert Firman, said that in his Wednesday remarks, Hecker was just referring to the air component perspective and was not addressing the overall counterterrorism program in Niger.

In a preview provided by Hecker's staff of an Atlantic Council taped program set to air Friday, he further elaborated on the efforts on the ground in Niger.

The last thing we want to have happen is, we dont want a shooting war over there. And the good news is weve been vastly successful at doing so with the help of the State Department, Hecker said. The airspace is starting to slowly come back up. And were able to do some of our surveillance operations primarily for force protection in the area. So thats helping us up quite a bit to make sure that were comfortable.

"And all the intelligence shows right now that the risk to to our forces is fairly low. But we need to make sure that if something happens, were ready to go. And were in a good position now that theyre starting to allow us to use some of our surveillance for force protection.

The U.S. has made Niger its main regional outpost for wide-ranging patrols by armed drones, training of host nation forces and other counterterrorism efforts against Islamic extremist movements that over the years have seized territory, massacred civilians and battled foreign armies. The bases are a critical part of Americas overall counterterrorism efforts in West Africa.
LIMESTONE COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT)  Work is moving ahead to remove the beloved but decaying Saturn 1B rocket from its longtime home at the Alabama  Tennessee state line.

News 19 stopped by the rocket Wednesday afternoon and saw crews and a crane working to dismantle it.

 Have breaking come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts 

Last month, the U.S. Space and Rocket Center confirmed that work had begun to remove the iconic rocket. Specifically, work had started to remove the rockets engines at that time.

















The 168-foot-tall rocket sits at the Alabama Welcome Center in Limestone County and is visible to both northbound and southbound drivers near the Tennessee state line.

Its a very sad day for not only Huntsville and North Alabama, Madison County, Limestone County, but the state and nation as a whole, Senator Tom Butler told News 19. To me, it still culminates in a very sad day for the engineers and technologists we had working in the space program and for Huntsville to be the place that got us to the moon and back.

According to NASA, Saturn 1B launched the Apollo spacecraft into Earth orbit to train for manned flights to the moon. After the completion of the Apollo program, Saturn 1B launched three missions to the Skylab space station in 1973. The Saturn 1B also was used for the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project in 1975.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

The rocket was installed at the Alabama Welcome Center 44 years ago. Sen. Tom Butler said the idea for putting the rocket there came from former Alabama Representative Tommy Carter.

In August, Butler said, Thats essentially Tommys rocket He called me one day, two, three months ago, and said Whatever you do, dont let them take my rocket down, he worked hard to get that rocket there.

A bill creating a plan to replace the rocket was signed by Governor Kay Ivey earlier this year.

The bill requires the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) to oversee the design, construction and installation of a replica of Saturn 1B.

Now that the bill has been made law, it will allow ADECA to accept public or private gifts, grants, and donations, including in-kind services, for use in commissioning the rocket, and may also use funds appropriated to the department by the Legislature for the purposes provided in this section.

However, it is unclear when a replacement will be placed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
KELSO, Ore. (KOIN)  Six kittens were discovered inside the walls of a newly constructed apartment complex in Washington state on Wednesday.

Fire officials in Cowlitz County said a faint noise coming from inside a wall in the building, located in the city of Kelso, turned out to be a whole litter.

Sarah Jessica Parker adopts Carrie Bradshaws cat from And Just Like That

The cats were found during a walkthrough inspection with on-site construction workers, who, along with fire officials, opened up a wall to get to them.

It is unclear how long the litter had been behind the new drywall, but crew members said that other than being hungry, the kittens were in good health.

After retrieving the six kittens, fire officials at the scene gave them what appeared to be milk.

(Courtesy: Cowlitz 2 Fire and Rescue)

(Courtesy: Cowlitz 2 Fire and Rescue)

(Courtesy: Cowlitz 2 Fire and Rescue)

(Courtesy: Cowlitz 2 Fire and Rescue)

Firefighters then drove the tiny felines to the Humane Society of Cowlitz County, where they will go up for adoption in a few weeks.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
FILE - The legal team for Planned Parenthood South Atlantic speaks outside the South Carolina Supreme Court building in Columbia, S.C. on Tuesday, June 27, 2023. In a complaint filed Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, the team wrote that a strict new abortion ban should be interpreted to take effect after approximately nine weeks of pregnancy. (AP File Photo/James Pollard, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  Abortion providers urged South Carolinas highest court on Thursday to lengthen the narrow window when a pregnancy can be legally terminated under the states strict new ban.

The conservative state's all-male Supreme Court last month upheld a so-called fetal heartbeat law commonly understood to restrict access after about six weeks of pregnancy, which is before most women know they're pregnant.

However, the court's majority opinion noted that the medical definitions written by the Republican-dominated state Legislature gave unclear directions to doctors about when they can provide an abortion. In a footnote, Justice John Kittredge wrote that the court would leave for another day whether the language refers to one period of time during a pregnancy or two separate periods of time.

Attorneys for Planned Parenthood believe they have an answer. In a complaint filed Thursday, they wrote that the ban should be interpreted to take effect after approximately nine weeks under the statute's language, because that's when most of the main parts of the eventual heart have developed.

The court itself has raised this issue and we think it needs to answer this ambiguity that its left open, Catherine Humphreville, an attorney for Planned Parenthood Federation of America, told The Associated Press.

"As it stands right now, providers are forced to take this more conservative approach because they are risking, essentially, jail time and the loss of their licenses, they said.

Spokespeople for both the South Carolina Senate majority leader and speaker of the House did not have responses Thursday afternoon to the lawsuit.

Republican Gov. Henry McMaster will file a motion intervening in the case to once again defend the heartbeat law and protect the right to life in South Carolina, according to a statement from spokesperson Brandon Charochak.

The law prohibits most abortions after an ultrasound detects cardiac activity. Doctors who violate the ban face up to two years imprisonment.

Cardiac activity can occur as early as six weeks into a pregnancy. The South Carolina General Assembly defined a fetal heartbeat as cardiac activity, or the steady and repetitive rhythmic contraction of the fetal heart, within the gestational sac.

Planned Parenthood South Atlantic argues that the most cautious medical consensus suggests the major components of what ultimately becomes the heart  the walls, valves, four chambers and electrical conduction system necessary for contractions  do not typically form before nine weeks of pregnancy.

A decision in their favor would mark a big shift in the number of people able to legally obtain abortions at Planned Parenthood facilities in Columbia and Charleston. According to the complaint, around 91% of patients there have been denied abortions in the roughly three weeks since the latest ban took effect. About 58% of those unable to get abortions were nine weeks pregnant or less.

It means the difference between turning away 50% of people and turning away 90% of people, Susanna Birdsong, the general counsel for Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, told the AP.

Abortion providers found themselves on the defensive after the state's highest court reversed course this summer from its January decision that a similar 2021 ban violated the right to privacy. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic Communications Director Molly Rivera said the group is now fighting for every inch of ground" after failing to get the new law completely struck.

___

Pollard is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
HOUSTON (WFLA)  A plumber made a morbid discovery after finding a fetus in a pipe at a Texas apartment complex, according to multiple reports.

The Harris County Sheriffs Office was notified of the situation on Monday, local outlet KPRC reported.

Residents at the Glen Cove Apartments had been complaining of drainage problems since Friday, according to Houston outlet KHOU.

As a plumber began working on a building, he opened a pipe and reported finding the remains inside.

Authorities said the fetus was in the early stages of development.

According to KHOU, a woman at the building was seen being taken away in an ambulance. While an investigation is underway, detectives said the fetus was probably related to a miscarriage.

Thats sad to lose a baby like that and not tell nobody, resident Paula Smith told KHOU.

As of this report, no one was charged in the case. Authorities have confirmed they know who the parents are but have not released their identity.

This is the not first time this happened in Texas. In January, a resident also found a fetus in the pipes of his apartment after he had issues with backflow.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Police have arrested one of two men they say are responsible for shoplifting and shooting at Southland Mall in July.

Investigators said Lashawn Hunter, 23, and another man were caught on camera stealing designer jeans at the ICON store inside the mall before opening fire on the store manager.

Thieves fire shots at Southland Mall store manager

The manager told officers he chased the shoplifters to the parking lot, and they fired shots at him as they fled in a white sedan. One bullet shattered a window on the back of the mall.

Police said Hunter and his accomplice got away with about $3,000 in merchandise. The general manager of Southland Mall said there was $2,000 worth of damage to the building.

Hunter is charged with aggravated assault, reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon, vandalism, and theft of merchandise.

Hunter is also accused of stealing $500 worth of liquor from Tip Top Liquor on Madison Avenue on July 2 and stealing $144 worth of liquor from a display rack at Joes Liquor on Poplar on July 29.

The shooting at Southland Mall happened on the fourth of July.

Hunter is being held on a $65,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Ten paintings created by African youths are showing what lofty dreams can achieve from an unprecedented corner of the universe  the Tiangong space station.

The artworks were selected through a competition, themed "My Dream", which received more than 2,000 entries from 42 African countries. They are now on display at the first international art exhibition at the Chinese space station.

At the awarding ceremony held on Wednesday in Beijing, the three astronauts who are conducting a mission at Tiangong introduced the 10 paintings to the audience, including winners and participants, through a recorded video call from the space station.

Astronaut Zhu Yangzhu showed two of the paintings  the first, from Nigeria, titled Shared Aspirations and the other, from Egypt, called China Is Africa's Hope to Realize Its Space Dream. In the latter, an African astronaut is seen shaking hands with a Chinese astronaut on another planet, with the Earth in the backdrop, where China and the African continent can clearly be seen.

"Your paintings show the enthusiasm of African youth for manned space missions, giving me confidence in China-Africa space cooperation in the future," Zhu said. "Exploring the unknown universe and developing space technology is the common cause of mankind, which cannot be separated from the cooperation of all countries in the world, including from Africa."

Another painting titled L'Unification, from Mali, shows colorful pieces of cloth being sewn together, which is symbolic of peace and unity. The idea is "to eliminate differences and rifts, and build a peaceful and beautiful world together", Zhu said.

The competition was jointly organized by the Secretariat of the Chinese Follow-up Committee of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the China Manned Space Agency.

During the awarding ceremony, Caren Chebet, a fourth-year student from the Confucius Institute at the University of Nairobi, Kenya, was among young people from nine African countries who got a chance to interact with Chen Dong, a Chinese astronaut who has conducted two missions to Tiangong in the past.

Chebet said that mysteries of the universe have fascinated her since childhood and she has always dreamed of flying into space. She said that Africans will soon see not just their paintings but themselves in space by learning from and cooperating with China's technology in space exploration.

Chebet expressed her heartfelt gratitude to China for giving hope to young Africans, including girls like herself.
Orlando police have made an arrest in connection with the vandalism of two LGBTQ+ centers in Orlando, according to a news release.

The graffiti included hateful rhetoric targeting the LGBTQ+ community.

 WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS

The incident happened on Aug. 26, when someone wrote hateful messages and symbols over the mural images of unity and pride from The Center Orlando and Zebra Youth in the Mills District.

On Wednesday, police arrested 34-year-old Matthew Robinson and charged him with three counts of criminal mischief.

Read: Hate has no place: LGBTQ+ murals vandalized in downtown Orlando

According to police, they will be seeking enhancements for evidence of prejudice during the commission of these crimes.

On September 13, 2023, Matthew Michael Robinson (34yoa W/M) was arrested and charged with 3 counts of Criminal Mischief. We will be seeking enhancements for evidence of prejudice during the commission of these crimes.



Full details of the crimes he committed  pic.twitter.com/QYeuS9HoB7  Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) September 13, 2023

Police are still encouraging anyone who has information related to this incident to call Orlando Police at 911 or make an anonymous call with Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS.

Read: Bicyclist seriously injured in Lake County hit-and-run crash, FHP asks for help finding driver

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Police officers who strip-searched a black schoolgirl while she was on her period could face the sack, Scotland Yard has announced.

Three constables are accused of gross misconduct for allegedly failing to seek permission for the traumatic search and singling out the 15-year-old because she was black and female.

The officers intimately searched the teenager at her school in Hackney, north London, in December 2020 without another adult present and in the knowledge that she was menstruating.

A fourth officer will also be disciplined for misconduct following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), the police watchdog.

Officers had been called to the school after teachers reported that the child, identified only as Child Q, was in possession of cannabis.

When staff searched her bag and outer clothing, no drugs were found.

She was then strip-searched under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 by two female officers in the schools medical room while two male officers and school staff stood outside.

Formal apology

The schoolgirls intimate body parts were exposed and she was made to take off her sanitary towel, according to an earlier safeguarding review.

Again, no drugs were found during the search.

Det Ch Supt James Conway, who leads policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, said that he is writing to the girl and her mother to formally apologise for the trauma she suffered.

He said: We have been clear in saying that the experience of Child Q should never have happened and was truly regrettable. While we have publicly apologised, I am also writing formally to Child Q and her family to say sorry for the trauma that we caused her.

It will now be for the hearing panel to determine whether the matters against the three officers are proven and it is important we dont prejudge the outcome.

Since Child Q we have made significant practical improvements, such as requiring more senior levels of authorisation, in how we carry out strip-searches in custody and what we call more thorough searches where intimate parts are exposed outside of custody. We had been overusing this power, and work locally and across the Met has significantly reduced our numbers.

Steve Noonan, the director of the IOPC, said: The strip search of Child Q, a 15-year-old girl, at her school in Hackney caused widespread concern. We have investigated the circumstances surrounding how this child was treated that day as fully as possible.

Weve found that four officers involved in the incident should face disciplinary proceedings for the parts they played. Ultimately it will be for that disciplinary panel to decide whether the allegations against them are proven.

We will now be liaising with the Met Police around disciplinary proceedings. Weve kept Child Qs representatives and the officers involved updated throughout our investigation.

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, also said: The strip search of Child Q was completely unacceptable and understandably caused a great deal of public concern.

He added: Since this incident last year, I have personally supported an interim review of all strip searching of children by the independent Policing Ethics Panel to ensure lessons are learnt by the Met and pushed for changes to be made to strip search guidance.

This action has led to the number of children strip searched by the Met being more than halved and policies changed significantly. But more must be done and I support the IOPCs calls for a substantial review of policing powers governing the strip searches of children.

Khan said he would continue to work closely with Sir Mark Rowley, the Met commissioner, to deliver a police service that has the trust and confidence of all of Londons communities.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
A late-night search in northern Iowa for a man accused of shooting and killing a police officer ended around midnight with the suspect being captured about two hours north in rural Minnesota.

Residents in Algona were asked to lock all doors and vehicles and stay inside Wednesday night during the search that include law enforcement from Iowa and Minnesota. The search was connected to a shots fired call involving an officer, according to Mitch Mortvedt, assistant director of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.

A post on Facebook from the DCI said 43-year-old Kyle Ricke allegedly shot a police officer around 8 p.m. Wednesday in the 1100 block of South Minnesota Street in Algona.

Law enforcement announced Thursday morning Algona police officer Kevin Cram was shot and killed.

The incident occurred a few blocks north of the Kossuth County Fairgrounds.

Kossuth County EMS vehicles are at the scene of an officer-involved shooting north of the Kossuth County Fairgrounds on South Minnesota Street on Thursday, September 14, 2023 in Algona.

Algona shooting suspect captured in rural Minnesota

Officials discovered that Ricke fled north into Minnesota. He was found around midnight in Leavenworth Township, rural Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, according to a news release from the Brown County Sheriff's office. Deputies with the office took him into custody without incident and he is currently in the Brown County Jail. The area is about two hours north of Algona and to the west of Mankato.

More details on the incident were not immediately available.

Algona is about 140 miles north of the Des Moines metro at the intersections of Highways 169 and 18.

Kossuth County EMS vehicles are at the scene of an officer-involved shooting north of the Kossuth County Fairgrounds on South Minnesota Street on Thursday, September 14, 2023 in Algona.

Suspect was in court day of shooting

Ricke appeared in Kossuth County court Wednesday for a charge of third-degree harassment.

According to court documents, an officer on Aug. 23 found 63 unread messages and several missed phone calls over two hours from Ricke to the victim. This happened after the victim told Ricke she no longer wanted contact with him, court documents say.

Four days later, the victim returned to police with more messages from Ricke. He allegedly admitted to contacting her after police warned him not to. Ricke was arrested and charged Aug. 28 and a no contact order was filed the following day.

The trial in that case is scheduled for Nov. 3.

Kossuth County EMS vehicles are at the scene of an officer-involved shooting north of the Kossuth County Fairgrounds on South Minnesota Street on Thursday, September 14, 2023 in Algona.

Law enforcement on scene Thursday morning

Law enforcement vehicles were scene behind caution tape Thursday morning, including an Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation crime scene unit vehicle. Caution tape blocked off access to a wooded area down a hill and a house off a gravel road that appears to be just outside Algona city limits. The scene is near a ravine behind a quiet residential neighborhood on the south side of town.

Law enforcement was seen in the backyard of a home in the 1100 block of South Minnesota Street on Thursday morning.

Noelle Alviz-Gransee is a breaking news reporter at the Des Moines Register. Follow her on Twitter@NoelleHannika or email her at NAlvizGransee@registermedia.com.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Algona police shooting suspect, Kyle Ricke, in custody in Minnesota
Shocking body cam footage shows a police officer laughing about a woman who was struck and killed by a patrol car in Seattle.

Jaahnavi Kandula, 23, was killed in January on a crosswalk near her university campus after she was struck by a patrol car and thrown over 100 feet while police were responding to an overdose in the South Lake Union neighborhood.

Seattle Police said the officer driving the patrol vehicle was responding to a priority-one call when the incident happened. The officer was going 74mph in a 25mph speed zone.

Shocking body cam footage shows a police officer laughing about a woman who was struck and killed by a patrol car in Seattle (Seattle Police)

Police ruled the incident was an accident, and returned the unnamed officer to duty shortly after.

Authorities are now investigating bodycam footage released by Seattle Police on Monday from the incident which shows officer Daniel Auderer  who is also the vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild  insulting and laughing about the 23-year-old student during a phone call just hours after the incident.

In the footage, Mr Auderer can be heard speaking to SPOG president Mike Solan. He said: There is initially  he said she was in a crosswalk, there is a witness that said, No she wasnt, but that could be different, because I dont think she was thrown 40 feet, either.

Mr Auderer can then be heard saying: She is dead, before laughing.

He continues: No, its a regular person  yeah, yeah, just write a check, just, yeah, before laughing again.

$11,000. She was 26 anyway, she had limited value, he says.

Jaahnavi Kandula (@ShehanJeyarajah via Twitter)

In a self-reported complaint to Seattles Office of Police Accountability, Mr Auderer said the conversation was private and meant to be part of his duties as a SPOG representative.

Mr Auderer said he called Mr Solan to explain what happened and that he inadvertently left his body camera running, KTTH reported.

Speaking about the conversation, the Seattle police officer said Mr Solan told him it was unfortunate Ms Kandulas death would turn into lawyers arguing the value of human life. 

I responded with something like: Shes 26 years old. What value is there? Who cares? I intended the comment as a mockery of lawyers, Mr Auderer reported.

Mr Auderer continued: I laughed at the ridiculousness of how these incidents are litigated and the ridiculousness of how I watched these incidents play out as two parties bargain over a tragedy, KTTH reported.

Mr Auderer acknowledged, according to KTTH, that anyone listening to the body-camera recording would rightfully believe I was being insensitive to the loss of human life.

He said the comment was not made with malice or a hard heart.

Ms Kandulas uncle Ashok Mandula said, according to the Seattle Times, The family has nothing to say. Except I wonder if these mens daughters or granddaughters have value. A life is a life.

Ms Kandula was struck down while crossing Dexter Avenue North near where it crosses Thomas Street in Seattle (Google Maps)

The Community Police Commission said the bodycam footage was heartbreaking and shockingly insensitive.

In a statement, the body said: The people of Seattle deserve better from a police department that is charged with fostering trust with the community and ensuring public safety.

The Seattle Police Department said: The following video was identified in the routine course of business by a department employee, who, concerned about the nature of statements heard on that video, appropriately escalated their concerns through their chain of command to the Chiefs Office which, following a review of the video, referred the matter to OPA for investigation into the context in which those statements were made and any policy violation that might be implicated.

This is what department policy and the Citys Accountability Ordinance require.

The statement continued: While any incident of public concern is under OPA, SPD or OIG review, no City employee should comment, either in their official or personal capacity, in a way that suggests that any factual, policy, or legal conclusions have been reached about the incident.

The Office of Police Accountability is investigating.

Ms Kandula was a student at Northeastern University, studying for a masters degree in information systems and was set to graduate this coming December.
A Pennsylvania state police leader attempted to deflect criticism this week after a group of fellow officers posed for a photo with escaped murderer Danelo Cavalcante just moments after his capture.

Cavalcante was at the epicenter of a highly publicized, nearly two-week manhunt that ended Wednesday. The 34-year-old was apprehended in a wooded area of South Coventry Township, Pennsylvania, after escaping from Chester County Prison on Aug. 31.

News of Cavalcantes capture understandably came as a relief to area residents. However, many of the arresting officers drew ire online after being seen gathering around the handcuffed fugitive as another cop snapped a photo on his phone.

Footage of the eyebrow-raising moment was captured for posterity by CBS News and other outlets.

The law enforcement team that captured convicted killer Danelo Cavalcante poses for a photo with him Wednesday morning following a nearly two week manhunt. https://t.co/KCAx2qePNWpic.twitter.com/YQBXZKLVeh  CBS News (@CBSNews) September 13, 2023

Every one of those officers should be reprimanded for unprofessionalism, one person tweeted.

Added another: I dont care how awful the crime isthis photo is in poor taste.

At a Wednesday news conference, Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens said he wasnt fazed and urged the media to focus on his team being able to capture Cavalcante successfully.

Those men and women worked amazingly hard through some very trying circumstances, Bivens said, according to NBC Philadelphia. Theyre proud of their work. Im not bothered at all by the fact that they took a photograph with him in custody.

He went on to note: Again, theyre proud of their work. They kept the community safe. I say thanks to them and good job.

Whether legal experts share that stance, however, is questionable.

From a policing ethics point of view, a police officer taking a picture on the street and putting it on social media or doing it as a celebratory or retaliatory thing is not OK, Adam Scott Wandt, an associate professor of public policy at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, told The Associated Press. As an attorney, it is an evidentiary problem being created here too. Its a dangerous practice for a police officer to create evidence on a scene and not properly turn it over to the prosecutor.

Last month, Cavalcante received a life sentence after being convicted of the 2021 murder of his ex-girlfriend, Deborah Brandao. He is also the lead suspect in a 2017 murder in his native Brazil.

Related...
Shortly after escaped inmate Danelo Cavalcante was captured in Pennsylvania on Wednesday following an intense 14-day manhunt, law enforcement officials posed for a group photo with the convicted killer.

The moment showing dozens of officers in camouflage, holding weapons, surrounding Cavalcante was captured by a helicopter from CBS Philadelphia station KYW, and it generated some criticism on social media.

One user on X, formerly known as Twitter, said the photo was in "bad taste."

A helicopter from CBS Philadelphia station KYW captured an aerial view of the moments following the convict's apprehension  showing law enforcement posing for a group photo with Cavalcante. / Credit: KYW

"I find it interesting that law enforcement is posing with smiles for the capture of Cavalcante," another X user wrote, adding that law enforcement did a "nice job" but that Cavalcante "embarrassed them for two weeks."

Another person compared the situation to SEAL Team Six, the American special operations unit who killed Osama Bin Laden in 2011.

When asked why no photos from the operation were released, then-President Barack Obama told CBS News' "60 Minutes" that's "not who we are."

"You know, we don't trot out this stuff as trophies," Obama said.

An X users shared this quote, adding: "keep that in mind when justifying Danelo Cavalcante capture photo."

Another X user said the photo was the "stupidest thing to come out of the manhunt," calling it "really unprofessional."

The police taking a group photo with Danelo Cavalcante like they just captured Bin Laden, is the stupidest thing to come out of this manhunt. Just really unprofessional. pic.twitter.com/KeNFtDSqHg      (@JasperJay40) September 13, 2023

When asked about the criticism, Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens said the officers were "proud of their work." "I'm not bothered at all by the fact that they took a photograph with him in custody," Bivens said during a news conference on Wednesday.

The Pennsylvania State Police's social media policy prohibits the sharing of confidential information, images of badges or uniform patches without authorization, and presenting conduct that could erode the public's confidence in the police.

Officials released several images after Cavalcante's capture including a photo of law enforcement leading him in handcuffs in what appears to be a hospital gown.

Law enforcement officers escort Danelo Cavalcante from a Pennsylvania State Police barracks in Avondale Pa., Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. Cavalcante was captured Wednesday after eluding hundreds of searchers for two weeks. / Credit: Matt Rourke / AP

Cavalcante, who was held at the Chester County Prison in West Chester after being sentenced to life in prison for first-degree murder, escaped from the facility on the morning of Aug. 31, launching an extensive manhunt.

After he fled, Cavalcante planned to carjack someone and flee to Canada, authorities said. He used a razor blade to shave his beard and mustache and survived on stolen watermelon and stream water, Cavalcante, a Brazilian national, told investigators through a Portuguese translator. He told law enforcement they nearly stepped on him several times during their search, as he hid under leaves and brush.

The Pennsylvania State Police was assisted by the U.S. Marshals Service during the extensive manhunt. A K9 named Yoda also assisted in locating Cavalcante.

Princess Diana's black sheep sweater auctioned for $1.1 million

Thousands dead, thousands unaccounted for in Libya flooding disaster

Cruise ship freed after running aground in Greenland
Atlanta police have released a photo of the man wanted in connection with the murder of a valet killed in a Buckhead parking garage.

On Sunday, September 3 at around 1:40 a.m., Atlanta police responded to reports of a person shot.

When they arrived they found the shooting victim, Harrison Olvey, suffering from a gunshot wound.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Police say Olvey was a valet at the parking garage and interrupted a man breaking into a vehicle when he was shot.

Police say Randy King, 22, is wanted for the murder of Olvey.

King is described as standing 5 9 tall and weighing approximately 133 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.

He is considered armed and dangerous.

TRENDING STORIES:

Anyone with information about Kings whereabouts is urged to contact Atlanta Police Detective L. Delain at 404-291-4281.

You can place an anonymous tip and be eligible for a cash reward for information that leads to the indictment and conviction of King by calling Crime Stoppers at 404-577-8477.

Anonymous tipsters will not be called to appear or testify in court.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

IN OTHER NEWS:
Chicago police issued a community alert after a sexual assault of a woman Wednesday night inside of her apartment in the Logan Square neighborhood.

Shortly before 10 a.m., a man entered the victims residence near Armitage and Mozart avenues. Once inside, the male forced the victim to engage in a sex act, the alert said.

The man left the victims apartment walking north toward Armitage, police said.

He was described by police as Black, between 20 to 30 years of age, and weighing between 180 to 190 pounds. He was last seen wearing a green camouflage jacket with a black hood and black stripes on the left sleeve, with black shorts and black croc sandals.

No one was in custody, and detectives were investigating.
Gwinnett County police say a woman found dead in the trunk of a Jaguar outside a popular Gwinnett County sauna was lured to the U.S. to join a religious group before she was starved to death.

Police said someone called to report a body in the trunk of a car outside the Jeju Sauna on Tuesday night.

Police found the remains of a woman in the vehicle.

On Thursday, police announced the arrests of six people -- five adults and a 15-year-old boy, in the womans death.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

They are identified as Eric Hyun, 26; Joonhyum Lee, 22; Joonho Lee, 26; Hyunji Lee, 25; and Gawon Lee, 26 and Junyeong Lee, 15.

All six have been charged with felony murder, imprisonment, tampering with evidence and concealing a death.

Police said in a news conference Thursday afternoon that the woman, who has not been identified, was from South Korea and was lured to Atlanta over the summer under the guise of joining a religious organization.

TRENDING STORIES:

Police said that after she arrived, she was beaten and starved for months until she died.

They called themselves Soldiers of Christ, police said. Apparently, the victim was subjected to beatings and malnourishment, which subsequently, and what the medical examiners office believes led to her death.

The official cause of death has not been determined.

The woman, who is believed to have been in her 20s or 30s, was approximately 70 pounds when her body was found, police said. They believe she may have been in the trunk for several days.

Police said they believe Hyun drove the Jaguar to the parking lot of the sauna, then called a family member and asked to be picked up and taken to a hospital to be treated for an unrelated injury.

He then sent the family member back to the vehicle to retrieve something, and that person discovered the body and called 911.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

Police said that after the body was found, the investigation led them to a home on Stable Gate in Lawrenceville, where they determined that the crimes happened in the homes basement.

Police said the three Lee brothers lived at the home. Hyun had lived at the home but was not related to the brothers. Hyunji Lee was one of the suspects girlfriends. All are U.S. citizens except for Gowan Lee, who is visiting on a visa.

Hyun is in custody at the hospital.

Police said they dont believe there are any more victims.
FILE PHOTO: Pope Francis' envoy Cardinal Matteo Zuppi attends a mass in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Moscow

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Francis ' envoy, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, had "open and cordial" talks in Beijing with a Chinese government official on the need to find ways to peace in Ukraine, the Vatican said on Thursday.

Meeting with Li Hui, China's Special Envoy for Eurasian Affairs, the Italian cardinal also addressed the issue of food security and blocked grain exports from Ukraine.

The meeting, which "took place in an open and cordial atmosphere, was dedicated to the war in Ukraine and its dramatic consequences", a statement said.

The two sides underlined "the need to combine efforts to encourage dialogue and find paths that lead to peace," the Vatican added.

Since Russian forces swept into Ukraine in February 2022, China has refrained from condemning its ally Moscow, although it has repeatedly called for a ceasefire and a political solution to the crisis.

Before his Beijing mission, Zuppi visited Kyiv and Moscow in June and Washington in July as part of the Holy See's so-far unsuccessful attempts to bring Ukraine and Russia closer to the negotiating table.

China's willingness to hold talks with the papal envoy has been seen as significant, given the difficult relations between Beijing and the Vatican.

The Vatican has bilateral relations with democratically governed Taiwan but not China, which claims the island as part of its territory. The Vatican is the only state in Europe to recognise Taipei.

Sino-Vatican ties have also been strained due to differences over the appointments of bishops in China. The Vatican complains that Beijing has named bishops unilaterally several times, violating a landmark 2018 pact.

(Reporting by Alvise Armellini, editing by Alexandra Hudson)
President Xi Jinping on Thursday sent a congratulatory letter to the 2023 Beijing Culture Forum that opened on the same day in Beijing.

In his letter, Xi highlighted the enduring fine traditional culture of the Chinese nation, which has always embraced openness and inclusiveness, noting that the Chinese civilization has always valued mutual understanding and respect among different civilizations.

"Beijing, with its long history and profound cultural heritage, serves as a powerful testament to the continuity, innovation, unity, inclusiveness and peaceful nature of the Chinese civilization," he said.

Xi said China will leverage the advantages of Beijing as an ancient capital and a national cultural center to strengthen cultural exchanges with the rest of the world, so as to jointly promote cultural prosperity, heritage preservation and mutual learning between civilizations and implement the Global Civilization Initiative.

Themed "inheriting cultural legacies and promoting exchanges and cooperation," the forum was jointly hosted by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee and the Beijing municipal government.
Pontiffs politics





As a conservative Catholic, I found recent criticism from Pope Francis to be highly hypocritical. Accusing conservative American Catholics of being political, ideological and backward is tantamount to the pot calling the kettle black. (Aug. 29, 5A, Pope criticizes US conservatives backwardness)

It was under Francis that a representative of the Chinese Community Party was allowed to attend a Vatican conference on human organ trafficking, and he has not strongly criticized China for its alleged involvement in the practice. The pontiff is not vocal denouncing the enslavement of ethnic Muslims and the decimation of the Tibetan culture, as long as the communist government allows some semblance of Catholicism to exist in China.

All previous popes since Pius IX in 1849, in response to Marxs Communist Manifesto, have condemned socialism and communisms siren song of peace, justice and fraternity. In his 2020 encyclical Fratelli Tutti (Brothers All), Francis condemns free-market capitalism (he previously described unfettered pursuit of money as the dung of the devil) and goes on to embrace an economy that favors productive diversity and business creativity  a new version of Marxism.

Francis has a close relationship to American Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, who had sexual abuse charges levied against him and was a concelebrant at the 2015 funeral of then-Vice President Joe Bidens son Beau.

Catholics should not look to his spiritual guidance, which has been quite worldly and bankrupt, if not totally political.

- Mike Kalny, Shawnee

Doing just fine?

Tyler Cowens Sept. 9 commentary Yes, there are rich men north of Richmond, where he argues that lower-income Americans are essentially prosperous, is misleading. (6A) While poor people pay much less in federal income taxes, they pay more as a percentage of income in federal payroll (Social Security), sales and excise taxes. And if they own a home, they pay more in property taxes as a percentage of their income. A homeless person who unwisely spends money on cigarettes or alcohol is paying a higher percentage on taxes than most millionaires.

Also, saying people should move to where wages are higher completely ignores the values that people place on relationships with friends and family. And a $13,000 per-capita income in a small town is still an income of $52,000 for a family of four.

Cowen as an economist reduces everything to money and nothing else and as a libertarian disregards or ignores the ties that connect people to each other and to the place they live.

I find that sad.

- Gary Brush, Kansas City

Power to Kansans

Evergys wealthy managers and board members make millions in annual compensation. Its president, David Campbell, received $6.89 million last year, according to the AFL-CIO. Along with hedge funds Bluescape and Elliott Management, the utility is seeking exorbitant rate hikes from Kansas customers and is already planning another rate hike request for next year.

Evergys high-dollar managers awarded most of the companys record 2022 income to shareholders instead of improving customer service, wages or infrastructure. We remain committed to returning capital to our shareholders, said CFO Kirk Andrews, who makes $3 million a year, according to Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

Bluescape and Elliott Management leveraged their financial stake in Evergy, securing multiple members on the utilitys finance committee. Jeff Rosenbaum, Elliotts portfolio manager, urged Evergy to take steps to boost stock prices. Elliott is looking for equity value creation of up to $5 billion. Under Evergys plan to raise rates, customers would pay more so shareholders would get more.

Because Evergy is a monopoly, customers have no recourse to shop elsewhere for their electrical needs. The Kansas Corporation Committees approval is required before Evergy can raise its rates. Please tell the KCC to instruct Evergy to deliver an energy plan that works for Kansans.

- Angela Schieferecke, Prairie Village
[Source]

A widely popular Korean webtoon has come under scrutiny for its recent episode that ignited accusations of racism.

Problematic panels: "Get Schooled," which has over 99 million views on Webtoon, drew controversy over the introduction of a mixed-race character in its latest installment.

Episode 125 features Hwang Ho-jun, a middle school student residing in a countryside town with a diverse population identifying himself as the sole "pure" Korean in his class. In the same episode, Lee Muk-hyun, a school bully, is described as Korean Ethiopian with a "massive physique."

Several unsettling moments are featured throughout the episode. For example, a group of high school students are seen subjecting the bully to racial slurs that are equivalent to the N-word, culminating in a physical altercation. Lee is then depicted mocking other students who have been forced to act like monkeys.

More from NextShark: Producers of 'Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha' ask fans to stop entering the real-life houses used in the show

Social media backlash: The episode's release prompted widespread outrage among fans who found its content offensive.

On Monday, a fan on TikTok, user @rin.joestar, expressed her disappointment and disbelief in a video that has since garnered over 21,000 likes, lamenting that she had been a long-time fan and follower of the webtoon.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

More from NextShark: Zombie Detective star Jung Chae-yul dies at 26

Webtoon responds: In response to @rin.joestar's TikTok video, the official Webtoon account made a series of comments vowing to remove the episode.

"The racist content has been removed from our platform, and the episode is currently in review, the comment read. Racism or racist content have no place on WEBTOON. It should not have been published, and we apologize to anyone who encountered it or harm it caused to the incredible WEBTOON community. The content depicted in this episode does not align with WEBTOON's values and is absolutely not something we stand for.

Following the backlash, the creators of "Get Schooled," Yongtaek Chae and Garam Han, issued an apology to acknowledge that they had failed to "recognize how certain expressions are racist." The creators have since edited and removed the offensive content from the episode and put the series on hiatus in the U.S. as they commit to learning more about "past and present racial discrimination, and the history of racist representations."

More from NextShark: Activist group calls for awards boycott of 'Licorice Pizza' over its 'egregious mocking of Asians'

Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark!

'Shang-Chi' director wants Jackie Chan to be in the sequel
CONCORD  A federal grand jury has indicted Portsmouth High School shooting threat suspect Kyle Hendrickson for allegedly possessing a firearm in a school zone, New Hampshire U.S. Attorney Jane Young announced Thursday afternoon.

The 25-year-old from Berwick, Maine, who was arrested on a criminal complaint in April, has been indicted on the possession charge and for a single count of interstate threatening communications.

It is alleged that on April 12, Hendrickson, having just dropped off his mother at Portsmouth High School, took a Snapchat video from inside a car showing him brandishing a handgun. The video contained a text overlay, reading: Imma gonna shoot up the school.

Still shots of the Snapchat video allegedly made by Kyle Hendrickson, who is facing charges for allegedly threatening to shoot up Portsmouth High School.

Portsmouth schools were closed the following day as a result of the threat. At that point, Hendrickson was still at large.

Police set out to find Hendrickson on April 13. As Portsmouth students stayed home for the day, he was found and apprehended that afternoon in Portland, Maine. Hendrickson was taken to the Portsmouth police station for booking a few days later and subsequently to Concord for his initial federal court appearance.

Youngs office announced after Hendricksons arrest that the car he was driving, a 2014 Ford Explorer, was found stocked with weapons and ammunition.

Kyle Hendrickson, 25, was arrested by Portland, Maine police last week on a charge of criminal threatening with a firearm after allegedly posting an alleged social media threat to shoot up Portsmouth High School. Hendrickson additionally faces a federal charge of "transmitting in interstate commerce a threat to injure the person of another," per New Hampshire U.S. Attorney Jane Young.

School surveillance footage placed Hendricksons vehicle outside the high school at the time of the video, a news release on Thursday reads. Law enforcement recovered an AR-15 rifle, a shotgun, camouflage body armor, a handgun holster, a red-dot sight, and numerous rounds of ammunition from Hendricksons vehicle. A handgun that resembles the one used in the SnapChat video was also recovered near a motel where Hendrickson had stayed on April 12, 2023.

New Hampshire does not have a law preventing people who are not students from possessing a firearm in a school zone. However, the Gun-Free School Zones Act signed into law in 1990 prohibits individuals from knowingly possessing a firearm in a school zone, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Any pupil who brings or possesses a firearm  concealed or otherwise  in a safe school zone (any school property or school bus) without written authorization from the superintendent shall be expelled from school by the local school board for at least 12 months, said the Giffords Law Center, referencing state law.

Portsmouth Superintendent of Schools Zach McLaughlin told the School Board on Tuesday the district is in the midst of identifying costs associated with closing all city schools for a day due to the alleged threat.

They have asked us to monetize, to the best of our ability, what restitution might look like, but no additional steps have been taken to this point. Weve reached out to  folks within the leadership team for what we would identify as costs that were incurred as a result of dealing with the threat and the school closure, he said. Weve received information and were in the process of trying to put a dollar figure on those things, and well be in contact with the U.S. attorneys office to see what could happen from there.

Each charge against Hendrickson, according to Youngs office, carries a sentence of up to five years, up to three years of supervised release and a fine upwards of $250,000. Potential sentences would be imposed by a federal district court judge.

Portsmouth police and the FBI led the investigation, assisted by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Somersworth Police Department, the Portland Police Department, and the Berwick Police Department.

The case against Hendrickson is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.

Court documents filed earlier this summer indicated Hendricksons defense was negotiating a plea deal with the state, though that has not been finalized. U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrea Johnstone approved a motion last month from Hendricksons lawyers recommending he participate in a therapeutic community program at the Strafford County House of Corrections.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Portsmouth NH shooting threat suspect charged for gun in school zone
MERRILL - The pre-kindergarten school in a northern Wisconsin school is now providing bottled water for students and staff, after elevated levels of "forever chemicals" were found in the well serving the building.

Culligan water is being provided in every room in Pine River School for Young Learners where students drink water or brush their teeth, said Shannon Murray, superintendent of the Merrill School District.

So far things have been going smoothly, Murray said, and the bottled water and open conversation are helping to keep the community calm.

"The kids have been great. The families have been great. Social media has been very supportive," he said. "It's not like anybody's done anything wrong, but I would classify it as a pretty significant inconvenience."

Mandatory testing in early August found PFOS, one of the two most well-known and well-researched PFAS compounds, at 78 parts per trillion in a well serving the school, above the state standard of 70 parts per trillion for the compound. PFOA was detected below the limit at 54 parts per trillion. Several other PFAS compounds that are unregulated in the state were also detected by the test, according to state data.

The levels of both PFOA and PFOS are both above recommendations from the Environmental Protection Agency of 4 parts per trillion, which could become federal regulations if approved.

While PFAS can be harmful to adults as well, the EPA suggests that the compounds could be worse for children, because they drink more water, eat more food and breathe more air per pound of body weight than adults.

More: Gov. Tony Evers asks for safeguards on PFAS bill to ensure communities can access state relief

In testing conducted by the Journal Sentinel last summer, Merrrill's water system had low levels of PFAS, but nothing near the levels of the Pine River school. Burton said that at this point, the source is unknown, and could have come from anywhere.

But a drive past the school doesn't give any additional clues as to where the contamination could be coming from. Surrounded by agricultural fields, the closest businesses to it are a storage company and a combination Kentucky Fried Chicken and Taco Bell restaurant.

"Right now we're working with the school to reduce exposure. We really haven't done any kind of investigation," said Kyle Burton, the field operations director of drinking water and groundwater for the DNR. "There's no real smoking gun, there are so many sources of PFAS."

More: Forever chemicals are a growing problem. Heres what we found when we tested Wisconsins drinking water.

In the meantime, the DNR and the school district are exploring options for treating the contamination.

"Longer term, the DNR kind of walks us through some long-term solutions, including connecting up to city water and the city water has passed all PFAS tests so far," Murray said. "That estimate would be about a million and a half bucks without getting too far into it."

The district is also exploring moving the operations of the school to a different building next year, which would be connected to the city water instead of the private well. The district has an empty building that used to be an elementary school, so that option could be viable, Murray said, and the community is talking about the option.

A lack of information on how long PFAS have been in the well or how many students may have been exposed is raising concerns. Murray's own children attended the school when they were younger, but the district can only focus on solutions at this point, and how those will eventually be paid for.

Money will be a bit of an issue, but the district will do what it can to ensure no other students are exposed.

"We just cut 3 million from our budget coming into the school year," he said. "It's a surprise."

More: 'Forever chemicals' found in Wisconsin River, lakes near Stella, raising concerns over fish

About PFAS

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a family of man-made chemicals used for their water- and stain-resistant qualities in products like clothing and carpet, nonstick cookware, packaging and firefighting foam.

The family includes 5,000 compounds, which are persistent, remaining both in the environment and human body over time. The chemicals have been linked to types of kidney and testicular cancers, lower birth weights, harm to immune and reproductive systems, altered hormone regulation and altered thyroid hormones.

The chemicals enter the human body largely through drinking water. PFAS have been found across Wisconsin.

Laura Schulte can be reached at leschulte@jrn.com and on X at @SchulteLaura.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: PFAS found in well water puts Wisconsin pre-K school on bottled water
Lauren Boebert was kicked out of a musical performance over the weekend.

Boebert was reportedly vaping during the show, which her campaign has denied.

A pregnant woman said she was seated behind Boebert and that she refused to stop vaping when asked.

A pregnant Colorado woman said she sat behind GOP Rep. Lauren Boebert at a musical performance of "Beetlejuice" where she recounted that the lawmaker wouldn't stop vaping even when asked.

On Tuesday, the Denver Post reported that Boebert was kicked out of a performance on September 10 at the Buell Theatre. The Post reported that she and a person with her were escorted out of the theatre after venue workers claimed she was taking photos on her phone mid-show, vaping, and loudly "causing a disturbance."

Whie Boebert's campaign manager denied she had vaped during the performance, he confirmed she was present and boisterous at the show in a tongue-in-cheek response to the Denver Post: "I can confirm the stunning and salacious rumors: in her personal time, Congresswoman Lauren Boebert is indeed a supporter of the performing arts (gasp!) and, to the dismay of a select few, enthusiastically enjoyed a weekend performance of 'Beetlejuice.'"

One person with intimate knowledge of the showing  a pregnant woman sitting behind Boebert  told the Post that she saw Boebert vaping and asked her to stop, which the legislator refused to do, telling her, "No."

The pregnant woman, whose name the Post did not release because she feared "backlash" from Boebert and her supporters, said she complained to the usher about Boebert's conduct at intermission and when she returned to her seat, she said Boebert took aim at her and called her a "sad and miserable person."

According to the police report from the incident, Boebert later threatened some of the theatre's workers as she was escorted out of the building, telling them things like, "Do you know who I am," "I will be contacting the mayor," and "'I am on the board."

Surveillance footage shows Boebert giving the middle finger to an usher as she was walked out of the building.

Boebert's campaign did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A Polk County jury has convicted a Des Moines teen of manslaughter and second-degree murder for gunning down two fellow students in January at the Starts Right Here program downtown.

Preston Walls shot and killed Rashad Carr, 16, and Gionni Dameron, 18, on Jan. 23 at the alternative education program, which works with Des Moines Public Schools. Program founder William Holmes, also known as Will Keeps, was seriously wounded in the shootings.

Prosecutors had charged Walls with first-degree murder for both killings, either of which would have resulted in a sentence of life in prison. Instead, the jury on Thursday afternoon convicted Walls of second-degree murder for Carr's death, and voluntary manslaughter for Dameron's slaying.

Gionni Dameron died in a shooting at Starts Right Here on Jan. 23, 2023.

The charges carry at least a 50-year prison term, with a 35-year mandatory minimum on the murder charge.

After deliberating more than two days, the jury acquitted Walls of attempted murder for shooting Keeps, but convicted him of willful injury causing serious injury. It also found him not guilty of criminal gang participation.

Defense attorney Darren Page said afterward that he remains "heartbroken" over the shooting and the violence between local youths, but that "the jury did their jobs" and he respects their decision.

Rashad Carr died in a shooting at Starts Right Here on Jan. 23, 2023.

At trial, Preston Walls argued double shooting was justified

Opening statements in Walls' trial began Aug. 31, and prosecutors presented testimony to argue that Carr and Dameron were members of a rival gang and had put out a rap video disrespecting slain members of Walls' gang before the shooting.

The attack was captured on video, and defense attorneys conceded that Walls was the shooter, but they argued he was legally justified. On Monday, Walls took the stand to testify he believed Carr and Dameron had planned to kill him and feared for his life before opening fire.

During Tuesday's closing arguments, Page argued that although video from the school does not show any threats or interaction between Walls and Carr or Dameron before the shooting, Walls interpreted glances and other signals to believe they planned to attack him and reasonably decided to shoot first.

"Its not necessary that theres actual danger. He doesnt have to be shot at. He doesnt have to wait until theres a gun pointing at him. But he has to act in the honest and sincere belief the threat existed," Page said.

Prosecutors argued shooting was premeditated murder

Prosecutor Daniel Voogt called Walls' self-defense argument "ridiculous."

"None of these men confronted or threatened him in any manner on Jan 23.  This justification defense as the defendant describes it is, 'my ESP was really good that day so I had to kill those guys,'" Voogt said. "That is ridiculous, and it is unsupported by the facts and unsupported by the law."

The attorneys further disagreed about whether there was evidence to suggest Keeps was shot intentionally, and how to interpret text messages between Walls and other alleged gang members before the shooting. Voogt also pointed out that a shooting is justified only if the threat is "unavoidable."

Walls not only came into the school's main room looking for Dameron and Carr, but dodged Keeps' attempt to escort him out, he said.

"Theres a saying, believe your eyes and not your ears," Voogt said. "If you do that, you will hold this defendant accountable for the crimes he has committed. Find him guilty as charged."

Community leader calls for end to cycle of violence

Rep. Ako Abdul-Samad, D-Des Moines, attended the trial and said after the verdict that all the families involved are hurting, regardless of the verdict.

"When you lose a child, it's not going to be all right, whether you lose them into incarceration, or you lose them to death," said Abdul-Samad, who is also founder and CEO of the anti-violence nonprofit Creative Visions. "I'd say that to the community: Let the families grieve."

Investigators testified during the trial that gang disputes have led to hundreds of shootings around Des Moines in recent years, and Abdul-Samad urged the community to commit itself to stopping the cycle of violence here.

"When our city and our state decide that they're sick and tired of being sick and tired, and they're ready to develop a comprehensive plan, that's when we will begin to make some progress," he said, adding that business, education and media leaders will all have a role in planning for a less violent future in Des Moines.

Walls will be sentenced at a later date. In addition to Walls, police have also charged Bravon Tukes, alleging that he conspired with Walls to plan the shooting and acted as his getaway driver afterward. His trial is scheduled for October.

William Morris covers courts for the Des Moines Register. He can be contacted at wrmorris2@registermedia.com, 715-573-8166 or on Twitter at @DMRMorris.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa jury convicts teen in double slaying at Starts Right Here school
On this weeks episode of Processing Blue, Charlotte Observer columnist Scott Fowler joins host Langston Wertz Jr. to talk about last weeks loss to Atlanta and the upcoming Monday night game with New Orleans.

Fowler talks about the prospects of starting 0-2 and when, if not Monday, he thinks the Panthers might win. Also on the podcast, we discuss:

 Aaron Rodgers injury.

 Bryce Young s Week 1 performance and how it can get better.

 What the New Orleans Saints, Carolinas Week 2 opponent, has that the Panthers are missing.

 Other than Brian Burns, which Panthers defender is the best right now?

 How Youngs wide receivers are performing so far, and who might emerge.
Numerous girls were sexually abused by members of a quasi-religious group once headquartered in Kansas City, Kansas, whose alleged leaders stand accused of child labor trafficking, prosecutors say.

Federal prosecutors alleged systemic and pervasive sexual and physical abuse of children within the group previously known as the United Nation of Islam, which a federal judge in Kansas labeled a cult.

Of the more than 15 examples of sexual abuse detailed by the U.S. Attorneys Office in Kansas, one is attributed to one of the defendants in the child labor case: Daniel Aubrey Jenkins, who allegedly engaged in sexual relationships with underage girls, including one of the Justice Departments witnesses.

Prosecutors said Jenkins and the girl were married  arrangements that were allegedly forced by the cults leader and were not legal  when she was 15. She gave birth to a child at 16, prosecutors wrote.

Jenkins lawyer did not return a call or email seeking comment. The Star could not reach Jenkins, who has not been charged with sex abuse in the federal case.

Eight of the sects alleged leaders were indicted in 2021 on accusations that they persuaded parents across the U.S. to send their kids to an unlicensed school they ran in KCK. But instead of education, they forced children as young as 8 to work 16-hour days at their businesses, prosecutors say.

The indictment alleged children were physically beaten, but made no mention of sexual abuse. But in responding to pre-trial motions, prosecutors recently disclosed sexual abuse accusations against other members of the group. That included at least six examples of girls being married off to adult men.

The United Nation of Islam, or UNOI, was founded by a truck driver, Royall Jenkins, after he left Louis Farrakhans Nation of Islam. Eventually amassing hundreds of followers, Jenkins moved his groups headquarters in the late 1990s to Kansas City, Kansas, which he called Heaven. The group ran businesses along Quindaro Boulevard with names like Your Diner and Your Service Station.

Jenkins claimed he was abducted in 1978 by angels who showed him how to rule on Earth. Representing himself as Allah, or God, Jenkins also married and sexually abused multiple underage girls, prosecutors alleged in court records in May.

One of Jenkins many wives once told an underage girl that it was her duty to have sex with Jenkins, prosecutors said.

Referred to in court documents as an unindicted co-conspirator, Jenkins died of COVID-19 complications in 2021  weeks before he would have been indicted.

Royall Jenkins

A weeks-long trial is set to begin March 4 for seven defendants who have pleaded not guilty. An eighth, Etenia Kinard, pleaded guilty last month to conspiracy to commit forced labor and faces up to five years in prison.

In court filings, two of the defendants argued that Royall Jenkins and others were more culpable than they were, while others contended the indictment should have been tossed because the statute of limitations had expired. A lawyer for another said he vigorously denies the forced labor allegations.

UNOI was dismantled in 2012 or 2013, but turned into two organizations known as the Value Creators and The Promise Keepers. Whether those groups operate today remains unclear, but the sect reportedly opened a restaurant, the Royall Touch, in 2018 across from the federal courthouse in KCK. A sign on its door last month said it closed in July but would open at a new location.

Prosecutors recent filings also reveal that suspicions about the group were reported to authorities. In 2010, for example, a woman told police  though its unclear where or which agency  that the group moved her children from Kansas to New Jersey and Georgia without her permission.

The FBI briefly looked into a report in 2008 about Jenkins and potential fraud-related activity regarding welfare proceeds, prosecutors said, but a case was not pursued.

Childhoods ripped from survivors

Prosecutors allege the United Nation of Islam controlled all aspects of the childrens lives, which included restricting their meals and refusing them medical attention if they were injured.

Kids were sent to work at businesses across the U.S., including in Newark and Cincinnati, and their parents could go months without knowing where they were, prosecutors said.

Today, some UNOI survivors are advocates in the anti-trafficking movement, such as Kendra Ross, who in 2018 won a nearly $8 million judgment against the sect in federal court in KCK. Their public comments also provide insight into what kind of testimony might be given at trial.

Ross, who could not be reached by The Star, is now a consultant at the Washington, D.C.-based Human Trafficking Legal Center, whose website says she plans to become a lawyer. Among other things, she has briefed D.C.s attorney general on labor trafficking, it says.

Speaking in 2018 on Megyn Kelly Today, Ross said there was no age limit for when girls could be forced into marriages, including one girl she heard of who was 13. The cult arranged a marriage between a man, who practiced polygamy, and Ross when she was 20, according to her lawsuit, which centered on the 40,000 hours of labor she said she was forced to do across the U.S.

I will have to manage this lifetime of trauma, Ross told Megyn Kelly. And its not fair.

In court, Ross lawyer said Ross, like many men, women and children, was treated like an unpaid servant, a slave. After Ross won her lawsuit, a judge in Kansas ordered that Jenkins be arrested for failing to appear in court, but he went into hiding. The FBI was never able to interview him.

A deserted building along North 13th Street in Kansas City, Kansas, which was once listed as the principal place of business of the United Nation of Islam, can be seen in this Google Street View image.

Another survivor, Elijah Muhammed, shared his story in a 2020 TEDx Talk in Dayton, Ohio. It was in 2002, he said, that a UNOI official called his parents, who were members of the group, and told them it was time for their sons to begin their pilgrimage to manhood and move to Wyandotte County.

The next evening, Muhammed and his brother were taken 600 miles in the back of an 18-wheeler as if they were packages being sent out for delivery, he said. Once in KCK, they were packed like sardines with dozens of boys and men in an apartment.

Muhammed, who The Star also could not reach, described acts of violence, including when he was struck with a phone book for once being late to work at a UNOI restaurant, sending him to the ground bloody. Kids had their bones broken and faces swollen in beatings, he said.

At the TEDx Talk event, Muhammed also recalled a friend of his being attacked by four men, who kicked him down a flight of stairs. Muhammed was 12 at the time.

To add insult to injury, one of the guys literally poured salt on (his) wounds, he said.

Like other survivors, Muhammed said his childhood was ripped from him. He also noted that when a friend of his died of an illness, Royall Jenkins claimed she killed herself by becoming ill.

In filings this year, prosecutors included the death among dozens of examples of physical abuse within the group. The 14-year-old girl, whose name was Shaquanta Williams, died of cancer after Jenkins refused to allow her to go to a hospital, prosecutors said.

An obituary published in The Star said Williams, of Wichita, died April 19, 2009, at Childrens Mercy Hospital.

Speaking to his followers that day, Jenkins claimed the girl willed herself into extreme illness because she missed her father, according to a recording of his speech.

Shaquanta begged to go to the hospital, Muhammed said in a 2018 interview with the A&E series, Cults and Extreme Belief, which did an episode on UNOI. And they did not take her.

Prosecutors, in recent court records, pointed to other times when injured children were refused medical attention. That included when a youth member was allegedly punched in the face, giving him a permanent scar, and vomited blood for days.

All the while, the group received glowing press coverage and recognition from officials for bringing business to Quindaro Boulevard. That members were not paid for work was not a secret; one teenage boy told The Star in 1999 he worked since he was 10, but had never been paid.
A defensive cow moose trampled a hiker after their dog began barking on a Colorado trail, wildlife officials said.

Two hikers with three leashed dogs first saw the mother moose and a calf in a clearing along Crags Trail in Teller County on Sept. 12, Colorado Parks and Wildlife said in a Sept. 13 news release.

Though they tried to go around while keeping some space from the moose, she continued toward them, and one of the dogs began to bark, officials said.

The moose came at them and trampled one of the hikers, officials said.

The hikers were able to get out from under the moose, officials said. But as they tried to run away, the mother continued to chase after them down the trail.

The moose eventually stopped chasing the hikers, who were able to get to their cars, officials said.

The trampled hiker had only minor injuries, according to officials.

This incident is a reminder of why we warn everyone to respect wildlife and give them their space, Tim Kroening, a wildlife manager with the department said in the release, adding that moose often see dogs as predators and act defensively in response.

This cow moose was exhibiting classic protective behavior of its calf, Kroening said. If you are in the backcountry, give wildlife extra space. Especially when wildlife are raising their young.

Kroening said dogs should be kept on leashes, as these hikers did, or better yet, keep them at home.

With a growing moose population and more people moving to the state, wildlife officials urged that its especially important to take precautions when recreating in the state.

This incident marks the third reported moose attack on humans in the state so far this year, officials said.

One precaution hikers can take is to avoid thick willow areas where moose may be eating or resting, Kroening said.

Moose calves are born at the end of May through mid-June and are often lying in the willows while their mother is off grazing and will stay with their mother into the fall, Kroening said.

As wildlife enter their breeding periods in the fall, where male will become more aggressive, fighting each other for the opportunity to mate, Kroening said this aggression can sometimes be turned toward people that get too close.

Kroening said people should enjoy wildlife from a distance.

If you see wildlife ahead of you on a trail, do not attempt to keep going. Instead, back away slowly and return the way you came, Kroening said.

Teller County is about 20 miles west of Colorado Springs

Protective moose stomps on Colorado man walking his dogs. Doing her job as a mom

Deer hunter shoots at attacking grizzly, Montana rangers say. Search for bear continues

Aggressive, drooling profusely moose has disease never seen in its species in Alaska
 Flash

"Re-globalization is in our common interest," Ralph Ossa, chief economist of the World Trade Organization (WTO), told Xinhua in a recent interview.

According to Ossa, re-globalization means increased international cooperation and broader integration and is key to addressing the pressing challenges of our time and to building a secure, inclusive and sustainable future.

On Tuesday, the WTO published the 2023 edition of the World Trade Report. This flagship document presents new evidence of the benefits of broader, more inclusive economic integration as early indications of trade fragmentation threaten to unwind growth and development.

The report aims at challenging the rising trade-skeptic narrative, which suggests that international trade is an obstacle to building a more secure, inclusive and sustainable world, he said. Such narrative is "fundamentally different from the narrative that has been guiding trade policymaking since 1947."

"Globalization is really at a crossroads," as the tide is turning against it, but there's still time to act, he said.

Trade policy tensions are on the rise and the first signs of fragmentation along geopolitical lines are already visible, but overall trade is holding up strong, hence the talk of de-globalization is certainly exaggerated, he noted.

"The economic costs of fragmentation are going to be large," Ossa said. A simulation made by WTO economists suggests that in the worst-case scenario of full geopolitical rivalry, global incomes on average will fall by 5 percent, and trade flows on average will fall by 13 percent, he added.

To maintain peace and security, to reduce poverty and inequality, and also to achieve a sustainable economy, "we need to embrace trade and not reject it ... we also need a multilateral trading system," he stressed.

According to the chief economist, the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement, which entered into force on Feb. 22, 2017, has increased trade by 231 billion U.S. dollars. These gains have particularly accrued to developing countries, indicating that the agreement takes important steps towards re-globalization, he said.

Speaking of China's role in the re-globalization process, Ossa said that China is a supporter of the multilateral trading system and also of globalization.

China has benefited from participating in the multilateral trading system and has achieved spectacular economic growth, lifting millions of people out of poverty, thereby giving hope to developing countries around the world, he added.
Three and a half years after the onset of the pandemic, enrollment losses are still hampering public schools, who depend largely on student counts to sustain their budgets and pay their staff. Data published in May 2023 by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) show that nationwide public school enrollments fell by 3 percentaround 1.4 million studentsin the first year of the pandemic and remained at that lower level in the 20212022 school year. While national figures for the 20222023 school year aren't available yet, state-level data from California, Illinois, New York, and others show public school rolls still trending downward.

At this point, there's every indication that the initial public school enrollment shocks from the pandemic won't rebound any time soon. Educators need to be prepared for a new normal where school choice programs are widespread, families are increasingly choosing options outside of traditional public schools, and public school spending has to be reined in to serve smaller student populations.

Several factors explain why public school student populations are shrinking. Parents were dissatisfied with the prolonged periods of online learning and forced masking at their schools during the pandemic, and the negative effects on students of keeping schools closed have been well-documented. One analysis from the Associated Press found that from 2019 to 2022, "the average student lost more than half a school year of learning in math and nearly a quarter of a school year in reading." Many of the deep-blue districts that kept schools closed the longest paid the biggest price for that decision, in terms of both enrollment losses and academic backsliding.

Meanwhile, the private education market seems to be booming. According to a study published in February 2022 by the Urban Institute, the pandemic exodus of students from public schools coincided with a sustained increase in private schooling and homeschooling. The 33 states (plus D.C.) with available data saw a more than 4 percent enrollment jump at private schools between fall 2019 and fall 2021which is unsurprising, given that private schools returned to in-person learning much more quickly than public schools did.

The private education market is also evolving away from traditional classroom formats. The same Urban Institute study found that the 21 states (plus D.C.) with available data saw a more than 30 percent increase in homeschooling in the same timeframe. "Microschools"tiny private schools that operate in nontraditional settings such as libraries and churcheshave also grown substantially. Mike McShane of the proschool choice group EdChoice told The Wall Street Journal last month that microschools now likely serve between one and two million students.

If public school enrollment isn't rebounding after the pandemic waned, that's a sign that families are largely sticking with these new learning settings. This momentum will likely continue thanks to the flurry of school choice programs that were either adopted or expanded in the 2021, 2022, and 2023 state legislative sessions.

There is another critical piece behind the decline in public school enrollment that shouldn't be overlooked. NCES projections of stagnating and declining school-age populations in many of the nation's large and coastal states actually predate both the pandemic and the recent surge of school choice. These two factors seem to have accelerated population changes that many school systems were going to soon confront anyway.

Unfortunately, public school systems have a poor track record of reining in spending and staffing when student populations decline. States that already had declining enrollment before the pandemicplaces like California, Illinois, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusettshave invariably kept hiring more staff rather than making reductions and are spending at record-high rates per student.

Even now, public schools are refusing to deal with the financial effects of their pandemic-era student losses. Rather than using strong state tax revenues and billions of federal stimulus dollars to gently pare down budgets, some of the biggest enrollment losers, such as New York City Public Schools and Los Angeles Unified School District, have used their funds to stave off budget cuts altogether.

Those extra federal funds will be drying up soon, and public schools will soon face reality. Between the pandemic, school choice, and long-term population shifts, they will finally have to exercise some fiscal restraint.

The post Public Schools Must Face the Reality of Shrinking Enrollment appeared first on Reason.com.
Heartbreaking video left an animal shelter worried sick about a puppy  then came good news, the North Carolina rescue organization said.

A camera reportedly captured the pup being thrown from the window of a vehicle, even though the PAWS Animal Shelter gate was open at the time. The shelter in a social media post shared what appeared to be stills from the video, including one showing an animal suspended in the air with its paws up.

We wish the person that did this would have done the right thing and drove on through the gates so we could assist them rather than slinging this poor innocent dog out the window, the shelter, located in the mountain town of Bryson City, wrote Sept. 8 on Facebook.

In the days that followed, the rescue organization left out food and used game cameras in their search for the missing dog. Then on Sept. 12, officials shared a heartwarming update.

The small dog, now named Apollo, was found safe and brought in to receive care, the shelter said.

Hes malnourished, loaded down with fleas and parasites, PAWS wrote on Facebook as it shared photos of the adorable pup. Has some small abrasions and two small fractures but considering what hes been through hes doing awesome!

The announcement left dozens of social media users happy about Apollos rescue. That might not come as a surprise, as the shelter said he seemed to have gained a fan club during his ordeal.

PAWS told WLOS it now plans to care for Apollo for a few months until he can go up for adoption. The shelter also said a suspect, who wasnt identified in the news report, faces consequences tied to the video.

I know that the magistrate did the two charges on him: abandonment of an animal and cruelty to animals, Beth Cline, executive director of the shelter, told WLOS.

PAWS, located roughly 65 miles west of Asheville, didnt immediately share additional information with McClatchy News on Sept. 14.

Sweetheart dog was put out with the trash, NC photo shows. Now, he has a new home

Suitcase spotted moving along North Carolina highway leads to odd animal rescue
Russia and North Korea have been warned they will pay a price for amy weapons deals between the two nations  with Vladimir Putin said to have have accepted an invitation for a second summit with Kim Jong-un.

Western nations  and neigbours of both Moscow and Pyongyang  have expressed deep concern about how a revived Russia-North Korea access could bolster Putins war machine in Ukraine and provide Kim with satellite and missile technology. With both leaders becoming increasingly isolated on the world stage, they have been forced to turn to each other. Putin is after ammuition and weaponry for his forces to use in Ukraine, given the number of artillery shells and missiles they have expended during the 18-month invasion, while Kim will be looking to parlay that need into help with Pyongyangs own satellite and nuclear programmes.

South Koreas National Security Council (NSC) urged the two nations to not trade weapons, while saying that there would be consequences for violating any UN santions. The government said that with any actions that threaten our security by North Korea and Russia violating [UN] Security Council resolutions, there will be a price to pay, it said.

The NSC was holding the meeting in the wake of a summit on Wednesday in Russias far east. During those diacussions, Putin offered to support North Koreas UN-sanctioned satellite launch programme, while KIm was full of bombastic language and posturing  saying that Russia had Pyongyangs full backing in its sacred invasion of neighbour Ukraine.

Both Russian and North Korean state media said on Thursday that an invitation for Putin to visit North Korea was made during the discussions  reporting in the same sycophantic tone in which the summit was conducted. "At the end of the reception, Kim Jong-un courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK at a convenient time," Pyongyangs KCNA said, referring to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, North Korea's formal name. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Putin "gratefully" accepted the invite and that Russias foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, would travel to Pyongyang in October. Since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Putin has rarely travelled abroad.

Kim was expected to tour a Russian plant that builds fighter jets and visit the country's Pacific Fleet before he returns with his armoured train to North Korea, but his exact whereabouts remained uncertain on Thursday.

No timeline for their next meeting has been set, with Putin accepting the invititation to travel to North Korea at a convenient time, according to state media.

The two leaders exchanged gifts at the beginning of their meeting on Wednesday, according to North Koreas KCNA news agency, including rifiles. The North Korean leader  said to be a car enthusiast  had a ride in Putins Russian-made limousine.

Mr Kim said their bilateral ties have reached a new level with their meeting, and expressed his willingness to foster stable, future-oriented relations for the next 100 years.

The two leaders, both facing crippling sanctions from the international community, met for talks running over four hours. The US State Department saying that they will not hesitate to impose additional sanctions on Moscow and Pyongyang if any weapons deal ensues.

Their meeting at Vostochny Cosmodrome, suggsted North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is seeking Russian help in developing military reconnaissance satellites. (AP)

It was "troubling" that Russia is discussing cooperation with North Korea on programmes that would violate UN Security Council sanctions, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said after the summit.

James OBrien, head of the Office of Sanctions Coordination at the US State Department, said Russia was scraping the bottom of the barrel looking for help because its having trouble sustaining its military. OBrien said a deal would lead the US to identify the individuals and the financial mechanisms used to at least limit their ability to be effective.

Two leaders agreed to meet again for talks on their military cooperation (via REUTERS)

Russia is preparing for an extended war in Ukraine and it is unable to meet the necessary industrial capacity, said James Nixey, director of the Russia and Eurasia programme at Chatham House, a London-based think-tank.

In return, Pyongyang is likely seeking to get food and missile technology from Moscow, a relatively easy gift for the Kremlin, Nixey said.

We express our deep concern and regret that despite repeated warnings from the international community, North Korea and Russia discussed military cooperation issues, including satellite development, during their summit, said Lim Soo-suk, South Koreas Foreign Ministry spokesperson.Any science and technology cooperation that contributes to nuclear weapons and missile development, including satellite systems that involve ballistic missile technologies, runs against U.N. Security Council resolutions, he added.Lim also pointed out that Kims delegation in Russia includes several people sanctioned by the Security Council over involvement in illicit North Korean weapons development activities, including Korean Peoples Army Marshal Ri Pyong Chol and Jo Chun Yong, a ruling party official who handles munitions policies. Lim said Moscow should realise there will be very negative impacts on its relations with Seoul if it proceeds with military cooperation with North Korea.

Additional reporting by agencies
Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has convened a meeting of the Federation Council on 14 September to discuss Russia's relations with its closest allies and its dialogue with countries far abroad.

Source: pro-Kremlin news agency TASS

Quote: "We have several issues on the agenda, they concern the development of relations with our closest neighbours and allies, and we will also talk about ensuring Russia's interests in relations with countries far abroad."

Details: Sergey Naryshkin , director of the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service, was the first to report to Putin.

Reminder:

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin met with his North Korean counterpart Kim Jong Un on 13 September at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Russian Far East to conduct talks.

News emerged on 14 September that Alexander Lukashenko, Putins ally and the self-proclaimed president of Belarus, was flying to meet Putin.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has convened a meeting of Russia's Security Council to discuss ties with Moscow's allies and neighbors, the TASS state news agency reported on Sept. 14.

As the Kremlin leadership met to "ensure Russia's interests" in ties with foreign partners, relations with some of Russia's partners have been souring recently.

Armenia, which traditionally used its relationship with Russia to counterbalance its Azerbaijani rivals and their Turkish allies, is losing confidence in Moscow's influence in the Caucasus.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said in an interview with Politico that "Russia's catastrophic invasion of Ukraine means Armenia can no longer rely on Moscow as a guarantor of its security.

According to Pashinyan, Russian peacekeepers in Nagorno-Karabakh failed to prevent the escalating humanitarian crisis as the Kremlin's focus shifted to the war against Ukraine and to maintaining amicable relations with Turkey.

Amid the reports of a new Azerbaijani army buildup, the Armenian military launched the Eagle Partner 2023 drills together with the U.S., scheduled to last between Sept. 11 and Sept. 20.

Read also: How Russia loses allies, influence amid its aggression against Ukraine

Russia's lackluster performance in Ukraine has also shaken its position on the international scene, making major players such as Turkey, India, and even China play both sides.

Instead, Putin has been forced to rely increasingly more on rogue states such as North Korea, Eritrea, Iran, Syria, and Belarus.

Russia recently hosted North Korea's dictator Kim Jong-Un, allegedly to discuss cooperation in missile and space technology.

However, Washington believes that another reason for the visit was Putin's desire to secure North Korean arms supplies to bolster the floundering invasion of Ukraine.

On Sept. 15, Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko is scheduled to arrive in Russia to reportedly discuss "the international agenda and regional issues," as well as economic issues like "joint efforts in import substitution."

The news of Lukashenko's visit comes after the European Parliament adopted a resolution on Sept. 14, which calls for Europe to apply the same sanctions against Belarus as it currently does against Russia.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Vladimir Putin gifted a cosmonauts glove and a rifle to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un during his visit to Russia, which appeared to end early.

Dmitry Peskov , the Kremlin spokesman, said he wasnt sure how long the North Korean delegation would stay in Russia but there would not be any more meetings between Putin and Kim.

This is their prerogative, he said. We appreciated the visit itself. It was timely, useful and constructive.

Putin and other senior Russian officials showed Kim around the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the far east of Russia on Wednesday. News agencies had reported that the two leaders would also tour a nearby arms factory and inspect the Pacific Fleet moored at Vladivostok but these tours appear to have been cancelled.

Vladimir Putin gifted the North Korean dictator a used cosmonaut glove and rifle at a visit to the Vostochny Cosmodrome - STR/KCNA VIA KNS/AFP via Getty Images

Instead, Putin hosted a teleconference with his security council and flew to Sochi to meet with Alexander Lukashenko, the Belarusian leader. There has been no information on Kims movements.

Putins gifts to Kim of the used cosmonaut glove and the rifle were part of a major Russian charm offensive around the North Korean leaders first trip to Russia since 2019.

It wants to secure more ammunition for its war in Ukraine, although Kyiv has said that North Korea has been supplying Russia with artillery shells for the past month and a half.

No deals were announced during the trip but Mr Peskov said that it had been very, very constructive and that there would be a follow-up trip to North Korea next month by Sergei Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, and then another by Putin at an unnamed date.

This was confirmed by North Koreas state news agency, which also said that Kims trip had boosted friendship and relations.

Best quotes from Kim Jong-un and Putin

Putin accepted the invitation with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history and tradition of the Russia-DPRK friendship, it said.

Putin last visited North Korea in July 2000, seven months after taking over as Russias president.

Secrecy and high security have cloaked Kims first trip outside North Korea since the global coronavirus pandemic. Analysts said that Kim, who travelled into Russia on his armoured train, was looking for joint space technology programmes and food aid in return for ammunition.

Russian propaganda channels have crowed about Kims visit, describing it as a major diplomatic success.

Its simply incredible, said Olga Skabeyeva, one of the Kremlins favourite propagandists. Our friendship with North Korea is a strike against Wall Street.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
Covering a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un might best be described as a caption contest: The two held what the Kremlin called very substantive discussions on Wednesday, but beyond a few photo opportunities, we still have very little idea what went on behind closed doors.

Putin and Kim shook hands at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russias Amur Region; the North Korean leader got a lift in Putins Russian-made Aurus limousine; and Kim raised a toast to his counterpart, promising Russia would punish evil forces  dictator-speak that appeared to endorse Putins ghastly, grinding war of attrition against Ukraine.

But the two sides held no press conference and issued no communique. No deals were publicly announced. Figuring out the real takeaway from the summit in Russias Far East is going to be a challenge, even though the global stakes are quite high.

Back in July, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu went to Pyongyang with an apparent shopping list. After a year and a half of high-intensity combat in Ukraine, Russias ammunition stocks have been heavily depleted, and US officials warned that North Korea and Russia were mulling potential deals to replenish supplies for Moscows war on Ukraine. North Korea has a substantial arsenal on the Korean peninsula.

If this is whats being hammered out in Russia  and we have seen no proof thus far that such a deal has been agreed  it would represent Pyongyangs entry into a contest with the industrial bases of US and NATO members, which have been incrementally but steadily providing Ukraine with the ammunition it needs to slug it out with Russia. Its a life-or-death race, with Putin apparently counting on support waning for Ukraine as the US enters a presidential election season.

And theres potential of something in return for Pyongyang. Kims regime is heavily isolated: Multiple rounds of sanctions have targeted North Korea over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Even Russia has signed on to North Korean sanctions in the past.

But Putin appears to be extending a potential lifeline to Kim as his own government comes under sanction for the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, apparently dangling the carrot of access to Russian technology.

On a visit to the cosmodrome, a reporter asked Putin whether Russia would help North Korea launch its own satellites and rockets  to which Putin responded, Thats exactly why we came here.

The leader of North Korea shows great interest in space, in rocketry, and they are trying to develop space. Well show our new objects, Putin said.

Kims interest in shiny objects may sound somewhat innocuous. But the Kremlin leaders phrasing calls to mind the old joke credited to the comedian Mort Sahl about Wernher von Braun, the German rocket scientist who pioneered Nazi Germanys ballistic missile technology during World War II: He aimed for the stars, but sometimes he hit England.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russia's President Vladimir Putin talk during a tour, in Russia, on September 13. - KCNA/Reuters

Von Brauns contribution to missile technology and to the US space program is well documented. His work paved the way for both space exploration as well as the development of the intercontinental ballistic missile, capable of lofting nuclear weapons across the globe.

So we are still dealing with a major unknown when it comes to a potential technology exchange between North Korea and Russia. The US believes Pyongyang has already been a player in the Ukraine war, providing the Russian mercenary group Wagner with arms.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Wagner, dismissed the allegation as nothing more than gossip and speculation before he died when his plane fell out of the sky last month.

If Russia is handing over this launch technology to North Korea, then, the world may potentially be witnessing the wider global fallout of Europes largest land war since 1945. And the convergence of two pariah states may be playing out in unexpected and dangerous ways.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Putin fears an arms deal with Kim Jong Un could threaten his sanction-evasion schemes, war experts say.

But he said there are "opportunities" for cooperation despite the "current rules".

Russia has gotten better at evading sanctions with new trade routes and loopholes, experts say.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is worried that an arms deal with North Korea could put Russia's sanction-evasion schemes in jeopardy, experts say.

According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), Putin is likely trying to cast his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Vladivostok as "neutral" out of fear that a possible trade deal could trigger a new wave of Western sanctions.

Putin met his North Korean counterpart on Tuesday in a likely effort to seek a weapons deal with North Korea, with the Russian army running out of ammunition and other equipment, US officials told The New York Times last week.

The meeting between the two leaders came amid "increased international scrutiny of Russian sanctions evasion," the ISW said.

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year, Western countries have been imposing sanctions on Russia to further weaken its economy and war chest, which have had "hard tangible effects," according to the EU's foreign policy chief.

Josep Borrell, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, recently cited Russia's financial strain and its degrading industrial and technological capacity as evidence that sanctions are working.

But researchers from the Atlantic Council noted that Russia has become better at evading sanctions through elaborate schemes, allowing it to import some US-made technology to make weapons.

Neighboring states, online retailers, and a network of fake companies have allowed the Kremlin to keep an ongoing supply of missiles, according to reports.

The EU and the US recently expanded bans on dual-use and high-tech goods and technology to third countries that could ship the goods to Russia.

The ISW cited a Russian media report that said that after the meeting, Putin stated that Russia continues to comply with restrictions on military-technical cooperation with North Korea while noting that within the "framework of the current rules, there are opportunities."

Read the original article on Business Insider
The United States is concerned about the deepening of military cooperation between Russia and North Korea amid the meeting of presidents Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un , which took place the day before.

Source: European Pravda, citing Matthew Miller, the Spokesperson for the US Department of State.

Details: "We havent seen the full manifestation of this meeting yet or what the full outcomes of this meeting will be, but when you see the two  when you see Kim Jong-un vowing to provide full, unconditional support for Russias so-called "sacred fight" to defend its security interests, which of course is not what its doing with respect to the war in Ukraine, that of course is troubling," Miller said.

A representative of the State Department says that the US has reason to believe that Putin and Kim Jong Un discussed military supplies.

However, he emphasised that the fact that Russia is asking for help from the DPRK shows how the war unleashed against Ukraine is developing for the Kremlin.

"A year and a half ago Vladimir Putin launched this war thinking he was going to restore the glory of the Russian empire, failed in all of his maximalist, imperialist aims, and now a year and a half later, after losing tens of thousands of Russian soldiers and spending billions and billions of dollars, here he is begging Kim Jong Un for help," Miller said.

He added that the US would "without hesitation" introduce sanctions against the Russian Federation and North Korea.

Background:

Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin met on 13 September at the Vostochny [Eastern] Cosmodrome. On the day of Kim's arrival in the Russian Federation, North Korea launched two ballistic missiles near its eastern coast.

The United States threatened to aggressively apply existing sanctions against Pyongyang and introduce new ones if North Korea provided weapons to Moscow for its war in Ukraine.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
The Montreal Biodome's scarlet macaw named Bouton "will be deported to the Toronto Zoo next Friday after she only spoke English during a government inspection," The Beaverton reported in July 2013. The outlet quoted a government official as saying that the bird "asked for crackers, not craquelins," violating Quebec's laws requiring French in the workplace.

None of that actually happened, of course; The Beaverton is to Canadians what The Onion is to Americans. Though the story of Bouton was "a spoof," The Economist reported, believers were still "shocked" by it. Such is Quebec's reputation for zealously defending the primacy of the French language.

Montreal, Canada's most bilingual city, is a place where English and French coexist easily. When you approach a bagel shop or poutine hideout, you'll most likely be greeted with "bonjour, hi"a choose-your-own-adventure invitation that recognizes the linguistic diversity of the colorful city. Teenagers on the streets flip constantly between French and English, weaving in American slang.

This linguistic diversity is, in many ways, something the provincial government has tried for decades to stave off in attempts to preserve spoken French. Under British rule in the 1800s, French Canadians lost much of their political power and language rights. They eventually became the linguistic minority in Canada. Beginning in the 1960s, the sovereigntist Parti Quebecois was created and the Front de liberation du Quebec, a militant separatist group, carried out terrorist acts. The so-called Quiet Revolution of that decade saw government secularization, the creation of a welfare state, and pushes for Quebecois independence.

The 1977 Charter of the French Language established French as the province's official language and laid out a huge set of regulations to enforce the use of French in "work, instruction, communication, commerce and business." According to Quebec's Ministry of Culture and Communications, language measures are "all aimed at the same goal: maximizing the French language's chances of thriving on a continent inhabited by nearly three hundred million English speakers."

It's a noble goal, and a personal one. My family goes back hundreds of years in Quebec. I have countless childhood memories of family gatherings in the countryside, all the chatter over hearty farm food in French. Losing your language cuts the central cord holding you to your ancestors, and Quebecois French is no different in that respect.

But strict linguistic regulation is counterproductive, especially if the goal is a happy and cohesive population. It would be impossible to regulate how 8.8 million Quebecers speak without engaging in some silly and strange battles. The government has tried to ban that favorite Montrealer greeting, "bonjour, hi," including at private businesses. A British-themed restaurant in Montreal was cited for using the term fish and chips on its menu and hanging a "gents" sign on a bathroom door. A manager "opening a newly-renovated [Adidas] store spoke a few apologetic words in Frenchthen switched entirely to 'cooler' English," reported the Montreal Gazette, causing a huge stir. The provincial premier even denounced the episode in the National Assembly.

Regulations hang over every area of public life. Businesses with 25 or more employees must register with the Office Quebecois de la Langue Francaise (OQLF), or Quebec Board of the French Language, to certify that they use French throughout the workplace. An employer may not lay off a worker because he speaks only French. Radio stations must abide by French-language song quotas. Concerned citizens can report violations of the Charter of the French Language online or by phone.

The highly publicized incidents of linguistic conflict reflect disturbing trends. A poll conducted for Le Journal de Montreal in 2018 indicated that one in two Anglophone respondents aged 18 to 35 saw relations between Anglophones and Francophones as contentious. Between 1971 and 2021, some 600,000 Anglophones left Quebec for other provinces. A number of large businesses likewise left for greener pastures (ahem, Toronto). "Bonjour, hi" might be an olive branch between Quebec's Anglos and Francos, but the peace is becoming harder to keep.

Language policy in Quebec is strict and getting stricter. The controversial Bill 96, passed in May 2022, further regulates businesses and individuals. Companies with 25 or more workers may have to submit regular reports to the government on their use of French. If the government receives a complaint that a workplace isn't using French, it can trigger an investigation, "and inspectors can search and seize documents without a warrant," noted Politico. Executives at more than 150 companies sent a letter to Premier Francois Legault warning that the law could seriously damage Quebec's economy and scare away investors.

As for Bouton the parrot, reality can truly be just as strange as fiction. In 1996, a customer at a pet shop in Napierville, Quebec, complained that a parrot named Peek-a-Boo spoke only English. The customer even threatened to file a complaint with the OQLF, according to the bird's owner, Francesca Barron. The complaint was never filed, and, per the Montreal Gazette, the parrot never did learn French.

Faux Pas

1977

With the passage of the Charter of the French Language, Kentucky Fried Chicken had to give up its English label. It became Poulet Frit Kentucky in Quebec.

2000

A former member of the Front de liberation du Quebec, a far-left separatist group, carried out a series of firebombings against several Second Cup cafe locations because the Canada-based chain's name was in English. Second Cup added the words Les cafes to its signs soon after.

2013

Quebec's language-enforcement agency notified Massimo Lecas, owner of the Montreal-based Buonanotte, that his restaurant was violating the charter. Officials pointed to the Italian words pasta, calamari, and antipasto on Lecas' menu, saying he would need to replace them with French words to conform to provincial language law. Although the government insisted it was just responding to citizen complaints, the incident sparked such backlash and publicity that it came to be known as pastagate.

2014

The Quebec Superior Court ruled that major retailers weren't violating the charter if their storefront signs featured trademark names in languages other than French. The plaintiffs included Best Buy, Costco, Walmart, and Old Navy.

2021

A new policy mandated that only music by Quebecois artists may be played in provincial government buildings and on government-run phone lines. "The time for royalty-free elevator music is over," said Quebec Culture Minister Nathalie Roy.

The post Quebec's Language Restrictions Limit Freedom of Expression appeared first on Reason.com.
MEXICO CITY (AP)  Supposed aliens landed in Mexico's Congress but there were no saucer-shaped UFOs hovering over the historic building or bright green invaders like those seen in Hollywood films.

The specter of little green men visited Mexico City as lawmakers heard testimony Tuesday from individuals suggesting the possibility that extraterrestrials might exist. The researchers hailed from Mexico, the United States, Japan and Brazil.

The session, unprecedented in the Mexican Congress, took place two months after a similar one before the U.S. Congress in which a former U.S. Air Force intelligence officer claimed his country has probably been aware of "non-human" activity since the 1930s.

More: Juarez UFO was of 'nonhuman origin,' Mexico ufologist Jaime Maussan claims

Mexican journalist Jose Jaime Maussan presented two boxes with supposed mummies found in Peru, which he and others consider "non-human beings that are not part of our terrestrial evolution."

The shriveled bodies with shrunken, warped heads left those in the chamber aghast and quickly kicked up a social media fervor.

"It's the queen of all evidence," Maussan claimed. "That is, if the DNA is showing us that they are non-human beings and that there is nothing that looks like this in the world, we should take it as such."

But he warned that he didn't want to refer to them as "extraterrestrials" just yet.

A journalist and ufologist in Mexico presented some "non-human" remains found in a dynamite mine in Peru.

The apparently desiccated bodies date back to 2017 and were found deep underground in the sandy Peruvian coastal desert of Nazca. The area is known for gigantic enigmatic figures scraped into the earth and seen only from a birds-eye-view. Most attribute the Nazca Lines to ancient indigenous communities, but the formations have captured the imaginations of many.

In 2017, Maussan made similar claims in Peru, and a report by the country's prosecutor's office found that the bodies were actually "recently manufactured dolls, which have been covered with a mixture of paper and synthetic glue to simulate the presence of skin."

The report added that the figures were almost certainly human-made and that "they are not the remains of ancestral aliens that they have tried to present". The bodies were not publicly unveiled at the time, so it is unclear if they are the same as those presented to Mexico's congress.

This handout picture released by the press office of the Mexican Congress shows Mexican journalist and ufologist Jaime Maussan speaking Tuesday at the Mexican Congress.

On Wednesday, Julieta Fierro, researcher at the Institute of Astronomy at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, was among those to express skepticism, saying that many details about the figures "made no sense."

Fierro added that the researchers' claims that her university endorsed their supposed discovery were false, and noted that scientists would need more advanced technology than the X-rays they claimed to use to determine if the allegedly calcified bodies were "non-human."

"Maussan has done many things. He says he has talked to the Virgin of Guadalupe," she said. "He told me extraterrestrials do not talk to me like they talk to him because I don't believe in them."

El Paso history: Flying Saucer Sighting Reported By Eight Crosby School Students in 1964

The scientist added that it seemed strange that they extracted what would surely be a "treasure of the nation" from Peru without inviting the Peruvian ambassador.

Congressman Sergio Gutierrez Luna of the ruling Morena party, made it clear that Congress has not taken a position on the theses put forward during the more than three-hour session.

Believing or not was up to each member of the legislative body, but those who testified had to swear an oath to tell the truth.

Archives: 2010: Chicken deaths spark talk of Chupacabras

Gutierrez Luna stressed the importance of listening to "all voices, all opinions" and said it was positive that there was a transparent dialogue on the issue of extraterrestrials.

In the U.S. in July, retired Maj. David Grusch alleged that the U.S. is concealing a longstanding program that retrieves and reverse engineers unidentified flying objects. The Pentagon has denied his claims.

Grusch's highly anticipated testimony before a House Oversight subcommittee was the U.S. Congress' latest foray into the world of UAPs  or "unidentified aerial phenomena," which is the official term the U.S. government uses instead of UFOs.

Democrats and Republicans in recent years have pushed for more research as a national security matter due to concerns that sightings observed by pilots may be tied to U.S. adversaries.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Supposed aliens presented in Mexico's Congress. Scientists call fraud
There will be an opening for the Senate in Utah. Expect a mad dash to fill it.

Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) announced on Wednesday that hes not running for a second term, citing a need for a new generation of leaders.

If Romney ran, he would not have faced a clear path to reelection. The former Massachusetts governor and two-time presidential candidate faced heavy scrutiny from members of his own party for being a critic of former President Donald Trump. (Romney made sure to give Trump one more shove in his Wednesday announcement, saying the former president isnt effectively leading the Republican Party.)

Primary challengers had already begun lining up against Romney earlier this year, including state House Speaker Brad Wilson and Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs.



Wilson had formed an exploratory committee for the seat while Romney was deciding on his future, and boasted over the summer of raising over $2.2 million in his first two months. Around half of that came from a personal loan, but demonstrates that he could self-fund to differentiate himself from a likely crowded primary field. (On Wednesday, Wilson said stay tuned after Romneys announcement.) Staggs had a much smaller war chest, bringing in around $220,000 during his first month as a candidate.

Other candidates are likely to enter the fray after Romneys announcement.

Statewide open races in Utah are wild, said Suzy Matheson, a former delegate for the state GOP. Anybody who has the slightest bit of name recognition comes out in full force.

The Senate race will be a test for the Utah Republican Party. The activists who make up the state party lean conservative  and were no fans of Romneys. Political observers in the state note that Wilson has taken some moderate stances. Meanwhile, Staggs has earned the endorsement from youth conservative group Turning Point Action.

Utah Republicans rejected Becky Edwards, a moderate Republican and Trump critic, earlier this month in the special election primary for red-leaning UT-02. Edwards campaign did not respond to a message on Wednesday asking if shes thinking about a Senate run. But when asked if she was thinking about running for another office before Romneys announcement, she previously told POLITICO that her plan is to stay engaged with our supporters and people around the state and country who feel similarly and really aligned with the same principles and desires.

Plenty of other potential GOP candidates are being discussed. Jason Perry, the director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah, said hell be keeping his eye on Rep. John Curtis; Boyd Matheson, a former chief of staff to Utah Sen. Mike Lee and radio host who skipped a bid for the seat in 2018; and Brad Bonham, an entrepreneur and member of the governor's Office of Economic Opportunity. He also mentioned former state House Speaker Greg Hughes, who later told Fox 13 that he wasn't interested.

Earlier this year, a Curtis spokesperson said the congressman doesnt think it makes sense to run for Senate, but he certainly didnt rule it out on Wednesday. Rep. Blake Moore (R-Utah) told Axios that hes not planning on anything and is in a good spot right now.

A poll conducted in July from nonpartisan pollster Noble Predictive Insights found that more than half of voters would be undecided if Romney wasnt in the race. In this scenario, Attorney General Sean Reyes  a Trump ally that has long been floated as a potential Senate candidate  was the only candidate who earned double-digit support. But Reyes on Wednesday said that hell be running for reelection instead of for the Senate.

Romneys decision not to run again also could shape the contours of next years gubernatorial race. Republican Gov. Spencer Cox, a fellow Trump critic, is running for reelection (although that hasnt stopped speculation from some that he could make a Senate run). With an open Senate seat on the line, some potential Cox challengers could make moves to run for Congress instead. Former Rep. Jason Chaffetz (R) last month said he was considering a gubernatorial run, although he did not completely rule out a Senate bid.

This story first appeared in POLITICO Pro's Morning Score newsletter. Sign up for POLITICO Pro.
A Tri-Cities labor union has made public a second incident of hate speech targeting Pascos only Black city councilman.

Russell Shjerven, secretary-treasurer of the Teamster Local Union No. 839, says its proof a racist message left last month at a vandalized campaign sign for Councilman Irving Brown Sr. wasnt an isolated incident.

It was very much a shocker to me, said Brown. Its disappointing and its very hurtful.

The anonymous letter with racist comments was sent to the city of Pasco in January and was discussed by city council members at a Jan. 17 closed-door executive session, Brown confirmed.

The letter writer claimed the Republican party of Pasco will not let a BLACK serve going forward, they would block the upcoming election and were building and training a team to apply in numbers to overturn the BLACK current council member.

Brown was appointed a year ago to a vacant seat on the council and hopes to be elected in November to a full term. City council positions are non-partisan posts.

Irving L. Brown Sr.

The writer signed the letter from Pasco, WA Republicans.

But Franklin County Republican Party chairman Stephen Bauman told the Tri-City Herald the party had nothing to do with the letter.

It is not from our party and has nothing to do with our party, Bauman told the Tri-City Herald. Im sorry that Mr. Brown has been treated this way, and I hope whoever wrote this letter is exposed and prosecuted.

Local 839 held a community rally earlier this week in response to the letter, to show support for Browns reelection campaign and to promote the creation of a social justice campaign to prove that the city of Pasco is an inclusive community that does not support racism.

The event was also promoted by Tri-City Democrats.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Pasco racist messages

This is the second incident of anonymous racist messages targeting Brown since he joined the council.

A couple weeks ago Brown found a note next to one of his vandalized campaign signs along Road 68 that read, No N****** for Dist-3.

This is unacceptable, Brown said then in a Facebook Live video. This type of behavior is gross and totally unnecessary. Pasco, dont allow this.

Incumbent Pasco City Councilman Irving Brown Sr. says hes the victim of hate speech while campaigning for election this year. Brown said a racist message was left near a political sign that was vandalized. He is the only Black candidate running for Pasco council.

His opponent in the general election this November, Leo Perales, who is Latino, also condemned the racist message.

Days later, Pasco community members and elected officials from around the Tri-Cities gathered at the Local 839 hall to show support for Brown and to call on local leaders to disavow the hateful comments and broader discrimination.

Now, the union  which is also backing Browns campaign  has made public the anonymous letter sent to the city nine months ago.

Local 839 did not believe that this was an isolated incident as Mr. Brown has experienced significant discrimination and harassment since his appointment to the city council, Shjerven and union leaders said in a statement.

Union leaders also accused Pasco city officials of choosing to keep this letter a secret from the Pasco community and did not make it a part of the public record when they shared it in behind closed doors.

Brown said he didnt know about the letter until the executive session, and viewed it then as a someone whod gone rogue.

But after the incident involving the slur and his campaign sign, Brown said he and the union decided to go public with the letter.

This thing has escalated, Brown told the Herald, adding that his goal is to inform and engage ignorance... It doesnt matter what race, creed or color you are, we must stand together united to eradicate all types of racism.

Pasco city attorney Eric Ferguson declined to answer questions about the closed-door discussion under the Washingtons Open Public Meetings Act.

State law gives cities the power to meet in closed-door meetings for a limited number of reasons, which must be cited publicly before the meeting. The Jan. 17 meeting agenda included an executive session related to receiving and evaluating complaints or charges brought against a public officer or employee.

While I am not able to answer your questions related to this matter, the city council and the city of Pasco strives to comply with the requirements for executive sessions under the OPMA, Ferguson wrote in his reply to the Herald.

Racism has no place in our community

While the offensive letter did not include Browns name specifically, it did name three prominent Pasco Republicans  Bauman, as well as council members David Milne and Pete Serrano  after proclaiming: We have strong front-line help to get Republicans on the Pasco City Council.

Brown said he does not believe the letter is tied to either the Franklin County Republican Party nor his colleagues on the council.

Neither one of those three have disrespected me or treated me any different, Brown said. If they say theyre not associated with that, I have to take them at their word.

All three have denounced the racist message left at Browns campaign sign last month.

Mr. Brown, I wanted to speak loudly and clearly as the chairman of a political party, and as somebody that cares deeply for my community: Im sorry what happened to you and racism has no place in our community  in any form or any fashion, Bauman said at the Sept. 5 meeting.

Speaking to the Herald, Bauman called the Teamsters release of the letter this week suspicious and disappointing and said it was inciting frustration in the community just as people were beginning to heal.

Its really disappointing that someone is trying to stir this up in our community, he said.

Whoever wrote this letter tried to intentionally smear the names of local Republicans as well as the image of the citys only Black council member, Bauman said.
Entrepreneur and Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy called the indictment of Hunter Biden on gun charges Thursday a smokescreen.

Dont fall for it, Ramaswamy posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. This is a fig leaf designed to deflect attention away from the real problem: the Biden family is selling out U.S. foreign policy for their own familys private financial gain. Thats really whats wrong, and we must hold politicians in both major political parties when they use our foreign policy to enrich their family members.

President Bidens son now faces three gun-related charges brought by prosecutors in Delaware. According to court filings, the younger Biden faces two charges for failing to disclose drug use when purchasing a weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm while addicted to a controlled substance.

Ramaswamy also commented on the recent direction of House committees by Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) to open a formal impeachment inquiry into the president based on House Republican investigations into the Biden familys foreign business dealings and Hunters prosecution.

The impeachment inquiry initiated by the House against President Biden is a step in the right direction, but the public shouldnt fall for the trick of diverting attention away from the true problem, Ramaswamy said in the X post. Its also no accident that todays indictment comes at a moment when President Bidens own popularity within the Democratic Party is cratering.

I predict this is the first step for the Democrat Party managerial class to pressure Joe Biden out of the race, Ramaswamy continued. Biden will become a sacrificial pawn in service to the deep state that wants to keep power at all costs.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Ravenna Township man has been sentenced to more than four years in prison for illegally possessing firearms, as well as chemicals that can be used to manufacture methamphetamine, in July.

Michael J. Christians, 53, pleaded guilty last week to having weapons while under disability, aggravated possession of drugs  specifically meth  and illegal assembly or possession of chemicals to manufacture meth, all third-degree felonies, and fifth-degree felony unlawful possession of a dangerous ordnance, according to Portage County Common Pleas Court records.

Christians waived a presentencing investigation by the court's adult probation department and Judge Becky Doherty sentenced him to 4 years in prison. She also fined Christians $5,000 and ordered that he pay $217 in court costs. He has the option of paying off the debt by performing community service at $10 per hour.

Christians faced a maximum sentence of 10 years for the charges he pleaded guilty to and a maximum fine of $37,500, according to court records.

Christians' attorney did not return a phone call seeking comment.

Ravenna police said they stopped a vehicle driven by Christians for having a broken windshield and only one working brake light on Main Street during the afternoon July 9.

Police K-9 Drago indicated the possible presence of narcotics in the vehicle and it was searched and suspected meth and two firearms were found. Based on this and an interview with Christians, police obtained a search warrant of his state Route 14 home.

Police said they found numerous portable labs used to manufacture meth in smaller, quicker quantities, suspected meth, and a modified rifle reported stolen in Michigan in 2011.

The Portage County Sheriff's Office said trained sheriff's personnel were called in to clean up the meth labs, which contain toxic and potentially explosive chemicals that need to be handled with care.

According to complaints police filed in Portage County Municipal Court in Ravenna, 3.58 grans of suspected meth was found in Christian's possession and the weapons under disability charge was due to Christians is not being allowed to possess firearms because of alleged frequent use of illegal narcotics.

The weapons under disability charge includes a forfeiture specificationinvolving a 30-30-caliber rifle and a .25-caliber handgun. The dangerous ordnance charge includes a forfeiture specification for a second 30-30-caliber rile and silencer.

The firearms were ordered destroyed.

In a plea deal, additional charges in a grand jury indictment were dismissed, including second-degree felony illegal manufacture of drugs, which included a forfeiture specification for a rifle and handgun and a firearms specification, fourth-degree felony receiving stolen property, involving a firearm, and first-degree misdemeanor driving under suspension.

More: "No more drugs!" Marchers take a stand in Ravenna to address addiction

Reporter Jeff Saunders can be reached at jsaunders@recordpub.com.

This article originally appeared on Record-Courier: Ravenna Township man gets four-plus years for gun and drug offenses
Georgia drivers had a new culprit behind their afternoon traffic jam: 40,000 pounds of raw, frozen chickens.

The raw chicken covered a section of I-285 in Sandy Springs, which is around 15 miles north of Atlanta, following a crash at around 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13.

Photos and videos from local news outlets showed the mess.

A tractor-trailer carrying the raw meat hit a car on the interstate, Sandy Springs Police Department spokesperson Matthew McGinnis told McClatchy News. The crash caused a seven-car pileup  and 40,000 pounds of chicken to spill out across the road.

Sandy Springs police posted a traffic alert Wednesday on Twitter, now rebranded to X, to warn drivers about an overturned tractor trailer with a fuel spill.

I-285 EB at Northside Dr is shut down due to a 7 car wreck involving an overturned tractor trailer with a fuel spill. Find an alternate route. pic.twitter.com/YawUml6Zxq  Sandy Springs Police (@SandySprings_PD) September 13, 2023

It took three hours of cleaning up frozen chickens and the wreck itself, McGinnis said. The cleanup was lengthy because there was lots of debris scattered, he said.

At 9:25 p.m., Sandy Springs police posted on X that ALL lanes of I-285 were reopened.

There were some injuries in Wednesdays crash, McGinnis said, but none were life-threatening.

This isnt Georgias only chicken-related traffic accident to happen this summer.

In early July, around 30 miles northwest of where the Sept. 13 crash occurred, a truck carrying chicken guts spilled into a road in Cherokee County, as seen in a photo from the county sheriffs offices Facebook post. Just a few weeks earlier, a similar incident happened on a different road in the county.
(The Hill)  President Joe Biden s son Hunter Biden was indicted by prosecutors in Delaware on Thursday.

The court filings detail charges alleging Hunter Bidens failure to disclose drug use when seeking to buy a weapon (resulting in two separate charges), as well as for unlawful possession of a firearm while addicted to a controlled substance.

The indictment can be read below in its entirety.

Hunter-Biden-Indictment-1Download

The indictment does not list any tax crimes  a matter that would have been covered by the prior plea agreement that had Hunter Biden pleading guilty to two charges of willful failure to pay taxes.

Hunter Bidens attorney, Abbe Lowell, did not immediately respond to a request for comment nor did the White House.

The charges come the same week that House Republicans kicked off an impeachment inquiry into President Biden, who they allege improperly interfered in Ukraine in order to benefit his son as he served on the board of energy company Burisma.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
Like many school districts around the country, Howard County, Maryland, has a bus driver shortage. In response, the district contracted with a company called Zum, a Silicon Valley startup that promises to bring high-tech solutions to student transportation. Zum was supposed to cover almost half the districts bus routes, but somehow those promised solutions became major headaches: Thousands of students in the county public school system were late, werent picked up or dropped off, or were taken to the wrong places, buses on more than 20 routes were abruptly canceled, and parents were getting conflicting messages from Zum and the school district.

On Fridays episode of What Next: TBD, I spoke with Daniel Zawodny, who covers transportation for the Baltimore Banner, about how Zums tech is disrupting school transportation (and not in a good way). Our conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Lizzie OLeary: Its not surprising that a company like Zum emerged to try to bring tech to the world of school busing. Its a huge market, and districts across the country operate with a mix of public employees and contractors.

Daniel Zawodny: Zum was initially providing smaller transportation operations for different school districtsthings like transportation for children with special needsthen branching out and expanding into full-on yellow bus service. Theyve been operating in cities like Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and expanded to Chicago. They have maybe eight other cities that theyre expanding to this year, including Howard County.

Can you describe Howard County a little bit? Whats it like?

Howard County is a suburb pretty much halfway between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., and has been a very popular place for folks in the Baltimore area to move to. It has always had this reputation of really good schools, and as a result, property values are a little higher. Its generally considered tougher to buy a home there than, say, in certain parts of Baltimore County, or certainly in Baltimore City or other places.

Zum signed a $27 million contract to operate almost half the districts bus routes for three years, and promised to modernize the way schools provide transportation.

Zum describes the industry as antiquated, one that has not seen any change or disruption in a very long time. The company strives to infuse tech into student transportation to modernize it. Theyve been described online by some folks as Uber for kids.

Zum has a mobile app for parents and families that provides real-time GPS tracking for all of their buses. So, for example, a parent could check their phone to see that the bus is in the neighborhood and two stops away, and would know when to send their child out to the bus stop to catch the bus; they could also confirm that their child got on the bus at the end of the day.

All Zum buses have driver-facing cameras that use artificial intelligence to give the drivers a running safety score. For example, if a driver is doing rolling stops at stop signs, itll dock the driver for that rolling stop and say, Hey, youve done X number of rolling stops, and you need to work on that for your safety rating. In addition to the tech stuff, the buses are decked out with seat belts, and have pull-down harnesses for little kids who still need a car seat.

Zum also promotes sustainability, and says that its on-road fleet will be 100 percent electric by 2027.

The company sells itself on being more of a sustainable option. When I visited their bus yard, they had 250 brand-new yellow school buses on the yardand they were all diesel. So I asked, Well, if youre supposed to be fully electric by 2025, whyd you buy all these diesel buses? And they essentially said, Oh, theres always a market for them. Someone will buy them.

Do families like what theyre getting from Zum?

I spoke with a parent in San Francisco who shared with me that she loved the mobile app, that it was super convenient. She even said that her son, a fourth grader, would look at the mobile app while he was eating breakfast and he would track his bus and say, Mom, my bus is almost here; Ive got to get out to the stop soon.

I also connected with the director of transportation for the Oakland Public Schools system. They were using a couple different contractors and gave some smaller routes to Zum. Now, several years later, theyve transferred 100 percent of their service to Zum, and Zum is the sole provider of student transportation in Oaklands school district.

Despite getting rave reviews on the West Coast, its clear from your reporting that Zum overpromised and underdelivered in Howard County. What happened?

Zum assured me that they were going to have everything covered and be fully staffed for the first day of school. Then, after Monday morning, buses werent showing up. A message went out about the 20 cancellations. Buses showed up late. Parents noticed that the drivers didnt really seem to know where they were, where they were supposed to go, or where they were supposed to stop.

Other details started to come out about what was going on. Before school started, Zum actually had to fly 71 drivers in from Spokane and Seattle to handle these routes. There were reports of drivers fumbling with paper maps and not knowing where they were supposed to be driving, which was a safety concern, and reports of drivers driving the bus over grassy medians. There were reports of kids guiding the drivers on the bus and telling them where they were supposed to go and where they were supposed to stop.

We reached out to Zum for a statement. The companys CEO, Ritu Narayan, said, We know its impossible to state how hard this past week has been for the parents and students in Howard County. For that we apologize. Zums statement went on to say that theyre clear-eyed about a national and statewide driver shortage and said the company has managed to turn a 43 percent driver deficit in Howard County into nearly full coverage. Zum also said the school district had changed several routes just before the first day of school. Is that true?

Apparently, the school district had either changed up some of the routes or didnt have everything determined ahead of time and handed the routes to Zum on Saturday right before school on Monday. Zum didnt have time to digitize them and put them into their navigation software. So drivers from Spokane, Washington, were fumbling with paper maps, trying to figure out the bus routes on the first week of school.

Why did Howard choose Zum to take over a pretty large part of their transportation fleet?

Its not totally clear, and I dont think families in Howard County are satisfied with the official answer. Howard County has depended exclusively on private companies to take care of student transportation. At one point, maybe 20 years ago, there were as many as 50 different companies providing these services. Now, its down to about 21 or 22, but there are still a lot of different companies that are doing it, and a lot of them are smaller, locally owned businesses.

For the past couple years, there has been a shortage of bus drivers in Howard County, and officials estimate that they are around 80 to 100 drivers short. When asked why they selected Zum, they allude to the fact that Zum was really confident that they could fix the bus driver shortage and be fully staffed by the start of school, and that they could handle all the routes that they were bidding on. Officials also pointed to Zums competitive wages and benefits, and believed Zum was going to be able to fill these positions.

Unfortunately, it seems like Zum was just as susceptible to the driver shortage as other companies were.

What has the school district said?

I think both sides have accepted some degree of responsibility, and they are also passive-aggressively throwing each other under the bus. There have been instances where school officials have taken responsibility for this and said, This is on us and were so sorry that this happened, but they have also said, Hey, you got to talk to Zum about that. This was on them. Then Zum, which has also accepted some responsibility for this, says, Well, this is on the school system.

Where do things stand now? Getting a kid off to school is hard enough without not knowing how theyre going to get there.

There are students that are doing okaytheir buses are showing up and the students are getting to class on time. But some of the familiesthe ones on the original 20 routes that were canceledstill havent had their bus service restored. Weve talked to several parents who have formed on-the-go carpool groups and are taking turns getting kids to school, fitting as many kids as they can in their cars. And now more students also have to walk to school. On the second week of school, one teacher mentioned that the school is taking attendance later in the day than they usually do, so that these students who arrive late are counted as present for the day because its not their fault.

There are obviously a lot of good things that tech has done in schools, but it does make me wonder: Was this an industry that needed to be disrupted? Is this a place where technology has made an improvement?

It makes me think of my own experience riding Miss Glorias bus to elementary school every day. Miss Gloria was my neighborhoods bus driver for  I dont even know how long. My parents told me that she retired only a year or two ago. She didnt need a tablet to say whether or not the students that got on the bus were supposed to be there. She knew all of our names, she knew our parents, and she knew the route like the back of her hand. We didnt have confusion with bus numbers. I knew that when I got out of school, I just had to look for the bus with a brown piece of construction paper in the windowthat was the brown bus, and that was my bus to ride. It worked, so do we need all of this tech to improve the service?
Cryptocurrency has been a godsend for cybercriminals, enabling them to profit from ransomware, launder money, and move stolen funds internationally with impunity. In many cases, unless those criminals are careless or based in a country that takes policing cybercrime seriously, theres no way to get that money back once its gone. But U.S. law enforcement is now focused on stopping those illegal cryptocurrency transfers from occurring, rather than trying to deal with them after the fact.

These efforts have just been given a major boost. In August, a court in Texas ruled that the U.S. government could sanction not just cryptocurrency wallets or exchanges, but also an open-source cryptocurrency mixer called Tornado Cash that had been used to cloak more than $7 billion in illicit transactions since its founding in 2019. This is part of a larger U.S. strategy to prevent cryptocurrency-enabled cybercrimes by targeting the underlying cryptocurrency infrastructure that criminals rely ona strategy that represents a pretty significant departure from the governments earlier efforts.

In November 2018, the Treasury sanctioned digital currency wallet addresses for the first time as part of its measures directed at two Iranian individuals who helped convert extortion payments made as part of the SamSam ransomware attacks. But the Treasury quickly learned that sanctioning specific wallet addresses was not a terribly effective way of blocking payments to criminalsthey could set up new wallets, with new addresses, just as fast (in fact, much faster) than the Treasury could detect and sanction them.

While it was relatively easy for criminals to create new wallets, it wasnt as easy for them to find new exchanges to process their transactions and convert their stolen cryptocurrency to fiat currency. Many exchanges, especially in countries where cryptocurrency is regulated to some extent, keep records of the transactions they process, require that their customers provide them with some identification when they convert currency, or have limits on how much currency can be converted at one time.

However, there were still exchanges willing to do business with criminals. In September 2021, the Treasury Department sanctioned a cryptocurrency exchange called SUEX that was widely used by criminals to process transactions (according to the Treasurys analysis, more than 40 percent of SUEXs transactions were associated with illicit actors).

The Treasury then decided to go after the infrastructure that criminals use to cloak their funds and make them harder to trace. It turned its focus toward cryptocurrency mixers, which allow users to mix and intermingle their stolen funds in a way that makes it much more difficult to link specific cryptocurrency payments to a specific origin account or wallet. And so in August 2022, the Treasury announced that it would sanction its first mixer, Tornado Cash, which it had determined was heavily used by criminals, including the state-sponsored North Korean Lazarus Group responsible for the 2014 Sony Pictures breach and the 2017 WannaCry ransomware campaign, among many other high-profile cyberattacks.

But sanctioning a mixer protocol was not exactly the same as sanctioning a specific cryptocurrency wallet address or a particular exchange. Unlike an exchange, Tornado Cash was not a formal companyit was, essentially, some open-source code on GitHub that anyone could use to mix their cryptocurrency, and was loosely developed and maintained by a decentralized autonomous organizationalso called a DAOwhich security researcher Nicholas Weaver described as basically a corporation that doesnt bother to do the paperwork to gain the legal protections of a corporation.

When the Treasury Department announced the sanctions, Tornado Cash was immediately pulled down from GitHub. This alarmed not just cybercriminals but also some internet freedom advocates and cryptocurrency exchanges who were worried about the future of their industry and questioned whether the government was free to simply remove any cryptocurrency protocol it didnt like from the internet. Coinbase, a popular U.S. cryptocurrency exchange, even funded a lawsuit against the Treasury, challenging the sanctions on the grounds that a DAO couldnt be sanctioned because it wasnt a formal company, and arguing that removing the code from GitHub prevented people from making cryptocurrency donations and also constituted a First Amendment violation by forcing the deletion of online speech (in this case, code).

The Treasury tried to allay these concerns by clarifying that even though the sanctions forbade conducting transactions using Tornado Cash, they didnt prevent people from viewing or interacting with the code for the protocol. That clarification didnt satisfy everyone, especially since it came after the code had already been taken down. The Electronic Frontier Foundation, for example, advocated for the government to have said at the outset that its sanctions would not be applied to the open-source project hosted on GitHub and would instead only be applied to actual transactions, not the publication of the code itself.

But for Judge Robert Pitman, who ruled on the Coinbase-funded case against the Treasury, there was no First Amendment problem with the sanctions of Tornado Cash. For one thing, Pitman pointed out, people could still use other services to make donations to important political and social causes. And for another, the Treasury had already stated that its sanctions would not restrict interaction with the open-source code unless these interactions amount to a transaction. That meant that people could lawfully analyze the code and use it to teach cryptocurrency concepts, Pitman said, so long as they did not execute it and use it to conduct cryptocurrency transactions.

As for the argument that Tornado Cash couldnt be sanctioned because it was operated by a DAO rather than a centralized organization, Pitman pointed out that it wasnt terribly convincing given that the DAO was capable of doing many of the same things as a company, including placing job advertisements and paying contributors to the code base.

The Treasury has an uphill battle aheadCoinbases chief legal officer, Paul Grewal, has already said the company will support an appeal of Pitmans rulingbut the ruling is still a desperately needed win. Its a positive sign that the government is likely to have a fair bit of leeway when it comes to trying to police not just cryptocurrency wallets and companies, but also the more amorphous, loosely organized networks of people supporting protocols and projects that have the ability to do billions of dollars worth of damage.
An operation based out of Cherokee could provide medical marijuana to patients across North Carolina, according to our partners at WLOS in Asheville.

Over the coming weeks, hundreds of medical cannabis patient cards will be headed to North Carolinians who have applied to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) medical cannabis program.

ALSO READ: North Carolina medical marijuana bill likely dead for this year, House speaker says

Just because Cherokee has decided it wants to do this, it doesnt mean it can speak on behalf of the state of North Carolina. It cant, or on behalf of the federal government, Asheville attorney Stephen Lindsay, of the Lindsay Law firm, told WLOS.

The Cherokees Cannabis Control Board will reach out to approved patients within the next week. Currently, hundreds of applications are awaiting further information, WLOS reports.

An investigation done by WLOS took a look at legal concerns following the recent approval from the tribe for adult or recreational cannabis.

Currently, the line between North Carolina residents looking for medical marijuana and cannabis on tribal land near Coopers Creek in Swain County is the location for a health professionals signature, WLOS reports.

ALSO READ: Medical marijuana advances again at North Carolina Senate

The tribes Cannabis Control Boards application form requires documentation of one of 18 conditions and a healthcare professionals signature. Over 750 people have applied, but incomplete forms have caused the board to reach out to hundreds of applicants, according to WLOS.

A recent thread on Reddit concerning Cherokes marijuana program shows certain physicians being hesitant when it comes to providing their signatures for patients, WLOS reports.

A WLOS producer let a crew join her as she headed to her yearly checkup, where she planned to ask about medical marijuana and whether or not the use of it would help her.

The biggest thing was having trouble sleeping, and we kind of went from there, the WLOS producer told her doctor.

While at the annual appointment, she brought up issues around anxiety, and if those symptoms met the criteria for a disorder, she was soon met with more questions from her doctor.

Asking a lot more about my day-to-day life and the things I had already done to try to, you know, like, help with relaxing and kind of calming down at the end of the day, the producer said.

By the end of the appointment, WLOS reported their producer was steered away from the use of medical cannabis by her health provider.

ALSO READ: NC congressman wants to discourage legalizing marijuana for recreational use

She leaned more toward natural options that werent anything with cannabis or anything like that, the producer said to WLOS.

WLOS reached out to mountain area health systems, but many wouldnt address whether theyre discussing signing off on medical cannabis forms with physicians.

Another post on Reddit showed a cancer doctor, based in Hendersonville, who had readily filled out the forms, WLOS reports.

Local holistic physicians would not return calls; instead, WLOS reached out to Lindsay regarding the silence from health systems. Years ago, Lindsay was the lawyer for a doctor convicted of distributing marijuana to patients.

As long as this gray area, if you will call it that, is out there, I think physicians are going to be reluctant to do something that could be helpful to their patients, Lindsay told WLOS.

Lindsay went on to explain the two major legal concerns that may be making doctors hesitant to sign off on their patients applications.

From a legal perspective, its still unlawful in many states, including North Carolina, right? So, when you have a physician who gets a form where they know this form is going to be used by a patient to purchase or obtain something thats illegal, two concerns come to mind: one is their license to practice medicine in North Carolina going to think about this, Lindsay said.

WLOS reports that the states medical board has not had any requests for supportive statements regarding medical cannabis, and it has not taken a position on the matter.

Floridas medical cannabis program and its states Board of Medicine created both training and guidelines for medical staff, including warnings that violators will face consequences, WLOS reports.

ALSO READ: Western North Carolina tribe to vote on broader legalization of adult use of marijuana

Secondly, Lindsay told WLOS, they got a concern about maybe theyre going to get charged. They have taken a step by signing this form to help somebody obtain an illegal substance. Even if its not going to be enforced, theres got to be a concern.

Over in Wisconsin, tribes have legalized cannabis, but the state has not; the programs are adult-use programs removing medical requirement concerns, WLOS says.

ECBIs latest vote to approve a recreation/adult-use program is one step closer to the current state in Wisconsin, but currently, with only a medical program in place, your doctor may hesitate or provide alternatives to medical marijuana.

When you get a form like this and you realize its going to be used by somebody for medical care and its medical care youre not directly supervising, wouldnt you be concerned? Lindsay said.

(WATCH BELOW: Western NC reservation votes to legalize possession of marijuana)
























(Bloomberg) -- Five women feature in Prime Minister Fumio Kishida s new cabinet lineup, equaling a record, yet the influx may not point to a gender equality breakthrough in a country that struggles to appoint female leaders in most fields.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Most prominent among the new appointments is Yoko Kamikawa, a veteran former Justice Minister who becomes the countrys first woman foreign minister in almost two decades. Kamikawa, 70, is a graduate of Harvards Kennedy School of Government.

This is a giant step forward, for a country that lags on appointing women to corporate leadership positions, US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel said of the appointments in a phone interview. He welcomed Kamikawas selection as foreign minister, describing her as very capable.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishidas New Cabinet Lineup

While Minister for Economic Security Sanae Takaichi retained her spot in the cabinet, the other three women were appointed to relatively low-profile positions in charge of policy for children, post-disaster reconstruction and regional revitalization.

Kishida kept men in the main finance and trade roles, in line with a pattern of excluding women from the types of jobs that open the way to taking over as prime minister. Japan has never had a female finance minister and its last female chief cabinet secretary left the post more than 30 years ago.

The limited progress partly reflects an overall dearth of women in Kishidas long-ruling Liberal Democratic Party  only 8% of its lawmakers in the legislatures powerful lower house are female, even less than the 10% across all parties. Kamikawa told reporters on Thursday Japans gender gap was an enormous problem.

Japan fell to 125th place out of 146 nations in the World Economic Forums report on gender equality this year, and was at 138th position in terms of political empowerment for women, lower than Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.

In the cabinet, the number of women sometimes goes up and then goes down, as the focus switches to other issues, said Mieko Nakabayashi, a former lawmaker turned political science professor at Waseda University in Tokyo. In Japanese politics, particularly the lower house, the basic number of women is too low. Japanese ministers are mostly selected from among lower house lawmakers.

While appointing women has helped successive Japanese governments clean up their image and bolster public support, the effect can sometimes be short-lived.

In 2014, then-Prime Minister Shinzo Abe appointed five women to his cabinet, spurring a surge in voter approval. About six weeks later, two of them resigned on the same day, one felled by an accusation that shed broken regulations by handing out cheap paper fans to voters. In October 2018, Abe appointed a cabinet with only one woman among its 19 members.

Women in power tend to be held to a higher standard than men around the world, and the effect is particularly pronounced in Japan, according to Mari Miura, a professor of political science at Sophia University in Tokyo.

Women are over-scrutinized, she said. If women make a small mistake theres a huge attack. If men do the same thing, of course they will be criticized, but I think the degree of criticism will be much stronger for women.

Japan Stock Exchanges Board Diversity Is Among Worst in World

Rui Matsukawa, a former diplomat and vice defense minister, might have been a candidate for the cabinet this year had it not been for a storm of criticism over light-hearted photos shed posted on social media during an LDP study trip to Paris in July.

To be sure, Yuko Obuchi, the other female former minister who resigned in 2014, was accused of much more serious breaches. Kishida appointed Obuchi to a party position in charge of election campaigns on Wednesday, saying he wanted her to uncover talent and help move the party toward its goal of having women take 30% of its parliamentary seats.

The other female appointees to Kishidas new cabinet included Hanako Jimi, a former medical doctor, who became Minister for Regional Revitalization. Ayuko Kato, a former management consultant and daughter of a renowned politician, took up the post in charge of policy for children.

Shinako Tsuchiya, a cooking and flower arrangement expert before she turned to politics, was appointed Minister for Reconstruction.

There are many talented female lawmakers with a wealth of experience, Kishida told reporters on Wednesday. He added he wanted the new ministers to make the most of their sensitivity and empathy as women in their work.

--With assistance from Takashi Hirokawa and Yuki Hagiwara.

(Updates with comment from Kamikawa in sixth paragraph.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A Northland apartment fire didnt lead to anyone getting hurt, but 10 units were damaged and a number of people need help in the aftermath.

The Kansas City Fire Department says it went to The Retreat at Walnut Creek, off Parvin Road near N. Troost Avenue, at about 11 p.m. on Wednesday and encountered a heavy fire.

KCFD battling northland apartment fire. No injuries at this time. Offensive operation.#KCFD pic.twitter.com/pxp0RkDIed  KCFD (@KCMOFireDept) September 14, 2023

KCFD says crews aggressively attacked and knocked down the fire, a search of the entire building revealed no one was trapped or hurt.

Lawsuit blames Liberty Public Schools for students death

The Red Cross was ordered to help five displaced adults. Fire investigators are working to determine how this got started.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Student clubs associated with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes will once again be officially recognized by public schools in Californias San Jose Unified School District after the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Wednesday that they had been wrongly excluded from campus life.

School officials cannot treat religious clubs differently than other student organizations even if they impose faith-based restrictions on their members, the ruling said.

Under the First Amendments protection of free exercise of religion and free speech, the government may not single out religious groups for special disfavor compared to similar secular groups, wrote Judge Consuelo M. Callahan for the majority.

Related

Wednesdays ruling is the latest development in a legal saga that dates back to 2019. Thats when school officials put new restrictions on clubs associated with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes due to concerns about the clubs views on LGBTQ rights.

The school districts main issue, according to the 9th Circuits decision, was that the clubs required students interested in leadership positions to affirm a Statement of Faith, which includes the belief that sexual relations should be within the confines of a marriage between a man and a woman.

School officials believed that such a policy violated the districts non-discrimination rules and, as a result, revoked the Fellowship of Christian Athletes official status on campus.

The clubs could still meet on school grounds, but could not keep their club funds in school accounts or be listed in the yearbook, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.

In April 2020, two students filed a lawsuit seeking to restore the faith-based clubs previous status. The district court ruled for the school district, but that decision has now been overturned by the 9th Circuit.

In Wednesdays ruling, Callahan wrote that concerns about anti-LGBTQ discrimination, while important, cannot be used to justify unfair treatment of religious clubs.

While it cannot be overstated that anti-discrimination policies certainly serve worthy causes  particularly within the context of a school setting where students are often finding themselves  those policies may not themselves be utilized in a manner that transgresses or supersedes the governments constitutional commitment to be steadfastly neutral to religion, she wrote for the majority.

The ruling also said that clubs associated with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes should not be penalized for requiring leaders to affirm a statement of faith if other clubs, such as the Senior Women club, are allowed to require leaders to be a certain age and gender.

The District, rather than treating (the Fellowship of Christian Athletes) like comparable secular student groups whose membership was limited based on criteria including sex, race, ethnicity and gender identity, penalized it based on its religious beliefs, Wednesdays ruling said.

In a statement released by the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, an organization leader expressed excitement about the opportunity to once again fully serve San Jose students.

FCA is excited to be able to get back to serving our campuses, said Rigo Lopez, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes leader for Bay Area schools. Our FCA teams have long enjoyed strong relationships with teachers and students in the past, and we are looking forward to that again.
Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) was ejected from the musical "Beetlejuice" in Denver this week after she was accused of vaping, singing, recording the show and being disruptive during the performance.

An incident report obtained by the Colorado Sun says that two patrons were reprimanded, then escorted from the premises for "causing a disturbance" during the musical Sunday night at the city-owned Buell Theatre. The incident report, which does not name the people involved, says the patrons were issued a warning during intermission after three complaints were made by other patrons about their behavior.

Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post.

Surveillance footage from the theater released by Denver Arts & Venues, a city and county agency, appears to show Boebert and a man being escorted from their seats. In the hall, Boebert is seen rebuking an usher, at one point giving him the middle finger.

As they were being escorted from the premises, according to the incident report, the pair made statements such as: "Do you know who I am?" and "I am on the board" and "I will be contacting the mayor." Officers with the Denver Police Department responded to the incident and stayed in the lobby until the pair left the venue, the report says.

Drew Sexton, Boebert's campaign manager, confirmed to The Washington Post that the congresswoman was escorted out of the performance, but he disputed the alleged behavior cited by the venue.

"I can confirm the stunning and salacious rumors: in her personal time, Congresswoman Lauren Boebert is indeed a supporter of the performing arts (gasp!) and, to the dismay of a select few, enthusiastically enjoyed a weekend performance of Beetlejuice," he said in a statement. Sexton noted that the Denver Post, the first to report the story, has reviewed the show as "zany," "outrageous" and a "lusty riot."

Sexton denied that Boebert was vaping during "Beetlejuice," saying that heavy fog machines and electronic cigarettes were used during the show, so there might have been "a misunderstanding from someone sitting near her."

Boebert said on X, formerly Twitter, that she "did thoroughly enjoy the AMAZING Beetlejuice at the Buell Theatre and I plead guilty to laughing and singing too loud!"

"Everyone should go see it if you get the chance this week and please let me know how it ends!" she wrote.

Denver Police Sgt. David Abeyta told The Post that the venue's private security handled the situation, "so we actually never had any interaction with that incident."

"It was resolved before we got involved," he said.

Brian Kitts, director of marketing and communications for Denver Arts & Venues, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Wednesday morning. Kitts told the Denver Gazette that Boebert and her guest were booted after "numerous complaints" from fellow patrons about inappropriate behavior.

Before she was elected to Congress in 2020, Boebert was arrested or summoned at least four times, according to the Denver Post. Boebert, who represents a rural and heavily conservative part of western Colorado, was reelected last year after a recount confirmed she had won the closer-than-expected election. Her Democratic challenger, Adam Frisch, had argued that Boebert's controversial comments and reputation as a firebrand Republican - she compared the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol to 1776, when the United States declared its independence - were a distraction for her district. She won by 546 votes.

Frisch is challenging Boebert again for her seat in 2024.

"Beetlejuice," a Broadway adaptation of the 1988 Tim Burton film, is showing at the Buell Theatre until Sept. 17. The venue cautions that the musical "contains strong language, mature references, and a lot of the crazy, inappropriate stuff you would expect from a deranged demon."

On Sunday, staff received three complaints about the couple sitting in Row E of the orchestra section, the report says. Multiple officials waited until the pair returned to their seats to give them a warning.

"I informed them that our usher team had noticed vaping and also that they were causing a disturbance for the area with noise, singing, using their cell phone, and that they need to be respectful to their neighbors," an official wrote in the report. "Since, there was already multiple complaints, I informed the patrons that if there was another issue that they would be asked to leave."

That's when Boebert and her guest became "argumentative," saying "they were in concert with everyone around them," the report says. Five minutes later, theater officials got another report that the pair were being loud and recording the performance, according to the report. That's when officials told Boebert and the man to leave.

"They told me they would not leave," a venue official wrote. "I told them that they need to leave the theatre and if they do not, they will be trespassing. The patrons said they would not leave. I told them I would [be] going to get Denver Police. They said go get them."

Minutes later, Boebert and her guest left. After they exited the theater, Boebert was seen twirling on the promenade while holding the man's hand, according to surveillance video.

The man did not appear to be her husband, and his identity is unclear. Boebert announced in May that she was filing for divorce from her husband of almost two decades. Her husband reportedly threatened their neighbors last year in what authorities described as a neighborhood disturbance. No arrests were made in that case.

Sexton, the Boebert campaign manager, told The Post that Boebert appreciates the venue's strict enforcement of its no-photo policy. The congresswoman "strongly encourages everyone to go see Beetlejuice," adding: "But with a gentle reminder to leave their phones outside of the venue."

Related Content

Extreme heat brings hidden risk for people with mental health issue

At Telluride, screening a film about Jimmy Buffett, without him
FILE - Dave McCormick, a Republican candidate for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania, meets with attendees during a campaign event in Coplay, Pa., Jan. 25, 2022. McCormick is expected to announce his second bid for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania, according to people familiar with his plans, taking on Democratic Sen. Bob Casey after narrowly losing an expensive and bruising GOP primary last year to a Donald Trump-endorsed rival. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File)

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  Republican David McCormick is expected to announce his second bid for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania, according to people familiar with his plans, taking on Democratic Sen. Bob Casey after narrowly losing an expensive and bruising GOP primary last year to a Donald Trump-endorsed rival.

McCormick, 58, has strong support from the party establishment. With his deep pockets as a former hedge fund CEO, Republicans believe he will mount a strong challenge to the three-term Casey in a state that is critical to control of the White House and the Senate.

He has begun telling people of his intention to run and is expected to announce his candidacy next week, according to three people who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to avoid disclosing private conversations.

McCormicks impending candidacy is a huge win for Republicans, who had heavily recruited him to run again after he sought the seat of retiring Republican Sen. Pat Toomey last year. McCormick lost to celebrity heart surgeon Dr. Mehmet Oz in the primary by just 950 votes, and Oz went on to lose to Democrat John Fetterman in the general election, costing the GOP a seat in a critical presidential battleground state.

McCormick has floated the possibility that he would run almost since the moment he lost last years Senate GOP primary, and he has consolidated support by showing up at local party events and raising money for Republican candidates.

He has stayed in the public eye by making the rounds of conservative podcasts on a publicity tour for a book he published in March.

Republicans acknowledge that beating Casey will be difficult.

Casey, 63, is a stalwart of Pennsylvanias Democratic politics, the son of a former two-term governor and the longest-ever serving Democrat in the Senate from Pennsylvania. He has won all of his Senate elections by at least 9 percentage points, and the last full fundraising quarter was his best ever.

The Democratic Party has treated McCormick as the de facto GOP nominee for months, attacking his record in business, his opposition to abortion rights and indications that he still lives on Connecticuts ritzy Gold Coast," where he spent a dozen years as an executive at the hedge fund Bridgewater Associates.

McCormick insists he lives in Pittsburgh, in a house he bought there in early 2022 and has stressed his hometown roots in Pennsylvania, including growing up on a Christmas tree farm near Bloomsburg that he still owns.

So far, McCormick has a clear GOP primary field and Republican Party brass is solidly behind McCormick.

McCormick has drawn pledges of support from two major Senate GOP donor committees  the National Republican Senatorial Committee and the Senate Leadership Fund, a super PAC linked to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell  even in a primary.

In recent days, a McCormick ally has been circulating a letter of support for McCormick featuring a whos-who of party brass, including the state party chair, the partys two national committee representatives and 36 of 67 county party chairs.

A Sept. 30 state party meeting is approaching, and GOP circles are alive with talk that McCormick will seek an endorsement vote there.

McCormick boasts a resume that spans from the military to the highest levels of government to business.

The son of Pennsylvania's first state university system chancellor, McCormick graduated from West Point, won a Bronze Star for his service in the Gulf War, got a doctorate from Princeton University, served in senior positions in former President George W. Bushs administration and reached Wall Street celebrity as CEO of Bridgewater.

He ran last year amid carpetbaggery cries as one of three wealthy, connected Republican candidates  including Oz, the heart surgeon best-known as the host of daytime TVs now-ended The Dr. Oz Show  who moved from blue states to run in swing-state Pennsylvania.

Ultimately, McCormick lost the primary after spending $14 million of his own money on the race. McCormick has reported assets of over $100 million, and could again spend heavily on the 2024 next race.

___

Follow Marc Levy on Twitter at http://twitter.com/timelywriter.
Oklahoma Speaker of the House Charles McCall talks to the media Thursday about Gov. Kevin Stitt's call for a special legislative session.

The two Republican leaders of the Oklahoma Legislature are clearly not in sync about Gov. Kevin Stitt's call for a special session in October.

Speaker of the House Charles McCall , R-Atoka, said Thursday at a news conference his party's members would be well-prepared to take up the issue of a cut to the state's personal income tax. He said he hoped to have an agreement and a package of legislation ready to go on the first day of the session Oct. 3.

Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat , R-Oklahoma City, had just said the day before that he questioned the wisdom of eliminating the state income tax, which he said could cost Oklahoma billions of dollars.

"Are we going to close schools? Are we going to tax oil and gas and businesses more? These are all questions the governor needs to answer directly to Oklahomans instead of just sending out an ambiguous special session call," Treat said. We cannot act until we have more specific details, he said.

Both Republican leaders were responding to Stitt's executive order on Monday, calling the Legislature into special session. Stitt, also a Republican, called on lawmakers to at least make a start toward eliminating the state income tax. He also proposed steps designed to make the Legislature more transparent about its spending decisions and called for a trigger law to cancel the state income tax for all Oklahomans if courts rule tribal citizens do not have to pay them.

Speaker of the House Charles McCall and Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat divided on effects of cutting personal income tax

While Treat called the governors special session plan vague, McCall said he thought the request was fairly specific and said House Republicans, like the governor, were in favor of eventual elimination of the income tax.

When we look at other states, those that are most successful, that are gaining population that have the highest growth in the jobs industry sector are those with no personal income tax, he said. But weve got to do that in a way that we can remain competitive, and that will take some time.

Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat is shown in July during an interview with The Oklahoman about the passage of bills.

Treat had expressed reservations that the state had enough revenue to afford a tax cut and wondered if tax increases in other areas would be needed to fill the gap.

No state has had an income tax and then eliminated it entirely, Treat said. States that dont have an income tax did not have an income tax to start with. Its really hard to come down on how you do that. The governor feels like hes found a way to do that, and to do it overnight if we need to, I just have not seen a path.

Concern also was expressed by House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson. She criticized the governor's proposal to eliminate the state's personal income tax and called it "political grandstanding." She said the cut would end up costing Oklahomans more in other tax increases.

But McCall said he rejected the idea of eliminating one tax and offsetting the loss by increasing taxes in another area. Were not interested in shifting tax burden from one to the other at this point, he said. We think the revenue of this state has grown at a very fast and high rate and its time to give the people of Oklahoma a break on those taxes.

House Speaker Charles McCall, shown in July, said Thursday he agrees with Gov. Kevin Stitt about elimination of the state's individual income tax.

He added: "There needs to be a cut right now. We can do it. We should do it. It's long overdue.

The last time the personal and corporate income tax rates were cut, the state saw revenue growth, McCall said.

Tax cuts themselves dont mean less revenue for the state. I think those [who] would say well, its $4 billion less for the state, are not looking at the dynamics of when you lower taxes, people spend more and more tax revenue is collected in other areas. Its not a static issue. Its a dynamic issue.

More: Three things to know about taxes in Oklahoma as Gov. Stitt calls special session

The Petroleum Alliance of Oklahoma weighed in with a statement Thursday saying taxes on the state's oil and gas industry were already high enough.

"When income taxes, corporate taxes, sales taxes and other miscellaneous taxes and fees are included, the state's oil and natural gas industry accounts for approximately 25% of state revenue annually, said Brook A. Simmons, president of the industry trade association.

Simmons suggested a tax on wind and solar energy production.

'Irrational hostility.' Two Oklahoma tribes respond to Gov. Stitt's trigger law proposal

McCall didn't directly express an opinion about the governor's trigger law proposal, which had drawn comments from leaders of two of Oklahoma's native tribes.

Choctaw Nation Chief Gary Batton encouraged lawmakers in a statement Wednesday to pin Stitt down on details.

We commend Senate Pro Temp Greg Treats fight for transparency and efficiency in state government. Priorities and goals should be stated clearly before jumping into another special session, Batton said.

Muscogee Nation Principal Chief David Hill was more direct in criticizing the governor. Hill told The Oklahoman Wednesday the call for a trigger law was the latest example of Stitts irrational hostility toward tribes.

His attempt to rework the entire tax code, simply to avoid working with tribes or following well-established and decades-old laws, is just shameful, Hill said. Once again, the Legislature is going to have to clean up his mess.

Treat said he was skeptical about trigger laws because the mechanics surrounding those laws have to work. We have had trigger scenarios that set us back, so Im leery of triggers. You cant just ram it through in a day or two without a whole lot of thought.

More: Oklahoma governor's call for special session on tax fairness raises criticism, crickets

Reporters attending McCall's news conference used the occasion to ask the speaker if he planned to launch an investigation of state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters as demanded by Democratic legislators.

McCall noted that the Oklahoma State Department of Education was an executive branch office, not a legislative office and said he thought it more appropriate for Gov. Stitt, as chief of the executive branch, to comment on Walters.

I am unaware of anything criminal that Ryan Walters has (done) in his duties as superintendent," McCall said. "I think the level of infraction that you would have to meet for this body to consider something like that is strong.

"Until somebody puts forth an allegation of something of a criminal nature, I don't see the House of Representatives weighing in on trying to overturn the election results of the people of the state of Oklahoma," he added.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma Republican leaders out of sync with special session goals
A senator choosing to leave public life isn't Earth-shattering news in Washington, but Mitt Romney's decision to forgo reelection next year is already being cast as a pivotal moment for the country, Congress and the Republican Party ahead of 2024.

In a video posted online, the Utah Republican expressed a skepticism that either party's current political leaders  namely Democratic President Joe Biden and former Republican President Donald Trump  can address eminent problems such as U.S. debt, foreign affairs and climate change.

"Political motivations too often impede the solutions that these challenges demand," he said. "The next generation of leaders must take America to the next stage of global leadership."

On the same day Romney announced he wouldn't run again, excerpts of a forthcoming biography were released by The Atlantic, which explains what drove him to leave politics

Overall it paints a bleak portrait of the Senate, where Romney was considered a rational moderate by today's standards. But it also describes a disturbingly cynical direction of American politics in general from a conservative who was once the national standard bearer for the GOP.

Here are key takeaways from that article, and the fallout from his decision.

Republican senators can't stand Donald Trump, but they won't say so publicly

Donald Trump and Mitt Romney in November of 2016.

Romney isn't shy about his dislike of Trump and where he has taken the GOP. The senator is the only Republican who twice voted to convict the former president in his two impeachments by House Democrats.

The new biography, entitled "Romney: A Reckoning," says many Senate Republicans also loathed the former president, but were too chicken to say anything publicly. A senior senator in the book said Trump, "has none of the qualities you would want in a president, and all of the qualities you wouldnt," according to Romney.

Romney also details a conversation with Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell , who referred to Trump as "an idiot" for criticizing GOP members ahead of the impeachment trial.

"Youre lucky," McConnell said, according to Romney. "You can say the things that we all think. Youre in a position to say things about him that we all agree with but cant say."

A McConnell spokesperson told the biographer, McKay Coppins, the GOP leader didn't remember this conversation.

Jan. 6 changed the fear from political to physical violence

Rioters at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington. Daniel D.J. Rodriguez, a California man who drove a stun gun into a police officer's neck during one of the most violent clashes of the U.S. Capitol riot was sentenced on Wednesday to more than 12 years in prison. Rodriguez yelled, Trump won! as he was led out of the courtroom where U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson sentenced him to 12 years and seven months behind bars for his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack.

In the book, Romney talks about how Republican lawmakers' fear of Trump was largely an anxiety about a backlash at the ballot box by the former president's fervent base.

But that alarm escalated after the Jan. 6, 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol, which spawned "a new, more existential brand of cowardice" among GOP lawmakers according to the biographer.

Multiple Republican lawmakers confided to Romney, the book says, that they wanted to vote to impeach Trump the second time for his role in the attack, but was worried about violent reprisals against their family.

Trump remains the unquestionable top dog for the 2024 presidential nomination despite being smacked with multiple criminal and civil charges.

At a Wednesday press conference in his office, Romney told reporters he does not envision the GOP will move on from Trump in the near future, but the party will see leadership changes "over the next decade or so."

McConnell ghosts Romney

At several points in the book, Romney talks about conversations with McConnell, and he was often left guessing where the Kentucky Republican actually stood on Trump.

Sometimes it seemed that McConnell would do whatever the former president asked in the pursuit of a policy goal and provided political cover publicly, but in private conversations the GOP leader would rip Trump to shreds.

Leading up to the Jan. 6, 2021 attacks to overturn the 2020 presidential election results, Romney texted McConnell about he had been told by Sen. Angus King, of Vermont, about how a senior official at the Pentagon reported seeing, "very disturbing social media traffic regarding the protests planned on the 6th. There are calls to burn down your home, Mitch; to smuggle guns into DC, and to storm the Capitol."

Romney told McConnell he hoped there were "sufficient security plans are in place," but that he was concerned given Trump, who was the instigator, is the "one who commands the reinforcements" needed to protect the building and lawmakers.

McConnell never texted back.

'Stop the stupid': Living in the Senate's shrinking center

Sens. Mark Warner, D-Va., Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., Mitt Romney, R-Utah,, Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz., take a break from a meeting on infrastructure for going to a vote at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday.

Romney was once the GOP's face when he won the nomination and challenged then-President Barack Obama during the 2012 presidential race. He holds a solid conservative voting record, but his departure from the Senate is notable as one of the last moderate voices on the right in the upper chamber.

Whoever takes his place in Utah, which could be former Rep. Jason Chaffetz; Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson; or Riverton, Utah Mayor Trent Saggs, will likely be more Trump and MAGA-friendly.

What remains of the political center in the Senate, and its overall usefulness, has been a subject of conversation largely on the left around Sens. Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema, who have angered progressives by pumping the brakes on ambitious parts of Biden's agenda.

In the upcoming biography, Romney deals with accepting that the GOP he once represented in 2012 is mostly gone and the pitfalls of navigating America's political center.

At one point he approached Manchin about creating a new political party with a "Stop the stupid" slogan, according to the biographer. Instead of long-shot bid for president, which the West Virginia Democrat has flirted with publicly, he argued it would be a better idea to herd like-minded donors towards a third party that will pledge support to whoever aligned with their agenda the most.

Romney alludes to how age will matter in 2024

President Joe Biden, with a bipartisan group of senators, speaks Thursday June 24, 2021, outside the White House in Washington. Biden invited members of the group of 21 Republican and Democratic senators to discuss the infrastructure plan. From left are, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, Biden, Sen, Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz, Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., and Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

The ages of U.S. leaders remains a rising concern for voters, who have expressed worry about the health of liberal and conservative lawmakers who are in their 80s and 90s.

That topic will come into focus more as we get close to next year's presidential contest, given the Democratic and Republican frontrunners are the oldest candidates running in the 2024 race.

Thirty-seven percent of Democratic and independent voters said Biden being 80 years old makes them less likely to vote for him, according to a recent USA TODAY/Suffolk University poll. Trump is right behind him at age 77.

In the upcoming biography, Romney jokes about how the Senate is a "club for old men" where many of the elder members need the job for stimulation to stay alive, in his view. He noted that if he ran for reelection next year he would be in his mid-80s during his second term, and that a new generation of leaders should take over.

"They are the ones who need to make the decisions that will shape the world they will be living in," Romney, who is 76, said during his announcement video.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Republicans bash Trump, McConnell ghosts Romney: upcoming biography
(Bloomberg) -- The third Republican presidential debate will take place in Miami in November, according to a person familiar with the planning.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The first debate took place in August in Milwaukee with the second one scheduled for Sept. 27 in Simi Valley, California, at the Reagan Presidential Library.

Currently, the two frontrunners for the GOP presidential nomination call Florida home: former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis . Trump skipped the first debate and has said that he would skip the second one as well.

A spokesperson for the Republican National Committee didnt immediately return a message left for comment.

Miami was selected even as some candidates speculated that the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa would host the event.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy said Republicans should not let the government shut down.

Conservatives have attached demands to government funding, including a Biden impeachment inquiry.

Congress has until September 30 to reach a funding agreement.

Lawmakers are wrapping up their work in Washington for the week, and they made no progress toward an agreement on keeping the government funded. But conservatives are determined to find a solution so they can continue investigating President Joe Biden.

On Thursday, Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy held a closed-door meeting with his party, and according to reports, he made clear Republicans should work out a funding plan before the government shuts down after September 30.

"If you think we have more leverage in a shutdown, I don't think that. You give all the power to the administration," McCarthy said in the meeting, according to Punchbowl News. "Our power is if we pass appropriations bills and make Democrats defend their votes."

But at this point, Republicans and Democrats have yet to agree on a solution that would avoid a government shutdown. While Biden and Democratic leadership have pushed McCarthy to support a short-term continuing resolution that would keep the government funded without any conditions through the next few months, some conservative lawmakers have said they would not vote for a bill that did not meet some of their demands, including an impeachment inquiry into Biden.

"In our conference meeting this morning, mountains of overwhelming evidence is being presented and we are formulating our impeachment inquiry plan," Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene wrote on X, formerly Twitter, on Thursday. "Speaker McCarthy also told us that starting next week, we aren't leaving until we get government funding done. This is exactly what we should be doing."

While even some Senate Republicans have expressed doubts on the existence of "overwhelming evidence" for an impeachment inquiry is, they've said it might just be what is needed to move forward with the funding process. "It seems like it's maybe part of the bargain over there to keep some folks in line on maybe the budgetary stuff," GOP Sen. Mike Braun told Politico on Tuesday.

Still, the clock is ticking, and while both parties seem to agree a government shutdown is not ideal, the lack of progress toward an agreement thus far is putting increased pressure on congressional leadership. Goldman Sachs economists predicted in a Tuesday note that "the federal government looks more likely than not to temporarily shut down."

Meanwhile, Biden's administration has blasted conservatives' efforts to attach conditions to the government funding process. On Thursday, Anita Dunn, senior advisor to the president, wrote in a memo that "while the Senate is advancing bipartisan bills in line with the budget deal the President negotiated with Speaker McCarthy in June, House Republicans have chosen a very different pathputting forward a series of reckless, partisan bills that would gut programs millions of hardworking families count on."

Read the original article on Business Insider
When he announced the opening of an impeachment inquiry on President Joe Biden , Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) carefully avoided suggesting that House Republicans would inevitably reach the outcome many of his members are craving.

We are committed to getting the answers for the American publicnothing more, nothing less, McCarthy said during brief remarks on Tuesday. We will go wherever the evidence takes us.

But to many lawmakers, including some Republicans, its fairly obvious McCarthy will end up where the politics takes him: a full vote to impeach the president.

When he used the term impeachment inquiry now we have set expectations with the activists who are expecting an impeachment, said Rep. Ken Buck (R-CO), a conservative who has been skeptical of the push. When you start talking about the I word, the activists get fired up.

Matt Gaetz: McCarthy Has No Plan to Follow Through on Impeachment

It doesnt matter what the facts are, Buck said. They want us to move forward.

In addition to the party base, the hard-right lawmakers who are threatening to tank federal spending bills ahead of a Sep. 30 shutdown deadlineand also happen to be threatening to end McCarthys speakershiphave long clamored to impeach Biden, not merely to consider impeaching him.

Its unlikely these lawmakers, some of whom use phrases like the Biden Crime Family and loosely insist the president is guilty of criminal conduct, will be satisfied with an impeachment inquiry that does not result in an impeachment vote. In fact, starting an inquiry and not ultimately impeaching Biden may give the appearance that Republicans are actually acquitting the president.

Through nine months, McCarthys speakership has offered little evidence to suggest he would be able or willing to resist far-right pressure to go after Biden. McCarthys survival has defied expectations, but he has made it through each day by making whatever political bargains and concessions necessary, usually to placate the most extreme wing of his conference.

The impeachment announcement, said Rep. Jared Huffman (D-CA), is obviously a protection payment to the mob, that enables McCarthy to hold the gavel. Its nothing more than that.

Huffman expressed doubt that Republicans would even go through with an impeachment vote, or Senate trial, given the evidence. Ill be surprised if they can even get to that, he said. Even if they do, its a national joke, and everyone knows it.

But McCarthy is under a lot of pressure to act, both inside and outside pressure, said Buck, leading to the congressmans concern that the impeachment effort will gain momentumregardless of what facts are, or are not, unearthed.

The politically dangerous impeachment quest could, at last, represent a bargain that McCarthy cannot afford. Buck argued the decision to move forward with the inquirywithout holding a full floor vote to authorize itamounted to a major self-inflicted wound for the Speaker.

Hes the one that raised the issue of impeachment. Everybody on the outside wants to talk about it, let them talk about itwe have an institution and we have to keep it moving, the Colorado Republican said. How do you go to Democrats and say, I need your vote on the [continuing government funding resolution], right after Ive said, Im going to beat your president? Its crazy.

Jim Jordan Pulls a McCarthy, Flip-Flops on Impeachment Inquiry Vote

The deep irony of the GOPs impeachment push is that McCarthy and Republicans themselves made many of the arguments against Democrats in Trumps first impeachment that they are fielding now.

In 2019, when then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi opened an impeachment inquiry into Trump for pressuring Ukraines president to dig up dirt on Biden, Republicans slammed it as a formality to satisfy Democrats zeal to impeach Trump.

Pelosi also launched the inquiry without a vote, which McCarthy and the Trump administration argued made the exercise illegitimate. Four years later, McCarthy has done the same thing, despite vowing to hold a vote first. He has since claimed he is merely following the precedent set by Pelosi.

Both party leaders lacked the necessary votes to formalize an impeachment inquiry at the start. But in Trumps so-called perfect call with President Volodymyr Zelensky, Democrats had a clear action to build an investigation around.

For most of this year, Republicans were cool on impeachment, with some lawmakers admitting they didnt have such a strong basis for impeachment and were, essentially, openly in search of one.

To this point, the House GOPs investigations into the Biden familyparticularly Hunter Bidens activities while his father served as vice presidenthave been handled by the House Oversight Committee, led by Rep. James Comer (R-KY).

Much of the material they have framed as most damning, like Hunter Bidens business dealings in Ukraine, was, ironically, scrutinized and litigated in Trumps first impeachment. Many of the GOPs core impeachment claims now, like the allegation that Biden ordered the firing of a prosecutor looking into a Ukrainian companyBurisma, which his son was working forwere debunked then.

Still, the Oversight Committees activities fueled many Fox News and Newsmax appearances, as Republican lawmakers talked up their findings. With GOP base voters clearly expecting serious action from the House, the tone of senior lawmakers grew more serious after a closed-door Oversight interview with Devon Archer, Hunter Bidens former business partner, who indicated that the then-vice president was more aware of his sons business activities than he insisted.

Even as those investigations ramped up, GOP lawmakers have continued to admit they have not found evidence to suggest that Biden himself might be guilty of impeachable offenses.

Over the weekend, Rep. French Hill (R-AR) said on CBS that he doesnt believe Republicans have even remotely completed their work on the kind of detailed investigations and quality work that Speaker McCarthy is expecting both those committees to produce before someone goes to, you know, an impeachment activity.

Rep. Dave Joyce (R-OH), meanwhile, said recently he is not seeing facts or evidence at this point that would justify an impeachment inquiry.

Amid the palpable unease over impeachment, several Republican lawmakers insisted that McCarthy has not made an official voteor widespread GOP supporta fait accompli.

Dem Rep Lays Bare the Hypocrisy of Biden Impeachment in Just 60 Seconds

I wouldnt be pre-committed to a course of action, said Rep. Dan Bishop (R-NC), an archconservative lawmaker who held out on supporting McCarthys speakership.

Rep. Kevin Hern (R-OK), chairman of the conservative Republican Study Committee, had a similar answer. If theres no there there, then theres no there there, he told The Daily Beast. Then we say Hey, you were right, we were wrong, lets move on down the road.

Both lawmakers downplayed the notion that the party base was pushing McCarthy, or the party writ large, toward a predetermined outcome.

Most of my base voters that I encounter want me to do something up here, but nobodys ever told me you just do it, regardless what the facts are. I havent heard it that way, Bishop said. Theyd like to have an explanation why nobodys doing anything, apparently, about a number of things, from their perspective.

Like many Republicans, Hern seemed confident that an empowered impeachment inquiry would unearth the kinds of revelations that would form a persuasive case against Biden in a Senate trial.

You have to make it so damning that Democrat senators would go to Biden and say, I cant support this, just like Howard Baker did to President Nixon back in the day, Hern added.

Hern is not the only Republican imagining a Senate impeachment trial, given the facts at hand.

Asked if hed thought about what a trial might look like, Buck scoffed.

Itd be a joke! he said. What evidence do you present that there is a connection between Hunter Bidens activities and Joe Biden at this point? Its a joke.

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.
For years, health issues, like heart attacks, respiratory problems, and decreased lung function, have been linked to air pollution.

Now, new research has added another disease to the laundry list of health issues that may be caused by dirty air: dementia.

What happened?

CBS News reported that new estimates from researchers published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine showed that annually nearly 188,000 dementia cases in the U.S. may have been caused by air pollution.

The study, one of the latest to spotlight health risks from air pollution, looked at how specific causes of air pollution seem to be more strongly tied to dementia than others.

It indicated exposure to pollution from wildfires and agriculture as having the strongest links to increasing a persons risk of Alzheimers disease and other types of dementia later in life.

Research findings were based on survey data that spanned decades and is backed by the National Institutes of Health. The data was then combined with air quality modeling, according to CBS.

They model all sources at once: coal-fired power plants, agriculture, wildfires, traffic  all these different emission sources  and then they turn off the source in the model one at a time. And then they can see the difference in what levels are there with the emissions sources and what are there without them, Sara Adar, associate chair of epidemiology at the University of Michigans School of Public Health, told CBS News.

Researchers focused on particulate matter with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometers and smaller in air pollution that is breathable and found that direct emissions arent the only concern.

In addition to the smoke directly from wildfires, other toxic molecules travel with the smoke as fires burn through communities. Farming was also found to worsen serious air pollution.

Farms will release a lot of ammonia gas, Adar said, and then in the air with the sunlight and other pollutants out there, theyll react to make particles, and those particles are what we see are likely toxins for the brain.

Why are these findings concerning?

With wildfires and agriculture being the leading causes, if we dont change our habits, we will likely see even more cases of dementia apparently caused by air pollution.

Agriculture is another significant contributor to air pollution, with livestock accounting for 14.5% of human-made planet-heating pollution, according to the United Nations. Overall, agriculture makes up over 11% of this type of pollution, per the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions.

Further, extreme temperatures and less rainfall  both becoming increasingly common, at least in some places, as our planet heats up  make for longer and worse fire seasons, meaning air pollution from wildfires will only worsen as well.

What can I do to help?

To protect ourselves and others from this risk, we must all work to reduce the amount of pollution released into the air.

Unlike many other common risk factors for dementia (e.g., hypertension, stroke, and diabetes), the studys authors wrote, exposures to air pollution can be modified at the population level, making it a prime target for large-scale prevention efforts.

We can do this by moving away from single-use plastics, switching from gas-powered cars to electric vehicles, and utilizing clean energy sources whenever possible.

Join our free newsletter for cool news and cool tips that make it easy to help yourself while helping the planet.
Weeks after residents of Village Woods Senior Living Community near Crete were told the facility would close due to recently discovered structural damage in the main building, questions remain about next steps for employees and residents.

A news release announcing the closure stated concrete spalling was discovered in many of the rooms. The cost of repairs as well as the disruption they would cause to residents were cited as the main reason why Providence Life Services  the religious nonprofit organization that manages Village Woods and seven other Midwest-based retirement communities  decided to close the center at the end of November

We are doing everything we can do with our resources to try and help them get to their next location, Providence Life Services CEO Rich Schutt said of the 84 residents. Some of them are going to (other) Providence Life Services facilities. Many are going to other community solutions.

Within two weeks, 70% of all residents have already figured out where they will move, Schutt said.

Residents who spoke with the Daily Southtown expressed frustration about how they were informed of the closure that affected themselves, family and friends.

Kelly Murfin, who said her father, Dennis, is a resident of Village Woods, was frustrated with the way Providence Life Services handled the Aug. 30 when residents were informed of the plan.

Carol Wentz, an 84-year-old resident of Village Woods, said she found herself crying for most of the meeting.

Most of us came here, expecting this to be our last place, Wentz said. I like this place so much because of the natural beauty.

Wentz said staff has made every effort to relocate her and fellow residents, and that Providence Life Services will help with moving expenses.

Yet the decision is still deeply affecting Wentz and fellow residents as they venture into a new place perhaps farther from family and friendships that have been forged at Village Woods.

Emotionally, its quite a jolt. Its partly the people, its partly the place, Wentz said.

Employees who spoke on the condition of anonymity expressed frustration they were only given three months to find new jobs, but they also appreciated Providence Life Services was doing things to help them, such as holding a job fair where they could meet prospective employers.

Spalling concrete presents itself as cracks or erosion of the surface concrete and is caused by a poor concrete mix, poor finishing, or overwatering, according to Concrete Network. Sometimes the only way to fix the surface is by a complete replacement of the area.

The spalling in Village Woods main building was discovered in April when engineers considered upgrades to residents rooms, Schutt said. The groups board looked into options, but the cost of repairs and the disruption to residents led board members to conclude closing was the best decision.

Providence Life Services brought in Chicago-based architecture firm Klein & Hoffman, Inc. to estimate how much the repairs would cost.

They said immediate things that they identified were probably half a million dollars, Schutt said.

Schutt said another $1.5 million would be required over the next several years to conduct necessary steps to complete the upgrades. He declined to provide Daily Southtown with Klein & Hoffmans estimate.

While $2 million is not an inexpensive fix, Schutt made $2 million in 2019, according to Providence Life Services 990 form from that year  a form used by the Internal Revenue Service that provides financial information about a nonprofit organization. Schutt said that year was an anomaly and was from his retirement payout, which he was owed when he turned 65.

I dont decide how much of the community resources should go to me, Schutt said, saying the board decides his salary.

In most years, Schutt said he makes roughly half a million dollars. In 2021, Schutt made more than $600,000 with the nonprofits chief operating officer making $421,351 and its chief financial officer making $338,815, according to the 990 form.

Weve been losing millions of dollars, Schutt said. Bringing in gross revenues is one thing. Do you have anything left when youre done serving people?

According to the 2021 form 990, the nonprofit lost $1.67 million.

Money was not the only factor in the decision, Schutt said. The disruption caused by the repairs would most likely force residents out of their homes for months. Hosting residents elsewhere for a portion of time during construction was ruled out.

The board made that decision after prayerful consideration and it was not made capriciously, he said.
In trying to meet my daily water goals, I typically chug down glass after icy glass when I eat out. But after reading reports of commercial ice linked to food poisoning outbreaks and watching videos of ice machines at fast food establishments filled with mold (who knew ice could grow mold?), Im ready to ditch my iced lattes and swear off frozen margs.

While most of us are aware of the potential dangers of ordering ice while traveling abroad, we wouldnt think twice about ordering an iced latte at our local coffee shop. But should we?

HuffPost spoke with food safety experts and hospitality workers about why you might want to avoid ordering ice in your drinks.

Can ice make you sick?

Ice doesnt typically top the food safety hit list in the United States because tap water is usually safe (with exceptions). When you make ice cubes at home, theres no concern that the cubes reach a safe internal temperature  its not like youre cooking a chicken.

Instead, issues arise when the mechanism for creating ice is unsanitary, or if someone touches the ice with dirty hands. Dr. Bryan Quoc Le, a food scientist and author of the book 150 Food Science Questions Answered, explained, Ice that has been handled improperly can pick up mold, bacteria and viruses from the hands of servers or cooks that transmit disease, much like any other food. Ice can also pick up microorganisms from the air or in the container if it is not properly washed and cleaned.

Mold can grow in ice machines.

When hundreds or thousands of folks need to be served, individual ice trays arent going to cut it. Instead, bars, restaurants, hotels, hospitals and even nursing homes use ice machines to spit out cubes and flakes. And like most machines, they need to get cleaned. Le explained, Ice machines should be regularly cleaned and sterilized. If there are any potential contaminants in the ice machine itself, these can spread to the ice produced. Examples include mold and bacteria in the piping or intakes.

According to Megan, an HR adviser for a catering group who has requested to remain anonymous, ice machines are some of the least frequently cleaned pieces of kitchen equipment. She said, There have been plenty of jobs where I worked for over a year, and I cant remember a single time where the ice machine was ever cleaned. There was only one place where it got cleaned, and thats because it broke. It wasnt a duty for the bartender, so it wasnt written as part of weekly/monthly/yearly cleaning schedules.

When no one cleans or cares for the ice machine, mold grows or the machine breaks. Le explained, The FDA stipulates that ice machines need to be cleaned and sterilized at least two to four times per year. Heavier usage ice machines may need to be cleaned once per month. The reasoning is that microorganisms coming in from the water can produce biofilm buildup, or if hard water is coming into the ice machine, this can produce a scale that filters and holds bacteria and molds. Over time, these can produce toxins and spores that leach into the ice water.

Smoothies, slushies and frozen alcoholic beverages, unfortunately, have to be added to the watch list. Flakes and chewable ice from machines are often used to blend into these beverages, meaning that mold from dirty machines can end up in your strawberry daiquiri.

Have people actually gotten sick from ice?

Mold in ice can cause respiratory illnesses and allergic reactions, Le said. Mold can also serve as a source of nutrition for other pathogenic bacteria and microorganisms to grow on.

There have been numerous reported incidents of contamination.

A 2018 study of five hospitals and two nursing homes in Cleveland, Ohio, found contamination of bacteria and yeast in 64 ice machines, causing an outbreak of gram-negative bacilli and Candida. A leaking air ventilation valve in an ice machine in Finland caused 154 people to become sick in 2016 with norovirus, and a 2002 study found ice machines causing an outbreak of mycobacteria fortuitum in St. Vincents Hospital and Medical Center in Greenwich Village, New York City. While the pathogens may vary, ice machine outbreaks often cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea and bloody stool, according to Le.

Since we dont typically associate beverages with foodborne illness, its possible there are more incidents that are unreported.

Should we avoid ice at restaurants?

Despite the horror stories of broken, moldy ice machines and dirty commercial ice, Bucknavage and Le both noted that folks shouldnt be too concerned.

Le said, Ice machines are typically quite safe so long as they are monitored and sanitized on a regular basis. Its not a major concern compared to actual foodborne outbreaks from contaminated food, and food outbreaks caused by contaminated ice is not particularly common in North America.

If you want to be extra safe, Bucknavage suggested looking for establishments that have hands-free or touchless dispensers, as this limits the risk of cross-contamination with other foods.

Related...
The corpses are everywhere.

Buried under mud-filled husks of ruined homes. Wedged among smashed bridges and roadways. Drifting by the dozens  perhaps hundreds, even thousands  in the detritus-filled sea.

In the days after a powerful storm lashed Libyas coastline and floodwaters from two burst dams swept part of the city of Derna into the sea, authorities have understandably focused on the living, racing to find and evacuate survivors. But they also must contend with the dead and collect and bury the growing number of victims before their bodies turn Derna into a massive contamination site.

This is the fourth day after the flooding. The corpses will start to decompose, Ahmed Zouiten, the World Health Organizations representative in Libya, said Thursday. This will be an environmental catastrophe.

Two burst dams sent a wall of water crashing through the city of Derna, in eastern Libya, killing thousands of people. (Yousef Murad / Associated Press)

Officials with the Libyan Red Crescent group so far have put the death toll at more than 11,000, with thousands of bodies yet to be recovered. An estimated 10,000 people remain missing, with conflicting figures from different agencies. There are fears that the death toll could almost double as rescue efforts wind down and become more focused on recovery.

The number is increasing. It could reach 18,000 to 20,000 people. This is what we expect, Derna Mayor Abdulmenam Ghaithi said in an interview Wednesday with Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television.

Read more: What's delaying lifesaving aid after Morocco and Libya natural disasters? Politics

The catastrophe was triggered by Mediterranean Storm Daniel, which over the weekend dumped almost 16 inches of rain within 24 hours on Libyas northeastern coast  a region that normally receives about 0.06 of an inch over the entire month of September. The deluge overwhelmed two dams upstream of Derna, which unleashed an estimated 1.05 billion cubic feet of water that crashed through Wadi Derna, the valley that bisects the city, wiping at least three neighborhoods off the map.

Rescue crews are trying to find anyone who might be trapped in the wreckage. But Ghaithi said his ravaged city, which had a population of 100,000, also needs teams specialized in recovering bodies, which litter both land and sea.

I fear that the city will be infected with an epidemic due to the large number of bodies under the rubble and in the water, he told the Reuters news agency.

The challenge of retrieving the corpses is gargantuan in a country riven by two competing governments  one in the east, the other in the west  and beset by infrastructure hollowed out by more than a decade of a previous war.

We simply have no capabilities. Even masks and gloves, we dont have enough, Abdul Qader Saleh, a member of Dernas commission for boy and girl scouts, said in a phone interview Thursday from the devastated city. Yesterday we saw bodies and we cant get to them. We need bulldozers, machines, even shovels.

Several countries have dispatched rescue teams, including Egypt, Turkey, Jordan, Tunisia, Algeria, the United Arab Emirates and France. Germany, Finland and Romania have also sent assistance.

Read more: Whole families drowned within minutes in Libya's floods after dams burst

Teams of frogmen and units from the self-styled Libyan National Army  the armed group that acts as the military force of the Benghazi-based eastern administration  have worked to recover bodies from the Mediterranean near Derna. Many are thought to have been pulled away from shore by the current, said Ahmad Hadal, a Libyan journalist from Derna.

As Im talking to you now, I received reports they retrieved a body from Qardabah  65 miles southeast of Derna, he said.

With the hospitals in Derna all but knocked out, emergency crews had initially deposited all corpses at one clinic with the aim of storing them for families to retrieve and of issuing death certificates, said Mohamed Eljarh, an analyst who heads the Benghazi-based Libya Desk consulting firm.

sulting firm.

Rescuers from Turkey's IHH humanitarian aid group carry the remains of a victim of the devastating flood that hit Derna, Libya. (IHH)

Then they realized the bodies were decomposing, so now theyre just taking photos for identification and then putting them in mass graves, he said.

The bodies are still coming out. The smell of death is everywhere.

Osama Ali, a spokesman for the Ambulance and Emergency Service of the western government based in Tripoli, which has offered assistance to the east, said the procession of death was ceaseless.

In one site we removed 500 corpses altogether, he said, explaining why authorities had to resort to mass graves.

Read more: Video: Thousands dead as floodwaters inundate Libya

But even those rudimentary burials have been affected by Libyas lack of resources, with body bags in short supply, said Zouiten of the World Health Organization. He added that a WHO plane carrying 32 tons of medical supplies, including body bags, was en route to Libya from the organizations hub in Dubai and would arrive Friday.

Its reached the point where we dont even have enough kafans, said Nagib Tarhoni, a doctor at the largest hospital near Derna, referring to the shrouds used by Muslims for burial.

We couldnt wash and wrap some of [the bodies] because they were too decomposed, he said. Others we couldnt identify from the bloating, and of course many were mutilated in the floods.

Because much of Derna is waterlogged, authorities designated burial sites in cemeteries outside the city. But those have filled to capacity, Tarhoni said, forcing authorities to find new areas.

For families desperate for news of their loved ones, the patchwork response among the various administrations and aid groups has left them with precious little information, analyst Eljarh said. Many have tried to enter the city to conduct their own searches, complicating humanitarian access already snarled by destroyed and obstructed roads.

The crisis room in Derna was slow to tell people Derna is off-limits, to tell them that were looking for your loved ones, and this is where well we put the bodies, he said. The No. 1 issue is very clear lack of organization and management for the scale of the disaster.

So far, authorities say they have evacuated more than 30,000 people from Derna and imposed restrictions on who can enter so as to reduce traffic.

The terrible irony of the situation, Eljarh said, is that despite the deluge in Derna, there is no clean water available in the city. The floods knocked out the sewage system, leading to fears of tainted drinking water. And aside from corpses, authorities will have to also clear away the carcasses of animals to prevent contamination.

Read more: Displaced by last week's earthquake, Moroccan families brace for shelter-less nights

The greater question, Tarhoni said, is whether Derna can be made habitable again.

People have lost jobs. Theyve lost homes. The city is facing a huge hygienic problem, water issues, supply issues, no hospitals. Its just not a livable city anymore, he said.

The displacement will be on a huge scale.





Sign up for Essential California for the L.A. Times biggest news, features and recommendations in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
RYE, N.H.  As Robert F. Kennedy Jr. tries to unseat President Joe Biden in the 2024 Democratic primaries, the anti-vaccine conspiracy theorist is finding support from an unlikely source: Republicans.

Kennedy has sat down for an extended interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson. He has hired Republicans for his campaign, including a sitting member of the New Hampshire legislature. His long shot bid to defeat an incumbent from his own party is a frequent topic of glee on conservative talk radio.

And on Wednesday night, Scott Brown, a former Republican senator from Massachusetts, hosted Kennedy for one of his No BS barbecues  making him the first non-Republican afforded that privilege.

Its an honor, Brown said as he introduced Kennedy to an overflow crowd of some 500.

His invitation raised eyebrows in both parties.

I have no idea why Scott Brown as a Republican would be hosting a Democrat, said Steve Duprey, a former Republican National Committee member from New Hampshire. Is it just an attempt to bolster Kennedy and hurt Biden? Who knows.

The New Hampshire Democratic Party chair said thats the obvious reason Republicans are supporting Kennedy, and that Kennedy is happy to take their help.

In my many decades of experience with New Hampshire primaries, Ive never seen a Democratic candidate chase after registered Republicans this hard, Ray Buckley told HuffPost. The truth is that RFK is anti-vax, pro-conspiracy theory, and this campaign is bankrolled by a Trump donor. None of that aligns with the Democratic Party. Seems like hes running in the wrong primary.

Brown, who hosted his political gatherings for GOP candidates in 2016 and now again in this election cycle, said people deserved a chance to hear Kennedys views.

If somebody wants to speak to voters in New Hampshire, they should have a place to do it, he told HuffPost, adding that he was not just trying to weaken Biden to make it easier for a Republican to beat him. I have a relationship with the Kennedy family, obviously, going back to long before I was a U.S. senator ... If he wants to come, Im happy to have him.

Democratic presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appears at former Republican Sen. Scott Brown's

Democratic presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appears at former Republican Sen. Scott Brown's "No BS" barbecue campaign gathering in New Hampshire on Wednesday night.

Scott, though, opened up the question-and-answer part of Kennedys appearance by asking him if he would run as an independent if the Democratic National Committee jammed him by making it difficult for him to win delegates for the nomination. Such a move could hurt Biden in the general election by siphoning off Democratic votes.

If they jam me, Im going to look at every option, Kennedy said, to applause.

Kennedy, who is 69, the son of an assassinated presidential candidate and the nephew of an assassinated president, saw a brief surge in the polls when he announced his candidacy this spring. Since then, though, his numbers have fallen dramatically, and he is now more popular with Republican voters than he is with Democrats.

Indeed, on a number of issues, Kennedy is far more in line with the Trump wing of the Republican Party than he is with the Democratic Party.

Kennedy has said he opposes U.S. support for Ukraine, which continues to fight Russias invasion that began in early 2022. That coincides with most supporters of Donald Trump, who after Vladimir Putin launched his attack on Ukraine, called the Russian dictator a genius for having done so.

Kennedy said in a recent interview that he supports a nationwide abortion ban  although he soon afterward released a statement saying that he did not.

And closest to the hearts of many MAGA Republicans, Kennedy has for decades been an opponent of childhood vaccines, and of late, has been a vocal critic of the COVID-19 vaccines. More recently, he claimed that the disease was engineered to be less lethal to Chinese and Jewish people.

His view on vaccines was one of the things that Karen McLaughlin, 52, said she liked about Kennedy. The two-time Trump voter drove an hour through the rain from Nashua to hear him in person. Hes the only Democrat Id consider, she said as she waited in the line to be wanded by the Kennedy campaigns private security.

So far, I like what I hear, said Mike Sears, who is 54 and also a two-time Trump voter, as he waited in the magnetometer line outside the farmhouse Brown uses for his political meet-and-greets.

The pro-Trump nature of much of the audience became clear when Kennedy began his remarks by pointing out all the things that Americans have in common, such as the desire for a good education and health care.

Drain the swamp! shouted out a voice from the front rows, repeating a favorite Trump slogan.

We all want to drain the swamp, Kennedy agreed.

Related...
Comedian Richard Ayoade and TV host Jonathan Ross are facing criticism after it emerged that their book endorsements feature prominently on a book by controversial Irish writer Graham Linehan .

Linehan, who created or co-created sitcoms including Father Ted and Black Books, will soon release a memoir titled Tough Crowd: How I Made and Lost a Career in Comedy.

He fell out of public favour after several incidents where he expressed anti-transgender or transphobic views, including comparing the use of puberty blockers to Nazi eugenics and experiments on children.

Linehan has repeatedly expressed his belief that he is a victim of cancel culture, and that his views have lost him work and caused his divorce.

Tough Crowd will delve into these topics and feature the 55-year-old berating an industry where there was no one to stand by his side when he needed help.

Some early reviews of the book have been included as part of its online marketing. One notable name quoted alongside the memoir is Linehans former IT Crowd colleague, Ayoade, who played shy computer technician Maurice Moss in the Channel 4 comedy.

Ayoades quote reads: Graham Linehan has long been one of my favourite writers  and this book shows that his brilliance in prose is equal to his brilliance as a screenwriter. It unfolds with the urgency of a Sam Fuller film: that of a man who has been through something that few have experienced but has managed to return, undaunted, to tell us the tale.

A review from Ross hails Linehan as one of the best TV comedy writers of all time. The quote goes on to declare the book a must-read for anyone who has ever wondered: a) how to create a hit sit-com and b) how it feels to lose everything. Its funny, complicated and utterly compelling.

On Thursday (14 September), Ayoades name was trending in the UK on Twitter/X after several social media users shared a screengrab of his quote endorsing the memoir.

Richard Ayoade, Graham Linehan and Jonathan Ross (Getty / PA)

Journalist and transgender activist India Willoughby wrote: The Richard Ayoade endorsement of Graham Linehan is really disappointment  because at this point in the gender war, youd have to use a lot of cognitive dissonance not to see Glinner for who he is.

Elsewhere, another social media user remarked: I think Richard Ayoade is sympathetic to exactly one thing here which is His Mate Having Media to Promote.

When approached by The Independent, a representative of Richard Ayoade declined to comment. A representative of Jonathan Ross did not immediately respond.

Linehan has repeatedly described the trans movement as being paedophilic, and in 2020 was banned from X/Twitter for a hateful conduct rules breach.

His profile was reinstated  alongside a number of other controversial figures, including former US president Donald Trump and rapper Kanye West  when Elon Musk took over the social media platform late last year.

In April 2023, he was temporarily suspended from Twitter again after making a joke about killing protesters at an anti-trans rally in Belfast.

Graham Linehan said he would consider suing Leith Arches for cancelling his gig (Kirsty OConnor/PA) (PA Archive)

Last October, it was revealed that the number of transphobic hate crimes in the UK had risen by 56 per cent compared to the previous year, with a Home Office report linking the increase to discussion on social media.

Speaking to The Times this year, Linehan denied disliking trans people. He said: Trans is so loosely defined. It seems to cover both Eddie Izzard and a 16-year-old girl whos got dysphoria. Theres got to be an understanding of the difference between a transsexual who has been through something immense in their lives and someone whos putting on black fingernail polish and trying to get into the ladies.

As we keep pointing out, we are only talking about places where conflict arises. My point has never changed. Its about women in prison, women in rape crisis centres, women in changing rooms. Its about children. Its about homophobia. Its about an incredible new form of sexism that I think is the worst ever. Ive never seen anything like it. Ive never seen this kind of hate and aggression towards women.
A horse slipped and fell 300 feet down a ravine in a horrific trail riding accident in Colorado, officials said.

A 23-year-old rider was hurt in the accident on the Shadow Canyon Trail on Wednesday, Sept. 13, officials with the Boulder County Sheriffs Office said in a news release. The trail is part of the City of Boulders Open Space and Mountain Parks.

She was riding along the trail with a friend when her horse slipped on a loose rock and fell downhill, officials said.

The rider was thrown off as the horse started sliding down a steep scree slope, officials said. The other rider tried to calm the panicked horse, but it tried to get up and slid even farther down the ravine, officials said.

The horse slid 300 feet below the trail and came to a stop in a creek, officials said.

The rider who was thrown from the falling horse injured her leg but managed to walk a short distance to a rescue vehicle, officials said.

Rescuers drove her out to the trailhead where paramedics evaluated her, officials said. She determined she didnt need further medical care.

A veterinarian who was called to evaluate the horses injuries determined the horse wouldnt survive and said the most humane thing to do would be to put the horse down, officials said. They euthanized the horse and rescuers helped remove the horses body from the ravine and take it back to the trailhead.

Hearts & Hooves Livestock Services took over at the horse owners request, officials said.

Horse falls through rotted wooden bridge in Washington. See the dramatic rescue

Horse frightened by storm gets stuck in a pool, photos show. Then NC rescuers show up

Disturbing photos show stuck horse up to neck in mud. Fortunately rescuers had a plan
U.S. Sen. Jim Risch , R-Idaho, tried to use his position of power and privilege to benefit himself by diverting planes away from his Southwest Boise ranch.

We call that corruption and abuse of power.

According to reporting by the Idaho Statesmans Kevin Fixler, Risch went to great lengths to divert planes taking off from the Boise Airport to fly not over his 44-acre ranch, but over parts of Meridian and Nampa, even though those flight patterns would have been less safe and less efficient.

The lengths that Idahos junior senator went to were extraordinary.

He lobbied the Boise mayors office and the Boise Airport. They said no.

He lobbied the FAA. They told him no.

He spoke directly with the FAA director. He told him no.

When none of that worked, he went to a fellow Republican senator, Ted Cruz of Texas, to get a section slipped into an FAA bill.

Risch used his position of power to gain access to people and processes that are not available to ordinary citizens.

Could you imagine, as a resident of Meridian or Nampa, picking up the phone and speaking with the director of the Federal Aviation Administration to complain about airplane noise over your house?

Or stroll over to Cruzs office and have him surreptitiously slip in a clause in a bill that would benefit you personally?

This was a clear abuse of power for Rischs own benefit.

And it was an abuse that would have harmed the residents of Meridian and Nampa  the people hes supposed to represent  and affected traffic in and out of the Nampa and Caldwell airports.

Funneling the vast majority of louder/large aircraft over one specific point is anything but noise mitigation, J.R. Williams, a longtime commercial pilot who keeps a private plane at the Boise Airport, wrote in an email to Meridian Mayor Robert Simison about the issue. It may be mitigation for Mr. Risch, as overflight over his house would become a criminal misdemeanor.  Sen. Risch doesnt seem to care about the folks in Meridian, Eagle, Star or Nampa. He only wants jets to stay away from his house.

Williams knows what hes talking about. Williams also commands a unit of the A-10s at Gowen Field as a colonel in the Idaho Air National Guard and was previously an Air Force Thunderbird elite aerial jet pilot for 12 years.

Even though Risch claimed that he was acting on behalf of other people who were complaining, no one else has any other evidence of significant complaints. Not the city, not the airport, not even Corey Barton, who has built dozens of houses in the area. The FAA said it didnt have enough complaints to warrant action.

And when asked for evidence of the complaints that he supposedly received, Risch refused to supply them. Not even how many he received.

Risch practically admitted that he was using underhanded tactics to get around protocol when he told Fixler that bypassing federal bureaucracy was the intent behind adding the language to the bill after the FAA wasnt responsive to his request.

Its the equivalent of a public official pulled over for speeding and telling the trooper, Do you know who I am?

This type of petty self-interest, though, is in character for Risch, who in 2018 blocked a vote from taking place on the budget that year until leadership removed a provision renaming the Boulder-White Clouds Wilderness that included the name Cecil Andrus, a former Idaho Democratic governor and political rival of Rischs.

With this latest stunt, it once again looks like Risch represents himself much more than his constituents.

Statesman editorials are the unsigned opinion of the Idaho Statesmans editorial board. Board members are opinion editor Scott McIntosh, opinion writer Bryan Clark, editor Chadd Cripe, newsroom editors Dana Oland and Jim Keyser and community members Mary Rohlfing and Patricia Nilsson.
A 19-year-old man from Covina was arrested and charged with assault with a deadly weapon and vehicle theft after investigators recovered some of his DNA and used it to identify him more than a year after he committed the crimes, authorities announced earlier this month.

The robbery and theft occurred on Aug. 21, 2022, in the 3600 block of Grand Avenue in Chino Hills, according to a news release from the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department.

The suspect, Johnny Lee Richardson, along with another unidentified male suspect, attacked a man who was walking on crutches and had a cast on his leg from a previous injury as he was walking out of a local restaurant, where had been on a date.

Richardson and the other suspect knocked the victim to the ground and proceeded to kick and punch him.

One suspect pointed a gun at the victim and they demanded the victims wallet and vehicle keys. Fearing further injury, the victim submitted to the suspects without resistance. The suspects fled in the victims vehicle from the area, SBSD said.

Later, investigators found the victims vehicle and processed it for evidence, including latent fingerprints and DNA from inside the car.

VIDEO: Suspect in stolen Mercedes GT arrested after pursuit in Orange County

The DNA samples taken from the vehicle came back as a match for Richardson.

On Sept. 7 of this year, authorities with the United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force arrested the Richardson without incident. He was later interviewed by detectives at SBSDs Chino Hills Station.

Richardson was then booked into the West Valley Detention Center.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact SBSDs Chino Hills Station at 909-364-2000. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the WeTip Hotline at 800-782-7463 or submit tips online at WeTip.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
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
On 14 September, the Ministry of National Defence of Romania jointly with the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, announced additional flight restrictions in the airspace, adjacent to the border with Ukraine.

Source: European Pravda, with reference to the statement of the Romanian Defence Ministry

Details: The restrictions came into force on 13 September and concern the region of Northern Dobruja between the settlements of Sulina and Galati and will encompass the territory at a 20-30 km distance from the Romanian border with Ukraine and the altitude of 4,000 m.

Flights on any manned or unmanned aerial vehicles besides state air vessels are forbidden in the determined area of Romanias air space.

Romanias Defence Industry added that the restriction on the flights in the air space adjacent to the border with Ukraine was implemented back in May 2022, but then they covered the distance of 8 km and the altitude of 1000 m.

Quote: "Amid the activation of Russian attacks on the Ukrainian Danube ports, the extension of restrictions is necessary for the facilitation of a more effective monitoring and control of the use of air space."

Background:

In August, drone fragments, likely those of Russian UAVs launched on Ukrainian targets, were found in Romania three times near the Ukrainian border. Due to this, the Romanian authorities expressed their protest to the Russian side and announced additional security measures for the residents of adjacent settlements.

Before that, residents of settlements in Romania's Tulcea district received RO-Alert messages during a Russian drone attack in Ukraine's south on 12-13 September.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Rosh Hashanah is Judaism's holiest day.

Meaning head of the year or first of the year, Rosh Hashanah -- the Jewish new year -- marks the creation of the world. It also marks the beginning of the Jewish High Holy Days leading up to Yom Kippur, the Jewish day of atonement.

Rosh Hashanah is translated from Hebrew to mean the head of the year. Its commemorated with special prayers, foods, gatherings and more.

What to know about Rosh Hashanah: One of the most significant Jewish holidays is here

"These are moments where we come together as a community, where we take time to think about ourselves as individuals, but also think about the ways that we can help others," Rabbi Rob Gleisser, the Peter J. Rubinstein reform senior Jewish educator at Penn State Hillel, told USA TODAY. "Think about the ways that we want to create a safe community, a welcoming community, a warm community and then be able to enrich the world around us after having those moments of introspection."

Here's what you need to know about Rosh Hashanah:

When is Rosh Hashanah 2023?

Rosh Hashanah will begin at sunset on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023 and continue through sundown on Sunday, Sept. 17.

Rabbi Yitzchok Tiechtel reads through passages as he prepares to celebrate Rosh Hashanah at the Chabad Center Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.

The exact date varies every year since it is based on the Hebrew calendar, where Rosh Hashanah begins on the first day of the seventh month. It is almost always in September or October.

The celebration of the new year is the only Jewish holiday that is two days long both inside and outside Israel. Its called yoma arichta, translated as a long day because the 48-hour celebration may be thought of as one extended day.

Why is Rosh Hashanah celebrated?

Rosh Hashanah is often treated as a time to reflect on the previous year and focus on hopes for the coming year, according to Jordan Rosenblum, the Belzer Professor of Classical Judaism and Max and Frieda Weinstein-Bascom Professor of Jewish Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

It's the beginning of the Jewish calendar, and like all new years there are, its a time for sort of taking stock, right? ...

What do I want to improve? You know, the equivalent of joining the gym in January, he said.

Rosh Hashanah is also important for some Jewish people as a celebration of the creation of humanity. It may be referred to as the "birthday of the world," marking the time when God created  or when the breath of life entered  Adam and Eve.

How is Rosh Hashanah celebrated?

Many Jewish people will attend services at synagogues and other spaces for worship on Rosh Hashanah. Jewish congregations will recite special prayers and songs to mark the new year.

Some Jewish communities will blow a Shofar, a curved rams horn.

Its meant to kind of stir you, awaken you to the idea of thinking of new year, taking stock, preparing to atone, and in the month leading up to Rosh Hashanah it begins to be used as a kind of wake up, Rosenblum said. It really kind of pierces the air, and you can't ignore it.

Some Jews may also pray near a body of water in a Tashlich ceremony, in addition to tossing pieces of bread or other food into the water to symbolize sending off sins.

Apples and honey on Rosh Hashanah? Traditional foods for the holiday

What are some traditional Rosh Hashana foods?

Rosh Hashanah celebrations dont just take place within the walls of a synagogue. Many Jews will gather with friends and family to eat special foods and hold commemorations:

Apple honey cake, as part of Rosh Hashanah, prepared by chef Helen Impellizeri at the Jewish Community Center.

Some Jewish people eat apples and honey together to represent a sweet new year.

People may also eat challah, a braided bread, in a round loaf to represent a cycle of the year.

Pomegranate seeds also represent the 613 mitzvot, or commandments, that are cited in the Torah, the Jewish holy book.

"For Rosh Hashanah, in particular, there's just a lot of emphasis on sweetness so that you are stepping into the year with good tastes and good feelings, and with this idea that you want to have a sweet and bountiful year ahead," Rabbi Danielle Leshaw, senior educator and campus support director for Hillel International, told USA TODAY.

What do you say on Rosh Hashanah?

Happy Rosh Hashanah or happy new year are both appropriate greetings if you are talking to Jewish friends, family, co-workers, or classmates around the holiday. You can also say shanah tovah, which means good year in Hebrew.

"Happy New Year is great," Gleisser said. "Happy Rosh Hashanah, thats a beautiful thing to say."

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Rosh Hashanah 2023: What to know about Judaism's holiest day
Rosh Hashanah, one of the most important holidays for Jewish people around the world, is here.

Rosh Hashanah, which translates from Hebrew to mean the head of the year, is one of Judaism's holiest days. The two-day celebration marks the start of the Jewish New Year and is filled with traditions, like eating a round challah and saying prayers near a body of water.

But why is Rosh Hashanah important for Jewish communities? And what do traditions, including special prayers, foods, gatherings and more, mean? Heres what you need to know about Rosh Hashanah ahead of 2023 celebrations:

When is Rosh Hashanah 2023?

Since it is based on the Hebrew calendar, Rosh Hashanah begins on the first day of the seventh month, so this years celebration will begin at sunset on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023 and continue through sundown on Sunday, Sept. 17.

The exact date varies every year but is almost always in September or October.

Rosh Hashanah is the only Jewish holiday that is two days long both inside and outside Israel. Its called yoma arichta, translated as a long day because the 48-hour celebration may be thought of as one extended day.

Rosh Hashanah is often treated as a time to reflect on the previous year and focus on hopes for the coming year, Jordan Rosenblum, the Belzer Professor of Classical Judaism and Max and Frieda Weinstein-Bascom Professor of Jewish Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, told USA TODAY last year.

Joel Friedman and his family observe Tashlich beside the seafront at dusk on Sept. 24, 2020, in Canvey Island, England. The atonement ritual of Tashlich comes from the Hebrew word meaning 'to cast', and refers to the idea of casting away one's sins.

What is Rosh Hashanah? Why is it important?

Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, which are 10 days of introspection and repentance that lead into Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement and most sacred holiday for Jewish people.

Samira Mehta, the director of undergraduate studies in the program for Jewish studies at the University of Colorado Boulder, previously told USA TODAY that the Book of Life, which symbolizes how Jewish people will be judged for the coming year, "opens" on Rosh Hashanah and is sealed on Yom Kippur.

"These are moments where we come together as a community, where we take time to think about ourselves as individuals, but also think about the ways that we can help others," Rabbi Rob Gleisser, the Peter J. Rubinstein reform senior Jewish educator at Penn State Hillel, told USA TODAY. "Think about the ways that we want to create a safe community, a welcoming community, a warm community and then be able to enrich the world around us after having those moments of introspection."

Two Ethiopian Jews perform Tashlich, a Jewish atonement ritual, at a lake formed by the Umanka River on the first day of Rosh Hashanah on September 10, 2018 in Uman, Ukraine.

WORCESTER - Chani Fogelman, whose husband is Rabbi Fogelman, peers through a partition on the women's side of the synagogue during a Rosh Hashanah service at Chabad Lubavitch of Central Massachusetts, marking the beginning of the Jewish New Year and High Holy Days leading to Yom Kippur, Monday, Sept. 26, 2022.

Rosh Hashanah is also important for some Jewish people as a celebration of the creation of humanity. It may be referred to as the "birthday of the world," marking the time when God created  or when the breath of life entered  Adam and Eve.

How is Rosh Hashanah celebrated? Traditions, explained

Jewish people might take time away from work to attend services with special prayers and songs to mark the new year, although celebrations dont just take place within the walls of a synagogue.

Many Jewish communities will blow a Shofar, a curved rams horn, during service.

Marley Finch, 11, left, assists Rabbi Shmuly Gutnick in making a shofar during the Palm Beach Synagogue Rosh Hashanah Royal Extravaganza Sunday September 10, 2023 in Palm Beach.

The Palm Beach Synagogue hosted the Rosh Hashanah Royal Extravaganza Sunday September 10, 2023 in Palm Beach for families.

Its meant to kind of stir you, awaken you to the idea of thinking of new year, taking stock, preparing to atone, and in the month leading up to Rosh Hashanah it begins to be used as a kind of wake up, Rosenblum said. It really kind of pierces the air, and you can't ignore it.

Some Jews may also pray near a body of water in a Tashlich ceremony, in addition to tossing pieces of bread or other food into the water to symbolize sending off sins.

What are some traditional Rosh Hashanah foods?

Many Jews will gather with friends and family to eat special foods and hold commemorations:

Some Jewish people eat apples and honey together to represent a sweet new year.

People may also eat challah, a braided bread, in a round loaf to represent a cycle of the year.

Pomegranate seeds also represent the 613 mitzvot, or commandments, that are cited in the Torah, the Jewish holy book.

Bee Barf Apiaries displays honeycomb during the Palm Beach Synagogue Rosh Hashanah Royal Extravaganza Sunday September 10, 2023 in Palm Beach. It is traditional to eat apples and honey on the holiday for a sweet new year.

"For Rosh Hashanah, in particular, there's just a lot of emphasis on sweetness so that you are stepping into the year with good tastes and good feelings, and with this idea that you want to have a sweet and bountiful year ahead," Rabbi Danielle Leshaw, senior educator and campus support director for Hillel International, told USA TODAY.

Rosh Hashanah greeting: Is it OK to say 'happy Rosh Hashanah'?

Happy Rosh Hashanah or happy new year are both appropriate greetings if you are talking to Jewish friends, family, co-workers, or classmates around the holiday. You can also say shanah tovah, which means good year in Hebrew.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is Rosh Hashanah? When is it? Jewish New Year greeting, food
Rosh Hashanah, one of the largest Jewish holidays of the year, kicks off at sunset on Friday and begins a two-day celebration that leads into a longer stretch culminating in Yom Kippur.

Both are some of the most familiar and important holidays on the Jewish religious calendar. Rosh Hashanah, which can be translated as first or head of the year, marks the start of the Jewish New Year.

The holiday also begins the Jewish High Holy Days that lead to Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year in Judaism, where Jews reflect on sins or wrongdoings from the previous year.

Heres what to know about Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

Heat lightning: Did Floridians see heat lightning during recent storms? Nope, here's what it really was

When is Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur?

Rosh Hashanah starts at sundown on Friday and continues through sundown on Sunday. Yom Kippur begins at sundown on Sept. 24 and continues through the next day.

What is Rosh Hashanah and why is it celebrated?

Rosh Hashanah, sometimes referred to as the birthday of the world, represents the start of the Jewish New Year. Its often spent reflecting on the previous year and hopes for the coming year through special prayers, foods and gatherings.

The celebration of the new year is the only Jewish holiday that is two days long inside and outside Israel. Its called yoma arichta, translated as a long day because the 48-hour celebration may be considered as one extended day.

The Jewish High Holy Days kick off the Friday evening Rosh Hashanah begins. The 10 Days of Awe are when Jews focus their attention on repentance and reflection leading up to Yom Kippur.

According to tradition, the names of the righteous are written in the Book of Life and names of the wicked are written in the Book of Death. Everyone else has 10 days to repent before their fate is sealed in one of the two books.

How is Rosh Hashanah celebrated?

Rosh Hashanah is celebrated by attending services at synagogues and other spaces for worship. Jewish congregations will recite special prayers and songs to mark the new year.

Some Jewish communities will blow a shofar, a curved rams horn. This is also used to observe Yom Kippur to ceremonially conclude the celebration.

During Rosh Hashana, others may also pray near a body of water in a Tashlich ceremony, in addition to tossing pieces of bread or other food into the water to symbolize sending off sins.

What is Yom Kippur?

Yom Kippur is considered the holiest day of the year in Judaism and is when Jews reflect on sins or wrongdoings from the previous year.

Jewish people will spend time attending services at synagogues or other congregations, reciting special prayers and singing special songs.

How to greet people during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur

If youre not sure how to greet someone on Rosh Hashanah, you could just say Shanah Tovah, which means good year in Hebrew. The word umetuka  meaning and sweet  is sometimes added to the end of that phrase as in good and sweet year.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Rosh Hashanah starts tonight. What to know about Jewish New Year
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Police have released surveillance video of a violent robbery outside a Royal Furniture store in East Memphis last month.

They said an employee was leaving the business on August 24 to make a bank deposit when a man armed with a silver and black handgun attacked him and took a bag containing $10,000.

Berclair hardware store hit by smash-and-grab burglars

In the video released Wednesday, the suspect walks behind several cars until he gets near the victim. Once there, he throws the victim to the ground, grabs the black bag, and jumps into a black Nissan sedan.

Police said a co-worker of the victim saw what happened and attempted to follow the Nissan northbound on White Station Road but lost the vehicle when the suspect ran a red light.

Investigators said the Nissan had dark-tinted windows and a sunroof.

If you have any information that can help police find the suspect or know anything about the robbery, you are urged to call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Murder suspect Carlos Reales Dominguez is in Atascadero State Hospital, shipped Wednesday from Woodlands Yolo County Jail, his attorney told a judge Thursday.

The brief morning hearing before Yolo Superior Court Judge David Reed, sitting in for Judge Samuel T. McAdam, brought an anticlimactic close  for now  to one of the darkest chapters in recent Davis history.

The task now for doctors at Atascadero: return Reales Dominguez to competence and restore his ability to face trial on murder and attempted murder charges with special circumstances in the deadly Davis knife attacks that killed two men and left a third woman critically wounded in late April and early May.

The stabbing deaths of David Breaux, 50, and Karim Abou Najm, 20, in separate Davis city parks days apart, followed by the brutal attack on 64-year-old Kimberlee Guillory as she slept unhoused in her tent, ground the college town to a terrified halt amid the manhunt to find the killer.

Dominguez, 21, a UC Davis biological science major who once shone as a high school student-athlete in the East Bay, was dismissed from the university for academic reasons on April 25, just days before the deadly rampage.

Yolo Superior Court Judge Samuel McAdam in June ruled Dominguez  whose appearances were marked by his disheveled appearance and heavy jail-issued safety vest  unfit for trial.

Jurors who would decide his competency at weeks-long hearings in July listened to Dominguezs friends and a former girlfriend; coworkers; and, finally, doctors and medical professionals, who described the former students slide into the apparent mental crisis that allegedly precipitated the attacks.

Dominguez said the devil was talking to him in his dreams, his former girlfriend testified. Dominguezs behavior became increasingly bizarre and isolated, his roommates told jurors. The behavior became so troubling, roommates testified, that they selected one to talk to Dominguez about seeking help.

His attorney, Yolo County deputy public defender Daniel Hutchinson argued schizophrenia fueled his behavior.

Carlos Dominguez is severely mentally ill, Hutchinson told jurors in late July. Dominguez has schizophrenia, Hutchinson argued, symptoms that take away what he once had.

Yolo County prosecutors in August agreed. Dominguez was incompetent to stand trial.

Reed on Thursday set a 90-day review of Dominguezs progress for Dec. 8 in Woodland.

It is unknown how long it will take before Dominguezs competency is restored.
Russian forces in the south of Ukraine are currently on the defensive but are attempting to regain their lost positions, Ukraines Deputy Minister of Defense, Hanna Malyar, said on Ukrainian national television on Sept. 14.

The south is the primary direction of our advance, and throughout the southern region, the enemy is in a defensive posture.

Read also: 27 Russian occupiers dead, 34 injured in friendly-fire incident over mistaken belief of advance on Donetsk air

This means that we are moving forward there, while they are defending. Even though it may appear that the news sounds similar day by day, in reality, the situation is highly dynamic.

Malyar also stated the while Russia is on the defensive, this does not mean its military is merely holding its positions.

This means that intense battles are ongoing in that area. In terms of the number of shelling incidents, if we focus on the southern front, hundreds of thousands of rounds are fired from the enemy, with thousands of shelling incidents occurring. It amounts to 4-5 thousand shelling incidents per week, Malyar said.

Read also: Ukrainian forces liberate part of village of Opytne near Avdiyivka in Donbas  Defense Ministry

Malyar pointed out that the enemy is reluctant to leave the settlements that have already been liberated.

When it comes to Robotyne  the positions that we have already occupied and even fortified, we still find ourselves defending these areas against Russian assaults because they (the Russians) aim to regain their lost positions, she added.

Ukrainian counteroffensive  Latest updates

A new phase of Ukraine's counter-offensive has now begun, with the main thrust in the southeast, where Ukrainian forces were gradually advancing through minefields and under Russian airstrikes, U.S. newspaper the New York Times reported earlier.

Read also: Ukraines counter-offensive is an active, dynamic, but very long process  Malyar

Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valerii Zaluzhnyi, responding earlier to criticism of the slow pace of the counter-offensive, told U.S. officials that Ukrainian forces were on the verge of a breakthrough in their southern counter-offensive, U.S. newspaper the Wall Street Journal reported on Aug. 24, citing an unnamed U.S. official.

Meanwhile, Malyar confirmed the liberation of the village of Robotyne in Zaporizhzhya Oblast by the Ukrainian military on Aug. 28. The Ukrainian Armed Forces have since been advancing further towards the Novodanylivka-Verbove area in southern Ukraine.

Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, commander of the Tavria operational group in the southern part of the country, confirmed on Sept. 2 that Ukrainian forces had breached the first Russian defense line in Zaporizhzhya Oblast.

Ukrainian forces have liberated part of the village of Opytne south of the front-line town of Avdiyivka in Donetsk Oblast, Malyar said on Sept. 11.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The Russian Defense Ministry claimed that air defense units shot down 11 drones over occupied Crimea while a Black Sea patrol ship destroyed five naval drones, Russian state news outlet RIA Novosti reported on Sept. 14.

The drones were allegedly intercepted in the early hours of Sept. 14, following reports of traffic closures on the Crimean Bridge and explosions in Yevpatoriia.

The Defense Ministry claimed that five Ukrainian sea drones attempted to strike a Russian military vessel, the "Sergey Kotov," patrolling the Black Sea. The ministry claimed that the ship fired weapons at the drones, destroying all five.

In addition, the ministry claimed that Russian air defense units shot down 11 drones flying over occupied Crimea.

Local residents told Suspilne news that several powerful explosions rocked the coastal city of Yevpatoriia on Sept. 14. The blasts were heard near Uyutne, a village on the western outskirts of the city.

Ambulances and rescue vehicles were reported in the area of the explosions.

Residents also said that the explosions occurred in an area where a Russian military unit was stationed.

Other media channels in occupied Crimea claimed that the blast waves were strong enough to shake houses in the area.

Natalia Humeniuk, the spokesperson of Ukraine's Southern Operational Command, pointed out that many Russian military facilities, including an airfield, are located in Yevpatoriia, making it a legitimate target.

However, she did not say explicitly whether Ukrainian forces were behind the strike.

Earlier on the night of Sept. 14, at around 5:15 a.m. local time, Russian state media reported that occupation authorities in Crimea had shut down traffic on the Crimean Bridge.

Located on the eastern side of the Crimean peninsula, the bridge spans the Kerch Strait. It was built following Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014, and has been the target of Ukrainian military strikes.

On Sept. 13, a Ukrainian strike on a shipyard in Sevastopol in damaged two Russian military vessels.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Strike on shipyard in occupied Sevastopol damages 2 Russian vessels

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The Russian Defense Ministry claimed that four drones were intercepted over Bryansk Oblast on Sept. 14.

According to the Defense Ministry, air defense units shot down two drones over Bryansk Oblast shortly after midnight local time on Sept. 14. Twenty minutes later, the ministry announced that air defense destroyed a third drone in the same region.

Fifteen minutes later, the ministry claimed a fourth drone had been intercepted over Bryansk Oblast.

No details about casualties or damage from falling debris was reported.

The Russian Defense Ministry attributed the attempted drone strikes to Ukraine.

Bryansk Oblast borders Ukraine to the northeast. Reports of drone attacks and attempts in the oblast have increased in recent weeks, as more aerial attacks have been reported within the Russian Federation.

Read also: Head-first into the future: Inside the race to win the drone war in Ukraine

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Bulgaria is negotiating with its NATO allies on how to respond to Russian provocations in the Black Sea, in particular to Russia's partial blockade of its Black Sea exclusive economic zone.

Source: European Pravda, citing Todor Tagarev, Minister of Defence of Bulgaria; Euractiv

Details: Tagarev said that Russia has declared part of the Bulgarian economic zone in the Black Sea closed to shipping until the end of September due to military exercises in the area. And he emphasised that Bulgaria considers these actions a provocation.

Quote from Tagarev: "Bulgaria is discussing a response to these provocations  both independently and with our NATO allies."

Details: Asked by Euractiv whether Bulgaria has developed scenarios in case of a Russian attack on cargo ships heading from Ukrainian ports through Bulgarian waters or the economic zone in the Black Sea, the Ministry of Defence replied that there are no such scenarios.

"At the moment, there is no immediate risk or threat of an attack against merchant vessel sailing in the territorial sea of a NATO member state.

These waters are under the sovereignty of each coastal state and are part of the state territory. An attack in the territorial sea can be considered as an attack on the Republic of Bulgaria and NATO as a whole," the ministry added.

Details: The ministry said that the naval forces of Bulgaria, Romania and Turkiye increased their vigilance, continuing to perform tasks with their own forces and means to ensure the safety of merchant ships passing through the Black Sea.

The ministry also stated that additional measures to ensure shipping safety in economic zones "can only be provided by NATO actions, following the UN Charter and international maritime law, coordinated with other regional partners."

"The Bulgarian position regarding security in the Black Sea has always been based on the principle of allied solidarity, allied actions and allied guarantees within the framework of NATO. When making such an alliance decision, Bulgaria would contribute according to its capabilities," the country's position on Russia's actions in the Black Sea reads.

Asked whether the routes of cargo ships transporting grain through Bulgaria's economic zone in the Black Sea could be coordinated, the ministry said there is no legal basis for this.

Background:

A week ago, the Bulgarian government allocated almost 20 million to purchase missiles and torpedoes for the navy.

The country is also interested in urgently purchasing RBS-15 missile systems for the coast guard from the Swedish company Saab.

Earlier, Tagarev assumed that there could be a clash between Russia and NATO in the Black Sea.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
New sci-tech park to gain traction

08:38, September 14, 2023 By WANG XU in Shenzhen, Guangdong ( China Daily

An aerial view shows Shenzhen Park in the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone in Guangdong province. LIANG XU/XINHUA

Guangdong to enhance ties with HKSAR, support for Hetao zone

The development of Shenzhen Park in the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone will soon gain traction as Guangdong province is integrating resources of different departments and administrations to fulfill its commitment to building the park into a platform that attracts top innovation resources from around the world.

During a Tuesday news conference in Shenzhen, Zhu Wei, deputy director of the Guangdong provincial development and reform commission, outlined four main tasks for the development of Shenzhen Park  promoting international scientific and technological innovation through collaboration with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, establishing the park as an internationally competitive industrial pilot production base and creating an internationalized mechanism for scientific and technological innovation.

"Shenzhen Park plays a unique role as a platform and channel due to its advantageous geographical location between Hong Kong's northern metropolitan area and the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Corridor," Zhu said.

The park could also benefit from the strong innovation vitality supported by Shenzhen's robust industrial innovation capabilities and the research capabilities of Hong Kong universities, he added.

Wu Shiwen, deputy director of the sci-tech department of Guangdong, said a team has been formed to spur scientific and technological innovation cooperation between the province and the HKSAR, with the total allocation of research funds from the provincial finance department exceeding 370 million yuan ($50.8 million). In addition, some major sci-tech infrastructure, such as the China Spallation Neutron Source, and other supportive resources are now available for Hong Kong and Macao researchers.

Zhang Ke, deputy head of Customs in Guangdong, said they will provide precise assistance to scientific research institutions and enterprises in the cooperation zone.

"We have actively engaged with research institutions and companies to learn and address issues and concerns, such as registration and account establishment," Zhang said.

The State Council, China's Cabinet, unveiled a plan last month to boost the high-quality development of Shenzhen Park in the Hetao sci-tech zone, which is jointly being developed by Shenzhen and Hong Kong.

"So far, 10 major platforms, mostly various research institutes, and 10 major Hong Kong university research projects have settled in Shenzhen Park and more than 150 high-end science and innovation projects are being implemented in the park, which has formed industrial advantages in information technology, quantum technology and biopharmaceuticals," said Huang Min, executive vice-mayor of Shenzhen.

"Shenzhen has prepared a total of 800,000 square meters of space for research and industrial use, and 11 industrial parks have begun operations in Shenzhen Park."

Yi Yang in Shenzhen contributed to this story.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
AMMAN, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Jordan on Thursday dispatched a second plane carrying a rescue team and humanitarian assistance to flood-hit Libya to support its rescue and relief operation.

Jordan's Foreign Ministry said on Thursday in a statement that the plane was sent upon an order by King Abdullah II and in coordination with the armed forces, the Public Security Directorate, and the government-run Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation (JHCO).

Sinan Majali, the ministry's spokesperson, said the team includes 88 members, of whom five are physicians.

The team has taken part in several international rescue missions, said the statement.

Earlier, Jordan sent its first relief plane, loaded with humanitarian aid including blankets, mattresses, and foodstuff, to eastern Libya, according to a statement by the JHCO.

The death toll from the storm-induced floods that struck eastern Libya has risen to 5,500, with another 7,000 injured, about 10,000 reported missing, and 30,000 displaced, according to Libya's Tripoli-based emergency services on Wednesday. 
Last year, a Russian jet released a missile near a British Royal Air Force reconnaissance aircraft.

At the time, Russia claimed it was a "technical malfunction"  an explanation accepted by the UK.

But a new BBC report found that the pilot actually tried to shoot down the NATO aircraft but failed.

Russia covered up a fighter jet pilot's attempt to shoot down a NATO aircraft near Ukraine last year, blaming it on a malfunction, the BBC reported on Thursday.

The pilot of a Russian SU-27 fighter jet fired two missiles at a British RAF RC-135 Rivet Joint surveillance aircraft on September 29 last year.

At the time, Russia claimed it was a "technical malfunction"  an explanation accepted by British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace.

But three senior Western defense sources with knowledge of the incident told the BBC that new intercepted communications reveal that the pilot believed that he had permission to fire at the RAF, but that he missed.

One missile did not hit the target, while another either malfunctioned or was aborted the moment after it left the wing of the aircraft, the sources said.

The RAF plane, which had a crew of up to 30 people, was flying a surveillance mission over the Black Sea in international airspace when it came into contact with two Russian SU-27 fighter jets.

At the time, the Russian pilots received an apparent command from their ground station controller, who according to one Western source, told them loosely: "You have the target," the BBC reported.

One of the pilots thought it was a command to fire so released an air-to-air missile, which successfully launched but failed to lock on to its target, the BBC reported.

According to radio communications picked up by the RAF surveillance plane, the other pilot of the Su-27 swore at his colleague and asked him what he thought he was doing.

But this didn't stop the first pilot from releasing another missile, though this one either malfunctioned or was aborted, the sources said.

The Ministry of Defence told the BBC that the incident is "a stark reminder of the potential consequences of [Vladimir] Putin's barbaric invasion of Ukraine," but did not reveal the exact communications between the pilots.

At the time of the incident, a US official told The New York Times that the near-miss was "really, really scary."

It highlights the lack of professionalism of Russia's air force, the newspaper reported.

Since the incident, RAF flights have been escorted by Typhoon fighter jets armed with air-to-air missiles.

A spokesperson for Russia's Ministry of Defense did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
On 14 September, the Russian Foreign Ministry informed US Ambassador Lynn Tracy of the announcement of the first and second secretaries of the American Embassy persona non grata in Russia due to alleged involvement in the collection of secret data.

Source: statement on the website of the Russian Foreign Ministry, quoted by European Pravda

Details: This decision concerns Jeffrey Sillin, the First Secretary of the US embassy in Moscow, and David Bernstein, the Second Secretary of the embassy.

They were ordered to leave the territory of Russia within 7 days.

Quote from the Russian Foreign Ministry: "These embassy employees conducted illegal activities by liaising with Russian citizen Robert Shonov, who has been accused of confidential collaboration with a foreign state. He accepted money for fulfilling the missions aimed at undermining the national security of the Russian Federation."

Details: The names of two American diplomats appear in the investigation of the Russian Federal Security Service against Russian citizen Robert Shonov, a former employee of the US Consulate General in Vladivostok, who was detained in August this year.

The FSB claims that since September 2022, in exchange for "material reward" Shonov has been collecting information about a full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, mobilisation in Russia, "problematic issues and an assessment of their impact on the protest activity of the population."

During the "interrogation," the video of which the FSB published at the end of August, Shonov allegedly admitted that he acted on the instructions of Sillin and Bernstein, employees of the political department of the US Embassy. The Russian side said they wanted to interrogate them.

Background:

This February, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs handed over a note to the US Embassy in Moscow, demanding "to stop interfering in their internal affairs," and threatened to expel American diplomats suspected of "subversive activities."

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
The wreckage of the downed Shahed, archive photo

Russia launched another massive drone strike against Ukraine overnight dispatching 22 Iranian-designed Shahed suicide drones, 17 of which were destroyed, the Ukrainian military reported on Sep. 14.

Air raid alerts sounded across the country, with drone sightings reported in Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk, and Sumy oblasts. No casualties have been reported.

Read also: Six civilians injured in mass Russian drone attack, Odesa ports primary target

Four explosions were reported in Sumy Oblast in the northeast of Ukraine, and fires were reported in the Yunakivska and Novoslobidska communities.

Read also: Romania summons Russian envoy over drone debris

Three UAVs were shot down in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. A private house was damaged by falling debris.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Engineers readied a Russian Soyuz spacecraft for launch Friday to carry a veteran cosmonaut commander, a rookie co-pilot and a NASA astronaut on a flight to the International Space Station.

NASA's Loral O'Hara, making her first space flight, veteran commander Oleg Kononenko and Nikolai Chub are scheduled for liftoff from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan at 11:44 a.m. EDT (8:44 p.m. local time) Friday.

The Soyuz 2.1a rocket and Soyuz MS-24/70S crew spacecraft on the launch pad at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, poised for launch Friday at 11:44 a.m. EDT (8:44 p.m. local time). / Credit: NASA/Bill Ingalls

The launching was timed to set up a fast-track three-hour, 11-minute rendezvous with the space station and if all goes well, the Soyuz MS-24/70S ferry ship will dock at the Earth-facing port of the Russian Rassvet module at 2:56 p.m.

Kononenko, Chub and O'Hara are replacing another Soyuz crew  commander Sergey Prokopyev, co-pilot Dmitri Petelin and NASA astronaut Frank Rubio  who were launched to the station last September. They plan to return to Earth on Sept. 27 to wrap up an extended 371-day mission, the longest single space flight yet by an American astronaut.

The trio originally expected to come home in March, but their flight was stretched out an additional six months after their Soyuz MS-22/68S spacecraft was disabled by a coolant leak last December. They'll now come back to Earth aboard a replacement Soyuz launched last February.

The Soyuz MS-24/70S crew during training (left to right): NASA astronaut Loral O'Hara, commander Oleg Kononenko and co-pilot Nikolai Chub. / Credit: Roscosmos

As it turns out, Kononenko and Chub plan to spend a full year aboard the station as well while O'Hara's tour of duty will last six months.

To get everyone up and down as required, the Russians plan to launch a so-called "taxi" flight next March when veteran commander Oleg Novitskiy, NASA's Tracy Dyson and Belarus researcher Marina Vasilevskaya deliver a fresh ferry ship to the station.

Novitskiy, Vasilevskaya and O'Hara then will return to Earth about 10 days later aboard the same Soyuz that carries O'Hara aloft on Friday. Kononenko, Chub and Dyson will remain in orbit until next September, coming home aboard the Soyuz MS-25/71S Soyuz that will be delivered by Novitskiy.

Migrant center housing unaccompanied minors reopens in Texas

Lawmakers weigh in on Hunter Biden indictment

Lahaina couple have baby weeks after fleeing Maui wildfires
The State and Treasury departments announced new sanctions against Russia on Thursday, targeting Russian companies engaged in sanction evasion and those in the countrys energy industry in an attempt to further weaken its economy.

The combined efforts from the two departments target more than 150 individuals and companies in Russia, including mining magnate and oligarch Andrei Bokarev and his family.

A small number of companies and individuals in Georgia, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey were also sanctioned for assisting the Russian war effort.

With todays sanctions, the United States is continuing our relentless work to target Russias military supply chains and deprive Putin of the equipment, technology, and services he needs to wage his barbaric war on Ukraine, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said in a statement.

We have also made clear that those individuals and entities who profit from invasion and their proximity to the Kremlin will be held accountable, and todays actions show our global reach in imposing severe costs on Putins oligarchs, she added.

The sanctions are mostly focused on limiting ways to get around the sanctions already in place through closing loopholes and sanctioning new companies and foreign firms that assist already sanctioned companies.

About half of the State Departments new sanctions are related to the Russian energy industry, which is a major source of funding for the country. It includes engineering firms and construction companies involved in building new energy infrastructure.

Future energy development targets include efforts to drill for natural gas in the Arctic. Russias Arctic LNG 2 project would be one of the largest in the country and is set to start production later this year.

New U.S. sanctions are similarly targeting the Russian mining and mineral sectors, as well as technology firms in the country.

The purpose of the action is to restrict Russias defense production capacity and to reduce the liquidity it has to pay for its war, James OBrien, head of the State Departments Office of Sanctions Coordination, told The Associated Press.

The war in Ukraine has raged for over a year and a half, with Ukraine in the midst of a counteroffensive in the countrys east and south, trying to break through heavily fortified Russian lines.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia on Thursday said the United States was hypocritical to criticise President Vladimir Putin 's summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un because Washington had sown chaos and sent weapons to allies across the world.

"The United States has no right to lecture us on how to live," Russia's ambassador to the United States, Anatoly Antonov, said in a statement.

For the United States and allies, the burgeoning friendship between Kim and Putin is a concern: Washington has accused North Korea of providing arms to Russia, but it is unclear whether any deliveries have been made.

The United States, Antonov said, had built up a coalition in Asia, expanded military drills near the Korean peninsula and was supplying billions of dollars of weapons to Ukraine.

"It is time for Washington to throw its economic sanctions into the rubbish dump," Antonov said. "Maintaining the unipolar dominance so beloved by American officials is no longer possible."

(Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Mark Trevelyan)
Russian forces shelled nine communities in Sumy Oblast on Sept. 13, firing more than 130 rounds from various types of weapons, the Sumy Oblast Military Administration reported on Telegram.

According to the post, Russia shelled the Bilopillia, Khotin, Velyka Pysarivka, Esman, Krasnopillia, Yunakivka, Mykolaiv, Seredyna-Buda, and Nova Sloboda communities.

Russian forces used mortars and artillery to target the Velyka Pysarivka community. damaging a school, a club house, a private residence and a car.

No casualties have been reported following the shelling, according to the post.

Sumy Oblast is located on Ukraine's northeastern border with Russia. It has been the target of daily Russian shelling and attacks from across the border since parts of the oblast were liberated from Russian troops in early April 2022.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Strike on shipyard in occupied Sevastopol damages 2 Russian vessels

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
A year ago, a Russian Su-27 aircraft pilot tried to shoot down a UK Royal Armed Forces (RAF) surveillance plane above the Black Sea and launched two missiles thinking he was given permission to fire, even though officially Moscow and London provided a different version of events.

Source: BBC with reference to three sources in Western defence circles, cited by European Pravda

Details: On 29 September 2022, the RAF RC-135 Rivet Joint aircraft with a crew of up to 30 persons was on a surveillance mission in the international air space above the Black Sea, when two Russian Su-27 fighter jets interjected.

When two Russian Su-27 aircraft approached the UK plane they received a message from a ground dispatcher. One Western source reported that what they heard was: "You have the target". This ambiguous language was interpreted by one of the Russian pilots as permission to fire.

The sources reported that such loose language is a sign of a high level of unprofessionalism of the persons involved in this incident. For instance, the NATO pilots use very precise language when asking for and receiving permission to fire.

Having heard the command, the Russian pilot launched an air-to-air missile but failed to lock on to its target. Sources report that a row then broke out between the two Russian pilots.

The pilot of the second Su-27 did not think they were permitted to fire. He swore at his colleague asking him whether he was even thinking what he was doing.

Despite this, the first pilot released another missile. Sources state that the second missile simply fell which means that it either malfunctioned or that the launch was aborted.

In three weeks, the UK government confirmed that this incident did occur.

The official London accepted the explanations of the Russian side which claimed it was a "technical malfunction".

In a statement to MPs on 20 October, then-State Defence Secretary Ben Wallace called it a "potentially dangerous engagement". But he accepted the Russian explanation, saying: "We do not consider this incident to constitute a deliberate escalation on the part of the Russians, and our analysis concurs that it was due to a malfunction."

However, a secret intelligence leak revealed that the US military spoke of what happened in more stark terms. In a raft of documents posted by US airman Jack Teixera, the same incident was described as "a near shoot-down".

"The incident was far more serious than originally portrayed and could have amounted to an act of war," the New York Times reported.

According to two US defence officials, the newspaper said, the Russian pilot had misinterpreted an order from the ground. The Russian pilot "who'd locked on the British Aircraft, fired, but the missile did not launch properly".

The newspaper also quoted an unnamed US defence official describing the incident "as really, really scary".

Tobias Ellwood, Chair of the Defence Select Committee of the UK Parliament, who has recently resigned, accused Wallace of withholding important details about the surveillance plane incident.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
More details have emerged about the incident last September in which the pilot of a Russian Su-27 Flanker fired a missile in the vicinity of a U.K. Royal Air Force RC-135W Rivet Joint surveillance aircraft over the Black Sea. The missile launch, which we reported on at the time, had been explained by Russia as a technical malfunction, a theory that the U.K. Ministry of Defense had also publicly backed. Subsequently, leaked classified materials from the U.S. Department of Defense suggested that the missile was actually fired deliberately after the Flanker pilot misunderstood an order. The U.K.s public service broadcaster now reports that two missiles were fired, with the first missing its target, rather than malfunctioning.

Armed with live air-to-air missiles, a Russian Su-27 Flanker is photographed from an RAF Typhoon. Crown Copyright

The latest revelations, if true, suggest that the entire episode could have been much closer to being a major diplomatic crisis and tragedy, had the missile not simply missed its target.

The BBC says that it received more details about the close call from three senior Western defense sources with knowledge of the incident.

The original account

The encounter between the RAF RC-135 and the Russian Su-27s took place over the Black Sea last September 29. Initial details were disclosed by the then U.K. Defense Secretary Ben Wallace, during a speech in the House of Commons in October.

https://www.twitter.com/air_intel/status/1583059425006604288?s=20

Wallace said that the unarmed RAF RC-135 Rivet Joint, flying from its base at RAF Waddington in the United Kingdom, was interacted with by two Russian Su-27s, which shadowed it for a total of around 90 minutes. One of the Russian fighters released a missile in the vicinity of the RAF Rivet Joint [from] beyond visual range.

https://www.twitter.com/SkyNews/status/1583060188168622080?s=20

The U.K. defense secretary described the event as a potentially dangerous engagement but not a deliberate escalation.

Describing the missile release, the British defense secretary said: Our analysis would concur it was a malfunction. This was the same explanation provided by Russian officials, too.

The Pentagon leak

In April this year, however, a new account emerged, part of the leak of hundreds of classified Pentagon documents.

These documents first brought up the possibility that the Su-27 pilot had misunderstood an order given to him by a ground control intercept (GCI) operator and had fired an air-to-air missile at the spy plane deliberately. The same account did, however, agree that the weapon had suffered a technical malfunction.

A Russian Su-27 fighter lands on the airfield of Belbek military airport outside Sevastopol on November 26, 2014. At this point, Russian airpower in Crimea was being reinforced after the annexation of the peninsula. Photo by YURIY LASHOV/AFP via Getty Images

The U.K. Ministry of Defense was quick to question the reliability of these classified Pentagon documents, issuing a warning about a serious level of inaccuracy in the leaked information. The defense ministry added that readers should be cautious about taking at face value allegations that have the potential to spread disinformation.

However, the claim from the leaked documents was also supported by two unnamed U.S. defense officials, who spoke to the New York Times about the incident . One of those U.S. defense officials described the incident  which occurred over international waters  as really, really scary.

The same article added some more details, including the fact that the two Su-27s involved were not within visual range of the RC-135 but were equipped with beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles and that one of the Russian pilots achieved a successful missile lock on the British aircraft, before launching their weapon. The article stated that the incident occurred off the coast of Russian-occupied Crimea, already an international hot spot due to the war in Ukraine.

The first RC-135W Rivet Joint for the United Kingdom lands at RAF Waddington in November 2013. Crown Copyright

The latest revelations

Providing that the three senior Western defense sources that spoke to the BBC are correct in their assessment, we now have a much clearer picture of what likely happened.

Those sources, like those who spoke to the New York Times, say that they were party to Russian communications intercepted by the RC-135 during the mission.

Again, the intercepted communications are said to show that one of the Russian pilots mistakenly thought they had permission to engage the RC-135.

An official Royal Air Force factsheet on the RC-135W Rivet Joint. Crown Copyright

According to the BBC, one of the sources said the pilot received words to the effect of you have the target. It was this ambiguous language that led to the pilots misinterpretation  and a deliberate missile launch.

Suddenly aware of what was happening, the second Russian pilot remonstrated with his wingman after he fired the first missile. This led to a full-on argument between them, complete with expletives. That first missile successfully launched but failed to lock on to its target, the BBC has been told. It was a miss, not a malfunction.

A screencap of a Su-27 combat air patrol from a Russian Ministry of Defense video. Note that the pilot is not equipped with a helmet-mounted sight. Zvezda TV screencap

Even after this dressing down from the wingman, the first pilot then fired another missile toward the RC-135. The BBC account says that the second missile simply fell from the wing  suggesting the weapon either malfunctioned or that the launch was aborted.

Of course, this could also be the missile that had a technical malfunction, as originally claimed by the U.K. Ministry of Defense and its Russian counterpart and then repeated by the U.S. defense officials in the New York Times story.

A Russian Su-30SM fighter firing the same R-27 and R-73 missiles as also routinely carried by the Su-27:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFV8bwNhHD0

The War Zone has reached out to the U.K. Ministry of Defense for clarification and their spokesperson provided the following statement:

Following an incident last September between an RAF Rivet Joint aircraft and two Russian Su-27 fighter jets over the Black Sea, the former Defense Secretary informed the House of Commons within three weeks of the event occurring in the interest of transparency and safety.

Our intent has always been to protect the safety of our operations, avoid unnecessary escalation, and inform the public and international community. This incident is a stark reminder of the potential consequences of Putins barbaric invasion of Ukraine.

There is growing evidence to suggest that this really was a near shootdown and one that would have been deliberate, at least as far as the launching pilots actions are concerned. Certainly, it raises some very serious questions about the professionalism of Russian pilots during routine operations in a strategically vital part of the world, where tensions are already ratcheted up.

Perhaps more worrying still is that this doesnt seem to have been an entirely freak situation. After all, in an incident in March this year, a Russian Su-27 brought down a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper surveillance drone over the Black Sea. A video released by the Pentagon soon after seems to confirm that one of the Su-27s struck the drones propeller, although it remains unclear to what degree that action was deliberate or a misjudgment. Nevertheless, the Flanker pilot was awarded a medal for their actions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqsSYp-51Hs

You can read our initial reporting of the MQ-9 incident here as well as our analysis of a video that was purportedly shot from the cockpit of one of the two Su-27s here , and of sensor imagery taken from the drone itself, here .

https://www.twitter.com/Capt_Navy/status/1635939047376863232?s=20

There have been reports of other air-to-air incidents between NATO and Russian aircraft since the September 29 encounter. Between October 1 and February 22, for example, it was reported that British, French, and U.S. aircraft reacted to six different events in which Russian aircraft approached their patrols. In one incident , on December 30, 2022, it seems a British RC-135 escorted by two Typhoon fighters, was intercepted by Russian jets that came within 100 feet.

Typhoon fighter escorts have been a regular part of RC-135 missions over the Black Sea ever since the near-miss and following a brief pause in RAF Rivet Joint operations in this region.

A Russian Su-27 Flanker banks away from an RAF Typhoon in international airspace over the Baltic Sea in June 2014. The Russian fighter is armed with a mix of radar- and infrared-guided R-27 and heat-seeking R-73 air-to-air missiles. Crown Copyright

https://www.twitter.com/TheBaseLeg/status/1583055914940366848?s=20

Generally, Russian pilots have a reputation for sometimes aggressive intercepts of NATO and allied aircraft in international airspace. Although the Pentagon, especially, is quick to accuse Russian pilots of unprofessionalism, its arguable just how many of these highlighted intercepts are genuinely reckless.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGL5shiPGCQ

In the case of the September 29 encounter between the RC-135 and the Su-27s, there is, however, no doubt that the outcome could have been much, much worse. It appears that a whole range of different safeguards were essentially overridden by a trigger-happy or panicked pilot. After all, the rules of engagement that would have existed in international airspace should have precluded anything like this happening. A visual ID would normally be required to show the pilot that what they were firing upon was a genuine threat, or showing hostile intent, neither of which was the case. There also should have been further confirmations with the GCI station to confirm what was happening.

Aside from all those steps to verify an actual hostile aircraft, there should have been various physical measures surrounding weapons arming to prevent the pilot from accidentally hitting the trigger and releasing a missile. Typically, these are the master arm and last arm switches, followed by the trigger itself.

A simple communication misunderstanding should never be enough to get to the point of firing on another aircraft, especially one that has not been IDd and is obviously in international airspace.

The War Zone spoke to Air Marshal Greg Bagwell, a former deputy commander of the RAF, who pointed out the use of clearly identifiable brevity codewords in NATO operations, including the familiar bandit for an identified hostile aircraft.

There are a bunch of other words that youd use for an unidentified or an unknown and youd make your decisions or your acts off the back of that and then have to add extra information in order to confirm what it was, Bagwell explained. Now, if he had misheard  a contact or target or bogey or bandit, as we would use those sorts of words  maybe the bloke just went Right, Im cleared to fire, and literally made the last-arm switch, pulled the trigger and off it went.

Bagwell also noted that its unusual that the Su-27 pilot didnt cross-check the upcoming engagement with his wingman, for example, to avoid both jets firing at the same target at the same, time as well as to simply confirm that the order that he thought he had heard was real.

https://www.twitter.com/gregbagwell/status/1702227943903117345?s=20

Bagwell also raised the possibility that, on realizing the scale of his error, the culprit pilot may have deliberately broken the lock on his first (radar-guided) missile, stopping it from homing on the RC-135, and then jettisoned the second missile, leaving it to fall away into the sea and making the story of a technical malfunction more plausible. At the same time, the age and sometimes poor maintenance standards that exist in the Russian Aerospace Forces may have genuinely resulted in two missile failures. A missile failing to perform as advertised once in combat is hardly a new phenomenon and also affects more modern missile types .

Even without the missile reaching its target, it seems that the U.K. and Russian defense ministries may have been forced to downplay what happened as a means of avoiding escalation since they both pushed the story of a technical malfunction.

This is hardly an ideal situation, especially with very regular surveillance flights over the Black Sea and the backdrop of heightened tensions between Russia and the West as a result of the war in Ukraine. The Cold War sadly gives us plenty of examples of surveillance aircraft, in particular, having been engaged by fighters, mainly from the Soviet Union. While hardly comparable to those times, the latest allegations about the September 29 incident provide a salutary reminder about the high stakes involved in these kinds of aerial encounters and the very real need for cool heads in all quarters.

Contact the author: thomas@thedrive.com
Ukraines Defence Forces shot down three Russian drones over Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on the night of 13-14 September, with debris from the Shaheds partially destroying a private residential building and damaging six more.

Source: Air Force of Ukraine; Serhii Lysak, Head of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Military Administration; Mykola Lukashuk, Head of Dnipro Oblast Council

Quote: "At night, the defenders of the skies from Operational Command Skhid (East) shot down three drones over the oblast.

Debris from one of them landed in Pershotravneve hromada, Nikopol district. A private residential building was partially destroyed. Another six were damaged. Eight outbuildings and three cars were also damaged. Dry grass caught fire, and firefighters extinguished the fire."

[A hromada is an administrative unit designating a town, village or several villages and their adjacent territories - ed.]

Details: During the night, the Russians attacked Nikopol district four times. They attacked Marhanets hromada three times with GRAD multiple-launch rocket systems and artillery.

In total, on the night of 13-14 September 2023, from 21:00 to 02:30, the Russian forces attacked Ukraine with several groups of Shahed-136/131 strike UAVs from three directions: Cape Chauda, Crimea, and Yeysk and Kursk, Russia.

A total of 22 Shaheds were launched towards Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipro and Sumy oblasts.

As a result of combat operations overnight, air defence destroyed 17 out of 22 Shahed-136/131 strike UAVs.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
CANBERRA, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Reinforcements have been called in to fight a major bushfire in Australia's Northern Territory (NT) as it continues to spread toward the town of Tennant Creek.

Tony Fuller, the chief fire control officer for the NT, told a press conference on Wednesday night that water bombers and fire fighting crews from South Australia (SA) have been called in to help contain the blaze, which has been burning for over a week.

Fuller said that as of Wednesday the fire had burned 10,000 square km of land in the Barkly Region of the NT, approximately 1,000 km south of Darwin, and was being propelled west toward Tennant Creek by winds exceeding 50 km per hour.

Crews worked overnight on Tuesday to establish containment lines around Tennant Creek, with a particular focus on the Gosse River to the east, to slow the fire's spread and protect the central Australian town of more than 3,000 people.

Fuller said that despite those efforts the fire has breached multiple containment lines.

"Overnight we had some, what we thought were pretty good containment lines in, there was aerial incendiary work done around Gosse River," he told reporters on Wednesday.

"This morning, as the winds picked up, there was a containment line to the north that has been broken and the fire is rapidly going across some country that we're unable to stop it on."

"There was aerial bombing, as well as some attempts for some machinery to get in front of it, but the fire is just running too fast, about five or 6 km an hour," Fuller added. "It may come pretty close to Tennant Creek itself."

The NT government declared an emergency situation for Tennant Creek on Tuesday, granting authorities additional powers to order evacuations and seize assets if needed.

However, Fuller said on Wednesday that evacuations were not currently being considered. 
Russia carries out up to 15 illegal archaeological excavations in occupied Crimea every year, as Russian archaeologists themselves state in their reports. The further fate of the items found in this way is unknown.

Source: Oksana Lifantii, archaeologist, museologist and specialist in Scythian culture, in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda

Quote: "This [such a number of excavations  UP] is quite a lot for such a small region. Before the occupation, there were slightly fewer expeditions in Crimea.

The same Ust-Almmen necropolis (items from which went to the exhibition and then got stuck for almost 10 years in the Netherlands) continues to be explored with the funding and participation of Russians.

In 2017, in particular, a woman's burial with gold was found there, and the Russian media began to boast that "we don't need to return that gold; we were able to dig up our Scythian gold".

Details: Lifantii says that similar excavations in occupied Crimea are being carried out at the expense of federal funding from the Russian Federation.

The further fate of archaeological artefacts found in this way, as the researcher notes, cannot be traced because "such things can be sent outside Crimea under the pretext of restoration".

She adds that according to international law, archaeological artefacts discovered this way are illegal.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
The Russian occupiers are on the defensive throughout the territory of the southern part of the front unlike the eastern one, but are intensely launching attacks on the Defence Forces of Ukraine trying to take back the positions they lost.

Source: Hanna Maliar , Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine, in a 24/7 newscast on 14 September

Details: Maliar reported that the Russians are conducting an offensive in the east on the Kupiansk, Lyman, Avdiivka and Marinka fronts.

The Defence Forces of Ukraine are in turn conducting offensive actions on the Bakhmut front and achieving success along the southern flank near the settlements of Andriivka, Kurdiumivka and Klishchiivka.

Ukraines Armed Forces are also "gradually advancing" on the Melitopol front, as confirmed by Maliar.

Quote: "The south is the main front of our offensive, and the Russians are holding the defence all throughout the southern region. It means we are advancing there, and they are holding the defence.

Even when it seems that the news are similar every day, in reality the situation is very dynamic. If the Russians are holding the defence, this does not mean they are just defending.

This means that very active fighting is ongoing there. The Russians use hundreds of thousands of projectiles and launch thousands of attacks each day. There are 4,000-5,000 attacks a week

The Russians do not want to give away the liberated settlements. Speaking about Robotyne  we still have to protect the positions we have achieved and even gained foothold on from Russian assaults because they [the Russians  ed.] want to take back the positions theyve lost."

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Ukrainian soldiers are continuing to crush the Russian forces and destroy their equipment  over the past day alone they destroyed a Russian ship, a submarine, 47 UAVs, 42 artillery systems, 18 armoured vehicles and 15 tanks.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Details: The total combat losses of Russian troops between 24 February 2022 and 14 September 2023 are estimated to be as follows [figures in parentheses represent the latest losses  ed.]:

approximately 270,970 (+620) military personnel

4,599 (+15) tanks

8,810 (+18) armoured combat vehicles

5,944 (+42) artillery systems

769 (+3) multiple-launch rocket systems

517 (+0) air defence systems

315 (+0) fixed-wing aircraft

316 (+0) helicopters

4,697 (+47) tactical UAVs

1,455 (+0) cruise missiles

20 (+1) ships/boats

1 (+1) submarines

8,458 (+14) vehicles and tankers

889 (+5) other vehicles and equipment

The data is being updated.

Background:

On the night of 12-13 September, the occupation authorities of Sevastopol claimed that a missile attack caused a fire to break out at a shipyard near Kilen-balka, and the Russian Ministry of Defence reported an attack by missiles and uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) that damaged two ships.

Ukraine's attack on the ships of the Russian Black Sea Fleet in occupied Sevastopol can be considered a great success: a large landing ship was hit for the third time, and a submarine was hit for the first time.

OSINT researchers reported that a Ropucha-class large landing ship and a Kilo-class submarine were damaged at a shipyard in occupied Sevastopol. The Russian Telegram channel Baza wrote that, as a result of the attack, the large landing ship Minsk and the Rostov-on-Don diesel-electric submarine were damaged.

Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk, Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, thanked Ukrainian pilots for explosions in temporarily occupied Sevastopol.

Representatives of the Atesh underground resistance movement said they launched a missile strike on the Russian fleet in Sevastopol.

Explosions rang out in occupied Yevpatoria in Crimea on the morning of 14 September, with the Russian Defence Ministry reporting a drone attack on Crimea and an attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet patrol ship Sergei Kotov by uncrewed surface vessels (USV).

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
The Russians have long feared losing warships to Ukrainian drone attacks.

They even painted some ships with camouflage stripes, hoping it would confuse drone sensors.

But the latest Ukrainian missile attack on a shipyard in Sevastopol damaged two ships anyway.

The success of Ukraine's latest missile strike on a major shipyard in Russian-controlled Crimea appears to show just how futile Russia's defenses were.

In June, open-source naval researcher H I Sutton spotted dark bands of paint on Russian warships in Sevastopol, which were thought at the time to be a form of camouflage used to confuse Ukrainian maritime drones.

At least four vessels had these bands of paint on them, including the Russian frigate Admiral Essen, seen via satellite imagery at the Crimean port of Sevastopol on June 22.

"It would appear that in this case, the camouflage is primarily geared towards ensuring that at very long distances, a low-quality electro-optical sensor might not distinguish the vessel from background clutter," Sidharth Kaushal, a research fellow in sea power at London's Royal United Services Institute, told Insider in July.

If the Russians thought the paint would provide enough defense, Ukraine proved them wrong this week.

The Russian Black Sea Fleet's base in Sevastopol, a city in Russia-controlled Crimea, was attacked by missiles in the early hours of Wednesday.

Two ships were damaged while undergoing repairs, per a statement from Russia's Ministry of Defense. The statement did not specify which vessels got hit in the attack.

According to footage and photos from the blast, the two targets struck by missiles appeared to be a submarine and a landing craft. It is unclear if the two vessels hit in Wednesday's attack had the camouflage stripes painted on them.

Ukraine's plans to strike Sevastopol and the Russian Navy's fleet have been a long time coming. They date back to September 2022  when Elon Musk refused to turn on access to Starlink satellites, which could have been used to guide Ukraine's drones to their targets in Crimea, per an excerpt from the Walter Isaacson -penned book about Musk.

Musk, for his part, has defended his decision to not turn on Starlink access in Crimea.

In a podcast appearance uploaded to X on Tuesday, Musk said enabling such an attack, in his opinion, could have resulted in a "mini Pearl Harbor" and "a mass escalation of hostilities."

A year later, the same kind of attack happened anyway.

Representatives for Russia's Ministry of Defense did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider sent outside regular business hours.

Read the original article on Business Insider
RUTHERFORD COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN)  A nurse at a facility in Murfreesboro was arrested last month in connection with a drug theft case.

Agents with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation began looking into allegations involving 49-year-old Laural Beth Galyon, of La Vergne, after receiving information from the Tennessee Department of Human Services last July.

Biden administration invests $100 million to train more nurses and grow the workforce

At the time, Galyon was a licensed practical nurse (LPN) at an unamed facility in Murfreesboro. During the investigation, agents said they learned Galyon had stolen hydrocodone that had been prescribed for a patient in her care.

Hydrocodone is an opioid typically used to treat pain and as a cough suppressant. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), hydrocodone is often abused for its opioid effects. The DEA has been cutting the supply of hydrocodone in recent years.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee

On Feb. 8, the Rutherford County Grand Jury returned an indictment charging Galyon with one count of theft. Authorities arrested her on Aug. 24 and booked her into the Rutherford County Jail on a $5,000 bond.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors unanimously agreed that county government was failing to keep renters safe from harassment before four out of five of the elected officials declined to vote Tuesday on a proposed tenant anti-harassment ordinance, ensuring the measure would die.

The board decided to put on a future workshop about tenant protection resources in the county.

Supervisor Patrick Kennedy, who proposed the ordinance, said he was inspired to do so after visiting a large apartment complex and seeing the mostly immigrant tenants paying upwards of $2,000 a month to live in squalor. While he was at the complex meeting with his constituents, he said, I witnessed, myself, harassment.

Kennedy  who represents south Sacramento, the Pocket, Vineyard and other parts of unincorporated Sacramento County north of Calvine Road and east of Excelsior Road  submitted a new county ordinance to give renters in unincorporated parts of the county more tools to defend themselves against landlord harassment.

After two hours of public comment and board deliberations, Kennedy moved to vote on the item. His four colleagues declined to second the motion.

The majority of public commenters spoke in favor of the change to local law, which some described as a matter of life and death. Many renters said they had dealt with landlord harassment themselves, and some told the board detailed stories of abuse.

A small handful of individual landlords and a representative from the California Apartment Association  which represents owners  and the Sacramento Realtors Association  which represents Realtors and property owners, and says it fights onerous legislation  spoke against the ordinance, saying it would unfairly harm innocent landlords.

Some also said the local change would duplicate state law and therefore be redundant.

The ordinance would have, among other things, allowed tenants to win $2,000 to $5,000 per violation from their harassing landlord in a civil case. Under state tenant harassment law, landlord liability is capped at $2,000 per violation.

The question is, why are industry groups coming out here to oppose this? asked Ethan Silverstein, an attorney for ACCE Institute who litigates tenants rights cases.

I dont think these big players are afraid of the $2,000 fine, he told the board. In Sacramento County, the attorney explained, Theres essentially two eviction defense lawyers. There are basically no private lawyers who will take cases out here. So the culture is if youre a landlord or a property manager, you can do whatever you want and get away with it. What they are afraid of is showing the tenants in these rooms that they can change the situation. Theyre not afraid of the fine. Theyre afraid of the tenants organizing.

Yvette Veiga, a certified nursing assistant who rents out an accessory dwelling unit



on her property to two tenants, said that she, too, was a mom-and-pop landlord  but she supported the ordinance. She has disabled clients who can barely get in and out of their apartments because their own landlords wont fix accessibility issues.

Addressing the board, Veiga said, The only people I feel that would oppose this are the people who want to slack and cheat and connive.

Commenter criticizes landlords influence

Keyan Bliss, a renter who serves on the Sacramento Community Police Review Commission, pointed out that members of the board had accepted donations from industry groups opposing the ordinance.

Campaign finance disclosures confirm that every member of the Board of Supervisors has received financial support from the California Apartment Association.

Between December 2019 and October 2020, the California Apartment Association made two $2,500 contributions to elect board chair Rich Desmond. Supervisor Phil Serna, who represents much of the city of Sacramento, received a $1,000 donation from a local chapter of the association in 2018. The California Apartment Association gave outgoing Supervisor Sue Frost $1,000 in 2016, $150 in 2019 and $2,350 in 2020. In 2022, Supervisor Patrick Hume received $5,000 from the California Apartment Association.

Kennedy, who brought forth the ordinance, has received $3,500 from the landlord group that lobbied against his proposal.

People are dying

In explaining why he couldnt support the ordinance, Serna said he thought the language was too vague. But he said he seconded Desmonds request for a workshop to go over the existing resources in the county before the end of the year.

Erica Jaramillo, an organizer with the Sacramento Tenants Union, told the board that existing resources were inadequate, and the county had divested from tenant protection efforts. One such spending choice came in 2014, when the Board of Supervisors became the final government body to defund the Regional Human Rights/Fair Housing Commission, which had provided attorneys to tenants in landlord disputes.

Serna said he would potentially be willing to make midyear adjustments to the budget if necessary because the need for change seemed pressing.

Shalonda Barksdale agreed that the matter was urgent. She told The Sacramento Bee that her apartment complex is essentially a slum, and she and her neighbors cant get their landlord to make critical repairs. Other tenants, she said, are too afraid to complain to outside authorities because they worry the property manager will simply evict them in retaliation.

Barksdale was hospitalized for heat stroke last summer after her air conditioner broke and the property manager would not fix it. She said that tenants desperately need more protections in Sacramento County.

Its just not right, she said. People are dying, man.
It might just be time to upgrade your monitor or to buy an external display for your laptop. As luck would have it, theres a sale on Samsung monitors on Amazon right now , with savings of up to 40 percent. One deal thats definitely worth taking notice of is a discount on the Samsung Smart Monitor M8. That has dropped by $120 to $580 , which is the lowest price weve seen to date.

Since it's a smart monitor, it can do more than just display your computer's video output. You can effectively use the 32-inch M8 as a smart TV to stream shows and movies from the likes of Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video and Disney+. You can stream games via the Samsung Gaming Hub, which includes Xbox Cloud Gaming. So, all you'll need is a controller and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription to hop into the likes of Starfield.

There's Microsoft 365 support, so you can get some work done and even browse the web without hooking up a PC or laptop at all. A detachable SimFit Cam could come in handy for video calls  it can help keep the focus on your face as you move around.

There's the option to connect to a PC remotely using the Workmode feature. In addition, you can connect a Samsung phone or tablet and use them in DeX mode. You will have the ability to control your smart home devices with the M8 via SmartThings and built-in Alexa support too.

Elsewhere, the curved Odyssey G8 gaming monitor is $996.51 (down 34 percent from $1,500) and if you really feel like splashing out, the enormous 55-inch Odyssey Ark has dropped by 33 percent from $3,000 to $2,000 . For the full 40 percent discount and a more budget-friendly monitor, though, it's worth considering the Odyssey G32A, which is down from $250 to $150 .

This is a Full HD 24-inch gaming monitor with a refresh rate of up to 165Hz and a response rate of just 1ms. There's support for FreeSync Premium, which should reduce screen tearing and minimize input latency further for those with AMD-powered systems. If you need a gaming monitor with solid performance but don't want to break the bank, this seems like a viable option for you.

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.
By Nathan Frandino

BERKELEY, California (Reuters) - Meghan Holst studies the broadnose sevengill shark, so she was naturally concerned when record-setting rain this year altered the shark's nursery grounds in San Francisco Bay.

But the species appears to have withstood the challenge, based on initial observations from a recent outing on the water by Holst, a 31-year-old doctoral student in conservation ecology at the University of California, Davis.

Next, perhaps, will come California Fish and Game Commission protections for the sharks in San Francisco Bay, which she considers a nursing and pupping ground for a species believed to be in decline. Research like hers can help support such a designation.

San Francisco Bay is one of the world's only known year-round nurseries for the species, Holst said, making the habitat critical to monitor. The sevengill, known for its thick body, broad head and blunt snout, measures up to 10 feet (3 meters) long and eats various fish including other shark species and rays, dolphins, seals and other prey. As its name indicates, it has seven gills, while most shark species possess five.

Heavy rain and snow in California last winter replenished reservoirs after a severe drought, but the resulting freshwater runoff into the bay may have affected the ecosystem, including salinity levels.

"That's something I'm really interested in and looking at is where are they going when maybe the water is too fresh in San Francisco Bay for them and they might get pushed out," Holst said from aboard her research vessel in the bay. "So the fact that they're here today is awesome."

Holst and her crew count the shark's seven gills each time they catch a member of the species with rod and reel, using salmon as bait. The team collects all manner of data, taking blood and muscle biopsy samples, before releasing the sharks back into the bay. Many of these sharks were juveniles, much smaller than the full-grown adults.

Up early, they motor through tides on frequently foggy mornings, navigating secret fishing spots to drop anchor.

"This is the only population that we know of that is putting all of their pups in one location in this nursery ground. ... So if something happens to San Francisco Bay, then we might lose an entire cohort of these sevengill juveniles," Holst said.

The species also can be found elsewhere around the globe, including in waters off New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina. Population numbers have proved difficult to determine for scientists, though the International Union for Conservation of Nature describes the species as vulnerable and says the population trend is decreasing.

"Sharks are a really great sign for a healthy, sustainable ecosystem, and they are what keeps our ecosystem in check," Holst said.

(Reporting by Nathan Frandino; Editing by Will Dunham)
FILE - U.S. Rep. George Santos, R-N.Y., holds a miniature American flag that was presented to him as he departs federal court, Friday, June 30, 2023, in Central Islip, N.Y. Sam Miele, a former political fundraiser for Santos, was arrested Wednesday, Aug. 16, on federal charges of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft as part of an alleged scheme to trick donors into giving money to Santos under a false name. (AP Photo/John Minchillo, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

NEW YORK (AP)  U.S. Rep. George Santos on Wednesday missed another deadline to submit a key financial disclosure report, a months-long delay that the embattled New York Republican blamed on his federal taxes and the desire to avoid a rushed job.

The disclosures, which are filed with the House Committee on Ethics, provide a public snapshot of a representative's personal finances. They are meant to serve as a bulwark against potential conflicts of interest.

In an emailed statement to The Associated Press, Santos acknowledged being tardy, but said he would rather be late, accurate, and pay the fine than be on time, inaccurate, and suffer the consequences of a rushed job.

Santos, who gained infamy for fabricating big parts of his life story while running for office, is facing a 13-count federal indictment centered on charges of money laundering and lying to Congress in an earlier financial disclosure.

It still isn't completely clear how he made his living prior to being elected. He described himself as a Wall Street dealmaker who also made money in real estate, but he didn't work for the companies he claimed had employed him and he had been evicted from some apartments for not paying rent. More recently, he said he made money helping wealthy people buy luxury items, like yachts, but he hasn't provided details.

He received a 90-day extension for the House financial disclosure in May, then missed the due date in August. At the time, he said he planned to file the disclosure within a 30-day grace period permitted by the federal government.

That period elapsed Wednesday, with Santos saying he had no plans to file until submitting his federal tax returns from last year.

Despite my legal teams and my best efforts to meet the deadlines, additional auditing and tax filing for 2022 remained, he said. I still have until November 2023 to submit my 2022 taxes with the IRS in order to avoid legal troubles.

Because House filing deadlines conflict with IRS regulations, this misalignment exists, he added.

Stephen Spaulding, the vice president of policy at Common Cause, a watchdog group, described Santos reasoning as nonsensical, noting there was no reason that his federal tax obligations should prevent him from filing the necessary disclosure.

He is thumbing his nose at transparency requirements, his constituents and the public, Spaulding said. All the more reason to strengthen these penalties.

Under federal law, members of Congress are punished with only a $200 late fee for missing the filing deadline. Those who dont file at all, or knowingly falsify their statements, may face a civil penalty up to $71,316.

While it is not uncommon for representatives to file their disclosures late, few of them blow past the extended deadlines, according to Spaulding.

Everyone else seems to know how to comply with this, he said. Its not onerous.

Santos is due back in court in his criminal case in October.
CANBERRA, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- High overseas migration has driven Australia's rate of population growth to its highest level in over a decade.

According to data published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) on Thursday, Australia's population grew by 2.17 percent in the 12 months to the end of March to 26.47 million people.

It marks the highest annual growth rate since the population grew by 2.19 percent in the 12 months to the end of December 2008.

Beidar Cho, head of demography at the ABS, said in a media release on Thursday that an influx of migrants in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic was the biggest factor in the population surge.

"13 months after international borders were re-opened, net overseas migration accounted for 81 percent of growth and added 454,400 people to the population in the year to March 2023," he said.

By comparison, in the 12 months to the end of March 2022 the population grew by 1.0 percent, with Australia's international borders closed for the majority of that span.

ABS data showed that 681,000 migrants arrived in Australia in the year to March 2023, an increase of 103 percent from the previous year, and 226,600 people left the country to live overseas.

Natural increase in the population was 108,800 people, with 301,200 births and 192,300 deaths registered in the year to March.

Deaths were 7.9 percent higher than the 12 months to March 2022 and births 3.4 percent lower.

Population growth over the 12 months was highest in the state of Western Australia at 2.8 percent and lowest in the island state of Tasmania at 0.4 percent. 
WHO logo seen near its headquarters in Geneva

(Reuters) -A total of 23 deaths linked to Legionnaires' disease have been reported from Poland as of Sept. 11, the World Health Organization said on Thursday.

A total of 166 cases of the disease have been reported, WHO said, adding that no new cases have been reported since Sept. 7.

Legionnaires' disease, caused by the legionella bacteria, can result in a severe form of pneumonia. The most common form of transmission is inhalation of contaminated aerosols produced in conjunction with water sprays, jets or mists of contaminated water sources, according to WHO.

In August, authorities said Poland's domestic security agency was investigating whether an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease might be the result of intentional tampering with the water system.

The infection source has not yet been identified and investigations are still ongoing to find the source of the outbreak, WHO said.

(Reporting by Jahnavi Nidumolu in Bengaluru; Editing by David Gregorio)
Ukraines SBU Security Service has captured an informant in Kherson working for Russian State Duma member Igor Kastyukevich, newly appointed as a supervisor for the temporarily occupied region, according to a press release on Sep. 14.

The suspect, identified as a resident of Kherson, had subscribed to Kastyukevichs social media pages during the occupation of the city.

Read also:

After Kherson was liberated, she offered her assistance in adjusting strikes on units of the Ukrainian Armed Forces stationed in the city.

She surreptitiously roamed the streets, documenting the locations of Ukrainian military units, and subsequently sent this information to Kastyukevich. These details were then transmitted to the Russian Armed Forces.

Read also: Over 200 individuals charged with sharing videos, photos of military positions  SBU

During the search of the womans residence, a mobile phone containing evidence of subversive activities was seized.

The suspect has been charged with unauthorized dissemination of information about the direction, and movement of weapons, armaments, and military supplies to Ukraine.

She is currently in custody and could face up to 12 years in prison if found guilty.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Thanks to South Carolina's open primaries, Democrat and Republican voters have the opportunity to play a spoiler role in the selection of each other's presidential nominee.

As it now stands, incumbent Democrat President Joe Biden is the overwhelming favorite to secure his party's nomination. Former President Donald Trump is the Republican Party's front-runner.

In South Carolina, voters who align with Democrats typically vote in that party's primary. The same holds true for Republicans.

But nothing prevents Democrats from voting in the Republican primary and vice versa. If enough people cross-vote, it could affect that primary's outcome. However, if a person votes in the Democratic primary, they cannot vote again in the Republican primary.

"I do think many Democrats will want to support Trump in the GOP primary," said David Woodard, a retired Clemson University political science professor. "As I see it, Biden can only beat one Republican, and that is Trump. So the people who hate the MAGA and Trump, the riots in Washington and his arrogance on television will go vote for him in the GOP primary."

Still, political observers say they don't think there will be enough cross-voters to change the outcome of the primary.

"Four years ago, conservative activists sought to influence the Democratic primary by crossing over to vote for Bernie Sanders over Joe Biden because they thought it would ultimately benefit Donald Trump," said Columbia-based Republican strategist Rob Godfrey. "The effort was a big failure as it was a bad idea, and Joe Biden won in the (primary) that propelled him to the nomination.

"I don't expect any similar efforts this year to be successful  not to mention the fact that I think Republican voters will be preoccupied with voting in their own competitive presidential primary that includes two candidates from their own home state," added Godfrey, who was deputy chief of staff for former Gov. Nikki Haley.

Haley and Sen. Tim Scott, both South Carolinians, are hoping for a strong showing among a crowded field in the state's Feb. 24 Republican primary.

In a red state where Republicans hold all major statewide offices and nearly all its congressional seats, Woodard said the GOP doesn't have much to worry about with cross-over voting.

"If you're a Democrat in South Carolina, you know you have no influence here," Woodard said. "In effect, the Democratic Party is dead in this state and can't even furnish candidates for most elections."

Retired Clemson University political science professor David Woodard said he believes many Democrats will vote in the Republican primary, but not enough to make a difference.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expecting votes across party lines

Meanwhile, Democrat Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is expecting to receive his fair share of cross-over votes from Republicans and Independents in the Democratic primary, slated by the Democratic National Committee to be the first in the nation on Feb. 3.

"This campaign is really a populist movement that unites left and right, Black and white, rural and urban and young and old against the elite. So I think you will see a big cross-over," said Trevor FitzGibbon, who works with the pro-Kennedy Super PAC called American Values 2024.

"People feel like corporations stole Washington, D.C. from the people and that Bobby is going to take it back. Bobby's surging in South Carolina and also in New Hampshire," FitzGibbon added, referring to a recent American Values 2024 poll that showed Biden leading Kennedy among likely voters in New Hampshire by a margin of 46% to 31%.

Democratic presidential hopeful Robert F. Kennedy Jr. addresses a crowd during a recent Spartanburg rally. His camp believes he will receive many cross-over votes in his party's primary.

Kathryn Harvey, chairwoman of the Spartanburg County Democratic Party, said she expects cross-over voters in both primaries, but not enough to change the outcome.

"You'll likely see more Democrats voting in a Republican primary," she said. "If you're looking at the current pool (of GOP hopefuls), more people than not will come out to make sure Trump doesn't get elected. It's more of a not-Trump scenario."

Curt Smith, chairman of the Spartanburg County Republican party, said he supports a closed primary system, where voters register by party and can only vote in that party's primary.

"I do believe there is a hidden factor in South Carolina, that a lot of minorities do not support Mr. Biden  they are upset," Smith said. "Therefore there will probably be more Democratic turnout in the Republican primary to get what they want."

Abby Zilch, spokeswoman for the South Carolina Republican Party, said Republicans thinking of voting in the Democratic primary against Biden should be reminded that if they do so, they can't vote in the Republican primary.

"We are encouraging Republicans to vote in the Republican primary and our party's platform," Zilch said. "You only have one vote in the primary."

South Carolina is predominately red: Spartanburg County and SC are predominately Republican red. That wasn't always the case.

Efforts to close SC party primaries have failed

There have been many failed efforts in the state Legislature to make South Carolina a closed primary state.

The most recent one is from Republican state Sen. Rex Rice of Easley. His bill, S 403, and S 767 which he co-authored with GOP state Sen. Tom Corbin of Travelers Rest, would require voters to register with a party and not be allowed to vote in another party's primary.

The bills were filed earlier this year and failed to advance from the Senate Judiciary Committee.

A similar bill, H 3161, was filed in the state House in January, locally sponsored by Republican Reps. Bill Chumley of Reidville and Roger Nutt of Moore. It also failed to advance out of committee.

Rice, who represents a heavily Republican Pickens County, said he nearly lost in 2016 when Democrats voted in the Republican primary.

In that Republican Senate District 2 primary, incumbent Sen. Larry Martin failed to get over 50% to win outright, which forced a runoff. Martin got 6,284 votes, or 45.09%, and Rice got 4,641 votes, or 33.3%.

In the runoff, Rice got 6,022 votes, or 54.21%, to Martin's 5,087 votes, or 45.79%. Since no Democrat ran for that seat, Rice was declared the winner.

Republican state Sen. Rex Rice of Easley has sponsored a bill that would close party primaries, allowing for only those voters to vote in their party's primary.

"I'm sure Democrats came out and voted against me," Rice said.

He said he understands it works both ways. In 2020, when Trump was the presumed GOP nominee without a Republican primary, Republicans voted in the Democratic primary to try and influence that outcome. That year, Biden won handily with 48.7% of the statewide primary vote and Bernie Sanders finished second with 19.77%.

Nutt said he believes the reason why bills never make it out of committee is because both parties fear they might lose representatives with closed primaries.

Republican state Rep. Roger Nutt of Moore has co-sponsored a bill that would close party primaries, allowing for only those voters to vote in their party's primary.

"In this county, we have a very strong majority of Republican voters," Nutt said. "A majority of the county races will typically be Republican candidates only, with no Democrat or third-party candidate in the race. So if you are a Democrat or another party member, and wanted to have a say in the election, your only choice is to vote in the Republican primaries.

"On the flip side, there are counties in this state where Republicans are not as strong as they are in the Upstate. In this case, the weaker Republican would need the votes of Democrats as well as Republicans to receive a majority of the votes," Nutt added. "This is why there is a split in the legislators in Columbia."

Meanwhile, Godfrey said both parties are content to deal with the current system, and that he doesn't see South Carolina becoming a closed primary state any time soon.

"Our state plays an incredibly unique and invaluable role in shaping history through the presidential primary process, as it works now," Godfrey said. "When the Republican primary makes its way to South Carolina this cycle, another record-breaking number of conservative voters will participate, and likely catapult the winner of the primary to the nomination."

Bob Montgomery covers Spartanburg County politics and growth & development. Reach him via email at bmontgomery@shj.com.

This article originally appeared on Herald-Journal: Republicans, Democrats could be spoilers in SC presidential primaries
South Carolinas most notorious criminal, Alex Murdaugh, will have his first financial crimes trial on Nov. 27 in Beaufort County.

Before a Beaufort County courtroom full to the brim with media, lawyers, state lawmakers and members of the public, Murdaugh entered in a bright orange jumpsuit, hands shackled. Attendees looked on silently, all aware of the long, twisting saga Murdaugh has authored through his alleged financial crimes and the murders of his wife and son, which he was convicted for in March.

The financial trial will involve the $4.3 million allegedly stolen from the heirs of the late Murdaugh family housekeeper Gloria Satterfield, who died after a 2018 slip-and-fall at the Murdaughs family estate in rural Colleton County.

The Satterfield case is the states top priority of all of Murdaughs financial crimes, Attorney General lead prosecutor Creighton Waters told state Judge Clifton Newman .

Newman set the date over the objection of Murdaugh defense lawyer Dick Harpootlian , who argued for a 2024 court date.

Harpootlian also told the judge that with all the publicity following Murdaughs March murder convictions for killing his wife, Maggie, and son Paul, it will be hard to find an impartial jury. Where are we going to find one  Mars? Harpootlian asked Newman.

In all, Murdaugh faces more than 100 counts of various financial crimes involving nearly $8 million in stolen funds, Waters told the judge.

The date was set during a 31-minute hearing at the Beaufort County courthouse.

It was one of three hearings set for Thursday involving Murdaugh or two of his alleged co-conspirators in the thefts.

Beginning in the fall of 2021 and continuing into 2022, Murdaugh was indicted the various county grand juries for a host of financial crimes including money laundering, fraud, embezzlement and forgery. Victims in his thefts included his law firm, his former clients, friends and even his own brother Randy, also a lawyer in Murdaughs former firm. The grand juries included those in Beaufort, Hampton, Colleton and Alandale counties.

The three hearings for Murdaugh and his two co-conspirators  Cory Fleming and Russell Laffitte  in various financial crimes were supposed to have started at 9:30 in the Beaufort County courthouse main courtroom. But state Judge Clifton Newman had not yet taken the bench.

By 9:30, nearly every seat was taken, and a low buzz of conversation filled the courtroom, whose walls are lined with portraits of judges and other officials. Unlike Murdaughs murder trial in Colleton County, where a portrait of his grandfather was removed from the wall, no Murdaugh portraits hang in Beaufort Countys courtroom.

Lawyers representing Murdaugh and his two co-conspirators were in the room, as well as a team from the state Attorney Generals office led by prosecutors Waters, Don Zelenka and Johnny James.

Sitting directly behind the prosecution team were members of the Satterfield family.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is warning the public about a phone scam that uses artificial intelligence to target senior citizens by mimicking the voices of their grandchildren or children.

Victims are fooled into believing their loved one was arrested, CMPD posted on social media.

Scam Alert! Please be aware of a phone scam using artificial intelligence thats on the rise. Scammers use AI to target the elderly by mimicking the voice of a grandchild or child. Victims are fooled into believing their loved one was arrested. pic.twitter.com/hefpNGG1Ve  CMPD News (@CMPD) September 13, 2023

The scammers ask their victims for bail money and to send a courier to pick up money.

VIDEO: Sheriffs office warns residents of scam jury duty calls in Union County
The Moreno Valley Unified School District has agreed to pay $27 million to the family of an eighth-grader who died in a bullying incident four years ago at Landmark Middle School.

The lawyers representing the family of Diego Stolz announced the settlement Wednesday.

Diego Stolz was 13 years old when he died. A graphic video of the attack that took his life showed the moment two teenage boys attacked him on school grounds.

In the video, Stolz can be seen with his arms at his side as another student gets directly in his face before smacking him. Stolz, stunned, takes a step back before a second student off-screen sucker punches him in the back of the head. Stolz goes down immediately and then hits his head against a pillar.

Stolz suffered a traumatic brain injury and died nine days later.

DIEGO STOLZ ATTACK

His family sued the School District, alleging he was a regular victim of bullying and the school was aware of the ongoing harassment he was facing.

Dave Ring, one of the familys attorneys, called Diegos death preventable had the school taken the concerns more seriously and prioritized an anti-bullying policy.

In the days leading up to the attack that would end his life, the harassment of Diego intensified, leading to a meeting with the 13-year-old and a family member.

The familys attorneys say school administrators promised family members and Diego that the boys who were harassing and bullying him would be suspended and that the school was taking care of the problem.

But when Diego arrived at school days later, he found that the boys were not suspended and the bullying began again, reaching new highs as they physically assaulted him for what would be the final time.

The settlement comes after a 2020 California law was enacted that asserted that legal guardians were allowed to bring forth a civil suit in the wrongful or negligent death of a minor. Diegos birth parents had died when he was young and he was being raised by his aunt and uncle.

The bill was inspired by Diegos death and allowed for his legal guardians to pursue civil claims against the School District.

The settlement comes nearly four years to the day after the attack that ultimately took his life. The $27 million payout is the largest bullying settlement in the nations history, the familys attorneys say.

The family will forever be heartbroken by the death of Diego but they hope this case brings about change in school districts across the country, Ring said when announcing that terms of a settlement had been reached.

A framed photo showed Diego Stolz, 13, who was fatally injured in an assault on Sept. 16 at Landmark Middle School in Moreno Valley. (Credit: Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Neil Gehlawat, another attorney representing Diegos family, said he hopes this settlement will be the first step toward real change toward widespread anti-bullying measures.

The two teens who were responsible for Diegos death spent 47 days in juvenile custody after entering what amount to guilty pleas for involuntary manslaughter and assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury.

A judge declined to sentence them to additional time, but the boys, who were 14 at the time, were ordered to attend anger management, according to the Associated Press.

In the aftermath of Diegos death, Landmark Middle Schools principal at the time and two assistant principals were removed from their positions.

Diegos family announced his organs would be donated.

The Moreno Valley Unified School District released a statement, saying in part:

On behalf of the Moreno Valley Unified School District Board of Education, we want you to know that we truly care about each and every student and staff member in our district. The news of Diegos death was not something we took lightly. The safety and well-being of our students is and will remain our top priority.

District officials said there will be changes to foster anti-bullying efforts including easier ways to report bullying and resources on how to identify different types of bullying.

Students and staff will have access to crisis counselors, mental health therapists, administrators and other social and emotional support resources.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Columbus City Schools bus drivers head out to pick up students on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023, on the for the first day of school for most students.

The state released its annual report cards for Ohio's public schools Thursday, and Columbus City Schools slipped in some ratings.

The Ohio Department of Education's latest assessment shows that the state's largest school system showed no improvement over last years in some categories and a decline in others.

ODE collects information from the state's more than 600 public school districts and funnels the data into six categories: achievement, progress, early literacy, gap closing, graduation and readiness (college, career, workforce, military). Beginning last year, the state shifted away from an A-F letter grade system to new categories and calculations based on a star system.

Schools can earn up to five stars in each category in increments of half-star ratings.

More: Ohio state school report cards are out. See how your district did

On this latest report card for 2022-23 school year, Columbus City Schools received two stars in achievement and three stars each in progress and gap closing under the new system. The district received only one-star ratings in the graduation and early literacy categories. The readiness measurement isn't being tracked yet.

How did Columbus City Schools do on this year's report card?

On the five-star system, the district received:

Achievement: two stars

Progress: two stars

Gap closing: two stars

Graduation: two stars

Early literacy: one star

In the categories of gap closing and progress, the district lost a star in each from the 2021-2022 report card. In the three other categories, it remained the same.

Overall, the district was rated a two out of five stars by the state, which means the district "needs support to meet state standards."

In a statement, Superintendent Angela Chapman acknowledged Thursday that more work needed to be done in the district.

"We're dedicated to closing gaps, addressing disparities, and accelerating learning," Chapman said. "Our focus is on establishing inclusive structures, with the ongoing support of educators, parents, and community partners."

A CCS statement also pointed to report card data showing improvements in reading and math in some categories, and a 20% reduction in chronic absenteeism over two years.

Scott DiMauro, president of the Ohio Education Association, said school district ratings are often tied to poverty levels.

"There is still a direct-line correlation between the ratings school districts receive and their level of poverty; those kind of characterize the population of students," DiMauro said.

However, DiMauro said Columbus City Schools, which has a higher level of poverty than the surrounding suburban districts, is not far in several categories from a three-star rating, which indicates it is meeting state standards.

Nana Watson, Columbus NAACP president, said in a statement that she was "distressed" by the results and blamed the "former superintendent (Talisa Dixon), administration, and the Columbus City Schools Board of Education."

She added that she hopes Chapman can "take this big ship and put it on the right course."

What else is in the new CCS report card?

Financial, demographic and attendance data is tracked in the ODE report cards.

The district declined in enrollment by several hundred students, dropping slightly below 45,000 students  though it remains the state's largest district.

Overall, CCS student attendance increased by 2% to 82%, and the four-year graduation rate is 79.6%.

However, according to the report card data, 57% of students in CCS are chronically absent, meaning they miss 10% or more of a school year for any reason  higher than any urban district in the state.

Aaron Churchill, research director for the Fordham Institute, an education policy-focused think tank, said it is clear from statewide data that more work is needed to address chronic absenteeism in many districts.

"If the pandemic has taught us anything, its just how crucial it is for students to be in the classroom, Churchill said. Unfortunately, too many students are still missing valuable instructional time that can help them catch up."

Under a new section in the state report cards for each district, called "student opportunity profiles," parents can see how many teachers or other faculty a district has per student, broken down by grade and participation in programs like all-day kindergarten.

DiMauro said the new feature "goes a very long way toward providing a fuller, more useful picture of what is actually happening in Ohios public schools.

@Colebehr_report

Cbehrens@dispatch.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: How did Columbus City Schools do on state report cards? It got worse.
Human hearts contain tiny fragments of plastic, a July research paper revealed.

The paper, which reported on plastic in the organ that pumps blood through our bodies, appeared in Environmental Science & Technology, a journal of the American Chemical Society.

Whats happening?

In this limited pilot study, researchers used infrared imaging and scanning electron microscopes to study heart-tissue samples and blood from 15 patients undergoing cardiac surgeries.

The researchers found nine types of microplastic and tens to thousands of plastic pieces in tissues from most parts of the heart, according to a news release. However, amounts and materials varied among participants.

Plastic particles qualify as microplastics if they are less than 0.2 inches long  about the length of a grain of rice.

Scientists have previously found microplastics in our air, food, water, lungs, blood, and other body tissues. Yet there has been limited evidence of plastic in the heart or other organs that are closed off from our external environment.

In addition to finding microplastics in the heart, the new study indicated that, to a degree, surgery itself exposes patients to these particles. The researchers called for more work in this area and into the effects of microplastics on human health.

Why are microplastics in the heart concerning?

So far, studies have not found evidence that microplastics in the body cause harm, as WebMD reported. However, this is an evolving area of research, and many experts have concerns, in part because some plastics contain known toxic chemicals.

The study of whether and how microplastics  pose threats to human health is still in its infancy, Harvard Medicine reported this spring.

There are so many unknowns, Bernardo Lemos, an adjunct professor of public health at Harvard, told the outlet, but we are seeing more data that suggest microplastics affect human biology.

A 2022 World Health Organization report called for more research  but also for the reduction of plastics in the environment.

Although the limited data provide little evidence that [microplastics and nanoplastics] have adverse effects in humans, there is increasing public awareness and an overwhelming consensus among all stakeholders that plastics do not belong in the environment, and measures should be taken to mitigate exposure, said the report.

Aside from human health concerns, microplastics have other impacts, including the levels of heat-trapping chemicals that are overheating the planet, Grist reported.

Whats being done about microplastics?

Scientists are working on innovative methods that may help clean up and break down microplastics. Meanwhile, to reduce our personal exposure, we can take precautionary steps like avoiding heating or consuming foods in plastic when possible. Reducing plastic use and waste leads to simultaneous wins by reducing planet-heating pollution, too.

Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the coolest innovations improving our lives and saving our planet.
Scientists measured significant levels of lithium trapped in clay deposits in an extinct US volcano.

The US mostly relies on lithium imports, which it uses for rechargeable batteries in electric cars.

Lithium independence would be a game-changer for clean energy but Native Americans are already suffering for it.

The name McDermitt Caldera is probably unfamiliar. It belongs to an extinct volcano that last erupted approximately 16 million years ago. But for lithium hunters, it's the biggest gold mine find of the century.

In 2020, scientists published a shocking discovery that the caldera contains what could be the largest amount of lithium in the world, locked up in an unusual type of clay called illite.

Recent research has gone one step further. In August, researchers reported that the illite in the southern portion of McDermitt Caldera, called Thacker Pass, contains about 1.8% lithium, on average.

That's almost double the lithium present in magnesium smectite, the main type of clay mined for lithium, today, Chemistry World reported.

This means a couple of things: McDermitt Caldera, located along the Nevada-Oregon border, could contain over 132 million tons of lithium  enough to meet global demand for decades, Jalopnik reported.

It also means the US, which only has one active lithium mine, may no longer have to rely on other countries for much of its lithium.

The US has an estimated 8 million metric tons of lithium embedded in its soil, ranking it in the top five countries worldwide with the most reserves, yet the country makes up just 1% of global lithium production, according to Minerals Make Life.

And demand for lithium is only expected to soar since it's a key ingredient for rechargeable batteries used in electric vehicles.

The country needs more lithium to keep up with supply chains for electric vehicles. And McDermitt Caldera could be that resource.

"It could change the dynamics of lithium globally, in terms of price, security of supply, and geopolitics," Anouk Borst, a geologist at KU Leuven University and the Royal Museum for Central Africa in Tervuren, Belgium, told Chemistry World.

There's just one thing: local Indigenous communities say Thacker Pass is sacred land where they harvest traditional medicines, foods, and supplies for sacred ceremonies, The Guardian reported.

"There's burial sites there. There's medicines and roots there, there's ecosystems  there is still life back there," Gary McKinney of the Shoshone-Paiute Indigenous tribe local to Thacker Pass, told Al Jazeera. "And it's all being sacrificed supposedly to fix the climate crisis."

McKinney is part of the Indigenous group called People of Red Mountain that has opposed lithium mining at Thacker Pass.

But a federal court denied opponent's requests for an injunction, and in March the company Lithium Americas said workers had started drilling and building infrastructure at the site, Al Jazeera reported.

"The world needs to know that this lithium mining, and this fast-tracking of lithium mining, is a continuation of racism on Paiute and Shoshone people," McKinney told NPR.

Lithium extraction methods can lead to water pollution, land degradation, and potential groundwater contamination, per Earth.org. An estimated 79% of lithium reserves in the US are within 35 miles of Native American reservations, according to the MSCI Sustainability Institute.

Read the original article on Business Insider
GOP presidential contender Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released his White House economic plan on Wednesday, making him the latest contender to offer an economic blueprint and coming against the backdrop of a looming, potential government shutdown as House GOP members grapple with how to keep the government funded past September.

Some of the points that Scott raised in his plan include cutting non-defense discretionary spending to pre-pandemic levels; instituting the policy of merit pay for government officials instead of automatic raises; implementing several tax policies, such as eliminating the death tax and stop the Biden Tax Hike  a nod to his fiscal year 2024 budget proposal that includes a slight increase in the top marginal income tax rate and would have the wealthiest .01 percent of families paying a 25 percent tax rate.

The plan also calls for the creation of a Welfare Reform 2.0 that would create stricter work requirements for programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as food stamps; avoiding blunt trade wars with our friends and allies that hurt consumers and set us back in the mission of isolating China; and revamping the research and development (R&D) tax credit.

On Joe Bidens watch, China builds while America borrows. I have a plan to stop borrowing and start building, and create a future Made in America, Scott said in a statement upon the release of his economic plan.

As President, I will cut socialist government spending, reclaim our supply chains, cut taxes, and unleash American energy. We will lead the world in building, growing, and inventing the future, he added.

The Democratic National Committee responded to Scotts unveiled economic plan on Thursday, with spokesperson Rhyan Lake saying in a statement that Tim Scott said the quiet part out loud: hes running on the same exact failed MAGAnomics as Donald Trump.

President Biden is the only person in the 2024 race who is fighting to grow the economy from the bottom up and middle out, empower workers, and lower costs for families. Well take Bidenomics over MAGAnomics any day of the week, Lake added.

Scotts plan comes as the South Carolina Republican still trails far behind former President Trump, though some polling suggests hes seen his support increase slightly. An Emerson College Polling survey in Iowa out on Tuesday, for example, showed Scott polling at 8 percent, up 3 percent from May.

Meanwhile, Trump sat at 49 percent, down from 62 percent in May. DeSantis sat at 14 percent, down from 20 percent in May.

In other surveys, the South Carolina Republican polling behind several other challengers, like an Iowa State University/Civiqs poll, that had Scott placing fifth behind Trump, DeSantis, biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley in Iowa.

Still, Trump has shown his continued dominance in the 2024 GOP primary despite growing legal challenges, raising questions over whether any of his challengers will be able to dethrone him from first place by the time of the Iowa caucuses.

The South Carolina Republicans plan also comes against the backdrop of an impending potential government shutdown later this month as House Republicans grapple with a series of spending bills that need to be passed within the next few weeks, or a short-term spending bill in the meantime.

 Updated at 1:28 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
DAMASCUS, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- In the second attack on late Wednesday, an Israeli missile strike hit Syrian military sites in the central province of Hama and caused damage, the Syrian army said in a statement.

The attack, which was carried out from inside the Lebanese airspace, hit the sites in the countryside of Hama, said the statement.

Earlier in the day, two Syrian soldiers were killed and six others wounded in an Israeli missile strike in the coastal province of Tartous, according to the Syrian army.

The attacks are the latest in a string of Israeli missile strikes against Syrian military sites on the pretext that the targeted sites harbor weapons and fighters affiliated with Iran and the Lebanese Hezbollah group. 
The Coconino County Sheriff's Office used vehicles vehicle outfitted with special tracks for snow and mud.

A search was underway Thursday for a man who, according to authorities, shot at Coconino County deputies when they were responding to a domestic violence call.

According to a statement from the Coconino County Sheriff's Office, at about 6:51 a.m. Thursday, deputies responded to Valle for a domestic violence incident involving a weapon.

Officials said when deputies arrived, they found the victim had been assaulted throughout the evening and learned that the suspect, identified as 51-year-old Aaron Rose, had fled and was possibly armed.

While deputies searched and secured another residence related to the incident, deputies were shot at, the Sheriff's Office said.

A perimeter was set up as deputies pulled back, calling for additional units from the Northern Arizona Tactical Team as well as an Arizona Department of Public Safety helicopter.

According to the Sheriff's Office, the search for Rose continued as of Thursday afternoon.

Rose was described as 5 feet 10 inches tall, 170 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes and was last seen wearing a plaid shirt and blue jeans. Officials said he is from Valle.

Those with information on Rose's location were urged to contact the Coconino County Sheriff's Office at 928-774-4523 or Silent Witness at 928-774-6111.

No other information was released as of Thursday afternoon.

This is a developing story. Check back to azcentral for updates.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Coconino County deputies shot at; search for shooter underway
A drug distribution network that was operating in and around Bellingham was broken up in August by a law enforcement investigation.

About a month ago, the Whatcom County Sheriffs Office Gang and Drug Task Force was notified that the network was being run from a homeless camp in the 4400 block of Guide Meridian. The location had been the site of multiple violent assaults, sexual assaults, fentanyl overdoses, stolen vehicle recoveries, stolen firearms and other criminal activity, according to a news release from the Whatcom County Sheriffs Office.

Detectives were surveying the location for much of August.

A suspect, Rigoberto Vasquez Martinez, was arrested in Oregon by State Police during a routine traffic stop on Aug. 29. Troopers located approximately 70,000 suspected fentanyl-laced pills in the vehicle along with $2,000 cash. This was enough fentanyl to kill the entire population of Bellingham, according to the news release.

Detectives believed that all of the suspected drugs were destined to be distributed in Bellingham, the release said.

Police that same day executed a search warrant on a storage unit in Lynnwood, Washington, north of Seattle, that was identified as being used by Martinez. Inside, police found 3,000 grams of suspected fentanyl powder, 500 grams of suspected fentanyl-laced pills, 1,000 grams of suspected heroin, 300 grams of suspected methamphetamine, a loaded 9mm handgun and $46,000 in cash.

Bellingham law enforcement executed a search warrant of the Guide Meridian homeless encampment two days later, on Aug. 31. Inside they found four firearms, including an AR-15 assault-style rifle; an illegal, sawed-off shotgun; a reported stolen .22 caliber pistol and a 12-gauge shotgun; a small amount of suspected fentanyl powder, drug packaging material and other drug paraphernalia, and $5,876 in cash.

Also at the Bellingham encampment were 13 dogs, including 11 puppies, which were delivered to the Whatcom Humane Society.

Information on whether there were any arrests in Bellingham was not immediately available.
A Seattle police officer was recorded laughing about the death of a young Indian woman who was killed after being hit by a police car.

Jaahnavi Kandula, 23, was struck by police officer Kevin Daves car on the morning of Jan. 23. Dave was reportedly responding to an overdose at the time, driving 74 mph in a 25 mph area. Kandula died later that night.

On Jan. 24, officer Daniel Auderer, vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, was recorded speaking on the phone, allegedly to Mike Solan, president of the guild.

In the recording, Auderer said there did not appear to be a criminal investigation into Daves driving.

I mean, hes going 50, Auderer said. Thats not out of control, thats not reckless for a trained driver.

Solans responses cannot be heard on the recording, but Auderer adds, Initially, he said she was in a crosswalk. There was a witness that says no she wasnt. But that witness can be different because I dont think she was thrown 40 feet either.

The Seattle Police Departments (SPD) traffic collision investigation squad later reported that Dave struck Kandula at approximately 63 mph, and Kandula was thrown approximately 138 feet.

When Kandula saw Dave speeding toward her, witnesses said she broke into a run, according to reporting by The Seattle Times.

In the recording, Auderer was heard saying he thinks Kandula fell on the hood of Daves windshield, and when he hit the brakes, she flew off the car.

But she is dead, Auderer said.

Auderer can then be heard laughing before he said, Yeah, just write a check. $11,000. She was 26 anyway, she had limited value.

SPD said in a statement this week that the recording was identified by an employee who, concerned about the nature of statements heard on that video, appropriately escalated their concerns through their chain of command to the Chiefs Office.

The chiefs office then sent the video to the citys Office of Police Accountability for investigation into the context in which those statements were made and any policy violation that might be implicated.

Auderer has since defended his comments.

In conversation with KTTH conservative talk radio host Jason Rantz, Auderer reportedly said, it would sound really bad without context.

The context of what he was responding to, mocking city lawyers trying to get out of paying the family of a young victim, is important, Rantz tweeted.

Rantz said he had access to the self-report Auderer filed with the Office of Police Accountability following release of the recording.

In his report, according to Rantz, Auderer wrote, I do understand that if a citizen were to hear it that they would rightfully believe I was being insensitive to the loss of a human life. I also understand that if I heard it (it) could diminish the trust in the Seattle Police Department and make all of our jobs more difficult. With all that being said, the comment was not made with malice or a hard heart. (It was) quite the opposite.

I intended the comment as a mockery of lawyers, Auderer said, according to reporting by KTTH. I was imitating what a lawyer tasked with negotiating the case would be saying and being sarcastic to express that they shouldnt be coming up with crazy arguments to minimize the payment. I laughed at the ridiculousness of how these incidents are litigated and the ridiculousness of how I watched these incidents play out as two parties bargain over a tragedy.

The King County Prosecuting Attorneys Office is now conducting a criminal review of the crash.

Kandula was meant to graduate in December with a masters degree in information systems from the Seattle campus of Northeastern University. According to family, she had been working toward supporting her mother in India.

Her uncle, Ashok Mandula, told The Seattle Times that the family has nothing to say. Except I wonder if these mens daughters or granddaughters have value. A life is a life.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Seattle police officer is under investigation after his body-worn camera captured a phone conversation following the death of a woman who was fatally struck by a police car in which the officer is laughing and says the victim had limited value, according to the footage and a statement from the Seattle Police Department.

The officer, Daniel Auderer, was dispatched to a crash scene on January 23 after another officer hit and killed 23-year-old Jaahnavi Kandula in a crosswalk while responding to a call, according to police documents. Auderer, who is trained as a drug recognition expert, was sent to see if the officer who struck Kandula was impaired, the documents said.

The next day, Auderers body-worn camera recorded the phone call in which Auderer discusses what happened. Only Auderers side of the conversation can be heard in the footage, which police released Monday.

Jaahnavi Kandula - Jaahnavi Kandula

In the footage, Auderer can be heard explaining how he thinks the victim was hit and then says, But she is dead. He laughs, apparently in response to a comment made by the person on the phone. No, its a regular person, Auderer says. Moments later, he replies, Yeah, just write a check and laughs again before adding, Yeah, $11,000. She was 26 anyway, incorrectly stating Kandulas age. She had limited value.

Auderer, who is the vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, was reportedly speaking to union president Mike Solan, according to the co-chairs of the Seattle Community Police Commission, which provides oversight of the citys police department. They added that the comments were heartbreaking and shockingly insensitive.

CNN has reached out to Auderer, Solan and the Seattle Police Officers Guild for comment.

Auderer has reportedly said his comments about the womans value were intended to be a mockery of city lawyers, according to conservative KTTH talk radio host Jason Rantz, who says his show obtained a document in which Auderer self-reported his comments to the police department after realizing they had been recorded.

I was imitating what a lawyer tasked with negotiating the case would be saying and being sarcastic to express that they shouldnt be coming up with crazy arguments to minimize the payment, Auderer wrote in the document, according to Rantz.

Auderer said the comments were not made with malice, according to Rantz.

I do understand that if a citizen were to hear it that they would rightfully believe I was being insensitive to the loss of a human life, Auderer reportedly wrote.

The reported explanation that he was mocking lawyers does not make this unprofessional and inhumane conduct any better because it shows  a callous dismissiveness toward police accountability systems, the community police commission co-chairs said.

The police department said in the Monday statement that the footage was discovered in the routine course of business by a department employee and passed through the chain of command to the chiefs office. The footage was referred to the police departments Office of Police Accountability for investigation into the context in which those statements were made and any policy violation that might be implicated, the statement said.

The department has been in touch with the family of the victim pedestrian and continues to honor their expressed request for privacy. As others in the accountability system proceed with their work, we again extend our deepest sympathy for this tragic collision, the statement said.

The King County Prosecuting Attorneys Office confirmed to CNN that it is conducting a criminal review of the fatal crash but said the Office of Police Accountability is responsible for investigating Auderers body camera footage.

The Indian Consulate General in San Francisco on Wednesday called for a thorough investigation into Kandulas death.

Recent reports including in media of the handling of Ms Jaahnavi Kandulas death in a road accident in Seattle in January are deeply troubling, the consulate wrote on X, previously known as Twitter.

The consulate said it has contacted local authorities and senior officials in Washington, DC, about the case.

CNNs Andi Babineau contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
While statewide college enrollment has declined in the last 10 years, some schools are seeing record-setting enrollment numbers.

Other schools, meanwhile, have seen an overall decline in enrollment. Heres what enrollment at the public four-year colleges in Kentucky has looked like in the recent years.

Aaron Thompson, president of the Council on Postsecondary Education which oversees Kentuckys state universities and community and technical colleges, said there are several reasons for changing college enrollment in the state. Population declines mean there are fewer students who are college-aged, and there has also been a drop in the number of non-traditional students enrolling.

For students who are first-generation or low income, there may also be difficulties navigating the college process, Thompson said. They may not have someone to guide them through the application or financial aid process. None of these things popped up overnight, and Thompson said CPE and the state have been working to address them in recent years.

Were seeing all of these compound to have an effect on college enrollment, Thompson said. Weve known this in Kentucky, so we were hitting it differently and harder than other states, and it helped us start rebounding faster.

Enrollment numbers are typically not finalized until several months into the fall semester, after the date when students can drop classes or change their enrollment status. Numbers for the fall 2023 semester are estimates until that point.

Early estimates are showing an increase in overall enrollment from last year, Thompson said.

Universities are listed by their total enrollment size, from largest to smallest. Data was taken from each universitys Fact Book and the Council on Postsecondary Educations enrollment data, unless otherwise noted.

University of Kentucky

The largest university in the state is one of the schools that has seen record-setting growth in the past two years. UK is expecting between 6,400 and 6,500 freshmen students this fall, its largest first-year class. Total enrollment is expected to set a new record this fall.

Enrollment has been on an upward trajectory in the last 10 years. Total enrollment was 28,928 in 2012-13. Last year, enrollment was 32,710  a 13% increase.

University of Louisville

The University of Louisville has seen slight enrollment growth in the last 10 years. Enrollment was 23,043 for the fall 2022 semester. Enrollment has fluctuated year-to-year, but that number is up from 22,293 in the 2012-13 academic year.

KCTCS

The Kentucky Community and Technical College System has seen an overall enrollment decline in recent years. In the 2012-13 school year, there were 134,772 students enrolled in all KCTCS locations, according to the systems database. Last year, there were 101,127.

Jefferson Community and Technical College, in Louisville, and Bluegrass Community and Technical College, in Lexington, have remained the largest two locations throughout that time period.

In 2012-13, there were 19,837 students enrolled at JCTC. There were 16,918 students enrolled last year.

Bluegrass had 17,788 students enrolled 10 years ago. There were 14,764 enrolled last year. BCTC is expecting an increase in enrollment for the fall semester, said Greg Feeny, acting president.

The renovated Eastern State Hospital laundry building, now called The Den and home to student services including the bookstore, was recently opened at Bluegrass Community and Technical College  Newtown Campus in Lexington, Ky., on Thursday, May 26, 2022. Ryan C. Hermens/rhermens@herald-leader.com

Western Kentucky University

Enrollment at Western Kentucky University has been on an overall decline in the last 10 years, dropping by 20%. Enrollment in 2012 was 21,124. There were 16,495 students enrolled at WKU in 2022.

At a faculty convocation in August, WKU President Timothy Caboni said the university was predicting a 3.1% enrollment increase for the 2023-24 school year. Specific enrollment numbers for the upcoming school year were not announced.

Northern Kentucky University

Northern Kentucky University has seen slight growth in its enrollment in recent years. There were 15,827 students enrolled last year.

In the 2012-13 school year, there were 15,660 students enrolled.

Eastern Kentucky University

EKU is another regional university that has seen an overall enrollment decline in recent years. There were 14,324 students enrolled in the fall 2022 semester.

Ten years ago, there were 15,968 students enrolled.

Murray State University

Like other state universities, Murray State has seen a decrease in enrollment in the last 10 years. There were 9,489 students enrolled at Murray State last year. In 2012, there were 10,832.

Morehead State University

Morehead State University has also experienced enrollment declines. There were 8,810 students enrolled in fall 2022. In 2012, there were 11,172.

Kentucky State University in Frankfort Silas Walker/swalker@herald-leader.com

Kentucky State University

Kentucky State University has seen a 32% enrollment decrease in the last 10 years. Last year, there were 1,726 students enrolled at KSU. In 2012, there were 2,524.

KSU saw a dramatic drop in student enrollment from 2021 to 2022 of more than 24%. Enrollment decreased from 2,279 to 1,726.
U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff , head of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Human Rights, is requesting the U.S. Department of Justice investigate conditions at the Clayton County Jail.

According to a letter sent by Ossoff to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, the senator has continued to receive disturbing reports concerning continued abuses inside the jail even after the conviction and removal of former Sheriff Victor Hill for charges of violating inmates civil rights.

The letter comes days after the U.S. Bureau of Prisons confirmed to Channel 2 Action News that Hills 18-month sentence had been reduced by roughly three months.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Additionally, Clayton County Jail would be the second Georgia prison under investigation by DOJ if the department proceeds, following their opening of an investigation into the Fulton County Jail in July.

As a result of the reported continuing complaints received by Ossoffs office, he has asked for federal intervention. In the letter to Garland, Ossoff cited some examples of recent issues at the jail.

These reports paint a deeply disturbing portrait of systemic rights violations that cannot be overlooked. Rooted in our shared commitment to uphold the pillars of justice and civil rights, I ask the Department of Justice to honor its mandate under the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA) and investigate Clayton County Jail. One month after the former sheriffs conviction, Terry Thurmond was booked into Clayton County Jail and died one day later. The 38-year-old man struggled with bipolar disorder and paranoid schizophreniaa fact the jail failed to documentand tried to jump from a second-story ledge before inmates and jailers pulled him back, Ossoff wrote in the letter.

Ossoff said that during the struggle with Thurmond, officers used a stun gun and left him lifeless for 20 minutes before medical staff arrived.

TRENDING STORIES:

A medical examiners report on the incident ruled his death a homicide, according to Ossoffs letter. A Clayton County Grand Jury declined to indict the officers involved in the incident.

In a separate example, Ossoff mentioned reports of bedbugs in the jail where an inmate told a reporter bedbugs feast on him at night...but the guards wont give him a new uniform.

Bleak conditions like bedbug infestations are not limited to Clayton County Jail but reports of medical neglect at the facility shock the conscience, Ossoff said.

Another incident mentioned focused on jail staff not providing medical treatment because the inmate, Alan Willison Jr., had put in more requests than what was allowed, according to Ossoffs office.

Despite suffering from extreme pain and requesting medical treatment, Ossoff said Willison was only given Tylenol. Eventually, Willison died of testicular cancer.

The process of obtaining medical records from the jail was reportedly difficult, requiring court intervention and legal battles between the jail and the medical examiners office as reported by Channel 2 Investigative Reporter Mark Winne.

In multiple examples, listed by Ossoff, the behavior of guards at the jail is central to issues he said were reported to his office.

Just last month my office heard from a man who alleged that guards beat him in the showers, threatened to stun him with a Taser despite his disclosure that he had a heart condition, and transported him to a hospital when he collapsed in cardiac arrest. He survived but was hospitalized for six days and, according to him, was left with a bill for $95,684.85, Ossoff said.

Additionally, Ossoff wrote that only a few cases are matters of public records. He cited reporting on inmates Carin Hatchett, Demetrius Alexander, Eugene Evans, Jaylan Goodman and more who met similar, untimely, unnecessary fates at the Clayton County Jail.

Ossoff said he was echoing detainees and their loved ones calls for help, and requesting DOJ assistance to investigate conditions at the Clayton County Jail.

Channel 2 Action News has reached out to Clayton County Sheriffs Office and Sheriff Levon Allen for comment on Ossoffs letter. We are awaiting a response.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

OTHER NEWS:
As Utah Sen. Mitt Romney announced his decision to not run for reelection Wednesday, an excerpt of a biography about him Romney: A Reckoning, by The Atlantic writer McKay Coppins, reveals bombshell accounts of his last few years in the Senate, following Jan. 6, 2021.

The excerpt, published by The Atlantic, includes an exchange Romney had with Sen. Angus King, I-Maine.

King told Romney that he had been briefed by a Pentagon official, who said that extremist groups were holding a rally in Washington, D.C., to take back the 2020 presidential election.

The president has been telling them the election was stolen; now theyre coming to steal it back. Theres talk of gun smuggling, of bombs and arson, of targeting the traitors in Congress who are responsible for this travesty, wrote reporter McKay Coppins, the author of Romney: A Reckoning.

Related

Romney hung up the phone and texted Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell: In case you have not heard this, I just got a call from Angus King, who said that he had spoken with a senior official at the Pentagon. ... I hope that sufficient security plans are in place, but I am concerned that the instigator  the President  is the one who commands the reinforcements the DC and Capitol police might require.

But McConnell never responded, leaving senators, like Romney, to scramble to safety as the rioters stormed in.

McConnell stood up for Romney

Although McConnell often aligned with former President Donald Trump, he defended Romney when Trump posted a series of attacks directed at the Utah senator on social media.

Romney had called Trumps tries at forcing Ukrainian leaders to investigate the Biden familys business dealings wrong and appalling. And Trump didnt like that. When Romney thanked McConnell for standing up for him, McConnell said, It wasnt for you so much as for him. Hes an idiot. He doesnt think when he says things.

Youre lucky, he added. You can say the things that we all think. Youre in a position to say things about him that we all agree with but cant say.

The excerpt stated that while McConnell didnt publicly condemn Trump, he revealed his stance in private. Romney recalled McConnell saying, They nailed him, during the impeachment trial in January 2020.

Romneys distaste for J.D. Vance

The book also takes a jab at Sen. J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, who Romney became acquainted with in 2018. Romney had invited Vance, a successful author at the time, to his annual Park City summit.

But Romney told Coppins that Vance had reinvented himself as a MAGA politician to run for a Senate seat.

I dont know that I can disrespect someone more than J.D. Vance, said Romney, who was uncomfortable with the thought of Vance joining the Republican Conference. How do you sit next to him at lunch?

Still, Romney and Vance have found a way to work together and are currently co-sponsors of a bill introduced in the Senate to raise the minimum wage to $11.

Despite rising costs of living, the federal minimum wage has not been increased in more than a decade, which has left millions of Americans struggling to make ends meet, Romney said in a press release emailed to the Deseret News.

The proposal, originally introduced in 2021, also seeks to require e-verification for employers to ensure that the wage increases go only to those who are authorized to work.

Romneys plans for the future

After Jan. 6, Romney lost some faith in the political system. A very large portion of my party, he told Coppins, really doesnt believe in the Constitution.

In a press conference Wednesday afternoon, Romney responded to a question about the quote: When you had President Trump say that we should put the Constitution aside and reinstall him as the president, thats a pretty clear indication that the leader of the party believes the Constitution is there to be followed when its useful. In my view it is there to be followed under all circumstances.

He had considered running for president in 2024 but abandoned the idea because he thinks all the candidates should clear the path for one person to go up against Trump. Instead, Romney thought about creating a new political party to promote centrist policies, with the help of Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va.

Related

The idea wasnt to put forward a candidate, who would be doomed between the Biden-Trump rematch, but to support the one who closely aligns with their agenda, Coppins wrote.

Its hard to say whether Romney is still considering the idea, but what is for certain is his commitment to public service, which he said he inherited from his dad.

Romney: A Reckoning is set to publish Oct. 24.
The US Senate has launched a formal inquiry into the Coast Guards handling of a secret, yearslong investigation that found rapes, sexual assaults and other serious misconduct at the agencys academy had been ignored and, at times, covered up by high-ranking officials.

Dubbed Operation Fouled Anchor, the investigation was kept confidential by Coast Guard leaders until CNN started making inquiries into the report.

In the wake of CNNs reporting, Coast Guard officials briefed congressional leaders about the investigation, which substantiated dozens of assaults and found that some of the accused had ascended to top roles at the Coast Guard and other military agencies. Many of the alleged victims, meanwhile, left the academy after reporting their assaults and had spent decades coping with severe negative effects to their careers and mental and physical health, according to the report and interviews with former academy cadets.

Lawmakers in the Capitol were outraged that the Coast Guard had withheld the findings from them for years. Sen. Richard Blumenthal , a Democrat from Connecticut, where the academy is based, called the suppression of the report probably the most shameful, disgraceful incident of cover-up of sexual assault that I have seen in the United States military ever.

This delay in disclosure raises serious questions about why information about the conduct of USCG personnel and safety of cadets was withheld for so long, Blumenthal, chair of the Senate Committee on Homeland Securitys Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations wrote in a letter, along with ranking member Republican Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin. The letter was sent this week to US Coast Guard Commandant Linda Fagan, notifying her of the subcommittees inquiry.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat from Connecticut, where the academy is based, called the suppression of Fouled Anchor's findings "probably the most shameful, disgraceful incident of cover-up of sexual assault that I have seen in the United States military ever." - Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

The public deserves to know why so many reported cases of sexual assault and harassment were allowed to go uninvestigated for so many years, they wrote. In the letter, the senators requested a litany of documents from the agency, including all documents from the Fouled Anchor investigation and all investigations into sexual assault at the academy from 2006 to present.

Earlier this year, members of Congress said they were particularly troubled that Fouled Anchor had been kept from them at a time when they were already investigating the academys handling of bullying and harassment allegations prompted by Commander Kimberly Young-McLear, a Coast Guard senior officer and whistleblower.

In both these instances, when confronted with allegations of mistreatment raised by those in subordinate positions (the majority were women), the Service failed to prioritize the appropriate investigation of the allegations, and then it resisted addressing forthrightly the institutional failures that enabled the mishandling of such allegations, House Democratic Reps. Jamie Raskin of Maryland and Bennie Thompson of Mississippi, ranking members of the House Oversight and Homeland Security committees, respectively, wrote to Fagan in July.

Following CNNs story on the investigation, Coast Guard leaders apologized to to the agencys entire workforce, assault survivors and Congress. The agency launched its own review of policies on assault and harassment. House and Senate lawmakers have said that doesnt go far enough, calling for independent investigations and pressing the agency for more information.

Last month, former vice commandant Adm. Charles Ray retired from his position at a Coast Guard Academy leadership institute after CNN reported he helped keep Fouled Anchor secret.

There has been a great deal of public discourse on decisions I was a part of during my last two years of service, he said in a statement at the time. I fully accept the criticism for my actions and have learned from reflecting on them.

This story has been updated to reflect Kimberly Young-McLears title as a commander in the Coast Guard.

Do you have information to share about the Coast Guard? Email melanie.hicken@cnn.com.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
In the midst of an historic recruiting crisis, two U.S. senators are pressing the Defense Department on whether a new medical screening system is hindering recruitment.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., sent Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin a letter Wednesday seeking answers about whether Military Health System Genesis  a medical records platform that the military first used for screening recruits last year  has slowed the recruitment process by forcing qualified applicants to secure medical waivers.

While some of these flags merit review, the system is also delaying enlistees with manageable or long-healed injuries, the letter states. This may delay recruits enlistment processes if medical conditions require applicants to obtain medical waivers, which can take weeks or even months to be completed.

The letter cites a Military Times report this spring in which recruiters from across the services alleged Genesis was making it harder to fill the ranks as the military struggles to meet its recruiting targets.

These shortfalls are expected to leave the Army, Navy and Air Force well short of their recruiting goals when the fiscal year ends Sept. 30.

The Genesis of todays recruiting crisis

It is essential that recruits are healthy enough to enlist in the military, the Senate Armed Services Committee members wrote. However, DoD needs to examine the steps it is taking to ensure that the process of enlisting and obtaining waivers does not impede the recruitment process.

Genesis has complicated recruiting because, when applicants try to join, the system pulls all their health records, often unearthing medical conditions that require them to seek waivers or that disqualify them entirely, recruiters said.

Some of these conditions may have healed long ago and have no bearing on applicants potential to serve, according to recruiters.

As the enlistment process stretches out, some young people lose interest in serving, recruiters said.

It comes to the point where theyre like, This is too much work, Im just gonna go apply at Starbucks, a Navy recruiter told Military Times earlier this year.

A Pentagon watchdog report from May confirmed that medical waiver processing times had grown across the services.

Warren and Blumenthals letter cites the chief of naval personnel, Vice Adm. Rick Cheeseman, reporting that the time between first interview and contract for Navy applicants rose from 33.8 days to 63.4 days after Genesis was put in place.

Even after making some fixes, the processing time for prospective sailors was still at 59.9 days, according to the letter. The Navy is working with the Center for Naval Analyses to better understand the root cause of these delays, according to the senators letter.

We urge the other services to also evaluate these delays and implement policy changes as soon as possible to address these inefficiencies, the senators wrote.

Maj. Gen. Edward Thomas, the head of Air Force Recruiting Service, said in February that the congressionally mandated Genesis system wasnt ready for deployment in recruiting.

Need for accession waivers soars amid historic recruiting challenges

Warren and Blumenthals letter also cites Military Times reporting showing that the number of applicants seeking waivers has soared, though the Pentagons data was inconsistent with that of the services and the Army refused to provide data. Army Times reporting revealed the branch mobilized Reserve doctors to get through a medical waiver backlog.

The senators requested data on processing delays and waivers, and asked what steps the military is taking to evaluate changes to what disqualifies applicants from service.

Defense Department officials said this spring that Genesis does not reduce the population of qualified applicants  it just confirms their physical and mental readiness to serve. Officials did not answer questions regarding whether they believed Genesis had played a role in the current recruiting crisis.

In Wednesdays letter, the senators also sought answers regarding how DoD protects the private patient records in Genesis.

The Genesis system is based on a product by Cerner, which Oracle acquired in June 2022. In its role as a broker of online data, Oracle has come under scrutiny for alleged violations of peoples privacy, the senators wrote.

Warren and Blumenthal also raised concerns that service members and their families may need to provide a credit card number to log on to the system, potentially creating a barrier to access.

Recruiters previously told Military Times that one way Genesis hampered recruiting is by making it harder for applicants to downplay medical conditions. It used to be that applicants could get into the military by fudging aspects of their self-reported medical histories, recruiters said.

Numbers game: Inside the Armys end strength scramble

Now that Genesis exists, we can no longer hide things, one Marine recruiter told Military Times.

The letter from Warren and Blumenthal didnt address that aspect of Genesis reported effect on recruiting.

The senators requested answers from Austins office by Oct. 11.

The Office of the Secretary for Defense didnt immediately respond to Military Times request for comment on the letter.
South Korean armored vehicles are paraded as part of the Armed Forces Day ceremony in Seoul in 2013. Credit - Chung Sung-junGetty Images

For the first time in a decade, the streets of downtown Seoul will host a procession of tanks, fighter jets, and other advanced military assets, the South Korean Ministry of Defence announced on Wednesday.

The last time the country staged a military parade was in 2013. Its next will take place on Sept. 26 to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the countrys armed forces. But its more than just a commemoration. The display of might coincides with escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

North Korea regularly holds military parades. Its most recent, and third of the year so far, was held last week and was attended by the countrys leader Kim Jong Un as well as delegations from Russia and China. As Pyongyang seeks to bolster its partnerships with Moscow and Beijing, it has also ramped up its aggressive rhetoric and weapons testing. Earlier this week, while Kim met with Putin in Russia over a suspected arms deal, North Korea launched its 20th missile test of the year.

Read More: North Korea Keeps Launching Missile Tests. How Worried Should We Be?

South Korea used to hold a military parade every five years for Armed Forces Day, but in 2018, amid efforts to de-escalate tensions with its northern neighbor, former President Moon Jae-in swapped the usual march of tanks and munitions with a more celebratory ceremony headlined by popstar Psy.

But Moons successor Yoon Suk-yeol, elected in 2022, has brought back a hardline approach. The theme of this years parade, according to the official announcement, is strong military, strong security, and peace through strength.

While plenty of Korean weaponry will be on display, Gordon Kang, a senior analyst at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, tells TIME that a more notable feature this year will be the increased optics around South Koreas alliance with the U.S., which has recently been strengthened. For the first time, hundreds of American troops and several American aircraft are set to take part in the event, including through parachute drops to demonstrate combined operational capabilities, state-funded Yonhap News Agency reported.

The revival of military showmanship is not an unexpected move, Uk Yang, a research fellow at the Asan Policy Institute in Seoul, tells TIME, for a conservative like Yoon. The parade will be as much a message to the domestic population as it will be to international observers. He puts a lot of trust in the military, Yang says of Yoon, and wants to show the Korean people that tax monies were sent to the military.

For Yoon's government, the parade offers a welcome distraction for South Koreans facing a worsening economic outlook and recently preoccupied by Chinese-inflated concerns over the safety of seafood, a staple of Korean cuisine. Yoons public approval rating has also dipped lately, with survey respondents identifying defense and diplomacy as the factors most affecting their assessment of the leader.

Read More: How Seafood Became the Latest Flashpoint in Korean Politics

The government wants to underscore its commitment to, essentially, safeguarding South Koreas sovereignty, says Kang. It wants to signal its willingness and capability to deter in the face of evolving security challenges, North Korea or otherwise.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Chen Wenqing, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the Commission for Political and Legal Affairs of the CPC Central Committee, meets with To Lam, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and Vietnamese Minister of Public Security, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 14, 2023. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chen Wenqing, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the Commission for Political and Legal Affairs of the CPC Central Committee, met with To Lam, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and Vietnamese Minister of Public Security, in Beijing on Thursday.

Chen said under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China and Vietnam have developed bilateral relations based on mutual respect, equal treatment, and mutual benefit.

Noting that law enforcement and security cooperation is a significant part of China-Vietnam bilateral relations, Chen said it is hoped that the two sides will work together to implement the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two parties and countries, continuously push forward the vigorous development of China-Vietnam law enforcement and security cooperation, and consolidate the security foundation of the China-Vietnam community of shared future.

For his part, To Lam said Vietnam is willing to push Vietnam-China law enforcement and security cooperation to a new level. 

Chen Wenqing, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the Commission for Political and Legal Affairs of the CPC Central Committee, meets with To Lam, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and Vietnamese Minister of Public Security, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 14, 2023. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)
Multiple waterspouts were reported off North Carolinas Outer Banks as Hurricane Lee continued to stir conditions in the Atlantic Ocean along the East Coast.

Video recorded by the Chicamacomico Banks Fire & Rescue shows a spout appeared Wednesday, Sept. 13, as a storm raged off Rodanthe near Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Rodanthe Pier staff also reported a waterspout, and noted in a Facebook post that it was accompanied by rough surf.

We have received several reports of waterspouts associated with thunderstorms impacting the area today, the National Weather Service posted around 2 p.m. Wednesday.

For those near the water, please be mindful of nearby thunderstorms and be ready to take shelter.

The reports also included waterspouts in the Pamlico Sound, between the Outer Banks and mainland North Carolina, according to WITN Chief Meteorologist Zach Holder.

Waterspouts linked to ocean storms are referred to as tornadic waterspouts and have the same characteristics as a land tornado, the National Weather Service reports. They are ... often accompanied by high winds and seas, large hail, and frequent dangerous lightning.

Hurricane Lee is expected to stay about 300 miles east of the Outer Banks as it moves north, according to the National Hurricane Center, but the storms strong winds will reach the islands, Holder reports.

The storm is forecast to create coastal flooding and breaking waves of 10 to 15 feet in the surf zone.

Cape Lookout and Cape Hatteras national seashores have posted warnings that rough surf and rip currents have increased, making it too dangerous for swimmers to enter the ocean.

Horse frightened by storm gets stuck in a pool, photos show. Then NC rescuers show up

Woman sleeping in lifeguard tower dies when it falls in middle of night, VA cops say

For second time this summer, a record is broken for this tropical fish in NC waters
FILE - Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, dances with then Austrian Foreign Minister Karin Kneissl as he attends the wedding of Kneissl with Austrian businessman Wolfgang Meilinger in Gamlitz, southern Austria, Saturday, Aug. 18, 2018. Kneissl has announced on Telegram on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, she has moved to Russia to work for a think tank she has set up in St. Petersburg. (Alexei Druzhinin, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP, File)

LONDON (AP)  A former Austrian foreign minister who had invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to her wedding and danced a waltz with him at the 2018 reception said she has moved to St. Petersburg to set up a think tank there.

Karin Kneissl , 58, announced on messaging app Telegram on Wednesday that her ponies, which she has been keeping in Syria, were taken to Russia on a Russian military plane.

Kneissl was nominated as a non-party member by the right-wing Freedom Party to serve as foreign minister, a position which she held from 2017 to 2019.

She was repeatedly criticized in Austrian and German media during that time for her pro-Russia views. Her dance with Putin came just months after Russia was accused of poisoning former spy Sergei Skripal, and his daughter Yulia, with nerve agent Novichok in the United Kingdom.

Kneissl said in her post that she moved her books, clothes and ponies from Marseille to Beirut in June 2022, after Russia invaded Ukraine, after which she says she was "banished" from France.

At the Eastern Economic Forum in the far eastern Russian city of Vladivostok earlier this week, Kneissl told Russian state news agency Tass that she had set up the Gorki center  a think tank associated with the state university in St. Petersburg.

Because the think tank requires a lot of her time, she decided to move to Russia, she said.

The Gorki center, Kneissl told Tass, "deals, among other things, with issues of energy, migration and new alliances  issues in which I am well versed, which also affect the Arab and Islamic world, with which I am familiar.

Kneissl also said on Telegram that since apparently nothing is going on in Austria and Germany beyond the economic crisis, my relocation is becoming a political issue. She added, in a swipe likely at her critics, that the hatred that seeps out of Austria amazes not only me.

In an interview at the forum with Russian news agency RIA Novosti, Kneissl said, it's not easy to move to Russia because of the amount of paperwork involved but that she had already moved into an apartment she is renting in St. Petersburg.

___

Associated Press writer Kirsten Grieshaber in Berlin, Germany, contributed this report.
A Midlands man is going to prison after being found guilty of attacking a woman who he doused with gasoline and set on fire, the 5th Circuit Solicitors Office said Wednesday.

On Sept. 8, a Richland County jury convicted 43-year-old Keitrick Maurice Stevenson of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature, the solicitors office said in a news release. He was given the maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, according to the release.

The attack happened March 21, 2022, behind a gas station on North Main Street, the solicitors office said.

That night, Stevenson left his aunts home in Blythewood to find the victim, according to the release.

Keitrick Maurice Stevenson was convicted of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature, the solicitors office said.

He bought a pitcher and matches from a Family Dollar store, then continued searching for the victim, the solicitors office said. After finding her, the defendant purchased gasoline and placed it inside the pitcher and drove back to the victims location, according to the release.

Stevenson approached a group of people and singled out the woman, the Richland County Sheriffs Department said in 2022.

Video surveillance shows Stevenson walking up the street, approaching the victim and immediately dousing her with the gasoline in the pitcher, the solicitors office said. Stevenson then lit several matches as the victim backed away from him, according to the release.

As she tried to run away, she fell to the ground, the sheriffs department said.

Stevenson then threw the last match at her and the victim was engulfed in flames, the solicitors office said.

She was flown by helicopter to the Joseph Still Burn Center in Augusta, Georgia, where she spent 45 days  mostly in the intensive care unit  and had to be intubated for several weeks due to the injuries she suffered, according to the release. Further information on her condition was not available.

Stevenson was arrested, without incident, on April 5, 2022, after he was identified through his credit card purchase, and his DMV photo matched the person seen at the Family Dollar on video surveillance, the solicitors office said. He had a 2021 Toyota Camry registered to him that was also seen in the surveillance footage, according to the release.

After his arrest, Stevenson confessed, saying he was just trying to scare the victim, the solicitors office said.

There was no word about why he was trying to scare the victim or any other motive for the attack.

Stevenson was originally charged with attempted murder, said the sheriffs department, which led the investigation.

Kathryn Cavanaugh and Paul Walton prosecuted the assault case for the solicitors office. Richland County court records show Stevenson was defended by Columbia attorney Zoe Amelia Bruck after being previously defended by state Rep. Todd Rutherford, a Richland County Democrat.

When Stevenson was arrested in 2022, Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott called him an extremely violent repeat offender.

This isnt our first run-in with Mr. Stevenson, Lott said. We arrested him for stabbing a man to death in 2006. He did time for that and got out only to try and kill someone else. This man has a total disregard for human life.

In 2007, Stevenson pleaded guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to eight years in prison, court records show.

In 2015, he pleaded guilty to a drug charge and was sentenced to three years of probation, according to court records.

In 2006, Stevenson pleaded guilty to another drug charge, and was sentenced to time served, court records show.
She starved her daughter. She beat her with a belt, a spatula and a change purse.

She forced her to run in place with weights far too heavy for any 3-year-old to carry, and once Emma Grace Cole finally died  whether from malnutrition or "intentional suffocation"  she burned her body in a Smyrna softball field.

For these crimes, the toddler's mother, who appeared in court on Thursday in a red jumpsuit with black-rimmed glasses and her dark brown hair hanging straight down her back, will spend three decades behind bars.

Kristie Cole Haas, 31, was also sentenced to probation for the abuse of her other three children, Emma Graces half-siblings. The probation terms will run concurrently with the murder sentence.

The gravesite of Emma Grace Cole, located inside the Clear Creek Cemetery in Bloomington, Ind., on Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021. The site was decorated for the holidays by Cole's great aunt, Tanya Axsom Conley, whom Cole's mother, Kristie Cole Haas, had voluntarily given guardianship to in May 2016.

Kent County Superior Court Judge Noel Primos did not impose the 30-year no-contact order between Haas and her children that prosecutors had requested, citing a lack of jurisdiction over them. Those children are living with Haas mother in Indiana.

He did, however, emphasize that there is a current no-contact order in place, saying it will remain as is unless a court of "competent jurisdiction" rules differently.

The sentence, which was handed down in a courtroom filled with Emma Grace's relatives and Haas' family, comes about four months after Haas pleaded guilty to murder by abuse or neglect.

Following last-minute negotiations in late May after learning that her husband was cooperating with prosecutors, she also pleaded guilty to abuse of a corpse and endangering the welfare of a child.

"The defendant left her daughter without a grave or a name," prosecutor Kevin Smith said at Thursday morning's sentencing.

Brandon Haas, Kristies husband, was sentenced to four years in prison Thursday afternoon.

He pleaded guilty in a closed hearing in March after negotiating with prosecutors. There was no recommendation for his sentence, meaning the decision was in Primos hands.

"A piece of me died that day," wrote Tanya Axsom Conley, Emma Grace's great aunt, about the day she learned of Emma Grace's death.

Smith read Conley's victim impact statement aloud to the court as the woman sat a few rows behind.

"No amount of time (in prison) will ever be enough for Kristie," Conley said.

Finding Emma Grace and ID'ing mom, stepdad

The investigation into 3-year-old Emma Graces death began in September 2019, when a child who was with their family discovered the girls disarticulated, partially burnt remains at Smyrnas Little Lass Fields, according to a sentencing memorandum previously obtained by Delaware Online/The News Journal.

A family dog had brought one of Emma Graces bones to the family, and the child then found the girl by the banks of Duck Creek Pond, the memorandum said. Brush in the area was charred, and Haas later admitted to both police and her father via phone that shed burned Emma Graces remains.

For days, investigators worked under tents to gather evidence and try to identify the girl. Given the condition of her body, however, it wasnt until about two months later that the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children released two facial reconstruction sketches of what Emma Grace would have looked like when alive.

The images were based on CT scans of Emmas skull and created by a forensic sketch artist.

National Center for Missing and Exploited children forensic artist Paloma Galzi uses a stylus-like instrument to create a 3D image of a skull on her computer.

While tips flooded in, none produced any tangible leads. Then, almost exactly a year after Emma Grace was found, her grandfather, James Cole, found the forensic sketch on the Smyrna Police Department website.

Cole had begun searching for the toddler after Haas sister, Kelsey Cole Navarro, reported a strange conversation with their mother and then Haas. Haas also hadnt spoken to her father in more than a year, since June or July 2019  right around when Emma Grace died, police would later learn.

Within weeks, the FBI had set up surveillance outside the Comfort Inn and Suites on Baltimore Pike in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, where Haas, her husband and the living three children were staying. Kristie was spotted leaving the hotel with her son and dropped several items of trash in the hotel dumpster, which police collected for possible DNA.

BACKGROUND: 'Victim of child torture': New details emerge in murder of Emma Cole, girl found in Smyrna

Less than a week later, the Delaware Division of Forensic Science informed law enforcement that DNA taken from a straw Kristie threw out was a match to DNA taken from Emma Graces rib. Five days after that, the Haases were arrested separately in Pennsylvania.

A complex fiction

While Brandon Haas was immediately ready to tell police what had happened, the sentencing memorandum said, Haas spent four hours lying to investigators, saying Emma Grace was in a facility in Virginia receiving care for mental problems.

She invented a complex fiction about the toddlers progress at the facility and about having visited her there, the memo said. Finally, after agents confronted her about her lies, she told them that on a Saturday or Sunday morning before July 4, 2019, she woke up and found Emma Grace dead in the bedroom the toddler shared with her brother.

Haas also attempted vaguely to blame her husband for the girls death, the memorandum said, despite him not being in the house the night before or the morning Haas found Emma Grace dead.

Prosecutors have questioned the veracity of Haas statements regarding Emma Graces death, citing a Nemours Childrens Hospital doctor and child abuse experts opinion that intentional suffocation cannot be ruled out.

However, they do know that after Haas discovered Emma Grace, she informed her husband. According to both Hasses, Brandon Haas (expletive) lost it and wanted to call police, but his wife convinced him otherwise.

MORE DETAILS EMERGE: Inside the plea deals for mom, stepdad of toddler found dead in Smyrna softball field

Haas then took the girl to a place she called somewhere beautiful  later determined to be Little Lass Fields  but refused to tell her husband the location. Hed taken the three living kids for a drive while Haas discarded Emma Graces body.

An aerial view of Duck Creek Pond and the Smyrna-Clayton Little Lass softball fields.

In the FBI interview, Haas claimed she didnt bury her daughter because she wasnt somebodys trash. It remains unclear exactly how long Emma Graces body was there before she set it ablaze.

Haas told investigators that she burned the 3-year-old as a symbolic measure to set her free, the sentencing memorandum said.

Torture, abuse comes to light

In the months following the Hasses' arrests, Emma Graces three half-siblings were placed into foster care. All suffered malnutrition, which investigators strongly believe played a role in Emma Graces death.

As the living children began to recover both physically and, to a lesser extent, emotionally, they increasingly shared the horrific details of what they were subjected to by their mother and stepfather.

As previously reported by Delaware Online/The News Journal, that included forced exercise, such as pulling a weighted sled down the basement staircase, or wall sits, a leg exercise in which a person sits against the wall like they are in a chair but without support.

They were also subjected to chores inappropriate to their ages and even had hot sauce or pepper, or something else spicy, put under their tongue by Brandon Haas if they misbehaved.

Emma Grace, however, suffered the worst, all three told their therapists.

She would be smacked, but was too young to run and couldnt really do it, one of Emma Graces siblings told a forensic interviewer. If she stopped running, she would be hit with something  (including) a spatula, change purse, belt buckle and flip flops.

The child also told the interviewer Emma had bruises on her face, stomach and legs, stating "bruises were everywhere and provided an illustration.

ADDITIONAL COVERAGE: 'We've all been left out': Family not told prior to toddler's mother taking murder plea

As a result, the Nemours doctor and child abuse expert concluded that the Haases abused the living children but tortured Emma Grace.

The doctor stressed in her report that in the vernacular, use of the word torture commonly conjures images of crimes politically or militarily motivated, often committed by interrogators, jailers or other state agents.

But in the case of child torture, there are very specific criteria that must be met.

Tanya Axsom holds a picture of Emma Grace Cole and Santa on Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021, inside her home in Bloomington, Ind. Axsom was Cole's guardian for much of her short life.

Torture, she wrote in documents, is a distinct form of child abuse characterized by a range of abusive caretaker behavior that is too extreme to be simply classified as abuse.

Emma Cole was a victim of child torture, the doctor determined.

Notably, when the children were informed of their sisters death  Haas had told them the same story that she was at a hospital getting help  all three nearly immediately concluded their mother was responsible.

Could more have been done?

In the years since Emma Grace died, her family has struggled with unknowns and regrets, each wondering if they could have done more to prevent Haas from regaining custody of the girl  a decision an Indiana judge made hastily at a September 2017 hearing  and then following up when she was in Delaware.

Tanya Axsom Conley, Emma Graces guardian for her first year-and-a-half of life in Indiana, tried to keep in contact with Haas and Emma Grace. But after the 3-year-olds birthday in 2019, the video visits became more sporadic.

While Conley noted that Emma Grace was losing weight, her face growing increasingly emaciated, and spotted a bruise on the girls face during a Facetime call, there was only so much she could do from Indiana. The final video visit that Haas allowed was May 29, 2019  less than two months before the toddler was killed.

Conley has repeatedly told Delaware Online/The News Journal she made reports to the Delaware Division of Family Services at the time. But given the Haases had moved around due to financial issues, she didnt have a good address.

As a result, Delaware case workers couldnt do much, they reportedly told her.

REMEMBERING EMMA GRACE: A passion for Paw Patrol and a persuasive smile

Navarro, Haas sister, also said she didnt know where her sister lived. The woman was cagey and not forthright when they talked, and clammed up whenever she would ask about Emma Grace. The communication was infrequent, too.

And Cole, Haas father, had completely lost contact with his daughter around the time of Emma Graces death, though he didnt know until this past summer why she had stopped communicating.

He previously told Delaware Online/The News Journal he toyed with the idea of traveling to Delaware to look for her, but without knowing an address, he thought the trip from Kentucky, where he lives, would be fruitless.

Kelsey Cole Navarro, sister of Kristie Cole Haas, stands at the gravesite of her niece, Emma Grace Cole, on Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021, at Clear Creek Cemetery in Bloomington, Ind. "You choke up and you can't really breathe and think about a whole lot else except that a baby is in there and shouldn't be in there," Kelsey said.

The only people Haas remained close with were her mother  Belinda Johnson  and grandmother. Both women even came to Delaware when Emma Grace was still alive, though the grandmother left early due to a disagreement she had with Haas about how she parented, according to both Cole and Navarro.

But since-deleted Facebook posts also show that Johnson and her then-husband visited Delaware for Thanksgiving 2019, about two months after Emma Graces body was discovered.

Smith, the prosecutor, emphasized on Thursday that Johnson "never reported that Emma was no longer with" Haas.

"Delaware and Indiana both require anyone who suspects a child has been neglected or abused to make a report," Smith said. "Defendant's mother knew for over a year that Emma wasn't around anymore as she didn't hear her voice on phone calls.

"She accepted, apparently unquestioningly, the absurd story that Emma was at some facility for mentally ill toddlers," Smith continued. "That inaction has caused the state serious pause about her willingness to protect the children from her daughter."

Its unknown what the woman was told about where Emma Grace was, though Haas said at sentencing that "my mother had no knowledge of my acts or my lies."

"I lied, thats what I did," Haas said. "I lied to everybody."

Delaware Online/The News Journal has repeatedly been unable to get ahold of either Haas or Johnson for comment.

While Brandon Haas mother was robustly engaged in the childrens care up until late 2018 or early 2019  even offering to take Emma Grace from her son and daughter-in-law  due to a perceived disagreement" between her and the Haases, Emma and the children were isolated away from her.

In the summer of 2019, she said she had no further interaction with Emma, with whom she had a prior close and loving relationship.

A fathers regret, a mother's half-apology

At Thursdays sentencing, Emma Graces father, Joshua Douthitt, was tearful as he spoke about the limited role he played in his daughters life.

He was in jail at the time of the girls birth, having long struggled  like Haas  with drug addiction. Douthitt did not initially believe Emma Grace was his daughter, but he accepted paternity when she was several months old.

Douthitt has since gotten sober and is married, and his wife and baby were by his side on Thursday. The trio traveled from Indiana for the court hearing.

As he spoke from a podium in the center of courtroom 8, the man expressed remorse, saying that when he carried Emma Graces small, pink casket to be lowered into the ground, he felt complicit.

I was a terrible father  lost, selfish, but I was rebuilding my life and working hard, Douthitt said. The realization of that hurts to this very second.

He was angry, too, however, saying Haas led him on and made him believe that he could adopt Emma Grace, when in fact, the toddler was already dead.

The last time we spoke, I could have never imagined she passed away already, Douthitt said. You spoke like she would have had an amazing life. I will never understand your actions.

Haas, for her part on Thursday, addressed some of what she did, saying she would do anything in the world to be able to move back time and go back and correct my actions and my behavior.

Her attorney also stressed that the 31-year-old's upbringing, drug use and abuse, including sexual abuse, should be considered mitigating factors in her crimes. Her life, Patrick Collins said, "has been a nonstop disaster."

"It is glib to say that everyone who has such horrible lives don't turn out to commit crimes and things like that and yes, that's true on its face," Collins said. "But you know what, sometimes they do. Sometimes they are ill-equipped to (deal with) abuse they have suffered at the hands of people who supposedly cared for them."

Yet in her statement to the court, Haas painted herself as a victim, saying she lost a child due to her and Brandon Haas actions. She also attempted to blame her husband, saying she decided to go along with Brandon, decided not to get help.

However, in admitting his role in the abuse of Emma Grace and the three living children, Brandon Haas told investigators that his wifes punishment of the children was excessive. Both he and Haas also said that Haas was the one who convinced him not to call 911 after Emma Grace died.

Haas, additionally, did not once mention her daughter by name, and she only vaguely apologized to the girl, saying, I'm sorry that my actions caused so much pain to my children and my mom.

These words  and Haas' 30-year prison sentence  were not enough for much of Emma Graces family. Still, they said they take solace that the little girl, who was nameless for a year, is no longer in pain.

I find what peace any human being can possibly find knowing that Emma can never suffer again at you or anyone else's hands, Douthitt said, speaking to Haas while facing the judge. I love you Emma and I pray one day I see you in heaven.

Got a story tip or idea? Send to Isabel Hughes at ihughes@delawareonline.com. For all things breaking news, follow her on Twitter at @izzihughes_

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Mother of Emma Grace Cole sentenced for toddler's murder, abuse
The Wicomico County Sheriffs Office Criminal Investigation Division and the Salisbury Police Department Criminal Investigation Division are investigating four separate shooting incidents that have occurred in Wicomico County over about the past 36 hours.

The WCSO CID is investigating the first incident that occurred in the area of the 800 block of Chippewa Blvd during the nighttime hours of Sept. 12. It should be noted that this incident was unreported until a concerned citizen notified the WCSO CID, said the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office in a news release. It was then determined that numerous shots were fired in the area.

The WCSO CID is investigating the second shooting incident that occurred during the early morning hours of Sept. 14 in the area of the 800 block of Price Road. It was determined that numerous shots were fired but the shooting was not reported. WCSO did respond for a hit and run collision that appeared to be a result of vehicles fleeing the area after the shooting, the release said.

CRIME: 'Salisbury is in the middle of a gang war': State's attorney addresses juvenile crime

MORE CRIME: Free at last: How a 30-year miscarriage of justice was overturned to exonerate two men

According to the release, the WCSO CID is investigating the third shooting incident that occurred during the early morning hours of Sept. 14 at a residence in the 100 block of Carolyn Avenue. The residence was struck 13 times, by 2 separate shooters.

The SPD CID is investigating the fourth shooting incident that occurred in the 100 block of block of Davis Street in Salisbury. It was determined that the residence was struck by gun fire 3 times, the release said.

Crime Solvers of the Lower Eastern Shore is offering up to a $1,000 reward for anyone that provides information that leads to an arrest and conviction for these shootings. Anonymous information may be submitted to Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776 or through the Wicomico County Sheriffs Office app.

Olivia Minzola covers communities on the Lower Shore. Contact her with tips and story ideas at ominzola@delmarvanow.com.

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Police investigating four shootings in Wicomico County
Pictures of her sons dead body were projected on screens throughout the courtroom, and Alexis Murray Smith began to cry quietly as she saw what medical investigators and police did on the day of 12-year-old Brent Sullivans death from a fentanyl overdose.

This was on the second day of the trial against Murray Smith Wednesday in Eddy County District Court where she is charged with a count of intentional child abuse resulting in death, and child abuse not resulting in death.

The charges stemmed from the incident on Sept. 28, 2021 when Sullivan was found unresponsive in a shed on the property of his grandmother Kellie Smith in the 2400 block of Western Way in Carlsbad.

Alexis Murray Smith attends her child abuse trial, Sept. 13, 2023 in Eddy County District Court.

More: 'She knew he was using,' state says as trial begins for mother of boy who died of overdose

The grandmother received identical charges to Murray Smiths for her alleged involvement in Sullivans death, and for exposing his infant sister to drugs in the home, with that trial starting Nov. 6.

On the second day of Murray Smiths trial, the jurors heard from multiple law enforcement witnesses testifying to the state of the home, evidence found at the scene, including multiple illegal drugs, and the state of Sullivans body when he was taken to Carlsbad Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased.

Smiths boyfriend, who said he found the boy overdosing that day, also took the stand to describe the events leading up to the death.

More: Child abuse trial from Brent Sullivan's deadly overdose starts Monday. Here's what to know.

Heres what happened on the second day of the trial.

Lawyers clash over photos of deceased Sullivans face and body

Defense Attorney Todd Holmes objected to the use of photos of Sullivans face taken after he was pronounced dead at Carlsbad Medical Center, in an apparent effort to mitigate the emotional impact of the evidence on the jury.

He said showing the photos would unfairly prejudice the jury against his client.

The parties agreed to exclude some of the photos, but pictures of Sullivans face, hands, arms and back where blood pooled as he lay, overdosed, in the shed were admitted by the court.

More: Fentanyl, meth trafficking investigation in Eddy County leads to arrests

Seeing this picture, all you can conclude is that this is horrible. This is sad, Holmes said of the photo of Sullivans face during the proceedings. They want to get this in for the jury to get all that emotion. Theres no relevance.

Assistant District Attorney Megan Kirtley responded that the pictures were needed to identify Sullivan and show the impacts of the alleged abuse.

Its always sad when someone dies. Its always sad to see a deceased person, she said. This is an identifying photo and shows all of the things he had to go through. He was abused, he was put in this situation.

More: NM senator cosponsors legislation targeting fentanyl supply chain

Jury hears from man who found Brent Sullivan overdosing in shed

Michael Ortiz took the stand Wednesday afternoon, describing how he found Sullivan unconscious in a backyard shed at the property on the day the boy died.

He began sobbing during his testimony, recounting the traumatic experience of finding the 12-year-old overdosing, and attempting to revive him.

Michael Ortiz testifies during the child abuse trial of Alexis Murray Smith, Sept. 13, 2023 in Eddy County District Court.

More: Carlsbad man found not guilty of murder in 2021 shooting after four-day jury trial

I saw the boy lying there. I started yelling for help, he said to the jury. I was in shock. I was freaking out. He was not answering me. Brent was like my son. I loved him very much.

Ortiz, an admitted user of methamphetamine, said he was in a relationship with Kellie Smith, Sullivans grandmother, for about seven years. He said he worked as a security guard in Orla, Texas, working up to 21-hour shifts and using meth to keep himself awake.

More: Bandidos raids in New Mexico stem from 'all-out war' between motorcycle clubs, police say

On the day of Sullivans death, Ortiz said he returned to Carlsbad at about 10 a.m., visiting his mother and getting a call from Smith that the baby was crying, and she was out of cigarettes.

He went to a nearby store to buy the cigarettes and a coke, then headed to Smiths house on Western Way.

Sullivan was nowhere around, Ortiz said when he got to the house. He said he went to the backyard to look for the boy, finding him unresponsive in the shed after forcing the door open.

More: 'Relentless pursuit' touted as law enforcement announces arrests in Eddy County drug busts

Ortiz said he noticed evidence of drug use and a blue pill on a pool table in the shed near Sullivans body, a pill law enforcement previously testified was fentanyl.

There was drugs on the pool table. I was concerned for his well-being, Ortiz said. I just assumed he was messing with that stuff. Ive heard a lot about those blue pills. Those blue pills are very dangerous.

District Judge Lisa Riley put the trial in recess for the night during Ortizs testimony to allow the defense to review caselaw cited by the prosecution regarding the use of past testimony.

More: Carlsbad and Eddy County to split opioid settlement funds

Scientists say death was an accident, explain process to identify drugs

Daniel Gallego, a forensic pathologist with the Office of the Medical Investigator (OMI) testified for the jury that Sullivan died of toxicity from both fentanyl and methamphetamine, and that his death was ruled accidental after reviewing the autopsy report.

Gallego said signs of Narcan, a drug used to counteract a fentanyl overdose, were also found in Sullivans body, indicating the chemical was recently used before he died.

Gallego described how fentanyl slows the body down, causing the lungs to stop breathing and the nervous system to go into a coma, while meth speeds up the heart to the point of arrhythmia and can cause seizures in the brain.

More: Carlsbad man wanted for trafficking fentanyl

Taken together, he said, the drugs can prove especially dangerous as people take more of each to counteract the effects.

Holmes asked Gallego to reiterate that the death was ruled an accident.

Former Carlsbad Police Detective Patricia Lopez, now chief of the Tucumcari Police Department also testified, along with local OMI field inspector Rick Wiedenmann as the two initially examined Sullivans body at Carlsbad Medical Center.

Tucumcari Police Chief Patricia Lopez testifies during the child abuse trial of Alexis Murray Smith, Sept. 13, 2023 in Eddy County District Court.

More: Trial delayed for Alexis Murray, mother of Brent Sullivan who died of fentanyl overdose

Weidenmann said there were no obvious signs of trauma on the boys body.

The prosecution also called Sarah Salameh, a forensic scientist with New Mexico Department of Public Safetys Hobbs laboratory to talk about the evidence she tested for the presence of illegal drugs.

She explained her process of receiving and cataloguing evidence and confirmed that multiple samples taken from the home where Sullivan died were positive for fentanyl and meth.

Sarah Salameh, forensic scientist with the New Mexico Department of Public Safety testifies at the child abuse trial of Alexis Murray Smith, Sept. 13, 2023 in Eddy County District Court.

Evidence technician discusses numerous drugs, paraphernalia found in residence

Carlsbad Police Department evidence technician Trey Thompson continued his testimony that began Tuesday, proceeding through photos he took at the scene and bags of evidence collected during the investigation.

He noted several bags of a variety of drugs including fentanyl, methamphetamine, cannabis and psychoactive mushrooms or shrooms found at the house and in multiple vehicles searched that were on the property.

Pieces of burned tin foil, indicative of fentanyl being smoked, littered the shed, Thompson said, and a box of foil was found in one of the bedrooms of the house.

You dont usually see foil in someones bedroom, Thompson said.

Holmes sought to cast doubt on the photographic evidence, pointing out a piece of burned tinfoil appeared in a different position on the pool table in two of the photos entered in evidence.

We would unravel it to see if its been used or if its storing drugs, Thompson explained.

Holmes asked if any of the evidence Thompson collected or photographed tied the incident to his client directly.

Thompson said it did not.

Whats next?

The prosecution will continue questioning Ortiz about the day of Sullivans death, after reviewing caselaw that could allow them to ask about his previous testimony without providing said testimony for prior review.

Once the prosecution finishes calling its witnesses, and the defense is allowed to question each of them, the defense will then be allowed to call any additional witnesses to take the stand.

Still on the witness list is Kellie Smith who lived at the house where Sullivan died. She is the mother of the defendant Alexis Murray Smith and grandmother of Sullivan and is also facing charges tied to his death.

After the both sides are done making their case, the 12-person jury will issue a verdict likely by Friday.

Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.

This article originally appeared on Carlsbad Current-Argus: Man who found Brent Sullivan dead testifies at mother's abuse trial
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Ezekiel Kelly, the Memphis man accused of going on a shooting spree last year, was back in front of a judge Thursday morning alongside his newly appointed attorneys.

Kelly is accused of a carjacking and going on a shooting rampage last September that killed three people, injured three others, and put Memphis on lockdown. Parts of the shooting spree were reportedly live-streamed on social media.

Kelly said very little in court. In fact, the only words uttered were a return greeting to Judge James Jones Jr. Michael Scholl, one of Kellys new attorneys, spoke on behalf of his client.

The 20-year-old faces 26 felony charges that could land him on death row if found guilty.

Ezekiel Kelly: Complete case coverage

The most serious is first-degree murder, Scholl said.

Scholl and attorney Anne Tipton were recently appointed following a conflict in the public defenders office.

The judge called and asked if we would consider taking the appointment and if Ms. Tipton would consider taking the appointment, and we do a lot of these cases and have done a lot in the past, so thats why I believe we were asked, Scholl said.

It deals with, I believe, seven crime scenes judge. So it will take some time, Scholl said.

READ: It could be years before Ezekiel Kelly case goes to trial

The judge granted the legal team more time.

Ezekiel Kelly was escorted out the courtroom while his lawyers are now working to sort out how to save the life of a man facing capital punishment.

With people that are accused and facing the death penalty, I think its very important they get an extremely good defense, and thats what we are going to give him, Scholl said.

His new attorneys, who have been on this case for less than a month, said they are still going through lengthy files.

There are still a lot of questions, but we could learn much more when Ezekiel Kelly goes back before the judge November 7.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
The grieving parents of a newborn decapitated during delivery say they are still being traumatized by the handling of the childs death.

Initially, the Georgia couple was upset with the hospital staff and the doctor who facilitated the botched birthing procedure. Now, they have concerns about the doctor they hired independently to perform an autopsy on their baby.

According to a lawsuit filed on Sept. 1 in Fulton County, the physician in question posted videos from the private autopsy of the infant on social media. Jessica Ross and Treveon Isaiah Taylor Sr., from Clayton County, are now suing Dr. Jackson L. Gates, alleging that he caused them mental and emotional pain and suffering by sharing unauthorized images of their childs deceased and decapitated body on Instagram.

Jessica Ross and Treveon Taylor have filed a lawsuit against the doctor, Southern Regional Medical Center, several nurses and the medical group who delivered their decapitated baby on July 9, 2023. (Photo: Courtesy of Family)

The complaint says Ross and Taylor both experienced feelings of shock, anger, humiliation, and outrage after seeing the Instagram post that was published by the doctor on July 14 and on July 21.

Related: Disturbing Video Shows School Employee Knocking Autistic 3-Year-Old to the Floor, Carrying Him Upside Down; Outraged Parents Demand Charges: Should Have LeftIn Handcuffs

It also said the two had salt poured into their unfathomable emotional wounds when Gates posted the images.

Dr. Jackson Gates attempted to exploit our clients horrific loss to boost his own social media profile, without permission of the family, the lawyers representing the couple said in the statement, according to Newsweek.

The videos posted of the child, named Treveon Isaiah Taylor Jr., were from the postmortem examination of the baby. The lawsuit says Gates never received permission from the parents to video-record the examination.

The clips are said to have shown the examination in graphic and grisly detail. The complaint says that Gates removed the July 14 video, but a week later, posted two different videos on Instagram from the examination.

Cory Lynch, the lawyer for the couple, notes that between now and the first post, Gates Instagram page gained almost 3,000 followers. On July 14, he had 8,346, and now is circulating around 11,000.

The attorney also names Gates Rapid Diagnostic Laboratory of Atlanta, doing business as Medical Diagnostic Choices, in the lawsuit as defendants.

Ross and Taylors nightmare started on July 9, when Ross water broke, and she was rushed to Southern Regional Medical Center to give birth to her son.

The pregnancy was complicated by her Type 2 diabetes and her stature, standing at 4 feet 9 inches and weighing 200 pounds.

The initial lawsuit names Dr. Tracey L. St. Julian, along with six other Prime Healthcare Services/Southern Regional Medical Center doctors in metro Atlanta.

Ross attempted a natural birth for several hours, but the baby stopped progressing through the birth canal.

Dr. St. Julian noticed Ross was in crisis and attempted various methods, including applying forceful traction on the babys head, which would prove to be fatal. Several hours later, a STAT Cesarean section was initiated but wasnt completed until approximately 3 a.m. the following day.

When the child was finally delivered, only his legs and body were delivered surgically, while the head was delivered vaginally.

When Ms. Ross and Mr. Taylor demanded to see and hold their baby, hospital staff told them that they were not allowed to touch or hold their child, a statement from attorneys for the couple says. Hospital staff allowed the young couple to only view their dead child. During this viewing, their baby was wrapped tightly in a blanket with his head propped on top of his body in a manner such that those viewing him could not identify that he had been decapitated.

Additionally, it is claimed that the hospital didnt notify the Clayton County Medical Examiners Office until three days after the babys tragic death.

Clayton County police are still investigating the case.

Regarding the two lawsuits, the couple is seeking a jury trial and unspecified monetary damages.

Read the full story on Atlanta Black Star.
The list of Idaho Republicans lining up in favor of open primaries just got a lot longer  and a lot more prominent.

Former Idaho Gov. Butch Otter and his wife, Lori Otter, have thrown their support behind a proposed ballot initiative that would allow Idaho voters to decide whether the state has open primary elections. Currently, the Idaho Republican Party has a closed primary, meaning only registered Republicans may participate.

The Otters were the featured attraction at a press conference Wednesday at which the group Open Primaries for Idaho declared support from 116 Republicans, including some big names  former House Speaker Bruce Newcomb, former Sen. and Lt. Gov. Jack Riggs and former Rep. Maxine Bell among them.

In addition to creating an open primary, open to all candidates regardless of party, the initiative would also create a top four primary election, in which the top four vote-getters advance to the general election.

Once in the general election, voters would rank candidates in their preferred order, according to previous Statesman reporting. A few other states have this same ranked-choice system.

A candidate who collects more than 50% of first-place votes wins the election. But if no candidate reaches that threshold, a runoff count is triggered. The candidate with the fewest first-place votes is eliminated, and their votes are reallocated to the candidate listed second. That process repeats until a candidate surpasses 50%.

We wont weigh in yet on whether to support the initiative. Well save that for if and when it gets on the ballot in November 2024.

But we do recommend that you sign the petition to get it on the ballot. That way, Idaho voters can decide for themselves whether its a good idea or not.

Closed primaries, initiative supporters argue, allow extremist candidates to win races with tiny percentages of voters.

They cite recent losses by Sens. Jim Woodward, Jim Patrick, Jeff Agenbroad and Carl Crabtree, and Reps. Scott Syme, Jim Addis, Greg Chaney and Paul Amador, noting that far-right candidates won their seats with votes from less than 10% of registered voters in their district.

In addition, they argue, closing the Republican primary  which nearly always decides the eventual officeholder in heavily conservative Idaho  disenfranchises hundreds of thousands of unaffiliated voters.

The most recent voter registration numbers show 272,000 unaffiliated voters in Idaho  or 27% of the total.

Opening the primaries, supporters argue, would allow those unaffiliated voters to have a say in the primary election.

Supporters also argue that opening the primary would lead to more civility, as broadening the base of potential voters would weed out extremist, pugilistic candidates and temper messages that would need to appeal to a wider range of voters.

These are compelling arguments in a state thats seen a hijacking of the Republican Party by the far right, and the resulting election of some of these candidates through the closed primary system.

Make no mistake: This is a problem within the Idaho Republican Party, which has been taken over by extremists.

Certainly, the so-called traditional Republicans, represented by the Otters and others on the list of open primary supporters, could solve the problem simply by taking back their party from the fringe.

Barring that, though, the open primaries initiative just might be the next best solution.

At the very least, its worth considering, so its worth putting on the ballot.

Statesman editorials are the unsigned opinion of the Idaho Statesmans editorial board. Board members are opinion editor Scott McIntosh, opinion writer Bryan Clark, editor Chadd Cripe, newsroom editors Dana Oland and Jim Keyser and community members Mary Rohlfing and Patricia Nilsson.
[Source]

Former Miss Ireland Emma Waldron and Silicon Valley tech guru Andrew Chen were recently married in Moab, Utah.

Picturesque ceremony: The couple held an intimate wedding earlier this month with Arches National Park as their backdrop. The special affair was attended by immediate family members.

Chen, a partner at venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz, shared a clip of the event on social media, writing, "Big news! @EmmaBWaldron and I are married." He went on to describe their memorable ceremony and mentioned that their honeymoon will be in Japan.

Waldron also took to social media to share their journey from engagement to marriage in less than two months.

weve been keeping a little secret were getting married  pic.twitter.com/1rrb6DZ7d1  Emma Waldron Chen (@EmmaBWaldron) July 20, 2023

How they met: Waldron finished in fourth place at the Miss World pageant in 2010 before relocating to the U.S., where she would eventually cross paths with her now-husband in Austin. Waldron, who announced their engagement in July, is the founder of WiLDE, an online content platform reportedly backed by billionaire entrepreneurs such as former Apple CEO John Sculley.

Reactions: Many of the couple's friends and social media followers flooded their social media posts with congratulatory messages.

"What a beautiful venue!! Congratulations married couple," one Instagram user wrote.

"Big congrats! Didnt know such scenery was available for a wedding," another user chimed in.
MANILA, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines will resume exporting fresh Hass avocados to South Korea later this month, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said Thursday.

Agriculture Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban said the commercial shipment will start by the end of September after Seoul approved the market access for Philippine-grown Hass avocados.

Hass avocadoes have become popular globally as the main nutritional ingredient for salad and sandwiches. To familiarize the Koreans with Philippine-grown avocados, the Philippine government will support promotional activities to increase awareness of consumers and boost exports.

According to official data, the Philippines supplies 75 percent of fresh bananas, 100 percent of fresh pineapples and papayas, and is the sole exporter of fresh okra to South Korea. In 2022, South Korea was the fourth-largest destination of Philippine agri-food exports, with 574.27 million U.S. dollars in agri-fisheries export value. 
A six-year-old boy has been killed and four people injured in a Russian artillery attack in Kherson Oblast, Ukraines Prosecutor Generals Office reported on Sept. 14.

Read also: The school bell will never ring again for over 500 Ukrainian children killed by Russia

"The six-year-old boy suffered catastrophic fatal injuries, and his 13-year-old brother was seriously wounded when Russian shells hit a private house and the surrounding area in the village of Novodmytrivka," the prosecutors office said.

Kherson Oblast Prosecutor's Office

"Three neighbors were also injured as they tried to help but came under Russian fire. Several private houses and outbuildings were also damaged."

Kherson Oblast Prosecutor's Office

The Prosecutor's General Office has opened an investigation into the violation of the laws and customs of war in connection with premeditated murder.

Kherson Oblast Prosecutor's Office

At least 503 children have been killed in Ukraine and 1,122 have been injured since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion.

Read also: US decision to provide ICC with Russian war crimes evidence is historic, says prosecutor general

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
On 14 September, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Slovakia adopted a decision to remove an employee of the Russian embassy due to a "gross violation" of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

Source: European Pravda with reference to the statement of Slovakias Foreign Ministry

Details: The Foreign Ministry of Slovakia states that the actions of the employee of the Russian embassy were "a gross violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which was thoroughly documented by competent bodies of the Slovak Republic."

Slovakia does not specify what the violation was but usually it is spying activity under diplomatic cover.

A Russian "diplomat" declared a persona non grata must leave the territory of Slovakia within 48 hours.

Slovakias Foreign Ministry has also called the Russian ambassador and "strongly urged" him to adhere to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, as well as to "refrain from further activity, which contradicts this Convention".

Background:

Last time Slovakia removed employees of the Russian embassy was in March 2022, soon after the beginning of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Then the three "diplomats" were declared persona non grata on suspicion of spying.

In response, Russia also removed three employees of the Slovak embassy.

In total, the European countries have removed several hundreds of Russians, who were conducting spying activity under diplomatic cover, during the last six months.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
South Asian lawmakers are blasting Seattle police after body-cam footage released this week revealed an officer mocking the death of a young Indian woman who was hit by a speeding cop car.

Jaahnavi Kandula was crossing the street on Jan. 23 when police officer Kevin Dave fatally struck her with his police cruiser. Dave was driving 74 mph while on his way to an overdose call, according to The Seattle Times. Kandula was thrown over 100 feet and died later that night.

Daniel Auderer, a drug-recognition officer who serves as vice president of the Seattle police union, was responding to the crash to check on whether Dave was under the influence. After concluding Dave was not impaired, Auderer called police union president Mike Solan, a conversation that was captured on Auderers body camera.

In the audio released by the police department on Monday, Auderer is heard laughing after telling Solan that 23-year-old Kandula was dead. He also dismissed the idea that Dave was at fault in the incident and claimed a criminal investigation was unnecessary.

No, its a regular person, Auderer said of Kandula, laughing and telling Solan to just write a check for $11,000.

She was 26 anyway, he continued, misstating her age. She had limited value.

Auderer then turned off his body camera. Its unclear what Solan said during the conversation, as the cameras audio only captured Auderers side of the exchange.

Democratic Rep. Pramila Jayapal, whose congressional district includes Seattle, called the incident appalling.

The Progressive Caucus chair tweeted, I hope to see justice for Jaahnavi Kandulas family and accountability for those involved.

The Seattle Office of Police Accountability, a watchdog agency, has opened an investigation into Auderers comments.

Conservative talk radio host Jason Rantz said he obtained a written statement that Auderer gave to the accountability office. In the statement, Auderer said that his comments were intended to mimic how attorneys may approach the incident. After realizing he had recorded his remarks, the officer reported himself to the accountability office.

According to the police department, the body camera footage was identified in the routine course of business by a department employee, who, concerned about the nature of statements heard on that video, appropriately escalated their concerns through their chain of command.

Police Chief Adrian Diaz referred the matter to the accountability office. The offices director told The Seattle Times that the agency launched the investigation after receiving an email from a police department attorney in early August.

The King County Prosecuting Attorneys Office is conducting a criminal review of the deadly crash separately.

SPD has been in touch with the family of the victim pedestrian and continues to honor their expressed request for privacy, the department said in a statement on Monday. As others in the accountability system proceed with their work, we again extend our deepest sympathy for this tragic collision.

A Seattle Police Department vehicle sits parked at Hing Hay Park in the heart of Seattle's Chinatown-International District, March 18, 2021. A police watchdog agency is investigating a Seattle officer after he was caught on audio mocking the January 2023 death of a young woman who was hit by a speeding police cruiser.

A Seattle Police Department vehicle sits parked at Hing Hay Park in the heart of Seattle's Chinatown-International District, March 18, 2021. A police watchdog agency is investigating a Seattle officer after he was caught on audio mocking the January 2023 death of a young woman who was hit by a speeding police cruiser.

Kandula was expected to graduate in December with a masters degree in information systems from Northeastern Universitys campus in Seattle. According to her family, she was working toward supporting her single mother in India.

Ashok Mandula, the young womans uncle in Houston, now has to arrange to send his nieces body to her mother.

The family has nothing to say, Mandula told the Times. Except I wonder if these mens daughters or granddaughters have value. A life is a life.

Northeastern University Chancellor Ken Henderson sent an email to staff and students on Thursday saying the school plans to award Kandula her degree posthumously and present it to her family.

Henderson recalled a vigil held at the university soon after Kandulas death, with Dean Dave Thurman saying at the time that many on campus loved her bubbly laugh, sense of humor and infectious personality.

Callous and insensitive remarks by a Seattle police officer have become public, reopening wounds and deepening our collective heartbreak, Henderson wrote.

We also recognize that our Indian student community  across all Northeastern campuses  has been especially impacted by this tragedy and its aftermath. We stand in solidarity with you and have every expectation that the ongoing investigations will bring a measure of justice and accountability.

Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna, a South Asian lawmaker from California, ripped Seattle police for Kandulas death and the officers comments.

Jaahnavi Kandula came here for graduate work from India. She was killed on a crosswalk by a speeding police car, & Officer Auderer said her life had limited value, Khanna tweeted on Wednesday night.

I thought of my Dad who came here in his 20s. Mr. Auderer, the life of every Indian immigrant has infinite value, he continued. Anyone who thinks that a human life has limited value should not be serving in law enforcement.

Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, a Democrat from Illinois, said that Auderers comments about the value of Kandulas life were disgusting and unacceptable.

Jaahnavi Kandulas death was a horrible tragedy, and the scale of her loss should not be diminished or mocked by anyone, Krishnamoorthi told HuffPost. I urge the Seattle Police Department to pursue its investigation into this matter with the seriousness it demands.

Related...
A South Carolina man has been convicted of killing a worker at the Speedway gas station on Amboy Avenue in Edison in 2018.

Marcus A. Wright, 27, was found guilty Tuesday of murder, felony murder, and armed robbery, all first-degree crimes, as well as conspiracy to commit armed robbery, unlawful possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone said.

Wright is facing life in prison when he is sentenced Nov. 1 by Middlesex County Superior Court Judge Andrea Carter.

Wright shot John Bertram during a Dec. 20, 2018, armed robbery. Bertram, 38, of the Fords section of Woodbridge, who had a learning disability, was working the night shift as a convenience store clerk at the gas station for about four months to help pay for the taxes on the home he inherited from his late father.

Bertram was shot before dawn by a masked robber after handing over the cash register drawer at the Speedway in the Clara Barton section of Edison. Bertram was pronounced dead at the scene at 4:15 a.m.

Marcus A. Wright shot John Bertram during a Dec. 20, 2018, armed robbery.

Middlesex County Assistant Prosecutors Lynne Seborowski and Caitlin Lavery presented the case. The investigation was led by Middlesex County Prosecutors Office Lt. David Abromaitis and Edison Lt. Loren Long.

The shooter, whose image was captured on the gas station surveillance cameras, was initially described as a man with a slight build wearing light-colored pants, a maroon-colored hooded sweatshirt, mask and gloves.

The investigation found Wright and an accomplice, Olya Quinnam, of Beaufort, South Carolina, were involved in the crime. Quinnam waited outside while Wright entered the convenience store and held up Bertram with a handgun.

On Jan. 3, 2019, Wright was arrested in South Carolina.

Quinnam pleaded guilty in 2019 to one count of first-degree armed robbery and faces 15 years in state prison.

More: Edison gas station murder victim remembered as 'extremely loyal'

CBS New York reported Quinnam, now 26, testified during Wright's trial that the two were friends who met through Facebook and that she borrowed her boyfriend's car to move her sister to Long Island and Wright came along. They stopped at the Edison gas station on their way home where Wright went into the convenience store while she stayed in the car.

When Wright returned to the vehicle, wearing a sweatshirt and mask, he told her to drive. After learning about the robbery through news reports, she left Wright at a rest stop and drove home, according to CBS.

John Bertram was fatally shot during a robbery at the Speedway gas station in Edison in 2018.

Wright and Quinnam were named as "persons of interest" in a Dec. 19, 2018, 7-Eleven robbery on Long Island, according to the Suffolk County Police Department.

The Edison murder and robbery isn't Wright's only criminal offense. In 2019 Wright also was charged with the murder of his cellmate at Lieber Correctional Institute in Dorchester County, according to the South Carolina Department of Corrections.

The South Carolina affidavit indicates Wright and his cellmate Matthew Williams, 31, were locked in their cell on Sept. 13, 2019, when they became involved in a fight. Wright allegedly used a personal weapon to cause severe injuries to Williams head and face which resulted in his death. A pathology report indicated Williams died from blunt force trauma to the head.

Wright had previously twice served time in the South Carolina Department of Corrections for burglary.

Email: srussell@gannettnj.com

Suzanne Russell is a breaking news reporter for MyCentralJersey.com covering crime, courts and other mayhem. To get unlimited access, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Edison NJ Speedway gas station murder: South Carolina man found guilty
South Korea states that Russia has long been using weapons from North Korea in its war with Ukraine.

Source: Yonhap News Agency citing a senior representative of the presidential administration

Details: The official said it is too early to assess the results of Kim Jong Un 's meeting with Vladimir Putin , as Kim's trip to Russia is still ongoing.

When asked if North Korean artillery shells were provided to Russia, he replied that such weapons had already been noticed during the battles in Ukraine.

Quote: "It's hard to talk about because this is an intelligence matter. But we have long confirmed that [these] kinds of weapons provided by North Korea were used by Russia in the Ukraine battlefield."

Details: At the same time, Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraines Defence Intelligence, said that Russia has been receiving ammunition from North Korea for a month and a half.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
YORK COUNTY, Maine  Coastal communities in southern Maine are preparing and bracing for the expected effects of Hurricane Lee this weekend.

Ogunquit Harbormaster Erin Gatt was at Perkins Cove on Thursday, working with others to slip storm lines through the sterns and bows of boats floating in the water.

According to Gatt, such a spider web of ropes is needed in a tiny, tight harbor like Perkins Cove because boats do not attach to single moors with enough room to slosh about if the water turns rough.

The ropes take a lot of the pressure, Gatt said.

This Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, 7:51 a.m. satellite image provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows Hurricane Lee in the Atlantic Ocean. Lee looks poised to wallop New England later this week even as the region still deals with the impact of days of wild weather that produced torrential rain, flooding, sinkholes and a likely tornado.

Connecting boats with storm lines is a standard practice in the wintertime and is mandatory whenever winds climb to roughly more than 35 mph at any time, Gatt said. But he added that he and boat owners do not usually find themselves with such a task in September, however.

Its rare for this time of year, he said. Were expecting the worst and hoping for the best.

Lee, classified as a Category 2 storm on Thursday, is expected to weaken enough to arrive as a tropical storm once it hits land on Friday going into Saturday, according to the National Weather Service in Gray.

Tropical storm-force winds, coastal flooding, and high surf are among the potential impacts Lee could have on the region.

Previous story: Boaters advised to haul their vessels out of the water

Hurricane Lee's latest forecast and what Mainers should expect

The National Weather Service is forecasting Kennebunk and surrounding communities are seeing a 50% chance of showers late Friday night, with winds potentially between 10 and 20 mph, and gusts as strong as 35 mph.

On Saturday, more showers and winds between 30 and 45 mph are predicted, according to the weather service. Wet and windy is the forecast for the evening, too.

A man takes a dip in the Atlantic Ocean at Ogunquit Beach on Thursday, Sept. 15.

Lee is expected to leave the scene overnight. The weather service is predicting that residents can look forward to sunshine and temps in the 70s on Sunday.

In Kennebunkport, the town announced that the Public Works Department would be placing large rocks at the foot-path entrances at Goose Rocks Beach to help mitigate the potential storm damage and clean-up.

This will be a temporary measure and will be moved as soon as appropriate, the town said.

The town temporarily opened its newly acquired public boat launch on Langsford Road to allow people to take their boats out of the water, ahead of the storm and without the need for a reservation.

The National Weather Service has issued a tropical storm advisory for the Seacoast New Hampshire and southern Maine region for later this week as Hurricane Lee, currently around Bermuda, approaches northern New England.

The town will reinstate its online reservation service at KPortBoat.com after the storm passes.

On its website, the town of Kennebunk alerted residents that public service employees are in the process of removing portable trash cans and toilets, benches, stairs, ramps and more from all beaches.

Similarly, the town of Wells issued an early advisory on its website, informing residents that efforts were underway to secure such coastline items as trash, receptacles, portable restrooms, and lifeguard stations. The town also is placing barricades throughout the community, in case road closures become necessary.

Lee is expected to arrive less than a year since the last time the weather truly battered the region and created flooding and damages. A storm swept the area on Dec. 23, 2022, flooding and damaging the region from the seawall at St. Anns Episcopal Church on Ocean Avenue in Kennebunkport to Perkins Cove, with its shops and restaurants, in Ogunquit. In Wells, a police officer needed to assist a woman who was on the Mile Road while it was underwater.

Hurricane Lee path tracker: New Hampshire could see tropical storm-force winds

Should you expect power outages in Maine?

On Wednesday, Gov. Janet Mills and the Maine Emergency Management Agency urged people to prepare for the storm in advance. MEMA has been monitoring Lees path and progress and has been coordinating with local, state and federal officials, as well as Maines utility companies.

Central Maine Power (CMP) this week raised concerns about the health of trees following this summers frequent and heavy rainfall. Such consistent wet weather has increased soil saturation, flooding, and nutrient runoff that has led to weakened or rotted roots, according to Mills and MEMA.

Beachgoers flocked to Ogunquit Beach on Thursday, Sept. 15.

CMP said that Maine could see worsened impacts to the power grid because of trees falling or losing limbs.

We urge Maine people to exercise caution and to take common-sense steps to ensure they have all they need to stay safe as the storm draws closer moving into the weekend, Mills said.

Lee is poised to hit Maine smack dab in the center of the Atlantic Oceans typical hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through Nov. 30.

In Maine, hurricanes don't happen often

Maine does not get many hurricanes, according to MEMA, but they do happen here in Vacationland and can be impactful when they strike. History records Hurricanes Carol and Edna in 1954, Hurricane Donna in 1960, Hurricane Gloria in 1985, and Hurricane Bob in 1991 as storms of consequence in the state.

Warm ocean waters, moisture in the atmosphere, and light winds aloft are the recipe for tropical storm events, according to MEMA. An average, 10 tropical storms develop over the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico each year.

In her press release, Mills encouraged Mainers to get familiar with the Hurricane Evacuation Dashboard on MEMAs homepage. For timely information about safety and preparedness, find MEMA on Facebook or Twitter or visit www.Maine.gov/MEMA.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Hurricane Lee's path: Southern Maine coast expects rain, wind
NATIONAL HARBOR, Md.  The Space Force hopes a new model that combines operations, maintenance and acquisition in a single unit will bring more flexibility and efficiency to its daily missions.

Two of those units, known as integrated mission deltas, will stand up as early as October to provide world-class effects in the face of a determined adversary, Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman said here Tuesday.

Its among the latest examples of how the youngest branch of the U.S. armed forces is trying to improve its combat prowess and quality of life by eschewing traditional military practices.

As weve evolved from our historical origins in Air Force Space Command to the U.S. Space Force, it was an opportunity to relook at the kinds of organizational structures that we thought would be most effective for the new challenges associated with a contested space domain, Saltzman told reporters at the Air and Space Forces Associations annual Air, Space and Cyber Conference.

Typically, operations, sustainment, training and other facets of a squadrons readiness are managed by different commands with specialized expertise. But fragmenting those roles can make it more difficult for each organization to understand the larger picture, and it can slow any needed improvements.

The Space Force believes that the colonels who run deltas  the services equivalent of Air Force wings or Army battalions  rank high enough to holistically manage readiness without losing touch with the realities of daily operations.

One new delta will support the Space Forces electromagnetic warfare mission, while the other focuses on the positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) enterprise  missions that could yield quick, actionable results for troops at home and abroad.

Because space electronic warfare units deploy overseas, Saltzman said an integrated mission delta can streamline the process of moving them around the world.

Sometimes its very simple. A deployable counter-[communications] system goes out the door with a generator. Does that generator work? Saltzman said. Its going to get to an austere location and its going to have to have power.  We have to make sure that all the antennas have the right cabling [and] that the cabling is healthy before it goes out. Then, when its in the field, youve got to continue to do the maintenance.

The PNT delta will focus on ensuring maintainers and contracting staff are on the same page as systems age and new combat requirements arise.

Including an acquisition element in the integrated mission deltas can also allow guardians to quickly develop new hardware and apps they need to adapt to emerging threats.

Saltzman said the experiment will show the Space Force whether deltas can have their own acquisition cell without disrupting larger, longer-term programs underway at Space Systems Command, the services development hub.

Other efforts to grow the military space enterprise are underway as well.

The Air National Guard is standing up two new military space units in Hawaii, including one to protect U.S. communications satellites and other space systems and another to infiltrate and confuse enemy networks.

And the Space Force in December aims to open a new subordinate headquarters in Europe to manage space operations across the continent. Those service component offices act as a voice for space missions in daily operations, ensuring the Space Force provides the right communications, missile warning and other services for troops in the region.

Space Force components are already working with the joint force at U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, U.S. Central Command and U.S. Forces Korea. That has created more realistic and helpful training exercises and built relationships between units, Saltzman said.

They are talking with the same vocabulary, the same understanding of the missions, the same understanding of the people and the capabilities and its a much tighter integration, he said.
Update: SpaceX has stood down from its plan to launch a Falcon 9 rocket with 22 Starlink internet satellites overnight from Launch Complex 40 at at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Instead, liftoff of the Starlink 6-16 mission is now targeted for 11:38 p.m. EDT Friday, Sept. 15. SpaceX officials did not cite a reason why the launch was postponed  but in a Thursday post on X (formerly Twitter), the company said: "teams are keeping an eye on Hurricane Lee in the Atlantic Ocean, which could impact conditions for recovery operations."

SpaceX teams at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station are on track to launch a Falcon 9 rocket with 22 Starlink internet satellites overnight from Launch Complex 40.

Liftoff of the Starlink 6-16 mission is targeted for 11:38 p.m. EDT Friday, Sept. 15. But SpaceX said in a post on X, "Teams are keeping an eye on Hurricane Lee in the Atlantic Ocean, which could impact conditions for recovery operations."

SpaceX Starlink 6-16 liftoff

Next SpaceX launch: What to know about Starlink 6-16

Liftoff of the 230-foot Falcon 9 rocket is tentatively set for 11:38 p.m. EDT on Friday. Packed in Falcon 9's payload fairing is 22 Starlink internet satellites.

If needed, there is one additional launch opportunity at 12:07 a.m. EDT Saturday.

After a jaunt along a southeastern trajectory, about eight minutes after liftoff, the Falcon 9 first stage booster is set to target a drone ship landing out at sea.

Forecasters with the Space Force's 45th Weather Squadron last reported a 45% chance of "go" conditions around the spaceport during the launch window. Recovery conditions for the drone ship landing were listed as "moderate risk."

If schedules hold, this would become the Space Coast's 49th launch this year.

What is the weather outlook for the next SpaceX launch:

A weather report on Wednesday from the Space Force's 45th Weather Squadron pegs conditions at 45% "go" for launch. Recovery conditions for the booster landing aboard the drone ship at sea were listed as "moderate risk."

"Isolated to scattered showers and storms will again concentrate across interior Florida in the afternoon. With an upper-level push, the trough will begin to sink toward the southeast Thursday as front itself noses into North Florida Thursday evening," the squadron's forecast said.

For Thursday, the National Weather Service forecast calls for a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 11 p.m. around the spaceport. Partly cloudy conditions should otherwise prevail, with a low around 75 and north-northeast wind around 5 mph.

As SpaceX teams prepare for another launch from the Cape, Hurricane Lee continues churning far off Florida's coastline as a sprawling Category 3 hurricane, which could be problematic for the drone ship awaiting a booster landing attempt off the coast of the Bahamas.

Here's everything else you need to know:

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Launch Complex 40 will host.

The payload is the company's next batch of Starlink internet-beaming satellites.

The 230-foot Falcon 9 rocket will follow a southeasterly trajectory threading between Florida and the Bahamas.

Federal watchdog: NASA's SLS rocket is unaffordable and the agency agrees

Rocket launch schedule: Upcoming Florida launches and landings

If it launches on time, it will mark the Space Coast's 49th launch this year.

No local sonic booms with this mission.

The 130-foot first-stage booster will target a drone ship landing about eight minutes after liftoff.

This will mark the fifth flight for this particular first stage booster.

When's the next launch from Florida's Space Coast?

More SpaceX Starlink missions are expected to be launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station next week, but the company hasn't yet announced when the next mission is targeted to liftoff. For the latest schedule updates, visit floridatoday.com/launchschedule.

Rick Neale is the South Brevard Watchdog Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY (for more of his stories, click here.) Contact Neale at 321-242-3638 or rneale@floridatoday.com. Twitter/X: @RickNeale1

Contact Jamie Groh at JGroh@floridatoday.com and follow her on X at @AlteredJamie.

Space is important to us and that's why we're working to bring you top coverage of the industry and Florida launches. Journalism like this takes time and resources. Please support it with a subscription here.

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: SpaceX reschedules Starlink Cape Canaveral liftoff to Friday night
BlackSky imagery captured the damage caused by a Ukrainian cruise missile attack on the Sevastopol Shipyard dry docks in Russia occupied Crimea on September 13, 2023. Courtesy of BlackSky

Ukraine carried out a massive attack Wednesday on a Russian shipyard in Crimea's Sevastopol.

The cruise missile strikes appear to be part of Kyiv's effort to weaken Russia's grip on the strategic naval base by diminishing its usefulness.

The attack also deals a harsh blow to the logistics and operations of Moscow's Black Sea Fleet.

Russia's Black Sea Fleet has relied heavily on a strategic naval base and shipyard located on the occupied Crimean peninsula to help sustain its invasion of Ukraine, but a recent attack could jeopardize operations.

Ukrainian forces bombarded the port in Sevastopol this week with cruise missiles, damaging two ships and some of the surrounding facilities. It is the latest demonstration of Kyiv's longstanding effort to expel Russian forces from a prized naval base. Experts say the attack on the shipyard also dealt a harsh blow to Russia's maritime logistics, performance, and survivability in the Black Sea, as Moscow lacks the capacity to effectively service its navy elsewhere in the region.

"This attack is a major success for Ukraine," Michael Petersen, the director of the Russia Maritime Studies Institute at the US Naval War College, told Insider. "It's another blow to Russian seaborne logistics operations."

In a pre-dawn attack on Wednesday, Ukraine's air force fired 10 cruise missiles  which observers speculated were Western-made Storm Shadow/ SCALP-EG long-range cruise missiles  at the shipyard in Sevastopol. Russia's defense ministry said in a Telegram statement, the details of which have not been independently verified, that its air-defense systems managed to down seven of the missiles. The missiles that made it through inflicted damage on the landing vessel Minsk and the attack submarine Rostov-on-Don, which were both undergoing repairs. The ministry also said it destroyed three sea drones launched by Ukraine.

After the strikes, the Ukrainian air force thanked its pilots for what it said was "excellent combat work" while a top official in Kyiv called the strike on Sevastopol a "professional and meaningful" statement.

Satellite imagery obtained by Insider captured the shipyard before and after the attack, showing clear damage to the repair facility. The extent is unclear, although some videos published to social media on Thursday show significant destruction. If the damage to the base is severe enough, it may impair the Black Sea Fleet's readiness. The loss here could be more than a couple of warships.

BlackSky imagery captured work being done at the Sevastopol Shipyard dry docks in Russian-occupied Crimea on September 12, 2023. Courtesy of BlackSky

"The apparent destruction of the two vessels will likely render the dry dock inoperable until Russian forces can clear the debris, which may take a significant amount of time," experts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a Washington-based think tank, wrote in a Wednesday analysis. They added that any damage to the Black Sea Fleet's main repair facilities "will likely have reverberating impacts in the event of further Ukrainian strikes on Russian naval assets," which are becoming more regular targets for the Ukrainians.

'Potentially a major strategic blow'

Sevastopol is the longstanding headquarters of the Russian Black Sea Fleet and was a key part of the Crimea peninsula that Moscow illegally annexed in 2014. The shipyard there is home to a majority of the fleet's repair and logistics infrastructure, making it crucial in helping Russia maintain its vessels, which have been responsible for countless devastating missile strikes on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022.

Beyond Sevastopol, the Black Sea Fleet doesn't have many alternative options when it comes to repairs and upgrades. Russia's shipbuilding sector has long been plagued with issues, and the problems have only worsened since Moscow invaded Ukraine last year, thanks to Western sanctions and previous Ukrainian attacks on Sevastopol  which Kyiv has targeted multiple times  and on assets and positions around the Black Sea.

Petersen, an expert on Russian naval operations and strategy, said Russia could use floating dry docks in the port city of Novorossiysk, which has also been targeted in the past by Ukrainian sea drones, but these facilities may be overwhelmed by backlogs, making any facility losses at Sevastopol a problem. He said that the attack on Sevastopol "is potentially a major strategic blow" to the Russians.

View of a damaged Russian ship following a Ukrainian missile attack on Sevastopol, Crimea September 13, 2023 in this social media image. Crimean Wind via Telegram via REUTERS

"Russia just doesn't have enough dry docks and floating dry docks to service and repair its navy and its fleet of civilian vessels," Petersen said. "If the dry dock is severely damaged and needs repairs itself, the ship maintenance and repair schedule will be delayed worse than it has been already in the past few years."

Petersen said the strikes could also have an impact on Russia's naval headquarters and shipyard operations by reducing the willingness of headquarters staff and yard workers to go into work. Indeed, Russian state media reported that two dozen people were injured in Wednesday's attack. But still, he said "it would be a major political defeat to fully relocate the fleet headquarters, and it's almost impossible to fully relocate the repair infrastructure at the base."

Ben Hodges, a retired lieutenant general and former commander of US Army Europe, said attacking the Sevastopol shipyard highlights the "sophistication" of the Ukrainian military's attack planning. Maintenance facilities are high-value targets to pursue, he noted, because losses make it difficult for the enemy to keep ships "operating at peak effectiveness" for extended periods of time.

Smoke rises from the shipyard that was reportedly hit by Ukrainian missile attack in Sevastopol, Crimea, in this still image from video taken September 13, 2023. REUTERS TV via REUTERS

"You can sink ships, and eventually if you were able to sink them all, obviously that's good," Hodges told Insider. "But in this case, to destroy  or severely damage  a maintenance facility, it has a much more significant longer-term effect on the ability of Russian forces to continue to do things."

Raising the cost for Moscow

The Sevastopol strikes came on the heels of several other recent high-profile Ukrainian hits on strategic Russian targets in and around Crimea. These included the destruction of a formidable air-defense systems, a daring amphibious raid, sea drone attacks on a key bridge, and the capture of oil drilling platforms that were seized by Russia years ago and used for what Kyiv asserted was "military purposes."

All of these actions are part of a lengthy pressure campaign designed to make Crimea  which Kyiv has vowed to liberate from Russian occupation  "untenable" for Moscow's forces, Hodges told Insider. The attacks, he said, are one aspect of Ukraine's larger and multi-domain counteroffensive effort, which also includes the Ukrainian military's fight against Russia's defensive lines in the eastern and southern regions.

"At the operational level of war, it appears that part of Ukraine's strategy is to impose cost on Black Sea Fleet operations. The logic appears to be that if the Black Sea Fleet wishes to operate out of Sevastopol, then it will pay a heavy price to do so," Petersen said. "At the strategic level of war, the goal of course is to evict Russia from Crimea altogether. These operational and strategic goals are nested."

"One way to evict the Black Sea Fleet from Sevastopol is to raise the cost to such levels that Moscow decides that it can't or doesn't want to pay it anymore and withdraws the fleet," he said. Russia previously relocated some of its ships from Sevastopol to Novorossiysk after a naval drone attack last fall, and now new attacks are threatening vessels in maintenance and key facilities.

Despite these efforts to deny the Russians safe harbor and drive the Black Sea Fleet from Sevastopol, Petersen cautioned that "the chances of this happening without extraordinary Ukrainian success on the ground are vanishingly small."

Russian navy vessels near the Black Sea port of Sevastopol in Crimea on February 16, 2022. REUTERS/Alexey Pavlishak

It remains to be seen what specific long-term effects on the Black Sea Fleet arise in the aftermath of the Sevastopol strikes. Petersen hailed the attack as successful for Ukraine, and compared its military significance to when Kyiv's forces sank the guided-missile cruiser Moskva with anti-ship missiles in April 2022.

Damage to the landing vessel Minsk reduces Moscow's military sea-lift capabilities, while damage to the attack submarine Rostov-on-Don potentially disables  at least temporarily  a powerful missile-firing and mine-laying vessel that Ukraine had no way of locating while it was at sea, he said, adding that "if the dry dock is also damaged, that's an impressive three-in-one attack."

Read the original article on Business Insider
ASADABAD, Afghanistan, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Afghan police arrested four drug smugglers and seized 150 kg hashish in east Afghanistan's Kunar province on Thursday, provincial police chief Abdul Haq Haqqani said.

The arrested individuals placed the hashish in two separate cars and were attempting to smuggle the contraband, but police staff discovered the smuggled goods during the checking of the vehicles in Norgul district.

Afghan police have also taken into custody six persons on charge of involvement in drug trafficking in the western Nimroz province and three others in eastern Parwan province a couple of days ago. 
If Japan is on your travel bucket list, why not take the scenic route?

Holland America Lines new Majestic Japan cruise will take guests there and back over nearly two months in 2024. During the 53-day cruise, one of the cruise lines Legendary Voyages, passengers will also visit Alaska and Hawaii and Canada, and feature multiple overnight stays.

This cruise allows us to offer Japan from your doorstep with no more than a domestic air flight to Seattle, Paul Grigsby, the lines Vice President of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, said in a statement.

Heres what travelers can expect.

When is Holland America Lines Majestic Japan cruise?

The Majestic Japan cruise will sail round-trip from Seattle on Sept. 1, 2024, on the lines 1,964-passenger Westerdam ship.

Where will the cruise sail?

The cruise will make its first stop in Vancouver. Passengers can then take in views of glaciers in Alaskas Inside Passage and Stephens Passage, before visiting ports including Juneau and Sitka.

Because we can linger on our way, we have chosen to visit some of the best ports in Alaska, including Kodiak and Dutch Harbor, before landing at Kushiro, Hokkaido as (the) first port of call in Japan, Grigsby said. Other ports include Yokohama and Kobe, where the ship will stay overnight, Kochi and Hiroshima.

Bring the bikini, leave the kids: 4 things to know about sailing with Virgin Voyages

Guests can visit sites like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, and Grigsby said travelers may also see leaves turning in the high country around Mount Tateyama.

The rest of the itinerary will include stops in Kanazawa and Nagasaki, views of Iwo Jima, an overnight stay in Honolulu and more.

How much does the cruise cost?

The sailing currently starts at $8,084 per person based on double occupancy, according to Holland Americas website.

The fares include the majority of food on board, drinks like regular coffee and tea and more.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at ndiller@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: This cruise will take you to Alaska, Japan and Hawaii for $8,000
A federal grand jury has indicted 19 U.S. Postal Service workers, including 10 from Springfield, on wire fraud charges.

All are accused of defrauding people through various COVID-19 relief programs in 2020 and 2021.

Shawntelle Lynn, 31, was indicted in October in U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois on two counts of wire fraud. Patrice Green, 47, and Diamond Vinson, 29, were charged in August on four counts of wire fraud.

Tenneil Baskin, 42; Rachaundra Donaldson, 33; Maya Egbejimba, 25; Larry Eubanks, 35; Marcus Jones, 39; Shakeena Mosley, 35; and Rikkia Williams, 33, all were indicted last week on two counts of wire fraud.

Charles Hughes, 34, of Atlanta, Ga., but formerly of Springfield, also was charged with two counts of wire fraud last week.

More: Kurtis Minder has been inside ransomware deals. Here's what he thinks HSHS is up against

According to charging documents, each is accused of submitting Paycheck Protection Program applications to certified lenders using fraudulent business information. The businesses ranged from women's and children's clothing, couponing and agriculture; hair styling, fashion and jewelry, independent contracting, retail, construction, catering, ridesharing, and food delivery.

Each received tens of thousands of dollars in PPP loans and spent the money on personal items prohibited under the rules of the program, according to the court documents.

In addition, Green and Vinson were accused of attempting to defraud lenders in 2020 through Economic Injury Disaster Loans administered by the Small Business Administration. Each received $10,000 and used the money for their own personal gain.

All have either been arraigned or issued a summons to appear in federal court to answer for the charges. Lynn, Green and Vinson have pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Vinson is set for a jury trial on Oct. 3 at 9 a.m., with a pre-trial conference scheduled Sept. 21 in front of Circuit Judge Colleen Lawless.

Lynn had been set for trial last December, but that has been pushed back multiple times. Her trial is also set for Oct. 3 at 9 a.m. in front of Lawless.

If convicted, each of the accused could face up to 30 years in prison, five years of supervised release, and restitution of the money taken under fraudulent pretenses.

This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: U.S. Postal Service workers from Springfield indicted on fraud charges
BestReviews is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. Details.

Starbucks new Halloween drinkware includes a glow-in-the-dark slime cup

Spooky season is fast approaching, and if you love to dress up, youll love dressing up your Starbucks drinks in the coffee chains festive new Halloween drinkware. New tumblers, cold cups, mugs and more are starting to hit store shelves at participating Starbucks stores across the U.S., but supplies are limited, so youll need to hurry to get your hands on one.

And remember, if you bring a clean, reusable cup to Starbucks, you can get 10 cents off your order and an additional 25 Stars if youre a Starbucks Rewards member. All the more reason to enjoy your drink in spooky fashion this fall.

Theres a Halloween drinkware design for everyone

Whether you prefer your Halloween decor to be cute and pumpkin-themed or downright scary, theres something for you in Starbucks new drinkware line.

Green Drip Cold Cup

The Green Drip Cold Cup is one of the spookier options, and it glows in the dark.

Black Bling Cold Cups

The Black Bling Cold Cups are for those who like Halloween to be a bit more glam. They come in two sizes, or you can grab the keychain version for something to display year-round.

Calavera Skull Mug

The Calavera Skull Mug is ideal for a hot drink to warm you up as fall weather hits, and the iridescent skull design is haunting but with fun pops of color. This mug is available exclusively at Starbucks stores within Target locations.

Multicolor Cold Cup

The Multicolor Cold Cup features fall colors that vibrantly steal the show.

Pink Pumpkin Mug

The Pink Pumpkin Mug is on theme for fall, but its bright color will catch everyones eye at the pumpkin patch.

Green Pumpkin Tumbler

The Green Pumpkin Tumbler features a pumpkin and slime motif that will make everyone wonder what kind of witchs brew youre drinking (even if its just a Pumpkin Spice Latte).

There are even more designs available, but youll have to head to your local Starbucks to hunt for them. Remember that supplies are limited so dont wait too long!

Starbucks past Halloween drinkware lines offer even more spooky fun

If none of this years designs catch your eye, you can still grab some of the tumblers and mugs from previous years online.

Glow in the Dark Trees Tumbler with Stickers

Starbucks Halloween 2022 Glow in the Dark Trees Tumbler with Stickers

This cold cup from Starbucks 2022 Halloween collection features a spooky tree motif. It also glows in the dark and comes with stickers so you can personalize it to fit your style.

SHOP NOW

Glow in the Dark Black Cat Tumbler

Starbucks Exclusive LIMITED EDITION Halloween 2021 Glow in the Dark Black Cat Tumbler

This cold cup from Starbucks 2021 Halloween collection is large enough to hold Venti drinks. The design features a glittery black cat against a spider web and a full moon that glows in the dark, making this cup a spooky on-the-go must for trick-or-treating.

SHOP NOW

Cat Eyes Glow in the Dark Tumbler

Starbucks Halloween 2022 Cat Eyes Glow in the Dark Tumbler

Another Venti cold cup from Starbucks 2022 Halloween collection, this one features spooky, glowing cat eyes on a starry night.

SHOP NOW

Starbucks Limited Edition Studded Tumbler

Starbucks Limited Edition Studded Tumbler

This cold cup comes from Starbucks 2022 Halloween collection. Its another 24-ounce tumbler, with a simpler, studded design in seasonal orange.

SHOP NOW

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.

Christina Marfice writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
Legislators, working with local and regional grass-roots coalitions, launched a campaign to address the proliferation of single-use plastics in Massachusetts.

The hat belonging to Eileen Ryan, the leader of Beyond Plastics in Greater Boston, a Watertown resident, decorated by some of the single-use plastics targeted by the coalition aiming to update the state's Bottle Bill as well as reduce the use of certain plastics

Single-use plastics are not easy to get rid of; they are convenient, said Sen. Jason Lewis, D-Winchester. Im thrilled this day arrived.

The group has set its sights on reducing the use of plastics in Massachusetts. Legislators have filed bills that range from updating the states bottle bill to banning the use of plastics as incinerator fuel. A modernized bottle bill would increase the deposit while also extending the type of containers subject to a deposit and not just carbonated beverages.

The coalition, with upwards of 16 members so far and working with strong advocates in the House and Senate, has a goal of making Massachusetts plastic free.

This is a critical issue, Lewis said.

Rep. Michelle Ciccolo, D-Lexington, organizer of the legislatures Zero Waste Caucus, said she was thrilled to help launch the campaign to address the states plastic dependence. Its not easy to make policy changes.

As she discussed the campaign, she noted recyclable plastics, and not all can be recycled, can only be repurposed seven times at most. Once used, food containers and bottles cannot be recycled into food-grade containers for reuse.

Massachusetts incinerates 3 million tons of plastic a year; and 35% of our plastic is exported to other communities with less stringent laws, Ciccolo said.

Sen. Becca Rausch, D-Needham, helped launch a campaign to update the Massachusetts Bottle Bill and reduce the use of proliferation of single-use plastic at a State House rally Wednesday.

Sen. Becca Rausch, D-Needham, called the proliferation of plastic, and its pollution, a crisis of our own making. We need to take steps now to decrease damage to the planet, to our own physical health and the environment.

We need to limit the proliferation of single-use plastics, Rausch said.

Single-use plastics include beverage containers like water bottles, plastic shopping bags, food containers and shipping materials and packaging, items destined for immediate disposal and a possible trip to the landfill.

Call your legislator, call your friends, have them call their legislators, Rausch suggested, adding that residents can request their representatives to sign up as sponsors of the bills already filed. We need to address plastics this legislative session.

Fossil fuel industry behind the proliferation of single-use plastics

Plastics, Rausch said, are a product of the fossil fuel industry.

In reviewing statistics on plastic disposal, Rausch said that once used, 32% of items end up in the environment, 40% are sent to landfills, 14% are recycled, while only 2% are made into something better than a plastic bottle or plastic bag.

Plastic is mostly down-cycled, Rausch said. We cannot burn, bury or recycle our way out of this crisis; we need systemic change.

Eileen Ryan, Watertown, leader of Beyond Plastics of Greater Boston attended the launch of a campaign to update the state's bottle bill and address the proliferation of single-use plastics.

Mara Shulman, of the Conservation Law Foundation, said one of the goals is to return responsibility for ethical disposal of plastics to the manufacturers.

The people who make plastics need to reduce the toxicity, increase the recyclability and decrease the amount of plastic in packaging, Shulman said. Merely burning or reprocessing plastic is not acceptable.

A call to increase the required container deposit could create more incentives for Massachusetts residents to redeem their coins. But the ultimate goal, especially for plastic, is to refill and reuse containers.

Convenience reason for proliferation of single-use plastics

The single-use culture is so convenient, Shulman said.

Massachusetts has started to address its solid waste crisis creating community diversion programs for textiles, mattresses, compost and plastic bags. It's time, agreed the legislators and activists, for the state to step up and address the issue of single-use plastics.

We all take pride in Massachusetts being a global leader in universal health care, civil rights, climate change, but to be honest, it lags behind other states in addressing solid waste issues, Lewis said. Its time to take action.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Bills filed could increase container deposits, bar burning plastic
Students walk through a hallway at Johnson Park Middle School on the first day of school for the Columbus City Schools district on Aug. 23.

The state released its annual public school report cards Thursday morning, which means parents and the public can see how their school is faring under new measurements.

But starting last year, the Ohio Department of Education changed how it rates schools, moving from a letter-grade system (A-F) to a five-star rating system alongside new calculations and categories.

More: See how your central Ohio school stacked in the 2022 Ohio state report cards

Find your Ohio school district's 2023 report card

Find your individual school's 2023 report card

So, how do I read the state's report cards for my kid's district?

What do the report cards measure?

State report cards are available on the Ohio Department of Education website.

The ODE collects information from the state's over 600 public school districts and funnels the data into six categories: achievement, progress, early literacy, gap closing, graduation and readiness (college, career, workforce, military).

Schools can earn up to five stars in each category in increments of half-star ratings.

"This helps give Ohio parents and schools a snapshot of the quality of education being provided to students," according to the department's website.

But only if parents understand what these categories mean.

School report cards: School reports cards were released by the state Thursday. Columbus City Schools got worse.

Achievement

This measures how students did on statewide tests and whether their schools met established thresholds.

What this means is when students take statewide exams their scores get combined into an overall result for their school. That number then gets averaged with the totals for all other statewide tests administered in that building and the result earns the school up to five stars.

More stars mean higher achievement, but it's important to note that three stars mean the school met statewide expectations. Four stars are for exceeding expectations and five stars mean significantly exceeding expectations.

Progress

This category tracks how children are doing year over year instead of how well they score on statewide exams.

A child who is "way behind" could make a lot of progress in a year and still not pass his or her statewide exam.

It's a category that's been on Ohio's school report cards for years, but it got a little tweaking for the 2021-2022 academic year, The Dispatch previously reported. High-achieving districts had been dinged on previous report cards for not progressing when their students exceeded statewide achievement standards.

Progress can also show whether a school is "trending in the right direction." A school with two or three stars for achievement and five for progress is doing much better than it has in previous years.

Early Literacy

This category is relatively straightforward. It measures reading improvement and proficiency for students in kindergarten through third grade.

The thing to keep in mind about this category is that a five doesn't mean every student in that school or district reads at or above their grade level. It means the vast majority were proficient and were promoted to fourth grade.

Three stars in this category means the school met statewide standards.

Gap Closing

This component looks at several data points such as how many students are chronically absent, qualify for gifted programs, and whether certain subgroups of students (Black, Hispanic, disabled, economically disadvantaged) are meeting statewide standards.

For example, a school may score well overall but is failing their students with disabilities or those who test as gifted.

Graduation

The category looks at the percentage of students who graduate with a regular or honors diploma.

Here's how the star ratings work in this category:

One star means a graduation rate of less than 84%

Two stars mean a graduation rate of 84-89%

Three stars mean a graduation rate of 90-93.4% (This is the statewide standard for schools.)

Four stars mean a graduation rate of 93.5-96.4%

Five stars mean a graduation rate of 96.5% or more

What isn't measured yet?

One metric the state plans to add on report cards beginning in the 2024-2025 school year or later is "College, Career, Workforce and Military Readiness."

This category will measure how prepared the graduating class from a district or building is to go on to postsecondary education, enter the workforce or join the armed forces. Broadly speaking, the category is supposed to evaluate whether students are "prepared for what comes next" after they graduate high school. That could mean college, trade school, the military, an apprenticeship or a job.

To answer that question, schools submitted the number of students graduating with honors diplomas, AP credits, 12 or more College Credit Plus credits and state-recognized licenses.

The readiness of a graduating class will be estimated by calculating the number of students who achieve one or more of the component measure goals.

@Colebehr_report

Cbehrens@dispatch.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio state school report cards are out. See how your district did
Her name was Emma.

Thats what Brandon Haas told investigators less than two minutes after waiving his Miranda rights in October 2020, following his arrest in the death of 3-year-old Emma Grace Cole.

The toddler, who is not biologically related to Haas  he is married to her mother, Kristie Cole Haas  was found by a child on the edge of a Smyrna softball field in Sept. 2019. Her identity remained unknown for a year, until one of Kristie Haas family members came across a forensic sketch.

Haas and his wife were initially charged with endangering the welfare of a child and tampering with evidence, though those charges were later upgraded to include child abuse. Kristie Haas was additionally charged with murder about seven months after the couples arrest.

Kristie and Brandon Haas were married in 2017, according to posts on their Facebook pages. This photo was posted to Kristie Haas' account of the couple.

Since their arrests, Brandon Haas has largely agreed to work with law enforcement, which allowed him to remain out on bond. His cooperation came to a head earlier this year when his attorneys negotiated a plea deal that required him to testify against his wife should her case go to trial.

She ultimately pleaded guilty in May after learning that her husband had also pleaded.

On Thursday, Haas' past two years of cooperation proved not to pay off as he was sentenced to four years in prison, significantly more than the sentence of probation his defense team had asked for, though a year less than prosecutors requested.

KRISTIE HAAS' SENTENCE: She starved and beat her daughter, then burned her body. Emma Grace Cole's mom sentenced

It was a muted win for Emma Graces family members, who have long said they didnt believe probation alone would be sufficient for the 41-year-olds role in the abuse and neglect of Emma Grace and her three half-siblings, and the subsequent coverup.

"Do you believe justice is in a world where Mr. Haas serves zero days in prison?" said Joshua Douthitt, Emma Grace's father, before the sentence was handed down. "He is just as responsible."

Admission of wrongdoing but failure to acknowledge punishment

In a sentencing memorandum submitted to the court last month, prosecutors noted Haas willingness to work with police, especially in contrast to his wifes dishonesty.

Haas, prosecutors said, was immediately ready to tell police what had happened to Emma Grace and her siblings, and has maintained that she died on July 27, 2019  which was made public for the first time Thursday. He admitted that she was punished for bad behavior, which supposedly began after her third birthday in January 2019.

He described it as two, three months of just (expletive) hell, in which the girl  who was being starved and beaten by her mother and forced to perform cruel exercises by both Haases  would throw tantrums and fail to do age-inappropriate chores to Kristie Haas liking.

THEIR PLEAS: Inside the plea deals for mom, stepdad of toddler found dead in Smyrna softball field

Kristie Haas also wrote in her diary about Emma Graces apparent disobedience, claiming the 3-year-old, whom photos show was incredibly emaciated, was trying to exert power over her.

I feel as if these are (a) power/placement battle, like she does not have to listen/respect/obey me, Kristie Haas wrote in her journal. That I need to cater to her (and) let her do whatever she wants when she wants and how she wants. And if I dont then she will show me whose (sic) boss.

Emma Grace Cole

The April 21, 2021 entry continued:

But when (Brandon) or other people she wont. She wants everyone to feel bad for her, and (hope) I give her everything. Now with Brandon she doesnt want anything, she just wants him to save her, and let her go play. Which is sitting down doing nothing.

While Haas worked during during the day, leaving his wife home with the children, he told police that he saw some of the behavior Kristie Haas described. When speaking of the toddler, he referred to her crudely, saying she knew what to do to turn on the charm and could get what she wanted by being a little bitch, according to the sentencing memorandum.

He also admitted to punishing all four children and described making them run in the basement using a weighted sled, spankings by both him and his wife  though he described hers as excessive  and having the children stand in the corner, according to the memorandum.

Haas also said he would put hot sauce under their tongues, have them write sentences, force them to hold weighted buckets of chains for about 30 seconds but adding more each time if they moved, sometimes adding up to a total of an half hour, and having them do 30-second wall-sits.

He specifically mentioned forcing Emma to run in the basement, prosecutors wrote.

The 41-year-old also said that at various times, Emma Grace was only fed rice and oatmeal, but he understood this to be based on medical advice Kristie Haaas had gotten, because Emma was allegedly intentionally vomiting up other food, prosecutors wrote.

REMEMBERING EMMA GRACE: A passion for Paw Patrol and a persuasive smile

But medical records show that Kristie Haas hadnt sought any medical attention for Emma since early 2018, despite taking the other three children to sick and wellness visits.

Brandon did not think it was a punishment to feed the toddler minimal food, prosecutors said.

He denied that they withheld food from her  but the evidence shows otherwise, even assuming Brandon sincerely believed it, the memorandum said.

At Thursday's sentencing, Haas did little to acknowledge the pain he inflicted on Emma Grace and her siblings, largely focusing his apology on the fact that he did not call 911 after the toddler died.

While he said it is "a decision I regret to this day and will forever," he largely blamed his wife for the abuse and did not mention what the children suffered.

Recently, he told pre-sentence investigators that he had "little to no knowledge" of his wife's abuse of her children  but immediately after his arrest, admitted his role in the crimes and detailed Kristie Haas' actions.

Kent County Superior Court Judge Noel Primos noted this Thursday.

"What concerns and troubles the court, however, is that what Mr. Haas has told the pre-sentence investigator ... and what he has told this court, both through counsel and his own statements, is very different from a full acceptance of responsibility."

Why target Emma Grace?

Though Haas may not have believed that he and his wife were torturing Emma Grace, court documents show he knew the 3-year-old was treated worse than her siblings.

He told police that Kristie Haas was harder on the girl, saying that when the other kids misbehaved, she would turn a blind eye. But when Emma Grace acted out, it was the end of the world.

In part, this was because Emma Graces conception was a revenge pregnancy, Kristie Haas told investigators.

Emma Grace was born to Joshua Douthitt, while another man fathered Kristie Haas other three kids.

At some point after the youngest was born, the father of Emma Graces three half-siblings became romantic with the mother of Douthitts children. The two remained together for years.

The funeral program of Emma Grace Cole sits on an ottoman Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021, inside the home of Tanya Axsom in Bloomington, Ind.

Angry and using drugs at the time, Kristie Haas was intimate with Douthitt. She told police she was trying to make a point that I could get anybody.

Emma Grace was conceived from that rendezvous, though Douthitt  who was in prison at the time of his daughters birth  refused to acknowledge that the girl was his. It wasnt until later, when his aunt and Emma Graces great-aunt was granted custody of the baby, that he acknowledged he was the father.

Tanya Axson Conley, Douthitts aunt and Emma Graces former guardian, previously told Delaware Online/The News Journal repeatedly that after Emma Graces birth, Kristie Haas said she didnt want the baby.

READ: How a judges decision, a parents will and a legal presumption failed Emma Grace Cole

Conley also gave court officials and attorneys the same account, according to records obtained by Delaware Online/The News Journal.

Haas said these circumstances were why his wife targeted the girl. She would "whoop all their asses," he said, but was harder on Emma because of the situation how it came about," referring to the girls conception.

Despite post-arrest cooperation, Haas didnt preemptively contact police

Though Haas began working with police soon after his arrest and has largely turned his life around, as detailed by both the 41-year-old and his attorney on Thursday, Emma Graces family remains angry, saying it does little to mitigate what he did and did not do.

Not only did he actively participate in the childrens abuse, said Kelsey Cole Navarro, Kristie Haas sister. But once Emma Grace was dead, he didnt call the police.

HOW EMMA GRACE WAS ID'D: She was known only as a toddler found dead in a ball field. A year later, someone recognized this sketch

After that, Navarro said, he remained with his wife and the three living children for more than a year after they moved out of their Smyrna home and to the hotel where they were ultimately arrested. In the room were drugs and paraphernalia, and Haas admitted to investigators before taking a polygraph test that hed used methamphetamine in the 24 hours prior.

The defendant was not merely a silent collaborator," said prosecutor Kevin Smith, adding that Haas continued playing a role even after Emma Grace's death. "He joined her in the coverup."

The casket of Emma Grace Cole rests on a table inside Chandler Funeral Home in Ellettsville, Ind., on March 31, 2021. Cole is believed to have died in the summer of 2019, but she wasn't identified until the fall of 2020. Her remains were released to her father in March 2021.

At Thursdays sentencing, Kristie Haas family stressed that what Haas did was heinous and he could have stopped it at any time. They added that the living children will forever live with how he traumatized them.

"He is just as guilty as Kristie," wrote Conley, Emma Grace's former guardian, in a victim impact statement read by the prosecutor on Thursday. "How do you hurt a child and put them through so much torture?"

Got a story tip or idea? Send to Isabel Hughes at ihughes@delawareonline.com. For all things breaking news, follow her on Twitter at @izzihughes_

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Stepdad of Emma Grace Cole sentenced in abuse and murder case
United Auto Workers members walk in the Labor Day parade in Detroit on Sept. 4, 2023. The union is threatening to strike any automaker that hasn't reached an agreement by the time contracts expire on Sept. 14.

Good morning! Its Thursday, September 14, 2023, and this is The Morning Shift, your daily roundup of the top automotive headlines from around the world, in one place. Here are the important stories you need to know.



1st Gear: Less Than A Day To Go For An Agreement

The UAW says it plans to strike at certain Detroit Three plants starting Friday, September 15, unless a new agreement can be put in place by 11:59 p.m. tonight. Thats what President Shawn Fain is saying, at least, while two of the three automakers say they havent gotten responses from the union to their latest offers.

Read more

[...] Theres still time left, Farley said. Whether theres room in there or not, we wont know if we dont get feedback. We dont understand why we cant get feedback to make this deal to forge the future. Asked if the UAW was negotiating in bad faith, Farley asked rhetorically: How can you negotiate if you dont get a well considered, genuine counteroffer? General Motors said in its own statement that it has submitted multiple strong offers.

On the live stream, Fain reportedly revealed details of the automakers most recent proposals. They include wage increases of 20 percent from Ford, 18 percent from GM, and 17.5 percent from Stellantis. All three would also cut the time it takes new hires to earn top wages in half to just four years.

The companies differ on the temporary worker issue, according to the union. Fain said Ford is offering to convert all current temps with 90 days of continuous service into full-time status. GM, he said, was offering inadequate benefits, no profit-sharing and a meager wage increase, while Stellantis had a similar offer to GM with no path to full-time status. Regarding cost-of-living adjustments, the union said Ford was willing to restore an old COLA formula but noted it would offer wage protection of less than $1 over the next four and a half years. He said GM and Stellantis were offering a formula that would provide zero wage protection over the course of the next contract. He also said the profit-sharing formulas offered by the companies would be less generous than they are today.

The three companies still differ on the issue of temporary workers. Fain apparently said Ford is offering to convert all current temps within 90 days of continuous service into full-time status. GM is offering inadequate benefits and Stellantis has no path to full-time status.

Regarding cost-of-living adjustments, the union said Ford was willing to restore an old COLA formula but noted it would offer wage protection of less than $1 over the next four and a half years. He said GM and Stellantis were offering a formula that would provide zero wage protection over the course of the next contract. He also said the profit-sharing formulas offered by the companies would be less generous than they are today. He said all three continue to reject all of the unions job security, work-life balance and retiree priorities. The job security priorities include reinstating a jobs bank that would continue to pay workers when theyre laid off, and the work-life balance proposal calls for a four-day work week at five days worth of pay.

Were making progress at each of the three negotiating tables, but were still very far apart on our key priorities, Fain said, according to Auto News. We do not yet have offers on the table that reflect the sacrifice and contributions our members have made to these companies.

He argued that the three automakers could double our wages and still be profitable, and he framed the push for better contracts as between the working class and the rich.

These corporations are mountains, Fain reportedly said. Together we can make these mountains move.

2nd Gear: Teamsters Back Up UAW, Wont Deliver Cars

Truck drivers who haul vehicles for the Detroit Three are planning to stand with UAW members if they go on strike at 11:59 p.m. tonight. That means they will not be delivering vehicles for Ford, GM, or Stellantis.

We are 100 percent supportive of UAW workers and Shawn Fains positions, Kevin Moore, International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 299 president, reportedly said. Our Teamsters will not cross strike lines.

Moore represents about 5,000 Teamster members, and most of them drive freight car haulers. He spoke with Fain during Detroits Labor Day parade, and his wife is a UAW. member.

I understand their struggles and their issues. I understand the membership of the UAW, and their really strong feelings about fighting for second-tier workers who make $11 an hour less than the full-time workers. This has been going on for years. You have a person working side-by-side with someone earning $11 an hour less than Tier 1 employees, Moore told the Detroit Free Press. I understand trying to bring parity to that work group.

More from Freep:

Moore, in Grand Rapids this week attending a statewide meeting, is also president of Michigan Joint Council #43 that encompasses all locals in the state or 35,000 Teamsters. Michigan has an additional 200,000 Teamsters retirees. The Teamsters are on standby to respond at a moments notice to a UAW strike, he said. [...] Since Moore has run Local 299 for 24 years, he said he knows just about every Teamster local leader in the country. And they represent a membership of 1.4 million, he said. Detroit Teamsters are on standby, Moore said. The Tier 1 workers are fighting for the Tier 2 workers. This is about fairness. In addition to driving trucks, Teamsters work in warehousing, operating and repairing ferries and building ships. The Teamsters ratified last month a five-year contract for more than 340,000 UPS workers, raising wages for full- and part-time employees. The scope of support for the UAW also includes the United Steelworkers, AFL-CIO, Service Employees International (SEIU), Starbucks Workers United, American Federation of Teachers (AFT), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and CWA (Communication Workers of America).

What good is it for us to deliver goods and services to companies when they have workers fighting for their pay and their conditions? Moore told Freep. We have to show support.



3rd Gear: Biden Wants Round-The-Clock Talks

President Joe Biden reportedly wants the UAW and the Big Three to work around-the-clock to avoid a strike, according to White House economic adviser Jaren Berstein. From Automotive News:

Biden has encouraged the parties to stay at the table and to work 24 and 7 to get a win-win agreement that keeps UAW workers at the heart of our auto future, Bernstein said. Asked whether Biden will bring in negotiators or be more actively involved, Bernstein said the presidents been very much engaged. Biden has met the UAW president in the Oval Office, called him on Labor Day, and called executives from all three automakers before he left for the G20 last week to encourage them to provide more forward leaning offers to stay at the table.

Hopefully the most pro-union president in American history doesnt stick UAW members with the same situation he put rail workers in.

4th Gear: A Different UAW Strike

Over 1,000 UAW members employed by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan walked off the job on September 13th. Workers, represented by the Detroit UAW and several other locals across the state, authorized the strike in late August. Negotiations first kicked off in July when workers demanded significant wage increases, better healthcare benefits, and the return of certain outsourced jobs. From Automotive News:

Pickets were seen in downtown Detroit on Wednesday morning as the Detroit auto show opened its doors. The UAWs contracts with General Motors, Ford and Chrysler parent Stellantis are due to expire at 11:59 p.m. EDT on Thursday. [...] Our main thing were having some concerns with is outsourcing, Janice Hilliard, president of UAW Local 2145 in Grand Rapids, told Crains. Currently a lot of our work gets outsourced to vendors, including out of the country, such as El Salvador and the Philippines. This is work in our claims area or customer service area, so we wanted to get some type of (contract) language to pretty much stop that, so to speak. Hilliard said the outsourcing has led to a dramatic reduction in UAW employees at BCBSM, which represents about 1,100 today, down from more than 5,000 years ago.

BCBSM workers also noted opposition to the extremely high compensation of its CEO, Dan Loepp. It totaled about $157 million in 2022. Thats a lot of cash.

Reverse: McKinley Gets Got

Neutral: Life Isnt Fair

On The Radio: Pete Seeger - Solidarity Forever

More from Jalopnik

Sign up for Jalopnik's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.
(Bloomberg) -- Any peace initiative imposed on Ukraine without Kyivs acceptance would backfire for the West by failing to draw a line under Russian imperialism, the Czech Republics top envoy said.

Most Read from Bloomberg

As Ukraines grinding counteroffensive makes halting progress and winter approaches, Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky urged Ukraines allies to maintain their resolve even if Kyiv doesnt make a quick breakthrough. The real enemy is Russias expansionary ambitions, he said.

If Ukraine is forced into a solution it doesnt accept, the West will lose it  and well have a nation of 40 million at our borders feeling betrayed, Lipavsky said in an interview in Prague. We dont want to just defer the war. We want to end Russias ability to expand in eastern Europe by force.

The US and its allies have repeatedly said that any political resolution to the 18-month war would have to have Ukraines consent. A 10-point peace formula for which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is seeking support in the Global South includes the full withdrawal of Russian troops as the main condition, a demand the Kremlin has dismissed. Zelenskiy has ruled out talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

In the meantime, a counteroffensive thats stretched for more than three months has been slowed by Russian forces dug in along a vast frontline. Despite reports of a breakthrough, notably in Ukraines southeast, the prospect of a prolonged conflict has worried Ukraines allies, raising the potential of political difficulties in sustaining aid and worries that some allies may be tempted to nudge Kyiv into negotiations.

Lipavsky insisted that support among NATO and European Union allies is stronger than ever. The Czech Republic has been one of the staunchest backers of Kyiv, supplying it with tanks, ammunition and other military equipment, as well as having sheltered more than 500,000 Ukrainian fleeing the war  the No. 3 destination for refugees in the EU after Poland and Germany.

The Czech diplomat said Zelenskiys formula has managed to survive an initial stage, with China, Saudi Arabia, Brazil and South Africa now willing to take part in the debate, which excludes Russia.

Im not saying that they are leaning toward our positions, but at least we are engaging in a dialogue, he said.

Lipavsky insisted that some nations that were hesitant in early stages are now moving closer to the position of the West. Many, for pragmatic reasons, dont want to be aligned with an increasingly isolated Russia. Others are becoming antagonized by Moscows aggression in the Black Sea and cutting off an agreement that guaranteed grain shipments, he said.

The Czech diplomat is also looking at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly as an opportunity for the nations worldwide to demonstrate their commitment to democratic principles.

At the time of the largest military conflict on the European continent since the end of the World War II, for the Czech Republic, for Europe and for the entire western world it will be a crucial display of the level of support for ideas of multilateralism and international law, Lipavsky said.

(Updates with comments about UNGA in 11th paragraph. A previous version of this story corrected the wording on expansionary ambitions in third paragraph.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
A 16-year-old boy is facing several gun charges after he allegedly brought a loaded firearm into a Lowell Charter School forcing a lockdown, according to Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan.

Police responded to Lowell Middlesex Academy Charter School just before 1 p.m. on Tuesday, after receiving reports that multiple students might be in possession of firearms.

The school security guards reported to responding officers that there was also a threat made to shoot up the block.

Police were quickly able to locate the suspected student who was attempting to leave the school carrying an over-the-shoulder bag. The student then struck the officer before being detained.

A loaded revolver was found inside the students bag and the teen was placed under arrest, says District Attorney Ryan.

The school was then placed on lockdown, classes were stopped and three police K9s conducted a sweep of the school. That sweep was negative for further weapons.

Lowell Police Superintendent Greg Hudon confirmed that the 16-year-old student has been charged with carrying a loaded firearm without a license, carrying a firearm without a license, carrying a dangerous weapon on school grounds, assault and battery of a police officer and possession of ammunition without a license.

We will not tolerate illegal firearms in our schools in Middlesex County, said District Attorney Ryan. In this case the young person who brought this loaded weapon into school put fellow students, school staff, himself, responding officers and everyone in the community at risk. I applaud the student who came forward to report this incident to a trusted adult. It is imperative that, as we continue to train parents, educators and law enforcement around the issue of gun violence in schools, that we remember that students are one of our best assets. We know that students are often more likely to hear these kinds of threats, see something on social media or have knowledge that a peer has access to a weapon. Guns and threats of violence have no place in our schools and we will hold responsible those who jeopardize the safety of our schools.

The teen was arraigned on Wednesday in Lowell Juvenile Court.

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
Hundreds of Timberline High School students walked out of class Thursday to protest the ongoing suspension of a teacher, holding signs and chanting, Bring back Boulton.

Timberline teacher Laura Boulton was placed on paid administrative leave on Sept. 7, Boise School District spokesperson Dan Hollar told the Idaho Statesman by email Monday.

Parents and students have said they are seeking answers regarding her suspension, and some students held a walkout last Friday as well. The Boise School District has declined to explain the action, citing an exemption in Idahos Public Records Act that allows agencies to withhold personnel information.

The district did, however, distribute a letter rejecting a narrative that has been pushed on social media  that the teacher was suspended over reporting assault, harassment or abuse after something was disclosed to her by a student.

One of the students signs at Thursdays protest read, Silencing Boulton is silencing victims, an apparent reference to whats circulating online.

The rumors and speculation circulating ... about why Ms. Boulton is on administrative leave are not correct, the Boise School District letter read. Ms. Boulton was not placed on administrative leave for reporting acts of sexual assault and/or harassment, or any other report from Ms. Boulton regarding harassment, bullying or abuse. She was also not placed on leave for any behaviors that occurred prior to 2023.

Timberline High School students stand on the sidewalk across the street from their school Thursday after staging a walkout to protest teacher Laura Boultons suspension.

A purported evaluation of Boulton also began circulating on social media: Mrs. Boulton does not follow appropriate professional boundaries between teacher/student & teacher/teacher-shared student confidential information, telling students to request teacher changes, involving herself in personnel issues.

The districts letter addressed this as well. It stated that what was posted online is not Ms. Boultons actual evaluation that is in her personnel file, nor was it ever placed in her personnel file.

Boulton attended the protest and stood on the sidewalk across the street from the students. She spoke to them through a megaphone. She said she could not address her suspension, but spoke about Timberline High School Principal Diana Molino.

Laura Boulton holds her hands in the shape of a heart and tells a crowd of several hundred students lining the sidewalk across from Timberline High School I love you during the walkout.

I have done nothing but love that woman, Boulton said. And I am sorry she doesnt love me back. And thats OK. Im OK with that. Its not her fault. Its this school districts fault. Its this countrys fault.

The teacher also asked the protesting students to write Molino an apology for leaving class.

Molino watched the protest from the schoolyard but declined to field questions when approached by the Idaho Statesman.

One protester, Timberline senior Stephanie Liu, told the Statesman that she feels safer with Boulton than with almost anyone else in her life.

Shes just very supportive, Liu said. Shes someone you always feel safe with. Shes just an all-around amazing, inspiring person. Shes honestly my hero.

This embedded content is not available in your region.
YANGON, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar hosted the 20th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Air Chiefs Conference (20th AACC) here on Wednesday, according to the Office of the Commander-in-Chief of Defense Services.

The air chiefs from Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam attended the 20th AACC, and air chiefs from the Philippines and Singapore joined the conference by sending video messages.

Themed "ASEAN Air Forces' Cooperation for Sustainable Environment," the conference focused on matters related to cooperation among the ASEAN Air Forces.

On the occasion, the chairmanship of the 21st AACC was handed over to Soeung Samnang, commander of the Royal Cambodian Air Force, who delivered the greeting.

Myanmar hosted the 11th AACC for the first time in 2014, and the 20th AACC for the second time. 
Postpartum depression is common, and many new parents go without treatment or face delays.

Postpartum depression is common, and many new parents go without treatment or face delays.

After Lee-Anne Mosselman-Clarke, a mother in Ontario, gave birth to her first child 11 years ago, she thought she understood why she felt so low during those first weeks and months of parenthood.

Her son had really severe health issues, she told HuffPost. He was in the hospital for quite a while, so I just kind of pushed my own needs to the side.

But when she gave birth to her second child two years later and experienced the same symptoms, they pointed to a different cause: postpartum depression. This time around, her midwife suggested she look into cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Mosselman-Clarke began working one-on-one with a therapist, and it was okay, she said. But I kept thinking, I dont want to talk to a doctor about this, I want to talk to people ... that get it.

Lee-Anne Mosselman-Clarke recovered from postpartum depression and later led a group of new parents through cognitive behavioral therapy treatment.

Lee-Anne Mosselman-Clarke recovered from postpartum depression and later led a group of new parents through cognitive behavioral therapy treatment.

She eventually found a group CBT program, which she credits with helping her recover from her depression. The group dynamic, she said, was critical: Being able to have the empathy and compassion and not feel the guilt and shame.

The camaraderie of the group, she believes, was an ideal counter to the isolation that both accompanied and compounded her depression. Years later, when she heard of an opportunity to train as a peer leader for this kind of a group, Mosselman-Clark was eager to sign up.

What is postpartum depression?

Up to 75% of birthing parents experience some sadness or mood swings in the weeks following delivery, according to Cleveland Clinic. This temporary emotional dip is commonly referred to as baby blues, and it is attributed to the steep plunge in hormone levels that occurs after birth. For as many as 1 in 5 women and birthing people, however, these feelings of sadness dont lift, leading to a diagnosis of postpartum depression. (Its important to note that fathers and adoptive and other non-gestational parents can experience postpartum depression, too.)

Therapy and medication can be effective treatments for postpartum depression. In fact, the FDA has just approved the first pill specifically to treat it. But with so many people impacted, and the current shortage of mental health providers, patients often face significant delays in accessing treatment. In addition, some new parents hesitate to speak about their symptoms because they feel shamed or stigmatized, further delaying their care.

An effective treatment.

Given the need for compassionate, evidence-based care that can meet such a high need, group CBT delivered by peers offers a treatment option that could be scaled to meet the needs of many patients.

The group Mosselman-Clarke led was part of a study conducted by researchers at McMaster University in Canada to assess peer-led CBT groups as a mode of treatment for postpartum depression.

Participants were identified using the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale. Those who scored 10 or higher, indicating possible depression, were offered a spot in the study.

People who have that level of symptoms can still have a lot of struggles, but sometimes theyre not eligible for services because theyre not severe enough, explained Dr. Ryan Van Lieshout, a professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioral neurosciences at McMaster University and one of the authors of the study.

Participants were then randomly assigned either to take part in the CBT group right away or nine weeks later. This way, researchers could compare the results of the group who received treatment with the group that had not received it yet. Throughout this time, participants in both groups received treatment as usual, which sometimes included individual meetings with a therapist or another provider. The health care service used outside of the group was equivalent in the two groups, Van Lieshout said.

The original plan was for the groups to meet in person, but because of the pandemic, they ended up meeting entirely online via Zoom. For each of the nine weeks, groups met for two hours. The second hour centered on a weekly discussion topic of interest to new parents, such as sleep. The first hour focused on core cognitive behavioral therapy skills, Van Lieshout said. He referred to these as the traditional parts of CBT.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is an evidence-based treatment whose aim is to change your thinking patterns. One of these strategies is called cognitive restructuring, in which people learn to identify the thoughts that theyre having that might lead to shifts in their mood, Van Lieshout told HuffPost. Once they learn to identify the thoughts that are making them feel anxious, sad or depressed, they are taught to balance that harsher self-talk with other thoughts, thereby improving their mood and reducing anxiety.

For people with postpartum depression, Van Lieshout said, such thoughts frequently express inadequacy: Im not good enough, I wont be able to do this, Im not a good mother.

Mosselman-Clarke explained that participants were taught multiple ways of balancing this thought with another. One technique involves imagining what you would tell your best friend in a similar situation. We are way harder on ourselves than we ever would be on somebody we care for, she observed.

A thought of inadequacy, for example, might be balanced with something like: I am able to meet my babys needs.

What I like about the peer CBT is that we are teaching them to be their own therapist. In the end, they are telling themselves these things. Theyre putting the balanced thoughts into their phone, or writing it on paper and putting it on the fridge, or taking a screenshot of it or some of them would write it on their mirror.

Mosselman-Clarke said that some participants were skeptical of those types of actions and were surprised to experience improvements in their relationship with their babies, or their partners, after doing so.

At the end of the nine weeks, the ones who got the treatment right away experienced clinically significant improvements in postpartum depression and anxiety, Van Lieshout said.

The individuals in the treatment group were 11 times less likely to meet diagnostic criteria for a full major depressive episode at the end of treatment compared to the individuals in the control group, he continued.

Participants were assessed both at the end of the nine week cycle and again three months out, and the researchers found that the observed improvements had not gone away.

Given how common postpartum depression is, and how great the need for services, Van Lieshout believes that the study shows recovered peers can help bridge that gap between need and availability for treatments that women just really deserve.

The healing potential of a group dynamic.

While peer-delivered therapies have been used to treat other mental health conditions, such as substance use disorder, there is a clear case for their use in postpartum depression. A group can help combat the feelings of isolation that new parents may face, and hearing from peers that they are not alone in their feelings and that recovery is possible can bring patients hope.

It was remarkable, Van Lieshout said, to see women sort of band together against a common cause or a common problem, and how they come to each others aid, and they support one another.

One of the most powerful things in helping people get better are the other members of the group, he said.

The combination of this group dynamic and the structured, evidence-based CBT therapy, Van Lieshout believes, creates a treatment that offers the best of both worlds.

Van Lieshout wants expectant parents to know that postpartum depression is a common issue. Its not a weakness. Its something that develops as a combination of biology and environment and ... can happen to anyone. Equally important, he said, people should know that there are effective treatments available, and they arent necessarily treatments that will need to be continued in the long term.

Mosselman-Clarke would tell new and expectant parents, adjusting to parenthood is a massive life change. And it is okay to say youre not okay. You dont have to fake being happy.

Asking for help isnt a failure, she added.

Related...
New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu (R) on Wednesday pushed back against the idea that former President Trump will run away with the GOP 2024 presidential nomination, predicting Trump would lose if the other candidates had the discipline to drop out and make the GOP primary a one-on-one match-up.

Look, if seven of those candidates have the discipline to get out, Trump loses, Sununu said in an interview on Fox News. When you think about it that way, the voters job is to find the alternate to Trump, but the candidates job are to get out of that race. And if you do that, and make it a one-on-one race, Trump loses. Theres no question about it.

Sununu, the moderate Republican leader of an important early primary state, predicted that Trump would get about 40 percent to 42 percent of the vote in that case, noting, but thats not going to be enough to win, especially going into something like Super Tuesday.

So, huge opportunities for these candidates to say, Im going to be the alternative and make sure the other candidates ultimately know, theres no room for you, and theres too much at stake with the entire Republican ticket in 24, just to let everybody on there, he added.

Sununu also said he thinks polls are wrong in showing that Trump would win in a hypothetical match-up with President Biden, noting that polls have frequently overestimated GOP performance.

The polls were neck and neck in 2022, and the Republicans got their butts kicked. We should have had a huge red wave, and we barely got by with a red ripple. We should have had big wins in 2020, and the entire ticket suffered. You know, we should have had wins in 2018. And we lost the House, Sununu said.

We always think were going to win. The polls always seem to think that the Republicans are going to win, but the reality is we dont, and when you have Trump and his message on top of the ticket, we lost in 18. We lost in 20. We lost the 22. Why would you think that its going to be a different result in 24? he added.

Sununu said he thinks its more likely that Biden is not on the Democratic ticket than that Trump isnt on the Republican one, a point he did not elaborate on. He said if that happens, though, Youre going to have a new candidate, a new generational change potentially within the Democrat Party. And were going to be here trying to, as Republicans, relitigating what happened four years ago.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A group of GOP senators is accusing the Education Department of bristling at the Supreme Courts ban on race-conscious admissions and demanding the agency explain how it plans to enforce the controversial new standard.

In a caustic letter sent to Education Secretary Miguel Cardona earlier this week, 10 Republicans, led by Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, pressured the department to embrace the full essence of the Courts holdings. The letter was sent Tuesday and made public Thursday.

The American people deserve no less than an Executive Branch committed to enforcing the law equally to all people without concern for their race, they wrote. We are concerned enforcement of the new legal standard will be insufficient.

The Republicans  who include Sens. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., and JD Vance, R-Ohio, among others  pressured the department to produce a plan of action for how it will conduct oversight to ensure colleges stay up to snuff with the courts reversal of decades of precedent.

Supreme Court axed affirmative action. Biden administration offers colleges tips on diversity

They also requested to know how many department employees or contractors could be responsible for enforcing the legal standard imposed by the court. The letter gives the department until the end of the month to provide the information to the chairs and ranking members of education-related committees in both chambers of Congress.

After the Supreme Court struck down the practice of race-conscious admissions in a long-awaited decision in June, President Joe Biden lambasted the conservative justices.

This is not a normal court, he said during a press conference he called just after the ruling. The president said he strongly, strongly disagreed with the decision and called on colleges and universities to develop a "new standard" that would consider students life adversities in admissions, including any racial discrimination they may have faced.

Investigation into Harvard's admissions This time looking at legacy preferences

Colleges cite caveat to consider race

A number of selective schools have already worked such questions into essay prompts. Sarah Lawrence College, a private liberal arts college in New York state, for example, announced in July it would include a new question for applicants that explicitly asks how applicants lives have been affected by the Courts decision. The prompt cites a caveat in Chief Justice John Roberts majority opinion, which says nothing prohibits universities from considering an applicant's discussion of how race affected the applicant's life, so long as that discussion is concretely tied to a quality of character or unique ability that the particular applicant can contribute to the university.

The Education Department issued a dear colleague letter last month urging colleges to find workarounds to the decision to retain students of color. It also recommended that universities reexamine practices that have historically benefitted wealthier and whiter students, such as preferences for legacy students or children of donors. Prior to the ruling, considering race as part of a holistic admissions process was most prevalent at the nation's most selective schools.

An Education Department spokesperson told USA TODAY the department has received the letter and is reviewing it.

Zachary Schermele is a breaking news and education reporter for USA Today. You can reach him by email at zschermele@usatoday.com. Follow him on X at @ZachSchermele.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: GOP senators want affirmative action ban enforcement from Cardona
WASHINGTON  The Supreme Court on Thursday temporarily blocked a lower court ruling that would restrict the Biden administration's contact with social media companies.

Conservative Justice Samuel Alito issued the brief less than two hours after the Justice Department asked the Supreme Court to step in.

It gives the court more time to consider what steps to take before it decided whether to grant the administration's request. In the meantime, the lower court ruling will remain on hold until midnight Sept. 22.

Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar urged the Supreme Court to stay an injunction issued by the U.S. District Court for Western Louisiana in July, which was partly upheld by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals last week. The district judge had ruled this year that some government agencies and Biden administration officials should be restricted from communicating and meeting with social media companies in order to moderate their content.

The decision is in response to a lawsuit from the GOP attorneys general in Louisiana and Missouri, who alleged U.S. government officials went too far in pressing social media companies to address posts related to Covid-19 vaccines and the 2020 election.

Alito's order, which does not mean the court will necessarily grant Prelogar's request once it is considered in more detail, said the states should respond by Wednesday.

Late last week, the New Orleans-based appeals court narrowed most of that injunction but ordered the White House, the FBI and top health officials not to "coerce or significantly encourage" social media companies to remove content the Biden administration considers to be misinformation.

Prelogar's filing Thursday said the government's request concerned "an unprecedented injunction" that "flouts bedrock principles of Article III, the First Amendment, and equity."

"The implications of the Fifth Circuits holdings are startling," Prelogar wrote. "The court imposed unprecedented limits on the ability of the Presidents closest aides to use the bully pulpit to address matters of public concern, on the FBIs ability to address threats to the Nations security, and on the CDCs ability to relay public health information at platforms request."

Prelogar argued that the original injunction is "vastly overbroad," saying that "it covers thousands of federal officers and employees, and it applies to communications with and about all social media platforms" regarding content moderation on such topics as national security and criminal matters.

If allowed to take effect, the injunction would impose grave and irreparable harms on the government and the public, she warned. Prelogar said the Justice Department intends to ask the court by Oct. 13 to review the case, adding that the court could take Thursday's filing as such a request to expedite matters without the need for further briefings.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
ATHENS (Reuters) - Survivors of a migrant shipwreck off Greece in June, in which hundreds died, filed a lawsuit against the Greek authorities on Thursday, accusing them of violating their duty to protect the lives of the people on board the vessel.

The overcrowded fishing trawler said to be carrying between 400-750 people from Pakistan, Syria and Egypt sank in international waters off Greece on its way to Italy from Libya. Some 104 men survived and authorities recovered only 82 bodies.

Survivors have recounted hellish conditions above and below deck, with no food or water and a disastrous attempt by the Greek coast guard to tow the vessel which capsized, according to interviews and evidence seen by Reuters.

The Greek coastguard and government have said they were monitoring the vessel for hours and no attempt was made to tow the boat which overturned when the coastguard was about 70 metres away.

A judicial investigation into the causes of the disaster is under way and could take more than a year to be completed.

On Thursday, 40 survivors filed a lawsuit complaining that "Greek authorities failed to intervene immediately and organize an appropriate operation in time to rescue those on board," a statement by the Hellenic Leage for Human Rights, one of their representatives, said.

They say the vessel was "clearly unseaworthy" and also call for "an immediate, thorough and credible investigation" into the causes of the deadliest boat disaster in the Mediterranean in recent years.

Lawyers representing families of the missing have filed a request to judicial authorities investigating the case for the boat to be retrieved.

(Reporting by Renee Maltezou, Editing by William Maclean)
GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WJW)  Police in Gainesville, Florida, have arrested a suspect who stole a large excavator and crashed it into a Walmart.

The suspect had also drove through a separate storage unit with the excavator, and took out multiple utility poles before crashing the construction vehicle into the Walmart, according to a Facebook post from the Gainesville Police Department.

The incident took place Sept. 11, officials said. No one was injured.

(Gainesville Police Department)

(Gainesville Police Department)

Police identified the suspect as 47-year-old Jesse Charles Smith, saying Smith had hotwired the excavator after finding it at a nearby construction site, local news outlet WUFT reported.

The outlet, citing police, said the suspect also entered the Walmart carrying a machete after crashing through one of the buildings walls.

WATCH: Good Samaritan rescues driver from burning car after crash into Florida building

Smith has been charged with grand theft, criminal mischief, armed trespassing and resisting arrest without violence, WUFT reported.

The suspect is currently being held at a Gainesville jail ahead of his trial, inmate records from Alachua County show.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com.
More than two hundred National Guard members are now in Massachusetts assisting migrant families.

In Sutton, about 50 migrant families will really need their help after a fire broke out in the hotel they were staying in.

Just a week ago, State Senator Ryan Fattman warned the state about safety concerns about the hotel. Some include past drug and other criminal activity here, emergency phone systems not in complianceand its an isolated area. Migrants must cross six lanes of busy highway traffic to get to the grocery store.

Firefighters responded to the Red Roof Inn on Rte.146 in Sutton Wednesday afternoon for a fire. One person was treated for smoke inhalation. There were 50 migrant families staying there.

Senator Fattman sent a letter to the Commonwealth with a series of safety concerns on September 7th. At the same time, the Sutton Police Department confirmed the Red Roof Inns emergency telephone system was not in compliance with state regulations.

The senator says its been deemed a high crime area saying, This location is documented as high risk for drug trafficking, prostitution, weapons, and dangerous criminal offenses. In the past year, two level-three sex offenders habituated and/or were arrested at the dwelling where 21 migrant children now reside.

The senator added the town was notified after business hours, on Friday, August 25 that 50 families would be arriving at the hotel two days later. The town has stepped up to provide services, but Senator Fattman wants to know why migrants were sent there with so many safety concerns.

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
FILE - King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia ride in a horse-drawn carriage from the Royal Palace to Skansen for the National Day celebrations in Stockholm, Sweden, Tuesday June 6, 2023. Sweden this week marks the 50th anniversary of King Carl XVI Gustafs accession to the throne with four days of celebrations that culminate with a military parade through the capital. (Jonas Ekstromer/TT via AP, File)

STOCKHOLM (AP)  Sweden this week marks the 50th anniversary of King Carl XVI Gustaf s accession to the throne with four days of celebrations that culminate with a military parade through the capital.

The scale of the golden jubilee may not reach the levels of royal anniversaries in Britain, but its still a rare chance for the monarchy to fete itself with pomp and ceremony in the egalitarian Scandinavian country.

Carl Gustaf, 77, is the first king in the Swedish monarchys more than 1,000-year history to reach 50 years on the throne. And following the death of Queen Elizabeth II last year, hes the second-longest reigning European monarch alive today, after his cousin Queen Margrethe II, who celebrated her 50th anniversary on Denmarks throne last year.

Margrethe and King Harald V of Norway are among the dignitaries on the guest list for the jubilee events, which include an opera performance at Drottningholm Palace outside Stockholm, the residence of the king and his wife, Queen Silvia ; a church service at the Royal Palace in Stockholm; royal salutes; banquets and a televised speech to the nation by the king. On Saturday the king and queen will ride in a horse-drawn carriage through downtown Stockholm along with 3,000 servicemen and women from the Swedish Army, Navy and Air Force.

Security is expected to be tight after Sweden raised its terror alert to the second-highest level following a string of public desecrations of the Quran that sparked angry demonstrations across Muslim countries and threats from militant groups.

Like in neighboring Scandinavian countries, the Swedish monarch has a ceremonial role as the head of state but no political power. Many Swedes also regard him as a symbol of the nation and unifying figure during times of crisis.

I think that what mostly stands out for Swedes is the way he has sort of held the country together in times of unrest and when we have gone through difficult times, royal watcher Roger Lundgren said, pointing to the 1986 murder of Prime Minister Olof Palme and the December 2004 tsunami in South East Asia which killed more than 500 vacationing Swedes.

More recently, Carl Gustaf uncharacteristically spoke out against Swedish authorities handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying the country failed to protect the elderly in care homes. Sweden stood out for its pandemic strategy, which was largely based on voluntary measures rather than mandatory lockdowns.

Carl Gustaf was 27 when he ascended the throne on Sept. 15, 1973, upon the death of his grandfather, King Gustaf VI Adolf . Carl Gustaf was first in line to the throne because his own father died in a plane crash when he was an infant.

Years later, the king spoke of his sense of loss during a memorial service to victims of the tsunami.

Many children have lost one or both of their parents, he said. "I think I know what that means. I have been such a child myself."

The royal family remains popular in Sweden, despite occasional scandals in the tabloid press surrounding the kings private life. Polls show a clear majority of Swedes are in favor retaining the monarchy, even though critics call it an anachronism that doesn't belong in a modern democratic society.

The king and queen have three children, Crown Princess Victoria, Prince Carl Philip and Princess Madeleine. As the eldest sibling, Victoria jumped ahead of Carl Philip in the line of succession when Sweden in 1980 decided that the monarchs eldest child, rather than the eldest male child, should inherit the throne.

Carl Gustaf made headlines in January this year when he appeared to suggest that the change in the succession rules had been unfair to Carl Philip. He backtracked in a statement issued by the palace a few days later, saying it pains me deeply when, in retrospect, I read comments that suggest that I would not stand behind my daughter, Crown Princess Victoria, as Swedens heir to the throne.

Carl Gustaf may be Sweden's last male monarch for a while as Victoria's first-born child was also a girl. Princess Estelle, now 11, is second in line to the throne, behind her mother.



Olsen reported from Copenhagen, Denmark. Associated Press video journalist David Keyton in Stockholm contributed to this report.
SAN DIEGO  A swimmer wearing fins and a wetsuit was rescued near the Ocean Beach Pier Thursday morning, said the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

San Diego Lifeguards received a call from an individual around 5:40 a.m. who stated they were on the pier and that there was a woman in the water who needed help.

Man hit by Amtrak train in San Diego dies

Shortly after the call, SDFD says lifeguards responded with a rescue boat and lifeguards on land. The rescue boat located the woman and brought her to the lifeguard headquarters dock.

The woman, whos described to be in her 30s, was transported by ambulance to Scripps Mercy Hospital. She reportedly told the lifeguards that she had been in the water all night.

Her condition is unknown at this time.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
TAIPEI (Reuters) - Taiwan is "not for sale", the island's foreign minister said in a stern rebuke to Elon Musk who asserted Taiwan was an integral part of China, as the billionaire again waded into the thorny issue of relations between Beijing and Taipei.

Musk, the owner of the social media platform X formerly known as Twitter, as well as the Tesla electric car company and Starlink satellite network, made the comments to the All-In Summit in Los Angeles uploaded to YouTube this week.

"Their (Beijing's) policy has been to reunite Taiwan with China. From their standpoint, maybe it is analogous to Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China mostly because ... the U.S. Pacific Fleet has stopped any sort of reunification effort by force," he said.

Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, in a post on X late Wednesday, responded that he hoped Musk could ask China to "open @X to its people". China blocks X, along with other major Western social media like Facebook.

"Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off @Starlink to thwart Ukraine's counterstrike against Russia," Wu added, referring to Musk's refusing a Ukrainian request to activate his Starlink satellite network in Crimea's port city of Sevastopol last year to aid an attack on Russia's fleet there.

"Listen up, Taiwan is not part of the PRC & certainly not for sale!" Wu said, using the acronym for the People's Republic of China.

Taiwan's democratically elected government strongly rejects China's sovereignty claims, and says only Taiwan's people can decide their future.

This is not the first time Musk, whose Tesla had a large factory in Shanghai, has riled Taiwan.

Last October, he suggested that tensions between China and Taiwan could be resolved by handing over some control of Taiwan to Beijing, drawing a similarly strong reprimand from Taiwan.

(This story has been refiled to add the dropped word 'of' in paragraph 1)

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Stephen Coates)
UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- UN humanitarians and partners issued a flash appeal worth 71.4 million U.S. dollars on Thursday to meet the urgent needs of Libyans suffering from devastating floods.

The funds are for 250,000 people targeted out of the 884,000 people estimated to be in need over the next three months, said the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). The flash appeal may be updated once additional information becomes available.

The hardest-hit areas include Derna, Albayda, Soussa, Al-Marj, Shahat, Taknis, Battah, Tolmeita, Bersis, Tokra, and Al-Abyar, OCHA said. Displaced victims shelter in schools and hotels.

The humanitarians reported that Albayda's hospital, which serves the entire Green Mountain region, was flooded, which forced the evacuation of intensive care unit patients to private hospitals and clinics and relocated other patients elsewhere in the facility.

UN Undersecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths said the scale of the flood disaster is shocking, with entire neighborhoods wiped off the map and whole families, taken by surprise, swept away in the deluge of water.

Griffiths said that all hands are on deck to get as much help and support to people as possible, adding that the United Nations deployed a robust team to support and resource the international response in coordination with first responders and Libya's authorities.

Libya's UN ambassador Taher El-Sonni said Thursday that he has been meeting with UN officials on delivering relief, a matter feared complicated by politics.

In recent years, the country has been divided between the internationally recognized government in Tripoli, representing the western part, and the Benghazi faction, representing the eastern portion, where the devastation occurred.

"There is a lot of support from all around Libya, despite the challenge of this unfortunate incident," El-Sonni told reporters. "But, it has shown the real material of Libyans where they all came together to rally and support those who are affected. So, at this stage, we need the support of the international community. We need the support of the UN agencies."

He said the fatalities have reached 6,000 people, but quickly added, "I cannot really confirm the final numbers. But it's really on a high magnitude, and I'm afraid that we'll hear really large numbers, even more than what has been confirmed so far." 
[Source]

Taiwans Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly rejected Elon Musk 's assertion that Taiwan is an integral part of China.

Musks comments: During the recent All-In Summit in Los Angeles, Musk said that Chinas policy has been to reunite Taiwan with China. From their standpoint, maybe it is analogous to Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China."

I think I understand China well, the Tesla chief executive added. Ive been there many times and have met with senior leadership at many levels ... for many years. I think Ive got a pretty good understanding as an outsider of China.

More from NextShark: Never-before-seen footage of The Beatles' 1966 tour of Japan released by Tokyo police

Taiwans response: Taiwan, which has governed itself since 1949, is viewed by Beijing as part of its territory. Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Wu called out Musk on X, formerly Twitter, emphasizing that Taiwan is not part of the [Peoples Republic of China] and certainly not for sale!

Wu also urged Musk to ask the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to allow access to X for Chinese citizens, highlighting Musk's past involvement in limiting access to services during international conflicts.

Hope Elon Musk can also ask the CCP to open X to its people. Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off Starlink to thwart Ukraines counterstrike against Russia, Wu tweeted.

More from NextShark: NY State Senator John Liu Witnesses Police Charge at Protesters for No Apparent Reason

Hope @elonmusk can also ask the #CCP to open @X to its people. Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off @Starlink to thwart #Ukraines counterstrike against #Russia. Listen up, #Taiwan is not part of the #PRC & certainly not for sale! JW https://t.co/HEhyTYYXFp   Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ROC (Taiwan)  (@MOFA_Taiwan) September 13, 2023



Musk's previous Taiwan comment: This is not the first time Musk has caused controversy regarding Taiwan. He previously suggested Beijing should have some control over Taiwan's affairs to resolve tensions, drawing rebuke from Taiwan.

More from NextShark: Humans almost went extinct about a million years ago, according to new Chinese study

Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark!

Man charged with hate crimes after multiple anti-Muslim attacks in NYC
Taiwans Foreign Minister Joseph Wu criticized Elon Musk on Thursday for comments the tech billionaire made suggesting the island was still part of China.

Musk, who spoke remotely at the All-in Summit that took place this week in Los Angeles, said Beijings policy has been to reunite Taiwan and China. He added he has a pretty good understanding, at least as an outsider, of China.

From their standpoint, you know, maybe its analogous to like Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China mostly because  the U.S. Pacific Fleet has stopped any sort of reunification by force, he added.

Taiwan is a democratic island that China has long claimed as part of its territory. Hawaii, on the other hand, has been an official U.S. state since 1959.

Wu took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to call out Musk for his comments.

Listen up, Taiwan is not part of the [Peoples Republic of China] & certainly not for sale! Wu posted on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs account.

The Taiwanese foreign minister added that he hopes Musk can also ask the Chinese Communist Party to allow its people to use X  which the Tesla CEO purchased in October 2022.

Social media platforms, including X, are censored in mainland China by authorities.

Musk has not masked his relationship with China  even traveling earlier this year to Shanghai to meet with officials and tour his Tesla factory in the city.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
[Source]

Japanese artist Takashi Murakami, renowned for his anime-inspired art, is holding his first-ever solo exhibition in San Francisco, titled "Takashi Murakami: Unfamiliar PeopleSwelling of Monsterized Human Ego."

Unleashing the monsters: The highly anticipated exhibition, which reportedly took five years to complete, will open on Sept. 15 at the Asian Art Museum and will run until Feb. 12, 2024. It features over 75 of Murakami's iconic monster artworks, including a dozen never-before-seen pieces.

Murakami's artistic journey: The 61-year-old artist shared at a recent press conference how his art is heavily influenced by his early fascination with externalized monsters, like Godzilla and comic book villains, adding that his work is an exploration of the "monsterization" of humanity in the digital age and the pandemic era. His childhood experiences during times of global conflict, such as the Vietnam and Cold Wars, and his parents' experiences in World War II, inspired his curiosity about humanity's self-destructive tendencies.

More from NextShark: Japans Yoshimi Yamashita among first-ever women referees for mens Asian Cup

"Chaos is the norm, he was quoted saying. I am most scared of the ego, the inner struggles that can't be suppressed."

Ode to Asian Art Museum: Murakami's exhibition will also serve as a tribute to the Asian Art Museum itself. Several pieces were tailored to the museum's unique dimensions, and some, like "Lidded Jar with Design of a Lotus Pond," drew inspiration from the museum's own collection.

The centerpiece of the show, a colossal 83-foot-long painting titled "Judgement Day," represents a departure from Murakami's earlier work, blending Japanese woodblock print influences with intricate, tangled figures and historical symbolism.

More from NextShark: Malaysian students invent device that makes ocean water drinkable for sea nomads

Of flowers and fishes: The exhibition also includes a room adorned with Murakami's trademark smiling flowers, creating a vibrant and immersive experience.

Visitors will also have the chance to admire a set of blue-and-white fish paintings inspired by Ming dynasty porcelain, a project that Murakami embarked on over three decades ago.

Mixing the traditional and contemporary: Murakamis unique blend of traditional and contemporary influences promises an unforgettable journey through the artist's multifaceted career. In a recent YouTube video, Murakami reflected on the ever-changing digital landscape and its effect on art.

"Now, in 2023, is a big breakthrough here because [of] AI, if I am not touching for the AI, so in the near future I have to quit this world because this is a new theory, new language, new grammarI want to follow. You are young, you know, movement. I want to survive."
UAW President Shawn Fain has emphasized in recent weeks not only solidarity among his 150,000 or so members negotiating a four-year contract with the Detroit Three, but also support from the powerful Teamsters.

He has said repeatedly that 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 14 is "a deadline, not a reference point."

UAW members won't be the only ones responding to that deadline, Fain has said.

Truck drivers who haul vehicles plan to stand with UAW members if they strike, which means not delivering vehicles for Ford Motor Co., General Motors or Stellantis-owned Jeep, Ram, Chrysler, Dodge and Fiat.

"We are 100% supportive of UAW workers and Shawn Fain's positions," said Kevin Moore, president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 299, home of James R. Hoffa in Detroit, which represents 5,000 members and most freight car haulers. "Our Teamsters will not cross strike lines."

Fain and Moore, a third generation Teamster, spoke at the Labor Day parade in Detroit. Moore's wife Kathy is a member of UAW Local 245 Research and Engineering in prototype engines. She has worked at Ford 40 years.

"I understand their struggles and their issues," Kevin Moore told the Detroit Free Press. "I understand the membership of the UAW, and their really strong feelings about fighting for second-tier workers who make $11 an hour less than the full-time workers. This has been going on for years. You have a person working side-by-side with someone earning $11 an hour less than Tier 1 employees. I understand trying to bring parity to that work group."

Moore, in Grand Rapids this week attending a statewide meeting, is also president of Michigan Joint Council #43 that encompasses all locals in the state or 35,000 Teamsters. Michigan has an additional 200,000 Teamsters retirees. The Teamsters are on standby to respond at a moment's notice to a UAW strike, he said.

"What good is it for us to deliver goods and services to companies when they have workers fighting for their pay and their conditions?" Moore said. "We have to show support."

Health care:GM dumped health care for striking UAW workers in 2019. That poured gas on fire, expert says

Since Moore has run Local 299 for 24 years, he said he knows just about every Teamster local leader in the country. And they represent a membership of 1.4 million, he said.

Detroit Teamsters are on standby, Moore said. "The Tier 1 workers are fighting for the Tier 2 workers. This is about fairness."

In addition to driving trucks, Teamsters work in warehousing, operating and repairing ferries and building ships. The Teamsters ratified last month a five-year contract for more than 340,000 UPS workers, raising wages for full- and part-time employees.

2019 strike:GM UAW strike in 2019 was surprising modern test of the power of workers versus corporations

The scope of support for the UAW also includes the United Steelworkers, AFL-CIO, Service Employees International (SEIU), Starbucks Workers United, American Federation of Teachers (AFT), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and CWA (Communications Workers of America).

During the UAW strike against GM in 2019 that lasted 40 days, teachers and nurses and members of other unions brought food and drinks to the picket line and union halls around the clock. Strike lines operate on scheduled shifts through the night, until a tentative contract is reached.

A friend to many:Fred Tanari, 'magician' who transformed Detroit auto show, dies

Contact Phoebe Wall Howard: 313-618-1034 or phoward@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @phoebesaid. Read more of her stories here.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Teamsters won't deliver Detroit 3 vehicles if UAW strikes
Berkeley was the site of a melee Tuesday evening after tenants rights protesters interrupted a property owners' celebration of the end of local pandemic eviction moratoriums. (Josh Edelson / For the Times)

Dozens of protesters and tenants rights activists crashed a party by Berkeley landlords celebrating the end of an eviction moratorium, a clash that resulted in fist fights, thrown chairs and hurled food on the patio of a trendy gastro pub.

City police were at the scene Tuesday for what began as a protest outside the Freehouse restaurant and pub in Berkeley's Southside neighborhood. Inside the pub, members of the Berkeley Property Owners Assn. were holding a social mixer to celebrate the end of the local eviction moratorium. Plans for the event were first publicized by the independent news outlet Berkleyside.

Like many cities across the country, Berkeley instituted an eviction moratorium in March 2020 due to the economic hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic. The city's moratorium expired on Aug. 31, allowing landlords to resume evictions for nonpayment of rent due Sept. 1, according to the Berkeley Rent Board.

The end of the moratorium came to a boil outside the mixer.

The Berkeley Police Department said approximately 50 to 60 protesters gathered in front of the pub, where they chanted, beat drums and held signs and banners. Multiple people entering the restaurant were met by protesters yelling "Get a job" and "Parasite," the Berkeleyside reported.

Read more: Even the least expensive areas of California are becoming less affordable, and more desirable

The protest started shortly after 5 p.m., and later in the evening a group of protesters walked into the Freehouse, where numerous fights broke out, according to police.

Officers outside the pub were not aware of the fights inside, the department said in a statement, and no one on the scene requested medical assistance for any injuries or alerted the police.

Several members of the property owners association alleged that they were attacked by protesters from the Berkeley Tenants Union and the Bay Area chapter of the Tenant and Neighborhood Councils, though it is unclear who got physical first.

The Berkeley Property Owners Assn. accused protesters of throwing food, chairs and then punches after they entered the restaurant and then confronted its members on an outdoor patio.

In a video clip reviewed by The Times, an apparent protester is seen using a utensil to hurl food at someone off camera. After a man attempts to pull the utensil away, the protester punches him in the head.

According to the Tenant and Neighborhood Councils, or TANC, members of the property owners association "were quick to anger, attacking tenants unprovoked."

"We stand with our members who were assaulted by landlords, just as we stand with any tenant facing eviction," the group said in a statement. "We are not surprised by [the Property Owners Assn.'s] behavior."

After the protesters left, someone reported they had been attacked and filed a police report, according to Berkeley police. The incident is under investigation.

The tenant protesters called the property owners' mixer "incredibly cruel" and said the celebration could not go on "without a rebuttal from the tenants," TANC said in an Instagram post.

Read more: Over 40,000 eviction notices have gone out in L.A. this year, many to upscale apartments

The Berkeley Property Owners Assn., a trade group with more than 750 members, also said that members had been harassed after the protest, with threatening calls and social media posts against members and their businesses. One member said they had contacted police during the protest and that an officer refused to intervene because the situation was political, according to a statement from the trade group.

"We condemn the actions of hostile dissidents who disrupted a private gathering at a local restaurant to intimidate, harass, and physically assault our members who are law-abiding small business owners. Their protest planning included language celebrating mass killing of landlords, celebrations by guillotine, and references to landlords as parasites," the Berkeley Property Owners Assn. said in a statement posted online.

Becky Warren, a spokesperson for the Property Owners Assn., said the group admits that it was a mistake to center the mixer around the end of the eviction moratorium.

"They were not intending it to be a celebration, but more of a gathering," Warren said when reached by phone.

Several landlords were relieved they could start collecting rent again, because it was their main source of income, Warren said.

"No property owner ever wants to evict anyone," she said.

In a statement posted on Wednesday to the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, the Tenant and Neighborhood Councils said the property owners' decision to celebrate the end of the moratorium "reflects their contempt for tenants."

"Yes, we disrupted the Berkeley landlords' vicious 'celebration' of the resumption of evictions," the tenant union said. "The crisis of high rents and homelessness is a direct effect of their business model. We stand by our action and we stand with all tenants facing evictions."

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Shooting deaths in Tennessee have been rising for nearly a decade, and recent studies show the state reached historic highs in 2021, with more than 1,500 Tennesseans killed by gunfire.

The number of deaths that year marked a grim statistic, putting Tennessee at 10th in the nation for firearm mortality per capita, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Davidson County has 16th highest gun-related deaths in US, study finds

The death rate is calculated per 100,000 total population, with Mississippi at number one for gun-related deaths in 2021 and Massachusetts at the bottom of the list. Like Tennessee, most states in the top 10 were in the southern United States.

A study by the Sycamore Institute found that Tennessees death rate grew over 66% between 2011 and 2021, largely due to a spike in homicides, which accounted for 46% of firearms deaths in 2021. That adds up to an additional 623 deaths each year.

Just over half of firearm deaths in 2021 were suicides, but according to the Sycamore Institute, homicides accounted for the most deaths among people aged 35 years and younger and Black Tennesseans.

The rate of homicides involving guns also doubled between 2011 and 2021. Meanwhile, the Sycamore Institutes study showed that fatal crimes where another means of force was used actually fell by 5% during that period.

Guns leading cause of death among Tennessee kids, report finds

Overall, Tennessees shooting death rate in 2021 was nearly 50% higher than the country as a whole. That year, gunfire was also the 10th leading cause of death in Tennessee. Infectious diseases, Alzheimers and cancer all ranked above gunfire, with over 18,000 people killed by the number one leading cause of death: heart disease.

While firearm deaths were less frequent among minors than any other age group, gunfire remained the leading cause of death for Tennesseans ages 1 to 18 in 2021. Those deaths were largely concentrated among teens aged 15 to 18.

According to the Sycamore Institute, gunfire overtook car crashes as the leading cause of death among Tennessees children in 2017. A study conducted by the Tennessee Department of Health found guns were still the leading cause of death among kids in 2022.

By race, Black women and men experienced the largest increase in firearm deaths in Tennessee, with Black women being killed at a rate nearly 196% higher than in 2011. The overall rate of firearm deaths among Black Tennesseans was three times higher than other races.

Monroe Carell Jr. Childrens Hospital seeing more and more firearm injuries, deaths

The majority of firearm deaths in Tennessee happened in the states most populous counties, but the counties with the highest rates were largely concentrated in the western part of the state.

Among the top two were Shelby County with 2,627 firearm deaths and Davidson County with 1,171 deaths. Altogether, almost half, or 43%, of the states shooting deaths happened in the four largest counties  Shelby, Davidson, Knox and Hamilton.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
The Tennessee State University Board of Trustees unanimously approved the first steps in the search for a new president on Thursday.

This summer, current President Glenda Glover announced she would retire at the end of the 2023-24 school year.

The board's executive committee will lead the search and hold a meeting to establish the search process, a timeline and qualifications for the president's position. While it's not clear when the first meeting will be, it will happen before Oct. 21, according to board materials. The timeline for the search will be finalized after that meeting.

Board Chair Deborah Cole can also appoint additional members to the search committee including faculty, staff, students, alumni and other members of the community. The board can also retain a search firm in the process.

Tennessee State University President Glenda Glover delivers remarks during the Tennessee State University graduation ceremony at Tennessee State University Saturday, May 7, 2022, in Nashville, Tenn.

Glover, a TSU graduate, has led the historically Black university for the last decade.

"Serving as president of Tennessee State University has been the honor of a lifetime," Glover said during an Aug. 14 news conference on campus. "This is where I got my start. I came to Tennessee State University, graduated in 1974. From 1974 to 2024, a 50-year blessing. And now it's only appropriate that I announce my retirement from the place that gave me my start."

Glover, who is now 70, said her voice is needed on a "more national platform." She did not expound on what's next for her.

"My skillset, leadership, voice is needed now much more than ever as we fight to protect access and equity," she said.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee State University approves first steps in presidential search
Tens of thousands of Kaiser Permanente workers have voted to authorize a strike if no agreement is reached with their unions by the end of September, union officials announced Thursday.

SEIU United Healthcare Workers West said nearly 60,000 workers in California had approved a possible strike, teeing up what could be the biggest strike by healthcare workers in U.S. history. Its members include nursing assistants, housekeepers, phlebotomists and medical assistants.

Unions representing additional Kaiser workers in Colorado, Oregon and Washington have also announced the same decision, with some unionized workers at Kaiser facilities still voting through next Wednesday.

No strike would occur before October, after the contract expires for more than 85,000 Kaiser Permanente workers whose unions have formed a coalition. Their absence would be significant: The Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions said it represents roughly 40% of the overall Kaiser Permanente workforce.

Read more: Tens of thousands of Kaiser healthcare workers to vote on possible strike

Union leaders have complained about understaffing, saying that it can lead to alarmingly long wait times for patients, said management proposals on wages and workforce development would only worsen the staffing crisis, and argued that the health system had not bargained with them in good faith.

SEIU-UHW President Dave Regan said that workers "have overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike because we will not simply stand by as Kaiser violates the law and puts patients at risk."

Kaiser Permanente said in a statement Thursday that it was confident that it would soon reach an agreement "that strengthens our position as a best place to work and ensures that the high-quality care our members expect from us remains affordable and easy to access."

It called the vote to authorize a strike "a disappointing action considering our progress at the bargaining table" and disputed union claims about its proposals, saying that it was offering wage increases and has been aggressively recruiting to fill positions.

More bargaining sessions are scheduled for next week.

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
JERUSALEM, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Israeli military announced Thursday it will impose a three-day total closure on Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip during the upcoming Jewish New Year holiday, starting on Friday.

The closure, which follows "an instruction by the political echelon," will begin right after midnight Friday and will be lifted before midnight Sunday, according to a statement released by the military.

During the closure, all the checkpoints and crossings connecting Israel and the West Bank and the Gaza Strip will be shut down, pending a situational assessment, the military said.

"Passing would be possible only for exceptional humanitarian and medical cases and under the approval of the coordinator of the government's actions in the (Palestinian) territories," it added.

The move comes amid escalating tensions between Israelis and Palestinians in the West Bank.

Israel often imposes full closures on the West Bank and Gaza Strip, territories it captured in the 1967 Middle East war, during Jewish holidays, citing security reasons. 
The Texas Congressional Delegation, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, the State Department, the Pentagon and the Embassy of China all held meetings with a particular group visiting Washington this week. The groups members were not international geopolitical power brokers yet  they were the top students at International Leadership of Texas (ILTexas), a charter school with 23,000 students across 22 campuses.

The school teaches its students Mandarin Chinese and Spanish on top of the regular curriculum, part of an attempt to forge global leaders with Texas roots.

The economic, the cultural connection between Texas and Mexico is extremely important. When we started the school at the time, all of the commerce flying into the Dallas Fort Worth airport, the highest dollar value was between Texas and China, said Eddie Conger, the schools superintendent and founder.

So why wouldnt we create a system where our kids are learning the language and learning the culture for us to be stronger Americans?

Conger, a former Marine infantry officer, schoolteacher and principal, started ILTexas in 2012 aiming to prepare students for public service with a global perspective; the schools motto is Others Before Self.

On the global stage, the logical focus was on China, but Conger said Texass ties to Mexico were not lost on him.

Texas, you know, theres a pretty big country just south of Texas, he said.

Since the schools foundation, Mexico has surpassed China as the United Statess top trading partner, in part because of the pandemic, and in part because of the USMCA partners two-way trade that contrasts with the large trade deficit across the Pacific Ocean.

And for many of ILTexass students, theres a personal connection.

Just like Texas, about 50 percent of our students are Hispanic. We have a larger share of African Americans; about 30 percent are African American. Then the remaining is some white, with some Asian students, as well, Conger said.

So I would say for the most part, looks like Texas.

The top 3 percent of students were recruited for this weeks Washington trip, where they bridged a diplomatic gap not often traversed in Washington, meeting both with U.S. national security officials and Chinese officials.

What Ive asked both sides is: Why is this charter school having to be the one to fill the gap? Conger said.

Because when Im in China, and I talk with folks in the Ministry of Education there, they keep saying it is important for people-to-people cultural, the cultural language exchange. When Im at the U.S. State Department, thats exactly what they say.

Though only the top 3 percent of students got to experience a taste of high-stakes cultural diplomacy, Conger touted ILTexass success rate overall, adding that some challenges remain.

One hundred percent of graduates have received an acceptance to a four-year degree. What were still struggling with is getting all of the kids who have that four-year college acceptance, to get them there.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
In July, Texas Mitchell County passed a measure to make it illegal for someone seeking abortion to travel on a road running through the county. This week, one of the four county commissioners who unanimously voted to adopt the policy called it unenforceable to Rolling Stone.

The ordinance, crafted by the architects of Texas SB8 law (the abortion ban that allows people to sue anyone who helped someone get an abortion for at least $10,000), uses SB8s same enforcement policy via private lawsuits. It makes it illegal to knowingly transport any individual for the purpose of providing or obtaining an elective abortion if ones travel to an abortion clinic begins, ends, or passes through the county, framing this as abortion trafficking.

Read more

Republicansand Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaughclaimed for years that sans Roe v. Wade, people could simply travel across state lines for abortion care. No state has banned interstate travel for adult women seeking to obtain an abortion, Oklahoma Sen. James Lankord (R) said on the Senate floor in July 2022, when Democrats introduced legislation to protect a womans right to travel for an abortion. This seems to be just trying to inflame, to raise what-ifs.

Of course, months later, Idaho became the first state to criminalize abortion-related travel, specifically for minors. In July, nearly two dozen state attorneys general signed a letter stating they have a right to access the medical information of their residents who travel for abortion. And just a couple of weeks ago, Alabamas attorney general called helping people travel for abortion a criminal conspiracy.

To Jones point, the ordinances clearly violate individuals right to travel freely, and determining whos traveling where and for what on Mitchell Countys roads at any given moment is a tall task. But there may still be some legal threat: The surveillance apparatuses that could hypothetically track peoples travel across state lines to abortion clinics existnamely through increasingly prevalent automated license plate readers. Should an anti-abortion state or county be doggedly determined enough to build a case against an abortion seeker, they could try to obtain data collected by these readers. And theres little legislation to regulate this: In California earlier this year, a sheriff was exposed for sharing license plate reader data with state governments that ban abortion, per the Electronic Frontier Foundation, though its not clear what the data was used for. In June, Illinoiss Democratic governor signed a law to prohibit the sharing or transfer of license plate data in a move that was widely praised by advocates in the state.

That said, abortion rights advocates have argued the enforceability of these increasingly wild policies is only secondary: The purpose of these laws is not to meaningfully enforce them, Neesha Dave, executive director of the Lilith Fund for abortion access in Texas, told The Washington Post earlier this month. Its the fear thats the point. Its the confusion thats the point.

More from Jezebel

Sign up for Jezebel's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.
A Black student in Mont Belvieu, Texas has been suspended from his high school for over a week due to his hairstyle.

In a conversation with CNN, Darrel Georges mother, Darresha George, shared that the suspension was because the school claimed it violated the districts dress code. Barbers Hill High School allegedly wrote Darrel up several times and placed him on in-school suspension before making the decision to suspend him.

Suspension and the CROWN Act

George explained to the outlet that her son has not been doing well because of the schools decision to suspend him.

Hes very anxious, very aggravated right now because he keeps getting punished for something thats irrelevant to his education, she shared.

Darrels hair allegedly violated the length provisions for students hair. They are not allowed to wear hairstyles that extend past the ears or eyebrows.

The policy also states, Male students hair must not extend below the top of a t-shirt collar or be gathered or worn in a style that would allow the hair to extend below the top of a t-shirt collar, below the eyebrows, or below the ear lobes when let down.

According to his mother, school officials reprimanded Darrel for his jeans which were out of the dress code but was then told that he would have to cut his hair. When he did not cut his hair, he was placed on in-school suspension.

George added that her family was told if Darrel doesnt cut his hair by the end of the week, he faces the possibility of being placed in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program.

I want to see their policy change and stop being discriminatory against Black kids, George said. I want to see my son out of ISS (in-school suspension). I dont want any other child thats coming behind my son to go through this again.

Darrels suspension came the same week that the CROWN Act went into effect statewide. When informing the school that she believed her sons suspension was in violation of the new law, officials told her that the schools length rule does not violate it. The George family has hired a lawyer and is considering taking legal action.

The post Texas Teen Suspended Due To Locs, After State Passes CROWN Act appeared first on 21Ninety.
The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) made two grant awards presentations to a local business and schools on Thursday.

TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Trevino III was scheduled to present a ceremonial check at Plains Dairy, LLC at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 14. According to a news release, TWC awarded a $154,985 Skills Development Fund grant to Workforce Solutions Panhandle. The funds will be used to upskill 127 employees of Plains Dairy, LLC with industry-relevant training in manufacturing, merchandising, forklift operations, transportation, food safety, and more.

The Skills Development Fund is the state's workforce training grant program to help businesses upskill their new or incumbent workforce, the release says: "In partnership with the public community and technical colleges, local workforce development boards, and Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, TWC collaborates to provide customized, innovative training for Texas businesses of all sizes."

Dr. Tamara Clunis, vice president of academic affairs at Amarillo College, is presented with a JET Grant by Alberto Trevino, commisioner of the Texas Workforce Commission, Sept. 14 in Borger.

Then at 3 p.m., Trevino III was scheduled to present multiple ceremonial checks at Frank Phillips College. TWC said it has awarded four Jobs and Education for Texans grants to support career training at four educational institutions in the Panhandle:

Frank Phillips College received $212,515 for equipment to train 50 students as diesel mechanic specialists;

Amarillo College received $346,340 to train 80 students as industrial machinery mechanics;

Perryton Independent School District (ISD) received $232,225 to train 141 students as welders in partnership with Frank Phillips College; and

Sunray ISD received $172,810 to train 50 students as welders in partnership with Amarillo College.

According to Amarillo College (AC), Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Tamara Clunis was there to accept the grant for AC.

Through funding provided by the state Legislature each biennium, TWC uses Jobs and Education for Texans grants to "defray start-up costs of developing career and technical education programs for public community, state and technical colleges, school districts and charter schools," a release notes. Equipment funded through these grants must be used to train students for jobs in high-demand occupations.

The grant "positions AC to acquire cutting-edge equipment essential to the redesign of its Industrial Technology program into an Advanced Manufacturing pathway that includes a specialization in automation," a news release said. David Hall, dean of technical education, said AC will use its JET funds to adopt an industry-driven curriculum and purchase state-of-the-art training equipment to support the Colleges redesign efforts, which already are underway.

In the Texas Panhandle, increasing our regions capabilities related to Advanced Manufacturing has quickly become an imperative, Hall said in the release. As technology advances, Industry 4.0 concepts such as automated systems, Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and connected systems are becoming more prevalent with our industry partners.

And in addition to the existing labor market demand for these skills, he said, Amarillo is attracting new employers to the area that will further increase demand for industrial machinery mechanics with skills in automation.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Texas Workforce Commission awards grants to dairy, schools, colleges
People pleasing, catastrophizing and seeking external reassurance are all contributing to your feelings of anxiety.

People pleasing, catastrophizing and seeking external reassurance are all contributing to your feelings of anxiety.

Anxiety is a very normal but a very unwelcome feeling. Most of us would choose not to experience it if we could.

In some ways, its like a smoke alarm, said Natasha Reynolds, a psychotherapist at Bloom Psychology & Wellness in Toronto. That smoke detector alerts you to actual danger and allows you to get out of your home safely, but it also alerts you to things that arent actually dangerous, like how a smoke alarm can go off over a piece of burnt toast.

Similarly, that threat detection part of our brain... might go off at what it perceives as a threat, but its not truly dangerous to us, Reynolds said.

When that smoke alarm goes off frequently to things that arent dangerous, it can be a sign to seek support and develop tools to navigate this stress response, Reynolds said. Additionally, common thoughts, behaviors and actions make your anxiety smoke alarm go off more frequently than it should. Heres what they are:

Black-And-White Thinking

A common unhelpful thinking pattern can be called black-and-white thinking, or also known as all-or-nothing thinking, Reynolds said.

This kind could mean looking at situations as good or bad and not considering the gray areas, Reynolds explained.

So, for example ... if I made an error in an email, this must mean Im incompetent, and the other person thinks this too, she said. In reality, it doesnt mean youre incompetent; a mistake means youre human, and the person on the receiving end thinks this, too (that is, if they even notice the mistake).

These thoughts can get you down and even make future communications really stressful, causing anxiety to creep in every time you have to email this person or even causing you to stop emailing altogether.

Avoidance

Speaking of stopping something altogether, therapists say this is another habit that can have a negative effect on you.

The No. 1 behavior, I believe, that makes anxiety worse is avoidance, said Jennifer Anders, a Colorado-based psychologist who runs The.Anxiety.Doc Instagram account. This is actually counterintuitive to what most people believe. Anxiety becomes worse when you avoid the situation, or the place, or the people that trigger your anxiety.

Just think about it: If you avoid looking at a credit card balance because of the anxiety it gives you, by the time you do look at that balance, youll be riddled with anxiety  and that comes after weeks and weeks of stress looming over you.

The avoidance fuels that cycle of anxiety, and kind of reinforces that bodily response and exacerbates anxiety over time, Anders said.

Justine Grosso, a psychologist in North Carolina who also shares mental health insight on her Instagram account, said instead of avoiding a situation, you should incrementally approach it.

With social anxiety, for example, Grosso said instead of going to a big party, schedule a one-on-one coffee date with a new friend or go to the party for 10 minutes and leave.

We want to approach things and be willing to tolerate a little bit of discomfort in the service of our values. Meaning, if we value friendship... its going to be meaningful for us to approach these social interactions instead of avoid them, Grosso explained.

Its important after we do something that is anxiety provoking, to literally take time, and tell our brain, Hey, we survived this thing, we did this hard thing, and we survived, Grosso added.

The way you talk to yourself matters  therapists say negative self-talk can leave you feeling unnecessarily anxious.

The way you talk to yourself matters  therapists say negative self-talk can leave you feeling unnecessarily anxious.

Seeking Reassurance

Constantly asking for other peoples feedback on a situation or even Googling your health symptoms is also contributing to your anxiety, Anders said. These kinds of behaviors are known as seeking reassurance.

In the short term, the self-reassurance quells that worry feedback loop in your mind, but in the long term, it actually creates this other negative feedback loop that requires reassurance just to feel OK, Anders said.

In other words, reassurance is a quick fix but wont do any favors for your anxiety in the long term.

I always encourage people to refrain from doing that as much as possible, Anders said because it significantly increases anxiety in the long haul for many people.

Catastrophizing

Have you worried that your anxiety would cause you to faint and youd receive no help from those around you? Or have you ever mailed your rent check late and assumed this means youll be immediately evicted?

This is known as catastrophizing, which is thinking about the worst-case scenario and believing that this scenario is whats most likely to occur, according to Reynolds. As you may expect, catastrophizing contributes to anxiety.

According to cognitive behavioral therapy, they talk about anxiety being a result of us overestimating the situation and then underestimating our ability to cope with that, Reynolds said.

It can be helpful to challenge these worst-case-scenario ideas by saying, What if it all works out? Reynolds said. Because anxiety is not thinking of the best-case scenario.

Additionally, thinking about the actionable ways you could deal with a bad situation can be useful. If the worst-case scenario were to play out, what are your strengths in coping with it that we might be underestimating in that moment, as well? Reynolds said.

In other words, if you did faint, would no one help you? Could you talk to loved ones about this possibility so they can be prepared to step in? Or if you did mail your rent check late, could you pay a late fee to your landlord?

The worst-case scenario usually doesnt happen, but a catastrophizing thought pattern can convince you it will.

Negative Self-Talk

It turns out that telling yourself youre not good enough or that something isnt going to work out is more than mean; its adding to your anxiety, too, according to Anders.

This is a huge one that, again, many people are not aware of how they talk to themselves and the words that they use to describe themselves as they go through their daily life and their daily activities, Anders said.

These words are often really harsh  way more harsh than how wed talk to friends or family.

I really encourage people to pay attention to the words theyre using with themselves, and the first step is not to change it. The first step is to just bring awareness to it, Anders said.

People-Pleasing

According to Anders, people-pleasing can also fuel your anxiety. Think about it: When youre constantly putting other peoples needs and opinions above your own, you create some uncomfortable feelings for yourself, including anxiety. Whats more, she added that it makes you feel like youre neglecting yourself, which can cause anxiety.

Anders said many people, particularly women, are conditioned to put other peoples needs above their own, which makes this a hard habit to break.

This really creates a dynamic of self-neglect, prioritizing everyone elses wishes and needs above your own, [and] poor boundaries is something else that this leads to, Anders said.

And, really, just developing self-worth thats contingent on other people, and what you do for other people, thats a huge, huge one that contributes anxiety, she noted.

If these behaviors are affecting your anxiety regularly, it's time to see a therapist.

If these behaviors are affecting your anxiety regularly, it's time to see a therapist.

Ways To Address These Anxiety-Inducing Habits

To combat these behaviors, grounding skills can be really helpful, Grosso said. Grounding skills can lower the heart rate and bring on a state of ease that just isnt there during an anxiety tailspin.

Grounding activities include going for a walk and or doing a workout, Grosso said. Additionally, Grosso said mindfulness skills can help, too. Like becoming aware of your five senses  taste, touch, sight, smell, sound  and the reason why connecting to our five senses is grounding is because it literally gets us into the present moment, Grosso said.

Additionally, Reynolds said she likes to encourage people to do belly breathing, which is taking deep intentional breaths and as youre inhaling, youre extending your belly forward, and as youre exhaling, youre bringing your belly in. This sends more oxygen to the brain and helps bring you a sense of calm, Reynolds said.

Its also helpful to name the anxiety-inducing behavior when its happening. The way to be mindful of our thought patterns is to essentially label them when they happen. Oh, there I go, catastrophizing, let me notice that, Grosso said.

Or, take a few moments to name the negative self-talk or reassurance-seeking thats happening, too. And then shift your focus onto the present moment, Grosso said.

Over time, you can learn how to distance yourself from these thoughts and become aware of them when theyre happening so you can remind yourself that they arent helpful and are, in fact, not reality, either.

Beyond at-home tools for dealing with anxiety, it can also be helpful to seek professional help; anxiety can be more complicated than it lets on.

Another interesting take on anxiety is that anxiety might actually be a secondary emotion and kind of covering up another emotion that youre feeling that you deem unacceptable, Grosso said.

You may have been raised to think that being angry isnt acceptable, or you may be harboring grief presenting as anxiety. In other words, there could be larger problems at play, which is where advice from a therapist can help.

I think psychotherapy is a really powerful experience to just better understand ourselves, understand our emotions and why we do the things we do, Grosso said.

You can use databases like Psychology Today and Inclusive Therapists to find therapists near you.

Related...
An obscure webpage that Stanford University had quietly published seven months earlier made a huge splash in late December.

It was the product of the university's Elimination of Harmful Language Initiative, a "multi-phase, multi-year project to address harmful language in IT at Stanford." The goal was to remove dozens of undesirable terms from university materials. Among the offenders were crazy, for "trivializ[ing] the experiences of people living with mental health conditions"; guys, for "reinforc[ing] male-dominated language"; American, for "insinuating that the US is the most important country in the Americas"; and Karen, for being "used to ridicule or demean a certain group of people based on their behaviors."

The backlash was fierce. Conservative groups such as the Chicago Republican Party and Young America's Foundation called the guide "Orwellian." So did The Stanford Review, the university's independent newspaper. It received (often scathing) coverage in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Daily Beast, Fox News, and countless other outlets. Fox's Greg Gutfeld called the initiative "language castration," while the Wall Street Journal editorial board lamented that "parodists have it rough these days, since so much of modern life and culture resembles the Babylon Bee." Even Elon Musk got in on the action, tweeting: "@Stanford, what is your explanation for this madness?"

A few weeks after the deluge, Stanford took down the guide. Chief Information Officer Steve Gallagher admitted that it had "missed the intended mark."

The language guide was specific to just one universityone university's I.T. department, no lessbut it was part of a bigger trend. Consider the ongoing debates over whether to capitalize black, whether to say birthing people, and "equity language" style guides. Debates over language are even being hashed out in the halls of government: Several cities have prohibited the use of he and she in new laws and policies, Arkansas banned the use of Latinx in state documents, and staffers in the Trump-era Energy Department international climate office were reportedly told not to use the phrase climate change.

Each of these episodes brought heated charges: that English is changing too quickly, that it's evolving inorganically, that linguistic powers-that-be are imposing new ideologies from above. Under "new regimes of indoctrination and propaganda" on the right, "language no longer functions as simply a repository of meaning and facts" but "has turned toxic and takes on a newsignificance in its ability to shape values, social relations and actions," the leftist cultural critic Henry A. Giroux claimed in the progressive outlet Truthout. Meanwhile, in Spiked, the philosopher Peter Boghossian argued: "Every word in the woke lexicon conceals activism. Every single one."

In his 1946 essay "Politics and the English Language," George Orwell wrote that "political language has to consist largely of euphemism, question-begging and sheer cloudy vagueness." This is made worse by the fact that "all issues are political issues," with politics itself "a mass of lies, evasions, folly, hatred and schizophrenia." Orwell's essay lamented the ways that political conflict degrades language, twisting it to suit political purposes. And the worse the political environment, he argued, the worse things were for language: "When the general atmosphere is bad, language must suffer."

These anxieties, as with so many other aspects of the culture war, drive combatants to push for heavy-handed interventionssometimes involving state pressurethat will ostensibly benefit their sides. That approach misunderstands the way that the English language has always evolved. As in a market, people offer new terms that may be efficient, silly, innovative, out-of-touch, controversial, trendy, or long-lasting.

One fact is unavoidable. Linguistic trends come and go, but robust competition is what ensures that languages retain what's most useful to their speakers.

The American Language

People have feared the degradation of English throughout American history.

John Adams ' concern that English was "going to the dogs" was so strong that in 1780 he called for a "public Institution for refining, correcting, improving and ascertaining the English Language." Most European nations, he noted, had already established such institutions. The "American Academy" would be publicly funded and offer a "public Standard" for "the Signification and Pronunciation of" the language. Not only does "the Form of Government" have an influence on language, the future president argued, but language "influencesthe Form of Government [and] the Temper, the Sentiments and Manners of the People."

Thomas Jefferson also cared deeply for the English language (and he introduced words to the vocabulary that we still use today). But he differed from Adams on the matter of governing our common tongue. Where Adams wanted to place an authority over American English to ensure controlled growth, Jefferson believed centralized power was stifling its development.

"I am no friend therefore to what is called Purism; but a zealous one to the Neology"that is, adopting or creating new words"which has introduced these two words without the authority of any dictionary," Jefferson wrote in 1813. "I consider the one as destroying the nerve & beauty of language, while the other improves both, and adds to [its] copiousness."

The English language's "enlargement must be the consequence to a certain degree" of its spread around the globe, Jefferson continued. "The greater the degree, the more precious will it become." With enough development, the former president wrote, the character of American English "may separate it in name, as well as in power, from the mother tongue."

Governments have long resisted the evolution and diversity that Jefferson praised, especially when it comes to loan words, local languages, and foreign influence. In the Soviet Union, "the writing systems of some languageswere transformed from the Latin to the Cyrillic script in order to alienate the people speaking Turkic languages from Turkeyand bring them closer to Russian," wrote the University College London linguist Alex Krouglov in a 2021 article for Current Issues in Language Planning. Soviet state media "produced numerous politically correct phrases describing political, economic, and cultural events in the country and overseas," Krouglov explained, which "were first coined in Russian and then transferred to other languages of the Soviet Union." Texts "deemed ideologically correct were first translated into Russian, and then from Russian into other languages of the Soviet Union."

Authoritarian governments have outright banned the use and teaching of minority languages. Under Francisco Franco's dictatorship in Spain, regional languages such as Catalan and Basque were outlawed. The current Chinese government has forced video services and other online platforms to eliminate content in the Tibetan and Uyghur languages. Even Mandarin, the majority language, isn't safe: Censors banned the Chinese words for incapable ruler, my emperor, and disagree from the social media site Weibo in 2018.

The linguistic authority that Adams proposed may have been more moderate, but that doesn't mean it would have been benign. Adams hoped to mimic the Academie FrancaiseFrance's "linguistic secret service," as Vanity Fair's James Reginato has put it, a body charged with preserving standards of French vocabulary and grammar. The Academie is more often the subject of ridicule than it is the purveyor of useful language guidance. It cannot keep up with new language developments, having worked on its latest dictionary since 1986. Its efforts to stamp out English loan words like hashtag, WiFi, and email are like beating back the tides.

'Many of These Bad Words Are Fine'

Adams lost. There is no American Academy. And American English is better for it.

The U.S. has seen some linguistic micromanaging, such as isolated legislative efforts to excise the phrase illegal alien from the law and ban Latinx from schools. There has been macromanaging, including repeated attempts since the 1980s to declare English the official language of the United States. There has been harsh, wholesale suppression, which involved the banning of instruction in Native American languages and Native Hawaiian, jeopardizing those languages' survival.

Broadly speaking, though, American English has been allowed to develop organically. This process has looked more like a market at work than top-down political control.

American English has been free to accept loan words from many foreign tongues. These additions have made the language more adaptable, descriptive, and responsive to its speakers' needs. When colonists first encountered unfamiliar plants and animals, they borrowed Native names. Moccasin, moose, and muskrat came from the Natick language of modern-day New England; hickory and raccoon from the Great Lakesregion Algonquian; and bayou from the southeastern Choctaw. As settlers came to the new country from Germany, the Netherlands, and France, and later from Mexico and Yiddish-speaking enclaves of Eastern Europe, they lent their words to the developing language too.

No less than Walt Whitman admired this broad and tolerant approach to the nation's tongue. As Kenneth Cmiel wrote in The Journal of American History in 1992, "The words of fighters, gamblers, thieves, and prostitutes ought to be collected, he thought, the bad words as well as the good, for 'many of these bad words are fine.'"

An ever-changing language will inevitably leave behind some offensive and vulgar terms as times change. "Many ethnic slurs like 'dago,' used at one point in time to disparage people of Italian and sometimes Spanish descent, and 'kraut,' a derogatory way to refer to Germans and German-Americans, seem to have disappeared from youth consciousness entirely," wrote the University of California San Diego cognitive scientist Benjamin Bergen in 2019.

The reverse is also true: Some offensive words eventually become kosher. In 1972, piss and shit were among the comedian George Carlin's "Seven Words You Can Never Say on Television." They're commonplace now. "Virtually everything about profanity has changed since the 1970s," wrote Bergen. "At least four of those previously forbidden words have become pervasive in media, in television, social media, online gaming, newspapers and books." The LGBT community has reappropriated such once-offensive terms as gay and queer.

Then as now, new influences weren't always welcome. People caught in the clashes between tradition and change have sometimes armed themselves with government power. But our battles over language have almost always been resolved by argument and cultural evolution, not by top-down rules.

A New Front

On the left today, language warriors push what the writer Harry Cheadle has called "Style Guide Liberalism: a fixation on terms and language that is well-intentioned but inevitably creates a murky layer of jargon between speaker and listener, writer and reader." This "inevitably results in an in-group and out-group," Cheadle writes. It's not just that most Americans don't use the new favored termslarge shares don't even know them. One such term is BIPOC, or "Black, Indigenous, and People of Color," unknown to 63 percent of Americans. Per a 2020 Pew Research Center poll, less than a quarter of Hispanic adults had heard of the term Latinx.

One can reasonably wonder who Style Guide Liberalism is really serving. Major universities and nonprofits certainly think it serves someone. The Sierra Club, the American Cancer Society, the University of Washington, and the American Medical Association have all adopted so-called equity language guides. They draw from just a few resources published by progressive activist organizations, and though those guides mention how language evolves, they don't represent organic evolution. They have much more in common with Orwell's assessment that political writing must resort to euphemism.

There is evidence that this approach doesn't yield the intended results. The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression has compiled several studies that "reveal unintended consequences of efforts to reduce linguistic harm." In a January paper, the psychologist April Bleske-Rechek and her colleagues "found that including one sentence warning students they might encounter harmful language caused them to perceive ambiguous phrases as harmful." In other words, "The prime increased the harm it aimed to prevent." A 2011 study found that "Asian-American students who perceived ambiguous comments as evidence of racism experienced higher anxiety than those who did not perceive racism in the same situations."

Pressure movements spearheaded by conservatives have convinced some universities to reconsider or repeal their language guidance and speech codes. Unfortunately, this impulse has also led to some overcorrection: The Texas Public Policy Foundation warned parents in 2021 to "stay on the lookout for some of [critical race theory's] less 'buzzworthy' names and language," offering a list that included identity, colonialism, and ally. More broadly, anticritical race theory legislative efforts have aimed to limit speech on "divisive concepts" in public schools and other government settings. And though some Democrats have joined them, it's largely Republicans who are leading the charge to ban the term Latinx in government settings.

The right's approach raises the same question as the left's: Who is this for? Though polls show very few Hispanics using the term Latinx, they also find that few are bothered by it. Just 12 percent of respondents to the 2020 Pew poll said they disagreed with or disliked the term. It might not be good for the right itself, either. Culture-war skirmishes turn off voters who would prefer to see a more policy-driven conservative platform. Though they're popular among conservative elites, they're out of touch with working-class priorities.

Getting Better All the Time

Politics and language won't be separated anytime soon. Does that mean we're doomed to endure battles over acceptable vocabulary year after year, decade after decade, with the threat of government action lingering?

Perhaps. A 2021 Pew survey found that 53 percent of American adults felt that "people saying offensive things to others" is a major problem. But there's also evidence that Americans are weary of the language wars. Sixty percent of respondents in a 2019 Pew survey said "too many people are easily offended over the language others use." Though 79 percent of respondents in a 2017 Cato Institute survey said hate speech was morally unacceptable, a far smaller share40 percentsaid the government should prevent it.

People seem to have faith in the market to sort the language out. A 2022 New York Times survey revealed two interesting trends: There are plenty of new, politically correct terms that Americans don't seem particularly interested in adopting, and at the same time Americans have been turning away from some words that have grown less socially acceptable over time. A scarce 10 percent of respondents said they'd use the word chestfeeding (embraced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Health Service). Global South hasn't caught on (just 15 percent of respondents use it), but Third World still appeals to a strong 73 percent, even though the Second World disappeared three decades ago. And while 84 percent say they use the contentious phrase master bedroom, just 28 percent say spaz. Gypsy hasn't fully gone the way of other terms deemed ethnic slursEnglish law still uses itbut more than half of the survey respondents said they wouldn't say it.

The market doesn't always work quickly or seamlessly. Anxious and impatient language warriors have long been willing to use heavy-handed tactics, at times even trying to sic the government on their opponents. But the historical pattern is clear. Cultural pressure and exchange will inevitably change languages. Given the opportunity, they'll grow to be what their speakers need.

The post The Things We Can't Say appeared first on Reason.com.
A view of the Ocean Explorer, a Bahamas-flagged Norwegian cruise ship with 206 passengers and crew, which has run aground in northwestern Greenland is pictured on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023. The 104.4-meter (343-foot) long and 18-meter (60 foot) wide Ocean Explorer ran aground on Monday in Alpefjord in the Northeast Greenland National Park. Another attempt to pull free a luxury cruise ship with 206 people that ran aground in the worlds northernmost national park has failed by using the high tide. It was the third attempt to free the MV Ocean Explorer. (SIRIUS/Joint Arctic Command via AP)

COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP)  The luxury cruise ship MV Ocean Explorer was successfully pulled free on Thursday, three days after running aground in Greenland with 206 people on board, authorities and the ship's owner said.

The ship was freed by a fisheries research vessel at high tide, said the cruise ship's owner, Copenhagen-based SunStone Ships, and the Joint Arctic Command, which coordinated the operation.

"There have not been any injuries to anybody onboard, no pollution of the environment and no breach of the hull, SunStone Ships said in a statement. The research vessel which pulled the cruise ship belongs to the Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, a government agency, it said.

It said the cruise ship and its passengers will now travel to a port where the damage to the vessels bottom can be assessed, and the passengers will be taken to a location from where they can be flown home. There was no immediate comment from the tour company that organized the trip, Australia-based Aurora Expeditions.

The cruise ship ran aground Monday above the Arctic Circle in Alpefjord in Northeast Greenland National Park, the worlds northernmost national park. The park is nearly the size of France and Spain combined, and approximately 80% is covered by an ice sheet. Alpefjord is about 240 kilometers (150 miles) from the closest settlement, Ittoqqortoormiit, which is nearly 1,400 kilometers (870 miles) from the countrys capital, Nuuk.

The Bahamas-flagged cruise ship has passengers from Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States. It has an inverted bow, shaped like the one on a submarine, 77 cabins, 151 passenger beds and 99 beds for crew, and several restaurants.

Earlier Thursday, Aurora Expeditions said three passengers had COVID-19.

These passengers are currently in isolation. They are looked after by our onboard doctor, medical team and crew, and they are doing well, it said in a statement. Others on the MV Ocean Explorer are safe and healthy, it said.

Australian newspaper The Sydney Morning Herald quoted a retiree from Australia who is on the ship, Steven Fraser, as saying: Everyones in good spirits. Its a little bit frustrating, but we are in a beautiful part of the world.

Fraser told the newspaper that he had come down with COVID-19 on the ship.

Cmdr. Brian Jensen of the Joint Arctic Command told Greenland broadcaster KNR that the ship is likely to go to Iceland, the closest place with large ports.

Now it is exciting to find out what the condition of the ship is, Jensen was quoted as saying by KNR. They are in the process of investigating whether the ship is intact and seaworthy and ready to sail on.

The ship's owner said several other vessels had rushed to the scene and offered their assistance, which however, was not needed. It said it had also arranged additional tug assistance in case it was needed, however, this has now been canceled.

Dozens of cruise ships sail along Greenlands coast every year so passengers can admire the picturesque mountainous landscape, waterways packed with icebergs of different sizes and glaciers jutting out into the sea.

Danish broadcaster DR said there were 400 cruises in Greenland in 2022 and 600 cruises in 2023.

The Danish Maritime Authority asked police in Greenland to investigate why the ship ran aground and whether any laws had been violated, a police statement said, adding that no one has been charged or arrested. An officer has been on board the ship to carry out initial investigative steps, which, among other things, involve questioning the crew and other relevant persons on board, it said.

The cruise liner began its current trip on Sept. 2 in Kirkenes in Arctic Norway and was due to return to Bergen, Norway, on Sept. 22, according to SunStone Ships.

The primary mission of the Joint Arctic Command is to ensure Danish sovereignty by monitoring the area around the Faeroe Islands and Greenland, including the Arctic Ocean in the north. Greenland is a semi-independent territory that is part of the Danish realm, as are the Faeroe Islands.
FILE PHOTO: Republican U.S. presidential candidates participate in first 2024 campaign debate in Milwaukee

By Nathan Layne and Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The third Republican primary debate in the race to be the party's presidential nominee will be held in Miami, Florida, in early November, a Republican National Committee official said on Thursday.

THE TAKE

The first Republican debate was held in August, and had eight candidates on stage. The second and next Republican debate is on Sept. 27 at the Reagan Library in California.

Former President Donald Trump, the runaway front-runner in the nominating contest according to opinion polls, has said he will skip the debates, and did not appear at the first one.

Trump may hold a rival event at the same time as the debates, as he did last month when he sat down for an online interview with former Fox host Tucker Carlson.

CONTEXT

* With the Republican-controlled House of Representatives launching a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden over alleged links to the business practices of his son Hunter Biden, future debates are expected to feature a barrage of accusations against the Democratic president.

* Most candidates have thus far hesitated to attack Trump due to his popularity with the Republican base, despite his four indictments.

* With Trump currently crushing his rivals by roughly 40 percentage points in national polls, the Republican nominating contest has become a fight for second place.

* Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, long seen as Trump's main challenger, will be looking for some breakout moments to rejuvenate his candidacy.

(Reporting by Nathan Layne and Kanishka Singh; Editing by Howard Goller)
The Russian occupation of Ukrainian territories has endangered the existence of thousands of Scythian era monuments.

Source: Oksana Lifantii, archaeologist, museologist and specialist in Scythian culture, in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda

Quote: "The largest number of Scythian mounds (especially from late V-IV centuries BC) are concentrated in the Dnipro region. These are the territories of Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson oblasts. These are thousands of monuments.

It is clear that not every burial contains gold, but every burial is a story of a certain person. And when such burials are investigated, we can recreate what profession this person was, what they did, even their appearance, DNA.

If this burial is, say, blown up, or a bomb is dropped on it, then we will lose this information."

Background:

In April 2022, the Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration reported receiving information that the Russian military seized the Melitopol City Local History Museum, and "collaborators showed the Russians the place of storage of the Scythian gold discovered by archaeologists in the 50s of the last century".

In October 2022, the Ministry of Culture and Information Policy stated that they do not know where the Scythian gold from the local history museum of Melitopol, which is currently occupied by Russian troops, may currently be.

In April 2022, the Zaporizhia Oblast Military Administration reported that the Russian military was mining the territory near the Kamiana Mohyla ("Stone Tomb")  a unique geological and archaeological monument of world importance, located near Melitopol, Zaporizhia Oblast.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
A federal judge ruled the Obama-era DACA program is illegal, leaving thousands with uncertainty about their futures.

 WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS

The program was created in 2012 to give temporary relief to Dreamers, undocumented migrants who were brought to the United States as children. There are about 24,000 DACA recipients in Florida.

READ: Neighbors saw red flags for months before 4 children were removed from Volusia County home

The new federal ruling would stop new applications. Its not clear how it affects pending applications.

This Administration is committed to protecting all the Dreamers who enrich our communities and our country. We continue to call on Congress to provide permanent protection to the hundreds of thousands of Dreamers.



A statement from @PressSec on District Courts Ruling on DACA: pic.twitter.com/FhLOSnoMXB  The White House (@WhiteHouse) September 14, 2023

While those currently in the program should be safe, recipients like Eli Garcia are worried about what could come next if the Supreme Court does overturn it.

The 34-year-old said the program was a relief for her after first coming here from Guerrero, Mexico at just nine-years-old. It helped her obtain a license and go to college.

READ: State attorney: Grand jury will review all law enforcement use-of-force cases in Orange, Osceola

How much do I need to demonstrate to the United States that I belong here? You know, how much more do I need to give, Garcia said.

The decision is likely off to the appellate court next, which could take months before heading back to the Supreme Court for review.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Hong Kong: FS: Belt & Road has benefits for all

Financial Secretary Paul Chan

The Belt & Road, an inspiring initiative brought to brilliant life by President Xi Jinping, is celebrating its 10th anniversary. It is a timely opportunity to take stock of what the Belt & Road has realised in its first decade, and what it can accomplish in the years to come.

Building on the spirit of co-operation and mutual benefit, the initiative has soared on many fronts  in economic policies, infrastructure connectivity, finance, trade, as well as people-to-people bonds. It links nations, economies, companies, institutions and individuals. Everywhere.

To date, more than 150 countries and 30 international organisations have joined the Initiative, setting in motion more than 3,000 co-operation projects involving US$1 trillion in investments, and creating more than 420,000 jobs.

From ports, railways and bridges to power facilities and industrial parks, the Belt & Road is bringing infrastructure and the hearts of people together through elevated trade, investment and cultural exchange. Its projects are injecting energy and vibrancy into economies, bringing tangible benefits to the peoples and communities of the participating countries all over the world.

The Belt & Road has, in general, raised the trade volume of participating parties by more than 4%, attracted 5% more foreign investment, and levelled up the GDP (gross domestic product) of low-income countries by 3.4%, according to the World Bank.

I believe our ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) partners can readily testify to the positive impact of this remarkable collaboration.

Consider the recently opened Jakarta-Bandung Railway, Southeast Asias first high-speed railway, which will shorten travel time between the two cities from three and a half hours to just 40 minutes. Or the Kuantan Industrial Park in Malaysia, or the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway in Cambodia. They are just some of the Belt & Road projects.

Hong Kong is determined to work with ASEAN, and all countries and economies along the Belt & Road. Together, we can make a decided difference down the road.

Among the many benefits that Hong Kong can bring to the table, infrastructure financing, operation and risk management is an obvious one. In the next few minutes, please allow me to elaborate.

On capital, our financial markets are deep and wide. As an international financial centre, we have a deep pool of international capital as well as talent. In fact, 73 of the top 100 global banks, and 12 of the worlds top 20 insurance companies, operate here. Our stock market has a capitalisation of more than US$4.5 trillion, about 13 times our GDP. Last year, some US$200 billion in bonds were issued here, and we topped Asia in terms of international bonds arranged by Asian entities.

We have been striving to broaden our product offerings in the area of infrastructure financing. For example, in May we launched our first ever scheme to issue securitised infrastructure loans, to the order of some US$400 million, involving 25 projects in the Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and South America, to facilitate investments into these brownfield projects and thereby release their earlier-stage investments to fund other greenfield projects.

Climate change is a global agenda. Going forward, green is a key element in infrastructure development. The appetite for such investment is huge  for Asia alone it will amount to US$66 trillion in the coming three decades. Hong Kong is Asias leader of green finance, and we issued some US$80 billion in green bonds and sustainable debts last year. In fact, the bonds issued by us last year accounted for more than one-third of Asias market share.

Allow me to tell you that we are not just a green finance centre. We have a great and vibrant green tech sector, too. Numerous green tech companies from Hong Kong are already up and running in the Belt & Road countries, contributing to their green transformation. That includes startups focusing on innovative cooling coating, carbon sequestration and other areas. Together with our sister cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area whose strengths include technology and innovation, we are determined to be the worlds leading green tech and green finance centre, with a complete financial, technological and industrial chain to drive global green transition.

Hong Kong can also share much-needed know-how in designing, building and managing infrastructure projects. For example, our MTR Corporation, recognised for its efficient, affordable and commercially viable services, has been operating metro services across multiple geographies, from Beijing and London to Melbourne, Stockholm and other cities as well. The Airport Authority Hong Kong, another major infrastructure jewel, has been invited to join aviation city developments in Thailand, sharing its experience and expertise. In fact, we have a deep pool of world-class professionals across different disciplines with vast experience in various phases of international mega-infrastructure projects, who are ready to serve you.

Hong Kong is also the right place to be for managing risk in infrastructure projects. Governments and enterprises from the Belt & Road can access a world-class insurance market here, as well as a range of innovative products provided by our insurers and reinsurers. They include, for example, catastrophe bonds with insurance-linked securities. One such recent issuance was in March, in partnership with the World Bank, to cover earthquake risks in Chile. And it has listed on our stock exchange.

Another important dimension in risk management is naturally managing disputes. Hong Kong has long had a trusted, common law legal system in place, and our judiciary has been exercising its judicial powers independently. Our mediation and arbitration services are world-class. The arbitral awards here in Hong Kong are recognised and enforceable not just in the Mainland but also internationally. In fact, Hong Kong is the worlds number three most preferred seat for arbitration according to the International Arbitration Survey 2021.

In infrastructure financing, operation and risk management, and many other areas, Hong Kong is able to contribute. We are proud to be an active participant, contributor and beneficiary of the Belt & Road Initiative.

Ladies and gentlemen, the Belt & Road may have been born in China, but it very much belongs to the world. Let us work together to build a better world that brings prosperous development, shared benefits and hope for all.

Before I close, if I can make an appeal, particularly to those coming to the summit from afar. Apart from the hard work and the summit, please take some time to tour this wonderful city to have a taste of our metropolitan lifestyle. There are a lot of superb restaurants  and we do not have tax on wine. Try one of our more than 200 Michelin restaurants. Our street food is equally good. If you are interested in culture, there are two world-class museums in the West Kowloon Cultural District: the Hong Kong Palace Museum and the M+. For those of you who love nature, visit our scenic country parks and beautiful beaches.

Financial Secretary Paul Chan gave these remarks at the Belt & Road Summit luncheon on September 13.

This story has been published on: 2023-09-14. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
China's top legislator holds talks with speaker of UAE Federal National Council

Xinhua) 08:52, September 14, 2023

Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, holds talks with Saqr Ghubash, speaker of the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)

BEIJING, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, on Wednesday held talks in Beijing with Saqr Ghubash, speaker of the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Zhao said that under the two countries' leaders, China and the UAE have continuously consolidated their political mutual trust, expanded their practical cooperation, deepened the friendship between the two peoples, and brought bilateral relations to a new stage of comprehensive, rapid and in-depth development. China is ready to work with the UAE to elevate bilateral relations and bring more benefits to the two peoples, he added.

He said that China stands ready to strengthen exchanges at all levels to consolidate strategic mutual trust, and that it appreciates the UAE for its long-term, firm support on issues concerning China's core interests and major concerns.

"We hope to deepen practical cooperation, steadily advance cooperation in established areas such as energy, investment and infrastructure, and tap into cooperation potential in emerging areas such as information technology," Zhao said.

Zhao expressed the hope that China and the UAE will strengthen cooperation on culture, tourism and civil aviation to consolidate popular support for bilateral relations, and extended congratulations to the UAE on becoming a member of the BRICS family.

He said China supports the UAE in playing a bigger role in international and regional affairs, and stands ready to work with the UAE to practice true multilateralism and promote international fairness and justice.

Zhao highlighted the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, stressing that China is willing to work with the UAE to promote cooperation on the three global initiatives and inject more positive energy into a turbulent world.

The NPC of China is willing to strengthen friendly cooperation with the UAE Federal National Council, promote friendly exchanges at all levels, and deepen exchanges of experience in law-based national governance, economic development and the improvement of people's livelihoods, Zhao said. It is also willing to provide legal guarantees for the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative and practical cooperation in various fields, he added.

Noting that next year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries, Saqr Ghubash said the UAE Federal National Council stands ready to strengthen cooperation with the NPC of China, deepen exchanges and mutual learning related to legislation and other fields, and contribute to the development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.

Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, holds talks with Saqr Ghubash, speaker of the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
MOGADISHU, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Embassy in Somalia hosted a reception on Thursday to mark the upcoming 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC).

In the capital Mogadishu, Somali government officials, representatives from various walks of life in the East African country, and delegates from foreign diplomatic missions in Somalia participated in the celebration.

Speaker of the House of the People of the Federal Parliament of Somalia Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur congratulated the Chinese government and people on the anniversary and expressed appreciation for the support China has extended to achieving peace and development in Somalia and other African countries.

Noting that Somalia and China enjoy a long-lasting friendship, the speaker said, "We share the pleasure with the Chinese government and people on this celebration."

Chinese Ambassador to Somalia Fei Shengchao underscored China-Somalia friendship, saying cooperation between the two countries has yielded fruitful results.

"No matter how the times and situation change, the proud and profound friendship between China and Somalia has never changed, and the friendly relations between our two countries keep growing from strength to strength," Fei said, noting that China is a staunch supporter of Somalia.

According to the ambassador, China has provided support to Somalia in security supplies, food aid, orphans' care, training courses, scholarships, and renovation of hospitals, schools and public institution buildings. With Chinese support and scholarships, hundreds of Somalis including diplomats, military officers, judicial officials, fishing experts, journalists and students have opportunities to go to China for training, education and exchanges.

The Chinese envoy particularly emphasized the importance of people-to-people exchanges in promoting the relations of the two countries. He shared with the participants the story of a six-year-old Somali boy, Kawkib Mohamud, who won the first prize in the "My Dream" painting competition with his work of a dove for peace. The painting was exhibited by Chinese astronauts on Wednesday on China's space station together with the other nine works of African youth.

"It's a very relevant message from a six-year-old Somali for peace and for the future," Fei said. 
Prosecutors and FBI agents involved in the Hunter Biden investigation have been the targets of threats and harassment by people who think they havent been tough enough on the presidents son, according to government officials and congressional testimony obtained exclusively by NBC News.

Its part of a dramatic uptick in threats against FBI agents that has coincided with attacks on the FBI and the Justice Department by congressional Republicans and former President Donald Trump , who have accused both agencies of participating in a conspiracy to subvert justice amid two federal indictments of Trump.

The threats have prompted the FBI to create a stand-alone unit to investigate and mitigate them, according to a previously unreleased transcript of congressional testimony.

We have stood up an entire threat unit to address threats that the FBI employees facilities are receiving, Jennifer L. Moore, then an executive assistant director of human resources for the FBI, told the House Judiciary Committee in June. It is unprecedented. Its a number weve never had before.

Its going to be about 10 people when its finished, she said. We are still in the process of staffing it right now. But their sole mission on a daily basis is threats to FBI employees at facilities.

Moore told lawmakers that threats to FBI agents and facilities had more than doubled  there were more in the six months from October to March than in the previous 12 months. More recent data was not available; officials say the pace of threats increased after the FBI investigations of Trump became public last summer and has not slowed since.

The FBI declined to comment.

Natalie Bara, president of the FBI Agents Association, a nonprofit group that advocates for current and retired agents, said in a statement, FBI Special Agents and their families should never be threatened with violence, including for doing their jobs. This is not a partisan or political issue. Calls for violence against law enforcement are unacceptable, and should be condemned by all leaders.

Federal prosecutor Lesley Wolf, who had been part of U.S. Attorney David Weiss team investigating Hunter Biden, got such a barrage of credible threats that she sought security help from the U.S. Marshals Service, according to previously unreleased testimony from an FBI official to the House Judiciary Committee last week. Two IRS agents on the case have accused Wolf of making decisions that appeared favorable to Biden. A Justice Department spokesman declined to comment.

Special counsel Jack Smith and his team have long been protected by an armed security detail, as is Robert Hur, the special counsel appointed to investigate classified documents found at President Joe Biden s home and office.

On Thursday, the Atlanta office of the FBI said in a statement that it is aware of threats of violence against officials in Fulton County, Georgia, and is working with the county sheriff's office. Trump and 18 other defendants face state charges in Fulton County in connection with alleged election interference.

The field office declined to provide details of any investigations, but said, "[E]ach and every potential threat brought to our attention is taken seriously. Individuals found responsible for making threats in violation of state and/or federal laws will be prosecuted."

An intelligence bulletin last year said the FBI was investigating an unprecedented number of threats against agents and facilities in the wake of the August 2022 search of Trumps Mar-a-Lago compound in Palm Beach, Florida. A few days after the search, a man who was present at the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot was shot and killed after he tried to breach the FBIs Cincinnati field office wearing body armor and carrying a rifle.

The FBI told House Judiciary Committee aides that Laura Dehmlow, who headed the FBIs Foreign Influence Task Force and has been accused by congressional Republicans of suppressing social media and news coverage of Hunter Bidens laptop, was the target of multiple threats after her name was connected to the Biden story, according to two congressional officials.

A source familiar with the matter said some FBI personnel have been the victims of swatting, in which someone calls in a false report that leads armed police to rush to a home.

Last week, an FBI agent involved in the Hunter Biden investigation told the House Judiciary Committee that the threats have extended to agents family members.

Things towards their families, that has absolutely increased, Thomas Sobocinski, an FBI agent involved in the investigation, said in a transcribed interview that has been widely circulated. [T]he sense of the employees and especially the sense of their families is, yes, they feel threatened.

In response, Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, told Sobocinski that the committees counsel, Steve Castor, faced the same kind of thing when he defended Trump in impeachment proceedings.

Theres no place for those kind of threats and that kind of thing, Jordan said.

CORRECTION (Sept. 14, 2023, 3:00 p.m. ET): A previous version of this article misstated the first name of the House Judiciary Committees counsel. He is Steve Castor, not Bruce Castor.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Allegations of negligence and child abuse have long plagued Ruby Franke, with nearly 18,000 people signing a 2020 Change.org petition urging authorities to open an investigation.

But in the weeks since the YouTube family blogger and her business associate, Jodi Hildebrandt, were both arrested and charged with six counts of aggravated child abuse, Franke has become the target of TikToks true crime sleuths.

Franke was arrested on Aug. 30 after police say her emaciated 12-year-old child escaped Hildebrants home, with open wounds and duct tape around his arms and legs. She is currently being held without bail in Washington County along with Hildebrant. Each count of child abuse carries a possible sentence of between one and 15 years in prison.

Related

National media outlets quickly latched on to the story, as did their audiences. During Frankes first court appearance, thousands of people tried to tune into the routine proceeding, resulting in an unruly virtual courtroom where members of the public went off mute to berate each other in expletive-laden rants.

Some of the attendees were creators on TikTok, where a mix of investigative reporting, conspiracy theories, hot takes and unsubstantiated allegations about Franke are going viral.

As of Wednesday, the #rubyfranke hashtag has 1.2 billion views on TikTok; #rubyfrankeisabadparent has surpassed 167 million views; #rubyfrankeishot has over 20 million views.

Frankes once popular YouTube channel 8 Passengers, which amassed nearly 2.5 million followers, has been defunct for several months. And in a statement, YouTube confirmed that two other channels associated with Franke have also been deleted.

But content creators, some who racked up millions of views posting about the defamation trial between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard, or Bryan Kohberger and the four slain University of Idaho students, have reposted old clips of Franke stitched with their own opinions.

Some videos name her young children, who have spent much of their life and personal information documented online by their mother, but are currently undergoing a sensitive custody process with the Utah Division of Child and Family Services, or DFCS.

Others make bold, unsubstantiated claims about Franke, accusing her of crimes she has not been charged with, like kidnapping and sexual assault.

One post from the TikTok user joysparkleshine shows an older video of Franke tickling one of her kids on his bed; when the child tells Franke to stop, she appears to spank him.

She is hitting a private area, the TikToker says in a video with more than 170,000 views.

Now that shes made accusations of (sexual assault) with all of the other abuse accusations we have to look at this differently and my question is, are we seeing some type of (sexual assault) here or the signs of it growing? I dont know, what do you guys think? Sound off in the comments, tell me your thoughts, click the plus sign, Ive got more coming, the creator says at the end of the video.

The accusations of sexual assault stem from a Daily Mail report that alleges Franke made claims to a judge during a recent DCFS child welfare hearing about allegations of sexual abuse in the home.

The Deseret News has been unable to confirm the report, as documents and transcripts from child welfare hearings are protected. According to sources familiar with the matter, if Franke did indeed make those claims, DCFS is required to pass those allegations along to the local police agency, who will then investigate. If the allegations are credible, detectives will recommend charges to the Utah County attorney. As of Tuesday night, the Utah County Attorneys Office was not investigating the allegations, a source confirmed.

Other TikTok accounts speculate on the specifics of Frankes arrest and the evidence discovered  a popular theory is that Frankes children were discovered in a panic room, a locked, safe room often installed to protect against home invasions. You can hear them talking about where the children were being held (panic room under the garage) reads text in a video with over 61,000 views.

Were the rest of Ruby Frankes children found in a panic room? reads text from another video, this one with nearly 1.4 million views.

In dispatch audio obtained by the Deseret News, officers are heard talking about a panic room in Hildebrandts house.

Theres a panic room inside the garage, an officer says. My guess is that would be where theyre at.

But nothing in the audio suggests children were found in the room, like many TikTok creators allege. Instead, Frankes 12-year-old escaped the house through a window, according to police, and in the original 911 call he tells a neighbor that his sibling is not detained at Hildebrandts home, and able to walk freely. That child was found to be malnourished, charging documents read.

And some videos spread falsehoods, like the claim that Frankes children are currently suing her for defamation.

A search of the Utah and federal courts database shows no such lawsuit exists.

The frenzy around Franke is reminiscent of the murder of Gabby Petito, a young woman killed by her boyfriend Brian Laundrie during a cross country road trip. TikTok and YouTube sleuths are credited with identifying Laundries van in an unrelated YouTube video, leading police to narrow their search for Petito. Her body was found just 1,000 feet from the van, according to police.

But social media virality has its downsides  consider the quadruple homicide of four University of Idaho students, which remains the subject of millions of views on TikTok. A professor at the university recently sued social media influencer Ashley Guillard for defamation after she accused the professor of being involved in the murders, according to a federal complaint.

Related

Or the case of Lori Vallow Daybell, the mother convicted of murdering her children in Rexburg, Idaho. The quaint, rural town dubbed Americas Family Community became synonymous with the murders as bloggers, social media influencers and true crime fans flocked to Rexburg. This past spring, the rural neighborhood where the children were killed was still seeing visitors, sometimes stopping by a nearby memorial to take selfies.

Judge Steven Boyce moved Vallow Daybells trial across the state to Ada County over concerns the court would be unable to seat a jury because of the publicity. Cameras were later banned from the trial, and it took nearly a week to find 18 jurors after dozens were disqualified for having prior knowledge of the case.
Migrants stand in the Lampedusa's migrant reception center, Sicily, Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. The reception center in Italy's southernmost island of Lampedusa remained critical Thursday as it coped with transferring to the mainland thousands of migrants who arrived on small, unseaworthy boats in a 24-hour span this week. (AP Photo/Valeria Ferraro)

LAMPEDUSA ISLAND, Italy (AP)  A migrant reception center in Italys southernmost island of Lampedusa was overwhelmed Thursday as authorities worked to transfer to the mainland thousands of people who arrived on small, unseaworthy boats in a 24-hour span this week.

The Red Cross said there were still 4,200 migrants at the center out of the 6,800 who reached the tiny tourist and fishing island in a flotilla of some 120 boats that set out from Tunisia. Commercial ferries and Italian military vessels were taking newcomers from Lampedusa to mainland Italy.

After a particularly challenging day like yesterday, today people are being continuously transferred, Francesca Basile of the Italian Red Cross said. The situation is certainly complex and gradually we are trying to return to normal.

She said all of the migrants received and camping beds were being distributed so that they dont sleep in the cold.

The movements of newly arrived migrants are usually tightly controlled. But with the reception center overflowing, some slipped away, and they were spotted all over the island, according to volunteers.

As Italian television station Sky TG24 filmed outside the center, people could be seen climbing over a wall in the background.

Some residents handed out pasta, Sicilian rice balls and water to the migrants they encountered. A pair of islanders lugging a carton of fresh peaches stopped to give pieces of fruit to migrants who were exploring Lampedusa's main tourist street, which is decorated with colored lights and lined with reateries and souvenir shops.

A local firefighter said he asked his mother to cook up spaghetti and serve several young men from Burkina Faso whom he ran into when he was headed elsewhere for a grilled fish dinner, Italian news agency ANSA said.

They were exhausted, but above all famished,'' ANSA quoted Antonello Di Malta as saying about the migrants his mother fed on their patio. One of them got down on his knees, asking to eat."

Sky TG24 reported just one migrant boat arrived on the island Thursday, carrying 44 people.

Lampedusas mayor, Filippo Mannino, lashed out at the European Union for leaving Italy alone to handle large numbers of arriving migrants, saying the bloc had remained silent all these months. He called for a structural solution and told Sky that Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni had pledged her support.

Speaking at a demographics conference in Hungary, Meloni said the problems created by Italy's aging population should not be resolved with immigrants working to support the social welfare system and keep the economy humming.

She said she would support a quota system for legal immigration where necessary and (where it) can be fully integrated.

Italys interior minister, Matteo Piantedosi, consulted by phone on Thursday with the EU internal affairs commissioner, Ylva Johansson, about the migrant situation, effectively acknowledging that the current approach wasnt working.

We agreed on the need to develop a new European operative strategy against human traffickers, Piantedosi was quoted as saying in a statement released by his office. I underlined to the commissioner the need to beef up repatriations by Tunisia toward the (migrants) countries of origins."

A bilateral meeting in Brussels is planned soon, the statement said.

Italy has a repatriation agreement with Tunisia to send back Tunisians found ineligible for asylum, but not with most of the other countries whose migrants come ashore in Italy.

According to the Interior Ministry, nearly 126,000 migrants reached Italy by sea this year as of Thursday morning, nearly double the number as by the same time last year. On Thursday, another 180 migrants rescued at sea were brought to the port city of Salerno, south of Naples.

Separately, a group of European Union lawmakers hit out at Tunisian authorities on Thursday after they were denied entry into the country for a visit aimed at better understanding a migration-focused agreement Tunis recently signed with the EU. They called the refusal "unprecedented since (Tunisia's) democratic revolution in 2011.''

Tunisia has become the main stepping stone to Italy this year, replacing Libya, where widespread abuse of migrants was reported. The port city of Sfax is a central jumping-off point for Africans who hope to make the risky boat journey across the Mediterranean.

The visit by the cross-party EU delegation was slated as a follow-up to an April 2022 trip that was made amid concerns about democratic backsliding in Tunisia. The lawmakers from Germany and France planned to be in Tunisia Sept. 14-16 with a goal of promoting dialogue between Tunisias political parties.

The lawmakers warned that the dire economic and social situation in Tunisia, further aggravated by the humanitarian crisis, urgently requires a comprehensive national dialogue, without which the prospects for stable political and economic development in Tunisia remain bleak.

___

Colleen Barry in Milan and Frances D'Emilio in Rome contributed reporting.

___

Follow APs coverage of global migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration
BRIGHTON, Tenn.  Police arrested a Tipton County high school student Wednesday for making threats to shoot up the school.

A 14-year-old Brighton High School student from Atoka was taken into custody and charged with making a threat of mass violence on school property.

The threats were reportedly made in a Snapchat post.

He was released to his parents and is expected to appear in Juvenile Court later this month. He is not allowed back at school at this time.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Two Atlanta social media sensations are now starring in a new series that pulls back the curtain on the lives of the high-profile duo.

Toya & Reginae airs on WeTV, and follows the chaotic life of mother-and-daughter duo of Toya Johnson-Rushing and Reginae Carter, the ex-wife and the daughter of hip-hop legend Lil Wayne.

The powerful pair are no strangers to the spotlightevery tweet, comment or post they make is dissected on all the hottest blogs, but what their fans see on social media is just scratching the surface, a news release about the show said.

TRENDING STORIES:

The two will be on the Tamron Hall Show on Thursday afternoon to talk about what to expect from the new reality series.

As happy as they appear on social media, in reality, their lives are unpredictable and full of chaos as they navigate their complex family dynamic, the news release said.

Growing up, a lot of people have seen me on social media and have made their own comments about me, Carter said. [Now] people are going to see me go for what I want.

WATCH their exclusive interview with Tamron Hall on WSB-TV at 3 p.m. followed by Channel 2 Action News at 4 p.m.
One of the downsides of writing frequently for a long time is that sometimes you get things catastrophically wrong. Such was the case when I wrote in mid-2016 that Mitch McConnells blocking of a hearing on Merrick Garlands nomination to the Supreme Court would backfire on him and Republicans in the 2016 election. I mistakenly believed that the Senate majority leaders cynical and naked power grab would turn most Americans off and sufficiently demonstrate that the balance of the court was at stake in the 2016 election, resulting in a Hillary Clinton victory.

Thats not how it went down, though. In fact, holding open that seat worked out exactly how Republican leaders hoped, and now were left with a rogue Supreme Court that overturned Roe v. Wade and has ceased to care how political or corrupt it appears in the process. This egregious miscalculation on my part is why I take such a dim view of what is happening with Senator Tommy Tuberville and his blocking of hundreds of military nominees for senior flag-officer positions.

This is a naked power play, whose end goal, I suspect, is to fill every senior military position simultaneously with Trump loyalists and sycophants if Trump wins reelection in 2024.

Traditionally, the Senate has voted for entire blocks of generals and admirals nominated for assignments in short, bipartisan voice votes with unanimous consent to do so. Tuberville has broken tradition and is using Senate parliamentarian rules to insist on a full confirmation vote on every single nominee. There is already a backlog of over 300 unfilled positions, which will rise to over 650 by the end of the year: There is literally not enough time in a year for the Senate to do this.

The reason Tuberville is making this power play is over the Defense Departments policy of allowing service members in states that block access to abortion to get time off and travel to states where abortion is legal, with their expenses paid by the military. Tuberville claims this violates the Hyde Amendment. However, this ignores the damage he is doing up and down the ranks of the military.

At the lower levels, the military policy is necessary given the grim realities of where the DOD is now. It has a significant problem with sexual assault that appears to be getting worse. It also has major problems with recruiting, and 30 percent of 16- to 24-year-olds specifically cite fear of sexual assault as the reason why they are uninterested in military service. Almost one in five members of the military are female, so abandoning efforts to recruit women would likely exacerbate existing manpower shortfalls.

Giving in to Tubervilles demands would create significant problems for the military. What happens when a service member is raped, becomes pregnant, and is denied leave by her commanding officer to terminate the pregnancy? Or is so junior that she cannot afford to seek care elsewhere? What happens when these stories start reaching the media? Similarly, what happens when there are complications from a wanted pregnancy that needs to be terminated (e.g., ectopic, molar, or otherwise nonviable pregnancies) after six weeks? Again, what we see in red states is women needing to be at deaths door, bleeding out in their car in the hospital parking lot, before doctors are allowed by hospital lawyers to act. It will happen, and when it does, it will be a nightmare for the DOD in terms of recruiting and public perception of the institution.

It also could cause major issues with retention, which has been the one way that the Pentagon has been staving off the worst of the effects of its recruiting woes. After some high-profile cases, what female service member is going to willingly accept orders to a state where being raped has the potential to be a death sentence? Or where she faces the possibility of choosing between a court martial for going AWOL to seek medical care or being forced to carry her rapists child? Another common scenario in the military is people having a choice between staying in and taking new orders or simply getting out. It seems likely that were Tuberville to prevail, we would see women presented with the choice of accepting orders to Fort Bliss or leaving the service increasingly choose the latter.

As retired Navy Captain and Arizona Democratic Senator Mark Kelly notes, this situation has an impact on the lives of the flag officers (and those nominated for promotion to admiral or general), as well as our military alliances. People cant retire, are separated from their families, their kids lives are further disrupted, and allies are insulted when we send a colonel instead of a brigadier general. But the implications go beyond just the human aspect.

Acting heads of organizations are legally limited in how much they can do to steer the course of these agencies. They are more caretakers than people who can set a course and implement a vision. With the war in Ukraine raging, tensions in the Pacific high, and a revolution in artificial intelligence and drone warfare taking place, our national defense system needs people in place who have the authority to implement the changes necessary to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving threat environment.

This is why the service secretaries are speaking out against Tuberville. Even military leadership like Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mark Milley (the chiefs are generally loath to wade into highly visible political fights with individual senators) has been highly critical of Tubervilles actions. Soon, most of the seats on the JCS will be vacant, and setting a long-term heading for the DOD will be nearly impossible since everyone will be in an acting capacity.

But rape, women hemorrhaging in parking lots, massive manpower shortfalls, and complete loss of ability to steer the long-term vision for our forces arent the worst part of this. The nightmare scenario is that none of these posts get filled and Trump gets to fill all of them with hand-picked nominees who are selected specifically for their inability to ever say no. Trump hated military leadership, whom he insultingly regarded as pussies.

Military leaders generally saw their role as preventing Trump from doing catastrophically stupid, illegal, or unethical things. According to Trumps former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, Trump wanted the National Guard to shoot the protesters outside the White House in 2020. Its also become part of the mainstream GOP platform to advocate bombing or invading Mexico. Esper later admitted he only stayed on as defense secretary because he was worried Trump would replace him with an uber loyalist.

Trump, for his part, learned that if he wants to get his way, he needs everyone in positions of authority to be loyal to him first and everything else second. He hates being told no and takes a cavalier attitude toward the legality of his actions, believing in a unitary executive office immune from prosecution. Trump has not hidden that his second term is going to be a revenge tour to tear down the government. Given the chance, he will fill the entirety of U.S. military flag positions with yes-men. If nearly all of the positions are vacant, he doesnt have to fire or replace anyone: He can simply submit a different slate of nominees, all of whom have been prescreened for ideological and personal loyalty.

And therein lies the path to madness: There will be no one left to say no to any of the worst impulses of Trump and his ultra-right, pro-Russian base. Its not just forcing trans people out of the military and revoking the ability to travel for abortions; its forcing most women out of the service as well. Its bombing Mexico and sending in special forces. Its abandoning Ukraine, withdrawing from NATO, and sharing intelligence with Russia. And ultimately, if there are protests, its going to be Trump asking for a massacre of protesters from a room full of people who cant wait to say yes.

Senator Tubervilles actions are obviously harmful in the here and now. But I struggle to see Senate Republicans changing the rules to strip him of his power to block these nominations, because the presumed Republican nominee wants to be the one to fill them. This is an opportunity for power beyond imagining: the instantaneous, complete, and utter ideological co-option of military leadership by a single political party whose vision for America is theocratic, autocratic, and based on permanent minoritarian rule.

Trump would like nothing better than a room full of generals who only know how to say yes. And its been a long time since weve seen Republicans say no to the concept of power at any price.
Comic books have long been filled with daring superheroes performing incredible feats with amazing superpowers. Many of these stories have clearly been worthy of their own movies (the success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe is all the proof we need of that), the artwork is iconic and the characters have become part of readers everyday lives for generations.

Yet, regular people without superpowers have been performing similarly daring feats since long before the founding of the United States. When the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) finally began getting the writers, illustrators, and colorists who work on our favorite graphic novels to start telling the stories of Medal of Honor recipients, it makes us wonder: what took so long?

No matter how long it took, AUSAs Medal of Honor graphic novels are here, and will hopefully stay for a while. Its latest book tell the story of Alwyn Cashe , a U.S. Army NCO whose vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb in Iraq in 2005. Cashe, covered in fuel from the blast, ran back to his burning vehicle to pull his soldiers out. In the process, his uniform caught fire, covering his body with burns that would take his life weeks later. Its a gripping story about the dedication of a soldier to his troops.

Cashes story is just the latest, but with 20 books spread across five volumes, theres a lot of good (and free) reading to be done. Here are just a few of our favorites (in the order in which they were released), but be sure to catch them all  were not going to give away the whole story here.

Check out our favorite Medal of Honor comic books from AUSA

1. Roy Benavidez

If any Medal of Honor story should be a comic book and movie franchise, its the story of Roy Benavidez during the Vietnam War. Staff Sgt. Benavidez , a member of the U.S. Armys Special Forces, volunteered to rescue a 12-man reconnaissance team being pinned down by a large North Vietnamese force in 1968. Outnumbered by almost 100-to-1, it was a daring mission.

Benavidez had already retaught himself to walk after stepping on a landmine three years prior. This was literally jumping into certain death. Over the course of six hours, Benavidez fought a battalion of communists as 12 soldiers and 9 Montagnards were loaded onto helicopters. We cant tell you how this very true story goes, youll just have to read it.

2. Henry Johnson

Johnson joined the U.S. Army after the United States entered World War I. He was sent to France as part of the 369th Infantry Regiment, which was among the first to arrive as part of the American Expeditionary Force. Since white soldiers would refuse to fight alongside Black soldiers, the 369th was lent to the French Army, which had no such qualms about color.

Johnson and another soldier from the 369th (nicknamed the  Harlem Hellfighters ) suddenly came under attack in May 1918. Despite being wounded, Johnson held off the surprise German assault, exposed himself to enemy fire to save a comrade, and kept his unit from being overrun.

Sgt. Henry Johnson. (U.S. Army)

3. Tibor Rubin

Rubin was born to Jewish parents in Hungary in 1929. After his brother was arrested and sent to the Mauthausen Concentration Camp, Tibor tried to escape. He was captured near the Swiss border in 1944 and was also sent to Mauthausen. He survived when many of his family did not. He emigrated to the United States and joined the US Army because they had liberated his camp.

In 1950, he was sent to Korea, where he was recommended for the Medal of Honor four times but denied due to antisemitism. His decimated unit was overrun and he was captured in October 1950, but while morale was low in the prison, Rubin used his experience at Mauthausen to sneak out and steal food and supplies from their captors. He is the only Holocaust survivor to receive a Medal of Honor.

Rubin wearing the Medal of Honor in September 2005.

4. Gary Gordon and Randy Shughart

Anyone whos seen or read the book  Black Hawk Down  might be familiar with the story of Gary Gordon and Randy Shughart. They were part of an Army special operations mission in Mogadishu, Somalia during the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu. When one of the helicopters went down, pilot Michael Durant survived, but reported he couldnt move, even as armed Somalis converged on the crash site.

Shughart and Gordon repeatedly asked to be inserted to the crash area to help get Durant to safety and protect the crash site from the armed crowd. The walked into that fight knowing there was little chance of survival. They died fighting but Durant survived, was taken prisoner and ultimately returned.

Gary Gordon (left) and Randy Shughart (right).

5. Samuel Woodfill

After World War I, John J. Pershing , commander of the American Expeditionary Force and at the time, the countrys most legendary military leader, was asked who the most outstanding soldier of the Great War was. Pershing told them it was Samuel Woodfill, to whom hed personally presented the Medal of Honor.

Woodfill was a skilled soldier with 16 years of service before World War I. In the final offensive of the war, Woodfill led his men against entrenched German machine guns. He would take out three nests until he ran out of ammo, then used an ax to finish off the last one. Woodfill lost none of the men under his command that day.

Samuel Woodfill.
A judge on Thursday denied rapper Tory Lanez 's motion for bail while he appeals his conviction for shooting rapper Megan Thee Stallion . ( Associated Press)

Tory Lanez's latest attempt to avoid being sent to a California prison has failed.

The hip-hop star's motion for bail was rejected Thursday by a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge, a court spokeswoman confirmed. Lanez is facing a 10-year prison sentence for shooting rapper Megan Thee Stallion.

The Canadian hip-hop artist, whose legal name is Daystar Peterson, had asked the judge to release him on bail so he could live with his son and wife while he works on his appeal. However, Judge David Herriford denied the motion, citing Lanez's conviction for a violent felony, history of violating court orders and foreign citizenship among the reasons.

Read more: Tory Lanez gets 10 years in prison  and social media erupts with opinions on the sentence

Lanez has been held in Men's Central Jail since January, according to online records for the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. It is unclear when he'll be transported to state prison.

"The Color Violet" and "Hurts Me" emcee grinned at his supporters, including his father and friends from the Unite the People legal-services group  the nonprofit he frequently works with  before being led out of court, tweeted legal affairs reporter Meghann Cuniff, who was in the courtroom Thursday.

Outside the courthouse Thursday, a Unite the People attorney for Lanez told reporters that "the judge didn't agree with our side" and that "this is just the first step in many of the processes" Lanez's supporters are undertaking to appeal the conviction.

"The outcome on this motion (and case) is a miscarriage of justice. Simply put, Daystar Peterson is a trademark applicant for bond on appeal. He is not a flight risk, poses essentially no danger to society, and has strong merit-based arguments on appeal," said L.A. defense attorney Matthew Barhoma, who represents Lanez, in a statement to The Times.

Barhoma added that Lanez was free on bond for two years while the case was pending "and not much has changed."

"As such, to get denied bond at this stage is simply not a fair shake. Overall, it feels a lot like a punishment of his celebrity. Because the next defendant will likely get a different sentence and a different result," he said.

Lanez was sentenced to 10 years in state prison in early August for shooting Megan Thee Stallion in 2020. Megan  real name Megan Pete  was shot in the foot when an alcohol-fueled argument turned violent after the rappers left a party at Kylie Jenners Hollywood Hills home. Lanez denied all wrongdoing.

Read more: Megan Thee Stallion calls out 'my haters' at first performance since Tory Lanez sentencing

The 31-year-old was convicted in December of assault with a firearm, illegal possession of a firearm and negligent discharge of a gun after a dramatic trial that featured tearful testimony from Megan Thee Stallion and a key witness requesting immunity shortly before stonewalling prosecutors on the stand.

Harriford remanded Lanez to Mens Central Jail after the jury handed down its verdict in December, Barhoma added, noting that the rapper has been in solitary confinement since then.

"Again, no other defendant accused of these offenses receives like treatment," he said.

The hip-hop artist faced a maximum of 22 years and eight months in prison. Although he did not testify during the trial, Lanez addressed the court in August for the first time since his arrest to talk about his religious upbringing and how he had spent his life doing charitable works. He also asked the judge not to punish him too harshly for what he called a wildly out-of-character moment.

Times staff writer James Queally contributed to this report.

Sign up for L.A. Goes Out, a weekly newsletter about exploring and experiencing Los Angeles from the L.A. Times.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Grant Parish Sheriff Steven McCain (right) shows how a drone seized during a weekend traffic stop can release a payload of drugs. The drones and soda cans stuffed with drugs were among items that were trying to be smuggled into the U.S. Penitentiary in Pollock. To McCain's left is Pollock Police Chief Chris Paul.

COLFAX  A traffic stop for driving too slowly ended up uncovering a cross-country trip by Texas residents who had planned to drop drugs into federal facilities across the country, Grant Parish law enforcement announced Thursday.

A Grant Parish Sheriff's deputy pulled over a vehicle on Airbase Road near the U.S. Penitentiary in Pollock around 1 a.m. over this past weekend for driving too slowly.

The deputy could smell drugs from outside the car, said Sheriff Steven McCain, and it didn't take too long for officials to figure out they had something much bigger than a traffic violation on their hands.

"Jayln Wilson and Keierra Hunter had a list of seven different facilities in the United States they were supposed to go to and drop off drugs," said McCain.

The sheriff said the drugs seized were worth $1,286,500. Also recovered were two drones that sell for almost $5,000 each and eight cellphones.

Another woman, 29-year-old Michaila Shermaine Freeman of Jefferson, Texas, was arrested on Wednesday with more contraband intended for the prison. Wilson, a 29-year-old Brazoria, Texas, resident, and another man, 22-year-old Noah Ryan Stegall of Austin, remain missing with warrants for their arrests.

Hunter, a Houston resident, is 20.

He called the operation extremely organized and somewhat sophisticated.

Investigations are continuing, including one by the U.S. Bureau of Prisons to determine if any of their personnel were helping the group. McCain said the FBI is involved and that the U.S. Attorney's Office is looking at the case to see if it should be handled by them.

'Lot of firepower': Community tips lead to arrest of Alexandria man, seizure of guns, ammo, drugs, body armor

Hidden drugs: 108 pounds of cocaine and 66,000 mangos seized in Louisiana

Because of that, McCain was reluctant to provide detailed information about what had happened. But he did talk about some of the items seized and a new Louisiana law that took effect just a month ago that helped them make these arrests.

Among the drugs were 185 sheets of paper soaked in a synthetic marijuana known as K2 or Spice. The sheets had various photos printed on them  a gun, a wrecked car, other vehicles, drugs and more.

If they had gotten inside the prison, inmates could have placed some of the paper in their mouths to ingest the drug or could have smoked it, he said.

McCain said each sheet of paper would be torn into 16 strips, each worth $400, meaning this made up the bulk of the value of the drugs seized. Also found were Suboxone, THC wax, marijuana, a vacuum sealer and a scale.

"They had a very, very specific list of what was supposed to be dropped at each location," he said.

He said the drones would be used to drop soda cans stuffed with contraband inside or near the prison's fences. The drone operator could release the package wherever he or she wanted.

"They were ready," said McCain, mentioning the extra batteries. At least six extra batteries were displayed with the rest of the seized materials.

The Pollock Police Department was involved in the traffic stop, too.

Its like chasing a rabbit all the time, said Chief Chris Paul about trying to stop the flow of drugs. Its a hard thing to do because as soon as you catch and stop one thing, they invent something else and have another means to introduce.

The drugs and other items seized over this past weekend during a traffic stop is displayed at a Grant Parish Sheriff's office Thursday morning. The drugs were valued at more than $1.2 million, and the two drones are worth about $4,700 each. Also seized were eight cellphones. The drugs were destined for the U.S. Penitentiary in Pollock, as well as other federal institutions across the country.

Also involved was the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement unit. Two vehicles have been seized, "and we're expecting a number of arrests as this investigation continues," said McCain.

He asked area residents to report anything that looks suspicious to them near the prison.

"We don't want this poison in our community, and we're going to do everything we can to keep this out and keep our parish safe."

The charges each person was arrested or is wanted on are:

Hunter: Two counts of distribution of synthetic marijuana and one count each of distribution of marijuana and distribution of Suboxone.

Freeman: One count each of possession of heroin with intent to distribute, possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, distribution of synthetic marijuana and introduction of contraband into a penal institution.

Wilson and Stegall: Two counts of distribution of synthetic marijuana and one count each of distribution of marijuana, distribution of Suboxone, introduction of contraband into a penal institute and criminal attempt.

The four were charged using a law that just took effect on Aug. 1, Act. No. 302. It beefs up the previous law regarding contraband, adding the two federal prison sites in Louisiana that encompass four prisons and two camps. Both of those are in Central Louisiana  in Pollock and in Allen Parish.

The previous law only applied to state institutions. McCain had approached Rep. Gabe Firment before the last session and told him about the problems they were having fighting contraband in the federal prison. He ended up co-authoring the bill with Rep. Rodney Schamerhorn, and Gov. John Bel Edwards signed it in June.

Grant Parish District Attorney Jay Lemoine said items have been added to the new law that can result in someones arrest now.

With the former law, obviously if you showed up with drugs, you could be arrested, he said. But if you showed up with cellphones, you couldnt, because theres a list of things that are contraband in the prison that arent illegal to possess.

Act 302 changes that.

But, despite the new law, it doesnt stop attempts to get illegal items into prisons and jails. Both McCain and Wood spoke about the struggle to stop that, but Wood acknowledged inmates get contraband and even direct criminal operations from behind bars.

Its amazing what these guys can do, said Wood.

He said, in Rapides Parish, people outside the jail facilities would throw softballs with drugs over fences. Officials had to shut down a street to stop it, he said.

Paul used cigarettes as an example.

Those are worth money. A lot of money, he said. One cigarettes worth $100, so the packs $1,000.

Once prisoners begin bartering and trading, lives can be at stake if someone finds they cant pay what is owed to someone else, said Paul.

Its worth a lot of money to bring that stuff in.

This article originally appeared on Alexandria Town Talk: Traffic stop stops attempt to drop drugs into Pollock prison by drones
CAIRO, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- France is willing to help Egypt solve its debt problems and attract foreign investments, said visiting French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna on Thursday in Egypt.

Colonna made the remarks in a joint press conference in the capital Cairo with her Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry.

France is aware of the difficult economic conditions Egypt is going through and is willing to help Cairo in its talks with international financial institutions, the French foreign minister told reporters.

Egypt's foreign debt reached 165.3 billion U.S. dollars by the end of March 2023, registering a 4.8-percent increase from the same period last year, according to the Central Bank of Egypt.

Colonna said France will work on finding better solutions to Egypt's debt problem and smoother international finance to support the Egyptian economy.

"We would also like to work on increasing foreign investments in Egypt," she said.

Earlier in the day, Colonna held talks with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi on bilateral relations and a number of regional crises, according to the Egyptian presidency. 
A man getting to work at a North Miami-Dade truck yard Thursday morning died from electrocution, Miami-Dade police say.

Miami-Dade police Detective Alvaro Zabaleta said an early investigation indicates the man, who appeared to be in his 60s, was arriving with a co-worker at 830 NW 73rd St. around 5:40 a.m. when a transformer blew. That sent an electrical wire down onto the man, killing him.

County records say the building and lot, where several cement trucks sit, is owned by 830 NW 73rd Street LLC.

This is a developing story and will be updated when more is learned.

This embedded content is not available in your region.
Jessica Watkins, a transgender woman convicted for her role in the U.S. Capitol insurrection, has been transferred to a women's prison after being held temporarily in a men's jail.

Watkins had appealed to anti-LGBTQ+ U.S. Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene , Matt Gaetz , and Jim Jordan in hopes of being sent to a womens prison. It remains unknown if they had anything to do with the action by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The Advocate has sought comment from all three, but not one of them has responded.

Watkins posted last month on X, formerly Twitter, that she was being held in a mens jail and that the Federal Bureau of Prisons planned to send her to a mens prison, She asked her followers In her message on X, she asked followers to contact the Bureau of Prisons, the U.S. Marshals Service, Judge Amit Mehta, and Greene, Gaetz, and Jordan to help assure she goes to a womens prison.

She said that sending her to a mens prison is against the orders of Mehta, the federal judge in her case. She said Jordan, from Ohio, is her representative in the U.S. House, but its unclear why she chose Greene and Gaetz, although their promotion of conspiracy theories about January 6 may be a factor, and Greene has voiced concerns about prison conditions for participants in the insurrection. All three are far-right Republicans.

 (@)

She followed up with a post in September thanking the Bureau of Prisons and saying she was at the Federal Transfer Center in Oklahoma City. The prison has sections for both men and women, but Watkins's post on X shows her designation as female.

 (@)

Watkins was convicted last year of conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of an official proceeding, interfering with law enforcement officers during a civil disorder, and conspiracy to prevent an officer from discharging duties. In May, she was sentenced to eight and a half years in prison.



She had founded a militia group in Ohio and coordinated actions with the extreme-right Oath Keepers in attacking the Capitol on January 6, 2021, to stop the counting of electoral votes and keep Joe Biden from becoming president instead of Donald Trump.Greene, from Georgia, is well-known for her anti-trans and generally anti-LGBTQ stances as well as her embrace of many bizarre conspiracy theories. In 2021, she trolled then-U.S. Rep. Marie Newman, a Democrat who has a trans daughter and who had an office across the hall from Greenes. Greene put up a sign reading, There are TWO genders: Male & Female. Trust the Science!

Greene has said there is a plot to turn everyone in the nation gay or trans, and that social media has caused children to identify as trans. She is behind legislation to criminalize gender-affirming care for trans minors nationwide. She has contended that the Equality Act, an LGBTQ+ rights bill pending in Congress, will destroy religious freedom and womens sports. She has said schools are teaching racism (by teaching about racial injustice) and sexual content, and that amounts to child abuse. She has called the Democrats the party of pedophiles. The list goes on and on.

Gaetz, from Florida, is generally anti-LGBTQ+, but he was one of only five U.S. House Republicans to vote against the so-called Parents Bill of Rights Act, which would require school personnel to out trans students to their parents and put other anti-LGBTQ+ policies in place. Greene and Jordan both voted for it. The bill passed the Republican-controlled House this year, but it is expected to go nowhere in the Senate, which has a Democratic majority.

Gaetz and Jordan have both opposed the Equality Act. Gaetz said in 2019 that the Equality Act would allow anyone to just declare theyre trans and take advantage of that. What happens when sex is defined as gender identity, and gender identity is terribly vague? he said. Will all sex-based distinctions be erased? ... Would grants for female-led businesses or programs for women in STEM fields suddenly be open to all persons, whether they believe or not that they identify as a woman?

Trump, who was then president, could even have claimed to be the first woman president, Gaetz said. The congressman claimed to support equal rights for trans people but said he feared bad actors would exploit the Equality Act.

Also, Gaetz recently introduced a bill to support public prayer in schools and told the Daily Caller, Our countrys education policy forbids students and faculty from praying while endlessly promoting degenerate LGBT and anti-white propaganda. Actually, no one is forbidden from praying privately in public schools, and school officials cannot lead a prayer or require students to participate.

On the first anniversary of the January 6 insurrection, Gaetz and Greene held a press conference promoting the conspiracy theory that the attack was urged on by undercover federal government agents, presumably to make Trump supporters look bad.

Jordan likewise has a long anti-trans and generally anti-LGBTQ+ record. In 2016, he objected to the Obama administrations guidelines urging schools to allow trans students access to the restrooms and locker rooms matching their gender identity. Unfortunately this type of blanket federal policy may tie the hands of those very parents, teachers, school administrators and local school boards who want to protect kids against dangerous situations that could arise from mixed-gender restrooms and locker rooms in schools, he said in a statement at the time.

During his sentencing of Watkins, Judge Mehta was sympathetic about her struggle in coming to terms with her gender identity but not about her actions on January 6. I think you would not have a human  who heard your testimony and would not have been moved, he said, according to published reports.

Your story itself shows a great deal of courage and resilience, he continued. You have overcome a lot, and you are to be held out as someone who can actually be a role model for other people in that journey. And I say that at a time when people who are trans in our country are so often vilified and used for political purposes.

But he added, It makes it all the more hard for me to understand the lack of empathy for those who suffered that day.
Two former Delta Airlines workers are on trial for stealing a bag of more than $250,000 cash before it was loaded onto a plane at JFK Airport, but the mens lawyers contend that theyre just scapegoats.

Qunicy Thorpe was working as an aircraft loading agent for Delta on Sept. 24, 2019, and tasked with putting eight big bags of cash on a plane to Miami, according to federal prosecutors.

Except when the plane touched down in Florida, the airline staff only found seven bags in the cargo hold.

Federal prosecutors allege that he and a pal, Emmanuel Asuquo Okon  at the time a former Delta worker  conspired to steal the cash, and video shows Thorpe and Okon meeting up in an airport parking lot to make the exchange.

The money, which had been brought to JFK by an armored car company, has never been found. But the duo made a tremendous mistake, Assistant U.S. Attorney John Vagelatos told jurors in Brooklyn Federal Court Wednesday. They had left behind hard evidence of the crime.

When the FBI searched Okons car, they found a manila envelope with some incriminating papers  receipts from Loomis, the armored car company that transported the cash, and a Delta waybill that read piece 8 of 8.

Thorpe and Okon face charges of conspiracy to steal cargo and cargo theft, and the possibility of 10 years behind bars.

Their lawyers contend that Loomis and Delta were so embarrassed by the theft of the money that they made the duo scapegoats, and none of the video from that day shows the theft or an actual exchange of cash.

This is not a what happened,' said Okons lawyer, Douglas Rankin. Money got stolen. Whether it was Miami, whether it was New York, money got stolen. A quarter of a million dollars, somebody gets arrested and prosecuted, and its not always the right somebody.

He added, It is undisputed that there is not a video of [Thorpe] stealing the money, Rankin said. The most surveilled airport in the world, no video.

Thorpe, who was a longtime Delta employee, was responsible for scanning and loading eight bags of cash from a Loomis armored vehicle onto a plane headed to Miami on Sept. 24, 2019. He used a scanning device linked to his ID to load seven of the bags, and video footage tells the rest of the story, prosecutors allege.

According to court filings, Thorpe can be seen driving a luggage trailer attached to a tug vehicle to an underground entrance at Terminal 2 and leaving it there. The trailers curtain was closed.

Thorpe is then seen using a cell phone, and when a Delta van pulled up to the entrance, Thorpe walked over and chatted with the driver through the passenger-side vehicle, according to prosecutors. He then got back into the tug and accompanied the van to a remote part of the airport, where they stopped for less than a minute.

They headed back to the underground entrance together, only this time the curtain was open and the trailer appeared empty, the court papers said.

Thorpe got into the van, and the driver took him to an airport parking lot. Not long after they got to the lot, a blue Nissan Sentra owned by Okons domestic partner  who was out of the country at the time  pulled up behind him.

The van and the Sentra left the lot together, and the Sentra left the airport. When the FBI searched the Sentra five days later, an agent found the manila envelope.

Thorpes lawyer, Lonnie Hart Jr., and Okens attorney both suggested that the Delta van driver, whos expected to take the stand for the government, was involved with the theft.

On Wednesday, several Delta and Loomis employees took the stand, describing how the bags of cash were handled before Thorpe had custody of them and after. The trial will continue Thursday.
British-supplied Storm Shadow cruise missiles were the key element of a highly sophisticated Ukrainian air and sea attack this week that represented the most powerful strike against Crimea since the war began. The missiles hit a Kilo Class attack submarine and a large amphibious landing ship in the Russian-occupied port of Sevastopol, and likely caused significant damage to dock facilities. Disabling of the latter vessel was a particular blow for Moscow as these ships are critical for supply from Russia into Crimea following successive attacks on the Kerch Bridge.

When the UK first sent Storm Shadows to Ukraine, armchair experts derided their capabilities, suggesting they were only second best to US equivalents. That is certainly not the view in Kyiv. Most people I have met here in recent days  from senior military commanders and politicians to the man in the street  are hugely grateful for Britains support in their war effort. Storm Shadow is now a familiar phrase in the Ukrainian lexicon.

Nor is it the view in Moscow, which has been targeting runways and air bases utilised by the planes that are used to launch Storm Shadow. These missiles have inflicted severe damage to Russian command posts and logistics dumps deep behind the front lines. And last month they were used to strike key bridges linking the Russian land corridor in occupied Ukraine to Crimea, disrupting supply lines.

With a range of 150 miles, Storm Shadow and its French equivalent, Scalp, are rare in being Western-supplied weapons that can reach into Crimea from behind current Ukrainian lines. This is believed to be the first strike on the peninsula itself by Storm Shadow. Along with previous attacks against Russian naval facilities on the Black Sea and on the Kerch Bridge, it has caused serious disruption to Putins strategy. Moscow will now have to redeploy scarce air defence assets to Crimea to protect against future attacks, increasing vulnerability in other critical areas.

With the Ukrainian counter-offensive moving slowly and few prospects of major advances before the winter mud bogs down assaulting forces, depth strikes against Russian-occupied land as well as its sovereign territory have become crucial. Their value cannot be overstated for Ukraine, whose civilian population, ports and infrastructure are under constant vicious attack by cruise missiles and Iranian Shahed drones.

It makes Americas reluctance to provide long-range weaponry all the more shameful. Months ago President Zelensky asked the US to send much-needed ATACAM missiles, with a range of 185 miles. They have yet to arrive. There has also been a great deal of talk about supplying F-16s, but so far little action.

Most urgently, Ukraine needs new attack drones, as well as the capability to reduce the vulnerability of Kyivs current drones to Russian air defences. But again, this will require a level of support that is not guaranteed.

If Kyiv is unable to penetrate Russian defensive lines this year or even next, the only other realistic option is a peace agreement that leaves Moscow in control of the Ukrainian land it has seized. Sadly, I now suspect that ending the war on any terms in advance of the 2024 election, where it would be a wedge issue, is on Joe Bidens agenda. This would account for his continued, and dangerous, heel-dragging.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
A 35-year-old female bison named Here Comes Trouble, or Trouble for short, that lived in William S. Hart Park in Santa Clarita died over the weekend, park officials announced Wednesday.

Trouble was one of the oldest and most spirited members of a herd living in the sprawling park, located at 24151 N. Newhall Ave.

Los Angeles County Parks Director Norma Garcia-Gonzalez said in a statement that the department was saddened by the loss of Trouble. She will be greatly missed.

Here Comes Trouble the bison is seen sunbathing in this undated photo provided by the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation.

Trouble was born at the park on April 12, 1988 and gained a reputation of being feisty because she apparently picked fights with herd mates, officials said.

She also had a playful side and sometimes challenged the park staff by squaring up to the truck during the morning feeding time. She was a beloved and memorable character among the herd, enjoyed by park visitors and staff, who frequently said, Here comes Trouble when they saw her approaching, parks officials said in a news release.

Trouble brought a lot of joy to those who crossed her path, L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who represents the area, said. Her personality always shone through, and she made both park visitors and staff smile with her antics.

In the wild, bison may live for 15 years, but in captivity, bison may live as long as 25 years, according to the National Park Service.

Trouble exceeded the life expectancy of bison in captivity  living a full 35 years under the care of William S. Hart Park staff, officials said.

The department has cherished the bison herd at William S. Hart Park as a historical and cultural asset since 1962, when Walt Disney donated a herd to L.A. County. The bison had lived at Disneys Golden Oak Ranch in Placerita Canyon.

Ten remaining bison live in the park.

More than 200 animals call L.A. County parks home, many of which are cared for by park stewards and professionals, officials said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton s lawyers began their defense Thursday in his Senate trial, calling witnesses to try to cast doubt on the evidence included in the articles of impeachment.

Former President Donald Trump has also weighed in on the historic proceedings, coming to Paxtons defense in a post on social media, which Paxton then used in a fundraising post of his own.

The trial could be nearing its conclusion as early as Friday or potentially this weekend, as the senators who will decide Paxtons fate do not intend to take a break.

The third-term attorney general is accused of abusing his office to benefit political donor and real estate investor, Nate Paul. Paxton could be barred from running for future office if senators sustain the articles of impeachment sent by the House.

Defense attorney Chris Hilton questions witness Austin Klinghorn, associate deputy attorney general for legal counsel, at the impeachment trial Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, of Attorney General Ken Paxton at the Texas Capitol.

Trump, the leading candidate for the Republican nomination for president, is no stranger to impeachment proceedings. In his post on Truth Social late Wednesday, he blamed establishment RINOS for trying to undo the will of voters and called Paxtons impeachment shameful.

Who would replace Paxton, one of the TOUGHEST & BEST Attorney Generals in the Country? Could it be a Democrat, or even worse, a RINO? The voters have decided who they want! Democrats are feeling very good right now as they watch, as usual, the Republicans fight & eat away at each other. Its a SAD day in the Great State of Texas!

Paxton has been a top ally of Trump and earned his endorsement in his reelection in 2022. Paxton won that race with 53.4% of votes.

Paxton spoke at the Jan. 6, 2021, rally in Washington and filed a lawsuit challenging the 2020 election results in four battleground states won by President Joe Biden. The Supreme Court declined to take up the case.

Like Trump, Paxton and his team have suggested the Texas proceedings are politically motivated.

Im happy to have the support of President Donald J. Trump in my fight, Paxton wrote Thursday in a fundraising message on X, formerly Twitter. I need your help today to finish this week strong. Please chip in today!

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, left, greeting President Donald Trump at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in November 2019.

Some witnesses in the trial have been asked about their politics, including whether they are RINO, or Republican in Name Only, which is used as an insult for those within the GOP deemed not conservative enough.

Ive been called a lot of four-letter words. Thats not one, testified Austin Kinghorn, associate deputy for legal counsel in Attorney Generals Office, on the stand Thursday.

Austin Klinghorn, an associate deputy attorney general, testifies at the impeachment trial of Ken Paxton on Thursday.

Kinghorn was among four current employees in the office that testified as of the afternoon. Others were Justin Gordon, who oversees the open records division, and Henry De La Garza, the human resources director. Grant Dorfman, deputy first assistant attorney general, was on the stand around 5 p.m.

Chris Hilton, one of Paxtons attorneys, had Kinghorn assess the impeachment articles. Paxtons team has maintained theres not enough evidence to sustain the charges.

Among the lines of questioning, Kinghorn was asked about a report that the Attorney Generals Office issued related to the whisleblowers. One of the impeachment articles calls the investigation a sham and says the report contains false or misleading statements defending Paxton.

Kinghorn said hed reviewed the document two to three times and was asked to give feedback.

Hilton asked if Kinghorn was ever directed by anyone to make sure the report was a sham or contained inaccurate information. Kinghorn said he wasnt. If he had, Kinghorn said, he would have raised the issue had he seen any false or misleading content.

Hilton later pressed if Kinghorn has personal knowledge of a vast criminal conspiracy that involves the misuse of the offices resources.

I have no such knowledge, Kinghorn said, later adding he would have left the office if he ever saw anything unethical or illegal.

Im proud of what we do, and Im proud to serve General Paxton, he said.

During cross examination, Erin Epley, one of the attorneys for the impeachment managers, asked Kinghorn who his client is in the Attorney Generals Office.

Kinghorn replied that his client is the attorney general.

Would you believe me if I told you that when you work for the Office of the Attorney General, you work under his authority and for him, but your client is and only ever is the state of Texas, Epley said.

Paxtons lawyers successfully objected.

Much of the afternoons testimony dove into the lawsuit against the Attorney Generals Office brought by the whistleblowers. A settlement in that suit for more than $3 million in taxpayer dollars, which has not been paid out according to Kinghorn, prompted the House investigation into Paxton.

De La Garza, the HR director, testified that the firings of four whistleblowers were justified. They had gone to law enforcement and later sued the office for retaliation. He noted violations of office policy that warranted the terminations.

Did Ken Paxton ever indicate expressly or implicitly that these former staffers needed to be fired because they made a report to law enforcement? asked Amy Hilton, one of Paxtons lawyers.

Not to my knowledge, De La Garza said.

Henry De La Garza, human resources director at the Texas Attorney Generals Office, testifies at the impeachment trial of Attorney General Ken Paxton at the Capitol on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023.
Suspended Texas attorney general Ken Paxton can count on a certain former president who faced two impeachment trials to stand beside him as proceedings in his own impeachment trial unfold.

Donald Trump gave Mr Paxton a boost of confidence in a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, on Thursday morning calling him one of the TOUGHEST & BEST attorney generals.

Mr Trumps words of affirmation mark the first time he has spoken about the trial of his longtime ally since it began on 5 September  though the ex-president issued a statement of support earlier this year when Mr Paxton was first impeached.

In Thursdays post, Mr Trump accused Republicans in Texas of being RINOS (Republican in name only) in their decision to bring 16 articles of impeachment against Mr Paxton.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton was easily re-elected last November, but now establishment RINOS are trying to undo that Election with a shameful impeachment of him, Mr Trump wrote.

Much like Mr Trumps own impeachments and current criminal indictments, the ex-president claimed the allegations against Mr Paxton were politically motivated in order to remove him from office.

Mr Paxton was impeached in May based on accusations, brought forth by his former staffers, of abusing his power to benefit himself and a Texas real estate investor who is accused of helping Mr Paxton engage in an extramarital affair and paying for his home renovations.

He is currently facing 16 articles of impeachment related to the whistleblower complaint including bribery, making false statements, misappropriation of public resources and more. Mr Paxton has denied all of the allegations so far.

Texas state Attorney General Ken Paxton reads a statement at his office in Austin, Texas, Friday, May 26, 2023 (AP)

Despite the Republican-controlled House voting to progress the impeachment trial to the Senate  Mr Trump and other Trump-aligned politicians have cast doubt over the authenticity of the impeachment.

In May, Texas Senator Ted Cruz referred to those who voted in favor of impeaching Mr Paxton as the swamp in Austin working on behalf of President Joe Biden.
Former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis are once again at war over their differing responses to COVID as the race for the Republican presidential nomination heats up.

In an interview on Sirius XMs The Megyn Kelly Show Wednesday night, the presenter pushed Trump on claims he mishandled the pandemic response and made Dr. Anthony Fauci, who led Trumps coronavirus task force, a star.

(Kelly has made no secret of her dislike of Dr. Fauci, releasing a video last year where she said, Fuck you, Dr. Fauci.)

In response, Trump lashed out at DeSantis, his rival for the Republican nomination, claiming he had elevated Fauci.

I was not a big fan of Fauci. If you look at Ron DeSanctimonious, he was, this guy said the greatest things. I can give you articles. That Fauci is great. Hes wonderful. We love him, Trump told Kelly.

Trump went on to say DeSantis had shut down Florida and encouraged residents to get the jab. (Both Trump and De Santis received the COVID vaccine.)

In response, DeSantis War Room, a controversial social media account for the governors campaign, tweeted clips ridiculing Trumps interview.

WATCH: Trump again refuses to acknowledge the Americans who experienced adverse effects of the mRNA COVID shots, brags that he saved 100 million lives.



I never got the credit that I deserved on COVID. pic.twitter.com/YvNwWDsDoz  DeSantis War Room  (@DeSantisWarRoom) September 14, 2023

Its September 2023, the account posted Thursday morning, and Trump wants credit for doing a tremendous job pushing ventilators during COVID.

The DeSantis War Room account on X, formerly known as Twitter, is spearheaded by DeSantis rapid response director Christina Pushaw, according to reporting by Semafor. DeSantis campaign was criticized in June, after the account shared a video portraying Trump as pro-LGBT. It was dubbed homophobic by the Log Cabin Republicans, but DeSantis defended the clip as a fair game attack.

On Thursday afternoon, the War Room released a further video, in which DeSantis directly accused Trump of hypocrisy.

He used to say I was one of the countrys great governors. He said we handled COVID correctly and brilliantly. He was on record, always saying that. Now, because Im a threat to him, he's now changing his tune, DeSantis said. I thought it was really pathetic to sit there and listen to that drivel. It is totally false.

Although DeSantis and Trump were allies during the emergency response to the pandemic, the Florida Governor has recently used Trumps COVID legacy as a wedge issue to distance himself from the former President in the hopes of garnering support from a Republican base suspicious of vaccines and angry about restrictions.

It's September 2023, and Trump wants credit for doing a tremendous job pushing ventilators during COVID. pic.twitter.com/I7zlZAfML1  DeSantis War Room  (@DeSantisWarRoom) September 14, 2023

A recent uptick in COVID cases across the country, and the launch Wednesday of the new vaccine booster, has given both men fuel.

Last week, the DeSantis War Room account released a letter sent to the governor by the White House in Jan. 2021, in which then-President Trumps task force urged him to enact face-masking and physical distancing to help curb the virus.

This wasnt even Biden, this was Trump, De Santis said in a press conference in Florida on Sept. 7. We had to be the one to stand in the breach on that.

The latest war of words between Trump and DeSantis comes as both men have made resistance to further COVID restrictions a bedrock of their campaigns.

On Wednesday, DeSantis warned Floridians the CDC and FDA were trying to use them as guinea pigs to test new coronavirus booster shots, dubbing them hastily-approved. On Sept. 6, DeSantis took aim at Dr. Fauci and other public health officials, promising that as president he would usher in a reckoning for those who devised the failed and destructive biomedical policies that caused damage throughout our country.

For his part, Trump has been boosting conservative conspiracy theories, including that Democrats will introduce new COVID restrictions in order to force voting-by-mail and steal the next election.

The left-wing lunatics are trying very hard to bring back COVID lockdowns and mandates with their sudden fear-mongering about the new variants that are coming, Trump said in a video posted to social media on Aug. 30. They want to restart the COVID hysteria so they can justify more lockdowns, more censorship, more illegal drop boxes, more mail-in ballots.

The DeSantis and Trump campaigns did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Daily Beast.

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.
Former President Donald Trump is dominating the Republican field in South Carolina with almost half of Republican primary voters favoring the former president, according to a Washington Post-Monmouth University poll.

The poll found that 46 percent of potential Republican primary voters in South Carolina support Trump while the states former governor, Nikki Haley, stands in second place at 18 percent. Ten percent support Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and 9 percent back Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis , further displaying DeSantis struggles to gain popularity in the GOP primary.

Five percent of those surveyed support former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. Former Vice President Mike Pence and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy both stand at 3 percent while former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson stands at 2 percent and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum received less than 1 percent.

Thursdays poll is consistent with national polls showing Trump as the GOP frontrunner. A Wall Street Journal poll earlier this month found Trump led with 59 percent of surveyed voters.

Trump has robust establishment support in South Carolina, where he secured endorsements from the states governor, senior senator and three representatives.

The poll also found that 54 percent of those surveyed say Trump is definitely or probably the strongest candidate to beat President Joe Biden, while 42 percent think another candidate would be stronger.

The Post-Monmouth poll was conducted Sept. 6-11 among a random sample of 506 potential GOP primary voters in South Carolina. The margin of sampling error is plus or minus 4.6 percentage points.
Former President Trump in a new interview brushed off the prospect of setting off a war with Mexico if he were to deploy troops across the border to fight drug cartels.

Trump, in an interview with Megyn Kelly on her SiriusXM show, said he would not commit to sending troops to Mexico or reveal specific plans, but something has to be done to combat the cartels and the drug crisis, which he argued is costing the U.S. thousands of lives.

We cant have a war with Mexico, Kelly said.

No, its a war on cartels. Mexico is petrified of the cartels. The cartels are running Mexico, Trump responded.

But if we send our troops across the southern border  if the Mexican president doesnt like it, were in a war, Kelly said.

I know. But, well, Im not too worried about that war, Trump replied. Mexico is sending their troops into our country in the form of illegal aliens that are killing people, in many cases, that are causing lots of disease and lots of problems.

Trump similarly downplayed any friction an escalated fight against the cartels would cause with Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, saying the two have a good relationship.

Lopez Obrador earlier this year warned against foreign governments intervening in Mexican territory after some U.S. lawmakers had called for tougher action against cartels following the kidnapping of Americans.

In a campaign video published in January, Trump laid out his plan to crack down on the cartels, saying he would order the Pentagon to use special forces, cyber warfare, and other overt and covert actions to inflict maximum damage on cartel leadership, infrastructure and operations if needed to fight the cartels, which he also pledged to designate as foreign terrorist groups.

Trump also vowed to deploy all necessary military assets, including having the Navy impose a full embargo on cartels. He also outlined plans to cut off the cartels access to the global financial system and to ask Congress to ensure convicted drug traffickers can be eligible for the death penalty.

Sending military assets to Mexico to fight drug cartels has become an increasingly popular position among Republicans running for the partys 2024 presidential nomination as candidates seek to propose policies that are tough on crime and tough on the border.

One of Trumps top rivals, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R), has said he would send the military to the U.S.-Mexico border if elected president and authorize service members to use deadly force against drug cartels.

DeSantis said in an interview with CBS News on Wednesday that troops would be allowed to use deadly force against individuals identified as members of a drug cartel who are trying to break through the sections of the border wall built during the Trump administration.

The Florida governor has previously vowed to send the military into Mexico on Day 1 to fight the drug cartels, saying at the first GOP presidential debate last month that the cartels are killing tens of thousands of our fellow citizens.

Updated at 1:53 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Mario Cutajar, chairman of Heritage Malta, speaks during an interview in Kalkara, Malta, on Sept. 11, 2023. The rich cultures of China and Malta are under the spotlight at Heritage Malta, the country's national agency for museums, conservation and cultural heritage, its chairman Mario Cutajar said ahead of his visit to China. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)

VALLETTA, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The rich cultures of China and Malta are under the spotlight at Heritage Malta, the country's national agency for museums, conservation and cultural heritage, its chairman Mario Cutajar said ahead of his visit to China.

As the agency is seeking to boost cooperation in the preservation of artifacts and in making them accessible to more people, Cutajar explained how Heritage Malta aims to cooperate with China, citing the upcoming exhibition of Chinese porcelain in Malta as an example.

Cutajar said that the main objective of his visit next week will be to hold meetings to bring more exhibitions to Malta to showcase China's rich culture.

"(The visit) has the objective of understanding each other through culture, mainly by holding meetings to try and get exhibitions to Malta, so that we can explore more the rich Chinese culture and even perhaps exhibitions from Malta to China," he told Xinhua in an interview before his departure.

This would be his second visit to China. The first took place in 2007 after the conclusion of the exhibition of the famous Terracotta Warriors in Malta, which was "a huge success." He took the Terracotta Warriors back to Xi'an, capital city of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, through Beijing.

"I love China. It's a beautiful country," he said, adding that "Our culture is completely different and that is why more understanding between us both will prove fruitful for sure."

On the upcoming exhibition of Chinese porcelain, Cutajar said that although Malta had its own porcelain culture, China's is "world-renowned" and the exhibition would teach visitors about the methods used and the paintings on them, giving them "a better understanding of the level of culture and the timelines of both cultures."

He said the exhibition would involve a lot of behind-the-scenes logistics, including bringing the artifacts to Malta, so he does not expect it to happen before two years' time.

Cutajar explained how Heritage Malta has established a very strong partnership with the China Cultural Center in Malta. The agency will be holding its first Malta Biennale next year and China will be taking part in that event, he said.

He also spoke about the importance of exchanges to explore modern museology and the conservation of heritage. "Even though we are a very small country, we still can provide expertise from our experience," he said.

"The preservation of heritage is so important that it needs cooperation between countries to further preserve it, to save it for future generations," he added. 
Three new polls show more or less the same thing: Donald Trump is the Republicans overwhelming favorite to be their partys presidential nominee next year.

Not only that, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis , once seen as the best hope for a conservative alternative to Trump, is showing signs of collapse. His diminished standing has divided the non-Trump Republican field among several other candidates.

The failure to settle on an alternative helps Trump. Every week that goes by, with the fragmentation in the non-Trump bucket, thats a week that he wins, Republican consultant Scott Jennings told the Wall Street Journal.

Here is a look at the three noteworthy polls from CNN, Quinnipiac University and Emerson College.

Read more on Yahoo News: 6 Of 8 GOP candidates at debate say they would back nominee Trump even if he's convicted, via HuffPost

CNN: Trump 52%, DeSantis 18%

Ron DeSantis campaigning at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. (Hannah Fingerhut/AP)

The new CNN poll finds 52% of respondents favoring Trump as their presidential nominee, up from 47% in June. DeSantis, meanwhile, was far back at 18%, having lost 8% since the June poll. He remains in second place, while former South Carolina governor and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley (7%), former Vice President Mike Pence (7%) and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy (6%) are effectively tied for third place.

The poll also shows that most Republicans are not especially concerned about the four separate trials Trump faces in the near future.

The poll was conducted from Aug. 25-31 among 784 Republican and Republican-leaning registered voters nationwide.

Read more on Yahoo News: How Trump's trials will make a mess of the 2024 election

Quinnipiac University: Trump holds 50-point lead

Vivek Ramaswamy rapping at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines, Aug. 12. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

The results of the Quinnipiac poll were even better for Trump, who was the top choice of 62% respondents. Again, DeSantis was in second place but fading, with only 12% support, down from 18%.

But the poll, which separately surveyed Democrats, held out hope for Republicans who want anyone but Trump to be their nominee: Nearly half (48%) said they might change their candidate choice depending on what happens leading up to the Republican primary.

For that matter, Democrats werent especially thrilled with Joe Biden, with 58% telling pollsters they were open to another candidate.

Clearly, loyalty to the two leading candidates in the primaries for president is not written in stone, Quinnipiac analyst Tim Malloy said.

The survey was conducted from Sept. 7-11 among 728 Republican and Republican-leaning voters nationwide.

Read more on Yahoo News: A Trump-Biden rematch may be on the horizon in 2024, whether voters like it or not, via Associated Press

Emerson College: Trump slides in Iowa  but so does DeSantis

Trump in Pickens, S.C., July 1. (Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters)

If a candidate is going to emerge as a credible alternative to Trump, he or she will have to do it in Iowa, whose first-in-the-nation caucus will take place on Jan. 15.

The most recent Emerson poll suggests that while it will be difficult to defeat Trump there, it may not be impossible. His support in the state, where evangelical Christians hold significant sway, has fallen from 62% to 49%.

DeSantis has made Iowa the focus of his campaign, but he also lost ground (sliding from 20% to 14% since May). Meanwhile, Haley (7%), Ramaswamy (7%) and South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott (8%) all saw their support increase.

A recent report in NBC News described Trumps campaign in Iowa as unfocused and unenergetic, perhaps providing his opponents the very opening they need.

But even if Trump loses Iowa, the winner is unlikely to emerge as the eventual nominee, if history holds. Past victors have included Ted Cruz, Mike Huckabee and Rick Santorum, none of whom went on to become the GOP nominee.

The survey was conducted from Sept. 7-9 among 357 Iowa Republican caucus voters.

Read more on Yahoo News: Trump gets mixed reaction from crowd as he shows up at Iowa-Iowa State football game, via Deadline
Former President Donald Trump continues to hold a large lead over the rest of the Republican presidential candidates in South Carolina, according to a new Washington Post Monmouth University Poll.

But former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley appears to have solidified herself in second place, according to the survey results released Thursday.

Trump received 46% of the support in the poll, which had a margin of error of 4.6 percentage points. Haley had 18%.

U.S. Sen. Tim Scott , South Carolinas other GOP presidential hopeful, received 10% of the support.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis received 9%.

Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie had 5%, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy was at 3%, former Vice President Mike Pence was 3%, and former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson was at 2%.

The poll was conducted from Sept. 6-11 and included 506 likely Republican voters who responded via phone and online surveys.

Previous surveys of likely Republican primary voters in South Carolina have shown Haley and DeSantis running closely together for second place.

But Trump has remained the frontrunner in the state, which will hold its GOP presidential primary Feb. 24.

He still draws large crowds in the Palmetto State, including tens of thousands of people at a Pickens rally in July.

The proportion of South Carolina voters who plan to stick with Trump also is strong. In the poll, 76% of Trump supporters say they will definitely sticking with him, with only 23% saying they might consider someone else.

Of those supporting another candidate, 33% said they are definitely sticking with their first choice, but 63% said they would consider another hopeful.

South Carolina holds the first in the South presidential primary and is key for any White House hopeful. The winner of the GOP primary has gone on to win the nomination in every election since 1980 with the exception of 2012.

Haley has seen her polling numbers, interest in her candidacy, and crowds at her South Carolina events all increase since her performance in the first GOP debate last month in Milwaukee. She was widely lauded for her fiery approach, which included criticisms of DeSantis, Pence, Ramaswamy, Scott and Trump.

Scott, the U.S. Senates only Black Republican, known for his optimistic tone, had the highest favorability rating in the poll at 62%.

Trumps favorability was at 60%, Haley at 59% and DeSantis at 50%.
Former president Donald Trump is scheduled to make an appearance in Lexington next week at a fundraiser for his 2024 presidential campaign.

The event will take place next Friday, Sep. 22, according to Fayette County GOP Chair Fran Anderson.

Tickets to the event start at $3,300.

After having lost a re-election bid in 2020, Trump is the current frontrunner in the 2024 GOP presidential primary, though the contest does not begin in earnest until January.

A contact for the event, veteran GOP fundraiser Meredith ORourke who has a role in Trumps Super PAC, has yet to respond to questions about the nature of the fundraiser and why its being held in Lexington.

WEKU first reported the news of Trumps Lexington plans.

Beginning in March of this year, Trump has been indicted four times, twice for his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss, in different jurisdictions across the United States. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

However, those indictments have not dampened Trumps prospects in the primary. Hes leading the current runner-up, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis , by more than 30 points in most national polls, according to poll aggregation site fivethirtyeight.com.

Coincidentally, DeSantis held a Lexington fundraiser on Tuesday. The event was hosted by third-place GOP gubernatorial primary contender Kelly Craft and her husband, according to an invitation obtained by the Herald-Leader, among others. Tickets started at $3,300 per person. DeSantis gave Craft a late-game endorsement in the primary this year, which was recorded in a robocall sent to voters.

Craft, who has left the political spotlight in Kentucky as her primary opponent Attorney General Daniel Cameron takes on Gov. Andy Beshear in November, told followers to stay tuned regarding her next move recently. Trump endorsed Cameron in the gubernatorial primary before Craft entered the race, and

Trumps fundraiser in Lexington would not be his first event there. In 2019, the then-president attended and spoke at a rally for former GOP governor Matt Bevin at Rupp Arena the day before the election that year. Bevin lost in a narrow race to Beshear by about 5,000 votes. Trump also attended a fundraiser in Lexington in 2016 before his presidential win over Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. That event was hosted by the Crafts, who are nationally known GOP megadonors.

In 2022, Trump hosted a $75,000 per person fundraiser at the Kentucky Derby.
Former President Trump is defending his record on COVID-19, saying he never got the credit that I deserved on how he managed the pandemic as president.

I got a lot of good marks on economy. I got a lot of good marks on a lot of things. Rebuilding the military, getting rid of ISIS, the biggest tax cuts in history, Trump said in an interview on SiriusXMs The Megyn Kelly Show airing Thursday. I never got, I think, the credit that I deserved on COVID.

With much of his political base skeptical of coronavirus vaccines, Trump, the front-runner for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination, has tried to tread carefully when touting the success of his Operation Warp Speed, which developed highly effective and safe vaccines in record time.

In his interview with Kelly, Trump touted his accomplishments by quoting very smart Democrats who, he said, tell him that you saved a hundred million people worldwide with the vaccines.

Democrats have long criticized Trumps handling of the pandemic, both in terms of lives lost and the damage to the economy.

And Ill tell you, the way I look at it, it came in, and nobody knew what it was. We have to put ourselves back then. I had a meeting, and we had a lot of professionals in the Oval Office. They say, Sir, something bad is happening in the world. I said, Whats that? And they said, People are dying. Theyre dying in China, in this area, Trump said.

All of a sudden they had something where the first person died in the United States. And then another. And then it died  and then they started dying all over Italy and all over Europe. Nobody really knew what it was, Megyn, he added.

Public health officials have pushed back on such claims, and a 2022 report from the National Institutes of Health said, Not only the words, but also the substance, of the Trump administrations policy reaction to the pandemic suggest a tragic failure to proactively mount a focused, wholeofgovernment and wholeofsociety response to indications of a rapidly intensifying public health threat.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former President Donald Trump is set to return to South Carolina later this month, with a Lowcountry stop.

Trump is scheduled to speak at Sportsman Boats in Summerville on Sept. 25, two days before the second Republican presidential debate.

The stop will be close to home for two other Republican presidential hopefuls. U.S. Sen. Tim Scott lives in Charleston, and former Gov. Nikki Haley lives in Kiawah Island.

This would be Trumps fourth stop in South Carolina this year as he seeks the White House for the third time.

Trump rolled out his South Carolina leadership team at an event in the State House in January, drew tens of thousands of people to a rally in Pickens in July, and spoke at the S.C. GOP Silver Elephant Gala in August.

South Carolina remains a Trump stronghold after he won the states primary in 2016. He also carried the state in general election by 14 points in 2016 and by 12 points in 2020.

A new poll released Thursday by the Washington Post and Monmouth University showed Trump had a 28-point lead over Haley in the Palmetto State.

Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis are the only candidates so far to file to run in the South Carolina presidential primary, but other candidates are expected to file soon. The deadline to file is Oct. 31.

Doors for Trumps upcoming rally are scheduled to open at noon Sept. 25, with the event beginning at 3 p.m. at 113 Sportsman Way in Summerville.
Former President Trump railed against the impeachment trial of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R), arguing that RINOS  Republicans in name only  are attempting to undo Paxtons reelection last fall.

Texas Attorney General Paxton was easily re-elected last November, but now establishment RINOS are trying to undo that Election with a shameful impeachment of him, Trump wrote Thursday in a Truth Social post. Who would replace Paxton, one of the TOUGHEST & BEST Attorney Generals in the Country? Could it be a Democrat, or even worse, a RINO?

Paxtons impeachment trial is in its second week; he faces several counts of misconduct, including allegations of bribery, abuse of power and retaliation against whistleblowers. The charges are centered on the attorney generals dealings with friend and political donor Nate Paul, an Austin real estate investor.

Trumps comments echo those of Paxtons lawyers, who have argued voters still chose to reelect him even with news of his alleged misconduct.

The voters have decided who they want! the former president argued in his post. Democrats are feeling very good right now as they watch, as usual, the Republicans fight and eat away at each other. Its a SAD day in the Great State of Texas!

The trial comes after a multi-year FBI investigation into Paxton after multiple senior aides accused the embattled attorney general of using his office to help Paul, who was being investigated for fraud.

Paxton allegedly interfered in litigation for his friends benefit and gave him access to nonpublic information, while Paul allegedly helped pay for a renovation at Paxtons home. He was also accused of giving a job to a woman Paxton was having an affair with, according to the impeachment documents.

Katherine Missy Minter Cary, the former chief of staff in Paxtons office, testified in the trial earlier this week where she recounted giving ethics advice about the risks of an extramarital affair and warned of the impact his actions could have on office morale.

Prosecutors rested their case Wednesday after Laura Olson  the woman who allegedly had an affair with Paxton  was called to the stand before the trials judge, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R), and said she would not testify, without providing further explanation.

Paxtons defense lawyers are slated to begin presenting their defense Thursday.

Paul was arrested by the FBI in early June, shortly after the Texas House of Representatives voted 121-23 to impeach the attorney general. A state House investigative committee said it determined Paxton used, misused, or failed to use his official powers in a manner calculated to subvert the lawful operation of the government.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Trump says his own impeachment led to push for Bidens

Former President Trump suggested in a new interview that if Democrats had not impeached him during his time in office then House Republicans may not have launched an impeachment inquiry into President Biden.

I think had they not done it to me  perhaps you wouldnt have it being done to them. And this is going to happen with indictments, too, Trump told Megyn Kelly on her SiriusXM show.

Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) directed House committees this week to open a formal impeachment inquiry into Biden.

McCarthys formal endorsement of impeachment came after he said for weeks that he believed the House probes would eventually develop into an impeachment inquiry. He had faced growing pressure from conservative members of the House to move forward with an inquiry.

In the months that the House Oversight and Accountability Committee has been investigating the Biden family business dealings, it has not found that the president directly financially benefited from his son Hunter Bidens business dealings or proved that he made any policy decisions because of them.

Trump told Kelly that it is ultimately up to House members if they want to pursue impeachment proceedings against Biden, but the former president has not been shy about making his feelings on the matter known.

The former president wrote in a late August post on Truth Social that Republicans should impeach Biden, or they would fade into OBLIVION.

Trump, who is the front-runner for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination, was impeached twice during his four years in office.

The first time, in 2020, was over his attempts to pressure Ukrainian leadership to investigate the Biden family as his administration withheld military aid.

The second time came in 2021, in the days after the Jan. 6 riots at the Capitol, as Trump supporters stormed the complex to try to halt the certification of the 2020 election results. Trump had for weeks claimed the election was stolen and had urged his supporters to protest at the Capitol.

Trump has also been indicted four times this year, twice on federal charges. He told Kelly that his own criminal indictments have potentially changed the dynamics around whether the Justice Department should pursue investigations into political opponents.

As time goes by, youre going to see republicans when theyre in power doing it, Trump said.

I would think about it differently. Now, youd certainly have to think about it differently. It doesnt mean Id do it, he added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
FORT PIERCE, Fla.  He posts on social media for an audience of tens of millions and delivers speeches that have stretched for hours, veering off-script into diatribes that skewer his opponents and delight his supporters.

But after he raised the possibility this week that he could take the stand in his own defense in the four criminal cases he faces, Donald Trump could find himself staring down an audience made up not of his supporters but of 12 individual jurors who would hold his fate in their hands.

Just one person could hang a jury, acquitting the former president of the dozens of counts pooling around him.

Its why E. Jean Carroll sought in the trial in her civil lawsuit against Trump to remove a juror who prosecutors said listened to a notorious far-right podcaster, according to unsealed court documents.

And it could be why several of Trumps co-defendants in the Georgia case that charged him with trying to subvert the 2020 election moved to relocate it from Fulton County to federal court, where they could face a jury pool of people more likely to harbor friendlier political leanings.

Youre going to get a better jury pool, possibly more conservative people, as opposed to a liberal jurisdiction like Fulton County, former Georgia prosecutor Chris Timmons said.

The makeup of the panel is perhaps the earliest indicator of how the case will be decided and perhaps the last chance for the two sides to measurably shape a trials outcome.

Once jury selection is done, the case is over, said Lisa Blue Baron, a nationally renowned jury consultant and trial attorney.

The facts for Trump in the South Florida case are hardly in dispute  he has discussed keeping classified documents after leaving office.

Prosecutors and defense lawyers will largely ask jurors to decide whether Trumps known actions violated the law  which could make each jurors views on him even more relevant.

The evidence is the evidence, but everyone sees it through their own filter, said Blue Baron, who has a background as a forensic psychologist.

So central to a potential conviction is the impaneled jury that experts say there is little that can shake jurors loose from their intended verdict.

The verdict hinges almost entirely on who is impaneled in this case, said Geri Fischman, a trial consultant who specializes in juror behavior, who pointed to the pool attached to the Fort Pierce courthouse overseen by Aileen Cannon, a federal district judge whom Trump appointed to the bench in 2020.

Phil Reizenstein, a veteran Florida defense attorney and former Miami-Dade County prosecutor, said, Pick the right juror, youre going to win.

Weighing the charges in the classified documents probe  in which Trump is accused of having violated the Espionage Act by retaining classified documents after he left the White House and conspiring to thwart federal investigators efforts to retrieve them  is an expected jury drawn from Fort Pierce and its surrounding counties, where registered Republicans outnumber Democrats by roughly 3 to 2, according to federal election data.

Fort Pierce, the seat of the smallest of the five divisions of Floridas Southern District, draws its jurors from a handful of counties that heavily favored Trump in 2016 and 2020, except for one swing county.

To be in the Fort Pierce courthouse is inherently a win for the defense team, Fischman said.

In St. Lucie County, Trump won 50.4% of the vote  the closest contest compared to Highlands County (67%), Indian River County (60%), Martin County (62%) and Okeechobee County (72%).

President Trump Fort Pierce Welcomes You, read the highway-side sign of the Dirty Martini, a sunbaked watering hole pitched on the towns fringe, on the day of a routine hearing Trump wasnt scheduled to attend.

Jurors are known to defy expectations, even when they concern Trump, whose base of support has stood by him as his legal perils compound.

Taking the stand is one way for a defendant to throw a wrench into the defenses best-laid plans.

Its potentially suicide for any criminal defendant, said Tim Parlatore, an attorney for Trump who advised him in the Florida documents case before he left the defense team this year. It comes down to jury selection.

And the panel could convict Trump in spite of any political sympathies.

In the Carroll case, the juror Carrolls attorneys sought to strike ultimately joined eight others in delivering a unanimous verdict to convict Trump  charges the conservative podcaster the juror listened to has questioned on his show, according to a legal filing.

In the trial of Trumps 2016 campaign chairman, Paul Manafort, a self-identified Trump supporter left her red Make America Great Again hat in the car when she arrived at court to serve on the jury. Politics shouldnt play any part in a verdict, she said in an interview after the trial in Alexandria, Virginia, in 2018. But despite the jurors doubts about the investigation, she said she would have voted to convict Manafort on every count, but a lone holdout on the panel split the jury, which convicted Manafort on only some of the charges.

It was so frustrating, the juror said, adding that the holdout just couldnt explain to us why she had reasonable doubt. We could provide her with the information, but she wouldnt change her votes.

Before Cannon, the judge in the Florida documents case, set a trial date of May, federal prosecutors made the case that Trump should be treated like any other criminal defendant and face an expeditious timeline, even as his defense attorneys sought to postpone the trial until after the 2024 presidential election, arguing that the scope of the indictment made the timeline untenable.

But Fischman said Trumps footprint was impossible to ignore, a factor that surfaced in interviews with people who could find themselves weighing whether his actions fit the elements of the crime and whether they believe the evidence.

He is the public figure of all public figures, Fischman said. This feels like the Super Bowl of juror decision-making.

The logistics of the trial, which is scheduled to follow a civil fraud lawsuit against Trump in New York, a defamation case involving Carroll and Trumps criminal election interference case, threaten to bottleneck the South Florida town figuratively and literally once deliberations kick off in May.

The composition of the ultimate jury pool remains unknown  future jurors wont receive summonses until closer to the trial date.

Several people who live in the district and spoke with NBC News said they didnt want to go on the record with views critical of Trump, fearing that doing so would disrupt their personal relationships. Some said they werent sure that Fort Pierce, a town The New York Times has called a scruffy outpost, was equipped to handle the swell of outsiders expected to converge next year.

Others worried Trumps power and celebrity would help him evade charges.

Adreion Moorer, 23, said he was skeptical Trump would be held to account, even as court documents claimed that a maintenance worker at Mar-a-Lago, Trumps Palm Beach club, told another employee that the boss wanted security video deleted as authorities sought to retrieve it.

All the evidence thats against him? I believe he still will get off, because hes Donald Trump, Moorer said. How can you let people get away with it? Just because hes the former president. If the documents get into the wrong hands, America is in trouble.

If they dont send this man to jail, its going to be a problem, he added.

Lee Harris, 19, of Fort Pierce, said he was hopeful Trump could be tried fairly. Still, he said, Honestly, I think he deserves it.

Evan Sturgill, 25, a Fort Pierce resident who said he is no fan of Trump, joked, Im looking forward to the riots. Sturgill described the town he grew up in as being divided by income and race, divisions he said the case would further expose.

Thats not counting the thinking that sometimes support for Trump is under-polled, said Kendall Coffey, a former U.S. attorney for Southern Florida and a member of the legal team that represented Al Gore during the Florida ballot recount in the 2020 presidential election.

A Palm Beach trial attorney, who asked to remain anonymous, said that in a district that leans Trump, prosecutors could run out of strikes before you run out of Trumplicans.

Said South Florida criminal defense attorney and former Justice Department prosecutor Andrew Lourie: One of the biggest challenges to the government in both of these cases is going to be the jury and not putting people on the jury that are going to side with Trump no matter what the evidence is  like juror nullification, where theyre not going to rule against him for whatever reason, either because they love him or because they think that this is unfair because theyre treating him differently.

He added, The idea that even if theres proof and they agree that he violated the statute, theyll find a way to vote against an indictment, and that will just hang the jury.

In Georgia, where some of Trumps co-defendants have sought a venue change, defendants must meet a high bar to score one, said Joe Whitley, a former acting U.S. associate attorney general and U.S. attorney in Georgias Middle and then Northern federal districts. But Whitley said Trump faces challenging odds if he is tried in deep-blue Fulton County.

I think approximately 75% of the people that voted voted for Joe Biden here, Whitley said of Fulton County, where District Attorney Fani Willis brought the case. Thats a concern.

In July, Trump was denied a bid to move his hush-money payments case to a federal court in New York.

A factor that could shift the balance would be if Trump were to take the stand, some said.

The only thing that could change this is if Trump testifies, said Robert Hirschhorn, an attorney and jury selection expert who helped pick the Texas jury in the Robert Durst case.

Coffey said, Key is whether Trump will take the stand.

In an interview with Hugh Hewitt, Trump said last week that he intends to take the stand in his own defense  though he didnt say in which case. Oh, yes, absolutely, Trump said when he was asked whether he would testify.

Even so, Trump may not need such a radical measure. Really, all he needs is one juror, said Guy Lewis, a former U.S. attorney for Southern Florida, who was one of three federal prosecutors who helped convict former Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega of racketeering, drug smuggling and money laundering charges in 1992.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
An appellate judge has taken the remarkable step of hitting pause on the New York Attorney Generals upcoming bank fraud trial against Donald Trump granting the former presidents request in a surprise hearing on Thursday that was closed to the public.

Now, a full five-judge appellate panel is set to make a decision that could fundamentally alter the case on the eve of trial. And if they take longer than a few days, it will delay the trial altogether.

Appellate Justice David Friedmans rapid decisionfollowing a brief 3:45 p.m. virtual hearingacquiesced to Trumps frantic last-minute attempt to derail a trial that threatens to destroy his corporate empire. The former presidents lawyers have turned the heat on the judge overseeing this caseby suing him directly.

Trump was represented by Florida attorney Christopher Kise, according to court employee conversations overheard by this reporter. According to paperwork obtained by The Daily Beast, three lawyers from the AGs office were also present at the virtual hearing.

Shortly after the appellate judges decision, Attorney General Letitia James released a statement, saying, We are confident in our case and will be ready for trial.

In an emergency court filing Thursday morning, attorneys for the former president and his associates cited an urgency that required New Yorks higher courts to step in. They want an appellate judge to commence an Article 78 special proceeding against Justice Arthur F. Engoron, one that would force him to decimate a case brought by the AG.

Although he has yet to perform his lawful duty, Justice Engoron plans to proceed with the trial of the Attorney Generals claims on October 2, 2023just nineteen days from the date of this petition, attorneys Clifford S. Robert and Michael Madaio wrote.

Its a rare move of aggressionparticularly this close to trial, which was set to start on Oct. 2. But this has become Trumps preferred strategy in recent months, a far-fetched gamble hes currently trying against federal judges in Washington and West Palm Beach who remain utterly unswayed by his relentless attempts to violate their orders and delay cases.

Why Trumps New Argument in the New York AG Case Wont Save Him

Trumps lawyers filed a case before New Yorks First Department appellate court, which has repeatedly weighed in on this Trump case and many others originating from Manhattan.

Thursdays court filing claims Engoron and James are both acting to defy appellate orders that could narrow the AGs behemoth bank fraud lawsuit, putting the judge in the awkward position of having to use lawyers to defend himself alongside the AG. He is expected to be represented by the local court administrations own lawyers.

Trumps legal team says Engoron is overstepping his authority, and they want an appellate judge to put him in his place. Its the latest escalation against the trial court judge, who has increasingly grown tired of their delay antics.

This summer, a state appellate court ordered Engoron to figure out which real estate deals by the Trump Organization are too old for the AG to examine for potential bank and insurance fraud. The judge has yet to draw a cutoff, even though he is expected to do so in the coming days.

But Team Trump cant wait, and theyre itching to use this as a method to push back the trial. When they requested a three-week delay, Engoron immediately shot that down.

In Thursdays court filing, the Trump lawyers complained about the way Engoron was terse in his curt, nine-word order in which he simply wrote, Decline to sign; Defendants arguments are completely without merit.

They argued that the judges summary rejection demonstrates he has no intent to do so and deems the notion that he is bound by this courts mandate to be completely without merit, framing Engorons decision as an act of defiance.

The defense lawyers represent the former president, his sons Don Jr. and Eric, Trump Organization executives Allen Weisselberg and Jeffrey McConney, and various corporate entities.

The judge who made the decision to halt the trial, Friedman, has a reputation as a tough-on-crime judge who was appointed by Republican New York Gov. George Pataki in 1999.

Trump Actually Inflated Net Worth by $3.6 BILLION Per Year, New York AG Says

Trump, whos still the leading Republican primary candidate in 2024, is drowning in legal trouble thats increasingly hurting his presidential campaign. Starting in March, hell be in back-to-back criminal trials starting in Washington, then New York, then Floridaand possibly Georgia. Hes also trying to slink away from paying a nearly $1 million court sanction in West Palm Beach, now that his revenge lawsuit against one-time rival Hillary Clinton has blown up in his face.

But first in line is next months civil fraud trial, which threatens to obliterate the Trump Organization. The AG, whose team investigated the real estate tycoons finances for more than three years, is suing to snatch away what she calls $250 million-plus in fraudulent gains. She also wants to tear up the enterprises business licenses, choking off the Trump familys profit machine and barring them from running a corporation from the financial capital of the world.

James accuses Trump of completely fabricating billions of dollars in assets to commit bank and insurance fraud for more than a decade, hyperinflating just about every property imaginable, from his outlandishly decorated penthouse in Manhattan to his forested estate north of the city.

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.
Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) slammed the Biden administrations agreement with Iran to unfreeze $6 billion of funds in exchange for the release of five American prisoners, saying President Biden just keeps sponsoring problems across the world.

Joe Biden just lit a match to the Middle East. Israel has got to be on alert, Tuberville said during a Wednesday interview with Fox Business. [Iran is] so close to getting a nuclear weapon. Its scary  they might already have it. But [Biden] just keeps sponsoring problems across the world. Solve some problems here before you continue to send money every other place.

The Biden administrations agreement  which comes after more than a year of indirect negotiations with Iran  will issue a blanket waiver for international banks to allow the transfer of the $6 billion of Iranian funds frozen in South Korea to a bank in Qatar in exchange for the release of five American prisoners.

Pointing to House Republicans ongoing investigations into the Biden familys foreign business dealings, Tuberville claimed the Iran agreement helps take the heat off the president and his son.

Ive never seen such evidence that [the House has] got, Tuberville said. And it looks like theyre just trying to take the heat off them by doing crazy stuff all over the world and in our country also. So, this makes no sense, its madness.

Both sides of the aisle have criticized the deal, with Republican lawmakers and even a few Democrats expressing concerns it will encourage hostile nations to take more Americans traveling abroad as hostages in the future.

Some Republicans have also argued the move would free up resources for Irans military spending and support of terrorism.

Talks surrounding the deal began last month after Iran moved four of the prisoners out of a prison in Tehran to house arrest. A fifth U.S. citizen was already at the location.

The funds were proceeds from Irans oil sales to South Korea that were frozen by the U.S. when relations between the two countries faltered.

U.S. officials said the $6 billion was to only be used for food, medicine and other humanitarian goods, though Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi said the funds will be spent wherever we need it.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
ANKARA, Turkey  Turkish missile-maker Roketsan has won a contract to sell 108 Karaok anti-tank guided weapons to Malaysia, according to government and industry sources.

This is the first export contract for the Karaok system, Turkish officials said. The officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, did not formally confirm the deal because they were not authorized to speak to the media.

One procurement official said Roketsan defeated three rivals to win the Malaysian contract, including contenders from South Korea and China. An industry source estimated the contract price at around $20 million.

Defense News has contacted Roketsan and the Malaysia Embassy in Turkey for further information on those who bid for the contract, as well as the sales value.

One Roketsan official said the Karaok system is capable of engaging and destroying armor and fortified bunkers at a distance of 2-4 kilometers (1.2-2.5 miles).

The Karaok features imaging, infrared homing guidance. The weapons diameter is 125mm diameter, it weighs less than 16 kilograms (35 pounds), and the system incorporates an armor-piercing tandem warhead. It offers both direct and overhead strike modes with a fire-and-forget mode.

The Karaok system will come with six missiles for each launcher  18 launchers in total. The system will also include indoor and outdoor simulators as well as test equipment.

Once in service, the Karaok system will replace the Soviet-era Metis-M currently fitted on four-wheel drive G-Wagen vehicles. The Karaok weapons will be deployed on Cendana Auto light armored vehicles.

The Karaok is the Turkish equivalent of the FGM-148 Javelin guided anti-tank missile, jointly produced by Lockheed Martin and RTX. The American-made weapon has recently gained notoriety from its use by Ukraine as it fights off a Russian invasion.

Roketsan began to develop the Karaok in 2016. The company showcased the system at the IDEF exhibition in Istanbul in 2019. The Karaok successfully completed its first guided test fire in 2020 and entered the Turkish militarys inventory in 2022. The Turkish Army has ordered 300 Karaok systems.
(Bloomberg) -- As Turkey and the European Union engaged in a new effort to revive the countrys stalled membership talks, Ankara criticized the European Parliament insistence on cooperation in enforcing sanctions against Russia.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Turkey is coming under increasing pressure from the EU and the US to join their campaign to punish Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. While implementing binding United Nations penalties, Turkey is refusing to join any other sanctions efforts on grounds that could complicate its self-declared mediation attempts between Kyiv and Moscow.

At the Group of 20 summit in New Delhi last weekend, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged several leaders to meet some of Russias demands to try to revive the Black Sea deal that had allowed Ukrainian grain shipments and eased global food prices.

The US and its allies have resisted calls to ease the sanctions that he suggested.

Earlier: Erdogan Urges G-20 to Meet Russian Demands on Grain Deal

EU Commissioner Oliver Varhelyi welcomed Turkeys efforts to revive the grain agreement, but urged its government to cooperate with the bloc.

It is essential that Turkey remains engaged with the EU, also on the implementation of sanctions against Russia, in particular as regards the sanctioned products, Varhelhi said in his opening remarks as the European Parliament revealed its non-binding resolution on Wednesday.

Turkeys Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the parliament report was a collection of unfounded allegations and prejudices and demonstrated that its members fail to develop the right strategic approach to the EU, as well as to our region.

The ministry added that updating a Customs Union deal with the EU and finalizing visa liberalization talks for Turkish citizens without delay were the common objectives of Turkey and the bloc at the moment.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
The Turlock City Council has rescinded plans for 50 apartments made from shipping containers.

Tuesdays 5-0 decision came five months after the council voted 3-2 to seek a $9.95 million state grant for the project. The city staff has since learned that the program requires that most of the homes be permanent rather than transitional.

The South Walnut Road project would have served seniors and veterans at risk of becoming homeless. The city owns the 2.5-acre site in a mostly industrial zone south of West Main Street.

Nearby businesses complained in April that the project would increase theft, trash dumping and other problems. Supporters said the residents would have to sign contracts promising to behave well and to get counseling and other services they might need.

Mayors pledge to neighbors

Mayor Amy Bublak said Tuesday that she supported the initial plan because the container homes eventually would go away.

We told the public in that area that this would be transitional, it would not be permanent, she said.

Council members Cassandra Abram and Rebecka Monez also favored the project in April. Members Kevin Bixel and Pam Franco were opposed.

Franco on Tuesday noted that she dissented also because of this high cost per unit, nearly $200,000.

The funding would have come from the Homekey program at the California Department of Housing and Community Development. It seeks quick-turnaround solutions for the homeless.

Texas company reuses containers

Turlock had planned to partner with Customer Container 915, based in El Paso, Texas. The business converts used shipping containers into small homes with up-to-code wiring, plumbing, heating, cooling and other systems.

The project would have helped Turlock transition people from emergency shelters to longer-term homes, said Katie Quintero, development services director for the city.

A federal court ruling allows local governments to enforce anti-camping ordinances only if they have enough shelter beds.
The North Carolina mountains boast stunning fall foliage  and are home to two of the best places to visit this autumn, a new report finds.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park ranks No. 2 and Asheville ranks No. 5 on a list of destinations that offer travelers seasonal activities and the ideal weather conditions for enjoying them, according to results published in August.

To create the list, U.S. News & World Report said it focused on destinations in the United States, Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean. The website considered whether the fall  which it defined as September to November  was a recommended time to visit each place.

Asheville ranks as a top fall vacation destination. This file photo was taken at nearby Navitat Canopy Adventures. John D. Simmons/jsimmons@charlotteobserver.com

Before choosing the winners, U.S. News gathered thousands of votes from people who went online to weigh in on their favorite places, senior editor Elizabeth Von Tersch said in an email to McClatchy News. The website also scored destinations on the categories of sights, culture, people, food, family, nightlife, adventure, romance, value and accessibility.

Whether youre seeking scenic drives through fall foliage, less-crowded hikes through national parks or a post-summer beach vacation, autumn is an opportune time to get away, U.S. News wrote in its report, adding that fall travelers also may pay less for their trips and experience mild temperatures during their stays.

Why were the Smokies, Asheville named top destinations?

Of the North Carolina destinations on the list, the Great Smoky Mountains ranked the highest at No. 2. The national park site, portions of which lie in Tennessee, is one of the most visited in the country.

This national park is home to multiple hiking trails, tumbling waterfalls and all kinds of wildlife, U.S. News wrote in its report. As temperatures cool, the park becomes a perfect place for leaf peeping.

Dont miss your chance to see fall leaves! The lower elevations of the park have already reached their peak for... Posted by Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Tuesday, November 9, 2021

While the parks trees can start changing colors at higher elevations in mid-September, rangers said leaves in lower areas often hit their peak between mid-October and early November.

Also receiving a nod for its proximity to fall foliage was the popular mountain tourist town of Asheville, landing the No. 5 spot on U.S. News list.

Visit the city between early October and early November to see the most vibrant colors on the surrounding mountains, the website wrote. And you cant miss sampling the citys tasty craft beers: Asheville is home to several dozen breweries, serving everything from sours and pilsners to IPAs and porters.





Asheville is no stranger to being recognized for its drinking scene, having been named one of the nations best cities for beer lovers in August. The city ranked No. 1 on U.S. News fall vacation list last year, when it was praised for its seasonal festivals and sunny but cool weather, McClatchy News reported.

On the latest list, U.S. News said the best place to travel to this fall is Zion National Park in Utah. Rounding out the top five:

The Finger Lakes in New York at No. 3

Toronto, Canada, at No. 4

This small town in NC ranks No. 1 on a list of best mountain destinations. Heres why

Two NC cities rank among best places to live in Southeast. What makes them special?

This North Carolina city ranks among nations best places for families. Heres why

Best hospitals in North Carolina? These are top places to receive care, report finds
The Prosecutor General's Office reported that Russian soldiers who killed a security guard in Bucha have been identified

Two Russian officers responsible for the killing of an unarmed civilian in Bucha on Feb. 27, 2022, have been identified and charged, the Prosecutor Generals Office announced in a press release on Sep. 14.

According to the press release, two commanders in the 76th Air Assault Division of the Russian Federation stand accused of violating the laws and customs of war, coupled with deliberate murder. These actions carry sentences ranging from ten to fifteen years in prison to life imprisonment.

Read also: Ukraine's prosecutors name first suspect in Bucha massacre  he calls it slander

The Prosecutor Generals Office has not made the names of the accused officers public as of the time of publishing.

The investigation revealed that on Feb. 27, 2022, during the movement of a column of Russian troops through Bucha, one of the senior officers issued orders to his subordinates identifying anyone dressed in black attire as potential enemies.

Read also: 195 bodies of murdered civilians still not identified, up to 300 still missing in Kyiv Oblast

Subsequently, soldiers from the 1st self-propelled artillery battery, under the command of the second officer, spotted a man near a Novus supermarket clad in black attire.

The man was unarmed and posed no threat to the occupiers. Nonetheless, the soldiers opened fire with automatic firearms, killing him instantly.

Russian troops entered Bucha during the initial days of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine. After the Russian occupiers fled from Kyiv Oblast at the end of March 2022, hundreds of bodies showing signs of torture were found in the town and the surrounding area.

On April 14, the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraines Parliament, officially recognized Russia and its army as commiting acts of genocide against the Ukrainian people.

Read also: The New York Times unveils new evidence of Russian war crimes in Bucha

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Two weeks on the run: Escaped Pa. killer survived on watermelon and planned a carjacking to Canada

Danelo Cavalcante, the convicted murderer who spent two weeks on the run after a daring prison break, survived by eating watermelon from a farm and hiding his fecal matter and had planned a carjacking to flee the state, officials have revealed.

Cavalcante, convicted of killing his ex-girlfriend in front of her two young children, escaped Chester County Prison in Pocopson Township on Aug. 31. After two weeks of an exhaustive search, the 34-year-old was captured Wednesday morning.

After he was caught, Cavalcante confessed to investigators his plans to slip out of the country and divulged how he survived on the lam, Robert Clark, the supervisory deputy U.S. Marshal in the eastern district of Pennsylvania, said on NBC News Top Story with Tom Llamas Wednesday night.

Early in the investigation he stated that he had found watermelons on a watermelon farm, and he was living off watermelon, he was drinking from the stream, he was moving at night only," Clark said.

Despite multiple sightings that left Chester County on high alert, he hid by hunkering down under thick, practically impassable brush. He also changed his appearance after he took a backpack from a residence, found a razor inside and shaved.

He went so far as to hide his fecal matter so that law enforcement wouldnt be able to determine the spots where he was bending down, Clark said.

Cavalcante told authorities after his arrest that he had intended to carjack somebody using a rifle he stole from a garage Monday evening.

His end game was to carjack somebody, thats why he needed to obtain a weapon, thats why he held onto that rifle," Clark said. "He said the law enforcement presence was overwhelming in the area of the second perimeter and he decided he wanted to carjack somebody and head north either towards Canada or he intended to get to Puerto Rico."

"That was his plan in the next 24 hours so there wasnt a better time for us to locate and apprehend him," he added.

Clark noted the environmental factors in the search were arduous: extreme heat, thick vegetation and sprawling wilderness.

Ultimately, when we conducted a post-arrest interview, he admitted to those factors. There were times, at least three times, where law enforcement officers were almost stepping on him, and the area was saturated so he felt that he needed to move locations, Clark said.

Danelo Cavalcante Captured (Pennsylvania State Police via Getty Images)

He explained that the goal in nabbing Cavalcante was to set up a tactical perimeter, cut off resources, prevent communication to the outside world and stress out the fugitive  "make him make mistakes, make him move."

That plan finally came to fruition Wednesday.

A U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration aircraft picked up a heat signature believed to be Cavalcante around 1 a.m. Wednesday and teams flocked to the area. But severe weather moved in and the aircraft had to leave the area. Tactical teams held that inner perimeter overnight until they could continue tracking the heat signal in the morning.

Shortly after 8 a.m. Wednesday, a Border Patrol tactical unit (BORTAC) and Pennsylvania State Police Team closed in.

"He was given verbal commands to come out of the hiding spot that he was in. He did not. He actually started crawling away and at that point the tactical canine was release," Clark said.

That's when Yoda, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois BORTAC K9, bit Cavalcante on the crown of the head and a lower extremity.

Yoda, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois, aided in the arrest of Danelo Cavalcante. (U.S. Customs and Border Protection)

"I'm sure Cavalcante was in excruciating pain. He then submitted to some of the verbal commands and the tactical teams were able to take him into custody," Clark said.

Pennsylvania authorities held a news conference Wednesday morning announcing the long-awaited capture. Photos of his arrest showed Cavalcante handcuffed and wearing a Philadelphia Eagles hoodie.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said on NBCs "TODAY" show Thursday morning that he was "incredibly proud" not only of law enforcement, but of Chester County residents who "remained vigilant."

"There was no loss of life, there was no threat in the community, thank God, and ultimately at the end of the day we found ourselves in the position of seeing the best of law enforcement. Law enforcement at every level  state, local and federal  coming together to apprehend this suspect, to capture him without incident."

Cavalcante was convicted Aug. 16 of first-degree murder for fatally stabbing a 33-year-old former girlfriend Deborah Brandao and had been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. He is also wanted in his native Brazil in connection with a 2017 slaying there.

Since his prison break, he has been hit with a felony escape charge.

He was moved Wednesday afternoon to a maximum security prison in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.

Our nightmare is finally over, and the good guys won, Deb Ryan, the Chester County district attorney, said Wednesday after Cavalcante was taken into custody.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Thirty hours separated a pair of deadly Springfield shootings. Two weeks after the respective incidents, no charges have been filed.

Springfield Police said they're still investigating the unrelated shootings, both involving vehicles and the deaths of two local business owners.

Few details have been released about the shootings, including the first that stemmed from an apparent road rage incident.

"These cases warrant further investigation including analysis of evidence and report completion and then coordination with the prosecutors office will follow," SPD spokeswoman Cris Swaters said.

On Aug. 30 around 6:30 p.m., SPD received calls about two vehicles hitting each other on North Glenstone Avenue near the freeway exit before the conflict continued westbound.

Officers were then alerted that a man had been shot at Kansas Expressway near the Interstate 44 onramp. When they arrived, they found Michael D. Miller, 39, of Walnut Grove, outside of his vehicle with multiple gunshot wounds.

Miller, the owner of the dog training, boarding and grooming business MMK9 at 1416 East St. Louis Street, died at a local hospital.

Investigators detained the unnamed shooter, who stayed on the scene until police arrived. He was interviewed and released pending the results of the investigation.

The shooter appears to have claimed self-defense. Missouri has a Stand Your Ground law, which says someone can "use physical force upon another person when and to the extent he or she reasonably believes such force to be necessary to defend himself or herself or a third person from what he or she reasonably believes to be the use or imminent use of unlawful force by such other person."

The law also says "A person does not have a duty to retreat ... From a dwelling, residence, or vehicle where the person is not unlawfully entering or unlawfully remaining.

Missouri also has a very similar Castle Doctrine law, which allows a defendant to use deadly force when he or she reasonably believes it necessary to defend against the use of force by an assailant unlawfully attempting to enter a home or vehicle.

The circumstances that led to the Sept. 1 death of Cole M. Marcinek, 24, are also unclear.

Marcinek, a popular Springfield barber and owner of Cole Cutz on 1700 West College Street, succumbed to gunshot wounds after reports of a 12:30 a.m. shooting at 1632 W. Berkeley St.

Police arrived at the scene and found another man with a gunshot wound was in stable condition. SPD then learned that Marcinek apparently left the scene of the shooting before he was found in his SUV parked in the roadway near Sunset Street and Grant Avenue. He was discovered with multiple gunshot wounds and died in the vehicle.

SPD interviewed witnesses, but no arrests appear to have followed.

Springfield has had 14 homicide cases in 2023. There were 19 homicide cases in 2022, 26 in 2021 and 28 in 2020.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Springfield police have made no arrests in separate shooting deaths
Two women were killed after a Wednesday night shooting outside a Merion Village bar.

The shooting was reported around 11:30 p.m. Wednesday outside Double D's Pub, located at 1501 S. High St.

Columbus police said 24-year-old Tavia Copley, of the West Side, died at the scene.

Another woman, 24-year-old Taya Mollette, also of the West Side, was taken to an area hospital but died from her injuries at 12:29 a.m. Thursday.

People have placed signs, balloons, flowers and candles at Double D's Pub, 1501 S. High St., where two women were shot and killed Wednesday night.

Police said a third adult was also injured in the shooting and remains hospitalized but is expected to survive. No motive or suspect information was released by police.

Erick Bellomy Jr. of Franklinton was a friend of Copley's. He said they grew up in the Southern Pines neighborhood on the city's South Side.

Bellomy said Conley went to the Double D for a pre-birthday get-together. Copley was to have turned 25 on Friday.

"She was celebrating early. It ended up in a tragic situation where she cant celebrate her birthday," Bellomy said.

Copley also had a son who is about to turn 2, Bellomy said.

Bellomy is also the Ohio lead for Brady, the national anti-gun violence group. Bellomy lost his 44-year-old father in 2017 during an attempted robbery.

"Here we are again. I'm so tired of continuing to work on this issue and getting gut punched," he said.

"I'm just shocked. I feel defeated. This is one of those instances where I feel absolutely defeated," he said.

Double D's Pub was closed Thursday night. Outside, people had created a memorial, placing candles along a fence and putting signs on a post while tying balloons and flowers to the fence.

Kris Jude, 26, of the South Side was sitting in a vehicle outside the bar along High Street, smoking a cigarette. He was there the night before and said Copley was there to shoot pool. He said he was inside the bar when the shooting happened outside. After describing that to a reporter, the driver of vehicle pulled away.

Anyone with information is asked to call detectives at 614-645-4730 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS. All tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous.

Columbus police also announced Thursday the arrest of a suspect in a fatal Southeast Side shooting that occurred nearly one month ago.

Around 7:05 p.m. on Aug. 15, police got a call about an apartment door being open at an apartment on the 4600 block of Refugee Road. Officers found 19-year-old Jaijuan Jenkins, who had been shot, inside the apartment. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Columbus police said 18-year-old Jaylon Wilson, of the East Side, was arrested at an unspecified out of state location on Tuesday. Wilson has been charged with murder in connection with Jenkins' death.

Wilson will be extradited back to Ohio at a later date to face charges.

Dispatch reporter Mark Ferenchik contributed to this story.

bbruner@dispatch.com

@bethany_bruner

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Two women killed in shooting at Merion Village pub, no suspects
US caver rescued after days-long climb from 1,000 meters deep in Turkish cave

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - An American caver rescued after being trapped underground in southern Turkey for 11 days said on Thursday he was blessed to be alive after suffering a gastrointestinal bleed while 1,040 metres deep - but that he would go on exploring caves.

Mark Dickey, 40, was rescued early on Tuesday after being trapped in the Morca cave in Mersin province's Taurus Mountains. He was transferred to Mersin City Hospital, where he is receiving treatment.

"I really am blessed to be alive. It's been a tough time," Dickey said in a news conference at the hospital.

More than 150 cave rescuers from Turkey, Croatia, Italy and other countries worked to rescue Dickey from Turkey's third-deepest cave, and Dickey said he had never lost hope.

"I will definitely continue to explore caves. There is risk in all of life and, in this case, the medical emergency that occurred was completely unpredicted," Dickey said.

"Will I go back to Morca cave? I would love to."

(Reporting by Ali Kucukgocmen; Writing by Daren Butler; Editing by Kevin Liffey)
U.S. Sen. John Cornyn speaks to delegates during the Republican Party of Texas 2022 Convention in Houston last year. Credit: Justin Rex for The Texas Tribune

WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, said Thursday he supports House Republicans impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden , though he expressed a less enthusiastic attitude earlier this summer.

President Biden has committed the sorts of acts that warrant an impeachment inquiry, so I dont have any trouble with an impeachment inquiry, Cornyn said during a call with reporters. I think there's been more than enough smoke to warrant a continued investigation into the president's activities, particularly with regard to his son's actions.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-California, launched an impeachment inquiry into Biden on Tuesday amid growing pressure from his partys right flank. An inquiry does not necessarily mean that the House will eventually vote on whether to impeach the president, but is a major step in that process.

The inquiry focuses on Hunter Biden, the presidents son who has been the subject of House Republican probes for months. House investigators uncovered Hunter Biden repeatedly using his relationship with his father to benefit his business dealings. None of the numerous investigations, including under former President Donald Trumps Justice Department, have yet proven that Joe Biden ever abused his office to benefit his son.

Separately from the congressional probes, Hunter Biden was indicted Thursday and is accused of making false statements and illegal gun possession. Hed previously planned to plead guilty to misdemeanor tax violations, but that plea deal fell apart.

Many Senate Republicans, meanwhile, had been tepid to an impeachment, questioning if there is sufficient evidence. If President Biden were impeached in the House, a trial on whether to convict him would take place in the Senate. Several Republicans in both chambers have also questioned if an impeachment effort would derail their most pressing priority  staving off a government shutdown when funding runs out at the end of the month.

Cornyn has previously questioned how effective an impeachment effort would be when Democrats control the Senate. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-New York, has made it clear he has no interest in entertaining impeachment.

It really comes to how do you prioritize your time? Cornyn told The Hill before McCarthy launched his impeachment inquiry. Rather than doing something they know is unlikely to end the way they would like, maybe they want to emphasize other things.

Cornyn also suggested at the time that House Republicans can use their majority to continue investigating Biden without the need to launch a formal impeachment. Unlike the Texas Legislature, the majority party controls the chairmanships of all committees in the U.S. House, giving them subpoena power.

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Cruz, has long been a vocal supporter of an impeachment inquiry into Biden.

Democrats denounced the impeachment inquiry as a political attack and retaliation for the two Trump impeachments.

This stuff with Hunter Biden is not comparable, Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-San Antonio, said in a statement after McCarthy launched the inquiry. Castro was a manager of Trumps second impeachment in 2021.

McCarthy faces pressure from both his centrist and far-right members. While some ultraconservative Republicans have threatened to derail McCarthy if he fails to move forward with an impeachment, centrists and battle ground members feared an impeachment could alienate them from their voters.

An impeachment inquiry strikes a middle ground between the two camps by moving the ball on impeachment while allowing centrist members to say they are simply trying to learn more before making a decision on impeachment. An overwhelming majority of Texas Republicans in the House supported the impeachment inquiry.

An impeachment inquiry is justified and necessary to provide the House with the additional investigative tools to uncover all the facts to make a final decision, U.S. Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-Lubbock, said in a statement.

The House Oversight and Accountability Committee will lead the impeachment inquiry, working in tandem with the Judiciary and Ways and Means committees.

Cornyn has emphasized in the past that House Republicans dont often welcome Senators weighing in on their business and telling them what to do. But he added Thursday that he hopes House Republicans do their homework and do their due diligence as they prepare the case and follow the facts wherever they may lead.

The Texas Tribune Festival is almost here! Join us Sept. 21-23 in downtown Austin for 125+ unforgettable conversations featuring nearly 300 speakers. Be there for Texas biggest politics and policy event when you buy your tickets today.
Members of the United Auto Workers could strike on Friday, September 15 at midnight.

The latest news out of the union suggests all members might not strike at once.

If the UAW's approach is to target certain plants, automakers are still in trouble.

If members of the United Auto Workers union strike on Friday, as is looking likely, the impact on Ford, General Motors, and Jeep-maker Stellantis will be monumental  even if not every automaker or factory is targeted.

The auto workers' union and the Detroit 3 carmakers have been negotiating for months now, hoping to reach an agreement on new contracts before the hard deadline of Thursday, September 14 at 11:59 p.m.

The union is asking for increased wages, cost of living adjustments, the return of pensions, cutting its tiered work system (where pay is based on seniority), and more. But even after much back-and-forth with Ford, GM, and Stellantis, it appears the two sides may not reach an agreement by Thursday night, triggering a strike.

The UAW can strike in a few ways, but typically, members have gone on strike against just one of the three Detroit automakers rather than all three at once. An agreement reached at what is known as the "lead company" is then used as a pattern for agreements at the other two companies.

The union has targeted specific auto plants in the past, though it has been about 30 years since they used this approach.

This time around, the UAW has suggested a portion of its nearly 150,000 members are planning the targeted approach again  but at all three companies instead of just one.

"We will not strike all of our facilities at once," UAW President Shawn Fain said during a live-streamed speech on Wednesday. "We will strike all three companies, a historic first, initially at a limited number of targeted locations that we will be announcing."

Big ticket plants on the chopping block

That strategy could certainly hit the automakers where it hurts.

"At the beginning, a select few are going to strike and then as needed more are going to join in," Fain said. "We're going to hit where we need to hit and when we need to hit, we're going to hit to move mountains."

From the union's perspective, targeting the Detroit 3's factories where they churn out the most profitable products, especially SUVs and pickup trucks, is the most logical. While a lot of truck production has moved to Mexico in the last several years, all three Detroit companies have some form of pickup truck production based in the US.

Ford, GM, and Stellantis have capitalized off ultra-high margin vehicles in recent years. All three Detroit car makers have whittled down their lineups to abandon cheaper sedans and starter cars in lieu of luxury SUVs and pickups.

These moves have allowed Ford, GM, and Stellantis to cut costs on manufacturing (sometimes through plant closures) and vehicle development while funneling more cash toward new technologies like electric vehicles. With fewer factories and smaller  albeit more profitable  lineups, even a targeted strike at any of the Detroit three could have a disastrous effect.

Even as inventories build up and smaller cars start to come back, automakers are still being sneaky  holding supply and deals close to their chest. Automakers have even been willing to sacrifice market share for the profits they get from these costly cars.

If the UAW cuts off the Detroit auto companies' precious money-making factories, that could have a broader impact.

Impact across the board

Not only would a work stoppage impact the Detroit 3, the effects would reverberate throughout the industry.

Especially in the last decade as the automotive industry has globalized its supply chain, the manufacturing process at any single factory is just one part in a complex web. Even a single plant going down can create a domino effect across the industry, as seen several times throughout the pandemic when minor closures due to Covid outbreaks would leave lasting impacts on sales and inventory.

If the UAW strike takes down Detroit 3 production, that will impact the hundreds of suppliers that provide parts to these companies. Suppliers struggled after the last UAW strike, during which workers halted production at GM for 40 days.

This could be much more substantial  and if the Detroit 3 suppliers are in trouble, any other automaker that relies on those parts companies to keep their assembly plants running will see an impact, too. That's where the threat to the whole industry comes in.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The United Auto Workers union is set to go on strike at midnight Thursday, but workers at two major Kansas City employers dont know yet if they will be walking the picket lines.

Shortly before the unions contract expires, the UAW is expected to announce which plants will be affected by the targeted strike.

In Kansas City, Kansas, the General Motors Fairfax assembly plant produces the Chevy Malibu sedan and the Cadillac XT4 crossover SUV. It employs 2,234 people, according to a company website.

In Claycomo, the Ford assembly plant produces F-150 pickup trucks and Transit vans. It employs roughly 7,250 people.

The union and Detroits three automakers remain far apart in contract talks, the Associated Press reported Thursday afternoon. The UAW is demanding a 36% boost in pay and the automakers  General Motors, Ford and Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler  have countered with offers that are roughly half of that increase.

Late Wednesday, in an online address, UAW President Shawn Fain said the automakers continue to reject some of the unions demands.

We do not yet have offers on the table that reflect the sacrifices and contributions our members have made to these companies, Fain said. To win were likely going to have to take action. We are preparing to strike these companies in a way theyve never seen before.

The strike would be the first against all three companies at the same time in the unions 80-year history.

UAW Local 249, which represents members at the Claycomo plant, posted Wednesday on X  formerly known as Twitter  instructions if a strike occurred.

If the plant is struck, you will be instructed to leave the Plant by UAW Local Leadership, an attachment in the post read.

Members were also given a strike schedule.

In the event of a strike, all active members must participate in strike duties to be eligible for strike assistance, the attachment said. Your strike duties have been assigned to you by the Local Strike Committee. Participation may be picket duty, strike information classes or any other strike related assignment.

Local union leaders could not be reached for comment Thursday.
Detroits Big Three carmakers and the union representing their employees are careening toward a work stoppage beginning as soon as midnight Thursday.

The contract negotiations will directly affect the roughly 150,000 members of the United Auto Workers employed at General Motors, Ford and Stellantis. And it carries profound implications for the industry, the economy and President Joe Biden s political standing  as well as his pledges to build a U.S. manufacturing renaissance based on countering climate change.

"At this hour, it's very likely that there will be a strike, Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) told POLITICO on Thursday afternoon. People are very quickly going to be reminded that the auto industry is the backbone of the American economy. It will have trickle-down effects that will be felt immediately."

Heres what to know as the two sides continue to deliberate:

Whens the deadline?

The four-year contracts signed in 2019 are set to run out at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time Thursday night. The expiration of the current deals would not automatically trigger a strike, though it is unlikely UAW would hold off on calling a work stoppage unless it believes it was nearing an agreement and that a strike would damage those efforts.

UAW President Shawn Fain said in a Wednesday evening message to members on Facebook Live that, absent a breakthrough, the union planned to strike at an unspecified number of sites at each of the three companies.

He said he would announce the targeted plants at 10 p.m. Thursday.



Fain called the limited set of initial strike targets a novel tactic for the union, which would allow it to demonstrate its displeasure with the automakers existing offers while letting it dial up the pressure if the talks drag on.

The union is calling it a stand-up strike, harkening back to the 1936 sit-down strike in Flint, Mich., against GM that established the UAWs power.

Striking workers will be eligible to receive $500 per week from a $825 million UAW warchest. Theoretically that would cover all 146,000 members to be on strike for approximately 11 weeks, and could allow a strike to persist even longer under Fains more-limited strategy.

People at Ford expressed frustration Thursday afternoon at UAWs pace of negotiations, and said the unions strike plans would be very disruptive to workers across the industry and eventually its supply chains.

They suggested that a shutdown at one plant could have downstream effects at others, and that Ford wouldnt continue to pay people who were out of work due to the downstream effects of a strike. The people were granted anonymity to discuss Ford's position in the ongoing negotiations.

What does the union want?

The unions initial demands included a pay boost of about 40 percent plus future cost-of-living increases. The UAW has argued that that amount is approximately what executives compensation at the companies has risen in recent years, and that workers deserve comparable raises.

Full-time employees at the three companies earn more than $30 per hour under the existing contract, and part-time workers earn roughly half that amount.

The UAW is also fighting to curtail a two-tiered wage structure put in place after the late 2000s auto industry bailout, under which newer employees received less generous pay and benefits than their more-tenured peers  creating disparities that persist for years.

The union has also pushed for better retirement and health benefits for its members, limitations on the use of temporary workers, the imposition of a four-day workweek and additional protections in the event of plant closures.



The companies counter that the unions demands are unrealistic and that the increased labor costs would raise car prices and put them at a severe disadvantage with foreign automakers and non-unionized U.S. competitors like Tesla.

The trio previously countered by offering raises between 9 and 14.5 percent, though they have since come up a bit and two sides have moved toward one another in recent days.

GM said at noon Thursday that it had presented yet another offer that morning, and that we remain in continuous, direct, and good faith negotiations with the UAW. It added: Any disruption would negatively impact our employees and customers, and would have an immediate ripple effect across our communities.

GM's offer on Thursday included a 20 percent wage increase over the course of the contract, in line with what Ford has proposed.

Ford spokesperson Jessica Enoch said Thursday afternoon that the company is still waiting for a response from the union to its latest offer. "We want to negotiate but we have not received a counteroffer yet," she said.

What are the stakes?

Democrats, especially those in Michigan and other competitive Midwestern states, are anxiously keeping tabs on the state of the negotiations. For many of them, labor unions  and the UAW in particular  are a key part of their political constituency, and a big contract win could energize those members ahead of 2024.

At the same time, the economic ripple effects of a protracted strike could cause shortages on car lots, push parts suppliers to the brink and potentially erode the record-high public support for unions.

As it stands, Americans support a possible UAW strike against the car companies by a 2-1 ratio, according to a Morning Consult survey released Monday.

The unions demands are also complicating the industrys ongoing shift from internal combustion to electric vehicles, a transformation that the Biden administration is trying to prod along with tightened environmental regulations and many billions of dollars in incentives. The UAW worries that these new plants wont employ the same number of workers, or pay them as well, as the previous generation of car lines  or will cut out union labor entirely.

A lengthy strike could also crimp the Big Threes grand plans to scale up EV production, creating an opening for foreign-owned or non-unionized car companies to strengthen their positions for that growing market.

Wheres Biden?

Biden frequently boasts of being the most union-friendly president since Franklin Delano Roosevelt. However, the White House is juggling competing priorities of wanting to stand behind organized labor, protecting the economy and supporting the transition to EVs  a balancing act that has caused some tension between the administration and the UAW.

The White House has enlisted a number of other top officials including senior adviser Gene Sperling to closely monitor negotiations while not directly intervening, continuing a policy it has deployed in other recent high-profile contract fights, such as the one between United Postal Service and the Teamsters.

Biden himself has reached out directly to Fain, and called all three Big Three executives in recent weeks to encourage them to provide more forward-leaning offers and stay at the table, according to a person familiar with the conversations. The person was granted anonymity to discuss the behind-the-scenes communications.

The president spoke again with Fain and the auto executives, the White House said Thursday.

What were doing is were urging the parties to stay at the table, work 24/7 to negotiate a win-win solution that works for workers, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said Thursday on MSNBC. Government officials are not at the table during those conversations, but what we are doing is urging the parties to get that agreement thats going to make sense for workers and build that next generation of middle class jobs."

The president dismayed allies in organized labor late last year when the White House stepped in with Congress to block a potential nationwide strike in the freight rail industry that risked shattering the U.S. supply chain. Administration officials argue there were unique factors in play in that situation and that they support the collective bargaining process.

Guaranteed sick leave was one of the biggest sticking points in those negotiations, and the rail worker unions subsequently received some concessions from the freight operators in the months following the saga.

Biden is a self-professed motorhead and made the auto industrys turnaround a feature of the 2012 election cycle  most famously by proclaiming that Osama bin Laden is dead and General Motors is alive as a campaign applause line.

Separately, Congress is at loggerheads on funding the federal government for the coming fiscal year, raising the possibility of a shutdown that would pose similar headaches for the administration heading into an election year.

Who is Shawn Fain?

Fain rocketed from relative obscurity this winter after toppling UAWs incumbent leader Ray Curry along with a number of other reform-minded insurgents.

Fain joined UAW in the 1990s as an electrician for Chrysler working at a plant in Indiana.

He won by vowing to be less conciliatory with the major car companies, connecting with UAW members who believed that the established power structure had been too cozy with automakers and enabled a culture of corruption that sapped union resources.



Fain has made good on his campaign promises, forgoing a symbolic handshake to mark the start of negotiations and literally trashing one of Stellantis contract proposals.

At the same time, he does not have a long-standing relationship with the administration, as other influential union leaders do, though he has met with the president this summer and spoke with Biden as recently as Labor Day.

What happened the last time UAW struck?

In 2019 UAW launched a strike against GM, putting nearly 50,000 workers on the picket line for 40 days. Workers ultimately won some concessions but fell short of some of their more ambitious asks.

The work stoppage also slowed delivery of tens of thousands of GM cars and briefly slid Michigan into an economic recession, according to one recent analysis from the Anderson Economic Group.

GM itself estimated the impact of that years strike at $3.6 billion. A strike across all three automakers, even for a short duration, could have a significantly larger effect across the economy.

Olivia Olander, Alex Daugherty and Holly Otterbein contributed to this report.
NASA isn't announcing the existence of extraterrestrial life. But if this year's UFO mania shows anything, it's if the agency ever breaks such news, the world may have trouble understanding.

The trouble with talking about aliens and UFOs resurfaced on Thursday, when NASA released its independent report on "unidentified anomalous phenomena," or UAP. (That's the government term for the mysteries most people call UFOs.)

"If you ask me: Do I believe there's life in a universe that is so vast that it's hard for me to comprehend how big it is? My personal answer is yes," NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said in a press briefing on the report.

However, the study team concluded that there is no evidence UAP have extraterrestrial origins.

"It would have to be a very advanced civilization," Nelson said. "The distance is light years, hundreds of light years, billions of light years."

But in the briefing, NASA officials still had to deflect questions about a self-described "ufologist" who presented what he said were 1,000-year-old alien corpses to Mexico's Congress, and about ex-intelligence officer David Grusch's testimony that the government recovered "non-human" "biologics" from a crashed vehicle.

The object a self-described ufologist presented as the remains of a 'non-human' being, during a briefing on UFOs at the San Lazaro legislative palace, in Mexico City, Mexico. Henry Romero/Reuters

Those weren't even the most notable moments of UFO mania this year. Remember the "Chinese spy balloon" that the Pentagon shot down in February?

The suspected Chinese spy balloon drifts to the ocean after being shot down off the coast in Surfside Beach, South Carolina. Randall Hill/Reuters

Suddenly the US seemed to be spotting mysterious flying "objects" everywhere, and US fighter jets gunned down three more in the skies over Alaska, Canada, and Lake Huron. Even Elon Musk weighed in with an alien joke.

Maybe that's why NASA's UAP study team faced "nasty and hostile" online harassment, in the words of David Spergel, president of the Simons Foundation and chair of the team.

"Not only were some of the things that our panel members received, during the course of this study, simple trolling. Some of them actually rose to actual threats," Dan Evans, assistant deputy associate administrator for research at NASA's Science Mission Directorate, added in the briefing.

A woman looks at a UFO display outside of the Little A'Le'Inn, in Rachel, Nevada. AP Photo/John Locher, File

The harassment was so bad, officials said, that they're declining to share the name of NASA's new top UAP official.

The breathless rumors and hostile messages are just a peek at what Lori Glaze , who leads NASA's planetary science division, might face should scientists ever discover true evidence of life beyond Earth.

An apparently unidentified object detected on a Navy planes infrared camera. US Department of Defense/Navy Times

"You can't overstate just how important that discovery would be. How we're going to confirm that and announce it responsibly, I think is a really, really important question," Glaze told Insider at the American Geophysical Union's meeting in December.

"The biggest challenge is trying to keep that communication on an even keel, right? With an excitement, and yet also understanding that we need to set the expectations that we have to follow the scientific process."

How NASA scientists might explain any alien findings  gradually

NASA's Perseverance rover took this selfie on Mars. NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS

Maybe the James Webb Space Telescope detects a telltale molecule in the atmosphere of a distant Earth-like planet. Maybe Mars samples from the Perseverance rover reach Earth in a decade, and scientists find fossils of ancient microbes inside them.

Many astrobiologists (exactly what it sounds like  people who study the idea of biology beyond Earth) think that evidence of extraterrestrial life could turn up soon.

But it's unlikely that any evidence would be completely, irrefutably, obviously aliens. Scientists will probably disagree, and won't be 100% confident. That could be hard to explain to the public.

Two people dressed as extra-terrestrials with aluminum foil costumes walk in the streets near the Peak of Bugarach, in France. Jean-Philippe Arles/Reuters

"This is going to be a very, very hard thing to actually get the scientific community, I think, to agree upon  unless we actually see something moving around and waving at us, which is unlikely," Glaze told Insider.

That's why NASA has tried to develop a procedure for assessing and sharing such a monumental, sensitive discovery. The conversation is still ongoing, Glaze said, but in 2021, the agency published a framework as a starting point. It could help scientists, journalists, and NASA itself explain the science.

It's called the "confidence of life detection" (CoLD) scale, rating scientific confidence in any potential alien-life discovery on a scale of one to seven. A possible detection can climb to higher levels of confidence as evidence builds.

An illustration of the CoLD scale for determining confidence in a detection of alien life. NASA/Aaron Gronstal

For example, a level one detection might be the discovery of a molecule that could be related to life inside a Perseverance Mars sample. The evidence would graduate to level two once scientists confirm there was no contamination in the sample, or the instruments involved, that could have influenced their findings. By ruling out non-biological sources of the molecule, or by confirming that it came from an environment suitable for life, scientists could move it further up the scale.

Other scientific teams would have to measure the Mars sample themselves, with different methods, and confirm the initial finding to graduate to level six.

According to NASA, in this Mars molecule example, additional evidence from a different part of the red planet may be necessary to bring it up to level seven  where it's probably life.

Each new level of confidence could mean a new public announcement.

The discovery of extraterrestrial life is likely to be a slow build-up, rather than an explosive eureka moment.

"Until now, we have set the public up to think there are only two options: it's life or it's not life," Mary Voytek, head of NASA's Astrobiology Program, said in a press release when the new scale was published. "We need a better way to share the excitement of our discoveries, and demonstrate how each discovery builds on the next, so that we can bring the public and other scientists along on the journey."

The president or other countries could be involved in announcing extraterrestrial life exists

President Joe Biden speaks at Delaware State University. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Announcing the existence of alien life would be an "administration-level" affair, Glaze said, referring to the US presidency. It wouldn't just be NASA explaining itself at press conferences.

NASA might not even be the first entity to discover evidence of life on another planet. Another nation's space agency could find it first.

A Chinese Long March 5 Y-4 rocket lifts off, carrying a mission to Mars. Carlos Garcia Rawlins/Reuters

The discovery of intelligent alien life would be even more Earth-shattering. That would come with its own conundrums: How do we communicate with them? What do we say? And how might they respond?

Even beaming little hints of ourselves into the void has been controversial. In 1974, astronomers sent out radio signals containing the numbers one through 10, information about the composition and structure of DNA, a figure of a human and our global population, and a graphic of the solar system with Earth highlighted.

Critics like Stephen Hawking have said that contacting any extraterrestrial intelligence could pose an existential risk for humanity.

Needless to say, any discovery of alien life would likely lead to chaos  at least in public discourse.

Glaze said NASA's goal is to be a trusted, transparent source of clear scientific information. It could be the agency's biggest challenge yet.

"I'm not sure we even have words to describe it," she said. "The confirmation that we're not alone in the universe is, I think, going to be akin to realizing that the universe doesn't rotate around Earth. It's a very different way of thinking about who we are, where we came from."

This post has been updated to include new events. It was originally published on February 18, 2023.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The U.K. Defense Ministry said on Sept. 14 that the refueling of a reactor in Ukraine's Rivne Nuclear Power Plant using Western supplies signifies a major step in the country's energy sector's decoupling from Russia.

On Sept. 10, Ukrainian state-owned nuclear energy operator Energoatom announced that a reactor in the Rivne plant was loaded with the first batch of nuclear fuel produced by the Westinghouse Electric Sweden AB company.

The U.K. report pointed out that all Ukraine's nuclear power stations are based on Soviet designs, and until February 2022 relied on Russia in terms of fuel.

Since the start of the full-scale invasion, Ukraine expedited the plans to diversify its supply to reduce dependency on Moscow, the ministry said.

London suggested that since nuclear energy covers roughly half of Ukraine's electricity, Energoatom's success in installing Western fuel "is a major waypoint in Ukraine's long-term decoupling from Russia."

The Rivne plant in western Ukraine is one of the country's four active nuclear power stations, including the Khmelnytskyi plant, the South Ukraine plant, and the largest Zaporizhzhia plant, which has been occupied by Russia since March 2022.

Ukraine's energy infrastructure has come under significant strain during the last fall and winter as Russia attempted to cripple it through massive strikes, resulting in regular blackouts.

Kyiv officials warned that Moscow is likely to attempt a similar strategy during the fall and winter of 2023-2024. On Sept. 13, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said that the country's energy infrastructure will be ready for the next winter season within a month.

Read also: Ukrainian energy company on Russias attacks on infrastructure: No system in the world has faced the same

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The first-ever fuelling of Ukrainian nuclear power plants with non-Russian nuclear fuel in the history of Ukraine is an important stage in Ukraine's long-term separation from Russia, the UK Ministry of Defence believes.

Source: UK MoD Defence Intelligence review on 14 September, as reported by European Pravda

Quote from the review: "All of Ukraine's NPPs have reactors based on Soviet designs and until February 2022 it relied on Russia for nuclear fuel. Since Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine has accelerated plans to diversify its supply."

Details: UK analysts recalled that nuclear energy provides about half of Ukraine's electricity.

They stressed that Energoatom's success in finding and installing Western fuel is an important stage in Ukraine's long-term separation from Russia, whose impact on Ukraine's energy supply has significantly reduced.

Background:

On 10 September, Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko announced that for the first time, a Ukrainian nuclear power plant had been loaded with Westinghouse fuel, which was produced jointly with Energoatom.

Previously, the corresponding fuel was produced only in Russia by TVEL Fuel Company.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Explosion in Yevpatoriya on the night of September 14

Explosions were recorded near the Russian-occupied city of Yevpatoriya overnight as part of a special operation jointly by Ukraines SBU Security Service and the Ukrainian Navy, according to confidential security sources on Sep. 14.

Speaking to NV, the sources confirmed that a Russian Triumf anti-aircraft missile system was destroyed in the operation. The target came under assault by drones and Neptune cruise missiles.

Read also: Ukraine uses British Storm Shadow missiles in Sevastopol attack  UK official

SBU drones incapacitated the complexs radar and antennas, followed by naval forces firing two Neptune missiles.

The S-400 Triumf is Russias state-of-the-art long-range and medium-range surface-to-air missile system.

This marks the second instance of a Triumf system meeting its demise, with the prior incident occurring at Cape Tarkhankut in occupied Crimea on Aug. 23.

At the time, Oleksiy Danilov, the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, announced that a new Ukrainian missile had executed its task "flawlessly."

Read also: Three Russian S-300 air defense systems damaged in Kherson Oblast, Ukrainian military says

The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed that they had downed 11 drones over the occupied peninsula overnight.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Harvesting in the Kyiv region at the beginning of August 2022

Ukraine hopes that the European Commission will lift restrictions on imports of Ukrainian grain on Sept. 15, as per the agreement reached in June, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said in a Twitter post on Sept. 14.

Read also: EU pressuring Ukraines neighbors to drop politically motivated grain export ban extension

Ukraine expects the European Commission to keep its word and lift all restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural exports tomorrow, said the minister.

No form of continuing the ban is acceptable since it would undermine the single market, the Ukraine-EU Association Agreement, and trust in EU commitments.

On June 5, the European Commission imposed a ban on the export of wheat, barley, rapeseed, and sunflower seeds from Ukraine to Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria until Sept. 15. Ukrainian grain can only transit through those countries.

The dispute started in April when Poland banned the import of grain from Ukraine. Prior to this, Polish farmers had been protesting the transportation of Ukrainian agricultural products through Poland to third countries for several months. They claimed that a significant portion of Ukrainian grain was not being forwarded in transit, but instead accumulating in Poland, thereby distorting the internal market and driving down the prices of Polish farmers' produce.

Read also: Ukraine and Poland sign landmark railway agreement after almost 30 years

On Sept. 12, Poland decided to extend the ban on grain imports from Ukraine beyond Sept. 15.

Read also: Ukraine to use WTO arbitration in response to extended grain import embargo by Poland

One EU diplomat said he believes that the decision to extend import restrictions was "purely political," as Poland is headed for elections in mid-October. In response to this, a high-ranking Polish official admitted that the forthcoming "elections played their role."

Read also: Zelenskyy & Duda seeking to meet but Poland wont budge on Ukrainian grain, says pres. adviser

Hungary announced that it had reached an agreement with Romania, Slovakia, and Bulgaria on imposing national bans on importing Ukrainian grain if the EU does not extend its ban, which ends on Sept. 15.

Earlier on Sept. 14, the Bulgarian parliament supported lifting the ban on imports of grain from Ukraine.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Consequences of the Russian shelling on the night of September 14

Ukrainian authorities have mandated an evacuation of families with children from Kerson Oblast settlements that are routinely attacked by Russian artillery, Kherson regional governor Oleksandr Prokudin said in a Telegram post on Sept. 14.

"The Regional Defense Council of Kherson has made the decision to evacuate families with children from populated areas which are constantly under enemy fire", the message reads.

Read also: Ukraine destroys six Russian boats on Dnipro River in Kherson Oblast

Additionally, the curfew in the region will now last from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

Read also: Civilian killed, another fighting for his life in Russian attack on village in Kherson Oblast

Prokudin added that officials are preparing the energy infrastructure of Kherson Oblast for the coming heating season.

Read also: SBU exposes Russian MPs informant in Kherson

The Russian military shells various towns in Kherson Oblast almost daily.

On the night of Sept. 14, Russian artillery struck the village of Novodmytrivka in the region, killing a six-year-old child and injuring four other people.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Your slice of the headlines in Ukraine. Daily. Thursday, September 14, 2023.

 Explosions rock Sevastopol as two Russian ships reportedly put out of action

Powerful explosions shook the occupied city of Sevastopol in the early hours of Sep. 13 in a missile attack on a Russian naval shipyard that reportedly damaged two ships.





 More drone debris found in Romania after Russia attacks Ukraine on Sep. 13

Fragments of a UAV have been discovered in Romania following Russias nighttime attack on Odesa Oblast on Sep. 13, the Romanian Ministry of Defense has reported.





 Hungary threatens to introduce total ban on Ukraine agro imports

Hungary plans to implement a full national ban on Ukrainian grain imports in cooperation with Romania and Slovakia if the EU doesnt extend the existing ban set to expire on Sep. 15, according to Hungarys Minister of Agriculture, Istvan Nagy, on Sep. 13.





 North Korea began supplying Russia with ammunition weeks ago  Budanov

Russia is already receiving 122mm and 152mm artillery shells as well as Grad rockets from North Korea, Ukrainian Defense Intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov told NV on Sept. 13.





 Ukraines authorities slipping into criticizing unfavorable polls  interview

Some 78% of Ukrainian citizens believe that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is directly responsible for corruption within the government and military administrations, according to a July 2023 survey conducted by the Ilko Kucheriv Democratic Initiatives Foundation in partnership with the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS).





 War in Ukraine left Russia unable to guarantee Armenias security  Pashinyan

Having committed much of its forces to the war in Ukraine, Moscow is no longer able to guarantee the security of its ally Armenia, Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan said in an interview with Politico on Sept. 13.





 General Staff releases detailed update on Ukraines counteroffensive

The Ukrainian Armed Forces are continuing to advance towards Melitopol and maintain the initiative around the area of Bakhmut, according to a General Staff report on Sept. 13.





 Schools set up in Kharkiv metro to protect Ukrainian kids

Kharkivs metro has transformed into a school for over a thousand students since the beginning of the school year, offering in-person learning, according to a report by BBC on Sep. 12.





 Ukraines SBU exposes officials selling get-out-of-service certificates

Ukraines SBU Security Service, in collaboration with the National Police, has exposed a widespread corruption scandal implicating the entire leadership of the district military-medical commission in Odesa Oblast, according to a press release on Sep. 13.





 Zelenskyy & Duda seeking to meet but Poland wont budge on Ukrainian grain, says pres. adviser

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Polish President Andrzej Duda may soon arrange a one-on-one meeting, according to chief advisor to the Polish president, Pawe Szrot, on Sep. 12.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
LONDON  Ukraines success in attacking Russian forces with naval drones is fast-tracking Moscows efforts to repel these weapons, producing lessons for Western navies in process, according to experts.

In August, social media reports claimed that the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense released footage showing naval drones carrying out an attack in the Black Sea on Russian vessels.

The unmanned surface vessel in the grainy video is the Magura V5, manufactured by SpetsTechnoExport (STE), a Ukrainian state-owned foreign trade enterprise based in Kyiv. The company, present at the DSEI defense exhibition here, declined to comment the operation, citing security reasons.

However, a white paper circulated by the company here stated that the Magura V5 is the worlds first maritime drone with public video confirmation of hitting legitimate targets, including warships.

Although the naval drone was designed for reconnaissance and surveillance missions, it can also carry out strike operations. An STE representative at the companys stand, who asked not to be named, explained that Magura can act as an explosive drone because of its sizable payload of 320 kg (705,5 lbs) and a range of over 830 kilometers (515 miles).

Samuel Bendett, a research analyst at the U.S.-based Center for Naval Analyses Russian Studies Program, noted that as the Ukrainians have lacked the capability to challenge the Russian Navy on an equal footing, naval drones are an asymmetrical response that can get to the enemy vessels at sea or in port.

At the same time, he added, the attacks are leading Russia to bolster naval defenses.

USV tactics are constantly changing to inflict the most probable damage on Russian naval assets that also include stationary targets like bridges. So far, parts of Russias navy  such as those in Crimea  are adapting better to this threat than others, Bendett said.

However, Ukraines use of these USVs is also fast-tracking a Russian naval rearmament program to install kinetic, electronic warfare and sensor defenses on ships, he added.

The cat-and-mouse game that has been playing out around drones was also raised by Maksym Muzyka, the chief executive officer at Armadrone, which produces the Ukrainian Punisher drone.

We need to continuously adapt our systems in order to be one step ahead, he told Defense News at the DSEI exhibit. In two months time, Russian systems could be integrated with more advanced capabilities and we need to be prepared to compete with these or do better.

Both Ukrainian companies face challenges in meeting the overall demand for unmanned systems arising from the conflict. Muzyka highlights that last year, Armadrone could only satisfy about 30% of the requests of the military for Punishers, and that the company would need to up production by three to five times to reach the desired quantity.

For STE, the situation is even more complex, as USVs are more difficult to build from a technology standpoint, given the weight of the platform and payload.

Since developing the Magura a year and half ago, we have managed to produce approximately in the 100s of these systems, but we are actively working to increase our production rate, the STE official said.
Todays news from the war in Ukraine was understandably dominated by the latest attack on the Russian Black Sea Fleet port at Sevastopol, in occupied Crimea, which you can read all about here . Suffice it to say, it appears that Ukrainian cruise missiles may well have accounted for the loss  or at least the serious damage  of a Russian Navy Kilo class submarine and a Ropucha class landing ship. If it turns out to be the case that the Kilo was destroyed in this way, that would apparently be the first time in history that a cruise missile has successfully struck a submarine in a conflict scenario.

https://www.twitter.com/UAWeapons/status/1702007588626309128?s=20

Mykhailo Podolyak, adviser to the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, placed the attack on Sevastopol in the context of the ongoing grain war with Russia, describing efforts to knock out elements of the Black Sea Fleet as the only correct response to Russias attempts to turn hunger into a weapon and the only way to ensure uninterrupted grain supplies to the countries of the east and Africa.

In a post on social media, Podolyak added:

The demilitarisation of the Russian Black Sea fleet is a real long-term guarantee of security for regional trade routes and the grain corridor.

The way to do this is to build up the capacity of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, including by expanding the range of weapons. We can already see the results of this in Sevastopol. A professional and meaningful statement.

https://www.twitter.com/Podolyak_M/status/1701946426568114188?s=20

Meanwhile, North Korean leader King Jong Un has met with Russias President Vladimir Putin in Vladivostok, as has been expected. You can read about the lead-up to that meeting here , but overall, its a further sign of the burgeoning relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang  one that could have a significant effect on the war in Ukraine.

In a meeting that took place at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia's far eastern Amur region, Kim pledged to support Russia in what he described as a sacred fight against the West at large. Although details of a rumored deal involving the expected transfer of more North Korean artillery ammunition were not disclosed, the talks did touch upon possible Russian assistance for North Koreas ' space program ,' and, more broadly, opportunities for bilateral military-technical cooperation.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un leaving the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Amur region aboard his special train, on September 13, 2023, after talks with the Russian president. Photo by PAVEL BYRKIN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Kim added: Russia has risen to a sacred fight to protect its sovereignty and security. We will always support the decisions of President Putin and the Russian leadership  and we will be together in the fight against imperialism.

Reportedly, Kim confirmed that he had reached an agreement with Putin that would see the two countries deepen their strategic and tactical cooperation and solidarity in the struggle to defend sovereign rights and security.

For his part, Putin said: We, of course, need to talk about questions of economic cooperation and questions of a humanitarian nature. We have a lot of questions.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin speaks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as they visit the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Amur region on September 13, 2023. Photo by ARTEM GEODAKYAN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

According to Reuters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov did address the issue of possible arms talks between Russia and North Korea, albeit obliquely, providing the following statement to the media:

As neighbors, our countries implement cooperation in sensitive areas that should not become the subject of public disclosure and announcement. But this is quite natural for neighboring states.

https://www.twitter.com/SkyNews/status/1701523354560217421?s=20

U.S. officials had previously voiced concern that the meeting in Vladivostok could see North Korea agree to provide the Kremlin with weaponry, especially artillery shells and anti-tank missiles, while advanced satellite and submarine technology could head in the opposite direction.

North Korea has previously denied supplying weapons to Moscow.

In response to the meeting between Putin and Kim, U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby today noted the White Houses concerns about North Korean involvement in the conflict.

We continue to urge North Korea to meet its public commitments not to support Russias war in Ukraine, Kirby said. There will certainly be repercussions, he warned.

https://www.twitter.com/business/status/1702068453044023679?s=20

Weve got to see what shakes out of this meeting  We obviously have concerns about any burgeoning defense relationship between North Korea and Russia, Kirby added.

In a statement , the U.S. State Department said that the Biden administration wont hesitate to impose additional sanctions on Russia and North Korea if new arms deals are agreed. We have taken a number of actions already to sanction entities that brokered arms sales between North Korea and Russia and we wont hesitate to impose additional sanctions if appropriate, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said.

https://www.twitter.com/BlogUkraine/status/1701394951408390269?s=20

Before we head into the latest news from Ukraine, The War Zone readers can catch up on our previous rolling coverage here .

The Latest

Its not just Russian port infrastructure that has been under regular attack in recent weeks. According to officials in Kyiv, 105 Ukrainian port infrastructure facilities have been damaged by Russian attacks since July 18  a day after Russia pulled out of the UN-backed Black Sea grain export deal.

The figure was provided today by Ukraines infrastructure minister, Oleksandr Kubrakov, who also said that the countrys grain exports had fallen by almost 3 million tons a month since the same date.

Kubrakov wrote on Facebook:

Since 18 July, due to Russian attacks on Ukrainian ports, 105 port infrastructure facilities have been damaged and partially destroyed. As a result of strikes on the ports of the Danube cluster and the blocking of seaports, grain exports to Asia, Africa, and Europe were reduced by almost 3 million tons per month.

https://www.twitter.com/KyivIndependent/status/1702084761697878038?s=20

In Moscow today, the Russian Minister of Defense, Sergei Shoigu, doubled down on his forces efforts in Ukraine, stating that Russia has no other options but to win the conflict.

In an interview with Russias state-run Rossiya-1 TV network, the defense minister acknowledged that the situation on the front was difficult in places and described his forces as maintaining active defense in the face of the Ukrainian counteroffensive that was launched in June.

Shoigu said:

Our forces are maintaining [an] active defense on the necessary, essential fronts. In some places, its harder, in others simpler. But I can say that the lads and the commander[s] are performing confidently, and reliably defending what we need to defend at the moment  those places, obviously, where the Ukrainian Armed Forces are trying to break through.

https://www.twitter.com/NOELreports/status/1701972474345246786?s=20

More now from Romania, where officials there say that, for the third time in the space of a week, they have found evidence of Russian drones on their territory.

The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said today that it reiterates its firm protest against the violation, once again, of Romanias airspace and that it will summon the head of Russias diplomatic mission, according to a report from the Associated Press.

The latest fragments claimed to be from a Russian drone were found near the Romanian border with Ukraine, close to the villages of Nufarul and Victoria in Tulcea county.

https://www.twitter.com/visegrad24/status/1701917401938375125?s=20

According to Reuters, the Romanian Ministry of Defense offered the following statement :

The crew of an IAR-330 Puma helicopter of the Romanian Air Force  [identified] fragments that could have come from a drone, dispersed over an area of several dozen meters.

https://www.twitter.com/MApNRomania/status/1701903033548914817?s=20

Romanian officials said that an initial analysis of the first two drone fragments suggested that they were not carrying explosives, according to Reuters.

No one has attacked us, Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu told reporters. Some pieces of a drone that was hit by the Ukrainian Army fell. It did not have explosives, or anything damaging.

In response, the Romanian Ministry of Defense has begun building two bomb shelters in the small border village of Plauru, where the first two drone fragments were found. It has also said it will deploy additional troops in the area, and increase patrols and observation points, to warn residents of future drone incursions.

https://www.twitter.com/visegrad24/status/1702037511076196490?s=20

At the same time, Romania has condemned Russia for its continued attacks on Ukraine's Danube ports, which have also involved drones.

Early today, at least one Russian drone damaged port infrastructure in the Izmail district of southern Ukraine, just across the border from Romania.

https://www.twitter.com/OlKubrakov/status/1701949697550684476?s=20

According to the Romanian Defense Ministry, its forces remain on alert and will continue investigations in areas where risks may arise as a result of this situation.

The statement continued:

The Ministry of National Defense strongly condemns the attacks carried out by the Russian Federation against some objectives and elements of civil infrastructure in the Ukrainian ports on the Danube. These attacks are unjustified and in serious contradiction with the rules of international humanitarian law.

Romanian Army soldiers build a bomb shelter in the village of Plauru, in the Danube Delta, 186 miles east of Bucharest, Romania, on September 12, 2023. Photo by MIHAI BARBU/AFP via Getty Images

As well as the drone war coming once again to Romania, Ukraine has been on the receiving end of more Russian drone strikes.

According to officials in Kyiv, Ukrainian air defenses shot down 32 Iranian-designed Shahed drones out of 44 launched overnight in attacks on Odeshchyna and Sumy.

https://www.twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/1701994144409977319?s=20

The Ukrainian state-run broadcaster Suspilne posted the following account to the Telegram messaging app:

At night, the Russian Army attacked Odeshchyna with drones: there is damage to the port and civil infrastructure. Seven people were injured. Air defense forces destroyed 32 Shahed drones out of 44 launched. Russian troops attacked Odeshchyna and Sumy region with them at night.

Defense forces have partial success near Klishchiivka in the Bakhmut direction, said the spokesperson of the general staff.

https://www.twitter.com/EvgeniyDnepr390/status/1701948382007181473?s=20

The report from Suspilne continued: In the last 24 hours, three people were killed and three others were injured as a result of shelling by the Russian Federation in the Donetsk region. Four people were injured in the Kherson region. One person was injured in Zaporizhzhia.

Elsewhere in Ukraine, Russian drones were reportedly also used in an attack on the Black Sea city of Odesa. These targeted port infrastructure, the Ukrainian Air Force said.

https://www.twitter.com/DefenceU/status/1701963329621647719?s=20

Meanwhile, Ukrainian drones have also been used to attack targets within Russias borders, according to the state-run RIA Novosti news agency. That account says that a single Ukrainian drone was shot down in the Konakovo district of the Tver region, northwest of Moscow. Citing regional authorities, the agency added that no casualties were reported.

https://www.twitter.com/milcotto/status/1698982226187235761?s=20

More from the Zaporizhzhia region, now, and an interesting official video released by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense that recounts the experiences of tank crews from the 47th Mechanized Brigade, who are said to have used their German-made Leopard 2A6 tanks in the breakthrough against Russian positions in Robotyne.

https://www.twitter.com/DefenceU/status/1701531957509882117?s=20

The first Ukrainian pilots could be trained on their long-awaited F-16 fighters before the end of the year, Lt. Gen. Michael Loh, director of the U.S. Air National Guard, has said . Even if that happens, it will still be some time before they are actually able to fly combat missions, Loh added.

Speaking this week at the Air & Space Forces Association's main annual convention in Maryland, Loh confirmed that a cadre of Ukrainian pilots is expected to arrive at Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson, Arizona, by October. After training, these aircrews will be available to fly the secondhand F-16s that have so far been pledged to Ukraine by Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway.

An F-16 crew chief from the 162nd Wing at Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson monitors an F-16 as it parks before engine shutdown. U.S. Air National Guard photo by Maj. Angela Walz

Loh also said that the exact amount of time it will take to train these pilots will depend to a significant degree on their proficiency in English, as well as previous flying experience. In the best-case scenario, they could complete their training in three months, Lo said. The intricacies of training Ukrainian pilots on the F-16, or other Western fighters, is something we have looked at in detail in the past.

https://www.twitter.com/clashreport/status/1701887414241816754?s=20

With one eye likely on next years leadership elections, Russian President Vladimir Putin has, for the time being, ruled out further conscription or mobilization efforts to assist his countrys war in Ukraine. Instead, Putin claimed that between 1,000 and 1,500 Russians were signing voluntary contracts to join the military each day.

In one of its regular intelligence briefings earlier this week, the U.K. Ministry of Defense had it expected that Russia would likely try and avoid any kind of forced mobilization ahead of the presidential elections, due to be held in March.

https://www.twitter.com/DefenceHQ/status/1701114001688592442?s=20

The latest round of defense support pledged to Ukraine comes from Denmark, which has said it will provide Kyiv with military materiel valued at $833 million. The Danish Defense Ministry says that this will mainly involve air defense equipment, as well as ammunition and tanks. For Ukraine to be able to continue defending itself against Russias illegal invasion, it is essential that countries like Denmark maintain their military and economic support, the Danish Minister of Defense Troels Lund Poulsen said.

https://www.twitter.com/front_ukrainian/status/1701627148262314426?s=20

Finally, an intriguing video from the front lines in Ukraine. While the date and location cannot presently be confirmed, the footage appears to show a Ukrainian BTR-4 Bucephalus amphibious 8x8 wheeled infantry fighting vehicle apparently surviving being hit by not one, but two missiles fired by what is said to be a Russian Ka-52 Hokum attack helicopter. The types of missiles used cannot be verified, but are reportedly Vikhr-1. Known to NATO as AT-16 Scallion, the Vikhr-1 is advertised as being able to penetrate 31.5 inches of armor (Rolled Homogeneous Armour equivalent, or RHAe). It seems the crew of the BTR-4 may have had a very lucky escape.

https://www.twitter.com/albir2024/status/1701531545276674545?s=20

Thats it for now. Well update this story when theres more news to report about Ukraine.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com
Ukraine and South Korea have signed an agreement, which stipulates the provision of soft loans for the implementation of projects in Ukraine with the participation of Korean companies.

Source: Office of the President's press service

Quote: "The Agreement between the Government of Ukraine and the Government of the Republic of Korea regarding loans from the Economic Development and Cooperation Fund (EDCF) was signed in the presence of the President of Ukraine and the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport of Korea," the message reads.

The agreement says preferential loans are provided for the implementation of projects in Ukraine with the participation of Korean companies.

The agreement was signed by Yuliia Svyrydenko, Ukraine's First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, and Kim Hyung-tae, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Ukraine.

President Zelenskyy thanked the Korean side for supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and the decisions made to provide significant practical assistance to our country.

Quote: "I am grateful for the decision of the government of the Republic of Korea to allocate financial support to Ukraine in the amount of 2.3 billion US dollars for reconstruction and restoration. This will give a tangible impetus to the development of Ukrainian infrastructure," Zelenskyy said.

In addition, Zelenskyy called on Korean businesses to actively work on the Ukrainian market and participate in the implementation of projects in the areas of nuclear and renewable energy development, machine building, automotive industry, lithium mining, oil refining, "green" metallurgy, railway transport, water resources and local infrastructure.

Background:

Since the beginning of the Great War, South Korea has provided Ukraine with ten cargoes of humanitarian aid to the energy sector and is interested in investing in the restoration of the energy sector.

The President of South Korea, Yoon Seok-yeol, announced the provision of $2.3 billion in financial aid to Ukraine for recovery starting in 2025.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
On September 13, three Ukrainian children from the Russian Federation and the occupied territories were returned home

Ukraine has successfully returned 386 children kidnapped by Russia, the Ukrainian Parliaments Commissioner for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets, said in a statement to Ukrinform on Sept. 14.

Since the establishment of a dedicated coordination team led by Andriy Yermak, responsible for the return of Ukrainian children, 386 children have been returned from the territory of the Russian Federation, Lubinets said.

Read also: Belarus responsible for deportation of Ukrainian children, Kyiv says

This number does not include children who have been returned from temporarily occupied territories, Lubinets said.

We have decided to differentiate these figures because it is one thing to return a child from the territory of the Russian Federation after deportation, and another when we are returning children who were forcibly displaced within the temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine, he explained.

Deportation of Ukrainian children  what is known

Read also: Ukraine returns 11 more children deported by Russia, tens of thousands still await repatriation

The International Criminal Court in The Hague issued an arrest warrant on March 17 for Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova for war crimes in connection with the deportation of Ukrainian children to the Russian Federation.

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) adopted a resolution on April 27 recognizing the forced transfer of Ukrainian children to Russia as genocide.

According to the Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights, the Russians have taken almost 20,000 children from the territories of Ukraine they occupy, and approximately 6,000 are being held in re-education camps.

The number of Ukrainian children illegally deported to Russia may have reached as many as 300,000, said the European Parliament. MEPs believe that the Russians started abducting Ukrainian children in 2014, ever since the occupation of Crimea and parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.

Read also: EU official details possible structure of tribunal for Putin

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
KYIV (Reuters) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Thursday he was grateful to Bulgaria for not extending restrictions on Ukrainian grain exports from Sept. 15.

"I thank (Prime Minister) Nikolai Denkov and his team, as well as Bulgarian parliamentarians who supported this move. Bulgaria sets an example of true solidarity," Zelenskiy said on the X social media platform.

Restrictions imposed by the European Union in May allowed Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia to ban domestic sales of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed and sunflower seeds, while permitting transit of such cargoes for export elsewhere.

The restrictions, designed to ease excess supply, are due to expire on Friday.

The Bulgarian National Assembly on Thursday voted to scrap the ban on imports of certain Ukrainian products.

The resolution it approved declares that taking into consideration Bulgaria's "solidarity with Ukraine", Sofia does not support extending the ban beyond Sept. 15.

The documents stated that lifting the ban would not put at risk the competitiveness of Bulgarian agricultural producers.

Poland, which holds a parliamentary election on Oct. 15 and says cheaper Ukrainian grain makes domestic production unprofitable, has said it will not lift its ban even if the EU does not extend the arrangement this week.

Slovakia's government has also said it will uphold the ban and Hungary looks set to do the same.

Kyiv has said it could seek international arbitration over the restrictions on its grain exports.

Before Russia's war in Ukraine, eastern European countries were not among the main importers of Ukrainian grain, but the export of Ukrainian grains and oilseeds to Poland and Romania rose sharply last year, Ukrainian customs data showed.

(Reporting by Pavel Polityuk; additional reporting by Julia Payne in Brussels; editing by Tom Balmforth and Timothy Heritage)
The large landing ship Minsk, destroyed in the dock of the shipyard in Sevastopol

Ukrainian forces struck a Russian landing ship and a submarine dry-docked in Sevastopol using British Storm Shadow missiles in a daring nighttime assault on Sept. 13, according to UK security sources speaking to Sky News.

Read also: NASA satellites register Sevastopol shipyard fires  Photos

During a weapons exhibition in London, Admiral Ben Key, head of the Royal Navy, fielded questions about the attack on Sevastopol.

"The Ukrainians are demonstrating what can be done through innovative thought processes and a willingness to take risks," Key said.

"As we have seen in a number of various areas, some really significant adaptations of tactics, techniques, and capabilities have been made in order to try and generate a capability advantage over the Russians, and I really applaud that."

This is the first successful attack against a Russian submarine since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion.

According to the occupation authorities, two shipyard employees were killed and 26 were injured.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Key developments on Sept. 14:

Media: SBU, Navy destroy Russian air defense system in Yevpatoriia strike

Two ships damaged in Crimea, Ukraine's military reports

3rd Assault Brigade denies Andriivka near Bakhmut was liberated

ICC opens office in Kyiv to investigate Russian war crimes

Biden appoints Penny Pritzker as US representative for Ukraine's economic recovery

EU removes 3 Russian businessmen from sanctions list

Investigators identify Russian soldiers who killed supermarket security guard in Bucha

Ukrainian forces struck two Russian patrol ships, Vasily Bykov, on the morning of Sept. 14, reported the military's Strategic Communications Directorate.

The ships stationed in the southwestern part of the Black Sea sustained "certain damages," the directorate wrote without further details.

Vasily Bykov is a large patrol corvette of the Russian Navy, equipped with a naval gun, portable air defense systems, and heavy machine guns.

The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the Ukrainian Navy carried out a strike on Yevpatoriia in Russian-occupied Crimea overnight on Sept. 14, several Ukrainian media outlets reported, citing sources in the SBU.

The alleged Ukrainian drones and Neptune missiles attack destroyed a modern S-400 Triumph air defense system worth $1.2 billion, an unnamed SBU source told Ukrainska Pravda.

Two Neptune missiles launched by the Navy hit the S-400 launchers, the NV media outlet reported, citing its sources in the SBU.

Natalia Humeniuk, the spokesperson of Ukraine's Southern Operational Command, pointed out that many Russian military facilities, including an airfield, are located in Yevpatoriia, making it a legitimate target.

However, she did not explicitly say whether Ukrainian forces were behind the strike.

This is the second consecutive strike reported against occupied Crimea in the past two days.

On Sept. 13, an attack against a Sevastopol shipyard hit two Russian military vessels  a landing craft and a submarine  and damaged the port's infrastructure.

Fight for Andriivka

Heavy fighting continues south of Bakhnut in the villages of Klishchiivka and Andriivka, according to Ukraine's 3rd Assault Brigade.

The brigade, fighting in that area, denied earlier messages that Andriivka was liberated.

"Such statements are harmful, threaten the lives of personnel, and harm the performance of combat missions," the brigade stated.

At around 2 p.m. local time on Sept. 14, Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar wrote on Telegram that Ukrainian forces had liberated Andriivka, which is located around 10 kilometers south of Bakhmut.

However, after the 3rd Assault Brigade refuted the claim, the part of the text about the liberation was deleted from the post.

Instead, Maliar said that the situation in Andriivka was "very complex and changeable."

Afterward, Maliar claimed there had been "miscommunication between several sources reporting directly from the scene."

"I do not release such information without coordination and agreement with the military," she said. The official added that Ukrainian forces had achieved some success in Andriivka, but fighting was still ongoing.

Andriivka is located between Donetsk Oblasts settlements of Kurdiumivka and Klishchiivka, where the fighting is currently concentrated, according to Maliar.

Russian forces are reportedly trying to recapture the lost positions on Bakhmuts northern flank, while Ukraines military is advancing on the southern flank.

On Sept. 11, Maliar said that Ukrainian troops had regained about 50 square kilometers of land around the eastern city of Bakhmut since the start of the summer counteroffensive.

Ukraines counteroffensive has been ongoing for over three months in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia oblasts.

Read also: Russias southern mistake  Surovikin lines, Gerasimov tactics

ICC opens office in Kyiv to investigate Russian war crimes

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has opened a field office in Kyiv, Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin announced on Sept. 14.

The office has been set up to "increase the effectiveness and efficiency of responding to the crimes that Russia continues to commit against Ukraine and Ukrainians daily," Kostin said.

The office is the largest ICC field office outside of The Hague, according to the Prosecutor General. The court has seven field offices around the world.

Kostin thanked Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the ICC, for the "colossal work" the court carries out to bring criminals to justice.

"We are doing our utmost to ensure that the ICC experts can see the aftermath of the aggressor's crimes with their own eyes and draw their independent conclusions," Kostin said.

"Unlike Russia's criminal regime, Ukraine has nothing to hide," he added.

In March, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, the Russian official overseeing the forced deportations of Ukrainian children to Russia.

The Ukrainian government has identified around 20,000 Ukrainian children who have been forcibly deported from Russian-occupied territories.

The ICC believes that Putin bears individual criminal responsibility as the leader of Russia for the crimes committed against Ukrainian children.

Russia issued an arrest warrant for Khan in May in response. The court called the measure "unacceptable" and "coercive measures" and said that Russia's actions would not stop it from trying to hold war criminals accountable.

Read also: How a celebrated Ukrainian writer turned into a war crimes researcher

Biden appoints Penny Pritzker as US representative for Ukraine's economic recovery

U.S. President Joe Biden appointed Penny Pritzker as the first-ever special representative for Ukraines economic recovery. It's the "next step to help Ukraine forge a stronger future," the White House announced on Sept. 14.

Pritzker, an entrepreneur and former commerce secretary, has been appointed to the role because of her decades of experience in business, Biden said. Her family founded a business empire, which includes the Hyatt Hotel group.

Pritzker has "deep familial ties to Ukraine," he added.

Pritzker's tasks will include mobilizing foreign investments, supporting the re-opening of businesses shut down by Russian attacks, and helping Ukraine grow its exports, according to Biden.

Biden also said the special representative will support the Ukrainian government in making "reforms needed to strengthen its economy."

Pritzker plans to travel to Ukraine "in the coming weeks," the New York Times reported, to to meet with Ukraine's political and business leaders.

The appointment of Pritzker "demonstrates our commitment to strengthen Ukraines European future," U.S. State Secretary Antony Blinken said in his own statement.

The World Bank published estimates in March 2023 that the cost of Ukraine's reconstruction and economic recovery will be around $400 billion.

Read also: Timothy Snyder: If you want peace, Crimea has to be a part of Ukraine

EU removes 3 Russian businessmen from sanctions list

The European Union has lifted sanctions against Russian businessmen Grigory Berezkin, Farkhad Akhmedov, and Alexander Shulgin.

This was reported by the EU's Official Journal on Sept. 14. The bloc also removed Georgy Shuvaev, a Russian colonel purportedly killed in Ukraine last year, from the sanctions list.

Berezkin is the chairperson of one of Russia's largest holding companies, ESN Group, whose assets include the RBC media holding. He's reportedly close to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Azerbaijan-born Akhmedov is a former senator and co-owner of the Russian natural gas-producing company Nortgas.

Shulgin previously headed Ozon, a Russian e-commerce firm, and Russia's biggest tech company Yandex. He left Ozon in April 2022 after being sanctioned by the EU and Australia.

Western countries have imposed sanctions against multiple Russian oligarchs who were considered to be involved in Moscow's military aggression against Ukraine. According to Reuters, the EU has sanctioned around 1,600 individuals and more than 200 entities since Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014.

The EU needs the consensus of all 27 member states to impose sanctions, which are renewed every six months.

On Aug. 26, the Financial Times reported that Arkady Volozh, tech billionaire and co-founder of Russia's popular search engine Yandex, had made a formal request for the EU to lift its sanctions against him. Earlier, Volozh publicly spoke out against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, calling it "barbaric."

Investigators identify Russian soldiers who killed supermarket security guard in Bucha

Ukrainian investigators have identified four Russian soldiers who were involved in the killing of a supermarket security guard in the town of Bucha, Kyiv Oblast, in February 2022, the Prosecutor General's Office announced on Sept. 14.

The soldiers did not observe the principle of distinguishing between civilian and military targets, resulting in the civilian's death, the Prosecutor General's Office said, adding that the four soldiers have been charged with violating the customs of war and committing murder.

The Russian soldiers, two of whom were commanders, were part of the Russian invading force from the 76th Guards Airborne Assault Division.

On Feb. 27, 2022, one commander gave the order via radio to consider anyone wearing black clothing as an enemy combatant, despite the fact this could "result in accidental civilian casualties," the Prosecutor General's Office said.

A man who worked as a security guard for the local Novus supermarket was wearing a black work uniform marked "Novus Security."

He was targeted by these troops despite the fact that "he had no weapon and did not pose any threat," the Prosecutor General's Office reported.

Ukraines Security Service (SBU) reported on Aug. 31 that it had identified another Russian servicemember involved in the massacre of civilians in Kyiv Oblast.

Vadim Ovchinnikov, senior lieutenant and the commander of a reconnaissance platoon, told his subordinates to shoot at a family trying to evacuate from the village of Severynivka near Bucha, according to the SBU.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The Russians attacked Ukraine on the night of 13-14 September with 22 Shahed-136/131 kamikaze drones, 17 of which were destroyed, and the Defence Forces continue to hold back the Russians and conduct offensive operations.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 06:00 on 14 September

Details: A total of 29 combat clashes took place on the contact line over the past day.

Quote from General Staff: "The Defence Forces of Ukraine continue to conduct defence in the east and south of Ukraine, an offensive operation on the Melitopol front and offensive operations on the Bakhmut front, destroying the enemy, liberating the temporarily occupied territories step by step, and consolidating their positions."

Details: In the area of responsibility of the Khortytsia Operational-Strategic Group on the Kupiansk and Bakhmut fronts, the Russians continue to try to break through the defences of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the areas north-east of Berestove in Kharkiv Oblast; Bilohorivka in Luhansk Oblast; and Bohdanivka in Donetsk Oblast. In turn, the Defence Forces had partial success in the areas of Bakhmut, Klishchiika, Andriivka and Kurdiumivka in Donetsk Oblast, inflicting significant losses on the manpower and equipment of the Russian forces.

In the zone of responsibility of the Tavriia Operational-Strategic Group, the defenders are steadfastly holding the defence of Marinka. Over the past day, the Russians made 14 unsuccessful attempts to force Ukrainian units out of their positions. The General Staff emphasises that all Russian attacks in the areas of Mala Tokmachka and Verbove in Zaporizhzhia Oblast resulted in significant losses in both manpower and equipment. At the same time, on the Avdiivka, Marinka and Shakhtarsk fronts, the Defence Forces continue to hold the initiative, put pressure on the Russians, conduct assault operations and regain our land.

On the Melitopol front, the Defence Forces continue their offensive, inflicting significant losses in manpower and equipment on the Russian forces.

In the zone of responsibility of the Odesa Operational-Strategic Group on the Kherson front, the Defence Forces continue to conduct counter-battery operations, destroying storage points and successfully striking at the rear areas of the Russian forces.

The operational situation in the zone of responsibility of Operational Command Pivnich (North) on the Volyn and Polissia fronts remains unchanged.

On the Sivershcyna and Slobozhanshchyna fronts, the Russians continue to keep troops covering the state border, conduct active sabotage actions in the border areas and increase the density of minefields along the state border in Belgorod Oblast.

Over the past day, Defence Forces aircraft carried out 12 strikes on areas where personnel and military equipment were concentrated and two strikes on anti-aircraft missile systems belonging to the Russians.

Rocket Forces and Artillery units and unmanned aerial systems destroyed one command post, one anti-aircraft missile system, one cluster of weapons and military equipment, 15 artillery systems, two ammunition storage points and an electronic warfare station.

Background:

Over the past day, the Russians launched two missile strikes and 92 air strikes, firing 42 times from MLRSs on both Ukrainian troop positions and civilian targets.

Over the course of 13 September, the Russians attacked Ukraine with 47 Shahed-136/131 kamikaze drones, 35 of which were destroyed. The Russian terrorist attacks resulted in civilian casualties as well as destruction and damage to port infrastructure, private residential buildings and other civilian infrastructure facilities.

The following settlements were hit by air strikes: Morokhovets, Pletenivka, Petropavlivka and Kyslivka in Kharkiv Oblast; Stepok in Sumy Oblast; Novoselivske, Novoiehorivka and Bilohorivka in Luhansk Oblast; Siversk, Spirne, Kurdiumivka, Klishchiyivka, Krasnohorivka and New-York in Donetsk Oblast; Robotyno and Zapasne in Zaporizhzhya Oblast; and Odradokamianka and Prydniprovske in Kherson Oblast.

About 100 settlements in Kharkiv, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson oblasts came under artillery fire.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Experts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), having analysed data from open sources, have pointed out the advance of Ukrainian defenders in the west of Zaporizhzhia Oblast and on the Bakhmut front on 13 September.

Source: ISW

Details: Analysts note that Ukrainian troops have advanced in the western part of Zaporizhzhia Oblast and are reported to have advanced on the Bakhmut front on 13 September against a backdrop of counteroffensive operations in both sectors of the front.

Geolocation data released on 12 September indicated that Ukrainian forces had made partial gains south of Robotyne (12 km south of Orikhiv) in the western part of Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

The review indicates that the Ukrainian General Staff reported on 13 September that Ukrainian forces had made partial gains near Robotyne, as well as near Klishchiivka (7 km south-west of Bakhmut), Andriivka (10 km south-west of Bakhmut) and Kurdiumivka (13 km south-west of Bakhmut) on the Bakhmut front.

The report also cites the words of Russian milbloggers, one of whom claimed that Russian troops had withdrawn from several unidentified locations near Klishchiivka and have taken up defensive positions behind the railway line east of the village.

In addition, the Russians say that fighting continues in Klishchiivka and north of it, and that they are holding positions on the northeastern outskirts of the village.

Even the Russian milbloggers claimed that most of Klishchiivka is currently in a "grey zone."

To quote the ISWs Key Takeaways for 14 September:

Ukrainian forces conducted missile strikes on occupied Sevastopol, Crimea, on 13 September, damaging a Russian landing ship, a Kilo class submarine, and port infrastructure.

Ukrainian forces advanced in western Zaporizhzhia Oblast and reportedly advanced near Bakhmut amid continued counteroffensive operations on both sectors of the front on 13 September.

Russian forces conducted a series of Shahed-131/136 drone strikes targeting Sumy and Odesa Oblasts on the night of 12-13 September.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is likely concerned that Russias growing relationship with North Korea may endanger Russias existing sanctions evasion schemes.

The Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) reportedly temporarily disrupted a Wagner Group force rotation to Syria amid reports of the Russian MoDs ongoing efforts to subsume Wagner operations in Syria.

Russian forces conducted offensive operations along the Kupiansk-Svatove-Kreminna line, near Bakhmut, along the Avdiivka-Donetsk City line, in the western Donetsk-eastern Zaporizhzhia Oblast border area, and in western Zaporizhzhia Oblast but did not make any confirmed advances.

Reports from Western and Russian independent sources indicate that Russia has circumvented some Western sanctions to increase weapons production but still struggles to produce weapons at the pace required by the war in Ukraine.

The Ukrainian Main Military Intelligence Directorate (GUR) published footage showing GUR and Ukrainian partisans conducting a drone strike on a Russian occupation passportization office in occupied Enerhodar, Zaporizhzhia Oblast on 12 September.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraines Foreign Minister, has said there is "progress" in providing Kyiv with long-range ATACMS and Taurus missiles.

Source: Kuleba during the national 24/7 newscast, quoted by Radio Liberty

Quote: "We are very actively engaged in this. The President holds daily talks or meetings to speed up the delivery of what has already been promised and to obtain new commitments from partners to supply weapons to us.

There are, of course, some super-priority topics  first of all, air-defence systems.

We are actively working on obtaining ATACMS from the US and Taurus from Germany. There is progress on both tracks."

Details: The minister said final decisions have not yet been made in Berlin and Washington.

Background:

Earlier it was reported that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hopes to persuade his US counterpart, Joe Biden, to approve the decision to supply the Ukrainian army with long-range ATACMS systems in autumn 2023.

The Financial Times recently reported that US President Joe Biden is close to making a decision on supplying Ukraine with long-range ATACMS missiles.

Kyiv has long been asking the United States for ATACMS missiles, as it would allow Ukraine to strike deeper into the Russian rear.

Earlier, the US media unofficially learned that the decision on ATACMS missiles for Ukraine could be made in the near future and they could be included in one of the next assistance packages.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
(CNN)  Apple is fighting Frances claims that the iPhone 12 surpasses European radiation exposure limits after French regulators on Tuesday ordered a pause on sales and a fix to phones already sold to customers.

Frances National Frequency Agency said it has demanded that Apple withdraw the iPhone 12 from the French market, effective 12 September 2023, as measures show the specific absorption rate exceeds the set limits. The agency said the iPhone 12 is not compliant with European Union regulations.

Apple must immediately adopt all necessary measures to prevent the iPhone 12 in the supply chain from being made available on the market, ANFR added.

Disputing the agencys claims, Apple said it had already given the agency multiple lab results conducted by the company and independent third parties that showed the devices compliance with relevant SAR regulations and global standards.

The company said it was contesting the AFNRs review results and would continue to work with the agency to demonstrate the phones compliance.

SAR is a measure of the rate of energy absorption by the body from the source being measured, according to the ANFR. But experts and regulators generally say not to worry.

To date, and after much research performed, no adverse health effect has been causally linked with exposure to wireless technologies, according to the World Health Organization. Provided that the overall exposure remains below international guidelines, no consequences for public health are anticipated.

ANFR ruled that for iPhone 12s already in use, Apple must adopt all necessary corrective measures to bring the telephones into conformity as soon as possible, otherwise, Apple will have to recall the equipment.

The measure was effective from Tuesday, with the regulator adding it would ensure the product is no longer offered for sale in all distribution channels in France from that day.

Frances Minister for the Digital Economy Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed in a tweet that iPhone 12 sales are halted in France until Apple offers an update for all affected devices.

The @anfr found that the iPhone 12 was emitting a level of waves slightly higher than the authorized threshold, Barrot wrote in another tweet, translated from French. This level is more than 10 times lower than the level at which there could be a health risk.

The announcement came as Apple unveiled the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, Apples newest iteration of its iconic product, at its annual keynote event in California on Tuesday.
Ukraine expects that after 15 September, when the ban on grain exports to the EU expires, the European side will cancel all restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural production.

Source: European Pravda, citing Oleh Nikolenko, spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, on Facebook

Details: Nikolenko says that the European Commission has no reason to continue the ban due to five main reasons:

1. Ukraine and the European Union have created a joint coordination platform, which has worked out strategies to deal with all concerns voiced by some European countries.

2. The export of Ukrainian agricultural products is not the cause of destabilisation of the European market.

Despite the EU ban and the long-term absence of imports of Ukrainian grain, the problems of farmers in Slovakia, Poland, Romania and Hungary have not been resolved, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs notes.

The ministry emphasises that it is necessary that, first of all, their governments find national solutions, and certainly not at the expense of restrictions for Ukraine, for which Brussels has several support tools.

3. Bulgaria's decision to resume imports of Ukrainian grain only confirms the groundlessness of unilateral restrictive measures.

4.The artificial limitation of Ukrainian exports plays into the hands of the Russian Federation, a competitor of Ukraine in the world grain market.

The ministry says there are no bans for the Russian Federation on the EU market, while a reduction in Ukrainian grain supplies means an opportunity for Russia to earn more money for its war against Ukraine.

5. The import ban is illegal because it violates the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU, as well as the principles and norms of the EU Single Market.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine also welcomed Bulgaria's decision to resume imports of Ukrainian grain, and called on other EU member states neighbouring Ukraine to follow its example.

Background:

Commenting on the expiration of the ban on importing Ukrainian grain, the European Commission stated that there is no decision at the EU level yet.

On 12 September, the Polish government adopted a resolution declaring its intention to extend the ban at the national level if it is not extended by the EU.

Ukraines Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced that Ukraine would request the arbitration of the World Trade Organisation if Poland blocked the export of Ukrainian grain.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Soldiers of Ukraines Special Operations Forces showed an archival video from near Blahodatne, Donetsk Oblast, where they killed six Russian servicemen and took eight more prisoners.

Source: Special Operations Forces Command

Quote: "During the operation, the Special Operations Forces killed six and captured eight invaders.

June 2023. During an operation in the vicinity of the village of Blahodatne, Donetsk Oblast, the operators of the 3rd Separate Special Purpose Regiment named after Prince Svyatoslav Khorobry carried out an assault and mopping-up operation of enemy positions.

The video shows [Russian] invaders who made the right decision and surrendered. Their colleagues were not so lucky."

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
The Defence Forces of Ukraine launched attacks on two Russian patrol ships in the southwestern part of the Black Sea on the morning of 14 September.

Source: StratCom of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

Quote: "On 14 September 2023, the Defence Forces launched attacks on two patrol ships of the Vasiliy Bykov, Project 22160, of the occupying Russian fleet in the southwestern part of the Black Sea. The ships have been damaged."

Note: The Project 22160 is a class of patrol ships. There are four of them at sea in Russia  Vasiliy Bykov, Dmitry Rogachev, Pavel Derzhavin and Sergey Kotov.

Background: Explosions rang out in occupied Yevpatoriia, Crimea, on the morning of 14 September. The Russian Defence Ministry reported a drone attack on Crimea and an attempt to attack the Black Sea Fleet patrol ship Sergei Kotov by unmanned surface vessels (USV).

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
Three Ukrainian journalists have received a special German Hanns Joachim Friedrichs award.

Source: Hann Joachim Friedrichs Award website

The prize winners were Sevhil Musaieva, Editor-in-Chief of Ukrainska Pravda; Nataliia Humeniuk, co-founder of the Hromadske TV channel, and Olha Rudenko, Editor-in-Chief and co-founder of Kyiv Independent, the award website reports.

The organisers of the award say these journalists represent all those who perform professional work in extremely difficult and dangerous conditions.

Quote: "The winners of the award and their media are published not only in Ukrainian, but also in English, thus offering important and, above all, independent sources for an international audience," the award website says.

The organisers of the award noted that these journalists are representatives of the Ukrainian generation, which has long been fighting for freedom of speech, democracy and transparency.

Quote: "It is this generation that the Kremlin is especially afraid of and wants to destroy," the organisers say.

Hanns Joachim Friedrichs is a German TV journalist who is called "the godfather of serious German television culture". Friends and colleagues have founded a television journalism award in his honour, which is awarded to critical and unbiased journalists. The jury includes the founders and previous laureates of the award.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
The large landing ship Minsk, destroyed in the dock of the shipyard in Sevastopol

Ukraines Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) has confirmed that a submarine and a landing ship in the Russian Black Sea Fleet have been put out of action, according to spokesman Andriy Yusov late on Sep. 13.

"We can now talk about the fact that, with a high probability, the ships are beyond restoration," Yusov said.

Oryx, a leading open source intelligence (OSINT) agency, has analyzed photos of a dock in the occupied city of Sevastopol where the Minsk large landing ship was undergoing repair at the time of the attack. The agency concluded that the ship had been destroyed.

"There is now visual confirmation that the Ropucha-class landing ship Minsk has been destroyed, not just damaged," Oryx posted on Twitter/X. They have not published information regarding the status of the Kilo class Rostov-na-Donu submarine, also reportedly involved in theattack.

Read also: Ukraine confirms attack on Sevastopol shipyard, two Russian ships damaged

In the early hours of Sept. 13, powerful explosions shook the Russia-occupied city of Sevastopol.

Local residents assisted in launching a missile attack against the Russian fleet in Crimea on the same night, according to the Atesh partisan movement.

"Thank you to the people of Sevastopol who send data, photos, and coordinates with valuable information every day. Intelligence is bearing fruit, and we will continue to work together with theDefense Forces of Ukraine to destroy enemy troops," Atesh said.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Ukrainian pilots have successfully tested Swedish Gripen fighter jets as Stockholm is considering sending the planes to Ukraine, Swedish Radio reported on Sept. 14, citing the country's Defense Minister Pal Jonson.

According to the report, Ukraine's pilots have undergone orientation training which includes flights in the aircraft, simulators, and instructions for ground personnel.

Jonson said that the results of the training should help the Swedish government decide on the possibility of sending Gripens to Ukraine.

Kyiv has been seeking to obtain modern Western fighter jets to bolster its Air Force in the fight against Russian aggression.

The Swedish leadership has been previously reluctant to pledge its Gripen fighters, arguing that it has to consider its own defense needs as Sweden is not yet a NATO member.

Recently, Stockholm appears to have softened its stance. The Swedish Radio reported on Sept. 12 that the government has ordered the military to investigate the possibility of transferring Gripens to bolster Ukraine.

Gripens are not the only Western jets that Ukraine seeks to acquire. Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands have already pledged to transfer some of their F-16 planes and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that Kyiv is also interested in French-made Rafale jets.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Ukrainian pilots have completed their "orientation" test flights on Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets, Sveriges Radio reported on Sept. 14, citing Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson.

"Orientation training has been completed, and according to the report I received from the Armed Forces, it went well," Jonson said.

Read also: Swedens PM temporarily rules out supplying Gripen jets to Ukraine

"The experience gained from the orientation training will form the basis for determining whether the conditions are right for Gripen jets to be sent to Ukraine.

A Ukrainian technical team had already arrived in Sweden to prepare for a possible training mission, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Aug. 23.

On Aug. 19, reports emerged that Ukrainian military personnel were undergoing testing for the aircraft. Ukraine hopes to receive 1618 Saab JAS 39 Gripen jets from Sweden.

Read also: Sweden will train Ukrainian pilots on JAS 39 Gripen jets

The Swedish government will soon direct its armed forces to examine the possibility of transferring Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine, Sveriges Radio reported on Sep. 12, citing informed sources.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
A Ukrainian soldier said rifles are a thing of the past, and drones are the future of warfare.

Valentyn Ilchuk told Metro that he and his three-man unit use drones to target Russian forces.

"If you ask me what war will be like in five to 10 years, there will be far fewer rifles," he said.

A Ukrainian soldier said his unit has not shot their rifles in six months, with the focus heavily on drone warfare.

Valentyn Ilchuk, the leader of what he called a three-man "hunter-killer crew," has been sharing his military exploits on Facebook from the southeastern Zaporizhzhia region, where the Ukrainian counteroffensive is making slow progress.

Ilchuk's unit uses self-exploding drones to target Russian positions far behind the front lines, and he told Metro newspaper that these weapons are the future of modern warfare.

"If you ask me what war will be like in five to 10 years, there will be far fewer rifles," he said.

"Sometimes we joke about having to drag our rifles around with us because, in half a year, we haven't shot them once," he told the outlet, adding: "This is the future of warfare: shooting drones at each other rather than bullets or shells."

Ilchuk and his unit have proved creative with their drones, attaching grenades and carrying a larger payload, per the outlet.

They've also used DJI Mavic quadcopters and agricultural drones as bombers, the outlet reported.

However, Ilchuk said the weapons provided by Ukraine's defense ministry can only take them so far, according to a Facebook post. As a result, he has launched a fundraising drive to buy more drones, batteries, munition drop systems, reconnaissance drones, and other "much-needed" equipment.

Russian and Ukrainian forces have leaned heavily into using drones in the current conflict, both for reconnaissance as well as for carrying explosive payloads.

Last Friday, the Ukrainian energy company Okko published footage showing Ukraine's military using a single drone with a high optical zoom to locate the positions of Russian surface-to-air defenses, which were then destroyed with HIMARS.

Recent drone assaults in Russia have also called into question the country's ostensibly sophisticated air defense systems, which are struggling to deal with smaller, difficult-to-detect drones.

Samuel Bendett, an analyst and expert in unmanned and robotic military systems at the Center for Naval Analyses, previously told Insider that Russia's defense systems are not geared toward identifying small drones.

In late August, Ukraine's Security Service told the Kyiv Post that it used "cardboard" drones from Australia to damage five fighter planes at a Russian airfield.

More recently, Ukrainian IT company Cosmolot said it had delivered the first of 15 "Punisher" attack drones to the Ukrainian army, which it claimed were resistant to electronic warfare.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Ukrainian volunteer groups have been constructing makeshift explosive drones for the country's army.

The improvised explosive-dropping devices are cobbled together using Chinese DJI copters.

One drone technician said he's worried China could suspend the accounts needed to make the drones fly.

Ukrainian drone pilots are worried that China could remotely lock them out of their homemade devices patched together using Chinese products.

In the last few months, Ukrainian forces have been expanding their usage of makeshift tactical drones carrying explosives, Insider previously reported.

Units like the Adam Tactical Group rely on homemade First-Person-View (FPV) drones that have been cobbled together by grassroots volunteer organizations, according to the Kyiv Independent.

The cheap, improvised drones worth only a few hundred bucks are constructed using 3-D printing techniques, combined with parts manufactured by a Chinese company called DJI, and retrofitted with explosives, the outlet reported.

A drone technician for the Adam Group, Vitalii, told the Kyiv Independent that he is concerned China will decide to suspend the accounts Ukraine needs to make the drones function properly, effectively cutting the war-torn country off from one of its most essential pieces of equipment.

"All this equipment, on which our whole reconnaissance architecture is built, will turn into nothing more than a coaster for your coffee," Vitalii told the Kyiv Independent.

DJI produces civilian drones and requires pilots to sign into an account in order to bypass height and distance limits on their use.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 13)  Expelled Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo Teves Jr. is allegedly still hiding in Southeast Asia and is being protected by a few local warlords, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said on Wednesday.

Yun ang balita sa'min [Thats the information that reached us], he said in a media briefing.

Pero titignan natin kasi ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) yan eh [But well see, because thats ASEAN]. Under the ASEAN, we can actually ask them more upfront about what's happening in their countries, especially somebody who is a known terrorist being harbored by anybody, the official added.

Remulla, meanwhile, also said the government is still finalizing its letter to the United Nations, informing the body that an arrest order has been issued against Teves who has been designated as a terrorist.

Earlier this month, a Manila court issued an arrest warrant against the ex-congressman for the murder of former Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and nine others in March.

Asked if the supposed warlords are seen to hinder the arrest, Remulla said he believes they wont be a problem. He added that Philippine authorities are now tracking Teves movements more tightly.

We consider it our duty to inform the United Nations, so that the United Nations may as well do its duty of informing all the member-states about the duty of rendition to arrest Arnie Teves and company and bring them back to the Philippines for trial, Remulla said.

He explained that duty of rendition compels other nations to arrest terrorists and bring them back to the country where they are wanted on suspicion of criminal activities.

In a statement on Thursday, Teves lawyer Atty. Ferdinand Topacio questioned Remullas claims, daring him to identify the supposed warlords.

"Which 'warlords' is he talking about? Who are these 'warlords'? How do they even qualify as warlords? Mr. Remulla, could you please identify who these warlords are [and] where and why they are considered warlords? Are they in Afghanistan? In Somalia? he said.

And please do not hide behind your stock answer of purportedly not dignifying questions from us, which we all know is the way of the weakling. These are legitimate questions, he added.

Teves has denied the accusations against him, including his alleged links to killings in his province, calling them a form of "political persecution."

CNN Philippines Anjo Alimario contributed to this report.
The United Nations human rights body (UNJHRO) has received reports of at least 13 mass graves in the Sudanese city of El Geneina, a special envoy to the war-torn country told the UN Security Council Wednesday.

The mass graves are believed to contain civilians from the ethnic Masalit tribe who were killed in attacks by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied Arab militias, according to UN envoy Volker Perthes.

Perthes, who announced he was stepping down as the UN Special Representative for Sudan, added that the human rights violations were being documented and if verified, may constitute war crimes.

Ethnic related killings have intensified since fighting broke out mid-April between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF.

The Masalit tribe and other non-Arab communities in Sudan are often targeted by Arab militias, with support from the RSF, according to Human Rights Watch.

A report released in July by the human rights body found that at least 28 ethnic Masalit were executed by the RSF and its allied militias during an attack on Misterei, a village in El Geneina that is home to thousands of Masalit residents.

Experts have expressed concern that the recent ethnic related killings reverberate the Darfur genocide of the early 2000s that left hundreds of thousands of people killed during an ethnic cleansing campaign by an Arab militia known at the time as the Janjaweed.

The recent discovery of mass graves containing members of the Masalit tribe is the second such discovery this year.

At least 87 people, mostly ethnic Masalit, were discovered in a mass grave in El-Geneinas Al-Madaress and Al-Jamarek districts in July. The UN Human Rights Office said they may have been killed a month before by the RSF and their allied militia.

Last week, the United States imposed sanctions on RSFs deputy leader Abdelrahim Dagalo for human rights violations after a series of CNN investigations exposed the groups brutal war strategies.

Sudans military government also issued a decree to dissolve the RSF citing rebellion, including the grave violations they committed against citizens, among others.

Fighting between Sudans armed forces and the RSF has escalated in the countrys capital Khartoum, leaving at least 5,000 people dead and over 12,000 inured, according to UN figures.

At least 43 people were killed on Sunday after a market in southern Khartoum was hit by an airstrike, a Sudanese doctors union said. Another 32 civilians were killed days before in a similar strike in Omdurman, also in Khartoum.

More than 4 million people have fled the violence across Sudan, with more than half having fled the capital alone, according to the International Organization for Migration.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
(Bloomberg) -- The International Atomic Energy Agency may soon run out of money to monitor the worlds nuclear stockpiles because the US, China and others arent paying their dues, marking the latest frontline in the tug of war between Washington and Beijing for influence.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Draft documents seen by Bloomberg show a hole of about 220 million ($235 million) in the watchdogs 650 million budget for this year, with the US and China being the biggest debtors. The Vienna-based agency ensures that nuclear fuel used to generate electricity isnt diverted for weapons, regulates global nuclear-safety standards and provides developing nations with access to technologies.

The US and China  also the biggest donors at a more than a combined 137 million  are increasingly at loggerheads over issues such as Japans release of treated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant and Australias intention to buy nuclear-powered submarines. Countries traditionally exert pressure on the United Nations agencys purse strings to sway its decision-making.

Both the American and Chinese missions to the IAEA declined requests for comment. In a diplomatic note circulated late Wednesday, the Chinese government said the IAEA was at risk of privatization by Western nations that have control over its board of governors.

The independent role of the secretariat in fulfilling its duties must be based on the understanding and support of member states, Chinas envoy, Li Song, said in a separate statement posted on the embassys website.

Its the second time in a month IAEA governance issues have bubbled to to the surface, with the cash crunch exposing another potential weak link for a nuclear industry that leans heavily on regulators. With atomic power growing rapidly in China but struggling in Western nations, Beijings government is fighting for IAEA influence commensurate with its rising profile in supply chains.

Although the arrears are relatively small  the US owes 77 million and China 60 million  theyre undercutting the work of agency inspectors trying to account for stockpiles of fissile material that could arm more than 300,000 nuclear weapons.

We may be grinding to a halt in a month if we dont get the money that is owed, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said Monday. Its time for some important countries to walk the walk.

A full 44% of members are in some state of arrears, Grossi said. Full figures are expected to be published next week, ahead of the agencys annual general conference

Theres a relatively small group of countries that are the largest contributors and this is where the problem lies, he said. We were getting contributions even during the lowest point of the Covid crisis. It is a peculiar thing that is happening.

The last time the IAEA was in such dire financial straits was in the mid-1990s, Grossi said. Back then, some member states suffered a crisis of confidence in the agency because its safeguards proved inadequate in detecting Iraqs nuclear-weapons work prior to the 1990 Gulf War. That failure led to new rules making it harder for countries to cheat.

Every year the quantity of nuclear material under IAEA safeguards is increasing, as are the number of nuclear facilities, said Tariq Rauf, the agencys former policy chief, calling it essential for the delinquent payments to be made.

Under the motto Atoms for Peace, the IAEA was founded by President Dwight Eisenhower in 1957 to commercialize nuclear-energy technologies first developed for weapons. Historically, Washington has funded about a quarter of the agencys budget in installments, tending to wait until the end of the year for transfers to clear.

Beijings contributions have more than tripled in the past decade on the back of a $400 billion program to expand nuclear generation.

(Adds IAEA director general in the tenth paragraph)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
The University of North Carolinas Chapel Hill campus was put on lockdown for the second time in two weeks after an armed person waved a gun inside a bagel shop.

An alert was sent out at 12.54pm ET on Wednesday, asking students and staff to go inside now and to avoid windows because of the threat on or near campus. An all-clear alert was put out at 2.10pm.

An official told The Daily Tar Heel that the incident came when the suspect allegedly brandished a gun at Alpine Bagel over an employment-related conflict.

No shots were fired and police said that suspect Mickel Deonte Harris, 27, was arrested at around 2.45pm just north of the campus.

This marks the second terrifying incident at the school in just over two weeks. On 28 August, the campus was on lockdown for hours amid reports of an armed and dangerous person.

That person was identified as Tailei Qi, a 34-year-old graduate student who allegedly shot and killed Zijie Yan, an associate professor in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences.

Key points

UNC plunged into lockdown after man waves gun at bagel shop

Suspect Mickel Deonte Harris arrested north of campus

Incident said to be employment-related

Suspect had outstanding warrants for arrest

Alert lifted and campus given all-clear

Incident comes two weeks after professor allegedly shot dead by student on campus

Breaking: UNC campus on lockdown

10:03 , Graeme Massie

The University of North Carolina campus was placed into lockdown over an armed and dangerous person just two weeks after a faculty member was fatally shot there.

A campus alert was sent out at 12.54pm ET, asking students and staff to go inside now and to avoid windows because of the threat posed on or near campus.

The alert was lifted an hour later and a suspect has now been arrested.

Read more:

UNC campus on lockdown over armed and dangerous person two weeks after shooting

ICYMI | News University of North Carolina students rally for gun safety

08:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

A shooting that left a faculty member dead and frightened students at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in August has galvanized gun safety advocates and local Democrats, who rallied the grieving campus community Wednesday to fight for stricter state gun laws.

About 600 students held protest signs on a large lawn in the heart of campus and bowed their heads during a moment of silence as the iconic campus Bell Tower rang in honor of the deceased associate professor, Zijie Yan.

More here.

University of North Carolina students rally for gun safety after fatal shooting of faculty member

Police name suspect taken into custody

07:58 , Graeme Massie

Police say that Mickel Deonte Harris, 27, of Durham, North Carolina, was taken into custody north of the UNC campus at around 2.45pm, according to WRAL.

Suspect taken into custody after UNC campus lockdown (ABC11)

Didnt want to experience the trauma again, says sophomore UNC student

07:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

Students, who returned to the Chapel Hill campus after the 28 August shooting, just wanted a fresh start but were forced to undergo the same trauma after the campus was put on a lockdown due to reports of an armed and dangerous person.

I didnt want to experience the trauma again, sophomore student Brooke Riggs told the Washington Post.

The lockdown was imposed yesterday after a gunman was confronted by an employee of Alpine Bagel, located on campus.

The suspect was later arrested and no shots were fired, the police said.

That doesnt take away from the gravity and trauma and the deep emotional pain that comes from situations like this, the student said. The UNC campus has a collective wound, and this event has exacerbated it.

Voices | The shooting in Chapel Hill took away the magic of a place I love

07:00 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

When I first set foot in Chapel Hill, I remember feeling at home at once. Despite being a Yankee who grew up on the West Coast, and even as sweat forced me to repeatedly change shirts amid the August humidity, the University of North Carolina was love at first sight for me.

The words of novelist and alumnus Thomas Wolfe that Chapel Hill was as close to magic as Ive ever been rang as true to me as the gongs from the Bell Tower on campus tell the changing of time, writes Eric Garcia.

The shooting in Chapel Hill took away the magic of a place I call home

UNC students hid under tables at on-campus bagel shop: Oh my God thats a gun

06:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

Allie Agnoli, a student at the Chapel Hill campus, said she had to barricade herself and her roommate at a booth inside an on-campus bagel shop.

We got under the table and got as close as we could. My roommate kinda froze and said what do we do and I was like just get down, the student told WRAL News.

In the moment I had a split second of thinking to myself oh my God thats a gun and the next thought was  again, it is happening again, she said.

Ms Agnoli feared that someone would be shot in front of her and turn around to shoot her next.

A worker at the shop reportedly pleaded with the gunman to put the weapon away, prompting him to eventually leave the establishment.

We just grabbed our backpacks and ran through the back of Alpine and we were running across the street just to get away, Ms Agnoli said.

As we ran, I called 911 and gave a description. That was my first time calling 911.

She added that it was at least 10 minutes since she made the 911 call that the campus authorities put out an alert.

Police gave all clear on UNC campus after one hour lockdown

06:10 , Graeme Massie

UNC campus police lifted the lockdown after more than an hour following reports of an armed and dangerous person.

A campus alert was sent out at 12.54pm ET, asking students and staff to go inside now and to avoid windows because of the threat posed on or near campus.

At 2.10pm the university put out an updated alert that stated: All clear. All clear. Resume normal activities.

!Alert Carolina!

All clear. All clear. Resume normal activities. https://t.co/7frHnEuMIU  UNC Police (@UNCPolice) September 13, 2023

Suspect has a lengthy criminal history  reports

05:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

Mickel Deonte Harris, 27, was arrested on Wednesday on outstanding warrants related to a road rage incident on 5 September.

Authorities confirmed that Mr Harris was connected with the lockdown and gun scare at the University of North Carolinas Chapel Hill campus.

He was arrested from the Greenfield Complex, located about 10 to 12 minutes away from the campus, ABC11 reported.

Mr Harris reportedly has a lengthy criminal history which dates back to at least 2013, the report said.

UNC Chapel Hill campus left eerily empty during lockdown

05:00 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

The University of North Carolinas Chapel Hill campus was put on lockdown for the second time in two weeks after reports of an armed and dangerous person.

Video shows an empty campus and how some students dropped everything  including bags  and ran.

An alert was sent out at 12.54pm ET, asking students and staff to go inside now and to avoid windows because of the threat on or near campus.

UNC Chapel Hill campus left eerily empty as armed person triggers lockdown

Lockdown came 24 hours after UNC students protested state gun laws

04:05 , Graeme Massie

The latest lockdown came just 24 hours after UNC students protested state gun laws at the State House in nearby Raleigh, chanting Vote Them Out towards the politicians present.

Just last month, Zijie Yan, an associate professor in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences, was gunned down on the Chapel Hill campus.

UNC students, protesting NC gun laws following on-campus shooting, chanted Vote Them Out in the state House just now.



House Speaker Tim Moore (a UNC grad, in a Tar Heels tie today) joked as police escorted the students out that they must have secretly been Duke students #ncpol pic.twitter.com/LxVj1a73kH  Will Doran (@will_doran) September 12, 2023

UNC at Chapel Hill on partial lockdown till midnight

04:04 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

The University of North Carolinas Chapel Hill campus was put on a complete lockdown today until 5pm following reports of an armed and dangerous person.

From 5pm to midnight, the university said it would operate at a condition 2 status with classes cancelled and all non-mandatory operations suspended.

Latest alert comes two weeks after professor Zijie Yan shot on campus

02:03 , Graeme Massie

Zijie Yan, an associate professor in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences and a researcher, was shot and killed last month on campus sparking an hours-long lockdown.

Mr Yan was listed as the academic adviser to alleged killer UNC PhD student Tailei Qi, 34, who was arrested in the shooting.

Before joining UNC in 2019, Mr Yan was an assistant professor at Clarkson University in New York and received postdoctoral training at the University of Chicago. The slain professor left behind two young daughters.

He was shot at Caudill Laboratory which is roughly a quarter-mile from the student union that houses Alpine Bagel Cafe where police have zeroed in on in the incident on Wednesday. Students were seen running from the student union, WRAL reported.

Read more:

Who was UNC Chapel Hill shooting victim Zijie Yan?

UNC chancellor reacts to campus incident

Thursday 14 September 2023 00:00 , Graeme Massie

Its sad and alarming that there have been two lockdowns over the past 16 days on our campus, UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz told reporters. Weve had to apprehend individuals that have violated the safety of our community.

Police investigating motive for campus incident

Wednesday 13 September 2023 23:01 , Graeme Massie

UNC Police Chief Brian James said authorities did not know Harriss motive and were reviewing footage of the incident at a bagel store at the student union.

We are exploring what their relationship was, Chief James said of the suspects connection with the former Alpine Bagel Shop employee. We believe there was some type of connection.

Classes cancelled for remainder of day

Wednesday 13 September 2023 20:33 , Graeme Massie

UNC will cancel all classes for Wednesday, 13 September, according to an email sent to the universitys faculty, reported The Daily Tar Heel.

One person taken into custody, says report

Wednesday 13 September 2023 20:03 , Graeme Massie

Police have taken one person into custody on Formosa Lane in Chapel Hill, north of the UNC campus, reported WRAL.

UNC police advise students and staff to silence phones

Wednesday 13 September 2023 19:00 , Andrea Cavallier

!Alert Carolina! Emergency - Update: Reports of an armed & dangerous person. Continue to shelter, silence your phones, and check https://t.co/7frHnEuMIU for information.  UNC Police (@UNCPolice) September 13, 2023

Police on lookout for suspect involved in incident at Alpine Bagel

Wednesday 13 September 2023 18:46 , Andrea Cavallier

Police are on the lookout for a suspect involved in an incident at Alpine Bagel at the UNC Student Union after a person was seen with a firearm, according to WRAL.

Sources told the TV station that no shots have been fired.

Video from the scene showed law enforcement vehicles parked near the student union near the intersection of Stadium Drive and South Road, and audio of the sirens going off across the campus were posted to X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools in secure mode

Wednesday 13 September 2023 18:42 , Andrea Cavallier

All Chapel Hill-Carrboro City schools have been advised to enter Secure Mode due to reports of an armed and dangerous person on or near the UNC campus.

This means the doors will be locked, people are not allowed in or out, and classroom instruction can continue normally inside, according to a tweet.

Stay close to your phone & email for updates as we monitor this new & ongoing situation, it advised.

(2/2) All CHCCS schools have been advised to enter Secure Mode which means the doors will be locked, people are not allowed in or out, & classroom instruction can continue normally inside.



Stay close to your phone & email for updates as we monitor this new & ongoing situation.  Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (@chccs) September 13, 2023

UNC employee tweets taking cover in library following alert

Wednesday 13 September 2023 18:37 , Andrea Cavallier

There has been another shooting. This time it was in the campus bagel shop. A colleague and I were in the pit right next to it but ran into in the library. We are currently back in lockdown and unsure of the situation. Please reach out again to your UNC folks. I cannot believe it  Jake Sirlin (@jakesirlin) September 13, 2023

UNC issues alert after reports of armed and dangerous person on campus

Wednesday 13 September 2023 18:28 , Andrea Cavallier

A University of North Carolina campus alert was sent out at 12.54pm ET, asking students and staff to go inside now and to avoid windows because of the threat posed on or near campus.

The campus has been placed into lockdown over an armed and dangerous person.

UNC Media Relations said they have no additional information at this time.

!Alert Carolina!

Emergency: Armed, dangerous person on or near campus. Go inside now; avoid windows. https://t.co/7frHnEuMIU  UNC Police (@UNCPolice) September 13, 2023
Corrections & clarifications: A previous version of this story misrepresented the combined profits of the "Big Three" automakers. They made a combined $21 billion in profits in the first six months of the year.

No Indiana plants are going on strike in the first round of United Auto Workers strikes against the "Big Three" automakers  Ford, Stellantis and General Motors  more U.S. facilities could strike in the coming days.

"If they don't call your local on the first wave, don't get mad," UAW Region 2B director David Green told a crowd of workers in Kokomo, according to Axios. "Don't get mad, it's coming."

As labor contracts expired at 11:59 p.m. Thursday, workers at plants in Michigan, Ohio and Missouri went on strike in a limited rollout strategy UAW president Shawn Fain is calling it a "Stand Up Strike," a reference to the "sit-down strikes" the UAW organized in the 1930s.

Union representatives are asking the three Detroit-based companies for a 46% wage increase, cost of living raises, a 32-hour work week for 40 hours of pay, the end of "tiered wages," or a system where some workers receive automatically lower pay if they start after a certain date, and a return to pensions. Stellantis, Ford and GM made a combined $21 billion in profits in the first six months of this year. UAW members argue that "record profits should mean record wages."

More from Detroit Free Press: UAW plans unusual strike, sources say. Here are the details

Fain, who worked at Kokomo Casting Plant and served as a committeeperson and shop chair of Local 1166 there, is leading strike efforts. Fain was elected as president of UAW in March and is helming the negotiations with the three automakers in a way that's putting pressure on the companies, an expert told the Detroit Free Press.

It's yet another example of the wave of labor union action across the country, from strikes against studios in Hollywood to a narrowly averted work stoppage from UPS workers earlier this summer. A 10-day strike against all Big Three automakers could cost the economy over $5 billion.

Here's what to know about what a UAW strike could mean for Indiana.

Where are the "Big Three" plants in Indiana?

There are at least 10 "Big Three" auto manufacturing facilities in Indiana.

Stellantis has four transmission, casting and engine plants in Kokomo and a transmission facility in Tipton. In total, the company, which manufactures Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge cars, employs over 7,000 workers in Indiana.

More: Indiana AFL-CIO launches '1-stop shop' website to educate, organize Hoosier workers

General Motors has plants scattered throughout the state: a stamping plant in Marion, an assembly plant in Roanoke near Fort Wayne, an electronics manufacturing plant in Kokomo and a casting operations facility in Bedford. General Motors makes Buicks, Chevrolets and Cadillacs and employs over 6,200 workers statewide.

Ford has a parts facility in Plainfield, where workers are represented by UAW Local 933, UAW representative Petra Jameson told IndyStar.

All Indiana locations are represented by local unions within UAW and are affected by national labor action from UAW, according to the Stellantis and General Motors websites and labor representatives. The GM Bedford plant also has representation within the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

What's the strike plan?

Three Big Three plants went on strike starting Friday morning, though more could join the longer contract negotiations drag on.

The first three facilities targeted are Ford Michigan Assembly Plant (Final Assembly and Paint only) in Wayne, Michigan, Stellantis Toledo Assembly Complex in Ohio, and General Motors Wentzville Assembly in Missouri.

This "soft launch" strategy of limited striking would allow the strike to go longer, as a strike across all locations immediately would be costly for the union, the Detroit Free Press reported. But, Fain said, the strategic rollout will also keep the Big Three companies on their toes.

"This strategy will keep the companies guessing," Fain said in a Thursday night Facebook live stream, according to the Free Press. "It will give our national negotiators maximum leverage and flexibility in bargaining. And if we need to go all out, we will. Everything is on the table."

The last time UAW members went on strike was 2019, when General Motors employees walked off the job for 40 days until a new contract was reached.

UAW has an $825 million strike fund, the Free Press reported, but that would be quickly depleted should the 146,000 union members at GM, Stellantis and Ford all strike at the same time. The union would have to pay each striking worker $500 a week, not including health insurance payments.

What Indiana plants will be affected by a strike?

No Indiana plants have been targeted for strikes yet, though more facilities could employ work stoppages in the coming days.

"It is very likely that some Indiana facilities will go on strike," Jameson told IndyStar Thursday.

The Detroit Free Press contributed to this report.

Got a labor story? Contact business reporter Claire Rafford at 317-617-3402 or crafford@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: How a UAW strike could affect Indiana
The editor's note: The first version of this news story said that the village of Andriivka was liberated, according to Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar. It was updated after Ukraine's Third Assault Brigade issued a statement refuting Maliar's claim. Maliar later edited her statement.

Ukraine's Third Assault Brigade, fighting around Bakhmut, denied an earlier report by Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar that the village of Andriivka, Donetsk Oblast, had been liberated.

"The statement about the liberation of Andriivka is false and premature. Currently, serious and heavy fighting continues in Klishchiivka and Andriivka," the brigade reported.

"Such statements are harmful, threaten the lives of personnel, and harm the performance of combat missions."

Read also: Deadly drone arms race intensifies as Ukraine, Russia embrace the future of war

At around 2 p.m. local time on Sept. 14, Maliar wrote on Telegram that Ukrainian forces had liberated Andriivka, around 10 kilometers south of Bakhmut. However, after the Third Assault Brigade refuted the claim, the part of the text about the liberation was deleted from the post.

Instead, Maliar said that the situation in Andriivka was "very complex and changeable."

Even later, Maliar claimed there had been "miscommunication between several sources reporting directly from the scene."

"I do not release such information without coordination and agreement with the military," she said. The official added that Ukrainian forces had achieved some success in Andriivka, but fighting over the settlement was still ongoing.

On the same day, Presidential Office head Andriy Yermak announced "good news from the front lines" but didn't provide any further details.

Andriivka is located between Donetsk Oblasts settlements of Kurdiumivka and Klishchiivka, where the fighting is currently concentrated, according to Maliar.

Russian forces are reportedly trying to recapture the lost positions on Bakhmuts northern flank, while Ukraines military is advancing on the southern flank.

On Sept. 11, Maliar said that Ukrainian troops had regained about 50 square kilometers of land around the eastern city of Bakhmut since the start of the summer counteroffensive.

Ukraines counteroffensive has been ongoing for over three months in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia oblasts.

Read also: As counteroffensive presses forward in southeast, every meter costs a life

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Charlie Reichner isn't a man who gives up easily.

The Nockamixon resident wants to see Route 611 north of Doylestown rebuilt, or at least repaved. The busy corridor, first constructed in the 1950s, is dangerous and costly to drivers, he said, despite over 150 sections being patched over the years.

Reichner alone has spent more than $5,000 on repairs to his truck from the jolts he says it receives going over the bumps along the heavily traveled highway.

He has appealed to legislators over the years and recently started a roadwork campaign, hanging petitions in local stores. So far he's said he's gotten 900 signatures from area residents who also want to see the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation use money from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to repair and repave the highway.

Charles Reichner of Nockamixon points to the raised crack in Route 611 at Ottsville. He and other drivers want the bumps in the roadway fixed as they are affecting their vehicles.

Jeff Bryan, owner of Swamp's Auto Works in Ottsville, shows the front end of his tow truck that he's had to fix twice, he said, due to it hitting bumps on Route 611.

While Reichner would like to see the entire highway from Doylestown north to the Northampton County line rebuilt, he said the roadway in most need is between its intersection with Route 113 and near Marienstein Road in Revere.

One of his co-signers is Jeff Bryan, owner of Swamp's Auto Works on the highway.

Bryan readily admits his business benefits from vehicles that need new tires, wheel alignments and other services from driving along bumpy 611. Even he has had to repair his large, roll-back tow truck.

"It should last over 100,000 miles without doing anything. I've replaced the front end twice because of 611," he said.

How Bucks County roads projects are considered for federal funding

Last week, Reichner asked the Bucks County Commissioners to put the roadway on their Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) request to the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission. TIP is part of the funding, getting federal dollars through the state to pay for local projects.

Bucks County will receive $241.1 million in TIP funds from fiscal year 2023 through 2026. This is the lowest amount for any of the five counties in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

Reichner said the state Secretary of Transportation, other state officials and the TIP coordinator told him the county had to initiate the request for funding for the 611 project he and other envision.

He said that whenever he asked about the roadway before, a PennDOT official told him the road needed to be rebuilt but the state didn't have the money or manpower for the job. But now with the new federal infrastructure aid, he's hoping the work can be done.

"I think it's unsafe," he said. "The problem always was they don't have enough money and personnel."

PennDOT spokesman Brad Rudolph said the infrastructure bill provides $4 billion over five years for highway and bridge improvements in Pennsylvania. Some $1.7 billion of those funds need to be spent on deteriorating bridges, including in Bucks County. There are also funding match requirements to be paid by state and local entiities. Reichner said the federal government also has another $16 billion infrastructure kitty from which the state could request funds.

Rudolph said PennDOT has not developed cost estimates to reconstruct Route 611. But he said it costs the transportation agency $4 million a mile to reconstruct a two-lane highway in asphalt to $4.4 million a mile to do the reconstruction in concrete.

PennDOT has spent $2.08 million on repairs on Route 611 in Bucks since fiscal year 2020.

Deciding on which roads to repair or reconstruct takes PennDOT, working with the DRVPC, years of planning.

"The DVRPC has begun development of the 2025-2028 TIP. The various member organizations have been asked to identify new candidate projects," Rudolph said.

Problems that need to be solved like bridge and pavement conditions, drainage, pedestrian and bicycle accommodation needs are considered, using current design practices to evaluate intersections and roadside safety, he explained.

Bucks County officials are 'evaluating options,' but no current plans for Route 611 fix

County spokesman Jim O'Malley said the county commissioners have a lot to consider when asking for a project to be placed on the TIP list.

"The Commissioners take the concerns of county residents seriously, and going forward the county intends to assess these complaints and decide on the most effective way to relay them to the state," O'Malley said when asked about the 611 requast and petition.

"Only one or two projects may be submitted for consideration per region, and of the 70+ proposals the (Bucks County) Planning Commission has received, none are for work on this section of road."

Bucks County Transportation Planner Richard Brahler said that the pandemic has affected PennDOT's road construction plans as there have been fewer drivers paying tolls into the highway system since more people are working from home. And he said the popularity of electric vehicles also is affecting PennDOT in that the owners of these vehicles aren't paying taxes on gas fuel.

"It's a multi-layered complex issue," Brahler said.

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Route 611 in Upper Bucks County needs fix, residents say
Mexico still has 'differences' with U.S. on air safety rating, president says

By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said on Thursday it has upgraded Mexico's air safety rating, a move that will allow Mexican carriers to expand U.S. routes and add new service.

Reuters reported the planned announcement earlier Thursday.

Mexico was downgraded by the U.S. regulator in May 2021 after the agency found the country did not meet safety standards. The downgrade was a major blow to Mexico carriers, as U.S. airlines were able to scoop up market share.

Mexico overhauled its civil aviation law, but faced several hurdles and spent years in recovering the Category 1 rating.

The return of Mexico to the highest aviation safety rating followed "more than two years of close work between the countries' civil aviation authorities," the FAA said in a statement.

Airlines like Aeromexico and Volaris can now add new U.S. routes and potentially carry out marketing agreements with U.S. carriers. The upgrade also means U.S. airlines can resume marketing and selling tickets with their names and designator codes on Mexican-operated flights.

Mexico's Transport Minister Jorge Nuno said he received a letter from the U.S. embassy confirming the upgrade.

Local airlines could add some 50 Mexico-U.S. routes that would be active this winter following the change, he said in a radio interview.

Mexico remains the top international destination for U.S. airline passengers. Through July, 23.4 million passengers were on U.S.-Mexico flights, significantly more than the 17.4 million between the U.S. and Canada, the second biggest destination.

Mexican airline Aeromexico said the change will boost connectivity and allow a better use of its fleet.

Executives said in March it had received 50 aircraft since the COVID-19 pandemic begun, which had been unable to fly to the U.S. amid the rating downgrade.

The FAA provided expertise and resources to "resolve the safety issues that led to the downgrade."

In a June audit, the FAA raised concerns about Mexico's process for post-accident investigations and for carrying out medical exams for sector employees, meeting minutes obtained by Reuters showed.

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Additional reporting by Valentine Hilaire and Kylie Madry in Mexico City; Editing by Aurora Ellis, Richard Chang and Marguerita Choy)
The U.S. Treasury Department announced on Sept. 14 that it had imposed about 100 additional sanctions on Russia's elites and industrial base, financial institutions, and technology suppliers.

"With today's sanctions, the United States is continuing our relentless work to target Russia's military supply chains and deprive Putin of the equipment, technology, and services he needs to wage his barbaric war on Ukraine," said Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen .

"We have also made clear that those individuals and entities who profit from invasion and their proximity to the Kremlin will be held accountable, and today's actions show our global reach in imposing severe costs on Putin's oligarchs."

The U.S. Treasury introduced restrictions against Russian oligarch Andrei Bokarev, the head of major Russian rolling stock manufacturer Transmash, Bokarev's business partner Iskandar Makhmudov, who owns several Russia-based metals and mining companies, and their family members.

Read also: Bloomberg: Russian elite pull $50 billion from unfriendly European countries

Bokarev has personal ties to Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and other senior Kremlin officials, while both he and Makhmudov are linked to Russian organized crime, according to the report.

Among the sanctioned Russian elite members are also Russian Deputy Defense Minister Aleksei Krivoruchko and Mkrtich Okroyan, the chief designer and a board member of two Russian aerospace companies.

The sanctioned companies include a Finland-based network delivering foreign electronics to Russia-based end-users, Turkish entities exporting dual-use goods to Russia, leading Russian manufacturing, construction, and electronics firms, as well as banks and investment companies.

The U.S. State Department also imposed further sanctions on Sept. 14, targeting over 70 individuals and entities involved in Russia's energy production, arms repair and maintenance, and technology procurement.

Read also: ISW: Putin fears North Korea deal will threaten sanctions evasion schemes

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The Department of Justices antitrust case against Google is finally underway, and its results could reshape how consumers access the internet. In particular, the D.C. District Court judges verdict may particularly affect how users search the web on a daily basis.

To understand whats at stake in what may be the biggest tech monopoly trial since the DOJ went after Microsoft over two decades ago, its important to focus specifically on what prosecutors are alleging. During Tuesdays opening remarks , DOJ lead lawyer Kenneth Dintzer argued the tech giant violated anti-monopoly law through multiple, years long exclusive agreements with browser and phone makers. Via contracts with companies such as Apple, Googles search engine became the default for programs like Safari browser, while similar contracts with phone makers ensured products came preinstalled with various Google apps. In doing so, the DOJ argues Google left little-to-no market room for rival search engine makers, aka created an illegal monopoly.

Googles legal teams defense is that, ostensibly, its a testament to the companys popularity that businesses and consumers utilize products like Chrome more than any other option to peruse the web. Additionally, everyone is still free to use alternatives if they want.

[Related: DOJ accuses Google of buying its position as a default search engine .]

As The Verge reports, Dintzer at one point went so far as to allege Google has illegally maintained its monopoly since around 2010implying the monopoly in question existed well before that date. When pressed by the judge, Dintzer also estimated that as much as 50 percent of all Google searches originate via one of the companys paid-for defaults.

The big question, of course, is what happens if federal judge Amit Mehta sides with the DOJ. If Mehta rules against Google, the government could set a new precedent on how it approaches the most powerful tech businesses regarding antitrust and industry monopoly violations. Specifically for Google, however, this could entail new restrictions on its business practices, and potentially break up certain parts of its overall empire. This would hypothetically clear the way for new companies innovative products that would otherwise face difficulty attempting to gain any kind of foothold in a digital ecosystem ostensibly overseen and guided by Google. A loss for Google would also set a precedent for the DOJ to pursue similar cases against companies like Meta and Amazon.

If the court dismisses the DOJs claims, however, Google leaders could feel emboldened to reaffirm their place atop the industry. But as NBC News notes, such a loss could be spun into evidence for Congress to pursue modernized antitrust laws aimed squarely at tech giants.
(Bloomberg) -- The US and Bahrain have upgraded their defense relationship under a new security and economic deal that could become a template for Washingtons commitments to other Middle East allies including Saudi Arabia.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The agreement, known as the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement, or C-SIPA, aims to promote cooperation between the US and Bahrain across areas including defense, security, technology and trade.

The deal is a significant boost for Bahrain at a time when other countries in the oil-exporting Persian Gulf, including regional heavyweights Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, are seeking more formal security guarantees from the US.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Bahrains Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa signed the pact in Washington Wednesday after nearly a year of talks.

Were looking forward to using this agreement as a framework for additional countries that may wish to join us in strengthening regional stability, economic cooperation, and technological innovation, Blinken said at the signing ceremony for the deal.

A tiny island connected by bridge to its much bigger neighbor Saudi Arabia, Bahrain already hosts the US Navys Fifth Fleet, which is essentially responsible for the Middle East, and is classified by the US as a major non-NATO ally.

No NATO

The pact upgrades the US security commitment to Bahrain, but stops short of a NATO-style Article 5 defense guarantee that would require it to respond to an attack on its ally as an attack on itself.

Instead, the pact aims to deter threats, according to a senior administration official. In the event of an attack against Bahrain the US is committing to immediately consult with its ally and discuss ways to respond, the official said.

The agreement, which does not require Congressional approval, includes provisions that would allow other Middle East nations to join in due course, the official said.

The US and Bahrain agreed to work together to help deter and confront any external aggression against the territorial integrity of either country, according to the text of the agreement.

The deal comes as the Biden administration works with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on a potential framework that would see Saudi Arabia normalize relations with Israel in exchange for firm security guarantees from the US.

Read more: A Saudi-Israeli Peace Deal? Who Wants What and Why: QuickTake

Saudi Next?

Normalization with Saudi Arabia would be a significant coup for Israel. While its signed historic diplomatic deals with the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan since 2020, Saudi Arabia is the biggest economy in the Middle East, with the government investing trillions of dollars to diversify from oil. Its also the guardian of Islams two holiest sites at Mecca and Medina, giving its stance weight in the broader Islamic world.

Biden administration officials have been shuttling back and forth to Riyadh for months, hoping to conclude a deal ahead of next years presidential elections, but have also signaled that clearing the substantial hurdles will not be easy.

Chinas Influence

Prince Mohammed has increasingly looked to develop security and economic partnerships beyond his countrys traditional reliance on the US. Saudi Arabia has turned to China to broker a rapprochement with regional rival Iran that has helped to reduce tensions in the oil-exporting region.

Concern over Chinas rising influence in the Middle East has helped spur US efforts to keep its historic allies onside. Plans for a trade corridor between India and Europe via the Middle East, unveiled at the Group of 20 summit last week, are part of that broader effort to create alternatives to China.

Privately, the Saudis have asked for firm defense guarantees from the US, access to top-notch American weaponry and for the White House to allow them to enrich uranium domestically as part of a plan to build nuclear power plants.

Saudi officials have also expressed frustration over Israels deteriorating ties with the Palestinians. Riyadh has publicly said that normalization with Israel would not come without a resolution for the Palestinians.

Bahrain normalized relations with Israel in 2020 with the signing of the Abraham Accords. That agreement was considered part of US efforts to create a bulwark against Iran, with which Bahrain has often had a tense relationship, accusing it in the past of trying to foment unrest.

This latest security pact is the next step in terms of expanding the US-Bahrain relationship and creating a new security architecture for the Middle East, said a Bahraini official.

Under C-SIPA, the US and Bahrain will also explore the development of so-called Small Modular Reactors, mini nuclear power plants that could be used by Bahrain as part of its transition to cleaner forms of energy.

(Updates with quote in fifth paragraph)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  The chairman of the House Appropriations committee disclosed that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) sent a letter to the panel, saying that the Office of the President (OP) did not bypass Congressional power when it transferred 125 million to the Office of the Vice President (OVP).

While it is understandable that, at the outset, the release of funds to the OVP may be perceived as a transfer, the same was not technically so, for such release was funded from Contingent Fund under the FY (fiscal year) 2022 GAA (General Appropriations Act) and not from the budget of the OP, DBM Sec. Amenah Pangandaman wrote in her letter, as shared by Appropriations panel chair Ako-Bicol Rep. Elizaldy Co on Thursday.

The Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) earlier confirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved the release of 221.42 million to the OVP in 2022.

It said 125 million of the transfer was for confidential funds, but only indicated that it would be used for the OVPs newly created satellite offices.

According to Co's statement, Pangandaman explained that the release came from the 7 billion contingent fund to support the OVPs Good Governance Engagements and Social Services Projects."

She further clarified that the release of funds was not an augmentation or transfer of funds from the OP, citing the 2014 Supreme Court Araullo vs. Aquino ruling penned by former Justice and now Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin which declared that such an act would be unconstitutional.

The 2014 ruling declared that the act of withdrawing unobligated allotments from implementing agencies, declaring the funds as savings, and then transferring these to offices outside the Executive Department to fund projects not listed in the years budget was a bypass of Congressional power.

Furthermore, Pangandaman in her letter explained that the release of a contingent fund was not limited to a particular government agency and the only prohibition of its use was for the purchase of motor vehicles.

She added that the contingent fund is intended for expenditures not anticipated during the preparation of the budget.

The Makabayan bloc scrutinized the transfer, describing it as illegal and unconstitutional.

Last July, the Commission on Audit likewise flagged the OVPs establishment of satellite offices  the reason why the funds were transferred in the first place as per Bersamin  and noted that the office spent 125 million in confidential funds in 2022.

READ: COA flags OVP over immediate establishment of satellite offices

CNN Philippines has requested a copy of the DBMs letter to the House Committee on Appropriations.
By Francois Murphy

VIENNA (Reuters) - The U.S. and three European allies have threatened Iran with another resolution at the U.N. nuclear watchdog's board demanding action on issues such as explaining uranium traces found at undeclared sites, but left open whether or when they might follow through.

The warning delivered by Britain, France and Germany - the so-called E3 - and the U.S. to a quarterly International Atomic Energy Agency Board of Governors meeting published on Thursday comes as the West's standoff with Iran has been complicated by secret U.S.-Iran talks.

A November resolution ordered Tehran to cooperate urgently with the IAEA's investigation into the presence of uranium particles at three undeclared sites, since narrowed down to two.

Western powers have recently condemned Iran for stonewalling the IAEA on that and other issues like the re-installation surveillance cameras removed last year, and for enriching uranium to up to 60% purity, close to weapons grade. But in parallel diplomats say the United States has held secret "de-escalation" talks with Iran, potentially muddying the waters.

Those de-escalation talks, which Washington does not acknowledge, cover issues such as Iran's recent slowdown of enrichment to 60% purity, frozen Iranian funds abroad, and a prisoner swap, diplomats say.

"If Iran fails to implement the essential and urgent actions contained in the November 2022 Resolution and the 4th March Joint Statement in full, the Board will have to be prepared to take further action in support of the (IAEA) Secretariat to hold Iran accountable in the future, including the possibility of a resolution," the four Western powers said in a statement to the 35-nation IAEA board.

Iran tends to bristle at resolutions against it and respond by expanding or accelerating its nuclear activities. Iran says its nuclear programme is strictly for peaceful uses. Western powers say there is no credible civilian explanation for it.

The joint statement addressed the re-installation of monitoring equipment such as cameras but only a fraction of the cameras the IAEA wants to put in place have been set up.

Rather than seek another binding resolution against Tehran for the lack of progress on these issues at this week's IAEA board meeting, however, the Western powers issued a non-binding joint statement with 59 other countries calling on Iran to "act immediately" on issues including explaining the uranium traces.

A total of 22 countries of the 35 on the board backed the statement, fewer than the 26 that supported the resolution in November.

(Reporting by Francois Murphy, Editing by William Maclean)
The United States imposes new sanctions on Russian individuals and legal entities

The United States has expanded sanctions against Russia, targeting individuals and industrial companies that benefit from, or support Moscows war against Ukraine, the U.S. Treasury Department announced on Sept. 14.

Read also: Erdogan lobbies G20 to compromise on Russian sanctions in bid to revive Ukraine grain corridor

More than 150 companies and individuals are included in the list.

Notably, the sanction list includes Russian oligarch Andrei Bokarev and his wife, as well as Transmashholding machinery manufacturing company, once directed by Bokarev. The press release adds that Bokarev is linked with Russia's Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, other high-ranking Kremlin officials, and organized crime.

Bokarev's business partner, Iskandar Makhmudov, and his son also fell under the sanctions. Makhmudov is the founder of U.S.-registered Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company and owns several Russian financial firms  also tied to organized crime.

With todays sanctions, the United States is continuing our relentless work to target Russias military supply chains and deprive Putin of the equipment, technology, and services he needs to wage his barbaric war on Ukraine, the message quotes Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen.

Read also:

Sanctions were also imposed on:

 Aero Engine Scientific and Technical Complex Soyuz, which produces engines for cruise missiles and military transport aircraft;

 Balashikhinskiy Liteyno Mekhanicheskiy Zavod, which manufactures and repairs aviation equipment;

 Gavrilov Yam Machine Building Plant Agat, which manufactures aircraft engines, including those for UAVs;

 Ulyanovsk Cartridge Works, an ammunition manufacturer;

 Finnish companies Siberica and Luminor, supplying electronics to Russian enterprises;

 Turkish firms Margiana (supplies components found in various weapon systems, including cruise missiles and Orlan-10 UAVs) and Demirci (which provides sensors and measuring instruments to Russia);

 AvtoVAZ automotive manufacturer;

 Kirovsky Zavod machinery and steel producer;

 Moskvich automotive manufacturer;

 State company Russian Highways, and others  a construction and engineering company involved in road infrastructure.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
FILE PHOTO: The shells of burned houses and buildings are left after wildfires in Lahaina

(Reuters) -The U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee on Thursday asked utility company Hawaiian Electric CEO Shelee Kimura to testify at a hearing investigating the causes of the wildfire that killed at least 115 people and razed the historic town of Lahaina.

The hearing will take place on Sept. 28 in Washington before the panel that started a probe last month into one of the deadliest wildfires in the United States in more than a century.

Along with Kimura, the committee also summoned officials of the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission and the Hawaii State Energy Office.

Last month, the panel sent letters to Hawaiian Electric as well as state utility officials, seeking information about the wildfires.

As we have done with all the inquiries regarding the events of August 8, we stand ready to share what we know about what happened on Maui," a company spokesperson said, adding that Kimura would testify.

Hawaiian Electric's shares rose about 1%.

(Reporting by Mrinalika Roy and Sourasis Bose in Bengaluru; Editing by Pooja Desai)
U.S. President Biden speaks about the airline industry at the White House in Washington, U.S.

By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on Thursday said it will question U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg at a Sept. 20 oversight hearing.

The committee said the hearing will cover the lack of a confirmed head of the Federal Aviation Administration, implementation of a 2021 $1 trillion infrastructure law, supply chain and energy issues as well as electric vehicle infrastructure policies.

The White House has nominated a former deputy FAA administrator, Michael Whitaker, to head the agency but no hearing has been scheduled. The FAA has been without a Senate-confirmed administrator since April 2022.

Congress is likely this month to pass a short-term extension of the FAA's authority to operate beyond Sept. 30. A bill that would raise the mandatory commercial pilot retirement age to 67 from 65 and make other aviation reforms has stalled due to disagreements on whether to revise pilot training rules.

Another House panel last week said it was investigating the Transportation Department's response to a series of aviation and rail safety issues.

Republicans on the House Oversight Committee in a letter to Buttigieg said the committee was investigating the department's response to near-miss aviation incidents and train derailments. USDOT declined to comment.

The letter cited unresolved safety recommendations made by the department's Office of Inspector General.

"These safety failures have eroded the public's confidence in air and rail safety and necessitates thorough investigation," the lawmakers wrote.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating seven near-miss runway events since January. Buttigieg in March said numerous aviation close calls were "deeply troubling and deserve our immediate attention."

The issue of rail safety has drawn renewed attention since the Feb. 3 derailment of a Norfolk Southern train in East Palestine, Ohio, that caught fire and released more than 1 million gallons of hazardous materials and pollutants.

The Senate Commerce Committee in May approved rail safety legislation tightening rules on trains carrying flammable substances. The measure has not been taken up by the House or full Senate.

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Chris Reese and Mark Porter)
(Bloomberg) -- The US and Iran are set to exchange prisoners as early as Monday under an agreement thats seen as a first step toward fresh talks to reimpose limits on the countrys nuclear program, according to people familiar with the matter.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The people, who asked not to be identified discussing private deliberations, said the exact date of the swap isnt yet set but its likely to be on Sept. 18, a day before world leaders convene in New York for the annual meeting of the United Nations General Assembly.

The deal, which also saw the US allow Iran to access $6 billion in funds that were frozen in South Korea, has already opened President Joe Biden up to criticism that hes encouraging more hostage taking and shouldnt be doing any sort of deal with the regime.

US Disputes Iran Leaders Claim of Free Access to Frozen Funds

As we have said from the outset, what is being pursued here is an arrangement wherein we secure the release of five wrongfully held Americans, National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said in a statement. This remains a sensitive and ongoing process. While this is a step in the process, no individuals have been or will be released into U.S. custody this week.

The Biden administration has rejected claims by Iran that there will be no restrictions on $6 billion in oil sales proceeds that will be freed up as part of a prisoner swap, insisting that Iran will be allowed to use the funds solely for humanitarian purposes.

As part of the pending deal to swap five Americans held by Iran with five Iranians in US custody, Secretary of State Antony Blinken notified Congress on Monday of a waiver that will assure German, Irish, Qatari, South Korean and Swiss banks that they can transfer the $6 billion from South Korea without fear of running afoul of US sanctions.

Trump Team Divided Over Iran Oil Waivers as Next Deadline Nears

Administration officials have also pushed back on the criticism of the deal. One person familiar with the matter said the $6 billion was revenue that Iran earned under the Trump administration, when the US granted waivers to countries including China, India, Japan and Turkey, among others  to keep buying Iranian oil without facing penalties.

The US hopes that the prisoner swap will clear the way to broader diplomacy aimed at imposing restrictions on Irans nuclear programs. The US acknowledges it wont be politically viable to restore the 2015 nuclear deal that set bounds on Tehrans uranium-enrichment and which President Donald Trump abandoned in 2018.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Migrants are collected by U.S. border patrol in California

Migrants are collected by U.S. border patrol in California

SAN DIEGO (Reuters) - U.S. Border Patrol agents opened the metal barrier on the U.S.-Mexico border near San Diego, California, on Thursday and processed migrants who had gathered there over the past week.

Hundreds of migrants from all over the world had been stuck between the two metal border barriers for days, in a scene reminiscent of the large numbers of migrants who gathered there in May. Aid workers on Tuesday brought water and food to feed people, including families with children.

On Thursday, agents took pictures of the migrants and their passports and then loaded them and their belongings into vans for processing at an undisclosed location.

Reuters images show a line of women from Georgia presenting identification to a border patrol officer.

The area between the two metal barriers appeared to be mostly cleared with a few remaining makeshift encampments and tents left empty.

In May, a COVID-19-era provision known as Title 42 that blocked most asylum seekers from legal entry to the United States expired, prompting hundreds to camp out between the same barriers hoping to cross the border.

(Reporting by Mike Blake and Jane Ross; Editing by Mary Milliken and Aurora Ellis)
U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso, presents the framework for her Climate Crisis Advisory Committee during a news conference Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2023, in Downtown El Paso.

WASHINGTON  U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso, led a group of lawmakers in introducing a bill Wednesday that would bar those convicted of violent misdemeanor hate crimes from obtaining guns.

The bill, dubbed the Disarm Hate Act, comes four years after a gunman shot and killed 23 people in an El Paso Walmart in Escobars district. The gunman later pleaded guilty to hate crimes, having posted racist screeds in white supremacist forums shortly before the attack. It remains the deadliest hate crime against Latinos in modern U.S. history.

The bill mirrors language used to close the boyfriend loophole in last years Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the first major gun safety legislation to be signed into law in decades. That bill enhanced a law that barred those convicted of domestic violence from obtaining guns to include dating relationships  previously the abuser was subject to the law if they are married to or live with or have a child with the victim.

More: Dog rescued near Rio Grande by congresswoman casts light on plight of pets near the border

The other lawmakers introducing the Disarm Hate Act have also had hate-motivated mass shootings in their states or districts, including the shootings at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, a predominantly Black neighborhood of Buffalo, a Black Lives Matter demonstration in Oregon and an Asian American-run spa in Atlanta.

Hate and bigotry, coupled with easy access to weapons of war, make for a terrifying and deadly combination, Escobar said in a statement. Too many communities - including my own - know the consequences all too well.

Former U.S. Rep. David Cicilline, D-Rhode Island, and Casey previously introduced a prior version of the bill in 2021 citing the shootings at the Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, and at the Pulse nightclub.

Other lawmakers who joined in introducing the current bill include Reps. Maxwell Frost of Florida, Earl Blumenauer of Oregon, Brian Higgins of New York, John Garamendi of California, Nikema Williams of Georgia, Summer Lee of Pennsylvania and Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania.

The bill does not currently have any Republican support, though Escobars office has reached out to Republican members who represent districts that have had hate-motivated mass shootings. Without any Republicans onboard, the bill faces steep odds, particularly as the Republican-controlled House remains bogged down with fights to keep the government funded and an impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden.

Republican leadership on the last major gun safety legislation was crucial to its success. U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, helped shepherd the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act to passage following the Robb Elementary shooting in Uvalde last year. The bill didnt include several of Democrats top gun safety priorities, including universal background checks and bans on semiautomatic weapons.

In addition to addressing the boyfriend loophole, that bill included more extensive background checks for gun buyers under 21, grants for states to improve red flag laws and crisis intervention and clarified who qualified as a licensed gun dealer.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Escobar introduces bill to bar hate crime offenders from buying guns
The U.S. is sending personnel to Kyiv to evaluate the use of American military aid, the U.S. Defense Department Inspector General's Office said in a report released on Sept. 13.

According to the report, a senior official from the Inspector General's Office is already working with U.S. and Ukrainian team members at the U.S. embassy in Kyiv on evaluation and oversight.

"Additional personnel will be posted shortly to facilitate our programmatic reviews and investigative work," the report said.

The Defense Department Inspector General's Office is an independent agency responsible for providing oversight on Pentagon programs and operations.

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us

An October 2022 inspector general's report obtained by CNN described challenges to the Defense Department's efforts to monitor security assistance and weapons transfers, including the "inability of [Defense Department] personnel to visit areas where equipment provided to Ukraine was being used or stored."

The announcement of the new monitoring team comes as the Biden administration is petitioning the U.S. legislature for $24 billion in additional security and humanitarian assistance for Ukraine.

Some representatives from the conservative U.S. Republican party have called for more oversight on Ukraine spending. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has likewise criticized the administration's support for Ukraine amid Russia's full-scale war.

Trump plans to seek re-election in the 2024 U.S. presidential race.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The Biden administration has notified Congress that it will withhold $85 million in aid to Egypt that had been conditioned on Cairos progress in its treatment of political prisoners, instead diverting that money to Taiwan and Lebanon, sources with knowledge of the matter told CNN.

The administration said it would redirect $55 million worth of that funding to Taiwan and $30 million to Lebanon, the sources said.

However, the administration will allow Cairo to access $235 million of the total of $320 million in foreign military financing that is conditioned on human rights issues, a senior State Department official said Thursday.

The US provides more than $1 billion in foreign military financing to Egypt and the vast majority of it is not conditional.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken determined that it is in the US national security interest to waive certain human rights related conditions and allow the $235 million to go to Egypt.

What Im describing today reflects our current assessment that Egypts cooperation merits the national security waiver for fiscal year 2022, the official said.

Our position on the very serious human rights situation in Egypt absolutely has not changed and were going to continue to raise those issues in Egypt consistently and at the most senior levels, they added.

The conditions around the $85 million  that Egypt is making clear and consistent progress in relieving political prisoners, providing detainees with due process and preventing harassment of American citizens  cannot be waived, the official explained.

The Secretary is determined that Egypt has not fulfilled his conditions and therefore we are reprogramming that 85 million, the official said.

The Wall Street Journal first reported on the redirection of the funds.

Last month, a group of 11 House Foreign Affairs Committee Democrats called on Secretary of State Antony Blinken to withhold all $320 million in conditional foreign military financing over concerns about Cairos human rights abuses.

We acknowledge the historic, deeply rooted bilateral U.S.  Egypt relationship, based in shared social, economic, and political ties, wrote the lawmakers, led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Rep. Gregory Meeks.

Nonetheless, we are strongly concerned by reports from both the State Department as well as numerous credible human rights and civil society organizations about the persistent and continued systemic violations of human rights in Egypt, the letter continued.

As we continue to stand for the prioritization of basic human rights in our foreign policy and call on the Administration to adhere to the spirit and letter of the law in ensuring progress in the U.S.Egypt relationship, we call on you to withhold the full $320 million of FY22 FMF until Egypts human rights record significantly improves, it concluded.

Meanwhile, the administration has been working to bolster Taiwans defense capabilities in preparation for a potential conflict with China, and in July announced a new weapons package for the self-governing island valued at up to $345 million.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Thursday said the killer of Kuwait-based overseas Filipino worker Jullebee Ranara has been convicted of murder.

Ranaras killer, the 17-year-old son of her Kuwaiti employer, was sentenced by a juvenile court to 15 years in prison for murder and one year of incarceration for driving without a license.

The lesser penalties were due to the accused being a minor," the DFA said. "He has 30 days to appeal the judgement to the Court of First Instance."

According to the DFA, Ranaras family has been informed of the conviction. It added that the Philippine government is appreciative of Kuwaiti authorities for its quick resolution of the case.

The 35-year-old OFW was killed in January this year. Her body was found burnt and mangled in the Kuwaiti desert on Jan. 21.

READ: DMW vows justice for slain OFW in Kuwait

Kuwaiti publication Arab Times reported that the OFW was raped, and autopsy showed that she was pregnant when she was murdered.

The Department of Migrant Workers revealed that Ranara told her mother that her employers cruel teenage son had been abusing her, before he murdered her. The agency prohibited her employer from hiring other Filipino workers.

Her body was returned to the Philippines on January 27. An autopsy was conducted a day later.

Ranaras murder sparked calls anew to halt the deployment of OFWs to Kuwait, a country where many Filipino workers have been brutally killed.

A deployment ban was imposed in April 2018 after domestic helper Joanna Daniela Demafelis was killed, and her body found stuffed in a freezer. It was lifted the same year after the two countries inked a protection agreement for OFWs in Kuwait.

The following year, Constancia Lago Dayag and Jeanelyn Villavende were killed by their Kuwaiti employers in May and December 2019, respectively. This prompted the implementation of a total deployment ban to the Gulf state in January 2020.

The ban was lifted a month later in February 2020 after murder charges were filed against VIllavendes employers.

When news of Ranaras death broke, the DMW said it was not considering a new deployment ban to the country but sought additional safeguards for OFWs.

Kuwait is host to over 240,000 Filipino workers.

OFW Partylist Rep. Marissa Magsino lauded the conviction but said an overarching issue still remains for the sector.

We need key reforms through stronger bilateral agreements that should include a standard contract, a system for rescuing workers in distress, and investigating worker abuses and deaths, the lawmaker said.

Huwag natin iiwan ang kaso ni Jullebee Ranara bilang numerong dumagdag sa istatistika ng mga inabusong OFWs bagkus ay maging hamon ito na paigtingin ang proteksyon ng ating gobyerno laban sa abuso at pananamantala sa ating mga OFWs, she added.

[Translation: Lets not allow Ranaras case to become another statistic among abused OFWs, but let it challenge the government to strengthen its protection of OFWs against abuse.]
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (ABC4)  Unified Police Department made an announcement on Wednesday, September 13, that its officers have arrested a serial rapist wanted out of Modesto, California.

According to a news release, UPD arrested Ivan Romo, 25, for aggravated rape with multiple victims, all who worked as prostitutes.

While the department claims that there are no active cases in Utah, it is concerned that there may be local victims who may not have reported a sexual assault because they are involved in prostitution.

UPD asks that any individuals who have been victims of sexual assault where Romo is the suspect call Detective Christensen directly at 385-468-9834  under UPD case 23-93693.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
Eversource serves as an energy supplier for many of the communities at high risk of impact from tropical system Lee -- and the utility mobilized tree crews and outside contractors to assist in storm recovery efforts.

But, with Lees track suddenly shifting to the east, it might turn out to be overkill.

Weve been watching the storm for over a week now, said Craig Hallstrom, Eversource President for Regional Electrical Operations. It wasnt really forecast to impact the coast. But a couple of days ago, it was coming more west and we were going to get more of an impact.

Hallstrom spoke to the press outside Eversources Boston headquarters. He seemed heartened by the latest forecasts, which now show Lee brushing the New England coast from 180 miles away.

Its still kind of a major storm, Hallstrom said. The forecast right now is for sustained winds in the 40s and gusts may top 50.

Those wind velocities are much more likely to be seen in coastal communities -- including the Cape, Plymouth and Marshfield.

Hallstrom does think botanical damage is likely -- especially because of recent heavy rains, which have helped destabilize trees.

We brought in about 200 tree crews, he said. Based on the foirecast, the peak of the storm for us is going to be sunrise Saturday to noon Saturday.

And then Lee will be history. But Hallstrom said Eversource is also keeping an eye on the next system, which would be named Nigel.

Braintree is one of a handful of communities at risk of damage from Lee that are served by a municipal power supplier.

The Braintree Electric Light Department has just 17,000 customers -- and in any kind of storm, that offers a key advantage, said Weijun Li, Engineering and Operations Manager.

In Braintree we are in a great position because the system is relatively compact, relatively small, said Li. We can get to any location in town in a relatively short time... in ten minutes.

But Li isnt expecting big problems from Lee. He said the utilitys main transmission line runs underground -- offering lots of protection from the elements. And above-ground wires and poles have been assiduously maintained over the years, he said.

We can say with a high level of confidence that the Braintree system is in great shape, Li said. We strongly believe were well prepared, just like other storms weve had to deal with in the past.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Veterans Affairs officials arent planning to restart deployment of its new electronic health records system until at least next summer, but lawmakers are warning even that may be too optimistic, given continued software problems.

Leaders from the House and Senate are negotiating legislation that would mandate stricter oversight plus performance benchmarks for the embattled $10-billion medical records project, which remains stalled due to reliability and useability issues.

Its simple: this project has to deliver results, or end, House Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost, R-Ill., lectured VA officials at congressional hearing on Thursday. It cannot be allowed to stumble along and spend money forever.

It was the second fractious hearing this week on the 10-year records overhaul project. VA leaders heard similar warnings Wednesday from House Appropriations Committee members who are frustrated that not a single site is using the new software successfully.

VA halts all new work on health records overhaul

VA program planners halted all deployments last April of the reportedly bug-ridden Millennium records system, which is administered by Oracle Cerner. The project was announced by President Donald Trump in 2017, but only five VA medical sites have installed it, and all report numerous problems with tracking patients care history.

VA administrators told Congress at the Wednesday hearing that they hope to deploy the system to new sites sometime in summer 2024 and expressed optimism that the records overhaul project can get back on track.

Dr. Neil Evans, acting program director for VAs records project, said they are working to simplify and streamline the system to better respond to staff and veteran needs.

Oracle Cerner Executive Vice President Mike Sicilia called the program difficulties thus far unacceptable and frankly embarrassing but also told lawmakers he is confident the past rollout errors can be corrected.

Witnesses at Thursdays hearing were more skeptical.

The majority of staff are still frustrated at the amount of time that things take to process or file, said Scott Kelter, director of the VA Medical Center in Walla Walla, Washington, one of the few sites using the Millennium records system. Right now, its still double or triple what it used to be.

Most lawmakers on the appropriations committee voiced reluctant support for moving ahead with the Oracle Center software.

We have spent too many billions of dollars for this to fail, said Rep. John Carter, R-Texas.

But several Republicans on the veterans committee predicted the projects demise.

Five years out and were still having to bring people in to basically rebuild the system, said Rep. Greg Murphy, R-N.C. Thats not what a new electronic medical record is supposed to be. Its absolutely inexcusable. There are other systems out there that are much better and could well translate to the needs of veterans and VA.

In lieu of clear congressional consensus on whether the project should be abandoned, both Bost and committee ranking member Rep. Mark Takano, D-Calif., said they are working with Senate counterparts to find ways for Congress to put new checks on the project before billions more in taxpayer funds are spent.

Takano said that a modern health records system is a necessity for VA, which is currently using the 45-year-old VistA system  the Veterans Health Information Systems and Technology Architecture  at most sites. But he also said that given the past problems with deployment, we need new legislative action to force some of the structural and accountability measures that are necessary to get this program on track.

Bost said that will include assurances that the few sites using the software already have been made whole before additional medical centers are added. Lawmakers did not offer any timeline for when legislation may be voted on in the House or Senate.

VA officials are requesting almost $2 billion in funding for the ongoing electronic health records project in fiscal 2024, but Congress has yet to finalize that budget request.
A view of boats and gondolas on a canal, in Venice, Italy, Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The Italian city of Venice has been struggling to manage an onslaught of tourists in the budget travel era. The stakes for the fragile lagoon city are high this week as a UNESCO committee decides whether to insert Venice on its list of endangered sites. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

VENICE, Italy (AP)  Venice on Thursday again escaped the tarnish of UNESCO's list of world heritage sites in danger, drawing a victory cheer from the mayor but scorn from environmentalists and scientists alarmed by the impact of mass tourism and climate change on the storied lagoon city.

At a meeting in Saudi Arabia, member states disregarded expert findings that Venice's outstanding universal value was under a growing and increasingly urgent threat. Instead, they praised the city's conservation efforts, in particular a last-minute pilot project approved two days ago that will make Venice the first city to charge entry.

Venice similarly avoided joining the list of sites in danger two years ago after the Rome government announced a ban on big cruise ships past St. Marks Square and through the Giudecca canal.

Mayor Luigi Brugnaro welcomed the decision as proof that Venice is not at risk, calling the experts' recommendations misleading.

Civic groups, however, continue to emphasize the threat to Venice from mass tourism, which they say is transforming the city into a mere destination, depriving it of lifeblood as a thriving center that would attract both residents and new businesses.

The much-ballyhooed pilot project, charging 5 euros ($5.30) to day-trippers on 30 high-traffic days next year, only reinforces a low-brow image of Venice, they said.

When you see how beautiful Venice is, what an incredible lifestyle the city can offer, when mass tourism isnt killing it, you realize that Venice is to some extent wasted on short-term visitors, said Jane Da Mosto, executive director of the NGO We Are Here Venice. Venice is a place where more people should be able to live and create more lives and families and jobs and exciting work opportunities.

Expressing disappointment in UNESCO's decision, Da Mosto said the language used by some of the delegates made me think they might be using material provided by Italian diplomatic channels."

I really hope UNESCO will do something courageous to restore our hope in the convention governing world heritage sites, she said.

The Union of Concerned Scientists said the decision signals an alarming trend of nations not being held accountable for protecting some of the most iconic and irreplaceable natural and historic sites around the globe. It noted that Venice is increasingly vulnerable to severe flooding and water damage.

The city's 6-billion-euro underwater barriers, cited by several member states as evidence of Venices commitment to preservation, have been employed since severe flooding in 2019 to protect the city from the most serious flooding. But the project has been riven by corruption, cost overruns and long delays, and is not yet fully complete  a lapse noted by the experts.

As the UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting loomed, housing activists in Venice this weekend announced that the number of tourist beds had officially surpassed the number of residents: 49,693 to 49,304.

That imbalance drains the city of services and clogs the citys tight alleyways and water buses with suitcase-laden tourists, pushing more Venetians to move to the mainland, a trend that dates back decades.

Too much tourism is just a threat for our city,'' said Remi Wacogne, an activist with the OCIO civic observatory on housing. All sorts of measures should be taken, starting with regulating short-term rentals, which are responsible for most of the increase in tourist beds."

Venice officials, however, have failed to limit short-term rentals, despite being the only city in Italy allowed to do so under a special statute.

The UNESCO World Heritage Committee recommended Venice for the list of sites in danger, citing the negative impact of mass tourism, damage to the lagoon by large ships and oil tankers entering via the Malamocco canal, and climate change leading to more frequent high tides, as well as uncoordinated development.

After the decision, the committee reiterated its concerns, and underlined that further progress still needs to be made for proper conservation of Venice and its lagoon.

Italy has until December 2024 to present a detailed plan, which will be discussed at the World Heritage Committee meeting in 2025.

UNESCO officials have emphasized that a downgrade is not meant to be punitive, but to alert the world community that more needs to be done to address issues plaguing a World Heritage site.

Venice's top budget official, Michele Zuin, was defiant heading into the vote, telling The Associated Press that Venice wanted to avoid the endangered list. But it is not as if we are slaves of UNESCO.
Formerly known as VimpelCom, VEON telecommunications multinational has finalized plans to sell its Russian assets by Oct. 13, the company said in a press release on Sept. 13.

Read also: Russians using prank mobile app to make real denunciations of their compatriots

VEON currently operates in Russia, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and Ukraine  where it owns Kyivstar, a major Ukrainian mobile operator.

I am pleased with the progress we have achieved in our exit from Russia despite the complexities of the transaction, the message quotes VEON CEO Kaan Terzioglu.

Our exit strategy is the optimal solution for all our stakeholders  our customers, employees, creditors and investors world-wide. I would like to thank our stakeholders for their patience and continued support.

The sale will be paid for by Russian investors transferring bonds to VEON, which will be held until redemption or annulment.

Read also: lifecell mobile carrier's equipment destroyed, looted by Russians in city of Kherson

The company has agreed the transfer of approximately 95% of these bonds to VEON Holdings with U.S. and other national regulators. The remaining bonds will be transferred to the holding after regulatory approval. Approval may be granted after the deal closes.

Read also: Vodafone Ukraine suspends account top-up though mobile app

The company expects that all necessary formalities will be settled by Oct. 13, the due date of VEON Holding's bonds.

In late June, Kyivstar President Oleksandr Komarov announced that VEON would exit the Russian market in a matter of months.

Read also: Estonia to allow confiscation of frozen Russian assets, Kyiv says

In June, VEON recorded a depreciation of its Russian business by $448 million, based on Q1 2022 results.

In May, VEON received permission from the U.S. Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to sell its Russian assets.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Jason Robert Dockery, 44, of Knoxville, was captured at 2:45 p.m. Thursday by the Union County Sheriffs Office, based in Maynardville, Tennessee. The sheriff's office reported his arrest on its FaceBook page. He is the man suspected of killing a woman in the Heiskell community of Anderson County on Tuesday. A days-long manhunt seeking Dougherty had been underway in both Tennessee and Lee County, Virginia.

Anderson County Sheriff Barker said more information will be released into the crime as it becomes available.

"The team of law enforcement professionals involved in the case is determined to uncover all relevant details and ensure justice is served, Sheriff Barker stated on the Anderson County Sheriff's Office FaceBook page.

Dockery is also wanted for violation of probation from Sevier County and felony evading, reckless endangerment, and child abuse neglect

Assisting in the search for Dockery in Union County was the Maynardville Police Department, U.S. Marshal Service and Knox County Sheriffs Office, according to the Union County Sheriff's Office post.

ORIGINAL STORY BELOW

A woman killed Tuesday in the Heiskell community of Anderson County, Tennessee, has been identified and law enforcement in Lee County, Virginia, are saying the suspect is no longer believed to be in that community following a more than day-long manhunt.

The Anderson County Sheriff's Office has identified the woman, who was reportedly shot, as Shystie Ranea Mayberry. No other information was released.

This photo was sent by an Anderson County Sheriff's Office spokesperson of the scene of a death in Heiskell.

At about 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, the Sheriff's Office/Anderson County 911 Communications Center received a call from someone who said a man had shot a woman while stopped on the side of the road in the 200 block of Moores Gap Road in the Heiskell community, according to a statement from the sheriff's office. Deputies found the woman when they arrived.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the victim and we are grateful for the assistance of so many other agencies," Anderson County Sheriff Russell Barker stated.

Identifying and searching for the suspect

ACSO detectives began searching for 44-year-old Jason Robert Dockery and notified other law enforcement agencies to be on the lookout.

Dockery's red, four-door 2015 Chevrolet Sonic was seen in Claiborne County, Tennessee, and he was pursued by police there into Lee County, Virginia, where Dockery abandoned the car in the Ewing community and escaped into the woods, according to information released in a statement from Lee County Sheriff Gary Parsons.

The search for Dockery continued into Wednesday with officials closing the county's public schools and the sheriff advising residents to lock their doors and stay inside because the man was considered "armed and extremely dangerous."

But at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, the sheriff gave the following update in a news release: "We have confirmed that the suspect in the manhunt has left Lee County, Virginia, but because of the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation no further information can be released at this time."

Multiple law enforcement agencies in Tennessee and Virginia were involved in the search. The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to Dockery being caught. In addition to the killing of Mayberry, Dockery is wanted on violations of probation for aggravated assault in Tennessee.

In Anderson County, that sheriff's office said an autopsy on Mayberry is being performed at the Knoxville Regional Forensic Center. Assisting at the crime scene Tuesday and the continuing investigation is the 7th Judicial District Crime Force, the Clinton Police Department, and Anderson County District Attorney General Dave Clark.

The Oak Ridger's News Editor Donna Smith covers Oak Ridge area news. Email her at dsmith@oakridger.com and follow her on Twitter@ridgernewsed.

Support The Oak Ridger by subscribing. Offers available at https://subscribe.oakridger.com/offers.

This article originally appeared on Oakridger: Victim identified in Anderson County shooting as manhunt continues
(Bloomberg) -- Polands ruling party came under mounting scrutiny over reports that government officials exploited a fast-track visa process for migrants for personal gain, as opposition leader Donald Tusk opened a new line of attack weeks ahead of a tight election.

Most Read from Bloomberg

A government spokesman said the dismissal a month ago of Deputy Foreign Minister Piotr Wawrzyk was connected to media reports that Polish embassy officials were being asked to expedite visas, a process that involves a $5,000 fee. Its not clear who profited from the transactions.

Each person who broke the law will be punished, spokesman Piotr Muller told reporters in Warsaw on Thursday, adding that irregularities involved several dozen or several hundred visas and the matter is being investigated. Politically, we saw a dismissal of the deputy minister in charge of this area.

The revelations came to light in the midst of a tumultuous election campaign ahead of the Oct. 15 contest, with the ruling Law & Justice party holding a steady lead over the opposition but struggling to secure a majority. Accusations of profiting off migrant visas triggered accusations of hypocrisy as Law & Justice has rallied against non-European migrants.

Tusk, the former European Council president who leads the opposition Civic Platform, pounced. The government had effectively facilitated human trafficking by granting entry to those who paid a fee while railing against migration elsewhere, he said.

The ruling party wanted from the very beginning to use migration as the key issue of its propaganda, spark racist and xenophobic emotions, Tusk said at a press conference. At the same time under the cover of a seemingly anti-immigrant stance, it was bringing the record number of people to the country.

Wawrzyk, a deputy minister in charge of visa issuance and consular affairs, was dismissed last month by Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki over a lack of satisfactory cooperation as part of the investigation into the visa issuance process. Seven people have so far been charged.

Wawrzyk, who didnt respond to requests for comment, hasnt been charged with any wrongdoing.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
eight men in dark suits stand in front of a rocket inside a spaceport facility.

Russian President Vladimir Putin met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at a spaceport on Wednesday (Sept. 13), likely discussing a range of possibilities for space-related cooperation.

The leaders of the internationally isolated countries met for a five-hour summit at Russia's Vostochny Cosmodrome , in the far east of the country.

The talks between the pair attracted global attention amid Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine and the possibility of deepened military cooperation between the two countries  particularly Moscow seeking to obtain artillery and ammunition to support its war effort.

Related: Russia's invasion of Ukraine as seen in satellite photos

This pool image distributed by Sputnik agency shows Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (L) shaking hands during their meeting at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Amur region on September 13, 2023, ahead of planned talks that could lead to a weapons deal.

The meeting and its setting highlighted that space exchanges were to be discussed between Russia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). The leaders observed a new Soyuz-2 rocket launch facility from a viewing area during the visit, according to press reports.

The BBC noted that Putin told reporters that "the leader of the DPRK shows great interest in rocket engineering."

Rockets for launching satellites are similar in many ways to intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) that can launch nuclear payloads. While launch vehicles insert satellites into particular orbits, ICBMs remain suborbital and release payloads that then fall to Earth on ballistic trajectories. North Korea  which, notably, has developed nuclear weapons and is looking to improve its delivery systems  is likely interested in both.

North Korea has failed with two attempts to launch spy satellites this year, and its last remaining  and already defunct  satellite is expected to reenter Earth's atmosphere within days.

As well as improving its rocket technology, the reclusive state may also be seeking assistance for its satellite programs.

The AP reported that Thae Song, chairman of North Korea's space science and technology committee, was among the delegation in Russia, suggesting that possible Russian assistance for space systems such as spy satellites may have been discussed.

Imagery from space can provide information on adversaries' military-related activities and movements and inform planning and national defense strategies.

The summit also generated unconfirmed speculation that the pair could collaborate to send North Korean astronauts to space.

Russian social media sources discuss a possibility of a joint Russo-North-Korean orbital crew mission, assuming it would avoid the #ISS. I guess a 2-3-day autonomous mission is theoretically feasible, with some safety margins.September 13, 2023

See more

RELATED STORIES:

 Russian invasion of Ukraine: How it's affecting Europe's space plans

 North Korea launches ICBM on record-breaking 74-minute flight

 North Korea's rocket and missile program (photos)

Reporter and author Anatoly Zak, who runs RussianSpaceWeb.com, tweeted that a short-duration orbital joint crewed mission on a Russian Soyuz spacecraft was one speculative possibility. A more antagonistic approach would see Russia carry North Korean astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS). Such a proposal would be met by strong opposition by other ISS partners, particularly the United States.

Russia has lost a number of space cooperation partners and customers following its decision to invade Ukraine in February 2022. The country is currently training an astronaut from Belarus, another largely isolated, authoritarian nation, to travel to the ISS in March 2023.
The Washington state Department of Revenues Unclaimed Property Program has returned an all-time high of $138.9 million in unclaimed property to thousands of Washingtonians this past year, the department announced in a news release.

The program is a free public service administered by the Department of Revenue. Each year, banks and other businesses turn over unclaimed money, stocks, and securities to the program. Revenue holds the property until it is claimed by the rightful owner or heir.

The amount returned in fiscal year 2023 far exceeded the $89.4 million returned in 2022, the department reported.

More money also is coming in to the program. Washington state law requires businesses and other organizations to review their records each year to determine whether they hold any funds, securities, or other property that has remained unclaimed for the required abandonment period and turn it over.

Holders reported a record $322 million in unclaimed property, up more than $75 million from $246.5 million the prior year.

This spring, Revenue also launched the new Money Match program, which automatically returns unclaimed property to Washingtonians after verifying ownership and without requiring an owner to file a claim or submit documentation. Since the new program launched, it has issued 9,104 checks for a total of $1.2 million, according to the news release.

Returning money to rightful owners is the best job in state government, Washingtons Unclaimed Property Administrator Patti Wilson said in the news release. It is especially great when we return money to individuals who did not know they had money coming to them.

Check claimyourcash.org to see if you have money waiting to be claimed.
China, Vietnam pledge to strengthen law enforcement cooperation

Xinhua) 08:53, September 14, 2023

BEIJING, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- The ministers of public security of China and Vietnam have agreed to enhance law enforcement cooperation and signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Wednesday.

The two sides made the pledge at the eighth China-Vietnam public security ministerial meeting on cooperation against crime in Beijing.

Wang Xiaohong, a member of the Secretariat of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Minister of Public Security of China, co-chaired the meeting with To Lam, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and Vietnamese Minister of Public Security.

Wang pointed out that the general secretaries of the two parties jointly drew a grand blueprint for the China-Vietnam comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership in the new era and provided important political guidelines for bilateral cooperation in various fields.

Since the seventh meeting, the public security ministries of China and Vietnam have achieved fruitful outcomes in maintaining political security, tracing fugitives and recovering assets, combating human trafficking and other areas, and completing various cooperation tasks, he said.

Wang stressed that China is ready to work with Vietnam to implement the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two parties and deepen cooperation in political security and cybersecurity. They will also strengthen practical cooperation in combating crimes, strengthen coordination and cooperation under multilateral frameworks, and enhance law enforcement capacity building to make a new and greater contribution to the security and stability of the two countries and the region at large.

For his part, To Lam said Vietnam is willing to strengthen high-level exchanges in law enforcement between the two countries, deepen law enforcement cooperation in various fields, and create a safe and stable social environment for the development of their respective countries.

Wang and To Lam jointly signed a MOU on cooperation between China and Vietnam in combating cross-border gambling.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  Manila and Washington are looking into the possibility of creating new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites in the Philippines on top of nine already in the country, a US military official said Thursday.

Gen. [Romeo] Brawner and I may make recommendations to our senior leaders for the consideration of additional sites but theres still work to do there before we get to our answer, U.S. Admiral John Aquilino said in a press conference with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief.

To other sites, Im gonna leave that to my partner," Aquilino added. "We are in discussions, but everyone has a boss and we both have bosses. So well have those conversations I think in private and give our bosses some decision space on how theyd like to go forward.

Presently, there are nine EDCA sites in the Philippines where US troops can be stationed indefinitely on a rotational basis.

Four were established early this year: Naval Base Camilo Osias in Santa Ana town, Cagayan; the Lal-lo Airport in Lal-lo town, Cagayan; Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu town, Isabela; and Balabac Island in Palawan.

READ: Palace unveils 4 new EDCA sites

The five existing ones are the 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.

Aquilino also said the US is looking into investing more funds into the sites development for joint use.

Weve gone from 32 [projects], weve added 63 others and the United States has identified investments of almost $110 million to those sites to build capability, capacity for the AFP to use every day and for the United States to fall in on when invited, Aquilino said.

Meanwhile, Brawner said the Philippine government is likewise pouring money into the EDCA sites.

The AFP chief, however, clarified that joint operations with the US and the possible creation of new sites had nothing to do with the other countries in the Indo-Pacific region.

This is despite Chinas continued incursions and harassment of Filipino civilian and government vessels in the Philippines exclusive economic zone.

Before the press conference of the two military leaders, the AFP on Thursday morning revealed a concerning resurgence in the West Philippine Sea where a swarm of 30 Chinese fishing vessels was spotted.

READ: Concerning resurgence: AFP reports more Chinese fishing vessels swarming West PH Sea

The establishment of four new EDCA sites earlier this year enraged Beijing. It accused Washington of endangering peace in the Indo-Pacific region and said the western superpower would use the EDCA sites to interfere with Chinas operations in the Taiwan strait.
Just a few months ago, ex-convicts recruited by the notorious Wagner Group were boasting about plans to take the fight to Europe. Now, it turns out, theyre working as taxi drivers.

One enterprising young ex-con has even started his own taxi business using the Wagner brand in Russias Novosibirsk region. Valery Bogdanov, with five convictions for robbery and theft under his belt, returned from the battlefield in Ukraine over the summer and says he is now getting glowing reviews from clients of his taxi business.

I saw on the internet that people in the city were complaining about taxis. There are either not enough cars, or you order and then no one comes, or they refuse to drive you far. With us, everything is different, people are pleased that the car always arrives without problems. Were slowly developing, and we will expand, Bogdanov told local outlet VN.ru.

His business card for Wagner Taxi features the menacing skull insignia the mercenary group is known for, and the taxi fleet will reportedly be fitted out with Wagner paraphernalia. He says he already has many happy customers.

According to the independent outlet Mozhem Obyasnit, Bogdanov is not the only former Wagner mercenary to find himself forced to carve out a new career path. After the fiery death of Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin last month, a representative for the group sent out an audio message telling fighters to find a new line of work because the powers that be would no longer let them join the war against Ukraine due to well-known circumstances.

New Video Shows Prigozhin Dismiss Liquidation Talk Days Before Crash

Now, families of the former fighters are reportedly complaining in private chat groups that theyve been turned away from more respectable positions at defense enterprises and factoriesand urged instead to work as taxi drivers or couriers for fast food restaurants.

My son submitted documents to work at one of the citys factories. Everyone signed off on [his employment] except for security. They rejected him, one woman wrote, according to screenshots published by Mozhem Obyasnit from a Telegram group for pardoned Wagner fighters.

Others complained that the pardons given to ex-convicts-turned-Wagner mercenaries were useless, as their records still clearly display all their crimes for potential employers.

Its insulting that they promised them a clean slate and never fulfilled that promise! And theres no need to write for the hundredth time that its not possible to remove convictions from the database and the guys just dont understand this. They were promised and they believed it! In fact, they were tricked, another mother of a Wagner fighter was quoted as saying. She went on to vent about the irony of how easy it was for authorities to pull the guys out of prison for the war, while it is now impossible to wipe their records.

Many of them believed it, counted on returning home in six months, but most of them returned only in zinc coffins, another family member responded.

Tatyana, the wife of a former Wagner fighter in the Tyumen region, told Mozhem Obyasnit her husband was forced into unofficial work after being rejected elsewhere: He tried to get a job at the factory, but security rejected him. Now hes working as a taxi driver, without registration, she said.

An employment agency looking for workers for a factory that makes engines for military planes told the outlet they couldnt hire ex-cons, even if they were pardoned, and another agency working to fill positions at Sheremetyevo Airport said the FSB always turns away candidates with criminal records.

But theres still hope for the out-of-work war criminals. An employment agency filling spots at Burger King says they wouldnt be allowed to work as assistant chef for the fast-food chain but they might take them as couriers.

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.
This article is part of U.S. Democracy Day, a nationwide collaborative on Sept. 15, the International Day of Democracy, in which news organizations cover how democracy works and the threats it faces. To learn more, visit usdemocracyday.org.

One of the problems with our democracy is this: Theres too much to it.

Our cherished system faces more imminent threats, and no democracy will crumble because there are too many elections. But the breadth of what we ask voters to decide and the frequency with which we expect them to do it distorts results, allows vested interests to dominate and invites citizens to tune out.

We elect too many offices, including some that require specialized knowledge and experience. We vote on too many questions directly, asking voters to evaluate complicated financial proposals, such as bonds, and arcane legal questions.

And we vote too often. Between primaries, local elections and runoffs, a citizen might be asked to go to the polls six times in certain years. That doesnt even include the occasional special election.

The result, and the reason it poses a threat, is incredibly low voter turnout. Beyond presidential elections and midterms, when a lot of state offices are on the line, a tiny number of voters participate in so many local elections. The sad irony is, those are the offices  city council, school boards  closest to them that can affect their lives the most.

Democracy Day is Sept. 15.

In the race for Fort Worth mayor in May, a little over 42,000 people cast ballots, in a city rapidly approaching 1 million residents. It was one of dozens of local governments with important races on the ballot, but overall county turnout clocked in at a little under 9% of eligible voters.

Some might chalk that up to a lack of competitive marquee races or even voters signaling their pleasure with the status quo. Perhaps, but consider Chicago. It had a competitive runoff at a time of rising crime and economic concern and still drew just 40% turnout.

OFFICES ON STATE, LOCAL BALLOT

More than half the states vote on supreme court judges. We elect officials to oversee water supply. Voters choose officials to regulate industries such as agriculture and insurance and, in many cases, their main effect is to add a layer over the bureaucrats who really do the work.

We have a republican government, but we nonetheless vote directly on policy. The Texas Constitution is an absolute mess. In November, the entire state must decide whether one of its 254 counties can eliminate the office of treasurer, a position that is  you guessed it  elected.

Were electing state and local officials every two or four years; surely they can handle these decisions and, if necessary, be held accountable later.

Runoffs are a particular problem. One of the Fort Worth school districts board races went to a second round, and just 2,664 people participated. That kind of turnout for Friday Night Lights would prompt a crisis in this state. For a local election, its the standard.

Such tiny numbers make it easier for campaigns and vested interests to control an outcome. A fancy mailer financed by, say, the political arm of a construction company can move just enough votes to pass bond proposals that finance a school building boom.

Having so many elections to sort through creates an information barrier. Normal people are not going to dive into the records and policy positions of dozens of candidates at least twice a year. Even faithful voters rely on factors such as name identification and party affiliation.

In our polarized era, that has candidates railing about issues on which the offices they seek have no effect. We get lots of talk about abortion and immigration, but not enough about the state budget or improving literacy rates in schools.

SOLUTIONS TO ELECTION FATIGUE, LOW TURNOUT

Solutions are hard to come by. In many states, constitutional amendments would be required to make elected offices into appointed ones  and those amendments would, of course, trigger another low-turnout election. The portion of the electorate that voted devoutly would understandably be reluctant to give itself less control.

One promising idea is ranked-choice voting, which eliminates runoffs by having voters express their preferences for second, third and even fourth-place candidates. Votes are reallocated based on those choices, until a winner achieves an outright majority.

The political class likes runoffs  consultants make more money, and the smaller electorate allows the most ferocious partisans to prevail. Its one reason someone as ethically and professionally challenged as Ken Paxton keeps getting elected in Texas. When a summertime primary runoff rolls around, only the most staunch conservatives show up.

Theres also a performance issue, or at least a perceived one, with ranked-choice voting. In New York Citys local elections in 2021 and Alaskas midterms in 2023, it took weeks for officials to announce the results. There were unrelated circumstances, but delayed results invite voters to interpret incompetence as malice.

In an age when supercomputers will soon be writing novels, ranked-choice votes  or frankly, any ballots  should be tabulated sooner and with more transparency.

The most realistic fix for low turnout would be to consolidate election dates. Put local elections on the same ballot with presidential and midterms, and more people will participate.

Some warn that a long ballot will frustrate people, causing a lot to skip races near the end. More daunting, the very people who benefit from light turnout dont want to see 40%-60% rates for school boards and local races.

Texas had a brief experiment with this in 2020, thanks to the pandemic. Many May races were shifted to November, and yes, some school bond-programs that might have easily passed were turned down.

Thats democracy in action. Its too much for some interests but definite proof that when it comes to elections, less is more.

Do you have an opinion on this topic? Tell us!

We love to hear from Texans with opinions on the news  and to publish those views in the Opinion section.

 Letters should be no more than 150 words.

 Writers should submit letters only once every 30 days.

 Include your name, address (including city of residence), phone number and email address, so we can contact you if we have questions.

You can submit a letter to the editor two ways:

 Email letters@star-telegram.com (preferred).

 Fill out this online form.

Please note: Letters will be edited for style and clarity. Publication is not guaranteed. The best letters are focused on one topic.
There seems to be a growing consensus among a sect of far-right conservatives in Texas that because House impeachment managers have not produced a smoking gun or a check to Ken Paxton from Nate Paul with the word bribery written in the memo, the prosecution has produced no evidence that Paxton did anything related to bribery, corruption, or fraud.

Well, everybodys been watching too much Knives Out. Because in real life, some things are a bit more subtle, especially when a master manipulator and skilled politician such as Paxton is at work. Wednesdays testimony, the seventh day of the Senate trial to determine if the attorney general is removed from office, showed as much.

Drew Wicker, Ken Paxtons body man, or friend and assistant, testified for several hours. He genuinely seemed to want Paxton to be proven innocent, due to their close relationship, and yet also testified that he had concerns about Paxtons relationship with Paul, a real estate investor.

Wicker testified about several strange things happening: For example, when he stopped working at the AGs office, he continued to get paid via direct deposit from Paxtons campaign. Although he asked not to be paid, the payments continued, Paxton insisted he keep the funds and Wicker  who did not want the payments to be misconstrued  donated the money back to the campaign.

Paxton attorney Tony Buzbee maintained that it was a mere accident  a staffer neglected to stop the direct deposit  but that seemed entirely too coincidental, especially when later Wicker testified to Paxtons penchant for frugality. He wanted the very employee who had suspicions about his friend Paul to keep several thousands dollars in extra funds?

Wicker also testified that while he was at Paxtons home, a contractor said hed discuss the financial implications of requested renovations with Paul three times. Surely a coincidence?

When it came to payment, this was as close of a smoking gun as anyone is going to see: The prosecution maintained that metadata on the invoice for the home renovation showed the invoice was created Oct. 1, 2020, in the evening hours, after the whistleblowers told Paxton they had reported him to the FBI.

Wicker also testified that Paxton used two extra phones few people knew about, that Paxton made calls on Wickers personal cell phone then wiped the call log, and used a Protonmail account, not subject to scrutiny, initially because Paxton went to China, and Protonmail was deemed more secure. Of course, this, too, could just all be Paxtons personal preferences  surely every politician has four cell phones  but its clearly meant to be part of the House managers evidence showing that Paxton was conducting business that benefited him in secrecy.

Jurors must decide, if they find Paxton guilty, to do so beyond a reasonable doubt. Those who believe Paxton should be removed from office might wish that the House managers had a bit more concrete evidence, quid pro quos, and other smoking guns to produce. We havent seen that yet and likely wont.

But they have produced a litany of people and a bevy of circumstantial evidence that just might prove one of Buzbees favorite adages: There are no coincidences in Austin.
When Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron took office in December 2019, he became the first Republican to lead the commonwealths top law enforcement agency in 72 years.

More than three years later, however, one of Camerons first personal projects bears a number of bruises, which multiple attorneys in his office can only chalk up to the influence of politics.

That project was the office of solicitor general, a new division that Cameron created within the OAG dedicated to advocating on the commonwealths behalf in cases on appeal, including in high-profile matters before the Kentucky Supreme Court, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, and the U.S. Supreme Court.

But seven current and former career attorneys within that new division are now describing years of discord, derogation, and emotional abuse, which have gutted what they say was once a tight and effective team. The lawyers also questioned hiring practices that have injected politics into their ranks, as Camerons administration has turned to hand-picked special appointees to fill gaps when career attorneys depart.

The Sex Harass Scandal Inside a Rising GOP Stars Office

That last point has had a profound effect on the office. In the three-plus years since Cameron was elected, the criminal appeals division has lost more than half of its career attorneysalso known as merit attorneys, or, formerly, assistant attorneys general. Most of them either quit or retired early due to the work environment, the sources said.

These sources spoke under condition of anonymity, not to be quoted as either current or former employees, citing fear of professional retaliation against them or their colleagues; the division currently only employs nine career attorneys.

Compounding the problem, the sources said, Cameron has been replacing his departed merit employees with special attorneysyoung, ambitious political appointees with beefier salaries who will phase out with the next administration. These temporary hires will then take their accumulated knowledge and experience with them when they leavein addition to the expertise lost to the exodus of career attorneysin a cycle that the OAG sources said will more than likely leave Camerons new division already in the hole.

It will take years for this office to recover, one attorney said.

Elections, of course, have consequences. And Cameron, as the duly elected AG, has the power to run his agency as he chooses. As the first Republican to hold the office in more than seven decades, he may have wanted to make a statement and take a fresh approach distinct from the longstanding Democratic tradition.

But halfway through his first term, Cameron declared his candidacy for governor, and he will now be leaving the legacy of those decisionspositive and negativeto a possible Democratic successor. (In 2019, Republican mayor of Hopkinsville Carter Hendricks posted an Instagram photoarchived hereof himself meeting then-candidate Cameron, writing that Cameron had pledged not to use AG office for the next campaign in the caption. Very impressive!)

Camerons own political future still hangs in the balance, as the rising GOP star and Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) acolyte lags behind incumbent Gov. Andy Besheara Democrat who is also Camerons predecessor as attorney general.

Under Beshear, and the decades of Democrats who preceded him, Kentucky was one of the few state law enforcement systems without a solicitor general. That position brings various appeals units under one office and allows the state to speak before the courts in a unified voice. And while the creation of this new office carries theoretical efficiencies, in reality, it appears to have only made life harder for a number of career attorneys.

All seven attorneys interviewed for this article pointed the finger at the man Cameron appointed to run the criminal appeals division: deputy solicitor general Jeffrey A. Cross, who the attorneys claim has bullied and belittled dedicated public servants past the point of quitting.

Kentucky GOP Stars Cash Scandal Expands to His Democratic Rival

All seven attorneys denounced the office environment under Cross, describing it variously as a micromanaging nightmare, emotionally abusive, toxic, humiliating, and relentless.

Cross, the sources said, has at times stripped cases from career attorneys who have built them, passing them instead to appointees when the time comes to present arguments in the spotlight. He has jammed up their work with a redundant and demeaning review process, they said, which has led to blown deadlines and at times caused hardened trial lawyers to break down in despair. (Cross, three attorneys claimed, would sometimes use personal information against his employees.)

The Daily Beast previously reported internal complaints filed against Cross, detailing public shamings, hostile treatment of attorneys, manipulating personal information, and anger issues. While an internal investigation found the complaints were unsubstantiated, The Daily Beasts interviews did substantiate them.

In fact, every attorney interviewed for this article criticized the investigations finding, and either related their own experiences with Cross or their independent knowledge of how he treated their colleaguesincluding shouting matches and routine verbal beratement.

They all confirmed that Cross had long been acknowledged as problematic in the office, but described a culture of intimidation that deterred whistleblowers from coming forward. To the attorneys, these work conditions seemed designed, for whatever reason, to pressure the divisions career, non-political lawyersholdovers whose work continues from administration to administration, despite which party is in charge.

But its unclear how much Cameron knows about the turmoil, or how frequently he has checked in on the health of this office that he himself created.

The sources all told The Daily Beast that they rarely interacted with Cameron, if ever. (HuffPost previously reported that Cameron had never used his personal key fob to access the state Capitol during his tenure, though they did find images of him inside the building.) They all observed the young attorney as being openly politically ambitious while remaining disengaged from their work, even uninterested, though two sources also spoke admirably about different policies hed enacted.

Two attorneys described Cameron independently as a ghost, and most of these sources said they had never met him personally, marking that behavior as a stark contrast from prior AGs.

Hes never there, doesnt weigh in on our briefs, never says hello, one attorney said. We sometimes wonder whos really running the show.

I thought that Cameron would be a great AG, another attorney said. The decisions I saw him making were good, and I thought he came into the job with a lot of integrity. You dont typically have that much interaction with the AG if youre an assistant attorney within one of the divisions. But hes responsible for whos appointed, and ultimately he answers for the office.

That goes for Camerons choices to run the OAGs various divisionslike Cross, Camerons pick as deputy solicitor general for criminal appeals. But Camerons responsibility extends to lower-level appointees as well. And as the career attorneys began to peel away, Cameron made another change in tradition.

At first we didnt even know what [these special attorneys] were, one OAG attorney told The Daily Beast. He was paying his buddies extremely high salaries, for what work I dont know.

Seemed like they were more interested in building CVs than doing whats best for the State, another attorney remarked of the appointees.

I loved my job with previous AGs, and the mission was always the same: Do the right thing, be moral, be just, be brave. It was never write this in this way because its the political position we want to take, another attorney said. We were making the world a better place, and then it stopped.

A number of merit attorneys succumbed to the pressures under Cross, either quitting outright or retiring early, according to interviews and staff records. But Cross behavior went unaddressed by Camerons office for more than three years, until Aug. 15, the day that The Daily Beast published a report revealing human resources complaints against him from 2021.

In response to a new public records request from The Daily Beast, the OAG withheld 22 responsive records, citing exemptions for preliminary material, which would include emails and interviews. Then, on the morning of Aug. 15, Cross resigned as deputy solicitor general and transferred to an appointed special attorney position, according to an internal email, with no break in service.

This email serves as notice that I am resigning my position as Division Director of the Division of Criminal Appeals of the Office of the Attorney General effective 8/15/23 contingent upon my appointment by the appointing authority to the position of Special Attorney effective 8/16/23, Cross wrote in the email, which The Daily Beast obtained through an open records request. There will be no break in service.

Cross sent that letter at 8:13 a.m., on Aug. 15. The Daily Beast had asked Camerons office for comment the previous afternoon.

Despite the resignation, the OAG website still listed Cross as deputy solicitor general for criminal appeals for several weeks. He was removed from the page this week, sometime after The Daily Beast reached out with questions for this article. We archived the website as it looked on Monday, listing his name.

Cross did not answer or reply to text messages when contacted at phone numbers associated with him in public records. The Daily Beast also emailed questions to his OAG address, but did not receive a reply.

After Cross was removed from the page, an OAG spokesperson responded to The Daily Beasts emailed comment request. The detailed request noted that a number of attorneys had offered criticisms of Cross and an office environment that has negatively impacted the divisions work and their personal well-being.

Kentucky GOP Star Daniel Cameron Offers a Tortured Defense in Cash Scandal

The Daily Beasts comment request noted that these attorneys still dont understand why no action had been taken against Cross, and that they see Cameron as distant, unresponsive, and disengaged. The email added that attorneys feel the mistreatment was specifically targeted and can think of no explanation beyond political motivations. The request asked why Cross resigned, and whether the OAG or Cameron himself, who created the office, would like to comment on these claims.

The OAG spokespersons statement, printed in full below, did not address these questions. Instead, the statement pointed to the previously reported 2021 investigation and went on to defend Cross character.

The Attorney Generals Office has the utmost respect for its employees and takes all complaints seriously. When a complaint is filed, the Offices human resources department fully and carefully investigates the matter and takes action when warranted. Every employee is also aware of the process for filing complaints with the Personnel Cabinet, the statement said.

Mr. Cross has spent over a decade with the agency in both merit and non-merit roles, working for several consecutive attorneys general, the statement continued. The complaint against him was thoroughly investigated and found to have no merit.

Presented with the spokespersons comment, one attorney called it infuriating. Another said it was par for the course.

That ridiculous investigation finding created an atmosphere where he became bulletproof, another OAG attorney said. How on earth would you expect anyone to come forward with anything new after that?

Spokespeople for the Cameron campaign and the Republican Party of Kentucky didnt reply to a comment request.

While cynics may write such complaints off as common office drama, the lawyers in criminal appeals are no shrinking violets. The sources who spoke with The Daily Beast have more than a century of combined courtroom experience among them. And criminal appeals is particularly rough work, where attorneys are tasked with delivering justice on behalf of the commonwealth in some of the most stomach-churning cases imaginable, including violent crimes, often presenting high-stakes arguments to state and federal appellate courts under scrutiny from the public and the media.

We get the worst of the worst, heinous cases, where children are beaten to death, rapedjust tremendously awful cases that stay with you the rest of your life, and we fought for the victims of these heinous crimes, one attorney told The Daily Beast. That was all taken away from us because we didnt use the correct commas.

In return, these attorneys take home a salary comparable to the average cost of tuition at many law schools, with some staff attorneys making as little as $4,465 per month ($53,580 a year) as of this April, according to state data. The appointed special attorneys command a significantly larger starting salary, often in the mid-$80,000 range, the data shows, with one special attorney in the office of solicitor general pulling six figures. Cross makes $100,000, according to the data.

But under Cross, these seasoned litigators have felt routinely browbeaten and disparaged, stripped of their customary autonomy and the pride they once took in carrying the mantle of justice. All seven sources told The Daily Beast that life under Cross got so brutal that attorneys began to seek professional helpnot because of the nature of their cases, but as a result of their own work environment.

(We were already traumatized, quipped one attorney who went into therapy.)

The details surrounding Cross own appointment are opaque. He first joined the OAG in 2004, worked for years as an assistant attorney general in criminal appeals, then departed in 2019 under murky circumstances. But when Cameron created the office of solicitor general, Cross rejoined the team, seemingly out of nowhere, several attorneys recalled.

The Daily Beast submitted an open records request for documents related to Cross hiring, but only received his initial application from 2004. His 2020 onboarding was reflected in his notice of appointment as deputy solicitor general, with no accompanying application paperwork or internal communications related to that process.

Cross, however, was the neighbor of Camerons Deputy AG Vic Maddox. He mentioned that fact in a December 2019 text message to an attorney in the OAG, in which Crossat the time still in private practicewas apparently trying to get inside information from Maddox about plans to intervene in a constitutional matter.

What is the email address of Vic Maddox (new head of Civil Division)? I need to ask him a question about whether he intends to intevene [sic] in a case (constitutional challenge), Cross wrote in the message, which was obtained by The Daily Beast.

Its unclear whether Maddox provided the information. Cross was appointed three months later.

Camerons tenure appears to have been a boon for young lawyers eager to burnish their cred. Special attorneys arent unique to the solicitor general; they heavily populate the OAGs larger divisions, as well. Staff records from this earlier year show 20 special attorneys working on the civil litigation team, with another 13 on the criminal sidedouble the number of career attorneys in each division.

As for criminal appeals, that office has lost more than half its career lawyers under Cameron.

Kentucky GOP Star Took Cash From Recovery Center Hes Investigating

There were approximately 23 merit attorneys when they took over. There are nine attorneys left, one of the attorneys told The Daily Beast, numbers that multiple sources confirmed. The void has been filled with non-merit, special attorneys, who tend to primarily be young, politically connected attorneys who have come back to Kentucky from Washington, D.C., and leave when the administrations change.

This person noted that after word of the departures got out, jobseekers stopped applying for merit spots.

Government attorneys learn very quickly to avoid agencies that always have openings, the attorney said.

Thats largely because career prosecutors accumulate a specific knowledge base over time. And when they leave en masse, as one OAG attorney put it, Thats a lot of institutional knowledge walking out the door.

The merit attorneys all took the job under the assumption that their employment was abiding, career-oriented, and independent of political winds.

Politics arent supposed to affect us, right? one attorney remarked. Easy for them to say, maybe, but it hasnt quite turned out that way.

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 International Criminal Court on Thursday formally opened an office in Kyiv.

ICC investigators are gathering evidence of alleged Russian war crimes, including child abduction.

The office is a "pivotal" move toward "restoring justice," Ukraine's top prosecutor said.

War crimes investigators opened an office in Kyiv on Thursday to investigate allegations that Russia has been abducting children. A top Ukrainian official described the move as a "pivotal" step toward achieving justice.

The International Criminal Court in March announced that it was issuing an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, declaring that he is "allegedly responsible for the war crime of unlawful deportation" of children from occupied areas of Ukraine.

Ukrainian officials accuse Russia of having deported or forcibly displaced more than 19,500 children, a claim bolstered by independent investigations. Russia has admitted taking minors from Ukraine  and having them adopted by Russian families  but insists it has done so for their own safety. The Geneva Conventions generally prohibit the forcible transfer of civilians from occupied regions to the occupier's own territory.

On Thursday, the head of the ICC, Krim A. A. Khan, was in Kyiv to mark the opening of the new office following the signing of a cooperation agreement in March, under which Ukraine will share evidence it has gathered of possible Russian war crimes. It is one of just a handful of offices that the ICC operates around the globe.

Andriy Kostin, Ukraine's top prosecutor, welcomed the move.

"Today marks a pivotal stride in our journey towards restoring justice," Kostin wrote in a post on social media, saying Ukraine would provide access to witnesses and alleged crime scenes. "We are doing our utmost to ensure that the ICC experts can see the aftermath of the aggressor's crimes with their own eyes and draw their independent conclusions."

Have a news tip? Email this reporter: cdavis@insider.com

Read the original article on Business Insider
DENVER (KDVR)  New video from Denver Arts and Venues shows Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) being escorted out of the Buell Theatre during a Beetlejuice performance on Sunday.

A spokesperson for the venue, Denver Performing Arts Complex, told Nexstars KDVR that two people in the audience were escorted from the theater after we were informed that two patrons were not adhering to the policies.

According to the incident report, the two patrons were warned during intermission to stop certain behavior after three audience members complained. The report said the patrons were escorted out after security received another complaint about the patrons being loud and at the time [they] were recording, The Denver Post reported.

The two patrons, even after being escorted to the lobby of the theater, refused to leave.

They told me they would not leave. I told them that they need to leave the theater and if they do not, they will be trespassing. The patrons said they would not leave. I told them I would [be] going to get Denver Police. They said go get them, an usher said in the incident report, according to The Denver Post.

Police reportedly arrived and stayed in the lobby until the two patrons left.

Boebert posted on X Tuesday evening, saying, Its true, I did thoroughly enjoy the AMAZING Beetlejuice at the Buell Theatre and I plead guilty to laughing and singing too loud! Everyone should go see it if you get the chance this week and please let me know how it ends!

Rep. Lauren Boebert files for divorce from husband

Boeberts spokesperson did not confirm exactly what the disturbance was but suggested she may have been using her phone, advising attendees with a gentle reminder to leave their phones outside of the venue.

I can confirm the stunning and salacious rumors: in her personal time, Congresswoman Lauren Boebert is indeed a supporter of the performing arts (gasp!) and, to the dismay of a select few, enthusiastically enjoyed a weekend performance of Beetlejuice, Boeberts campaign manager, Drew Sexton, reportedly wrote in a statement to The Denver Post on Tuesday.

Boeberts spokesperson also denied accusations that she was vaping during the show, and said, The venue ticket site notes there are heavy fog machines and electronic cigarettes used during the play, believe it was a misunderstanding from someone sitting near her.

During the argument in the theater, the two made comments along the lines of do you know who I am and I will be contacting the mayor, according to a venue statement provided to the Associated Press.

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert was escorted out of the Buell Theater in Denver after she was accused of violating policy. A representative for Boebert confirmed that she was removed from a showing of Beetlejuice but did not specifically say why. (Video credit: Denver Arts & Sciences via Storyful)

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert was escorted out of the Buell Theater in Denver after she was accused of violating policy. A representative for Boebert confirmed that she was removed from a showing of Beetlejuice but did not specifically say why. (Video credit: Denver Arts & Venues via Storyful)

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert was escorted out of the Buell Theater in Denver after she was accused of violating policy. A representative for Boebert confirmed that she was removed from a showing of Beetlejuice but did not specifically say why. (Video credit: Denver Arts & Venues via Storyful)

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert was escorted out of the Buell Theater in Denver after she was accused of violating policy. A representative for Boebert confirmed that she was removed from a showing of Beetlejuice but did not specifically say why. (Video credit: Denver Arts & Venues via Storyful)

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert was escorted out of the Buell Theater in Denver after she was accused of violating policy. A representative for Boebert confirmed that she was removed from a showing of Beetlejuice but did not specifically say why. (Video credit: Denver Arts & Venues via Storyful)

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert was escorted out of the Buell Theater in Denver after she was accused of violating policy. A representative for Boebert confirmed that she was removed from a showing of Beetlejuice but did not specifically say why. (Video credit: Denver Arts & Venues via Storyful)

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert was escorted out of the Buell Theater in Denver after she was accused of violating policy. A representative for Boebert confirmed that she was removed from a showing of Beetlejuice but did not specifically say why. (Video credit: Denver Arts & Venues via Storyful)

Boebert, a Republican, was first elected in 2020 and is currently in her second term as the representative for Colorados 3rd Congressional District.

She narrowly won reelection against Democrat Adam Frisch in 2022. It was the closest district race in the country, with Boebert ultimately winning by 546 votes.

Frisch has already announced a second bid to unseat her in 2024.

The Hills Sarah Fortinsky contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
Law enforcement and officials from the Algona Police Department, Kossuth County Sherrif's Office, Kossuth County Attorney's Office, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the Iowa Department of Public Safety announced the death of an Algona police officer during a Thursday morning news conference.

The shooting happened around 8 p.m. Wednesday near the Kossuth County Fairgrounds in Algona. Police Officer Kevin Cram, 33, was killed trying to serve an arrest warrant on 43-year-old Kyle Ricke.

Ricke was arrested several hours later by the Brown County Sheriff's Office in rural Minnesota.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Replay: Law enforcement announce Algona Officer Kevin Cram killed
The main conference room is shown inside the Situation Room complex at the White House in Washington, DC. (Photo by SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images)

It looks more like Hollywood than it used to, is the most common response we get, Marc Gustafson, a Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director of the Situation Room, told a group of reporters inside the White House Situation Room.

The White House Situation Room (also known as WHSR, or whizzer), where the President of the United States meets with military officials, national security staff and video conferences in world leaders, is actually a series of different rooms totaling some 5,500 square feet. It also just underwent a $50 million renovation that left it with a rich, new car smell.

Located on the ground floor of the West Wing, the room where President Barack Obama famously watched as U.S. Navy SEALs raided Osama bin Laden's Abbottabad compound was essentially the same room where President Lyndon B. Johnson poured over details of the Vietnam War. Its safe to say the countrys most important office space was in need of an upgrade, and it got one. The room was gutted and those updates took more than a year to finish.

When all was said and done, White House reporters got a glimpse into the room before it opened for its intended purpose: Americas most secret work. President Joe Biden received the first classified intelligence brief of a new era last week, then took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to praise the upgrades.

Folks, the newly renovated White House Situation Room is up and running, Biden said. My thanks to everyone who worked on this incredible facility.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyJVPizygDY

The whizzers new look is mahogany paneling and stone masonry, all from American-made sources. Its filled with LED lights that change color, flat panel monitors and television sets and transparent glass paneling that can transform to block views with the flick of a switch. No mobile phones are allowed inside the room, so landline phones still dominate.

After the failed Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba , President John F. Kennedys administration created the White House Situation Room as a crisis management nerve center, where officials involved in any given operation could meet and coordinate efforts, intelligence and communication.

Since then, subsequent administrations have given the room certain upgrades. President Richard Nixons staff upgraded the room because it offered very little in the way of comfort. President George W. Bushs administration upgraded the room for the technology needed at the time, including video teleconferencing. It was last updated in 2007.

President George W. Bush delivers remarks during the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly renovated White House Situation Room Friday, May 18, 2007. (White House photo by David Bohrer)

The latest overhaul of the room required workers who were temporarily given security clearances. They dug five feet into the ground below the room to make way for the latest technology. The room is manned 24 hours a day, seven days a week. After passing through a reception area, visitors and officials can enter the main conference area, also known as the JFK Room. To the right are two smaller soundproof rooms and to the left is an always-active operations center where personnel monitor world events.

The room was also designed so that such a renovation wont be needed again. The areas where technology was installed are modular, so aspects can be removed and replaced when necessary. Even the Presidential Seal can be swapped out depending on whos in the room at any given time or during any given meeting. Its as close to a Hollywood look as the Sit Room has ever come.
Researchers in Dublin documented a newly born star with an infrared camera using the James Webb Space Telescope, which showed hot molecular material jetting out in opposite directions from the new star in a formation that resembles Darth Maul's lightsaber.

The team published a paper in Nature describing their findings last week and today released an ultra-high-resolution capture of the beams emitted from the star, named Herbig-Haro 211. The star, which resides in the Perseus constellation, is about 1,000 light-years away from Earth and is just a few thousand years old, which on galactic timescales means it's just a baby. One day, Herbig-Haro 211, or HH 211 for short, will likely grow into a star much like our own, but it currently has a mass that is about 8% of our solar system's star.

Webb was able to capture infrared light emitted from these bipolar light beams, a blend of molecules like hydrogen, carbon monoxide and silicon monoxide. In this star system, scientists have observed huge bow shocks undulating toward and away from us, as well as an inner jet that seems to "wiggle" in symmetry on either side of the star. According to NASA, this "suggests that the protostar may in fact be an unresolved binary star," meaning there could actually be two stars beneath this mysterious cloud of molecules. If it's a protostar, on the other hand, that means it's still gathering enough materials to form itself.

"The research reveals that the very youngest stars appear to emit beams of almost pure molecules, contrary to what astronomers thought before, and move very slowly," said Tom Ray, a researcher on the Dublin team, in a statement about HH211. "How such beams are produced without the added ingredients of atoms and ions, is currently a mystery."
(Bloomberg) -- Europe and the US issued Iran a new ultimatum on Thursday: cooperate with investigators to resolve a UN nuclear-watchdog probe or face a new legal motion of censure.

Most Read from Bloomberg

France, Germany, the UK and US made their demand at the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna, where diplomats convened this week to discuss the Islamic Republics nuclear work.

The watchdog refrained from punishing Iran at the meeting, exercising caution ahead of a planned exchange of US prisoners for sanctioned Iranian cash thats seen as a precursor to the potential resumption of talks over the countrys nuclear program.

Read more: Tracking the Twists and Turns of the US-Iran Conflict: QuickTake

While the Islamic Republic has slowed its production of near-bomb grade uranium in recent months, and signaled its readiness for a new round of diplomacy, it hasnt answered IAEA questions about the presence of particles detected at undeclared sites.

IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said this week hes concerned the focus on the swap  and easing tensions with Iran  would overshadow that investigation.

Iran needs to provide, without further delay, technically credible information on the current location(s) of nuclear material and contaminated equipment, the four nations wrote in a statement.

The row over Irans nuclear program, about to enter its third decade at the IAEA, has increasingly divided member states. A separate group of countries led by China and Russia said the IAEA and Iran should continue to work without facing political pressure.

It is fundamentally important that the interaction between Iran and the IAEA on resolution of the outstanding issues continues, they wrote. This process should be carried out in a depoliticized manner without interference from the outside.

Irans nuclear work has increasingly been caught up in larger geopolitical developments, including Russias war in Ukraine and a diplomatic thaw between the Islamic Republic and Saudi Arabia.

US officials have privately acknowledged theyve already begun to relax enforcement of sanctions on oil sales, allowing Tehran to restore production to the highest level since the restrictions kicked in five years ago.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  The Philippines was named the world's top rice importer for the marketing year 2022-2023, according to the latest report from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The USDA's "Grain: World Markets and Trade" revealed that the country has approved the importation of 3.9 million metric tons (MT) of rice from January 2022 to December 2023.

It surpassed China's rice importation at 3.5 million MT during the same period. China was hailed as a consistent top rice importer since 2019.

"In 2008, top importer the Philippines continuously bought larger volumes as prices escalate," the report read. "This year, it is delaying purchases, awaiting lower prices."

For January 2023 to August 2024, the Philippines is seen to slightly decrease its importation by 100,000 MT while China is expected to increase its importation by 500,000 MT, regaining world's top rice importer spot.

In terms of milled rice production, the Philippines lags behind at 12.631 million MT from China's 145.946 million MT and India's 136 million MT production for the year 2022-2023.

Thailand and Vietnam are reportedly the top two sources of imported rice in the Philippines in 2023.

Earlier, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who concurrently heads the Department of Agriculture (DA), ordered a price ceiling on rice after the government detected a surge in prices.

The executive order states that regular milled rice may only be sold for up to 41 per kilo, while the price ceiling on well-milled rice is at 45 per kilo. Its implementation began on Sept. 5.

The directive drew mixed reactions from lawmakers and various farmers groups. Some said the price cap would not stabilize grain prices and would only hurt small-scale retailers in the long run. Others, however, said it has contributed to the drop in rice prices.

READ: Govt warns of stricter rice price cap implementation in coming days

Marcos admin blamed

Reacting to the USDA report, the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) on Thursday hit the Marcos administration, as it attributed the countrys top importer status to the presidents import liberalization policies.

"This is nothing to be proud of, KMP chairperson Danilo Ramos said. We are an agricultural country and yet we are set to become the world's top rice importer."

"Just as we warned about four years ago, RA (Republic Act) 11203 or the Rice Liberalization Law led us to this state of food insecurity, he added.

The group reiterated its call for the government to do away with importation, which it said has contributed to the chronic problems of the domestic rice industry.

It noted that local rice farmers suffer, as palay prices are seen to drop to their lowest levels whenever imports arrive.

At the Asian Summit in Singapore on Wednesday, Marcos acknowledged that the country cannot continue to rely on importation and said the government will continue to develop the Philippine agricultural sector.

Meanwhile, the KMP also emphasized its position against zero tariffs on rice imports and called on Marcos to step down as DA secretary.

A number of other groups have also urged the president to appoint a full-time agriculture chief, as issues concerning the sector have piled up since the early days of his administration.

Earlier, Marcos said he is still needed in the Agriculture department and that he will only leave the top DA post once "structural changes" have been made in the agency.
Correction: A previous version of this article misidentified who made claims that Delta Extraction was engaging in inversion. Andrew Mullins, director of the MoCann Trade Association, informed the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services' Division of Cannabis Regulation that inversion might be happening in Missouri. The anonymous source's report alleged that Delta Extraction was engaging in inversion.

On Aug. 14, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services' Division of Cannabis Regulation issued a recall for Delta Extraction's marijuana products, following the Aug. 2 revocation of the Robertsville, Missouri-based facility's manufacturer's license.

Over 62,000 retail products containing cannabis concentrate from Delta Extraction have been recalled. Recently, a judge denied a temporary restraining order the company requested in an attempt to block the state's license suspension and recall.

Here's what to know about the situation.

Why did Missouri issue a recall?

According to court documents, the DCR issued an order of immediate suspension on Aug. 2 for Delta Extraction due to a "credible and imminent threat to public health" when it sourced untested "marijuana or converted hemp" from outside Missouri.

In June, DCR received a report from Andrew Mullins, director of the MoCann Trade Association, that a practice called "inversion" might be happening in Missouri. Inversion is where illegal marijuana products from out of state are added to a facility's products in order to bolster production numbers. DCR also received a report from a source that wished to remain anonymous alleging that Delta Extraction was engaging in inversion.

Article XIV of the state constitution requires that all marijuana sold in Missouri be cultivated in Missouri, and all marijuana-infused products sold in Missouri to be manufactured in Missouri.

More: Here's what to know about DHSS' recall of 60,000+ marijuana products

An investigation by the DCR, according to court records, also found "pervasive irregularities" in the state tracking system "such that DCR cannot confirm any product originating from Delta Extraction has been compliantly tested."

After the Aug. 2 notice, the DCR also conducted a site visit at a Delta Extraction facility. According to court records, the company violated additional state regulations by failing to maintain security cameras capable of being accessed remotely by DHSS at all times. A later visit to obtain video security footage was delayed due to an incident in which security equipment that maintained video recordings at the facility was reported stolen.

Delta Extraction appealed the decision to suspend its license and recall products to the Administrative Hearing Commission, and also filed for a temporary restraining order in Cole County Circuit Court.

Did Delta Extraction break the law?

That's a difficult question to answer.

During an Administrative Hearing Commission hearing, Delta Extraction revealed it was using industrial hemp to manufacture products, including THC-A, some of which it obtained from out of state.

The state says that the company engaged in inversion by using out-of-state products, but Delta Extraction says it was bringing in industrial hemp, which is a federally legal substance.

Missouri's state statute does not include industrial hemp, or products made from industrial hemp, in the definition of marijuana.

A state regulation that took effect July 30 added THC-A to the list of products that must be derived from marijuana cultivated in Missouri. Delta Extraction said in an administrative hearing that it has since complied with that regulation, though before July 30 it did obtain some THC-A from out of state.

What is the difference between hemp and marijuana?

The difference between hemp and marijuana comes down to the amount of THC, the substance that causes a high, in the plant. Hemp is any part of the cannabis sativa plant with no more than 0.3% THC, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hemp has more of the compound CBD than marijuana, a non-psychoactive compound found in both marijuana and weed.

Why is it a big deal that the THC Delta Extraction used was made from hemp?

With heat, acid or solvents, CBD can be converted to THC, like delta-8 or delta-9 THC. The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the Federal Controlled Substances Act, and opened the door for hemp-derived THC.

Missouri does not regulate hemp or hemp-derived THC and labs that test products for safety don't automatically look for certain chemicals or solvents, according to reporting from the Missouri Independent. The conversion process could involve chemicals like propane, ethanol or sulfuric acid.

More: 'Serious health risks': Industry experts warn of contaminants in marijuana alternative delta-8

We dont know if its safe because  were not actually looking for the solvent that was used, Anthony David, owner and chief operating officer of Green Precision Analytics, told the Missouri Independent. Because we only look for the solvents that the state tells us to look for. They tell us to look for like 25 different residual solvents, but the stuff that they use to do isomeric conversion, we dont look for.

There are also concerns about the safety of hemp-derived THC, such as delta-8. A 2021 study in the American Chemical Society's journal Chemical Research in Toxicology found lead, mercury and silicon in an analysis of 27 e-cigarette products from 10 brands.

Why did Delta Extraction seek a review?

Delta Extraction sought a temporary restraining order to prevent DHSS from continuing the recall and from continuing to suspend their license.

In court records, Delta Extraction alleges that the order of immediate suspension did not identify what the threat was or how they may eliminate it. It also alleges that the Division of Cannabis Regulation was aware of the company using industrial hemp to make some of its products and had never raised issues before.

Why did the judge dismiss the temporary restraining order?

Cole County Circuit Court Judge Cotton Walker dismissed Delta Extraction's temporary restraining order, and the case. In his motion, he started that Delta Extraction had not exhausted administrative remedies, since the appeal before the Administrative Hearing Commission had not been fully litigated.

According to reporting from the Missouri Independent, the Administrative Hearing Commission's decision on the appeal is still pending and there will be a hearing on Sept. 29.

What next?

The AHC hearing on Sept. 29 is likely not the end of Delta Extraction's legal battles. The company's marijuana concentrate, or distillate, was sold to other marijuana manufacturers and used in a variety of edibles and other products  products that, due to the recall, are now sitting in storage in dispensaries across Missouri.

Dark Horse Medicinals of Missouri LLC is suing Delta Extraction for damages, accusing the company of selling it concentrated cannabis oil, that "may be unusable in the State of Missouri," according to court documents. In May, Dark Horse bought about $325,000 of distillate that it did not know was partially derived from hemp and made about $1 million worth of products, which now cannot be used due to the recall.

Dark Horse isn't the only company that purchased product from Delta Extraction. According to reporting from the Missouri Independent, Old Route 66 Wellness CEO John Lopez bought a small amount of distillate in April to use in his Bison Infused products. Lopez now has $800,000 of product he can't sell and told the Missouri Independent that they would have never bought it if they had known it was chemically converted THC from hemp.

Susan Szuch is the health and public policy reporter for the Springfield News-Leader. Follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @szuchsm. Story idea? Email her at sszuch@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Here's the latest on the Delta Extraction marijuana recall in Missouri
National Voter Registration Day  an annual celebration of voter participation in our democracy  marks its eleventh anniversary on Tuesday. The holiday is part of a nonpartisan initiative to get as many eligible voters registered as possible in time for Novembers election season.

Heres what you need to know.

How do I register to vote for the first time?

In Missouri, you can register online, register in person at your election office, print and mail a paper application to your election office or request a paper application be mailed to you.

A quick note about finding your KC election office: The Kansas City Election Board oversees elections for Kansas City residents who live south of the river, and the Jackson County Election Board manages elections for residents in Jackson County who live outside of Kansas City  think Independence or Raytown. The Platte County Board of Elections and the Clay County Board of Election Commissioners cover everything north of the river.

You can also ask someone at your library branch to help you register to vote.

In Kansas, you can register online if you have a Kansas drivers license or non-driving ID card. If you dont have one, you can print and mail a paper registration application. The addresses of each countys election office are listed on the second page.

If you prefer to register in person, you can visit one of the many registration sites in your county  heres the list for Johnson County and the list for Wyandotte County.

I recently moved or changed my name. How do I update my registration?

In Missouri, you can update your name with an election judge at your polling place on Election Day. You can vote in one election under your old name, but then you have to send in a new voter registration application with your new name.

You can also update your address on Election Day if you moved to a new address within the same county and your old registration is still active.

If you moved to a new county, moved to Missouri from out of state or if your registration at your old address was removed from the voter rolls, you have to send in a new registration application.

In Kansas, you have to complete the voter registration application every time you move.

What do I need in order to register to vote?

Both states only require prospective voters to provide their full name, date of birth and address of residence when registering to vote.

In Missouri, you may be asked to provide a drivers license number and/or a Social Security number on your registration application. However, both of these are optional. If you dont have a drivers license or a Social Security number, leave these fields blank.

In Kansas, you must have a Kansas drivers license or non-driving ID to register online. If you have an out-of-state ID or no ID, you have to fill out a paper application as described above and provide the last four digits of your Social Security number if you have one. If you dont have one, you can write none.

You may also be given the option to affiliate yourself with a political party.

You have to be at least 18 years old at the next election, a resident and a U.S. citizen to vote.

Do you have more questions about registering to vote in Missouri or Kansas? Ask the Service Journalism team at kcq@kcstar.com.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaks during the daily briefing at the White House in Washington on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. | Susan Walsh, Associated Press

At a White House press briefing Wednesday, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was asked whether she thought information would emerge during the House impeachment inquiry that might incriminate President Joe Biden , while she accused Republicans of pursuing impeachment as a political stunt.

But House Speaker Kevin McCarthy laid out his reasons for pursuing an inquiry, saying he believes there is enough evidence that Biden may have been involved in his son Hunter Biden s foreign business dealings.

Jean-Pierre said Republicans in Congress spent all year investigating President Biden and have found no evidence, because the president didnt do anything wrong.

The only reason Speaker McCarthy is doing this political stunt ... is because Marjorie Taylor Greene threatened to shut down the government. Can you imagine shutting down the government over a political stunt? ... She wanted him to actually do this, and if he didnt she would shut down the government, she said.

Jean-Pierre also said she believed Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., influenced McCarthy to announce a formal impeachment inquiry, saying Gaetz threatened to oust him as a speaker if he didnt do it.

Related

According to an interview with McCarthy, R-Calif., on NPR, the inquiry will be focused on:

Official interactions with Hunter Bidens business, specifically those with foreign clients, in particular the Ukrainian energy company, Burisma.

Money paid to President Biden or other family members for work with foreign entities.

Whether Hunter Biden received special treatment from the Justice Department in ongoing investigations.

Related

When asked if the White House will comply with requests, Jean-Pierre said, Were not going to speculate on baseless accusations, and then when asked the same question again, referred it on to the White House counsel.

When asked how President Biden has reacted to impeachment claims, Jean-Pierre did not comment.
The city of Hollywood is applying for up to $6 million in grants to exchange traffic lanes for bike lanes and trails along two major roadways.

The proposed plans at Polk Street and West Park Road aim to reduce the speed of vehicles while making a safer space for bicyclists and pedestrians, officials say.

The grants would cover the construction costs of the projects, and the city would have to pay an estimated $750,000 per project to fund the design, engineering inspection, contingency, operations and maintenance, said Joann Hussey, a spokeswoman for the city of Hollywood.

The city applied for the grants of the Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization, a public agency that coordinates transportation and redevelopment plans with 31 local governments and municipalities in Broward County, Hussey said. The funds are expected to be awarded between September and October of 2024. If awarded, funding would become available in 2029 for design, and construction would begin in 2030.

Heres what to know about these two proposals:

Polk Street

The Polk Street Traffic Calming Project from North 26th Avenue to Dixie Highway consists of slowing traffic by repurposing one vehicle lane into one of these options:

 Option A: One bi-directional buffered bicycle lane.

 Option B: Two multi-purpose trails.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The plan includes improved sidewalks and crosswalks, wheelchair accessibility upgrades and new landscaping.

West Park Road

The West Park Road Traffic Calming Project between North Park Road and North 56th Avenue consists of reconfiguring one eastbound and one westbound lane into buffered bicycle lanes.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The plan includes improved sidewalks and crosswalks, wheelchair accessibility upgrades, median improvements and new landscaping.

A buffered buffered one-directional bike lane with median along a portion of West Park Road could become a reality in a few years in Hollywood, Florida.

What are the next steps?

City employees are hopeful that Hollywood will be awarded the grants, Hussey said.

Before any work begins, a detailed traffic study would need to be done to confirm the lane re-purposing is justified and beneficial, she said. If these projects move forward they could include buffered bicycle lanes, new sidewalks and crosswalks, landscaping and ADA upgrades, roadway milling and paving, and improved signage and signaling.

Do you you want to know more?

If you want to know more about these proposals and let your voice be heard, heres what you can do:

 Email the city at cslip@hollywoodfl.org.

 Watch a recent public meeting online. The password is pPZKvKk6.

 Visit the projects webpage.

 Click HERE to complete a form.
The summer of Barbie is officially over. This past weekend, moviegoers flocked to a much different Warner Bros. attraction, which blew through the multiplex like the first chill of autumn. The Nun II isn't a huge smash, at least not yet; its $34.9-million opening is only about half of what its predecessor made out the gate in 2018. All the same, the towering demon in the flowing black habit is clearly still a box-office draw. Audiences, it would seem, havent lost their faith in the power of shlock draped in the pious vestments of Catholic dogma.

The Nun II isnt merely a sequel. Its a sequel to a spinoff of a sequel, starring a monster first brought in for some strictly supporting haunting around the margins of The Conjuring II. The franchise, which spans decades and includes starring vehicles for multiple malevolent beasties, is now the most profitable series of horror movies ever. Does the average moviegoer know or care that theyre seeing the latest installment in the "Conjuring extended universe" when they buy a ticket for The Nun II or Annabelle 13? Tenuous connection aside, do these movies just reliably appeal to viewers devout, thrill-starved, or both?

The first Nun remains the highest-grossing branch off the Conjuring tree. Maybe it traveled better overseas thanks to its old-world European backdrop. Set in a majestically spired Romanian monastery beset by evil in the early 1950s, that film possessed a certain classically gothic qualitya fog of throwback Hammer Horror atmosphere that blanketed its story of holy men and women flushing out a demon in their midst. You didnt need to be a true believer to enjoy its creaky haunted-house vibe, nor its ecclesiological spin on buddy-cop convention, sending a veteran priest, Father Burke (Demian Bichir), and a novice nun, Sister Irene (Taissa Farmiga), to investigate the trouble in Transylvania.

The pairing was fun enough, but are we really expected to remember these characters and remain invested in their ongoing holy adventures? Unlike the Annabelle sequels, which keep the evil doll but cycle out her victims, The Nun II all but demands a Wikipedia refresher. Father Burke has wisely died between movies, sparing him (and Bichir) another tussle with the devils most creatively spooky minions. That puts Sister Irene in the hot seat with the Vatican, which presses her into hunting down the evil force making its way west across the continent from Romania. Its ride: Maurice (Jonas Bloquet), a.k.a. Frenchie, the hunky villager who audiences may or may not remember from The Nun, now possessed by the demon he previously helped defeat.

Warner Bros.

Theres a certain youth-pastor energy to the Conjuring movies, which play like Sunday school in a carnival funhouse. The Nun II gives that Christian dorkiness a new shape: Its more like a a gorier Da Vinci Code, juggling scenes of supernatural mayhem with ones of the intrepid characters (including another nun played by Storm Reid) jet-setting across the most scenic stretches of European cobblestone, consulting with church historians to uncover clues. But the series is still speaking, chiefly, to the inner Catholic child of its audience. Much of The Nun II takes place in the dusty, bug-infested basements and attics of old churchesthe kind of spaces an altar boy might fear. And who is the Nun herself but a grotesque perversion of any scary-strict Mother Superior, with fangs and claws instead of a ruler?

Warner Bros.

The funny thing about the Conjuring movies and their spinoffs is that they sprinkle a little solemn religious dread over what are, essentially, cheap secular thrills. They're like Poltergeist remakes in Exorcist garb. In The Nun II, all that hushed talk of souls in peril is just connective tissue between bump-in-the-dark set pieces. The movie is structured like a Pixies song, all quiet LOUD quiet, with stretches of suspenseful calm interrupted by bursts of gory violence. Director Michael Chaves, who made the previous Conjuring movie, lacks James Wan's gift for this kind of spring-loaded setup and payoffthough he does stage one really good sequence involving a magazine rack in an alley that recalls some of the Pennywise peekaboo terrorism of the recent It movies.

But The Nun II, like its predecessor, doesn't really tap a true nerve of religious terror, that bone-deep Biblical fear of damnation. The threat is too inherently physical; in the last movie, a shotgun proved as handy as a bible. Even poor Frenchie, possessed by the Nun, doesnt really seem at risk of losing himself to the dark side. He hasnt been seduced by evil, only marionetted by it; its the difference between someone forcing your hand to pull a trigger and someone talking you into it. The latter is much scarierits the danger of true corruption. In the Conjuring universe, the good are always good, evil is always evil, and one usually overcomes the other by the sound and fury of the climax.

Warner Bros.

Maybe that's one big reason these movies are so popular: Theyre basically faith-based funhouse rides that graze their audience's superstitions without really exploiting the deeper fears underlying them. Theyre scary, but not too scary, because they make evil look inherently defeatable, with the right attitude or cross or recited passage. And they offset their dread with the comfort of formulaa series of conventions as dependable as scripture, including the introduction of some new creepy threat for the Vatican to vanquish. In this case, its an unholy, horned goat that leaps off of stained glass and into our world. Hell probably get his own spinoff one of these Septembers.

Liked this review? Sign up to get our weekly See Skip newsletter every Tuesday and find out what new shows and movies are worth watching, and which arent.

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.
MADISON  After a decade of Democratic efforts to adopt the "Iowa model" of nonpartisan redistricting in Wisconsin, GOP Assembly Speaker Robin Vos  who shot down the idea at every turn  appeared to have a change of heart. Assembly Republicans introduced a bill on Tuesday that he said would do just that.

But this time, Democrats wanted no part of it. Within an hour of the announcement, it was clear the minority party saw the proposal as more of a fig leaf than an olive branch.

Gov. Tony Evers called it "bogus." Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer wrote it off as "an obvious attempt to distract from (Republicans') efforts to impeach Justice (Janet) Protasiewicz and undermine our democracy." Sen. Kelda Roys characterized it as a ridiculous political stunt meant just to manipulate headlines, otherwise known as the Robin Vos special.

"Sometimes you have to listen, and you change your mind," Vos told reporters of his about-face on Tuesday.

While he prefers Wisconsin's existing redistricting system, the Assembly Speaker said, he thinks "people want politicians who say, 'I have an open mind to be persuaded.'"

Democrats arent buying that.

I don't see this as a genuine offer, said Sen. Mark Spreitzer, D-Beloit. I think Speaker Vos doesn't do anything unless it benefits him. And there's a reason he's putting this out right now to distract from his talk of impeachment, and to try to find any excuse to delay action in the state Supreme Court that might overturn his gerrymandered maps. I don't think it is his goal to get fair maps and end gerrymandering in Wisconsin.

Republicans aggressively used the redistricting process in 2011 to draw maps that heavily favor the party in legislative races, after the GOP wave election in 2010 that gave the party control of both houses of the Legislature and the governor's mansion. The state Supreme Court last year ruled in favor of maps drawn by legislative Republicans that made minimal changes to the 2011 election boundaries that handed them a lop-sided majority.

More: Gilbert: How Wisconsin's redistricting guarantees a lopsided Republican legislature in a 50/50 state

After years of opposing such plans, Vos and Assembly Republicans announced Tuesday they would pursue legislation this week that would allow the nonpartisan Legislative Reference Bureau to write new legislative maps instead of partisans.

Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer (D-Racine) speaks during a news conference by Assembly Democrats Thursday, September 14, 2023 at the Capitol in Madison, Wis.

The move is aimed at bypassing lawsuits before the state Supreme Court that seek to rewrite the current GOP-favorable maps that were adopted in 2021. Republicans have threatened to pursue impeachment proceedings against Protasiewicz if she doesn't recuse herself from the cases, having referred to the state's maps as "rigged" during her election campaign this year.

"Hopefully it means that we will take all of the money that has been wasted by the liberal interests suing us over the maps and instead we get to say we don't need to waste those taxpayer dollars because we can adapt the process that has been used flawlessly in Iowa," Vos said Tuesday.

More: Wisconsin is famous for its cliffhanger elections. But further down the ballot, competition barely exists.

The Assembly is set to take up the legislation on Thursday. Vos said he has "briefed" the state Senate but did not say whether Senate Republicans were supportive.

Its clear, though, that Democrats are not  even those who have spearheaded previous efforts to implement nonpartisan redistricting.

I dont like to vote for any bill on any subject that isnt properly vetted, said Rep. Deb Andraca, D-Whitefish Bay, who noted the bill is going to the floor two days after its introduction, without a public hearing. If its worth doing, its worth doing right, and this is a false deadline.

Democratic lawmakers who have worked on redistricting bills are put off by the fact that the GOP proposal is most similar to a bill from 2015  rather than more recent proposals that have been adjusted and still received support from a handful of Republicans.

Those measures were included in several of Evers budget proposals and removed by Republicans. A key difference between those proposals and the one introduced by Assembly Republicans lies with what happens if the Legislature cant agree on a set of maps after three tries.

Under the GOP bill, the Legislative Reference Bureau would submit maps to the Legislature, which could reject the first two proposals. Once a third proposal is introduced, lawmakers could amend it with a simple majority. It would then require the governors approval, and would likely end up in the courts without an agreement  unless the Legislature were able to override the governors veto.

Recent bills, and Evers budget proposal, would have required a three-fourths majority to approve the final maps.

"We don't want to make a change just for the sake of making a change. What we want is a system that guarantees that the voters of Wisconsin get to elect their legislature rather than politicians picking their own voter," Roys said.

In 2021, the last time the Marquette University Law School polled on the question, 63% of voters said they thought a nonpartisan commission should be responsible for drawing legislative districts, compared to 25% who thought it should be left to the Legislature and the governor.

THANK YOU: Subscribers' support makes this work possible. Help us share the knowledge by buying a gift subscription.

DOWNLOAD THE APP: Get the latest news, sports and more

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why GOP suddenly backs redistricting reform and Dems aren't buying it
It was already a diplomatically thorny visit for Justin Trudeau to India for last weekends G20, with relations between the two countries souring in recent months. But things only got more awkward as Trudeau was forced to stay an extra two days in Delhi after his prime ministerial plane was hit by a mechanical issue.

The Canadian leaders visit for the G20 summit was prolonged by the unexpected delay in fixing the issue with his Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) plane, as well as the failure of a replacement plane on Monday that could have brought him back earlier  leaving him and his Canadian delegation stranded abroad for days.

The embarrassing incident is surprisingly far from the only recent example of a world leader or senior minister being stranded on foreign soil by a breakdown involving their official aircraft.

In August, Germanys foreign minister Annalena Baerbock and her delegation to Abu Dhabi were forced to go back to a layover airport after the Airbus she used suffered a problem with a landing flap failing to open.

Experts say that while the cause of such incidents may vary, they can typically be traced to a lack of defence spending by the country involved.

Technical issues are primarily due to two reasons  using old or obsolete aircraft (a practice that is particularly common with nations under international sanctions), or a countrys economic situation or political reluctance to spend large amounts maintaining superior fleets of aircraft for their heads of state and government.

Trudeaus 36-year-old Airbus A310 remained stationed on the tarmac in New Delhi for two days until a replacement Airbus CC-150 Polaris managed to fly him out of his plane misery.

File: Justin Trudeau walks off the plane upon his arrival at Hiroshima airport in Mihara, Hiroshima to attend the G7 Leaders Summit (AFP via Getty Images)

Canada has a relatively low defence budget that impacts it in a number of ways, including limiting what it can offer Ukraine in terms of military aid. Its a lack of spending that leaves even the prime minister out in the cold.

It ranks 25th out of 31 Nato members on defence spending, committing only 1.2 per cent of its GDP in 2022, according to the alliances latest data this year. Germany ranks just two spots above Canada in terms of spending.

The Germans and Canadians are using aircraft which, for commercial reasons, have already fallen out of favour globally and have been withdrawn by various users, says Angad Singh, an independent defence analyst.

A handout picture shows Indian prime minister Narendra Modi during a bilateral discussion with Justin Trudeau in New Delhi on 10 September (EPA)

The bulk of users of [the Airbus] 310 were very quick to ditch the aircraft the moment it was replaced by [Airbus] 330 or [Boeing] 777, he tells The Independent.

Using an outdated model limits the availability of maintenance workers who are experienced in fixing such aircraft, as well as meaning a lack of potential replacements in event of a full breakdown, he explains.

There is no economic case to keep the entire fleet pipeline available for the aircraft, which is now down to a few dozen in service in the world, Singh says.

The luggage of the German delegation is lined up to be checked by sniffer dogs of the German Police assigned as security to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz plane before bording the flight back to Berlin with Joe Bidens plane Air Force One in the background, from the Nato Summit in Vilnius (AFP via Getty Images)

Once known as the flying Taj Mahal, the Airbus A310 is now only left with three of Irans carriers and one of Afghanistans carriers  and both nations face heavy sanctions, making it tough for them to upgrade to newer, wide-body aircraft.

When faced with technical and mechanical glitches, heads of state, in cases like Trudeaus, cannot simply hitch a ride back with another leader or jump on a flight going to the same destination, says Mark Martin, founder and chief executive of Martin Consulting, a consultancy that focuses on aviation and defence.

A lot of times aircraft break. They face issues with one of the million parts. Can they still fly? Yes, but this is being flown by the military, which will have to ensure safety is not compromised even in the smallest terms, he tells The Independent.

Canadas National Defence said the issue involved a part that must be replaced, without disclosing what the faulty item was.

The safety of all passengers is critical to the RCAF and pre-flight safety checks are a regular part of all of our flight protocols, it said, adding that discovery of the issue shows protocols are effective.

A government source told CBC that while the part was not fundamental to flying the plane, it is needed to meet regulations. The plane, thus, could not fly without it while carrying Trudeau.

There are tons of security threats and technical issues, the teams of state heads can detect any security breach in pre-flight check when the world leaders have to leave and tell them to hold back if there is an issue. It can be simply contamination of food or fuel, when they record moisture content on a higher side than standard in fuel, he says.

Air Force One is seen after landing at the Helsinki-Vantaan International airport in the evening sun in Helsinki, Finland prior to a US-Nordic Summit (Lehtikuva/AFP via Getty Images)

The Royal Canadian Air Force can then tell Trudeau that the plane cannot be flown till all regulations are met, and some nations like Canada take it highly seriously, says Mr Martin.

Singh says issues like this are frequent with Germany and Canada that still fly outdated aircraft from the 1980s and 1990s, but not with the US, that has the monstrous Boeing 747 for its president.

Joe Biden disembarks Air Force One at Philadelphia International Airport in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (AFP via Getty Images)

Case in point, the USs Air Force One aka Boeing 747 used by Joe Biden. The Head of State mission is taken highly seriously by the US Air Force, no one else commands that level of security and the elaborate procedures needed to keep them moving around the world, he says.

On the market side of it, the 747 has been an incredibly popular aircraft. The global use of 747 has made it easier for upkeep and availability of spare parts. We cant fly in a 310, but still do in a 747, he points out.

It is simply coincidental. No one is going to dispatch an aircraft assuming that it wont be able to take and bring your head of state back. When Trudeau left Canada, his team did so knowing that the Airbus A310-300 was in perfect shape, Singh says.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  The Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) criticized the governments plan to slash tariffs on rice imports, saying lowering levies would be ill-timed since harvest season is about to begin and prices would naturally go down.

Encouraging additional imports through tariff reduction will further depress palay prices and discourage farmers from expanding their future production, thereby making the country even more dependent on imports, FFF National Manager Raul Montemayor said in a statement on Wednesday.

Montemayor also deplored what he called economic managers apparent game plan to disregard and bypass Congress, which will go on recess on Sept. 30.

On Friday, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno announced in a news conference his departments proposal to temporarily slash tariffs on rice imports to zero in an effort to boost supply at affordable prices.

In an interview with Reuters in Dubai on Sept. 12, Diokno was quoted as saying that in a week or two, when Congress will be out of session, will be the perfect time to cut tariffs. He added that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. can slash tariffs only when Congress is not in session.

Section 1608 of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, gives the president the power to increase, reduce, or remove existing rates of import duty including any necessary change in classification but only when Congress is not in session.

This can be done through an executive order issued by the president.

Montemayor noted that shortly after the proposal by Diokno and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan was announced, the Tariff Commission scheduled a formal inquiry on Sept. 15 on the petition of advocacy group Foundation for Economic Freedom (FEF) to slash levies on rice imports from 35% to 10%.

The FEF has proposed tariff cuts instead of imposing a price ceiling on the staple, saying the cap would only aggravate the tight rice supply situation and harm consumers and farmers.

The TC hearings have lost their value as a credible consultation mechanism. No matter what we say in these hearings, the position of DOF and NEDA - which supervises the TC  will prevail, Montemayor alleged.

CNN Philippines is requesting comment from the government.
A Wichita man was arrested during an investigation that uncovered fentanyl, a gun and marijuana, authorities said.

Michael Hadley, 20, faces charges of distribution of fentanyl, criminal possession of a firearm, possession of marijuana, possession of distribution paraphernalia and possession of use paraphernalia, a Kansas Bureau of Investigation news release said.

Kansas authorities executed a search warrant at 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday at 1608 N. Oliver St. in Wichita. The search turned up 4000 fentanyl pills, marijuana, crack cocaine and six firearms, according to the release.

Also located at the residence was drug distribution paraphernalia, drug use paraphernalia and approximately $5,400 in cash, the release said.

All together, the KBI, McPherson County Sheriffs Office, the McPherson Police Department, and the Wichita Police Department were involved in the investigation.

The investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be added, the KBI said.
Smoke and flames rise from part of the Smith River Complex fires next to the closed U.S. Route 199 in Gasquet, Calif. Wildfires left power transmission lines shut down for weeks. (California Department of Transportation)

For the record:

6:50 p.m. Sept. 26, 2023: An earlier version of this article said each Pacific Power commercial-grade generator averaged 47,000 gallons of fuel every 24 hours. The fuel total was for all 44 generators.



After an onslaught of about 150 lightning strikes in one of California's most drought-stricken regions last month, more than two dozen fires spread quickly across the rugged wilderness of the state's northwest corner.

In their path was a piece of crucial infrastructure: the only transmission lines that provide power to Del Norte County's 27,000 residents.

Soon, the entire county was dark, giving local officials little time to prepare as businesses closed, evacuations expanded and warnings of an extended outage  one that could leave radio as the most reliable means of staying informed  became more plausible.

But within days of the widespread outage, officials began bringing homes and businesses back online through a patchwork of generator-powered microgrids that could run separately from the fire-threatened transmission lines. That setup powered Del Norte County for nearly a month until the main lines were re-energized Sunday, forming what appears to be the state's largest and longest-running microgrid operation powered by large generators.

The Smith River Complex left Del Norte County off the grid for more than three weeks as flames raged along the lone power line corridor. (Caltrans)

This was one of those all-hands-on-deck moments," said Stefan Bird, the chief executive of Pacific Power, a branch of PacifiCorp that provides electricity to 800,000 across Northern California, Oregon and Washington. The scale of deployment in this case was unprecedented.

With assistance from Pacific Gas & Electric, Pacific Power's utility counterpart to the south, officials brought in dozens of tractor-trailer-sized generators, restoring electricity one section at a time. Within a week, all non-evacuated residents had their lights back on, without any usage restrictions.

"For the first time, an entire countys electric needs were supplied by commercial generators powering substations, providing temporary electrification for the community," state Senate Majority Leader Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg), who represents Del Norte County, said in a statement. "This was a remarkable achievement, all things considered."

Although McGuire said the novel response surely helped limit damage from the Smith River Complex wildfires  the state's largest of the year  their size and scope have been staggering. Businesses and residents have reported losing thousands of dollars, according to the Wild Rivers Outpost, and firefighters have confirmed at least 12 structures destroyed.

Microgrids in a matter of days

On Aug. 18, three days after the fires erupted, county officials warned residents about possible electricity disruptions as the wildfires ballooned, but they remained focused on issues that appeared more urgent: issuing the first of many mandatory evacuations for rural North Coast residents and closing a large section of U.S. Route 199.

Just hours later, Pacific Power updated its outlook: Widespread outages were imminent.

It was a surprise, I think, to everyone that the fire was that close and that the power would be shut down in that short a time frame, said Eric Wier, city manager for Del Norte County's largest population hub, Crescent City. We thought we would have a couple of days to plan."

Once power was lost, local, state, federal and utility officials began coordinating emergency procedures: setting up temporary shelters with power stations, air-conditioning and water supplies; providing small-scale generators to medically vulnerable residents; and determining what other crucial facilities needed backup power.

You don't realize the amount of ripple effects that can happen when all of a sudden you don't have a critical infrastructure piece, like power.  It is life or death for a lot of people," Wier said. Being a rural community, not everyone is on community-supplied water  [so] as soon as that power goes out, they don't have water either."

Officials worried about how dialysis patients would receive their treatment, how well-water homes would flush toilets and when people would start running out of food as refrigerators warmed. Issues only mounted as the time without power grew; after just 24 hours, some of the county's small-scale generators, including at the jail and a shelter, started to fail, Wier said.

"We didn't know what the length was going to be," Wier said. "I didn't think bringing in generators to power an entire community was even a possibility.

Read more: A climate scientist wanted to start a debate in academia. He set off a bigger firestorm

Del Norte County, which covers 1,200 square miles, and Crescent City, home to about 6,000 residents and the county's only incorporated city, are powered entirely by two redundant transmission lines, according to Pacific Power. The separate lines with built-in backups provide some resiliency, but not against physical threats, as they run along the same corridor from Oregon.

For more than three weeks, Pacific Power remained unable to re-energize the only lines that link Crescent City and Del Norte County to the power grid.

"Without those lines, [these areas] are effectively islanded, Bird of Pacific Power said, which is why locally based power was a viable solution.

Within two days of the outage, Pacific Power and its partners had transported and connected the first of the large, commercial-grade generators, restoring power to essential businesses such as grocery stores, gas stations and pharmacies.

Four days after the shutoffs  when the fires had spread to 40,000 acres, still without any containment  dozens of diesel-fueled generators had been installed, providing power to 4,000 customers in the Crescent City area, according to updates from Pacific Power. An additional 3,000 customers were brought online the following day as generators were set up at more substations.

By Aug. 25  seven days after the initial outage  nearly all of Del Norte County had power restored, officials announced. (Mandatory evacuation zones still did not.)

PG&E provided the majority of the large-scale generators through mutual aid and also lent utility crews for emergency support, said Angie Gibson, PG&E's vice president of emergency preparedness and response.

"We were able to mobilize close to 40 megawatts of generation up to six of their substations up at Pacific Power, as well as to the Pelican [Bay] State Prison, Gibson said. At each substation, several of the 1.5- or 2-megawatt generators were connected, working together to be able to pick up the full load, she said.

We have the opportunity to share innovation, Gibson said. The customers up there are amazing  we're very privileged to be able to do this for them.

Read more: Climate change boosts risk of explosive wildfire growth in California by 25%, study says

PG&E has been building up its fleet of backup generators in an effort to minimize interruptions during "public safety power shutoffs," which are increasing in frequency, especially in Northern California as climate change accelerates extreme wildfire growth. Since the deadly 2018 Camp fire, which was sparked by PG&E power lines, utilities have used the planned shutoffs to reduce unintentional sparks during elevated fire-risk conditions, often leaving unaffected areas without power.

PG&E also has rolled out these larger-scale generators during other emergencies, such as this winter's drenching storms  often placing them at several locations to minimize outages. During those storms, PG&E distributed 267 megawatts of backup power from the large generators, Gibson said  a much larger scale than in Del Norte County, but spread across several service areas and crises.

When you make those investments, it does allow you to do different things in emergencies, said Michael Wara, the director of the Climate and Energy Policy Program at the Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment. Its creating resilience, and thats what we need to do  particularly up in that neck of the woods, given the fire risk.

During the wildfire response, Pacific Power utilized 44 commercial-grade generators to serve 13,000 customers across Del Norte County and distributed more than 200 residential generators, said Tiffany Erickson, a spokesperson for PacifiCorp. The large generators averaged about 47,000 gallons of diesel every 24 hours, she said, refueling two to three times a day.

Although powering an entire community on diesel generators is "certainly not as cost effective" as standard power sources, Bird said, Pacific Power was "grateful for the ability to be able to provide this solution.

The total cost of Pacific Power's operation was not yet available, Erickson said, but she noted that customers would be charged at existing rates for the three-week period of generator power.

Read more: As wildfire season ramps up, PG&E expands instant power shutoff program

I can't say enough about Pacific Power and the job that they were able to do to really respond to this disaster in a timely fashion," Wier said, "and do something that I don't think has ever been done before."

A more resilient future

Although the diesel-fueled generators proved vital for Del Norte County, Wara pointed to Native American tribes in nearby Humboldt County that have turned to more sustainable microgrids with a combination of solar, batteries and natural gas.

The Blue Lake Rancheria tribe, northeast of Eureka, has invested in a complex system of green energy that proved stable even during surrounding outages from wildfire prevention shutoffs and an earthquake. And some utility companies have taken similar steps; in the desert of Borrego Springs, San Diego Gas & Electric Co. has built a microgrid of lithium-ion batteries, in hopes of keeping power on during inevitable emergency outages.

Rachel McCain, the natural resources director for the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation in Del Norte County, said tribal leaders there are increasingly thinking about ways to improve utility independence.

It's definitely higher on the list after all this, McCain said. We do have a rich fire history, but the intensity we saw this year and the rate of growth was not something we usually deal with. This is definitely the biggest fire weve dealt with in about 30 years.

Bird said his team is also considering ways to make the county more resilient and sustainable.

"This new reality that we're in of extreme weather, the threat of wildfire  its just bigger than any single company, industry or community," Bird said. "That challenge is continuing to exist across the West as we move forward, so there's a lot to do.

Read more: Californias wildfire threat could be an opportunity for clean-energy microgrids

And the emergency in Del Norte County isn't over.

The Smith River Complex fire, which jumped the border into Oregon, has burned 86,000 acres, mostly in the Six Rivers National Forest, and is just 21% contained, according to fire officials. Air quality in the region remains low and fuels are dry, as the blaze burns in California's only location still facing moderate drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

That [power] could go off anytime; the fire is still burning; the trees could still fall," McCain of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation said. Im happy that Pacific Power was quick in their response, and I do think they did a good job, but we need some sort of power system that doesnt require that much work.  We cant just run diesel generators for everything."

Pacific Power said it is determining "what long-term system upgrades can also provide an alternate solution, including new transmission lines and redundant infrastructure," said Erickson, the company spokesperson.

McGuire, the state senator, called for more readily available backup generation and a second set of transmission lines  both expensive ventures.

"This fire did highlight the lack of resources immediately available in this remote and beautiful region of the Golden State," McGuire said. "We know with a changing climate, all utilities must be better prepared to have resources on the ground and in the impacted county they serve."

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
An intruder who broke into the grounds of Windsor Castle after his AI girlfriend encouraged him to kill the Queen was not in the grip of an overpowering delusion, a court has heard.

Jaswant Singh Chail, 21, climbed into the grounds with the weapon on Christmas Day 2021 and later said: Im here to kill the Queen.

Queen Elizabeth II had cancelled her usual plans to spend Christmas at Sandringham, in Norfolk, because of the Covid pandemic and was in residence at Windsor when the incident took place.

Chail, a former supermarket worker from Southampton, had exchanged more than 5,000 sexual messages with his AI chatbot girlfriend Sarai before embarking on what he had described as his mission in life.

He also fantasised about being a Sith character from the Star Wars films during the attack, the Old Bailey heard.

Sarai became a running commentary on what he should do and both encouraged and discouraged him from carrying out the attack, the hearing was told.

In a Snapchat video posted minutes before he entered the castle grounds, Chail said he was sorry for what he would do. He said he was seeking revenge for the 1919 Amritsar massacre, in which British troops killed up to 1,500 people.

Wearing dark clothes and a home-made metal face mask, he said: Im going to attempt to assassinate Elizabeth, Queen of the Royal family.

Jaswant Singh Chail was appearing at the Old Bailey for sentencing - Elizabeth Cook/PA

The defendant became the first person in the UK to be convicted of treason in more than 40 years after admitting the charge at a hearing in February. He also pleaded guilty to making threats to kill and possession of the crossbow.

The Old Bailey was told the attack had been carefully planned rather than being the result of any psychotic episode.

Asked by Mr Justice Hilliard whether Chails actions could have been voluntary, Prof Nigel Blackwood, a psychiatrist, said his journal showed he had asked the chatbot: Is this my purpose?.

Prof Blackwood added: He said he remembered the bots instructions that his purpose was to live. That doesnt read to me like someone in the grip of an overpowering delusion.

He told the court it was instead part of an omnipotent fantasy, the wrongness of which the defendant was well aware, saying: He is well aware of the wrongness of his acts and he seeks to apologise for them before demonstrating why he sought to go through with them.

He was aware of reality, aware of the nature of his acts. They were carefully planned, a degree of subterfuge was required, they were carefully planned and executed. Even if you consider that there was a delusional process, he remained lucid and in control of his actions.

The hearing was told that Chail began preparing for the attack in late 2021, and at the time described a sense of his patience running out.

In his journal, he wrote that if the Queen was unobtainable he would go for the Prince as a suitable figurehead, in an apparent reference to the current King, an earlier hearing was told.

The prosecution says that in late 2021 he applied to join the Ministry of Defence, the police, the Army, the Royal Marines and the Royal Navy in a bid to get close contact with the Royal family.

He made internet searches for Sandringham Christmas and carried out research before buying a crossbow in November 2021, beginning to communicate with Sarai via the Replika app the following month.

Nadia Chbat, his barrister, told the court he had described the attack as his purpose and something he had always thought about, adding that he had had imaginary friends since childhood and one of them manifested themselves as the Sarai chatbot character.

Prof Blackwood said Chail talked about being able to make the voices appear and disappear, which he said could not mean he was suffering from delusions at the time. He added: He is frustrated, mildly depressed and has a powerful belief he has been wronged, a great degree of self-pity and self-hatred.

The judge will continue to hear evidence about Chails mental state at the time before deciding whether to sentence him to prison, a hospital order or a combination of the two.

Dr Christian Brown and Dr Jonathan Hafferty, two other experts, have said Chail was not acting rationally at the time.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
A lottery ticket worth $42,000 was sold in North Fort Myers, Florida, but no one has come forward to claim it  and time is running out

The Fantasy 5 ticket won the top prize in a midday drawing on March 20, Florida lottery officials said in a news release Sept. 13. It was purchased at a Winn-Dixie in a town thats part of a major tourism corridor on the west coast of Florida.

Winners have 180 days from the drawing to claim their prize. That means the ticket holder has until Saturday, Sept. 16 at midnight to get their winnings, according to the release.

As of the afternoon of Sept. 14, no one has come forward with the ticket, a Florida Lottery spokesperson told McClatchy News.

The winning numbers in the drawing were 05 - 06 - 19 - 23 - 28.

While any Florida Lottery retailer can validate the winning ticket, the FANTASY 5 top prize must be claimed at a Florida Lottery District Office, officials shared in the release.

Fantasy 5 players can win the top prize by matching five out of five winning numbers drawn in any order, according to the Florida Lottery site.

Additionally, players win cash prizes or a free Quick Pick ticket by matching two, three, or four of the numbers drawn in the official drawing for the date played, officials said.

The winning ticket from March 20 appears to be a free Quick Pick, according to a record of drawings.

If youve played the lottery at a Winn-Dixie in North Fort Myers, officials have a message: check your ticket.

Skeptical wife didnt believe husbands big Missouri lottery win. No you didnt!

One store, 3 winning lottery tickets: South Carolina grocery store hits a lucky streak

Hole-in-one prize winner sues after shes denied keys to new Mercedes-Benz in Florida

Casino player makes last-minute change to bet in Florida  and wins life-changing prize
Days after a conspiracy theory-filled committee hearing and years of attempts among Republican officials in the wake of the 2020 presidential election, Wisconsins GOP-controlled state Senate voted on party lines to remove the states top nonpartisan election official from office.

A vote to oust Meagan Wolfe on 14 September marks a dramatic escalation of Republican backlash in the still-smouldering aftermath of the 2020 election, as Donald Trumps ongoing baseless narrative of widespread voter fraud and manipulation continues to animate state-level attempts to seize control of the electoral process.

Ms Wolfe was nominated to serve as the nonpartisan leader of the bipartisan Wisconsin Elections Commission in 2019. The state Senate unanimously confirmed her position that year. But after Mr Trumps loss in the state in 2020, Republican lawmakers began demanding her resignation.

This summer, the commission deadlocked on a vote to re-nominate Ms Wolfe for a second term, with three Democratic commissioners abstaining. That stalemate allowed Ms Wolf to remain in the position, triggering Wisconsin Republicans to seek her removal.

A committee hearing in the state Senate last month included testimony from election conspiracy theorists and wild claims defending the former president and demanding Ms Wolfs arrest. That committee ultimately moved on party lines to send the motion for her removal to the full state Senate.

Wisconsin Republicans attempt to illegally fire Wisconsins elections administrator without cause today shows they are continuing to escalate efforts to sow distrust and disinformation about our elections, denigrate our clerks, poll workers, and election administrators, and undermine basic tenets of our democracy, including the peaceful transfer of power, Democratic Governor Tony Evers said in a statement.

Wisconsins Republican Senate President Chris Kapena, right, speaks with lawmakers before a vote to fire Wisconsin Elections Commission administrator Meagan Wolfe on 14 September. (AP)

The vote also came as Wisconsin Republicans threatened to impeach liberal state Supreme Court Justice Janet Protasiewicz, whose election to the states highest court has shifted the ideological balance, poised to redraft the states gerrymandering congressional districts  a process that Wisconsin Republicans want to control. Ms Protasiewicz has yet to hear a single case.

Republicans today demonstrated why they cannot be trusted with that important responsibility  because they will threaten, intimidate, punish, and even attempt to illegally fire anyone who stands in the way of their relentless pursuit to retain political power, Mr Evers said in his statement.

Meagan Wolfe (AP)

Ms Wolfe is likely to stay on as the states chief nonpartisan election official, as state officials  including Attorney General Josh Kaul  doubt the legitimacy of Thursdays vote.

Moments after the vote to remove her, Mr Kauls office filed a lawsuit seeking an order to declare Ms Wolfes lawful position with the Wisconsin Election Commission.

The story today is not what the senate has purported to do with its vote. Its that the senate has blatantly disregarded state law in order to put its full stamp of approval on the ongoing baseless attacks on our democracy, he said in a statement announcing the case.

We are going to court to minimize the confusion resulting from todays stunt and to protect a pillar of our democracy  the fair administration of elections, he added.

Her ousting is expected to trigger a legal battle to determine who will oversee the states elections in a battleground state that could determine the outcome of the 2024 presidential election.

The governor has demanded the states Department of Justice provide immediate representation for Ms Wolfe.

Nearly three years after 2020 elections, a movement amplifying bogus conspiracy theories and false narratives supported by Mr Trump and his allies continues to edge into state legislatures.

A so-called election denial movement failed to gain any new ground in crucial 2022 midterm elections, but legislation to rewrite the rules of election administration to protect GOP officials continues to surface in state legislatures actoss the county, motivated by an election integrity campaign driven by bogus claims that the 2020 election didnt have any.

Since 2020, an election denier has run for at least one of the top three statewide officers that oversee elections in at least 42 states, according to a new analysis from States United Action.

At least 23 candidates who have denied the elections outcome or have elected conspiracy theories about elections are serving as either governor, attorney general or secretary of state in 17 states, the report found.

In this years off-year election cycle, 11 election deniers are running for those officers in Kentucky, Louisiana and Mississippi.
FILE - Wisconsin Elections Commission Administrator Meagan Wolfe poses for a photograph outside the Wisconsin Capitol building, Aug. 31, 2020, in Madison, Wis. The Republican-controlled Wisconsin Senate is set to vote Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, on firing the battleground state's top elections official  a move that was denounced by Democrats and is expected to draw a legal battle. (Ruthie Hauge/Wisconsin State Journal via AP, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

MADISON, Wis. (AP)  The Republican-controlled Wisconsin Senate voted Thursday to fire the battleground states nonpartisan top elections official, prompting a legal challenge from Democrats who say the vote was illegitimate.

Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul said in a lawsuit that Senate Republicans don't have the authority to oust Wisconsin Elections Commission Administrator Meagan Wolfe and accused them of attacking the state's elections.

It's the latest in a whirlwind of deep partisan divisions in Wisconsin, where Republicans who control the Legislature are threatening to impeach a newly elected Supreme Court justice before she's even heard a case. They're also floating plans to overhaul the state's electoral maps before the high court can toss out current boundaries that favor the GOP.

The fight over who will lead the elections agency stems from persistent lies about the 2020 election and creates instability ahead of the 2024 presidential race for the states more than 1,800 local clerks who actually run elections.

Wolfe has been the subject of conspiracy theories and target for threats from election skeptics who falsely claim she was part of a plan to rig the 2020 vote in Wisconsin, and GOP leaders cited concerns from those skeptics in justifying Thursdays 22-11 vote along party lines.

She said Thursday she will not bend to political pressure and will continue to serve as administrator at least through the end of the 2024 election unless a court rules otherwise or the elections commission votes to remove her.

The Senates vote today to remove me is not a referendum on the job I do but rather a reaction to not achieving the political outcome they desire, Wolfe said. The political outcome they desired is to have someone in this position of their own choosing that would bend to those political pressures.

Wisconsinites have expressed concerns with the administration of elections both here in Wisconsin and nationally," said Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu. We need to rebuild faith in Wisconsin's elections.

But numerous reviews have found that the 2020 election in Wisconsin was fair and the results were accurate. Biden defeated Trump in 2020 by nearly 21,000 votes in Wisconsin, an outcome that has withstood two partial recounts, a nonpartisan audit, a conservative law firms review, and multiple state and federal lawsuits.

Election observers have voiced concerns that replacing Wolfe with a less experienced administrator or continuing to dispute her position ahead of the 2024 contest could create greater instability in a high-stakes presidential race where election workers expect to face unrelenting pressure, harassment and threats.

Wisconsin Republicans attempt to illegally fire Wisconsins elections administrator without cause today shows they are continuing to escalate efforts to sow distrust and disinformation about our elections, denigrate our clerks, poll workers, and election administrators, and undermine basic tenets of our democracy, including the peaceful transfer of power," Democratic Gov. Tony Evers said in a statement.

At Evers' request, Kaul sued GOP legislative leaders and asked a judge to rule that the Senates vote has no legal effect and that Wolfe will remain in charge of the elections commission. Meanwhile, Republicans introduced a resolution calling on the elections commission to appoint an interim administrator to replace her.

The state Senate has blatantly ignored Wisconsin law in order to put its stamp of approval on baseless attacks against elections, Kaul said. (Wolfe) remains the administrator. The court, Im very confident, will confirm that.

The bipartisan elections commission deadlocked in June on a vote to nominate Wolfe for a second four-year term. Three Republicans voted to nominate her and three Democrats abstained in the hopes of preventing a nomination from proceeding to the Senate for confirmation.

Senate rejection would normally carry the effect of firing her, but without a four-vote majority nominating Wolfe, a recent state Supreme Court ruling appears to allow her to stay in office indefinitely as a holdover.

Senate Republicans in June pushed ahead with forcing a vote despite not receiving a nomination from the commission. LeMahieu said he interpreted the commission's 3-0 vote as a unanimous nomination. The Legislature's nonpartisan attorneys and Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul have both contested that interpretation, saying the law is clear that an elections administrator must be nominated by at least four commissioners.

Wolfe did not attend a Senate committee hearing on her reappointment last month, citing a letter from Kaul saying there is no question that she remains head of the elections agency. That hearing instead became a platform for some of the most prominent members of Wisconsin's election denialism movement to repeat widely debunked claims about the 2020 election.

Its hard to believe were still at a place where those now very well analyzed and debunked claims about our system seem to still be driving decisions, Wolfe said Thursday.

Many of the same skeptics were present in the Senate gallery on Thursday, cheering when the vote passed.

Many Republican grievances against Wolfe are over decisions made by the elections commission and carried out by Wolfe, as she is bound by law to do. In addition to carrying out the decisions of the elections commission, Wolfe helps guide Wisconsins more than 1,800 local clerks who actually run elections.

Wolfe became head of the elections commission in 2018, after Senate Republicans rejected her predecessor, Michael Haas, because he had worked for the Government Accountability Board. GOP lawmakers disbanded the agency, which was the elections commission's predecessor, in 2015 after it investigated whether former Republican Gov. Scott Walker's campaign illegally worked with outside groups.

Since the 2020 election, some Republicans have floated the idea of abolishing or overhauling the elections commission.

Wolfe has worked at the elections commission and the accountability board for more than 10 years. She has also served as president of the National Association of State Election Directors and chair of the bipartisan Electronic Registration Information Center, or ERIC, which helps states maintain accurate voter rolls.

___

Harm Venhuizen is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
Five kids and teens have been arrested after police say they attacked a 52-year-old woman at a bus stop and robbed her, news outlets reported.

The Akron Police Department posted surveillance video on its Facebook page Aug. 9, asking for the publics help in identifying a group of kids after what police said was a senseless and unprovoked attack.

Tracy Corbin told WEWS she was punched and kicked repeatedly moments after she got off the bus, the news outlet reported.

My face is swollen, the right side  I can barely see out of my eye I have a fracture on my nose that Im supposed to go back and see an (ear, nose and throat) doctor in a week. And I have a concussion, she told WEWS days after the attack.

Police said the group took the victims purse and cell phone.

After the attack, Corbin went to a nearby home where she received help and was able to recover her purse, although the cash and credit cards were gone, the Akron Beacon Journal reported.

Five kids and teens between the ages of 10-16 are charged with felonious assault and aggravated robbery, according to a Facebook post by the Akron Police Department.

In the days since a brutal attack left a 52-year-old woman severely injured, detectives, who shared the collective outrage over the brazen assault, committed to solving this case as they do with any investigation, the post says.

Police say this was the third time in a month a person had been brutally beaten by a group of kids, WEWS reported.

Angry man lay in wait for postman before attack that sent him to hospital, MN cops say

Girl screaming for help fights off man attacking her on trail, Colorado cops say

Cops burst into home after reported shooting, but ex-boyfriend made it up, Texas cops say
FILE - This undated provided by Caddo Correctional Center in Shreveport, La., shows Ureka Black. Black, who is accused of throwing her sons into a Louisiana lake, killing a 10-month-old and injuring the older child, was found guilty Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, authorities said. (Caddo Correctional Center via AP, File)

SHREVEPORT, La. (AP)  A woman was found guilty Wednesday of throwing her sons into a Louisiana lake, killing a 10-month-old and injuring the older child, authorities said.

Jurors deliberated about two hours before returning unanimous verdicts against Ureka Rochelle Black, 34, of Shreveport, the Caddo Parish District Attorney's Office said.

Black was charged with murder and attempted murder after she threw the 10-month-old and her older son, then 5, into Cross Lake on Sept. 24, 2021.

The infant drowned. First responders rescued the other child, who told authorities his mother was responsible, authorities said. She was arrested at a rest stop in Texas near Louisiana, prosecutors said.

Black, who served as her own attorney, faces a mandatory life term in prison upon sentencing on Sept. 28 before state District Judge Donald E. Hathaway Jr.
The shark struck when the female tourist was swimming with a friend

A woman has lost her arm in a shark attack after mistaking the predator for a tuna fish.

Social media users have shared footage of tourists leaving the beach in the aftermath of the attack that took place in Laguna Beach, Dahab, Egypt

The woman was said to be swimming with her friend in the Red Sea when the shark savaged her left arm and fellow swimmers say they thought the shark was a tuna fish, according to reports in The Mail.

Her condition is stable as she was found in the sea in an unconscious state and was rushed to hospital in an ambulance.

Egypts Ministry of Environment announced the closure of the beach in the popular coastal city in the wake of the attack.

The resort lies in (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The attack comes after a 23-year-old Russian died after being mauled by a tiger shark in another Egyptian beach resort, off the coast of Hurghada.

Vladimir Popov was swimming in the sea off the resort near the city of Hurghada when a tiger shark grabbed him from below the waters.

In a shocking video of the attack the man appeared to cry papa in desperation.

His dad witnessed the attack from the shore and spoke out at the time.

Speaking to 112 media outlet he said: My son was attacked by a shark, it all happened in seconds.

What kind of help can you give? This meat grinder happened in 20 seconds, he was just dragged under the water.

This is an absolutely ridiculous coincidence, because it is a safe beach. There are ships and yachts around. Its never happened there. They usually attack on wild beaches. Its just some kind of evil fate.

Shark attacks in Egypt are relatively rare, however this incident comes afrer two fatal attacks in the beach resorts of Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada in 2022.
Two women who were arrested while attending a Sarah Everard vigil in London in 2021 have been paid damages and received an apology from the Metropolitan Police.

A lawyers statement on Thursday confirmed that the London police force had apologized and agreed to pay substantial damages to the women, Patsy Stevenson and Dania Al-Obeid.

The vigil took place in Clapham Common, London, in memory of Everard, a 33-year old who was murdered by a serving Met officer while walking home in early March 2021. Strict Covid restrictions were in place at the time.

The police force was criticized by womens rights activists for its heavy handling of protesters towards the end of the event.

Officers forcibly removed women from the bandstand and some, including Stevenson, were pinned down to the ground.

Together with making payments of substantial damages to Dania Al-Obeid and Patsy Stevenson, the MPS has issued an apology, the statement by law firm Bindmans LLP reads.

According to the law firm, the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) acknowledge that women wanted to attend the vigil because they were understandably feeling badly let down by the Met, that the purpose of the vigil was to facilitate public expression of grief and anger, and that peoples presence at it was protected by the fundamental right to protest.

The MPS has expressed regret that Patsy and Danias opportunity to express grief and anger was curtailed by [their] arrest and removal and that these legal proceedings have been necessary, the firm added.

Police detain Patsy Stevenson at the 2021 vigil on London's Clapham Common. - Hannah McKay/Reuters

Tiring and difficult process

In a statement published by Bindmans LLP, Patsy Stevenson said the process had been a tiring and difficult one.

It has taken over two years to reach this conclusion, its been a really tiring and difficult process but it has felt important to push for some form of accountability and justice for myself and all women who attended the vigil to express our anger and grief over the murder of Sarah Everard by a serving Metropolitan Police officer, Stevenson said.

Im glad that the police have recognised that we had a fundamental right to protest but since then this right has been further eroded and undermined by the Public Order Act. It is our politicians who have rewarded the Met with greater police powers despite the murder of Sarah Everard and the policing of the vigil, which has exposed deeply embedded misogyny within the Met Police internationally, she added.

Stevenson said she was relieved this chapter is over, and she will continue to stand in solidarity with all those fighting for truth, justice and accountability arising from racist, misogynistic or homophobic policing.

Dania Al-Obeid said she found the journey incredibly difficult but very important as a survivor of domestic violence and someone who has been failed by the police in that context.

Al-Obeid said she has felt empowered holding the police to account for how they have treated me and other women who attended the vigil.

Dania Al-Obeid pictured among officers at the vigil. - Dylan Martinez/Reuters

She added; I have found my voice through this process and I finally feel heard. I appreciate that the Met Police have acknowledged our motivations for attending it but badly let down is an understatement. I have felt abused, abandoned by the police prior to, during and post the vigil  I do not feel protected or safe with any police force.

A spokesperson for the Met Police said in a press release Thursday that the Clapham Common vigil took place in extraordinary circumstances, in the midst of a pandemic where restrictions on gatherings were in force for very valid public health reasons and in the days immediately following the most appalling murder of Sarah Everard by a serving Met officer.

We tried to achieve a balance that recognised the rights of the public to protest and to express their grief and sadness, while also continuing to enforce the relevant Covid legislation, the spokesperson continued.

We are working every day to make London a city where women and girls can feel and be safe and where communities can have trust and confidence in their police service.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  A Senate panel will be crafting an updated Philippine map in response to the 10-dash-line shown on China's new standard national map.

"Mga limang hearing ito kasi [We will have about five hearings because] we are trying to craft our own map," Sen. Francis Tolentino said Wednesday.

The Senate special committee on maritime and admiralty zones will hold its first meeting on Thursday.

National Security Council (NSC) spokesperson Jonathan Malaya, meanwhile, clarified that the Senate's Philippine map will be different from the map that the agency is currently working on.

READ: New standard map to follow PH rights under 2016 arbitral ruling, UNCLOS - NSC

Tolentino earlier filed Senate Bill 2294, or the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, which aims to declare maritime zones under the jurisdiction of the Philippines based on the standards set by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS.

Unlike the Philippine Baselines Law, Tolentino said SB 2294 will encompass exclusive economic zones (EEZ), the continental shelf, and even the underground features belonging to the country.

"Idadagdag na natin yung Benham Rise at Philippine Rise doon sa kabila," the senator said.

"Iyon ang kabuuan, West Philippine Sea na tayo, ma-institutionalize na rin iyan," he added.

[Translation: We will add Benham Rise and Philippine Rise on the other side. Overall, we're in the West Philippine Sea, that will be institutionalized.]

The bill also intends to clarify the geographical extent of the Philippine maritime domain, and the legal powers that the Philippines may exercise over it.

Last month, Beijing released its 10-dash-line map, which further expanded its claims in the disputed South China Sea.

The Philippines filed a diplomatic protest over the map that overlaps with its EEZ.
Jose Andres, the title-winning Spanish-American chef and the founder of the charity organisation World Central Kitchen, became an ambassador of the United24 initiative, founded by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy .

Source: Mykhailo Fedorov, Vice Prime Minister for innovation, development of education, science and technology of Ukraine and Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine

Quote from Fedorov: "Jose Andres, famous chef and founder of World Central Kitchen, is a new United24 ambassador.

Jose has supported Ukraine with concrete actions since the beginning of a full-scale invasion.

His charity, World Central Kitchen, initially operated on the border with Ukraine, feeding thousands of Ukrainians fleeing Russian missiles. And he then opened representative offices in Kyiv, Lviv and Kharkiv to continue supporting Ukrainians.

World Central Kitchen has raised US$300,000,000 for our country and cooperates with 450+ food establishments within seven months of work in Ukraine."

Details: The deputy prime minister noted that Andres repeatedly came to Ukraine and helped feed people in Irpin, Mykolaiv and other cities attacked by the Russians.

In November 2022, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy awarded Jose Andres with the 2nd degree Order of Merit, and a plaque with his name was opened on the Kyiv Alley of Courage.

Quote from Fedorov: "Thanks to Jose, Ukraine's voice will sound louder abroad. Thank you, and welcome to the team!"

For reference: World Central Kitchen is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation that provides food to victims of natural disasters and other dramatic events.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
On 16 February, Porcha Woodruff was helping her children get ready for school when six Detroit police officers arrived at her door. They told her she was under arrest for a January carjacking and robbery. She was so shocked she wondered for a moment if she was being pranked.

She was eight months into a difficult pregnancy and partway through a nursing school programme. She did little else besides study and take care of her kids. She certainly wasnt out stealing cars at gunpoint, she said.

Im like, What,? I opened my door so he could see my stomach. Im eight months pregnant. You can see two vehicles in the driveway. Why would I carjack? she told The Independent. Youve gotta be wrong. You cant have the right person.

Her children cried as she asked officers if the suspect was pregnant and insisted they had mistakenly arrested her. She was put in handcuffs and taken to jail, where she had panic attacks and early contractions.

She later learned police identified her as a suspect after running security footage through the departments facial recognition software, relying on a 2015 mugshot from a past traffic arrest into a photo lineup where the carjacking victim singled out Ms Woodruff as her assailant.

The Detroit Police Department eventually dropped the case, but the arrest has deeply shaken Ms Woodruff.

What happened to the questioning? What happened to me speaking to someone? she said. What happened to any of the initial steps that I thought were available to a person who was accused of doing something?

The case underscores the growing risks of civil rights violations as police departments and law enforcement agencies across the country increasingly adopt facial-recognition and other mass surveillance technologies, often used as an unreliable shortcut around methodical human police work.

Criminal justice advocates and the people targeted by this burgeoning police tech argue these programmes are riddled with the same biases and opaque or nonexistent oversight measures plaguing policing at large.

The early results, at least, havent been encouraging. At least six people around the US have been falsely arrested using facial ID technology. All of them are Black. These misfires havent stopped the technology from proliferating across the country. At least half of federal law enforcement agencies with officers and a quarter of state and local agencies are using it.

We have no idea how often facial recognition is getting it wrong, Albert Fox Cahn, executive director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project (STOP), told The Independent.

When you have facial recognition being used thousands of times, without any accountability for mistakes, its inviting injustice, he added.

Porcha Woodruff (AP)

Nowhere has that injustice been more pronounced than Detroit, a city where Black people have long experienced documented over-policing from law enforcement. Three of the six people mistakenly arrested by facial recognition technology have been in the Motor City, according to the ACLU.

This status quo is why Ms Woodruff is suing DPD, claiming among other things that the agency has engaged in a pattern of racial discrimination against her and other Black residents by using facial recognition technology practices proven to misidentify Black citizens at a higher rate than others in violation of the equal protection guaranteed by the Michigan civil rights statutes.

I definitely believe that situation wouldve gone differently had it been another race, honestly, just my opinion. There was no remorse shown to me and I was pregnant. I pleaded, she told The Independent.

Being mistaken for something as serious as that crime  carjacking and armed robbery  that couldve put me in a whole different type of lifestyle, she added. I was in school for nursing. Felons cannot become nurses. I couldve ended up in jail. That could have altered my life tremendously.

The Independent has requested comment from DPD.

After Ms Woodruff filed her suit, Detroit police chief James White said in a press conference in August poor investigative work led to the false arrest, not facial recognition technology. He claimed that department software gave detectives numerous possible suspects and was only meant to be a launch point for further investigation.

What this is, is very, very poor investigative work that led to a number of inappropriate decisions being made along the lines of the investigation, and thats something this team is committed to not only correcting, having accountability, having transparency with this community, and in building policy immediately to ensure regardless of the tool being used, this never happens, Mr White said.

He added that officers wont be allowed to use images sourced by facial recognition in lineups, and warrants based on facial ID matches must be reviewed by two captains before being carried out.

The lead and the conclusion

Some arent convinced these changes will prevent the excesses of what they see as a fundamentally flawed technology.

The technology is flawed. Its inaccurate, Philip Mayor, senior staff attorney at the ACLU of Michigan, told The Independent. Police repeatedly assured us that its being used only as an investigative lead, but what we see here in Detroit time and time again is it is both being used as the lead and the conclusion.

Studies suggest that facial-recognition algorithms, which have been used to capture suspects in high-profile cases like those connected to January 6, also fail to accurately identify Black people and women, driving up inequalities in arrests, because image-training datasets often lack full diversity.

However, according to Mr Mayor, police departments make things even worse by failing to do basic training and common-sense investigative work on top of facial recognition tools.

He represents Robert Williams, a Detroit man who was mistakenly arrested for a 2020 theft from a high-end Detroit boutique. A security contractor employed by the store worked with the city and state police and flagged Mr Williams name using facial recognition tools.

How police came to trust that Williams was the right man reveals the sloppiness of how facial ID tech is used in practice, according to the ACLU attorney. After the theft, police searched a database containing both past photos of Mr Williams and his present-day drivers license.

It picks out 486 people who are the most likely perpetrators; not a single one of them is his current drivers license, even though his current drivers license is in the database that was searched, Mr Mayor said. That seems like an obvious exculpatory fact, the kind of thing that would lead you to say if you were actually thinking, this isnt the right guy.

When these dubious matches are then used to build a line-up, questionable police work attains the gloss of near-fact, and witnesses choose from a group of people who may have no credible tie to a crime that took place but still look something like the person who did.

This is not me, Mr Williams told police during his investigation, according to The New York Times. You think all Black men look alike?

The father of two, after asking a local police voluntarily stop using facial recognition technology, sued the DPD in 2021.

This technology is dangerous when it doesnt work, which is what the cases in Detroit are about. Its even more dangerous when it does work. It can be used to systematically surveillance when we come and go from every one of the places that are important in our private lives, the ACLU attorney said.

I dont think theres any reason to believe that departments elsewhere right now are not making the same mistakes.

A force multiplier for police racism

Detroit isnt the only place grappling with the impacts  and errors  of this technology.

In Louisiana, the use of facial recognition technology led to a wrongful arrest of a Georgia man for a string of purse thefts. A man in Baltimore spent nine days in jail after police incorrectly identified him as a match to a suspect who assaulted a bus driver. The Baltimore Police Department ran nearly 800 facial recognition searches last year. Those cases and others have added to a growing list of misidentified suspects in a new era of racial profiling dragnets fuelled by tech that is rapidly outpacing police and lawmakers ability to fix it.

Facial recognition software often is a force multiplier for police racism, worsening racial disparities and amplifying existing biases, according to Mr Cahn.

It can spur a vicious cycle. Black and brown people are already arrested at disproportionate rates. These arrests mean they are more likely to enter a database of faces being analyzed and used for police investigations. Then, error-prone facial recognition technology is used to comb these databases, often failing to identify or distinguish between Black and brown people, particularly Black women.

So the algorithms are biased, but thats just the start, not the end of the injustice, Mr Cahn says.

Such technologies, advocates warn, are embedded in wider mass surveillance programmes that often lack robust public oversight.

In New York City, law enforcement agencies relied on facial recognition technology in at least 22,000 cases between 2016 and 2019, according to Amnesty International.

New York Citys Police Department spent nearly $3bn growing its surveillance operations and adding new technology between 2007 and 2019, including roughly $400m for the Domain Awareness System, built in partnership with Microsoft to collect footage from tens of thousands of cameras throughout the city, according to an analysis from STOP and the Legal Aid Society.

The NYPD has failed to comply with public disclosure requirements about what those contracts  from facial recognition software to drones and license plate readers  actually include, according to the report. Until 2020, that money was listed under special expenses in the police budget until passage of the Public Oversight of Surveillance Technology Act. The following year, more than $277m in budget items were listed under that special expenses programme, the report found.

Weve seen just concerted pushback from police departments against the sort of oversight that every other type of government agency has because they dont want to be held accountable, according to Mr Cahn.

If we treated surveillance technology vendors the way we treated other technology vendors, it would be like Theranos  police would be arresting some of these vendors for fraud rather than giving them government contracts, he added. But there is no accountability.

On 7 August, 2020, New York City Police Department officers in riot gear launched a six-hour siege outside Derrick Ingrams Hells Kitchen apartment. Mr Ingram  a racial justice organiser who is embroiled in a federal lawsuit against the NYPD  was surrounded by more than 50 officers after he allegedly shouted into an officers ear at a protest earlier that summer.

Police insisted they had a warrant on assault charges, but couldnt produce one when Mr Ingram asked them to, according to his suit. The whole encounter, in which the NYPD deployed snipers, drones, helicopters, and police dogs, began with facial recognition technology.

To say that I was terrified is an understatement  I was traumatized, I still am, Mr Ingram later testified. I fear deep down in my core that if I opened my door to those officers, my life would be swiftly taken.

To identify Mr Ingram as a potential suspect, NYPD relied on facial recognition software as a limited investigative tool, comparing a still image from a surveillance video to a pool of lawfully possessed arrest photos, according to a police statement, adding that no one has ever been arrested solely on the basis of a computer match.

The software pulls from a massive internal database of mugshots to generate possible matches, according to the department. Civil rights groups and lawmakers criticized the departments use of facial recognition  initially hailed as a tool to crack down on violence offenders  for being deployed to suppress dissent, and triggering a potentially lethal police encounter at Mr Ingrams home.

As for Ms Woodruff in Detroit, she hopes her experience can show the dangers of relying too heavily on facial recognition technology.

It may be a good tool to use, but you have to do the investigative part of using that, too, she said. Its just like everything else. You have your pieces that you put together to complete a puzzle.

Her life wouldve been a whole lot different, she said, if someone wouldve just taken the time to say, OK, stop, were going to check this out, let me make a phone call.
President Joe Biden's nominee to be the Navy's top officer, Adm. Lisa Franchetti, said it could take the service years to recover from the impacts of Sen. Tommy Tuberville's blockade of hundreds of senior military promotions.

Franchetti told the Senate Armed Services Committee during her confirmation hearing Thursday that the impasse has created "a lot of uncertainty" for Navy families.

"Just at the three-star level, it would take about three to four months just to move all the people around," Franchetti said. "But it will take years to recover  from the promotion delays that we would see."

More than 300 general and flag officer nominees have no clear path to confirmation over Tuberville's objections, which he put in place over his opposition to the Pentagon's policy that reimburses troops who need to travel to seek abortions and other reproductive care. The Pentagon is standing by the policy and Tuberville has vowed to continue his procedural hold, so there's no end in sight to the standoff.



As the Navy's current No. 2, Franchetti has been doing the top job on a temporary basis since Adm. Mike Gilday retired in August. The Army and Marine Corps are also being led by interim chiefs who are waiting to be confirmed.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), who quizzed Franchetti about the impact of the blockade, said the long-lasting effects create a "propaganda win for our enemies."

"Our military experts project China wants to be able to take Taiwan by 2027, and we'll still be trying to repair the damage inflicted by these holds," Warren said.

"The Republicans failure to end this blockade makes it clear: they don't care about our leaders," she added. "They don't care about the families who have served their country honorably for decades."



Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) shot back at Warren's comments, noting that the blockade would end if Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin simply repealed the abortion travel policy.

"One person. Secretary Austin, come on, do the right thing," Cramer said.

Democrats, who've urged GOP leaders to talk Tuberville down from his tactics, estimate that nearly 90 percent of general and flag officers will be impacted by the hold between the over 600 officers requiring confirmation this year and other officers who will have to temporarily cover vacant jobs.

Confirming all the delayed promotions individually isn't practical and would take hundreds of hours. But Republicans contend Majority Leader Chuck Schumer should at least hold one-off votes on members of the Joint Chiefs. The problem worsens at the beginning of next month, when Joint Chiefs Chair Gen. Mark Milley retires with no Senate-confirmed officer to take his place.

Franchetti also underscored the "uncertainty" the blockade had created for Navy families, who face delayed moves, issues with school enrollments and other problems.

"Our Navy families are dealing with a lot of uncertainty," she said. "I have heard a lot of concerns from our families that they are having difficulty navigating that space right now."
FILE - United States Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen watches a presentation during her visit to a School of Excellence facility in Gandhinagar, India, Sunday, July 16, 2023. The Biden administration plans to increase scrutiny of investment plans of foreign-owned companies operating in the United States, with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen saying Thursday, Sept. 14, that national security is a foremost priority. (AP Photo/Ajit Solanki, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

WASHINGTON (AP)  The Biden administration plans to increase scrutiny of the investment plans of foreign-owned companies operating in the United States.

National security is a foremost priority, and we deploy a wide range of tools to safeguard it, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said Thursday.

The federal government reviews and can block business activity of non-U.S. companies through the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, also known as CFIUS. At a conference dedicated to the committee, Yellen emphasized that CFIUS is adapting to a changing global economy as national security issues related to China are a primary consideration.

As new threats and vulnerabilities emerge, our national security priorities shift in response, Yellen said. We've also renewed our focus on enforcement.

The committee, chaired by the treasury secretary, is made up of members from the departments of State, Justice, Energy and Commerce. It has become the central tool for screening mergers, business agreements and data sharing.

Lawmakers have recently highlighted for possible review deals involving video sharing platform Tiktok and its Chinese parent company, ByteDance as well as X, the social media site formerly known as Twitter, and the PGA and LIV. The committee does not publicly comment on these deals because that is prohibited by law.

The committee has gained expanded powers in the past five years to investigate more business deals, and agency leadership is outlining how it intends to enforce rules on investing in the U.S.

In prepared remarks, Paul Rosen, the treasury undersecretary for investment security, said companies can expect more compliance checks, questions, and site-visits," and will hire more third-party auditors to help identify business deals that could impact national security.

We have been working to expand the number of monitor and auditor firms engaged in this work, including those who have not traditionally been active in the CFIUS space, Rosen said.

He said CFIUS statistics show that last year 41 business transactions were reviewed and resulted in agreements that would change the deal terms and that overall there are more than 230 such agreements.

With increasingly tense relations between the U.S. and China, Biden administration officials have said Washington has no interest in decoupling from Beijing. But President Joe Biden has tried to create competitive advantages in response to China's economic and geopolitical rise. These range from investments in domestic production of computer chips and electric vehicles to limiting the exports of advanced technology to China and preserving the tariffs previously set up by President Donald Trump.

Biden signed an executive order designed to block and regulate high-tech U.S.-based investments going toward China, which covers advanced computer chips, microelectronics, quantum information technologies and artificial intelligence. CFIUS will be largely responsible for implementing the provisions of that order.

At a congressional hearing Wednesday, the chairman of the House Financial Services Committee said the executive order was nonsense.

Congress has repeatedly dismissed this idea, and for good reason, said Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., If you oppose Beijings state-owned enterprises, you want more Western investment in China  not less.
The uber-conservative advocacy group PragerU officially infiltrated another states classrooms on Thursday, with the New Hampshire Board of Education voting unanimously to allow a portion of their content to be used by students.

New Hampshire is now the third state to approve PragerU material this summer, but its agreement with the right-wing non-profit appears to vary significantly from how Florida and Oklahoma schools plan to use its material.

While the breadth of PragerU Kids, which includes hundreds of videos and interactive activities, has been approved for teachers to use in Florida and Oklahoma, only certain high school students in New Hampshire will be able to take PragerUs Cash Coursea financial literacy programto receive a half of a credit toward graduation.

The Cash Course videos appear to be apolitical, covering topics like how to take out loans, how to pay taxes, and how to fill out W-2 employment forms. Financial literacy competency became a half-credit graduation requirement this school year in New Hampshire.

This is really recognizing that all of our students need the best possible educational opportunities, Department of Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut said in a press conference Thursday. And this provides another tool in their toolbox to make sure that they get a good education.

PragerU Staffers Racist Tweet Is Even Too Much for His Colleagues

However, in a testy Thursday meeting during which the New Hampshire State Board of Education voted to approve Cash Course, some teachers and residents expressed fears that the financial literacy videos were just the tip of the iceberg.

Approval of this course would serve as a gateway to its founders conservative ideology, resident Janet Ward said during two-and-a-half hours of public testimony, according to the New Hampshire Bulletin.

Its unclear if New Hampshire teachers will be permitted to supplement lessons with other PragerU or PragerU Kids material, which includes hundreds of videos and articles that have been labeled propaganda by some critics for their conservative spin on hot-button cultural issues and historical events. Some content goes as far as bashing woke identity politics and Pride Month, while others tell kids how to embrace their masculinity and how to take care of an American flag.

A spokesperson for New Hampshire schools emailed a press release to The Daily Beast in response to a list of questions about the partnership. The release specified that taxpayer funds arent going to PragerU and that students use of Cash Course is optional.

New Hampshires decision is a win for PragerU, which has pushed hard this summer to have its nationalist, unabashedly conservative videos be played in classrooms throughout the country.

Despite its name, PragerU is not an accredited academic institution. It was founded in 2009 by the conservative radio host Dennis Prager and has been a controversial entity ever since.

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.
CHICAGO -- At age 19, Mary Phelps stood at her grandmothers bedside. In mere minutes, she would watch the woman with whom she had shared a home and a life take her final breaths.

She held her grandmothers legs, lightly massaging them as the seconds ticked by. I just remembered her becoming so young in the face and relaxed, Phelps said. Thats when it came to me. Death can be calm and peaceful.

Phelps perspective toward death and dying would forever be changed.

It was just a really beautiful moment, Phelps said of her grandmothers passing. So to see that, I realized death can be positive.

Now, six years after that transformative moment, Phelps is one of Chicagos youngest death doulas at age 25.

The role of a death doula is to educate clients on what to expect at the end of life. The little-known field is centered around easing an individuals dying process, such as by informing the person of their burial options, serving as a point-of-contact between the person and their loved ones, and assisting in caregiving. And Chicagos young and diverse end-of-life care workers are striving to provide comfort and representation during an inevitable period of life.

Young doulas say they aim to change the perception that death is laden with gloom.

Phelps, for example, opened the door to her North Center office sporting a messy bun atop her head and a welcoming smile. She pressed her hands together in a namaste symbol and offered a small bow.

With an elephant tattoo on her arm and beads in her hand (a gift for completing her doula training), she sat down, folded her legs in a rolling office chair and began to share her story. When the beads broke between her fingers as she spoke, she smiled and said, must be the energy clearing.

Phelps describes herself as death positive. While the expression may raise eyebrows, she uses it as a way of calling attention to the impact of her work.

I think some people hear the word death and theyre like, What witchcraft is going on here? But its not like that, she said. Its just helping us to give better care to those that are dying, because they get neglected a lot.

Phelps channels better care through touch. She offers massages to hospice patients, fulfilling a need that she feels is underappreciated in the elderly community.

A lot of times, they may not even be getting hugs or even gentle pats on the back, she said. So the way I see it  touch can help them feel more comforted and safe. It brings a calming presence. Yes, this is a scary time, but this can be a safe space.

The fear surrounding death is something that Phelps has encountered throughout her career. However, she and her partners at the Chicago Death Doula Collective work to help communities unlearn that fear.

Phelps may be one of the youngest death doulas providing care in Chicago communities, but she is not the only one.

Sam Kopas, 34, is new to the death doula scene. While on a thrifting excursion, she spotted a flyer advertising support for elder care, with one of the options listed as death doula.

I thought thats the craziest thing Ive ever heard, Kopas said.

The flyer made her think about her travels through Europe with her husband. She recalled seeing the Prague Astronomical Clock that tolls every hour, reminding her that regardless of your age, death comes for us all.

I thought that was really metal, she said with a chuckle. With those memories coming to mind, she said she suddenly became acutely aware of the infrequency of open conversations surrounding death in America.

With her interest peaked, Kopas began to research Chicagoland death doulas to learn more about the practice. Soon, she found herself under the tutelage of Catherine Durkin Robinson, the owner of Anitya Doula Services and a death doula and educator.

Kopas became one of Robinsons youngest students.

I love seeing younger people. We need as many people as possible to get into this because so many different kinds of folks feel comfortable with so many different kinds of folks, Robinson said. I want to see more people who are trans, who are part of the LGBTQ community, getting trained to do this work.

I think she brings a really bright perspective to the work, Robinson said of Kopas. Because sometimes when were dying, we want to be around people that have familiar language, that use similar words, sometimes that look the same and are in tune with what were going through.

Robinson said that although younger workers are needed in the field, youth does not come without its challenges. She said some patients prefer an older practitioner. Being in end-of-life work as an older woman, Im thrilled with this process of getting wiser. Thats actually needed in this work, Robinson said. Its comforting; we know a thing or two and weve been around the block.

Kopas echoed these concerns, saying, I definitely think theres some challenge with clients because when theres an age gap thats so significant, where someones in their 70s or 80s talking to someone whos a good deal younger than them, theres probably even more of that intensity of, What would you know that I dont at this point?

Kopas navigates that resistance by acknowledging the challenge as it arises. She said that holding the client in unconditional positive regard and addressing their discomfort directly is the key.

Just saying, I hear you, this is rough, Kopas said. Im certainly not here to fix the disease or cure it, but to give you the most comfortable space in the end.

When envisioning end-of-life care, Kopas said, a standard kind of patient comes to mind, someone elderly and bound to a hospital bed. But not everyone seeking end-of-life care is elderly. For young patients, doulas can adjust the care and comfort priorities.

Community health care worker Kandis Draw was forced to grapple with such adjustments as she cared for her sister battling liver failure at age 22. While burdened with grief, she discovered the distinct differences of navigating the dying process with someone in their 20s.

When you deal with people who are in their 60s and up, some of them have the attitude, Well, Ive lived my life. I dont have any regrets, she said.

She recalled one senior saying, When you get old, stuff happens to you. Theres no way around that.

This peaceful acceptance can starkly differ for those who are dying at a young age. According to Draw, 41, young patients can be burdened with a different sentiment. This is not fair. I deserve another chance. I wasnt parented right. I wasnt cared for right. I didnt have the resources. People just threw me out there, Draw said, recounting some of the comments shes heard over the years.

Despite their grief, Draw said she was able to connect with these patients. I think that you can communicate better when its someone thats close to your age. You can have more of an open conversation, she said.

Like Draw, Maureen Burns, who is 38 and a fellow collaborator with the Illinois-based HAP Foundation for hospice and palliative care, considers her work to be heavily influenced by her personal experience with grief and loss.

Hospice is comfort care without curative intent; the patient no longer has curative options or has chosen not to pursue treatment. Palliative care is comfort care for people with a serious illness with or without curative intent.

Burns reflected on the death of her father in 2021. Despite working in health care, it took her a surprisingly long time to realize that her father was a candidate for hospice care. He struggled with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. While his decline in health made daily living and traveling to doctors appointments challenging, she did not consider that those challenges could be addressed by hospice care. I think that informs my work now, Draw said. If it was that hard for me, imagine someone who hasnt heard the word hospice. Imagine what they could be missing out on.

For Kopas, becoming a doula was a way to bypass structures that imagine a standard patient. I know lots of families that dont think that hospice would be a good fit for them because they dont fit the standard kind of patient or family that would go through it, she said.

Kopas focuses on ensuring that everyone has the information they need. Did you know that green burial is an option? Did you know that palliative care can start early? Did you know that you can opt into hospice and then opt out if you want? she asked. All of this is just stuff that I felt like, if I could be a messenger for that kind of information to people who didnt know it, then that would be a significant improvement right there.

For many of Chicagos end-of-life-care workers, having conversations about a patients legacy and final moments have affected how they plan to move forward in their own lives.

Kopas found death doula work to be her method of leaving a lasting legacy in the world. She recently concluded that parenting might not be for me. This decision led her to ponder what could I still do and bring to the world that would be valuable and helpful, and offer a perspective and nuance and ease someones time here.

The answer was to be there for people when they are at their most vulnerable.

Phelps open and positive approach toward death isnt limited to her work. She has begun planning for her own death and encourages other young people to consider what a good death would look like for them.

For her, a good death would take place in her home, after which she would have a water cremation and have her ashes turned into a diamond. Although many young people dont like to discuss death, the 25-year-old said firmly that, Dying does not have to be a scary process.

The work of the citys death doulas also reminds the public that advanced care planning can be pursued at any age.

Death work isnt an exclusively older generation (issue), Kopas said. It can be a regular conversation. Having these chats before anything tragic, terminal or diagnosis-related happens is a large benefit that a lot of people dont think about.

Chicagos young end-of-life specialists provide varied forms of care. Draw hosts conversations with her Englewood neighbors who are navigating existential dread. Phelps massages the shoulders of an Uptown resident who has spent years bearing the burden of grief. Burns sits with Far North Side neighbors planning for a nearly unspeakable reality where they leave their children behind. Kopas spends hours studying the logistics of hospice care options so her client has the information needed for a death with dignity.

Regardless of the day-to-day appearance of their work, one message stays consistent: All of Chicagos communities need end-of-life support.

We need younger workers, older workers, Black workers, Hispanic  we need everybody because everybody is gonna need this type of care. Its not just one group that dies or gets sick, Burns said. Everybody needs it.
By Lucy Craymer

WELLINGTON (Reuters) -Thirty days out from New Zealands general election, recent polls show the opposition party National cementing its lead, as both parties are on the campaign trail trying to win over voters with proposed tax cuts and funding for infrastructure.

A 1News Verian poll released late on Wednesday saw support for centre-right National up 2 percentage point to 39%, while the ruling Labour Party saw support fall 1 percentage point to 28%. The poll gives National and likely partner ACT a majority in parliament following the Oct. 14 election.

It noted that a total of 10% of those surveyed did not know who they would vote for or refused to say.

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins told media on Thursday that he was not concerned by current polling results.

No ones voted yet, plenty of time, he said when asked about poll results.

Labour on Thursday announced extra funding for roads in the South Island to ensure they can stand up to future weather events.

National announced plans to loosen restrictions around building storage on farms to capture fresh water and make it easier for farmers to grow vegetables.

When farmers are strong, New Zealand is strong, and national understands that and that's why we back farmers so strongly, National leader Christopher Luxon said at the launch of the policy.

However, Nationals plan to increase the countrys tax take by allowing foreigners, currently banned, to buy houses worth more than NZ$2 million ($1.18 million) and tax those purchases at 15% has been criticised by several economists, who argue it will not bring it as much revenue as the party claims.

Luxon said he stood by the numbers and was excited by the idea of raising funds from wealthy foreigners buying luxury homes in New Zealand.

($1 = 1.6880 New Zealand dollars)

(Reporting by Lucy Craymer; Editing by Stephen Coates)
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  Senator Francis Tolentino on Thursday suggested if it is possible to change the name of the highly contested West Philippine Sea into "Greater West Philippine Sea" to further affirm the country's sovereign rights over it.

"Can Congress change the name of the West Philippine Sea to encompass a 'Greater West Philippine Sea'?" asked Tolentino during the first public hearing of the Senate Special Committee on Philippine Maritime and Admiralty Zones.

The West Philippine Sea is a part of the South China Sea within the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines that Beijing also claims.

Although it might "sound good", the Department of Foreign Affairs said that such a term would not be recognized internationally.

"We are not going to say na hindi pwede, sir (We are not going to say that it's not possible, sir). Except internationally, the term might not be recognized. Like for example, 'West Philippine Sea' does not appear in foreign maps, the term 'West Philippine Sea'," said Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega.

"But internally, we can say it's the 'Greater West Philippine Sea.' It sounds good."

In 2016, the arbitral tribunal constituted under UNCLOS largely ruled in favor of the Philippines. It declared that China has no legal basis to claim virtually the entire South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea.

Aside from China and the Philippines, other claimants to the resource-rich waterway are Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam.

The Senate special committee tackled the nine bills filed at the Congress seeking to define the maritime zones within the Philippine jurisdiction.

"The establishment of the maritime zones would provide the necessary foundation and framework for the enactment of subsequent laws pertinent to the rights and obligations of the Philippines over our maritime zones," said De Vega.

Meanwhile, Neil Simon Silva of the University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea said that having a law on maritime zones would aid the Philippines in negotiating with other countries regarding the territorial dispute.

"Yung maritime zones law, makakabuti po 'yan sa ating political steps. Upang makipag-negotiate tayo in good faith with other countries at sila makipag-negotiate sa atin," he said. "Ngayon, hindi po natin kontrolado ang behavior ng Tsina, sa kanila na po 'yun."

[Translation: The maritime zones law would be beneficial for our political steps. This would help us to negotiate in good faith with other countries and they would likewise do the same. But we cannot control China's behavior, it's up to them if they would recognize it.]
President Volodymyr Zelensky met with rabbis from across Ukraine and Jewish soldiers within the Ukrainian army on the eve of Rosh Hashanah, Jewish New Year.

Zelensky thanked leaders of Ukraine's Jewish communities for their support during the full-scale Russian invasion.

"Only the victory of Ukraine can bring peace. Thank you for moving this peace closer together with all the people of Ukraine, with the military and civilians, with your work, prayers, and activities," Zelensky said at the meeting, cited by his office.

Chief rabbis of major Ukrainian cities spoke about their communities' contribution to humanitarian efforts and the country's reconstruction. Zelensky awarded the Jewish soldiers with the Order for Courage.

Meanwhile, thousands of Hasidic Jews continue to arrive in Uman, central Ukraine, for the annual pilgrimage at the grave of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, a major Hasidic leader.

Only over Sept. 13, 8,726 pilgrims crossed the Ukrainian border, with a total of about 30,000 people expected to visit Uman for Rosh Hashanah, the Interior Ministry reported. This year, the holiday is celebrated on Sept. 15-17. Despite Russia's ongoing full-scale invasion, around 20,000 Hasidic pilgrims went to Uman in 2022.

Read also: Israel ambassador: Anti-Israel voting in UN jeopardizes support for Ukraine

Until recently, it was unclear if pilgrims from Israel would be allowed to come to Ukraine this year.

Ukraine's Ambassador to Israel, Yevhen Korniichuk, said on Aug. 21 that Kyiv was considering suspending the visa-free travel regime in response to Israel increasingly deporting Ukrainians. Reports emerged over the summer that around 10% of Ukrainians were denied entry to Israel.

According to the Times of Israel, Interior and Health Minister Moshe Arbel dismissed claims of mistreatment of Ukrainian citizens, saying that the deportations relate to Ukrainians coming to Israel as tourists, not as refugees, when the Israeli government suspects they would remain in the country illegally.

In June, the Ukrainian embassy in Israel accused the country of "close cooperation" with Russia.

Read also: Israels reluctance to choose sides strains relations with Ukraine

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
On 14 September, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the creation of a new institution, the military Ombudsman's office, which will help protect the rights of servicemen.

Source: Zelenskyy's evening address on 14 September

Quote: "Today I will note the joint work of Rustem Umierov with the Commissioner of the Verkhovna Rada for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets on such a new institution as the military ombudsman. This is really necessary. It is necessary that there is a powerful system of protection of soldiers' rights in the defence sector itself."

Details: Zelenskyy also noted the opening of a field office of the International Criminal Court in Ukraine. He noted that there is full cooperation with the Office of the Prosecutor General, all Ukrainian law enforcement institutions and the International Criminal Court. This will help law enforcement agencies bring Russian war criminals to responsibility faster. A field office has been launched in Ukraine and this is the largest representation of the court outside The Hague.

Background: On 9 September, Rustem Umierov, the newly appointed Defence Minister of Ukraine, announced the potential introduction of a new position, a military ombudsman.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has met with representatives of the Jewish community, in particular with rabbis and military personnel, as the Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, approaches.

Source: Zelenskyy on Telegram

Details: Soldiers and rabbis from Bila Tserkva, Berdychiv, Vinnytsia, Hadiach, Dnipro, Donetsk, Zhytomyr, Zaporizhzhia, Kamianske, Kyiv, Luhansk, Kremenchuk, Kryvyi Rih, Kropyvnytskyi, Lviv, Mykolaiv, Odesa, Poltava, Rivne, Sumy, Uman, Kharkiv, Kherson, Khmelnytskyi, Cherkasy, and Chernivtsi joined the meeting.

Quote: "I want to thank you for what you do, that you are always in Ukraine and always with Ukraine, that you support everyone. Secondly, [I'd like to thank you] for your prayer, and I congratulate you on your holiday  the Jewish New Year, and I wish health and peace to all of you, your families, loved ones and people that you help. Thank you for bringing this peace closer with your work, prayers and activities."

Background:

Israeli police arrived in Uman, Cherkasy Oblast, on 14 September for the duration of the Rosh Hashanah celebration. They will be on duty with their Ukrainian counterparts.

During the day, 8,726 Hasidic pilgrims crossed the state border via checkpoints. In total, about 30,000 pilgrims are expected to arrive.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
WASHINGTON  Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy plans to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York City next week, a senior Ukrainian official said. He is also expected to meet with President Joe Biden at the White House next Thursday, according to a person familiar with the plans.

The White House declined to comment.

Biden most recently met with Zelenskyy in July during the NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania.

I hope we finally have put to bed the notion about whether or not Ukraine is welcome in NATO. Its going to happen, Biden said in remarks before their bilateral meeting. Were moving  youre all moving in the right direction. I think its just a matter of getting by the next few months here.

A group of lawmakers is also working to meet with Zelenskyy during his visit, said two people directly involved in the plans.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Kyiv this month, meeting with Zelenskyy and senior Ukrainian officials to "demonstrate the United States unwavering commitment to Ukraines sovereignty, territorial integrity, and democracy, especially in the face of Russias aggression," a State Department spokesperson said.

During his visit, the State Department announced additional U.S. aid to the country, including $100 million in foreign military financing, $90.5 million in humanitarian demining assistance and $300 million to support law enforcement efforts in liberated regions.

President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelenskyy at the NATO summit (Sean Gallup / Getty Images file)

Zelenskyy has publicly expressed his intention to appear at the General Assembly for months. He delivered a virtual speech last year.

"For us, this is a war for life," he told the U.N. "That is why we need defense support  weapons, military equipment and shells. Offensive weapons, a long-range one is enough to liberate our land, and defensive systems, above all, air defense. And we need financial support  to keep internal stability and fulfill social obligations to our people."

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy plans to visit the UN General Assembly in New York next week and meet with US President Joe Biden .

Source: NBC News, citing a high-ranking Ukrainian official

Details: The outlet writes that it is not known yet whether the meeting between Biden and Zelenskyy will take place in New York or in the White House. The White House declined to comment.

Background: On 20 February, US President Joe Biden arrived in Kyiv. At the meeting with Zelenskyy, they discussed how the United States and its allies can most effectively help Ukraine in its struggle for freedom and independence.

Ukrainska Pravda is the place where you will find the most up-to-date information about everything related to the war in Ukraine. Follow us on Twitter, support us, or become our patron!
BEDFORD  The Bedford County Board of Supervisors voted Monday to approve grant funding that will support domestic violence services within the county.

Bedford Domestic Violence Services sought the American Rescue Plan Act Victim Services Grant Program (VSGP) funding through the state Department of Criminal Justice Services, according to county documents.

The supplemental appropriation of about $78,650 comes through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), a federal relief package that responded to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

There are ARPA funds for various different services that has state money flowing down to local governments, Bedford County Administrator Robert Hiss said.

The grant money will be used to replace the domestic violence shelters roof, flooring and increase part-time staffing hours to support services for domestic violence victims, Hiss said.

It is important to note, especially with the part-time hours, since this is ARPA money that the part-time hours will be decreased when the grant funding ends  the part-time hours will be decreased to stay within the county budget, Hiss said.

No local match by the county is required, he said. The grant period ends June 30.

Also during the meeting, the board voted to authorize continuation of a groundwater monitoring program at the Bedford County landfill and an old landfill site.

Virginia solid waste management regulations require periodic groundwater monitoring at wells located around sanitary landfills to demonstrate adherence to established groundwater quality standards, according to a report to the board from Doug Coffman, the countys director of public works. The work includes a voluntary sampling program in place to monitor water quality at residential properties located around the old landfill, the report states.

The engineering service fee associated with the work at the current landfill and former landfill is $191,400 and the money is included within the current fiscal year solid waste operating budget, Coffmans report states.

The countys groundwater monitoring program has been in place for 33 years, according to the county.
Flags drift in the afternoon sun at Automated Conveyor Systems on Graves Mill Road. This patriotic display marked its 6th year honoring veterans, active duty military, first responders, firefighters, police officers, EMTs, health care workers and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The display, presented by the Rotary Club of Forest paid special tribute to Vietnam veterans, as this year marked the 50th anniversary of Operation Homecoming  the departure of U.S. Troops from Vietnam and the release of the final group of Prisoners of War from Hanoi in 1973.
Sylvain Melloul International Hair Academy (SMIHA), a Lynchburg-based beauty and wellness school offering training in cosmetology, esthetics, massage therapy and barbering, along with services available to the public  is hosting the grand opening of its relocation on Thursday.

The grand opening, from noon to 3 p.m., will include an open house for prospective students and the community to tour the new space and enjoy a food truck on-site, a news release states.

This relocation is a wonderful next step for the growth and success of the academy, said Jonathan Melloul, COO of SMIHA, in the release. We are looking forward to welcoming new students and helping them flourish and grow in their upcoming careers through hands-on training and the opportunity to offer their services to the Lynchburg community.

SMIHA is relocating from River Ridge, where the school operated for nearly a decade. Now, the relocation to Candlers Station will allow SMIHA to encompass more than 14,000 square feet.

This relocation made sense for us, since weve grown not only our enrollment numbers, but in the types of services and programs we offer as well, Melloul said in the release.

The academy offers a rolling admissions process and financial aid opportunities for qualifying students interested in pursuing careers in the beauty and wellness industries.

If a potential student is interested in studying at SMIHA, we encourage them to reach out now and get the process started, Melloul said in the release. We are proud to enroll students continuously and ensure their education begins as soon as possible.

As part of attendance at SMIHA, students are able to offer their services to the general public. This includes manicures and pedicures, haircuts, facials, massages and more. A full list of services available to the public can be found on the academys website. Individuals interested in services can make an appointment or walk in, though SMIHA says it is helpful to call ahead to confirm hours of operation for individual services.
Va.s largest outdoor new car auto show coming to city mall

Virginias largest outdoor new car auto show is coming back to River Ridge mall on Sept. 15 and 16. Hosted by the Liberty University Auto Club, the Liberty University Auto Show is 100% student-led and will feature vehicles from dealers across the area, a news release states.

In April 2022, students at Liberty University hosted the clubs first-ever auto show on the schools campus, and later that October hosted their second show at River Ridge.

The event at the mall last fall was a huge success, according to representatives at River Ridge, with about 2,350 attendees over the course of the weekend, the release states. The extra space allotted by River Ridge last fall allowed the organizers to nearly double the inventory of their first event, with $11 million worth of cars and aftermarket displays featured.

This year, dealerships from across the area will once again come to showcase the latest and greatest in their inventory, the release states.

The show will take place at River Ridges West End from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday. The show is free to the public.

We are looking forward to once again welcoming car enthusiasts to River Ridge and to the West End district, where guests currently can enjoy dining options such as Papa Gallo Cocina Mexicana and Duck Donuts, LJ Nadal, marketing manager at River Ridge, said in the release.
KOBE, Sep 14 ( News On Japan ) - The Kobe District Court handed down a guilty verdict on Wednesday with a suspended sentence to a Vietnamese woman who was charged with abandoning the body of a baby in a toilet bowl.

The defendant, a Vietnamese technical intern trainee, was accused of the crime of discarding the body of a baby she gave birth to in May of this year in the toilet of a dormitory at a company in Tanba-Sasayama City, Hyogo Prefecture, and flushing it down the sewer.

During previous court proceedings, the woman had stated, "I was afraid of being sent back to Vietnam if I was found to be pregnant." The defense argued that she felt she had no one to turn to and believed she had to resolve the situation on her own, seeking a verdict with a suspended sentence.

The Kobe District Court pointed out that the defendant's actions, including flushing the stillborn baby down the toilet, lacked any sense of dignity. However, the court also acknowledged that she "recognizes the facts and reflects on them." As a result, the Vietnamese woman received a sentence of 1 year and 6 months of imprisonment suspended for 4 years.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  The Armed Forces of the Philippines' Visayas Command (VISCOM) on Wednesday awarded two canines  Mugie and Puti  for their significant contributions to military operations in the region.

"Mugie and Puti are not just dogs, they are soldiers," VISCOM commander Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo said during his visit to the 302nd Infantry Brigade headquarters in Negros Oriental.

"Like any other soldier, they too deserve to be recognized for their significant contributions. They manifest a high sense of loyalty and dedication to duty," he added.

In a statement, VISCOM said the two canines played a major role in pursuit operations in Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental on Aug. 26 that led to the discovery of a body of a communist rebel, one M653 rifle, four anti-personnel mines, and subversive documents.

During his visit, Arevalo also awarded gold and silver cross medals to 46 personnel for their bravery in the fight against the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA).

"We have achieved significant gains in our campaign against the CPP-NPA," he said. "Let us sustain our gains and continue performing our mandate with high efficacy to neutralize the menace of the CPP-NPA at the soonest possible time."
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands officials signed a beam Wednesday to dedicate a new facility under construction on the Carter Lake Boys & Girls Club campus.

Its a pretty exciting time to be at the Carter Lake Club, said Evelyn Taylor, site director since May. Taylor was program director at the Carter Lake club before leaving three years ago.

It feels great to be back as the site director, she said.

The new facility will replace the current building as the main clubhouse, said Elizabeth Donner, chief development officer. Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands will spend six months considering whether to repurpose the old building or tear it down.

That building is 40 years old, she said. It needed something. You look at renovation versus a new building, and there isnt much difference in cost.

The metal building went up in 1981 and has had its share of repairs and additions, according to Richard Webb, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands.

We have made a commitment in the last 10 years to really up our game with our club facilities across the community  and, as Richard said, this was one that we looked at very seriously, at continuing to renovate this club, said Tim Holland, chairman of the board. Weve done multiple projects over the years, but we finally got to the point where there werent enough bandages to solve the issues we had with this club.

The new structure will be set up with better accessibility, safety and line-of-sight visibility, Donner said.

We actually dont have a storm shelter, so the walls of the gym (in the new building) will double as a shelter, she said. Its a new building  it fits in with the style of our other club buildings. We really feel like the Carter Lake community deserves that.

Said Taylor, I have seen this club come a long way. Ive watched the kids grow up, and I know how much this means to the community.

The Carter Lake Boys & Girls Club is a staple in the community  and has been for generations, Taylor said.

Theres a lot of parents who have spoken to me about the many memories they (made) here as a kid, she said.

The building was designed by Holland Basham Architects, and the general contractor is Lueder Construction Co. Construction is actually ahead of schedule, so the new clubhouse is expected to open in June instead of fall 2024.
The Council Bluffs Community School District won't ask voters for an extension to its physical plant and equipment levy this November.

The school board had authorized a ballot question asking voters to approve a 10-year extension of the levy, which brings in about $3.4 million to be used for technology and infrastructure expenditures.

The board voted Tuesday to rescind that approval for the ballot language after a district attorney caught that the language approved July 25 had incorrect information and thus should not be placed on the Nov. 7 ballot.

"There's no rush," said Superintendent Vickie Murrilo told the school board. "We can circle back to it."

Voters should expect to be asked to extend the PPEL in 2025 or 2027 election cycles. A spokesperson for the district said there had been no immediate plans for those dollars.

The voter-approved PPEL is already authorized through 2028, and so there is no change to the tax levy as a result of the postponement.

"What the PPEL does is really protects the investment we've made in our school buildings," Murillo said at the July meeting. "It allows us to also purchase equipment, technology, software and also the investment in our facilities."
Council Bluffs students are learning to be ready for the workplace by getting their hands dirty  often literally  in work-based learning programs.

The Council Bluffs Community School District offered a tour of some of those programs available through the TradeWorks Academy at Thomas Jefferson High School on Tuesday morning.

The tour put a spotlight on the return on investment for residents, employers and the community for dignitaries hailing from local organizations as well as Iowa Workforce Development, which is looking to expand work-based learning across the state.

Superintendent Vickie Murillo said the state is also looking into how work-based learning could fit in with the traditional graduation requirements for high school.

"How do we reimagine what that looks like for diplomas? And how do we provide them with more opportunities and get them out of a traditional classroom?" Murillo said. "That's our goal here in Council Bluffs. We're excited about that work. We're excited about the next opportunities. And we have staff and students that are ready, so we continue to say, 'Why make them wait?'"

Students aren't waiting for those opportunities in Council Bluffs. A wide array of options, outlined as part of the district's Diploma +1 Pathways, offer preparation for collegiate-level work as well as the skilled trades and other in-demand career fields.

In some cases, they're pioneering those opportunities.

Daniela Avalos Pentoja, a senior at Abraham Lincoln High School, is a registered apprentice for early childhood education.

"It has opened lots of doors for me," Avalos Pentoja said as part of a panel discussion that concluded Tuesday's tour. "It has also matured me in lots of ways, like I definitely understand my parents' point of view now. ... It made me understand that everybody is going through something and that's why we're here to help, and I like being such a young person that can help such young people."

Chad Hansen, a Thomas Jefferson student who is involved in an information technology internship, said he feels like he was given "a step in the right direction."

"In terms of combining high school and the workforce, I think it's a fantastic opportunity and a fantastic lifting-off point," Hansen said. "Not only is it giving you the experience you need, but it also looks incredible on resumes."

The tour featured the computer science program alongside skilled trades, including a three-bedroom house that students from Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln built last school year for Habitat for Humanity, which should be moved later this month onto its foundation a few blocks away and be worked on by Iowa Western Community College construction students.

"Some of our construction students at Iowa Western, after they go through our program, are going to come and work on this when it's on site," said Terrence McGurren, the lead instructor for the TradeWorks Academy who was recognized as the Iowa Association for Career and Technical Education's 2022 teacher of the year.

Beth Townsend, executive director of Iowa Workforce Development, told the Nonpareil in an interview after the event that the experiences shared during the tour and panel discussion demonstrate why work-based learning is a valuable addition to Iowa high schools.

"All three students that we heard from absolutely demonstrate why work-based learning is so important," Townsend said. "It is teaching them employability skills. It's helped them develop their career pathways. They're going to be very focused in terms of where they go and how they get there once they graduate from high school, which is going to help them reduce their overall expense in terms of acquiring postsecondary education."

Townsend said work-based experience are important for all Iowa school children, and the state needs more employers to step up to partner with their local schools.

"What we need in Iowa is we need every student to be able to have that opportunity," Townsend said. "That's where we need to be focused. We're doing great work, but we need to do more."

Iowa has pockets of work-based learning success, and the state wants to replicate those successes  such as those on display in Council Bluffs  in other communities.

"This is a really good example on the west side of the state," Townsend said. "It is a great program. They're doing really good work, and we just need to figure out how to do more for all students, whether they're here in the Council Bluffs area or they're in Davenport or Burlington or Cedar Falls or Cedar Rapids or Decorah."

Murillo said the Council Bluffs district was excited to welcome state officials to see the work-based programs in action and hear directly from students and employers who are making them a success.

"They get a real understanding of the work that we're doing," Murillo said. "Sometimes you can hear about it, you can read about it, but to see it and interact with our students and see our students in motion and the outcomes that we have for our students, that's a whole different ballgame."

The district will also offer a tour of the new Anne E. Nelson Early Learning Center to members of the Iowa State Board of Education, who will meet Thursday and Friday in Council Bluffs, including for the board's annual retreat.

"We're getting noticed down here in Council Bluffs," Murillo said. "We're super proud of the TradeWorks, our Diploma +1, our early learning center  everything that we have embedded into our culture here in Council Bluffs has really been on that cutting edge."
SEWARD  Matthew 18: 6-7  If anyone causes one of these little ones  those who believe in me to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea. Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to st
The citizen survey for the City of Norfolks parks and recreation master plan is now available to the public. The city is collaborating with PROS Consulting on the project, and the survey will help determine priorities for the citys park system.
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.
Immediately following the tragic earthquake that struck several regions in Morocco last Friday night, Moroccans from all walks of life showed a remarkable solidarity and rushed to rescue, assist, and help the disaster victims overcome their ordeal.

This wave of solidarity demonstrated the unity of Moroccans and their ability to endure adversity with dignity, patience, and thoughtful responses. As soon as the shock of the earthquake subsided, a noteworthy solidarity movement, described as the largest of its kind started, with thousands of Moroccans from within and outside the country rushing to assist the victims of the earthquake.

In perfect harmony and cooperation, government authorities, the Royal Armed Forces, the Royal Gendarmerie, civil protection, public forces, medical teams, civil society volunteers, and ordinary citizens, all joined the movement to provide relief to the quake victims. Citizens from across the country came forward with initiatives to provide both in-kind and financial aid to the victims. Moroccans also stood in long lines to donate blood to save those who could be saved.

Whether they were doctors, pharmacists, architects, merchants, businessmen, rescue personnel, retirees, or housewives, all layers of the Moroccan society rallied to answer the call of conscience.

Associations, charitable organizations, and individuals have organized campaigns to collect essential in-kind donations to address the difficult circumstances faced by those affected in the earthquake-stricken areas, particularly food, blankets, bedding, and warm clothing.

Images shared on social media showed countless caravans of vehicles, loaded with food and medical products, coming from various cities and regions of the kingdom, attempting to reach the affected areas to hand the assistance to individuals directly or to aid-distribution centres.

Under the supervision of authorities, several public spaces were transformed into centres to collect food and various products.

This solidarity movement also highlighted the active involvement of all, women and men, young girls and teenager boys, and even children, taking turns to load vehicles before they drive to the tremor-hit areas in the Haouz.

These aid campaigns coincide with the establishment of an exceptional government fund, established by royal decree, which will collect millions of dirhams in monetary donations from governmental and non-governmental institutions, as well as from citizens to assist the victims and reconstruct the destroyed areas.

The earthquake, the most powerful in the recent history of the kingdom, was terrifying, with a heavy death toll, a large number of injured, and immense damage. However, Morocco, strengthened by the determination of its citizens and their resolve to face all hardships, shall, as it has always done, heal its wounds and overcome this hardship with patience and dignity.
The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), officially launched at the G20 summit in India, is seen by some analysts as a direct challenge to Beijings Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a multi-trillion-dollar infrastructure project launched a decade ago with the aim of connecting China to the rest of the world.

The launch of the new trade route connecting India to the Middle East and Europe through railways and ports was announced on Saturday (9 September) by US President Joe Biden, along with leaders of India, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Bidens project, which would usher in a new era of connectivity, also includes the European Union, France, Italy and Germany. It is comprised of two separate routes  an east corridor linking India to the Gulf Arab states and a northern corridor connecting the Gulf states to Europe.

Some analysts see the ambitious plan as demonstrating that Washington can count on its Middle East allies in its efforts to contain Chinas rise. In the emerging multipolar world, the project shows that Gulf states try to find a balance between traditional allies like the US and emerging partners like China.

For Saudi Arabia and the UAE, however, the India-Middle East-Europe corridor is not necessarily a replacement to the BRI, experts say. The IMEC is a manifestation of the global connectivity agenda the UAE and the region (are) perusing, Mohammed Baharoon, director general of the Dubai Public Policy Research Center, said. It will complement, more than compete with Chinas BRI since both of them are attempts to facilitate the movement of goods (including energy) money, people and data, he said.

The Middle East corridor consists of two separate corridors. The East Corridor will link the Indian port of Mundra on the west coast to Fujairah port and then using the railroad via Saudi Arabia and Jordan transport goods through standardized containers to the Israeli port of Haifa. The west corridor will be from Haifa, from where the Indian goods will reach various ports like Marseille in France and other ports in Italy and Greece.
The United Nations has said it is discussing with Moroccan authorities UN offer to support in the assessment, coordination and response to the situation following the devastating earthquake that hit the North African Kingdom.

During his daily briefing in New York, Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for Secretary-General said Moroccan authorities are leading the response and have deployed massive efforts, including medical personnel and equipment.

Many people are sheltering outdoors, with electricity, internet and roads having been cut off in some places, he added, affirming that roadblocks caused by the earthquake are gradually being lifted as rubble is being removed by Moroccan authorities.

This no doubt has an impact on children and UNICEF has already mobilized humanitarian staff to support the immediate response on the ground, said the UN spokesperson.

In close coordination with the Moroccan authorities and UN partners, UNICEF has voiced readiness to further support the humanitarian response as necessary to reach children and families affected with critical supplies and support, underlined M. Stephane Dujarric.

Responding to a question about the foreign rescuers from four countries (Spain, UK, Qatar, UAE) deployed in the quake-stricken villages in the Atlas Mountain, the spokesperson for the UN Chief said it is the sovereign decision of any country to decide how it moves forward on assistance, depending on their own capacity.

The United Nations is in constant touch with the Moroccan authorities, he stressed, citing in this regard the example of the UNICEF which has staff on the ground and other UN programs that are working in assisting as much as they can.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  At least 43 families have been affected by the magnitude 6.3 earthquake that jolted Dalupiri Island in Calayan, Cagayan on Tuesday, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported.

Some of the families affected by the tremor are housed in evacuation centers while others opted to stay outside their homes, disaster officials said on Thursday.

Five people in Barangay Centro 2 in Calayan were hurt when their house collapsed, among them a 13-year-old who suffered spinal injuries after debris fell on her.

Meanwhile, cracks were seen in 24 structures in Calayan, including schools and houses.

Classes at Calayan West Central Elementary School and Calayan High School - Main remain suspended on Thursday due to the effects of the quake.

Immediate assistance such as food has been provided to the victims.

The Cagayan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office advised residents to prepare for future temblors.

"Religiously practice yung national simultaneous earthquake drill natin so that alam ng lahat kung anong gagawin nila at hindi sila ma-rattle once na mayroong shake," said Ruelie Rapsing of the Cagayan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

"Everyone should comply dun sa kung ano ang isinasaad ng ating National Building Code," he added. "Once nag-comply kasi sila dun, they are sure yung kanilang structure will withstand an intensity 8 earthquake."

[Translation: National simultaneous earthquake drills should be practiced religiously so everyone can know what should be done and not be rattled once the shaking happens. Everyone should comply with the National Building Code. Once they do, they will be sure that their structures will withstand an intensity 8 earthquake.]
Rahul Dhir, Chief Executive Officer of London-based Tullow Oil has told on September 13 Bloomberg the military coup that took place late August in Gabon has not affected the companys business operations.

Tullow Oil Plcs assets in the central African nation Gabon account for around a quarter of its crude production.

Tullow Oil Plc produced about 12,800 barrels a day of oil from non-operated assets in the central African country, Bloomberg reports. Everything has been business as usual, theres been a number of cargo liftings, Dhir told the agency in an interview.

Weve obviously watched carefully, but its been fine, he added.

A group of soldiers led by Gen Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, head of the powerful presidential guards, deposed on August 30 President Ali Bongo Odimba who led the country since 2009 following the death of his father Omar Bongo.

The coup came after the countrys independent Electoral body declared Bongo winner of August 26 elections. The junta said the elections were rigged. Nguema was made leader of the Transition and took oath on September 04.
Djibouti has inaugurated Red Sea Power, a wind farm project that will produce 60 MW electricity in a bid to reduce power shortage and increase domestic output by 50 per cent.

President Ismail Omar Guelleh unveiled the project over the last week-end. Red Sea Power is located in Ghoubet, 120 km from capital Djibouti.

The plant is made of 17 wind turbines and a 220 MVA sub-station and 5 km overhead transmission line to connect to the Electricite de Djibouti (EDD) substation.

It cost $122 million and has been funded by FMO Private Equity, Climate Investor One, Africa Finance Corporation and Great Horn Investment Holdings. Red Sea Power is set to provide electricity to 38% of the countrys population that currently does not have access to it.

The African country in the horn of the continent depends heavily on power generated from imported fossil fuels, as well as hydrogen generated power imported from neighboring Ethiopia.

The country has enough wind, solar and geothermal resources and seeks to achieve its goal of 100% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030. In addition to power to be generated, the Red Sea Power partners have built a solar-powered desalination plant that will provide drinking water to villages near the farm.
Tuareg rebels have reportedly seized control of a military camp and posts in northern Mali from army and Wagner mercenaries, threatening to unravel a 2015 peace deal, sparking a polarizing debate in the capital city Bamako over whether the government should consider restarting or increasing dialogue with armed groups.

There has been a resurgence of deadly violence in northern Mali in recent weeks involving attacks by Islamist militants on civilians and security forces. The surge in violence comes as UN peacekeeping forces vacate their bases ahead of their full withdrawal at the end of the year.

Tuareg rebels in Malis north claimed in a statement earlier this week to have captured the camp and various advanced posts from the army and the allied Russian paramilitary group Wagner around the key town of Bourem, between Gao and Timbuktu, before pulling out, fueling concerns of the collapse of the 2015 peace deal between the alliance of predominantly Tuareg armed groups and the Malian government.

The fragile 2015 peace deal came under strain after the civilian government was toppled in 2020 and replaced by a junta. One of its signatories, the Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA), on Monday (11 September) said it considered itself at war with the ruling junta.

Amid the escalating violence in Malis north, some people in Bamako are reported as saying the government should consider restarting or increasing dialogue with armed groups. They view negotiations better than fighting because neither side has anything to gain. Others, however, suggest that the Malian government forces should be prepared for war and ready to confront the rebels in the north of the country.
The Hodges began what would become Recognition Unlimited after stumbling on a niche nobody else filled in the local economy at the time.

They started with name tags at craft shows with an engraving machine.

We started in our home, and then when people found out that we were doing badges and stuff when we went to craft shows, they started coming to our home, Ardyce Hodges said.

After 42 years, Ardyce and her husband, Ron, are closing Recognition Unlimited, their laser and traditional engraving business in the Canteen District in North Platte.

They are a close couple who started working together every day in 1984 at craft shows, which led to their business.

We get along, Ron said, smiling.

They even do hobbies together. Ardyce and Ron say theyre always working on something in their wood shop.

They said its time to retire and they are selling their inventory at a reduced price before moving on. Theyre still open in Parkade Plaza on East Sixth Street until the end of September.

They sold their engraving equipment, so they wont be taking orders for custom engraving. If they have to, they will stay open through October, they said.

They cant recall all of the organizations and events they have served over the years, but they have supplied cast bronze plaques for memory benches around the city and plaques for sculptures next to Iron Horse Park.

They also ordered and provided plaques for Keith Blackledge Park on the corner of Sixth and Jeffers.

They engraved name tags for employees of the City of East Hollywood, California; Nebraska Game and Parks; and a bank in Georgia.

Even though its time to close down, they said they had wished to keep the business running in the community.

We love it, said Ardyce.

Its not a job, said Ron. Its just something to do. You know, we just do it because we love it, and its going to be hard to give it up.

They meticulously kept records and sought out would-be buyers, holding out a few years longer to sell their business as turnkey, but they couldnt find any.

Next year, the Hodges are celebrating their 50th anniversary. As of now, they dont have any particular plans for what theyre going to do when they retire.

They enjoy working together in the wood shop, crafting items like wine holders, shadow boxes and charcuterie boards. They will continue selling items from that hobby.

Through their business, they say, they put their three sons through college.

Wed like to thank all of the loyal and repeat customers that have been giving us business over the years, Ardyce said. Weve enjoyed working with the people in the area and the surrounding area.
People were evacuated north of North Plattes Bailey Yard for several hours after a a strong acid exploded about noon Thursday inside a stationary container aboard a railcar.

The blast from the ignition of perchloric acid caused several nearby railcars to catch fire, Union Pacific Railroad said in a statement about two hours later.

No Union Pacific personnel were injured, and our employees have been safely evacuated, U.P. spokeswoman Robynn Tysver told The Telegraph.

The explosion did not result from a derailment, as the car had been stationary in the yard for a couple hours, she added.

Perchloric acid is a hazardous material used in explosives, as well as some food, drug and biocidal products, Tysver said in the U.P. statement. The railroad was continuing its investigation Thursday afternoon.

North Platte-area first responders quickly shut down U.S. Highway 30 between Front and Splinter roads, between mile markers 170 and 172 and directly north of the explosion site in Baileys west hump. U.S. 30 traffic was also being stopped at Buffalo Bill Avenue inside North Platte.

Residents along that stretch of the highway and up to 1 mile north were evacuated after reports of heavy toxic smoke coming from the yard, according to texts received from the citys emergency notification system.

Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park and State Recreation Area closed, as did the Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center just south of the yard.

About 2:30 p.m., a follow-up notice warned people between Front and Homestead roads, U.S. 30 and West A Street outside North Platte to be prepared to evacuate in the next one to two hours due to wind and weather changing.

To keep people out of the broader evacuation zone, North Platte police said, Nebraska Department of Transportation workers posted barricades in late afternoon on both West A and West Front streets at Lakeview Boulevard.

But U.S. 30 reopened to traffic about 5 p.m., and a text notice was issued about 15 minutes later saying the fire was out and the evacuations had been lifted.

Winds were blowing from the southwest at about 10 mph around the time of the blasts. Shortly afterward, dark smoke could be seen billowing into the sky from atop the eight-story Golden Spike Tower.

Volunteer Gregg Robertson said he was talking to someone inside the tower when I just saw something and I looked and it was just a big ball of flame.

And then it was just fire, fire, fire, constant for 10, 12 minutes maybe. And then the fire went down and smoke kind of increased, and then it was just sparks coming out.

Robertson said he saw two smoke plumes rising from the blast site. The east plume was like black smoke. The west plume was orange smoke, something like Ive not seen from a fire, he said.

Theres something was burning that  I dont want no part of smelling what it was, because it was some kind of chemical over there going on.

David Thornton, who was visiting the Golden Spike Tower from Great Britain, said he saw the explosions through his binoculars.

I could see what looked like a sort of shower of sparks coming out, he said. Once I saw the smoke, I trained my binoculars on it and I could see (that) there was what looked like an explosion. But I didnt hear any sort of (audible) report.

The Nebraska State Patrol during the lunch hour was allowing limited local traffic to go westbound on U.S. 30 at its junction with Hoover Road near the old Taft School building. At least one motorist was advised to wear a mask.

Two men who live in that vicinity, talking aboard utility-type vehicles on nearby Scouts Rest Ranch Road, agreed that they heard four explosions in all.

It just shook the ground, Charlie Morland said. You could feel it shake the vehicles and stuff. I knew it was a pretty violent explosion.

The other man, a retired railroader who declined to give his name, said the blast happened across from Bailey Yards mini diesel shop about one-fourth of a mile west and south of Taft School.

It shook our house pretty good, he said.

This story includes reporting from Telegraph staffers Ryan Herzog, Andrew Bottrell, Joan von Kampen and Tyler Soper.
After a year in jail, a North Platte man is out on bond pending sentencing after a plea bargain in a 2022 sexual assault case.

Chase Q. Lenz-Schurr, 24, pleaded no contest to felony second-degree assault. As part of the plea deal, a charge of first-degree sexual assault was amended down. He is scheduled for sentencing Oct. 16.

According to court records, Lenz-Schurr picked up a 16-year-old girl from Hershey Public Schools on Sept. 7, 2022, as school released students that day.

While driving away, Lenz-Schurr and the girl consumed alcoholic beverages.

After stopping at a truck stop, Lenz-Schurr drove back roads around Sutherland, before pulling over to the side of the road and assaulted her. When she tried to escape, Lenz-Schurr pulled her back and struck her several times.

Lenz-Schurr dropped off the girl in Hershey, where she passed out in a ditch.

Waking up later at night, she found her way to her grandmothers house and contacted police. She assisted police in the investigation, locating different areas and evidence related to the crime.

Lenz-Schurr was arrested shortly after.

He is out on a personal recognizance bond pending sentencing with the condition he make no contact with the victim and follow all other standard bond conditions.

In other district court news (all listed are from North Platte unless specified otherwise):

Brenda M. Lee, 49, pleaded no contest to felony possession of methamphetamine and possession of Vicodin. As part of a plea deal, charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and possession of a controlled substance were amended down. She is scheduled for sentencing Nov. 20. Lee is out on bail at 10% of 50,000.

Christopher D. Bornschein, 34, pleaded no contest to felony possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, possession of a controlled substance and possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person. As part of the plea deal, three counts of felony possession of a controlled substance ad misdemeanor obstruction of a peace officer were dropped.

Brayden L. Legg, 18, pleaded not guilty to felony burglary, tampering with physical evidence and misdemeanor criminal mischief, under $500. He is out on bail of 10% of $25,000. His next court appearance is scheduled Oct. 16.

Aron Geiger, 51, pleaded not guilty to felony possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. He is out on bail at 10% of $50,000. His next court appearance is he duped for Oct. 30.

Mark W. Karaffe Jr., 24, pleaded no contest to felony third-degree domestic assault of a pregnant woman. As part of the plea deal, charges of felony first-degree false imprisonment and misdemeanor of negligent child abuse were dropped.

Bryan J. Ricker-Maness, 34, pleaded not guilty to felony third-degree domestic assault. His next court appearance is on Nov. 6.

Michael S. Oliverio, 25, of Florence, Kentucky, pleaded not guilty to felony theft by receiving stolen property, $5,000 or more, and operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest. His next scheduled court appearance is Nov. 6.

Carl A. Butcher, 58, pleaded not guilty to felony possession of Vyvance, possession of clonazepam, terroristic threats, using a firearm to commit a felony and misdemeanor violation of a harassment protection order. His next court appearance is Oct. 30.

Jeff L. Moats, 39, pleaded not guilty to two counts of felony possession of methamphetamine. His next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 18.

Alex R. Solis-Rodney, 32, of Kearney, pleaded not guilty to felony possession of methamphetamine and possession of fentanyl. His next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 30.

Richard J. Cooper, 65, pleaded not guilty to felony burglary. His next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 30.

Dana L. Foster, 41, pleaded not guilty to felony false imprisonment and misdemeanor domestic assault of an intimate partner. His next scheduled appearance is Sept. 18.

Jerrita L. Kindle, 37, pleaded no contest to felony possession of an exceptionally hazardous substance, methamphetamine. As part of a plea deal, the original charge of felony possession of methamphetamine between 10 and 27 grams was amended down. She is scheduled for sentencing Nov. 20.

Gabriella M. Perez, 23, pleaded not guilty to felony burglary, possession of methamphetamine, possession of Vyvance and possession of clonazepam. Her next court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 20.

Nicole J. Reilly, 35, of Mullen, pleaded guilty to misdemeanor attempted possession of methamphetamine. As part of a plea deal, the charge of felony possession of methamphetamine was amended down. District Judge Michael Piccolo sentenced her to 120 days with 45 days credit for time served.
Photo: Julio Cortez/AP

Hunter Biden has been indicted on three felony counts for making a false statement while purchasing a firearm and possession of a firearm as a prohibited person. In federal court in Delaware on Thursday, special counsel David Weiss officially filed the charges claiming that the presidents son purchased a .38-caliber Colt Cobra revolver in October 2018, stating on the application that he was not using drugs. In fact, as he knew, that statement was false and fictitious, the indictment alleges.

Biden was charged following the dramatic collapse of his plea deal in July. The indictment does not address the misdemeanor counts he is facing for allegedly failing to pay up to $1.5 million in federal taxes. Those charges could be filed either in California or the District of Columbia, which Weisss team has claimed is the proper venue. Read the indictment on the gun charge here:

Sign Up for the Intelligencer Newsletter Daily news about the politics, business, and technology shaping our world. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us.
Photo: Erika P. Rodriguez/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images

When I was on the Bahamian island of Nassau last year to report on the collapse of FTX, I had a strange encounter with two local businessmen who claimed to know a lot about where all of the companys money went. I didnt know them and hadnt sought them out. One had poked me on the shoulder at a cafe near the planned FTX headquarters site to ask if I was, in fact, Sam Bankman-Fried, whom they kept seeing on the news. That guy  who hinted at a position in the government  had all kinds of unverifiable stories about under-the-table cash payments and donations to officials and influential people there.

One thing he told me stuck out. A few weeks before, he said, FTX had bought seven apartments at a complex across the street from the governors office. That complex was the Goldwynn, an upscale residence and hotel miles from the FTX office, and the building was still under construction. So I went. It was starting to rain, and construction workers on a break pointed me toward a project manager. When I asked if it was true, he looked me over, gave me the name of his lawyer, walked through the mud to his car, and drove off. (I emailed that lawyer, Alistair W. Chisnall, later that day, but he never answered an email seeking comment.)

This week, whats left of FTX is going up for auction as the bankrupt company tries to pay back its creditors by selling off all its remaining assets  including seven apartments, with a total book value of $7 million, at the Goldwynn, according to filings in bankruptcy court. The seven apartments are only a small sliver of the nearly $8 billion in assets  and only a fraction of the 38 different Bahamian residencies that will go up for auction  but they show how FTX was still throwing around huge amounts of money right up to the very end.

Since last November, all the assets that were left over from FTX  all the digital currencies, the cash, the real estate  have been frozen. That is likely to change on September 13, when a judge is expected to approve its liquidation. (In a fun twist of fortunes, Galaxy Digital, the hedge fund run by Mike Novogratz  the Wall Street billionaire who got a tattoo of the kaput luna cryptocurrency  has been tapped to be the investment manager of all the digital assets.) FTXs post-bankruptcy CEO, John Ray III, has been sifting through the mess of the company, which, he has said, kept spotty records and hardly kept track of where its money went. (That has been backed up by numerous reports from insiders on how shoddy and sloppy it was to work there.)

The auction itself has already caused the crypto markets to shudder, since about $3.4 billion worth of bitcoin and other digital currencies are going to start hitting the market. The court will limit the amount that Galaxy can sell to about $200 million a week, in order to keep the digital-currency markets from collapsing. The Bahamian real estate is valued at about $199 million, but its unclear how much that will go for when those apartments  including Sam Bankman-Frieds notorious (and palatial) bachelor pad  will go up for sale.

The main act for Sam Bankman-Fried, and anyone seeking better answers on the FTX collapse, will come after that. In about three weeks, SBFs criminal trial begins. Hes facing roughly a centurys worth of prison time and is likely to appeal to his inexperience and messiness  the same kind of whoops argument that hes used on social media in the past to defend himself. The trial will be the best chance for getting the full truth of what happened and how he was able to build such a massive empire (apparently founded on fraud) so quickly.

Its likely that creditors  which include crypto giants like Grayscale, as well as Apple and the IRS  will get a good deal of their money back. Ray has already managed to claw back more than $7 billion. FTXs army of lawyers  who are getting paid $50 million a month  predict that the whole process will be wrapped up by next July.
Hong Kong (CNN)  China on Tuesday unveiled a plan to deepen integration between the coastal province of Fujian and self-governing Taiwan, touting the benefits of closer cross-strait cooperation while sending warships around the island in a show of military might.

The directive, issued jointly by the Chinese Communist Partys Central Committee and the State Council, vows to make Fujian a demonstration zone for integrated development with Taiwan, and the first home for Taiwanese residents and businesses to settle in China.

The document, hailed as a blueprint of Taiwans future development by Chinese experts cited in state media, comes at a delicate moment in cross-strait relations as Taiwan gears up for its presidential election in January.

It also comes as China continues to ramp up military pressure on Taiwan, a vibrant democracy of 24 million people that Beijings ruling Communist Party claims as its territory  despite never having controlled it.

Ahead of Beijings release of its integration plan, a Chinese aircraft carrier and around two dozen Chinese warships were spotted gathering in waters near Taiwan this week, according to Taiwanese authorities.

China has long taken a carrot and stick approach to Taiwan, threatening it with the prospect of military invasion while offering opportunities for business and cultural exchanges to those it believes are more amenable to Beijings point of view.

Given the extent to which cross-strait ties have frayed in recent years, it remains unclear how receptive those in Taiwan will be to Chinas sweeping proposal.

On Wednesday, Wang Ting-yu, a Taiwanese lawmaker from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, said the integration plan was ridiculous.

China should think about how it can take care of its bad debts, but not how it can conduct united front work against Taiwan, Wang said in a video message, referring to government-affiliated efforts to advance Beijings goals overseas.

The concept of turning Fujian into a zone for integrated development with Taiwan first appeared in Chinas official document in 2021, but it did not provide any details at the time.

In June, when a senior Chinese leader raised the integration plan at a forum, Taiwans Mainland Affairs Council called the proposal meaningless and futile, saying it was not in line with Taiwans public expectations and belittles Taiwan.

CNN has reached out to Taiwans Mainland Affairs Council for comment.

In the directive, Beijing vows to improve the environment for Taiwanese firms to do businesses in Fujian, deepen industrial and capital cooperation, and encourage Taiwanese companies to list on Chinese stock exchanges.

In a first, Taiwanese companies will be allowed to invest in and set up radio and television production companies in Fujian in a pilot program.

The directive also seeks to attract Taiwanese workers and families to settle in Fujian. It vows to enhance social welfare programs to make it easier for Taiwanese people to live and work in the province  including buying property, and promises equal treatment for Taiwans students to enroll in public schools.

Chinese observers noted the document is equivalent to outlining the future development blueprint of Taiwan island, which is expected to gain a broader driving force and development prospect by integrating with Fujian, the state-run Global Times said.

Fujian, a province of 40 million people on the western side of the Taiwan Strait, is the closest to Taiwan both geographically and culturally.

Many Taiwanese are descendants of Fujian immigrants who arrived in waves over the centuries, bringing with them the dialect, customs and religion that formed the backbone of the traditional culture among Taiwans majority Han population.

Chinas ruling Communist Party has long attempted to use the geographic, historic and cultural proximity between Fujian and Taiwan as an argument for closer economic and social integration  and eventual unification  with the island.

A particular focus of Beijings integration efforts falls on Taiwans outlying islands of Kinmen and Matsu, which are located much closer to Fujian than Taiwan and have shared the strongest ties with the mainland historically.

In Tuesdays directive, Beijing pledges to further speed up integration between the city of Xiamen and Kinmen  which are only a few miles apart.

It vows to explore cooperation on infrastructure projects between the two cities, which will allow electricity and gas to be transported from Xiamen to Kinmen, and to connect the two cities with a bridge. Kinmen residents will also be able to enjoy the same treatment as local residents in Xiamen, according to the plan.

Similar integration measures are also laid out for the city of Fuzhou and Matsu.

To some residents of Kinmen, the plans to promote greater connectivity may be appealing. This year, a cross-party alliance of eight local councilors in Kinmen proposed to build a bridge to Xiamen to boost economic ties, as part of a wider proposal to turn Kinmen into a demilitarized zone, or so-called peace island.

Sitting on the front line between Taiwan and China, Kinmen had faced numerous amphibious assaults and shelling by the Chinese military in the years following the Chinese civil war.

The councilors proposal envisages removing all of Taiwans troops and military installations from the islands and turning Kinmen into a setting for Beijing-Taipei talks aimed at de-escalating tensions.
Q: You are inspired by contemporary culture and phenomenons attached to your main characters, your own generation, the millennials. Gazing, emoting (tears), masking light of the phone screen which illuminates the face), texting, and selfies were the main motives that appeared in your work of art. And you have had a major impact on contemporary culture - not to mention the series Euphoria, which is very much inspired by your aesthetic in my shy opinion. Do you see these similarities? Or is it just a zeitgeist?



Petra: I tell you the truth about that series what never was told. I never talked about this publicly, because it is such a crazy thing, but basically, the reason I moved to Los Angeles was because Sam Levinson, who directed the show. He reached out my agency and told "I wrote a show based on your photos. Will you direct it?" So I moved to LA, and work for HBO for about 5 months. I was like "I am directing the show". I created a whole world for it, I did the casting, whatever and the last minute HBO was like "We are not hiring you, because you are too young". And that was like "fine, okay, thank you so much" They won't take my version of the show obviously - I was so naiv -, they'll just do another one. So it was fine, I learned a lot, it was interesting... And a year later I walked out of my apartment, and see this billboard and it's exactly what I am, as a copy of my work. I started crying, I was so shocked. I mean it happens to me so many times in my career, but not on a scale like that. It was so intense to me, because this is the aesthetic that I built all my life, and now I have to change it, 'cause it enters the mainstream and it's been taken away from me. The worst thing was when people were unknowingly saying this show looks like your photos.
OSHA Steps Up Its Investigation of Mar-Jac Poultry Following Teen Worker's Death

The agency has obtained a warrant, allowing further scrutiny into the facilitys operation.

Federal authorities are intensifying their investigation into the death of 16-year-old worker Duvan Tomas Perez at the Mar-Jac Poultry plant in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

Following Perezs death in July 2023, OSHA and the U.S. Department of Labors (DOL) Wage and Hour Division launched probes concerning potential workplace safety and child labor violations. Now in a release dated Sept. 11, OSHA announced it has secured a warrant from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi, granting access to the Mar-Jac plant.

This warrant allows federal agents to privately interview Mar-Jac employees and review associated equipment records related to the incident. Employees have been urged to contact OSHA directly, with an option to remain anonymous. OSHA is also collaborating with the local community as well as advocacy groups, such as the Immigrant Alliance for Justice & Equity of Mississippi, to engage immigrant workers who may be hesitant to come forward.

As federal investigators continue to try to understand how a 16-year-old died at the Mar-Jac Poultry plant in Hattiesburg, we are asking current Mar-Jac employees for their assistance, OSHA Area Director Courtney Bohannon in Jackson, Mississippi, said in a statement. Federal law protects the rights of workers to participate in a U.S. Department of Labor investigation and forbids employers from interfering in any way, including by retaliating against an employee who does. With help from Mar-Jac's workers, we can make sure the employer provides a safer environment for everyone who works there."

Based in Gainesville, Georgia, Mar-Jac Poultry has processing plants, feed mills and hatcheries across Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi. The company was previously the subject of OSHA violations in May 2021, when a worker lost his life after his clothing got caught in a piece of machinery. Mar-Jac contested that case, which still remains open.
China is back on the spot LNG market to seek cargoes for the coming winter, potentially upsetting a fragile balance in the global natural gas market just as Europe has reached its gas storage target well ahead of the November 1 deadline.

Following a record slump in Chinese gas demand and LNG imports last year prompted by Covid-related lockdowns, Chinas gas consumption has risen so far this year compared to 2022, although its still below the growth seen up to 2021.

In recent months, China has signed a lot of long-term LNG supply deals, including with the top exporters, the United States and Qatar. But China is also back on the spot market with a massive tender for cargoes to be delivered later this year and throughout 2024.

Intensified competition from China and other Asian buyers could leave Europe in an even more vulnerable position regarding supply for the 2023/2024 winter by driving prices higher and attracting more LNG cargoes to Asia than EU buyers would have liked.

Chinas state-owned energy giant Sinopec, via its trading arm Unipec, has recently issued a tender seeking to buy as many as 25 LNG cargoes between October 2023 and December 2024, trading sources familiar with the plans told Reuters this week.

Sinopec is looking for offers to buy one LNG cargo for delivery in October, five cargoes for November, and seven for December 2023. The rest of the 25 cargoes will be delivered one each month in 2024, according to Reuters sources.

Sinopecs trading arm may have plans to resell all or some of those cargoes later and not use them for Chinas domestic gas consumption. Whatever the case may be, thats the biggest tender by a state-held Chinese buyer to seek LNG cargoes on the spot market since February this year, Bloomberg notes.

Lockdowns and slower economic growth led last year to the first annual drop in Chinas gas consumption since 1990, while Chinas LNG imports slumped by 20%, mainly due to reduced demand and high LNG spot prices.

This year, Chinese gas demand increased by 5% year-on-year in the first half of 2023, thanks to higher demand in the power and industrial sectors, Miaoru Huang, Research Director, Asia Pacific Gas and LNG, at Wood Mackenzie, wrote in a note earlier this month.

Chinas domestic gas production is growing, and pipeline supply from Russia to China is also on the rise. But LNG net imports into China in the first half of 2023 also rose, by 6% year-over-year, Huang noted.

Going forward, China will seek more influence on LNG pricing, and on the back of improving flexibility in its gas value chain, it could increasingly act as a swing market in the global LNG supply-demand balance, Huang says.

Chinas swing market role could be tested as early as this winter, especially if winter in Europe and/or Asia is colder than usual.

We go into this winter with Europe being fairly high-stocked, Colin Parfitt, vice president of Midstream for Chevron, said at the Gastech 2023 conference in Singapore last week.

However, Parfitt warned about possible high volatility if winter is colder.

My view is were not out of the woods yet, and we may not be out of the woods for a couple of years until this new supply comes up, Parfitt said, as carried by Reuters.

ADVERTISEMENT

Despite high levels of gas stocks and reduced gas consumption and imports, Europes biggest economy, Germany, is not out of the woods in terms of gas shortages, German industry and government have been warning for months.

The supply situation on the global LNG market could further worsen just ahead of the heating season with the ongoing dispute between Chevron and trade unions over pay and work conditions at two export facilities in Australia, which collectively account for 5% of global LNG supply.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
The European Union should phase out imports of LNG from Russia instead of buying more of Moscows super-chilled fuel, EU Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson said on Thursday.

Unlike Russian oil, Russian gas is not banned or under sanctions in Europe. But while pipeline gas supply from Russia has slowed to a trickle, Europe has raised imports of LNG, including LNG from Russia.

Russias LNG exports to the EU have surged this year as the bloc is now buying significantly more Russian LNG than it did before the invasion of Ukraine.

The EUs liquefied natural gas imports from Russia jumped by 40% between January and July 2023 compared to the same period of 2021, before the Russian invasion of Ukraine, campaign NGO Global Witness said last month.

Overall, the EU bought 52% of Russias LNG exports between January and July 2023, compared to 49% in 2022 and 39% in 2021, according to Global Witnesss report.

At an energy security conference in Warsaw, Poland, Commissioner Simson said on Thursday, We see that over the past seven months Russia has exported 12.4 bcm of LNG to EU destinations. Russian LNG exports may well remain this year as high as they were last year, or even slightly bigger. We cannot be happy with that.

We can and we must reduce Russian LNG exports, to phase them out completely, Simson said, urging again all companies and EU member states to do their part.

In March this year, Simson had already urged all EU member states and all companies not to sign new LNG import contracts with Russia.

In todays remarks, she said, I call on the European Parliament and the Council to agree, in the context of the gas package, on a robust provision to allow Member States individually to restrict, when security of supply allows it, access to Russian LNG exports.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

ADVERTISEMENT

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
For centuries, Armenians have had a tight relationship with Russia. But those ties have come under strain over the past year and a half as Russia, bogged down in Ukraine, has largely stood aside as its Armenian ally faces ever increasing pressure from Azerbaijan.

Over the past two weeks, that strain has neared a breaking point as the Armenian government under Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian has made several demonstrative moves criticizing and distancing itself from Russia. To top it off, Yerevan announced that it would be hosting U.S. soldiers for an unprecedented joint military exercise, which started on September 11.



"Pashinian Changing Country's Politics To Align With West," read one headline in the Russian state news agency TASS. That kind of speculation has led senior officials from both Armenia and Russia to deny that Yerevan is moving toward membership in NATO.



While a full turn to the West is not in the cards, analysts say, Armenia is making a concerted effort to diversify its foreign policy away from its previous strong dependence on Russia. And it is accelerating that effort just as its own security situation is as precarious as ever, and its need for external support acute.



Over the last two weeks, Armenia has sent a series of loud signals about its relationship with Russia that, analysts say, appear to be calculated to draw international attention. Yerevan sent a package of humanitarian aid to Ukraine, which was delivered personally by Pashinian's wife, Anna Hakobian. That earned her a friendly photo op with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Moscow's enemy No. 1.



It was a dramatic -- albeit symbolic -- departure for Yerevan. Armenia has hitherto tried to keep a low profile in the Russia-Ukraine war, neither criticizing Russia's invasion nor supporting it. Russia's Foreign Ministry responded to Hakobian's trip by calling in Armenia's ambassador to Moscow for consultations and accusing the country of aiding "the Nazi Kyiv regime."



At the same time, there have been a series of sharp criticisms of Russia from top Armenian officials. Pashinian gave an interview to an Italian newspaper in which he said dependence on Russia was a "strategic mistake." The speaker of Armenia's parliament, Alen Simonian, got into a war of words with Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, which culminated in him dismissing her as "some secretary in some department."

Simonian also said that Armenia was likely to ratify the Rome Statute, a 1998 treaty that went into force four years later, establishing the International Criminal Court. Ratifying the statute would mean Armenia is obliged to arrest Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is wanted by The Hague-based court. Simonian had earlier suggested that ratification was not a priority for Armenia.



"Each of these small steps would have been enough to create some scandal in Armenia-Russia relations, but taken all together, they create the impression that this is more serious than anything [that] has happened before," said Mikayel Zolian, a political analyst based in Yerevan.



Armenia's recent moves are indicative of "an attempt to restore [its] independent foreign policy," Zolian told RFE/RL. But, he added: "I don't think this means that Armenia is going to become kind of a Western proxy, or that that's what we want."

Armenians Feel Let Down By Moscow



Armenians have had close relations with Russia since the early days of the Russian Empire's expansion into the Caucasus more than two centuries ago. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia has been Armenia's main security guarantor: Moscow maintains a military base with several thousand troops in Gyumri, close to the Turkish border, and Russian border forces guard Armenia's frontiers with Turkey and Iran.



Armenia is a member of the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a mutual-defense pact. And since the end of the 2020 Second Karabakh War, a 2,000-strong Russian peacekeeping contingent has been deployed to Nagorno-Karabakh, the Armenian-controlled breakaway region that is at the heart of Armenia's conflict with Azerbaijan.



But since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Armenians have felt let down by their ally. The Russian peacekeepers have proven unable or unwilling to push back against repeated Azerbaijani efforts to take new territory or improve their positions. Azerbaijan has also launched repeated offensives into Armenia itself, and the CSTO has failed to respond to Armenian requests for intervention. In this context, Zolian said that "basically, Armenia has nothing to lose" by moving away from Russia.



Yerevan has been diversifying its foreign policy in several directions. It has been actively cultivating India as a new source of weapons after shipments from Russia, its traditional supplier, dried up following the start of the Ukraine war. Armenia is also nurturing its relationship with its neighbor to the south, Iran, which has suggested that it would defend Armenian territory against a potential Azerbaijani attack.



And most conspicuously, it has boosted ties with Western countries as well. It has welcomed European Union border monitors, as the EU has taken a leading role in negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan to resolve their conflict. Yerevan hired a former NATO secretary-general, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, as a lobbyist; in that role, Rasmussen has advocated for American security guarantees and European military aid.



While relationships with Iran and India do not alarm Moscow, ties with Western countries are more sensitive.

"In Russia, it is highly likely that it will be perceived as Armenia going over to the West. Whatever Armenia does, if it's not pro-Russian, then Russia sees it as pro-Western and anti-Russian," analyst Zolian said.

Publicly, Russia has for the most part responded coolly. Russian President Vladimir Putin said on September 12 that his country has "no problems with Armenia." There are also signs of increasing discontent in Moscow.

"Yerevan's motivations need to be assessed and explained and articulated by the Armenian side, not by us," Zakharova said the next day. Listing several of the anti-Russian statements Armenian officials have been making, she added: "We assess these steps as unfriendly, and we have discussed them with our Armenian colleagues, partners, friends in bilateral channels, but now it's reached the stage of speaking about this publicly because there keep being more and more questions."

Military Drills Amount To 'A Message'



Amid the anti-Russian rhetorical campaign, Washington and Yerevan announced that they would be holding joint military drills in Armenia. The Eagle Partner 2023 exercise currently under way at the Zar and Armavir training facilities near Yerevan is expected to wind up on September 20.



The exercise itself is not of much significance from a military perspective: The drills are oriented toward peacekeeping missions and involve just 85 U.S. troops. But analysts say they amount to a clear signal, in particular considering that Armenia refused earlier this year to take part in CSTO exercises.



The drills amount to "a message to both Baku and Moscow that Armenia has more options and is being courted by friends," said Richard Giragosian, head of the Yerevan-based Regional Studies Center think tank. The timing is likely a coincidence; exercises like this are typically planned months or more in advance. (The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan referred questions about the military exercise to the Armenian Defense Ministry, which did not respond to requests for comment.)



Nevertheless, as the date of the exercise approached, the planners were surely aware of the fraught geopolitical moment but decided to proceed as planned, said Bob Hamilton, a former American defense attache in the Caucasus and now a research professor at the U.S. Army War College in the state of Pennsylvania.



"Probably a large part of that was: We don't want to be seen as backing out of an exercise because the Russians are upset about it," Hamilton said. He compared it to "freedom of navigation" exercises, in which naval vessels sail in international waters simply to demonstrate that they have the right to do so.



Still, the United States' security interests in Armenia are limited, Hamilton said.

"I don't think we're trying to send some message that the U.S. is now stepping in as a major military partner for Armenia, because that's just not true," he said. "We don't really have interests in Armenia that would justify a major military partnership."



To some analysts, the messages Armenia has been sending to Moscow have been gratuitous.

"I have a feeling there is no strategy at all, it's more reactions to actions from Azerbaijan, from the West, from Russia," said Benyamin Poghosian, a senior fellow on foreign policy at the Yerevan-based think tank APRI Armenia. But what is clear is that since the beginning of September, "for whatever reasons, the government decided to take steps to irritate Russia," he said.

"It looks like Pashinian believes that to make better relations with the West he should do something that irritates Russia," agreed Nikolai Silaev, a foreign policy analyst at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations. "So, in Russia's eyes, it looks like a shift to the West. Of course, one needs virtuoso diplomacy to diversify partnerships in the conditions Armenia is in, and Pashinian isn't a very good diplomat. Yet what he does looks like not mere diplomatic mistakes but rather like a deliberate decision."



The strategy may be to create the impression of a pro-Western orientation in order to rally support against Azerbaijan, Zolian said. Armenians have been alarmed by reports of troop movements by Azerbaijani forces toward the border, new arms shipments from Israel, and increasingly impatient rhetoric from Baku.



"For a long time, Armenia was perceived as an ally of Russia, and that was used by Azerbaijan and Turkey to justify the use of force and whatever they were doing," he said. "So, I think now, this is a message meant for the West and for Azerbaijan to show that we are on the side of the West and any attack against Armenia would be an attack on a potential ally of the West or on somebody who is trying to get out of the Russian sphere of influence."

'No Alternative'



While the need for external support is rising, Russia's neglect over the last months suggests that "there's basically no alternative" but to court the West, Zolian said.

"But I think it's more possible that Pashinian has received some messages from the West, which have encouraged him to be more bold when it comes to relations with the Russians," he said.

It remains a risky strategy, though: "Even if there have been some messages from the West, it doesn't mean that the West will necessarily follow through with whatever is promised. So, it is a very dangerous time for Armenia and for Karabakh too," Zolian said.



If Russia perceives that Armenia is drifting too far, it has several levers on which it can still exert pressure on Armenia. Yerevan is heavily reliant on remittances from migrant workers in Russia, a channel that Moscow could interfere with if it chose to. Armenia gets nearly all of its natural gas from Russia. And the Russian peacekeepers in Nagorno-Karabakh are still carrying out a critical security role there.

"To get rid of the Russians would be probably even worse than keeping Russians there," Zolian said.



Still, it's not clear that Russia is willing to take such dramatic steps.

ADVERTISEMENT

"As Armenia has been consistently standing up to Russia, there's never been a response from Russia beyond words. The Armenian government is careful enough to push the envelope but not go over the line," Giragosian said.



Silaev agrees.

"I don't expect Russia to activate these levers," he said. "Russia's approach is that we are committed to the alliance with Armenia, and it is not Moscow who worsens the relations. It seems that Pashinian wants to make Russia responsible for all Armenia's failures and misfortunes, so why should the Russian government give him additional arguments for that by putting pressure on the Armenian people? Words are enough."

By RFE/RL

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Liquefied natural gas (LNG) production at Chevrons Wheatstone export facility was reduced by 25% after a fault, a spokesman for Chevron told Reuters on Thursday, the day on which trade unions escalated their strikes at the plant and the other Chevron LNG facility, Gorgon.

Chevron has already identified the cause of the fault and is working to restart LNG production at full capacity, the U.S. supermajors spokesman added.

The current loss of 25% LNG production at Wheatstone shouldn't move the dial for international gas markets, energy analyst Saul Kavonic told Reuters.

The fault at the Australian plant coincided with the escalation of the strikes at the two Chevron facilities.

The workers have stepped up their industrial action that began earlier this week, and plan further escalations in the coming weeks.

While the unions representing the workers have not specified how many hours every day the workers at Gorgon and Wheatstone would strike, Chevron said that it had been notified of rolling 24-hour work stoppages beginning in the early morning on Thursday, Bloomberg reports.

The report notes that the industrial action has not yet affected LNG exports from Australia.

No change in the situation for the better is likely at least until September 22, when a labor market regulator will hear the dispute after Chevron reached out to it in an effort to force the workers to settle.

The supermajor is seeking to get a so-called intractable bargaining declaration from the Fair Work Commission, meaning the FWC could force workers to agree to terms proposed by Chevron.

Despite the escalation of the strikes and the shutdown of 25% of Wheatstones LNG production, Europes benchmark natural gas price traded 1.16% lower as of 10:15 a.m. GMT as currently weak gas demand outweighs supply issues, including longer-than-planned maintenance at some of Norways gas infrastructure.

ADVERTISEMENT

Even with the escalating strikes in Australia, Goldman Sachs believes chances are low of a long outage that would fuel a prolonged price rally.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
A natural gas pipeline has caught fire in Russia, RIA news agency said on Thursday.

The blast took place at 7:40 a.m. local time and was followed by a fire that affected the underground Peschany Umyot-Storozhevka pipeline near the village of Krasny Oktyabr, operated by Gazprom.

Videos and photos show balls of fire near the pipeline that engulfed acres, and reports were that a smoke column could be seen from several miles away.

The open burning of the gas pipeline has since been extinguished, according to the emergency response system.

The most recent reports at the time of writing did not specify whether the pipeline fire would disrupt energy flows from Russian ports, although restoration work has already begun.

All circumstances of the incident are being clarified, Yuri Yurin, head of the regional emergency response department, wrote on Telegram. A special commission will review the causes of the incident.

"Gas supply to consumers is carried out in full. Divisions of Gazprom Transgaz Saratov LLC have started restoration work. The reasons for the incident will be established by a special commission," The Ministry of Industry and Energy of the Saratov Region said.

The Saratov area is home to a major military airfield, Engels airbase, and the explosion came around the same time as a flurry of Ukrainian missile and drone attacks on Russian military targets. Ukraine said it successfully launched two drone strikes on Engels last year.

The Peschany UmetStorozhevka network includes two parallel one-meter-diameter trunklines built during the Soviet era. The natural gas from the pipeline goes to industrial customers in the Saratov region.

Europe has not banned or sanctioned Russian natural gas, but pipeline gas supply from Russia to Europe has slowed to a trickle since Russia invaded Ukraine.

ADVERTISEMENT

By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
TotalEnergies is launching development studies for a 200,000-bpd oil project offshore Suriname worth $9 billion, in what could be the first commercial crude production in the South American country neighboring the new hotspot for discoveries, Guyana.

The French supermajor announced this week its intention to start detailed engineering studies (FEED) for a project in Block 58 by the end of 2023, during a visit by TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne to Suriname to meet with Surinames President Chandrikapersad Santokhi and the CEO of state oil firm Staatsolie, Annand Jagesar.

TotalEnergies is the operator of Block 58, with a 50% interest, alongside APA Corporation which holds the remaining 50%. The companies expect to make a final investment decision by the end of 2024, with potential first oil targeted for 2028.

TotalEnergies and APA completed appraisals of the two main oil discoveries on the block, Sapakara South and Krabdagu, and confirmed combined recoverable resources close to 700 million barrels. The initial plans include production from these reserves through a system of subsea wells connected to a FPSO (Floating Production, Storage and Offloading unit) 150 km off the Suriname coast, with an oil production capacity of 200,000 barrels per day (bpd).

This development is in line with TotalEnergies strategy aiming at the development of low cost, low emissions oil resources, and leverages on our Companys expertise in deep water projects, Pouyanne said.

TotalEnergies and APA Corp have so far announced five discoveries in the block, prompting predictions that the South American nation could soon start commercial production of crude and reach a daily output rate of 650,000 barrels by 2030.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the Guyana-Suriname Basin could hold up to 32.6 billion barrels of undiscovered oil resources, underscoring the tremendous hydrocarbon potential that the countries share. It is estimated that Surinames offshore oil discoveries held recoverable oil resources of nearly 2 billion barrels as of the end of 2021.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

ADVERTISEMENT

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
WEDNESDAY, Sept. 13, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- Cyberbullying victimization and perpetration in early adolescence are associated with eating disorder symptoms, according to a study published online Sept. 6 in the International Journal of Eating Disorders.

Chloe M. Cheng, from University of California, San Francisco, and colleagues used data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study (2018 to 2020) to examine the association between cyberbullying and eating disorder symptoms in a national sample of 10- to 14-year-olds (10,258 individuals).

The researchers found that cyberbullying victimization was associated with worry about weight gain (prevalence ratio [PR], 2.41), self-worth tied to weight (PR, 2.08), inappropriate compensatory behavior to prevent weight gain (PR, 1.95), binge eating (PR, 1.95), and distress with binge eating (PR, 2.64) in adjusted models. Cyberbullying perpetration was associated with even higher levels of worry about weight gain (PR, 3.52), self-worth tied to weight (PR, 5.59), binge eating (PR, 2.36), and distress with binge eating (PR, 2.84).

"Adolescents experience cyberbullying related to appearance and weight. Cyberbullying can lead to low self-esteem, body dissatisfaction, and the development of an eating disorder," senior author Jason M. Nagata, M.D., also of the University of California, San Francisco, said in a statement. "Adolescents should limit social media that encourages eating disorders and appearance comparisons. Parents should advise their children to avoid cyberbullying and encourage them to report online harassment if it occurs."
(CNN)  Morale aboard a cruise ship stuck in Greenland remains high, despite a breakout of Covid and several failed attempts to free the boat.

The Ocean Explorer, carrying 206 passengers and crew, ran aground on a remote stretch of Greenland earlier this week and could potentially be stuck for days.

Three passengers on board have Covid-19, tour agency Aurora Expeditions, the ships operator, announced Thursday. The infected passengers are currently in isolation, and all others are healthy and safe, according to Aurora Expeditions.

Lis, a passenger on the cruise ship, told CNN affiliate Nine News she felt the Covid situation was contained and that her biggest fear at the moment is running out of alcohol.

That is the biggest concern I have, she said.

If that happens, however, she has a backup plan.

I had swimming lessons before I came and Im a good swimmer, Lis said. So look out: I could be swimming back to Iceland.

The Ocean Explorer got into trouble on Monday in Alpefjord, a dramatic and rugged stretch of Northeast Greenland National Park, and has not been able to free itself, according to a statement from Denmarks Joint Arctic Command (JAC).

This means that the tide - which came during the day, local time - did not give the desired help to sail on, a JAC statement said.

All passengers onboard are safe and well, tour agency Aurora Expeditions said on Wednesday.

Importantly, there is no immediate danger to themselves, the vessel, or the surrounding environment, reads a statement from Aurora Expeditions.

Following the incident, the closest inspection vessel, the Knud Rasmussen, was dispatched to assist, according to the statement, but faced a journey of 1,200 nautical miles (around 2,222 kilometers) to reach the cruise ship,

The vessel is expected to reach the Ocean Explorer on Friday evening.

As soon as we realized that the Ocean Explorer could not get free on its own, we sent a ship towards the wreck, Arctic Commander Brian Jensen said.

As soon as possible, we will also fly over the site to get fresh images to help us assess the situation on site, he continued.

We have also secured the support of other vessels in the vicinity should their assistance become necessary.

Jensen said the Ocean Explorer could still re-float on a high tide, but failing that, the Knud Rasmussen would assist.

We are actively engaged in efforts to free the MV Ocean Explorer, from its grounding. Our foremost commitment is to ensure the vessels recovery without compromising safety, Aurora Expeditions said.

During high tide on Wednesday, fishing research vessel Tarajoq, which is owned by the government of Greenland, attempted to dislodge the cruise ship, but failed to do so, the JAC confirmed with CNN on Wednesday.

According to the JAC, the Government of Greenland, the Danish Maritime Authority and the Danish Accident Investigation Board have been informed of the initial incident.

Danish armed forces personnel boarded the cruise ship on Tuesday and said all 206 people aboard were doing well, according to a statement issued by the Danish Armed Forces on Wednesday.

The ship was purpose-built for expedition travel to the worlds most remote destinations, according to the official website for Aurora Expeditions.

CNNs Tamara Hardingham-Gill also contributed to this story.
Federal sign-off Tuesday recommending updated COVID-19 vaccines for Americans 6 months and older means the first of the new shots should begin arriving in Nebraska pharmacies and clinics within days.

And with a recent uptick in COVID-19 activity in Nebraska and the nation as a whole, those new shots come at a good time, said Dr. Mark Rupp, chief of the infectious diseases division at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Im enthusiastic about folks getting the vaccine and hopefully tempering ongoing COVID transmission, he said.

While COVID case counts and hospitalizations are nowhere near what either Nebraska or the nation saw in earlier waves, Rupp said, Nebraskans are hearing more anecdotal reports of friends, neighbors and family members testing positive for the virus. Patients hospitalized at Nebraska Medical Center with COVID-19 now figure in the double digits after being in the single digits  and on some days, zero  earlier this summer.

Concentrations of virus particles in wastewater in the state, as well as the U.S. as a whole, had increased to the highest levels since last spring, although the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services latest report showed a downturn in preliminary data for Sept. 6.

But quashing transmission of the virus now can only help, particularly with another respiratory illness season on the horizon. Last years confluence of COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, strained some hospitals and clinics.

Rupp said previous versions of the vaccine have been shown to be effective at preventing infection with and transmission of the virus in the first months after vaccination. Over time, however, protection against infection wanes. Americans who got last falls booster now are nearing a year since their last dose.

I think were going to be able to take this in stride, particularly if we have more and more people affording themselves of the protection that is offered by the vaccine, he said.

The vaccines continue to show good protection against severe illness and death. Fortunately, fewer people over time have developed severe disease requiring hospitalization.

But it certainly is continuing to occur, he said.

The new vaccines also are patterned on variants of the virus that are a closer match to those circulating now than past shots, Rupp said. Available data also suggests the new booster is effective against emerging strains, including BA.2.86, that had initially raised alarms.

Its not perfect, and it certainly doesnt prevent people from developing mild disease, he said, but (the vaccine) does continue to protect against more severe illness.

Should everyone get them?

Nationally, some have debated whether the new vaccine should be recommended for most Americans or just those at greater risk of serious illness, such as the elderly and immune compromised, as has occurred in some countries.

Rupp said that argument makes some sense. But from a public health standpoint, he said, it makes sense to vaccinate a broader swath of Americans. While younger people are at less risk of severe disease, they can still become seriously ill. They can also spread the virus to those at higher risk.

This is much the philosophy that weve had with influenza virus now for years and years, that this is a good vaccine, its a safe vaccine, we should be using it broadly across society to protect everyone but in particular to protect those who are most vulnerable, Rupp said. Really, at all age groups, this is a good public health strategy.

While some have raised concerns about rare cases of myocarditis among young men after vaccination, the risk of the complication has proved greater after infection, he said.

The condition, while still rare, was more common with initial doses of the vaccine than with the booster available last fall, Rupp said. Some researchers believe the initial cases were related to the fact that there was little time between the first two doses. Most believe the will be less risk with the new booster.

While the federal government has signed off on the mRNA vaccines made by Pfizer and Moderna, he said, consumers likely will have another option. Regulators also are expected to authorize an updated version of the protein-based Novavax shot in the coming weeks.

What uptake of the vaccines will look like, however, remains to be seen. Only 17% of Americans got the last booster. Nebraska did slightly better with 17.7% of its population getting the shot.

Can I get them together? And when?

The new vaccine also comes as people are beginning to think about getting shots to protect against other respiratory illnesses, including influenza and RSV. A new RSV vaccine was approved in May for people over 60. Another was OKd for pregnant women to protect them and their infants.

Rupp said people can safely get their COVID and flu shots at the same time. The two shots were given together last year with no issues. The CDC also says its OK to get COVID, flu and RSV shots together.

However, he cautioned that its still a little early to get the flu shot. As with the COVID vaccines, its protection wanes over the months. For people who can time their shots, he recommended getting the COVID shot now, given that the coronavirus is circulating in the community, and the flu shot between mid-October and early November so theyre at maximum immunity in January and February, when flu typically peaks. (Early data from South America show flu vaccines reduced flu-related hospitalizations by 52%, according to CDC, which could be promising news for the upcoming U.S. flu season.)

When it comes to the RSV shot for older people, he said, patients should speak to their health care provider about their individual risk and timing. Studies indicate that shot provides a fair amount of protection even into the following year.

However, a small amount of data has indicated that getting the RSV vaccine with other shots may somewhat decrease protective antibodies. Whether that translates into less protection in the real world, however, isnt known, he said.

So the official word is you can give all three of those vaccines together, they are safe, he said. But I think there are some reasons people would want to time their vaccines to give them maximum protection against things in conjunction with what we see in the community.

Long COVID and other considerations

Rupp said people also need to remember that the COVID vaccines reduce the risk of long COVID, including in young people.

And while fewer people are testing for COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, he said, testing and getting a diagnosis allows people to access the effective treatments available for flu and COVID.

Its also still reasonable to try to reduce risk in other ways, he said, by avoiding crowded, high-risk settings with poor ventilation, particularly for those at higher risk of serious illness. Those who cant avoid such situations shouldnt feel shy about wearing a KN95 respirator to further minimize the risk.

We need to get ... more accepting of seeing those folks wearing their masks, he said. It may protect them, it may also be protecting you, so we should be welcoming that.

Cost

Unlike past years, most people now will get COVID vaccines where they get flu shots, at pharmacies and doctors offices. But instead of the federal government picking up the tab, the cost this year will be covered by Medicare and private insurers.

Free vaccines, however, will be available to the uninsured and underinsured through health departments, federally qualified health centers and some pharmacies through whats known as the Bridge Access Program. Locations are expected to be available later this week on the Vaccines.gov website.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of September 2023
New Visions Homeless Services and its clients benefit from partnerships with a couple of local colleges: Bellevue University and Iowa Western Community College.

Iowa Western offers training in certain trades to shelter residents looking to enhance their job skills so they can get permanent housing and become independent. The third cohort of clients just finished a welding class the college offers at its Business and Community Training Center in Council Bluffs.

Weve had 12 individuals that have graduated with their welding certificates, New Visions CEO Brandy Wallar said.

One of them was Willis, who was staying at Joshua House last winter and got to join the first cohort of shelter clients who took the welding class, according to an account provided by New Visions.

Welding was nothing new to him, as he had worked in welding at other times in his life. Through the class, Willis found that he was able to explain things to other students in a way that the teacher could not.

Sometimes it just takes a different approach  and I know with these guys, its just as important to teach them life skills along with welding skills, he said.

With his skills and work ethic, Willis was soon able to land a job at Katelman Steel in Council Bluffs. That led to him finding a new home and moving out of the shelter.

His ability to relate to students also did not go unnoticed, and Iowa Western soon asked him to help teach their next cohort with New Visions.

When asked what helped him to go from homelessness to teaching a college class, Willis gives a lot of credit to his late mother. He says his mom taught him about compassion and the importance of always helping other people.

My mother counseled pregnant teens and fought for womens rights back in the '70s, he said. She always said that the best way to help people is not to give them the answers but to point them in the right direction.

Willis continues to put that advice into practice today as he puts his skills to work teaching others about welding and about life.

The welding class is offered over a two-week period, with one week for instruction and one week for hands-on learning, Wallar said. It was designed to be accessible to people who might be moving before long.

Making sure these courses are tailored to the people we support is crucial, she said. They really looked at this population and made sure our guests are going to be successful and able to complete the course.

The first cohort started in February, Wallar said.

Weve done this bi-monthly since then, she said. Being able to provide these classes, this helps ensure that their homelessness is short and hopefully is a one-time episode.

Beginning this academic year, New Visions is offering tuition assistance to all of its team members enrolled in programs at Bellevue University, Wallar said. The tuition allowance is up to $5,250 per year per employee and up to $2,500 per year for members of employees immediate family when they earn a degree from Bellevue University.

We selected Bellevue University for this program because they are also a world leader in making it possible for motivated working adults to earn a college degree, she said. They understand the needs of adult learners and offer an unparalleled level of support that helps students balance education with work and family life.

The university offered to sponsor the program to make it affordable for New Visions, Wallar said.

They really want to reach out to small businesses and nonprofits, she said. Its actually nothing out of pocket for New Visions.

Two staff members are currently interested in taking advantage of the benefit, Wallar said.

One is Nicole Beasley, who is nearing certification as a mental health technician through Bellevue University.

I plan to go back and probably finish a therapist degree, she said.

Beasley, who lives in Omaha, works on intake and case management at New Visions. When she is licensed as a therapist, she will be able to work with clients who have more serious mental health issues.

At one time, I was in a homeless situation, and I was going through a tough time -- so I feel like I can identify with these people, so that makes me want to do my best for them, she said.

About 18 years ago, Beasley and her two daughters stayed at Open Door Mission for a time and also at The Salvation Army shelter, she said. Now, her older daughter is taking classes at Metropolitan Community College and working for the City of Omaha, and her younger daughter is attending high school and working part-time.

Beasley starting working in the mental health field in 2008 and was able to purchase a house through a first-time buyer program at Housing Advisory Services, she said.

I continued to better myself, educate myself and stay within the field in the community, she said.

The only exception was during the pandemic, when Beasley sold insurance for two years.

When it was safe enough to get the vaccine and go back to work, I did, she said.

Beasley has been working at New Visions for about a year.

This job has really helped me to grow as a person, she said. Its heartbreaking we serve over 100 guys per night that are homeless. One of my goals is to buy a rental property so I can be more a part of the solution.

Taking classes at Bellevue University has also helped her grow, Beasley said.

Going to Bellevue University, I had a lot of experience in substance abuse (counseling), but when I took a course in mental health, it helped me come full circle and tie the two issues together, she said. Working here, I can see how they tie in to a persons life.

If a homeless person is struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues, those need to be addressed before they will be able to receive assistance to avoid homelessness on a long-term basis, Beasley said.
An Omaha surgeon has been charged with manslaughter after prosecutors said he was driving nearly 70 mph over the speed limit when he caused a fatal crash on Dodge Street earlier this month.

Mark A. Carlson, 61, faces one count of manslaughter in connection with the death of 22-year-old Anna Bosma of South Dakota. He remains in the hospital as of Wednesday, according to Deputy Douglas County Attorney Brenda Beadle, and will be taken into custody upon his release.

If convicted of manslaughter, Carlson faces up to 20 years in prison.

According to an arrest affidavit for Carlson, Omaha police officers responded to a crash at 62nd and Dodge Streets at about 10:30 p.m. on Sept. 1. Bosma, who was driving a Chevrolet Cruze, was declared dead at the scene.

Citing witness interviews and security footage, officers now allege that Carlson was either racing or engaged in a road rage incident with a black SUV driven by 26-year-old Cameron Robinson before the crash.

After passing University Drive East, Carlsons Mercedes E63 AMG left the roadway and struck a metal light pole on the north side of Dodge Street with the rear passenger side of his car. Carlson then crossed four lanes of traffic  three westbound lanes and one eastbound  before entering the farthest eastbound lane and colliding with the Chevy Cruze.

Police applied for and were granted a search warrant for the air-bag control module on Carlsons Mercedes. The data showed that only about two seconds elapsed from the time Carlson hit the light pole to the impact with Bosmas car.

At the time of impact with the light pole, according to the affidavit, Carlson was traveling 106 mph with 100% accelerator pedal input, meaning that he was still accelerating at full speed. Half a second before the impact with the Chevy Cruze, the accelerator pedal input remained at 100% and the vehicle was traveling 101 mph.

The speed limit in the area where the crash occurred is 35 mph.

Robinson, the SUV driver who was allegedly racing Carlson, does not face any charges as of Wednesday. Beadle said that Robinson stayed at the scene of the crash and provided a statement to police, but the investigation remains open.

According to his University of Nebraska Medical Center faculty page, Carlson is the director of the Center for Advanced Surgical Technology in addition to being a professor in the department of surgery. He is also a staff surgeon at Omahas VA Medical Center.

A spokesperson for the University of Nebraska Medical Center confirmed on Wednesday that a Mark A. Carlson is on the faculty in the department of surgery, but could not comment further on his employment status or confirm that it was the same person charged in relation to the crash.

A spokesman for the VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System confirmed Wednesday that Carlson is a staff surgeon at the Omaha facility.

We are saddened by the situation, the spokesman said in an email.

Bosma graduated from South Dakota State University in May, according to her obituary, and had just begun an occupational therapy doctorate program at the University of South Dakota. She had a deep love for animals and recently started a Facebook group to organize gatherings for people in Sioux Falls who owned Bernese Mountain Dogs.

She was greatly loved, and she loved greatly in return, her obituary reads.

World-Herald staff writer Julie Anderson contributed to this report.
Omahas American Legion Post 1 will honor service members who were prisoners of war or missing in action at a POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremony at 11 a.m. Friday at Memorial Park.

The keynote speaker will represent the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, which is tasked with identifying the remains of service members from crash sites, battlefields, or graves marked unknown at military cemeteries around the world.

Retired Air Force Col. Ben Felix Ungerman, deputy chief of staff for Rep. Don Bacon, is also slated to speak, as is a Native American veteran. Air Force ROTC cadets from the University of Nebraska at Omaha will present the colors.

Several veterans groups will lay wreaths near the colonnade in memory of POW/MIAs. American Legion veterans will fire a rifle salute and render taps.

Congress established National POW/MIA Recognition Day in 1998. It is observed on the third Friday in September.

Photos: Honorable Carry ceremony sends USS Oklahoma remains back to Hawaii
ST. LOUIS  Community leaders along the Mississippi River worried that dry Southwestern states will someday try to take the river's water may soon take their first step toward blocking such a diversion.

Mayors from cities along the river are expected to vote on whether to support a new compact among the rivers 10 states at this week's annual meeting of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative, according to its executive director Colin Wellenkamp. Supporters of a compact hope it will strengthen the regions collective power around shared goals like stopping water from leaving the corridor.

It is the most important working river on Earth, said Wellenkamp. Its a matter of national security that the Mississippi River corridor remain intact, remain sustainable and remain ecologically and hydrologically healthy.

The Southwest has long struggled to find enough water for its growing population in a region prone to drought that climate change is making worse. Transporting water from the Mississippi River basin, which drains roughly 40% of the continental United States, has always been a long shot that many say isnt practical or remotely cost-effective. But Wellenkamp worries that conversation around the idea hasnt stopped.

A formal compact is still far off. The mayors' support would be just the first step in a lengthy, politically fraught process that would require buy-in from all 10 states along the river and federal approval, experts said. Those states range from left-leaning states like Minnesota, where the river begins, to thoroughly conservative states like Louisiana, where it empties into the Gulf of Mexico.

The others are Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi.

Proponents say a compact would protect the rivers water levels and ecology, make it easier to coordinate when floods or other disaster strikes and provide a way to resolve conflict among the river states. A favorable vote would ask the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative to pursue a new river compact, according to a draft copy of the motion.

This is not going to be easy and its not going to happen overnight, said Wellenkamp. But, you know, every journey begins with a first step and a cash advance, I like to say.

Fear of water export has ignited political action before. Plans by a Canadian company in the 1990s to fill up tankers with Great Lakes water and ship it to Asia was probably the tipping point for establishing the Great Lakes Compact that went into effect in 2008. It strengthened cooperation among Great Lakes states that work with two Canadian providences to manage water from the lakes effectively, monitor its use and prevent it from leaving the basin.

The Great Lakes are better protected today than they ever have been before, said David Strifling, director of Marquette Law Schools Water Law and Policy Initiative.

But Strifling said it was difficult to get an agreement together decades ago and it would be even harder to do so now just due to the increased level of political polarization that exists.

Wellenkamp said a Mississippi River compact, besides blocking diversions, would ensure that nearby water users also act in a sustainable way.

The river's water levels can be precarious. Last fall, they fell so low that they disrupted ship and barge traffic that moved soybeans, corn and other goods downriver for export. Much of the river is once again facing drought.

People realize that the river "is not some stable resource," said Melissa Scanlan, director for the Center for Water Policy at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

People are aware of how those low levels on the Mississippi River affect commerce and the communities, she said.

There are protections against some water diversions now. If one of the five states on the upper portion of the river wants to move large amounts of water out of the basin, it must notify and consult with the other four states first. The Upper Mississippi River Basin Association has existed for decades to foster cooperative management of the river. Currently, there's an effort to quantify water use among the upper basin states and understand how that use affects the river, officials said.

John Fleck, a water expert at the Utton Center at the University of New Mexico School of Law, said he is rooting for a Mississippi River compact so that what he calls the unworkable idea of a water pipeline to the west will die.

The talk of diverting water to the Southwest will hopefully light a fire under some states to approve a Mississippi River compact, said Olivia Dorothy, director of river restoration with the conservation group American Rivers.

Diverting water can harm the river's ecology, depriving species of the water they rely on. It could also slow the movement of sediment that's vital to the health of Louisiana and the Gulf of Mexico, among many other problems, she said.

Dorothy said a compact would be a good way to say this is our water.

If you want the Mississippi River water, you can move here," she said.

States with the worst droughts States with the worst droughts #51. Ohio #50. Alaska #49. New York #48. Indiana #47. Pennsylvania #46. New Jersey #45. Vermont #44. West Virginia #43. Maine #42. New Hampshire #41. Kentucky #40. Delaware #39. Illinois #38. Maryland #37. Michigan #36. Massachusetts #35. Washington DC #34. Rhode Island #33. Connecticut #32. Wisconsin #31. Virginia #30. Mississippi #29. Tennessee #28. Missouri #27. Iowa #26. Arkansas #25. Minnesota #24. Florida #23. Louisiana #22. North Carolina #21. Alabama #20. Washington #19. North Dakota #18. South Dakota #17. Oklahoma #16. South Carolina #15. Kansas #14. Georgia #13. Nebraska #12. Montana #11. Texas #10. Hawaii #9. Oregon #8. Idaho #7. Colorado #6. Wyoming #5. California #4. Utah #3. New Mexico #2. Nevada #1. Arizona States with the worst droughts #50. West Virginia #49. Alaska #48. Ohio #47. Illinois #46. Kentucky #45. Tennessee #44. Indiana #43. Wisconsin #42. Arkansas #41. Maine #40. New Hampshire #39. Massachusetts #38. Vermont #37. Connecticut #36. Rhode Island #35. New York #34. Pennsylvania #33. Mississippi #32. Missouri #31. Michigan #30. Delaware #29. South Carolina #28. Georgia #27. Virginia #26. Louisiana #25. Arizona #24. New Jersey #23. Alabama #22. Maryland #21. North Carolina #20. Minnesota #19. California #18. Colorado #17. Washington #16. Wyoming #15. Iowa #14. New Mexico #13. Oklahoma #12. Texas #11. Kansas #10. Montana #9. Florida #8. Hawaii #7. Oregon #6. Utah #5. Nevada #4. Idaho #3. Nebraska #2. North Dakota #1. South Dakota
LINCOLN  Gov. Jim Pillen announced Thursday that he has named State Sen. Tom Briese of Albion to be the new state treasurer.

Briese will replace John Murante, who is stepping down to become director of the Nebraska Public Employees Retirement Systems agency.

Sen. Briese has the respect of his peers and has been a great representative for District 41 in the Legislature, Pillen said. Hes a proven leader on tax policy reform, which will serve him well in his new role as treasurer.

Briese, a fourth-generation family farmer with a law degree, has been a champion for property tax relief throughout his time as a state senator. He was elected to the Nebraska Legislature in 2016 and reelected in 2020, meaning that he would be term-limited out of office after next year.

Briese is chairman of the Legislatures Executive Board.

In a press release, he said he was honored to have been chosen as treasurer.

I have truly enjoyed my time in the Legislature and am proud of the accomplishments achieved during my tenure, as well as the relationships that were forged, he said. I look forward to this new opportunity and continuing to serve the people of our great state.

Murantes last day will be Sept. 18. Briese will start on Nov. 1. Under state law, the powers of the treasurers office will transfer to the governor during the interim. During the transition, Assistant State Treasurer Rachel Biar will manage the day-to-day operations of the office.

The appointment leaves a legislative vacancy. Pillens office said information will be provided later about the process to fill the vacancy for the last year of Brieses term. District 41 encompasses Boone, Greeley, Howard, Sherman, Valley, Wheeler and parts of Buffalo and Hall counties in central Nebraska.
One woman died as a result of a two-vehicle crash in central Nebraska.

Around 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, the Howard County Sheriffs Office responded to the crash that occurred at the Nebraska Highway 92 and Nebraska Highway 11 intersection.

An initial investigation found a man, who was driving a 2022 Ram ProMaster City cargo van, was driving south and allegedly ran a stop sign. A press release said the cargo van struck an eastbound 2020 Jeep Cherokee.

Both vehicles ended up in a ditch and the Jeep also overturned. The woman who had been driving the Jeep died at the scene. The man was taken to the Howard County Medical Center in St. Paul to be treated for his injuries.

Sheriff Tom Busch declined to release the names of those involved pending notification of family members. He did say the people did not live in Howard County.

The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating the crash and reconstructing it. In addition to the State Patrol, fire and rescue departments from St. Paul, Elba and Dannebrog assisted the Howard County Sheriffs Office along with the Nebraska Department of Transportation.
PONTIAC  A search warrant executed by the Livingston County Sheriffs Office on Wednesday found no human remains at a Pontiac site that was scanned as part of an investigation into a decades-old double homicide, authorities said.

In June, the sheriffs office was called to 509 E. Timber St. due to a possible lead in the investigation of the murders of Robert and Marcia Edwards in January 1983.

Deputies were joined by Illinois State Police and a University of Illinois team that was called to conduct a scan of the area using ground-penetrating radar technology. The scan was based on information from past investigative interviews, according to a news release from the sheriffs office.

Results showed an anomaly that was roughly 3 feet by 7 feet and under concrete.

As part of Wednesdays search warrant, authorities dug up a portion of the floor of an attached structure on the north side of an attached garage where the anomaly was identified, according to a release from the sheriffs office.

The excavation revealed a void under the concrete in the same shape as the reported anomaly.

However, no human remains or evidence of any other kind were located, the release said.

Livingston County Sheriff Ryan Bohm did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Thursday.

Updated mug shots from The Pantagraph Bryant Lewis Derek Roesch Justin M. Mata Marcus D. Wesley Phillip Tinch Trisha L. Hanke William B. Givens David L. Oliver Kenneth E. Funk Jordan R. King Holly M. Isaacson Kenneth L. Minton Tony L. Jackson Britley L. Hilger Jasmine L. Smith Jackie S. Claypool Noah R. Demuth Brandon L. Parsano Alexander N. Williams Carlos Sanchez-Solozarzano Jaylin S. Bones Jordan R. King Dominique M. Banks Austin T. Daugherty Sandra M. Lewis Samantha E. Morris Nolan C. Love Nikkita L. Sandefur Katlin M.B. Wilson Eli C. Garozzo Tysean T. Townsend Curtis J. Byrd Noral K. Nelson Charles J. Tankson Davis, Micah S Livingston, Joshua D. Kevin L. Ewen Emmanuel K. Mpay Ahmad S. Manns Dylan R Mann Tony L. Jackson William R. Linden Zadek U. Moen Zachary T. Willis Cecily M. Sexton Tonisha A. Jackson James A. McConnaughay Jessica M. Longberry Barry D. Guyton Keon E. Spiller Melina Aguilar Carlos D. Cregan Wayne M. Damron Terrance L. Ford Stanley M. Miller Darryl R. Vinson Jarvis K. Heads Wesley M. Noonan Brad Carter Brian K. Burnett Kenneth D. Downey Kenyon J. Bones Brittany N. Greiner
NORMAL  The League of Women Voters of McLean County will host its first program in the 2023-24 community information series on Tuesday, Sept. 26.

The free program begins at 6 p.m. at the Moses Montefiore Temple, 102 Robinhood Lane, Bloomington. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet state Sen. Dave Koehler, who represents Illinois' 46th Senate District, including portions of Bloomington-Normal and McLean County.

Guests will hear remarks about current Illinois legislative issues and timely topics.

There will also be a Q&A session, and light refreshments will be served. The event is open to the public.

Those who are interested in attending should RSVP at lwvmclean.org/Koehler.

Vote for The Pantagraph Week 3 Football Player of the Week Tommy Davis, Normal Community Dawson Dorn, Eureka Keyontae Hamilton, Bloomington Eddie Lorton, Fieldcrest Alek Weiland, University High Bo Zeleznik, LeRoy
NORMAL  Midwest Food Bank will host a benefit concert at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22, at Calvary Baptist Church, 1017 N. School St., Normal.

This year will mark the food bank's 20th anniversary and the 18th year of the Booth Brothers performing at the event. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online at Bloomington.midwestfoodbank.org or at the Midwest Food Bank locations in Normal or Peoria. Tickets will also be available at the door the night of the event. Donations will be accepted.

Children who live at home can attend free with the purchase of an adult ticket.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the food bank.

Call 309-663-5350 for more information.

Vote for The Pantagraph Week 3 Football Player of the Week Tommy Davis, Normal Community Dawson Dorn, Eureka Keyontae Hamilton, Bloomington Eddie Lorton, Fieldcrest Alek Weiland, University High Bo Zeleznik, LeRoy
(CNN)  Following a civil war and a political standoff that has lasted almost a decade, Libya is struggling to deal with a catastrophic flood that is believed to have killed at least 5,300 people and left over 10,000 missing in the countrys northeast.

Split between two rival administrations since 2014 and having failed to hold presidential elections, Libya faces an uphill battle when it comes to severe natural disasters. The North African countrys fragmented state has made it unprepared for the flooding, experts say, and has the potential to hamper delivery of urgently needed humanitarian aid.

The Libyan coastal town of Derna is one of the most severely hit cities by the floods that followed Storm Daniel, which formed on September 5, inundating parts of Greece before moving into the Mediterranean.

But the storm is only the latest misery to befall the town. It was the scene of a bloody battle with ISIS in 2015, and then in 2017 became the target of an intense military campaign by Khalifa Haftar  a renegade commander who controls swathes of eastern Libya  as the last bastion of opposition to his hold on the region.

With the city in desperate need of aid, it is unclear how it will be delivered and distributed as Derna lies in a part of the country controlled by a government most of the international community doesnt recognize.

The flooding in Libya comes just days after the strongest earthquake to hit Moroccos center in more than a century killed 3,000 over the weekend. But the situation in Morocco is different, experts say, as there is one government responsible for receiving and distributing aid, which isnt the case in Libya.

Unlike in Morocco, this disaster has the hand of man written all over it, and it is stained with their blood, said Anas El Gomati, director of the Sadeq Institute think tank in Tripoli.

Libya descended into chaos following the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that toppled longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi. In 2014, the country fell into a civil war that led to it splitting between warring factions.

Nearly 10 years later, a political standoff continues between an internationally recognized government in the capital, Tripoli, in the west of the country, that is led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibeh, and a rival rebel administration in the eastern city of Benghazi, led by Haftar and his Libyan National Army (LNA), that is supported by some states.

Libya, even when you approach it from its most advanced cities like Tripoli or Benghazi, is not equipped, said Jalel Harchaoui, an associate fellow specializing in Libya at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) in London, adding that the situation is made worse as the floods have hit the most neglected municipality (Derna) in the particularly troubled province of Cyrenaica.

We knew ahead of time

Derna, where emergency response workers say hospitals are no longer operational and bodies have been left on sidewalks outside the morgues, lies some 300 kilometers (190 miles) east of Benghazi and falls under the control of Haftars administration.

A city of nearly 100,000, it was the epicenter of ISIS 2015 debut in Libya, Harchaoui said. Following liberation from ISIS in late 2017, the city resisted control by Haftar, who in 2017 said he would choke it with a siege when it was controlled by Islamists. It has been on sour terms with the commander ever since.

Even after Haftar took control of Derna in 2018, plans for reconstruction did not materialize and the citys infrastructure remained in tatters, experts say.

The system there is overwhelmed and was underperforming before this disaster, said Gomati.

Gomati said that the problem goes beyond the political divisions, adding that emergency response authorities in the eastern government were lacking in preparedness.

A day before the storm hit, the office of Libyas eastern premier, Osama Hamad, issued a warning to citizens of Derna and its surrounding cities ahead of the expected weather conditions. The interior ministry in Tripoli had also issued a warning three days ahead.

All citizens must exercise caution, especially those close to the coast, due to thunderstorms, heavy rains and rising sea levels, Dernas municipal council warned September 9 on its Facebook page, adding that residents should limit movement unless necessary.

A curfew was set in place from 10:00 p.m. local time, until the disaster was over, the council announced in a separate post, and the evacuation of certain towns was ordered.

On Monday, the council said: The situation in the city is out of control. International intervention is needed.

Osama Aly, spokesperson for the Emergency and Ambulance Service in Libya, suggested there was negligence by authorities in preparing for the potential damage from the storm.

The weather conditions were not studied well  there was no evacuation of families that could be in the path of the storm and in valleys, Aly told CNN Monday.

Libya was not prepared for a catastrophe like that, he told Al Hurra channel earlier. We are admitting there were shortcomings even though this is the first time we face that level of catastrophe.

Dernas violent past and difficult relationship with Haftars administration proved calamitous during the recent natural disaster, Harchaoui said, adding that authorities made grievous miscalculations when responding to the crisis.

CNN has reached out to the LNAs spokesman, Major General Ahmed al-Mismari, for comment.

Al-Mismari told Al-Hadath TV Monday that from the moment authorities learned of the storm, the LNA was ready to limit losses as much as possible.

He added that LNA support is present in every city hit by the storm, and that several of the LNAs troops have gone missing amid rescue operations. The spokesman also criticized the rival government in the west, saying its response was limited to a small tweet on X, formerly known as Twitter, and that the eastern government is handling the crisis on its own.

On Tuesday, Al-Mismari told Al-Arabiya TV that Libya and the eastern authorities are not equipped to handle this level of damage, and that at least three different specialist rescue teams are needed.

We need massive numbers (of aid workers), he said.

Responding to criticism regarding lack of preparedness by the LNA, Al-Mismari said that in such situations, 50% of the responsibility falls on authorities (LNA) and 50% falls on citizens.

Analysts and some response workers say the eastern government has lacked efficiency in its efforts.

It is the incompetence of these individuals, of these political elites, (who) are responsible for clinging onto power rather than giving Libyans the right to vote for the last ten years, Gomati said. We knew ahead of time.

Political rift may hamper aid distribution

A number of nations have pledged aid but its unclear how it will be distributed. The administration in Benghazi is not recognized by the United Nations, but Haftar has gathered a number of regional and international backers amid his war with Tripoli, and Islamists in the east, including Italy, Egypt, Russia and the United Arab Emirates.

Most countries that have delivered aid to Libya have sent it to Benghazi, with the exception of Algeria, which remains at odds with Haftars army and chose to send its aid to Tripoli  more than 1,000 miles away from the affected region.

Italy has responded to Libyas request for support and is sending a civil defense team to assist with rescue operations, the countrys Civil Protection Department said Tuesday. Turkey, which backs the Tripoli government, also said it is mobilizing personnel and supplies to assist authorities in eastern Libya.

The Egyptian military has also sent three aircraft carrying medical supplies, food, and a team of 25 rescuers equipped for aid operations. A fourth aircraft will be used to evacuate the injured and deceased, the military said.

Analysts are skeptical of the extent to which the eastern government will allow access into Derna.

I dont know if they can be trusted to allow organizations and activists and human rights groups, or even aid groups to access the city, Gomati said, adding that the eastern government has spent the last few years isolating Derna.

Even if aid does get to Derna, Harchaoui said, theres no guarantee that it will be distributed in an equal and efficient manner.

Some aid workers are more optimistic, however. Tamer Ramadan, head of international Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in Libya, told CNN Tuesday that the issue of rival governments in Libya does not affect their operation.

We have a good relationship with officials in both governments, Ramadan said.
SPRINGFIELD  For years, former Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White blocked attempts by an ex-state trooper to regain his driving privileges after a high-speed crash that caused the deaths of teenage sisters on a busy St. Clair County interstate in 2007.

But after Whites retirement, Matt Mitchell is taking another shot.

Mitchell has not applied for reinstatement of his drivers license since 2014, when White rejected his hearing officers recommendation that Mitchells license be reinstated. White didnt believe Mitchell made a convincing case, a spokesperson said, adding that as an elected official, it was Whites responsibility to make the decision.

When a fatality is involved in a driving offense that leads to revocation, a formal hearing must take place before an individual can have their driving privileges reinstated, according to secretary of state spokesperson Henry Haupt. A hearing officer presides at a formal hearing where testimony and evidence are presented, then issues a recommendation to the secretary of states office. The secretarys office can either accept or deny that recommendation.

The secretary of states office declined to release Mitchells latest petition, so its unclear if the evidence he presents at his Sept. 20 hearing will be different from what was presented in prior hearings.

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who took office in January, will have the ultimate say on the reinstatement, but his spokesperson declined to comment on the matter prior to the hearing.

Providing an answer to this question would be premature and inappropriate at this time  before the hearing is even held, Haupt said in an email response to questions about Giannoulias position.

Mitchell, then an eight-year veteran of the Illinois State Police, was on patrol the day after Thanksgiving in 2007 on Interstate 64 east of St. Clair Square Mall when he heard a radio call for an crash. While he was responding to that call, Mitchell said a white car cut him off, causing him to lose control. He crossed the median, sending his squad car airborne before it struck Jessica Uhls Mazda 3 head on, causing it to catch fire. Uhl, 18, and her sister Kelli Uhl, 13, who was a passenger in the car, were pronounced dead at the scene.

A state police investigation revealed Mitchell was traveling at 126 mph when he received a phone call from his girlfriend. In addition to talking on his personal cellphone, the investigation found Mitchell was diddling with his computer while traveling at top speed immediately prior to the crash, according to a written report. Witnesses later gave contradictory accounts to reporters and then investigators, saying they did not see any car cut Mitchell off.

The investigation also found that emergency services were already on the scene of the original crash where Mitchell was heading.

Mitchell was charged and pleaded guilty to two counts of reckless homicide and two counts of aggravated reckless driving in connection with the crash. Those convictions triggered the revocation of Mitchells drivers license.

But three days later, at a civil trial, Mitchell testified that he lied during the criminal hearing and said an encroaching vehicle was at fault. While he acknowledged that he was on his phone and using his computer, he said he was trained to multitask. In those civil claims, the state paid more than $8.5 million to the Uhl survivors and another couple who were injured in the crash.

Mitchell, who had been relieved of his duties after the crash, resigned from the state police in 2010.

Before the crash that killed the Uhl sisters, Mitchell was involved in at least seven prior crashes, including one that resulted in a $1.7 million civil judgment against the state. Mitchell admitted to looking at his computer for a split second before crashing into the rear of another car stopped at a light.

Neither Mitchell nor his attorney, J. Israel Slone, a former secretary of state hearing officer, returned calls or emails for comment.

Kim Schlau and Brian Uhl, Kelli and Jessica Uhls parents, continue to oppose the restoration of Mitchells driving privileges. The Uhl sisters had just left their fathers house after a holiday photo shoot when the crash occurred. Brian Uhl passed the crash on his way to work, but the car was unrecognizable and covered in a tarp.

I knew that he would start again. Its been eight years since the last hearing, but we can never close the book on this. We still arent done, Schlau said.

After the crash, Schlau became involved in the group Below 100, a nonprofit that looks to end preventable line-of-duty deaths and serious injuries of police officers. Since 2019, she said she has offered training to every Illinois State Police cadet class.

I think this is an important way to honor Kelli and Jessica and make sure that they didnt lose their lives in vain, she said.

Photos: Illinois State Fair political days through the years 2012 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2007 State Fair 2008 State Fair 2008 State Fair 2009 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2005 State Fair 2004 State Fair 2003 State Fair 2003 State Fair 2006 State Fair 2007 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2018 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2021 State Fair 2021 State Fair
SPRINGFIELD  Efforts to form a union by staff in House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welchs office could provide an early and unexpected test of the new Workers Rights Amendment to the Illinois Constitution.

Brady Burden, a staffer in the speakers office who is part of the organizing committee of the Illinois Legislative Staff Association, said efforts to unionize have thus far been stymied by a provision in state law that specifically exempts the General Assembly from the Illinois Public Labor Relations Act.

But there is no such exemption in the Workers Rights Amendment, approved by voters less than a year ago. That addition to the states constitution provides, in part, that all employees have a fundamental right to organize and engage in collective bargaining over wages, hours and working conditions.

But at least one expert in Illinois labor law says relying on that amendment may be more difficult legally for the workers than it might first appear.

Anytime this (constitutional amendment) is going to be litigated, if ever, it's going to require some degree of interpretation. It just will because its just not clear, said Michael LeRoy, a professor at the University of Illinois College of Law and the School of Labor and Employment Relations. It's not exactly clear what this means.

According to Burden, efforts to form a union began last year but they did not go public with their campaign until May. He said well over half of the 38 employees who would be part of the bargaining unit  analysts, researchers and people who work with legislators  have signed a petition calling to form a union, which would be enough for automatic recognition by most other public employers.

Among the issues theyd like to negotiate, Burden said, are wages and hours. He said the starting salary for Democratic House staffers is around $43,000 annually, which he said is significantly lower than comparable jobs in the Senate or even for House Republican staff. He also said they would like better compensation for overtime.

Legislative staff jobs are exempt from wage and hour laws, so those workers do not receive the standard time-and-a-half when they work more than 40 hours in a week  which they do routinely during legislative sessions. Instead, Burden said, they receive roughly one hour of comp time for every three hours of overtime they work.

But because current law specifically exempts the General Assembly from the definition of a public employer, Burden said they are asking Welch to recognize their union voluntarily.

Welchs office, however, has said he prefers they hold an election because recognizing the union voluntarily would deny staff the chance to weigh in on which organization theyd like to represent them.

Burden said that cant be done because of the exemption in current state law, leaving them with the options of voluntary recognition or a lawsuit.

It's in the Constitution. We have a right to organize, Burden said. The only issue that we need, is that the speaker recognize the union.

LeRoy, however, said the Workers Rights Amendment is actually vague on that issue because its written in prospective terms, referring to future enactments by the state or local governments.

He said that although the first sentence of the amendment says employees have a fundamental right to organize, the next sentence says, No law shall be passed that interferes with, negates, or diminishes collective bargaining rights.

They use the term shall be. That's future tense, he said. It doesn't reach back. It doesn't say any law that has been enacted that interferes with collective bargaining is hereby nullified. It doesn't say that.

LeRoy said the purpose of the amendment was to prevent the enactment of so-called right-to-work laws at either the state or local level. Those are laws that say employers cannot require someone to be a member of a union as a condition of employment.

This constitutional amendment really grew out of the experience with (former Republican) Gov. Bruce Rauner, who really wanted to make Illinois a right-to-work state, he said. That was a Democratic reaction to, or response to, (Rauner).

LeRoy said that from a legal standpoint, he believes the Workers Rights Amendment is not a convincing argument for those trying to form a union. But he added, Politically, it is very convincing.

I mean, in effect, this is really calling out the Democratic-controlled General Assembly as a group of hypocrites, he said. You're legislating for thee, not me. And I think in the court of public opinion, that's where this battle can be waged with a better chance of success.

Photos: Illinois State Fair political days through the years 2012 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2007 State Fair 2008 State Fair 2008 State Fair 2009 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2005 State Fair 2004 State Fair 2003 State Fair 2003 State Fair 2006 State Fair 2007 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2018 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2021 State Fair 2021 State Fair
SPRINGFIELD  Trip Venturella was living in Norway last July when he created a now-famous Twitter account celebrating "The Great Khan" of a faraway land.

Illinois is that faraway land. Gov. J.B. Pritzker is that Khan. And Venturella's account on Twitter (or X, as the social media site is now known) is @Nomads4Pritzker  "Nomadic Warriors for Pritzker."

The bio says it all: "We are nomadic warriors united by one dream  by the will of Tengri, we will anoint JB Pritzker the Khagan of America."

(Time for a few quick definitions: A khan is a medieval sovereign of China and ruler over the Turkish, Tatar, and Mongol tribes. Tengri is a term used for the primary chief deity of early Turkic and Mongolic peoples. And Khagan refers to an imperial rank, similar in status to an emperor.)

Venturella's account, which has about 11,500 followers, stands out among a crowd of other Pritzker-friendly social media content for its unique voice and memes depicting the governor of the nation's sixth-largest state as "The Great Khan."

"I think that some of the process has been creating a certain voice for the account that is almost a character," Venturella, 33, told me in an interview earlier this month. "It's almost like if you took a 13th century Mongol warrior and you dropped him through a time portal into Illinois of 2023 and he decided that J.B. Pritzker was his khan, how would he speak? How would he react? How will he feel? And so that's, I guess, the key to keeping the brand."

Those less terminally online than political junkies and journalists might be confused without the proper context. So to explain a little: Pritzker has become a favorite of some on Twitter for his progressive policy positions, the possibility that he may one day run for president and, dare I say, his "memeable" personality.

The Great Khan, the Revealer, Unveils the Occluded Butter Cow! https://t.co/jGpn3hRX4O  Nomadic Warriors for Pritzker (@Nomads4Pritzker) August 9, 2023

The Twitter accounts sprang up and spread like wildfire, starting with "Socialists for Pritzker" (@PritzkerForPrez), which now has more than 14,500 followers. Another with more than 1,000 followers is "Frat Bros for Pritzker" (@frats4pritzker); several others have hundreds of followers.

Journalist David Weigel, writing for The Washington Post, first documented this "Pritzker Pals" phenomenon in early July 2022, writing that "they want to meme ... Pritzker into the White House."

Pritzker's political team confirmed it has no affiliation with those running the accounts.

It's the kind of organic appeal those working for an elected official can only dream of, especially when that official has been mentioned as a possible presidential candidate.

Venturella, a self-described political junkie, read Weigel's article and wanted in on the action.

After all, he was one month away from moving to Champaign from Norway. And he was familiar with Pritzker, who he described as "a really great governor of Illinois," though quickly acknowledging that "that's not a high bar." He added that Pritzker was "definitely making a name for himself" nationally.

"And I was like, 'OK, what is the ideology that is going to be so far out there that no one has taken it yet?' Because there was pretty much every other political ideology. And so I created Nomadic Warriors," he said.

This fit with Venturella's love of Central Asian history. He is trained as a playwright and works as a copywriter for an advertising agency. This background, he said, helps him keep his content fresh and his followers interested.

In one tweet last October, the account stated, "we will meme JB Pritzker on to the throne of a mighty Khanate that spans from Alaska to the Gulf of Mexico." (Khanate is defined as "the state or jurisdiction of a khan.")

The image accompanying that text depicts Pritzker with lasers coming out of his eyes wielding a sword on horseback. Chicago is deemed the "summer capital" and Springfield the "winter capital" of this hypothetical khanate that encompasses the United States.

We once said we would meme JB Pritzker into the White House, but the window of political possibility has changed since then, so we must be realistic: we will meme JB Pritzker on to the throne of a mighty Khanate that spans from Alaska to the Gulf of Mexico. pic.twitter.com/EKxhA8pP0M  Nomadic Warriors for Pritzker (@Nomads4Pritzker) October 4, 2022

Other tweets have included "battle plans" to take surrounding Midwestern states, though it already claims Indiana as "the rightful territory of Illinois."

Venturella has even created a website selling merchandise, mostly T-shirts and coffee mugs, with the exaggerated depiction of Pritzker. He estimates that about 150 orders have been received since he launched it las year.

None of it, of course would be possible without Pritzker himself, who has generated organic appeal with a certain subset of left-leaning, very online voters that has fueled the popularity of accounts like Venturella's.

Indiana is the rightful territory of Illinois. The Great Khan is destined to liberate all midwesterners under his banner. All hail! pic.twitter.com/XDPatuubQ9  Nomadic Warriors for Pritzker (@Nomads4Pritzker) August 19, 2022

"I think that he's a governor who has actually delivered on the things that he said he was going to, which is something that I think is really admirable," Venturella told me. "And as I alluded to, Illinois doesn't really have a high bar as far as governors. I mean, look at (Bruce) Rauner. Look at, my God, (Rod) Blagojevich."

"All of these governors tend to really put the state in not a great light," he continued. "So I think someone who's actually balancing the budget and helping support abortion rights and actually doing all of these things is like, 'wow, this is very, this is very impressive.'"

Venturella said that he believes Pritzker is "very aware of his left flank."

"I mean, he's not afraid to take a stand," Venturella said. "So I think that that then feeds into the sort of exaggerated portrayal of him as a conqueror of epic proportions because it sort of has a little bit of that ring of truth to it."

The account is by all accounts silly and a bit histrionic.

But hey, they do say that Twitter isn't real life, right? So in that context, such a sensationalist depiction of a Midwestern governor with political views well within the Democratic mainstream makes sense.

Everyone's in on the joke, even the man at the center of all the memes.

Pritzker called Venturella a few days after the 2022 election to thank him for his unsolicited support during the campaign.

"I definitely tried to encourage him to make some battle plans," Venturella said.

Photos: Pritzker sworn in for second term
In the serene landscapes of the Krachie Nchumuru district, Oti region, Ghana, the anticipation of motherhood often comes with its own set of challenges. For many expectant mothers like 26-year-old Ruth Por, the journey to motherhood is fraught with obstacles, from financial constraints to the long distance of the nearest health facility.



Ruths story is not uncommon. In remote parts of Ghana, access to quality healthcare, especially prenatal care, remains elusive for many. But on 1st September this year, a glimmer of hope shone through. The Vodafone Ghana Foundation, in collaboration with the Divine Mother and Child Foundation (DMAC), organised its free Rural Ultrasound Screening event. The initiative aims to bridge the maternal healthcare gap in these remote areas.



For Ruth, the news of the free ultrasound screening was nothing short of a godsend. Despite being advanced in her pregnancy, she had not had the privilege of an ultrasound, primarily due to her financial situation and the distance to the clinic. The announcement of the screening, relayed by her communitys gong-gong beater, was a beacon of hope. The fact that transportation, a 30-minute journey from her community, was also provided, made the opportunity even more accessible.



Upon arrival at the Borae Health Centre, Ruth, along with other expectant mothers, was registered and educated on the importance of antenatal care and nutrition during pregnancy. But for Ruth, the day held an even bigger surprise.

After her ultrasound, which confirmed her babys well-being, Ruth unexpectedly went into labour. Within a short span, she welcomed a healthy baby boy into the world. Its nothing short of a miracle, Ruth said gratefully. Had it not been for this event, the journey to the clinic would have been costly, and I might have arrived too late.



Interestingly, Ruths unexpected delivery is not an isolated incident. Dora Manwuro, a resident of Amanase in the Ayensuano District, had a similar experience last year. After receiving a free ultrasound scan courtesy of the Vodafone Ghana Foundations Rural Ultrasound Scan Programme, Dora went into labour and soon welcomed a healthy baby boy. To date, the programme has provided over 20,000 pregnant women with free ultrasound scans, underscoring its transformative impact in rural Ghana.



Rita Agyeiwaa Rockson, Head of Vodafone Ghana Foundation and External Communications, emphasised the significance of such initiatives, stating, Pregnancy is often a daunting journey for women, and access to ultrasound screenings can be a game-changer in ensuring the health and well-being of both mothers and their unborn children. I am delighted by the impact we are making in these rural communities. Vodafone Foundation will continue to work with government agencies and our implementing partners to improve the quality of life of beneficiaries in our communities.



Ruths story is another testament to the profound impact of such initiatives. Alidu Mavis, another beneficiary, shared her appreciation for the programme, which allowed her to gauge her pregnancys progress. Through such endeavours, the Vodafone Ghana Foundation is ensuring that the journey to motherhood, even in the most remote parts of Ghana, is one filled with hope, care, and joy.

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
U.S. Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for International Security and Nonproliferation Ann Ganzer has joined Ghanaian its counterparts to announce further U.S. support for establishing Ghana as a Small Modular Nuclear Reactor (SMR) Regional Training Hub and center of excellence for the sub-Saharan African region.



The $1.75 million in funding will support Ghanas nuclear workforce development, including the provision of an SMR control room simulator, university partnerships, and academic exchanges to position Ghana to serve as a regional training hub for nuclear power technicians and operators. Through this partnership, Ghana will be positioned to develop a skilled nuclear workforce for the region consistent with the highest international standards of nuclear safety, security, and nonproliferation.



This new commitment will support Ghana in establishing a Small Modular Reactor Regional Training Hub and center of excellence for the sub-Saharan African region.



With this support, Ghana will be positioned to develop a skilled nuclear workforce for the country and the region consistent with the highest international standards of nuclear safety, security, and nonproliferation. This partnership will assist Ghana and other like-minded countries in the region in moving towards clean, affordable, safe, and secure energy sources, said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Ganzer.



This project is supported by the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) capacity building program, in which Ghana has participated since 2022.



FIRST supports Ghanas leadership in the region on moving towards SMR deployment, consistent with the highest international standards for security, safety, and nonproliferation, and its development of a skilled nuclear workforce to achieve decarbonization and energy security goals.



Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation hosted a high-level delegation from Ghana and Kenya to visit U.S. national laboratories and operating nuclear power plants to strengthen our partnerships, with support by the FIRST Program.



Both Kenya and Ghana have been outstanding FIRST program partners in the sub-Saharan African region and continue to receive support in the form of training, technical collaboration, and capacity-building activities.



This announcement is another step in the U.S. commitment to deepen U.S.-Ghana civil nuclear cooperation and support Ghanas goal of being a first mover in Africa, as announced (link) at the 2022 International Atomic Energy Agency Nuclear Power Ministerial Conference in Washington. U.S. support to Ghana includes technical assistance, professional training exchanges, and regulatory framework collaboration.



The United States is committed to supporting the use of innovative clean energy technologies to power global decarbonization efforts and providing options to achieve net zero transition in hard-to-abate energy sectors.







Source: Isaac Kwame Owusu/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected]









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
A Deputy Ranking Member on Parliaments Education Committee has raised concerns about the effectiveness of teaching and learning in basic schools without the necessary logistics and resources.



Dr. Clement Apaak responded to the Ghana Education Services announced date for the reopening of basic schools.



The reopening date for Basic Schools across the country for the 2023/2024 academic year has been set for Tuesday, October 3.



The GES explained that the reopening date will bring the academic calendar back to the pre-Covid era.



Management of the Ghana Education Service (GES) wishes to inform you that the reopening date for Basic Schools (KG, Primary & Junior High Schools) across the country for the First Term of the 2023/2024 Academic Year is 3rd October 2023.



This brings the academic calendar back to pre-COVID-19 and we wish to also convey to all teaching and non-teaching staff the sincere appreciation of Management for their immense support during our efforts to ensure teaching and learning during the difficult period of our country.



By this letter, Regional Directors of Education are requested to communicate this date to Metro/Municipal/ District Directors of Education to inform all Heads of Basic Schools to bring to the attention of parents/guardians and students to take note and prepare accordingly for smooth and effective academic work.



Dr Apaak, representing Builsa South constituents, expressed disappointment that the government has not adequately provided the schools with the necessary logistics and resources for effective teaching and learning.



Among other challenges, he noted that capitation grants are in arrears for seven terms.



He stated that most schools do not have textbooks and those who have do not have the full complement.



The MP also expressed disappointment at the furniture shortage and has requested the government to address these issues before the schools are reopened.



How can we have effective teaching and learning in our public basic schools when:

a) Capitation grants are in arrears of 7 terms; b) Most schools have no textbooks. Those with some dont have the full complement; c) Acute furniture shortage. When will these issues be addressed.













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 NPP says claims by the NDC that the government has shortchanged cocoa farmers with the 63 percent increase in the producer price of cocoa are false.



According to the party, a new method was used to calculate the new producer prices, the calculations were done excluding other charges such as insurance and freight.



Also, the government used an exchange rate of 11.5 in calculating the prices as against the NDC 11.30.



The Minority at a forum today in the Bono Ahafo region descended on the government and Management of COCOBOD, accusing the Chief Executive of running down the institution.



They want the CEO Joseph Aidoo to resign.



But a counter news Conference in Accra addressed by the NPPs Director of Communication, Richard Ahiagbah, said the accusations by the NDC are mischievous and intentional to confuse farmers.





Source: gbc









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 Minority in Parliament claims former President John Dramani Mahama set aside GH28.9 million as seed money for the Cocoa Farmers Pension Scheme, for which the government claims credit.



To this end, the Minority holds the view that the current administration, cannot claim the scheme.



Hon Eric Opoku, the Ranking Member on the Committee of Food & Agriculture made this disclosure.



The President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has launched a pension scheme dubbed Cocoa Farmers Pension Scheme at a ceremony in Kumasi on Tuesday, 1st December 2020



The scheme will see over 1.5 million cocoa farmers in the country contributing to a pension scheme which will guarantee retirement benefits.



It will also ensure a decent retirement income security for cocoa farmers for life and ensure that they can maintain decent livelihoods after retirement.



Eric Opoku added that Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) was mandated, under Section 26 of the COCOBOD Law, 1984 (PNDC L.81), to establish a Contributory Insurance Scheme for Cocoa Farmers within the framework of the Social Security Scheme, so that cocoa farmers could also enjoy a well-deserved pension, upon retirement.



The implementation of this mandate was delayed until former President John Dramani Mahama implemented measures between 2013 and 2016, he said."



"The Mahama administration left Ghc28.9 million as seed money for a cocoa farmer pension scheme before leaving office, but the current administration has misappropriated the money and continues to claim to have introduced the scheme.



"It was our plan that the Pension Scheme for cocoa farmers in the country would enable them to make voluntary contributions towards their retirement while COCOBOD made a supplementary contribution on their behalf. That was why Mahama set aside the seed money. It was to ensure decent retirement income security for cocoa farmers for life and ensure that they can maintain decent livelihoods after retirement. But when this government took over, they did not do what was planned and admitted in the Auditor Generals report that the money was used for something different and that they would rectify the issue.



He disclosed this during a meeting with cocoa farmers and chiefs in Dadeasoaba, Ahafo Region, Wednesday, September 13, 2023.





Source: Peacefmonline









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The Minerals Commission has appointed Mr Samuel Gyabaah as the new Regional Head for the Western Region as part of a shake-up in the commission following last Sundays explosion which occurred at the STA Addsam quarry in the Shama District in the Western Region.



Mr Gyabaah, a mining engineer who worked with AngloGold Ashanti for 18 years, was the head of the Ashanti Regional office of the commission before his transfer from Kumasi to Takoradi.



As part of the exercise, Mr Desmond Boahen, also a mining engineer, has been transferred from the Takoradi office to Koforidua as the new regional head.



Checks by the Daily Graphic also revealed that Mr Paul Dawson, a mining engineer who worked with Newmont Ghana Gold Limited as an Environmental Manager for 20 years, is now the regional head for the Ashanti Region.



A source at the commission intimated that the various district heads might also be transferred.



Additionally, the Chief Inspector of Mines at the Commission has directed all the regional heads to undertake an audit of all quarry operations within their respective regions.



In a related development, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also directed its Western Regional Director to proceed to Accra for reassessment.



An explosion at the STA Addsam Quarry Mine, formerly Omini Quarry, in the Shama District in the Western Region, killed four persons and left many injured.



Many night workers, believed to be Chinese and Ghanaians, were burnt beyond recognition, while others, including the managing director of the company, are still missing.



However, those who survived were rushed to the various hospitals in the district and Sekondi.



A fuel station and the only health post in the area were not spared, as the blast caused extensive damage to countless structures and also compromised the structural integrity of many buildings.



The incident is the second to hit the Western Region in less than two years after an explosion wiped out Appeatse in January last year.



The explosion is said to have occurred at about half past midnight on Sunday from an unapproved storage for explosives.Checks by the Daily Graphic from multiple sources revealed that the explosives were being kept in an adjoining facility to the residence of the workers of the company without permit from regulators, contrary to the law governing the acquisition, storage and use of explosives.

Source: graphiconline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr Henry Kwabena Kokofu has disclosed that a 3-member committee has been set to look into the cause of the explosion at a quarry site at Kobenandohkrom in the Shama District.



The explosion killed four persons and left many injured. Some night workers, believed to be Chinese and Ghanaian nationals, were burnt, while others, including the managing director (MD) of the company, are still missing.



Those who survived were rushed to the various hospitals in the district and Sekondi.



The EPA boss speaking to Kwami Sefa Kayi, host of Peace FM's morning show 'Kokrokoo' said apart from the committee set by REGSEC, the Agency's internal monitoring system has put together a 3-man team to scrutinize and investigate their monitoring strategies with particular reference to the Western Region.



"We need to find out whether our monitoring system is working efficiently. What went wrong as far as the quarry site is concerned..." he said.



Listen to his submission in the video below





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
China issues yellow alert for geological disasters

Xinhua) 08:57, September 14, 2023

BEIJING, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese authorities on Wednesday evening issued a yellow alert for possible geological disasters triggered by heavy rainfall in multiple regions of the country.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and the China Meteorological Administration warned of the risks of rain-induced geological disasters in parts of Zhejiang, Anhui, Jiangxi, Hunan, Guangdong, Guangxi and Yunnan from 8 p.m. Wednesday to 8 p.m. Thursday.

Residents are advised to take precautions, especially in areas with potential dangers.

China has a four-tier, color-coded warning system for geological disasters, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
(CNN)  The Taliban has welcomed Zhao Sheng as Chinas new ambassador to Afghanistan during a lavish ceremony held at the presidential palace in Kabul on Wednesday.

China is among a handful of countries, including Pakistan, Iran and Russia that have maintained a diplomatic presence in Afghanistan since the Taliban retook control of the country in 2021.

In the palace ceremony, Taliban Prime Minister Mohammad Hasan Akhund shook hands with Zhao and accepted the credentials of the new Chinese Ambassador, the prime ministers office said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The Honorable Prime Minister of the Islamic Emirate thanked the leadership of China for the appointment of Mr Zhao Sheng as ambassador and expressed hope that this appointment would elevate the diplomatic relations between the two countries to a higher level and the beginning of a new chapter, Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said in the statement

According to the prime ministers office, Zhao said that China was a good neighbor of Afghanistan and fully respects Afghanistans independence, territorial integrity and independence in decision-making.

Zhao added that China does not have a policy of interference in Afghanistans internal affairs, and it does not want Afghanistan to become its area of influence.

The Taliban prime minister said relations between the two countries had been on a good level and expressed his hope for taking more steps to further strengthen the bilateral relations, according to Mujahid.

Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement the appointment was the normal rotation of Chinas ambassador to Afghanistan and was intended to continue advancing dialogue and cooperation between the two countries, according to Reuters.

The ministry said, Chinas policy toward Afghanistan is clear and consistent.

CNN has reached out to Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

China, a neighbor of Afghanistan with substantial investment in the region, was cautious about the potential security challenges posed by the abrupt return of the Taliban following the US withdrawal in August 2021.

Since then, Chinese officials have stressed increasing cooperation with Afghanistan, along with other regional neighbors, on issues such as anti-terrorism cooperation, economic collaboration and boosting regional stability and development.

In May, China, Afghanistan and Pakistan vowed to strengthen trilateral ties on security and counterterrorism at a meeting of the three countrys foreign ministers in Islamabad.

Speaking at that meeting, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang said China attached great importance to the friendship with Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Notably from the meeting, the three sides agreed to cooperate on Chinas Belt and Road trade and infrastructure program, through which China has heavily invested in the region.

They also agreed to forge closer economic ties by extending the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan so as to promote connectivity, improve cross-border trading, enhance the economic integration of the three countries and achieve sustainable development.

CPEC is a $60 billion Belt and Road flagship project that links Chinas western Xinjiang region to Pakistans strategic Gwadar port on the Arabian Sea with a network of roads, railways, pipelines and power plants.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has filed another application seeking the confirmation of the seizure of the GH2.73 million and $590,000 its officers seized at the residence of former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah.



The second application is also seeking the confirmation of the freezing of the seven bank accounts of the former minister at Prudential Bank and Societe Generale.



The application follows the dismissal of an earlier one filed by the OSP after an Accra High Court held that both the seizure and the freezing were not done in accordance with the law.



The Office of the Special Prosecutor had released both the cash and the bank accounts to Madam Dapaah in compliance with the court order which was given on August 31, 2023.



But the Office on September 5, had indicated in a press statement that the funds were seized again and the account refrozen as there was reasonable suspicion that the funds were tainted.



Arrest



The OSP arrested Madam Dappah on July 24, 2023, on suspicion of corruption and corruption-related offences after she and her husband reported huge sums of money was stolen from their home by their two housemaids.



The OSP then administratively froze the bank accounts of the former minister and filed an application before an Accra High Court seeking to confirm the seizure of the monies at her home as well as the freezing of the accounts pending further investigation into the true ownership and source of the monies.



Ruling



Justice Edward,in his ruling on the first application, had indicated that based on the available facts before it, there was no justifiable basis for the authorised officers of the OSP to exercise the powers of seizure without a court warrant or order.



The court said the true ownership of the money found at the matrimonial home of the former minister has not been established, leaving the court to wonder the basis for the OSP concluding that the funds were tainted property when a directive by the Attorney General on the police to establish the ownership and source of funds were yet to conclude.



Justice Twum also suspended the administrative freezing order placed on seven bank accounts of the former minister at Societe Generale and Prudential Bank Limited on grounds of containing alleged tainted funds.



It was the view of the court that the freezing of the account was done without any justifiable legal basis, particularly at a time when another state security institution is investigating Madam Dapaah in respect of the same subject matter for which the OSP froze her accounts.



It is clear to this court that this action by the applicant was based on speculation and mere guesses and at best reactionary to public sentiments and not based any criminal intelligence gathered as the applicant wants this court to believe, the court held.



New Move



The Office of the Special Prosecutor on September 11, once again, filed another application seeking the confirmation of the seizure of the money found at her home and confirmation of the freezing of the seven bank accounts which are said to contain substantial amounts in both cedis and other foreign currencies.



The application, which was filed before an Accra High Court, is scheduled to be heard on October 18, 2023, when the Superior Courts return from the legal vacation.

Source: dailyguidenetwork.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The autopsy results of the late Felix Kuma Azibodzi, a 29-year-old private security worker in Ho in the Agotime-Ziope District of the Volta Region who died in police custody, has proven to be an unnatural death.



The report authored on August 30, this year, by Dr Foster Gbagbo, a pathologist, who performed the autopsy and witnessed by a police pathologist and other actors showed haemothorax, fractured left rib with deflated contusion of the chest, which revealed a blunt force injury to the chest.



The report has offered respite to the Azibodzi family to apply for death certificate towards the burial of the deceased, who suffered police brutalities in custody, when he was arrested on suspicion of a car theft on August 9, which allegedly turned out to be false.



The family is hereby petitioning the authorities for a thorough independent investigation into the demise of their compatriot, who they believed was tortured and manhandled in police custody.



The family is hereby petitioning President Akufo-Addo, Ambrose Dery, the Minister of Interior, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and Godfred Yeboah Dame, the Attorney-General to cause investigations into how the deceased died at the Regional Command in Ho.



The family spokesperson, Michael Azibodzi told the Ghana News Agency that, the deceased was allegedly arrested at the Ho main lorry station by the police in relation to a suspected car theft case on Wednesday, August 9, 2023.



He said the deceaseds arrest stemmed from a post of the said missing car on his social media handles, which the spokesperson alleged was shared by his work colleagues to aid arrest of the actual culprit, but this action was misunderstood.



Mr Azibodzi said on Friday, August 11, a team of policemen led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP), Andrew Boadu Ekumah, Volta Regional Police Commander, flanked by his Regional Crime Officer and others came to the family with the information of the death of the deceased after he complained of an ailment in custody.



The family was informed he died at the Ho Teaching Hospital, where he was sent for medical attention.



He said the sad news unsettled them but they went to the morgue on Monday, August 14, believing that the case should be one of misplaced identity.



But Mr Azibodzi who was accompanied by a lawyer to the morgue said the reality was the sordid state of the body they found.



The spokesperson added that the body portrayed a broken arm, punched eye, broken teeth, swollen face, and broken legs with visible wounds at the back with blood oozing from the mouth and nose.



He said these could only be a clear case of torture, use of excessive force and wickedness with an intention to kill.



He said the family had resisted attempts by the police to convey the deceased body to the Police Hospital in Accra for autopsy as the family preferred an alternative to avoid cover-ups.



We the family of the deceased hereby appeal to the powers that be to assist the Azibodzi family to attain justice in this heinous, barbaric and calculated murder in cold blood by the Ho Police.



Rev. Raymond Akpatsa, lawyer for the family said the modus used by the Police to elicit information from suspects is crude, barbaric and inhumane and wonders why in the 21st Century, the Police cannot reform.



Meanwhile, GNA investigation attests that the deceased was Brought in Dead on August 10, and was certified dead by Dr Emmanuel Kasu, Director of Medical Services of the Ho Teaching Hospital.



Meanwhile, major actors including chiefs, queens, religious leaders and security-related NGOs have criticised police brutalities in the region, with the latest being the Gbi-Godenu and Gbi-Wegbe, leading to deaths and injuries in eight months.

Source: GNA









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Professor Smart Sarpong has called on all political parties in the country to assist the Electoral Commission in its ongoing limited registration exercise.



The Electoral Commission began the registration exercise yesterday and will end on Monday, 2nd October, 2023.



The exercise, taking place in all the 268 district offices of the Commission, is to ensure every eligible Ghanaian gets his or her name into the voters' register.



Persons who have attained the age of 18 years since the last registration exercise and those who for one reason or the other did not register in 2020, should visit the District Office where they reside with either their Ghana Card or their Ghana Passport.



Eligible applicants who do not possess any of the identification documents listed above are required to present two (2) persons who are already registered voters to guarantee their registration.



The General Public is informed that it is a criminal offence for non-Ghanaians (foreigners) and persons who are not 18 years and above (minors) to attempt to register", a statement from the Commission read.



Contributing to Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo", the Senior Research Fellow of the Kumasi Technical University, Prof. Smart Sarpong asked the district and Regional executives of the various parties to directly involve themselves in sensitizing people to partake in the exercise and conveying them to the EC district offices.



"Go from house to house to find out those eligible Ghanaians who don't have the card...and make arrangements. If we were going into elections, you would have arranged a bus and given them lorry fare to go and vote", he said.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Mr Richard Ahiagbah, the communications director of governing New Patriotic Party NPP, has responded to Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress NDC, John Dramani Mahama and NDC comments on government shortchanged cocoa famers .



Former president John Dramani Mahama has claimed that government has been shortchanged by the event increase in farm-gate prices of Cocoa.



In a Facebook post on Monday, September 11, John Mahama argued that given the international market price of cocoa reaching a 46-year record high of $3,600, the government should have provided cocoa farmers with a more equitable share of the international FOB price.



Mahama pointed out that during his tenure in 2016, his government, in addition to the free fertilizer and free cocoa seedlings program, allocated cocoa farmers 66.06% of the FOB Price of cocoa.



He argued that the NPP administration should have built upon this foundation but instead have rather increased the operational expenses of COCOBOD and reduced the international FOB share for the farmers.



According to Mr. Ahiagbah, the post by former president John Dramani Mahama was shrouded in error and generated some level of misconceptions and miscommunications from the public.



He said the claimed by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) that the Government has shortchanged cocoa farmers is false and cannot be supported by actual events on the grounds.



The Director of Communications , Richard Ahiagbah, addressed a press conference to refute the NDCs assertions, pointing out that the NDC government had announced a producer price of $1,800 or GH6,800 per tonne, or 61.71% of the gross FOB of $2,950 per tonne for the 201516 season.



Indeed, all stakeholders in the cocoa industry, including Farmers and the Ghana Civil-Society Cocoa Platform (GCCP), have all expressed joy and satisfaction at the new price and have commended the government for staying true to its words. Therefore, anyone claiming that the Government has shortchanged cocoa farmers will be doing so only for political expediency but not based on facts.



You all know by now that the amount that President AkufoAddo announced on Saturday has been greeted by farmers across this country with joy and excitement because they realize that for 50 years in this country, nobody has paid them this huge amount. Why suddenly the NDC thinks that we should pay them more. Why they couldnt pay the more.



According to him, all stakeholders including farmers and the Ghana civil society, cocoa platform, have all expressed joy and satisfaction and the new price that was at the new price and commended government for staying true to gate works. Therefore, any claim by anybody that this government has shortchanged farmers is the claim on the basis of political interests and out of political expedient.



Adding that the NDC talked about decline in yields. Well, they are to blame. It is also highly disingenuous on the part of the NDC to blame the current administration for a decline in cocoa production when they know that they contributed to the unfortunate situation. The decision by the then management to suspend the treatment of the Cocoa Swollen Shoot Viral Disease (CSSVD), resulting in many cocoa farms being attacked by the viral disease, is the root cause of Ghanas decline in production.



It would be recalled as a result of the NDC governments decision to withdraw support to farmers in treating the CSSVD in the Western Region, and as a result that action yields dropped significantly from 346,000 metric tons to below 140,000 metric tons.

Today, the management of COCOBOD, through the support of the Government led by President Akufo Addo, has been able to restore most of these farms, which were plagued by diseases under the NDC, through the Cocoa Rehabilitation Program, he hinted.



These farms are expected to yield positive results in the next few years and help increase Ghanas production capacity. Other social interventions are also currently being implemented for the benefit of cocoa farmers in the country.



According to Mr.Ahiagbah, It is also not an accurate claim by the NDC that COCOBOD started incurring losses only when the NPP assumed power in 2017. Adding that under the previous administration of the NDC, COCOBOD also made similar losses. In 2016, before the NPP took over power, COCOBOD, under the regime of the NDC led by President Mahama, caused significant losses about some $19 billion or more



He pointed out that under NPP administration, Ghana recorded its highest-ever production of one million and forty-five thousand five hundred metric tonnes (1,045,500) in the 2020/21 Crop Season. It is, therefore, not accurate when the NDC claims that

the NPP have a poor track record in cocoa production.



In fact, in their case in 2009, when the country recorded a million tonnes, it was due to the ripple effects of the interventions introduced by the then NPP administration under President John Agyekum Kufuor.



He stated in categorically that no other cocoa-producer country supports formers with interventions, like the Cocoa Rehabilitation Program, Mass Pruning, Hand Pollination, Mass Spraying, Fertilizer Subsidy Program and Free Seedlings, as is the case in Ghana. As such, cocoa farmers in all those other countries bear the total cost of production.









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
Member of Parliament for Assin Central and New Patriotic Party (NPP), flagbearer hopeful Kennedy Agyapong, has posited that his consistent drawing of the number one spot on ballots is a divine signal that he would lead both the NPP and the nation.



Speaking to the media after balloting on September 13, 2023, he expressed the belief that being drawn number one on the ballot for the second successive time was a clear indication from God that he should be entrusted with the mantle of leadership.



He noted that this divine message is apparent to anyone who subscribes to biblical wisdom.



"It is clear that I am the person God has chosen to lead the NPP. If you believe in the Bible because everywhere I go, Kennedy Agyapong is number one. It is a clear indication that I should be given a chance to lead this country."



He highlighted that he drew the number one spot in the super delegates' election and has once again drawn number one in the upcoming party congress.



These occurrences, he believes, offer undeniable proof of his presidential destiny.



"The signs are clearly on the wall that if you vote for Kennedy Agyapong, he will definitely lead this country and break the eight."



The reference to "break the eight" alludes to his desire to end the two-term limit in power that parties under the Fourth Republic have stayed in power and secure a third consecutive term for the party.



The Presidential Elections Committee held an interactive session with the four contestants vying for the NPP presidential primaries scheduled for Saturday, November 4, 2023.



The outcome of the session was the agreement on the modalities and procedures that will govern the upcoming election.



Under the supervision of officials from the Electoral Commission of Ghana, the Elections Committee conducted a balloting process to determine the order in which the contestants will appear on the ballot.



Here is the order in which the contestants will appear on the ballot:



1. Ken Ohene Agyapong



2. Mahamudu Bawumia



3. Owusu Afriyie Akoto



4. Francis Addai-Nimoh





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
Humility is a key trait that added to others can ensure that a persons political aspirations are realized, this is according to Cletus Avoka, six-time Member of Parliament, currently representing the people of Zebilla in the Upper East Region.



Avoka, who has announced his retirement from the House after his current tenure ends in January 2025, was a member of the first three Parliaments, 1992, 1996 and 2000 before losing in 2004  losing by 100 votes.



In 2008, he came back and retained his seat in 2012 before losing again in 2016  losing by 120 votes.



When I lose, I accept the verdict, no blame game. I dont start finding fault with people, I say the challenge is mine, he told a gathering of NDC lawyers on September 3 at an annual conference.



He said despite it not being an easy feat to lose a seat and win it back, he has done so a record two times since 1992.



It is better to step down when your image is high that to be retired by somebody else. It is better to leave the scene when your image is still high, than to wait for somebody to retire you, he stressed.



He said, he had always wanted to retire voluntarily and not to say that somebody has retired me, because that is an insult to my dignity, stressing that some of his young volunteers are now lawyers and top professionals so why should he contest again.











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 flagbearer aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto has said that he will win the partys presidential primary slated for November 4, 2023.



Corroborating the claim, Dr. Akoto noted that given the vision that he has so far espoused, he is the only aspirant who has clearly shown the way as to how he intends to diversify the countrys agricultural sector through policies and programs to turn Ghanas economy around and take Ghanaians out from the perennial hardships that they go through.



Interacting with a cross section of the Ghanaian media at his campaign office on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, after placing third (3rd) on the ballot in the NPP presidential primary scheduled for November 4, Dr. Akoto said he is Ghanas hope for the future and therefore asked the delegates to ignore the intimidation and undue influences that the other aspirants are employing and massively come along with him.



I am more energized than ever before to bear the flag of the NPP and go on to win power for the party. If you look at all the candidates contesting the NPP flagbearer position, who has a better message than mine? My vision for the NPP and that for Ghana inspires hope, and that is why hundreds of thousands of Ghanaians are urging me on to go all out and fight until I win power for them. I cant disappoint them, he noted.



He added I am Ghanas hope. I have already laid out the broader picture of my vision. As the campaign progresses, a lot of Ghanaians have assured me of their support, and I aint backing down.



He said all that he requires from the leadership of the NPP is a level playing field for all the competing candidates to showcase what they have to Ghanaians for them to make informed decisions.



We were five going into the November 4 polls, but one has backed down. An impression has been created that the party machinery is skewing things to favour a particular candidate. The leadership of the party must create a free environment devoid of any intimidation to allow delegates of our great NPP to decide who should lead the party going into election 2024. With that, it is easier to close our ranks, come together, and support whoever won the primary, he averred.



Dr. Akoto, who is a former two-term Member of Parliament (MP), placed 4th in the NPP Special Delegates Conference held on Saturday, August 26, 2023, surprising many political pundits and pollsters.



He is expected to intensify his campaign in the coming weeks as he re-strategizes ahead of the NPP November 4 showdown.



More than 200,000 party delegates are expected to exercise their franchise in the much-publicized elections.



Dr. Akoto, who has worked in the UN systems for over 18 years, according to sources close to his campaign team, has targeted more than half of the votes of the delegates who will decide who should lead the NPP going into the 2024 general elections.

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 Member of Parliament for the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has offered an unreserved apology to the New Patriotic Party (NPP), specifically to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and the Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, for her recent behaviour.



Mrs Safo clarified that her actions were unintended and were a result of personal challenges she was grappling with, both as an individual and as a member of a family.



The former Deputy Majority Leader also sought forgiveness from the Majority Caucus, as well as from the party's regional and constituency executives.



She expressed her remorse in a two-minute video address to the nation published on her Facebook page, urging all her constituents to forgive her actions.



In 2022, Adwoa Safo faced the Privileges Committee of Parliament after being absent for over a year. The status of her seat became a point of contention, with fellow Majority members advocating for it to be declared vacant, in opposition to National Democratic Congress (NDC) MPs.



As of now, the Speaker has yet to make a ruling based on the Committee's report.



Upon her return to Ghana from the United States of America, the former Minister of Procurement stated her intentions to participate in the partys primaries for the 2024 elections.



Watch the video below;











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
Host of Peace FM's flagship programme "Kokrokoo", Kwami Sefa Kayi, affectionately called 'Chairman General', on Thursday, September 14, found it intriguing to hear NPP National Youth Organizer purport the devil is shocked at the things the National Democratic Congress does or say in the country.



Salam Mustapha expressed utter shock over the National Democratic Congress' criticisms of President Akufo-Addo's promise to increase cocoa producer price per bag to GHC1308.



The National Democratic Congress says they would have increased the price to GHC2800 instead of the amount quoted by the President.



As we speak now, cocoa prices have seen the biggest increment since 1977, so it is your season to make a profit. If NDC were to be in government, we would have a bag of cocoa at GH2,500 and add a premium of GH300. So you would have received GH2,800 per bag, Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson said at a conference with cocoa farmers at Dadiesoaba in the Ahafo Region.



Also, former President and NDC flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama argues the President has shortchanged Ghanaian cocoa farmers.



The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government has once again shortchanged Ghanaian cocoa farmers. The announced increment in the farmgate price of cocoa to GH1,308 is a total rip-off as cocoa farmers will continue to remain worse off than they were seven (7) years ago under the NDC/Mahama government. The Spot Price of cocoa on the international market has surged to a record high of about $3,600 per metric ton as of 31st August 2023. This price is the highest since 1977- that is, in the last 46 years, he said at Tepa in the Ashanti Region during the opening of the 2023/2024 cocoa season.



But Salam Mustapha, speaking on Thursday's "Kokrokoo" edition on Peace FM, marveled at the NDC promising the cocoa farmer of a better price.



"Some of the things that the NDC does in this country, I think even the devil gets surprised...When you look at what they are capable of doing, even the devil will not try it", he replied.



His reply invited a witty and swift question from the host of the show, Sefa Kayi, who asked; "Are you close to the devil to know that the devil will be surprised?"





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The Managing Editor of the Insight newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr has criticized the handlers of President Akufo Addo over his comments at the recently held Bar Conference.



The President speaking at the conference described former President John Mahama as a perennial candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and criticized him for alleging that he (Akufo-Addo) had packed the courts with Judges who are members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).



Not only are these concepts of NPP and NDC judges new in our public discourse, but they are also extremely dangerous, and represent the most brazen attack on the independence of the judiciary, the President said.



Kwesi Pratt speaking to this during a panel discussion on Peace FM's morning show 'Kokrokoo' questioned "Who advised the President" to make such comments.

"So that perennial candidate, where from that, where did he get that from? Who advised him? Is it somebody who wrote the speech for him or his own speech, I don't understand...that you have contested four times, and someone who has contested three times, you are saying he is a perennial candidate, so for you, what are you?"





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
(CNN)  Two Russian warships were damaged after Ukraine launched an extensive assault on a Russian ship repair base in Crimea early Wednesday morning, officials said, in what appears to be Kyivs most ambitious strike on the port since the war began.

Russias Defense Ministry said Ukrainian armed forces attacked the Sergo Ordzhonikidze shipyard in Sevastopol, which Russia uses as a repair base for its Black Sea Fleet, with 10 cruise missiles and three unmanned boats.

The ministry said its air defense forces shot down seven of the missiles and that the patrol ship Vasily Bykov destroyed all of the boats.

But Russian officials confirmed that the attack had damaged two Russian warships and left 24 people injured.

Mikhail Razvozhaev, Russian-appointed governor of Sevastopol, the largest city in the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea that was illegally annexed by Moscows forces in 2014, confirmed the substantial attack. Videos and images purportedly from the area, some posted by Razvozhaev, show a large plume of smoke and a fire raging.

Razvozhaev later said he was at the site on the southern grounds of Sevmorzavod As a result of the attack, according to preliminary information, 24 people were injured, with 4 in moderate condition.

Eight houses were also damaged as a result of the attack, according to Russian state media TASS. It also reported that emergency officials responding at the scene briefly paused their work for fear of a second attack, but rescue work has since resumed.

Two ships were struck, according to an unofficial Russian military blogger: a diesel-electric submarine Rostov-on-Don and the large landing ship Minsk, which caught fire. Both vessels were undergoing repairs in dry dock. CNN could not independently verify the account.

Without naming the ships, Russias Defense Ministry said the two damaged vessels will be fully restored and will continue their combat service as part of their fleets.

Another prominent Russian military blogger said the attack on the Sevastopol shipyard was carried out by the Ukrainian Air Force, which launched 10 Storm Shadow cruise missiles at the facility. The Storm Shadow, jointly developed by the United Kingdom and France, is a cruise missile with stealth capabilities, and is the longest-range weapon in Kyivs arsenal.

The blogger, Rybar, said the missiles were launched from Su-24M aircraft over the Black Sea. Rybar said air defenses, including a Pantsir-S1, had brought down seven missiles, but added that unfortunately, three Storm Shadow missiles reached their target: the landing ship Minsk and the submarine Rostov-on-Don, which were in dry dock, received varying degrees of damage.

The Rostov-on-Don is a relatively modern Kilo-class submarine capable of carrying Kalibr cruise missiles. CNN could not independently verify the extent of damage done to any vessel.

After a long break, cruise missile attacks on Crimea have resumed, Rybar said. With a very high degree of probability, raids will continue in the coming days (and not only in Sevastopol).

In an apparent reference to the overnight attack on Sevastopol, the head of the Ukrainian Presidents Office, Andriy Yermak, said that in addition to sanctions pressure and depriving the Russian military-industrial complex of the ability to produce weapons, we need to deprive the Russian army of logistics. Without it, they will not be able to hold our territory.

The way to victory on the battlefield is to knock out the logistics of the Russians, Yermak said.

The commander of Ukraines air force, Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk, said Wednesday: While the occupiers are still recovering from the night-time bombardment in Sevastopol, I would like to thank the pilots of the Ukrainian Air Force for their excellent combat work! To be continued

Ukrainian forces have in recent months begun to launch attacks deep into Russian-controlled territory, in a bid to, in the words of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, return the war to Russias symbolic centers and military bases.

In early August, Ukrainian sea drones attacked a major Russian naval base at Novorossiysk, leaving a damaged Russian warship listing in the Black Sea. And in July, Ukraine also launched a sea drone strike on the Kerch Bridge, which links the annexed peninsula to mainland Russia  its second successful attack on the bridge since the war began.

The latest attack comes days after an excerpt from Walter Isaacsons new biography of Elon Musk claimed the SpaceX founder ordered his engineers not to turn on his companys Starlink satellite network near the Crimean coast last year, foiling a Ukrainian sneak attack on the Russian naval fleet.

Musk later asserted that Starlink, which has provided internet coverage for Ukraine since the Russian invasion, was never active over Crimea and that Kyiv made an emergency request to him to turn on service, which he did not grant, citing fears of conflict escalation. Isaacson also clarified the books characterization of the event, saying on X, formerly Twitter, the Ukrainians THOUGHT coverage was enabled all the way to Crimea, but it was not.
Police in Spain have arrested a man for sexual assault after he touched a TV reporter's butt while she was live on air.



Journalist Isa Balado of Cuatro channel was reporting on a robbery in Madrid for channel Cuatro on Tuesday, September 12, when a man approached her and put his hand on her behind before asking her which television channel she worked for.



Balado was interrupted by the news programme's host, Nacho Abad, who was speaking to her from the TV studio.



"Isa, forgive me for interrupting you... but did he just touch your butt?" he asked.



"Yes," the reporter replied.



Sounding angered, Abad insisted she put the "idiot" on camera. Balado confronted the man in the street and told him that she had been trying to do her job. "As much as you want to ask what channel we are from, do you really have to touch my ass? I'm doing a live show and I'm working," she said.





The man immediately denied touching her bottom - and as he walked away, rubbing her hair.



He continued to linger in the street and approached her once more, while she was still live on air, and said he had heard her accusations and she should "tell the truth".













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 schematic diagram, illustrating a groundbreaking study that specifically targets mitochondria within aging cells. Credit: Journal of the American Chemical Society (2023). DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c06898

A research team, led by Professor Ja Hyoung Ryu from the Department of Chemistry at UNIST, in collaboration with Professor Hyewon Chung from Konkuk University, has achieved a significant breakthrough in the treatment of age-related diseases. Their cutting-edge technology offers a promising new approach by selectively removing aging cells, without harming normal healthy cells. This groundbreaking development is poised to redefine the future of health care and usher in a new era of targeted therapeutic interventions.

Aging cells, known as senescent cells, contribute to various inflammatory conditions and age-related ailments as humans age. To address this issue, the research team focused on developing a technology that could precisely target and eliminate aging cells, while sparing normal healthy cells.

In their study, the team designed organic molecules that selectively target receptors overexpressed in the membranes of aging cells. By leveraging the higher levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) found in aging cells, these molecules promote the formation of disulfide bonds and create oligomers that bind together. The research is published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.

Peptide oligomerization and self-assembly into -helical structures. Credit: Journal of the American Chemical Society (2023). DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c06898

Through self-assembly of these oligomers, the researchers successfully created artificial proteins with a stable -helix secondary structure. These protein-like nanoassemblies exhibited strong binding affinity to the mitochondrial membranes of aging cells, leading to membrane disruption and subsequent cell self-destruction.

"The selective removal of aging cells by targeting the mitochondria and inducing dysfunction has been successfully demonstrated in our experiments," stated Professor Ryu. "This approach represents a new paradigm for treating age-related diseases."

This innovative technology offers several advantages, including minimal toxicity concerns and a wide therapeutic window by specifically targeting organelles within cells. It opens up exciting possibilities for designing preclinical and clinical trials in the future.

More information: Sangpil Kim et al, Supramolecular Senolytics via Intracellular Oligomerization of Peptides in Response to Elevated Reactive Oxygen Species Levels in Aging Cells, Journal of the American Chemical Society (2023). DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c06898 Journal information: Journal of the American Chemical Society
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:

American researcher Mark Dickey is carried in a stretcher after being pulled out of Morca cave near Anamur, south Turkey, on early Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, more than a week after he became seriously ill 1,000 meters (more than 3,000 feet) below its entrance. Teams from across Europe had rushed to Morca cave in southern Turkey's Taurus Mountains to aid Dickey, a 40-year-old experienced caver who became seriously ill on Sept. 2 with stomach bleeding. Credit: Mert Gokhan Koc/Dia Images via AP

An American researcher who spent 11 days stuck in a Turkish cave after falling ill said Thursday that he thought he would die there before a complex international rescue operation got him out.

Mark Dickey, 40, appeared relaxed as he spoke to reporters at a hospital in Mersin, southern Turkey, where he is recovering from his ordeal.

Asked if he ever gave up hope while trapped 1,000 meters (more than 3,000 feet) underground, Dickey replied, "No. But there's a difference between accurately recognizing your current risk against giving up.

"You don't let things become hopeless, but you recognize the fact that 'I'm going to die.'"

Dickey fell ill on Sept. 2 with stomach bleeding while mapping the Morca cave in southern Turkey's Taurus Mountains. He vomited blood and had lost large amounts of it and other fluids by the time rescuers brought him to the surface on Tuesday.

What caused his condition, which rendered him too frail to climb out of the cave on his own, remained unclear.

Dressed in a blue T-shirt and with an IV line plug attached to his hand, the experienced caver from Croton-on-Hudson, New York, thanked the Turkish government for acting "quickly, decisively" to get the medical supplies needed to sustain him down into the cave.

American researcher Mark Dickey, center, talks to journalists after being pulled out of Morca cave near Anamur, south Turkey, on early Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, more than a week after he became seriously ill 1,000 meters (more than 3,000 feet) below its entrance. Teams from across Europe had rushed to Morca cave in southern Turkey's Taurus Mountains to aid Dickey, a 40-year-old experienced caver who became seriously ill on Sept. 2 with stomach bleeding. Credit: Mert Gokhan Koc/Dia Images via AP

He also praised the international effort to save him. Teams from Turkey and several European countries mounted a challenging operation that involved pulling him up the cave's steep vertical sections and navigating through mud and cold water in the horizontal ones.

Rescuers had to widen some of the cave's narrow passages, install ropes to pull him up shafts on a stretcher and set up temporary camps along the way before the operation could begin. Medical personnel treated and monitored Dickey as teams comprised of a doctor and three to four other rescuers took turns staying by his side at all times.

"This honestly was an amazing rescue," Dickey, who also is an experienced underground rescuer, said. "This was an amazing example of international collaboration, of what we can do together as a country, as a world."

Commenting on the "insane" public focus on his rescue, he added, "I really am blessed to be alive. It's been a tough time. While I was trapped undergroundI was trapped for 11 daysI learned that I had a nation watching, hoping, praying that I would survive: Turkey."

Rescuers pulled an American researcher Mark Dickey out of Morca cave near Anamur, south Turkey, on early Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, more than a week after he became seriously ill 1,000 meters (more than 3,000 feet) below its entrance. Teams from across Europe had rushed to Morca cave in southern Turkey's Taurus Mountains to aid Dickey, a 40-year-old experienced caver who became seriously ill on Sept. 2 with stomach bleeding. Credit: Mert Gokhan Koc/Dia Images via AP

In a later interview with ABC's "Good Morning America" show, Dickey recalled the moment he cleared the cave's entrance. "I was happy to get to the surface and see those stars and smell the fresh air. That was a good moment," he said.

He also paid tribute to fiancee Jessica Van Ord, who accompanied him on the expedition and left to obtain medical products that could be administered in the cave. "She made the climb out, she made the climb back in with the medical supplies," Dickey told the broadcaster. "The second she came into that cave camp at a thousand meters with four bags worth of fluid, that was a game changer.

"She saved my life, period," he continued. "She is one hell of a woman, one hell of a caver, one hell of a rescuer, one hell of a paramedic. She's awesome."

Dickey will continue his recovery at Mersin City Hospital. Laughing and joking during his brief media conference on Thursday, he said he would "definitely" continue to explore caves.

American researcher Mark Dickey is carried in a stretcher after being pulled out of Morca cave near Anamur, south Turkey, on early Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, more than a week after he became seriously ill 1,000 meters (more than 3,000 feet) below its entrance. Teams from across Europe had rushed to Morca cave in southern Turkey's Taurus Mountains to aid Dickey, a 40-year-old experienced caver who became seriously ill on Sept. 2 with stomach bleeding. Credit: Mert Gokhan Koc/Dia Images via AP

Rescuers pull American researcher Mark Dickey out of Morca cave near Anamur, south Turkey, on early Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023. Teams from across Europe had rushed to Morca cave in southern Turkey's Taurus Mountains to aid Dickey, a 40-year-old experienced caver who became seriously ill on Sept. 2 with stomach bleeding. Credit: Suleyman Cenk Idaye/IHA via AP

"There's risk in all life and in this case, the medical emergency that occurred was completely unpredicted and unknown, and it was a one-off," he said, adding that he "would love to" return to Morca cave, Turkey's third deepest, to complete his task.

Around 190 people from Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, Poland and Turkey took part in the rescue, including doctors, paramedics and experienced cavers.

The Italian National Alpine and Speleological Corps said the rescue operation took more than 100 rescuers from around 10 counties a total of 60 hours and that Dickey was in the cave for roughly 500 hours.

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: AI-generated image

A staggering increase in the number of Asian hornet sightings in the UK has beekeepers and wildlife lovers there reeling. But the invasive species poses a substantial threat to beekeeping and honey production across Europe.

Asian hornets (Vespa velutina), which are native to south-east Asia, are a top predator of honeybees. Just one Asian hornet reputedly can hunt down and eat up to 50 honeybees a day.

Research estimates that Asian hornets could cost the French economy 30.8 million (26.4 million) every year in a worst case scenario.

But their menace extends beyond bees in a hive. Asian hornets also prey on native pollinators such as bumblebees, so can have a serious impact on the pollination services these creatures provide.

Asian hornets don't just eat other bees. They also scare them away from flowers. One study found that flower visits by bumblebees and hoverflies dropped substantially in the presence of these predators.

Asian hornets were first recorded in the UK in 2016 when worker hornets were seen foraging at an apiary near Tetbury in Gloucestershire. Since then, vigilant members of the public and beekeepers have found and identified 43 Asian hornet nests in the UKmainly in southern counties such as Kent, Hampshire and Devon.

So far, there have been more confirmed UK sightings of the Asian hornet in 2023 than there were in all the previous years combined. Despite the occasional suggestion that the Asian hornet may have become established in the UK, there is no evidence yet that these insects can survive British winters.

The spread of invasive Asian hornets mirrors a global trend. According to a recent report by the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, invasive species are linked to 60% of global plant and animal extinctions. Their implicit economic cost stands at around US$420 billion (335 billion) each year.

Crossing the border

The Asian hornet (also known as the yellow-legged hornet) first came to Europe in 2004, where it was spotted in the Lot-et-Garonne region of south-western France. It was supposedly brought to Europe by mistake in a shipment of imported pottery from China.

Asian hornets have since spread into several neighboring countries, including Spain, Portugal, Germany and the UK. The UK sightings so far in 2023 are clustered around the coast in Kent, Dorset, Hampshire, Plymouth and Weymouth.

Genetic analyses carried out by the National Bee Unit, which runs bee health programs in England and Wales, suggest that the Asian hornets found in the UK all have the same heritage as the population on mainland Europe. This implies that they are crossing the channel from France on maritime winds with regular re-invasions each year.

It's plausible that the higher summer temperatures seen throughout Europe in 2023 may have driven the recent increase in sightings in the UK. Hornets need warm weather, like they have in Asia, to survive. So warmer summers make it more likely that they will cross over to the UK from Europe and survive long enough to be spotted by people.

Scientists aren't yet sure what has caused 2023's mass invasion. But a study, led by the UK Center for Ecology and Hydrology, to investigate the underlying factors is underway.

Why they're a threat

Beekeeping is not just a European enterprise. There are over 45 million honeybee hives across Asia, housing nearly half of the world's honeybees. All of these bees are living with the Asian hornet without much issue.

So why are European beekeepers so concerned about an insect that is mostly a piece of everyday life for beekeepers in Asia? The secret is in the breeding.

European beekeeping has never had to account for a significant predatory threat like the Asian hornet. The European hornet (Vespa crabro), for example, looks similar to the Asian hornet and is nearly double the size. But this species poses very little threat to people or to bees.

The giant woodwasp (Urocerus gigas) is found throughout Europe too, and can grow to about 5cm long (roughly the size of a house key). However, this species is completely harmless and quite gentle-mannered.

Due to the scarcity of native predators, European beekeepers have been intentionally breeding bees that are easier to handle and capable of producing larger quantities of honey. Consequently, these bees are defenseless against a formidable predator like the Asian hornet.

Several bee species throughout Japan, China and South Korea are significantly more adept at warding off Asian hornet attacks than their European counterparts. The giant honeybee (Apis dorsata) is so large that it uses its body mass to smother a hornet. Meanwhile, her sisters swarm the invader, gradually heating it up and cooking it alivequite an effective defense.

How to spot them

Asian hornets are slightly smaller than the European hornet. They have a dark brown thorax, yellow-tipped legs, a black head and an orange face. However, the Asian hornet's potentially most distinctive characteristic is its abdomen, which is dark brown with a fourth segment that is almost entirely orange.

If you suspect you have an Asian hornet in your area, the UK Center for Ecology and Hydrology has been spearheading a national monitoring program. Remember to include full location details.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: AI-generated image

According to the World Health Organization, around 16 percent of the world's population, just over one billion people, are living with a disability. In Canada, research shows that up to 30 percent of Canadians are living with a disability. That includes people with mental health conditions, mobility issues or visual and hearing loss. It also includes people who may not fall under traditional definitions of disability, such as those with auto-immune or other chronic conditions.

The reality is that most, if not all of us, will experience a disability at some point in our liveswhether individually or through providing support and care to a loved one.

Canada has set an ambitious goal to become a "barrier-free society by 2040." But Canada's governments have yet to implement a coherent strategy to achieve an inclusive society.

In a recent survey of 1,108 Canadians conducted for the CSA Group's Public Policy Center, 35 percent of respondents self-identified as having a disability.

The survey used the more expansive definition of disability outlined in the Accessible Canada Act (ACA) which came into force in 2019. This definition includes "any physical, mental, intellectual, cognitive, learning, communication or sensory impairment" which can be "permanent, temporary or episodic in nature."

Systemic challenges

Canada has policies in place to ensure equity, access and support for those living with a disability. This includes federal and provincial accessibility standards, income support programs and tax benefits, among others.

Yet, progress on inclusion remains elusive. Canadians with disabilities continue to have lower educational attainment and labor market participation than Canadians without disabilities. They are also more likely to live below the poverty line and experience homelessness. They continue to confront frequent discrimination and human rights violations.

Pervasive misconceptions about disabilities, flawed income support systems and inadequate enforcement of regulations are among the systemic challenges that contribute to this status quo.

Greater inclusivity needed

A fully inclusive society could generate an economic benefit of $337 billionthe equivalent of approximately 17 percent of Canada's GDP. Moreover, when systems are designed to accommodate those facing the most significant barriers, everyone benefits. Just think of a curb cut that makes streets accessible for wheelchair users. It also improves mobility for anyone using strollers, walkers, shopping carts or bikes.

For this future to become reality, the bar must be set much higher. Whether in the design of benefit programs or physical spaces, the level of support provided often falls far short of actual needs.

For example, social assistance programs for people with disabilities leave most recipients below the poverty line in every province. The forthcoming Canada Disability Benefit presents a significant opportunity to rectify decades of inadequate support, but as people with disabilities have warned, only careful design will ensure that thousands of people are indeed lifted out of poverty.

People must be meaningfully involved in making decisions that directly impact their well-being. Encouragingly, the "Nothing About Us Without Us" principle is being embedded in the federal government's disability consultations and decision-making processes. However, more should be done to ensure policies are responsive to communities that are often overlooked, such as historically marginalized groups, including Indigenous Peoples.

A holistic approach

A new approach to disability must better reflect its multidimensional and evolving nature. Currently, assistance programs can be too difficult to access for those experiencing episodic or invisible disabilities.

In fact, 61 percent of Canadians with disabilities experience conditions which worsen, improve or fluctuate over time. While there is no perfect definition of disability, the ACA's more inclusive definition should be adopted more widely within federal and provincial disability policy and programs.

Finally, policymakers must become more attuned to how their decisions can either promoteor diminishthe potential of people with disabilities.

A more holistic approach could shift responsibility for disability inclusion into more central ministries. Nova Scotia, for example, placed its Accessibility Directorate in its Justice Department. This can help co-ordinate policy-making and also signal that disability inclusion is a key government priority.

The federal government and five provinces (Ontario, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, British Columbia and Newfoundland and Labrador) are in various stages of developing and implementing legislation around accessibility in employment, education and transportation. Some local variance will always be needed, however, governments should work closely to share best practices and encourage faster implementation.

Becoming a barrier-free society by 2040 will require tremendous efforts by our governments and partners in the private and non-profit sectors. A new approach is needed to maximize our chances of getting there: One that centers people and their rights and reflects the different ways people experience disabilities.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Schematic structure of a sensor for the detection of viral pathogens. Credit: TUD

The outbreak of the COVID pandemic in 2020 has once again shown how important reliable and rapid detection methods are to initiate effective measures to combat a pandemic. Scientists from the Chair of Materials Science and Nanotechnology at TU Dresden (TUD) have made considerable progress in the development of highly innovative solutions for the detection of viral pathogens in two studies they presented recently.

The results of their work have now been published in the journals ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces and Advanced Materials Interfaces.

Customized, powerful and adaptable nanoelectronic sensors represent a promising approach to fighting both current and future pandemics. These sensors not only enable conventional diagnosis in cases of suspected outbreaks, but also a continuous monitoring of ambient air in buses, trains, schools or health care facilities. This means that appropriate and immediate measures can be taken as soon viruses appear.

Since 2020, the Dresden scientists have been working intensively on the development of miniaturized sensors for the accurate and efficient detection of SARS-CoV-2 antigens. In addition to the TUD team led by Prof. Gianaurelio Cuniberti and Dr. Bergoi Ibarlucea, scientists from the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) in Hamburg, the Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research (IPF) Dresden and the Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) in Korea were also involved in the two studies.

Sybodies: A revolution in biological recognition

The first study, published in the journal ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, describes a groundbreaking innovative approach that significantly increases accuracy and speed of SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection. It involves inserting synthetic nanobodies, known as sybodies, into biosensors as receptors.

"Sybodies represent a rapid, sustainable and ethically sound alternative that, unlike conventional antibodies, is developed and manufactured using non-animal methods," said Prof. Gianaurelio Cuniberti, who coordinated both studies with Dr. Bergoi Ibarlucea.

"Another key advantage of using sybodies is their smaller size compared to antibodies, so biological recognition processes can take place much closer to the sensor surface, increasing signal strength and making the sensors much faster and more sensitive," he adds. Initial tests have been successfully conducted with silicon nanowire-based field-effect transistors modified with sybodies, demonstrating the great application potential of this approach.

Overcoming the loss of sensitivity in biological fluids

In the second paper, published in the journal Advanced Materials Interfaces, the team investigated the increasing the sensitivity of the sensors when they operate in biological fluids. Such samples have a complex molecular composition, which severely limits the sensor's detection range.

To solve this problem, the scientists developed a special surface modification with a hydrogel based on the dielectric polymer polyethylene glycol. This allows measurements to be taken directly in saliva and other samples from patients, and eliminates the need for time-consuming and costly sample preparation steps.

More information: Chi Zhang et al, Sybodies as Novel Bioreceptors toward Field-Effect Transistor-Based Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Antigens, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2023). DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c06073 Alexandra Parichenko et al, HydrogelGated Silicon Nanotransistors for SARSCoV2 Antigen Detection in Physiological Ionic Strength, Advanced Materials Interfaces (2023). DOI: 10.1002/admi.202300391 Journal information: ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces
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:

By comparing historical and modern genomes, Sanchez Barrerio & De Cahsan Westbury et al. uncovered the extent of human-mediated loss of population diversity in black rhinoceros. Credit: Binia De Cahsan Westbury

The iconic African black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) faces an uncertain future after intense poaching caused a 98% decline in wild populations from 1960 to 1995. While numbers are currently increasing, the animal remains critically endangered.

The historical range of the black rhinoceros covered vast swaths of sub-Saharan Africa, but today's remaining individuals inhabit just a handful of protected areas. The survival of the black rhinoceros within the fragmented remains of its natural habitat relies on dedicated conservation efforts.

A new study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution, "Historic Sampling of a Vanishing Beast: Population Structure and Diversity in the Black Rhinoceros", reshapes our understanding of the evolutionary and natural history of the black rhinoceros, opening a window into the species' genetic past while urging us to forge a path toward its conservation.

The study characterizes the population structure and genomic diversity of the black rhinoceros, both before and after its range-wide collapse in the last century, providing a model for how genetic diversity is shaped during population contractions.

"The only way to really explore this is to use species with well documented, temporal collections that are also tied to good demographic records," says Thomas Gilbert, one of the study's lead authors. "Sadly, species like the black rhinoceros are a perfect example, given their long-term appeal to big game hunters and poachers."

The motivation for the study, however, extended beyond mere scientific curiosity according to co-first author Binia De Cahsan Westbury, "Studying the genetic history of the black rhinoceros through time provides crucial insights into its evolutionary trajectory and aids in developing effective conservation strategies for its remaining populations."

With this goal, the authors sequenced the genomes of 63 museum specimens collected from 1775 to 1981, as well as 20 individuals from modern black rhinoceros populations, compiling the most comprehensive genetic dataset of the species to date and significantly advancing earlier research efforts.

"Whole genome sequences have revealed much more conservation-relevant population structure in the black rhinoceros than expected from traditional markers," notes the study's other lead author, Yoshan Moodley, emphasizing the transformative power of cutting-edge genomic techniques.

Analysis of the data revealed the presence of six major black rhinoceros populations historically as well as four subpopulations, offering more precise delineation of population borders than ever before. Notably, the results suggested that tectonic rifts in Africa during the Pleistocene had "driven the evolution of several hitherto unknown populations, many of which probably still exist within the present day Kenyan metapopulation," highlights Moodley.

In addition to geographical barriers, the evolutionary history of the black rhinoceros was shaped by secondary contact when these barriers to gene flow were temporarily removed. "The interplay of these events has resulted in a significant pattern of isolation by distance across the sub-Saharan territory of the species," says De Cahsan Westbury, referring to a trend in which populations that are farther apart geographically also show greater genetic differences from each other.

The researchers further evaluated levels of inbreeding among historical and modern populations of the black rhinoceros, an essential consideration for species that have suffered severe population bottlenecks. "Modern samples underscore the profound impact of population contractions and subsequent genetic drift," notes De Cahsan Westbury, "with southern African individuals experiencing the most severe effects and the highest inbreeding among all populations."

Some populations showed evidence of inbreeding that predated the colonial period, which highlights the long-standing impact of human activity on this species according to the study's authors.

Altogether, the study offers a resounding call to action to improve the conservation and management of the black rhinoceros.

"For too long, wildlife conservation authorities have struggled to incorporate and implement urgent genetic recommendations, to the detriment of the biodiversity concerned," notes Moodley. "It is absolutely crucial that the new populations identified in East Africa be given the highest conservation priority," he emphasizes, echoing the study's urgent plea for comprehensive genetic testing of black rhinoceroses in Kenya and Tanzania.

In addition, the distinct evolutionary groups identified in the study, such as the Ruvuma, Maasai Mara-Serengeti, and possibly Chyulu National Park subpopulations, should be the focus of separate management to maintain their unique genetic lineages.

The study pays homage to the late Professor Mike Bruford of Cardiff University, a prominent figure in conservation genetics and a co-author of the project. His death "was a tragedy for not only his family but conservation biology in general," note the authors. Bruford's legacy continues to influence the field, an enduring testament to the pursuit of knowledge and the protection of Earth's genetic heritage.

More information: Fatima Sanchez-Barreiro et al, Historic Sampling of a Vanishing Beast: Population Structure and Diversity in the Black Rhinoceros, Molecular Biology and Evolution (2023). DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msad180 Journal information: Molecular Biology and Evolution
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:

Children's intelligence may appear to be statistically related to their weight because the relationship is sensitive to age fluctuations within the study group. A similar phenomenon occurs in the case of the correlation variable sigma and the centrality of heavy ion collisions in the LHC accelerator. Credit: IFJ PAN

The initial phases of heavy-ion collisions occurring at the maximum energies available at the CERN Large Hadron Collider continue to remain an enigma of modern nuclear physics. New theoretical tools improved by physicists from the Institute of Nuclear Physics of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Cracow will help to unlock this mystery.

The phenomena occurring during nuclear collisions are so fast and involve particles so small that they cannot be observed directly. Guessing the course of these sorts of processes resembles the work of a detective. Just as he is unable to observe the crime being committed and has to reconstruct an image of it based on witness statements, physicists try to reconstruct the course of nuclear phenomena on the basis of "accounts" given by the secondary particles born in collisions and recorded by detectors.

Sherlock Holmes's task, however, was much easierhe could talk freely to his witnesses, whereas physicists can only observe the particles' behavior. In order to reconstruct the actual course of the "crime" (the collisions of atomic nuclei), they have to create a suitable language for describing events (mathematical tools) and use it to recount what took place (with the help of a theoretical model of the phenomenon), and then compare whether the "testimony" thus obtained agrees with what the recorded particles appear to "say".

Particularly difficult processes to study include phenomena occurring in the early stages of heavy-ion collisions in the LHC accelerator, when a quark-gluon plasma may be formed. This is a state of matter in which quarks and gluons behave like free particles (in the world around us, quarks and gluons are always bound by the strong interactions and remain inside hadrons, i.e. protons or neutrons).

The quark-gluon plasma ends extremely quickly because it cools as it expands. Quarks and gluons are then trapped again in hadrons, creating secondary particles that are registered in detectors. It can be concluded whether a quark-gluon plasma was created by analyzing the so-called forward-backward correlations between particles produced in collisions.

"Forward-backward correlations measure the relationship between the number of particles produced forward and backward when beams of heavy ions collide. Although these correlations concern particles very far apart, they carry information about the early stage of the collision. This is because the correlations between the particles emitted forward and backward could only have formed before the particles moved away from each other, i.e. at the beginning of the collision," says Dr. Iwona Sputowska of the Institute of Nuclear Physics of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IFJ PAN) in Cracow, a physicist who is a member of the ALICE scientific collaboration at the LHC.

The problem with correlations, however, is that, used incompetently, they can lead to false conclusions. Suppose, for example, we conduct a study of children's intelligence in all the forms of a primary school. A correlation might then be found whereby the more intelligent a child is, the more they... weigh.

However, we know that in reality intelligence and weight are correlated to another variable: the age of the child. So if we narrow down our study to children of the same age, the correlation between their intelligence and weight drops dramatically. The correlation between intelligence and weight is therefore sensitive to age fluctuations in the group of childrenthere are a lot of children of different ages in the whole school, but within the same form the age differences are small.

We encounter an analogous challenge when examining correlations in heavy ion collisions. The relationship between the number of particles produced forward and backward is sensitive to fluctuations in the way the two atomic nuclei collided with each other, such as whether they collided centrally or just brushed against each other.

To deal with this problem, the concept of strongly intensive variables was introduced. These quantities are defined so that they depend neither on how the two ions collided with each other nor on how much the geometry of the collision fluctuated in the group of studied events.

A strongly intensive correlation variable is sigma. It was intended to provide information about the way in which the average source produces secondary particles. However, while analyzing data collected in the collisions of lead-lead and xenon-xenon nuclei as part of the ALICE experiment, Dr. Sputowska noticed that none of the most popular models used to describe these phenomena corresponds to the behavior of the sigma variable.

"There could only be one conclusion. Since our models do not correctly describe the experimental data for the highest-energy collisions available at the LHC, it means that we are incorrectly modeling how the average source produces secondary particles," says Dr. Sputowska.

Unexpectedly, collision models proposed over 45 years ago by theoreticians from Cracow turned out to be helpful in understanding the behavior of sigma. They treated collisions of heavy atomic nuclei as multiple collisions of single nucleons of one nucleus with single nucleons of the other nucleus (in the wounded nucleon model) or as collisions not of protons and neutrons, but of quarks (in the wounded quark model).

In these models, it is assumed that single, independent sources are responsible for the production of secondary particles, which are either nucleons or quarks, respectively.

Previous models have assumed that the average source generates secondary particles with the same forward and backward probabilities. Sigma, by definition, should then be equal to one. It turns out that its actual dependance on the geometry of collision can be reproduced if one allows for the possibility that the average source emits particles forward with a slightly different probability than backward.

In the wounded nucleon model, an extra term then appears in the sigma formula, depending on the collision geometry, and sigma ceases to be a strongly intensive variable.

However, this situation gives rise to an intriguing contradiction, for sigma loses its status as a strongly intensive variable and yet correctly describes experimental data that do not depend on changes in collision geometry.

Why? The solution to the problem turned out to be in the fact that in the wounded source model sigma always gives the values of the forward-backward correlation for the average number of wounded nucleons/quarks, i.e. for the average collision geometry in a given collision group. This situation can be compared to measuring the correlation between intelligence and weight of children in a group where the average age of the child is fixed.

"A detailed understanding of the nature of sigma allowed us to determine the fragmentation function, linking the number of particles produced by nucleons in the model with the number of particles measured in the detectors. For the first time, for the highest collision energies at the LHC, we have been able to construct tools that allow us to reliably falsify this highly intriguing sigma behavior," Dr. Sputowska concludes.

The research is published in the journal Physical Review C.

More information: Iwona Sputowska, Forward-backward correlations with the  quantity in the wounded-constituent framework at energies available at the CERN Large Hadron Collider, Physical Review C (2023). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevC.108.014903 Journal information: Physical Review C

Provided by The Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences
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:

Maduro arrived in Beijing on Tuesday after a tour of Shanghai and other Chinese cities.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said his country could send its first astronauts to the Moon in a Chinese spacecraft, hailing on Thursday a scientific cooperation agreement he reached with President Xi Jinping.

Maduro, whose oil-rich country is in profound economic crisis, has been in China since last week. In Beijing on Wednesday, he met with Xi, with the pair agreeing to "upgrade" ties between their governments.

Maduro announced during his meeting with Xi on Wednesday that the two countries had agreed to train young Venezuelan astronauts in China, with plans to eventually send them to the Moon.

A special task team "on scientific, technological, industrial and aerospace cooperation will sooner rather than later (send) the first Venezuelan man and woman to the moon in a Chinese spacecraft", Maduro said.

"Very soon, Venezuelan youth will come here to prepare as astronauts in Chinese schools," he said.

China is pursuing plans to send a crewed mission to the Moon by 2030 and build a base there.

The world's second-largest economy has invested billions of dollars in its military-run space program in a push to catch up with the United States and Russia.

China maintains close relations with the internationally isolated Maduro government and is one of Venezuela's main creditors.

The Latin American country's GDP fell 80 percent in a decade due to the effect of its economic crisis, with citizens struggling to access basic necessities and millions having fled the country.

'Airtight partnership'

In a video posted Thursday on social media, Maduro said, "Where we're heading is for the Moon, to a splendid era for China and Venezuela."

He said the two countries "have declared the relationship as an airtight and strategic partnership for all times".

And speaking at a press conference Thursday as he wrapped up the trip, Maduro said China and Venezuela had entered "a splendid stage in economic, cultural, educational, civilisational, scientific achievements".

"We had never achieved a document of the depth, strategic importance and consensus of this document," Maduro said.

He also showed off two gifts from Xi, including a Huawei folding mobile phone.

"It is the most secure phone, impossible to break into," he said.

The two sides said in an agreement signed on Wednesday they "are close friends of mutual trust, good partners of common development, and dear partners of strategic collaboration".

It also reiterated Venezuela's interest in joining the BRICS group of major emerging economies that held its most recent summit in August in Johannesburg.

The original grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa announced at that summit its admission of six new countries, including Argentina.

Venezuela "can contribute significant strengths to the group's energy agenda, as a reliable supplier and the country with the largest proven oil reserves and the fourth-largest natural gas reserve worldwide", Wednesday's agreement said.

 2023 AFP
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Ahead of the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit from 25-27 September, and to mark the 70th anniversary of the United Nations, a 10-minute film introducing the Sustainable Development Goals is projected onto the UN Headquarters in New York. Credit: UN Photo/Cia Pak 22 September 2015. United Nations, New York. Photo # 643590

On 1819 September, the United Nations will convene a major summit to review the state of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)the 17 global goals that governments agreed upon in 2015 to guide action towards a prosperous and just future. With research showing that the SDGs have since then had little political impact, the UN Summit must pave the way for four major changes in how the SDGs are implemented and governed globally, argues an international group of experts in Science.

The article, based on research led by Utrecht University in the Netherlands, brought together a group of scholars with broad expertise in global sustainability governance.

"Our research has shown that the SDGs lack any sizeable impact on political systems," argues Frank Biermann, professor at Utrecht University and the lead author of this study. He continues, "Now is the moment for change. Governments must urgently launch a process to strengthen the SDG framework through four make-or-break reform measures."

Four reforms needed

First, the expert group calls for the SDGs to be strengthened in a way that commits high-income countries to stronger and more concrete action. So far, wealthier countries often focus on those SDGs that they can most easily achieve, and the agenda's universal approach may be obscuring unequal global consumption and emissions patterns. Also, with inadequate finance holding back SDG implementation in the Global South, stronger commitments by high-income countries to equitable financing solutions are needed.

Second, the SDGs must be adjusted to new challenges, improved scientific understanding, and past failures in implementation. The goals must become more adaptable to escalating crises of ecological breakdown, global pandemics, and rising inequalities, and the UN should introduce regular review rounds where countries can adjust their ambitions to evolving global circumstances.

Third, the SDGs are not legally binding and are often merely vague commitments. While this approach has helped to bring all governments together under the broad banner of the SDGs, it is no longer enough. Instead, governments must together take steps to turn at least parts of the SDGs into binding international law. The authors highlight the ongoing negotiations for an international treaty to end plastic pollution as an example, which is linked to SDG 12 (Sustainable Production and Consumption).

Fourth, many SDGs are poorly embedded in the structures, policies, practices, and norms of local, national, and international institutions and political systems. Governments need to build stronger institutions, both internationally and at home, to make the SDGs a fundamental part of how they operate and make decisions.

To support this, the researchers argue that much stronger global oversight of the SDGs is needed. One option would be the creation of a UN Council on Sustainable Development as a major center of global sustainability coordination in the UN system.

They also draw on recent research showing the SDGs are making notable impact through the work of cities, provinces, and parts of civil society, arguing that strengthening these networks can also play a key role in accelerating the SDG agenda.

A global agenda

"The SDGs must be supported across the board by all levels of government, civil society and the private sector. Only this will ensure that our world will make meaningful progress towards global sustainability," argues Dr. Yixian Sun, an assistant professor at University of Bath in the United Kingdom and co-author of this study.

The UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals sit at the heart of the UN's global "2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development." One of a string of recent high-profile global megaconferences attempting to mobilize action for a sustainable future, the UN SDG Summit in September 2023 could act as a springboard to achieving the goals by 2030.

"The SDG Summit is a crucial event to pave the way for a major reform process that will allow the floundering SDGs to deliver on their promise of a global sustainability transition, while ensuring that no one is left behind," added Professor Biermann.

More information: Frank Biermann, Four governance reforms to strengthen the SDGs, Science (2023). DOI: 10.1126/science.adj5434. www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adj5434 Journal information: Science
(CNN)  The party of Myanmars deposed former leader Aung San Suu Kyi said Thursday they were concerned she is not receiving adequate medical care while in prison, amid reports her health is failing.

We are particularly concerned that she is not receiving adequate medical care and [the junta] are not providing healthy food nor accommodation sufficiently with the intention to risk her life, the National League for Democracy (NLD) said in a statement on Facebook.

If [Aung San Suu Kyis] health is not only impaired but her life also is endangered, the military junta is solely responsible, the party said.

CNN has reached out to the Myanmar junta.

On Tuesday, Reuters reported that Suu Kyis son, Kim Aris, had told the news outlet he was extremely worried about his mothers health, saying she has experienced dizziness and vomiting and has been suffering from severe gum disease.

Aris, who lives in Britain, also said his mother was struggling to eat and was being refused permission to see an outside doctor, according to Reuters.

Reuters did not say how Aris received the information regarding his mothers health, as he told the news agency that he has not been able to contact his mother in any way since she was detained by the military when they seized power in a coup in February 2021.

A source told CNN earlier this month that Suu Kyi was suffering from gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, and toothache, but had since recovered. The timeline of her illness and recovery is unknown.

In recent weeks, several countries and the United Nations have raised concerns about the health of the former leader, who faces years in detention.

On September 6, Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for the UN secretary general, called for Suu Kyis release saying, everyone in detention should be able to have access to health care, that is a basic right.

Leaders of the ASEAN member states also met last week in Jakarta, Indonesia  where Myanmars deteriorating security and humanitarian situation was high on the agenda. For the second consecutive year, Myanmar was not invited to the regional summit gathering.

At that summit, US Vice President Kamala Harris reiterated Washingtons commitment to continue the pressure on the regime to end the horrific violence, [and] to release all those unjustly detained and to reestablish Myanmars path to inclusive democracy.

Suu Kyi led Myanmar for five years before being forced from power and detained after her party was re-elected in a landslide election against military-backed opposition.

Army general Min Aung Hlaing seized power at that time in February 2021, ending Myanmars brief experiment with democracy, imprisoning multiple opposition figures and plunging the impoverished Southeast Asian nation into a raging civil conflict that continues to this day.

As of the end of 2022, the 78-year-old faced a total of 33 years in jail, including three years of hard labor, for multiple convictions including electoral fraud and receiving bribes.

The ruling military junta on August 1 pardoned Suu Kyi on five charges for which she was previously convicted, reducing her lengthy sentences.

A source CNN spoke to at the time with direct knowledge of the case said her sentence had been reduced by nine years, and that there were prior reductions already made to the amount of time she would have to serve.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Aung San Suu Kyis party concerned for health of Myanmars imprisoned former leader."
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

The imaging spectrometer, which will measure the greenhouse gases methane and carbon dioxide, sits at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory in August, before shipment to Planet Labs PBC in San Francisco. The instrument will be integrated into a Tanager satellite over the next several months. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

A state-of-the-art imaging spectrometer, which will measure the greenhouse gases methane and carbon dioxide from space, moved closer to launch this month after being delivered to a clean room at Planet Labs PBC (Planet) in San Francisco.

Designed and built by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, this science instrument will be part of an effort led by the nonprofit Carbon Mapper organization to collect data on greenhouse gas point-source emissions. Built around technologies developed for NASA airborne campaigns and space missions, the Carbon Mapper imaging spectrometer will provide targeted data on "super-emitters"the small percentage of individual sources responsible for a significant fraction of global methane and carbon dioxide emissions.

The Carbon Mapper coalition is a public-private effort led by the Carbon Mapper organization and its partners, including JPL, Planet, the California Air Resources Board, Rocky Mountain Institute, Arizona State University, and the University of Arizona. A technician slides the imaging spectrometer, which will measure methane and carbon dioxide from Earth orbit, into a thermal vacuum test chamber at JPL in July. Engineers use the chamber to subject the spectrometer to the extreme temperatures it will encounter in the vacuum of space. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

The instrument is an advanced imaging spectrometer that measures hundreds of wavelengths of light reflected by Earth's surface and absorbed by gases in the planet's atmosphere. Different compoundsincluding methane and carbon dioxideabsorb different wavelengths of light, leaving a spectral "fingerprint" that the imaging spectrometer can identify. These infrared fingerprints, invisible to the human eye, can pinpoint and quantify strong greenhouse gas emissions and accelerate potential mitigation efforts.

The spectrometer arrived Sept. 12 at Planet, where it will be integrated over the next several months into a Tanager satellite designed by the company. Launch is planned for early 2024.

Before leaving JPL, the spectrometer was put through a series of critical tests to ensure that it could withstand the rigors of launch and the harsh conditions of space. Engineers subjected the spectrometer to intense vibrations similar to what it will endure atop a rocket blasting into orbit, as well as to the extreme temperatures it will experience in the vacuum of space.

Engineers prepare the imaging spectrometer  part of an effort led by the nonprofit Carbon Mapper to monitor greenhouse gas emissions  for vibration testing at JPL. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

An engineer prepares the imaging spectrometer instrument for testing in a thermal vacuum chamber at JPL. The instrument will be part of an effort led by the nonprofit Carbon Mapper organization to collect data on greenhouse gas point-source emissions. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

There was also an opportunity to use a sample of methane to test the completed instrument while it was in a vacuum chamber at JPL. The test was successful, with the imaging spectrometer producing a clear spectral fingerprint of methane.

"We are thrilled to see the exceptional quality of the methane spectral signature recorded. This bodes well for the space measurement soon to follow," said Robert Green, the instrument scientist at JPL.

"This delivery is a very exciting step for us as our team can now begin the final stage in satellite integration," said Jeff Guido, senior director of new missions at Planet. "This milestone is an excellent example of the innovative ways that government, philanthropy, and industry can play to each other's strengths to build exceptional capability that has the potential for global impact."

This spectral fingerprint of methane was produced from data taken during a test of the imaging spectrometer at JPL. Part of an effort led by the nonprofit Carbon Mapper, the state-of-the-art instrument measures hundreds of wavelengths of light reflected by Earths surface and absorbed by gases in the atmosphere. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

The new satellite is part of a broader effort by Carbon Mapper to survey the globe for point-source emissions of methane and carbon dioxide. That effort includes using measurements provided by an instrument already in orbit: NASA's Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source Investigation, or EMIT, an imaging spectrometer developed by JPL and installed on the International Space Station. A second imaging spectrometer is being built by Planet in collaboration with JPL. The teams will continue working side by side to deliver these new greenhouse gas measurement capabilities.

Provided by NASA
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:

Reports of UAPs -- unidentified anomalous phenomena -- have long fascinated the public but were historically shunned by mainstream science.

NASA is set to release on Thursday the findings of a long-awaited study on unexplained flying objects in Earth's skies.

The US space agency announced last year it was reviewing evidence regarding unidentified anomalous phenomena, or UAPswhich has replaced the term "UFO" in official parlance.

The subject has long fascinated the public but was shunned by mainstream science.

An independent team of 16 researchers shared their preliminary observations in May, finding that existing data and eyewitness reports are insufficient to draw firm conclusions, while calling for more systematic collection of high-quality data.

It's unlikely Thursday's report will change that bottom linebut it could eventually usher in the start of a new mission for the agency.

While NASA's probes and rovers scour the solar system for any fossils of ancient microbes, and its astronomers look for signs of intelligent civilizations on distant planets, its historic posture has been to "debunk" sightings on our home planet.

There have been more than 800 "events" collected over 27 years, of which two to five percent are thought to be possibly anomalous, the report's authors said during the May meeting.

These are defined as "anything that is not readily understandable by the operator or the sensor," or "something that is doing something weird," said team member Nadia Drake.

The US government has begun taking the issue of UAPs more seriously in recent years, in part due to concerns that they are related to foreign surveillance.

NASA's work, which relies on unclassified material, is separate from a Pentagon investigation, though the two are coordinating on matters of how to apply scientific tools and methods.

In July, a former US intelligence officer made headlines when he told a congressional committee he "absolutely" believes the government is in possession of unidentified anomalous phenomenaas well as remains of their alien operators.

"My testimony is based on information I've been given by individuals with a longstanding track record of legitimacy and service to this countrymany of whom also shared compelling evidence in the form of photography, official documentation and classified oral testimony," David Grusch told lawmakers.

Earlier this week, the alleged bodies of two "non-human" beings were presented during a congressional hearing in Mexico, generating a mixture of surprise, disbelief and ridicule on social media.

The purported mummified remains, which had a grayish color and a human-like body form, were brought by Jaime Maussan, a controversial Mexican journalist and researcher who reported finding them in Peru in 2017.

 2023 AFP
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Most students who complete manufacturing-related credentials in Ohio do not end up employed in manufacturing in the state, highlighting a challenge that faces policymakers as they push to create more U.S. manufacturing jobs, according to a new RAND Corporation report, titled "Strengthening the manufacturing workforce in Ohio."

Among those who earned a manufacturing-related credential from a public postsecondary institute in Ohio from 2006 to 2019, fewer than 40% worked in manufacturing in the state within one year after completing their education.

Wages are not a likely contributor to the trend. Students who enter other fields after completing a manufacturing-related credential earn less than their peers who pursued a manufacturing careera trend that continues for at least five additional years.

"These findings suggest that there is a much larger supply of highly skilled workers with manufacturing-related expertise than is currently being used by the manufacturing industry," said Christine Mulhern, an author of the study and an economist at RAND, a nonprofit research organization.

The U.S. manufacturing industry is experiencing a resurgence and faces a growing need for skilled workers. Recent reports project that demand for skilled manufacturing workers will outpace supply in coming years.

RAND researchers focused on Ohio because the state has one of the nation's largest manufacturing industries, and as such may be instructive for understanding the challenges and opportunities of expanding the manufacturing sector.

To identify promising strategies to expand the supply of skilled manufacturing workers to meet employers' growing demands, RAND researchers examined Ohio's postsecondary education system and manufacturing employment in Ohio.

The study analyzed administrative information from the Ohio Longitudinal Data Archive to describe education and employment patterns in Ohio between 2006 and 2019. The information covers public postsecondary institutions in Ohio, including community colleges, four-year colleges and Ohio Technical Centers.

The number of students pursuing manufacturing-related education in Ohio's public postsecondary institutions has increased in recent years. Among individuals who complete a manufacturing-related credential in Ohio, more than 80% are white, and more than 85% are male.

However, some of the growth in enrollments in recent years has been due to an increase in female and Asian students in four-year manufacturing-related programs. Black students disproportionately enroll in shorter-term programs.

"This suggests that expanding the diversity of students in manufacturing-related programs may be important for expanding the diversity of the manufacturing workforce," said Lisa Abraham, a RAND economist and co-author of the study.

Researchers found that the drop-off between earning a manufacturing-related credential and being employed in the sector was larger for women and individuals from underrepresented minority backgrounds.

Researchers also examined retention within the industry among the 2013 population of Ohio's full-time manufacturing workers. 77% of these workers were still employed in manufacturing in 2016 and 63% were still employed in manufacturing in 2019. The most common path for those who exited manufacturing was leaving Ohio's full-time workforce, although up to 15% left for a full-time job in another industry in the state.

In addition, researchers examined pathways into the manufacturing workforce among recent entrants to Ohio's workforce. About 64% of these workers entered manufacturing from a job in another Ohio industry, and 11% entered from an Ohio postsecondary institution. The report finds that drawing workers from other industries could be a promising avenue for expanding the pipeline of manufacturing workers.

Researchers say that more research is needed to understand the education-to-employment pipeline for the manufacturing industry and how it compares with the pipelines

for other industries, both within and outside Ohio. Interviews with students, colleges and employers, as well as surveys of these groups may be helpful to understand the mechanisms underlying these patterns.

The report also suggests that employers may be able to curtail attrition by increasing investments in upskilling workers to provide more opportunity and attract new workers to manufacturing by better promoting available jobs and the benefits of working in the industry.
Hudson Falls Central School District said they will continue to offer a half-day pre-k program, rather than a full-day option, so more students will be able to participate. Superintendent Daniel Ward said at the Tuesday Board of Education meeting that 88 pre-k students were enrolled on Friday, Sept. 8 and if the district offered full day program, the grade would have been capped at 72 students.

Although a full day pre-k program wouldnt be something the district can offer now, its something they are looking into down the road.

We would have had to deny 16 pre-K students, Ward said. I think our community would support a full day if we didnt have to turn anybody away. I think the board would support a full day program if we didnt have to turn anybody away.

There can only be 18 students per teacher per classroom. In 2022, 96 students were enrolled and Ward said hes spoken with Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner about being able to go to a full day program with more than 72 students.

However, if the district were to offer a full day program with more than 72 students  four classrooms full  they would need more space in the elementary school, requesting more building aid from the state.

That would mean the state has to approve us for the appropriate building aid units so we can get state aid on that space, Ward said. The state picks up 88% of building aid and the community is responsible for the remaining 12%...Im hopeful we can move the needle in the coming years.

Board member Heidi Andrejkovics said some students have access to a full day program by splitting their days attending Washington Countys Head Start program as well as the school district.

Families would be impacted by having to choose between the two, she said.

Also, Ward said, Washington County has applied to the state for a full-day program that would affect all schools.

CORRECTION: This story initially transposed the percentages that the state and community pay for this project. The numbers have been corrected.
The man who shot and wounded another in the parking lot of the Walmart in Queensbury last year was sentenced for two felonies to run concurrently in Warren County Court Thursday Sept. 14. Judge Robert Smith sentenced Adrian Simental to 12 years for second-degree assault and another seven years for second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. In both cases, Simental also is to have three years of post-incarceration supervision.

Wearing a Warren County, prison-grey, striped jumpsuit, and in handcuffs and leg irons, Simental did not have any statement before sentencing, nor did he appear emotional during the short hearing.

No, pretty much, Im set, he responded to the judge when asked if he had a statement.

Along with the plea deal reached last month, Simental waived his right to an appeal, which the judge confirmed with Simental.

[Read our coverage of this story here.]On this waiver agreeing not to appeal, Simental asked, lets say sentencing guidelines were to change in the future?

Smith said it was a complicated question, and whether or not changes were to apply to his specific instance were nearly impossible to answer.

I would encourage you to speak to an attorney at that time, the judge ultimately said.

Simental asked the same question in slightly different way, clearly making sure that if the situation changes, the signed waiver would not commit him to never having recourse. The judge said he could make a motion that would ask that he be heard again.

The judge then also placed a 20-year restraining order on Simental telling him to stay away from and in no way communicate with the victim, Brendan Grant.

The judge acknowledged that Simental and Grant were unfamiliar with one another before the incident but said that Simental was not to have contact. No letters, no emails, social media outreach or any other contact, the judge said, adding that a third party could not reach out for him, either.

Last November 2022, Simental and Grant got into an incident of road rage on Route 9 in Queensbury, just north of the intersection with Aviation Road, State Route 254.

The Sheriffs Office investigation showed that Simentals vehicle followed the victims vehicle into the Walmart parking lot, where a verbal and physical confrontation ensued, The Post-Star reported at the time.
Five Atlantic County residents were indicted Wednesday as part of a local drug ring, the county Prosecutor's Office said.

Marlow Guerrier, 34, of Somers Point, and four codefendents were part of a 28-count indictment in connection to drug distribution activities throughout the county, the Prosecutor's Office said in a news release.

Also charged were Holli Carter, 39, of Galloway Township; Tiahana Jordan, 34, of Somers Point; Richelle Hall, 54, of Egg Harbor Township; and Kaleem Boone, 35, of Egg Harbor Township.

Investigators determined Guerrier, who works as a barber in Pleasantville, used multiple residences throughout the county as stash houses, where he stored drugs, guns and proceeds from drug sales.

On June 22, authorities seized $90,590 in cash, two automated money counters, three semi-automatic handguns, three large-capacity ammunition magazines, hollow-nose ammunition, narcotics packaging materials, cocaine and fentanyl, the Prosecutor's Office said.

Guerrier was charged with maintaining a narcotics production facility, conspiracy to maintain a narcotics production facility, two counts of possession of cocaine, three counts of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, two counts of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute within 500 feet of a public housing facility, three counts of possession of a handgun while committing a narcotics crime, three counts of conspiracy to possess a handgun while committing a narcotics crime, three counts of possession of a large-capacity ammunition magazine, three counts of possession of hollow point ammunition, money laundering, conspiracy to commit money laundering, endangering a child and three counts of certain person not to possess firearms.

Carter was charged with maintaining a narcotics production facility, conspiracy to maintain a narcotics production facility, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, conspiracy to distribute cocaine, two counts of possession of a handgun while committing a narcotics crime, two counts of conspiracy to possess a handgun while committing a narcotics crime, two counts of possession of a large-capacity ammunition magazine, two counts of possession of hollow-point ammunition and two counts of certain person not to possess firearms.

Jordan was charged with possession of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, conspiracy to distribute cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute within 500 feet of a public housing facility, possession of a handgun while committing a narcotics crime, conspiracy to possess a handgun while committing a narcotics crime, possession of a large-capacity ammunition magazine, possession of hollow-point ammunition, money laundering, conspiracy to commit money laundering and endangering a child.

Hall was charged with possession of fentanyl, possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute and conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.

Boone was charged with possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute and conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.

Guerrier and Carter are being held in the Atlantic County jail. The other three were released on summonses pending court.
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.
A Bridgeton man convicted of shooting a State Police detective in 2020 was sentenced Tuesday to 37 years in prison, Attorney General Matthew Platkin said.

Tremaine Hadden, 30, was found guilty of aggravated assault, conspiracy to commit aggravated assault, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, certain persons not to possess weapons and riot. State Superior Court Judge John Eastlack handed down the sentence, which included nearly 28 years of parole ineligibility, Platkin said Wednesday in a news release.

On April 25, 2020, State Police Detective Richard Hershey was shot while investigating a home invasion in which a woman was beaten and robbed at the Harding Woods mobile home park in Pittsgrove Township, Salem County.

Anyone who would brazenly shoot at an officer as he was identifying himself and giving verbal commands clearly has no respect for the law and those who enforce it, Platkin said in a news release.

According to an investigation by State Police, the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability and the Division of Criminal Justice, Hershey was at the scene of the crime, which had occurred several hours earlier, when 15 people pulled up in five vehicles about 1:30 p.m., intending to attack and injure a resident at the mobile home park and damage her home. Members of the group were armed with at least two handguns, one knife and a bottle.

Bridgeton man found guilty of shooting State Police detective A Bridgeton man was found guilty of shooting a State Police detective who was investigating 

Some members of the group exited their vehicles and confronted Hershey, who gave commands to control the crowd. Hadden, along with Najzeir Hutchings and Kareen Warner, opened fire on Hershey. Hadden shot Hershey numerous times from one vehicle, and Hutchings and Warner shot him from another. More than a dozen shots were fired at Hershey, including 11 by Hadden, according to ballistics testimony, Platkin said.

Hershey was struck in the hip and seriously wounded. Several bullets struck occupied homes in the area. Hershey returned fire with his service weapon, and the suspects fled.

Hershey has since recovered and returned to duty. He was named the State Police 2020 Trooper of the Year, Platkin said.

Hutchings and Warner, both of Bridgeton, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault in May. Hadden was convicted May 30 following a trial. Fifteen people total were indicted in the incident in 2021. The other 12 were Colby Opperman, Ashley Acevedo-Diaz, Melissa Romero, Shakeem Waters, Noel Lazu, Chayana Diaz, Jenislen Quiles, Thomas Nieves and Imari Lazu, all of Bridgeton; Rovell McArthur and Aisha McArthur, both of Vineland; and Markese Rogers, of Pittsgrove.
OCEAN CITY  Inclusion groups and their supporters assembled Thursday morning in front of Ocean City High School in response to what they said were hateful remarks toward students days earlier.

After lightning and downpours hampered an attempt to rally Wednesday, a crowd of about 30 to 40 people built itself throughout the 7 a.m. hour, as a flurry of buses arrived with students.

School officials said that on Tuesday, two men stood at the same spot as the Thursday crowd, holding signs with religious messages, one of which said, Jesus Saves from the Wrath of God." The other read, Read the Holy King James Bible thy word is truth. One carried a bullhorn.

The men were on a public sidewalk, and religious messages are protected under the First Amendment to the Constitution.

But Christine Stanford, president of We Belong Cape May County, a local inclusion group, said the men shouted anti-LGTBQ remarks toward students walking into the school. Some of those students were believed to be members of the LGBTQ community.

"They were saying basically that all gays in the building are going to hell or would die, or should die," Stanford said, adding she received firsthand reports about the encounters and has seen video.

Other witnesses reported the same.

City officials don't believe any hate crimes were committed and won't pursue a criminal investigation, spokesperson Doug Bergen said.

Hammonton LGBTQ activists raise concern about possible classroom flag restrictions HAMMONTON  Local residents and area activists are raising a red flag about what they say co

Ocean City school board President Chris Halliday said he was told the men engaged with several students. No students, however, engaged with them, he said.

"Many parents reached out and are aware," Halliday said.

No one outside the school Thursday appeared to know whether the men were associated with a particular group or religious institution. The men were believed to be traveling throughout South Jersey, appearing at public places and outside other schools, Stanford said.

"We don't believe they're local," she said.

We Belong Cape May County took the lead in organizing Thursday's demonstration. We Belong board member Karen L. Williams said the purpose of the rally was not to target the two men.

"We're here for the kids to show them support, to show the teachers support," Williams said. "We want them to know that they are loved and welcomed, and they belong."

Many students departing their buses watched and snapped photos of the demonstrators, many of whom were holding colorful signs and flags synonymous with the LGTBQ movement. Some students approached the demonstrators for hugs before disappearing behind the school's main entry doors.

"I would echo some of the messages that all are welcomed at Ocean City High School," Halliday said.

Should Ocean Citys next school superintendent be promoted from within? OCEAN CITY  As the Board of Education again searches for a new superintendent, one thing is

From June 2022 to April 2023, the Anti-Defamation League and the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation recorded at least 356 incidents of anti-LGBTQ hate and extremism across 46 states and the District of Columbia. Of those incidents, there were 305 incidents of harassment, 40 incidents of vandalism and 11 incidents of assault.

As a queer person, Northfield's Amanda Larsen said the students needed her public support.

"Growing up, for me, it was a lot different than it is now," said Larsen, 34. "There's a lot more hate, but now there's a lot more acceptance. But we still need to still be out here doing this because the kids have been exposed to a lot of hate."

The school district hasn't been untouched by politically charged debates about LGBTQ students.

Last year, the district saw a groundswell of support for inclusion of LGBTQ students following public controversy over state standards relating to sex education.

Stanford's group circled the high school on a September Sunday last year, and members spoke at several Board of Education meetings. Late that year, the school board voted unanimously to make the PRISM Club an official school organization. The organization is similar to a Gay/Straight Alliance in other districts.

Staff Writer Bill Barlow contributed to this report.

Close A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. Amanda Larsen, 34, of Northfield, said she wanted to be there for queer Ocean City students who may need support. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. Pro-LGBTQ advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. Inclusion advocates assemble in Ocean City A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. Amanda Larsen, 34, of Northfield, said she wanted to be there for queer Ocean City students who may need support. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. Pro-LGBTQ advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week. A crowd of inclusion advocates staged a demonstration outside Ocean City High School on Thursday after two unknown men reportedly harassed students there earlier in the week.
ATLANTIC CITY  When Victor Sandoval coined the phrase Respect Atlantic City over a decade ago for his clothing brand, The Culprits Originals, he didnt realize it would resonate with so many people.

After registering Respect Atlantic City 609 as a trademark in 2017, Sandoval took a three-year hiatus from creating to do a lot of soul-searching, which included trying to figuring out what path he wanted to take in life as an artist and designer, while recuperating from the deaths of his parents during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now, Sandoval is ready to revamp The Culprits Originals and Respect Atlantic City just in time for the streetwear brands 10-year anniversary. The launch will happen later this month on The Culprits Originals website, Sandoval said.

I say its time to reignite it and finish what I started. Id be a fool to not follow through with it, said Sandoval, 46, who noted he was very fortunate to be in the position he was today, with plenty of people supporting his brand.

Sandoval, 46, said he was only supposed to make 36 T-shirts in 2013 for a client who asked him to make a custom shirt that aligned with Sandovals streetwear apparel, which had been around since 2011. He officially registered as a business in 2013.

When Sandoval pitched the Respect Atlantic City slogan, the client agreed to the pilot. Little did Sandoval know that would be the start of the city residents new venture.

We sold out immediately, and that was supposed to be the end. But for the next year, I didnt print anything, and people kept asking for it and asking for it, said Sandoval. And thats when I realized Respect Atlantic City means something differently to everyone.

Sandoval came up with the phrase Respect Atlantic City after deciding to create something people could be proud of, especially locals and residents. He was inspired by artist Milton Glasers I Love New York tourism slogan, which helped people show their affection for New York City, despite the rough times it was going through in the 1970s. Sandoval also saw the slogan becoming a grassroots novelty for the island, away from the casinos Do AC slogan.

Once illicit, cannabis has gone mainstream, at least on this convention floor Banking, insurance and marketing specialists gathered for this year's cannabis business convention in Atlantic City. Has the outlaw weed finally gone respectable?

For Sandoval, Respect Atlantic City was a message that could speak to locals, visitors and businesses about respecting all aspects of the city  from its beaches and Boardwalk to its people.

With the 2008 recession hitting the country, especially the casino industry, which took a giant hit during the time he was working at the Hard Rock Cafe in the former Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort  on top of being freshly divorced  Sandoval said the city needed that kind of hope.

Sandoval said Respect Atlantic City was a message for those at the top to keep the residents in mind when making important decisions, since the people who inhabit Atlantic City, from parents and children to casino workers to public servants, were the citys lifeblood.

It was me wishful thinking that we have to respect the core of what Atlantic City is, and thats the people. So when decisions have to be made, do not forget that Respect Atlantic City means to respect the people, he said.

Stephen Weiss, a friend of Sandovals for the past 30 years, agreed with the message.

His message is perfect, but Respect Atlantic City has become so much more. That shirt represents our culture, said Weiss. Its that these outside investors need to respect Atlantic City as well, that the residents of A.C. should respect their homes.

Taking inspiration from his California friends who were also developing streetwear, his Salvadorian-Los Angeles roots and his desire to better Atlantic City, Sandoval established The Culprits Originals in 2011. He registered his business in 2013.

Sandoval mixed his love for graffiti art, hardcore and hip-hop music, skateboarding and other interests associated with urban living to create a gritty, punk streetwear brand that would spread the Respect Atlantic City message in a casual way.

Why a piece of Jimmy Buffett will live on in Atlantic City Jimmy Buffett, who died Friday at 76, performed multiple times in Atlantic City, including beach concerts, and brought his popular island-themed business empire to the Boardwalk.

Something you can wear while hanging out with your friends, or pair with your nice shoes and pants on a Saturday night, he said.

He created a variety of hats, hoodies, T-shirts and stickers emblazoned with The Culprits Originals, Respect Atlantic City or Respect Atlantic City 609. He also had a spot for The Culprits Originals in the Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University, along with a giant black-and-white Respect Atlantic City! mural.

The brand also has created logos for local businesses, like Vagabond Kitchen + Taphouse, and local bands, like Gutter Drunk. His most recent work includes designing logos and merchandise for the Anchor Rock Club on New York Avenue.

Seeing people all over the country wearing Respect Atlantic City merch, spreading the message, or others across the globe in places like Japan wearing his designs, gave Sandoval the motivation to keep creating clothing and art from his Absecon Island apartment.

Theres a fine line between creating local businesses and creating actual culture. Im about the culture, said Sandoval.

Everybodys always dissing AC for whatever reason, usually outside people, so this a helps us respect ourselves and other people, said Michael Cagno, executive director of the Arts Garage. So when you look at the brand and its development, what makes it distinctive is that its relevant to the geographic area. Atlantic City has this touristy thing going on, but also a nice urban setting with a little bit of grit to it. Those types of things that can work for the brand.

Cagno said Sandovals Respect Atlantic City! mural inside the museums parking garage kicked off the internal artwork people see when they first come into the garage, and into the city, which also drives the message forward.

The potential for his brand is huge and is also unique, said Cagno. You dont see Respect Cape May or Respect Ocean City, so its a very targeted message.

She gave up her government job to become a clown Atlantic City's Tina Notaro quit her job with the state to take up clowning and organizing unique events in her hometown.

Sandoval said with The Culprits Originals relaunch coming soon, he wants to expand his Respect Atlantic City message. He would like to open a flagship store for The Culprits Originals inside one of the casinos, or on the Boardwalk.

I just want it to be that organic Atlantic City brand, like the White House Sub Shop or James Original Saltwater Taffy, Sandoval said. You can get it online, but you cant buy it physically unless its in a store in Atlantic City. That way, the next time some of you are traveling, the next time you see someone wearing a Respect Atlantic City shirt, or someone sees you in it, then theyll know.

Sandoval also would like to expand his studio, since he currently works out of his garage, spend more time with family, delve into tattooing and focus on supporting community initiatives that benefit the youth through the Respect Atlantic City message.

I acknowledge now Ive learned in this time off that I am very blessed and very lucky to have the support of so many people, and all the people that have supported me up until now, said Sandoval. This time it will last a very, very long time, longer than the 10 years.
Since the Pune Police Commissioner asked for recommendations and complaints from the public, the Pune Police Whatsapp Helpline Number has received 1479 messages.

According to information from the Pune Police Commissioner's official X handle, "Good Morning, Pune. On the CP WhatsApp Helpline No., you have been expressing both your concerns and thoughts. 1479 messages have been received up to this point. 4.6% of the document is ideas and suggestions on various subjects. They have been noted. We'll routinely post updates. Other people can message if they want to share input.

Since early July 2023, Pune Police has been actively using the CP Whatsapp Helpline number to reach out to citizens. Ritesh Kumar, the Pune Police Commissioner, keeps an eye on the city's crime-related concerns through this WhatsApp helpline number in an effort to reduce the city's rising crime rate.

In order to ensure that all inputs are monitored, decisive action can be taken, and an instant inquiry can start, the Pune Police Commissioner reviews inputs and feedback from all Pune residents, especially those impacting women's safety and others.

The police commissioner can be reached directly at this WhatsApp number, +91 - 89759 53100, where the public can submit their comments, suggestions, complaints, and much more, and the commissioner will monitor the inputs.
The National Annual Coordination Meeting of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is set to convene in Pune from September 14 to 16 at the S.P. College ground. In preparation for this event, a substantial pavilion has been erected. Consequently, two schools and one college in the vicinity have been granted a three-day holiday. However, this decision has met with opposition from student organisations, particularly members of the Youth Congress.

Members of the Youth Congress have expressed their concerns, stating that there are numerous alternative venues available in Pune for such gatherings. They argue that providing holidays for schools and colleges during such events could disrupt the educational calendar. They also voiced apprehensions that this trend could extend to declaring holidays for up to ten days during the Ganesh festival in the future. Emphasising that the RSS meeting is not an official government program, they contend that declaring holidays for educational institutions for such events is inappropriate.

The schools and college granted a three-day holiday are Tilak Shikshanshastra College, S.P.M. English Medium School, and the Deaf and Dumb School affiliated with Shikshan Prasarak Mandal. Nevertheless, the administration has sought to allay concerns by explaining that additional lectures were conducted in these educational institutions to cover the syllabus. Therefore, these holidays are not anticipated to disrupt the students' academic schedules. Efforts have been made to ensure that students do not experience any adverse educational consequences due to this event.

It's noteworthy that the Annual National Coordination Meeting of the RSS in Pune will witness the participation of prominent RSS leaders, including RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Joint General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale, and BJP National President J.P. Nadda. Consequently, stringent security arrangements have been put in place in Pune for the event.
The impending impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden, announced by U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on Tuesday, received a show of support from Iowas all-Republican members of Congress, who said the inquiry will give House Republicans more tools to investigate the president and his family.

The inquiry is based on House Republicans monthslong investigation into the foreign business dealings of Bidens son, Hunter Biden, and other family members, including while Biden was vice president. Republicans have not found any evidence that the president profited off of Hunter Bidens overseas business activities, but Iowa Republicans said there are serious allegations'' that should be investigated further.

Those allegations include bank records showing nearly $20 million in payments directed to the Bidens through shell companies to more than 150 transactions involving the Biden family flagged as suspicious activity by U.S. banks, U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson, who represents northeast Iowas 2nd Congressional District, said in a statement provided by a spokesperson.

Additionally, whistleblower testimony revealed that Hunter Biden received special treatment and sweetheart plea deals from his fathers Administration while the White House keeps moving the goal posts and stonewalling Congressional oversight, Hinson said. The American people deserve answers  I support an impeachment inquiry to continue these investigative efforts and follow the facts wherever they may lead.

The White House has repeatedly rebuffed Republicans claims that Biden acted improperly, saying there is no evidence to support an impeachment inquiry and that the investigations are motivated by partisan goals.

House Republicans have been investigating the President for 9 months, and they've turned up no evidence of wrongdoing, White House Spokesperson Ian Sams said on X, formerly Twitter. His (McCarthys) own GOP members have said so. He vowed to hold a vote to open impeachment, now he flip flopped because he doesn't have support. Extreme politics at its worst.

Sams pointed to McCarthys past statements that he would not open an impeachment inquiry without taking a House vote, a commitment he ultimately reversed.

A House vote would have put moderate Republicans and those in Democratic-leaning districts in a precarious political position, forcing them to take a vote that may not be politically popular in their home districts and risking the possibility of the vote failing. Instead, McCarthy directed three House committees to open the proceedings without a vote.

Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, who represents southeast Iowas 1st Congressional District, said the inquiry will give Republicans more subpoena powers to investigate the alleged links between Hunter Biden's business deals and President Biden.

Given the current evidence that has been presented, these powers will be instrumental in further connecting the dots regarding alleged improper payments and influence peddling involving President Biden and the Biden family, she said in a statement provided by a spokesperson. It's important to note that an impeachment inquiry may or may not lead to impeachment proceedings.

U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra, who sits on the House Ways and Means Committee, one of the committees that will lead the inquiry, said he supports a more thorough investigation, pointing to past testimony Republicans have received.

It is evident that a further and more thorough investigation is warranted to protect the integrity of our institutions, defend the rule of law in our country, and hold President Biden accountable for his corruption, Feenstra said in a statement provided by a spokesperson.

U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn, who represents central Iowas 3rd Congressional District, said the inquiry is a starting point for determining what evidence exists of impeachable conduct.

No one is above the law, he said in a statement provided by a spokesperson. Many Americans have rightly asked questions about the conduct of the President Biden, and they deserve an investigation that is done the right wayfair, politically unbiased, and transparent so that everybody can evaluate the evidence for themselves before charges are brought or a conviction is made.

Senators support further investigations

The Senate has no involvement in an impeachment process until the House actually votes to impeach the president. At that point, the Senate would hold a trial and would need a two-thirds majority  67 votes  to convict and remove the president from office.

Iowas Republican U.S. senators gave their blessing to the inquiry while speaking with reporters Wednesday, saying it will help the House continue its investigations.

So far, the FBI and Department of Justice has seemed more interested in hiding facts than finding facts, and I think the American people deserve some answers, Sen. Chuck Grassley said. ...The impeachment inquiry, with emphasis on inquiry, not impeachment, will help Congress follow the facts and provide these answers.

Sen. Joni Ernst said the inquiry was advancing the Houses job of conducting oversight.

I do actually have concerns about whats been uncovered so far about President Biden, Ernst said in a call with reporters. And I see the House and Congress as doing its job of oversight, so the House does have to follow the facts and see where they lead.
Dylan Bowen considers himself a regular dad and husband. But to thousands of kids looking forward to a fun Christmas, he's a hero.

Three years ago he started 3D printing face shields to be worn during the pandemic. Then, he evolved into 3D printing toys to be donated to Toys for Tots. And now, his donations are in the thousands.

Bowen said it all started when he stumbled across IC3D Printing, a manufacturing business based out of Ohio. Since 2018, the company has been sponsoring a program where "printing elves" volunteer to make toys for children in need. Volunteers interested in making toys themselves can sign up online.

"It's all community based and volunteer lead," he said, adding there are about 300 people nationwide involved this year. "We have a set number of models that we approve of based on the integrity, design and ease of printability. Basically, we want anyone who has a 3D printer to be able to print these designs and not have to make special adjustments."

There are about a dozen different models ranging from penguins and chameleons to lizards, dogs and Jeeps. The toys average about 30 minutes to print, depending on size.

Recently, his printing has gotten easier thanks to the donation of a new printer and additional supplies from Modern Woodman.

All of this has allowed him to increase his donations nearly 600% since he started. In 2021, Bowen made about 350 toys and doubled that to 700 in 2022. This year, his goal is 2,400 toys. So far, he has about 1,500 ready to go.

"I was always fortunate to have a good Christmas, but I know kids who didn't," he said. "I absolutely love it. They're not grand, big toys, but they're toys other kids won't be able to say they have."

Bowen takes care to ensure each toy is different in its color and pattern. His different printers have different abilities, with some able to print in multiple colors. Typically he prints in batches and prints anywhere between 20 and 30 of the same toy at the same time.

"My son is six now, but he has always loved every single thing that has come off the printer, even if it's just a block," he said. "He has thousands of them but he loves them."

Printing that many toys is a year-long process, but he starts to amp up his campaign for sponsors in July, when supplies are typically running low. When he started, Bowen had about 12 printers in his possession, but has pared it down to three. The printers can range in cost from about $150 to a few thousand dollars.

The printing material, filament, is a thin thermoplastic that comes on a spool. It comes in a variety of colors and has an average cost of about $25. Bowen uses the donations to purchase filament, then ships it across the US to other volunteer toy makers.

Bowen has established himself as the Iowa hub for IC3D. When he started, he was the only volunteer 3D printer in the state. In the last three years, the program has grown to include more printers along the I-80 corridor including people in Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, West Des Moines and Council Bluffs.

"This year is the biggest year for Iowa," he said. "The first year it was just me, and I had to ship my toys up to Wisconsin because there was nobody in Iowa to do it. The second year I became a hub, and there was one other person helping me. This year, we have several."

If they are ever in need of filament, Bowen makes sure they get it. And he goes across state lines, too, mentioning he regularly trades with a man in Las Vegas.

By November, shipments of toys from across the state of Iowa make their way to Bowen's door. From there, he inspects every one for quality control purposes then ships them off to Toys for Tots to meet the Dec. 1 deadline.

This year, IC3D has a goal of 85,000 printed toys. Bowen's donation may be a small dent, he said, but there's no feeling like helping others.

"I really just get a good feeling of accomplishment because I want to make sure kids get that kind of Christmas I always had," he said.

Those looking to donate to Bowen personally can do so through his GoFundMe, or to IC3D's campaign through its partnering 501c3 nonprofit, The Network for Adaptive Human Technology (NAHT), on the 2023 campaign page.

Bowen also sells his products in his Etsy shop, DubandJub3DPrints.

Photos: Habitat for Humanity's 1st 3D-printed home
The owner of the downtown Davenport building that partially collapsed May 28 has hired more attorneys.

Andrew Wold and various of his companies face a number of lawsuits, including a wrongful death suit brought by family members of Branden Colvin Sr. Wold's attorney has asked the court to recognize three attorneys from the Minneapolis-based law firm Stinson LLC.

Colvin Sr., Daniel Prien and Ryan Hitchcock died when a large portion of building's west wall collapsed on the evening of May 28. Quanishia White-Cotton Berry was rescued from the rubble of the six-story building after her leg was amputated at the scene.

Dozens of tenants lost all of their belongings in the disaster.

Wold faces seven civil suits with a total of 19 plaintiffs. There is a hearing scheduled for Sept. 21 in considering forming a class action suit combining those and all future suits.

Wold attorney Mark Thomas filed applications for Stinson LLC attorneys William Dean Thomson, Todd Anders Noteboom and Andrew Philip Leiendecker to be allowed to represent Wold.

The application, called a "pro hac vice," asks the court to allow the attorneys to work on the case even though they are not licensed to practice law in Iowa.

Stinson is a large law firm with just over 450 attorneys working from 13 offices around the United States. A number of the firm's attorneys are dedicated to defending clients in large class-action suits. Web profiles for Thomson, Noteboom and Leiendecker all list class action among their practice areas.

The attorneys from Stinson join Thomas and Stella Maris Strohman of the Des Moines-based Gefe & Sidney law firm, as well as Patrick Woodward and Brian Fairfield of the Quad-Cities-based Brooks Law Firm.

Class-action issues

A number of plaintiffs' attorneys raised the possibility of a class action suit, including Christopher Stombaugh and Jeffery Goodman, the attorneys for Dana Feuerbach. They said they represent 25 clients who will make claims against the city, Wold and others. None of those clients, besides Feuerbach, have filed suit in Scott County Court.

In response to the possibility of a class action suit, attorneys for the City of Davenport asked the court for discovery to be delayed "for a period of at least nine months to allow for additional cases to be filed."

Discovery is the formal legal process of exchanging information about the witnesses and evidence the plaintiffs and defense plan to present at trial. Discovery enables the attorneys for both sides, and the court, to know what evidence may be presented before the trial starts.

The city's response does not take issue with the possible consolidation of all the cases into class action suit. The response points out that once the discovery process is started, evidence collection  like witness and resident depositions  will have to be done multiple times as cases join the class-action suit.

Feuerbach's attorneys argue that "it is not procedurally proper for the city to bootstrap a motion to stay discovery for a significant period of time into its response to plaintiff's motion for consolidation."

Feuerbach's attorneys also pointed out all the plaintiffs need time to meet and discuss the city's suggestion to delay the discovery process. They further argue that "there are certain discovery issues that are not in any way impacted by future cases being potentially filed, such as disclosure of defendants' insurance coverages."

What class action means

Along with Feuerbach's filing, the suit filed on behalf of Jennifer Smith, Dionte McMath and several other people impacted by the collapse raised the possibility of a class action suit.

The attorneys for Smith, McMath and the others explained what a class action suit does.

The point of the class action is mainly for judicial expediency, Camille Kahn, one of the attorneys representing the Smith/McMath suit, said in July.

All of the efforts to seek damages essentially become one effort, she and John Flynn, her co-counsel, said.

The courts in Iowa have said if there are more than 40 claims of a similar nature in a similar group, then thats going to be considered as a potential class action, Flynn said.

Once that is determined, one of the parties has to file a petition, requesting that the court certify the case as a class action, Flynn said.

If there are multiple requests for a class action, the result would be the same, regardless of which request the judge uses to certify the action, Flynn said.

Once a judge decides there will be a class action, attorneys would be appointed to represent the action, Flynn said. Those appointed by the court would then have some control over the direction the case would take, he said.

Their duties would include making recommendations about different classes, because the court is going to categorize the plaintiffs, Flynn said. Those plaintiff classes will depend on the nature of their injuries and potentially the amount of their claims.

In the case of the collapse, Kahn said, a class might include anybody who had a lease agreement at 324 Main St.

Not only does a class action consolidate suits, it opens the door for other people to join who are seeking compensation, she said, including those who have not yet hired their own counsel.

Photos: Attorneys for amputee, spouse, hold news conference on lawsuit after building collapse in Davenport
Davenport Mayor Mike Matson is asking for applicants to temporarily fill the 7th Ward seat on city council.

The council voted 7-3 to remove Derek Cornette from office last week following a hearing in which the city's legal department outlined allegations of persistent harassment of female employees and intoxication at council meetings.

Matson said he would accept resumes until 5 p.m. Saturday from applicants to temporarily fill the role representing 7th Ward residents. He won't pick anyone running for 7th Ward, so as not to give anyone a head start, he said.

The temporary appointment would fill in until the Nov. 7 election, after which the winner would be sworn into office then instead of waiting until January, Matson said.

It's similar to how Matson handled the previous vacancy in the 7th Ward. In April 2021, he asked the council to appoint Joseph Miller to the seat, with the caveat he would not run for election, after former alderman, Patrick Peacock, announced he would resign.

Cornette's attorney previously told the Quad-City Times he would file suit in Scott County district court with the argument his client's due process rights were violated with short notice of the hearing last week. Nothing as of Thursday morning was yet filed, according to a search of county court records.

Under Iowa law, city elected officials may be removed from office by a two-thirds vote of the entire council after it hears written charges on the cause for removal.

But it's rare to see a city elected official removed from office, the Iowa League of Cities executive director previously told the Quad-City Times/Dispatch-Argus, and few recent examples exist in Iowa.

In one 2017 case, the Muscatine city council voted to remove then-mayor Diane Broderson from office. A judge ruled that Broderson had been wrongly removed and she won re-election later that year.

The 7th Ward seat is among all 11 Davenport city offices up for election this fall. The city primary is Oct. 10 and the regular election is Nov. 7.

Cornette has filed to run for the seat and has said he intends to stay in the race. Three others have filed to challenge Cornette: Mhisho Lynch, a realtor and owner of Lynch Heating and Plumbing, William Pamperin, a retired railroad engineer, and Scott Ryder, a realtor.

Emotions run high during meeting

Ald. Ben Jobgen made a wide-ranging speech, in which he touched on the recently released report on the partial collapse at 324 Main St., homelessness and gun violence. He was critical of the actions of a few people during and after last week's hearing on Cornette's removal, which he said "crossed a line."

"There are a few or maybe a couple whose words and actions are just to further their own personal agenda," Jobgen said, declining to name who they were.

"Some people went on the attack on an individual in chambers, exhibiting behaviors and speaking words which are defamatory," Jobgen said. "For those spewing accusations, even calling 911, I hope a period of reflection has made you aware that you were wrong."

A city of Davenport police department spokesperson told the Quad-City Times call logs show at 6:11 p.m., someone called 911 to report they believed a city alderman was under the influence. The caller disconnected when asked further questions, according to the log.

Jobgen, speaking about the investigative report on the building collapse at 324 Main St., said it's "provided a ton of information and has helped me drown out some of the rumors, speculation, and downright incorrect theories."

He added that he's "confident whichever members are elected this November will appropriately address what is needed going forward."

Addressing homelessness, Jogben said he hoped for future council discussions about making funds available for transitional housing, and not entertain city-owned affordable housing.

"I hope the future council has discussions about establishing some sort of transitional housing funds similar to what was earmarked with ARPA funds and then utilized for assistance of those affected by the 324 Main Street building collapse," he said.

Ald. Robby Ortiz urged any council members who had leaked a confidential memo about employees being "out of the office indefinitely" last week apologize. No one issued an apology.

Ald. Rick Dunn read into the record a letter the mayor received in June from the Northwest Illinois Incident Management Assistance team, in which the team leaders wrote, "In my 30-plus years of managing large scale complex incidents, I rarely witness a level of total commitment to seamless communication, coordination, cooperation, and collaboration with an administration," adding that "every city department and every city employee who had the enormous responsibility to step up and meet the needs of the people they serve, do so in a completely unselfish manner."

During public comment, a frequent attendee of the meetings, David Ezra Sidran, read from FOIA requests and news articles, mentioning the names or position titles of Neighborhood Services Director Rich Oswald, City Administrator Corri Spiegel, and 3rd Ward Ald. Marion Meginnis.

Matson and Meginnis interjected, telling him not to name names or titles during his comment.

Sidran ended his comments by pointing at the city administrator, Meginnis, and Matson, and telling them loudly each they need to resign or be fired.

You guys cannot claim you didnt know what was going on at 324 Main Street," Sidran said. "You did know. All of you knew. Its obvious. You need to be fired. You need to resign. You need to resign.

At this, Matson told Sidran he was done with his comments, and told the audience: "Ladies and gentlemen ... if you continue to personally attack, I will trespass you and you won't be allowed to continue to speak here."

To a reporter later, Matson said he's asked audience members not to "personally attack," and given leeway to public commenters.

"I'm just wanting people to know it's not OK," Matson said. "You'll be asked to leave. You can't keep coming when you personally attack people."

"It depends on what they say," Matson said when asked to clarify the statement. "It just depends. It's like a Supreme Court justice said. I can't tell you what it is, but I know when I hear it.

"I pray that we don't have to do anything and people come and tell us their thoughts on issues, concerns and policies."

The Iowa Freedom of Information Council Executive Director Randy Evans has expressed concern about local government rules prohibiting speakers from commenting on individuals' performance of their official job duties, including the city of Davenport as well as the Bettendorf School Board.

Each week, Matson asks public commenters to address the council "as a body, not as any individual."

The city has said it is protecting itself from legal liability of allowing or publishing defamatory comments.

Evans disagrees, however, citing a case in Jasper County where a judge cleared a man of criminal charges when he was arrested for comments criticizing actions of the mayor and police chief he made during a public forum of two Newton City Council meetings.

"If the citizen's complaints are focused on these officials' performance of their official job duties then that is not defamation," Evans wrote in an email Thursday. "This is what the First Amendment's right to petition the government for a redress of grievances is about.

"And a Jasper County judge concluded early this year that a Newton man was not guilty of a similar criminal charge filed at the direction of Newton's mayor because of comments the man made at a city council meeting."

Close Davenport Alderman Robby Ortiz, 4th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Tim Kelly, 5th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Derek Cornette, 7th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman James "JJ" Condon, At Large, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderwoman Judith Lee, 8th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Ben Jobgen, 6th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderwoman Marion Meginnis, 3rd Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Rick Dunn, 1st Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Mayor Mike Matson is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport mayor, new council sworn in Surrounded by family and friends, Davenport Mayor Mike Matson and eight council members, Alderman Rick Dunn, 1st Ward, Alderwoman Marion Meginnis, 3rd Ward, Alderman Robby Ortiz, 4th Ward, Alderman Tim Kelly, 5th Ward, Alderman Ben Jobgen, 6th Ward, Alderman Derek Cornette, 7th Ward, and Alderwoman Judith Lee, 8th Ward, and Alderman James "JJ" Condon, At Large, were sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Alderwoman Maria Dickmann, 2nd Ward, and Alderman Kyle Gripp, At Large, will be sworn in next week by Matson. Davenport Alderman Robby Ortiz, 4th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Tim Kelly, 5th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Derek Cornette, 7th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman James "JJ" Condon, At Large, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderwoman Judith Lee, 8th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Ben Jobgen, 6th Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderwoman Marion Meginnis, 3rd Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Alderman Rick Dunn, 1st Ward, is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman. Davenport Mayor Mike Matson is sworn in Wednesday by Iowa Supreme Court Justice Thomas Dana Waterman.
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias was in Washington, D.C. this week to testify before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee regarding a new state law aimed at deterring book bans.

Giannoulias, whose position also includes the title of state librarian, this spring championed legislation allowing his office to withhold state money from public libraries if they ban books. On Tuesday, he told the Senate panel that public libraries have become thunderdomes of controversy and strife across the country.

We want our schools and libraries to be open and welcoming settings for education, not cultural battlefields, he said during his testimony. This legislation aims to unify our communities and seeks to restore a right that some of us may have grown to take for granted  the freedom to think for ourselves.

Giannoulias said he hoped other states would look toward Illinois to adopt similar legislation to protect the right to read freely and without fear of retribution.

Sen. Dick Durbin, D-IL, convened the hearing dubbed Book Bans: How Censorship Limits Liberty and Literature. It was in reference to a report from the American Library Association which calculated there were more than 1,200 demands to censor books and other library materials last year  nearly double the number of similar requests in 2021.

While no specific legislation was considered in the hearing, much of the discussion centered around who should decide the content that is available in public libraries  including school libraries  across the country.

The current wave of agitating for book bans has grown with the so-called parents rights movement in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Anger about school shutdowns in the early months of COVID, which evolved into anger about mandatory masking and optional virtual learning when schools reopened, coalesced with discomfort around the growing popularity of curriculums that emphasized diversity, equity and inclusion.

School board meetings and libraries have become the targets of parents rights activists. Groups have demanded books be removed from classrooms and library shelves based on content discussing race, history, gender identity and sexuality. Several public libraries in the Chicago suburbs have also received bomb threats in recent weeks, according to reporting by the Chicago Sun-Times.

Emily Knox, a professor who researches intellectual freedom and censorship at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, also testified before the Senate committee. She said her focus on book bans began as the child of a librarian in Maryland, where she remembered being confused when her favorite author  Judy Blume  showed up on a list during Banned Books Week each year.

Knox told the panel that as a young person, reading about people who were like her helped her navigate her world. She pointed to an analogy from Rudine Sims Bishop, a retired Ohio State University professor known as the mother of multicultural childrens literature, likening books to windows, mirrors, or sliding glass doors.

A book can help us understand each other better by helping to change our attitude towards difference, Knox said. What we see right now is that people are fixated on the idea that books are only mirrors and sliding glass doors. They only reflect something true about the reader themselves, or the readers world or they invite the reader to mimic an identity or action they read about a book. It's important to remember that books are also windows: They give us access to other people's lives.

Though movements to ban certain books are nothing new, the last few years have seen the rise of sophisticated organizing and even professional non-profits that target public schools and libraries for their curriculums and materials available to children. In early 2021, U of I alum Nicole Neilly founded one such organization, Parents Defending Education, which has grown to 13 staff members in less than three years.

Neily told the Senate panel that she wasnt advocating for censorship, but rather allowing parents and community members to have a say in what their children are exposed to.

The book issue is a curation issue, she said. It should be obvious that a book that is part of a lesson plan in a second-grade classroom is more concerning than a book that can be voluntarily checked out from a public library and also that sensitive topics read to children at very young ages is more concerning than high schoolers learning about the human body and health class.

Comments from Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-SC, demonstrated the divide between political parties on the issue.

If I don't have any kids. Should I shut up? I pay taxes. When you have a public library and you have a board, somebody decides what books go in and what not to go in. Lend your voice to the cause. It's okay to speak out for your community, Graham said shortly before leaving the hearing.

In his testimony, Giannoulias pointed out he has children of his own, and believes he holds the responsibility to decide what they are exposed to and when. But he says the point of this years legislation was to give parents and readers a choice.

You don't have to burn books to destroy culture. Just get people to stop reading them. And that's where the real danger lies, he said. Parents, parents and only parents have the right and the responsibility to monitor the access of their children and only their children to library resources.

Illinois law specifically states that as a condition for being eligible for state grants, libraries must adopt either the American Library Associations Library Bill of Rights or some other written statement prohibiting the practice of banning books.

Giannoulias said previously it does not require that libraries have certain books on their shelves, but rather it aims to prevent the removal of books based on partisan or doctrinal beliefs.

Durbin praised Giannoulias for his efforts in Illinois.

We need to work together as a country to try to create clear standards for access to books so that no one individual can cause a book to be banned for an entire community, Durbin said. I'm proud of my home-state Secretary Giannoulias for leading the effort to push back against book bans. I hope other states will follow your example. Libraries and the treasured books within them are just too important to allow this rise and censorship to continue any longer.
Indian Health Service (IHS) operations will continue in the event of a government shutdown, the agency announced Tuesday at the annual Secretarys Tribal Advisory Committee (STAC) conference in Rapid City.

STAC is a weeklong conference between tribal leaders and federal health officials, including U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra and IHS Director Roselyn Tso.

Because of the fact that now we have advanced appropriations for Indian Health Services, on Oct. 1, whether or not there's a federal budget in place, (IHS) will continue providing services, Becerra said.

Previously, IHS employees would have to work without pay or go on furlough, limiting service to the roughly 2.6 million citizens who rely on Indian Healthcare.

During the 2019 historic 35-day government shutdown, nearly 65% of IHS employees werent paid. In the event of another shutdown, all federal government operations must cease unless they are considered indispensable. Previously, IHS was not considered indispensable.

Tribes in rural areas are likely to benefit the most from continued IHS operations.

Previously we would have had to leave (during a shutdown) and be saddled with bills, Crow Creek Sioux Tribe chairman Peter Lengkeek said.

Fort Thompson, the largest village in Crow Creek, is thirty miles from the nearest 24/7 emergency room in Chamberlain. During the last shutdown, tribal members had to travel to Chamberlain and beyond.

Aside from guaranteed operation in a shutdown, another major change discussed was the streamlining of IHS. Tso said IHS and HHS are looking at strategies to build and provide more workforce resources to tribes.

HHS is also looking to build water infrastructure and has allocated $3.5 billion to build water systems for people in tribal communities. Forty-nine percent of tribal households dont have access to clean drinking water, reliable water sources or basic sanitation, all of which tie into healthcare and well-being.

We have a lot of work to do, but we also have tremendous support not only from the White House, from the president, but also from Secretary Becerra, who has been extremely helpful in making sure that all resources at HHS are there to support the Indian Health Service, Tso said.

Becerra echoed Tsos sentiments.

I was in Congress for 24 years and I've now been secretary for almost three years. What President Biden has proposed for Indian Country far outpaces anything I had seen before from any other president, Becerra said.
The future is unsteady for the Charm Farm Refuge in Box Elder after owner Tamara Lile moved all the animals off the property to comply with bond conditions in one of the many court cases against her.

"At this point, they've filed so much on me intentionally, that I'm not thinking that far ahead," Lile said of the future.

The Charm Farm, located on Eagle Ranch Road in Box Elder, has over 4,000 likes on its Facebook page and more than 4,000 followers. Reviews from 2022 reminisce of holiday events with goats and parents recounting the "cool experience" for their children.

The 10-acre farm offered events, day camps for children, and a yearly goat gala. Lile filed the non-profit status with the South Dakota Secretary of State in 2019. At the time, Lile told the Journal she and her children moved to the farm three years prior after a divorce.

She originally wanted to find a place for her six children to safely play outside, and planned to get some animals. When people started to contact her about animals that needed a home, she "by accident" ended up taking in dozens of animals and opened to the public in 2019.

An annual report was filed with the Secretary of State in 2020, 2021 and 2022. The due date for the 2023 report was June 1, but no report was filed and the non-profit is listed as delinquent.

The year has been a struggle for Lile and the Charm Farm. Everything unraveled when the Meade County Sheriff's Office removed several of her animals in February following an investigation into animal neglect.

Deputies visited the farm on several occasions in January and February before they removed five horses, three ponies, and two donkeys. The investigation also allegedly revealed several dead, unburied animals.

According to reports filed in the animal neglect court case, the state vet had been working with Lile for about a month, but she allegedly didn't make the proper adjustments. However, she did ultimately dispose of the dead animals.

She was charged with 10 counts of misdemeanor animal neglect following the investigation.

On August 25, a Meade County Sheriff's Deputy arrested Lile after responding to a report that her dogs ran loose and killed a neighbor's chickens and rabbit.

According to the report, Lile told the deputy the dogs got out through a window with an AC unit. Lile confirmed that's how the dogs got out, but she alleged a neighbor had been baiting them.

Regardless, Lile was taken to the Meade County Jail and turned over to corrections officers.

The court released her that day on a personal recognizance bond with the standard conditions of appearing in court, and obeying all laws, but the magistrate judge added a special condition of "no animals of any kind at 14970 Eagle Ranch Road property."

Meade County State's Attorney Michele Bordewyk told the Journal she recommended Lile have the animals removed from the property by Sept 1, although bond documents did not place an exact date on the order.

Lile confirmed she was able to get them moved on Sept. 3. The case added to a long list of Meade County cases against Lile starting in January.

In all, she has seven pending cases for allegedly allowing dogs to run at large, two for alleged failure to remove a public nuisance, the 10-count neglect case, a two-count case for allegedly allowing a fatally injured or diseased animal to suffer, an alleged violation of a protection order, and one in Pennington County for allegedly running a flashing red light.

Lile has pleaded not guilty to all counts and chalked the legal troubles up to disputes with a neighbor.

"All they wanted me to do was to change something so he would quit calling and it would make it easier for them," Lile said. "But I had nothing to change because I wasn't doing anything wrong."

Bordewyk noted that Lile has not been convicted of any crime at this point, and the allegations against her are simply allegations.

"Ms. Lile is not guilty of a crime until the state proves beyond a reasonable doubt that she is guilty of a crime," Bordewyk said.
A White Earth, Minnesota man has been sentenced to 50 years in prison after he earlier pled guilty but mentally ill to one charge of first degree kidnapping.

Ryan Degroat was arrested in March 2022 for entering a home in Hecla where he assaulted a woman and then forced her to drive them both out of town. The two were found by law enforcement at a rest area in North Dakota. Degroat and the woman had previously been in a relationship and she had accused him of assault in the past, according to reporting by KELO.

A Brown County Grand Jury indicted Degroat later that month and he eventually pled guilty to the kidnapping charge.

This sentence brings some resolution to the victim and their family who have dealt with the unthinkable, said South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley. I want to specifically recognize the cooperative effort between law enforcement agencies in two states and prosecutors in bringing justice in this difficult case.

Agencies involved in the investigation were the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Brown County Sheriffs Office, North Dakota Highway Patrol, and the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Prosecution of the case was handled by the South Dakota Attorney Generals Office and the Brown County States Attorneys Office.
Western Dakota Technical College has been named a 2023 Great College to Work For by the Great Colleges to Work For program. Additionally, the college earned the Great Colleges Honor Roll designation  a status granted to only 42 colleges each year that are highlighted most across the recognition categories.

These honors put WDTC in elite company.

This is the sixth year WDTC has been deemed a Great College to Work For. It is the fourth time the college has received the Honor Roll designation.

The results, released Monday in a special insert of The Chronicle of Higher Education, are based on a survey of 194 colleges and universities. In all, 72 of those institutions achieved Great College to Work For recognition for specific best practices and policies. Results are reported for small, medium and large institutions, with Western Dakota Technical College included among the small universities with 500 to 2,999 students.

WDTC received honors in six categories this year:

Professional Development

Mission and Pride

Confidence in Senior Leadership

Faculty and Staff Well-Being

Shared Governance

Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging

Western Dakota Technical College is a great place to work because we have a strong commitment to our students' success and a focus on improving processes and strategies to increase their success even more each year. We take pride in the contributions our students make in their communities and have a clear understanding of the college's impact. We have a strong value for our work and see a bright future resulting from our efforts, said Ann Bolman, Ed.D., WDTC President. I cant imagine a better campus team.

The survey results are based on a two-part assessment process: an institution questionnaire that captures employment data and workplace policies from each institution, and a survey administered to faculty, administrators and professional support staff.

The primary factor in deciding whether an institution received recognition was employee feedback.




Kathmandu, Nepal, September 14, 2023: last rites of late Subas Nemwang, the Chairman of the Constituent Assembly and vice chairman of the main opposition party, CPN-UML, is being held with state honors today.





The last rites of late Nemwang, who died last Monday night, is going to be held today after three days because of waiting for his sons to come from abroad. Both the sons of the late Nemwang, who are abroad, have come to Nepal on Wednesday.





The body of the late Nemwang was kept at the UML party office for two days and taken to his residence in Baluwatar on Wednesday.





According to UML sources, last rites of late Nemwang will be performed as per Hindu and Mundhum tradition.





The funeral procession is scheduled to reach Pashupati Aryaghat via Baluwatar, Teaching Hospital, Maharajganj, Dhumbarahi, Chabhil, Gaushala.




Kathmandu, Nepal, September 14, 2023: Today, Kushe Aunsi festival or fathers day is being celebrated by performing rituals by honoring father.





Kushe Aunsi festival, which falls on the day of Bhadra Krishna Aunsi every year, is celebrated by all the followers of Vedic Sanatan religion, whether they are fathers or not.





Those who don't have fathers go to various holy places and offer tarpan, pinda and perform shraad to their late father while those who have fathers used to offer favorite delicious like sweets and food showing respect and look at their father's face.





On the day of the Kushe Aunsi festival, there is also a tradition of bringing the holy grass kush into the house, which is used in the worship and ancestral work throughout the year.




Steve and Kim Rosser, owners of Gelati Celesti Ice Cream, have announced that theyll be passing leadership of the beloved Richmond-based ice cream brand to their children, Suzy Rosser, 29, and Tom Rosser, 31.

Suzy and Tom share the same love for our family business and handcrafted ice cream. They will preserve the companys values and deep commitment to the community while infusing fresh ideas and energy, Steve Rosser said in a statement. Im excited to see what the future holds under their leadership as co-presidents.

Gelati Celesti was founded in 1984 by Peter Edmonds and his father, John. The Rossers bought the business in 2010 and have expanded it since. There are now seven locations around Richmond and three in Virginia Beach.

Suzy worked at Gelati Celesti while in high school for the previous owners. Since then she has worked in hospitality, and Tom was a construction engineer with a large general contracting firm.

They will be co-presidents. Suzy will lead the retail stores, human resources and marketing. Tom will lead the ice cream making, finance and business development.

Its been so inspiring to witness firsthand and learn from the very best. Were honored to uphold (our dads) legacy while continuing to innovate and grow, Suzy said in a statement.

Were eager to introduce new flavor experiences and expand our reach while maintaining strong ties to our local community, Tom added.

Over the summer, Gelati Celesti rolled out limited edition flavors inspired by Richmond personalities such as Bases Loaded, inspired by Todd Parney Parnell of the Flying Squirrels, and Ukrops cinnamon crumb cake.

Gelati Celesti ice cream is churned in small batches using special Italian equipment that minimizes the air whipped into the product, making it rich, creamy and decadent.

Gelati Celesti employs 250. Rosser calls them the true scoopers of joy and said that their hard work and passion are the secret ingredients to our success.

Ive had the opportunity to witness how simple moments of pure joy create lasting memories and am honored that our customers share these experiences with us, Rosser said. He will continue to serve on the board and actively participate in long-term strategic growth initiatives.

Cool off with these 10 great ice cream shops in Richmond Bev's Homemade Ice Cream Gelati Celesti Westray's Finest Ice Cream The Spotty Dog Ellie's Hot Dogs & Ice Cream Blue Cow Ice Cream Co. Ruby Scoops Ice Cream & Sweets Nightingale Ice Cream Sandwiches Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams Charm School
A man identified as a city of Richmond employee died after being struck by a tree during storm cleanup.

The Richmond Fire Department and the Richmond Police Department were called to Libby Hill Park on Thursday at around 11:28 a.m. for a report of a tree that fell and injured an adult male.

Richmond fire crews removed the tree from the man, who had life-threatening injuries and was taken to a hospital, officials said. He was pronounced dead at the hospital.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration also responded to the scene and will serve as lead investigators.

The City of Richmond is deeply saddened by the loss of our employee, and our thoughts and condolences go out to their family and loved ones during this difficult time, said Public Works Director Bobby Vincent in a statement.

Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our employees and we are committed to taking all necessary measures to ensure that such tragedy never happens again, the statement said.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at (804) 646-6740.

From the Archives: A look back at the Hotel John Marshall
Early details about the pollution impact of a proposed power plant in Eastern Chesterfield County were released on Wednesday.

The plant has been labeled controversial by state regulators, drawing community pushback. Dominion Energy says its needed to keep pace with increasing electrical demand.

A summary of the plants proposed permit was presented to the Virginia Air Pollution Control Board on Wednesday by officials from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.

To produce 1,000 megawatts of electricity, the new plant would release as much as 28 tons of sulfur dioxide, 344 tons of nitrogen oxides and 819 tons of carbon monoxide, according to Dominions permit application. All four are toxic air pollutants that require strict monitoring by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Overall it would emit up to 2.2 million tons of greenhouse gasses into the air, the application says.

By some measures, those numbers describe a plant that would be more efficient than its cousins across the state. Its neighbor, the Chesterfield Power Station, produced 25 times as much sulfur dioxide before it retired older, coal-fired units in May. The new plant will have no coal-fired units.

Mike Dowd, director of the agencys Air and Renewable Energy Division, said that it will likely take time to approve a final permit. All the current limits in Dominions application are early data points that could be changed in the months to come.

State air quality modelers will now model their own versions of the plants pollution output to see if their numbers conform with Dominions estimates. State estimates could be ready early next year.

The project will go over extensive air quality modeling, Dowd said. In the permit process, DEQ will determine whether or not these controls and emission rates meet the best available control technology standards required under the Clean Air Act and federal law for a power plant such as this.

The plant, which Dominion is calling the Chesterfield Energy Reliability Center, will sit next to the existing power plant in an industrial park along the James River. lt has been labeled controversial because it will exceed 500 megawatts, and therefore requires officials like Dowd to present details on the permit to the board.

Dominion says the one-mile radius around the proposed plant is mostly industrial, although there are some residences.

The plant will only run part-time, which is why its being called a peaker plant, meaning a plant that kicks on only to cover demand at peak times.

Legislation passed in 2020 tasked Virginias two main energy suppliers, Dominion Energy and Appalachian Electric Power, to produce 100 percent renewable electricity by the year 2045 and 2050, respectively. The law has carve outs, however, which state that both companies may keep burning fossil fuels if necessary to avoid power outages.

The companys most recent long-term plan hedges on that carveout. Virginias main electric grid has told the company that electricity is likely to more than double over the next 25 years. To meet need, Dominion says it needs to keep a number of fossil-fuel plants online.

This project, the Chesterfield Energy Reliability Center, is all about reliability and keeping our customers lights on  especially on the hottest and coldest days of the year, said Jeremy Slayton, a spokesperson for Dominion.

Slayton said the company is also all in on renewables.

Were building the largest offshore wind project in North America; we have the second largest solar fleet in the nation, and were building battery storage in communities across Virginia. In fact, over the next 15 years, more than 85% of the new power generation were building is zero-carbon  offshore wind, solar, battery storage and small modular reactors, said Slayton.

Dominion has already held a community meeting in June, which attracted 85 people, the permit said. Slayton says more meetings are planned.

The plant is already being publicly opposed by local organizations, like the Chesterfield NAACP.

This community has endured close to 80 years of air and water pollution associated with Dominions recently retired coal plant, said Nicole Martin, President of the Chesterfield NAACP. They dont deserve to be burdened with another polluting fossil fuel power plant in their backyard when alternatives exist.

Sierra Club activist Glen Besa was the only member of the public to speak at the board hearing. Besa described the board as caught between a schizophrenic administration.

Besa said the schizophrenia is a result of the tug-of-war between the Virginia Clean Economy Act and Gov. Glenn Youngkins open-armed embrace of fossil-fuels, part of his all of the above strategy on energy reliability.

Besa questioned how Dominion planned on becoming a net-zero emitter by 2045 if regulators approve the companys new Chesterfield plant.

This methane gas power plant is Dominions down payment on an investment in climate chaos, Besa said in a press release. Dominion Energys CEO, Bob Blue, is clearly putting greed and short term corporate profits over the well being of our children, of future generations.

Ultimately, the Air Pollution Control Board no longer has a final say on the proposed plant. Legislators removed that power from the board in 2022.

Previously, the board had imposed tighter environmental limits on Virginia power plants than DEQ or companies themselves had proposed. Now the permitting process is entirely within the hands of DEQ.

Prior to the event, Besa and a handful of environmental activists from Third Act Virginia put on a skit to illustrate their point. Two activists, dressed as Youngkin and Dominion CEO Robert Blue, raced to climate oblivion in inflatable dinosaurs costumes.

The group released a press release stating that Blue and Youngkin are defying state climate statutes as Virginias suffer through extreme weather and record hot temperatures as a direct result of climate change.

This year, the planet notched the hottest June on record, although Virginia was spared much of the heat wave until Labor Day Weekend, when temperatures peaked at a high of 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

From the Archives: Scenes from Grace Street in the RTD archives Grace Street Grace Street Grace Street Grace Street Grace Street Grace Street Grace Street Grace Street Grace Street Grace Street
STAUNTON  Candi Jo Royer, the co-defendant charged in the Augusta County death of three-year-old Khaleesi Cuthriell, pleaded guilty Wednesday to first-degree murder.

Royers plea in Augusta County Circuit Court came two weeks after her boyfriend, Travis Brown, was convicted of aggravated murder in the child's death. The conviction of Brown on Aug. 30th carries a mandatory life sentence. He will be sentenced on Feb. 8, 2024.

The childs body has never been recovered, but the best information from the Augusta County Sheriffs Office and the Augusta County Commonwealths Attorney is that Khaleesi died in January 2021.

Royer, 43, had also been charged with aggravated murder and was set for trial in mid-October. The first-degree murder sentence range is 20 years to life. Royer will be sentenced at 9 a.m. on Feb. 22, 2024, by Judge Shannon Sherrill.

Augusta County Commonwealths Attorney Tim Martin said of Royers plea, There are always risks inherent in trying a case. There is always a risk of loss. This agreement made it so Khaleesis family will not have to relive the horror of what happened to her. It gives us a clear path to each of these defendants never walking free again.

The three days of testimony, videos, and evidence against Brown revealed that Khaleesi came to live with Brown and Royer in October 2020 after her mothers probation violation forced a return to prison. The child was brought to Browns Augusta County home on Cattle Scales Road.

Khaleesi went from a healthy child with a full head of blonde hair in three months to being emaciated, cut and bruised, and barely able to stand in a January 2021 video. She also was missing large clumps of hair. While Brown admitted during an interrogation by Augusta County Sheriffs interrogation that Khaleesi died, he said it was an accident. Brown said he had put the toddlers body in the trash.

But testimony during the trial from one of Browns former girlfriends, Brittany Southern, indicated he had admitted to killing someone.

And there was expert testimony about the level of abuse to Khaleesi.

A medical expert, Dr. Robin Foster of the Childrens Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University, spoke of how Khaleesi had been tortured. Foster, who treats abused and tortured children, reviewed Khaleesis medical records and the videos and photos of her.

Foster said her analysis showed that the child had been the victim of abuse, neglect, psychological abuse, and torture. The physician said Khaleesis condition made her susceptible to numerous severe medical conditions, such as cardiovascular collapse and Sepsis.

Martin said all of the videos and pictures shown at Browns trial came from Royer.

And while Browns conviction and Royers plea to first-degree murder will bring closure to the case, Martin said of Khaleesis family, For them, there is no way to achieve justice.

The prosecutor said he had never seen anything that approached this level of horror in his 16 years handling violent crimes in Augusta County and Richmond.

And while Khaleesis body remains lost, Martin said, We will never stop trying to find her.
Vice President Kamala Harris kicked off her Fight for Our Freedoms college tour Thursday at Hampton University and told students that abortion rights are at stake in Virginias legislative elections this fall.

All 140 legislative seats are up for election in November. During this years session, Republicans held a four-seat edge in the House of Delegates, and Democrats held a four-seat edge in the state Senate.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin is pushing for a measure that would bar most abortions in Virginia after 15 weeks with exceptions for rape, incest and the life of the mother.

Harris appeared to allude to reports that Youngkin told the Family Foundation last year that Any bill that comes to my desk, I will sign happily, gleefully, to protect life.

He would sign a ban on access to abortion if the legislature passes it, Harris told students at Hampton. And so we want to make sure that the people in the state legislature agree that yall shouldnt be making those decisions for folks. They can make those decisions for themselves.

Harris told students that Virginia is the only state left in the South that does not have a ban following the Supreme Courts decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.

Dave Rexrode, a senior adviser to Youngkin, said in a statement: Virginia Democrats support abortion all the way up through and including full term birth. Vice President Kamala Harris and Virginia Democrats have an extreme position  they believe in no limits  elective abortion on demand.

Its not reasonable and Virginians dont support it. Gov. Glenn Youngkin and Virginia Republicans believe common sense brings us together around 15 weeks when a baby can feel pain and with exceptions in the case of rape, incest, and when the mothers life is at risk.

The vice presidents tour, which will include about a dozen schools in seven states, comes as President Joe Biden, who turns 81 in November, faces headwinds in polls, with many respondents signaling concern about his age.

In a CNN poll released last week, 67% of Democratic and Democratic-leaning respondents said the party should nominate someone other than Biden, who beat President Donald Trump in Virginia by 10 percentage points in 2020.

According to an April survey by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, while a large majority of Democrats said they would support Biden as the partys nominee, only 25% of Democrats under 45 said they would definitely support Biden in a general election.

During Harris appearance Thursday, Hampton students asked about such issues as gun violence, climate change and student debt.

Sean Powell Jr., a graduating senior and marketing major from Laurel, Maryland, asked about what the government can do to restrict access to certain guns and implement new gun laws.

They can have courage, said Harris, who asserted that there is a false choice between being in favor of the Second Amendment or you want to take everyones guns away.

I believe in the Second Amendment, she said. I also believe we need an assault weapons ban.

Harris has made a number of trips to Virginia as vice president. In May, she toured a startup micro-farming company in Richmonds Scotts Addition neighborhood to celebrate National Small Business Week. During a July 2022 visit to a union hall in Henrico County, Harris had urged more than 20 Virginia legislators to protect abortion rights.

Hampton, a private, historically Black university founded in 1868, is one of five HBCUs in Virginia, along with Virginia Union University in Richmond, Virginia State University in Chesterfield County, Norfolk State University and Virginia University of Lynchburg. Harris previously visited Hampton in 2021 to mark National HBCU Week.

Top five weekend events: St. Benedict Oktoberfest, Mt. Joy and Afrikana Film Festival St. Benedict Oktoberfest Afrikana Independent Film Festival Mt. Joy at Brown's Island Richmond Symphony at Pocahontas State Park Heather McMahan
What would it be this time, I wondered, as the protesting students rushed into my office a few years ago at Wesleyan University. More trigger warnings or calls to cancel a speaker?

Ive been well aware that students are accused of enforcing political conformity with social ostracism while avoiding hard questions about their own (progressive) pieties. Conservatives have for decades complained about protests and student demands, but today, even liberals join in, unhappy to have found themselves the targets of student objections to the language they use, or their blindness to their own privilege.

I joked with the protesters, asking them why they werent waiting for my regular office hours. One pulled out an old campus newspaper article showing me, then a junior at the university, among those occupying the presidents office some 30 years before. Well played, I admitted, as they presented their demands. Some of their ideas, like reducing our carbon footprint, turned out to be quite sensible. Others, like boycotting groups that had any connection to Israel, seemed to me misguided. We worked through our differences in engaged conversation. We all learned something.

There is a long history of student protest in this country. And todays demands from students for greater diversity and inclusion  among the faculty, in admissions and in whats taught in the classroom  fall within that tradition. Back in the day, students raised their voices against apartheid. More recently, they have demanded concrete action to deal with the climate emergency. Students have pushed higher education to live up to the ideals we claim to espouse, and in so doing, they have learned how to constructively respond to political differences beyond the campus.

And they have pushed for a long time! Even in the Colonial period young people complained of the dictatorial tendencies of academic authorities, linking them with the tyrannical British. Some years later, Thomas Jefferson tried to provide students at his new University of Virginia with more intellectual autonomy, allowing them to choose classes. But the students there had other liberties in mind and rioted for more freedom from college supervision. Undergrads at womens colleges in the 20th century made similar demands for personal autonomy and student self-governance.

The iconic image of student protest, of course, is not that of undergraduates seeking later curfews or less supervision. Its of young people in the 1960s spurning the world of their parents. At a time of civil rights battles and the acceleration of the war in Vietnam, students rejected the idea that campuses should be separate from society and embraced the principle that their political action mattered.

The Free Speech Movement at UC Berkeley was created not just to defend students rights to express themselves but also to challenge the framework of a society that offered what its most famous leader, Mario Savio, called a sick utopia of sterilized automated contentment. The movement engaged in civil disobedience to stop the evils produced by the System. Their aim was to awaken people to societys injustices and the possibilities for radical change.

Of course, many older people found this annoyingly self-righteous  what many today would call performative. More seasoned political folks  even liberals  scoffed at the combination of naivete and hubris. Older generations struggled to understand why so many of those fortunate enough to be in college were turning their backs on the opportunities they were given, while the young were incredulous that their calls for change were falling on deaf ears.

We see this dynamic replayed today as students demand that colleges address systemic racism within the institutions themselves, including examining their history, the structure of higher education and the question of who has access to these institutions. Not surprisingly, such demands can at times provoke a familiar response from older people  that concerns even for things such as equity and debt relief are disconnected from ordinary Americans.

When conservatives denounce campus progressives and radicals as out-of-touch elites, when liberals bemoan failures to defend free speech and when both denounce cancel culture, one can hear the echoes of the 1960s.

Young people today are accused of being censorious, illiberal and careerist  as well as woke. This is all part of the long, cliche-ridden history of accusing the young of failing to live up to an older generations idea of the student.

Founding Fathers complained about drinking in the dorms; in the 1960s musical Bye Bye Birdie, parents sang, Whats the matter with kids today? Today, we hear about coddled minds afraid of discomfort and challenge.

Student protesters and those complaining about them actually have something fundamental in common. They agree that college should be a time of possibilities as one learns to think for oneself in the company of others. They share the notion that being a student is ideally about learning freedom.

There will, of course, be different views on what it means to exercise that freedom. Students questioning obstacles and opportunities have long experienced pushback from those defending the status quo  and theyve learned from that, too.

And thats what campus protests have always been about: young people experimenting with the expectations and limits surrounding them as they try to think for themselves in the context of community. Ill try to remember that next time they come barging into my office. Maybe well all learn something.

17 photos of Richmond Department Stores from our archives
LANSING, Mich.  The prospect of an auto workers strike could test Joe Biden's assertion that he's the most pro-union president in U.S. history.

The United Auto Workers is threatening to strike against the nation's big three automakers, General Motors, Ford and Stellantis, if tentative contract agreements aren't reached by 11:59 p.m. on Thursday. That could reshape the political landscape in the battleground state of Michigan and potentially unleash economic shockwaves nationwide.

The auto industry accounts for about 3% of the nation's gross domestic product and as many as 146,000 workers may walk off their jobs. While the effects would be most immediate in Michigan and other states with high concentrations of auto jobs, such as Ohio and Indiana, a prolonged strike could trigger car shortages and layoff s in auto-supply industries and other sectors.

"Anything that goes beyond a week, you're going to start feeling the pain," said Marick Masters, a business professor at Wayne State University in Detroit. "And anything beyond two weeks, that's when the effects start to compound."

Doc Killian, who has worked in a Ford assembly plant in Wayne, Michigan, for 26 years, says he can no longer afford the cars he helps build, crystallizing how the nation's middle class has been squeezed.

"I think the American public as a whole realizes the impact that the American auto workers have on the economy," Killian said. "If we suffer, the American economy suffers."

Biden has built his political career around just such an argument, repeating the mantra that the "middle class built America, and that unions built the middle class." His administration also has championed organized labor and promoted worker organization unabashedly, with Biden frequently proclaiming himself "the most pro-union president in American history."

Still, Shawn Fain, who was elected president of the United Auto Workers in March after promising a more confrontational stance in negotiating with automakers, countered Biden's claim on CNN this week, saying, "I think there's a lot of work to be done in that category."

The UAW chief has also sought to broaden his argument beyond just auto workers. He said on a livestream with union members that the UAW's demands are about "raising the standard for workers everywhere."

"I truly believe that all of America will stand with us in this fight," Fain said.

Biden also must contend with blunt criticism from former President Donald Trump, the early leader in next year's Republican presidential primary, who is now pushing for the UAW to endorse him  an unlikely prospect, according to union leaders.

Trump posted online that the "once fabled" UAW "will soon go OUT OF BUSINESS" if Biden "is allowed to pull off his ALL ELECTRIC CAR HOAX. China will build them all. ENDORSE TRUMP!" In another post, the former president appealed directly to rank-and-file union members whose support helped him win Michigan in 2016: "Union leadership must decide whether they will stand with Biden and other far-left political cronies in Washington, or whether they will stand with front-line autoworkers and President Trump."

That referenced new federal rules pushed by the Biden administration requiring two-thirds of new passenger cars sold in the United States to be all-electric by 2032. Trump argued those moves would "murder the U.S. auto industry and kill countless union autoworker jobs forever, especially in Michigan and the Midwest."

But some union leaders and members have scoffed at suggestions that the U.S. not embrace eff orts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions since manufacturers in China and elsewhere could rush in to produce electric vehicles if the U.S. doesn't. Fain, who has previously applauded the "transition to a clean auto industry" as long as autoworkers "have a place in the new economy," said Trump was "not someone who stands for a good standard of living."

Dave Green, a UAW regional director in Ohio and Indiana, said the former president "carries no credibility in my book" since "he did nothing to support organized labor except lip service."

Green said he still considers Biden the most pro-union president of his lifetime. But he hopes the White House won't stay neutral if there's a strike.

"We don't forget," Green said. "When you're in distress, the people who are there supporting you  that goes a long way."

Biden faced some criticism from labor groups last year when he urged Congress to approve legislation preventing rail workers from going on strike, fearing an upending of supply chains heading into the holidays. But, unlike with rail and airline workers, the president doesn't have the authority to order autoworkers to stay on the job.
WASHINGTON  The Biden administration cleared the way for the release of five American citizens detained in Iran by issuing a blanket waiver for international banks to transfer $6 billion in frozen Iranian money from South Korea to Qatar without fear of U.S. sanctions. In addition, as part of the deal, the administration agreed to release five Iranian citizens held in the United States.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken signed off on the sanctions waivers late last week, a month after U.S. and Iranian officials said an agreement in principle was in place. Congress was not informed of the waiver decision until Monday, according to the notification.

People familiar with negotiations said they expect the detainees will be released as early as next week. The notification marked the first time the administration said it was releasing five Iranian prisoners as part of the deal. The Iranian prisoners have not been publicly identified.
Puerto Aventuras suspect served warrant on Bacalar bus for death of girlfriend he set on fire

Bacalar, Q.R.  A suspect wanted in the burning death of a woman has been captured in Bacalar. On Wednesday, the State Attorney Generals Office reported on the capture of Jose N from on board a bus.

According to the FGE, Jose N was on board a bus heading to Villahermosa, Tabasco at the time of his arrest. Jose N was taken into police custody, accused of allegedly dousing a woman, his girlfriend, in gasoline before setting her on fire.

The incident happened on the night of September 8 after a heated argument. The 38-year-old woman died in Playa del Carmen hospital September 12 after being admitted with third degree burns to more than 70 percent of her body.

Jose N was picked up on an arrest warrant. According to the FGE statement, the events for which the accused is accused occurred on September 8 of the current year when Jose N left the house in his truck and returned with a can of gasoline with which he sprayed the woman and set on fire and immediately fled the scene.

They added that after three days of agony, the victim lost her life. Jose N is reported to have been the boyfriend of Jessica N, the woman he sprayed with gas and lit on fire.

Police began a search for the man and his vehicle, which they located parked outside a small shopping plaza of Puerto Aventuras the following day. It was not until Wednesday that he was located and arrested.
Woman extradited to Arizona for trafficking undocumented immigrants

Mexico City, Mexico  A woman has been extradited to the U.S. on charges of trafficking undocumented immigrants. In compliance with the Extradition Treaty signed between Mexico and the United States, the Attorney Generals Office (FGR) of the Republic of Mexico extradited Ofelia H to Arizona.

According to the FGR, Ofelia H was wanted by the Federal District Court of the District of Arizona for criminal association and trafficking of undocumented immigrants.

Ofelia H was involved in a migrant smuggling operation, which allowed thousands of people from different parts of the world to enter the United States illegally. They were allowed into the U.S. in exchange for a sum of money, the FGR reported.

Ofelia H was arrested in Mexicali, Baja California in March at which time the Government of Mexico began the extradition process. She was transferred to Mexico City International Airport where waiting U.S. federal agents escorted her on a plane to Arizona where she will face charges.
Roanoke officially has at least one police officer or sheriffs deputy serving as a school resource officer in each of its public elementary, middle and high schools.

It didnt happen overnight.

The number of SROs has increased over the past several years. There were seven SROs during the 2021-22 school year. There were 22 SROs during the 2022-23 school year, Chief Operations Officer Chris Perkins said at the school boards Tuesday evening meeting.

Now, city schools have 26 SROs.

The Roanoke Police Department contributes another 10 SROs, with two at both of the citys high schools and one at each of the middle schools. The sheriffs office covers the elementary schools, with one SRO each for a total of 17. Of those 17 sheriffs office SROs, eight are grant-funded.

The sheriffs office filled its 17 SRO positions using a combination of new recruits and existing employees.

We put it out that the sheriffs office was hiring for SROs, Roanoke Sheriff Antonio D. Hash said. As the schools had asked that we put one at every school, we knew the challenge was going to be: Can we get those additional bodies hired?

Recruitment could still be better, Hash said, but hes seen it improve a lot in the 19 months he has been sheriff. He attributed some of that to a visible culture of change at the sheriffs office.

One of our people that we interviewed the other day, he said, From day one when you took over office, weve seen a culture of how you treat each other, treat the residents, how you give back to your community. Thats what we want to be a part of, Hash said.

The ultimate goal is to protect children, Hash said, and he believes the best way to do that is to maintain a consistent presence and build relationships  not have an SRO bouncing between schools.

SROs also have to be passionate about the work they do, he said, because children and families can sense it.

If we get the buy-in from the kids, thats how you start to impact them, Hash said. Elementary level buy-in is different from middle school buy-in. If you get them when theyre kids, to have a heart for law enforcement, thats when they get to middle school and can share the love with other folks and tell them about the experience.

Part of the SROs responsibility is to support students and their families, Hash said  parents and teachers cant do it alone.

The district also has a number of school security officers, or SSOs, throughout its schools.

SROs are sworn members of law enforcement employed by the sheriffs office or police department. SSOs are not.

As of Aug. 8, the district had 20 school security officers on staff, with five at each high school and one at each middle school, except Lucy Addison, which has two.

The remaining three SSOs are funded by a four-year $650,000 state grant the district received near the start of the 2022-23 school year. The grant is meant to allow the district to add 14 SSO positions  13 at the elementary schools and one at the middle school level.
RICHMOND  Virginias flagship economic development incentive  the grants intended to win major new projects  closes deals and boosts the state economy, but several smaller programs need work, the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission found recently.

And two tax credit programs arent working well, and should either be revised or canned, JLARC said.

The states so-called deal closing Commonwealth Opportunity Fund aimed at winning major projects that would otherwise go to other states has generated 113 jobs for every $1 million granted.

Each $1 million also sparked a $24 million boost to the state economic output and a $12 million increase in Virginias total personal income, JLARC analyst Ellen Miller said, presenting findings of the commissions review of economic development incentives to the commissions legislative members.

And for every $1 granted by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, tax revenues rose by 95 cents, she said.

Slightly more than half of opportunity fund grantees surveyed said their project would not have happened without the grant, she said.

Virginia has granted $146 million through the fund between fiscal years 2012 to 2021.

But the New Company Incentive Program, to encourage companies to locate in distressed areas has been ineffective, with only two grants since 2018, which went to low-wage call centers, Miller said.

This program should be left to expire at its sunset in 2025, she said.

The Virginia Investment Program, which is meant to encourage manufacturers to retain jobs or expand facilities, has had a smaller economic impact, mainly because of its focus on retaining jobs, Miller said.

Only 19% of grant recipients say it tipped the scale on whether to go ahead with a project, while the impact per $1 million granted was 32 jobs and a $6 million boost for the state economy.

Grants from this program amounted to $52 million for the decade that ended with fiscal 2021.

The smaller Virginia Economic Development Investment Grant to boost big job generators such as corporate headquarters, had a somewhat bigger economic impact: 94 jobs and a $20 million boost to the economy for every $1 million.

Both this program, which spent $34 million over the 2012-2021 decade, and the larger Virginia Investment Program, would be more effective if grants were paid out sooner after the grantees hit their targets for job creation and investment, Miller said.

Another grant program aimed at wooing large employers hasnt been tapped since fiscal year 2006, as its delayed payments and big targets for new jobs and investment put businesses off. It should be ended, Miller said.

The states custom grants, awarded through the Major Employer and Investment Commission, have supplanted this program.

Virginias major business facility tax credit, meanwhile, is badly designed  it doesnt require new jobs match or exceed average local wages. It also does not require a due diligence review or that another state is competing for the project, Miller said.

The program, run by the state tax department, provides a tax credit of $1,000 for every job created over a 50-job trigger, but only a handful of companies have benefited: four firms have received 70% of the $31.9 million in credits awarded during the decade that ended in fiscal 2021.

JLARC believes the credit should be redesigned or allowed to expire.

Miller said the small Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development grants, aimed at helping businesses that process or distribute farm and forest products, do not require use of enough of those products and should have a trigger that new jobs created exceed minimum wages by some set percentage.

A still smaller tax credit for wineries has had a limited impact, mainly because so many wineries have applied for it.

It is capped at $250,000 a year and credits are prorated if people apply for more than that. Although the credit is supposed to be up to 25% of a winery or vineyards investment, the actual value of the credit has been 2.6% of those costs.

Credit recipients said the states nonprofit wholesale distribution company, technical advice from the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service and Virginia Wine Board marketing services have been more important programs.

House Appropriations Committee chairman Barry Knight, R-Virginia Beach, a JLARC member, said the Tuesday report confirms his sense that quicker payout of grant funds for the Virginia Investment Program and Virginia Economic Development Investment Grant would boost their effectiveness.

And, he said, the report confirmed his view that the custom grant program  which supports the $1 billion Lego plant under construction in Chesterfield County, as well as CoStars Richmond expansion  works well.

One size fits all doesnt always work, said Knight, who also serves as chairman of the Major Employer and Investment Commission.
Youve probably noticed a recent rash of lawsuits in state and federal courts around the country, seeking to keep Donald Trump off presidential ballots next year. Whether or not one agrees with the political tactic, its happening.

The civil actions are separate from the 91 criminal charges Trump currently faces in New York, Georgia, Florida and Washington, D.C. The lawsuits cite the U.S. Constitutions 14th Amendment, which was ratified in 1868.

The amendments Section 3 bars from public office any official who previously had taken an oath to uphold the constitution, and who later engaged in rebellion or insurrection against the government, or offered aid and comfort to those who did.

One longshot GOP presidential candidate from Texas has filed a 14th Amendment challenge to Trump directly to the U.S. Supreme Court. It looks like justices could take up that case this fall.

But because an American presidential election is actually 50 different state elections, most of these cases are being filed state by state. So far, theyve cropped up in Florida (already dismissed), Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, Oklahoma  and Virginia.

The Virginia legal action was brought by two civil rights activists from Tidewater. Roy L. Perry-Bey is a disabled veteran from Hampton. Carlos A. Howard described himself as a semi-retired mortician and broadcaster from Virginia Beach. Both said theyre in their 60s, but they declined to give me specific ages.

Its not the first election-related lawsuit by Bey and Howard. Another action they filed in state court in 2021 sought to keep Democrat Terry McAuliffe off that years 2021 gubernatorial ballot, partly because McAuliffe neglected to sign his candidate declaration form. (The state Republican Party filed a similar lawsuit; both failed.)

I had a conference call with them Tuesday. At the time, Bey said he was in a Veterans Affairs hospital recovering from surgery.

Were just citizens, registered voters who are very concerned, Howard said. A free and fair election is our primary concern.

This is crazy, what were dealing with in Virginia, Bey told me. Youve got candidates like Trump who shouldnt have a dog license in this state.

While Section 3 of the amendment was designed to keep out of public office former officers of the Confederacy following the Civil War, it makes no mention of either.

In the past 100 years, its been enforced only once. That came in 2022, with removal from office of Couy Griffin, an elected supervisor from Otero County, New Mexico, who founded the group Cowboys for Trump. Readers of this column may be familiar with him.

On Jan. 6, 2021, Griffin protested at the U.S. Capitol but didnt enter the building. (Later, he was convicted of trespassing, acquitted of disorderly conduct and sentenced to 14 days in jail and a $3,000 fine.)

That night, Griffin and an associate drove from the nations capital to the Star City. They dined downtown at Billys, which Griffin heartily endorsed.

The following day, he recorded himself speaking on a downtown Roanoke hotel balcony and posted the clip online. In it, he disputed the insurrection was violent and warned of a future Second Amendment Rally at the Capitol that would leave blood running out of that building.

Bey and Howard filed the lawsuit pro se (without a lawyer) Aug. 31 in U.S. District Court for Eastern Virginia. Originally, Trump was the sole defendant. On Sept. 11, they filed an amended complaint, adding the Virginia Department of Elections and the Virginia Board of Elections as defendants.

Were asking the court to order the Department of Elections to do its job, and keep this guy off the ballot, Bey said.

The Department of Elections does not comment on pending litigation, spokeswoman Andrea Gaines wrote in an email. In a subsequent message, she said she was speaking for both entities.

Tuesday, The Washington Post published a story that suggested more 14th Amendment lawsuits may be in the offing for Virginia. That article noted a lawyer at Holtzman Vogel, a high-powered election law firm usually associated with Republicans, was considering bringing such a case on behalf of a different client.

Bey and Howard acted after prominent legal scholars from both sides of the political spectrum issued legal analyses indicating Trump could be barred from future elections under the amendment.

One of the conservatives was retired federal Judge J. Michael Luttig, who served 15 years on the U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals. One of the liberals was Harvard Law Professor Laurence Tribe, an experienced litigator before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Analyses by each argued Section 3 is self-executing, which suggests any state election official can simply bar Trump from the ballot because of his actions Jan. 6 and in the weeks leading up to it.

President Donald J. Trump both engaged in an insurrection and also gave aid and comfort to other individuals who were engaging in such actions, within the clear meaning of those terms as defined in Section Three of the 14th Amendment, the lawsuit states.

As a result, Virginia election officials have a duty to protect democracy by keeping Trump off future election ballots based on the facts and law, Beys and Howards lawsuit contends.

Were pro se at the moment, Bey told me. Im talking to lawyers who are going to take at look at [the lawsuit].

Tuesday, I emailed a copy of their amended complaint to former U.S. Attorney John Fishwick, a Roanoke lawyer who specializes in civil rights law. He was appointed to the federal prosecutors post by former President Barack Obama.

I think its a creative argument, but I think its going to be a loser, Fishwick said.

A chief issue, Fishwick added, is theres no mechanism within Section 3 of the 14th Amendment that permits [removal from the ballot] to take place. For that to happen, I think Congress would have to pass a law to define what insurrection is.

They havent done that, Fishwick said. If they did, there could be a proceeding to determine that a person could not be a presidential candidate. That would be a court proceeding, I assume.

Fishwick cited a 14th Amendment removal case from 1869, and an opinion by then-Chief Justice Salmon P. Chase, in arguing the amendment is not self-executing, as Beys and Howards lawsuit contends.

Thats been viewed as settled law until recently, Fishwick said.
FLORENCE, S.C.  South Carolina State Sen. Mike Reichenbach cant be an expert on every topic that comes up in Columbia.

Thats what he told a crowd of local business and political leaders who gathered to hear him give a legislative update at the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday. Instead of trying to be an expert on everything from agriculture to veterans affairs, Reichenbach said, he focuses primarily on a few topics that his constituents say are the most important to them.

Its actually a lot of work to go to 10 different restaurants between breakfast, lunch and dinner , and do that multiple times a year, but thats the best way to hear whats important to people, he said.

Mike Reichenbach State Sen. Mike Reichenbach spoke at the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday to give local business and political leaders an upd

From those conversations, Reichenbach has decided to focus primarily on public safety and childrens issues. Of the two, public safety is the one he said he spends the most time on and is the one he hears about most from his constituents.

People say, You know what? The jobs, the schools, the hospitals, the education, it doesnt matter if we dont feel safe, he said.

During the budget process, Reichenbach said, he spoke with Florence County Sheriff T.J. Joye and police chiefs around his district about what they needed from the state. After he learned they did not have enough equipment, he worked to get them what they needed.

In addition to being on the Corrections and Penology Committee and the Judiciary Committee, Reichenbach was a part of Governor Henry McMasters bond reform task force, which had the goal of keeping repeat offenders off the streets.

That task force helped to develop the bond reform bill, which increases penalties for repeat offenders arrested while out on bond, that McMaster signed into law in June.

Bond reform was so necessary because the violent criminals, on a rotating basis, they would get arrested on a Friday, and theyd be bonded out by Saturday or by Monday. It was becoming a real tough challenge for law enforcement, Reichenbach said.

Childrens issues are a topic of concern for Reichenbach both because of what he hears from constituents and because of his upbringing, he said.

Reichenbach shared the story of how he was placed in the foster care system at a young age but was adopted by a good family in a small Ohioan town who taught him about discipline, identity, love and faith.

I know the value of an upbringing and how much that can mean in your trajectory moving forward, he said.

After recently being appointed to the Joint Citizens and Legislative Committee on Children, Reichenbach said, he has seen the heartbreaking problem some children face in South Carolina.

Weve got 400 pre-K children in our state who have either been suspended or expelled, he said. That road doesnt get easier for you.

Around a quarter of South Carolinas youth are growing up in poverty, which is another issue the committee is looking into. The committee is doing six-hour listening sessions in cities around the state, and the first took place in Columbia last week.

To hear these stories of tragedy and trauma, it can almost be defeatist, because youre like, How can we get out of this? Reichenbach said. Were raising a generation of broken children.

The issue is not just a moral one, but also an economic one, according to Reichenbach. He said todays children are future workers and consumers, and if they cannot get off on the right foot, the economy will be in trouble.

Federal, state and local governments need to work together to begin to address these issues, according to Reichenbach. He said the good news is that Florence already has that collaboration from federal to local representatives,

We understand that if we act together, if we collaborate, if we cooperate and we communicate  communication is such a key aspect of it  we have an opportunity to avoid problems that may come down the road and to prepare the community for the growth that were having, he said after the speech.

Legislation alone cannot fix the problems, according to Reichenbach. He said it is going to take communities, churches, schools and families coming together to change the culture and properly prepare children for successful futures.
Seguin police arrested a man accused of critically stabbing his older brother in an altercation over the weekend at a home in the city.
File. Health officials in full protective gear walk inside an isolation ward in October 2021 in the Indian state of Kerala after 23-year-old was infected by the potentially deadly Nipah virus (AFP via Getty Images)

Experts in Indias southern state of Kerala have been asked to gather samples of fluids from bats and fruit trees in an area where the deadly Nipah virus has claimed the lives of two people, with three more testing positive.

This marks the fourth outbreak of the deadly virus in the state since 2018.

On Wednesday, a 24-year-old healthcare worker who had close contact with a Nipah patient tested positive for the virus, taking the total number of confirmed cases in Kerala to five.

There is currently no approved vaccine for the Nipah virus which spreads through contact with bodily fluids of infected bats, pigs, or humans, resulting in a mortality rate of up to 75 per cent among those who become infected.

Infected people initially develop symptoms that include fever, respiratory distress, headaches, and vomiting, according to the World Health Organization. Encephalitis and seizures can also occur in severe cases, leading to coma. The virus is included in the WHOs list of pathogens with epidemic potential.

In response, the state government implemented containment zones and imposed restrictions to curb the viruss spread. Authorities have issued an order for all educational institutions to remain closed on Thursday and Friday.

The patient contact list has raised significant concerns, as it now includes 700 individuals who have had contact with the infected patients. Among this group, 77 are classified as being at high risk, according to Kerala health minister Veena George.

As a precautionary measure, people at high risk of infection have been advised to stay within their homes. The travel routes of the two Nipah patients who passed away have been disclosed to people so as to prevent people from using them.

In Kozhikode, restrictions have been enforced, prohibiting large gatherings of people at festivals and events.

Local media reported that a total of 58 wards of Kozhikode district in Kerala have been designated as containment zones. In these zones, only essential services will be operational, and entry and exit will be restricted.

Story continues

Shops selling essential goods are permitted to operate between 7am and 5pm, while pharmacies and health centres will have unrestricted operating hours.

Buses and vehicles travelling on national highways that pass through the containment zones are instructed not to make stops within the affected areas.

The neighbouring states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have implemented testing requirements for people arriving from Kerala. They have also put plans in place to isolate those who display symptoms of influenza to prevent the potential spread of the virus.

The Nipah virus has the ability to infect a variety of animals, increasing the risk of its spread. It can be transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals or by consuming contaminated food.

The virus was first identified in 1999 during an outbreak that affected pig farmers and people closely associated with pigs in Malaysia and Singapore.

Nipah outbreaks occur sporadically, and previous infections in South Asia have been linked to the consumption of items contaminated with bat excreta.

According to the World Health Organization, the Nipah virus was also recognised in Bangladesh in 2001, and nearly annual outbreaks have occurred in the country since.

In Kerala, the first Nipah outbreak in 2018 resulted in the death of 21 out of 23 infected people. Subsequent outbreaks in 2019 and 2021 claimed the lives of two people each.

A 2001 outbreak in India and two more in Bangladesh killed 62 of 91 people infected.

In May, a Reuters investigation highlighted that certain parts of Kerala are among the global hotspots most vulnerable to outbreaks of bat-borne viruses. This heightened risk is attributed to the clearing of forests for development, which brings people and wildlife into closer contact.

During a high-level review meeting, chief minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan said that necessary preventive measures have been implemented and that there is no cause for panic.

Former health minister and senior leader K K Shailaja also assured that there is no need to worry about the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode. She stated that the current situation is not as alarming as it was in 2018.

Additional reporting with agencies
A traditional textile market in Jakarta. Most Muslims in Malaysia and Indonesia are in favour of Islamic Shariah regulations to replace secular national laws, according to a poll by Pew Research Centre. (Photo: Ed Wray/Getty Images)

By Faris Mokhtar

(Bloomberg)  The majority of Muslims in Indonesia and Malaysia are in favour of making strict Islamic rules the official law of these multi-religious countries, polling from the Pew Research Centre showed in a sign of the rising influence of religious conservatism.

Some 86% of Malaysians said they are in favour of making Shariah regulations, which applies to Muslims, as the countrys official law. With Indonesia, nearly two out of three people surveyed were in favour of implementing Islamic regulations over the current secular laws.

The strong support for Shariah laws, which include banning alcohol and punishing adultery, reflect a growing dilemma for the leaders of these Muslim-majority nations that also have sizable religious minorities. This in turn is influencing policymaking in Malaysia and Indonesia where incomes and economic growth were checked by the pandemic and a global slowdown.

The Pew findings published on Tuesday found that most of the Malaysian Muslims polled were in favor of religious leaders entering politics, while close to half of the respondents surveyed in Indonesia embrace this.

While the survey was carried out between June and September 2022, national and state elections in Malaysia and political decisions in Indonesia echo the findings and show the rising clout of the Muslim conservatives.

Malaysias state elections in August saw a far-right Islamist group strengthen its hold on three of six states up for grabs while wresting more seats in the countrys wealthiest state of Selangor. Last November, Parti Islam Se-Malaysia won most seats of any single party in the national vote and was supporting a conservative candidate to defeat Anwar Ibrahim in the race to become the next prime minister.

Home to the worlds largest Muslim population, Indonesia enacted a sweeping criminal code that punishes people who have sex outside marriage in the most significant example of conservatives power in influencing state policies.

Story continues

Indonesias presidential elections next year could see religion come to the fore as well. One of the candidates, a former governor of Jakarta who is viewed as pro-Muslim, has sought to burnish his credentials by picking the leader of Indonesias largest Islamic party as his running mate.

The study also examined the role of Buddhism, the main religion in Cambodia, Thailand and Sri Lanka. Among the three, Cambodian respondents were more in favour of religious leaders becoming politics as well as revealing their political leanings and joining protests.

Pew Research polled 13,122 adults across six Asian countries that include Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Cambodia, Thailand and Sri Lanka.

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Navigating the digital landscape: Embracing the opportunities while guarding against scams in today's digital age. (PHOTO: Getty Images)

SINGAPORE  In today's digital age, seniors sometimes feel like newcomers in an unfamiliar world. While the internet offers great opportunities, it also has a dangerous downside: scams. These scams, orchestrated by clever criminals, can deceive people of all ages.

Although seniors have often been perceived as easy targets, recent data reveals that their concerns about online safety and privacy are more complex than we assume.

According to the mid-year scams and cybercrime statistics for 2023, released by the police on Wednesday (13 September), victims of reported scams incurred a loss of $334.5 million in the first half of 2023.

Young adults are hit hardest while elderly face fake friend call scam

Among the numerous scams, job-related frauds emerged as the most prevalent, accounting for over 25 per cent of reported cases during this period.

However, the spectrum of scams is vast, encompassing e-commerce fraud, fake friend call scams, phishing attempts, and insurance-related deceit. These scams have infiltrated the lives of individuals of all ages, rendering no one immune to their effects.

While the number of reported scam cases surged significantly - exceeding 22,339 in the first half of 2023, marking a 64.5 per cent increase from the previous year - the total financial losses attributed to scams decreased by 2.2 per cent compared to the same period in 2022.

A particularly intriguing revelation is that most scam victims are not seniors. In fact, young adults aged 20 to 39 accounted for more than half (50.8 per cent) of the total number of scam victims.

This trend, which has persisted since 2022, can be attributed to young adults conducting a significant portion of their daily activities online, thereby exposing themselves more to the risks of falling victim to scams.

Elderly victims aged 60 and above accounted for approximately 11.7 per cent of the victims. They often fell prey to a fake friend call scams, a deceitful ruse typically carried out through phone calls or messaging apps like WhatsApp.

Story continues

In this scheme, the perpetrator impersonates the victim's friend or acquaintance, coaxing them into sending money. As a consequence, unsuspecting seniors frequently end up transferring funds to bank accounts owned by unknown individuals.

Elderly victims, aged 60 and above often targeted by fake friend call scams, a scheme frequently executed through phone calls or messaging apps like WhatsApp. (PHOTO: SPF)

How can we empower seniors in the digital age?

The need to continue supporting the elderly becomes evident when considering their vulnerability to emotional manipulation and trust-based scams.

Unlike younger generations, who are more tech-savvy and accustomed to navigating the digital realm, some seniors may lack the familiarity and awareness needed to detect such fraudulent activities, according to experts who spoke to Yahoo Southeast Asia.

To address these challenges, initiatives such as Project PRAISE (Police-RSVP Anti-Scam Engagement), by the senior volunteers organisation RSVP Singapore in collaboration with the police, have emerged to guide seniors amid the perilous digital landscape.

Launched in 2022, Project PRAISE has reached over 4,200 seniors in just a year through close to 60 outreach sessions, empowering them with the skills and confidence needed to navigate the digital landscape securely.

RSVP Singapore chairman Koh Juay Meng explains, "Seniors often worry about various aspects of life, a concern deeply rooted in their love for family. Even as their children have grown into parents, seniors continue to harbour concerns for their offspring. So while new technologies emerge, these concerns are nothing new.

"The main objective is to eradicate their fear. We strive to ensure that when seniors are handed a mobile phone to access an e-commerce platform, they know precisely what steps to take."

74-year-old James Loo, a volunteer at RSVP Singapore, underscores the importance of empowering seniors in the digital world through sharing their experiences. (PHOTO: RSVP Singapore)

Seniors like 74-year-old James Loo, a seasoned volunteer at RSVP Singapore, share their experiences, and he says it is evident that empowering seniors in the digital world is not only possible but crucial.

Loo reflects on his friends' anxieties when confronted with the complexities of smartphones and laptops, stating, "I think a lot of the seniors' anxiety stems from ignorance. They're uncertain about how a particular app works and what risks it may entail."

For some seniors, even the basic act of touching a digital device can be intimidating. As Loo elaborates, "Some of my friends who are not so tech-savvy don't even use a laptop, or they don't even dare to touch the screen, for fear of when the screen image disappears."

The need to shield seniors from digital predators

Matthias Yeo, co-founder and chief executive officer of CyberXCenter - a Singapore company which builds cyber capabilities - inhabits a vastly different world from the volunteer spaces of RSVP Singapore.

His expertise in cybersecurity has immersed him in the darker realms of the digital landscape. He stressed that seniors are frequently singled out as targets by scammers who exploit their vulnerabilities.

"They may create profiles of seniors based on details about their family members, behaviours, and personal information readily available on the seniors' family social media accounts. This information may be exploited to make their scams appear highly convincing," he says.

"For example, if a scammer is aware that a senior's daughter is planning a trip to Australia, they might attempt to deceive the senior by claiming that their daughter is stranded at the Australian embassy and needs a fund transfer for administrative fees. There is also the potential for scammers to leverage on artificial intelligence to mimic the daughter's voice."

Seniors also frequently fall victim to scammers who seek to defraud them of their life savings. "They are the easiest targets as they do not know enough of the technology that enables the scammer to do that," Yeo says.

"For example, just by providing the OTP (one-time PIN) to the scammer, it allows the scammer to take ownership of the senior's account."

However, amid these formidable challenges, Yeo emphasised the feasibility of enabling seniors in the digital world. Proactive measures, such as regular TV programmes addressing scams, can educate those who may not possess the digital prowess of younger generations.

"Engaging in conversations about the latest online scams, teaching seniors how cybercriminals think, and educating them on cybersecurity best practices are pivotal," he asserts.

"While tools such as anti-malware solutions are readily available, awareness and education remain critical components of seniors' online safety."

Companies and technology firms entrusted with seniors' information must also exercise heightened precautions to safeguard their data. Yeo believes that collaboration between the government, companies, and cybersecurity experts is imperative to fortify the digital defences of seniors.

With education and knowledge, experts believe that seniors will be better able to enjoy the benefits of the digital landscape without running into scams that are potentially devastating to their lives.

Cybersecurity expert Matthias Yeo highlights the importance of education in senior online safety amidst challenges. (PHOTO: Getty Images)

Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Also check out our Southeast Asia, Food, and Gaming channels on YouTube.
Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) speaks to reporters in his Capitol Hill office in Washington, D.C., Sept. 13.

Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) speaks to reporters in his Capitol Hill office in Washington, D.C., Sept. 13.

Theres no one else like Mitt Romney in the U.S. Senate  and there probably wont be any time soon.

The retiring Utah Republican, a rare GOP critic of Donald Trump who twice voted to impeach the former president, is unlikely to have a successor as committed as he is to battling his partys de facto leader. And even if Utah does elect another Trump critic to replace Romney in 2024, that person most likely wont command the same moral authority that Romney has during his single term in office.

The result is almost certain to be a gaping hole in the already small group of Republicans willing to speak out with moral clarity about the GOPs rapid slide into authoritarianism and demagoguery.

As a moral voice in the Senate, Mitt is irreplaceable, Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) told HuffPost Thursday.

Mitt has upright moral character and oftentimes challenges people to view an issue beyond the short-term politics, said Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), another member of the Trump-wary caucus in the upper chamber. You always wish to have someone like that around.

Romney, 76, said he is retiring due to his age and a desire not to serve into his 80s. But the former Massachusetts governor and two-time presidential candidate was already facing rumblings of a primary challenge from at least one Republican to his right, as well as others more closely aligned with the MAGA movement.

Those challenges would likely have only intensified. Romney was a ripe target for hard-right Republicans who took issue with his impeachment votes, his bipartisan dealmaking and his general antagonism toward Trump, who is currently the front-runner for the GOP presidential nomination in the year that Romney would be running for a second term.

Does he want to go through the kind of colonoscopy that would be a reelection for him? said Jason Cabel Roe, a GOP operative who briefly served as deputy campaign manager for Romneys 2008 presidential bid. Given the stature that he maintains in his career  heading up the U.S. Olympics, heading up Bain [Capital], being a governor, being a U.S. senator, being a presidential nominee  regardless of what people think about his politics, he still stands in the political ecosystem as a statesman, and to degrade himself seeking reelection is probably not the most enticing option for this point in his career.

Story continues

Riverton, Utah, Mayor Trent Staggs, who launched a campaign against Romney in May, tweeted shortly after Romneys announcement: Right now, lets replace America Firsts biggest critic with its biggest ally!

Ive been hearing from so many Utahns that they were just done ... They were not going to vote for Mitt Romney, Staggs told right-wing influencer Benny Johnson. I think he left the Republican Party some time ago.

Romneys retirement will open the floodgates to more candidates. Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson had already formed a Senate exploratory committee prior to Romneys announcement. Wilson presided over the state House GOP caucus as members weighed a resolution to rebuke Romney for his 2020 impeachment vote. Republicans opted instead for a proclamation thanking Trump for his work on issues critical to Utah.

Rep. John Curtis, one of the states four Republican U.S. House members, tweeted that hes received encouragement to run for Romneys seat. Like all but 10 House Republicans, Curtis did not vote to impeach Trump following the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. But he said Trump deserves some of the blame. I think its clear he bears some responsibility, Curtis said a week after the attack, adding that he didnt like what he called the rushed timeline of the Democratic-led proceedings.

A source close to former CIA agent Evan McMullin  an independent who mounted an unsuccessful campaign for Senate last year against Republican incumbent Mike Lee  told HuffPost that McMullin is being encouraged to take another look at running.

Romneys electoral chances in Utah, one of the nations reddest states, were questionable given recent precedent. Eight of the 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach Trump for Jan. 6 either didnt run for reelection, most likely fearing a primary challenge, or lost elections, like former Rep. Liz Cheney, who represented Wyomings at-large congressional seat until losing a 2022 primary to Harriet Hageman by almost 40 points.

In Utah this month, Becky Edwards, a Republican who rejected Trump in 2020 and instead voted for Joe Biden, narrowly lost a special election to fill the seat of retiring Rep. Chris Stewart (R), despite what seemed like an openness among voters to elect a non-MAGA Republican.

Like Cheney, Romney was not elected as a Trump antagonist. But the GOPs 2012 presidential nominee always had a tumultuous relationship with Trump, bashing him during the 2016 primary  which, in turn, led to Trump mocking Romneys 2012 electoral loss and calling him one of the dumbest and worst candidates in the history of Republican politics. In 2018, however, Romney accepted Trumps endorsement for his current seat.

Romneys exit from the Senate puts an exclamation mark on the transformational change within the GOP from the once-ascendant Ronald Reagan-minded wing of the party to the MAGA acolytes of Trump and his strongman persona.

Parties change. The Democratic Partys changed. The Republican Partys changed. I am comfortable with where Im at, and if hes not comfortable where hes at, I understand, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who underwent his own metamorphosis from a sharp critic of Trump into an ally, said of Romney on Thursday.

Parties change. The Democratic Partys changed. The Republican Partys changed.Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.)

Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), one of the chambers more conservative members, called Romney out of sync with todays GOP, and said he disagrees with the notion that Republicans are unwilling to break with their party, as Romney reportedly says in a forthcoming book by The Atlantics McKay Coppins. In the book, Romney criticizes Republican Sens. Josh Hawley (Mo.) and Ted Cruz (Texas) for being disingenuous in their support for Trump, and says his colleagues are afraid to speak out against the former president.

Thats like the nicest thing hes said about me. You should see what he says in private, Hawley said Thursday. I did like the part where he said I was smarter than Ted Cruz.

The reality is that, with Romney and other dealmakers heading for the exits, senators in the mold of Hawley and Cruz are increasingly poised to become the future of the GOP.

But Romney says hes confident that the tide will turn back to sanity  eventually.

I think the people of Utah will elect someone who represents mainstream Republican values, he told Politico. And I dont think youre going to see a MAGA Republican coming into the Senate.

Related...
Installation of Sunday School Administrator

St. John Lutheran Church will install Becky Wolf as Sunday School Administrator on Sunday, Sept. 17, during our 9:30 a.m. service. Becky is an accredited teacher and has chosen to bring her planning skills to the children. This occasion will create the church's first structured Sunday School classes since COVID-19.

The church with the big blue roof and an even bigger heart is looking forward to this opportunity to teach youth about the Bible Story and sharing in Gods love.

Citywide confessions

In an effort to encourage the Catholic faithful to participate in the sacrament of reconciliation (confession), the four Catholic parishes in Sioux City are collaborating on citywide confessions throughout the next year.

The first event is Sept. 19 at St. Michael Church.

Each parish will host one of four come and go confessions in the next 10 months to remind Catholics that the sacrament is available throughout the year  not just during the liturgical (church) seasons of Advent and Lent.

Confessions will be available at the following locations from 7 to 8 p.m. and the Blessed Sacrament will be exposed for confession participants to pray in adoration if they wish. Multiple priests will be present at each citywide confessions event.

Sept. 19 at St. Michael Church at 2223 Indian Hills Dr.

Dec. 19 at the Cathedral of the Epiphany at 1000 Douglas St.

March 19 at Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ Church at 4241 Natalia Way

June 18 at Sacred Heart Parish at 5010 Military Rd.

Pastors of the four parishes include: The Rev. David Hemann of Holy Cross Parish, which includes Blessed Sacrament and St. Michael churches; The Rev. David Esquiliano of Cathedral Parish, which includes the Cathedral of the Epiphany, St. Boniface and St. Joseph churches; The Rev. Brad Pelzel of Mater Dei Parish, which includes Immaculate Conception and Nativity churches, and The Rev. Tim Friedrichsen of Sacred Heart Parish

Sunday School

Mayflower Congregational UCC, 1407 W. 18th St., will have a special kick-off to start a new year of learning in Sunday School. There will be activities to learn the teachings of Jesus for all children aged 4 to fifth grade. The Sunday School classes, which is called The Transformation Station, are each Sunday from 9:45-10:45 a.m.

Confirmation classes

First Congregational United Church of Christ, 4600 Hamilton Blvd., will be starting Confirmation classes on Sept. 6. These classes are intended to help participants gain a relevant life-guiding knowledge of the Judeo-Christian tradition. Also the classes seek to develop a deeper soulful consciousness that helps participants to see with more empathy, gratitude, and a greater sense of possibility. These classes will also focus on building a sense of community as well as serving our community.

Blue Mass

Bishop Walker Nickless and the Sioux City Cathedral Parish are hosting a Blue Mass at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 29, the Feast of the Archangels  Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael. The date was selected for the Mass due to St. Michaels patronage of law enforcement.

Area first responders and those working in the emergency response fields (including law enforcement, fire, EMTs and others) and their families are encouraged to attend this Mass at the Cathedral of the Epiphany. The pastor said the liturgy will provide an opportunity to pray for first responders.

Organizers are hopeful that those working in law enforcement will feel comfortable attending, whether they are Catholic or not.

First responders and their families planning to attend are asked to RSVP to info@sccathedral.org. However, anyone who arrives without an RSVP is welcome to attend the Mass and the meal afterward.

The Cathedral Parish will host a White Mass for health care workers on Oct. 5 and a Red Mass Nov. 6 for workers in the legal profession. Bishop Nickless will celebrate those Masses at 5 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Epiphany.

Food pantry

St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 1200 Douglas St., will have its food pantry open from 10 a.m. to noon Mondays.
Smith was employed by her father- and mother-in-law at Dave's Glass Company, 3201 U.S. 75 N., and from May 3, 2018, through Aug. 23, 2021, used two company credit cards to make personal purchases such as groceries and pay utility bills. In an effort to hide the charges, Smith forged the company owner's signature on company checks to make payments on the credit card debt and write checks to herself, her husband and for other personal payments. Smith continued to use a company credit card for about two months after she was fired in June 2021.
SIOUX CITY  The contract for the new Woodbury County Law Enforcement Center called for completion of the troubled project by Thursday.

The general contractor, Hausmann Construction, not only missed that deadline, but told a joint city-county board Tuesday it would not finish the work until April 9, 2024.

It's the latest delay of a project beset by a series of missteps. The added construction time is projected to add nearly $1.8 million to a project that's already cost nearly $70 million.

"The Authority does not agree with [Hausmann's] proposed updated schedule and new substantial completion date," Shane Albrecht, a Baker Group consultant for the project, said in a statement. "Likewise, the Authority does not otherwise agree with [Hausmann's proposal request] terms, both in terms of the additional costs and additional days."

Albrecht said the Authority's contract with Hausmann does not include liquidated damages for not meeting Thursday's completion date, but there is a change order that would allow the Authority to recuperate damages and restitution. The Authority has had various closed sessions with Stinson LLP of Kansas City, Missouri, who is representing the authority for legal services related to "construction and real estate matters."

Matthew Ung, chairman of the county board of supervisors, described the latest delay as "terrible news."

Having to wait seven months to open the new jail puts the county in a "financial crunch," county Finance Director Dennis Butler said. The county has budgeted $1.2 million in revenue for the current fiscal year through June 2024 by housing federal inmates in the new jail. If that money does not come, Butler said the county will have to dip into its reserves until the added revenues are recouped.

Cause of the delay

Albrecht said contractors needed more time to install fire dampers. A code review walkthrough by the city of Sioux City in August discovered 37 fire dampers were missing.

"It was something that was missed by both the city's review and the design team, but was caught by the city inspector," he said previously.

When the issue was presented to the Authority at the beginning of August, Albrecht told the board the dampers have a six-week order time and a six-week installation timeline. The goal at the time was to ensure the mistake did not impact the timeline.

The dampers are something that the contractors cannot simply go in and install. Due to their location within the ventilation system, installation of the dampers presents a number of obstacles: Holes will need to be cut in block walls and precast walls and in drywall, ductwork needs to be removed, installation of certain items can not be completed, the walls cannot be painted and more, Albrecht said.

Because of that, the air handling unit in the jail cannot be turned on, which prevents other items from being installed, Albrecht said.

After receiving the new timeline update, the Authority has two weeks to review the material and provide comments on the proposal, before returning it to Hausmann, who then has time to review the requests.

Albrecht said there are two steps to fix the problem. The first is determining how to get the building opened as quickly as possible without sacrificing quality, and the second step is determining who is at fault for the delays.

Currently, Albrecht said they are focusing on the first step. He said they dont have time to be angry or frustrated.

"It's very, very important that we get that door open out there, that we get everything in place properly," he said.

Troubled project

For years, county officials faced various deficiencies, compliance issues, operations costs and lack of space in the current jail, built in 1987.

The process of reviewing solutions for the aging Woodbury County Jail started back in 2015 when a committee was formed to evaluate the current downtown jail. With help from various architecture firms, the committee studied a variety of solutions for the aging facility, including adding a third floor, remodeling the current space or creating an expansion.

Most recently, experts recommended at least $22 million in critical repairs to the facility.

At the time of the studies, county officials warned critical systems could fail at any time, which would force the evacuation of the jail and require taxpayers to pay millions of dollars to transport and house inmates in other jails scattered around the state on top of the repair costs.

In 2019, the county board of supervisors moved to place a bond issue before voters for a new jail. The Woodbury County Law Enforcement Center Authority was formed. Taking advantage of a provision in state law, the Authority only needed a simple majority for the bond issue, rather than the 60-percent supermajority needed for most local government projects funded by property taxes.

In March 2020, Woodbury County voters approved a $50.3 million bond with 57 percent voter approval. With interest, the 20-year bonds could cost between $64 million and $68 million.

Construction on the project was originally set to begin in early 2021, but was delayed by the spiraling cost of building materials.

In June 2021, the LEC Authority approved a $58.4 million contract to Lincoln, Neb.-based Hausmann, which submitted a low bid for the general contractor phase of the project. The original estimate for the main phase was $43 million. The low bid represents a 36 percent increase in cost.

Several citizens, including local contractors and union leaders, had urged the Authority to reject the two general contractor bids and put the project on hold in hopes the costs would fall by the time it was rebid. People also spoke out against the use of federal COVID-19 relief funding on the project.

Counting other additional expenses, the project costs now stand at around $68 million. The new total estimate includes design fees, project management fees, land purchases, bond costs, project change orders and site preparation.

So far, there has been $61.9 million in expenditures for the project, with $6.14 million in contractual obligations still outstanding, for a total of $68 million. In October 2022, six pre-cast concrete walls fell and broke due to high winds. All the panels needed to be replaced, but Albrecht said it did not add any costs to the project nor did it create any delays.

As of Aug. 29 there was $68.7 million in funding available for the project including the initial bond, $4 million in bond premium, $375,000 from the City of Sioux City, $717,863 from the county for site preparation and $13.26 million in COVID-19 recovery funding.

The project has $727,683 left in additional funding as of Tuesday.

Sheriff's office concerns

The 122,000-square-foot LEC, under construction on the city's northeast side, will hold up to 448 inmates. That's nearly double the roughly 234 inmate-capacity for the current aging jail, located across the street from the county courthouse. The new LEC also will have separate offices for the county sheriff and attorney, plus five courtrooms and court offices.

Woodbury County Sheriff Chad Sheehan said the department signed an agreement with the U.S. Marshal Service on Aug. 29 to house federal inmates in the new jail, beginning Sept. 1. He said they expect to house roughly 75 federal inmates a day, for a total of around $220,000 a month in revenue, with additional revenue expected from transporting the prisoners and commissary.

"Every month it starts to fall short," Sheehan said.

Butler said the county also planned to have three additional building service workers to help with the new LEC, starting Friday.

"You can't just say go home for four or five or six months," Butler said. He added their positions were budgeted for based on having revenues from the jail.

Sheehan said his office had prepared to "hit the ground running" in mid-September, with a full staff and went as far as having a vacation block-out during September and October. Since learning of the likely delay, Sheehan said they are allowing staff to take time off the next two months.

Once the facility is completed, Sheehan said the staff would take time to do training in the facility before moving inmates in.

Board of Supervisors decisions

To receive more information, the supervisors voted to remove Rocky De Witt from the joint city-county Law Enforcement Center Authority and replace him with Supervisor Mark Nelson on Aug. 5.

Ung said the move was not a criticism of De Witts service but reflected the boards need for more information through a current member of the Board of Supervisors.

Nelson updated the board on Tuesday about the new timeline and conversations about the delay.

In December, the board of supervisors and the Authority decided to transfer the responsibility of ordering furniture for the LEC to the county. Originally, the Authority was paying for the furniture as part of the lease agreement.

County Building Services director Kenny Schmitz had scheduled the furniture to be delivered on Oct. 15, Nelson said.

Nelson said Schmitz has found a climate-controlled storage building to store the furniture for four months for $10,000.

Larger jail staff

In January 2022, Sheehan alerted the board that an additional 18 employees would be needed to operate the new jail, adding roughly $1.3 million in annual costs.

Currently, the jail is operating with 65 staff members, including correctional officers and administration. That costs the county an additional $3.34 million each year.

The board decided to begin hiring the staff immediately and stagger the hiring until the opening date. Six correctional officers were hired at the beginning of 2022, six more were hired in March and April with the remaining staff hired in June.

He said if he had known the jail would not open, the office could have delayed hiring the additional staff, saving the county $50,000 to $70,000 this fiscal year.

Chief Deputy Tony Wingert said some of those individuals are still in training, but otherwise, the staff is being utilized throughout the jail, cutting back on staff overtime and helping get ready for the move.

During an Aug. 29 board of supervisors meeting, Sheehan was asked what the process of moving in looks like.

Sheehan said there is a 30-day window after the substantial completion date for the final checklist to be completed. He said the sheriff's office will not begin moving in until after that checklist is complete.

"It would be a nightmare to move anybody in [while work was ongoing]," Sheehan said.

In this case, Albrecht said the substantial completion date is the day the Sheriff's Office could begin moving inmates into the facility.

Sheehan also wanted to do training in the building during that 30-day window to acclimate to a new building and new systems.

He said they are working with an unidentified non-profit group to create a fundraiser where people can pay to have someone "booked" in the new jail for staff training.

The effort is both a way to have transparency and allow people to tour the new facility, while also providing training for the staff, Sheehan said.

Woodbury County courts

The new court space in the LEC will be similar to the current facility, District Judge Patrick Tott said. The facility will host all of the criminal court proceedings with four courtrooms as well as space for the judges, court reporters, court attendants, the clerk of court and the court interpreter.

The court system never intended to be in the new facility right away, and would instead wait until after the sheriff's department was moved in.

"There's no point for us being there ready to operate while [the sheriff's] training and there are no inmates," he said. "We always intended to begin our operations when the jail was ready, when the inmates were there."

Tott said he was originally anticipating the courts would begin operating at the new facility towards the end of December or the beginning of January.

While the county is responsible for most of the furniture in the courts, Tott said the state pays for the chamber furnishings, as well as IT equipment. He said all of the furnishings have been identified, but they don't know when to order them.

Tott said there is a six to eight-week delivery time from the order date. One main concern is the bids for furniture have a deadline before the bid expires, so a long delay could increase the cost of furniture.

"I don't think it's going to get delayed that long, but your guess is as good as mine," he said.

The courts start notifying people selected for jury duty 90 days before their service begins. The individuals will receive a postcard giving them information about their term and where they will report.

He said the courts need to know approximately 90 days before scheduling trials in the new facility for notification.

Other than jury trials and other hearings, Tott said every day people appear before the court for traffic citations. When an individual is pulled over by the police and receives a citation, the bottom of the ticket tells the individual where they need to report. It is between six and eight weeks from when the individual receives the ticket before they report to court, Tott said.

"We need to have a pretty good idea of when we're going to be [at the new facility] to know when we need to change the dates on those citations," he said.

Tott said the courts are still able to function out of the current facility and there will not be any financial cost to the delay, so it is mostly just an administrative inconvenience.

Despite the delay, Tott said the facility was badly needed and he is willing to wait however long it takes to get it done correctly.

"I know people are going to be frustrated with the delay and people are going to talk criticism, but it was still the right call to get the new facility," he said.

County attorney's office

The new county attorney's space will provide a larger, centralized location for the staff, County Attorney James Loomis said.

Currently, the county attorney's offices are in the Trosper-Hoyt County Services building, as well as the second and third floors of the courthouse. The new facility will move most of those offices onto one floor.

Loomis said that will allow people to collaborate without moving between floors and buildings.

Similar to the court system, the county attorney's office did not plan on moving into the new LEC until after the sheriff's department was settled. He also said they would wait until the courts are up and running.

"There'll be a transition period where we're probably commuting back and for for a while," he said.

His desire is for the other departments to be settled before the attorney staff begins working and handling cases in the space.

When asked if the delay impacts his office, Loomis said no.

"We're situated at the courthouse, we're doing what we need to do, we'll just continue to do that until we learn like everybody else when the door [will] open," he said. "When that time comes we'll just get ready to pack our bags and get moved over there. There's no rush on my part."

Overall progress

On the outside of the building, Albrecht said they are wrapping up some final concrete pours and talking about the landscaping, painting lines in the parking lot and seeding the grass.

On the inside, Albrecht said they will begin going through the final punch list for the county attorney's space, the sheriff's office, the vehicle sally port and the lower level loading dock on Oct. 9.

This means those areas of the project will be substantially complete, with only a few fixes to be made in the following two weeks, he said.

While the delay is an inconvenience, Albrecht said the building is going to be around for at least 30 to 40 years.

"People will forget three years from now when the building actually opened, they won't forget if somebody cut a corner because they're going to have to fix it and deal with it at that time, he said. "So our job is to get us in the building as quick as possible but with the quality that we expected from day one."

LEC Authority Chair Ron Wieck Wieck agreed, saying he would not allow corners to be cut like they were when the existing jail was built.

It's maybe taken us a little longer. We've hit some speed bumps as we've gone through the process. But at the end of the day, it's got to be right, Wieck said.

The authority has a visitation policy in place for the construction site. Visitors must have 10-hour OSHA training, Hausmann Construction training and prior approval to visit by the sheriff's office, the authority and Hausmann Construction. Visitors are also required to leave cell phones in the Hausmann Construction on-site trailer.

Wieck said allowing people to visit the building is both a security concern and requires them to pull the Hausmann Construction staff off their work to guide the tours. Members of the Board of Supervisors as well as other individuals set to go to work in the new building have been unable to tour the site due to the policy.

Nelson said he is currently working on being able to get the OSHA and Hausmann training to visit the site.
WASHINGTON  While the nation has been transfixed by the two-week manhunt for escaped prisoner Danelo Souza Cavalcante in Pennsylvania, another fugitive drama has been playing out in the nation's capital with comparatively minimal attention.

Christopher Haynes has been on the run for a week, since escaping from police custody at George Washington University Hospital on Sept. 6. Haynes, 30, had been arrested earlier in the day on murder charges relating to an Aug. 12 shooting in the district. His escape prompted a several-hour shelter-in-place order last week for the entire GW campus and brief roadblocks on nearby streets.

Cavalcante, a 34-year-old Brazilian national who was convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend, was captured Wednesday morning in southeastern Pennsylvania after an extended pursuit that received wall-to-wall live coverage. Haynes is still at large and awaits a trial.

The contrast between the two manhunts has been stark: While the national media has tracked every development in Cavalcante's flight, Haynes has basically dropped off the map. Police were able to provide an image last week of Haynes wearing a black T-shirt and gray briefs and moving through a backyard. But the only updates since then have been the offering of a $25,000 reward for information leading to his capture and a news release Tuesday increasing the reward to $30,000 and providing additional details about the escape.

Brian Levin, criminal justice professor emeritus at California State University, San Bernardino, believes the difference in public attention and media coverage comes down to a number of factors. For starters, there's the viral video of Cavalcante's innovative escape from Chester County Prison as he braced himself between two walls and performed a sort of vertical crab-walk up and out of sight.

There were all these aspects that were Hollywood-esque, Levin said. The video of that crab-walk up the wall looked like something out of a movie.

Haynes also staged a dramatic-sounding escape, according to the Metropolitan Police Department. However, no video of that escape has yet emerged.

After being brought to the hospital complaining of ankle pain, he attacked the officers escorting him and escaped as they were attempting to handcuff him to a gurney. Police Chief Pamela Smith, who assumed the job six weeks ago amid spiraling violent crimes rates, later admitted that the officers had not properly secured Haynes, providing an opportunity for his escape.

Levin said the Cavalcante manhunt also featured a steady trickle of new developments that increased public interest as the hunt dragged on. There were repeated Cavalcante sightings, along with reports that he had shaved his facial hair and stolen a van and at one point stole a rifle and was shot at by an area resident.

There was a new twist with virtually every news cycle. There were so many new twists that the public became fixated on what's coming next," Levin said. Whereas with this D.C. fellow, there haven't been any new details where the stakes and intensity would grow with each news cycle.

Police in Washington couldn't say if he was armed.

Cavalcante's fugitive flight also spread fear across a wide rural and suburban community, with schools closing and authorities sending out warnings to all area phones, telling residents to lock their doors and stay on alert. They were able to establish perimeters where they focused their hunt.

But Haynes escaped in the midst of a large city not far from a subway station. Police this week said that they had received multiple reports of possible sightings of Haynes. But other than the several-hour shelter-in-place order for the GW campus on the day of his escape, there have been no other public signs of the pursuit.

MPD continues the search for Christopher Haynes while the reward for information leading to his arrest has increased to $30,000, police posted on the social network X, formerly called Twitter, on Tuesday.

The public's high interest in the Pennsylvania case was not that surprising.

Levin said the American public has a longstanding fascination with this sort of true-crime flight-from-justice tale. The American crime narrative culture is something that dates back 100 years  to the days of Bonnie and Clyde, John Dillinger and Baby Face Nelson, he said.
WASHINGTON  Senators heard from prominent technology executives and others in private Wednesday on how to accomplish the potentially impossible task of passing bipartisan legislation within the next year that encourages the rapid development of artificial intelligence and mitigates its biggest risks.

The closed-door forum on Capitol Hill convened by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer included almost two dozen tech executives, tech advocates, civil rights groups and labor leaders. The guest list featured some of the industrys biggest names: Metas Mark Zuckerberg and X and Tesla's Elon Musk as well as former Microsoft CEO Bill Gates. All 100 senators were invited; the public was not.

Schumer, D-N.Y., said more than 60 senators attended and that there was some broad consensus in building a foundation for bipartisan AI policy. When he asked everyone in the room if government should have a role in regulating AI, every single person raised their hands, even though they had diverse views, he said.

Schumer, who was leading the forum with Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., will not necessarily take the tech executives advice as he works with colleagues to try and ensure some oversight of the burgeoning sector. But he is hoping they will give senators some realistic direction for meaningful regulation of the tech industry.

Tech leaders outlined their views, with each participant getting three minutes to speak on a topic of their choosing.

Musk and former Google CEO Eric Schmidt raised existential risks posed by AI, Zuckerberg brought up the question of closed vs. open source AI models and IBM CEO Arvind Krishna expressed opposition to the licensing approach favored by other companies, according to a person in attendance who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the rules of the closed-door forum.

Schumer said one of the issues discussed was whether there should be a new agency to regulate AI.

It was a very civilized discussion among some of the smartest people in the world, Musk told reporters after leaving the meeting. He said there is clearly some strong consensus.

Some senators were critical of the private meeting, arguing that tech executives should testify in public.

Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., said he would not attend what he said was a giant cocktail party for big tech. Hawley has introduced legislation with Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., to require tech companies to seek licenses for high-risk AI systems.

I dont know why we would invite all the biggest monopolists in the world to come and give Congress tips on how to help them make more money and then close it to the public, Hawley said.

Congress has a lackluster track record when it comes to regulating technology, and the industry has grown mostly unchecked by government in the past several decades.

Many lawmakers point to the failure to pass any legislation surrounding social media, such as for stricter privacy standards.

We dont want to do what we did with social media, which is let the techies figure it out, and well fix it later, Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Mark Warner, D-Va., said about the AI push.

Schumer said regulation of artificial intelligence will be one of the most difficult issues we can ever take on, and he listed some of the reasons why: Its technically complicated, it keeps changing and it has such a wide, broad effect across the whole world, he said.

But his bipartisan working group  Rounds and Sens. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., and Todd Young, R-Ind.  is hoping the rapid growth of artificial intelligence will create more urgency.

Rounds said before the forum that Congress needs to get ahead of fast-moving AI by making sure it continues to develop on the positive side while also taking care of potential issues surrounding data transparency and privacy.

AI is not going away, and it can do some really good things or it can be a real challenge, Rounds said.

Sparked by the release of ChatGPT less than a year ago, businesses across many sectors have been clamoring to apply new generative AI tools that can compose human-like passages of text, program computer code and create novel images, audio and video. The hype over such tools has accelerated worries over its potential societal harms and prompted calls for more transparency in how the data behind the new products is collected and used.

Some concrete proposals have already been introduced, including legislation by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., that would require disclaimers for AI-generated election ads with deceptive imagery and sounds. Hawley and Blumenthal's broader approach would create a government oversight authority with the power to audit certain AI systems for harms before granting a license.

In the United States, major tech companies have expressed support for AI regulations, though they dont necessarily agree on what that means. Microsoft has endorsed a licensing approach, for instance, while IBM prefers rules that govern the deployment of specific risky uses of AI rather than the technology itself.

I think its important that government plays a role, both on the innovation side and building the right safeguards, and I thought it was a productive discussion, Google CEO Sundar Pichai said after leaving the forum.

Here's why 61% of Americans think AI could spell the end of humanity Here's why 61% of Americans think AI could spell the end of humanity
SEOUL, South Korea  North Koreas Kim Jong Un vowed full and unconditional support for Russias Vladimir Putin on Wednesday as the two leaders isolated by the West held a summit that the U.S. warned could lead to a deal to supply ammunition for Moscows war in Ukraine.

The meeting, which lasted over four hours at Russias spaceport in the Far East, underscores how the two countries' interests are aligning: Putin is believed to be seeking one of the few things impoverished North Korea has in abundance: stockpiles of aging ammunition and rockets for Soviet-era weapons.

Such a request would mark a role reversal from the 1950-53 Korean War, when Moscow gave weapons to support Pyongyangs invasion of South Korea  and in the decades that followed, when the Soviet Union sponsored North Korea.

The decision to meet at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, Russias most important launch center on its own soil, suggests Kim is seeking Russian help in developing military reconnaissance satellites. He has previously said that is crucial to enhancing the threat of his nuclear-capable missiles, and North Korea has repeatedly failed to put its first military spy satellite into orbit.

Putin met Kims limousine, brought from Pyongyang in the North Korean leaders armored train, at the launch facility, greeting his guest with a handshake of about 40 seconds. Putin spoke of the Soviet Unions wartime support for North Korea and said the talks would cover economic cooperation, humanitarian issues and the situation in the region.

Kim, in turn, pledged continued support for Moscow, making an apparent reference to the war in Ukraine.

Russia is currently engaged in a just fight against hegemonic forces to defend its sovereign rights, security and interests, he said. "The Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea has always expressed its full and unconditional support for all measures taken by the Russian government, and I take this opportunity to reaffirm that we will always stand with Russia on the anti-imperialist front and the front of independence,

North Korea may have tens of millions of aging artillery shells and rockets based on Soviet designs that could bolster Russian forces in Ukraine, analysts say.

Washington has accused North Korea of providing Russia with arms, including selling artillery shells to the Russian mercenary group Wagner. Russian and North Korean officials deny such claims.

But either buying arms from or providing rocket technology to North Korea would violate international sanctions that Russia has previously supported.

It would both underscore and deepen Russias isolation in the 18 months after its invasion of Ukraine drew increasing sanctions that have cut off Moscows economy from global markets and shrunk the circle of world leaders willing to meet with Putin.

Moscow's priority is success in Ukraine, "and it would do pretty much anything in order to achieve that. said James Nixey, director of Russia and Eurasia program at Chatham House, a London-based think-tank.

Russia possibly wants to settle in for a longer war, but it cant meet the necessary industrial capacity," he said. In return, Pyongyang is likely to get food and missile technology from Moscow, a relatively easy gift" for the Kremlin, Nixey said.

As the leaders toured a Soyuz-2 rocket launch facility on Wednesday, Kim peppered a Russian space official with questions.

Kim and Putin met together with their delegations and later one-on-one, said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. After the talks, there was an official lunch for Kim, Russian state media reported.

Putin told Russian state TV that Kim will visit two more cities in the Far East on his own after the summit, flying to Komsomolsk-on-Amur, where he will visit an aircraft plant, and then go to Vladivostok to view Russias Pacific Fleet, a university and other facilities.

Russia and North Korea have lots of interesting projects in spheres like transportation and agriculture, Putin said. Moscow is providing its neighbor with humanitarian aid, but there also are opportunities for working as equals, he added.

He dodged the issue, however, of military cooperation, saying only that Russia is abiding by the sanctions prohibiting procuring weapons from Pyongyang. There are certain restrictions, Russia is following all of them. There are things we can talk about, we're discussing, thinking. Russia is a self-sufficient country, but there are things we can bring attention to, we're discussing them, he said.

James OBrien, head of the Office of Sanctions Coordination at the U.S. State Department, said Russia was scraping the bottom of the barrel looking for help because its having trouble sustaining its military.

A deal between the countries would violate existing sanctions, O'Brien said, and would trigger the U.S. to try to identify the individuals and the financial mechanisms used to at least limit their ability to be effective."

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said at a news conference that any form of cooperation of any country with North Korea must respect the sanctions regime that was imposed by the Security Council.
LAHAINA, Hawaii  Ambulance and fire truck sirens wailed outside as Elsie Rosales stripped linens from king-sized mattresses at a beachfront resort in Lahaina.

She tried to focus on the work, but was beset by dread: Had a wildfire taken the home she scrimped to buy on a housekeepers wages?

It had. And now Rosales, like many other Filipino housekeepers used to cleaning hotels, is living in one with her family, a poignant example of how the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century has afflicted Mauis heavily Filipino population.

All our hard work burned, Rosales said in Ilocano, her native language. There is nothing left.

The disaster is prompting fears about what will become of Lahainas community and character as it rebuilds.

Many are concerned residents like Rosales wont be able to afford to live in Lahaina after the community is rebuilt, and that affluent outsiders seeking a home in the oceanfront town will price them out.

Will Filipinos, Native Hawaiians and others who have been the backbone of the tourism industry for so long be able to remain here? Will they want to?

Filipinos began arriving in Hawaii more than a century ago to labor on sugarcane and pineapple plantations. As their descendants and successive generations of immigrants have settled, they have become deeply ingrained in the communitys culture.

Today, they account for the second-largest ethnic group on Maui, with nearly 48,000 island residents tracing their roots to the Philippines, 5,000 of them in Lahaina, which was about 40% of the towns population before the fire. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates about one-fourth of Hawaiis 1.4 million people are of Filipino descent.

Many of them work in hotels, health care and food service. Filipinos account for about 70% of the members of UNITE HERE Local 5, the union representing workers in those industries, union President Gemma Weinstein said. She is Filipino and a former Honolulu hotel housekeeper.

If it wasnt for the Filipinos having two or three jobs, a lot of the businesses here, including the hotels, would have a hard time operating, said Rick Nava, a community advocate and Filipino immigrant who lost his own home in the fire.

A month after the Aug. 8 disaster killed at least 115 people, nearly 6,000 people were staying at two dozen hotels serving as temporary shelters around Maui.

A number are hotel housekeepers like Rosales, 61, who is staying in a two-bedroom suite with her two sisters, her son, his wife and three grandchildren at the Sands of Kahana resort. Rosales' 72-year-old sister, Evangeline Balintona, works there as a housekeeper.

In the sisters' suite, there is an artificial plant in the corner of the living room, between a window overlooking the ocean and the flat-screen TV, that Balintona has dusted countless times. When she makes the bed, she does it the way she always has done for work, with layers of sheets and a comforter tucked neat and tight under a heavy mattress.

"I know every corner of this room, Balintona said.

She is thinking about returning to Ilocos Norte, the family's hometown in the Philippines. She hopes her son there has saved enough from the monthly remittances she sent over the years to support her if she returns with nothing.

Tourists have been told to avoid Lahaina for now, and many hotels are housing federal aid workers. Balintona and others worry about the futures of their jobs.

Rosales, who said she did not know anyone who died in the fire, immigrated to Hawaii in 1999. After years of renting and saving for a down payment, she bought a five-bedroom home on Lahaina's Aulike Street in 2014 for $490,000. Her mother and siblings owned homes nearby. Those also are gone now.

She continues to work at another resort a few miles from where the sisters are staying. On her days off, she sorts out insurance paperwork, including trying to itemize belongings lost in the fire.

Rosales recalled the night of the fire when she and her co-workers  almost all from the Philippines  were forced to remain in the hotel because roads were blocked. She didn't learn the fate of her home until the next morning, when her youngest son called.

Mom, no more house, he told her.

No, anak ko! she shrieked, using an Ilocano term meaning my child.

Around her, other housekeepers sobbed as they received similar calls.

Many longtime Lahaina residents, including Native Hawaiians, said they worry that whatever is built from the ashes of Lahaina wont include Filipinos and other ethnic groups who made it the working class community it was.

The new Lahaina should be the old Lahaina, said Alicia Kalepa, who lives in a Hawaiian homestead where most of the houses survived the fire. Mixed culture.

Gilbert Keith-Agaran, a state senator from Maui who is stepping down to focus on litigation work involving the fires, said he wont be surprised if many Filipinos leave. His father came from Ilocos Norte in 1946 for plantation work.

I think its hard to take the Filipinos out of the fabric of our community, he said.

Photos: After Maui wildfire, islanders survey aftermath and look ahead to recovery
BOSTON  Boston firefighter Daniel Ranahan had heard about colleagues getting cancer but he was stunned when doctors discovered a large tumor in his chest.

He was only 30 and had been in the Boston Fire Department less than a decade. But as he investigated his diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma in October 2020 and sought successful treatment, he learned he and others wore gear that contained the toxic industrial compound PFAS.

"You always hear about the dangers. You just never think it's going be you," said Ranahan, who stopped working due to the cancer and is among thousands of firefighters nationwide who sued PFAS manufacturers and companies that make firefighting gear and foam, seeking damages for their exposure.

"These guys put this on day in and day out to protect neighborhoods and wherever they are working," he said.

The multi-layered coats and pants worn by firefighters have become the latest battleground over PFAS, or per- and polyfluorinated substances. It's found in everything from food packaging to clothing and is associated with health problems including several types of cancer. In March, the Environmental Protection Agency for the first time proposed limits on the chemicals in drinking water.

The news that PFAS compounds are in their gear  primarily meant to repel water and contaminants like oil and prevent moisture-related burns  is worrisome to firefighters.

Cancer has replaced heart disease as the biggest killer of firefighters, and the International Association of Fire Fighters or IAFF attributes 66% of firefighter deaths between 2002 and 2019 to cancer. Firefighters are at higher risk of getting several types of cancer, according to IAFF, including twice as likely to get testicular cancer and mesothelioma than the general population.

Firefighters are exposed to a laundry list of carcinogens coming from fires burning hotter and faster than ever before  often due to increased petroleum products in homes. But as they learn more about PFAS, a growing number are convinced their personal protective equipment or PPE is sickening them.

"We had no idea that the gear that we were putting on every day was essentially loaded with PFAS," said IAFF General President Edward Kelly, who was elected in 2021 on a campaign in part to address dangers of PFAS in gear.

"As more scientific data availed itself, it became obvious that our greatest exposure to carcinogens is our a daily donning and doffing of PPE bunker gear," he continued.

One defendant in the lawsuits, 3M Co., said in a statement that it "manufactures a variety of personal protective equipment products that meet nationally recognized standards to help protect first responders facing high-hazard environments." Last year, the company announced it would stop manufacturing PFAS by the end of 2025 and would work to discontinue using the chemicals in its products.

Another defendant, W. L. Gore & Associates, says the PFAS compound PTFE used in its clothing is nontoxic and safe.

"Based on the body of available and reliable science, Gore concludes its firefighting products are not the cause of cancers impacting firefighters, who by the nature of their important work are sometimes exposed to cancer-causing chemicals from fires," said company spokesperson Amy Calhoun.

The American Chemistry Council said in a statement that "PFAS-based materials are the only viable options for some key equipment that meet the vital performance properties required for firefighting gear."

***

Heightened concerns about firefighter gear

The PFAS has been in the gear for decades. But the wife of retired Worcester, Massachusetts fire lieutenant Paul Cotter, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in October 2014, raised concerns about it in 2016. Until then, many firefighters had not heard of PFAS or did not know it was in their gear.

Gear makers told Diane Cotter there were only trace amounts of PFAS and it was safe. "I was attacked by firefighters when discussing the idea that chemicals in the gear could be causing cancer," she said.

Cotter sent patches of gear to Graham Peaslee, a University of Notre Dame professor who studies PFAS, for testing.

"It was loaded with PFAS. That was the first eye opening moment that there may be more than just trace amounts," said Peaslee, who also found the chemicals on gloves and in firehouse dust.

"They come off and they pose risks," he said.

Courtney Carignan, an exposure scientist and epidemiologist at Michigan State University, said she found PFAS at twice the levels of the general population in the blood of more than half of the 18 firefighters she tested in Nantucket and Fall River, Massachusetts. She also found PFAS in gear was transferred to the skin of firefighters.

But Carignan is still investigating how much the gear contributed to increased levels of PFAS in the blood and whether PFAS exposure may be causing or contributing to cancer.

"Even though we know PFAS is in the gear, we still don't know how much exposure that is," she said.

***

Firefighters file lawsuits over PFAS

The revelation of PFAS in the gear sparked a campaign by firefighters to find safer alternatives and to hold companies responsible.

Lawsuits on behalf of firefighters argue they were exposed to significant PFAS levels and companies knew the gear contained PFAS and that it can cause serious health problems. The suits also allege companies misrepresented their products as safe.

The IAFF, which represents more than 340,000 U.S. and Canadian firefighters, decided in 2021 to no longer accept sponsorships or advertising from the chemical industry and to oppose PFAS in turnout gear. A Congressional bill introduced in July would accelerate the search for safer alternatives and support firefighter training to reduce exposure from existing gear.

Seven states including Washington, New Hampshire and New York passed bills requiring companies to disclose PFAS in their gear, according to Safer States, a coalition of environmental health groups. Several more states introduced or enacted bills this year that provide funds to purchase PFAS-free gear or prohibit manufacture or sale of gear containing the chemicals, according to Emily Sampson, an environment policy analyst at the National Conference of State Legislatures.

***

There's no easy fix

For most fire departments, there is no easy fix. Replacing gear is expensive  one set can cost upwards of $4,000  and finding alternatives has proven challenging. Some companies are promoting a PFAS-free outer layer but that doesn't solve the problem because the other two layers still contain PFAS, the IAFF said.

Among the hurdles, according to a IAFF lawsuit filed in March, is that the National Fire Protection Association or NFPA standard for gear can only be met with PFAS-infused material. The suit accuses the NFPA of working with several gear makers to maintain that requirement. It seeks damages and an end to the standard.

Chris Dubay, NFPA vice president and chief engineer, said in a statement that the standard "does not specify or require the use of any particular materials, chemicals or treatments for that gear." He said the group has no "special agreements or relationships with any company or organization" in development of standards.

"The manufacturers who are producing this gear owe it to the fire service to come up with an alternative," Brockton Fire Chief Brian Nardelli, who has heard of companies promoting gear with less PFAS but is reluctant to buy it for his 231-member department without more proof.

Instead, his department tries to limit firefighter exposure to gear that's been integral to firefighter identity. They would take it everywhere, including charity events. Now, Brockton discourages firefighters from wearing turnout gear in living quarters and encourages them to wash it after fires. It's stored on trucks and is only to be worn for serious calls like fires and car accidents.

"Guys have seen everyone who has gotten cancer, guys dying from cancer," said William Hill, the president of the Brockton Fire Fighters Local 144 who was successfully treated for testicular cancer. "Being told that PFAS is in the gear, guys don't want to take the chance of being overexposed."
WAVERLY  Wartburg College on Tuesday announced the Wartburg Commitment, a comprehensive program that includes a new competitive price, reduced financial barriers for lower- and middle-income families and funding for all students to increase access to immersive experiences.

Here are the highlights of the Wartburg Commitment, which begin in the 2024-25 academic year:

Wartburg College will reduce its published tuition price by more than 45% to $25,000, bringing the overall cost closer to what students and their families typically pay. General fees also will be lowered.

The Access to Excellence program means all new students who qualify for the Iowa Tuition Grant will have their full Wartburg tuition costs covered through institutional, state, and federal assistance. Out-of-state students who demonstrate similar need will receive a minimum of $9,500 per year.

The Knights Experience fund will provide all students with a one-time disbursement of up to $1,500 that can be used to offset the cost of an experiential learning opportunity, like study away, internships, research, service trips and more.

Families often make decisions about colleges and universities based on published tuition prices without knowing about the scholarship and financial aid packages that significantly impact sticker price, said Rebecca Ehretsman, Wartburg College president. We want to remove that initial barrier for more families and ensure all students have access to the experiences we offer.

In 2022, the college clearly advertised that each admitted student was guaranteed a $30,000 scholarship. The more streamlined approach to financial aid, coupled with the hard work of the colleges admissions team, led to a 20% increase in first-year enrollment for fall 2023.

It is evident that our prospective students and their families responded favorably to clear and accessible pricing. Now, we have created a comprehensive program that allows more students to consider, afford and experience a Wartburg education, Ehretsman stated.

The new tuition model also will apply to returning students, who can expect their total net cost for tuition and the student support services fee to be similar to what they would have paid without the tuition adjustment. However, students who return to Wartburg in 2024-25 and subsequent years will benefit from year-over-year savings with annual tuition increases.

Access to excellence

To help more students access the Wartburg experience, all new students who qualify for the Iowa Tuition Grant and are admitted to the college will have their full tuition costs covered.

When we first started looking at our tuition model, we knew serving our lower- and middle-income families needed to be one of our top priorities, said Rick Willis, vice president for student recruitment. All Iowa students who fill out the FAFSA will automatically be evaluated for eligibility in this program.

As part of the Access to Excellence program, out-of-state students who demonstrate similar need will receive a minimum of $9,500 per year beginning in fall 2024.

Knights Experience

The final piece of the Wartburg Commitment is the Knights Experience, a one-time disbursement of up to $1,500 that students can use in their second, third or fourth year to offset the cost of an experiential learning opportunity. Qualifying programs include internships, research, study away, service trips and more.

At Wartburg College, we are committed to experiential learning that occurs both inside and outside the classroom. The opportunity to learn about diverse communities and cultures through immersion and shared experiences is a distinct aspect of a Wartburg College education, Ehretsman said.

Wartburg offers students opportunities in more than 60 areas of study. Wartburg also offers a Master of Arts in leadership.

Wartburg College, a four-year liberal arts college internationally recognized for community engagement, enrolls about 1,500 students. A college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Wartburg is dedicated to challenging and nurturing students for lives of leadership and service as a spirited expression of their faith and learning.
In his previous movies, award-winning filmmaker Michael White had tackled such topics as ghost stories, romantic punk fans and, even, the backstage drama of drag queens.

Yet, White, an associate professor for Wayne State Colleges Communication Department, said the subject matter of his latest flick was much more challenging.

Thats because The Cross was largely taken by his own family history.

Delore Morrow was my French-Canadian grandfather, White said. He and his family settled in rural Iowa in 1922, where he opened in a small cafe.

behind camera Exterior filming for "The Cross" took place at various locations throughout Northwest Iowa, according to co-director Shelby Hagerdon.

The Ku Klux Klan, then on the rise in the Midwest, targeted the Morrow family for being Catholic, forcing them to move away to Fort Dodge.

Iowa didnt have many racial minorities at the time, White said. Thats why the KKK went after people of different faiths.

The Cross, which White codirected with Shelby Hagerdon, will have its premiere at 7 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Majestic Theatre, 310 Main St., Wayne, Neb.

White had trepidations about telling the story, which had been relayed to him by family members.

My grandfather Delore died before I was born, and my grandmother died when I was very young, he explained. Revisiting the story, I thought, might be opening up old wounds.

mike white Michael White, Wayne State College associate professor of communication arts, recently completed production of "The Cross," his fourth feature

cafe The set represented Delore Morrow's cafe was built and filmed at South Sioux City's College Center. "The set was literally in the corner of a 

After doing extensive research, White discovered that the incident his family experienced was not an isolated one.

Indeed, other former residents of the rural Iowa town recalled past family members being tormented by the KKK.

The story, then, became a tribute to the perseverance of a family headed up by both my grandfather as well as my grandmother, who was a business owner when most women were stay-at-home moms, White said.

Influenced by films with similar themes like Claire Denis Chocolat, Milos Formans Ragtime and Alan Parkers Mississippi Burning, White and Hagerdon began the process of casting the movies, which had 16 speaking parts.

We were very lucky that Cedric Fevrier (who was hired to play the part of Delore Morrow) spoke French, White said. He was able to do a French dialect perfectly.

car ride Vintage cars added authenticity to "The Cross," a movie that was set in rural Iowa during the 1920s.

city view Filming of "The Cross" was completed over a two-month period in the summer of 2023.

Also getting high marks was Omaha-based actress Jessica Johnson, who assumed the role of Whites grandmother Vivienne Morrow.

As soon as Jessica walked onto the set, she became the much-younger version of the grandmother I remembered as a kid, White said.

Hagerdon was equally impressed by the younger members of the cast, which included Rachel Williamson, who played the part of daughter Madeline.

The part of Maddie reminds me so much of your mom, its scary, Hagerdon told White.

Filming took place between May and July, with interiors shot at South Sioux Citys College Center and exteriors shots in various locations throughout Northwest Iowa.

This included an actual cross burning, which took place on a rural farm and with the assistance of a local fire department.

clapboard "The Cross," the fourth feature film by award-winning director Mike White, had a cast of 16 actors, including the child actors who were playin

downtown "The Cross" used vintage wardrobe donated by Kristy Tremayne, of South Sioux City's New Stage Players.

lovers While it depicts the Ku Klux Klan tormenting a rural Iowa family, "The Cross" also tells the poignant story of Catholic girl falling in love w

While The Cross deals with a very serious subject matter, Hagerdon insisted she wanted a healthy emphasis on family drama.

That was especially true in the depiction of Delore and Viviennes three daughters.

Sometimes, it felt like we were making Little Women Meets the KKK, Hagerdon said.

Still, the film turns a spotlight on a not widely-known side of American history.

When people think of the KKK, they think it is a southern problem, White said, shaking his head. The KKK can be anywhere. They are an American problem.

Though the movie takes place more than a century ago, intolerance remains a persistent issue.

Discrimination continues to happen, White said. Maybe, our movie will start conversations.
Mitt Romney is not a foodie. That was made abundantly clear over and over again during his two-decade political careerhis record overflows with horrific crimes against good taste, to the point that Im surprised hes not been tried at the Hague. For instance, Romney has said that his favorite sandwich is peanut butter and honey, and that hot dogsas in, the Frankensteinian amalgam of beef and pork gristle, brutalized into a preservative-rich tubecounted as his favorite meat (as in, like, better than steak, or pulled pork, or even, I dont know, chicken thighs). When Romney was on the cusp of the 2012 Republican nomination, he told reporters that his wife prepares little meatloaf cakes for his birthday dinner every year. Meatloaf cakes! Apparently, these are small saucer-shaped meatloaf patties, glossed with a brown sweet sauce. The reason he likes [the sauce is because] its brown sugar and ketchup, said Ann Romney, to the New York Times.

And thats what I like, replied her husband.

Romney, of course, was the first CEO of the hugely successful consulting firm Bain & Company and is still one of the richest sitting senators in congress. (OpenSecrets estimates his net worth to be somewhere around $175 million.) He has rubbed shoulders with high society throughout the entirety of his adult life and managed to rebound from his failed presidential bid to become a respected bipartisan figure in the hearts and minds of liberal idealistswhat with all his BLM advocacy and frequent criticism of Donald Trump. However, Romney did always carry one congenital flaw throughout his public aspirations; the man was forever a little too weird for national political success. It is one of the greatest paradoxes in modern electoral history, a circle he could never square. Here is a savvy, wealthy, good-looking man from the pristine enclaves of the Boston suburbs, absolutely chowing down on a cupcake-sized wad of meatloaf, probably while in a private jet. (In that sense, Romney has plenty in common with countless other GOP lifers, like Scott Walker and John Cornyn, who frequently put their nauseating epicurean instincts on full display.)

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

This week, Romney confirmed that he wont be seeking reelection for his Senate term, which is expiring in 2025, likely marking the end of his public life. But just before hes gone for good, he offered us one last kernel of disorienting food gore, reminding us, once and for all, why he was never fit for the Oval Office. Heres the outgoing senator, in an excerpt of the upcoming biography Romney: A Reckoning, by McKay Coppins.

In the dining room, a 98-inch TV went up on the wall and a leather recliner landed in front of it. Romney, who didnt have many real friends in Washington, ate dinner alone there most nights, watching Ted Lasso or Better Call Saul as he leafed through briefing materials. On the day of my first visit, he showed me his freezer, which was full of salmon filets that had been given to him by Lisa Murkowski, the senator from Alaska. He didnt especially like salmon but found that if he put it on a hamburger bun and smothered it in ketchup, it made for a serviceable meal.

Computer, enhance.

Advertisement

He didnt especially like salmon but found that if he put it on a hamburger bun and smothered it in ketchup, it made for a serviceable meal.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Thats the Romney experience in a nutshell. Its emblematic of so many unsettling qualitiesa primal fear of new flavors and cultures, an elemental mistrust of the ocean, and most flagrantly, a lifelong belief that everything goes better with ketchup. To truly know the man, you must absolutely desecrate a prime cut of Alaskan salmon in front of the TV. So thats why, during last nights grocery run, I asked the fishmonger for a pound of wrapped filets and a bottle of Heinz, ready to internalize the dark essence of Romney.

Advertisement

Advertisement

If you want to be extremely charitable, ketchup and salmon is not a total mismatch of flavor profiles. There are countless variations of seafood-and-tomato stews across the Mediterranean (although most of those tend to be made with shellfish, or cod, or tilapia), so perhaps you can interpret a salmon filet slathered with ketchup to be something akin to the saddest bouillabaisse ever, or a terrible disfiguration of the Adriatic good life. At least, thats what I kept telling myself as I pan-seared a resplendent pink cutcoated with salt and pepperuntil it was delightfully flaky, with the scales crisping off at the edges. I love salmon, and this wouldve been a great meal in any other context. Unfortunately, the tools of catastropheketchup bottle and eight-pack of potato bunsloomed like a specter of death on the nearby counter. I actually felt remorse when I prepared the plate.

Advertisement

Advertisement

The verb used by Coppins in the excerpt is smothered. Romney smothers his fish with ketchup. It also mentions that Romney doesnt like the taste of salmon, which seems to imply that the condiment here must be applied at a large enough dose to totally eradicate the subtleties of the fishleaving only the processed, high-fructose tang of sugary tomato in its wake. I endeavored to follow Romneys instructions to the letter, so I excised a hunk of the filet that could fit neatly onto the circumference of the bun, and covered it with a veritable ketchup soup. I squeezed, and squeezed, and squeezed until all of the salmons appetizing pinkness was hidden in red glop.

Advertisement

I cant watch you do this, said my girlfriend, who was sitting at the kitchen table and trying to get some work done. Like, I genuinely think I might throw up.

Advertisement

I get where she was coming from. The sandwich didnt exactly smell bad. It didnt reek of dead flesh, or rotten food, or digestive materialall the usual stuff that might make someone hurl. Instead, when I brought the meal to my mouth, it simply looked wrong. Sinister. Almost evil. Whatever the opposite of a Platonic ideal form is. Here was a freshly cooked Alaskan filet dripping with refrigerated ketchup, mashed between a squishy, supermarket roll.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

You could change any part of that equation and generate something far more appetizing. What if the fish was instead swimming in a nice, grainy mustard? Or a blast of spicy aioli? Hell, even some plain-jane Hellmanns mayonnaise would be more appropriate. If it must be ketchupas Romney says it must bewhy not swap in a hunk of sourdough? Or a ciabatta? Anything to give the sandwich a bit more verve. Instead, my plate looked soft and overripe, an affront against God and man. I dont think a piece of fish has ever been disrespected more.

It somehow tasted worse than I expected. My girlfriend kept her eyes glued to the window during my consumption, in the same way you might stare at the ceiling while getting blood drawn. The sandwich had the opposite effect on me than it seems to have on Romney. The gobs of ketchup did not obfuscate the fish; instead, it robbed the salmon of all of its wonderful qualitiesthe oiliness, the seaborne tartness, the lean fatleaving only a pellet of dank ocean funk encased in slimy, vibeless, tomato product. It felt like eating a lunchable. The bite marks taken out of the bun revealed a tragic cross-section; there was the salmon, still gorgeousa scintillating medium-rarelingering under layers of sin, peeking out like a trapped miner. To think that one of the most powerful senators in Congress eats this thing to unwind! Sometimes you read about the archaic beliefs of the founding fatherslike how doctors removed liters of George Washingtons blood to cure a cold in accordance with 18th-century medical practicesand youre left wondering how those with such fundamentally crude understandings of the world are the same who shape society. This is the exact same sensation I had while eating the Mitt Romneys ketchup-salmon special.

Can we please get some normal politicians? Its gone on like this for too long. When Romney announced that he wouldnt be seeking reelection, he called on both Donald Trump and Joe Biden to step aside for new leaders to emerge. That literally cant happen soon enough. A better world is possible, one where the levers of power are not bestowed to infirm octogenarians, psychotic real estate developers, and of course, men who can only eat salmon when its dunked in ketchup.
In 2022, New York Citys Democratic mayor Eric Adams wanted to talk about crime. To anyone who would listen, he repeated again and again that crime in the city was rampant, unchecked, out of control. I have never in my professional careerI have never witnessed crime at this level, he said last year, echoing his campaign trail refrain that crime had reverted to 1990s levels. Wehe said on the stump, implying the Democrat-controlled local government, are waving a big white flag of surrender.

That rhetoric may have helped Adams win a crowded, low-turnout Democratic mayoral primary in 2021, but there were problems. For one thing, his hyperbole was plainly counterfactual. As the writer Ross Barkan pointed out in New York magazine, crime was up slightly over 2019 levels, sure, but homicides were down 75 percent since the early 90s. Adams, his mind made up that crime was politically expedient for him, continued braying about it through the 2022 midterm election cycle. Who it was actually expedient for was New York Republicans, who were borderline giddy about the mayors gambit. Borrowing from his unequivocally false pronouncements about crime being rampant and uncontained, they campaigned hard on that same talking point and crushed New York congressional Democrats in Novembers election, putting up the GOPs best statewide overperformance in the country. Eric Adams drew up the blueprint for Republicans, and they followed it to a tiny but meaningful House majority.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Since then, Adams has been undone, in part, by his own tactic. The problem with creating the impression of a nonexistent problem is that it becomes impossible to solve that problem, and Adams favorability, for that and a whole host of other reasons, has plummeted.

No longer as eager to talk about crime, he has settled on a new boogeyman as the 2024 election cycle heats up: the migrant crisis. This issue will destroy New York City. Destroy New York City, he said of the famed city of immigrants in public comments made last week. Theyre destroying us  the city we knew, were about to lose.

Advertisement

The comments were headline-grabbing for how blunt they wereand for the fact that that sentiment was coming from an elected Democratbut Adams has in fact been preaching this exact message to anyone who would listen since at least April.

Advertisement

For years, Republicans have been desperately trying to sell the American public on a migrant crisis. In 2018, they spent the last days before the November midterms prophesying an incoming migrant wave, and expected it to save their House majority (it profoundly did not). Since 2022, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis have gone to extreme lengths to bus migrants from their home states to the bluer locales of New York, Los Angeles, and Massachusetts, hoping that those kind of stuntswhich may yet yield criminal chargeswould make the issue a permanent fixture in the news.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Abbotts office, in particular, has boasted that his state has bused more than 13,000 migrants to New York City in a little over a year. And yet, that got less press than Adams theatrics, which have, in the words of the New York Times, given the GOP the border crisis it wanted.

Advertisement

There are, in fact, a large number of migrants who have arrived in New York City over the past 12 months, more than 110,000 in total, according to the New York Times. Some have family ties to the city, while others are seeking asylum in a city with a reputation for welcoming immigrants, a legacy Adams has been eager to disavow. Many of these migrants are coming from places facing economic collapse, like Venezuela, as well as parts of western Africa; others have fled the war in Ukraine. They are indeed a strain on some of the citys resources and finances, especially as they wait to have their cases processed.

Advertisement

This is all to say: How best to address the migration issue is an important consideration. But Adams is not only bungling the response, hes actively choosing to politicize it in a way that helps Republicans. He chose to give a no-bid $432 million contract to house and provide medical treatment for migrants to a company called DocGo that has zero experience furnishing those sorts of services. The company was already under investigation by the state attorney generals office when he handed over the contract. In a stunt straight out of late-night television, he circulated fliers at the Mexican border saying New York is too expensive, hoping to discourage migrants from coming. The urgency of his rhetoric is nowhere in his actual actions.

Advertisement

Advertisement

And Republican groups of all makes and models are delighted with that. Speaker Kevin McCarthy quoted Adams in public remarks and praised him openly. Far-right New York City Councilwoman Vickie Paladino celebrated the mayors comments so heartily she nearly accused him of plagiarism, saying she met privately with Mayor Adams shortly before the event where he said migrants would destroy the city and that she had communicated these exact sentiments to him in no uncertain terms. The Daily Stormer, the prominent neo-Nazi blog, praised the mayors remarks as based and insightful.

The White House, in turn, has been eager to distance itself from the exceptionally unpopular mayor, cutting him out of a presidential advisory team in May after announcing that he would be consulting for the president just two months earlier.

Advertisement

But thats a relatively recent development, and for the majority of Adams term, Democratic leadership has championed him and worked to incorporate him in a leadership role in the national party. In May 2022, while Adams was pushing Republican-style talking points on crime to the press, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and thenDemocratic Congressional Campaign Committee chair Sean Patrick Maloney invited Adams to be a featured speaker at the DCCCs Chairmans Issues Conference and Weekend, according to reporting in Politico.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

There, Adams directed an audience of 200 top Democrats to work on their storytelling chops. Incredibly, the meeting was very much about helping the Democrats get control of their messaging challenges, someone in attendance relayed to Politico. Of course, as election day got closer, it became clear that many of those messaging challenges were in fact being created by Adams himself. In a twist of incredible irony, Maloney, who ran not just that event but the whole DCCC, went on to lose his own reelection in a district Biden won by double digits, to a Republican opponent who went after him using the exact same tactic of fearmongering on crime that Adams had made commonplace in New York.

Advertisement

It turns out that its never really possible to beat Republicans on their own talking points. But it is possible to get more money from Republican donors with Republican talking points.

As the publication The City reported, Adams enjoyed major financial support, in the form of donations to super PACs supporting his candidacy, from hedge fund manager Kenneth Griffin, a top Ron DeSantis and Republican megadonor, and Daniel Loeb, a fellow billionaire financier and top Republican benefactor. Adams, of course, was a registered Republican himself from 1995 through 2002.

Finally, Adams has even more self-serving motivations for playing up the migrant crisis, beyond simply hurting his fellow (or not-so-fellow) Democrats. In the same breath as his migrants-are-destroying-New-York speech, the mayor announced a stunning citywide budget cut, blaming the decision on the migrants. To call that framing dishonest barely does it justice. Adams, perhaps owing to his Republican roots, has been clamoring to enact deep, devastating budget cuts since he arrived in office, despite the fact that the Independent Budget Office identified a massive budget surplus in 2023 and forecast another surplus in 2024. Adams has warred with the City Council over his plans to slash everything from preschool to library funding. His latest announcement of profound cuts is being justified by his offices eyebrow-raising projection that migrant services will cost $12 billion over three years; to that estimate, he is seeking 5 percent cuts from every city agency now, in January, and again in April. According to an analysis by the nonpartisan Fiscal Policy Institute, these cuts would far exceed the costs his office has predicted needing across three years to address the migrant crisis. Some of these are the same cuts Adams has been pursuing since before the migrant crisis became his top concern.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Related From Slate The Actual Danger of McCarthys Impeachment Gambit Against Biden Read More

Meanwhile, national Democrats who invited the wolf into the henhouse can only hope that Adams has not yet again created a winning blueprint for Republicans to overperform in this coming election cycle. In New York, in particular, where the party has designs on five separate House seats and has already pledged tens of millions of dollars, the entire House majority hangs in the balance.

Adams, who will certainly face some sort of primary challenge, will remain immovable until least 2025 when his first term runs up. The electoral advantage for Democrats of having him out of office is inarguable, though its unlikely any of their money will be put behind his eventual primary opponent. For a mayor who has accomplished little, kneecapping Democrats in two critical election cycles may well prove to be his legacy.
This week, a full six courts showed the importance of the rule of law and accountability for former president Donald Trump.

The rulings came from the federal courts in Georgia and Florida, from state courts in New York and Georgia, and from multiple appellate courts. The six decisions are cause for optimism about the state of our system of justice.

They demonstrate that judges from every jurisdiction and ideological bent finally appear to be on to Trumps favorite litigation tacticdelay, delay, delayand that they are through with it. Its worth digging into each case individually to see the full picture.

First, on Tuesday, Judge Steve Jones rejected Mark Meadows emergency motion to stay his order from last week returning the RICO case against Meadows to state court. As I wrote earlier this week, Meadows is essentially serving as a stalking horse for Trump, which means that when he loses motion after motion to delay his case, Trump also loses.

In last weeks ruling, Jones held that when Meadows participated in the acts alleged in the indictment, he was not acting in his official federal government role as White House chief of staff. Rather, Jones ruled, Meadows was acting as an adjunct of Trumps personal reelection campaign.

Then this week, it took the judge all of one day to turn aside Meadows request for an emergency stay of that ruling pending appeal. In doing so, he issued a 10-page opinion finding that Meadows had shown no substantial likelihood of success on appeal.

Advertisement

The court also held that the state and federal interests at issue in Meadowss actionas well as the public interestactually favor the resolution of his case in state court, rather than in federal court.

Those findings will not help Meadows appeal.

Advertisement

Related From Slate Trumps Ploy to Evade Punishment for Jan. 6 Is Coming Into Focus Read More

Jones denial in 24 hours of Meadows emergency motion was the mark of a court unwilling to tolerate any dallying in the search of justice.

In that impatience, Judge Jones was not alone, as demonstrated by our second key court decision. Meadows appealed on Tuesday, immediately after Jones rejected his emergency motion.

The same day, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit expedited both Meadows request to stay Jones ruling and briefing on the substantive issues.

Advertisement

Meadows withdrew the motion for the stay on Thursday after state court Judge Scott McAfee made clear that the case would not be tried with defendants who had sought a speedy trial on Oct. 23. On the substantive appeal, the court ordered all briefing to be completed within two weeks.

This is a court in a hurry.

Advertisement

Advertisement

It wasnt the first time the same court had moved swiftly in a Trump-related matter. Last year, it took only eight days for the higher court to stay District Court Judge Aileen Cannons aberrant ruling favoring Trump in the Mar-a-Lago obstruction and national security case.

Ludicrously, she had appointed a special master to oversee the review of the documents seized in the FBIs court-approved Aug. 8, 2020, search.

Advertisement

There was no precedent for such a ruling. It made no sense to have a special master expend judicial resources reviewing seized documents before anyone even knew whether Trump would be charged.

The 11th Circuits expeditious handling last year of this matter involving Trump was not an isolated incident among federal appeals courts. In January 2022, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit took but three monthswarp speed in appellate court timeto reject a different Trump appeal.

In that case, the former president lost his claim that executive privilege shielded his White House documents from the House Jan. 6 committee.

Advertisement

Like Judge Jones one-day ruling, the quick action of the two courts of appeals in prior cases indicate that federal judges are well aware of, and unwilling to tolerate, Trumps well-documented attempts to delay judicial proceedings against him.

Advertisement

Advertisement

That matters going forward. As his criminal cases proceed, Trump will almost certainly have one or two pretrial appeals to higher courts when trial judges deny Trumps legal motions. Such appeals can stall the trials.

In those pretrial appeals, the quicker the higher courts act, the sooner his cases will be resolved. Prompt, well-considered resolution of his claims will be good for the public and for justice.

The third instance this week of a court treating the business of Trumps trials seriously and expeditiously came on Monday, when New York Judge Juan Merchan released a Sept. 1 letter signaling that he might be willing to delay Trumps current March 25 trial date on the Manhattan case in order to allow federal officials to expedite his more serious Jan. 6 charges.

Advertisement

He wrote: We will have a much better sense [in February] whether there are any actual conflicts [with other Trump cases] and if so, what the best adjourn date might be for trial.

Openness to a later date based upon trials in special counsel Jack Smiths D.C. case and Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis caseboth of which allege Trump criminally conspiring to overturn the 2020 electionreflect a judge who understands the big picture of public need for the resolution of more significant cases.

Advertisement

Advertisement

The fourth instance is actually a surprise. In Trumps classified documents case, Judge Cannonpreviously seen as overly favorable to the former presidentissued a protective order safeguarding national security.

On Wednesday, Judge Cannon granted the DOJs request for a protective order to potentially limit Trumps ability to receive classified materials in discovery.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Significantly, the order specifically authorizes prosecutors to ask the court for an order to prohibit the classified information [turned over to Trumps lawyers] from being disclosed to [him].

That strongly suggests that the judge understands that in the past, Trump has, at best, been reckless with the nations sensitive secrets and possibly something far worse.

Though this is only one sound ruling from Cannon so far, its important to note. No one can say for sure that she has learned from the court of appeals slapping down her mystifying pro-Trump decision appointing a special master last year.

For now, even if her pace in ruling was not up to the standard of the other courts, she appears to understand the potential need to protect certain national security materials from someone like Trump. Thats progress.

Advertisement

The fifth example of the courts demonstrating the need for speed when it comes to Trump came on Thursday. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit accepted the request from Joshua Matz, E. Jean Carrolls attorney, to expedite Trumps appeal of the May jury verdict against him for defaming Carroll in 2019.

Trump claims that he is immune because he was president when he made the defamatory statements denying that he knew her and sexually assaulted her back in the mid-1990s. Attorney General Merrick Garland originally supported that claim, but in July, changed his mind.

In reversing himself, Garland decided that he lacked sufficient evidence to conclude that Trumps defamatory statements about Carroll were within the scope of his presidential duties. Federal courts often defer to an attorney generals decision about such matters.

Advertisement

On Thursday, the appellate court set a rapid briefing schedule of one month, signaling yet again that federal judges are not indulging Trumps strategy of delay.

Advertisement

Finally, on Thursday, Georgia Judge Scott McAfee denied the motions of Kenneth Chesebro and Sidney Powell to separate their trials from each other. This is a good sign for the judges appreciation of efficiency and joint trials for the other defendants who did not move for a speedy trial, including Trump.

Those other defendants will not be tried with Chesebro and Powell on Oct. 23. Not having requested a speedy trial, they are entitled to more time to prepare, as McAfee recognized in severing their cases from that of Chesebro and Powell.

When it comes time to deal with the anticipated motion of the remaining 17 defendantsor however many do not enter guilty pleas with plans to cooperateMcAfees ruling Thursday signals he will be inclined to try many, if not all, remaining defendants together.

Add this decision to the other five and you have a solid foundation for believing that the rule of law is asserting itself against a would-be reelected president bent on destroying it.
Fearmongering about crime helped New York Mayor Eric Adams on the campaign trail, Alexander Sammon writes. Now Adams is turning to a new boogeyman: the migrant crisis.

Weve been here before, Sammon arguesand the first time, New York Republicans seized on Adams talking points and took the majority in the state House. He lays out the political dangers of Adams latest scare tactics.

And ICYMI: Henry Grabar examines what Americans are getting wrong about the surge in urban crime.

Shutdown? Impeachment?

Why not both? Dont get the Freedom Caucus wrong: They think impeaching Biden would be extremely cool, Jim Newell writes. But its not first on the agenda.

Back-to-back disasters

A devastating earthquake in Morocco. Flooding in Libya that washed away entire neighborhoods. Both happened within 48 hours, and both have killed thousands of people. Shirin Ali spoke to someone from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies about how the organization has been able to respond to both at once.

Plus: Mary Harris speaks to Tara Powell, a trauma-informed social worker and professor, about fighting disaster fatigueand cultivating disaster resilience.

He means well

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Sean Penn has made a documentary about the war in Ukraine  and it shows the Hollywood star himself charging to the wars front lines. The film may be less about Volodymyr Zelensky than it is about Sean Pennbut Fred Kaplan is still glad it exists.

Gun ban blunder

Last week, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a public health emergency over gun violence. But even if it is clear that gun violence is a public health emergency, the move was still an alarming infringement on rights, and will guarantee a backlash that will only empower citizens, activists, and politicians who view all firearm restrictions as an existential threat to personal liberty, Mark Joseph Stern writes. He unpacks the potential consequences.

Talk Musky to me

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Among the international plutocrat class, one trend is unmissable: Every CEO talks like Elon Musk now. Nitish Pahwa sizes up the workforce-slashing, loyalty-demanding, extremely hardcore Great Men of Business.

Proud Boys plot twist

The harshest sentence for the Capitol riot went to someone who wasnt there. Aymann Ismail spoke with investigative reporter Joshua Ceballos to try to make sense of former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrios shock 22-year prison sentence.

Ketchup salmon sandwich, anyone?

Advertisement

Advertisement

In honor of Mitt Romneys announced retirement, Luke Winkie prepared himself one of the senators meals of choice: salmon, on a hamburger bun, smothered in ketchup. So how was it? Come along with Winkie for a truly cursed culinary experience.

Today, Slate is  * IN ITS VILLAIN ERA

 much like L.A. Sparks guard Layshia Clarendon, who has proudly declared themself to be in my villain era, and whose haughty swagger comes with some endearing self-deprecation. Madeline Ducharme explains why now is the perfect time for you to discover the joys of the WNBA.

Thanks so much for reading! Well see you tomorrow.
Trumps legal team has been mounting a campaign to disqualify the judge in his Jan. 6 casebut it seems like theres no way its actually going to work. This play is so poorly conceived and executed that it is difficult to believe the former presidents lawyers actually want to succeed, Mark Joseph Stern writes. That might be because the former president is targeting something else. Stern explains his theory about what Trumps real motives might be.

Plus: Dahlia Lithwick examines the cost of Republicans anti-democracy platform.

And ICYMI: Ben Mathis-Lilley has some thoughts on how Trumps defenses in the Georgia case also double as persuasive arguments against him being president again.

RIP NYC Airbnb?

Advertisement

What has become of Airbnb in New York City? Heather Tal Murphy looks at the new rules that have ousted the hotel alternative, and what might happen next.

Virginia Dems in danger

An unexpected scandal might cost Virginia Democrats control of the state Legislature. Christina Cauterucci explains why the stakes are so high.

A war of public perception

Advertisement

Advertisement

Wait, why is Kevin McCarthy launching an impeachment inquiry into Joe Biden now? Molly Olmstead digs into the real reasons behind itand the actual dangers.

Why are you like this, SCOTUS?

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

If youre wondering why Supreme Court ethics are such a mess, Ginni Thomas said something back in 2017 about Leonard Leothe dark-money kingpin and judicial impresario, as Dahlia Lithwick puts itthat gets at the heart of the problem. He has many hats, Thomas said. That isnt even all he does. He doesnt really tell all that he does.

Lithwick takes apart just how much this idea of too many hats reveals about the courts problems today.

RICOp City

If you cant stage an environmental protest in the woods without being indicted, where can you go? Nitish Pahwa takes a close look at how the same legal weapon that prosecutors used to indict Donald Trump is being turned against political activists, and all its troubling implications.

Pass the tissues

We all knew it! Ben Mathis-Lilley unpacks the news that cold medicine doesnt work.

Today, Slate is  * ALTERNATELY SHY, HOT, HUNGRY, AND FURIOUS

 much like Rebecca Onions daughter was when she was a toddler! Onion shares some comforting words in the wake of the New York magazine article about how friendship-destroying having children can supposedly be.

Thanks so much for reading! Well see you tomorrow.
Cryptocurrency has been a godsend for cybercriminals, enabling them to profit from ransomware, launder money, and move stolen funds internationally with impunity. In many cases, unless those criminals are careless or based in a country that takes policing cybercrime seriously, theres no way to get that money back once its gone. But U.S. law enforcement is now focused on stopping those illegal cryptocurrency transfers from occurring, rather than trying to deal with them after the fact.

These efforts have just been given a major boost. In August, a court in Texas ruled that the U.S. government could sanction not just cryptocurrency wallets or exchanges, but also an open-source cryptocurrency mixer called Tornado Cash that had been used to cloak more than $7 billion in illicit transactions since its founding in 2019. This is part of a larger U.S. strategy to prevent cryptocurrency-enabled cybercrimes by targeting the underlying cryptocurrency infrastructure that criminals rely ona strategy that represents a pretty significant departure from the governments earlier efforts.

In November 2018, the Treasury sanctioned digital currency wallet addresses for the first time as part of its measures directed at two Iranian individuals who helped convert extortion payments made as part of the SamSam ransomware attacks. But the Treasury quickly learned that sanctioning specific wallet addresses was not a terribly effective way of blocking payments to criminalsthey could set up new wallets, with new addresses, just as fast (in fact, much faster) than the Treasury could detect and sanction them.

Advertisement

While it was relatively easy for criminals to create new wallets, it wasnt as easy for them to find new exchanges to process their transactions and convert their stolen cryptocurrency to fiat currency. Many exchanges, especially in countries where cryptocurrency is regulated to some extent, keep records of the transactions they process, require that their customers provide them with some identification when they convert currency, or have limits on how much currency can be converted at one time.

Advertisement

Advertisement

However, there were still exchanges willing to do business with criminals. In September 2021, the Treasury Department sanctioned a cryptocurrency exchange called SUEX that was widely used by criminals to process transactions (according to the Treasurys analysis, more than 40 percent of SUEXs transactions were associated with illicit actors).

The Treasury then decided to go after the infrastructure that criminals use to cloak their funds and make them harder to trace. It turned its focus toward cryptocurrency mixers, which allow users to mix and intermingle their stolen funds in a way that makes it much more difficult to link specific cryptocurrency payments to a specific origin account or wallet. And so in August 2022, the Treasury announced that it would sanction its first mixer, Tornado Cash, which it had determined was heavily used by criminals, including the state-sponsored North Korean Lazarus Group responsible for the 2014 Sony Pictures breach and the 2017 WannaCry ransomware campaign, among many other high-profile cyberattacks.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

But sanctioning a mixer protocol was not exactly the same as sanctioning a specific cryptocurrency wallet address or a particular exchange. Unlike an exchange, Tornado Cash was not a formal companyit was, essentially, some open-source code on GitHub that anyone could use to mix their cryptocurrency, and was loosely developed and maintained by a decentralized autonomous organizationalso called a DAOwhich security researcher Nicholas Weaver described as basically a corporation that doesnt bother to do the paperwork to gain the legal protections of a corporation.

Related From Slate The iPhone Just Got a Little Less Special. Good! Read More

When the Treasury Department announced the sanctions, Tornado Cash was immediately pulled down from GitHub. This alarmed not just cybercriminals but also some internet freedom advocates and cryptocurrency exchanges who were worried about the future of their industry and questioned whether the government was free to simply remove any cryptocurrency protocol it didnt like from the internet. Coinbase, a popular U.S. cryptocurrency exchange, even funded a lawsuit against the Treasury, challenging the sanctions on the grounds that a DAO couldnt be sanctioned because it wasnt a formal company, and arguing that removing the code from GitHub prevented people from making cryptocurrency donations and also constituted a First Amendment violation by forcing the deletion of online speech (in this case, code).

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

The Treasury tried to allay these concerns by clarifying that even though the sanctions forbade conducting transactions using Tornado Cash, they didnt prevent people from viewing or interacting with the code for the protocol. That clarification didnt satisfy everyone, especially since it came after the code had already been taken down. The Electronic Frontier Foundation, for example, advocated for the government to have said at the outset that its sanctions would not be applied to the open-source project hosted on GitHub and would instead only be applied to actual transactions, not the publication of the code itself.

But for Judge Robert Pitman, who ruled on the Coinbase-funded case against the Treasury, there was no First Amendment problem with the sanctions of Tornado Cash. For one thing, Pitman pointed out, people could still use other services to make donations to important political and social causes. And for another, the Treasury had already stated that its sanctions would not restrict interaction with the open-source code unless these interactions amount to a transaction. That meant that people could lawfully analyze the code and use it to teach cryptocurrency concepts, Pitman said, so long as they did not execute it and use it to conduct cryptocurrency transactions.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

As for the argument that Tornado Cash couldnt be sanctioned because it was operated by a DAO rather than a centralized organization, Pitman pointed out that it wasnt terribly convincing given that the DAO was capable of doing many of the same things as a company, including placing job advertisements and paying contributors to the code base.

The Treasury has an uphill battle aheadCoinbases chief legal officer, Paul Grewal, has already said the company will support an appeal of Pitmans rulingbut the ruling is still a desperately needed win. Its a positive sign that the government is likely to have a fair bit of leeway when it comes to trying to police not just cryptocurrency wallets and companies, but also the more amorphous, loosely organized networks of people supporting protocols and projects that have the ability to do billions of dollars worth of damage.

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
In the digital transformation era, cloud computing has become a key driver of change, reshaping businesses and how they operate in the 21st century. The cloud engineer job has emerged as a pivotal role in this landscape, directly shaping the digital strategies of businesses across the globe, from startups to large corporations.

With an increasing shift towards cloud-based systems for IT infrastructure, data storage, and services, theres a growing demand for cloud engineers, opening up abundant opportunities for those proficient in cloud engineering.

Cloud engineers play a crucial role in the engineering and development of modular cloud-based systems, which enable seamless collaboration, enhance data accessibility, and streamline business processes. Their work is at the core of cloud initiatives, as they aim to deliver optimal cloud solutions tailored to a companys specific needs.

Drive Traffic to Your Website Discover the Zoho Ecosystem Sell Your Business Advertise Your Business Here

Cloud Engineer Career Path

Cloud engineering offers a dynamic and promising career path. Rooted in computer science and specialized skills in various cloud technologies, cloud engineers work in collaboration with developer teams to build and maintain cloud infrastructure. The cloud engineer job role could involve designing, developing, and managing cloud-based systems and applications, ensuring their efficient functioning.

Many cloud engineers start their careers in roles like software development or network management, where they acquire knowledge and experience of cloud-based platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud. As they further engage with cloud computing applications, they may choose to specialize in areas like cloud security, cloud database management, or cloud network engineering.

Cloud engineering isnt just about technical knowledge. A good cloud engineer also needs strong analytical skills to solve complex problems, an understanding of company security policies to ensure a secure cloud environment, and knowledge of programming languages and APIs to develop and manage cloud applications.

How Much Does a Cloud Engineer Make?

The earnings of a cloud engineer can vary significantly, depending on factors like experience, location, and the specific demands of the job. However, given the high demand for cloud engineers, its generally a well-compensated role. Entry-level cloud engineers can expect to earn a competitive salary, which only grows with experience and further specialization.

Small Business Deals

The earning potential also goes up with mastery of specific cloud platforms, such as AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure. Companies often seek cloud engineers who can navigate these platforms to leverage cloud resources optimally, build secure and efficient cloud environments, and drive new cloud initiatives.

Cloud Engineer Insights

Working as a cloud engineer involves a mix of technical, operational, and strategic responsibilities. On the technical front, cloud engineers manage cloud-based systems, debug cloud stacks, and ensure the efficient functioning of cloud services. They also play a strategic role, helping organizations navigate their cloud journey and adopt new cloud technologies.

Cloud engineers work in collaboration with different IT professionals, including solutions architects, cloud developers, and security services teams. Together, they work towards creating and maintaining secure, scalable, and efficient cloud infrastructures.

Cloud Engineer Job Description Example

So, what does a cloud engineer do? Heres a snapshot of a typical cloud engineer job description:

Role : Cloud Engineer

: Cloud Engineer Key Responsibilities : Designing, developing, and managing cloud-based systems and applications; implementing cloud initiatives; ensuring optimal performance of cloud services; ensuring a secure cloud environment; collaborating with development teams and solutions architects.

: Designing, developing, and managing cloud-based systems and applications; implementing cloud initiatives; ensuring optimal performance of cloud services; ensuring a secure cloud environment; collaborating with development teams and solutions architects. Required Skills : Proficiency in cloud computing platforms (AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure); knowledge of programming languages and APIs; understanding of data storage solutions; ability to debug cloud stacks; strong analytical skills.

: Proficiency in cloud computing platforms (AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure); knowledge of programming languages and APIs; understanding of data storage solutions; ability to debug cloud stacks; strong analytical skills. Qualifications: A bachelors or masters degree in computer science or a related field; relevant experience in managing cloud-based systems; certifications from recognized cloud platforms are an added advantage.

Working as a cloud engineer can be a rewarding career path,offering a unique blend of technical challenges and strategic initiatives. In addition to being at the forefront of new technology, cloud engineers also contribute to significant business decisions, directly impacting an organizations operational efficiency and strategic direction.

What is the Role of a Cloud Engineer?

The role of a cloud engineer extends beyond just managing cloud resources. They also play a crucial role in shaping an organizations cloud strategy, working closely with development teams to design, build, and optimize cloud-based systems. A cloud engineer responsibilities typically include:

Developing and implementing cloud initiatives aligned with the organizations business objectives.

Collaborating with the engineering team to design and develop cloud architecture, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems.

Identifying and leveraging new cloud technologies to enhance business processes and customer experiences.

Ensuring optimal performance of cloud services, and maintaining a secure cloud environment in line with company security policies.

Debugging cloud stacks and resolving infrastructure vulnerabilities.

Proactively monitor cloud resources and usage, implementing cost optimization strategies to maximize efficiency and reduce expenditure.

Develop automation scripts and workflows to streamline tasks and provisioning processes, improving operational efficiency within the cloud environment.

Collaborate with the IT team to create robust disaster recovery and backup plans for cloud-based systems, ensuring data integrity and business continuity.

Conduct capacity planning exercises to anticipate future resource requirements and scale cloud infrastructure to accommodate growth and changing workloads effectively.

Role of a Cloud Engineer Responsibilities Overview Cloud engineers play a vital role in shaping an organization's cloud strategy and optimizing cloud-based systems. Cloud Initiatives Develop and implement cloud initiatives aligned with the organization's business objectives. Cloud Architecture Collaborate with engineering teams to design and develop cloud architecture for seamless integration with existing systems. Technology Innovation Identify and leverage new cloud technologies to enhance business processes and improve customer experiences. Performance and Security Ensure optimal performance of cloud services and maintain a secure cloud environment in accordance with security policies. Debugging and Vulnerability Resolution Debug cloud stacks and resolve infrastructure vulnerabilities to maintain system reliability. Cost Optimization Proactively monitor cloud resources and usage, implementing cost optimization strategies to maximize efficiency and reduce costs. Automation and Efficiency Develop automation scripts and workflows to streamline tasks and provisioning processes, improving operational efficiency. Disaster Recovery Planning Collaborate with the IT team to create robust disaster recovery and backup plans for cloud-based systems. 9. Capacity Planning Conduct capacity planning exercises to anticipate future resource requirements and scale cloud infrastructure effectively.

With the ability to work on multiple cloud platforms and handle various cloud applications, cloud engineers are integral to an organizations digital transformation journey.

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Cloud Engineer?

Becoming a cloud engineer requires a blend of technical, analytical, and operational skills. Here are some key skills that cloud engineers typically need:

Technical Skills : Proficiency in cloud computing platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure is essential. Knowledge of programming languages, APIs, and database management is also important.

: Proficiency in cloud computing platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure is essential. Knowledge of programming languages, APIs, and database management is also important. Analytical Skills : Cloud engineers need strong problem-solving abilities to debug cloud stacks, identify infrastructure vulnerabilities, and optimize cloud solutions.

: Cloud engineers need strong problem-solving abilities to debug cloud stacks, identify infrastructure vulnerabilities, and optimize cloud solutions. Operational Skills : From managing cloud resources to implementing cloud initiatives, cloud engineers need to effectively manage a variety of operational tasks.

: From managing cloud resources to implementing cloud initiatives, cloud engineers need to effectively manage a variety of operational tasks. Strategic Skills: Given their role in shaping an organizations cloud strategy, cloud engineers also need to understand business objectives and how to align cloud solutions with these goals.

Moreover, as cloud technologies continue to evolve, cloud engineers need to stay updated on new developments and trends. This includes keeping abreast of emerging cloud platforms, tools, and best practices.

Job Description Template

When creating a loan processor job description, it is essential to outline the specific duties and responsibilities, required qualifications, skills, and experience, as well as any expectations for the workplace, schedule, and potential collaboration with other professionals. Here is a template to help guide you:

Job Description Template 1:

Job Description: Cloud Engineer

This template emphasizes the dynamic and innovative nature of the company, highlighting its specialization in a specific industry. It seeks a skilled and motivated Cloud Engineer who can design and implement scalable cloud solutions. The template also emphasizes collaboration with cross-functional teams and the importance of availability, performance, and security in the cloud environment.

Location: [City, State]

Company: [Company Name]

About Us: [Company Name] is a dynamic and innovative small business specializing in [industry]. As we continue to grow and expand our operations, we are seeking a skilled and motivated Cloud Engineer to join our team. If you have a passion for cloud technologies, a strong background in infrastructure management, and the ability to design and implement scalable cloud solutions, we invite you to apply.

Job Description: As a Cloud Engineer at [Company Name], you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining our cloud infrastructure. Your role will involve collaborating with cross-functional teams to understand business requirements, architecting cloud solutions, and ensuring the availability, performance, and security of our cloud environment. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of cloud technologies, excellent problem-solving skills, and a proactive mindset.

Responsibilities:

Design, implement, and manage our cloud infrastructure to support business operations and scalability.

Collaborate with internal teams to understand their requirements and design cloud solutions that meet their needs.

Provision and configure cloud resources, including virtual machines, storage, networks, and security components.

Monitor and optimize the performance, availability, and cost-efficiency of our cloud environment.

Ensure the security and compliance of our cloud infrastructure, including data protection and access control.

Implement automated deployment and scaling processes to support continuous integration and delivery.

Troubleshoot and resolve cloud-related issues, working closely with vendors and internal stakeholders.

Stay up to date with the latest cloud technologies, best practices, and industry trends.

Document and communicate cloud architecture, processes, and guidelines to the team.

Collaborate with the IT team to integrate on-premises systems with cloud infrastructure.

Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field.

Proven experience as a Cloud Engineer or in a similar role, preferably in a small business environment.

Strong knowledge of cloud platforms, such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, and their services.

Experience with infrastructure-as-code tools, such as Terraform or CloudFormation.

Proficiency in scripting languages, such as Python or PowerShell, for automation and infrastructure management.

Solid understanding of networking concepts, security principles, and best practices in cloud environments.

Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex issues in a cloud environment.

Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.

Benefits:

Competitive salary, based on experience and qualifications.

Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

Opportunities for professional development and growth.

A collaborative and inclusive work environment.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume, a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience, and any references to [email address] with the subject line Cloud Engineer Application  [Your Name]. We appreciate your interest in joining our team and will review your application with care.

[Company Name] is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees.

Job Description Template 2:

This template focuses on the rapid growth of small business and its specialization in delivering cutting-edge cloud solutions. It seeks a Cloud Engineer who can play a crucial role in designing, implementing, and managing the cloud infrastructure. The template highlights the need for collaboration with internal teams, optimization of cloud resources, and integration with DevOps processes.

Job Description: Cloud Engineer

Location: [City, State]

Company: [Company Name]

About Us: [Company Name] is a rapidly growing small business in the [industry] sector, specializing in delivering cutting-edge cloud solutions to our clients. As we expand our client base and services, we are seeking a skilled and motivated Cloud Engineer to join our team. If you have a passion for cloud technologies, strong problem-solving skills, and a desire to innovate, we invite you to apply.

Job Description: As a Cloud Engineer at [Company Name], you will play a crucial role in designing, implementing, and managing our cloud infrastructure. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand their requirements, architect scalable solutions, and ensure the optimal performance and security of our cloud environment. The ideal candidate has a solid understanding of cloud architecture, excellent technical skills, and a proactive mindset.

Responsibilities:

Design, deploy, and maintain scalable and secure cloud infrastructure on platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.

Collaborate with internal teams to gather requirements and provide technical expertise for cloud-based projects.

Implement and manage cloud services, including virtual machines, databases, storage, networking, and security components.

Optimize cloud resources for performance, cost, and scalability.

Monitor and troubleshoot cloud infrastructure, addressing any issues or incidents promptly.

Implement and maintain security measures to protect cloud assets and data.

Automate deployment and configuration processes using infrastructure-as-code tools, such as Terraform or CloudFormation.

Ensure compliance with industry standards and best practices for cloud security and governance.

Collaborate with DevOps teams to integrate cloud infrastructure with continuous integration and delivery pipelines.

Stay up to date with the latest trends, tools, and technologies in cloud computing.

Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field.

Proven experience as a Cloud Engineer, Cloud Administrator, or similar role.

In-depth knowledge of cloud platforms, such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, and their core services.

Strong understanding of cloud architecture, infrastructure-as-code, and automation concepts.

Proficiency in scripting languages, such as Python or PowerShell.

Experience with containerization technologies, such as Docker and Kubernetes.

Solid understanding of networking concepts, security best practices, and data protection in the cloud.

Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex issues.

Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with teams and stakeholders.

Benefits:

Competitive salary, based on experience and qualifications.

Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.

A collaborative and supportive work environment.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your relevant experience, and any references to [email address] with the subject line Cloud Engineer Application  [Your Name]. We appreciate your interest in joining our team and will review your application with care.

[Company Name] is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees.

Job Description Template 3:

This template positions the company as a leading small business in the industry, specializing in cloud-based solutions. It seeks a talented Cloud Engineer who can design and maintain scalable and secure cloud infrastructure. The template emphasizes the importance of the availability, performance, and cost-efficiency of cloud resources, as well as staying updated on industry trends and emerging technologies.

Job Description: Cloud Engineer

Location: [City, State]

Company: [Company Name]

About Us: [Company Name] is a leading small business in the [industry] sector, specializing in cloud-based solutions for our clients. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, we are seeking a talented Cloud Engineer to join our team. If you are passionate about cloud technologies, possess strong technical skills, and enjoy working in a collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply.

Job Description: As a Cloud Engineer at [Company Name], you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining our cloud infrastructure to meet our clients needs. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop cloud strategies, optimize performance, and ensure the security and reliability of our cloud environment. The ideal candidate has a solid understanding of cloud computing, excellent problem-solving abilities, and a continuous learning mindset.

Responsibilities:

Design, implement, and manage scalable and secure cloud infrastructure using platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.

Collaborate with internal teams to understand their requirements and translate them into cloud-based solutions.

Ensure the availability, performance, and cost-efficiency of cloud resources through monitoring and optimization.

Implement and maintain cloud security measures, including identity and access management, data encryption, and network security.

Automate cloud infrastructure provisioning and configuration using infrastructure-as-code tools, such as Terraform or CloudFormation.

Troubleshoot and resolve cloud-related issues, working closely with the IT team and vendors.

Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in cloud computing.

Collaborate with development teams to support the deployment and management of cloud-based applications.

Document and communicate cloud architecture, processes, and guidelines to stakeholders.

Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field.

Proven experience as a Cloud Engineer or in a similar role, preferably in a small business environment.

Strong knowledge of cloud platforms, such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, and their services.

Experience with infrastructure-as-code tools, such as Terraform, CloudFormation, or Ansible.

Proficiency in scripting languages, such as Python or PowerShell.

Solid understanding of networking concepts, security best practices, and cloud governance.

Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex issues in a cloud environment.

Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.

Benefits:

Competitive salary, based on experience and qualifications.

Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

Opportunities for professional growth and career development.

A supportive and inclusive work environment.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume, a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience, and any references to [email address] with the subject line Cloud Engineer Application  [Your Name]. We appreciate your interest in joining our team and will review your application with care.

[Company Name] is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all employees.

Job Description Template 4:

This template highlights the forward-thinking nature of the small business and its focus on cloud solutions for businesses in a specific industry. It seeks a Cloud Engineer who can architect, implement, and manage the cloud infrastructure to support clients business operations. The template emphasizes the need for scalability, security, and availability of the cloud environment, as well as the commitment to delivering high-quality results.

Job Description: Cloud Engineer

Location: [City, State]

Company: [Company Name]

About Us: [Company Name] is a forward-thinking small business specializing in cloud solutions for businesses in [industry]. As our client base continues to grow, we are seeking a skilled and motivated Cloud Engineer to join our team. If you are passionate about cloud technologies, have a strong background in infrastructure management, and enjoy working in a collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply.

Job Description: As a Cloud Engineer at [Company Name], you will be responsible for architecting, implementing, and managing our cloud infrastructure to support our clients business operations. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to design scalable cloud solutions, optimize performance, and ensure the security and availability of our cloud environment. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of cloud technologies, strong problem-solving skills, and a commitment to delivering high-quality results.

Responsibilities:

Design and implement scalable and secure cloud infrastructure using platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.

Collaborate with internal teams to gather requirements and develop cloud solutions that meet their needs.

Provision and configure cloud resources, including virtual machines, storage, networks, and security components.

Monitor and optimize the performance, availability, and cost-efficiency of our cloud environment.

Implement and maintain cloud security measures, including access controls, encryption, and vulnerability management.

Automate deployment and management processes using infrastructure-as-code tools, such as Terraform or CloudFormation.

Troubleshoot and resolve cloud-related issues, working closely with the IT team and vendors.

Stay updated on the latest cloud technologies, industry best practices, and emerging trends.

Document cloud architecture, processes, and guidelines for internal reference and knowledge sharing.

Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field.

Proven experience as a Cloud Engineer or in a similar role, preferably in a small business environment.

Strong knowledge of cloud platforms, such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, and their services.

Experience with infrastructure-as-code tools, such as Terraform or CloudFormation.

Proficiency in scripting languages, such as Python or PowerShell, for automation and infrastructure management.

Solid understanding of networking concepts, security principles, and best practices in cloud environments.

Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex issues in a cloud environment.

Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.

Benefits:

Competitive salary, based on experience and qualifications.

Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.

A collaborative and supportive work environment.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume, a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience, and any references to [email address] with the subject line Cloud Engineer Application  [Your Name]. We appreciate your interest in joining our team and will review your application with care.

[Company Name] is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all employees.

Template Features Job Description Template 1 Job Description Template 2 Job Description Template 3 Job Description Template 4 Company Description Dynamic, innovative small business in [industry] Rapidly growing small business specializing in cloud Leading small business in [industry] specializing in Forward-thinking small business specializing in cloud Emphasis Scalable cloud solutions Scalable cloud solutions Scalable cloud solutions Scalable cloud solutions Responsibilities Focus Collaboration with cross-functional teams Optimization of cloud resources Industry trends and emerging technologies Security, scalability, and availability Infrastructure Platforms AWS, Azure, Google Cloud AWS, Azure, Google Cloud AWS, Azure, Google Cloud AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Automation Tools Terraform, CloudFormation Terraform, CloudFormation, Ansible Terraform, CloudFormation, Ansible Terraform, CloudFormation Scripting Languages Python, PowerShell Python, PowerShell Python, PowerShell Python, PowerShell Security and Compliance Data protection, access control Network security, data encryption, access management Cloud governance, security best practices Access controls, encryption, vulnerability management Problem-Solving Emphasis Troubleshooting complex issues Troubleshooting cloud-related issues Troubleshooting complex issues Troubleshooting complex issues Benefits Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package Culture and Inclusion Inclusive work environment Inclusive work environment Inclusive work environment Inclusive work environment

Is Cloud Engineering a Hard Job?

Like any tech job, cloud engineering comes with its challenges. The fast-paced nature of cloud technologies means that cloud engineers must continually learn and adapt. They need to understand different cloud platforms, programming languages, and cloud-based solutions, and how to integrate these into an organizations existing systems.

However, for those passionate about technology and problem-solving, these challenges can be exciting. The role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies, collaborate with different IT professionals, and contribute to significant business decisions. The high demand for cloud engineers also means there are numerous opportunities for growth and advancement.

With the right skills and mindset, a career in cloud engineering can be both rewarding and fulfilling. Whether youre a recent computer science graduate or an experienced IT professional looking to specialize, theres never been a better time to become a cloud engineer.

So, are you ready to embark on a career in cloud engineering? With a clear understanding of the cloud engineer job description, the skills needed, and what the role involves, youre well on your way to a promising career in this exciting field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the primary role of a Cloud Engineer in a small business?

The primary role of a Cloud Engineer in a small business is to manage and optimize cloud infrastructure, design and implement cloud-based solutions, and ensure the security and performance of cloud services.

What are the key skills required for a Cloud Engineer?

Key skills for a Cloud Engineer include proficiency in cloud platforms (such as AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure), programming languages, problem-solving abilities, and a strong understanding of cloud security and applications.

What kind of educational background is needed to become a Cloud Engineer?

A Bachelors or Masters degree in Computer Science or a related field is typically required for a Cloud Engineer role. However, relevant experience and certifications in cloud platforms can also be considered.

Is prior experience necessary for a Cloud Engineer position at a small business?

While prior experience in cloud engineering can be beneficial, small businesses may consider candidates with a strong educational background in computer science and demonstrable skills in cloud platforms and applications.

What are the potential career growth opportunities for a Cloud Engineer at a small business?

Cloud Engineers at small businesses can advance their careers by becoming Cloud Architects, Cloud Security Specialists, or Cloud Team Leads, among other roles. As the business grows, there may be more opportunities for growth and specialization within the company.

What kind of cloud platforms do Cloud Engineers typically work with?

Cloud Engineers typically work with popular cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), and Microsoft Azure. However, they may also work with other cloud platforms depending on the specific needs of the small business.
Justin Tyler Dunbar, 34, of Grantsburg, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 20 years in the Division of Corrections, with ten years of active incarceration to serve in prison.

LEONARDTOWN, Md.

(September 14, 2023)State's Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Justin Tyler Dunbar, 34, of Grantsburg, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 20 years in the Division of Corrections, with ten years of active incarceration to serve in prison. Mr. Dunbar was convicted of three counts of felony sexual offense on the same child, with each act occurring on October 17, 2022.A St. Mary's County jury convicted Mr. Dunbar following a three-day jury trial in May 2023. Mr. Dunbar was sentenced as follows:-- Sex Offense Third Degree  sentenced to the maximum penalty of ten years in prison.-- Sex Offense Third Degree  sentenced to ten years, suspended, to run consecutive; and-- Sex Offense Third Degree  sentenced to ten years, suspended, to run consecutive.Mr. Dunbar must register as a sex offender for life and will be subject to lifetime sexual offender supervision.The Maryland Sentencing Guidelines called for a sentence between a range of three months and four years. At sentencing, the State requested Mr. Dunbar to 30 years of active incarceration in prison, all to run consecutively, which is the maximum penalty by law.Detective James Bare of the Criminal Investigation Division of the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office was the lead investigator.Senior Assistant State's Attorney Sarah Proctor, Chief of the Special Victims Unit, prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary's County.The Honorable Joseph M. Stanalonis presided over the case.
Daniel Karas wants people to experiment and make their own fermented vegetables.

Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share

Daniel Karas can trace his love of fermented food all the way back to his early childhood. One of his earliest memories is of sitting on the couch in his familys living room, eating sauerkraut. But it wasnt until a decade ago when he visited a now-defunct restaurant in Bratislava that he developed a passion for what is today the cornerstone of his burgeoning fermented food business - the Korean specialty kimchi.

Its taste may have triggered a memory of fermented vegetables from my childhood, but the overall complexity of kimchis flavour was much stronger, it had more umami flavours, Karas told The Slovak Spectator. It was a complete explosion in my taste buds.

Not just fermented cabbage

While in Slovakia most people know only the Napa cabbage kimchi, kimchi is actually a general term in Korea used to describe vegetables which have been fermented using the process of lactic acid fermentation  the same method of naturally preserving food used to make sauerkraut.

Benefits of fermented vegetables improves gut function

restores intestinal microflora after use of antibiotics

can help in preventing certain types of cancer

strengthens gut microbiome

antioxidant effect - prevent the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms and yeasts

maintain optimal pH in intestine

can help in improving mental health. Also contain probiotics Source: Rodkva Ferments

It means something fermented, whether its radish, cabbage, scallions, there are different alternatives to kimchi in Korea, says Karas.

At the time he made his fateful trip to the Korean restaurant, Karas was working as a chef and he realised how kimchi could be used to liven up dishes.

He started making his own kimchi in 2014, after attending a presentation on different types of kimchi, under the supervision of a Korean kimchi expert at the Korean Embassy.

I tried making kimchi using recipes I found on the internet, says Karas. He also experimented with other vegetables such as white radish and radish leaves, fermented dill seeds, and made salsa from green chillies, too. I totally fell for it, he says. He used shrimp paste or fish sauce in his fermented products to boost the umami flavour of the kimchi itself.

After speaking to various people who told him they didnt eat animal products he tried a vegan version, adjusting the flavours so that the finished product would go down well with both vegans and meat eaters.

To further read in this article What award Daniel Karas has won and for which products

What is his dream

Recipe for vegan kimchi by Daniel Karas

It took some years of fine-tuning, but he got there in the end.
Some media outlets write that the case bears a resemblance to the 2009 Ketamine Phantom case.

Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share

The story of a young Academy of Performing Arts student, 22, who went missing on Saturday night has been widely discussed in the media, but also among people living in Bratislava.

She went missing for more than a day before she was found. Soon after, people started wondering what she could have been through.

The woman, called Sona and who works as a project manager at the Slovak National Theatre, got off a night bus at the Zaporozska bus stop in the borough of Petrzalka on her way back from a bar on Svoradova Street in the Old Town. Suddenly, she went missing 150 metres away from her place.

Her phone, which had a localisation app installed, turned out to be useless during the search. The phone was either turned off or without Internet connection, wrote the Sme daily.

The young woman was found unconscious on Monday, September 11, on the ground near the Petrzalka hospital on Antolska Street by medical workers. Here, she was also admitted to the hospital.

The hospital is located four kilometres away from the Zaporozska bus stop.

The hospital on Antolska Street in Petrzalka. (Source: SME - Marko Erd)

In an effort to find out what happened to the young woman and how she ended up so far from her home, the police asked people to dial 158 if they saw a suspect near a retirement home on Vilova Street. The police even published the photo and the name of the missing woman and later, once found, the police removed this information from their social media channels.
Robert Fico closer to his fourth premiership, illegal migration, and a Slovak chef's obsession with a Korean specialty.

Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share

Good evening. Here is the Thursday, September 14 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes.

Friday, September 15, is a public holiday in Slovakia. Most shops will be closed. The next news digest will be published on Monday.

Another Russian diplomat told to leave Slovakia

The Slovak Foreign Ministry building in Bratislava. (Source: Slovak Foreign Ministry )

Slovakia has expelled a Russian Embassy employee on Thursday.

His activities, which were in direct violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, have been cited by the Slovak Foreign Ministry as the reason.

"The said person must leave the territory of the Slovak Republic within 48 hours," added the ministry.

The ministry, moreover, summoned the ambassador of the Russian Federation to Slovakia, Igor Bratchikov, to urge him to carry out their activities in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

Russia's Foreign Ministry told the TASS agency that it will respond to the expulsion of one of its diplomats.

"Moscow will give an appropriate response," the ministry pointed out.

Related: A few weeks after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Slovakia expelled 35 Russian Embassy workers. For espionage suspicions, three staffers had also been expelled before. Slovakia expelled several Russian Embassy workers in 2020 and 2021 as well.

More stories from The Slovak Spectator website

Election: The latest public opinion poll shows that Smer, Hlas and the SNS could be the coalition that will rule Slovakia from October.

The latest public opinion poll shows that Smer, Hlas and the SNS could be the coalition that will rule Slovakia from October. Bratislava: A woman went missing last weekend. Is Bratislava a safe city?

A woman went missing last weekend. Is Bratislava a safe city? Feel-good stories in short: This week's selection of good news stories will take you to the Slovak village of 2023, which you probably have not visited, and will show you a NASA photo. It is beautiful.

This week's selection of good news stories will take you to the Slovak village of 2023, which you probably have not visited, and will show you a NASA photo. It is beautiful. Art: The next lecture in the Slovak National Gallery's Open Studio will be dedicated to cyanotype photography. It starts tomorrow afternoon.

The next lecture in the Slovak National Gallery's Open Studio will be dedicated to cyanotype photography. It starts tomorrow afternoon. Food: Slovak chef Daniel Karakas is obsessed with Korean specialty kimchi. Are you?

If you like what we are doing and want to support good journalism, buy our online subscription with no ads and a print copy of The Slovak Spectator sent to your home in Slovakia. Thank you.

ANALYSIS FOR THURSDAY

In eye of illegal migration storm

Illegal migrants from Syria, as portrayed at the Foreigners' Police office in Bratislava on September 8, 2023. (Source: TASR - Henrich Misovic)

Migrants have been arriving in Slovakia in ever-larger numbers, attracted by a document introduced by a former Smer government five years ago which they believe, wrongly, grants them the right to stay in the EU.

WHAT'S ON IN BRATISLAVA

3 things to do in Bratislava for free

video //www.youtube.com/embed/v7IiP8Rz_3g

You can set out on an easy hike or listen to an album by Alicia Edelweiss. The Austro-British artist will perform in the city next week. Do not miss it!

In other news

In August, the Supreme Court confirmed the verdict of the Regional Court in Bratislava in the case that concerns former Czech PM Andrej Babis . The Supreme Court dismissed Babis's appeal against the decision of the regional court from last year. The regional court then dismissed the politician's lawsuit against the Slovak Nation's Memory Institute. The institution possesses the documents that show that Babis was an agent of the communist secret service, but Babis has repeatedly rejected this claim. His lawyers have sued Slovakia at the European Court of Human Rights due to the delays in the court proceedings. The case has been dragging on for more than a decade.

Slovakia is ready to extend the ban on the import of Ukrainian grain after September 15, if the European Commission does not do so . The ban would concern wheat, corn, rapeseed and sunflower seeds. Poland announced a similar decision on Tuesday.

In connection with the upcoming parliamentary election in Slovakia, the American Democratic Senator Bob Menendez has called on the head of Meta company Mark Zuckerberg to ensure that his social networks do not give space to disinformation and distorted news spread by Russia in Slovakia. Menendez has written a letter to Zuckerberg following a recent NYT article.

After Facebook and YouTube, the disinformation medium Kulturblog has also been banned from TikTok . It had almost 1,800 followers there. The medium has close links to far-right politicians Milan Mazurek and Milan Uhrik. (Aktuality)

The protection of Devinska Kobyla, a peak in the Small Carpathians near Bratislava and a nature reserve, will increase to Level 5 following a recent government decision. Devinska Kobyla has been a protected area since 1964. Slovakia has been facing a lawsuit, filed by the Commission, because of the lack of protection of the territory.

After 15 years, Bratislava renovated the buffet building on the popular Partizanska Luka meadow. (Source: Facebook/Bratislava - hlavne mesto SR)

WEATHER FOR FRIDAY: A foggy morning in some places. Clouds will remain with us for most of the day. Some had better prepare for showers or rain. The highest daytime temperature will rise to 26C. Saturday and Sunday will be warmer than Friday, with less cloud cover. (SHMU)

Thank you for subscribing and reading. It means a lot to us.

P.S. If you have suggestions on how our news overview can be improved, you can reach us at editorial@spectator.sk.

Follow The Slovak Spectator on Facebook, Instagram (@slovakspectator) and Twitter (@slovakspectator).
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/us-judge-again-declares-daca-unlawful-blocks-biden-effort-to-codify-policy-1113356597.html

US Judge Again Declares DACA Unlawful, Blocks Biden Effort to Codify Policy

US Judge Again Declares DACA Unlawful, Blocks Biden Effort to Codify Policy

A US judge again declared the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program unlawful, blocking President Joe Biden's effort to make the Obama-era policy a federal regulation, court documents revealed.

2023-09-13T23:35+0000

2023-09-13T23:35+0000

2023-09-13T23:33+0000

americas

deferred action for childhood arrivals (daca)

supreme court

department of homeland security (dhs)

joe biden

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/0c/05/1081366258_0:138:3000:1826_1920x0_80_0_0_978161affff2bba33724a9858f5a162d.jpg

The DACA program provides deportation protections to migrants who were brought to the United States illegally as children. "That... order is hereby reaffirmed and the original injunction and order of vacatur is hereby expanded to cover Final Rule DACA," Judge Andrew Hanen wrote in the court filing on Wednesday. However, Hanen said that DACA will remain in place for current beneficiaries of the program, allowing the government to process renewal requests. Moreover, Hanen pointed out that a final judgement has not been issued in the case. The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals previously declared the DACA program illegal in October 2022, but left the policy in place for some 600,000 immigrants in the United States who depend on the program.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20210723/daca-recipients-deserve-pathway-to-citizenship-kamala-harris-says-as-us-migration-crisis-persists-1083448488.html

americas

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

deferred action for childhood arrivals, daca, biden administration policy, daca program,
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/biden-white-house-bullying-media-over-impeachment-zelensky-threatens-to-terrorize-eu-1113365532.html

Biden White House Bullying Media Over Impeachment; Zelensky Threatens to Terrorize EU

Biden White House Bullying Media Over Impeachment; Zelensky Threatens to Terrorize EU

The Biden White House is accused of media intimidation as reports surface of a letter demanding that outlets probe the impeachment lies of the House GOP impeachment inquiry.

2023-09-14T04:54+0000

2023-09-14T04:54+0000

2023-09-18T13:37+0000

the critical hour

radio

joe biden

haiti

ukraine

china

nato

nazi

benjamin netanyahu

kim jong-un

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/0e/1113365011_0:0:1920:1080_1920x0_80_0_0_5be29148c55ac1c7e064cce580e0e766.png

Biden White House Bullying Media Over Impeachment; Zelensky Threatens to Terrorize EU The Biden White House is accused of media intimidation as reports surface of a letter demanding that outlets probe the impeachment lies of the House GOP impeachment inquiry.

Ted Rall, political cartoonist, syndicated columnist, and host of Final Countdown, joins us to discuss the Biden scandal. The Biden White House is accused of media intimidation as reports surface of a letter demanding that outlets probe the impeachment lies of the House GOP impeachment inquiry. Ted Rall says that a Federal Court has prohibited the Biden administration from contacting social media companies about their content. He also argues that this is bad because an official request from active US officials pressures the media to spin the news on their behalf.Mark Sleboda, Moscow-based international relations security analyst, joins us to discuss Russia and Ukraine. The Ukrainian military has launched another missile attack on Crimea. Mark Sleboda says that he thinks the timing was likely planned to coincide with the visit of the leader of North Korea. Also, seven of the ten missiles fired were shot down, and several marine drones were involved in the attack but were destroyed.KJ Noh, peace activist, writer, and teacher, joins us to discuss Asia. President Putin met with the leader of North Korea Wednesday to discuss a variety of mutual concerns. KJ Noh says that Russia and North Korea are discussing global strategic balancing. Now that South Korea is serving NATO in Ukraine, it is necessary to pushback and rebalance the region. Additionally, the US space force participated in US-South Korea military exercises. He thinks technological assistance will be a significant part of any agreement between the two nations.Steve Poikonen, host of AM WakeUp & SlowNewsDay live on Rokfin & Rumble, joins us to discuss the US empire. The US Empire deliberately provoked the Ukraine conflict. Steve Poikonen says that they are also finally calling the conflict a proxy war. He says the neocons operate as a death cult against our best interests. He also says that there are Rand documents that explain US intentions around the world and expose that they exist to destabilize nations for profit.Miko Peled, author and activist, joins us to discuss the Middle East. The meeting between Joe Biden and Benjamin Netanyahu has sparked international debate. Miko Peled says that this issue is nonsense. He lambasts Netanyahu for his radical policies, which should be addressed. Also, the current Israelis protesting against judicial reform are the most privileged group in Israel, and the US is concerned about their needs.Brian Berletic, ex-US Marine, independent geopolitical researcher and writer based in Bangkok, Thailand, joins us to discuss foreign policy. Chinese tech giants have launched a highly advanced 5G cell phone that seems to close the door on the neocon plan to use US sanctions to retard the advancement of Chinese technology. Brian Berletic says that the semiconductors in the phone were manufactured in China despite US sanctions. He says China's industrial base dwarfs the US, and the Asian giants graduate many more STEM students. He believes that the US policy is irrational.Dan Lazare, investigative journalist and author of "America's Undeclared War", joins us to discuss the EU. The murderous Nazi collaborator Stepan Bandera is important in Ukrainian culture and politics. Dan Lazare says that the idea of Jewish people today supporting Nazis is a disgrace.Kim Ives, filmmaker, journalist, and editor at Haiti Liberte, joins us to discuss Haiti. A new delegation from Caricom has arrived in Haiti. Kim Ives argues that these people work for the US, Canada, and France, and their goal is to get the two factions of Haiti's ruling groups to create a puppet government, which would then "invite" the US to come in and set up a military base in Haiti.The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comCatch us at 105.5FM, 104.7FM, 102.9FM, 1390AM, 1140AM

haiti

ukraine

china

north korea

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

2023

Wilmer Leon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/12/1082114047_0:-1:238:238_100x100_80_0_0_4e3adef3e334e381bffe19d388f4b776.jpg

Wilmer Leon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/12/1082114047_0:-1:238:238_100x100_80_0_0_4e3adef3e334e381bffe19d388f4b776.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

Wilmer Leon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/12/1082114047_0:-1:238:238_100x100_80_0_0_4e3adef3e334e381bffe19d388f4b776.jpg

the critical hour, biden's possible impeachment, haiti invasion, north korea-russia relations
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/controversy-soars-among-archaeologists-as-remains-of-human-ancestor-sent-into-space-1113357874.html

Controversy Soars Among Archaeologists as Remains of Human Ancestor Sent Into Space

Controversy Soars Among Archaeologists as Remains of Human Ancestor Sent Into Space

In a highly controversial move, the fossilized remains of ancient human relatives, A. sediba and H. naledi, were launched to the edge of space aboard a Virgin Galactic flight.

2023-09-14T02:58+0000

2023-09-14T02:58+0000

2023-09-14T02:56+0000

beyond politics

science & tech

south africa

virgin galactic

archeology

space exploration

university of the witwatersrand

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/0e/1113358163_32:0:565:300_1920x0_80_0_0_9af18f08fec201ab5fc9b6e2391691bf.jpg

The scientific community has found itself dealing with a bit of controversy after a Virgin Galactic mission, facilitated by South African-born billionaire Timothy Nash, carried fragments of ancient human ancestor remains on a voyage to the edge of space.These remains - a collarbone of 2-million-year-old A. sediba and a thumb bone from H. naledi -were selected by Lee Berger, an explorer instrumental in their discovery and a director of the Centre for the Exploration of the Deep Human Journey at the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa.Critics argue that the mission lacked scientific justification, posing a risk of irreparable damage to these priceless specimens in the event of a malfunction. The permit application for the mission was approved by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA), primarily aimed to promote South African human origins research globally, rather than address scientific inquiries.The ethical concerns surrounding this voyage are substantial, with some scientists categorizing the fossils as paleontological, rather than human, remains to circumvent ethical and legal constraints. The debate underscores the ongoing discussion about defining who we consider "human."Despite South Africa's right to manage its national estate, the controversial space journey has raised questions about the potential wider consequences and risks posed to archaeological heritage.Additionally, the expedition has exposed issues of entitlement and privilege, as it was orchestrated by individuals with substantial resources and access that most paleoanthropological researchers lack.The lack of transparency regarding the mission's objectives, risks and benefits has fueled the controversy. Many researchers have expressed concerns about the future care of these fossils, considering their unorthodox use in space travel.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/gigantic-bubble-of-ancient-galaxies-to-challenge-universes-fundamental-laws-1113328240.html

south africa

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

2023

Egor Shapovalov

Egor Shapovalov

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

Egor Shapovalov

virgin galactic, virgin galactic send human bones to space, human materials in space, ethics breaches in science, why did south africa send human bones into space
UN Sudan envoy announces resignation

Xinhua) 09:27, September 14, 2023

UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Volker Perthes, the UN envoy to Sudan, on Wednesday said that he is stepping down from the position.

Perthes made the announcement while briefing the Security Council on the situation in Sudan.

"I have had the privilege to serve as the United Nations Secretary-General's Special Representative for Sudan for more than two and a half years," he said.

"I am grateful to the Secretary-General for that opportunity and for his confidence in me, but I have asked him to relieve me of this duty. This will therefore be my last briefing in this function," said Perthes.

In response to questions at a Wednesday press conference, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Perthes has very strong reasons to resign and "I have to respect his will and accept his resignation."

The Sudanese Foreign Ministry said in June the government of Sudan officially notified Guterres that Perthes had been declared persona non grata.

A UN spokesperson then said Guterres "recalls that the doctrine of persona non grata is not applicable to or in respect of United Nations personnel."

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/eu-crackdown-on-chinese-electric-cars-may-hurt-european-consumers-and-automakers-1113373217.html

EU Crackdown on Chinese Electric Cars May Hurt European Consumers and Automakers

EU Crackdown on Chinese Electric Cars May Hurt European Consumers and Automakers

The European Union has initiated a probe into Chinas subsidies for electric cars, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announcing the... 14.09.2023, Sputnik International

2023-09-14T16:40+0000

2023-09-14T16:40+0000

2023-09-14T16:40+0000

world

europe

china

european union (eu)

ursula von der leyen

nato

electric vehicles

subsidies

investigation

trade war

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107750/08/1077500819_0:222:2998:1908_1920x0_80_0_0_0f38136a4275b5bd59bed1759219b746.jpg

While EU states and European automakers deem this move as a "positive signal", according to local media reports, China argued that the probe is primarily aimed at protecting the EU industry "in the name of 'fair competition'" and "will have a negative impact on China-EU economic and trade relations."Commenting on this development, Thomas W. Pauken II, geopolitical commentator and consultant on Asia-Pacific affairs, has remarked that it seems rather strange that Europe, despite being "very supportive of climate change issues," now makes moves that may discourage the production of electric vehicles simply because they are made in China."The EVs are playing a crucial role in helping to transition away from fossil fuels. China has built a lot of EVs, and they've exported them to the US or European markets. And I just find it really strange that now they're trying to block China's EVs when in fact a lot of European and US auto manufacturers are also transitioning to EVs as well," Pauken said.He further observed that the EUs concerns about the Chinese subsidies appear a bit peculiar, considering how "notorious for subsidizing their own industry" the European bloc's member states are.The plans of the European automotive giants such as Mercedes Benz and Volkswagen to sell their electric vehicles to China might also hit a snag if the EU were to try and make moves that would lead to a trade war with Beijing."If they have plans to sell to China, but now there's trade wars, this is going to be a very difficult situation for European and US auto manufacturers," he remarked.According to Pauken, such trade wars are unlikely to affect Tesla, which enjoys "a lot of success in China," but some of the other automotive manufacturers, those who are "involved with Europe," may not fare so well.As for what this move would mean for ordinary consumers in Europe, it would seem that they would have to pay more for this particular commodity."China has found ways to manufacture, mass produce EVs at a lower cost, and they are actually more reliable on their batteries than the European and the US automakers. And now they're going to get lower quality. And it's going to be more expensive for them to buy EVs because they won't be able to buy Chinese EVs," Pauken explained.He also pointed out that there is a matter of supply chains to consider since China "is playing a huge role in lithium-ion batteries, EV batteries.""Obviously, if these trade wars increase, the European EV manufacturers, as well as the US EV manufacturers are going to have a hard time mass producing their EV batteries. Most of them come from China," he added.Noting that it is possible that the US "also blocks Chinese EVs," Pauken lamented that "it always runs back to the US and the EU thinking they're hitting China when in actuality they're shooting themselves in the foot.He also speculated that von der Leyen being "very critical of China in recent months" may be explained by her alleged eagerness to take a high role in NATO soon."Obviously, if she is going to become the secretary general of NATO, she's going to take a very tough line against Russia and China. So basically, she is doing these trade wars just so that she can secure her promotion to NATO," he said.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230727/vw-buys-5-stake-in-chinese-ev-maker-xpeng-announce-two-new-electric-cars-1112198303.html

china

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

2023

Andrei Dergalin

Andrei Dergalin

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

Andrei Dergalin

electric car subsidy in china, chinese electric cars, eu china trade war, europe china trade relations
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/eu-parliament-blasts-turkiye-for-not-antagonizing-russia-in-new-report-1113372193.html

EU Parliament Blasts Turkiye for Not Antagonizing Russia

EU Parliament Blasts Turkiye for Not Antagonizing Russia

Releasing the anti-Turkish reports, which can be seen as non-binding documents, is not uncommon for the European Parliament, experts have told Sputnik.

2023-09-14T15:03+0000

2023-09-14T15:03+0000

2023-09-14T15:33+0000

world

turkiye

russia

european parliament

report

approach

european union (eu)

politics

allegations

ties

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/0e/1113371966_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_a9944d66aa587783ce94154ee8267e22.jpg

The Turkish Foreign Ministry has lashed out at the European Parliament's latest annual report on Turkiye as the document slammed Ankara over its close ties with Russia, among other things.Members of the European Parliament criticized Ankara for not restricting Russian media outlets amid the special op in Ukraine, while boosting Russo-Turkish trade, hosting Russian citizens and not joining the sanctions bandwagon against Moscow.At the same time, the report expresses concerns regarding a "significant decline in Turkiye's alignment with EU Foreign and Defence Policy, plummeting to a mere 7% in 2021."The ministry said in a statement that the report was "a collection of unfounded allegations and prejudices" and showed that its members fail to develop "the right strategic approach to the EU, as well as to our region."While acknowledging Turkiye's constructive role in "facilitating talks between Ukraine and Russia", the report, in particular, accuses Ankara of "not restricting the operations of Russian media outlets in the context of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine."He described the report as "just another bureaucratic paper filling the shelves of the European Parliament," which is "just making sure that it should be treated in Turkiye as a very hostile institution and this is how it is viewed in fact."When asked if Turkiye could fall victim to an EU witch hunt, he did not rule out such a scenario, adding that Ankara "basically sees greater opportunity in dealing with" Moscow, not through war profiteering though.""And Russian media outlets in this country are free to basically operate. And I wouldn't think that Turkiye would do anything about that. The European Union and particularly the European Parliament is and will be very critical of that," the political scientist pointed out.On the European Parliaments report, Ozertem dubbed it "a disappointing document for Turkiye", specifically pointing to the reports part, where "Ankaras attempts to uphold ties both with Russia and the West simultaneously are seen as undermining Turkiye's harmonization with the EU's Common Security and Foreign Policy."As I noted, this is a non-binding, advisory document. Currently, [the EUs foreign policy chief] Josep Borrell's office is also working on a framework to revitalize the dialogue with Turkiye. The European Parliament's document ignores a non-normative relationship based on transactionalism. We would see the framework drawn by Borell's office on this perspective later," Ozertem concluded.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20220724/turkish-observers-us--eu-hindering-russo-turkey-efforts-to-solve-food-crisis-mediate-peace-1097745149.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20220808/turkish-foreign-minister-notes-ankaras-role-in-eu-security-saying-turkey-is-europe-1099393881.html

turkiye

russia

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

2023

Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg

Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg

News

en_EN

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

1920 1080 true

1920 1440 true

1920 1920 true

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg

european parliaments turkiye report, russia-turkiye relations, sanctions against russia,
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/ex-ukrainian-prime-minister-accuses-kiev-of-stealing-billions-from-budget-in-arms-deals-1113372654.html

Ex-Ukrainian PM Accuses Kiev of Stealing Billions From Budget in Arms Deals

Ex-Ukrainian PM Accuses Kiev of Stealing Billions From Budget in Arms Deals

Ukrainian authorities siphoned off over 100 billion hryvnias ($2.7 billion) from the state budget by purchasing overpriced and poor-quality ammunition, equipment and air defense weapons, former Ukrainian Prime Minister Nikolay Azarov said on Thursday.

2023-09-14T14:00+0000

2023-09-14T14:00+0000

2023-09-14T14:09+0000

world

ukrainian crisis

us arms for ukraine

mykola azarov

ukraine

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/105305/69/1053056955_0:215:2879:1834_1920x0_80_0_0_4f11ef70003df662ed23f4c5ef45a75f.jpg

"According to the most modest estimates, [the Ukrainian authorities] stole more than 100 billion budget hryvnias. The representatives of 'Servant of the People' [ruling party] spent most of the budget money to purchase ammunition. [They] bought old poor-quality stuff at a 'gold price'," Azarov wrote on his Telegram channel. The ex-prime minister said that the same corruption scheme worked in air defense procurement, citing an incident when the authorities signed a contract for four air defense missiles, while in reality there were only three of them. After Russia's missile attacks, all of the four get written off and "someone buys a new apartment in Paris," Azarov added. The Ukrainian government has been rocked by a slew of dismissals linked to military procurement, the latest being Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy defended his government's poor anti-corruption record in an interview with US broadcaster on Sunday, saying lavish financial and military aid provided to Kiev by the West had not been affected.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230728/ukraine-corruption-poses-risks-to-us-aid---state-department-1112209797.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230117/uk-users-troll-zelenskys-wife-over-her-visit-to-davos-forum-1106417932.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

ukrainian crisis, ukrainian corruption, us arms for ukraine, corruption in ukraine
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/libya-floods-death-toll-surges-past-5000-as-thousands-remain-missing-1113356075.html

Libya Floods: Death Toll Surges Past 5,000 as Thousands Remain Missing

Libya Floods: Death Toll Surges Past 5,000 as Thousands Remain Missing

Northeastern Libya has been struck by catastrophic floods unleashed by Mediterranean Storm Daniel, leading to an escalating death toll and widespread destruction.

2023-09-14T00:20+0000

2023-09-14T00:20+0000

2023-09-14T00:18+0000

africa

libya

derna

floods

civilian casualties

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/0d/1113356272_0:0:3640:2048_1920x0_80_0_0_ea2d2b8eeb47eb927f2a8bca66a50684.jpg

The aftermath of Mediterranean Storm Daniel has plunged Libya into a humanitarian catastrophe, with over 5,000 lives lost and approximately 10,000 individuals still missing as disrupted communication lines leave families anxiously awaiting news of loved ones.Derna Mayor Abdulmenam Al-Ghaithi speculated on Wednesday that current death toll figures may reach between 18,000 and 20,000 due to the severity of the flooding. "We expect a very large number of deaths, it may reach 18,000 or 20,000," the mayor said on air of the Arabic broadcaster.About 25% of Derna has been destroyed by floods, Libyan Civil Aviation Minister Hisham Shekiwat told Sputnik on Tuesday, underscoring how "the scale of the destruction is very large."At the same time, Libya's eastern city of Susah is facing power outages, communication issues and road blockades, the head of the Susah municipal council told Sputnik."There is no electricity, the connection is weak or completely absent in some parts of the city, a number of roads are blocked," the official said.Morgues in Libya remain overwhelmed and hospitals are struggling to treat survivors, with local authorities noting that medical facilities are continuing to treat the injured as efforts are being made to transfer individuals to hospitals not yet filled to capacity.Rescue teams from Turkiye, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Tunisia and France have since arrived in the country, according to officials.In an address to the prime minister of Libyas Government of National Unity, Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, the Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi expressed his condolences and offered to provide the flood-hit areas with medicinal products and other aid, Iranian media reported.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/biden-lies-about-his-91101-whereabouts-libya-floods-and-impeachment-inquiry-begins-1113325144.html

africa

libya

derna

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

2023

Egor Shapovalov

Egor Shapovalov

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

Egor Shapovalov

libya, libiyan susah derna, floods in susah and derna, floods in libya, libya casualties, libya death toll how many, how many people died in libya, international help to libya, what happened in susah derna
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/matt-gaetz-doesnt-support-speaker-mccarthy-child-poverty-jumps-and-usiran-prisoner-swap-1113355755.html

Matt Gaetz Doesn't Support Speaker McCarthy, Child Poverty Jumps, and US/Iran Prisoner Swap

Matt Gaetz Doesn't Support Speaker McCarthy, Child Poverty Jumps, and US/Iran Prisoner Swap

On todays episode of The Backstory, host Rachel Blevins discussed current events including alien corpses were presented in the Mexican Congress, and Kim Jong Un states he "will always support Russia"

2023-09-14T04:10+0000

2023-09-14T04:10+0000

2023-09-18T13:37+0000

the backstory

radio

impeachment

real estate

capitalism

iran

2024 us presidential election

russia

donald trump

matt gaetz

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/0e/1113363436_0:0:1920:1080_1920x0_80_0_0_a5fde442cb47103776fbaea54be80b55.png

Matt Gaetz Doesn't Support Speaker McCarthy, Child Poverty Jumps, and U.S./Iran Prisoner Swap On todays episode of The Backstory, host Rachel Blevins discussed current events including alien corpses were presented in the Mexican Congress, and Kim Jong Un states he "will always support Russia".

Scottie Nell Hughes - Journalist, Former RT News Anchor, and Political Commentator | The media is forced to talk about the Biden family corruption, Americans support term limits, and Donald Trump's popularity continues to growKJ Noh - Author, Journalist and Geopolitical Analyst | Geo strategic balancing among North Korea & Russia, Putin meets with N Korea Leader Kim Jong Un, and North Korea shows support for Russia's defense of its sovereignty Todd "Bubba" Horwitz - Chief Market Strategist, BubbaTrading.com | Homeowners are afraid to sell their homes, The FED has systematically destroyed the economy, and child poverty doubled under the Biden administrationLaith Marouf - Broadcaster, and journalist based in Beirut, Lebanon | US/Iran prisoner swap, the relationship between Iran and Saudi ArabiaIn the first hour, Rachel spoke with Scottie Nell Hughes about the Americans in support of term limits, the Biden administration sends letters to the media, and the GOP begins the impeachment inquiry. Scottie talked about the lateness of the Biden impeachment inquiry and how the media is used to manipulate the narrative. Scottie criticized the GOP fundraising off the news of a Biden impeachment inquiry and the taxpayer money used to investigate corruption.Rachel spoke with KJ Noh about the way Donald Trump treated the North Korean, Kim Jong Un meets with President Putin, and North Korea has historical ties with Russia. KJ commented on the way Donald Trump treated North Korea as a rational country and the approach towards North Korea by the Biden administration. In the second hour, Rachel spoke with Todd "Bubba" Horwitz, talked about gas prices in America, the oil reserves are at the lowest level since 1975, and lies about the amount of jobs created by the Biden administration. Bubba spoke about the way the Fed has systematically ruined the economy and homeowners afraid to sell their homes. Bubba spoke about the unemployment rate and child poverty doubling under the Biden administration.Rachel spoke with Laith Marouf about the prisoner swap between Iran and the US, five billion dollars of Iranian assets unfrozen, and Iran sees the benefits of the joining BRICS alliance. Laith talked about the agreed prisoner swap between the US and Iran, as well the six billion dollars in oil funds unfrozen by America. Laith explained the recent agreement signed by the US and Bahrain and how this deal affects US relations with Iran.The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comCatch us at 105.5FM, 104.7FM, 102.9FM, 1390AM, 1140AM

iran

russia

north korea

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

2023

Rachel Blevins

Rachel Blevins

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

Rachel Blevins

the backstory, biden family corruption, term limits, donald trump's popularity grow, kim jong un meeting with putin, child poverty, us-iran prisoner swap
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/moscow-requests-moldova-stop-political-persecution-of-russian-language-media-1113366527.html

Moscow Requests Moldova Stop Political Persecution of Russian-Language Media

Moscow Requests Moldova Stop Political Persecution of Russian-Language Media

Moscow has demanded that Chisinau cease politically motivated persecution of Russian-language media resources and observe international obligations in the field of freedom of speech and media after Moldova expelled the head of the Sputnik desk in Moldova, Vitaly Denisov, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.

2023-09-14T11:24+0000

2023-09-14T11:24+0000

2023-09-14T11:26+0000

world

russia

russian foreign ministry

moscow

vitaly denisov

moldova

media

freedom of speech

rossiya segodnya

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/08/06/1112419155_0:215:2879:1834_1920x0_80_0_0_f3526ea8072ad982ea96b084a145f608.jpg

"The Russian side regarded this step as part of the anti-Russian campaign officially launched by Kishinev. They demanded that the Moldovan side stop the politically motivated persecution of Russian-language media resources and comply with international obligations in the field of freedom of speech and media and ensuring the rights of journalists," the foreign ministry said in a statement. The foreign ministry also said that such an "unfriendly" step by Kishinev would be addressed by Moscow, including by lodging a protest to Moldova's Charge d'Affaires Sergiu Goncharenko following Denisovs expulsion from the country. On Wednesday, Denisov was forcibly taken to the airport in the Moldovan capital and put on the first flight to Russia after being handed a deportation order dated September 8. Moldova accused the journalist of being a national security threat. Denisov told Sputnik he was considering appealing his expulsion with the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. The journalist has also been barred from entering Moldova for 10 years. He said the Moldovan migration service did not explain why he was deemed a national security risk. Kishinev also cited national security concerns as the reason for blocking Sputnik Moldova's radio broadcasting and websites after Russia launched its military operation in Ukraine in February 2022.Moldovan Party of Socialists (PSRM) slammed this move stressing that the expulsion of the head of Sputnik Moldova, Vitaly Denisov, from the country is a curtsy towards the West, violating human rights and democratic principles."The PSRM categorically denounces the unlawful deportation of the head of the Sputnik Moldova agency, Vitaly Denisov. The criminal regime of [Moldovan President Maia] Sandu has violated all possible notions of democracy, human rights and freedom of the press. Trying to please [its] Western masters in everything, the current regime disgraces and humiliates Moldova in the international arena," the party said in a statement.The party pointed out that Denisov had all the necessary work permits."To expel someone without letting them know the reason, without letting them gather their belongings is a gesture worthy only of a criminal, sadist and inhumane regime. The PSRM expresses solidarity with the agency's journalists as well as with all media workers, human rights activists and ordinary people hurt by the criminal regime of Sandu," the statement read.Earlier Director general of Rossiya Segodnya, Sputnik's parent media group, Dmitry Kiselev criticized the expulsion of Sputnik Moldova Chief and stressed that destructive policy of Kishinev crosses all adequate boundaries of the state relations.In August, a law on the creation of a center for strategic communications and the fight against disinformation entered into force in Moldova. The law was allegedly aimed at protecting Moldovan citizens from disinformation and manipulation at the national level.In the same month, 45 employees of the Russian embassy, together with their families, left Moldova in accordance with the decision of the Moldovan Foreign Ministry to reduce the staff of the Russian diplomatic mission.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/sputnik-moldova-head-says-will-be-deported-from-moldova-got-10-year-entry-ban-1113333187.html

russia

moscow

moldova

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

media, freedom of speech, persecution of russian journalists, crack down on free speech in moldova
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/no-grace-hunter-biden-seemingly-accused-obama-of-plagiarizing-his-father-in-2010-email-1113357702.html

'No Grace': Hunter Biden Seemingly Accused Obama of Plagiarizing His Father in 2010 Email

'No Grace': Hunter Biden Seemingly Accused Obama of Plagiarizing His Father in 2010 Email

Hunter Biden seemingly accused then-US President Barack Obama of plagiarizing his father in 2010. The then-Vice President responded that Obama had "no grace," according to emails found on Hunter Biden's laptop.

2023-09-14T02:43+0000

2023-09-14T02:43+0000

2023-09-18T19:48+0000

americas

joe biden

barack obama

milwaukee

white house

hunter biden

laptop

hunter biden charges

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/04/05/1094488259_0:0:2953:1662_1920x0_80_0_0_7660ed44a33f1445ca12e0add7ee4909.jpg

While serving as vice president to former US President Barack Obama, Joe Biden told his son Hunter that Obama had no grace after the future first-son suggested Obama borrowed elements of a speech from the elder Bidens time on the campaign trail, according to emails from Hunters infamous laptop.The email, dated September 7, 2010, was sent to Joe Bidens personal email account the day after Obama gave a speech during a pro-union festival in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.Interesting language from the President: They (his grandparent) would tell me about seeing their fathers or uncles losing their jobs...how it wasn't just a loss of a paycheck that stung. It was the blow to their dignity, their sense of self worth, the email reads.No grace, the elder Biden responds.Hunter appears to be referring to speeches Biden gave during the 2008 campaign when he repeatedly mentioned the struggles families face through unemployment.The accusation by Hunter that Obama plagiarized his father is particularly ironic since the elder Biden has been caught blatantly plagiarizing multiple times.Biden's 1988 presidential campaign ended in disaster after it was revealed he lifted his closing remarks of a debate from a British Labour Party politician. Multiple other instances of plagiarism during that campaign surfaced before he dropped out of the race. Biden also admitted at that time that he was accused of plagiarism in law school. The dean said in that case Biden had used five pages of a published law review article without quotation or citation.More than three decades after that ill-fated campaign, the Biden 2020 presidential campaign was forced to admit it used phrases lifted directly from nonprofit publications without attribution in the campaigns climate and education platforms.The White House, Obamas office and Hunter Bidens lawyers reportedly did not respond to requests for comments from US media.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20200823/good-at-plagiarizing-bidens-nomination-speech-drags-accusations-of-nicking-jack-laytons-words-1080256055.html

americas

milwaukee

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

hunter biden's laptop, joe biden plagiarism, obama plagiarism, obama biden relationship
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/norways-armed-forces-chief-says-nato-running-short-of-ammunition-1113379605.html

Norway's Armed Forces Chief Says NATO Running Short of Ammunition

Norway's Armed Forces Chief Says NATO Running Short of Ammunition

NATO's ammunition stockpiles are running dangerously low, with demand outstripping supply, head of the Norwegian armed forces Eirik Kristoffersen said on Thursday.

2023-09-14T18:35+0000

2023-09-14T18:35+0000

2023-09-14T18:35+0000

military

nato

norway

oslo

ukraine

nato expansion

nato forces

sweden

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/05/11/1110412183_0:163:3065:1887_1920x0_80_0_0_080655e63c912b4cb118e03ee44a70f3.jpg

"[Procurement] is still going slow. All the defense chiefs that I have spoken to say that the demand for new weapons surpasses production," Kristoffersen told a Norwegian newspaper ahead of a top-level meeting of the bloc's top brass. NATO chiefs of defense will gather in the Norwegian capital of Oslo on Saturday for their annual Military Committee Conference, the newspaper said, adding that 31 commanders-in-chief from NATO countries, plus current candidate Sweden, will participate in the meeting. Western allies began pouring weapons and ammunition into Ukraine shortly after Russia launched its military operation in the country in February 2022. The Kremlin has repeatedly warned against further escalation leading to NATO's direct involvement in the conflict.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230815/western-weapons-captured-in-ukraine-displayed-at-army-2023-military-expo-in-russia-1112613701.html

norway

oslo

ukraine

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

nato countries, nato summit, nato forces, norway in nato, nato expansion, us weapons, nato equipment, nato-supplied military equipment, us arms for ukraine, foiled counteroffensive, counteroffensive attempt, thwarted counteroffensive, counteroffensive effort, nato arms for ukraine, nato support for ukraine, europe for ukraine, cluster bombs for ukraine, cluster munitions for ukraine, cluster bombs, cluster munitions
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/putin-and-kim-jong-un-exchange-gifts-1113366740.html

Putin and Kim Jong Un Exchange Gifts

Putin and Kim Jong Un Exchange Gifts

Russian President Vladimir Putin presented North Korean leader Kim Jong-un with a glove from a space suit that has been in space and a domestically-made carbine during the North Korean leader's visit to Russia, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

2023-09-14T13:05+0000

2023-09-14T13:05+0000

2023-09-18T13:38+0000

world

kim jong-un

dmitry peskov

vladimir putin

russia

north korea

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/0d/1113341432_0:0:3026:1702_1920x0_80_0_0_c704032feac9fe722c7c6fd3c389e945.jpg

"Indeed, there was an exchange of gifts. We prefer never to announce it in particular. However, indeed, President Putin presented the North Korean leader a glove from a space suit, which has been in space several times and a Russian-made carbine of the highest quality," the spokesman stated. In turn, Kim likewise gave Putin a carbine made by North Korean craftsmen, Peskov added. Some other gifts were also presented, according to the spokesman. Putin to Visit North KoreaRussian President has likewise accepted the North Korean leaders invitation to visit the DPRK, Peskov stated. Lavrov to Visit North Korea in OctoberRussian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is also expected to visit the DPRK, with his trip scheduled for October.Fruitful VisitThe meeting with the North Korean leader was timely and successful and Russia will continue to enhance ties with the DPRK, Peskov noted. Build Relations Based on Mutual Respect Russia intends to build good relations with the DPRK based on the principles of mutual respect, Peskov stressed. Moscow-Pyongyang Military TiesMoscow and Pyongyang intend to strengthen ties in all areas, the spokesman replied when asked about military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, describing the issue as "sensitive."North Korean leader Kim Jong Un arrived in Russia on Wednesday for the first time since 2019. The chairman arrived in the Russian Federation on his famous armored train. The North Korean leader held talks at the Vostochny Cosmodrome with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The meeting between Kim and Putin lasted about six hours. The actual negotiations took about four hours, but the leaders also had time to talk while touring the cosmodrome.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/1113340697.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230727/russias-shoigu-kim-jong-un-hold-meeting-in-pyongyang-1112174712.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230912/kim-jong-un-says-visit-to-russia-clear-manifestation-of-prioritizing-ties---state-media-1113325522.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230912/all-weather-friends-why-are-north-korea-russia-ties-strong-against-all-odds-1113317356.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/putin-says-kim-jong-uns-visit-to-russia-taking-place-in-friendly-atmosphere-1113336041.html

russia

north korea

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

north korea, kim jong un, russia-north korea ties, russia-north korea relations, putin-kim meeting, putin-un meeting, putin-kim talks, putin-un talks, russia-north korea talks, russia-north korea negotiations, vostochny cosmodrome, vostochny, cosmodrome, vladimir putin, putin-kim, putin kim, russia-dprk, presidential gifts, presidential presents, putin-kim gifts, putin-kim presents
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/putin-kim-meeting-major-reset-for-russia-dprk-relations-1113362547.html

Putin-Kim Meeting 'Major Reset for Russia-DPRK Relations'

Putin-Kim Meeting 'Major Reset for Russia-DPRK Relations'

Wednesdays meeting between Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong UN became the substantive interaction, in which the North Korean leader has taken part, Washington-based politicla analyst Michael Madden told Sputnik.

2023-09-14T09:35+0000

2023-09-14T09:35+0000

2023-09-18T13:34+0000

world

russia

vladimir putin

kim jong-un

talks

vostochny cosmodrome

meeting

north korea

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/0e/1113361553_0:168:3045:1881_1920x0_80_0_0_1925fe2fb257a62e290181a38f432f2a.jpg

During a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russias Far East on Wednesday, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged his countrys full-fledged support for all decisions made by Moscow.Putin, for his part, touted the Wednesday talks as "very productive", adding that a very frank exchange of views took place on the situation in the region and on bilateral relations."He recalled that many of Kims prior interactions with foreign leadership "were either narrowly focused on nuclear weapons or inter-Korean negotiations. According to Madden, the North Korean leader's meeting with Putin "has a bit more heft because it was more wide ranging.""This is certainly the most extensive and substantive interaction in which Kim Jong Un has participated, and certainly the most extensive substantive summit meeting North Korea has participated since 2011, when Kim Jong Il was still alive," the pundit pointed out.He likewise suggested that "the primary goal" for Putin and Kim "was partially to reconnect on an interpersonal level, after four years." Madden mentioned "a number of areas of cooperation, which this meeting was either originating, such as space development, or expanding, such as educational and cultural exchanges."Touching upon the topics Putin and Kim focused on during the talks, Madden recalled that North Korea and Russia "share a small border", which is why he said "the most significant and common issue they have, albeit I do not know whether it was discussed, is development and expansion of the northeast Asia corridor between the DPRK, Russia and China."The pundit said that North Korea and Russia "have had levels of cooperation for many years and those are areas which they can leverage and build up," something that he said includes diplomatic, cultural and educational exchanges.During the meeting, Putin, in particular, said that he takes pride in the development of Russia's space industry. Madden noted in this regard that the DPRK "has sincere space aspirations or aspirations for a civilian space program and no doubt Russia has the experience and knowledge to help the North Koreans."

russia

north korea

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

2023

Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg

Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg

News

en_EN

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

1920 1080 true

1920 1440 true

1920 1920 true

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg

russian president vladimir putin, north korean leader kim jong un, talks between russian president vladimir putin and north korean leader kim jong un, putin-kim meeting at the vostochny cosmodrome
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/republican-2024-hopeful-ramaswamy-vows-to-close-multiple-us-agencies-if-elected-1113358818.html

Republican 2024 Hopeful Ramaswamy Vows to Close Multiple US Agencies if Elected

Republican 2024 Hopeful Ramaswamy Vows to Close Multiple US Agencies if Elected

Vivek Ramaswamy, a contender for the Republican Partys presidential nomination, said he would seek to reduce the size of the US federal government by closing down five agencies if elected president in 2024.

2023-09-14T03:15+0000

2023-09-14T03:15+0000

2023-09-14T03:13+0000

americas

vivek ramaswamy

fbi

bureau of alcohol, tobacco, firearms and explosives (atf)

us department of education

us nuclear regulatory commission (nrc)

us department of agriculture (usda)

2024 us presidential election

federal workers

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/07/17/1083444602_0:106:2048:1258_1920x0_80_0_0_46ea6e722f2abb68f6bba033ec880593.jpg

The plan is to "reduce the size of the federal employees down by 75% by the end of the first term," Ramaswamy told Semafor on Wednesday. The agencies that would be closed include the FBI; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Department of Education; the Nuclear Regulatory Commission; and the Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Services, he said. Ramaswamy pointed out he would use executive action and bypass Congress to close the agencies. In addition, Ramaswamy said he would also execute "a revision of at least 50% of federal regulations that failed the Supreme Court's test." The plan does not entail replacing the agencies, however, it does envision relocating some employees to other government units, Ramaswamy said. For example, 15,000 of the 35,000 FBI employees would be reassigned to roles within the US Marshals Service, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network and the Drug Enforcement Administration, Ramaswamy added.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230903/ramaswamy-to-vote-for-trump-in-2024-election-even-if-hes-convicted-1113094128.html

americas

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

vivek ramaswamy, republican party, 2024 republican contender, fbi, atf, us nuclear regulatory commission, department of agriculture's food and nutrition services, us department of education
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/russia-declares-2-employees-of-us-embassy-personae-non-gratae-1113371595.html

Russia Declares Two US Embassy Employees Personae Non Gratae

Russia Declares Two US Embassy Employees Personae Non Gratae

Russia declared two employees of the embassy of the United States in Moscow personae non gratae on Thursday, and they have to leave the country within seven days, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

2023-09-14T13:31+0000

2023-09-14T13:31+0000

2023-09-14T14:52+0000

world

russian foreign ministry

russia

us

us foreign policy

diplomatic expulsions

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/0a/0c/1089858677_0:143:3072:1871_1920x0_80_0_0_a89bea0d042761c8588bf05ed990d0fa.jpg

According to the statement, US Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy was summoned to the ministry on Thursday to receive a strong demarche over the actions of Jeffrey Sillin and David Bernstein, the first and the second secretaries of the Embassy, which are incompatible with the diplomatic status. These persons [Sillin and Berstein] carried out illegal activities by maintaining contact with Russian citizen [Robert] Shonov, accused of confidential cooperation with a foreign state. [Shonov] was given tasks with the goal of harming the national security of the Russian Federation for financial compensation. The US ambassador was informed that J. Sillin and D. Bernstein must leave Russian territory within 7 days in the status of persona non grata, the ministry said. The ministry added that the actions of the US diplomatic mission, including interference in Russias internal affairs, were unacceptable. The Russian side expects Washington to draw the right conclusions and refrain from confrontational steps, the ministry emphasized.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230828/russias-fsb-says-stopped-illegal-activity-of-informant-of-us-embassy-in-moscow-shonov-1112938312.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230817/majority-of-us-disapproves-of-bidens-handling-of-economy-foreign-policy---poll-1112659303.html

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

russian foreign policy, us foreign policy, expulsion of diplomats, us diplomats,non gratae
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/russia-expects-that-regular-dialog-contacts-with-gabon-be-maintained-1113360154.html

Russia Expects That Regular Dialog, Contacts With Gabon Be Maintained

Russia Expects That Regular Dialog, Contacts With Gabon Be Maintained

The military takeover in Gabon should not affect multifaceted ties between Moscow and Libreville, the Russian Foreign Ministry has told Sputnik, adding that Moscow expects that regular dialog and contacts with Gabon be maintained.

2023-09-14T05:10+0000

2023-09-14T05:10+0000

2023-09-14T05:10+0000

africa

russian foreign ministry

gabon

russia

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/02/17/1107745660_0:161:3071:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_8d6ed510b9e59ae9e81809cac5eecd9a.jpg

"The coup in Gabon that took place on August 30 should not affect the constructive content of the multifaceted ties between Moscow and Libreville. We expect that regular political and diplomatic dialogue and contacts be maintained, and mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation with this friendly African country be developed," the ministry said. The Russian ministry is interested in the "strengthening of coordination with the new Gabonese leadership on join steps within the United Nations and other multilateral structures." "We are ready to continue our work to identify projects that could give impetus to further development of fruitful cooperation in trade, economy, investments and other areas," the ministry said. The ministry noted that it considers "the Gabonese Republic to be one of our important partners on the African continent" while recalling that "Russia-Gabon relations are traditionally friendly." On August 30, Gabonese President Ali Bongo Ondimba, who has been in power since 2009, was reelected for a third term after securing 64.2% of the vote. The Gabonese military then ousted him in a coup, declaring the election results canceled and all institutions dissolved. The military has promised it would gradually build transitional institutions, with Gabon fulfilling all its domestic and international obligations.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230728/russias-partnership-with-africa-contrasts-with-western-colonialism-1112216285.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230728/africa-becoming-center-of-power-this-reality-will-have-to-be-considered--putin-1112210736.html

africa

gabon

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

russia, africa, russo-african relations, russia gabon, russia african
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/they-will-be-hunted-down-ukrainian-military-speaker-threatens-russian-journalists-1113379420.html

'They Will be Hunted Down': Ukrainian Military Speaker Threatens Russian Journalists

'They Will be Hunted Down': Ukrainian Military Speaker Threatens Russian Journalists

The official speaker for the Ukrainian Armed Forces has threatened Russian journalists with violence and, possibly, death on X (formerly known as Twitter). Netizens were disgusted and mocked the hate speech.

2023-09-14T19:10+0000

2023-09-14T19:10+0000

2023-09-14T19:10+0000

us

world

russia

scott bennett

ukraine

ukrainian armed forces

mirotvorets

margarita simonyan

ukrainian counteroffensive attempt

opinion

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/105745/19/1057451969_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_63df07b1b4a8e76cc1f55b7f48539591.jpg

Ukrainian military's official spokersperon, Sarah Ashton-Cirillo (formerly Michael John Cirillo), has released an emotionally charged video message on X, threatening Russian and pro-Russian journalists with violence.Smearing and dehumanizing targeted reporters as "war criminal propagandists" Ashton-Cirillo claimed that they will be "hunted down" and then "justice will be served."The speaker particularly hinted that "next week" the world will see Moscow's "favorite criminal propagandist" "pay" for Russia's "crimes."While Ashton-Cirillo did not name the alleged victim, some Russian bloggers assumed that the speaker meant RT and Sputnik Editor-in-Chief Margarita Simonyan, who earlier received death threats from Ukrainian nationalists.In August 2022, the Ukrainian neo-Nazi Azov Battalion* sent a letter to Simonyan saying that they had "sentenced" her "to death" for supporting Russia's military operation in Ukraine. In July 2023, Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) announced that it had detained members of a neo-Nazi group plotting to kill the Russian journalist.The Kiev regime and the country's nationalist battalions are well known for suppressing the freedom of speech and persecuting Ukrainian and foreign journalists.Ukraine's infamous Mirotvorets website maintains a "kill list" containing personal data of dissenting reporters, politicians, opposition figures, bloggers, and even children, who are labeled "enemies of Ukraine."Every time an individual on the list is killed, a "liquidated" inscription appears on his or her photograph on the website. Those murdered include Ukrainian publicist Oles Buzina, legislator Oleg Kalashnikov, Russian journalists Zemfira Suleimanova, Igor Kornelyuk and Anton Voloshin, Russian photojournalist Andrey Stenin, Italian freelance photojournalist Andrea Rocchelli, and Darya Dugina, the daughter of Russian philosopher Alexander Dugin, to name but a few.Ashton-Cirillo's video message has not gone unnoticed in Russia. Russian Foreign Ministry's spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, highlighted that the statement is further evidence of the US-backed Kiev regime's terrorist activities and promised to send the video in question to various international organizations.Meanwhile, on X, Ashton-Cirillo's announcement has been largely met with a mixture of sarcasm and aversion."This is scary.... but not in the way he thinks it is," another X user commented."What a horrible and terrible hate speech. You should be ashamed," wrote X user nicknamed SheilaG2024.X user Dale Plemons was laconic: "Reported", he wrote, adding a screenshot of his complaint to the platform. The screenshot shows that the netizen qualified Ashton-Cirillo's message as "abusive behavior" and "glorification of violence."The Ukrainian military spokesperson's statement comes as the Kiev regime has failed to make progress on the battlefield over the last three months. The Ukrainian Armed Forces have intensified bombardment of Russia's territory, but that cannot change the status quo on the battlefield, according to US military experts interviewed by Sputnik. Meanwhile, Ukrainian troops increasingly surrender, complaining about the lack of training and equipment.The US security expert does not rule out that the conflict may end in the next 30 to 60 days with Russia winning. Bennett also suggested that sane Ukrainian military, who are tired of seeing their compatriots being sent by the Kiev regime to a "meat-grinder", could stand up against Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. If the conflict continues, Ukraine would turn into a "no man's land," warned Bennett.*Azov Battalion is a terrorist organization banned in Russia.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230715/plot-against-simonyan-and-sobchaks-life-confirms-terrorist-essence-of-zelensky-regime---moscow-1111895154.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20220919/mirotvorets-kill-list-west-left-its-own-people-to-mercy-of-ukraines-gestapo-website-journo-says-1100976609.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230912/they-dont-want-to-die-pointless-death-why-ukrainian-troops-increasingly-surrender-1113318870.html

russia

ukraine

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

2023

Ekaterina Blinova

Ekaterina Blinova

News

en_EN

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

1920 1080 true

1920 1440 true

1920 1920 true

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

Ekaterina Blinova

sarah ashton-cirillo, ukrainian military, ukrainian armed forces speaker, margarita simonyan, death threats to russian journalists, mirotvorets website, myrotvorets website, ukrainian neo-nazi, azov battalion, mirotvorets kill list, persecution of journalists in ukraine, freedom of speech, freedom of press, death threats, ukraine terrorist attacks, darya dugina
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/ukrainian-military-casualties-amount-to-440-soldiers-in-donetsk-zaporozhye-areas-1113370959.html

Ukrainian Military Casualties Amount to 440 Soldiers in Donetsk, Zaporozhye Areas

Ukrainian Military Casualties Amount to 440 Soldiers in Donetsk, Zaporozhye Areas

The Ukrainian forces have lost approximately 440 soldiers in the Donetsk and Zaporozhye directions in the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said, adding that the Russian forces have repelled 11 attacks in these areas.

2023-09-14T13:18+0000

2023-09-14T13:18+0000

2023-09-14T13:18+0000

russia's special operation in ukraine

donetsk

zaporozhye

russia

ukrainian crisis

ukrainian conflict

ukrainian counteroffensive attempt

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/08/06/1112416720_0:0:3128:1761_1920x0_80_0_0_24d13eed2b8bedde5e787b40e358909b.jpg

Enemy losses [in the Donetsk direction] per day amounted to up to 350 Ukrainian military personnel killed and wounded, three armored combat vehicles, five vehicles, three M777 artillery systems and a US-made M109 howitzer, as well as one D-30 gun, the ministry said, adding that eight attacks have been repelled in the Donetsk direction. The Russian military also repelled three attacks in the Zaporozhye direction near the Verbovoye settlement, where Kiev lost up to 95 troops and one tank, the ministry said. The ministry also said that another attack has been repelled in the Kharkov Region [the Kupyansk direction], where Kiev lost up to 130 soldiers.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230905/ukraine-fails-to-achieve-its-goals-in-three-months-of-counteroffensive--shoigu-1113129812.html

donetsk

zaporozhye

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

russia special military operation, ukrainian crisis, failed counteroffensive, ukrainian counteroffensive, us weapons, nato equipment, nato-supplied military equipment, us arms for ukraine, foiled counteroffensive, counteroffensive attempt, thwarted counteroffensive, counteroffensive effort, nato arms for ukraine, nato support for ukraine, europe for ukraine, kupyansk direction, donetsk direction, zaporozhye direction, verbovoye
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/watch-russian-ships-fire-missiles-amid-arctic-drills-1113365188.html

Watch Russian Ships Fire Missiles Amid Arctic Drills

Watch Russian Ships Fire Missiles Amid Arctic Drills

Northern Fleet was established in 1733 to protect Russias Arctic borders and sea routes. The fleet started of as small squadron but soon evolved into formidable flotilla.

2023-09-14T10:23+0000

2023-09-14T10:23+0000

2023-09-14T10:23+0000

military

russian northern fleet

ministry of defense

arctic

russia

nato

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/09/0e/1113361211_25:0:1646:912_1920x0_80_0_0_2bd02d112edd191b6ab62e1d89b7b122.png

The Russian Defense Ministry released footage showing Northern Fleet ships firing projectiles as part of Arctic drills. The crews practiced using artillery and cruise missiles, as well as anti-submarine weapons. Special emphasis was placed on eliminating terrorist threats.In Spring 2023 Russia adopted a new Foreign Policy Concept that stressed the importance of Arctic region and cautioned against its militarization. Despite this, Russian officials emphasize that NATO has significantly increased the frequency of military exercises in the northern waters. Therefore, Moscow is determined to take all necessary measures to safeguard national interests and enhance its defense capabilities in the Arctic region.

arctic

russia

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

2023

Sergey Lebedev

Sergey Lebedev

News

en_EN

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

Russian Northern Fleet's Arctic exercises Russian Northern Fleet's Arctic exercises 2023-09-14T10:23+0000 true PT1M57S

1920 1080 true

1920 1440 true

1920 1920 true

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

Sergey Lebedev

northern fleet, russian northern fleet, arctic drills
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230914/why-is-musk-ceding-ukraine-starlink-access-to-the-pentagon-1113373412.html

Why is Musk Ceding Ukraine Starlink Access to the Pentagon?

Why is Musk Ceding Ukraine Starlink Access to the Pentagon?

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has opted to pass the access over to the Department of Defense, as per his biographer Walter Isaacson. What's behind the move?

2023-09-14T15:21+0000

2023-09-14T15:21+0000

2023-09-14T15:21+0000

us

world

elon musk

joe biden

ukraine

russia

crimea

pentagon

us department of defense (dod)

nato

/html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content

https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/0b/09/1103947517_0:164:3059:1884_1920x0_80_0_0_d1951eaf1ea1befa0c3160d8b46fa696.jpg

Elon Musk's biographer Walter Isaacson told the Washington Post on September 13 that the billionaire has agreed to "sell and give total control of a certain amount of Starlink equipment" to the US Department of Defense, thus freeing himself from controls with regard to the geo-fencing and the terms of use in the Ukraine conflict zone.When Did Musk Start Providing Starlink Services to Ukraine?Musk began providing Starlink services to Ukraine after the beginning of Russia's special military operation to demilitarize and de-Nazify the Eastern European state. Hours before the launch of the special op, Russia reportedly suppressed satellite services over the country.Top Ukrainian officials appealed to Musk and within a few days, the South Africa-born US billionaire sent the Kiev regime hundreds of Starlink terminals. Given that electricity was shut down in some areas of Ukraine, Musk shipped some field solar and battery kits to the Ukrainian military also.Per Isaacson, by July 2022, there were 15,000 Starlink terminals operating in the Eastern European country. The biographer noted that Starlink contributed about half of the cost of the dishes and services it provided, i.e. around $80 million. Other funding came from foreign governments, including the US, the UK, Poland and the Czech Republic.What is the Starlink System?Starlink is a satellite internet constellation operated by Musk's aerospace company SpaceX. Thousands of SpaceX spacecraft are orbiting the planet at about 550 km (342 mi), providing broadband internet services, and ensuring telecom connectivity for dozens of countries. However, the company's ultimate aid is to cover the entire globe. Presently, SpaceXs global network has over 4,000 satellites.Why Was Musk at Odds With the Ukrainian Military?In September 2022, the US billionaire called Isaacson and expressed concerns about "a non-trivial possibility" of the Ukraine conflict spiraling into a nuclear war between Russia and NATO "with Starlink partly responsible."The crux of the matter was that the Ukrainian military used Starlink terminals to launch drone attacks against the Russian forces. They also planned to use them to attack Crimea  the peninsula that was "gifted" to Ukraine by Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev in February 1954, and that almost unanimously voted to re-unify with Russia in March 2014 following the February 2014 coup d'etat in Kiev. Crimea's Sevastopol has long been a home to Russia's Black Sea Fleet.Per Isaacson, Musk discussed the matter with US administration officials, explaining to them that he did not want Starlink to be used for offensive purposes. How Musk Disrupted Ukrainian Sabotage Attack on CrimeaThe SpaceX CEO even refused to "turn on" Starlink over Crimea in 2022, which disrupted a Ukrainian sabotage drone attack targeting the peninsula."So basically, Ukraine - they didn't give us any advance warning or heads-up or anything, we just got the urgent calls from the Ukrainian government saying that we needed to 'turn on Crimea' - it was like in the middle of the night, basically. We were like: 'what are you talking about?' And then we figured out this was a kind of Pearl Harbor-type attack on the Russian fleet in Sevastopol. So they were really asking us to really actively take part in a major act of war," he said.According to his biographer, Musk sought to end the Ukrainian conflict and even came up with his own peace plan in early October 2022, which envisaged new referendums in Donbass and other Russian-controlled regions, accepting that Crimea was a part of Russia and assuring that Ukraine would never join NATO and remain neutral. Ukrainian officials responded with slurs and insults to Musk's plan.Musk Refused to Provide Starlink Services to Ukraine for Free, Then Made U-TurnIn September 2022, Musk warned the Pentagon that SpaceX may stop funding the Starlink service in Ukraine unless the US DoD forked out too. The US press quoted the company's letter saying the Pentagon had to step in and start funding Ukraines government and military use of Starlink, which would cost more than $120 million for the rest of 2022 and close to $400 million in 2023. Ukraine's use of Starlink reportedly cost SpaceX over $100 million in 2022.CNN published the story in mid-October after the letter was allegedly leaked by a Pentagon official to the media. The report prompted a storm of criticism from Western and Ukrainian netizens.Per Isaacson, SpaceX President and Chief Operating Officer Gwynne Shotwell was upset with Musk's decision: "The Pentagon had a $145 million check ready to hand to me, literally. Then Elon succumbed to the bullshit on Twitter and to the haters at the Pentagon who leaked the story," she said, as quoted by Musk's biographer.SpaceX Concerned Starlink Was Used for Offensive ActionsMeanwhile, SpaceX continued to cite concerns over the Ukrainian military instrumentalizing Starlink for combat purposes and sabotage attacks.In February 2023, the US media reported that SpaceX had taken measures to limit Ukraine's use of the company's Starlink in its conflict with Russia. SpaceX highlighted that it didn't want the Ukrainian Armed Forces using the service to operate its battlefield drones, which are dropping bombs and conducting other military missions.She quoted news reports saying that Ukrainians "were using our technology on drones.Shotwell made clear that "there are things that we can do to limit" the Ukrainian military's ability to conduct offensive operations with the use of Starlink. "There are things that we can do, and have done," she added.When Did Pentagon Start to Buy Starlink Services for Ukraine?On June 1, the Pentagon announced that it had agreed to purchase Starlink satellite internet terminals from SpaceX for use in the Ukrainian conflict zone."We continue to work with a range of global partners to ensure Ukraine has the satellite and communication capabilities they need. Satellite communications constitute a vital layer in Ukraines overall communications network and the department contracts with Starlink for services of this type," the Pentagon official statement read."For operational security reasons and due to the critical nature of these systems  we do not have additional information regarding specific capabilities, contracts or partners to provide at this time," the statement specified.Is Team Biden and Pentagon Twisting Musk's Arm?Musk has a long record of cooperating with the Pentagon. In particular, Musks SpaceX was certified to launch rockets for the US governments military space program in 2015. In 2020, SpaceX won a multibillion-dollar contract that made it one of the Pentagon's "two primary satellite-launch providers through most of the decade." It was reported that SpaceX would take part in an estimated three dozen launches through 2027 along with United Launch Alliance (ULA), a joint venture between Boeing Co. and Lockheed Martin Corp.The US media noted at the time that even though Musk's SpaceX remains one of the Pentagon's key defense contractors, the Biden administration became discontented with the billionaire's dissent last year. Thus, in November 2022, Biden said Musk's relationships with other countries were "worth looking into." Furthermore, Team Biden reportedly discussed whether Washington should subject some of Musks ventures to "national security reviews", according to the US media in 2022.One might easily assume that Musk came under a great deal of pressure over his inability to provide Starlink services for Ukraine's offensive missions, especially given Team Biden's bravado over the much-anticipated Ukraine counteroffensive. Washington shrugged off all moral concerns over sending cluster munitions to the Kiev regime, even though the latter is using the ammo against civilians. Speaking to Sputnik, CIA veteran Larry Johnson suggested that the Biden administration and the Pentagon are providing Ukraine with data to launch attacks on Russian infrastructure assets and civilian objects.Even after the Kiev regime's three-month-long failing counteroffensive, the Biden administration continued to double down on sending arms and shells to Ukraine. Washington is due to supply the Ukrainian military with more cluster shells and with depleted uranium munitions (which previously were reported to be responsible for the spike in cancer cases and birth defects).Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist Seymour Hersh warned in his recent article on Substack that Team Biden is heading to nothing short of a nuclear conflict with Russia, relying on distorted and overly optimistic intelligence on Ukraine.Some Russian observers believe that Musk is seeing that his devices and services are due to be abused by the Pentagon-backed Ukrainian military regardless of his vocal protests, which may place him in the crosshairs of the Biden administration's "justice machine". Ultimately, Musk doesn't want to be responsible for potential havoc, hence his alleged decision to cede control of Starlink in Ukraine to the Pentagon, they concluded.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230911/musk-dismisses-treason-accusations-for-declining-to-activate-starlink-near-crimea-1113288426.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230731/could-russian-electronic-warfare-systems-mute-ukrainian-starlink-1112306615.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230801/russia-repulses-ukrainian-drone-boat-attacks-targeting-black-sea-fleet-warships-1112312823.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/musk-ukraine-demanded-spacex-violate-us-sanctions-to-aid-crimea-drone-attack-1113352411.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230909/musk-us-military-vulnerability-due-to-slow-production-rates-as-seen-in-ukraine-1113224062.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230718/elon-musk-says-wants-publicly-available-overview-of-how-ukraine-spends-us-aid-money-1111972549.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230722/us-crossing-moral-red-lines-by-supplying-kiev-with-cluster-munitions-1112062761.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230913/sy-hersh-overly-optimistic-us-intel-reports-on-ukraine-to-lead-to-disaster-1113350730.html

ukraine

russia

crimea

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

2023

Ekaterina Blinova

Ekaterina Blinova

News

en_EN

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

1920 1080 true

1920 1440 true

1920 1920 true

Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60

Ekaterina Blinova

elon musk, spacex, starlink, pentagon, ukraine, war in ukraine, ukraine conflict, ukrainians used starlink for drone attacks, ukrainian drones starlink, weaponization of starlink, pentagon contracts musk, musk spacex satellite launch, starlink satellite constellation, russian electronic warfare systems, ukraine war map, ukraine war news
Eight $55,000 divisions went postward in the $440,000 New York Sire Stakes Excelsior finals that were held at Batavia Downs on Wednesday night (Sept. 13) and several streaking horses were victorious again and had the support of the betting public.

The two-year-old trotting filly Dozen (Chapter Seven-Sequin) drafted third for Tyler Buter behind the entry of Barn Dreamer (Jason Bartlett) and Barn CJ (Kevin Cummings) from the start to three-quarters where Buter tipped her and trotted towards the front. At the top of the stretch, Dozen was in full flight and bolted home to a 3-1/4 length win in 1:58.2.

It was the fifth straight win for Dozen ($2.80), who is owned and bred by Diamond Creek Racing and trained by Marcus Melander.

Then the two-year-old pacing colt Pop It (Huntsville-Pop The Tags) left hard from post one for Mark Macdonald and led the entire race. While leading by 1-1/2 lengths, Pop It cut quarters of :28.1, :58.1 and 1:27.4 before turning for home and holding off the pocket-sitting Spectacular Plus (Jason Bartlett) to win by one-half length in 1:56.

It was the fourth straight win for Pop It ($2.70), who is owned by Schnittker Arnold, Country Club Acres, Joe Sbrocco and Ted Gewertz. Ray Schnittker trains Pop It, who was bred by Kathryn Weed and Kenneth Weed.

From the sophomore class, three-year-old pacing filly Rec Time (Huntsville-Ms Malicious) and Jason Bartlett left for position from post five and dropped in second behind Light And Tight (Jordan Stratton), then and followed that one for seven-eighths of the mile while Sweet Cheyenne (Marcus Miller) applied pressure to the leader from the outside. At the top of the stretch, the passing lane opened and Rec Time paced away down the lane to a two-length win in 1:55.1, with a sharp :27.3 final panel.

Rec Time ($3.90), who set Batavia Downs track record for three-year-old pacing fillies earlier this year, won her sixth race in only eight 2023 outings for owners D Racing Stable and Jason O'Sullivan. Deborah Daguet trains the filly bred by Fair Winds Farm, Mark Mullen and Steve Jones.

And then three-year-old trotting filly Serendipity (Chapter Seven-Vida De Vie) got away fourth for Marcus Miller while Five Fish Species (Mark MacDonald) led the field. Woolco (Jim Morrill Jr.) pulled first-over at the half and Miller followed with Serendipity. Halfway through the last turn, Serendipity went three-wide and then under a line drive, pulled away to a 1-3/4 length victory in 1:57.1.

It was the ninth win of the year for Serendipity ($6), who is trained by George Ducharme and owned by W. Donovan, Jim Winske, Stephen Michaels and Joe Sbrocco. Serendipity was bred by Joie De Vie Farm.

Jason Barltett won three Excelsior finals while Tyler Buter won two.

The rest of the stakes winners are listed below:

Two-year-old pacing fillies

Ideal Skies (American Ideal-No Clouds Bluechip)

Driver  Alek Chartrand

Owner  United Process Control Co.

Trainer  Alek Chartrand

Breeder  Barbara Berger, Richard Carney, Farrell Carney

Time  1:56.4

Mutuel  $6.40

Two-year-old trotting colts and geldings

Sir Pinocchio (Mets Hall-Lady Cromwell)

Driver  Jason Bartlett

Owner  Carolyn Atherton

Trainer  Ed Hart

Breeder  Carolyn Atherton

Time  1:59

Mutuel  $21.40

Three-year-old pacing colts and geldings

Boston Bound (Boston Red Rocks-Ashleyswayrhighway)

Driver  Jim Morrill Jr.

Owner  Rick Berks, Peter Blood

Trainer  Mike Deters

Breeder  Winbak Farms

Time  1:55.3

Mutuel  $6.60

Three-year-old trotting colts and geldings

Seven Sins (Chapter Seven-Isolde)

Driver  Tyler Buter

Owner  Pollack Racing

Trainer  Jeff Cullipher

Breeder  Crawford Farms

Time  1:57.3

Mutuel  $7.40

Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Friday, Sept. 15 at 6 p.m. and there will be a $2,142 carryover in the Jackpot Hi-5 pentafecta wager in the race 13.

(With files from Batavia Downs)
Members of the New York State Senate and Assembly raced for power positions and bragging rights at Yonkers Raceway during the 2023 Legislative Pace hosted by Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts on Tuesday, Sept. 12.

Dubbed the Hottest Political Race of the Year, the event consisted of four, before-the-card non-wagering harness races featuring New York State legislators competing in double-seated jog carts alongside professional harness racing drivers. Each race consisted of two laps around the famed half-mile Yonkers Raceway oval.

The annual event brought together bi-partisan legislators from across the state to the historic Yonkers Raceway, which was founded in 1899 and is now part of Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts. Empire City boasts the sixth largest gaming floor in the country and welcomes over nine million guests annually.

The stacked lineup of legislators for the 2023 Legislative Pace included some return participants and repeat winners. Participants included Assembly Members Nader Sayegh (D-Westchester), J.Gary Pretlow (D-Westchester), Joe DeStefano (R-Suffolk), Karl Brabenec (R-Orange/Rockland), Brian Cunningham (D-Brooklyn), Scott Bendett (R-Columbia/Rensselaer/Washington), Stefani Zinerman (D-Brooklyn), Ken Zebroski (D-Rockland), Latrice Walker (D-Brooklyn), Erik Dilan (D-Brooklyn), Dana Levenberg (D-Westchester/Putnam), and Kenny Burgos (D-Bronx) and New York State Senator Dean Murray (R-Suffolk) .

Every year we look forward to this friendly, albeit competitive, event and we are thrilled to host the Legislative Pace at the historic Yonkers Raceway once again, said Ed Domingo, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts.

The first race of the night went to Assembly Member Karl Brabenec (R-Orange/Rockland) with his horse Best Bettor, who took the win over recurring champion Assembly Racing and Wagering Committee Chairman J.Gary Pretlow (D-Westchester) and neighbouring Rockland Assembly Member Ken Zebroski (D-Rockland).

In the second race, the Bronx took home a victory with Assembly Member Kenny Burgos (D-Bronx) outracing Assembly Members Latrice Walker (D-Brooklyn), Dana Levenberg (D-Westchester/Putnam), and 2021 Legislative Pace winner Nader Sayegh (D-Westchester).

The third race gave both J.Gary Pretlow (D-Westchester) and Ken Zebroski (D-Rockland) a second chance at a win, as they raced for the second time of the night. They faced Senator Dean Murray (R-Suffolk) and Assembly Member Joe DeStefano (R-Suffolk). DeStefano repeated his 2021 victory and crossed the finish line first with his horse, Hes Gonna Getya.

The final race of the night put Brooklyn on display with Assembly Members Stefani Zinerman (D-Brooklyn), Erik Dilan (D-Brooklyn), and Brian Cunningham (D-Brooklyn) going head-to-head against their Assembly colleague Scott Bendett (R-Columbia/Rensselaer/Washington). Bendett said Fuhgeddaboudit to his Brooklyn colleagues while driving Editor Choice and came out on top with a win.

In the 2022 Legislative Pace, the first win of the night went to Senator Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Queens). In the second race, Senator Jamaal Bailey (D-Bronx) took first place, and the third heat had repeat Legislative Pace winner Assembly Racing and Gaming Chair J.Gary Pretlow (D-Westchester) defending his title for the seventh time. The final race of the night was won by Senator Shelley Mayer (D-Westchester).

Live racing continues at Yonkers Raceway nightly Monday, Tuesday and Thursday through Saturday with a first-race post time of 7 p.m.

(Empire City Casino)

Photo (L to R): Assembly Members Latrice Walker, Nade Sayegh, Stefani Zinerman, Dana Levenberg, Joe DeStefano, Ken Zebrowski, Eddie Gibbs, J. Gary Pretlow, Scott Bendett, Senator Dean Murray, Assembly Member Brian Cunningham, and Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts Senior Vice President and General Manager Ed Domingo.


Its quite the scene.

Every day after harness trainer Scott McGinn finishes work, he goes home to Stony Plain, Alta. and jogs his one-horse stable star, G TS Skyla, around a six-foot wide path that surrounds a neighbours barley field. About a third of a mile in circumference, the makeshift track is harrowed to keep it soft and fluffy.

Our farm used to be outside of Stony Plain all by itself. But houses have grown up around it and people always smile and wave to me as Im jogging 'Skyla' and going past them, said McGinn. Its pretty cool. Different but pretty cool. The track is just black dirt but it does the job.

A winner of nine of her 12 starts and six in a row, G Ts Skyla is looking more impressive every time she races. The unique training regimen is obviously working.

Its pretty amazing, said G Ts Skylas driver Logan Gillis. I always wonder how they keep her in such good shape. I guess thats how.

When McGinn wants a fast mile out of G Ts Skyla, he sends her to Jean Francois Gagnes farm just outside of Wetaskiwin where Gagne has a half-mile track.

A three-year-old filly, G Ts Skylas last race was on Aug. 12 at Century Downs in the $101,770 Gord and Illa Rumpel Memorial Stakes, which she won by 4-1/4 lengths in a lifetime mark of 1:53.2 despite being headed at the three-quarter pole by Side Piece.

Gillis, however, wasnt worried.

I didnt ask her for any speed at that point. I knew I had lots left. Shes got another gear when you ask her to go.

Shes something special. Definitely something very special, said Gillis.

McGinn thinks so too.

Shes phenomenal. She gets better every time she comes to the track.

With no classes to race in except the Open Mares division, GTs Skyla sat idle after the Rumpel victory to this past Sunday when McGinn qualified GTs Skyla at Lacombes Track On 2.

It was her first appearance in a month on a track other than her romps around the barley field and his trips to Gagnes farm. But youd never know it. She won the qualifier in 1:55.4 with a scintillating last quarter in :27.1.

And I never even asked her, said Gillis. Plus there was a strong head wind. Off a month and she was as good as the day she raced in the Rumpel. Absolutely just as good. It was pretty impressive.

Theyve done a great job of keeping her happy. And she looks great too. She looks like a really good horse is supposed to look.

Shes very big and very strong, added McGinn. And she can carry her speed a long way. She doesnt tire out. Shes determined to win. Just like she showed in the Rumpel. A horse gets beside her and she digs in. She even does that on the farm. She loves to chase the other horses around. Its fun to watch.

The Rumpel certainly wasnt the only stakes G Ts Skyla has won.

She also took the $56,600 Alberta Sires Stakes Marquis final on July 22 at Century Downs.

Logan sat fifth that day, said McGinn. He pulled going into the second turn and had to go three-wide when the horse in front of him stalled out. But she won that one too.

G Ts Skyla also took the stakes previous to the Marquis, the $90,000 final of the Shirley McClellan Breeders Stakes, despite finishing with broken equipment.

She dropped a knee boot coming around the far turn, said McGinn. But it didnt slow her down. Logan kept her steady and she wore down the pacesetter, Caviar N Crackers, to win by a length.

As a two-year-old, G Ts Skyla won two stakes. The first, an Alberta Sires Stakes Starlet division last September, was her career debut. Sent away as the heavy 3-5 favourite, she won that by more than 10 lengths and then took a division of the Brad Gunn Memorial the following week.

The only time G Ts Skyla hasnt finished first or second was in last years Super Finals when she was parked outside the entire mile.

She pretty well drives herself, said Gillis, who took over the driving this spring from Brandon Campbell as he had a top three-year-old filly himself. She does it on her own.

G Ts Skylas only loss this year was on June 9 at Century Downs.

She was sick for a month, said McGinn. That was when heavy smoke rolled in and it seemed like half the backstretch got a virus.

I had to get a start into her before the McClellan Stakes so I raced her in a condition pace. She hadnt raced in over a month but she still only got beat by six inches. She had to go first-up on a horse that got away with a slow half. I didnt know what to expect because she had been off for so long. I thought she raced great considering the circumstances.

G Ts Skyla isnt racing this weekend at Edmontons Century Mile. Instead shes being pointed to the Alberta Princess elimination leg on Sept. 23 and then the $50,000 final on Sept. 30.

After that, G Ts Skyla will get ready to contest the $75,000 Filly Pace on Oct. 21, which is the same day as the Western Canada Pacing Derby. Then it will be the Nov. 4 Super Finals.

Shes got quite the personality, said McGinn. Shes very curious. Shes always sticking her head into places she doesnt belong.

"Shes also very well mannered. Shes a pleasure to be around.

The McGinns knew they had something special almost from day one.

G Ts Skyla qualified last year on Aug. 27. She finished first by more than eight lengths and then, as mentioned, easily won her career debut two weeks later.

She showed a lot of potential as a two-year-old, said McGinn. Ever since then, shes been a rock star.

Its been a true family story.

McGinn owns G Ts Skyla with his father, Terry, and grandfather and grandmother, Gerald and Marjorie McGinn, who are also the horses breeder. G Ts Skyla is a daughter of Mystician, who took a mark of 1:49.2 and won just under $2 million, and out of the As Promised mare, G Ts Selene, an Alberta Super Final champion who the family also owned and bred.

The McGinns also owned G Ts Selenes dam Enola Gay Mindale, a mare Gerald bought at a mixed sale.

G Ts Skyla is a third generation horse for us. So thats pretty cool too, said McGinn.

Now 87, Gerald was the one who got the McGinns into harness racing.

Gerald started it, said McGinn, 28. He started up the family business, a water well business -- Gerald McGinn Drilling -- just outside of Stony Plain that drills wells and then services them for acreages and farms in 1967. He grew up on a farm and has been around horses all of his life.

Gerald owned Standardbreds in the mid-1980s and one day, in 1998, he just decided to try training them himself. He just took a chance and it worked out well.

He was very successful and had quite a few stakes horses, McGinn said of his grandfather, who won 165 races as a trainer and whose horses won $1.5 million, including G Ts J J, a winner of 20 races and $308,000, and G Ts Jet, a winner of 19 races and $298,722.

He would take me to the races when I was just a kid after school, on weekends and then we would spend summer vacations in Calgary and Grande Prairie where he raced, said McGinn, who also still works for McGinn Drilling as well as being a trainer. Im going to step away from the drilling company and transition into full-time training full time in a little while. Well see how that goes.

Ive been around the track as long as I can remember, said McGinn, who took out his trainer's license just a few years ago. Ive been in love with horses since I started coming to the track when I was very young. Horses have always been in the plan for me I think. Its a family operation.

"Dad grew up around horses too. Hes been an owner with my grandfather. He never trained horses but he would occasionally get in a jog cart, said McGinn, whose only other horses are a two-year-old that is a little behind in training and a couple of homebred yearlings. G Ts Skyla is the only horse Ive got racing. Shes a one-woman show.

McGinn thinks G Ts Skyla is only going to get better.

Shell like the bigger track at Century Mile. Shes a big horse and has good straight line speed. So a mile track is only going to help her. Shell be able to pick up a lot of speed.

(Curtis Stock/thehorses.com)
KEARNEY  A Kearney man wanted on child abuse charges continues to evade police.

Shortly before 5 p.m. Monday, Buffalo County Sheriff's deputies received a report of a possible sighting of suspect Jacob Ellingson, who is wanted for two counts of felony child abuse. The sighting was in the area of 145th and Riverdale Road.

According to a Sheriff's Department press release, deputies, with help from the Kearney Police Department and Nebraska State Patrol, set up a perimeter and began a search.

The search included drones from the two departments, KPD K-9s, FLIR, thermal imaging cameras, and the Nebraska State Patrol helicopter.

The search continued into the night and was unsuccessful in locating Ellingson, 24.

KPD was alerted at 8:11 a.m. Friday regarding a person traveling to a local hospital in a private vehicle with a 1-year-old girl having difficulty breathing. Law officers located the individuals involved at the hospital.

After examination the girl was flown by helicopter to Children's Hospital in Omaha. KPD reported Monday it worked with doctors, hospital staff, the Buffalo County Attorney's office and others "to determine the nature, severity and cause of the child's injuries."

After consulting with staff at Children's Hospital, KPD determined the cause of the injuries was criminal in nature.

Ellingson is regarded as a fugitive from justice, according to police and sheriff's department sources. He is described as 5-foot-11 and 295 pounds, with blue eyes, a fair complexion and blond hair.
Judge sentences Lincoln man to 60-90 years in prison for sexually abusing girl

A Lincoln man has been sentenced to 60 to 90 years in prison a month after being found guilty at trial of sexually abusing a young girl.

Alvaro Monterroso, 50, will have to serve at least 37 years before hes eligible for parole because of a mandatory minimum sentence.

According to court records, in June 2022 a woman in her 20s came forward about multiple incidents of sexual abuse that had occurred over a six-year period when she was a child.

In a recorded call with law enforcement officers listening in, Monterroso made admissions.

A Lancaster County jury found him guilty at a trial in August.

District Judge Jodi Nelson sentenced him Monday to the prison term. He also will have to register as a sex offender and be subject to a possible civil commitment upon release.

Last of Nebraskans sentenced for plot to start fires at Gulf Coast Walmarts

The last of a group of Nebraskans who conspired to start fires inside Walmart stores on the Gulf Coast in 2021 has been sentenced to 15 years in prison.

United States District Judge Terry F. Moorer also ordered Sean Bottorff to pay nearly $7.3 million in restitution along with his co-defendants.

The only one to get more time for the plot than Bottorff was its leader, Jeffery Sikes, a.k.a. Kenneth Allen, who got 18 years earlier this summer. Hes appealing.

The United States Attorneys office for the Southern District of Alabama said the group deliberately endangered innocent shoppers and destroyed millions of dollars of merchandise when they intentionally and maliciously set fires in four stores in two states.

In the indictment, federal prosecutors said the conspirators initially lived in Kearney, but followed Sikes to Alabama, where he fled after pleading guilty to a wire fraud in Nebraska in 2017.

By 2021, they were calling themselves The Veterans Order and had drafted a manifesto making demands on Walmart related to the companys commercial practices and sent it to media outlets to draw attention to the arson attacks.

First among their list of demands was a pay increase to $18 per hour for all employees, according to Fox 10, a TV station in Mobile, which posted it.

They set fires at Walmarts in Mobile, Alabama, on May 27, 2021, in Tillmans Corner, Alabama, on May 28, and in Gulfport and Biloxi, Mississippi, on June 4.

They then threatened to start more if the company didnt comply with their demands.

A months-long investigation led to their arrests in February 2022, and they later pleaded guilty to conspiracy to set malicious fires.

Bottorffs brother, Michael Bottorff, got four years in prison; brothers Alexander Olson and Quinton Olson got 15 years and three years respectively; Sikes wife, Erica Sikes, and Jenna Bottorff each got four years, and Mikaya Scheele got two years for the parts they played in the crimes.

There is no parole in federal prison.
A runaway juvenile from Stony Point was located with a Virginia man in Tennessee. The man was charged with multiple counts of statutory rape.

Linwood Russell Simms, 24, of Midlothian, Virginia, is charged with two counts of felony statutory rape of a child who is 15 years of age or younger, the Iredell County Sheriffs Office said in a news release.

On Aug. 21, the Iredell County Sheriffs Office received a report of a runaway juvenile in western Iredell County. During the course of the investigation, it was discovered that there was a suspicious vehicle in the neighborhood. The sheriffs office said the male driver was seen speaking with the runaway juvenile a few days before.

Deputies obtained the license plate number of the vehicle. The driver was identified as Simms, the sheriffs office said. An alert was immediately issued to surrounding law enforcement agencies to be on the lookout for the missing juvenile and the vehicle, the sheriffs office said.

Deputies were able to get a cell phone number for Simms. The phone pinged in the area of Lenoir City, Tennessee, the sheriffs office said.

The Iredell County Sheriffs Office contacted the Lenoir City Police Department. Lenoir City police located the juvenile female with Simms, the sheriffs office said.

Lenoir City police arrested Simms for harboring a runaway child. The Iredell County Sheriffs Office said officers learned that Simms possibly had sexual intercourse with the juvenile while still in North Carolina.

Detective Sergeant Patrick Dixson of the Iredell County Sheriffs Office Special Victims Unit was assigned the case for further investigation. Once the juvenile returned home in Iredell County, a forensic interview was conducted by the Dove House Childrens Advocacy Center, the sheriffs office said.

Dixson collected digital evidence and interviewed other witnesses, the sheriffs office said.

Simms is currently in custody in Tennessee under no bond. Simms is awaiting extradition to Iredell County. This case is still under investigation and additional charges may be pending, the sheriffs office said.

Simms is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The check was going to be for more than $17,300, half of all the annual taxes collected from Mountain Empire Airport.

As Smyth County officials prepared to send the check to their peers in Wythe County last month, Charlie Atkins, chair of Smyths board of supervisors, reflected on the Groseclose airports growing importance to area businesses and industries. Noting that some industries use the airport practically daily, Atkins said its amount of use is unbelievable.

Whether theyre flying in a replacement for a broken part or officials who want to visit a local operation, Atkins told his peer on the board, We need to take care of the airport.

Atkins also lauded current Smyth County Commissioner of the Revenue Jeff Richardson for visiting the airport on Jan. 1 and recording all the airplanes and helicopters there to tax their owners.

If the funding can be found, Atkins said, a demand for more hangar space for aircraft exists, which would yield additional tax revenue.

The airport is a joint endeavor of the two counties and the towns of Marion and Wytheville.

Smyth collects the taxes and then sends half to Wythe County.

The four local governments recently divided 20% of the cost of repainting the markings on the airports runways.

A Virginia Department of Aviation inspection found that all our painted surfaces on the runway and taxiway needed to be updated. In a letter to the localities, Brian Burkett, airport manager, said it had been six years since the last paint marking project. Eighty percent of the projects $26,410 cost was paid for by the commonwealth. The four localities each paid $1,320.50.

As of Friday, Burkett told officials, We are 90% complete and should reach 100% in the next few days.

The airport is also in line to receive funds to do the preliminary design and environmental coordination to upgrade its runway lighting system.

At the Virginia Aviation Boards quarterly meeting on Aug. 11, its members approved $5,576 for the project.
From his military coup in 1970 until his death in 2000, Hafez al-Assad failed to appreciate Syria's diverse regions, according to Bassam Youssef for Syria TV.

Deir-ez-Zor has endured significant suffering under the rule of the Baath regime, particularly during the Assad familys leadership. Apart from intentional marginalization, impoverishment, and resource exploitation, Hafez al-Assad perpetrated a grave injustice by eroding the regions values, ethics, and traditions, while elevating those loyal to him and suppressing its male population.

From his military coup in 1970 until his death in 2000, Hafez al-Assad failed to appreciate Syrias diverse regions with a genuine understanding of their diversity and unity. Instead, his approach was based on their proximity to supporting his authority, leading to the subjugation and oppression of certain areas, including Deir-ez-Zor. He systematically sidelined the governorate, hindered its modernization and progress, and crushed its distinct identity.

Deir-ez-Zor had already paid a heavy price in the early 20th century due to its geographic location and the Sykes-Picot Agreement. However, the gravest consequences emerged later, as the leaders of Syria and Iraq under the Baath party grew increasingly power-hungry. Hafez al-Assad did not view Deir ez-Zor as a Syrian city with full rights for its residents but rather as a place whose loyalty to him was suspect due to historical ties to Iraq and its Arab-tribal demographic composition. Saddam Hussein exploited this perception by manipulating inter-clan relationships on both sides of the border.

Hafez al-Assad used intimidation tactics to subdue Deir-ez-Zor, attempting to co-opt its tribal leaders, subjecting them to his security apparatus, and diminishing their authority. His goal was not to strengthen the rule of law and the state but to secure their loyalty to him. Additionally, he involved them in his corrupt economic practices and bolstered the presence of his security forces. These actions hampered citizens ability to shape their own destiny, resulting in Deir-ez-Zors dire state, lacking even basic services despite its abundant resources.

Shortly after the Syrian revolution began, Deir-ez-Zor joined the uprising, hosting a massive demonstration with over 150,000 participants. In response, the regime employed brutal tactics, causing casualties and imposing prolonged sieges on the city. Since then, Deir-ez-Zor has been under the control of a series of increasingly oppressive de facto authorities.

The SDF attributes the recent conflict in Deir-ez-Zor to various factors, but these explanations are mostly peripheral or inaccurate. The core issue lies in the SDFs disregard for the regions population and its national significance. It fails to recognize the peoples right to self-governance.

Ignoring the realities on the ground will only exacerbate conflict. Resorting to violence to establish control will further deepen divisions between parties. The SDF and other de facto forces must acknowledge the prevailing circumstances and respect the peoples rights. History does not validate the use of brute force, even with external support.

Deir-ez-Zor, the province resting along the Euphrates, remains under the oppressive rule of de facto forces. These entities lack an understanding of the regions culture and the soothing influence of the river on its peoples lives. Such injustice cannot persist in this corner of Syrian geography for long, as it is bound to awaken from its slumber.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
Deportation campaigns target even those with valid legal documentation, according to Baladi News.

The National Coalition for Revolutionary and Opposition Forces has raised concerns about the treatment of Syrian refugees by various governments within their territories. Notably, they have criticized the ongoing deportation of Syrian refugees from Turkey, which occurs almost daily.

Salim Idris, the coordinator of the coalitions Office of Refugee Affairs, presented a comprehensive report on their activities over the past two months. This report covered the plight of Syrian refugees in several countries, including Iraq, Lebanon, Turkey, and others. Idris provided updates on refugee issues in these nations and monitored the well-being of refugees, as detailed on the coalitions official website.

Within this report, Idris highlighted the recent actions of the Iraqi government, which has been deporting Syrian refugees and handing them over to the Assad regime. He also expressed concern about Iraqs failure to adhere to international laws regarding refugee protection.

Idris also sheds light on the mistreatment suffered by individuals fleeing life-threatening situations in Greece, including Syrian asylum seekers. The report documented cases involving 70 people, including 32 children, 10 women, and 26 men. It emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and criticized the lack of support provided by international organizations in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. There are growing fears that these organizations may shirk their responsibilities towards refugees after more than twelve years of crisis.

However, its worth noting that the report did not address the abuses experienced by Syrian refugees in Turkey or the ongoing deportation campaigns targeting even those with valid legal documentation. Recent months have witnessed an alarming number of deportations from Turkey, primarily from Istanbul, despite the affected individuals holding temporary protection cards and asserting their mandatory right to remain.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
Mekdad emphasized Syria's unwavering commitment to facilitating the return of refugees in a conversation with the Lebanese FM, according to Tishreen.

Syria extends a warm welcome to the return of its refugees, yet the hindrance to this process remains the repercussions of the Turkish and US occupation of certain parts of the country, emphasized Foreign and Expatriates Minister Faisal al-Mekdad.

Minister Mekdad conveyed this sentiment during a telephone conversation with his Lebanese counterpart, Abdallah Bou Habib, on Wednesday.

Mekdad emphasized Syrias unwavering commitment to facilitating the return of refugees, but he noted that the mentioned occupations, the exploitation of Syrian territorys resources, and the sanctions imposed on the country all pose significant obstacles to achieving this goal.

Lebanese counterpart Bou Habib indicated his forthcoming visit to Syria, leading a delegation to discuss refugee-related matters, demonstrating Lebanons strong desire for full cooperation and coordination with Syria.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
Ankara-backed factions express concerns about Julani's increasing control over economic assets and smuggling routes, according to Athr Press.

Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) leader Abu Muhammad al-Julani has significantly escalated his campaign of arresting fellow members and leaders of HTS in the northwestern regions of Syria under his control.

The recent wave of arrests has targeted high-ranking individuals within the groups security apparatus. They face charges related to allegedly plotting a coup against Julani. In the past three days alone, approximately 50 leaders have been apprehended, including one individual responsible for manufacturing explosives, as reported by opposition media outlets.

Reports suggest that since the inception of this campaign in early July, around 450 individuals have been detained. Some have been released following mediation efforts, but there are unverified reports circulating about the execution of certain detainees, with ongoing arrests still taking place.

Various factors suggest the likelihood of an attempted coup against Julani. These include his unpredictable stances and frequent abandonment of allies to consolidate his control over territories where his group operates. Julani has also been keen on expanding his sphere of influence into the northern countryside of Aleppo.

Ankara-backed factions express concerns about Julanis increasing control over economic assets and smuggling routes, which yield significant wealth. There are apprehensions that he may use this wealth to attract new allies who can facilitate his expansion into the Aleppo countryside. These factions fear that Julani might tighten his grip on several key smuggling routes, particularly those bordering the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), potentially making his group the primary player in the northern Syrian fuel market.

These arrests coincide with several notable moves by Julani. One of the latest developments was his visit to the Jabal al-Summaq area, where he held a meeting with prominent Druze figures, expressing his support for Suweida protests. Additionally, Julani has engaged in meetings with US intelligence officials in early August 2023.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
The Russian initiatives aimed to prevent the SDF, backed by the United States, from exploiting tensions, according to Syria TV.

Syrian regime forces have taken decisive action in the Hassakeh governorate, isolating the commander of the National Defense militia and assuming control of the entire militia headquarters in the region.

Reports indicate that, under Russian pressure, a security committee was dispatched from Damascus last week to investigate the recent tensions in Hasakeh involving the Jabour tribe and the National Defense Militias commander, Abdul Qader Hamo.

The committees findings led to the isolation of Hamo, placing him under house arrest. Additionally, a restructuring plan for the National Defense militia was introduced, aiming to diminish its influence in the Hassakeh governorate. The militia is now directly affiliated with regime forces and operates under the supervision of its military commander, Major General Munther Saad Ibrahim.

Colonel Samir Ismail has been appointed to lead the National Defense militia in the Hassakeh governorate, following his previous role in charge of the same militia in Qamishli. The committee continues to explore further actions against Hamo.

Earlier, the regimes governor of Hassakeh, Louay Sayouh, had announced Hamos dismissal, with Youssef Hammad rumoured as his successor. However, sources reported that Hamo remained in office, even appearing in a video alongside his son and a companion, surrounded by armed supporters and vehicles.

Hamos threat to turn the region into a military confrontation zone in response to regime escalation led many of his supporters to defect and surrender to the regimes security services, fearing repercussions.

The decision to send the security committee from Damascus was made under pressure from Russia, which sought to improve security in regime-controlled areas of eastern Syria while diminishing the influence of Iranian militias.

Earlier in August, Russian forces convened a closed meeting with military and police commanders, along with the governor of Hassakeh, to address differences and tensions with the Jabour tribe. Later in the month, a Russian military delegation visited Sheikh Abdul Aziz al-Meslet, a prominent Jabour tribe leader in Hasakeh, following an attack by the National Defense militia commander. The delegation promised to convey the tribes demands to Damascus.

These Russian initiatives aimed to prevent the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), backed by the United States, from exploiting tensions between the Jabour tribe and the National Defense militia to escalate the situation and expand their control in Hassakeh.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
Multnomah County Sheriffs deputies arrested a 44-year-old Portland man suspected of breaking into Portland Fire & Rescues boathouse in Southeast Portland early Thursday, stealing a rescue boat and speeding the vessel to Kalama, about 43 miles northwest of where the boat went missing, officials said.

Dustin Jay Knutson was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on allegations of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, second-degree criminal trespass and first-degree criminal mischief, said sheriffs office spokesperson Deputy John Plock.

Someone called Portland Fire & Rescue around 6 a.m. after one of their two water vessels, a rescue boat, was spotted speeding through a marina in a no-wake zone without its lights on, said fire spokesperson Rick Graves.

Fire officials checked their boathouse on the east side of the Willamette River, near Southeast Madison Street and the Eastbank Esplanade, and discovered the vessel was missing, Graves said.

Portland Fire & Rescue tracked the boats movements using its GPS device and located it in Kalama. Members of the U.S. Coast Guard stopped the boat and took Knutson into custody, officials said.

Fire mechanics replaced the boats damaged propellers and are driving it back to Portland, Graves said.

Surveillance camera footage at the boathouse showed a person swimming around the boathouses locked gate shortly before the rescue boat was spotted. Graves suspects Knutson swam under the bay doors, figured out how to open them and drove the boat away.

The boathouse stores a larger, more powerful firefighting boat and the rescue boat, Graves said.

My guess is they couldnt figure out how to start the advanced vessel, so they tried and figured out the mechanism to start the rescue boat and got it going, Graves said.

Knutson pleaded not guilty June 9, 2022, in Multnomah County Circuit Court to charges of resisting arrest, two counts of recklessly endangering another person and fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer.

Knutson allegedly sped away after a Port of Portland police officer attempted to stop him on a Multnomah County highway March 3, 2022, court records show. His driving allegedly posed substantial risk of serious physical injury. He resisted when the officer tried arresting him, according to court records.

Knutson was released from jail June 7, 2022. Multnomah County Circuit Judge Shelley D. Russell issued a warrant for his arrest after he failed to appear for a court hearing the next day. Russell filed another warrant in April 2023 ordering officers to cite Knutson in lieu of arresting him.

A Multnomah County sheriffs deputy cited Knutson June 23, 2023 in Northwest Portland, court records show.
Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced Tuesday the state has filed a consumer protection lawsuit against a Kelso gun shop for allegedly breaking a 2022 state law by selling high-capacity magazines to the general public.

The lawsuit alleges that gun store Gators Custom Guns, located at 301 North 1st St. in Kelso, plus its owner Walter, or Wally, Wentz, has been selling high-capacity magazines after the distribution, sale, importation and manufacture of such equipment was banned in the state in July 2022.

Wentzs son Benjamin Wentz told The Daily News they didnt know about the lawsuit until Tuesday, but declined to talk further.

The Attorney Generals Office asks that Gators Custom Guns destroy or return any remaining inventory of the prohibited items, and no longer stock, sell or advertise high-capacity magazines, describing the store as among the states largest and most persistent purchasers of high-capacity magazines from out-of-state distributors.

Walter Wentz could face a fine of at least $7,500 for every time the shop sold or offered to sell high-capacity magazines, as determined by a judge, said Communications Director Brionna Aho for the Washington State Attorney General Office.

Investigation

Gators Custom Guns is the second lawsuit brought forth by the Washington Attorney Generals Office in regard to illegal sales of large capacity magazines, with the capability to contain more than 10 rounds of ammo, according to a department press release.

As mentioned in the lawsuit, the Attorney Generals office conducted a sweep of drop-in visits by investigators in August of 2022 of brick-and-mortar shops across the state. Investigators attempted to buy large capacity magazines at 25 stores, but only two retailers sold or offered to sell the prohibited item.

The Attorney Generals Office then conducted a second round of drop-ins in March and May, visiting nearly 90 gun stores, with a vast majority of gun retailers adhering to the law. However, at Gators Custom Guns, the suit says the shop openly displayed hundreds of (large capacity magazines) for public sale in their retail store.

In May, investigators say they purchased from the store three high-capacity magazines: a 33-round magazine for a Glock, a 27-round magazine for a rifle, and a 40-round magazine, also for a rifle.

Walter Wentz himself allegedly sold prohibited items during the investigators second visit to the Kelso shop.

The suit alleges that Gators Custom Guns was a persistent purchaser of large capacity magazines and that the store purchased and (with) caused to be delivered into Washington at least 11,408 large capacity magazines since the passage of the law.

Our sweep continues to show that an overwhelming majority of gun retailers in Washington are doing the right thing and complying with the law, Ferguson said in the press release. In contrast, Gators Custom Guns intentionally built a retail stockpile that exceeds anything my office has seen since the ban went into effect.

During the pandemic, Gators Custom Guns was also reported to be operating even though it wasnt considered an essential business under outgoing Governor Jay Inslees stay-at-home orders, as previously reported by The Daily News. Walter Wentz told the outlet at the time he received legal advise stating his business was essential.

Other alleged violators

Ferguson filed a similar consumer protection lawsuit against Federal Way Discount Guns and its owner for selling high-capacity magazines. Ferguson was able to get a county court judge to order an injunction halting the store from selling high-capacity magazines in December.

The Attorney Generals Office also fined a Lakewood, Washington gun seller, WSG Guns, $15,000 for intentionally violating the high-capacity magazine ban, after the company allegedly sold the prohibited items two months after the law barring their sale went into effect.

According to the lawsuit, large-capacity magazines were used in 10 of the deadliest mass shootings in U.S. history since 2009. Multiple high-capacity magazines were found in the hotel room of Stephen Paddock, the man alleged to have killed 61 people in the 2017 Las Vegas shooting.
A transient who admitted to shooting a man in the head in 2021 in Kelso was sentenced Monday to 55 years and eight months in a Washington state prison.

According to court documents, Jeremiah Donnie Mathews, 35, of unknown, pleaded guilty to seven charges last month, including first-degree robbery and murder for shooting a man and stealing his truck, and was given concurrent sentences. Still, the two firearm enhancements, which are connected to the first-degree murder and robbery, will run consecutively, according to the Cowlitz County Prosecutors Office.

According to the probable cause statement, police became aware of Mathews criminal acts after his former partner told police he murdered a person and buried the body on private property in Kelso after she was arrested on outstanding warrants.

Later, authorities found the body on private property near the 1900 block of South River Road in Kelso. The victim was buried about 6 feet deep and wrapped in a tarp.

Two witnesses, who are close to Mathews, told police they saw Mathews with a handgun.

While using the victims truck, Mathews dragged the body, plus the victims belongings, into a fresh grave, according to court records.

The report states that after the shooting, Mathews burned the clothes he was wearing and a futon that covered the body, then drove away in the victims truck while wearing nothing but his underwear and gloves.

After the events of the shooting, Mathews later traded the victims truck for a Ford Aspire by allegedly forging the victims signature to complete the transaction.

Mathews told police after his arrest in Vancouver on Oct. 14, 2021, that he killed the victim on Sept. 15, 2021, and said, according to the probable cause statement, I see an open shot and got him in the back of the head. He said the motive for the crime was to show his former partner he was loyal, and he also wanted the victims truck.
Wherever you were on Sept. 11, 2001, Americans from coast to coast were affected by the terrorist attacks unleashed on the World Trade Center and Pentagon, even if they had no personal connection.

Thats why John Jackson  a Tenino metal worker, U.S. Army veteran and owner of Jackson Field Welding Services, Inc.  was confused and frustrated when, after years of working with Washington state officials to get a 9/11 memorial placed on the Capitol campus in Olympia, he said he was suddenly told the memorial had no significance to the state in 2011.

Eventually, the memorial found a home in Cashmere in Central Washington in in 2015. Jackson is writing a book about the placement titled The Message, which he is currently editing and preparing to submit it to Christian Faith Publishing.

The bronze statue features a firefighter, a military service member, a flight attendant and an office worker standing around the footprint of the Twin Towers, joined in hands facing outwards in a semi circle, signaling a missing person.

To complete the memorial, you actually have to join in and hold hands, Jackson said. I wanted to be able to say it represented every single human being on the planet. If you feel like youre not represented, then you can stand there.

Back in November 2001, Jackson created the Spirit of America Memorial Foundation to build a memorial.

The goal was to use pieces from the World Trade Center and Pentagon in the memorial itself. Jackson knew many who lost loved ones on that day would never recover their bodies. He wanted to help them find closure.

He knows the pain of not being able to recover a loved one.

In January 1997, Jacksons cousin, John Ferry, was one of four men lost at sea when their Seattle-based fishing boat, the Pacific Alliance, capsized and sank north of Vancouver Island.

Following his cousins death, Jackson built a stainless steel cross memorial with the names of the four men lost at sea, and he, along with other friends and family members of those lost, held a memorial service out at sea where the ship sank.

We dropped that cross overboard in 7,000 feet of water, and that was closure for my family because at least we were able to do something, Jackson said.

Shortly after Sept. 11, 2001, Jacksons mother-in-law pointed out how a monsignor at the National Cathedral who was talking on TV shared his late cousins name.

He was talking about how we need to find a path of healing and compassion for the future, and thats what gave me the idea to build this memorial using steel from the World Trade Center and pieces from the Pentagon, because I knew there would be no more bodies recovered, Jackson said. Just like what I experienced with our loved one, John, who we never recovered.

To Jackson, this was a sign to create the memorial.

Thats when he created the Spirit of America Memorial Foundation, a nonprofit, to raise money for the memorials creation. Jackson was helped by one of his welders, Morgan Lindbergh, the grandson of the famous aviator, Charles Lindbergh.

Jackson began working with former Third Congressional District Rep. Brian Baird, who wanted to help him put a 9/11 memorial on the Washington Capitol campus. Baird helped expedite the foundation getting its nonprofit status.

The Capitol was chosen because Jackson knew aside from those lost in the terrorist attacks, many more military service members would lose their lives fighting in the wars that ensued in Iraq and Afghanistan.

During the first few years, Jackson met others who wanted to help design and create the memorial, including a local sculptor whose wife was an American Airlines flight attendant and knew several of the crew members killed on 9/11.

Another architect who helped create the memorial, Robert Miller, also had a personal connection to the tragedy.

Miller came up to talk to me and asked if I had a minute, and he said, I just want to let you know that my sister-in-laws husband was killed in the World Trade Center, Jackson recalled.

With Bairds help, Jackson was able to coordinate with New York state representatives and iron workers in New Jersey who were processing the remains of the World Trade Center and secured pieces of steel for the memorial.

I was just hitting dead ends and couldnt get a hold of anybody, Jackson said.

Finally, he found a doctor whose father worked at the Pentagon who offered help.

I deeply appreciated that because I wasnt getting anywhere with my phone calls, and about two days later, I got a phone call from Major General Dean Cash, of the Future War Scenarios Department, who happened to be her dad at the Pentagon, Jackson said. He immediately asked, well son, how much do you need and how soon can you get here?

Stone pieces from the Pentagon had been secured, and with help from the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, the artifacts from World Trade Center and Pentagon were transported across the country.

With the pieces for the memorial secured, Jackson met with the members of the Washington state Capitol Grounds Committee, former Commissioner of Public Lands Doug Sutherland, former Secretary of State Sam Reed and former Governor Gary Locke, to finalize the memorials location in Olympia in 2004.

They were all overwhelmingly supportive, Jackson added.

The plans for the memorial satisfied almost every committee criteria except for one, a law that dictated no commemorative memorials could be placed on Capitol grounds until 10 years after the event.

I thought, OK, well, that will give us some time to fundraise, Jackson said.

Jackson took the remnants around the state to county fairs and other events, and raised nearly $800,000 to pay for the bronze statues and the rest of the memorial. He hoped to have it complete and ready to dedicate on the 10-year anniversary of 9/11.

In 2011, the memorial was finally ready and was escorted to the Capitol in Olympia by more than 400 Patriot Guard motorcycle riders, according to Jackson, and the final plans to install it were submitted.

But Jackson said he received a letter stating the memorial wouldn't be accepted.

A news release went out saying Washington state had rejected a 9/11 memorial shortly after that. The release included Jacksons contact information, and soon he was getting calls from across the country from communities offering to give the memorial a home.

Colorado, South Carolina, Missouri, you wouldnt believe how many calls I got. And they were all like, Hey, well take that memorial. Whats the matter with your state? Jackson said. I said its not our state, its our governor.

Despite the offers, Jackson wanted to keep the memorial in the state, as it was Washington citizens who raised the money for it in the first place.

They paid for it, Jackson added.

The Spirit of America Memorial Foundation opened up to take proposals from any Washington communities interested in giving the 9/11 memorial a home. A total of 17 cities applied, including Chehalis.

It came down to three finalists, and through a secret vote of the (Spirit of America Memorial Foundation) board, Cashmere was picked, Jackson said.

Located at Riverside Park in Cashmere, the memorial was officially dedicated in 2015 and stands there permanently. Aside from the bronze statues, the memorial includes the pieces of the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, Twin Tower statues, a Flight 93 memorial and reflection benches.

I had no personal connection to 9/11. I just felt God was pushing me through this whole process, because everytime I needed something to happen, something would happen. This person would appear, and each challenge kept getting met, Jackson said.
France's radiation watchdog has banned sales of Apple iPhone 12 after tests that it said showed the smartphone breached European radiation exposure limits. The Agence Nationale des Frequences (ANFR) said on Tuesday the model's Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) - a measure of the rate of radiofrequency energy absorbed by the body from a piece of equipment - was higher than legally allowed.

Jean-Noel Barrot, France's junior minister for the digital economy, told newspaper Le Parisien a software update could fix the problem. If Apple does not resolve the issue, the ANFR said it would order a recall of the device across France.

Apple disputes the watchdog's conclusions, saying the iPhone 12 was certified by multiple international bodies as compliant with global radiation standards.

Not sure which

mobile to buy?

WHAT IS SAR?

"Standard Absorption Rate" refers to the dose of energy that the body absorbs from any source of radiation. It is expressed as watts per kilogram of body weight.

The radiation from mobile phones is a result of the way they work, by transmitting radiofrequency waves, creating electromagnetic fields. Unlike the radiation from X-rays or gamma rays  caused by radioactive decay  phones cannot break chemical bonds or cause changes to cells in the human body, a process which can ultimately cause harm like cancer.

WHAT HAS ANFR FOUND?

The ANFR said it recently carried out random tests on 141 phones, including iPhone 12, bought from shops. In independent laboratory tests, two iPhone 12s did not comply with EU standards, the office of the Digital Minister told Reuters.

Smartphone radiation tests have so far led to 42 imposed sale stops in the country, it said.

HOW DANGEROUS IS IT?

The main issue caused by a phone's "non-ionizing" type of radiation is the heating up of body tissue. Above set limits, and depending on the duration of exposure, this can lead to health effects such as burns or heat stroke, according to the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), a body which sets guidelines for the limits globally.

The ANFR said accredited labs had found an SAR of 5.74 watts per kilogram during tests of the iPhone 12 being held in the hand or kept in a trouser pocket. The EU standard is 4.0 watts per kilogram. However, this represents no risk to human health, the chair of ICNIRP, Professor Rodney Croft, said.

The WHO and other international health bodies say there is no definitive evidence that radiation from mobile phones causes other adverse health effects. However, it has called for more research.

In 2011, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classed the radiation from mobile phones as "possibly carcinogenic", or class 2B. This designation is used when the agency cannot rule out a potential link.

The agency said there was "limited" evidence of an increased risk of brain tumours in some, but not all, of the research available - and particularly for "heavy users" - but it could not rule out bias or errors in the data, meaning no definitive conclusions could be drawn.

HOW HAS APPLE RESPONDED?

The ANFR has said a software update should be sufficient to fix the issue.

In simple terms, this is because the software - the apps, programmes and other operating information running on a device - affects how the hardware (the device) works. So a software update should be enough to reduce iPhone 12 users' SAR exposure.

However, Apple has rejected the agency's findings. The company said it had provided ANFR with multiple Apple and independent third-party lab results proving its compliance with all applicable SAR regulations and standards in the world.

Apple said it would contest the results of ANFR's review and would continue to engage with the agency to show it is compliant.

ARE THERE MORE BANS TO COME?

The ANFR said the iPhone 12 had failed to meet European Union standards, raising questions over whether more sales bans could be coming elsewhere.

ANFR will pass on its findings to regulators in other EU member states.

While it remains unclear if other authorities are investigating, Germany's Federal Office for Radiation Protection said on Wednesday "the question of the need for change is currently the subject of discussions".
AI Roundup: Adobe is introducing generative AI features and new pricing plans, with subscription costs rising from $2 to $5 per month starting in November. On the other hand, EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen called for a global panel of experts to address the challenges of AI regulation, involving scientists, tech companies, and independent experts. All this, and more in today's AI roundup.

1. Adobe introduces AI features, pricing plans

Over the past few months, Adobe has been slowly rolling out AI features for its suite of programs. The company on Wednesday opened access to various generative AI features, while also revealing pricing plans, according to a Reuters report. Starting in November, the subscription plans for Adobe's programs will rise from $2 to $5 per month. In addition to that, customers will get credits' every month that can be utilized towards generative AI features.

2. Need for global' panel of experts on AI, says EU Chief

With arguments surrounding the rapid development of AI and its regulation, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen called for a global' panel of experts that will tackle the challenges posed by this rapidly evolving technology. According to an AFP report, I believe we need a similar body for AI -- on the risks and its benefits for humanity. Yes, with scientists, but also tech companies and independent experts, the EU Chief said at the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

3. Salesforce CEO calls AI amazing'

AI-powered applications such as ChatGPT, and Stable Diffusion, which can generate content from just text-based prompts, have fascinated the world in the last few months, highlighting the potential of AI. Speaking about this technology, Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff called it amazing', while expressing his company's commitment to creating a trusted AI platform, according to a PTI report. Technology is also moving faster than ever. We have seen over and over again from cloud to mobile to social to the data explosion we are experiencing now... plus now this burst of AI... nothing like any of us have ever seen before, this has got everyone's attention, Benioff said.

4. Alibaba's AI model now open to the public

Chinese technology giant Alibaba on Wednesday announced that it is opening up its AI model called Tongyi Qianwen to the public, Reuters reported. This could mean it has received regulatory approval from the government, which is mandatory for companies before their products are made publicly available. The company further stated that it has reached cooperation agreements with companies such as Oppo, Taobao, and DingTalk, which will use the Tongyi Qianwen to train their own AI models.

5. IIT, INRIA researchers develop AI algorithms to inspect bridges

Experts at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi and France's National Institute for Research in Digital Science and Technology (INRIA) have announced the development of AI-powered algorithms that will allow them to predict the structural health of bridges, as well as other structures such as ropeways, transmission towers and more. According to a PTI report, We have employed data-driven methods like Machine Learning, AI, and Bayesian statistical inference to estimate a bridge's health and predict its remaining usable life. This outcome has the potential to reduce risks to infrastructure under operational and adverse loading condition, Subhamoy Sen, Associate Professor, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, IIT Mandi said.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Amazon says it's boosting pay for contracted drivers who deliver millions of packages to customers every day.

The company announced at a conference for delivery firms this week that it will invest $440 million over the next year to increase pay rates for drivers. It did not disclose how much the bump will be, but said it expects U.S. drivers to earn an average of $20.50 per hour.

Many of Amazon's delivery service partners, or DSPs, already pay well above that. The company did not share the minimum pay for drivers across the country. According to its website, some at select stations make at least $20 per hour.

The e-commerce company launched its delivery service partners program in 2018 as part of an effort to reduce its reliance on outside carriers such as UPS and FedEx. Over the past five years, Amazon says 3,500 firms have signed up for the program and created 279,000 delivery jobs worldwide. The company gives the firms a pot of money to cover pay and other expenses for every route they're given, though some have complained they found it challenging to be profitable.

The announcement comes as the International Brotherhood of Teamsters is ramping up its focus on the company's delivery workforce. Since June, dozens of Amazon drivers and dispatchers who work for a California-based delivery firm that the Teamsters unionized in April have been picketing company warehouses and calling for the retail giant to come to the negotiating table.

Amazon said the pay hike will help DSPs recruit and retain employees.

The company also said it will invest an additional $400 million to help provide child care support and expand educational opportunities for employees who want to take courses at accredited institutions. Among other things, a spokesperson for the company said that investment will also cover safety and training.

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Germany has blocked a complete Chinese takeover of a satellite startup on national security grounds, sources close to the matter told AFP Thursday, as Berlin takes an increasingly hard line against Beijing.

Concerned at the heavy reliance of Europe's top economy on China, Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government has been pushing to "de-risk" and dial back dependencies.

The German tech company KLEO Connect aims to establish its own network of satellites in low Earth orbit that can provide internet to remote locations, hoping to rival Starlink.

The strategic importance of space telecommunications has been highlighted by the Ukraine war where Starlink, operated by Elon Musk-owned company SpaceX, has become a key battlefield tool for Kyiv.

According to German media reports, Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology (SSST) holds about 53 percent of KLEO Connect and wanted to acquire another 45 percent from German firm EightyLeo.

But Berlin blocked SSST's move after an investment review by the economy ministry concluded that it could endanger public security.

KLEO Connect did not respond to requests for comment. The economy ministry has also declined comment.

There has been a long struggle for control of the company, at the heart of which are frequency rightsgiving access to satellite spectrumregistered in Liechtenstein some years ago, Die Welt newspaper reported.

Other recent cases have highlighted growing German concerns over Chinese investments.

Last year, the government blocked the sale of two chipmakers to Chinese investors due to security concerns.

The proposed sale of a stake in Hamburg port to a Chinese firm sparked a furious political row, but Chancellor Olaf Scholz ultimately approved the acquisition of a stake, albeit at a reduced size.

 2023 AFP
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

MIT researchers created a new annotated synthetic dataset of images that depict a wide range of scenarios, which can be used to help machine-learning models understand the concepts in a scene. Pictured is a scene from the synthetic dataset, and the detailed text description says, "This scene contains a box, and one human. They are in a castle ruin with old stones. The box is to the left of the human. The box is in front of the human. The human rotate jump. The human is male. The human wears a black t-shirt and dark blue jeans."

Powerful machine-learning algorithms known as vision and language models, which learn to match text with images, have shown remarkable results when asked to generate captions or summarize videos.

While these models excel at identifying objects, they often struggle to understand concepts, like object attributes or the arrangement of items in a scene. For instance, a vision and language model might recognize the cup and table in an image, but fail to grasp that the cup is sitting on the table.

Researchers from MIT, the MIT-IBM Watson AI Lab, and elsewhere have demonstrated a new technique that utilizes computer-generated data to help vision and language models overcome this shortcoming.

The researchers created a synthetic dataset of images that depict a wide range of scenarios, object arrangements, and human actions, coupled with detailed text descriptions. They used this annotated dataset to "fix" vision and language models so they can learn concepts more effectively. Their technique ensures these models can still make accurate predictions when they see real images.

When they tested models on concept understanding, the researchers found that their technique boosted accuracy by up to 10%. This could improve systems that automatically caption videos or enhance models that provide natural language answers to questions about images, with applications in fields like e-commerce or health care.

"With this work, we are going beyond nouns in the sense that we are going beyond just the names of objects to more of the semantic concept of an object and everything around it. Our idea was that, when a machine-learning model sees objects in many different arrangements, it will have a better idea of how arrangement matters in a scene," says Khaled Shehada, a graduate student in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and co-author of a paper on this technique.

Shehada wrote the paper with lead author Paola Cascante-Bonilla, a computer science graduate student at Rice University; Aude Oliva, director of strategic industry engagement at the MIT Schwarzman College of Computing, MIT director of the MIT-IBM Watson AI Lab, and a senior research scientist in the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL); senior author Leonid Karlinsky, a research staff member in the MIT-IBM Watson AI Lab; and others at MIT, the MIT-IBM Watson AI Lab, Georgia Tech, Rice University, Ecole des Ponts, Weizmann Institute of Science, and IBM Research. The paper will be presented at the International Conference on Computer Vision held in Paris October 26.

Focusing on objects

Vision and language models typically learn to identify objects in a scene, and can end up ignoring object attributes, such as color and size, or positional relationships, such as which object is on top of another object.

This is due to the method with which these models are often trained, known as contrastive learning. This training method involves forcing a model to predict the correspondence between images and text. When comparing natural images, the objects in each scene tend to cause the most striking differences. (Perhaps one image shows a horse in a field while the second shows a sailboat on the water.)

"Every image could be uniquely defined by the objects in the image. So, when you do contrastive learning, just focusing on the nouns and objects would solve the problem. Why would the model do anything differently?" says Karlinsky.

The researchers sought to mitigate this problem by using synthetic data to fine-tune a vision and language model. The fine-tuning process involves tweaking a model that has already been trained to improve its performance on a specific task.

They used a computer to automatically create synthetic videos with diverse 3D environments and objects, such as furniture and luggage, and added human avatars that interacted with the objects.

Using individual frames of these videos, they generated nearly 800,000 photorealistic images, and then paired each with a detailed caption. The researchers developed a methodology for annotating every aspect of the image to capture object attributes, positional relationships, and human-object interactions clearly and consistently in dense captions.

Because the researchers created the images, they could control the appearance and position of objects, as well as the gender, clothing, poses, and actions of the human avatars.

"Synthetic data allows a lot of diversity. With real images, you might not have a lot of elephants in a room, but with synthetic data, you could actually have a pink elephant in a room with a human, if you want," Cascante-Bonilla says.

Synthetic data have other advantages, too. They are cheaper to generate than real data, yet the images are highly photorealistic. They also preserve privacy because no real humans are shown in the images. And, because data are produced automatically by a computer, they can be generated quickly in massive quantities.

By using different camera viewpoints, or slightly changing the positions or attributes of objects, the researchers created a dataset with a far wider variety of scenarios than one would find in a natural dataset.

Fine-tune, but don't forget

However, when one fine-tunes a model with synthetic data, there is a risk that model might "forget" what it learned when it was originally trained with real data.

The researchers employed a few techniques to prevent this problem, such as adjusting the synthetic data so colors, lighting, and shadows more closely match those found in natural images. They also made adjustments to the model's inner-workings after fine-tuning to further reduce any forgetfulness.

Their synthetic dataset and fine-tuning strategy improved the ability of popular vision and language models to accurately recognize concepts by up to 10%. At the same time, the models did not forget what they had already learned.

Now that they have shown how synthetic data can be used to solve this problem, the researchers want to identify ways to improve the visual quality and diversity of these data, as well as the underlying physics that makes synthetic scenes look realistic. In addition, they plan to test the limits of scalability, and investigate whether model improvement starts to plateau with larger and more diverse synthetic datasets.

More information: Going Beyond Nouns With Vision & Language Models Using Synthetic Data. olivalab.mit.edu/Papers/going_beyond_nouns.pdf

This story is republished courtesy of MIT News (web.mit.edu/newsoffice/), a popular site that covers news about MIT research, innovation and teaching.
In a groundbreaking ruling that could potentially reshape the cryptocurrency landscape, Delaware Bankruptcy Court Judge John Dorsey gave his stamp of approval on September 13th for the sale of FTX digital assets. This decision comes after significant revisions were made to the draft order, setting the stage for a unique and carefully orchestrated sale process.

Under the approved guidelines, FTX will be granted the opportunity to sell its digital assets in weekly batches, with some notable exceptions. Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH), the two largest cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, are excluded from this sale. Additionally, certain insider-affiliated tokens will also be off-limits. However, the remaining digital assets will be fair game, allowing FTX to navigate the complex waters of bankruptcy proceedings with more flexibility.

The sale will be executed through an investment adviser, ensuring a structured and responsible approach. The guidelines outline specific limits, starting at $50 million for the initial week and escalating to $100 million in subsequent weeks. Importantly, theres a provision for flexibility. The limits can be increased with prior written approval from the creditors committee and the ad hoc committee. Furthermore, if deemed necessary, the court can grant permission to raise the limit to a whopping $200 million weekly.

This decision, while seemingly technical, carries immense significance for both the cryptocurrency industry and the bankruptcy legal landscape. In this comprehensive report, we dive deep into the implications of Judge Dorseys ruling, exploring how it could set the stage for future cryptocurrency-related bankruptcy cases and what it means for the broader crypto market.

The Unprecedented Ruling

The Delaware Bankruptcy Courts approval of FTXs digital asset sale is nothing short of unprecedented. While bankruptcy courts have traditionally dealt with the liquidation of physical assets, this case ventures into uncharted territory by allowing the sale of digital assets, which hold their value in the form of cryptocurrencies.

The decision acknowledges the unique nature of cryptocurrencies and the need for a balanced approach in bankruptcy proceedings. By permitting the sale of digital assets under carefully crafted guidelines, the court seeks to maximize the recovery for creditors while also recognizing the dynamic and evolving nature of the cryptocurrency market.

Implications for the Crypto Market

One cannot overstate the significance of this ruling for the broader cryptocurrency market. Cryptocurrencies have become an integral part of the global financial system, with a combined market capitalization that rivals some of the worlds largest corporations. This decision acknowledges the legitimacy of digital assets in the eyes of the law and sets a precedent for their treatment in bankruptcy cases.

Moreover, the fact that Bitcoin and Ethereum are excluded from the sale highlights their status as digital assets with a unique standing. They are, in essence, a digital gold and silver, serving as a store of value and a benchmark for the entire cryptocurrency market. This ruling underscores the idea that these cryptocurrencies are distinct from other tokens, and their exclusion from the sale reinforces their special status.

A Balanced Approach

The courts decision to involve an investment adviser in the sale process demonstrates a commitment to responsible and informed decision-making. The cryptocurrency market is known for its volatility, and the involvement of experts can help ensure that the assets are sold at opportune moments, maximizing their value for creditors.

Furthermore, the establishment of predetermined guidelines for the sale allows for transparency and predictability in the process. This minimizes the potential for disputes and ensures that all parties involved are on the same page, contributing to a smoother bankruptcy proceeding.

The Road Ahead

As this historic case unfolds, it will undoubtedly be closely watched by legal experts, cryptocurrency enthusiasts, and financial analysts alike. The sale of digital assets in bankruptcy proceedings is a complex and evolving area of law, and the FTX case could serve as a blueprint for future cases.

The flexibility built into the guidelines, including the ability to increase the sale limit with committee approval, offers room for adaptation in a rapidly changing market. This approach acknowledges that cryptocurrency values can fluctuate dramatically and allows for a more responsive strategy.

Moreover, the courts willingness to consider raising the weekly limit to $200 million underscores its commitment to ensuring that creditors are given the best possible chance to recover their investments. This is particularly significant given the considerable sums often involved in cryptocurrency holdings.

A Step Towards Clarity

Cryptocurrency regulations have been a topic of debate and discussion for years. This ruling, while specific to a bankruptcy case, contributes to the ongoing conversation about how cryptocurrencies should be treated under the law. It provides a degree of clarity and guidance that has been lacking in this rapidly evolving space.

The decision to exclude certain insider-affiliated tokens from the sale also highlights the need for transparency and fairness in cryptocurrency dealings. It is a reminder that even in the digital realm, rules and regulations exist to prevent abuse and ensure equitable treatment of all parties involved.

Market Reaction

Unsurprisingly, the cryptocurrency market has reacted swiftly to this news. While Bitcoin and Ethereum remain unaffected by the courts decision, other digital assets that may be part of the sale have experienced fluctuations in value.

Investors in these assets are closely monitoring developments in the FTX case, as it could impact the perceived value and stability of their holdings. The involvement of an investment adviser, tasked with optimizing the sale, is seen as a positive factor that could potentially result in higher recovery rates for creditors.

Conclusion

The Delaware Bankruptcy Courts approval of FTXs digital asset sale marks a significant milestone in the intersection of cryptocurrency and the legal system. This decision not only sets a precedent for future bankruptcy cases involving digital assets but also acknowledges the importance and legitimacy of cryptocurrencies in the modern financial landscape.

By excluding Bitcoin and Ethereum, the court recognizes the unique status of these cryptocurrencies and underscores their significance as digital storehouses of value. The guidelines for the sale, including the involvement of an investment adviser and the potential for limit adjustments, reflect a balanced and responsible approach to handling cryptocurrency assets in bankruptcy proceedings.
In a case of whiplash, suspended attorney general Ken Paxtons lawyers  who made a sudden motion for a directed verdict, challenging the sufficiency of the evidence the House managers presented in their case  withdrew their motion.

The motion wouldve needed majority approval, or 16 senators.

Instead, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who is presiding over the trial, announced that House impeachment managers also had withdrawn their motion to consolidate the trials two-step verdict vote into a single step. The managers proposed a rules change stating that a conviction on any article of impeachment would not only remove Paxton from office, it would ban him from holding future state elective office. Senate rules require a separate vote for a permanent ban if Paxton were convicted.

Court resumed briefly and Paxtons defense called its first witness: Michael Gerhardt, an impeachment expert at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Before he could take the stand, the House lawyers immediately asked to approach the dais to engage in discussion. Minutes later, Patrick announced the court would adjourn for the day, delaying Gerhardts testimony. The trial will resume at 9 a.m. Thursday.

Near the end of the seventh day of often grueling testimony, House lawyer Rusty Hardin rested his case.

But he did it accidentally, setting off a bizarre and unexpected chain of events that could potentially end the impeachment trial earlier than anticipated.

Hardin admitted that he accidentally rested too early before Paxtons lawyers could cross-examine the last witness, Blake Brickman, one of the whistleblowers.

Paxton lawyer Tony Buzbee declined to press to cross-examine Brickman and instead quickly moved for a directed verdict, arguing that House managers had not sufficiently proved the articles of impeachment. The written motions challenged every article singly or in groups, he said.

Eligible senators then left the chamber to deliberate on a directed verdict, which needs majority approval, or 16 senators.

House managers also made a motion to change the trial rules so that if senators convict Paxton on a single article of impeachment, he would not only be permanently removed from his post but prevented from running for state-level offices in the future.

The current rules, which senators approved in June, state that conviction on an article would merely remove Paxton from office. Senators would vote separately to decide whether Paxton should be barred from future office.

The earliest the Senate can consider the motion, which requires 24-hour notice, is around 11:30 a.m. Thursday. Based on the time left for each side to argue its case, senators could begin deliberations as soon as Thursday evening.

Earlier in the day, Buzbee took aim at impeachment Article 10, which alleges Nate Paul paid to renovate the Paxtons Austin home, during a cross-examination of Drew Wicker.

Wicker, Paxtons personal assistant, had testified that he overheard Paxton telling a contractor renovating the home that he wanted granite countertops in the kitchen, to which the contractor replied Ill have to check with Nate, which he understood to be Paul.

But Buzbee produced two photographs of the Tarrytown homes kitchen, taken before the renovation in 2020 and last month, that Wicker confirmed showed no changes to the counters, cabinets or stove.

House impeachment managers have cast the renovation as part of a quid pro quo, as Paxton directed his office to help Paul investigate his business rivals.

Buzbee, a seasoned litigator, then walked the jury through a series of documents that purported to show a construction firm billing the Paxtons, an insurance company paying out a claim to the Paxtons, and then the attorney general directing the trustee of the familys blind trust to pay that sum of $121,617 to the construction firm.

The Houses evidence for this item was largely circumstantial. Their exhibits had previously pointed out that the construction firm, Cupertino Builders, was run by a man with close ties to Paul.

House lawyer Erin Epley suggested that perhaps Paxton and Paul considered, and then abandoned, a plan to install granite countertops. And she noted that the date Paxton made the payment, Sept. 30, 2020, was the same day that whistleblowers reported Paxton to the FBI and issued a cease-and-desist letter to outside lawyer Brandon Cammack.

Borrowing a line from Buzbee, Epley suggested there are no coincidences in Austin.

Wicker testified that throughout 2020 he grew increasingly uneasy with Paxtons behavior and close relationship with Paul, an Austin real estate investor and political donor.

Wickers position meant he had a close relationship with both Paxton and his wife. He described Ken Paxton as a friend and said Angela Paxton was nothing but loving and caring. But the loyal aide said he became increasingly concerned with Ken Paxtons relationship with Paul, which included frequent lunches and meetings, including some that were not on the attorney generals official schedule or include his security detail.

He testified that he made several deliveries to Pauls office, including in one instance a manila envelope. Wicker said he didnt know what the contents of the envelope were.

During the summer of 2020, Wicker was staying with his family at the Omni Barton Creek Hotel when he and his father ran into Ken Paxton and a woman coming out of the elevator. Wicker testified that he heard them having a lively conversation through the elevator doors. When they opened, the woman quickly exited while Paxton, wearing gym shorts, shook hands with Wicker and his father and said he was headed to the gym.

Wicker identified the woman as Olson.

The elevator encounter did spur some questions, Wicker said.

Wicker also testified that Paxton had four cell phones, including two extra phones. On a few occasions, Paxton asked to use Wickers phone. Wicker said he did not know who Paxton called because every time Paxton returned the phone the call log was wiped.

In fall 2020, Wicker said Paxton offered him a promotion to expand his duties to include more policy-related work. It was around that time that the FBI contacted Wicker amid a report from senior staff alleging that Paxton had misused his office to benefit Paul.

Wicker said he turned down the promotion to protect Paxton  and himself.

I didnt want General Paxton to have the appearance to offer me anything in light of the FBI reaching out, he testified, adding that he also wanted to avoid the appearance of receiving a benefit.

Wicker said he also rejected Paxtons first assistant Brent Websters offer to use the office of attorney generals lawyers to represent him with the FBI. Wicker said he preferred to hire his own counsel.
Hess Corporation, an exploration and production company, explores, develops, produces, purchases, transports, and sells crude oil, natural gas liquids (NGLs), and natural gas. The company operates in two segments, Exploration and Production, and Midstream. It conducts production operations primarily in the United States, Guyana, the Malaysia/Thailand Joint Development Area, and Malaysia; and exploration activities principally offshore Guyana, the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, and offshore Suriname and Canada. The company is also involved in gathering, compressing, and processing natural gas; fractionating NGLs; gathering, terminaling, loading, and transporting crude oil and NGL through rail car; and storing and terminaling propane, as well as providing water handling services primarily in the Bakken Shale plays in the Williston Basin area of North Dakota. The company was incorporated in 1920 and is headquartered in New York, New York.
Omega Healthcare Investors (NYSE:OHI) pays an annual dividend of $2.68 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 8.13%. OHI has a dividend yield higher than 75% of all dividend-paying stocks, making it a leading dividend payer. The dividend payout ratio is 262.75%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on EPS estimates, OHI will have a dividend payout ratio of 95.04% in the coming year. This indicates that the company may not be able to sustain their current dividend.

Read our dividend analysis for OHI.
Curtiss-Wright Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides engineered products, solutions, and services to the aerospace, defense, general industrial, and power generation markets worldwide. It operates through three segments: Aerospace & Industrial, Defense Electronics, and Naval & Power. The Aerospace & Industrial segment offers industrial and specialty vehicle products, such as electronic throttle control devices, joysticks, and transmission shifters; sensors, controls and electro-mechanical actuation components used in commercial and military aircraft; and surface technology services, including shot peening, laser peening, and coatings. The Defense Electronics segment provides commercial off-the-shelf embedded computing board-level modules, data acquisition and flight test instrumentation equipment, integrated subsystems, instrumentation and control systems, and tactical communications solutions; turret aiming and stabilization products, and weapons handling systems; avionics and electronics; flight test equipment; and aircraft data management solutions. The Naval & Power segment offers hardware, pumps, pump seals, control rod drive mechanisms, valves, fastening systems, specialized containment doors, airlock hatches, spent fuel management products, and fluid sealing products for nuclear power plants and nuclear equipment manufacturers; and naval propulsion and auxiliary equipment, including coolant pumps, power-dense compact motors, generators, steam turbines, valves, and secondary propulsion systems, as well as ship repair and maintenance services primarily to the U.S. navy. Curtiss-Wright Corporation was founded in 1929 and is headquartered in Davidson, North Carolina.
Gray Television, Inc., a television broadcast company, owns and operates television stations and digital assets in the United States. As of February 28, 2019, it owned and operated television stations in 91 television markets broadcasting approximately 400 program streams, including approximately 150 channels affiliated with the CBS Network, the NBC Network, the ABC Network, and the FOX Network. The company also broadcasts secondary digital channels affiliated to ABC, CBS, and FOX, as well as channels affiliated with various other networks and program services, including CW Plus Network, MY Network, the MeTV Network, This TV Network, Antenna TV, Telemundo, Cozi, Heroes and Icons, and MOVIES! Network; and local news/weather channels in various markets. In addition, it is also involved in the video program production, marketing, and digital businesses including Raycom Sports, Tupelo-Raycom, and RTM Studios; and production of PowerNation programs and content. The company was formerly known as Gray Communications Systems, Inc. and changed its name to Gray Television, Inc. in August 2002. Gray Television, Inc. was founded in 1897 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.
The following companies are subsidiares of LyondellBasell Industries: A. Schulman, A. Schulman 's-Gravendeel B.V., A. Schulman AG, A. Schulman Asia Limited, A. Schulman Belgium BVBA, A. Schulman Canada Ltd., A. Schulman Castellon S.L., A. Schulman Europe GmbH & Co. KG, A. Schulman Europe International B.V., A. Schulman Europe Verwaltungs GmbH, A. Schulman Gainsborough Ltd, A. Schulman GmbH, A. Schulman GmbH (Austrian Branch), A. Schulman Holding Company France S.A.S., A. Schulman Holdings (France) S.A.S., A. Schulman Holdings S.a.r.l., A. Schulman Inc., A. Schulman Inc. Limited, A. Schulman International Inc., A. Schulman International Services BVBA, A. Schulman Ireland Limited, A. Schulman Magyarorszag Kereskedelmi Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, A. Schulman Nordic AB, A. Schulman Plastics (Branch), A. Schulman Plastics (Dongguan) Ltd., A. Schulman Plastics (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., A. Schulman Plastics (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., A. Schulman Plastics BVBA, A. Schulman Plastics India Private Limited, A. Schulman Plastics PTY. LTD., A. Schulman Plastics S.r.l., A. Schulman Plastics SAS, A. Schulman Plastics bvba Bornem Sucursala Cluj-Napoca, A. Schulman Plastics organizacni slozka, A. Schulman Plastk Sanayi ve Ticaret Anonim Sirketi, A. Schulman Plasticos do Brasil Ltda., A. Schulman Polska Sp. z o.o., A. Schulman Real Estate GmbH & Co. KG, A. Schulman S.A.S., A. Schulman S.a.r.l., A. Schulman Thermoplastic Compounds Limited, A. Schulman Thermoplastic Compounds Sdn Bhd, A. Schulman de Mexico S.A. de C.V., A. Schulman del Peru S.A.C., A.Schulman Poznan Sp. Z o.o., ARCO Chemical, AS Global Holdings Inc., AS Mex Hold S.A. de C.V., AS Worldwide LLC, AS Worldwide LLC & Cie S.C.S., ASI Akron Land Co., ASI Employment S.A. de C.V., ASI Investments Holding Co., Al Waha Petrochemical Company, BKV Beteiligungs- und Kunststoffverwertungs-gesellschaft mbH, BMC Deutschland GmbH, BMC Dongguan Limited, BMC Far East Limited, BMC TetraDURTurkey Plastik Hammadde Kompozit Uretim Sanayi ve Ticaret Limted Sirketi, Basell (Thailand) Holdings B.V., Basell Advanced Polyolefins (Dalian) Co. Ltd., Basell Advanced Polyolefins (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Basell Advanced Polyolefins (Thailand) Company Ltd., Basell Arabie Investissements SAS, Basell Asia Pacific Limited, Basell Bayreuth Chemie GmbH, Basell Benelux B.V., Basell Chemie Koln GmbH, Basell Europe Holdings B.V., Basell Germany Holdings GmbH, Basell Holdings Middle East GmbH, Basell Iberica Poliolefinas Holdings S.L., Basell International Holdings B.V., Basell International Trading FZE, Basell Italia S.r.l, Basell Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Basell Moyen Orient Investissements SAS, Basell North America Inc., Basell Orlen Polyolefins Sp. Z.o.o., Basell Orlen Polyolefins Sprzedaz Sp. Z.o.o., Basell Poliolefinas Comercial Espagnola S.L., Basell Poliolefinas Iberica S.L., Basell Poliolefinas Ltda., Basell Poliolefinas S. de R.L. de C.V., Basell Poliolefine Italia S.r.l., Basell Polyolefin Istanbul Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Basell Polyolefine GmbH, Basell Polyolefines France S.A.S., Basell Polyolefins Company BVBA, Basell Polyolefins India Private Limited, Basell Polyolefins Korea Ltd., Basell Polyolefins UK Limited, Basell Sales & Marketing Company B.V., Basell Service Company B.V., Basell Slovakia s.r.o., Basell Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Basell UK Holdings Limited, Basell UK Ltd., Brindisi Servizi Generali S.c.a.r.l., Bulk Molding Compounds Inc., Bulk Molding Compounds Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Bulk Molding Compounds do Brasil Industria de Plasticos Reforcados Ltda., Citadel Brazil Holdings LLC, Citadel Intermediate Holdings LLC, Citadel Plastics Holdings Cooperatief U.A., Citadel Plastics Holdings Inc., Citadel Plastics Mexico Holdings LLC, Citadel Plastics Netherlands Holdings LLC, Compagnie Petrochimique de Berre SAS, Compagnie de Distribution des Hydrocarbures SAS, EMS Holding Ltd., EPS Ethylen-Pipeline-Sud Geschaftsfuhrungs GmbH, EPS Ethylen-Pipeline-Sud GmbH & Co. KG, Elian S.A.S., Equistar Bayport LLC, Equistar Chemicals LP, Equistar GP LLC, Equistar LP LLC, Equistar Mont Belvieu Corporation, GuangZhou Basell Advanced Polyolefins Co. Ltd., HGGC Citadel Plastics Holdings Inc., HGGC Citadel Plastics Intermediate Holdings Inc., HMC Polymers Company Limited, HPC Holdings LLC, Hadlock Plastics LLC, Houston Refining LP, I.F.M. S.c.a.r.l., ICO Europe C.V., ICO Holdings LLC, ICO Holdings New Zealand Limited, ICO Petrochemical Cayman Islands, ICO Polymers Cayman Islands, Indelpro S.A. de C.V., Infraserv GmbH & Co. Hochst KG, Inmobiliaria Satchmo S. de R.L. de C.V., Innovacion Y Desarrollo en Materiales Avanzados A.C., J.R. Courtenay (N.Z.) Limited, LPI Holding Company, LYB (Barbados) SRL, LYB Advanced Polymer Solutions Ireland Limited, LYB Americas Finance Company LLC, LYB Equistar Holdings LLC, LYB Export Holdings Limited, LYB Exports Inc., LYB Finance Company B.V., LYB International Finance B.V., LYB International Finance II B.V., LYB International Finance III LLC, LYB Ireland 2 Limited, LYB Ireland Limited, LYB La Porte Hyperzone LLC, LYB Luxembourg S.a r.l., LYB Matrixx Holdings Inc., LYB Receivables LLC, LYB Trading Company B.V., LYB Treasury Services Ltd., Limited Liability Company "LyondellBasell Polyolefins", Limited Liability Company A. Schulman, Lucent Polymers Inc., Lyondell Asia Holdings Limited, Lyondell Centennial Corp., Lyondell Chemical Company, Lyondell Chemical Europe Inc., Lyondell Chemical Overseas Services Inc., Lyondell Chemical Products Europe LLC, Lyondell Chemical Properties L.P., Lyondell Chemical Technology 1 Inc., Lyondell Chemical Technology L.P., Lyondell Chemical Technology Management Inc., Lyondell Chemie (PO-11) B.V., Lyondell Chemie (POSM) B.V., Lyondell Chemie Nederland B.V., Lyondell Chimie France SAS, Lyondell China Holdings Limited, Lyondell Greater China Holdings Limited, Lyondell Greater China Ltd., Lyondell Greater China Trading Limited, Lyondell Japan Inc., Lyondell PO-11 C.V., Lyondell POJVGP LLC, Lyondell POJVLP LLC, Lyondell POTechGP Inc., Lyondell POTechLP Inc., Lyondell Refining Company LLC, Lyondell Refining I LLC, Lyondell South Asia Pte Ltd, LyondellBasell Acetyls Holdco LLC, LyondellBasell Acetyls LLC, LyondellBasell Advanced Polyolefins Mexico S.A. de C.V., LyondellBasell Australia (Holdings) Pty Ltd, LyondellBasell Australia Pty Ltd, LyondellBasell Brasil Ltda., LyondellBasell Canada Inc., LyondellBasell Central Europe Kft., LyondellBasell China Holdings B.V., LyondellBasell Circular Economy B.V., LyondellBasell Covestro Manufacturing Maasvlakte V.O.F., LyondellBasell Egypt LLC, LyondellBasell F&F Holdco LLC, LyondellBasell Finance Company, LyondellBasell Holdings France SAS, LyondellBasell Hungary Kft, LyondellBasell Industries Holdings B.V., LyondellBasell Industries N.V., LyondellBasell Investment LLC, LyondellBasell Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., LyondellBasell Polyolefin (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., LyondellBasell Services France S.A.S., LyondellBasell Subholdings B.V., LyondellBasell Taiwan Co. Ltd., LyondellBasell Transportation Company LLC, Millennium Chemicals, Natpet Schulman Specialty Plastic Compounds, Ningbo ZRCC Lyondell Chemical Co. Ltd., Ningbo ZRCC Lyondell Chemical Marketing Co. Ltd., OE Insurance Ltd, Oil Casualty Insurance Ltd., Oil Insurance Limited, PD Glycol LP, PO JV LP, PO Offtake LP, POSM II Limited Partnership L.P., POSM II Properties Partnership LLC, PT A.Schulman Plastics, PT ASchulman Plastics Commercial, PTT Chemical PCL, Poly Pacific Polymers Sdn. Bhd., Poly Pacific Pty. Ltd., PolyMirae Co. Ltd., Premix Holding Company, Premix Inc., Prime Colorants Inc., QCP B.V., QCP Holding B.V., QCP IP B.V., Quantum Composites Inc., RIGK GmbH Gesellschaft zur Ruckfuhrung industrieller and gewerblicher Kunstoffverpackungen mbH, Rayong Olefins Co. Ltd., Rexene - LDPE and PP Businesses, SCG ICO Polymers Company Limited, SJS Plastiblends, San Jacinto Rail Limited, Saudi Ethylene & Polyethylene Company, Saudi Polyolefins Company, Sociedad Espanola De Materiales Plasticos Semap S.A., Societe des Stockages Petroliers du Rhone SA, Solvay Engineered Polymers, Surplast S.A., TRV Thermische Ruckstandsverwertung GmbH & Co. KG, TRV Thermische Ruckstandsverwertung Verwaltungs-GmbH, Technology JV LP, The Matrixx Group Incorporated, ULSAN PP Co. Ltd., YNCORIS GmbH & Co. KG, Zylog Plastalloys, and tetra-DUR Kunststoff-Produktion GmbH.

Read More
Dominion Energy, Inc. produces and distributes energy in the United States. It operates through four segments: Dominion Energy Virginia, Gas Distribution, Dominion Energy South Carolina, and Contracted Assets. The Dominion Energy Virginia segment generates, transmits, and distributes regulated electricity to approximately 2.7 million residential, commercial, industrial, and governmental customers in Virginia and North Carolina. The Gas Distribution segment is involved in the regulated natural gas sales, transportation, gathering, storage, and distribution operations in Ohio, North Carolina, Utah, southwestern Wyoming, and southeastern Idaho that serve approximately 3.0 million residential, commercial and industrial customers. It also has nonregulated renewable natural gas facilities in operation. The Dominion Energy South Carolina segment generates, transmits, and distributes electricity to approximately 782,000 customers in the central, southern, and southwestern portions of South Carolina; and distributes natural gas to approximately 435,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers in South Carolina. The Contracted Assets segment is involved in the nonregulated long-term contracted renewable electric generation and solar generation facility development operations; and gas transportation, LNG import, and storage operations, as well as in the liquefaction facility. As of December 31, 2022, the company's portfolio of assets included approximately 31.0 gigawatt of electric generating capacity; 10,600 miles of electric transmission lines; 78,500 miles of electric distribution lines; and 93,500 miles of gas distribution mains and related service facilities. The company was formerly known as Dominion Resources, Inc. Dominion Energy, Inc. was incorporated in 1983 and is headquartered in Richmond, Virginia.
Medtronic PLC is a world-leading medical technology company that develops and manufactures device-based medical therapies to improve patient outcomes. Founded in 1949 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Medtronic has grown to become one of the largest medical device companies in the world. The company's operational and executive headquarters are in Dublin, Ireland, with over 90,000 employees in more than 150 countries.



Medtronic's portfolio of medical technologies includes products for diagnosing, treating and managing cardiac rhythm disorders and cardiovascular disease, spinal and biologics, diabetes management and neuromodulation. The company's cardiac and vascular group is the oldest and largest business unit, which develops pacemakers, defibrillators and heart valves. Medtronic's spinal and biologics business is the second-largest business unit and produces a range of implants, instruments and services to treat spinal disorders. The diabetes group develops insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitoring systems and consumables. At the same time, the neuromodulation business focuses on therapies to treat chronic pain, movement disorders and other neurological conditions.



In 2015, Medtronic acquired Covidien PLC, an Irish-based medical technology company, and moved its legal headquarters to Ireland. This transaction was the most significant U.S. corporate tax inversion in history and allowed the company to take advantage of lower corporate taxes in Ireland. The company also achieved a 100% gender and ethnically diverse pay equity in the U.S. and 99% gender pay equity globally, as reported in its Global Inclusion, Diversity and Equity 2022 annual report. Medtronic joined the Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index (GEI) in 2023, becoming one of the 483 companies listed in the index.



Medtronic's stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol MDT and is a member of the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA). The company has had several recent recalls, including the HeartWare Ventricular Assist Device in February 2021 and the controller ports in June 2021.



Medtronic has continued to focus on developing its medical technology portfolio and announced several acquisitions and partnerships in 2021. In January, the company announced its intention to acquire Affera, Inc., Stimgenics LLC and Medicrea. In May, Medtronic announced a strategic partnership with CathWorks, and in March 2022, a contract with Vizient. The company is also working with GE Healthcare to support the needs and care demands at Ambulatory Surgery Centers in April 2022. In October 2022, Medtronic announced its intention to pursue a separation of the company's combined patient monitoring and respiratory interventions businesses.



Medtronic PLC is a world-leading medical technology company that has grown to become one of the largest medical device companies in the world. With its portfolio of medical technologies and recent acquisitions and partnerships, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on the growth of the medical device industry. The company's commitment to gender and ethnic pay equity and inclusion and its strategic partnerships and acquisitions make Medtronic PLC an attractive option for investors looking for a long-term growth opportunity.
9 hours ago

Exxon Mobil or Chevron? Which is the better buy?

The answer to whether Exxon Mobil (NYSE: XOM) or Chevron (NYSE: CVX) is a better buy is relative. Exxon was clearly the better buy for investors before the Q3 results were released, but now that those results are in, the tables have turned. While the 2 reported roughly in alignment with each other and analysts targets, there is something wrong with Chevron. Chevrons results highlight why it acquired Hess Corporation and catalyzed a buying opportunity for investors. The takeaway is that Chevron has some hurdles to

Read Article
Portland General Electric (NYSE:POR) pays an annual dividend of $1.90 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 4.79%. POR has a dividend yield higher than 75% of all dividend-paying stocks, making it a leading dividend payer. The company has been increasing its dividend for 17 consecutive years, indicating the company has a strong committment to maintain and grow its dividend. The dividend payout ratio is 85.97%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on earnings estimates, POR will have a dividend payout ratio of 61.29% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend.

Read our dividend analysis for POR.
The iPhone belonging to Galina Timchenko, a prominent Russian journalist and critic of the government, was compromised with NSO Group's Pegasus spyware, a new collaborative investigation from Access Now and the Citizen Lab has revealed.

The infiltration is said to have happened on or around February 10, 2023. Timchenko is the executive editor and owner of Meduza, an independent news publication based in Latvia.

It's currently not clear who deployed the malware on the device. The Washington Post reported that the Russian government is not a client of NSO Group, citing an unnamed person familiar with the company's operations.

"During the infection her device was localized to the GMT+1 timezone, and she reports being in Berlin, Germany," the Citizen Lab said. "The day following the infection she was scheduled to attend a private meeting with other heads of Russian independent media exiled in Europe to discuss how to manage threats and censorship by Putin's regime."

The breach was facilitated by means of a zero-click exploit known as PWNYOURHOME that came to light in April 2023, and which combines iOS' HomeKit and iMessage to defeat BlastDoor protections.

The findings come after Timchenko received a threat notification from Apple on June 23, 2023, that state-sponsored attackers may have targeted her iPhone.

The development marks the first documented case where the notorious spyware has been planted on the phone of a Russian target. Pegasus, developed by the Israel-based NSO Group, is a powerful spying tool capable of harvesting sensitive information from infected handsets.

It can be installed on a phone remotely without the victim clicking a link or taking other action, a technique known as a zero-click exploit. While Pegasus is ostensibly licensed to governments and law enforcement agencies to tackle serious crime, it has been repeatedly misused to eavesdrop on members of the civil society.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) said "journalists and their sources are not free and safe if they are spied on, and this attack on Timchenko underscores that governments must implement an immediate moratorium on the development, sale, and use of spyware technologies."

News of the spyware infection also arrives days after Apple rushed to patch two zero-day exploits in iOS that have been weaponized in the wild to distribute Pegasus. Users who are at heightened risk of spyware attacks are recommended to enable Lockdown Mode on iPhones to mitigate such threats.
Omaha newspaper publisher Ben Salazar, formerly of Nuestro Mundo will present Latinos: Searching for the Good Life in Nebraska at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17, to kick of the Grand Island Public Librarys celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Salazar uses his experiences as a Latino who was born and raised in Nebraska, as well as other experiences such as his participation as an activist during the 1960s and 70s, to educate others about Latino issues in the state. Salazar says, our (Latinos) role as members of American society continues to intrigue me.

Salazar is a native of Scottsbluff. He earned his bachelors degree in sociology and his juris doctorate degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Salazar is a Chicano activist, having worked with Nebraska organizers of farm workers since the late 1960s. He has worked with such diverse organizations as Legal Aid in Phoenix, where he represented the elderly and disabled; Lincoln Action Program; Chicanos por la causa; the public defenders office; and the Arizona attorney generals office. He is the former publisher of Nuestro Mundo, a Spanish-English newspaper in Omaha. He is also a mediator and continues in his role as an advocate for Latinos and Spanish-speaking people.

Latinos: Searching for the Good Life in Nebraska is one of approximately 300 programs offered through the Humanities Nebraska Speakers Bureau. The more than 165 available speakers include acclaimed scholars, writers, musicians, storytellers and folklorists on topics ranging from pioneer heritage to ethics and law to international and multicultural issues, making it the largest humanities speakers bureau in the nation.

For information detailing the available speakers and guidelines for booking them, please access our website at www.humanitiesnebraska.org (Speakers section) or contact Humanities Nebraska at 215 Centennial Mall South, Suite 330, Lincoln, NE 68508, phone 402-474-2131, or email info@humanitiesnebraska.org.

The Grand Island Public Library is located at 1124 W. Second St. For more information about the librarys program call 308-385-5333.
A longtime Grand Island educator who made his mark on the city in multiple ways has died.

Gerald Jerry Bryant, 98, died on Friday from complications from COVID-19.

Bryant was an educator for 39 years, 35 of those with Grand Island Public Schools. He started as a teacher, before becoming a principal and then an administrator in the district.

He always told me Education is something you can never take away from a person, his daughter, Carol Bryant, said on Tuesday.

Jerry Bryant moved to Grand Island in the fall of 1952, according to his obituary, taking a position as a fifth-grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary School. He became principal there in 1955 and then shifted to a curriculum coordinator position with the district. In 1975, he was named assistant superintendent, a role he held until his retirement in 1987.

He had to be one of the best administrators and best mentors Ive known in my entire life, said Joe Cook, who Bryant hired as principal at West Lawn Elementary in 1968. Just a very conscientious educator, who was always looking for the right thing to do for students.

Jerry Bryant worked with then-Lincoln Elementary Principal Susan Wiese to establish Head Start in Grand Island at Howard and Lincoln Elementaries, his daughter noted.

Per his obituary: He served on a committee in 1954 to examine K-12 physical education, resulting in hiring a K-12 P.E. director who developed a K-12 curriculum. A high-quality program was developed. He started K-6 parent-teacher conferences in 1961.

Bryant developed educational specifications and helped plan three new elementary schools: Knickrehm, Jefferson, and Starr Elementary Schools, and helped plan additions to Knickrehm, Newell, Gates, and Howard Elementary Schools.

In 1961, he introduced an indexed salary schedule to the Board of Education that was adopted after a two-year study. This resulted in a competitive salary schedule that encouraged pursuing a graduate education.

The Furnas County native  his family farmed near Hendley and Indianola at various stages during his youth  developed relationships with professors at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Doane College and Hastings College, as well as other colleges, for students to complete student teaching in Grand Island.

He enjoyed touching the lives of students and teachers, Carol Bryant said.

Carol Bryant noted her father served under five GIPS superintendents, and during that time was the glue that held the district together because of his longevity.

Jerry Bryant was a member of numerous professional organizations and was chairman of the committee that founded the Nebraska Council of School Administrators. He edited an educational magazine called Gee, I Know How for Grand Island Public Schools from 1957 to 1962.

And, his daughter said, he was very proud in retirement to write a 250-page history of Grand Island Public Schools that covered 1955 to 1991. A copy is available to read at the Grand Island Public Library and the family hopes to secure more copies so it can be checked out.

Also in retirement Jerry Bryant dedicated himself to serving his community, joining various nonprofit boards, which is something he had not had time to do when he was working, Carol Bryant noted.

Bryant served on the library board for 10 years, including four as president, and was instrumental in a project that doubled the size of the library. He never stopped being committed to education.

In his own life, he had worked very hard to achieve an education, Carol Bryant said, noting that as a youngster he walked more than a mile each way for country school and he rode a horse 2 miles each way to Havana High School.

He started at McCook Community College in 1942 and finished in 1947, taking off time in between to help on the family farm. He attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln from 1949 until 1952 and then stayed for his masters, receiving that in 1956. He took doctoral classes at the University of Northern Colorado-Greeley from 1958 to 1964 and completed everything but his dissertation.

Carol Bryant noted her fathers college career was jump-started by a $50 scholarship to McCook. The Geddes-Bryant Family Scholarship is now offered through the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.

I cant say enough about Jerry. A good mentor and an excellent friend of mine, Cook said, noting he spoke to Bryant a few weeks before his passing. Ill miss him.
The best bang for your buck! This option enables you to purchase online 24/7 access and receive the Sunday, Tuesday & Thursday print edition at no additional cost * Print edition only available in our carrier delivery area. Allow up to 72 hours for delivery of your print edition to begin. To sign-up for EZ-Pay, call us at (903) 785-6901 or e-mail us at circulation@theparisnews.com. We will use the information you provide to change your current billing to EZ-PAY. Your current subscription delivery schedule will not be changed. No refunds for early cancellations. Remainder of early cancellation funds will be donated to Newspapers in Education.
A new Illinois law that seeks to deter book bans and restrictions in public schools and libraries came under the scrutiny of a U.S. Senate panel Tuesday during a hearing that revealed stark partisan divisions over education and parental responsibility while also raising questions about the federal role in what is traditionally an area of local control.

Democratic Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who championed the law, was questioned by the committees ranking Republican, Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, who initially sought to change the subject of the hearing to immigration policy under President Joe Biden before returning to the issue of book policy.

What is our role here? What am I supposed to do? Am I supposed to take over every school board in the country and veto their decisions about what books go into public schools? Graham asked.

Am I supposed to, as a United States senator, take over the libraries across this country and be the final say of what goes in a library? I hope not. I think not, Graham said. So this is an important hearing in this regard: It shows the difference of the two parties on this issue.

Giannoulias said Illinois first in the nation law, which makes public libraries ineligible for state grants if they restrict or ban materials because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval, could become a template for legislation in other states. The law, which takes effect Jan. 1, also requires public libraries to adopt the American Library Associations bill of rights.

Tragically, our libraries have become the thunderdomes of controversy and strife across our nation, the likes of which have never been seen before. These radical attacks on our libraries have divided our communities and our librarians have been threatened and intimidated for simply doing their jobs, said Giannoulias, whose office also makes him state librarian.

This right-to-read legislation will help remove the pressure that libraries have tragically had to endure over the last couple of years, he said. This legislation is important because both the concept and practice of banning books contradicts the very essence of what our country stands for and what our democracy was founded on. It also defines what education is all about: Teaching our children to think for themselves.

In addition to warning of threats made to librarians, Giannoulias told senators that several libraries in the Chicago suburbs were forced to close a few weeks ago due to bomb threats. Only hours after his testimony, it happened again, with bomb threats reportedly made to the Harold Washington Public Library in Chicago and to libraries in Addison, Aurora, Evanston, Hanover Park, Schaumburg and Streamwood.

In signing the anti-book ban bill in June, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said there were 67 attempts to ban books in the state last year, based on figures from the Chicago-based American Library Association. There were 1,477 instances of books being banned nationwide during the first half of the 2022-23 school year, affecting 874 individual titles, according to PEN America, a group that advocates for free expression in literature.

The legislation moved ahead this spring after sometimes contentious and ostensibly nonpartisan local school and library board races in Illinois featured efforts by conservative slates, sometimes with help from national groups, to push an agenda focused on removing controversial materials. The state Democratic Party funded efforts to defeat those candidates and most were rebuffed by voters.

Democrats and Republicans at Tuesdays hearing agreed that children should not be able to obtain age-inappropriate materials. But Republicans said parents have a right to speak out and represent community standards in arguing to remove controversial books. They also contended no books were being banned because they are still available in the public marketplace.

Nicole Neily, a Republican witness from Arlington, Virginia, and president of Parents Defending Education, contended her group and others challenging books and library materials were being victimized.

Every time a parent is falsely accused of wanting to ban a book because of reasonable concerns about subject matter appropriateness, neighbors are pitted against each other based on dishonest premises, Neily said. This is a deliberate attempt to demonize parents and to chill both their speech and activism.

Senior U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., who chairs the Judiciary Committee and led the hearing, noted that specific states have sought to remove books involving race or sexual identity under threat of fine or imprisonment. He said no one is advocating making sexually explicit material available to young children and said any argument to the contrary served as a distraction from the real challenge.

I understand and respect that parents may choose to limit what their children read, especially at younger ages, Durbin said. But no parent should have the right to tell another parents child what they can and cannot read in school or at home. Every student deserves access to books that reflect their experiences and help them better understand who they are.

Republican Sen. John Kennedy of Louisiana, after reading sexually graphic portions of two books, asked Giannoulias exactly what he was advocating for.

Who gets to decide and all Ive heard is the librarians and the parents have nothing to do with it, Kennedy said. And if thats your response, what planet did you just parachute in from? Or what country, more appropriately? This is not China.

We are advocating for parents, random parents, not to have the ability under the guise of keeping kids safe to try and challenge the worldview of every single manner on these issues, Giannoulias said in response. Senator, with all due respect, parents absolutely have a say.

Kennedy then accused Giannoulias of political grandstanding.

I understand this is good for your politics back home, the senator said, prompting Giannoulias to respond, Its got nothing to do with my politics. My bill has passed.

Shortly after the committee adjourned, Giannoulias political team sent out a fundraising appeal to supporters asking, Will you rush a donation right now to take a stand against extreme book bans?

The top 10 most challenged books in America 1. 'George' by Alex Gino 2. 'Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You' by Ibram X. Kendi and Jason Reynolds 3. 'All American Boys' by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely 4. 'Speak' by Laurie Halse Anderson 5. 'The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian' by Sherman Alexie 6. 'Something Happened in Our Town: A Childs Story About Racial Injustice' by Marianne Celano, Marietta Collins, and Ann Hazzard, illustrated by Jennifer Zivoin 7. 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee 8. 'Of Mice and Men' by John Steinbeck 9.'The Bluest Eye' by Toni Morrison 10 .'The Hate U Give' by Angie Thomas
The watchdog overseeing agencies under Gov. J.B. Pritzker has referred 177 cases to law enforcement in which there was reasonable cause to believe a state worker improperly obtained a federal pandemic business relief loan, according to a report released last week.

The specifics of the alleged fraud likely wont be known until reports on those cases are issued, a process than can take months. But the Office of Executive Inspector General said in its monthly newsletter that an investigation which began last year focused on loans from the federal Paycheck Protection Program for about $20,000 or more. Loans of that amount typically were issued to businesses with about $100,000 or more in annual net profits or gross income, according to the inspector general.

Nearly all of the more than 11 millions loans issued nationwide through the Small Business Administration have been forgiven.

The state IG, which found allegedly fraudulent loans totaling $4.5 million, used publicly available data on the widely used, and often abused, federal program to match loans to state employees, and then conducted investigations to determine if those loans were obtained by fraudulent means.

As of Tuesday, the office had completed 204 of the 438 investigations it had opened.

To date, the vast majority of the founded cases  132  have been among employees at the state Department of Human Services. The agency with the next highest total, the Department of Children and Family Services, had 25 cases.

The Department of Human Services already has been under fire for its handling of allegations of abuse and neglect of residents at the Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center in downstate Anna, leading Pritzker to announce a multiyear repurposing plan for the facility.

The governor last week announced he is promoting Human Services Secretary Grace Hou to be one of his deputy governors. She will replace departing Deputy Gov. Sol Flores next month in a position overseeing all of the states health and human services agencies and programs. Hou will be paid $310,079  $171,079 by state taxpayers and another $139,000 from the billionaire governors personal fortune.

In response to questions about the allegations of rampant PPP fraud at the Department of Human Services, Pritzker spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh called Hou an exemplary public servant who has served with integrity and has taken every available step to ensure employees who have engaged in personal misconduct are held accountable.

Falsifying a federal loan document, for significant and improper personal gain, calls into question the individuals character, honesty, and ability to act ethically, but it does not have bearing on the character of the person leading an agency where those people work, Abudayyeh wrote in an email.

All agency employees who are facing fraud allegations were hired through a process that prohibits direct input from the head of the department, Abudayyeh said.

Pritzker recently signed a law extending the statute of limitations to prosecute these crimes because he believes bad actors should be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law, she said.

It is despicable that some state employees chose to lie to the federal government for their personal gain, but they are now being held accountable for those choices, Abudayyeh said.

The IGs newsletter notes that the State of Illinois Code of Personal Conduct requires state employees to conduct themselves with integrity and in a manner that reflects favorably upon the state. In addition, various agency policies prohibit employees from engaging in conduct that is unbecoming of a state employee.

A spokesman for the Department of Human Services said as of Tuesday, 66 employees had been fired, face pending termination or have resigned as a result of PPP fraud allegations. That includes 43 employees at Ludeman Developmental Center in southwest suburban Park Forest, 13 at Shapiro Developmental Center in Kankakee, five at Kiley Developmental Center in Waukegan and five at other locations.

Department spokesman Patrick Laughlin called the fraud findings deeply concerning but said the vast majority of IDHS roughly 14,000 state employees are hardworking people of strong character who work tirelessly to help the most vulnerable.

Since IDHS was notified of staff involvement in PPP loan fraud, we have been working to hire more staff, Laughlin said in an email. IDHS also made schedule changes and is supplementing with agency support until positions are filled.

Capitol News Illinois first reported last month on fraud allegations among staff at Ludeman and the IGs ongoing investigation of dozens of employees under its purview.

The IGs office said it is required to report any case involving alleged misconduct resulting in the loss of $5,000 or more in public funds to the Illinois attorney generals office.

The attorney generals office did not respond to questions about the status of its investigations into the alleged fraud.

Fraud in the PPP program has been a widespread problem at government agencies, with Cook County, the Chicago Housing Authority and others facing allegations of fraud by their employees.

Photos: Pritzker sworn in for second term Jesse White.JPG JB Piitzker 13 010923.JPG JB Piitzker 12 010923.JPG JB Piitzker 11 010923.JPG JB Piitzker 10 010923.JPG JB Piitzker 9 010923.JPG JB Piitzker 7 010923.JPG JB Piitzker 5 010923.JPG JB Piitzker 3 010923.JPG JB Piitzker 2 010923.JPG JB Piitzker 1 010923.JPG Juliana Stratton 1 010923.JPG Stratton 2 010923.JPG Alex Giannoulias 1 010923.JPG Alex Giannoulias 2 010923.JPG Michael Frerichs 010923.JPG 011023-illinois-ball 011023-illinois-ball 011023-illinois-ball 011023-illinois-ball 011023-illinois-ball 011023-illinois-ball Tiffany Mathis 1 011023.JPG dance gov 7 010923.JPG dance gov 13 010923.JPG dance gov 12 010923.JPG dance gov 11 010923.JPG dance gov 10 010923.JPG dance gov 9 010923.JPG dance gov 8 010923.JPG
Claflin Universitys Matriculation Day Convocation featured a challenge for the incoming freshman as well as updates on future plans for the university.

Tuesdays ceremony formally welcomed the freshman Class of 2027 to the university and was the 155th such ceremony in the universitys history.

University President Dr. Dwaun Warmack said the Class of 2026 had a retention rate of over 80% for students returning to school after their freshman year, the highest the school has seen in around two decades.

He challenged the Class of 2027 to beat that percentage, as well as listen to the advice of upperclassmen.

Freshmen, the mentoring you will receive from them will make a difference in your college career, he said. Listen to your upperclassmen. They have a message for you.

The university will soon announce its 13th consecutive year of being ranked among the top ten historically Black colleges and universities in the nation, Warmack said.

It takes a village, and Claflin is a village, he said. You hear all the time that were a family. Thats not just rhetoric. Thats something we believe in.

Warmack also shared some details of how the university is investing in infrastructure to improve the student experience, including the upcoming world-class student center.

He said the student center is the result of conversations with former student body president Kayla Hodges,

If it wasnt for her vision, we wouldnt be building that building now, Warmack said. What legacy will you leave, Class of 2027, when you leave this institution?

Ground was broken on the $30 million student center on March 22, 2022. Plans include a theater, performing arts center, 800-seat ballroom, eSports center, meeting and conference rooms and a food court with national, name-brand eateries.

Warmack also thanked Claflin alumni for surpassing the $1 million fundraising goal the university set for student scholarships this year. He said the universitys percentage of alumni who donate  40%  leads HBCUs in the nation.

The ceremony also included performances by Claflins Concert Choir, remarks by Virginia Union University President and CEO Dr. Hakim Lucas and the installation of student government officers.
DENMARK  Dr. Ronnie Hopkins, president of Voorhees University, delivered the keynote address during the institutions 127th Opening Convocation on Sept. 7.

He highlighted the universitys history, celebrated its founder, Elizabeth Evelyn Wright, and emphasized the pursuit of excellence the Wright way.

In pursuit of the next level of excellence  the Wright way was the central theme of the address, emphasizing Wrights legacy.

Hopkins discussed the challenges faced by African Americans during Wrights time and her determination to establish a school for African Americans when formal educational opportunities were scarce.

Hopkins highlighted Wrights dedication to education and her role as an educator, administrator and entrepreneur. He underscored her vision and collaboration with the Episcopal Church, which has supported Voorhees University for nearly a century, as instrumental in the institutions growth.

Dear Voorhees University family, as we continue in pursuit of the next level of excellence, we must remain committed to approach our goals the Wright way, Hopkins said.

He emphasized the importance of inspiration, determination, imagination, faith and high expectations for Voorhees Universitys future.

Students, faculty, staff, senior leadership team, Board of Trustees members and alumni alike, we have each been called at Voorhees University, he said. We share this space at Voorhees University as we are in the Wright place, at the Wright time to carry on the pursuit of the next level of excellence the Wright way, he continued.

Hopkins challenged the Voorhees University community to strive for excellence in all endeavors.

He cited Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.s words, No work is insignificant. All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.
ROWESVILLE -- Minority farmers from throughout the Southeast descended upon Orangeburg County Sept. 8 to network and share techniques in crop management and learn about new technologies and crop varieties.

About 200 to 300 individuals, including farmers and agricultural organization members, attended the National Black Grower's Council model farm field day and took a tour of three farms owned by Mahogany Farms LLC Rowesville farmer Antron Williams.

"It is about networking and sharing information about different technologies learning about different chemicals and chemistry on crops," NBGC Assistant Chairman Dexter Gilbert said. "It is great networking for the farm community as a whole."

Gilbert, a third-generation farmer who farms about 5,800 acres of cotton and peanuts, traveled all the way from the Panhandle of Florida to attend the NBGC's sixth field day of the year and the first one ever in South Carolina.

Attendees hailed from 10 to 12 states, including Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Virginia, Kentucky and Texas.

National Black Farmers Council Lawrence Conyers, and Arkansas-based farmer, left, and Rowesville area farmer Antron Williams, right, inspect the new features on a John Deere

The NBGC is a group of multigenerational producers who advocate for the best interests of Black farmers locally, statewide and nationally. The group promotes agriculture in the United States and abroad. The NBGC began in 2006 and field days have been held by the organization since 2010.

The NBGC Board of Directors consists of 12 farmers who operate farms in 11 Southern states from Virginia to Texas. Collectively, the board farms nearly 60,000 acres of row crops.

Gilbert said networking is the most important thing for the minority farmer, who can often face challenges especially when it comes to access of capital and finding good land to lease or purchase.

"Minority landowners have dropped over the years tremendously," Gilbert said. "If you didn't inherit the farm or marry into it, it is very tough."

"There is help there if you can get qualified for it," Gilbert said. "You have to go through the process to get there. It has gotten better over the years.

Williams said it was his honor to host the farmers throughout the Southeast. He farms about 550 acres of corn, cotton, soybeans and sorghum. It is all non-irrigated.

National Black Farmers Council The National Black Growers Council held a Model Farm Series/Farm Field Day at local NBGC member Antron Williams' Mahogany Farms LLC in Rowesville.

"This gives an opportunity for Black farmers to network with other Black farmers and to network with industry folks," Williams said. "With us farming, networking is so key."

Williams, 40, said as a first-generation farmer, he is proof that farming can be done. He has been farming since 2005.

"It has not been easy, but it is doable," Williams said. "Whatever your goals are, set out a plan and go forward even if somebody says it is impossible. If you really want to do it, you can work at it and do it."

As part of the field day tour, farmers were able to learn about the different corn varieties and the impact of fungicide applications on crop yields and management.

Farmers were also able to learn about technologies related to John Deere in tractors, planters and row-crop sprayers. Farmers were also able to visit a soybean field and learn more about soybean varieties and herbicide and fungicide applications.

Farm Credit System Chief Credit Officer Isaac Bennett, who lives in Texas but is originally from South Carolina, hosted the tour in partnership with the NBGC. The Farm Credit System and the NBGC have had a partnership for a decade.

"Orangeburg County is really where I started my career," Bennett said. "For me this has kind of been full circle."

IN PHOTOS: National Black Growers Council takes tour of Rowesville farms National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour National Black Growers Council Farm Tour

Bennett holds a masters degree in agribusiness from South Carolina State University and still owns property in Orangeburg. He hosted a dinner for the visiting farmers the night before the field day.

Bennett said one of the reasons the NBGC wanted to come to South Carolina is an opportunity for membership growth.

"There are probably a number of minority farmers in the area that are just not familiar with the National Black Growers Council," Bennett said. "They do a good job of educating and supporting. Some farms are large and some are small."

Bennett expressed pleasure at seeing 24 high school students from the South Carolina Governor's School of Agriculture in attendance.

"We know the average age of farmers is getting on up there," Bennett said. "Here this is a group of young people who obviously have shown some interest in agriculture and hopefully we are cultivating the next generation."

Bennett said the unique challenge facing minority farmers is access to capital.

"Just understanding the process, what information is needed putting together a financial plan, laying out budgets and goals," Bennett said. "It is expensive. It is not a very inexpensive job. You look at this equipment, the costs of purchasing the land is not easy."

Bennett said FCS does have a young beginners and small farmer program.

"The whole idea is to network with an organization like this so they can tell us what their needs and maybe we can customize some programs that will help them to sustain agriculture," Bennett said.

Jaquez Perry, 2022 graduate of the South Carolina Governor's School of Agriculture, continues to work on his family farm in Georgia while currently a student at South Carolina State University.

The 20-year-old grows about 800 acres of corn, cotton, soybeans and peanuts. The family also raises cows.

"I wanted to see what they had to say about farming and make growers a lot better," Perry said, noting during the tour he learned more about different corn products and soybean spray treatments. He is hoping to bring what he learns back to his farm in Georgia.

"I was born into farming; I guess it was just natural," Perry said when asked how his education at the Governor's School helped him.

Trip Steigarwald, who currently is also a student at the Governor's School, came on the field day as part of a discovery mission.

Steigarwald has been at the Governor's School since 2022. He is on the environmental natural resources track through the college with plans for entry into forestry.

Steigarwald said going on the field day has also helped broaden his horizons.

"Agriculture is so much bigger and to say to only focus on natural resources would be very narrow-minded having a wide view of what is currently happening is important to me especially," he said. "Going out on this farm tour, I am able to see what is being grown and how I can help with that or maybe I can offer someone else more advice on that."

Gregory Jenkins, who grew up on his grandparents' family rice farm in Green Pond, now wants to transform the once-active farm into a 100-acre horse ranch -- Franklin and Bell Legacy Farm.

Currently he has five horses.

"I am rebuilding what my grandparents started as far as farming in Green Pond," he said. "I love horses."

Jenkins flew in from Austin, Texas, to participate in the tour.

Jenkins came to the event to learn more about planting crops such as hay and grass to serve as feed for his horses.

"Meeting folks and hopefully they will help share about how to keep the ground fertile to get started," Jenkins said. "I know the basics, but as far as the technical aspects of it I just want to gain more information."

"Farmers are the backbone of our economy," Sen. Vernon Stephens, D-Bowman, said, noting that as a representative of rural South Carolina counties, he has a "passion" for farmers.

"Your worth does not go unnoticed. There are a number of us who will keep agriculture in the forefront as we legislate on a daily basis."

Stephens, who farmed during high school through 2002, says, "I have a love for the farm." He is concerned about the plight of farmers, especially small farmers.

"We have too many folks who are actually selling the farmland for manufacturing, for housing developments," Stephens said. "In order for us to continue to feed South Carolina, feed America, we are going to have to come up with some kind of moratorium on selling land. I hope it never gets to that. Our farmers should have that option of determining what they can and what they can't do with their land."

Stephens said he is pleased with the state being able to host the event. South Carolina has been looking at different pieces of legislation that will help ease the burden or red tape for farmers in getting needed loans.

"How can we retain the family farm?" he said. "We can never forget about farmers."
(TBTCO) - Nam 2023 la mot nam ay song gio oi voi trai phieu kho bac My. Tam iem chu y cua thi truong tai chinh toan cau se at vao tuan toi, luc 8:30 sang gio New York ngay 1/11 khi Bo Tai chinh My cong bo ke hoach phat hanh trai phieu trong nhung thang toi. Du lieu nay se cho biet kha nang cua thi truong trong viec hap thu nguon cung trai phieu ra sao. Cung ngay, FED cung cong bo quyet inh lai suat trong cuoc hop dien ra ngay 31/10 - 1/11.
Lecture on Cole Creek train disaster

The Fort Caspar Museum Association is pleased to announce its Fall Lunch & Learn program. It will be held from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 23, and will feature local historian and author Con Trumbull who will discuss the Cole Creek Train Wreck that occurred just east of Casper 100 years ago.

On an unusually stormy September evening in 1923, 69 passengers boarded train No. 30. Departing the Burlington Depot in downtown Casper, the train was scheduled to reach Denver, Colorado, the following morning. Just an hour into its voyage, disaster struck: the locomotive and most of the passenger cars plummeted through the dark night into a void left by the washed-out Cole Creek Bridge. The result was Wyomings worst passenger rail disaster.

Con Trumbull, president of the Fort Caspar Museum Association, is a fifth generation Wyoming rancher from Casper. His love of history and railroads led him to the Nevada Northern Railway in Ely, Nevada, where he is the Trainmaster as well as the Archivist. He brings first-hand knowledge of operating century-old steam locomotives and passenger cars to provide a unique insight into the Cole Creek Wreck. He co-authored Images of America: Casper and was the author for Images of Rail: Central Wyoming Railroads as well as a childrens book series The Adventures of Dirt the Shop Cat.

An optional lunch will be served at 12:00 p.m., followed by the lecture at 1:00 p.m. Reservations are required for the lunch and must be made by Sept. 21 (call 235-8462). The cost for lunch is $5 for FCMA members and $8 for non-members; the lecture is free with paid lunch or free with paid Museum admission. The lunch will feature a buffet of fried chicken, sides, dessert, and beverages.

For more information, call the Museum at 307-235-8462, or visit our website at fortcasparwyoming.com. Fort Caspar Museum is located in Casper at 4001 Fort Caspar Road.

Wild Horses in Wyoming topic of Audubon Talk

Chad Hanson, Casper College sociology instructor and wild horse advocate will be the guest speaker for the Murie Audubon Sept. 14 program. Hanson is the co-founder of the Wyoming Mustang Institute. My wife, Lynn, and I founded the institute, which works through research and education to ensure healthy and stable wild horse populations on public land, he said.

He spends time with wild horses about three or four times a month during the school year and even more in the summertime. He said that he and his wife pitch a canvas teepee on the prairie for two to three days and make a home base looking for wild horses from there.

Hanson recently finished writing, In a Land of Awe: Finding Reverence in the Search for Wild Horses. In the book, he raises a series of questions. For example, what is a wild animal? How do feelings of reverence reconnect us with nature? And in the end, what would it look like if we managed public land with the common good in mind? In a recent review, the Library Journal described the work this way:

 this book is often philosophical and engagingly aesthetic, yet supported by research and historical information ... highly recommended.

The public and Audubon members are invited to come to the Murie Audubon free talk on Sept. 14, 2023, at 7 p.m., at the Izaak Walton Clubhouse, at 4205 Fort Caspar Road.

Grief share at Highland Park

Grief Share will be held at Highland Park Community Church, 5725 Highland Drive in Casper.

The group will begin Tuesday, Oct. 3 At 6:30 p.m. in Room 1331 and will run for 13 weeks.

There is a $20 fee for the workbook but scholarships are available

For more information please call, Susan Propp at 970-691-0754 or The Healing Place 265-3977

The Science Zone  AmeriCorps

Do you have a heart for service? Do you want to kick-start your career? Do you want to build your employment skills? Are you retired and have a desire to serve?

You could help provide educational programming in classrooms in before and after school programs, community outreach activities, and summer camps. We have many ideas of how you could help us do outreach.

Members will have flexible scheduling options, flexible commitment levels and will be provided with training. Service commitments range from 300 hours to 1200 hours that can be served over the course of a few months to a full year. In addition to stipends and education awards, becoming part of the AmeriCorps community brings lifelong connections and benefits. Join us as an AmeriCorp member by going to thesciencezone.org or call us at (307) 473-9663 for more information.

Women in the Word

Women in the Word Bible Study is a non-denominational bible study for any woman., regardless of age, background or faith, who wants to grow in Gods Word and learn and share with others. We resumed the Bible Study year Sept. 14 at Highland Park with the regular time of 9:15 am to 11:00 am. Please call Angela with any questions 207-267-8061. Free childcare is provided for children ages 0-5 years of age.

Continuum of Care looking for members, input

The Wyoming Homeless Continuum of Care held their statewide annual meeting at the Fort Caspar Museum on June 29.

The group had a packed agenda including guest speakers from the Institute of Community Alliances looking at racial disparity in the Wyoming Homeless population, LGBTQ and diversity from Casper PRIDE, the Wyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the Unaccompanied Students Initiative, and the Statewide Coordinated Entry System, for accessing and prioritization of high vulnerability, literally homeless clients. The group also held an interactive activity to determine gaps in services and barriers to housing statewide. Attendees were encouraged and invited to sign up for numerous committees (Data Quality, Membership and Outreach, Coordinated Entry, Rank and Review, and Point in Time) and to apply to become a board member.

The WY CoC is looking for additional members and input from communities statewide to partner to address the issues surrounding homelessness in Wyoming. For more information and to register to be a member or join the mailing list please visit: wyomingwhc.org

About Wyoming Continuum of CareThe WY CoC is a membership driven, planning, and oversight body for Wyoming. The purpose of the CoC is to develop and implement strategies to ensure that homelessness in Wyoming is rare, brief, and non-recurring. The CoC coordinates each communitys policies, strategies, and activities, and is tasked with gathering and analyzing data to determine the local needs of people experiencing homelessness, identifying, and bridging gaps in housing and services, implementing systemic responses to homelessness, educating the community on issues related to homelessness, providing support and technical assistance on the operations of homeless services, and measuring CoC system performance.

River of Life events

Calling all visual artists! The Center for Kingdom Creatives is hosting our Affinity Group meetings for visual arts. Join us on the 4th Tuesday each month from 5 PM to 7 PM at Cascade Coffeeshop (2955 East 2nd Street). Our next meeting is 2/28. Well have activities, demonstrations, time for creating, and be planning upcoming events and art shows!

Calling all writers! The Center for Kingdom Creatives presents the Literary Art Affinity Group at Cascade Coffee Shop. Bring your work to share, work on, constructively critique, bring resources to share, and invite fellow writers to join the fun! Well also be planning future events, conferences, workshops, and more!

We meet every month on the third Thursday at 7 p.m. at 2955 East 2nd Street, Casper, WY 82609. Our next meeting is 2/16. Call (307) 369-5433 or contact riveroflife307@gmail.com, or go to www.riveroflife.family for more details.

Writers conference at River of Life

Join Kingdom Creatives Literary Arts Affinity Group for the first annual, two-day event: Fall Into Books Writers Conference is at River of Life Church from 5:30 to 8 p.m., Friday, Sept. 29, and from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 30. The event features six guest speakers presenting on Keeping the Muse, Improving Craft, Editing, Business/Taxes, and Marketing; time for networking; local author book signing; and childrens book authors Q&A panel. $75 entry fee includes lunch. $65 Early Bird Registration by Aug. 22!

Central Wyoming Hospice joins nonprofit collaboration

Central Wyoming Hospice and Transitions is excited to announce our new membership to the National Partnership for Healthcare and Hospice Innovation (NPHI). NPHI is made up of more than 95 not-for-profit, community-integrated hospice and palliative care providers and is dedicated to ensuring patients and their families have access to high quality care at the last stages of life. Central Wyoming Hospice is the is the first NPHI member in Wyoming.

NPHI believes the end-of-life care patients and their families receive should reflect their individual goals, values, and preferences. Together, members across the country define the standards of hospice care and guide patients and families through that journey.

We joined NHPI because we believe that non-profit, community-based hospice providers historically have been and continue to be the leaders and the innovators in end-of-life care, said CWHT Executive Director Kilty Brown. Ultimately, NHPIs mission and values align closely with the type of care we provide daily.

NPHI members are committed to person-centered advanced illness care that ensures individuals can focus on quality and comfort at the last stage of life. Driven by patient and family needs  not profit  members work to fundamentally change how people and institutions view end-of-life care, and instead, help people live as well as possible until they die.

Women in Business Scholarship

The Zonta Club of Cheyenne is seeking applicants for its Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship. The selected applicant  who should demonstrate outstanding potential in her field of studywill receive a $1,000 scholarship. The Cheyenne Club scholarship recipient will then compete (without any additional paperwork required) with other Zonta Club scholarship recipients for an additional $6,000.

This scholarship is open to women of any age who are pursuing a business degree (including accounting, economics, finance, business management, business technology, information technology, marketing, operations management, human resources management, international business, or entrepreneurship) at an accredited university, college, or institute. Students must be enrolled in at least the second year of an undergraduate program through the final year of a masters program at the time the application is submitted. Applicants must not graduate before April 2024.

To receive the local Zonta Club of Cheyenne scholarship, the applicant must have graduated rom a Laramie County high school or have obtained a GED in Laramie County or currently be a student living in Laramie County. Those students interested in applying but without the tie to Laramie County may submit their application and it will be passed on to Zonta officials who will assure that it is considered for the appropriate regional/international scholarship.

Applications must be submitted no later than Aug. 1. It is preferred that the complete application be submitted at zonta.cheyenne@sgmail.com but they may also be sent to Zonta, P.O. Box 2135, Cheyenne, WY 82003. The application and additional details may be found at https://www.cheyennezonta.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/JMKApplication2023.pdf

Questions or additional inquiries may be sent to parrishzonta@gmail.com.
While there is an uptick in crime involving Caspers homeless population, the city is not overrun and is still a safe community, Police Chief Keith McPheeters told the Star-Tribune.

Theres been a great deal of media coverage alluding to homeless individuals tainting the safety and aesthetics of the city of Casper. This month, headlines ranged from The Daily Mail claiming ...Casper fights off a homeless invasion to the Toronto Sun comparing Casper to a THIRD WORLD COUNTRY.

It is monumentally hard to track, but common perception is the community is seeing more homeless people, McPheeters said. And there has been an increase in crime related to this population.

For example, Casper police arrested four people, who appeared to be homeless, on Sept. 9 for various crimes, McPheeters said. Those four accounted for 25% of all people booked into the Natrona County Detention Center that day. There is an increase in homeless related-calls, and downtown merchants are feeling it with shoplifting.

Homeless-related crime typically includes public intoxication, shoplifting, unlawful camping and sometimes violence, he said. The keyword being crime.

We are not prosecuting homelessness, McPheeters said.

Its important to remember that homelessness includes those who have lost their jobs, those who cant afford their mortgages and moved into a car, those who are couch surfing, those who have become addicted to drugs or are fleeing from abuse, McPheeters said. Its anyone who doesnt have a permanent address.

That person whose life has gone awry  they have nothing to fear from the Casper Police Department, McPheeters said. Those suffering with mental health and addiction, they, too, have nothing to fear from the Casper Police Department.

Some homeless individuals are criminals, vagrants or chronic street inebriates, McPheeters said. Others are Wyomingites, who are having a run of bad luck.

I wish we could separate the two, he said.

Recently, Casper police responded to a welfare check, he said. A mother was living in a truck with her two children. Officers offered them resources that aligned with their needs.

In the end, there was no enforcement done, McPheeters said. That is a completely different situation.

McPheeters showed a photograph of a tent in City Park, which was submitted to police. He understands why some people are upset, he said.

Its disturbing to people, who want to use city properties, he said. You dont want to see a tent when you take your family and kids to the park.

Casper police are dealing with the symptoms of this, but this doesnt mean the city has become an unsafe place to live or visit, McPheeters said.

There may be one or two tents in areas where there used to be none. There is homeless-related crime happening around Casper. Still, what we are hearing is an overstatement, he said.

Your news on your smartphone Your story lives in Wyoming, and our new mobile app is designed to make sure you dont miss breaking news, the latest scores, the weather forecast and more. From easy navigation with the swipe of a finger to personalized content based on your preferences to customized text sizes, the Star-Tribune app is built for you and your life. Dont have the app? Download it today from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
A 73-year-old Rawlins man allegedly shot two of his relatives, who have power of attorney over his finances, because he believed they were stealing his money.

Melvin Leon Bagley is facing two counts of attempted second-degree murder, two counts of aggravated assault and battery, reckless endangerment and reckless driving, a charging document shows.

Bagley is facing up to life in prison, if found guilty.

On Sept. 3, a Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper was dispatched to U.S. Route 287 in Carbon County for a report of a man with a gun, the affidavit in his case states.

It was reported that two people were shot and were being chased by the suspect, the affidavit states. It was reported the suspect was ramming the victims truck with his own truck as they tried to get away, [and] it was reported the suspect was still firing at them.

The victims were traveling in a silver pickup truck, and the suspect was reported to be driving a blue Ford pickup, the affidavit states.

After locating the victims vehicle, the trooper saw a male driver waiving his arm out of the window, the affidavit states. It appeared to be covered in blood.

The victims drove down the road towards an EMS staging area.

One person was taken by helicopter to Banner Wyoming Medical Center in Casper. The other was admitted to Memorial Hospital of Carbon County.

The trooper then located the suspects vehicle, which was parked on the shoulder of the road, the affidavit states. Bagley was allegedly sitting in the drivers seat with his hands hanging out of the window.

He was taken into custody without incident.

Bagley allegedly told authorities that the victims had been stealing money out of his bank account, and he told them to stop, the affidavit states.

He believed they hadnt stopped, so he went to confront them.

Defendant stated that they laughed at him and did not take him seriously, the affidavit states. That is when he started to shoot at them.

Bagley allegedly stated that he was trying to kill them, the affidavit states.

He was booked into Carbon County Jail.

Then, the trooper went to speak with one of the injured individuals, who was at Memorial Hospital of Carbon County, the affidavit states.

She allegedly told authorities they were feeding animals at a ranch before getting ready to head out from the property, the affidavit states.

Bagley allegedly pulled up next to them and started to yell, stop stealing my money, she told authorities, the affidavit states.

She told authorities that Bagley pulled a gun and open fired on the vehicle, so male victim returned fire.

They pulled away while Bagley continued to shoot at them, the affidavit states. He allegedly followed them, ramming their vehicle repeatedly.

Bagley was not shot. She was shot in the left shoulder and in the chest. He was shot in the head and in the left hand, the affidavit states.

He took a turn for the word and had to be intubated, so he was not immediately interviewed, the affidavit states.

Bagley allegedly struggled with dementia, so he moved in with his two relatives, she told officials, the affidavit states. They were given power of attorney over his finances.

Earlier this year, Bagley started accusing them of stealing his money, the affidavit states. He wanted to move to Rawlins, so they helped him move.

The three of them hadnt seen or spoken to each other for about a month until Bagley allegedly showed up on the day of the shooting, she told authorities, the affidavit states.

Your news on your smartphone Your story lives in Wyoming, and our new mobile app is designed to make sure you dont miss breaking news, the latest scores, the weather forecast and more. From easy navigation with the swipe of a finger to personalized content based on your preferences to customized text sizes, the Star-Tribune app is built for you and your life. Dont have the app? Download it today from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Ever wondered how religiously active Wyoming residents are compared to, say, people Ireland? Or Italy? Or Slovakia?

Admittedly, its a bit specific, so maybe not. But faith can connect people, even if they are physically thousands of miles away from each other, and data from the European Social Survey (2018-2022) and the Cooperative Election Study (2020-2022) shows that. In a graph posted on X, formerly Twitter, Ryan Burge, a political scientist, statistician and Baptist pastor, compared the weekly religious attendance of Europeans and Americans by country and state.

Twenty-six percent of Wyomingites attend a church or religious gathering weekly, according to the graph. The Cowboy State is sandwiched in between two Bible Belt-adjacent southern states, Kentucky and West Virginia. And it is on par with Ireland, which also has an attendance rate of 26%, and just a hair above Italy, which sees a rate of 25%.

In fact, West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia and Kansas all have the same attendance rate as Wyoming.

Cyprus, an island in the Mediterranean, has an attendance rate of 27%. Poland has an attendance rate of 44%, and Slovakia a rate of 34%. They are the only three European countries to rank higher than Wyoming in terms of attendance.

Utah is the highest-ranking U.S. state on the list, with an attendance rate of 41%. It may not come as a complete shock, since over 2 million Mormons live there. Idaho sits at 31%. Further down on the list is Colorado, with an attendance rate of 24%. And while you would normally look north towards Montana, on this graph you have to look south: only 22% of Montana residents attend a religious gathering weekly.

The U.S. average is 25%; Europes is 14%.

Organized religion in the U.S. is going through a bit of an overhaul as more people leave Christianity and express no religious preference.

The European Social Survey is conducted over 30 countries. The Cooperative Election Study is a 50,000-person national stratified sample and is done before and after each presidential election in the U.S. under Harvard University.
There is a small group in Wyoming (and around the nation) that is determined that K-12 students study only positive aspects of our history, or aspects of gender, or the history of evolution, etc. Those who wish to add to, or detract from, the curriculum seem to believe that it is not only a parents right to specify what can and cant be studied by their child, but by ALL children.

I am sure that they view patriotism as an unqualified love and approval of their country, but if we dont verify that we have made mistakes, how do we correct them? Slavery happened, and it is a dark spot in our history, as is our treatment of Native Americans, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican Americans, etc.

The truth is, we have never treated minorities very well. First, it was the Irish, then the Italians, and then ... We are inclined to treat anyone different than ourselves as outliers. Most of us manage to stop short of being personally unkind or proposing policies or laws that discriminate against those outside our comfort zones, but some dont.

It is time to fess up, then we have to try our best to fix our mistakes. Thankfully, our public schools recognized the diversity from the beginning and designed schools to give ALL children the opportunity to learn what they needed to know, what they needed to be able to do to become citizens in a democratic society. A variety of people came to this country from many other cultures and the public schools were to help integrate them into a different society where they had not simply freedom, but responsibility to govern that society.

Public school courses included reading, language arts, science, math, social studies, world language, fine and performing arts, health, civics, physical education, literature, and communication technology.

These studies didnt just appear by accident, or because a parent (or several parents) didnt agree with the moral content of the subjects, but because all three  national, state and local  governmental agencies were involved and because universities researched both how we learn and what we need to know.

The federal government concerns itself with equity to be sure ALL children, including those with disabilities, have the same opportunities as other children.

The state outlines which studies are to be offered, and the local board designates how many years are required in each subject, as well as setting district policy and ethical codes for personnel and students.

As for the courses of study and materials, the teachers and librarians get together to select materials and consult with social workers and counselors about age appropriateness. People who have spent years studying human learning and course content know what they are doing. To suggest that individuals who havent even had training to be parents are now in a position to make decisions about curriculum is like suggesting that patients diagnose their own medical illnesses.

Critics neglect the fact that schools have two other functions: teaching values and skills. Among the values are diversity, equity, inclusion, respect, fairness and community. Students are exposed to the notion that freedom is not unrestricted, and that we all must concede the same rights to others as those we cherish for ourselves. They experience the concept of common good.

There are also skills learned in the public schools, such as problem solving, organizing, reading for meaning, how to compute, our relationship to the natural world and each other, teamwork, critical thinking and obedience.

Parents can be partners or critics; they should not try to insert their judgement over those professionals who have spent between five university years and a lifetime learning about the process and purpose of education, and have dedicated themselves to the growth of our children and our nation.
WHEN the rice finishes, we make dumplings.

Thats the reality for one family because they simply cannot afford to replenish food until the next pay cheque.

Living pay cheque to pay cheque is a dilemma many households are facing in Trinidad and Tobago.
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.
EIGHT MEN were slain between Sunday night and yesterday, among them the multiple killings of
As we sit in the comfort of our Caribbean homes and look on in horror at the merciless genoc
This blog covers software patent news and issues with a particular focus on wireless, mobile devices (smartphones, tablet computers, connected cars) as well as select antitrust matters surrounding those devices.
A researcher at the University of Arizona Steele Childrens Research Center has received a $400,000 grant to support his work into childhood leukemia and other blood-related cancers.

The nonprofit organization Hyundai Hope on Wheels awarded Dr. Emmanual Katsanis of the Steele Childrens Research Center the Hope Scholar Award.

Pediatric cancer represents a small portion of cancer in the community, so industry in general always supports research in adults because thats where they make their money, Katsanis said. Grants like this support research that is specifically for pediatrics.

Additionally, Banner Diamond Childrens Medical Center, the only pediatric cancer program in southern Arizona, received $100,000 towards nursing education and support for the adolescent and young adult program.

Hyundai Hope on Wheels generous donation will help our team members provide tailored recreation and wellness activities for our adolescent and young adult cancer patients, in addition to their specialized cancer care, said their chief executive officer Sarah Frost. Our patients who enter our facilities here in our community deserve every opportunity to be their healthiest. These funds will go directly towards the resources to ensure that were able to continue to make that happen.

The Hope on Wheels signature handprints each tell a unique story, said Sam Khayat, executive vice president and chief executive officer of Jim Click Hyundai.

The children out there, they dont need to think that theyre alone  theyre not, Khayat said. The doctors, the customers, the community, our employees, everyone out there can do their share so those children know theres going to be a day where everything is going to be cancer-free for them.

Founded in 1998 by a small group of New England dealerships, Hope on Wheels is the largest nonprofit funder of pediatric cancer in America. Its primary source of funding comes from Motor Hyundai America and its more than 830 dealerships nationwide, that donate a portion of every vehicle sale to help fight childhood cancer.

Only four percent of the federal funding for cancer research goes to pediatric cancer . . . Knowing that over 15,000 children this year will be diagnosed with cancer. To me, theres no better way than to give back to the community, said Hyundai Motor America representative Rajesh Gupta. Helping children fight cancer, our goal is to fight for that, with the hope that someday we will be cancer-free.

September is national childhood cancer awareness month, and Wednesdays ceremony at the UA Health Sciences Innovation Building was a stark reminder of not only the research being done at the university, but also of those who have succumbed to cancer.

For Vanessa Gurevichs son, Caden, the work of Dr. Katsanis saved his life.

I can tell you that your contributions to his research lab, to his team, to all of the healthcare workers, to the families  it makes an impact, and it makes a difference, Gurevich said at the ceremony.

Caden was a baby when he was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. Dr. Katsanis performed a half-match bone marrow transplant, using his father as the donor. And now, three-years later, Caden is cancer-free.

Were just so thankful and honored to be here and give you a positive story, Gurevich said. Through more research and your contributions there will be hope for all of the children out there dealing with this terrible, awful disease.
PHOENIX  A federal judge has blocked Arizona from enforcing a 2022 state law requiring proof of citizenship to vote for U.S. president.

In ruling Thursday, U.S. District Court Judge Susan Bolton said Arizonans who use a federal voter registration form are entitled to cast a ballot in presidential elections. She voided parts of the state law that say only those who provide satisfactory evidence of citizenship can vote in those elections.

Bolton also said the state cannot enforce another provision that says anyone who uses this federal form cant vote by mail.

But the judge withheld final judgment on whether other changes in state voter registration laws enacted by the Republican-controlled Arizona Legislature also run afoul of federal laws. That will be determined after a full-blown trial.

In a separate ruling, however, Bolton gave challengers, including the U.S. Department of Justice and voting rights groups including Mi Familia Vota, the authority to question Senate President Warren Petersen and House Speaker Ben Toma about their motives for approving the laws.

The speaker and president must produce communications that they have sent or received relating to the voting laws legislative process and withheld on legislative privilege grounds, the judge wrote. They may also be deposed about their personal involvement in the voting laws legislative process.

Sworn statements of citizenship

The ruling overturns efforts by GOP lawmakers to limit, ahead of the 2024 presidential race, who can cast a ballot.

State law requires people to provide proof of citizenship to vote. That is not in dispute for state or local races.

But the National Voter Registration Act requires the Election Assistance Commission to prepare a form that can be used to vote in federal elections. That form mandates only that applicants sign a sworn statement avowing, under penalty of perjury, they are in fact citizens.

State Sen. Jake Hoffman, R-Queen Creek, who was in the Arizona House at the time, said that ignores the Constitution. He said Congress is allowed to pass laws pertaining to the times, places and manners of electing representatives and senators.

But the Constitution gives no such power (by Congress) over presidential elections, Hoffman argued at the time, saying that power is reserved to the states. He said that means Arizona is free to set voting requirements in presidential races, including proof of citizenship.

Bolton disagreed.

The plain language of the National Voter Registration Act reflects an intent to regulate all elections for federal office, including for president or vice president, she wrote. And binding precedent indicates that Congress has the power to control registration for presidential elections.

Cant bar voting by mail

Similarly, Bolton said federal law preempts a requirement in the challenged statute that anyone who uses the federal form must provide documented proof of citizenship in order to vote by mail in any race for which they are eligible to vote. She said thats not what the federal law says.

Congress recorded that it enacted the National Voter Registration Act not just to establish procedures that will increase the number of eligible citizens who register to vote in elections for federal office, but also to make it possible for federal, state and local governments to implement this chapter in a manner that enhances the participation of eligible citizens as voters in elections for federal office, Bolton said.

Further, Congress found that discriminatory and unfair registration laws and procedures can have a direct and damaging effect on voter participation in elections for federal office and disproportionately harm voter participation by various groups, including racial minorities, the judge continued. It is the duty of federal, state and local governments to promote the exercise of the fundamental right to vote.

Hoffmans legislation was one of several dozen measures introduced in the legislative session closely linked to the movement that challenges Donald Trumps 2020 loss to Joe Biden in Arizona by 10,457 votes.

This measure specifically stems from claims that people who arent legally in this country went to the polls and cast ballots.

Hoffman said at the time that about 21,000 Arizonans signed up to vote using not the state registration form, which has a proof-of-citizenship requirement, but the form prepared by the Election Assistance Commission that entitles registrants to vote only in presidential and congressional races and mandates only that applicants sign a sworn statement avowing, under penalty of perjury, they are citizens.

On signing the measure, then-Gov. Doug Ducey said he accepted Hoffmans argument that there is a legal nuance that allows the state to seek citizenship proof in presidential contests that it cannot seek in congressional races.
Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs says neither she, nor any other Arizona official, has the unilateral right to keep Donald Trump off the ballot for the states presidential preference primary based on the 14th Amendment.

Thats also the view of Republican state Sen. Ken Bennett, who served six years as secretary of state, Arizonas chief election officer.

But Democrat Adrian Fontes, the current secretary of state, hasnt reached a conclusion yet on whether he can decide Trumps actions in and around Jan. 6, 2021 violate the 14th Amendment. That post-Civil War amendment bars anyone who has engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the government from holding federal office.

Fontes is actively seeking legal advice, his press aide said Thursday.

The secretary of states counterparts in other states have said theyre also looking for guidance.

Fontes has some time. The earliest anyone seeking to get on Arizonas March 19 presidential preference ballot can file the necessary paperwork is Nov. 10, with a deadline of Dec. 11. Fontes must decide by Dec. 14 whose name can be on the ballot.

Hobbs, who was secretary of state until becoming governor in January, said Thursday she doesnt see any wiggle room. It is not up to any elected official to get involved in that, she said. Its up to the courts.

She said she wont seek judicial intervention. Im not going to be a part of that, Hobbs said.

Bennett said the secretary of state does have some authority over ballot status. There are things you can do in Arizona that can keep you off the ballot, he said.

There is a form that those seeking ballot status in Arizona must fill out, asking would-be candidates whether they meet the three criteria outlined in the U.S. Constitution, he said.

You have to be 35 years of age, you have to have lived in the country for 14 years, and be a natural-born citizen, Bennett said. If you dont check those three boxes and you dont attest with your signature that you meet those qualifications, you shouldnt be on the ballot.

Asked if theres anything else, he answered: Not for the reasons of January 6th.

He said thats especially true given that Trump has not been convicted of anything related to the events leading up to and during the riot where the former presidents supporters sought to halt the counting of the electoral votes in an unsuccessful bid to keep Trump in office and deny Joe Biden his election victory.

Just to hypothesize that he might be off the ballot because of what happened on January 6th I think is completely inappropriate, Bennett said.

Bennett has some history in this area of what a secretary of state can  and cannot  do in determining the qualifications of presidential contenders. He said he discovered in 2012 that Democrat Barack Obama, seeking reelection, had not checked the three boxes on the state form when he first ran in 2008.

I was shocked, he said.

The problem was resolved when Obamas campaign provided a signed form, he said.

Yet Bennett caused headlines when he asked the state of Hawaii to provide certification that it had a birth certificate on file for Obama. He said Thursday, however, that had nothing to do with whether Obamas name was going to be on the ballot.

I basically requested that document because I had people, mostly a lot of Republicans, saying We dont believe he was born in Hawaii,  Bennett said.

The actual birth certificate was not subject to disclosure. But Bennett said he was informed there was a statute in Hawaii that allows election officials from other states to get this certain certification in lieu of a birth certificate.

So I simply did that to prove to people who were contacting my office saying, daily, What are you going to do to make sure that he was really eligible to run for president?  he said.

That involved getting a $5 money order, filling it out, and sending it to Hawaii. Bennett said he got verification that Obama was born on Aug. 4, 1961 in Honolulu, with the names of his parents and the hospital of his birth.

But Bennett said it would not have mattered  at least to him for the purposes of the 2012 presidential primary  if he never got the document about Obama.
SEDONA  Sedona Police Officer Steven Willadsen dragged a salt-and-pepper-haired man in his thirties out of a blue SUV, forcing him to the pavement of an Arizona roadway flanked by strips of the areas iconic red soil.

No, no, no, Matthew Paul Tucciarone pleaded as he was rolled over and handcuffed. I didnt do anything.

Minutes earlier, Willadsen had stopped Tucciarone for driving with a fictitious license plate featuring a version of the U.S. flag on one side and a bald eagle clutching arrows and olive branches on the other. Tucciarone failed to provide a legal drivers license, registration or insurance, and ignored the officers orders to leave the car.

Ive asked you 10 times to get out. Get out on your own then, Willadsen told him after backup arrived. In total, he warned Tucciarone nearly 20 times that he could either get out or be forced out before pulling him from the car, according to body camera footage obtained by AZCIR.

Tucciarone is one of a growing number of people in the U.S. whose distrust of government and other mainstream institutions has led them to embrace the conspiracy-laden, anti-government ideology of the sovereign citizen movement. That growth has become increasingly evident in Arizona, as adherents often put themselves in direct conflict with law enforcement and the courts.

In Tucson, a surge of sovereign filings has inundated staff at the Pima County Recorders Office. But its among Sedonas iconic sandstone towers where the movements more aggressive tactics have led to bogus legal filings designed to intimidate and harass public officials, requests by court officials to increase building security and increasing tensions with local police.

Though Sedona officials have publicly downplayed the growth of the movement, an AZCIR review of internal communications found the Sedona Police Department has issued internal bulletins highlighting individual members, alerting officers to common sovereign tactics and warning of threatening rhetoric targeting public officials. Several members of the force also completed a training on Sovereign Citizen Extremists offered by the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board in 2021.

The sovereign citizen stuff leads people in a much more dangerous and desperate direction, said Devin Burghart, president and executive director of the Institute for Research and Education on Human Rights, an advocacy group that combats white nationalism and other forms of bigotry. Their lives suddenly become much more volatile  a simple traffic stop could become a shootout.

Whether sovereigns act independently or identify with one of its many loose-knit groups, their ideology is based on a conspiracy theory that the U.S. was subverted by an illegitimate government more than 100 years ago, and as a result, its laws have no real authority over them.

This perceived independence leads followers to do things like renounce their U.S. citizenship or stop paying taxes. In more extreme scenarios, sovereigns have armed themselves to defend their beliefs  as in 2014, when the Arizona Department of Public Safety stopped a sovereign who had a loaded AK-47, pipe bombs and other explosive components in his vehicle.

Police interactions with sovereigns in other states have turned deadly. In March of this year, for instance, police shot and killed 25-year-old sovereign citizen Chase Allan in Farmington, Utah.

Like Tucciarone, Allan was pulled over for driving with a fictitious license plate and refused to leave his car when an officer ordered him to get out.

But unlike Tucciarone, who kept a gun in his glove compartment, Allan had a holster under his coat. As the arresting officer went to remove Allan from the car, a supporting officer spotted the holster, calling out gun, gun, gun! Officers opened fire.

Tucciarones 2021 traffic stop was not his first run-in with Sedona police. In late 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, he was arrested for trespassing at a Natural Grocers after he and others refused to wear masks while inside.

The moment that I got arrested for a mask was it for me, Tucciarone said, acknowledging that the incident was a tipping point for what he viewed as a series of government failures.

It wasnt long after that incident when Tucciarone attended his first sovereign citizen meeting. He moved between different local and national sovereign groups, each with their own flavor and process for becoming free from what they view as an illegitimate government. He eventually soured on their approach, believing some of the self-described teachers were scamming followers.

By April 2021, he was one of several sovereigns on the Sedona Police Departments radar.

Then-Sedona Police Chief Charles Husted called for an internal bulletin to alert officers to threats allegedly made against city officials by Tucciarone and another Sedona-based sovereign citizen.

When out and about, maintain situational awareness and remain particularly mindful of the potential officer safety threat posed by Tucciarone and others, Lt. Stephanie Foley wrote in an email to staff the following day. Record and document encounters with these individuals and any associated instances. Be vigilant and stay safe.

Other Sedona Police communications obtained by AZCIR revealed a familiarity with sovereign tactics and ideologies, often focused on issues around fictitious license plates.

In one exchange, Sedona Magistrate Judge Paul Schlegel asked the department to step up hours for a court security guard, voicing his concern about an increased influx of sovereign citizens and First Amendment auditors.

Sovereign citizens have been overheard commenting about their knowledge of when our court security officer is working and they come in when hes gone, Schlegel wrote. He mentioned that one court clerk had already left because the employee no longer felt safe working there.

In 2022, Schlegel was one of several city employees targeted in what court documents described as a paper terrorism attack by a group of sovereign citizens. The group was led by Shelley Evans, who hosts a mix of alternative wellness programs and lectures with sovereign citizen-type training at the Ultimate Light Mission in Sedona.

The group is facing criminal charges after filing a series of bogus liens alleging that city officials committed 391 violations of the Constitution and Bill of Rights and demanding payment of more than $12 million.

Publicly, the city of Sedona maintains that sovereign citizen activity in the community has not significantly changed. In an email to AZCIR, spokeswoman Lauren Browne indicated the police department does not believe there is heightened awareness of the movement.

As has been for quite some time, the police department encounters people who say they are sovereign citizens, Browne wrote. They do not feel there has been an uptick in these interactions.

Department emails, however, show the agency has leaned on an Arizona Peace Officer Standard and Training Board-certified training on Sovereign Citizen Extremists to prepare its officers.

The course, created in 2015, was designed to provide peace officers the information to help them understand the sovereign citizen movement and the extremist faction of it. It outlines ways to identify sovereign citizens, the types of encounters officers might have when engaging with them and safety tips, as well as retaliation methods typically used by sovereigns and countermeasures law enforcement may take.

A Sedona Police Department email sent on Feb. 14, 2021, asked officers in training to watch the course within five days of receipt, indicating the agency would soon be conducting its own Reality Based Training  involving a traffic stop on a Sovereign.

The script for the AZPOST training video emphasizes the need for peace officers and public officials to better understand the movement as it grows in Arizona.

The Arizona Department of Public Safety issued a similar bulletin about sovereign citizens in 2008 through its Counter Terrorism Information Center. AZCIR contacted the department seeking any updates on the movements presence in the state, but a spokesman declined to comment, citing the age of the bulletin and staff turnover.

Tucciarone was ultimately charged for resisting arrest and creating a substantial risk of causing physical injury to the peace officer, displaying a fictitious license plate, and failing to provide evidence of identity after the June 2021 incident in Sedona.

Like many sovereigns, he represented himself in Yavapai Superior Court.

Though he was unsure of how the judge would rule, Tucciarone said he was confident in what he learned through his sovereign studies. Ultimately, the state moved to dismiss the case and refile it as a misdemeanor at the Justice Court.

Records show Tucciarone also filed a 77-page notice of claim against Sedona, alleging damages and harm during the traffic stop and subsequent arrest. Naming then-Police Chief Husted and four other officers, including Willadsen, in the claim, he indicated he was willing to settle for $20 million.

The judge presiding over Tucciarones case dismissed it without prejudice and ordered that the Sedona Police return Tucciarones handgun, which was confiscated after his arrest. The case was refiled in Sedona Court as a misdemeanor, but Tucciarone failed to appear in court.

Officials issued an arrest warrant in response. And on May 13, 2023, as he returned from an event by bicycle, Tucciarone again found himself being dragged to the ground by Officer Willadsen after failing to comply with an order to put away his phone during the arrest, according to bodycam footage obtained by AZCIR.

The reason I cant allow you to call somebody is because if somebody shows up to the stop and shoots me in the head while trying to arrest you, Willadsen said before getting cut-off.

No one is going to shoot you, Tucciarone said.

I dont know that, thats why I said to stop, Willadsen replied.

Tucciarone faces a new charge of resisting arrest. This time around, though, he said he plans to follow former President Donald Trumps lead by using an attorney. He believes that far too many sovereigns go into courtrooms and are belligerent and disrespectful of judges, harming the image of the movement.

Even before his most recent arrest, Tucciarone said he was changing his tactics when dealing with police, citing the fatal sovereign citizen shooting in Utah as a cautionary tale.

Do I want to sit on the side of the road and argue with a police officer? No, I dont  not anymore, Tucciarone said at the time.
Andrea Eger Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Andrea Eger Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

OKLAHOMA CITY  A Tulsa School board member was invited to speak to a right-wing group State Superintendent Ryan Walters called the tip of the spear and the spine in his fight against woke indoctrination in public schools.

Walters and Tulsa school board member ELena Ashleys appearances Wednesday at a meeting of the Oklahoma Conservative Political Action Committee Foundation comes on the heels of Walters recent threats to have the state take over Tulsa Public Schools.

His public campaign against TPS ended for the time being with Tulsa Superintendent Deborah Gists agreeing with the local school board to step down at the end of this week and the State Board of Educations ultimately upgrading the districts state accreditation status with three stipulations:

That TPS create a professional development plan to train teachers on the science of reading

That the district create an action plan to get all of its schools designated by the state with F school report cards off that list

That the district publish its newly implemented internal controls to prevent embezzlement.

Walters called Ashley the best school board member in the country, and then OCPAC Foundation President Bob Linn introduced her as the best school board member in the state of Oklahoma.

Ashley said she stepped into local politics from obscurity with the notion that we need to protect our children and we need to protect education.

She said what she discovered in her first year on the school board was a school district focused on the social-emotional learning needs of students rather than academics, questionable financial oversight and data mining of children in school.

Our school board is undermining parents and undermining education itself, Ashley said.

She claimed that the Tulsa school board has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on organizations owned by the Kaisers and what is the Microsoft guy? in an apparent reference to Tulsa philanthropist George Kaiser and Microsoft software co-founder Bill Gates.

None of this learning  social-emotional learning  none of those words that have anything to do with academics, she said. We have to have that little construct, social emotional learning, to get the federal dollars. So, you guys following me? OK, so we pay for this. The federal government throws in money. The school board is rich, and the kids fail.

She also questioned the need for 35 mental health organizations in our schools, alleging that we are literally diagnosing our children with anything and everything so that we can have more money and so that we can have more excuses.

Some in the audience gasped when Ashley said almost half of the children have qualified or been on an IEP, or Individualized Education Program, in Tulsa Public (Schools)  and they bring in more government funding as a result.

An IEP is a legal document under federal law that is developed for each public school student in the U.S. who needs special education because of a diagnosed disability.

The school districts own website lists 13% as the states last official count in fall 2022 of special education students in TPS.

State Sen. Shane Jett, who moderated the conversation, said he has gone to Walters personally with concerns that IEPs are being used as a barrier for teachers to properly manage student behaviors in classrooms.

Tulsa is one of the worst actors because theyve been under malignant leadership, said Jett, R-Shawnee.

As for the data mining claims, Ashley said computers are set in front of our children. They ask questions like, How do you feel at home? Do you feel better at school or at home? Do you like your parents? So theyre very, very general questions that can undermine whats going on in the household or even your religious beliefs because they have a way of secretly sliding in what they want these children to be.

The landscape of local, nonpartisan school board elections is quickly evolving because of a new, intensive focus placed on the races by political party operatives and a flood of new cash being spent to influence votes from direct donations to candidates as well as so-called dark money groups.

The OCPAC Foundations affiliated Oklahoma Conservative Political Action Committees stated mission is to help elect candidates to inject Judeo-Christian standards into government. Linn is chairman of that PAC, which accepts donations from individuals and even companies looking to influence votes during elections but not be subject to the same public reporting requirements as direct donors to candidate campaigns.

The PAC gave financial support to Ashley and several other school board candidates last year, as well as to Walters and Gov. Kevin Stitt.

Walters thanked Wednesdays OCPAC Foundation meeting attendees for their ongoing support, as they turn out in droves at monthly State Board of Education meetings and sign up to offer public comments praising him.

He urged them to get more friends and relatives involved and to continue to pray and mobilize in support of him.

Folks, it is groups like you that allow us to do this. Im telling you, we listen to the parents and the grandparents, and we are going to fight for you unapologetically, he said.

Walters praised Jett, Rep. Sherrie Conley, R-Newcastle, Sen. Jack Stewart, R-Yukon, and two of his fellow State Board of Education members, Suzanne Reynolds and Kendra Wesson, who were all in attendance.

He drew a large round of applause for sharing: We announced last week were putting PragerU in our classrooms.

Walters was referring to an online catalog of right-wing videos, lesson plans, worksheets, and online books and magazines that he had linked on the Oklahoma State Department of Educations official social studies page last week in hopes that public school teachers and districts will begin using them.

However, such curriculum decisions are a matter of local control decided by locally elected school boards under state law.

PragerU is not a university or an accredited education entity but a foundation co-founded by conservative radio talk show host Dennis Prager that collects millions of dollars from conservative donors to produce cartoon videos meant to promote American values and serve as a free alternative to the dominant left-wing ideology in culture, media, and education.
Kevin Canfield Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Kevin Canfield 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

A grocery store executive told city councilors on Wednesday that the industry is working to address the problem of abandoned shopping carts and cautioned the city against getting too involved in solving it.

Kevan Fenderson, director of government relations for Brookshire Grocery Co., said that while stores would welcome the citys cooperation, experience has taught grocers that things get complicated when municipalities try to tackle the issue.

In a metro market like Las Vegas, where the city stepped in and tried to intervene in the process, they become cart owners and cart wranglers, and it creates a very problematic environment for everyone, Fenderson said. So we would prefer to keep you out of the grocery cart business. 

Now having said that, herding retailers is like herding cats, so this is a daunting task even for us to, as an industry group, trying to do this collectively. But I think we are here asking for that opportunity to do that and see if we can make an impact.

Brookshire, a Tyler, Texas-based company, finalized a deal last year to acquire all 17 Reasors locations in Oklahoma.

Fenderson and his Brookshire colleague James Grant were invited to Wednesdays Tulsa City Council committee meeting by Councilor Jayme Fowler, who has been working for months to address the abandoned shopping cart problem in the city and the quality-of-life and nuisance issues it can generate.

In Tulsa and other large cities it is not unusual for homeless people to use shopping carts to transport their belongings through the streets.

Fenderson told councilors a person doesnt have to be in Tulsa long to understand that the problem is real, and he said the industry is taking it seriously.

I am excited to tell you that under the leadership of the Oklahoma Grocers Association, we are in the beginning stages of developing what we hope will be a retailer-led shopping cart retrieval and recovery service, Fenderson said. We believe that we can work proactively to mitigate the existing abandoned cart problem and develop longer-term solutions to retain those carts on our property.

Grant said grocers profit margins are less than 1% and that a new shopping cart can cost approximately $150 to $300. The price increases by $150 or so when locking devices are added.

The Reasors stores at 41st Street and Garnett Road and 15th Street and Lewis Avenue have had a significant number of carts taken from their properties, Grant said.

We need the buggies in order to do business, Grant said. So studies were run sometime back on both of those stores. We do have a wheel-locking mechanism at 15th and Lewis, and it has helped us tremendously.

Fowler, who is running for mayor, suggested in March that the city charge stores a fee every time the city has to collect one of their shopping carts abandoned off the store property.

The reality is that the city is subsidizing, what I think, and a lot of other people think, is poor choices and bad behavior, Fowler said at the time. Shopping carts from retail merchants hauling peoples goods around town, those carts more often than not have been taken off premises and used for other things than what they were originally designed for.

He has reconsidered that position and is in the process of gathering information and consulting with affected parties to determine what the citys best course of action should be.

After Wednesdays committee meeting, Fowler said he is not looking to impose intrusive enforcement by the city of a shopping cart ordinance.

A potentially better solution, Fowler said, would be to establish an alliance of retailers that would fund the retrieval and monitoring of shopping carts.

If we can transfer that to the private marketplace, I think that is a win, he said.

Fowler added that its important that Tulsans know that no one in our city is a child of a lesser God.

There are just a number of these people that, just down through the years, have gotten in the habit of using this as their storage, their vehicle of transportation, Fowler said. And if and when we do codify that carts are a public nuisance, that function is going to be taken away from that particular person, and we just cant abandon them there on the streets.

There has got to be social services involved.  Maybe this might be the first step to a new life about getting off the streets and taking those first steps to a new chapter in their life.



The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today.
Barbara Hoberock Tulsa World Capitol Bureau Staff Writer Follow Barbara Hoberock Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

OKLAHOMA CITY  Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat on Wednesday said he wants to learn more about Gov. Kevin Stitts plan to eliminate the state income tax.

Stitt on Monday called the Legislature back into special session on Oct. 3 in part to cut the income tax and find a pathway toward elimination.

Treat, R-Oklahoma City, said eliminating the income tax would result in $4 billion in lost revenue.

Treat called Stitts proposal intensely vague.

Which schools is he going to close? Treat asked. Which public safety programs are we going to cancel? Are the tax credits we just passed for school choice, are we going to have to rescind some of those? Because $4 billion is a huge part of our budget.

Treat said he wants to know, if Stitt is not willing to cut any expenditures, which taxes he is willing to raise to make up for the loss of income taxes.

Treat said the Senate will meet in special session on Oct. 3 and then go into a budget meeting. He said Stitt has been invited to the meeting to explain his plan to lawmakers.

I think all Oklahomans deserve to hear what his real plan is, Treat said.

Treat said that philosophically, he would love to see no income tax, adding that Oklahoma is about fifth overall in the tax burden to citizens.

Anything you do, you have got to be certain, Treat said. You cant just ram it through in a day or two special session without a whole lot of thought.

It takes a simple majority to cut taxes, but State Question 640, which voters approved in 1992, requires a supermajority to increase them, and that is never easy to get, Treat said.

Stitt has said the state has $8 billion in savings, but Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Roger Thompson, R-Okemah, thinks Stitt is overstating the figure.

Treat said Stitts savings figures count money the Legislature cant access, adding that Stitts figures are bloated.

I think the governor has more confidence in the Biden economy than I do, Treat said.

Some think the enormous amount of federal dollars plugged into the economy to deal with COVID-19 have contributed to an inflated figure.

In the past, the House has been willing to cut taxes, but the Senate has been more cautious.

Treat was critical of Stitt for not giving him any notice when Stitt announced on Monday that he was calling the special session, calling it unprofessional.

If he hopes to have success and actually get something done, it is probably a good idea to talk to the leader of the body that is going to have to do part of it, he said.

Treat said he has not spoken to Stitt since May 19.

Do we have a desire to go into special session? No, he said. Do we have an obligation? Yes.

Treat said it is appropriate, given the scenario, to let the governor defend what he has put on paper and provide actual details.



The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today.

May 26 video: Oklahoma governor compares other state income tax rates
Ties elevated to all-weather partnership

09:34, September 14, 2023 By Cao Desheng ( China Daily

Xi's talks with Maduro in Beijing open new chapter in bilateral cooperation

President Xi Jinping greets Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday before their talks in the Great Hall of the People. FENG YONGBIN/CHINA DAILY

China and Venezuela elevated their ties to an all-weather strategic partnership on Wednesday, as the countries agreed to advance cooperation on the joint building of the Belt and Road, economy and trade, education, tourism, science and technology, health, aerospace and civil aviation.

President Xi Jinping and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Moros jointly announced the elevation of the countries' ties, and witnessed the signing of the agreements after their talks at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The two countries issued a joint statement on the establishment of the all-weather strategic partnership.

Maduro is making a weeklong state visit to China at the invitation of President Xi. The visit, which runs through Thursday, marks his fifth trip to China as Venezuelan president. It also took him to Shenzhen, Guangdong province, as well as Shanghai and Shandong province.

During their talks, Xi spoke highly of the development of China-Venezuela relations in recent years, saying that the two countries are good friends who trust each other and are good partners for common development.

He told Maduro that China has always viewed its relationship with Venezuela from a strategic and long-term perspective, firmly supporting Venezuela's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, dignity and social stability, as well as its efforts to oppose external interference.

Both sides should push for more fruitful results in China-Venezuela strategic cooperation, bringing more benefits to the two peoples and injecting more positive energy into world peace and development, he added.

Xi briefed Maduro about China's reform and opening-up, especially the construction of special economic zones. He noted that reform and opening-up is an important instrument for China to catch up with the times in great strides and a crucial move in making China what it is today.

"China cherishes the valuable experience gained in this process and will continue to advance reform and opening-up. No force can stop China's progress and development," Xi said.

Noting that China supports Venezuela in establishing special economic zones, Xi said that the nation is ready to share relevant experiences to help advance Venezuela's development.

As next year marks the 50th anniversary of the countries' diplomatic ties, Xi called on both sides to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges and promote practical cooperation in various fields.

China is willing to import more high-quality and distinctive Venezuelan products, Xi said.

He congratulated Venezuela on becoming the first country in Latin America to join the International Lunar Research Station project, which was initiated by China.

Both countries should closely cooperate in multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations and the Group of 77 and China, and strengthen unity and cooperation with other developing countries to safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the common interests of developing countries, Xi said.

Highlighting that China attaches great importance to the development of China-Latin America relations, he said that the nation is willing to work with Venezuela and other countries in Latin America to promote overall cooperation between China and the region, and to jointly build a community with a shared future.

Maduro said that China has become a great country dedicated to peace, development and the wellbeing of all humanity, as well as an important engine for promoting a new multipolar world.

He said that his state visit to China and the elevation of Venezuela-China relations to an all-weather strategic partnership are of historical significance and will usher in a new era for bilateral relations.

Venezuela actively supports the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, as well as the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, Maduro said, adding that his country is willing to closely communicate and cooperate with China within multilateral frameworks, such as the UN and the BRICS mechanism, to uphold multilateralism and the legitimate interests of developing countries.

In the joint statement, Venezuela reaffirms its interest in joining BRICS, and China says it welcomes Venezuela's positive intention and supports efforts to achieve this goal.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Randy Krehbiel Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Randy Krehbiel Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

Oklahoma may soon be pursuing lawsuits related to pollution from the forever chemicals known as PFAS.

Attorney General Gentner Drummonds office is soliciting proposals from private law firms with experience in litigation involving per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS chemicals, he said Wednesday.

Originating in the 1940s with the accidental discovery of Teflon, PFAS chemicals are virtually impervious to the usual forces of decay. While that has made PFAS substances extraordinarily useful, their presence in clothes, packaging, food and water is becoming a public health concern.

These chemicals pose a threat to everyone, and our firefighters and military personnel are at even higher risk, Drummond said in a press release. I am seeking proposals from qualified law firms whose expertise can assist me in determining the best approach to protecting the health and safety of my fellow Oklahomans.

The presence of PFAS in foam used to extinguish blazes is a particular concern of firefighters. The substances accumulate in the human body and are known to contribute to low birth weights, infertility, high cholesterol, cancer and other conditions.

Oklahoma has no environmental regulations for PFAS; several recent attempts to legislate such oversight have failed to even get out of committee. Some municipalities, including Tulsa, regularly test drinking water for the chemicals.

PFAS levels in Tulsas drinking water have remained below recommended maximums, but researchers say those standards may be too lenient.

Experts say military bases and airports are particularly susceptible to PFAS contamination.

This week, Michigans attorney general sued the Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids in an attempt to force cleanup. Dayton, Ohio, is suing PFAS manufacturers and the U.S. Defense Department over the chemicals use at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

The city of Rome, Georgia, recently settled its lawsuit against several PFAS manufacturers.

The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today.
Tim Stanley Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Tim Stanley 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

Bill Parker, a World War II veteran whose experience helping liberate Europe from the Nazis began as a 19-year-old first-wave invader on D-Day, died Monday, Sept. 11.

He was 98.

A service is set for 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 18, at the Skiatook Church of Christ. Johnson Funeral Home of Sperry is handling arrangements.

A longtime Tulsa-area resident, Parker was featured in the Tulsa Worlds Serving Our Country series and book.

A native of McCurtain and member of the Choctaw Nation, Parker was just 19 when, on June 6, 1944, he became one of the first troops to set foot on Omaha Beach, Normandy, France, as the Allied invasion was launched to wrest Europe back from Hitler and the Nazis.

Parker, serving with the 116th Infantry Regiment, was part of the initial assault wave at 6:30 a.m., leading a team charged with clearing the barbed-wire obstacles from the shoreline ahead of the invading forces.

Despite the chaos of German shells and machine gun fire, the invaders ultimately succeeded in taking the beach, giving the Allies a vital foothold on the continent. But it came at a tremendous cost, as Parker and other survivors could attest.

Parkers 116th sustained over 1,000 casualties on D-Day.

Dead people (were) everywhere, Parker recalled of the scene afterward. In the water. Washed up on the sand. The water was plumb bloody.

Over the next several months, Parker, who achieved the rank of technical sergeant, was part of three more campaigns, as the Allies eventually forced a German surrender in May 1945.

Parker, whose decorations included a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts, always downplayed his own service. I was just an old foot soldier  trained to fight, he said once. We werent anything special. Just soldiers.

He didnt talk about the war for years. He credited a Tulsa World interview in 2016 with helping him to open up.

From there, feeling a call to help represent his generation, he began to accept invitations to appear and speak publicly. He participated in commemorative events and in 2022 traveled to Normandy for the 78th anniversary of D-Day.

Parker also shared his story with the National WWII Museum in New Orleans and the Eisenhower Presidential Library in Abilene, Kansas.

In 2022, Parker was presented the French Legion of Honor medal, a distinction recognizing veterans who helped liberate France during WWII.

Parkers return to Normandy last year marked his first time back since he was there during the war. He said afterward that it was a healing experience.

At the beach, I saw little kids laughing and playing, dogs, people swimming, Parker told the Tulsa World. It felt like (the war) was finally over.

Parker was preceded in death by his wife of 73 years, Colleen, and a daughter.

Survivors include a son, Keith; and four grandchildren.

Memorial donations may be made to the Coffee Bunker, 6365 E. 41st St., Tulsa, OK 74135.



The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today.
Many global retail giants from Japan, France, the United States, Mexico, Sweden, and Thailand are actively seeking Vietnamese farm produce and foodstuff suppliers at the Vietnam International Sourcing 2023 exhibition, which kicked off in Ho Chi Minh City on Wednesday and will last until Friday.

Among the global firms participating in the event are Aeon, Uniqlo, Walmart, Amazon, Boeing, AES, Carrefour, Decathlon, Central Group, Coppel, and IKEA.

The event, co-hosted by the European - American Market Department, under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and the Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee, features an array of trade activities aimed at connecting international supply chains.

Vietnam is moving toward becoming a global manufacturing hub, with numerous major groups and retailers having selected the Southeast Asian nation as a strategic destination for global supply chains, according to Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Do Thang Hai.

Vo Van Hoan, vice-chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee, said that the city is speeding up its global integration and focusing on green and circular economic growth.

The Export Forum 2023 and the Green Export Forum held within the framework of the event will maximize export promotion in Ho Chi Minh City in particular and Vietnam in general.

The municipal administration will help enterprises remove obstacles over export-import activities, Hoan underlined.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Authorities in Lang Son Province, northern Vietnam have rejected claims being circulated on social media that some China-bound Vietnamese agricultural products are failing customs clearance at the provinces border gates.

Border gates in Lang Son are operational, Hoang Khanh Duy, deputy head of the management board for the Dong Dang - Lang Son border gate economic zone, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Wednesday afternoon.

Competent forces at these border gates are carrying out customs inspections as usual, especially for fresh Vietnamese fruits, Duy affirmed.

Trailer trucks transporting Vietnamese export items can be cleared to leave the country at six of the provinces 12 border gates, the official said.

These six border gates are Huu Nghi, Tan Thanh, Coc Nam, Chi Ma, Na Hinh, and Dong Dang Stations.

Customs forces in the province process customs clearance procedures for around 1,100-1,200 trucks per day, with some 400-450 vehicles carrying Vietnamese exports.

Over 80 percent of those shipments are local fresh fruits, Duy elaborated, adding that the above-mentioned management board regularly works with authorities in Chinas Guangxi to facilitate customs clearance and restore operations at sub-border gates.

However, the Vietnamese official advised local durian and dragon fruit exporters to stay updated on the latest information from authorities in order to properly arrange shipments and avoid incurring additional logistic fees.

Previously, the Plant Protection Department, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, on September 5 asked its subordinate agencies in some south-central and southern provinces such as Binh Thuan, Long An, Tien Giang, and Binh Phuoc to tighten quarantine control over fruit growing regions and fruit packaging facilities that are in charge of shipments to China.

The move was made after the General Administration of Customs of China discovered some China-bound shipments of Vietnamese bananas, mangoes, durians, and dragon fruits were infected with pests like mealybugs.

The ineffective quarantine control has resulted in a number of China-bound shipments failing to meet the Chinese requirements for imported items, thus discrediting Vietnamese exports.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Vietnam-U.S. cooperation in high technology is expected to be a bright spot in their bilateral relations in the years to come, as Vietnams economic growth orientations with tech-centric approaches are relatively on a par with Washington's friendshoring strategy.

The recent Vietnam visit by U.S. President Joe Biden and the elevation of the Vietnam-U.S. relations from a comprehensive partnership to a comprehensive strategic partnership are anticipated to further boost each nations economic expansion, with their innovation, science, and technology cooperation deemed to make a breakthrough.

At a meeting with President Biden on Monday, Vietnams Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh underlined the importance of cooperation in innovation and hi-tech.

Amitendu Palit, senior research fellow and research lead of trade and economics at the Institute of South Asian Studies, under the National University of Singapore, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that President Biden's visit reflects the significance of Vietnam to U.S. strategies.

Palit believed that the U.S. views Vietnam not only as an important economic ally but also as an overall strategic partner, based on the fact that the Southeast Asian country is being regarded as an effective economic location in U.S. efforts to diversify supply chains.

The Biden administration also expressed its desire to become a global leading semiconductor manufacturer.

To realize this goal, Washington is working with its reliable partners to build resilient semiconductor supply chains, Palit said.

Although the amount of capital poured into Vietnam from the U.S. has risen over the years, the total investment remains modest compared to those made by other trade partners of this Southeast Asian nation, such as Japan, South Korea, and Singapore.

Alicia Garcia Herrero, chief economist for Asia-Pacific at French investment bank Natixis, believed that the upgrade of the Vietnam-U.S. bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership could pave the way for more positive changes made in the years ahead.

Vietnam could receive much more funding from foreign investors for projects in such fields as semiconductor, artificial intelligence, and green technology, the key cooperation sectors between the two countries, the Natixis representative said.

Vietnams manufacturing capacity built over the past three decades is expected to offer itself a good position to engage in semiconductor supply chains.

Palit added that Vietnam will likely play a crucial role in Washington's strategies to safeguard the latters semiconductor supply chains, for Vietnam is a manufacturer of electronic products and thus needs a huge volume of chips.

Herrero told the newspaper that it could take time for Vietnam to invest in hi-tech sectors and enhance its manufacturing capacities, especially when the country currently faces a number of challenges such as an inadequate infrastructure system and reliance on raw materials.

Over the past few years, multiple international corporations, including American investors, have increased their investment into Southeast Asian markets, including Vietnam due to a global shift of supply chains.

The shift has brought about both challenges and opportunities, said Nguyen Thang Vuong, an official at the European-American Market Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Vietnam is considered an ideal destination to embrace the global shift of supply chains, as it is a member of 17 free trade agreements, with 15 already coming into effect, and has a stable macroeconomy, the Vietnamese official said.

With its population of 100 million people, consumer demand is expected to soar in the future.

Also, Vietnam has been working to improve its business climate to woo more investors, Vuong added.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, to embrace the future of ecommerce and online shopping, local businesses should make the best use of ecommerce platforms to boost online exports, aside from operating their traditional trading channels.

About the friendshoring strategy, it is the practice of relocating supply chains to countries where the risk of disruption from political chaos is low.

Friendshoring is about expanding our trade ties and diversifying our supply chains among many trusted partners like Vietnam to mitigate against global shocks, geopolitical risks, and overconcentration in critical industries, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told Vietnamese Minister of Finance Ho Duc Phoc at a meeting in Vietnam in July this year.

Yellen further explained that friendshoring is to reduce the vulnerability of the economy to supply shocks in the production of critical goods, especially due to overconcentration, geopolitical, and security risks.

This means deepening U.S. economic integration with a large number of countries  including Vietnam, she added.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
NEW DELHI - The southern Indian state of Kerala shut some schools, offices and public transport on Wednesday in a race to stop the spread of the rare and deadly Nipah virus, which has killed two people.

Two adults and a child were still infected in hospital, and more than 700 people were being tested for the virus, spread via contact with the bodily fluids of infected bats, pigs or people, a state health official said.

The state government on Wednesday evening said at least 706 people, including 153 health workers, were undergoing tests to check the spread of the virus. Results were awaited.

"More people could be tested ...Isolation facilities will be provided," Pinarayi Vijayan, chief minister of Kerala, said in a statement. He asked people to avoid public gatherings in the Kozhikode district for the next 10 days.

Two infected people have died since Aug. 30 in Kerala's fourth outbreak of the virus since 2018, forcing authorities to declare containment zones in at least eight Kozhikode villages.

"We are focusing on tracing contacts of infected persons early and isolating anyone with symptoms," state Health Minister Veena George told reporters.

She said the virus detected in Kerala was the same as one found earlier in Bangladesh, a strain that spreads from human to human with a high mortality rate but has a history of being less infectious.

"Public movement has been restricted in parts of the state to contain the medical crisis," she said, adding that state epidemiologists were using antivirals and monoclonal antibodies to treat three people infected, including a medical worker.

Strict isolation rules have been adopted, with medical staff being quarantined after contact with the infected.

The first victim was a small landholder growing bananas and areca nuts in the Kozhikode village of Maruthonkara, said a government official who retraced the movement of that person to track down all people he could have interacted with and the places he visited before his health started to deteriorate.

The victim's daughter and brother-in-law, both infected, are in an isolation ward, while other family members and neighbours are being tested.

The second death followed contact in hospital with the first victim, an initial investigation has shown, but the two were not related, added the official, who sought anonymity as he was not authorised to talk to the media.

The Nipah virus was first identified in 1999 during an outbreak of illness among pig farmers and others in close contact with the animals in Malaysia and Singapore.

Outbreaks are sporadic and previous infections in South Asia have occurred when people drank date-palm sap contaminated with bat excreta.

The first victim's native village, Maruthonkara, is situated near a 300-acre forest that is home to several bat species. During the 2018 Nipah outbreak, fruit bats from the same area tested positive for the virus.

In Kerala's first Nipah outbreak, 21 of the 23 people infected died. Outbreaks in 2019 and 2021 killed two people.

Neighbouring Tamil Nadu state announced that travellers coming from Kerala would be subjected to medical tests and those with flu symptoms would be isolated.

A Reuters investigation in May identified parts of Kerala as among the places most at risk globally for outbreaks of bat viruses, especially as extensive deforestation and urbanisation have brought people and wildlife into closer contact.
The Ministry of Public Security on Wednesday prompted firefighting and rescue police agencies in all provinces and cities across Vietnam to review and inspect the compliance with fire prevention and fighting regulations at apartment blocks and boarding houses following an apartment building inferno that killed 56 people in Hanoi on Tuesday.

Police in all 63 localities were told to consult local authorities in order to enhance fire safety enforcement in these buildings and sanction fire safety violators.

The central government has issued several guidelines on fire safety, but the compliance with fire prevention laws remains weak, leading to fire-related tragedies like the one that happened in Hanoi on Tuesday, said the ministry.

The ministry tasked local police officers with raising awareness of fire safety among landlords and residents, and equipping them with fire firefighting, prevention, and rescue skills via TV channels and social networks such as Zalo and Facebook.

According to the ministrys order, it is necessary to conduct fire drills and train households to escape from a blaze, evacuate safely, and extinguish flames.

In addition, the ministry assigned the Police Department of Fire Prevention, Fighting, and Rescue to work with competent agencies under the Ministry of Construction to put forward measures to foster fire safety at apartment blocks and boarding houses so as to avoid deadly fires.

In another development, the Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee issued a fiat on inspections into fire safety at all boarding houses and apartment buildings citywide.

Buildings whose landlords violate fire safety will be shut down.

Local forces must complete their inspections prior to October 30 this year, according to the fiat.

The municipal administration asked every district and Thu Duc City to launch a campaign to guide residents on fire fighting and prevention measures and encourage households to equip their houses with tools and fire alarm systems, as well as open exits in order to save themselves if a fire breaks out.

A blaze erupted at 11:50 pm on Tuesday at an apartment block on Khuong Ha Street in Thanh Xuan District, Hanoi, leaving 56 people dead.

The building, with an area of some 200 square meters, houses around 150 people.

Police on Wednesday detained and filed charges against Nghiem Quang Minh, 44, residing in Cau Giay District, Hanoi, the owner of the apartment block, over alleged violations of fire prevention and fighting regulations.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Catch up on the news in Vietnam today:

Society

-- Security personnel at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi detected some bullets in the carry-on baggage of two passengers during screenings on Sunday and Tuesday, respectively.

-- Fish have died en masse in Da Co Canal in Lien Chieu District under Da Nang City, located in central Vietnam, over the past two days, causing an unpleasant smell.

-- The investor of the Gem Sky World urban area project in Dong Nai Province, Ha An Real Estate Trade Investment JSC, headquartered in Di An City under Binh Duong Province, southern Vietnam, may face an administrative fine of VND900 million (US$37,350) for unlawful capital mobilization, according to a proposal sent by the provincial construction department to the provincial Peoples Committee on Wednesday.

-- The Peoples Committee of Lam Dong Province in the Central Highlands region on Wednesday asked the administration of Da Lat City, a famous tourist destination, and relevant agencies to impose sanctions on Viet Land - Da Lat Company for illegal road construction in the national tourist site of Tuyen Lam Lake in the city.

-- Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Chi Vinh, former Deputy Minister of Defense, passed away at the age of 65 at his house early on Thursday morning after a period of illness.

-- The Ministry of Public Security prompted the firefighting and rescue police agencies in all provinces and cities across Vietnam to review and check the compliance with fire prevention and fighting regulations at apartment blocks and boarding houses following an apartment block inferno that killed 56 people in Hanoi on Tuesday.

Business

-- Vietnam Airlines Group, which operates Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, and Vasco, has announced that it will offer three million seats on domestic and international routes from January 25 to February 24, 2024 to meet the demand during the 2024 Lunar New Year.

-- Many global retail giants in Japan, France, the United States, Mexico, Sweden, and Thailand are joining the Vietnam International Sourcing 2023, which kicked off in Ho Chi Minh City on Wednesday and will last until Friday, to sound out cooperation with food, material, and agricultural suppliers.

-- Ninety outstanding companies were named Green Enterprises in Ho Chi Minh City at the Green Business Merit Ceremony on Wednesday night, as part of the upcoming Ho Chi Minh City Economic Forum, scheduled to take place on Friday and Saturday. The merit ceremony was held in the southern metropolis for the first time and will become an annual event.

Lifestyle

-- Binh Chanh District under Ho Chi Minh City plans to open a quarter in the Trung Son residential area for nighttime activities to lure vistors. The quarter is set to feature 92 food stalls, 19 booths of local specialties, 50 souvenir stalls, and 91 commercial booths.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
The Peoples Committee of Lam Dong Province in Vietnam's Central Highlands region on Wednesday asked the administration of Da Lat City, a famous tourist destination, along with relevant agencies to impose sanctions on Viet Land - Da Lat Company for illegal road construction in the national tourist site at Tuyen Lam Lake.

The 750-meter-long path runs through a pine forest to a campsite.

Work on a section of the road was completed months ago, while the rest has already been leveled.

The road is three to five meters wide, according to the management board of the Tuyen Lam Lake national tourist site.

The unlawful construction has affected the growth of pine trees and buried bushes, said the management board.

The board underlined that the construction caused serious consequences on landscape protection and management at the site.

As a result, the board has halted the construction, requesting the investor of the project fix its wrongdoings and move machines and equipment out of the venue.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Security personnel at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City recently detected bullets in two passengers carry-on baggage during security scans.

The most recent detection found Nguyen Ke N., a 35-year-old resident of Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi, bringing one bullet in his carry-on while he was completing security screening procedures at Noi Bai for his flight, QH 1601, bound for Pleiku City in the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai on Tuesday.

The Noi Bai Aviation Security Center coordinated with the Northern Airports Authority to ban N. from boarding the flight and make a record of the incident.

Afterward, the case was transferred to the police station at the airport for further measures in accordance with the law.

Previously, at 10:19 pm on Sunday, security officers at Tan Son Nhat discovered five cartridges with intact primers, stamped D660916, in the carry-on of 30-year-old Nguyen Van V., who was scheduled to board flight VN270 to Hanoi at 11:00 pm the same day.

The officers separated the items from passenger V. before performing thorough body swabbing on him and physically searching his baggage.

Consequently, V. was denied boarding flight VN270.

The Tan Son Nhat airport authorities worked with the Southern Airports Authority to book the case, before handing over V. and related evidence to police officers stationed at the airport.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Vietnamese tourists' application for an e-visa to enter Taiwan using visas granted by South Korea and Japan will no longer be accepted from Thursday, according to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Ho Chi Minh City.

The policy change, effective from 10:00 am on September 14, 2023, is applied only to e-visa applicants from Vietnam, not to those from other Southeast Asian countries, the TECO reported on Wednesday, citing the Taiwanese immigration agency.

Accordingly, Vietnamese passport holders who submit online applications for e-visa to Taiwan "with a visa, resident certificate or permanent resident certificate issued by Japan/Korea as supporting documents will no longer be eligible for a Travel Authorization Certificate (TAC) from Taiwanese authorities.

Those who have been already granted a TAC, which works as a multiple-entry visa, before or on September 14 still may enter Taiwan by presenting the valid TAC and related documents as required.

On August 1, 2019, Taiwan began implementing a conditional visa exemption policy for a number of countries, including Vietnam.

Accordingly, visitors who possess one of the visas that are valid or have expired less than 10 years prior to the date of arrival in Taiwan issued by the U.S., Canada, the UK, South Korea, Japan, any of the EU and Schengen countries, or electronic visas of Australia and New Zealand, will be eligible for a TAC to stay in Taiwan within 14 days.

The new change means Vietnamese tourists wanting to get an e-visa for travel to Taiwan by using such visas must shift back to the normal visa application process, which usually takes about eight days to get results, instead of receiving immediate response as in the aforementioned e-visa issuance protocol.

With the new rule, the number of travelers registering for tours from Vietnam to Japan and South Korea will significantly shrink because many of them want to travel to the two countries just for the purpose of obtaining the Japanese or South Korean visas, which facilitate them getting an e-visa to Taiwan, Vietnamese tourist companies said.

Local travel firms also said they were surprised by such a policy change as many Taiwanese tourist companies are introducing various attractive destinations in Taiwan to Vietnamese travelers to persuade them to tour the island.

Over the first six months of 2023, 190,195 Vietnamese traveled to Taiwan, equal to 95 percent of the figure for the same period of 2019, when the COVID-19 pandemic was yet to break out, according to Taiwans tourism statistics.

Tourist experts attributed this encouraging result to Taiwans effective travel promotion programs and its conditional visa-free entry policy that has been applied since August 1, 2019.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Police in Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday pressed charges against a 38-year-old Vietnamese deliveryman for allegedly snatching an iPhone 13 from a Turkish female teacher in Go Vap District last month.

The suspect was identified as Nguyen Huu Truong, residing in the citys District 12.

Investigators of Go Vap District, where the phone theft took place, are also working to file charges against those involved in consuming stolen items.

According to a police report, the phone theft occurred on August 29 on Thong Nhat Street, Ward 16, Go Vap.

When the 29-year-old teacher was walking on the street, a motorcyclist wearing a delivery jacket approached the foreign teacher, snatched her iPhone 13, and immediately ran away.

The victim shouted for help and chased the thief to little avail.

She then went to a local police station to report the theft afterward.

On August 30, police officers identified Truong as the suspected phone thief and took him to a police station for questioning.

They also discovered that Truong has two previous convictions for theft and illicit drug trafficking.

Truong admitted that he worked as a deliveryman.

After snatching the iPhone 13 from the expat teacher, he sold it for VND2.8 million (US$115) on a social media platform, he confessed.

Police already recovered the stolen phone and returned it to the victim.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
All residents and tourists are banned from bringing single-use plastic products on Co To Island off Quang Ninh Province in northern Vietnam from Friday.

Co To Island District has issued the ban a year after a pilot program was launched to forbid visitors from carrying plastic bottles, plastic bags, and materials bearing a risk of environmental pollution on the island.

Container vessels and cruise ships are subject to the ban.

The district has also set up an inspection team to check the compliance with the regulation.

The move is aimed at building a habit of saying no to plastic, and stopping plastic pollution on the island.

As per the prohibition, administrative agencies, schools, and tourism service providers in the island district must not use plastic bags and single-use plastic items.

Individuals and organizations will be sanctioned if they are found littering in public places and using products threatening the environment on the island.

Co To District welcomes some 6,000 - 8,000 travelers each year, reported the Vietnam News Agency.

Before the pilot program was executed, the districts sanitation firm collected up to 17 metric tons of waste daily during the peak travel season.

A representative of the Co To District administration said that the pilot program of banning plastic was wholeheartedly supported by locals and tourists.

The island saw a significant decrease in plastic waste, helping improve the marine ecosystem.

Many dolphins, turtles, and seagulls have entered the waters off the island.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
As the number of thefts in Soc Trang Province, southern Vietnam continues to rise, the provincial administration is requiring that enhanced measures be taken to prevent and fight the crime.

The Soc Trang administration has required agencies, especially local police departments, to employ solutions to prevent and fight crime, particularly thievery, as part of an effort that has, so far, obtained positive results, chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Tran Van Lau said on Thursday.

However, theft is still rife in the province.

Lau explained that residents are hesitant to report thefts and investigations into cases that are reported tend to produce substandard results.

According to local authorities, thieves in the province are becoming increasingly sophisticated, sparking public concerns and affecting the operation of agencies and enterprises, security, and social order in Soc Trang.

Lau attributed the situation to residents recklessness in asset management and districts poor implementation of criminal prevention and fighting programs.

Moreover, departments, agencies, districts, and police seem to be cooperating poorly as many believe fighting crime is the sole responsibility of police officers, he claimed.

As a result, he asked heads of departments, agencies, cities, towns, and districts to regularly inspect their crime prevention programs in order to improve their effectiveness, thereby contributing to local security and socio-economic development.

The provincial police force should regularly warn of thieves tricks, provide locals with prevention measures, investigate thefts, and impose sanctions on thieves.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Vietnam received a seventh-century bronze statue of four-armed goddess Durga from the family of British antiques smuggler Douglas Latchford at a ceremony in London on Wednesday afternoon.

The UNESCO recognized the statue, which is some two meters high and weighs about 250 kilograms, as world heritage.

It was stolen from the My Son Sanctuary in Quang Nam Province, central Vietnam in 2008.

Vietnamese Ambassador to the UK Nguyen Hoang Long, Minister Counsellor To Minh Thu, and U.S. and British officials attended the ceremony to hand over the statue to Vietnam.

On June 22, the U.S. Department of Justice said the U.S. filed and settled a civil forfeiture action against US$12 million derived from the sale of stolen Southeast Asian antiquities by UK antiques dealer Douglas Latchford.

In particular, Latchford was indicted for organized fraud conspiracy and other crimes in 2019.

He earned more than $12 million from the sale of stolen and smuggled Southeast Asian antiquities to buyers and dealers in the U.S. between 2003 and 2020.

He bought the seventh-century bronze statue depicting the four-armed goddess Durga in 2008 and 2009.

The statue is carefully wrapped up before being handed over to Vietnam.

According to bank and email records, Latchford arrived in Vietnam in November 2008 to purchase an artwork and asked his bankers to send some $2 million to the bank account of a person with a Vietnamese email address.

In January 2009, Latchford emailed an antiques dealer a photo of the goddess Durga statue lying on its back, covered with dust and minerals, indicating that the statue had just been excavated.

He identified the statue as having been recovered from the My Son Sanctuary.

The Vietnamese Embassy in the UK contacted and worked with relevant British bodies to take back the statue after receiving information from the Vietnamese Embassy in the U.S..

After Latchford died in 2020, his daughter Julia Copleston inherited 125 statues, including the four-armed goddess Durga statue.

Copleston agreed to hand over the statue to Vietnam.

At the ceremony to receive the statue, Ambassador Long, on behalf of the Vietnamese government, thanked the U.S. Homeland Security Investigations and the British police for their coordination to return the statue to Vietnam, saying that the handover was conducted when Vietnam and the UK celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations this year and Vietnam and the U.S. had elevated their bilateral ties to comprehensive strategic partnership, the highest level in the Southeast Asian country's international relations.

Long added the Vietnamese Embassy in the UK will cooperate closely with domestic agencies to safely transport the statue to Vietnam.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
International producer, distributor and channel operator, Blue Ant Media, has opened a new Asia Pacific office based in Sydney, Jon Penn as Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Blue Ant Media.

Jason Soh has been appointed as VP of Distribution, Asia, working out of Singapore.

The appointments signal the expansion of Blue Ant Medias channel and program distribution business in Asia Pacific, combining the companys channel distribution and content sales in the region into one unit. The Asia Pacific expansion aligns with the companys recent announcement to merge production and distribution operations with marblemedia into one unified studio and rights business.

Jon Penn is responsible for overseeing content sales and expanding the distribution of Blue Ant Medias global branded channels across Asia Pacific, which include the Love Nature brand and Blue Ant Medias portfolio of FAST channels, including NatureTime, HauntTV, Homeful, Love Pets, Total Crime and HistoryTime.

In this role he will lead teams in Sydney and Singapore and will support the development of the companys production business strategy in Australia, as well as advise on regional co-production opportunities. He reports to Carlyn Staudt, Head of Commissioning, Global Media & General Manager, Love Nature and Mark Bishop, Co-President, Blue Ant Studios.

Based in Singapore, Jason Soh will be responsible for content sales and leading distribution of Love Nature as well as developing Blue Ant Medias FAST channel portfolio in Asia. He was previously Global Channels and Distribution Director  APAC for Wildbrain and has held senior business roles with WarnerMedia, HBO, Disney and Nickelodeon.

Nick Solowski, Senior Director, International Sales & Acquisitions, will continue his multi-regional content sales responsibilities but now will report into Jon Penn as it relates to business in the Asia Pacific markets of China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. Additionally, Morgan Jacobson is joining the team as Senior Specialist, Programming and Affiliate Marketing for APAC. Jacobson has relocated to Sydney from Love Natures Washington DC office and will be taking on sales and affiliate marketing responsibilities for the region.

Jon is an exceptional commercial leader and his high-level experience in growing revenue streams and market share will be invaluable as we broaden Blue Ant Medias business in this key region, says Carlyn Staudt, Head of Commissioning, Global Media & General Manager, Love Nature.

The team Jon has established brings together international sales experience and a keen knowledge of the brand, which sets up an incredible opportunity to grow a multi-faceted sales hub in Asia Pacific that places customers first with a myriad of content solutions.

Blue Ant Medias growing, high quality television portfolio and commitment to world class production and innovative distribution makes this an exciting opportunity, says Jon Penn, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Blue Ant Media Im passionate about building new businesses in the Asia Pacific region and Im looking forward to growing a dynamic team.

Jon brings a wealth of experience to this new leadership position. Most recently he was a partner with media VC  ACT Media Ventures and operated his own advisory business working with a range of local and international media clients advising on business growth strategy. In his prior advisory and agency work with Blue Ant Media, Jon was instrumental in the companys expansion in Australia, including the successful launch of the Love Nature pay TV channel on Fetch TV and FAST channels HauntTV and Nature Time on Ten Play. Prior to that he spent 10 years with BBC Studios, including three years as EVP Asia Pacific for Global Distribution where he oversaw all regional distribution including content sales, branded services and ancillary business lines. During his time at BBC Studios, he led partnership development in China with tech giants bilibili and Bytedance. He also established BBC Studios production presence in Australia, developed the global childrens power brand Bluey and oversaw the launch of BritBox Australia. Jon also worked at Fremantle for 11 years including 4 years as CEO Fremantle International, Asia Pacific.

Blue Ant Media is a privately held, international content producer, distributor and channel operator. The global media company owns and operates numerous production companies in North America and Asia-Pacific, creating content for broadcasters and streaming platforms in multiple genres including factual entertainment, natural history, documentary and adult animation. Its distribution business, Blue Ant International, offers a substantial catalogue of content, including one of the worlds largest 4K natural history offerings. Blue Ant Media operates linear and free streaming channels under several brands including Love Nature, Cottage Life, Smithsonian Channel (Canada), BBC Earth (Canada), HauntTV, Homeful, Drag Race Universe, CrimeTime, TotalCrime, HistoryTime and Love Pets. Blue Ant Media is headquartered in Toronto, with seven international offices in Los Angeles, New York, Singapore, Tokyo, London, Washington and Beijing.
The last 18 months or so have been a whirlwind for executive producer Jason Herbison.

First came the sad news in February 2022 that Channel 5 would be pulling out of Neighbours after 14 years, triggering a fan campaign to #SaveNeighbours and an online petition of over 50,000 signatures.

In March Network 10 sadly confirmed it had not found a broadcast partner and the show would end in late July after 37 years.

Filming concluded in June 22, a tight buffer by any measure in drama, with speeches, tears, a full network send-off for press and cast and crew largely entering unemployment. There had also been secret cameos filmed with original cast members.

It felt final speeches, hugs, goodbyes

We shut the show down. We all said, goodbye, he tells TV Tonight. We tried very hard to find another broadcast partner in the UK. But we didnt. So it felt final speeches, hugs, goodbyes. I really wrote that finale thinking to myself, This could be the last time anyone sees this show or these characters. So I put my heart and soul into it and tried to make it the best finale I possibly could, in the time that I had to do it. I do think it was pretty amazing.

When the finale screened to a rapturous applause from nostalgic fans, Herbison was already at work on his next miniseries projects Riptide and Heat, even utilising some defunct Neighbours sets.

There had been interest from other parties about continuing Neighbours, but nothing had been locked in. until a call from Fremantle CEO Greg Woods.

He called and said, Are you sitting down?'

Amazon had committed to reviving the show through Amazon Freevee internationally and 10 (Australia). Prime Video would also have ANZ rights.

There was an awful lot to discuss. First questions were, could we bring the show back? We didnt have the cast. We didnt have the street (location deals with home owners at Pin Oak Court had lapsed). We were preparing to lose the studios. So there were a lot of questions about could we even do it? It took a fair amount of time to work through, he recalls.

I had days to think about some cast.

Once we worked through everything and realised we had a deal, I had days to think about some cast. I was very keen -and Amazon and 10 also agreed- that as a wonderful mark of respect, it would be terrific to have some of the key heritage cast onboard for the announcement.

L to R: Jason Herbison, Guy Pearce, Annie Jones.

He immediately reached out to the Big 4  Jackie Woodburne, Alan Fletcher, Stefan Dennis and Ryan Moloney- in a surprise visit to their homes to secure them for an Amazon / 10 announcement in November.

I went to all their houses, in person. I said Im in the neighborhood. Can I drop in? Jackie was first and I said, Dont say anything! But she couldnt because her jaw was on the floor.

Then Stefan, Alan and Ryan. It was like The Amazing Race. They were all home, which I felt was quite prophetic. Imagine if they hadnt been!

I was very hurt and disappointed for the show

Herbison still remembers sitting at the AWGIE Awards in November as the announcement went live through socials, timed for both UK and Australia.

I was very upset at the AWGIEs because nobody mentioned the end of Neighbours. Not one word. I was very hurt and disappointed for the show that no one mentioned it. But the joyous end to the evening was that we announced that same night that the show was coming back.

Alan Fletcher, Ryan Moloney

But with only 4 cast confirmed, and no guarantee of securing the all-important streetscape, how would he approach the writing with story producer Sarah Mayberry?

The solution to his problem lay in a two year time leap.

I thought, Who do I think Im going to get back? Then I just began thinking about the return of the show. We knew that time would have passed on air. We knew a transmission gap might be at least a year. Therefore time will have moved on in the lives of the audience, he continues.

It still needs to be the show that the audience loves and remembers.

The very first thing was, I think it still needs to be the show that the audience loves and remembers. Obviously, we want to move it forward, make it even bigger and better, make it more progressive, make it all those things. But I wouldnt want to change the DNA of the show. Nor do Amazon or 10.

Xavier Molyneux, Mischa Barton

The time leap helps explain some of the new faces, who join familiar Ramsay Street residents, including Mischa Barton, best known for The OC and The Hills. Casting her was Herbisons idea as the show forges into the US and Canada via Freevee, but also plays into Neighbours tradition of celebrity guest cast.

Barton plays US character Reece Sinclair who stays at Lassiters hotel and meets Byron Stone (Xavier Molyneux, replacing Joe Klocek).

Its always a great device to bring in a new character and see the world through their eyes, he explains.

(Mischa) hadnt done a serial drama before, or done the pace of the serial drama. With anyone that comes to the show that hasnt done a serial drama before we do tell them its going to be fast and different to how youve worked before. But theres an adrenaline rush that comes with that.

She doesnt feel like a fish out of water

I have to say, I think her character arrives and feels very much part of the show. She doesnt feel like a fish out of water. She feels so much straightaway, in my view, like shes here in the world of Erinsborough.

By far the biggest shift will be a soapie shocker, evident to fans in the very first episode. say no more!

L to R : Naomi Rukavina., Marley Williams, Riley Bryant, Sara West.

Other new characters include the Varga-Murphy family, consisting of mums Remi (Naomi Rukavina) and Cara (Sara West) and teenage sons JJ (Riley Bryant) and Dex (Marley Williams) plus Harolds Cafe manager Haz (Shiv Palekar) and new Labrador pooch Trevor.

Were part of the popular culture in two countries

Herbison is hoping Neighbours 3.0 will please the loyal fanbase and win over some new ones in the process. Its the passion for the show that drove Amazons desire to hitch itself to the shows long history and repackage it for a digital audience. But can a soap work on a streaming platform?

Were part of the popular culture in two countries, and possibly more. People have grown up with us, they have a place in their hearts for us.

Its a brave new world and that makes it really exciting. Were obviously thrilled to be working with them, were absolutely thrilled that they came to us. They know what a beloved brand it is, particularly in the UK. So they saw the value in that, and have been wonderfully respectful to the show.

The show didnt end because it wasnt going well, he insists.

The show ended because Channel Five made an informed decision and they were incredibly respectful to us in that decision, and gave us a lot of notice on it. They just put their priorities elsewhere, which we had to understand.

Amazon, rightly I believe, saw the potential in the show that still had a very strong audience. Content is everywhere. But you cant buy brand loyalty.

Neighbours returns 4:30pm Monday on 10 (6:30pm replay on 10 Peach / September 25 on Prime Video).

Monday: TV Tonight goes behind the scenes of Neighbours.
A photograph taken on 13 September, 2023 in Paris shows information of an iPhone 12 reflected in the Apple logo, as French regulators ordered Apple to halt sales for emitting too much electromagnetic radiation (Getty Images)

Frances ban of iPhone 12 sales due to radiation fears could have Europe-wide implications, regulators in Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands have warned.

Apple will have to recall all iPhone 12 phones in France if corrective updates do not work, the countrys National Frequency Agency (ANFR) said on Tuesday, after tests revealed electromagnetic radiation that was 40 per cent above the legal limit.

On Wednesday, the Dutch digital watchdog said it was looking into the ANFR report and is seeking an explanation from the US tech giant.

A norm has been exceeded. Fortunately, there is no acute safety risk but we will very shortly have a talk with producer, Angeline van Dijk, an inspector with the Nederlandse Rijksinspectie Digitale Infrastructuur (RDI), told the Dutch newspaper Algemeen Dagblad.

The Netherlands attaches as much importance as France to safe use of mobile phones. Mobile phones must comply with European norms.

Belgium and Germany followed with statements of their own on Thursday, with network regulators saying that the French procedure could have a guiding function for the whole of Europe.

The Independent has reached out to Apple for comment.

Jean-Noel Barrot, Frances junior minister for digital economy, said on Tuesday that the ANFRs data would be shared with other EU member states, potentially leading to a snowball effect for Apple.

Apple is expected to respond within two weeks, he told the French newspaper Le Parisien.

If they fail to do so, I am prepared to order a recall of all iPhones 12 in circulation. The rule is the same for everyone, including the digital giants.

The iPhone 12 series of smartphones were already set to be discontinued following the unveiling of the iPhone 15 on Tuesday, meaning any sales ban would not have a significant impact on Apples phone sales.

A continent-wide recall would have considerable implications for the worlds richest company, however, if a solution is not found.
Jason and Cathy, foster carers from Portadown, Co Armagh, with Geraldine Mulholland, Head of Service for Fostering in Southern area. (Photo: Photo courtesy of the SHSCT)

Jason and Cathy Gordon have won the Excellence in Foster Care Award after ten years of top class caring for children they have fostered.

-

-

The Gordons foster alongside their children Daniel, Molly and Joel. For the last ten years they have looked after children who needed short-term foster care  including short breaks and emergency placements. Cathy continues to support parents where children have returned home, acting as part of their support network. She maintains contact with young people who have moved onto other foster homes.

A spokesperson for the Southern Health and Social Care Trust said: The family goes above and beyond to find ways to build relationships with young people, having a home where the children feel loved, unique and special.

Kathleen Toner (Director of The Fostering Network in NI) is pictured with Portadown couple Jason and Cathy who were winners of Excellence in Foster Care Award. Also pictured is Kerrylee Weatherall (Interim Director, Childrens Community Services  representing HSC NI Foster Care).

"Cathy has offered her wisdom and advice to newly approved foster carers, helping to support them at the beginning of their journey. The empathy and compassion the family show to everyone around them is amazing, and their positive energy rubs off on anyone they meet.

Sharon, their social worker said: Cathy and Jasons attitude towards fostering and caring for children who have experienced trauma, is truly inspirational. They see the good in everyone and are keen to explore the hidden talents and strengths of all the children they have cared for.

Foster carers from across NI came together at the weekend for the NI Foster Care Awards at the Hilton Hotel, Belfast hosted by The Fostering Network in partnership with HSC NI Foster Care.

In their 17th year, the awards recognise the pivotal role foster carers have in providing stability, love and care for children and young people in foster care. A number of HSC NI foster carers and kinship foster carers received special recognition for their outstanding contribution to fostering.

Kerrylee Weatherall, Interim Director of Childrens Community Services who represented HSC NI Foster Care at the event said: The Northern Ireland Foster Care Awards provides an opportunity for us to celebrate the enormous contribution that all foster carers make to the lives of our children and young people. We are delighted to have so many HSC NI foster carers receiving the recognition they deserve. Their continued commitment to providing the best care and support for children and young people in foster care is quite simply inspirational, thank you to each and every one of them.

Story continues

"Our foster carers are all extraordinary people, giving of themselves every day to provide a safe, loving and nurturing environment to the children and young people who need this. We hope this event goes some way to showing how much we value our carers and appreciate the work they do and the kindness they show every day.

Kathleen Toner, Director of The Fostering Network Northern Ireland, said: The awards are the absolute highlight of our year when we get together with people from fostering families, and fostering services, across NI to highlight the incredibly positive impact of foster care. Fostering a child can be transformational for that child and we are privileged to support more than 3,300 foster carers and kinship foster carers in Northern Ireland, who care for more than eighty percent of children in care.

"As chair of the awards panel, it is always a pleasure to meet the nominees and listen to their experiences, each one as inspiring as the next. The awards are also our opportunity to raise the publics awareness of the importance of foster care for children in our communities and to thank all those who daily make a child feel safe, secure and loved.

With an increase in the number of children and young people coming into care, the need for more foster carers is greater than ever. For more information Call HSC NI Foster Care on 0800 0720 137 or visit adoptionandfostercare.hscni.net
Police are questioning the father of 10-year-old Sara Sharif and two other people in custody, who are being held on suspicion of murder.

They landed in the UK from Pakistan at Gatwick Airport on Wednesday and were immediately arrested by officers after disembarking the plane.

Here is a timeline of the events in the case so far.

 August 9

Saras father Urfan Sharif, 41, his partner Beinash Batool, 29, and Urfan Sharifs brother, Faisal Malik, 28, travel to Islamabad, Pakistan, with five children aged between one and 13 years old.

Urfan Sharif (left) and Beinash Batool (Surrey Police/PA)

 August 10

Officers from Surrey Police are called from Pakistan by Mr Sharif at about 2.50am to a semi-detached property on Hammond Road in Woking, Surrey, where Sara is found dead. A murder investigation is launched.

 August 15

A post-mortem examination is unable to establish the cause of Saras death and further tests are carried out, but the examination shows the child had suffered multiple and extensive injuries which were likely to have been caused over a sustained and extended period of time.

 August 18

Surrey Police say they would like to speak to Urfan Sharif, Beinash Batool and Faisal Malik in relation to the investigation, with a search for them under way.

 August 19

The Associated Press news agency reports that Pakistani police in the eastern province of Punjab are seeking to arrest Mr Sharif in connection with Saras death, with his family home believed to be in the city of Jhelum.

Officer Imran Ahmed said police found evidence that he had briefly returned to Jhelum, before leaving and disappearing.

 August 20

Surrey County Council confirms to the PA news agency Sara was known to the local authority. The search for her father continues.

 August 24

Rawalpindi Region police chief Khurram Ali says the force is close to locating Mr Sharif, Ms Batool and Mr Malik, after they had interrogated Mr Sharifs father, brother and uncle.

Police in the UK issue a fresh appeal for information in the case.

Story continues

Sara Sharifs body was found at her home in Woking (Surrey Police/PA)

 August 27

Speaking to the Sunday Times, Saras grandfather Muhammad Sharif, 68, urges the three individuals to hand themselves in to police.

 August 29

An inquest into Saras death is opened at Surrey Coroners Court, and hears the precise cause of her death is not yet ascertained but is likely to be unnatural.

 September 6

In footage sent to broadcasters including the BBC and Sky, Ms Batool, accompanied by Mr Sharif, speaks publicly for the first time since Saras death and describes it as an incident, saying they are willing to co-operate with the UK authorities and fight our case in court.

 September 9

A police spokesman in Jhelum says Mr Sharif and Ms Batool are in hiding and 10 close relatives have been taken into custody for questioning, including Saras grandfather Muhammad Sharif.

 September 11

The BBC reports that five children have been taken from the home of Muhammad Sharif, with dozens of police officers raiding the property in Jhelum.

Eyewitness accounts say officers broke CCTV cameras at the property, stopped traffic and prevented passers-by from filming. The children were later returned.

The whereabouts of Urfan Sharif, Ms Batool and Mr Malik are still unknown.

 September 12

A court rules that the five children will be sent temporarily to a government childcare facility in Pakistan.

In the UK, Surrey Police say they are working to secure the safe return of the siblings from Pakistan.

 September 13

Urfan Sharif, Beinash Batool and Faisal Malik land in the UK at Gatwick Airport on an Emirates flight from Sialkot, Pakistan, via Dubai, and are arrested on suspicion of murder immediately after leaving the plane.

Sialkot police spokesman Khan Mudassir said the three individuals were handed over to the Pakistani Federal Investigation Agency.
Rafael Martinelli said he felt like garbage following the alleged assault on Saturday night. Credit: Rafael Martinelli.

A 35-year-old musician has alleged he was harassed and assaulted by another man in Camden on Saturday evening (September 9) - and that police refused to do anything other than give the man a ride home.

Rafael Martinelli, who lives in Brazil but is visiting the UK, said he was walking along Buck Street when he noticed an older man punching another persons car.

He claims he was told by a group of people nearby that the man had attacked the vehicle after its driver had used a road largely closed for Camden Music Festival.

In footage taken by Mr Martinelli, the man can be heard demanding the drivers licence, and appearing to lash out at the vehicle.

Mr Martinelli said that, following the initial incident, the man altercations with at least one other person, before turning his attention his way.

I got myself trapped with him, so when I saw me in that situation, I started to leave the area but eventually when I got round the corner I didnt notice but I got stuck between him and a bar, Mr Martinelli said.

The footage appears to show the man following Mr Martinelli and repeatedly threatening him, saying if one of us has a fight one of us is going to die, and its not going to be me.

He is further heard telling Mr Martinelli London is not your city, among other things, before he seems to punch the musician, knocking him over a set of chairs outside a bar.

Mr Martinelli said he was told by staff working in the premises he could stay inside as he called the police.

When officers attended, Mr Martinelli said nothing happened.

I told them everything and they said okay, we will send him home, he said.

That left me with a strange feeling that a guy can do all this and he gets a ride home. His punishment is a ride home.

When LondonWorld put Mr Martinellis story to the Met Police, a spokesperson initially said officers attended and no offences were alleged, with no injuries.

Mr Martinelli contested this, saying he told police he wanted to press charges, but was told no offence had been committed.

Story continues

I said I want to press charges, but was told I couldnt, he said.

The police have since updated their original comment to note they have been made aware that one of the people alleges that he was assaulted and are making efforts to contact him with a view to progressing any criminal allegations.

Mr Martielli said while the incident was ridiculous, and at times felt like a cartoon, it made him feel like garbage in that moment.

The worst part is feeling like the guy really ended up getting what he wanted, he said, adding: The feeling is humiliating. You feel like you are a piece of garbage.

Having wanted to stay in London until the end of the month, he said he has now bought tickets to head home to Brazil, as he does not wish to stay in the city any longer.

A Met spokesperson said: Police were called at approximately 8.45pm on Saturday, September 9 to reports of an altercation between two people in Buck Street, NW1.

Officers attended and spoke to both parties; no offences were alleged and no one was injured. There were no arrests.

Police have subsequently been made aware that one of the people alleges that he was assaulted and are making efforts to contact him with a view to progressing any criminal allegations.
By Yara Nardi

LAMPEDUSA, Italy (Reuters) -The small Italian island of Lampedusa is being overwhelmed by the number of migrants arriving on its shores, its mayor said on Thursday, after thousands of people landed from North Africa on flimsy boats over the past two days.

Lampedusa sits in the Mediterranean between Tunisia, Malta and the larger Italian island of Sicily and is a first port of call for many migrants seeking to reach the European Union.

"In the past 48 hours, around 7,000 people have arrived in Lampedusa, which has always welcomed them with open arms," mayor Filippo Mannino told Italy's RTL 102.5 radio.

"However, we have now reached a point of no return and the island is in crisis," he said.

"Europe and the Italian state must step in immediately with a rapid support operation and swift transfer of people."

The island normally has a population of just over 6,000.

A total of 387 migrants disembarked from nine craft on Thursday, Italian news agency Agi reported, adding that they were believed to have sailed from the Tunisian port of Sfax.

The arrivals are a headache for Giorgia Meloni's right-wing government which took power last October with a promise to crack down on immigration.

Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini decried a lack of support from fellow EU members, calling the arrivals "an act of war" and "the death of Europe".

Meloni said at a conference in Budapest that some legal migration could benefit Europe economically, but could not be a solution to the continent's demographic crisis.

The EU's migration commissioner, Ylva Johansson, said on social media platform X: "We are seeing a really challenging situation in Lampedusa. This is a European matter that needs a European response."

BAKING SUN

Lampedusa has a migrant reception centre with an official capacity of only 400. It was housing an estimated 4,000 people on Wednesday. Dozens of migrants jumped the fence to escape the overcrowded facility, where a scuffle broke out.

Story continues

Authorities are organising some transfers to Sicily to ease the situation. Migrants could be seen on the quayside, with towels over their heads to shield themselves from the late summer sun, as they waited to board ferries.

Naby Bangoura, from Guinea, said after his arrival on a boat from Tunisia: "Italy is a good place, we have been well received and given things to eat."

He said he had been at sea for two days after setting sail on a boat carrying around 35 people.

Preliminary data from Spain, another country on the EU's southern flank, showed the number of migrant arrivals to the Canary Islands more than trebled to 2,891 people in the first two weeks of September.

Spain says instability in Senegal is one of the factors fuelling the increase.

The EU border agency FRONTEX said: "The Central Mediterranean remains the most active route into the EU this year, with almost 114,300 detections reported by national authorities in the first eight months of 2023. This is the highest total on this route for this period since 2016."

It added: "Increased migratory pressure may persist in the coming months with smugglers offering lower prices departing from Libya and Tunisia amid fierce competition among the criminal groups."

Matteo Villa, a migration data analysis expert from the ISPI think-tank in Milan, said Lampedusa was under particular pressure because 90% of migrant boats in the last three months came from Tunisia, the closest African country, and because there are fewer search and rescue missions intercepting migrants at sea.

Meloni's government has restricted the activities of charity rescue boats, impounding their vessels, banning them from conducting multiple rescues and making them travel longer distances to disembark migrants.

Italy has sought to improve ties with Tunisia and in July Tunis and the European Union signed a pact aimed at stemming migrant flows but that has had no immediate impact.

A government source said the pact was still not being applied and Rome was working with the EU to accelerate procedures that would allow it to take effect.

(Additional reporting by Gavin Jones and Alvise Armellini in Rome, Federico Maccioni in Milan and Corina Pons in Madrid, Writing by Keith Weir; Editing by Janet Lawrence)
(Al-Masar TV/AFP via Getty Images)

The King has said he and the Queen are desperately saddened following the horrific flooding in Libya, as the mayor of the city of Derna warned up to 20,000 could have died there.

Search teams today continued to comb streets and wrecked buildings for bodies in the coastal city that was at the centre of catastrophic floods sparked by Storm Daniel on Sunday.

Two dams collapsed and unleashed a massive flash flood that swept multi-storey buildings into the sea with sleeping families inside.

Mayor Abdulmenam Al-Ghaithi told al-Arabiya TV he estimated between 18,000 and 20,000 people could have died based on the number of wiped-out districts in the city.

More than 5,000 people have been confirmed dead and at least 9,000 are known to be missing.

At least 30,000 people have been displaced and as much as a quarter of the city, which had a population of around 90,000 has disappeared, emergency officials said.

(AP)

King Charles reaffirmed the UKs support for the country in a message sent to the head of Libyas Presidential Council, Dr Mohamed Menfi, yesterday evening.

It read: Your Excellency, my wife and I are so desperately saddened by the devastating impact and loss of life caused by Storm Daniel and the subsequent floods.

We mourn with all those who have lost their loved ones, and continue to pray for everyone whose lives and livelihoods have been affected by the horrific floods.

I admire greatly all those who are engaged tirelessly in the rescue efforts in such dire conditions, and praise their selfless bravery.

I know that my Government stands ready to support your needs. Charles R.

His message comes after the UK Government announced support worth up to 1 million.

The Foreign Office said the funding was an initial package to provide assistance for those most affected by the devastation.

Bodies are everywhere, inside houses, in the streets, at sea. Wherever you go, you find dead men, women, and children, Emad al-Falah, an aid worker from Benghazi, said.

Story continues

(AP)

Waves measuring 23ft high destroyed everything in their path, Yann Fridez, head of the delegation of the International Committee for The Red Cross in Libya, said. The human toll is enormous, he said.

The sea is constantly dumping dozens of bodies, Hichem Abu Chkiouat, minister of civil aviation in the administration that runs eastern Libya, said, adding that reconstruction would cost billions of dollars.

Libyas neighbours, Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia, as well as Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, have sent rescue teams and humanitarian aid.

President Joe Biden also said the United States is sending emergency funds to relief organisations and coordinating with the Libyan authorities and the UN to provide additional support.

But the arrival of aid has been hampered due to the destruction of roads leading to the city.

Bridges over the Derna river that links the citys eastern and western parts have also collapsed, according to the UNs migration agency. There was significant damage to roads and telecoms networks.

The country is divided by rival governments on the east and west, and there has been neglect of infrastructure in many areas.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson co-chaired a briefing Thursday on the agency's efforts to study unidentified anomalous phenomena. NASA has appointed a director of UAP research, but said the person would not be publicly identified. File Photo by Joe Marino/UPI

Sept. 14 (UPI) -- NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said Thursday that the U.S. space agency has appointed an unidentified director to oversee the space agency's probe of the origins of unidentified anomalous phenomena, or UAP.

Nelson said during a livestream event on a report from an independent study team that a NASA team had not found any evidence that UAPs, commonly known as UFOs had "extraterrestrial origin" but said the top takeaway from the independent study team report is that there's much more to learn about the mysterious unidentified anomalous phenomena.

"We don't know what these UAP are, but we're going to try to find out. We will be transparent about what we do find. Whatever we find we're going to tell you."

"We're in a world of discovery and we, NASA, have taken for the first time concrete action to seriously look into UAP," Nelson added.

NASA's Nicola Fox said the person has already been appointed, but will not be publicly identified.

An independent study team issued a report commissioned to inform NASA on what data to collect to shed light on UAPs. Photo by Joe Marino/UPI

Nelson said due to the sheer number of galaxies in the vast universe the mathematical probability that there's an Earth-like planet out there supporting life is very high according to NASA scientists.

"If you ask me do I believe there's life in a universe that it's so vast that it's hard for me to comprehend how big it is, my personal answer is yes," Nelson said. "We will use AI and machine learning to search the skies for anomalies."

Astrophysicist David Spergel, who chaired the NASA independent study team, said that with rigorous methodology and public engagement NASA can contribute to the government's efforts to understand UAPs.

"The current approach to UAP data collection has led to limited data. Once we have a good data set AI and other tools will be helpful in understanding UAPs," Spergel said.

NASA's Daniel Evans, a member of the team studying UAP, said that "understanding UAP is vital for several reasons."

Story continues

"It advances our understanding of the world around us. The study aim is to enhance situational awareness. The presence of UAPs raises serious questions about the safety of our skies," he said.

NASA said in a statement the report "aims to inform NASA on what possible data could be collected in the future to shed light on the nature and origin of UAP. The report is not a review or assessment of previous unidentifiable observations."

"The UAP independent study team's main focus for the report is to come up with a way in which to evaluate and study UAPs going forward by using data, technology and the tools of science," NASA said.

NASA held a hearing in May on the results of a seven-month investigation into the UAPs.

University of Delaware astrophysicist Federica Bianco, one of 16 members of the independent study team, said then that NASA has a problem with data analysis and management when it comes to the UAPs.

She said that the scientific method requires UAP data that meet the standard.

"Their collection is inconsistent," Bianco said.

At the May hearing, witnesses, including naval aviators, described UAP objects moving "at considerable speed, without discernible means of propulsion."

Spergel is president of the Simons Foundation and founding director of its Flatiron Institute for Computational Astrophysics.

Other members of the independent study team include former astronaut Scott Kelly and Warren Randolph, deputy executive director of the Federal Aviation Administration's Accident Investigation and Prevention for Aviation Safety department.

NASA said it doesn't actively search for UAPs, but makes data collected through satellites and other means available to researchers.

The agency defines UAPs as "observations of events in the sky that cannot be identified as aircraft or known natural phenomena from a scientific perspective."

The independent study team's report was commissioned to examine UAPs from a scientific perspective and to create a roadmap for how to use data and scientific tools to advance the understanding of UAPs.
Young people protest over the lack of action against climate change outside the Scottish Parliament (Picture: Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

I finally realised what links the news stories that especially intrigued me this summer  the ones I refreshed webpages to find out the latest updates, multiple times a day. They are live stories, generally, that have no known ending at time of writing  thats always a hook to come back to hear more  but I noticed another emerging theme.

Everything is falling apart around us. Its structural instability summer. First there was the Titan submersible, built from hubris and cracking carbon fibre, failing somewhere over the oceans most macabre tourist site, the wreck of the Titanic. There was the snapped cable of the Pakistani cable car, an essential component of an essential journey taking children to school over the barrier of a deep ravine; a story that ended, blessedly, with a heroic rescue.

And as a grand finale, Raac: the crumbling concrete that riddles the UKs buildings to an extent were yet to discover, and the reason, I suspect, my local shop sold out of Aeros on the weekend the news bubbled up. Something to nibble on while considering which of the flat-roofed concrete buildings in our lives have been vulnerable to collapse on a rainy day. Something sweet to stave off the building panic at how topsy-turvy this land is.

Recently I happened to catch a caller to Jeremy Vines BBC Radio2 show asking why we cant just blast our rubbish into space. There are thousands of pieces of debris left by earthlings out there already, bits of broken satellites and the like, but the answer essentially is that it is easier to try to mitigate our waste output than expend the massive energy needed to propel it away from Earth.

In general, it seems out of sight, out of mind no longer works for waste. Wealthy countries which send their refuse to be processed by developing nations are no longer as inoculated as once they were from the impacts of environmental change. Save the Children says the climate crisis disproportionately impacts those in poverty in two key ways  lower quality housing is more vulnerable to the effects of extreme weather and the impact on crop yields causes scarcity and drives up prices, a contributing factor to the current cost-of-living crisis.

Story continues

No longer can the climate emergency be brushed off by those above the equator as a distant threat for someone in another part of the world to deal with. There is now nowhere on Earth not feeling the impact, no country untouched by the changes in temperature and extreme weather phenomena that have come quicker than scientists once pessimistically predicted. Hard indeed not to succumb to doomism, as my editor Ian Johnston wrote last month, although his point was to use this as a spur to greater action.

I caught up with my friend and colleague at Gutter magazine, the poet Shehzar Doja, who splits his time between Scotland, Luxembourg, and Bangladesh. He is drawn to write about subjects others might throw up their hands and despair at, including environmentalism, genocide, and displaced peoples, but holds the unequivocal belief that poetry has power to change the world.

Notable among his work, he was invited to write a poem to mark the opening of COP26 in Glasgow, read in Holyrood at last years Poetry in Parliament event, and, alongside James Byrne, edited the anthology, I am a Rohingya: Poetry from the Camps and Beyond, an English language testimony of the worlds largest refugee camp, which was taken by one of the contributors to the Hague. In such a situation, as a tool of communication and expression, poetry indeed has power.

Its all change in Shehzars own life, as he recently moved away from Glasgow, his home base of a few years where he has been a regular fixture on the literary scene. I asked what was next for his own work. At this current moment, I am resting and dreaming of new projects to come. I hope I am able to generate new ones that can ideally instill and inspire hope in others to believe that actual change is possible.

Last week Shehzar had the opportunity to converse with Emmanuel Macron. They met on an unusual vessel, the Flech DOr, the largest panshi boat still in operation, as it made its way down the Turag River, a trip organised by the non-governmental organisation Friendship. It was the first visit from a French president to Bangladesh since the 1990s (the last being Francois Mitterrand) and, on this occasion, he was engaging in discussions around climate change and French-Bangladeshi cooperation.

Shehzar found Macron dignified, courteous to all around, and deeply engaged in his conversations. However, he told me: Events like these are important for raising awareness but what's more important is to see if they are followed up by any concrete action. Of course, in the case of the climate emergency, there is that imperative emergency needed.

I asked what gives Shehzar confidence for the future. I was extremely pleased to see so many youth engagement initiatives. That to me inspires a great hope. I have to agree. Seeing the determination of younger generations to tackle environmental issues, and their strong turnout at climate marches, suggests not all is lost. As tempting as it is to simply give up and consider going out with a bang, part of the problem, in fact, might be swallowing the political pill that insists change is pointless to strive for and succumbing to pessimism.
Junior Roldan (Twitter)

The body of an Ecuadorian gang leader has been taken from its resting place in a Colombian cemetery, police have said.

Junior Roldan was a senior member of the Los Choneros prison gang in Ecuador, before being shot dead in May.

His remains were placed in a wall vault in the town of Envigado after no one had claimed his body, but they have since disappeared, the BBC reported.

Police told local media that the cemetery was broken into overnight, but it was not clear if Roldans body was specifically targeted.

Los Choneros is an infamous prison gang in Ecuador but Roldan fled to Colombia after two attempts on his life. The gang engages in drug trafficking and extortion.

In the first, he was shot and injured in March by members of rival gang Los Lobos, [The Wolves].

He also survived another attack in which drones laden with explosives were set off above the prison wing he was inside.

After being released from prison, he was later found shot in the head in a wooded area on May 6, in a killing police suspect may have been carried out by his bodyguard in a bid to take the cash he fled with.

No arrests have been made in connection with the murder.

Roldan was identified by his tattoos, and was buried on May 18, but on Tuesday workers discovered that the vault was empty.

He was known to have many enemies, because Los Choneros directed many criminal operations from behind bars.

It is also thought to have been behind some of the most gruesome prison fights in Ecuador, in which dozens of inmates were killed and even beheaded.
Holywood in County Down has become the first community in Northern Ireland to welcome new cash services in the towns local Post Office. Pictured is the Holywood EPO counter

Holywood in County Down has become the first community in Northern Ireland to welcome new cash services in the towns local Post Office.

Alongside traditional services offered by the Post Office, residents and businesses visiting the towns location on High Street will now find a dedicated priority counter service, providing faster access to banking services for customers. These will support individuals and small businesses, offering a more private space to carry out transactions and less queuing time. The service, initially being piloted, is the first in Northern Ireland and is part of a wider change to protect access to cash in communities across the UK.

The enhancement has been delivered, in partnership with the Post Office, by Cash Access UK a new not-for-profit company established by 10 major high street banks to protect access to cash services.

Northern Irelands first enhanced Post Office opens in Holywood as Banking Hub location in Kilkeel confirmed. The new Banking Hub in Kilkeel will be located at 47 Greencastle Street and a counter service run by the Post Office, where customers of all major banks and building societies can withdraw and deposit cash and carry out regular banking transactions. It will also offer a community banker service where customers can talk to their own banking provider about more complicated issues, Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm. Community Bankers will work on rotation, with a different bank or building society available on each day of the week (Photo: ALAN WATSON PHOTOGRAPHY)

The new services in Holywood follow a recommendation by LINK, the UKs cash machine and cash access network, that additional services should be introduced to support consumers and businesses.

Gareth Oakley, chief executive, Cash Access UK, said: We know cash use is declining, however, not everyone is comfortable using contactless cards or shopping online. Were pleased to be working with the banking industry and to be delivering new solutions on the high street. In future, towns across Northern Ireland will see changes within their community, which may mean a Banking Hub, an enhanced Post Office service or another form of new cash service. Holywood is the first, but by no means the last.

Holywood in County Down has become the first community in Northern Ireland to welcome new cash services in the towns local Post Office, the enhancement has been delivered by Cash Access UK in partnership with the Post Office. Cash Access UK are a new not-for-profit company established by 10 major high street banks to protect access to cash services. Pictured is Gareth Oakley, chief executive, Cash Access UK

Ross Borkett, head of banking at Post Office, continued: We are delighted to be working in partnership with Cash Access UK to deliver the first enhanced Post Office services in Northern Ireland, further providing customers of Holywood with access to cash services. Post Offices are integral to the survival of many small and medium enterprises. Over 1 billion in cash is deposited over the counter every month by businesses across the UK and we are acutely aware that small business owners need to minimise time away from their business so they can continue selling their goods and services. We look forward to working with Cash Access UK and seeing the continued rollout of enhanced banking services across our network.

Story continues

The enhancement also comes ahead of the forthcoming opening of a new Banking Hub in Kilkeel, which will be located at 47 Greencastle Street. Banking hubs offer a counter service run by the Post Office, where customers of all major banks and building societies can withdraw and deposit cash and carry out regular banking transactions. It will also offer a community banker service where customers can talk to their own banking provider about more complicated issues, Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm. Community Bankers will work on rotation, with a different bank or building society available on each day of the week:

Monday  Barclays

Tuesday  Ulster Bank

Wednesday  Santander

Thursday  Bank of Ireland UK

Friday  Danske Bank

Finding a suitable location is a significant step forward and the team at Cash Access UK are now working hard to secure planning consents and get the new premises ready. They will update the community on progress and an opening date as soon as they can.

In 2020, the village of Millisle in County Down was chosen as a location as part of the Community Access to Cash Pilots. For over a year, residents and local businesses participated in a unique trial to understand ways that local cash access could be protected, as more consumers use alternatives to cash and businesses struggled to access deposit services.

Chris Hazzard, South Down MP, added: This is welcome progress in bringing vital cash and banking services to the community of Kilkeel. I look forward to the Hubs opening.
HA NOI  The Ha Noi Industrial and Export Processing Zone Authority on Wednesday granted an investment licence to Taiwanese Inventec Technology Vietnam Co to develop an equipment manufacturing plant in the city's Phu Xuyen District.

The plant, expected to cost US$125 million, covers 16.1ha at the Ha Noi Southern Supporting Industrial Park, online newspaper kinhtedothi.vn reported.

It will produce several products for export such as smartphones, servers, computer peripheral, electronic circuit boards, adapters for other smart devices. It has a total design capacity of 32 million products each year.

During the granting ceremony, representatives of Inventec Technology Vietnam Co expressed his company's confidence in investing in the park.

He also appreciated local authorities to improve the investment environment, proactively investing in industrial infrastructure, connecting transportation systems, and quickly resolving investment procedures. This has helped Ha Noi become an attractive investment destination.

For his part, head of the Ha Noi Industrial and Export Processing Zone Authority Le Quang Long asked the investor to ensure the implementation of the project as scheduled.

He also requested the People's Committee of Phu Xuyen District to coordinate and create favourable conditions for the investor during project implementation and support local labour recruitment.

To date, Ha Noi-based industrial parks are home to 709 valid projects, including 302 foreign-invested projects, with a combined investment capital of over $6.4 billion, according to the Ha Noi Industrial and Export Processing Zone Authority.

The Ha Noi Southern Supporting Industrial Park alone lured three projects thus far, the authority said.  VNS
Viet Nam has rapidly emerged as a vibrant player on the global stage, with robust economic growth and a burgeoning digital ecosystem. On the sidelines of the Vietnam Innovation Award last week, Viet Nam News reporter Mai Huong spoke to Simon Milner, Vice President of Public Policy for APAC at Meta, about Viet Nam's innovation landscape and the digital transformation journey of Vietnamese businesses in recent years.

How do you assess the innovation ecosystem in Viet Nam and the digital transformation process of Vietnamese businesses in recent years?

As the new Southeast Asian tiger economy, Viet Nam has shown robust growth in the last few years and has emerged to come to the forefront of international trade.

In 2022, according to Bain & Company, there were 60 million digital consumers in Viet Nam, which equates to 80 per cent of the population 15+. The growth has steadied from the pandemic years, and that means the opportunity outweighs growing uncertainty. Furthermore, with a young population of over 97 million and a median age of 30 years old, Viet Nam is poised to take the digital economy lead in Southeast Asia. Viet Nam's pool of talent is young, hardworking and has an appetite for new technologies and innovation and can learn very quickly.

Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are central to Viet Nams economic growth, providing significant contributions to job creation, export promotion and poverty reduction. As such, we are committed to help unlock growth for Viet Nam as it moves toward growing its position as an innovative digital economy through Industrial Revolution 4.0.

We are very positive about the digital ecosystem in Viet Nam.

Vietnamese Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung said: We're only just starting, we have a lot to improve. I think that ambition is great to have. In our company, we have a saying, which is this journey is only 1 per cent finished. That statement, I think the British English expression is having a constant appetite for progress and not resting on your laurels. And actually, it implies that were not doing the necessary tasks, and we must take action otherwise we'll fall behind. So it's not just about the dynamism and it's also the ambition that is very impressive.

What should the government and businesses themselves do to help domestic enterprises participate in the global value chain and accelerate the national digital transformation?

Meta is impressed with the thriving digital ecosystem that Viet Nam's hard-working and creative entrepreneurs have built with support from smart government policies as well as the Government's efforts to realise Viet Nam's goals on digital transformation and Industry 4.0 vision.

Viet Nam is one of the leading countries in the world in Business Conversation and has a lot of growth potential. We have also continuously invested in artificial intelligence (AI) to develop new tools that help businesses create more value. So I think, to continue to focus on innovation, there are a lot of new technologies from AI to virtual reality, semiconductors... and some of Meta's AI discovery tools like Advantage Plus are something Vietnamese businesses can take advantage of and anticipate trends.

I believe that keeping the younger generation excited about new technologies is an important factor.

What role do large domestic enterprises and big foreign corporations like Meta play in promoting innovation in Viet Nam and spreading the spirit of innovation to the business community?

In 2019, Viet Nam launched its Make in Viet Nam strategy to develop its domestic ICT industry by shifting from assembly and outsourcing to one with strong local capabilities for product creation and design. Earlier this year, Viet Nam set its target of growing its digital economy from the current 8.2 per cent of GDP to 20 per cent by 2025, transforming from low-tech manufacturing to a service-oriented economy.

Everywhere you turn, digital transformation is happening. This process is expedited by the COVID-19 pandemic. No one can afford to ignore the digital transformation trend and the rewards it can get from riding this wave. As a digital native company, Meta is committed to supporting businesses in its digital transformation process, especially those vulnerable groups such as micro and small businesses, women-led businesses, or businesses in remote areas.

We want to partner with organisations, including the National Innovation Centre (NIC) and various government entities, including city governments like a Nang City, to understand the challenges they face and explore ways in which we can provide assistance.

In the last five years in Viet Nam, Meta has provided digital skills training for 580,000 students, close to 25,000 teachers, and 64,000 small and medium-sized businesses. Meta wants to help support the business community to thrive. To date, Meta has supported over 85,000 SMEs via the cooperation with Viet Nam Chamber of Commerce and Industry and other partners.

On August 15 this year, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sport and Tourism, Meta and the BHD Company launched the Let's Feast Viet Nam on Netflix and other online platforms. Its an epic series which follows 14 talented content creators from six different Asian countries on their amazing adventure in Viet Nam.

In 2022, Meta together with the Ministry of Planning and Investment, launched the Viet Nam Innovation Challenge. The impressive figures of over 750 applications underscore the programme's reach and attractiveness. We look forward to the awarded solutions being adopted widely, generating more value and helping shape the innovation ecosystem in Viet Nam. Meta is confident that these solutions, as well as those in future annual challenges, will serve as catalysts to invigorate and expedite Viet Nams digital transformation and boost the competitiveness of over 800,000 small and medium-sized enterprises across Viet Nam.  VNS
HA NOI  The market finished lower on Wednesday, as selling pressure outweighed strong cash flows and a large amount of foreign capital was withdrawn from the southern bourse.

The VN-Index on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE) decreased by 7.05 points, or 0.57 per cent, to close the day at 1,238.39 points. It gained nearly 22 points in the previous session.

On the southern market, 215 stocks fell, while 123 inched higher. Liquidity, however, soared to nearly VN30 trillion (US$1.23 billion), an increase of 23.3 per cent over Tuesday's trade. This was equivalent to a trading volume of over 1.26 billion shares.

The southern bourse also saw a great outflow of more than VN1.2 trillion from the foreign capital, of which, nearly VN795 billion was withdrawn from the VN30 basket.

The VN30-Index, which tracked the 30 biggest stocks on HoSE, dropped 7.88 points, or 0.63 per cent, to 1,247.95 points. Nineteen ticker symbols of the VN30 basket went down, while nine stocks ticked up, and two ended unchanged.

Saigon-Hanoi Securities JSC (SHS) said that in the short term, the market is likely to surpass the resistance level of 1,250 points in the future. However, there is also a possibility that the accumulative trend will be longer, the securities firm added.

"For the mid-term, we have assessed that the market's uptrend will maintain well, but the market is facing two important resistance levels of 1,250 points and 1,300 points. The fluctuation and accumulative formations of the VN-Index is normal and necessary to help the market keep its uptrend," according to SHS.

Leading the downtrend was Vinhomes (VHM). Shares of the property developer decreased 2.62 per cent.

Other big names in the real estate industry facing big losses were Vingroup (VIC), down 1.82 per cent, Novaland (NVL) down 4.77 per cent, Development Investment Construction JSC (DIG) dropped 1.9 per cent, and at Xanh Group (DXG) fell 2.24 per cent.

Also weighing on the sentiment, shares of Vietcombank (VCB), Vinamilk (VNM), Hoa Phat Group (HPG) and Vietnam Rubber Group (GVR) fell at least 0.9 per cent.

The index pared losses on gains of some large-cap stocks, with PV Gas (GAS) being the biggest winner, up more than 2.8 per cent.

On the Ha Noi Stock Exchange (HNX), the HNX-Index also ended lower at 256.11 points, a decline of 0.21 points, or 0.08 per cent.

During the trading day, over 127.1 million shares were traded on HNX, worth nearly VN2.8 trillion.

Meanwhile, foreign investors were net buyers on the northern market as they net bought a value of nearly VN10 billion.  VNS
HCM CITY  The HCM City Union of Business Associations and Saigon Giai Phong newspaper honoured 90 businesses for their efforts to achieve green growth at a ceremony on September 13.

Nguyen Ngoc Hoa, the association chairman, said the title of HCM City Green Businesses conferred on them seeks to acknowledge and encourage businesses in the city that comply with waste treatment regulations, make environment-friendly products, exhibit environmental responsibility, and pursue green growth and sustainable development.

The title, unveiled in May this year, attracted 120 enterprises in two industries, manufacturing and trading-service-real estate, and 90 were chosen through strict selection criteria, according to the organisers.

They included Phu Nhuan Jewelry JSC, Saigon Thuong Tin Commercial Joint Stock Bank, Saigon Union of Trading Co-orperatives, An Thien Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Saigon Trading Group, Tan Quang Minh Manufacture and Trading Co., Ltd, Imex Pan Pacific Co.,Ltd, and Cholimex Food Joint Stock Company.

These are businesses that have been making great efforts to implement green transformation, invest in technology reform, adopt green criteria in their production and trading, comply with environmental regulations, helping the city build a clean, environmentally friendly living and working environment, Hoa said.

Vo Van Hoan, vice chairman of the city People's Committee, said: The selection shows that businesses have proactively invested in waste and wastewater treatment, and used materials and manufacturing and trading process that are environment-friendly to meet the increasing requirements in the domestic and foreign markets.

Prof Dr Nguyen Hong Quan, director of the Institute for Circular Economy Development at the Vietnam National University-HCM City, said: Green growth has become the new rule in the domestic and international markets as part of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve carbon neutrality and sustainable development. Many import markets impose high taxes on products with large carbon footprints.

Businesses are required to go green if they want to survive, develop and integrate into the global market.

Nguyen Anh uc, chairman of the Association of Vietnam Retailers and general director of retail giant Saigon Co.op, said obtaining the title would help businesses enter the international market more confidently besides raising their competitiveness in the domestic market.

Hoa said the title would be conferred annually to further encourage businesses to embrace green growth.

The organisers would also provide firms with information about green technical barriers to trade in the domestic and export markets, and help them achieve green development, he added.  VNS
HCM CITY  Dutch businesses are committed to supporting Viet Nam in achieving the countrys net zero emissions target by 2050, confirmed the Dutch Business Association in Viet Nam.

At the Signify Innovation Day 2023 themed "Green Switch, which was organised in HCM City on Wednesday, Guido van Rooy, executive director of the Dutch Business Association in Viet Nam, said Dutch companies will actively facilitate this effort by providing a platform for knowledge exchange, collaborative initiatives, and strategic partnerships.

By leveraging these resources, Dutch businesses operating in Viet Nam can jointly adapt their strategies and actions to the Vietnamese market. This concerted effort demonstrates our dedication to environmental responsibility and fosters a strong and mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries, he said.

Participants discussed Viet Nams sustainable development and how Dutch businesses in the country can help pave the way for a greener future.

Speakers and participants strongly agreed that the commitment to zero net emissions needs to be realised by balancing economic development and resource protection.

The discussion also touched on potential solutions from large enterprises, including a focus on lighting technologies, which allow stakeholders and industry leaders to see how green lighting solutions can lead to more sustainable development.

Sharing at the event, Phung Hoai Duong, general director of Signify Vietnam, said that switching from traditional lighting systems to LED lighting systems presents a substantial opportunity for cost savings.

The transition is estimated to result in an 80 per cent reduction in electricity, equivalent to cutting hundreds of tons of CO2 and saving VN6.3 million (US$260) for each tonne of CO2 cut. Residential areas, in particular, stand to benefit from a potential reduction of 276 tonnes of CO2 emissions, saving over VN1.7 trillion ($70 million), he said.

The savings are in line with the Governments call for reduced electricity use of 2 per cent annually and power losses in transmission lines to less than 6 per cent by 2025. By 2030, at least 50 per cent of all office and residential buildings should use rooftop solar power and only LED bulbs should be used in street lights by 2025.

By converting from traditional lighting systems to smart lighting systems, not only large businesses but also domestic and foreign individuals and organisations can contribute to the goal of green growth.

In addition, partnering with companies that have achieved carbon neutrality will create a greater competitive advantage to help businesses meet emissions targets, including all indirect emissions throughout the entire supply chain, while promoting customer trust and loyalty. This, in turn, attracts high-level talent, thereby increasing competitiveness in many fields from business to export, Duong told the event.

During the event, participants were introduced six light innovations which promote the pioneering journey of green transformation.

One of the six is smart office lighting with connected LED lights, integrated sensors and interact office software, which enhances workspaces by providing detailed data on occupancy, space optimisation and savings.

Technology that simulates natural sunlight was also introduced. The innovation helps improve health and development by supporting the body's circadian rhythm, keeping a person active during the day and well-rested at night.

Another solution is artistic lighting and enhancing public beauty with the Interact Landmark system that helps control light remotely, suitable for day and night needs, saving up to 30 per cent energy at night when the road is empty or as needed.

By controlling street lighting with remote management capabilities, the system allows users to easily maintain and monitor the entire system. In particular, with accurate data from the system, users can also adjust lighting to suit each area. In addition, solar street lights help reduce carbon emissions by taking advantage of solar energy and can turn lights on and off automatically based on the actual light source.

The other solutions are industrial lighting and smart lighting for homes.  VNS
The Viet Nam Publishers Association (VPA) and the Peoples Committee of HCM City will host the annual conference of the Executive Committee of the ASEAN Book Publishers Association (ABPA) and sidelines activities from September 14-19. Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the Communist Magazine, President of the VPA and rotating president of the ASEAN Book Publishers Association, Pham Minh Tuan, talks to the media about the event.

In recent years, how has the Viet Nam Publishers Association participated in international cooperation in the field of publishing?

The Viet Nam Publishers Association (VPA) is an organisation focused on the publishing industry's development and the promotion of reading culture. Since its inception, it has actively engaged in international cooperation.

In 2005, the association teamed up with publishing representatives from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand to establish the Southeast Asian Book Publishers Association (ASEAN Book Publishers Association - ABPA). This association serves as a platform for sharing information, discussing industry policies, and exchanging professional skills within the Southeast Asian publishing community. Despite Viet Nam publishing's unique characteristics, its initiatives within ABPA have been highly valued.

For example, we have been strong advocates for nurturing a reading culture and establishing book streets and book days. In addition to annual book fairs, various regions have organised Book Day and Reading Culture events.

Furthermore, the VPA actively participates in or facilitates member units' involvement in prestigious international book fairs such as those in Frankfurt, London, Moscow, Bologna, and Beijing. We were honoured guests at the 2020 Havana International Book Fair and are set to attend the 2023 Asian Children's Book Fair in Singapore as the focus country.

Even the 2016 Ha Noi Book Fair, themed "Books and Integration," included participation from ABPA and several member countries.

In our quest to learn from major global publishing platforms, in 2017, we collaborated with the Ha Noi Department of Information and Communications and Frankfurt International Book Fair (Germany) leadership to invite experts for a publishing professional training course in Ha Noi.

In 2019, as part of the 6th Ha Noi International Book Fair, we hosted a conference titled "Publishing trends in ASEAN countries." Towards the end of 2021, the VPA assumed the position of Chairman of the Southeast Asian Publishers Association (ABPA) for the 2022-23 term.

In this role, we have actively connected ABPA member countries' publishing associations to find solutions to challenges faced by the publishing industry in the post-COVID era.

In November 2022, we organised a meeting of the Executive Board of the ABPA in Jakarta, Indonesia, offering proposals and initiatives to promote intra-regional cooperation and strengthen the role of ABPA in the region and in the international arena.

In my capacity as the Rotating Chairman of the ABPA, the Viet Nam Publishers Association will collaborate closely with the People's Committee of HCM City to host the Executive Committee Conference of the ABPA, alongside various related activities, scheduled to take place between September 14-16. Overcoming numerous challenges, including those posed by the complex and ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we assumed the role of Chairman in 2022.

The COVID pandemic had a profound impact on the Vietnamese publishing industry. In the first six months of this year, the industry witnessed a significant reduction in book production, with a staggering 51 per cent decline. What is the current situation in other ASEAN countries?

The adverse effects of the post-COVID-19 era on the publishing industry in Southeast Asian countries have been exceptionally severe. Reports from various national publishing associations presented at the Conference highlight a substantial decrease in both the number of books published and overall revenue, despite the concerted efforts of governments and publishing entities in these nations. These repercussions are expected to persist throughout 2023 and 2024.

Despite facing the double challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic and recent armed conflicts, as well as heightened competition and a global economic slowdown, several countries have managed to achieve notable success in their publishing endeavours. This positive trend is particularly evident in countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Viet Nam.

These nations have expanded their range of activities to promote a culture of reading, including establishing copyright trading centres, increasing their presence at international book fairs, hosting national book awards, and actively encouraging the use of electronic learning materials.

Many Southeast Asian governments have made concerted efforts to enact supportive policies, such as tax exemptions and the creation of conducive ecosystems, recognising them as pivotal elements of a thriving publishing industry.

Publishing units across these countries have taken proactive measures to overcome challenges, especially by emphasising digital transformation, the development of electronic publishing and the application of e-commerce within the industry. This approach has contributed significantly to the modernisation of each country's publishing sector, helping it navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic.

How will VPA leverage its role in ASEAN to elevate the Vietnamese publishing industry on the international stage?

During its tenure, the VPA is advancing three important initiatives. The first is to research and implement the "One ASEAN" initiative, which aims to enhance the exchange and cooperation among publishers in ASEAN countries via ABPA.

Through this initiative, the association seeks to learn from the experiences of other countries, exchange copyrights within the region, and diversify the ASEAN cultural identity.

The ultimate goal is to develop ASEAN into a publishing centre that gradually gains global recognition.

Secondly, the association plans to establish a copyright centre under the ABPA to introduce books published by member associations. This centre will facilitate copyright transactions within the region and share information to promptly address any copyright infringements.

Thirdly, the association intends to establish the ASEAN Book Awards, with judges selected from member publishers of the ABPA.

This award aims to recognise outstanding books in the region. Furthermore, we will continue to prioritise the development of reading culture as a focal point.

Viet Nam will continue to collaborate with publishers from other countries to foster reading culture in the region. This not only promotes the cultural products of each country within the region but also allows us to learn from the experiences of our neighbouring countries.

Developing a reading culture will help evoke in many persons a passion for reading, cultivate reading habits within families, schools, organisations, and contribute to building a learning society.

BOX:

Viet Nam hosting the annual meeting of the Executive Committee of the ASEAN Book Publishers Association

HCM CITY  Viet Nam this year is hosting annual conference of the Executive Committee of the ASEAN Book Publishers Association (ABPA) in HCM City during September 14-16, to review the activities of the ABPA in the past year and discuss upcoming initiatives.

The gathering will feature reports on the publishing industry from member countries and the activities of various task forces. According to the agenda, 23 executive members from member countries of the ABPA will attend the meeting in-person in HCM City.

The Myanmar Publishers Association will participate via videoconference. Within the framework of the conference, the Viet Nam Publishers Association (VPA) will hold a scientific workshop on "Protecting Books Copyright in the Digital Space" with the participation of domestic and international experts.

In addition, the HCM City Book Street, in collaboration with publishers, will host an exhibition of books about President Ho Chi Minh and Party and State leaders during September 15-16.

The activities held by the VPA during its tenure also aim to contribute to the common goals of ASEAN, particularly with regards to the maintenance and enhancing of peace, security, and stability and further strengthen peace-oriented values in the region as well as boost resilience via amplified cooperation across political-security, economic, and cultural-social pillars.

After nearly two years of serving as the rotating Chair of the ABPA, the VPA has effectively contributed to people-to-people diplomacy and actively enhanced Viet Nams position on the international stage.  VNS
Tran Khanh An

The YouTube channel of Fil-Viet Buddies shows two young adventurous men with beaming smiles, journeying around the world. Currently, they have set foot in ten countries and countless localities across Viet Nam. Next on their 'to-do' list is the country's mountain peaks.

Ganolon Legarte Ryan from the Philippines is 30 years old and has lived in Viet Nam for eight years. Currently, he is working a 9-5 job in education.

Nguyen Van Minh, better known by his English name Jamie, is 26 years old and works for an export company.

Their lives crossed when they met by chance in the same building. Ryan was at the Hanoi International Fellowship (HIF) - a Christian community of expats living in Ha Noi. The company Jamie worked for at the time was also in the same building.

Ryan and Jamie quickly became friends because of common interests in travelling and trekking, and they shared the same goals to travel around the world and conquer the mountain peaks of Viet Nam.

Soon after connecting, the pair decided to team up and create joint social media accounts to spread news of their travels.

Ryan wrote on their page: "As two friends from Viet Nam and the Philippines, we would like to show you how two different cultures could build up a friendship despite our differences and travel worldwide together."

Jamie added: We just want to share our journey by making a YouTube video. At first, we did not have professional tools for video editing, and even had to edit YouTube videos thumbnails on the screen of my iPhone 6.

With a passion for exploration, Ryan has visited various localities in Viet Nam from North to South in his eight years living here. The high mountains in Viet Nam opened up a new hobby for him  mountain trekking.

He said: My first experience with trekking was at Fansipan Mountain  Indochina's 'roof' and home to numerous magnificent natural sceneries. The adventure left me feeling the most astonished, and my current goal is to conquer all the Vietnamese mountain peaks.

During his travels and time spent living in Viet Nam, Ryan also enjoys taking pictures and making videos. The images and footage that Ryan took and filmed were featured on GMA Unang Hirit, the Philippines' longest-running morning programme, which has been airing since 1999.

The most memorable trip for Ryan was actually in his own country when the pair visited Tondo.

Known locally as 'happy land', it is not only Manilas largest slum but also the metropolis largest district, housing 631,000 people, most of whom live on the streets or in small, shabby shacks.

Ryan said: We assume that those unfortunate individuals who reside in slums are unhappy and unsatisfied with their lives. What surprised us, though, was how happy everyone there seemed to be.

"Each one of them smiled and waved when they saw us. It seems like they actually lived in a happy land rather than a slum.

That memory has taught us to enjoy the life we currently live, to be satisfied with what we have, and to always maintain an optimistic perspective on life."

When Ryan spoke to Viet Nam News, he was planning a trekking trip at Ky Quan San Mountain with Jamie. Both of them have full-time jobs, yet they still make an effort to plan trips together. Typically, the duo leave Ha Noi and begin the trip on a Friday evening, then return on a Sunday midnight to be ready for work on Monday.

One time I arrived home at 3am on Monday after the trip, and I only had three hours of sleep before going to work on the first day of the week, Ryan shared.

The duo is nurturing a plan to become a digital nomad, who travels freely while working remotely using technology and the Internet. They are hoping that working as a full-time content creator and freelancer could help them achieve their goal.

A quote by Saint Augustine influences Jamie and Ryan: The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.

Ryan said: I have only read one page of the book of life if I only stay in a single location. Travelling to a foreign land and embracing new cultures and people can be an exciting and rewarding adventure.

"I firmly believe that we can overcome cultural barriers and establish connections despite the differences in citizenship, culture, and language.

Their journey around the world can be followed on their YouTube and TikTok account @FilVietBuddies.  VNS
HA NOI  Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha on Wednesday asked concerned agencies to focus on summarising 10 years of implementing Resolution 24-NQ/TW.

The Deputy PM stated that Resolution 24-NQ/TW identified many viewpoints, goals and tasks for proactively responding to climate change and promoting natural resources and environmental protection.

Therefore, the steering committee for summarising the resolutions work results must evaluate all activities, actual results achieved and still unfulfilled goals.

The committees members should clearly analyse the causes and lessons learnt, with recommendations from management agencies at all levels, experts, scientists, localities, businesses and socio-political organisations.

"The summary of the implementation of Resolution 24-NQ/TW will be closely linked with resolutions, strategies and plans in related fields such as Resolution 36-NQ/TW on development strategies for Viet Nam's marine economy to 2030, with a vision to 2045, the green growth strategy and the national strategy on climate change, he said.

Additionally, the domestic and international contexts have brought to light a number of new issues on climate change, resource management and environmental protection such as the goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, digital transformation, green transformation and the knowledge economy.

Presenting a report at the meeting, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Vo Tuan Nhan stated that after 10 years of implementing Resolution 24-NQ/TW, economic growth has begun to shift toward a greener direction.

The integration of climate change response and environmental protection into development strategies and plans continues to be emphasised.

Policies and laws on environmental pollution prevention and control have been increasingly refined, focusing on proactive control of pollution risk sources.

Forest protection and development have yielded many positive results, and the number of nature reserves has increased.

The capacity to forecast and warn of natural disasters has reached a top level in the region and is steadily approaching that of advanced countries in Asia.

Viet Nam has actively collaborated with the international community in reducing net greenhouse gas emissions and ensuring equitable energy transition, Nhan added.

Basic research, potential assessment, natural resources management, and exploitation have achieved numerous significant, sustainable, and more effective results.

Renewable energy sources have seen rapid development.

Notably, several goals set for 2020 were surpassed, including enhancing the capacity for natural disaster forecasting and warning, reducing harm to people and property from natural disasters, and cutting greenhouse gas emissions per unit of gross domestic product (GDP) by 8-10 per cent compared to 2010.

Other notable achievements include ensuring a balanced land fund for socio-economic development, maintaining and flexibly using 3.8 million hectares of rice-growing land for food security, and enhancing land use efficiency.

Furthermore, concerned agencies have reduced raw mineral exports, destroyed and treated over 85 per cent of hazardous waste, and effectively managed environmental pollution resulting from war consequences.

However, Nhan noted that the capacity to prevent natural disasters and adapt to climate change had not met expectations.

Greenhouse gas emission reductions remain limited.

Environmental pollution persists in numerous areas, particularly in industrial zones, river basins, and craft villages.

Marine pollution, stemming from aquaculture and plastic waste, is prevalent in many regions.

Issues such as flooding, saltwater intrusion, riverbank, and coastal erosion are widespread, with the Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta being especially affected.

Basic survey data and resource use planning exhibit numerous flaws and limitations.

Members of the steering committee opined that addressing climate change, enhancing resource management, and bolstering environmental protection are intricate and multifaceted challenges.

As such, the review must lucidly delineate goals, viewpoints, and long-term strategic visions, coupling them with feasible mid-term, immediate, and pressing solutions.

This endeavour should also be intertwined with rallying resources and the commitment of the entire political framework, from central to local tiers, as well as the international community.

Deputy PM Ha underscored that the Party's theoretical and ideological perspectives on climate change, natural resources, and environmental protection have been refined.

Hence, the summary of Resolution 24-NQ/TW ought to be anchored in the political, scientific, and practical principles of promoting a circular and green economy, as articulated in the 13th National Party Congress Resolution.

The summary should be intricately linked with the three pillars of sustainable development: economy, society, and environment.

Deputy PM Ha urged the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to focus intensively and bolster its team to finalise the 10-year review, ensuring its utmost quality.

Emphasis should be placed on juxtaposition with international indices and rankings, and on quantifying objectives and assignments with precise metrics.

The summary must clarify the rapid changes in the domestic and international context compared to the issuance time of Resolution 24-NQ/TW, with new issues and trends such as green, digital and economic transformation.

At the meeting, members of the steering committee also proposed plans and recommendations after completing the resolutions implementation summary.  VNS
HA NOI  The upgrade of the Viet Nam-US relations to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is a force for prosperity, cooperation and sustainable development in the region, US Ambassador to Viet Nam Marc E.Knapper said at the press briefing on Wednesday following the President Joe Bidens visit to Viet Nam.

The robust Viet Nam-US relations bring benefits to both nations, the diplomat said, stressing the US want to stand side by side with Viet Nam in the latters efforts to have a digital economy by 2030, become a high-income nation by 2045, and realise its net-zero target by 2050.

Environmental protection and climate change response will be among key cooperation fields between the two nations, he said, given Viet Nam's bold commitment to creating a greener and cleaner economy.

As the Southeast Asian country has an increasingly important role in the global value chain, the two countries have agreed to step up collaboration across the fields of science-technology, semi-conductor, education, and training of high-tech workforce Viet Nam needs to meet the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century, he stressed.

Ambassador Knapper described President Bidens meetings with Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, President Vo Van Thuong, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and Chairman of the National Assembly Vuong inh Hue particularly moving.

A small ceremony was held following the meeting with Vietnamese top legislator Hue, he said, during which war memorabilia were handed over between the two sides.

Just a really powerful moment in which you had veterans from both sides meeting in the presence of our President and the presence of the head of the National Assembly. I dont know, just for me  I mean, my father is a veteran; he fought here too  and so for me personally it was just very moving to see individuals from both sides doing this in the spirit of reconciliation, in the spirit of growing our partnership even more going into the future, he said.

The US diplomat also recalled the special moment when President Joe Biden and Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry visit the monument of late Senator John McCain, who had special influence on promoting the Viet Nam-US relations, at Truc Bach Lake.

Regarding post-war recovery, the ambassador said the US profoundly grateful for Viet Nam's humanitarian effort, which helped bring home remains of more than 730 US servicemen.

The State visit by President Biden is not only an opportunity for both sides to further efforts to recover the war legacy, which is a pillar in the bilateral cooperation, but also an opportunity to expand cooperation in other fields.

Efforts towards reconciliation and cooperation in high technology do capture the full spectrum and breadth of the Viet Nam-US ties, he said, adding both sides are working towards strengthening their friendship, deepening the existing areas of cooperation, and looking for new areas of cooperation.

Our two countries are moving together into the future. And it was really just an extraordinary visit., he said.  VNS
HA NOI  National Assembly (NA) Chairman Vuong inh Hue on Thursday attended a rehearsal for the 9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians (GCYP), which will open in Ha Noi on Friday.

Tran Thanh Man, NA Standing Vice Chairman and head of the organising committee of the 9th CGYP, leaders from relevant ministries, departments, and representatives from the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the IPU Young Parliamentarians Forum were also present.

Speaking at the event, NA Chairman Hue provided detailed suggestions for the conference. He emphasised the importance of aligning with IPU's established protocols for organising previous global young parliamentarians' conferences while ensuring compatibility with Viet Nam's cultural traditions and practical conditions.

Before the rehearsal, during discussions with the delegates, NA Chairman Hue expressed his sincere gratitude for the close cooperation of the IPU, the IPU Young Parliamentarians Forum, as well as the relevant agencies, departments, and local authorities in Viet Nam. He also praised the active preparations made by the Young NA Deputies Group and the various bodies within the NA for the organisation of the conference.

He highlighted that the 9th GCYP was a significant and unique multilateral event for Viet Nam in 2023. It provided an opportunity to showcase to the international community the modern, dynamic, integrated, and culturally rich image of Viet Nam, as well as its achievements in innovation and development.

Emma Tangi Muteka, a Member of Parliament from Namibia and a member of the Leadership Committee of the IPU Young Parliamentarians Forum, expressed her deep appreciation for the NA Chairman and the Standing Vice Chairman of the NA Man for their close attention to the preparation of the 9th GCYP.

She also highly praised Viet Nam's preparations as host of the 9th GCYP and the hospitality of the Vietnamese NA and its people.

Man highly commended the efforts put into the preparations by the organising committee, subcommittees, relevant agencies, organisations, and units. He expressed confidence in the diligent and proactive preparations of the host country, Viet Nam, as well as the close and constructive cooperation of the IPU, the IPU Young Parliamentarians Forum.

He expressed his belief that the 9th GCYP would be a great success.  VNS
GENEVA  Ambassador Le Thi Tuyet Mai has highlighted Viet Nams policy on promoting and protecting all peoples enjoyment of human rights while addressing a general debate on UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turks updated report on the global human rights situation.

The debate on September 13 was part of the 54th regular session of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

Mai, who is Permanent Representative of Viet Nam to the UN, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and other international organisations in Geneva, spoke highly of the active role of and efforts by the High Commissioner in stepping up the UNHRCs activities, affirming the countrys support for activities of the High Commissioner Office to promote and protect human rights for all.

She emphasised Viet Nams policy on promoting and protecting all peoples enjoyment of human rights, along with its development policy that centres on the people and views the people as the main stakeholder, goal, and momentum of development.

Viet Nam perceives that it is necessary to promote initiatives and actions at national, regional, and international levels to resolve adverse impacts of global challenges such as climate change and food insecurity, which are threatening the enjoyment of human rights by people around the world, especially vulnerable groups, as well as the possibility of obtaining the Sustainable Development Goals, she noted.

The ambassador also underscored the need to settle political divisions and differences, and foster cooperation and trust building, through activities of the UNHRC as one of the measures, to ensure that people worldwide can fully enjoy human rights.

Mai added that Viet Nam is committed to boosting substantive dialogue and effective cooperation with all member states and human rights mechanisms of the UN. It supports the fundamental principles of universality, equality, objectivity, impartiality, and non-intervention into countries internal affairs.

The country holds that dialogue, substantive cooperation, and adherence to the above-mentioned principles form the most effective way for promoting and protecting human rights for the sake of sustainable development.

During the UNHRCs 54th session in Geneva from September 11 to October 13, Viet Nam has been enhancing its participation as a UNHRC member in the 2023 - 2025 tenure.

A focus Viet Nam has promoted during the session is the right to health. The country has contributed to a joint speech at the discussion on the promotion of human rights via immunisation, and held an international seminar on this topic.

The 54th session, organised in a hybrid format, is the last regular session of the UNHRC this year. VNS
HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has told Lao Minister of Planning and Investment Khamchen Vongphosy that Viet Nam always attaches great importance to and give the highest priority to maintaining and developing its special relationship with Laos, considering it as a valuable asset with an important role in the revolutionary cause in each country.

Receiving Khamchen, who is also head of the Committee for Laos-Viet Nam Cooperation in Ha Noi on Thursday, PM Chinh asked the two Ministries of Planning and Investment and the two cooperation committees to work more closely together and urge other ministries, sectors and localities to actively promote their collaboration mechanisms, while strengthening the efficiency of the cooperation committee mechanism.

The two sides should coordinate closely in preparing for the 46th meeting of the Viet Nam-Laos Inter-Governmental Committee, and completing the Viet Nam-Laos cooperation plan for 2023, contributing to concretising agreements reached by senior leaders of the two countries with specific results and new breakthroughs, he said.

Particularly, the two sides should strengthen economic connectivity, especially connections in transport, consider deploying Vientiane-Vung Ang railway project, remove difficulties facing major joint projects and launch new cooperation projects, he said.

He stressed the need to promote investment activities of businesses of the two sides with suitable mechanisms and policies, while optimising each others advantages to supplement each other in terms of markets and materials, and rolling out measures to enhance two-way trade.

The Vietnamese leader suggested the two sides continue strengthening their political-diplomatic relations and meetings among leaders of ministries, sectors and localities; promoting cooperation in security and defence; coordinating in ensuring political stability, social security, safety and order in each country, especially along the shared border, and collaborating closely at multilateral forums.

For his part, Khamchen briefed his host on the outcomes of the mid-term meeting of the Cooperation Committee between the two countries. He proposed Viet Nam continue supporting Laos in performing the role of ASEAN Chair in 2024.

The minister affirmed that the Lao Ministry of Planning and Investment and the Laos-Viet Nam Cooperation Committee as well as himself will continue to work hard to foster collaboration between the two countries and concretise agreements and directions of senior leaders of the two nations, thus bolstering the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive between the two countries.

PM Chinh pledged that Viet Nam always stands side by side with Laos and supports the neighbouring country in successfully performing the role of ASEAN Chair 2024.  VNS
Dubai Customs said they had detained a man for attempting to smuggle seven kilos of marijuana hidden within cereal packages through the airport.

According to an official statement released on Thursday, authorities were concerned when they discovered black material in the cereal packages, which suggested the potential inclusion of forbidden products.

At the Dubai International Airport, the suspect, who is of Asian heritage, was apprehended. Dubai Customs officers quickly confiscated the drugs, according to Alarabiya News.

The person was turned over to Dubai Police to undergo additional legal procedures after being arrested.

#DubaiCustoms successfully intercepted an Asian traveler's attempt to smuggle 7.06 kilograms of illicit #marijuana through @DXB inside bags of a well-known cereal. The passenger and the seized narcotics were promptly handed over to @DubaiPoliceHQ for further legal action pic.twitter.com/rSq69xGLfg    | Dubai Customs (@DubaiCustoms) June 1, 2023

According to Khaled Ahmed, the senior manager of the Passenger Operations Department at Terminal 1, irregularities were found during a comprehensive examination of the baggage at the airport, raising questions about the existence of illegal products, per Curly Tales.

Read Also: Erdogan Extends Rule to Third Decade

Ahmed described how smugglers cover up drugs by body packing, hiding them in cosmetic products, blending them into the sides and bottoms of bags, merging them with clothing, masking them in food packaging and spice packets, and even hiding them in seasonal fruits.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

The head of Dubai Customs' Passengers Operations Department, Ibrahim Kamali, underlined the inspectors' extensive training programs to hone their scientific and practical abilities and improve their ability to spot efforts to smuggle drugs, according to The National.

The United Arab Emirates has strict laws prohibiting drug use for recreation.

The manufacture, import, export, transit, purchase, sale, possession, and storage of narcotic and psychotropic drugs are all completely prohibited in the UAE by Federal Decree-Law No. 30 of 2021.

Dubai Customs actively uses cutting-edge technology, such as underwater robots, flying drones, and predictive AI, to stop illegal activity, especially drug smuggling.

Related Article: Elon Musk Remains Silent About Visit to Beijing

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
HA NOI  Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh will start a series of high-level external affairs activities starting next week with visits to China, the United States, and Brazil, lasting from September 16 throughout September 26, according to the announcement from the foreign ministry.

At the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang, PM Chinh will attend the 20th ASEAN-China Expo (CAEXPO) and the China-ASEAN Business & Investment Summit (CABIS) held in Nanning, Guangxi region, China during September 16-17, spokeswoman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday at the regular press briefing in Ha Noi.

The CAEXPO and the CABIS are jointly held annually by China in Nanning, and this is one of the top ten exhibitions in China. The 20th CABIS this year has the theme of "Building a harmonious homeland, a common destiny to the future - promoting high-quality development of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and building an economic growth centre."

The two events are part of a series of events to celebrate 20 years of China-ASEAN strategic partnership.

The event welcomes 120 Vietnamese businesses with 200 booths of various products - agricultural and aquaculture products, processed food, footwear, household appliances, footwear, and wood and craft products.

Hang said it is expected that PM Chinh will attend the opening ceremony of the CAEXPO and CABIS, meet with Chinese Premier, have talks with the Secretary of Guangxi Party Committee Liu Ning, and take part in other foreign affairs activities.

Asked about Viet Nam and China cooperation within BRI, spokesperson Hang said Viet Nam "welcomes initiatives that promote connectivity and regional economic cooperation on the basis of ensuring the principles of peaceful and mutually beneficial cooperation with mutual respect in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter, contributing to the sustainable development and economic prosperity of all countries."

Recently, the friendship between Viet Nam and China has maintained its growth, including the cooperation mechanisms that connect Viet Nam and China as a whole and connectivity within the BRI.

The governments of both countries have recently signed an MoU in order to further promote connectivity within the framework of Viet Nam's 'Two Corridors, One Belt' as well as China's BRI.

For many years, Vietnamese businesses and Chinese businesses have actively cooperated in transporting goods through the corridor connecting Chongqing to Viet Nam and a number of ASEAN countries, and from Viet Nam to China to Central Asia.

"We hope that the Belt and Road Initiative will continue to strengthen economic connectivity and regional connectivity to assist countries in building infrastructure and in expanding their markets. It will narrow the development gap between countries and bring about new opportunities for businesses and the people in the region and the world," spokesperson Hang said.

In the latest meeting between PM Chinh and the Chinese Premier, both sides also agreed to continue to foster strategic connectivity to cooperate in building the BRI to a higher quality, to further connect the road systems, to further build the logistics systems, in order to get it to higher efficiency and to bring about new opportunities to businesses and people of both countries, as well as to actively contribute to peace, stability, and prosperity of the region and the world, Hang added.

US visit

After China, from September 17, PM Chinh and a Vietnamese high-level delegation will attend the 78th UN General Assembly (UNGA) meeting, as well as engage in bilateral activity in the US.

Over the past years, Viet Nam has actively and responsibly contributed to the effectiveness and assistance in all aspects of the UN, Hang said.

The 78th UNGA will be held with the theme of "Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability for all."

PM Chinh is set to attend and deliver a speech at the general debate of the UNGA, the Climate Ambition Summit, and the UN High-Level Meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response, as well as meet with the UN Secretary General and the UNGA President, and engage in bilateral exchanges with representatives from countries and international organisations.

The Government leader will also have several bilateral activities in the US.

The Viet Nam-US relations have witnessed extensive and intensive progress in all areas of bilateral ties, as well as in regional and international matters. The two sides have just elevated the relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership during the trip to Viet Nam by US President Joe Biden on September 10-11 at the invitation of the Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong.

"The trip to the US right after President Biden's visit is of great significance to realise the outcomes attained during Biden's trip to Viet Nam," Hang noted.

During the US trip, PM Chinh would meet with leaders of the administration and the US Congress, attend several activities related to trade and economy between the two countries, along with other foreign affairs.

Brazil visit

After wrapping up activities in the US, PM Chinh will begin his official visit to Brazil, at the invitation of Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Viet Nam-Brazil relations over past years have been growing actively.

Brazil is Viet Nam's largest trade partner in Latin America with trade turnover in 2022 hitting nearly US$6.8 billion (6.6 per cent rise from 2021).

During the trip, PM Chinh will have bilateral talks with Brazilian President and meet with leaders of the national progress.

Both sides pay attention to bolstering cooperation in areas such as agriculture, science, technology, culture, sports, and defence, the spokesperson remarked.  VNS
HA NOI  Digital transformation and flexible approaches can lead the way to utilise resources for development, said the National Assembly Committee for External Affairs chairman Vu Hai Ha.

In his opening remarks at an exhibition showcasing One Commune One Product (OCOP), and innovations and technology products in Ha Noi on Thursday afternoon, Ha believed that the event will be a space for experience exchanges for more favourable conditions in terms of policies, environment and infrastructure for growth.

Titled Vietnams Aspirations, the exhibition is a sideline event of the 9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians taking place from September 14-17 in Viet Nam, and was attended by NA Chairman Vuong inh Hue, members of the Vietnamese NA Standing Committee and countries ambassadors to Viet Nam.

Ha, who is also the head of the national Inter-Parlimentary Union (IPU) committee, said: From an agricultural country lagging behind and suffering from war consequences, Viet Nam has seen significant progress in development since implementing oi moi (Renewal) policies.

We have achieved ahead of schedule the Millenium Development Goals and are now actively implementing the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development.

In the complex global contexts and the risks of failure to meet sustainable development goals on schedules, digital transformation and innovations are the chance for all of us, especially for developing countries.

Therefore, by introducing to the international community the results Viet Nam has achieved through its policies in this field, the exhibition hopes to inspire young parliamentarians for the upcoming discussions on sustainable growth, innovation, digital transformation and respect for cultural diversity in the course of development, he added.

More than 160 OCOP and technology products are included in the display, including AI-powered unmanned aerial vehicles from CT Group and 5G network equipment from Viettel Group.

The exhibition also aims to promote the image, cultural identity and the international integration progress of Viet Nam to international conference delegates.  VNS
HONG KONG  Viet Nam always rolls out red carpet for foreign investors, including those from Hong Kong (China) to invest in the country in the spirit of harmonising interests and sharing risks, Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung said while attending the 8th Belt and Road Summit held in Hong Kong on September 13.

Describing the Viet Nam-China cooperation within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) significant to bolstering regional connectivity, Dung said that his ministry and Chinas National Development and Reform Commission are accelerating negotiations for the plan to connect the Two Corridors, One Belt initiative with the BRI.

He also underscored Viet Nam's three breakthrough strategies on institutional reform, infrastructure development, and improvement of human resources quality, adding the country is paying due heed to promoting digital transformation and green transition to achieve the target of net-zero greenhouse emissions by 2050, and become a developed nation with high income by 2045.

The minister went on to say that Hong Kong has an important role to play in connecting Viet Nam with the region and many powers such as the EU and the US, especially in the fields of science-technology, innovation, finance, trade and logistics.

Meeting with Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region John Lee Ka-chiu, Dung expressed his hope that Viet Nam and Hong Kong will work together to develop financial hubs, while promoting innovation activities in the Southeast Asian country.

Science-technology, education-training, and labour are also potential fields for the two sides to boost cooperation, he added.

Dung said he hopes that Lee will visit Viet Nam at a suitable time to study and promote investments between the two sides.

Lee, for his part, voiced his delight to see the goodwill of the two sides to enhance collaboration, pledging to create favourable conditions for businesses from the two sides to cooperate in the fields of finance and investment.

Hong Kong stands ready to invest in infrastructure development projects in Viet Nam, he said, adding that his administration will consider to increase the number of scholarships for Vietnamese students under the BRI, and enhance the exchanges of excellent students.

Lee said he will arrange to visit Viet Nam soon, and expects a visit to Hong Kong by Vietnamese leaders.

Dung also had working sessions with many Hong Kong businesses, including Sunwah, Swire Pacific, Jardine Matheson, Chow Tai Fook, and Messe Frankfurt. He highlighted the positive aspects of Viet Nam, with a stable political environment, sound human resources, and good business climate, and welcomed Hong Kongs investments in digital transformation, high technology, green finance, and logistics, among others.  VNS
HCM CITY  HCM City authorities plan to allocate an additional 550 hectares of land to build social housing as part of its effort to build 93,000 social housing units by 2030.

Under a proposal to the Peoples Committee, the Department of Construction has also proposed increasing the budget allocated for social housing to VN3.8 trillion ($158.12 million) from VN1.2 trillion ($49.91 million).

The department has identified 26 potential areas for the development of social housing and workers housing.

These areas include four inner-city districts (District 4, 8 and Binh Thanh and Tan Binh districts) covering nearly 11 hectares; three other inner-city districts (District 7, 12 and Binh Tan District) spanning 15 hectares; there suburban districts (Binh Chanh, Nha Be and Cu Chi districts) totaling 188 hectares; and Thu uc City covering over 334 hectares.

The government has recently approved a new initiative that aims to build over one million homes for low-income individuals and industrial park workers by 2030.

The initiative approved by deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha will require a total investment of VN849.5 trillion.

By 2030, the total number of completed dwellings in localities will reach about 1,062,200. Of these, about 428,000 will be completed by 2025 and 634,200 by 2030.

In addition to government efforts, the private sector is encouraged to participate in the development of affordable housing, experts said. Market mechanisms can help provide suitable housing conditions for everyone, they noted.

The Ministry of Construction has proposed improvements to the legal framework governing social housing for low-income individuals and workers in industrial zones.

A draft resolution of the National Assembly is being developed to pilot policies aimed at promoting social housing development.

The Law on Housing 2014 is also being revised to align with the revised Law on Land, Law on Bidding, tax laws, and guiding legal documents.

In addition, land allocation for social housing and worker housing projects is being addressed through amendments and additions to existing regulations.

People's committees at the provincial and district levels are expected to identify suitable land areas for social housing development, taking into account local planning, land use plans, and development programmes.  VNS
QUANG NAM  Most of the people who suffered from food poisoning after eating banh my at Phuong bread shop in Hoi An, Quang Nam province, are now stable.

Mai Van Muoi, director of the provincial Department of Health, said the total number of people hospitalised was 91, including 34 foreign tourists.

Of which, 32 have been discharged and one was transferred to the Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital in a Nang City.

Doctor Tu Thi Ngoc Mai from Vinh uc General Hospital in ien Ban Town said 14 victims were admitted to the emergency department on Tuesday and Wednesday after eating banh my Phuong, a famous bread brand in Hoi An's ancient town.

Some of the victims have stabilised, but others still show signs of fatigue, high fever, and are being closely monitored, Mai said.

Meanwhile, a representative from Thai Binh Duong General in Hoi An said that by Wednesday afternoon, nearly 100 victims had been hospitalised. The hospital is still receiving additional patients.

According to initial inspections of the provincial Food Safety Department, the food safety conditions at this bakery were found to be inadequate and did not meet the required standards.

On Wednesday afternoon, the Food Safety Department, Ministry of Health, sent a letter to the Quang Nam Department of Health, requesting a temporary suspension of Phuong bread shop.

The agency also called for an inspection of the food safety conditions at the shop, tracing the origin of the food products, collecting samples for testing, and conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the incident.  VNS
By Luong Thu Huong

Like many Hre ethnic youths in Teng Village in the central province of Quang Ngai, Pham Thi Y Hoa is overwhelmed with pride when she wears the distinctive traditional brocade costume of her ethnic group.

The 31-year-old's social media feeds are constantly updated with photos of the Teng handloom weaving craft, which has been recognised as a national intangible heritage since 2019.

Besides traditional products like clothing, scarves or shawls, Hoa has also woven contemporary goods like handbags, ties, ao dai (traditional Vietnamese long dress) and wedding dresses, helping more customers learn about the Hre's unique craft and inspiring locals to take part in preserving their ancient heritage.

"When I create a new product, I usually share it on my personal page to receive feedback and suggestions from friends and customers. It is also a way for me to improve my work and meet the market demand," she said.

Hoa's and other Teng villagers' efforts to promote their ancient craft have paid off, even going beyond borders. At the EXPO 2020 in Dubai, UAE, two of their handloom fabric products were showcased in the VIP area, together with 13 representative products of 10 other ethnic minorities from Viet Nam.

Hre brocade appeared in an impressive fashion show within the international exhibition. Five creations by renowned fashion designers Ly Quy Khanh and Chula were meticulously woven by Hoas talented hands, impressing many fashionistas attending.

After receiving orders to create the handloom fabric for the designers, I was overjoyed and determined to carry out the task, Hoa told Viet Nam News.

It was my first opportunity to receive an order from renowned fashion designers and to showcase my works at such a big international event. I did my best so that my artisanal fabrics  the heritage of the Hre people  would be present at the expo."

'Unique beauty'

She said the designers requested that typical Hre patterns account for half of the fabric used for their designs at the fair, which demanded extreme care. She can only weave around 20cm of fabric a day, so it took nearly two months to complete.

Hoa has been able to weave since the age of 14. As a 9th grader, she earned pocket money from creating her first complete products and selling them to residents in Ba To District where she lived.

Growing up, Hoa realised that the ancient weaving craft of her ethnic group, despite its unique beauty, was not widely known and losing interest from consumers, particularly the young people, due to its low price. She decided to return to her hometown in 2018, after studying away from home, to focus on commercialising Hre traditional fabrics.

I aimed to raise awareness about Hre handloom fabric, and preserve the weaving craft as an indispensable cultural aspect of our lives and also as a source of income both for me and my community, she said.

According to Hoa, the handloom fabrics of different ethnic groups often share vibrant and eye-catching colours, but the unique characteristic of Hre fabric is undoubtedly the traditional colour palette, which consists of three main colours: white, red and black.

However, Hre fabric has incorporated a variety of colours these days. This is due to customers preferences and the influence of modern trends. Nevertheless, the dominant three colours are still preserved, and the weaving techniques remain unchanged, she added.

Initial struggles

At first, Hoa encountered many difficulties in the preservation of her ethnic group's identity and cultural heritage.

I had to re-explore everything about the craft, starting from the source of materials. The Hre used to use cotton fibres, and now they have replaced them with synthetic fibres. I had to research and find the lowest possible price to reduce costs, the issue that most local weavers are concerned with," she said.

The next issue is finding the market, or more precisely, understanding the needs of customers within and outside my community. I have to understand what they like, what they need, and what is the most reasonable price to entice them.

Finally, it is about teaching the skills so that the weavers can understand and become familiar with innovative products and have colours that are more suitable for current trends.

Hoa is one of the first Teng villagers to promote their products on social media and e-commerce websites instead of passively waiting for customers. She has also actively introduced the craft at many trade fairs and conferences in Quang Ngai and beyond.

Thanks to Hoas keen mindset, the handloom fabric items woven by Teng villagers have gradually won much favour from customers.

Hoas products have not only been sold in Quang Ngai but in many other provinces and cities throughout the country. Moreover, they have been selected by the Provincial People's Committee as local souvenirs for distinguished guests, and travelled to many countries worldwide, including Switzerland, Italy, the UK and Germany.

Hoa is nurturing a plan to build a stilt house of her own where she will exhibit Hre cultural heritage to all visitors to Teng Village. VNS
By Tran Khanh An & Ha Linh

In the hustle and bustle of a southern district of Ha Noi, nestles a silversmiths inside a tranquil temple dedicated to the founders of the ancient craft.

Currently, the workshop has 10 workers, mostly young, and is owned by artisan Quach Phan Tuan Anh.

Holding a pair of tweezers in his right hand, Anh skilfully attaches a cloud design on a silver box. All around him, other silversmiths sit diligently perfecting their works of art, working with the precious metal all day long.

The story of inh Cong silvercraft village began in the sixth century, before the Ly Dynasty, when three brothers from the Tran family went to inh Cong Village and taught the villagers to make silver jewellery.

Passing it down from generation to generation, the village became one of the four most elite craft villages in Thang Long Citadel. inh Cong silversmiths created intricate objects as altar items and fine jewellery for centuries.

Renowned for its rich tradition of high craftsmanship, the village has thrived for 1,500 years. However, it now faces the challenge of disappearing.

There are only two families in the village still engaging in the craft, including the workshop of artisan Anh and the other owned by artisan Quach Van Hieu.

Anh said that urbanisation was one of the reasons why inh Cong Village is under threat.

Urbanisation in inh Cong Village has restricted the space for the trade. Currently, many silversmiths have to receive small orders to work at home. They gradually lose interest in the craft and find other jobs. These days, many residents in inh Cong do not even know the existence of silvercraft in the village, Anh said.

In addition, with changes in mindsets and lifestyles, young people in inh Cong have chosen other careers and often lost touch with their forebears' traditions. They have more job opportunities with higher income without having to spend more time and effort training as silversmiths.

Even Anh was set to reject the traditional craft from his father at one point.

Passing down

"I grew up watching my father making silver jewellery every day. I also helped him do some simple jobs, Anh said.

My father has always been an inspirational role model for me. As a wounded soldier, after the war, he intended to quit silvercraft, but he continued to take the trade to make a living to bring up his three children.

When Anh grew up, he initially insisted on not following his family's craft. It was not until he graduated from the National Economics University that he changed his mind.

Anh told Viet Nam News about the moment he truly realised the potential of silvercraft.

At that time, many customers came to order from my father in large quantities. However, he couldn't manage to turn out such a large number of goods on his own.

Additionally, his father, artisan Quach Van Truong, was then the only master artisan left in the village.

inh Cong craft village has survived and thrived over the centuries. If my villages silvercraft disappears in my generation, I would feel guilty and responsible for that, Anh said.

After graduating, he decided to become a silversmith and learned everything again from scratch. Along with his father, he called on the other artisans in the village to return to the craft and has maintained his workshop for 20 years.

Exquisite craftsmanship

au bac in Vietnamese means the technique of silver wire drawing and arranging into shapes to form different patterns to create a silver product.

The work begins with melting silver into ingots. The worker must make sure that these bars are even and free from any clumps or irregularities, preventing any unwanted breaks.

Next, the flat silver bars are pulled into silver threads. The size of the threads varies, with the smallest just 0.3 millimetres. With these silver threads in hand, workers carefully shape them based on drawings. This stage requires a keen eye for details and a steady hand to bring the design to life.

According to at, a skilled craftsman at Anhs workshop, welding is the most challenging step in the entire process.

Excessive heat can distort the shape of the products, while insufficient heat can result in loose joints. Therefore, the workers must have great patience and take care to achieve the best results.

Due to the level of complexity and details required, some products take a considerable amount of time to finish.

Items like small image frames or simple alphabet characters can be finished in one or two days, while the more complex products such as miniature animals or objects may require a year or more to be meticulously crafted, at said.

Handing on the torch

Anhs workshop has expanded production to meet the growing demand, and the number of orders is enough for Anh and his staff to live comfortably. However, the artisan has greater goals in mind.

To preserve and expand the inh Cong silvercraft, he believes it is critical to train a new generation of silversmiths, and build the reputation of its products.

"To develop the craft village, inh Cong needs more young workers with high skills and great patience. That is why I offer free training to locals, and even those from other places," Anh said.

He spends a tremendous amount of time imparting his skills to young workers. What they are inheriting is not only a working skill but also a culture.

Nguyen Nhat Thanh, who is only 18 years old, has learnt silversmithing for three years. He is not a inh Cong native but from a neighbouring district.

When I was 15, I had no intention to have a high education, and no idea what to do with my future. Uncle Anh took me to his workshop and taught me the craft. I am suitable for this work, I think, Thanh said.

Anh made various products with sophisticated designs to participate in fairs, exhibitions, and handicraft competitions. He won first place twice in 2020 and 2022 in the Viet Nam national handicraft competition.

Crafting many works of art not only highlights the skill of inh Cong silversmiths but also brings Anh happiness in his creativity.

When I finish a single product, I am so happy that I have surpassed myself. There are no limits to creativity in this craft, but craftsmen will always need motivation to be satisfied with their job and create more, Anh said.

inh Cong artisans are also seeking the authorities' support to have an exclusive space for the village to preserve their traditional craft. They also hope to have a space to display and promote their products, as well as welcome foreign visitors to experience silver jewellery making.

My journey has just begun, and challenges are still ahead. However, I believe that inh Cong silvercraft will come alive once again. VNS
Opportunities and challenges are intertwined

With the role of connecting the world, supporting trade, and promoting socioeconomic development, the logistics industry is considered the lifeblood of the national economy.

Vietnam boasts the advantages of being located in the centre of the Asia-Pacific region and on the international maritime route, and having a long coastline with many favourable locations for the development of deepwater ports. Alongside a high economic growth rate and stable production, Vietnam is expected to soon become a logistics star of the region.

Over the past few years, Vietnam's logistics sector has developed significantly, with an average rate of 14-16 per cent per year or $40-42 billion. According to Tran Thanh Hai, deputy director of the Import and Export Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, imports and exports reached a record high of $732.5 billion in 2022, up 9.5 per cent from 2021, thanks in large part to the growth of enterprises and the calibre of logistical services.

Vietnam is currently placed 11th out of 50 growing global logistics markets.

According to many experts, despite the leap in development, Vietnam's logistics industry has yet to unlock its full potential. One of the biggest limitations is high service costs. The nation has yet to form an expansive network of large-scale logistics companies with the capacity to lead the market and promote its development.

Amidst increasing international integration, Vietnam has signed a wide range of free trade agreements. Alongside the strong growth of e-commerce, logistics companies are facing fierce competition from foreign competitors. Therefore, to maintain and strengthen their position, businesses need to continuously innovate and create new value to attract customers.

Turn competition into a driving force for development

Since its inception in early 2000, An Tin Inter-Transport JSC (An Tin Logistics), a subsidiary of An Phat Holdings Group, has been a well-known name in both the local and regional logistics markets. From its starting point as an in-house transportation unit for An Phat Holdings Group, An Tin Logistics has now become one of Vietnam's leading logistics enterprises.

Despite nearly 20 years in the industry, An Tin Logistics has been struggling to compete with other logistics giants operating in Vietnam. To address the problem, it has given priority to the digital transformation of its business operations to optimise internal administration and customer relationship management.

A presentative of An Tin Logistics said, "To change the traditional processes that are paper-intensive, inaccurate, and time-consuming, we have deployed business management software, which will be expanded into a user-friendly platform soon. Therefore, customers can easily access and track their goods."

In addition to promoting digitalisation, An Tin Logistics has gradually improved its service quality, providing comprehensive transportation solutions, including sea, road, rail, and air, as well as customs services and import and export documentation.

An Tin Logistics has a capacity of 10-12 million TEUs per year and close partnerships with reputable shipping lines such as Maersk, Yang Ming, Cosco Shipping, Evergreen, HMM, KMTC, and has a network of agents in more than 100 countries and major ports around the world.

It has also been quick to offer a door-to-door service. This is a comprehensive transportation and customs clearance offering, including warehouse, shipping, and receiving services. The solution boasts many advantages and is favoured by consumers and businesses around the world.

"With the door-to-door service, goods will not be broken, damaged, lost, or stolen, and are protected by our safe insurance. We also provide support services for looking up order information, so customers know the status of their goods and feel more secure during the transportation process," the presentative added.

Besides providing transportation solutions, An Tin Logistics has also channelled its resources to develop closed-loop logistics services. The warehouse system is located in Hai Duong province, which is a focal point for economic exchanges, trade, and the transit of goods in the northern key economic region.

"During our nearly 20 years of operation, we have always strived to bring the best and most tailored logistics solutions to each customer and partner. Our biggest goal is to expand An Tin Logistics's reach into the global market. This will demonstrate that the capabilities of Vietnamese logistics groups are on par with those of foreign businesses. Thus, Vietnam can truly become a bright star in the market," she added.

To tap into the potential of the industry, An Tin Logistics will continue to scale up its operations and connect more deeply with the international transportation market. The company will also establish representative offices across the world, especially in key areas such as the United States, China, and Europe.

An Tin Inter-Transport JSC (An Tin Logistics) Website: https://antinlogistics.com/ Hotline: +84 220 3755 456 ; Email: info@antinlogistics.com

Ba Ria-Vung Tau strives to become regional-scale logistics centre The southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau plans to expand its Cai Mep Ha Logistics Centre to 2,204 hectares, turning itself into a logistics hub of the region, according to an action plan on enhancing the localitys logistics competitiveness and development until 2025.

Strategic position to aid Vietnam well in industrial real estate Vietnam is well on the way to becoming a regional logistics hub, with an important role for stakeholders involved in ready-built complexes, last-mile logistics, and much more besides. Paul Tonkes, industrial deputy director for Indochina Kajima Development, shared his point of view with VIRs Bich Ngoc on current and future developments.
The latest market research commissioned by global cloud communications platform Infobip  and prepared by leading IT market research and advisory firm IDC  highlights the rising role of AI-powered conversational commerce and omnichannel communication platforms in the Asia-Pacific region.

The IDC InfoBrief titled Revolutionising Customer Experience through the Power of Conversational Commerce provides a guide for brands to successfully adopt and leverage this strategy, ultimately maximising value for both businesses and customers.

According to the report, customers born and raised in the digital age have high expectations and carefully evaluate their interactions with brands throughout the buying journey. This has resulted in a move away from traditional transaction-level experiences to relationship-based ones.

In Vietnam, for example, telecommunications service providers have used conversational commerce platforms for account notifications and offer hyper-personalised promotions and discounts to customers.

Recent statistics demonstrate that brands adopting an omnichannel approach and delivering an end-to-end experience have higher chances of enhancing loyalty and customer lifetime value.

Conversational commerce relies on Communication Platform as a Service (CPaaS) and Software as a Service (SaaS) as crucial tools, empowering organisations to seamlessly integrate real-time communication features (such as voice, text, video, instant messaging, and social media) into their internal and external applications using a developer-friendly API as the building blocks.

Capitalising on the advancements in AI, conversational commerce has gained significant traction among businesses in the Asia-Pacific region.

In Vietnam, the potential for conversational commerce is incredibly wide thanks to the high percentage of Internet users (77.93 million out of a total population of 98.53 million), which contributes to the popularity of social networking platforms (64.4 million adult users at the start of 2023). In addition to Facebook and Instagram, users in Vietnam are very active on communication apps such as Zalo and Viber.

E-commerce is one of the fastest-growing business segments in Vietnam. Online retailers are using conversational AI-powered chatbots to address customer queries in real-time and keep customers apprised of orders.

CPaaS- and SaaS-based solutions enable businesses to provide a seamless customer journey that is visible across multiple touchpoints, empowering them to branch out globally.

Velid Begovic, vice president of Revenue at Infobip said, As businesses embrace the potential of conversational commerce, they leverage AI technology to create meaningful connections and unlock new growth opportunities. Organisations need an actionable, customer-centric strategy and the ability to invest in the right set of tools to grow the business and keep customers happy. This will empower them to stay ahead in a dynamic marketplace.

Nikhil Batra, research director of Telecommunications at IDC Asia-Pacific said, "Contextualised customer interactions boost profitability and foster emotionally fulfilling engagements. The rapidly increasing use of social networks in Vietnam further fuels businesses' desire to improve the customer experience, and thus they are investing in conversational commerce to help them grow more quickly."

Building an ecosystem for e-commerce development Building out an ecosystem is quite necessary for not only startups but also e-commerce firms to grow and achieve a successful breakthrough.

Another bites the dust in e-commerce The local e-commerce market is proving tougher than imagined by most as players drop out of the race left and right, while others are hanging on by a fingernail.

Leflair  the new victim of e-commerce in Vietnam Leflair, an e-commerce platform specialised in flash sales and branded goods, officially announced suspending operations in Vietnam, yielding to the capital and cost pressure.

Livestream commerce booms Livestreaming jobs are forecast to boom this year as the pandemic continues to stimulate the demand for online shopping. However, the trend is also putting the government on edge as it seeks suitable management modes.
The race is on for stalled power projects to switch to a greener model, Photo: Shutterstock

A series of coal-fired power plants are awaiting the governments green light to be converted into liquefied natural gas (LNG)-to-power utilities, as coal gets phased out.

The waiting list includes projects from Cong Thanh Thermal Power and others at Quang Tri, Nam Dinh I, Vinh Tan III, and Song Hau II, according to the latest report of the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) submitted to the government. In addition, Thailand-based EGAT, the investor of the long-stalled Quang Tri plant, has agreed to halt its coal project, but there is no confirmation if it will decide to switch it to LNG.

Vietnams Power Development Plan VIII (PDP8) opens the way to convert from coal power to LNG for projects that are behind schedule.

However, a source from the MoIT said, Whether such conversion is allowed or not will depend on whether the structure of the power source is still appropriate, the financial capacity of the investors and their associated contractors, the power tariffs negotiated, among other aspects.

Under the PDP8, no new coal-fired plants will be developed after 2030. The plan also imposes a deadline of June 2024 for the aforementioned coal plants to proceed with their projects; otherwise, delayed or abandoned coal-fired ventures will be terminated and replaced by renewable or LNG-based power plants.

The north-central province of Thanh Hoa, where the Cong Thanh project is located, explained to the MoIT in its dispatch last month that its conversion will benefit from the synchronous infrastructure of Nghi Son Economic Zone as well as its deepwater seaport complex.

The developer plans to fully convert to LNG by 2028. After conversion, the plants capacity would increase from 600MW to 1,500MW and it will consume 1.2-1.5 million tonnes of imported LNG annually.

Cong Thanh Thermal Power has been able to alleviate concerns related to capital arrangements with GE, BP, and Actis Investment Fund all reported to be involved in arranging funding and providing equipment and LNG supply.

If the Cong Thanh project is approved by the government, it can be used as a model for the remaining projects that are currently behind in their path to conversion, said Lam Nguyen Hoang Thao, a senior associate at Russin & Vecchi Vietnam.

Nghe An Peoples Committee has requested relevant authorities to help ensure development progress of the Quynh Lap LNG power project in the central province.

The Quynh Lap project was initially planned as a coal-fired thermal plant. In the previous PDP7, the venture was split into two facilities with a total capacity of 2,400MW. Construction of the $2.2 billion project kicked off in 2015 but further development of the project was later shelved.

Standing Vice Chairman of Nghe An Peoples Committee Le Hong Vinh said that any more delay will cause serious consequences not only for the security of national electricity supply, but also for political security, social order, and safety.

Ngo Duc Lam, former deputy director of the Institute of Energy under the MoIT, expressed optimism that many of such delayed coal-fired ventures can be encouraged to switch to greener energy, as it will be easier to fund than traditional coal-fired models.

When the investors have capital and premises, they have relatively complete conditions that can be tough to solve in the implementation stage, Lam added.

Other nations have been working on the same process for several years. According to the US Energy Information Administration, between 2011 and 2019, the US switched 103 of its coal-fired power plants to natural gas-fired plants.

The two different methods used were either retiring existing coal-fired power plants and replacing them with new natural gas combined cycle plants, or converting the boiler of coal-fired steam plants to burn other types of fuel, such as natural gas.

The vast majority went for the latter option and, in some of the later transitions, coal-burning capacity was maintained to allow the plants to burn whatever fuel was deemed most efficient.

As of last year, Vietnam boasted nearly 20 LNG-fired power plants that were in the pipeline nationwide, including Delta Offshore Energys Bac Lieu LNG-to-power project and LNG Quang Ninh, which is being developed by PV Power, Colavi, Tokyo Gas, ExxonMobil, and other groups.

According to LNG Industry magazine, three countries  Germany, the Philippines, and Vietnam  began importing LNG for the first time this year. By the end of 2024, it is expected that Antigua, Australia, Cyprus, and Nicaragua will also start importing LNG, while several more countries are in advanced stages of developing import capacity.

Nghe An promotes development of Quynh Lap LNG-fueled power project The People's Committee of central Nghe An province has requested relevant departments, branches, localities and agencies to strictly implement assigned tasks to ensure quality and development progress of Quynh Lap liquefied-natural-gas (LNG)-fueled power project.

Sumitomo to cooperate with PV Gas in LNG Sumitomo Corporation expects to collaborate with PV Gas in developing liquefied natural gas projects chain in Van Phong Economic Zone of the central coastal province of Khanh Hoa.

Phu My 3 to rely on costlier LNG The Phu My 3 power plant faces challenges as it transitions from BOT (build-operate-transfer) to Vietnamese control in March next year, marking the culmination of a 20-year contract, according to a recent announcement from the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT)
This week, ocean temperatures reached an all-time high, breaking the previous record by a wide margin and showing no signs of abating.

According to recent data from the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service, the average worldwide ocean surface temperature touched 20.96 degrees Celsius (69.7 Fahrenheit) at the end of July. This surpassed the previous record of 20.95 degrees Celsius established in 2016. Copernicus ocean data can be traced all the way back to 1979.

Scientists warn that the globe has to prepare for further ocean temperature increases as El Nino adds to the already elevated temperatures brought about by human-caused global warming. They are worried that this year's record-breaking ocean temperatures are only the beginning of a dangerous trend.

Start of Disastrous Trend?

British Antarctic Survey oceanographer Kaitlin Naughten expressed concern about the state of the ocean based on the Copernicus data, CNN reported. She added that the current sea surface temperatures are "exceptionally and unseasonably warm," having far-reaching ramifications, particularly for complex ecosystems like coral reefs.

Oceanographer Gregory C. Johnson of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has also reported that sea surface temperatures have increased dramatically this year. "It's about 15 years worth of the long-term warming trend in a year," he told CNN.

The temperature may get considerably higher. According to Johnson, the average surface temperature stays rather high throughout the month of August and into the beginning of September before gradually dropping.

Greenhouse gases are still being released, Johnson added. Long-term, therefore, sea surface temperatures will continue to rise unless society as a whole decides to drastically reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.

See Also: Gulf Stream Collapse: Scientists Warn Dire Consequences in 2025

Maritime Heat Waves

This year's maritime heat waves have been especially shocking to experts due to the severity of the damage they have caused. Overheating the ocean may cause coral reefs to bleach rapidly, which can cause the loss of other marine species and an increase in sea level.

Multiple coral reefs in the Florida Keys have been entirely bleached or killed as a result of a marine heat wave that has raised water temperatures to "hot tub" levels.

Extreme heat in the North Atlantic off the shores of the United Kingdom and Ireland in June, described as "totally unprecedented" by NOAA, led to worries about the effects on marine life. Temperatures were as high as 5 degrees Celsius (9 degrees Fahrenheit) above average.

The warming of the ocean also affects the weather. When it comes to mitigating the effects of pollution that contributes to global warming, the oceans serve a crucial role as a buffer. Warmer water is less efficient in removing carbon from the atmosphere, which contributes to global warming.

See Also: July's Record-Breaking Heat Waves Linked to Climate Change, Experts Say

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
According to the agreement terms, Koterasu will acquire secondary shares of An Gia (ticker AGG) with a total value of $10 million. This transaction is to be executed via a put-through or order matching on the stock market.

This investment demonstrates Koterasu's unwavering confidence in An Gia's development capabilities and outstanding reputation, as evidenced by their history of highly successful collaborations.

By becoming a strategic shareholder in AGG, Koterasu will be granted with the call option to directly invest in An Gia's The Gio project in the southern province of Binh Duong, the sale launch of which is planned for 2024.

Nguyen Ba Sang, chairman of the Board of Directors of An Gia stated, Given the robust recovery of the real estate market and the steadfast government support policies, An Gia firmly intends to expand its land portfolio and carry out new projects. The investment from Koterasu is crucial for An Gia to secure the necessary financial resources for future merger and acquisition endeavours.

With this timely capital infusion from Koterasu, An Gia is well-prepared to introduce affordable apartment products to meet the growing demands of the middle-class population in Vietnam.

Representing Koterasu, Yamaguchi stated, An Gia is one of the few real estate developers that adopts a customer-centric approach, consistently demonstrating a sincere commitment and striving to deliver high-quality residential products. We believe that An Gia will strengthen its legacy and continue to contribute to society and Vietnamese consumers.

As for An Gia, the company expects to receive VND1 trillion ($42.2 million) in the second half of 2023.

These inflows will mainly come from the handover of sold apartments in the Westgate project, as well as the successful sale of the remaining units in The Standard project.

With this timely capital infusion and international funding support from Koterasu, An Gia is well-prepared to introduce affordable apartment products to meet the growing demands of the middle-class population in Vietnam.

Looking ahead to the 2023-2025 period, An Gia plans to launch 9,000 apartment units across three projects  The Gio (3 hectares) in Binh Duong province, and BC27 (27 hectares) and BC3.2 (3.2 hectares) in Ho Chi Minh Citys Binh Chanh district.

Bac Lieu grants investment certificate to 13 projects worth $740 million Bac Lieu Peoples Committee granted investment certificates for 13 projects with the total investment capital of VND17 trillion ($739.1 million).

Compal Electronics arrives with $260 million investment in Thai Binh Renowned electronics manufacturer Compal Electronics has made a substantial investment of $260 million in Lien Ha Thai Industrial Park in the northern province of Thai Binh, delivering a boost to Vietnam's industrial growth prospects.
Garment and textile employers are weighing up potential changes in how they deal with foreign workers, photo Le Toan

The draft decree amending and supplementing Decree No.152/2020/ND-CP on regulations for foreigners working in Vietnam proposes two key options.

The first is allowing municipal and provincial departments of labour, invalids, and social affairs in localities to manage foreign labourers, including granting work permits, while the second option is assigning local peoples committees to carry out this management.

The draft aims to create improvements for agencies, organisations, and enterprises to recruit foreign workers with high professional and technical qualifications as well as experience for positions that Vietnamese workers have not been able to undertake.

At present, the management of foreign employees is subject to both local departments of labour, invalids, and social affairs and local management authorities of industrial zones (IZs) and economic zones.

For example, last year, Hanoi Department of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs issued 6,000 work permits and Hanoi Industrial Zones Management Authority issued 1,130. The figures in the northern port city of Haiphong are 5,500 and 4,700, respectively, and in the northern province of Bac Ninh the figures are 1,300 and 1,800, according to the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MoLISA).

The existing model for managing foreign workers and granting permits is causing difficulties for recruitment, and a unified agency is being suggested to oversee this job.

According to the MoLISA, the advantage of the first option is to ensure unified state management and promote decentralisation so that employers have only to go to one agency in a locality to apply for foreign work permits.

In the second option, assigning municipal and provincial peoples committees to manage foreign labourers may not unify the state management of recruitment if the committees want to authorise another agency to manage non-Vietnamese workers.

Le Thi Hong Minh, a representative of Coway Vina Co. Ltd., said, The assignment of local departments of labour, invalids, and social affairs to manage foreign workers in a locality will help to unify regulations and would be convenient for work permit applications, saving both time and costs for foreign workers.

However, union chairman at a shoe manufacturer in the southern province of Dong Nai told VIR, At present, being authorised by local peoples committees, local management authorities of IZs and economic zones are responsible for granting work permits. The entire procedure has been smooth for us, so we do not think it is necessary to change this provision.

Currently, more than 60 management authorities of IZs and economic zones, concentrated in the bigger cities and provinces, have been tasked with the granting of work permits for foreign employees.

Kuwait Airways to lay off 1,500 foreign employees KUWAIT CITY: State-owned Kuwait Airways said Thursday (May 28) it will lay off 1,500 expatriate employees due to "significant difficulties" caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has called for a 2 per cent reduction in electricity use annually and a cut in power losses in transmission lines to less than 6 per cent by 2025.

By 2030, at least half of all office and residential buildings should use rooftop solar power, and only LED bulbs should be used in street lights by 2025.

According to Phung Hoai Duong, general director of Signify Vietnam, switching from traditional lighting systems to LED alternatives presents a substantial opportunity for cost savings. The transition is estimated to result in an 80 per cent reduction, equivalent to cutting hundreds of tonnes of CO 2 and saving VND6.3 million ($260.38) for each tonne. Residential areas stand to benefit from a potential reduction of 276 tons of CO 2 emissions, saving VND1.73 trillion ($71.5 million).

By converting to smart lighting systems, not only large businesses but also individuals and organisations can contribute to the goal of green growth. In addition, partnering with companies that have achieved carbon neutrality will create a competitive advantage to help businesses meet the emissions targets  including all indirect emissions happening throughout the entire supply chain  while promoting customer trust and loyalty, he added.

On September 13, Signify Innovation Day 2023  held for the first time in Vietnam  was co-organised by the Dutch Business Association in Vietnam (DBAV) and the National Innovation Centre, gathering a great line up of speakers from the Ministry of Construction, the Dutch Consulate General, Dutch corporations, and experts from Signify Vietnam.

Signify Innovation Day 2023 exemplified the multinational lighting corporations commitment to supporting Vietnams net-zero goal.

Guido van Rooy, executive director of the DBAV, said, Dutch businesses are committed to supporting Vietnam in achieving its net-zero emissions target by 2050. We will facilitate this effort by providing a platform for knowledge exchange, collaborative initiatives, and strategic partnerships. By leveraging these resources, Dutch businesses operating in Vietnam can jointly adapt their strategies and actions to the local market."

"This concerted effort demonstrates our dedication to environmental responsibility and fosters a strong and mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries, Rooy concluded.

The event also introduced new groundbreaking lighting innovations, allowing stakeholders and industry leaders to see how green lighting solutions can lead to more sustainable development. They strongly agreed that the commitment to net-zero emissions needs to be realised by balancing economic development and resource protection.

Vietnam-Singapore Smart Energy Solutions opens headquarters Vietnam - Singapore Smart Energy Solutions JSC (VSSES), a joint venture between Becamex IDC Corporation (Becamex IDC), Singapores Sembcorp Industries (Sembcorp), and Vietnam Singapore Industrial Park J.V. Co (VSIP JV), held on October 30 a grand opening at its new headquarters in the southern province of Binh Duong. This marks a milestone in the companys commitment towards delivering a new generation of sustainable smart energy solutions in Vietnam.

Outlining the future of smart energy grids To enable the transition to renewable sources, investment in the smart grids of tomorrow is necessary. Power systems all over the world are on the verge of transitioning towards a more distributed electricity generation and storage model.
Viet Dragon Securities Joint Stock Company (VDSC) and Japan-based Ryobi Group signed an MoU on September 13 aimed at expanding their strategic collaboration across various investment sectors, including investment banking, asset management, and customer network development.

Among the distinguished attendees were Toshiyuki Matsuda, chairman of Ryobi Group, and Nguyen Mien Tuan, chairman of the Board of Directors of VDSC, flanked by several senior leaders from both companies.

According to the agreement, both parties have committed to leveraging each other's strengths and expertise. Specifically, Ryobi Group will actively pursue market information and investment opportunities introduced by VDSC.

Concurrently, VDSC, capitalising on its core strengths, has pledged to assist Ryobi Group in exploring viable investment prospects across public equity, private equity, and fixed-income securities markets that align with the investment needs of Ryobi Group and its affiliated companies, as well as Ryobi Groups extensive partner network.

Speaking at the ceremony, Matsuda remarked, "Ryobi's strategic direction will be increasingly geared towards overseas investment, with a particular emphasis on Vietnam. We believe that VDSC, with its deep-rooted relationships with Vietnamese conglomerates and businesses, will offer Ryobi invaluable market insights.

On our end, Ryobis diverse industry ecosystem has fostered numerous relationships with conglomerates and businesses. Based on this, we are optimistic about supporting VDSC in connecting with businesses keen on investing in the Vietnamese market."

On behalf of VDSC, Tuan said, We are elated to collaborate and assist Ryobi Group, a leading multi-sector conglomerate in Japan, in identifying opportunities and expanding their investment footprint in the Vietnamese market. We are confident that our position, rich experience, and expansive partner and customer network will allow us to support Ryobi Group effectively, ensuring they capitalise on fitting and efficient investment opportunities in Vietnam.

Ryobi Group, established in 1910 in Okayama Prefecture, Japan, is a multi-sector conglomerate offering services in diverse areas ranging from transportation and tourism to IT and urban development.

In Vietnam, Ryobi Group has maintained a subsidiary since 2015, operating predominantly in the transport sector.

KB Financial's 'glocalisation' strategy to focus on Southeast Asia Yoon Jong-kyoo, chairman and CEO of KB Financial Group, has reinforced the groups commitment to its 'glocalisation' strategy, highlighting Southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam, as key regions for customised product offerings and market penetration.

DNSE Securities takes lead in new account openings in Q2 Despite multiple hardships, Hanoi-based securities firm DNSE posted impressive results in the second quarter (Q2) of this year, with 41 per cent jump in operating revenue while its accounting profit before tax skyrocketed by 720 per cent on-year.

Vietcap Securities raises $100 million in overseas loan Vietcap Securities has successfully secured a $100 million capital-backed loan from Mega International Commercial Bank, underscoring its growth ambitions and strengthening its financial standing.
The announcement was made during a signing ceremony with President Joe Biden, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, White House officials, and Vietnamese government leaders on September 11.

With enhanced fuel efficiency and environmental performance, the 737 MAX will provide best-in-class flexibility for Vietnams growing aviation market.

The 737 MAX family will allow Vietnam Airlines to fly up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km) on increasingly popular international and regional routes.

US and Vietnamese officials said the commitment will bolster jobs in both countries and strengthen the bilateral economic partnership. Building on Boeings long history of collaboration with Vietnams civil aviation industry, the carriers 737 MAX fleet will support the countrys goal of becoming a leading aviation hub.

Dang Ngoc Hoa, chairman of the Board of Directors of Vietnam Airlines stated, "In line with Vietnam Airlines' 2025-2030 fleet strategy and vision to 2035, aircraft investment underpins the positive recovery momentum and prosperous outlook for the company."

The new narrow-body fleet will allow us to foster our overall development and extend our high-quality service on both our domestic and Asian routes. It will also modernise our fleet with more fuel-efficient models, Hoa continued.

Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing said, Southeast Asia is one of the worlds fastest growing aviation markets, and the 737 MAX is the perfect aeroplane for Vietnam Airlines to efficiently meet that regional demand. We value our historic partnership with Vietnam Airlines, dating back to 1995 when the airline first leased 767s.

Since the launch, more than 100 customers around the world have placed firm orders for more than 5,600 737 MAX planes. The model reduces fuel use and carbon emissions by 20 per cent and has a smaller noise footprint than the planes it replaces.

Vietnam Airlines currently operates a fleet of 15 787 Dreamliner jets and serves over 50 destinations in 17 countries. A member of the SkyTeam Alliance, passengers flying on Vietnam Airlines or any of its 18 partners can earn and redeem miles for travel to 1,000 destinations worldwide.

Boeing is committed to its strong relationships with Vietnamese suppliers and partnering to create a strong, efficient, and resilient global supply chain to deliver the highest quality products and services to its customers.

Currently, Boeing has a corporate office in Hanoi and field service offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Action required for aviation to achieve net-zero commitments Fleet renewal, improved operational efficiency, renewable energy, and advanced technology are the four main actions that need to be taken by the commercial aviation industry between now and 2050

Boeing accelerates cooperation with Vietnamese suppliers Boeing, the worlds leading aerospace company based in the US, are accelerating cooperation with Vietnamese suppliers and universities to provide a foundation for long-term industrial growth, according to Boeing Vietnam Country Director Michael Nguyen.

Manufacturers backing local suppliers Global manufacturers are increasingly offering solutions to foster the competitiveness of the countrys supporting industries, thus creating a solid foundation for a shift in the global supply chain.

Boeing opens office in Hanoi, commits to expanding investment in Vietnam Brendan Nelson, senior vice chairman of aerospace giant Boeing, has underscored the company's unwavering commitment to expanding its presence and fostering collaborative ventures in his latest visit to Vietnam.
At last weeks Hanoi workshop on attracting foreign investment in high technology, Dang Dinh Tung, deputy director general of the Ministry of Science and Technologys (MoST) Department of Technology Appraisal, Examination, and Assessment, claimed that most tech transfer contracts were conducted between parent companies and their subsidiaries, without any effect on local enterprises.

Vietnam seeking technology transfer into the local sphere, illustration photo

Foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) make up more than 90 per cent of enterprises that have already registered technology transfer in Vietnam. During 2007-2018, there were almost 300 technology transfer contracts registered at the MoST, while there were more than 400 signed in the last five years after the Law on Technology Transfer took effect.

The number of tech transfer contracts has increased multiple in recent years. Most of them are FIEs coming from Japan, South Korea, the EU, the US, and ASEAN countries, in fields such as electronics, telecoms, vehicles, medicine and medical equipment, chemicals, cosmetics, and beverages, Tung said.

However, local companies are currently out of the loop as the majority of contracts are between parent companies and their subsidiaries, he added.

Tung noted that while more than 100 multinationals have invested in Vietnam, only Samsung and LG have thus far built research and development (R&D) centres in Hanoi.

Around 2,200 researchers are working at Samsungs new R&D centre in Hanoi, almost all of them are Vietnamese people. The company is increasingly enhancing Vietnamese supply chains and transferring technologies by entering into tie-ups with more local enterprises. The number of local groups in its supply chains ballooned from four tier-1 and 21 tier-2 groups in 2014 to 51 and 206 respectively last year.

The number of local suppliers has risen 10-fold in the past eight years, reaffirming Samsungs commitment to long-term investment in this country, said Choi Joo Ho, CEO of Samsung Vietnam.

LG Electronics also launched a centre in March, located at Hanois Keangnam Landmark 72 building and boasting 750 researchers.

Tran Toan Thang, head of International Studies at the Vietnam Institute for Development Strategies, said that the goal of tech transfer and its spillover effects on the domestic private sector is attracting foreign investment, but over the last 30 years of mobilisation, there has been little improvement.

Vertical linkages spread can make a positive impact, but in horizontal linkages, FIEs are creating negative impacts on businesses in the same industry, Thang explained.

He said that FIEs entering Vietnam in recent years have only created a spillover effect among enterprises in the same industry through four channels: domestic enterprises copying the tech of FIEs; labour moving from FIEs to domestic enterprises; the pressure of input and output competition with export-oriented FIEs forcing domestic firms to update technologies; and some vertical and horizontal link channels between FIEs and local partners.

It is difficult for us to learn anything from FIEs because the manufacturing industry is not easy to learn about immediately, Thang said. If we put a mechanic next to a technology engineer, I do not expect the mechanic can learn anything. And it will be very difficult for a worker at an early stage in an FIE factory to learn about any technology. Those are the barriers to technology diffusion.

Large domestic private enterprises are willing to transfer technology, but high-tech investing in Vietnam is challenging due to the lack of high-tech human resources, he added.

Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Tran Duy Dong said that even if FIEs want to give, local partners often do not have enough absorption capacity or are not willing to receive, leading to difficulties.

Further improving the capacity of domestic enterprises and employees to approach the tech level of FIEs, as well as building more attractive policies to promote tech transfer between FIEs and local partners, are quite necessary to improve the current situation, he said.

In the first eight months of 2023, there were just over 1,900 newly registered projects, 830 projects registered to adjust capital, and more than 22,200 transactions of capital contribution and share purchase by foreign investors with a total capital of nearly $18.2 billion. Of this, foreign direct investment into professional sci-tech activities reached $620.8 million, an on-year increase of almost 30 per cent.

Tran Duy Dong - Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Entering a new era with numerous changes, Vietnam actively attracts and selectively cooperates with foreign investment, and considers quality, performance, technology, and environmental protection as the main evaluation criteria. Projects with advanced or new, high, clean technologies, modern management, high added value, spillover effects, and connecting production and supply chains worldwide will be prioritised. Vietnam has initially received new overseas funding flows in high technology like Intel and Samsung. The entrance of global technology giants has developed the domestic market rapidly. However, to retain them, in addition to maintaining macroeconomic stability and appropriate taxes and incentives, we have to build synchronous technical infrastructure like industrial zones, factories, electricity, water supply, social infrastructure, and high-quality local human resources. Foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) are also accelerating productivity and technology improvement of local businesses, through competitive pressure, and applying new production models to develop and adapt amid globalisation. More local businesses are participating in supply chains of large FIEs. However, there are still some shortcomings. Machinery, equipment, and production lines in FIEs are more advanced than in domestic enterprises and funding in this area has been low. Technology transfer goals have not been met. Tech spillovers from FIEs to local enterprises is still limited. Therefore, it is necessary to develop policies and mechanisms to link the two groups of businesses, including the development of supporting industries, links in product supply chains, and technology transfer. Domestic enterprises should proactively look for tech transfer channels through contracts on purchasing inventions, copyrights, commercial rights, research cooperation with local agencies, organisations, and through FIEs. Choi Joo Ho - CEO, Samsung Vietnam We highly appreciate the support of the Vietnamese government in terms of incentive policies for technology corporations. However, there is stagnation of the global economy and a decline in consumption leading to negative revenue growth, along with the upcoming effects of the global minimum tax (GMT). In Vietnam, we have been struggling with power supply problems recently, an additional payment of corporate income tax at the Bac Ninh factory, and a VAT refund at the factory in Ho Chi Minh City that we have yet to overcome. If Vietnam does not carefully manage the effects of the GMT, foreign investors will have to think carefully about changing destinations. We especially recommend the government to build special incentives for major FIEs with large contributions to national socioeconomic development, and to develop an industrial ecosystem so they can ensure continued investing and expansion of operations here. Currently, we are working with the Ministry of Industry and Trade to support local suppliers in approaching and applying high technologies. For example, a consulting initiative with 400 local businesses between 2015 and 2021 achieved impressive results of raised productivity, lower defect numbers, and reducing inventory by 40-50 per cent. Nguyen Hai Minh - Vice chairman European Chamber of Commerce Vietnam In our recent surveys on the business investment environment, Vietnam was chosen in the top five destinations globally, and the majority of European businesses would like to maintain and expand their investment scale here. To spread knowledge and technologies from foreign-invested groups to local suppliers here, policies related to both investment and technology should be loosened and transparent, which are the regulatory framework, and orientation for businesses to develop. In fact, there are numerous issues such as incentive packages applied to high-tech enterprises, and policies for R&D funds. Businesses spend almost a year applying for confirmation, and numerous companies got discouraged and gave up. If a business invests in R&D and fails, which is common, and cannot create new products or solutions for commercial business, this failed cost will not be deductible for the business, according to current regulations. They are unnecessary and complicated procedures. We propose to amend and simplify to make them easier to implement. We have also seen new trends such as establishing R&D centres. Almost all businesses in Europe are small or medium-sized. If they establish an R&D centre in Vietnam to share and spread knowledge, it is quite hard to receive incentives because current regulations require investing at least $50 million in R&D to receive tax incentives. So Vietnam should lower the requirements for enterprises to enjoy incentives. We cannot expect to attract both much investment capital and a lot of brainpower.

RoK expects to cooperate with Vietnam in human resources training, technology transfer The Republic of Korea (RoK) wishes to collaborate with Vietnam in high quality human resources training, technology transfer as well as in mineral exploitation and processing, said RoK Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Lee Chang-yang during talks with visiting Vietnamese Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien in Seoul on August 2.
On September 12, the English-speaking app ELSA announced that it had raised $23 million in Series C funding, led by UOB Venture Management and joined by UniPresident and Asia Growth Investment Fund. Previous investors Gradient Ventures (Googles AI-focused venture fund), Monks Hill Ventures, Globant Ventures, and Vietnam Investments Group also participated.

The financing will help fuel the launch and expansion of ELSA AI into international markets like Taiwan, South Korea, and the Middle East, and accelerate partnerships with corporations and schools in countries like Japan where English learners are looking to elevate their language skills to access global job opportunities.

We believe AI will pave a new way forward for the education industry, said Clarissa Loh, executive director of UOB Venture Management.

ELSA's affordable and personalised AI-enabled English-speaking solution will allow users to improve their skills, thereby opening up more job opportunities, especially in developing countries. We are excited to support ELSAs growth into more markets, especially in Southeast Asia, Loh added.

Another edtech startup, Vuihoc, has raised $6 million in its latest funding round, with TNB Aura taking the lead. The round also was joined by Vulpes Ventures, DT& Investment, Colopl Next, and Nextrans.

Meanwhile, education startup TEKY Alpha has secured $5 million from Singaporean investment firm Sweef Capital to expand its operations. The existing investor, Hong Kong-based Strategic Year Holdings, also participated in the round.

In addition, Vietnamese edtech startup MindX has gained $15 million from a series B funding round led by the education-focused private equity fund Kaizenvest. Other backers included Thailand's education firm Aksorn, Japanese human resources company Mynavi, and the return of the series-A lead Wavemaker Partners.

According to the Vietnam: A Global Engine of Growth report by Golden Gate Ventures and Boston Consulting Group, Vietnam's edtech sector is gaining attention from purpose-driven investors.

The edtech opportunity in Vietnam is born from the large and growing young population that has a strong focus on a quality education. The higher spending propensity on education is also due to a deep-rooted belief in the importance of gaining educational advantages, coupled with rising disposable income and buoyant economic growth.

The report also pointed out that the digital transformation of education in Vietnam is still in its early stages. In 2019, the nation was among the 10 fastest-growing online education markets worldwide, with an annual growth rate of 44.3 per cent.

Currently, there are over 200 edtech firms in Vietnam serving 2 million users nationwide. The market size is estimated at no less than $2 billion.

Understanding the philosophy of edtech As the world of education continues to undergo a rapid transformation, the intersection of technology and learning has emerged as a key area of focus for international investors. Sandeep Aneja, founder and managing partner of Singaporean education-focused fund management firm Kaizenvest, told VIRs Celine Luu about the potential of edtech in Vietnam and beyond.

Vietnamese edtech startup Vuihoc secures $6 million in funding round led by TNB Aura The Vietnamese edtech startup, Vuihoc, has successfully raised $6 million in its latest funding round, with TNB Aura  a prominent venture capital firm  taking the lead.
Although the above regulations have contributed to tightening the management of recruitment of foreigners, they have also caused obstacles that make it difficult for the country to engage more high-quality workers.

Doan Vu Hoai Nam - Associate, ASL LAW Firm

The current process and procedures for applying for a work permit for foreigners are mainly governed by the Labour Code 2019 and Decree No.152/2020/ND-CP.

According to the law, the process of applying for a work permit for foreigners working in Vietnam includes several steps. The first is that at least 15 working days before the date on which the foreign worker is expected to start working for the employer, the applicant shall submit an application to the department of labour, invalids, and social affairs in localities where that worker plans to work.

Accordingly, the companies or employer has to obtain approval from the authority for the position of the foreigners that the employer recruit. To do so, the employer needs to prove that Vietnamese workers cannot meet the employers needs.

The second step is that within five working days after receiving a complete application, the department shall issue a work permit according to the form printed and issued by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs.

After being granted a work permit, the employer and foreign worker must sign a written labour contract in accordance with the provisions of Vietnamese labour law before the expected date of working for the employer. The employer must send the signed labour contract upon request to the department, and the employment contract is the original or certified copy.

Although the law clearly stipulates the process as well as the necessary documents when applying, both the employer and worker may face obstacles in the aforementioned process. Firstly, the dossier includes numerous documents that need consular legality, including health certificates, criminal record cards issued by other countries, and documents proving that the employees worked for foreign employers.

The process of consular legalisation of these documents is often costly and may take a long time, depending on the laws of each relevant country.

Secondly, there have been difficulties in explaining the need to employ non-nationals, which include proving the demand, training plans, recruitment notices, and more. Specifically, the employer is required to prove that they have recruited Vietnamese people, but local workers do not meet their requirements.

In addition, competent authorities require recruitment plans and training plans of employers to prove that they have recruited Vietnamese and trained them for certain positions before recruiting foreigners.

Thirdly, according to the law, a work permit can only be renewed once for a maximum term of two years. Thus, when foreign employees wish to continue working in Vietnam, even when with the same job, they must prepare all applications for a new work permit after the first renewal.

Hence, if such workers no longer keep the old dossiers that they previously submitted to state agencies, they will have to reapply for these records. This may make it very difficult for workers as they may not be able to get these documents or take a lot of time to carry out the consular legalisation procedure.

Fourthly, each work permit grants permission for foreign individuals to work at an enterprise or organisation. Currently, the law does not restrict foreign workers from engaging in employment at multiple enterprises within Vietnam concurrently. However, should non-Vietnamese employees choose to work at two or more enterprises/organisations, they are obliged to apply for work permits.

Although the time for issuance of a work permit is five working days as mentioned, it has been well documented by various organisations and associations that some companies have needed well over two months to complete procedures and gain approval of a permit.

For these shortcomings, we propose simplifications. First of all, the law should specify that employers (except contractors) before employing foreigners must announce the recruitment of Vietnamese workers to positions expected to recruit foreign workers on the Public Service Portal for at least 15 days. By stipulating the publication of recruitment notices on the national portal, employers can effectively articulate the factors impeding their ability to hire Vietnamese workers.

In addition, this suggestion facilitates Vietnamese individuals in accessing employment opportunities offered by agencies, organisations, and enterprises. Moreover, it fosters transparency in the labour recruitment process and strengthens the relationship between labour supply and demand.

Another suggestion is that the competent authority should consider increasing the term of work permits to meet the needs of businesses for a longer period of time and to unify labour contracts signed with foreign workers.

In addition, if the foreign worker wishes to continue working at the company, when carrying out the procedure for granting a new work permit, the Vietnamese law may omit the application components that the worker previously submitted to demonstrate their ability. Thereby, this can help simplify administrative procedures in Vietnam.

Finally, legal provisions could be amended to allow non-nationals working at multiple locations to have only one permit. Specifically, for those working at multiple locations in a province or city, the employee is granted a work permit by the department of labour, invalids, and social affairs. For foreigners working at multiple locations in more than one province or city, work permits will be issued by the department.

93,000 foreigners currently have work permits in Vietnam There are currently more than 93,000 foreigners with work permits in Vietnam, according to data from the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs.

RoK, Vietnam recognise each other's international driving permits Citizens of the Republic of Korea (RoK) with a valid driver's licence can soon be eligible to drive in Vietnam with an international driving permit under a bilateral pact that will come into effect on July 23.

Procedures to be streamlined to grant work permits to foreigners in Vietnam The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs has been assigned to urgently gather public opinions and streamline procedures for granting work permits to foreign nationals working in Vietnam.
(Photo : JOEL SAGET / AFP) (JOEL SAGET/AFP via Getty Images)

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved new Pfizer and Moderna vaccines to combat the rising number of COVID-19 cases causing an increase in hospitalizations.

The United States Food and Drug Administration approved new vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna as hospitalizations are rising due to COVID-19 cases.

The Monday approval was focused on updated COVID-19 vaccines from the pharmaceutical companies and put them on track to get to residents in the next few days. The new shots targeted the Omicron variant XBB.1.5 and were approved for use on people aged 12 or older. The new vaccines were also authorized for emergency use for children aged six months up to 11 years old.

FDA Approves New COVID-19 Vaccines

Despite the authorization, the new vaccines from the two leading pharmaceutical companies will not be available to Americans immediately. An advisory panel of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is set to meet on Tuesday to vote on a recommendation for using the new shots.

After the health agency's director signs off on the recommendations, the new vaccines will be administered at pharmacies, health clinics, and other vaccine distribution sites across the United States, as per CNBC.

In August, United States President Joe Biden's administration said it was expecting new single-strain vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax that target the XBB.1.5 variant to be available to the general public in mid-September.

On Monday, the FDA did not announce a decision regarding an updated COVID-19 shot from Novavax. However, the pharmaceutical company said in a statement that the agency was still reviewing its vaccine candidate. On the same day, Novavax shares closed nearly 13% lower following the approval of the other updated shots.

The pharmaceutical company's vaccine uses protein-based technology, a decades-old method deployed in routine vaccinations against hepatitis B and shingles. On the other hand, Pfizer and Moderna's vaccines use messenger RNA, which teaches cells how to make proteins that trigger an immune response against the coronavirus.

Read Also: UK Health Agency Monitors New COVID Variant BA.2.86 as It Spreads

Rise in Coronavirus Cases

In a statement, top FDA scientist Dr. Peter Marks said that the public can be assured that Pfizer and Moderna's new and updated vaccines have already met the agency's rigorous scientific standards for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality, according to Reuters.

CDC Director Mandy Cohen's endorsement is expected to come in the next few days and is set to clear the way for the new vaccines. The official said that she expects the jabs to roll out in September.

The authorization of the FDA follows a late summer rise in COVID-19 cases at a time when the new EG.5 subvariant of Omicron, nicknamed Eris, started spreading rapidly across the nation and other countries. Scientists also raised concerns about the highly mutated BA.2.86 subvariant detected in several countries worldwide.

With the rise of COVID-19 cases, the trifecta of preventive measures could portend the first winter of the decade without a crush of patients that is overwhelming some hospitals. However, a healthier winter is somewhat difficult to achieve as only 20% of adults in the US got the COVID-19 vaccine in the past year, said the New York Times.

Related Article: UK Launches Early Winter COVID-19 Vaccine Program Amid Concerns About New Strain

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
State Rep. Charles Doc Anderson, R-Waco, announced Thursday he will not seek reelection to an 11th term next year and will retire when his term ends in January 2025.

In a news release, he said stepping down after 20 years of legislative service will allow him to spend more time with his wife Lyn, whom he married in 2016 after the death of his first wife Sandy in 2015.

Its been a tremendous joy to serve in the Texas House of Representatives through 10 regular legislative sessions and countless special sessions, he said in the release.

While Im extremely proud of my record of service in the Texas House and love representing my McLennan County friends and neighbors, its time for a new chapter in my life and to seek new ways to serve my community, state, and nation.

Andersons news follows an announcement Tuesday by McLennan County businessman Pat Curry that he would run in the Republican primary for the House District 56 seat that Anderson occupies.

In a news release Thursday, Curry acknowledged Andersons longtime service as a state representative.

McLennan County owes a huge debt of gratitude to State Representative Doc Anderson for his years of service to our community, Curry said in a statement. Doc Anderson is a rock-solid conservative, and I hope to follow in his footsteps of delivering conservative results for Texas House District 56. I wish Doc and Lyn all the best, and I know they will continue to be a driving force for good in McLennan County.

Anderson, who is retired as a veterinarian, was first elected to the House District 56 seat in 2004 and has been reelected nine times since then.

The state representative noted the work to be done in his remaining term, from an anticipated special session in October on the issue of passing school choice in addition to his ongoing work as vice chairman on the Agriculture and Livestock Committee, leadership roles in the Texas Legislative Rural Caucus and the House Aerospace Caucus.

Anderson observed that during his seven years of marriage to Lyn, he had served four regular and seven special sessions of the Legislature in addition to the time spent in committee and caucus meetings, district events and travel from Waco to Austin.

Im looking forward to spending the next chapter of my life with Lyn, traveling, and getting to do some of the things serving in the Texas Legislature just wouldnt allow, he said.

Its been (quite) a ride, but we still have a few miles to go. When I do complete my legislative service in 2025, I know I will do so confident in the knowledge that I will have served District 56, McLennan County, and the State of Texas honorably, ably, and always in the best interests of the people of House District 56 and Texas. May God bless Texas, the release concluded.

District 12 Representative Kyle Kacal, R-College Station, worked with Anderson on many McLennan County issues during Kacals first five terms before redistricting put east McLennan County into a new district.

Anderson not only helped Kacal with introductions to the county and state leaders in Kacals early years as a representative  it helped having a fellow Aggie to show him the ropes, Kacal joked  but proved a good colleague on issues of shared concern, such as aid to West in the aftermath of the 2015 fertilizer plant explosion.

Im thankful for his service. Its been an honor to serve with Doc, he said. He was a big help with the West trouble and it was nice to have two representatives working together on issues.

McLennan County Republican Party Chair Brad Holland said the longtime state representative will leave after finishing a praiseworthy time in the House.

Doc has a strong record to be proud of and hes leaving on good terms, on his own terms, he said, adding Anderson combined conservative political values and an affable personality readily identifiable by his cowboy hat and bolo tie.

At a time when many in the public are disdainful of career politicians, Andersons constituents saw him as a beloved veterinarian first with a long time of legislative service, Holland said.

Hes a regular guy and very approachable. You knew what you were getting with Doc, Holland said.

Given that the District 56 represents Waco and with Republicans heading state government in Austin, Holland anticipated there may be several Republican candidates throwing their hats in the ring in upcoming months.

Theres a lot of interest in that seat, he said. I would be very surprised if there were not more (candidates) filing for that seat.
The city of Waco will pay $4.75 million to Limestone County as a host fee for a new municipal landfill that will mostly sit within that countys boundaries.

The Waco City Council and Limestone County commissioners both approved an agreement involving the fee Tuesday. Limestone County Precinct 2 Commissioner Micah Anderson, whose precinct includes the landfill, cast the dissenting vote on the commissioners court.

Limestone County commissioners in 2018 first declared their opposition to the landfill at State Highway 31 and TK Parkway, also known as Farm-to-Market Road 939. The county passed a measure to prohibit new landfills within its boundaries after learning of the city of Wacos plans, Limestone County Judge Richard Duncan said. He said the city kind of underhandedly had lawyers obtain the land for the purpose of filing an application for a landfill permit without disclosing that intent to the county.

The city of Waco owns about 281 acres of land in McLennan County, 191 acres in Hill County and 1,020 acres in Limestone County near the landfill site. Of the landfills total 502-acre footprint, about 66 acres are in McLennan County while 436 acres are in Limestone County, said Kody Petillo, Wacos solid waste director.

Duncan said Limestone County didnt want a landfill and was disappointed in Waco leaders move to build it outside their own county.

But he said the countys move was too little too late, as the city was already engaged in the Texas Commission on Environmental Qualitys permitting process and would be exempt from the new rule.

The county did not request a contested case hearing, the equivalent of an administrative trial, which is reserved for parties who would be more affected by the project than the general public. The last of 10 TCEQ petitions were settled and a permit was issued in May with the city paying more than $1 million to property owners nearby.

Once the permit was issued, Duncan said the countys focus shifted from preventing the landfills existence to figuring out what it could get out of the deal.

With TCEQ agreeing to give them the permit it was almost a done deal, he said.  Were still disappointed in Limestone County that the city would look somewhere beside their own city and county to put their municipal waste  However, I guess we see that we dont have a choice in this world.

Duncan said the county could have gotten a court injunction to stop the process, placing a hold on Wacos effort to move quickly on the site, but the county could have lost in court. The city of Waco is trying to have a new landfill open in early 2025 to coincide with the closure of its current site on Hannah Hill Road, which is rapidly approaching its July 2025 anticipated fill date.

Duncan said that regardless of the TCEQ permit, Waco still has to play by Limestone Countys rules, including meeting its local floodplain development codes. The city paid for high-level engineers from Saxon Loomis to investigate the floodplain issue, eventually determining that the development is safe for the county, he said.

Now, the city will pay the county a host fee based on the estimated tonnage of waste deposited at the landfill and about 57 cents per ton, Assistant City Manager Paul Cain said.

In that discussion with Limestone County, rather than take those payments annually over time they requested that the total payments over time be essentially discounted to a net present value, Cain said. In other words, how much are all those future payments worth today? And thats what we agreed to.

The city has similar agreements with the nonprofit Save Axtell Families and the Environment for Axtell ISD, which receives about 45 cents per ton; and the McLennan and Hill Counties Tehuacana Creek Water Control and Improvement District No. 1, which receives about 8.1 cents per ton. Cain said the fee is a way for the county to make up revenue on the landfills services for its impact on street maintenance, police calls and lost property tax revenue on the citys tax exempt property.

Duncan said the city had offered the county a $7 million payout over 30 years, but it was in the countys best interest to opt for a one-time fee and not worry about the year-over-year tonnage.

And $4.75 million isnt a small potato, quite frankly, he said.

The city has also put aside $1 million to help with the countys legal fees if it is ever sued for a landfill-related issue, Duncan said. Even though the entities were able to reach an agreement, he said Limestone County is not happy with the landfill placement, the nearby residents are not happy, some landowners have sold their property and he hopes the city will be as transparent as possible in the future.

Meanwhile, a project to improve TK Parkway at State Highway 31, including new turn lanes and shoulders, is complete, Petillo said. He is unsure whether TxDOT plans to widen Horse Creek Bridge to the south of the site.

Petillo said the landfills design is about 80% finished, and the city is soliciting bids for the entrance road and some of its interior infrastructure. The landfills construction will go out for bids within the next few months, with work starting in early 2024 and on track for completion in 2025, he said.

The city is also working through TCEQ permitting and design concurrently for a transfer station on top of a closed existing landfill at University Parks Drive and Radle Road, Petillo said.
For members of Austins Congregation Beth Israel, the ner tamid lamp hanging above the ark of the Torah in the congregations temporary worship space now has a deeper meaning as a symbol of Gods presence.

Waco artist Bryant Stanton and his sons fashioned the ner tamid (Hebrew for eternal light) from shards of stained glass panels above sanctuary doors damaged by an arsonists attack two Halloweens ago.

The collaboration between Jewish synagogue and Christian artists have created a light that shines again, but with an additional glow of the congregations burning resolve to continue in the face of anti-Semitism, its colored flames transmitting arts power to heal the heart.

The lamp and a new ark for the Torah scrolls, flanked by panels from the surviving stained glass reset into frames, were installed this week in Congregation Beth Israels transitional worship space on the eve of Rosh Hashanah, a celebration that begins the Jewish New Year on Friday.

The congregations senior Rabbi Steven Folberg explained the ner tamid comes from the instructions in the Biblical book of Leviticus that detail the construction and furnishings for the tabernacle, the portable sanctuary that accompanied Israel after the flight from Egyptian slavery. The lamp, fueled by olive oil, was to be kept perpetually lit in its position before the ark of the covenant.

It symbolizes Gods presence thats always there, he said. And fire is an apt symbol. Everyone knows what a flame looks like, but its not a static thing. It moves. It dances.

The ner tamid was part of a year-long project for Stanton Studios to refurbish or replace some of the furnishings in the congregations synagogue.

For me, its been a healing process, said Laura Corman, a past president of the congregation who has led efforts to repair and recover from the fire. Its such an important symbol for us. Antisemitism will not take Congregation Beth Israel down. Our stained glass shows us we are whole. We are transforming this tragedy into a work of art and beauty.

The fire started the evening of Oct. 31, 2021, when a young man poured a flammable liquid on the temples oversized exterior sanctuary doors and ignited it. A passerby noticed the smoke and called 9-1-1. Austin firefighters arrived in time to keep the fire from spreading into the sanctuary interior. The doors were heavily damaged as well as the bottom panels of a stained glass window above the doors.

The interior suffered some smoke damage, but the congregations Torah scrolls, including one from Czechoslovakia that had survived the Holocaust, were spared. Other buildings near the synagogue, including an unmarked one that serves as Beth Israels preschool were untouched.

Folberg said the intentional fire had followed a series of unsettling incidents in Austin, including antisemitic and racist graffiti at Anderson High School in an area with Jewish families, followed by a neo-Nazi group unfurling an antisemitic banner near a highway exit that many attending activities at the Jewish Community Center would pass.

It was the first such attack suffered by Austins oldest Jewish congregation, founded in 1876, and it was a gut punch, said the senior rabbi, who has been with the congregation for 32 years.

A 20-year-old Texas State University student named Franklin Sechriest was arrested for setting the fire, based in part on security camera footage that captured him and his vehicle, and he was charged with arson and a hate crime. The student has pleaded guilty and will be sentenced Nov. 29. To this day, Corman refuses to speak his name. He doesnt deserve it, she said.

Architect Ben Heimsath, head of Austin-based Heimsath Architects, worked with synagogue leaders in the fires aftermath, assessing the damage and determining what the next step should be. The structure was built in 1967, a time when security was not as pressing a concern as today, he noted, and merely repairing fire damage wouldnt address those issues.

Heimsath advised the congregation to prepare a transitional space for worship and buy time to discuss and make long-range plans for the congregations future home. Offers to help poured in, from fellow Jewish congregations and groups to Austin citizens and churches wanting to support Beth Israel. St. Matthew Episcopal Church offered space for Beth Israel members to worship in the interim and outside financial contributions provided assistance in the congregations plan to renovate its Smith Auditorium as its transitional worship space.

Heimsath also connected the congregation to Bryant Stanton and his Stanton Studios to evaluate the damaged stained glass panels and recommend what action to take. The recommendation was personal: Stanton had handled the stained glass work for a renovation project Heimsath had done at Austins First United Methodist Church.

Stanton had some bad news: While the upper panels could be cleaned of soot and restored, the bottom ones couldnt be salvaged. Some of the panels thick dalle de verre glass, what Stanton calls chunk glass, had crumbled under the high temperatures and other parts were weakened. He advised the congregation they should remove the panels above the burnt doors and store them rather than clean and repair them in place.

In the discussions that followed on what to do with the stained glass in the move to the new worship space, Bryant suggested creating something from the damaged glass, an idea that eventually turned into a new ner tamid and panels next to the ark of the Torah.

Stanton Studios not only designed and created a new lamp, but a new ark, reading table and lectern, too, crafted from walnut by Stantons woodworking son, Nathan Stanton, to match the synagogues 1960s mid-century modern interior. Bryants son Jordan worked with him on designed, while son Samuel and the studios Aaron Haas did the stained glass construction.

Bryants idea for the ner tamid involved crafting glass tongues of flame above a bed of crushed glass from the damaged windows in the bowl of the lamp. Colored glass saved from the windows was melted and fused to the flames to add color.

Stanton Studios frequently works with churches on cleaning, restoring and rebuilding windows that play an important part in their members worship, connecting symbolic reminders of ancient tradition to contemporary contemplation. Bryant sees contemporary churches are often designed and built as multimedia spaces with an emphasis on worship sights and sounds at the expense of seeing faith through history and tradition.

In the case of Congregation Beth Israel, he saw an opportunity to infuse additional meaning to a symbol of worship that had continued for millennia. This is a synagogue holding on to tradition as a way of comfort and a way of healing, he said.

In the Stanton piece, colored glass flames are attached to an acrylic plate in the lamp bowl, which is suspended from the ceiling in front of the ark of the Torah. Each flame took 24 hours to make, starting with cutting a shape from clear glass, melting it in a kiln and shaping, then fusing the colored glass into the shape. The finished flames were then arranged in concentric circles in the three-foot wide base plate.

Stanton Studios worked on the various parts of the Congregation Beth Israel project for much of 2023. In the process, artists and congregants formed relationships and, Corman said, became family. Their entire family became Beth Israels family, she said. I could not love them more.

Rosh Hashanah, a celebration that begins the Jewish New Year on Friday, will be the first time for some congregants to see the new ner tamid, the ark of the Torah and the reading tables in their places.

Nearly two years ago, the congregation was preparing to meet in person for worship for the first time after a break due to COVID-19 when the fire happened days before that Shabbat service. The time since then and the transitions involved have made in-person meetings and worshipping all the more precious, said Folberg.

People are excited about being back here, he said. Literally and metaphorically, it (the new ter tamid) is responding to a lot of ugliness with a lot of beauty.

The congregations rabbi recalled a story from rabbinical tradition in which the question was asked about what happened to the tablets containing the Law that Moses shattered when he found Israel worshipping a golden calf. Those broken parts that had held Gods word, the story goes, were collected and placed next to the whole tablets in the Ark of the Covenant.

In life there is both wholeness and brokenness, he said.
A decade after the Supreme Court sharply limited the sway of the Voting Rights Act, the landmark law is enjoying something of a renaissance.

When the court in 2013 ruled unconstitutional the laws provisions requiring Justice Department preclearance of voting law changes, many states like Texas rushed to implement new laws that critics called discriminatory, realizing the federal courts would no longer block them.

But due in part to another, quite different high court ruling last year, judges in several states are invoking another section of the 1965 law to reject Southern Republican gerrymandering aimed at limiting the number of Black Democratic U.S. House members.

Decisions or pending court cases in at least five states  Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and South Carolina  challenge U.S. House district lines enacted by Republican legislatures as racially discriminatory. With Republicans holding only a five-seat House majority, rulings there could significantly impact the 2024 election results.

Of course, potential actions in other states may also affect the situation. Republicans hope their recent takeover of the North Carolina Supreme Court will result in a new map that could net them up to three seats. On the other hand, a New York judge is reviewing that states court-ordered redistricting plan that helped the GOP gain three seats in 2022.

Interestingly, the current situation was triggered by the same chief justice, John Roberts, whose doubts about the Voting Rights Act  dating back to his days as a young Justice Department attorney  climaxed with his writing the 2013 ruling.

But last year, to the surprise of most court analysts, Roberts joined with a fellow conservative, Justice Brett Kavanaugh, and the three liberal justices to rule that the Alabama legislature violated the Voting Rights Act by refusing to draw a second House district in which Black residents, who comprise 27% of its population, had the opportunity to elect a representative of their choice. Alabama has seven House districts.

The courts ruling remains mired in the courts, thanks to the Alabama legislatures refusal to implement it. But it is likely to trigger a similar decision in a Louisiana case that argues a second of its six districts should have been drawn to make minority representation possible in the one-third Black state.

In Georgia, meanwhile, a federal court is hearing a case brought by Black voters and civil rights groups who argue the 30% Black state should have an additional Black-majority House district as well as more state Senate and state House districts.

Currently, four of Georgias 14 House districts are majority minority, all represented by Black Democrats. A fifth Black Democrat, Rep. Lucy McBath, represents a racially mixed Atlanta area district. After the 2020 census, the Republican legislature put two Black Democrats, McBath and Rep. Carolyn Bourdeaux, into the same district, and McBath won the subsequent primary between them.

In Florida, a state judge ruled recently that the GOP-controlled legislature violated the state constitution by eliminating the north Florida district represented by Black Democrat Al Lawson. In 2010, voters passed what was known as the Fair Districts amendment, which barred drawing districts that would diminish the ability of minorities to elect representatives of their choice.

The case will likely wind up before the states Supreme Court, five of whose seven judges were picked by conservative GOP Gov. Ron DeSantis, currently seeking the 2024 Republican presidential nomination.

A South Carolina case pending before the U.S. Supreme Court challenges the legislatures decision to move a substantial number of Black voters from the more competitive district, now represented by Republican Nancy Mace, to a 50% Black district, represented by Rep. James Clyburn.

A lower federal court, consisting of three Democratic appointees, ruled it was a stark racial gerrymander that illegally used race to determine the makeup of the district.

In Texas, pending lawsuits note that, although most of the states population growth was among its communities of color, the Republican legislature added two predominantly white districts. Nearly half of the population growth was Hispanic, but the legislature did not create any new opportunities for electing more Hispanics. Eleven of the 13 Democratic representatives are either Hispanic (6) or Black (5), as are three Republicans.

(There is a certain historic irony in the Texas situation. In 1991, when Democrats still controlled the legislature, they succeeded in both creating three new majority-minority districts while leaving enough Blacks and Hispanics in the districts of three white Democrats to help them win reelection. More recently, their focus has been on creating districts designed to make possible the election of more Black and Hispanic members.)

Court decisions upholding and implementing all of the pending cases in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and South Carolina could result in the election of five more Black Democrats to the House.

That would constitute something of a political grand slam and, in any case, Democratic one-seat gains in each of these Southern states might be offset by larger swings in North Carolina or New York.

In any case, last years Supreme Court decision has had the practical effect of moderating the negative impact of the 2013 verdict, restoring the Voting Rights Act as an effective vehicle for Blacks and Democrats to challenge Republican efforts to limit their numbers.
WATERLOO  A Waterloo man admitted he threw the initial punch in a fight outside a downtown bar in November 2020.

I swung first, Joseph Ayala told jurors.

But Ayala, 41, said he was on the ground and getting pummeled when another person began shooting him.

Prosecutors said Will Earnest Young Jr. opened fire on Ayala as Youngs brother, Willis Brown, was punching him.

Young, 31, of Cedar Falls, is charged with willful injury causing serious injury and intimidation with a weapon in the Nov. 8, 2020, fight outside The Saloon on West Fourth Street.

Youngs attorney said he acted in self-defense.

Ayala, a former amateur mixed martial arts fighter who runs his own painting company, took the stand Wednesday during the second day of testimony in Youngs trial.

During cross-examination, defense attorney Maurice Spencer questioned Ayala about his 11-4 fight record, reading off a list of knockouts, arm bars and decisions where referees stepped in to end the matches.

Ayala said he quit his fighting career about eight years before the shooting.

According to testimony, Ayala and a friend had been drinking in The Saloon when Youngs brother became upset with something Ayala said.

The bartender said she kicked them out of the bar, fearing trouble ahead.

Ayala said as he exited, two people  identified as Young and Brown  exchanged words with him. He walked up to them, and he said he felt they were getting aggressive and about to jump him.

I felt like I was in danger, so I swung, Ayala said.

After Ayala hit Young in the face, Brown engaged Ayala, taking him to the ground and hitting him. The bullets fired by Young hit Ayalas thigh and hip.

He said the rounds struck an artery, requiring surgery. He was in the hospital for almost two weeks and couldnt walk for a month. To this day, he still notices pains in his leg on a weekly basis, he said.

Jurors also watched videos from Fourth Street businesses showing a brief scuffle around 1:38 a.m.

Waterloo Police Detective Kyle Jurgensen estimated Ayala was about 8 to 10 feet away from Young and tangled up with Brown when the shots were fired. There were also people across the street, downrange.

The officer characterized the shooting as very reckless.

He also noted that neither Young nor Brown called 911 or tried to make contact with police following the shooting. They left the area and it was up to police to piece together who was involved by tracing a vehicle leaving the area to the Youngs home.

Young had a laceration above his eye from the fight, and no injuries were observed on Brown, Jurgensen said.

Police also admitted Ayala hadnt been charged for punching Young because of the seriousness of his injuries.

Testimony in the case will continue on Thursday.
CEDAR FALLS  The Board of Education has been weighing three general options for the future of its current high school once its vacated and students move to a newly constructed building on West 27th Street in 2024, Superintendent Andy Pattee revealed this week.

At a Cedar Falls Community Schools Board of Education meeting, he said they include selling the building; demolishing the building on its own for an estimated $1.1 million and selling the 17 acres most likely for residential development; or repurposing about two thirds of the building for millions of dollars.

When questioned after the meeting, Pattee would not rule out any general or specific possibilities  including whether administration offices could relocate to a portion from its current home at 1002 W. First St.  for the current high school on Division Street.

Original sections of the building date back to the 1950s, according to Courier archives. He says discussions continue with various stakeholders and he does not expect any final decisions to be made until next year.

Multiple discussions will be unfolding to determine next steps. We plan to do whats ultimately most fiscally responsible and what meets the wants and needs of the community, said Pattee.

The districts head pointed out during a presentation that the repurposing option would be expensive. Thats partially because the building is comprised of 13 additions.

Those costs would primarily be updates to the HVAC system, walls and roofs costing millions of dollars. The west three stories would have to be demolished because of their condition, he said.

In other news related to its future high school, the board set a Nov. 13 hearing for its bidded out plans of at least a few thousand pieces of furniture. The original budget was set at $3 million.

Americans still love buying trucks, even as gas prices rise Americans still love buying trucks, even as gas prices rise Automakers sold more trucks than cars in May Gas prices drop but remain elevated Why Americans are choosing trucks
CEDAR FALLS  Each year, the University of Northern Iowa observes Constitution Day to commemorate the signing of the Constitution in 1787.

The lecture for this year will be from Diana Hess, the dean of the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The lecture is titled The Challenges of Teaching for Democracy in Polarized Times.

She is the principal investigator for The Discussion Project at the universitys Wisconsin Center for Education Research. As dean of the UW-Madisons School of Education and faculty member in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, she is committed to working with teachers to improve the quality of democratic education in schools.

Since 1997, she has been researching how teachers engage their students in discussions of highly controversial political and constitutional issues and what impact this approach to civic education has on what young people learn. She has written multiple books that have received awards.

The lecture will be at 5 p.m. on Monday in Lang Hall Auditorium on the UNI campus.
WATERLOO  With a shortage of nearly two dozen special education teachers, the Waterloo Community School District is looking at creative ways to fill gaps in order to provide students with the education they need.

Director of Special Education Megan Allen said there are 22 openings for special education teachers from Pre-K to 12th grade. About half of those openings are in the three high schools.

We have one middle school in pretty rough shape and then in elementary we have a sprinkling of vacancies but not anything like high school, Allen said. High school is definitely the worst.

This isnt just a Waterloo problem, according to Amy Knupp, the executive director of special education for Central Rivers Area Education Agency. The AEA oversees 53 school districts and, with Waterloo being the largest, Knupp said that is one of the reasons for the higher number of vacancies. There are just over 10,000 students in the district.

Knupp said, with the shortage, she thinks Waterloo School has a laser focus on providing students with the education they need.

I would not say kids are not getting what they need at all, she said. (The district is) always talking about it and figuring out how to help meet all kids needs.

Allen said the number of students in special education classes are higher than they were before COVID-19. She also said childrens needs are much more complex, with an increase in social and behavioral needs.

Some of these behaviors include faster escalation and heightened emotions like extreme frustration. Other kids have issues with self control and being able to problem solve.

Teaching children with behavioral issues can lead to teacher burnout quicker than teaching children with academic concerns, Allen said. Along with teaching children with more complex issues, class sizes are also growing.

Allen said the ideal classroom size is three to four students in an elementary class and six to eight students in middle and high school classes. She said in some cases, elementary classes now have five to six students and middle and high schools have eight to 10 students.

Vanessa Slight, a special education teacher at Hoover Middle School, said she has six students in her class this year and hasnt experienced any burnout yet.

The first part of the school year, you always hit the ground running, Slight said. This year feels like were running just a little bit faster to keep caught up.

Both Knupp and Allen said they are seeing increases in the number of younger students  such as preschool and kindergarten  needing individual education plans. They blame that on the pandemic.

Children entering those grades would have been babies and toddlers when COVID-19 hit the U.S. in early 2020. With limited or no access to daycares due to safety concerns, or with parents being able to work from home, many of these children didnt have much exposure to other children, or any other people for that matter.

When kids show up for kindergarten, they have no awareness, Allen said about the students starting school this year. Its kind of like some people are still quarantining. Not necessarily quarantine but like, just really comfortable at home.

Knupp said the AEA also didnt have access to children entering their first years of school due to students staying home and learning virtually.

We didnt have the ability to put interventions in place, Knupp said. We did the best we could but virtually its a little hard for kids in that age group to pay attention.

Allen said shes also seeing this issue in grades where children developed and changed during the pandemic, such as the period between middle school and high school.

If I were to look at a population of eighth graders right now and think, like, What the hecks going on? I would reflect and say, Oh, they missed all of the end of their fifth grade year, she explained.

She, along with Knupp, said the district and the AEA are doing what they can to bring more help into the special education classrooms.

You cant match a teacher, Knupp said. But I think Waterloo does a good job at looking at all programs creatively and figuring out what the needs are and getting down to addressing those particular needs.

One creative way to gain more educators, Allen said, is utilizing the University of Northern Iowa. She said theyre recruiting education students for their pre-service training.

With the program, the district is taking these students and allowing them to be paid part-time paraeducators. Allen said the position will give these students real experience in a special education classroom. In turn, she hopes this will help students deal with future burnout, saying that she hears young teachers say they experience burnout because they didnt have enough real-world experience while in school.

She said with a students practicum, they would come into a building for an hour and work with a small group of kids.

Typically, we pick the kids that are going to cooperate  so that the teacher can learn how to be a teacher, she said. We arent picking the kiddos that might be put on their roster when they do get a real job.

She said this in turn will create super qualified teachers.

Other ways to work around the shortage is by putting more children in classrooms with teachers who have more seniority and in turn giving those teachers more planning time. That planning time would be used to file paperwork and contact students families.

Allen is hoping the district can help support paraeducators already in their district obtain their special education degree. She said about 75% of paraeducators work in special education classrooms.

We have, in every school, amazing people that care for kids and theyre so good at their job, she said. So I think we could really do a better job of growing our own  because we have a lot of people already in-house that we could help in their journey to become a teacher.

The district is also looking at teachers who have special education degrees but work in general education positions.

As for the current special education teachers, Allen said there are a lot of ideas to provide incentives for them but havent found the right solution, yet.

As schools rely on tutoring to rebound from learning loss, finding tutors proves difficult As schools rely on tutoring to rebound from learning loss, finding tutors proves difficult Challenges facing schools
China issued its first public statement regarding claims that the government is prohibiting the use of Apple's iPhones by select state officials. It said that Beijing had highlighted what it claimed to be security concerns about the gadget, The New York Times reported.

Alleged iPhone Ban in Local Offices

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, provided only general information in her remarks during a briefing in Beijing. She referred to media reports concerning iPhone security issues without providing any more context.

According to CNBC, Ning added that iPhones and other foreign-made handsets were not banned. "China has not issued any laws, regulations or policy documents prohibiting the purchase and use of mobile phones from foreign brands such as Apple," she said on Wednesday, September 13.

The statements follow reports that certain local offices have been instructed to refrain from using iPhones. There have also been online reports of notices delivered to government workers and state-owned firms encouraging them to switch to domestically made mobile brands. Despite China's notoriously stringent internet censorship, reports of this ban have not been removed.

Following the rumors, Apple shares initially plummeted because investors worried that the company would lose its position in China, the biggest smartphone market in the world.

See Also: China's New iPhone Restrictions Drive Apple Shares to Drop, Hurting Tech Industry

Requiring Officials to Avoid Foreign Tech

It is not new to demand that government workers be restricted from using foreign technologies.

Officials in China have been discouraged from using foreign smartphones. Government agencies have been instructed to replace American computer servers and other gadgets with Chinese ones for at least a decade.

The United States has restricted Huawei, a Chinese telecoms giant, and set limitations on shipments of sophisticated US semiconductor technology to China. TikTok, a popular social media app, has been the target of efforts to limit its usage by government workers in certain regions in the US.

Even still, if Apple ran into serious trouble in China, it would be an indication that tensions between Beijing and Washington were rising. About 20% of sales and most production for the American tech giant take place in China, sustaining hundreds of thousands of employees there.

The release of Huawei's Mate 60 Pro last week marked the latest strike in the ongoing US-China tech conflict, with smartphones serving as a particularly salient target. Chinese nationalists hailed Huawei phone's sophisticated features as proof that China had created its own processors, but it is now under investigation in the US to see whether it goes against the ban on the US semiconductor technology imposed by the Biden administration.

See Also: China Bans iPhones in Government Offices as Conflicts With US Increase

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The United States has agreed to the transfer of $6 billion in frozen assets to Iran and the release five Iranians as part of a prisoner swap the will bring five American captives home.

Republicans and some Democrats in Congress have criticized the Biden administration initiative, saying it encourages the Iranian regime to jail more Americans.

Groups like the Bring Our Families Home Campaign, which is involved in ongoing work to return captives to American soil, emphasize how each hostage situation is different rather than focusing on the politics.

We need to do everything we can to get American hostages home. Unfortunately, I think a lot of people will overly politicize the issue, said artist Isaac Campbell, a University of Northern Iowa graduate who played a key role in creating large murals advocating for captives return.

I think the mistake people make when they politicize this issue is that they risk turning these American citizens and these human beings into a policy issue and forgetting that theyre people. At the end of the day, these people are fathers. Theyre husbands. Theyre uncles. Theyre real people.

But the Biden administrations diplomatic efforts face criticism as the 2024 race for the presidency heats up.

Republican presidential candidate and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum issued a statement Monday criticizing President Joe Biden.

The United States government should do everything possible to bring American hostages home except pay massive ransoms, which only ensures more hostage taking in the future by countries like Iran, Russia and potentially China, Burgum said.

The White House pushed back on such criticism.

This isnt a payment of any kind. These arent U.S. dollars. They arent taxpayer dollars. They are Iranian dollars the previous administration allowed them to make, National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said in a statement to NBC News.

The controversy serves as a reminder of hostages held overseas and the public displays of the emotion they evoke.

In collaboration with Campbell, the Bring Our Families Home Campaign created a pair of wheat paste murals in hopes of raising awareness of the issue. That first one, 150 feet long and 15 feet high, was constructed in Washington, D.C., and unveiled July 20, 2022. Paul Rusesabagina was one of the many life-sized faces depicted.

Wheat paste is not a permanent material. Time and the elements cause pieces of the murals to fade, states the campaign website. This is intentional, to serve as a reminder that over time our loved ones are deteriorating both mentally and physically, underscoring the need for our president to use all tools to bring them home.

Rusesabagina, a dual Rwandan and Belgian human rights activist, was the focus of the 2004 film Hotel Rwanda. In 2020, he was kidnapped, taken to Kigali, Rwanda, and arrested on what supporters called trumped-up charges of terrorism. He was sentenced to 25 years in prison but his sentence was commuted this year amid international outcry.

In my opinion, if they had never created the movie Hotel Rwanda, then Americans would have had no idea who this guy Paul Rusesabagina was, said Brian Warby, a University of Northern Iowa political science professor.

He wasnt a political figure. He wasnt a military general. He wasnt involved directly with any violence. Its because the story was told from his perspective. Without that, I dont think Americans would have ever known who he was or cared that he was later thrown in prison.

But Rwanda and Iran are very different countries, Warby noted.

In those cases where the country in question is trying to build a positive relationship and are somewhat dependent on the U.S. for foreign aid or economic assistance of some sort, then I think that opens the door for a public pressure campaign. But thats definitely not the case with North Korea or Iran, he said.

Eighteen faces were on the wall. About half have come home.

You could do something like what Isaac did, said Warby, but that specific case is also unique because Rwanda is trying so desperately hard to ingratiate itself with Western countries, and I think Rwanda was uniquely susceptible to a public pressure campaign.

Another difference is that 20 years ago Americans were often detained by terrorists. The situation was complicated by the United States longstanding policy of not negotiating with terrorists, although some presidents have ignored that directive.

Warby estimates more than 95% of American hostages are held in Russia, China, Iran, or North Korea  countries we might call pariah states. Most commonly they face allegations of spying.

The biggest challenge, especially with Russia and China, is we want to maintain some sort of diplomatic relationship, so we dont want to push too hard and say you guys are a bunch of bullies and bad guys, said Warby.

Campbell, an Ottumwa native, recently collaborated with the Bring Our Families Home Campaign on a second mural, unveiled July 4 in Houston, depicting many of the hostages.

New outlets suggest as many as 50-60 hostages are being held overseas. Campbell said those who have returned to America have often taken on a role in the fight after this really horrible experience, and actually want to use more of their time to help contribute to solving this problem.

Campbell said his team is still determining its next step.

After Houston and the anniversary of the D.C. mural, everybodys regrouping to figure out what were going to do next. Its an honor to lend my skills and help these families work to bring their loved ones home, said Campbell.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.
This rare view of the old Mauston Brewery building at the corner of Morris and Windsor Streets was part of a series of postcards produced in 1922 showing downed trees around Mauston after an ice storm on Feb. 22, 1922.

The original part of the Mauston Brewery building had a long history in this area. German immigrant Henry Runkel constructed it as a brewery in 1858, in the now disbanded village of Germantown. Germantown, now mostly under Castle Rock Lake, was located about nine miles north of town on the Wisconsin River.

According to former local historian Merton Eberlein, 1902-1996, the building was next moved to Windsor Street in 1868, when Runkel moved his brewery operation here. The building was set atop a large cellar structure Runkel had dug into the hillside. A larger icehouse and granary storage were added in 1879, and there was a series of new owners after 1888. When bottling came into vogue, a bottling room was added in 1901.

Eberlein grew up next door to the brewery. As a young teen he was employed washing empty beer bottles. Joseph Vogl, the last brewery owner, went bankrupt in 1916. After that Eberlein and his father were hired to dispose of the leftover beer in the cellar. They uncorked the wooden barrels and poured the beer down a drain, which exited downhill in the Lemonweir River.

The Hussa Brewing Company of Bangor, bought the vacant brewery building in 1918, and turned it into a pickle factory. The Hussas had turned to canning produce just before the start of Prohibition. They put up a large processing building just behind the original brewery structure and for the next few years ran quite a successful operation.

So, at the time this photo was taken the business was a pickle factory. Examining the photo closely, a second floor opening gives evidence the building was in a state of disrepair. Later in the year, on Oct. 23, 1922, a spectacular fire consumed the entire Hussa plant. It was reported to have been one of the worst fires Mauston had seen in years and many nearby homes were in peril.

The lot sat empty until 1928, when James Samuel Sam Hess Jr. bought the property. He was the son of Mauston hospital founder J. S. Hess Sr. Sam Hess Jr. commissioned the brick bungalow to be built on the foundation that still stands today. He retained the old underground aging cellars making it one of the most unique homes in the city. As in most communities with an early brewery, the cellars led to tall tales of tunnels running under streets connecting neighborhood homes. Eberlein completely debunked those myths in a 1981 Juneau County Star-Times article.

The only other known brewery photo comes from a 1911 city business profile when the business was producing beer. A classic shot with a horse-drawn wagon full of beer barrels posed out front. This postcard is a somewhat later photo but it is still an important addition to the almost forgotten history of the Mauston Brewery. There is a softbound history booklet titled, The History of the Mauston Brewery 18581916 by this writer available for checkout at the Hatch Library.
The Baraboo Police Department is working to assist residents who have special needs in the community with a new sticker program.

Households with occupants who have autism, are hearing impaired, or are physically disabled, can receive stickers to be placed near the entrance of a home indicating that someone with special needs resides there.

The stickers are free.

To receive them, forms can be filled out online  at baraboowipd.seamlessdocs.com/f/autismalert  or in person at the Baraboo Police Department, 101 South Blvd., or the Sauk County Sheriffs Office, 1300 Lange Court.

This program assists first responders by providing advanced information so that they know what theyre going into, said Baraboo police Capt. Ryan La Broscian. With the information provided, first responders can pre-plan how best to help an individual with special needs.

When obtaining the free stickers, the caregiver is encouraged to fill out a form that indicates the special needs, medical conditions, triggers, or other information that may work to best accommodate the individual.

La Broscian offered an example. If an autistic child is non-verbal, or will run when approached, responders will have this information ahead of time, preventing unnecessary confusion or trauma, and will improve the relationship between that individual and the first responders.

The program began coming to fruition in the spring when the Baraboo Police Departments two school resource officers, Amanda Sabol and Brendon Meyer, attended a crisis intervention training at Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids.

There they learned of a similar program that was implemented by the Marshfield Police Department. Marshfield resident Harry Dolan, whose son has autism, gave autism awareness presentations to the police department and other local organizations. The idea took hold.

Sabol and Meyer brought the idea back to Baraboo and, through the help of the Baraboo Community Heroes organizations, made the program a reality.

The program is really beneficial for the community, Amanda Sabol said. It builds positive relationships to those with autism or a disability such as hearing loss.

As school resource officers, Sabol and Meyer see firsthand a childs needs, triggers and communication style.

The sticker program also allows dispatch to have contact information for the persons caregivers in case the caregiver currently with them has an emergency and cannot care for them, Sabol said.

Filing out the form is not mandatory to receive the stickers but it is highly recommended. Each residence may receive two free stickers. The police department will accept financial donations for the program to offset the printing cost but it is not necessary.

Sabol said, Programs like this really help build positive, effective communication within the whole community.

GALLERY: Respect for Law Day event honors law enforcement in Sauk, Columbia counties
We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

Go to form
A Tennessee teen's flu-like symptoms led to amputations of his feet and hands. His family had to make the difficult decision after the teenager was infected by a rare bacterial infection.

Tennessee: Flu-Like Symptoms Lead To Teen's Amputations

According to Fox News' latest report, 14-year-old Mathias Uribe started developing flu-like symptoms around mid-June.

Before experiencing the symptoms, the teenager visited a doctor twice for the needed treatment. On June 30, his family transferred him to an emergency room after his heart stopped.

Mathias also went into cardiac arrest, as confirmed by his family.

"He needed life-saving support and was flown to two different hospitals. He was diagnosed with pneumonia and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome," said the teenager's family.

When the kid was transferred to the Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville Tennessee, he was put on life support.

On July 12, the teenager showed signs of lungs and heart improvement, allowing his doctors to remove him from life support.

Unfortunately, doctors explained that Mathias' extremities were not able to receive enough blood flow despite saving his organs.

Because of this, they were left with no option but to amputate his legs and hands. On Aug. 1, the hospital conducted the needed amputations.

The hospital amputated Mathias' right leg below the knee, left leg above the knee, as well as both of his hands above wrists.

Vanderbilt University Medical Center's Dr. Katie Boyle said that her medical team tried the best they could to save as much of the teen's limbs.

All these happened because of this rare, but serious bacterial infection.

Read Also: COVID Booster: CDC Recommends New Vaccine for Nearly All Americans Over 6 Months as Cases, Hospitalizations Rise

What is This Rare Bacterial Infection?

The Uribe family confirmed that their beloved son was infected by STSS (Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome). On its official website, CDC described it as a "rare, but serious bacterial infection."

Health experts said that STSS can sometimes infect people by entering their skin openings, such as injuries and surgical wounds.

They added that the bacterial infection can also enter the body through mucus membranes. These include interior nose and throat skins.

STSS is caused by the bacteria called "group A strep" (A Streptococcus). CDC explained that the actual STSS infection is not contagious.

However, the bacteria that causes it can spread quickly to other people. To avoid contracting this rare bacterial infection, here's what you can do:

Take antibiotics, if prescribed

Clean and care for wounds

Wash your hands often

Related Article: New Zealand: Surgical Tool Discovered in Woman's Stomach 18 Months After Cesarean Operation

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Ten minutes before the doors opened the morning of Sept. 13, over 200 were waiting in line, and some came as early as 2 a.m. to get a spot near the front.
The District Attorney's Office says that since it is a murder charge, he will be charged as an adult.
COVID-19 protections lagging

The recent increases in cases and deaths track with similar surges in past years of the pandemic, says AARPs Ari Houser, a senior methods adviser and coauthor of the analysis. In the last three years, nursing homes have seen a winter peak in COVID-19 impacts, but also a late summer or fall spike in August or September. This seasonal pattern that we have observed during the last three years appears to be occurring again, he says.

This time around, death rates appear to be lower than those reported at this time during past years: During four-week periods from late July to late August in 2021 and 2022, roughly 1,000 monthly deaths were reported. AARPs recent count is roughly a third of that. But Houser warns that this figure is likely a more severe undercount than usual, due to nursing homes lagging in submitting their COVID-19 data to the government. Also, the recent surges are not done yet, and there is every reason to also expect a larger wave in the winter, he says.



Family Caregiving Lifeline Medical Alert Service 15% off medical alert service plus free shipping and activation View Details See All See more Family Caregiving offers > {"hideCategory":false,"useAlternateLanguage":false,"headlineIconAltText":"","listItems":[{"categoryTitle":"Family Caregiving","categoryUrl":"/membership/benefits/caregiving/","categoryDeeplinkParam":"caregiving","isLimitedTimeOffer":false,"offerJson":{"dbr_offer_id":"b8966e8a4b7461743d6dc8b6889c2f59","source_name":"Lifeline Medical Alert Service","offer_title":"15% Off Medical Alert Service","offer_description":"\u003cp\u003eMembers save 15% on medical alert service and get free shipping and activation. You can select the service option that fits your lifestyle and get fast, 24/7/365 access to help when you need it.\u003c/p\u003e","offer_short_description":"15% off medical alert service plus free shipping and activation","category_list":"caregiving","subcategory_list":"","tags":[{"tagID":"dbr:caregiving","title":"Family Caregiving","name":"caregiving","deeplink_url":"/membership/benefits/caregiving/","deeplink_param_value":"caregiving","get_offers_url":"/etc/aarp/dbr/ws.api/offers/caregiving.json","sub_tags":[]}],"vertical_image_url":"/content/dam/aarp/benefits_discounts/providers/philips-lifeline/258x334-grandfather-playing-video-game-w-grandson.jpg","image_url":"/content/dam/aarp/benefits_discounts/providers/philips-lifeline/1140x641-grandfather-playing-video-game-w-grandson.jpg","advertisement_flag":"","advertisement_sort_order":"","merchant_phone":"1-855-345-0130","merchant_phone_label":"or, call Lifeline at","howto_redeem":"Learn More","howto_redeem_url":"https://www.lifeline.com/aarp-member-benefit/?promotion_id\u003dWA_AARP_0001\u0026utm_campaign\u003dWA_AARP_0001\u0026utm_medium\u003daffiliates\u0026utm_source\u003daarp","howto_redeem_expired":"Renew to Learn More","howto_redeem_expired_link":"https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew","howto_redeem_non_member":"Join to Learn More","howto_redeem_non_member_link":"https://secure.aarp.org/applications/membershipChallenge/showChallengeForm.action?appName\u003daccount","howto_redeem_anonymous":"Join to Learn More","howto_redeem_anonymous_link":"https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid\u003dUASMBP1\u0026intcmp\u003dEWHERE-MBCHAE-LP-MMA-JOIN","howto_redeem_desc":"This offer is available online and by phone. Mention your AARP membership number when calling Lifeline. ","member_exclusive_flag":"no","offer_type":"EverGreen","hideLeavingAARP":"false","interstitial_desc":"You\u0027ll leave AARP.org and go to the website of a trusted provider. The provider\u0027s terms, conditions, and policies apply.","dbr_offer_type":"discount","restrictions":"\u003cp\u003eAARP commercial member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e2022 All rights reserved. Button signal range may vary due to environmental factors.* Offer valid for AARP members only. For new customers, 15% discount is based on the medical alert service option pricing published on \u003ca data-overlay-msg\u003d\"AARP.Everywhere.LeavingModal.drawOverlay(this,\u0027\u0027,/mnt/overlay/wcm/core/content/sites/properties.html,\u0027\u0027,\u0027You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.\u0027);return false;\" data-default-element-msg\u003d\"AARP.Everywhere.LeavingModal.drawOverlay(this,\u0027\u0027,/mnt/overlay/wcm/core/content/sites/properties.html,\u0027\u0027,\u0027You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.\u0027);return false;\" data-displayoverlay\u003d\"displayOverlay\" title\u003d\"Lifeline Website\" rel\u003d\"noreferrer\" href\u003d\"https://www.lifeline.com/\" target\u003d\"_blank\"\u003ewww.lifeline.com\u003c/a\u003e. For existing customers, 15% discount is applied to the current monthly medical alert service price published on \u003ca data-overlay-msg\u003d\"AARP.Everywhere.LeavingModal.drawOverlay(this,\u0027\u0027,/mnt/overlay/wcm/core/content/sites/properties.html,\u0027\u0027,\u0027You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.\u0027);return false;\" data-default-element-msg\u003d\"AARP.Everywhere.LeavingModal.drawOverlay(this,\u0027\u0027,/mnt/overlay/wcm/core/content/sites/properties.html,\u0027\u0027,\u0027You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.\u0027);return false;\" data-displayoverlay\u003d\"displayOverlay\" title\u003d\"Lifeline Website\" rel\u003d\"noreferrer\" href\u003d\"https://www.lifeline.com/\" target\u003d\"_blank\"\u003ewww.lifeline.com\u003c/a\u003e and is not retroactive. Not to be combined with any other offer and subject to change without notice. Monthly fees and applicable taxes apply. Other fees may apply. Minimum stay on service may be required.\u003c/p\u003e","lto_daysleft_start_control":30,"is_redeemable_in_person":"false","is_redeemable_only_in_person":false,"state_blacklist":[],"offer_timing":"anytime","line_of_business":"ASI discounts","asi_category":"ASI Shopping","analytics_brand":"Philips Lifeline | Lifeline Medical Alert Service","analytics_offerid":"lifeline-medical-alert-service","howto_redeem_already_registered_anon":"Member Log In","howto_redeem_already_registered_anon_link":"https://login.aarp.org/online-community/loginform.action","howto_redeem_already_registered_nonmember":"Link your membership","howto_redeem_already_registered_nonmember_link":"https://secure.aarp.org/applications/membershipChallenge/showChallengeForm.action?appName\u003daccount","offer_keywords":["lifeline ","aarp benefits"," aarp discounts","medical alert discounts"],"offer_keywords_spanish":["lifeline","ahorros en lifeline","servicio de alerta medica","servicios de cuidado a largo plazo","servicios medicos","ayuda medica","descuentos en tecnologia para el hogar"],"provider_logo":"/content/dam/aarp/benefits_discounts/providers/philips-lifeline/450x450-lifeline-logo.jpg","provider_logo_alt_text":"450x450 Lifeline Logo","provider_logo_cdn_uri":"https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/aarp/benefits_discounts/providers/philips-lifeline/450x450-lifeline-logo.imgcache.rev3715a4efc78e63ce8a646ca5fc6725a0.jpg","provider_logo_width":"450","provider_logo_height":"450","enable_utm_parameters":"","append_aid_paramter":"","lto_model_heading":"Limited Time Member Offers","lto_advertisement":"Member Exclusive Advertisement","ty_socialMissionFlag":"true","deeplink_param_value":"lifeline-medical-alert-service","pixel_learn_more_value":"","howto_redeem_2":"Learn More","howto_redeem_already_registered_nonmember_label":"Already a member?","howto_redeem_already_registered_anon_label":"Already a member?","image_alt_text":"grandfather and grandson sitting on window bench inside with game controllers in hand","image_title":"Lifeline Medical Alert Service","image_cdn_uri":"https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/aarp/benefits_discounts/providers/philips-lifeline/1140x641-grandfather-playing-video-game-w-grandson.imgcache.rev1d813e0366443348b4ca488d8960e0dc.jpg","tab_label_offer_details":"Details","tab_label_restrictions":"Disclosures","geoloc_tab_label":"Locations","disclaimer_label":"","geoloc_provider_legal_info":"","geoloc_miles_label_text":"Miles","geoloc_show_results_within_label_text":"Show results within","geoloc_see_more_button_text":"See More","geoloc_find_location_label":"Find a Location","geoloc_total_results_label":"Result(s)","geoloc_no_results_view_message":"There are no locations within a 100 mile radius. Please try another location","geoloc_tab_hint_text":"Enter an address, city, or ZIP","geoloc_mobile_list_cta":"LIST VIEW","geoloc_mobile_list_cta_url":"","geoloc_mobile_map_cta":"MAP VIEW","geoloc_mobile_map_cta_url":"","geoloc_provider_link_cta_url":"","geoloc_experience_type":"","ty_ctaText":"Continue","geoloc_hide_tab":"true","ty_interstitialText":"Thanks for visiting aarp.org! Come back again to check out all of the AARP Member Benefits and unlock the full power of membership.","howto_redeem_label":"How to Access","ty_interstitialDesc":"Come back again to check out all of the AARP Member Benefits and unlock the full power of membership.","ty_cancelText":"Cancel","ty_interstitialTitle":"Thanks for visiting aarp.org!","lto_daysleft":"Days Left","provider_logo_title":"450x450 Lifeline Logo","geoloc_hide_see_more_button":"false","geoloc_provider_link_cta":"","offer_page_path":"/benefits-discounts/all/lifeline-medical-alert-service/","redemption_content":"","show_phone_number_above_cta":"","restrictions_label":"Disclosures","show_state_availability":"","state_availability_text":"SEE AVAILABILITY IN YOUR STATE","hideRestrictionsTab":"","ltos":[]},"parentOfferJson":{}}]}

For example, two weeks of more recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that both cases and deaths continued to rise in nursing homes from Aug. 20 through to Sep. 3, making nine consecutive weeks of rising resident cases and 11 straight weeks of rising staff cases. Also, while deaths are currently tracking lower, other impacts, including infection rates, are tracking at similar or worse levels than past years.



Priya Chidambaram, a senior policy analyst at health policy nonprofit KFF, who also tracks COVID-19 in nursing homes, agrees that the death rates are concerning.



Any number of preventable deaths is never acceptable, she says, and, ultimately, these numbers can be mitigated further if more work is done to protect this population.



Tackling lagging vaccination rates in these facilities is critical, Chidambaram adds. As of late August, only about 62 percent of residents nationwide were up to date on their shots, AARPs analysis found. That rate falls far short of earlier COVID-19 inoculation rates for nursing home residents, AARPs Houser says, which peaked at 88 percent fully vaccinated in May 2022, and 75 percent boosted in October 2022.



In some states, the number of residents up to date on shots as of late August was particularly low. Arizona reported that number at only 44 percent of nursing home residents, while Alabama and Nevada each reported that only 51 percent of those residents were up to date. South Dakota reported the highest rate of nursing home residents up to date at 79 percent.



Up-to-date vaccination rates among nursing home workers, who can spread the virus to residents, also lagged, with just 25 percent of workers nationwide having received their recommended number of shots. In states like Alabama, Arizona and Mississippi, less than 15 percent of workers were up to date. Meanwhile, Washington, D.C., reported the highest rate of staff up to date with COVID-19 vaccines at 57 percent.



AARPs ongoing analysis, conducted by the AARP Public Policy Institute and the Scripps Gerontology Center at Miami University in Ohio, draws primarily on data from the Nursing Home COVID-19 Public File by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Most U.S. nursing homes are federally certified and required to submit data to the government each week. Read more about the analysis here.


Pedro Pascal, 48, has captivated audiences with his easygoing, irreverent style. Hes been dubbed Daddy Pascal for his leading roles in The Last of Us (HBO) and The Mandalorian (Disney+). But before his sweeping success in Game of Thrones and Narcos, his acting career got off to a difficult start, and he knocked on a lot of doors before anyone believed in him. Here are seven little-known facts about this increasingly popular actor.

Pedro Pascal in New York City in 2005, before his career took off in Hollywood. He made his directorial debut in 2008 with the play "underneathmybed." Brad Barket/Getty Images

1. He changed his last name to honor the love of his life

Born in Santiago, Chile, Pascal is the son of child psychologist Veronica Pascal and fertility doctor Jose Balmaceda. His parents fled Chile during the military dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. When he was in his 20s, Pascal had to deal with his mothers suicide. Its hard to say what I most remember about her. ... She was the love of my life. I think of her every day. Since I dont pray, I cant say I have a practice that helps me feel her close, but I live for her, even though shes no longer here, and that makes sense to me, he told the Chilean newspaper La Tercera. To honor his mother, he began using her last name Pascal.

AARP Membership Join AARP for $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP The Magazine. Join Now Pedro Pascal delivers a monologue as guest host on "Saturday Night Live," where he talked about the strong ties he has with his family in his native Chile.  Will Heath/NBC via Getty Images

2. He shares a chat group called Scoundrels with 34 cousins

Jose Pedro Balmaceda Pascal (his full name) is the second of four siblings. He speaks Spanish and is proud of his Chilean roots. He says he has 34 first cousins who are part of a chat group called Sinverguenzas (Scoundrels). They all have my phone number, and they give it out. I get messages every day.  They will let me be myself  but I think that there are no limits for what may be requested, he said jovially on The Graham Norton Show. During his monologue on Saturday Night Live, he talked about his close family ties: They are very proud of me, he acknowledged. Then, addressing his family directly on live TV: I love you, I miss you, and stop giving out my phone number.

Pedro Pascal as Oberyn Martell in Season 4 of the HBO series "Game of Thrones" (2014). HBO/Alamy Stock Photo

3. Making his fans happy got him an eye infection

Pascal vaulted to fame in the role of Oberyn Martell a.k.a. the Red Viper on Game of Thrones. Game of Thrones was this  kind of ideal experience getting to play this beautifully written iconic character who has a big in and a big out in one very solid season, he told Entertainment Weekly. The gruesome death of Prince Oberyn  in a duel in which Gregor Clegane, a warrior known as the Mountain, crushes his skull by pressing down brutally on his eyes with his thumbs  inspired Pascals fans, who tried to recreate the scene whenever they came across Pascal at various events. People were super into taking selfies with their thumbs in my eyes ... and I would let them ... and I remember getting a little bit of an eye infection.
From Xinjiang to Yiwu: The Belt and Road blueprint for success

People's Daily Online) 09:38, September 14, 2023

A photo shows Yi Xiaojun (first from left) introducing Georgian red wine to customers, Aug. 16, 2023. (Photo by Shiliuyun-Xinjiang Daily/ Chen Qiangwei)

"Come here, please, and taste the tea I brewed," said Yi Xiaojun on Aug. 16, 2023, as he sat in front of his office tea counter, adeptly preparing Pu'er tea for reporters.

Dressed in a white shirt, the young man of the Xibe ethnic group, originally from northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, has now called Yiwu, in east China's Zhejiang Province, home for 19 years. Having married in Yiwu, he's embraced the local custom of welcoming guests with tea.

Discussing his journey from Xinjiang to Yiwu, Yi remarked, "My personal story is intertwined with the national policy of opening up to the world. The Belt and Road Initiative has fast-tracked the realization of my dreams."

Back in 2002, Yi was employed by a Georgian logistics firm at the Bianjiang Hotel Commercial Market in Urumqi. It was during this period that he taught himself Russian. His dedication and genuine nature cultivated friendships with many Georgian businesspeople, which helped him accumulate clients for his future entrepreneurship.

"In 2002 and 2003, our capacity expanded from two warehouses to eight, and at its peak, we could send 12 trucks of goods to Georgia per day," Yi recalled. At that time, all the goods sent to Georgia from across the country were gathered in the warehouse of the Bianjiang Hotel and then transported by road to Georgia.

Recognizing the significant volume of goods moving from Yiwu to Urumqi, the company decided in 2004 to send Yi to Yiwu to explore sea transport avenues.

And so, Yi became connected with Yiwu. Initially, he faced challenges adjusting to the local weather and cuisine. However, as trade between China and Georgia intensified, he immersed himself more in his work and gradually embraced life in Yiwu.

In the blink of an eye, 2010 arrived. At that time, Yi was preparing to marry a woman from Yiwu. Yet, he neither owned a car nor a house. Resolutely, he chose to start his own business.

"The entrepreneurial atmosphere in Yiwu is very good," Yi observed. Capitalizing on the strong reputation he'd established in his earlier roles, he garnered support from his Georgian clients during the nascent stages of his venture. By 2012, he had acquired his first office space.

"When doing business, you can't just focus on making money. You need to treat your customers as friends and put yourself in their shoes to achieve mutual benefit," said Yi. Having achieved success in his career, he's proudly fulfilled his marital vow to provide his wife with a good life.

As 2015 approached, Yi's foreign trade operations flourished consistently. However, mere stability didn't satisfy his ambitions; he yearned for fresh avenues to explore.

"At the time, it was two years since the Belt and Road Initiative had been proposed, and Georgia was one of the first countries to respond to it. I wanted to take the opportunity to find new business opportunities," Yi said.

That same year, Yi's acquaintances in Xinjiang introduced him to Georgian red wine, igniting his interest. "I've collaborated with Georgian partners for years, yet I was oblivious to Georgian red wine. It's plausible that many Chinese consumers share this unawareness," he noted, sensing a largely untapped market.

Delving deeper, he realized Georgia's rich viniculture legacy, with its conventional clay pot fermentation technique even hailed as a global intangible cultural heritage.

Interestingly, Yi Xiaojun, a non-drinker, specifically journeyed back to Xinjiang, where he noticed a burgeoning trend: the region, being the gateway to the Eurasian market, was witnessing a surge in demand for Georgian red wine. An entrepreneurial spark lit up: "This is a business opportunity."

Back in Yiwu, he immersed himself in understanding Georgian red wine intricacies and initiated the import process. "The thrill was reminiscent of embarking on a business endeavor for the very first time," Yi remarked.

In 2015, Yi founded a Georgian culture promotion and experience center in Yiwu and has been committed to promoting Georgian culture.

A year later, in 2016, the Yiwu Municipal People's Government signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the relevant Georgian authorities. After this pact, 360,000 bottles of red wine were promptly housed in the overseas warehouse of Yiwu's Bonded Logistics Center.

By 2018, the China-Georgia Free Trade Agreement was officially ratified, paving new avenues for Yi's ventures. Riding this momentum, he founded the Qvevri Georgian Red Wine Museum in Yiwu the ensuing year.

Nowadays, Yi not only helms his own red wine label but also collaborates with 15 distinguished Georgian wineries. His annual imports tally up to 540,000 bottles of Georgian red wine.

With the further development of the Belt and Road Initiative, Yi's foreign trade business has changed from a strictly export-centric approach to a balanced import-export model.

"The growing demand for high-quality goods from abroad has become a new way for me to showcase my skills," Yi said.

Having commenced with road logistics before transitioning to maritime channels, Yi is currently gearing up to leverage the speed and efficiency of the China-Europe Railway Express (Yixinou) to transport goods to Georgia.

"Over the past decade, I have traveled from Xinjiang to Yiwu, and my business has expanded from only exporting to importing and exporting. It's like I have walked my own 'New Silk Road,'" Yi laughed.

Source: english.ts.cn

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Tesla's India EV component sourcing is expected to reach two folds this 2023. This means that the giant automaker could spend almost $2 billion on Indian car parts, as confirmed by the country's commerce minister.

Tesla's India EV Component Sourcing Could Reach Almost $2 Billion

Tech Crunch reported that Tesla is planning to increase its EV component sourcing from India up to $1.9 billion.

India's Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal announced this effort during an auto event, which happened on Wednesday, Sept. 13, in New Delhi.

In 2022, Tesla spent around $1 billion just to buy automobile components from the South Asian country. Now, the EV maker targets to spend around $1.7 to $1.9 billion before 2023 ends.

"We'll start enjoying the fruits of new technologies, innovation, and R&D coming into India," said Goyal.

"The auto component industry will not only then produce for a larger India demand, but with the same models being sold in the rest of the world, we will also start exporting those components," he added.

Read Also: How Tesla Revolutionizes EV Industry; Steering Yoke and Other Influential Innovations

Will Tesla Start Constructing Its Indian Plants?

In July, Reuters reported that some Tesla representatives met with Goyal. Their meeting discussed the planned Indian factory, which will be built for an all-new $24,000 EV model.

Tesla's officials explained that the EV maker wants to construct a new factory in India that would manufacture low-cost electric cars for the local market.

If successful, the automaker will even export affordable Indian-made EV models to different markets.

It seems that Tesla is now close to starting its planned Indian manufacturing plants since it wants to invest more in buying automobile components from the Asian country.

Unfortunately, the EV maker hasn't shared any update yet regarding its Indian EV plants.

Boosting Tesla-India Relationship

Tesla CEO Elon Musk previously met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The billionaire confirmed that he's looking to invest in the country, as well as establish its local presence in the Indian market.

But, Musk didn't provide any investment plan, timeline, or other details. Although this is the case, there have been discussions that the EV maker will bring its business to the South Asian nation.

However, the tech executive clarified that they will only start manufacturing EVs locally in India if the country allows them to service and sell imported ones there.

Related Article: Mexican Authorities to Issue Final Permits for Tesla Gigafactory, Official Says

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Pharmacies, clinics and other health care providers are now administering the newly approved COVID-19 vaccines. But will you need to pay for the shot yourself now that Uncle Sam is no longer covering the cost for everyone?

Probably not, though getting the shot for free isnt as much of a no-brainer as it was during the height of the pandemic. Up to now, the cost of a COVID-19 vaccine wasnt even discussed. From the time the first vaccines became available in late 2020, the federal government was footing the entire bill. It had bought hundreds of millions of doses, and Americans were able to get shots without paying a dime.

AARP Membership Join AARP for $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP The Magazine. Join Now

Now that the COVID-19 public health emergency is officially over, whether you have to pay out of pocket and how much will depend on what kind of health care coverage you have. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended on Sept. 12 that everyone 6 months of age and older get the latest vaccine.

Here's how much you could expect to pay, if anything, depending on your insurance.

On Medicare or Medicaid? Its paid for

For Medicare enrollees, the new COVID shots are free of charge to beneficiaries. This goes for whether you have original Medicare or are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan. COVID vaccines are covered under Part B, the part of Medicare that pays for doctor visits and other outpatient services.

Find COVID-19 Vaccines in Your State AARP's 53 state and territory COVID-19 vaccine guides can help you find vaccines near you and provide the latest answers to common questions about costs, eligibility and availability.

But there is a caveat. If you are in an MA plan, you probably have a network of pharmacies and doctors that you have to use to get the maximum coverage. If you go out of network to get your COVID-19 vaccine, you may be subject to some cost sharing. How much will depend on your plan.

Medicaid, the federal-state program for people with low incomes, will cover the vaccine at no cost to enrollees.

Have private insurance? Its probably paid for

Virtually all private insurers will have to cover the updated COVID-19 vaccines at no cost, says Jen Kates, senior vice president and director of global health and HIV policy for KFF, a nonpartisan health policy organization.

Kates explains that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandates that these vaccines be covered as part of its preventive services requirements. And beyond that, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act strengthened that provision by requiring that private insurers cover COVID-19 vaccines within 15 days of their being recommended by the CDC.
If you get your political news from social media, you might have seen the following stories. At an event in Maui following the islands deadly wildfires, President Joe Biden appeared to fall asleep. At a July 4 parade in Hempstead, New York, former vice president Mike Pence was apparently struck in the head with a water balloon. And an image, circa the 1990s, showed Donald Trump dancing closely with a 13-year-old girl at a private island belonging to the late financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Terrible stuff, right? Theres just one problem: None of it is true. The blurry, low-quality Maui video was edited, trimmed and taken out of context  the full high-def version shows that the charge is false, according to RumorGuard.org, a fact-checking site from the nonprofit News Literacy Project. The water balloon hit Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, not Mike Pence. And the Trump photo was a fabrication generated by artificial intelligence (AI), according to RumorGuard.

AARP Membership Join AARP for $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP The Magazine. Join Now

As the 2024 election approaches, detecting misinformation (false or misleading info that spreads unintentionally) and disinformation (info thats designed to deceive) will become increasingly challenging as deep fakes grow more sophisticated.

I think one change were going to see in 2024 is the rapid acceleration and quality of artificial intelligence tools, says Peter Adams, senior vice president of research and design with the News Literacy Project. Someone can take authentic video of any candidate and change what they've said, and mimic their voice, and make it look like their mouths are saying it.

Adding to the problem, says Adams: Platforms such as YouTube, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) are taking less responsibility for reducing the spread of misinformation. To help determine whats real and whats not, follow these strategies.

1. Access fact-checking sites

Multiple websites debunk false statements, images, and videos from across the political spectrum. In addition to RumorGuard, one of the most respected is Factcheck.org from The Annenberg Public Policy Center. Other reliable sites include PolitiFact (managed by the Poynter Institute, a nonprofit educational organization for journalists) and Snopes. The Fact Checker, run by The Washington Post, grades information from Republicans and Democrats alike on a scale of 1 to 4 Pinocchios.

2. Watch for AI clues

Many AI images look very authentic, but for now, with the tech in its relative infancy, you often can still find hints that theyre fake. Some of the most compelling AI image tools look a little cinematic, a little too polished, says Adams. They tend to look a bit softer  with an almost airbrushed quality. Adams points to a March 2023 image of Trump supposedly being arrested and surrounded by police. The shot is not as crisp as an actual photograph  and a police officer in the background is missing a face. He adds, "Other giveaways are unrealistic or nonsensical backgrounds, and bizarre, missing or misshapen minor details," including hands that have an odd shape or have an extra finger.

3. Be a skeptic

Low-tech image manipulation can be just as effective as AI. In 2020, a video circulated online showing people stuffing a ballot box  but the clip was from Russia, not the United States. If something sounds too good or too bad to be true, it probably is, says Jevin West, founding director of the University of Washington Center for an Informed Public. We need to put in more work now to tell whats real.


Half Yearly Report and Accounts

Sydney, Sep 13, 2023 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Empire Energy Group Ltd ( ASX:EEG ) ( EEGUF:OTCMKTS ) has had another productive half year as we progress towards our goal of maiden commercial production from the Beetaloo Basin.



These developments come at a critical time for NT and East Coast Australia energy security as existing sources of gas supply decline. The Beetaloo Basin offers the lowest CO2 source of new gas supply into constrained markets.



Carpentaria-2H ("C-2H") was brought back online to test the benefit of soaking with excellent results. Empire announced a material increase in C-2H average flow over 30 days ("IP30") to 3.3 TJ / day (2.81 mmscf / day) which was 17% higher than the IP30 achieved during the initial 51-day extended production test undertaken during Q3 2022. This rate is a normalised flow rate of 3.5 TJ / day (3.0 mmcf / day) per 1,000 metres at C2H, demonstrating that soaking has had a material beneficial impact on flow rates, consistent with productivity improvements seen in other wells in the Beetaloo Sub-basin and in US shale gas basins. This rate also exceeds the benchmark other Beetaloo players have put forth as being commercial noting that Empire also benefits from cost advantages given the shallow depths of its acreage.



North American reservoir engineering firm Subsurface Dynamics, Inc. (SSD) analysed the flow testing performance of C-2H. SSD's analysis indicates that development wells with 3km laterals in the C-2H area could generate total estimated ultimate recovery (EUR) of 7.9 PJ gas per well on a P50 basis and 9.3 PJ gas per well on a P10 basis. Most of this gas would be produced in the first 3 - 5 years, consistent with US shale basins, which would drive rapid recovery of invested capital. This represents a potential upstream development cost of A$2 - A$3 / GJ in future development scenarios assuming a capital cost of $15 million - $20 million per future development well.



Carpentaria-3H (C-3H) was flow tested for 27 days and then shut in for soaking. It was brought back online in early August, during which the well achieved an average daily production rate increase of 30% over the initial "pre-soak" test. The average rate over the first 30 days (IP30) for the "post-soak" testing was 3.3 mmscf / day (3.8 TJ / day), with a rate on day 30 of 2.6 mmscf / day (2.9 TJ / day). Testing is ongoing at the time of release.



Petrophysical interpretation of Carpentaria-4V (C-4V) data confirmed that net pay in the Middle Velkerri B is 20% greater and ~150 metres deeper than at the C-2H/C-3H location which is likely to drive greater gas in place per unit of rock and increased pressure could potentially drive higher flow rates.



The successful 2022 Beetaloo work program resulted in the certification of an LNG scale resource independently assessed by Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc. (NSAI) for Empire's wholly owned and operated EP187 2C Contingent Resources increased by 270% to 1,739 PJ, a substantial volume compared to our ASX listed peers. Due to the high calorific value of the Empire's EP187 gas, NSAI assessed sales volumes in PJ have a higher energy content than equivalent dry gas volumes.



Empire is progressing Front End Engineering and Design ("FEED"), field development planning, indigenous and regulatory approvals, gas sales and pipeline transportation negotiations for the proposed Carpentaria Pilot Project in EP187.



The Northern Territory Government announced the final implementation of all recommendations of the 2018 Scientific Inquiry into Hydraulic Fracturing in the NT chaired by Justice Rachel Pepper, establishing the platform for commencement of commercial gas production in the Beetaloo Sub-basin. The regulatory framework the NT Government has put in place is now amongst the most extensive and robust in the world which will allow the safe and sustainable development of the Beetaloo's abundant natural gas resources.



The Final Implementation Report concluded: "Having considered the system reform undertaken as a complete package, the NT Government is now satisfied that the risks identified by the Inquiry have been sufficiently mitigated and is confident that applications for onshore petroleum production licenses may now be accepted for consideration by the new regulatory regime."



*To view the full Half Yearly report, please visit:

https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/8N769VCE





About Empire Energy Group Ltd





Empire Energy (ASX:EEG) (OTCMKTS:EEGUF) holds over 14.5 million acres of highly prospective exploration tenements in the McArthur and Beetaloo Basins, Northern Territory. Work undertaken by the Company since 2010 demonstrates that the Eastern depositional Trough of the McArthur Basin, of which the Company holds 80% has very considerable conventional and unconventional hydrocarbon potential. The Beetaloo sub-Basin, in which Empire holds a substantial position, has independently assessed world class hydrocarbon volumes in place with a major ramp up in industry activity underway to appraise substantial discoveries already made by major Australian oil and gas operators.

Empire Energy is an experienced conventional oil and gas producer with operations in the Appalachia region (New York and Pennsylvania). Empire has been successfully developing and producing oil and gas since 2006.

Related Companies
US Senator for Utah Mitt Romney (R) announced in a video statement Wednesday (September 13) that he would not seek reelection in 2024.

With this announcement, it is expected that he will serve out the duration of his term until its expiry in January 2025.

Romney, who became known as the Republican presidential nominee in 2012 and the only member of his party to twice vote to convict former president Donald Trump in politically charged impeachment trials, said he would not seek a second term and would allow a new generation of statesmen to "step up" and "shape the world they're going to live in."

His decision not to seek reelection next year is likely to mark the end of a political career that has been notable, especially in the Trump era, for independence and a willingness to stand up against the base of his party that has shifted dramatically in Trump's direction in the decade since Romney was its standard-bearer, the Washington Post reported.

Read Also: Boosting US-Vietnam Ties: China, Russia, Airbus Among Those That Could Be Negatively Affected

Romney Cites Old Age as Reason for Standing Down

The 76-year-old senator said his decision was heavily influenced by his belief that a second term, which would take him to his 80s, would probably be less productive and less satisfying than the current term he has been in, which he blamed in both on the disarray he saw among House Republicans and on his own lack of confidence in the leadership of both President Joe Biden and Trump before him.

"It's very difficult for the House to operate, from what I can tell," he said in a lengthy telephone interview previewing his formal announcement, "and two, and perhaps more importantly, we're probably going to have either Trump or Biden as our next president. And Biden is unable to lead on important matters and Trump is unwilling to lead on important matters."

Despite him exiting the Senate after the 2024 election, Romney insisted he would look for ways for him to be as productive as possible and would neither "hit the beach" nor retire from the party.

Prior to his stint as senator, Romney twice sought the presidency and served as governor of Massachusetts before moving to Utah and being elected to the Senate as the highest-achieving Mormon politician of his time. His father, George, was a governor of Michigan, ran unsuccessfully for president in 1968, and served as secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President Richard Nixon.

Related Article: California Gov. Gavin Newsom Expected to Sign Measure Outlawing School District Book Bans

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Cover Images/Dutch Press Photo Movie

Calling the movie axing the 'biggest disappointment' of their careers, Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah are sad that nobody could see Michael Keaton reprising his Batman role in their version.

Sep 14, 2023

AceShowbiz - "Batgirl" directors Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah have told how the movie's axing is the "biggest disappointment" of their careers. The pair helmed the unreleased DC superhero movie that was scrapped by the studio last summer due to a shift in filmmaking approach, and El Arbi admits one of the worst parts of the movie being ditched was that nobody could see Michael Keaton reprising his Batman role in their version.

He told Insider, "It's the biggest disappointment of our careers. As a fanboy, just to be in the presence of Keaton as Batman, that's just a privilege and an honor. But it's a bittersweet feeling."

Fallah added, "I felt like a kid on set working with Keaton. I totally forgot that I was directing."

El Arbi also believes the movie should've been given a chance in theatres, because the audience is the pair's "ultimate boss." He said, "We didnt get the chance to show 'Batgirl' to the world and let the audience judge for themselves. Because the audience really is our ultimate boss and should be the deciders of if something is good or bad, or if something should be seen or not."

The filmmakers found it tough to watch "The Flash" following Batgirl's axing. El Arbi explained, "We watched it, and we were sad. We love director Andy Muschietti and his sister Barbara, who produced the movie. But when we watched it, we felt we could have been part of the whole thing."

However, in January, the pair admitted they would be willing to work with Warner Bros. again. El Arbi told Variety, "We're fans of DC, and if we get the chance in the future to do something in that universe, we're never gonna say no. I mean, of course, our only condition is that the movie needs to come out."

You can share this post!
Cover Images/Instagram/Faye's Vision Celebrity

The 'Fast and Furious' star pulls up some receipts after the 'Breakfast Club' co-host said he 'blocked' him because he didn't 'respect' the way the actor spoke to his wife.

Sep 14, 2023

AceShowbiz - Tyrese Gibson has vehemently denied allegations leveled at him by DJ Envy and his wife, Gia Casey. The Roman Pearce depicter in the "Fast and Furious" film series was accused of sending "disrespectful" texts to Gia, but he insisted he didn't do such a thing.

The 44-year-old shared his side of the story through an Instagram video posted on Monday, September 11. In the 22-minute clip, the actor shared, "I've lost a little sleep since I've been home about a man accusing me of disrespecting his wife, as he said."

"Charlamagne saying, 'What did he say?' I was wondering too. What did I say? So of course, you know, he beautiful thing about the iMessage, the iCloud, [is] it gives you an opportunity to recall text messages," he added. "I don't see nothing in the text messages directly into Envy or directly into his wife where I disrespected him or her."

Tyrese then referenced his prior "psych meds" issues, noting that it's "not even in my character to disrespect any man, specifically his wife." He also showed the date of an alleged group text with DJ Envy and his wife, as well as a one-on-one text thread with the latter.

During Tyrese's appearance on "The Breakfast Club", DJ Envy told the actor that he "blocked" him because he didn't "respect" the way the actor talked to people. The podcast host continued, "I didnt want to see Tyrese as that. That's not the man that was my brother."

"I never had a conversation with you because I never wanted to see you like that," the disc jockey, real name RaaShaun Casey, further elaborated. "The person who spoke to my wife during that time with the texts, I didn't like that. And I wanted to remember Tyrese as a brother who helped my relationship, not the Tyrese that I was going through [it with]."

On Tuesday, DJ Envy and Gia reacted to Tyrese's video. They admitted that the "Fast X" star helped them fix their marriage when DJ Envy had an affair. However, Gia claimed Tyrese "crossed" the line in their friendship.

"I felt like he was extremely demanding of my time and attention, where if I didn't give him my time and my attention, he would get very angry, get very upset," she alleged. "There was flirting and inappropriate compliments, for a woman who's married. ... Very clear lines were crossed."

"I just don't like to be called a liar," DJ Envy then chimed in. "And when somebody says, 'I got receipts, I got receipts,' I'm like, no, you spoke to my wife.' "

You can share this post!
Instagram TV

The Australian pro dancer says she learned she wouldnt be receiving an invite when her co-stars began getting calls to return while her phone remained silent.

Sep 14, 2023

AceShowbiz - Sharna Burgess has expressed her disappointment for not getting asked back to "Dancing with the Stars". The pro dancer said it was "tough" knowing her friends got return calls for the show's season 32 while she didn't.

The 38-year-old opened up about the matter when speaking to her beau Brian Austin Green in their new iHeart Radio podcast "Old-Ish". She said, "Last season I was supposed to come back but Zane was only eight weeks old It just felt like I needed to sit in motherhood with Zane... It was always, 'I want to come back next year,' and 'Of course, we love you, we'll always have you.' "

"Because it was such a shock, because I wasn't expecting it, it was tough," the Australian native, who welcome to her and Brian's first child together in June last year, confessed. "It's not the first time. My last five years on the show have been rocky - not because of the show."

"I love the show deeply, but we had a new executive producer come in, I think five years ago now. I had just won with Bobby Bones and he decided to not bring me back," she further lamented. "There's a lot of speculation as to why."

Sharna went on to spill a celebrity partner that she didn't enjoy working with. "They had me back the following season and I had a partner that was really difficult - and not say too much because I don't want to - I wasn't able to be in the room alone with him after the first couple of weeks because of things that happened," she said of Jesse Metcalfe, her partner for season 29. "That was rocky and we were eliminated very quickly."

Sharna was partnered with Brian for "DWTS" season 30, but she said it wasn't easy since people focused more on their relationship. "The same executive producer who's no longer there, I did not love what he did with the show," she said. "Hearing from people around that they were genuinely trying to just have this spotlight on our relationship, not his neurological stuff, not his experience, not our working through this together, but to almost say our relationship was the issue with the dancing in some way."

"I did text someone at that time and was like, 'Hey this isn't what we signed up for," she went on recalling. "If this is what you want for us, you just have to eliminate us because we cant do this. And we were quickly eliminated after that."

You can share this post!
Cover Images/BauerGriffin Celebrity

In his filing, which was submitted on Tuesday, September 12, the 'Lost Boys' actor additionally stated that he wants to block the court's ability to award spousal support for his wife of six years.

Sep 14, 2023

AceShowbiz - Corey Feldman has really given up on his marriage to Courtney Anne. One month after announcing their split, "The Lost Boys" star reportedly filed for legal separation from his wife of six years.

The 52-year-old filed his petition to a Los Angeles Superior Court on Tuesday, September 12. According to the legal docs, he said that he and his spouse has been separated since June 22 of this year. The actor also cited "irreconcilable differences" as the reason of their split.

Corey additionally stated that he wants to block the court's ability to award spousal support for his now-ex. There is no issue of child support since they don't have any children together.

Corey confirmed he's called it quits with Courtney on August 7. "It is with great sadness that Courtney and I have made the decision to separate after many wonderful years together. We have been through so much together and still have much love and respect for each other," he told Page Six at the time.

"There is no one to blame," he further elaborated. "This is a case of life becoming really hard, Courtney dealing with health issues, and two people who have grown apart and now find themselves at a crossroads."

"Due to Courtney's health concerns and the process of healing, we both feel it's not in her best interest to continue on [their current tour] 'Love Retours 23' at this time," he continued. "On behalf of myself and my band, we all love her and ask for your prayers in wishing her a speedy recovery. We don't know what the future will hold, but we know that the love we have for each other is not going anywhere."

Courtney herself also released a statement to the outlet. "It is with a deep and heavy sadness that I am announcing my separation from Corey," she said. "We've shared some amazing times together both private and public, and I will always cherish these moments we've shared together. I love him dearly and I always will."

During the chat, Courtney also discussed her health issues. "I've struggled for two years with health issues old and new; and this has taken a massive toll on me and my family," she shared. "I always try to keep positive and a light heart regardless of what I am going through physically, but sadly it has now crossed a threshold where I can no longer continue on with the tour."

"It's been a long journey of dealing with my own chronic fatigue syndrome which makes it difficult to keep up with the high energy of touring and traveling from place to place," she added. "However, I do wish 'My Love, Husband, & Friend' and the bandmates a happy tour and the very best out there. I know they will be amazing as they put on a great show."

You can share this post!
Cover Images/Roger Wong Celebrity

The 'Ray Donovan' actor and his longtime girlfriend are spotted stepping out with their newborn daughter Hazel Bee after announcing the baby's arrival via social media.

Sep 14, 2023

AceShowbiz - Liev Schreiber has been back on diaper duty after welcoming his first child together with Taylor Neisen. The couple has been spotted out with their newborn daughter for the first time after announcing the baby's arrival via social media.

The "Ray Donovan" star and the former pageant queen were seen with their newborn baby while out and about in New York City on Wednesday, September 13. In photos obtained by Page Six, the 55-year-old actor pushed a stroller while his longtime partner carried her baby in a tan baby sling.

The baby's face and body were almost entirely hidden, with just the top of the infant's head poking out of the wrap. Being protective parents, the pair stopped a few times to check on their child as they made their way around Soho, according to the report.

Liev kept it casual in an all-black ensemble that included a T-shirt, dark pants and matching shoes as well as a cap. Taylor, meanwhile, rocked a black T-shirt and blue jeans teamed with black sandals. Her hair was pulled into a bun, while she accessorized with a gold necklace and stylish sunglasses.

Around the same time the pictures surfaced online, Liev took to his Instagram page to share the happy news. "So happy that Hazel Bee is finally here. She arrived early in the morning of August 27th and has been a dream every day...," he wrote along with two pictures showing the baby's tiny hand and foot.

Liev and Taylor, who is 24 years his junior, have been together since 2017. The Miss South Dakota 2012 debuted casually debuted her baby bump while walking with the Golden Globe nominee in April of this year. The following month, the 31-year-old covered her budding belly in flowing gowns while walking multiple red carpets with her boyfriend.

While the newborn baby is the first for Taylor, Liev has two other children from his relationship with his former partner Naomi Watts. The former pair, who were dating from 2005 until 2016, share daughter Sasha, 16, and son Kai, 14.

You can share this post!
Cover Images/Captive Camera Celebrity

The Oscar-winning actor and director raged over the 'King Richard' star assaulting Chris Rock at the 2022 Academy Awards while referencing how he was imprisoned for a similar incident.

Sep 14, 2023

AceShowbiz - Sean Penn has fumed Will Smith didn't go to jail for his Oscars assault on Chris Rock like he did for attacking a movie extra. Raging over Will assaulting the comedian at the 2022 Academy Awards, the 63-year-old Oscar-winning actor and director was referencing how he was imprisoned for a similar incident, when he punched and spat on an extra who starred with him in the 1988 cop film "Colors".

He vented in the new issue of Variety magazine, "I don't know Will Smith. I met him once. He seemed very nice when I met him. He was so f**king good in 'King Richard'. So why the f**k did you just spit on yourself and everybody else with this stupid f**king thing?"

"Why did I go to f**king jail for what you just did? And you're still sitting there?" he went on fuming. "Why are you guys standing and applauding his worst moment as a person?"

Sean, who won two Academy Awards for best actor for "Mystic River" in 2003 and 2008's "Milk", also raged about Oscars bosses refusing to let the president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, to speak at the 2022 Oscars where Will smacked Chris, weeks after Ukraine was invaded by Russia. The actor raged, "The Oscars producer thought, 'Oh, he's not light-hearted enough.' Well, guess what you got instead? Will Smith!"

Sean also said Will's attack made him think of having his Oscars trophies melted down to make bullets for Ukraine's war against Russia. He added, "I thought, well, f**k, you know? I'll give them to Ukraine. They can be melted down to bullets they can shoot at the Russians."

When he was 26 in 1987, Sean was sentenced to 60 days in county jail after punching and spitting on an extra on the set of "Colors", in which he starred as a rookie cop alongside a veteran officer played by Robert Duvall. Sean has had multiple instances of being charged over altercations, including in 2010 when he was sentenced to three years of probation and 300 hours of community service after attacking a photographer.

Will has apologized to Chris for hitting him and the "Men in Black" star has been banned him from attending Oscar events for 10 years. Will Packer, the producer of the 2022 Oscars, has revealed police were prepared to arrest Will at the event if Chris had wanted to press charges.

He told "Good Morning America", "They were saying, 'This is battery' - the word they used in that moment." He added, "They said, 'We will go get him. We are prepared to get him right now, you can press charges. We can arrest him.' They were laying out the options."

You can share this post!
Cover Images/Sara De Boer/Jen Lowery Celebrity

Shortly after defending her 'friend' who is a convicted rapist, the 'Orange Is the New Black' star sparks concern with her weird choice of outfit during an outing in Palm Springs.

Sep 14, 2023

AceShowbiz - Taryn Manning has sparked concern while making a public appearance for the first time following her support to a convicted rapist. Shortly after defending her "friend" Danny Masterson against critics despite his 30-year prison sentence in rape case, the "Orange is the New Black" star stepped out in a bizarre outfit.

On Tuesday afternoon, September 12, the 44-year-old was caught on camera sporting a strange ensemble during her day out in Palm Springs. She showed off most of her legs and flashed her tummy in only a pair of undies, a bra top and unzipped white jacket. She also donned a pair of glossy red high boots which did not appear to match the rest of her get-up.

Styling her hair in a high bun, the actress put on a pair of black sunglasses as a shield from the sunlight. At that time, she was walking on the streets of California while being accompanied by her dog. She cradled her lovely white-furred pet on one of her arms.

That same day, Taryn also left social media users baffled with a video which she uploaded via Instagram. In the clip, she was wearing a similar get-up that she donned during the day out. She could be seen sporting a black bra top and a pair of matching panties. She also had similar black shades and red boots. However, she traded her white jacket with a black one.

The footage documented her flaunting a number of her dance moves in front of a huge mirror in a living room. She played a song by Mighty Mo Rodgers titled "Black Coffee and Cigarettes" in the background. At one point, she displayed more of her skin by taking her jacket off her shoulders as she continued dancing and clapping her hands up in the air. Her dog also appeared at another point in the footage.

Along with the video, Taryn wrote in the caption of the post, "Fun," adding a red heart and smiling face with sunglasses emojis. She went on to write, "I have my eye on the prize. I pray he finds me. We have never met but I love you beyond words."

Taryn's dancing video was released one day after she came to Danny's defense despite his 30-year prison sentence for two counts of forcible rape. Taryn called him a "friend" whom she "really loved and cared for" in a video released via Instagram on Monday, September 11. "You humiliated somebody that I actually really loved and cared for," she blasted critics.

"I'm all the way in with everything that I've always stood for that I was hiding secretly," she continued. "And the fact that people wanna just tear us all down, like even with my friend Danny going to prison for 30 years. Yeah, he made a mistake, but everyone just keep going, keep crucifying him, as if he's not already suffering."

You can share this post!
Instagram Celebrity

According to a new report, the 34-year-old 'Buying Beverly Hills' star and her fiance are calling off their wedding after 'the dynamic of their relationship had changed.'

Sep 14, 2023

AceShowbiz - Kyle Richards' daughter Farrah Aldjufrie has reportedly ended her engagement to fiance Alex Manos. The pair called off their wedding after "the dynamic of their relationship had changed," according to the Messenger.

A source told the news outlet on Wednesday, September 13 that Farrah and Alex have been taking some time apart and there are currently no wedding plans in motion. The insider added that they broke up at the moment, though Alex allegedly would love to work things out again with the "Buying Beverly Hills" star.

"She waited a long time for the engagement," the insider further elaborated. "And the dynamic of their relationship had changed."

Farrah first sparked the split rumors when she was spotted ditching her engagement ring during a recent family vacay to Italy in August. Fans questioned the absence of the ring while commenting on the 34-year-old real estate agent's Instagram post featuring some snaps from the getaway.

"Are you still engaged?" one fan commented. Another noted, "Three years of an engagement and never got married she hides her engagement ring very well you never see that boyfriend anymore."

The couple was featured on Farrah's Instagram page for the last time on Christmas Eve 2022. Meanwhile, the last time she appeared on his was on Halloween, which is also her birthday.

"Happy birthday to the most beautiful woman in the world who I love so much and I hope this day is as special as you are [love emoji]," Alex captioned the picture. "I'm excited to start a family with you @farrahbritt." Farrah, on the other hand, skipped a public birthday shoutout for Alex on his July 24 birthday.

The two announced their engagement in November 2021 after three years of dating. She once opened up about her wedding plan in an interview with E! News, saying back in April, "I'm one of those girls... I'm not a bridezilla, and I am just taking my time." She went on to reveal, "I know the clock's ticking, but I'm taking my time."

Farrah and Alex's alleged split came following reports that Farrah's mom Kyle and dad Mauricio Umansky are going separate ways. The couple shut down the rumors, though they admitted in a joint statement that they've had a "rough year."

You can share this post!
Movie

From director Martin Scorsese, the Western crime drama film stars the Oscar-winning actor who portrays a white man who is married to an Osage woman, played by Gladstone.

Sep 14, 2023

AceShowbiz - Apple TV+ and Paramount Pictures have unleashed a new trailer for "Killers of the Flower Moon". From director Martin Scorsese, it stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Ernest Burkhart, the nephew of an influential local rancher (Robert De Niro), who is married to an Indigenous woman named Mollie (Lily Gladstone) who has inherited an oil fortune but at deathly costs.

Seemingly as part of his uncle's plot to gain control of the Osage's land, Ernest is introduced to Mollie and soon attraction sparks between the two. He is seen getting flirty with her during a ride and later making out with her in a car.

Amid the turmoil due to the serial murder of members of the oil-wealthy Osage Nation, trust issues arise between Ernest and Mollie. At the end of the trailer, De Niro's William Hale advises his nephew to pick a side and not to do things that he will regret, but it's apparently too late. "I ain't got nothing but regret," Ernest emotionally tells his uncle.

Based on David Grann's 2017 book "Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI", the Western crime drama film is set in 1920s Oklahoma and centers on the serial murder of members of the oil-wealthy Osage Nation, a string of brutal crimes that came to be known as the Reign of Terror.

According to the official synopsis, "At the turn of the 20th century, oil brought a fortune to the Osage Nation, who became some of the richest people in the world overnight. The wealth of these Native Americans immediately attracted white interlopers, who manipulated, extorted, and stole as much Osage money as they could before resorting to murder. Based on a true story and told through the improbable romance of Ernest Burkhart (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Mollie Kyle (Lily Gladstone), 'Killers of the Flower Moon' is an epic western crime saga, where real love crosses paths with unspeakable betrayal."

Also starring Jesse Plemons, Tantoo Cardinal, Cara Jade Myers, JaNae Collins and Jillian Dion, "Killers of the Flower Moon" premiered last May at the 76th Cannes Film Festival, where it earned strong reviews. It will be released in theaters on October 20 and later stream on Apple on an unspecified date.

You can share this post!
Instagram Celebrity

After his pal reportedly called it quits with Lindsay on camera, the former 'Below Deck' star also sets the record straight on rumors about the reason behind the 'Summer House' stars' breakup.

Sep 14, 2023

AceShowbiz - Captain Lee Rosbach has defended Carl Radke following his shocking split from his fiancee. After his pal allegedly "blindsided" Lindsay Hubbard with his decision to call off their engagement on camera, the former "Below Deck" star has revealed that Carl is "devastated."

The 73-year-old reality TV star, who was chosen by Carl to officiate his now-canceled wedding with Lindsay, broke his silence on the two's breakup. Speaking to his co-host Sam DeCavalcanti on "Salty with Captain Lee" podcast in the Wednesday, September 13 episode, he said, "Carl and I have had a conversation about this, and I'm not at liberty to discuss any of that conversation, but he is as devastated as anybody I've ever seen."

"It was gonna be a very high-profile wedding," the retired yacht captain went on to explain about the "Summer House" stars' now-canceled nuptials. "It was gonna be broadcast on Bravo. Is there a graceful way out of something like that? You're under a microscope, everything that you do."

During the podcast episode, Captain Lee set the record straight on rumors suggesting various reasons behind Carl and Lindsay's split. He shut down speculations that Carl cheated on her by simply letting out a "pffft." He also denied that she was pregnant.

"We're buddies. And Lindsay and I are close friends," Lee stated, assuring that he has knowledge of the two. However, he noted that he could not "shed any light" on the reason behind the split.

Elsewhere in the chat, Captain Lee shared, "I received an email from Carl and Lindsay today saying you have until like the 13th [to] cancel your rooms [with a] full refund. Is it an ideal situation? Hell no. But to sit there and say that Carl and Lindsay stuck everybody with the tab for going to their wedding is not true." He continued, "They need some time and space to work out what they need to work out between them," wishing "them both the very best."

Captain Lee's statement came after Carl and Lindsay shocked many with news of their sudden split. At the end of August, it was reported that he "blindsided" her by making a one-sided decision to call it quits on camera during the taping of season 8 of the "Summer House".

You can share this post!
Spain announced Tuesday (September 12) that it was stripping the late Chilean leader Gen. Augusto Pinochet of the Cross of Military Merit, which was bestowed upon him in 1975 by former Spanish dictator Francisco Franco.

According to the Associated Press, the government of acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said it would withdraw the military award for gallantry or merit, with the announcement coming after the 50th anniversary of the US-backed coup which instilled a brutal military dictatorship in Chile.

Pinochet, who died in 2006, was never put on trial for alleged crimes against humanity during his regime.

Read Also: Argentina Emerges as Key Player in Global Lithium Market as Chile Tightens Regulations

Stripping Pinochet Was Step Toward Democratic Values, Madrid Says

Government spokesperson Isabel Rodriguez said the step represented Spain's commitment to democratic values.

Meanwhile, Sanchez said Monday (September 11) that Chilean democracy was "the victim of a brutal attack that shook the world" and that stripping Pinochet of the Spanish medal would "make amends for a historical injustice."

Related Article: Chancellor Scholz Got Negative South American Support for Ukraine by Not Securing Ammunition

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Instagram Celebrity

The 'Dallas Buyers Club' actor makes sure his son Levi won't fall into the 'traps' of social media after he and wife Camila Alves allow him access on the boy's 15th birthday.

Sep 14, 2023

AceShowbiz - Matthew McConaughey cautioned his son about the "traps" of social media before he allowed him access to it on the boy's 15th birthday. "The Wolf of Wall Street" actor, 53, welcomed Levi with wife Camila Alves, 41, on July 7, 2008 and said he sat him down to explore the pitfalls of signing up to the likes of Instagram and X when they celebrated him turning 15.

"Let's talk about what it is. Let's talk about the upfalls. Let's talk about the downfalls. Let's talk about the assets. Let's talk about the traps," the Oscar-winner told the "Today" show about their chat.

"Let's talk about what you wanna tell. What's your story? Because what happens a lot of times with young people and social media is they wake up in the morning and the first thing on their mind is, 'What will be a good post?' Instead of, 'What do I want to do today?' "

The actor also warned youngsters should pay more attention to their own lives before rushing to share everything on social platforms, and admitted Levi is still learning the ins and outs of the online world.

He said, "I mean, we're still taking baby steps into, you know, how much he's immediately in touch with it - what he's exporting. And we're going through, we're measuring, we're discussing things."

"We had him look at a lot of other people that he looked up to, their posts. We talked, 'Why do you like those?' And then you saw certain people that had maybe more hits, and you go, 'But why did they? Were they relevant for the right reasons? Were they relevant for reasons that actually spoke to being more of themselves, rather than acting like somebody else?' The discussion is ongoing."

Dad-of-three Matthew, who also has daughter Vida, 13, and son Livingston, 10, with Camila, added he and his wife had been debating whether they would let Levi onto social media since he was 12.

The actor said, "He knows who he is, and he knows where he's going. I think he can handle it. He's got a great story to tell and share. Levi, enjoy the adventure, enjoying telling your story, expressing yourself and what you put out there and the exchange you get with people out there."

Matthew and his wife introduced their son to the world on their own social media accounts after the boy's 15th birthday. The actor said in a joint Instagram video with Camila, "Happy birthday Levi Alves McConaughey."

His wife asked her husband in the clip, "Can you believe it?" He replied, "Fifteen years young. Hey, buddy, your mom is a little nervous today. One of the gifts we're giving you, yes, we are allowing you today to join the social media universe."

You can share this post!
Cover Images/Sara De Boer Movie

Director David Gordon Green explains Linda Blair doesn't return for 'The Exorcist: Believer' because she prefers to be a special advisor on the set of the new movie.

Sep 14, 2023

AceShowbiz - "The Exorcist" star Linda Blair served as a special advisor on new sequel "The Exorcist: Believer". The hotly anticipated horror movie from Blumhouse Productions is a direct sequel to the 1973 classic, in which Linda starred as Regan MacNeil, a 12-year-old girl who is possessed by the demon Pazuzu.

Ellen Burstyn is back to play Regan's mother Chris MacNeil, 50 years after the original film, and now director David Gordon Green has revealed that Linda was on-set to help child actresses Lidya Jewett and Olivia Marcum, who are the new victims of Pazuzu in the movie.

Speaking to Total Film magazine, Green said, "She came to set because she was an advisor on the movie because we're dealing with young people, and we want to take them to dangerous places safely. I was really lucky to have her read the script, but she was not interested in a significant role and stepping back into that."

Although Linda does not reprise her role in "The Exorcist: Believer", Regan's possession and exorcism plays a major part in the plot with Leslie Odom Jr.'s character Victor Fielding reaching out to Chris to help save his daughter from the demon.

The official synopsis for "The Exorcist: Believer" reads, "Since the death of his pregnant wife in a Haitian earthquake 12 years ago, Victor Fielding has raised their daughter on his own. But when Angela and her friend Katherine, disappear in the woods, only to return three days later with no memory of what happened to them, it unleashes a chain of events that will force Victor to confront the nadir of evil and, in his terror and desperation, seek out the only person alive who has witnessed anything like it before, Chris MacNeil."

Ahead of the release of "The Exorcist: Believer" on October 6, Blumhouse and Universal have already confirmed that sequel "The Exorcist: Deceiver" will be in cinemas on April 18, 2025.

Green - who directed Blumhouse's recent "Halloween" trilogy - has confirmed that there are already "scripts, outlines, and things like that" two more "Exorcist" films.

You can share this post!
Bira 91, one of the worlds fastest-growing beer brands, and NAO Spirits, the disruptors in the Indian craft gin space with their London Dry Gin  Greater Than, have joined forces to launch a limited release gin-inspired beer  Greater IPA.

The Greater IPA takes its inspiration from the captivating world of gin botanicals infusing Macedonian Juniper, a key element in Greater Thans London Dry gin, giving the IPA a bold and spicy twist. Unlike the usual fruity hops found in IPAs, the hops in this brew have a piney character that complements the unique juniper flavor, creating a balanced mix of piney and spicy notes. The beer will be exclusively available, until stocks last, at Bira 91 Taprooms in Gurugram at the DLF Cyberhub and Bengaluru at Koramangala, starting 14th September 2023, and will continue until stocks last.

Commenting on the launch, Ankur Jain, Founder and CEO, Bira 91 said, We are thrilled to unveil Greater IPA, a Limited Release gin-inspired beer created in collaboration with Greater Than Gin, a crowd-favorite and one of the fastest growing brands in the country. This collaboration reaffirms our commitment to innovation, bringing together two exceptional brands to offer a distinctive and remarkable consumer experience. The Greater IPA marries beers robust character with gins refined subtlety, resulting in an IPA that promises a harmonious and delightful drinking experience for beer and gin enthusiasts alike.

Anand Virmani, Co-founder & CEO, NAO Spirits and Beverages Pvt Ltd commented, Were absolutely delighted about this collaboration with the passionate lot of brewers at Bira 91, the trailblazers behind India's craft beer revolution. As the first Craft Gin in India, Greater Than has naturally taken a lot of heart from Bira 91s success in the country and it made absolute sense to bring our two brands together for something fun. We can't wait for all of you to try the Greater IPA, made with the same juniper berries we use to make our gin.

To celebrate the launch, Bira 91 and Greater Than will offer an exclusive cocktail menu and brewer led tastings. Greater IPA will be exclusively available starting 14th September 2023, at Bira 91's Taproom in Cyberhub, Gurgaon and Koramangala, Bengaluru.
Dentsu Creative India has won the digital creative mandate for two prominent healthcare brands  Shelcal and Unienzyme, which fall under the umbrella of Torrent Pharmaceuticals. The account was won following a multi-agency pitch and will be serviced from the agencys Mumbai office.

As per the mandate, Dentsu Creative India will play a pivotal role in enhancing and expanding the digital presence of these brands by implementing a highly innovative and aggressive creative growth strategy. This partnership marks an exciting milestone for these brands as they make their debut in the OTC (Over-the-Counter) market, presenting a significant opportunity to establish their presence and reach a broader audience.

The collaboration between the agency and the brands goes beyond conventional approaches. The aim is to delve into lesser-known health topics in India, particularly focusing on calcium deficiency and gut health. The shared objective is to develop effective communication and educational campaigns that not only attract new customers but also cultivate stronger brand loyalty among existing ones.

Sahil Shah, President - Digital Experience, Dentsu Creative India, said, With Torrent Pharmaceuticals venturing into the OTC segment with significant plans, we felt it was the right time to partner up and address their digital creative activations. Together, we have embarked on a journey to revolutionize their digital marketing in this waiting to innovate OTC healthcare domain. I am grateful for their trust in Dentsu Creative and confident that we will blend innovation and creativity to craft messages that truly resonate, fostering meaningful connections with audiences.

Manika Juneja, Managing Partner, Dentsu Creative India, added here, Torrent Pharmas digital creative mandate is a step forward in strengthening Dentsu Creatives portfolio within the pharmaceutical category of brands. We are thrilled about this new victory and look forward to a stronger and fruitful partnership with lots of exciting work inspired by Modern Creativity in the near future.
Adgully has been turning the spotlight on the entrepreneurs who fought against all odds to bring their dreams to fruition in our special series  START-UP STARS. We at Adgully wholeheartedly support the Vocal for Local movement and have been featuring numerous local/ homegrown businesses, brands, and Apps in the count.

Uplifters is a skill-based, ed-tech startup with a pay after placement model that aims to uplift Indias students from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities and colleges by providing them with the right skills and training and helping them land a good job.

In conversation with Adgully, Umang Sangal, Founder, Uplifters, talks about the establishment of Uplifters, the aim of giving back to the society by helping students from Tier 2 and 3 cities be job-ready with relevant skills, the challenges in the start-up journey and how they were overcome, and more.

What inspired the founding of your start-up, and what problem did you set out to solve?

I always had a dream to start my own venture from my college days, but circumstances led me to a well-paying job through campus placement. However, in 2022, I finally found an idea that aligned with my values of giving back to the society. Hailing from a small city with limited opportunities and mentorship, I was inspired by my experiences in mentoring students, which led to the creation of Uplifters. Our mission is to uplift the careers of students, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. We officially launched Uplifters Academy Pvt Ltd in 2023 and have already conducted college workshops, initiated a summer internship program, and started Pay-after-Placement batches in Data Science, Software Development, and Digital Marketing in the last three months.

Our mission is to empower Indias untapped and often underestimated talent pool, equipping them for some of the most challenging job opportunities.

We offer distinctive features, including:

Affordable Education: We provide high-quality education at rates that are exceptionally affordable, ensuring that it's accessible to a wide range of students.

We provide high-quality education at rates that are exceptionally affordable, ensuring that it's accessible to a wide range of students. Language Comfort: Our teaching is conducted in "Hinglish," a language that students find comfortable and easy to grasp.

Our teaching is conducted in "Hinglish," a language that students find comfortable and easy to grasp. Industry Readiness: Through our courses and training, we prepare students to be fully prepared for the demands of the job market, making them industry-ready.

Through our courses and training, we prepare students to be fully prepared for the demands of the job market, making them industry-ready. Cost-Efficiency for Businesses: By hiring our job-ready graduates, both larger companies and startups can significantly reduce their training expenses, finding the right personnel at various organisational levels.

Could you provide an overview of your product/ service and its unique features or benefits?

Our mission is to bridge the gap in the tech and business industries by offering comprehensive software development courses such as backend Java developer, full-stack web developer, Python developer, and data science programs, including data scientist, business analyst, and data analyst tracks. Additionally, we provide marketing courses, graphic design programs, and digital marketing training.

Our primary goal is to empower students from Tier 2 and Tier 3 educational institutions with relevant and high-demand skills. We achieve this by delivering top-notch education at highly affordable rates and using a teaching approach that incorporates "Hinglish," a language comfortable for our students.

Through our courses, industry-focused training, and mentorship programs, we aim to significantly enhance students job placement prospects, preparing them effectively for the professional world.

How does your start-up differentiate itself from competitors in the market?

Nowadays, skill-based learning is the most popular and important aspect of the education industry. Uplifters is different from other educational platforms because of its Pay-After-Placement model, which provides skills and training to the students as well as helps in the placements.

In this model, students register in any program by paying minimal upfront fees and pay the rest of the fees after getting placement, which reduces the financial burden on the student.

The uniqueness of our company is that we provide the courses at affordable prices, our classes are in Hinglish, which is more understandable to the students, and there are industry experts and mentors who always guide the students and help them become industry ready.

We offer courses in three different domains, such as Software development courses, Data science courses, and Marketing courses.

What milestones has your company achieved so far, and what are your future growth plans?

In the span of 6 months, we have already interacted with 2,000+ students through our virtual and college workshops. We have already enrolled 100+ students in our course and we will be starting our placement session from this month onwards.

In future, we aim to introduce new courses that have more demand in the industry, like cybersecurity and AI/ML. We are also aiming to go B2B along with B2C. We would like to tie up with some institutes in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities to help students in their placement. We can become their skilling partner with our placement assistance courses.

How has the start-up evolved since its inception, and what challenges have you overcome along the way?

Since its inception, our start-up has evolved from an idea to the establishment of Uplifters Academy, driven by our mission to provide affordable, industry-relevant education to students hailing from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Along this journey, weve confronted and surmounted challenges encompassing research, market dynamics, financial sustainability, operational scaling, partnership cultivation, quality assurance, and effective marketing. Remarkably, within a mere six months, weve successfully enrolled over 100 students, a testament to our commitment to empowering individuals and our adaptability to the evolving educational and job market landscape, all while remaining steadfast in our mission to uplift careers and contribute to our community.

How does your start-up contribute to the industry or community you operate in?

Our start-up makes a meaningful contribution to both the industry and the community. By offering cost-effective, high-quality education in fields such as software development, data science, marketing, and design, we play a pivotal role in bridging the education gap for students hailing from Tier 2 and Tier 3 institutions. We achieve this through our unique approach, teaching in a comfortable language ("Hinglish") and prioritising mentorships and industry training. This not only boosts job placement opportunities, but also fosters diversity in the workforce. In essence, our mission is all about empowering individuals to acquire valuable skills, secure employment, and thrive in their careers. Its a symbiotic relationship, where students receive assistance, companies gain access to pre-trained talent, and, at its core, it is our way of giving back to the society.

What problem does your start-up solve?

We strive to close this gap by providing an incredibly relevant and demanding methodology that offers top-tier job chances to students in Tier 2 and Tier 3 institutions. We will provide education at the most affordable rates and teach students in "Hinglish", which they find comfortable. By properly preparing students through our courses, industry training, and mentorships, we will increase their chances of placement. Larger firms and start-ups would be able to save money on training costs by hiring the right personnel at different organisational levels since our students will be job-ready.

How much funding has the company raised, and from which investors?

The company is bootstrapped and has not raised any external funding from investors.

Who are your target customers, and how are you acquiring them?

Our target audience includes students and employed individuals seeking to enhance their skill sets, as well as women who have taken career breaks and are looking to re-enter the workforce.

We acquire these customers primarily through strategic marketing efforts, with a particular focus on leveraging social media platforms and performance marketing channels.

What are the major challenges the company faces currently?

Major Challenges faced by us are:

User Acquisition: Acquiring a critical mass of users is essential for success. Effective marketing and user acquisition strategies are vital.

Acquiring a critical mass of users is essential for success. Effective marketing and user acquisition strategies are vital. Funding and Sustainability: Being bootstrapped, it is essential to have a good runway and also get sufficient fund at the right time. Securing initial funding and then working toward sustainable revenue streams can be a significant challenge.

Being bootstrapped, it is essential to have a good runway and also get sufficient fund at the right time. Securing initial funding and then working toward sustainable revenue streams can be a significant challenge. Adapting to Educational Trends: Education is an evolving field, and it is necessary to stay updated with the latest trends in industry pedagogy and technology to remain relevant.

What is the background and expertise of the founding team?

Hailing from Shamli, a small town in Uttar Pradesh, I graduated with a degree in Computer Science and Engineering from NIT Allahabad in 2018 and bring along 5 years of valuable experience in the IT industry.

My professional journey kicked off at UBS (Swiss Bank) in Pune, where I served as a Software Engineer for a period of four years. Subsequently, I transitioned to the role of Senior Software Engineer at Airtel Payments Bank, where I worked for a year.

What is the companys growth plan and vision for the future?

Uplifters is committed to advancing the Skill India mission, and our future plans include the introduction of courses aligned with cutting-edge technology trends. These courses will encompass specialised topics such as AI, ML, Cybersecurity, as well as non-technical subjects like Salesforce and Sales. Additionally, we aim to offer financial courses covering areas such as stock market knowledge and financial modeling. To further support students, we aspire to collaborate with educational institutions, facilitating their placement in job roles without imposing any additional financial burdens. It is worth noting that weve already conducted thousands of interactions, underlining our dedication to this mission.

How does the company measure success, and what are its key performance indicators (KPIs)?

I have started this organisation to repay my society and make an impact. The only KPI for me right now is to add value. When I see that our mentorship is adding value to the life and the pay-after-placement model is helping students with less paying capacity, I feel satisfied. This is how to measure success by measuring the value added in the life of the students.
Lowe Lintas, one of Indias leading advertising agencies and the creative AOR for Tide Water Oil, has conceptualised a new brand campaign for Veedol, one of Indias leading lubricant brands. The campaign, launched across media tells a compelling story through 4 distinct film narratives for four automotive segments- bike, car, truck & tractor- bound together by the Veedols promise of trust. The campaign is built on the core idea that a clean heart is a symbol of honesty, transparency, and trust, which are values that distinguish the Veedol brand. This message is encapsulated in the campaign tagline Rakhe Saaf Dil Se.

Brand Veedol has a rich, century old legacy with markets in over 70 countries. Positioned as the Professionals choice, Veedol enjoys high saliency amongst the workshop fraternity worldwide. In India Veedol is respected for its high-quality products for the entire range of vehicles  from 2wheelers to cars to trucks to tractors to latest generation electric vehicles along with an increasing play in the industrial lubricant space.

Arijit Basu, Managing Director, Tide Water Oil says We feel that the time is right to reinforce Veedols standing as one of Indias most respected automotive and industrial lubricant brands of choice for consumers and mechanics alike. This campaign does this beautifully, also weaving in our international standing into the storyline. We believe this campaign will strengthen our brand as we embark on a journey to take Veedol to the next level of growth.

Commenting on the campaign, Sagar Kapoor, Chief Creative Officer, Lowe Lintas says, The new campaign reinforces the brand's commitment to providing high-quality engine oils for all segments of vehicles including Car, Bike, Tractor & Truck. With its focus on keeping engines clean from the inside, Veedol's products are an excellent choice for anyone who wants a long-lasting engine and a hassle-free journey.

The campaign is now live on select offline and online platforms.
Magicrete, Indias frontline producer of AAC Blocks, Construction Chemicals & Precast Construction Solutions, launches a new digital ad campaign Kyunki Naya Ghar Banta Hai Magicrete se. The campaign, featuring four digital ad films, communicating the key benefits of AAC (Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) blocks such as faster construction, high thermal insulation, moisture barrier and durability.

The ad films highlight the paramount features of AAC blocks that can help people build their homes better and faster by using innovative construction technologies. The films are humorous take on mundane challenges that people go through during and after the construction of their new homes. The films showcase various characters interacting and debating whether the house constructed using bricks is new and finishes highlighting the key benefits of alternate method of wall construction using AAC blocks such as:

Saving upto 30% on electricity bills

4x faster construction

Best-in-class sound rating of 44 dB

No Seelan, No Shora

4 hours fire rating

Excellent water barrier

Announcing the campaign, Sourabh Bansal, MD, Magicrete, said, In India, buying a house is considered a major milestone. People invest their hard-earned life savings to make a home of their dreams. But it can become an expensive and regrettable decision if they end up building one with traditional methods that lack efficacy & durability. Understanding the emotions that one associates with building a house, we strive to deliver quality solutions to help create a durable and strong foundation for their home. Through these films, our idea is to raise awareness about the issues people face while building or living in a home. We aim to help them understand alternatives, such as AAC blocks, which not only offer solutions to these problems but are also sustainable.

Curated by Cellar Door Productions, the campaign resonates with the companys motto - enabling Green construction via modern construction technology and highlights the fact that Magicrete offers uncompromising green building materials to ensure that nothing comes in between you and new house.

Talking about the concept, Rishav Rastogi, Director, Cellar Door Productions, said It was quite serendipitous to find a client like Magicrete, with whom our wavelength matched instantly. Both of our teams wanted to make something which hits the right nerve as building a home is a very emotional moment in ones life. A moment of pride. But what if your new home is build the old way? Is it still new? And with Naya Ghar Banta hai Magicrete se, we have tapped into all this. With relatable and fun puns and wordplay, we wanted to convey that a truly new home in these new times is no longer supposed to be made with bricks but with AAC blocks.

AAC blocks in recent years have gained deep penetration in many urban areas and is now becoming walling material of choice with increasing awareness. Magicrete AAC blocks have been used in more than 10 million homes till date across the country including famous landmarks like Reliance Refinery, Lodha World One, Diamond Bourse, Pragati Maidan ITPO complex, Parliament of India, Mumbai Metro. Magicrete is Indias largest producer of AAC Blocks with 3 manufacturing facilities, one each in Gujarat, Haryana and Maharashtra. Backed by top-tier investors such as Motilal Oswal Private Equity and India SME, the companys flagship product AAC Blocks has helped build 10 lacs+ homes using 250 million AAC Blocks, which has saved 60 Lacs+ CBM Soil Erosion, 25 Lacs+ MT Coal, and 2K+ MW Energy. The company currently has over 500 employees.
In a resounding call for change, Radio City, Indias leading FM radio station, culminated an impactful campaign 'Touch Me Not'. Led by Mumbais popular jock RJ Archana, this three-week long endeavor tackles an urgent issue - the safety of women traveling in shared auto-rickshaws within the bustling metropolis. The campaign, with its finger on the city's pulse, aims to both shed light on the hardships faced by women in shared autos and provide a platform for their voices to be heard. And the results were nothing short of remarkable. Countless brave women stepped forward to share their experiences of harassment, finding strength in unity as they found their voices amid adversity. But what truly warmed hearts was the chorus of male supporters who dialed in to commend Radio City and RJ Archana for leading the charge in this critical mission.

To add to it, the city's law enforcement took notice of the Touch Me Not campaign. Joint Commissioner of Law and Order, Satyanarayan Chaudhary, praised the campaign's efforts and spoke about the efficacy of the Nirbhaya squad which has a response time of less than seven minutes for such incidents. He also mentioned that this squad is stationed at every major police station across Mumbai and is often seen on round-ups. In a show of solidarity, celebrities from various walks of life threw their weight behind the 'Touch Me Not' campaign, extending their support and amplifying the message. For three intense weeks, the 'Touch Me Not' campaign captured the imagination of the city, underlining the urgency of addressing the safety concerns of women in shared auto-rickshaws.

Mr. Ashit Kukian, CEO of Radio City, reflected on the campaign's impact, stating, "At Radio City, we've always believed in becoming a voice to address societal issues head-on. The 'Touch Me Not' campaign is a testament to this belief, shedding light on an issue that affects our community deeply. It has not only raised awareness but also ushered in tangible measures to safeguard women in shared autos. Radio, with its far-reaching influence, has the power to inspire positive change, and we remain committed to making our communities safer."

Shashank Rao, Trade Union Leader of Auto Rickshaw, echoed the sentiment of collaboration for safety, saying, We would like to thank Radio City and RJ Archana for launching the Touch Me Not initiative that focuses on the safety of women. This is a serious issue and some strict action should be taken against it. That is the reason we conduct workshops where we train our auto drivers to keep a watch that women passenger travelling in their auto rickshaw dont feel uncomfortable because of any male passenger. I believe if any female goes through such situations then she should do a police complain and bring the matter to notice. We have also written to transport department that all the auto rickshaw stands should be authorized. It has been observed that the incidents of women being touched inappropriately in sharing autos have increased. And it is the time to take action against this, so that the women feel comfortable and they get to travel safely. We will create awareness and also take action against this problem.

Radio City Mumbais RJ Archana who has spearheaded the entire initiative said, As a female traveller in Mumbai for more than 3 decades, I can say that groping, touching inappropriately & discomforting stares are a regular happening in the city. As the instances of this happening in share autos have been on the rise, it was important to start a conversation about the safety of women and magnify the issue to bring a change. Through Radio Citys campaign Touch Me Not, many citizens of Mumbai came forward and shared their unnerving stories on-air. I am truly grateful to all the people who came forward to support this initiative and pledged to bring about a change and STOP harassment against women. Right from Joint Commissioner of Police, Law and Order - Satyanarayan Chaudhary; to Auto & Taxi Union Head - Shashank Rao; as well as Bollywood celebrities Shobhita Dhulipala, Manish Paul, Sushant Divgikar, Shilpa Rao and many others have lauded our Touch Me Not initiative and also pledged to find a joint solution. I strongly urge that each and every woman makes the right to feel safe their topmost priority. Speak up and do what it takes to make everyone understand that inappropriate touching or even staring is NOT NORMAL.

With the Autorickshaw-Taxi Union, Radio City has already begun taking concrete steps to improve women's safety, solidifying their commitment to # and #womensafety. Their Touch Me Not Campaign exemplifies their capacity to address pressing social issues and drive meaningful change in our community. One can call on the helpline numbers 103 and 100 to report any such incident and file a complaint.
VerSe Innovation proudly unveils its groundbreaking month-long initiative, "There For You, a mental health campaign leading up to World Mental Health Awareness Day on 10th October. Uniquely designed, this campaign endeavors to amplify voices of change and support from across the nation, reaching audiences in a plethora of vernacular languages. By bridging gaps and fostering inclusivity, "There For You" is set to be a beacon of change in the realm of mental health.

Harnessing the strengths of its diverse platforms, VerSe Innovation is primed to make significant strides in creating awareness, building thought leadership, nudging behavior change, and

amplifying diverse opinions on social causes. Dailyhunt, India's foremost content aggregator and news ecosystem, offers real-time information to a wide and varied audience. Parallelly, Josh, the nation's premier short video app, taps into the pulse of India's youth, empowering them to voice their concerns and hopes. Complementing this is One India, a multi-media news portal, which boasts an expansive readership spanning India's vast expanse, catering to various linguistic backgrounds and making it easier for organizations to communicate with depth and breadth.

The "There For You" campaign is intricately designed to harness the immense potential of various stakeholders such as civil society and non-profit organisations, private healthcare

systems, social impact funders, and especially Indias youth. By leveraging the comprehensive reach of its platforms, VerSe Innovation aims to mold a resilient nation where mental well-being takes center stage. Over the month, the campaign promises a spectrum of expert panels, influential thought-leadership posts, and grassroots stories, shining a spotlight on the integral relationship between mental health and the daily experiences of individuals.

Central to this campaign is a strategic collaboration with Fortis National Mental Health Program, Fortis Healthcare, AVPN and MASH Project Foundation alongside select trailblazing non-profit organizations.

Fortis National Mental Health Program is a comprehensive multi-city multi-centric mental health program. Besides end-to-end mental health solutions and tele mental health services, Fortis

National Mental Health Program is committed to the cause of community and preventive mental health with a focus on advocacy and skill building. The Fortis 24x7 Helpline is a 24-hour

multi-lingual helpline that provides crisis intervention and mental health support.

AVPN, Asias largest social investors network, is a leading ecosystem builder that is increasing the flow of financial, human, and intellectual capital from Asia and around the world into the

social sector in Asia. They have recently launched the Youth Mental Wellbeing Philanthropic Fund to increase accessibility of youth mental wellbeing services across the region. Their goal is to strengthen and scale transformative impact organizations that are working to address

accessibility to quality, evidence-based mental health services for youth communities in Asia, and to also work with funders to provide non-financial support to grantees through corporate volunteering engagement opportunities.
Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

Bern, 14.09.2023 - A world with adequate and equitable access to water, sanitation and hygiene for all is essential. The FDFA is therefore renewing its budget for the Swiss Water and Sanitation Consortium for 202327 with a total of 12 million francs. The fund helps ensure access to basic sanitation facilities for vulnerable communities in 13 countries throughout Africa and Asia.

Water is overtaking all fuel sources as the world's number one geopolitical resource. Between now and 2030, demand for water is set to increase by more than 50%  amplifying the potential for conflict over who controls this vital resource. Climate change is also heightening geopolitical tensions over access to water and water governance.



Access to drinking water and sanitation as well as knowledge of basic hygiene are two of the most successful and cost-effective measures for reducing infant mortality, avoiding loss of productivity due to disease, and preventing pandemics.



The head of the FDFA, Ignazio Cassis, dedicated his Central Asia visit in July to this priority issue. Switzerland, which acts as a key water reservoir for neighbouring countries, has experience and expertise in this area that are unique. The FDFA's Blue Peace initiative, for example, consists of technical and strategic solutions for dialogue based on promoting peace with a view to ensuring access to water for all. "Our focus is on setting up good water management systems, which is particularly important in cross-border regions. I am very proud that Switzerland is contributing to stability and peace in this way," noted Cassis.



Through the SDC, the FDFA is stepping up its support for the Swiss Water and Sanitation Consortium (SWSC), which is made up of ten Swiss NGOs. One of the SWSC's main objectives is for members to share know-how in order to create innovative approaches, synergies and best practices. This consortium approach increases the impact of each NGO's work, enabling the SWSC to become a crucial stakeholder in water, sanitation and hygiene at international level.



Improving community resilience and education for girls

The SWSC also makes a valuable contribution to the overall goal of the Blue Peace initiative through its work for the world's most vulnerable communities  building sanitation and hygiene facilities and providing access to clean water. It also focuses on health centres and schools, prioritising infection prevention and control (epidemics), teaching basic hygiene practices, and raising awareness of menstrual hygiene. This approach makes it possible to promote access to education for girls while improving a community's resilience to disease and climate change. The SWSC also conducts parallel activities to build the capacities of authorities in charge of water and sanitation and to lobby local governments.



The projects running until the end of the new budget in 2027 will give more than 750,000 people access to drinking water as well as raising Switzerland's profile in the water sector at international level.



The 13 countries where the SWSC works:



 Africa: Benin, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Ghana, Madagascar, Mali, Mozambique, Niger, Sudan

 Asia: Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Nepal



Address for enquiries

FDFA Communication

Federal Palace West Wing

CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland

Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55

E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch

Twitter: @SwissMFA

Publisher

Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html




Emma Coronel, the wife of Mexican Sinaloa cartel boss Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, was released from a California halfway house Wednesday (September 13), over a year before the end of her three-year sentence for her affiliation with her husband's gang.

The 33-year-old former teenage beauty queen born in San Francisco was originally sentenced to 36 months' imprisonment in November 2021 after pleading guilty to drug trafficking and money laundering conspiracy charges related to her husband's cartel.

The US Federal Bureau of Prisons confirmed to the New York Post that Coronel was released from custody but would not disclose further information, the location of the transitional facility she was released from, or where she would go next.

She was initially housed at a federal prison in Texas but moved to the transitional facility in California before being released Wednesday.

Read Also: US Troops to Stay at Southern Border Until Sept. 30

Narco Queen Out of Prison

In addition to her prison sentence, she was also ordered to pay $1.5 million in fines as part of the charges laid out to her upon her arrest in February 2021 at Washington's Dulles International Airport. At the time, it was reported that she voluntarily handed herself to authorities.

Guzman escaped Mexican prisons twice - in 2001 and in 2015 - before he was eventually tracked in New York in 2016.

El Chapo was convicted in 2019 for engaging in a continual criminal enterprise and other counts of distributing tons of cocaine in the US. He is currently serving a life sentence at Colorado's ADX Florence Supermax prison, the most secure facility in the country.

Prior to sentencing, Coronel was accused of assisting her husband's 2015 escape. Recently, Guzman petitioned a judge to let Coronel and their two daughters visit him at the prison.

Related Article: US Court Upholds Conviction of Mexican Drug Cartel Head 'El Chapo,' Rejects Request for New Trial

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The American head of one of Alabamas automakers says he hopes a threatened strike against the Big Three American car makers can be averted before midnight Thursday.

I hope everybody will end their discussions in a good way, Jose Munoz, president and chief operating officer of Hyundai Motor Co. and president and CEO of Hyundai Motors North America, said. No strike is good for anybody.

Forbes is reporting Munoz made the comments during a side discussion following a ribbon-cutting at Hyundais new safety test and investigation lab near Ypsilanti, Mich.

The United Auto Workers is threatening to strike against the Big Three - General Motors, Ford and Stellantis, which builds vehicles under the Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler brands for North America.

The strikes would be targeted to a small number of factories per company. It would be the first time in the unions 80-plus-year history that it struck all three companies at the same time.

Munoz said he is confident Hyundai wont be affected by any disruption in the supply chain, based on the experience of dealing with COVID-caused disruptions.

I think we were one of the companies who did a better job in terms of getting the sourcing of chips and many other critical components, he said. We are, I think, stronger than weve ever been before basically by localizing more, by having alternatives.

The United Auto Workers in Alabama represent members making aircraft and automotive parts in 11 separate locals, but the percentage of workers at its major auto plants has remained low, as Alabama is a right-to-work state.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, union members accounted for 7.2 percent of wage and salary workers in Alabama last year, compared with 5.9 percent in 2021, which was an all-time low. Union membership peaked in 1993, when it averaged 14.7 percent.
The Alabama Board of Education is staying out of the library debate for now.

State officials briefly discussed updating a content challenge policy, but decided to let individual schools continue to handle questions about library content. While some public libraries are facing questions about book collections and presentation, state superintendent Eric Mackey said he hasnt seen an uptick in challenges of school library books.

None of that, that I know of, has bled into our public school libraries, Mackey said.

This summer, several communities have held large and long debates about whether to remove public library books with LGBTQ-positive or sexually explicit content from childrens and young adult sections, whether to take out Pride month displays and whether to change childrens checkout policies, with mixed results. This week, state officials decided to create a list of books with questionable content and circulate the list to individual libraries.

The state Board of Education and Department of Education do not control public libraries anymore. They are funded and operated separately.

Mackey said he believes the states current school library standards are sufficient to handle book challenges.

Every library has to have a challenge policy and procedures in there and let parents know what it is, he said.

The Board was on the verge of adopting new school library standards in January, but decided not to.

At the time, some board members questioned whether there should be a state-mandated process for challenging books, but at Thursdays work session, board members agreed with Mackey that the process should be left to the local schools.

In recent years, only a few Alabama school libraries have seen content challenges, according to AL.com reporting. In 2022, a Shelby County parent successfully got a book about the Black Lives Matter movement removed from a middle school library.

Long-time board member Stephanie Bell said when she has received calls about concerns about a book, she refers the caller back to their childs school.

It seems to have worked on every occasion because I always say call me back if you have any more concerns or if it doesnt work or you get to a point where you dont feel like its been resolved, Bell said, but she hasnt had anyone call her back.

Board Vice President Tracie West said parents that have contacted her about how to challenge books thought the state board was the right place to bring a challenge. They were unaware that the proper place to start a challenge was at the school

Mackey told board members he will send a memo to superintendents statewide reminding them they must have a challenge policy in place.
Get the Ed Chat newsletter: Enter your email for weekly updates about Alabama schools:

The Alabama Board of Education will vote Thursday whether to lower the reading score a third-grader must reach to go on to the fourth grade. That change could make a difference as to whether thousands of third graders move on to the fourth grade.

The Alabama Literacy Act requires third graders to be reading on grade level before being promoted. One measure of that is to reach sufficiency, or grade-level, on the reading portion of the Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program or ACAP.

The reading subtest of the ACAP is the first way a third grader can meet requirements to move on to the fourth grade. Third-graders below that score risk being held back unless they surpass one of the other methods to be promoted or can be exempted from the requirement.

State Superintendent Eric Mackey said he will recommend setting the score lower, at 435, and that the board should revisit that score next summer. The current score of 452 was set in 2021.

Mackey told AL.com the lower numerical score does not mean theyre setting a lower bar. The state adopted more rigorous standards in reading in 2021 which meant what students are tested on had to be updated, too.

Gov. Kay Ivey, who serves as President of the Board of Education, was not present at the August work session where board members discussed the cut score but said she supports Mackeys recommendation on the cut score.

Alabama has adopted a new, more rigorous reading sub-test, and it is important to know this is not a lowering of the standard, but instead, a better alignment with the science of reading, Ivey said. As I have stated strongly, we must fully implement the Alabama Literacy Act. This is an important next step in doing that, and I support the Board adopting the recommended cut score.

The Alabama Committee on Grade-Level Reading, set up to oversee the implementation of the Literacy Act, disagrees. President Shelley Vail-Smith sent an email to Mackey and board members Tuesday asking them to delay the vote on changing the cut score.

Vail-Smith said lowering the cut score is the same as lowering expectations. She said the current cut score of 452 is already too low and students that fall between the recommended 435 and the current score risk being sent to fourth grade without the support they would have received had they been retained.

On spring reading tests, 76% of third graders reached the current cut score.

Mackey said the new cut score of 435 was recommended by a committee of educators and an advisory committee of statisticians and assessment specialists.

Three options for a new third grade cut score were presented to board members during their August work session showing what percentage of third graders failed to reach the score:

A score of 473, the score a committee of educators said shows the student has grade-level reading skills; 32% fell below this score

A score of 454, one standard error below that score; 24% fell below this score, and

A score of 435 that is two standard errors below the score; 17% fell below this score.

Mackey said one or two standard deviations help ensure children who might have just had a bad test day can move forward in school. But school board members said theyre equally concerned about putting a child in fourth grade who isnt reading on grade level.

We will do them a grave injustice by moving them along [to the fourth grade], board member Jackie Zeigler said.

When I look at third grade, this should be our last chance to catch the ones that will not be successful. If theyre not ready at the end of first grade, dont wait till third grade.

Mackey is expected to recommend a cut score of 455 for second grade reading, two standard errors below the recommended 487. The current cut score is 448. On spring 2023 reading tests, 78% of second graders reached the cut score.

Mackey told board members more children are being held back in the first grade. Numbers obtained from the Alabama Department of Education show more are being retained in kindergarten, too.

Retention numbers show the number of children retained in kindergarten, first, second and third grade in 2019 and in 2023:

Board member Marie Manning said schools are likely holding more first graders back because teachers have a better idea of what expectations are for what second graders are supposed to be able to read. Second graders take the ACAP reading test, too.

This is my guess, Manning said. Probably most teachers and administrators are saying lets retain them in first grade instead of waiting. I would think that that will be beneficial in the next couple of years as far as making scores as a third grader.

Related: Which Alabama schools have students at risk of missing reading benchmark, redoing third grade?

Related: Alabama reading scores dipped slightly. See how your school performed.

Related: What to know about new Alabama ACAP reading test results

Updated 7:50 a.m. to correct the percentage of second graders who reached grade level on spring 2023 tests.
Former Birmingham City Schools Superintendent Lisa Herring has been hired as a strategic advisor to the United States Secretary of Education, according to a news release from the U.S. Department of Education.

Herring served as superintendent from 2017 to 2020 before taking the superintendent position in Atlanta Public Schools. Her new role as a consultant and strategic advisor will help shape the departments strategy to engage state and local officials.

I am delighted to have Dr. Lisa Herring join us at the Department of Education, a leader whose decades of experience as a teacher and administrator will be a tremendous asset to the Biden-Harris team, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in a statement.

As strategic advisor, Dr. Herring will draw upon a professional career that has spanned both rural and urban communities and teaching in both public and private schools to deepen our relationships and collaboration with state and local education leaders. Dr. Herring shares our commitment to accelerating academic recovery in our schools and empowering educators to help students of all backgrounds to find their purpose and fulfill their potential. I look forward to working with her to Raise the Bar in education for all students, Cardona said.

In Birmingham, Herring cited the most significant achievements during her tenure as the elevation of a handful of city schools from the states failing schools list, the creation of programs that addressed student mental health and other initiatives to address challenges students face outside the classroom.

I believe weve planted the right seeds to help [BCS students] grow, she told AL.com at the time of her departure from BCS.

Herring left Birmingham to become Atlantas superintendent during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in May 2020. Atlantas Board of Education declined to renew Herrings contract in June. She stepped down in August.

She also previously worked in schools in Kentucky, South Carolina and Pennsylvania.
Authorities have released the name of a teen shot to death inside a McCalla home.

The Jefferson County Coroners Office identified him as Charlie Angelo Jordan. He was 18 and lived in Birmingham.

Deputies were dispatched at 6:45 a.m. Wednesday to a report of a burglary in progress at the house in the 6600 block of Newbridge Cove in the McCalla area. The initial caller reported arriving home to find someone inside the house.

Lt. Joni Money said the initial investigation indicates that the victim was hiding inside the home and discovered by one of the homeowners.

As Jordan began to leave, he was confronted by another resident  an adult male  who was sleeping in a room near the door.

Witnesses told investigators that shots were exchanged between Jordan and the male resident. Both were injured.

Jordan was pronounced dead on the scene at 7:12 a.m.

The male resident was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Money said its possible that the victim knew someone who lived inside the home.
The head of the Alabama Republican Party says it might be time to remove the state and its public libraries from associating with the American Library Association.

John Wahl, chairman of the Alabama GOP, said he does not want to be associated with an organization whose head is an open Marxist, and confirmed that hes requested the Alabama Attorney Generals Office investigate whether the states library board can remove Alabamas affiliation from ALA.

The professional organization has been the leading group pushing back against book bans nationwide.

I think the big question is if there is anything in state law requiring the state board to recognize local libraries based on ALA (affiliation), Wahl said after speaking Thursday during an Eastern Shore Republican Womens luncheon in Fairhope in which libraries and concerns over books at libraries and schools dominated the issues discussed.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, who also spoke at the luncheon, said he was unfamiliar with the request and declined comment.

Marxism focus

Wahl is just the latest in a growing line of conservative lawmakers and activists requesting their states or cities to withdraw from the ALA based largely on the organizations defense of disputed books, many of which have LGBTQ+ or racial themes.

State libraries in Montana, Missouri, and Texas have announced they are leaving ALA with conservative lawmakers in at least nine states demanding similar action.

Part of the reason for the push stems from a tweet by ALA President Emily Drabinski last year in which she called herself a Marxist lesbian.

Marxism by nature is a powerful central government that people are dependent on, said Wahl. The competition (against) that is strong family units, faith in God and local communities.

He added, The question has to be if we need to separate. I dont want to be associated with an organization whose head is an open Marxist.

The ALA, a nonprofit, has denied it has political agenda. It has said it remains a nonpartisan organization.

Gregory Magarian, a law professor at Washington University in St. Louis who followed Missouris departure from the ALA, said that severing the associational tie to the ALA for conservative states makes the libraries more beholden to state government and more vulnerable to state government pressures.

Alongside that motive, I think these state governments want to make libraries into culture war battlegrounds, Magarian said. At a deeper level, I think public libraries, like public education, are anathema to conservative ideology. Conservatives dont like government services, especially to lower income populations. They dont like when people gain value while no one makes a profit. They want conservative managers to control cultural institutions  why wouldnt they want to weaken, or preferably eliminate, public libraries?

Bans, censorship

Indeed, the ALA is caught in the middle of a culture war that has exploded into libraries nationwide over the type of books that are displayed inside youth or children sections. The battles have animated city council and local library board meetings around the state this summer in cities like Prattville, Mobile, Foley, and Fairhope.

Wahl said the movement is not about banning books, saying that Republicans are not about banning anything.

He blamed Democrats for supporting banning books, accusing left-wing politicians and activists for pushing censorship.

Conservatives are not the advocates of censorship, its the left, said Wahl. I will not be boxed into a false narrative. We need to be bold on this.

The ALA has reported that book ban requests were at an all-time high last year at schools and public libraries. More than 1,200 challenges were compiled by the association in 2022, nearly double the record from 2021 and the most since the ALA began keeping data 20 years ago.

Democratic-controlled legislatures have taken a different approach to the debate. In Illinois, Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed on June 12, a first-of-its-kind law that prohibits Illinois public libraries from restricting or banning materials because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval. Violators are ineligible for state funding as of Jan. 1, 2024, when the new law goes into effect.

Wahl said that conservatives are more concerned about children encountering questionable content.

We are talking about what is appropriate, he said. Is the use of taxpayer funding to buy books with sexually explicit content for children appropriate? I say No. We dont want it in the childrens section where innocent children can get a hold of it.

Wahls comments also come one day after the executive board of the Alabama Public Library Service voted on a resolution creating a list of books with content that people might find inappropriate for teenagers and children.

Wahl, who is a member of the board, sponsored the resolution which he called a good first step.

We cannot sweep this under the rug, he said.

South Alabama

Patrick McWilliams, chairman of the Baldwin County Republican Party, speaks during a luncheon hosted by the Eastern Shore Republican Women on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, at the Fairhope Yacht Club in Fairhope, Ala. (John Sharp/jsharp@al.com).

But Wahl admitted that the state board does not have the authority to regulate local libraries. He said the state can provide the list and create a guideline for local libraries to follow.

Related: Book decisions are local, LGBTQ representation needed, says Alabama library service director

Patrick McWilliams, chairman of the Baldwin County Republican Party, said his organizations executive board plans to vote on a resolution Saturday to recommend the Baldwin County Commission provide oversight of the Baldwin County Library Cooperative, which consists of 13 public libraries and one bookmobile.

He said the commission, which consists of all Republicans, has financial oversight of the countys public libraries.

In nearby Mobile County, a group of local conservative activists have hinted that they might challenge up to 30 library books.

Tara McCook, speaking before the Mobile City Council during Tuesdays meeting, struck back, and said efforts to threaten our library are about things that are not even true.

Her comments drew a reaction from two council members who said the Mobile City Council has not wavered in supporting LGBTQ people and causes.

LGBTQ Moibilians are Mobilians, end of story, she said. These are our neighbors, friends, and family members. Every Mobilian  we deserve a community that serves us and institutions that serve us. We do not have to be defined by the lies on social media and cable news and those who do not live here and do not care about us.
A federal judge has temporarily dismissed New Mexico's gun ban.

US District Judge David Urias explained why he granted a temporary restraining order against the firearm restriction imposed by the state's governor.

US Federal Judge Dismisses New Mexico's Gun Ban, But Why?

According to NBC News' latest report, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham issued a gun ban on Friday, September 8. Many gun rights supporters criticized her decision. Now, Urias decided to freeze the 30-day firewarm regulation on Wednesday, September 13.

The US federal judge explained that the gun restrictions in Albuquerque, the largest city of New Mexico, and its surrounding county are against a landmark US Supreme Court ruling. Urias specifically referred to the ruling that gives people the right to carry guns outside their residences for self-defense purposes.

"They just want the right to carry their guns," said the US district judge via Reuters.

Read Also: California District To Pay $2.25 Million Settlement for Victims of Teacher, Who Was Impregnated by Student She Sexually Assaulted

New Mexico Governor's Gun Ban Could Lead to Federal Charges

Andrew C. McCarthy, the former Assistant United States Attorney for New York Southern District, said Grisham should face federal charges.

The ex-prosecutor explained that because the New Mexico governor decided to suspend constitutional gun rights in her state, she should be charged under the same statute used against former POTUS Donald Trump.

McCarthy claimed that Grisham and her subordinates obviously conspired to oppress, intimidate, and threaten Americans in New Mexico in the free exercise of their Second Amendment rights.

But, Grisham defended her decision, saying that gun restriction is necessary to reduce gun violence and illegal drug use in the state. Michelle vowed that she would not be resigned to the status quo. The US official also called on state leaders and law enforcement officials to stand with her to enact the solutions she believes can save Americans' lives.

The New Mexico governor announced the 30-day firearm restriction after the recent shooting incident on September 6, where an 11-year-old boy was killed.

Currently, Albuquerque is considered one of the ten most dangerous US cities. Meanwhile, New Mexico ranks sixth among the US states regarding gun-related deaths, with over 500 people dying annually.

Related Article: New Mexico Sheriff Defies 'Unconstitutional' Gun Ban Despite Governor's Emergency Order

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The executive board of the Alabama Public Library Service Executive Board Wednesday voted to create a list of books with content that people may find inappropriate for teenagers and children.

The proposal, sponsored by Alabama Republican Party chair John Wahl, a member of the board, came after a crowded public comment period. It passed unanimously.

Across the country, libraries have faced challenges to their content. Simultaneously, libraries have withdrawn or discussed withdrawing the American Library Association due to the Associations defense of LGBTQ+ books and comments made by the current president, according to the Associated Press.

More from Alabama Reflector

Last month, challenges to books with rainbow stickers from the mayor prompted a public meeting on books in Ozark.

Under Wahls proposal, people can submit books that they believe have questionable themes to the Public Library Service. The forms will then be provided to local libraries. The libraries themselves will decide what to do with the books.

Wahl said to reporters after the meeting that local libraries are not required to do anything, and the list is only meant to be a resource for libraries and parents.

I dont think that APL has the authority to directly tell a local library you cannot have this book, and so what we want to do is we want to be a good resource, he said.

The board has asked the Alabama attorney generals office to determine the scope of its authority.

Wahl told reporters that the aim is to keep minors from accidentally stumbling onto age-inappropriate content, and his motion does not restrict the ability for teens to check out books from the adult section.

According to the American Library Association, attempts to ban books in 2022 were the highest they have been since they began tracking. Chicago-area libraries have been receiving bomb threats amid conversations around book bans.

A large turnout

The boards Wednesday meeting drew more people than there were chairs to seat them. Some people were sent to an overflow room.

Proponents of restricting book access said that they were not trying to ban books, and they were not targeting the LGBTQ+ community.

Hannah Rees, who has been involved in trying to restrict books in the Prattville Library System through the organization, Clean Up Alabama, spoke in the public comment period. She distributed to board members what she said was a survey of Alabamas libraries regarding books that had been challenged and where they were in the review process.

Rees read aloud a sexually-explicit passage from what she said was the book Tricks by Ellen Hopkins. On Hopkinss website, the book is described as being about five young people who fall into prostitution. The Alabama Reflector has not read Tricks.

Any book that weve brought to your attention is highlighting sexual acts for children and involving gender ideologies for children, she said.

Rees said that the book is currently in the Madison Library. The online card catalog says it is currently in the young adult section of the North Huntsville Branch.

Rep. Susan DuBose, R-Hoover, said that a library in north Shelby County had a display of LGBTQ+ books. She said that the display was in June, which was the busiest time in summer. June is Pride month.

These books all introduce transgender issues to young children, for example, they could choose their sex boy girl or other, that parents may have been wrong about their sex, that their doctor may have been wrong, that sex is based on how they feel, said DuBose, who has sponsored bills to ban trangender athletes from college college and put definitions of gender in state law.

DuBose also spoke about the American Library Association, where Emily Drabinski, who identifies as a Marxist, is currently the president. Drabinski is an associate professor at Queens College Graduate School of Library and Information Studies.

DuBose quoted a 2008 academic article by Drabinski, saying that Drabinski wants to turn libraries into spaces of queerness and difference rather than of democracy and citizenship. The publication, Queering Library Space: Notes Toward a New Geography of the Library, focused on the example of a library board voting to remove some LGBTQ+ books and the spatial layout of libraries. In context, Drabinski wrote about the potential to reorder libraries beyond the traditional Dewey Decimal System and include books that present a multitude of identities and experiences.

The social space of the library changes from that of an ordering machine that subordinates objects in a classification scheme that serves the citizen-making project of democracy, Drabinski wrote. Instead, perhaps we can begin to imagine a spatial practice of the library that would place the queer books at the West Gate branch at the first order of social space.

Kassandra Stevens from Shelby County said that she didnt want to remove books, but she wanted to remove the book display.

McCarthyism was thrown at us from our local library, as we asked simply to remove a display in the childrens section, not ban the books, not burn the books, not remove the books from the library, simply to not choose one ideology over another to promote and focus on for a full month, the month that all the children are coming in, she said.

On the other side, proponents of leaving the books alone said that they wanted the libraries to have freedom.

Matthew Layne, president of the Alabama Library Association, said that libraries should reflect the communities they serve.

LGBTQ+, Black, Brown, Indigenous, immigrant and so many other stories all deserve a home on our library shelves, because they are the stories of our communities, he said.

Layne also spoke about the benefits of the national American Library Association, such as workshops they offer.

When we talk about A.L.A., we are not talking about a sinister cabal, he said. We are talking about our parents, our siblings and our neighbors who chose the profession of librarian to serve their communities.

Michael Cairns, vice-chair of the Ozark board, spoke about his experience in Ozark, and said that moving books in libraries will not make a difference because once a parent signs off on a minor having a library card, they are free to pick out books. He said that he reviews books picked out by his child at the library and at the bookstore.

This is not about personal beliefs, he said. This is about right and wrong. I didnt ask for any of your help to raise any of my children. Im not asking now.

Jim Vickrey, former president of the University of Montevallo, said that he opposed anything related to book and child banning from the libraries. He told the story of when he was a kid, and he read a biography of Ralph Bunche, which he said encouraged him to think more about the morality of segregation. He also referenced To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, which he said was controversial at the time.

Those books were available to me and others because professional librarians of the sort you just heard using appropriate library standards at the time, which still exists, chose and displayed those books, he said.
A Birmingham man was killed in a weekend shooting near a Texas nightclub.

James Sanders, 29, was vacationing in Houston with his girlfriend when the deadly shooting happened about 2:10 a.m. Sunday in Midtown.

Houston patrol officers responded to a shooting call in a parking lot of a business at 2601 San Jacinto Street and found Sanders unresponsive. HPD spokesman John Cannon, and was pronounced dead on the scene.

The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences said Sanders sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the head and body.

Guy Baham, 24, is charged with murder, police announced Wednesday.

Officers learned a disturbance between Sanders and Baham escalated into gunfire.

Baham fired multiple shots at Sanders, striking him. Sanders girlfriend, 40, retrieved a firearm and fired multiple rounds at Baham, who fled the scene in a light-colored Toyota Camry with potential damage from bullet holes.

Officers detained Sanders girlfriend at the scene. She has not been charged.

Investigators learned Baham arrived at an area hospital in a Toyota Camry with several visible bullet holes. He had sustained a gunshot wound.

Baham was treated for his wounds, subsequently charged and booked into jail for his role in the incident, Cannon said.
A Blount County man has been convicted in the 2021 shooting death of his wife.

A jury deliberated 15 minutes before finding Bryan Craig Fox, 54, guilty of murder and unlawful possession of a firearm on Wednesday.

Fox called 911 at 6:06 p.m. on Nov. 21, 2021, and told authorities his wife, 53-year-old Sharon Teal Askew, put her hands on him and he shot her, District Attorney Pamela Casey said in a news release.

Sheriffs deputies arrived at the home to find Askew in front of the couch on the living room floor with a single gunshot wound to the head.

As other officers arrived at the residence, Fox repeatedly said, She put her hands on me and I shot her.

Foxs trial began on Monday.

Casey said prosecutors presented evidence that Fox had dinner at a local restaurant that evening. Less than 10 minutes after arriving at their Moorer Lane home, Fox shot Askew ,who was sitting on the couch.

Fox testified in his own defense, Casey said, and told the jury he walked into the living room to try to talk to his wife when a physical altercation ensued.

According to Fox, he walked up to the couch and his wife attempted to stand. Fox then pushed Askew back onto the couch.

Fox said Askew then reached for the pistol he had holstered in a gun belt around his waist. He told the jury he believed his wife would shoot him if she gained control of his pistol, leaving him no choice but to shoot her to save his own life.

Prosecutors, however, presented photographs of the scene that showed nothing was disturbed or out of place in the area around Askews body, including a TV dinner tray and a Christmas tree.

Evidence was also presented that Fox was engaged in an extra-marital affair.

I am always grateful for the citizens who respond to their jury summonses to participate in this process, Casey said. I appreciate their commitment to listen attentively to the evidence, follow the judges instructions, and to pursue justice for those who have been charged with an offence and those who have been victims of violent crimes as wells as their families.

This case was investigated by sheriffs Lt. Chad Long with the Blount County Sheriffs Department.

A sentencing hearing has been set for Oct. 20, 2023.
A vote Thursday night by the Huntsville city council could make it illegal to hold a phone while driving a vehicle in the Rocket City.

The city ordinance, sponsored by Councilman David Little, would beef up a new state law on using phones while driving with the aim of combatting distracted driving  even while quantifying that issue remains elusive.

Read the full proposed ordinance below

The city said that in traffic accidents, identifying distracted driving as a cause is difficult because it essentially requires an admission by the at-fault driver. Such admissions are rare and other causes are often involved in traffic accidents at the same time.

Little said he has reviewed police reports on traffic accidents in Huntsville  the hotspots for accidents and a list of most common causes: Following too close, failure to yield, improper speed, improper land change, running red lights and stop signs.

You think, How many of these were because of distractions, Little said. Its real hard to track that data because you basically have to have a court order saying I want to look at your cell phone records unless the person that caused the wreck fesses up to say, I was on my phone.

A report on traffic accident causes compiled by the city this week following a request by AL.com appears to confirm Littles point. A city analysis of traffic accidents from 2017-2022 attributed only 0.6 percent of all accidents to distracted by use of electronic communication device. Another category, distracted by use of other electronic device, accounted for another .16 percent of accidents.

Following too close and misjudging stopping distance combined to account for about 27 percent of all accidents  by far the two most cited accident causes in the city analysis.

In fatal and serious accidents, the citys numbers were similar relating to cell phones  the cause of .66 percent of such accidents. Driving under the influence was the most common cause of fatal and serious accidents at 9.11 percent.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,522 people were killed in 2021 by distracted drivers  which includes cell phone use but also includes distractions such as eating or adjusting the stereo or passengers.

For Little, this is a personal issue. He and his family were in a head-on collision in 2008 with a distracted driver who Little said acknowledged being on their phone. Little spent two weeks in the hospital and several more weeks in a wheelchair. Since then, he has worked as an advocate to stop distracted driving and had visions of introducing his ordinance last year when he was running for the council.

He has also lobbied the state legislature to pass a hands-free device law. That finally occurred this year but the law was watered down, Little said, in that it only prohibits holding your phone while their vehicle crosses in or out of a traffic lane without using a turn signal, the vehicle swerves, or the vehicle is otherwise operated in an impaired manner, the bill signed into law said.

Democrats in the legislature opposed a tougher law because they said it could lead to racial profiling while lawmakers also noted that a hands-free device law would not eliminate all distractions for a driver.

Littles proposal is more stringent. Essentially, it prohibits using a phone while driving unless its connected to a Bluetooth system or is on speakerphone mode or any other mechanism that would eliminate handling the phone itself. A first conviction would result in a $100 fine or imprisonment up to 10 days while a second conviction within two years of the first would be a $200 fine or imprisonment up to 30 days.

The new state law, which went into effect in June, calls for a $50 fine on the first offense and a driver can only be charged if stopped for another violation, such as speeding.

The proposal would also beef up Huntsvilles current law on using cell phones while driving  which only outlaws sending or receiving digital message such as emails or text messages. The prohibition also does not allow for police to initiate a traffic stop.

Under Littles proposal, Huntsville police would be authorized to initiate a traffic stop if they see a driver holding their phone. Little said Huntsville police reviewed his proposal and supported it.

They were all for it across the board, he said. They see it all the time. And they probably know it causes lots of wrecks. But they just cant do anything. So I think theyre happy to maybe see the roads become a little safer, too.

If the council votes to approve the ordinance, it will go into effect Jan. 1, 2024.
Crews began dismantling the historic Apollo-era rocket at the Alabama welcome center on Interstate 65 near the Tennessee state line on Thursday, an expected development that begins the final steps of removing a Huntsville-area space travel icon.

The fate of the deteriorating Saturn 1B rocket had long been determined by NASA and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville and crews had removed the top portion of the rocket with cranes as traffic rushed past on the interstate. Alabama state troopers alerted drivers to the construction with a cruiser sitting on the shoulder with its strobe lights flashing.

Two cranes stood next to the rocket with cables attached to lift pieces from where the rocket has stood for more than 40 years.

Workers on a lift inspect the Saturn 1B rocket at the Alabama welcome center near the Tennessee state line Sept. 14, 2023, as dismantling of the rocket gets underway. (Paul Gattis | pgattis@al.com)

According to the rocket center, which has been charged by NASA with dismantling the rocket, the escape tower was removed Wednesday. The rocket center said its expected to take four to five weeks to complete the dismantling of the 168-foot tall rocket.

The engines from the rocket had previously been removed by NASA.

D.H. Griffin is the contractor for the disassembly.

Plans were finalized in August to take down the rocket after a months-long effort to save it. NASA and the rocket center said that after four decades of being exposed to the elements, the rocket was in no condition to be preserved and the cost would be prohibitive.

To replace the rocket, the legislature passed a law earlier this year for a mock-up to be installed at the under-renovation welcome center. The Saturn V rocket that stands outside the rocket center in Huntsville is a mock-up as well.

Dismantling the Saturn 1B rocket, shown here on Sept. 14, 2023, at the Alabama welcome center near the Tennessee state line began this week. (Paul Gattis | pgattis@al.com)

The Saturn 1B is one of only two remaining in the world, according to the rocket center. A rocket center report from 2022 described the rocket as an overlooked workhorse of the Apollo program. Among its tasks was launching Skylab into space.

The rocket, developed at Huntsvilles Marshall Space Flight Center, has been in place at the rest stop since about 1979. It is smaller than the Saturn V rocket, which carried men to the moon in the Apollo program, which is on display inside the rocket center.

Read more about the rocket:
Get the Down in Alabama newsletter: Enter your email to subscribe to the daily Down in Alabama newsletter:

Birthday shooting case

The youngest of the suspects in Aprils mass shooting at a Dadeville birthday party, a 15-year-old, will be tried as an adult, reports AL.coms Carol Robinson.

The 15-year-old is one of six suspects, who range in age from 15 to 20. Theyre all charged with four counts of reckless murder, 24 counts of first-degree assault for penetrating gunshot wounds on victims as young as 14, and one count of third-degree assault for a superficial gunshot wound.

Next up is an Aniahs law hearing over whether the suspects will be held without bond. Then the case will go to the grand jury.

Cue Miami Vice opening theme

If youve seen any flamingos in your neighborhood lately, its probably one of two things: Either your neighbor has outstanding taste in lawn art, or youve seen some actual flamingos that rode in on Hurricane Idalia.

AL.coms William Thornton reports that the big birds have been seen in Hale County, Alabama. NPR has reported sightings as far north as Ohio.

If you havent seen the opening credits for Miami Vice, then you ought to watch Miami Vice. If you have seen the opening credits for Miami Vice, then you know there are flamingos in South Florida.

But these Hurricane Idalia birds are believed to have actually come from Mexico. They may have been on the Yucatan Peninsula or perhaps flying between there and Cuba as the cyclone was spinning up from the Caribbean.

Bill talked to Alabama Audubons Andrew Lydeard, who said if you see a flamingo give it plenty of room, a hundred yards or more. He said theyre obviously out of their habitat so if you see them moving away from you or stopping whatever they were doing, youre too close.

You can get as close as you want to the lawn-art versions, however.

Fancy thriftin

We may not have a Rodeo Drive, but a shopper did pick up a $6,000 Galia Lahav wedding dress at a Birmingham Goodwill store recently, reports AL.coms William Thornton.

Emmali Ousterhoudt said she paid 25 bucks for the dress, not realizing yet what she had.

She told her story in a Tiktok video that now has millions of views. She said she wont be selling the dress and that she might even one day wear it for its intended purpose. Shes not currently engaged.

Goodwill VP of marketing Kathy Taylor said: Every item at Goodwill carries a story waiting to be discovered, and these stories wouldnt be possible without our gracious donors.

Which is true. And a story I want to hear is the one about the former (or almost) bride who dropped off her $6,000 Galia Lahav wedding dress at the Goodwill on Green Springs Highway.

Quoting

Were at the point that I wish the Democratic Party was a stronger minority because it would make the majority better.

Former state legislator Mike Ball, who has endorsed a Democrat for his former seat. An independent himself, Ball explained that I joined the party of Reagan and I left the party of Trump.

More Alabama news

Born on this date

In 1949, guitarist Ed King, who wasnt born in Alabama and didnt play for an Alabama band. But he was the California guy who joined the Florida band Lynyrd Skynyrd and created that iconic lick that opens the song Sweet Home Alabama.

The podcast

The newsletter
A technological advancement is coming to Alabamas college town of Montevallo. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held to welcome a new electric vehicle charging station.

Mayor Rusty Nix hosted a ribbon ceremony Thursday to welcome the first of two locations, across from City Hall.

The city is enthusiastic for what comes next because of this new feature.

We are excited to announce a convenient and safe place for electric vehicle charging in our historic business district for local residents and visitors, Nix said.

Level 2 chargers provide between 3 and 20 kilowatts of power and take about 5 hours to charge an EV battery enough to cover 124 miles, according to Alabamas state electric vehicle initiative.

The Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition grant, sponsored by Alabama Partners for Clean Air, helped finance the construction of the EV charging station.

Village on Valley, a collection of businesses situated at 1205 Ashville Road in Montevallo, will open a second site soon. The University of Montevallo campus already has an EV charging station.

The Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition was established in 2002 as a non-profit organization to work towards a greener future. The U.S. Department of Energy recognized the ACFC as part of its Clean Cities program in 2009.

This national network, in place in more than 100 cities, brings together public and private sector players to develop fuel-economy improvements, idle-reduction strategies, renewable fuels and developing transportation technology.

Drive Electric Alabama encourages the use of electric vehicles throughout the state. These cars have the potential to generate thousands of new jobs, save money and improve everyones quality of life, according to the group.
Lawrence County authorities have one person in custody following the shooting death of a woman Wednesday.

According to the sheriffs office, the incident happened at about 6:30 p.m. at a residence in the 2300 block of County Road 161 in the Hatton Community.

The woman died from a gunshot wound to the head. Her name has not yet been released.

The suspect, who has not been named, is being held at the Lawrence County Sheriffs Office.

The body was transported to the Alabama Forensics Lab for examination.

The State Bureau of Investigations (SBI) and the Moulton Police Department assisted in the investigation.
This story is part of AL.coms Season of Change: 1963 series.

Hundreds of photographs fill the childhood home of Lisa McNair and her sister, Kimberly McNair Brock.

The pictures, shot by the late Chris McNair, show a part of Black life  and glimpses into the civil rights movement  through the lens of one of a few Black professional photographers documenting Birmingham in the 1960s, before and after the bombing at 16th Street Baptist Church that killed his daughter, Denise.

Sign up for the Worth Your Time newsletter: Get the best journalism happening in Alabama delivered straight to your inbox every week.

In one photo, Martin Luther King Jr.s daughter Yolanda is peering into the camera while her fathers immersed in conversation. In another, taken at a dinner hosted by comedian Dick Gregory, Coretta Scott King is laughing so hard that she smudged her makeup. Another shows a mens meeting, in an unknown location, strategizing for freedom.

I love that this is his legacy, said Lisa as she flipped through her fathers photo album at the familys dining room table. I dont think he really knew what his legacy was, he thought it was something else. But this, us, and these images are his legacy.

Theyre history, Kimberly added.

Though McNairs photos were published nationally, on the covers of Jet and Ebony magazine, many of his photos exist only in that album. Many have never been processed or digitized. Others, digitized but rarely seen, show Gov. George Wallace during his Stand in the Schoolhouse Door and Martin Luther King Jr. preaching in Birmingham. They are new angles on historic events.

Dr Martin Luther King speaks at a Civil Rights meeting at 16th Street Baptist Church in 1963 in Birmingham, Alabama. (Photo by Chris McNair/Getty Images)Getty Images

Chris McNairs photography started in a colloquial sense, where he would go to affairs in the Black community, to gathering places in the Black community and he would capture those things, and this is before the loss of his daughter, said Barry McNealy, an archivist at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.

Chris McNairs oldest daughter, Denise, and three other girls  Addie Mae Collins, Carole Robertson and Cynthia Wesley  were murdered on Sept. 15, 1963, when Klansmen planted a bomb under the steps of 16th Street Baptist Church before a Sunday youth program.

After learning his daughter had been killed, Chris McNair returned to the church to snap a photograph of the wreckage  he carried his camera everywhere  before grief overwhelmed him.

A view of police activity outside the bomb damaged 16th Street Baptist Church on September 15, 1963 in Birmingham, Alabama. This is the only photo Chris McNair shot after the bombing of the Church. His only child, Denise McNair was killed in the bombing. (Photo by Chris McNair/Getty Images)Getty Images

McNair would become fundamental in telling the story of the civil rights movement, McNealy said. McNair later served on the Institutes board of directors for several years.

Since he was in the community, and people knew him, he could get access to events where other people might have been questioned, he said. Commissioner McNair was able to go into some doors where other people couldnt go.

Lisa, born a year later, and Kimberly, born five years later, never knew their sister. But through their fathers photographs, theyve found a way to preserve her legacy, too.

Being that we didnt get to meet her, photographs are really the main way we get a chance to know who she is, Lisa said in a recent interview with Reckons Black Joy and AL.com.

This is his legacy

In Birmingham, many knew Chris McNair as a talented wedding and event photographer, who later became a state legislator and county commissioner. Others knew him as their neighborhood milkman growing up.

To Lisa, he was Daddy  a kind-hearted man who was always cracking jokes, doing silly dances and trying his best to keep the family together. Her mother, Maxine McNair, who died in 2022, was a very happy person, too, who knew how to have peace, she said.

They found their joy in us and our antics and teaching us things, sharing things with us, sharing their experiences, she said. Its not that you ever forget about Denise and the other girls, but you know, you live, and you have to go on living and hoping for a better day.

Chris McNair holds his daughter, Denise, in a self-portrait taken around 1954. Denise McNair died in the 1963 Birmingham church bombing. Credit Chris McNair. Getty Images.

He took Lisa and Kimberly under his wing, bringing the young girls along to wedding shoots and teaching them how to get the best shots.

Lisa, who now owns her own photography business, Posh Photography, says she still holds on to many of those lessons.

Youve got to get in there and be part of whats happening so that youve got to get the best picture, she recalled him saying.

Many of Chris McNairs photographs give a sense that he was there in the room when change was happening. He captured close-up moments with icons such as King, Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth, A.G. Gaston and prominent civil rights lawyers that were used by newspapers for decades.

As part of its yearlong commemoration of the civil rights movement of 1963, the City of Birmingham is now displaying a collection of Chris McNairs photographs at city hall this month. The exhibit will run through Sept. 29.

It was important to the City of Birmingham to honor the legacy of the late Chris McNair because he captured a very special part of our history, said Marie Sutton, a spokeswoman for the city. His photographs tell the story of how  60 years ago  local preachers, community leaders, businessmen, and everyday people advocated for equal justice and we are all the beneficiaries.

It wasnt until the early 2000s, however, that the McNair sisters realized the depth of their fathers work.

In his basement, Lisa found collections of photos of Kings funeral that had never been printed. Hed kept countless photos from shoots of Black weddings and Black family portraits, before white clients started to ask for his services. Other boxes contained dozens of slides of the girls and his family that were just fantastic, she said.

As it turned out, he captured a lot of Black life that wasnt being captured by many other people, she said.

The only way were going to heal

Amid those collections are several of Denise. Snapshots of a happy toddler taking her first steps, blowing out the candles on her fourth birthday and playing with the dogs. An iconic black and white portrait, enhanced with a layer of paint and colored pencil.

A portrait of Denise McNair that her father, Chris McNair, shot and colorized with paint and pencils. By Chris McNair. Courtesy of McNair family.

He was always talking about the cast lights, get the cast lights in her eyes, said Lisa, pointing to the detailed specks of white lining her sisters bright brown eyes.

A copy of that original portrait sits on the fireplace of the McNair family home. To the left is a photo of Denise and their cousin Lynn  The two went everywhere together, Lisa said.

The family pass on memories of Denise in other ways, too, Lisa said, recalling jokes about her sisters love for Mama Helen, her mothers cousin who lived a few houses down the street and always gave out snacks and extra food.

In her memoir Letters to Denise, published last year, Lisa writes to her older sister, explaining cable TV, the internet, private school and their parents grief.

My life was much more integrated than her life was, and I wanted to share with the world what that was really like for me, being part of the first generation of African Americans to move freely in this country after segregation, she said.

She also talks to Denise about the ways that she believes the world is reverting backward.

Last April she was snubbed from a chance to speak at a school in Florida, where Gov. Ron DeSantis banned lessons about so-called critical race theory in local schools. Many educators have criticized the legislation, fearing it limits discussions about race and racism in the classroom.

A few days later, Lisa took a framed black and white photo of her sister, wearing white pajamas and holding a blond baby doll, to Alabamas capital, urging lawmakers not to erase Black history  and her familys story.

She hopes the world wont forget Denise. The only way were going to heal, she said, is to tell the truth and accept the truth.

She didnt give up her life, Lisa said. It was taken for hate, senseless hate and racism, just because of the color of her skin. And how she could have been so many things had she had the opportunity to live and be a full-fledged child and human being and American in this country, and things she could have brought to this world and this country. That was all taken away because she was killed for no reason.
Birmingham police are asking for the publics help in providing information that could lead to an arrest in a quadruple shooting last year that left two men dead.

The deadly shooting happened shortly before 9:30 p.m. on Sept. 3, 2022, in Elyton Village. Killed were Jalen Hector Tolbert, 24, and Marquse Yarbrough, 25.

Officers were dispatched to the 100 block of Third Avenue West on a call of multiple people shot in the area. The police were notified by Shot Spotter, the citys gunfire detection system, as well as 911 calls from community members.

Shot Spotter picked up more than 30 rounds fired.

One person was killed, and two others injured when someone unleashed at least two dozen bullets on Birminghams west side Saturday. (Carol Robinson)

Officers arrived on the scene and found Tolbert and Yarbrough lying in the roadway suffering from gunshot wounds. A third adult male was observed inside an apartment suffering from gunshot wounds.

Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service took all three victims to UAB Hospital, where Tolbert and Yarbrough were pronounced dead.

A fourth victim showed up to UAB Hospital via private vehicle with non-life-threatening gunshot injuries.

One of the surviving victims was Tolberts cousin.

Officer Truman Fitzgerald said the investigation shows that multiple suspects exited a vehicle and opened fire on the victims.

Jalen "Hector" Tolbert, 24, was shot to death Sept. 3, 2022, in Birmingham. His family and friends are heartbroken over his death. (Contributed)

Tolbert was a 2016 graduate of Parker High School and had just started a new job at Birmingham Fastener, a steel manufacturer in Ensley. His brother said he had completed the Dannon Project  a non-profit organization that helps unemployed or underemployed at-risk youth and non-violent returning citizens reentering society  to learn his trade and had a bright future.

A reward of up to $5,000 is available through Crime Stoppers.

Anyone with information is asked to call homicide detectives at 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
Most of the fatalities in the flash floods that tore across Libya could have been avoided, according to the United Nations.

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said Thursday, September 14, that 8,000 people in Libya had died, as reported by CNN. Buildings were wiped out by the seven-meter tsunami that smashed the northern coastal city of Derna, with many more remaining missing, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said.

Last week, towns in the North African country were flooded by record-breaking rains, which broke two dams in the country's northeast and flooded the city of Derna.

Relief workers are struggling to deliver critical help amid political divides and debris from the tragedy.

Would've Prevented Many Deaths

Petteri Taalas, secretary-general of the UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO), said in a news conference in Geneva on Thursday: "If there would have been a normally operating meteorological service, they would have issued the warnings ... The emergency management of this would have been able to carry out evacuations of the people, and we would have avoided most of the human casualties," Reuters reported.

Although economic losses are inevitable, she argued that they may have been mitigated with adequate services.

Talaas said the WMO has attempted to communicate with Libyan authorities to improve these systems, but due to the country's precarious security situation, this has been challenging.

Since civil conflict broke out in 2014, Libya has been torn apart politically. The country is now divided between the internationally recognized government in Tripoli and the eastern parliament-backed administration in Benghazi.

After the devastating floods, each has given different estimates of the number of victims. The number of fatalities and missing persons has not been independently confirmed, though.

Also Read: Oil Price Hits 10-Month High After Libya's Catastrophic Flooding Disaster

In Need of More Grave Diggers

After a seven-meter wave slammed the northern coastal city of Derna this week, ICRC's Libya Delegation Director Yann Fridez warned it would take many months, if not years, for residents to recover from the amount of destruction.

"This disaster was violent and brutal. A wave 7 meters high wiped-out buildings and washed infrastructure into the sea. Now family members are missing, dead bodies are washing back up on shore, and homes are destroyed," Fridez said.

As floods engulfed Derna, the ICRC sent aid workers to the city to help families with micro-economic activities. They also announced that they would be sending 6,000 body bags to forensic teams in the eastern city of Benghazi to "ensure dignified treatment of the dead."

The ICRC has noted that the destruction of roadways in flood-affected regions presents a major challenge to relief efforts.

Human rights groups have expressed a dire need for more grave diggers in Derna as they have been unable to keep up with the influx of remains. According to Abu Bakr Al-Rifadi, a local official, "The torrent waters caused the city of Derna to be divided into western and eastern halves," as reported by the Libyan state news agency LANA.

Also Read: Libyan Authorities Deploy Personnel to Battered Regions as Many Reported Dead

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
A coal company owned by the family of West Virginia Governor Jim Justice continues to rack up fines and legal troubles over pollution from its now-closed coking plant in Birmingham.

Environmental groups Black Warrior Riverkeeper and GASP filed a lawsuit Wednesday accusing Bluestone Coke of violating the Clean Water Act from its shuttered facility in north Birmingham.

Meanwhile, the Jefferson County Board of Health said Bluestone Coke now owes an additional $356,000 in penalties and late fees for failure to comply with a 2022 settlement over air pollution violations at the plant. In 2022, Bluestone Coke agreed to pay $925,000 in penalties, the largest fine ever issued by the Jefferson County Board of Health, which regulates air pollution in Birmingham.

The Clean Water Act lawsuit, filed by attorneys from the Southern Environmental Law Center representing the environmental groups, says Bluestone has continually discharged unpermitted pollutants into Five Mile Creek and its tributary.

The facility has been closed since 2021, but the groups say that polluted runoff continues to enter the creek, which eventually enters the Black Warrior River. The groups filed a notice of intent to sue Bluestone in July, as required by the Clean Water Act, but say the polluted discharges have continued.

The groups say they have documented more than 390 violations, including the discharge of pollutants like barium, strontium and E. coli.

We gave Bluestone Coke 60 days to stop their illegal actions, Sarah Stokes, Senior Attorney for the Southern Environmental Law Center, said in a news release.

Because they refuse to keep polluted water from flowing off the property, filing suit is a necessary next step at this point.

Bluestone is the latest owner of the plant near the 35th Avenue Superfund Site in north Birmingham that has been linked to heavily contaminated soil in the neighborhoods of Collegeville, Fairmont and Harriman Park.

For more than 100 years, the plant has operated to create coke, a coal-based fuel used in steelmaking. The coking process, in which coal is baked in super-heated ovens with low oxygen to prevent flames, generates significant air and water emissions requiring significant pollution controls.

The plant was purchased in 2019 by the Justice family but shut down in December 2021 after health officials determined the plant could not meet pollution limits without substantial improvements.

Bluestone representatives did not respond to requests for comment Wednesday on the lawsuit or the status of its Birmingham facility.

Black Warrior Riverkeeper Nelson Brooke said the creek would be an asset to the area if it were not polluted.

Five Mile Creek is a beautiful spring-fed stream that would be regularly enjoyed by locals if it werent for all the pollution discharged by Bluestone Coke, Brooke said.

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin has urged the Board not to renew the plants operating permit.

The U.S. Department of Justice filed suit against numerous companies operated by the Justice family in May, alleging that the companies failed to pay more than $5 million in fines related to its coal mining operations.

A Bluestone representative told AL.com in 2022 that the company was in financial distress, but remains committed to fulfilling its obligations under its Consent Agreement with the JCBH and getting caught up on its civil penalty payments.

The plant is still idle, but the Clean Water Act lawsuit alleges that pollution continues to leak into Five Mile Creek after being shuttered and has continued to discharge pollution including staggering amounts of coal, coke, slag, and their associated sediment into the Unnamed Tributary of Five Mile Creek, the lawsuit states.

GASP, an air quality advocacy group, collected several air samples surrounding the plant in 2019 and 2020 showing high levels of napthalene and benzene, two known or suspected carcinogens. GASP was granted intervenor status in the original complaint against Bluestone and has been a party to the legal proceedings.

We must hold the owners of Bluestone Coke accountable for their track record of putting their bottom line in front of the health and safety of Birmingham families, Jilisa Milton, Deputy Director of GASP said.
A former Talladega County Board of Education employee was arrested Wednesday on rape and child porn-related charges, police said.

Lincoln police arrested the 18-year-old former employee, who was not named, on charges of possession of child pornography, second-degree rape and transmitting obscene material to a child by computer.

The suspect was taken to the Talladega County jail, where they are awaiting bond.

The case remained under investigation Wednesday, police said.

Anyone with information on the allegations was asked to call Lincoln police Investigator Matt Hill at 205-763-4061.
A fourth suspect has been arrested in last months shooting at a Mobile apartment complex that critically wounded a 6-year-old boy, police said Wednesday.

Myasia Pettway, 21, is the fourth person arrested in the Aug. 15 shooting at the Summer Place Apartments on Azalea Road, said Cpl. Katrina Frazier.

At the scene, police found the child inside an apartment, suffering from multiple apparent gunshot wounds.

The 6-year-old boy was transported to a local hospital with what police described at the time as life-threatening injuries. The child was immediately taken into surgery and was listed in critical but stable condition.

In the immediate wake of the shooting, Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine said the attack was not random, but the child was not the target.

Three teens -- Zaire Hughes and Jamayal Williams, both 19, and 18-year-old Deante Jenkins -- were arrested in connection with the shooting.

Hughes was charged with first-degree assault and shooting into an occupied dwelling.

Charges were not released for the other suspects.
The Mobile City Council on Tuesday indicated that it would be willing to redistribute a little more than $55,000 that had been allocated to AltaPointe Health Systems to the Arc of Mobile County to start a day program for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Im here today to advocate for my son, and the 150 plus individuals with intellectual disabilities who lost their community services in March 2020, Thomas Holmes told the council Tuesday. The Arc of Mobile County has now developed plans for a new community day services program.

Holmes serves as board president of the Arc of Mobile County, an advocacy group for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Holmes had previously indicated that the group was looking to expand into providing care services, but this is the first time hes sought out funding. He also said he was hoping to receive an appropriation from the Mobile County Commission, United Way of Southwest Alabama and the Alabama Department of Mental Health.

Holmes told the city council that Arc hopes to begin with 20 individuals but eventually expand.

Councilmember William Carroll was in support before Holmes even spoke. In between the councils pre-conference and regular meeting, Carroll contacted AltaPointes leadership to ask if they would agree to re-allocate some of $600,000 that the health system normally receives. AltaPointe agreed.
The former interim chief financial officer of Montgomery Public Schools pleaded guilty to two ethics charges and two counts of lying to the attorney generals office in connection with bilking the school district out of more than $291,000, Attorney General Steve Marshall announced Wednesday.

Brenda Palmers trial was set to begin Monday until she pleaded guilty to the four counts.

Betraying the publics trust is never acceptable and will not be tolerated in our state, Marshall said in a statement announcing Palmers guilty plea. In this case, Mrs. Palmers brazen corruption and utter disregard for the law was astonishing. My office will continue to identify and prosecute those exploiting the public sector for personal gain.

Because Palmer is a habitual felony offender -- she was previously convicted of first-degree theft of property -- she faces between 10 and 99 years on the two ethics charges and two to 20 years on the lying charges when she is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 3.

Palmer was the interim chief financial officer for Montgomery Public Schools when the fraudulent billing scheme was perpetrated between November 2017 and April 2019.

Walter James, the former vice principal of JAG High School and Palmers accomplice in the scam, pleaded guilty in both state and federal court and is serving a five-year prison sentence.

James submitted fraudulent invoices from nearly a dozen sham companies that purported to provide the school district with books, professional development, and other goods or services.

But both Palmer and James knew that no goods or services were provided to the district.

After James created the fake invoices with Palmers help, Palmer used her position as CFO to ensure she and James were paid without attracting attention.

To avoid detection, Palmer forged at least two employees names on checks and other written instruments and directed employees under her to work overtime to prepare legitimate checks so the fraudulent ones would be less likely to be noticed, according to the attorney general.

Palmer then pulled out the fraudulent checks from the legitimate ones so that James could personally pick them up personally.

That step was necessary because the face of the checks showed addresses for the fake companies that were either non-existent or otherwise undeliverable. After James deposited the MPS checks into his Navy Federal Credit Union account, he paid Palmer with cash in the amounts she demanded, according to text messages between them, Marshalls office said.

When examiners with the Alabama Department of Examiners of Public Accounts began their yearly audit of the MPS system in 2019, they requested supporting documents for many of the fraudulent checks. Palmer was asked to help produce some of those check files. Instead of providing those check files, Palmer shredded them and claimed that she bypassed procedures because she just wanted to get vendors paid.

When confronted by the new CSFO, Palmer resigned, walking away with her pension, which she earned until pleading guilty, Marshall said.

Palmer voluntarily sat down for two interviews with state investigators.

During both interviews, Palmer lied repeatedly to the Marshalls office about her knowledge of the scheme, her role in the scheme, her relationship with James, and virtually every other aspect of the states investigation, Marshalls office said.

Palmer even lied about speaking with James just two weeks prior, according to the attorney general.

Unbeknownst to Palmer, James was cooperating with state and federal authorities and agreed to record a phone call with Palmer. During that call, Palmer told James to not send text messages, to tell authorities that certain addresses for the fraudulent companies used to exist, that he didnt see her when he got the bogus checks, and to put [the crime] on the white boy, referring to an innocent third party who worked in the accounts payable department of MPS.

Marshall said prosecutors will be seeking prison time for Palmer because of the gravity of Palmers crimes, her repeated lies, her attempt to influence James, and her refusal to accept responsibility until the day of trial, when she would have finally had to face a jury that would have heard this evidence and more.

Palmers attorney indicated they will seek a community corrections sentence for their client, which would spare Palmer jail time, according to Marshall.
This is an opinion column

This is the week we all think about 9-11 and what happened that day. We got the tragic news wherever we were, all over the world.

One friend of mine was in Europe on a business trip when the hotel manager told her about the attack and directed her to the tv screen. The broadcast was not in English, but the pictures of the smoking Twin Towers needed no translation.

Another friend was in New York hoping his job interview that morning would go well. He was ready for a change. When his subway suddenly halted before his stop, he and the other confused passengers got off, wondering what was happening. Police officers told them to hurry up and leave the area, no questions asked. They didnt have the answers, anyway.

Another was in her office building in Lower Manhattan, sipping coffee and straightening her desk when she got the call. Leave now! Go home! Get out! And when she did, the streets were full of people running to safety, wherever that might be.

And so the horror of 9-11 made its way into the world, like a bad rumor that everyone hoped was a lie. But it wasnt. I was getting ready for work that morning when my daughter called and told me to turn on the tv to see the terrible thing that had just happenedwas still happening.

Id been to the World Trade Center just once, twenty years before the attack. My friend and I flew from North Carolina to pick up her VW camper she and her husband had shipped over from Germany. Theyd lived in it for a year, traveling around Europe and sleeping in campgrounds. When she saw it being driven off the ship, she wondered if someone else had been living in it, too. It looked a little seasick, greener than its usual hue, and a bit battered.

The clerks at the Trade Center teased us about our southern accents and gave us the keys. Then we were off, driving back home, not knowing the very place wed just stood would be gonevanished by the time our toddler children were in college.

We also couldnt know that tragedy would bring people together in a way that seems rare now, all of us working on the same team without bickeringthe American team. Nobody on that team wanted the people who died to be forgotten. Theyve made sure of it.

The 9-11 Memorial rose out of the concrete, steel, rubble, and dust and stands today to honor the the 2,983 people who were killed that day. Their names are inscribed on a low, bronze wall circling around two reflecting pools. Visitors can leave notes in the crevices between the names. When I visited there, I imagined they were leaving letters saying goodbye, over and over, or descriptions of what has happened in the family since the deceased passed over. Weddings. Births. Graduations. Deaths.

There is a quietness about the place, even though its in the middle of one of the worlds busiest cities. Theres no loud music and nobody is shouting or selling things. The memorial sits on 8 acres of land. It features twin waterfall pools that sit in the footprint where the buildings used to be. The sound of the water is soothing. Its meant to be.

The memorial is called Reflecting Absence. People lowered their voices when they stood in front of the wall and traced the names of the deceased with their fingers. Even the school groups that came on field trips with their teachers stood quietly and listened to the story of the Callery Pear, a tree damaged at Ground Zero and rehabilitated and brought to the Memorial in 2010.

New limbs grow out of the stumps. Each year, the Memorial Committee sends seedlings to communities around the world that have experienced tragedies such as this one.

Ive visited the place just twice. The first time, they were still building the facility. The second time, the wall was complete and the children traced their fingers over the names on it. Then they got back in line.

As a nation, were trying to decide what children should be taught in history classes. Surely they should be taught that people who gave their lives shouldnt be forgotten, and seeds that are planted grow into strong trees.

You may contact Beth Thames at bethmthames@gmail.com
An applicant that sought a medical marijuana license in Alabama filed a defamation suit Wednesday against the state commission that awarded the licenses, claiming the body falsely noted the company included people with a disqualifying criminal history.

Medella, LLC., which unsuccessfully applied for an integrated facility license, claimed the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission plainly and falsely stated that the company failed the commissions evaluation due to criminal conviction history (felony or controlled-substance-related misdemeanor/10 years) and not providing criminal background checks.

Summaries of all the applicants, which included pass/fail notes, were published on the AMCC website when the licenses were awarded Monday.

As of Wednesday, the applicant summary report did not include a note that Medellas bid included people with a disqualifying criminal history, but it did contain a notation that the applicant owners criminal history could not be fully verified due to non-receipt of timely criminal background checks in the manner designated by the commission.

The commission website stated has been revised to delete the [criminal conviction] reference for the impacted applicants. The prior ... reference in the summary report for these applicants should not be construed as evidence of an any criminal background on the part of the applicant, or any individual or other entity associated with the applicant.

The pass/fail items and the scored items are independent of each other, and the evaluators had no access to the pass/fail items or any indication of how an applicant may perform on any pass/fail item, the explanation continued.

Medella said it submitted a full and complete application to the commission, " including all required criminal background investigative reports from the Department of Justice and ALEA in accord with the instructions given by AMCC.

Those reports reflected that no owner, director, board member, or individual with a controlling interest in Plaintiff had a disqualifying criminal history, the company said in its lawsuit filed Wednesday in Montgomery County Circuit Court.

The commission knew with reasonable certainty that each of these comments and statements it published as alleged herein, and otherwise, would be known or made known to the public, and knew the statements were false, or made each of these statements in reckless disregard of its truth or falsity, Medella alleged.










English News Building "small yard, high fence" will eventually backfire on U.S.

Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 14 Septembre 2023



Scientific and technological innovation is a symbol of human progress and should serve the international community. To truly play the role of scientific and technological innovation in promoting the progress of human civilization, all parties must demonstrate a broad vision and a sense of responsibility.

By Zhong Sheng, People's Daily The latest high-end smartphone recently launched by Chinese tech giant Huawei Huawei has been attracting attention at home and abroad It demonstrates that China's technological advancements cannot be hindered by U.S. sanctions.

However, the U.S. side remains stubborn, claiming that "the United States should continue on its course of a 'small yard, high fence' set of technology restrictions."



The United States resorts to all means to suppress China's technological progress, attempting to deprive China of its rights to development. This is a typical act of bullying.



Facts have proven and will continue to prove that America's descending "technological iron curtain" and "small yard, high fence" approach cannot uphold its technological hegemony. Those who disrupt global sci-tech cooperation and undermine industrial and supply chains will ultimately suffer the consequences of their actions.



In recent years, the U.S. government has repeatedly imposed restrictions on China in the name of so-called national security, in an attempt to suppress China in the field of science and technology.



The U.S. side has claimed multiple times that the "small yard, high fence" approach is not aimed at a broader decoupling, and that areas outside the "small yard" will remain open to China. However, its regulatory measures have continued to expand in scope and tighten in severity.



The United States has utilized its national power to enact the so-called "CHIPS and Science Act," set up a semiconductor industry alliance with its allies and the "Chip 4 Alliance," and issued executive orders for foreign investment reviews.



The country has repeatedly escalated its containment and suppression efforts, resulting in the inclusion of over 1,300 Chinese companies, institutions, and individuals on various sanction lists, even targeting Chinese social media applications. The true intention of the United States is to block China's technological advancement and impede China's development through technological decoupling.



The U.S. approach goes against the general trend of open cooperation in science and technology. The country overestimates its own capabilities and underestimates China's determination to achieve technological innovation.



Looking back at history, China's development has always been based on its own strength, from its early development in scientific and defense capabilities, to recent achievements in manned spaceflight, quantum communication, the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System, and chips.



Countless facts have already proven that restrictions and suppression can never stop China's development, but only enhance its determination and ability to achieve self-reliance and technological innovation.



Today, China's independent innovation capabilities have been greatly strengthened, and cutting-edge sci-tech outcomes continue to emerge. New industries and business forms, such as new energy and artificial intelligence, are flourishing.



In the face of blockades and suppression, China does not engage in self-isolation or self-seclusion, but instead strengthens international cooperation in sci-tech innovation in all aspects. It actively integrates into the global innovation network and enhances its own technological innovation capabilities through open cooperation.

Many international observers have pointed out that the countercurrent of decoupling cannot stop China's innovation-driven pace.



Arbitrarily suppressing China's technological development will not make the United States better, but will greatly weaken its global competitiveness.



China boasts the world's largest semiconductor market, accounting for about one-third of global chip sales, which is the result of mutually beneficial cooperation between Chinese and foreign companies.



John Neuffer, president and CEO of the Semiconductor Industry Association, recently said that China is very important to the U.S. semiconductor industry, as it is an important part of the supply chain and a large customer base.



Forcing U.S. companies to stay away from the Chinese market not only harms the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies but also backfires on the United States itself.



According to an estimation by the Boston Consulting Group, U.S. companies could lose 18 percentage points of global share and 37 percent of their revenues, if the U.S. completely bans semiconductor companies from selling to Chinese customers, effectively causing a technology decoupling from China. These drops in revenue would inevitably lead to the loss of 15,000 to 40,000 highly skilled direct jobs in the US semiconductor industry.



An article in the U.S. magazine The National Interest pointed out that tightened restrictions on technology exports to China have reduced the income of U.S. semiconductor companies and jeopardized their research and development budgets.



The United States must accept fair competition if it wants to maintain global leadership in the high-tech industry. It should not use unscrupulous methods to maintain its technological supremacy, deprive other countries of their development rights, or disrupt the global industrial and supply chains for its own interests.



China does not shy away from or fear competition. However, China believes that competition should contribute to mutual promotion and common improvement, and it should be in line with the interests and expectations of both sides and the international community.



China firmly opposes any attempts to contain, suppress, or undermine under the guise of competition. China's development goal is to continuously improve itself and enable the Chinese people to live a happier and better life. No one can deprive the Chinese people of their legitimate right to development.



Scientific and technological innovation is a symbol of human progress and should serve the international community. To truly play the role of scientific and technological innovation in promoting the progress of human civilization, all parties must demonstrate a broad vision and a sense of responsibility.



The U.S. insistence on descending the "technological iron curtain" will only blind itself; its insistence on building "small yard, high fence" will eventually trap itself. China will continue to follow the trend of open cooperation, and steadfastly promote high-level technological self-reliance and self-improvement.



(Zhong Sheng is a pen name often used by People's Daily to express its views on foreign policy and international affairs.)



Dans la meme rubrique : < > Finance Ministers' Meeting Seeks $30 Billion Boost for Water and Sanitation AI Beauty Ranking: The Most Attractive U.S. Presidential Candidates for 2024 Climate dialogue held to explore new opportunities of China-U.S. cooperation on green development Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena)
TikTok opened its Creativity Program Beta, the revamped creator fund, to countries outside the United States. This includes Brazil, France, Germany, Japan, Korea, and the United Kingdom.

Read Also: TikTok's Shop Marketplace Allegedly Full of Cheap Chinese Goods

TikTok's Creativity Program Beta

TikTok initially launched the revamped creator fund last February and has been testing the feature to creators within the United States. The new program is designed to generate more profit to the creators. In addition, real-world opportunities await for them.

The program is opened to creators who are 18 years old and above with at least 10,000 followers. In addition, creators must have attained at least 100,000 views in the last 30 days.

TechCrunch reported that eligible creators can earn up to 20 times the previous offered amount by the Creator Fund if they post high-quality original content that are longer than one minute. This potential allows creators to gain more revenue through their content.

Is TikTok Scraping Creator Fund?

While the Creator Fund still exists for most, TikTok reminded the creators that those who are under the Creativity Program Beta will not be able to revert back to Creator Fund. As of now there is still no clarification if TikTok will scrap the Creator Fund in the long run.

As part of TikTok's suite of monetization tools, the Creativity Program is just one of the many ways that creators can earn money from the platform. Other means include LIVE subscriptions and TikTok Pulse. There are also tips and gift monetizations features. In addition, creators can also post content behind a paywall using the new Series tool.

Related Article: TikTok Prepares to Improve Messaging Features
From time to time, someone asks me for advice on writing. I want to encourage people to write because this is a crucial time in history. As the scourge of censorship takes hold across the West, we do not know whether the platforms of communication available to us today will be around tomorrow. The days of handwritten samizdat may well return, and for this reason, it is important that freethinkers spend time recording their thoughts so that others may learn and do the same.

Writing is good exercise for the brain, and through trial and error, even non-writers will become writers quickly. Most of what I know comes from reading the words of others  which is a testament to the power of writing.

The most important thing to know about writing is this: always write without fear. The word "essay" actually means "an attempt." Our current understanding of the word as a form of written composition comes from the great sixteenth-century writer Michel de Montaigne, who recorded his thoughts in a collection of "attempts" (essays) during the French Renaissance. Writing is not about producing perfection; it is about pursuing perfection.

Michelangelo said, "Every block of stone has a statue inside it and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it." When I sit down to write, I look for that statue and start to chip away at the rock the best I can. I begin with an idea of what perfection might look like. Invariably, I never achieve a perfect result, but sometimes I am a little closer to the ideal in my mind. Everything I write is an "attempt" to reach this ideal.

Writing should be fun. "I only write when inspiration strikes," William Faulkner said before adding, "Fortunately it strikes at nine every morning." Although I have found the early morning hours a particularly rich time to write, I hardly ever write until my head is nearly bursting with ideas. I let thoughts collect and percolate until my brain feels as if it might explode, and only then do I sit down and attempt to sculpt those ideas into something worth saying.

Some of the best advice on writing comes from Kurt Vonnegut's short essay, "How to Write with Style." His rules for great writing include: (1) Find a subject you care about; (2) Do not ramble, though; (3) Keep it simple; (4) Have guts to cut; (5) Sound like yourself; (6) Say what you mean; and (7) Pity the readers.

If we take rule #4 to heart, then I think we could effectively edit Vonnegut's rules into just three: (1) Write with passion; (2) Speak with your own voice; and (3) Keep it concise. The more passionate you are about a subject, the more naturally your own voice will flow. So if you really want to catch a reader's attention, first think about the subjects that most fire you up! Let that energy stir inside you until you feel as if you might pop! Then get those words down on paper. In Gus Van Sant's movie Finding Forrester  inspired by the life of reclusive writer J.D. Salinger  Sean Connery memorably instructs his young protege: "No thinking  that comes later. You must write your first draft with your heart. You rewrite with your head. The first key to writing is...to write, not to think!"

The more honestly you reflect the thoughts in your head, the more convincing you will be to any reader. Sportswriter "Red" Smith was once asked if writing a daily column was a difficult "chore." "Why, no," the wordsmith sardonically replied  "you simply sit down at the typewriter, open your veins, and bleed." If you are angry, write with fury. If you are heartbroken, write with sorrow. If you are filled with joy, write with wit. Take what bubbles in your soul at any given moment, and let those bubbles explode into your writing.

Then, after you have stopped hammering that block of stone in search of the statue in your mind, take a step back and fine-tune your work. No matter how difficult it is (and sometimes it is very difficult), I try hard to keep Vonnegut's fourth and seventh rules at the forefront in my head: have the guts to cut and pity the readers. Sometimes chiseling away a word, sentence, or even an entire paragraph means the difference between a good essay and a great essay. Sometimes I fail in these "attempts" and burden the reader with outrageously convoluted sentence structures anyway. In my defense, perfection is never obtainable.

I once had the fortune of attending a small gathering that included the renowned American writer John Updike. Someone asked him if he had always wanted to be a novelist. He answered that he had always wanted to be a poet. He then speculated that every novelist had first failed at being a poet and then a writer of short stories  before finally turning to the longer format of a novel to express the ideas that eluded him. The notion that Updike was a failed poet or short story writer is laughable, but his observation has always stuck with me. Great writing tends to have a cadence to it. It can be read out loud in a spacious auditorium or whispered with the help of a flashlight inside a dark tent. Rhyme, alliteration, and metaphor transform even the most tedious subjects into lively dances that pull the reader toward the next line. A talented writer such as Updike can string together sentences like "attractive nuisances" that invite a reader to trespass further.

Finally, remember this: good writing is both imitative and autobiographical. Every writer builds from the words and styles of other writers. What we read gives us new tools and perspectives for what we will eventually write. William Shakespeare, the most skillful and imaginative writer of them all, "borrowed" so heavily from other sources that he would be accused of Biden-like plagiarism by today's standards. Still, how he used what he borrowed set his writing apart from and above all others for the last four centuries.

At the same time that we imitate other writers, our best writing is revealingly autobiographical. It is not just the stories we choose to tell readers. Every choice of word reflects a great deal about ourselves. In what part of the world was a writer born? What kinds of people has he met? In what vocations has he spent his time? How might a turn of phrase reveal that writer's age, travels, or natural dialect? No matter how anonymous a writer might choose to be, his sentences tell a good deal of his private story.

That is good. Any writer willing to "open his veins and bleed" is an honest writer. An honest writer will write without fear. A fearless writer usually has something important to say. And when someone is filled with enough passion to pick up a bullhorn and shout the truth, then strangers will often turn an ear to listen.

I encourage you to become a writer, if you are not already. Fight back against the Iron Curtain of censorship now descending all around us by making sure that your thoughts can never be erased. Write with passion and inspire others. It is impossible for the government to eradicate all dissent  so long as all of us insist on having something to say.

Consider this a call to quills  for writers everywhere.

Image via Pixabay.
By now, it is clear that the concerted effort to paint Donald Trump as a criminal has backfired. After four indictments, including the most recent 13-count indictment in Fulton County, Georgia, Pres. Trump holds a commanding lead among prospective Republican primary voters in Iowa and elsewhere. Evidence indicates that Trumps criminal indictments strengthen, rather than shrink, his poll numbers. Enraged by Trumps rising popularity, his political opponents are now looking to keep his name off the ballot entirely. Already, this effort has gained momentum in Michigan, New Hampshire, and Arizona. These states, egged on by elite law professors, have turned the 14th Amendment, which was previously used to prevent ex-Confederates from seeking office after the Civil War, into an improvised legal weapon designed to bar the former president from reclaiming office after his actions in the weeks following the 2020 presidential election.

Although this legal effort can be seen as politics at its worst and as an endeavor to undermine elections and our democracy, Trumps political and legal opponents -- both liberal and conservative -- have endorsed the claim that the Constitution stands between Trump and the White House. Even though such an effort is likely to backfire, Trumps opponents -- most prominently, Professors William Baude and Michael Stokes Paulsen -- assert that the Fourteenth Amendment forbids holding office by former office holders who have participated in insurrection or rebellion. Strikingly, they claim that Section Three of the 14th Amendment bars former President Trump from office because of his alleged participation in the attempted overthrow of the 2020 presidential election results.

Neither evidence nor precedent supports this idea. Moreover, it is clear that special counsel Jack Smith declined to charge Trump with insurrection or rebellion. Nevertheless, blinded by Trump Derangement Syndrome and demanding that the people submit to their analysis the way snakes are drawn irresistibly to open fire, the professors support the tyranny of the few rather than democracy favored by the people.

Trumps adversaries contend that secretaries of State may not list on their election ballots as candidates anyone who is not eligible to hold presidential office despite the language of Article II of the Constitution. Article II, Section 1, Clause 5 of the United States Constitution states: No Person except a natural born Citizen, or a Citizen of the United States, at the time of the Adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the Office of President; neither shall any Person be eligible to that Office who shall not have attained to the Age of thirty-five Years, and been fourteen Years a Resident within the United States.

Against this language, Trumps opponents argue that Article Three of the 14th Amendment remains in legal force and has real-world consequences. Article Three states: No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice-President, or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any State, who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any State legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any State, to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may, by a vote of two-thirds of each House, remove such disability.

Pursuing an act of pure political desperation that inevitably leads to the further erosion of trust, Trumps opponents admit that Section Three was designed to address a particular situation: the acute problems arising after the Civil War from the attempt by Southern states to secede from the republic. After the Civil War, Southern states sent insurrectionists to Washington, D. C. to serve in Congress. This prompted Congress to propose Section Three of the 14th Amendment, disqualifying former Confederates from federal and state office. While Trumps hectoring opponents claim he should be disqualified without so much as a trial, it is equally plain that his opponents believe he should be disqualified without considering the Amnesty acts passed by Congress in 1872 and 1893, which nullified the effect of the Constitutions Disqualification Clause for citizens who would otherwise be disqualified under Section Three. At the same time, Americans have noticed that Hillary Clinton, as recently as 2019, has asserted that she won the 2016 presidential election. Her contention never prompted a 14th Amendment effort to bar her from seeking the presidency.

Nonetheless, Professor Steven Calabresi asserts that all that is necessary to disqualify Donald Trump is to refer to Websters 1828 Dictionary of American English. The dictionary defines insurrection as a rising against civil or political authority, the open and active opposition of a number of persons to the execution of a law in a city or state In other words, Calabresi and his fellows assert that Section Three of the 14th Amendment is self-executing and, therefore, no trial is necessary because this select group has already found Donald Trump guilty as charged.

Nonetheless, all Americans should remain skeptical of this analysis, which refuses to countenance any possibility that Trump truly believed he won the 2020 election. Accordingly, he took action to defend a belief that many Americans share. The dangerous refusal to allow American voters to have the last word on former President Trumps fitness for office suggests that the approach favored by legal and political elites is so contestable that it demands that we pretend that fashionable performance art is a substitute for sound constitutional analysis. Equally clear, this effort to bar voters from exercising their judgment regarding the leading Republican candidate in 2024 indicates that tyranny is at the heart of the modern experience as more and more political and legal elites seek to twist the words of the Constitution to save democracy from Donald Trump.

Harry G. Hutchison is a Senior Lecturing Fellow at Regent University. His latest book is Requiem for Reality: Critical Race Theocrats and Social Justice Dystopia.

Image: Ron Cogswell
We have heard from medical authorities like the CDC, FDA, NIH, and HHS that Covid mRNA vaccines are safe and effective; yet there are others explaining that they are very dangerous insofar as they have produced cardiac complication issues like myocarditis, pericarditis, and myocardial infarction. Weve been told that they are safe for children; but others say that they destroy young immune systems. Whats worse, weve learned that some physicians, scientists, and directors of huge health organizations knew of negative consequences attached to their proposals well in advance of their implementation.

The list of contradictions related to things like vaccines, injuries, deaths, and global welfare is long indeed. But for the hard-working person who prefers to spend more time tending to his or her work and family, and who is not directly involved with these wretched entanglements, there is little on which to rely. One of the things appealed to in times of such cognitive dissonance is the belief that such wicked intention and horrible malevolence lies outside of reality.

Unfortunately, not only can such beliefs lead to personal and social harm, but its also just one aspect of how tyrants get away with what they do.

In the 1989 film Music Box, a Hungarian immigrant named Michael Laszlo stands accused of war crimes whereby he sadistically murdered, raped, and tortured countless Hungarian Jews, Roma, and gentiles as the dreaded Mishka. His daughter and personal lawyer in the case, Ann Talbot, naturally doesnt believe any of it. Laszlo claims that he is being framed by the Hungarian Communist party and secret police.

But Ann ultimately learns the truth after the judge dismisses the prosecutions case. Steeped in sorrow and livid with anger, she tells him that she never wants to see him again and neither will her son. In response, Laszlo defiantly and assuredly tells her, Mikey is not going to believe you. Nobody is going to believe you. Theyre going to say you are crazy.

Laszlo manages to hide behind the facade of being a good grandpapa who has supplied love, attention, and security to his grandson. But therein lies the context within which the tyrant manages to deceive, misguide, and evade justice.

In our world today, how can it be that those who hold lofty titles related to health and societal betterment be so careless, thoughtless, sinister, ruthless, or cruel? Many would agree that most people simply do not behave like criminals. Of course, there are some. But they usually are not individuals we would expect to behave so with their multiple degrees and numerous accolades, endowments and fancy titles. Yet, upon closer inspection, we find it is precisely such individuals and their links to powerful institutions like medical bureaucracies, medical associations, medical boards, international agencies, along with the help of the media, who are behind such painful distributions of malice. Something very serious is going on here.

Contradictions and malintent abound. For instance, the narrative was that no one is safe until everyone is vaccinated. But the lethality of the virus is 1000 times less in the young than in the elderly with multiple comorbidities. There is also evidence of fraud related to clinical trials and data fraud with respect to non-covid mortality rates when comparing the vaccinated and unvaccinated (at 02:45). Statisticians have exposed how data fraud has also hidden the toxicity of the vaccines. Also, it was known early on that the PCR test was an inappropriate tool to detect any Covid threat but Tony Fauci, the CDC, FDA, NIH, and the WHO all promoted it. Known and effective treatments like HCQ and Ivermectin were denounced as inviable treatments. And just recently, Japanese scientists found that Covid-19 and all of the variants are laboratory creations. The list goes on.

The tyrantwhether due to psychopathy, sociopathology, the obsessive need for control of others, or the wicked interplay of all of the abovemanages to continue to press on and even get away with such actions due to a web of interrelated factors. Certainly, the imposition of immobilizing fear, in many of its forms, and the complicity of mainstream media keeping the broad populace ignorant and out of touch play a strong influential role. But so too does the quiet reliance upon the outrageousness and disbelief of the notion that such evil acts have taken place, or are even possible to take place. In fact, it is precisely from such assumptions that the expression conspiracy theory gets its force. It was cooked up after the JFK assassination to quell the voices of disbelief. It suggests that the opposing view is ridiculous, exaggerated, and unrealistic, and that the goodness of persons or agencies attacked remain sound. Therefore, the answer was NO the protective and good CIA had nothing to do with Kennedys assassination; it was Oswalds bullets, nothing more.

The tyrant, medical or otherwise, obviously has his weapons. But so do we.

Those who seek control and great power over the population are not going to admit that they have done wrong as it would impede their grand agenda. But they must be held accountable if we are to have any peace. And underlying accountability are truth and courage, which remain the dagger and shield against tyranny. To avoid truth or to reconcile without it is to collude with the wrong. To enact the courage to journey with truth is to protect and advance what we have achieved, the loss of which is sure to pass without itnot to mention our personal freedom. Our goodness is consistent with fighting. There is no other way.

Of course, our weapons come with costs like the fear of retribution, loss of our jobs, and the fear of existing as some contemptible outcast. But living with the lie or going along to get along with what we know is morally repugnant also has the injurious effect of weakening us in the long-run, as rejecting the necessary courage may surface again, causing deeper wounds. Aleksandr Solzhenitsyns reminder in his essay, Live Not By Lies, is quite appropriate: Lies are like parasites. They can only survive when attached to a person.

Near the end of the film and after the judges dismissal of the case, Ann manages to retrieve a pawned itema music boxat the suggestion of the sister of a military associate of her father. Alone in her car it plays a pretty tune upon opening the box. But it does something else. Slowly and eerily it unscrolls black and white photographs of sadistic crimes at the hands of the fascist Iron Cross commander, Michael Laszlothe dreaded MishkaAnns father. Ann undergoes the deep, painful anguish one can easily understand upon witnessing such evidence. However, she ultimately does the right thing and mails the photographs and negatives, the truth, to the prosecuting attorney. We can assume that this was the beginning of the end for Mishka.

For us, there has been and will continue to be terrible news in the form of revealed actions and intentions of medical tyrants, medical bureaucracies and international agencies, especially during what is probably the most important and determining coming election in U.S. history.

What will we believe? How will we respond?

Victor Fernandez is a former Logic/Philosophy of Science adjunct and retired math teacher.

Image: Free image, Pixabay license, no attribution required.
Of all the falsehoods that have been mythologized regarding Israel and Palestine, none has been more pervasive and damaging than the claim that Israel constitutes Occupied Palestine.

Why? Because this claim underlies all other Palestinian claims of being the legitimate and persecuted inhabitants of Israel. Take away this keystone myth, and Palestinians lose all other claims of Israeli/Jewish victimhood and justifications of decades of violence propagated against Jews, Arabs, and Europeans.

These pernicious claims of Palestinian originalism have been promulgated since Israels founding by a range of bad actors, including radical Arab countries, the Soviets, and European and American Progressivesnot to mention the Palestinians themselves. Ask your average American or European why Palestinians deserve their own country, and one is likely to be told, because they were there first, and they were displaced by European Jews. Wrong!

Image: The Western Wall from the Second Temple era by DGtal. CC BY-SA 4.0.

What is Palestine?

Definitions of Palestine and Palestinian have always been fungible. Technically, Palestine refers to a historically amorphous area that encompassed Israel, Lebanon, parts of Syria, parts of Egypt, and parts of Arabia. It was the location of multiple migrations by many tribes over millennia. The area was part of the Mamluk Egyptian Empire from the mid-1200s until 1516 when it was captured by and integrated into Ottoman Turkish Empire by Sultan Bayezid II. Modern Palestine, in the 19th-century, referred to the part of the Ottoman Empire encompassed by modern-day Israel (East of the Jordan River) and Trans Jordan (West of the Jordan River).

This area remained part of Ottoman Turkey until the Turks were defeated in World War I, and the British took effective control of both Palestine and Trans-Jordan in 1923 with the goal of eventually ceding independence to its inhabitants. Earlier, in 1917 (during WWI), the British had committed themselves to partitioning the area between Jewish and Arab inhabitants in the area under the Balfour Agreement.

Jews and Palestinians in Palestine

Not all Jews left the area during the diaspora of the Roman era; many remained in the area and drifted back to Jerusalem. More Jews arrived after Ottoman Sultan Bayezid II turned the Ottoman Empire into a refuge for Jews expelled from Spain and Portugal during the 16th-century Inquisition-mandated expulsions.

Over time, more Jews migrated into Palestine, especially Jerusalem. Although the area was predominantly Arab (Druze and Bedouin) and Turk during this period, the 1880 Ottoman census tallied 275,000 people in a land that Mark Twain, in his 1867 travel memoirs, described as desolate and barren. Of this total, about 10% were Jewish, mostly concentrated in Jerusalem. Jews continued to migrate to Palestine, purchasing land from Turkish and Arab landowners.

By 1900, Jews comprised the largest ethnic segment of Jerusalems population. Also by the early 1900s, European Jews began to arrive into the area as part of Zionist-inspired Aliyah migrations. Just before Israels War of Independence in 1948, the Palestinian mandates population was about 1.3 million people, of which 30% were Jewish, but after Palestinians out-migrated the area upon partition (confident that the Arab armies would finish off the Jews), the population fell to 800,000, 82% of which was Jewish. This marked the beginning of Israel.

So, what about the Palestinians? They initially claimed to be the descendants of the regions Biblical-era Canaanite and Jebusite tribes. However, the Canaanites and Jebusites were already spoken for: they were the Phoenicians who settled neighboring Lebanon (ask a Lebanese Christian today whether the Lebanese are Arabs, and you risk a rather impolite response). The other Arabs in the area were primarily Druze and Bedouin, both of whom inhabit Israel today and count themselves as loyal Israeli citizens.

The Palestinians migrated to Palestine during the 19th Century at about the same time as the Jews, some coming from Syria but most immigrating from Egypt. Most of the Palestinians migrated into Trans Jordan (currently Jordan), where they make up the bulk (70%-plus) of todays population in a country ruled by a Hashemite Bedouin minority. Demographically speaking, Jordan could be called a Palestinian nation.

Sometimes, the mask slips, and Palestinians will openly confess their Egyptian origins. Yasser Arafatthe Palestinian leader, Soviet tool, and master terroristwould brag to fellow Palestinians about his Egyptian birthright. Then there are examples such as this:

Who are the Palestinians? We have many families called al-Masri, whose roots are Egyptian! They may be from Alexandria, from Cairo, from Dumietta, from the north, from Aswan, from Upper Egypt. We are Egyptians; we are Arabs. We are Muslims. We are part of you. Egyptians! Personally, half my family is Egyptian  and the other half are Saudis. --- Hamas Minister of the Interior and National Security, Fathi Hammad, March 23, 2012.

Hamas, need it be said, is the terrorist organization that rules Gaza today.

Word Games

International definitions of the term Palestinian have deliberately been muddled for political reasons: in todays political-speak, a Jordanian Palestinian only refers to those Palestinians who fled to Jordan after Israels 1948 War of Independence victory, not to those who resided there previously and constitute Jordans majority population today. At that time, Jordan controlled Israels West Bank. Jordan subsequently lost the West Bank to Israel in the 1967 Six-Day War, a war launched by Syria, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt with the goal of destroying Israel. Israel won again.

The 300,000 Palestinians who live in the West Bank today live in the only part of Israel that could arguably be labeled occupied, but only as occupied Jordan (the formerly Syrian Golan Heights are a different story). It is ruled by the Palestinian National Authority, a viciously corrupt police-state entity that depends upon Israel for its economic survival while simultaneously offering bounties on dead Jewish babies.

As for Palestinian Gaza, it was part of Egypt until Israel captured it in the Six-Day War. Gaza was given independence from Israeli occupation as part of the 1997 Oslo Accords, and the last Israelis evacuated Gaza in 2005. The 780,000 Palestinians living in Gaza, renowned for their industriousness, entrepreneurship, and high level of education, could have turned Gaza into another Singapore-type city-state on the Med. Instead, they opted to turn it into a terrorist state and rocket platform from which to attack Israel. Whatever. Gaza was never occupied Palestine but occupied Egypt.

From Egyptian Mamluks to Ottoman Turks to the British Mandate to modern-day Israel, there has never been an original Palestinian population within the boundaries of Israel, nor has there ever been an original Palestinian people, nor has there ever been a Palestinian nation. Palestinians today could reasonably claim that they had similar claims to the land as did the Jews by virtue of their 19th-century migrations (ignoring the Jews 3,000-year continuous residence), but those Palestinian claims were recognized by the original partition of the British Mandate into Israel and Palestine at the end of 1947. The Palestinians, though, werent satisfied: with the help of Arab armies, the Palestinians opted to try and grab it alland lost. The Palestinians lost again in the 1967 Six-Day War.

In this authors humble opinion, Palestinian demands for nationhood should stand pretty much at the very back of a long line of similar claimants worldwide by virtue of their undying commitment to the destruction of Israel and Jews, whose economic assistance and basic humanitarian patience they depend upon for their existence today.

Understandably, many (most?) Palestinians dont want war with Israel but only want to live in peace. However, they arent the ones running things. Until that situation changes, there are no legitimate claims to statehood. Contrary to popular mythology, they were never there first, and there is no such place as occupied Palestine. The lie of Palestinian originalism serves only the interests of Palestinian terrorists, international and American Progressives, and other anti-Semites. Its a lie that needs to be called outevery time!

Danny Lemieux (a pseudonym) is an American writer living in Virginia. He would like his readers to know that, while he admires Israel, he is neither Jewish nor Israeli.
Judge Tanya Chutkan of the D.C. Federal District Court has ruled that the trial there against Trump will begin March 4, 2024. Many have already commented on how badly that will impact candidate Trump subjectively, given the electoral calendar's Super Tuesday primaries the next day. Attention should also be directed to how Democrat "justice" is being imposed on defendant Trump in objective terms.

Let's review the math.

When March 4 rolls around, the prosecution will have had about 38 months to prepare its case since the events of January 6, 2021. The Trump defense team will have had a little over six months since indictment. That is a disparity of over six to one, advantage offense.

There is more. Time alone is not the only factor affecting the opportunity for adequate trial preparation. There is also the matter of resources. Here the government enjoys a huge advantage. No matter how much in the way of resources candidate Trump is forced to divert from his campaign to the defense of defendant Trump, the government's resources in terms of manpower and funding will still be orders of magnitude greater. Even if we consider only one order of magnitude in the calculus, that converts to a discrepancy in resource months to over sixty to one favoring Democrat "justice."

Then there is the fact of prior preparation. The prosecution has already had a major portion of its pre-trial discovery accomplished in terms of witness interviews, document gathering, and video analysis (and splicing) by the unprecedented January 6 Madame Speaker Nancy Pelosi's Selected Committee. Since that committee repeatedly denied Republicans due process, there was no opportunity for Trump or his supporters to develop any evidence. In terms of that extensive prior trial prep, therefore, the advantage to the Democrat prosecution is literally infinite.

But wait -- what about focus? All the time, resources and prep are attenuated in effectiveness if one side or the other has a serious disadvantage in distractions. The D.C. offense can concentrate solely on that trial. Meanwhile defendant Trump has to pay attention to: 1) 87 other counts brought against him by Democrats in three other courts, and 2) all the while trying to campaign. Leaving the campaigning to one side and using the count of counts as a proxy for distraction results in a 91 to 4 ratio, or over 22 to 1 against Trump.

The Trump lawyers asked for a trial date of April, 2026. The prosecution asked for January, 2024. That is a difference of 27 months. By choosing March 4 next year, the trial judge "split the difference" in a revealing way, giving the offense 25 of the 27, versus two for the defense, or a ratio of over twelve to one.

At the time of the ruling, the government already had 32 months to prepare. With none of the advantages of resources and the Pelosi-aided selected trial prep, the Trump team asked for 31 months. Even so, in order to wedge the trial into a crucial phase of the 2024 campaign, the trial judge shortened the defense request from 31 down to eight months, a decrease to some 25 percent of the time that the government had already had.

Yet to be determined is how the trial judge will rule on future motions. Hopefully her inauspicious start will not be indicative of her future decisions, but it may well be. We the People should pay close attention to this aspect of Democrat "justice" as it unfolds. Particular concern should be directed to how she reacts when defense discovery requests are either stonewalled or slow-walked by the prosecution, whatever the excuses offered may be. Against such cynical rationales as "public safety," "relevance," "burdensomeness," or "National Security" must be placed the mathematically objective fact that every day of delay shortens the already narrow window ordered by the court for the defense to prepare in a very complex case.

Then there is the jury pool. The electorate in D.C voted about 90 percent against Trump, so in terms of jury selection, the math is nine to one against the defendant.

So far, the math discussed above relates to factors imposed by the weaponized government. There is also the contribution of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), primarily the media. If the past is any guide to what we are likely to witness, the bias stacked against defendant (and candidate) Trump will be at least a ten to one.

To summarize just these objective factors among the many that could be considered, here is what is already unfolding in terms of offensive versus defensive mathematical advantage:

1) as to time, over 6 to one.

2) as to resource months, over 60 to one.

3) as to prior preparation, literally infinite.

4) as to focus, over 22 to one.

5) as to the trial judge's start date ruling, a "split the difference" of over 12 to one.

6) as to future trial judge orders, to be determined.

7) as to jury pool, 9 to one.

8) as to NGO involvement, at least 10 to one.

There is a silver lining in these types of objective discrepancies, however, The American People will be able to see just how capable a man Trump truly is. As he energetically masters so many Democratically-hurled "balls in the air" all at once, We the People will be able to draw a stark subjective contrast: just how competent would a candidate/defendant Biden be if faced with the same sort of circumstances?

When Judge Chutkan made her trial date ruling, she piously intoned: "My primary concern here is the interest of justice." It would have been more accurate for her to have cited her mathematically revealed concern for "Democrat jJustice'."

Hopefully the Trump defense team can succeed in getting the March 4 trial date moved back by an interlocutory appeal. If they do not, however, envision what we will behold in March as Citizen Trump stands in the dock of the D.C. Court of Public Safety. In symbolic terms he will resemble the famous statue of Nathan Hale about to be hanged. For there he will stand, facing Democrat "justice," figuratively with shackled feet, hands tied behind his back and, in all probability unlike Hale, with at least one gag order stuffed in his mouth.

The author is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Yale, was a National Foundation Fellow at MIT, graduated in the same Yale Law School class as Bill and Hillary Clinton, and clerked after graduation for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit.

Image: PxFuel
Suppose the world were in the grip of an Armageddon-type crisis, with the finest scientific minds from around the world working at a feverish pitch in an international collaborative effort to find a solution  so much so that medical and scientific journals were dedicated to keeping pace with the latest developments. No, I'm not talking about climate change. I'm talking about eugenics, the early 20th-century belief that there are too many of the wrong people in the world. One hundred years on, though, eugenics has fused with climate change for the perfect anti-human storm.

The founder of Planned Parenthood, Margaret Sanger, a progressive, was one of the most strident supporters of this new theory. Financial support poured in from the Ford Foundation, the Rockefeller Foundation, and the Harriman fortune. (These funds all still support progressive causes.) In 1916, Sanger established the first "birth control" clinic.

Back in that era, it was commonly believed that "the best" human beings (white, Anglo-Saxon Protestants) were not having as many children as "inferior ones," such the immigrants from Eastern Europe and Asia, blacks, degenerates, etc. Sanger spoke of the burden of carrying the "dead weight of human waste." President Theodore Roosevelt, the first progressive presidential candidate, declared that "society has no business to permit degenerates to reproduce their kind."

And how was society to prevent "the inferiors" from reproducing? Simple: Sterilize them. Eventually, twenty-nine states passed laws allowing sterilization.



Image by Andrea Widburg using a public domain image of Margaret Sanger and a photo by Ivan Radic (CC BY 2.0).

When these laws were challenged in the U.S. Supreme Court in a case involving the "Virginia Colony for Epileptics and Feeble-Minded," Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, a progressive, ruled in favor of sterilization, declaring that "three generations of imbeciles are enough."

Eugenics was a terrible ideology and one that should never be forgotten, but the world's "elite" loved it. The famous playwright and polemicist George Bernard Shaw (a socialist who admired Hitler) once said that only eugenics could save mankind.

The Nazis, inspired by the American eugenics movement, were the most radical proponents of eugenics. In fact, they took it one step farther. Why sterilize "mental defectives" when it was more effective simply to kill them? In this endeavor, they had help from the United States. The Rockefeller Foundation funded the Kaiser Wilhelm Institute and the work of its radical scientists, one of whom was Josef Mengele.

This is how it worked: the alleged "mental defectives" in Germany were brought into houses, where they were interviewed. They were then shown to a back room where they were gassed with carbon monoxide and later disposed of in a crematorium. All in a day's work.

Eventually, the German killing machine was expanded into a vast network of railways that shipped over 10 million "undesirables" to concentration camps, where they would be gassed with lethal cyanide. After World War II, many of the public disciples of the pseudoscience of eugenics fell silent.

At the time, though, the proponents of eugenics claimed that they were doing a good thing, for they were improving the human race. Anyone who objected was easily marginalized.

Today we are in the throes of another false theory  i.e., climate change and all of its ugly ramifications. In fact, the parallels between climate change and eugenics are downright ominous. The first person to recognize these ominous parallels and candidly discuss them was the late Dr. Michael Crichton in his 2004 book State of Fear. (At the time, Crichton genuinely feared publishing State of Fear, worrying that the book's theme, which challenged climate change dogma, could get him killed.)

Despite climate change theories being debunked as fast as they are propounded, the true believers make sure they won't go away. They hide behind the word "unprecedented." Everything that's happened before on planet Earth  heat waves, drought, rain, wildfires, storms  is unprecedented, making it beyond challenge and justifying draconian, anti-human policies.

True climate science has been hijacked by an aggressive cabal of elites who wish to rule over the rest of us. Striving to prevent "climate change" gives them the ideal mechanism: once you control the energy, air and water quality, the food supply, etc., you can control every aspect of people's lives. In other words, through climate, you will have gained the same level of control over humanity that the eugenicists dreamed of and the Nazis almost achieved  all ostensibly to make the world a better place.

The scholar and critic H.L. Mencken presciently declared, "The urge to save humanity is almost always a false front for the urge to rule."
Im certainly not a cat person, and even less so now.

According to English professor Leigh Claire La Berge, the historical struggle of the working class (or the proletariat), against the bourgeoisie (the rich), is married to what she calls cat struggle  yes really, and it is a history that La Berge dives into in her new book, Marx for Cats, due to hit shelves this November.

A preview of the book can be found here, and in the Acknowledgments section we find this:

This book has its origins with Caroline Woolard in multiple ways. It was her idea to create the video series Marx for Cats: she was the producer; she found the collaborators; she got the grants; she hired the assistants; she got the project into artist residencies; and, finally, when she was queried about producing a book proposal for an art press, it was she who asked: Could Marx for Cats be a book?

Were these public grants? Given the current state of our government, I can only assume so.

La Berge begins her introduction with a focused history on prominent Marxist revolutionary Rosa Luxemburg and her pet cat, Mimi. From the text:

Before and after her stint in prison, Luxemburg organized, taught, agitated, and theorized, and it was Mimi who was her comrade. They lived together, read together, talked together, and received visitors together, including Vladimir Lenin, with whom Mimi flirted and who returned the affection.  Rosa Luxemburg led a revolutionary life. But so did Mimi. And while the formers contribution to Marxist theory and practice is well known in the annals of radical history, the latters is considered as merely an accompaniment, if it is considered at all. Marx for Cats amends such tendencies.

Later, La Berge admits that her project began as a discussion with a cat noting that when her Maine coon cat (his name is The Mitten) would misbehave, shed say Mitten, Mitten, naughty kitten then hed respond? From her book:

And he would retort: Im not naughty, no way

But you tell me that every day

Then the naughtiness doesnt go away Its just here to stay and stay.

Pretty sure hearing animals speak in rhyme constitutes what psychiatrists like to call delusional.

This is the fallout of leftist feminismlonely spinsters having imaginary conversations with house cats and writing a book full of words so worthless it can only serve as a cheap laughand La Berge is the boilerplate professor, the kind dominating academia today. Is it any surprise that university enrollments are in the toilet?

Image: Free image, Pixabay license, no attribution required.
Ho, hum. The debacle in Albuquerque is both boring and amusing. On September 8, New Mexico's Governor Lujan Grisham announced a "public health emergency" 30-day ban on carrying firearms in the City of Albuquerque with the threat she would extend it if she so chooses.

Why boring? Because the outcome of this silly move was determined from the git-go.

Why amusing? Many of us smile, snicker, and yawn. It's amusing because the follow-up to the governor's declaration developed according to the established pattern. The chief of police of Albuquerque, the sheriff of Bernalillo County, and the attorney general of the State of New Mexico have all announced they will not enforce the obviously unconstitutional ban, and the National Association for Gun Rights sought an injunction, which was granted yesterday in the form of a Temporary Restraining Order from the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico. Citizens with AR-15s slung over their shoulders gathered to protest, wave signs, and share speeches. The weatherman notes clouds and overcast and hints of possible morning showers.



Image: Gov. Michelle Grisham. YouTube screen grab (edited).

On the other hand, although this scenario looks rather like deja vu all over again, it actually is a bit intriguing.

Why intriguing? Because surely the governor had her finger to the wind and knew exactly what the response was going to be, but she went forward anyway.

Why? Because it's a probe, providing the strategists who serve our reptilian overlords with some data points. As with the case of COVID, the lizards who orchestrated the pandemic knew that it would eventually be discovered that the U.S. federal government funded the creation of it in the Wuhan lab, and we'd eventually learn that the masks, the social distancing, and the lockdowns were all pointless and that the "vaccines" were both ineffective and dangerous.

So why pursue that entire elaborate rococo deception? Because the Deep State lizards wanted to study the public response.

And why that? Because our Deep State reptilian overlords are in the process of formulating a plan to fit us all with a totalitarian straitjacket.

It must always be borne in mind that, for the political class, political power is the greatest pleasure, and the lust for power is the greatest motivation in life. (Aside: Meanwhile, back at the Federal Legislative Ranch, the Republican leadership is moving forward with a plan to rescue the Democrats from Biden in 2024. Trump will be running against whomever.)

Bear in mind that, in 1944. the United States Supreme Court in Korematsu v. United States approved the 1942 Japanese internment, because of "military necessity." Perhaps that made sense under the circumstances if one believes the hysteria portrayed in the 1979 John Belushi movie 1941, but note that Korematsu fires the lizard quest for an "emergency" sufficient to sweep aside the U.S. Constitution and all its citizen protections in one fell swoop.

It is surely alarming enough that the 17 federal intelligence agencies have developed the technology to surveil us through our underwear, but just why is it that 70 federal agencies are armed with significant firepower?

Let us ponder: what could piggyback on Korematsu? How about martial law? Martial law has indeed already been imposed some 68 times in U.S. history.

If the Democrats can truly persuade the courts that January 6 was an "insurrection," then a future fabrication of an insurrection requiring military intervention might well fall within the realm of plausibility, and such a military intervention could lead to an imposition of military law, under which all civil constitutional rights are set aside.
What is it about the House's radical leftist squad pols and institution of marriage?

We know that Rep. Ilhan Omar, for instance, appears to have married her brother for immigration purposes into the U.S.

Now Rep, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez may or may not be married to her live-in boyfriend, based on what her staff and her disclosures say. Something funny going on there, too.

According to the Washington Free Beacon:

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortezs (D., N.Y.) office says she isnt married. But she has described her fiance, Riley Roberts, as her "spouse" in forms filed with the House Ethics Committee in 2023, which has a strict definition of that term"someone to whom you are legally married." That could become a problem for the left-wing darling, since willful misrepresentations on the documents are a no-nothey could subject her to criminal prosecution, the forms stateand members of Congress are required to disclose the financial information of their spouses, which Ocasio-Cortez has declined to do. But taken at face value, four legal filings submitted to the House Ethics Committee pertaining to AOCs overseas travels in 2022 and 2023 suggest the pair have been legally married at least since Jan. 13, 2023. If that is the case, the "Squad" member can no longer leverage the so-called boyfriend loophole to evade public disclosure of his finances. While lawmakers are required to disclose financial information about their spouses, live-in romantic partners and fiances are exempt from the rule.

So if she's married to this goofus, it's past time for him to disclose his finances to the House ethics committee the way normal congressmembers do, to ensure he's not out profiting from stock tips or has some unexplained income.

No such luck. Now her staff have come out and told the Beacon that AOC is not married to the big lovable lunk after all. He's home free on his finances. But she's on the hook for misstating their relationship as that of a "spouse" for official travel purposes, when disclosures forms require strict honesty and there plainly is a space on the form for "other" kinds of relationships, which she could have ticked off without any problem. According to the Beacon, an AOC spokeswoman claimed: "House Ethics has commonly recognized the term spouse to extend to long-term partners."

That's nonsense. There clearly was a space for "other" on that disclosure form but AOC chose "spouse."

It was weird stuff because it wasn't about getting a free ride. Ocasio-Cortez's staff also told the Beacon that the boyfriend paid for his trips accompanying her, which makes the spousal claim that much more puzzling.

As the Beacon mentioned, keeping the boyfriend a boyfriend was useful in getting him off the hook for financial disclosure. But as the Beacon noted, it was puzzling that she claimed him to be a spouse when he wasn't, there didn't seem to be an obvious advantage.

Sure, maybe she's just "a woman in love" and was posting her wishful thinking on her ethics disclosure forms, hoping the live-in boyfriend would actually marry her by declaring that they were married. Perhaps he was resistant to the idea on the grounds of, as the Puerto Ricans and Cubans say: "Why buy the cow when you can have the milk for free?"

But there's also a second possibility -- and all one has to do is look at the bizarre Clinton marriage: Why do that pair stay together despite Bill's dalliances? It's widely believed that it's because spouses can't be called on to testify against one another.

Maybe there are others still, but this one would mesh with AOC's many ethics issues -- from her taking an undeclared "gift" of $35,000 Met tickets for their famous gala, plus the use of a fancy designer evening gown and other stuff around that event, to deceptive fund-raising practices, to still other ethical issues. Making him "married" might be the best way to keep him from getting a subpoena to testify against her.

So it could be that, too.

What it really illustrates is the left's contempt for marriage as anything other than a legal convenience. These people don't believe in marriage. They believe in getting the best advantage for themselves from marriage. They can be married or not be married, but what matters is not love, or romance, or a sacred bond, but how it benefits them politically. It's just a device, a vehicle. This explains why they have so much contempt for everyone else's marriages.

Andrea Widburg wrote an interesting piece the other day about how the left coopts sacred institutions fro political purposes and pays lip service to their importance only when it's politically beneficial.

Which could be applied to AOC in this odd scandal, too. Is she, or isn't she? Maybe someone in Congress should ask.

Image: Twitter screen shot
When the news percolated, it was nothing short of a Category Five media hurricane. It was over two years ago that the Canadian government declared that thousands of indigenous children were buried in unmarked "mass graves" at residential schools established by the government and run by the Catholic Church.

It was suggested that many were even murdered.

Catholic missionaries have a longstanding history of successfully establishing and running boarding schools not just in Canada, but worldwide. Across America's northern neighbor, the Catholic Church had been teaching and caring for indigenous children since the 1800s. That finally came to an end at the conclusion of the 20th century.

Apparently, the story was far from over. When the "news" broke that a mass of unmarked graves were uncovered, it was the perfect storm to condemn the Church that has been dealing with a series of sex abuse cases and declining church attendance.

The Machiavellian maxim that Rahm Emanuel, formerly of the Obama administration, turned into leftist dogma of "not allowing a crisis to go to waste" applied. It did not matter how flimsy and unverifiable the supposed evidence: blame Catholics for the deaths of thousands of indigenous children.

The hype not only lit up the internet but resulted in dozens of churches across Canada being desecrated, vandalized, and set ablaze. One civil rights activist said of the churches, "Burn it all down"  proving once again that tolerance in the modern sense of the word is quite selective.

The litany of apologies came from every Canadian corner and province, reaching all the way to the Vatican with Pope Francis himself.

Flash forward two years later: at 14 "mass grave" sites, all the alleged skeletal remains were nothing but "aberrations in the soil, rocks, tree roots, and the like." No human remains were found. According to various news reports, many other graves were simply overgrown cemeteries that were once cared for by the provincial municipalities and the local Catholic churches that are now part of Native lands. Those graves remained unmarked because the Native tribes did not replace the dilapidated wooden crosses.

According to the Catholic League, Murray Sinclair, of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, said the number of children corpses was 15,00025,000.

Officials have yet to find one. As fate would have it, the Church was not dumping and burying dead children in mass graves for nearly two centuries. So where are the apologies to the Church?

It wasn't too long ago that Ireland had its own version of mass grave mania, claiming that the bodies of 800 children were found in an unmarked mass grave outside a former orphanage run by nuns.

To the left's chagrin, that too was all a hoax minus the apologies.

The media and their government allies would never miss an opportunity to pile on the Catholic Church. Malfeasance against the Church is a blood sport among Marxist politicos. Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau is the perfect political paradigm, who would never pass up a self-serving photo opportunity. Trudeau quickly took a knee at one of these supposed mass grave sites, bowing his head and armed with a teddy bear, "paying his respects."

Mass graves. Murder. There was none. The consequences of bigotry can be Spartan, especially when government secularists are involved.

All that counts in Wokedom is the agenda and outcome. Such a dual combination outweighs any evidence. Preconceptions reign supreme, and the presumption of guilt is all that matters.

Mark Twain's timeless metaphor rings loud: "A lie can travel around the world and back again while the truth is lacing up its boots." Bringing the truth to light today is too often viewed as a Sisyphean task and frequently never gets accomplished to any meaningful degree.

There were a plethora of news stories proclaiming the horror of these "mass graves," but less than a tenth correcting this aberration of a news non-story.

Yet certain folks remain flummoxed as to why trust in Congress, government, and news outlets remain at all-time lows.

Image: Jim Choate via Flickr, CC BY-NC 2.0 (cropped).
The iPhone 12 might have become a health hazard to the public.

Belgium's junior minister for the digital economy recently asked the IBPT-BIPT to analyze the potential health risks linked to the radiation iPhone 12s allegedly emitted after France halted its sales.

The IBPT-BIPT is the federal regulatory body responsible for regulating the electronic communications market in Belgium's bilingual Brussels-Capital Region, among other responsibilities, per its About page.

Potential Health Hazards

Mathieu Michel, Belgium's junior minister for the digital economy, is looking into the potential health hazard Apple's iPhone 12 presents. According to a report from Reuters, he has recently asked the IBPT-BIPT to analyze the potential health risks linked to the radiation the iPhone 12 emits.

This investigation follows France's order to halt the smartphone's sales due to breaches of radiation exposure limits. The Associated Press' report mentioned that the county's government agency that manages wireless communications frequencies found that the iPhone 12 failed one of the tests for electromagnetic waves capable of being absorbed by the body.

L'@anfr a constate que l'iPhone 12 emettait un niveau d'ondes legerement superieur au seuil autorise.



Ce niveau est plus de 10 fois inferieur au niveau auquel il pourrait y avoir un risque pour la sante.



Mais la regle, c'est la regle : Apple doit se mettre en conformite. pic.twitter.com/nnTaF9taA0  Jean-Noel Barrot (@jnbarrot) September 13, 2023

The government agency in question didn't reveal why the three-year-old smartphone failed the test, nor why or how it chose the iPhone 12 to test. However, France's digital minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, said that the phone's radiation levels are still much too low for scientific studies to consider it harmful to users.

He said in a post on X.com that the iPhone 12 was emitting radiation levels "slightly above" the allowed threshold but with levels more than ten times lower than the one at which there could be a health risk.

Read More: Apple Launches Roadside Assistance via Satellite to iPhones

He also mentioned that the agency in question acknowledges that its tests don't reflect typical phone use. As such, the average iPhone 12 user shouldn't worry about any health hazard affecting them due to their use of the device.

Despite the French digital minister's statement, Michel wants to test the device for high radiation emissions to guarantee the safety of his country's citizens. As such, he had asked the IBPT-BIPT to analyze the potential danger the iPhone 12 poses, along with devices made by other producers, though the latter part may come at a later stage.

Apple, for its part, guaranteed that the iPhone 12 is safe for public use. The company explained on Sept. 13 that multiple international bodies certified the iPhone 12 as a device compliant with global radiation standards.

How Much IS Too Much?

The US' National Cancer Institute (NCI) mentioned in a study that cell phones and smartphones emit radiation in the radiofrequency (RF) region of the electromagnetic spectrum. According to the CDC, this frequency allows them to send signals to communicate with other devices.

While the CDC doesn't know for sure if RF radiation from smartphones can cause health problems after some time, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classified RF radiation as a "possible human carcinogen - a cancer-causing agent. Thankfully, the NCI mentioned that cellphone/smartphone use doesn't cause brain or other kinds of cancer in humans and the radio frequencies are too low to damage DNA, per USA Today.

Related Article: iPhone 13 vs. iPhone 12 Performance Test, Power: CPU, GPU Benchmark Leads to Shocking Results
The massive, bold red headline on the Drudge Report screamed: "Trump Behind Biden Impeachment Push!"

That may be the dumbest headline I've ever seen, and that's saying something!

This, of course, immediately led to questions such as: how? Especially as Biden and the Democrats have been desperately trying to imprison him lately.

The New York Times/Yahoo! News article breathlessly stated:

Trump has talked regularly by phone with members of the ultraconservative House Freedom Caucus and other congressional Republicans who pushed for impeachment, according to a person close to Trump who was not authorized to publicly discuss the conversations.

Trump has encouraged the effort both privately and publicly? Trump has been talking to congressional Republicans (especially of the "ultraconservative" variety)? Shocking. That he might encourage them in their potential attempt to impeach Biden, the man who has sicced the DOJ, FBI, and other now-weaponized federal agencies on him for daring to suggest the 2020 presidential election was not entirely on the up-and-up, is less than surprising  especially considering that the Democrats impeached him  twice  on trumped up charges that were more bogus than a John Brennan testimony.

And now we find out that the White House put out a lengthy memo on Sept. 13, attacking the media and demanding that reporters cease and desist their inquiries about President Biden and instead focus on Republicans. This unprecedented directive itself should be enough to impeach Biden...and everyone in his administration who had a hand in it, were that possible.

From the document:

It's time for the media to ramp up its scrutiny of House Republicans for opening an impeachment inquiry based on lies. When even House Republican members are admitting that there is simply no evidence that Joe Biden did anything wrong, much less impeachable, that should set off alarm bells for news organizations. For years, Republicans in Congress have tried to muddy the waters by attracting media coverage of their allegations, and as they choose to move forward with impeachment, it is the responsibility of the independent press to treat their claims with the appropriate scrutiny. Covering impeachment as a process story  Republicans say X, but the White House says Y  is a disservice to the American public who relies on the independent press to hold those in power accountable. House Republican leaders should be held accountable for the fact that they are lurching toward impeachment over allegations that are not only unfounded but, in virtually all cases, have been actively disproven  including by witnesses and documents in their own investigations, as well as years-old congressional probes and even the former President's first impeachment inquiry. As you begin to cover the House GOP's impeachment push more intensely, enclosed you will find a 14-page appendix that comprehensively addresses the 7 key lies House Republicans are suggesting they are basing an impeachment on. We hope this document helps provide you with factual information useful in your reporting on their unprecedented, unfounded claims underlying an impeachment inquiry without any evidence of wrongdoing.

There are no words to describe the shamelessness. Not to mention the hypocrisy and gaslighting. "An impeachment inquiry based on lies"? Hello! Steele Dossier, anyone? Total fabrication. And "the call" with Zelensky? Inquiring about the investigation into Biden corruption? You know, the investigation that Robert L Peters the Big Guy thwarted by getting the prosecutor fired by threatening to hold back $1 billion in aid?

"The American public" relies on "the independent press to hold those in power accountable"? You mean like the FBI heads who lied under oath? The 51 former intelligence officials who lied repeatedly and still refuse to apologize for their prevarications intended to take down a sitting president? President Biden and his son Hunter themselves? An independent press? Hah! Enemies of the people they are supposed to serve.

"Without any evidence of wrongdoing"? You mean other than Hunter's laptop, the Biden video regarding Shokin bank records, government documents, phone calls, business meetings, statements of former partners and clients, Hunter's own words, emails, texts, WhatsApp messages, and whistleblower testimony, among others?

Chuck Schumer, a fervent supporter of both the preposterous Trump impeachments, was so indignant at the prospect of a Biden impeachment that he took to the platform formerly known as Twitter to state: "I think the impeachment inquiry is absurd. The American people want us to do something that will make their lives better  not go off on these chases and witch hunts!"

"Witch hunts"? He stole that one from President Trump. Talk about appropriation!

In fact, the entire memo dressing down the media and providing them with "factual information" accused Republicans, famously timid and naive, of doing precisely what they themselves had already done  twice  to Trump.

An independent media establishment would scoff at such transparent tripe  and be angered by the condescension and coercion from the Biden White House.

It's too bad we don't have one.

Image: Pixabay, Pixabay License.
It seems like the recent news were off the mark. China didnt ban Apples iPhone after all, reports CNN, in any capacity. As a reminder, a report surfaced claiming that iPhones got banned in central government offices in China, which resulted in a drop for Apple shares.

China didnt ban Apples iPhone in any capacity after all

Well, the ban didnt happen at all, it seems. Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Mao Ning, said during a press conference: We have always been open to foreign companies and welcome them to seize the opportunities and share the fruits of Chinas economic development.

Advertisement

Advertisement

She added that China has noticed many media reports regarding the security incidents of Apples iPhone, and that China attaches great importance to information and cyber security.

She didnt go into details regarding that, but she did urge foreign smartphone companies to follow Chinas privacy laws and to prevent any person or organization from stealing data stored in their customers phones.

The US did share its concern after the initial report

The US reacted to the initial report, shared by The Wall Street Journal, by saying that theyre concerned. John Kirby, National Security Council spokesman, said, at the time: It seems to be a piece of the kinds of aggressive and inappropriate retaliation to US companies that weve seen from the PRC in the past, thats what this appears to be.

As a reminder, that was prior to Mao Nings press conference, where she cleared the air. It seems like Apples iPhone devices are not banned in any capacity in China.

The relations between China and the US are tense, at least as far as the technology aspect is concerned. Huawei has suffered quite a bit since the US ban years ago. And things only went downhill from there.

This report managed to raise quite a few eyebrows, but it seems to have been false. Anything is possible down the line, though. That being said, Apple did announce its new iPhone 15 lineup a couple of days ago, in case youre interested.
Google has reportedly settled a lawsuit in California court that alleged the company was using deceptive location data practices with users. The complaint was filed on September 14, 2023, and accuses Google of using deceptive practices to track, store, and use location data of consumers for targeted advertising without consent.

The complaint was filed by Californias Attorney General Nicklas Akers. It states that Google basically tricked users into consenting to having their location data tracked 24/7 outside of the Google Maps app. This practice went on from 2014 to 2018 according to the complaint. It also notes that Google would show users a deceptive prompt to allow location history under the guise of enhancing the Google Maps experience. The enhancement was said to be for storing location data to improve search suggestions and recommended routes.

Advertisement

Advertisement

This prompt would pop up in the Maps app when users would launch it. And at the bottom of the prompt was a big blue button that you could tap that said yes Im in. Tapping yes is what would give consent to Google to use the location data that was gathered. Only that was never mentioned to users. And it wasnt periodically, it was all the time.

Google agrees to pay $93 million for location data lawsuit, but admits no wrongdoing

Google has agreed to pay $93 million to the state of California to settle this complaint. This also comes after it settled with 40 other states for around $391 million back in November of 2022. Of course, part of the settlement agreement is that Google doesnt admit any faults. So the company gets to walk away with its integrity intact. Settling was probably a smart choice. Today is day three of Googles antitrust case with the DOJ.

And settling this lawsuit means it can clear its plate for the weeks ahead in its ongoing trial. In addition to paying the $93 million, Google has agreed to show more information to users about location data tracking. This includes providing additional transparency about tracking, as well as disclosing that location data may be used for targeted ads. So, Google is still to going to track the data of Californians and use it for advertising. It just has to tell them about it now.
Samsung is rumored to launch a smart ring called the Galaxy Ring early next year. Some tipsters have claimed that the tiny new wearable device will debut during the Galaxy S24 launch event in January 2024. While this rumor hasnt received backing from many reputed sources, a new piece of evidence has emerged hinting at a nearing unveiling of the ring.

A user recently decompiled Samsungs Galaxy Wearable app, the smartphone companion for the companys wearable devices. They found a new icon resembling a ring within the app files (via Revegnus). The app never had such an icon previously, at least not on the user-facing side. It appears Samsung is preparing Galaxy Wearable for the impending arrival of the Galaxy Ring. Perhaps it could already be internally testing the product.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Unfortunately, there was no text explanation to go with the ring icon. So this is all speculation for the time being. However, the discovery came just when Galaxy Ring rumors got more frequent. Samsung previously updated the Samsung Health app to add Ring support, confirming the presence of a smart ring in its pipeline. The latest sighting is more proof that the wearable is nearing its launch.

The Galaxy Ring could be a comprehensive health-monitoring solution

Rumors about a Samsung smart ring date back to a long time ago. However, things started to look more promising earlier this year. In July, the South Korean media reported that the company was almost done with the development work and was preparing for the mass production of key components. We have since gone on to spot references to the Galaxy Ring within Samsung products on two separate occasions now.

According to reports from the Korean firms home country, the Galaxy Ring will be a comprehensive health monitoring solution. Samsung took a long time to develop the product to ensure that the sensors embedded into the device can accurately measure your health data. The company wants better accuracy than smartwatches and other wrist-worn fitness trackers.

It appears Samsung is now ready with its first-gen Galaxy Ring. If these rumors turn out to be correct, we will see the device in a few months. Regulatory hurdles may delay its market release, but the wearable might make its first official public appearance in January next year. The company is reportedly considering launching the Galaxy S24 series a few weeks earlier than the Galaxy S23, which debuted on February 1, 2023.


By Kim Byoung-hwan



Africa, a region endowed with abundant natural resources and a young population, has high growth potential, so much so that it is seen as the "last emerging market of the 21st century."





Countries worldwide are trying to gain a stronger foothold in Africa. In December 2022, the Biden administration invited 49 African heads of state to Washington D.C. to hold the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit and unveiled plans to invest more than $55 billion in Africa over the next three years. China has been investing heavily in Africa through the Belt and Road Initiative since President Xi Jinping took office in 2013.



Korea, once one of the most impoverished countries and a recipient of foreign aid, has ample development experience, successfully transitioning to a donor country in merely a few decades. As an economic powerhouse today with both advanced industries and cutting-edge technologies, Korea can be a crucial partner for African nations in economic development.



This year marks the 40th anniversary of Korea's accession to the African Development Bank, and the seventh Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Ministerial Conference is expected to become a turning point in deepening Korea-Africa cooperation.



The resumption of this conference after it was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic signifies the operation of the consultative body between the finance ministers of Africa and Korea once again. It will also help boost cooperation ahead of next year's Korea-Africa Summit.



To that end, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Choo Kyung-ho laid out plans to provide a $6 billion financial package for the next two years and suggested the "ABC Initiative" to enhance collaboration.



"A" stands for agricultural transformation. The Korean government launched the K-Rice Belt Initiative, a plan to build a rice production base to feed 30 million people in African countries that are experiencing a food crisis.



"B" is for bio-health. The government is willing to strengthen health solidarity between Korea and Africa by financing large-scale projects through the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF).



"C" is for climate change and the energy transition. The Korea-Africa Energy Investment Framework (KAEIF), signed in 2021, aims to identify promising energy projects in Africa as well as providing $600 million in financial assistance over the course of five years.



For the ABC Initiative to materialize, strengthening the foundation for private-sector cooperation during the 2023 KOAFEC is essential. In essence, diversifying ODA channels, boosting investment in human resource development in the private sector and removing cross-border trade barriers are necessary for the private sector in Africa to play a pivotal role in sustainable development.



During this conference, there were many bilateral meetings with African ministers and vice ministers. I was able to witness African countries' fervor and willingness to take on challenges.



As this year's KOAFEC Ministerial Conference was held in Busan, it holds great significance in demonstrating Korea's desire to reciprocate to the international community what we had received through the World Expo 2030. Busan was the last place of refuge for Koreans during the 1950-53 Korean War, and it was able to become the prosperous city it is today thanks to generous support from the international community.



As such, Korea hopes that the miracle of Busan could be replicated in Africa through the Expo. And while doing so, Korea stands ready to work together with Africa as one of its key partners.



The writer is first vice minister of economy and finance.


(ANSA) - ROME, SEP 14 - It would be "absurd and incomprehensible" if the European Union were to put "brakes" on the merger between Ita and Lufthansa, Business and Made in Italy Minister Adolfo Urso said on Thursday.

"Europe asked all the governments that preceded us to resolve the ex-Alitalia issue through privatisation," said Urso.

"The other governments failed to deal with the issue, and we are resolving it with a procedure whereby a foreign company acquires a share, following perfectly the drive that Europe has been giving for years," he added.

The EU's assessment of this manoeuvre should be "not only positive, but commendable", Urso concluded.

In May Italy and Germany agreed to the acquisition by German carrier Lufthansa in the two-year period 2023-2024 of a 41% stake in ITA's share capital against an investment of 325 million euros.

However, the deal still needs to be approved by EU competition and antitrust authorities, a step that can only be taken once they have received official notification of the deal from the contracting parties.

On Sunday Italian economy ministry sources said Italy was waiting for the outcome of an EC probe, which is expected to be fast, before proceeding with notification.

"The notification of the agreement for the sale of a minority share of Ita to Lufthansa to the European Commission for Competition is accepted, by practice, only at the end of an investigation that the same commission is carrying out very meticulously in the context of a pre-notification phase that has already begun", explained the sources.

Separately, EC sources said the commission was in close contact with Italy and Germany over the deal.

"The European Commission remains in close contact with the parties to discuss the transaction".

"Prior to its official notification, these pre-notification contacts are continuous and are part of the standard process for assessing a complex transaction", the sources added.

On Thursday a Lufthansa spokesperson told ANSA that the company is "at an advanced stage in the process of formally notifying the transaction" with Ita "to the European Commission and other relevant authorities".

"We look forward to continuing our constructive dialogue towards an early go-ahead," the spokesperson added. (ANSA).


(ANSA) - ROME, SEP 14 - The parties in the majority will reach an agreement on the windfall tax that the Italian government is imposing on surplus profits made by banks, Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said on Thursday.

"We have tabled the amendments but we are ready for dialogue and confrontation," said Tajani in relation to the 11 amendments presented on Thursday by his centre-right party Forza Italia (FI) to the bill under examination by the Senate Industry and Environment committees.

"We don't give diktats" and "we just want the rules to be written well in the interest of savers," continued the minister, who criticised the move to introduce a new 40% windfall tax on banks' surplus profits that triggered stock market turmoil the following day.

The government subsequently performed a partial U-turn, saying the tax would be capped at 0.1% of institutes' assets.

Tajani said at the time that the measure had not been discussed.

"We will find a synthesis" in the majority, "I am convinced that a solution will be found," said Tajani on Thursday.

The proposed amendments presented by FI range from the exclusion of smaller banks and ones that are operationally complex to the reinforcement of the idea of a one-off tax, applying only to the year 2023.

The party is also requesting that government bonds be excluded from the calculation of surplus profit.

Premier Giorgia Meloni has repeatedly defended the windfall tax as a "just" measure, saying the government will use the revenue generated from the tax to finance a fund for mortgages on first homes and for interventions to reduce the tax burdens of households and businesses. (ANSA).


(ANSA) - ROME, SEP 14 - Law enforcement officers staged a new dawn blitz in the Camorra mafia ridden town of Caivano near Naples on Thursday as part of ongoing efforts to combat rampant crime in the area.

Over 400 police, Carabinieri police and finance police officers were involved in the operation, with the support of two helicopters.

The blitz focused on the deprived Parco Verde neighbourhood, which came to public attention at the end of August after two young cousins were allegedly gang raped there.

Since then it has been the target of several police operations and seen a visit by Premier Giorgia Meloni.

"No more drug dens, no more 'stese' (in Camorra jargon, a violent act of intimidation involving gunfire from motorbikes), we have had enough," said the parishioners of Don Maurizio Patriciello, who on Thursday told ANSA he had received no new threats after it was reported that his security detail had been reinforced.

Don Patriciello was assigned a police escort in 2022 after a bomb exploded outside his church.

"I am always happy when the state is present. In whatever form.

Today this is what is needed," he said on the dawn blitz.

(ANSA).


(ANSA) - ROME, SEP 14 - Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi and European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson on Thursday agreed on the need to develop "a new European operational strategy against human traffickers" during a telephone conversation on Thursday.

I also highlighted to the Commissioner the need to strengthen repatriations from Tunisia to the countries of origin,' said Piantedosi.

This and other issues are reportedly to be addressed during a bilateral meeting to be set up in Brussels as soon as possible.

(ANSA).


An Australian politician has spoken of his hope that a delegation to the United States to call for the release of Julian Assange will lead to charges against the WikiLeaks founder being dropped.

More than 60 Australian federal politicians will travel to Washington next week to meet with members of the US Congress, civil society and the media.

Senator David Shoebridge told the PA news agency there was now an urgent need to drop the case and allow Assange to leave Belmarsh prison in London, where he has been held since 2019 as he fights extradition to the US on espionage charges.

Assange fears he will spend the rest of his life in prison if he is extradited.

Sen Shoebridge said next weeks delegation was unique as it was cross party, with huge support from the Australian public to end the persecution of Assange.

The core crime he faces is the crime of being a journalist, Sen Shoebridge said. The reason we are going is that Julian Assange is facing an unprecedented situation.

He is an Australian citizen who has committed no crime but is being extradited to the United States for activities that would never be considered a crime in Australia.

We are hopeful that the partisan world of Washington politics, such a broad cross party visiting group will have some political cut through.

We are at a critical point. In a matter of weeks Julian Assange could be put on a plane, in shackles, and sent to the US.

More than 60 Australian politicians have signed a letter saying they stood in support of the trip to the US and were resolutely of the view that the prosecution and incarceration of the Australian citizen Julian Assange must end.

They said the matter had dragged on for over a decade and it was wrong for Mr Assange to be further persecuted and denied his liberty when one considers the duration and circumstances of the detention he has already suffered.
Children in Reception who took part in a Covid catch-up programme made four additional months progress in their language development compared to pupils who did not participate, a study suggests.

The Nuffield Early Language Intervention (Neli) was offered to all state primary schools in England across three academic years to help four- and five-year-olds affected by the pandemic with their language skills.

The national rollout of the scheme, funded by the Department for Education (DfE) as part of its efforts to help education recovery, saw around 6,500 schools register to take part in the first year (2020/21).

A further 4,000 signed up across the second and third years of delivery (2021/22 and 2022/23).

An independent evaluation of the programme, by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER), found that young children made on average four months additional progress in their language skills compared to pupils in participating schools who did not receive the intervention.

A lunch tray in a school canteen (Ben Birchall/PA)

Further analysis found that children eligible for free school meals made on average seven months additional progress as a result of the programme.

The evaluation, which looked at data from 10,800 children in 350 schools in 2021/22, suggests that Neli could help to close the language development gap between disadvantaged children and their peers.

The scheme is a 20-week intervention where school staff, usually teaching assistants, deliver individual and small-group sessions to help children improve their vocabulary, active listening and narrative skills.

The findings, published by the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF), showed that the impact was greater for children who received more sessions compared with children who received fewer sessions.

Due to ongoing disruption caused by the pandemic, many schools included in the evaluation were unable to deliver all the sessions as intended.

But even for children who received fewer sessions, there was an average positive impact on their language outcomes, the report found.

Children on a swing (Gareth Fuller/PA)

Professor Becky Francis, chief executive of the EEF, said: Its hard to overestimate how exciting it is to see a programme have a significant positive impact on a national scale.

This gives early years educators a programme that they can trust to help children needing additional support with their communication and language skills, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The DfE funded the national rollout of Neli in response to evidence suggesting childrens language development had been affected by the pandemic.

They are funding it for a fourth year of delivery.

David Johnston, minister for children, families and wellbeing, said: High-quality childcare and language development are so crucial to make sure children are ready for school and to improve their life chances.

That is why programmes like Nuffield Early Language Intervention (Neli) are so important.

Its fantastic to see that the children involved in the programme are now four months ahead of where they would have been without the programme, with disadvantaged children having benefitted the most.
Former deputy prime minister Dominic Raab has warned the Government against any rash moves with China, days after it was revealed a possible spy for Beijing was discovered in Westminster.

Mr Raab, who was also once the UKs foreign secretary, urged MPs to tread carefully with China due to its covert nature, tactics, and far-reaching and invasive geopolitical tendrils.

The recently-resigned Tory MP warned that Chinas economic size could see the UK hamstrung if the Asian superpower were to respond disproportionately to any action or policy by the UK.

Mr Raab said speaking out against China would be dangerous for Britain (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Writing in the Telegraph, Mr Raab said: We must be vigilant and unrelenting in enforcing new domestic powers to safeguard our security, while we calmly and patiently expand the circle of partners abroad  to strengthen our hand in dealing with China.

All of this should be done with calm but persistent focus, and without foghorn diplomacy, (or risk the UK appearing) as a paper tiger in Beijing.

Mr Raab added that speaking out against China would be dangerous for Britain, mere hours after Labour leader Sir Kier Starmer dubbed Prime Minister Rishi Sunak inaction man for his handling of foreign relations.

Sir Keir speaking during Prime Ministers Questions in the House of Commons (Jessica Taylor/PA)

The Prime Minister is currently facing questions on his China policy after news broke of the March arrest of a possible Beijing spy posing as a parliamentary researcher.

Sir Keir said: He is failing to stop terrorists strolling out of prison, failing to guard Britain against hostile actors, completely failing on small boats  how can anyone trust him to protect the country?

Mr Raab added in the Telegraph that it would be wiser to de-couple from China altogether.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (Kin Cheung/AP)

He also said cutting ties is not even faintly realistic as more than 100 billion in trade occurred between China and Britain in 2022 alone.

News of the accused spy comes shortly after a report revealed in August that there is confusion across Whitehall about relations with China stemming from a failure to explain foreign policies and an incoherence in approach.
African Development Bank (AfDB) President Akinwumi Adesina poses during an interview with The Korea Times on the occasion of the 2023 Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Ministerial Conference at Ananti Hilton Busan hotel, Wednesday. Courtesy of Moustafa Cheaiteli for AfDB



AfDB president finds reciprocal interests with Korea in labor, technology



By Yi Whan-woo



BUSAN  Recording the world's lowest fertility rate each year since 2013, Korea is struggling with a looming demographic crisis. In 2022, the country's fertility rate dropped to a new low of 0.78.



Accordingly, the number of economically-active people aged 15 to 64, out of its entire 51 million population, is feared to plunge 35 percent to 24.19 million from 2020 to 2050.



Made up of 54 countries, Africa, on the other hand, is noteworthy for having the world's youngest population, with 477 million out of 1.4 billion people on the continent aged 15 to 35, according to African Development Bank (AfDB) President Akinwumi Adesina.





African Development Bank (AfDB) President Akinwumi Adesina, left, shakes hands with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Choo Kyung-ho before their meeting during the 2023 Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Ministerial Conference at Ananti Hilton Busan hotel, Wednesday. Courtesy of Ministry of Economy and Finance



"So, I think Korea can have a more open, liberal immigration policy that allows highly talented Africans to be able to come, join companies, develop careers and so on," Adesina said during an interview with The Korea Times at Ananti Hilton Busan hotel, Wednesday.



Headquartered in Cote d'Ivoire, the AfDB, along with the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Export-Import Bank of Korea (Eximbank), is a co-host of the 2023 Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Ministerial Conference running in Busan from Tuesday to Friday. The conference was suspended for five years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.



The AfDB president assessed that "quite a lot of young Africans are skilled" but cannot land jobs due to a lack of employment opportunities and other unfavorable labor market conditions.



He added, "Flexible labor market regulations can allow Korea to tap into the young, dynamic workforce that Africa brings to the world."



Adesina also urged more Korean businesses, especially smaller ones, to come to Africa to capitalize on its abundant labor force.



"We have Samsung and the all other big guys from Korea, but I want to see a lot more," he said.









At the same time, they can explore opportunities in fintech, ICT, and other digital technology-related industries, considering more young people are growing up in a digital world in the pandemic era, Adesina explained.



For instance, the mobile payment market in Africa is scaled at $701 billion, which accounts for 70 percent of the entire global market.





African Development Bank (AfDB) President Akinwumi Adesina, second from left, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Choo Kyung-ho, second from right, are at a meeting with their respective officials during the 2023 Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Ministerial Conference at Ananti Hilton Busan hotel, Wednesday. Courtesy of Ministry of Economy and Finance
Director of the new musical Flowers For Mrs Harris has said that the production celebrates British working-class stories.

Adapted from the novel by Paul Gallico, the musical centres around Mrs Harris and her desire to buy a dress priced out of her budget.

Discussing the musical, which will arrive at Hammersmiths Riverside Studios this autumn, director Bronagh Lagan, said: Its a working-class story and there isnt many musicals about British working-class stories and this really celebrates that.

She has this want to buy a dress and that sounds very simple and it sounds that its materialistic but it was never really about her wanting to buy a dress.

It was about the feeling that she had when she connected with art.

A film adaptation of Gallicos book called Mrs Harris Goes To Paris, starring Lesley Manville as Ada Harris, was released last year.

For the musical, Olivier-award winning actress Jenna Russell, who has TV credits in Gentleman Jack and Call The Midwife, will play protagonist Mrs Harris.

The actress said that the story had almost brought tears to the eyes of her partner when she was practising her lines.

I was running lines in the kitchen with my other half the other day, she said.

We were just doing the lines and about three times he filled up (with tears) just going Im so sorry, God its so moving. And I went I know and youve not even heard the music yet.'

Jenna Russell rehearsing for Flowers For Mrs Harris (Pamela Raith/PA)

Russells character spends her day-to-day life cleaning houses, when one day, whilst working for a wealthy client in Belgravia, she happens upon a Dior dress that takes her breath away.

This incentivises Mrs Harris to set off on a journey and whilst the plot centres around a dress, cast members have said that the story is about much more than just a piece of material.

Nathan Campbell, who plays Bob and Andre in the musical, said: The essence of the show is way more than Mrs Harris going to Paris and buying a dress.

Its about that want and need, and when you have that determination to succeed and seeing a woman who had been through lots of things in life decide that shes going to do something for herself.

Flowers For Mrs Harris will play at Riverside Studios from September 30 to November 26 2023 and tickets are already on sale.
Simon Pegg, Jane Fonda and Camila Cabello have lent their voices to a Greenpeace animated short film which reflects the dangers facing marine life.

Hot Fuzz actor Pegg voices a whale who helps guide a flying fish and an eel, portrayed by US actress Fonda and singer Cabello, who are in search for clear water amid warm murky oceans and industrial fishing nets.

The short film opens with Pegg saying: This is a story about survival. Against all the odds, a chance for life to thrive.

Jane Fonda, Camila Cabello and Simon Pegg have lent their voices to a Greenpeace short film (Handout)

The flying fish and eel encounter plastic, deep sea mining and dead fish on their journey before finally reaching the sanctuary of clean waters.

As the fish immerse themselves in the healthy sea life and coral, Peggs voiceover says: Our oceans are under threat and time is running out.

World leaders finally agreed a Global Ocean Treaty that can protect the oceans, our home.

Now they must use this Treaty to create ocean sanctuaries where marine life can recover and thrive.

Reflecting on his involvement in the project, Pegg said: The oceans are important to everybody. Theyre such a vast and integral part of the planets survival mechanism.

It would be an act of utmost stupidity to let them go to ruin, and yet a lot of the time we seem to be allowing practices which do absolutely that.

So its really important to get behind causes which look to conserve and protect our ocean and all the life that lives in it.

The Hot Fuzz actor voices a whale who helps guide a flying fish and an eel, voiced by US actress Jane Fonda and singer Camila Cabello, who are in search for clear water (Handout)

The short film premiered on the Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise in Long Beach, California, at an event hosted by US actress Rosanna Arquette on Wednesday.

UN members states including the UK in March agreed the Global Ocean Treaty, which aims to protect large areas of marine life by putting stricter regulations on deep sea mining and fishing.

Governments will have the chance to sign the new treaty at the UN General Assembly in New York on September 20.

Fiona Nicholls of Greenpeaces Protect The Oceans campaign said: Ocean sanctuaries provide relief from the growing threats that sea creatures face from climate breakdown, pollution and overfishing.

But as well as giving wildlife and ecosystems a fighting chance, they sustain the billions of people who still get nourishment and a livelihood from the ocean.

Greenpeace is thrilled to have some of the worlds best-loved actors lend their voices to this critical issue that affects us all.

The short film was produced by UK animation studio Rumpus Animations.
Sir Keir Starmer insisted closer co-operation was needed with the European Union on the small boats crisis in the face of claims he would hand control of immigration policy back to Brussels.

The Labour leader indicated he could be prepared to do a deal with Brussels which would involve the UK taking a quota of asylum seekers who arrive in the bloc in exchange for the ability to return people who cross the English Channel.

But he insisted that his focus was on ensuring that an anti-terrorism style international crackdown could smash the gangs behind the vile trade, preventing people leaving in small boats from France in the first place.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper arriving at Europol (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Sir Keir visited The Hague, in the Netherlands, for talks with the EUs Europol law enforcement agency.

Deepening intelligence ties with Europe as part of a new post-Brexit security pact and strengthening powers to restrict the movement of those suspected of organised immigration crime would form part of Sir Keirs plan.

But the Tories seized on the suggestion that he would be prepared to negotiate with Brussels on the possibility of accepting a migrant quota as part of an EU-wide returns deal for people crossing the Channel.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman said Sir Keir would let the UK become a dumping ground for Europes migrants.

But Sir Keir argued that under the Tories we are not deciding, as a country, who is coming to the UK  the gangs are deciding.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper work in their hotel in The Hague (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

As part of its plans, Labour says it would work to reach a new agreement to share real-time intelligence with the EU similar to the Schengen Information System II, a database of terror suspects and immigration offenders which the UK had automatic access to before Brexit.

The party has also vowed to strengthen powers to restrict the movement of people smugglers by making it quicker and easier to obtain civil orders, known as serious crime prevention orders, which are used to target offenders such as terrorists and drug traffickers.

More British officers would be stationed in Europe under the plans, with a cross-border police force focused solely on disrupting criminal gangs, Labour said.

In an interview with The Times newspaper, Sir Keir said he would also seek an EU-wide returns agreement for asylum seekers who arrive in Britain, which may involve a quid pro quo of accepting quotas of migrants from the bloc.

That would be part of any discussions and negotiations with Europe, he told The Times.

Labour will restore the security of Britain's borders. Good to be in The Hague to set out how. pic.twitter.com/TZEWrUYt5P  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) September 13, 2023

He would not be drawn on the number of asylum seekers he would be happy to take in under a deal with the European Union.

The Labour leader told ITVs Good Morning Britain his main aim was ensuring that people did not make it across the English Channel in the first place.

The first stage is: how do you work with police forces across countries to ensure that you stop people getting into the boats in the first place, and smash this vile trade?

And that is about working here in Europol, working across Europe, to ensure that the criminals are brought down, that they are treated in the same way that we treat terrorists. So thats stage one.

The question of whether people can then be returned only applies if people are still getting across the Channel, and what I want to do is to stop this trade, stop this vile business in the first place.

On Times Radio, he added: Under Labour, we get in control of this situation.

At the moment weve got the appalling situation where we are not deciding, as a country, whos coming to the UK  the gangs are deciding. That is fundamentally wrong.

Funding for the measures would be redirected from the Governments plan to send asylum seekers on a one-way trip to Rwanda, which is currently held up in the courts following a series of legal challenges.

Health Secretary Steve Barclay claimed Labour would hand control of immigration policy to Brussels (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Responding to Sir Keirs plans, Home Secretary Mrs Braverman said: Hell let Brussels decide who comes to the UK.

Hell agree to make Britain the dumping ground for many of the millions of illegal migrants that Europe doesnt want. And none of this will stop the boats.

Health Secretary Steve Barclay told Times Radio: Its no surprise that Keir Starmer wants to give up control of our immigration policy to the EU and let them decide what quotas we have to take.

Were very clear we need to have a strong deterrent. Thats why we put in place the Rwanda policy.

Taking a hard-line stance on immigration crime will be seen as important to convince swing voters that Labour can be trusted to stem the number of Channel crossings, which has reached more than 23,000 so far this year.

Sir Keirs meeting with Europol officials at The Hague comes ahead of a trip to Montreal, Canada, for a summit of progressive politicians.

Reports suggest he is also set to be hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris next week.

He could also be eyeing a meeting in the White House with US President Joe Biden in the coming months, whose Bidenomics and landmark green subsidy push has attracted admiration from the Opposition.
Sir Keir Starmer insisted closer co-operation with the European Union on the small boats crisis meant taking control of a situation the Government has totally lost control of.

In a vicious political battle with the Government, the Labour leader described as nonsense the Prime Minister and Home Secretarys claims that he would let the UK become a dumping ground for 100,000 migrants from the EU each year.

Sir Keir indicated he could be prepared to do a deal with Brussels which would involve the UK taking a quota of asylum seekers who arrive in the bloc in exchange for the ability to return people who cross the English Channel.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer was visiting Europol together with shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

But he insisted that his focus was on ensuring that an anti-terrorism-style international crackdown could smash the gangs behind the vile trade, preventing people leaving in small boats from France in the first place.

Sir Keir visited The Hague, in the Netherlands, for talks with the EUs Europol law enforcement agency.

Speeding up data and intelligence sharing with Europe as part of a new post-Brexit security pact and strengthening powers to restrict the movement of those suspected of organised immigration crime would form part of Sir Keirs plan.

But the Tories seized on the suggestion that he would be prepared to negotiate with Brussels on the possibility of accepting a migrant quota as part of an EU-wide returns deal for people crossing the Channel.

Rishi Sunak attacked Sir Keir Starmers plans to address the small boats crisis (Aaron Chown/PA)

Rishi Sunak claimed the plans could result in 100,000 EU migrants coming to the UK every year.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman said Sir Keir would let the UK become a dumping ground for Europes migrants.

But Sir Keir said the response was typical from a Government thats completely lost control of the situation.

Its embarrassing that the Government is pumping out this nonsense, he said.

I can only assume its because theyve got nothing sensible to say on the issue.

With @Keir_Starmer as Prime Minister, Labour will crackdown on criminal smuggling gangs and secure our borders. pic.twitter.com/BXZZQvtc0Y  The Labour Party (@UKLabour) September 14, 2023

Downing Street denied that a European returns deal was no longer a priority for Government, pointing to its cooperation with Albania  but said a burden-sharing relationship with the bloc was off the table.

As part of its plans, Labour says it would work to reach a new agreement to share real-time intelligence with the EU similar to the Schengen Information System II, a database of terror suspects and immigration offenders which the UK had automatic access to before Brexit.

The party has also vowed to strengthen powers to restrict the movement of people smugglers by making it quicker and easier to obtain civil orders, known as serious crime prevention orders, which are used to target offenders such as terrorists and drug traffickers.

More British officers would be stationed in Europe under the plans, with a cross-border police force focused solely on disrupting criminal gangs, Labour said.

In an interview with The Times newspaper, Sir Keir said he would also seek an EU-wide returns agreement for asylum seekers who arrive in Britain, which may involve a quid pro quo of accepting quotas of migrants from the bloc.

That would be part of any discussions and negotiations with Europe, he told The Times.

He would not be drawn on the number of asylum seekers he would be happy to take in under a deal with the European Union.

The Labour leader said his main aim was ensuring that people did not make it across the English Channel in the first place.

Ive been exploring today at Europol with police teams, with prosecutorial teams whether we can get a closer agreement that would allow us to share information more quickly, to have joint operations to take down those that are running this vile trade by stopping those boats getting in the water in the first place, he told reporters in The Hague.

Challenged over seeking closer ties with the EU after Brexit, he said: If were going to smash the gangs that are running this vile trade of putting people into the water to cross the Channel, then we have to operate where theyre operating.

And theyre operating in France, across Europe, beyond Europe in fact. And thats why Im here talking about what we can do with our EU partners but also beyond that.

Funding for the measures would be redirected from the Governments plan to send asylum seekers on a one-way trip to Rwanda, which is currently held up in the courts following a series of legal challenges.

Responding to Labours plans, Mr Sunak told reporters during a visit in Devon: Keir Starmer spent all of this year voting against our stop-the-boats Bill, the toughest legislation that any government has passed to tackle illegal migration.

I think he spent most of last year voting against a previous Bill which has since then led to almost 700 arrests related to organised immigration crime, so I dont think its credible that he really wants to grip this problem.

And his plans today seem to amount to saying that we might one day accept 100,000 EU migrants every year. That doesnt seem like a credible plan to me to stop the boats.

Ms Braverman said: Hell let Brussels decide who comes to the UK.

In just 5 yrs the Tories have let criminal smuggler gangs take deep hold along the UK border  making a mockery of our border security and putting peoples lives at risk. Labour will go after the gangs with new powers, a new Cross Border Police Unit & new security agreements https://t.co/ZWLoAN2hea  Yvette Cooper (@YvetteCooperMP) September 13, 2023

Hell agree to make Britain the dumping ground for many of the millions of illegal migrants that Europe doesnt want. And none of this will stop the boats.

Downing Street said the Government was open to an EU-wide returns agreement, but would not accept a quota of migrants as the price for that.

Taking a hard-line stance on immigration crime will be seen as important to convince swing voters that Labour can be trusted to stem the number of Channel crossings, which has reached more than 23,000 so far this year.

Sir Keirs meeting with Europol officials at The Hague comes ahead of a trip to Montreal, Canada, for a summit of progressive politicians.

Reports suggest he is also set to be hosted by French president Emmanuel Macron in Paris next week.

He could also be eyeing a meeting in the White House with US president Joe Biden in the coming months, whose Bidenomics and landmark green subsidy push has attracted admiration from the Opposition.
Selling off RTEs prized Dublin site will not provide the long-term sustainability the national broadcaster requires, Micheal Martin has said.

The Tanaiste said he did not know if it was the right decision to put the Montrose site in Donnybrook up for sale, but he said organisations that sold off land often ended up regretting it.

RTE is facing a funding crisis, exacerbated by a drop-off in licence fee revenue amid a negative public reaction to a summer of controversies at the broadcaster.

On Wednesday director general Kevin Bakhurst introduced an immediate recruitment freeze and a halt to discretionary spending.

Outlining potential cost-saving measures, the director general told a parliamentary committee in Dublin that said there would be a move to drive down the salaries of the top-earning presenters and he said the sale of Montrose was also under consideration.

RTE director general Kevin Bakhurst (Brian Lawless/PA)

He said a professional valuation of the site was under way, but he highlighted that a sale could potentially be complicated by the fact that several of the buildings were listed.

He said he could not rule out compulsory redundancies but would prefer to slim down the organisation by way of voluntary exits.

Asked about the potential land sell-off on Thursday, Mr Martin said: You can say sell land, that doesnt create sustainability, these are a once off, it creates a one-off capital revenue, it doesnt deal with long-term sustainability.

Ive been in government a long time and you know very often selling land is something you will regret later.

But that may not be the case here.

The crisis at RTE erupted in June when the broadcaster revealed it had not correctly declared fees to its then-highest-paid earner Ryan Tubridy between 2017 and 2022.

The furore subsequently widened as a series of other financial and governance issues emerged.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin questioned the wisdom of an RTE site sale (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Prior to its difficulties over the summer months, RTE had asked the Irish government for 34.5 million euro (29.6 million) in additional interim funding for next year.

Since then, its revenues had taken a further major hit with the broadcaster currently projecting a loss of 21 million euro by year end due to a fall in TV licence payments in the wake of the controversies.

That 21 million euro in revenue gap was on top of a deficit of seven million euro RTE had already budgeted for in 2023.

The Government has yet to decide how much extra funding it will release to the embattled organisation, but has made clear that any investment will have to be reciprocated with a significant programme of internal reform.

Tubridy and RTE are now in dispute over his contract at the broadcaster, the director general told the Oireachtas committee on Wednesday.

Mr Bakhurst said it was RTEs position that it did not owe any money to its former top presenter.

Tubridy stood down as Late Late Show host earlier this year but was continuing to present his weekday show on RTE Radio One when a furore over incorrectly disclosed payments RTE made to him erupted in the summer.

At that point negotiations over a new radio contract for Tubridy were halted and he was taken off air amid the crisis that engulfed the organisation.

Mr Bakhurst later re-entered negotiations with a view to securing Tubridys return to the airwaves on a new contract but those talks broke down in August after the director general claimed the presenter was not taking sufficient responsibility for his role in the payments controversy.

Appearing before the media committee on Wednesday, Mr Bakhurst also said there was no plan agreed for Tubridy to repay 150,000 euro he was paid in advance by RTE for future personal appearances with a commercial partner.

Ryan Tubridy (Niall Carson/PA)

Asked whether Tubridy should repay the money, Mr Martin expressed frustration that coverage of the issues at RTE was being dominated by personalities.

Im not going to get into the personalities anymore on this, Im not entirely comfortable with how all of that has been dealt with by RTE, he said.

I think theres a more fundamental issue apart from personalities altogether, which is about the governance of RTE, the lack of authority from RTE in response to all of the issues that arose during the summer, and the lack of coherence.

He added: My view of this is there has been far too much focus on the individuals.

Media committee member and Fine Gael TD Brendan Griffin caused controversy at the hearing on Wednesday when he suggested he would get better value if he used the money due for his licence fee to buy a round of drinks in the pub.

Mr Martin said he did not agree with the comments.

Brendan Griffin is an elected representative and he is entitled to make comments as an elected representative, he said.

I do not agree with that.

I believe people should pay the licence fee.

I believe in public service media, mainly because of its connection to democracy, and the importance of getting an informed perspective on a range of issues.
Sanctions on Iran related to an international nuclear treaty will be written into UK law to prevent them from being lifted next month.

Britain, along with France and Germany, said the sanctions would remain in place due to continued non-compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA) with Tehran.

The sanctions due to be kept by the three European countries, known as E3, ban Iran from developing ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons and bar anyone from buying, selling or transferring drones and missiles to and from Iran.

The measures had been due to expire on October 18 as part of the multilateral nuclear deal struck eight years ago.

The accord was negotiated in 2015 between Iran, the US, the UK, France, Germany, China, Russia and the European Union to prevent Tehran from developing atomic weapons.

A spokesman for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: Iran continues to breach its commitments under the JCPoA and advance its nuclear programme beyond all credible civilian justification.

Alongside our French and German partners, we have taken a legitimate and proportionate step in response to Irans actions.

The UK and our partners remain committed to a diplomatic solution, but Iran must now take clear steps towards de-escalation.

We are committed to preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

Under the terms of the accord, Tehran agreed to limit enrichment of uranium to levels necessary for nuclear power in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.

Former president Donald Trump took the US out of the Iran nuclear deal (Brian Lawless/PA)

In 2018, then-president Donald Trump unilaterally pulled the United States out of the pact.

Iran then began breaking the terms a year later and is now enriching uranium to nearly weapons-grade levels, according to a report by the United Nations nuclear watchdog.

The Middle East nation has violated the sanctions by developing and testing ballistic missiles and sending drones to Russia for its war on Ukraine.

FCDO officials said the decision to write the sanctions into UK law do not violate the JCPoA and was fully consistent with the procedures defined within the treaty.

London said Iran has consistently breached its obligations under the JCPoA, with the regimes enriched uranium stockpiles 18 times the limit set out in the agreement.

The UK Government said that in March 2022 and again last month Britain and its partners offered Iran viable deals that would have defused the nuclear issue but said Tehran turned it down on both occasions.

The sanctions will remain in place until Tehran is fully compliant with the deal, the E3 said.
Two former East Cleveland, Ohio, police officers were sentenced this week for stealing thousands of dollars from people they pulled over during traffic stops.

A judge ordered Willie Sims, 32, to two years in prison Thursday. His partner, Alfonzo Cole, 35, was sentenced Monday to 2 years in prison and fined $40,000, court records show.

In total, Sims and Cole stole $14,781 from six victims from July 2020 to July 2021 while on duty, prosecutors said. Cole also swiped two firearms from the victims, the Cuyahoga County prosecutor's office said in a news release.

Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Judge Michael J. Russo told Sims that his actions have "disgraced" hard-working officers.

"The one person that the public should be able to have confidence in ... would be your emergency services, your police officers, your firefighters, your EMTs," Russo said. "You've shaken the confidence of the public in the criminal justice system and the trust they put in police officers."

The two men were arrested on July 9, 2021, one day after a motorist reported to the East Cleveland Police Department that they took $4,000 during a traffic stop at a gas station, the new release said. The victim was supposed to give a statement in court Thursday but told prosecutors that he had changed his mind because he feared being "targeted."

The 21-year-old man said he was on his way to a funeral home to pay for his mothers services when the officers robbed him, according to Cleveland.com.

Willie Sims in Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court, in Cleveland, Ohio (WKYC)

Sims' and Cole's arrests are connected to a wider investigation into the East Cleveland Police Department for corruption, NBC affiliate WKYC of Cleveland reported. More than a dozen current and former officers have been charged with various crimes, including former Police Chief Scott Gardner, who is accused of fraud, theft, money laundering and tampering with records. He has denied the charges.

Prosecutors said that on July 7, 2020, Sims responded to a gas station in East Cleveland after a 52-year-old victim got into a verbal altercation with a woman.

The victim had placed a firearm he was carrying on the seat of his car, and $3,850 in cash fell out. Sims ordered the victim out of the car and searched the vehicle, prosecutors said. Sims took the $3,850, arrested the victim and had the car towed, prosecutors allege.

Four months later, on Nov. 8, 2020, Sims swiped $1,300 from a car belonging to a 34-year-old victim. The victim said in court that Sims "made every excuse" for stopping him and ordered him out of the car. When the victim returned to his vehicle, he noticed that the money was missing. The victim told the judge that he did not report the stolen money because he had drugs in the vehicle.

The victim said Sims pulled him over again two other times. During the second incident, Sims didn't steal from him, the victim said. "I didn't have anything to take, so he left," he told the court.

The third incident occurred July 8, 2021. The victim said Sims stopped him at a gas station and ordered him out of the vehicle. When he refused, Sims "roughed me up a little bit," the man said. He told the court that he was placed in the back of a police car while Sims and other officers "ransacked" his vehicle. Prosecutors said the Sims took $781 and suspected marijuana edibles from the car.

Sims apologized to his family and friends, telling the court that he was sorry "for putting myself in this position." In addition to time in prison, he was fined $40,000.

Cole was accused of stealing money, marijuana and guns from victims on four separate occasions, prosecutors said. During a traffic stop on Sept. 22, 2020, he robbed a 43-year-old victim of $850 and about $400 worth of suspected marijuana, the news release said. He then issued the driver a traffic citation. The citation included his signature and the forged signature of a police sergeant who was not at the scene, prosecutors said.

Sims and Cole each pleaded guilty last month to four counts of robbery and one count of theft in office.

Cole apologized during his sentence, WKYC reported. Russo told Cole that he "damaged everybody in the community."

"When a[n] individual who is a police officer has taken that oath, he, in essence, is in a criminal category of his own," Russo said. "He, in effect, is a traitor to the system. Hes far worse than your normal burglar or robber or criminal."
Up to 20,000 people are now feared dead after torrents of water ripped through eastern Libya  a devastating toll that could largely have been avoided, global officials said Thursday.

As rescuers in the ruined city of Derna searched underwater and under rubble, fears grew that rotting bodies could lead to a deadly outbreak of disease in the wake of this week's floods.

A precise tally of the rising number of people killed is incredibly difficult given the level of destruction and the chaotic political situation in the region, with bodies still washing up on the shore and burials being held in mass graves.

Death toll could still soar

A deluge of rainfall from Mediterranean storm Daniel caused two dams to collapse, sending waves more than 20 feet high through the heart of Derna, a port city in the country's east.

The current confirmed number of dead is 5,300, with another 10,000 missing and more than 7,000 wounded, ambulance service spokesman Osama Ali told NBC News.

Numbers have varied depending on which official has provided them, though all put the toll well into the thousands and Derna's mayor has said that it could more than triple as search teams and survivors find more bodies in the ruins.

The situation is very large and surprising for the city of Derna. We were not able to confront it with our capabilities that preceded the storm and the torrent, Mayor Abdel Moneim al-Ghaithi told Sky News Arabia on Wednesday night.

His office said that the death toll could ultimately reach 20,000  around a fifth of the citys population  based on estimates of those living in areas that were swept away.

The rainwater that gushed down Derna's mountainside and into the city has killed thousands and left thousands more missing, washing entire neighborhoods out to sea. (Muhammad J. Elalwany / AP)

Most of the deaths could have been avoided if authorities had better warning systems in place, the United Nations weather and climate agency said Thursday.

They could have issued the warnings and the emergency management forces would have been able to carry out the evacuation of the people, and we could have avoided most of the human casualties, Petteri Taalas, head of the World Meteorological Organization, told reporters in Geneva according to the AFP news agency.

The agency said this week that it issued warnings 72 hours before the dams collapsed, including contacting the Libyan authorities and making statements to the media. This led to a state of emergency being declared in the North African country.

The rainwater that gushed down Derna's mountainside and into the city has killed thousands and left thousands more missing, washing entire neighborhoods out to sea. (Jamal Alkomaty / AP)

Search teams are combing streets, wrecked buildings, and even the sea to look for bodies in Derna, where the collapse of two dams unleashed a massive flash flood that killed thousands of people. (Yousef Murad / AP)

One day before the storm hit Libya, the mayor said in a press conference that some areas surrounding the dam should be evacuated. But an emergency committee formed by the eastern governments Interior Ministry ordered curfews instead.

A spokesperson for the mayor also said out the citys dam had not be maintained since 2008 due to Libyas fractious politics.

Mohamed Manfi, president of the Presidential Council of Libya, said on X, the social network formerly known as Twitter on Thursday, that the countrys public prosecutor would open an investigation into any possible negligence that contributed to the disaster.

As some seek to find who to blame for the catastrophe, a humanitarian disaster is also unfolding for survivors.

Fears are rising of waterborne disease affecting the area, especially with rotting bodies still washing ashore. Access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene facilities will be required to prevent a further crisis within a crisis, Elie Abouaoun, country director for Libya at the International Rescue Committee, said in a statement Wednesday.

Around 30,000 people from Derna are displaced, according to the International Organization for Migration, a U.N. agency.

Satellite imagery has shown the sheer scale of the destruction wrought by the floods. A government official estimated Wednesday that 25% of the city was completely destroyed or washed away.

Rescue teams from neighboring Egypt and Tunisia have arrived, alongside crews from Turkey, Italy and elsewhere.

But their efforts have been hampered by destroyed roads, as well as the interruption of power and communications in the city.

Maxar satellite imagery of streets, neighborhoods and bridges after the catastrophic flooding that struck the Libyan coastal city of Derna. (Maxar Technologies / DigitalGlobe/Getty Images)

Libya Derna Floods (AFP - Getty Images)

Othman Abduljaleel, the eastern Libyan government's health minister, said divers were searching seawaters off the coast of Derna.

In accordance with Islamic tradition, in which bodies are buried as soon as possible, more than 3,000 have already been placed in mass graves, he said.

The hope of finding survivors has all but faded as a colossal cleanup and recovery operation begins.

The Tripoli Public Services Company began clearing rubble in Derna's previously densely populated center Wednesday in an operation running round the clock, the state-run Libyan News Agency reported.

Its staff members are divided into three teams: one to remove rubble that may have trapped victims, one to pump out stagnant standing water and one to reopen paths by removing fallen buildings and cars swept away by the floods.

Mediterranean storm Daniel caused devastating floods in Libya that broke dams and swept away entire neighborhoods and wrecked homes in multiple coastal towns in the east of the North African nation. (AP)

Flash floods in eastern Libya killed more than 2,300 people in the Mediterranean coastal city of Derna alone, the emergency services of the Tripoli-based government said on September 12. (AFP - Getty Images)

The enormous task of providing immediate aid and then rebuilding Derna is complicated by the legacies of a decade of civil conflict, which has left two rival governments ruling eastern and western Libya.

Derna is controlled by the Libyan National Army, run by Field Marshal Khalifa Hifter and based in the eastern city of Tobruk. The rest of the country is run by the Government of National Unity based in the capital, Tripoli, in the west.

This split has hampered reconstructions efforts for years  though aid workers say both sides are now talking to each other.

"Both governments have reached out to the international community requesting services and help," Tauhid Pasha, of the International Organization for Migration, told BBC Radio on Wednesday night.

"The Government of National Unity has extended its support to us and its request on behalf of the entire country and they are also coordinating with the government in the east," he said.
Honey Watson: Translating out of love for contemporary Chinese literature

09:50, September 14, 2023 By Xueyan Shi, Yu Ying ( People's Daily Online

Acting as a bridge for cultural exchange, a growing number of young translators are now making Chinese literature accessible to a broader audience. On a rainy August day, Peoples Daily Online travelled to North Yorkshire to meet the talented young translator of contemporary Chinese literature and science-fiction author, Honey Watson.

Honey Watson (Photo/Patrick Shead-Simmonds)

After Watson completed her undergraduate degree in Ancient History at University College London, she did a Masters in Chinese Literature at Peking University. In fact, she went to Peking University to study Chinese History but was so moved by Lu Xuns Diary of a Mad Man, translated by American sinologist William Lyle, that she asked the professor to change her major and started to translate on her own. Watson ended up doing a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature at NYU because of the love of Chinese Literature and the Chinese language instilled in her at Peking University, an experience she described as life-changing.

In recent years, Watson has introduced many works of contemporary Chinese literature, including Su Tongs short stories, to the West. She is currently translating a short story written by Yao Emei. Her debut science-fiction novel Lessons in Birdwatching came out in August this year. Watson is passionate about contributing to cultural exchanges between the West and the East through translation and hopes to translate more works of contemporary Chinese literature in the future.

On a journey of translating contemporary literature

Honey Watson (Photo/Patrick Shead-Simmonds)

Peoples Daily Online: As a young translator, how did you get the opportunity to translate Su Tongs work?

Honey Watson: My first task as a translator was an incredible opportunity. During the third year of my Ph.D. at NYU, one of Chinas most famous writers, Su Tong came to stay with us for a semester and he held a month- long seminar series to discuss with us the work he had written throughout his fantastic career. I provided English translations of a short story series called Midnight Stories as we went through the seminars. So, it was my first task as a translator. I was still a student and received a lot of help from professors, fellow students, and Su Tong himself. I loved translating contemporary Chinese literature and that is what I have been doing ever since.

Peoples Daily Online: What are the similarities and differences between Su Tongs novellas and the Midnight Stories that you have translated?

Honey Watson: Su Tong is most famous for his novellas. For example, Rice, My life as Emperor and obviously Raise the Red Lantern, which became an incredible movie. He is renowned for doing these character studies that tend to be about the darker side of humanity, about violent, unhappy things that happen to people. Even though these dark character studies are definitely in Midnight Stories that I had the chance to translate but what binds the series together is something more subtle.

The best way I could possibly describe this is the sensation of being quite young and seeing your toys in the dark and you cannot sleep at night. You are looking at all your toys, all these things that you love so much and bring you comfort. But in a different light, the toys suddenly start to scare you. It is a sensation that we all are aware of and have all experienced but difficult to convey from one adult to another; that is what Su Tong has managed to do in Midnight Stories. I think the story that embodies the binding characteristics of the series is Wooden Radio. It is only a few pages long about a doctor who goes home from work one day and everything just seems slightly strange to him. I am not saying anymore because that will be a spoiler and you all have to read it.

Peoples Daily Online: Su Tong has been highly praised for his tactile depiction of female characters. What are your views on his portrayal of women and female consciousness?

Honey Watson: There are many male writers, who try to write about the feminine experience, and we laugh, but Su Tong is actually really good. In the series of short stories that I translated, there is one particular story called Prettiest Angels. It is about a friendship between two middle-school-aged girls and how that friendship becomes strained and changes over time as their lives go in different directions. Ultimately it engages with the experience of growing into a feminine body, from being a child to a woman, who is someone people will look at as an object of prettiness, as something to be desired. It explores how that sort of male gaze affects their intimate friendship with each other.

Translation as a mode of rewriting

Peoples Daily Online: More recently, you translated Fan Wus novel Souls Left Behind. What does this novel explore?

Honey Watson: Souls Left Behind is a story set in 1917 about this educated young man, David. He is in an unwanted arranged marriage, runs away from home, and gets swept up in this recruiting. He ends up in France during World War I, digging trenches, fixing trains, and building railways to really help with the war efforts in France for the Allies. I cried serval times while I was translating it and I realised that as a translator you do get very close to the text. I did not know about this history of Chinese labourers during World War I. It is really an underappreciated, under-analysed, under-told part of history. So, it was a real honour for me to be able to translate that novel into English and hopefully bring this story to a much wider audience.

In terms of the process of translation, Fan Wu actually gave me homework; she was sending me off to read John Steinbeck and all these novels because for her it was very important that the translation process does not lose the sound of different vernacular accents in Mandarin. As Souls Left Behind follows this motley group of labourers from all different parts of China; they are not speaking standard Mandarin. So, we gave them all different local variations in their accents.

Book Cover of Souls Left Behind

Peoples Daily Online: Some say translation is a form of co-authorship. What relationship do you believe that the translator shares with the author?

Honey Watson: Fan Wu always described translation as a mode of rewriting to me, which I thought was really interesting. With her, the task of translation was to create a seamless, smooth reading experience and to maintain the original accents of the labourers. My conversations with Fan are about maintaining banter, maintaining the strangeness of spoken Mandarin to a foreign reader without breaking the flow of reading.

But that is not to say my translation in one text will be the same. For example, in Souls Left Behind, the characters are constantly singing.

So, at one point there is a song that is sort of carnivalesque; David is using bamboo clappers to talk. Naturally, I ended up having to divert a little bit from the original meaning to keep the rhythm and rhyme.

The task of translating Su Tong is more to bring out the character of the language that he uses. He does not use standard grammar and he refuses to punctuate in the way that you would be taught to do at school. He will sometimes change the subject halfway through a sentence and leave the meaning of something completely ambiguous. Of course, he does this completely on purpose, but when you are conveying it in English, you cannot do it in the same way; what looks like purposeful rule-breaking in Mandarin looks insane in English.

Peoples Daily Online: What work of contemporary Chinese literature are you currently translating?

Honey Watson: I am currently working on translating a story called Skeletons in the Closet in Yao Emeis novella Family Life, which is about a young lady having an affair with an older man and worrying about whether his wife is going to find out. Each story is being translated by a different translator. I am really excited to see how this collection comes together and if readers can recognise the different quirks of each translator.

Launching debut novel Lessons in Birdwatching

Book Cover for Lessons in Birdwatching

Peoples Daily Online: As well as being a translator, you are also a science-fiction author. Could you tell us about your debut novel?

Honey Watson: My debut novel, Lessons in Birdwatching, came out on 8th of August this year. I particularly thought about cultural exchange and how we think about ourselves and history. Because if you think about the world now and the way we understand different cultures and each other, there are many fundamental aspects of history and mutual understanding, which are based on misunderstandings. So, to construct a new world for my science fiction novel, I thought about will people 2,000 years from now misunderstand what we are doing today and how will they use these histories? How will they think about their own identity in relation to us as their ancestors?

Peoples Daily Online: What are your views on contemporary Chinese literature, in particular Chinese science-fiction?

Honey Watson: China is coming more into the world and people are more interested in contemporary Chinese literature. It is a discipline that is quickly developing. Whenever someone asks me what I do and I say, I am a Science-Fiction writer, I translate Chinese literature, they go Three-Body Problem; everyone loves the book. Ken Liu has done so much for Chinese Literature by translating the Three-Body Problem so well. The beauty and popularity of the Three-Body Problem is that now more and more work of current Chinese authors, particularly Chinese science-fiction authors are being translated into English, getting a really warm reception in the U.S. and the U.K. For example, authors like Xia Jia and Shuang Xuetao.

I think one of the things that really attracts readers to contemporary Chinese science-fiction is that science-fiction as a genre is really blurry around the edges. You have things like the Three-Body Problem, which is very obviously hard science-fiction, but then you also have things like Xia Jias A Hundred Ghosts Parade Tonight, which is about a boy being raised by the ghosts, a soft science-fiction with elements of folklore, mysticism and history all blending together. Xia Jia was one of the main inspirations for me to start writing science-fiction.

Peoples Daily Online: What role do you believe literature plays in cultural exchange?

Honey Watson: I would say that literature is one of the greatest contributors to cultural exchange, between different countries, different peoples, and different cultures. Not only is literature in the act of writing an individual mode of expressing the human experience and what it means to be yourself, what it means to have grown up in a certain area being through certain things, but also there is a certain universality in literature. There are always expressions of pain, of suffering, of triumph, of love, of heartbreak, which are things that we have all been through. Beyond that, storytelling itself is like the first human instinct, is it not? We want to talk. We want to talk to each other. We want to convey our expressions to each other.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang)
Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) Governor Lee Bok-hyun speaks during the Invest K-Finance: London IR 202 event at Royal Lancaster London Hotel in London, U.K., Wednesday. Courtesy of Financial Supervisory Service



Star prosecutor-turned FSS chief leads promotion of Korea's financial hubs, industries



By Anna J. Park



Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) Governor Lee Bok-hyun has showcased the strengths of the Korean financial sector to global investors during his European tour, highlighting values of credibility, innovation and openness as the core of the industry. Lee also stressed the financial authorities will further enhance the market accessibility and convenience of Korean financial markets for global investors.



"Since taking office, I've put great emphasis on learning the challenges and difficulties that foreign investors and financial companies encounter in the Korean market, and reflected them in making our financial regulations and supervisory practices better. The government is committed to further improving the regulations and practices for foreign investors and businesses to make Korea a more attractive investment destination," Lee said during his opening remarks for the Invest K-Finance: London IR 2023 at Royal Lancaster London Hotel in London, U.K., on Wednesday.



During the London event, Lee briefed the Korean government's policy directions, such as abolition of investor registration, tax exemption for foreign investment in Korean Treasury Bonds, changes in dividend distribution procedures, the forex system's enhancement and the gradual obligation of listed companies' disclosure in English, aiming to heighten accessibility to the Korean market.



Held under the title of Invest K-Finance: London IR 2023, the investor relations event was jointly hosted by the FSS, the Seoul Metropolitan Government, Busan Metropolitan City and major financial companies to reach out to global investors and promote Korea's financial hub cities and its latest policies to create favorable market conditions.



It is the first time ever that such an international investor relations event was jointly initiated by concerted efforts of the financial authority, municipalities and major private financial companies.



Participating in the investor relations session with the FSS chief in London were heads of major Korean financial firms, including Shinhan Financial Group Chairman Jin Ok-dong, Woori Financial Group Chairman Yim Jong-yong, Mirae Asset Securities Chairman Choi Hyun-man and NH Investment & Securities CEO Jeong Young-chae, among others. joined the investor relations session with the FSS chief in London. They were also joined by key officials from municipalities including Seoul's Vice Mayor for Political Affairs Kang Cheol-won and Busan's Vice Mayor for Administrative Affairs Ahn Byung-yoon.



Some 350 officials and executives from 80 global financial firms, including HSBC, BlackRock, Blackstone, BNP Paribas, JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley and UBS, also joined the event.





Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) Governor Lee Bok-hyun, center, speaks with participants during the Invest K-Finance: London IR 2023 event at Royal Lancaster London Hotel in London, U.K., Wednesday. Yonhap



The London event is the second overseas promotional tour jointly hosted by the FSS and major financial firms, since Lee took the helm of the financial supervisory agency in June 2022. Lee led the previous overseas investor relations event in Singapore in early May, meeting various global investors and convincing them of the Korean financial sector's credibility and stability.



Despite earlier concerns over the youngest FSS chief ever, Lee, who used to be a star prosecutor, has successfully transformed to a competent leader of the financial authorities, based on his expertise in financial crimes, personal affinity with financial moguls and close partnerships with heads of other financial authorities. He has also shown great confidence in his ability to communicate and earn trust from global investors, boasting of his fluent English that he honed when he passed the U.S. bar in the state of California.



Market insiders share an overall positive evaluation over Lee's efforts to closely connect with global investors by giving them clear messages about the Korean government's stable policy goals. Some participants of the event also say that it is very meaningful to have an opportunity to hear directly from the head of the Korean financial authority.



"There have been requests from global investors to continue hosting these investor relations events, as it carries a significant meaning to them to be able to listen to what the Korean authorities have to say," the FSS governor told reporters in London. "The event provided a good chance not only for the authorities but also for the major financial group chiefs and heads of financial companies to convey and share their perspectives with global investors."



Lee said he hopes a jointly hosted overseas investor relations event could be maintained through the concerted efforts by the FSS with financial companies and municipalities.





From left, Korean Re CEO Won Jong-gyu, NH Investment & Securities CEO Jeong Young-chae, Woori Financial Group Chairman Yim Jong-yong, Busan Vice Mayor Ahn Byung-yoon, Korean Ambassador to the U.K. Yoon Yeo-cheol, FSS Governor Lee Bok-hyun, Seoul Vice Mayor Kang Cheol-won, Shinhan Financial Group Chairman Jin Ok-dong, Mirae Asset Securities CEO Choi Hyun-man and Samsung Life Insurance President Park Jong-moon stand next one another during the Invest K-Finance: London IR 2023 event at Royal Lancaster London Hotel in London, U.K., Wednesday. Courtesy of Financial Supervisory Service
Apples (AAPL) iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro lines are official. The company debuted the latest models of its most important product on Tuesday at an event at its Cupertino, Calif., headquarters. And while the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are certainly improvements over their predecessors, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are clearly the more impressive devices.

Packing more powerful Pro-level chips, customizable Action buttons, and lighter titanium cases, the iPhone 15 Pro line is designed to entice consumers to shell out more cash thanks to its unique set of features.

Thats been Apples go-to iPhone strategy for a while now. This year, however, its taking an even bigger step in trying to get customers to pony up more for their top-of-the-line iPhones: raising the starting price of the iPhone 15 Pro Max an extra $100.

The Pro Max is the only iPhone getting a price increase this year. The iPhone 15 still costs $799 and the iPhone 15 Plus still rings up at $899. The iPhone 15 Pro costs $999. But the Pro Max will now set you back a whopping $1,199.

Apple was sure to point out that the $1,199 price point comes with the same amount of on-board storage as a similarly priced iPhone 14 Pro Max. Still, the fact remains youre no longer able to purchase a new Pro Max for $1,099.

To get consumers to take the leap, Apple outfitted the iPhone 15 Pro Max with the same triple-camera setup as the iPhone 15 Pro, but added a 5x optical zoom. The 5x zoom is an important piece of the Pro Maxs appeal as it allows users to zoom in closer to their subjects from further distances without the kind of distortion youd get using digital zoom.

The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. (Image: Howley)

Its a powerful tool, and one that consumers who are likely to run out to buy a new iPhone when they hit store shelves will almost certainly be tempted to buy.

"Typically, we estimate 40%-50% of iPhones sold in the first couple of quarters post launch are either a Pro or Pro Max model," UBS analyst David Vogt wrote in an investor note following Apples event.

Apple has previously offered a slightly better zoom on the iPhone 12 Pro Max than the iPhone 12 Pro, with the Pro Max offering 2.5x zoom and the Pro coming with a 2x zoom. But this is the first time that the Pro and Pro Max have such a dramatic difference in their camera capabilities.

Sign up for the Yahoo Finance newsletter.

If consumers do choose the higher priced iPhone 15 Pro Max, as BofA Global Researchs Wamsi Mohan pointed out in an investor note, it could "drive a better mix of high-end phones."

According to Morgan Stanley Researchs Erik Woodring, the iPhone 15 Pro Maxs higher price could help offset any potential issues that arise from the Chinese governments reported ban on government workers using iPhones. Chinas foreign ministry, however, says the company hasnt instituted any such bans.

"Apple continues to synthetically drive iPhone [average selling price] ASPs higher, despite no change to like-for-like pricing, which helps to offset the risk to iPhone shipments in China that we now embed in our model," Woodring wrote in an investor note following Apples event.

"The net impact of these changes is largely neutral, as the increase in iPhone ASPs more than offsets the reduction in units such that we now forecast FY24 iPhone revenue of $221B, up 9% [year-over-year]," he added.

Now Apple just has to make sure it can get enough of its latest devices into consumers hands when they go on sale Sept. 22.

Daniel Howley is the tech editor at Yahoo Finance. He's been covering the tech industry since 2011. You can follow him on Twitter @DanielHowley.

Click here for the latest technology business news, reviews, and useful articles on tech and gadgets

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
By Louise Rasmussen and Essi Lehto

COPENHAGEN (Reuters) -A luxury cruise ship that ran aground this week in a remote part of Greenland with 206 people on board was pulled free by a fishing trawler on Thursday.

The Ocean Explorer cruise vessel had been stuck since Monday in mud and silt in the Alpefjord national park, some 1,400 km (870 miles) northeast of Greenland's capital Nuuk.

"We have just successfully become free now. ... We are absolutely elated," Gina Hill, an Australian passenger on board the ship, told Reuters on Thursday.

The Ocean Explorer leaned to the side during the operation and passengers were not allowed to go outside, Hill said.

The Danish military's Joint Arctic Command confirmed that the ship had been pulled free by the Tarajoq, a trawler and research vessel that made a failed attempted to do so on Wednesday.

The Ocean Explorer will be taken to a port to assess any damage, while the passengers will be flown home, said SunStone Maritime Group, which owns the cruise vessel.

"There have not been any injuries to any person onboard, no pollution of the environment and no breach of the hull," SunStone said in a statement.

Sydney-based Aurora Expeditions, which chartered the ship and organised the cruise, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Greenland, a semi-sovereign territory of Denmark in the North Atlantic Ocean with a population of just 57,000, attracts tourists with its rugged landscape and a vast ice cap that covers much of the island.

(Reporting by Essi Lehto and Louise Breusch Rasmussen; Editing by Terje Solsvik and Mark Porter)
"Every single thing has led me to just have a big enough platform to say, 'Look at work Dian Fossey did,'" DeGeneres said about the project

Gregg DeGuire/FilmMagic Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres is returning to TV  this time focusing on saving gorillas.

On September 23, the two-hour special Saving the Gorillas: Ellens Next Adventure will premiere on Discovery Channel. The documentary follows DeGeneres, 65, as she travels to Rwanda to learn more about gorilla conservation efforts and contribute to these efforts by building the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. The special arrives over a year after the comedian ended her daytime talk show.

A trailer for the upcoming special  set to debut in the same week as World Gorilla Day  gives a glimpse at the work it took to make the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund a reality, including visits to the wild to meet gorillas face-to-face.

In the clip, DeGeneres travels into the woods with her wife, Portia de Rossi, and a group of conservationists to observe a family of gorillas.

Related: Ellen DeGeneres' Gorilla Conservation Campus Honors Stephen 'tWitch' Boss with Tree Planting

"Nothing keeps you more present than sitting with gorillas," says DeGeneres in a voice-over in the trailer. The video then cuts to a shot of the conservationists grabbing each others' hands while a gorilla kisses its child on the head. Another voice says, "There's nothing more special in the world than seeing an exchange of love."

The creation of the Ellen DeGeneres Campus stemmed from de Rossi's search for a "nice birthday gift for her wife," which transformed into the couple embarking on "one of the largest architectural and landscaping projects in the history of Rwanda," according to a release from the Discovery Channel.

As the special will show, DeGeneres and her team had to tackle numerous obstacles, including the COVID-19 pandemic, volcano eruptions, and earthquakes, before the campus could open.

Related: Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi's Relationship Timeline

"It all culminates in a once-in-a-lifetime experience for them, their family, and friends as they celebrate the opening of The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund," the release adds. "It is an adventure filled with laughter, tears, and experiences none of them ever dreamed they'd have."

"Every single thing has led me to just have a big enough platform to say, 'Look at work Dian Fossey did,'" DeGeneres said in a statement, referring to the pioneering primatologist, conservationist, and author of Gorillas in the Mist, Dian Fossey.

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.

Since opening in February 2022, the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund has hosted over 40,000 visitors, per Discovery Channel's release. The campus has also hosted more than 7,500 local school children, "providing them with the opportunity to learn more about the biodiversity in their backyard and have hands-on experiences in nature."

Saving the Gorillas: Ellen's Next Adventure premieres on Sept. 23 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on the Discovery Channel and on Sept. 24 on Animal Planet, Max, and Discovery+.



For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
Madonnas prayers have been answered!

Thirty-four years after a commercial featuring her hit song Like A Prayer was banned, the controversial clip finally aired again on Tuesday, September 12, during the MTV Video Music Awards.

The 1989 video was part of a $5 million endorsement deal for the Material Girl. However, the commercial was canceled after one broadcast, and the full-length music video was dropped by MTV due to protests from religious groups over its imagery of burning crosses and the seduction of a saint.

Despite the original two-minute commercial reaching an estimated 250 million viewers in over 40 countries, Pepsi pulled the commercial in April 1989 and canceled its sponsorship contract with Madonna.

Now more than three decades later, Pepsi allowed the commercial to air again to celebrate the companys 125th anniversary.

Madonna Through the Years-286

Since releasing her debut album in 1983, Madonna has rarely been out of the public eye  and shes never stopped delivering floor-filling pop hits. Born in Bay City, Michigan, in 1958, Madonna  whose full name is Madonna Louise Ciccone  started dancing as a kid after convincing her dad to let her study []

34 years ago I made a commercial with Pepsi to celebrate the release of my song Like a Prayer, Madonna commented on X (formerly known as Twitter) as she posted the clip which first aired at the 31st Grammy Awards in February 1989.

Like A Prayer was nominated for Video of the Year at the 1989 MTV VMAs and won Viewers Choice.

YouTube

The commercial was immediately canceled when I refused to change any scenes in the video where I was kissing a black saint or burning crosses, she added. So began my illustrious career as an artist refusing to compromise my artistic integrity. Thank you @pepsi for finally realizing the genius of our collaboration.

She closed her post writing, Artists are here to disturb the peace.

Doting Mom! Get to Know Madonnas Six Children

Like a mama! While Madonna is best known for being the Queen of Pop, she considers motherhood to be one of her greatest achievements. Its possible to be an entertainer and a good mother! the Hung Up songstress captioned a throwback photo of her kids in January 2016. Too bad we dont live in a []

The commercial begins with Madonna sitting in a chair and telling the camera, Go ahead, make a wish. The footage then switches to her singing and dancing in the street while singing Like A Prayer, before the camera switches back to Madonna in the chair watching herself perform on a projector screen with a can of Pepsi in her hand.

In honor of the 40th anniversary of Madonnas quintuple platinum self-titled debut album in 1983, the new version of the ad ends with the caption, Celebrating 40 years of disrupting the status quo.

Like A Prayer was Madonnas seventh No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and is the title track of her fourth studio album. The LP also hit the top of the Billboard 200 album chart and was certified quadruple platinum.

The 65-year-old icon is now preparing for her Celebration Tour which kicks off October 14 in London. Following the European leg, which runs through December, the North American dates begin December 13 in New York City. The tour ends April 24, 2024, in Mexico City.

The launch of the tour was delayed and dates were rescheduled after Madonna was hospitalized with a bacterial infection in June.
Danelo Cavalcante, the convicted murderer who spent two weeks on the run after a daring prison break, survived by eating watermelon from a farm and hiding his fecal matter and had planned a carjacking to flee the state, officials have revealed.

Cavalcante, convicted of killing his ex-girlfriend in front of her two young children, escaped Chester County Prison in Pocopson Township on Aug. 31. After two weeks of an exhaustive search, the 34-year-old was captured Wednesday morning.

After he was caught, Cavalcante confessed to investigators his plans to slip out of the country and divulged how he survived on the lam, Robert Clark, the supervisory deputy U.S. Marshal in the eastern district of Pennsylvania, said on NBC News Top Story with Tom Llamas Wednesday night.

Early in the investigation he stated that he had found watermelons on a watermelon farm, and he was living off watermelon, he was drinking from the stream, he was moving at night only," Clark said.

Despite multiple sightings that left Chester County on high alert, he hid by hunkering down under thick, practically impassable brush. He also changed his appearance after he took a backpack from a residence, found a razor inside and shaved.

He went so far as to hide his fecal matter so that law enforcement wouldnt be able to determine the spots where he was bending down, Clark said.

Cavalcante told authorities after his arrest that he had intended to carjack somebody using a rifle he stole from a garage Monday evening.

His end game was to carjack somebody, thats why he needed to obtain a weapon, thats why he held onto that rifle," Clark said. "He said the law enforcement presence was overwhelming in the area of the second perimeter and he decided he wanted to carjack somebody and head north either towards Canada or he intended to get to Puerto Rico."

"That was his plan in the next 24 hours so there wasnt a better time for us to locate and apprehend him," he added.

Clark noted the environmental factors in the search were arduous: extreme heat, thick vegetation and sprawling wilderness.

Ultimately, when we conducted a post-arrest interview, he admitted to those factors. There were times, at least three times, where law enforcement officers were almost stepping on him, and the area was saturated so he felt that he needed to move locations, Clark said.

Danelo Cavalcante Captured (Pennsylvania State Police via Getty Images)

He explained that the goal in nabbing Cavalcante was to set up a tactical perimeter, cut off resources, prevent communication to the outside world and stress out the fugitive  "make him make mistakes, make him move."

That plan finally came to fruition Wednesday.

A U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration aircraft picked up a heat signature believed to be Cavalcante around 1 a.m. Wednesday and teams flocked to the area. But severe weather moved in and the aircraft had to leave the area. Tactical teams held that inner perimeter overnight until they could continue tracking the heat signal in the morning.

Shortly after 8 a.m. Wednesday, a Border Patrol tactical unit (BORTAC) and Pennsylvania State Police Team closed in.

"He was given verbal commands to come out of the hiding spot that he was in. He did not. He actually started crawling away and at that point the tactical canine was release," Clark said.

That's when Yoda, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois BORTAC K9, bit Cavalcante on the crown of the head and a lower extremity.

Yoda, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois, aided in the arrest of Danelo Cavalcante. (U.S. Customs and Border Protection)

"I'm sure Cavalcante was in excruciating pain. He then submitted to some of the verbal commands and the tactical teams were able to take him into custody," Clark said.

Pennsylvania authorities held a news conference Wednesday morning announcing the long-awaited capture. Photos of his arrest showed Cavalcante handcuffed and wearing a Philadelphia Eagles hoodie.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said on NBCs "TODAY" show Thursday morning that he was "incredibly proud" not only of law enforcement, but of Chester County residents who "remained vigilant."

"There was no loss of life, there was no threat in the community, thank God, and ultimately at the end of the day we found ourselves in the position of seeing the best of law enforcement. Law enforcement at every level  state, local and federal  coming together to apprehend this suspect, to capture him without incident."

Cavalcante was convicted Aug. 16 of first-degree murder for fatally stabbing a 33-year-old former girlfriend Deborah Brandao and had been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. He is also wanted in his native Brazil in connection with a 2017 slaying there.

Since his prison break, he has been hit with a felony escape charge.

He was moved Wednesday afternoon to a maximum security prison in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.

Our nightmare is finally over, and the good guys won, Deb Ryan, the Chester County district attorney, said Wednesday after Cavalcante was taken into custody.
Souffled egg sandwich at Fox in the Snow. The coffee shop and restaurant will open a new location in Dublin later this month.

Fox in the Snow has announced an opening date for its new location in Historic Dublin.

The new location, the restaurant's fourth in central Ohio, will open on Sept. 23 at 38 W. Bridge St. next to J. Liu.

The former 1960s post office first caught the eyes of Fox in the Snow owners Lauren Culley and Jeff Excell nearly seven years ago.

"Last year, this place presented itself again, and it was a no-brainer for us," said Culley. "From the outside, it still very much looks like a post office from the '60s. But inside, it very much looks like a Fox in the Snow."

The 2,400-square-foot cafe came together rather quickly compared to its other locations, said Culley.

But the Dublin location will have the same look and overall feel that Fox in the Snow fans are familiar with, as well as its menu of drinks, pastries, sandwiches and more, made in-house.

The first 100 customers will receive a free, limited-run Fox in the Snow Dublin t-shirt at the cafe's opening.

The first Fox in the Snow opened in 2014 in an old garage on North 4th Street in Italian Village. The success of the cafe was followed by second and third locations in German Village and New Albany, and the sandwich shop Icarus, which closed earlier this year.

Hours are Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

More openings: First Bojangles restaurants in Columbus, Canton now open

tmoorman@dispatch.com

@taijuannichole

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Fox in the Snow to open fourth location in Dublin later this month
 Iwan Baan

The Perelman Performing Arts Center, dedicated at the World Trade Center site in New York City today, is an architectural marvela floating cube with a translucent facade of patterned marble that glows like a light box at night. The striking design is so complex that even its architect did not know if he could pull it off. In an interview with ELLE DECOR to be broadcast later this month at the Marmorac marble and stone trade fair in Verona, Italy, the architectJoshua Ramus of the New Yorkbased firm REX, who worked on the design for nine yearsshared the dramatic journey toward creating the $500 million, 129,000-square-foot arts center. It was some combination of love and panic, Ramus admits.



ELLE DECOR: The commission to design the Perelman Performing Arts Center was very significant for you personally, wasnt it?

Joshua Ramus: Yes. I lived only a few blocks away from the World Trade Center site on 9/11, and so it had strong personal meaning to me. It is an extraordinary honor to design a performing arts center on that site. It was in the original master plan to use the optimistic aspects of art as a counterpoint to the commemoration across the street. Seeing it completed at this point is a very emotional experience.

ED: The building is situated across the street from the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. How did that location influence the design?

JR: It drove a lot of our thinking about the design. We wanted to do something that would be pure and elegant. During the day, it would have a kind of sobriety that is respectful of its context. But at night, the translucent marble facade glows and asserts a kind of respectful individuality.

ED: Everyone is talking about that unusual marble facade. How did you make that happen?

JR: Its 12-millimeter-thick slabs of Portuguese marble. The stone has ferrous oxide, which renders the marble a cream color, as opposed to white. That gives the marble the quality of amber when you shine light through it. It also has vibrant gray veining, which we enhanced with a double crosscut technique, which makes it quite fragile. Now anyone who has ever had a marble countertop and spilled a glass of wine on it knows that marble is quite fragile. It draws water into it. To create a high-performance facade, we laminated the stone between layers of insulated glass.



ED: Why did you choose such a challenging material for the exterior?

JR: Its a beautiful antidote to the severity and austerity of the buildings form. The marble is so alive and organic, and in a way humanistic. It would have looked too severe without it since the building is a cube. This stone is very warm, and the patterns are intricate. The more you stare at it, the more you see.

Iwan Baan

ED: And yet the design was very risky, wasnt it?

JR: It was incredibly complex. The stone we wanted was from a very small quarry. There was a risk it might run out, or change [in appearance if it came from another spot]. Most people dont notice but at the Washington Monument in D.C., there is a weird watermark about a third of the way up on the obelisk. Thats because of the Civil War. They started building it before, and when they came back after the war, the stone had shifted in color. And to make things even more difficult for us, because of the process of cutting the marble and laminating it, we had to commit to the composition of the first 20 percent of the facade before knowing what the rest would look like. With stone, you must book-match the pattern. Its like a butterfly image or Rorschach. It needs to be symmetrical. So how could we be sure of a beautiful result [with only 20 percent of the stone]? The thing that saved us is that the veining throughout the quarry was very consistent. To compose the image, we created digital images of every tile.

ED: Did you have a Plan B in case it did not work?

JR: We had a design alternative from the outset, and to be honest we advanced both at our own cost, because we were the ones trying to persuade the client to do the stone facade. They always knew that if for some reason we hit a roadblock from a technical standpoint [and needed a backup], it wouldnt be catastrophic to the project. At one point, the owner of the quarry called and said I needed to go to Portugal. He didnt tell me why, and I was really nervous. I flew over and he drove me down a steep incline of mud into the quarry. It was extraordinarily beautiful. He stopped the car, pulled the emergency brake, and turned to me. The quarry, he told me, she wants to do the job.

ED: What inspired the idea for the design?

JR: I went to Yale as an undergraduate and saw Gordon Bunshafts design for the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library. I think its one of the greatest buildings ever built, and it is made of an amber marble that also has ferrous oxide in it.

ED: Now that the building has been unveiled, what do you hope people will take away from the design?

JR: This is a building for the performing arts and that begets a lot of mystery. The building must conform to pretty much anything artists can conceive of, and there is a radical flexibility to the interior. By cloaking the building in marble, we created a kind of mystery box. You cant orient yourself to the outside and thats intentional. It helps to create a suspension of disbelief. I totally fell in love with the marble material. You simply dont know what its going to give you, and you must be prepared to move and change with it. I found that really poetic.

You Might Also Like
Organizations are calling for donations to help those impacted by the devastating floods in Libya that have killed over 5,000 people and have injured and displaced thousands more.

In eastern Libya, the death toll from the floods stemming from Mediterranean storm Daniel has topped 6,000, a health official said Wednesday.

Another 10,000 people are believed to be missing, according to Tamer Ramadan, Libyan envoy for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

MORE: Ways to help the victims of the Morocco earthquake

Derna, the worst hit area, had a quarter of the city wiped out after two dams burst and the it was declared a disaster zone, with electricity and communication having been cut off.

President Joe Biden said in a statement Tuesday the U.S. is "sending emergency funds to relief organizations and coordinating with the Libyan authorities and the U.N. to provide additional support."

Continue reading for more on the relief efforts and organizations accepting donations to help Libyan flood victims.

PHOTO: In this photo provided bye the French Army, soldiers prepare disaster relief for Libya, on Sept. 13, 2023, at the Istres military base, southern France. (Etat-Major des Armees via AP)

UNICEF

UNICEF, an organization within the United Nations that assists children, announced it is expediting 1,100 hygiene kits, vital medical supplies for 10,000 people and essential clothing kits for 500 children.

"UNICEF Libya expresses deep condolences to all people who lost family members in East Libya due to floods," UNICEF Libya Representative Michele Servadei said, according to UNICEF. "We stand ready to support relief operations for the displaced, children and in hospitals. We are in touch with relevant authorities."

To donate, people can visit the donations page on its website.

PHOTO: Members of Libya's Youth Hostels Association unload medical aid that arrived by plane at al Abraq airport, after a powerful storm and heavy rainfall hit Libya, in Al Abraq, Libya, Sept. 12, 2023. (Ayman Al-Sahili/Reuters)

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

The Libyan Red Crescent, an arm of the IFRC, announced it is aiding in efforts to provide essential aid to people in flooded areas of the country.

The organization is providing first aid and medical assistance, helping with rescue efforts, evacuating families and providing emergency shelter, food and water for kids.

Visit here to donate to the IFRC to help victims of the floods in Libya.

MORE: Flood death toll in eastern Libya reaches 5,300 with many more missing, officials say

PHOTO: Workers unload relief items from a military cargo aircraft arriving from Qatar to provide support on the ground, following a powerful storm and heavy rainfall in the country, at Benina International Airport, in Benghazi, Libya, on Sept. 13, 2023. (Imad Creidi/Reuters)

GlobalGiving

GlobalGiving announced that donations will initially help survivors with their immediate needs for food, fuel, clean water, medicine and shelter, before funding transitions to assist with "recovery efforts led by local, vetted organizations in the impacted areas to restore damaged homes, rebuild infrastructure, and more as needs evolve."

Visit here to donate to GlobalGiving.

How to help the flood victims in Libya originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Walter Isaacsons new biography, Elon Musk, which reveals new details about the private and professional lives of the worlds richest person, hit stores Tuesday.

Isaacson, 71, the bestselling author of biographies of Steve Jobs and Albert Einstein, shadowed Musk, 52, for two years, sitting in on meetings and walking factory floors.

From launching rockets to popularizing electric vehicles, the hefty tome chock-full of insights gleaned from interviews with Musk, his extended entourage and his adversaries is a layered portrait of the mercurial entrepreneur behind SpaceX and Tesla.

In addition to Musks inner life, the biography chronicles the turbulent takeover of X, formerly Twitter, and his secretive creation of a new artificial intelligence company as well as Musks personal demons and his relationships, including a secret third child with the artist known as Grimes, whose real name is Claire Boucher.

Elon Musks rocky relationship with his father, Errol

The biography contains multiple references to the emotional scars inflicted by Musks father, Errol, who is described as emotionally and physically abusive.

Musk lived with his father from age 10 to 17. Isaacson says the turbulent upbringing caused Musk to become a tough yet vulnerable man-child with an exceedingly high tolerance for risk, a craving for drama, an epic sense of mission and a maniacal intensity that was callous and at times destructive.

A friend of Musk's told Isaacson that when Musk agreed to meet his father in 2016 after being estranged, he saw Musks hands shaking.

There are certain people who occupy a demons corner of Musks head space. They trigger him, turn him dark, and rouse a cold anger. His father is number one, Isaacson writes.

This cover image released by Simon & Schuster shows "Elon Musk" by Walter Isaacson.

Musks father is a conspiracy theorist who denied President Donald Trumps election loss and the 9/11 terrorist attacks and spread disinformation about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines. Errol Musk also made racist comments about Black leaders in South Africa in 2022, according to the biography: With no Whites here, the Blacks will go back to the trees, he wrote.

Elon Musks obsession with population collapse

The biography also reveals that Musk found out his father had had a second child with his former stepdaughter Jana Bezuidenhout in July 2022 in an email. "The only thing we are on Earth for is to reproduce, Errol Musk wrote. "If I could have another child I would. I can't see any reason not to."

Musk has expressed his concern about the future of humanity and called on people to have children. He has said his decision to father children with three mothers was driven by his fears of population collapse.

He feared that declining birth rates were a threat to the long-term survival of human consciousness, Isaacson wrote.

Beware Elon Musk's demon mode

Grimes says Musk has a demon mode. Demon mode is when he goes dark and retreats inside the storm in his brain, she told Isaacson.

Demon mode causes a lot of chaos, she said, but it also gets things done.

In November 2022, Twitter had its first brush with it. In response to an advertising boycott campaign led by online activists, Musk ordered Twitter to ban users who were urging advertisers to boycott the platform even though such a move would fly in the face of his professed dedication to free speech.

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, speaks during a South by Southwest panel in Austin in 2018. SpaceX is planning a rocket engine production facility near Waco, Musk said on social media Saturday.

Most people at Twitter had seen Musk be arbitrary and insensitive, Isaacson wrote, but they had not been exposed to the cold fury of his trance-like darkest persona nor learned how to ride out the storm.

Soon Musk moved on to other things.

Elon Musk jokes about buying Twitter to elect Trump in 2024

On the Friday after the Twitter board accepted Musks offer, he flew to Los Angeles to have dinner with his four older boys. They were puzzled by his decision to buy Twitter. Just from their questioning, it was clear that they didnt think it was a great idea, Isaacson wrote.

Musk responded: I think its important to have a digital public square thats inclusive and trusted. Then, after a pause, he said: How else are we going to get Trump elected in 2024?

President Donald Trump with Elon Musk, center, and Steve Bannon at a White House meeting with business leaders in 2017.

Isaacson says it was clearly a joke but Musk had to reassure his children that he was just kidding. With Musk, it was sometimes hard to tell, Isaacson wrote.

Musk told his biographer he was not a fan of Trump and in fact expressed disdain for the former president, whom he dismissed as a con man and kind of nuts.

Elon Musk is not a Joe Biden fan

But Musk isnt much of a Joe Biden supporter, either.

When he was vice president, I went to a lunch with him in San Francisco where he droned on for an hour and was boring as hell, like one of those dolls where you pull the string and it just says the same mindless phrases over and over, Musk told Isaacson.

His dislike for Biden intensified in August 2021 when the president held an event for electric vehicles at the White House and invited the heads of GM, Ford and Chrysler and the leader of the United Auto Workers Union, but not Musk.

Elon Musk's problem with the woke mind virus

Musk has often expressed disdain for what he calls woke mind virus  a derogatory term for progressive politics.

When Isaacson asked him why, Musk said: Unless the woke-mind virus, which is fundamentally antiscience, antimerit and antihuman in general, is stopped, civilization will never become multiplanetary.

Isaacson writes that Musks reaction was in part because of his daughter Jennas gender transition and her embrace of radical socialist politics. In 2022, Jenna disowned Musk.

Elon Musks Bill Gates blowup

Bill Gates went to see Elon Musk in 2022, hoping he could get him to give away more of his money to philanthropic endeavors. Musk had a bone to pick with Gates, the Microsoft co-founder had shorted Tesla stock, betting it would decline in value. Gates, who thought that the supply of electrical cars would exceed demand and prices would fall, had paid a hefty price, losing $1.5 billion at the time.

Bill Gates attends the World Leaders' Summit "Accelerating Clean Technology Innovation and Deployment" session on day three of COP26 on November 02, 2021 in Glasgow, Scotland.

I apologized to him, Gates told Isaacson. Once he heard Id shorted the stock, he was super mean to me, but hes super mean to so many people, so you cant take it too personally.

Musk told Isaacson: How can someone say they are passionate about fighting climate change and then do something that reduced the overall investment in the company doing the most?"

Elon Musks brutal relationship with Amber Heard

Musk has had many romantic entanglements but says the most agonizing was with Amber Heard while she was divorcing Johnny Depp.

It was brutal, said Musk, who dated Heard from January to December 2017.

Musk agreed to be a consultant on Heard's movie Machete Kills so he could meet her. That happened a year later when Heard asked for a tour of SpaceX.

Amber Heard leaves the Martinez Hotel during the 72nd annual Cannes Film Festival on May 15, 2019 in Cannes, France.

"I guess I could be called a geek for someone who can also be called a hot chick," Heard said.

Isaacson said Musk took her for a ride in a Tesla and she decided that he looked attractive for a rocket engineer.

In April 2017, Musk flew to Australia, where Heard was filming Aquaman. He told her she reminded him of Mercy, his favorite character in the video game Overwatch. So she designed a costume to role play the character for him.

The relationship ended on a trip to Rio de Janeiro when Heard supposedly locked herself in their room and claimed Musk had taken her passport. Heard told Isaacson she got rather dramatic during the argument but says the two made up afterward.

Elon Musk demanded eels and a hovercraft for Talulah Riley wedding

In September 2010, after Musk in a top hat married actress Talulah Riley in a Vera Wang princess gown at Dornoch Cathedral, a 13th-century church in the Scottish highlands, the pair threw a party at nearby Skibo Castle.

Musks request for the festivities: There shall be a hovercraft and eels, a reference to a 1970 Monty Python sketch in which John Cleese plays a Hungarian using a faulty phrasebook.

The request proved to be challenging because a permit is required to transport eels from England to Scotland, but Riley said: In the end, we did have an amphibious little hovercraft and eels.

Musk and his friends also crushed three junked cars using an armed personnel carrier.

Elon Musk shared a photo of Grimes C-section

When X was born, Musk circulated a photo he took of Grimes during her C-section without her consent. Among those who received the photo were her father and brothers.

It was Elons Aspergers coming out in full, she told Isaacson. He was just clueless about why Id be upset.

According to the biography, Musk and Grimes secretly had a third child named Techno Machanicus  nicknamed Tau  via a surrogate.

Elon Musk and Grimes arrive for the 2018 Met Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Also, Shivon Zilis, an executive at Musks company Neuralink, had Musks twins in 2021 via in vitro fertilization after he asked to be her sperm donor so the kids would be genetically his.

He really wants smart people to have his kids, Zilis said.

The twins were born when Grimes and Musk were expecting their second child. Grimes did not know at the time.

Elon Musk sets record straight on Starlink

The biography claims Musk told his satellite communications unit, Starlink, to disable Starlink satellite communications near Russian-occupied Crimea last year to thwart a Ukrainian attack on Russian warships.

The Ukrainians THOUGHT coverage was enabled all the way to Crimea, but it was not, Isaacson said in a post on X. They asked Musk to enable it for their drone sub attack on the Russian fleet. Musk did not enable it, because he thought, probably correctly, that would cause a major war.

Musk said on X that he refused a Ukrainian request to activate the coverage. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and conflict escalation, he wrote.

Elon Musk wants his kids to live on Mars

In December 2022, Musk who rarely takes vacations, flew with Grimes and X to Lanai, Hawaii, to stay at the home of his billionaire mentor Larry Ellison.

Ellison had built an observatory on the island with a 3,000-pound telescope. Musk had the telescope pointed at Mars and lifted X up to look through the eyepiece.

This is where you are going to live someday, Musk told X.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson: Top takeaways from revealing biography
First Vice Finance Minister Kim Byoung-hwan gives a welcoming speech during the 2023 Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Ministerial Conference's business forum at Ananti Hilton Busan hotel, Thursday. Courtesy of Ministry of Economy and Finance



By Yi Whan-woo



BUSAN  Korea will bolster cooperation with the African private sector, in line with a market-driven economic vision addressed by President Yoon Suk Yeol, First Vice Finance Minister Kim Byoung-hwan said Thursday.



In a welcoming address at a private business forum of the 2023 Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Ministerial Conference in Busan, he said Korea will focus on facilitating the African private sector's participation in official development assistance (ODA) policy.



"The Korean government, since last year (after Yoon's inauguration), is firmly holding onto the principle of free market economy to restructure the country's economic fundamentals to be centered on the private sector," the vice minister said. "Accordingly, our cooperation with international partners, including African countries, will be based on such policy direction."









Specifically, the ODA through the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) will be "diversified to make direct support for the private enterprises in accordance with their needs," Kim said.



The EDCF is a program aimed at helping build basic infrastructure in developing countries.





Participants to the 2023 Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Ministerial Conference's business forum listen to the welcoming speech by First Vice Finance Minister Kim Byoung-hwan at Ananti Hilton Busan hotel, Thursday. Courtesy of Ministry of Economy and Finance
DERNA, Libya (AP)  The death toll in Libya's coastal city of Derna has soared to 11,300 as search efforts continue following a massive flood fed by the breaching of two dams in heavy rains, the Libyan Red Crescent said Thursday.

Marie el-Drese, the aid group's secretary-general, told The Associated Press by phone that a further 10,100 people are reported missing in the Mediterranean city. Health authorities previously put the death toll in Derna at 5,500. The storm also killed about 170 people elsewhere in the country.

The flooding swept away entire families in Derna on Sunday night and exposed vulnerabilities in the oil-rich country that has been mired in conflict since a 2011 uprising that toppled long-ruling dictator Moammar Gadhafi.

Here's a look at where things stand:

WHAT HAPPENED IN LIBYA?

Daniel, an unusually strong Mediterranean storm, caused deadly flooding in communities across eastern Libya, but the worst-hit was Derna. As the storm pounded the coast Sunday night, residents said they heard loud explosions when two dams outside the city collapsed. Floodwaters gushed down Wadi Derna, a valley that cuts through the city, crashing through buildings and washing people out to sea.

A U.N. official said Thursday that most casualties could have been avoided.

If there would have been a normal operating meteorological service, they could have issued the warnings," World Meteorological Organization head Petteri Taalas told reporters in Geneva. "The emergency management authorities would have been able to carry out the evacuation.

The WMO said earlier this week that the National Meteorological Center issued warnings 72 hours before the flooding, notifying all governmental authorities by email and through media.

Officials in eastern Libya warned the public about the coming storm, and on Saturday, they ordered residents to evacuate coastal areas, fearing a surge from the sea. But there was no warning about the dams collapsing.

HOW DOES CONFLICT IN LIBYA AFFECT THE DISASTER?

The startling devastation reflected the storms intensity, but also Libyas vulnerability. Oil-rich Libya has been divided between rival governments for most of the past decade  one in the east, the other in the capital, Tripoli  and one result has been the widespread neglect of infrastructure.

The two dams that collapsed outside Derna were built in the 1970s. A report by a state-run audit agency in 2021 said the dams had not been maintained despite the allocation of more than 2 million euros for that purpose in 2012 and 2013.

Libya's Tripoli-based prime minister, Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah, acknowledged the maintenance issues during a Cabinet meeting Thursday and called on the Public Prosecutor to open an urgent investigation into the dams' collapse.

The disaster brought a rare moment of unity, as government agencies across the country rushed to help the affected areas.

While the Tobruk-based government of eastern Libya is leading relief efforts, the Tripoli-based western government allocated the equivalent of $412 million for reconstruction in Derna and other eastern towns, and an armed group in Tripoli sent a convoy with humanitarian aid.

WHAT'S HAPPENING NOW?

Derna has begun burying its dead, mostly in mass graves, said eastern Libyas health minister, Othman Abduljaleel on Thursday.

More than 3,000 bodies were buried by Thursday morning, the minister said, while another 2,000 were still being processed, He said most of the dead were buried in mass graves outside Derna, while others were transferred to nearby towns and cities.

Abduljaleel said rescue teams were still searching wrecked buildings in the city center, and divers were combing the sea off Derna.

Untold numbers could be buried under drifts of mud and debris, including overturned cars and chunks of concrete, that rise up to 4 meters (13 feet) high. Rescuers have struggled to bring in heavy equipment as the floods washed out or blocked roads leading to the area.

Libya's eastern based parliament, The House of Representatives, on Thursday approved an emergency budget of 10 billion Libyan dinars  roughly $2 billion  to address the flooding and help those affected.

HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE BEEN KILLED?

As of Thursday, the Libyan Red Crescent said that 11,300 people have been killed, and a further 10,100 are reported missing.

However, local officials suggested that the death toll could be much higher than announced.

In comments to the Saudi-owned Al Arabia television station on Thursday, Derna Mayor Abdel-Moneim al-Ghaithi said the tally could climb to 20,000 given the number of neighborhoods that were washed out.

The storm also killed around 170 people in other parts of eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Um Razaz and Marj, the health minister said.

The dead in eastern Libya included at least 84 Egyptians, whose remains were transferred to their home country on Wednesday. More than 70 came from one village in the southern province of Beni Suef. Libyan media also said dozens of Sudanese migrants were killed in the disaster.

IS HELP REACHING SURVIVORS?

The floods have displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, according to the U.N.s International Organization for Migration, and several thousand others were forced to leave their homes in other eastern towns, it said.

The floods damaged or destroyed many access roads to Derna, hampering the arrival of international rescue teams and humanitarian assistance. Local authorities were able to clear some routes, and humanitarian convoys have been able to enter the city over the past couple of days.

The U.N. humanitarian office issued an emergency appeal for $71.4 million to respond to urgent needs of 250,000 Libyans most affected. The office, known as OCHA, estimated that approximately 884,000 people in five provinces live in areas directly affected by the rain and flooding.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said Thursday that it has provided 6,000 body bags to local authorities, as well as medical, food and other supplies distributed to hard-hit communities.

International aid started to arrive earlier this week in Benghazi, 250 kilometers (150 miles) west of Derna. Several countries have sent aid and rescue teams, including neighboring Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia. Italy dispatched a naval vessel on Thursday carrying humanitarian aid and two navy helicopters to be used for search and rescue operations.

President Joe Biden said the United States would send money to relief organizations and coordinate with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support.

___

Associated Press journalists Samy Magdy in Cairo and Jack Jeffery in London contributed to this report.

___

This story was updated to correct the Derna mayors name. He is Abdel-Moneim al-Ghaithi, not Abdel-Raham al-Ghaithi.
NEW YORK (AP)  Longtime Starbucks leader Howard Schultz is stepping down from the company's board of directors, the coffee chain announced.

Schultz is credited for transforming the Seattle-based business into the coffee giant it's known as today. His departure from the board is part of a planned transition, the company said Wednesday.

In a prepared statement Wednesday, Schultz said his gratitude to (Starbucks employees) and the millions of stakeholders and customers that have helped Starbucks endure is beyond measure. He added that he looks "forward to supporting this next generation of leaders to steward Starbucks into the future as a customer, supporter and advocate in my role as chairman emeritus.

After purchasing Starbucks in 1987, Schultz headed the company as CEO until 2000 and again between 2008 and 2017. He later came out of retirement to return as interim CEO while the company searched for a new chief executive last year  but bid farewell to that title after Laxman Narasimhan officially took the reins in March.

Also on Wednesday, Starbucks announced that Wei Zhang, who most recently served as senior advisor to e-commerce company Alibaba Group, has been elected to the board effective Oct. 1.

For its third fiscal quarter ended in July, Starbucks reported record revenue  with same-store sales (or sales at stores open at least a year) notably jumping 46% in China, reversing last years declines due to COVID restrictions. Still, the chain's revenue and same-store sales were lower than expected as North American store traffic slowed.

The Seattle-based coffee giant said its overall revenue for the period rose 12% to $9.2 billion in the quarter  slightly under to analysts' expected revenue of $9.3 billion, according to FactSet. Meanwhile, the companys net income rose 25% to $1.1 billion, or 99 cents per share. Excluding restructuring costs, the company earned $1 per share  higher than the 95 cents analysts forecast.

In recent months, Starbucks and Schultz also came under fire over allegations that the company violated labor laws amid workers' unionization efforts. During his time as interim CEO, Schultz was called on by Sen. Bernie Sanders, a Vermont Independent and chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, and others to testify.

In a March appearance before the committee, Schultz insisted the coffee chain hasnt broken labor laws and is willing to bargain with unionized workers  but was also firm in his stance that the company provides good wages and benefits and doesnt need a union. The National Labor Relations Board previously charged Starbucks with hundreds of labor law violations, including firing labor organizers and illegally closing unionized stores.
Washington  Republican Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah announced Wednesday he will not run for reelection to a second term in the Senate in 2024, calling for a "new generation of leaders" beyond President Biden and former President Donald Trump to assume power.

"I spent my last 25 years in public service of one kind or another," Romney said in a video posted on social media. "At the end of another term, I'd be in my mid-80s. Frankly, it's time for a new generation of leaders."

Romney, 76, was the Republican nominee for president in 2012 and easily won election to the Senate in Utah in 2018. He also served as the governor of Massachusetts from 2003 to 2007 and ran for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008.

"While I'm not running for reelection, I'm not retiring from the fight," he said. "I'll be your United States senator until January of 2025."

In 2020, Romney became the first senator in U.S. history to vote to convict a member of his own party in an impeachment trial when he voted to convict Trump of abuse of power. He was the only Republican to vote to convict Trump in that case.

He also voted to convict Trump of inciting an insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, though more Republicans crossed the aisle in that vote.

Sen. Mitt Romney faces reporters during a news conference where he discussed his intention not to seek reelection on Capitol Hill in Washington on Sept. 13, 2023. / Credit: LEAH MILLIS / REUTERS

Romney told reporters Wednesday afternoon that the potential for Trump to be on the ballot next year did not sway his decision.

"I think the people in Utah don't all agree with me at the posture I took with regards to Donald Trump. But they respect people who vote their conscience and I appreciate that," he said. "I don't have any question in my mind that I would have won if I'd run again. I just don't think we need another person in their 80s."

In his statement, Romney suggested Mr. Biden and Trump should follow his lead and step aside for younger candidates.

"We face critical challenges  mounting national debt, climate change, and the ambitious authoritarians of Russia and China. Neither President Biden nor former President Trump are leading their party to confront them," Romney said. "The next generation of leaders must take America to the next stage of global leadership."

Those comments echoed sentiments he expressed to CBS News last week.

"I think we'd all be better off if we had younger people the next generation," he said at the Capitol. "I had hoped that we'd have a new generation who'd be running for president on the Democrat side and the Republican side. I wish both of the leaders, both Trump and Biden, were going to stand aside and let a new person come in."

Romney said he spoke with Mr. Biden on Wednesday, and that the president "was very generous and kind in his comments." After he retires from the Senate, he said he plans to focus on getting more young people involved in the political process and voting.

Speaking to the Washington Post ahead of Wednesday's formal announcement, Romney said the political dynamics in Washington were also a factor in his decision to step aside when his term expires.

"It's very difficult for the House to operate, from what I can tell," he said. "And two, and perhaps more importantly, we're probably going to have either Trump or Biden as our next president. And Biden is unable to lead on important matters and Trump is unwilling to lead on important matters."

Nikole Killion contributed reporting.

Libya flooding: Entire families swept away, more than 5,300 killed

House GOP meets on Biden impeachment probe, White House calls claims baseless

Producer Price Index for August comes in higher than expected
BALTIMORE (AP)  Until she graduated from high school in June, Aaliyah Gonzalez had a strict 11 p.m. curfew. But her parents decided to loosen the rules after proudly watching her walk across the graduation stage to collect her diploma.

With college on the horizon, she took advantage of her newfound freedom and stayed out late to celebrate the start of summer with friends. Thats how Aaliyah ended up at Baltimores Brooklyn Day celebration, now best known as the site of a mass shooting that turned an annual block party into a scene of terror and bloodshed.

Aaliyah, 18, was among two people killed by gunfire July 2. Another 28 victims were injured, most of them teens and young adults.

The Baltimore Police Department continues to face significant scrutiny over its lackluster response in the hours leading up to the shooting. A report released last month found that officers and supervisors repeatedly ignored warnings about the crowd swelling to nearly 1,000 people, including some who appeared armed and disorderly, in the courtyard of south Baltimores Brooklyn Homes public housing complex.

Aaliyah would have never been out that late, but heres the thing  she earned it. She did everything her father and I ever asked, her mother, Krystal Gonzalez, told members of Baltimore City Council during Wednesdays oversight hearing. I had no idea about this block party, but I will tell you what a mother experienced that night.

Gonzalez said she rushed to the scene in disbelief after getting a call about the shooting. She played a video on her cellphone in which shes heard screaming for her daughter against a backdrop of flashing police lights.

Seeing her daughters body sprawled beneath a white sheet, Gonzalez said, she was unable to process what was happening. She worried Aaliyah was uncomfortable lying on the concrete, that she wouldnt be able to breathe inside the body bag.

Thats what grief does, she told the council members, her voice often breaking during several minutes of emotional testimony.

Gonzalez said her pain only deepened when she found out about the police departments failures.

Knowing that there were calls  endless calls for help  and no one showed up, she said. People did not care enough to check on them, to check on her. Thats not right.

Council members called the hearing Wednesday to continue an ongoing public discussion about what went wrong that night  and how to address a devastating spike in youth violence.

Some city leaders have repeatedly questioned whether the police response would have been different if the party took place in a more affluent, majority-white neighborhood. Theyve pointed to a long history of poverty and neglect in Brooklyn, a majority-Black community in the southwest corner of Baltimore. And they promised to pour more resources into the area, saying the shooting served as a wakeup call.

Officer indifference may have compromised the awareness, planning and response to Brooklyn Day prior to the large crowds arriving, department leaders wrote in their after action report about the shooting. Members of the community can view such indifference (whether real or perceived) as a form of bias.

During Wednesdays hearing, Acting Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley again acknowledged the lack of care displayed by some officers. The department has already reassigned some command-level supervisors and launched disciplinary actions in response to the shooting, which marks the latest example of an embattled law enforcement agency failing to build community trust.

Five teenagers have been arrested, including four who are charged with shooting into the crowd. The latest arrest was announced Wednesday morning and officials say the investigation is ongoing with more arrests likely.

While she sought to make city leaders understand her pain, Gonzalez said no amount of understanding could make her family whole again. She said she recently went back to work while her other children are struggling to navigate their own futures after losing Aaliyah, a talented artist and honor roll student with big dreams.

Sometimes I have to hug myself to imagine her hugging me back, Gonzalez said. This is my life.  Im forced to adjust.
JERUSALEM (AP)  Israel's foreign minister on Wednesday said that Israel would not cave in to foreign dictates on its treatment of the Palestinians  in comments that came in a meeting with his Norwegian counterpart coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the Oslo peace accords.

The remarks by Foreign Minister Eli Cohen underscored the deterioration of Mideast peace efforts since the historic interim peace deal. Substantive negotiations have not taken place in years, and Israel is led by a far-right government opposed to Palestinian statehood.

Israel will not submit to external dictates on the issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Cohen said in the meeting with Norwegian Foreign Minister, Anniken Huitfeldt, according to a statement from his office.

Cohen told Huitfeldt that Israel will continue to work toward normalizing relations with other countries in the Middle East. Israel reached diplomatic accords with four Arab countries under the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords in 2020 and is now hoping to establish official ties with Saudi Arabia.

But in an apparent reference to the Palestinians, who have criticized the Abraham Accords, Cohen said "states and actors that don't participate in expanding and deepening the circle of peace and normalization will simply be left behind and become irrelevant.

Huitfeldt described her meeting with Cohen as interesting.

According to her office, she expressed her concern to Cohen over Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The two also discussed the possibility of renewing Israeli-Palestinian dialogue, she said.

Cohen's rejection of international input on the conflict came exactly three decades after Israel and the Palestinians signed an interim peace deal on the White House lawn.

The Oslo accords, negotiated secretly in Norway, were meant to pave the way to a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians.

The notion that Israel is not going to accept any externally imposed settlement on the Palestinian issue was essentially the opposite of what the Oslo process reflected, said Aaron David Miller, an American diplomat who helped negotiate the agreement. Miller is now a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

A handshake between Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Palestinian Liberation Organization leader Yasser Arafat, conducted under the beaming gaze of U.S. President Bill Clinton, marked the signing of the agreement, which created the Palestinian Authority and set up self-rule areas in the Palestinian territories. The Palestinians seek the West Bank, east Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip  areas captured by Israel in 1967  for a future state.

Several rounds of peace talks over the years all ended in failure, and 30 years later, peace seems more distant than ever.

Under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus far-right government, Israel has stepped up settlement construction in the occupied West Bank, with government ministers openly vowing complete annexation of the territory.

The West Bank is in the midst of the most violent stretch of Israel-Palestinian violence in nearly 20 years, while the Palestinian Authority is weak and unpopular. Meanwhile, the Hamas militant group, which opposes Israel's existence, has controlled Gaza since taking control of the area from the Palestinian Authority in 2007.

Given the current conflict, any peacemaking efforts by the two sides arent anywhere near being ready for prime time, Miller said.
ISTANBUL (AP)  An American researcher who spent 11 days stuck in a Turkish cave after falling ill said Thursday that he thought he would die there before a complex international rescue operation got him out.

Mark Dickey, 40, appeared relaxed as he spoke to reporters at a hospital in Mersin, southern Turkey, where he is recovering from his ordeal.

Asked if he ever gave up hope while trapped 1,000 meters (more than 3,000 feet) underground, Dickey replied, No. But theres a difference between accurately recognizing your current risk against giving up.

You dont let things become hopeless, but you recognize the fact that Im going to die.

Dickey fell ill on Sept. 2 with stomach bleeding while mapping the Morca cave in southern Turkeys Taurus Mountains. He vomited blood and had lost large amounts of it and other fluids by the time rescuers brought him to the surface on Tuesday.

What caused his condition, which rendered him too frail to climb out of the cave on his own, remained unclear.

Dressed in a blue T-shirt and with an IV line plug attached to his hand, the experienced caver from Croton-on-Hudson, New York, thanked the Turkish government for acting quickly, decisively to get the medical supplies needed to sustain him down into the cave.

He also praised the international effort to save him. Teams from Turkey and several European countries mounted a challenging operation that involved pulling him up the caves steep vertical sections and navigating through mud and cold water in the horizontal ones.

Rescuers had to widen some of the caves narrow passages, install ropes to pull him up shafts on a stretcher and set up temporary camps along the way before the operation could begin. Medical personnel treated and monitored Dickey as teams comprised of a doctor and three to four other rescuers took turns staying by his side at all times.

This honestly was an amazing rescue, Dickey, who also is an experienced underground rescuer, said. This was an amazing example of international collaboration, of what we can do together as a country, as a world.

Commenting on the insane public focus on his rescue, he added: I really am blessed to be alive. Its been a tough time. While I was trapped underground  I was trapped for 11 days  I learned that I had a nation watching, hoping, praying that I would survive: Turkey.

In a later interview with ABC's Good Morning America show, Dickey recalled the moment he cleared the cave's entrance. I was happy to get to the surface and see those stars and smell the fresh air. That was a good moment, he said.

He also paid tribute to fiancee Jessica Van Ord, who accompanied him on the expedition and left to obtain medical products that could be administered in the cave. She made the climb out, she made the climb back in with the medical supplies, Dickey told the broadcaster. The second she came into that cave camp at a thousand meters with four bags worth of fluid, that was a game changer.

She saved my life, period," he continued. "She is one hell of a woman, one hell of a caver, one hell of a rescuer, one hell of a paramedic. She's awesome.

Dickey will continue his recovery at Mersin City Hospital. Laughing and joking during his brief media conference on Thursday, he said he would definitely continue to explore caves.

Theres risk in all life and in this case, the medical emergency that occurred was completely unpredicted and unknown, and it was a one-off, he said, adding that he would love to return to Morca cave, Turkeys third deepest, to complete his task.

Around 190 people from Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, Poland and Turkey took part in the rescue, including doctors, paramedics and experienced cavers.

The Italian National Alpine and Speleological Corps said the rescue operation took more than 100 rescuers from around 10 counties a total of 60 hours and that Dickey was in the cave for roughly 500 hours.
A mission that launched ancient human remains to space has raised ethical concerns among archaeologists who have questioned its scientific value.

On 8 September, two fossil remains of ancient human relative species Homo naledi and Australopithecus sediba were launched in a commercial spaceflight aboard Virgin Galactics spaceship VSS Unity.

The archaeological remains were dubbed the oldest astronauts to travel to space.

The fossils, held in a carbon fibre container, were first taken in a mothership from Spaceport America to an altitude of about 13-15km, from which VSS Unity separated and ignited its rocket engine for the climb to suborbital space.

The journey of these fossils into space represents humankinds appreciation of the contribution of all of humanitys ancestors and our ancient relatives, said Lee Berger, from the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa.

Without their invention of technologies such as fire and tools, and their contribution to the evolution of the contemporary human mind, such extraordinary endeavours as spaceflight would not have happened, said Dr Berger, who played a major role in the archaeological discovery of the two species.

One of the fossils was the clavicle of Australopithecus sediba  a candidate species that likely gave rise to our own genus Homo  and the other one was a thumb bone of Homo naledi.

Both the fossils were uncovered at archaeological sites in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage site just outside of South Africas Johannesburg.

The fossils were carefully chosen not only for their symbolic importance, but also because they are among the most documented fossils of hominins in existence, with casts, scans and images available across the world due to our scientific and open access efforts, said Bernhard Zipfel, curator of collections at the University of the Witwatersrand.

However, not everyone seems to be happy about the Virgin Galactic mission.

While gaining permit for the launch, documents revealed the fossils were categorised as paleontological and not human remains.

The main issue experts have raised on social media were that such fossilised bones should be treated and handled with respect as they are not just scientific specimens but also the remains of humanitys collective ancestors.

I am horrified that they were granted a permit. This is NOT science.https://t.co/2rKZ41CUPa  Sonia Zakrzewski  (@Sonia_Zak) September 9, 2023

Biological anthropologist Alessio Veneziano described in a thread on X, formerly Twitter, that there were four main issues with the mission, including the lack of scientific justification for the flight as well as ethical issues surrounding respect for human ancestral remains.

Dr Veneziano also expressed concerns about the special access Dr Berger had to the fossils that few other researchers share, adding that the space mission may also be a misrepresentation of the practice of palaeoanthropology.

It speaks loudly about entitlement and privilege in a field where many people have difficulties accessing fossil material for proper scientific research, said the X account of the Advances in Human Evolution, Adaptation and Diversity conference.

Why does sending hominin specimens into space raise so much indignation? A short thread with some of the reasons that appear from reading people's opinions. (1/5)



Read and comment to add your thoughts!#HumanEvolution #PaleoAnth #BioAnth #BioArch #hominins #AHEAD23 pic.twitter.com/GpzklSoyLm  AHEADmeeting (@AHEADmeeting_) September 11, 2023

Archaeologist Sonia Zakrzewski from the University of Southampton in the UK echoed the same sentiments on X, calling the mission 21st century colonialism.

I am horrified that they were granted a permit. This is NOT science.https://t.co/2rKZ41CUPa  Sonia Zakrzewski  (@Sonia_Zak) September 9, 2023

I am horrified that they were granted a permit. This is NOT science, Dr Zakrzewski said, adding that the Virgin Galactic launch seemed like a publicity stunt.

The Independent has reached out to Virgin Galactic and Dr Berger.
A 17-year-old Texas high school student has been suspended due to his loc hairstyle, in the same week the state passed a law banning discrimination based on hairdos.

Darresha George told KTRK that her son Darryl was issued several disciplinary notices before he was suspended from Barbers Hill High School in Mont Belvieu, 30 miles east of Houston, for wearing his hair in a loc ponytail.

Ms George told the news site her son had been told to remain away from his high school in the same week that Texas passed the CROWN Act on 1 September, which banned race-based hair discrimination in workplaces and schools.

I know hes upset, and he feels terrible about it, Ms George told KTRK.

The school districts dress and grooming code states that male students hair should not extend below their eyebrows, ear lobes or the top of their t-shirt collar.

A school district spokesperson told KTRK that the districts code was not in conflict with the CROWN Act.

Ms George told CNN that the school had initially reprimanded her son for his loc hair and for wearing frayed jeans to school.

When he refused to cut his hair, Darryl was given an in-school suspension, she said. He received another five days of suspension on 8 September, she said.

Darryl George, a 17-year-old high school student in Texas, has been suspended for wearing a loc hairstyle, his mother says (Darresha George/KTRK)

Ms George has said that her son would not cut his hair, and has hired a lawyer and is considering legal action against the school district.

Her attorney Allie Booker told CNN that the grooming code discriminates against Black students.

The Independent has contacted Barbers Hill school district and the Georges attorney for comment.

In 2020, Barbers Hill student DeAndre Arnold sued the district after he was ordered to cut his locs in order to be able to finish his education and attend graduation.

The lawsuit led to legislation being passed in Texas enshrining the rights of students to wear their hair without discrimination.

Locs, sometimes referred to as dreadlocks, can be worn in braided, coiled, twisted or palm-rolled styles.
National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby is seen answering questions during a press briefing at the White House in Washington on Sept. 13 in this captured image. Yonhap



The United States is concerned about growing defense cooperation between North Korea and Russia, a National Security Council (NSC) official said Wednesday, adding the U.S. will take appropriate steps if necessary to counter any potential arms deal between the two countries.



John Kirby, NSC strategic communications coordinator, underscored that Russian support for North Korea's illicit nuclear and ballistic missile programs would be of "significant concern" to the U.S.



"In a similar fashion to the concern we already expressed about the burgeoning defense relationship between Iran and Russia, we obviously have concerns about any burgeoning defense relationship between North Korea and Russia," Kirby told a press briefing at the White House as North Korean leader Kim Jong-un held a rare bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Russia.



Pyongyang and Moscow have yet to release details of the Kim-Putin meeting but said Russia will help North Korea develop satellites.



"Certainly, any arrangement that would improve North Korea's military capabilities certainly would be of significant concern to us," Kirby told the press briefing.



The NSC official said the U.S. does not have full visibility on the outcome of the Kim-Putin meeting, but noted Russia is seeking to sign a potential arms deal with North Korea.



"What's going on in the Donbas and down in the south (of Ukraine) is a gunfight as you've heard me say before  heavily dependent on artillery. So it's entirely likely that that's at least one type of ammunition that Mr. Putin is seeking," he said.



"I have said on the record a week or so ago that we expect there could be other types of munitions, but we just don't have perfect visibility on that," added Kirby.



He also warned of possible consequences for North Korea, saying, "If they decide to move forward with some sort of arms deal, obviously, we will take a measure of that and we will deal with it appropriately."



"As I have said before we continue to urge North Korea to meet its public commitments not to support Russia's war on Ukraine. No nation on the planet, nobody should be helping Mr. Putin kill innocent Ukrainians," Kirby added.









Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated that any weapons deal between Pyongyang and Moscow would violate numerous United Nations Security Council resolutions.





Russia's President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un attend a meeting at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the far eastern Amur region, Russia, Sept. 13. Reuters-Yonhap
Social media platforms are facing more scrutiny from lawmakers over children's online safety. (Photo illustration by Jonathan Raa/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

California lawmakers on Wednesday passed a bill aimed at combating child sexual abuse material on social media platforms such as Facebook, Snapchat and TikTok.

The legislation, Assembly Bill 1394, would hold social media companies liable for failing to remove the content, which includes child pornography and other obscene material depicting children.

"The goal of the bill is to end the practice of social media being a superhighway for child sexual abuse materials," Assemblywoman Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland), who authored the legislation, said in an interview.

The bill unanimously cleared the Senate on Tuesday. The Assembly unanimously approved an amended version of the bill on Wednesday and it's now headed to the governors desk for consideration.

Efforts to pass a package of bills to make social media safer for young people faced stiff opposition from tech industry groups such as TechNet and NetChoice who feared the legislation would lead to platforms being overly cautious and pulling down more lawful content.

Child safety groups clashed with the tech companies over proposed amendments to the bill they worried would make it easier for social media platforms to avoid liability for failing to remove child sexual abuse materials. Wicks made changes to the bill last week, delaying the date it would take effect to January 2025. The amendments also give social media companies more time to respond to a report about child sexual abuse material and a way to pay a lower fine if they meet certain requirements.

Tech groups, including NetChoice and TechNet, still opposed the bill after Wicks made amendments, telling lawmakers it would still face legal challenges in court. The groups along with business organizations such as California Chamber of Commerce urged lawmakers to delay passing the bill until next year.

"The bill in print misses the mark and will surely result in litigation," the groups said in a floor alert sent to lawmakers.

Other legislation targeting social media platforms died earlier this month, underscoring the pushback lawmakers face from tech companies. The battle has extended beyond the California Legislature, spilling into the courts. Lawmakers passed childrens online safety legislation in 2022, but groups like NetChoice have sued the state to block the law from taking effect. X, formerly Twitter, sued California last week over a law that aimed to make social media platforms more transparent about how they moderate content.

Wicks said she's confident her bill will withstand any potential legal challenges.

"These companies know they have to take more of a proactive role in being part of the solution to the problem," she said. "This bill is going to force that conversation and require it."

Under the bill, social media companies would be barred from knowingly facilitating, aiding, or abetting commercial sexual exploitation. A court would be required to award damages between $1 million and $4 million for each act of exploitation that the social media platform facilitated, aided, or abetted.

Social media companies would also be required to provide California users a way to report child sexual abuse material theyre depicted in and respond to the report within 36 hours. The platform would be required to permanently block the material from being viewed. If the company failed to do so, it would be liable for damages.

Social media companies could be fined up to $250,000 per violation per violation. The fine would be lowered to $75,000 per violation if they meet certain requirements, including reporting the child sexual abuse material to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) and participating in a program called Take It Down that helps minors pull down sexually explicit images and nude photos.

The program assigns a digital fingerprint to the reported image or video so platforms can find child sexual abuse materials. Under the amended version of the bill, they would have 36 hours to remove the materials after receiving this digital fingerprint from the NCMEC. Companies are already required under federal law to report child sexual abuse material to NCMEC and major online platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Snap and TikTok participate in the Take It Down program.





Get the best of the Los Angeles Times politics coverage with the Essential Politics newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Senate Bill 14 would classify sex trafficking of minors as a "serious" felony under California's penal code, which triggers the state's "three strikes" law that allows prosecutors to pursue life sentences in some cases. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press)

The California Legislature approved legislation Wednesday to increase penalties for child sex traffickers, a seemingly simple bill that turned into one of the most divisive issues this year in the state Capitol.

Senate Bill 14 would classify sex trafficking of minors as a "serious" felony under California's penal code, which triggers the state's "three strikes" law that allows prosecutors to pursue life sentences in some cases.

Read more:California Democrats reverse course after killing bill to stiffen penalties for child sex trafficking

The proposal is on its way to Gov. Gavin Newsom after earning unanimous approval in the Assemblyand Senate.

The legislation earlier this year caused a rift within the Democratic caucus over how best to solve the growing issue of trafficking in California without penalizing victims.

Proponents of SB 14 have argued that state law is too lenient on child sex traffickers and that prosecutors need stronger tools to send people to prison for longer sentences. While a sex trafficking conviction can carry up to a 12-year prison sentence  or 15 years to life if the crime involves factors such as force, fear, coercion or violence  some anti-trafficking activists say those sentences are rare and that traffickers are often let out early only to repeat the crime.

Read more:California child sex trafficking bill that divided Democrats clears hurdle

"SB 14 will serve to protect future generations by stopping people from engaging in this horrific crime," said state Sen. Shannon Grove, the Bakersfield Republican who wrote the bill. "SB 14 will send a direct message to those committing this horrific crime of selling our children for sex in the state of California that we will no longer stand by and tolerate this and you will serve a lengthy prison sentence."

Despite SB 14 sailing through the Senate at the start of the year, disagreement among Assembly Democrats in July nearly tanked the measure, when the high-profile Assembly Public Safety Committee rejected it over concerns that it could ensnare trafficking survivors in the justice system.

The decision caused public outrage and led to death threats against the committee's chair, Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D-Los Angeles), who ultimately reversed course, called foranother hearing and quickly passed the bill. The uproar prompted both Newsom and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister) to weigh in and encourage a resolution. Democrats who initially opposed the bill apologized, while dozens added their names to the measure as co-authors and issued public statements in support of SB 14.

"Good to see. Thank you, @RobertRivas_CA for your leadership," Newsom wrote on social media after SB 14 passed the Assembly.

"I think it's long overdue. I think that it is time that we stand with the children," said state Sen. Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park). "This is a message to all victims that we're here, we hear you, we see you and we want to help you."

Minor amendments to the bill adopted earlier this month address concerns that it could hurt survivors with an amendment to "exempt human trafficking victims from the serious felony provision," a win for more progressive Democrats and prison reform advocates.

"When proposed policies punish more individuals than intended, the collateral damage to specific communities can cause a domino effect of irreparable injustice," Jones-Sawyer said during an Assembly debate before he voted for SB 14.

A list of anti-trafficking organizations supported the stiffer penalties, along with religious groups, law enforcement and district attorneys. Opponents included advocates who've pushed for changes to the criminal justice system, including the American Civil Liberties Union, public defenders and the California Coalition for Women Prisoners.

Senate Bill 14's passage is a rare victory for Republicans in a state Legislature dominated by Democrats who have in recent years passed laws that roll back tough-on-crime policies of the 1980s and 90s that ushered in a wave of mass incarceration. But it also reveals vulnerable cracks in the criminal justice reform movement at a time when concerns over crime are rising and Democrats face criticism in how they're addressing it.

Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) said the larger debate over SB 14 was more about expanding for the first time in many years the state's three-strikes law, which prison reform groups blame for filling prisons with Black and brown Californians.

"This conversation over SB 14 wasn't whether child trafficking is serious," Bryan said. "Of course it's serious."

Newsom has until Oct. 14 to sign or veto SB 14 and hundreds of other bills.

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
HONG KONG (AP)  China's Commerce Ministry has protested a decision by the European Union to investigate exports of Chinese electric vehicles, saying Thursday that it is a protectionist act aimed at distorting the supply chain.

The EU announced Wednesday it will probe government subsidies provided to Chinese automakers that the EU contends keep EV prices artificially low. China has become the biggest market for electric vehicles after investing billions in subsidies to gain an edge. Automakers like BYD and Geely have quickly gained market share after launching sales of EVs to Japan and Europe.

What I want to emphasize is that the investigation measure that the European Union plans to take is to protect its own industry in the name of fair competition," Commerce Ministry spokesperson He Yadong said at a briefing in Beijing.

Its naked protectionist behavior that will seriously disrupt and distort the global automotive industrial chain and supply chain including the European Union, and will have a negative impact on ChinaEU economic and trade relations, he said.

In a statement, the ministry urged the EU to create a fair, non-discriminatory and predictable market environment.

In China, EV prices start as low as 100,000 yuan ($14,500) for a compact SUV with a 400-kilometer (250-mile) range on one charge.

On Thursday, Cui Dongshu, head of the China Passenger Car Association, also opposed the investigation in comments written on his WeChat social media account.

I personally firmly oppose the EUs evaluation of Chinas new energy vehicle exports, not because it has received huge state subsidies, but because Chinas industrial chain is highly competitive, Cui said.

He said that China had phased out new energy subsidies in 2022.

Cui urged the EU to take an objective view of the development of Chinas electric vehicle industry instead of using what he said are economic and trade tools to increase the costs of Chinese electric vehicles in Europe.
United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain attends a union rally held near a Stellantis factory. Without a new contract by Thursday night, a strike may be called against Stellantis, Ford, and General Motors. (Mike Householder / Associated Press)

A few aspects of the ongoing labor-management dispute in the automobile industry are different from previous negotiations.

Under the leadership of President Shawn Fain, the United Auto Workers union is negotiating simultaneously with all of the Big Three automakers  General Motors, Ford and Stellantis, maker of Chryslers and Jeeps, among other brands  instead of choosing one as the principal counterparty and letting it set the standard for the other two to follow.

Then there's the underlying issue of the industry's transition from gas-fueled to electric vehicles, and its clear intention to base the factories for the latter in nonunion states, posing a real threat to union membership.

We have been absolutely clear that the switch to electric engine jobs, battery production and other EV manufacturing cannot become a race to the bottom.

UAW President Shawn Fain

But a few things haven't changed. For one thing, economic issues  wages, health and pension benefits, job security and so on  are at the center of the contract negotiations.

For another, the framing in the media and among politicians treats this contract negotiation as one in which the union is making outrageous demands and management is trying desperately to hold the line.

This is the oldest of chestnuts in the depiction of labor-management relations. The New Yorker's great press critic, A.J. Liebling, observed during a New York newspaper strike in 1963 that "the employer, in strike stories, always 'offers,' and the union 'demands.'"

The stories never say that the employer "'demands' that the union men agree to work for a two-bit raise; the union never 'offers' to accept more." The reason, Liebling conjectured, is that "'demand,' in English, is an arrogant word; 'offer,' a large, generous one."

The same slant has crept into coverage of the current talks, possibly because of a long-ingrained reflex among reporters and editors. "The United Auto Workers union is bending on its pay-increase demands," the Wall Street Journal wrote Monday, referring to what it might otherwise have referred to as a change in the union's offer to accept a 30% pay increase over four years, down from 40%.

By the same token, a strike is consistently described as a unilateral action threatened by the union. Here's the Detroit Free Press, reporting on the possible economic toll of $5.6 billion over 10 days in the case of "a strike against the three Detroit automakers by 143,000 United Auto Workers members."

Read more:Column: Employers and governments aren't protecting workers from extreme heat. Unions might

Yet of course there are two sides of the table in this negotiation. The strike could just as easily be described as one provoked by the Big Three auto manufacturers by their refusing to meet the UAW's, er, offer.

Adam Johnson of the Lever pinpoints an especially egregious example of media slant from NBC News, which reported that a strike "could mean car prices will soar even higher. Never mind that the most direct impact of the contract talks will be on 146,000 workers, who could end up with better wages, benefits and job security, even if they might have to sacrifice pay while off the job. (A UAW strike fund provides $500 a week after the eighth day of a strike.).

It's proper to note that the negotiation deadline of Thursday at 11:59 p.m. is not arbitrary, but marks the expiration of the current contract. The companies are in effect demanding that their workers stay on the job after expiration, and the union has  as is its right  refused the demand.

This framing is a PR gift to the automakers. That's especially so because the inconvenience and economic pain from a strike will be localized, concentrated in the Midwest, where most of the 146,000 unionized workers of the Big Three live and work. Most Americans won't feel it and probably haven't paid much attention.

That's different from the case of the United Parcel Service contract talks earlier this summer. Millions of Americans from coast to coast had regular contact with UPS drivers, relied on them for deliveries, had a feel for how hard they worked amid the stifling heat inside their non-air-conditioned trucks, and thus had reason to examine management's position critically. UPS as a company couldn't depend on public support for taking a hard line against the workers.

The situation may be different for the auto industry. The $5.6-billion impact estimated from a 10-day strike wouldn't count for much  just over two hundredths of a percent of a national economy estimated at $23.32 trillion. Even if it lasted a whole year, that metric would work out to a drag of less than 1% on national gross domestic product.

The main reason is that the auto industry and the U.S. economy have come a long way from the 1950s, when GM President Charles E. Wilson could say, "For years I thought what was good for our country was good for General Motors, and vice versa. (The quote is typically reduced, inaccurately to a rather more arrogant-sounding: Whats good for GM is good for America.)

The U.S. economy has diversified beyond raw manufacturing since then, and the footprint of the auto industry itself as a component of the manufacturing sector has shrunk. Domestic production peaked in 1999 at more than 13 million vehicles, compared with 10.1 million last year.

Read more:Column: A Teamsters strike against UPS could remake the union movement for the better

As economist Joseph Brusuelas points out, since the 1950s the U.S. has seen "the growing economic importance of the service sector, the rise of the technology industry and the financialization of the broader American economy," all factors in reducing the economic impact of an automotive stoppage.

In the most notable auto strike of the postwar years, the 113-day strike against GM in 1945-46, some 320,000 autoworkers downed tools when the U.S. labor force comprised more than 40 million workers. Today it's 166 million. Union membership overall has struggled with a long-term decline  down from a peak of 33.4% of the workforce in 1945 to about 10% now, composed of 33% in the public sector and only about 6% in the private sector.

In the 1945-46 strike, the UAW sought a raise of 30% and obtained an increase of 17.5%. That was also the strike that established the UAW strategy, crafted by its president, Walter Reuther, of maximizing pressure on a single company (in that case, GM) to establish a benchmark contract.

It's true that an extended strike would have significant local and sector effects. It might push Michigan, an auto manufacturing hub, into recession, and could force layoffs of workers in the steel, glass and electronics industries.

What's seldom mentioned in coverage of the contract talks  except by the UAW  is their corporate financial context. The Big Three as a group have not been this financially flush in nearly a decade. GM and Stellantis notched combined profits of $25.7 billion last year (Ford booked a nearly $2-billion loss, largely from writing down its investments in EV and autonomous vehicle firms). The three companies have reported combined profits of about $20 billion in the first half of this year, which ended June 30.

The three have been generous in passing profits on to shareholders through stock buybacks. GM has repurchased more than $3 billion in shares since mid-2022 and issued dividends to shareholders of $397 million last year. Ford made buybacks of nearly $500 million and paid dividends of about $2 billion last year, and Stellantis paid out about $4.36 billion to shareholders last year and has announced a $1.6-billion buyback program for this year.

Yet the idea persists that the UAW's contract stance is the governing factor in the effect of a work stoppage. An op-ed a few days ago in Politico by the editor of an automotive magazine took the UAW to task for resisting the industry's transition to EVs and therefore, he implied, exacerbating the climate crisis.

Read more:Column: Julie Su would be a perfect Labor secretary. That's why Big Business hates her

The author paid lip service to the UAW's concern that the automakers are conniving to use the EV transition to undermine union membership, but the trend deserves more than lip service. The automakers have taken steps to site their EV battery plants in Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee. All three are right-to-work (that is, anti-union) states.

The UAW is also painfully aware that building an EV requires only two-thirds as much labor as does a conventional gas-fueled car, largely because it has fewer moving parts to forge and assemble.

But that doesn't mean it's against electric vehicles. As labor historian Erik Loomis observes, the reason the UAW is concerned about the EV transition "is not an antipathy to electric cars. The union doesnt care what kind of cars it makes. It wants union-made cars."

By that token, the transition isn't being hobbled by the UAW, but by auto managements that think they can create a nonunion workforce on the EV side without the union catching on.

As it happens, the UAW successfully organized a plant that manufactures batteries for GM vehicles in Ohio (not a right-to-work state), and obtained a 25% raise for 1,100 workers there just a couple weeks ago. But the prospect of further flight of manufacturing facilities to southern anti-union states has motivated the union's drive for safeguards against plant closings in the North and Midwest.

We have been absolutely clear that the switch to electric engine jobs, battery production and other EV manufacturing cannot become a race to the bottom," Fain said in June, after the Biden administration granted Ford a generous $9.2-billion loan to build the battery plants in Kentucky and Tennessee.

Fain flayed the White House for failing to attach to the loan safeguards to protect existing jobs. "These companies are extremely profitable and will continue to make money hand over fist whether theyre selling combustion engines or EVs," he said. "Yet the workers get a smaller and smaller piece of the pie."

Fain pointed out that in recent years, GM closed its Lordstown, Ohio, plant and replaced those jobs in a battery plant in Indiana "with jobs that pay half of what workers made at the previous Lordstown plant."

We know how this story will unfold, at least in the next day or two. The companies, sitting on increased profits, will plead poverty and maintain that the UAW's demands will have vast, harmful effects on the economy and the environment. The union will press for better wages and working conditions for members who have seen their numbers, wages and benefits whittled away for years, just like those of millions of others in the American job force.

Meanwhile, the managerial class and its shills in the political elite will wring their hands about how uppity the workers have become since the outset of the pandemic, and how undeserving they are of a living wage. Which side will you be on?

Get the latest from Michael Hiltzik

Commentary on economics and more from a Pulitzer Prize winner.

Sign me up.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Photo of what is believed to be the scene of the crime (Gwinnett County Police)

Five adults and a teenager were arrested on murder charges after the decomposing body of a female was discovered in the trunk of a car outside a Korean spa called Jeju Sauna in Duluth, Georgia.

Investigators say that the victim had been starved and beaten for weeks and was in such bad condition that detectives initially had a difficult time determining the victims gender.

Police say that the shocking discovery was made after one of the suspects, who was in hospital, asked a family member to collect something from the car when the grim discovery was made and the police were called.

The discovery sparked a homicide investigation and detectives believe the victim moved to the US from South Korea over the summer to join a religious group called Soldiers of Christ.

Heres what we know.

How was the body discovered?

Investigators claim that Eric Hyun, 26, parked a silver Jaguar sedan outside of Jeju Sauna on 12 September before calling a family member to pick him up, police said.

That family member then drove the 26-year-old to an Atlanta area hospital due to unrelated injuries.

While he was in the hospital, Mr Hyun asked his relative to retrieve something for him from the car; thats when the family member noticed what appeared to be a deceased body in the trunk, prompting the relative to call 911.

This 911 report launched an investigation.

Gwinnett County detectives then searched a home associated with Mr Hyun in Lawrenceville, allegedly finding evidence to suggest the basement of the home was where the crime took place, officials wrote.

Police are now investigating the death as a homicide.

A beaten and starved womans body was found in trunk of car in Georgia (GCP)

Who are the suspects?

Seven people have been arrested and charged in connection to the death, police said, as of 11 October.

Five adults  Eric Hyun, 26, Juoonhyum Lee, 22, Joonho Lee, 26, Hyunji Lee, 25, Gawon Lee, 26  were arrested and charged with felony murder, false imprisonment, tampering with evidence and concealing a death on 14 September, according to police. A 15-year-old minor was also arrested.

The following day, officials announced they had secured criminal street gang charges against the six suspects.

Detectives believe all suspects are currently in custody, and there are no outstanding individuals, officials said at the time.

On 11 October, however, Mihee Lee, 54, the mother of three suspects, was arrested and charged with felony murder false imprisonment, concealing the death of another, tampering with evidence, and false statements, police said. She is the mother of Juoonhyum Lee, 22, Joonho Lee, 26, and the 15-year-old suspect.

Police added that the suspects referred to themselves as belonging to Soldiers of Christ.

The five adults arrested in connection to the homicide (Gwinnett County Police)

Who was the victim?

Due to the bodys decomposed state, investigators couldnt initially identify the victims gender, police previously told WSB-TV.

Although her name was not released for a while, police identified the victim as 33-year-old Seehe Cho in October. Her next of kin has been notified, police told The Independent.

The victim, investigators discovered, seemed to have moved from South Korea to the US over the summer for the purpose of joining a religious organization.

Cho appeared to have been starved and beaten for weeks, police added. As she weighed only 70 pounds at the time of her death, the Medical Examiners Office believes malnourishment could be a contributing factor, officials wrote. Still, her exact cause of death is being investigated.

Police previously said they believed that Cho could have known or been related to the suspects.

Adding a potential twist to the case, Mr Hyun, who was arrested in connection with Chos death, is now claiming to have also been a victim of the Soldiers of Christ group. His attorney, David Boyle, said that the Lee family abused his client in the same basement at the same time that they were abusing Cho. One such indoctrination technique that they used, the lawyer said, was sanding skin off his chest.

Police told the Associated Press that they recovered video of Joonho Lee beating Mr Hyun.

He was beaten with a belt in his genitals and face until he was knocked unconscious, Mr Boyle said. He was stripped naked and shot with an airsoft gun all over his body, causing over a hundred wounds. He added that if Mr Hyun hadnt tried to escape when he did, he would have also died.

Photos of the alleged scene of the crime (Gwinnett County Police)

Where was the body found?

Although the body was found in the parking lot outside of Jeju Sauna, the business appears to be completely unrelated to the incident.

The owner of Jeju Sauna told Fox 5 about the surveillance video; the footage captured a man pulling up to the spa in the Jaguar alongside a Mercedes on Tuesday morning. The owner added that the man looked in the Jaguar trunk before getting into the Mercedes and taking off.

Later that night, the owner told the outlet, the video showed the Mercedes returning  just as police arrived at the scene. There was a foul odour from the trunk, the owner added, suggesting that the body had been there for a while.

Jeju Sauna said in a statement that the incident had absolutely nothing to do with the business, but merely happened in the parking lot outside it.

The safety and well-being of our customers have always been our utmost priority, the statement said. We are fully cooperating with local law enforcement authorities who are currently investigating the matter. We are confident that they will bring those responsible to justice swiftly.
A federal judge has blocked part of an emergency order from New Mexicos governor that sought to temporarily ban residents from carrying firearms in public in the states largest metro area.

The ruling on 13 September from US District Judge David Urias, who was appointed by President Joe Biden, follows a flurry of legal challenges seeking to reverse the order, issued just days earlier, that Democratic Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham enacted in response to a wave of gun violence in the state.

Her emergency order on 7 September, which went into immediate effect, temporarily suspended open and concealed carry laws in Albuquerque and its surrounding Bernalillo County for at least 30 days, with some exceptions, for what she called a cooling off period after a pair of recent mass shootings and the deaths of three children in the state this summer.

The order also directed a state agency to conduct monthly inspections of licensed firearm dealers and ordered the state health department to assemble a report on gunshot victims at hospitals across the state, among other measures.

Her novel approach to combatting the proliferation of firearms and a growing gun violence crisis drew immediate outrage, armed protests and legal challenges from Republican officials, right-wing activists and Second Amendment groups, and triggered a wave of abuse and threats of violence on social media.

In her announcement last week, the governor said she expected a legal fight questioning the constitutionality of her order to follow, but I have to take a tough direct stand, or basically Im just ignoring the fact that we lost an 11-year-old, another child.

Gun Owners Foundation, Gun Owners of America Inc, the National Association for Gun Rights and We The Patriots USA filed several legal challenges on behalf of several Bernalillo County gun owners. On Wednesday, Judge Urias heard arguments from plaintiffs seeking a temporary restraining order that blocks the governors measure.

Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller and Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen, both Democrats, were wary of the governors order and heightened Second Amendment scrutiny on the state in its wake. They instead urged her to convene a special legislative session among state lawmakers focusing exclusively on gun violence.

Albuquerque families cant afford political debates that distract us from fighting violent crime, Mr Keller wrote in a letter to the governor.

The marquee at a gun shop in Los Ranchos, New Mexico on 11 September protests Governor Michelle Lujan Grishams order banning residents from carrying firearms in public. (AP)

Roughly 500 people are killed by gun violence every year in New Mexico, which ranks sixth among US states for gun deaths per capita, according to advocacy group Everytown for Gun Safety.

Firearms were used in the vast majority of Abuquerques 76 homicides this year, according to the citys police department.

During a press conference this week, Sheriff Allen called the governors order unconstitutional, adding that theres no way we can enforce it.

My question to law enforcement is: Where are you? the governor told CNN.

If youre not going to stand up for these kids and really test as hard as you can getting fewer guns and dealing with gun violence in a meaningful way, then youre basically saying that you wont be responsible to protect the citizens of the state, she added.
PRAGUE (AP)  Slovakias Supreme Court upheld a previous ruling that dismissed a lawsuit by former Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis against allegations that he collaborated with Czechoslovakias communist-era secret police.

Babis informed the local Czech CTK news agency about the verdict on Wednesday.

The Slovak-born Babis was suing Slovakias Institute of the Nations Memory, which holds parts of his secret police files following the division of Czechoslovakia into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993.

Some of the files were destroyed, but the institute said those that still exist contain evidence that Babis was an agent under the code name Bures from 1982. Babis has vehemently denied that.

The verdict is final.

Bratislavas regional court originally rejected the lawsuit in 2018, but the countrys Constitutional Court ordered a retrial, saying the institute could not be sued in the case and the respondent should be the Slovak Interior Ministry.

The regional court dismissed the case again in 2022.

Babis, a billionaire, is currently in opposition after his populist ANO centrist movement lost the 2021 parliamentary election. He was running to become the Czech president in the election for the largely ceremonial post in January but lost to Petr Pavel, a retired army general.
By Matt Spetalnick

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. and Cuban officials made progress on a range of issues during high-level talks in Washington this week but were unable to narrow differences over the biggest disputes between the countries, Cubas vice foreign minister said on Thursday.

Cubas main concerns are that it remains on the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism and the Biden administrations continuation of Washingtons Cold War-era economic embargo against the Communist-ruled island.

In an interview with Reuters, Cuban Vice Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio said: We believe that it is unreasonable for the United States to continue to carry out a policy with which it disagreed before coming into office, that they know is hurting the Cuban population as a whole."

He said progress was made in talks on migration issues and cooperation in law enforcement, health, science and technology. We welcome them, but they're not the defining factor, the overriding issue, De Cossio told Reuters.

A State Department official said U.S. law includes exemptions and authorizations for exports of food, medicine, and other humanitarian goods to Cuba. "President Biden remains committed to policies that will advance the democratic aspirations of the Cuban people," the official added.

U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, last year partially rolled back some Trump-era restrictions on remittances and travel to Cuba. Havana said his measures were insufficient.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump, a Republican, had designated Cuba a state sponsor of terrorism before leaving office in January 2021. This was part of Trumps reversal of rapprochement with Cuba initiated by his Democratic predecessor, Barack Obama, under whom Biden served as vice president.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller confirmed that De Cossio met on Monday with Brian Nichols, assistant secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs.

Asked whether any progress had been made in a long-running review of whether to lift terrorism-sponsor designation, he told reporters: We have not made a determination that I can report today."

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel will continue to press on the issue this month when he addresses the United Nations General Assembly, De Cossio said.

U.S. officials also reiterated their call for Cuba to release detainees, but Cuban officials countered by asking Washington to discuss prisoners held in the U.S., De Cossio said.

The Biden administration, which condemned Cuba for a crackdown on anti-government protesters in July 2021, considers those arrested to be political prisoners.

Cuba says those detained had violated Cuban law and received fair trials and sentences.

(Reporting by Matt Spetalnick; Editing by Stephen Coates and David Gregorio)
This pool image distributed by Sputnik agency shows North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un leaving Vostochny Cosmodrome in Amur region on Sept. 13, after talks with Russian President. AFP-Yonhap





North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit his country during their summit at Russia's spaceport, and Putin accepted the offer, Pyongyang's state media reported Thursday, as the two isolated countries seek to bolster ties.







Kim made the invitation at an official dinner with Putin on Wednesday after their summit at the Vostochny space center in Russia's Amur region, the North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said, in their first meeting in over four years.







"At the end of the reception, Kim Jong Un courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK at a convenient time," the KCNA reported in an English dispatch. "Putin accepted the invitation with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history and tradition of the Russia-DPRK friendship."







DPRK stands for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, the North's official name.







The summit came as Pyongyang has recently been seeking to bolster military ties with Moscow and doubling down on its weapons development amid growing security cooperation among South Korea, the United States and Japan.







During the meeting, Kim said his latest trip to Russia marks a "significant" occasion to raise cooperative bilateral ties to a higher level, according to the KCNA.






India has reacted strongly to shocking bodycam footage of a Seattle police officer laughing over the death of a 23-year-old Indian student and demanded the US take action on the matter.

Jaahnavi Kandula, a masters student at Northeastern Universitys Seattle campus, was killed in January on a crosswalk near her university campus after she was struck by a patrol car and thrown over 100ft when police were responding to an overdose in the South Lake Union neighbourhood.

Seattle police said the officer driving the patrol vehicle was responding to a priority-one call when the incident happened. The officer was going at 74mph in a 25mph speed zone.

On Monday, footage released by the Seattle police showed officer Daniel Auderer making fun of Kandulas death.

The Consulate General of India in San Francisco took cognisance of the deeply troubling video in which Mr Auderer is heard insulting and laughing about the 23-year-old student.

Recent reports including in media of the handling of Ms Jaahnavi Kandulas death in a road accident in Seattle in January are deeply troubling, the consulate said in a statement on X, formerly Twitter.

We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle and Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington DC for a thorough investigation and action against those involved in this tragic case, it said.

Recent reports including in media of the handling of Ms Jaahnavi Kandulas death in a road accident in Seattle in January are deeply troubling. We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle & Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington DC  India in SF (@CGISFO) September 13, 2023

The Consulate and Embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all concerned authorities.

Authorities are now investigating footage from the incident that showed Mr Auderer  who is also the vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild (SPOG)  insulting and laughing about the 23-year-old student during a phone call just hours after the incident.

In the footage, he can be heard speaking to SPOG president Mike Solan.

There is initially  he said she was in a crosswalk, there is a witness that said, No she wasnt, but that could be different, because I dont think she was thrown 40 feet, either, Mr Auderer could be heard saying.

She is dead, he then said before laughing, showed the footage.

No, its a regular person  yeah, yeah, just write a check, just, yeah, he further said, before laughing again.

$11,000. She was 26 anyway, she had limited value.

The Biden administration on Wednesday reportedly assured India of a quick investigation into the case.

Senior Biden administration officials provided reassurance to the Indian ambassador and the Indian government, emphasising their deep concern over the incident, reported The Indian Express newspaper, citing sources from news agency PTI.

Anyone who thinks that a human life has limited value should not be serving in law enforcement.  Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) September 14, 2023

According to reports, the officials expressed shock and horror over the incident and promised to closely monitor the investigation.

Mr Auderer acknowledged that anyone listening to the body-camera recording would rightfully believe I was being insensitive to the loss of human life, reported KTTH.

He said the comment was not made with malice or a hard heart.

The family has nothing to say, Kandulas uncle Ashok Kandula told PTI.

Except I wonder if these mens daughters or granddaughters have value. A life is a life.

On Indian social media, the outrage was palpable.

Jaahnavi Kandula came here for graduate work from India. She was killed on a crosswalk by a speeding police car, & Officer Auderer said her life had limited value. I thought of my Dad who came here in his 20s. Mr. Auderer, the life of every Indian immigrant has infinite value, one user commented.

Anyone who thinks that a human life has limited value should not be serving in law enforcement.

Another user called the video absolutely disgusting.
By Maayan Lubell

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's camp and his political rivals have both been presented with proposals for judicial reform that could end a crisis tormenting Israel for months, the country's president said on Wednesday.

Netanyahu's nationalist-religious coalition in January launched a campaign to overhaul Israel's judiciary, sparking unprecedented protests, sending the shekel down and stirring concern among allies for Israel's democratic health.

President Isaac Herzog did not provide details of the new compromise proposal, saying only that it provides the basis for immediate understandings that will keep Israel "a stable democracy."

"Allow me to expose for a moment what is happening behind closed doors," Herzog said at a memorial speech in Latrun. "This proposal has wide support among the coalition and the opposition," he said. "Now is the time for resolution. Now is the time for a leader's decision."

Herzog's remarks came a day after Israel's Supreme Court held a historic session, convening its entire 15-judge bench for more than 12 hours to hear appeals against a law which curtails some judicial powers that was passed by Netanyahu's coalition in July.

Netanyahu says the judicial changes are meant to balance out branches of government by reining in a court that has become too interventionist.

Opponents see them as harming court independence, inviting corruption and endangering vital democratic checks and balances in a country with no formal constitution and a unicameral parliament largely controlled by coalition governments.

President Joe Biden, who has not met with Netanyahu since the latter took office for a sixth term in late December, has called on the Israeli leader to seek broad agreement on any judicial reforms.

Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption charges he denies, has said that he has already scrapped some of the original judicial proposals while he works to reach agreements on reforms. However, opposition leaders have voiced scepticism.

Successive surveys have shown the overhaul to be unpopular among Israelis and Netanyahu's coalition, which won a decisive victory in a November vote, losing an election were it to be held.

(Reporting by Maayan Lubell; Editing by William Maclean)
Update: Police said Wednesday night that Taquiesha Landis was found safe.

Kansas City police were asking the public for help Wednesday to locate a missing and possibly endangered woman.

Taquiesha Landis, 33, was last heard from via text message around 4 p.m., police said in a written statement. Police say Landis is in need of medical care.

Landis is described as a Black woman, roughly 5-foot-6 and 130 pounds. Police had no clothing description or a last known location for Landis.

Kansas City police were asking anyone who finds Landis to call 911 immediately.
(Reuters) - Ukrainian forces trying to press on with their three-month-old counteroffensive are facing new waves of Russian attacks on key frontline cities in the east, Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar said on Wednesday.

Ukraine's counteroffensive has focused on capturing clusters of villages in an advance southward to the Sea of Azov and retaking areas around the city of Bakhmut in the east, a town seized by Russian forces in May after months of battles.

The campaign has moved more slowly than Ukraine's rapid advances a year ago, but President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has rejected criticism in Western media that it is too sluggish and has been hurt by poor strategy.

Maliar said the military was now facing fresh Russian assaults on two cities it has been defending for months in the east: the coking centre of Avdiivka and nearby Maryinka.

"If we are talking about the east, the situation has become much tougher in Maryinka," Maliar told national television.

"The Russians have increased their shelling," she said, and have also begun waves of attacks.

Ukrainian forces, she said, had achieved "stable success" in their drive to recapture Bakhmut and had achieved some of their goals around Klishchivka, a village on heights to the south.

Further north, near the towns of Lyman and Kupiansk, the heavy fighting of recent weeks has eased, she said.

The General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said in its evening report that Ukrainian troops had beaten back 10 Russian attacks near Maryinka in the past 24 hours. It said Russian forces were trying to regain lost positions northwest of Bakhmut.

Russian accounts of the fighting, reported by the Defence Ministry on Telegram, said Russian forces had repelled 10 Ukrainian attacks in the east and southeast.

In the south, Maliar said Russian forces dug in after more than a year of occupation "are not simply about to give up".

Robotyne, a village secured by Ukraine this month, was firmly under Kyiv's control, although "nearby, very serious fighting is going on. But at the same time we have made advances."

Ukrainian forces are pressing the drive southward to sever a land bridge created by Russian occupying forces between Crimea, annexed in 2014, and their troops installed in the east.

Reuters was unable to verify any of the reports of action on the ground.

(Reporting by Yuliia Dysa and Ron Popeski; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
Now that the US Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have signed off, you wont have to wait long to get your updated Covid-19 shot. Major pharmacy chains have already started rolling out vaccine appointments.

Manufacturers say the tweaked mRNA vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech are effective against EG.5, the strain that is currently dominant in the United States, as well as other emerging variants.

Health officials are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations are continuing to creep up and the threat of other respiratory viruses, including flu and RSV, loom ahead this fall. For the first time, vaccines are available against all three.

Heres what you need to know about when and where you should get the vaccines you need to stay healthy this fall.

Who should get vaccinated

Everyone age 6 months and older should get an updated Covid-19 vaccine, according to the CDC.

The CDCs Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, a panel of experts that advises the agency on vaccines, said on Tuesday that everyone ages 5 and older should get at least one dose of an updated mRNA vaccine against Covid-19 this year.

Children age 6 months through 4 years who are getting their vaccines for the first time should get two doses of a Moderna vaccine and three doses of a Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine, and at least one of the doses should be the updated vaccine.

The committee also recommended that people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised get at least three doses of Covid-19 vaccine, with at least one of those doses being an updated shot. They also have the option to get an additional updated vaccine later in the year.

The committee has not decided whether people 65 and older will need another dose of the updated vaccine in a few months. Most older adults became eligible for a second dose of a bivalent Covid-19 vaccine this past spring.

The committee is very committed to equity, to make sure that everyone in our very diverse country will have access to the vaccine, said Dr. William Schaffner, a professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville and former medical director of the nonprofit National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.

That means recommending more doses for people who are at higher risk of severe illness, such as people ages 65 and older, people who have weakened immune systems or underlying conditions and people who live in nursing homes or pregnant.

It is these people who will benefit the most from the new vaccines, according to Dr. Dan Barouch, director of the Center for Virology and Vaccine Research at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, who was not involved in developing either the of the new shots but previously helped study the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

The primary goal of these vaccines is to reduce the risk of severe disease, which is a very important goal, but it is not likely that these boosters will provide frank protection against the acquisition of infection and probably only modest effect on mild disease, he said. And so, these boosters will likely be important for people who are at severe risk of disease.

Flu and RSV are also expected to circulate this fall and winter, creating a triple threat of lung infections.

Annual flu shots are available now, and the CDC recommends them for everyone 6 months and older in September and October, especially very young children, people with preexisting health conditions, pregnant people and older adults.

There are also two vaccines for respiratory syncytial virus, known as RSV, available for people 60 and older. Both are single-dose vaccines. Schaffner urges everyone in that age group to get their RSV vaccine, adding that the virus causes as much respiratory illness as the flu each year.

When to get vaccinated

Timing when to get your updated Covid-19 shot depends on when you received your last one, Schaffner said. Those who got their last Covid-19 vaccine several months or longer ago should get it in the next few weeks: late September through October.

But people who recently received the bivalent Covid-19 vaccine or who were recently infected with the virus itself should wait a bit longer, he said.

They ought to wait about three months in order to get the maximum benefit from the booster, Schaffner said. Most vaccines like this, take about 10 days for full protection to develop and of course it develops day by day.

That is how much time it takes for the body to start circulating antibodies through the bloodstream, he said. If you have a trip or a large event coming up, Schaffner said, give it at least a week, even two weeks is better.

For RSV, the CDC is encouraging doctors to administer the new immunizations as soon as possible. Flu shots should be administered during the month of October, Schaffner said, preferably by Halloween, an approach called flu before boo.

It is completely safe for people to get their flu shot and Covid-19 shots on the same day, usually one in each arm, according to Schaffner. He adds that the new RSV vaccines can also be given at the same time as other vaccines, per the CDCs recommendation.

However, Schaffner notes, people certainly are not obliged to get vaccines simultaneously. If they would like to spread them out, thats perfectly understandable.

Schaffner does warn though, a vaccine delayed is unfortunately often a vaccine never received. So, youll have to motivate yourself to seek out the vaccine. Youll have to go to your doctors office or pharmacy two or three times to make sure that you do get all the vaccines for which you are eligible.

Where to get vaccinated

The new Covid-19 vaccine will be available at some retail pharmacies by the end of the week.

We expect CVS Pharmacy locations to begin receiving supply of the new COVID-19 vaccines later this week, CVS said in a statement to CNN. Our pharmacies will continue to receive them on a rolling basis.

Right now, patients can schedule a Covid-19 vaccine appointment on the CVS and Walgreens websites.

Walgreens Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kevin Ban said in a statement this week, Eligible individuals will be able to schedule appointments within 24 hours following CDC recommendation.

Available appointments will begin this week, Ban said, and will be on a rolling basis as stores receive vaccines.

Rite Aid will also have the new vaccine in stores soon. Our online scheduler with appointments available for customers wanting to receive the updated COVID-19 vaccine will be live on Friday, Sept. 15, it said in a statement.

The vaccine will also be available at doctors offices and federally qualified health centers.

Appointments for flu and RSV vaccines for older adults are currently available at CVS and Walgreens as well as other retailers, and at doctors offices and local health clinics.

Cost of vaccinations

Most people with health insurance will be able to get their updated Covid-19 shot at their doctors office or pharmacy, such as CVS or Walgreens, at no cost. Under the Affordable Care Act, most insurance plans are covering the full cost of the updated Covid-19 vaccines without co-pays.

People who are uninsured  about 28 million Americans, according to KFF  or underinsured may still have access to the updated Covid-19 vaccine for free.

They will be eligible for free Covid-19 vaccines through the governments Bridge Access Program, which will distribute shots to local health departments and federally qualified health centers with the help of state and local immunization programs.

The CDC has also modified existing contracts with CVS, Walgreens, and eTrueNorth  a group that helps independent pharmacies expand their clinical services  to offer vaccination services. More than 20,000 retail pharmacy locations across the country will provide free vaccines to people without insurance, or whose insurance requires a co-pay for in-network coverage, the US Department of Health and Human Services said.

Bridge Access providers will be added this week to the Vaccines.gov website, which can help people find locations to get the free vaccines.

Children from low-income families will be able to get free vaccines through the CDCs Vaccines for Children program.

Flu shots will remain available at no cost through most insurance plans including Obamacare. Medicare Part B also covers flu shots for adults 65 and older.

The new RSV vaccines for seniors may require a prescription from a doctor and might not be covered by insurance. If not, the shots cost around $300. Schaffner said anyone worried about coverage should reach out to their insurance company for guidance.

CNNs Brenda Goodman, Deidre McPhillips and Jacqueline Howard contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The GOP-controlled Missouri House on Wednesday voted to restore 14 items vetoed from the state budget by Republican Gov. Mike Parson.

But, after a short debate, the Republican-controlled Senate refused to take up the overrides and quickly adjourned, leaving Parsons $555.3 million in cuts intact.

Wednesdays constitutionally-mandated veto session offered Missouri lawmakers a chance to make a case that their colleagues should override Parson, who slashed 201 items from the state budget approved by lawmakers last session. The state budget took effect in July.

While lawmakers on Wednesday appeared incensed by some of Parsons vetoes, its extremely rare for a GOP-controlled legislature to override a Republican governor. A successful override would have required a two-thirds majority vote from both chambers of the General Assembly.

House lawmakers still jumped at the opportunity, voting to restore several items, including $28 million for improvements to Interstate-44, pay raises for Missouri Highway Patrol employees and police who work at the Capitol, $13 million for a police center in St. Louis and $1.4 million for Missouri Task Force 1, a search and rescue team managed by the Boone County Fire Protection District in Columbia.

Budget items related to public safety funding and money for police largely dominated the debate in the House. House Budget Chair Cody Smith, a Carthage Republican who is running for state treasurer, made nine motions to restore 20% pay raises for Highway Patrol workers, saying that troopers were being recruited away from the agency or taking early retirements.

We stand by our law enforcement officers, and we know that with the proper training, we are giving our men and women in law enforcement the right tools to protect and serve all of the citizens in our state, House Speaker Dean Plocher, a St. Louis Republican, said in a statement Wednesday.

We respect the Governor and his veto decisions, but we believe these items are necessary for the good of the state, and can have a long-lasting, positive impact.

Democrats attempted to override additional measures but all of those failed in the House except for one, sought by State Rep. LaKeySha Bosley from St. Louis. Bosley argued that $13 million for a law enforcement center in St. Louis was necessary and would save lives.

Some House Democrats criticized Republicans for pushing pay raises for the Highway Patrol and police officers but not other state employees, such as mental health workers. State Rep. Deb Lavender, a Manchester Democrat, unsuccessfully attempted to override Parsons veto of $2.2 million for a long-term care ombudsman program to help seniors and nursing homes.

But all of the Houses overrides proved meaningless once the Senate gaveled in. State Sen. Lincoln Hough, who chairs the Senates budget committee, said on the floor that he did not plan to try to override any of the Republican governors vetoes, saying he did not know whether there would be enough votes.

I dont really like to come out here and do things when I dont know what the outcome is going to be, he said. Theres a lot of investments we made all around the state in everyones districts that we can be proud of. And, I dont know, this kind of seems like an exercise in futility if you asked me.

The Senate also did not attempt to override Parsons veto of a sweeping public safety bill that would have allowed more people who were wrongfully convicted to receive compensation from the state. The legislation was the only non-budget bill that Parson vetoed this year.

Wednesdays action in the Senate did offer a chance for two Republican candidates for governor to briefly face off before the 2024 election. During the debate, Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, who led the Senate on Wednesday, called on state Sen. Bill Eigel, a Weldon Spring Republican, who criticized some of Parsons cuts, including money intended to provide better drinking water in St. Charles.

Shortly after Eigel took the floor to criticize other items in what he described as a budget that wastes more money than weve ever seen in this state, Senate Majority Leader Cindy OLaughlin made a motion for the Senate to adjourn, leaving the Republican governors budget vetoes in place.

The roughly $51 billion state budget that Parson signed in June included a massive $2.8 billion expansion of Interstate-70 as well as other major items sought by lawmakers including $3.6 billion in state aid to K-12 schools, $78 million to boost rates for child care providers and $50 million for safety improvements at railroad crossings.

Parson spokesperson Johnathan Shiflett, in a statement Wednesday, downplayed the House override attempts, saying the Republican governor did not witness anything today that was not expected.

Its clear that the overwhelming majority of the General Assembly agreed with Governor Parsons call for fiscal responsibility when he issued his vetoes, he said.
Nearly 30 years after officials said a Virginia mother was brutally stabbed and killed, a man turned himself in to authorities after one conversation with detectives, police said.

Stephan Smerk, 51, of New York is facing charges of second-degree murder in the killing of 37-year-old Robin Lawrence in 1994. He was an active duty Army member at the time of her death, police said.

The case had been cold for years as Fairfax County police were unable to find DNA matches from the scene.

In November 1994, Lawrences husband was out of the country on a work trip and couldnt get a hold of his wife, Fairfax County Police Department Deputy Chief Eli Cory said in a Sept. 11 news conference posted to the police departments YouTube page. He asked a family friend to check on her, Cory said, and when they arrived to her Springfield home, they discovered Lawrence dead with multiple stab wounds.

It was a heinous, heinous scene, Fairfax County Police Department Chief Kevin Davis said in the news conference. And Ive seen a lot of crime scenes in person and photographs of one, and this one was particularly, particularly gruesome.

Lawrences 2-year-old daughter was found in another room unharmed, Cory said.

The case would go unsolved for decades, leaving further investigation to the countys cold case unit. Davis commended the cold case unit for its doggedness in solving Lawrences killing.

Davis said genetic genealogy largely contributed to detectives finding Smerk in New York.

Police collected DNA evidence during their initial investigation. But no matches were found around the time of the killing, Cory said, so they held onto the forensic evidence.

In 2019, detectives resubmitted that DNA to Parabon NanoLabs, a DNA technology company in Northern Virginia that specializes in DNA phenotyping and genetic genealogy analysis, according to a FCPD news release.

Using the crime scene DNA, the company developed a genetic profile and family tree that was shared with detectives, Cory said. After three years of working with the new information, it led them to investigate Smerk.

The forensic evidence we kept after all these years, Davis said. It finally hit, and it hit big.

Parabon NanoLabs also developed a composite image based on the DNA evidence, Cory said, which was then compared with photos of Smerk from his high school yearbook and DMV photos.

Fairfax detectives took a trip up to Niskayuna, New York, which is around 20 miles north of Albany, in anticipation of furthering their investigation, Davis said.

What the Virginia detectives didnt anticipate was seeing Smerk outside of his house taking out the trash. The detectives engaged in a consensual conversation with Smerk about the case, Davis said, and Smerk submitted willingly and without question to a DNA swab.

His willingness to speak with police was highly unusual, Davis said. The detectives left their business card with Smerk, went to their hotel and made preparations to return to Fairfax County  but then the phone rang.

It was Stephan Smerk on the other end of the phone, Davis said.

Smerk called the detectives about his plan to turn himself into the local police department, where officials say he later confessed to killing Lawrence. He is under arrest and is awaiting extradition to Fairfax County.

Lawrences killing was a randomly selected act, Cory said, and police do not believe there is any connection between her and Smerk.

Smerk has zero criminal history, Davis said, and worked as a software engineer.

We have no reason to believe at the moment that hes suspected in any additional, similar crimes. Davis said. But we leave that open to possibility.

Anyone with extra information on the case is encouraged to call the Fairfax County Major Crimes Bureau at 703-246-7800, according to the news release.

Springfield is around 10 miles southwest of Washington D.C.

16-year-old girl killed 45 years ago, Washington cops say. DNA now identifies suspect

Woman vanished 4 years ago, GA cops say. Now a mom and daughter charged with murder

Man tells the FBI he raped and killed a woman 44 years ago, Massachusetts officials say
Colorectal cancer can be a devastating diagnosis. Sherri Rollins has now been through it twice, but was determined to get the right treatment and stay positive. She had a gut feeling something was wrong each time, even though doctors initially told her she was fine. The stay-at-home mom, who asked that her age be described as approaching 50 and lives in Salisbury, North Carolina, shares her symptoms, story of resilience and advice for other patients with TODAY.com.

Sherri Rollins (Courtesy Sherri Rollins)

Ive always been a private person, but I said If I get through this and I live, I want to tell people what happened and inspire them to be their own advocate.

In 2017, life was normal except that I was having a lot of back pain. I went to the emergency room and a scan showed a lesion on my liver. A local gastroenterologist said it was nothing to worry about and said wed check it in six months.

But I was thinking that may be wrong, and I always go by what my gut is telling me. I went to another doctor who said, Lets just go and do an MRI. It turned out to be stage 4 colon cancer that had metastasized to my liver. I was diagnosed in early 2018.

My father had colon cancer and passed away in his early 50s. I probably should have had a colonoscopy, but I didnt believe it would happen like that to me. I was a healthy person and Id always done checkups.

When the doctor said metastasized," I remember thinking, Theyre going to take this out, Im going to take the medicine and everythings going to be fine. I never felt doomed.

I did a years worth of chemotherapy and underwent surgery.

I was in remission for four years  so I thought. You feel like youve got it beat. But then I began having symptoms. I lost weight. When I would use the bathroom, I would feel like I had not finished. I had painful gas.

I was getting regular scans and told they were clear, but I had that feeling again and I just knew something was wrong. My oncologist said, I can assure you, you do not have cancer, you are hypersensitive. And I said, No, I believe it is back.

In March 2022, they called me back and said, Upon further looking, youre right. There is a lesion in your rectum. It was farther down than the original cancer. Thats why we didnt see it because we werent looking for it there.

I felt let down, but I just gathered my troops  my two boys and my husband.

Sherri Rollins and family (Courtesy Sherri Rollins)

The tumor was larger than expected, and it had gone outside the colon and spread into the pelvic floor. I saw several doctors about what to do next. One wanted to take the whole colon out. Another said Id have a colostomy bag my whole life.

I really liked a gastrointestinal surgeon at UNC Health, who told me the tumor could be removed and the ileostomy bag would be temporary. As part of the treatment, I also underwent intraoperative radiotherapy, which delivers radiation while youre on the operating table. The tumor is removed and then they hit the area with radiation to hopefully kill any cancer cells that were left behind. I also had more chemotherapy.

After three months, the ileostomy was reversed. It has been a little slower recovery this time than it was the first time, but I am a happy person by nature. Its only been a year, Ill get there. Im getting out more and doing more.

Sherri Rollins (Courtesy Sherri Rollins)

I did things a step at a time. You work the problem  you go to the next thing and then the next because if you look at the big picture, its so overwhelming. Just face one problem at a time  thats how I manage things. You cant look at it far out, a year or five years from now. You just have to face the next step.

Lets say theres a 5% chance that people make it out of this in a year. But somebody made it out because its not a 0% chance. Somebody beat all the odds. Why not you? Why not me?

I had a lot of issues with my hands because of having had so much chemo in such a short amount of time. I have a lot of neuropathy, but you just keep pushing forward because what option do you have? Im still here and thats what matters at the end of the day. Id rather be here and face anything. Ive got those two boys to give me all the hope in the world. They are my biggest cheerleaders.

Now that Ive been affected by this disease and the fight to save myself, I am just so appreciative.

I hope that even if one person makes their case for more treatment options and it saves them, then that is why I am speaking out. Being your own advocate doesnt mean you are a disgruntled patient.

This interview was condensed and edited for clarity.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
The abrupt departure of Overland Park Police Chief Frank Donchez has left many city and county officials scratching their heads.

Several council members said Wednesday they had not been told a reason for Donchezs resignation, which was announced in a brief news release Tuesday evening.

The initial release from Meg Ralph, an Overland Park spokeswoman, provided no reason for his departure, saying the city does not comment on personnel information.

It was followed up by another release from the city Wednesday, detailing more information: Donchez submitted his resignation to City Manager Lori Curtis Luther on Tuesday, Sept. 12. And resignation letters are personnel records and are not available to the public.

It also stated Donchez did not have an employment contract with the city and did not receive a severance package. It said he is eligible to receive standard post-employment benefits.

The citys statement Wednesday also described an encounter Monday between Donchez and the mother of a teen shot and killed by Overland Park police in 2018. But Ralph declined to say how that incident might be connected with Donchezs resignation.

City and county leaders reached by The Star Wednesday expressed surprise about the resignation and concern about the citys lack of transparency.

I thought he was a good police chief and served the city well. I thought he was professional, Councilman Paul Lyons told The Star. I hope he resigned for a positive reason.

Councilman Faris Farassati was upset by the lack of information coming from City Hall, arguing that elected officials shouldnt be left to deal with rumors.

This is not transparent. The community needs to know. This is a publicly funded, extremely important position, Farassati said. We need to be transparent and, other than confidential personnel information, we should provide an explanation.

Johnson County Commissioner Janee Hanzlick said she was surprised and taken aback by the announcement. Thats not usually how people resign, so suddenly. I am as dumbfounded as everyone else.

The Stars attempts to reach Donchez, by phone and at his home, were unsuccessful on Wednesday.

Luther and Mayor Curt Skoog did not respond to requests for comment.

The Overland Park Police Department is facing scrutiny as four officers have been placed on paid administrative leave for more than a year; the Johnson County District Attorneys Office is investigating criminal allegations involving a police nonprofit where three of them have served as directors.

The citys follow-up email Wednesday, which came after multiple requests for comment, detailed a heated exchange Donchez had Monday at the Overland Park City Council meeting with Sheila Albers, the mother of John Albers, who was fatally shot by an officer on Jan. 20, 2018.

The shooting has continued to prompted criticism in the years since 17-year-old Albers, who was experiencing a mental health crisis, was killed. Activists called for the removal of Donchez.

The shooting resulted in a $2.3 million wrongful death settlement and a $70,000 severance paid out to Clayton Jenison, the officer who shot the teen. He was allowed to resign under ordinary circumstances, according to a form submitted to the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training, which licenses police officers in the state.

Late Monday night, Sheila Albers sent an email to Luther and Skoog recounting her conversation hours earlier with Donchez. She had asked him about the CPOST form and an interview where he said Jenison had quit before he could be reprimanded or encouraged to leave. According to CPOST records, Jenison left the department on March 4, 2018, about six weeks after he shot John Albers.

I pushed Donchez hard on the lies he told in that interview and his response was asking me if I have ever lied before. I told him I have not lied in a professional setting like that, Sheila Albers wrote to Luther and Skoog. He then said, I am sure you and Steve tell everyone you were the best parents.

She replied, John struggled with his mental health.

According to her email, Donchez replied, And you left him at his time of need.

In her email, she claimed Donchez told her that he will keep being the Chief until he retires and I can keep hoping he is not.

She ended the email by saying she said what needed to be said and did not need the city to do anything.

Email from Sheila Albers to Overland Park's city manager and mayor by The Kansas City Star on Scribd

On Wednesday, she said she was excited that Overland Park has the opportunity to find a forward-thinking chief of police.

Donchez began his law enforcement career in 1981 in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and eventually became police chief there. He later worked as chief of police in Davenport, Iowa, before Overland Park hired him in 2014.

The city has appointed Deputy Chief Simon Happer to serve as interim police chief. Officials said the city will begin a national search to hire a new police chief as soon as possible.

The Stars Anna Spoerre and Andrea Klick contributed to this story.
Musician and singer Peso Pluma has cancelled and postponed several of his scheduled concerts, amid a recent threat made against his safety by a Mexican cartel.

On Tuesday (12 September), before Pluma (real name Hassan Emilio Kabande Laija) made his MTV VMAs debut, a menacing banner was hung from a bridge in the border town of Tijuana, Mexico.

A translation of the banner, signed by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, read: This goes to Peso Pluma, refrain from presenting yourself on October 14 because it will be your last show due to your disrespect and loose tongue, you show up and we are going to (break you), according to The Arizona Republic.

That same day, fans who were planning to see the Mexican artist, 24, in concert on Thursday (14 September) at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin had been notified by the venue that due to unforeseen circumstances, the show had been postponed.

Additional dates, including his Friday (15 September) and Saturday (16 September) concerts in Rosemont, Illinois and Indianapolis, respectively, were also postponed.

Its not yet known whether or not Plumas cancellations were made in direct response to the cartels threat.

The Independent has contacted Pluma for comment.

Peso Pluma (Getty Images)

The rising star is best known for singing traditional Mexican ballads. However, Pluma also specialises in a subgenre of contemporary takes on the ballad, known as narcocorridos, according to Pitchfork, whose lyrics recount the exploits of drug traffickers.

Plumas songs El Belicon and Siempre Pendientes are believed to be dedications to the Jalisco cartels main rival, the Sinaloa cartel. While Pluma has not confirmed these assumptions, he has previously explained that some cartel leaders pay musicians to write narcocorridos in their favour.

The Jalisco cartel is considered to be the second most powerful drug cartel in Mexico, after the Sinaloa cartel. In February, Mexican band Grupo Arriesgado, from the Sinaloa area, had also faced threats from the Jalisco cartel. They ultimately cancelled their scheduled Tijuana concert.

In July, Pluma announced his first stadium shows in Mexico, which includes Tijuana on 14 October.

He had been nominated in the Best Artist category at the 2023 MTV VMAs, but rapper Ice Spice ended up taking the category. Find the full list of winners here.
Mexican Ambassador to Korea Carlos Penafiel Soto gives a welcome speech during the "213th Anniversary of the Independence of Mexico" event at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, Wednesday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin



By Kim Hyun-bin



Mexican Ambassador to Korea Carlos Penafiel Soto commemorated the Anniversary of the Independence of Mexico, Wednesday, marking his first presiding role since assuming office in February this year.



The ambassador emphasized the multifaceted relationship between Mexico and Korea, highlighting its profound economic implications during the "213th Anniversary of the Independence of Mexico" event at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul.



"Relations between Mexico and the Republic of Korea have grown stronger, clearly reflecting the maturity of our strategic partnership built over the past six decades. Our governments maintain an excellent bilateral political dialogue, which contributes to bolstering our overall relationship and tackling any challenges that might arise," he said.



"But it is our economic ties which are the backbone of our partnership. The absence of a trade agreement notwithstanding, our bilateral trade reached $30 billion U.S. dollars in 2022 and more than 2,000 companies registered with Korean capital are established in Mexico."



Korea has rapidly risen from being Mexico's sixth-largest global trading partner to securing the third position within just three years, surpassing more traditional trading partners in North America and Europe.



Korea has also emerged as one of the largest foreign investors in Mexico, largely attributable to changes in global supply chains brought about by the nearshoring trend. Mexico's strategic geographical location and other comparative advantages have played a crucial role in attracting Korean investments, according to the Embassy of Mexico in Seoul.



Soto emphasized that Mexico and Korea share common ground on numerous international and regional issues.



"Beyond our bilateral ties, Mexico and the Republic of Korea share numerous positions and coincidences in the international and regional landscapes: the value of multilateralism, the maintenance of peace, sustainable development, the fight against climate change, the promotion of free and safe trade, and the protection of human rights," he added.





Mexican traditional dancers perform on stage during the "213th Anniversary of the Independence of Mexico" event at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, Wednesday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin
Comedian Pete Davidson talked rehab as he kicked off a comedy tour. (Lloyd Bishop / NBC / NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images)

Pete Davidson has that post-rehab glow.

The "Saturday Night Live" alum, who hit the road on a comedy tour with comedian John Mulaney and political talk-show host Jon Stewart this month, kicked off his set at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino's Etess Arena in Atlantic City, N.J., on Sunday by addressing his most recent stint in treatment for substance abuse issues.

"I am fresh out of rehab, everyone," Davidson exclaimed, according to People. "I got that post-rehab glow. Seventh time's the charm!"

During his set, Davidson disclosed that he had taken ketamine daily for four years before checking himself into a rehabilitation facility in June.

According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, ketamine can be used to treat depression. It is referred to as a dissociative anesthetic hallucinogen because it makes patients feel detached from their pain and environment, and can induce a state of sedation and amnesia.

"It was magical," Davidson continued during his set, joking that his ketamine use had led to some psychedelic trips.

"One time, I got the Wiggles to mesh with 'Schindler's List,'" he said.

"The King of Staten Island" star also admitted that he was so high while attending Aretha Franklin's funeral in 2018 that he couldn't believe he'd gone out in public.

But Davidson, who turns 30 in November, told the audience that he thinks he's on the verge of having to outgrow his substance abuse issues, saying, "You can't do drugs in your 30s" because at that point "it's not cute anymore" and "you're just a drug addict."

Read more:John Mulaney opens up about addiction and rehab, and Alex Timbers has his back

Of course, outgrowing a substance abuse problem isn't the way addiction works, which Davidson appears to be aware of  but hey, it's a stand-up show, and many comedians have copped to using humor to cope with trauma, as Davidson has in the past.

The "SNL" alum has been open about his mental health struggles over the years. In a conversation with Glenn Close for the Variety "Actors on Actors" series, the comedian opened up about being diagnosed with borderline personality disorder in 2017.

I was always just so confused all the time, and just thought something was wrong, and didnt know how to deal with it," Davidson recalled. Then, when somebody finally tells you, the weight of the world feels lifted off your shoulders. You feel so much better.

He then explained why he found stand-up appealing, referencing the death of his father, Scott Davidson, a firefighter who died while responding to the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001.

"Theres obviously tons of more courageous jobs, but I do think it is courageous to get onstage in front of people because it is terrifying," he said. "The reason why I think I was able to do it is because a shy thing happened to me when I was really young. We lost my dad. When I was 16, I always wanted to try it because it was what got me by  Eddie Murphy and Chappelle and Bill Burr. My friends were like, 'You should do it.' And it went OK."

Read more:'SNL' channeled Pete Davidson's love life for comedy. That made him feel 'insecure'

Davidson told Jon Bernthal on the "Real Ones" podcast earlier this year that he also struggled with PTSD from his father's tragic death.

"My dad told me he was gonna pick me up from school on 9/11. I got picked up by my mom, he began. She didnt tell me what was going on for like, three days. And she kept telling me, Dads at work, Coming home, whatever. I had no idea."

One night I turned on the TV and I just saw my dad on TV, and I was like, Oh, OK, Davidson continued, explaining that the news was showing all the firemen that had died.

It was weird because we didnt know he was dead for, like, three weeks, he added. They were finding people, you know? ... And there was just some sort of hope. And like, it was just up and down, and nobody knew how to deal with it.

Davidson added that the trauma of the ordeal left him with severe abandonment issues  a symptom of borderline personality disorder.

You know, Dad says hes coming to pick you up and he doesnt," he said. "For life, Im like, I dont believe anyone, and Im trying to learn how to believe people  and Hollywood isnt exactly the greatest place to learn that skill.

Sign up for L.A. Goes Out, a weekly newsletter about exploring and experiencing Los Angeles from the L.A. Times.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, shown in June, has threatened to attempt to block the Biden administration's "remain in Texas" policy. (Eric Gay / Associated Press)

Republican lawmakers have vowed to stop the Biden administration from forcing some migrant families to remain in Texas while awaiting their initial asylum screenings.

The Times reported last week that the administration was considering the "remain in Texas" idea, which would involve tracking migrants' locations using GPS monitoring devices such as ankle monitors. Immigrant advocates criticized the plan, calling it punitive and misguided.

Republican leaders, including Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, have said they would attempt to block the policy should it be instituted.

It should be 'remain in Mexico,' not 'remain in Texas,'" Abbott said Monday on Fox News. "We have a lawsuit ready to go that will eliminate this threat by Joe Biden if he dares try to pull the trigger on it."

Abbott has bused thousands of migrants to Democratic cities including New York and Los Angeles since 2022 and promised to send more should the Biden administration attempt to enforce the policy.

In Washington, Texas Republican Rep. August Pfluger introduced an amendment to a government funding bill that would prohibit the Department of Homeland Security from spending any money to advance the "remain in Texas" plan. The existence of the amendment was first reported by Fox News.

"It's not a coincidence that the Biden Administration began considering a 'Remain-in-Texas' policy the same week that New York City Mayor Eric Adams openly criticized the chaos at our border and stated that the migrant crisis 'will destroy New York City,'" Pfluger said in a news release. "Liberal sanctuary cities like New York that openly obstruct federal immigration laws and have policies in place to shield criminals from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) should not be immune to the crisis at our border. Bidens Remain-in-Texas policy must remain in the trash can. I will fight any efforts by this administration to force Texans to bear the brunt of their immigration crisis."

Department of Homeland Security officials had previously said that they are constantly reviewing immigration policies.

DHS continuously holds policy and operational discussions on how to leverage our authorities to ensure a fair, humane and effective immigration process that efficiently removes those without a lawful basis to stay in the country, a department spokesperson said last week.

Supporters of the "remain in Texas" effort believe it could help speed up deportations of families who fail the initial asylum screenings and deter other families from entering the country at all.

In recent months, Border Patrol has encountered more families at the southern border. More than 60,000 families crossed the border in July alone, and although official numbers for August have not been released, the Washington Post reported recently that the August number was an all-time record.

The government also attempted to force migrants to remain in Texas at the tail end of President Reagan's administration in the late 1980s.

Local officials criticized the effort, but a federal court eventually ruled it could continue.

Get the best of the Los Angeles Times politics coverage with the Essential Politics newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) said on Wednesday that he wishes President Biden and former President Trump would stand aside and allow both political parties to choose new leadership for the 2024 presidential contest.

Romney, 76, made the comment while talking to reporters in his office following his retirement announcement earlier in the day.

I think it would be a great thing if President Biden and former President Trump were to stand aside and let their respective parties pick someone in the next generation. President Biden, when he was running, said he was a transitional figure to the next generation. Well, time to transition.

I think both parties would be far better served if they were going to be represented by people other than those of us from the baby boom generation, Romney continued.

The Utah Republican also pointed to a Washington Post column by David Ignatius that was released earlier on Wednesday calling for the president to decide against a reelection bid.

Romneys comments come hours after he said that he will retire at the end of 2024 and not seek a second term next year. He argued that he did not want to serve into his early- and mid-80s, especially when the outlook for getting legislative items done would not be as rosy as it has in recent years.

The decision not to seek a second term likely means that Romneys three-decade long political career will come to an end. In addition to his Senate years, he was the 2012 GOP presidential nominee when he lost the general election to former President Obama and served as governor of Massachusetts for a single term.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Sean Penn would like to repurpose his Oscars into bullets for Ukraine after Will Smith's slap heard 'round the world. (Joel C Ryan / Joel C Ryan/invision/ap)

Sean Penn would like to repurpose his Oscars into bullets after Will Smith's slap heard 'round the world.

The Oscar-winning actor, producer and humanitarian sat down with Variety for a new profile and his interview spans the gamut from thoughts on A.I. in Hollywood to his fury over the Academys refusal to allow Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to speak at the 2022 Academy Awards following the Russian invasion. In recent years, Penn had been on the ground in Ukraine while filming a documentary about the besieged nation and its leader.

The Oscars producer thought, Oh, hes not lighthearted enough. Well, guess what you got instead? Will Smith! Penn told Variety, which described him as enraged when recounting the ordeal.

Penn continued that he had only met Will Smith once and even praised him as an actor, He seemed very nice when I met him. He was so f good in King Richard.

Read more:Actor Sean Penn wants U.S. to help rescue Ukraine from Russian invasion

But then he decried his behavior at the 2022 Oscars, and his peers for giving Smith a standing ovation after the "King Richard" actor had just slapped Chris Rock.

So why the f did you just spit on yourself and everybody else with this stupid f thing?" he continued. "Why did I go to f jail for what you just did? And youre still sitting there? Why are you guys standing and applauding his worst moment as a person?

This f bulls wouldnt have happened with Zelensky," Penn added. "Will Smith would never have left that chair to be part of stupid violence. It never would have happened.

Penn further described his reaction to Zelensky being snubbed for what ultimately unfolded in his place, saying he wanted to destroy his own two Oscars. I thought, well, f, you know? Ill give them to Ukraine. They can be melted down to bullets they can shoot at the Russians.

Read more:Sean Penn joins Sean Hannity to discuss Russian invasion of Ukraine

The "Milk" actor 63, will be releasing "Superpower," a documentary on the war in Ukraine, next week. The documentary, which was presented at the Berlin International Film Festival, began in 2021 as a closer look at Zelenskys ascent from a star actor to respected political figure, but became something more after the Russian bombings in the Ukraine capital of Kyiv.

We set out to tell a lighthearted tale of this comedic actor who had been elected president of Ukraine and instead became witness to a historic leader and his countrys war for freedom, Penn said in a press release. When you step into a country of such incredible unity, you realize what we [in the United States] have all been missing."

Sign up for L.A. Goes Out, a weekly newsletter about exploring and experiencing Los Angeles from the L.A. Times.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
As dusk set across Australia, a large silver-eyed creature emerged from its rocky hiding place to feed. Traces of the animals presence  its shed skin  hung off vines nearby.

Scientists found the dead skin and its former keeper. The reptile turned out to be a new species.

Researchers ventured into rocky areas along the Queensland coast and nearby islands in search of local wildlife, according to a study published Sept. 11 in the journal Zootaxa.

Early on in the surveys, co-author Conrad Hoskin began noticing a silver-eyed lizard, he told McClatchy News.

Researchers found 23 of these silver-eyed lizards lurking among the rocks, the study said. Taking a closer look, they realized theyd discovered a new species: Amalosia saxicola, or the rock zigzag gecko.

The rock zigzag gecko is considered large, reaching about 4.6 inches in size, researchers said. It has a slender body with several spurs, or large, pointed spikes, near the base of its tail, and silver eyes.

Photos show the rock zigzag gecko. It has a tannish-brown coloring with a zigzag pattern down its back. The pattern is made of two spiky lines down its sides that roughly align at each point. Whitish spots also dot the zigzag, photos show.

An Amalosia saxicola, or rock zigzag gecko, perched on a mossy surface.

The new species coloring helps it blend into its stony habitat, photos show. A rock zigzag gecko with darker brown coloring looks particularly well-camouflaged.

Hoskin described the rock zigzag gecko as big and beautifully patterned.

Researchers found the new species in rocky peaks and slopes, boulder-fields, and rocky gullies, which were often in rainforest environments. During the day, the lizards hide in the rocks. They emerge at dusk and spend the night foraging for insects around the stones and plants, the study said.

The geckos shed skin was regularly found hanging from rock surfaces, vines or spider webs in rock overhangs, researchers said.

An Amalosia saxicola, or rock zigzag gecko, blending into a boulder.

The new species was named saxicola after its rock-dwelling lifestyle, researchers said.

Researchers found the rock zigzag gecko along the mid-east Queensland coast and on many rocky offshore islands. This range is centered around Bowen, a town about 1,000 miles northwest of Sydney.

The new species was identified based on its coloring, scale patterns, spurs and body proportions, the study said. DNA analysis found the new species had a high genetic divergence from other zigzag geckos. Hoskin said the species had at least 25% genetic divergence.

The research team included Conrad Hoskin and Patrick Couper. Researchers also discovered four more new species of zigzag gecko: a large woodland gecko, a mountain-dwelling gecko, a sap-licking gecko and a small pale gecko.

Zigzag geckos are an understudied group of lizards found across eastern and northern Australia, researchers said. The geckos are named after the distinctive zigzag pattern that runs down their backs.

Large woodland creature  with ladder-like pattern  discovered as new species

Heavy rain wakes up 22-legged dormant crustaceans lurking in Joshua Tree

Elusive mountain creature  with metallic purple body  discovered as new species
(Reuters) -The presidential candidate of Mexico's leftist ruling party, Claudia Sheinbaum, a close ally of the current president, is favorite to win the 2024 election, a new opinion poll showed.

Sheinbaum, of the National Regeneration Movement (MORENA), had 47% support in a three-way match-up of leading contenders, according to the poll of 1,205 men and women by EnkollSurvey for Spanish newspaper El Pais, published late on Wednesday.

The candidate of the main opposition alliance, Xochitl Galvez, garnered 30% backing in the contest that polls suggest is likely to be won by a woman for the first time.

Those polled were asked to choose between Sheinbaum, Galvez, and former foreign minister Marcelo Ebrard, Sheinbaum's main rival for MORENA presidential nomination. The survey results also included those who expressed no preference.

Ebrard denounced the MORENA primary process as unfair, and has left open the possibility of joining the center-left Citizens' Movement, the only significant opposition party that has yet to select a presidential candidate.

The poll showed Ebrard winning 15% support as MC candidate against Sheinbaum and Galvez.

In a head-to-head contest between the two female front-runners, Sheinbaum got 55% support and Galvez 34%.

The face-to-face voter poll was carried out at the beginning of September and has a sampling error of plus and minus 2.83%, with a confidence level of 95% for the main survey indicators.

Sheinbaum, 61, has vowed to uphold the political legacy of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

(Reporting by Raul Cortes and Natalia SiniawskiEditing by Stefanie Eschenbacher and Alistair Bell)
By Max A. Cherney

(Reuters) -The South Korean chip startup Panmnesia has raised a seed round that values it at $81.4 million, the company said.

Panmnesia's business is focused on developing intellectual property around a technology called Compute Express Link (CXL), which allows big data center operators to pool devices such as AI accelerator chips, processors and memory.

Memory is often a bottleneck for crunching data for AI applications, and pooling it with CXL technology could make it substantially more efficient, the company says.

"We do not have a standard interface, so it's very difficult to accommodate all the different AI accelerators in the data center," Panmnesia CEO Myoungsoo Jung told Reuters on Tuesday.

Jung said the companys technology could be of interest to chip design software makers such as Synopsys and Cadence Design Systems. Synopsys and Cadence declined to comment.

The company raised $12.5 million led by Daekyo Investment. Other investors included SL Investment, Smilegate Investment, GNTech Venture Capital, Time Works Investment, Yuanta Investment and Quantum Ventures Korea.

The South Korean government aims to spur the domestic AI chip industry and plans to spend $800 million over the next five years in an attempt to increase the share of Korean AI chips in domestic data centers to 80% in 2030 from essentially zero.

(Reporting by Max A. Cherney and Stephen Nellis in San Francisco; Editing by Gerry Doyle and Miral Fahmy)
As some GOP donors have been raising questions about South Carolina Senator Tim Scotts single status, he tried to quell concerns by saying he has a wonderful girlfriend.

In an interview with the 2024 presidential candidate earlier this week, Fox News host Brian Kilmeade brought up a recent Axios story that detailed how some donors have pushed for more details about Mr Scotts bachelorhood.

Kilmeade asked, What is your status?

Well obviously, at this point Im taken, Mr Scott said. I have a wonderful girlfriend. We have a wonderful relationship.

The good news is that God has blessed me with a smart Christian woman, he continued. But more importantly is, why are the headlines there? The headlines are there because as I rise in the polls, as people show up at my town halls, it scares my opponents.

FiveThirtyEight polling averages from 11 September show Mr Scott polling at 2.3 per cent, putting him behind former President Donald Trump, Florida Gov Ron DeSantis, entrepreneur Vivek Ramasway, former South Carolina Gov Nikki Haley, former vice president Mike Pence, and former New Jersey Gov Chris Christie.

Kilmeade then asked, We met your mom. Will we meet your girlfriend?

Mr Scott replied, You will, of course  at some point.

The South Carolina senator weighed in on his unmarried status in May, telling Axios: The fact that half of Americas adult population is single for the first time, to suggest that somehow being married or not married is going to be the determining factor of whether youre a good president or not  it sounds like were living in 1963 and not 2023.

In US history, there have only been a handful of unmarried presidents. James Buchanan is the only former president to have never married, while Grover Cleveland got married for the first time while in office.

The outlet also spoke to sources who relayed the potential donors apprehensions about Mr Scott.

One source underscored that Mr Scott isnt the first candidate in recent history to run as a bachelor. Cory Booker went through the same thing running for president in 2020 and it seems to not have been a problem for him  but maybe thats more normal for Democrats.

However, the source didnt mention that Republican Senator Lindsey Graham was also scrutinised in the same way when he put his hat in the ring for the GOP nomination in 2016. Mr Graham addressed his single status in 2015: If you are looking for Camelot, Im not your guy...If youre looking for glitz and glamour, Im probably the worst choice in the bunch. If you are looking for a determined person to be president, I think I can fill that bill.

When asked why he thought he had never been married, he replied: Its something I really dont know the answer to, other than I think its OK. At the end of the day, theres nothing wrong about not being married. Having a marriage and a good family and children is a blessing. But I dont think Im a defective person by any means.

In response to the potential donors sentiment, Mr Scotts spokesperson told the outlet: Tim Scotts optimistic, positive message continues to resonate with Iowa and New Hampshire voters who are focused on issues impacting their families.

Mr Scott previously touted his 30-year-old virgin status. Years later, when asked in 2012 if was sticking to the same abstinence pledge at the age of 46, he replied, Yeah, not as well as I did back then. Mr Scott added, Youre better off to wait. I just wish we all had more patience.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) said tech entrepreneur Elon Musk should be investigated for his personal influence on how Starlink satellite internet can be used in Ukraine.

Musk confirmed last week that he prevented the Ukrainian military from using Starlink internet during an attack on Russian forces last year, raising questions about his personal influence on foreign policy and events.

We need to investigate how this happened. Whats in those contracts that permits him to have this kind of power? Warren told reporters after Musk participated in a congressional forum on artificial intelligence on Wednesday.

She also called on the Department of Defense to scrutinize its contracts with Musks companies, most notably contracts with SpaceX to purchase its own Starlink satellites.

It is also the responsibility of the Department of Defense to go back and take a look at those contracts, she said. That kind of activity poses a danger to the United States, to Ukraine and to the rest of the world.

A biography about Musk released Tuesday noted that the Ukrainian military was denied the ability to use Starlink internet satellites for a drone mission targeting the Russian Navy fleet based in Sevastopol, Crimea last year.

The book says that lost internet connection meant the drones washed ashore harmlessly.

Musk said his decision to limit Starlink access was because he did not want to be responsible for a potential escalation of the war. The move has brought widespread criticism, including from senior Ukrainian government officials, but also came with recent praise from Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Musk has long pushed for peace in the conflict, even pitching a peace plan last year that was friendly to the Russian side. He reportedly spoke directly with Putin before releasing the proposal.

The Biden administration has generally avoided commenting on Musk. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he cant speak on the issue in an interview Sunday.

Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall also declined to criticize Musk but noted that more oversight of contracts may be warranted.

If were going to rely upon commercial architectures or commercial systems for operational use, then we have to have some assurances that theyre going to be available, Kendall said Monday. We have to have that. Otherwise, they are a convenience  in peacetime, but theyre not something we can rely upon in wartime.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin shake hands during their meeting at the Vostochny Cosmodrome outside the city of Tsiolkovsky, Russia, Wednesday (local time). Reuters-Yonhap



Putin accepts Kim's invitation to visit N. Korea



By Lee Hyo-jin



A high-stakes summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday signals a "new normal" of North Korea-Russia relations, according to analysts.



"Spurred by the Ukraine war and hostility toward the West, the two countries are deepening their relations to a level not seen after the collapse of the Soviet Union," said Cho Han-bum, a senior researcher at the state-run Korea Institute of National Unification.



"It is a 'new normal' of North Korea-Russia relations," he added.



How long the friendship will last depends on the course of the Ukraine war, Cho said.



The summit was held amid speculation that Pyongyang would provide ammunition and artillery shells to Moscow in return for Russia's technological support to develop its weapons and military satellites. While both countries have not disclosed details of the talks, Russia said the discussions included a range of "sensitive topics."



"It depends on how the war situation will develop. But if Russia becomes less desperate for munitions, relations with North Korea would no longer be a priority for Putin," Cho said.



On Thursday, Kim's bulletproof train was seen traveling toward the far eastern city of Khabarovsk, according to Russian media outlets, apparently on a tour around an aircraft plant at Komsomolsk-on-Amur. The far eastern city is located some 1,200 kilometers east of Vostochny Cosmodrome space center in Amur Oblast, where the summit was held the previous day.




(iStock)

As summer comes to a close, be prepared to see a wave of soft launches on your social media feeds.

Soft launch September was dubbed by The Cut back in 2021 as the natural precursor to cuffing season, defined as the period between fall and winter when lonely singletons get cuffed or tied down by a serious relationship or at least a relationship long enough to last the cold weather. But unlike cuffing season, the soft launch trend is specific to social media, as summer flings take things to the next level by hinting at their relationship on their platform of choice.

The term soft launch initially went viral thanks to a since-deleted tweet from Bottoms actor Rachel Sennott. In 2020, she aptly described the social media trend when she wrote: Congrats on the Instagram soft launch of ur boyfriend (pic on story, elbow and side profile only).

Although the term is more widely used among online circles, it has slowly made its way into the pop culture vernacular. The slang term refers to the common practice of gradually introducing a new significant other to ones social media following, originating from a marketing practice in which they tease a new product to drum up interest and excitement. From a carefully choreographed snap of a pair of significantly manlier hands diving into a romantic meal or a picture of your significant others literal shadow beside your own, a soft launch can come in many forms, but the number one rule is you never show their face.

Whether you have used the term or not, youve likely soft launched someone at one point or another, but the reasons why someone might choose to soft launch can make or break a relationship.

Susan Winter, a relationship expert and the bestselling author of Older Women/Younger Men, tells The Independent that the practice of soft launching tests the waters of this new romance, as well as the reaction from our friends and family.

Dating can be an emotional minefield and people can easily get hurt if they jump the gun. Its prudent to be cautious in todays world of modern dating, the New York City-based relationship expert says. The partner that acts oh so into us today, can just as easily ghost us tomorrow.

Thats why Winter stressed that its wise to proceed with optimism and restraint in a new relationship, because a romance that begins too hot too fast can burn out just as quickly.

Hurt from past relationships can widely inform just how public people choose to take their next romance, and many Gen-Zers find themselves apprehensive out of fear. Concerns stem from a belief that posting someone too early in the relationship could spell disaster, and scrubbing an ex from your social media can oftentimes be a painstaking process.

Austin-based production coordinator Chloe McKenna remarked to The Independent that soft launching can be an easy way out if [the relationship] goes south, while Casey Siefert - a restaurant host in Portland, Oregon - said its easier to end a relationship that never existed on social media if you decide to soft launch.

However, some people prefer to hard launch their relationships, choosing to fully post photos of the person theyre dating - face visible and all. They may even go so far as to caption their posts hard launch, as Lizzo did when she announced her relationship with boyfriend Myke Wright earlier this year. Hard-launching is like the digital version of wearing your heart on your sleeve, but being that vulnerable online isnt for everyone.

In May, dating app juggernaut Tinder revealed that soft-launching is far more popular among its Gen-Z and Millennial users. According to Mashable, data suggested that one in four, or 26 per cent, of 18 to 34 year olds would rather soft launch their new significant other, while only eight per cent would commit to a hard launch.

Because theres so much uncertainty that comes with dating in a digital age, many people have decided to keep their relationships offline. For ballerina Olivia Starling, who often finds herself torn between hard launching a new significant other on social media and not posting about [them] until theres a ring, soft-launching is a happy medium. As someone who has moved around a lot for work and is often in long-distance relationships, the Miami-based dancer told The Independent that she finds soft launching can be a way to not only reduce strain and pressure on the relationship, but also reassure her significant other.

According to Starling, theres also the added perk of being more present in the moment. By posting only glimpses of her current relationship on social media, Starling can keep their romance more sacred. I love our cooking time, wine nights, and chill nights in. I never feel the need to whip my phone out and document it publicly, she said.

By easing your nascent relationship onto social media, it can be healthier for your relationship in the long run. According to a 2021 study, psychologists linked increased activity on Instagram with a decrease in relationship satisfaction.

Publicising relationships on social media can not only put undue pressure on them, but also make the relationship vulnerable and subject to scrutiny, especially in relationships between celebrities. Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly hard-launched their relationship with a music video for his single Bloody Valentine a mere two months after meeting on the set of Midnight in the Switchgrass. Theyve since become a frequent tabloid fixture and courted controversy, with many of their intense declarations of love, like proclaiming they drank each others blood, maligned by the public and turned into a pop-culture punchline.

In May 2018, Ariana Grande famously hard-launched Pete Davidson after less than a month of seeing each other and only a month after her break up with the late rapper Mac Miller, who she had dated for two years. After they became engaged in June of that year, the couple was subject to frequent online criticism and ridicule that ultimately pushed Davidson to remove all his photos on Instagram and let his account go dark that July. In an Instagram Story at the time, he wrote of his decision, explaining: The internet is an evil place and it doesnt make me feel good. At the time, Grande turned off the comments on her account as well, and has since exercised caution when introducing new relationships to her fans.

Fear of public backlash is especially prevalent in queer relationships, according to Madeleine Ciano, a television program coordinator who identifies as bisexual. Its hard enough with societal pressures, but the added layer of homophobia and bigotry raises the stakes, according to Ciano, especially when it calls your safety into question. Ciano explained that she didnt hard launch her girlfriend, knowing that she would open [herself] up to a lot of vitriol on social media.

People comment horrible things people go out of their way to find and target social media accounts of people who happen to be queer, Ciano explained, acknowledging that the potential backlash scared her. But after soft-launching her girlfriend, she said that she was able to weed out those who were nasty and unsupportive. She said that with a soft launch, you can see what kind of initial response you get and know whether the reaction will be fine, or too much to handle.

In an increasingly digital world and a decrease in privacy, it can be hard to figure out how much you want share online, that is, if you want to share anything at all. Although regular people are not beholden to a fanbase like a celebrity might be, the pressure to go public can still be overwhelming.

By soft-launching, youre essentially putting training wheels on your relationship. Conversations concerning privacy and past hurts can be given their due dilligence, and explored between you and your significant other without external pressure. But at the same time, you are indicating to others - whether it be with a faceless elbow or a cinematic silhouette- that when you take the next step, itll be when youre finally ready.
By Joseph Ax

(Reuters) - Wisconsin's Republican-controlled Senate voted on Thursday to oust the state's nonpartisan top elections official, Meagan Wolfe, a frequent target of right-wing attacks since Donald Trump's 2020 election loss.

Democrats say the attempt to remove Wolfe was illegal. In a statement after the vote, Democratic Governor Tony Evers said he was directing the state Department of Justice to file a lawsuit to ensure Wolfe can remain in her job.

Voting rights advocates have argued that the Republican move will fuel conspiracy theories about the integrity of the state's election system ahead of 2024, when Wisconsin is likely to be a crucial swing state in the U.S. presidential race.

Wolfe, who has served as administrator for the state elections commission since 2018, told reporters following the vote that she had no intention of stepping down unless ordered to do so by a court.

"The 2024 election cycle begins in less than three months," she said. "There is such important work ahead, and my hope is that we quickly get the clarity that we need from the courts."

In June, the bipartisan commission deadlocked on whether to nominate her to another four-year term, after Democrats deliberately abstained from the vote because they feared the Republican-majority Senate would not confirm her. That left the commission short of the four votes needed under state law to reappoint Wolfe.

Democrats have pointed to a recent state Supreme Court ruling that officials whose terms expire remain in their position in the absence of a legitimate replacement.

"The Senate cannot simply manufacture a nomination that does not exist," Democratic Senator Mark Spreitzer said on the Senate floor ahead of the vote. "Any vote that is taken today on this nomination has no legal force."

In August, the state's Democratic attorney general, Josh Kaul, said in a letter that "there is no question" that Wolfe is still administrator and that the nomination before the Senate was improper.

Wolfe has faced sustained right-wing criticism since the 2020 election, when Trump claimed falsely that he had won the state, citing unsubstantiated claims of fraud. Trump is now the front-runner in the Republican nominating race to challenge Democratic President Joe Biden in 2024.

Republicans have also faulted Wolfe and the commission for policies adopted during the coronavirus pandemic intended to make it easier to vote, such as ballot drop boxes, which were later outlawed by the state Supreme Court.

The Republican majority leader of the Senate, Devin LeMahieu, said Wisconsin voters needed to have confidence that there is no fraud in the state's elections.

"The fact is that Wisconsinites have expressed concerns with the administration of elections both here in Wisconsin and also nationally," he said on the floor.

The move against Wolfe is the latest effort by the Republican-controlled legislature to exert its influence over other branches of state government.

Some Republican lawmakers have threatened to impeach Democratic state Supreme Court Justice Janet Protasiewicz, whose electoral victory earlier this year gave liberals a majority on the high court for the first time in years.

The court is expected to decide whether to uphold the state's 19th-century abortion ban in the coming months, among other significant cases. Republicans have faulted Protasiewicz for public comments she made during the campaign that they say demonstrated her bias.

(Reporting by Joseph Ax; Editing by Colleen Jenkins, Daniel Wallis and Diane Craft)
A woman was able to hide during a home invasion and called 911 from inside a closet, California officials said.

Officers arrived at a Westminster home Sept. 11 after getting the womans whispering 911 call to find four masked men armed with handguns running out of the front door, the Westminster Police Department said in a news release.

When police got inside the house, they found five people: a 14-year-old, 7-year-old and three adults, officials said.

Four of the people were tied up in the homes living room, police said. The fifth was the woman police said made the 911 call.

The men are accused of breaking into the home and using a stun gun to gain compliance while asking where the people kept their valuable items, police said.

One of the suspects, identified as Danny Sommay, 29, was taken into custody after police said he threw a stolen handgun over a brick wall.

The Huntington Beach Police Department helped search for other suspects via helicopter but werent able to find them, according to the release.

Sommay was booked into the Orange County Jail on charges of kidnapping, burglary, robbery and other charges, police said.

Westminster police urge anyone with information to call 714-548-3759.

Westminster is about 30 miles southeast of Los Angeles.

Naked intruder walks into room with three sleeping kids, California police say

Woman fights off naked intruder after waking with him beside bed, California cops say

Two pose as firefighters to break into home evacuated in wildfire, Washington cops say
California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) said Tuesday that he was not given a heads-up about the new city tech billionaires are trying to build near San Francisco.

I was told about five minutes before my phone lit up that there was an article about to post, and I was immediately intrigued, Newsom said at a forum hosted by Politico. They said, youll be more intrigued after you see it.

Newsom is curious, he said, and will meet with a representative of the development soon.

California Forever is the parent company of Flannery Associates, the company behind the project. Some of its investors include LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, Laurene Powell Jobs and venture capitalist Marc Andreesen. According to the California Forever website, Flannery has bought more than 50,000 acres in Solano County, which is nestled between San Francisco and Sacramento and close to the Travis Air Force Base.

To date, our company has been quiet about our activities, the group wrote on the website. This has, understandably, created interest, concern, and speculation.

The website details a vision for the area: walkable communities, local jobs, reducing homelessness, improvements to schools and public safety and investments in infrastructure. In the days since the New York Times reported the development, the project has received mixed reviews.

With the secretive purchasing of the land, some members of the public suspected the project was an attempt by a foreign government to acquire land near the air force base. Newsom said it was interesting how quickly the China track was brought up and is a point of consideration and caution for all of us.

At Politicos forum, Newsom said the investors may have hurt their own credibility.

Ill be candid with you. They started a little behind in my book because of the fact that they let so much intrigue and so many questions, so theres a lot more doubt now and a lot less trust, he said Tuesday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
After the Pennsylvania prison escapee Danilo Cavalcante was handcuffed Wednesday morning, but before he was placed into the back of an armored van, several dozen heavily armed officers gathered around him in an arc.

Cavalcante was positioned in the front, with an officer holding his arms. One officer holding a 22-caliber rifle went down to one knee and held the weapon up. The K-9 dogs involved in the search stepped toward the front. And other officers in the back spread out to get a clear view.

Together, they all looked in one direction  at an officer holding up a phone to take a photo.

The group photo, captured in overhead video from CNN affiliate KYW, came after a nearly two-week long manhunt for Cavalcante, a convicted murderer who escaped August 31 from a prison in Chester County, Pennsylvania.

At a news conference about an hour after his capture, Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens said he had no problem with the picture.

Those men and women worked amazingly hard through some very trying circumstances, he said. Theyre proud of their work. Im not bothered at all by the fact that they took a photograph with him in custody. Again theyre proud of their work. They kept the community safe. I say thanks to them and good job.

In all, about 500 law enforcement officers  including members of the Pennsylvania State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI and US Marshals  participated in the manhunt that took them through hilly, rugged terrain in a rural area about 30 miles from Philadelphia.

Cavalcante was captured Wednesday morning by a tactical team from the State Police and the US Border Patrol. A police dog subdued the fugitive before officers took him and his stolen .22-caliber rifle into custody, Bivens said.

The group photo was one of a number of police photos taken of Cavalcante. Displayed next to Bivens at the news conference was a photo of the fugitive in handcuffs and wearing a Philadelphia Eagles sweatshirt.

Escaped inmate Danelo Cavalcante is shown after being captured. - Pennsylvania State Police

CNN chief law enforcement and intelligence analyst John Miller said he believed a photo of the captured fugitive was important to show the community that the threat of the past two weeks was no more.

I think it has a legitimate public purpose rather just for their photo collection, he said.

Charles Ramsey, the former Philadelphia Police Commissioner, expressed his disapproval of the group shot, referring to the image as a trophy photo.

Im not a fan of that sort of thing. Be professional, he said. You got him in custody. Do your job, and the rest of that stuff save for some other place.

CNN law enforcement analyst and former FBI director Andrew McCabe said there was nothing illegal about the photo and praised the officers efforts even as he acknowledged some criticism.

Anything that we do that creates an impression of gratuitousness or kind of self-congratulatory feel, I think doesnt help the publics perception of law enforcement, McCabe said. I think its unfortunate but pretty small compared to the massive accomplishment they achieved.

Cavalcante stripped of clothes

Further, before Cavalcante was placed into the armored van, officers cut off his sweatshirt and revealed a large tattoo on his back, the overhead video shows. They then stripped him to his underwear, and an officer took several photos of the front and back of his left leg.

Stripping a prisoner is standard procedure, Bivens said. Cavalcante sustained a minor bite wound on his scalp from a police dog, Bivens said.

Miller said these photos were possibly to identify his markings or tattoos to make sure they have the right person.

In addition, stripping a prisoner of their clothes is a way to check that they dont have any dangerous items on them, McCabe said. Taking photos at this point can also document any injuries.

He might be injured from his time out on the run, and you want to make sure you document his physical condition before you take custody of him inside of a car where hes locked in essentially with only two officers, McCabe said. You want to make it very clear if he has been bruised or badgered or injured in some way, those things happened before he came into custody.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The actress was one-half of one of the most popular soap supercouples of the '90s

Bell-Phillip Television Inc./Gilles Toucas Rena Sofer

General Hospital fans can expect a familiar face returning to Port Charles next month.

Rena Sofer  the 54-year-old actress who won an Daytime Emmy for playing Lois Cerullo, the effervescent, fast-talking, long fingernail wearing, Italian bella donna with the thick Brooklyn accent  is returning to the beloved ABC soap opera after a 26 year absence, the network has confirmed exclusively to PEOPLE.

It's a big treat for viewers, who will remember Lois as one-half of one of the soap world's most popular supercouples of the '90s, alongside Wally Kurth's Ned Ashton. The character was played by Daytime Emmy winner Lesli Kay from 2005 to 2005.



Sofer, who taped her first scenes this week, will be on-air come October.



Lois' reappearance comes at a time when Ned, her ex-husband, is suffering from amnesia  which is nothing but bad news for his current wife, Olivia (Lisa LoCicero), especially since he thinks he's Eddie Maine, Ned's alter ego who was a leather-loving rock star (literally) 30 years ago. Back in 1993, Lois immediately took a liking to Eddie after seeing him perform with his band, The Idle Rich. She went on to work as his manager, not knowing at the time that Eddie was actually the wealthy Ned Ashton by day and Eddie by night.



ABC, Inc. Ned and Lois (Wally Kurth, Rena Sofer)

The two eventually fell in love and got married. But being a soap opera and all, the happily ever after was just a blip on the screen because he was also forced to wed Katherine Bell (Mary Beth Evans), who was blackmailing Ned's family, the Quartermaines.

After finding out that her Eddie was a bigamist, Lois popped out of Katherine's giant birthday cake and greeted her with "Happy Birthday to Mrs. Ned Ashton, from the other Mrs. Ned Ashton!" And that was the end of Lois and Ned's marriage, at least for a little while.

Ned did everything in his power to win Lois back, and he eventually succeeded. He proposed, she said yes, and they got married. But they hit a rough patch when she gave him an ultimatum  their marriage or his loyalty to his family and its business, ELQ  and he chose the family business.

Lois left town in 1997with a broken heart and headed back to her hometown of Bensonhurst, New York, where she gave birth to their daughter, Brook Lynn (currently played by Amanda Setton).

Related: 'General Hospital' Celebrates 60 Years! See Past and Present Stars Gather for Stunning Cast Photo

Fast forwarding to show's recent storyline, Ned  who now goes by the surname Quartermaine  is married to Olivia but that marriage isn't doing well because of Ned's amnesia. Although they have agreed that they're better off as friends, Olivia is truly falling in love with him.

Needless to say, this is the perfect time for Lois to pop into the picture.

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.

Soap fans began to speculate  or maybe it was just wishful thinking  that Sofer would return to GH when she left her role as Quinn Fuller on The Bold and the Beautiful after nine years. The actress  who off-camera, shares a daughter with Kurth, whom she was married to from 1995 to 1997  has also had memorable roles on Melrose Place, Seinfeld and Two and a Half Men.

Lois' presence could turn both Olivia and the Quatermaine family's worlds upside-down depending on how Ned/Eddie reacts when he sees her.

Will Lois just pop into town to check on her daughter and then pop right out? Or is there more to her stay? Will the amnesiac Ned think that he is still married to  and therefore, still in love with  Lois, leaving Olivia outta luck? ABC is remaining tight-lipped about the upcoming storyline.



Related: Happy 60th Anniversary, 'General Hospital' ! PEOPLE Is Celebrating with a New Special Edition

Sofer's return isn't the only big news coming out of General Hospital. John J. York (Mac), 64, announced Wednesday in a video posted to his social media accounts that he is in treatment for two blood and bone marrow disorders, which he was diagnosed with in December 2022.

Over the past many months, Ive had three bone marrow biopsies, many chemo treatments, I have another one coming up in a couple of weeks, and Im closing in on a blood stem cell transplant, York said.

He added that he will be out at GH for at least three or four months as treatment continues.



For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
(Reuters)

Supposed aliens found in Mexico make no sense, a scientist has said, and are lacking in proof.

This week, strange looking, humanoid bodies were presented in Mexicos Congress. They were claimed to be extraterrestrial, and immediately kicked off internet excitement that the first ever alien remains had been found.

But scientists have been quick to point out that there is no good evidence that the remains are real  and that they might not be bodies at all. Even others who had taken part in the same hearings criticised the reveal as an unsubstantiated stunt.

At the Congress hearings, Mexican journalist Jose Jaime Maussan presented two boxes with supposed mummies found in Peru, which he and others consider non-human beings that are not part of our terrestrial evolution.

The shrivelled bodies with shrunken, warped heads left those in the chamber aghast and quickly kicked up a social media fervour.

Its the queen of all evidence, Maussan claimed. That is, if the DNA is showing us that they are non-human beings and that there is nothing that looks like this in the world, we should take it as such.But he warned that he didnt want to refer to them as extraterrestrials just yet.

The apparently desiccated bodies date back to 2017 and were found deep underground in the sandy Peruvian coastal desert of Nazca. The area is known for gigantic enigmatic figures scraped into the earth and seen only from a birds-eye-view. Most attribute the Nazca Lines to ancient indigenous communities, but the formations have captured the imaginations of many.

In 2017, Maussan made similar claims in Peru, and a report by the countrys prosecutors office found that the bodies were actually recently manufactured dolls, which have been covered with a mixture of paper and synthetic glue to simulate the presence of skin.

The report added that the figures were almost certainly human-made and that they are not the remains of ancestral aliens that they have tried to present. The bodies were not publicly unveiled at the time, so it is unclear if they are the same as those presented to Mexicos congress.

On Wednesday, Julieta Fierro, researcher at the Institute of Astronomy at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, was among those to express skepticism, saying that many details about the figures made no sense.

Fierro added that the researchers claims that her university endorsed their supposed discovery were false, and noted that scientists would need more advanced technology than the X-rays they claimed to use to determine if the allegedly calcified bodies were non-human.

Maussan has done many things. He says he has talked to the Virgin of Guadalupe, she said. He told me extraterrestrials do not talk to me like they talk to him because I dont believe in them.

The scientist added that it seemed strange that they extracted what would surely be a treasure of the nation from Peru without inviting the Peruvian ambassador.

Congressman Sergio Gutierrez Luna of the ruling Morena party, made it clear that Congress has not taken a position on the theses put forward during the more than three-hour session.Believing or not was up to each member of the legislative body, but those who testified had to swear an oath to tell the truth.

Gutierrez Luna stressed the importance of listening to all voices, all opinions and said it was positive that there was a transparent dialogue on the issue of extraterrestrials.

After the hearings were over, Ryan Graves  a former US fighter pilot who has described unexplained encounters with flying objects  said that he had been disappointed by who he had shared a stage with. He said that he had accepted the invitation hoping to keep up the momentum of government interest in pilot experiences with UAP.

Unfortunately, yesterdays demonstration was a huge step backwards for this issue, he wrote on Twitter. I will continue to raise awareness of UAP as an urgent matter of aerospace safety, national security, and science, but I am deeply disappointed by this unsubstantiated stunt.

Popular scientist Brian Cox also said that the supposed corpses were way too humanoid.

Its very unlikely that an intelligent species that evolved on another planet would look like us. Secondly - send a sample off to 23andme - let alone the University down the road - and theyll tell you within 10 minutes, he wrote on Twitter.

Additional reporting by Associated Press
President Yoon Suk Yeol delivers his speech during the 77th United Nations General Assembly at the U.N. headquarters in New York, Sept. 21, 2022. Yonhap



President to visit New York from Sept. 18 to 23 for UN General Assembly



By Nam Hyun-woo



While the summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin is anticipated to be the talk of the town during next week's United Nations General Assembly, President Yoon Suk Yeol's message toward China will likely determine how the drift of tensions will flow in Northeast Asia.



Yoon will make a six-day trip to the United States from Sept. 18 to 23 to attend the high-level General Debate of the 78th U.N. General Assembly which will begin on Sept. 19 in New York, according to Yoon's office. At the event, Yoon is set to deliver a keynote speech, which will contain South Korea's commitment as a non-permanent member of the U.N. Security Council.



"During his U.N. speech, there will be Yoon's message on the military exchange between North Korea and Russia," a senior official at the presidential office said. "There are ongoing discussions with major friendly nations including the U.S. and Japan on separate and multilateral measures (on the military exchange)."



During the event, participating leaders are expected to pay attention to the summit between Kim and Putin which took place on Wednesday, and the potential consequences for the ongoing war in Ukraine.



During their talks, Putin dropped hints at Russia helping North Korea's attempts to build what it claims are satellites, fueling palpable suspicions that Moscow is seeking supplies of ammunition and artillery shells from Pyongyang in return for missile and advanced military technologies.



This is anticipated to have multiple implications at the upcoming U.N. gathering, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will attend. If the North provides ammunition to Russia, the scope of international debate and concern over the war in Ukraine will expand from Europe to Northeast Asia.



This is anticipated to trigger the North Atlantic Treaty Organization to further strengthen cooperation with friendly partners in Northeast Asia, namely South Korea and Japan, despite China's concerns.



The Kim-Putin talks are also expected to trigger debates on whether Russia, a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council, is poised to violate sanctions against North Korea with its purported technology transfer.



So far, Russia and China have opposed the Security Council slapping additional sanctions on North Korea, fueling doubts about the effectiveness of the council. If the Kim-Putin talks raise further criticism of the role of the Security Council, Beijing may also find itself in an awkward position.





North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin attend a meeting at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the far eastern Amur region of Russia, Wednesday. Reuters-Yonhap
Taiwan hits back at Elon Musks claim that it is part of China

Taiwans Ministry of Foreign Affairs has hit back after Elon Musk called the self-ruled island an integral part of China.

Speaking remotely at the All-in Summit, which took place in Los Angeles this week, Musk compared Taiwans relationship with China to that of Hawaiis with the United States.

[Beijings] policy has been to sort of reunite Taiwan with China, said the Tesla (TSLA) CEO, who claimed he understands China well.

From their standpoint, you know, maybe its analogous to like Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China mostly because  the US Pacific Fleet has stopped any sort of reunification effort by force.

Taiwan is a democratic island that the Communist leadership in Beijing has long claimed as part of its territory, despite having never controlled it. Hawaii has been an official US state since 1959.

Listen up, Taiwan is not part of the PRC [and] certainly not for sale! Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said in a Wednesday statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, referring to the country by its official name, the Peoples Republic of China.

Joseph Wu is Taiwan's foreign minister. - Sam Yeh/AFP/Getty Images

Wu pointedly added that he hoped Musk can also ask the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) to open X to its people.

Like other Western social media platforms, X, which is now owned by Musk, has long been blocked in mainland China by authorities.

China ties

Musks comments were made in response to a question about the challenges faced by American businesses in China.

Because of his business interests in China, Musk has met with senior leadership at many levels in China, he noted, adding that he felt he had a pretty good understanding of the country for an outsider.

Musk visited China earlier this year, where he held court with numerous government officials and visited Teslas Gigafactory in Shanghai. In April, he announced plans for a new battery factory in the city.

Musk has been effusive in his praise for Tesla vehicles produced in Shanghai, saying they are associated with not just the most efficient production, but also the highest quality.

During his May visit, Musk said he was opposed to the idea of a US-China decoupling amid geopolitical fissures, calling the interests of both countries intertwined like conjoined twins.

Tesla is deeply reliant on China, with deliveries from the Shanghai facility accounting for more than half of its global sales.

The electric carmaker is bullish on the worlds biggest auto market, though it has encountered issues there.

In recent years, some Chinese government ministries have banned the companys vehicles from entering their premises over purported security fears.

The electric vehicle maker has also slashed prices for its cars in China several times this year, reigniting a price war in the industry, where it is in second place behind market leader BYD.

In Taiwan, Tesla has a sales and charging network.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Donald Trump and 16 other co-defendants in the Georgia election interference case will be tried separately from lawyers Kenneth Chesebro and Sidney Powell, the judge in the case has ruled.

Defendants Chesebro and Powell will join each other at trial, however, the other 17 defendants are severed from these two. Additional severances may follow. All pretrial deadlines will proceed as scheduled without a stay of proceedings, Judge Scott McAfee at the Superior Court of Fulton County wrote in a ruling issued on Thursday.

The trial for Mr Chesebro and Ms Powell is set to go ahead on 23 October.

The move comes after Mr Chesebro and Ms Powell invoked their right to a speedy trial, the judge noted. Their motions to sever their cases from each other were denied but the court found that severing the remaining 17 co-defendants is simply a procedural and logistical inevitability, leading to the motions to sever from Mr Chesebro and Ms Powell being granted in part.

Severance is an absolute necessity. Additional divisions of these 17 defendants may well be required, the judge, 34, added. That is a decision for another day once the many anticipated pretrial motions have been resolved and a realistic trial date approaches.

The judge wrote that joint trials are generally favoured because they promote judicial efficiency and prevent inconsistent verdicts.

He added that any defendant who doesnt waive their right to a speedy trial before 23 October, as Mr Trump has, will immediately be added to that trial.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis attempted to get all 19 defendants in the case, including the former president, to be tried together.

Breaking this case up into multiple lengthy trials would create an enormous strain on the judicial resources of the Fulton County Superior Court, prosecutors wrote in a filing.

But Judge McAfee wrote in his order that the precarious ability of the Court to safeguard each defendants due process rights and preparation ensure adequate pretrial preparation on the current accelerated track weights heavily, if not decisively, in favor of severance.

Judge McAfee added that there are also a number of logistical challenges to holding a trial with that number of defendants.

The Fulton County Courthouse simply contains no courtroom adequately large enough to hold all 19 defendants, their multiple attorneys and support staff, the sheriffs deputies, court personnel, and the states prosecutorial team, he wrote. Relocating to another larger venue raises security concerns that cannot be rapidly addressed.

Mr Trump and his 18 co-defendants have all pleaded not guilty to all the charges they face. The former president has argued that the racketeering indictment is politically motivated and that the charges of election interference against him are actually interfering with his 2024 run to take back the White House.

In the indictment, Mr Chesebro is accused of creating a plan to employ alternate electors to stop President Joe Biden from reaching the required 270 electoral votes to become commander in chief. Mr Chesebros lawyers have argued that he was simply fulfilling his duty to his client as an attorney, according to ABC News.

Ms Powell stands accused of conspiring to commit election fraud by supposedly urging others to tamper with ballot markers and machines at a Coffee County elections office.
The White House on Wednesday vigorously defended the administration's deal with Iran to free five detained Americans in exchange for unfreezing $6 billion in Iranian oil revenue and the release of five Iranian citizens in U.S. custody.

The $6 billion in Iranian assets is coming from a restricted account in South Korea, where it was effectively frozen when the U.S. reinstated sanctions against Tehran after former President Donald Trump left the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on Iran's nuclear program and will be transferred to Qatar with restrictions that Iran can use it only for humanitarian purposes. Secretary of State Antony Blinken signed off on the blanket waiver that paved the way for the funds transfer, and Congress was informed of the move on Monday.

National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby insisted during a press briefing Wednesday that "Iran will be getting no sanctions relief" despite Republicans calling it "ransom."

"It's Iranian money that had been established in these accounts to allow some trade from foreign countries on things like Iranian oil. ... It's not a blank check. They don't get to spend it anyway they want. It's not $6 billion all at once. They will have to make a request for withdrawals for humanitarian purposes only," he said, adding that there will be "sufficient oversight to make sure that the request is valid."

Kirby was cautious not to reveal much about the detained Iranians that are part of the deal, saying it's still an ongoing process, but in general, said the crimes were "largely in the realm of sanctions evasions."

The detained U.S. citizens include Siamak Namazi, Emad Shargi and Morad Tahbaz, as well as two others who asked that their identity not be made public. Two Iranians, Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, who was indicted by the Department of Justice in 2021 on counts that included conspiracy, violations of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and money laundering, and Kaveh Lotfolah Afrasiabi, who was charged by DOJ in 2021 with "acting and conspiring to act as an unregistered agent of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in violation of the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA)," are on the list for a possible swap.

PHOTO: From left to right split shows photos of Emad Shargi, Morad Tahbaz and Siamak Namazi (Handout)

Pressed on why the $6 billion needed to be released in addition to the five Iranian prisoners, Kirby said, "This is the deal we were able to strike to secure the release of five Americans."

"We're comfortable in the parameters of this deal. I get - I've heard the critics that somehow they're getting the better end of it. Ask the families of those five American's who's getting the better end of it and I think you'd get a different answer," he said.

When asked about Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's claim that the money is "fungible," Kirby said, "He's wrong. He's just flat out wrong."

PHOTO: National Security Council spokesman John Kirby speaks during the daily briefing at the White House, Sept. 13, 2023. (Susan Walsh/AP)

Kirby said the funds in this agreement are "not a payment of any kind" and "not ransom" to secure the release of the Americans.

But Republicans blasting the planned swap earlier this week said the deal was a "ransom" and "sanctions relief."

"As Chairman of the [Republican Study Committee], we will use all legislative options to reverse this agreement and prevent further ransom payments and sanctions relief to Iran," Rep. Kevin Hern tweeted Tuesday.

The Republican chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Michael McCaul, also expressed doubt on Wednesday that the funds would go only to humanitarian causes.

"Where is that going to go?" he said on Fox News. "It's going to go into terror proxies. It's going to go into building a nuclear bomb. This terrifies Israel and the surrounding nations in the Middle East, like Saudi Arabia. This is probably one of the worst foreign policy moves I've seen."

ABC News' Desiree Adib contributed to this report.

White House defends planned US-Iran prisoner swap amid fierce GOP criticism originally appeared on abcnews.go.com


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.
British Ambassador to Korea Colin Crooks, back row eighth from left, and embassy staff promote the Chevening Scholarship at the U.K. Embassy in Seoul, Tuesday. Courtesy of U.K Embassy in Seoul



By Kim Hyun-bin



The British Embassy in Seoul commenced the application process for the Chevening Scholarships, Tuesday, which offers successful candidates the opportunity to pursue a master's degree in the 2024-25 academic year at leading universities in the United Kingdom.



The annual scholarship program, founded in 1983 by the U.K. Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, provides comprehensive funding, encompassing tuition fees and living expenses for a diverse array of master's degree programs offered by over 150 universities in the U.K.



To date, the program has awarded 1,200 scholarships to Korean students, who have pursued a wide range of subjects, including gender, peace and security, energy and climate policy and public health for development, at prestigious U.K. institutions such as the London School of Economics and Political Science, the University of Sussex and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Many of these Chevening alumni have gone on to become leaders in their respective fields. Eleven Korean scholars already selected for this academic year will begin their studies in the U.K. this month.



"For four decades, Korea's brightest young talents have had the opportunity to study at world-class British universities thanks to the Chevening scholarships. Whether your ambitions involve pioneering innovations in advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, offering solutions to address climate and biodiversity crises or aspiring to leadership roles in government or business, a U.K. master's degree holds immeasurable value," British Ambassador to Korea Colin Crooks said.



"If you are interested in participating in the Chevening program, please ensure your application is submitted before the November deadline."



Applications for the Chevening Scholarships will be accepted through Nov. 7. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and possess a minimum two years of work experience.


YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. In an ongoing disinformation campaign, the Azerbaijani authorities have once again falsely accused the Armenian military of opening fire on the border, the Armenian ministry of defense said Thursday.

The statement disseminated by the [Ministry of Defense] of Azerbaijan that from 9:35 p.m. on September 13 to 12:45 a.m. on September 14 the Armed Forces units of the Republic of Armenia allegedly opened fire on the Azerbaijani combat positions located in the eastern and northeastern parts of the border, does not correspond to reality, the Armenian ministry of defense said in a statement.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) on Thursday evacuated 9 patients requiring urgent treatment from Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia, the Nagorno-Karabakh Ministry of Healthcare reported.

All patients were accompanied by their attendants.

The ICRC plans to transport 1 patient who has completed treatment in Armenia back to Nagorno-Karabakh later today.

21 children remain hospitalized in the Arevik clinic. 6 of them are in neonatal and intensive care.

88 patients are hospitalized in the Republican Medical Center. 4 of them are in intensive care, 3 of whom are in critical condition.

Lachin Corridor, the only road connecting Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia and the rest of the world, has been blocked by Azerbaijan since late 2022. The Azerbaijani blockade constitutes a gross violation of the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh ceasefire agreement, which established that the 5km-wide Lachin Corridor shall be under the control of Russian peacekeepers. Furthermore, on February 22, 2023 the United Nations highest court  the International Court of Justice (ICJ) - ordered Azerbaijan to take all steps at its disposal to ensure unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo along the Lachin Corridor in both directions. Azerbaijan has been ignoring the order ever since. The ICJ reaffirmed its order on 6 July 2023.

Azerbaijan then illegally installed a checkpoint on Lachin Corridor. The blockade has led to shortages of essential products such as food and medication. Azerbaijan has also cut off gas and power supply into Nagorno Karabakh, with officials warning that Baku seeks to commit ethnic cleansing against Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on Thursday met with the former Italian Prime Minister, former President of the European Commission Romano Prodi.

Prodi is currently visiting Armenia and was recently awarded an honorary doctorate degree by the Yerevan State University.

PM Pashinyan congratulated Prodi on receiving the high-level academic recognition and welcomed his visit to Armenia.

Nikol Pashinyan underscored the need for Yerevan State Universitys cooperation with experienced figures like Romano Prodi and added that todays meeting will give the opportunity to discuss various issues of mutual interest, the Prime Ministers Office said in a readout.

Romano Prodi thanked for the warm hospitality and said that hes happy to visit Armenia.

Pashinyan and Prodi exchanged views on a number of issues related to the ongoing processes in the region and the international arena.
On September 13, 2023, at the DSEI 2023 event in London, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and 2Excel Aviation announced a collaborative agreement aimed at advancing the deployment of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) in the United Kingdom. The partnership's initial focus will be expanding 2Excel Aviation's existing regulatory approvals for uncrewed operations, utilizing IAI's maritime version of the Heron drone.

Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link



IAI and 2Excel Meeting at DSEI 2023 (Picture source: IAI )

Both companies recently conducted successful demonstrations of the Heron drone at West Wales Airport in Aberporth, Wales. These demonstrations, attended by UK government officials and civil aviation experts, showcased the drone's capability to operate as a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) platform within the UK's existing regulatory framework. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) responded favorably to the demonstrations, indicating a positive outlook for future uncrewed operations in the country.

The Heron drone has accumulated over 500,000 hours of global operations. Equipped with an array of advanced sensors, cameras, and communication tools, the drone is versatile and capable of fulfilling various roles such as search and rescue, border surveillance, fisheries monitoring, and maritime safety.

Boaz Levy, President and CEO of IAI stated, "Our partnership with 2Excel Aviation aims to leverage the combined strengths of both companies in manned and unmanned operations. This collaboration will focus on meeting the UK's maritime intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) needs. We are optimistic that our combined expertise will expedite compliance with CAA regulations and pave the way for Heron's operations in the UK."

Andy Offer, Co-Founder and Director of 2Excel Aviation added, "Our initial demonstrations have already shown that the Maritime Heron can operate effectively in restricted UK airspace. This new agreement will allow us to further develop these capabilities in real-world conditions. Rapid technological advancements are opening new avenues for generating actionable intelligence, which could be invaluable for a diverse set of clients."

What is certain is that since the conflict in Ukraine, drones have gained prominence, and it's not surprising to see a new collaboration emerging in the sector. The key question now is what this collaboration will bring to the UK drone systems.
The exact number of the passengers is not known, but sources said that around 30 people mostly school children were on the boat

Reports indicate that 20 persons have been successfully rescued, while a search operation is underway to locate several others. (Representational Image/ANI)

Patna: At least 10 persons, including children and women, went missing when a boat capsised in the Baghmati River in Bihars Muzaffarpur under the Gaighat police station on Thursday.

Reports indicate that 20 persons have been successfully rescued, while a search operation is underway to locate several others. The precise count of passengers remains uncertain, but sources indicate that approximately 30 people, primarily school children, were on board when the accident occurred.

In response to the incident, dedicated teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) mobilised for an immediate rescue operation.

"Our team swiftly arrived at the scene following reports of a boat carrying 25-30 children and other civilians falling in the Baghmati River. It has been reported that approximately 10-12 individuals are still unaccounted for, said officials involved in the rescue operation.

Muzaffarpur District Magistrate Pranav Kumar, briefing reporters, said, "The rescue operation is now underway, and officials have been instructed to establish a presence in the area and provide assistance to those affected."

Local residents shed light on the circumstances, explaining that the children were using the ill-fated boat to cross the river on their way to school. They lamented, "The children rely on this boat as there are no other means of crossing the river. We have long been advocating for a bridge in the area, but no action has been taken thus far."

Meanwhile, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar assured that officials are stationed near the accident site. He stated, "The district administration is maintaining constant communication with the affected individuals, and the rescue operation is actively ongoing. The state government remains committed to offering comprehensive support and assistance to the affected families."
by Alessandra De Poli

Many changes have occurred since 2013, University of Nottingham Professor Hongyi Lai told AsiaNews. The New Silk Road" has expanded to new sectors but several infrastructure projects are being implemented at a slower pace. Chinas economic woes will not end soon.

Milan (AsiaNews)  This month marks ten years since Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a speech at Nazarbayev University in Astana, Kazakhstan, launching what came to be known as the New Silk Road", formally called the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in English.

Beijing will mark the occasion with a big summit next month; however, a lot has changed since its inception. Many countries have joined. Some have benefited greatly while others, like Italy, are trying to get out. Meanwhile, Chinas economy is now facing increasing difficulties.

Prof Hongyi Lai, a social scientist at the School of Politics and International Relations, University of Nottingham (United Kingdom), Chinas current difficulties will have a long-term impact, and not be solved soon.

"The impact of the Belt and Road Initiative on the economies of individual countries depends on how they are involved in the project, said Hongyi Lai, who has studied Xi's political reforms and their impact.

The New Silk Road is often described as a single large infrastructure project, but it is much more. It began because China needed new markets and wanted to propose a new image of itself, different from the one created by Western propaganda.

Known as "One Belt, One Road" in Mandarin (), BRI has provided China with several avenues of cooperation with other countries over the years.

Centred initially on four pillars (policy coordination, infrastructure connectivity, financial integration, unimpeded trade), it has been extended to other sectors.

A maritime silk road was added to the overland version, then came the health road, the digital road and even space, as did the use of local currencies, lending through the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Silk Road Fund. Great emphasis has also been placed on cultural exchange and connecting people as well.

"The BRI announcement was accompanied by great enthusiasm ten years ago, now things are much less rosy," Lai explained. "At the start, it seemed that China had achieved great economic results in a short time, and for this reason, it managed to include important European economies in the project, especially through the AIIB.

However, if we look more closely at what the AIIB does, investments are not always directly linked to BRI. ranging instead from the energy sector to agriculture, environmental protection, telecommunications, and sanitation.

In any event, there have been many changes in recent years related both to the initiative itself and China's external relations. A series of circles with Beijing in the middle best illustrates the degree of involvement in the BRI.

In light of all of Beijings initiatives, The countries that have benefited the most from the initiative are so far in Southeast Asia, geographically and economically closest to China, and those in Central Asia, Lai said. The economies of some allied countries in South Asia, such as Bangladesh and Pakistan, also benefit from their proximity to China."

Conversely, India, Chinas rival, quickly made it clear that it did not want to be part of it and now, with the help of the United States, it is trying to act as an alternative, especially in the Middle East.

Still, despite the somewhat dampened enthusiasm, new BRI-related projects are being implemented in accordance with a typically Chinese approach, slow but sure over the long period.

One example is Afghanistan. China is the first country to send an ambassador to that country since the Taliban came back to power in 2021.

Rather than fill the vacuum left by the West, Beijing will exploit Afghan mineral wealth and energy resources to connect the Sino-Pakistani economic corridor to Central Asia.

This issue might come up at the third BRI forum scheduled next month, which should be attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"In the last decade, energy trade between Russia and China has grown tremendously, and Beijing has invested in the development of Russian know-how."

In Africa, many countries definitely benefited from the BRI in the early years, because they gained economic infrastructures quickly, but now there is a greater desire to develop local projects and manufacturing sector using local resources. Strong cultural differences with China are an added factor.

I don't think this can be stopped in the future, but it could be counterbalanced by European and US initiatives. In short, the level of BRI involvement around the world is largely uneven.

Italy is in a delicate situation. In March 2019, Rome signed a memorandum of understanding with the Peoples Republic of China, but now, under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, it has signalled its intention of pulling out of the pact with Beijing. Among Italian government officials, this has raised concerns because of possible economic retaliation.

"China has imposed tough economic sanctions on South Korea, Australia and, to some extent, Japan, Prof Lai noted. These countries, together with the US and other allies are not in the BRI".

Still, as large economies, they have managed to overcome economic obstacles. I don't think that the consequences for Italy would be so serious. While the European Union and the United States are putting pressure on Italy, for China it is more a question of image.

Countries should decide to join or not the BRI based on long-term cost-benefit considerations, not ideology, especially if they want to avoid the debt trap.

"It's often easy to put all the blame for foreign debt on China; it's still a two-way relationship. Of course, the initial enthusiasm may have obscured long-term consequences. A striking example is the case of Sri Lanka, which today finds itself having to repay several creditors, not only China, and this weighs heavily on its economy.

For those in this situation, things are very critical, because Chinas economy no longer looks like what it was ten years ago, when it needed new outlets.

Today, for Lai, great uncertainty reigns "due to choices made during the COVID period and a personalistic leadership that prioritizes politics and nationalism far above economic growth and people's welfare". This is different from the collective and institution-driven leadership that characterised China before Xi Jinping.

It is well known that some sectors have suffered greatly due to Xis unilateral choices. The fact that only one person decides creates great anxieties among foreign investors.

The loss of investment has pushed the situation into a negative, self-reinforcing economic spiral. This means that it is very hard to go back.

Former Chinese President Hu Jintao also went through a period of great change, but he had been much more cautious in economic decisions." For this reason, Lai contends, the current situation is unlikely to be resolved on the short run.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

In Dushanbe, transport ministers are discussing an agreement to facilitate the overland movement of goods and people. But border disputes and conflicting interests between individual countries make this path fraught with obstacles. The major project of a China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan corridor competes with the East-West lines through Kazakhstan.

Dusanbe (AsiaNews) - The meeting of the transport ministers of the five Central Asian countries was held on 13 September in Dusanbe, in preparation for the summit of heads of state on 15-16 September, to evaluate the agreement on the "Strengthening of mutual relations of land transport".

The document will have to be signed by the presidents, and could constitute the most impactful topic of the entire assembly, beyond the many areas of negotiations.

Logistics is in fact one of the crucial problems of the entire economy of the region, both for the transport of loads by rail and trucks, and for the stimulation of real competition on the market of services linked to the movement of goods and people.

The final aim is the creation of international corridors, including intermodal ones, as explained in the statement released by the ministers via the Tajik agency Khovar.

Central Asia is trying to finally emerge from its historical state of isolation and backwardness, even if the specialist of the Russian International Research Institute, Alexander Knyazev, warns that the challenges to be faced are truly demanding: "for example, three of the five countries are not members of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAES), and the two members, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, are forced to observe customs rules on the borders of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, creating a series of contradictions with the agreement proposed in these days".

Furthermore, already in recent weeks, Kazakhstan has limited transport from Kyrgyzstan as a result of vested interests linked to the distribution of water resources, a problem that is regularly renewed every three-four months.

The Kazakhs then tend to collect more tax revenues from the Kyrgyz, also to demonstrate Astana's loyalty to the anti-Russian sanctions regime to Western partners. According to Knyazev, "Kazakhstan has ceded its customs sovereignty to its American counterpart."

Even the border problems between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are still far from reaching definitive solutions, despite the ongoing negotiations after the armed conflicts, and the borders between the two countries are still very closed, so much so that there are no direct flights between Bishkek and Dushanbe.

The agreements currently under discussion risk functioning in fits and starts between the various border lines, especially on those towards Uzbekistan, while Turkmenistan will, as always, remain rather reticent about openings.

Tajikistan's transporters currently have to take "endless" routes to bypass the territory of Afghanistan through Azerbaijan, the Caspian, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, and there are no guarantees that the new agreement will be signed, and then respected, by all five countries in the region.

Also last year, a declaration of intent On friendship, good neighborliness and cooperation for the development of Central Asia in the 21st century was signed, to which Tajikistan and Turkmenistan did not join.

The major underlying project is the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan route, which is developed in competition with the East-West lines through Kazakhstan, although for now only in the automotive dimension.

When long-distance railway lines begin to be built, the conflicting interests will also involve Russia, which in turn has a great need to multiply communication routes with China, especially in the southern part through Xinjiang.

This would create a direct conflict between Moscow and Astana, which would risk losing the monopoly of this sector, with unpredictable consequences.

In any case, the development of cooperation in regional logistics will be inevitable, and is supported by the UN and the entire international community, apart from the USA and the EU, having great geopolitical significance in the turbulent phase we are going through.

The countries of Central Asia, with all their historical contradictions, can no longer do without them, somehow also dragging Russia, not only to unite East and West, but also North and South Asia, a dimension that is anything but secondary.
Those who do not comply with the new rule will be prevented from working abroad for three years after their work permit expires. Military representatives announced that the Russian credit card payment system, called Mir, will be implemented. While the army is criticised for using cluster bombs, Moscow sends the first batch of fighter jets.

Yangon (AsiaNews) - Myanmar's coup junta has asked Burmese workers who go abroad - particularly to Thailand - to pay at least 25% of their remittances through the national banking system.

The measure, which came into force on September 1, was imposed by the cash-strapped military through CB Bank, writes the website The Irrawaddy, a local newspaper that continued to monitor the situation in Myanmar even after the coup d'etat in February 2021 On that date the Burmese army seized power, ousting the government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, starting a brutal civil conflict.

Those who do not comply with the new rule, continues the bank's statement, will be prevented from working abroad for three years after the expiry of their work permit. From now on, anyone who migrates abroad will be forced to open a joint account at the Central Bank of Myanmar, where at least a quarter of their salary will have to be paid, before they can leave.

The decision, however, risks impoverishing migrant workers and families who receive remittances at home due to the use of official exchange rates, which are very different from the market ones used to send money informally through hundi intermediation ( sometimes also called hawala), the Asian practice through which a trustee is responsible for transferring money from one person to another.

At the moment, one US dollar is officially worth 2,100 kyat, while the market value stands at 3,400 kyat. The same thing therefore applies to Asian currencies: one Thai baht (around 2 million Myanmar citizens work legally in Thailand) is converted to 100 kyat in the informal market, compared to the 56 that are exchanged by the Burmese army. Since the coup, 400,000 people have left Myanmar for Thailand with regular work permits.

Army spokesmen also announced that the Russian Mir payment system (a word that translates as "peace") could come into operation from next month, in a context in which ties between representatives of the Burmese army and Russian officials they get tighter and tighter.

The communication came from Kan Zaw, Minister of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations of the junta, who declared it on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russia, adding that the two countries are evaluating the negotiation of an agreement on the conversion of national currencies.

Mir is a card payment system similar to Visa and MasterCard, and was established by the Russian Central Bank in 2017 in response to Western sanctions.

In one week, as many as five officials from the Burmese coup junta went to Russia, after direct flights between Yangon, Mandalay and Novosibirsk restarted last week after 30 years. In the next few days the junta's Foreign Minister, Than Shwe, will also travel to Belarus, which like Moscow sells weapons to the Burmese regime.

At the moment, in fact, the most prosperous exchanges between the two countries are those involving weapons: the Minister of Trade of the military junta, Charlie Than, declared to the Russian state news agency RIA Novosti that the Burmese army has received the first batch of two Russian Su-30 fighter jets, after Moscow and Yangon signed an agreement for the supply of six jets in total in September 2022.

These are the same fighter jets responsible for killing hundreds of Burmese civilians. A recent report drawn up by the Cluster Munition Coalition criticized the use on several occasions (most recently in June) of cluster bombs by the Burmese military junta in the states of the country where the strongholds of the anti-coup resistance are concentrated. These are weapons similar to those used by Russia in Ukraine and which, according to the investigation, killed or injured civilians in 95% of cases during 2022.
Aspen Journalism is an independent, nonprofit, investigative organization covering environment, water, social justice and more. Visit aspenjournalism.org. Aspen Journalism, which is solely responsible for its editorial content, is supported by a grant from Pitkin Countys Healthy Community Fund.
Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.
Hahm Sung-deuk, dean of the Graduate School of Political Studies at Kyonggi University, speaks during an interview with The Korea Times in Seoul, Sept. 6. Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk



Incheon city commemorates 73rd anniversary of Operation Chromite



By Lee Hyo-jin



On Sep. 15, 1950, some 260 naval ships and 70,000 troops of the U.S.-led United Nations forces alongside South Korean troops landed on Incheon's coast, west of Seoul, in a bold counteroffensive against North Korea's invasion.



The Incheon Landing Operation, also known as Operation Chromite, is celebrated here as the pivotal moment that changed the tide of the 1950-53 Korean War, as it allowed the South Korean forces to recapture Seoul from North Korean troops.



To this day, the port city of Incheon remains a symbol of the ironclad alliance between South Korea and the U.S.-led U.N. forces, according to Hahm Sung-deuk, dean of the Graduate School of Political Studies at Kyonggi University.



"The Incheon landing mission is one of the most effective and successful military operations in history, comparable to the Normandy landings during World War II," Hahm said during a recent interview with The Korea Times. "Based on this, Incheon can become a perfect venue for diplomatic discussions to address shared security challenges in the world."



Against this backdrop, Incheon will hold the inaugural Incheon Security Conference on Sept. 18, bringing together experts from home and abroad to shed light on pending issues surrounding the Korean Peninsula amid intensifying North Korean threats.



The event, hosted by the Incheon Metropolitan City and funded by the Graduate School of Political Studies at Kyonggi University and the Korean Institute for Presidential Studies, will be held at Oakwood Premier Hotel in Songdo.



Under the main theme "After the Ukraine War: building strong alliances," the forum will consist of two sessions each on "The Ukraine War and the U.S.-China Relations," and "ROK-U.S. Alliance amid the North Korean nuclear crisis."



Among the speakers are Victor Cha, senior vice president and Korea Chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Patrick Cronin, Chair for Asia-Pacific Security at the Hudson Institute, Ramon Pacheco Pardo, professor of International Relations at King's College London and Terence Roehrig, professor of National Security Affairs at the U.S. Naval War College.



Former U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon will give a keynote speech and former U.S. President George W. Bush will deliver a congratulatory message in a pre-recorded video.



The conference will be held during a commemorative week from Sept. 14 to 19 designated by Incheon City as a period to mark the 73rd anniversary of the Incheon Landing Operation. Various ceremonies will take place across the city, including a reenactment of Operation Chromite on Friday involving 20 South Korean navy ships, 10 aircraft and 3,300 service members.



"In the current state of waning globalization, alliances are increasingly playing a bigger role in security issues of every nation. The forum will be an opportunity to exchange ideas about the South Korea-U.S. alliance for our ultimate goal of pursuing a peaceful and denuclearized Korean Peninsula," Hahm said.



"Security policies are a matter of survival for a country. But in (South) Korea, foreign policy and security issues too often become a source of political and ideological debates," he said.



A stark contrast in foreign policy approaches between progressive and conservative governments not only creates confusion for neighboring countries, but also undermines the overall security situation of the nation, the professor said.



"A truly democratized, advanced country should be able to carry out consistent and unified security strategies regardless of which political side comes to power," he said.



"So, through this security conference, we aim to make an opportunity to emphasize and formulate security policies that both right wings and left wings can agree on, based on the notion that security is a crucial element to the nation's survival."



Following this year's conference, the Incheon Security Conference will become an annual event, he said, with a goal to gradually widen the spectrum of guests and audience.



For the third edition of the forum in 2025, the organizers seek to invite leaders of all countries that participated in the landing operation, including the United Kingdom, Canada and France, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the operation.


After launching the Super Sport for the 1964 model year with a Malibu SS badge, Chevrolet decided to turn the Chevelle SS 396 into a standalone series in 1966.The strategy made sense for everybody, especially as the SS 396 had a different purpose from the standard Chevelle . The car was available with 396 engines exclusively  the base engine produced 325 horsepower, while the top choice was rated at 375 horsepower.Chevrolet changed its mind for the 1969 model year, so the SS 396 returned to an option package for the regular Chevelle. The company also tweaked the available engine lineup, with the most common choice now dropping the output from 360 to 350 horsepower.The same engine puts the wheels in motion on this 1969 Chevelle SS 396 time capsule. As anyone can figure out from the photos, the car exhibits an impressive shape. It makes sense, as eBay seller number1team claims the car spent its entire life in a garage.If you're a professional restorer, you can already guess where this is going. As a time capsule that has always slept inside, the Chevelle SS comes with a surprisingly low mileage. The odometer indicates just 26,000 miles (approximately 41,000 km), and the owner guarantees they are original. The engine is paired with a 4-speed transmission.The car waved goodbye to the original owner in 2003, and it's been properly cared for ever since. It still wears the original paint and flexes several rare goodies, including the factory spare wheel and tire.Most original Chevelles come with typical metal problems, including rust on the floors and trunk. The time capsule exhibits no such issues, as the metal is spotless.As any connoisseur would expect, a Chevelle SS 396 can't sell cheaply, especially when ticking all the boxes for a true collectible. It has the original drivetrain, the original paint, a spotless interior, and very low mileage. The owner is ready to let the car go for $110,000.It might seem a lot at first glance, but the price makes perfect sense for a museum-quality Chevelle SS. Its place is in a wealthy collector's garage, and according to eBay statistics , 28 people are currently monitoring the listing, possibly hoping for a lower price.If you want to see this mesmerizing Chevelle SS in person, you must travel to Penngrove, California. The car can drive to its new home on its own wheels, but considering the low mileage, you might want to bring in a trailer to preserve one of its main selling points.
The successor of the iconic Rebel-based model with the same awesome name, the 1971 Machine, was a high-performance intermediate forced to fly under the radar by rising insurance costs.

Big shoes to fill

Photo: Richard Truesdell via automotivetraveler.com

The Machine Go package

Photo: Richard Truesdell via automotivetraveler.com

A genuine muscle car sleeper

Photo: Richard Truesdell via automotivetraveler.com

Only one is known to have survived

Photo: Richard Truesdell via automotivetraveler.com

Since its inception in 1954, the American Motors Corporation has managed to compete with Detroit's Big Three even with smaller facilities, fewer resources, and less manpower.It did so by offering cheap, good-quality vehicles with features like adjustable front seat backrests or standard disc brakes (on select models).By the mid-1960s, the American automotive industry saw the rise in popularity of high-performance models, which we now call muscle cars.At first, AMC was slow to adjust to this new trend, but by the decade's dawn, its lineup featured some high-powered versions of otherwise mundane rides.The first legitimate AMC muscle car (or super car, as the segment was called back then) hit the streets in 1969.Developed in partnership with Hurst Performance, the S/C Rambler came with a 315-hp 390-ci (6.4 liters) V8 taken from the sporty AMX, offering performance enthusiasts a cheaper alternative to similar Big Three models.The one-year-only "Scrambler" (as it was nicknamed) was a success for AMC, prompting the company to introduce a similar model for the 1970 model year.Based on the larger, mid-size Rambler platform, the new AMC muscle car was equipped with many performance-oriented goodies, including the 390 mill, beefed up with special heads, a hotter cam, and redesigned headers.Capable of spitting out 340 hp and 430 lb-ft (583 Nm) of twist, the upgraded V8 made the new model AMC's most potent street car.It also featured a patriotic paint scheme and one of the coolest names ever given to a muscle car: The Machine During the 1970 model year, which saw the introduction of some of the most epic muscle cars ever built, AMC managed to sell 2,326 Machines.Though that figure wasn't outstanding compared to how many performance intermediates Ford, Chrysler, and GM had sold in 1971, it was an impressive feat for AMC.The Machine was discontinued after the 1971 model year, as the Rebel was replaced by an updated intermediate called Matador, but the company didn't give up on the muscle car recipe.However, skyrocketing insurance premiums and tighter emission regulations meant that AMC had to improvise, so instead of a stand-alone model, the Matador got an exciting optional package As mentioned earlier, stricter emission regulations and the clampdown of insurance companies on high-powered muscle cars meant that American carmakers had to reduce output and improvise.To keep performance enthusiasts interested in their products and deliver a powerful intermediate, AMC cooked up the Machine Go package for the Matador range.Though it didn't benefit from any form of advertising to keep insurance companies from demanding a higher premium, the package added most of the performance hardware found on the 1970 Rebel Machine.The list of goodies included power disc front brakes, heavy-duty springs, shocks, anti-roll bars on both ends, and the Kelsey-Hayes five-spoke wheels wrapped in Goodyear PolyGlas white-lettered tires that the 1971 Machine stood on.The only item from the previous AMC muscle car not included in this special package was the Twin-Grip limited-slip diff with 3.91 gears. However, potential customers could add it to their Matador Machines for an extra fee.The Machine Go package was available only for the two-door hardtop Matador equipped with either the 285-hp, four-barrel carb 360-ci (5.9 liters) or the 330-hp, 401-ci (6.6 liters) V8 option.It added $373 to the base price of a 360-powered Matador and $461 to the 401-equipped cars, which was a great deal. For comparison, the powerful HEMI option available on the Mopar intermediates cost nearly $1,000 that year.When equipped with the 401, the Matador Machine was no Mopar slayer, yet it could run the quarter mile in a more-than-respectable 14.4 seconds.While performance was on par with its predecessor, the new Machine didn't stand out from the crowd of Matador two-door hardtops, which made it a sleeper AMC offered no special paint, decals, badging, or flashy interior upgrades, so, apart from the Machine wheels, this potent muscle car looked like any other two-door Matador.Because it lacked a muscle car identity and the company purposely omitted to advertise it as such, the Matador Machine flew under the radar during the 1971 model year, after which it was discontinued.Though no official production numbers have survived (Chrysler got rid of them after it acquired AMC), it's estimated that only 40 to 60 two-door Matador coupes were equipped with the Machine Go package.Of those cars, only one fully documented example is known to have survived. It was found in a deplorable state by Brad Denning of Summit, New Jersey, back in the late-1990sNow fully restored, the 401-equipped car lacks its original wheels and has some period-incorrect items like "The Machine" stickers, a scoop, and black stripes on the hood.Despite these inaccuracies, no other Matador Machines have surfaced in recent years, making Denning's ride the rarest AMC muscle car on the planet.
FCA US LLC, the company that used to be Chrysler before Fiat entered the scene, has issued the first recall for the Alfa Romeo Tonale PHEV and Dodge Hornet PHEV. As it happens, the 12-volt battery's positive cable and the high-voltage connector cable may not have been tightened properly from the factory, leading to an overheating condition that may result in a fire while driving or when parked.

EV

PHEV

Now in cahoots with Groupe PSA under the Stellantis umbrella, the Auburn Hills-based automaker became aware of said problem on August 23 following a report filed by an employee from the Pomigliano d'Arco assembly facility in Italy. The Hornet bears VINs beginning with ZA, which indicates that Dodge's take on the Alfa Romeo Tonale also comes from this production plant.Originally constructed by Alfa Romeo when the company was still independent, Pomigliano d'Arco was originally tasked with producing the Alfasud , the automaker's first series-production automobile with front-wheel drive. Officially referred to as the Giambattista Vico Plant, said facility also produces the soon-to-be-refreshed Panda city car.To debut on July 11, 2024 (the 125th anniversary of Fiat), the next generation takes inspiration from the Centoventi concept. Similar to the all-new 600, it's expected with at least one combustion engine and as an. Stellantis Europe S.p.A. issued a corrective action at the plant on August 24, updating the battery-powered screwdriver to make sure that loose cables won't hamper the Tonaleand Hornet PHEV ever again.The company further added results tracking to the manufacturing execution system. At press time, the automaker is aware of two field reports related to said problem, with receipt dates of July 18 and August 14. Stellantis didn't mention vehicle fires per se, but on the upside, there are no reports of crashes or injuries whatsoever.Recalled over an assembly issue rather than a design defect, the affected Hornet PHEVs were produced in the period between December 13, 2022 and August 23, 2023 for the 2023 through 2024 model years. The build dates for the Tonale PHEV range from February 9, 2023 to August 23, 2023. A grand total of 4,129 vehicles are called back in the United States of America.Owners will be informed of this blunder on October 27. Dealers will make sure the 12-volt battery's positive cable and high-voltage connector cable are tightened to the correct specifications. In the meantime, owners are urged to park outside and away from builds and other vehicles until the remedy is performed.Only available as a plug-in hybrid, the Tonale for the US market is listed at $42,995 sans destination charge, making it more expensive than a V8-powered Challenger R/T. As for the Hornet, the optional plug-in hybrid is advertised as the R/T from $40,935 as standard or $45,935 for the R/T Plus trim level. According to Dodge, the plug-in hybrid Hornet R/T is the segment's most powerful sport utility vehicle thanks to 288 horsepower and 383 pound-feet (520 Nm) of torque.
It happens a little bit later than originally expected, but Google has just announced two big apps for Android Auto.

Originally teased at I/O earlier this year, WebEx by Cisco and Zoom are now rolling out to Android Auto, with the latest versions published on the Google Play Store enabling the new in-car experience.Google promised at its spring developer event to launch the new apps "later this year," but the company never promised more specifics on the release date. Most users believed the new apps would hit the Play Store in the summer, but the parent company needed more time to prepare their apps for Android Auto.Last week, Google published a teaser on its website, suggesting that the release of WebEx and Zoom on Android Auto wasn't very far. As I exclusively reported at that point, Cisco planned to release WebEx as a beta build, as the stable version of its app wasn't ready for Android Auto.Cisco now confirms that Android Auto functionality in WebEx is currently available only in beta, but the full rollout is expected in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Zooms update is available for everyone as a stable update.Zoom and Cisco land on Android Auto with audio-only conference calls, so users have to pick up their phones for video support. The limitation makes sense for the in-car experience, as Google can't allow video on the infotainment screen for safety reasons. The same restrictions block access to YouTube and Netflix, as video content on Android Auto would increase the driver's distraction when the vehicle is in motion.Oddly, Google says the debut of WebEx and Zoom "introduces a new whole category of apps," but Microsoft Teams already offers similar functionality on Android Auto. Microsoft's software allows users to join meetings and make audio calls from the infotainment screen without touching their mobile devices.It's unclear if WebEx and Zoom support the Coolwalk interface , though I expect them to come with the full set of features. Audio calls can use a dedicated card on the Coolwalk UI, displaying information alongside the navigation app.The two apps are available from the Google Play Store right now, though the full availability should be reached in a few hours as the rollout is underway. You don't need anything special to run the apps on Android Auto. You must first configure your accounts on the Android smartphone, with all information, including meetings and scheduled calls, showing on the infotainment screen when the device is connected to the head unit.Google says more app announcements will follow shortly, but as always, the company has remained tight-lipped on further specifics in this regard. Cisco promises to push WebEx out of beta in the coming weeks.
With advancements in technology and our ability to outdo ourselves, the face of the camper world is changing. How? Let's take Grumpy Bear Campers and their Koda as the perfect example of what I mean. Better ready your checkbooks for this one, folks!

Photo: Grumpy Bear Campers

Photo: Grumpy Bear Campers

Photo: Grumpy Bear Campers

Dear outdoor-loving ladies and gents, gather 'round so that I may share the news about a little under-the-radar camper crew from right here in our own backyard in Akron, Ohio. I'm talking about Grumpy Bear Campers (GBC) and their Koda truck camper, a hunk of fiberglass that you can mount onto the rear of just about any full-size truck out there.Now, the story of GBC seems to have popped up overnight, only having been spotted in the news earlier in 2023. But, upon seeing their website for the very first time, I can't say I wasn't impressed with how Koda presents itself.At first sight, you'd think that this bugger is a monocoque shell, but in fact, it's made up of three separate fiberglass panels, bonded together and gel coated for a smooth, protective, and seamless finish. However, there's a neat little trick up GBC's sleeve; this shell isn't built by them.Instead, GBC imports its fiberglass shell from a crew all the way up in Canada. Spacekap is that crew, and they've been in the business of tampering with fiberglass since 1972. that's over 50 years of experience. But it wasn't until 1992 that Spacekap developed a transferable body At this time, it appears that Spacekap builds three different units, some smaller than others. Still, it's their Diablo, the largest of their work, that each Koda is crafted upon. Frankly, you might think that importing such shells is going to ring up a rather costly bill, but what if I told you that it doesn't?Just to give you an idea of what we're up against, GBC was reported as selling units for around the $36,000 (33,750 at current exchange rates) range, which is pretty decent once we consider all the features in place - we'll get to those. However, my grey matter really started to go wild upon seeing a new 2023 unit on GBC's website, going for just $27,500 (25,800). $27,500 for this!? Hell yes!So, what's in store for this sort of cash? Well, for starters, each unit starts off at around 1,650 lbs (784 kg), including standard features. Oh, it can also accommodate up to three people, two in the main bed, elevated above the cab, and a third on the modular dinette, found at the foot of the main bed. One aspect I need to point out regarding nighttime activities is that the double bed is designed to be an expandable one.With bedding out of the way, let's explore the rest of the systems you need to survive outdoors and wherever your truck can take you. Let's start things off with a few essential systems like the deep cycle battery, 30 A converter, 16,000 BTU furnace, and 15 gals (57 l) of freshwater. Other standard goodies include a water tank monitor and a tankless hot water heater.However, all that's typically hidden away from sight, and at your fingertips sits a galley with a fridge and one-burner top, the dinette I mentioned, and a little cupboard for a portable toilet. It may not seem like much, but the essentials are in place - it depends on who you ask, really.Now, this isn't the end of things . One feature that I'm glad is in place is an outdoor shower system, thus freeing up interior space but limiting this puppy's use to just the warmer months, not because it can't handle snow, it can, made possible by Azdel-covered walls, but because who enjoys showering in winter weather... outside? You can, however, find an indoor alternative for around $200 and try your hand at a ski trip.Finally, I want to point out that GBC places some optional gear at your disposal. This includes electric motor jacks to leave your truck behind quickly and effortlessly, another battery, and the all-important solar array. For the latter, you'll also need to grab an inverter, but at least you'll receive a Renogy controller with your panels. Anything else, let GBC know, or get creative on your own.Last but not least, let's take a little trip through imagination and place ourselves in the center of a Koda. Picture it on the back of your truck, with those forward moonroofs blending into a fluid and flush fiberglass shell. Knowing what's inside, you hop in your truck and drive off, not having to worry about where you can drive; just beef up your truck's suspension and chassis and make sure you know how to handle the modified dynamics due to the load and higher center of gravity.After arriving at your destination, you unload your Koda and some of the things you packed inside and set up your campsite. Go ahead, cook up a cup of hot chocolate, relax by a fire, watch a sunset, and sleep under the stars. The next day, explore the local lands, be they by foot or truck, and mingle with people only once you've run out of supplies. Not bad for $27K to $36K, not bad at all.
Honda fans, gearheads, and automotive history enthusiasts now have another place to visit  Honda's new museum in Torrance, California. The exhibition has been refined and updated. It will be open regularly to the public during events that begin in October. Here's what you need to know.

Photo: Honda

the first car Honda sold in the US  the air-cooled 1970 N600 Coupe sporting a two-cylinder engine;

the first vehicle that didn't need a catalytic converter to meet stricter emission requirements  the 1975 Honda Civic CVCC Hatchback, where "CVCC" stood for Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion;

a 1979 Honda Accord;

the first high-performance "Si" model sold in the US  the two-seater 1985 Honda CRX Si;

the mighty Acura NSX;

a 1986 Acura Legend;

the marque's first in-house developed SUV  the 1997 Honda CR-V;

the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle sold stateside was the 2006 Honda Insight.

Officially named the "American Honda Collection Hall," this new museum hides over 60 Honda and Acura cars, motorcycles, race machines, engines, concept models, unique images, power equipment, and rarely-seen video presentations. It offers an incursion into the past, while also beautifully displaying what's at the core of the iconic Japanese automaker.The automaker was working at it for quite some time, but didn't tell anyone outside the company what it was really doing. Now, we know that the construction was meant to house some of the marque's most important machines. But it added more than just some cool cars.Everything put into the new space represents over six decades of Honda history, one that expanded internationally with American help. The US was the first country where the brand established a subsidiary. When the decision to reach more people worldwide was taken, the pin was initially put on North America.The museum has its own 20,000 sqft dedicated space and is now connected to the American Honda headquarters. Visitors will be able to enter the facility free of charge when public "Cars, Bikes & Coffee" events are being organized.If you're already planning to go, here are some of the cool vehicles you will see:There are also some cool motorcycles in the new museum. You'll be able to admire, among others, the 1962 Honda Super Cub, the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing, and the 1983 Honda VF750F.Those interested in racing will most likely search for the 1992 Acura Spice GTP and the 1997 Acura Integral Realtime.The first "Cars, Bikes & Coffee" event is scheduled for October 21, from 9 AM until 12 PM. If you can't attend this one, the last such gathering of the year will happen on December 16. The third one is planned for 2024, so make sure you can take a day off next month or in December.The previous American Honda museum was also established in Torrance, California, but this new location trimmed everything and allowed only true special models to shine. That's how those with knowledge about the construction of the new location and the plans to reduce the number of objects shown to the public got their hands on trophies or some damaged goods.If you weren't included in that group chat, now you can at least enjoy a more well-organized venue.Finally, Honda plans to go all-electric by 2040. This new museum could become very important in a decade or so.
Tesla is considered a luxury carmaker, although many people complained about the lackluster build quality. The EV maker apparently wants to prove that it's on the same level as supercar builders with a $2 million Model Y sold from inventory. Believe it or not, this is down from $2.2 million, so you better hurry.

EV

ICE

Tesla's status as a luxury carmaker has been often contested, especially as the build quality doesn't quite impress. Many complained about misaligned body panels, cracked windows, and paint issues, although this speaks more about build quality than luxury features. Tesla EVs have many gadgets as standard, but many established luxury features are still missing. The level of personalization on offer is also abysmal, something that people with deep pockets hate.Performance-wise, Teslas shine among their peers with impressive power figures. This allows performance that costs many times more on other car brands, and many people aren't shy to call this "supercar performance." Nevertheless, Tesla EVs have become more affordable in the past months, as themaker has repeatedly slashed prices to energize sales. They're now quite affordable, and in many cases, they offer the best bang for the money, even when compared tovehicles.Tesla offers significant discounts for vehicles in the inventory, and it's always a good idea to search there first when buying an electric car. But the inventory prices are not always the best, as a curious example we've stumbled upon shows. In an Eastern European country called Romania, Tesla tries to convince people that a Model Y Long Range is a good deal at 1.9 million euros ($2 million). And it should be, considering that the original price was 2 million euros or more than $2.2 million.If you feel a Tesla Model Y deserves all this money because it's such a good car, I'm right with you. Also, if you're a billionaire and money doesn't matter, hit the "Buy Now" button. Still, the simple fact that you can order the same car for 54,220 euros (worth $57,830 at current exchange rates) from the same website shows that a mistake must have been made. Tesla Model Y may be the most sold car in the world, but it's clearly not worth paying $2 million for it.Most likely, this is owed to a currency conversion glitch, proving that salespeople at Tesla Romania are not exactly the brightest on the lot. It's happened before, and it will likely happen again. In January, Tesla listed all its vehicles sold in Romania at absurd prices , with the most affordable model, the Model 3 RWD, costing 228,840 ($242,394). It turned out that Tesla listed the prices in local currency and added the euro symbol.This time, the conversion doesn't add up because a Tesla Model Y LR only costs 270,000 RON in local currency. This is far from $2 million, and it's unlikely somebody would jump the gun and hand over the cash briefcase to Tesla. Especially as the Model Y listed doesn't feature any extras.
Not designed to everyone's liking, the Ioniq 6 is Hyundai's most aerodynamic production car. It flaunts a 0.21 drag coefficient, putting it between the 0.20 Tesla Model S and 0.22 Porsche Taycan.

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

LATCH

AWD

EV

As expected of the Ioniq 5's low-slung brother, the all-electric sedan also happens to be a safe car. It cleared the's crashworthiness tests with flying colors, and the nonprofit organization was also impressed by the Ioniq 6 in terms of vehicle-to-pedestrian front crash prevention during the daytime and nighttime.A recipient of the highly coveted Top Safety Pick+ award, the zero-emission vehicle scored acceptable ratings for headlight performance andanchors ease of use. Regarding the headlights, the LED projector-type low beams offer inadequate visibility on gradual left curves. The high beams were deemed to offer inadequate visibility on the left side on straightaways and on sharp left curves.The Ioniq 6 joins the Top Safety Pick+ club together with the Genesis Electrified GV70 and Lexus RZ 450e, two premium electric sport utility vehicles. In regard to safety, the only downside to the US-built Electrified GV70 is the front crash prevention system. It scored advanced rather than superior.As for the RZ 450e, the IIHS found that its LED projector-style low beams and high beams could be better in terms of visibility on the left side of straightaways and curves. Priced at $59,650 (sans destination charge), the RZ 450e is twinned with the bZ4X from Toyota and Solterra from Subaru.Both of them were recalled over loose wheel hub bolts , and all three siblings leave much to be desired as electric vehicles. The biggest problems of the bZ4X,-only Solterra, and RZ 450e are driving range and pricing. Simply put, Toyota still has plenty to learn from the competition in themarket.Manufactured with pride in Alabama , the Electrified GV70 doesn't use a dedicated EV platform like the Ioniq 6 and Ioniq 5. It uses the Hyundai-Kia M3 platform for rear-biased applications. By using an architecture designed primarily for internal combustion vehicles, the Electrified GV70 scores poorly in terms of driving range as well. The EPA estimate is 236 miles (380 kilometers), whereas the RZ 450e musters only 220 miles (354 kilometers).As mentioned earlier, the design of the Ioniq 6 may polarize opinion. What's undeniable about Hyundai's all-electric sedan is that you can expect way more driving range compared to the RZ 450e and Electrified GV70. The most you can expect on a full charge of the high-voltage battery is 361 miles (581 kilometers), which is better than the Tesla Model 3 (333 miles or 536 kilometers; the EPA has yet to publish the numbers for the Model 3 Highland).You can get an Ioniq 6 for as little as $41,600 (excluding destination freight charge), yet the entry-level SE Standard Range is rated at 240 miles (386 kilometers). The rear-drive SE with the larger battery pack is the range champion, carrying a sticker price of $45,500 at press time.
A South Korean F-35A radar-evading fighter takes off from an airbase in Cheongju, 112 kilometers south of Seoul, to take part in combined air drills with the United States on Feb. 3. Courtesy of Air Force



The U.S. Department of State has approved a possible sale to South Korea of up to 25 F-35A radar-evading fighters and related equipment to help the East Asian ally maintain a "credible" defense capability, a government agency said Wednesday.



The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) under the Department of Defense made the announcement on the potential government-to-government Foreign Military Sale estimated to cost $5.06 billion.



"The proposed sale will improve the Republic of Korea's capability to meet current and future threats by providing credible defense capability to deter aggression in the region and ensure interoperability with U.S. forces," DSCA said in a release, referring to South Korea by its official name.



The South Korean government has requested the purchase of up to 25 F-35A fighters, along with 26 engines, electronic warfare reprogramming lab support and other pieces of related equipment, according to the release.



The DSCA delivered the required certification notifying Congress of the possible sale earlier in the day, it said, as the sale requires congressional endorsement.



In March, South Korea's Defense Project Promotion Committee approved a 3.75 trillion-won ($2.82 billion) plan to buy the F-35A aircraft through 2028. The South Korean Air Force currently maintains 40 F-35As manufactured by U.S. defense giant Lockheed Martin.



South Korea has been pushing to bring in a new batch of F-35As to prop up the country's Kill Chain preemptive strike system, a pillar of its three-pronged deterrence program against the North's nuclear and missile threats. (Yonhap)




MQB

kW

Caught by our spy photographers in the open wearing the final production body and lighting units at both ends, the 2025 Audi Q3 looks more modern. It has a split headlamp signature, with the lower units being the actual clusters, a slightly smaller grille, and a more sizeable central air intake.Although the roofline appears to be a bit more arched towards the rear, the profile looks about the same. It has a new bumper at the rear with a cleaner shape, a different tailgate that kind of mirrors the styling of the current car, and new taillights, probably with a Y-shaped design that may or may not be linked together by a full-width light strip.Audi is expected to do more important things to the interior, though for the time being, it remains under wraps. If you look closely at the left front fender, you will see a charging port. This tells us the prototype features a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Besides the partially electrified assembly, the all-new Audi Q3 is also expected to have normal internal combustion units.Nonetheless, we cannot know for sure which engines it will get, but its construction, aka the Volkswagen Group'sEvo, supports multiple powertrains, including gasoline, diesel, and mild hybrids. Its more mainstream sibling, the VW Tiguan, will get all of them, whereas the Cupra Terramar , which features the same construction, features electrified power solely.Likely sporting a larger overall footprint compared to its predecessor, the next-gen Q3 is expected to have an identical wheelbase. It measures 2,680 mm (105.5 in) in length on the current iteration, which makes it slightly shorter than the current Mercedes GLA and BMW X1, which are two of its biggest rivals in the premium subcompact crossover segment. Other models that it targets are the Volvo XC40 and Alfa Romeo Tonale.Audi will announce some juicy details about the third-gen Q3 when the time comes, and that includes the official unveiling date. For now, it is believed it will debut sometime in 2024, and we think it might be in the second part of the year. It will still come to life at the Gyor factory in Hungary, and it could be made in China, too, for the local market.It will probably be a 2025 model when it arrives in the United States, and it should slightly bump the price. The 2024 Q3 is offered with the 184 hp (187 ps/137) 2.0L 40 TFSI and 228 hp (231 ps/170 kW) 2.0L 45 TFSI powertrains and starts at $37,000 before destination.
Moving away from fossil fuel-powered cars is sparking innovation in the automotive industry and enables new businesses to arise. Just like Rivian, Fisker, or Lucid, California-based Mullen wants to put Americans (and possibly Canadians) behind the steering wheel of a battery-electric vehicle. If it figures out production, the young brand could succeed. The FIVE is a crossover SUV that boasts a familiar design  it looks eerily similar to the new Model 3 from the front, while the BMW-inspired cabin adds a scent of known premium quality.

SUV

Photo: Tesla

So, what does Mullen Automotive want?

EV

a rebadged BMW M steering wheel with carbon fiber inserts and buttons for the advanced driver-assistance system;

BMW stalks;

the BMW sport pedals (including the dead pedal) with rubber-insulated PPE inserts;

a fusion between BMW's iDrive 8 screens and the old iDrive 7 housing.

Photo: David Michery on Twitter (X)

Moderately elegant but practical and promising

kWh

Photo: David Michery on Twitter (X)

Rivian proved itself by introducing two magnificent EVs  the highly capable and well-designed quad-motor R1T and R1S.Lucid debuted marvelous engineering solutions that took the all-electric powertrain to the next level of performance and focused on creating a posh cabin. It sells sedans that are even one-upping brands like Mercedes-Benz. Fisker is just starting to make itself noticed after pulling itself up by its bootstraps and repurposing its entire brand philosophy. The Ocean is a fine all-electric crossoverwith a couple of gimmicks like the solar roof, the California mode that opens all the windows (including the rear windshield), and the tilting infotainment screen.These brands succeeded because Tesla took it upon itself to revolutionize what once was a very conservative business sector. It pushed forward against all odds, and, even though it did a couple of questionable things along the way, it succeeded.If you like to measure performance by what investors think, then Tesla really is an international behemoth  the Texas-based marque is the world's most valuable automaker.Around two years ago, we were telling you about the Mullen FIVE EV Crossover that popped out of nowhere with a striking, almost McLaren-like front fascia, a svelte body, a sloping rear roofline, a visibly great ground clearance, large wheels, and a rear-end that provided the vehicle with an elegant and minimalistic finish.During these two years that have passed, nothing has changed performance-wise. Themaker still promises 325 miles of range on a single charge, a 155 mph top speed, and a zero to 60 mph time of 3.2 seconds.But one dramatic update happened  the interior is now boasting some BMW-sourced parts. Mullen CEO David Michery published a couple of photos on his own Twitter (X) account. The images show:In our book, this is a great idea. Mullen will give buyers a sense of familiar premium materials and shapes. If the skin installed on top of iDrive 8 won't affect the system's performance, it could also provide a great infotainment experience because BMW is known for making great automotive software.The shot revealing the new interior is a clear departure from what we have previously seen on the FIVE EV concept. This prototype might hint that the brand is getting closer to actually putting this vehicle into production.One weird thing we noticed is the giant shifter that doesn't seem to have any other functionality. It's just There!On the outside, Mullen chose a striking look for the FIVE EV that instantly reminds us of the redesigned Model 3 . Slim headlights that seem to have matrix functionality, a sculpted front fascia with three air intakes, and a hood featuring muscular lines contour an EV that means business.The side profile reveals an aerodynamic look, Land Rover-like door handles that hide when the car's moving or sitting still, two-tone paint that enhances the vehicle's sporty aesthetic, and a hatchback-like trunk that indicates hauling stuff around won't be a problem.The price is expected to start from around $55,000. The vehicle includes a 95-battery pack and offers 71 cu-ft of cargo room. Mullen also promises fast-charging capabilities.Sadly, that's all we know about this intriguing zero-tailpipe emission crossover. The aspiring EV maker is dealing with some stock-related issues. Having lost over 99.5% of its value since September 2022, the brand started litigation with some entities that deal with trading.However, Mullen's authorized US dealership Randy Marion said the official EPA range numbers would come soon. That should bring some much-awaited good news.If the aspiring EV maker wants more pre-orders and to excite people who are ready to leave behind their fossil fuel-powered habits, it must share more details about the size, powertrain, battery chemistry, trims, and service centers. There are already many EV offers on the market from legacy auto brands or new carmakers that have proven themselves and showed they have a firm grip on dealing with everything that comes with selling cars.It must also make a choice - NACS or CCS Combo 1? Most automakers present in North America have already sided with Tesla and are getting Supercharger access from next year or 2025. The inlet choice matters because it can bring more prospective customers into the Mullen universe or alienate them.However, what will happen next is anyone's guess. But we hope Mullen Automotive will figure it out and bring forward a worthy competitor for the Tesla Model Y, Fisker Ocean, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Mercedes-Benz EQB, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Audi Q4 e-tron, VW ID.4, Nissan Aryia, Chevrolet Bolt EUV, and Volvo XC40 Recharge.Finally, Mullen Automotive also makes all-electric vans and other types of commercial vehicles. But this crossover SUV is what will put it on the map, as long as it finds a way to start the manufacturing process.
Somebody call Special FBI Agent Fox Mulder because not only do we have irrefutable proof that aliens exist, but there's also evidence of a broad, international conspiracy to keep them a secret. Now's the best "I told you so" moment if you "believe."

Photo: YouTube/Maussan TV

Photo: YouTube/Maussan TV

Photo: YouTube/Maussan TV

Photo: YouTube/Maussan TV

????????

Closer look into the Alien Bodies that the Mexican Government has unveiled to the public and the tests that has been carried out on them.#Aliens #Mexico pic.twitter.com/4NFBByzjDJ  Captain Bacteria (@CaptainBacteria) September 13, 2023

September 12, 2023, will go down in history as the day the Mexican government was presented with irrefutable proof of alien life. Either that or it'll go down as the day when the Mexican Congress was the place of the biggest, most shameless TV stunt in the history of TV stunting.It's arrogant of us to assume that we're all alone in this vast universe or that we haven't been contacted or visited by aliens yet. That's also the argument ufologist and journalist Jaime Maussan used ahead of the presentation he put together for the Congress live hearing, whose goal was to prove beyond a doubt that aliens have walked among us for centuries.He did so by bringing forth a pair of tiny bodies that he claimed were of 1,000-year-old aliens, recovered from the mines along the Nazca Lines in Peru, both of them recovered in 2017. While the U.S. government is still struggling to understand  and explain  the wave of UAPs (unidentified aerial phenomena) reported by the military, here is Mexico bringing a pair of tiny aliens into the spotlight.Jokes aside, Maussan swore under oath that the bodies were real, intact, and had not been tampered with. In fact, they were still covered in dust and partly encased in rock as they were when discovered, with Maussan explaining that they most likely died and were buried in the area some 1,000 years ago. They weren't alien pilots but lived among humans, Maussan said. They were about to become parents, too: one of them was pregnant. Subsequent X-rays showed eggs inside the body.According to the ufologist and his team, samples from the bodies had been analyzed by the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and scientists from other organizations, confirming that the DNA was non-human.Further studies also revealed that the bodies were intact, down to the internal organs and the eggs. The tiny aliens presented a large and elongated head, with a small and frail body and three digits on each member. The resemblance with ET is uncanny, and we guarantee you're not the only one to think that.Jose de Jesus Zalce Benitez, director of the Scientific Institute for Health of the Mexican Navy, told Congress that the aliens had no teeth, so nutrition didn't involve any chewing of solids. They also had retractable necks, oversized brains, and large eyes capable of "wide stereoscopic vision."The manner in which these studies were conducted without even removing the dust on top of the bodies was not disclosed."We are not alone in the vast universe, we need to accept this reality," Maussan argued in front of the Congress during the public session. His team claimed that even though the public wasn't aware of it, at least 20 bodies of similar appearance had been discovered "informally" over the years.Also present for the hearing were other journalists, researchers, and Avi Loeb, professor of astrophysics at Harvard University. Former US pilot Ryan Graves also spoke on the topic of UAPs, and his appearance came less than two months after he testified before the U.S. Congress on the same topic.For the record, UAPs are the "new" UFOs but aren't necessarily connected to the existence of alien life, let alone double as evidence in this sense. U.S. pilots have been reporting strange sightings and encounters for years, but it's just recently that the public was made aware of them.Graves' presence at the hearing was meant to further his efforts to highlight aerospace safety and national security, just like his July testimony did.Before you bring out the white flags and your Sunday alien-welcoming clothes, and we call off all initiatives for space exploration, we should mention that Maussan has a dubious reputation even in his home country. He's made similar claims in the past, most notably in 2015, when he claimed a small mummified body was alien, only to have the story debunked by DNA analysis: the alien was a child. He's also been associated with Gaia, a subscription-based website often accused of making alien stories up.Shortly after the Congress hearing, Graves took to social media to distance himself from what had happened. He said he'd agreed to talk about UAPs based on his own experience but was surprised and disappointed by "this deeply unsubstantiated stunt."So there you have it: the latest public hearing before the Mexican Congress, which was a live event, included a presentation of alien life and the surprise of a pair of tiny alien bodies. This could be whatever proof was still needed that we're not alone in this universe and validation for those who reported UFO sightings and were ridiculed for it. Or it could be just another TV stunt of the kind we've seen before.You decide which it is.
The treaty has been the main focus of Armenian-Azerbaijani negotiations held over the past year, with the two sides reporting major progress this spring during the process mediated by the United States and the European Union.

Unfortunately, I have to say that the parties positions on key issues are still quite far from each other, Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan told the Armenian parliament on Wednesday. He did not go into details.

Two lawmakers representing the ruling Civil Contract party shed light on the lingering disagreements during a news conference on Thursday. One of them, Artur Hovannisian, complained that Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev remains reluctant to recognize Armenias existing borders.

The treaty must have clear mechanisms, guarantees that will ensure Armenias sovereignty and territorial integrity, said. So far efforts to reach common ground on that have not been successful.

When a person dies people say rest in peace. The peace that Aliyev offers us means resting in peace, added Hovannisian.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian announced, meanwhile, that the Armenian government has received new comments from Baku regarding the lingering sticking points. Yerevan will respond to them within a reasonable period of time, he said during a cabinet meeting,

Pashinian complained in early August that Baku is seeking to sign the kind of peace deal that would not preclude Azerbaijani territorial claims to Armenia. He had earlier pledged to recognize Azerbaijans territorial integrity and, in particular, Azerbaijani sovereignty over Karabakh. His domestic critics condemned the far-reaching concession, saying that even it will not safeguard Armenian territory from future Azerbaijani attacks.

Artur Khachatrian, an opposition lawmaker, insisted on Thursday that the agreement discussed by Yerevan and Baku would not bring a lasting peace to the region.

The Armenian diplomacy must avoid signing any document because it could be  a death certificate for our statehood, Khachatrian told reporters.

Tensions along the Armenian-Azerbaijani border and the Karabakh line of contact have risen again this month, with Yerevan saying that Baku has been massing troops there in possible preparation for another military aggression. Pashinian said on Thursday that the Azerbaijani military buildup is continuing.
They indicated at the weekend that they agreed to let a Russian Red Cross truck enter Karabakh from the Azerbaijani town of Aghdam in return for Bakus pledge to unblock the corridor. The truck delivered 15 tons of food and other essential items on Tuesday. The Lachin road connecting Karabakh to Armenia remains blocked by an Azerbaijani checkpoint set up there in April.

The agreement was as follows: the Russian side will send its humanitarian shipment to Karabakh and in return for that Azerbaijan will open the Lachin corridor, a Karabakh official, Davit Babayan, told RFE/RLs Armenia Service. But as we can see, Azerbaijan has once again failed to honor its commitments.

A senior aide to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on Wednesday blamed Stepanakert for the continuing blockade. He said that it is obstructing the simultaneous opening of the two roads agreed by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov in a September 1 phone call.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said on Thursday that the international community keeps pressing for the lifting of the Azerbaijani blockade that began last December and was tightened in June.

All possible diplomatic efforts are being made to ensure the entry of humanitarian cargo into Nagorno-Karabakh and further supplies, he said. It is important to emphasize that representatives of Nagorno-Karabakh are fully involved in these negotiations and discussions.

Babayan confirmed that involvement. He noted, though, that there are no direct contacts between Baku and Stepanakert.

Meanwhile, food shortages in Karabakh continued to worsen one week after the authorities started rationing bread in Stepanakert. Residents of the Karabakh capital received ration stamps entitling them to only half a loaf of bread a day per person.

One of them, Arevik Melkumian, told RFE/RLs Armenian Service that she was unable to buy any bread on Wednesday and Thursday. The mother of four also complained about the skyrocketing prices of locally grown vegetables which farmers have trouble delivering to Stepanakert due to a severe lack of fuel.

The situation is terrible, said Melkumian. Tomatoes cost 3,000 drams (about $8) per kilogram while cucumbers 4,000 drams per kilo. How can we buy them?
14 September 2023 10:10 (UTC+04:00)

From 21:35 on September 13 to 00:45 on September 14, the Armenian armed forces units from the positions in the directions of Yukhari Zaghali settlement of the Basarkechar district and Mosesgekh settlement of the Tovuzgala district using small arms periodically subjected to fire the Azerbaijan Army positions stationed in the directions of the Mollabayramli settlement of the Kalbajar district and Aghdam settlement of the Tovuz region, Azernews reports, citing the Defense Ministry.

In addition, on September 14 at about 00:05, illegal Armenian armed detachments in the territory of Azerbaijan, where the Russian peacekeeping forces are temporarily stationed, were subjected to fire at the Azerbaijan Army positions in the Kalbajar direction.

The Azerbaijan Army Units took retaliatory measures in the mentioned directions.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 16:24 (UTC+04:00)

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's interview with POLITICO Europe publication and other statements he made in recent days once again show that he expresses contradictory opinions several times a day, does not pursue a coherent policy, does not give up his territorial claims against Azerbaijan, and is simply trying to disguise it under a different name, and confirms his interest in deliberately inflating the situation in the region, the Western Azerbaijan Community said in a statement, Azernews reports, citing Community.

The statement says: Nikol Pashinyan's views show that Armenia calls into question recognition of Azerbaijan's territorial integrity even in word. Armenia is still dreaming of creating a certain international mechanism. Azerbaijan's policy regarding the Armenian residents living in the Garabagh region, the dialogue with them, is a purely internal matter for Azerbaijan and these issues have nothing to do with Armenia. Armenia should stop interfering in the internal affairs of Azerbaijan. This is a frivolous and dangerous policy.

The prime minister's opinion that Armenia has recognized the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan because our allies remained silent shows Armenias real intentions and hypocrisy. It appears that if Armenia had received support from the outside, then it would not have recognized the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. And this is being said by a state which itself highlights the issue of its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and red lines, sheds crocodile tears, and conducts an ugly campaign of slander against the sovereignty of Azerbaijan at the international level.

It seems that Nikol Pashinyan is still under the influence of the racist, Azerbaijano-phobic ideology that has evolved in Armenia for 30 years. One of the main pillars of that ideology was the idea that the Garabagh issue is over because the Armenian people have resolved the Garabagh issue on the battlefield. The Azerbaijani people, however, demonstrated how the Armenian people had resolved the Garabagh issue on the battlefield during the Patriotic War in 2020.

Nikol Pashinyan, who did not accept the dialogue proposal of the Western Azerbaijan Community and denied the right of the Azerbaijanis to return, probably thinks that he has resolved the issue of Western Azerbaijanis. This is a wrong approach. Western Azerbaijanis are determined to return to their ancestral lands in a peaceful way and no one can prevent this from happening.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 08:30 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

On September 9, the separatist regime created by Armenia in Azerbaijans Garabagh held so-called "presidential elections." Countries throughout the world, including Bulgaria, Georgia, Ukraine, Hungary and manyothers, condemned it and expressed their concerns. However, Azerbaijan has heard such statements for over 30 years and would like to see the real measures taken in this regard, such as imposing sanctions and pressure on Armenia.

In a comment for AZERNEWS on the issue, Member of Parliament Fazil Mustafa said that the statements of countries throughout the world over the so-called elections in Garabagh do not seem to be much effective, as for some reason they avoid to directly convict Armenia, which is in fact, the main supporter of the separatist regime in the territories of Azerbaijan. He underlined that they make such statements according to the requirement of international law.

It looks like these states have no intention to push Armenia on some discussion because they do not try to connect separatism in Garabagh with Armenia. From this point of view, we see attempts to protect Armenia as if it has a special privilege, despite the fact that we have revealed serious and revealing facts in this matter. In this regard, we should focus our main goal on the illegal activities of the Armenians in Garabagh and try to direct international public support towards us in order to prevent steps that would violate international law, the MP noted.

As for sanctions on Armenia, the expert said that he does not expect that any country will impose sanctions on Armenia on this issue and added that sanctions are not the only means to force Armenia toward peace. Also, he noted the importance of working on it more strictly and keeping it always on the political agenda.

Frankly, no sanctions are expected for Armenia in this matter. However, all pressures, including sanctions, may be important. Besides, they can support Azerbaijans demands by sending a fact-finding mission to force Armenia to take an active role in the peace-building process and at the same time paying compensation for the property of the Azerbaijani population that they have destroyed. But we have not observed these yet as Armenia has different intention.

However, we must continue our insistence in this direction and go over the issues related to the activities of this terrorist state against the law that supports separatism in Garabagh. Because in many cases it is tried to be forgotten and lived down unless it is repeated many times. And we should not allow it, the MP added.

Further, F.Mustafa pointed out that European countries follow a policy of supporting separatism, more precisely many European countries did not pass the test in the Garabagh issue. Sometimes even we witness that a country like Spain makes certain decisions supporting separatism against Azerbaijan.

I am certain that this is an issue that can be faced by every state like a boomerang. That is why such a precedent cannot be allowed to emerge. The spoiling of Armenians in Garabagh and their transformation into such a privileged nation creates fertile conditions for the growth of such privileged nations in Europe in the future. In this regard, we want them to take some steps in the direction of not being an obstacle to Azerbaijan and protecting the principles of international law, rather than exerting some kind of pressure, Fazil Mustafa concluded.

---

Qabil Ashirov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @g_Ashirov

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 21:45 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

Releasing posts on his X account, the Hungarian historian and politician, who currently serves as Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Relations Zoltan Kovacs shed light on the working visit of the Azerbaijani Economy Minister Mikayil Jabbar that took place on September 11, 2023. It is worth noting that within the framework of the visit, Mikayil Jabbarov held meetings with state officials including the PM of Hungary Viktor Orban, and Hungarian FM Peter Szijjarto. Despite natural gas and gas supplies being the main topics of the meetings, discussions over the expansion of activities of Hungarian companies in Azerbaijan and the involvement of Hungarian companies in the reconstruction and restoration works in Azerbaijan's liberated territories caused interest.

In his post, Zoltan Kovacs noted that at the meeting between the Azerbaijani Economy Minister and the PM of Hungary Viktor Orban [the sides] also discussed successful Hungarian company expansions in Azerbaijan and potential future Hungarian investments. In relation to the reconstruction of Garabagh, an Azerbaijani town has been designated for potential reconstruction by Hungarian companies.

In his next post over the meeting between Mikayil Jabbarov and Peter Szijjarto, he gave more detailed information. Hungary will participate in the reconstruction of the Garabagh region starting next year, with a consortium of major Hungarian construction companies involved in rebuilding Soltanli. The Azerbaijani government has approved the plans, and some contracts have already been signed, Zoltan Kovacs wrote.

Relating to the issue, Azernews asked the opinion of Economist Eldaniz Amirov. The expert noted that Hungary has invested nearly $400m in Azerbaijan. This investment covers various fields from the non-oil sector to the oil sector. He added that one of the sectors which draws the attention of Hungarian companies in Azerbaijan is agriculture. As is known, agriculture is one of the main priority areas in the non-oil sector in Azerbaijan. This area requires a lot of investment and has a lot of potential.

As for works in Garabagh, it should be noted that all reconstruction and restoration works in the liberated territories are carried out at Azerbaijans own expense. Of course, there are exceptions. For example, the bp company is building a 240-megawatt Shafaq Solar Power Plant in the Jabrayil district. The Azerbaijani Government and the company has reached an agreement but, concrete investment has not yet been made here. It is being worked on. In addition, the Uzbek government built a school in the Fuzuli district. In other cases, the companies located in the liberated territories participate as contractors in large-scale projects implemented by the government of Azerbaijan. However, the activity of these companies here, including the participation of Hungarian companies in the reconstruction of the Soltanli village, deserves appreciation. Because the more companies from different countries operate in the liberated territories, the more experience and know-how they can share with Azerbaijan, and the more strategic partners we can get, E. Amirov noted.

He emphasized that various perspectives of cooperation are discussed in the international meetings held at a high level. He added that progress is being made in many aspects, from the possibilities of Hungarian investment in the financial sector to the oil sector, including activities in the free economic zone.

---

Qabil Ashirov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @g_Ashirov

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 18:00 (UTC+04:00)

Elnur Enveroglu Read more

Azerbaijan is a state with an important economic and strategic position not only in Europe, but also among Asian countries. However, this importance is more distinguished by its historical and national connections.

Having visited Tajikistan at the special invitation of Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon, today, President Ilham Aliyev attended the 5th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia as the guest of honour in the capital Dushanbe. The head of state also emphasized these points while speaking at the meeting.

"Azerbaijan and the countries of Central Asia are bound by the centuries-long brotherhood ties of our peoples. Shared cultural roots are the solid foundation of interstate relations.

The head of state added that in the last three decades, Azerbaijan, together with the Central Asian states, has always shown solidarity and supported each other in the economic, political and cultural fields.

"For over 30 years, as independent states, we actively engage both in bilateral and multilateral formats. We support each other's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and actively develop economic ties."

The head of state also added: "With growing economy, demographics and geopolitical potential, Central Asia and Azerbaijan is a single historical and cultural geographic region of strategic significance in world politics," President Ilham Aliyev emphasized.

Azerbaijan is the gateway of Central Asia to Europe

This emphasis of President Ilham Aliyev also indicates the future perspective of a large strategic project that will span between east and west. As well as being a reliable and sustainable partner for the West, Azerbaijan is also the closest and most important strategic partner country for Central Asia, especially in terms of its transport routes.

At the 5th Consultative Meeting, the President emphasized this and noted that Azerbaijan is also the gateway of Central Asia to Turkiye and Europe.

"For the Central Asian countries, Azerbaijan is a reliable transit country along the route to the markets of Turkiye and Europe," the President said.

But all this is not limited to only with the importance of Azerbaijan as a transport corridor. As Azerbaijan is also a littoral state among several Central Asian states, its logistical capabilities are great. In this regard, Central Asian companies are evaluating the opportunities in Azerbaijan. President Ilham Aliyev noted in his speech that Azerbaijan is always open to Central Asia to benefit from these opportunities.

Not of the least significance is the transit in the opposite direction. Our brothers in Central Asia know that Azerbaijans entire transportation and logistics infrastructure is available to them, the head of state added.

Central Asian companies eyeing Alat Free Economic Zone

With favourable conditions created in the 850-hectare area, Alat Free Economic Zone with its strategic geographic position near the Baku International Sea Trade Port and on global transport corridors, including the East-West and North-South International Transport Corridors has potential of establishing a more sustainable, export-oriented and competitive national economy.

In his speech at the 5th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, President Ilham Aliyev also touched on the importance of the Alat Free Economic Zone which is going to be at service of investors.

These interests already exist, and as President Ilham Aliyev emphasized, it is important to mutually evaluate this possibility.

The growth of mutual trade and investments is one of the key factors of the bilateral cooperation. It is gratifying that the figures in both of those directions indicate consistent growth. Last year the trade turnover of Azerbaijan with the Central Asian countries increased more than 3 times. During 7 months of this year  for another 50%. Joint investment funds have been established, and with over $1 billion of investments for the coming 3 years have been agreed. We are already implementing many projects in the sphere of industrial cooperation, machine-building, automobile industry, shipbuilding and agriculture, namely cotton production, sericulture, horticulture and livestock farming. Investment projects in hotel business and tourism are at the initial stage of implementation. We see the interest of Central Asian companies in the Alat Free Economic Zone established recently in Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijani President underlined.

President Ilham Aliyev also spoke about the strategic importance of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway extending to the West. The head of state noted that the 826 km long railway is currently being further modernized by the state of Azerbaijan.

We are modernizing the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway to meet the rising demand for cargo transportation through the East-West route. The cargo volume via that road will be increased from 1 to 5 million tons. In parallel to that, the capacity of the Baku Trade Port is also being expanded from current 15 to 25 million tons, the head of state noted, the President added.

In addition, the head of state also spoke about the expansion of cargo capacity in the Caspian Sea. The President noted that Azerbaijan has the largest trade fleet in the Caspian Sea with over 50 vessels, adding that this will be increased due to growing needs.

Given the growing demand of the shippers from Central Asia, we are actively working on expanding the capabilities of our shipyard. Upon the completion of investment projects, the number of manufactured tankers and dry cargo vessels will be increased from current 6 to 10-15 vessels annually, the President said.

Thus, the results of the meeting once again show that Azerbaijan is one of the most important and strategic centers for both Europe and Central Asia. This is possible not only due to the geostrategic importance of the country, but also thanks to the continuous economic reforms of President Ilham Aliyev. In the near future, Azerbaijan is preparing to play the role of connecting the east and the west as the most leading segment of a big project - the Middle Corridor. Undoubtedly, the existing obstacles on this path will lose their importance in the face of its growing influence.

---

Elnur Enveroglu is AzerNews deputy editor-in-chief, follow him on @ElnurMammadli1

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
Wondrous Xinjiang: Pakistani trader brings top-notch Chinese products to hometown

Xinhua) 10:26, September 14, 2023

URUMQI, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- If you speak to the customs and foreign trade department in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, northwest China, you will surely hear the name "Old Sai. " This is the affectionate nickname given to Saifullah Baig, a Pakistani trader who has acquainted himself with nearly every staff member there.

"I have been engaged in business activities between Taxkorgan and my hometown since 1990," said Saifullah, 65, from Hunza, Pakistan, in fluent Chinese.

Old Sai earned his first gold nugget transporting silk from Kashgar to Islamabad. With the seed money, he has opened up a store in Taxkorgan, selling Kashgar products to Pakistani traders.

Situated on the Pamir Plateau, Taxkorgan is home to the renowned Khunjerab Pass, which lies on the China-Pakistan border. Border trade is one of the county's pillar industries.

Throughout his career, Saifullah has purchased numerous carpets, leather jackets, electric ovens, and other made-in-China commodities. He then sells these products to other Pakistani traders, and they are transported through the land port of Khunjerab before reaching families in Pakistan.

Over the decades, Saifullah has become a proud businessman with strong connections and several purchasing channels.

"I have Chinese business partners in Korla, Hotan, Aksu, Urumqi and other Xinjiang cities," said Saifullah. "I plan to expand my business to Horgos this year. I heard the border trade in the land port city is doing well."

Diao Guifa, a young director of Taxkorgan's border trade service center, has known Old Sai for six months. After the COVID-19 restrictions were eased and the China-Pakistan border trade resumed in the county in June, Saifullah brokered the first order -- a batch of carpets and handicrafts worth 30,000 yuan (4,112 U. S. dollars). "Old Sai knows China well, and has many Pakistani business friends. He's been helpful in Taxkorgan's border trade," said Diao.

"I have witnessed the development of Taxkorgan," said Saifullah, calling himself "an old Taxkorganer." "In the past there were only horse carts in the county. Now cars are everywhere."

To describe the pace of China's development, he made a gesture of a plane taking off. He happily took out a photo of his three-story house in Islamabad, bought with the profits he has made from his cross-border business.

These great changes have also been felt in the way he travels. Saifullah's father and other Pakistani traders before him had to ride on horseback to trek on the ancient Silk Road over the Karakoram Mountains for two weeks, only to bring back dozens of kilograms of goods. Today, it takes only six hours by bus to travel from Hunza to Taxkorgan.

Saifullah plans to pass on the family tradition of doing border business to his younger son Karim Ullah Baig. The 29-year-old man is no stranger to the small border county. When he was studying in the Changzhou Vocational Institute of Mechatronic Technology in Jiangsu Province, east China, Karim regularly set out from his home of Hunza and travelled through the Khunjerab Pass in Taxkorgan. From there, he would transfer to Kashgar to take a flight to Shanghai before reaching Changzhou.

"I'm getting old, so I'm counting on him," said Old Sai. "I can only speak Chinese, but Karim can write Chinese, too. He also has more innovative ideas."

Old Sai wants to teach Karim all he knows about doing business on the China-Pakistan border as he is confident of the prospect of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, an important pioneering project of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative.

"We are neighbors," Old Sai loves to say. "The friendship between the two countries has lasted for more than 1,000 years, right?"

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
U.S. Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs Bonnie Jenkins delivers a message on behalf of U.S. President Joe Biden during a high-level meeting of the Proliferation Security Initiative in Jeju, May 30. Yonhap



U.S. Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Bonnie Jenkins will visit South Korea this week to attend the allies' dialogue on U.S. extended deterrence, the state department said Wednesday.



Jenkins will travel to Seoul on Thursday and Friday for the fourth Extended Deterrence Strategy and Consultation Group (EDSCG) meeting, according to the state department.



The U.S. defense department earlier announced that Acting Under Secretary for Policy Sasha Baker will visit Seoul for the EDSCG meeting as part of a trip that will also take her to Hawaii and Singapore.



"While in Seoul, Under Secretary Jenkins will co-chair the EDSCG meeting  the first to be held in Seoul  with acting U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Sasha Baker," the state department said in a press release.






14 September 2023 13:10 (UTC+04:00)

An Azerbaijani delegation led by the Head of the Antimonopoly and Consumer Market Control State Service under the Economy Ministry Mammad Abbasbeyli visited Korea, Azernews reports.

As part of the trip, the delegation participated in the First Association of Southeast Asian Nations - Commonwealth of Independent States - Korea Fair Trade Commission Leaders Summit ("ASEAN-CIS-KFTC" Enforcers Summit) and the 12th Seoul International Competition Forum.

During the event, attended by about 50 representatives from different countries, the head of the State Service made a presentation about the activities of the organization, especially the measures implemented in the field of institutional reform, quality infrastructure, and consumer protection to improve the legislative framework in the field of competition and public procurement in the country.

The delegation also met with representatives from the Korean business community and discussed the importance of creating a competitive environment for businesses. They also discussed ways to promote consumer protection and increase transparency in public procurement.

The visit was an important step in strengthening the relationship between Azerbaijan and Korea. It is hoped that the two countries will continue to work together to promote fair competition and consumer protection.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 14:21 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

Today marks the start of the 14th Meeting of the Working Group on Economic Cooperation of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) in Istanbul. The Ministers in Charge of Economy and Trade of the OTS, deputy ministers, and other officials, as well as experts from Turkic states, are gathering to discuss the issues on the agenda of the meeting. Deputy Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan Elnur Aliyev is also in attendance. Following the discussions, a statement will be signed, Azernews reports.

The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) is an intergovernmental organization composed of some Caucasus, South, West, and Central Asian countries. It was founded as the Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD) in 1964 by the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and the Republic of Turkiye, and was rechristened as the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in 1985. The organization has a shared commitment to a prosperous and secure North America and has held a High-Level Economic Dialogue in September to expand bilateral economic cooperation and collaboration.

The 14th Meeting of the Working Group on Economic Cooperation of the Organization of Turkic States is an important step towards achieving the organization's goal of creating amenable and conducive conditions for the continued promotion of sustainable economic development in the region, aiming at joint welfare and well-being of the Member States.

Founded as the Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD) in 1964 by the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and the Republic of Turkiye, the Forum was rechristened as the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in 1985.

The ECO Region shelters more than 460 million inhabitants and expands over 8 million square kilometers of land, connecting the north to south, south, and east to the west, Asia to Europe, and Eurasia to the Arab World. Composed of some Caucasus, South, West, and Central Asian countries, ECO is one of the oldest intergovernmental organizations.

The founding and fundamental goal of the Organization is to create amenable and conducive conditions for the continued promotion of sustainable economic development in the region, aiming at joint welfare and well-being of the Member States.

The ECO stretched the fabric of its cooperative partnership in the early 1990s, welcoming the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as five Central Asian nations, including the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Republic of Uzbekistan, as its members.

During the 13th Summit in Islamabad in March 2017, the ECO Heads of State/Government endorsed and adopted the ECO Vision  2025. It is a roadmap document meant to guide the sectoral activities of the Organization in the years to come until 2025.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 20:40 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

More than 70% of Azerbaijan's demand for 100 thousand tonnes of grain seeds is covered by local production, Niyazi Amirbayov, chairman of the board of the Association of Grain Producers and Processors of Azerbaijan, told journalists at the Festival of Agrarian Innovations in Hajigabul, Azernews reports.

He noted that every year local seed growers began to occupy an increasing share of the market.

Amirbekov said last year's grain yield in Hajigabul was a national record: "Thus, the total yield was 55 centners. Hajigabul is a difficult area because of the climate and soil conditions. If we can achieve such results here, it means that success will be achieved in the agricultural sector".

New seed varieties are being tested in Azerbaijan together with research institutes and foreign specialists.

Chairman of the Board of the Association of Grain Producers and Processors of Azerbaijan Niyazi Amirbayov told journalists at the Festival of Agrarian Innovations in Hajigabul.

Amirbayov noted that every year more and more varieties resistant to drought are grown: "The use of quality seeds is a guarantee of a good harvest".

According to him, due to climate change, water resources are decreasing in the world, which is also observed in Azerbaijan: "In these conditions, selection of varieties resistant to climatic conditions is very important. We are conducting serious research in this field".

The country has seen a steady increase in its grain seed production over the past few years, thanks to the implementation of climate-smart agricultural practices and the use of nuclear and related techniques. A 2021 pilot project, supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), saw yields increase from the country's average of three tonnes per hectare to eight tonnes per hectare.

Azerbaijan is particularly vulnerable to climate change and soil degradation, with its average annual temperature rising by 0.4 degrees Celsius since 1991, decreasing rainfall, and more frequent extreme weather events, such as floods, droughts, or heat waves. To address this, IAEA experts developed a complete package of nuclear and related farming techniques, from preparing soil and selecting the best cotton varieties to applying nutrients and irrigation to cotton fields and ensuring weed, pest, and disease control.

The government has largely completed the privatization of agricultural lands and small and medium-sized enterprises, and in 2020, the Azerbaijan Renewable Energy Agency (AREA) replaced the State Agency on Alternative and Renewable Energy Sources (SAARES) to develop and implement renewable energy projects. The main objective of the agency is to increase the share of renewables in the power capacity up to 30% by 2030.

Azerbaijan has made a commitment to reduce its level of GHG emissions by 35% by 2030 compared to 1990. CO2 emissions from energy combustion have increased by around 4%/year since 2010 to 36 MtCO2 (5.8% in 2021).

Thanks to the implementation of climate-smart agricultural practices, the use of nuclear and related farming techniques, and the government's commitment to renewable energy, Azerbaijan is increasingly able to meet its own demand for grain seeds.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 20:05 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

ITFC shows interest in more active participation in financing important projects in Azerbaijan, which is in line with the organization's development plans until 2030, Azernews reports.

Hani Salem Sonbol, executive director of ITFC, part of the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) group, told reporters.

"Our focus will be on strategic projects such as renewable energy and green finance. We are also going to strengthen cooperation with SMEs in Azerbaijan. We recently signed an important agreement with Rabita Bank, which I am sure will strengthen our partnership and help support the country's development. Importantly, our diverse range of products can be utilized in both the public and private sectors, as well as in mixed enterprises and state-owned companies. We are committed to more active cooperation with Azerbaijan and see great potential for joint work with stakeholders, contributing to the development of the region as a whole," he said.

The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) is a member of the Islamic Development Bank Group and was established with the main purpose of trade development.

The IDB Group maintains strong relations with Azerbaijan and endeavors to contribute to its socio-economic development. The Group is implementing projects worth about $1.2 billion in Azerbaijan.

The portfolio includes $956 million in IDB financing, $120.2 million approved by ICD (Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector), $83.4 million in ITFC trade operations, and $19.4 million in other IDB Group funds and operations.

The ITFC was established in 2003, with the aim of developing and expanding intra-Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) trade. Since its inception, the ITFC has provided financing facilities of $9.361 billion, mainly aimed at covering the import needs of oil and refined petroleum products, in addition to the basic raw materials required for the manufacture of food products such as wheat.

The ITFC's 2021 program for Egypt was signed by Sonbol and other Egyptian officials in January 2021. The program will provide integrated financing solutions to Egypt for $1.1 billion, according to the Ministry of Planning. The program will support the Egyptian government's efforts to advance the economic recovery in Egypt in light of the repercussions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, which will lead to improving social and economic development initiatives and internal trade, as well as importing basic commodities such as food, crude oil, and petroleum products.

The ITFC is committed to supporting the development of the region and is actively working to strengthen the partnership with small and medium entrepreneurs in Azerbaijan. Sonbol expressed his confidence that the recently signed contract with Rabitabank OJSC will further strengthen the partnership between the ITFC and Azerbaijan. He noted that the corporation's services can be used in both the public and private sectors.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 17:00 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

We wish Armenia to hold the hand of peace extended by Azerbaijan for stability in the South Caucasus, Zeki Akturk, adviser on media and public relations of the Ministry of National Defense of Turkiye, said in a weekly briefing, Azernews reports.

The Ministry of National Defense of Turkiye's adviser on media and public relations, Zeki Akturk, expressed his support for peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan in a weekly briefing. Akturk stated that Turkiye is making sincere efforts to ensure peace between the two countries and will continue to stand by Azerbaijan in its righteous struggles.

Turkiye's support for peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan is a positive step towards stability in the South Caucasus. The international community must continue to support the efforts of both countries to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 11:35 (UTC+04:00)

While trade with neighboring Azerbaijan might improve the lot of Armenians, it would remove their leaders raison detre, Azernews reports, citing an article in Politico by Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration.

Azernews presents the article:

When the United States and its Western allies are so distracted by the war in Ukraine, it poses a challenge for those of us elsewhere in the world. How do we ensure the conflicts we face, which are just as urgent and real, are fully understood in the Western corridors of power and the columns of newspapers?

Take the situation in Karabakh.

This region of Azerbaijan was occupied by neighboring Armenia for 30 years. And after a brutal war in the early 1990s, which saw close to 1 million Azerbaijanis ethnically cleansed from their land, occupying Armenian forces mined thousands of square miles of this territory, save for a small holdout at its center. There, the remaining community of ethnic Armenians in Azerbaijan were connected to Armenia via a single land route  the Lachin road.

This gray zone of lawlessness and land mines existed illegally  and unchallenged  until three years ago, when Azerbaijan took much of the territory of Karabakh in a 44-day conflict.

Legally, and morally, the citizens who live in what remains of this gray zone are citizens of Azerbaijan  even the current Armenian prime minister publicly acknowledges that Karabakh is Azerbaijans sovereign territory. And this also means that Azerbaijan has a duty of care to those who live there regardless of and  perhaps even more so given recent history  because of their ethnicity.

The Azerbaijan government has repeatedly offered to supply the Armenians of Karabakh with food, medicine and more via roads that provide closer and faster passage than Lachin. The land routes Azerbaijan offers are acknowledged as viable and usable by the European Union, the U.S. and the International Committee of the Red Cross, and just this week, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for the immediate and simultaneous opening of both corridors.

But what has been reported in the international media is something different.

The idea that solely Armenia should supply ethnic Armenians living in the neighboring country of Azerbaijan through a single monoethnic route is  we are encouraged to believe  somehow acceptable to the international community and media.

And we are told this is because this conflict is different to others, that Armenians cannot live side by side in the same country with Azerbaijanis because of our history. But both our past and present teach us this simply is not true.

Before the war of the 1990s, Azerbaijanis and ethnic Armenians lived together, side by side, in Karabakh in peace. Today, a 30,000-strong Jewish community lives in Azerbaijan. An evangelical Christian community is growing. Georgians, Russians, Ukrainians all make up todays multiethnic and multireligious country. This could, and should, apply to the Armenians of Karabakh as well.

There are, however, powerful forces within Armenia that do not want this situation to change, or this story to be fully told. For decades, the countrys leadership has originated not from Armenia itself but from politicians who first ruled the separatist holdout in Karabakh.

Such leaders today seek retrenchment. A peace deal on offer between Azerbaijan and Armenia is an anathema to them. But were this land-locked nation to become a land-linked one, Armenias integration into the global economic community, away from its present-day isolation, would be achievable.

While trade with neighboring Azerbaijan might improve the lot of the Armenian people, however, it would remove these leaders raison detre. And in their fight to maintain influence, these politicians have demanded the roads Azerbaijan offers as supply routes be sealed and blockaded.

The pain these monoethnic nationalists have created for their own country and the wider region is difficult for Westerners  who have spent the last generation living in relative peace  to fully understand.

In my own office, there are Azerbaijanis who were born and raised in Armenia; they were forced to flee as the war began 30 years ago. And every one of us knows someone  a brother, a sister, a cousin, a friend, a colleague  who was forced from Karabakh during the war and forced to live as refugees. All these lives ruined, all this pain, all to create todays monoethnic Armenia, and in support of a monoethnic gray zone in Karabakh.

But it doesnt have to continue this way.

Azerbaijanis want peace. We want restitution, reconciliation and, perhaps, one day even friendship with our neighbor. Stories that claim otherwise dont help establish peace, nor do they bring a deal to the table. Indeed, the purpose of their promulgation is quite the opposite  they are intended to drive those negotiating on both sides of this most delicate and sensitive issue further apart.

Politics are at play here. And more than anywhere else, it is the politics of Armenia itself.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 13:58 (UTC+04:00)

The Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Hikmat Hajiyev, shared a post on his X (former twitter) page in response to the pro-Armenian senator of the US Congress Bob Menendez's biased speech against Azerbaijan in the senate. The Azerbaijani official said that the senator, who unilaterally serves the Armenians, lied before the Foreign Relations Committee about the Armenian minority in Garabagh and shared fake photos, Azernews reports.

"Instead of answering serious corruption allegations, congressman Menendez lies to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee with false information and fake pictures. The person presented in the picture died of cancer. Armenians themselves are ashamed to use this naked lie any longer after provided substantial criminal-medical evidence. This kind of lobbyism, 'moneytalkism,' sheer lie and racist hate against Azerbaijanis and others undermine the image and global reputation of the United States Congress. Shameful!"

Instead of answering serious corruption allegations, congressman Menendez lies to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee @SFRCdems with false information and fake pictures. The person presented in the picture died of cancer. Armenians themselves are ashamed to use this naked lie https://t.co/c2R18szRJr  Hikmet Hajiyev (@HikmetHajiyev) September 13, 2023

Pro-Armenian Bob Menendez, who was accused of corruption in 2015, tried to present a picture of an Armenian resident of Garabagh, who died of cancer, as if he died of hunger.

Bob Menendez repeatedly made biased statements against Azerbaijan in the US Congress. Menendez's aggressive speech in the senate stems from his extreme hatred for Azerbaijan and his Turkophobic sentiment. It seems that Bob Menendez could not digest the recent successful political steps taken by the Azerbaijani leadership in exposing the Armenian provocations, and for this reason, he vomited his hatred in front of the congress tribune with all his might.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 15:44 (UTC+04:00)

On the occasion of the beginning of the training year, the military oath-taking ceremony for cadets newly admitted to the Military Lyceum named after Jamshid Nakhchivanski of the National Defense University was held, Azernews reports, citing the Ministry.

The ceremony was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Defense, military personnel and teachers of the lyceum, parents, public representatives, and other guests.

First, the memory of the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev, and Shehids (Martyrs), who sacrificed their lives for the independence and sovereignty of Azerbaijan, was honored with observing a minute of silence. The National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan accompanied by a military orchestra was performed.

The speakers at the military oath-taking ceremony congratulated the young cadets, wished them success in their future military service, as well as advised the cadets to be loyal to the Motherland, the state, the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, and the military oath, to serve in an exemplary and disciplined manner, timely and accurately fulfill the orders of the commanding staff.

Then the cadets took an oath of allegiance to the Motherland in the parade ground.

The cadets performed the lyceums march accompanied by the military orchestra and solemnly marched in front of the podium.

In the end, the parents got acquainted with the training process, living conditions, and the military educational institutions territory.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 14:30 (UTC+04:00)

The 5th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia has been held in Dushanbe.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the meeting as the guest of honor.

President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon welcomed President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and other heads of state.

Then, a family photo was taken.

President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Zhaparov, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev addressed the event.

Then the floor was given to the President of Azerbaijan.

Speech by President Ilham Aliyev

- Dear Emomali Sharipovich!

Esteemed heads of state!

Dear friends!

First, I would like to express my gratitude to the President of Tajikistan, esteemed Emomali Sharipovich Rahmon, for the invitation to attend the 5th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia as the guest of honor. I also express my gratitude to dear colleagues for supporting Azerbaijans participation in this event.

This is my second visit to brotherly Tajikistan this year. My state visit in April, decisions taken during the visit and the signed documents reaffirmed the strategic nature of our relations. We are looking forward to the state visit of the President of Tajikistan to Azerbaijan. I am confident that it will further contribute to strengthening of our relations. Taking this opportunity, I would like to congratulate the friendly people of Tajikistan on the Independence Day.

Azerbaijan and the countries of Central Asia are bound by the centuries-long brotherhood ties of our peoples. Shared cultural roots are the solid foundation of interstate relations.

For over 30 years, as independent states, we actively engage both in bilateral and multilateral formats. We support each others independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and actively develop economic ties. With growing economy, demographics and geopolitical potential Central Asia and Azerbaijan is a single historical and cultural geographic region of strategic significance in world politics.

It is the first time that I am participating in the Consultative Meeting, and I wish to express my confidence that this format of regional cooperation will contribute to bringing our countries and peoples closer.

In the last 2 years I have paid 9 visits to the Central Asian states. During the same period, all the heads of the brotherly states made numerous visits to Azerbaijan. The active dynamics of reciprocal visits will continue until the end of the year.

The growth of mutual trade and investments is one of the key factors of the bilateral cooperation. It is gratifying that the figures in both of those directions indicate consistent growth.

Last year the trade turnover of Azerbaijan with the Central Asian countries increased more than 3 times. During 7 months of this year  for another 50 %.

Joint investment funds have been established, and with over $1 billion of investments for the coming 3 years have been agreed. We are already implementing many projects in the sphere of industrial cooperation, machine-building, automobile industry, shipbuilding and agriculture, namely cotton production, sericulture, horticulture and livestock farming. Investment projects in hotel business and tourism are at the initial stage of implementation. We see the interest of Central Asian companies in the Alat Free Economic Zone established recently in Azerbaijan.

The sphere of transportation and logistics holds an important place in our relations. For the Central Asian countries Azerbaijan is a reliable transit country along the route to the markets of Turkiye and Europe. Not of the least significance is the transit in the opposite direction. Our brothers in Central Asia know that Azerbaijans entire transportation and logistics infrastructure is available to them.

We are modernizing the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway to meet the rising demand for cargo transportation through the East-West route. The cargo volume via that road will be increased from 1 to 5 million tons. In parallel to that, the capacity of the Baku Trade Port is also being expanded from current 15 to 25 million tons.

Azerbaijan has the largest trade fleet in the Caspian Sea with over 50 vessels. Given the growing demand of the shippers from Central Asia, we are actively working on expanding the capabilities of our shipyard. Upon the completion of investment projects, the number of manufactured tankers and dry cargo vessels will be increased from current 6 to 10-15 vessels annually.

It is necessary to ensure optimization of tariffs and simplification and streamlining of regulatory and customs procedures in order to attract larger volume of cargo. Digitalization of the East-West transportation corridor is one the key factors in providing for transparency of transit shipping and creating equal opportunities for parties involved in the transportation process.

The Digital Silk Way project on the establishment of a fiber-optic infrastructure is the new cooperation sphere between our countries that we are actively working on.

Dear colleagues!

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the inception of the United Nations Special Program for the Economies of Central Asia  SPECA. I have sent official invitations to the esteemed heads of state and will be delighted to welcome you at the Summit in Baku this November.

I want to once again express my gratitude to all the heads of state for the invitation to todays meeting and wish the brotherly peoples of Central Asia peace and prosperity.

Thank you for your attention.

X X X

The initiative of holding consultative meetings of the Heads of State of Central Asia was put forward by President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev in 2017. The first meeting was held in Kazakhstan, the second in Uzbekistan, the third in Turkmenistan, and the fourth in Kyrgyzstan.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 14:49 (UTC+04:00)

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has congratulated the Jewish community of Azerbaijan on the New Year - Rosh Hashanah.

The letter reads:

Esteemed Mr. President,

On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I am happy to extend my cordial congratulations and sincerest wishes to you and through you to the friendly people of Israel on the occasion of the upcoming Jewish New Year - Rosh Hashana.

I wish that this bright holiday, which brings a new spirit to people and gives new hopes for the future, brings you and your family, your friendly people and your country good days, peace, prosperity, abundance and blessings.

I am sure that we will continue to make joint efforts to further strengthen and expand Azerbaijan-Israel friendship and cooperation in line with the will of our peoples, who always cherish their national and moral values.

Sincerely,

Ilham Aliyev

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, 12 September 2023

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Krynica Forum 2023 in Krynica, southern Poland, Sept. 13, in this photo provided by his office. Yonhap



South Korea is concerned about the possibility of military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has said, after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un held a rare summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.



Han made the remarks during his speech at the opening ceremony of the Krynica Forum 2023 in Krynica, southern Poland, on Wednesday as the North's Kim pledged full support for Russia while Putin promised to help the North with satellite development during their summit at Russia's rocket launch facility.



"We are witnessing relations between Russia and North Korea drawing closer," Han said. "News about the possibility of military cooperation between the two countries is worrisome."



Han said the North's nuclear missile development poses threats not only to East Asia but also represents substantial threats to Europe as well, noting that North Korean ballistic missiles have the potential to reach the entire continent.



Pyongyang and Moscow have yet to release the details of the Kim-Putin meeting, with the possibility of North Korea supplying ammunition for Russia's war in Ukraine looming. During the meeting, Kim made comments that apparently endorse Russia's war in Ukraine.






14 September 2023 17:50 (UTC+04:00)

Servicemen of the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan and Turkiye are conducting joint exercises in Turkiye, Zeki Aktyurk, media and public relations adviser of the Turkish Ministry of National Defence, said this at a weekly briefing, Azernews reports.

Joint exercises of underwater attack and underwater defense units of special purpose naval battalions of the Azerbaijani Navy and special purpose units of the Turkish Navy started on 8 September and will end on 15 September.

The exercises are aimed at improving the interaction between the two countries' armed forces. The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry stated that the drills are intended to "develop the military decision-making, initiative, and management skills of operational unit commanders."

Turkiye and Azerbaijan have a long history of military cooperation, and this is evidenced by the success of Azerbaijan in the recent Garabagh conflict.

The six-week war concluded in November with a Russian-brokered cease-fire, under which a chunk of the region and all seven districts around it were placed under Azerbaijani administration after almost 30 years of control by Armenian forces. It also resulted in the deployment of around 2,000 Russian peacekeepers. More than 6,000 people died in the fighting.

The joint exercises of the Azerbaijani and Turkish naval forces are a testament to the strong military ties between the two countries and a sign of their commitment to further strengthening their relationship.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 17:09 (UTC+04:00)

The awarding ceremony of Chairman of the People's Council of the National Assembly of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has been held in Dushanbe.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and other heads of state attended the ceremony.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 23:00 (UTC+04:00)

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and other presidents participating in the 5th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia have viewed the EXPO Central Asia 2023 exhibition in Dushanbe.

The exhibition organized with the support of the government of Tajikistan features leading companies and their products.

The purpose of the exhibition is to introduce products of manufacturing companies and strengthen trade cooperation between countries of Central Asia.

The pavilions of Central Asian countries demonstrate a large assortment of light industry and cocoon production, hydropower and innovative equipment, household appliances, as well as meat products, dairy products, dried fruits, canned food, soft drinks and other products.

Cars, passenger and cargo vehicles, military defense vehicles, as well as agricultural equipment from Central Asian countries were on display in the open area of the exhibition.

The exhibition also featured the results of activities and achievements of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea and the World Health Organization.

The exhibition also provided detailed information about trade along the Silk Road, which took place in ancient times, and the activities of Tajik artisans in different periods.

The hydropower resources of Tajikistan were demonstrated in a separate corner.

Then the heads of state visited an exhibition of industrial products of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.

It was noted that the organization of such a large regional exhibition contributes to the expansion of trade cooperation, the development of production workshops and enterprises, and an increase in the range and volume of industrial products in the countries involved.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 23:58 (UTC+04:00)

An official reception has been hosted on behalf of President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon in honor of the presidents participating in the 5th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia in Dushanbe, Azernews reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the event.

Then, the heads of state had a conversation at a tea table.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 09:00 (UTC+04:00)

The issue of opening a new Tashkent - Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk air route is also being considered, Azernews reports, citing Kun.uz News Agency.

On September 12, Transport Minister Ilhom Mahkamov held a meeting with Deputy Minister of Transport of the Russian Federation Dmitry Zverev.

According to the ministry, the parties discussed the issues of bilateral cooperation in the field of transport and logistics at the meeting.

In particular, the issue of increasing the number of permit forms for international car transportation, increasing the frequency of flights between the cities of the two countries, and opening a new route Tashkent - Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk was considered.

In addition, the sides exchanged views on the organization of export-import cargo transportation in the multimodal route Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan-Caspian Sea-Russia and other issues of cooperation.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 September 2023 19:12 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

Azerbaijan Association of Travel Agencies (ATAA) summed up the annual activities.

The meeting covered the association's activities focused on the expansion of the relations between the public and private sectors, steps taken in the development of inbound and outbound tourism, medical tourism as well as the promotion of the country's tourism potential in foreign markets, Azernews reports.

Speaking about the successes achieved in the tourism sector, the chairman of the State Tourism Agency Fuad Naghiyev noted that 1.3 million tourists visited Azerbaijan in January-August of this year, which indicates that the country's tourism is rapidly recovering in the post-pandemic.

"It is planned to increase the number of foreign tourists traveling to Azerbaijan to 4 million and the number of local tourists to 6 million by 2026. The share of the tourism sector in the gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to rise by 1.5 times compared to 2019 in the next four years. We are focusing on raising the share of the tourism sector in the GDP by 20 percent every year. It is also planned to increase spending by tourists to AZN10bn ($5.9bn billion)," said Fuad Naghiyev.

A video report dedicated to the results of ATAA's annual activity was also presented as part of the event.

It is worth noting that Azerbaijan has embarked upon measures for the recovery of the country's tourism sector after the pandemic.

The country is exploring the dimensions of tourism revival and carrying out major work to ensure sustainable tourism development.

Azerbaijan Tourism Summit 2022 was another turning point in the country's tourism sector.

Within the summit, members of the tourism industry, state, and private sector representatives discuss development trends in tourism.

The summit participants also set goals for the next four years. The State Tourism Agency has set up goals aimed at the improvement of Azerbaijan's tourism industry within the "2022-2026 Socio-Economic Development Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan".

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
Thank you for reading!

Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading.
You can reach Ishani Desai at 661-395-7417. You can also follow her at @_ishanidesai on Twitter.
This photo, provided by South Korea's defense ministry, April 13, shows military officials from South Korea and the United States posing during a two-day Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue meeting in Washington, U.S. Yonhap



South Korea and the United States will hold regular defense talks on deterrence against North Korean nuclear and missile threats in Seoul next week, Seoul's defense ministry said Thursday.



The Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD), which will take place next Monday, is expected to touch on a range of security issues, including policy coordination on ways to respond to and deter North Korea's nuclear and missile threats, the strengthening of the joint defense posture and the envisioned conditions-based transfer of wartime operational control, according to the ministry.






Despite reservations, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law Saturday a bill designed to make sure that adequate sums of money are set aside to pro
Lois Henry is the CEO and editor of SJV Water, a nonprofit, independent online news publication dedicated to covering water issues in the San Joaquin Valley. She can be reached at lois.henry@sjvwater.org. The website is sjvwater.org.
It has been far too many years since the Woke theology interlaced its canons within the fabric of the Indoctrination Realm, so it is nigh time to ask: Does this Representative Republic continue, as a functioning society of a self-governed people, by contending with the unusual, self absorbed dictates of the Woke, and their vast array of Victimhood scenarios? Yes, the Religion of Woke must continue; there are so many groups of underprivileged, underserved, a direct result of unrelenting Inequity; they deserve everything. No; the Woke fools must be toppled from their self-anointed pedestal; a functioning society of a good Constitutional people cannot withstand this level of "existential" favoritism as it exists now. I just observe; with this thoughtful observation: What will happen "when the Vikings are breeching our walls;" how do the Woke react? 808 total vote(s) What's your Opinion?



On Tuesday, North Carolina Senate Republicans passed a bill prohibiting medical professionals from administeringto minors.Sen. Joyce Krawiec, R-Forsyth, said.House Bill 808 (H.B. 808) would prohibit state funds from being used for certain medical procedures and treatments related to gender transition for individuals under 18. This includes surgical procedures and the prescription, provision, or distribution of drugs that block puberty or alter hormonal levels in minors.Additionally, the bill allows impacted minors to bring civil action within a 25-year window.The Senate voted in favor of the bill by a margin of 29-16, with all present Republicans voting for the measure and all present Democrats voting against it.Krawiec said.Bill sponsors for H.B. 808 are Reps. Hugh Blackwell, R-Burke; Mark Pless, R-Haywood; Ken Fontenot, R-Wilson; and John Torbett, R-Gaston.The Senate introduced an originally identical bill, S.B. 639. Sponsors of the S.B. 639 are Ralph Hise, R-Mitchell; Buck Newton, R-Wilson; and Norm Sanderson, R-Pamlico.During the debate, Krawiec challenged 16 studies cited by Democrats, claiming that following the peer-review process, all of the studies that suggested that children were more likely to commit suicide if they did not transition were proven untrue.Krawiec said.On the other side of the debate, Senate Democrats argued that H.B. 808 represents government intrusion into family decisions.Sen. Jay Chaudhuri, D-Wake, said.Earlier this year, Chaudri opposed legislation that expands parents' options to choose schools for their children.Chaudhuri proposed an amendment to the bill, which included granting children the right to comfort in school. However, the amendment was tabled.Sen. Natasha Marcus, D-Mecklendburg, proposed an amendment to the bill that aimed to prohibit certain individuals struggling with gender identity or sexual orientation from receiving any form of conversion therapy.Additionally, the amendment included a provision that restricted counseling for these individuals, allowing it only if the counselingHowever, the amendment did not pass and was tabled.After receiving bipartisan support once already in the House, H.B. 808 now proceeds back to the House for a concurrence vote.Afterwards, it is expected that Gov.Cooper will veto the bill.
An influential staffer at the General Assembly recently described NCInnovation as a "free market approach"

The description relies on a gross mischaracterization of free markets

As a government program using taxpayer dollars doled out by political appointees, there is nothing "free market" about NCInnovation

This post appears here courtesy of the John Locke Foundation . The author of this post is Brian Balfour The North Carolina Senate's decision to include $1.4 billion for NCInnovation in their budget proposal has stirred up quite the controversy. The program would use taxpayer dollars to help facilitate more technological research and development at University of North Carolina campuses and also provide funding for startup companies seeking to bring such technology to market.The Locke Foundation has panned this proposal for being both an obvious crony operation diverting taxpayer dollars to certain companies hand-picked by political appointees as well as lacking even the most basic of transparency requirements and separation of powers in its oversight.The main justification for the proposal by NCInnovation backers is that North Carolinain commercializing university research, so therefore more governmentis needed to solve this supposed problem.The excuse-making for NCInnovation reached laughable levels recently, however, when longtime legislative attorney for Senate leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham), Brent Woodcox, took to Twitter to insist that the program represents ato improving our state's economy.There are several problems with Woodcox's declaration, but for the sake of brevity I'll concentrate on three.For starters, Woodcox presents a false choice involving just two options:or use the tax dollars to produce aFirst off, NCInnnovation is another government program. It's organized by the government, funded by the government, granted special privileges by the government, and directed by political appointees.Moreover, those aren't the only two options for how $1.4 billion in taxpayer dollars can be used. It could be returned to taxpayers or used to leverage an even more rapid decrease in our income tax rates. It could be set aside in the Savings Reserve Fund to bolster that already robust reserve and better protect state finances against the looming recession. Or it could be dedicated to curtailing the nearly $40 billion in unfunded pension and health care liabilities or paying down the nearly $4 billion in tax-supported General Fund state debt, either of which would ease taxpayer burdens for years to come.Woodcox acts as if the only two possible options are the ones he presents, disingenuously tipping the scales in favor of his preferred option.Missing what thein free market meansThat Woodcox can with a straight face declare that NCInnovation presents ais evidence that a brief primer on free markets is in order.Bywe refer to buyers and sellers engaging in transactions with each other, along with the various actions and interactions that create the vast patterns of production and exchange we call "the economy."Bywe mean free from government intervention, aside from enforcement of property rights and contractual agreements. As such,consists of people voluntarily using their own money and property to engage in buying, selling, producing, and investing. The decision makers are the people.Clearly, NCInnovation violates these basic free market principles. The funding comes from the collection of taxes, decidedly not a voluntary transaction. From there, the political appointees award other people's money to their chosen businesses, shielding the decision makers from any personal risk or reward from these so-called investments. The people whose money is at stake - the taxpayers - have no say over how their money is allotted.PoliticalFinally, Woodcox tries to adapt the market concept ofto NCInnovation. But NCInnovation is a political, not market, entity. As such, whateverbeing referenced is political in nature, not the market-based financial returns most people are familiar with.Politicians are self-interested actors motivated by acquiring, expanding, and holding on to political power. As such, politicalinvolve the improvement of these political aims.Politicians shore up their power through multiple means, including rewarding their donors, creating greater dependency that makes for a reliable voting bloc, and financing patronage networks to create greater loyalty.NCInnovations'should be expected to be focused on these goals, rather than the careful fiduciary oversight of taxpayer dollars. Creating a massive, $1.4 billion endowment featuring political appointees doling out funds to hand-picked companies will no doubt create the perfect recipe for corruption and cronyism.Nothing about the Senate's NCInnovation proposal resembles a free market. Advocates of actual free markets should diligently refute any attempts to distort or mischaracterize what the free market represents, such as what defenders of NCInnovation are attempting to do. Favorable opinions of free markets are disappointingly low among Americans, especially the younger generation.Labeling crony government programs like NCInnovation as free market will only further erode that favorability, diminishing support for the greatest engine of poverty reduction the world has ever known.
Lib Campbell: Above

The text from my friend came in around 8:30 Sunday morning. He reported that antisemitic flyers were distributed on all the driveways in his Quail Hollow neighborhood. He sent a picture of the flyer, filled with hate and disinformation about Jews. As disgusting as this propaganda is, it is not the first time this has happened, nor is it the first group it has happened to.There were several neighborhoods targeted in Raleigh. North Ridge, an upscale community in North Raleigh, was one of them. WRAL reports there is a large Jewish presence there because it is in walking distance of a synagogue. Synagogue goers are frequent targets.Hate crimes against Jews, Blacks, LGBTQ, immigrants and women are on the rise. Why, we ask? Could one possibility be the current spin on free speech that implies anybody can say anything they want to whomever they want, at any time they want, by any means they choose. Spreading hate, lies, bullying and threats are not what I call free speech. It's dangerous and ugly speech that hurts. We see elected leaders, those who have held office, those who want to regain their office, and those serving now leading the way into toxic hate. They bring people along, their lawyers and surrogates from the state house to the White House who will never say the emperor has no clothes.The group claiming responsibility for the blanket of hate in Raleigh is the Goyin Defense Fund. If you google their web site, they do not mince words about their mission:The Southern Poverty Law Center placed the Goyin group on their growing list of hate groups, along-side the KKK. Must make their mamas proud.Hate spreads like cancer until it eats up a soul or destroys a republic. Grievance is a sad burden to carry. Grievance begets hate; hate begets harm. This how the world is turning now. As much external foreign threat as there is around the world, the internal domestic threat of hate and violence is terrifying. Antisemitic flyers on driveways are the tip of the iceberg. If the police are lucky, someone may have a Ring doorbell with video that captured a face or a license plate number.When a mission is to expel whole swaths of people from America, we all have a problem. Disenfranchisement of groups who are not white, heterosexual, Christian men is happening all around us. There was a time when America celebrated being the Melting Pot. Immigrants were welcomed for the gifts and diversities they brought. Gay people who were relegated to theera contributed their broad gifts without threat of harm. It seems that being able to be authentic and transparent in the world is just too much for some people to accept.If rejection were the only hurt, we might be able to bear it. But threats and hate, berating and shaming cut deep. We are not a homogenized people. We are a fabric of many colors and many designs. The contributions of Jewish immigrants who came to America are huge. We would not be who we are as a nation without them or any of the other targeted groups.I don't know who can or will fix this. People are suspicious of law enforcement and skeptical of our judicial system and Department of Justice. Most of us are totally fed up with the antics of our congress. I think the only ones left to fix the hate problem we are drowning in is you and me. Let us not be afraid; goodness always wins. Write a letter. Sign a petition. Carry a sign. Vote every time the polls open. That's always a good first step.
Oliver Street Dermatology, a Texas management company that operates dermatology practices, ASCs and pathology laboratories, has agreed to pay $8.9 million to settle self-reported allegations that it violated Stark law.

From January 2013 to July 2018, the company, doing business as U.S. Dermatology Partners, acquired several dermatology practices across the country, according to a Sept. 13 news release from the Justice Department.

In September 2021, the company self-disclosed to the Justice Department that it found evidence suggesting former senior managers agreed to increase the purchase price of 11 practices in exchange for an agreement by the provider to refer services to entities affiliated with U.S. Dermatology Partners following the acquisition.
Former Youngstown, Ohio-based OB-GYN Samir Wahib, MD, was sentenced for his role in a kickback scheme, WKBN reported Sept. 14.

From March 2014 to January 2017, Dr. Wahib was involved in a scheme that billed federal healthcare programs for gonorrhea and chlamydia testing.

According to the report, Dr. Wahib gave kickbacks to two co-conspirators, Michelle Kapon, MD, and Joni Canby, MD, after they sent him samples from their patients. Dr. Wahib would then submit claims for the tests.

Dr. Wahib was sentenced to four months in prison and three years of probation and must pay a $55,000 fine, along with $211,092 in restitution with his co-conspirators. In June, he pleaded guilty of one count to solicit, receive offers and pay kickbacks and four counts of receipt of kickback in connection with a federal healthcare program.
Springfield (Ill.) Clinic's Peoria Surgery Center has plans to open later in 2023, the Peoria Journal Star reported Sept. 14.

The building where the new surgery center is opening previously housed Peoria Day Surgery Center. The facility is being expanded and remodeled to include four operating rooms and six private rooms for patients.

The center will be the first ASC in Peoria, Ill., to have the Da Vinci surgical robot, Steven Tsoraides, MD, one of the physicians opening the center, told the Peoria Journal Star.




The Supreme Court on Thursday upheld a lower court's two-year prison sentence for Don Spike, a disgraced composer and television personality who was convicted of habitual drug use.







The 46-year-old musician, whose real name is Kim Min-su, was indicted in October last year for purchasing and using methamphetamine on multiple occasions and a lower court sentenced him to a three-year prison term, suspended for five years, in January this year.







But the Seoul High Court revised the sentence and imposed a two-year prison term for him in June.







The Supreme Court said there was no error or misunderstanding of the legal principles in the lower court's verdict on the defendant. (Yonhap)


The FDA issued warning letters to eight companies for manufacturing or marketing unapproved ophthalmic drugs that have questionable sterility and the potential to harm users.

The eye products are illegally marketed to treat conditions such as conjunctivitis, cataracts and glaucoma, according to a Sept. 12 news release from the agency. The letters also cite the companies for quality issues related to product sterility.

The unapproved ophthalmic drugs pose a risk to users because they are applied directly to the eyes, according to the release. Some contain silver, which can cause some areas of the skin and other body tissues, including in the eye, to permanently turn gray or blue-gray with long-term use. Additionally, consumers may stop proven safe and effective medical treatments in lieu of these unapproved drugs due to their claims to cure, treat or prevent serious conditions.

The FDA sent warnings to the following companies:

Boiron

CVS Health

DR Vitamin Solutions

Natural Ophthalmics

OcluMed

Similasan AG/Similasan USA

TRP Company

Walgreens Boots Alliance

The agency asked the companies to respond within 15 days of receiving the letters, stating how they will correct the violations, according to the release. The FDA also placed some of these companies on import alert to help stop their products from entering the U.S. and reaching consumers.
A Connecticut dentist who is accused of more than $200,000 in Medicaid fraud, rejected a plea bargain offer, according to a Sept. 14 report by the New Haven Register.

Christian O'Connor, DMD, who practiced North Haven, Conn., was arrested in 2021 after allegedly billing Medicaid for approximately $200,484 worth of dental work that was never done.

The plea bargain included three years of probation, with up to five years in prison if the terms were violated, and would have required Dr. O'Connor to make an up-front payment of the more than $200,000 in claims he allegedly improperly submitted to Medicaid.

Dr. O'Connor has been charged with first-degree larceny and health insurance fraud. Both charges carry a maximum of 20 years in prison.

As a result of Dr. O'Connor rejecting the offer, his case was placed on the trial list, the report said.
The philanthropic foundation established by Best Buy founder Richard Schulze is donating $25 million to Allina Health's 10-story expansion of Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis. The gift is the largest in Allina's history, according to the Star Tribune.

The donation is a boost for Allina, which reported an operating loss of $122.7 million on $1.28 billion of revenue in the second quarter and recently delayed plans to replace its Cambridge, Minn., hospital, according to the report.

Last year, Allina's board voted to authorize $1.2 billion in spending through bonds and other funding to build the Abbott Northwestern patient tower, which broke ground Sept. 14.

Earlier this year, the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation donated $20 million to Naples, Fla-based NCH Healthcare System. The funding will go towards the system's planned cardiac and stroke center, which will cost almost $200 million.
San Francisco-based Laguna Honda Hospital is in line to receive up to $28.4 million for emergency renovations as it attempts to rejoin Medicare, NPR affiliate KQED reported Sept. 13.

The hospital had its application for Medicaid recertification approved Aug. 16. An application to rejoin Medicare was submitted Aug. 23, according to the report. Medicare approval is crucial for resuming admissions to the hospital, which have been on hold since regulators decertified it for safety violations in April 2022.

Laguna Honda serves as a safety net for San Francisco residents with complex medical needs who are low or very low income and often have no other options for care. A majority of the patients are enrolled in Medicare upon admission to the facility and later transition into Medicaid, according to the report.

As part of the Medicare recertification process, CMS officials will inspect the hospital, which could come at any time and without notice, according to the report. In part, regulators will be inspecting for potential hazards and improvements to previously identified areas of concern.

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors authorized the city to spend up to $28.4 million on repairs at the facility, according to the report.

The approved repairs will include fixing HVAC system deficiencies and leaky fuel lines, and replacing items like an old X-ray, kitchen freezer, water tank, kitchen floors and a backup power generator, according to the report.






Irving, Texas-based Christus Health has awarded nearly $3 million to 42 nonprofits in Texas, New Mexico and Louisiana through its community impact fund.

Christus' community impact fund supports programs led by local organizations addressing the needs of the community and improving its health and well-being.

The nonprofits received the funds for programs that address key social determinants of health in the communities they serve, including housing instability, food insecurity, transportation needs, medication assistance and access to services.

"As an anchor institution in the community, we can play a role in convening and collaborating with local organizations to support their programs that help improve the health and well-being of the community," Jessica Guerra, Christus program manager for community benefits, said in a Sept. 14 news release.

The next application process opens Sept. 18.
Greenville, S.C.-based Prisma Children's Hospital-Upstate is looking to raise $6 million for a new pediatric cancer and blood disorder treatment unit, Greenville Journal reported Sept. 14.

So far, the Inspire Courage campaign has raised $3.8 million. The hospital plans to start construction of the new unit in 2024.

The expanded unit will create nine new rooms for pediatric patients with cancer, bleeding disorders and sickle cell diseases. Hospital officials aim to wrap-up construction two years after breaking ground.

"This specially designed space will better blend family care with clinical care, helping reduce stress and offer a positive healing environment that nourishes the mind, body and soul," said Aniket Saha, MD, the unit's medical director.
Patients of Chicago-based CommonSpirit Health had their data compromised in the massive MOVEit hack that stole private information from millions of people across the globe.

The affected patients received care at the former Centennial, Colo.-based Centura Health, which now operates under the CommonSpirit name, and were exposed via the use of Nuance Communications, a Microsoft subsidiary that listens to and documents medical appointments, according to a Sept. 13 notice from CommonSpirit. Nuance employed the MOVEit file transfer software from Progress Software that was hacked in late May.

The breached data may include patient and facility names, dates and types of service performed, and medical record numbers. The health system is mailing letters to affected patients.

The worldwide hack has affected a variety of industries and at least 60 million people. Other health systems that had patient information exposed in the breach include Baltimore-based Johns Hopkins Medicine, Dallas-based UT Southwestern Medical Center, and Louisville, Ky.-based UofLHealth. Clop, a ransomware gang with ties to Russia, has claimed responsibility for the data theft.
Several hospitals and health systems across the U.S. are facing lawsuits regarding data breach incidents that involved patients' protected health information.

Here are lawsuits involving five hospitals and health systems as reported by Becker's since Aug. 23:
In 2018, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs tapped Cerner to overhaul its EHR system. Recently, a series of slowdowns, legislative spats and open letters have again turned attention to the VA's EHR overhaul process.

A rundown of VA Oracle Cerner news:
New York City-based Mount Sinai Health is to close its Beth Israel campus in the city "after years of agonizing debate and analysis" and could open a smaller facility downtown in the future.

The closure will be gradual after an initial reduction of the inpatient bed count at the 696-bed teaching hospital, with the eventual shuttering expected to take a few years.

"We will remain open with a smaller bed count as we work with regulators to gradually close the 16th St. campus at MSBI and continue to evaluate various options for a smaller hospital nearby," according to a news release provided to Becker's.

Mount Sinai will offer affected unionized employees similar roles within the system.

The hospital will close despite "massive investments and upgrades" within the past 10 years. Escalating losses, with a further $150 million expected this year, and chronic underutilization with inpatient use typically at only 20 percent of capacity, have forced the issue.

"Maintaining the status quo is no longer an option," according to the news release. "As a leading non-profit institution, we must take immediate steps to preserve our ability to continue providing healthcare services to the greater New York City community."

While the hospital gradually closes, Mount Sinai Beth Israel will continue to maintain a presence in downtown New York with its new $140 million behavioral health center and other facilities.

"While we will never abandon the downtown community, continuing to keep the MSBI 16th St. hospital open would jeopardize the mission of the Mount Sinai Health System," the release concluded.
An electric board at Seoul Station informs passengers about a general strike by rail workers, Sept. 13. Yonhap



Unionized rail workers went on a four-day general strike Thursday, their first collective action in about four years, which is expected to reduce passenger and freight train services by up to 60 percent.



The Korean Railway Workers' Union kicked off the walkout at 9 a.m. nationwide, demanding better working conditions and an expansion of KTX high-speed train services to include a lucrative station in southern Seoul.



The strike, set to last until 9 a.m. Monday, is the first since the last one in November of 2019.



Korea Railroad Corp. (KORAIL), the national railway operator, plans to reduce the operations of passenger trains, including the high-speed KTX service, and cargo trains by 20-60 percent in the wake of the strike.



The collective action is intended to pressure the transport ministry to come to the dialogue table on allowing KTX trains, run by KORAIL, to access Suseo Station, the starting station of another high-speed train service called Super Rapid Train (SRT).



KTX and SRT, run by SR Corp., start at Seoul Station and Suseo Station, respectively, and use different routes to Pyeongtaek, 60 kilometers south of the capital, on the way to the southern cities of Busan and Mokpo.





Civic activists hold a press conference in front of the headquarters of the North Jeolla provincial government, Sept. 14, in support of the rail workers' strike. Yonhap



The union said an integration of KTX and SRT services will help with seat shortages and fare costs, raising suspicion that their separate operations, as well as the ministry's apparent preferential treatment of SR Corp. may be a step toward the privatization of railways.



The union is also demanding better working conditions, such as the full implementation of the four-team two-shift system that the company has agreed to introduce to ensure that rail workers do not work the night shift for two days in a row.



KORAIL plans to mobilize replacement workers to ensure KTX and other train services run at 70 percent of the normal capacity during the morning and evening rush hours to minimize public inconvenience.



On Wednesday, Labor Minister Lee Jeong-sik urged unionized rail workers to cancel their plan to stage a general strike, citing its grave impact on the economy and the people's daily lives.



The government voiced concerns about the impacts that the collective action will have on the country's exports and the industry, though its short-term impact is expected to be limited.





A freight train moves from an inland container depot in Uiwang, Gyeonggi Province, Sept. 13, a day before unionized rail workers are set to go on a general strike. Yonhap
Dia Nichols is the incoming president of Downers Grove, Ill.-based Advocate Health Care, a role in which he will oversee 11 Illinois hospitals, the system announced Sept. 13.

Mr. Nichols' appointment is effective Sept. 25. He will report to Bill Santulli, president of Advocate Health  Midwest. Mr. Santulli reports to Advocate Health Co-CEOs Jim Skogsbergh and Gene Woods. Mr. Nichols succeeds Dominica Tallarico in the role.

As Advocate Health Care president, Mr. Nichols will oversee 11 hospitals and 300 sites of care. He joined Advocate in 2021 as president of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, Ill., and the system's Central Chicagoland Patient Service Area.

Mr. Nichols previously served as president of AMITA Health  Alexian Brothers Medical Center in Elk Grove Village, Ill. Before then, he spent nearly 18 years with Nashville, Tenn.-based HCA Healthcare.

Advocate Health Care is part of Charlotte, N.C.-based Advocate Health, the third largest nonprofit health system in the U.S. formed by the merger of Advocate Aurora Health, headquartered in Downers Grove and Milwaukee, and Charlotte-based Atrium Health.
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is partnering with Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center to construct a freestanding inpatient cancer hospital in Boston.

Under the Dana-Farber Beth Israel Deaconess Cancer Collaboration, announced Sept. 14, each organization will remain fully independent. The proposed adult cancer hospital will operate under the license of Dana-Farber. BIDMC is affiliated with Harvard Medical Faculty Physicians, which includes more than 2,200 specialty physicians and advanced practice professionals.

Dana-Farber is currently affiliated with Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston for adult inpatient medical and surgical oncology care with the Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center. Dana-Farber moved its hospital into Brigham and Women's in 1997.

"We have deep respect and profound appreciation for our Brigham and Women's Hospital colleagues, and we are confident that we will continue to work together to provide an exceptional patient experience. This will continue for many years while we work on this transition," reads a Dana-Farber informational website about the new partnership with BIDMC.

Dana-Farber noted its joint program for pediatric cancer care with Boston Children's Hospital will continue without change.

The bed count of the new cancer hospital was not specified; it will be located adjacent to existing Dana-Farber and BIDMC facilities in the Longwood neighborhood of Boston.

A specific timeline of the Dana-Farber-BIDMC cancer partnership and the changes it entails was not provided in the announcement, although the systems said they anticipate "several years" of planning to finalize the operational model, obtain regulatory approvals and construct the inpatient hospital.
Over a 6-year period 25 percent of U.S. health visits were conducted by a non-physician, according to Harvard Medical School researchers.

Advanced care delivered by nurse practitioner and physician assistant roles first emerged in the 1960s, and now in 2023, nurse practitioner is the fastest growing career nationwide, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Physician assistants also landed on the list of the nation's fastest growing careers, taking the 17th spot.

For the study, which was published Sept. 14 in the British Medical Journal, researchers analyzed data from 276 million patient visits between 2013 and 2019 and found that during this time frame, there was an 89 percent increase in visits conducted by nurse practitioners and a 60 percent increase in visits conducted by physician assistants.

As the professions continue to grow, there has also been ongoing debate about whether or not the individuals who hold these credentials should be able to use the title of "Dr."

"The U.S. has fewer physicians per capita than most of our peer nations. Who is going to provide that care? The number of nurse practitioners and physician assistants has grown more quickly than the number of physicians," Ateev Mehrotra, MD, study co-author and professor of healthcare policy at Harvard Medical School, stated to Harvard Medicine News. "And this trend will only continue as we move forward Most of the research agrees that all three professions can do a good job delivering care in most settings, especially primary care. And it turns out that there is not a significant difference in spending. But there are clinical conditions that might be better suited to one profession or another."
US Special Economic Envoy Joe Kennedy III toured Biopax with Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris, where they met founder Terry Cross

US Special Envoy Joe Kennedy III has toured Belfast factories and met business leaders as part of his third official trip to Northern Ireland.

Mr Kennedy, who was appointed as the US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs last year, travelled to Northern Ireland earlier this week ahead of the NI Investment Summit.

As well as attending the event, Mr Kennedy also toured the facilities of two Belfast businesses.

Kicking off his trip, the US Special Envoy received a tour of Harland and Wolff shipyard where he met with Harland and Wolff chief executive, John Wood.

In a post on X, Mr Kennedy said he was delighted to start his visit at Belfasts shipyard and welcomed the opportunity to Harland and Wolff to discuss its cutting edge work in advanced manufacturing as well as its recent contracts.

In 2022 the shipbuilding and fabrication company announced it had secured a 1.6bn deal to build vessels for the Royal Navy.

Mr Wood said: It was my great pleasure to show our Belfast site to Mr Kennedy , highlighting the work undertaken here and the positive impact we are having on the local community and across Northern Ireland.

He added: The Investment Summit represents the perfect opportunity to emphasise the investment that we are making in Belfast, enabling high tech manufacturing at one of the largest dry docks in all of Europe. We also spoke about the important role our Islandmagee gas storage project can play in ensuring energy security for the UK and Ireland.

The east Belfast shipyard is one Europes largest heavy engineering facilities, with deep water access, and is home to two of Europes largest drydocks.

Accompanied by Secretary of State, Chris Heaton-Harris, Mr Kennedy also visited green packaging company Biopax.Together they toured the facility in west Belfast and met executives, customers and employees of the firm.

During his visit, Mr Kennedy commended Biopax for its substantial investment in the economy and the opportunities it has created.

The company, which was launched earlier this year, is based on an 8.4-acre site at Springvale Business Park in west Belfast and makes packaging and labels for sectors, including food service, retail, distribution, and beverages.

The business was founded by Dr Terry Cross OBE, an entrepreneur who also owns Hinch Distillery in Co Down. Dr Cross said: The presence of both Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris and US Economic Envoy Joe Kennedy on this occasion speaks volumes about the significance of our achievements and the promising potential that lies ahead.

Mr Heaton-Harris said: This visit coincides with the Northern Ireland Investment Summit where we have been celebrating the innovative spirit of companies and individuals within Northern Ireland. Biopax has enjoyed tremendous growth and this visit offered me the chance to see first-hand the operations and people who are central to the company

Mr Kennedy also attended the investment summit, which saw 800 delegates including over 200 global investors, converge at the ICC Belfast on Wednesday.
Elon Musk, chief executive of X, the company formerly known as Twitter, departs from a closed-door gathering of leading tech CEOs to discuss the priorities and risks surrounding artificial intelligence and how it should be regulated, at Capitol Hill in Washington (Jacquelyn Martin/AP)

US senators have heard from prominent technology executives and others in private on how to accomplish the potentially impossible task of passing bipartisan legislation within the next year that encourages the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and mitigates its biggest risks.

The closed-door forum on Capitol Hill convened by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer included almost two dozen tech executives, tech advocates, civil rights groups and labour leaders.

The guest list featured some of the industrys biggest names: Metas Mark Zuckerberg and X and Teslas Elon Musk as well as former Microsoft chief executive Bill Gates.

All 100 senators were invited; the public was not.

Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg, right, departs following a closed-door gathering of leading tech CEOs on Capitol Hill in Washington (Jacquelyn Martin/AP)

Mr Schumer (Democrat-New York) said more than 60 senators attended and that there was some broad consensus in building a foundation for bipartisan AI policy.

When he asked everyone in the room if government should have a role in regulating AI, every single person raised their hands, even though they had diverse views, he said.

Mr Schumer, who was leading the forum with Senator Mike Rounds (Republican-South Dakota), will not necessarily take the tech executives advice as he works with colleagues to try to ensure some oversight of the burgeoning sector.

But he is hoping they will give senators some realistic direction for meaningful regulation of the tech industry.

Tech leaders outlined their views, with each participant getting three minutes to speak on a topic of their choosing.

Mr Musk and former Google chief executive Eric Schmidt raised existential risks posed by AI, Mr Zuckerberg brought up the question of closed versus open source AI models and IBM chief executive Arvind Krishna expressed opposition to the licensing approach favoured by other companies, according to a person in attendance.

Mr Schumer said one of the issues discussed was whether there should be a new agency to regulate AI.

It was a very civilised discussion among some of the smartest people in the world, Mr Musk told reporters after leaving the meeting.

Elon Musk, chief executive of X, the company formerly known as Twitter, speaks to the media on Capitol Hill in Washington (Jacquelyn Martin/AP)

He said there is clearly some strong consensus.

Some senators were critical of the private meeting, arguing that tech executives should give evidence in public.

Senator Josh Hawley (Republican-Missouri) said he would not attend what he said was a giant cocktail party for big tech.

Mr Hawley has introduced legislation with Senator Richard Blumenthal (Democrat-Connecticut) to require tech companies to seek licences for high-risk AI systems.

I dont know why we would invite all the biggest monopolists in the world to come and give Congress tips on how to help them make more money and then close it to the public, Mr Hawley said.

Congress has a lacklustre track record when it comes to regulating technology, and the industry has grown mostly unchecked by government in the past several decades.

Many legislators point to the failure to pass any legislation surrounding social media, such as for stricter privacy standards.

We dont want to do what we did with social media, which is let the techies figure it out, and well fix it later, Senate Intelligence Committee chairman Mark Warner (Democrat-Virginia) said about the AI push.

Microsoft founder Bill Gates arrives on Capitol Hill (J Scott Applewhite/AP)

Mr Schumer said regulation of artificial intelligence will be one of the most difficult issues we can ever take on, and he listed some of the reasons why: it is technically complicated, it keeps changing and it has such a wide, broad effect across the whole world, he said.

But his bipartisan working group  Mr Rounds and senators Martin Heinrich (Democrat-New Mexico) and Todd Young (Republican-Indiana)  is hoping the rapid growth of artificial intelligence will create more urgency.

Mr Rounds said before the forum that Congress needs to get ahead of fast-moving AI by making sure it continues to develop on the positive side while also taking care of potential issues surrounding data transparency and privacy.

AI is not going away, and it can do some really good things or it can be a real challenge, Mr Rounds said.

Sparked by the release of ChatGPT less than a year ago, businesses across many sectors have been clamouring to apply new generative AI tools that can compose human-like passages of text, program computer code and create novel images, audio and video.

The hype over such tools has accelerated worries over its potential societal harms and prompted calls for more transparency in how the data behind the new products is collected and used.

Some concrete proposals have already been introduced, including legislation by Senator Amy Klobuchar (Democrat-Minnesota) that would require disclaimers for AI-generated election ads with deceptive imagery and sounds.

Mr Hawley and Mr Blumenthals broader approach would create a government oversight authority with the power to audit certain AI systems for harms before granting a licence.

Alphabet/Google chief executive Sundar Pichai departs following a closed-door gathering of leading tech CEOs in Washington (Jacquelyn Martin/AP)

In the United States, major tech companies have expressed support for AI regulations, though they do not necessarily agree on what that means.

Microsoft has endorsed a licensing approach, for instance, while IBM prefers rules that govern the deployment of specific risky uses of AI rather than the technology itself.

I think its important that government plays a role, both on the innovation side and building the right safeguards, and I thought it was a productive discussion, Google chief executive Sundar Pichai said after leaving the forum.

Many members of Congress agree that legislation is needed, but there is little consensus.

I am involved in this process in large measure to ensure that we act, but we dont act more boldly or over-broadly than the circumstances require, Mr Young said.

We should be sceptical of government, which is why I think its important that you got Republicans at the table.

Some of those invited to Capitol Hill, including Mr Musk and Sam Altman, chief executive of ChatGPT maker OpenAI, have signalled more dire concerns evoking popular science fiction about the possibility of humanity losing control to advanced AI systems if the right safeguards are not in place.

But for many legislators and the people they represent, AIs effects on employment and navigating a flood of AI-generated misinformation are more immediate worries.

Senator Mike Rounds at the Capitol in Washington (J Scott Applewhite/AP)

Mr Rounds said he would like to see the empowerment of new medical technologies that could save lives and allow medical professionals to access more data.

That topic is very personal to me, Mr Rounds said, after his wife died of cancer two years ago.

Some Republicans have been wary of following the path of the European Union, which signed off in June on the worlds first set of comprehensive rules for artificial intelligence.

The EUs AI Act will govern any product or service that uses an AI system and classify them according to four levels of risk, from minimal to unacceptable.

A group of European corporations has called on EU leaders to rethink the rules, arguing that it could make it harder for companies in the 27-nation bloc to compete with rivals overseas in the use of generative AI.
A trade union has warned time is running out to avert school strikes later this month (Dominic Lipinski/PA)

Unions have warned time is running out to avert strike action by school support staff after rejecting the latest insulting pay offer from local government employers.

GMB Scotland has rejected the latest pay offer put to unions on Wednesday by the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (Cosla) that it said would provide at least a 1,929 increase in annual salary for workers by January 1, 2024.

But the offer has been dismissed as far too little, far too late by the GMB.

The union, which represents more than 21,000 workers across Scotlands 32 councils, said strikes involving cleaning, janitorial, catering and pupil support will now go ahead without a revised offer and urged ministers to intervene.

Scotlands largest public sector union, Unison, also rejected the pay deal which it claimed was an increase of just 0.01 per hour or 0.17% on the previous offer.

Keir Greenaway, GMB Scotland senior organiser in public services, said: The latest offer is no significant improvement on the previous offer that was overwhelmingly rejected.

Strike action is not something our members ever take lightly, but after a long, frustrating process, they have been left with no choice.

This offer, like the previous offer, does not come close to maintaining the value of their wages as prices rise. It is far too little and far too late.

Why should local authority workers in Scotland be offered less than in England? Why should they be asked to accept the unacceptable?

If Cosla does not have the resource or the will to properly protect the wages of some of the countrys most important workers, then the Scottish Government needs to intervene and intervene urgently.

Strike action is still poised to go ahead from September 26-28.

Unison Scotland head of local government Johanna Baxter said: It is deeply disappointing that it has taken Cosla five months since our members rejected the initial offer to present such insignificant changes.

We have made very clear that Cosla must put forward a significantly improved offer to avert mass school strikes. Members of our local government committee this morning described this offer as insulting.

Cosla said the pay offer currently on the table will cost councils just under half a billion pounds.

Its resource spokeswoman, Katie Hagmann, said the offer was strong, and added: I am doubly disappointed today, firstly with the rejection itself, but perhaps more importantly with the fact that they did not take the revised offer to their membership for consideration.

We have continued to conduct these negotiations in good faith and kept communication channels open at all times.

We absolutely value all our local government workforce and throughout these negotiations council leaders have reiterated the value we place on the workforce and the work that they do.

That is why we enhanced an already strong offer yesterday, with council leaders going to the absolute limits of what local government can afford. The simple fact of the matter is that we have no more money available for pay without real cuts to jobs and services.

It must be remembered that we are talking about a pay package worth over 440 million, specifically targeted at the lower end of our workforce. A pay package which not only compares well to other sectors but recognises the cost-of-living pressures on our workforce and which would mean the lowest paid would see a 21% increase in their pay over a two-year period.

I am disappointed with todays rejection. However, we will continue to engage as positively as we can with the trade onions as strike action is in nobodys interests.

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: Local government pay negotiations are a matter for local authorities as employers and unions.

The Scottish Government and Cosla have committed to respect this negotiating arrangement as part of the Verity House Agreement.

Despite UK Government cuts, the Scottish Government has provided a further 155 million in 2023-24 to support a meaningful pay rise for local government workers, which has been taken into account in the pay offer made by Cosla.

We continue our engagement with Cosla on how staff and services are supported this year and next.
Sir Kenneth Branaghs latest film, A Haunting In Venice, is not for the faint-hearted, but according to a new review from The Times, its not really for anyone.

The newspaper gives Branaghs latest Poirot instalment a two-star rating, deeming it as glum and the Northern Ireland natives weakest yet in the series, stating that theyve killed the fun that comes with Agatha Christies renowned detective stories.

Despite starring Hollywood hitters such as Tina Fey and Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh, The Times also says that the movies star wattage has been dialled down considerably.

The murder mystery also features Co Down actors Jamie Dornan and Jude Hill, who both starred in the directors semi-autobiographical Oscar winner Belfast, and again play father and son in this adaptation, but they dont seem to be provide any redeeming qualities for the film according to the reviewer.

However, the main cause for concern, according to the reviewer, is Branaghs moustache and hair.

"The film, a version of Christies 1969 novel Halloween Party, is set in 1947 Venice, where the moustache belonging to Branaghs ace detective Hercule Poirot is a rich chocolatey brown colour, writes Kevin Maher.

"And yet in Branaghs first Christie adaptation, Murder on the Orient Express, set in 1934, Poirots moustache was already a stark snowy grey, with matching flecks of silver on his oily bonce. Its distracting and foregrounds unhelpful questions about star vanity, Branaghs ego and continuity gaffes.

Watch: A Haunting In Venice official trailer

Other commentators though, have highly praised the upcoming eerie thriller, with it receiving a score 81% on the Rotten Tomatoes review website, thus setting a new record for the franchise.

The score puts it comfortably above 2017's Murder on the Orient Express (61%) and last year's Death on the Nile (62%).

One critic for Empire magazine writes of A Haunting in Venice: It may be too tame for horror fans, but the gothic twist works remarkably well  even if everything else is business as usual for the Belgian detective.

Another film blogger states: Since he too is an actor, it is not surprising that Branagh the director gets great performances from other actors.

Jamie Dornan stars as Dr Leslie Ferrier in A Haunting in Venice (Rob Youngson/PA)

Carson Timar of the Clapper podcast hailed it as a fantastic Halloween murder mystery describing it as easily Kenneth Branaghs best Hercule Poirot feature to date.

With incredible visuals, a brooding haunting tone, and a satisfying conclusion, this has all the elements to be a yearly tradition #AHauntingInVenice, he posted on social media.

Varietys Jazz Tangcay posted: A Haunting in Venice is Another brilliant and thrilling whodunnit from Kenneth Branagh.

Loved the Belfast reunion with Jude Hill and Jamie Dornan.

Hildur Gunadottirs score is chilling and the crafts, especially production design, shine.

The film sees things go horribly wrong when detective Poirot attends a seance held by psychic Mrs. Reynolds, played by Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh, at a decaying palazzo in post Second World War Venice.

Ariadne Oliver, played by Tina Fey, doesnt believe in psychics and manages to convince detective Poirot to take part in the spiritual ceremony with her to spot the con I cant.

The latest film, also starring Kyle Allen, Camille Cottin and Kelly Reilly, is set to hit cinemas across the UK and Ireland on Friday, September 15.
Richard Curtis has said he turned to Al Pacinos locker room speech from his film Any Given Sunday for his new project as he feels the world needs the greatest half-time talk to get back on track to achieve its goals on the environment and inequality.

The Love Actually and Notting Hill filmmaker has paired the famous lines from the 1999 movie alongside a series of images of wildlife destruction and emergency efforts in disaster zones to bring attention to the UNs Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) reaching their halfway mark.

The SDGs are a collection of 17 targets agreed on by world leaders in 2015 which aim to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all by 2030.

However, only 15% of the goals are on track to be met by the deadline due to the impact of Covid, conflict and the climate crisis delaying progress, according to campaigners.

Curtis told the PA news agency that Al Pacinos speech felt like the right way to convey the urgency of this message as it has always inspired him.

We came up with this concept of needing the greatest half-time talk, the world needs a half-time talk to change its direction, and I thought I wonder if we can go to that speech and use it, he said.

He explained that after contacting Pacino, the Hollywood star agreed for the speech to be used and recorded a new introduction for the project.

The filmmaker hopes to convey that the SDGs are targets which individuals and world powers can work towards.

This is particularly a moment where individuals, particularly on climate, and on finance, and on the use of their money, can make a big difference, he said.

And then we move, as it were, across the chain. Were asking people in business, were asking people in finance, were asking everyone in politics. Its a partnership between the average citizen, who can make a difference.

He noted that consumers can make everyday changes in their lives to work towards the targets, such as not buying plastics or clothes from sweatshops and not utilising banks which are funding fossil fuel expansion.

Curtis also reflected on how world leaders play a significant role in countries meetings these goals, with the film being released days before leaders gather at the UN General Assembly in New York on September 20.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is under pressure to act (Aaron Chown/PA)

Asked what message he hopes the film sends to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, he said: I think there are a lot of messages for Mr Sunak.

The UK still has a strong position. It is one of the governors of the World Bank, so one of them is to use that.

The second thing is not to pull back on international development and our contributions to the banks.

The other thing is to use Government to make our strictures, as far as climate, as rigorous as they possibly can to appreciate the size of that crisis. Youre asking him to take an international perspective.

He added that the UK has a epic tradition of international responsibility, having been the birthplace of charities such as Oxfam and Save The Children, and that the campaign calls on the country to re-strength and recommit at this halfway stage.

The filmmaker, who co-founded Comic Relief with Sir Lenny Henry in 1985, helped start Project Everyone in 2015 to publicise the SDGs and is now a UN advocate for meeting them.

Curtis said he feels there has been a change in perspective across the generations as he has realised his three children who are in their 20s see areas like climate, race and gender as systemic issues while he initially focused on individual poverty and tragedy.

I think, particularly during lockdown, and with the Black Lives Matter, and the MeToo movement and Fridays For Future, I very strongly feel theres a generational desire to solve the big structural problems, rather than simply, as it were, wait for a crisis and then solve that crisis, he added.

Curtis short film is out now ahead of the UN General Assembly in New York on September 20.
President Yoon Suk Yeol speaks during an event hosted by the Presidential Committee for Decentralization and Balanced Development at Busan International Finance Center, Thursday. At the event, Yoon announced a set of policies to decentralize the country's capital region by further developing provincial areas. Courtesy of Presidential Office



Firms move to provincial areas to receive various incentives



By Ko Dong-hwan



The government has unveiled a range of policies to help reduce the country's overdependence on Seoul and its surrounding areas, and achieve a balanced national development by encouraging companies to move to provincial areas and establish advanced educational, residential and cultural infrastructure outside the capital city, according to officials, Thursday.



Presided over by President Yoon Suk Yeol, the Presidential Committee for Decentralization and Balanced Development held an event at Busan International Finance Center to announce a policy vision and strategies for fostering provincial areas. Some 200 guests attended the gathering, including mayors and governors, entrepreneurs, young farmers in agricultural and fishery industries, as well as people living in remote regions.



The committee has five key goals: boost local authorities with fewer strings attached to the central government; reform education to nurture local workforces; create more local jobs through innovative restructuring; maximize unique characteristics of regional economies; and improve local welfare with customized everyday lifestyle.



To realize the goals, the committee has announced nine core policies with two leading ones. One of the two is creating more jobs in remote regions.



So far, job-oriented special districts have been designated nationwide but turned out to be less fruitful than originally anticipated. The committee has pointed out this is because the planning, penned mostly by the central government, hasn't taken into account "local" needs enough and thus failed to attract enough companies. Incentives offered by the central authorities were also insignificant in effect and provisioned only during a beginning phase of post-designation rather than extending to the medium or longer term.



The new plan will improve the incentives to an unprecedented level, according to the committee. Local citizens in the new job-centered districts will see a wider range of taxes exemptions, deregulation unfolding on a deeper level and subsidies pumping in more strongly. The committee said at least 10 such incentives will be rolled out to spur regional development.





President Yoon Suk Yeol, right, shakes hands with North Gyeongsang Province Governor Lee Cheol-woo at an event hosted by the Presidential Committee for Decentralization and Balanced Development at Busan International Finance Center, Thursday. Next to the governor are Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, second from left, and Busan Mayor Park Heong-joon, third from left. Courtesy of Presidential Office
What do you do when youve been made redundant from a job you love in your fifties  read a thriller or, better still, write one? Books had always been my consolation and I reached for them at a moment of desolation in my life. I had worked in broadcasting for 27 years, the last 17 of them for the BBC doing a job I had worked hard to get, and which gave me immense satisfaction.

It was a time of recession, and there seemed no possibility of securing a job of similar scope in the small media world that is Northern Ireland. I had hit a wall in terms of my career and my life.

In the first year of my redundancy, on dark winter mornings I was woken at my usual time by the wave of adrenaline which had once propelled me out of bed to jog on icy footpaths and into the office by 9am but which had now turned to the acid of anxiety.

Once the rest of the family had left the house for work and school, I would attempt to find distraction in a book, desperate to soak up the mental energy I had previously focused on my job.

Id been an avid reader since my childhood but in my state of agitation, literary fiction just didnt cut it and my own, maudlin thoughts kept intruding. In despair I reached for something stronger and darker, and I dont mean chocolate  no, I needed dark deeds and avenging angels  I needed liars and betrayers tracked down relentlessly and punished. I needed plot, immersive mood and to be in the safe hands of a writer in total control of their craft.

Thats when I picked up a Michael Connelly book and met Harry Bosch.

The Desire Line by Jane Cassidy

Oh, the relief of being inside someone elses head for a blessed hour each morning. I was like a chain smoker, lighting one fag from the other  ensuring I had another Michael Connelly lined up before finishing the last. I discovered there were other writers who could work the same magic.

I revelled in the absolutist universe of Lee Child, hearing the crack of bones as Jack Reacher put the world to rights in some back alley Stateside.

I progressed to the glorious creepiness of domestic noir in the books of Ruth Rendell and Sophie Hannah where sleepy suburbia is alive with mystery and skulduggery. I was addicted and like all addicts was spending a lot of money buying thrillers  money I felt guilty about spending on myself since I was no longer earning.

It was time to try some DIY, as in have a go at writing one myself. I reasoned that this at least might take more time than simply reading, something I seemed to have too much of. At this point I should warn aspiring writers that this is not a quick fix if your goal is to be a published author. It wasnt even a quick fix for my existential crisis, but it helped immensely.

A decade on Im convinced the act of writing probably offers many of the benefits of meditation  something Ive never managed to master.

To write, I have to slow down my thoughts, create a world for my characters to inhabit then record how they react to the circumstances I invent for them.

It is an utterly absorbing activity. Put simply, I wrote my way out of trouble.

There were other consolations in my life of course.

I did find employment again, if only short-term contracts and part-time working in the arts which I adored and the pain of leaving the BBC family gradually faded.

I started singing again, first in a choir then solo as I had done when I was younger. But writing became core to my health and happiness.

Someone recently asked me if Im disciplined about my writing and do it every day. I got an odd look when I said I didnt need to be disciplined since I was now addicted to it and miss it terribly if I dont do it. That, of course is only partially true.

The initial act of creation is the best bit. I sit with my feet up at my bay window and scribble in long-hand in a large notebook.

I know no-one will ever read this first draft so I dont sweat it  I enjoy it. From there on discipline is required to re-write and edit till all is no more. Thats the hard part! But I do love having it to do  the sense of purpose.

I was ambitious for my writing from the start though I didnt admit that to anyone  least of all myself. I wonder if Id known then it would take me 10 years to get a publishing deal if Id have persevered? I think I probably would  I enjoy it so much.

And this story, The Desire Line, Ive written which finally got me a book deal is about the short-cuts people sometimes take to the object of their desire and the harm they do to others in the process.

One of my central characters practises the Wicca religion  witchcraft to you and me. She believes in the power of three, where every negative thought or action will be returned to us by the power of three.

Shes a shape-shifter  an unreliable witness to her own life, leaving the reader unsure if she is victim or villain until the story nears its denouement.

But fear not, for I want you to meet and fall for my sleuth, Jer (Jeremiah McCabe), an investigative journalist and film-maker, not a detective.

But I guarantee youll trust him  trust his good nature and his loyalty to those he loves. Youll love him for his flaws, the way I do  for his flakiness at work and his tenderness towards his troubled wife, for hes the good guy, determined to protect the vulnerable and see justice done. I like being in Jers head. You might too!

The Desire Line is Jane Cassidys first novel and is published by Poolbeg Press
Royal Caribbean International has announced it will be expanding its air offering from Belfast City Airport for summer 2024.

Guests departing for a Royal Caribbean ship from Belfast next summer will now have the opportunity to fly direct to Barcelona in Spain or Bologna in Italy.

With support of Belfast City Airport, the enhanced flight programme will make direct flights available for guests sailing onboard Oasis and Explorer of the Seas cruises.

Direct flights to Barcelona will be available from May 5 to September 22, while flights to Bologna will be taking place from May 18 to October 26.

Stuart Byron, director of sales for UK, Ireland and Spain at Royal Caribbean International, said: Were excited to be able to extend our offering for 2024.

The aim of charters is to make it as quick and straightforward as possible for guests to join our ships in both Barcelona and Ravenna. With the time saved, guests can now jump straight into planning their onboard adventures and be ready to make life-long memories.

Ellie McGimpsey, Aviation Development Manager at Belfast City Airport, commented: Royal Caribbeans fantastic customer service and value, coupled with Belfast City Airports speedy security times and excellent location, only five minutes from Belfast city centre, means cruise ship passengers will enjoy a convenient and smooth trip.
A GP currently suspended over comments about the Covid-19 vaccine appeared in court today accused of breaching Covid rules.

Dr Anne McCloskey was suspended by an independent medical tribunal in 2021 following controversial remarks she made about children taking Covid-19 vaccines.

Today at Coleraine Magistrates Court, the 66-year-old, from Chapel Road in Londonderry, was charged, alongside three other people  Liam Henry Back (60), of Islandmagee Road in Whitehead; Alanna Lavery (43), of Battery Road in Cookstown; John William Stewart (62), of Ringsend Road in Limavady  with two counts of breaching Covid regulations on March 20, 2021.

With each of the defendants representing themselves, Dr McCloskey told District Judge Peter King there would be defence applications in relation to the charges and the jurisdiction of the court.

The Derry doctor told the judge that, during another hearing, witnesses had been excluded from the court, and said that justice must be seen to be done, that exclusion was unconscionable.

You will get a fair trial. That is a guarantee, Judge King assured the defendants.

Regarding the progress of the case and defence applications, Judge King said he was happy to receive skeleton arguments, either from each of the defendants or combined into a single argument.

He said that once the Public Prosecution Service had had an opportunity to consider those and reply, he would be more than happy to facilitate a hearing with oral submissions.

With a timetable set for submissions and reply, Judge King adjourned the case to Friday, November 10.

In August 2021, Dr McCloskey expressed concerns in a social media video about young people taking Covid-19 vaccinations.

The following month, a GMC tribunal imposed an 18-month suspension after her comments attracted a number of complaints.

The GMC is seeking to extend Dr McCloskeys suspension  a matter that is currently before the High Court in Belfast.
The car in which three IRA men were shot dead by the SAS in Coagh, Co Tyrone, in 1991

A certificate of default is to be issued against a former soldier refusing to appear at an inquest into the deaths of three IRA men in an alleged shoot-to-kill operation, a High Court judge has ruled.

The British Army veteran could now face potential punishment by a court in Scotland for defying a subpoena to attend the tribunal examining the circumstances surrounding the fatal SAS ambush.

He was part of a special military unit involved in an operation which led to the deaths of Peter Ryan, Tony Doris and Lawrence McNally at Coagh, Co Tyrone in June 1991.

The three men were intercepted on suspicion of planning to murder a member of the security forces.

Relatives of the deceased have alleged that soldiers unlawfully opened fire and intended to kill.

An ongoing inquest into their deaths is examining whether the use of lethal force was justified.

Granted anonymity and referred to as Soldier F, the ex-serviceman helped plan the operation and discharged his weapon at the scene.

Earlier this year the coroner ruled that he should give oral evidence because of his importance in dealing with issues central to the inquest.

Despite providing a witness statement, Soldier F made it clear that he would not appear voluntarily to testify and face cross-examination.

He denies any wrongdoing but expressed concern that he could be referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions and ultimately face criminal proceedings.

With the inquest in its closing stages, two High Court judges have already endorsed moves to have him compelled to attend.

Last month the coroner asked for a certificate of default to be transmitted to the Court of Session in Edinburgh over his refusal to comply with the subpoena.

Counsel for Soldier F argued that it should not be issued due to the risk he would be prejudiced at any future hearings.

He told the court his client will not attend the inquest under any circumstances, after receiving legal advice about the possible ramifications.

However, Mr Justice Scoffield said: It remains to be seen whether Soldier F remains steadfast in that position if there is a more immediate prospect of punishment for contempt.

Even assuming that his position remains unchanged, it cannot be the case that Soldier F can avoid contempt proceedings at this stage simply on the basis of continued expressed unwillingness to comply with his legal obligation.

He also rejected submissions that any contempt hearing in Scotland would be unfair because the veteran could be subjected to imprisonment, unlike the 1,000 fine available in Northern Ireland.

No risk of serious prejudice to his right to a fair trial in any future proceedings has been established, the judge held.

Mr Justice Scoffield confirmed: I intend to issue a certificate of the default of Soldier F under the seal of the High Court and I will direct that this be transmitted to the Court of Session in Edinburgh.
Christopher OKane, from Co Londonderry, allegedly refused to have an electronic tag fitted while on bail

Christopher OKane appears at Ballymena Court on Monday. He is charged with possessing documents or records likely to be useful to terrorists and possession of articles for use in terrorism. Credit: Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker

An IT expert granted bail on terror charges linked to a major PSNI data breach was stupefied on medication when he allegedly refused to have an electronic tag fitted, the High Court heard.

Christopher OKane was returned to custody for the suspected breach which occurred within hours of obtaining initial release on Tuesday.

But a judge ruled the 50-year-old can be bailed again after being told he showed no hostility towards security company staff who called at his home to install the monitoring device.

Mr Justice Humphreys warned: This court will not tolerate breach of these conditions and I expect full compliance.

OKane, of Main Street in Feeny, Co Londonderry, is accused of having a spreadsheet containing the names of every member of the PSNI.

He faces charges of possessing two mobile phones for use in terrorism and documents likely to be useful to terrorists.

The data breach occurred on August 8, when personal information on all serving PSNI members and civilian staff was mistakenly published in response to a Freedom of Information request.

Details released included the surname and first initial of every employee, their rank or grade, and department. Home addresses were not revealed.

Days later it was confirmed that dissident republicans had accessed the information.

OKanes home was searched on August 18 as part of the police response.

Prosecutors claimed he tried to conceal one phone, while a second mobile was located under a bedroom pillow.

Examinations established the spreadsheet had been sent to one of the devices by WhatsApp message and downloaded before the message was deleted.

With the information still accessible offline, a Crown lawyer described OKane as someone highly efficient in technology who had allegedly tried to wipe his digital footprint.

Sections of the material sent to his phone were said to have been highlighted, including those featuring senior executive teams in the PSNI and officers based in the Derry area.

Two other individual officers were also highlighted: one who had multiple dealings with OKane and another previously targeted in a dissident republican bomb attack.

Within hours of receiving the WhatsApp message, he allegedly accessed a website used to search for residential addresses.

Defence lawyers argued that OKane deleted the file and is no risk to any police officers.

Barrister Joe Brolly described him as a computer geek who wrongly became a suspect just because of his affiliations to Irish republicanism.

The court heard OKane worked as an IT consultant and acted as administrator for websites run by Irish republican political grouping Saoradh and the Irish Republican Prisoners Welfare Association.

On Tuesday he was granted High Court bail under strict conditions, including a requirement for electronic monitoring.

But he allegedly refused to comply with G4S staff who called out to fit the tag that night.

Disputing claims that OKane had been too drowsy or incoherent to cooperate, prosecution counsel argued instead that he was obstructive.

This is an attempt to mislead the court (about) what occurred at Mr OKanes address, she submitted.

However, Mr Brolly insisted the accused did not expect G4S to call out so late at night and had resumed his medication for a range of medical issues before going to bed.

He was in a stupefied state when they arrived, he was monosyllabic, the barrister contended.

He is absolutely willing to be tagged, it doesnt make any sense otherwise.

As OKane appeared remotely from custody, his partner gave evidence to explain that the medication had left him in a confused state.

Describing the events as unsatisfactory, Mr Justice Humphreys decided the defendant can be released again on bail.

I have heard from his partner that there was no hostility, abuse or outright non-compliance, but rather difficulties Im prepared to accept were perhaps caused by the medication he takes, the judge said.

Imposing the same conditions, he instructed OKanes legal representative to provide confirmation once the electronic tag is fitted.
A judge today ordered that a Co Tyrone man who urinated in public at an airport and flashed his genitals at police will have to sign the sex offenders register.

Lawyers for Gavin Goodfellow had argued that the 27-year-olds offences at Belfast International Airport were not sexually motivated, so it was unfair for him to have to sign the register as a sex offender.

The Crown contended, however, that the legislation was clear and logical in that the notification requirements flowed depending on the sentence imposed.

This time last year, Goodfellow, of Edendoit Road in Pomeroy, was ordered to do 100 hours of community service and sign the sex offenders register for five years after he admitted indecent behaviour and exposure at Belfast International Airport on June 22 last year.

The court heard at that stage how staff at a cafe in Aldergrove called the PSNI for help regarding a male passenger who was intoxicated, falling off a chair and bothering staff and passengers.

Having identified Goodfellow, he claimed he was booked on a flight to Ibiza. However, staff at the check-in desk confirmed he had earlier been refused boarding because he was too drunk to fly.

Goodfellow was told to leave, with police staying in the area in case he either hurt himself or tried to get back in. But a short time later, he was again trying to enter the check-in hall, claiming he had managed to book a flight. Again, check-in staff confirmed there was no such booking.

Escorted from the building, the defendant continued to remain in the area and tried to get back in, before he went to a nearby hedge where taxis and buses were parked, pulled down the front of his shorts and began urinating, the court was told.

Warned by the police about his behaviour, Goodfellow tried to get back into the airport building, claiming he needed to use the toilet. When he was again warned about urinating in public, he started to laugh at police, turned slightly, pulled his shorts down and grabbed his genitals.

Police shouted at him to stop, but he repeated the gesture. There were members of the public in the area at the time, said the lawyer.

Since Goodfellow was sentenced 12 months ago, the case has been repeatedly and frequently mentioned in the County Appeal Court as his lawyer sought to argue Goodfellow should not be forced to sign the sex offenders register.

It [the offending] was not motivated or to obtain sexual gratification and he does not pose a risk to society, Goodfellows barrister told the court today, highlighting that if Goodfellow had been given an 11-month probation order, he would not be on the register.

The only reason he was not given probation, the lawyer argued, was because the pre-sentence report did not identify any areas where he needed help or support.

Ruling on the arguments, Judge Roseanne McCormick KC went through the legislation relating to sex offences under the NI Justice Order and, refusing the defence applications, told the court it was clear the requirements for the sex offenders register is triggered by the threshold of disposal.

The sentence imposed  100 hours community service  was not being appealed, so Goodfellow having to sign the sex offenders register for five years is an automatic consequence of the sentence.
Craig Rowland (28), of Millington Park, Portadown, appeared at Belfast Crown Court for an arraignment hearing.

When the charge of murdering Lewis Oliver Rowland was put to him by the court clerk, Rowland replied: Not guilty.

He further denied a charge of the manslaughter of his son on the same date, October 20, 2018.

However, Rowland pleaded guilty to a charge of child cruelty on November 20, 2015, in that he wilfully neglected Lewis Oliver Rowland in a manner likely to cause unnecessary suffering or injury to health.

The childs mother, Laura Graham (31), also of Millington Park, Portadown, appeared at the arraignment hearing via videolink from her solicitors office.

She also pleaded guilty to the single charge she faced of child cruelty on the same date.

Mr Justice OHara directed the probation service provide a pre-sentence report on Graham.

A prosecution lawyer told the court that a trial will be required for Craig Rowland on the charges he denied.

Defence counsel Seamus McNeill KC said, over the summer, eight experts had been identified and were contacted, but, as yet, we have [not] had any reply from them.

Mr Justice OHara told the senior counsel: Your solicitor needs to send an email to each of those experts. It is not remotely good enough to come in here and say you have contacted eight people and you have not had a reply. It is just not good enough.

The case will reviewed again in two weeks time. I want answers.

No date for the trial was set. Craig Rowland was released on continuing bail ahead of the review on Wednesday, September 27.
A senior member of the PSNIs Terrorism Investigation Unit has told a court that a man arrested following the discovery of a weapons and explosives haul in Derry last week is now under threat from dissident republicans.

But the officer also described defendant John Kelly, who is accused of having Soviet grenade heads, as a trusted member of the New IRA and thus objected to bail.

The police witness told Derry Magistrates Court that, following the discovery of the weapons and explosives during a three-day operation mounted by the police against the New IRA, one of the three people arrested, Kelly (43), of Columbcille Court in the Bogside area of the city, may be in danger of retaliatory actions from dissident republicans.

Kelly, who was arrested during the police operation, appeared in court charged with possessing two Soviet grenade heads with intent to endanger life, as well as a quantity of plastic explosives and two electric detonators.

Hes also charged with possessing the items under suspicious circumstances.

Read more Despite being dealt another blow, dissidents still pose a major threat in Northern Ireland

The defendant has also been charged with possessing a Browning short-barrel firearm and a Tokarev barrel firearm with intent to endanger life and under suspicious circumstances.

During his sight-linked remand hearing from Musgrave Police Station in Belfast, the defendant refused to answer questions about his name, age and address put to him by the court clerk.

Objecting to bail, the detective inspector told District Judge Barney McElholm that police believe the controller of the weapons recovered is John Kelly, who is utilising his own family members to both store and move weaponry on behalf of the New IRA.

The officer added: It is assessed he holds a position of dominance over family members and has exploited them to further his actions.

Earlier this week, the defendants brother Gerard Kelly (48), of Victoria Place, and niece Shannon Kelly (26), of Creevagh Heights, both in Derry, appeared before the same court charged with offences linked to the discoveries.

Gerard Kelly was remanded in custody and his daughter Shannon was released on conditional bail.

The detective inspector said the case against the defendant involved forensic evidence, witness statements and mobile phone evidence. He said that across nine interviews, totalling more than five hours, the defendant made no comment and gave no explanation.

He has manipulated family members, therefore his family support is diminished. He brought his own son along when carrying out these activities. Family members have made statements to the police. He is under threat, meaning, if granted bail, he is likely to flee for his own safety, added the detective inspector.

He is a trusted member of the New IRA and I believe he will continue to reoffend if granted bail.

Applying for bail, defence barrister Sean Doherty said the defendant maintains his innocence and denies any involvement.

Mr Doherty added: Nothing was found in his property when it was searched.

There are two strands to the case against him. One involves mobile phone contact with members of his family, but that can be easily explained given that the homes of his brother and niece were being searched by the police. The other strand is the integrity of the DNA analysis, which I, respectfully, submit is questionable, he said.

Refusing bail, District Judge McElholm said there was a clear prima facie case against the defendant.

Whether that develops into a conviction is a matter for another court at another time. There is DNA evidence still to be processed, he added.
DUP MLA Gary Middleton has criticised Ulster Universitys decision to drop usage of the Magee name when referring to its Londonderry campus.

BBC NI has reported that staff were instructed to stop using Magee in external communications via email.

The Foyle MLA said, The decision by UIster University to drop the use of the name Magee is an abandonment of nearly 180 years of history.

It appears to have been taken with no consultation with either staff, students or the wider community.

However, Ulster University denied there has been a name change and that it had instead decided to market the university based on its geographical location.

Recently, the university campus has been called Derry~Londonderry in marketing materials.

Their claim there has been no name change seems to be a further attempt to treat people like fools when they have instructed staff not to use that title, said Mr Middleton.

Corporate branding is obviously important to any organisation, but it shouldnt have to require the airbrushing of history.

The Magee campus got its name from Martha Magee, a philanthropist who bequeathed money in the mid-1800s to found a college of theology.

In June, it was announced that Ulster University would be getting almost 40m in investment from the Irish government to boost student numbers at its Derry campus.

The funding will help provide new lecture and seminar spaces, computer labs and student services. The development will also free up space in other buildings for teaching.

The new building is part of Ulster Universitys development plan to provide a campus that can increase student numbers in Derry to 6,500 and beyond.
Great paws: Teams from around the world are taking part in the trials

History has been made in Co Down after the World Sheepdog Trials got under way in Northern Ireland for the very first time on Wednesday.

Known as the Olympics of the sheepdog world, the trials are taking place at the Gill Hall Estate in Dromore.

The event will run until Saturday and more than 30,000 spectators are expected to attend over the course of the trials.

Some 240 sheepdogs are taking part in the trials, with more than 30 countries being represented.

Competitors from countries including South Africa, Brazil and Norway are battling it out to be named top dog in the team and individual competitions.

Tickets for the event can be purchased online via the World Sheepdog Trials official website.

The International Sheepdog Dog Society has held six world trials, which take place every three years.

Past countries to host the event include Wales, the Republic of Ireland and the Netherlands.

The last winner was a dog called Gin from Norway and handler Jaran Knive in 2017.

The event was postponed in 2020.
Building of Prosecutors Office / Newsis



Prosecutors on Thursday raided online news outlet Newstapa and cable channel JTBC in connection with their reporting of an alleged fake interview given in 2021 to discredit then opposition presidential candidate Yoon Suk Yeol.



The Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office sent prosecutors and investigators to Newstapa's office in central Seoul and JTBC's head office in western Seoul in the morning to seize materials related to their coverage of the interview on the eve of last year's presidential election.



At Newstapa, a confrontation occurred as the company refused to cooperate with the search and seizure warrant without the presence of its lawyer.



Prosecutors also raided the homes of a Newstapa reporter surnamed Han and a former JTBC reporter surnamed Bong.



The case centers on the allegations that Kim Man-bae, a suspect in the scandal-ridden Daejang-dong development project pushed in the mid-2010s by opposition leader Lee Jae-myung as the mayor of Seongnam, suggested in his interview with Newstapa-affiliated journalist Shin Hak-lim in September 2021 that Yoon was the mastermind behind the Daejang-dong scandal.



The interview was reported by Newstapa, JTBC and other media, beginning March 6, 2022, just three days before the presidential election, confusing voters. Kim paid 165 million won ($123,500) to Shin days after the interview but has dismissed it as a "private conversation," denying any intention to influence the presidential election. (Yonhap)


Peter Sheridan: We may never forget the past, but I hope we will be able to focus on building an inspiring future together for Northern Ireland

Former senior PSNI officer Peter Sheridan has been appointed as commissioner for investigations for the new Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR).

Mr Sheridan, who will start work in December, said he understood the need for people to be given information and closure.

His appointment comes just days after the controversial Legacy Bill was passed at Westminster.

In May Sir Declan Morgan was announced as chief commissioner for the ICRIR.

Sir Declan was tasked with leading the process to recruit a number of commissioners to head up the body, and the jobs were advertised shortly afterwards.

Peter Sheridan: Who is the man appointed to controversial Troubles legacy body?

Paying almost 150,000 a year, the first commissioner for investigations attracted applications from across the UK and Ireland.

The deadline was extended until June 1 to allow a panel of experts to be formed to carry out interviews.

The job advertisement called for the applicant to have a background in investigative work, putting the needs of those who request reviews at the heart of any process.

They will be able to draw on existing criminal or other complex investigatory processes, as well as developing new ones which focus on information recovery for victims, survivors and families.

Sources say Mr Sheridan, current CEO of Co-operation Ireland, was the outstanding candidate, with his background not just in policing, but his more recent work with marginalised communities.

A former assistant chief constable, Mr Sheridan was the highest ranking Catholic to serve with the PSNI when he retired in 2008 after 32 years service with it and the RUC.

His appointment to the new role was confirmed this morning, shortly after the news was broken by the Belfast Telegraph.

Mr Sheridan said: Ive spent the last 15 years working for an organisation that is dedicated to bringing peace and reconciliation to Northern Ireland  and before this, a substantial period of my career working to deliver law and order in our community.

"I am absolutely committed to carrying out this role without fear or favour and I fully expect everyone to hold me accountable to do this.

There is nothing I want more than to see people given the information and closure they need, using the full range of powers and tools that the Commission will be able to bring to this work, so that we can all move forward together.

"We may never forget the past, but I hope we will be able to focus on building an inspiring future together for Northern Ireland, for the sake of future generations.

Mr Sheridan is expected to start work in December, once prior commitments are completed.

He will be supporting Sir Declan engaging with key groups to ensure input from as wide a range of views as possible, as the Commission establishes its policies and procedures ahead of opening for requests from next summer.

Sir Declan said: Im delighted that this significant milestone has been reached in our work to establish the Commission.

"Peter brings a unique combination of professional investigative experience, a thorough appreciation of our context and an unrivalled track record of reaching across all aspect as of our community.

Mr Sheridan had been responsible for the Crime Operations Department, which investigated serious and organised crime and terrorism.

He was also heavily involved in sensitive negotiations around parades with the Apprentice Boys and nationalists in Derry.

Those talks resulted in an accommodation that facilitated a series of peaceful parades in Derry city centre for the first time in decades.

As CEO of Co-operation Ireland he played a significant role in facilitating the historic handshake between Martin McGuinness and Queen Elizabeth II. The charity strives to promote better relations between people on the island.

In June, Mr Sheridan was awarded a CBE for peacebuilding in the Kings Birthday Honours.

Despite his cross-community credentials, his appointment is still likely to attract criticism from victims organisations.

The controversial legislation, which provides a conditional amnesty for information received from those who committed Troubles-related crimes, has been universally condemned by victims, human rights groups and the US and Irish governments.

It will bring an end to not just criminal investigations, but also inquests, civil cases and Police Ombudsman probes.

After criticism that there had been insufficient consultation with victims, Lord Caine was tasked with overseeing its progress and a number of amendments were proposed, but only some passed the scrutiny of MPs.

In a recent interview with the Belfast Telegraph, Sir Declan said he would encourage legal challenges to the legislation to be lodged promptly with the High Court.
Residents were evacuated from Ten Square Hotel in Belfast city centre this evening following reports of a fire.

The issue came from a light on the fifth floor. Nobody was hurt and all residents were evacuated.

The incident is now being scaled down.

A Fire Service spokesperson said: The fire service was mobilised to the Ten Square Hotel this evening at 19.19pm to reports of a fire on the fifth floor.

There were four pumping appliances and one aerial appliance supported by other specialist officers and equipment.

No persons were involved and all residents were evacuated.

Crews investigated and determined there was smoke issuing from a low-voltage light.

They have isolated the power and are scaling down the incident.

Police had previously advised drivers to avoid the Donegall Square South and City Hall area of Belfast city centre as the PSNI assisted the Fire Service with the incident.
Former senior PSNI officer Peter Sheridan has been appointed as commissioner for investigations for the new Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR), but who exactly is the man who will help lead the contentious new investigative body?

Peter Sheridan: Who is the man appointed to controversial Troubles legacy body?

Police history and background

Mr Sheridan is from Co Fermanagh and attended St Michael's College in Enniskillen, which was a Catholic boys' school.

It wasn't a place where too many police officers came out of, he told the Belfast Telegraph back in 2014.

Nonetheless, he rose to the most senior ranks of the police before retiring after 32 years and heading up Co-operation Ireland.

He was the highest-ranking Catholic officer in the PSNI before his retirement, having joined the RUC in the 1970s, resulting in him living under consistent terrorist threat.

Read more Former senior PSNI officer handed key job in new Troubles legacy organisation

He also joined the force during one of the most difficult times during the Troubles, on the advice of a local priest at a time when only 5% of officers identified as Catholic.

It was 1975-76. Around 500 people had been murdered around this period, with the Kingsmill and Tullyvallen massacres also taking place at the hands of the IRA.

The republican paramilitary specifically targeted Mr Sheridan on two occasions, but he went on to rise to the position of deputy chief constable within the controversial constabulary.

His family were concerned for his safety, but his grandmother took a different view.

He explained: This whole discussion was going on and she said, Well, if hes meant to be shot, hell never be drowned, but strangely it made me think, maybe its meant to be and, when I look back, she was right.

When I joined, there was only 5% of the force Catholic and even among that 5% I suspect some were Catholic in name only.

When we were on the job, Catholic and Protestant never came into it, but the culture was, of course, very Protestant and there was a risk of losing your identity, I probably pushed against that, because I didnt want to lose who I was.

Co-Operation Ireland and peacebuilding

Mr Sheridan has been CEO of Co-Operation Ireland from 2008, an all-island peace-building organisation, which helped set up the handshake between the Queen and Martin McGuinness.

Speaking about that historic occasion, Mr Sheridan had said: The Queen and the President of Ireland Mary McAleese met in London in 2005, and that was a precursor to the State visit to Dublin.

In 2009 they came together at Hillsborough Castle celebrating 30 years of Co-Operation Ireland, as they are our patrons. We would have liked to see the meeting of the Queen and Sinn Fein happen during the State visit to Dublin, but they absented themselves - mistakenly, in my view.

The Queen came to Northern Ireland for her Diamond Jubilee, and we had an event at the Lyric Theatre around culture. We invited the Queen, Michael D Higgins and the First and Deputy First Ministers. It was a decision then for Sinn Fein. Did they keep saying no, or did they bite the bullet?

Mr Sheridan was also on hand when EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier visited the Irish border on a fact-finding mission.

In June of this year, he was awarded a CBE for peacebuilding in the Kings Birthday Honours, having previously received an OBE for his services to policing in the Queens 2007 Birthday Honours.

Previously describing what the Co-Operation Ireland charity is about, he said: It was founded in 1978 by Brendan O'Regan, a businessman from Co Clare who also founded Shannon Airport.

It was established on the basis of building mutual respect and understanding between people across the island of Ireland.

That is exactly what we're doing today. It isn't about putting territory together or creating a united Ireland in geographical terms, but we are about uniting people for mutual benefit.

Mr Sheridan has been present and involved in some of the most momentous moments in Northern Irelands recent history and has said that he always prides himself as being someone who sees things from the other side.

When asked nearly a decade ago, whether we are really closer to bringing people together within NI, he replied: If all of us are passionate about making this a better place - and I think we all are - we have to continue to work at it.

It was inconceivable that Martin McGuinness and Ian Paisley would share power, but it did happen. It is easy to get frustrated at the state of politics, but we shouldn't become disillusioned that it's not doable.
Emergency services attend the scene near Garnerville Park. Photo: Alan Lewis

Residents have been evacuated from their homes in east Belfast following the discovery of a suspicious object earlier today (Thursday, September 14).

The area of Glenlea Park in east Belfast remains closed from the junction of Garnerville Road and Glendhu Park.

The main Garnerville Road remains open at this time.

Road users are advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes for their journey.

PSNI said that Ammunition Technical Officers are in attendance and a number of residents have been evacuated from their homes.

More details to follow.
Formal offer was made by the Commander-in-Chief of the Dubai police force following a high-level meeting in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) earlier this month

Dubai police have offered to send an investigation team to Ireland to advance inquiries into the crime group led by Daniel Kinahan

An investigation team from the Dubai police service is set to travel to Ireland to help bring down the leaders of the Kinahan crime gang.

The Irish Independent has learned that the formal offer was made by the Commander-in-Chief of the Dubai police force following a high-level meeting in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) earlier this month.

The unprecedented level of cooperation between the security agencies marks a further significant development as part of international efforts to take down the murderous crime group.

Read more Garda chief Drew Harris meets Dubai Police boss as part of Kinahan cartel investigation

Commissioner Drew Harris yesterday said that the recent trip to Dubai was to develop the Gardas relationship with police there around the sharing of intelligence and evidence.

The Kinahan cartel leadership including Christy Kinahan and his two sons, Daniel and Christopher Jnr, are still based in Dubai along with several top-level associates.

Daniel Kinahan, his brother Christopher Jr and father Christy Sr

Speaking today Mr Harris said he had a very positive meeting with Commander-in-Chief, his excellency Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri.

The Commissioner also said there has been an exchange of letters and an understanding between the police forces but also said that he did not want to set out the next steps in the strategy around the Kinahan cartel.

The Irish Independent has learned that the letter was a formal offer of a bi-lateral agreement between the police services and was sent within 48 hours of Mr Harris visiting Dubai.

Dubai detectives set for Ireland in move to bring down Kinahan crime bosses

It included an offer that the Dubai police would send an investigation team to Ireland to advance inquiries into the Kinahan crime group, which was agreed to by the Garda Commissioner.

The recent high-level meeting was also attended by Assistant Commissioner Justin Kelly, in charge of Serious and Organised Crime, and was the first time the senior gardai had formally visited the UAE.

Senior police officers in charge of financial crime and money laundering investigations in Dubai also attended the meeting.

Mr Kelly had earlier held discussions with officers from the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) over investigations into the Kinahan leadership.

Last month a comprehensive investigate file was submitted to State prosecutors recommending that Daniel Kinahan be charged with directing an organised crime gang.

Daniel Kinahan

A large aspect of the case relies on compromised mobile communications with the offence, on conviction, carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Security services are also continuing to monitor the movements of Crumlin man Sean McGovern who is wanted here to face charges of murder and involvement in the plot to kill Hutch associate James Mago Gately.

McGovern, described as Daniel Kinahans closest confidant, is still believed to be in Dubai and work on his return to face charges before the Special Criminal Court is continuing.

While Ireland and the UAE have no formal extradition agreement, senior crime figures have previously been removed from the Emirate to countries where they are facing prosecution.

Last year the US Department of Treasury announced a combined $15 million reward for information leading to the dismantling of the Kinahan cartel leadership.

This included any assistance which would lead to the prosecution and conviction of Christy Kinahan Snr and his sons.

Detectives believe that Daniel Kinahan is responsible for running the day-to-day operations of the gang while his brother is in charge of its finances.
The Lyric Theatre in Northern Ireland is leading the UK Theatre Awards nominations alongside Sheffield Theatres, with five nods apiece.

Agreement, about the events leading up to the peace process, comes from Northern Irish playwright Owen McCafferty  and is up for best new play.

The production about the Good Friday Agreement, which has marked its 25th anniversary this year, features performers playing former secretary of state for Northern Ireland Mo Mowlam, former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams and ex-prime minister Tony Blair.

Enough Of Him, a National Theatre of Scotland and Pitlochry Festival Theatre co-production, and Young Vic Theatres Untitled F*** M*ss S**gon Play are also up for the same gong, UK Theatre Awards announced on Thursday.

Siobhan McSweeney, who won a Bafta for Derry Girls (Jeff Moore/PA)

Hannah Essex, co-chief executive of UK Theatre, said: We are incredibly proud to celebrate theatre across our four nations and the inspiring work of our UK Theatre members.

This years nominees are a reflection of the quality and diversity of talent, story-telling and community engagement that is needed now more than ever.

We would like to thank all our sponsors for supporting the event and offer our congratulations to all those nominated.

Tony Award winner Garry Hynes has also been nominated for best director at the Lyric for DruidOCasey, which brings together the work of Irish dramatist, Sean OCasey, into one play about rebellion and war.

The president of Ireland Michael D Higgins was among the attendees of the Druid Theatre Company-production based on The Plough And The Stars, The Shadow Of A Gunman, and Juno And The Paycock.

Hynes faces competition from Shakespeare North Playhouses Matthew Dunster and Jimmy Fairhurst for A Midsummer Nights Dream and Omar Elerian for As You Like It, a Royal Shakespeare Company production.

Also among the Lyrics nods is Propaganda: A New Musical, set in Berlin during the Cold War, for best design, Martin McDonagh play The Beauty Queen Of Leenane for best play revival and childrens musical Mirrorball for best show for children and young people.

Tony winning director Garry Hynes (left) and playwright Tom Murphy (Niall Carson/PA)

County Cork actress Siobhan McSweeney, best known for her performance as a nun in Derry Girls, will be hoping to take away best performance in a play for Irish playwright Samuel Becketts Happy Days at the Birmingham Rep.

Bafta-winner McSweeney wrote on X, formerly Twitter; Another heavenly day! Thank you.

She faces competition from West End actor Peter Forbes for On The Beach, Flowers star Daniel Rigby for Accidental Death Of An Anarchist and theatre star Wiliam Young for Of Mice And Men.

Sheffield Theatres, which includes the Crucible, the Lyceum and the Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse, was nominated for best musical production, best play revival, best performance in a musical and best performance in a play.

The award ceremony, hosted by musical theatre star Zoe Birkett, will take place on October 8 at Londons Guildhall.
Drew Harris wont resign after shocking outcome of ballot

Shocked: Almost 99% of rank and file officers voted against Garda Commissioner Drew Harris

The Garda Commissioner has described an overwhelming vote of no confidence in him by rank and file officers as a kick in the teeth  but said he will not resign.

Drew Harris, who is from Belfast, also said that he is hugely disappointed in the ballot by the Garda Representative Association (GRA) which he believes was a vote personally directed at him.

Almost 99% of gardai who voted in the ballot expressed no confidence in the Republics most senior officer.

The GRA issued 10,803 ballots, of which 9,129 were returned as valid votes.

Of those, 9,013 voted no confidence in Mr Harris, with 116 voting confidence in him.

Speaking to the media at the annual conference of the Association of Garda Superintendents yesterday, Mr Harris said: Im hugely disappointed, it does feel like a real kick in the teeth.

However, he said he would not resign over the non-binding ballot.

The former PSNI deputy chief constable said: That would be a completely illogical response to the situation.

The unprecedented vote stemmed from discontent within the force, mostly around the commissioners plan to return to a pre-pandemic roster from November 6.

A different roster was implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic, and the GRA and other representative groups gave a commitment to return to the old roster when it ended.

But the GRA has raised concerns over low morale in the force and said retention and recruitment issues would affect the implementation of the old roster.

Mr Harris, who has led the Garda for five years, said it was unclear whether the GRA were using the vote to comment on his leadership or to express dissatisfaction with an ongoing roster dispute.

I believe that they felt that they were voting on the decision to go back to the original roster, he said.

He accused the GRA of behaving irrationally in the industrial relations process with regards to the roster dispute, saying the roster had been agreed and was in place for seven years.

Asked about his future, Mr Harris said: The point is to stand back up again and finish the job I was employed to do. This is about protecting the people of Ireland and using our substantial resources to do that.

Announcing the outcome of the vote in Dublin, GRA general secretary Ronan Slevin said it was the largest return for a ballot in the history of the association.

(It) is a loud and clear message that we as an association have lost confidence in the direction of where policing is being led in this country, he said.

And, as such, it is now in the hands of government to stand up and take action.

Mr Slevin said the association would decide its next move at a specially convened conference at the end of September.

Following the vote, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee said the Garda Commissioner has her full confidence  a position expressed by her and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar throughout the ballot.

Ms McEntee said it is regrettable that the GRA voted overwhelmingly to express no confidence in Mr Harris amidst the ongoing dispute over rosters.

Speaking to reporters at the annual conference of the Association of Garda Superintendents, she said: His position is tenable. I have full support in the Commissioner as does this Government.I believe this vote was taken in the midst of an industrial relations dispute, I think thats reflected in the outcome of the vote.

She added: I fully believe that this can be resolved.
The father of 10-year-old Sara Sharif, who was found dead in her Surrey home, is among three people who remain in custody being held on suspicion of murder after arriving back in the UK.

Urfan Sharif, his partner Beinash Batool and brother Faisal Malik travelled to Pakistan a day before police discovered Saras body in Woking on August 10.

A post-mortem examination found the youngster had suffered multiple and extensive injuries over a sustained and extended period of time.

Urfan Sharif is being questioned (Surrey Police/PA)

On Wednesday evening, the three landed at Gatwick Airport on an Emirates flight from Sialkot, in eastern Punjab province, via Dubai.

Photos obtained by The Sun appeared to show police boarding the plane and taking them away in handcuffs.

They were arrested and remained in custody for questioning over Saras death.

Surrey Police said: Two men, aged 41 years and 28 years, and a woman, aged 29 years, were arrested on suspicion of murder after disembarking a flight from Dubai.

They are currently in custody and will be interviewed in due course.

Police discovered Saras body in Woking on August 10 (Surrey Police/PA)

Saras mother has been informed of this latest update and is being supported by specialist officers. Our thoughts remain with her and those affected by Saras death at this very difficult time.

This has been an extremely fast-moving, challenging and complex enquiry and we remain absolutely committed to conducting a thorough investigation into Saras death.

We will not be commenting any further at this point and will provide further updates as and when we are able to.

Sialkot police spokesperson Khan Mudassir said the three were handed over to the Pakistani Federal Investigation Agency.

Five of Saras siblings, aged between one and 13 years old, also travelled to the South Asian country on August 9 with Mr Sharif, Ms Batool and Mr Malik.
People lay flowers outside the property on Hammond Road in Woking (Jonathan Brady/PA)

Police are questioning the father of 10-year-old Sara Sharif and two other people in custody, who are being held on suspicion of murder.

They landed in the UK from Pakistan at Gatwick Airport on Wednesday and were immediately arrested by officers after disembarking the plane.

Here is a timeline of the events in the case so far.

 August 9

Saras father Urfan Sharif, 41, his partner Beinash Batool, 29, and Urfan Sharifs brother, Faisal Malik, 28, travel to Islamabad, Pakistan, with five children aged between one and 13 years old.

Urfan Sharif (left) and Beinash Batool (Surrey Police/PA)

 August 10

Officers from Surrey Police are called from Pakistan by Mr Sharif at about 2.50am to a semi-detached property on Hammond Road in Woking, Surrey, where Sara is found dead. A murder investigation is launched.

 August 15

A post-mortem examination is unable to establish the cause of Saras death and further tests are carried out, but the examination shows the child had suffered multiple and extensive injuries which were likely to have been caused over a sustained and extended period of time.

 August 18

Surrey Police say they would like to speak to Urfan Sharif, Beinash Batool and Faisal Malik in relation to the investigation, with a search for them under way.

 August 19

The Associated Press news agency reports that Pakistani police in the eastern province of Punjab are seeking to arrest Mr Sharif in connection with Saras death, with his family home believed to be in the city of Jhelum.

Officer Imran Ahmed said police found evidence that he had briefly returned to Jhelum, before leaving and disappearing.

 August 20

Surrey County Council confirms to the PA news agency Sara was known to the local authority. The search for her father continues.

 August 24

Rawalpindi Region police chief Khurram Ali says the force is close to locating Mr Sharif, Ms Batool and Mr Malik, after they had interrogated Mr Sharifs father, brother and uncle.

Police in the UK issue a fresh appeal for information in the case.

Sara Sharifs body was found at her home in Woking (Surrey Police/PA)

 August 27

Speaking to the Sunday Times, Saras grandfather Muhammad Sharif, 68, urges the three individuals to hand themselves in to police.

 August 29

An inquest into Saras death is opened at Surrey Coroners Court, and hears the precise cause of her death is not yet ascertained but is likely to be unnatural.

 September 6

In footage sent to broadcasters including the BBC and Sky, Ms Batool, accompanied by Mr Sharif, speaks publicly for the first time since Saras death and describes it as an incident, saying they are willing to co-operate with the UK authorities and fight our case in court.

 September 9

A police spokesman in Jhelum says Mr Sharif and Ms Batool are in hiding and 10 close relatives have been taken into custody for questioning, including Saras grandfather Muhammad Sharif.

 September 11

The BBC reports that five children have been taken from the home of Muhammad Sharif, with dozens of police officers raiding the property in Jhelum.

Eyewitness accounts say officers broke CCTV cameras at the property, stopped traffic and prevented passers-by from filming. The children were later returned.

The whereabouts of Urfan Sharif, Ms Batool and Mr Malik are still unknown.

 September 12

A court rules that the five children will be sent temporarily to a government childcare facility in Pakistan.

In the UK, Surrey Police say they are working to secure the safe return of the siblings from Pakistan.

 September 13

Urfan Sharif, Beinash Batool and Faisal Malik land in the UK at Gatwick Airport on an Emirates flight from Sialkot, Pakistan, via Dubai, and are arrested on suspicion of murder immediately after leaving the plane.

Sialkot police spokesman Khan Mudassir said the three individuals were handed over to the Pakistani Federal Investigation Agency.
Damage from massive flooding is seen in Derna, Libya (Yousef Murad/AP)

By Samy Magdy and Yousef Murad, Associated Press

By Samy Magdy and Yousef Murad, Associated Press

The death toll in Libyas coastal city of Derna has soared to 11,300 as search efforts continue following a massive flood fed by the breaching of two dams in heavy rains, the Libyan Red Crescent said.

Marie el-Drese, secretary-general of the aid group, told The Associated Press that a further 10,100 people are reported missing in the Mediterranean city.

Health authorities had previously put the death toll in Derna at 5,500.

The flooding swept away entire families on Sunday night and exposed vulnerabilities in the oil-rich country, which has been mired in conflict since a 2011 uprising that toppled long-ruling dictator Muammar Gaddafi.

Daniel, an unusually strong Mediterranean storm, caused deadly flooding in towns across eastern Libya, but the worst-hit was Derna.

As the storm pounded the coast on Sunday night, residents said they heard loud explosions when two dams outside the city collapsed.

The flooded city of Derna, Libya (Muhammad J Elalwany/AP)

Floodwaters gushed down Wadi Derna, a valley that cuts through the city, crashing through buildings and washing people out to sea.

A UN official said on Thursday that most casualties could have been avoided.

If there would have been a normal operating meteorological service, they could have issued the warnings, World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) head Petteri Taalas told reporters in Geneva.

The emergency management authorities would have been able to carry out the evacuation.

The WMO said earlier this week that the National Meteorological Centre had issued warnings 72 hours before the flooding, notifying all governmental authorities by email and through media.

Officials in eastern Libya warned the public about the coming storm and on Saturday had ordered residents to evacuate areas along the coast, fearing a surge from the sea.

Damage after the flooding in Derna (Yousef Murad/AP)

But there was no warning about the dams collapsing.

The startling devastation reflected the storms intensity, but also Libyas vulnerability.

Oil-rich Libya has been divided between rival governments for most of the past decade  one in the east, the other in the capital Tripoli  and one result has been widespread neglect of infrastructure.

The two dams that collapsed outside Derna were built in the 1970s.

A report by a state-run audit agency in 2021 said the dams had not been maintained despite the allocation of more than two million euros for that purpose in 2012 and 2013.

Libyas Tripoli-based Prime Minister Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah acknowledged the maintenance issues in a Cabinet meeting on Thursday and called on the public prosecutor to open an urgent investigation into the dams collapse.

The disaster brought a rare moment of unity, as government agencies across the country rushed to help the affected areas.

While the Tobruk-based government of east Libya is leading relief efforts, the Tripoli-based western government allocated the equivalent of 412 million dollars (332 million) for reconstruction in Derna and other eastern towns, and an armed group in Tripoli sent a convoy with humanitarian aid.

Floodwaters from Mediterranean Storm Daniel (Jamal Alkomaty/AP)

Derna has begun burying its dead, mostly in mass graves, said eastern Libyas health minister Othman Abduljaleel earlier on Thursday.

More than 3,000 bodies were buried by Thursday morning, the minister said, while another 2,000 were still being processed.

He said most of the dead were buried in mass graves outside Derna, while others were transferred to nearby towns and cities.

Mr Abduljaleel said rescue teams were still searching wrecked buildings in the city centre, and divers were combing the sea off Derna.

Untold numbers could be buried under drifts of mud and debris, including overturned cars and chunks of concrete, that rise up to four metres (13ft) high.

Libyas eastern based parliament, the House of Representatives, approved on Thursday an emergency budget of 10 billion Libyan dinars  roughly two billion dollars (1.6 billion)  to address the flooding and help those affected.

Rescuers have struggled to bring in heavy equipment as the floods washed out or blocked roads leading to the area.

The Libyan Red Crescent said on Thursday that 11,300 people have been killed, and a further 10,100 are reported missing.

The flooded city of Derna (Muhammad J Elalwany/AP)

Local officials suggested that the death toll could be much higher than announced.

In comments to the Saudi-owned Al Arabia television station, Derna mayor Abdel-Moneim al-Ghaithi said the tally could climb to 20,000 given the number of neighbourhoods that were washed out.

The storm also killed around 170 people in other parts of eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Um Razaz and Marj, the health minister said.

The dead in eastern Libya included at least 84 Egyptians, who were transferred to their home country on Wednesday.

More than 70 came from one village in the southern province of Beni Suef.

Libyan media also said dozens of Sudanese migrants were killed in the disaster.

The floods have also displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, according to the UNs International Organisation for Migration, and several thousand others were forced to leave their homes in other eastern towns, it said.

The floods damaged or destroyed many access roads to Derna, hampering the arrival of international rescue teams and humanitarian assistance.

People look for survivors in Derna (Yousef Murad/AP)

Local authorities were able to clear some routes, and over the past 48 hours humanitarian convoys have been able to enter the city.

The UN humanitarian office issued an emergency appeal for 71.4 million dollars (57.5 million) to respond to urgent needs of 250,000 Libyans most affected.

The humanitarian office, known as OCHA, estimated that approximately 884,000 people in five provinces live in areas directly affected by the rain and flooding.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said on Thursday it has provided 6,000 body bags to local authorities, as well as medical, food and other supplies distributed to hard-hit communities.

International aid started to arrive earlier this week in Benghazi, 250 kilometres (150 miles) west of Derna.

Several countries have sent aid and rescue teams, including neighbouring Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia.

Italy dispatched a naval vessel on Thursday carrying humanitarian aid and two navy helicopters to be used for search and rescue operations.

President Joe Biden said the United States would send money to relief organisations and co-ordinate with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support.
In this pool photo distributed by Sputnik News, Russian President Vladimir Putin, center left, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, center right, visit the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the far eastern Amur region of Russia on Wednesday. AFP-Yonhap



Former South Korean Ambassador to Russia Wi Sung-lac encourages Yoon to leave room for cooperation with Russia, China, while deepening ties with US, Japan



By Kang Hyun-kyung



The summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia's Far eastern region of Amur has raised a red flag on regional security.



Few details were made public about the Putin-Kim summit, e xcept their eagerness to deepen defense ties as revealed in their opening statements, the fact that Kim's itinerary was packed with visits to military-related sites and remarks Putin made about the summit's agenda.

Officials in the U.S. and South Korea said that North Korea and Russia were likely to have reached an arms deal during the hours-long closed-door summit, because it took place as Russia continues to grapple with a shortage of artillery shells in its war against Ukraine.



"If Russia and North Korea signed a weapons deal and the North agreed to provide artillery shells and munition as widely speculated, then Russia will do the same for the North in case a contingency occurs on the Korean Peninsula," Wi Sung-lac, South Korea's former ambassador to Russia, told The Korea Times during an interview on Wednesday.



It remains unknown what the quid pro quo for North Korea was.



Observing how quickly Kim and Putin fortified their partnership, Wi voiced worries about South Korea's lack of a grand strategy, which could guide policymakers to search for an optimal diplomatic course of action through which they can explore all possible resources to realize South Korea's interests.



He said that President Yoon Suk Yeol is moving in the right direction concerning trilateral cooperation with the United States and Japan, but also pointed out that South Korea appears to be ill prepared for the three-way collaboration in the making between China, Russia and North Korea.



"South Korea has been zigzagging between the U.S. and China, depending on the administration. This is because Seoul has no foreign policy strategy to deal with them. Under this condition, South Korea will be seen as a country vulnerable to coercion," he said.





Wi Sung-lac, right on the screen, former South Korean ambassador to Russia, is seen at the Korea Times forum held in Seoul on Oct. 26 of last year. Also seen on the screen is Joseph DeTrani, former U.S. chief negotiator to the six-party talks that aimed to end North Korea's nuclear program. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul



Wi used the analogy of a clock to identify South Korea's relative diplomatic distance between the U.S. on one side and China and Russia on the other.



"Let's suppose that the U.S. is 3 o'clock and China and Russia are 9 o'clock as the two sides are poles apart on the security front, and the two sides are trying to pull South Korea closer to their position," he said.



The more South Korea nears 3 o'clock, the closer the country is to the U.S. This direction also shows that South Korea is growing further apart from China and Russia and does nothing to mend ties with them.



"For the past decades, South Korea has shown inconsistent records. Once, it was at 9 o'clock, but after a certain period of time, the country found itself near 3 o'clock," he said. "South Korea is one of the world's top 10 economies, but there are no other top 10 countries that go back and forth between the two opposing sides in such a dramatic way."



Contrary to South Korea, the former envoy said countries like Japan and Australia have been steady and consistent in the diplomatic policies.



"From my standpoint, Japan looks like 2 o'clock and Australia 2:30 and they have been there without fluctuating," he said.



He said South Korea needs a diplomatic roadmap that sets out the nation's goals, as well as diplomatic tactics to deal with the U.S., Japan, China and Russia.



Just like countries in the Asia-Pacific region dealing with China, Wi said Russia is the European equivalent of China as it poses the greatest security challenge to European countries.



"European countries have their own strategies and act based on them," he said.



According to him, the United Kingdom, for example, is tougher on Russia than any other country in the region.



"Germany and France also have their own principled strategies. Each of them is different because the circumstances those countries face are different. Germany's relations with Russia are comparable to South Korea-China relations as they are crucial trading partners, but at the same time they are pitted against each other on the security front," he said. "But none of these countries are zigzagging or going back and forth in their foreign policy postures when dealing with the U.S. and Russia."



Wi called for an integrated and coordinated foreign policy strategy that can help South Korea survive the tougher diplomatic landscape where U.S.-led democratic countries are pitted against the major three autocratic countries  China, Russia and North Korea.



"There should have been a heated debate to draw a consensus from the Korean public about what to do with those countries in the nation's foreign policy strategy and such an effort should have continued at least for the past 15 years or so. Unfortunately, however, there was no such effort," he said, expressing regret over the lack of constructive discourse.



Wi said summit diplomacy without a strategy or policy direction becomes nothing more than a string of one-off events.



He likened summit diplomacy to a pre-programmed digital device.



"Summit talks are just hardware. That hardware will be working only when pre-programmed software is put in place inside the device. Policy and strategy are two key components of the software that make the hardware work," he said.





North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, left, and Russia's President Vladimir Putin attend a meeting at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia's far eastern Amur region, Wednesday. Reuters-Yonhap
Russian President Vladimir Putin dances with then Austrian foreign minister Karin Kneissl at her wedding in Gamlitz, southern Austria, in August 2018 (Alexei Druzhinin, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

A former Austrian foreign minister who invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to her wedding and danced a waltz with him at the 2018 reception said she has moved to St Petersburg to set up a think tank there.

Karin Kneissl, 58, announced on messaging app Telegram that her ponies, which she has been keeping in Syria, were taken to Russia on a Russian military plane.

Ms Kneissl, from the right-wing Freedom Party, served as foreign minister from 2017 to 2019.

She was repeatedly criticised in Austrian and German media during that time for her pro-Russia views.

Russian President Vladimir Putin dances with then Austrian foreign minister Karin Kneissl at her wedding in Gamlitz, southern Austria, on August 18 2018 (Roland Schlager/Pool via AP)

Her dance with Mr Putin came just months after Russia was accused of poisoning former spy Sergei Skripal, and his daughter Yulia, with nerve agent Novichok in the United Kingdom.

Ms Kneissl said in her post that she moved her books, clothes and ponies from Marseille to Beirut in June 2022, after Russia invaded Ukraine, after which she says she was banished from France.

At the Eastern Economic Forum in the far eastern Russian city of Vladivostok earlier this week, Ms Kneissl told Russian state news agency Tass that she had set up the Gorki centre  a think tank associated with the state university in St Petersburg.

Because the think tank requires a lot of her time, she decided to move to Russia, she said.

The Gorki centre, Ms Kneissl told Tass, deals, among other things, with issues of energy, migration and new alliances  issues in which I am well versed, which also affect the Arab and Islamic world, with which I am familiar.

Ms Kneissl also said on Telegram that since apparently nothing is going on in Austria and Germany beyond the economic crisis, my relocation is becoming a political issue.

She added, in a swipe likely at her critics, that the hatred that seeps out of Austria amazes not only me.

In an interview at the forum with Russian news agency RIA Novosti, Ms Kneissl said its not easy to move to Russia because of the amount of paperwork involved but that she had already moved into an apartment she is renting in St Petersburg.
Search teams combed streets, wrecked buildings and even the sea on Wednesday to look for bodies in a coastal Libyan city where the collapse of two dams unleashed a massive flash flood that killed at least 5,100 people.

The Mediterranean city of Derna has struggled to get help after Sunday nights deluge washed away most access roads.

Aid workers who managed to reach the city described devastation in its centre, with thousands still missing and tens of thousands left homeless.

Bodies are everywhere, inside houses, in the streets, at sea. Wherever you go, you find dead men, women, and children, Emad al-Falah, an aid worker from Benghazi, said over the phone from Derna, adding search teams went through shattered apartment buildings and retrieved the dead floating offshore in the Mediterranean Sea.

French aid workers wait by a cargo plane loaded with disaster relief for Libya (Daniel Cole/AP)

Mediterranean storm Daniel caused deadly flooding on Sunday in many towns of eastern Libya, but the worst-hit was Derna.

Two dams in the mountains above the city collapsed, sending floodwaters roaring down the Wadi Derna river and through the city centre, sweeping away entire city blocks.

As much as a quarter of the city has disappeared, emergency officials said.

Waves rose as high as seven metres (23 feet), Yann Fridez, head of the delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Libya, told broadcaster France24.

Derna lies on a narrow coastal plain, under steep mountains. The only two usable roads from the south take a winding route through the mountains.

Collapsed bridges over the river split the city centre, further hampering movement.

Ossama Ali, a spokesman for an ambulance centre in eastern Libya, said at least 5,100 deaths were recorded in Derna, along with around 100 others elsewhere in eastern Libya.

More than 7,000 people in the city were injured.

A spokesman for the eastern Libyan interior ministry put the death tally in Derna at more than 5,300, according to the state-run news agency.

At least 5,100 deaths were recorded in Derna, along with around 100 others elsewhere in eastern Libya (Muhammad J Elalwany/AP)

The number of deaths was likely to increase since teams are still collecting bodies, Mr Ali said. At least 9,000 people are missing, but that number could drop as communications are restored.

At least 30,000 people in Derna were displaced by the flooding, the UNs International Organisation for Migration said.

The storm hit other areas in eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa and Marj.

The startling devastation pointed to the storms intensity, but also Libyas vulnerability. The country is divided by rival governments, one in the east, the other in the west, and the result has been neglect of infrastructure in many areas.

Derna is 250 kilometres (150 miles) east of Benghazi, where international aid started to arrive on Tuesday.

Neighboring Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia, as well as Turkey, Italy and the United Arab Emirates, sent rescue teams and aid.

The UK and German governments sent assistance too, including blankets, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, tents, water filters and generators.

US President Joe Biden also said the United States would send money to relief organisations and coordinate with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support.

Authorities transferred hundreds of bodies to morgues in nearby towns. More than 300, including 84 Egyptians, were brought to the morgue in the city of Tobruk, 169 kilometres (105 miles) east of Derna, the local Medical Centre reported.

The victims lists reflected how Libya, despite its turmoil, was always a magnet for workers from around the region because of its oil industry.
Shutterstock.com

The Bible is universal.The Bible is available in 426 languages and the New Testament is available in 1,115 languages, but there is more work to be done according to christianresearch.org. There are "Over 4,500 languages still wait for even one book of the Bible. This means millions either have no access to the Bible at all or can only encounter it in something other than their heart language." There are 17 historical books.There are 17 historical books of the Bible. There is Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther. The oldest men in the Bible.The oldest man in the Bible was Methuselah, a descendant of Adam and Noah's grandfather. According to Genesis 5:27 he "Lived 969 years and then he died." The second oldest man of the Bible was a sixth-generation descendant of Adam and Eve named Jared. He at the age of 962, making him the second-oldest person mentioned in the Bible. There are specific ways to approach prayer.Did you know there are 9 ways to approach prayer according to the Bible? They can be found in the New and Old Testament. There is the act of praise, confession, thanksgiving, petition, commitment, intercession, benediction, confidence and forgiveness. God miraculously helped Hezekiah.Hezekiah was struggling on how he would be able to defeat the king of Assyria. He cried out to the Lord at the temple. Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth. Give ear, Lord, and hear; open your eyes, Lord, and see; listen to all the words Sennacherib has sent to ridicule the living God." The Lord answered by sending an angel to put 185,000 Assyrian soldiers to death overnight. Jesus and John the Baptist were second cousins.Jesus' mother, Mary and John's mother, Elizabeth were second cousins. However, the word "cousin" can mean "relative" as it was interpreted by 17th Century scholars for the King James Bible published in 1611. John the Baptist and Jesus could be second cousins as indicated in Luke 1:36. "What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her 6th month." The sun moved backward.Hezekiah had great moments with God for sure. He witnessed another miracle in Isaiah 38:8, "I will make the shadow cast by the sun go back the 10 steps it has gone down on the stairway on Ahaz." So the sunlight went back the ten steps it had gone down." The sun stopped.The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down for about a full day when Joshua asked the Lord for help as he needed aid against his attackers. "The sun stood still, and the moon stayed until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. And there has been no day like that, before it or after it, that the Lord heeded a voice of a man; for the Lord fought for Israel." There was a really tall man.Okay, did you know that there was a man so tall that he needed a 13-foot bed? According to Deuteronomy 3:11, King Og of Bashan was the last survivor of the giant Rephaites. "His bed was made of iron and was more than 13-feet long and 6-feet wide. It can still be seen in the Ammonite city of Rabbah." A talking donkey.According to Numbers 22, Balaam was paid by King Balak to curse the Israelites. But God had other plans and it was through his talking donkey. The angel of the Lord said: "What have I done to make you beat me these 3 times?" Balaam answered the donkey, "You have made a fool of me! If only I had a sword in my hand, I would kill you right now." But the donkey responded "Am I not your own donkey, which you have always ridden, to this day? Have I been in the habit of doing this to you?" "No," Balaam answered. Then Balaam saw the angel of the Lord and bowed to him and said, I have sinned. I did not realize you were standing in the road to oppose me. Now if you are displeased, I will go back. Balaam never got to curse the Israelites and repented.



The Bible is enthralling whether it's on the pages or how it has impacted the world. No wonder it endures as a best-seller. Corine Gatti-Santillo is a freelance digital journalist, editor, and content producer. She is also the The Christian Post Voices Editor. She is also a former editor at Beliefnet.com.

The word "Bible" comes from the Greek and Latin words which mean "the book" and it's the hottest book ever to be sold and it remains true today. A survey by the Bible Society concluded that around 2.5 billion copies were printed between 1815 and 1975, and it is estimated that the Bible has sold over 5 million copies worldwide. According to Pew, "Christianity is the world's largest religion , with an estimated 2.2 billion adherents, nearly a third (31 percent) of all 6.9 billion people on Earth." If this is true we should know everything about the Bible, correct? Let's be straightforward, most of us never read the entire Bible and we just scan over it for the most part. There are things we don't know about the Good Book inside and outside the pages, however. Here are 10 intriguing facts about the Bible.
Lt. Gen. Santi Sakuntanark, the regional army commander, speaks with soldiers investigating the scene of a rebel attack that killed four security officers and injured four others in Yarang, a district of Pattani province in Thailands Deep South, Aug. 29, 2023.

Late last month, separatist rebels jolted Thailands security apparatus by launching simultaneous attacks in a pocket of the southern border region that lasted considerably longer than their usual hit-and-run raids.

The coordinated attacks came only a few days after Parliament elected Srettha Thavisin as the new prime minister, and their intensity rattled the nerves of the guardians of Thai security. And with a new government finally in place after a post-polls impasse that lasted months, peace talks between the Thai government and Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN), the main insurgent group in the far south, are expected to resume.

In the first of the three recent attacks in Yarang, a district of Pattani province, a group of rebels used M60 machine-guns  military-grade weapons that require two people to operate them  as well as grenades.

Four security officials  two police officers and two members of a provincial security detail  were killed and four other policemen were injured during the gunfight that ensued on Aug. 28. The incident lasted more than 10 minutes  an eternity for attacks by suspected BRN rebels.

In the second and simultaneous attack, a police unit came under a hail of gunfire as it passed by a local Buddhist temple. Meanwhile, only a kilometer away, a powerful explosive took down a utility pole, seemingly as a smokescreen so that the rebels could make their getaway a little easier, an army officer said.

Explosions from roadside bombs often preceed rebel raids, but the gunfights that follow usually dont last longer than three minutes, said the officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to reporters.

I cant recall the last time an M60 was used by the separatists, the officer said. We know that they had taken some from the Pileng operation, he added, referring to an arms heist by BRN rebels in January 2004, when they stole more than 350 weapons from an army battalions weapons depot in neighboring Narathiwat province.

Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin reads the policy statement at Parliament in Bangkok, Sept. 11, 2023 [AP]

What was particularly disturbing about the attack in Pattani on Aug. 28 was that several reels of video footage were recorded at the scene and from different vantage points, the officer said.

Some of the footage was filmed from the position from where the rebels were shooting; other footage was taken from safe positions, as if the videographer knew about the attack ahead of time, the officer noted.

Postings of the various footage on social media, however, were quickly taken down as if to blur the origin of the videos and to throw off investigators.

Srettha doesnt seem to care

Some activists in the region such as Artef Sohko, the president of The Patani, a political action group that advocates the right to self-determination for the people of this historically contested region, see the coordinated attacks as BRNs way of welcoming the new government.

In other words, it was a sign of things to come for the newly inducted government of Srettha, who, in his policy speech to Parliament this week, appealed to the countrys people  regardless of their ethnicities, religions and ideologies  to live in harmony.

He did not single out or mention the far south, where more than 7,300 people have been killed from insurgency-related violence in the mainly Malay Muslim border region since early 2004.

Srettha doesnt seem to care about the conflict in the Patani region and he is surrounded by people who do not really want to see the peace process becomes a national agenda as it could lead to internationalization of the conflict, said Asmadee Bueheng, a Pattani-based writer and the author of Rawang Tang Satha (On the Path of Faith), published in March 2023.

Internationalization means outside interference and Thailand never wanted that, Asmadee said.

Conflict and insurgency in the far south, including the Malaysia-brokered peace talks between the government and the BRN, was largely ignored by Thailands political parties.

That includes the local Malay party, Prachachat, which performed well in the May 14 general election. Campaigning on a platform that emphasized the local Muslim identity, the party won nine of the 14 parliamentary seats representing the region.



When it was safe to do so, Prachachat played the Islamic card and pandered to the regions religous minority, such as through condemning Thailands legalization of marijuana on moral grounds. But the party stayed away from the peace process and the issue of conflict resolution.

That would have been a hard sell to the Thai public, who can be unkind to people who challenge the Thai state-constructed narrative and identity. Many see the Malay Muslim minoritys refusal to embrace the Thai identity as a direct challenge to the countrys nationhood.

A woman casts her ballot at a polling station during the general election in Pattani, southern Thailand, May 14, 2023. [Tuwaedaniya Meringing/AFP]

According to an informed source, Prachachat Party leader Thawee Sodsong, who is the new minister of justice, has been approached to become the chairman of the steering committee overseeing the peace process, although he has kept tight-lipped about that prospect. In the past, the post was occupied by Thailands prime minister.

Thawee has a long and personal history in the far south, where he served as secretary-general of the multi-agency Southern Border Provinces Administration Center (SBPAC) during the government of Yingluck Shinawatra, who was ousted in a military coup in May 2014. He was also the architect foran earlier iteration of the peace process between Thailand and the BRN, launched in Kuala Lumpur a decade ago.

Should Thawee take the position, it will not be smooth sailing.

Being close to the Shinawatra political family has its price. It places him on the other side of the political divide from the conservative military. Prachachat may be part of Sretthas new ruling coalition that includes pro-military parties, but the political divide is still very much there.

Moreover, the Thai army never liked the idea of negotiating with the rebels because they believe that military means can bring the long-running southern insurgency to an end.

As did the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the army preferred to label the separatist movements as criminal organizations. In their mind, to acknowledge the political underpinnings of the violence will only help legitimize the separatist movements.

Don Pathan is a Thailand-based security analyst who works on conflict and insurgency in the Southeast Asia region. The views expressed here are his own and do not reflect the position of BenarNews.
Adilur Rahman Khan, a leader of Odhikar, a Bangladeshi human rights advocacy group, looks on outside a court in Dhaka where he and a colleague were sentenced to two years in prison, Sept. 14, 2023.

A Bangladesh court sentenced two leaders of a prominent human rights group to two years in prison each on Thursday for violating a now-defunct internet law by reporting about a high death toll from a crackdown on protesters in 2013.

Their Odhikar organization is at the forefront of local efforts by rights advocates to draw worldwide attention to alleged government repression.

A.M. Julfikar Hayat, a Dhaka Cyber Tribunal judge, delivered the verdict and sentence to Adilur Rahman Khan, Odhikars head, and A.S.M. Nasiruddin Elan, one of its directors, in a case filed under a notorious law that no longer exists.

I did not get justice in this court, Khan told reporters while he and Elan were escorted to a heavily guarded van before it hauled them off to prison.

I will go to the High Court against this verdict.

The prosecution said it would appeal to a higher court to seek a longer prison term for the two men.

Odhikar has also been documenting cases of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings carried out by the countrys security forces under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. She and her Awami League have ruled Bangladesh uninterrupted since 2009. Now the party is gearing up for a general election, which is due in a few months.

The trial of the activists attracted high-profile statements from abroad. These included a joint resolution adopted by the European Parliament on Thursday and a statement earlier this month by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, who called for an end to their harassment and intimidation.

A group of observers from foreign missions was also present at the court when the ruling was announced.

In an immediate reaction after the judge handed down the verdict, 72 domestic and global rights groups, including Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International and Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, urged the authorities to quash the convictions and release the men.

A statement by the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka said it was concerned that the verdict would undermine the ability of human rights defenders and civil society to play their vital democratic role in Bangladesh.

Chilling effect

Odhikar, in a statement itself, warned that the ruling would have a chilling effect on rights activists and civil society organizations. Convicting and sentencing human rights defenders for their work was unprecedented in Bangladesh, the group said.

As an organization, Odhikar has drawn the sustained wrath of the establishment for becoming the voice of the victims of human rights violations, including those of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, torture, arbitrary detention and against the suppression of free expression and assembly; and for its engagement with the United Nations Human Rights Mechanisms, it read.

Members of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) stand guard during a nationwide protest in Dhaka, Nov. 26, 2013. [Andrew Biraj/Reuters file photo]

International organizations including the United Nations have often cited Odhikars reports and documentation of enforced disappearance and extrajudicial killings.

The case against its leaders had been pending before the court for 10 years but gained new momentum after the Biden administration in the United States declared sanctions against an elite Bangladeshi police unit, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), in December 2021.

In a press release announcing the sanctions, the U.S. Department of Treasury cited allegations made by NGOs that RAB had been complicit in numerous instances of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.

Six months later, in June 2022, the government revoked Odhikars license as a non-governmental organization.

Tarnishing image of the state

The case against Odhikar centered around a 2013 operation by security forces to clear a large-scale rally by a conservative Muslim group, Hefazat-e-Islam, in the heart of Dhaka.

In a fact-finding report published on its website in June 2013, Odhikar claimed that 61 people had been killed in an overnight operation by security forces to remove Hefazat-e-Islams activists from a commercial zone in Dhaka.

Khan, who is also a lawyer and a former deputy attorney general, was arrested in August 2013 and spent about two months in police custody before being released on bail. Police also raided Odhikars office and confiscated documents and equipment.

The prosecution claims that during the raid, the police discovered a list of people allegedly killed during the operation but that the tally was inaccurate.

Odhikar said the tally was a working draft and not the basis of its report.

Activists of Hefazat-e-Islam clash with police in front of the National Mosque in Dhaka, May 5, 2013. [Andrew Biraj/Reuters file photo]

A police report filed to the court accused the men of creating and disseminating fabricated, deliberate and false reports about the deaths of 61 people, and thereby causing public outrage, attempting to disrupt law and order and severely tarnishing the image of law enforcement, the government and the state at home and abroad.

Khan and Elan were charged under the Information and Communication Technology Act, a much-criticized internet law that was replaced by the Digital Security Act (DSA) in 2018. The government on Tuesday moved to replace the DSA with another law, Cyber Security Act, that experts said was similarly problematic.

Adilur Rahman Khan is a well-respected rights activist. He was sentenced under the controversial Section 57 of the ICT Act today, said Nur Khan Liton, a fellow rights activist who serves as executive director of Ain-O-Salish Kendra (ASK).

This verdict goes against human rights and justice.

In their joint statement following Thursdays ruling, 72 local and international groups said, We stand with Khan and Elan and urge the authorities to release them immediately and unconditionally, as they have been detained solely for their human rights work.

The authorities should reverse their convictions, and ensure they are able to continue their human rights documenting and reporting without fear of reprisals, they added.

On Wednesday, a joint resolution proposed  and later adopted  by the European Parliament highlighted the case of Odhikar and urged the Bangladesh government to restore a safe and enabling environment for NGOs and civil society organizations.

At a press conference on Thursday after the verdict was delivered, Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen described the European resolution as being devoid of any legal authority.

The discussion [at the European Parliament] regarding this proposal is not legally binding. It is not compulsory, he said.

His colleague, Md. Shahriar Alam, the junior minister for foreign affairs, went further, calling the resolution an act of interference.

We will take it into cognizance and not sit idle if there is any propaganda against Bangladesh, he said.
A girl looks out of the window in front of the Suralaya coal-fired power plant in Cilegon, Banten province, Indonesia, Sept. 14, 2023.

Residents of a province near Jakarta have accused the World Bank Group of indirectly financing the expansion of an enormous coal-fired power plant, saying it would aggravate their health and livelihood problems, environmentalist groups said Thursday.

In a complaint lodged with the World Bank, residents of Banten province alleged that its International Finance Corp. (IFC) unit had made an equity investment in a bank, which is a financier of the Suralaya plants expansion, but they did not say that the investment was used for the project.



The Suralaya power plant complex in Cilegon, a city about 62 miles west of Jakarta, is already the largest in Southeast Asia, with eight units that have a total capacity of 4,025 megawatts. Its expansion with the addition of two units, Java 9 and 10, will add 2,000 MW of capacity.

The expansion will devastate local communities and tip the world closer to a climate catastrophe, to which Indonesia and its citizens are uniquely susceptible, Novita Indri, energy campaigner at Trend Asia, a group supporting the complaint, said in a statement.

The statement was released by Inclusive Development International (IDI), a U.S.-based human rights group and one of the organizations that helped file the complaint.

The expansion project is owned and managed by PT Indo Raya Tenaga, a joint venture between PLN, Indonesias state-owned electricity company, and a South Korean firm, Doosan Enerbility.

Ramidin, 59, a local fisherman who goes by one name, smokes a cigarette as he prepares to fish at a port near the Suralaya coal-fired power plant, where environmental degradation has affected marine life, in Banten province, Indonesia, July 10, 2020. [Willy Kurniawan/Reuters]

Among the various local and Southeast Asian financiers of the project is Hana Bank Indonesia, which received an equity investment of U.S. $15 million from the World Banks IFC in 2019, the residents of Cilegon said in their complaint. A disclosure document on the IFC website confirms that investment.

The Cilegon residents complaint stated that IFC was exposed to Java 9 and 10 coal units in the Suralaya plant because Hana Bank Indonesia provided $56 million in financing to the project manager PT Indo Raya Tenaga in July 2020.

The complaint did not say that the IFCs equity investment in Hana Bank Indonesia was a part of the $56 million of funding for Java 9 and 10. It said that IFC should in no way be connected to any coal projects.

Complainants want to ensure that any remaining loopholes that would allow IFC to indirectly finance a new coal project via financial intermediary clients in the future are closed, the complaint to the World Bank Group stated.

In March, the IFC updated its policy for financial clients such as banks to end investment in new coal. The previous policy only required clients to reduce their coal exposure by half by 2025 and to zero by 2030.



The World Bank has pledged to align its operations with the Paris Agreement on climate change and to help countries transition to cleaner energy sources. However, critics said, the bank still supports coal projects through its financial intermediaries and has not done enough to ensure compliance with its environmental and social standards.

The World Banks acting director in Indonesia, Lestari Boediono Qureshi, declined to comment on the complaint.

The IFC, Hana Bank Indonesia and the Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, did not reply immediately to requests for comment from BenarNews.

Environmental degradation

The construction of Java 9 and 10, is totally unwarranted because electricity needs in the area are already being met and the Java-Bali grid is already oversupplied, IDIs Novita said.

As it is, the Suralaya plant, which has been operating since 1984, has been linked to air pollution, water contamination and soil degradation in the area.

Additionally, farming and fishing in the area have become increasingly unviable because environmental degradation has affected soil and marine life, according to the residents complaint.

Families have been forcibly evicted without adequate compensation to make way for the new plants, and the last remaining beach in the area has been destroyed, greatly impacting tourism and local businesses, it said.

According to a study by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) released on Tuesday, the Suralaya complex has led to health problems that have cost an annual $1 billion.

The coal-fired plant also contributes to hazardous smog in Jakarta, which topped the list of the worlds most polluted cities in August.

The expanded facility will only add to these woes, green groups supporting the complaint of residents living near the coal-fired power plant said.

The two new units when completed would emit an estimated 250 million metric tons of carbon dioxide over their 30-year lifespan, further contributing to global warming in Indonesia, one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change, IDI said.

A view of high-rise buildings shrouded in smog during morning rush hour in Jakarta, Aug. 23, 2023. [Willy Kurniawan/Reuters]

However, Peter Wijaya, president-director of PT Indo Raya Tenaga, said last week that Java 9 and 10 would be hybrid power plants, making them more environmentally friendly, according to a local news report.

The new plants would use a mix of 60% ammonia and green hydrogen and 40% coal in the production process, Investor Daily said.

The construction of the new units is expected to be completed by 2025 and is part of President Joko Jokowi Widodos ambitious plan to add 35 gigawatts of electricity capacity nationwide by 2024.

However, with electricity supply exceeding demand in Java, the government should focus more on improving distribution networks and expanding access in other regions, said Daymas Arangga, the executive director of Energy Watch, a local advocacy group.

Companies that come to the [other] regions, for example, have difficulty building smelters because there is no adequate electricity supply, Daymas told BenarNews, referring to nickel and other smelters.

Coal, the dirtiest of fossil fuels, powers 65% of the energy needs of Indonesia, Southeast Asias largest and most populous country.

Indonesia is the worlds eighth most polluting country with 2% of global greenhouse-gas emissions to its name, according to the World Resources Institute.

The energy sector accounts for nearly half of the countrys emissions, with automotive emissions making up about one-fifth of its overall emissions, according to the Ministry of Industry.

The country has agreed to cap power sector emissions at 290 megatons of CO2 in 2030, down from 357 megatons. It also agreed to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy so that it comprises at least 34% of all electricity generation by the same year.Last year, Indonesia signed a Just Energy Transition Partnership with several international donors. The partnership aims to provide $20 billion in funding to help Indonesia shift away from coal and other fossil fuels.
Philippine Armed Forces chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. (right) gestures while walking with U.S. Indo-Pacific commander Adm. John C. Aquilino while inspecting the airport in the town of Lal-lo, Cagayan province, northern Philippines, Sept. 13, 2023.

The United States is seeking access to more bases in the Philippines on top of nine sites already included under an expanded pact, military chiefs said Thursday, amid heightened regional tensions with China.

During annual bilateral talks in Metro Manila, he and Philippine military chief Romeo Brawner Jr. recommended giving American forces greater access to bases here, but their governments would need to approve this, said Adm. John C. Aquilino, head of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

Gen. Brawner and I made recommendations to our senior leaders for the consideration of additional sites, but there is still work to do there before we get to that answer, Aquilino told reporters at the Philippine militarys headquarters in Quezon City.

Aquilino and Brawner did not give a number for how many more bases might be added under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), but the addition of four bases this past February caused some controversy in the Philippines and it angered China.

We are in discussions, but everyone has a boss and we both have bosses, well have those conversations  I think in private, and give our bosses some decision space on how theyd like to go forward, Aquilino said.

Filipino and U.S. officials have denied that giving American forces rotational access to more Philippine bases is connected to tensions with China over a territorial dispute in the South China Sea and Taiwan. China reacted to the move earlier this year, saying it was provocative and aimed at helping the U.S. contain the Peoples Republic and its military.

Aquilino was in the Philippines this week to visit three of the EDCA sites and meet with Brawner to discuss ways to deepen defense ties between the longstanding allies.

The U.S. military chief for the region spoke to reporters after the annual meeting of the Mutual Defense and Security Engagement Boards, which are responsible for coordinating cooperation between the two militaries under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty.

In February, Manila added four sites that the U.S. could access under EDCA, increasing the total number of bases to nine.

The decision by the Marcos administration to allow U.S. forces greater access to local bases has angered some Filipinos, who worry that their country, as a consequence, would be in the line of fire should war break out between the U.S. and China over Taiwan.

In May, hundreds of people protested against the EDCA pact outside the U.S. Embassy in Manila, on the same day that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House in Washington.

Three of these new sites are in the northern Philippines facing Taiwan, while one is in the island of Palawan facing the South China Sea. Meanwhile in Taiwan on Thursday, the defense ministry reported that 68 Chinese warplanes and 10 navy ships had been detected near the island, starting on Wednesday morning, the Agence France-Presse news agency reported.

The U.S. has added 63 projects for the EDCA sites on top of the previously approved 32, Aquilino said, adding that these projects include multipurpose storage facilities, road networks and fuel storage, among others.

The United States has identified investments of almost $110 million [6.2 billion pesos] to those sites to build capability capacity for the AFP [Armed Forces of the Philippines] to use every day and for the United States to fall in when invited, the admiral said.

For his part, Brawner said that the nine bases in total were meant for joint training as well as humanitarian and disaster-response operations, and were not related to regional security threats.

All of these joint operations, even the selection of our EDCA sites, have nothing to do with the other countries in the Indo-Pacific region, meaning the threats that could come out from these countries, Brawner said.

We believe that doing certain things together would bring more value, for instance training together, he said.

Laborers work at the airport in the town of Lal-lo, northern Philippines. Sept. 13, 2023. [Francis Malasig/European Pressphoto Agency/pool]

Meanwhile, China has ramped up its presence in the South China Sea. Beijing has deployed its China Coast Guard ships and maritime militia ships in the West Philippine Sea  the part of the South China Sea within Manilas jurisdiction  to harass Philippine ships, Filipino officials said.

U.S. Navy reconnaissance planes were seen flying over the disputed waters during recent Philippine resupply missions to Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal, where the World War II-era BRP Sierra Madre serves as Manilas military outpost in the disputed atoll.

Tour of three sites

On Wednesday, Brawner, Aquilino, and MaryKay Carlson, the U.S. ambassador to the Philippines, inspected three EDCA sites  Lal-lo airport and Camilo Osias Naval Base, both in Cagayan in northern Philippines, and Basa Air Base in Pampanga, near Manila.

Manila has called on Washington to construct a pier and refurbish the airstrip at the naval base along with a fuel storage facility and command center in Lal-lo airport.

We are not just looking at how we can operate together more efficiently, but also we are looking at the future operations that we are going to conduct, Brawner told reporters on Wednesday. All of these factors should come in as we decide on which projects were really going to pursue.

When the expanded EDCA was announced seven months ago, China immediately stated its opposition to the widened pact.

Such moves contradict the common aspiration of regional countries to seek peace, cooperation and development, and run counter to the common aspiration of the Filipino people to pursue sound economic recovery and a better life in cooperation with China, said Huang Xilian, Chinese ambassador to Manila in a statement issued in February.

It is hoped that the Philippine side stays vigilant and resists from being taken advantage of and dragged into troubled waters.
The Chinese Communist Partys Central Committee this week issued a planning document on turning Fujian  Chinas province closest to Taiwan  into a demonstration zone for integrated development with Taiwan.

State-owned nationalist tabloid the Global Times called the plan a blueprint for Taiwans development as the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong led the largest number of warships seen in years into the waters to the east of the island.

Large numbers of warplanes have been probing at Taiwans median line of defense, a tactic that seldom occurs in tandem with the collaborative deployment of an aircraft carrier group.

On Monday, Japans Ministry of Defense reported that another eight Peoples Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ships were transiting the Miyako Strait to enter the Philippine Sea, apparently to join forces with the carrier group, according to USNI News.

Taiwans Ministry of National Defense issued a release saying it would dispatch mission aircraft, ships and shore-based missile systems to respond appropriately.

China watchers reacted with some alarm to the simultaneous release of integration plans and the implementation of threatening military maneuvers.

Patricia M. Thornton, associate professor at the Oxford China Centre, called the news chilling, adding China had unveiled a Taiwan economic integration as warships conduct maneuvers off coast.

Beijing is brandishing the stick of naval and air power in the South China Sea, and has now unveiled a new carrot: a plan for closely integrating Taiwans economy with that of Fujian Province. So far, the Taiwanese are unimpressed, wrote the China Project on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Soldiers stand on the deck of a Chinese warship as it sails during a military drill near Fuzhou, Fujian province, near the Taiwan-controlled Matsu Islands, April 8, 2023. [Reuters]



In Taiwan a senior military official, Gen.Huang Wen-chi, told reporters on Tuesday the Shandong undoubtedly poses a new threat, even though it is not the first time the Shandong has sailed in waters east of Taiwan.

The last time it did so was in reaction to a meeting between Taiwan president Tsai Ing-wen and U.S. House speaker Kevin McCarthy earlier this year. Its suspected that the activities this week are a response to recent joint exercises between the U.S. and its allies, as well as recent transits of the Taiwan Strait.

Historic mission

Chinas planning statement on Fujian Provinces potential to integrate Taiwan says in its preamble that resolving the Taiwan question and realizing Chinas complete reunification is, for the party, a historic mission and an unshakable commitment, and is inevitable.

In 21 points that are unlikely to win over many Taiwanese investors  who are deeply suspicious of promises made by Beijing  the document outlines how the province of Fujian, which does share linguistic and cultural qualities with the majority Hokkien-speaking population of Taiwan, will play a leading role in the peaceful unification of the motherland.

Support for unification  or as the Peoples Republic of China calls it, reunification, even though it has never governed Taiwan  in Taiwan is low. Estimates vary depending on the poll and the perceived threat of China or the perceived benefits of business first, but on average in recent years only 8% to 12% of Taiwanese have a positive outlook on Chinese politics and want to see unification take place.

Beijing restaurant customers dine near a giant screen broadcasting news footage of the Air Force under the Eastern Theater Command of Chinas Peoples Liberation Army taking part in a combat readiness patrol around Taiwan, April 10, 2023. [Reuters]

Chinas new integration plan nevertheless optimistically calls on Taiwanese to apply for a Taiwan resident residency permit and buy homes in Fujian.

Our take: There wont be many takers, wrote Trivium in its daily China analysis newsletter on Wednesday.

Unification theme park

Parts of the latest announced plan date back to Chinas 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), which pointed to two platforms for integrated cross-Straits development.

At least one of them  the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone in Fujian  seems to still be on the agenda.

Pingtan, an island off the coast of Fuzhou, the provincial capital of Fujian now has a completed bridge and 68 Nautical Mile Scenic Spot  its distance from Taiwan  in keeping with plans to make the island a bring Taiwan home to the motherland theme park.

According to a translation of the new document, China appears to have plans for Pingtan that extend beyond unification-themed tourism, stating that the island will be used to build a more convenient cross-Strait traffic channel.

Tourists pose for pictures at the 68 nautical-mile scenic spot, one of mainland Chinas closest points to the island of Taiwan, Aug. 5, 2022. [Reuters]

For Taiwanese voters, who have become accustomed to a steady beat of threats and promises by China ever since the island held its first direct presidential elections in 1996 there is nothing new about developments this week.

As one commentator put it, Measures include making it easier for Taiwanese people to live and work in China, but the plan comes amid major military exercises.

New carrot, old stick, quipped at least one social media user.
First lady Kim Keon Hee speaks during a press conference held by animal advocacy groups at the Press Center in Seoul, Aug. 30. The press conference was held to call for a legislative ban on dog meat trade and consumption. Korea Times photo by Yun Seo-young



By Lee Hae-rin



Amid ongoing legislative pushes from the two main parties to ban the trade and consumption of dog meat, some ruling lawmakers have named the bill after the first lady, but are now facing a backlash - even from fellow party lawmakers.



Rep. Park Dae-chul of the ruling People Power Party (PPP), wrote on social media, Wednesday, "Now is the time to ban the dog meat trade  The PPP's position to push for the legislative ban on the dog meat trade remains unchanged," with the hashtags #KimKeonHeebill and #bandogmeat added in Korean.



Park, who is also the party's chief policymaker, also used the term "Kim Keon Hee's bill" earlier this month to refer to seven pending bill proposals during the National Assembly's general meeting, calling for lawmakers to support the cause.



The use of terminology is attributed to first lady Kim Keon Hee who has made efforts and conducted a campaign to end the country's contentious culture of eating dog meat.



However, the naming issue has drawn disapproval from within the PPP as Yoo Seong-min, a former floor leader of the party, criticized it as bootlicking.



"Those (PPP lawmakers) who have treated the president like a god and flattered him in a genius manner, are now flattering even the first lady," Yoo wrote on his social media, Wednesday.



He also said that he has never seen a piece of legislation named after a first lady, adding that the ruling party is overly conscious of the Yoon Suk Yeol administration to the point it regresses the free democratic country to a communist totalitarian state.



Rep. Hong Moon-pyo, a fellow PPP lawmaker, was also skeptical of the naming move, describing it as "not pure."



In response, Park fired back saying the terminology has already been used by animal advocacy groups and local media. He also cited the "Lady Bird's Bill" of the United States, a piece of legislation for controlling outdoor advertising and the protection of wildflowers, named after the wife of former President Lyndon Johnson.



PPP Rep. Lee Yong joined Park in opposition, arguing that naming a bill after a person is very common and can contribute effectively to its passing by maximizing promotion.



Park Kyung-mi, the former Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson, denounced the bill's name, saying that "an unelected power is taking control over the policy."



Former President Moon Jae-in first mentioned the need for a dog meat trade ban in September 2021 and pushed for inter-ministerial discussions to systematically eradicate illegal activities and end dog meat consumption, she said.



Meanwhile, the two major parties are likely to push for the ban to win the support of swing voters aged between 20 and 30 in the upcoming general election, according to the political circle.



A group of 44 lawmakers from the ruling PPP and opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) launched a non-parliamentary group for the banning of the dog meat trade last month.


Updated at 7:52 a.m. EDT on 2023-09-15

Between 80 and 100 heavily armed Myanmar junta soldiers have been stranded on Thai soil for more than a week after they crossed the border, prompting a Thai lawmaker to demand an explanation from his government for why they were allowed into the country  and why the Thai public hasnt been informed.

That kind of violation of Thailands state sovereignty by close to 100 Myanmar soldiers is a national issue, not a border matter, lawmaker Kannavee Suebsang, from the opposition Fair Party, told the Bangkok Post.

There were conflicting accounts and explanations given for the unusual situation.

Kannavee told Radio Free Asia, a news organization affiliated with BenarNews, that the Myanmar troops had crossed the border on Sept. 3 after they were repulsed by an attack by Karen National Liberation Army, or KNLA, troops on their Htee Kalae Pae camp in Kyainseikgyi township of Kawkareik district in Kayin state.

Rebel fighters on the border have prevented the Myanmar soldiers from returning to their base, he said. Kannavee said residents informed nearby Thai soldiers about the presence of Myanmar soldiers in Le Tong Khu village, though no action was taken, the Post reported.

After social media posts about the presence of Burmese soldiers, a Thai army team engaged in negotiations between the soldiers from Myanmar army and the ethnic armed group to stop preventing the Burmese troops from returning to Myanmar, the Post reported.

The Burmese soldiers are from battalions 561, 339 and 559 of the Southeast Region Command, and they have been in Thai territory since Sept. 3, a KNLA official said.

Thai lawmaker Kannavee Suebsang of the opposition Fair Party delivers a speech in the Thai Parliament in an undated photo. [Thai Parliament]

Conflicting accounts

A spokeswoman for the Royal Thai Army dismissed Kannavees claim that Thai soldiers allowed Burmese troops to enter the country.

The Thai armys Naresuan Task Force, which patrols border areas in Tak and Mae Hong Son provinces, keeps vigilant of the border with civilian government agencies, said Maj. Gen. Sirichan Ngathong. We did not find them, she said.

In reality, people commute along the borderlines and natural trails, so the Naresuan Task Force follows the traffic attentively with the border command centers in Tak and Mae Hong Son province to ensure sovereignty is not violated, she said.

The displaced Burmese soldiers are in a temporary safe zone and will return to yanmar voluntarily when the situation there is safe, she said.

But officers with the Karen National Union, the KNLAs political wing, said the junta soldiers did not flee from fighting, and instead had intentionally crossed the border to attack rebel positions from the Thai side.

They sneakily entered by using routes from Thailand in the past, said Maj. Saw Win Myint of the Venom Commando Army, a special unit under the Karen National Defense Organization, one of two military branches of the KNU.

It will be the same now, he said. They will do it to prepare offensives or defensives or not to lose their base. It is impossible to cross into Thailand while fighting.

RFA could not reach junta spokesman Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun for comment. The Tak district administration department did not respond to email inquiries.

Myanmar junta soldiers man a security hut in Kawkareik district in eastern Myanmars Kayin state in this photo released April 7, 2021. [Free Burma Rangers via AFP] Mistake?

In another take, pro-junta analysts said Burmese soldiers may have entered Thailand by mistake.

If they entered officially for joint military operations or exercises, then it would be official, said Thein Tun Oo, executive director of Myanmars pro-military Thayninga Institute of Strategic Studies. If not, [then] the crossing was an accident.

A Myanmar activist in Thailand told RFA that if Myanmar troops crossed the border and fled into Thai territory due to the fighting in Kayin state, it was because Thai military personnel allowed them to do so.

They are on good terms, so they were allowed to do so, he said. But it may be difficult for Burmese troops to enter Thailand because the parliament has raised questions, and the opposition has criticized it.

When fighting raged along the Thai-Myanmar border in 2022, a Myanmar Air Force's fighter jet intruded into Thai airspace, prompting discussion in the Thai Parliament, he added.

Although the Thai opposition MP said in the parliament that the border crossing was a violation of Thailands state sovereignty, the Thai military will not take any effective action since it has a good relationship with Myanmar, said Than Soe Naing, a political analyst.

Kannavee pointed out that Myanmar is violating their sovereignty, he said. It may be uncomfortable for the Thai army, but I dont think the Thai army will step up to tighten security.

This story has been updated to correct that in 2022 a Myanmar Air Force fighter jet intruded into Thai airspace.


Gov't should continue to raise issue of past with Japan



"The Japanese government has formally apologized to 'comfort women' and 'forced labor' victims and acknowledged the facts of wrongdoing."



That is part of the controversial opinion paper submitted to the ongoing 54th United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHCR) conference in Geneva, Switzerland.



Its author is not the Japanese but the Korean government.



The paper also said the Korean government has resolved or is resolving most past issues. But that raises some serious questions. Will former sex slaves mobilized by the Japanese Imperial Army and forced laborers agree? Why must the Korean government take the place of its Japanese counterpart to resolve historical issues? Should the former victims of colonization settle the past instead of the colonialists?



It was only natural that Korean NGOs stepped up to disclose and refute Seoul's opinion paper. "Not only has the Japanese government not offered a formal apology to the victims, but it denies committing crimes against humanity while not recognizing the victims' right to compensation," they said.



Most Koreans know which is closer to the facts. But President Yoon Suk Yeol and a handful of his "New Right" supporters think differently. Yoon says only the followers of "communist totalitarianism" criticize his pro-Japan policy. However, surveys show more than 70 percent of Koreans do not understand why Seoul must spend taxpayer money to make PR material endorsing Tokyo's release of treated radioactive water.



In an April interview with the Washington Post, Yoon said, "I cannot accept that (Japan) should be 'on its knees' over something that happened 100 years ago." Still, his administration goes all out to remove the bust of Hong Beom-do, a famous Liberation Army general who fought against Japanese occupiers, from the Korean Military Academy (KMA) grounds, saying he joined the Soviet communist party 100 years ago. It is one example showing how convenient this government's historical memory works.



Instead, the KMA has revived the webtoon of Paik Sun-yeop, who served in the Japanese army in Manchuria that suppressed independence fighters. General Paik's valor during the Korean War should be recognized. However, prioritizing anti-communists over anti-colonialists shows the incumbent government's historical and ideological identity. Yoon and his aides must realize theirs is the only government today that puts outdated ideology ahead of national interests. Winston Churchill joined hands with Josef Stalin to fight Adolf Hitler during WWII.



Some Koreans might think Japan could seldom ask for more. They are dead wrong. Tokyo has reportedly allocated about 300 million yen (2.7 billion won) in next year's budget on PR expenses for sovereignty-related issues, including the Dokdo Islets. The Yoon administration slashed outlays for Dokdo-related research by 25 percent to 380 million won.



Despite thawing bilateral relations, Tokyo has intensified its historical and legal claims over Dokdo in the East Sea (Takeshima in the Sea of Japan in its version). Every year, Tokyo repeats such claims in diplomatic and defense papers. Seoul protests, but it does little more.



Previous governments did so strategically to avoid falling for Japan's ploy to turn Dokdo into an international dispute. However, our incumbent leader does not seem to care at all. Since he took office 16 months ago, Yoon has never mentioned the islets. Even former President Lee Myung-bak, whom many believe is Yoon's role model, infuriated Tokyo by visiting Dokdo and demanding an apology from the Japanese emperor. It was due mainly to political calculations, freezing bilateral ties for a decade, and inviting criticism from liberals and conservatives.



Most Koreans do not want their leaders to go that far. Of course, they do not have to worry about such possibilities under this government, for good or worse.



Cooperation between Korea and Japan is essential when this divided peninsula's security environment changes rapidly. However, few, if any, Koreans will think Seoul must improve ties with Tokyo by remaining indifferent to the past.



There will come a time, sooner or later, when Koreans can no longer endure what they view as Yoon's gutless and spineless diplomacy toward Japan.



It is not certain whether Yoon will stick to his present policy or abruptly turn things around, as his mentor, Lee, did. Either way, it will be disastrous for Seoul, Tokyo  and Washington.




Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Partly cloudy this evening, then some snow showers after midnight. Low 32F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 40%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening, then some snow showers after midnight. Low 32F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 40%.
Last week, a good friend came over for dinner, and I opened a bottle from a case of wine I bought 10 years ago.

It was a bottle of white Burgundy, a 2008 premier cru Chassagne-Montrachet, and I had high expectations for it. Even though it seemed like a relative bargain when I purchased it  probably $40 or $50, it was from a top vineyard and a top grower.

As soon as we pulled the cork, we knew we were in for a treat. White Burgundy, at its most beguiling, has smells and flavors that are hard to describe. The best bottles are positively loaded with hints and ethereal suggestions. Both white and red Burgundy, especially, usually make me feel a little like Im standing in a field of wild herbs and spices. Whites can smell like lavender, lemongrass, beeswax and thyme, among other things.

Sign up for the In The Berkshires This Week newsletter Sign up

Of course, a bottle like that can take hold of a whole evening, and it did for us; we drank it as slowly as we could, with my friends roasted chicken, potatoes and greens. Another thing about a very great wine is that it is always the right amount. Half a bottle of something spectacular never leaves me wanting more. The nights when I drink too much are the nights when nothing on the table is excellent.

How astonished I was, a couple of days later, when I was broadsided with the latest reminder of what I have heard from friends in the industry: Burgundy prices have gone crazy. An online search to check in on the wine we had drunk a few nights prior yielded shocking news: any available bottles of it, from any shop in the country and from any vintage, now costs more than $500 per bottle.

I cant plead ignorance or even surprise when it comes to what has happened with the prices of some wines over the last several years. An old friend in the wine business tells a story about the day in the early 1980s when he started importing the wines of a renowned grower in Chambolle-Musigny. The man explained that he had a single barrel of wine to offer, about 25 cases, or 300 bottles, from one of his top vineyards. Forty years later, my friend explains, in the face of exploding interest in these wines from markets all over the world, that vignerons daughter still has just that one barrel to offer every year. People from Topeka to Hong Kong have gone crazy for the wines, but the grapevines dont seem to have noticed!

The good news, and there is some very good news, is that the world remains full of bargain wines. The same friend who told the story about the one available barrel, perhaps in the same breath, offered the same advice: think about whats coming next. Which family growers from below-the-radar regions have been making spectacular, age-worthy wines for years, and for whatever reason have not yet felt the demands of thirsty new markets?

In the last couple of weeks, I have been lucky enough to taste new wines with vendors, as my new restaurant, Heirloom Lodge in West Stockbridge, inches closer to fruition. As I tasted through a selection of top Beaujolais wines from the 2021 vintage  which is destined to go down as one of the greats  it occurred to me that the prices of wines from Beaujolais have yet to blast off the way that much of the rest of Burgundy has. And while it may be the case that the best bottles from Morgon or Brouilly will never rival the masterpieces of Chassagne-Montrachet or Chambolle-Musigny, the wines from the top Beaujolais appellations are still plentiful, to say nothing of seriously delicious, and virtually never cost more than $30 or $40 per bottle in a shop.

Whats more, while the best Beaujolais can age just as beautifully as top Burgundy bottlings, virtually none of it requires the patience that is appropriately devoted to the more famous wines of the northern part of the region. So whether you, scrupulous buyer, decide to squirrel a case or two away for a decade, or perhaps make an impetuous decision to crack a bottle on a random Tuesday night, a panoply of quite pleasant tastes and smells awaits.
Pittsfield Cooperative Bank recently made a $1,000 donation to Goodwill Industries of the Berkshires Soar to Success program. From left, Kathy Anker, Goodwill vice president of mission services; bank President and CEO Jay Anderson; Dana Robb, bank vice president of branch administration; Kelly Brennan, Goodwill director of mission services; Joe Maffuccio II, bank vice president, branch administration; and Pam Bennett of Goodwill training and management accommodations.
In the wake of the Josh Billings cancellation, Eagle sports editor and paddler for Dad Bod Trio Mike Walsh took a long time to get back on his board.
Xi's Imprint on the Era | "Mother's Heart"

People's Daily Online) 10:35, September 14, 2023

This sewing kit, just slightly larger than the palm of a hand, features a subtle yellow hue and is adorned with characters reading "Niangdexin" (meaning "Mother's Heart") embroidered in vibrant red thread.

In 1969, Xi Jinping, who was not yet even 16, packed his bags and went to Liangjiahe in northern Shaanxi.

Before departure, his mother Qi Xin made this sewing kit for him.

It was a common household item in China in those days, as clothes would get worn out when people did physical work, making sewing a necessary life skill.

During his seven years in Liangjiahe, Xi honed his abilities and grew up, always carrying this small gift from his mother with him.

After taking up a leadership position, Xi became increasingly busy, and was very rarely able to go home to be with his mother. She would call to comfort him and said: "The best way to show your parents your filial piety is to do well at work."

Xi loves his mother very much.

Whenever he can, he spends as much time with her as possible.

Many Chinese people remember that on the bookshelf in Xi's office, there is a photo of him walking with his mother.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang)
LG CNS CEO Hyun Shin-gyoon, right, poses with Korea University President Kim Dong-one at the latter's office in Seoul, Wednesday, after signing a partnership agreement. LG said Thursday that it agreed with the university to establish a recruitment-linked department to foster data science and AI professionals starting next year, enabling graduate students to work for the company. Courtesy of LG CNS
The expanded campus will add 1000 new jobs

K.T. Rama Rao, Minister for Municipal Administration & Urban Development, Industries & Commerce, and Information Technology, Telangana Government recently attended the ground-breaking ceremony for expanded campus of Syngene International in Genome Valley Hyderabad, being set up with a total investment of Rs 788 crore, offering employment opportunities worth 1000.

"The R&D campus of Syngene in Genome Valley has grown 4 times and now houses more than 900 scientists. Genome Valley is regarded as the epicenter for drug discovery and development services in Asia, and Syngene's expansion has further solidified Hyderabad's status as a hub for R&D in India", said the Minister.



Spread across 17.5 acres, Syngene will host 16.5 lakh sq. ft. state-of-the-art R&D labs and manufacturing facilities in this expanded campus in Genome Valley, Hyderabad.

"The Minister's visionary leadership has created a world class ecosystem for Life Sciences & Syngene International Limited is thrilled to expand in scale and add another 1000 jobs", said Dr Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Executive Chairperson, Biocon & Biocon Biologics.
Marcus Moshapalo and his 20-year career is nothing short of inspiring. With a remarkable track record that includes working with renowned brands like Nando's, Vodacom, Hunter's, McDonald's, and Motorola, he has excelled in roles such as art director and copywriter.

Unsurprisingly, he stands as one of the most sought-after executive creative directors in the nation. In this interview, he shares insights into his exciting new position at Net#work BBDO as executive creative director.

Marcus Moshapalo talks new role at Net#work BBDO. Source: SUpplied.

Congrats on the new job, what made you move to Net#work BBDO?

Thank you. I have always revered Net#work BBDO as one of the most creative agencies out there, some of my favourite work comes from here. I now find myself here, finally having the opportunity to work for this agency I have always admired. It was a no-brainer for me.

What are you most excited about in your new role?

There is a lot of responsibility on my part. I am filling some very big shoes. This challenge frightens and excites me. Thats when I feel I do my best work.

What inspires you to put out the award-winning work you do?

Mostly envy and admiration. Theres always something that comes along that is so amazing and awe-inspiring that it sets a new benchmark to work towards.

Unsurprisingly, he stands as one of the most sought-after executive directors in the nation. In this interview, he shares insights into his exciting new position at Net#work BBDO.

Over your 20 years of experience, what do you think is the most challenging part of this industry? What has changed and what has remained the same?

Budgets are shrinking and deadlines are getting tighter with the advent of social media (amongst other things). The newer challenge has become delivering quality work timeously in a much more saturated environment. What hasnt changed is the expertise we offer. I feel you can always tell when someone decided to do something themselves vs something that has the expert touch.

What have been the best moments of your career?

There have been so many, but if I absolutely had to pick I would say it has been the international exposure. The two highlights would be the three weeks I spent at Droga 5 Australia, and at the TBWA Nissan global pitch in Finland.

What excites you most about the industry right now?

Adapting to the new landscape that is mostly geared towards social media. We are in the age of a much more direct form of marketing. Im excited about the possibilities.

Any advice for newbies in the industry who look up to you?

Trust your gut. I think on many occasions when I didnt speak up on what ultimately was a bad decision. Things played out almost exactly how I had predicted them in my mind. You wont always get it right, but at the very least you wont have this nagging feeling that you could have avoided something totally unnecessary.
In a remarkable achievement this year, Membrana Media successfully attained the highly sought-after status of Google Certified Publishing Partner (GCPP). This prestigious recognition was a significant milestone for our company, aligning with our global expansion ambitions.

Earning the Google Certified Publishing Partner badge is a testament to Membrana Media's commitment to excellence. While our technical stack remains unchanged, this achievement holds immense value for our global reputation and prestige. Securing The Top 50 position in the video monetisation category highlights the depth of our integration with Google and serves as a prominent testament to our demonstrated expertise in the field.

This achievement underscores our commitment to maintaining high standards, distinguishing us in the constantly evolving video production environment.

Membrana Media continues to pioneer new avenues for publishers to monetise digital content and elevate user engagement.

Why pursue this?

Becoming a GCPP is a rational decision rooted in the desire to expand our advertising capabilities by collaborating with one of the giants in the advertising industry. This partnership has not only widened our market opportunities but also helped strengthen our presence on the global stage.

GCPP status allows us to differentiate ourselves as a certified Google partner. This creates an additional layer of trust among potential clients and partners, recognising our expertise and ability to provide high-quality advertising services with Google's set of tools.

The way to GCPP: Our experience

The journey to GCPP status typically involves several steps. That's how it happened with us:

Application: Start by applying to the multi-channel (MC) programme to become a Channel Partner. Qualification: After a year in the MC programme, qualify for GCPP with a quality score above zero. Access to partner portal: Gain access to Google's specialised partner portal, providing essential resources and tools. Examination: Pass the online exam consisting of 59 questions related to Google's advertising products and policies, achieving a minimum score of 85%. Team participation: Ensure that three or more team members pass the exam. GCPP designation: After successfully meeting these criteria, earn the Google Certified Publishing Partner status.



Challenges you might face, and maintaining GCPP status

Maintaining GCPP status requires vigilance and adherence to Google's highest standards. Companies must consistently demonstrate quality and ethics, as quality score plays a pivotal role. However, our journey from application to certification took approximately three months, emphasising the importance of proactivity, adaptability and persistence.

Benefits GCPP status brought us

Members of our team can individually register on this partner portal under Membrana Media, gaining access to various programmes, exams, marketing channels, and events. Additionally, as partners, we receive exclusive notifications from Google regarding a range of events.

Earning GCPP status offers a range of benefits from Google:

Account management and executive support:



Dedicated strategic partner manager;



Access to exclusive Google products and capabilities;



Regular business reviews.

Technical support and training:

Insights into Google's product roadmap and early feature access;



Tailored training programmes;



Exclusive access to the learning database;



Membership in the global Google Certified Publishing Partner community.

Business development and marketing:

Partner badge recognition;



Inclusion in the Google Partner gallery;



Product certifications;



Exclusive co-marketing opportunities with Google (publisher events);



Access to marketing materials and support.

The recognition of our company and its quality is akin to earning a Michelin star for a restaurant. Both these statuses signify reputation and image, but they need to be consistently upheld to maintain high recognition and reputation in the digital industry.

That's why we are committed to strengthening our partnership with Google. Recently, Julia Kuznetsova, our demand performance and monetisation manager, attended a Google conference in Ireland. Such events are a regular practice for us, as we continually receive invitations and actively participate in such gatherings.

Preventing GCPP loss

To avoid losing GCPP status, companies must uphold quality and adhere to Google's standards. Quality score, regularly updated, monitors performance and should not drop significantly. Violations, such as policy breaches or substantial fraud, can lead to revocation, but Google typically provides time for rectification.

Membrana Media's plans for the future

With GCPP status achieved, Membrana Media is eager to continue its partnership with Google. Our ambitious next step is to attain Premium status. This ongoing journey motivates us to continuously improve our skills and uphold the highest standards in collaboration with Google. Our commitment to growth and excellence in digital advertising remains unwavering.

Beyond our pursuit of excellence, Membrana Media is dedicated to supporting South African publishers in their efforts to monetise video content and enhance user engagement. We are eager to extend our expertise and collaborate with publishers in South Africa, contributing to the growth and success of their digital ventures.

In conclusion, Membrana Media's journey to Google Certified Publishing Partner status is a testament to our dedication to quality and professionalism in the world of digital advertising. It's a significant achievement that marks the beginning of an exciting path toward even greater accomplishments.




The City of Cape Town has launched a marketing magazine to put the mother city on the international map.

The magazine was launched on Wednesday. Source: Karabo Ledwaba.

This is Cape Town was officially launched on Wednesday by Mayoral Committee Member for economic growth James Vos.

Months of work

This magazine was in the works many months ago. It spotlights all the unique features that makes Cape Town a city of choice," he said.

Edited by Wendy Van der Byl, the first edition features content from contributors: Cape Town City Ballet, Cape Philharmonic Orchestra, Cape Town Opera, Cape Town Fashion Council, City of Cape Town, Department of Energy, Department of Enterprise and Investment, Department of Arts and Culture, Destination Marketing Unit, Invest Cape Town, City Hall and Cape Town Tourism.

He added: The idea with this magazine, which is the brainchild of the marketing team, is to inspire people from key source markets with authentic, valuable and unique stories that reveal the people, places and products of Cape Town. We are showing the world what this City brings to the world of arts and culture, design, sustainable energy, fashion, education, adventure and so much more.

Availability

Vos said the magazine is funded by his department and hopes it will be published annually.

There will definitely be a volume two and if I have it my way there will be more because there are trends, there are new markets emerging, there is so much happening in the Cape Town economic landscape. To stay current and relevant there needs to be future editions.

He said the magazine will be available at airport lounges in South Africa, passengers on Kenya Airways will also have access to it after the city signed an agreement with the city of Nairobi during a trade mission.

We will also take this magazine to international platforms like the world travel market in London and the world travel market Africa. This will also be accessible online through a qr code that can also be downloaded online.

Vos said ultimately the magazine is part of a plan to drive more visitors and investors to the City.

I am confident that with all the things we are doing it will boost our numbers over the long term, he said.
POSCO International's traction motor cores / Courtesy of POSCO International



By Park Jae-hyuk



POSCO International signed contracts with Hyundai Motor Group to supply an additional 3.53 million traction motor cores to the automotive group's factories in Korea and the U.S., the POSCO Group affiliate said, Thursday.



In particular, POSCO International Mexico e-Mobility will supply 1.09 million traction motor cores for the front wheels of electric vehicles (EVs) and 1.63 million rear-wheel traction motor cores to Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America in the U.S. state of Georgia from 2026 to 2034.



For the carmaker's domestic production, POSCO Mobility Solution, a subsidiary of POSCO International, will supply 810,000 rear-wheel traction motor cores for EVs from 2026 to 2036.



As a result, the combined size of Hyundai Motor Group's orders for POSCO International's traction motor cores since last November reached 1.04 million units.



The components will be used in next-generational hybrid SUVs and flagship EVs.



POSCO International attributed its achievement to POSCO Mobility Solution's technologies and infrastructures, as well as POSCO's high-quality hyper non-oriented electrical steel, one of the most important materials for motor cores.



POSCO Mobility Solution is known as Korea's leading traction motor core manufacturer, while POSCO is the nation's only producer of hyper non-oriented electrical steel, which improves the energy efficiency of products incorporating its steel.



"Through collaborations with Korea's leading companies, we will continuously expand our presence in the global eco-friendly mobility market," a POSCO International official said.



POSCO International aims to annually produce 5 million traction motor cores outside of Korea by 2030, through its manufacturing facilities to be built in China, Mexico, Poland and India. The plan is intended to overcome trade barriers in the EV industry and to satisfy the demands of carmakers.


With the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the DTIC), global automotive manufacturer Stellantis has confirmed its intention to develop a greenfield manufacturing facility in Coega situated near Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape.

Seated from left to right: Ebrahim Patel, Samir Cherfan | Standing from left to right: Kwezzi Tiya, Malebo Mabitje-Thompson, Imran Sayed, Leslie Ramsoomar | Source: Supplied

Minister Ebrahim Patel, senior officials from the IDC and Samir Cherfan, Stellantis Middle East and Africa chief operating officer, met at the parliament buildings in Cape Town to agree on investment in the South African motor industry.

The greenfield manufacturing project is planned to be completed by the end of 2025.

The first launch planned for early 2026 is a one-ton pick-up truck with volumes expected to reach up to 50,000 completely knocked down (CKD's) units annually including export, in line with the industry masterplan, the Automotive Production Development Program (APDP).

The plant will be predisposed in terms of space and painting to go up to 90,000 units/year.

Direct employment to support the first capacity step is expected at 1,000 jobs.

Stellantis will be massively investing in over 500,000 hours of training and skills to develop and support the local teams to the level of global standards.

We are targeting a localisation rate over 30%, Stellantis said in a statement.

Khwezi Tiya, CEO of the Coega Development Corporation (CDC), said:

This is a much-needed and welcomed economic boost for the Eastern Cape Province with an anticipated economy-wide impact on the provinces GDP of R664m. Household income is anticipated to increase to R558.4m within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) and R577.4m or the entire province. Most importantly, an anticipated 1,800 jobs will be created in the Metro and around 2097 for the EC Province. The CDC is enthralled for Stellantis to have chosen the proposed site in Coega for their Southern African manufacturing operations. Joining other major manufacturers in the area makes the Coega region the primary automotive hub in the country. The investment in the plant, employment, training and skills transfer will certainly benefit the region tremendously.

It is a wonderful day for all South Africans when a global company of Stellantis proportions decides to expand its manufacturing footprint in South Africa, to assemble completely knocked down units, said Ebrahim Patel, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.

South Africa currently has the capacity to produce close to 700,000 vehicles annually. This will add considerable additional capacity, just as we prepare to implement the African Continental Free Trade Area.

The country remains a great investment destination and this commitment from Stellantis to invest in our local motor industry highlights the success of our manufacturing sector policy, its capability and potential. We look forward to welcoming Stellantis to South Africa and sharing in the detailed plan for employment and investment, Patel said.
In line with the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the movement from localised job markets to a global job market, technology is having a significant influence on the future world of work, with artificial intelligence taking centre stage when it comes to automating business processes.

"This will have a significant impact when we asses this over a five- or 10-year horizon. If South African skills are going to remain relevant in this future, there is a growing need for technology-based skills, and qualifications, says Paresh Soni, director of the MANCOSA School of Information and Digital Technology (SIDT).

In light of this, MANCOSA designed Estrella to be South Africa's First Postgraduate Diploma in Artificial Intelligence. This futuristic programme will address the shortage of AI skills in the country as employers are looking for employees who have deeply rooted tech skills as well as the transferable skills that are harnessed through technology-based qualifications," says Soni.

Digital skills for the world of tomorrow

Earlier this year, a report titled "Africa's Tech Skills Scarcity Revealed" (released by SAP) pointed out that there has been no improvement in South Africa's chronic shortage of all types of ICT skills across almost all sectors. In fact, the ICT skills gap continues to widen, hindering the continent's digital transformation efforts.

"This cannot continue. AI remains one of the top priority skills for South Africa, especially as the country aims to remain globally relevant and competitive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). South Africa also has ambitions to position itself as a continental leader in the Gig Economy, which requires digital skills," says Soni.

He adds that while the PGDipAI will address the shortage of artificial intelligence skills in the country, Estrella has been specifically designed to be relevant for students across all MANCOSA course offerings.

Rapid evolution

Roxanne Bosch, director of MANCOSA's Centre for Innovation (Cfi), points out that online education has evolved rapidly and significantly over the past five years. However, much of the evolution has been based on technology that has advanced at an incredibly rapid pace rather than being based on how online education better meets the needs of a modern student.

"Ranking online programmes based on the technology ecosystems that help deliver education is akin to ranking traditional, contact institutions based on their classrooms and libraries. Bearing in mind the significant disruption we have seen over the past two years, we can appreciate how this is a difficult task," says Bosch, who adds that this is at the heart of the current tertiary education value debate.

Bosch adds that MANCOSA is testing assumptions that have been entrenched in higher education for decades. Some of the critical questions we have asked ourselves in the design of this programme are:

What does the optimal academic calendar look like? Is it still based on semesters?



What material do students want to learn by themselves and what material do they want to be presented to them?



Can augmented reality and simulations lead to better educational outcomes for students?



Can technology cater for different learning needs? and



What type of assessments promote skills acquisition and knowledge retention are aligned to making students more employable?

"Technology has changed the global skills narrative. Companies used to be limited to geographical skill sets. This has now changed in that a company in the USA can enhance their organisational structure with South African skills. It is now up to South African tertiary education providers to ensure their students have the best possible qualifications backed up by the transferable skills companies seek. Transferable skills encourage employees to work independently and manage their own time and support the development of cross-functional abilities, including the ability to work with teams across geographical borders and cultures. These skills are becoming highly desirable by employers," says Bosch.

Addressing the value debate

Mohamed Goga, MANCOSA MD, pointed out that Estrella is an example of how MANCOSA is trying to address the current debate around the tertiary education value mode and reposition tertiary education for the modern world.

"In a digitally driven environment, online education serves an important purpose of equipping the workforce with the knowledge and skills required to progress in a future world of work. MANCOSA is committed to delivering value to its students while pursuing the realisation of its vision of education for a better world for all," says Goga.

Applications for the MANCOSA PGDipAI open on 30 September.




The South African Centre for Digital Language Resources (SADiLaR) is collaboratively launching an exciting new initiative with the world's largest encyclopedia, Wikipedia, and the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB), to promote and celebrate the use of South African languages.

Known in short as SWiP (for SADiLaR-Wikipedia-PanSALB), the project seeks to encourage South Africas broad community of language users, especially those of languages that are underrepresented, to actively contribute their knowledge to the free Wikipedia platform. This is in line with UNESCOs International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022  2032), a global effort to draw attention to the critical situation of many indigenous languages, and to mobilise communities and resources for their preservation, revitalisation and promotion.

A language is alive and well when it is used, says SADiLaRs Director of Operations Juan Steyn. The SWiP project provides access to the broader community, not just the academic sector, to take part in preserving our African languages, and will contribute to opening up access to knowledge in multiple languages.

According to PanSALBs chief executive officer, Lance Schultz, the goal is to ensure that communities without access to printed media can still access electronic formats. As we enter the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), organisations like PanSALB and SADiLaR are exploring ways to increase indigenous languages footprint in digital media. By ensuring that communities without access to written material can still access electronic formats, we allow individuals to learn at their own pace and acquire language skills and knowledge within a multilingual space, he comments.

Protecting indigenous languages from disappearing over time

The official launch of SWiP will take place on Wednesday, 20 September 2023 at UNISAs Main Campus (Muckleneuk) in Pretoria, and the project is scheduled to run from October 2023 to October 2024.

The first cycle of the project will focus on in-depth Wikipedia authorship training at 10 universities across the country, whereas the second cycle will comprise one-day events to allow for trained participants to run their own training events, Steyn explains.

According to Bobby Shabangu, president of Wikimedia ZA (the South African chapter of Wikimedia movement), there is a serious lack of online presence when it comes to South African languages and content.

The majority of Africans read from the internet rather than contribute towards it. This project is a great initiative to help preserve South African indigenous languages from disappearing over time. It is creating a platform for people to contribute to their preservation and is aiming for a long-term documentation and preservation of their languages, he remarks.

Shining a spotlight on isiNdebele

Wikipedia is a non-profit organisation that relies heavily on volunteers to write, translate and review content. A recent summary of the status of Wikipedia articles in South African languages and the biggest contributors for each language in 2022 (compiled by Wikimedia ZA member Ian Gilfillan) shows that, other than English and Afrikaans, isiZulu has the highest number of articles, followed by Sepedi (Northern Sotho), isiXhosa, Sesotho, Setswana, Tshivenda, Xitsonga, siSwati, and isiNdebele (incubator only) in the last place.

Even in the more active South African languages on Wikipedia, there are really not a lot of contributors compared to the speaker communities, Steyn says. This project aims to increase contributors in all languages but with a special focus on isiNdebele, given that it is still listed as being in the incubator stage with very few articles and authors working on the language.

It is for this reason that the official launch event of SWiPwillshine a spotlight specifically on isiNdebele to encourage amaNdebele communities to actively participate in contributing to Wikipedia and in this way address the serious lack of articles on Wikipedia.

We hope that by the end, of what we trust will become a yearly project through strong collaborating partners, isiNdebele will move from incubator to an active Wikipedia language, Steyn adds.

Utilising platforms such as Wikipedia is crucial because it has a large presence in South Africa and internationally, Schultz says. Wikipedia provides a valuable platform for preserving and promoting indigenous languages due to its extensive knowledge base. Additionally, we recognise the importance of prioritising languages like isiNdebele that lack articles on Wikipedia. Through our partnership with SADiLaR and Wikipedia, we aim to build a strong repository for these languages.

Get involved

Individuals: Are you passionate about languages, culture, and the power of written expression? By joining the SWiP authorship training programme, you can learn how to actively contribute to the preservation of South Africas indigenous languages by writing new content, translating and reviewing existing content, or fixing any typos you may come across. The SWiP project team will be in touch with identified universities to confirm dates for workshops. Find out more here or direct your enquiries to gro.ralidas@piws.

Companies: Organisations and prospective partners can get involved by hosting authorship workshops; sponsoring travel costs of Wikipedia trainers, venue, and catering for workshops; and featuring the project on their communication platforms, as part their companys corporate social responsibility programmes. Contact gro.ralidas@piws to get started.

*Shout-out to FlySAA for being one of the first companies to contribute to this project by offering discounted flights to workshop trainers in KwaZulu-Natal and Cape Town. We are very grateful.

For enquiries, please contact:

Ms Lihle Sosibo

Communication Manager (SADiLaR)

Tel: (+27) 18 285 2870 | Cell: (+27) 64 684 9281

Email: az.ca.uwn@obisos.elhil

OR

Ms Musa Baloyi-Sekese

Deputy Director: Communications (PanSALB)

Tel: 012 341 9638 Mobile:071 265 2880

Email: gro.blasnap@asum

Interested in attending the SWiP launch?

RSVP: gro.ralidas@piws

Venue: Winnie Mandela Senate Hall, UNISAs Main Campus (Muckleneuk), Pretoria,

Date: 20 September 2023




With retirement reforms finally taking shape in South Africa, the demand for skilled professionals within the retirement fund industry is continuously on the rise. However, through engagements with industry stakeholders, a concern was raised that South Africa is currently facing a significant scarcity of fund accountants within the sector. This article delves into the reasons behind this scarcity, its potential impacts on the industry and the broader economy, and what steps can be taken to address this pressing issue.

Author: Kedibone Sono, Saica Project Director, Members in Business Technical

Retirement funds and asset management play a vital role in South Africa's financial sector. With an aging population and a growing middle class eager to secure their financial futures, the industry is expanding rapidly. As a result, the need for highly trained professionals, such as fund accountants, has never been greater. Fund accountants have a unique set of skills, combining expertise in accounting, finance, and investment analysis to ensure efficient management and tracking of investment portfolios. Fund accountants assist in corporations efforts with transparency and accountability by reporting and tracking how funds are doing and by ensuring funds are compliant.

The scarcity of fund accountants

The industry is struggling with recruiting and retaining accountants which is affecting their reporting, including the quality of reports being received by the regulators. Funds have various reports that are due to the regulator monthly and or quarterly and the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) indicated that they have been inundated with extension requests and the reason for these was partly due to the overloaded fund accountants.

Firstly, there is a limited pool of suitably qualified individuals. Becoming a fund accountant requires in-depth knowledge and understanding of various accounting standards, investment principles, and regulatory frameworks, making it a specialised field within finance. The shortage of programmes and educational opportunities that specifically focus on fund accounting exacerbates the scarcity.

The allure of alternative career paths within the financial sector also draws talent away from fund accounting. Fields such as investment banking, private equity, and corporate finance often offer higher salaries and are perceived prestige, which decreases the number of professionals willing to pursue careers as fund accountants.

There is also a lack of awareness regarding the role and its importance which hinders the development of this profession. For most fund accountants the role is not their first choice, it rather is an accidental career path that they stumbled upon and thus a need for awareness for the role is necessary. Many young professionals and students are simply unaware of the opportunities and growth potential that exist within the retirement funds and asset management industry, thereby reducing the number of individuals entering the field.

The segregation of duties within the role further complicates the scarcity being experienced, some fund accountants are only exposed to certain duties, e.g. contribution or benefits whereby the fuller picture of the role is foreign, resulting in further skill set needs for a rounded accountant.

There are more limitations than the ones mentioned, and the systems employed by each institution are another potential hindrance. Funds procure a variety of systems that they deem would cater to their specific needs, rendering it difficult for one fund accountant to easily move within the industry and thus affecting potential growth where they feel they have reached a ceiling in their current employment.

The scarcity of fund accountants could have dire consequences for the industry and the broader economy. Without a sufficient number of skilled professionals, funds face challenges in accurately valuing and tracking investment portfolios. This, in turn, can lead to inaccuracies in financial reporting, potential regulatory violations, and an increased exposure to risk. Factoring the latest developments within the industry where reforms are finally being implemented, there is a further need to upskill which could further exacerbate the skills scarcity.

Moreover, as fund accountants report on funds financial performance which informs strategic decisions that focus on growth, the lack of fund accountants to oversee investment portfolios may hinder the ability of retirement funds to generate competitive returns on investments. This can affect the retirement savings of countless individuals who rely on these funds to secure their financial futures. Additionally, the diminished capacity for analysis and reporting caused by the scarcity of fund accountants may deter potential investors, leading to reduced capital inflow into the sector.

Potential solutions

To combat the scarcity of fund accountants, concerted efforts must be made by industry stakeholders, educational institutions, and the government. Educational institutions should consider developing specialised programmes that specifically focus on fund accounting, ensuring that they meet the evolving needs of the industry. Collaborations between universities, relevant industry bodies and retirement funds could facilitate the design of programmes that better equip graduates for careers as fund accountants.

A greater awareness campaign should be launched to promote the opportunities and significant role played by fund accountants within retirement funds and asset management. This can be achieved through career fairs, industry seminars, and internships that expose students and young professionals to the field. Lastly, government support and incentives for retirement funds and asset management companies can encourage the hiring and development of fund accountants. Tax incentives, subsidies for training programmes, and active engagement with industry bodies can all contribute to nurturing a larger pool of fund accounting talent.

The scarcity of fund accountants within the retirement funds and asset management fields in South Africa is an issue that requires immediate attention. With the regulatory changes such as the COFI Bill, two pot system, and the Regulation 28 amendments underway to attract even more participants within the industry, these have raised a need to prioritise education, generate awareness, and implement supportive policies. South Africa can begin to bridge this gap, ensuring the industry can sustain its growth and continue providing robust financial services to individuals seeking a secure retirement.




Breast milk has long been acknowledged as nature's perfect food for infants. Its unique properties continue to benefit children long after their mothers have stopped breastfeeding.

Image supplied

For working women, breastfeeding is easy and convenient to do while they are on maternity leave, but it becomes significantly more challenging when they return to work.

What many South African working and breastfeeding mothers dont know, however, is that they are protected by law.

According to CRS Technologies HCM business unit head Nicol Myburgh, the Basic Conditions of Employment Act and its Code of Good Practice on the Protection of Employees during Pregnancy and After the Birth of a Child offers two-fold protection.

Identify, review and mitigate any risks

Firstly, employers are prohibited from requiring or allowing a breastfeeding employee to perform work that is harmful to her health or that of her child, he explains.

Consequently, employers must identify, review and mitigate any risks that may negatively impact the health of breastfeeding employees and that of their babies. This could include exposure to noise, heavy physical work, standing for long periods, as well as contact with harmful chemical substances, bacteria and viruses.

Secondly, the Code of Good Practice states that the employer should make arrangements for two 30-minute breastfeeding or milk expression breaks a day for the first six months of the childs life. These breaks are in addition to their usual tea and/or lunch breaks.

A private, comfortable and hygienic space

While the code doesnt stipulate that employers must provide mothers with the necessary resources to accommodate their needs for breastfeeding or expressing milk, Myburgh recommends that employers follow the guidelines of the International Labour Organisation, which states that where practical, provision should be made for the establishment of facilities for breastfeeding under adequate hygienic conditions at or near the workplace.

Essentially, this means a private, comfortable and hygienic space with enough room in which to sit down, as well as a secure storage facility for the expressed milk.

Note that a toilet is not suitable for this purpose, he adds. Ideally, the room should be equipped with comfortable seating, electrical outlets for breast pumps, a fridge for milk storage and a sink for washing equipment.

Supporting breastfeeding employees is not only the right thing to do, it also makes good business sense for employers, Myburgh continues.

Studies show that breastfeeding can reduce medical costs for the mother and her child. This equates to reduced absenteeism from work because the babies of breastfeeding employees become ill less often and less severely.

Fostering a culture of understanding for breastfeeding mothers not only helps to ease their stress about returning to work, but those employers who take proactive steps to support them create a positive work environment that promotes work-life balance, employee well-being and productivity. This can enhance loyalty to the company and lead to higher employee retention, Myburgh concludes.
Liquid Intelligent Technologies on Wednesday announced the launch of two new fully redundant terrestrial routes - Kenya to Ethiopia and Zambia to Malawi. This development is set to enhance efficiency and reliable regional connectivity, both crucial for the economic growth of these countries.

The fibre link between Kenya and Ethiopia spans over 1,000km and will provide businesses in Ethiopia with access to data centres and cloud services in Nairobi. This ensures that data remains within the continent. Additionally, the 711 km cross-border link between Zambia and Malawi offers a direct and reliable connection to content caches and data centres in South Africa.

These strategic initiatives by Liquid are expected to significantly contribute to the digital transformation journey of these regions by providing reliable and efficient connectivity solutions.

Kenyan and Ethiopian businesses are rapidly adopting digital technologies, and this new link will enable trade and investment between these two great nations in our region," says Adil El Youssefi- CEO Rest of Africa at Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

"For Liquid Kenya, we see this growing demand being catalysed by the Kenya Kwanza Governments Digital Superhighway Initiative and this 1,000km of newly lit fibre is our first contribution to the private sector investment into this flagship project.

Rapidly expand data route

In partnership with the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) and Ethiopia Electric Power (EEP), Liquids new link connects Nairobi and Mega, a town in southern Ethiopia, and provides a capacity of 4Tbps. Complementing the existing terrestrial routes across this border, the Kenya-Ethiopia route will now have carrier-grade connectivity, which serves to rapidly expand data traffic on this important route.

All initiatives undertaken by businesses under Cassava Technologies (Liquid's parent company) work towards realising our vision of a digitally connected future that leaves no African behind. The completion of these fibre links is yet another milestone achieved by Liquid as it continues to lay the foundations of economic growth through increased access to high-speed connectivity, says Hardy Pemhiwa, president and group CEO of Cassava Technologies.

The fibre network will provide Kenya and Ethiopia with measurable benefits in terms of connectivity performance and accessibility as it connects the underserved towns of Suswa, Sereolipi, Ndaragwa and Marsabit, as well as Nairobi and Mega.
A partnership aimed at creating enduring societal impact brings together TEBA and Old Mutual Will, an offshoot of Old Mutual's innovation and strategic partnerships unit NEXT176, to address the lack of wills and testaments in South Africa's working population - as well as financial inclusion.

Source: Christina Morillo/Pexels

Through this collaboration, TEBA will now offer its employees and customers access to TEBA-branded Digital Wills, empowering them to safeguard their estates. This digital will is part of a comprehensive suite of simple life products provided by Old Mutual.

These products include:

Edu Assist: Offers financial support for education expenses in case of the policyholders passing.

Cost Assist: Assists with estate winding-up costs such as executor fees and other administrative expenses.

Cash Assist: Provides immediate funds for covering immediate needs like groceries.

Debt Assist: Covers outstanding debts, such as car loans or home mortgages.

Bridging the gap

South Africa faces a significant challenge with nearly 70% of its working population being without a will, potentially exposing their loved ones to the burden associated with administering the estate left without a will.

To date over 90% of the TEBA customer base has indicated they dont have a valid Will. Funeral expenses, executor fees, estate duties, and other administrative costs can be overwhelming for those left behind. TEBA and Old Mutual aim to bridge this gap by offering this much-needed solution.

Hilton Michels, CEO of Old Mutual Wills, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, "Old Mutual's collaboration with TEBA marks a significant step towards addressing a critical issue in South Africa. We believe in the power of financial inclusion and are proud to provide accessible solutions to empower South Africans with financial security."

TEBA plays an important role

TEBA plays a crucial socio-economic role in the lives of many who work in the lifeblood of South Africas economy, the mining sector. Currently, TEBA provides essential services to approximately 280,000 current mineworkers and their extended families.

These services encompass a wide spectrum of financial, human resources, health, and community development offerings, addressing the unique needs of this crucial demographic.

"TEBA is dedicated to improving the financial well-being of our customers. This partnership with Old Mutual allows us to make a real difference in the lives of South Africans by providing them with essential tools for transferring wealth intergenerationally," said Thabo Gumbi, head of commercial at TEBA, echoing Michels' sentiment.
The Spur rebrand is a missed opportunity to right a historical wrong.

The Spur rebrand is a missed opportunity to right a historical wrong writes Jarred Cinman.

This last week we were greeted with the reveal of the new Spur logo and brand identity. In itself, the rebranding of a food destination for rowdy kids isnt big news.

We can probably all agree that, from a design point of view, the new logo is fine in the same way that a hotel shower is fine  it does the job while being rather tepid and lacking in force.

At odds with modern culture

Unfortunately for Spur, this is a brand whose entire thematic has ended up at odds with modern culture.

Founded in what can politely be called a different time, the whole setup  a pastiche of Native American culture, food and language  is inherently and innately problematic.

What must have seemed fun and harmless decades ago is now egregiously offensive to an entire population group, albeit one that is far away and out of sight.

In light of this, it is perplexing that the company didnt grab the opportunity to spend millions of rand reinventing itself for a more enlightened time.

We were perhaps able to forgive this flagrant act of cultural shoplifting on the grounds of historical context.

As someone in the advertising business, I know that the cost and complexity of changing an entire brand identity is enormous and this is a local steak restaurant without the resources to pull that off. Or so I thought.

Having decided to throw the big bucks at a rebrand, however, what excuse now remains for polishing, rather than flushing, the turd?

The new brand is flatter, simpler and cleaner. But it perpetuates the cultural appropriation and  one may even say  makes it worse because history is no longer the culprit. This is a deliberate choice made in 2023.

Woke gone mad?

Its easy to dismiss this criticism as woke slavishness.

Surely everyone understands that this is just a visual language for a restaurant chain and therefore harmless and fun rather than offensive and racist?

The point here can be made by imagining a scenario closer to home. Imagine a restaurant called Shaka situated in downtown New York or the London High Street. This restaurant draws its visual cues from Zulu culture; the waiters dress in loin cloth and carry shields and assegais; and the food has Zulu-themed names and puns.

This is not, however, a restaurant owned by Zulu people but rather an American company simply capitalising on Zulu language, visual cues and culture as a way to design their restaurant and attract customers.

For the average New Yorker or Brit, this may well seem fine because Zulu culture is far away and abstract.

But ask yourself how you, as a South African, maybe even a Zulu South African, would feel walking into that restaurant to find pasty British teenagers dressed up as Zulu warriors, grillers with blackface and kids playing in plastic kraals surrounded by stylised pictures of Shaka and Dingaan.

This is exactly what Spur represents to Native Americans. Its not only tasteless, its also profoundly out of touch with the global nature of brands.

Native Americans are  like so many native peoples  a culture that has been colonised and abused. Like most post-colonial societies, the US continues to reckon with the consequences of stealing other peoples land at gunpoint.

The point here is this is a culture that has been brutalised and subjugated  and one that therefore demands to now be treated with care and sensitivity. A lot like many South African cultures.

Just because victims are far away doesnt make transgressing against them acceptable.

Partly because the world is now porous and these transgressions travel, but also because our sensitivities are now informed by global trauma. Insult a Native American here and the message the consumer gets is that you dont care about anyone.

For a portion of the population, this may make no difference. Many people are just not fussed about casual racism, and a customer in a small town may have so little connection to Native America that they just receive this as a harmless dress-up.

But Spur exists in a country that is struggling toward a common South African identity that both acknowledges our indigenous history and faces the challenges of modernity.

Younger consumers, in particular, are sensitive to how brands treat them and their cultures.

They may not care overtly about Native Americans, but they do care about how people are regarded and when they see a brand bulldozing over someones culture  anyones culture  they find it triggering and upsetting. They worry about what this says about the values the brand espouses and its a big turn-off.

Stop taking things so seriously, Jarred

It is inevitable that someone is going to say this to me in response to this article. Its a common refrain when serious issues are at stake, and no one wants to stare their prejudice in the face.

Something is only a joke if its not at your expense. Im not even sure that Spur intends itself as a joke. It certainly doesnt expend energy trying to make fun of Native Americans but nor does it make any sense for this to be the terrain to play on.

It feels like the theme was chosen by putting up world cultures on a wall and throwing darts at it until one stuck.

There is no origin story here that ties the brand back to Native American roots and nothing in its way of doing business that benefits or enhances Native American culture. If you are looking for a working definition of cultural appropriation that might well fit.

Building sensitivity to other peoples plights and life circumstances is an urgent requirement in the world.

Right-wing populism and divisiveness are on the rise from the US to Europe and beyond, and whats needed are more empathy, more sensitivity, and more kindness. There is nothing good added into the world by treating other people as amusing objects to be employed to achieve a marketing or packaging goal.

I can accept that most people will think I am overthinking this and taking it too seriously. But if caring for other peoples culture and feelings is a fault, its one I am happy to have. I happen to think that it is serious, and the failure to care is showing up in all kinds of scary ways online and off.

In the end, the best thing one can say about this rebrand is it doesnt make things substantially worse.

But its mind-boggling that given the opportunity and the moment in time, no one thought a historical misstep would be better corrected than perpetuated.

Talk up nostalgia and heritage all you like, it doesnt trump the bigger issues at play. And nor should it.

Most brands have these kinds of skeletons in their closet. The difference is they have moved with the times, reckoned with their pasts, and met the consumer where they are today.

At best, this is a missed opportunity. At worst its negligent and divisive  not good marketing or business goals in anyones books.
Since its inception in 2017, the Africa Shared Value Leadership Summit has firmly established itself as a leading thought leadership platform on the African continent. Hosted by the Shared Value Africa Initiative and organised by Shift Impact Africa, the summit has consistently brought together leadership, businesses and organisations dedicated to business and social transformation throughout the African continent. We extend an exclusive invitation for your organisation to seize a pivotal role in shaping the 2024 edition, an extraordinary opportunity to unite organisations from every corner of Africa in pursuit of a shared vision for progress.

This summit wields remarkable influence in being a catalyst for transformative change within organisations and across society at large  through raising awareness of the shared value business management concept and its power to advance both business and society, as well as facilitating collaboration and business expansion. These gatherings serve as dynamic hub for knowledge exchange, fostering collaboration, and igniting innovative thinking  with heads of industry providing insights, perspectives and best practice case studies in accelerating Africas sustainability. Furthermore, attendees gain fresh insights, gleaned from diverse perspectives, challenging conventional wisdom and sparking new ideas.

The 2024 Africa Shared Value Leadership Summit, to be hosted on 24 to 25 October in Nairobi, Kenya, will continue to build on this history and reputation. A flagship event, and grand gathering of purpose-driven business leaders from across Africa to advance the collective agenda to achieve the Africa We Want. The summit will be curated under the theme 'Empowering Africas Future', the summit will highlight interventions through five topical areas: economic growth, climate action, inclusive health, gender equality, technology as an enabler.

This is an event that will facilitate vital connections, enabling cross-pollination of expertise across industries and sectors  and supporting our belief in the power of the collective. Over the two days, the exchange of best practices, success stories, and lessons learned empowers organisations to adapt swiftly to evolving landscapes. Here, as a collective, we can cultivate a culture of continuous learning and adaptability, driving organisations to proactively embrace change, and ultimately, thrive in an ever-evolving world.

Through keynote addresses, round table discussions, fireside chats and interviews, as well as breakaway sessions, all aimed at influencing a broader collective by demonstrating scalable impact and value creation.

By sponsoring the Africa Shared Value Leadership Summit, your organisation will be part of this dynamic two-day event, not only as a brand, but also a thought leader, with your participation specially curated to highlight and align with your business and sustainability objectives.

The countdown to the 2024 Africa Shared Value Leadership Summit has begun, and you can join now and be part of this lead-up campaign  not only will special rates apply for early bird sponsors, but you will benefit for even longer from the marketing exposure and thought leadership engagement.

For more information on the Africa Shared Value Leadership Summit sponsorship opportunities, please contact Vuyo Lutseke on acirfa.tcapmitfihs@oyuv or +27 73 269 0815.




Subscribe to daily business and company news across 19 industries

SUBSCRIBE
Samsung employees purchase domestic seafood products online ahead of the Chuseok holidays later this month. Courtesy of Samsung



By Park Jae-hyuk



Samsung has come up with plans to invigorate the domestic economy ahead of the Chuseok holidays later this month.



Korea's largest business conglomerate said Thursday that 11 of its affiliates agreed to expedite a combined 1.4 trillion won ($1 billion) in payments to buy products from subcontractors, despite difficulties caused by the slowdown in the global IT industry, which has affected earnings at flagship affiliate Samsung Electronics.



The decision was based on Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong's perception that the competitiveness of subcontractors is directly connected to Samsung's competitiveness. That perception has also led the conglomerate to continue supporting small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).



The Samsung chairman said last year that he will make more efforts to share the fruits of growth with society.



"I want to more actively participate in volunteer work, but I am well known to the public so it's not easy for me. However, I try to donate a lot anonymously," he told Samsung employees earlier this year.





Samsung Electronics Executive Chairman Lee Jae-yong, right, looks around the manufacturing plant of Dong-A Plating in Busan, which built a smart factory with the support of the conglomerate, in this November 2022 file photo. Courtesy of Samsung Electronics
People walk between the rubbles, after a powerful storm and heavy rainfall hit Libya, in Derna, Libya, Sept. 13. Reuters-Yonhap



Search teams combed streets, wrecked buildings and even the sea Wednesday to look for bodies in a coastal Libyan city where the collapse of two dams unleashed a massive flash flood that killed at least 5,100 people.



The Mediterranean city of Derna has struggled to get help after Sunday night's deluge washed away most access roads. Aid workers who managed to reach the city described devastation in its center, with thousands still missing and tens of thousands left homeless.



"Bodies are everywhere, inside houses, in the streets, at sea. Wherever you go, you find dead men, women, and children," Emad al-Falah, an aid worker from Benghazi, said over the phone from Derna. "Entire families were lost."



Mediterranean storm Daniel caused deadly flooding Sunday in many towns of eastern Libya, but the worst-hit was Derna. Two dams in the mountains above the city collapsed, sending floodwaters roaring down the Wadi Derna river and through the city center, sweeping away entire city blocks.



As much as a quarter of the city has disappeared, emergency officials said.



Waves rose as high as 7 meters (23 feet), Yann Fridez, head of the delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Libya, told broadcaster France24.



Mohammed Derna, a teacher in the city, said he, his family and neighbors rushed to the roof of their apartment building, stunned at the volume of water rushing by. It reached the second story of many buildings, he said. They watched people below, including women and children being washed away.



"They were screaming, 'Help, help,'" he said over the phone from a field hospital in Derna. "It was like a Hollywood horror movie."



Derna lies on a narrow coastal plain, under steep mountains. Only two roads from the south remain usable, and they involve a long, winding route through the mountains.



Collapsed bridges over the river split the city center, further hampering movement.



Search teams went through shattered apartment buildings and retrieved the dead floating offshore in the Mediterranean Sea, al-Falah said.



Ossama Ali, a spokesman for an ambulance center in eastern Libya, said at least 5,100 deaths were recorded in Derna, along with around 100 others elsewhere in eastern Libya. More than 7,000 people in the city were injured.





A view shows damaged cars, after a powerful storm and heavy rainfall hit Libya, in Derna, Libya, Sept. 13. Reuters-Yonhap



A spokesman for the eastern Libyan interior ministry put the death tally in Derna at more than 5,300, according to the state-run news agency.



The number of deaths was likely to increase since teams are still collecting bodies, Ali said. At least 9,000 people are missing, but that number could drop as communications are restored.



At least 30,000 people in Derna were displaced by the flooding, the U.N.'s International Organization for Migration said.



The storm hit other areas in eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa and Marj. Rescuers retrieved at least 150 bodies Wednesday from the sea off Bayda, bringing the death tally in the town to about 200, Ali said.



The startling devastation pointed to the storm's intensity, but also Libya's vulnerability. The country is divided by rival governments, one in the east, the other in the west, and the result has been neglect of infrastructure in many areas.



Ahmed Abdalla, a survivor who joined the search-and-rescue effort, said they were putting bodies in the yard of a hospital before taking them for burial in mass graves at Derna's sole intact cemetery.



"The situation is indescribable. Entire families dead in this disaster. Some were washed away to the sea," Abdalla said by phone.



Derna is 250 kilometers (150 miles) east of Benghazi, where international aid started to arrive on Tuesday.



Neighboring Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia, as well as Turkey, Italy and the United Arab Emirates, sent rescue teams and aid. The U.K. and German governments sent assistance too, including blankets, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, tents, water filters and generators.



U.S. President Joe Biden also said the United States would send money to relief organizations and coordinate with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support.



Authorities transferred hundreds of bodies to morgues in nearby towns. More than 300, including 84 Egyptians, were brought to the morgue in the city of Tobruk, 169 kilometers (105 miles) east of Derna, the local Medical Center reported.



The victims' lists reflected how Libya, despite its turmoil, was always a magnet for workers from around the region because of its oil industry.



More than 70 of Derna's dead hailed from a single southern Egyptian village, el-Sharif. On Wednesday morning, hundreds attended a mass funeral in the village for 64 people.





Hassan El Salheen, weeps after burying the repatriated body of his son, Aly, who died along with his three cousins in Libya after Storm Daniel hit the country, at Al Sharief village in Bani Swief province, Egypt, Sept. 13. Reuters-Yonhap
G-Dragon to appear voluntarily before police for probe into drug suspicions
State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada

Postal Code
The Lyric Theatre in Belfast is leading the UK Theatre Awards nominations alongside Sheffield Theatres, with five nods apiece.

Agreement, about the events leading up to the peace process, comes from local playwright Owen McCafferty  and is up for best new play.

Advertisement

The production about the Good Friday Agreement, which has marked its 25th anniversary this year, features performers playing former secretary of state for Northern Ireland Mo Mowlam, former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams and ex-prime minister Tony Blair.

Enough Of Him, a National Theatre of Scotland and Pitlochry Festival Theatre co-production, and Young Vic Theatres Untitled F*** M*ss S**gon Play are also up for the same gong, UK Theatre Awards announced on Thursday.

Siobhan McSweeney, who won a Bafta for Derry Girls (Jeff Moore/PA)

Advertisement

Hannah Essex, co-chief executive of UK Theatre, said: We are incredibly proud to celebrate theatre across our four nations and the inspiring work of our UK Theatre members.

Advertisement

This years nominees are a reflection of the quality and diversity of talent, story-telling and community engagement that is needed now more than ever.

We would like to thank all our sponsors for supporting the event and offer our congratulations to all those nominated.

Tony Award winner Garry Hynes has also been nominated for best director at the Lyric for DruidOCasey, which brings together the work of Irish dramatist, Sean OCasey, into one play about rebellion and war.

Advertisement

President Michael D Higgins was among the attendees of the Druid Theatre Company-production based on The Plough And The Stars, The Shadow Of A Gunman, and Juno And The Paycock.

Hynes faces competition from Shakespeare North Playhouses Matthew Dunster and Jimmy Fairhurst for A Midsummer Nights Dream and Omar Elerian for As You Like It, a Royal Shakespeare Company production.

Also among the Lyrics nods is Propaganda: A New Musical, set in Berlin during the Cold War, for best design, Martin McDonagh play The Beauty Queen Of Leenane for best play revival and childrens musical Mirrorball for best show for children and young people.

Advertisement

Tony winning director Garry Hynes (left) and playwright Tom Murphy (Niall Carson/PA)

Cork-born actress Siobhan McSweeney, best known for her performance as a nun in Derry Girls, will be hoping to take away best performance in a play for Irish playwright Samuel Becketts Happy Days at the Birmingham Rep.

Advertisement

Bafta-winner McSweeney wrote on X, formerly Twitter: Another heavenly day! Thank you.

She faces competition from West End actor Peter Forbes for On The Beach, Flowers star Daniel Rigby for Accidental Death Of An Anarchist and theatre star Wiliam Young for Of Mice And Men.

Advertisement

Sheffield Theatres, which includes the Crucible, the Lyceum and the Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse, was nominated for best musical production, best play revival, best performance in a musical and best performance in a play.

The award ceremony, hosted by musical theatre star Zoe Birkett, will take place on October 8th at Londons Guildhall.
Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney has said that if people dont pay their television licence then there will not be public service broadcasting.

Not buying a tv licence creates a bigger financial problem which the Government would have to resolve with an intervention, he told Newstalks Pat Kenny show.

Advertisement

I know people have been frustrated and angered by what they've heard in the last number of months. You know, RTE has been through a process of effectively exposing and accepting mistakes that have been made. And clearly there's a need for change, and that's happening.

But we also have to make sure that we don't, in an effort to ask the hard questions, that we don't damage RTE in a way that actually makes public service broadcasting weaker.

Advertisement

Mr Coveney said he did not want to go into much more detail as he had a sibling who was a former executive of RTE, and therefore it was not appropriate for him to set the tone of the debate around RTE.

But what I would say is that Ireland, without a strong independent public service broadcaster, I think would be a place where perhaps democracy wouldn't be as healthy. And look, there are lots of countries that don't have the kind of independent, strong public service broadcasting that we have here. And we need to be careful that we don't lose that.

Advertisement

Mr Coveney said that politicians should not be the people deciding what the reform plan for RTE looks like. That has got to be done by the director general and senior management and RTE working with unions and others to get this right.

Certainly, politicians have a job to do, to ask the hard questions, to expose things that shouldn't have been happening on behalf of the public. That's our job. But it's not our job to manage RTE on a day to day or month to month basis.
PrepayPower has become the fifth energy company to reduce prices for Irish customers in the last few weeks.

From November 1st, gas prices will drop by 13.5 per cent and electricity by 12.8 per cent.

Advertisement

The typical customer using both services can expect a saving of 435 per year, the company said.

PrepayPower is Ireland's largest pay-as-you-go provider, with 180,000 customers to benefit from the price reductions.

SSE Airtricity and Electric Ireland recently announced similar cuts.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said energy companies will need to go further to help people amid the cost-of-living crisis.

Advertisement

The Government welcomes the recent announcements from energy companies to reduce their prices, which will mean lower bills for customers from October and November of this year, Mr Varadkar said on Wednesday.

People are really struggling with the cost of living and energy costs are a big part of that. I met with the main energy companies this afternoon and indicated to them that they must go further in future billing cycles, subject to wholesale prices not increasing again.

Advertisement

As people will begin to use more energy moving into the winter months, Mr Varadkar said the energy providers had committed to helping their customers.

I am particularly concerned about what companies are doing to help their most vulnerable customers and received commitments from them this afternoon that they will continue to help over the winter period, through their respective hardship funds, prompt customer service and minimising disconnections outside of the moratorium period, which last year covered October through to the end of March, he said.

I understand CRU, the utilities regulator, will make a decision on this years moratorium period shortly.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and broadcaster Maia Dunphy launched a national coffee morning event for Irish hospices on Thursday.

The pair "got brewing" at Government Buildings to remind everyone to host, attend or donate to a Bewleys Big Coffee Morning Social for Hospice on September 21st.

Advertisement

This is an event which rightly recognises the tireless, and often unseen, work undertaken by hospice staff and volunteers throughout Ireland, said Mr Varadkar.

It is an opportunity for all of us as individuals, and also for businesses, to recognise the huge contribution they make to families.

None of us know if or when we will need hospice care, which provides comfort and dignity to thousands of families whose loved ones need end-of-life care or are dealing with life-limiting conditions.

"A special word of thanks to all those involved in this fundraiser, now entering its fourth decade, especially those who host coffee mornings.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar with broadcaster Maia Dunphy at Government Buildings. Photo: Conor McCabe Photography

Broadcaster and presenter Maia Dunphy, a long-term supporter of hospices, said: Its great to be able to do these things in person once again. It's such an important fundraiser, and a fun one too.

Its such a simple and effective way to support Together for Hospice  and if you cant host, just turn up at a coffee morning or donate.

Bewleys Big Coffee Morning Social for Hospice has raised over 43.2 million since 1992 and there is a 2 million fundraising target this year.

Together for Hospice, the national hospice movement, represents 26 hospice and specialist palliative home care providers supporting patients and their families.

Funds raised locally stay local and go back into each hospice to innovate, build new facilities, develop new services and deliver quality improvements and extra benefits for their patients and family members.

You can register now to host a coffee morning on September 21st  or on a date that suits you  at hospicecoffeemorning.ie or call 0818 995 996. If you cannot host or attend one, you can make a donation at hospicecoffeemorning.ie/donate
Gardai have arrested two men after a drugs seizure in Dublin.

Gardai seized approximately 240,000 of suspected drugs and arrested two men during searches conducted as part of Operation Tara in the Blanchardstown area of Dublin 15 on Wednesday, 13th September 2023.

Advertisement

Gardai attached to the Divisional Drugs Unit at Finglas Garda Station, along with regular uniform units and the Garda Dog Unit conducted a search of a premises during Wednesday afternoon.

Over the course of this search, approximately 240,000 of suspected cannabis was seized along with 2,600 in cash.

All of the suspected drugs will now be sent to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) for analysis.

Two men (40s and 20s) have been arrested in connection with this seizure and are currently detained at a Garda Station in North Dublin under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996.

Advertisement

This investigation is ongoing.
Thursday's front pages focus on a range of stories from RTE facing cost-cutting measures as it face a 28 million deficit, to the majority of Gardai giving a vote of no confidence in Garda Commissioner Drew Harris.

The Irish Times reports RTE is facing months of painful cost-saving measures as it struggles to conserve cash in the face of a 28 million deficit driven by a drop in licence-fee income, which has put its finances under extreme pressure.

Advertisement

The Irish Examiner and The Echo lead with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris saying a vote of no confidence in him by more than 9,000 members of the Garda Representative Association feels like a huge kick in the teeth.

Advertisement

Good morning, here is the front page of today's Irish Independent pic.twitter.com/3LKx4Yn0SJ Advertisement  Irish Independent (@Independent_ie) September 14, 2023

The great (unofficial) TV licence boycott goes on, it seems... pic.twitter.com/ptKTiTJEcB Advertisement  The Irish Daily Mail (@irishdailymail) September 13, 2023

Today's front page of The Irish Sun pic.twitter.com/Qh1SQLeEdt  The Irish Sun (@IrishSunOnline) September 13, 2023 Advertisement

Advertisement

In the UK, People smugglers, pensions, and the highly anticipated meet-up of Russian President Vladimir Putin with North Koreas Kim Jong Un feature on Thursdays front pages.

The Daily Telegraph, the Times and the Daily Mail have all run with a similar story: Opposition leader Keir Starmer has revealed his tough stance on those who traffic boat people, vowing to freeze assets and to restrict the movement of known human traffickers.

The front page of tomorrow's Daily Telegraph:



'Starmer plots deal to take EU migrants'#TomorrowsPapersToday



Sign up for the Front Page newsletter https://t.co/x8AV4OoUh6 pic.twitter.com/CUQ6D0MGer  The Telegraph (@Telegraph) September 13, 2023

While many of Britains newspapers have focused on the migrant crisis stemming from EU shores, the Financial Times took a slightly different tack while keeping the microscope firmly on Europe.

Advertisement

Just published: front page of the Financial Times UK edition Thursday September 14 https://t.co/Idd5Du4MwQ pic.twitter.com/44XuUKfetl  Financial Times (@FT) September 13, 2023

Keeping its eyes set on news abroad, the Metro leads with a splash on the meet-up of Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin, as the two rogue nations join forces to bolster the fight against imperialism.

Back on British soil, the Daily Express continues to shine a light on one of the weeks biggest stories, calling on its readers to join them in the fight to protect the pension triple lock.

The Independent says Rishi Sunak is in talks to scrap the HS2 rail project as prices spiral amid delays.

The Guardian has also opted to keep their front UK-focused, with the paper running with the headline Sunak blocked rebuild of hospitals riddled with crumbling concrete.

Advertisement

Thursdays GUARDIAN: Sunak blocked rebuild of hospitals riddled with crumbling concrete #TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/vgbLyA8f12  Allie Hodgkins-Brown (@AllieHBNews) September 13, 2023

The Daily Mirror reports on the uptick in shoplifting across the UK, calling it out of control as the cost of living crisis deepens.

No one should be kept in the dark, Thursdays i says, with their front page looking at the forced installation of prepaid power meters in the UKs poorest homes and how the move may put children under the age of five at risk.

Thursdays i: Ban on energy firms force-fitting prepay meters leaves children under five at risk #TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/LP4Q2DD5RS  Allie Hodgkins-Brown (@AllieHBNews) September 13, 2023

While several papers ran with headlines on EU migrant arrivals, the Daily Star has opted for a front on a different kind of expat: Aliens on Earth.
Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis has said Donald Trump is unlikely to be elected US president again if convicted in any of the four criminal cases he faces.

Mr DeSantis made the comments in an interview with CBS News.

Advertisement

The Florida governor has sharpened his critiques of Mr Trump, seeking to paint him as unelectable as he strains to catch up to the former president in the Republican presidential race.

I didnt think even before all this that the president, the former president, should have run again, Mr DeSantis said in the interview.

Advertisement

Theres too many voters, who, hes a dealbreaker for them.

Mr DeSantis, who is in a distant second in the race, has gradually hardened his criticisms of the former president as he runs against him.

Advertisement

He joined almost all of the Republican candidates on the debate stage last month in saying they would support Mr Trump, the frontrunner, as the partys nominee, if he is convicted.

Advertisement

But in the new interview, Mr DeSantis said it is unlikely Mr Trump can win if he is convicted.

I think the chance of getting elected after being convicted of a felony is as close to zero as you can get, he said.

Mr Trump faces 91 charges across four criminal cases, two filed in federal court in Washington and Florida and two in state courts in New York and Georgia.

The cases are related to his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss, allegations he mishandled classified documents and hush money payments made to hide claims of extramarital affairs.

Advertisement

Mr DeSantis has in the past made comments agreeing with Mr Trumps statements suggesting the cases against him are politically motivated, with the governor saying the criminal justice system was being politicised.

Former president Donald Trump is the frontrunner in the Republican presidential race. Photo: Toby Brusseau/AP.

Mr Trumps campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement that DeSantis knows he has no shot of ever becoming the nominee  he is slipping to third place after all  but cosying up to Never Trumpers and lunatic Democrats is an all-time low for him, almost as low as his poll numbers.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Mr DeSantis also criticised Mr Trump for adding to the national debt as president.

According to the Bipartisan Policy Centre, the gross national debt rose by 7.4 trillion dollars over the Trump years.

Mr DeSantis said both parties have added to the debt and Republicans talk big when theyre out of power, but when they get in, they dont put their money where their mouth is.

Donald Trump added almost eight trillion dollars to the debt in four years. He ran saying he was going to eliminate the national debt, he said.

He did make that promise, and they did the opposite.

Mr Trumps campaign did not respond to Mr DeSantiss comments on the debt.
A former Austrian foreign minister who invited Russian president Vladimir Putin to her wedding and danced a waltz with him at the 2018 reception said she has moved to St Petersburg to set up a think tank there.

Karin Kneissl (58) announced on messaging app Telegram that her ponies, which she has been keeping in Syria, were taken to Russia on a Russian military plane.

Advertisement

Ms Kneissl, from the right-wing Freedom Party, served as foreign minister from 2017 to 2019.

She was repeatedly criticised in Austrian and German media during that time for her pro-Russia views.

Russian president Vladimir Putin dances with then Austrian foreign minister Karin Kneissl at her wedding in Gamlitz, southern Austria, on August 18th, 2018. Photo: Roland Schlager/Pool via AP

Advertisement

Her dance with Mr Putin came just months after Russia was accused of poisoning former spy Sergei Skripal, and his daughter Yulia, with nerve agent Novichok in the United Kingdom.

Ms Kneissl said in her post that she moved her books, clothes and ponies from Marseille to Beirut in June 2022, after Russia invaded Ukraine, after which she says she was banished from France.

Advertisement

At the Eastern Economic Forum in the far eastern Russian city of Vladivostok earlier this week, Ms Kneissl told Russian state news agency Tass that she had set up the Gorki centre  a think tank associated with the state university in St Petersburg.

Because the think tank requires a lot of her time, she decided to move to Russia, she said.

Advertisement

The Gorki centre, Ms Kneissl told Tass, deals, among other things, with issues of energy, migration and new alliances  issues in which I am well versed, which also affect the Arab and Islamic world, with which I am familiar.

Ms Kneissl also said on Telegram that since apparently nothing is going on in Austria and Germany beyond the economic crisis, my relocation is becoming a political issue.

She added, in a swipe likely at her critics, that the hatred that seeps out of Austria amazes not only me.

In an interview at the forum with Russian news agency RIA Novosti, Ms Kneissl said its not easy to move to Russia because of the amount of paperwork involved but that she had already moved into an apartment she is renting in St Petersburg.
Climate activists hold a banner as they block vehicle traffic during a protest outside the headquarters of Blackrock in Manhattan in New York City, N.Y., Wednesday. Reuters-Yonhap



Global investment of $2.7 trillion a year is needed to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and avoid temperatures from rising above 1.5 degrees Celsius this century, a report by consultancy Wood Mackenzie said on Thursday.



Scientists have said the world ideally needs to limit global average temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius this century to avoid catastrophic effects from climate change. Many governments have pledged to reduce emissions to net zero by mid-century to help achieve this.



However, most countries are not on track to even meet emissions targets by 2030, let alone 2050, the report said.



Net zero refers to cutting emissions to as close to zero as possible with any remaining emissions re-absorbed from the atmosphere, by oceans and forests, for example.



Governments' existing emissions cut pledges would fail to stop global temperatures from rising over 1.5 degrees Celsius, and would likely put the world on track to warm by 2.5C by 2050, according to the United Nations.



Wood Mackenzie said to decarbonize the energy sector investment of $1.9 trillion a year is needed, and this must increase by 150 percent  or $2.7 trillion a year  to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Three-quarters of that investment is needed in the power and infrastructure sectors.



"Achieving 1.5 degrees Celsius is going to be extremely challenging, but it is possible and greatly depends on actions taken this decade," said Simon Flowers, chairman and chief analyst at Wood Mackenzie.



Renewables such as wind and solar power need to become the world's main source of power supply to support the electrification of transport and production of green hydrogen, the report said.



"Oil and gas still have a role to play as part of a managed transition. There will be a natural depletion as low and zero carbon options develop but supply still needs to be replenished as we move towards net zero," said Prakash Sharma, vice president at Wood Mackenzie, and lead author of the report. (Reuters)


The Libyan city of Derna has buried thousands of people in mass graves as search teams scoured the area after devastating floods that killed at least 5,500 people, a health official said.

Storm Daniel caused deadly flooding in many eastern towns, but the worst-hit was Derna.

Advertisement

As the storm pounded the coast on Sunday night, Derna residents said they heard loud explosions when the dams outside the city collapsed.





Advertisement

Floodwaters washed down Wadi Derna, a valley that cuts through the city, crumbling buildings and washing people out to sea.

Health authorities put the death toll in Derna at 5,500 as of Thursday. The number of deaths was likely to climb as there are least 9,000 people still missing, said Ossama Ali, a spokesman for an ambulance centre in eastern Libya.

In comments to the Saudi-owned Al Arabia television station, Derna mayor Abdel-Moneim al-Ghaithi, said the tally could climb to 20,000, given the number of neighbourhoods that were washed out.

Advertisement

An official with the UNs World Health Organisation in Libya said the fatalities could reach 7,000, given the number of people who were still missing.

Advertisement



Damage from the massive flooding in Derna, Libya (Yousef Murad/AP)

The numbers could surprise and shock all of us, said the official.

The floods have displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, according to the UNs International Organisation for Migration, and several thousand others were forced to leave their homes in other eastern towns, the UN agency said.

Advertisement

The floods damaged or destroyed many access roads to Derna, hampering the arrival of international rescue teams and humanitarian assistance.

The startling devastation reflected the storms intensity, but also Libyas vulnerability.



French aid workers wait by a cargo plane loaded with disaster relief for Libya (Daniel Cole/AP)

Advertisement

The country is divided by rival governments  one in the east, the other in the west  and one result has been widespread neglect of infrastructure.

The dams that collapsed outside Derna were built in the 1970s and have not been maintained for years, local media reported.

More than 3,000 bodies were buried by Thursday morning, said eastern Libyas health minister, Othman Abduljaleel, while another 2,000 were still being processed.

Advertisement

He said most of the dead were buried in mass graves outside Derna, while others were transferred to nearby towns and cities.



At least 5,100 deaths were recorded in Derna, along with more than 100 others elsewhere in eastern Libya (Muhammad J Elalwany/AP)

He said rescue teams were still searching wrecked buildings in the city centre, and divers were combing the sea off Derna.

The storm hit other areas in eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Um Razaz and Marj, leaving around 170 dead, the health minister said.

The dead in eastern Libya included at least 84 Egyptians, who were transferred to their home country on Wednesday.

More than 70 came from one village in the southern province of Beni Suef.

Libyan media also said dozens of Sudanese migrants were killed in the disaster.
Sir Keir Starmer has zero balls, UK Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt said, as she compared him to Beach Ken from this summers Barbie movie.

Ms Mordaunt hit back at the Labour leader after he described Rishi Sunak as inaction man during Wednesdays Prime Ministers Questions.

Advertisement

Mr Starmer accused the UK prime minister of failing to heed warnings that led to the British government having to grapple with escaped prisoner Daniel Khalife, crumbling concrete in schools, and reports of Chinese spies in the course of a week.

Penny Mordaunt drew comparisons between the Labour leader and Beach Ken from the summer blockbuster (James Manning/PA)

Responding to shadow Commons leader Lucy Powell at Business Questions, Ms Mordaunt told the Commons: She echoes the hilarious gag the Leader of the Opposition made yesterday to attempt to insult the Prime Minister by comparing him to a popular childrens figurine. I am happy to focus on that.

Advertisement

Advertisement

I dont think that line will survive contact with the Prime Ministers work rate, but let me rise to the bait and return the serve, because I think the Labour leader is Beach Ken.

Beach Ken stands for nothing on shifting sands, in his flip-flops, staring out to sea, doing nothing constructive to stop small boats or grow the economy.

When we examine his weak record on union demands, on border control, on protecting the public and stopping small boats, we discover that like Beach Ken he has zero balls.

Advertisement

Ryan Gosling plays Ken in the the box office hit Barbie (Ian West/PA)

In Greta Gerwigs summer blockbuster Barbie, the dolls companion Ken played by Ryan Gosling has an existential crisis after realising his job is just beach.

The Commons Leader also criticised Mr Starmer's plans to tackle the small boats crisis, branding him Mr Open Borders.

Reacting to news of Labours plans, she said: The leader of her party today is showing himself again to be Mr Open Borders.

Advertisement

He wanted the Home Office to stop all deportation flights, he wanted free movement, he is mooting taking 100,000 illegal immigrants from the safety of the EU and bringing them here to the UK, and he is planning on reversing the ban that we have brought in for people to be able to claim asylum if they come here illegally.

Advertisement

Ms Powell had earlier criticised the UK government for the lack of coming parliamentary business, laying the blame on the British prime minister.

Advertisement

The Labour frontbencher said: Is that it? A general debate, backbench business, rising again on a Tuesday. I wonder why that is. Inaction man yet again swerving the parliamentary action.

She added: Doesnt this all speak to a bigger truth? A Government that is so out of ideas they have nothing to keep the lights on for in Parliament.

Nor will they be accountable for their failures or decisions. Isnt she as tired as the rest of us to have to come here week after week with no real business to announce and more things going wrong?

I know she is going to tell us about how great everything is and how the problems are everybody elses fault but theirs, but quite honestly that is just getting really boring as well.

I dont blame the 54% of people who say they would never even consider voting Conservative at the next election.

What would they even be voting for?

Elsewhere in the questions session, Ms Mordaunt renewed her weekly clash with her SNP counterpart Deidre Brock.

Advertisement

Ms Mordaunt said: Scotland deserves better than socialist, separatist parties and yet again (Ms Brock) has demonstrated that the SNP are yesterdays people talking about yesterdays grievances, they are yesterdays party.

Ms Brock had earlier said of Ms Mordaunt: We all understand the difficulties of defending this tired, hollowed-out bunch on its last legs but thats her job  for the moment anyway.
Wilderness



Prime Video, from September 15

Weeks before its premiere, Amazon Prime Videos new British thriller Wilderness was already stoking online headlines. The interest was less in the show itself, and more in its use of Taylor Swifts re-recorded version of Look What You Made Me Do, her hit 2017 single, which serves as the shows theme song.

After watching the whole series, nothings changed: the best part of Wilderness is its opening credits, an animated sequence paired to Swifts Reputation-era smash, a spiky revenge track built on theatrical histrionics and aggrieved fury, where Swift reclaimed her victimised narrative from pop cultures clutches. For a show about a jilted wife turning the tables on her cheating husband, Wilderness couldve used a lot more of Reputation-era Taylors scorched earth spark.

The not-so-happy couple: Will (Oliver Jackson-Cohen) and Liv (Jenna Coleman). Credit: Amazon Prime Video

Based on the novel by Welsh writer B.E. Jones and created by burgeoning British screenwriter Marnie Dickens, Wilderness deposits us in the internal confusion of Liv Taylor (Jenna Coleman), trophy wife to affluent Will (Oliver Jackson-Cohen). The seemingly perfect British newlyweds (hes listed under My Will in her phone) have moved to New York after Will got headhunted to run the events team at a luxury hotel, which means Liv has had to put her journalism career on hold. Shes willing enough to sacrifice for her man and dives into her wifely duties at home, while also trying to write a novel in her spare time.
Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price says Prime Minister Anthony Albanese needs to take responsibility for the division occurring as a result of the Voice to parliament referendum.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the No campaigns Melbourne launch, the shadow minister for Indigenous Australians said the upcoming referendum was the most divisive referendum Australia had experienced in its history.

Senators Jane Hume, James Paterson, Sarah Henderson, Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Bridget McKenzie at a No campaign launch in Melbourne on Friday. Credit: Luis Ascui

We have never had race as an issue thats at the forefront of discourse in our nation as much as we have during the lead up to the referendum, Price said.

That is wrong, that is division, and the prime minister has to take responsibility for that division.

Price said she had not spoken to Opposition Leader Peter Dutton about the possibility of scrapping a second referendum on Indigenous recognition.

Dutton said earlier this month that if the Voice referendum failed, and he won the next election, he would call another referendum to recognise Indigenous Australians but exclude a constitutionally protected Indigenous Voice.

When asked whether she believed there were Indigenous Australians who had experienced intergenerational disadvantage, Price said there were children in remote communities currently experiencing trauma and she wanted to focus on that as we can do something about that right now.

The Northern Territory-based senator said there was a perpetual push to see Indigenous Australians as victims, even though many are successful.

[The Voice is] built on the premise that Indigenous Australians are disadvantaged, for no other reason but because of our racial heritage, which we know is simply not true, Price said.
Former prime minister Scott Morrison still slumps mute on the furthest parliamentary bench from the stage he once occupied, a cast-off reminder of his time of bluster and conceit. But the depth of division and the grubbiness on display in the current Yes-No conflict have reached an extremity where it is difficult to imagine a civil word again passing between some of the combatants. Juxtapose this. Michael Long, having finished his second punishing march in 19 years from Melbourne to Canberra in the hope of bringing attention to Indigenous disadvantage, stood outside Parliament House on Thursday next to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, urging Australians to vote Yes in the coming referendum on an Indigenous Voice to parliament.

Down the hill, the latest inhabitants of the 50-year-old Aboriginal Tent Embassy, dominated now by a coalition of extreme sovereign groups radicalised during COVID lockdowns, have strung up a banner declaring Vote No to referendum: we deserve more than a Voice. Earlier in the week, Paul Sakkal of this masthead revealed that thousands of campaigners for a No vote were being schooled in the darker arts of deception, employing fear over facts. The Aboriginal Embassy in Canberra, now in the control of so-called sovereign radicals. Credit: Tony Wright Reason would always lose out to emotion, the No campaigners were advised by their chief trainer. Suggest, when calls are made to members of the public, that youd heard the Voice would come with financial reparations, the troops were told (oh, and dont mention upfront that youre from the No side). The Leader of the Opposition, Peter Dutton, who chose to align his parliamentary team with the No vote in what looks very much like a strategy to cause political defeat to Albanese, rather than a matter of national principle, and who has very successfully fostered distrust of the Yes movement ever since, has pointedly avoided placing distance between himself and those campaigners using manipulation through subterfuge.

Instead, he and his colleagues went after Indigenous elder Professor Marcia Langton this week after she called out the No campaign for racism and spreading misinformation. Loading It is worth recording Langtons words, because she has been accused of ripping into No voters, when in fact she was criticising the campaigners described above. Every time the No cases raise their arguments, if you start pulling it apart you get down to base racism. Im sorry to say thats where it lands  or sheer stupidity, she said. If you look at any reputable fact-checker, every one of them says the No case is substantially false, they are lying to you.

Dutton responded by tweeting a misleading newspaper headline  No voters branded racist, stupid by prominent Voice campaigner Marcia Langton  and Deputy Opposition Leader Sussan Ley, in the high dudgeon she regularly assumes these days, called for the Minister for Indigenous Australians, Linda Burney, to condemn Langton. Burney, in her unassuming manner of never rising to the bait, replied simply that she had faith in the Australian people to engage in this debate respectfully. Burney rarely appears to be quite up to the job of engaging in hard political debate, but her insistence on reciting the points upon which Australians will be voting drives the opposition to fury. The Voice, she repeats, is nothing more than the establishment of an advisory body and that body will give advice to the government and to this parliament.

Meanwhile, Dutton insists Albaneses support for a Yes vote is responsible for division in the community. Loading Duttons opening question to Albanese in parliament on Wednesday began with a reference to the slow-moving train wreck that is the Albanese government, and declared: The prime ministers campaign on the Voice is a disaster dividing families and our nation. Albanese countered with the accusation that the leader of the opposition has a record of deception as long as your arm before reciting a litany of Duttons reversals on policy. This included that he told his own party room the official position would be a legislated national Voice and then blindsided them by going to a press conference and getting rid of any concept of a national Voice. Elsewhere, the battle rages across the wilds of the cybersphere, giving Treasurer Jim Chalmers the excuse to accuse Dutton of taking the weirdest whispers from the furthermost fringes of social media and legitimising and amplifying them.
North Melbourne midfielder Tarryn Thomas has been fined for getting behind the wheel while his drivers licence was suspended following a relationship break-up.

The AFL star, who also goes by the name Tarryn Trindall, was convicted and fined $2190 after driving his black sedan in Heidelberg West on Christmas Eve last year.

Thomas lawyer said he had made the foolish decision to drive while his licence was suspended. Credit: AAP

He was also fined for driving without his P-plates and ordered to pay $90 in court costs.

Thomas pleaded guilty when he appeared in the Heidelberg Magistrates Court via video-link.
Australian universities have been too slow to respond to a scourge of sexual assault cases in their communities and cant be trusted to take the issue seriously, senators from all sides of politics said as they called for institutions to be monitored by an independent taskforce.

Coalition senator Paul Scarr, Labor senator Nita Green and Greens senator Larissa Waters have combined to write a searing Senate report that says universities are inconsistent and opaque in their handling of sexual assault complaints, retraumatising young women who are sometimes then unable to continue their education.

The Senate report said universities could not be trusted to tackle the scourge of sexual assault on campus. Credit: Dominic Lorrimer

Their unanimous report, published on Thursday and prompted by years of debate about consent laws and education, said sexual violence was a national crisis that disproportionately affected women and young people, led to unacceptable human tragedy and required action across the whole of society.

But the senators reserved their harshest criticisms for the university sector, where one in six students was sexually harassed and one in 20 were sexually assaulted since beginning their studies, according to the latest national survey.
Half of NSW voters do not want Sydneys $25 billion Metro West line scrapped despite significant cost blow outs and delays to Australias largest public transport project.

Premier Chris Minns has refused to quash speculation that the mega project could be shelved, instead insisting no decision will be made until a major review due next month is completed.

However, the latest Resolve Political Monitor for the Herald reveals 50 per cent of voters do not believe the underground line, linking Parramatta to the CBD, should be cancelled.

While one-third of voters are undecided, only 17 per cent of voters think it should be axed. Of those who support it, 64 per cent are Coalition voters while 43 per cent are Labor voters.
Aussie dollars are hard to exchange in the Middle East. Even if its possible, the exchange rate will be unfavourable. US dollars or euro are a better bet and either can be ordered through Travelex ( travelex.com.au ).

Instead of a lounge, you can have a comfortable bed, and with 10 hours between flights you should be able to get at least six hours of sleep. You can book this online simply if you search Emirates Dubai Connect. Other Middle Eastern airlines offer similar conditions however they dont always tell you when you make your booking, you need to know the perk exists. As a platinum Qantas member you are entitled to access Emirates lounges in Sydney and Dubai.

You can do even better than a lounge. Under its Dubai Connect program, Emirates ( emirates.com ) offers a complimentary hotel stay for economy and premium economy passengers with a layover of 8-26 hours between connecting flights, and who made their booking after October 11, 2022.

I have a 10-hour stopover in Dubai later this year flying premium economy with Emirates. I am a Qantas Gold frequent flyer member, currently upgraded to platinum. Can I access the Emirates lounges in Sydney and Dubai? I will be touring Jordan and Egypt with Bunnik. Should I carry US dollars rather than Aussie for everyday expenses and shopping? G. Fraser, Lyneham ACT

I am planning a trip to Cornwall but organised bus tours are very expensive  around $5000 a person for eight days. Would it be preferable to self-drive from London, Bath or Dorset? I am also planning to go to Puglia  any suggestions about must-see places to visit; would you suggest hiring a car and how long to spend there? I understand trains are limited in this area. S. Burgess, Mount Waverley, Vic

Rabbies (rabbies.com), Tour Cornwall (tourcornwall.com) and Daceys Cornish Tours (daceyscornishtours.com) are just a few options and their prices are far less than the $5000 tour price quoted. Id take a tour rather than driving yourself. Many of the coast roads are narrow and difficult and parking in these small towns can be nightmarish, and better left to someone else. On a tour youll have a guide, like-minded travellers to share the experiences and hotels and probably some meals all organised for you, and booking hotels in this part of the world can be every bit as difficult as parking. Look for a small-group tour, 15 or fewer.

Driving in Cornwall can be tricky due to its winding coastal roads. Credit: iStock

In Puglia, the places Id be visiting include Bari, the white villages of the Valle dItria including Alberobello, Martina Franca, Cisternino and Ostuni and the city of Lecce. There is a dramatic change in the landscape of the Salento region south of Lecce, since many of the ancient olive trees have been infected by a bacterial disease that turns them into skeletons, and its a depressing sight. However there are a few places worth visiting in this area including Otranto, Galatina which has a marvellous Basilica of St Catherine of Alexandria and Santa Cesarea Terme, for no other reason apart from my personal fixation with one of the nicest beach clubs in Italy. You need a car here, Puglia is not well served by public transport. The other option is to take a tour.

My husband and I will have a day and a half in Sapporo in late October, can you suggest an itinerary? We like gardens, temples, past and contemporary culture and things unique to the area. Can you also recommend a special, but not too expensive, restaurant to celebrate our anniversary on our second night? I am pescatarian. R. Ball, Melbourne, Vic
This may be the toughest moment yet for McCarthy who is trying to survive his first year as speaker and live to fight another day. Loading But now, after promises made and possibly dashed, he has barely any days left. At the moment McCarthy has just nine working days to pass the spending bills needed to fund the government or risk a politically devastating federal shutdown. An interruption in government services would ripple across the country, almost certain to hurt his party politically as Republicans are blamed for the disruption and disarray.

In May, the most recent US debt limit dispute prevented Biden from travelling to Australia as planned for a Quad meeting. Biden said in a speech on Thursday that McCarthy and House Republicans seem unable to honour the commitments they made as part of a June debt-limit deal and are now seeking deeper cuts. In his remarks, the president did not address the impeachment inquiry nor the indictment on Thursday of his son, Hunter, on gun-purchasing charges. Theyre back at it again, breaking their commitment, Biden said in Maryland. Threatening to shut down the government again this month. Led by Republican Representative Matt Gaetz of Florida, a core group of McCarthy critics is holding the threat of removal over him unless he meets conservative demands.

Loading A top Trump ally, Gaetz reiterated the conservative flanks many demands after McCarthys meeting  single-subject spending bills, a subpoena for Hunter Biden in the impeachment inquiry and other priorities. So instead of emotionally cursing, lets do this, Gaetz chided. We must begin immediately. Pull yourself together, Kevin! None of the hard-right opponents of McCarthy rose to speak during the private morning meeting  in fact, few even showed up. But McCarthy still addressed them directly  and profanely.

Kevin doesnt live in fear about this, said Representative Brian Mast. McCarthy has prided himself being a survivor, who rose from the ranks over the past nearly 20 years to lead House Republicans. At the start of the year, he suffered through 14 votes in his reach for the speakers gavel before colleagues finally agreed to give it to him on the 15th vote. Top McCarthy ally Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene who is also close with Trump recaptured the speakers message. He said, If you want to throw in a motion to vacate, thats fine. I didnt survive 15 rounds for nothing and Ill survive another 15 rounds. That said, there still is no viable plan or having the House pass the bills needed to run the government by September 30, when current funding runs out, risking the shutdown.

Freedom Caucus conservatives are demanding cuts lower than what McCarthy agreed to in a budget deal with Biden earlier this year - and even lower than the speaker promised he would fight for when he agreed to their demands during his election to become speaker. Its not just Trump influencing House Republicans from the campaign trail. Republican rival Ron DeSantis has also connected with conservatives and is supportive of us trying to fight to get change up here, said Freedom Caucus member Representative Chip Roy. Loading House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said, House Republicans have made clear that they are determined to shut down the government and try to jam their extreme right-wing ideology down the throats of Americans. Jeffries said he had not talked to McCarthy this week about a solution, but he has spoken with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and they have agreed the only way forward is a bipartisan path that funds the government at the current fiscal year levels.

The Senate meanwhile, which is narrowly controlled by Democrats, pushed ahead with a rare and overwhelmingly bipartisan vote, 91-7, to advance a package of spending bills toward final passage  until it was stalled by Senate conservatives. And now all of a sudden, you have a group, a small group in the Senate, trying to mimic the Freedom Caucus in the House, Schumer said, calling on Republican leaders to intervene for the good of the country. McCarthy told the lawmakers to go home for the weekend  they were not in session on Friday for the Jewish holiday  and be prepared to stay in session next week until they get the job done. I dont walk away from a battle, the speaker said, preparing to return to fight another day. Exasperated, McCarthy had already showed signs of strain the night before.
Adani Enterprises on Thursday shared further details on its planned green hydrogen business. The company plans to export production to markets such as Japan, Taiwan and Hawaii, through its recently formed joint venture with Kowa Group.

On Thursday, Adani Enterprises said it has formed a joint venture company named Kowa Green Fuel Pte Ltd, which is a 50:50 joint venture with Kowa Group, for sales and marketing of green ammonia, green hydrogen and its derivatives in Japan, Hawaii and Taiwan.

Further, the company said Adani Group plans to start production of green hydrogen from FY27. "The first project of Adani New Industries Limited (ANIL) of 1 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) green hydrogen is being implemented in phases in Gujarat. The initial phase is expected to start production by FY27," the company said in its statement.

Post which, the company will consider increasing capacity up to 3 million metric tonnes per annum (MTPA) in the next ten years, depending on market conditions, the statement said. The planned investment figure for the entire green hydrogen system remains at 50 billion US dollars.

In its Thursday statement, the company said, "ANIL is well positioned to realise its targets and provide green molecules and sustainable fuels at globally competitive cost. Mundra port's proximity to global supply chain enables export opportunity of green hydrogen and derivatives, especially considering availability of jetty for shipment of cryogenic products." ANIL is Adani New Industries Ltd, which is Adani Enterprises' wholly-owned subsidiary implementing the green hydrogen business plans.

In 2022, Adani Enterprises had announced plans for a joint venture with TotalEnergies to develop different aspects of its green hydrogen business. The proposed joint venture, however, hit a hurdle with the release of the Hindenburg report in January this year. There is no official word on the status of this earlier proposed green hydrogen joint venture with TotalEnergies so far.
The Chennai bench of the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) has dismissed an appeal of Cognizant Technology Solutions India and ruled that the company is liable to pay Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) on buyback of Rs 19,000 crore worth of shares under a scheme of arrangement.

Dismissing the appeal of Cognizant Technology Solutions India, ITAT held that the consideration paid by the company for purchase of its own shares in accordance with the scheme sanctioned by the Madras High Court "amounts to distribution of accumulated profits which entails release of all or part of assets of a company on reduction of capital which attracts provisions of Sec.2(22) of the Income Tax Act, 1961."



Cognizant Technology Solutions in the assessment year 2017-18 purchased 94,00,534 equity shares of face value Rs 10 from its shareholders based in the US and Mauritius at Rs 20,297 apiece for a total consideration of Rs 19,080.26 crore in accordance with a scheme approved by the Madras High Court.

On scrutiny of the returns filed by the Cognizant, the assessing officer raised a demand of Rs 4,853.42 crore on the ground that the company was liable to pay dividend distribution tax as the consideration paid by the Cognizant to its shareholders was nothing but reduction of capital under relevant sections of the Income Tax Act.

Cognizant preferred an appeal with the Commission of Income Tax (Appeals) which upheld the decision of the assessing officer.

Thereafter, the company took up the matter with the Chennai bench of the ITAT.

The appellate tribunal also did not provide any relief to the company and held that Cognizant was liable to pay the dividend distribution tax.

Also Read Cognizant to lay off 3,500 employees in 2023 amid declining revenue Cognizant rejig to cost $400 mn over 2 years, to lay off 3,500 employees Cognizant Q2 profit down 19.7%, retains 2023 revenue growth guidance Cognizant splits global growth markets by appointing 2 internal leaders ITAT nixes additional tax demand on firm for deposits during demonetisation Axis Finance moves NCLAT against NCLT order approving Zee-Sony merger FSSAI introduces Hindi version of FoSCoS portal to enhance user experience Tatas zero in on Sanand for Rs 13,000 crore lithium ion cell plant BAE Systems partners L&T to build BvS10 all-terrain vehicle in India Taking corrective actions at Goa unit; stopped Digene production: Abbott
The Uttar Pradesh government plans to meet its green hydrogen production capacity of nearly half 500,000 tonnes per annum by 2028. This move would help the state expand its clean and renewable energy portfolio.

The government is drafting its maiden Green Hydrogen Policy 2023 to ensure complete utilisation of domestic green hydrogen production. The sector is expected to create job opportunities for more than 60,000 people.

The state will set up two centres of excellence dedicated to green hydrogen research under the UP New and Renewable Energy Development Agency.

The current hydrogen demand in UP is approximately 900,000 tonnes per annum, especially in the fertiliser and refinery sectors.

At the UP Global Investors Summit 2023 , the state received renewable energy investment proposals, including green hydrogen of over Rs 2.70 trillion from 20 companies.

The state would also plan on increasing hydrogen blending in regions where there is consumption of green hydrogen. The proposed plan would pave the way for setting up carbon dioxide recovery units.

Since water plays a vital role in the production of green hydrogen, the state will leverage the demand from the rivers.

UP has taken rapid steps towards adopting non-conventional energy optionsto encourage clean energy in view of global warming and climate change, the CM has asked for preparing a comprehensive green hydrogen policy, a senior government official said.

Recently, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had asked officials to consult all stakeholders in the green hydrogen and renewable energy landscape before finalising the draft. He had also directed for creating water reserves near small and big rivers, and using rainwater to produce green hydrogen.

Adityanath said green hydrogen being a clean industrial fuel would help achieve the goal of net-zero carbon emissions. The department should draft the policy after examining the Government of Indias green hydrogen policy, he said.

Unveiled in February 2022, the green hydrogen policy offers cheaper renewable power and a 25-year financial waiver for interstate power transmission projects commissioned before June 2025. The policy also offers cheaper land in energy parks and dedicated zones for the local industry.

Also Read L&T to build energy infra for world's largest green hydrogen plant at NEOM AAP releases first list of candidates for Madhya Pradesh assembly elections MP elections 2023: Congress to take out Jan Aakrosh Yatra from Sept 15 Madhya Pradesh election 2023: Shivraj Singh Chouhan to expand cabinet today Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Chouhan allocates portfolios to 3 new ministers Govt further cuts stock limit on wheat traders, retailers amid price rise With aim to provide quality electricity, Rajasthan to beef up energy infra Indian oil firms explore using stranded $600 million to buy Russian oil India to be exporter of renewables equipment, solar mfg to touch 100GW Fitch retains India's growth forecast at 6.3%, flags inflation risks

In the current decade, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to be the fastest growing in the global green hydrogen landscape.

Green hydrogen is produced by breaking down water in an electrolyser using renewable energy, so there is no carbon emission. Later, hydrogen can be combined with nitrogen to make green ammonia, thus avoiding planet-warming hydrocarbons. Green ammonia is used to store energy and make fertilisers.

According to reports, the global green hydrogen market was valued at $1.83 billion in 2021, and is estimated to hit $90 billion by 2030, posing a compound annual growth rate of 54 per cent.
Uttarakhand aims to get investments worth Rs 2.5 trillion from a global business summit in December, said Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday.

Investments worth Rs 25,000 crore would have already come in before the summit in Dehradun, he said at a curtain-raiser event in Delhi.

The state received investments worth Rs 12,500 crore in 2022-23. To strengthen the economy of the state, a Strong Uttarakhand Mission has been launched under which a target has been set to double the state gross domestic product in the next five years. The summit is being organised by the state as a link to achieve this goal, said Dhami.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has suspended senior MLA and former Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Kailash Meghwal, from the party's primary membership due to the corruption allegations he made against Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, according to a report by the Hindu. BJP State President C P Joshi had recently issued a show cause notice to Meghwal in connection with this matter on August 29.

The BJP's disciplinary committee chairperson, Onkar Singh Lakhawat, confirmed that Joshi had instructed that Meghwal's response and the entire matter be referred to the committee for further action.

Kailash Meghwal, who is 89 years old, had publicly referred to the Union Minister as "corrupt number one" during a public rally last month. He further alleged that Arjun Ram Meghwal had accepted bribes worth crores of rupees as an officer in Churu district before entering politics.

This clash between the two leaders has arisen just ahead of the State Assembly election in Rajasthan slated for December this year or early 2023.

The six-time MLA, representing Bhilwara district's reserved constituency of Shahpura, remained defiant and called for Arjun Ram Meghwal's removal from his Cabinet position until the charges against him, including reportedly pending court cases, are resolved. He claimed that a case registered by the state's Anti-Corruption Bureau was still pending.

Kailash Meghwal also announced that he had written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing his views and would seek the election commission's intervention to revoke Arjun Ram Meghwal's Parliament membership. He further declared his intention to contest the upcoming assembly election and claimed he would defeat the BJP candidate by a substantial margin.

Kailash Meghwal asserted that there is factionalism within the BJP's State unit "from top to bottom" and that leaders close to former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje are being singled out. He stated that he had been marginalised within the party and prevented from participating in its ongoing Parivartan Yatras.

The former Assembly Speaker is widely regarded as a prominent leader from Raje's camp.

In response, the union minister refuted Kailash Meghwal's allegations and claimed the latter had surmised that "he was not getting one (assembly ticket) this time" and was probably preparing to join Congress.

According to agency reports, Kailash Meghwal stated "This is not an election stunt,". Adding that he did not believe a corrupt person should be heading the post of law minister so Kailash Meghwal began "collecting material against him."

Also Read Rajasthan: Union min Meghwal claims Kailash Meghwal will join Congress Rajasthan BJP MLA accuses Union Min Meghwal of corruption, seeks removal BJP releases first list of 21 candidates for Chhattisgarh, 39 for MP polls 'Login to Mamato, get 50% commission': MP Congress mocks Shivraj Chouhan MP polls: Jolt to BJP in Madhya Pradesh as MLA Virendra Raghuwanshi resigns CM Gehlot cancels Kota visit; eco-violations on riverfront construction Rajasthan fuel stations to shut on sept 13-14, protest high VAT rates Rajasthan elections 2023: State to establish medical tourism sector Rajasthan elections: Govt submits traffic and sanitation plan to HC Pull out their tongues: Union min Shekhawat defends Sanatana Dharma

"I will remain active in politics and will not leave it", Kailash Meghwal said when asked about being "sidelined" in the party.

(With agency inputs)
As part of a new strategy to hit the finances of terrorist organisations, the special NIA Court in Haryana has forfeited the seized property of four aides of Pakistan-based 'listed Khalistani terrorist' Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda.

This is the first time the NIA has proactively sought the properties of terrorists to be forfeited to the State under Section 26 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act after being attached as proceeds of terrorism.

"Forfeiture of properties is a major new tool in the NIA's strategy to dismantle the terrorist ecosystem in the country. The NIA has adopted this strategy to squeeze the financial resources of the terrorist outfits as well as their operatives and associates," a spokesperson of the federal anti-terror agency said.

It has already attached several terrorist-linked properties and the process of their forfeiture is underway in different courts.

In the instant case, the NIA special court has approved the anti-terror agency's application seeking the forfeiture of the property, including Rs 7.80 lakh in cash and a high-end car, which was allegedly used by the accused for transporting arms, ammunition, explosives and narcotics across the country, the spokesperson said.

The Haryana police had, on May 5 last year seized three improvised explosive devices, one pistol with two magazines, 31 rounds of ammunition and Rs 1.30 lakh in cash from the four accused -- Gurpreet Singh, Amandeep Singh, Parminder Singh, and Bhupinder Singh.

They were going to deliver the consignment to Adilabad in Telangana, in their car. A specially designed cavity was created in the vehicle to hide the arms and cash, the spokesperson said.

A case was registered at Madhubhan Police Station in Haryana under various sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Explosive Substance Act and the Arms Act. On May 24, 2022, the NIA took over the investigations into the case.

"Investigations by the NIA revealed that the four men had received multiple consignments of arms, ammunition, explosives and narcotics, which were sent via drones from Pakistan by wanted terrorist Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda. The supplies were delivered at pre-determined locations near the India-Pakistan border.

Also Read Khalistani terrorist Paramjit Singh Panjwar shot dead in Lahore: Report Godrej Properties Q1FY24 results: Net profit at Rs 121 cr; revenue up 44% Canada-based pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar shot dead 34 more Amritpal supporters held, key aides shifted to Assam prison Most-wanted naxal Dinesh Gope arrested after evading capture since 2016 Kejriwal to announce Delhi's winter action plan on Oct 1 to check pollution Kalaignar monthly aid scheme will reshape women's welfare in India: TN CM 23 companies interested in Isro's small satellite launch vehicle technology Corporate tax collections seen in line with budget estimates: Ajay Seth Jarange ends hunger strike over Maratha quota demand after meeting Maha CM

"Further investigations revealed that Gurpreet Singh had earned a lot of money by smuggling arms, ammunition, explosives and narcotics," the spokesperson said.

The official said extensive investigations led to the seizure of the car and Rs 7.80 lakh cash by the NIA on March 30 under the provisions of the UAPA.

The special NIA court in Haryana's Panchkula, after thorough consideration of the matter, has now ordered confirmation of the seizures and forfeited the said property under Section 26 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act to the State on the grounds that the same constituted "proceeds of terrorism", the spokesperson said.
On Wednesday, Kerala reported another case of Nipah virus, taking the total number of patients to three. The state reported two deaths from the virus in its Kozhikode district earlier. The Kerala government has formed 19 committees to monitor the Nipah virus outbreak in the state. It has also arranged a telemedicine facility.

"Root maps of the deceased have been published. Those patients in the high-risk category are requested to remain inside their respective houses. If they have any symptoms, they can contact the call centre," said Veena George, Kerala's health minister, in a press conference on Wednesday.

Till September 24, if necessary, the district collector can ban gatherings in Kozhikode district.

But what is this virus and how does it spread? Here is all you need to know:

Nipah virus: All you need to know

What is the Nipah virus?

Nipah is a zoonotic virus, which means it can be transmitted from animals to humans. According to the World Health Organisation, it can cause severe respiratory infections and swelling in the brain.

When was the Nipah virus first detected?

The virus was first detected in 1999 during an outbreak in the pig farmers of Malaysia. Later, it was also found in Singapore. According to Bloomberg, while no new infections have occurred in either location, there have been periodic flare-ups in Bangladesh and India since 2001.

How does the Nipah virus get transmitted?

In Malaysia, the outbreak is believed to have been caused by the virus spreading from pigs to humans.

In India and Bangladesh, however, the most likely transmission path is through consuming fruit products like date palm sap, contaminated by the urine or saliva of infected fruit bats. According to WHO, many subsequent outbreaks likely involved human-to-human transmission.

What are the symptoms of Nipah virus infections?

Within two weeks of exposure to the virus, the symptoms begin with a fever and headache, often accompanied by signs of respiratory illness like a cough or sore throat.

Also Read Nipah virus: Kerala announces number of measures to prevent contagion The Kerala Story gets 'A' certificate from censor board, 10 scenes deleted Nipah cast shadow on Kerala's tourism industry during peak season Kerala on alert after 2 suspected Nipah deaths in Kozhikode district World TB Day: PM Modi launches initiatives to eliminate disease by 2025 SC data will be available on National Judicial Data Grid: CJI Chandrachud PM reaches Bhopal, to lay foundation of projects worth over Rs 50,700 cr Rajasthan elections: BJP suspends Kailash Meghwal over corruption claims Ahead of festive season, Nepal to import 20,000 MT of sugar from India Nipah situation not as scary as was in 2018: Kerala's ex-Health Minister

On worsening, the infection can lead to disorientation, seizures and encephalitis. Encephalitis causes swelling in the brain and may put patients into a coma within 24 to 48 hours.

Why is India worried?

According to Bloomberg, in India, an estimated 40 per cent to 75 per cent of infected patients die, showing a high mortality.

What is the treatment of the Nipah virus?

Currently, no Nipah vaccines are available for humans or animals. Additionally, there are not many effective treatments other than supportive care. Some researchers are developing monoclonal antibodies, which are immunotherapeutic drugs that would directly fight the virus. However, no licensed treatments are yet available.

According to reports, India is working to make monoclonal antibodies available. In the case of the Kerala outbreak, authorities are using patient contact tracing to contain the spread of the virus.

Has any other country reported the Nipah virus?

The virus has largely been confined to Asian countries, including India, Bangladesh, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines.
In his first public comments on the Sanatan Dharma controversy on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the people to be alert to the designs of the INDIA bloc of parties to destroy Sanatan Dharma, and push the country into another thousand years of slavery.

The PM said Sanatan Dharma kept Bharat united for several millennia, asserting that Sanatan culture gave priority not to birth, but to a persons karma.

Addressing public meetings in poll-bound states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the PM spoke of the pride that every Indian felt at the country successfully hosting the G20 Summit, but focussed his attack on the INDI Alliance and Ghamandiya, or arrogant alliance over the Sanatan Dharma issue.

Commenting on Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader Udhayanidhi Stalins remarks earlier this month, where the Tamil Nadu minister said Sanatan Dharma should be eradicated since it was against social justice, comparing it with dengue and malaria, Modi stressed upon Sanatan Dharmas tenets that embraced people of all castes.

The PM said the age-old Sanatan culture is based on a persons karma (action) and not birth, and guided Valmiki and Sant Ravidas. He said Sanatan Dharmas philosophy and strength inspired Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi to fight the British and Mahatma Gandhis anti-untouchability campaign.

The PM was speaking after laying the foundation stone for a Rs 49,000 crore petrochemicals complex at Bina Refinery in Sagar district of Madhya Pradesh along with 10 other industrial projects.

Reacting to the speech, Congress Jairam Ramesh criticised the PM for using the occasion of a government function to abuse the Opposition. Stooping to his level, one could easily say he heads the GA-NDA coalition  Gautam Adanis NDA, Ramesh posted on X.

During his speech in Bina, Modi said not just Gandhi, whose last words were Hey Ram, but Sanatan Dharma inspired Ahilyabai Holkars fight for womens empowerment, Swami Vivekanandas reforms movement and Bal Gangadhar Tilaks Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

He linked it with the freedom struggle and also thousands of freedom fighters. Modi urged patriots to unitedly stop the designs of the INDI alliance.

Also Read AAP releases first list of candidates for Madhya Pradesh assembly elections MP elections 2023: Congress to take out Jan Aakrosh Yatra from Sept 15 Madhya Pradesh election 2023: Shivraj Singh Chouhan to expand cabinet today Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Chouhan allocates portfolios to 3 new ministers Polling stations to be opened in 40 Naxalite-affected villages of Bastar Beware of 'INDIA' as it wants to erase Bharat, ancient culture: PM Modi Chhattisgarh is now known for its development due to BJP govt, says PM Modi PM inaugurates rail projects worth Rs 6,350 cr in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh BJP issues whip to MPs for ensuring presence during Parl's special session Cong issues whip for MPs to be present in Parliament during special session

At his MP rally, the PM also spoke of how the BJP government has turned around the state, which was a laggard 18 years back, and his guarantees for the poor and farmers. He said the 500th birth anniversary of Rani Durgavati, a tribal ruler who attained martyrdom while fighting the Mughals, will be celebrated in a grand manner on October 5.

This was the PMs eighth visit to the state since September 17 last year, his birthday, when he released cheetahs from Namibia in the Kuno National Park.

Later in the day, the PM addressed a rally at Kondatarai village in Chhattisgarhs Raigarh district. Modi said the Oppositions greed for power was driving its attack on Sanatan Dharma. Sanatan culture is the one in which Lord Ram calls Shabari as his mother and enjoys eating her half eaten ber (juthe ber), said Modi.

Sanatan culture is the one wherein Ram considers forest dwellers and Nishad Raj greater than his brother. Sanatan culture is the one where Ram embraces the boatman rowing the boat. Sanatan culture is one which gives priority not to birth, but to a persons karma (action), he said.

The PM said the country was witnessing a festive atmosphere, referring to the successful Chandrayaan-3 mission and conclusion of the G20 summit in New Delhi under Indias presidency.

The spirit with which Atal ji (former PM AB Vajpayee) had created Chhattisgarh (in 2000), you have to give Modi an opportunity to make Chhattisgarh a developed state with the same spirit, he said.

He accused the Bhupesh Baghel-led Congress government in the state of corruption.
Slamming Elon Musk for calling Taiwan an "integral part of China," the Taiwan foreign minister has asserted that Taiwan is "not for sale".

Musk, the owner of the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), as well as the Tesla (TSLA.O) electric car company and Starlink satellite network has stated that Taiwan is an integral part of China. His remarks at the All-In Summit in Los Angeles were recorded and posted to YouTube this week.

"Their (Beijing's) policy has been to reunite Taiwan with China. From their standpoint, maybe it is analogous to Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China mostly because ... the US Pacific Fleet has stopped any sort of reunification effort by force," Musk said.

Responding to this, Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, posted on X on Wednesday night, "Hope @elonmusk can also ask the #CCP to open @X to its people. Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off @Starlink to thwart #Ukraine's counterstrike against #Russia. Listen up, #Taiwan is not part of the #PRC & certainly not for sale! JW."

Taiwan has been claimed by the People's Republic of China as its territory.

However, Taiwan's government claims that because the People's Republic of China has never ruled the island, it has no authority to claim sovereignty over it, speak for it, or represent it on the global stage, and that only the people of Taiwan can decide their future.

Taiwan was formally recognised by just 13 countries: Belize, Guatemala, Haiti, Paraguay, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau, Tuvalu, Eswatini, and the Vatican City.

However, after Tsai Ing-wen became Taiwan's president in 2016, nine countries shifted allegiances to China, and Beijing has amplified its diplomatic efforts to isolate Taiwan. Taiwan's government claims that it is a sovereign country with the right to state-to-state ties.
Armis, the asset intelligence cybersecurity company, today announced another business milestone since it reached its $100M ARR milestone in February, announcing it has achieved 80% customer growth in just the first 6 months of its fiscal year, ending July 2023. Customers across the globe also expanded their use of the Armis Platform with a 50% adoption rate of two solutions in the Armis portfolio, with over 15% adopting three or more of its solutions in the past year.

We focus on empowering businesses with asset intelligence and actionable plans so they can be assured that their infrastructure is safe and operational at all times, said Yevgeny Dibrov, Co-Founder and CEO at Armis. Today I see Armis chosen as the platform of choice for Fortune 100, 200 and 500 companies all around the world who are looking to understand their attack surface and proactively defend themselves against increased threats. I measure our success not only in financial growth, but in the positive impact that the company is having on virtually all industries thanks to the trust that our customers have given us.

The Attack Surface is Expanding and Threats are on the Rise

Armis expects that by 2025, the number of connected assets will grow to 50B but 80% of assets remain unseen, unmanaged and lacking in any security measures. Vulnerabilities are also increasing with a growth of 689% in the last 6 years, many targeted at critical infrastructure with cyberattacks specifically up 140% in this sector. This increase has created a fast changing and difficult situation in which organizations are struggling to stay ahead.

Armis is solving customers critical cybersecurity challenges with four key offerings:

Asset management and security - Complete asset inventory of all asset types allowing any organization to see and secure the attack surface OT/IOT security - See and secure OT/IOT networks and physical assets, ensure uptime and build an effective & comprehensive security strategy Medical device security - Complete visibility and security for all medical devices, clinical assets and the entire healthcare ecosystem - with zero disruption to patient care Vulnerability prioritization and remediation - Consolidate, prioritize and remediate all vulnerabilities; improve mean time to remediation (MTTR) with automatic remediation and ticketing workflows



These four solutions, all recognized by analysts and customers, are all built on top of the same platform ensuring customers can benefit from an integrated platform which unlocks value and enables customers to truly see, protect and manage their attack surface.

Armis becomes the cybersecurity industry standard, protecting the most critical assets on the planet

Some notable recent wins include Vestas, the leading manufacturer and service provider for sustainable wind energy in the world, Reckitt, the multinational consumer goods company, Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel, the Port of Antwerp, the world's largest cargo port, and JLR, the biggest luxury vehicle manufacturer in the UK.

As a leading manufacturer and service provider for sustainable wind energy, our customers require a high degree of security controls to meet regulatory requirements. We utilize Armis to detect and respond to threats and have worked extensively with Armis to shape the integration, so the product fits into our overall detect and response strategy. The insights provided by Armis have proven highly valuable in day-to-day operations again and again, and we are currently expanding our installation," said Steffen Hgh Vinter, Director CMRC Enablement and Problem Management, Vestas.

When we started the program from a central cyber team, we had no visibility into our factory so every device was unseen. Now, with Armis deployed in half our factories, we've seen 10s of 1000s of devices that we didn't know about before. Armis is allowing us to address three use cases: firstly, giving us that visibility that we didn't have before. Secondly, allowing us to identify vulnerabilities, which allows us to de-risk our state. And thirdly allowing us to identify any unusual behavior that's happening in our network, said David Boyd, Director of Cyber Strategy & Engagement at Reckitt.

Armis is one of those inventions that simply needed to happen. It meets a foundational, unmet need in cybersecurity, namely the ability to 'see all evil' (on the network) by discovering rogue devices and providing real time intelligence about their identity and condition. With Armis, theres no need for an army of engineers or analysts to decipher complex systems and their signals, said Spencer Mott, Chief Security Officer, Booking Holdings.

Analyst Recognition and Accolades

In 2023, Armis was recognized both in the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 for its growth and high performance, and by Fast Company as the most innovative security company of 2023. Additionally, it has been named an honoree to the Inc. 5000 list, and its Armis Partner Experience Program (APEX) was given a 5 star rating in the 2023 CRN Partner Program Guide.



If you would like to know more about Armis award-winning solutions, visit armis.com or contact us at [email protected].

About Armis

Armis, the asset intelligence cybersecurity company, protects the entire attack surface and manages the organization's cyber risk exposure in real time. In a rapidly evolving, perimeter-less world Armis ensures that organizations continuously see, secure, protect and manage all critical assets. Armis secures Fortune 100, 200 and 500 companies as well as national governments, state and local entities to help keep critical infrastructure, economies and society stay safe and secure 24/7. Armis is a privately held company headquartered in California.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913743526/en/
Galvanize Climate Solutions (Galvanize), a global climate-focused investment firm, today announced the final close of its Innovation + Expansion Fund (the Fund) at over $1 billion. With commitments from a diverse set of institutional investors, including leading endowments, foundations and family offices, the Fund is one of the largest climate venture funds raised to date. The Fund targets investments in early- to growth- stage climate companies that drive timely decarbonization, providing both capital as well as interdisciplinary resources to help accelerate the path to commercial scale.

Founded by seasoned investors with decades of collective experience working in the climate ecosystem, Galvanize is purpose-built to scale the defining climate companies of our generation. To this end, Galvanize has assembled a veteran investment team augmented by in-house experts in disciplines vital to climate company builders - including climate science and technology, regulatory affairs, market development, impact measurement, and talent acquisition. With these resources, the Fund is distinctly positioned to identify, evaluate, and amplify transformative climate companies.

Fully realizing the most significant investment opportunity of our time and succeeding in ushering in the climate transition will require more than capital alone, said Tom Steyer, Co-Executive Chair of Galvanize, who previously founded and ran one of the first multi-strategy global investment firms, Farallon Capital Management, which grew to over $36 billion in assets under management under his leadership. Thats why, based on years of investment experience and an understanding of the resources needed to accelerate critical climate solutions, we deliberately built Galvanize to forge a new model for climate investing, alongside constructing a world-class team built for this moment. We are thrilled to have the support of our partners in pursuit of this opportunity.

The Fund is led by Veery Maxwell, Saloni Multani and Cliff Ryan, who collectively bring deep climate expertise coupled with a history of building and managing multi-billion dollar investment strategies at leading global firms, including Hellman & Friedman and Riverstone Holdings.

We are witnessing an inflection point in the transformation of the global economy, said Saloni Multani, co-head of Innovation + Expansion at Galvanize. The alignment of market forces  including corporate commitments, regulatory and policy progress, consumer expectations, workforce talent preferences, technological maturation and economic competitiveness  is driving substantial tailwinds behind the climate sector. We believe immense value will accrue to the technologies and solutions that can drive meaningful decarbonization over the next decade.

With its climate-focused, integrated model, the Fund takes an interdisciplinary approach across the full cycle of an investment, providing a differentiated set of resources to advantage the companies in its portfolio and create long-term value for its investors. This includes facilitating priority customer introductions, assisting talent recruitment, and providing regulatory analysis and guidance. Members of Galvanizes portfolio services team have previously held roles at ARPA-E, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the White House Council on Environmental Quality, among other leading climate, technology and government organizations.

To-date, the fund has invested in 11 companies across the electricity, transport, industry, buildings, agriculture and carbon removal sectors: alcemy, Arable, Lydian, Plotlogic, Pulsora, Regrow, The Routing Company, VEIR, Watershed, Worldly and Zhero.

ABOUT GALVANIZE CLIMATE SOLUTIONS

Galvanize Climate Solutions (Galvanize) is a climate-focused global investment firm delivering capital and expertise to accelerate climate solutions. Founded by Katie Hall and Tom Steyer, Galvanize invests across asset classes including venture capital and growth equity, public equities, and real estate. We integrate expertise across investment, climate impact, measurement, market development, talent, technology, and policy with the aim of driving material climate impact and creating long-term value for our investors.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914589611/en/
CRED - a high-trust community of creditworthy individuals, brands, and institutions and Shopify Inc. (NYSE, TSX:SHOP), a provider of essential internet infrastructure for commerce, today announced a partnership extending CREDs payment options to merchants on the Shopify platform. CRED members can use their trusted and preferred payment option for a seamless and fast shopping experience on Shopify merchant platforms



CRED pay is already live on select Shopify merchants and will soon be available to all merchants, brands interested to onboard can register on https://cred.club/cred-pay/onboarding



CRED members tend to spend 40% more than the average consumer when shopping online. With this integration, Shopify merchants can add CRED Pay - a trusted payment partner - to their payment stack. This will enable merchants to improve prepaid conversions and offer a seamless and rewarding shopping experience to the top 1% of consumers in the country. CRED members can transact on Shopify-powered merchant websites using their preferred payment modes and access curated rewards and offers.



Why chose CRED pay:

Trusted: CRED members trust CRED for all their payments - bills, merchant payments, shopping, and more. The addition of CREDs payment suite on Shopify extends this for our members on merchant apps and websites.

CRED members trust CRED for all their payments - bills, merchant payments, shopping, and more. The addition of CREDs payment suite on Shopify extends this for our members on merchant apps and websites. Frictionless: With CRED pay, members can opt for their preferred payment method - credit cards, or UPI to make payments.

With CRED pay, members can opt for their preferred payment method - credit cards, or UPI to make payments. Plug and play: CRED pay is simple to integrate and activate for merchants . They need to simply install the CRED plugin and go live with enabling CRED pay. Explore more https://cred.club/cred-pay/onboarding



With zero fees for merchants, applicable for the first 30 days, brands can curate exclusive benefits and rewards for CRED members.



CRED X Shopify will expand the D2C brand ecosystem available for CRED members to discover and experience. For anyone looking to build a D2C first brand or build their online business, Shopify is the platform of choice. Shopify merchants can leverage the trusted payment suite from CRED to unlock greater revenue potential by enabling smooth transactions, expanding payment options, and building curated campaigns for CRED members," said Miten Sampat from CRED.



D2C brands have been driving e-commerce growth in the country. Partnering with CRED enables Shopify D2C merchants to engage CRED members - the top 1% of Indian shoppers. Through this collaboration, we broaden the range of payment choices for our merchants, facilitating seamless transactions and delivering an effortless and convenient e-commerce experience for businesses, said Bharati Balakrishnan, India Country Head and Director at Shopify.



"CRED & Shopify are trusted and preferred brands in their own segments and with the two coming together, the shopping and payment process have become a no-effort process for the shoppers and a hassle-free onboarding for brands. We look forward to scaling our growth with CRED and Shopify," Ishendra Agarwal, Founder and CEO, GIVA.



"We've been engaging with CRED across multiple constructs to drive growth, and have been a long-time customer of Shopify. The integration of CRED pay with Shopify will help us deliver seamless experiences to CRED members on our website and app. We have already seen 10-12% of our transactions on CRED pay with CRED members demonstrating higher ticket sizes and lower return behaviors," Siddharth Dungarwala, Founder and CEO, Snitch.



CRED pay is already live on leading Shopify merchants like GIVA, Snitch, Suta, HEADS UP FOR TAILS, XYXX, and more. As a result of the integration some of the brands are already witnessing early successes in prepaid conversion rate and increase in basket size.



Along with Shopify, GoKwik partners with CRED. It is live across 50+ GoKwik partner merchants. One-click checkout experience with assured rewards ensuring a high prepaid success rate and conversion rate.



To know more about CRED please visit - https://cred.club/

To know more about Shopify please visit - https://www.shopify.com/in
Ecopol S.p.A. (Ecopol or the Company), a leading developer and producer of innovative biodegradable films and delivery systems, announced today the completion of a strategic investment from affiliates of SK Capital Partners, LP (SK Capital), a leading private investment firm focused on the specialty materials, ingredients, and life sciences sectors. SK Capital has acquired a majority interest in the Company with Mauro Carbone, Ecopols CEO and controlling shareholder, retaining a significant stake and remaining as both the CEO and largest individual shareholder. It is also announced the formation of a new Board of Directors, which includes industry leaders with extensive experience across sustainable materials and consumer packaged goods (CPG) markets in Ecopols value chains, including Jan-Dirk Auris, E. Craig Mitchell, Daniele Ferrari and Dave Mezzanotte.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913054522/en/

Ecopol is pleased to begin our partnership with SK Capital and to be working with a diverse team of high-impact industry executives who have joined our Board of Directors, said Mauro Carbone, Ecopol CEO. I am excited for the next chapter of our journey as we work together to accelerate Ecopols rapid growth and continue to make strategic investments to provide even greater value for our global customer base and bring more sustainable solutions to both existing and new markets. We are grateful to Roberto Quagliuolo, Luca Bucelli and Laurent Labatut for their contributions as former Board Directors and look forward to Tikehau Capitals continued support as an ongoing minority shareholder.

In partnership with Mauro, we have assembled a world-class Board of Directors who will be highly impactful in helping Ecopol execute its strategic priorities and achieve its vision to become the global leader in highly innovative and sustainable delivery systems, added Stephen DIncelli, Managing Director at SK Capital. We look forward as a Board to supporting Mauro and his leadership team in driving Ecopols next phase of transformational growth.

In connection with the closing, SK Capital and Mauro have appointed the following Board Directors:

Jan-Dirk Auris spent over 35 years at Henkel AG & Co. KGaA (Henkel), where he served in a variety of senior executive roles and as a member of the Henkel Management Board. He most recently led Henkels Adhesives Technologies business unit, where he had extensive experience serving leading global CPG companies. Mr. Auris played a leading role in implementing a new performance management playbook across Henkel and driving innovation and sustainability initiatives.

E. Craig Mitchell has over 35 years of experience in the specialty materials industry and currently serves as President, Flavors and Extracts Group at Sensient Technologies Corporation. He previously served in critical roles at global leaders in Ecopols supply chain, including President and COO of Sekisui Specialty Chemicals America, LLC, a manufacturer of polyvinyl alcohol, as well as VP of Sales, Americas of Celanese Corporation, a producer of vinyl acetate monomer.

Daniele Ferrari will serve as Board Chairman. Mr. Ferrari, who is based full-time in Italy, has over 35 years of experience in the specialty materials industry, most recently as the CEO of Versalis S.p.A., the largest chemical company in Italy, and as Chairman of Matrica S.p.A., a joint-venture with Novamont, a leader in the bio-plastics industry at the forefront of renewable chemistry. Mr. Ferrari has served as a Senior Director at SK Capital and brings significant sustainability leadership in prior roles as President of the European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC), President of Plastics Europe, and as a board member of the Alliance to End Plastics Waste.

Dave Mezzanotte has over 40 years of experience in the specialty materials and packaging industries and has served as a Senior Director at SK Capital since 2018. He previously was Chairman and CEO of Coveris, a global manufacturer of flexible consumer packaging, and CEO of CHEP, a global logistics services provider for CPGs.

The Board of Directors also includes Mauro Carbone, Ecopol CEO and significant minority investor; Stephen dIncelli, Deal Lead and Managing Director at SK Capital; and Josh Lieberman, Principal at SK Capital.

Latham & Watkins LLP served as legal counsel to SK Capital. Lead arrangers and bookrunners Credit Agricole Italia S.p.A. and Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A provided committed financing in support of the transaction. Legance and Alpeggiani Studio Legale Associato served as legal counsel and STS Deloitte served as tax advisor to Ecopol. UBS served as financial advisor.

About Ecopol

Ecopol is a leading global producer of water-soluble and biodegradable films. The Companys innovative delivery systems for unit-dose applications allow the worlds leading brands to significantly reduce CO 2 emissions and the usage of water and virgin plastic throughout their supply chains. Headquartered in Chiesina Uzzanese, Tuscany, Ecopol operates production campuses in Italy and the United States, providing the highest levels of service, technical support and innovation partnership to its worldwide customer base. For more information, please visit www.ecopol.com.

About SK Capital

SK Capital is a private investment firm with a disciplined focus on the specialty materials, ingredients and life sciences sectors. The firm seeks to build resilient, sustainable and growing businesses that create substantial long-term economic value. SK Capital aims to utilize its industry, operating and investment experience to identify opportunities to transform businesses into higher performing organizations with improved strategic positioning, growth and profitability, as well as lower operating risk. SK Capitals portfolio of businesses generates revenues of approximately $17 billion annually, employs more than 25,000 people globally, and operates more than 200 plants in over 30 countries. The firm currently has approximately $7.8 billion in assets under management. For more information, please visit www.skcapitalpartners.com.

About Tikehau Capital

Tikehau Capital is a global alternative asset management group with 41.1 billion of assets under management (as of 30 June 2023). Tikehau Capital has developed a wide range of expertise across four asset classes (private debt, real assets, private equity and capital markets strategies) as well as multi-asset and special opportunities strategies. Leveraging its strong equity base (3.1 billion of shareholders equity as of 30 June 2023), the firm invests its own capital alongside its investor-clients within each of its strategies. Controlled by its managers alongside leading institutional partners, Tikehau Capital is guided by a strong entrepreneurial spirit and DNA, shared by its 742 employees (as of 30 June 2023) across its 15 offices in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and North America. Tikehau Capital is listed in compartment A of the regulated Euronext Paris market (ISIN code: FR0013230612; Ticker: TKO.FP). For more information, please visit www.tikehaucapital.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913054522/en/
Takedas Five New Partnerships Boost Total Global CSR Program Contributions to JPY 24.2 Billion (Approx. USD 167.5 million) Since Program Inception in 2016.

More Than 24,500 Takeda Employees Worldwide Participated in the Selection of the Five New Partnerships: Society for Family Health Rwanda, Relief International, Mercy Corps, University of Nairobi and Partners In Health.

With This New Cohort of Partnerships, Takedas Global CSR Program Expects to Reach 25.2 Million People in 92 Countries by 2028.



Takeda (TSE:4502/NYSE:TAK) today announced five new partnerships to its Global Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Program, which contribute to strengthening health systems in low- and middle-income countries. The new partnerships bring its total contributions to JPY 24.2 billion (Approx. USD 167.5 million) across 29 long-term partnerships. Takedas workforce is an integral part of the annual decision-making process as over 24,500 purpose-led employees participated in the selection of the five new partnerships. Takeda expects that Global CSR Programs new five partnerships will bring its reach to 25.2 million people in 92 countries by 2028.

Our 242-year-old heritage has taught us that creating sustainable positive impact not only takes time but also requires us to constantly adapt and look to the future. There are no quick fixes to global health challenges, which are complex, multi-dimensional and context dependent. While each of these partnerships will support health systems strengthening in unique and innovative ways, there are two common threads: an equity lens focused on marginalized groups and a systems approach prioritizing lasting outcomes over quick wins, says Takako Ohyabu, Takedas chief global corporate affairs and sustainability officer. These partnerships explicitly target marginalized and/or vulnerable groups who lack quality health services and access to essential medicines, whether that is due to conflict, climate change, natural disasters, or socio-economic reasons. We take a long-term view, working with partners who have local knowledge and ownership, adopting a systems approach to develop resilient and equitable health systems which are also responsive to climate change.

Takedas commitments to these new partners in FY2023 include:

JPY 834 million (Approx. USD 5.8 million) to Society for Family Health, Rwanda to expand access to quality healthcare in remote and hard-to-reach communities in Rwanda through the establishment of 20 second-generation health posts under a public-private-community-partnership model. The program introduces new infrastructure, empowers long-term local leadership, strengthens the provision of comprehensive care and empowers the health workforce. It will also leverage technology to improve data-driven decision-making to scale improved health outcomes across the country.

to expand access to quality healthcare in remote and hard-to-reach communities in Rwanda through the establishment of 20 second-generation health posts under a public-private-community-partnership model. The program introduces new infrastructure, empowers long-term local leadership, strengthens the provision of comprehensive care and empowers the health workforce. It will also leverage technology to improve data-driven decision-making to scale improved health outcomes across the country. JPY 1,146 million (Approx. USD 7.9 million) to Relief International to improve access to essential medicines and medical supplies in communities devastated by conflict, climate change and disaster in Afghanistan, Yemen, Myanmar and Syria. This program will strengthen capabilities of local suppliers to generate reliable supply chains of quality essential medicines, benefitting local and humanitarian communities access and informing scalable global solutions.

to improve access to essential medicines and medical supplies in communities devastated by conflict, climate change and disaster in Afghanistan, Yemen, Myanmar and Syria. This program will strengthen capabilities of local suppliers to generate reliable supply chains of quality essential medicines, benefitting local and humanitarian communities access and informing scalable global solutions. JPY 1,048 million (Approx. USD 7.3 million) to Mercy Corps to help climate-fragile communities save lives, improve health, and build climate resiliency for over 3 million people through the addition of Resilience Hubs in Jamaica, U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia, as part of their Caribbean Resilience Initiative. As natural disasters become more frequent and devastating, the program will help communities prepare for the worst by activating immediate access to life-saving information, portable water, energy, and health and social services, while also directly informing the creation of a scalable resilience model to benefit this region and beyond.

to help climate-fragile communities save lives, improve health, and build climate resiliency for over 3 million people through the addition of Resilience Hubs in Jamaica, U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia, as part of their Caribbean Resilience Initiative. As natural disasters become more frequent and devastating, the program will help communities prepare for the worst by activating immediate access to life-saving information, portable water, energy, and health and social services, while also directly informing the creation of a scalable resilience model to benefit this region and beyond. JPY 671 million (Approx. USD 4.6 million) to Partners In Health to elevate and equip 3,000 nurses and midwives in Haiti, Mexico, Peru, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Rwanda and Sierra Leone to become recognized leaders in the areas of health system administration and health policy. By promoting more diverse and equitable leadership across gender, socioeconomic, and racial lines, the program will improve the recruitment and retention of frontline health workforce, improve health outcomes, and realize sustainable health gains.

to elevate and equip 3,000 nurses and midwives in Haiti, Mexico, Peru, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Rwanda and Sierra Leone to become recognized leaders in the areas of health system administration and health policy. By promoting more diverse and equitable leadership across gender, socioeconomic, and racial lines, the program will improve the recruitment and retention of frontline health workforce, improve health outcomes, and realize sustainable health gains. JPY 793 million (Approx. USD 5.5 million) to University of Nairobi to create a pioneering, public health-focused machine learning and data science training program to strengthen the leadership pipeline and impact of women to improve health in their communities. The program will train and empower 800 underprivileged girls and young women across 6 regions in Kenya. By cultivating a diversified pool of data scientists, it will contribute to reducing biases and gender gaps in public health data and artificial intelligence and create a model for scale across the African continent.



The new partners shared:

Our partnership with Takeda signifies shared commitment to expanding access to quality healthcare and improving well-being of Rwandans. Together, we are making a profound impact, building a healthier and brighter future for vulnerable groups, said Manasseh Gihana Wandera , executive director of Society for Family Health, Rwanda.

executive director of Society for Family Health, Rwanda. Relief Internationals new partnership with Takeda will ensure the timely and reliable provision of essential medicines and quality medical supplies in Afghanistan, Yemen, Myanmar, and Syria. Together, we will contribute to saving lives in four of the most challenging places globally and reduce the carbon footprint of our humanitarian supply chains, said Craig Redmond, CEO of Relief International

Now is the time to take bold action to help communities adapt in the face of a worsening climate crisis, more frequent and intense extreme weather events. Our partnership with Takeda enables Mercy Corps to bring our Resilience Hub model to support more communities across the Caribbean to better prepare for, survive, and recover from natural disasters and build a more resilient future, said Tjada DOyen McKenna, CEO of Mercy Corps

By elevating the voices of nurses and midwivesthe backbone of the global health workforce, Partner In Healths partnership with Takeda will transform hierarchies to include nurses and midwives in decision making. Greater gender and professional equity in leadership, retention of frontline staff, and expert insight from the bedside will catalyze stronger health systems and better, more equitable health outcomes, said Sheila Davis, CEO of Partners In Health

University of Nairobi is excited to collaborate with Takeda to lead in the cultivation of a diverse, gender-balanced pool of data scientists by empowering and training underprivileged women so that we can address biases in public health data and machine learning and achieve better health outcomes, said Prof Stephen Kiama, vice-chancellor of the University of Nairobi



Since its launch in 2016, Takedas Global CSR Program has contributed to strengthening health systems including the following, which are informed by WHOs Health System Strengthening Building Blocks:

Service Delivery and Access to Essential Medicines: Directly benefited more than 11.2 million people, by improving accessibility, coverage and quality of service delivery e.g., screening, referrals and follow ups; immunized over 4.6 million children against preventable diseases such as measles; and provided more than 2.3 million community members with targeted health education including on nutrition, water, sanitation, hygiene and sexual and reproductive health.

Directly benefited more than 11.2 million people, by improving accessibility, coverage and quality of service delivery e.g., screening, referrals and follow ups; immunized over 4.6 million children against preventable diseases such as measles; and provided more than 2.3 million community members with targeted health education including on nutrition, water, sanitation, hygiene and sexual and reproductive health. Health Workforce: Developed knowledge, skills, motivation, and deployment of health workforce, by training over 68,000 qualified health professionals and community health workers responsible for organizing and delivering health services as well as those who do not deliver services directly but are essential to the performance of health systems such as health supply chain managers and health information system administrators.

Developed knowledge, skills, motivation, and deployment of health workforce, by training over 68,000 qualified health professionals and community health workers responsible for organizing and delivering health services as well as those who do not deliver services directly but are essential to the performance of health systems such as health supply chain managers and health information system administrators. Health Information Systems: Developed, enhanced, or implemented 49 digital solutions, platforms, or tools to support data-informed health planning and health decision-making.

Developed, enhanced, or implemented 49 digital solutions, platforms, or tools to support data-informed health planning and health decision-making. Leadership and Governance: Developed or enhanced 285 strategic plans and policies, which are linked to national and local needs and priorities to ensure local ownership and making it likely that innovative solutions are being sustained and scaled.



About Takeda

Takeda is focused on creating better health for people and a brighter future for the world. We aim to discover and deliver life-transforming treatments in our core therapeutic and business areas, including gastrointestinal and inflammation, rare diseases, plasma-derived therapies, oncology, neuroscience and vaccines. Together with our partners, we aim to improve the patient experience and advance a new frontier of treatment options through our dynamic and diverse pipeline. As a leading values-based, R&D-driven biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Japan, we are guided by our commitment to patients, our people and the planet. Our employees in approximately 80 countries and regions are driven by our purpose and are grounded in the values that have defined us for more than two centuries. For more information, visit www.takeda.com.

Important Notice

For the purposes of this notice, press release means this document, any oral presentation, any question and answer session and any written or oral material discussed or distributed by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (Takeda) regarding this release. This press release (including any oral briefing and any question-and-answer in connection with it) is not intended to, and does not constitute, represent or form part of any offer, invitation or solicitation of any offer to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, exchange, sell or otherwise dispose of, any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction. No shares or other securities are being offered to the public by means of this press release. No offering of securities shall be made in the United States except pursuant to registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom. This press release is being given (together with any further information which may be provided to the recipient) on the condition that it is for use by the recipient for information purposes only (and not for the evaluation of any investment, acquisition, disposal or any other transaction). Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of applicable securities laws.

The companies in which Takeda directly and indirectly owns investments are separate entities. In this press release, Takeda is sometimes used for convenience where references are made to Takeda and its subsidiaries in general. Likewise, the words we, us and our are also used to refer to subsidiaries in general or to those who work for them. These expressions are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular company or companies.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release and any materials distributed in connection with this press release may contain forward-looking statements, beliefs or opinions regarding Takedas future business, future position and results of operations, including estimates, forecasts, targets and plans for Takeda. Without limitation, forward-looking statements often include words such as targets, plans, believes, hopes, continues, expects, aims, intends, ensures, will, may, should, would, could, anticipates, estimates, projects or similar expressions or the negative thereof. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions about many important factors, including the following, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements: the economic circumstances surrounding Takedas global business, including general economic conditions in Japan and the United States; competitive pressures and developments; changes to applicable laws and regulations, including global health care reforms; challenges inherent in new product development, including uncertainty of clinical success and decisions of regulatory authorities and the timing thereof; uncertainty of commercial success for new and existing products; manufacturing difficulties or delays; fluctuations in interest and currency exchange rates; claims or concerns regarding the safety or efficacy of marketed products or product candidates; the impact of health crises, like the novel coronavirus pandemic, on Takeda and its customers and suppliers, including foreign governments in countries in which Takeda operates, or on other facets of its business; the timing and impact of post-merger integration efforts with acquired companies; the ability to divest assets that are not core to Takedas operations and the timing of any such divestment(s); and other factors identified in Takedas most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F and Takedas other reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, available on Takedas website at: https://www.takeda.com/investors/sec-filings-and-security-reports/ or at www.sec.gov. Takeda does not undertake to update any of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release or any other forward-looking statements it may make, except as required by law or stock exchange rule. Past performance is not an indicator of future results and the results or statements of Takeda in this press release may not be indicative of, and are not an estimate, forecast, guarantee or projection of Takedas future results.

Exchange Rates

In this press release, certain amounts presented in Japanese yen have been translated to US dollars solely for the convenience of the reader. Except where otherwise noted, these convenience translations have been made at an exchange rate of 1USD = 144.47 JPY, the Noon Buying Rate certified by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on June 30, 2023. The rate and methodologies used for these convenience translations differ from the currency exchange rates and translation methodologies under IFRS used for the preparation of Takedas consolidated financial statements. These translations should not be construed as a representation that the relevant Japanese yen amounts could be converted into U.S. dollars at this or any other rate.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913874159/en/
Interview: U.S. military hegemony leads to dire situation in Afghanistan, says scholar

Xinhua) 10:39, September 14, 2023

KABUL, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. military hegemony is responsible for the dire situation Afghans face today, an expert has said.

"The initial stages of U.S. intervention in Afghanistan were characterized by a lack of clear objectives," Jalal Bazwan, a lecturer at Kabul-based Kardan University, said in a seminar recently held by Xinhua Institute, the think tank of Xinhua News Agency.

In a newly-released report, titled "Origins, Facts and Perils of U.S. Military Hegemony," Xinhua Institute outlines the formation of the U.S. military hegemony, summarizes the means Washington adopted to maintain it, and delves into its perils by presenting facts and data.

Bazwan said that deviating from fighting with al-Qaeda, the United States was involved in "a protracted engagement without a visible endgame" and "combating elusive adversaries in asymmetrical warfare."

During the two-decade-long war, the United States backed a leadership, which Uncle Sam bragged about but failed. "The increase in warlords with tainted records and human rights abuses eroded trust among the Afghan population," he said.

"The ensuing disconnection between the leadership and the people hampered efforts to build a legitimate and stable Afghan government," said Bazwan.

The U.S. invasion exacerbated corruption within the Afghan society, the scholar said. "The corruption in Afghanistan cannot be solely attributed to the Afghan government because a significant portion of the development funds was channeled through the DOD (U.S. Department of Defense), USAID (the United States Agency for International Development) and other U.S. agencies."

"These agencies directly managed these funds, and the Afghan government received only a minimal share for developmental projects," he added.

Bazwan said the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan two years ago damaged America's reputation globally.

Chaotic evacuations marked the withdrawal, he said. "Some people were given more priorities to leave. This left Afghanistan's future uncertain because many educated and skilled people left the country. This has caused Afghanistan to lose many talented people who could have helped the country."

The United States was seen as a superpower that could project its global power and influence. However, he said that its pull-out from Afghanistan has shown that the superpower is not invincible and that determined adversaries can defeat it.

"This has led to a decline in confidence in the United States and made it more difficult for it to build alliances and maintain its influence in the world," Bazwan said.

He noted the long-term effects of the U.S. military rule in Afghanistan, including environmental damage and human suffering and deaths.

"The toxic environmental and humanitarian ramifications of extensive aerial bombardments caused civilian casualties and inflicted lasting ecological damage," said Bazwan.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The state of Texas is often viewed as an impenetrable cesspool of conservatism. Texas and other Southern states are known for the frequent attacks by the ruling class and their state governments against workers, women, immigrants, LGBTQ people, etc., and many people write off the state entirely, thinking that this stranglehold cant be broken.

[Originally published at socialistrevolution.org]

I say to those people: youd best think again! If you look beyond the surface, its clear that revolutionary sentiments are brewing throughout the state. Texas is not isolated from the pressures of capitalism and is impacted just like the rest of the world by events.

Capitalism is at a historic impasse, and this has massive consequences on the consciousness of workers and youth, Texans included. There are millions of Millennials and Gen Z looking for answers. All theyve experienced is crisis, after crisis, after crisis. The experience of capitalist society in decay is now bringing untold numbers of youth and workers to revolutionary conclusions. So much so, that a recent poll by the Fraser Institute found that 20% of people aged 1834 say communism is the ideal economic system!

We in the IMT noticed this massive shift in consciousness and realized the need to seriously connect with and organize this layer of youth thats moving towards communism. We are asking the youth: are you a communist? And young Texans are answering with a resounding YES! In North Texas, we have been postering, stickering, and organizing many recruitment tables over the past few weeks, and we have been getting extraordinary results. Millions of youth in the state are disgusted by the reactionary state governmentboth the Democrats and Republicans alikeand are reacting against it.

Capitalism is at a historic impasse, and its been standing room only at communist meetings in North Texas / Image: Socialist Revolution

Even more importantly, a significant layer of these young people are realizing that they need to organize. In fact, the comrades in North Texas recently tripled the number of comrades in the branches in the span of just one month!

I want to show some of the online messages we have received, as they show this militant mood thats starting to permeate throughout the youth:

This country only looks out for the richest, Im tired of it. Richardson, TX Its getting frustrating to see how much the world is dying due to climate change and how many people arent able to live comfortably while billionaires have all the power in the world to fix everything. Its immoral and we need to change things. Denton, TX I believe communism is the only way that humanity can sustainably live on this planet. Denton, TX Capitalism is only a system of exploitation through coercion. It threatens our very existence, and promises minority rule without protection for the majority. It is class warfare disguised as personal failure. Watauga, TX

Weve received messages like these from virtually every major city in the United States. Increasing numbers of workers and students are starting to openly state that they are communists. Theyre fed up with the current state of affairs and want to seek the overthrow of the capitalist system. Were still at the beginning, but by organizing this layer of people we can lay the foundations for a future mass communist party. The construction of such a party will have a massive impact on the political situation in the United States and across the world.

The new layer of communists understand that only Bolshevism, built on the granite foundation of Marxist theory, provides an effective guide to revolutionary action / Image: Socialist Revolution

This new layerthe AYAC (Are You a Communist?) layertheyre ready for action, but understand that this action cant be taken blindly or unconsciously. That is why theyre seeking theory and education in order to find the correct path of action. Only Bolshevism, built on the granite foundation of Marxist theory, provides this.

Lenins advice to the communist youth resonates profoundly in this moment: I must say that the tasks of the youth in general might be summed up in a single word: learn.

And comrades, we must take this to heart! We dont have all the time in the world to build the mass communist party. We must learn quickly. Events are providing us with many experiences to draw lessons from. Ultimately, we must recruit, and train up this layer of communist youth in Marxist theory, so that our class, the working class, has the leadership it deserves. If you are a communist but youre not yet organized, get in touch with the IMT, so we can build that leadership, end the barbarism of capitalism, and achieve the victory of socialism in our lifetime!
To create innovative solutions and cutting-edge technologies, nations around the world must train and educate future engineers better. Engineering is still one of the most sought-after programs for students from India. Given how difficult it is to get into a prestigious institute in India, many students look to universities abroad to pursue their engineering aspirations. While the US and the UK remain the student population's two all-time favorites, Singapore, Australia, Canada, and Germany are also catching their attention.

When choosing a location, a number of considerations, including return on investment, part-time employment alternatives, safety, tuition costs, career opportunities, and the preferred method of instruction, are important. Here are the top five countries where you can pursue your ambition of becoming an engineer.

Best Countries to Study Engineering Abroad

If engineering is your field of study, these are the best places to study abroad:

1. USA

What makes the USA a desirable location to pursue an engineering degree? The United States is very alluring to Indians due to its thriving Indian community, numerous top-tier universities, and use of English as the primary language of instruction. Over 70 of the more than 500 engineering universities worldwide are American. The USA is already regarded as one of the best countries for technical education. Many students are attracted by solid placement opportunities. In the USA, there were roughly 103,260 students enrolled in higher education in 2011. There were 8,697 more students this year than the year before! Sowriranjan Sampath, an engineer with a top MNC in the US, claims that after finishing his engineering degree there, it wasn't difficult to obtain employment and make this place his permanent home. The fact that there are many Indian students and faculty personnel on campus benefits the Indian students.

One of the top places to study engineering is in the US. In the USA, undergraduate engineering programs last four years. If you're applying to the undergraduate engineering program, the majority of engineering universities demand a SAT exam score. In addition to possessing a UG degree in engineering, mathematics, or science, applicants to graduate engineering programs must also have a GRE score. The TOEFL exam is also required for international students. For consistency in course requirements and standards among universities, the majority of undergraduate engineering programs in the US are recognized by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). In the US, universities often handle their own admissions procedures. You must begin applying early because different universities have different admission requirements.

2. Australia

Another well-liked location for engineering studies is Australia. Due to their superior method of experiential learning, Australian institutions stand out. Australian universities do research of a fairly high caliber, and their degrees are recognized all around the world. Indians have been welcomed to Australia's shores for almost 20 years, and they continue to come here in large numbers for higher education. Australia is renowned for having a top-notch educational system that prioritizes experiential learning above memorization. Their degrees are relevant and accepted by all.

You must possess the Class 12 passing certificate, which is equal to Australia's senior secondary certificate of education, in order to enroll in an undergraduate program there. Almost all programs demand an IELTS score, which must not have been taken more than 24 months prior to the application deadline and preferably be more current. Students should achieve a minimum IELTS score of 6 and a Class 12 board exam score of 60%. Intakes typically occur in Australia twice a year in February and July. Students who want to be accepted into an engineering program must have taken mathematics as a required course from class eight through class twelve. The program lasts for three years. Most institutions charge between A$10,000 and A$16,500 ($5,80,000 to 10,00,000) in annual tuition. Indian students are eligible for scholarships.

3. UK

The UK is the starting point for international students looking to pursue higher education overseas because it is home to some of the oldest academic institutions in the world. Engineering universities in the UK provide graduates with industrial exposure when it comes to studying engineering degrees. More than 1000 courses are available at UK universities and colleges, and there is a lot of flexibility in how a subject can be studied. A Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Science Engineering (BSc.Eng), Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng), or Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degree can be earned in engineering in the United Kingdom after 4-5 years of study.

There are several specialities available, including Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, etc., making UK universities one of the most popular and best countries for engineering education. The majority of the engineering bachelor's programs in the UK last four years, and the master's programs are much more prestigious. Since access might be difficult for all of these reasons, admissions are always limited.

4. Singapore

Singapore's engineering programs have top-notch facilities and equipment. Singapore is a popular destination for engineering students due to the lower cost of education and plentiful work prospects. For Indians who desire to study abroad in Singapore, its close proximity to India is a major selling advantage. For Indian students seeking a foreign engineering education, this location is relatively affordable due to the availability of renowned colleges, worldwide exposure, and manageable living costs.

The average annual cost of tuition is between S$24,000 and S$30,000 (Rs. 10,80,000 and 13,50,000). Singapore is one of the few nations that provides large scholarships to students from outside, but getting one is very difficult. In comparison to any western nation, the admissions process is easy. Internationally recognized degrees are offered by the three universities: National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and Singapore Management University (SMU). Numerous foreign universities either have satellite campuses (institutes of higher education) or have local partnerships (collaborations/programs) with Singaporean universities. INSEAD, Duke University, Georgia Tech, MIT, and others are a few of them.

5. Germany

In the areas of research, science, and technology, Germany is a global leader. The nation has produced some of the best engineers in the world because of its more than 300 higher education institutions. Due to the majority of German institutions receiving state funding, Germany offers the greatest and most affordable study alternatives for international students. The majority of programs are taught solely in English in Germany, thus proficiency in German is not necessary. You are welcome to enroll in the university's free German language classes if you want to study the language. Germany is renowned for its industrial and car industries. Additionally, it is the most popular place to study engineering abroad.

Eligibility for Studying Engineering Abroad

Students must achieve certain qualifications in order to study engineering abroad. The following points will give a general summary of the prerequisites, which vary for different universities:

Class 12th exams with Advanced Functions, Calculus & Vectors, Chemistry, English, and Physics (varies per university).

SAT or ACT scores, which may differ depending on the university.

GMAT or GRE scores, depending on the university.

IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo scores are examples of English language competency tests.

current resume.

Statement of Purpose (SOP).

Letters of recommendation, or LORs.

Essay.
The Communications Workers of America (CWA), a union for workers in telecommunications, media, and other fields, has filed an amicus brief supporting the Microsoft/Activision Blizzard merger.

Whats an amicus brief? An amicus brief is filed by a person or party that wishes to make their support for one side of an ongoing case official. The CWAs amicus brief was filed with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, which is overseeing the Microsoft/Activision Blizzard merger.

Why is the CWA in favor of the merger? The union is supporting the merger to initiate a legally enforceable labor neutrality agreement between Microsoft and the CWA. Once the merger is approved, the agreement would immediately allow all Activision Blizzard workers to freely discuss and begin working towards unionizing. As an independent company, Activision Blizzard has pushed back hard against any attempts by employees to organize.

What is the labor neutrality agreement? The agreement was made between the CWA and Microsoft in June of 2022. As part of the pact, Microsoft has committed to noninterference when employees at any studio under its umbrella express interest in unionizing. The company would also facilitate communication between Microsoft employees and union representatives. The agreement also establishes a streamlined voting process, which the organizations say better protects employee confidentiality and privacy. Lastly, agreement includes a pledge from both sides to work together to resolve future disputes quickly and use an expedited arbitration process to settle on a first contract if necessary.

Is this all legit? According to the CWA, Microsoft has already demonstrated its commitment to the agreement by extending its provision to its current employees. When the company purchased Zenimax Studios in 2020, Microsoft remained neutral when Zenimax employees attempted to unionize. That union now represents 300 workers and is the largest of its type in the U.S. gaming industry. The union says that agreements like the one it has with Microsoft should be viewed as preferred remedies in situations where labor market concerns exist.

What are they saying? The CWA brief filed on Wednesday states:
Were just over a week away from this years Ottawa International Animation Festival and growing more enthusiastic by the day.

This year, the festival received 2165 submissions from 85 countries. In the end, 40 were picked to participate in the 2023 main shorts competition. We watched them all and have selected 10 films that attendees should be sure to check out.

Ottawa will take place in Canadas capital city from September 20-24. For more information, visit animationfestival.ca.

27, Flora Anna Buda (France, Hungary)

This isnt the first time weve recommended 27, which already beat out all the live-action competition at Cannes to win the short film Palme dOr and took the top prize at Annecy this year. 27 is Budas second short; her debut Entropia was a revelation in 2019, winning awards at GLAS and the Berlinale. In 27, Alice is celebrating her 27th birthday. An adult by almost any measure, she is suffocating a bit as she still lives with her parents and nosey younger brother. Feeling stuck, she regularly disappears into her dreams to escape her dreary everyday life. After a psychedelic party on a factory roof  featuring a visual feat of colors, shapes, and movement  Alice is involved in a serious drunken bike accident. But will a brush with death be enough for her to take control of her life?

Antipolis, Kaspar Jancis (Estonia)

In this playful stop-motion short, some people believe that the Earth is flat while others believe that another civilization lives under the Earths crust. Scientists, politicians, and miners all have their own closely held opinions on the matter and refuse any evidence to the contrary. Sounds familiar, huh? The shorts dark humor is enhanced by well-designed puppets and backgrounds that feel real enough to hit home the films relatable narrative.

The Miracle, Nienke Deutz (Belgium, Netherlands, France)

Nienke Deutz made a big splash on the festival circuit with her 2018 short Bloeistraat 11, which won won the Annecy Cristal for best animated short, among other honors. This time, as she did with her first film, Deutz pits translucent characters in front of vibrant hand-built backgrounds, mixing 2d and stop-motion techniques. This time, she tells the story of a single woman at a luxury resort where all the most enjoyable activities are reserved for couples and families.

World to Roam, Stephen Irwin (U.K.)

Irwin is a familiar face here at Cartoon Brew, and his latest film is as dark and disturbing as anything weve seen from him in the past. This time, Irwin tells the story of a nuclear family and how the infant child perceives its parents. The narrative is tender, but the execution stands in stark contrast with a grainy, dark filter and almost morbid character designs latching on to the audience and instilling a sense of dread and anxiety that doesnt let up.

Oneluv, Varya Yakovleva (Russia)

Yakovleva is a relative newcomer, but her debut short, Oneluv, is already impacting the festival circuit after winning the top prize at Animafest Zagreb. In the film, strangers visit a young couples home. Taking advantage of the hosts hospitality, the unexpected guests push the couple to do rash things, which destroys the established order and harmony within the family. The scribbly animation adds to the discomfort of the films narrative and becomes more frantic as the situation gets more out of hand.

Electra, Daria Kascheeva (Czech Republic, France, Slovakia)

Electra has loads of buzz coming off competition screenings at Cannes and Annecy and an upcoming competition screening in Toronto. The short is told from the first-person perspective of its titular protagonist, who looks back on her 10th birthday. Her memories become intertwined with dreams and imagination, represented in the films off-kilter stop-motion animation. Complicated parental relationships are alluded to, and while Electra may be an unreliable narrator regarding the facts of her youth, there is no doubt that her pain is authentic.

Eeva, Morten Tsinakov, Lucija Mrzljak (Estonia, Croatia)

Eeva premiered at Tallinn Black Nights in November last year and has featured at numerous major festivals and events since, winning prizes at Zagreb and Annecy. The 2d dark comedy takes place at a rainy funeral where its titular protagonist endures the saddest day of her life after suddenly becoming a widow. A drab color palette, simple, grim character designs, and relatable facial expressions help to enhance the films morose sense of humor.

A Crab in the Pool, Alexandra Myotte, Jean-Sebastien Hamel (Canada)

Sure to be one of the hometown favorites at this years festival, A Crab in the Pool is a coming-of-age story all about family. Zoe and her little brother Theo are left to fend for themselves in a run-down neighborhood. Like most younger siblings do, Theo looks up to Zoe, but like most older siblings, she just wants him out of her business. The animation is just weird enough to be a lot of fun without adversely affecting the grounded story of two siblings

Miserable Miracle, Ryo Orikasa (France, Canada, Japan)

Another hometown title, this short is an animated adaptation of the book Miserable Miracle by Henri Michaux (1956), written about his experiences with mescaline. The books lines of text fill the screen and begin to vibrate and morph, with individual letters breaking off and turning to stick figures as a narrator reads the authors original words.

Ikimono-san: Turtle, Atsushi Wada (Japan)
After managing to stay mostly out of the headlines for several months, Rick and Morty creator Justin Roiland was dragged back into the media spotlight this week when a detailed report alleging sexual assault, grooming, and providing alcohol to minors was published by NBC News.

Much of what can be found in the report had previously been posted online by individuals, but the this is the first time that those allegations have been publicly collected in one place and vetted by a third party.

NBC News interviewed 11 individuals who shared thousands of messages sent by Roiland between 2013-2022. Nine of the 11 said Roiland turned their exchanges sexual. Of those nine, three were just 16 years old when the conversations started. NBC News says that people interviewed for the piece also provided photos, videos, social media posts, emails, plane ticket receipts, and Uber records that corroborated their claims.

Seven of the individuals interviewed for the piece had previously posted their allegations against Roiland online, many around the time that felony domestic battery and false imprisonment charges against Roiland became widely known earlier this year. Those charges, stemming from an alleged 2020 incident, were eventually dropped by the district attorney due to a lack of evidence.

NBC News reached out to Roilands lawyer, Andrew Brettler, who referred to the claims of the interview subjects as false and defamatory.

Sexual Assault Allegations

In the articles most serious allegation, one of the women interviewed alleges that in March 2019, while Roiland was in Boston for a gaming convention, he forced her to perform oral sex on him against her will.

The two matched on Tinder, and Roiland invited the woman out for drinks. She told him that she was only 20 and couldnt legally purchase alcohol, but when they met up later, he bought her two mixed drinks. After the drinks, they went shopping, and Roiland bought her some clothes before the two headed to his hotel room.

She says that when they got to the hotel, Roiland asked her to perform oral sex on him, and she said no. According to her, he persisted anyway and pushed her head toward his crotch, at which point she stopped resisting.

The two stayed in intermittent contact over the next few months, and in June 2019 the woman confronted Roiland about the night they met. The NBC News article included the content of the text conversation, which reads:

Woman:

Yeah.. I just want to say that I would never want to say anything or hurt you or be part of that in any way but also the sexual stuff that happened with us was not handled by you in the best way and i just want you to take that into account in future dates, i know it was not black or white but verbal consent is important

Roiland:

S yeah, I didnt?? Im really sorry! F [] Thats not cool at all  jeeeesus That is not me whatsoever I literally didnt get consent??

Woman:

i mean you said after that you thought it turned me on to be forced, I dont think that was your exact word, into it and I told you that I wouldve preferred it didnt happen

Roiland:

Oh Jesus Christ Im really sorry

Woman:

No I was like not consenting I was like saying no and other things but not very forcefully

Roilands attorney didnt directly address the accusation of forced oral sex but did say that the woman asked Roiland to buy her clothes on the day they met and offered to sell him her pornographic videos several months later. He says the interaction left Roiland feeling duped and taken advantage of.

Accusations of Grooming

Three of the 11 people interviewed by NBC News provided proof that they were only 16 years old when Roiland first approached them and that, in each case, he was aware of their age.

Janna Waters, who is nonbinary, was one of the first people to publicly speak out about Roiland and post screenshots of their interactions with him. Waters says they were only 16 when Roiland approached them for the first time, and viewed Roiland as a mentor. Now, Waters believes Roiland was just grooming them.

When Waters was 17, Roiland offered to fly them to his house in L.A. That trip didnt happen after Waters reminded Roiland of their age. However, when Waters was 20, Roiland extended a new invitation to visit him at the site of his video game company Squanch Games in Raleigh, North Carolina, a few hours drive from Waters home. Waters says that at the event, Roiland pressured them to drink alcohol despite knowing they were only 20 and didnt want to. They say that after the party, Roiland invited two other women back to his rental and asked Waters to kiss one of them, but they declined and drove home.

Two of the anonymous interviewees shared text messages in which Roiland referred to them as jailbate. One of the women said that while she was still a minor, she told Roiland she wanted to be a video game streamer. In response, he wrote, I bet youd do good. Then once you turn 18 you just start cam whoring.
Re. Massive Peachland development strangled by highways requirements, says mayor (Castanet, Sept. 13)

I read on Castanet that Peachlands mayor wants to meet with a pair of provincial cabinet ministers to see if theres a way to resolve highway access issues that are holding up a major development. That would be New Monaco.

In 2014, (the developer) bought 125 acres of land between Highway 97 and Highway 97C on Peachlands northern boundary and subsequently received district approval for an impressive 2,000 unit development.

New Monaco bought the property knowing highway access and water would be expensive and problematic.

I am very much opposed to (Peachland Mayor Patrick Van Minsel approaching the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure on behalf of a private corporation.

The idea is proposals put forward by the municipality would be temporary, allowing the project to get underway. Full highway improvements would come as the project grows.

In other words, work on behalf of a capitalist to get their foot in the door, relax the rules and in time, request further favours. Shades of disaster capitalism and conflict of interest.

It looks like Van Minsel is working on behalf of New Monaco, instead of working to protect the interests of Peachlanders.

Is there enough water to supply this development, as well as the rest of Peachland? Back in 2014, thats what people started asking.

In 2023, we need new independent studies that account for drought, wildfire, deforestation, population, and climate change. Deforestation in our watershed is at a critical state and forests help clean the water and preserve moisture in the environment.

UBC Okanagan has studied our watershed and will soon present its academic reports.

I hope Van Minsel and his councillors request meetings with (Environment Minister) George Heyman, (Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Minister) Bowinn Ma, (Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation Minister) Josie Osborne, (Forests Minister) Bruce Ralston and (Water, Lands and Resource Stewardship Minister) Nathan Cullen while at the (upcoming) Union of B.C. Municipalities convention. All the ministries relate to water.

As a taxpayer interested in our future, I request they please work on these issues:

 Stop deforestation in our watershed

 Update the water master plan that informs water quality and quantity for the future

 Secure jurisdiction over activities in the watershed

 Use Rheanne Krochinskys UBC Okanagan masters thesis, which describes a model for a Peachland watershed board and request such a body to be developed. It should be a consensus-based group of representatives from all the groups concerned with activity in the watershed.

Judy Wyper
Photo: George Derby Centre Burnaby. The George Derby Centre in Burnaby.

A former finance manager who defrauded a Burnaby seniors care home during the COVID-19 pandemic will be allowed to serve his sentence in the community with house arrest, a curfew, 100 hours of community service and an order to pay back money he stole.

Nahaz Hirji, 34, pleaded guilty in April to two counts of fraud over $5,000 in relation to crimes against two past employers: Burnabys George Derby Care Society, which operates George Derby Centre, and CEFA Early Learning in Vancouver.

B.C. provincial court Judge Donna Senniw pointed out Hirji had been in a position trust at both organizations, and the money he took was only part of the impact.

When an individual is in a position of trust and abuses that trust, it impacts the organization afterwards, she said.

While Senniw concluded Hirjis moral culpability was high in relation to the crimes, she needed to bear in mind that he had no criminal record, showed remorse and was willing to repay the money.

She handed him a 16-month conditional sentence order and two years of probation.

He will be under house arrest for the first eight months and a 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew for last eight months.

He has also been ordered to complete 100 hours of community work service and to repay $7,000 to George Derby and $517.01 to CEFA.

During his sentence, he is banned from any employment or volunteering that involves handling money and from having any identification that isnt in his own name.

Good luck, Mr. Hirji, Senniw said after handing down her sentence. Im sure that you will be able to take your life on a completely different path than you were on in 2021.

But Hirjis legal troubles arent over yet.

He still faces a lawsuit from a third employer, Beyond Beige Interior Design Inc., who claims he defrauded them of more than $800,000 after leaving George Derby in April 2021.
Photo: The Canadian Press

The number of E. coli cases linked to an outbreak at several Calgary daycares continues to rise, but doctors say there are fewer patients in hospital with serious complications.

There were 310 lab-confirmed cases of the bacterial infection as of Wednesday, since the outbreak at 11 Calgary daycares was declared on Sept. 4.

Dr. Tania Principi, section chief of pediatric emergency medicine at Alberta Children's Hospital, says the increase in overall case numbers is mostly due to a delay in getting lab results.

She says there has been a decrease in the number of children with serious illness showing up at the emergency departments and 14 patients have been discharged from hospitals since the beginning of the outbreak.

Twenty-one children are still receiving care at Alberta Children's Hospital, 20 of whom have hemolytic uremic syndrome, a complication affecting the blood and kidneys.

Seven patients are on peritoneal dialysis, which is a way to remove waste products from the blood and a treatment for kidney failure.

"We're seeing that the patients on dialysis and even our HUS numbers have been fairly stable," Principi told reporters Wednesday afternoon.

"We're not seeing a significant rise in that, but we're continuing to do tests and follow this last group of patients."

There have been 18 E. coli cases from secondary transmissions, but Principi said all of those cases have been within households linked to the outbreak.

"If we're able to continue to contain that secondary spread, we should be through the largest hump now and see potentially some increase in case numbers ... as tests come back," she said.

"But, in terms of sick children and people, we should be at the tail end."
Photo: The Canadian Press The Future Electronics logo is shown in a handout. Montreal billionaire Robert Miller, who faces a class-action lawsuit alleging he paid underage girls for sex, is selling his company Future Electronics Inc. for more than $5 billion to a Taiwanese semiconductor distributor. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO

Montreal billionaire Robert Miller, who faces a class-action lawsuit alleging he paid underage girls for sex, is selling his company Future Electronics Inc. for more than $5 billion to a Taiwanese semiconductor distributor.

WT Microelectronics Co. says it has signed an agreement to acquire 100 per cent of the company's shares for US$3.8 billion  more than $5 billion Canadian  in an all-cash deal expected to close in the first half of 2024.

Future Electronics, which Quebec's business registry lists as wholly owned by Miller, is a global distributor of electronics components that employs 5,200 workers across 47 countries.

Co-founded by Miller in 1968, the Montreal-based corporation says it generated US$2.9 billion in revenue and US$184 million in profits in the first half of 2023.

A class-action lawsuit against Miller and Future Electronics saw around 30 women come forward this year alleging he gave them money and gifts in exchange for sex when they were underage.

Miller has denied all accusations, which have not been proven in court. In February he stepped down as chairman and CEO of Future Electronics amid the allegations.

The encounters allegedly took place at downtown Montreal hotels and two residences in the wealthy Westmount neighbourhood between 1992 and 2012.

The class-action lawsuit, filed in February by the Consumer Law Group, has yet to be authorized by a judge.
Photo: The Canadian Press Then Abbotsford Police Chief Bob Rich speaks in Abbotsford, B.C., on Tuesday November 7, 2017. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

Former Abbotsford police chief Bob Rich has been appointed to look into the release of a man from British Columbia's psychiatric hospital only to allegedly stab three people in Vancouver's Chinatown.

Premier David Eby says he has read the BC Review Board report on the accused and wants Rich to determine how a violent, psychotic person could be released into the community.

Sixty-four-year-old Blair Donnelly has been charged with three counts of aggravated assault and remains in custody after Sunday's attack at the Light Up Chinatown! festival.

Eby says the review board report clearly concluded the man was a significant risk and shouldn't be let out, but somehow between that decision and the attack in Chinatown, he was released from the facility.

The premier says he wants Rich to find out how that release was possible and if there are other people under similar circumstances who may also be on day passes from B.C.'s Forensic Psychiatric Hospital.

Donnelly was sent to the hospital after being found not criminally responsible on account of a mental disorder in the stabbing death of his 16-year-old daughter in 2006.
Breedon commits to being an Armed Forces-friendly employer

14 September 2023

UK-based Breedon has signed the Armed Forces Covenant as part of its focus on becoming a truly inclusive organisation. Since signing the covenant, the cement producer has been awarded the bronze award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, demonstrating the success of its commitment to being an Armed Forces-friendly employer.

Recognising the value that service leavers can bring to a business like Breedon, the group has put new policies in place to encourage former members of the armed forces to join the company. With colleagues across the business already serving as active members of the Armed Forces Reserves, Breedon is also introducing a new support programme to ensure such colleagues are able to give their full commitment to these roles. This will include an extra two-weeks paid leave, on top of the existing holiday allowance, so colleagues can attend annual training camps.

Colleagues are also encouraged to attend military recruitment activities on a regular basis, to share their experiences and promote life at Breedon while serving in the Reserves.

Supporting former members of our armed forces as they leave active duty is vital to ensuring their smooth transition into civilian life, and we are committed to playing our role across the business to provide employment opportunities, said Caroline Roberts, group people director at Breedon.

Published under
Chiles dispatches increase 1% in July

ICR Newsroom By 14 September 2023

Cement dispatches in Chile were up by 1.4 per cent YoY to 280,545t in July 2023 from 276,554t in July 2022, says the Chilean construction chamber, CChC.



However, in the January-July 2023 period, the countrys cement market contracted by 7.6 per cent YoY to 2.079Mt from 2.249Mt in the first seven months of 2022.

Published under
For two weeks America held its breath as fugitive Brazilian murderer Danelo Cavalcante dodged drones, helicopters and law enforcement from the FBI to Border Patrol, only to be cornered Wednesday by a police dog which subdued him with just a "minor bite wound."
BASF in Chattanooga donated $1,000 to five high schools in Chattanooga to support each schools STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) education curriculum. The donations help local students achieve their educational goals in these fields.

The five recipients of BASFs donation are: Central High, Hamilton County Virtual School, STEM School Chattanooga, Tyner Academy and Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts. At least one student from each of these schools participated in BASFs TECH Academy, a free, week-long education and workforce development program designed to introduce students to technical and craft careers through skills classes, workshops and industry tours. BASF hosts TECH Academy annually and works in collaboration with Chattanooga State Community College.

This donation will go towards STEAM activities in our Biology and Scientific Research classes," said Jim David, principal at STEM School Chattanooga. "The impact will allow students access to quality materials while fostering their critical thinking in scientific pursuits. We appreciate BASF for providing our students the opportunity to be part of TECH Academy. Allowing students real-world experiences with professionals in their field is an unmatched learning opportunity.

BASFs TECH Academy encourages students to explore and apply knowledge across various fields of study, including manufacturing, robotics, engineering and more. Through STEAM activities, students develop critical thinking, problem solving and creativity, all of which are essential skills in a rapidly developing world, said officials.

We believe in the power of education and how it can shape the future, said Brittany Davis, operations manager at BASF Chattanooga. Being able to nurture a students passion for innovation is one of the best things about the work we do through TECH Academy and community support. If our investment could give us just one future engineer, welder, process technician or leader, then we will have considered our job a success.

TECH Academy is part of BASFs STEAM education and workforce development efforts in North America to support industry growth and regional investment. Applications for next years TECH Academy will open in early 2024. For more information about the program, visit bit.ly/techacademycha2023. For more information on BASF in Tennessee, please visit www.basf.us/TN.




The Center for First-generation Student Success, an initiative of NASPA and The Suder Foundation, recently added all 13 community colleges in the Tennessee Board of Regents system to its First Scholars Network.With this commitment from the Tennessee Board of Regents, every two-year public institution of higher education in Tennessee has shown that first-generation student success is a priority, said Dr. Sarah E. Whitley, vice president with the Center for First-generation Student Success.Its clear that the Board of Regents and the community colleges leadership are working hard to ensure that all first-generation students will have access to what they need to earn their degree and take their place in the Tennessee workforce."Powered by the Center for First-generation Student Success, the First Scholars Network offers a national model for scaling holistic first-generation student success by engaging and empowering institutions of higher education to radically transform the first-generation student experience, advance academic and co-curricular outcomes and build more inclusive institutional structures," officials said.To date, 349 institutions of higher education have entered the Network, representing 49 states and the District of Columbia. The Center recently announced a commitment to serving over 700 institutions through the Network in the next five years.This is a systemwide effort to equip our two-year public institutions with the tools and resources they need to further first-generation student success, said Dr. Heidi Leming, vice chancellor for student success for the Tennessee Board of Regents. A large percentage of the more than 70,000 students enrolled in our states community colleges identify as first-generation students, and its our goal to give each one of these students the support they need to graduate and achieve their career goals.The 13 community colleges in the Tennessee Board of Regents system comprise all two-year public institutions in Tennessee, each with a specific service area. The system includes:? Chattanooga State Community College;? Cleveland State Community College;? Columbia State Community College;? Dyersburg State Community College;? Jackson State Community College;? Motlow State Community College;? Nashville State Community College;? Northeast State Community College;? Pellissippi State Community College;? Roane State Community College;? Southwest Tennessee Community College;? Volunteer State Community College; and? Walters State Community College.The impact of this partnership with the College System of Tennessee extends beyond Tennessee; it will serve as a model for other states to emulate moving forward, said Dr. Stephanie Bannister, assistant vice president at the Center for First-generation Student Success. This is an opportunity for us to partner on system-wide transformation, moving beyond individual institutions, and we are thrilled to get started.To learn more about the First Scholars Network and the Center for First-generation Student Success, visit firstgen.naspa.org.
Tickets and tables are on sale now for the Northside Neighborhood Houses 16th Annual Not-So-Silent Auction. This years event will be held at the Chattanooga Convention Center on Oct. 19 from 6-9 p.m.

Chaired by Chad and Meghan Goodman, the 2023 Not-So-Silent Auction is not your typical charity auction, as it brings a unique twist to charitable fundraising. We have been enjoying this event for years, said Mr. Goodman, Were so excited to serve the NNH by chairing it this time.

The event offers a variety of food and drinks, while offering a silent auction, a live auction, and the not-so-silent auction. During the not-so-silent portion, guests pay cash to stand up from their seats and have a chance to be called on by the auctioneers. The last person called before a mystery gong clashes wins the item or experience being auctioned off. This high energy, fun event is one that has been loved by locals for years, said officials.

Individual tickets, reserved tables, and V.I.P. tables are being offered at a discount through Friday. Individual tickets will increase from $100 to $125, reserved tables will increase from $1,000 to $1,500, and VIP tables will increase from $1,500 to $1,750 at that time. Tickets can be purchased online at nnhouse.org/events or by calling the NNH at 267-2217.

The event funds the Northside Neighborhood House, a non-profit agency that has been serving residents living in Northern Hamilton County for almost 100 years. From ensuring individuals are housed with working utilities to providing low cost necessities through their thrift stores, the NNH focuses on creating relationships and connecting individuals to supports that aid them in creating stability for themselves and their families. The Northside Neighborhood House also runs 10 CommUNITY School programs in Hamilton County Schools, which provides wrap-around support to meet the physical, social and emotional needs of the school community.
Constitution Week from Sept. 17-23 will be celebrated across America. The annual nationwide celebration was established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 after the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution petitioned Congress to set aside a week of observance dedicated to the Constitution.

The actual signing of the United States Constitution occurred on Sept. 17, 1787 at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pa., when 39 delegates to the Constitutional Convention, representing 12 states (all but Rhode Island who declined to send delegates), endorsed the Constitution created during the four-month-long convention.

Constitution Week is noted and celebrated through display posters in schools and libraries; table card reminders for businesses, libraries and restaurant displays; and the annual Bell Ringing ceremonies at the State Capitol in Nashville.
Secretary of State Tre Hargett announces the theme for the 2023 Civics Essay Contest for Tennessee students from pre-K to 12th-grade is Why Civility Matters.Encouraging students to become more civically engaged is important to cultivating our state's next generation of great Tennesseans, said Secretary Hargett. Now more than ever, Tennesseans are being inundated with negative messages and images. We need to work to break this cycle and prepare our youngest Tennesseans with an understanding of why civility matters and how to disagree without being disagreeable.Civics Essay Contest winners will receive a TNStars 529 College Savings Program scholarship and a trip to the State Capitol.First-place winners in each grade level will receive a $500 scholarship, with second and third-place winners receiving $250 and $100, respectively.All Tennessee students in public, private school or home school associations in grades pre-K to 12th-grade are encouraged to participate. Schools can choose up to two essays from each grade level to submit for the contest. To view contest rules and submit essays online through Friday, Dec. 15, visit sos.tn.gov/civics-essay-contest The Secretary of States office launched the Civics Essay Contest in 2016. Previous essay themes have included voting, citizenship, civic duty and why your vote matters.The Civics Essay Contest is part of Secretary Hargetts longstanding civics engagement program that aims to prepare students to be actively engaged citizens. The Secretary of State also offers lesson plans to help teachers incorporate civic engagement and citizenship into their curriculum. Tennessee teachers created the free lesson plans based on the Tennessee Blue Book.For more information about the Civics Essay Contest and the Secretary of States other civic engagement education efforts, visit sos.tn.gov/civics.
The Tennessee State Building Commission on Thursday approved moving ahead with a $260 million replacement project for Moccasin Bend hospital.

At the meeting in Nashville, several speakers said the rebuilt hospital should not be on historic Moccasin Bend.

State officials said an archeological survey will be performed at the bend site prior to proceeding.

Officials noted the hospital was built in the 1960s and all of its services need to be combined in a new building. The existing buildings at Moccasin Bend will be torn down.

The local legislative delegation and the county commission earlier endorsed keeping the hospital at Moccasin Bend, but some conservation groups have called for moving it and adding the 86 acres at the hospital to the National Archeological District.

A hospital employee said the Bend is an ideal location for a hospital because of the tranquil setting.

Opponents of keeping it on the Bend said there is no public transportation there and it only has a narrow, two-lane road. They said that should the hospital leave, it was promised to Native American tribes that the land would revert to a park. They said these tribes may file suit if the hospital was to be rebuilt there.

Jay Mills, a longtime advocate for the Moccasin Bend Park, said the site provides the highest elevation to see and interpret all the surrounding land and burial grounds.
'Taxi Driver' would've looked a bit different if this veteran star ended up in the starring role instead of Robert De Niro.

Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro famously teamed up to deliver the 1976 classic Taxi Driver. But before De Niro, Scorsese went to another actor for the iconic role of Travis Bickle.

Martin Scorsese almost cast another actor as Taxi Drivers Travic Bickle

Robert De Niro | Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

Taxi Driver is one of the many highly respected projects that De Niro starred in. The Scorsese film famously saw De Niro play a lonely taxi driver who turns to vigilantism after growing disgust with his city. Scorsese ended up being in the project thanks to the recommendation of the movies screenwriter Paul Schrader. The director wasnt yet the trusted and experienced veteran he is today, which is why assigning him to film Taxi Driver took a little convincing.

It took several years to get made, film producer Michael Phillips once told The Hollywood Reporter. One day Paul suggested we see a rough cut of [Scorseses] Mean Streets, and midway through, I really felt this is our guy. Johnny Boy [played by Robert De Niro] is our actor. So we made a proposal to Marty and Bobs agent. They both had to do it or neither. I mean it was silly, in retrospect.

The Raging Bull star and Scorsese both took to Taxi Driver immediately, and had no problem collaborating for the project.

I reacted very viscerally, almost mystically to it and its tone and the struggle of the character, Scorsese said.

However, before De Niro, there might have been another actor approached for the role. Veteran star Dustin Hoffman once claimed Scorsese saw him for Taxi Driver. But the directors personality discouraged Hoffman from doing the project.

I remember meeting Martin Scorsese. He had no script and I didnt even know who he was, Hoffman once recalled according to Irish Examiner. I hadnt seen any of his films and he talked a mile a minute telling me what the movie would be about. I was thinking, What is he talking about? I thought the guy was crazy! The film is Taxi Driver.

Robert De Niro drove cabs to prepare for Taxi Driver

De Niro indulged in a little bit of method acting to prepare for Taxi Driver. To help get into the mindset of Travis Bickle, De Niro drove a real cab through the streets of New York.

I was doing 1900 in Italy and Marty and I met at Cannes while he was there. We just met up there and worked on the script, De Niro once said according to Vulture. And I had been working on it over there before, because when I got to New York I had like two weeks before we were ready to shoot. So as soon as I got back, I started driving a cab, and I thought Id go for at least 10 days or something, but I drove as much as I could at that period before we had to start.

But De Niro was already a pretty recognizable face by then. So, according to Scorsese, it was only a matter of time before someone noticed the Oscar winner.

[Robert De Niro] told me that a guy got in the car and noticed that it was your name on the drivers license, Scorsese said. And he said, My God, he just won an Oscar. Is it that hard to get a job?

De Niro remembered quipping to the customer that he was out of work.

I said, Yeah, Im still on the unemployment line, he said.

Robert De Niro wanted to do a Taxi Driver sequel

Related How Reese Witherspoon Blew Her Chance to Work With Robert De Niro

De Niro once shared that he was interested in revisiting the world of Taxi Driver and Travis Bickle.The Joker actor and Taxi Drivers original team even went through the trouble of forging a story. But everyone involved simply couldnt find a way to truly crack a Taxi Driver sequel.

I said, why dont we write something? And I talked to Marty and Paul did take a shot at something, whether it was an outline or a script, I forget. But somehow we didnt feel it was right and it didnt take off, De Niro once told The Guardian. But Id like to see where Travis is today. There was something about the guy  all that rage and alienation, thats what the city can do to you. I mean Marty and I are from New York, and even we can feel alienated.
Craig Conover was taken aback by girlfriend Paige DeSorbos reaction to the thought of marriage and moving to Charleston. DeSorbo cried on Summer House when faced with the notion of moving and it doesnt appear as though the couple works out their long-distance dilemma on Southern Charm Season 9.

Conover is ready to settle down and put down roots in Charleston, South Carolina. But DeSorbo is from New York and while shes in love with Conover, shes far from ready to leave her friends and family. This has left the couple in limbo, which has Conover feeling pretty frustrated.

Craig Conover shares his frustrations on Southern Charm Season 9

Conover established his business Sewing Down South and made a home in Charleston. Bravo viewers have gotten a peek into the massive renovations hes made to his home, which he planned to share with DeSorbo. The problem is the couple isnt exactly on the same page.

Paige and I are in a tough spot, he shared in the Southern Charm Season 9 trailer. Weve been dating for over a year, were kind of in the same spot. So its getting a little frustrating.

Conover also wants the progress hes made with his home to match his relationship with DeSorbo. When me and Paige first started to date, the house was still in shambles, he shared. I think this house is finally to the level where I can start to look at the future and the future of me and Paiges relationship.

Can Craig and Paige move forward?

The couple is definitely at an impasse. I will be changing a lot more than you would be. I will be changing my whole life, DeSorbo said on Summer House (via Bravo). She added, I have no friends in Charleston, I dont know anyone, and my whole career is [in New York].

She expressed her position even further during the Summer House Season 7 reunion. I have only known living in the state of New York, Im very close to my parents, and the thought of being a plane ride away to my family when Im starting my own family was very scary to me  it still is very scary to me, DeSorbo said.

The problem is that she doesnt think Conover wants to move to New York either. I know Craig so well, and he  long term  wouldnt be happy in New York, and I wouldnt want to put that on him.

Paige thinks she and Craig Conover from Southern Charm handle long-distance very well

DeSorbo further punctuated her stance on moving to Charleston last winter. Long distance is definitely not an easy thing to do, but I will say, I think Craig and I handle it very well, DeSorbo told People. Obviously we will argue about certain things, but I love being with my friends during the summer. I love living in New York. I love going to the Hamptons on the weekends. Hes very supportive of that.

She added that she felt felt zero pressure to move down to Charleston right now.
Altmann Analytik GmbH & Co KG has acquired Technolab GmbH. With this decision, the independent specialist distributor Altmann Analytik expands its product and customer portfolio and strengthens its presence in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Founded in 1988, the company primarily serves customers in the food industry and is firmly anchored in western and northern Germany. One of Technolab's particular strengths is the fast and reliable delivery of nutrient media and agars, most of which are kept in stock at the modern warehouse in Schwerte. Altmann Analytik takes over the location as well as all employees of Technolab GmbH. Together with Tobias Thelen of Altmann Analytik, Raphael DeVol will take over the management of the company. The current managing director of Technolab GmbH, Philipp Enste, will continue to support the company until the end of the year.

Tobias Thelen, Managing Director of Altmann Analytik, commented on the takeover: "We are delighted to be gaining motivated colleagues in the experienced Technolab team, with whom we will be able to offer our customers an even broader product portfolio and shorter delivery times. Technolab will benefit from Altmann Analytik's online expertise. Together, we can offer our customers expert advice across the entire laboratory range and now supply them from two strategically located sites in Germany," explains Managing Director Tobias Thelen.
You have permission to edit this article.

Edit Close
The Brahan Seer, or Coinneach Odhar, was a Scottish predictor of the future. He was born Kenneth Mackenzie at the beginning of the seventeenth century near the Parish of Uig and Island of Lewis and worked as a farm laborer.

According to legend, Kenneth was gifted with the Second Sight. In Scotland, the Second Sight is known as the ability to see visions from the regular world and the spirit world.

It is said that his special sight was caused by his mother. One night, his mother had witnessed the ghost of a Danish princess heading back to her grave. She stopped the spirit from returning to her grave until the ghost carried out her wishes.

She requested that her son Kenneth be given the gift of the Second Sight. Only then did she allow the princess to go back to rest.

Later, Kenneth discovered a small stone with a hole in its center. When he looked through the hole, he could see images that foretold the future.

Many of the seers prophecies came true in the years after his death, and here are some of the most well-known ones.

Almost a hundred years before The Battle of Culloden occurred in 1745, Kenneth had predicted the event in the moorlands. The infamous battle had been fought in the very spot where he uttered the fateful words:

Oh! Drumossie, thy bleak moor shall, ere many generations have passed away, be stained with the best blood of the Highlands. Glad am I that I will not see the day, for it will be a fearful period; heads will be lopped off by the score, and no mercy shall be shown or quarter given on either side.

In another prediction referencing the Highland Clearances (17501860), he declared that the day would come when the people would be forced to flee their native country before an army of sheep.

Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox.
My sophomore year of high school, I met a girl at a party. We talked on the phone for a few weeks before finally setting a date to meet up again. She lived in the Lincoln Park projects in Huntsville, Alabama. I relied on her directions when I drove to pick her up, but I couldnt find her house. Before giving up, I decided to get out and walk, in case she spotted me.

That was a mistake. The locals noticed my car circling their block, and a group of young men came over. One of them asked, Who are you? His tone invited confrontation: You have stepped into my territory. Why are you here?

Looking around at the plastic bags blowing in the wind, clothes drying on flimsy lines, weeds amid patches of dirt, I could not see anything worth fighting over. But behind the interrogator stood three or four more young men, one with a gun. The weapon changed the stakes of the conversation. It was a question of life or death.

A rush of adrenaline began in my chest. I couldnt control my rapid heart rate, but I could control my expression, so I adopted a calm exterior.

I had been in this situation before and knew I would have to navigate it so they didnt feel trapped. I had to be strong but not threatening, certain but not disrespectful.

Who are you? The situation called for a simple statement of my allegiances: I am from Johnson High, and where I live is not your concern. But maybe because there was a gun involved, the question turned existential. I thought, Who am I, really? A boy grown into his adult body, now capable of wielding the same violence Id witnessed from my father? A kid determined to be the opposite of that man? My mothers hope?

At 16, I was a mix of competing visions and possibilities, with nothing to tie them together. What came next surprised even me.

I am a Christian, I responded.

If breath and sound could be chased down, I would have run after my words and dragged them back inside my mouth. But it was too late. I had spoken.

The boys were shocked. I could see it on their faces. Theyd wanted me to say I wasnt from there so they could be justified in resorting to violence. But to hear they were in the presence of a church kid must have thrown them off-balance. In response, they laughed and walked away.

My friends and I used to say, If you scared, go to churchmeaning faith was for the weak and the cowardly who found street life too much for them. But it wasnt fear of a violent outcome that had motivated my confession. Id had a moment of God-given clarity.

Article continues below

As much as any statement of belief, these moments reveal the role that God plays in our lives. My mom heard God in a hospital room on the way to surgery. Aunt Clarice turned to God when her T-cell counts dropped low. But I did not hear the voice of God in that street exchange. It was more like God erupted out of me from some hidden place I didnt know existed. For good or ill, I knew that my life was in some sense bound up with my Creator.

Two years later, I met with my pastor, Oscar Montgomery, to tell him Id been called to preach. When I walked into his office, I found him sitting at a large oak desk covered with books, papers, and an open King James Bible.

After I sat down, the words came tumbling out. I told him I knew about the blood and forgiveness central to Christianity, but I also felt called to talk about what came afterwith God as the pillar of fire, leading believers through the desert.

My ministry would be for people searching for hope among the rubble. I aimed to appeal to young Black boys and girls considering the same options given to me and carrying traumas like the ones Id experienced. Many of them had heard and rejected the churchs offer. I wanted to ask them to reconsider that rejection.

My pastor did not seem surprised, recalling how I came from a family of Black preachers. The McCaulleys and Bones tended toward binaries. We chose the church or the streets.

If I were you, I would try and talk God out of it, he said with a laugh. But I know that you wont. You have always been a determined kid. Ive watched you struggle with purpose most of your life. I trust that youve finally found it.

He explained that, in three months, I would have to give a trial sermon.

Make sure that you mention the birth, death, Resurrection, and return of Jesus, he said. Whatever else you get wrong, get Jesus right.

A few months later, I ascended into the pulpit of Union Hill Primitive Baptist Church with a six-page sermon, a King James Bible, and a handkerchief, in case I worked up a sweat. But it turned out I was not that type of preacher.

As my sermon wore on, I looked at the audience and saw them waiting for the shouted lines. Jaws dropped open to shout Amen, then closed again. People rose from their seats to clap, then thought better of it.

Article continues below

I didnt have the pauses for the Amens and Yes, Lords. Despite my extensive preparation, I was still an 18-year-old kid trying to wrestle the idea of God into words, my sermon filled more with questions than applause lines.

I asked myself: Is this what God requires of me, this slow death in front of friends and family?

My grand embarrassment of a sermon occurred on New Years Eve. In the Black church, we have a service called Watch Night, which recalls December 31, 1862, when the enslaved waited for the Emancipation Proclamation to go into effect on New Years Day, 1863.

In Huntsville, the congregations of several churches gather for a joint service of preaching and music that begins around 9 p.m. and ends around midnight.

As my time came to preach, I prayed as fervently as my teenage heart would allow that God would make me into a proper Black preacher. But five minutes in, my delivery was the same as it had always been. I couldnt quite capture the imagination of the people I loved, and they didnt understand me.

It took years for me to realize that I was not a Black preacher in the mode of my grandfather or the generations of Black men and women who preceded him. Essays were forming, but I did not yet know their contents. Books were struggling to get out, but they were obscured from me. The pastors could not see it, and neither could I.

Over time, I came to understand that I had a calling of a different sort: to try to put into words and on paper the varied experiences of God in the souls of Black folks. My main arena would not be the boisterous and sacred pulpit of the Black church, but the quiet office. The church had shaped my imagination, and that imagination would carry me into the world of literature and the arts. There, I would try to describe the beauty and travail of Black life in the South.

This excerpt was adapted from How Far to the Promised Land by Esau McCaulley. Copyright  2023 by Esau McCaulley. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
The ongoing attacks against the minority Kuki tribe by violent mobs in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur has brought attention to this mostly Christian people group. Since May, more than 180 people have been killed, hundreds of churches have been destroyed, and thousands have been displaced as the Hindu-majority Meitei people, who live in the lowlands, violently retaliated against the Kukis peaceful protests over efforts to give Meitei access to the hill land where they live.

The Kuki people in Manipur share ancestry with the Chin in Myanmar (also known as Burma) and the Mizo in Indias Mizoram state, southwest of Manipur. Due to their encounters with missionaries, nearly all Mizo and Kuki identify as Christians, along with 90 percent of Chin people.

In this Q&A explainer, we will explore the roots of the Chin-Kuki-Mizo people, the ongoing persecution and conflicts these groups face, how they encountered Christianity, and the ways Christianity has changed their society.

How are the Kuki, Chin, and Mizo people related?

They shared the same ancestors, practiced the same religion, and inhabited a swath of hill country in the borderland of modern-day India and Myanmar. In the 1890s, the British divided the land into Chin State in Burma, Mizoram and Manipur states in India, and the Chittagong Hill Tracts in Bangladesh.

Chin-Kuki-Mizo are a Mongol people, and today they speak related but distinct Tibeto-Burman languages. More than one million Chin live in Myanmar, one million Mizo live in Mizoram, half a million Kuki live in Manipur, and tens of thousands of Kuki live in Bangladesh. In addition, due to the ongoing fighting between the Myanmar army and the Chin people, hundreds of thousands of Chin have fled overseas, including 80,000 in the United States.

What kind of ethnic persecution do the Chin face?

When Burma gained its independence in 1948, ethnic minorities including the Chin, Kachin, and Shan were promised equality and self-determination. Yet after the military seized control of the government in 1962, they refused to respect the agreement, leading to ongoing fighting between Chin armed forces and the Burmese army.

After the 2021 military coup, the Chin joined in the armed resistance against the junta. The military attacked towns and villages across China State, burning down Thantlang, a hilltop town, home to 10,000 people. All but one of the 22 churches in the town have been destroyed.

 the Kuki?

The Kuki and Naga (another predominantly Christian tribe) live in the uplands surrounding the Imphal valley, where the Hindu-majority Meitei live. Before the British occupied Manipur, the kingdom of Manipur covered only that small valley, meaning the lowland Meitei never ruled the Kuki or the Naga. After the British left in 1947, Manipur became a part of India and, later in 1972, a state. Seeking their own separate state within India, however, the Kuki started an armed uprising in the 1980s.

Article continues below

The recent ethnic conflict started when a court ruled that the state government should respond to the Meiteis request for scheduled tribe status, which would give it seats in the parliament and state legislatures, affirmative action in education and employment, and property protections. Kukis protested this change, as it would dilute their own status and give the Meitei access to Kuki hill land. In response, violent mobs attacked people and ransacked tribal homes, churches, schools, and hospitals. More than 60,000 people have been displaced.

 the Mizo?

When the British annexed Mizoram in the 1890s, it was an independent country. Then, as India gained independence in 1947, Mizoram was administered as a part of the state of Assam, but the Mizo aspired to regain their independence. They began an armed uprising in 1966. In response to their rebellion, the Indian army attacked cities, towns, and villages across Mizoram, decimating and uprooting nearly all of the rural population. Laldenga, the leader of the uprising, was finally able to secure the formation of a separate Mizoram state in 1987.

What religion did the Chin-Kuki-Mizo people initially practice?

Historically they practiced animism, which required its adherents to appease evil spirits through costly animal sacrifices when people got sick. Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam never made it to their hilly country. However, Christian missionaries changed the religious landscape in the late 19th century.

How did Christianity reach the Mizo?

British Baptist missionaries James H. Lorrain and Frederick W. Savidge landed in the south of modern-day Mizoram in 1894 and proselytized the Mizo. They created a written script based on the Roman alphabet, introduced modern medicine, began mission schools, and initiated social services, including orphan care. They revolutionized the lives of the Mizo.

A few years later in 1897, Welsh Presbyterian missionaries also came and started evangelizing the Mizo in northern Mizoram. Today, virtually all Mizo are Christians, mostly Presbyterians and Baptists.

Article continues below

 the Kuki?

Missionary William Pettigrew left Scotland and landed in the Imphal valley of Manipur in 1894. While he was raised Anglican, he became a Baptist while in India and joined the American Baptist Foreign Mission Society. He worked with the Kuki in the north and the Naga until 1933 and played a pioneering role in literature, education, religion, and social services for the hill tribes. In 1908, Watkin R. Roberts, a Welsh Presbyterian missionary, started his mission work among the Kuki in the south. Early native Kuki Christians also evangelized their own people, and today nearly all Kuki are Christians, most of them Baptists.

 the Chin?

American Baptist missionaries Arthur and Laura Carson, together with believers from the Karen people group in Myanmar, arrived in the Chin Hills in 1899 and started evangelizing the Chin, who, like the Mizo and Kuki, were illiterate. More missionaries came in the following decades until the mid-1960s, when Burmese military expelled all missionaries from the country. Christians, who are mostly Baptists, now represent about 90 percent of the Chin population. More than half of them became Christians after the 1960s, meaning Chin Christians evangelized their people during and after the missionary period.

Who are some of the most well-known Christian Chin-Kuki-Mizo leaders?

Native church fathers, including Zairema, Simon Pau Khan En, and Tongkhojang Lunkim, made enormous contributions to the life and history of the church among the Chin-Kuki-Mizo.

The first Mizo to graduate college, Zairema (19172008) led the Young Mizo Association (YMA), the states largest NGO, which promotes Mizo culture, language, and history and helps the poor and vulnerable. He also worked on Bible translation, consulted the state government of Mizoram, served as the moderator of the Mizoram Presbyterian Church, and wrote numerous theology books in both Mizo and English. Zairema is remembered as the conscience of Mizo theology.

Simon Pau Khan En, 78, served as general secretary of the Chin Baptist Convention (CBC), general secretary of the Myanmar Baptist Convention (MBC), and president of the Baptist seminary, the Myanmar Institute of Theology (MIT). He is, however, best known for his academic and popular-level theological articles, which became the foundation for Burmese Christianity.

Tongkhojang Lunkim, who is believed to be 97, is the patriarch of the Kuki Baptist Church. A teacher, preacher, missionary, theologian, and conciliator, Lunkim founded Trulock Theological Seminary and helped translate the Bible into Kuki.

Article continues below

What attracted the Chin-Kuki-Mizo people to Christianity?

Factors influencing their religious conversion included theological similarities between their animistic beliefs and Christianity, such as underlying ideas of life after death, blood sacrifice, and the existence of a Supreme Being. Adopting Christianity also helped them preserve their distance from lowland neighbors who practiced Buddhism (Myanmar), Islam (Bangladesh), and Hinduism (India). Many of the hill people in the borderlands between China and Southeast Asiathe Akha, Kachin, Karen, Lahu, and Waalso became Christians for this reason. In addition, conversion to Christianity ended the practice of costly animal sacrifices.

How did becoming Christians change the Chin-Kuki-Mizo people?

Since they left animism and became Christians, the Chin-Kuki-Mizo have undergone remarkable changes. Once illiterate and impoverished, they now have their own written languages, schools, and seminaries. Some in the communities have gone on to pursue higher education.

This is largely due to the fact that early missionaries and Christian leaders translated the Bible and hymnals into their languages. Missionaries emphasized the importance of education to the Chin-Kuki-Mizo, so that they could understand the Bible and improve their quality of life. This has become a lasting legacy for the people today. Mizoram, for instance, maintains the second-highest literacy rate in India, and the Mizo play an outsized role in civil services across the country.

Christmas and New Year celebrations replaced old religious services, as modern medicine replaced traditional rituals. Christianity also allowed them to create their own religious organizations and network with the global church, thus ending their isolation. Religious organizations like the Baptist associations provided them with social spaces for annual meetings between representatives from Baptist churches all across the region. And Christianity also played an important part in nurturing the idea of ethnic unity among the various subtribes, who once waged tribal wars against each other.

Early missionaries werent perfectfor example, they urged locals to abandon elements of their culture, including dances, songs, and drums associated with their traditional religion. But Christianitys contributions since then have surpassed their mistakes. Today, Christianity has become intertwined with the Chin-Kuki-Mizo ethnic identity.

Article continues below

How have the Mizo people responded to the persecution of the Chin and Kuki?

More than 50,000 Chin and around 8,000 Kuki have sought refuge in Mizoram, where local churches, non-profits, and individuals embraced and assisted them. Mizo churches and communities also sent donationsmedicine, food, clothes, and moreto Lamka, the largest Kuki town in Manipur.

Prime minister Narendra Modi asked Zoramthanga, chief minister of Mizoram, to close the border to prevent Chin refugees from entering India. Yet he defied Modi, keeping the border open. To reduce the burdens of the Mizoram, diaspora Chin churches, families, and individuals in the West have sent millions of dollars to the Mizoram to help refugees there.

In the midst of this suffering, the ethnic, religious, and social ties between the Chin, Kuki, and Mizo remain strong.

Pum Za Mang, who was born in Thantlang, Chin State, is an associate professor of world Christianity at Myanmar Institute of Theology in Yangon and was a research scholar at Luther Seminary.

Editors note: The Zomi and Hmar people in India are also a part of Chin-Kuki-Mizo, yet distinct due to their languages. The Zomi have also been majorly impacted by the violence in Manipur.
Heather sits down with writer, speaker, and theologian Kaitlyn Schiess to discuss her latest book, The Ballot and the Bible: How Scripture Has Been Used and Abused in American Politics. Todays episode is part two of our three-part podclass on Disrupting American gods. Kaitlyn will explain the history of using the Bible as a prop in American politics, and shell also share her illuminating definition of Christian nationalism, a term we have heard a lot of in recent years.

In this episode, Heather also explores lighter subject matter with her best friend and co-blogger Scarlett Longstreet in this weeks Safe Space chat. This go-round, Heather and Scarlett debate the pros and cons of unfollowing people online.

Host Bio

Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including Ill See You Tomorrow and Its Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on Twitter @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Sign up for Heathers encouraging devotional email, which goes out every Friday night at 7 p.m. EST, at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links.

Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today

Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day

Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath

Producer: Loren Joseph

Associate Producer: Azurae Phelps

Mix Engineer: Alex Carter

Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper
For the past ten months, the He Gets Us Engaging Culture Series has advanced the dialogue around community engagement by laying out basic principles that are essential for the future health and growth of the church.

With insight from host Ed Stetzer and guests like Nona Jones, Albert Tate, David Kinnaman, and Max Lucado, this video series sheds light on how to share the gospel in our current momentand now each episode is available for free on the He Gets Us partners website.

Need more convincing? Here are the top five takeaways from the series:

1. Engaging culture looks like building bridges.

When Kevin Palau, President & CEO of the Luis Palau Association considers the needs of modern communities, he sees an opportunity for the church to move toward individuals who are unsure of, or even hostile toward, Christianity. But there are some important prerequisites for believers to bear in mind.

The good news is: I think its possible to build bridges if there is a good amount of humility, a lot of good question-asking that takes place, a lot of and serving and behaving well. Ive seen the ability to get into spiritual conversations and gospel conversations with those prerequisites, says Palau (Engaging Culture episode 1).

This bridge building may look like a church leader studying the values, concerns, and languages of the young people in their area. Christians might choose to participate in outreach events as a means of connecting with community groups they wouldnt otherwise engage. In other words: its not enough to want to reach otherswe must actively take opportunities to do so.

2. We need creative approaches to evangelism.

Door-to-door witnessing is out and digital discipleship is in. Reflecting on changes in outreach over the past decade, pastor Andy Stanley shares that his church has become more and more intentional about endearing our community. We want people in our community to know were here, to be glad were and to be better off because were here (Engaging Culture episode 2).

Access the entire series now.

Watch for free.

How might thinking similarly expand the possibilities for witnessing in your community? Acknowledging that many have valid complaints, fears, and wounds because of the church is a great place to start. From there, we can begin to minister in ways that refresh the churchs reputation and make a positive impact in the community.

3. Stories carry power.

Amidst all of the unique nuances of our present moment, stories continue to transform lives just as they did in prior generations. Creating connection and community, stories become a mirror, helping people better see and understand themselves.

Pastor and author Max Lucado encourages Christians to ask the question: What is so special about the Christian story? He goes on to say, Absolutely unique to our story is the person and power of Jesus Christ (Engaging Culture episode 4). So what stories should we tell? Bible stories, sure, but also stories from around the globe, personal testimonies, and our own experiences with grief, pain, and hope.

4. Relationships are irreplaceable.

Relationships are the most effective vehicle for the gospelthey are essential for evangelism. And establishing and building those connections isnt a thing of the past; small groups, service projects, and local outreach still help us stay connected to our local communities.

Consider encouraging your church members to build relationships where they are: workplaces, social settings, and childrens schools. Even digital spaces on social media offer opportunities to have meaningful dialogue that forms real friendships, tilling the ground for gospel conservations. Think water cooler conversations, says Ed Stetzer, dean of Talbot School of Theology at Biola University (Engaging Culture episode 1).

Where are the gathering places in your congregants everyday lives? Those are prime real estate for building relationships that reveal the love of Jesus.

5. We need hope.

The world is a broken place, and only the gospel offers true hope. We have answers to questions that so many are asking, but how can we share those answers in winsome ways that honor the humanity of each person we encounter? Author, speaker, and tech expert Nona Jones encourages us to remember the tremendous mercy we have been shown by our loving God. The foundation of grace is humility, says Jones. We often think that humility is thinking lowly of ourselves or degrading ourselves, and thats not it. Humility is about placing the full weight of our faith, the full weight of our identity, in Christ (Engaging Culture episode 3).

By remembering who we areand whose we arewe can both experience and extend the hope of Jesus.

Learn how to engage culture and share the gospel more effectively.

Challenges Facing Pastors

These lessons arent meant to make the role of the pastor more difficult. He Gets Us understands that church leaders face many challenges: they are often called upon to be experts on a wide range of topics from theology to social media. They carry the weight of congregational care and spiritual growth, and they must steward the finances of the church well. When emergencies arise or disaster strikes, theyre often the first call.

The Engaging Culture Series does not add to these challenges, but rather it helps the church rise to meet them. This series provides resources and insights that can help them better connect with their congregations and communities. In addition to these videos, He Gets Us offers a variety of free resources, including articles, small group guides, sermon ideas, and webinars and podcasts.
Christians protest plans to censure Spokane mayor for appearance at Sean Feucht prayer event

Several Christian residents in Spokane, Washington, protested plans by the city council Monday to censure or formally rebuke Spokane Mayor Nadine Woodward for attending a worship event hosted by conservative activist missionary Sean Feucht and receiving prayer from former state legislator-turned-pastor, Matt Shea last month.

Shea is the senior pastor of On Fire Ministries & Kingdom Christian Academy. He was kicked out of the state Republican caucus after an independent investigation found him guilty of domestic terrorism because of his involvement with the armed takeover at Oregons Malheur Wildlife Refuge in 2016, The Washington Post reported. Feucht, who is well-known for his Let Us Worship movement launched to combat ongoing worship restrictions during the COVID-19 lockdowns, is an avowed Christian nationalist who believes Christians should be ruling the nation and writing laws.

On Aug. 20, Woodward attended the Let Us Worship event in Spokane and received prayer from Shea about a minute after he declared that same-sex marriage and transgender issues have one answer, and His name is Jesus Christ, according to Range Media.

Lyle Dach, a businessman and a non-voting deacon of Spokane Valley Assembly Church, who opposes the plan to censure Woodward, said before the city council on Monday that he saw no hate at the prayer event, as was claimed by critics and Woodward's political rival in the mayoral campaign, Lisa Brown.

I'm going to ask you where the hate is because being at the concert, this is what I saw. And I want to kind of bring this to the public awareness here. I saw people ready to pray. I heard people crying out. I saw people who wanted answers for the many concerns they have today, Dach added in a recording of the meeting shared on YouTube.

I heard a pastor who the media hates call to action every believer to get past their political indifference and pray for our leaders like believers are called to do. I then heard the same pastor corporately pray for the fire victims and a mayor and other leaders on stage, he told the city council.

Some local religious leaders such as Mark Finney, pastor of Emmaus church in Spokane, were among Woodwards detractors, according to FaVs News.

Finney stated on Facebook that when community leaders publicly fraternize with those who espouse hatred, racism, and violence, it validates toxic ideologies and makes them seem normal to the watching world.

Dach noted, however, that he saw no hate or Christian nationalism at the Feucht event.

I'd like you to show me this Christian national behavior. I don't even know the definition of what that entails. Show me the racism. Show me the detriment this brought to our communities. Tell me how this doesn't heal a community in a positive way. Why are you condemning good? The ones who are politicizing the event are you guys, he told the council.

Part 1 of The Mayoral Prayer. pic.twitter.com/nVy9z83dJ7  Joseph (he/him) (@josephdpeterson) August 21, 2023

Rebecca Murakami, who is a member of Sheas church, told Range Media just before the meeting that she believes the planned censure of Woodward could be an effort to silence Christians.

If the city council wants to stop her from doing that, do they want to silence all Christians? she asked. What is the plan behind that? One thing leads to the next.

Woodward, who is running for re-election for mayor of Spokane in November, has repeatedly stated that she did not know Shea personally prior to the event. Though Shea insists that she knew he would be attending, Woodward maintains that she agreed to attend the event to pray for the victims of a wildfire that was still raging at the time.

I've never met Matt Shea before that time. I've covered the controversies regarding Matt Shea. I obviously knew who he was, but I had no idea why I was being introduced to him, Woodward, a former journalist, told KHQ in an interview on Friday.

I was never told that he was part of the event. I was never told that he was going to pray over me, that he would be on stage with me. I just thought he was there, along with 4,000 other members of the local faith community, along with dozens of other pastors from all different churches, all different denominations. And that, for some reason, he found out that I was going to be there, wanted to introduce himself and then walked away.

She explained that she also did not know Sean Feucht and that her primary reason for going to the Let Us Worship event was to support the community in prayer.

I wasn't going to walk away from my purpose of being there, to pray for families who are hurting in our community, she said.

I didn't know who that (Sean Feucht) was. I mean, I don't follow [the] white nationalist scene. ... I didn't even know what a Christian nationalist was. I've never even heard that term before. So I didn't know who Sean Feucht was. I didn't know that Matt Shea was connected to him, Woodward added. I get invited to pray at a lot of different prayer services. I meet with a lot of people. As the mayor of Spokane, I represent everybody. I represent people who voted for me, I represent people who didn't vote for me. I represent people who agree with me and people who don't agree with me.

Shea refuted Woodward's claims in an Aug. 21 post on X: "@IdahoTribune This is an annual event planned months ago to worship Jesus. https://letusworship.us It wasn't for "fire victims." She was invited and she accepted BEFORE the fires started on Friday. However, we of course wanted to pray last night for all those who have lost everything and be there for them and also pray for our leaders. Praying for leaders, especially during a crisis, isn't political it is Biblical. She is the one that politicized what everyone knows was a worship event. We are praying for Nadine."
Michigan township can't prevent Catholic group from building Stations of the Cross prayer trail: court rules

A federal appellate court has ruled that a Michigan township cannot prevent a Catholic group from building a Stations of the Cross trail on land it owns.

In a decision released Monday, the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit sided with Catholic Healthcare International, Inc. as it seeks to put a Stations of the Cross trail and other religious displays on 40 wooded acres in Genoa Township gifted to the organization by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Lansing. Catholic Healthcare International is a Wildwood, Missouri-based organization seeking to advance the cause of Catholic healthcare by creating a hospital and medical school fully aligned with Catholic teaching.

The case dates back to July 2020, when Genoa Township informed the business that it would treat the Stations of the Cross trail as a church and, therefore, would require special land use and site plan approval pursuant to the Genoa Township Zoning Ordinance.

While Catholic Healthcare International requested that the Township please allow us to do the very minor things we are planning now which will not involve development of the property or building or paving, the government entity continued to insist that the organization obtain a special permit.

When Catholic Healthcare International constructed the trail anyway, Genoa Township ordered its removal. Although Catholic Healthcare International submitted a special land-use application seeking to build a 6,000-square-foot chapel and a driveway to go with the prayer trail, the Genoa Township Planning Board initially recommended approval of the application before revising its decision because it was not consistent with the jurisdictions master plan and once again ordered the removal of the Stations of the Cross trail.

Genoa Townships actions prompted Catholic Healthcare, Inc. to file a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan in June 2021, alleging that the zoning ordinance violated the U.S. Constitution, the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act as well as the Michigan Constitution. In December 2022, the district court denied Catholic Healthcares request for a preliminary injunction allowing it to restore its Stations of the Cross trail.

The Sixth Circuit reversed the lower courts decision, ordering the prompt entry of a preliminary injunction allowing plaintiffs to restore the Stations of the Cross, the stone altar, and the stone mural to their prayer trail.

American Freedom Law Center Co-Founder and Senior Counsel Robert Muise, who represented Catholic Healthcare International in its litigation against Genoa Township, praised the ruling in a statement: This was an important victory for religious freedom. We have been fighting with the Township and its attorneys for nearly three years on what should be basic and fundamental principles of law. Finally, the Sixth Circuit weighed in and vindicated our clients fundamental right to religious liberty.

While this is an important victory, the fact that it has taken this long to get where we are in this case is a sad indictment of where we are today as a nation, he added. Unfortunately, we have to fight tooth and nail for what should be basic and fundamental rights. But as this case shows, AFLC is up to the task.

Catholic Healthcare International took to its Facebook page to react favorably to the latest developments in the litigation: Today, we praise our Lord. It is the beginning of the restoration of the Prayer Campus which is the Foundation of Prayer for the St. Pio Hospital, medical school, and Terri Schiavo Unit.

By Court order, we are now allowed to gather to pray and return the Pray, Hope & Dont Worry Altar Table, the Our Lady of Grace Mural Wall, and the Stations of the Cross to our 40 wooded acres, the organization continued. Then we head to federal court for the permanent right to worship on our campus as we are called  and then? The St. Pio Hospital, Medical School and Terri Schiavo unit will be assured! It has been a painful nearly three years that slowed the complete renewal of healthcare in the USA and the world, but today we are overjoyed and thankful.

As outlined in a document available on its website, the Stations of the Cross trail and the religious symbols constitute just part of Catholic Healthcare Internationals plans for its 40-acre site in Michigan. It also hopes to build a hospital modeled after an existing Catholic hospital in Italy that will be designed to serve as a beacon of light in what the organization describes as a secularized culture which continues to slip further each year from its Christian foundation.

In addition to the Catholic hospital, the campus will include a faithful Catholic medical school designed to teach the next generation of physicians how to practice medicine in a way that upholds their Catholic faith. The campus will also feature a Medical Saints Trail containing beautiful original marble statues of saints who served their lives in a healthcare ministry and another trail telling the life stories of saints who persevered great struggles in life.

The aforementioned parts of the campus will comprise Phase 1 of the project while Phase 2 will include the creation of the Terri Schiavo Home for the Brian Injured and the Padre Pio School for the Relief of Suffering, School of Osteopathic Medicine, identified as a collaboration with a faithful Catholic university.
Missouri pastor who called autism a demon resigns from school board after backlash

A Missouri pastor who recently told his congregation that autism is a demon that can be cast out by Christians and pointed to many examples of this recorded online, has resigned as a member of the board of the Stoutland School District after backlash over his comments.

An official at the school districts office in Stoutland confirmed with The Christian Post on Thursday that Pastor Rick Morrow of Beulah Church in Richland submitted his resignation Tuesday, more than two years ahead of 2026 when his term on the board was expected to expire.

Morrows comments stem from a Bible study session at his church on Sept. 6, where he was teaching about deliverance.

Shortly after his session began, Morrow spoke about autism which refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication according to Autism Speaks.

I know a minister who has seen lots of kids that are autistic, that he cast that demon out, and they were healed. And then he had to pray and their brain was rewired, and they were fixed, Morrow told his congregation, noting that they could go online and see lots of examples of it.

Indeed, a cursory search on YouTube presented multiple testimony videos of individuals claiming they were delivered from autism, which affects about 1 in 36 children in the United States.

If its not demonic, then we have to say God made them that way, Morrow continued in his comments. Like thats the only other explanation. Why does my kid have autism? Well, either the devil has attacked them, hes brought this infirmity upon them, hes got them where he wants them, and/or God just doesnt like them very much and He made them that way.

Well, my God doesnt make junk. God doesnt make mess ups. God doesnt make people that way. So lets quit being nice and putting a Band-Aid on stuff and giving it medicine, he added. How about you just cast the demon out?

Morrows comments quickly began making the rounds on social media, sparking a barrage of backlash from members of the Stoutland community and beyond, like Jessica Loveland who started a change.org petition to have the pastor removed from the school board hours before his resignation on Sept. 12.

It is disheartening to know that someone like Rick Morrow holds a position of power within our school district while harboring such discriminatory views towards individuals with disabilities, Loveland wrote. Morrow's comments have not only caused immense distress among parents like myself but also pose a significant threat to the inclusivity and acceptance we strive to foster within our community. It is crucial that we take action now to ensure that our children are provided with an environment free from prejudice and discrimination.

Those comments came from Loveland despite Morrow providing further explanation of his comments in his sermon on Sunday. He maintained that his comments were misinterpreted.

I made a statement Wednesday night talking about demons, and we're going to keep talking about them on Wednesday night. ... I said, let's talk about something demonic, and I said autism. And then I said, God doesn't make junk. Those of you who know me know that I love people and I would never say that people are junk, he said.

It has been perceived that I'm evil, that I am full of the devil, that I am possessed myself because I said kids with autism are junk. That's what has been perceived. What was intended was autism is junk. People that have it, are loved by God, and loved by me, he explained.

Morrow said he has made attempts to clarify his comments with some of the mob mentality currently attacking his church for his statement on autism but lamented, I cant get anywhere.

I have been told that autism is a blessing from God. I have been told that I'm the evil one. But you know what? If I was to stand up here and say cancer is junk, people would agree. If I were to stand up here and say addiction is junk, people would agree. But for some reason, when I shine the light on this subject, it has been blown so far out of proportion, Morrow continued.

The Missouri pastor apologized to anyone who has been hurt by the mischaracterization of his comments but maintained his conviction that autism is a demonic affliction.

For those of you who are having to deal with this thing, I apologize. I am not apologizing, that I want to see people set free from things. I'm not apologizing. I want to see people healed, he said. I'm apologizing if you've had to deal with the misperception of my intention.
Tensions run high as more Christians are accused of blasphemy in Pakistan

A Christian couple in Pakistans Punjab Province have been charged with blasphemy, raising alarm about the misuse of the nations contentious religious law, less than a month after mob attacks targeted over 80 Christian homes and 19 churches in the same province.

Shaukat Masih, 33, and his wife Kiran, 28, were arrested in Lahores Chaudhry Colony on Saturday.

Muhammad Tamoor filed a complaint, stating he found Quranic pages scattered near the couples home. The police registered the case under Section 295-B of Pakistans penal code, which prescribes life imprisonment for the accused.

The couple is in police custody, and tension is escalating in the area, said the Centre for Legal Aid, Assistance and Settlement, or CLAAS, in a statement to The Christian Post.

The couples three children, ages 13, 9 and 7, are now in the care of another Christian family, according to Morning Star News. The 13-year-old has rickets, and the 9-year-old is mentally challenged.

Nasir Jameel, an advocate from the Living Water Society, said the children are extremely distressed due to their parents absence. The lawyer is expected to file a petition for the couples release on bail on Thursday.

Jameel said the couple was not present during the alleged incident.

An officer from the North Cantt police station was quoted as saying that the arrest was made to prevent potential violent protests by Muslims.

Nasir Saeed, director of CLAAS-UK, expressed serious concerns about the ongoing misuse of Pakistans blasphemy law against Christians. He termed these incidents as part of a gradual genocide of Christians in Pakistan and emphasized the need for immediate action.

The government has set up Messaq centers to handle such cases, but their effectiveness is questionable, Saeed said, stressing the need for stricter legal measures against those propagating hate. He called for comprehensive investigations to prevent future attacks.

In a related development, the Supreme Court recently ordered a senior official to submit a copy of an agreement with the Islamic extremist political party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, which was allegedly behind the Aug. 16 violence in Jaranwala city, to monitor blasphemy in Christian settlements.

Thousands of Muslims led violent riots, burning churches and vandalizing homes, in a Christian colony in the city of Jaranwala on Aug. 16. The unrest was ignited by claims that pages were torn from a Quran and blasphemous content was scribbled on them.

Police arrived at the scene about 10 hours later, residents and community leaders told Reuters at the time. The police denied that, saying they prevented even worse damage.

Usman Anwar, the police chief in Punjab province, was quoted as saying that the lack of intervention was aimed at avoiding loss of lives by not escalating tension.

Religion-fueled violence is not new to Pakistan.

In the past, blasphemy allegations have led to mobs killing accused individuals, including a Sri Lankan man in 2019 and a group burning down about 60 homes, resulting in six deaths in Punjab in 2009.

Rights groups have long criticized Pakistans blasphemy laws, citing their misuse for personal gains. According to the Centre for Social Justice, over 2,000 people have been accused since 1987, with at least 88 killed on such allegations.

The ban against blasphemy, which carries no provision to punish a false accuser or a false witness, was expanded in the 1980s under military dictator General Zia-ul-Haq. According to The New York Times, the British government enacted the original laws in the late 19th century colonial era to keep people of different faiths from fighting each other.

In recent years, there have been several high-profile cases that have brought international attention to the issue.

In 2011, the governor of Pakistans Punjab province, Salman Taseer, was assassinated by his bodyguard for speaking out against the blasphemy laws.

That same year, Asia Bibi, a Christian mother of five, was sentenced to death for alleged blasphemy, sparking international outrage, leading to her acquittal in 2018 after spending eight years on death row.

Her acquittal drew the ire of radical extremist groups, as many protested in the streets and threatened to kill the Supreme Court justices responsible for setting her free.

Pakistan's ranking has risen to No. 7 on Open Doors 2023 World Watch List of the most challenging places to live as a Christian. This is an increase from the eighth position the previous year, indicating a worsening situation for Christians in the country.
Students leaving Texas public schools in record numbers as more families opt for homeschooling Post-pandemic trends mirror nationwide surge in homeschooling

Students are withdrawing from Texas public schools in record numbers as more families are opting to homeschool in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Lone Star state saw nearly 30,000 withdrawals from public school to homeschool for students in grades 7-12 during the 2021-22 school year, according to data released by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) in an open records request to the Texas Home School Coalition (THSC).

In fact, the 29,765 withdrawals last year were only topped during the peak numbers reached under the statewide COVID-19 emergency declaration, when there were 29,845 withdrawals.

Prior to the pandemic, between 20,000 and 25,000 students in grades 7-12 withdrew to homeschool each year.

Since 2020, however, that number has reached nearly 30,000 and appears to be staying there, according to Jeremy Newman, VP of policy and engagement for THSC.

Newman told The Christian Post there are two reasons behind this trend.

First, demographically, due to falling birth rates, the TEA is anticipating that enrollment statewide will trend negative for the next decade, he said. Second, students are leaving the public schools in record numbers, accelerating the enrollment decline even more.

This [acceleration] picked up dramatically with Covid and, as demonstrated by the new homeschool withdrawal numbers, they haven't slowed down.

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, homeschooling in Texas nearly tripled between the spring of 2020 and the fall of 2020, rising from 4.5% to 12.3%  a jump that would translate into approximately 750,000 homeschool students in Texas in the fall of 2020, more than all private school students and charter school students combined.

And its not just white families: homeschooling is also surging in popularity among minorities, with roughly 41% of homeschool families identifying as non-white/non-Hispanic, according to figures from the National Home Education Research Institute.

Newman said parents are citing three main factors in their decision to withdraw their kids from the public school system.

We continue to see concern about safety, parental involvement, and the school environment as the most important reasons that parents cite when they [choose] to homeschool, he said.

Theres also an economic incentive for taxpayers: current estimates place the percentage of homeschool students in Texas at between 8 and 10 percent, or the equivalent of between 500,000 and 620,000 students.

At those numbers, homeschool families in Texas save the state more than 7 billion dollars per year, according to THSC.

Its not clear whether this trend held up through the 2022-23 school year since that data will not be available until 2024.

The surge in homeschooling in Texas largely follows nationwide trends as homeschooling saw a 30% increase in 2021-22, even as public school enrollment fell by more than 1.2 million students within the first two years of the pandemic, according to a study released earlier this year.

The study from the nonprofit research organization Urban Institute finds that private school enrollment increased by 4.3% between the fall of 2019 and the fall of 2021. Data collected between the 2019-20 school year and the 2021-22 school year showed that homeschool enrollment rose by 30%.

Steven F. Duvall, director of research for the Home School Legal Defense Association, told The Christian Post that the findings are consistent with other observations regarding COVID-19's influence on homeschooling.

"We believe that homeschooling is a wonderful way to educate a child and that many hundreds of thousands of families made this same discovery during the pandemic," Duvall told CP.
'Surprised by Oxford' film highlights how C.S. Lewis, Romantic poets helped bring a skeptic to faith

For those who love C.S. Lewis, Carolyn Webers conversion story sounds familiar: Like the Chronicles of Narnia author, she was a skeptical Oxford scholar who didnt see faith as compatible with intellect  until she discovered Christ as the only solution to the inconsolable longing every human experience.

I was very skeptical myself; [Lewis] calls himself the most reluctant convert, kicking and screaming, the award-winning author told The Christian Post. I really recognized and resonated with that twofold. On one hand, I came from a background of really assuming that intellectualism cant go hand in hand with faith, and also emotionally from a background in which my earthly father was not dependable, so there was no way I was going to trust in an eternal one.

There were a lot of metaphysical questions as well as very pragmatic ones. But as I was introduced to the faith and to Christians, and I read the Bible for myself, I was able to sit with those questions and ideas instead of being so distracted: What am I longing for? And ultimately the answer to the question, Who do you say I am?

It was Lewis' exploration of joy, longing, and the quest for truth, outlined in his book Surprised by Joy, that deeply resonated with Weber, who today serves as a professor at New College Franklin in Franklin, Tennessee. Her memoir, Surprised by Oxford the title a nod to Lewis book  recounts how, as a young agnostic, she came to faith during her first year at Oxford while studying the Romantic poets and authors.

I love Lewis, but at the time, I was like many other people in North America. I only knew Louis through the Narnia Chronicles, maybe as a child. I had no idea he wrote on the breadth of topics he did, and so I really wanted to evoke the title Surprised by Joy. Its actually a line from a Wordsworth poem, and I was a Romanticist. I love the notion of longing and how all joy reminds... I was really struck by that as I read more of Lewis, and I wanted to evoke that title in my own memoir by being Surprised by Oxford, going there to study, and never anticipating becoming a Christian.

Webers memoir is now a major motion picture of the same name starring Rose Reid, Ruairi OConnor, Phyllis Logan (Downton Abbey), Simon Callow and Mark Williams ("Father Brown"). Written and directed by Ryan Whitaker, the film was shot on location in Oxford and features some of its most notable sites, including Blackwells Bookshop and the University Church of St. Mary.

The drama opens with the troubled home life of Caro Drake. She sees books and intellect as a way to escape from the turbulence at home and eventually makes her way to Oxford, where she seeks to earn her Ph.D. But her troubles seem to follow her as she grapples with bitterness from her upbringing and struggles with questions of the faith, both challenged and supported by her colleagues along the way.

It was really beautiful and profound and powerful, Weber said of watching her story play out on the big screen. I'm very grateful because, at this point, there are other people in my life in that film who have since come to become Christians themselves. So that was really powerful. Its emotional, very surreal. It's also an adaptation, so some things are truncated or changed and there's some artistic or poetic license, but overall, it was really personally powerful and something I never would have anticipated happening.

It was at Oxford that Weber met her now-husband, Kent, who was the first person to introduce her to the Gospel. The film captures their love story and how Kent pursued Weber despite her initial reluctance, walking alongside her in her pursuit of the truth.

I think we assume that people know the Gospel in North America, but we don't, she said. I was a perfect example of someone who's gone through public school and never cracked open a Bible, who has their notion of Jesus through the media or television. Kent articulated clearly the Gospel, and that just sat with me. It was actually very inconvenient. But we were friends for a long time, and one thing that spoke to me was his kindness, his humility, the fact that he was open to questions; he asked me a lot of questions.

Weber, who has since served as faculty at Oxford University, Seattle University, University of San Francisco, Westmont College, Brescia University College and Heritage College and Seminary, said Romantic literature and the teachings of C.S. Lewis continue to influence her and point her to the glory of God.

I love literature; I love teaching literature because I feel it's a conduit; it's an open doorway. It's like a Narnia wardrobe, into other worlds, to be able to actually examine other worlds so we can know our own better, she said. I think that's also why Jesus told stories  stories allow us to compassionately enter other people's ideas and morals, but it also encourages us to think through who we are in the greater story of things  I haven't read anything that hasn't directed me to the glory of God.

She credited Lewis' enduring appeal to his accessible and intimate writing style, describing him as a delightful companion in the pages.

"He's able to move from all these different topics ... but you always feel like you're having a cup of tea with him," Weber added.

Reflecting on rising skepticism among young people  something she is familiar with  Weber echoed Lewis' sentiment that many avoid faith because they don't perceive it as relevant.

I would just encourage, particularly students, our God's not a fragile God, she said. Any question is fine from within the faith or without it, from outside or inside. All those questions are important; all of them bring us closer to Him. Every thought we have can bring us closer or further, and even the ones that are filled with doubt or we're walking through what we might think would be skepticism can draw us closer."

Think about what matters, the great questions that really matter, because everything else is empty," she added. "And it can sound trite to say that but it is, and it really does release us to live. Especially in North America, were hesitant to give up the good for the best because we associate good with comfort or distraction. But, knowing that God is with us, Emmanuel, makes all the difference.

Through her story, whether accessed through her book or the film, Weber said she hopes people are challenged to sit with the larger questions, with the things that matter between themselves and their souls.

I hope that it would have a gentle effect of snow falling and that silence that deep snow has, where you have a chance to sit with yourself and think of the answer that you would have to, Who am I? and, Who am I to you? as Jesus poses to us, and to really give that some thought, some space in your heart and in your mind, as opposed to just dismissing it or being afraid of it. Perfect love drives out fear, and to extend that love to yourself as well.

Though family-friendly, Surprised by Oxford is not a faith-based film; it includes several misuses of the Lords name and some profanity. The film will be in theaters for a two-night theatrical event on Sept. 27 and Oct 1.

Watch the exclusive "behind the story" below:
Dear Christians, never preach to be understood

Winston Churchill was the no-nonsense Prime Minister of England during the Second World War. He insisted that those who fail to learn from history are doomed to relive it. Whether its learning hard life lessons in high school, a careless word or two that causes extreme fallout in a job or relationship, or even a world war  history can be our greatest teacher.

For example, history informs us that our founding fathers rebelled against England to secure the freedom to worship God. Not freedom from worship, but the freedom to worship.

Fast forward to the modern era, where the courts have pushed God away and ruled Him out of public life, insisting on separation of church and state. But the separation clause was to keep the government out of church business and not to silence the church from weighing in on government policies. Today, the separation of church and state is real. But because our society thrives on talking about and conflating issues without truly understanding the history, its origins, or what can be learned from past issues, most people do not have any idea what removing God from our lives truly means.

Im afraid our nation is on a trajectory like the nation of Israel. Todays United States does not trust in God. As Larry Norman, one of the pioneers of Christian rock, once wrote, your money says, In God We Trust, but its against the law to pray in school.

At one time, the United States was the king of the jungle, respected for its strength and moral muscle. We stood for protecting human freedoms and pushing against nations that oppressed others. We were the lion that everyone respected, and nobody challenged. But now the lion is sick. The roar has been reduced to a whimper. Now the other animals of the forest, sensing our weakness, see it as an opportunity to challenge that lion. Weve lost our will to bite back, even for righteous reasons.

With this weakened morality has come changing values. The biblical Christian who believes the Bible is true was once considered the apotheosis of honor in American culture. Now that same person is public enemy number one. Christians are maligned as inflexible, narrow-minded, bigoted, and intolerant. Just as King Ahab regarded the prophet Elijah as the troubler of Israel (1 Kings 18:17), Christians are seen as the troublers of America. We are the ones, they insist, that are the roadblock to homosexual and transgender freedom.

But theyve mistaken the disease for the cure. The Gospel isnt an impediment; its the cure. The good news about Jesus Christ is the only thing that will change a person's life. And only when you change a person's heart will you have the opportunity to change a community, a state, and even a country. This is why when Ahab accused Elijah of being the problem in Israel, he retorted, I have not troubled Israel, but you and your fathers house have. Do not be ashamed of the Gospel and do not hold back. We are the cure. We have the cure.

Someone once said, Never preach to be understood. Preach so that it's impossible to be misunderstood. Thats the best way to live the Christian life in a morally and spiritually dark world. Be clear. Be bold. Be firm. Be so vibrant that no one misunderstands. Faith, belief in God, and sharing that message with the world isnt the problem. Its the treatment.

So many Christians are nervous about standing firm in their faith. Theyre afraid of the blowback they might receive if they shout their faith from the mountaintops. One day, when theyre with one group of Christian friends, they lean toward God. But on another day, when theyre with a more hostile crowd, they lean toward them. Tossed by the winds of opinion and popularity, they vacillate rather than stand firm.

At some point in life, everyone must decide which side of history to be on. As we learn from our past, we are poised to have a better future. Do not let history repeat itself for evil. Like Churchill, and like Elijah the prophet, insist on living and speaking for truth.
HE has a beautiful family of four kids, a loving wife and a career that continues to soar in which he has transformed himself into a superstar.

But, for Jah Prayzah, this blissful family life could not have been possible had it not been for the efforts of his brother Nigel.

He was the one who brought Rufaro to him, convinced him she was someone he could consider as a person to marry, and start a family with, long before the musician had struck gold.

Today, he has nothing but praise for his brother.

The man who grew up in Uzumba Maramba Pfungwe before his dreams brought him to Harare, on a mission to become a successful musician, says he cant ask for more.

Largely self-taught and passionate about his artistic calling, Jah Prayzah has amassed almost everything on offer on the Zimbabwean showbiz landscape.

And, he believes a lot of it also has to do with the stable family environment at his home, thanks largely to the part played by his lovely wife Rufaro.

He reflected on his journey during The Phoenix Podcast with Kenneth Sharpe aired on ZTN.

Jah Prayah answered several hard-hitting questions with ease.

These questions ranged from early childhood, musical calling, early days in showbiz, the musical breakthrough to his current success.

At 36, he still has a long way to go in his career and, if recent releases are anything to go by, the best is still to come from him.

LOVE LIFE

She (Rufaro) used to work with my brother Nigel. He is the one who introduced me to her and told me that she was wife material then.

He advised me not to mess around with her and, from that day, I knew she was mine.

We now have four kids together. We are happily married.

Jah Prayzah also travelled with a big team to pay lobola as part of the African tradition.

We travelled with more than 10 relatives and friends to pay lobola for my wife.

It was a big occasion for both families and we are still together and happily married.

UPBRINGING

While distortions have over the years been peddled about his upbringing, Jah Prayzah cleared the air on the issue.

I was born on the 4th of July in 1987 in a family of five. I lost two brothers.

My father was a headmaster, he is retired now and quite old.

My mother used to work for the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council.

Unlike most boys growing up in rural areas, who struggled to make ends meet, it was a different case for Jah Prayzah.

Mine is a different case because they used to spoil me in our family. I am the last born and tallest in the family.

CALLING

Jah Prayzah believes he made the right decision by choosing music as a career.

He, however, conceded it was hard for him to convince his parents before they later blessed his journey.

I think it (music) was something that was always in me from day one. I started singing when I was around five-years-old.

I used to compose songs for the school choir, singing in church and church events because my mum loved preaching.

We used to go to church together and I would read her Bible. The church had about 100 or so people. I still sing gospel.

HARARE JOURNEY

Upon completing high school, Jah Prayzah set his sights on music.

When I came to Harare and stayed in Budiriro, I had no access to the studio.

I wanted to record my music and hear it being played on the radio.

I then got access to the studio and recorded my music. I realised I could do music and pursued it.

Unlike most people who get distracted when they settle in a big city, Jah Prayzah remained focused.

I have always prayed to be a star and everything that I have achieved now is a surprise to me.

My main goal, when I came to Harare, was to have access to record and have my music played on the radio. For me, that was enough.

What I got was more than enough from what I asked for, from what I prayed for. Being able to release hits, collaborate with international artists, being able to represent big companies in Zimbabwe was more than enough.

God has given me more than what I asked for.

HUMILITY

A role model and international ambassador in his own right, Jah Prayzah says he will always stick to his parents advice.

My parents always remind me that no matter how big you become, always remember to remain humble.

I have always remained humble.

He, however, admitted that he was yet to instil the same in his children but it remains in the plans.

I havent started yet but its something that I will follow, he says.

ADVICE

As a true influencer, Jah Prayzah gave aspiring artists sound advice to achieve their dreams.

You should remain focused and passionate about what you dream of in life.

We also need to be united if we all want to achieve success because there is more power in unity.

We also need to work hard to achieve our dreams and nothing is impossible if we remain focused, he said.

WISH LIST

Im looking forward to performing at big festivals, especially in Germany and the rest of Europe. I want my music to reach that level and become popular in the rest of the world.

I am also working on new stuff and it will be purely biased towards Mbira.

I can sing anything but the new album will have a mbira bias.

He urged fellow artists to embrace technology and sell their music online. H Metro
The crisis for Armenian Christians isn't stopping

In a little-known part of the globe, the worlds oldest Christian community is literally being starved to death. The Nagorno-Karabakh region has long been a place of religious and ethnic strife. In 2020, a significant and deadly escalation of a long-standing dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan over this region occurred. As a result, both sides suffered significant casualties and territorial changes.

Though the region is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, it has a predominantly ethnic Armenian population. The two countries have warred over this territory since the early 20th century, but it became particularly intense after the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

Russia brokered a ceasefire agreement between the two parties in November 2020 and deployed Russian peacekeeping troops to monitor the situation and maintain the ceasefire. However, it is no surprise that while Russia is now engrossed in its battle with Ukraine, its troops are no longer monitoring this region. Meanwhile, the Azeri government uses this as an opportunity to finish what it started back in 2020. Beginning in July 2023, Azerbaijan has blockaded the only road to the region known as the Lanchin corridor, causing dwindling food, medicine, and electricity.

Turkey, a NATO member with longings for increased global influence, supports its longtime ally Azerbaijan on the battlefield or the negotiating table against the Armenians. Turkey and Azerbaijan have strong ethnic and cultural ties, including their religious affiliation with Islam. The two nations also have strong economic ties, including oil and gas exports, as well as large-scale military training and arms sales together. In solidarity with Azerbaijan, Turkey has no diplomatic relations with Armenia and sealed its border with the nation in 1993. Historically, relations between Armenia and Turkey have remained hostile due to the mass killings of Armenians by Ottoman Turks over a century ago. Historians mark those events as the first genocide of the 20th century, which Turkey denies to this day.

Although Russia and Armenia do not share a border, Armenia is a close ally of Russia, including hosting a large Russian military base. With a garrison of about 3,000 soldiers, the base is characterized as a critical barricade against a possible Turkish invasion. But with Russia largely distracted by its turmoil with Ukraine, it leaves this embattled community of Armenian Christians at the mercy of its aggressive Muslim neighbors. Ultimately, the goal appears to be eradicating this ancient Christian population like many other Muslim-majority countries have done throughout the Middle East.

As we commemorate the loss and devastation we suffered here in the US as the result of 9-11, the crisis in Nagarno-Karabakh reminds us of the far-reaching consequences it had on the rest of the world as well. The Arab Christian communities have a rich history that dates back to the early days of Christianity. They have been integral to the Middle East's social fabric for centuries. With roots tracing back to the birthplace of Christianity, these communities have played significant roles in various fields, including culture, education, and politics. However, in the aftermath of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, these communities have faced unprecedented challenges and destruction.

It started with the invasion of Iraq in 2003 and spread throughout the world in what we called the Arab Spring. US policymakers had this lofty notion that these countries would easily evolve into bastions of freedom if only the West could liberate them from the dictators who oppressed their people. Though the idea sounded appealing, it was naive and impossible to impose or create by external forces what would be seen as occupiers and invaders.

Revolutions in Libya, Egypt, and Tunisia, as well as uprisings in Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon, led to guerilla warfare on the Arab street. The breakdown of law and order created an environment where extremist groups flourished, leading to violence against religious minorities, including Arab Christians. Islamic extremist networks rose in prominence and gained control in many parts of the world. Naturally, the civil war in these countries quickly turned religious, and Arab Christians often found themselves caught in the crossfire. As suspicions grew, Arab Christians faced discrimination and persecution, with their religious identity becoming a source of suspicion.

Fearing for their safety, a significant number of Arab Christians chose to leave their ancestral homelands in search of safety and opportunities elsewhere. This mass migration has led to the dwindling of once-vibrant Christian communities in the Middle East. Churches and religious sites have not been spared either. Throughout the region, countless churches have been damaged or destroyed due to conflict, leaving Arab Christians without places of worship and symbols of their faith. In addition to the physical threats they face, Arab Christian communities have also suffered economically. The breakdown of stability in their regions has disrupted their livelihoods, leading to unemployment and poverty.

The destruction of Christian communities like Nagaro Karabakh is a tragedy with profound consequences. These communities, which have preserved their faith and heritage for centuries, are now facing extinction in many parts of Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. The events of September 11, 2001, and their aftermath have played a pivotal role in exacerbating these challenges, from increasing religious tensions to regional instability and mass migration.

Unfortunately, the U.S. and our European allies have done little to protect their fledging communities. The U.N. makes statements calling for the end of the blockade or criticizing the attacks, but no real effort is made to threaten the aggressors with sanctions or other diplomatic consequences. Efforts must be made at both the international and local levels to protect and support these vulnerable communities. This includes addressing the root causes of instability, promoting religious tolerance, and providing assistance to those who have been displaced. Preserving Arab Christian communities is not only a matter of cultural and religious heritage but is a testament to the importance of coexistence in a world that is increasingly less tolerant and diverse.
Best Buy fires whistleblower after leaks of manager saying Christian displays not OK, but LGBT training is

A former Best Buy employee says hes suing the electronics chain, claiming he was fired for expressing his religious views over a company-mandated LGBT training.

Enis Sujak, a Serbian immigrant who now lives in Florida, says he was terminated from his job working as a member of Best Buys Geek Squad repairs unit in Jacksonville on Sept. 1 after speaking out against a mandatory training video on LGBT history.

Sujak, who came to the United States in 2002, said in a statement on Give Send Go that he was told to watch the video rather than tend to clients waiting on my assistance.

My ability to help and serve customers with electronic repairs and the sexual orientation of my colleagues have nothing in common, he wrote.

In fact, sexuality has no place in the workplace, and forcing me to subject myself to conduct that I believe constitutes a sin while taking me away from serving my former employers customers is simply unacceptable  in fact, its unlawful.

The allegations, first reported by James OKeefe, formerly of Project Veritas and founder of O'Keefe Media Group (OMG), involve Sujak and his Geek Squad manager, Mike Hirsch, who was recorded telling Sujak that comparing Christianity to LGBT ideology was inaccurate.

When Sujak asked Hirsch why Best Buy would not allow Christian displays in stores while the company requires employees to attend LGBT training, Hirsch replied, Theyre not the same.

You are choosing to believe in Christianity or Muslim or whatever. You choose that ... they [LGBT-identified people] dont choose that, Hirsch added.

In August, Sujak shared an internal Best Buy poster with resources for employees of various groups  including Latinx, disABILITIES and Pride  and noted white males were conspicuously absent from the poster.

Inclusion, except if youre a white male. Im glad I spoke out against this. Thank you @JamesOKeefeIII and @JamesOKeefeIII for sharing my story. #boycottbestbuy@libsoftiktokpic.twitter.com/6drsNKJqvI  Enis Sujak (@CocoWarfare) August 11, 2023





A Best Buy memo from 2022 confirmed details about the companys partnership with the McKinsey Accelerator Program on human resources training curriculum, which appeared to exclude white employees. The document announced Best Buy had expanded its McKinsey program from one course for Black professionals to providing customized courses for those who also identify as Hispanic/Latino or Asian.

Our main focus through the collaboration of the cohorts is to create a space where everyone feels valued and included, said Georgia Vahoua, senior manager of strategic initiatives, inclusion and diversity in the statement. In addition to the core leadership and management skills that are learned, each cohort also provides a strong networking opportunity for its members that lasts long after the program ends.

Following his termination, Sujak said he hired an attorney and plans on filing a civil lawsuit against Best Buy. As of Sept. 14, Sujak has raised over $10,000 for his legal fees.

I will no longer be silenced, and I will not be standing down, he wrote. In no way have I ever argued that anyone who differs in religion, gender, or sex should be treated differently; rather, all I wanted was to be treated the same as them, and have my beliefs respected equally.
David Platt says churches must invest more in missions to evangelize 3 billion unreached worldwide

Megachurch Pastor David Platt stressed the importance of mission work among communities that have never heard the Gospel, especially the over 3 billion worldwide who are unreached.

Platt spoke about the need for missions during the Together for the Gospel Conference that was held last week at the Kentucky International Convention Center in Louisville.

He opened his remarks by reading multiple biblical passages, including Matthew 28:18-20, which is commonly known as the Great Commission, in which Jesus tells His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.

Platt also read Romans 15:18-25, in which Paul of Tarsus wrote about how it has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known and that, in keeping with this, he was planning to travel to Spain to introduce the population to the Gospel.

After reading the passages and giving a prayer, Platt discussed a major problem, specifically that over 3 billion people are currently unreached by the Gospel, calling it a Romans 15 Spain-like ignorance of the Name and Gospel of Jesus.

Platt clarified that the term unreached did not simply mean being an unbeliever, but rather it meant that it was a community where the people had no access to the Gospel.

People are just as lost in Kentucky and the places where most all of us live as they are in Yemen, explained Platt. The difference is there are churches in Kentucky and all the places where most of us live. Gospel-preaching churches.

There are more Christians in this room right now than in all of Yemen. And Yemen has 30 million people ... which means that if youre one of those 30 million Yemenis, suffering and starving right now in the middle of civil war, the likelihood is you will be born, you will live, and you will die without ever even meeting a Christian or hearing the Gospel.

As evidence for his statistic, Platt referenced an evangelical research group known as the Joshua Project, which focuses on spreading awareness of the ethnic groups of the world with the smallest number of Christians.

Platt went on to argue that he believed too many churches were practically ignoring the people and places most unreached by the Gospel.

The Church, our churches, are practically ignoring the three billion people who need the Gospel most, he continued, noting that while American Christians give billions of dollars to missions, approximately 99% of missions giving goes to people and places in the world that already have access to the Gospel.

Is there work to be on those places? Absolutely there is  but open your eyes, brothers and sisters. In the name of missions, we are actually ignoring the Great Commission. The specific command Jesus has given us to make disciples among all the peoples of the world.

Platt stressed the need for churches to commit more resources to missions that go to unreached populations, declaring that the number of unreached people is higher today than ever before and will continue to increase until the church decides to change.

If we are not living and dying to make disciples of unreached nations, then we are disobeying the Great Commission and disregarding the goal of God, he declared.

Platt gave some caveats at this point, noting that while not everyone was meant to be a missionary to the unreached, all of us, every person in whom the Spirit of God dwells has been commissioned by God to live and give and work and pray and die with zeal to see disciples made and churches multiplied and the glory of God enjoyed and exalted among all the nations.

Platts remarks were part of the biennial T4G conference. The theme for this years conference was Last Word, as organizers said that this would be the final T4G gathering.

Mark Dever, pastor of Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., and one of the conference organizers, wrote in the official Conference Guide that it was a tremendous privilege to steward these gatherings for the last 16 years.

And we are excited to welcome you one more time to the mix of messages, singing, praying, panels, books, and fellowship that have marked these gatherings, wrote Dever.

Thanks for making this investment in the unity of the Spirit by uniting together in edification based around the truth. May God continue to make it bear fruit to his glory.

In addition to Platt, other speakers for the final conference included Ligon Duncan, chancellor and CEO of Reformed Theological Seminary; John Piper, author and pastor who oversees the theology website DesiringGod.org; Afshin Ziafat, the pastor of Providence Church in Frisco, Texas; and Alistair Begg, senior pastor at Parkside Church in Cleveland, Ohio, among others.
Christian doctor found not guilty of serious misconduct for praying with patient

A Christian doctor who shared his faith with a vulnerable patient has been cleared of serious misconduct by a medical tribunal.

The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service concluded, however, that Dr. Richard Scott "overstepped the boundaries" when he prayed with the patient.

Scott saw the 19-year-old man at the Bethesda Medical Centre in Margate, Kent, England, on Aug. 25, 2022.

According to the BBC, the patient has a history of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and was suffering from poor mental health at the time of his appointment.

During the consultation, Scott is alleged to have talked about his faith and clasped the man's hand in prayer before giving him a Bible.

Scott was brought before the tribunal after the patient's mother complained to NHS England.

The doctor, who has practiced since 1983, told the tribunal that he engaged in a conversation about faith after receiving the patient's consent.

The patient said that he felt "uneasy" when the doctor allegedly suggested he "reconnect" with God.

The tribunal concluded that although Scott received consent to embark on the conversation, he "then overstepped the boundaries."

It added, "Dr. Scott's actions did not cross the high threshold required to be considered serious misconduct."

Scott has been investigated in the past for offering to pray with patients and in 2012 received a warning letter from the General Medical Council (GMC).

The tribunal is considering whether Scott should receive a second warning.

Originally published at Christian Today India
Harvard prof. calls for ban on homeschooling, responses emerge

A Harvard Law School professor is calling for a presumptive ban on homeschooling, arguing that it poses harmful risks to children.

In an article titled "The Risks of Homeschooling" featured in the latest edition of Harvard magazine, Harvard Law School professor Elizabeth Bartholet stressed in an interview that children have a right to a "meaningful education" and that the state is obligated to intervene to protect them from abuse, which is sometimes interwoven within homeschool environments. Bartholet is also the faculty director of the Law Schools Child Advocacy Program.

Bartholet cites as an example of this abuse the case of Tara Westover, whose story is captured in a memoir called Educated and recounts how she was raised by survivalists in Idaho and was never sent to a school and received no formal education, despite learning how to read. Westover spent her youth working in her father's scrap business where bodily injuries were common and her older brother abused her. Under the current legal regime in most of the United States, Bartholet says, this is what can happen. She does not believe Westover's case is an outlier.

"The issue is, do we think that parents should have 24/7, essentially authoritarian control over their children from ages zero to 18?" the professor inquires.

"I think thats dangerous. I think its always dangerous to put powerful people in charge of the powerless, and to give the powerful ones total authority.

Requiring children to attend schools outside of the home for several hours each day, she maintains, does not significantly undermine parental influence on a childs views and ideas.



The article notes that many Americans  possibly as many as 90 percent by some estimates  who opt for homeschool are driven by traditional Christian beliefs and a desire to remove their kids from mainstream culture.

In an email to The Christian Post Monday, Katy Faust, founder of the children's rights organization Them Before Us, noted that the Bartholet interview poses a question not only about homeschool versus public school, but a much more fundamental question, specifically To whom do children belong?

"By arguing parents should have to 'prove their case' if they want to 'opt out of schools,' Bartholets answer to that question is clearly, 'children don't belong to parents, they belong to the State,'" Faust explained.

But the reverse is true, she continued, because it supports the child's fundamental right to be known and loved by the two people responsible for their existence.

"Its also in a childs best interest to belong to the adults who are the most connected to and protective of them  their own parents. In addition, unlike teachers and school administrators, parents are the most permanent adults in a childs life. They dont cease to be connected to children when striking over contracts, transferring districts, when they retire or when a child moves from fourth to fifth grade. The permanent nature of the parent-child relationship means parents are the adults most invested in childrens long-term success. Thats why parents, not the government, are the primary educators of their children," she said.

"Thus, its the schools which must 'prove their case' to parents if they want to 'opt in' to educating our children. Children dont belong to the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. They belong to us, their parents.

"That out of touch elites fail to grasp these simple, self-evident truths should make us even more weary to trust them with control over our childrens education."

Bartholet will be speaking at a summit in June featuring a slate of speakers, all of whom are reportedly steadfastly opposed to homeschooling, according to the Home School Legal Defense Association.

The image featured alongside the recent article is a house that has prison bars over a window with a young girl trapped inside while other children play outside. The structure of the prison-like homeschool in the image is comprised of books, one of which is the Bible.

Bartholet elaborates in the interview that some of these parents are "extreme religious ideologues" who question science and are in favor of white supremacy and female subservience.

From the beginning of compulsory education in this country, we have thought of the government as having some right to educate children so that they become active, productive participants in the larger society, Bartholet said.

But its also important that children grow up exposed to community values, social values, democratic values, ideas about nondiscrimination and tolerance of other peoples viewpoints.

The Harvard magazine article comes amid the worldwide coronavirus pandemic where school systems have closed to prevent further spread of the disease. As a result of the shutdown, kids are being educated at home and some have speculated that homeschooling will increase after the pandemic ends.

The article has inspired notable responses criticizing its underlying philosophy on forums like Medium and Facebook from accomplished Harvard graduates, who were themselves homeschooled and defended their upbringings.

In a Monday episode of his broadcast called The Briefing, Al Mohler, president of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, commented on the Harvard magazine piece, noting the ideological aims of the Common School Movement in the United States, particularly under the influence of figures such as John Dewey in the early 20th century. That movement came as an effort to at least partly, Dewey argued, remove children from the religious and sectarian prejudices of their parents by putting them in a common school that would develop a common culture, Mohler explained. Dewey was one of the founders of the American Humanist Association.

"The schools would become a socializing agent and of course there was an ideological component to this as well," he continued.

"[T]hose who have been trying to bring about an absolute revolution in Western societies have found that it is the indomitable strength of the natural family that is the greatest obstacle. And if you're trying to reshape society, you have to aim yourself at the young. You want to gain as much time and influence amongst the young as possible and thus you can see why those who've been trying to push for a more, they would style it, progressivist agenda in the United States have seen the public schools as the great ally and you'll understand why they've been so successful in reshaping the public schools into incubators for this kind of ideological experiment."

Mohler believes that the ideological aims of Bartholet and her like-minded compatriots to restrict and undermine homeschooling will eventually be extended to distinctly Christian schools in pursuit of an elite-defined secularist utopian vision.

"We need to understand that in this context, the modern American context, it is going to take all of our conviction to keep Christian schools Christian, any of them," he said.
Silver lining in the dark cloud': Closure of public schools creates challenges, opportunities

A year into the coronavirus pandemic, many public schools in the United States remain closed for in-person instruction. While some experts assail the prolonged widespread closure of public schools for causing students to experience declines in mental health and academic performance, others see a blessing in disguise that will empower alternative forms of education.

When the coronavirus pandemic was declared in March 2020, schools around the world ceased holding in-person instruction. Many school districts transitioned to virtual learning, where students would meet with their teachers via digital platforms such as Zoom. The widespread closure of public schools continued in most cases for the remainder of the 2019-'20 school year.

When the 2020-'21 school year began, many school districts in the U.S. continued to conduct classes entirely virtually or embraced a "hybrid" model where students attend classes in-person for part of the week while distance learning the rest of the week. While only a small number of school districts offered full, in-person learning for all students at the beginning of the school year, that number has expanded as the year progresses.

The extended closure of public schools in the U.S. has had negative effects on American students. Still, it might have opened up other opportunities for education in the long term, according to experts who spoke with The Christian Post.

Education Week has kept track of the reopening statuses of member districts in the Council of the Great City Schools. This collection of school districts, featuring some of the largest school systems in the country and one in Canada, contains more than 8.2 million students. It accounts for 15% of the total public school enrollment nationwide.

While 56 of the 75 districts included in the Council of the Great City Schools currently offer some type of in-person instruction, a significant number of them have not offered widescale in-person learning for any part of the school year, which is well into its second semester.

Portland Public Schools, the largest school district in Oregon, has not opened for in-person learning this year. The district will implement a hybrid option for students in kindergarten through fifth grade in early April and a hybrid option will begin for older students later that month.

Other districts that have yet to hold in-person learning this school year but will offer it in some form before the conclusion of the academic year include Sacramento City Unified School District in California, Jefferson County Public Schools in Louisville, Kentucky, Kansas City Public Schools in Missouri, and Long Beach Unified School District in California.

Richmond Public Schools, one of the largest school districts in Virginia, will remain completely virtual for the duration of the second semester. School districts in Fresno, Oakland and Santa Ana, California, have yet to open for widescale in-person learning this school year. But they have opened classrooms for select groups of students, such as those enrolled in classes for students in which English is a second language and special education programs.

Four people who shared their perspectives on the consequences of the widespread closure of public schools include a senior official with a conservative-leaning think-tank, the author of a book detailing her experience educating her children during the coronavirus pandemic, the president of a coalition of Christian schools and universities, and the author of a book urging parents to pull their children out of public education.

Consequences of widespread public school closures

According to Hadley Manning, the policy director for the Independent Women's Forum, who has extensively studied the consequences of school closings, the widespread closure of public schools "has exacerbated some existing inequalities in our educational system."

In an interview, Manning said that while many families have the "means and resources to put together a homeschooling pod, hire a private tutor, put the children in private school or to make other arrangements," students who come from families who lack the aforementioned means and resources "have been working essentially on their own at home through virtual learning, which the data would suggest is no replacement for in-person schooling."

David Dockery, the president of the recently formed International Alliance for Christian Education, echoed Manning's concerns.

"I think students from strong families, particularly  where both parents are educated  there will be strong efforts to ensure that those students are taken care of and almost a homeschooling approach provided, he said.

"But for so many families ... both parents working, both are busy, not able to provide the care and instruction needed for the students who are missing that from their teachers, I think we don't know the impact of that at this time, but it's certainly a concern for all of us.

Dockery, the chancellor of Trinity International University in Illinois, said he's concerned for students in primary school, saying that in-person instruction for elementary grade students is vitally important.

Emily Greene, the author of School, Disrupted: Rediscovering the Joy of Learning in a Pandemic-Stricken World, who researches and writes about education, creativity, the neuroscience of learning, agreed with Dockery.

"It doesn't take an advanced degree to realize that [the] format of [online] learning is not how young children learn, she said.

Manning expressed concern for "children who have essentially lost a year of education because their school system has been closed and they haven't had access to good alternatives. She warned that "those children may face a real education deficit."

"I think that would be ... a totally reasonable expectation to see the education gap widening between children who are advanced and who continued to advance during the pandemic and children who probably have seen some backsliding."

"It's pretty common knowledge that over the summer months, when schools are typically closed, you see some sort of regression educationally among students who are out of school for the summer, but this is like a summer that has lasted for 12 months, she continued.

"One of the biggest failures with virtual learning is that you can't make kids show up," Manning remarked. "For example, in Boston, only half of the students showed up for online instruction on any given day."

"The question of school closure is much bigger than an academic question," she said. "It's a question about what's best for children broadly speaking, not just in terms of their progress on reading, writing and arithmetic, but their social and emotional development, their mental health, and their ability to have a safe place to be during the day."

Manning also spoke about the mental health impacts of the widespread school closures and the accompanying social isolation.

After citing reports about "higher numbers of youth reporting depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms" and suicide attempts, Manning maintained that it was hard to get concrete mental health statistics because the U.S. has a "delayed reporting system" when it comes to suicide rates.

In Japan, which Manning said "has one of the fastest data capturing systems in the world when it comes to suicide rates," previous data from the fall showed an 80% increase in the suicide rates among women.

"There's an impact certainly on the mental health of our young people, our children and also I would say on parents because there is that additional layer of stress that comes with trying to educate children at home while also continuing to provide financially for the family, she contends.

Many families depend on two incomes, and so that math doesn't work out. Two full-time jobs plus the job of overseeing virtual education at home is too much for many working parents," Manning said.

Another unintended consequence of keeping schools closed for in-person learning, Manning asserted, relates to the reporting of child abuse because "the school system is a very important part of our child abuse reporting mechanism in this country."

"Aside from parents, family members, pediatricians, teachers and school counselors are some of the most important people in preventing child abuse or stopping child abuse, Manning stressed. And so we've lost that with the widespread closure of public schools."

Opportunities presented by widespread public school closures

Lt. Col. Ray Moore is the chairman of the board for publicschoolexit.com, a website designed to provide resources for parents seeking to withdraw their children from public schools.

Moore, an Army Reserve chaplain and an outspoken critic of contemporary public education, sees a silver lining in public schools' widespread closure and the accompanying adaptation of virtual learning.

With many parents at home with their children, they have the opportunity to listen to what they are learning at school.

"The public school curriculum is coming into their living rooms, and some of it is just terrible, borderline pornography, he asserted. They teach sex education in ways that are not compatible with Christian teaching. And the parents are seeing on the computer in their living rooms, and they're just horrified."

Moore said that in some districts, public schools are trying to get parents to sign a document saying that they will not look at the curriculum that their children are getting in their living room.

[Its] pretty amazing that they would go that far," Moore told CP.

For example, a Tennessee school district asked parents to sign a waiver promising not to listen to or monitor their children's virtual learning sessions due to concerns about "confidential information about a student being revealed."

The district later issued guidance that would allow parents to "assist their children during virtual group lessons with permission of the instructor."

"They are fearful, the public school people are fearful that the parents will discover what they've been doing to harm the children, and they are in fact discovering it, Moore concluded. The system's out of control. It can't correct itself.

Moore elaborated on the content that some public school children have been exposed to in school, including lessons related to the Black Lives Matter movement, transgender ideology and critical race theory, which he described as "viruses that have attached themselves to the education system."

In addition to slamming the "anti-Christian" philosophy that has infiltrated some public schools, he reiterated that the U.S. and other nations find themselves in "a 100-year moment for private Christian schools and homeschooling."

While acknowledging the tragedy of the COVID-19 pandemic, Moore said that the widespread closure of public schools has provided "an unprecedented opportunity for K-12 Christian schools and homeschools to really accelerate and grow exponentially."

Moore pointed to studies finding that a significant share of students who attended public schools before the pandemic might never return to the state-run schools when the pandemic comes to an end and in-person learning resumes on a mass scale.

Although Dockery was "expecting an enrollment decline of perhaps deep significance because of the coronavirus," he told CP that "overall our enrollment has maintained health.

The level has been better than what we expected, and there are a handful of schools that even have shown increases for which we are both surprised and grateful, Dockery said.

Greene agreed with Moore that the widespread closure of public schools was "a long-overdue disruption of a very outdated education system" that triggered "the most robust period of innovation in the entire history of education in America."

She told CP that "American society and American parents have relied on outsourcing their education to schools for 100 years and in a blink, we experienced how fragile that framework is."

"Parents started opening their mind for new ways for children to learn, which is so exciting," she recalled.

Greene cheered one new method of learning: the increased establishment of "learning pods," a form of homeschooling where a group of parents and their children band together, and each parent would teach the children a specific subject.

She also disagreed with the notion that children learned less during the widespread closure of public schools than they would have if they were attending school for in-person learning.

"Many families experienced this completely new vast expanses of free time during the pandemic and the things that parents and children did to discover new talents and passions, new interests and curiosities in this free time might very well lay the foundation for their future careers, Greene added.

"The way that families got outside in new ways during the pandemic, there's a completely new path of learning for many kids who go to public schools and get 20 minutes of outside time per day. There was a verifiable explosion in making things, in hands-on making things, meaning people who never picked up a needle and a thread started making things with their kids. People who never baked cookies all of a sudden were making sourdough starters, and it goes on and on and on.

Greene concluded that if the insight was available to measure how our kids actually grew during the pandemic, we might discover that they learned more than they would have in traditional schools."

Moving forward

The experts who spoke with CP shared their thoughts on what they think the state of American education will look like following the pandemic and what changes they would like to see regarding education in the U.S. going forward.

Manning predicted that following the pandemic, Americans will "have a greater appreciation for the importance of education. Not simply as a means for educating children but as a means for learning social skills and allowing peer-to-peer interaction." She also expressed hope that "many of these bills that have been proposed in state legislatures to allow for greater school choice" will become law.

Specifically, Manning would like to see policies enabling "all families to have an education savings account that is funded by the state and allows them to direct their education dollars to public schools, private schools, homeschool pods or other education models.

Manning favors the implementation of a "robust school choice policy" that extends beyond "people who have the resources" and "the financial security that supports alternative methods."

Dockery hypothesized that following the pandemic, "parents will take more responsibility for the education of their children" and "Christian education in various forms" will "expand and be strengthened."

He told CP that he believes society has learned a new level of flexibility that will lead to new levels of innovation for the days ahead."

"I think we have learned that online education is here to stay," he added. "I think we have all learned how to use online learning, and we will continue to do so, making it not an auxiliary option but a significant part of our educational offerings, Dockery said.

So yes, I agree that the changes that have been implemented during the COVID season will likely remain with us, but I think our schools have adjusted well to the hybrid model, and we'll be healthy and maybe even stronger as a result of it."

With the expansion of homeschooling following the pandemic, Moore suggested that "it's possible the public school system will begin to implode and unravel and ideally collapse."

He surmised that such a scenario would allow the U.S. to "revert back to a private, free-market, Christian and home education, which was the original American model for the first 200 years of American history."

"Public education is a socialistic model in education. And socialism never works, Moore asserted. It always is very self-destructive, and it's not working now in education. So public education is pretty well dysfunctional, and a lot of people know it."

Moore envisioned an America where parents and churches were working together by "rescuing the children" from public schools, believing that such an arrangement would lead to the home transforming into a "biblical learning center" that "strengthens marriages" and ends up "revitalizing the family."

Greene praised the rise in parental engagement that has accompanied the coronavirus pandemic. She expressed hope that when the pandemic is over, people will not forget that "ultimately, the people who are most responsible for our children's education are the parents." She warned that "without the parents' voice in the revitalizing of our education system in this final moment, things will simply regress into status quo.

So this is the time for people to stay engaged and speak up and not just slide back into outsourcing our children to schools, the author said.
Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence offers apology after ex-member arrested for indecent exposure Texas church invites SPI troupe to 'drag Sunday' event

A national anti-Catholic drag troupe says it unreservedly condemns the actions leading to the arrest of a former member who police say masturbated in public for over an hour.

The statement shared with The Christian Post from the Eureka House of The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence (SPI) was the organizations first public comment since the arrest of Clinton Monroe Ellis-Gilmore, 53, of Eureka.

Gilmore was arrested Aug. 12 in Humboldt County for allegedly exposing himself in the drivers seat of a car parked where authorities say he was reported by multiple witnesses to have been sitting in his truck with the door open, masturbating for approximately one hour.

In response to Gilmores arrest, SPI said Gilmore was not yet an official member but was in a probationary process to become a full member at one time, a process which the group says ended in October 2020.

The statement  which touted SPI as a ministry dating back to the early days of the AIDS crisis in San Francisco  apologized and added that the group uses a long and complex process for admitting new members in order to ensure they will not bring dishonor to our order.

We offer our most profound apologies to the community for what happened and specifically to any individuals impacted by this inexcusable behavior, the statement said. It is not representative of our Order, our values, or the hundreds of individuals who serve as Sisters.

Since its start in 1979, SPI has hosted and/or participated in a number of blasphemous public events, including referring to Jesus Christ as the Condom Savior, hosting an annual Hunky Jesus contest on Easter Sundays and reportedly carrying a 20-foot replica of a penis.

SPI is also known for mocking the crucifixion of Christ as a stripper-style pole dance.

Following Gilmores arrest, its unclear how or whether that will impact future SPI events, but at least one church in North Texas has invited the group and others to take part in a drag Sunday event this weekend.

The Cathedral of Hope United Church of Christ in Dallas says it will include in its Sept. 17 Sunday service a moment to offer our blessings to the drag queens who have contributed to our community in such inspiring ways.

As part of that service, the Cathedral of Hope invited SPI along with the local LGBT groups Dallas Bears and the Royal Court to be part of this remarkable blessing.

The church-hosted drag event is said to be a response to the enactment of Senate Bill 12, a new state law that prohibits children and youth younger than 18 from attending sexually oriented performances.

As part of the performance, Cathedral of Hope is asking supporters to contribute to the Drag Defense Fund, which goes toward financing ACLU legal fights against what it calls anti-LGBT legislation.

The Cathedral of Hope is also collecting donations for the Drag Defense Fund, which finances the ACLUs legal challenges against anti-[LGBT] legislation.

In their statement, SPI said it was particularly frustrating for us to have to address this accusation of inexcusable behavior [by Gilmore] at a time when we know many are seeking any way to marginalize and minimize us.

The group  which includes members with vulgar names like Sister GladAss of the Joyous Reserectum, Sister Lourdes Mae Shepherd, and Sister Oletta B. Demonic  also urged its critics to consider whether all the current and former members of their own organizations are without sin before hurling stones at our entire organization based on the alleged behavior of a former member.

In July, Google distanced itself from a scheduled company pride event featuring a member of SPI who called himself "Mistress of the Most Holy Mass after Christian employees accused the internet search giant of religious discrimination.

And despite allegations to the contrary from the Catholic League and other conservative religious groups, SPI denied holding any ill will toward Catholics, but rather professed their support for equity and inclusion.

We should also clarify that we do not profess hatred toward the Catholic church, or any other organization, as many have claimed, the statement read. ... We are simply the latest in a long line of marginalized communities who have fought and sacrificed to ensure their dignity and rights as humans.

We stand on the shoulders of giants and will continue to fight for our goal of a truly just, inclusive, and equitable society where a persons worth is not measured according to another persons faith.
Suicide rates at all-time high

According to The Associated Press, nearly 50,000 people committed suicide last year, an absolute record in terms of raw numbers and the highest rate in nearly a century. Though, as one scholar noted, theres always the chance that the numbers are up on account of better reporting, that doesnt explain the consistent increase in these numbers over the last two decades. Something is broken in the United States, and its us.

Why, in the most prosperous time to be alive in human history, do so many think that they would be better off dead? Nor do these numbers about suicide tell the complete story. Along with the dramatic increase in substance-abuse-related deaths, particularly opioids, deaths related to alcohol abuse and other addictions, and the suicide-by-slaughter of mass shootings, we face an outbreak of what is being called deaths of despair.

Some of this could be the result of an increasingly vitriolic cultural environment. After all, it is hard to be hopeful when everyone is yelling at everyone else. Students in particular are victims of the ubiquity of smartphones and their amoral algorithms. And, although the economy has, over the same period, seen incredible expansion overall, places like the Rust Belt now mirror the frustrations of inner cities as industries disappear along with opportunities for meaningful labor.

In addition to these structural concerns, were also living downstream from particularly destructive ideas. For decades, American society has been steadily stripped of those meaning-making stories that made it, specifically the religious framing that placed our lives as part of something bigger. For even longer, weve been telling ourselves that transcendent things like truth, beauty, and goodness are imaginary and that we are nothing more than matter in motion on a pale blue dot adrift in the heavens.

The more recent orthodoxies of Critical Theory preach self-loathing as the only means of salvation, while at the tail end of the sexual revolution, our identities have been uprooted, tethered only to what we feel and are willing to self-determine. In the process, weve created a culture of victimhood, much of it fabricated, and have positioned it as the goal of life.

All of this is a powerful recipe for social and individual instability, but thats not all. Voices of the state and media have, in the last several years, marketed suicide as a positive choice, the final solution to lifes problems, and the final expression of autonomy and, thus, dignity. A growing number of U.S. states and the nation of Canada have embraced and now sell suicide to their citizens, using the language of medical assistance. Though what they provide is neither. Argued with the language of autonomy and avoiding suffering, the end result is always more death. By making it an option, weve made suicide more likely.

All this weighs most of all upon our neighbors and friends struggling with mental illnesses. In a culture broken and enmeshed by meaninglessness, double damage is done to these hurting souls. If we hope to prevent our neighbors from dying too soon, well first have to help them answer the question: What is there to live for? A life without meaning will remain empty, no matter how much we try to fill it with prosperity, status, technological gadgets, autonomy, infinite choice, and distraction.

To borrow from Thomas Aquinas, an increasingly secular culture removes any real conviction we have that its even possible to share in the goodness of God. Thus, itll take the Church, both as an institution and as individuals, to reach those who are hurting. Remaining open to our own pains and struggles, we can place them within a larger framework of meaning and hope. Christians, too, battle with despair but while knowing it will not have the final word. Christ does, so hope does.

To better prepare to offer this hope in this fragile moment, please consider our Hope Always course featuring Dr. Matthew Sleeth. This course is available online, can be accessed anytime, and can be studied alone or as part of a community committed to providing healing to hurting neighbors. Go to educators.colsoncenter.org for more information.

Originally published at BreakPoint.
Hong Kong: Over 1,500 teachers lauded

Secretary for Education Choi Yuk-lin paid tribute to more than 1,500 teachers for their dedication to the teaching profession at the Salute to Teachers 2023 - Teachers' Day & Commendation Certificate Presentation Ceremony today.



The number of teachers commended this year was the second highest on record.



While addressing those gathered at the event, Ms Choi expressed gratitude to all the teachers for nurturing talent selflessly with dedication.



She said that a good teacher not only possesses professional teaching competencies and commitment to nurturing students, but also aspiration and beliefs, high moral standards and noble virtues, extensive knowledge and benevolence.



Ms Choi stressed that teachers should strive for continuous self-advancement to enhance professional capacity so that students could be nurtured with correct moral values.



She also noted that in President Xi Jinpings recent reply to Hong Kong students, he especially encouraged students to "strengthen their affection for and sense of belonging to the country and sharpen their skills and abilities".



Whether the younger generation could make contributions to building an even better Hong Kong and advancing national rejuvenation would hinge on teachers' support and guidance to lay a solid foundation for students' learning, she added.



The Education Bureau is committed to supporting the professional development of teachers by providing them with systematic training, enhancing the training requirements for their promotion, and supporting them with the aim of enhancing their professionalism and capability to address the needs of different duties at different positions.



Various opportunities for overseas exchange, Mainland study tours and field visits are also arranged for teachers to gain a first-hand understanding of the country and its latest development, and broaden their horizons.



Ms Choi said she hopes that teachers will seize the opportunity to actively participate in professional development programmes and strive for excellence in their professional journey.



Organised by the Committee on Respect Our Teachers Campaign, the Teachers' Commendation Scheme is in its 28th year. Over 36,000 teachers have been commended so far.

This story has been published on: 2023-09-14. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
China-Singapore joint military exercise concludes

Xinhua) 10:49, September 14, 2023

SINGAPORE, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- China and Singapore have successfully concluded here the fifth edition of a bilateral training exercise at the Jurong Camp.

Elite Chinese and Singaporean ground forces exercised reconnaissance, encirclement and control, penetration, fire strikes, hostage rescue, and rapid evacuation in mixed task force groups during a comprehensive urban anti-terrorism drill Tuesday.

Senior officers from the two armies congratulated a successful ending of the exercise and expected more exchanges in the future.

Focusing on urban counter-terrorism operations, members of the two armies also exercised snipe, hand-to-hand combat and rappelling, among other subjects in the event.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
TOKYO, Sep 14 ( News On Japan ) - Two Chinese men have been arrested on suspicion of stealing 350 peaches in Yamanashi Prefecture, central Japan, as a series of peach thefts grips the area.

The suspects, identified as Mr. Ryu Ichuan (age 28) and Mr. Ryu Jienchan (age 37), both of Chinese nationality residing in Ishiwa-cho, Fuefuki City, were apprehended.

According to police, the two individuals are suspected of stealing around 350 peaches from a peach orchard in Fuefuki City in late June, amounting to approximately 100,000 yen in value.

The peaches were found in several shopping baskets and had been left in the orchard.

Both suspects were previously arrested last month on charges related to illegal immigration.

The police have not disclosed whether the suspects have admitted to the allegations.

A spate of peach thefts has occurred in the city from June to July, and authorities are investigating these incidents further.
TOKYO, Sep 15 ( NHK ) - Japan's Prince Hisahito tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday. He is the nephew of Emperor Naruhito and second in line to the throne after his father, Crown Prince Akishino.

The Imperial Household Agency says the prince had a fever on Wednesday after returning home from school. He took an antigen test but the result was negative.

The prince was confirmed to be infected with the coronavirus when he was tested again on Thursday morning. Agency officials say he will rest through Monday.

The officials say his parents, Crown Prince and Princess Akishino, both tested negative.
Primeste notificari pe email Nota bene: Adresele email cu extensia .ru nu sunt acceptate.

Contractare si Achizitie Bunuri Anunturi de Angajare Granturi - Finantari Burse de studiu Stagii Profesionale Oportunitati de voluntariat Toate Articolele
Libyan Red Crescent emergency teams are responding to support those impacted by the devastating flooding in the northeast of the country. Volunteers are providing first aid, rescue and are evacuating families.

Several major UK charities have launched appeals for funding as they respond to flooding in Libya, which has led to a death toll of around 6,000, and around 10,000 people missing.

Charities including Islamic Relief, Unicef, British Red Cross and Chrisitan Aid all began asking for donations this week.

The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) said it was also considering an appeal for those affected by floods in Libya as well as the recent earthquake in Morocco .

DEC has three criteria which must be met before it launches an appeal: that the disaster is on such a scale and of such urgency as to call for swift international humanitarian assistance, that at least some of its member charities are able to provide effective and swift humanitarian assistance at scale, and that there are reasonable grounds for concluding that a public appeal would be successful.

Storm Daniel caused two dams to collapse, causing damage to homes and infrastructure in the city of Derna and elsewhere.

Islamic Relief

Islamic Relief is working with local partners on the ground and delivering urgently needed relief like mattresses and blankets.

The charity will also be delivering food packs, and other vital aid to affected communities. It has committed an initial 100,000 to provide emergency aid.

It is calling on all governments to increase their pledges to aid organisations providing humanitarian responses in Libya.

Unicef UK

Unicef UK has launched an appeal .

A statement from the charity reads: In an emergency, children are always among the most vulnerable. We are especially concerned about childrens access to clean water and the prevention of deadly diseases like cholera. In emergencies like this, it is also critical to establish shelters to protect children and families.

It has launched a Libya floods appeal to help reach children and families. The charity said it is supporting the government of Libya to reach people, with life-saving supplies and services.

Action Against Hunger

Action Against Hunger has also launched an emergency appeal to help victims of the flooding in Libya.

The charity has teams in Libya currently, ready to help people affected by the violent flooding, and need funding to reach more families that need support.

It says before the floods, 1.5 million people in Libya were already in need of humanitarian support, and this disaster will only increase the need.

The charitys teams in Libya, alongside the Libyan Red Crescent, will help 1,000 people by providing food, hygiene kits and other essential items.

British Red Cross

In response to the catastrophic flooding in Libya, British Red Cross has launched an emergency appeal to support the people affected.

The Libyan Red Crescent is helping deliver vital aid to people in the flooded areas and is supporting rescue efforts.

This includes first aid and medical assistance, assisting with rescue, evacuating families and the provision of food, water and emergency shelter kits.

International Rescue Committee UK

International Rescue Committee (IRC) UK has also launched an appeal after Storm Daniel struck Libya.

The charitys statement reads: Whole neighbourhoods have been washed away, leaving over 32,000 people displaced without homes and basic necessities. The IRC team is assessing needs right now.

Please make an immediate donation to support our work in crisis zones like Libya and in more than 40 countries worldwide.

Penny Appeal

Penny Appeal has also launched an appeal.

The charity said the death toll is expected to reach 10,000 according to Othman Abdel Jalil, a health minister in Libya.

Help us deliver essential medical aid to people in desperate need, its appeal says.

Christian Aid

Christian Aid is working with Dan Church Aid (DCA), their Act Alliance partner who have had an established presence in Libya since 2011.

Michael Mosselmans, Christian Aids head of humanitarian division, said: The scenes in Libya are heartbreaking. With critical infrastructure, including hospitals and homes, washed away by the flooding we are seeing people without the basics such as access to clean water and proper sanitation to prevent the risk of diseases.

Christian Aid has therefore launched an appeal to strengthen the support we can give through our partner, Dan Church Aid, to people who have lost their homes, livelihoods and loved ones.

CARE International UK

CARE International UK has launched an emergency appeal to assist people affected by the disaster in Derna.

The charity's first priority will be to provide hot meals, safe water, emergency shelter and medical support to people who have been impacted by the devastation.

CARE is particularly concerned about the impact on women and girls, as well as other marginalised groups, who are often the worst affected by crises of this scale.

sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector,
Blog Archive: Oct 2023 (155) Sep 2023 (150) Aug 2023 (155) Jul 2023 (155) Jun 2023 (150) May 2023 (155) Apr 2023 (150) Mar 2023 (155) Feb 2023 (140) Jan 2023 (155) Dec 2022 (156) Nov 2022 (150) Oct 2022 (155) Sep 2022 (150) Aug 2022 (155) Jul 2022 (154) Jun 2022 (150) May 2022 (155) Apr 2022 (150) Mar 2022 (155) Feb 2022 (140) Jan 2022 (156) Dec 2021 (156) Nov 2021 (150) Oct 2021 (155) Sep 2021 (150) Aug 2021 (155) Jul 2021 (155) Jun 2021 (150) May 2021 (155) Apr 2021 (150) Mar 2021 (155) Feb 2021 (140) Jan 2021 (155) Dec 2020 (155) Nov 2020 (150) Oct 2020 (158) Sep 2020 (150) Aug 2020 (130) Jul 2020 (124) Jun 2020 (120) May 2020 (124) Apr 2020 (120) Mar 2020 (124) Feb 2020 (116) Jan 2020 (125) Dec 2019 (126) Nov 2019 (120) Oct 2019 (124) Sep 2019 (120) Aug 2019 (125) Jul 2019 (124) Jun 2019 (120) May 2019 (123) Apr 2019 (121) Mar 2019 (124) Feb 2019 (112) Jan 2019 (125) Dec 2018 (126) Nov 2018 (120) Oct 2018 (124) Sep 2018 (121) Aug 2018 (124) Jul 2018 (125) Jun 2018 (120) May 2018 (124) Apr 2018 (121) Mar 2018 (124) Feb 2018 (112) Jan 2018 (123) Dec 2017 (124) Nov 2017 (124) Oct 2017 (141) Sep 2017 (135) Aug 2017 (138) Jul 2017 (137) Jun 2017 (134) May 2017 (138) Apr 2017 (135) Mar 2017 (139) Feb 2017 (129) Jan 2017 (143) Dec 2016 (135) Nov 2016 (138) Oct 2016 (142) Sep 2016 (128) Aug 2016 (133) Jul 2016 (136) Jun 2016 (138) May 2016 (164) Apr 2016 (311) Mar 2016 (348) Feb 2016 (320) Jan 2016 (348) Dec 2015 (314) Nov 2015 (338) Oct 2015 (363) Sep 2015 (358) Aug 2015 (399) Jul 2015 (374) Jun 2015 (331) May 2015 (337) Apr 2015 (319) Mar 2015 (320) Feb 2015 (271) Jan 2015 (286) Dec 2014 (254) Nov 2014 (238) Oct 2014 (287) Sep 2014 (267) Aug 2014 (259) Jul 2014 (260) Jun 2014 (238) May 2014 (241) Apr 2014 (228) Mar 2014 (240) Feb 2014 (217) Jan 2014 (263) Dec 2013 (226) Nov 2013 (254) Oct 2013 (256) Sep 2013 (252) Aug 2013 (263) Jul 2013 (261) Jun 2013 (251) May 2013 (250) Apr 2013 (221) Mar 2013 (193) Feb 2013 (164) Jan 2013 (157) Dec 2012 (155) Nov 2012 (240) Oct 2012 (526) Sep 2012 (411) Aug 2012 (394) Jul 2012 (284) Jun 2012 (229) May 2012 (213) Apr 2012 (213) Mar 2012 (253) Feb 2012 (269) Jan 2012 (298) Dec 2011 (273) Nov 2011 (219) Oct 2011 (204) Sep 2011 (201) Aug 2011 (236) Jul 2011 (217) Jun 2011 (211) May 2011 (206) Apr 2011 (215) Mar 2011 (215) Feb 2011 (186) Jan 2011 (215) Dec 2010 (107) Nov 2010 (98) Oct 2010 (55)
In 1998, the US Department of Justice sued Microsoft, alleging that the company had abused its monopoly over personal computing by forcing users of its Windows operating system to adopt Internet Explorer as their browser, among other things. In 2001, the two sides settled the case. The government initially asked for Microsoft to be broken up. That outcome was overturned on appeal, but some experts argued that the glare of the legal spotlight nonetheless slowed Microsoft down in key ways. These, in turn, allowed an upstart named Googlefounded a month before the trial was launchedto eventually dominate the internet search market.

Two decades later, Google is ten times the size that Microsoft was in the nineties, with a market value of almost two trillion dollars and control over more than 90 percent of online search and related advertising. On Tuesday, the first major antitrust case since the Microsoft trial got underway in a DC courtroomwith Google in the role of defendant. The Justice Department intends to prove that Google has misused its search monopoly to harm its competitors and that it has maintained that monopoly through illegal means, including paying smartphone companies like Apple billions of dollars to make Google the default search engine on their products. (Googles dominance in advertising is the subject of a separate lawsuit that has yet to reach trial.) Kenneth Dintzer, a Justice Department lawyer, opened by arguing that Google viewed these default search deals as a powerful strategic weapon to cut out rivals. The resulting feedback loop, Dintzer argued, is a wheel that has been turning for more than twelve years, always to Googles advantage.

Googles lawyer hit back, arguing that users today have more search options and more ways to access information online than ever before. The crux of the companys defense was outlined in a pretrial filing arguing that the Justice Department has defined the search market too narrowly, that Google doesnt have a monopoly (which it defines as the ability to raise prices beyond a competitive level), and that its dominance in that market actually helps consumers. According to Google, its status as the default browser on products like Apples did not result from massive payments but because Google successfully competed on the meritsthat is, on the basis of product quality and price. Breaking up the company, or forcing it to divest itself of certain software operations, would make the global technology landscape poorer for everyone, Google says. The trial continues, and could take as long as ten weeks to conclude.

The Times has characterized the case as the most significant challenge to big tech in the modern internet era on the basis that the outcome could affect the entire technology industry, not least other behemoths such as Meta (which has been the target of its own antitrust lawsuit), Amazon, and Apple itself. Some observers view the Google case and other similar activity in the US as part of an effort by the Biden administration to match the recent trust-busting behavior of the European Union, which has levied multibillion-dollar fines against Google and Meta. But some legal experts reckon that the US could find it difficult to bring its legal action to a satisfactory conclusionjust as it failed to do with Microsoft in the ninetiesprecisely because US antitrust law is not European antitrust law.

In the US, obtaining a monopoly through anticompetitive behavior is illegal, as is maintaining that monopoly by similar meansbut having a monopoly is not illegal in itself. (In the Microsoft case, for example, the court ruled that the company engaged in anticompetitive behavior by forcing computer makers to install its Internet Browser software alongside the Windows operating system.) Sean Sullivan, a former antitrust attorney with the Federal Trade Commission, told Ars Technica that its not enough that the defendants conduct disadvantages its rivals; the government has to prove that Google, in doing so, lacked any business justification except to reduce the rivals competitive significance.

Traditionally, US courts have defined anticompetitive behavior, in no small part, by assessing whether consumers have been harmed, with an emphasis on economic harm. Google can argue that its dominance in search benefits users because its service is free. The Department of Justice is expected to counter that consumers can be harmed in ways that go beyond high prices: lack of choice could also be defined as consumer harm, as could low product quality. In its pretrial filing, the Justice Department argued that Googles anticompetitive conduct has harmed consumers because Google has not innovated as it would have with competitive pressure.

Sign up for CJR 's daily email

Advocates of stronger government action against companies such as Google and Meta have argued for some time, however, that US antitrust laws focus on consumers and prices has made it too difficult to prove harm, with the result of effectively condoning the existence of monopoliesinstead of assuming (as regulators in the EU tend to do) that they are objectively bad. The Obama administration examined allegations of anticompetitive behavior by Google, but in 2013, it closed the case without launching a formal investigation; more recently, when the FTC has tried to rein in the tech giants, it has had trouble meeting the laws threshold of proof. As Ars Technica notes, last year Congress recommended that antitrust laws be strengthened in order to more directly prohibit the abuse of monopolies. But those suggestions have gone nowhere.

The Washington Post reports that the Google trial is part of a broader reappraisal in Washington of the common wisdom that the internet is open by nature and therefore can self-regulate through free-market competition, and that advocates of stronger antitrust action fear that the tech giants will use their market dominance to control the next generation of technology, not least in the field of artificial intelligence. Phil Weiser, the Colorado attorney general who helped persuade a coalition of states to join the Justice Departments lawsuit, told the Post that, in the nineties, the internet was widely viewed as a dynamic, wide-open, competitive area that was just going to bring goodness to the world. Today, he said, the world looks very different. We see a lot of harms.

In 1998, the Microsoft case was a front-page story for some time, driven in part by a frenzy in internet stocks and the fact that Bill Gates, the companys founder and CEO, was then the richest man in the world, with a net worth of more than a hundred billion dollars. Going forward, the Google case may not be quite as compellingin part because lawsuits against tech companies have become commonplace but also because the judge hearing the case has agreed to restrict the amount of information coming out of court. In addition to sealing many of the documents in the case following Googles argument that they include proprietary information, access to the trial has been restricted. (The judge recently denied a request to provide a live audio feed.)

And even if the Justice Department succeeds in proving that Google has a monopoly and has illegally maintained it to the detriment of consumers, that still leaves the question of what remedy the court might impose. In Microsofts case, the company agreed not to engage in certain kinds of behavior going forward. The American Economic Liberties Projecta nonprofit anti-monopoly group funded in part by Pierre Omidyar, the founder of eBayhas recommended that Google be forced to spin off assets such as its Chrome browser or Android operating system. But the remedies could be smaller in scope: in order to sidestep penalties in the EU in 2019, for example, Google added a choice screen that allows users to pick their preferred search engine, instead of being forced to use Googles as the default.

The court and the Justice Department could also wind up where they did in 2001settling the case without breaking Google up but in ways that do slow the company down, allowing some new upstart to win the next iteration of the internet. That, perhaps, would be the best outcome of all. Or it could lead to another generational antitrust trial in twenty-five years time.



Other notable stories:

ICYMI: How Australias politicians rallied behind Julian Assange

Mathew Ingram is CJRs chief digital writer. Previously, he was a senior writer with Fortune magazine. He has written about the intersection between media and technology since the earliest days of the commercial internet. His writing has been published in the Washington Post and the Financial Times as well as by Reuters and Bloomberg.
DERNA, Libya (AP)  Search teams combed streets, wrecked buildings and even the sea for bodies in a devastated eastern Libyan city on Wednesday, where authorities said massive flooding had killed at least 5,100 people, with the toll expected to rise further.

Authorities were still struggling to get aid to the Mediterranean coastal city of Derna after Sunday nights deluge washed away most access roads. Aid workers who managed to reach the city described devastation in its center, with thousands still missing and tens of thousands left homeless.

Bodies are everywhere, inside houses, in the streets, at sea. Wherever you go, you find dead men, women, and children, Emad al-Falah, an aid worker from Benghazi, said over the phone from Derna. Entire families were lost.

Mediterranean storm Daniel caused deadly flooding in many towns of eastern Libya on Sunday, but the worst-hit was Derna. Two dams outside in the mountains above the city collapsed, sending floodwaters washing down the Wadi Derna river and through the city center, sweeping away entire city blocks. Waves rose as high as 7 meters (23 feet), Yann Fridez, head of the delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Libya, told broadcaster France24.

Mohammed Derna, a teacher in the city, said he, his family and neighbors rushed to the roof of their apartment building, stunned at the volume of water rushing by. It reached the second story of many buildings, he said. They watched people below, including women and children being washed away.

They were screaming, help, help, he said over the phone from a field hospital in Derna. It was like a Hollywood horror movie.

Derna lies on a narrow coastal plain on the Mediterranean Sea, under steep mountains running along the coast. Only two roads from the south remain usable, and they involve a long, winding route through the mountains.

Aid teams with some supplies managed to get in that way, while authorities in eastern Libya worked Wednesday to repair the faster coastal access routes.

Otherwise, local emergency workers were relying on whatever equipment they already had on hand. Search teams combed shattered apartment buildings and retrieved the dead floating offshore in the Mediterranean Sea, al-Falah said. Collapsed bridges the river split the city center, further hampering movement.

Ossama Ali, a spokesman for the Ambulance and Emergency Center in eastern Libya, said at least 5,100 deaths were recorded in Derna, along with around 100 others elsewhere in eastern Libya. More than 7,000 people were injured in the city, most receiving treatment in field hospitals that authorities and aid agencies set up, he told The Associated Press by phone Wednesday.

The number of deaths is likely to increase since teams are still collecting bodies from the streets, buildings and the sea, he said. At least 9,000 remain missing, but that number could drop as communications are restored, Ali said.

At least 30,000 people in Derna were displaced by the flooding, the U.N.s International Organization for Migration said, adding that the city remained almost inaccessible for humanitarian aid workers.

The startling devastation pointed to the storms intensity, but also Libyas vulnerability. The country is divided by rival governments, one in the east, the other in the west, and the result has been neglect of infrastructure in many areas.

This is a disaster in every sense of the word, a wailing survivor who lost 11 members of his family told a local television station as a group of rescuers tried to calm him. The television station did not identify the survivor.

Ahmed Abdalla, a survivor who joined the search and rescue effort, said they were putting bodies in the yard of a local hospital before taking them for burial in mass graves at Dernas sole intact cemetery.

The situation is indescribable. Entire families dead in this disaster. Some were washed away to the sea, Abdalla said by phone from Derna.

Bulldozers worked over the past two days to fix and clear roads to allow the delivery of humanitarian aid and heavy equipment. Derna is 250 kilometers (150 miles) east of Benghazi, where international aid started to arrive on Tuesday.

Libyas neighbors, Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia, as well as Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, sent rescue teams and aid. President Joe Biden also said the United States is sending emergency funds to relief organizations and coordinating with the Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support.

Mohammed Abu-Lamousha, a spokesman for the eastern Libyan interior ministry, on Tuesday put the death tally in Derna at more than 5,300, according to the state- run news agency. Dozens of others were reported dead in other towns in eastern Libya, he said.

Authorities have transferred hundreds of bodies to morgues in nearby towns. More than 300, including 84 Egyptians, were brought to the morgue in the city of Tobruk, 169 kilometers (105 miles) east of Derna, the local Medical Center reported.

The victims lists reflected how Libya, despite its turmoil, was always a magnet for workers from around the region because of its oil industry.

More than 70 of Dernas dead all hailed from a single southern Egyptian village, el-Sharif. On Wednesday morning, hundreds attended a mass funeral in the village for 64 repatriated bodies. Rabei Hefny said his extended family lost 16 men in the flooding, 12 of whom were buried Wednesday. Another funeral for four others was held in a town in the northern Nile Delta.

Among those killed in Libya was also the family of Saleh Sariyeh, a Palestinian originally from the Ein el-Hilweh refugee camp in Lebanon who had lived in Derna for decades. The 62-year-old, his wife and two daughters were all killed when their home in Derna was washed away, his nephew Mohammed Sariyeh told the AP.

The four were buried in Derna. Because of ongoing gunbattles in Ein el-Hilweh, the family there could not hold a gathering to receive condolences from friends and neighbors, Mohammed said.

Derna, about 900 kilometers (560 miles) east of the capital, Tripoli, is controlled by the forces of powerful military commander Khalifa Hifter, who is allied with the eastern Libyan government. The rival government in western Libya, based in Tripoli, is allied with other armed groups.

Derna was once a hub for extremist groups in the years of chaos that followed the NATO-backed uprising that toppled and killed longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011.

Top photo: This combination of satellite photos from Planet Labs PBC shows Derna, Libya, on Sept. 2, 2023, before flooding, top, and after on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, bottom. The destruction came to Derna and other parts of eastern Libya on Sunday night, Sept. 10, 2023. As the storm pounded the coast, Derna residents said they heard loud explosions and realized that dams outside the city had collapsed. Flash floods were unleashed down Wadi Derna, a river running from the mountains through the city and into the sea. (Planet Labs PBC via AP)

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
CANBERRA, Australia (AP)  Emergency crews were working to protect the Outback Australian town of Tennant Creek with containment lines on Wednesday as a huge wildfire threatened the remote community of 3,000.

The fire has scorched 10,000 square kilometers (3,900 square miles) of grass and scrubland in the Northern Territory east of Tennant Creek, a former gold mining town.

Police Acting Commander James Gray-Spence said authorities had worked through the night to burn protective containment lines east and south of the town.

There is a high level of confidence that those containment lines are in place, planned and prepared, Gray-Spence told Australian Broadcasting Corp.

Wildfires are common across Australias northern tropical region during the current dry season that will end when the monsoons arrive during the Southern Hemisphere summer.

Because water is in short supply across the region, fire fighting largely involves excavating fire breaks with earthmoving equipment.

But teams were also using water bombers and strategic backburning against the fire near Tennant Creek which began last week.

Charles Darwin University wildfire researcher Rohan Fisher said the fire was unusual in its large size and that it was encroaching on a community. Fires rarely threaten communities in Australias sparsely populated north.

It is one of the largest events that weve seen for a while, Fisher said.

Fires of around this scale are not that uncommon in really remote parts of Australia, although theyre usually not reported on, Fisher added.

Unusually abundant rain in recent years meant there was more fuel in the landscape than usual, he said.

The Northern Territory government on Tuesday declared an emergency situation in Tennant Creek and the surrounding Barkly region, which gives police emergency powers to move people and assets.

Police Commissioner Michael Murphy said he was confident the town would not need to be evacuated and the emergency declaration was a precautionary measure for public safety.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
The grounding of a luxury cruise ship off the coast of Greenland on Monday highlighted the irony of touring the fast-warming Arctic on vessels powered by fossil fuels, the main culprit in climate change. But the incident also underscores the recent growth of marine traffic in the region, a trend that raises the risk of accidents and pollution in hard-to-reach places.

Global warming is destroying vast tracts of polar ice, opening previously frozen sea routes through the Arctic for longer periods. In the case of Greenland  where the Ocean Explorer was mired in glacial silt in a remote fjord before finally being freed Thursday  cruise ship traffic has risen 50% in the last year, to about 600 ships, according to Brian Jensen of the Danish militarys Joint Arctic Command.

That trend is seen across the Arctic. From the period of 2009 to 2018, ship traffic on a pan-Arctic scale doubled, said Paul Berkman, lead author of a 2022 report on the subject published by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Ship traffic is increasing as sea ice is decreasing.

The impact is being felt on remote ecosystems and communities as ships burning marine diesel, or methane-emitting liquefied natural gas, increasingly criss-cross the top of the globe. Some studies show the carbon footprint of cruise ships, per passenger, is bigger than that of passenger jets. Globally, maritime transport emits more CO2 than Germany.

More ship traffic also means a higher risk of accidents in remote, poorly mapped areas known for harsh and unpredictable weather conditions.

A 2021 report on Arctic marine disasters showed a 42% increase in accidents between 2005 and 2017 north of 58 degrees latitude, which encompasses the Arctic as well as some sub-arctic territory. The report acknowledged gaps in the data, noting that not all Arctic states provided information.

More than 40 expedition vessels  smaller ships capable of traversing narrow channels and shallow waters  were exploring the Arctic this summer, led by 20 different operators, according to Cruise Industry News. Popular routes included those across Canadas Northwest Passage and along the coasts of Greenland, Norway and the Svalbard Archipelago. Of even greater concern, though, are much larger conventional cruise ships capable of carrying thousands of passengers.

The Icelandic Coast Guard is very worried about the rising number of such vessels around Iceland and the Arctic, spokesperson Asgeir Erlendsson said. If any of those big ships run into trouble, there are many people on board and a rescue mission can take a long time and needs to involve a lot of people, he said. This requires international cooperation and using resources like the fishing fleet if needed. Rescuing with a helicopter for instance will be very time consuming under such circumstances.

Greenlands parliament will probably start talks about extending protection of land areas to also include waters, Vivian Motzfeldt, the countrys minister for business, trade and foreign affairs, told the countrys main newspaper, Sermitsiaq.

The current situation clearly shows that we must and need to work to ensure there are strict, clear and unambiguous legal requirements starting from the next cruise season, she told the media.

The Ocean Explorer was pulled free by a fishing expedition vessel before a Danish ship sent to rescue people on board was able to reach the ship. Other countries Arctic territories are even larger and more difficult to access. The Canadian Coast Guard has seven or eight icebreakers available each year to serve 162,000 kilometers (101,000 miles) of northern coastline, delivering supplies and providing search-and-rescue support.

Fewer than half of Canadas primary Arctic shipping corridors have been surveyed to modern standards, said Rashaad Bhamjee, superintendent of navigational programs for the Canadian Coast Guard. Less than 16% of its Arctic waters have been properly mapped. The worst case scenario, for us, would be having a large cruise ship, or a tanker, run aground or breach its hull.

The need to protect the region from environmental disasters has led some Arctic governments, including Canada, the US and Greenland, to impose bans on oil and gas exploration.

We simply dont have the technology or the capacity to respond to any sort of emergency or accident, Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told Bloomberg Green in an August 25 interview about the Arctic. You think of Deep Water Horizon, or things that happen in the Gulf of Mexico that at least arent hindered by sea ice and incredible remoteness  you couldnt do it.

Cargo shipping is also increasing, as melting ice opens routes that can shave days or even weeks off southerly routes. Russia has made transport through its Northern Sea Route a key pillar of future economic development. Chinas Arctic policy includes a Polar Silk Road to facilitate travel through the region. Military interest in the region is on the rise since Russias invasion of Ukraine. All of it spells increased future risks.

Other potential consequences include ships colliding with marine mammals, light and noise pollution, and the spread of diseases to remote Indigenous communities.

In the case of the Ocean Explorer, no oil appears to have leaked and the ship was freed with no apparent damage to the hull, and no injuries. Still, its a cautionary tale about the potential for disaster in what is still one of the most remote places on Earth.

Our worst-case scenario is a large cruise vessel with 8,000 to 9,000 people on board having an emergency in an isolated area, said Tore Wangsfjord, chief of operations at the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre North-Norway, which handles search-and-rescue operations over an area extending to the North Pole.

Of the Ocean Explorer, he added, Multiply the number of people on board by 25, and you can imagine the situation.

With assistance from Brendan Murray and Christian Wienberg.

Copyright 2023 Bloomberg.
Insurers often complain that their insureds do not read the insurance policy and compel them to fulfill all policy terms or receive nothing. In my experience almost no one reads an insurance policy until there is a dispute over a claim. In Michigan an insurer did not read the policy it issued.

In Village Of Kalkaska v. Michigan Municipal League Liability And Property Pool, No. 359267, Court of Appeals of Michigan (Aug. 31, 2023) a policy was issued to the Village that provided  by fairly clear language  coverage the insurer did not intend to provide and as a result found it obligated to pay claims for millions of dollars.

Michigan Municipal League Liability and Property Pool appealed the trial courts order denying its motion for summary disposition claiming that its intent was to exclude coverage for the losses claimed by the Village.

Facts

In 1996, plaintiff, Village of Kalkaska, contracted with certain of its employees to provide lifetime retirement health benefits. In 2014, plaintiff determined that the obligation to provide lifetime retirement health benefits to the employees was prohibitively expensive. Plaintiff therefore adopted a resolution ending its agreement to pay the employees lifetime retirement health benefits.

Four of the affected employees sued plaintiff for breach of contract. In one of the lawsuits, a jury awarded the employee present and future damages. Plaintiff thereafter settled the lawsuits with the other three employees for present and future damages. Plaintiff asserts that thus far the cost of resolving the lawsuits is nearly $2 million.

Defendant is a non-profit self-insurance pool owned and governed by its members that provides liability insurance to numerous Michigan municipalities. The policy provided plaintiff with various types of coverage, including coverage for liability in the administration of its employee benefits program.

Defendant moved for summary disposition on the basis that the policy does not provide coverage for plaintiffs intentional breach of its contract with its employees.

An insurance policy provision is valid if it is clear, unambiguous, and not in contravention of public policy. If a contract does not violate the law or a traditional defense to enforceability, a court is required to apply the unambiguous provisions of the contract as written because an unambiguous contract reflects the intent of the parties as a matter of law.

The Trial Courts Decision

The trial court first determined that the policy provides coverage, but then concluded that ambiguity in the policy necessitated submitting the matter to the jury. The trial court concluded that because the question was a close one, a genuine issue of material fact existed whether the Village was engaged in the administration of a benefits program when it terminated the employees lifetime retirement health benefits. Since a decision to terminate an employee benefit plan may qualify as a negligent act, error, or omission which causes a termination or cancellation of an employee under an employee benefit plan the Court noted that defendant made a strong argument that the wholesale termination may not be as comparable to administering under the plan, nothing within the contract of insurance that has been drafted by the defendant appears to allow for the distinction, even if its a good argument because it simply says, effecting enrollment, termination, or cancellation of employees.

The trial court concluded that no exclusions from coverage applied, but because it was a close question it was therefore ambiguous.

Public Policy

Defendant contended that regardless of the policy language, defendant obviously did not intend to assume any and all contractual liabilities upon which plaintiff chooses to intentionally default.

Defendant argued that it did not agree to pay plaintiffs contractual obligations, but only to pay damages arising from plaintiffs wrongful acts in administrating its employee benefits program, i.e., damages arising from plaintiffs breach of its contract obligations under its employee benefits program.

The claim in this case allows plaintiff intentionally to shift its contractual obligation to defendant. By so doing it provides an unreasonable result not intended by defendant. But the intent of the parties is determined by the unambiguous policy language as a matter of law and a court may not fail to enforce a contract on the basis of reasonableness.

Therefore, the trial court erred by finding an issue of material fact for the jury; the trial court should have found that the policy provides coverage and granted summary disposition for the plaintiff and the Court of Appeals reversed and remanded for entry of judgment for plaintiff.

Zalma Opinion

The greatest sin that an insurer can commit is to write an insurance policy that is ambiguous and that, as a result, provides a coverage it did not intend. In this case, because of the weakness of the policy language the insurer finds itself obligated to pay for a run-of-the-mill breach of contract, something no insurance company would intentionally cover. Insurers who usually insist on its insureds reading the policy as issued should not complain when it failed to read the policy it delivered to the insured in a manner understandable and unambiguous.
SHAKER HEIGHTS, Ohio -- A teens attempt to steal a car did not end as he had planned after he was eventually tracked down and arrested at a Cleveland garage.

At about 10:40 p.m. Monday (Sept. 11), Shaker Heights police officers were dispatched on a report of a male suspect attempting to steal a Kia vehicle in the 12000 block of Larchmere Boulevard.

Officers located the 17-year-old suspect and attempted to detain him. The boy ran and, while doing so, fired a gunshot at officers. The officers were uninjured.

Shortly after, police tracked the suspect to the 2000 block of East 126th Street in Cleveland. The boy was hiding atop a homes garage after failing to break into a residence.

Shaker Heights police notified Cleveland police, who sealed off the area and deployed negotiators and tactical resources.

Several hours later, at about 3:40 a.m., officers took the Cleveland resident into custody and recovered his gun. The suspect was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. Charges are pending.

Read more from the Sun Press.
AKRON, Ohio  A 24-year-old man who was being held in the Summit County Jail on drug and theft charges now is charged with murder after police accused him of the shooting death of a woman in July.

Jontae Watkins is accused of killing Ernestine Stallings, 34, on July 3, police say. Stallings was found wounded at about 1:30 p.m. in a parking lot on the 2000 block of West Market Street. She was pronounced dead at Cleveland Clinic Akron General Medical Center.

Police did not release information on a possible motive for the shooting or how Watkins might be linked to Stallings. They said investigators did conduct a search of a residence on Stoner Avenue last week in which drugs were seized and more than $33,000 in cash was found.

Watkins is being held in jail on a $50,000 bond on charges of murder, trafficking in drugs, possession of drugs, having weapons under disability, receiving stolen property, illegal use or possession of drug paraphernalia, and a probation violation, according to jail records.
HOUSTON  A federal judge ruled Wednesday that DACA, the federal policy that prevents deportation of immigrants brought to the United States as children, is illegal but allowed the program that offers protection to so-called Dreamers to continue as likely appeals proceed.

U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen agreed with Texas and eight other states suing to stop the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, program.

Hanen did not order a halt to the program. His ruling extends an injunction barring the federal government from approving any new applications but left the program intact for existing recipients during the ongoing legal review, The Associated Press said.

The judges ruling was ultimately expected to be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Hanen rejected a bid to order the programs end within two years. And he said his order does not require the federal government to take any actions against DACA recipients. That left the program intact for existing recipients.

While sympathetic to the predicament of DACA recipients and their families, this Court has expressed its concerns about the legality of the program for some time, Hanen wrote in his 40-page ruling. The solution for these deficiencies lies with the legislature, not the executive or judicial branches. Congress, for any number of reasons, has decided not to pass DACA-like legislation ... The Executive Branch cannot usurp the power bestowed on Congress by the Constitution  even to fill a void.

The Biden administration expressed disappointment.

As we have long maintained, we disagree with the District Courts conclusion that DACA is unlawful and will continue to defend this critical policy from legal challenges, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement. While we do so, consistent with the courts order, [the Department of Homeland Security] will continue to process renewals for current DACA recipients and DHS may continue to accept DACA applications.

Some 81% of DACA enrollees are from Mexico, followed by El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services data. About 164,000 live in California, which supports the legal efforts to defend the DACA program, while Texas is home to 95,000, Reuters said.

Former President Donald Trump sought to end DACA, but the U.S. Supreme Court stopped that action when it found Trumps attempt at termination did not comply with regulatory laws. The program was created in 2012 under former President Barack Obama when President Joe Biden was vice president.

Hanen, a Republican appointed by President George W. Bush, found that a regulation issued last year by Bidens administration did not remedy legal deficiencies that led him to find DACA unlawful in 2021 and block any expansion of the program, Reuters reported.

The conservative-leaning 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed Hanens ruling in October 2022, but sent the case back to him for reconsideration in light of new Biden regulations formalizing the program.

Texas and eight other states with Republican attorneys general -- Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Nebraska, South Carolina, West Virginia, Kansas and Mississippi -- argued that the program violates federal regulatory law and saddles them with education, healthcare and law enforcement costs.

Those defending the program  the federal government, the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund and the state of New Jersey  argue the states failed to show that any of the costs they allege they have incurred are tied to DACA recipients. They also argued Congress has given the Department of Homeland Security the legal authority to set immigration enforcement policies.

Judge Hanen has consistently erred in resolving both of these issues, and todays ruling is more of the same flawed analysis, Thomas Saenz, president and general counsel of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, told The Associated Press. We look forward to continuing to defend the lawful and much-needed DACA program on review in higher courts.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  The Catholic Diocese of Clevelands new policy that bars gender expression has pushed the region into a growing debate among the nations Catholics over LGBTQ issues.

The policy has spurred an outcry from people who say the directive, which impacts schools and parishes across eight counties, will harm LGBTQ parishioners, especially children. Supporters say it further supports the churchs belief that God made man and woman for marriage, and same-sex attraction is a sin.

The move comes amid tensions over the issue in churches across the country. The policy, which Bishop Edward Malesic and Chancellor Vincent Gardiner signed off on, appears in line with the stances of the nations conservative bishops.

That push seems to go against recent statements by Pope Francis, who last month told Jesuit priests that he realized the struggles of homosexual Catholics and that everyone, everyone, everyone is called to live in the church. Never forget that, a Vatican news outlet quoted the pope as saying.

Related story: Pope Francis blasts backwardness of some conservatives in U.S. Catholic church

The Cleveland directive prevents students and staff from undergoing gender-affirming care and using pronouns different than those affiliated with a persons biological sex. It also requires church or school staff members to tell the parents of a child who might be transgender.

In a statement, the diocese said: It has taken existing guidance and practice in matters of sex, sexuality and gender identity and developed them into a formal policy, rooted in scripture and Church teaching, to help ensure that these matters are addressed in a consistent, pastorally sound and authentically Catholic manner across our diocesan and parish institutions and schools.

Brian Clites, a professor of religious studies and gender studies at Case Western Reserve University, said the policy in Cleveland and in similar cities is consistent with the broader culture wars within Americas Catholic Church.

Theres a real disconnect right now between the beliefs and practices of everyday Catholics and the pronouncements of conservative bishops who are sometimes called traditionalist bishops, Clites said.

I think Francis is weary of it. He has asked them to pull back that rhetoric. But the way the Catholic Church is set up, bishops and cardinals have a degree of autonomy, especially for issues that arent prominent enough to be taken up by the Vatican on a global level.

The issue in Cleveland, however, has disappointed at least one priest, who says the policy contradicts Jesus teaching. The priest, who spoke to cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer on the condition of anonymity, said he learned of the policy when it was emailed to priests, deacons, ministers and religious education leaders earlier this month.

On the one hand, (the policy) affirms what the Catholic Church teaches, the priest said. But on the other hand, there are many things that the Catholic Church has taught over the centuries that we no longer teach anymore.

He cited several examples.

We used to teach that it was a sin to eat meat on Friday; we dont teach that, he said. There was a document that said that Black people dont have souls. We dont teach that anymore. There was a time when the church defended slavery. We dont do that anymore.

The issue reaches far beyond Cleveland. The policy here is similar to the Diocese of Des Moines, Iowa, which has a Gender Identity Guide and Policies, and the Diocese of Worcester, Massachusetts, which also implemented rules for its schools.

Titled Catholic Education and the Human Person, the Worcester policy was approved by Bishop Robert McManus in late June and sent to Catholic schools to incorporate into student handbooks beginning this fall. The diocese formally announced its implementation in August.

While some schools had policies in place, others did not. Individual situations were arising that underscored a need for a single policy which that states church teaching and provides consistent application of that teaching across all our schools, David Perda, superintendent of Catholic schools for the Worcester diocese, said in a statement.

Clites said that historically, more cosmopolitan areas and larger cities have had more resources and inclusive rhetoric regarding LGBTQ Catholics.

In Los Angeles, during the 1980s, then-Archbishop Roger Mahony called for LGBTQ people to gather and pray, which subsequently led to the creation of the Catholic Ministry with Lesbian and Gay Persons.

The ministry, which remains active, helps LGBTQ people and their families on their faith journey by speaking at schools, offering parent support groups and helps connect LGBTQ Catholics to affirming spaces.

In Ohio, the Diocese of Toledo has a policy similar to Clevelands. It has dedicated a resource portal on its website with a policy for gender-related matters. Its website says that the Catholic Church encourages individuals to accept their own bodies and gender as they were created.

As Catholics, we dont run or hide from these issues, Bishop Daniel Thomas said in a video statement online. We dont pretend that they dont exist, but instead we reach out with love, compassion, charity and the truth of the Gospel to help our brothers and sisters respond to the call of the reality and beauty of the human body and human sexuality as created by God.

The Diocese of Steubenville confirmed that it has a school policy in place on issues of sexuality and gender identity, but it chooses not to make it public at this time, according to Dino Orsatti, the dioceses director of communications.

The Diocese of Columbus declined to provide a statement or interview.

The Archdiocese of Cincinnati did not respond to requests for interviews or statements from cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer.

Justin Huyck, director of communications for the Diocese of Youngstown, said its theological commission has studied and will continue to study this important question, drawing upon the wisdom of Pope Francis, the tradition of the Church and the pastoral needs of our families and all Gods people.

Last month, Pope Francis blasted the backwardness of conservative Roman Catholics across the United States during World Youth Day celebrations in Lisbon.

There is a very strong, organized reactionary attitude, which also structures an emotional belonging, he said, according to published reports. I want to remind these people that going backwards is useless, and we must understand that there is a correct evolution in the understanding of questions of faith and morality as long as the three criteria that I have already indicated are followed.

La Civilta Cattolica, a news outlet that says it has reflected the mind of the Vatican since 1850, quoted the pontiff in a talk with Jesuits last month.

It takes a lot of sensitivity and creativity to accompany people spiritually and pastorally, Pope Francis said. But everyone, everyone, everyone is called to live in the church. Never forget that.

He also brought up a nun who works with transgender Catholics. She asked whether she could bring them to an audience with the pope.

Sure, why not? the pope said.

The first time they came, they were crying. I was asking them why. One of them told me, I didnt think the pope would receive me! Then, after the first surprise, they made a habit of coming. Some write to me, and I email them back. Everyone is invited! I realize that these people feel rejected, and it is really hard.

Hannah Drown, a reporter with cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer, contributed to this story.
Rotunda Rumblings

Start/stop: Ohios latest round of state legislative redistricting hit an early speed bump, as Wednesdays Ohio Redistricting Commission meeting ended early thanks to infighting by Statehouse Republican leaders over who the GOP co-chair of the commission should be. As Jeremy Pelzer reports, one of House Speaker Jason Stephens top allies was expected to be co-chair, but Senate President Matt Huffman  whos expected to challenge Stephens for speaker in 2025  objected. Its unclear whether the issue will be resolved by the time the commission is scheduled to meet again on Friday.

Redistricting roundup: Prior to Wednesdays redistricting meeting, Pelzer laid out what to expect from the renewed redistricting process, which will redraw the states 99 state House districts and 33 state Senate districts. That includes the incentives and disincentives for Republicans (who dominate the redistricting process) to pass a plan that further expands their legislative supermajorities, and the possibility that required public-comment hearings may, at least in part, be held online.

Everyone gets a star: The Ohio Department of Education is expected to release the Ohio School Report Cards mid-morning Thursday, with overall ratings for each district and school for the first time in three years since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Instead of giving A-F letter grades, the overall grades will be one to five stars, given in half-star increments, Laura Hancock reports. Although the report cards arent out, recent Ohio State University research shows that in English Language Arts, most schools and districts have returned to pre-pandemic scores. Test scores still lag in math. For Black, Hispanic and urban subgroups, scores are lagging in both English and math.

Jordan spearheads impeachment: U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan, a Champaign County Republican who vocally defended former President Donald Trump when the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives impeached him over his Ukraine activities and his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol, will play a key role in the impeachment inquiry of President Joe Biden that House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced on Monday, Sabrina Eaton reports. McCarthy said the inquiry will be led by Jordans committee, as well as the House Oversight and Reform Committee and Ways and Means Committee. If the committees find grounds for impeachment, Jordans Judiciary Committee would draft and vote on any articles of impeachment that would be referred to the full House of Representatives for a vote.

School districts: Huffman told reporters Wednesday that he favors legislation to no longer tie State Board of Education district lines to legislative districts. I think there should probably be a separation between those state school district lines and the legislative lines so it doesnt look like somehow thats being affected by the decisions on the other side, he said. Huffman said one potential change could be to make state board district lines permanent, but he said hes open to suggestions. Theres a lot of different ways to do it, he said. The State Board of Education has been stripped of much of its power under the new state budget passed earlier this summer.

Out of the race: Former Ohio Republican Party Chairman Jane Timken wont be making a run for Congress next year. Timken, who ran unsuccessfully in the GOP primary for U.S. Senate in 2022, had rumored interest in running for Ohios 13th Congressional District seat. But she posted on social media on Wednesday that she had decided against a run for the seat currently occupied by U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes, a Democrat.

The price of freedom: FreedomWorks, a conservative policy group that helped launch the tea party movement, is attempting a major makeover, Politico reports. The organization headed by Brecksville native Adam Brandon has decided to transform itself into a more moderate group, one sounding traditionally libertarian notes while pursuing the types of ideological compromise it used to eschew. At the heart of the attempted transformation is research conducted by FreedomWorks that shows suburban independent voters support tolerance and choice, Brandon wrote in a letter to donors.

HHS money: U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes, an Akron Democrat, announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded more than $5 million in grants to organizations in her district. The YWCA of Canton got almost $2.5 million for its Early Head Start- Child Care Partnership, Childrens Hospital Medical Center of Akron got more than $1.8 million for its Childrens Hospitals Graduate Medical Education Payment program, and Oriana House Inc. got $800,000 for its Akron Municipal Recovery Court and Summit County Turning Point Collaborative Drug Court programs.

Union drive: Sykes and U.S. Sen. JD Vance, a Cincinnati Republican, on Wednesday released statements to express solidarity with the states United Auto Workers union members in their contract negotiations with the big 3 automakers, with Sykes urging all sides to come to the bargaining table and negotiate a fair deal that respects the dignity of these workers and provides the pay and conditions they deserve. Vance took a more partisan stance, declaring that Biden policies are destroying the American car industry, and this moment presents an opportunity for UAW leadership to change course. UAW leadership encouraged their membership to vote for the most anti-car president in American history. They cannot now act shocked that Joe Biden is doing exactly as he promised.

Park expansion: GOP U.S. Rep. Mike Turner of Dayton teamed up with Cincinnati Democrat Greg Landsman on Wednesday to introduce bipartisan legislation that would add approximately one acre of land to the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. Both Ohios U.S. Senators have introduced a companion bill in the Senate. A statement from National Aviation Heritage Alliance executive director Mackensie Wittmer said the extra space would be used to welcome local, national, and international visitors with safe and accessible parking.

Fighting wage theft: U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown announced Wednesday that hes introduced legislation called the Wage Theft Prevention and Wage Recovery Act that would fight the problem of employees not being paid for all the hours they work. It includes enhanced penalties for minimum wage and overtime protection violations. If his legislation passes, the Cleveland Democrat said workers could seek redress through the Department of Labor. Weve worked on these kinds of issues for a long time, said Brown. They just didnt get any momentum last time. We think its changed.

Enhanced child tax credit: Brown on Wednesday urged reinstatement of an enhanced child tax credit established in the American Rescue Plan that temporarily gave eligible parents $300 per month for each child under age 6, and $250 for each child ages 6 to 17. During a Capitol Hill press conference, Brown said the families of 2 million Ohio children benefitted from the payments, as did 60 million children nationwide. We did it two years ago, Brown continued. Now we hope the Republicans join us this year in getting it done because it reaches across all party lines.

Video regulation: U.S. Rep. Bob Latta, a Bowling Green Republican who chairs the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, on Wednesday argued for deregulating video streaming instead of imposing archaic 1990s era regulations onto a new and vibrant industry. Latta, who was overseeing a hearing on the state of the video marketplace, said he aims to support viewing choice, while ensuring local broadcast continues to thrive. Todays hearing is just the beginning of this conversation.

Money trouble: A trio of central Ohio Republicans say their campaign treasurer bilked them for cash or filed bad reports. Anna Staver and Jessie Balmert report in The Columbus Dispatch that the Ohio Elections Commission will hear a case Thursday over complaints from state Sen. Stephanie Kunze, former Franklin County Prosecutor Ron OBrien and Franklin County Engineer Cornell Robertson about William Curliss, a longtime Republican treasurer. Kunze says Curliss wrote himself checks from her campaign account, while OBrien and Robertson say he filed inaccurate campaign reports.

Full Disclosure

Here are five things we learned from the May 12, 2023, financial disclosure form filed by state Rep. Nick Santucci, a Warren Republican:

1. In 2022, Santucci made somewhere between $50,000 and $99,999 from working as a consultant with VAZA Consulting, an educational consulting firm.

2. Santuccis investments include stock in Huntington Bank and Farmers National Bank, as well as mutual funds with American Funds and LPL Financial. He also listed having stock in Advisor Client, which is a portal that allows access to TD Ameritrade investment accounts, as well as stock in Acorns, a micro-investing app.

3. At some point in 2022, Santucci owed at least $1,000 to Chase, CapitalOne, and PayPal.

4. He accepted a gift of Ohio State University tickets worth at least $75. He did not state who gave him the tickets.

5. Santucci, who took office in January, was reimbursed a total of $298 for lodging and parking by the non-partisan Legislative Service Commission for its new member orientation.

On The Move

Cameron Garczyk has been named assistant state director for the Ohio chapter of the National Federation of Independent Business. Garczyk most recently worked as NFIB Ohios member benefits program manager; prior to that, he was an aide to then-Ohio House Speaker Ryan Smith and clerk of the Ohio House Finance Committee.

Birthdays

Adriana Gordon, legislative aide to state Rep. Latyna Humphrey

Straight From The Source

I dont know that I can disrespect someone more than J. D. Vance.

- U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney, a Utah Republican, speaking to McKay Coppins of The Atlantic about the junior Republican senator from Ohio. Romney said he was impressed with Vances book Hillbilly Elegy but soured on Vance for reinventing his persona after deciding to run for Senate. Its like, really? You sell yourself so cheap? Romney asked.

Capitol Letter is a daily briefing providing succinct, timely information for those who care deeply about the decisions made by state government. Subscribe to get Capitol Letter in your email box each weekday for free.
COLUMBUS, Ohio  Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose has reached agreement on partnerships to share voter data with three Republican-led states in an attempt to detect possible fraud, months after he pulled out of a bipartisan national system that largely performed the same function.

LaRose, the states top elections official, has entered into agreements with his counterparts in three other states: Florida, Virginia and West Virginia. The agreements, which largely involve sharing voter data to try to detect illegal attempts to double vote or register to vote twice, replace a function previously performed by the Electronic Registration Information Center.

However, unlike ERIC, a bipartisan nonprofit with 27 member states, Republicans run elections in all three states in the new partnerships LaRose announced. Florida is of key importance though, because of the states large population and the significant number of older Ohioans who split time in Florida.

This is a major new development as states look to move beyond the old model of sharing voter data through an unaccountable third-party vendor, LaRose, a Republican, said in a statement. Ohio took the lead on this election integrity project, and its only one aspect of the work were doing to keep our elections honest as we prepare for the next presidential election year.

Ohio, Florida, Virginia and West Virginia are among the eight Republican-led states that have left ERIC since last year, according to the nonpartisan National Conference of State Legislatures. The exodus has occurred as people and groups on the political right, including ex-President Donald Trump, have raised doubts about the groups operations.

Specific concerns include opposing an ERIC bylaw that requires member states to attempt to reach eligible residents to encourage them to register to vote. Critics also have accused the group of sharing sensitive voter information with liberal groups, a baseless claim that the group denies. The groups founder, David Becker, became controversial after leading a separate effort in 2020 to distribute millions of dollars for elections administration  including to LaRoses office  from Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg.

ERIC continues to have a mix of Democratic and Republican members, including states like Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Utah.

Before dropping out, LaRose had been a prominent advocate for ERIC, and one of his top deputies chaired the organization last year. But he withdrew in June, citing the diminishing returns on the states $66,000 membership fee as the group lost members. He cited some of the concerns conservatives had raised, including about Becker, although he did not directly reference the elections conspiracies.

LaRose is running for U.S. Senate in the Republican primary in March, and concerns about elections integrity is a top concern for GOP voters, particularly in light of Trumps false and legally rejected claims that widespread fraud marred the 2020 presidential election.

Officials in LaRoses office said they want to form similar data-sharing partnerships with additional Democratic and Republican-controlled states, including current ERIC members, and expect to announce a more deals with other states in the near future.

Andrew Tobias covers state politics and government for cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer


After the conclusion of the first meeting of the coordination committee held at the residence of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar, leaders of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) have decided to sort out the seat sharing issues at the state level. Wednesday's meeting was attended by Congress leader K.C. Venugopal, RJDs Tejashwi Yadav, JD-Us Sanjay Jha, in place of Lallan Singh, CPIs D. Raja, DMKs T.R. Baalu, PDPs Mehbooba Mufti, Shiv Sena (UBT)s Sanjay Raut, Samajwadi Partys Javed Ali, AAPs Raghav Chadha, JMMs Hemant Soren and NCs Omar Abdullah.



An informed source said that detailed discussions were held on several issues, during which the seat sharing matter also came up.



He said the alliance members decided that the seat sharing issue will be taken care by the leaders at the state level, which needs to be completed by October end.



The matter can then be brought up at the national level to give it it a final shape, the source added.



The source, however, also pointed out that the talks on the issue would require a very complex process in several states, where the seats are already held by the INDIA bloc parties and the parties will not be ready to vacate those seats.



He further said that the process of seat sharing will take time to complete and we are hopeful that it will be done ambicly.



Besides seat sharing, the committee also discussed the skyrocketing prices, unemployment and corruption of the BJP.



Meanwhile, some of the participants also highlighted DMK leader Udhaynidhi Stalin's remark on Sanatana Dharma and asked the party to refrain from making such comments.



They further pointed out that the issue has snowballed in several states where the BJP is using it to target the INDIA parties.



Other topics of discussion included joint public meetings across the countrym, while the bloc leaders also agreed upon caste census.



At the third meeting of the alliance on August 31 and September 1 in Mumbai, Trinamool Congress supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had objected to the caste census.



At that meeting, the bloc had formed the 14-member coordination committee.



The CPI-M is yet to name a party leader for the committee.






Cannasouth Limited (NZX: CBD ) has exported to Australia its first commercial shipment of its high-purity cannabidiol (CBD) isolate, a cannabis-based, active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). This is a first for Aotearoa New Zealands medicinal cannabis industry.

This CBD isolate was manufactured in New Zealand to PIC/s Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and verified by the Medicinal Cannabis Agency. This first shipment is the forerunner of greater volumes of API exports for the local industry, signalling the demand for high-quality, GMP certified cannabis-based APIs on the international stage.

This signals the next growth phase for Cannasouth and the medicinal cannabis industry.

-ENDS-

NZX MAP_CBD_First API Export

Comments from our readers

No comments yet

Add your comment:

Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process.

Related News:

General Capital Subsidiary Director Resignation

Arvida Bank Facility Update

BFG - Capital Return - Interim Orders Received

CHI - Exchange Mechanism of CHI010 notes for CHI030 bonds

CHI - Channel launches retail bond offer

October 30th Morning Report

AGL - Accordant Group - Half Year Financial Performance

CBD - Successful Verification for Oral Solution Products

Spark Finance extends Westpac Sustainability-Linked Loan

General Capital (GEN:NZX) Subsidiary General Finance Update


Another American fighter set a record for hours and years of continuous service. In this case it was an F-15E fighter-bomber based in Britain which set the new record for flight hours. This F-15E has served for 31 years and flown 10,000 hours during over 4,100 sorties. Thats an average of 332 flight hours a year since 1992.

The F-15E entered service in 1989 and, within a decade, Russia decided this novel fighter-bomber design was worth emulating. Russia developed its own F-15E, the 45-ton Su-34, which was yet another variant of the 33-ton Su-27. Su-34s cost $36 million each (less than half the cost of an F-15E) and include a full set of defensive and offensive sensors (radars, targeting cameras, laser designators) and electronic warfare gear, and can carry eight tons of missiles and smart bombs. Although development work began in the late 1990s, the Su-34 did not enter service until 2014 and proved capable in Syria, but vulnerable in 2022 when the Su-34 had to face its first airborne threat and combat losses in Ukraine.

Meanwhile, the older F-15s, which entered service in 1976, are falling apart. In 2009 the air force retired the last of its 384 F-15A fighters. Long flown only by reserve units, these were old aircraft and all built in the 1970s. Air force reserve units got the F-15As in the 1980s and 1990s, as active-duty units got the new F-15C. But by 2009 the F-22 was entering service, and more F-15Cs were going to the reserves. Many of those F-15As flew for over 30 years.

Unfortunately, the later model F-15s are not aging well. In 2007 the air force grounded all of its 442 remaining F-15As and Cs (and the smaller number of two-seat B and D trainer models) for 18 days, then grounded them again, all because of suspicions that portions of the aircraft structure have been weakened by stress (lots of maneuvering during combat training).

Before that, the air force halted non-critical flights of its F-15C (the interceptor version) fighters after a National Guard F-15C crashed. It appeared that the crash was the result of structural failure. In 2002 an F-15C traveling at high (over 2,000 kilometers an hour) speed crashed when its left tail fin broke off. At the time the F-15Es operating in Afghanistan were not grounded initially, but soon were when it was realized that the problem might be a design flaw, not age, that caused the 27-year-old F-15C to go down. The F-15Es were restored to flight status after about a week, once each aircraft had undergone an extensive structural examination that took about 13 man-hours each. Most F-15Es were less than ten years old. But some F-15Cs were over twenty years old.

This time around, the F-15Es were not grounded, because metal stress in the older F-15s would not occur in the F-15E, which is somewhat different in its internal structure and was designed to avoid the fatigue problems the F-15A and C models encountered. Structural failure is more common in older fighters that have lots of flight hours (over five thousand) on them. When originally designed, the F-15 was believed to have a service life of only 4,000 hours, but new materials and design techniques increased that to 8,000. In peacetime, F-15s are in the air 250-300 hours a year. But because of the 1991 Gulf War, the 1990s "no-fly-zone" patrols over Iraq, and then operations after 2001, the F-15 fleet piled up the hours more quickly and many reached the 8,000-hour mark much more rapidly than planned.

The F-15E faced a similar problem as it was used far more after 2001 because of the war on terror. Peacetime use was no more than a few hundred flight hours a year. Under wartime conditions the popular and versatile F-15E flew 500 to 1,000 hours a year. While the F-15E wasnt engaging in violent maneuvers it was regularly carrying heavy bomb loads and these stressed the airframe. Thats why the more recent F-15Es ended up as worn out as the older F-15Cs. Most of the F-15Cs are used as interceptors to defend the continental United States plus Hawaii, Alaska and some overseas areas where a lot of American troops were based.

The stressed structural components have long been a problem. If weak components are detected, they can be replaced with stronger ones, made of materials not available when the F-15 was originally built. But you want to find the weak components before they fail. While scanning technology has improved, it's still not good enough to detect all the F-15 components possibly weakened by years of use. As a result, flying an F-15C became a bit more stressful from then on. To some in the air force, this situation has a bright side. One can now make a more compelling case to build more F-22s, to replace F-15 that are wearing out faster than expected. That did not happen and the delays in getting the F-35 into mass production kept the idea of designing an improved F-15 to fill the gap. Because of that, the new F-15EX was not a recent idea but the accumulation of proposals that have been showing up for over a decade.

Another area that is getting a lot more attention from engineers than journalists is the impact of heavy and sustained stress on combat aircraft. This component failure problem is not unique to the F-15 and has been occurring with increasing frequency among aging fighter aircraft all over the world. The end of the Cold War in 1991 led to the cancellation of many combat aircraft replacement programs. Air forces were compelled to make do with thousands of increasingly older aircraft. Whenever an aircraft goes down because of a structural failure, you have to ground all planes of that type until you know exactly what caused the loss, and make any needed repairs to other aircraft of that type. Pilots are a pretty sharp lot, so governments don't dare try to play games with this. If the pilots suspect they are being set up to fly dodgy aircraft, they will not fly them, or not fly them in a useful (stressful) way.

Meanwhile, the F-15E continues in service and demonstrates how well an updated F-15 design can work. But the production of the F-15E is scheduled to end by 2023 and the EX keeps F-15 production going as a more advanced F-15E. This willingness to produce the EX should not be a surprise as there have been signs for a long time that an updated F-15 would be useful. As of 2008 the air force planned to operate its 36-ton U.S. F-15E for at least another ten years, and probably longer. In service for twenty years now, the F-15E can carry up to 11 tons of bombs and missiles, along with a targeting pod and an internal 20mm cannon. It's an all-weather aircraft that can fly one-way up to 3,900 kilometers. It uses in-flight refueling to hit targets anywhere on the planet. Smart bombs made the F-15E particularly efficient. The back seater handles the electronics and bombing, and the F-15E remains a potent air-superiority fighter, making it an exceptional combat aircraft. This success prompted Israel, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Singapore and Qatar to buy it, paying about $100 million per aircraft. In the U.S. Air Force, the F-15E is one of the most popular aircraft for combat pilots to fly, even more so than the new F-22. The F-15EX is cheaper to operate, carries more bombs and can also carry the new hypersonic missile, which is too heavy for any other fighter and was designed to be launched from heavy bombers. With the F-15EX the air force has a lot more aircraft that can handle the hypersonic missile.

After two years of testing the U.S. Air Force has found that its new F-15EX fighter exceeds expectations in terms of number and tonnage of weapons carried. The F-15EX has been tested carrying and launching up to 12 air-to-air missiles. Previously the most missiles carried suspended from the wings was eight and six was more common. The F-15EX can carry up to 13.6 tons of weapons, more than any other F-15 model. After a year of flight testing the first deliveries were made to fighter squadrons. Up to 140 F-15EX aircraft are to be delivered in the next few years. Initially squadrons that perform air defense missions in the United States will receive these aircraft. The F-15EX is cheaper to buy and operate than the F-35 and, for missions that do not depend a lot on stealth, the F-15EX is cheaper and more capable. New versions of the F-35 close that gap but for now the F-15EX is here and the new F-35A Block 4 models have been delayed because of problems with new software. That has halted efforts to reduce the F-15EX orders from 140 to 80. The F-15EX has met or exceeded all its capabilities.

In early 2021 the air force received the first eight F-15EX fighter-bombers it ordered in mid-2020 for $150 million each. This is an upgraded F-15E that will replace elderly F-15Es that will soon have to be retired or flown a lot less because of heavy use during the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq,. The initial eight F-15EX were used for testing and verifying that all the new capabilities worked as expected. That proved to be the case. This was remarkable for a new aircraft that first flew in February 2021, and was delivered so quickly because the manufacturer had been developing variants of the F-15E for several foreign customers that included some of the new features in the F-15EX. For example, the EX will have an improved EPAWSS (Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System) which provides radar warning of enemy radar signals, including a display showing what the threat is and where it is coming from. There are automatic and pilot activated counter-measures like jamming or spoofing (modifying the return signal of enemy radar transmissions). EPAWSS is smaller than previous systems and was designed to be easily upgraded for new threats. The EX also has a new glass cockpit using touch displays to provide aircraft information and enable quick response by the pilot. Digital cockpits have been around for several decades and undergone steady improvement based on user experience. EX also has a new ADCAP II mission computer to ease the work burden on the pilot as well as fly-by-wire flight controls for the mechanical aspects of the aircraft. All this enables the single-seat F-15EX to perform the same bomber functions as the two-seat F-15E and carry 14 tons of weapons including the new hypersonic missile. Initial F-15EXs will have two seats but use only one pilot. This is a 37-ton (max takeoff weight) aircraft that weighs only a ton more than the F-15E. What makes the EX worth the cost is because it is built to last for 20,000 flight hours at a cost of $29,000 per hour. This is one third the operational cost of the F-35, which costs about $100 million each.

Ultimately the air force wanted to buy as many as 400 F-15EXs to replace retiring F-15Cs and Es. The entire program is supposed to cost no more than $23 billion and deliver new F-15EX aircraft at a cost of about $88 million each. That fixed price is still in force for production models even though the air force is only committed to buying 144 F-15EXs initially.

The original F-15 entered service in the 1970s and the last one was built in 1989. The two-seat F-15E fighter-bomber entered service in 1989 and only 236 were built over the next 15 years. After that new models of the F-15E were developed and built for export customers. These included Singapore, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Qatar and Israel. All have entered service except the Qatar and Israeli models. The Qatari F-15QA made its first flight in April 2020 and the F-15EX is based on the QA which Qatar is buying 36 of.

As of early 2019 the U.S. Air Force planned to buy two models of the new F-15; the single seat F-15CX fighters to complement the new F-35 and (unofficially) make up for the fact that the air force is not getting as many F-35s as it believes it needs. There were to be a smaller number of two-seat F-15DX. Normally the two-seat version is for training but in this case the EX-version provides the option to provide a GIB (Guy in the Back) to help with the use of the F-15EX as a bomb truck for F-35s and F-22s. The air force soon realized that the improved flight and weapons control systems in the F-15EX enabled all of them to operate with only one pilot on board, so it may eventually be built as a one-seat aircraft. The F-22 and F-35, have demonstrated the ability to remain silent (few radio and radar transmissions) while finding and identifying targets while using less stealthy aircraft (or missile units on the ground) to launch weapons at new targets. Israeli F-35s, the only ones with combat experience, have already demonstrated this technique over Syria. The problem is, when flying in full-stealth mode the F-35 can carry only 2.6 tons of bombs and missiles internally. It became obvious that an F-15EX carrying more weapons and receiving targeting information from a stealthy F-35 would be very useful.

The air force soon realized it could save a lot of money on development by just buying two-seater F-15EX models. Basing this aircraft on the existing F-15QA saved a lot of time and development costs. Because of this the first F-15EX order was placed in record time, the first of these were flying as planned in early 2021 and they were able to enter service by late 2022 or early 2023. A growing number of the elderly F-15Cs and overworked F-15Es will be grounded unless replaced or put through an expensive refurbishment. It is more cost-effective to go with the F-15EX.

Theres another factor. On paper, the F-35 will eventually (5-10 years) become cheaper to maintain and operate than the F-15C. The F-15EX will have a cost advantage immediately because as a new aircraft it is cheaper to operate than an older model, and EX also use new tech that reduces maintenance costs. The manufacturer is willing to produce them at a fixed cost (about $88 million each) and absorb any unforeseen costs. The manufacturer has additional incentives to make the F-15EX work; export sales.
Hassan El Salheen, weeps after burying the repatriated body of his son, Aly, who died along with his three cousins in Libya after Storm Daniel hit the country, at Al Sharief village in Bani Swief province, Egypt September 13, 2023. Mohamed Abd El Ghany | Reuters

At least 11,300 are now believed to have died after torrents of water ripped through eastern Libya  a devastating toll that could largely have been avoided, global officials said Thursday. Marie el-Drese, secretary general of The Libyan Red Crescent, told The Associated Press by phone that a further 10,100 had been reported missing in the ruined city of Derna. Earlier, city officials said the death toll could reach 20,000. A precise tally of the rising number of people killed is incredibly difficult given the level of destruction and the chaotic political situation in the region, with bodies still washing up on the shore and burials being held in mass graves. As rescuers searched underwater and under rubble, fears grew that rotting bodies could lead to a deadly outbreak of disease in the wake of this week's floods.

watch now

Death toll could still soar

A deluge of rainfall from Mediterranean storm Daniel caused two dams to collapse, sending waves more than 20 feet high through the heart of Derna, a port city in the country's east. More than 7,000 residents were wounded, ambulance service spokesman Osama Ali told NBC News. Numbers have varied depending on which official has provided them, though all put the toll well into the thousands and Derna's mayor has said that it could more than triple as search teams and survivors find more bodies in the ruins. "The situation is very large and surprising for the city of Derna. We were not able to confront it with our capabilities that preceded the storm and the torrent," Mayor Abdel Moneim al-Ghaithi told Sky News Arabia on Wednesday night. His office said that the number of those killed could hit 20,000  around a fifth of the city's population  based on estimates of those living in areas that were swept away.

Members of the rescue teams from the Egyptian army carry a dead body as they walk in the mud between the destroyed buildings, after a powerful storm and heavy rainfall hit Libya, in Derna, Libya September 13, 2023. Ahmed Elumami | Reuters

Most of the deaths could have been avoided if authorities had better warning systems in place, the United Nations' weather and climate agency said Thursday. "They could have issued the warnings and the emergency management forces would have been able to carry out the evacuation of the people, and we could have avoided most of the human casualties," Petteri Taalas, head of the World Meteorological Organization, told reporters in Geneva according to the AFP news agency. The agency said this week that it issued warnings 72 hours before the dams collapsed, including contacting the Libyan authorities and making statements to the media. This led to a state of emergency being declared in the North African country.

A view shows a damaged car, following a powerful storm and heavy rainfall hitting the country, in Derna, Libya September 13, 2023. Esam Omran Al-fetori | Reuters

One day before the storm hit Libya, the mayor said at a news conference that some areas surrounding the dam should be evacuated. But an emergency committee formed by the eastern government's Interior Ministry ordered curfews instead. A spokesperson for the mayor also said out the city's dam had not been maintained since 2008 because of Libya's fractious politics. Mohamed Manfi, president of the Presidential Council of Libya, said Thursday on X, the social network formerly known as Twitter, that the country's public prosecutor would open an investigation into any possible negligence that contributed to the disaster. As some seek to find who to blame for the catastrophe, a humanitarian disaster is also unfolding for survivors. More from NBC News: House passes bill to improve wildfire prevention accountability after NBC News report

Threats mount against prosecutors and FBI agents working on Hunter Biden probe

Social Security COLA increase for 2024 could be higher than expected Fears are rising of waterborne disease affecting the area, especially with rotting bodies still washing ashore. "Access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene facilities will be required to prevent a further crisis within a crisis," Elie Abouaoun, country director for Libya at the International Rescue Committee, said in a statement Wednesday. Around 30,000 people from Derna are displaced, according to the International Organization for Migration, a U.N. agency. Satellite imagery has shown the sheer scale of the destruction wrought by the floods. A government official estimated Wednesday that 25% of the city was completely destroyed or washed away. Rescue teams from neighboring Egypt and Tunisia have arrived, alongside crews from Turkey, Italy and elsewhere.

Maxar satellite imagery after the catastrophic flooding that struck the Libyan coastal city of Derna. Maxar | Maxar | Getty Images

But their efforts have been hampered by destroyed roads, as well as the interruption of power and communications in the city. Othman Abduljaleel, the eastern Libyan government's health minister, said divers were searching seawaters off Derna. In accordance with Islamic tradition, in which bodies are buried as soon as possible, more than 3,000 have already been placed in mass graves, he said. The hope of finding survivors has all but faded as a colossal cleanup and recovery operation begins.

People look at the dead bodies outside the hospital, after a powerful storm and heavy rainfall hit Libya, in Derna, Libya September 12, 2023. Esam Omran Al-Fetori | Reuters



The Tripoli Public Services Company began clearing rubble in Derna's previously densely populated center Wednesday in an operation running round the clock, the state-run Libyan News Agency reported. Its staff members are divided into three teams: one to remove rubble that may have trapped victims, one to pump out stagnant standing water and one to reopen paths by removing fallen buildings and cars swept away by the floods. The enormous task of providing immediate aid and then rebuilding Derna is complicated by the legacies of a decade of civil conflict, which has left two rival governments ruling eastern and western Libya. Derna is controlled by the Libyan National Army, run by Field Marshal Khalifa Hifter and based in the eastern city of Tobruk. The rest of the country is run by the Government of National Unity based in the capital, Tripoli, in the west.

A view of devastation in disaster zones after the floods caused by the Storm Daniel ravaged the region, on September 11, 2023, in Derna, Libya. Anadolu Agency | Getty Images

This split has hampered reconstructions efforts for years  though aid workers say both sides are now talking to each other. "Both governments have reached out to the international community requesting services and help," Tauhid Pasha, of the International Organization for Migration, told BBC Radio on Wednesday night. "The Government of National Unity has extended its support to us and its request on behalf of the entire country and they are also coordinating with the government in the east," he said.


There are many reasons for Yemens multiple economic and political problems, of which the clearly dominant one is its epic level of corruption. Corruption worldwide is monitored and measured in the annual Transparency International Corruption Perception Index. The Index measures corruption on a 1 (most corrupt) to 100 (not corrupt) scale. The nations with the lowest scores are currently Yemen (score of 17). Syria (13), South Sudan (13) and Somalia (12). The least corrupt nation is currently Denmark, with a CPI of 90, followed by Finland and New Zealand, each with 87. Nations with the most corruption tend to be poor and chaotic. The opposite applies to nations with low levels of corruption. Yemen has been identified as a chronic and long term victim of corruption.

One side effect of the chaos and corruption is the absence of a public health system. That means children do not receive vaccines for common, and sometimes fatal childhood diseases like measles. The disease had been eliminated in nations with a nation-wide health system that makes it possible vaccinate enough (often all) children to eliminate certain diseases, like measles. Worldwide there are many nations where measles persists because too many children are not vaccinated. Measles is sometimes fatal for the unvaccinated and so far this year 60 Yemeni children a month have died from measles. Even more children die each from a cholera epidemic that started in 2016 and continues.

Most of the Islamic terrorists in Yemen belong to AQAP (Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula) or the much smaller and more violent ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant). Both Islamic terror groups operate in the south and east. AQAP sometimes cooperates with southern separatists. AQAP and most southerners are Sunni Moslems while the rebels are Shia. Most southerners just want peace and some prosperity. There are enough devoted separatists in the south to provide sanctuaries and support for AQAP.

Yemen has Saudi Arabia to thank for the decline in weapons smuggling over the last year. The Saudis were subject to years of Shia rebel attacks on Saudi targets using cruise and ballistic missiles smuggled in by Iran. This was expensive for Iran and getting more difficult and expensive because of increased anti-smuggling efforts,

A major reason for rebels agreeing to a ceasefire was a decline in Iranian support due to lack of funds plus unrest at home. The Iranian weapons, cash, advisors and smuggling network supercharged the Shia rebels, enabling them to keep fighting the more numerous and better armed force arrayed against them. Iran has been openly supporting the Shia rebels since 2014 and later admitted that less visible support had been supplied since 2011.

Information based on interceptions by American and other warships in the naval blockade of rebel-controlled coastlines indicates that Iranian smuggling of weapons to the rebels continues but at a lower intensity, and consists mainly of infantry weapons rather than cruise and ballistic missiles used to attack Saudi Arabia. The Saudis are negotiating directly with the Iranians about the fighting in Yemen and how to reduce it. This is part of an effort, brokered by the Chinese, to improve relations between the Saudis and Iran and reduce the tensions in the Persian Gulf and Yemen.

All this smuggling cost Iran a lot of money, both for the smuggled cargos and personnel including shipyard technicians to modify the boats to carry smuggled cargo. The crews of these boats are also well paid for the risks of getting caught and jailed. Iran has been short of cash since economic sanctions were revived in 2020 and increased in 2022 because of Iran support for Russian forces in Ukraine. There were also higher costs for preparing the boats and bonuses for the crews limiting the amount of smuggled cargo that reaches the Yemen rebels. Those expenses were one of the reasons for the nationwide anti-government protests which began in September 2022 and continue. The IRGC (Islamic Republic Guard Corps), which guards the religious dictatorship that has ruled Iran since the 1980s, also handles Irans many foreign wars including Yemen, Syria, Lebanon, Gaza and now Ukraine. Iran controls the leadership of the Yemen rebels, in large part because Iran supplies weapons. With that weapons pipeline disrupted during the last three months, the rebels responded by observing a ceasefire with their many opponents.

IRGC leaders were reluctant to give up gains made in Yemen and are unsure when or if they can revive support for the Yemeni Shia because of the growing economic sanctions on Iran as well as the demands of supporting Russia in Ukraine. Because of the sanctions imposed in 2017, the Quds force saw its budget cut by half ever since. This meant major reductions in Quds activities in Iraq, Syria and Lebanon.

Yemen was always the least expensive Quds operation and did not suffer noticeable aid cuts after 2017. Yemen was the only IRGC operation that was able to attack arch-enemy Saudi Arabia directly and that counted for something. The Yemen operation was allowed to continue. This was only possible if the smuggled weapons from Iran kept getting through. The Iranian weapons smuggling has now been greatly reduced. This sharply limits Irans ability to directly attack Saudi Arabia by arming Shia rebels in Yemen. The Shia rebels in Yemen received over a thousand ballistic missiles and UAVs between 2016 and 2021. Most of these were aimed at southwestern Saudi Arabia. Less than one percent of those UAVs and missiles hit anything of consequence in Saudi Arabia. Iran sought to carry out a similar campaign against Israel using Iran-backed militias in Syria. That hasnt worked so far because Israeli intelligence capabilities and airstrikes have been much more effective in Syria than Saudi efforts in Yemen, despite the facts that Israel and Saudi Arabia have similar aircraft, smart bombs and air defense systems.

Iranian smuggling efforts have been less effective over the last few years because the international naval blockade has been detecting and intercepting more of the Iranian smuggling efforts. The Saudis had already put a stop to cross country smuggling via Oman. The Iranians have not tried to revive it, in part because Oman has backed the halt to Iranian smuggling.

It wasnt just weapons smuggling the Saudis helped stop. There was the khat produced in Yemen and smuggled into Saudi Arabia. Khat production has been a major problem for Yemen as well as the Saudis. Much of the Yemeni agricultural crisis is caused by the fact that Yemen's economic situation has been rapidly deteriorating since the late 20th century. This is largely because the government has done nothing to address the problems of overpopulation, water shortages and Khat. The last item is a narcotic plant that is chewed fresh, requires a lot of water to grow and is worth a lot of money in Saudi Arabia where it is illegal and has to be smuggled in. While Yemen contains most of the only arable land in the Arabian Peninsula, only one percent of Yemen is suitable for agriculture. Rather than produce food, most of the agriculture production is Khat and nearly all of that is smuggled into Saudi Arabia. In the last year Saudi Arabia has increased its efforts to halt the smuggling and that has had some success in disrupting the smuggling. During the first half of 2023, 26 tons of Khat and a ton of the more potent, as a narcotic, Hashish was seized and destroyed before it could get to Saudi Arabia. The Hashish is a concentrated form of cannabis, produced by removing the sticky resin, which is the most narcotic portion of the cannabis plant. Put simply, Khat is for relaxing while Hashish will get you high and largely unable to function. Saudi Arabia bans both Khat and Hashish as harmful to the welfare of the population. Most of the Khat and Hashish is consumed by young (adolescent and early 20s) Saudi males and expatriate workers. Alcoholic beverages are specifically banned by Islamic scripture while Khat and Hashish are not. Alcoholic beverages are bulkier and leave a scent of alcohol on your breath while Khat and Hashish do not. Khat and Hashish do have harmful side effects as they reduce inhibitions and the ability to safely operate vehicles or machinery of any kind. While the Saudi border guards are seizing more Khat and Hashish from Yemen, some always get through and most of the customers in Saudi Arabia can afford to pay more when supplies are short.

September 11, 2023: In the south (Aden) the government is having problems with illegal Ethiopian migrants who are fleeing the civil war in Ethiopia. Yemen, like many other Arab states, has made arrangements to return illegal migrants who are discovered and arrested. Such an arrangement exists with the Ethiopian government. The problem is that the Ethiopian government will not accept Ethiopian refugees who are from areas that are rebelling against the Ethiopian government. When the banned Ethiopians learned that they would not be returned but would not be released from custody, some became violent and that left some people dead or wounded. The angry refugees also blame the people smuggling gangs who charge each refugee a large fee to take care of transportation and deal with border guards. The smugglers do not offer refunds if the refugees are caught and taken into custody. Yemen is a primary entry point for many refugees from Africa. Currently about 40,000 refugees are stranded in Yemen, often for several years. The majority are from Somalia and Ethiopia and willing to take free transport (by air) to their home countries. The smuggling route crosses the Gulf of Aden, which means a 750-kilometer voyage by boat to get to Yemen. This is short enough for small cargo and fishing boats to easily travel back and forth. For thousands of years there has been sea traffic on this route and over the last few decades that has involved more smuggling, usually of drugs and illegal migrants from Somalia or Ethiopia. The people smugglers typically overload boats for the two-day voyage across the Gulf and in a typical year hundreds of refugees are lost at sea. The people smuggling business changed after 2014 as the Iran backed Yemen Shia rebels, normally outnumbered, and outgunned by the government forces, took advantage of the post 2011 revolution to start a civil war to put a pro-Iran government in power. This disrupted the people smuggling operations because Saudi Arabia and its allies enforced a naval blockade on Yemen to stop Iranian from smuggling in weapons. The blockade often turned back the people smuggler boats after arresting the smugglers on board to gain more information on the smuggling gangs. Some illegals still got to Yemen but the Saudis had increased security on their border with Yemen. That meant most of the refugees, except those who could afford a more expensive detour, were stuck in Yemen. That situation worsened in 2020 when covid19 restrictions further limited the movement of illegal migrants into Saudi Arabia. While most foreigners had already fled Yemen, the Somali refugees in Yemen were giving up on the efforts to go north and seeking ways to get back to Somalia. In 2015 there were over 300,000 Somalis in Yemen, most of them there illegally. Foreigners, particularly illegal migrants, became a target in Yemen during the civil war because that conflict prevented Yemeni people smugglers from moving their clients north to the oil-rich Arab states and beyond. The most hospitable and accessible refuge for Somalis in Yemen was Somalia. So far most of the Somalis stuck in Yemen have returned to Somalia despite the continuing violence there. The civil war in Yemen has been a lot deadlier than the al Shabaab violence in Somalia, killing a lot more people and creating a lot more refugees.

August 27, 2023: In the south (Lahij province) Shia rebels clashed with militiamen from the STC and Southern Resistance for three hours. The Shia lost fifteen dead while their opponents lost 19 men.

August 24, 2023: Saudi Arabia denied accusations that their border guards had shot dead hundreds of unarmed Ethiopian refugees trying to cross the border from Yemen to Saudi Arabia. Saudi border guards regularly encounter armed Ethiopian smugglers trying to bring in drugs and alcohol. This usually leads to a gun battle the smugglers usually lose. The Ethiopian are arrested and eventually tried and executed. The penalty for drug smuggling in Saudi Arabia is death by beheading. Each year over a hundred Saudis and foreigners are arrested on drug charges. Using and selling drugs does not lead to beheading but to prison for Saudis and, for many foreigners, expulsion instead of prison. Smugglers are executed by beheading with a large sword. Most Ethiopian smugglers cross the border without being detected, which is why they keep coming and, if detected, often fight to the death. Being captured by the Saudis means you are eventually beheaded.

August 17, 2023: The Iranian foreign minister visited Saudi Arabia to negotiate a peace deal with Saudi Arabia. China negotiated this meeting, which resulted in Iran and Saudi Arabia agreeing to halt attacks on each other. This included the elimination of Iranian support for the Shia rebels in Yemen.

August 14, 2023: UN staff have managed to maintain the ceasefire around the Red Sea port of Hodeidah. This peace deal allows ships carrying foreign aid to unload their cargoes without being shot at by Shia rebels. The aid is loaded on trucks and distributed throughout northern Yemen. The southern port of Aden handles aid shipments to be distributed throughout the south.

August 11, 2023: In the south, five UN staff were released by AQAP after being help captive since early 2022. The STC negotiated with AQAP leaders to arrange for the hostages to be released.

August 10, 2023: In the south (Abyan province) Islamic terrorists ambushed a military convoy with a roadside bomb that killed four military men belonging to the STC (Southern Transitional Council).
U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall does not shy away from commenting on controversy  even as it relates to the world's richest person and a key Department of Defense contractor.

Kendall weighed in Tuesday after SpaceX CEO Elon Musk acknowledged withholding Starlink satellite service to Ukraine as it planned a surprise attack on Russian forces last year. The disclosure sparked criticism of Musk, and Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., called for a probe into SpaceX.

The Air Force works with the company on a variety of missions, such as national security launches, but did not play a role in the use of Starlink in Ukraine when Musk made the decision last September.

"At the time, SpaceX made some unilateral decisions about what to do for Ukraine. They were not on contract to the U.S. ... I think they were definitely donating their services essentially, so they had discretion," Kendall said in an interview with CNBC's Morgan Brennan from the Air Force Association's annual Air, Space & Cyber conference.

The dynamic has since changed. The Pentagon now has a contract with SpaceX for Starlink services in Ukraine.

"We write our contracts to basically ensure that we can get the services we need, as expected from them, and those are enforceable contracts, whatever the business arrangement may be  whether it's individual ownership or a publicly held company. We write agreements with those businesses, they get us what we need at a reasonable cost," said the Air Force secretary.

Follow and listen to CNBC's "Manifest Space" podcast, hosted by Morgan Brennan, wherever you get your podcasts.

The public frenzy, triggered by a revelation in Walter Isaacson's new "Elon Musk" biography, added fuel to an already simmering debate about whether the U.S. government and allies are too reliant on SpaceX and particularly its founder and chief executive  for national security matters.

"SpaceX is an important supplier to the government launch services, and we do buy some communications, and so on," said Kendall. "But we do that through business arrangements that we can enforce."
Days before MGM's computer systems were taken down in a cyberattack, casino operator Caesars paid out a ransom worth $15 million to a cybercrime group that managed to infiltrate and disrupt its systems, sources familiar with the matter told CNBC.

The cybercrime group has made a ransom demand to MGM as well, those sources told CNBC's Contessa Brewer.

There have now been two highly disruptive attacks on the gaming industry in a matter of weeks. Caesars reported its incident in a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filing Thursday morning. The 8-K report, similar to one filed by MGM Resorts on Wednesday, acknowledges the hack as a material event.

The cybercrime group demanded a $30 million ransom from Caesars, but the company ultimately agreed to pay about half that, sources said. The costs will be partially mitigated by Caesars' cyber insurance policies.

But Caesars does not anticipate the ransom payment or fallout will have a material effect on the company's bottom line, according to the filing.

"Although members of the group may be less experienced and younger than many of the established multifaceted extortion and ransomware groups, they are a serious threat to large companies in the United States," Charles Carmakal, chief technology officer at Google Cloud's Mandiant, told CNBC. "Many members are native English speakers and are incredibly effective social engineers."

Bloomberg previously reported the ransom and that the same group is behind the attacks on both companies. The group, known as UNC3944 or Roasted 0ktapus, was also linked to the MGM attack by vx-underground, a widely followed cybersecurity researcher on X, formerly known as Twitter. Security researchers have connected the group to attacks on other companies, including Cloudflare , Okta and Twilio .

SEC rules require that companies file reports within four days of a "material" event. It wasn't immediately clear why Caesars delayed filing the report disclosing the hack and ransom for weeks. The SEC pushed to introduce a new cybersecurity disclosure rule earlier this year, requiring that companies file an 8-K report disclosing the nature of a cyberattack and the effect on its business. That new rule kicks in by year-end.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet headed to Beijing on Thursday on his first official trip abroad since taking office last month in a demonstration of his country's warm relations with China, its closest political and economic ally.

He is expected to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping and other officials on the three-day trip, according to Cambodia's Foreign Ministry. The statement said the two countries' leaders will discuss tightening relations for a shared future with the building of a "Cambodia-China Community," strategic directions for their bilateral relations and regional and international matters.

Cambodia is a key Chinese diplomatic partner and supporter in regional and international forums. It helps dampen criticism of Beijing within the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, several of whose members are engaged in territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea.

China has gained important influence in Cambodian politics and its economy, as seen in the numerous Chinese-funded projects, hotels and casinos in the capital Phnom Penh and elsewhere around the country. China's state banks have financed airports, roads and other infrastructure built with Chinese loans. More than 40% of Cambodia's $10 billion in foreign debt is owed to China.
The Gorgon liquefied natural gas (LNG) and carbon capture and storage (CCS) facility, operated by Chevron Corp., on Barrow Island, Australia, on Monday, July 24, 2023.

Workers at Chevron's two liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects in Australia plan to escalate industrial action from Thursday to anything from a total strike to hours-long work stoppages, their union said, increasing the risk of disrupted output from facilities accounting for over 5% of global supply.

Workers at the Gorgon and Wheatstone facilities have been stopping work briefly for the past six days, after talks with Chevron over wages and working conditions broke down.

The unions had said they would ratchet the pressure on the company from Thursday, possibly by completely stopping work. A union official said they were now going to review what action to take every 12 hours.

Research group EnergyQuest estimated revenue at risk for Chevron and partners from the strikes at about A$76 million ($49 million) per day, though it said not all of that revenue would be lost as some cargoes may be deferred to a later date.

"There is a marked escalation of protected industrial action today, however, it is in various one-hour blocks," said the union official, who declined to be named as he was not authorised to speak with media.

"We are strategically assessing the protected industrial action we need to take every 12 hours and will continue to escalate at times which align with our industrial strategy."

Domestic supplies will not be impacted, the union said.

Chevron had said it would continue to take steps to maintain operations if any disruptions occur, without giving details.

Australia is the world's biggest LNG exporter and its main buyers are in Asia. Traders anticipate any cuts to supplies would send Asian buyers competing with Europeans for cargo, spurring spot price volatility in the European gas market.

Dutch and British wholesale gas prices rose slightly on Wednesday, ahead of the strike escalation.
Employees work on the assembly line of C11 electric SUV at a factory of Chinese EV startup Leapmotor on April 26, 2023 in Jinhua, Zhejiang Province of China. Vcg | Visual China Group | Getty Images

China has accused the European Union of "blatant protectionism" after its executive arm unexpectedly launched an "anti-subsidy" investigation into China's electric vehicle makers. The Chinese Commerce Ministry urged dialogue to safeguard the interests of Chinese companies and commit to global efforts to address climate change and achieve carbon neutrality. "China believes the investigations announced by the European Union in the name of 'fair competition' are actually aimed at protecting its own industries," the ministry said at a regular press conferences Thursday, according to a CNBC translation. "It's a blatantly protectionist act that will seriously disrupt and distort the global  inclusive of the EU automotive industry and supply chain and will have a negative impact on China-EU economic and trade relations," the ministry said.

If the EU finds harm from Chinese subsidies, Brussels is likely to impose tariffs on Chinese EVs despite the risk of political and economic backlash from Beijing. Eurasia Group

The EU's announcement Wednesday marked another escalation in EU-China relations and echoes the impact of robust competition from Chinese companies in Europe's solar industry. In late May, the U.S. and Europe agreed to reduce their dependency on Beijing  but rather than completely cut ties, they agreed to a broader "derisking" move.

"Europe is open to competition but not for a race to the bottom," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Wednesday in her annual State of the Union address at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, while confirming the probe. The commission says an anti-subsidy investigation must impose measures within 13 months from initiation. It also says that provisional measures must be imposed no later than nine months, followed by four months to impose definitive measures if legally warranted.

watch now

"Brussels's willingness to go after a key Chinese export underscores growing protectionist tendencies in Europe, as the EU seeks to compete with China and the US on the green and digital transitions," Eurasia Group analysts wrote in a note on Wednesday. "The EU will largely use trade defenses, given its limited scope to unleash more subsidies and the uneven scope for state aid among EU members," they said. "If the EU finds harm from Chinese subsidies, Brussels is likely to impose tariffs on Chinese EVs despite the risk of political and economic backlash from Beijing." EU members are demanding the regional bloc shield European carmakers from Chinese EVs that they say are heavily subsidized by the Chinese government.
Fulton County Sheriff's officers in front of the Fulton County Courthouse in Atlanta, Georgia, on Sept. 6, 2023.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is responding to violent threats made against officials in Fulton County, Georgia, the agency said in a statement Thursday.

The FBI said it is working with the Fulton County Sheriff's Office but declined to discuss details of ongoing investigations.

"Each and every potential threat brought to our attention is taken seriously," the FBI said in a statement. "Individuals found responsible for making threats in violation of state and/or federal laws will be prosecuted."

Former President Donald Trump and 18 co-defendants were indicted in Fulton County in August for a litany of alleged crimes related to their efforts to overturn Georgia's results in the 2020 presidential election.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who is prosecuting Trump, said in late July that she had received racist threats ahead of her decision to bring charges against the former president.

Trump supporters last month also posted the names and addresses of members of the grand jury that voted to indict the former president on a fringe website that often features violent rhetoric.

Under Georgia law, the names of grand jurors are published as part of criminal indictments. State criminal trials in Georgia are also livestreamed online, in accordance with state transparency laws. It was unclear as of Thursday whether the videotaped trials of Trump and his codefendants would include footage of individual jurors in the courtroom.

Prosecutors and FBI agents investigating President Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, have also been subject to threats by people who believe law enforcement has not come down hard enough on the president's son, NBC News reported this week.

Robert Hur, the special counsel tasked with investigating classified documents discovered at Biden's home and his vice presidential center, has been provided with an armed protective security detail.

Armed protective security details have also been provided to special counsel Jack Smith and federal judges presiding over Smith's two cases against Trump, in Florida and Washington, according to government officials and congressional testimony.
Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, was indicted Thursday on three criminal counts related to his possession of a firearm, a court filing showed.

The charges in U.S. District Court in Delaware came weeks after the unexpected collapse of a deal with federal prosecutors.

Hunter Biden, who has been open about his substance abuse struggles, is charged in two of the counts with lying about his illegal drug use in connection with his purchase of a Colt Cobra revolver. The third count charges him with possession of a firearm by a person who is an unlawful drug user.

The two most serious counts carry maximum sentences of 10 years in prison and $250,000 fines. Actual penalties are often much lower than the statutory maximums.

"We believe these charges are barred by the agreement the prosecutors made with Mr. Biden, the recent rulings by several federal courts that this statute is unconstitutional, and the facts that he did not violate that law, and we plan to demonstrate all of that in court," Abbe Lowell, an attorney for Hunter Biden, told NBC News.

The White House did not respond to initial requests for comment.
Workers produce large building materials and equipment for export to countries along the Belt and Road. Hai 'an city, Jiangsu Province, China, June 15, 2020.

Italy's reported withdrawal plan may set a precedence for a constructive exit from China's global trade and infrastructure initiative, setting the stage for future exits.

Italy remains the only Group of 7 industrialized countries that is a signatory of Beijing's signature Belt and Road Initiative, a centerpiece of President Xi Jinping's foreign policy program that was launched a decade ago.

At a time of shifting geopolitical alignments that's fragmenting the world's economy, Rome is coming under pressure to recast its relationship with Beijing to placate its western allies as Italy assumes the rotating presidency of the Group of 7 developed economies in 2024.

"The thinking in Washington is that if Italy pulls out and does so with a degree of actual collaboration and smiles with Beijing  meaning no informal sanctions and retortions  what this will imply is that other western European countries, perhaps even eastern European countries which make the most of the BRI participants, might be able to pull out," Giulio Pugliese, a lecturer with Oxford University's School of Global and Area Studies, told CNBC's Squawk Box Asia Thursday.
A part of the Trans Alaska Pipeline System runs through boreal forest past Alaska Range mountains near Delta Junction, Alaska. In March, the Biden administration approved the controversial Willow project which will extract 600 million barrels of oil from the National Petroleum Reserve on Alaskas North Slope, close to the Arctic Ocean.

Oil producer group OPEC on Thursday sharply criticized the IEA's forecast that demand for fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas will peak before the end of the decade, describing such a narrative as "extremely risky," "impractical" and "ideologically driven."

The IEA, the world's leading energy watchdog, said Tuesday that the world was now at the "beginning of the end" of the fossil fuel era.

In an op-ed published in the Financial Times, IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said for the first time that demand for coal, oil and gas would all peak before 2030, with fossil fuel consumption then predicted to fall as climate policies take effect. His assessment is based off of the IEA's World Energy Outlook, an influential report which is due out in October.

Birol hailed the forecast as a "historic turning point" but made clear that the projected declines would be "nowhere near enough" to put the world on a path to limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

This temperature threshold is widely regarded as critical to avoid the worst impacts of the climate crisis. The burning of fossil fuels is the chief driver of the climate emergency.

OPEC, a multinational group of mainly Middle Eastern and African nations, published a statement Thursday to outline its objections to the IEA chief's forecast.

"Such narratives only set the global energy system up to fail spectacularly. It would lead to energy chaos on a potentially unprecedented scale, with dire consequences for economies and billions of people across the world," OPEC Secretary General Haitham al-Ghais said.

OPEC said that previous predictions of peak fossil fuel demand had failed to materialize. However, it added that the difference with these forecasts today, "and what makes such predictions so dangerous" was that they were often accompanied by calls to stop investing in new oil and gas projects.

The organization of oil-exporting countries has previously urged the IEA to be "very careful" about undermining industry investments.
Oracle Co-founder Larry Ellison, left, and Microsoft Co-founder Bill Gates watch a match between Gael Monfils of France and Alexander Zverev of Germany during the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Calif., on Oct. 13, 2021.

Larry Ellison, the co-founder, chairman and chief technology officer of Oracle , has been going up against Microsoft in database software for more than 30 years. He has also had to deal with clients looking to connect their Oracle and Microsoft products. But until this week, he had never made the journey to Microsoft's headquarters outside Seattle.

He was in town to appear alongside Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella to announce an expansion of the collaboration between the two companies. Oracle is placing its Exadata hardware, which contains servers for databases and storage, inside the data centers that Microsoft uses to run its Azure public-cloud service for hosting applications.

Organizations will be able to store data with Oracle's database software by using Azure, rather than having to install Oracle hardware in their own data centers or use Oracle's public cloud. Putting the Oracle equipment in Azure data centers means that applications will be able to quickly access data from the databases.

"It was lovely to come up here, said Ellison in a virtual presentation on the announcement, which he teased on Oracle's earnings call with analysts on Monday. "It's actually my first time in Redmond. It's hard to believe. I waited till very late in my career to make this trip."

Nadella conveyed the significance of Microsoft and Oracle working together by bringing up a memory from his early years, before he managed teams building Azure, the Bing search engine and Dynamics sales software. He joined Microsoft from Sun Microsystems in 1992, taking a position as a program manager in the Windows developer relations group.

"When I first came to Microsoft, the first week, they asked me to sort of get ISVs onto Windows NT at that time," Nadella said. "I said, 'There's no way we can get ISVs onto Windows NT first without getting Oracle onto Windows NT.'"

Nadella said the new collaboration might help companies more quickly move their workloads from their existing data centers to the public cloud.

The two companies haven't completely given up their rivalry, though. Oracle and Microsoft will still compete to sell cloud-based infrastructure, but Azure is larger and more mature, and Oracle wants to have customers keep using its products even as they adopt other clouds. And there's nothing stopping longtime Oracle customers from considering Microsoft's databases in Azure.

The tension between the two companies reached a high point in 2000, as Microsoft was in the middle of its hallmark antitrust case against the U.S. Justice Department. Oracle told media outlets that it had hired a detective firm that tried to buy trash from a Microsoft-backed trade group by offering money to janitors working at the group's office in Washington.

Ellison co-founded Oracle in 1977 and is the world's fifth richest person in the world, while Bill Gates, who co-founded Microsoft with Paul Allen in 1975, ranks fourth, according to Bloomberg. But Ellison controls 42% of Oracle's outstanding shares, while Gates owns just over 1% of Microsoft stock, according to FactSet.

WATCH: Microsoft stands to profit a lot from the AI regulatory meeting, says Elevation Partners' McNamee
In this photo is the Madison South Health Center that is owned and operated by Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin.

Planned Parenthood will resume abortions in Wisconsin next week, after a state court ruled that a 174-year-old criminal law does not ban the procedure.

Abortion services will resume on Monday at Planned Parenthood's clinics in Milwaukee and Madison, according to a statement issued Thursday by the organization's Wisconsin chapter. Patients can start booking appointments Thursday, according to the statement.

"In consultation with attorneys, physicians, partners and stakeholders, Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin is confident in our decision to resume abortion care in Wisconsin," Tanya Atkinson, CEO of Planned Parenthood Wisconsin, said in a video statement Thursday.

Planned Parenthood temporarily suspended abortion services in Wisconsin on the same day the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that for nearly 50 years had protected the procedure as a constitutional right.
In this article MAERSK.B-DK Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT

watch now

Copenhagen, DENMARK  Shipping giant Maersk on Thursday presented its first container vessel moved with green methanol, a landmark moment for one of the world's most polluting industries. The new container ship, ordered in 2021, has two engines: one moved by traditional fuels and another run with green methanol  an alternative component, which uses biomass or captured carbon and hydrogen from renewable power. Practically speaking, the new vessel emits 100 tons of carbon dioxide fewer per day compared to diesel-based ships. "It's a really symbolic day of our energy transition, really becoming a reality, something concrete that we can actually demonstrate, not just commitments and hard work, but actually something that everybody can see," Maersk CEO Vincent Clerc told CNBC. This is "the first step for us. But it's the first step for the industry as well. The ship was ordered only in 2021, and she was really the first of its kind. Today, just a couple of years later, we have 125 ships that have been ordered by different companies to actually work on the same technology and the same energy transition. So this ship is really a trendsetter for a whole industry," Clerc said.

The Laura Maersk, Maersk's first green methanol ship, during its naming ceremony in Copenhagen, Denmark, on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images

Evergreen and other shipping firms have ordered similar vessels, though they have less ambitious carbon neutrality targets than Maersk. Shipping accounts for around 3% of global carbon emissions, an amount comparable to major polluting countries. However, decarbonizing the sector has been challenging.

watch now

Denmark's Minister of Industry Morten Bodskov said this is because it is a global industry. Around 90% of the traded goods in the world are carried via ocean shipping, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. "And if you want to make a global agreement, you have to have, I mean, more or less all countries behind the agreement, and then it is a industry in a highly competitive market. That has also been a key factor," Bodskov told CNBC. A so-called shipping tax is a good example of the challenging global conversations on how to accelerate decarbonization efforts. In June, a group of 20 nations supported a plan for a levy on shipping industry emissions. But China, Argentina and Brazil were among the nations pushing back against such an idea. Speaking to CNBC, Maersk's chief said his firm is supportive of such a tax. "We've long advocated the implementation of a carbon tax to really level the playing field and provide the right economic incentives for companies to really lean into the green transition," he said. "I'm worried about the rhetoric that energy transition is a downside and not really a great opportunity," he added.

Supply concerns

This vessel is the first of a wider order of 25 that are due to arrive in 2024. Maersk is looking to become climate neutral by 2040, so these new vessels will be an important part of meeting that deadline and updating its fleet of about 700 ships. However, analysts are worried that Maersk and its competitors might struggle to find enough supply of green methanol. The fuel is scarce and costly to transport. "When I look at the market for these green fuels, methanol is definitely one of the most advanced products out there at the moment. But what I can hear from the industry and from market participants is that the wrap up of methanol, green methanol, it hasn't ramped up very fast," Ulrik Bak, research analyst at SEB, told CNBC on Wednesday.

The methanol-fueled container vessel Laura Maersk sits at anchor in harbour after an official naming ceremony in Copenhagen, Denmark, September 14, 2023. Tom Little | Reuters
Spirit Airlines on Thursday said it will partner with Liberty University, the 10th school that it's working with, to help beef up a pilot training pipeline as the industry continues to face a shortfall of aviators.

The program will allow students pursuing aviation degrees at the university's School of Aeronautics in Lynchburg, Virginia, to apply to the company's pipeline program after completing their sophomore year. Prospective trainees will need a recommendation from a faculty member before being eligible to begin the program.

Students working toward an aviation degree can get conditional job offers as they finish their studies and work on accruing flight hours. They must then complete airline pilot training programs, joining as first officers.

"We put a lot of hard work into developing the Spirit Wings Pilot Pathway Program and assembling a great group of partners making it incredibly rewarding to reach this key milestone," Ryan Rodosta, senior director of flight operations and system chief pilot at Spirit, said in a press release.

Other carriers have also sought to increase their supply of new pilots. U.S. commercial airline pilots can only fly until age 65 under U.S. law. A surge in retirements and buyouts during the Covid-19 pandemic have exacerbated a shortfall, particularly at regional carriers.

JetBlue announced last month that its Gateway Rotor Transition Program will teach U.S.-military trained helicopter pilots to transition to airline pilots. More than 10% of JetBlue's new pilot hires in 2023 are expected to come from one of its Gateway programs, JetBlue said at the time.

In February 2020, United Airlines purchased a flight academy in an effort to hire more than 10,000 new pilots within the decade.

Airlines are incentivized to train new pilots using pipeline programs. U.S. law requires pilots to receive 1,500 hours of training to fly with commercial airlines. Exceptions exist for some, such as U.S. military-trained pilots and those who attend two- and four-year programs that include flight training.
Elon Musk, chief executive officer of Tesla at a Senate bipartisan Artificial Intelligence (AI) Insight Forum on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, US, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023.

Taiwan is "not for sale," and neither is it part of China, said Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a rebuke to Elon Musk who called the island "an integral part of China."

"Listen up, Taiwan is not part of the PRC and certainly not for sale!" Taiwan's minister of foreign affairs, Joseph Wu, said late Wednesday on X, also formerly known as Twitter. PRC refers to the People's Republic of China, the official name of China.

The message was in response to a comment made by Musk during the All-In Summit, which was recently held in Los Angeles.

"I think I understand China well. I've been there many times and have met with senior leadership at many levels ... for many years," Musk said. "I think I've got a pretty good understanding as an outsider of China."

Taiwan has been governed independently of China since the island split from the mainland in a civil war in 1949. Beijing continues to view Taiwan as part of its territory that should be reunited with the mainland, by force if necessary.

Musk, CEO of X, SpaceX, as well as electric car maker Tesla , went on to say: China's policy "has been to reunite Taiwan with China. From their standpoint, maybe it is analogous to Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China."

CNBC could not immediately reach Musk for comment outside office hours.
Here are the biggest calls on Wall Street on Thursday: Bank of America downgrades J.M. Smucker to neutral from buy Bank of America said in its downgrade of the stock that it's purchase of Hostess adds a lot of complexities. "Our prior Buy rating was based on the view that SJM would focus on a more optimized portfolio of core brands, following several years of divestitures of low growth/margin assets. In our view, TWNK would add complexity to SJM's story and introduces execution risk for a company with mixed M & A history." Morgan Stanley reiterates Amazon as overweight Morgan Stanley said it sees Amazon shares with 20-60% upside in the months ahead as retail profitability increases. "We believe management is highly focused on improving efficiency and profitability and demonstrating to investors that their business model can indeed deliver ROI after two challenging years." Wells Fargo reiterates Nvidia as overweight Wells said Nvidia is still in a "league of its own." "We have yet to see a true competitive threat to NVIDIA emerge." JPMorgan reiterates Apple as overweight JPM said recent survey checks show Apple's iPhone share softened ahead of the iPhone 15 launch. "Recent surveys from Wave7 Research into US sales trends across various carriers in July 2023 (survey conducted in early August) indicates a moderation of share above typical levels seen in July of past years, with consumer spending pauses ahead of the new product launch likely a contributing driver." Deutsche Bank adds a catalyst call buy on Penn Deutsche kept its long term hold rating on the stock but says it sees a series of positive catalysts ahead in the near term for Penn shares. "However, over the near term, we believe PENN has a catalyst stack that includes several potential upside drivers, against the backdrop of an undaunting valuation, one in which we, finally, believe, provides a free option on the Interactive segment." Read more about this call here. Citi upgrades Virtu Financial to buy from neutral Citi said investors should buy the dip in shares of the global markets company. "As we have seen numerous times over the years, regulatory headlines present opportunities with VIRT' s stock and we see the current weakness as an attractive entry point." Bank of America reiterates Alphabet as buy Bank of America said it's standing by its buy rating on the stock due to "AI innovation & potentially lower expenses." "We remain constructive on Google as we anticipate improving ad demand to drive Search and YouTube revenue acceleration in 2H'23, right when 1H'23 expense cuts are having biggest impact on y/y expense growth. William Blair upgrades JFrog to outperform from market perform William Blair said the software supply chain company is in its "next phase of growth." " JFrog has established a consistent track record of execution and profitability as a public companythe company has been free cash flow positive for more than eight years and is making steady progress toward its long-term target of 22% non-GAAP operating margin." BMO upgrades First Solar to outperform from market perform BMO said investors should buy the dip in shares of the solar company. "Upgrading FSLR to Outperform. Our estimates and $237 target unchanged. FSLR stock has declined by an unwarranted degree following its recent Analyst Day in our view." Read more about this call here. Jefferies upgrades MetLife to buy from hold Jefferies said in its upgrade of the insurance company that it's taking a more "constructive" view of the insurance industry. "That said, MET's YTD performance in this asset class has been stable, and the company has generated above-peer improvement in excess capital, largely on the reinsurance deal announced in May." Susquehanna upgrades Semtech to positive from neutral Susquehanna said investors should buy the dip in shares of the semiconductor company and that the turnaround is underway. "On Wednesday after the close, Semtech reported in-line results but guidance that was significantly worse. However, we have confidence that this should be the last major reset after what have been a painful series of resets over the past year." Wolfe upgrades Etsy to outperform from peer perform Wolfe said in its upgrade of the Etsy that it sees share outperformance ahead. "There are plenty of NT uncertainties due to weakening macro, but we see many paths for shares to outperform over the next 12-18 months." Read more about this call here. TD Cowen initiates BJ's as outperform TD said in its initiation of BJ's that it has a "value proposition with strong appeal to a younger demographic." "We like BJ's wholistic approach to club membership engagement which incorporates digital analytics & a complete basket value proposition with strong appeal to a younger demographic." Read more about this call here. Redburn Atlantic Equities upgrades Carnival and Norwegian to buy from neutral Redburn said in its upgrade of Carnival and Norwegian that the cruise companies are stronger post-covid. "The cruise industry, with an average guest age of almost 50, will enjoy a turbocharged version of this demand strength as the US over-65 population is set to grow at more than 2% per year until 2030, four times the overall population growth rate of the US." TD Cowen downgrades Frontier to market perform from outperform TD said in its downgrade of Frontier that booking trends appear below expected levels. "We are downgrading our rating to Market Perform and lowering our price target to $8/ share followed the latest guidance update from management." Bank of America reiterates Blackrock as buy Bank of America said the company is the "leading platform for investing & tech solutions." "We also believe BLK is best positioned for the key secular themes including the migration to fixed income, money market and private credit globally given the new higher rate backdrop and multiple other themes: outsourcing, digital wealth, private markets, and tech solutions." Goldman Sachs reiterates FedEx as buy Goldman said it's standing by its buy rating heading into earnings next week. "Apart from FDX' s long term cost savings, we believe investors will be focused on the volume trajectory as we wrap calendar 2023 and enter 2024.
In this article F

STLAM-IT

GM Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT

United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain greets workers at the Stellantis Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, to mark the beginning of contract negotiations in Sterling Heights, Michigan, U.S. July 12, 2023. Rebecca Cook | Reuters

DETROIT  The United Auto Workers union said it was prepared to conduct unprecedented, targeted strikes against Ford Motor , General Motors and Stellantis if the sides failed to reach new deals by 11:59 p.m. ET Thursday. Targeted, or bottleneck, strikes are an alternative to national actions in which the union only strikes select plants. They're different from when members walk out of all factories and onto picket lines, like what occurred four years ago during the last round of UAW negotiations with General Motors. Targeted strikes typically focus on key plants that can then cause other plants to cease production due to a lack of parts. They are not unprecedented, but the way UAW President Shawn Fain plans to conduct the work stoppages is not typical. They include initiating targeted strikes at select plants and then potentially increasing the number of strikes based on the status of the negotiations. "We will strike all three companies, a historic first, initially at a limited number of targeted locations that we will be announcing. Then, based on what's happening in bargaining, we're going to announce more locals that are going to be called to stand up and strike," Fain said Wednesday during a Facebook Live. Fain referred to the union's plans as a "stand-up strike," a nod to historic "sit-down" strikes by the UAW in the 1930s. While "historic," the targeted strikes could have unintended ripple effects. It's not clear how one plant will impact on others. The actions could also potentially send non-striking union members to unemployment lines, if their state allows them to collect any benefits due to being out of work as a result of a strike.

What about lockouts?

The stoppages also more easily open the door for the companies to hire permanent replacement workers and even conduct plant lockouts, according to labor experts. The UAW's strategy puts "some heat on the companies," but it also gives the companies "much more ability" to use such tactics, said Dennis Devaney, senior counsel at Clark Hill who formerly served as a board member of the National Labor Relations Board.

"I think that obviously is not a good thing from the UAW's perspective," said Devaney, who also formerly served as an attorney for GM and Ford. Plant lockouts, in which companies don't allow workers into a facility, are more common overseas than in the U.S., but they have occurred. For example, there was roughly a 10-month lockout of workers at an Exxon Mobil refinery in Texas that ended last year upon union ratification of a new agreement. The company said it was done in response to a strike notice issued by the union during negotiations in January 2021 for a new contract. Automakers, however, may want to continue producing parts and vehicles at plants for as long as they can in the event of the strikes intensifying, especially following years of supply chain disruptions due to parts shortages and the coronavirus pandemic. There are "significant, important factors" that companies need to take into account to determine if such "actions might be legal and appropriate," said Jeffrey S. Kopp, a corporate labor attorney with 26 years of experience and a partner at Foley & Lardner. The UAW knows lockouts are an option, citing "everything's on the table" for both sides if it comes to striking under the expired deals, said a person familiar with the union's plans.

Expired deals

The UAW hasn't conducted a strike like this before because under terms of the union's national contracts with the Detroit automakers, strikes at individual plants must be over local contracts, not national issues. But Fain said the UAW will strike at local plants over national issues. (For context, the UAW as an organization has an "international" unit that operates a leader, or umbrella, for local UAW units that all have their own contracts in addition to a national agreement.) Typically, such actions would be breach of the contracts and could lead to litigation or a complaint with the NLRB. In 1998, for example, GM filed a lawsuit against the UAW claiming a bottleneck strike at two Michigan plants that affected dozens of other company facilities was illegal.

However, according to the union, this rule no longer matters because members are working under expired contracts that nullify those terms. Ben Dictor, who serves as legal counsel for the UAW, said most of contracts such as wages and working conditions are still in effect but the "no strike, no lockout clause" expires. That means the union can strike, but it also opens the door for the companies to potentially lock out workers. "As part of the stand-up strike, some of us will be working without a contract. This is an essential part of our strategy to keep the companies off balance by calling locals out on strike based on what is happening in negotiations," Dictor said in a video posted online Thursday by the union. "That will keep them guessing and turbocharge your national negotiators in bargaining with the big three."

Strike fund
There have been further reports of blasts in Crimea overnight, with Russian authorities in the occupied peninsula closing a key bridge Thursday morning.

All traffic was suspended on the Crimean bridge, linking the Russian-occupied peninsula with the Russian mainland, for four hours this morning before it was reopened. No reason was given for the closure.

Russia's Defense Ministry said it had destroyed 11 Ukrainian drones over Crimea this morning, although it's unknown whether it was connected to the bridge closure.

Following reports of blasts near the Crimean town of Yevpatoriya in the early hours of Thursday, Ukraine confirmed it had targeted the site of a Russian missile "surface-to-air" missile system.
Russian President Vladimir Putin grimaces during his joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (not pictured), September 4,2023, in Sochi, Russia. Getty Images

The Biden administration is set to impose sanctions on five Turkish companies and a Turkish national on Thursday, accusing them of helping Russia evade sanctions and supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine, a senior Treasury official said. The designations  which include shipping and trade companies accused of helping repair sanctioned vessels tied to Russia's defense ministry and helping the transfer of "dual-use goods"  will be part of a bigger package targeting Russia with sanctions on more than 150 entities. The action comes at a delicate moment for U.S.-Turkey relations, with Washington hoping Ankara will ratify NATO membership for Sweden when the Turkish parliament reconvenes in early October. The United States and its allies imposed extensive sanctions on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine, but supply channels from Black Sea neighbor Turkey and other trading hubs have remained open, prompting Washington to issue repeated warnings about the export of chemicals, microchips and other products that can be used in Moscow's war effort. Multiple senior U.S. officials, including Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo, have traveled to Turkey since Russia's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine as part of a pressure campaign to prevent any Turkish companies from helping Russia circumvent U.S. curbs.

Wally Adeyemo, deputy U.S. Treasury secretary, speaks during a news conference at the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Monday, Nov. 8, 2021. Ting Shen | Bloomberg | Getty Images

"For the past 18 months, we've shared our concerns with the Turkish government and private sector and informed them of the significant risks of doing business with those we've sanctioned who are tied to Russia's war," said the senior Treasury official, speaking on the condition of anonymity. "These designations reflect our ongoing commitment to target individuals and entities who provide material support to sanctioned entities," the official added.

Blocking dual-use goods
Software developer Cognizant Technologies has suffered a setback at the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) Chennai. On September 13, the Tribunal denied the company's appeal and ruled that the tax notice issued by the Income Tax Department in relation to a Rs 19,000 crore share buyback exercise conducted in FY17 is valid.

Share Market Live NSE

It has been held that the buyback will attract a Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) . The total tax liability on the buyback exercise, according to the ITAT order, is Rs 4,853 crore.

In its order, the Tribunal has held that the buyback, which had the prior sanction of the Madras High Court , was a colourable device. In this case, on analysis of the scheme in light of relevant provisions of the Companies Act, 1956, and the Income Tax Act, 1961... it is clearly established that the scheme was implemented with a view to evade legitimate tax," the ITAT ruling says.

In FY17, Cognizant purchased 94,00,534 equity shares, each with a face value of Rs10, from its shareholders based in USA and Mauritius at Rs 20,297/share. This worked out to a consideration of Rs 19,080.26 crores.

However, this exercise changed the shareholding pattern, shifting the company's base to Mauritius. The IT Department argued that this change in the base was done solely to evade tax and that it otherwise made no commercial sense.

The tribunal agreed, saying, "From the above restructuring of the shareholding pattern of the assessee company, it is clear that there has been an artificial shifting shareholding base from USA to Mauritius solely with the aim of claiming DTAA benefits."

The ITAT went on to say, "the transactions of purchase of its own shares is nothing but distribution of accumulated profits and reduction of capital which falls under the definition of dividend." Hence it has been concluded that Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) would be applicable on the transaction.

ITAT Chennai also rejected Cognizant's arguments that since the scheme had the approval of the Madras High Court after inviting objections from the Government, "it operates as a judgment in rem and is binding on all stakeholders." It ruled that "the order sanctioning the scheme itself clearly provides that the sanction shall not grant immunity to the assessee from payment of taxes under any law for the time being in force."

The Tribunal also noted that the Madras High Court, when sanctioning the scheme, would only have looked to verify whether the contours met with the provisions of the Companies Act, 1956, whether the scheme had the requisite majority, whether it was fair to all members, at at the commercial wisdom of the creditors.

Cognizant says it is studying the order and has not ruled out challenging this order at higher legal fora. The company's spokesperson said it "will pursue available legal remedies before the Appellate Authority.
The shares of Intellect Design Arena rose more than 3 percent on Thursday, September 14, afternoon after the company announced that its consumer banking arm Intellect Global Consumer Banking (iGCB) has been selected by Zimbabwe-based AFC Commercial Bank for end-to-end banking transformation.

AFC Commercial Bank aims at delivering seamless and personalised banking experience to its customers through the partnership via Intellect Digital Core (IDC) to modernise its banking operations.

Through IDCs core banking solutions, AFC Commercial Bank will be able to customer experience with intuitive UI/UX and contextual offers, provide better management of personal finances to customers through features like goal-based savings and spend analysis, offer complete control of banking experience to customers through DIY UI, improve business visibility through CXO cockpit with enhanced real-time 360 customer insights and reporting, reduce inactive customers through churn analysis, increase asset book with end-to-end digital lending.

The African banking industry has evolved tremendously in the past few years. Banks are looking for technology platforms that can help them transform progressively based on market needs. IDCs fully composable architecture helps them to do exactly that, on a pay-as-you-grow model. We are excited to collaborate with AFC Commercial Bank and support their mission to provide a best-in-class experience to their customers, said Intellect Design Arena Global Consumer Banking (iGCB) CEO Rajesh Saxena.

The shares of Intellect Design Arena were trading 3 percent higher till 1 pm
Feature: Zimbabwean art students transform dreams into artistry in Chinese competition

Xinhua) 13:13, September 14, 2023

HARARE, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- An art submission by Zimbabwean art student Hope Mafiko for the "My Dream" painting competition is among the artworks by African youth sent to China's Tiangong Space Station by the Shenzhou-16 mission.

The competition, co-hosted by the secretariat of the Chinese Follow-up Committee of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, the China Manned Space Engineering Office, and the Chinese missions in Africa, received more than 2,000 entries from African youth from over 40 countries expressing their dreams through drawings.

Mafiko, 17 and an advanced-level student at Chisipite Senior School in Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe, who is one of the first prize winners, was elated to have her dreams flown into space.

"It's a significant privilege for me because it's not something that everyone else will get to experience, and I am just very happy and honored that I was chosen among them," Mafiko said.

The teenage artist's abstract painting, titled "One of the Best Interior Architects in Africa," showcases her dream of what interior architecture should be like.

"The art piece that I made is basically a good representation of what I would want interior architecture to be like in Africa and how I would envision it as futuristic and modern, in public spaces here in my own country of Zimbabwe," she explained.

Mafiko said that participating in the competition allowed her to share her perspective with the world. "It's not every day that I get the opportunity to collaborate with people outside of Africa, let alone a country as large as China. So, I was very grateful and surprised when I found out that I had won," Mafiko said.

On Wednesday, the Chinese astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station will showcase 10 first-prize paintings by African youth.

Another participant whose work received recognition is 24-year-old Asa King Zvihari, a fine art student at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe School of Visual Arts and Design.

His colorful artwork, titled "All Africans are united and working together," is among the third-prize winning entries and advocates for the unity of Africans from different countries.

"It portrays the African continent as united, with people working together as one nation. The continent will use the same currency, people will collaborate like a family, and there will be more equality among the people of Africa," he explained.

Additionally, Zvihari noted that having his artwork recognized brings his dream closer to reality.

The "My Dream" painting competition is part of a series of programs designed to promote people-to-people exchanges and cooperation in space exploration between China and Africa.

In September last year, the "Tiangong Dialogue-Talk with Taikonauts" was held in eight African countries, providing African teenagers with the opportunity to engage in video conversations with Chinese astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Kerala confirmed its fifth Nipah virus cases after a 24 year-old health worker tested positive for the virus. The health worker was employed at a private hospital in Kozhikode. He was confirmed with Nipah virus infection after his samples turned positive, a statement from Kerala Health Minister Veena George said on Wednesday.

The Nipah virus strain seen in the state was the Bangladesh variant that spreads from human to human and has a high mortality rate, though it is less infectious, the government said. "People living in forest areas have to take the highest precautions," George had said, adding that the latest case of the Nipah virus originated within five kilometres of a jungle area.

In the wake of the rising Nipah virus cases, neighbouring Tamil Nadu state announced that travellers coming from Kerala would be subjected to medical tests and those with flu symptoms would be isolated.

Nipah virus status in Kerala

The state government had earlier informed that two people had died , while two others had tested positive since the fresh outbreak in the state. The first death due to the virus took place on August 30 and the second death on September 11.

More than 700 people were being tested for the virus, spread via contact with the bodily fluids of infected bats, pigs or people, a state health official said earlier. The state government on Wednesday evening said at least 706 people, including 153 health workers, were undergoing tests to check the spread of the virus.

ALSO READ | Nipah Virus alert issued in Kerala: Know about symptoms and preventive measures

Meanwhile, the health minister said the condition of all 76 people who are in the high-risk contact category remains stable. She said 13 persons who have mild symptoms are now being monitored in the hospital, and only the child is in the Intensive Care Unit.

Kerala steps up cure

In the wake of the rising Nipah virus cases, the Kerala government stepped up its efforts to cure a 9-year-old boy suffering from the deadly infection by ordering the only anti-viral treatment available. George said the boy is on ventilator support at a hospital in Kozhikode, and his condition remains critical.

According to PTI, the government ordered monoclonal antibody from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to treat the child. It is the only available anti-viral treatment for Nipah virus infection, though it has not been clinically proven yet.

"We have ordered the monoclonal antibody with the ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) and it would be brought to Kozhikode soon. The imported medicine is already available with the ICMR," the state health minister said.

The Kerala government announced containment zones, imposed restrictions in these areas and declared holiday in few schools. The government also ramped up contact tracing to detect people who came in contact with the patients. Check details below:

Containment zones

Considering the serious nature of the disease, the Kozhikode administration declared seven village panchayats as containment zones. In a Facebook post, Kozhikode District Collector, A Geetha said that the panchayats declared as containment zones included seven village panchayats  Atanchery, Maruthonkara, Tiruvallur, Kuttiyadi, Kayakkodi, Villyapalli, and Kavilumpara.

Four more wards  three in Villyapally panchayat and one in Purameri panchayat  in Kozhikode district were declared as containment zones on Wednesday. Read details here

What's prohibited:

> No travel in or out of these containment zones will be allowed till further notice. The police have been asked to cordon off these areas.

> Only stores selling essential commodities and medical supplies will be allowed to function.

> Stores selling essential goods will be allowed to function from 7 am to 5 pm. No time bar has been given for pharmacies and health centres.

> Local self-government institutions and village offices can function with minimum staff.

> Banks, other government or quasi-government institutions, educational institutions, and anganwadis should not operate.

> The public should use online services and avoid going to local self-government institutions

> Buses or vehicles plying on national highways through the containment zones should not stop in the affected areas.

The minister said the district collector has been authorised to issue orders directing people to avoid mass gatherings in Kozhikode till September 24. "The district collector can decide whether to issue such a direction and the duration as per her analysis of the situation," George said.

Two-day holiday in Kozhikode

A holiday was declared for all educational institutions in Kerala's Kozhikode on Thursday and Friday. The holiday was declared by Kozhikode District Collector A Geetha who said educational institutions can arrange online classes on the two days for students.

However, there will be no change in university exams schedule, she added. A 24-year old health worker became Kerala's fifth confirmed Nipah case on Wednesday since its recent outbreak.

Testing and contact tracing

Testing of the samples is done regularly in the labs at Kozhikode Medical College and Thonnakkal virology lab, she said, adding the samples of those with intense symptoms will be sent to National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune.

Besides, George said that the state has two labs -- the Institute of Advanced Virology at Thonnakkal here and the Kozhikode Medical College -- to test and confirm Nipah, but they do not have the permission to declare the same.

"That permission is only with NIV, Pune. We are taking steps to obtain permission to declare Nipah at the two labs here," she said.

More than 200 persons have been given counselling through the call centres, the minister said.

She said some members of a central team have already reached Kozhikode, and others were expected on Thursday. The centre team also consists of a bat surveillance unit, which will be visiting the containment zones on Thursday.

Meanwhile, a 24-hour control room was set up in the neighbouring district of Wayanad following the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode. The Wayanad district administration also constituted 15 core committees to lead the prevention and surveillance activities and effectively deal with emergency situations.

Volunteer teams will be set up in the containment zones with the help of the people in the area, and these persons will be selected by the panchayats.

A long-term surveillance is already in place, and any patient who comes in with symptoms of encyphalitis is tested for a possible Nipah virus infection.

'Not just Kozhikode, but'

The minister also said the World Health Organization (WHO) and ICMR studies had found out that the entire state of Kerala is prone to getting such infections, not just Kozhikode.

A Reuters investigation in May identified parts of Kerala as among the places most at risk globally for outbreaks of bat viruses, especially as extensive deforestation and urbanisation have brought people and wildlife into closer contact.

In Kerala's first Nipah outbreak, 21 of the 23 people infected died. Outbreaks in 2019 and 2021 killed two people.

(With inputs from agencies)
NASA on Thursday (September 14) concluded its highly anticipated media briefing, revealing the results of a year-long, $100,000 study into Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs), also known as UFOs. The primary goal of this report was to shed light on these puzzling phenomena and establish a scientific framework for understanding them.

The briefing took an unexpected turn when questions arose regarding two purportedly "non-human" corpses that had been displayed in glass cases during an official unveiling at Mexico's Congress, sparking excitement within the UFO enthusiast community.

The mummified specimens were said to have been discovered in the city of Cusco, Peru, and were believed to be approximately 1,000 years old.

David Spergel, chair of the NASA UAP study, weighed in on the matter, stating that he had only seen reports about the specimens on social media and did not possess detailed information about their nature.

"We don't know the nature of those samples," he said.

He urged the Mexican government to make the samples available to the global scientific community, emphasising the importance of data-driven investigations.

Dan Evans, an assistant deputy associate administrator for research at NASA, emphasised the need to shift from conjecture and conspiracy theories towards scientific inquiry, stating, "One of the main things we're trying to do here today is to move conjecture and conspiracy towards science and sanity, and you do that with data."

Earlier on September 13, Journalist and prominent UFO researcher, Jaime Maussan, testified under oath during the Mexico City event. He claimed that nearly one-third of the DNA in these specimens was "unknown" and that they did not fit into the framework of "our terrestrial evolution," according to reports from Mexican media.

"These specimens are not part of our evolutionary history on Earth," Maussan asserted before Mexican government officials and U.S. representatives. "They are not beings recovered from a UFO crash. Instead, they were found in diatom (algae) mines and subsequently became fossilised."

However, it's worth noting that Maussan's credibility has been called into question before. In 2015, he made a claim that a mummified body, supposedly that of an alien, discovered near Nazca in Peru, was later debunked as it was found to be a human child.

Regarding the recent discovery, Maussan stated that scientists from the Autonomous National University of Mexico conducted examinations of the specimens. He claimed that radiocarbon dating was used to gather DNA evidence, and X-rays had revealed one of the specimens contained "eggs."

The revelation left members of the Mexican Congress with mixed feelings. Some expressed "thoughts" and "concerns" about the discovery, indicating a desire to "continue talking about this."

The presence of Ryan Graves, a former U.S. Navy pilot who had previously claimed that the number of UFOs or UAPs (unidentified anomalous phenomena) was being "grossly underreported," further added to the intrigue surrounding NASA's big event on Thursday.
The Nepal government is set to import 20,000 metric tonnes (MT) of sugar from India ahead of the upcoming festivals, including Vijaya Dashami and Deepawali to meet the domestic demand.

Although Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies has asked the Finance Ministry to give customs waiver for importing 60,000 MT of sugar to meet the local demand, the Finance Ministry has given permission to import only 20,000 MT for the time being.

According to Finance Ministry spokesperson, Dhaniram Sharma, the Ministry has given 50 percent discount on customs duty, which means 15 percent less from the earlier imposed 30 percent customs duty.

Two companies, Salt Trading Corporation (STC) and Food Management and Trading Company, both would import 10,000 MT sugar each for the upcoming festival season, according to Sharma. However, divisional manager of STC Brajesh Jha said that it had asked the government permission to import 50,000 MT of sugar.

According to Jha, Nepal's domestic demand for sugar stands at 3,00,000 MT and it needs to import a huge quantity of sugar mainly from India. There are 12 sugar factories in Nepal that produce around 1,00,000 MT of sugar.

According to an estimate, Nepal imports at least 70 percent sugar from India. Besides, thousands of tons of sugars are brought through illegal channel without paying customs duty.

Sugar is available in the black market in Kathmandu and the prices ranges from Nepali Rupees 100 to 125 per kg, where as it costs around Rs 40-50 in India.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines)  The all-original Filipino musical, "Walang Aray," a whip-smart, side-splitting reimagining of Severino Reyes' classic zarzuela "Walang Sugat," returns for a limited three-weekend run at the PETA Theater Center from October 6 to 22, 2023.

Witty and hilarious from start to finish, "Walang Aray" is a spoof and tribute to the iconic zarzuela.

The show is a mash-up of old and new, tackling the themes of love, nationalism, and patriotism with a mix of catchy tunes, pop culture references, irreverent humor, witty wordplays, and one-liner jabs that will leave audiences in stitches.

Chosen to launch PETA's comeback after waiting in the wings in 2018 and 2019, it closed its initial 41-show run with multiple sold-out shows, drawing audiences old and new with its unique brilliance and charm.

The musical recently swept 21 citations from Gawad Buhay  the country's premier recognition awards for the local theater scene, including Outstanding Book of a Musical, Outstanding Original Musical, Outstanding Original Score, Outstanding Musical Direction, Outstanding Ensemble Performance for a Musical, Outstanding Stage Direction for a Musical, Outstanding Choreography, Outstanding Sound Design, and Outstanding Set Design.

Photo from PETA

Gio Gahol and Marynor Madamesila, together with Shaira Opsimar and Jon Abella are leading the cast with their outstanding portrayals of the star-crossed lovers Tenyong and Julia, which also earned them citations for the Female and Male Lead Performance in a Musical in the Gawad Buhay Awards.

Apart from the sharp comedy and contemporary reflections, the highlight of the show is the crisp chemistry of the PETA Ensemble, which has been the heart and soul of many PETA productions.

Photo from PETA

The returning ensemble cast includes Jarred Jaicten and Bene Manaois as Miguel, Kiki Baento as Monica, Carlon Matobato as Lucas, Norbs Portales and Csai Habla as Don Tadeo, Neomi Gonzales as Dona Juana, and John Moran as Padre Alfaro. Joining them are the equally memorable ensemble: Donn Boco, Gerard Dy, Yeyin Dela Cruz, Ada Tayao, and Ayla Garcia, who all shine in their multiple roles.

"Walang Aray" is written by Rody Vera, with music by Vince Lim, directed by Ian Segarra, and choreography by Gio Gahol.

It is produced by PETA and Indie.Go Media, and co-presented by Dunkin'.

Tickets are available via TicketWorld.com.ph. For bulk ticket inquiries, contact Mitch Go at 0917-539-1112 or email PETA at petatheater@gmail.com.

For more information about "Walang Aray," follow PETA's social media pages: @petatheater.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  The Royal Canadian Navy warship, His Majestys Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ottawa, arrived in the Philippines on Thursday.

The arrival of the ship began the series of visits from Canadian vessels this month. The guided-missile frigate will be staying in the Philippines until Sept. 19.

HMCS Ottawa came from Japan and traversed to Taiwan Strait before proceeding to Subic Bay in Zambales.

Our transit to the Taiwan strait and the Indo-Pacific shows that we stand with rules-based international order and this is a physical manifestation of what we believe in, said Samuel Patchell, commanding officer of HMCS Ottawa.

Patchell said they didnt experience any significant encounters or challenges during their travel across Taiwan Strait. They only spotted a Chinese Navy ship but both sides were professional in conducting navigational activities.

No significant encounters when we were in transit from the 14th of August, nothing of significance, said Patchell.

Two more Canadian vessels are expected to come to the Philippines: MV Asterix, an auxiliary supply vessel, and the HMCS Vancouver, which will arrive in Manila at the end of the month.

Canada offers dark vessel detection satellite technology

Apart from increasing military presence in the region, Canada is in final negotiations over a satellite technology called Dark Vessel Detection.

It is a space-based platform that provides situational awareness and real time update to officials of who is in your territorial waters, its a very significant, very advanced technology, multi-layered and multi-faceted, said Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman.

The technology will boost the capability of maritime officials in detecting foreign vessels even if they turn off their automatic identification system transponders.

Hartman also said Ottawa is closely monitoring the developments in the West Philippine Sea.

Canada has been unequivocal in our condemnation in the activities taking place in the West Philippine Sea. The [2016 Arbitral Award] of UNCLOS is binding and final, he added.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  Aerial patrols recently conducted by the military showed a concerning resurgence of Chinese fishing vessels swarming in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported on Thursday.

In a statement, the AFP Western Command (Wescom) said its Sept. 6 and 7 patrols revealed heightened swarming activity in three areas, where a total of 30 fishing vessels were spotted.

These are Rozul (Iroquois) Reef where 23 vessels were observed, Escoda (Sabina) Shoal where there were five vessels, and Baragatan (Nares) Bank where there were two.

The Wescom added that the Philippine Navy also reported on Aug. 24 that 33 Chinese fishing vessels were seen on Rozul Reef during a routine air patrol. It said previous swarming incidents in this feature of the WPS have been followed by reports of massive coral harvesting.

The same patrol likewise found swarming activity on Escoda Shoal, which the Wescom noted serves as a marker for the approach to Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal and where unauthorized Chinese shadowing of Philippine watercraft typically occurs.

It stressed that such intrusion[s] by Beijing is a violation of Philippine sovereign rights and jurisdiction, as these are areas within the countrys exclusive economic zone and continental shelf.

The Wescom said the increased presence of Chinese fishing vessels raises tensions in the area and concerns about "the potential implications for Philippines' maritime security, fisheries conservation, territorial integrity, and preservation of the marine environment.

As the CN (Chinese) swarming activity resurges, the Philippines continues to remain vigilant and take necessary measures to safeguard its vital national interests and maintain stability in the region, the military added.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  The Commission Elections (Comelec) has exempted various livelihood and employment programs of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) from the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections spending ban.

In a memorandum released Thursday, Comelec Chairman George Garcia approved the exemption of DOLE's Special Program for Employment of Students, Government Internship Program, JobStart Philippines Program, DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program.

The poll body also exempted DOLE from the prohibition of appointing or hiring employees under Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code as the agency's program requires hiring its beneficiaries, young workers and qualified poor, vulnerable and marginalized individuals.

Speaking to CNN Philippines' The Source, Garcia clarified that government agencies may still implement social services during the election period, but with Comelec's consent.

"It is never the intention of the law for the government to stop its services to people," Garcia said. "But there are services that should pass through Comelec, such as ayuda, but when it comes to other assistance in relation to medical, burial and food, we are exempting that."

The use of public funds for government programs like social welfare projects is prohibited during the poll period from Sept. 15 to Oct. 30.

Comelec earlier exempted the Department of Social Welfare and Development's cash subsidy for small-scale retailers to compensate for losses from the price ceiling on rice under Executive Order 39.

"We are very strict with the requirements and requisites that there should be no disruption in the presence of barangay officials. They can be there to ensure peace and order but not to hand over rice subsidy," Garcia said

Garcia stressed that those caught distributing money without Comelec's consent could be charged criminally and administratively and be imprisoned for one to six years

"If the distribution is made by incumbent barangay officials who are running, we can charge them with premature campaigning and this is grounds for disqualifying the candidate," Garcia said.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  More than 900,000 public school teachers can expect to receive their performance-based bonus from 2021 as the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) already released 11.6 billion to cover the delayed incentive.

A total of 920,073 personnel in various public elementary and secondary schools would benefit from this budget release, the DBM said in a statement on Thursday.

As of Sep. 1, it said that all 16 regional offices already released the corresponding Special Allotment Release Orders (SAROs) and Notice of Cash Allocations (NCAs) to the DepEd for 2021 bonuses.

The DBM said the DepEd submitted the updated documents just in April to August of this year.

This could be attributed to the strikingly high number of eligible personnel at around 900,000 employees in the DepEd, and the voluminous documents being submitted for the purpose, the DBM said.

DepEd spokesperson Michael Poa said in July that the department needed to do reconciliation to ensure that those who would receive the bonuses were employed in 2021.

Meanwhile, the DBM said it returned the documentary requirements for 2021 bonuses of non-teaching personnel in eight regions for DepEds revalidation/revision.

The documents were sent back due to varying concerns, such as duplicate entries, incorrect information on the months of service, and certain personnel not found in the DepEds Personnel Services Itemization and Plantilla of Personnel, among others, it said.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  The chief of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) defended the agency's proposed 300-million confidential funds, saying this is necessary to fight scammers.

DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy said "our hands are tied" if the agency fails to secure the needed budget to stomp out the operations of cyber criminals.

He also described these syndicates as "very well funded, very well organized, and very highly technical."

The official said scammers have deployed measures to avoid being detected and captured by authorities.

"And we need all the resources possible and all the tools possible in order to go after them. And many of these tools and many of these methodologies require confidential funds to do it," he stressed.

"So, the confidential fund is essential in order to conduct intel and investigation in order to go after these criminals, Uy said during a Palace briefing on Wednesday.

Last year, Filipinos witnessed a surge in fraudulent text messages, prompting the government to implement the SIM registration law.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  The House Committee on Appropriations has amended the government's 5.768-trillion spending plan for 2024 to extend the validity of funds for maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE).

The amendment was included in the committee report on the 2024 General Appropriations Bill (GAB) that the panel approved Thursday in a closed-door meeting.

Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo, senior vice chairperson of the committee, told reporters that they also removed a provision in the GAB requiring Congress to submit a report to the executive branch to ensure the legislature's independence, but did not elaborate on the specifics of the report in question.

Section 66 of the General Provisions of the 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP) submitted by the Department of Budget and Management to Congress states that disbursement of funds should be made not later than Dec. 31, 2024.

Meanwhile, it states that the delivery, inspection and payment of MOOE and other capital outlays shall be made not later than June 30, 2025. All unused funds shall be returned to the national treasury after the budget's validity lapses.

"There were two changes on the NEP," Quimbo said. "One is on the validity of the budget. We changed it from one and a half [years] for MOOE to two years."

However, she did not offer an explanation on the rationale behind extending the validity of only the budget's MOOE.

"And then the other is we put in a special provision on the chapter for Congress to ensure the independence of Congress, meaning that provision would ensure the independence of Congress as a co-equal branch of government," she added.

Quimbo said the panel retained the GAB's provisions on confidential and intelligence funds, as well as the requirement for government agencies to submit reports on the Commission on Audit's findings and recommendations, and post them online.

Ombudsman Samuel Martires has asked Congress to remove a provision in the GAB requiring the publication of annual audit reports on various government agencies, offices and local government units.

Plenary debates on the GAB will start on Sept. 19, with the House eyeing its approval on third and final reading on Sept. 27. Discussions will kick off with the Development Budget Coordination Committee, Quimbo said.

A 30-minute period will be given to each lawmaker who wishes to question the sponsor of an agency's budget, including the time allotted for answers.

A lawmaker who has asked questions may be allowed another round of interpellation, subject to the approval of the House majority leader.

CNN Philippines has sought clarification from Quimbo as to the reasoning behind the amendments to the 2024 GAB committee report. This story will be updated when she responds.
Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier of Malaysia and a member of the oneworld Alliance, has launched its global getaway sale on fares for flights from London Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur and beyond.

On sale from now until September 27, 2023, travellers can make the most of these fares for travel from November 1-30, 2023 and March 1- June 30, 2024 with availability on selected dates between these travel periods. Both Economy and Business Class are included as part of this promotion, offering a choice to all.

Customers who take advantage of these offers can fly to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur from 715 return, Phuket from 759 and Melbourne from 969.

Travellers seeking the ultimate comfort can also book Business Class to Kuala Lumpur from 3,550 return and to Australasia from only 4775.

Malaysia Airlines also offers an additional 3% discount on flight purchases made via its app.

Malaysia Airlines operates out of London Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur with the state-of-the-art Airbus A350- 900, which features the signature business suite alongside business class and the choice of extra legroom seats in economy cabins, in which all passengers can enjoy its world-class Malaysian hospitality and cuisine.  TradeArabia News Service
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  The Commission on Elections (Comelec) sees Negros Oriental, which has several incidents of politics-related violence including the killing of Governor Roel Degamo, as a "possible contender" to be declared a hotspot area, chairman George Garcia said on Thursday.

Garcia said areas to be tagged as hotspots pose a "serious challenge" to the upcoming Barangay and Sanggunihan Kabataan Elections (BSKE).

"We already pinpointed certain areas in the Bangsamoro and, of course, Negros Oriental is a possible contender for being a hotspot area and other areas in Northern Luzon," Garcia told CNN Philippines' The Source.

Election hotspots, or "areas of concern," are local areas with a history of election-related violence, possible employment of partisan armed groups, and the occurrence of politically motivated election-related incidents.

The chairman said the poll body will be in talks with the Philippine National Police to determine election hotspots that should be placed under Comelec control or considered of "serious concern."

Senator Francis Tolentino last month sought to postpone the elections in the province due to increasing cases of political violence.

Nine Negros Oriental mayors also suggested to put off the BSKE in the area, citing a "lingering atmosphere of terror" following the aftermath of Degamo's murder.

Law enforcers, however, have reported that crime incidents in the province have declined.

Grounds for postponement of elections include rebellion, insurrection, violence, terrorism, loss or destruction of election paraphernalia or records, force majeure, and other similar causes of such nature that prevent the holding of a free and orderly election.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  Questioning the coast guard's capability to protect the West Philippine Sea (WPS) was "disheartening to hear," an official said.

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela said he "wholeheartedly stand[s] by the Commandant and the 30,000 courageous men and women of the Philippine Coast Guard, who are dedicated to fulfilling our patriotic duty in the West Philippine Sea."

He stressed that they would continue protecting Philippine waters regardless of aid from foreign partners.

"It is disheartening to hear doubts cast on our capabilities to carry out this duty without the support of other external actors," Tarriela said in a statement on Thursday.

"The Filipino people can rest assured that the PCG is resolute in our commitment to safeguarding our Exclusive Economic Zone. Despite any limitations we may encounter, we are unwavering in our determination to patrol and protect our waters with the assets available to us," he added.

The coast guard official did not specify which country he was referring to. However, during a hearing earlier this week, a senator asked if the presence of a US aircraft contributed to the success of the recent resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal.

READ: Senator: Did presence of US aircraft contribute to success of Ayungin resupply mission?

Chinese vessels previously blocked the Philippine government's resupply mission by firing water cannons.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14)  The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Thursday said its P27.34 billion proposed budget is not enough to fund its study on automating the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) in 2025.

"There was this resolution by the house committee on electoral reforms, it was approved by that committee, directing the commission to study the possibility of automating the election of the BSK in 2025," Comelec Chairman George Garcia told the hearing of the Senate Committee on Finance.

"And so, we were saying that the proposed budget right now does not contain yet a preparatory barangay and SK automated, barangay and SK elections," he said.

Garcia emphasized that they have a tight timeline since mid-term elections will also be held in May 2025.

"Kung mag-o-automate po kami ng BSKE [If we will automate BSKE] then ang filing ng certificate of candidacy for BSKE automated should be by May also of 2025, because we have to prepare the ballots of 42,021 barangays in the entire country," he said.

For his part, Senator Koko Pimentel said automating the BSKE may just be a waste of time.

"Sayang lang yung effort niyo dun [Your efforts will be wasted]," Pimentel told Garcia.

"Number one, hindi naman yan mandato ng batas," the senator added. "Number two, its really going to be expensive if you can pull it off. Tanong ko lang but why?Concentrate na lang kayo sa NLE, concentrate na lang kayo sa BSKE na manual."

[Translation: Number one, that [BSKE] is not mandated by law. Number two, its really going to be expensive to pull it off. My question is why?...Just concentrate on NLE (National and Local Elections), just concentrate on using the manual system for BSKE.]

Meanwhile, under Republic Act (R.A.) 8436, as amended by R.A. 9369, the Comelec is authorized to use an automated election systems to ensure the secrecy and sanctity of the ballot and all election, including the consolidation and transmission documents to be transparent, credible, and fast.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 14) A Supreme Court (SC) ruling was badly needed to appeal the conduct of two elections in 2025, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said on Thursday during the Senate finance subcommittees hearing on the poll body's proposed P21.34 billion budget.

According to Comelec, the copy for the decision has not been released for more than two months after its announcement.

On June 27, a law that postponed the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) from Dec. 5, 2022 to the last Monday of October 2023 was declared unconstitutional by the SC.

It also set the next polls to December 2025, just seven months after the midterm elections.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia said the poll body will have to work double time to simultaneously prepare for the two elections.

He added that if the court wanted to be firm on the regularity or periodicity of the elections, then the next polls should be in 2026.

The Supreme Courts decision would also shorten the term of elected officials, he noted.

Garcia said the Comelec will file a motion for reconsideration when it receives a copy of the high court ruling.

Ang tagal na ha. Anong balita? Kailan daw lalabas? Ang lapit na ng eleksyon a, said Sen. Imee Marcos, chaiperson of the Senate Committee on Electoral Reforms, questioning the long wait.

She wondered why the ponente, Associate Justice Antonio T. Kho Jr., made a departure from his opinion when he was Comelec commissioner.

Lahat tayo nagulat sa decision lalong lalo na sa ponente, dahil sitting exactly where you're sitting now when he was a member of the commission, he actually testified to this committee that it will be inconvenient and very difficult to have two elections in a single year, Sen. Marcos added.

Asked if she is planning to write to the Supreme Court about it, the senator stressed the need to pay courtesy to a co-equal and independent branch of government.

The Comelec requested a P44-billion budget for next year, but the budget department slashed P17.4 billion.

Garcia again appealed for the restoration of at least P5.7 billion so the preparation for the national elections will not be sacrificed.

Di ba po dapat nga December 5, 2022 nag registration po kami," Garcia said. "Nag-increase ang number of voters kasama SK, ngayon po 91 million kasama SK. Nag-increase din number of precincts, number of electoral board members, pati ballot boxes, saka yung overtime."

This year, the Comelec had to request P2.5 billion from the contingent fund of the Office of the President just so the BSKE could push through on Oct. 30.

After a four-hour hearing, the subpanel endorsed the Comelecs budget to the Senate Committee on Finance. Marcos could not say for certain if the poll body's request for additional allocation can be granted.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 15)  The Philippines is partnering with Estonia in digital cooperation to strengthen cybersecurity and e-governance initiatives, according to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

In a statement Thursday, the DICT said Sec. Ivan John Uy told Prime Minister Kaja Kallas that the Philippines is already preparing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on digital cooperation during the bilateral meeting held on the sidelines of the Tallinn Digital Summit 2023 in Estonia.

The MOU awaits feedback from relevant stakeholders, according to the DICT.

"The proposed MOU between the Philippines and Estonia will pave the way for future agreements in other fields of ICT, support the government's digital transformation, and enhance the country's cybersecurity posture," Uy said.

Kallas said he anticipated the signing of the MOU that will establish the framework for future collaborations between the two countries.

In 2022, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Kallas also discussed advancing digitalization, particularly addressing cyberattacks.

Estonia, a small country with a population of 1.3 million, was ranked third in the world in terms of cyber defense infrastructure by the Global Cybersecurity Index.
Would you like to receive our news updates? Signup today!

Sign up to receive notifications when a new Columbia Gorge News e-Edition is published.

Error! There was an error processing your request.

Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.

Gorge Social

Information from the News and our advertisers (Want to add your business to this to this feed?)
BAE Systems and L&T team up to bring BvS10 All- Terrain Vehicle to India under the Make in India programme

MUMBAI/LONDON, Sep 14 (UNI) BAE Systems Inc. and Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) have partnered to bring the world-leading Articulated All-Terrain Vehicle (AATV), the BvS10, to the Indian market.

The two companies have signed an agreement to offer the BvS10 for an Indian Armed Forces programme, according to a media statement on Thursday.

Under the agreement, L&T is the prime bidder for the Indian market, with the support of BAE Systems Hagglunds, the Swedish manufacturer of the highly successful BvS10 family of vehicles. BAE Systems and L&T have upgraded the BvS10 to meet the specific requirements of the Indian Armed Forces. This new variant will be known as the BvS10-Sindhu. The AATV programme aims to deliver vehicles from L&Ts Armoured Systems Complex, Hazira along with integrated logistic support (ILS). Our BvS10 all-terrain vehicle will demonstrate the critical capabilities the Indian Army needs when it participates in the trials later this month. Unsurpassed mobility, flexibility and the ability to work in extreme climatic conditions are at the core of BvS10 design, said Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, Managing Director of BAE Systems Hagglunds. Our teaming with Larsen & Toubro gives us the opportunity to expand into the Indo-Pacific market. Larsen & Toubro sees this opportunity as an impetus for L&Ts Armoured Systems business to build on the aegis of a strong manufacturing and design base coupled with the experience of BAE Systems. L&T and BAE Systems tie-up synergizes our strengths to provide a solution to meet the requirements of the Indian Army, said Arun Ramchandani, Executive Vice President & Head L&T Defence. The BvS10-Sindhu is the ideal vehicle for the extremely challenging terrain and climatic conditions in which it is proposed to be deployed. The BvS10 vehicle on display at Defence and security equipment international (DSEI) in London this week features a Mobile Short Range Air Defense system (MSHORAD) configuration. This demonstrates the versatility of the vehicle, evolving into a modular fighting platform which can carry a broad array of payloads addressing almost any threat in the modern operating environment without impacting the under-armor volume. The BvS10s articulated mobility, provides optimal maneuverability across varying terrains including snow, ice, rock, sand, mud, swamps, and steep mountain environments. The vehicles amphibious features also allow it to swim in flooded areas or coastal waters. It can deliver personnel and supplies as well as mounted lethality to address any threat in the modern operating environment. The modular design allows the BvS10 to be reconfigured for varying missions. It can be delivered in multiple variants that include transporting personnel, command and control, ambulance service, vehicle repair and recovery, logistics support, situational awareness, as well as vehicle mounted lethality and support systems. Vehicle is currently in service in Austria, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the United Kingdom amongst others. It is also on order for the German Army. BAE Systems Beowulf, the unarmored variant of the BvS10, won the U.S. Armys competition for its Cold Weather All-Terrain Vehicle (CATV) program in August. The U.S. Army will receive 110 vehicles over a five-year period. UNI SJC KK
Srinagar, Sep 14 (UNI) J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday laid a wreath and paid homage to Col Manpreet Singh and Major Aashish Dhonchak, who were killed in an operation against terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district.



"My deepest condolences to their families. The grateful nation will forever remain indebted to the bravehearts, the Lt Governor said.



The mortal remains of the bravehearts will be sent to their respective native places for last rites with full military honours, an official spokesman said.









Three officers identified as Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, his company commander Major Aashish Dhonchak- also from the 19 RR, and Deputy Superintendent of Police Himayun Muzamil Bhat, who was recently posted in the area were killed in a gunfight at Gadole village of Kokernag on Wednesday. The operation to flush out militants is still underway in the area.







UNI MJR GNK
Large language models (LLMs) often appear to be in a fight to claim the title of largest and most powerful, but many organizations eyeing their use are beginning to realize big isnt always better.

The adoption of generative artificial intelligence (genAI) tools is on a steep incline. Organizations plan to invest 10% to 15% more on AI initiatives over the next year and a half compared to calendar year 2022, according to an IDC survey of more than 2,000 IT and line-of-business decision makers.

And genAI is already having a significant impact on businesses and organizations across industries. Early adopters claim a 35% increase in innovation and a 33% rise in sustainability because of AI investments over the past three years, IDC found.

Customer and employee retention has also improved by 32%. AI will be just as crucial as the cloud in providing customers with a genuine competitive advantage over the next five to 10 years, said Ritu Jyoti, a group vice president for AI & Automation Research at IDC. Organizations that can be visionary will have a huge competitive edge.

IDC

While general purpose LLMs with hundreds of billions or even a trillion parameters might sound powerful, theyre also devouring compute cycles faster than the chips they require can be manufactured or upscaled; that can strain server capacity and lead to an unrealistically long time to train models for a particular business use.

Sooner or later, scaling of GPU chips will fail to keep up with increases in model size, said Avivah Litan, a vice president distinguished analyst with Gartner Research. "So, continuing to make models bigger and bigger is not a viable option."

Dan Diasio, Ernst & Youngs Global Artificial Intelligence Consulting Leader, agreed, adding that theres currently a backlog of GPU orders. A chip shortage not only creates problems for tech firms making LLMs, but also for user companies seeking to tweak models or build their own proprietary LLMs.

As a result, the costs of fine-tuning and building a specialized corporate LLM are quite high, thus driving the trend towards knowledge enhancement packs and building libraries of prompts that contain specialized knowledge, Diasio said.

Additionally, smaller domain specific models trained on more data will eventually challenge the dominance of today's leading LLMs, such as OpenAI's GPT 4, Meta AIs LLaMA 2, or Google's PaLM 2.

Smaller models would also be easier to train for specific use cases.

LLMs of all sizes are trained through a process known as prompt engineering  feeding queries and the correct responses into the models so the algorithm can respond more accurately. Today, there are even marketplaces for lists of prompts, such as the 100 best prompts for ChatGPT.

But the more data ingested into LLMs, the the greater the possibility of bad and inaccurate outputs. GenAI tools are basically next-word predictors, meaning flawed information fed into them can yield flawed results. (LLMs have already made some high-profile mistakes and can produce hallucinations where the next-word generation engines go off the rails and produce bizarre responses.)

For vertical industries or specialized use, massive general purpose LLMs such as OpenAIs GPT 4 or Meta AIs LLaMA can be inaccurate and non-specific, even though they contain billions or trillions of parameters. A parameter is something that helps an LLM decide between different answers it can provide to queries.

Though mega LLMs use well-understood technology  and continue to improve  they can only be developed and maintained by tech giants with the enough resources, money and skills to do so, Litan argued.

That consolidates the power of LLMs with a few dominant players, and that centralization is an enormous risk in itself, she said. Centralization of enormous technological power amongst just a handful of players is always a bad idea. There are no meaningful checks and balances on these companies. And the chip industry cannot keep up. GPU innovation is moving slower than the widening and growth of model sizes. Hardware is always slower to change than software.

Training up LLMs for specific organizational use

While models like GPT 4 are pre-filled and trained with massive amounts of information drawn from the internet and other sources, prompt engineering allows genAI users to adjust responses by using either proprietary or industry-specific information. For example, a user organization could connect ChatGPT to its back-end applications and databases with native APIs; the genAI tool can then draw on that proprietary company information for more business-specific uses.

According to a new survey of 115 CFOs by Deloitte, 42% said their companies are experimenting with genAI, and 15% are building it into their strategy. Roughly two-thirds of surveyed CFOs say less than 1% of next years budget will be spent on genAI, and about one-third of CFOs project 1% to 5% to go toward the emerging technology.

For 63% of CFOs, the greatest barriers to adopting and deploying genAI are talent resources and capabilities. In light of a lack of internal talent, a growing number of tech firms have unveiled genAI tools based on LLMs that can automate business tasks or help users handle redundant or repetitive tasks.

In March, Salesforce announced plans to release a GPT-based chatbot for use with its CRM platform. That same month, Microsoft announced its GPT-4-based Dynamics 365 Copilot, which can automate some CRM and ERP tasks. Other genAI platforms can assist in writing code or performing HR functions, such as ranking job applicants from best to worst or recommending employees for promotions.

The big LLM creators are also beginning to tailor their models for specific industry uses.

For example, Google now offers two domain specific models: Med-PaLM 2, its medically tuned version of PaLM 2, which will be available next month as a preview to more customers in the healthcare and life sciences industry, and Sec-Palm, a version fine-tuned for security uses. The latter incorporates security intelligence such as Googles visibility into the threat landscape and Mandiants frontline intelligence on vulnerabilities, malware, threat indicators, and behavioral threat actor profiles.

Google also offers Vertex AI, a set of tuning methodologies used to customize its PaLM 2 LLM or  it claims  any third-party or open-source model.

Our customers use these tuning methods to customize for their specific business use cases and leverage their own enterprise data, while providing guidance around which approach is best for their use case, business objectives, and budget, a Google spokesperson said in an email response to Computerworld.

Vertex AI offers customization features such as prompt tuning and adapter tuning, which requires a bigger training dataset  from hundreds to thousands of examples  and a small amount of computing power to train, the spokesperson said.

It also offers reinforcement learning with human feedback, which takes human feedback on the outputs to tune the model using Vertex AI pipelines.

Startups are also entering the fray, creating vertical-specific LLMs or fine-tuning models for their clients.

Writer, for example, is a startup that offers a full-stack, genAI platform for enterprises; it can support business operations, products, sales, human resources operations, and marketing. The company offers a range of language models that cater to specific industries. The companys smallest model has 128 million parameters, the largest  Palmyra-X  has 40 billion.

We fine-tune our base models to support industry verticals, said May Habib, co-founder and CEO of Writer.

For example, to create Palmyra-Med  a healthcare oriented model  Writer took its base model, Palmyra-40B, and applied instruction fine-tuning. Through this process, the company trained the LLMs on curated medical datasets from two publicly available sources, PubMedQA and MedQA.

Smaller models are becoming viable options that are available to many researchers and end-users today, and spreading the AI 'wealth' around is a good idea from a control and an solution point of view," according to Litan. There are many experiments and innovations that show smaller models trained on much more data (e.g., five to 10 times more) or curated data, can come close to the performance of the mega LLMs."

In February Facebook-parent Meta released versions of its LLaMa LLM in sizes ranging from seven to 65 billion parameters, vastly smaller than previous models. It also claimed its 13-billion-parameter LLaMA model outperformed the much larger GPT-3 model on most benchmarks. Meta said its smaller LLM would democratize access to genAI by requiring less computing power and resources to test new approaches, validate others work, and explore new use cases.

There are other innovations taking place at Stanford, Nvidia, and across academic institutions such as John Hopkins, which launched the BabyLM challenge to create significantly smaller models that are nearly as good as the largest LLMs. All of these still have to prove themselves beyond the research labs, but progress is moving forward, Litan said.

There are also other techniques being tested, including one that involves training smaller sub-models for specific jobs as part of a larger model ecosystem.

We are seeing the concern from enterprises about using a model like GPT, or PaLM because theyre very large and have to be hosted by the model providers. In a sense your data does go through those providers, said Arvind Jain, CEO of Glean, a provider of an AI-assisted enterprise search engine.

Gleans search engine relies heavily on LLMs such as GPT 4, PaLM 2, and LLaMA 2 to match user queries to the enterprise from which theyre seeking data or internal documents.

Among the concerns that remain with cloud-based LLMs are security, privacy, and copyright infringement issues. OpenAI and Google now offer assurances they will not misuse client data to better customize their LLMs, said Jain, a former distinguished engineer for Google. And enterprises are accepting those assurances, Jain said.

Along those lines, OpenAI just released its ChatGPT Enterprise application, offering organizations increased security and privacy through encryption and single sign-on technology.

Derek Holt, CEO of Digital.ai, which sells a platform for AI-driven software development, said smaller, better-tailored LLMs are emerging from startups such as Pryon that allow organizations to build their own LLMs quickly. The idea being: 'well build one through the context of our enterprises data,' Holt said.

Matt Jackson, global CTO at systems integration services provider Insight Enterprises, said there are definite advantages for some usersof a more focused LLM. For example, the healthcare and financial services industries are experimenting with smaller models trained on specific data sets.

Amazon is also releasing its own LLM marketplace with smaller models organizations can train using their own enterprise data.

For most, training their own model is probably not the right approach. Most companies we work with are perfectly suited using ChatGPT, Langchain, or Microsofts cognitive search engine. The LLM is a black box thats pretrained. You can allow that to access your own data, Jackson said.

Building a custom LLM is hard, and expensive

Currently, there are hundreds of open-domain LLMs contained in online developer repositories such as Github. But the models tend to be much smaller than those from established tech vendors, and therefore far less powerful or adaptable.

On top of that, building proprietary LLMs can be an arduous task; Jain said hes not come across a single client thats successfully done so, even as they continue to experiment with the technology.

The reality right now is the models that are in open domain are not very powerful. Our own experimentation has shown that the quality you get from GPT 4 or PaLM 2 far exceeds that of open-domain models, Jain said. So, for general purpose applications, its not the right strategy right now to build and train your own models.
Google-parent Alphabet late on Wednesday let go of hundreds of employees from its recruiting team in continuation of its efforts to operate more efficiently as macroeconomic uncertainty looms.

The company, which faces stiff competition from Microsoft, AWS, IBM, and Oracle in the field of generative AI and artificial intelligence, is looking to trade non-technical roles for engineering and technical talent.

As weve said, we continue to invest in top engineering and technical talent while also meaningfully slowing the pace of our overall hiring, a Google spokesperson said in an email statement.

In July, Alphabets chief financial officer Ruth Porat, during an earnings call, said that the company would remain very focused on durably reengineering its cost base, despite having already laid off 12,000 staffers in January this year, which saw some recruiters impacted as well.

The decision to reduce the number of roles in the recruiting team, according to the company, is directly related to the lowering demand for such roles over the next few quarters.

The volume of requests for our recruiters has gone down. In order to continue our important work to ensure we operate efficiently, we have made the hard decision to reduce the size of our recruiting team, the spokesperson said.

Several staffers, who were laid off on Wednesday, took to social media sites such as LinkedIn to share their plight and look for new roles elsewhere.

At 10 am today, all of Google Staffing got an email that there would be a meeting at Noon - it said there was going to be hard news and we should work from home, an employee with the staffing division shared.

Another Googler, who was responsible for hiring in the companys cloud arm, also took to LinkedIn to share the news of her dismissal. A separate staffer, who was overlooking talent acquisition in the public sector space, said that he was let go as well.

To support its laid-off employees, the company said it will be offering outplacement services and severance packages.

In the last sequential quarter, Alphabet reported a 7% increase in revenue for the quarter ended June, driven by the growth in its cloud computing division.

Despite macroeconomic uncertainty affecting customers cloud expenditure, Google Cloud maintained its growth momentum, reporting a 28% increase in revenue. The divisions net sales stood at $8 billion compared to $6.27 billion for the same period last year.

The company faced criticism for laying off staffers in its cloud division earlier this year, especially the ones responsible for driving Google Clouds open source strategy.

Investors in the company, too, have been pushing for more layoffs. The first nudge came from London-based TCI Capital Fund Management right after the company decided to reduce 6% of its total workforce.

TCI Capital's second letter, written on the day Alphabet announced the layoffs, argued that the company should reduce its cost base further by cutting its workforce back to the 150,000 it employed at the end of 2021. Before the 6% reduction, the company had 187,000 staffers on payroll.
In yet another incident of an outage this year for Microsoft 365, enterprises using the companys North American infrastructure for running Teams faced disruption on Wednesday evening, resulting in delay in sending or receiving messages over the productivity application.

Were investigating an incident affecting Microsoft Teams. Users may encounter delays or failures sending and receiving messages. For more details, please see TM675041 on the Service Health Dashboard in the admin center, the company posted on Twitter, now rebranded as X.

Two hours after its first post, the company determined that the problem affecting Teams was specific to some users served through affected infrastructure in North America.

Were routing affected service traffic to healthy infrastructure to alleviate impact, it wrote on X.

The company claimed to have solved the issue an hour after it sent out the second post on X and the companys service status page shows all 365 services in good health at the time of writing.

Nine outages in eight months

However, this is not the first time that a Microsoft 365 application has suffered an outage. The current incident takes the count to nine occurrences in eight months.

In June, users faced issues with Outlook Web, Teams, OneDrive for Business, and SharePoint for over eight hours.

In May, the company reported that UK users were facing issues accessing some service offerings under Microsoft 365.

In April, Microsoft said it was investigating an issue where certain users were unable to use the search functionality in multiple Microsoft 365 services. Outlook on the Web, Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, Microsoft Teams, and Outlook desktop clients were among the affected services.

In another incident in April, users could not access Microsoft 365 web applications and Teams.

Microsoft also suffered a global outage in February and yet again its users could not access emails and Teams. It suffered a similar outage in January.

The company also faced a data center outage in Australia last month and later blamed it on staff strength and failed automation.
Smartphones are arguably more powerful than PCs. Consider that the iPhone 12, at 11 teraflops, outperformed the Cray 2 supercomputer by over 5000 times. And thats a now-three-year-old phone.

Even Samsung argues that modern smartphones are more powerful than PCs. Even if that isnt true for high-end PCs, the performance of the two classes of devices is very close between top-end smartphones and high-volume PCs with integrated graphics.

So why havent we yet ditched PCs for smartphones? Because of the human interface. A computer uses a keyboard and mouse (or trackpad), while a smartphone, which ditched the physical keyboard with the arrival of the first iPhone, typically relies on a virtual keyboard and touch, both of which compromise an already much smaller display.

Head-mounted displays might some day solve the screen-size issue, but the lack of a keyboard and mouse for input and navigation remains a big impediment to losing the increasingly redundant PC.

This week, Apple launched the iPhone 15 and a new Apple Watch. The Apple Watch has even less screen real estate (by a lot) than the iPhone, but it now come with a new feature that could up-end things: a double-tap capability that could open the door to a new interface that replaces the keyboard and mouse and will work with a head-mounted display like the upcoming Apple Vision Pro.

Lets explore.

The double tap

The double-tap feature, which has been available as a little-known Accessibility option for a while, allows an Apple Watch user to execute a command without touching their watch or phone by just tapping their fingers together twice. The phone isnt involved (thats how Microsoft handled a similar problem with HoloLens). The tapping motion is based on wrist movements instead. While initially this particular maneuver is limited to one gesture, theres no reason a wide variety of other gestures couldnt emerge.

Imagine if you could communicate with your device using one hand instead of two; you could create documents at twice the speed you do now (and thats without AI finishing words and sentences for you, which would be even faster). You would only need a smartphone and a headset instead of a full-fledged PC to get your work done.

American Sign Language vs. keyboard and mouse

Years ago, I trained to use American Sign Language (ASL)  not to communicate with people who had hearing problems but so I could communicate in loud environments (where I was basically deaf). ASL uses a variety of mainly one-handed gestures.

This is where it gets interesting.

Typically, you need to be able to sign at a speed of 110 to 130 words per minute to have a conversation, while professional typists type at between 43 and 95 words per minute. This was news to me when I first learned it. But think of the implications of moving from typing to sign language: youd see a significant positive impact on productivity and the side benefits of being able to better communicate in noisy environments and with those who have hearing impairments.

For computing-related tasks, youd still need something like a mouse. But new head-mounted displays like the Apple Vision Pro have eye tracking, so you can use your eyes to move the mouse and that double tap gesture to select what ever is highlighted by your eye cursor.

ASL vs. voice

People can speak at 110 to 150 words per minute, but at those higher speeds, they become harder to follow. While speech-to-text has been highlighted as another way to replace the keyboard on a small device, you still have to deal with uncomfortable and relatively unattractive accessories that go over your mouth. Even with virtual reality, which makes sense for gaming and collaboration, this solution is an ugly keyboard replacement. And the same kinds of problems (think punctuation) exist for sign language and voice. (Fortunately, we now have AI tools that can analyze whats said and add punctuation.)

There may be a way to use the double-tap technology Apple demonstrated this week to create some kind of voice capture  youd move your lips and tongue silently to create text. But Im not aware of anyone working on this kind of solution yet.

A game-changing gesture

I think Apples double-tap is a potential game changer for how we interact with technology. Even in this initial use, where it only does one thing, it makes the Apple Watch far more useful. And if it can be made to capture more complex gestures like those required for sign language, it could evolve to be the next great human/machine interface. That would finally allow the smartphone to rise to its potential and displace the PC with a far more portable device and experience.

Well see whether Apple goes in that direction. If it doesnt, someone else will almost certainly innovate to create the next mobile revolution. Smartphones are on a path to displace PCs, and Apples double-tap gesture, coupled with the Vision Pro, point toward one interesting way to get there.
The European Union is reportedly planning to move forward with a formal complaint against the way Microsoft sells Teams, even though the company publicly announced in August it would start unbundling the collaboration app from Office and Microsoft 365 packages in Europe.

Under the proposed plan, Microsoft would separate out Teams and sell its 365 application suites to customers within in the EU for a discounted annual rate, starting October 1.

These changes  are designed to address two concerns that are central to the Commissions investigation: that customers should be able to choose a business suite without Teams at a price less than those with Teams included; and that we should do more to make interoperability easier between rival communication and collaboration solutions and Microsoft 365 and Office 365 suites, Microsoft said in a blog post announcing the changes.

However, these changes have not done enough to satisfy regulators and the European Commission  the executive and regulatory branch of the EU  is now preparing a statement of objections to send to the company, according to a report from Bloomberg.

The European Commission said it had no comment to make on the matter, while Microsoft highlighted the proposal made by the company on August 31 when it announced the unbundling of Teams.

The original competition complaint was filed by team-chat software rival Slack in July 2020, alleging that Microsoft was engaging in the illegal and anti-competitive practice of abusing its market dominance to extinguish competition in breach of European Union competition law by tying its Teams product to the Office productivity suite, force installing it for millions, blocking its removal, and hiding the true cost to enterprise customers.

Microsoft facing multiple EU regulatory investigations

The antitrust complaint isnt the only EU investigation Microsoft is currently grappling with. The most recent regulatory point of contention in the region arose at the start of September, when Microsoft argued that its Bing search engine should not be regulated under the EUs Digital Markets Act (DMA) legislation.

The DMA targets large companies called "gatekeepers"  that provide core platform services and are most likely to enact unfair business practices. This includes companies with a market capitalization of at least 75 billion ($81 billion) or sales in Europe of over 7.5 billion, at least 45 million monthly users in the EU, and which provide certain applications such as web browsers, virtual assistants, and messaging or social media services.

Microsoft contended that Bing should not be subject to the same regulatory obligations as its rival Google as it only has around a 3% market share. The company also voiced concerns that under the obligations placed on platforms by the DMA, Microsoft would be required to give users the choice of other search engines, which the company argues could offer a further boost in market share for Google.

The Commission has since published its list of gatekeepers, of which Microsoft has been designated one due to Windows PC OS meeting the criteria. However, Bing was not included in the list.

The Commission has opened four market investigations to further assess Microsoft's submissions arguing that, despite meeting the thresholds, some of [its] core platform services do not qualify as gateways, the Commission said in a statement, adding that the investigation should be completed within a maximum of five months.

Regulators globally appear to be heeding concerns about what is perceived to be the increasing power of the world's biggest tech companies to use their dominant market positions to stifle competition. A headline-grabbing example of the trend happened this week, when the biggest US antitrust case of the century so far headed to trial, as the federal government and a group of state attorneys general challenge Googles dominance in search.
Singapore president Tharman takes charge; survey shows young Singaporeans ready for non-Chinese prime minister

Today, the new President of Singapore, Indian-origin former Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, takes oath of office. Yesterday, the results of a YouGov survey were published, showing that the large majority of young Singaporeans  classified as Millennials and Generation Z  believe that the nation state is ready for an ethnic minority Prime Minister, provided the candidate has the right qualifications.

The new President of Singapore, Indian-origin former Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, during his hugely successful campaign in August 2023. The pineapple is his presidential campaign symbol. Photo courtesy: Instagram/tharman.sg

The YouGov survey statement, I believe Singapore is ready to have a qualified, ethnic minority Prime Minister, got an affirmative response from all the Singaporean ethnicities. Respondents who said yes to this survey statement were Chinese (60 per cent), Malay (73 per cent), Indian (68 per cent), and Other ethnic groups (68 per cent).

Though the two things are not directly correlated, the survey result reinforces the respect for each and everyone theme of Tharmans election campaign.

The new president, who won a landslide victory over his two rivals, taking more than 70 per cent of the votes, had said after his win, I believe the vote for me and what I stood for is a vote of confidence in Singapore itself, a vote of optimism in how we can progress together and support each other as Singaporeans.

Tharman takes office today, following the farewell for outgoing president Halimah Yacob yesterday. Posting photos of the farewell on Instagram, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong wrote: Hosted a reception at the Istana to mark the completion of President @halimahyacobs term, and to thank her for her service to our nation.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong bids farewell to outgoing president Halimah Yacob. Photo courtesy: Instagram/leehsienloong

Referring to the presidents role in the diverse nation that is Singapore, PM Lee wrote: She has worked hard to strengthen mutual understanding, trust, and respect across diverse community groups. She took an interest in many worthy causes, especially those focussed on helping the less privileged. Her efforts to expand opportunities for all have made for a more united and inclusive Singapore, where all of us belong and everyone has a part to play.

The younger people in Singapore believe in this diversity, as evident from the YouGov survey. The survey was undertaken following the election win of Tharman, and the respondents were 1,000 Singapore citizens, aged 21 and above, all interviewed between September 8 and 11, 2023.
Lachlan Summers at Noema:

Geological time, or deep time, as Robert MacFarlane describes it in his wonderful book Underland, is the vastness of planetary history that stretches away from the present moment. While the Scottish geologist James Hutton first described the idea in 1788, the term deep time is often attributed to the nature writer John McPhee, who wrote, a couple of hundred years later: Consider the Earths history as the old measure of the English yard, the distance from the kings nose to the tip of his outstretched hand. One stroke of a nail file on his middle finger erases human history.

And yet, despite the geological timescale ostensibly rendering humans obsolete, the warming climate has brought it into everyday politics. Deep time has become an analytic frame, albeit a contested one; some argue we ought to develop it to overcome short-termism, others that we should not in order to avoid flattening history or inflating the present, and still others that we cannot due to ontological limitations.

more here.
I remember a time when lawyer was basically the easy comedy stand-in for the most morally corrupt job imaginable. They were stuck commiserating with the Polish, sewn into the punching bag of every street joke. If your occupation ever gets saddled with a joke like Whats the difference between a lawyer and a bucket of shit? The bucket, its a pretty good sign that youre not killing it in the popularity department. Nowadays, though, you hear a lot less of that. Partly, I think, because theres such a wealth of horrendous people loudly spouting bullshit that theyre not so prominent a target.

Another might be that one of the biggest boogeymen attributed to law and lawsuits in the late 20th century, the frivolous, predatory lawsuit, has fallen by the wayside. Given that the victim of these so-called cash grabs was usually a massive corporation, I doubt theyd even be able to muster up more than a middle finger from most people today. Often, it was that same access to an unending PR budget that let corporations control the narrative of these lawsuits being dumb as opposed to just nightmarish in a strange way, which they very often were.

To that end, here are four frivolous lawsuits that actually werent

4 McDonalds Hot Coffee Pixabay Now imagine that steam rising from your ruined genitals. The crown jewel of the fake frivolous lawsuit and possibly one of the most diabolically successful PR spins of all time is the woman who was burned by hot McDonalds coffee. She was the butt of jokes for years, whether from late-night hosts or politicians pushing for tort reform. The result of her seeking out compensation for what were genuine injuries resulted in a nationwide point-and-laugh campaign that feels like something that deserves punitive damages in itself. Advertisement See, the descriptor hot is shockingly broad. You can use it to describe both a delightful bowl of soup and molten steel, which is quite a spectrum. The reason that the woman in question sued was because the coffee McDonalds served was closer to smelting temperature than anything that should be casually handed to someone in an insulating cup. Specifically, it was close to 190 degrees. A fast-food restaurant handing someone a cup of 190-degree liquid isnt a safe idea in the first place, doubly or triply so when the person in question doesnt know the contents of the cup are on the cusp of literally boiling. So, when the cup fatefully tipped over (while parked, onto Stella Liebeck, who was in the passenger seat), she didnt receive the minor, yowch-inducing scald of your usual mishandled coffee. She received third-degree burns across her legs and genitals, which is the absolute bottom of the list of preferred burn targets, and required hospitalization and surgery. She didnt even ask for anything more than the payment of her $20,000 medical bills at first, but escalated to a lawsuit when Mickey Ds counter-offer was $800. Forget a white-picket fence, is there anything more American than a hospital bill and a team of corporate lawyers trying to fuck you sideways at the same time? Advertisement

3 Phone Booth Company Sued Over Drunk Driver Pixabay Hey man, I  ve gotta go. A Chevy Tahoe that reeks of tequila is hurtling toward me. A guy is in a phone booth when a drunk driver plows into it, and he sues the phone booth company? What in tarnation?!?! The first time you hear that, if you have even an iota of critical thinking in your sopping wet little brain, youd think, There has to be more to the story. Unfortunately for the victim, people much prefer the entertaining tale of a dumb, greedy idiot over a more boring tale with nuance. It didnt help that Ronald Reagan, the president at the time and a dumb asshole, made fun of the guy for being looney. Advertisement Advertisement The actual sequence of events is something pulled out of a literal nightmare. Charles Bigbee, the man in question, was using the phone booth when he saw a drunk driver heading right for him. So what did he do? Brace for impact with dollar signs in his eyes? No, he tried to get out of the fucking phone booth, but the door was broken, trapping him inside. It was also found that the phone booth company both knew this booth location was dangerous, having had a booth in the same spot destroyed by a car only 18 months earlier, and that the door in question was faulty. But hey, restoring a death-box hurts the bottom line! The company settled, and while the exact amount isnt known, Im pretty sure Bigbee would have preferred continued ownership of his fucking leg, which he lost in the crash.

2 Too Scared at a Haunted House Pixabay I can also tell you from personal experience: They get really mad if you call 911 when something jumps out at you. Advertisement Man, what a pattern emerges! Its almost like these opposing lawyers and the PR firms working with them know exactly how to omit details about their cases without ever crossing the line into lying! The spincrafters came out in full force when Cleanthi Peters sued Universal Studios for injuries sustained while visiting one of their haunted houses. The PR ghouls were so effective, in fact, that its difficult to even find the word injury in coverage. WIRED, in fact, referred to the case as a new low of litigiousness. Hope Universal Studios sees this, bro. Advertisement The best research I found on the actual details of the case comes from the website of attorney J. Price McNamara, who was similarly frustrated by the amount of bullshit on the internet about it. Ill even forgive him for the shot he takes at this very website for a slightly misleading title. Look, buddy, we gotta do what we gotta do, and this isnt the fucking Gray Lady. Nobodys checking the traffic on your legal briefs. He notes theres mentions of Peters slipping in a puddle of water while being perhaps over-vigorously pursued by an ersatz Leatherface, which he notes could have constituted grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. Period. He also tracked down a footnote in a book mentioning Peters had sued for $15,000, but the suit was settled out of court. Advertisement
Matt Sheehan in Foreign Policy:

Over the past two years, China has enacted some of the worlds earliest and most sophisticated regulations targeting AI. On the surface, these regulations are often anathema to what U.S. leaders hope to achieve. For instance, Chinas recent generative AI regulation mandates that companies uphold core socialist values, whereas Schumer has called for legislation requiring that U.S. AI systems align with our democratic values.

Yet those headline ideological differences blind us to an uncomfortable reality: The United States can actually learn a lot from Chinas approach to governing AI. Of course, Washington shouldnt require that AI systems adhere to the correct political direction, as one Chinese regulation mandates. But if we can look beyond the ideological content of the rules, we can learn from the underlying structure of the regulations and the process by which China has rolled them out. If taken seriously, those structure- and process-oriented lessons could be invaluable as U.S. leaders navigate a morass of AI issues over the coming years.

More here.
The personal details of an unknown number of Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officers have been exposed after a third-party supplier was targeted in a cyberattack. The attacked firm, which makes ID cards, holds information on various UK organisations, including some staff employed by GMP. The incident is the latest in a slew of data breaches impacting UK police in the last few weeks.

GMP has reported the ransomware attack to the ICO

In a statement, ACC Colin McFarlane of GMP said: "We are aware of a ransomware attack affecting a third-party supplier of various UK organisations, including GMP, which holds some information on those employed by GMP." At this stage, it's not believed this data includes financial information, he added.

"We understand how concerning this is for our employees so, as we work to understand any impact on GMP, we have contacted the Information Commissioners Office [ICO] and are doing everything we can to ensure employees are kept informed, their questions are answered, and they feel supported. This is being treated extremely seriously, with a nationally led criminal investigation into the attack."

An anonymous officer told the BBC that, while the names of many officers were publicly available, there is particular concern regarding the identities of undercover officers.

UK police suffer series of data breaches

The GMP data breach comes just a couple of weeks after the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) said it was investigating a possible data breach following "unauthorised access" to the systems of one of its suppliers. In the same month, the Norfolk and Suffolk police constabularies disclosed the accidental exposure of personal data belonging to more than 1,000 individuals, including victims of crime. The agencies said they identified an issue relating to a very small percentage of responses to Freedom of Information (FOI) requests for crime statistics, issued between April 2021 and March 2022.

A few days prior, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) admitted to suffering two separate data breaches. The first centered on the exposure of information on serving police officers and civilians in response to an FOI request from a member of the public relating to officer rank and staff grades. An error led to the sharing of a large Excel spreadsheet containing the surnames and initials of current employees alongside the location and department within which they work. The second involved the theft of documents including a spreadsheet containing the names of more than 200 serving police officers and staff from a private vehicle in the Newtownabbey area in Northern Ireland.
British Pound, GBP/USD, Technical Analysis, Retail Trader Positioning  IGCS Update

British Pound has been stabilizing against US Dollar

Retail traders have been slowing becoming bearish

Will GBP/USD reverse higher on the 200-day MA?

Recommended by Daniel Dubrovsky Get Your Free GBP Forecast Get My Guide

The British Pound has been marking time in recent weeks, pausing a slow and steady decline against the US Dollar since July. That said, retail traders are increasing downside exposure of late. This can be seen by looking at IG Client Sentiment (IGCS), which often functions as a contrarian indicator. With that in mind, will Sterling reverse higher?

GBP/USD Sentiment Outlook  Bullish

The IGCS gauge shows that about 62% of retail traders are net-long GBP/USD. Since most of them are biased to the upside, this still hints that prices may continue falling down the road. But, downside exposure has increased by 5.22% and 9.71% compared to yesterday and last week, respectively. With that in mind, recent changes in exposure are hinting that prices may soon reverse higher.

GBP/USD Mixed Data provided by of clients are net long. of clients are net short.

Change in Longs Shorts OI Daily 0% -8% -2% Weekly 0% 5% 1%

British Pound Daily Chart

On the daily chart, GBP/USD remains technically biased lower in the aftermath of confirming a breakout under a bearish Head & Shoulders chart formation. But, since then, prices have been stabilizing around the 200-day Moving Average. The latter is thus maintaining the dominant upside focus.

A turn higher from here would place the focus on the neckline of the chart formation around 1.2592. Confirming a breakout above this point would undermine the Head & Shoulders, exposing the left shoulder around 1.2848.

Otherwise, breaking under the 200-day MA exposes the May low of 1.2308 as subsequent support.

Recommended by Daniel Dubrovsky How to Trade GBP/USD Get My Guide

Chart Created in Trading View

--- Written by Daniel Dubrovsky, Senior Strategist for DailyFX.com
Which part of Take Back Control doesn't Keir Starmer understand? His latest crackpot idea to stop the small boats crossing the Channel is to let the EU decide how many migrants Britain must accept every year.

Of course, he doesn't put it quite like that. He speaks of mutually agreeing a quota system to share the burden with our European 'partners'.

In exchange for Britain taking in around 120,000 of the one million migrants who arrive in Europe every year, the Labour leader believes that Brussels will graciously allow us to send back those who have no legitimate right to move here.

Who's he trying to kid? The chances of the French government, for instance, taking back anyone who makes it via France to Britain from North Africa, Afghanistan or the Middle East are less than zero.

We know to our cost where 'co-operation' with the French leads. It's a one-way street. Despite bunging France the thick end of 750 million to stop the people-smuggling dinghies taking to sea, still they launch several times a day, while the gendarmes simply shrug and smoke their Gauloises.

Keir Starmer's latest crackpot idea to stop the small boats crossing the Channel is to let the EU decide how many migrants Britain must accept every year

Meanwhile the French Navy escorts the boats to the middle of the Channel, where they are handed over to Britain's Border Force for safe passage. As Sue Reid reported in yesterday's Mail, the transfer is smooth as silk.

Boarding complete. P.O.B. See you next time, mon ami. Doors to manual.

(Border Force now brings more people across the Channel than P&O Ferries. Perhaps it should start knocking out Duty Free to offset some of the running costs.)

Anyway, we had a returns agreement in place when we were still in the EU, which involved Britain taking in three times as many migrants as we were theoretically permitted to deport.

How did that work out, then? In 2019, just 21 people were returned to France - and they were probably on the first boat back the following day.

More to the point, why would the EU do a deal with the UK when they can't even agree among themselves? As record numbers float across the Med from Africa to the Italian island of Lampedusa, Germany is refusing to admit any more migrants from Italy.

If Balham is the Gateway To The South, then Lampedusa is the Gateway To The North, which is where most of the recent arrivals are headed.

In response the French - who claim it's impossible, monsieur, to prevent migrants casting off from the beaches of Calais bound for Britain - have doubled patrols on the Italian border to block them from entering France.

The French Navy escorts the boats to the middle of the Channel, where they are handed over to Britain's Border Force for safe passage (Pictured: stock photo of French Navy vessel)

Poland, Hungary and the rest of the Eastern bloc have already pulled up the drawbridge.

The only reason the EU would pay lip-service to a deal with Starmer is so they can shift a hefty chunk of the migrants landing in Lampedusa and elsewhere in Southern Europe on to Britain, pronto.

The rest of Starmer's masterplan involves scrapping the Rwanda deportation plan and overturning the government's decision to prevent migrants who arrive illegally from applying for asylum in Britain.

He says the 140 million we've sent to Rwanda should be given to the National Crime Agency - Britain's FBI - to 'smash' the people-smuggling gangs.

But only this week the NCA admitted that without a deterrent such as Rwanda, all attempts to stop the small boats were doomed to failure. Perhaps Starmer was gelling his hair that day.

Despite bunging France the thick end of 750 million to stop the people-smuggling dinghies taking to sea, still they launch several times a day

He seems to think that once migrants are offered 'safe and legal routes' to Britain - the Left's tiresome mantra - they won't need to make the hazardous Channel crossing.

Nope, they'll just hop on the Eurostar and apply for asylum on arrival, which under Labour will be granted automatically, no questions asked.

Meanwhile, the boats will keep on coming. The people smugglers aren't going to give up on such a lucrative trade in human exploitation.

Starmer's solution is to treat the gangs as terrorists and cement closer co-operation between the NCA and European intelligence services to hunt them down and put them out of business.

What does he think they've been doing for the past few years. Hasn't he ever heard of Interpol, of which Britain is still a member? Hundreds of people smugglers have been arrested in Europe, but it hasn't even scratched the surface.

Starmer likes to remind everyone that he used to be the Director of Public Prosecutions

Starmer likes to remind everyone that he used to be the Director of Public Prosecutions and pose as a ruthless crime fighter. But we're not talking J Edgar Hoover here.

The truth is that he's just another Left-wing yuman rites lawyer from the top of his ridiculous quiff to the tip of his loafers. The idea that somehow a Labour government led by him would be best equipped to tackle illegal immigration is risible.

Every single deterrent put forward by this government has been fiercely opposed by Starmer and his compadres in the yuman rites brigade. He voted against legislation aimed at stopping the boats and supported the decision of a faceless, unelected, unaccountable foreign judge to halt the Rwanda flights.

Starmer would never contemplate withdrawing from the European Convention on Human Rights, which is the only realistic way we're ever going to get a grip on this crisis.

That's not to say that the Conservatives haven't been equally useless and craven in the face of concerted opposition to cutting the numbers.

Starmer regularly takes advice from Tony Blair (pictured: left) and Peter Mandelson, two of the architects of open borders and mass immigration

But Starmer's laughable 'Tough On Migrants, Tough On The Causes Of Migrants' posturing could have come straight from the New Labour songbook.

In fact, it did. Starmer regularly takes advice from Tony Blair and Peter Mandelson, two of the architects of open borders and mass immigration.

Mandelson once boasted about 'sending out search parties' for migrants  to 'rub the Right's noses in diversity' according to a top Labour aide. Blair promised that no more than 13,000 people would come here from Eastern Europe when he threw open the doors in 2004. Several millions later....

Since the New Labour landslide in 1997, Britain's population has increased by an unsustainable nine million. Admittedly, the Tories have cynically gone along with it as a source of cheap labour. But it was Labour which deliberately set about tearing up our borders.

Immigration was one of the deciding factors in Britain voting Leave in 2016. We were promised that we would be taking back control. That it hasn't happened is a disgrace, for which successive Conservative governments must take responsibility.

Peter Mandelson once boasted about 'sending out search parties' for migrants  to 'rub the Right's noses in diversity'

But it isn't all about illegal crossings in small boats. It's the sheer weight of numbers, putting untold strain on everything from housing to public services.

The tens of thousands arriving across the Channel may hog the headlines but they pale into insignificance alongside those arriving legally. Those much-vaunted 'safe and legal routes' beloved by the yuman rights lobby already exist.

Last year, more than a million people from overseas were granted visas to live and work in Britain. The net immigration figure was just over 600,000, but only by taking into account foreign nationals who left and thousands upon thousands of British citizens who decided they'd had enough and it was time to get out of Dodge.

And it's not over yet. If and when Starmer becomes PM, the floodgates will open still wider. His solution to cutting illegal immigration is to increase immigration overall.

He may claim now that he has no intention of rejoining the European Union and reinstating freedom of movement. But I for one don't believe a word of it.

As I wrote here a couple of days ago, a Starmer government would take us back into the EU in all but name. Don't forget he was a die-hard Remainer and led the cynical, anti-democratic campaign for a second referendum.

Why else would he even entertain the notion that the way to solve the small boats crisis is to allow the EU, not Westminster or the British people, decide how many migrants we must accept?

If he gets away with that, it's only a matter of time before we're back to being a fully paid-up supplicant of Brussels, whatever it says on the tin. And this time, he'd have no need of a referendum.

Starmer doesn't believe in taking back control. He wants to Give Back Control... to the EU.
Britain is in the midst of a labour crisis. It's not a shortage of workers, nor their quality. It's that worryingly few people seem interested in doing any work - even many of those in employment.

We urgently need a dedicated, responsive and mobile workforce. Instead, we seem to have become a nation of the workshy.

Working from home was an unwanted adjustment during Covid. It's now the new normal - with devastating consequences for productivity.

There's even a brazen new name for a remote working position - on TikTok they call it the 'lazy girl job'. Another buzz phrase dominating social media is 'quiet quitting', which means doing the bare minimum to keep your job and nothing more - so no helping others with additional tasks or checking emails outside work hours.

I pride myself on being a good employer: I pay people well, reward long service and don't bother anyone unnecessarily when they are not on duty. But hospitality is a 24/7 business and my father expected me to be present at all hours as I worked my way up. It is perfectly reasonable to require people to be present in a workplace and to contact them outside of normal hours if a situation needs them.

Sir Rocco Forte says it is increasingly clear that working from home - a massive economic experiment - leads to poorer public services (Stock Image)

And believe me, I practise what I preach. I am routinely in my office or hotels and make myself available to my colleagues day and night.

Traditionally, the British have been seen as hard workers. But this is changing, and that worries me. According to a study of 24 countries, Britons are now less likely than other nationalities to see work as 'important'.

Increasingly, they also no longer believe that hard work brings a better life.

Nearly one in five British people surveyed said that work was not important to them, the highest proportion among the 24 countries, which included France, Sweden, America, Nigeria and China.

Britons were also among the least likely to say that work should come first over leisure time, according to the research by the Policy Institute at King's College London.

This worrying trend is epitomised by new figures released by HMRC, obtained under Freedom of Information laws. As many as two in five workers at regional HMRC centres did not go into the office at all in the year to March.

This extraordinary situation has inevitably led to dire customer service.

Things have got so desperate that a special team has allegedly been assembled to work through a backlog of thousands of letters, unanswered for over a year.

As the Public Accounts Committee, a Commons spending watchdog, said earlier this year, customer service at the tax office has reached 'unacceptable' levels.

The taxman's Liverpool office had the lowest level of attendance, with only one in three staff averaging a day a week in the office, while at the HMRC's Cardiff HQ, 39 per cent of staff shunned the workplace. And remember, you're the one paying these people's generous wages.

This picture is reflected across the civil service, and ministers seem unable or unwilling to do anything about it. Government departments are on average half-empty, according to official statistics. Last month, not a single one had more than two-thirds of staff at their desks - a culture epitomised by the former senior mandarin at the Treasury, Tom Scholar, who was allegedly allowed to work remotely from Argentina.

As many as two in five workers at regional HMRC centres did not go into the office at all in the year to March (Stock Image)

He is far from the only one. As the Mail reported earlier this month, council bosses have approved more than 1,350 requests for staff to work overseas in destinations including Spain, Australia, Dubai, Brazil and India. Even as its staff resist a return to the workplace, the public sector has grown by an extraordinary 133,000 in the past year alone. The Blob continues to bloat.

What is the result of all this? Well, as you'd expect, productivity in the sector is down 9.8 per cent on pre-pandemic levels. It is increasingly clear that working from home  a massive economic experiment  leads to poorer public services. The work-from-home culture is sadly still prevalent across the private sector, too.

In my hotels most workers need to be present to look after our customers. However, I have noticed an increasing expectation of remote-working from those in back-office functions.

Of course, some jobs can be carried out remotely, and most modern employers need to offer a degree of flexibility, particularly to parents of young children.

But, it is a fact that most of us perform better in the office than our living rooms  and for millions, a 'working' day at home means doing next to no work at all.

One piece of research, released last month, found that while they were meant to be working from home, many people were taking a nap, doing DIY or even having sex.

Tragically, the British are more reluctant to go back to the office than workers in almost any other major developed economy.

The average office worker in the UK is showing up only 1.6 days a week, an attendance rate of 32 per cent. This compares with 55 per cent across the European Union, 43 per cent in Latin America and 36 per cent across the Asia-Pacific region, according to a survey published by the consultancy AWA last month.

One piece of research, released last month, found that while they were meant to be working from home, many people were taking a nap, doing DIY or even having sex (Stock Image)

The issue affects workers of all ages. Young workers and trainees are missing out on vital opportunities to learn from more experienced colleagues, and the social connections a workplace offers.

A mollycoddled generation of graduates are extremely picky about the jobs they will and won't take. Meanwhile, figures show an increasing number of Britons are stepping away from employment before they hit the State Pension age of 66.

This is causing labour shortages and holding the economy back. As Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride admits, income tax could be cut by 2p if those who left jobs during the pandemic  many of them older workers  returned to work.

Making matters even worse, the culture of long-term sickness leave from work is posing a serious threat to the public finances. The number of people out of work due to poor health is at an all-time high of 2.6 million. There may be a legacy of the pandemic but it seems that many people are playing the system.

How else can we explain the fact that other economies have bounced back from the pandemic  with the inactivity rate falling, on average, by 0.4 percentage points across the OECD, while in Britain it carries on climbing?

This isn't just some point of principle. A country that doesn't work hard is one where living standards fall, there's less money in people's pockets and the health of the nation deteriorates.

While the Government shows no inclination to tackle these problems, Labour would make them even worse. Leaked manifesto proposals from the Opposition suggested it was planning to make flexible working 'the default from day one for all workers'.

Labour has even proposed the eccentric brainwave of a 'legal right to switch off', banning bosses from contacting employees during their evenings, weekends and holidays. This is just the sort of measure that will further cripple businesses by reducing their productivity and making them less competitive.

There is an urgent need to change Britain's workshy attitude and get millions back to the office. Until that happens, there is no hope of the economy ever recovering.
We philosophers are used to asking difficult questions. How do I know other people exist? Is the universe real? Do I have free will?

But in the strange times we live in, one question  at least to some people  seems to be even more perplexing.

What is a woman?

As a philosophy professor of 28 years' standing, I was delighted when Oxford University Press (OUP), arguably the world's most prestigious academic publishing house, enthusiastically accepted my proposal in 2020 for a book on the philosophy of sex and gender: Trouble With Gender  Sex Facts, Gender Fictions.

I wanted to probe some of the great quandaries of our time: 'What is gender?', 'What is a woman?', 'Is sex binary?', 'What is gender identity?', 'Why do some people transition from man to woman, or vice versa?' But if I thought that this prestigious publisher was brave enough to pursue difficult subjects in the spirit of free intellectual inquiry, I was mistaken.

Emma Watson is said to have distanced herself from J.K. Rowling over the authors views on trans issues (Pictured: The Harry Potter cast with the author in 2009)

In the end, OUP simply couldn't countenance my inescapable but heretical conclusion in the book  that women are adult human females.

I had made it abundantly clear that the book would not take a stand on political and social issues  trans women in female sports, for example. It was instead supposed to be a lively and accessible tour of central questions about sex and gender, demonstrating that the tools of philosophy can bring light instead of heat.

As I started to write, an OUP editor told me that my book would be 'an important one'. I was drawing on anthropology, sociology, psychology, sexology and biology, as well as philosophy. But one connecting thread ran through every chapter: the fact that humans, like many animals, come in significantly different male and female forms.

This is crucial to dispelling the modern swirl of confusion around gender.

Perhaps naively, I thought that all this could prove an important subject for lively philosophical study. Most book-buyers are inquisitive people who want to be provoked and challenged, and are willing to change their views if the evidence is strong.

Yet when I delivered the text exactly as promised, OUP changed its tune entirely. To my shock and dismay, the publisher rejected my manuscript, alleging that the book did not treat the subject 'in a sufficiently serious and respectful way'.

This, as anyone who reads it could tell you, was frankly absurd. I was not even offered the courtesy of making revisions, as an author typically would be.

It appears that my offence was seemingly to be open-minded  a prerequisite for any philosopher  rather than to have written with foregone conclusions.

What has happened when a great publishing institution is too fearful to produce books that explore challenging topics?

The ferocious arguments around trans rights were a niche issue a decade ago. Today, they form one of the great debates of our society.

The children's author J.K. Rowling has drawn extraordinary criticism for her view that the biological differences between men and women sometimes matter to social policy

I have taken a deep professional interest in this area for about five years, and in 2020 I published a paper in a philosophical journal, asking: 'Are women adult human females?'

In this, I made it clear that, whatever view one takes, trans people, like all human beings, deserve to be treated with respect, and to live their lives free of discrimination and prejudice.

Nevertheless, I carefully set out six clear reasons why 'adult human female' was the correct way to define 'woman'. This caused some controversy, but none of the counter-arguments I received from my fellow philosophers were to my mind at all persuasive.

The fact is: the battle lines in this debate were firmly drawn years ago. As time has gone on, people have only been driven further apart. The children's author J.K. Rowling has drawn extraordinary criticism for her view that the biological differences between men and women sometimes matter to social policy, even though her language has always been respectful.

Yet many people who owed their careers to Rowling, such as the Harry Potter actors Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe, were quick to distance themselves not only from her views  but from the woman herself.

In the gender wars, there is no middle ground  and anyone who attempts to find it is condemned as a traitor. The controversy reminds me of religious schisms in medieval times.

Just look at the treatment of the historian Nigel Biggar, ditched by his publisher Bloomsbury, which had commissioned his book Colonialism: A Moral Reckoning in 2019. Professor Biggar's book argued that, though the British Empire certainly caused great harm in many ways, there is also much to be said on the 'credit' side of the ledger. Eventually published by William Collins, it became a No 1 bestseller.

Bloomsbury may have been spineless but it at least has the excuse that it's a commercial publisher  and can't risk provoking the cancel culture mob.

Just look at the treatment of the historian Nigel Biggar (pictured), ditched by his publisher Bloomsbury, which had commissioned his book Colonialism: A Moral Reckoning in 2019

The non-commercial OUP, the flagship press of one of the world's greatest universities, ought to be a bulwark against intolerance, instead of a pushover for culture warriors. The hostility of activists on social media should be seen as a compelling cause for publication, not a reason to back down.

But, as I have learned, the publishing industry is especially vulnerable to wokeness.

It is staffed almost exclusively by graduates, and in many universities freedom of speech is regarded as a toxic privilege espoused by the extreme Right-wing, used to punch down on the marginalised. Dissident voices are rarely heard on the campus.

I worry this attitude is being carried into large parts of the publishing world. Younger members of staff are simply not equipped for open debate and disagreement.

Still, one thing my experience has taught me is that some publishers do have a backbone.

My new publisher, Polity  which gladly accepted my manuscript  is one. Another reassuring thing I have learned is that there are many courageous people who value free speech and who are not afraid to put their careers or reputations on the line  such as the philosopher Kathleen Stock and J.K. Rowling herself.

My aim was to show we can discuss one of the most contentious issues of our times calmly and reasonably. I wanted to bring evidence and reason to bear on tricky questions about sex and gender that everyone is asking.

To Oxford University Press, such an idea was apparently unacceptable. And that's a very troubling situation for us all.

Trouble With Gender  Sex Facts, Gender Fictions by Professor Alex Byrne, of Massachusetts Institute of Technology, will be published by Polity Press on October 27.
Imagine you're a young woman who has worked for years to qualify as a doctor.

You've always been top of your class, considered quite brilliant in your technical skills and rapport with patients.

You're so highly regarded, you've managed to fulfil your ambition to become a surgeon. You come to work, ready to carry out a complicated operation.

You undress and don the thin, cotton scrubs. On with the cap, the mask, the gloves over the carefully scrubbed hands, ready to enter theatre and begin.

Then a male colleague rubs himself against you and says: 'You probably felt my erection then and I can see down your top.'

Philippa Jackson, a consultant plastic surgeon, was subjected to sexual harassment in the operating theatre

Later, you have to work with the same man on an emergency operation, where his sexual advances become even more overt.

This is what Philippa Jackson, a consultant plastic surgeon, had to endure.

Her complaint to management led to a superficial investigation. She was made to feel it was her fault. The man was not suspended. She left for another job.

Sadly, Philippa is far from alone. A new research paper published in the British Journal of Surgery has concluded that sexual misconduct is rife.

Eleven female surgeons reported being raped, nearly a third have been sexually assaulted by a colleague over the past five years, and two thirds of women report having been sexually harassed by a colleague in or around the operating theatre.

Hold on. Are we talking 21st-century medicine here? Or harking back to the 1954 film Doctor In The House?

There the bullying senior surgeon Sir Lancelot Spratt appeared to run a boys' club, where the members were young men with few interests apart from drinking, flirting with women and playing rugby.

In the 1954 film Doctor In The House? the bullying senior surgeon Sir Lancelot Spratt appeared to run a boys' club, where the members were young men with few interests apart from drinking, flirting with women and playing rugby

No young nurse was safe from their advances. And there certainly weren't any female doctors.

I suspect today's men would prefer that there were still no women challenging them in the medical profession.

Surgery remains one of the most male-dominated parts of medicine.

Women make up more than half the places at medical school, but only 28 per cent of surgeons are female.

At the top the numbers are even smaller  only 15 per cent of consultants are women.

I know from a friend how horrific this state of affairs can be. Her aim was to become a superb heart surgeon. The life of the brother of one of her friends had been saved as a baby by such a doctor.

It was a skill she was determined to perfect. For five years she endured an atmosphere that became unbearable.

One senior surgeon would constantly insist that she shouldn't be bothering. Surgery was not a job for a woman. The hours would make it impossible for her to do her job and raise a family.

In Doctor in the House, no young nurse was safe from the surgeons' advances. And there weren't any female doctors

Her questions about how he managed to do the job and raise a family were studiously ignored. He laughed when she asked him not to call her 'babe'.

Like all trainee female surgeons, she found the theatre had been designed with men in mind.

She's shorter than most of her male colleagues and sometimes had to stand on a box because the operating table was high and could not be lowered to suit her.

Even the instruments used in an operation seemed, she said, to have been designed for the size of a man's hand.

It was another senior consultant who finally made her decide to quit. She'd been preparing to work with him on a tricky case.

As she put on her gown, he sidled up behind her and offered to tie it up for her  a common practice among surgeons.

She didn't expect his arms to surround her and feel him fondling her breasts while kissing the back of her neck.

It was the last straw. She knew there was no point in complaining to management.

Jenni believes it's time to take a scalpel to the misogyny in the operating theatre

As we saw in the case of the killer neonatal nurse Lucy Letby, they tend not to encourage any scandal emerging from their hospitals.

She knew her complaint of sexual harassment would be dismissed. She also knew making any complaint about a senior consultant would risk her losing any chance of advancement in her career.

All young doctors are dependent upon the patronage of their seniors to make progress.

So, as too many others had done before her, she left. She won't be a superb heart surgeon, saving the lives of desperately sick babies.

She's still a doctor, indeed a consultant, but she stays well away from the theatre and runs a team which specialises in the medical rather than the surgical side of the business.

She's very good at it and enjoys her job, but she'll never forgive the men who consistently undermined her ambition.

I'll never forgive them either, because they may be denying me and any other patients of being operated on by a woman.

I can't complain about any of the surgeons who've operated on my hips, breast, stomach and broken ankle.

They've all been charming men, but I dread to think what might have been going on in theatre while I was out cold. No hanky panky I hope, but who knows?

What's most galling is that we may be missing out on the best surgical care.

Studies carried out in Canada and Sweden found that patients seen by female surgeons had significantly better outcomes, with fewer problems post-op.

It's time to take a scalpel to the misogyny in the operating theatre  and accept that women might just be better at the job.

Can you really blame kids, Meghan?

Meghan Markle cited getting their 'little ones settled' as the reason she arrived late to Prince Harry's Invictus games in Dusseldorf

Come off it, Meghan. Three days late for your husband Harry's proudest moment and using the kids as an excuse?

'Sorry I'm a little late for the party, but I had to get our little ones settled... three milkshakes and a school drop-off,' she told the Invictus audience.

Surely the couple's staff are qualified to make drinks and do the school run.

Sorry, but this is not borrowing, it's stealing

Is it any wonder the rate of shoplifting is going through the roof when young people are being encouraged to see it not as stealing, but as 'borrowing'.

The video sharing app TikTok has 'borrowing tips and tricks' advising which stores are easiest to steal from and which have the most efficient security.

Yet another horror of social media. Thieving is not borrowing, it's a crime. Let's be clear on that one.

Actor Hugh Jackman believes we should only give 85 per cent of our effort to avoid burnout

The actor Hugh Jackman says we should all give only 85 per cent of our effort to avoid burnout.

And a new study by academics in Arizona seems to back him up.

I couldn't disagree with him more. I've never given less than 100 per cent and it's never done me any harm.

My money's on Angela this year

Jenni is backing newsreader, writer and presenter Angela Rippon to win Strictly Come Dancing this year

So, Strictly starts on Saturday, and my money is on one Angela Rippon. She's a goddess. There is nothing she can't do.

She has been there forever, reading the news beautifully, presenting programmes and surprising the whole country when she revealed her legs and her dancing skills on Morecambe and Wise in 1976.

She's 78 and can still do the splits! If she doesn't carry off the trophy, I shall eat my feather boa.

Older people are encouraged to join a book club to beat the blues. Not for me, I'm afraid.

You're never lonely when you're curled up alone with a great book you've chosen. There can't be much worse than being told what you must read.
But some cautioned that her approach can cause permanent hair damage

The socialite, 25, revealed how she achieves her signature ultra-sleek updo

Sofia Richie has finally heeded her fans' pleas to reveal the technique behind her ultra slicked-back updo that has become the socialite's signature look - but while her tutorial has sparked a wave of copycat videos, it's also prompted hairstylists to issue a serious warning about the damage the 'do can cause to your hair.

The 25-year-old newlywed took to TikTok earlier this month to lay out the step-by-step approach to what she dubbed her 'sleek lazy girl bun', a look that has become her signature style in recent months.

The updo feels especially on-brand for Sofia, with the concept, execution and results neatly dovetailing with the model's reputation as the original face of 'quiet luxury' - that is, a personal aesthetic defined by understated yet undeniable glamour.

But while the internet has been captivated by her technique, her styling tips have prompted some experts to speak out about the potential for Sofia's approach to cause damage to your hair.

Sofia Richie, 25, posted a TikTok in response to fans' pleas for her to demonstrate the technique behind her signature slicked-back updo - that she's dubbed her 'sleek lazy girl bun'

The hairstyle has become the socialite's signature look, neatly dovetailing with her 'quiet luxury' aesthetic

Sofia said she preferred to start off with wet hair (left) - a move that would illicit warnings from TikTok beauty gurus. She then makes a 'strong center part' (right)

The model teased apart the hair around either side of her face from the rest of her long locks

'Over just the years of doing it, I've gotten really good and I have a really easy technique,' Sofia began her tutorial video before launching into the demo.

She also made a point of starting the process with wet hair - a recommendation that would stir up respectful protests from many TikTok beauty gurus, warning of how 'damaging' it can be to manipulate wet hair.

In any case, after spritzing her hair with Unite-brand detangling spray, Sofia went on to part her hair, getting a 'strong center part  right down the middle,' as she explained.

Next she recommended taking 'any regenerating hair mask' - holding up an example of a product by Christophe Robin - and slathering one's hair in it from roots to ends.

She then used a comb to draw a line from her scalp - starting just behind her ears - and down both sides of her head to separate two chunks of hair in the front, and secured each with a mini-claw clip.

After this step, she declared, 'This is the moment you decide where you want your bun to live,' before deciding she wanted a higher one for the evening.

Then taking the loose hair covering the back of her head, she meticulously combed it into submission, advising viewers to 'lock it into a ponytail' as she secured it with a band.

'Honestly, that's the hardest part. The rest is easy because you just have a little bit of hair in the front,' she said encouragingly.

Of pulling the back of her hair into a ponytail, Sofia said: 'Honestly, that's the hardest part. The rest is easy because you just have a little bit of hair in the front'

For Sofia, brushing her front locks into the existing back ponytail 'is the most satisfying part'

As the final step, Sofia twisted all her hair together into a chic knot - keeping her back to the camera to show off her finely honed twisting maneuver

She secured the finished updo with one more hair tie

On completing the steps, Sofia reiterated her preference of starting with wet hair, commenting that, as a result, 'it is so secured on to your head'

In signing off, Sofia flaunted her finished look - and took the moment to once again emphasize 'how well it stays when you start wet'

She then took an Oribe-brand hair lotion to 'seal all of these hairs down in the front.'

'This is the most satisfying part,' she said of the next step.

She then gradually brushed the front locks of hair back toward the existing ponytail - creating a flawlessly streamlined silhouette in the process.

As the last step, she gathered all of her hair together and deftly twisted it into a chic, compact coil.

'So I'm going to hold it all in the back, and I'm just going to twist... round, round, tie that down,' she narrated with her back to the camera, showing off her finely honed twisting maneuver - before fastening the bun with another hair tie.

'And honestly, because it started wet, it is so secured on to your head. It is like, truly like a helmet without being sticky and hard - I hate that.'

She also took care of flyways with additional lotion and added a final layer of oil 'for that extra sleek shine.'

Sofia showed off her her completed look an hour later, emphasizing 'how well it stays when you start wet.'

The it-girl influencer's demonstration rapidly gave way to countless TikToks of others taking a stab at the sleek 'lazy girl bun' look.

Beauty and lifestyle TikTok creator Morgan Elizabeth proved how Sofia's technique can also work on curlier hair, concluding of her successful efforts: 'Ta-freaking-da!'

TikTok creator Morgan Elizabeth demonstrated that Sofia's technique could also work on curlier hair, concluding of her successful efforts: 'Ta-freaking-da!'

Another creator Chloe Rose could also be seen 'attempting the Sofia Richie bun!' But she was less than thrilled with the results, saying of the look: 'That is giving egghead'

From the point of view (POV) of haircare experts - such as influencer Abbey Yung (pictured) - Sofia's advice to begin with wet hair was a major 'don't'

Taylor, who uses the handle @madeandtaylored, demonstrated how the look could also work on dry hair

Taylor masterfully executed Sofia's bun twisting technique

She concluded with a grin: 'And that right there is how you get a face lift and do the Sofia Richie bun - on dry hair! In a much less damaging way'

Culinary and lifestyle TikTok creator Chloe Rose could also be seen 'attempting the Sofia Richie bun!' - as her caption read - in recent days.

'This could go either way - good or bad. I've literally just washed my hair,' she began.

Chloe was less enthusiastic about the results, however, feeling that the super slicked-back hair-look was 'giving egghead.'

Meanwhile, from the point of view of haircare experts, Sofia's advice to begin with wet hair in trying out the style was a major 'don't.'

As hair and skin influencer Abbey Yung explained in her response to Sofia's TikTok: 'Wet hair is incredibly fragile and susceptible to breakage.

'But even when our hair is dry, brushing, pulling, and twisting on it, is what ultimately causes our hair to snap off. So the potential for breakage just become so much worse when you're doing all of those things to super wet hair,' she said.

'One of my favorite hairstyles to look at, but one of my least favorite for damage,' Abbey clarified in the caption.

Elsewhere, fashion and beauty guru Taylor, who is known online as @madeandtaylored, demonstrated how the look could also work on dry hair, declaring in closed-captioning over the vid: 'A *safer* Sofia Richie bun tutorial.'

'This is the perfect hair for the Sofia Richie bun - because it's dry, and disgustingly dirty,' Taylor began.

'I'm going to put one last PSA out there to please not do this style on wet hair, because it's going to break your hair,' she further prefaced her dry-hair demo.

After masterfully executing the final hair-twist-to-bun, Taylor triumphantly stated: 'And that right there is how you get a face lift and do the Sofia Richie bun - on dry hair!

'In a much less damaging way,' she concluded with a grin.
But upon arrival, it turned out it was a picture of the skyline on window shades

She and her family were led to believe they'd have view of the Manhattan skyline

A tourist has been left horrified after discovering the spectacular Manhattan view she was expecting from her hotel room window turned out to be fake.

TikTok creator Amber Shelby, from Texas, locked in a last-minute trip to New York with her husband and two young kids, booking a hotel room that had a gorgeous view of the city's iconic skyline - at least it did on its website.

However, when the family checked in and got to their room at the Fairfield Inn Staten Island, they were horrified to find their stunning scenery was actually a picture of the skyline that had been printed onto their window shades.

'Not us booking this room thinking we had a nice view,' Amber wrote on the clip, which has been viewed more than 680,000 times.

Amber Shelby's family checked into the hotel, but it wasn't what they thought it would be

But when the family checked into the Fairfield Inn Staten Island, they were horrified to find their stunning scenery was actually a picture of the skyline printed onto their window shades

In the video, she had shown a picture of what the room looked like on the website, which was a standard-looking hotel room with a gorgeous view of the skyline.

Amber then reveals the dire reality of what they were actually given, lifting up the window shade to find the stunning view went away with it.

In a follow-up video, the mom-of-two showed the 'skyline' of lower Manhattan and the World Trade Center, before pulling up the blinds to reveal the room actually looked onto the hotel carpark, with the glimpse of a park across the road.

Amber gave some more information into the accommodation disaster, telling her followers: 'We literally booked everything last week.'

The mom said she usually booked the hotel when they went on vacation, but left that task up to her significant other this time - so he may have missed some details about the view and the location of the hotel, which was on Staten Island.

'No complaints about the hotel,' she responded to a comment. 'It was just too far for my liking from the city.'

The multiple photos of the rooms on the website show a view of the waterfront and skyline - although all are from the same angle.

The website noted that images on the website 'may not fully represent the room features you booked,' although there isn't an option to book a room with or without a view.

Amber thought she and her family would be enjoying a gorgeous view of the Manhattan skyline

Instead their dreamy look out was actually of the carpark of their hotel

The closer Amber got to the window, the more obvious it was the view was fake

Upon further inspection Amber realized all the views from the hotel were of the same thing

The view vs the view she told you not to worry about: Pictured left is another view of the carpark and on the right is another photo from the hotel's website

TikTok users were in hysterics over the mistake, many asking why they booked on Staten Island in the first place, to which Amber replied they didn't realize how far out it would be.

'That look like they took the view from the ferry and put it in the window,' an observant user wrote. 'But SI isn't that bad just not much to do there.'

'Hotel-fished is crazy!!!!!!!!!' another exclaimed. 'They knew what they were doing to!!'

'Lmao I'm gone call & confirm next time! This was a first for me,' Amber said.

Last year, a young traveler went through the same ordeal, thinking she got the deal of a lifetime when she found a budget hotel boasting scenic views, but was shocked to discover a catch upon arrival.

However Miriam, from Wellington, New Zealand, checked in to her room at the Mi-Pad Hotel in Queenstown to find the supposed view was actually a live TV stream from a camera on the roof.

Luckily, she was able to laugh at the mistake, posting about the mix-up online.

'We booked a room with a view in Queenstown and it was a LIVESTREAM of the view from the top floor,' Miriam tweeted with some laughing emojis.

DailyMail.com has contacted Fairfield Inn Staten Island for comment.
Meghan Markle's engagement ring is 'currently being serviced because a setting came loose', according to PEOPLE magazine.

The Duchess of Sussex, 42, was first spotted without her enormous 140,000 sparkler, comprising of one huge Botswana diamond and two from Princess Diana's collection, back in May.

She also ditched the glittering band during her recent appearances at Prince Harry's Invictus Games in Dusseldorf, Germany, this week.

But it's now understood that the piece is being serviced after a setting came loose, according to the magazine.

Prince Harry proposed to Meghan in November 2017, with the ring comprising of a solid yellow gold band set with three diamonds.

The Duchess of Sussex (pictured) ditched the glittering band during her recent appearances at Prince Harry's Invictus Games in Dusseldorf, Germany, this week

But it's now reportedly understood that the piece is being serviced after a setting came loose. Pictured, Meghan's hands without the engagement ring while at the Invictus Games

At the time of their engagement, the Duke spoke about creating Meghan's ring with the help of jewellers Cleave and Company.

The custom design featured one diamond originally from Botswana and two smaller stones from Princess Diana's collection.

At the time, he said: 'The ring is obviously yellow gold because that's [Meghan's] favourite and the main stone itself I sourced from Botswana and the little diamonds either side are from my mother's jewellery collection, to make sure that she's with us on this crazy journey together.'

Meghan called it 'incredible', explaining: 'Everything about Harry's thoughtfulness and the inclusion of [Princess Diana's stones] and obviously not being able to meet his mom, it's so important to me to know that she's a part of this with us.'

'It's incredibly special to be able to have this [ring], which sort of links where you come form and Botswana, which is important to us. It's perfect.'

However the Duchess chose not to wear her engagement ring for a number of public engagements back in 2019 while pregnant with her son Archie.

When she appeared at Trooping the Colour that year, it emerged the Duchess had altered the custom made engagement ring that Prince Harry designed for her.

At Trooping the Colour and at her Windsor Castle photo call with Prince Harry and newborn son Archie, the Duchess wore her three engagement diamonds set on a thin micro-pave band.

At the time of their engagement (pictured), the Duke spoke about creating Meghan's ring with the help of jewellers Cleave and Company

Prince Harry proposed to Meghan in November 2017 with a glittering ring comprising of a solid yellow gold band set with three diamonds (left). This was then changed to include a micro-pave band in 2019 (right)

Jewellery expert Arabel Lebrusan confirmed the ring had changed, and suggested it had been tweaked to make the original diamonds look bigger.

Arabel, owner the ethical jewellery brand Arabel Lebrusan, called the thinner band a popular trend, revealing: 'Many celebrities do this, as the central stone looks bigger in comparison getting the wow factor.'

The jewellery expert pointed out the difference in the band, saying: 'She now has little diamonds set down the sides of her engagement ring and the band also seems thinner than before.'

She also revealed that the glittering band only emphasised the Meghan's diamonds, and added: 'The diamond setting on the band looks like micro-set, this means there is very little metal in between the stones maximising the sparkle of the tiny diamonds.'

Arabel continued that she thought the new style suited the Duchess' style 'perfectly', saying: 'It does suit her style perfectly, and it fits her dainty fingers as well.'

Leora Moreno, owner of jewellery brand Leo With Love, said at the time the changes could have been changed to match Meghan's eternity ring.

The Duchess of Sussex speaks on stage at the Friends @ Home Event at the Station Airport during day three of the Invictus Games

She explained: 'It looks like the eternity ring has a channel pave setting. The engagement ring looks to have an even smaller pave setting, but perfectly matches the eternity band.'

The jeweller went on to explain the change may have been complex, saying that it required 'fine skill and craftsmanship to change the band to something more delicate like a pave setting.'

She added that that the modern style would suit Meghan for 'years to come' and was 'the perfect combination of eye-catching and dainty'.

In 2022's Finding Freedom, Omid Scobie claimed it was the Duke who altered Meghan's ring.

In the biography, jeweller-to-the-stars Lorraine Schwartz said: "'He's the loveliest person ever. So romantic, so thoughtful.'"

The authors continued: '(So much so that Harry also thought to have Lorraine resize and reset Meghan's engagement ring with a new diamond band.)'
A travel creator has given his followers an insight into how to get flights to Italy cheaper than a cost of a meal out.

Ralph Smith, a 20-year-old who lives in the UK, made a TikTok video which racked up almost 60,000 likes.

He said: 'This is how you can fly to Italy for less than a meal out. If you've in the UK this summer, you've probably been left a little disappointed about the weather.

'However, the south of Europe stays hot for quite a bit longer.'

Ralph then urged his followers to head over to the website, Skyscanner, which is a metasearch engine and travel agency based in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Ralph Smith, a 20-year-old travel creator from the UK, made a TikTok video which racked up almost 60,000 likes

The website says they compare cheap flights to help find the best deal on your next holiday.

'If you type in London to Milan in October, as you can see, you can get flights for around 12 each way.

'And even return is 11, bringing the total cost to 23,' Ralph said.

The travel creator even gave an example of what flights you could get for the small amount of money paid.

He showed a RyanAir flight on his screen that departed at 7am from London Stanstead and arrived in Milan at 9.55am.

'Instead of spending loads of money on a fancy restaurant, head onto Google, book that flight for 23, have one or two nights in Milan and you could probably do it all for under 150.

'I went to Milan last year with three friends and honestly it was unbelievable. We didn't spend that much at all, and we still had an amazing time,' Ralph said.

He finished the video by urging his followers to check out his travel guide (https://ralphtravels.myshopify.com/).

People took to the comments to discuss their thoughts on Ralph's travel hack, with some saying that accommodation would be expensive.

The travel creator even gave an example of what flights you could get for the small amount of money paid

Ralph urged his followers to head over to the website, Skyscanner, which is a metasearch engine and travel agency based in Edinburgh , Scotland

People took to the comments to discuss their thoughts on Ralph's travel hack, with some saying that accommodation would be expensive

One wrote: 'The cost of the train to the airport and back is more than the flight.'

Another penned: 'That's how I did a day trip there back in February lol was awesome.'

A third said: 'Flight cost 10. But then Airbnb for the week costs 500.'

A fourth commented: 'I just bought a flight from London to Scotland that cost me 200.'

Ralph recently spent three months living in Melbourne, Australia, and his video listing the five things he hates about the city went viral on TikTok.

He started the video by explaining he does love the city but he finds some things super 'frustrating'.

These included 'homeless crackheads' and a 'badly put together' public transport system.
The saying one man's trash is another man's treasure couldn't be any truer for one festival goer.

Ethan Overton, 20, from Bournemouth, is one lucky guy after leaving Reading Festival with more than he bargained for.

The student took to TikTok to reveal that not only did he have a hair-raising time at the music weekender, but shortly after it was over, he stumbled on a heap of gold.

After enjoying a jam-packed weekend of fun with his mates, a curious Ethan stayed behind to scour the campsites to see what he could find.

Amidst a messy aftermath of litter and trash, he was shocked to discover a goldmine of discarded items such as luxury pillows, trainers and even stoves, which were left behind by fellow revellers. Unfortunately some people were unconvinced, with one person branding it 'disgusting'.

Ethan Overton (pictured), 20, from Bournemouth, had a swell time at Reading Festival after stumbling on a heap of gold

Amidst a messy aftermath of litter and trash, he was shocked to discover a goldmine of discarded items, including this luxury pillow

The saying one man's trash is another man's treasure couldn't be any truer for Ethan (pictured: a portable cooking stove)

In the video, Ethan can be heard saying 'It was so crazy to see how much stuff people left behind. I couldn't believe it!'

The hilarious clip shows Ethan hunting for treasure throughout a cluttered mess left behind by others at the festival.

At first glance, the scenes appear to show nothing more than folded drink cans, tissues and half eaten snacks. However upon closer inspection, a trove of goodies is unravelled before our very eyes.

Ethan discovered an air mattress, camping chairs, a luxury pillow and even a pair of fairly used sunglasses.

As he made his way around the grounds, he also uncovered a portable cooking stove, a sleeping bag, lights, camping chairs, trainers, food and much more.

People took to the comments section to weigh in on Ethan's finds, although it seems they weren't too impressed.

One viewer wrote: 'I go to a techno festival in Germany and the camping ground never looks like this afterwards'.

Another added: 'This is disgusting!'

The student took to TikTok to reveal that not only did he have a hair-raising time at the music weekender, but shortly after it was over, he stumbled on a heap of treasure

Among grass-filled trash, Ethan also finds this fully blown up air mattress. It may have been discarded by another festival goer

As he made his way around the grounds, he uncovered other items including this small red lantern

In the video, Ethan can be heard saying: 'It was so crazy to see how much stuff people left behind. I couldn't believe it!' (Pictured: An air pump left behind at the festival)

Meanwhile a third questioned: 'Are they allowed to leave it like that and do that?

Elsewhere one Leeds Festival worker has disclosed a shocking revelation of her own.

Bethany Madden revealed that donning a high vis and putting a shift in means you get free access to watch the best bands and even mingle with A-listers.

The student took to TikTok to say she'll always sign up to work at the festival rather than paying to go - because staff get so many perks.

Bethany worked at the long-running music festival last weekend after originally acquiring the job through a student group at university.

Now on her third year of working it, she says there are a lot more perks for staff than she originally anticipated - excluding hot showers which are a 'lucky' occurrence.

She explains: 'These are the reasons why we would only ever work at Leeds Festival and wouldn't come normally again.'

'Firstly, the hours. We worked 8am until 7pm on both Wednesday and Thursday, although we got let off early and actually finished at like, 5pm.'

'We've had Friday and Saturday both completely off and all we have left to do is our Sunday shift which is 9am until 6pm.

'So, yeah. We basically managed to watch all of the festival.'

She moves on to reason number two and discusses staff camping, which she says is 'so much nicer than normal camping'.

People took to the comments section to weigh in on the Ethan's find, although it seems they weren't too impressed. (Pictured: A discarded sleeping bag)

At first glance, the scenes appear to show nothing more than folded drink cans, tissues and half eaten snacks. However, Ethan manages to find a pair of fairly used sunglasses

Ethan leaves the Reading Festival weekender a happy man after discovering a trunkload of goodies (Pictured: Ethan's car filled with finds from Reading festival)

She continues: '[Staff camping] is actually quiet at night because people have to get up for work the next morning.

'The toilets are okay. The showers - we actually have showers and if you're lucky, you get a warm one.'

'We also get access to the VIP guest bar area, which has proper toilets, like ceramic, with running water.

'That's the main perk. Also, the artists go there, so you might occasionally see someone famous. The only person I've seen is Luke Ayling.'

She also reveals that staff meals are 'loads cheaper' than food purchased from the festival's vendors, and if you're lucky you may even get a free food voucher.

She concludes with her last reason being the cool hard cash, boasting it to be 11.50 an hour.
Queen Mathilde of Belgium looked elegant as she travelled to Vatican City alongside her husband King Philippe today.

The royal couple were welcomed upon their arrival for their private audience with Pope Francis.

The Queen, 50, wore a modest white dress for the occasion, which came to just below the knee.

Queen Mathilde paired her conservative frock with a white mantilla, which she wore draped over her head.

Black lace is customary when visiting the Pope, but only a handful of people are permitted to wear white around the religious figure when visiting the Vatican.

King Philippe And Queen Mathilde of Belgium were welcomed upon their arrival for their private audience with Pope Francis

Only seven women in the world are permitted to wear white in front of the Pope, these include Charlene, Princess of Monaco, Queen Letizia of Spain, Queen Mathilde of Belgium and Maria Teresa, The Grand Duchess of Luxembourg.

'The privilege of the white' also extends to Belgium's Queen Paola and Princess Marina of Naples.

The privilege only extends to these royals because they are the seven Catholic Queens, Princesses and Duchesses.

This meant that when Queen Camilla visited the Pope, she had to wear all-black, as she never converted to Roman Catholic, despite growing up in a Catholic household. Instead, she is an Anglican.

Queen Mathilde's frock was also long-sleeved, meaning it covered her shoulders and neck.

The Vatican has a dress code - those visiting cannot wear low-cut or sleeveless dresses, miniskirts, shorts and hats.

On their website it states: 'The Vatican is an independent state in which the Roman Catholic Church is based and imposes its dress rules throughout the city.

'The clothing required is modest and requires for respect of the sacredness of the institutions the coverage of certain areas of the body.'

Black lace is customary when visiting the Pope, but only a handful of people are permitted to wear white around the religious figure when visiting the Vatican

The royal couple appeared in great spirits as they chatted with Pope Francis during the visit

The Queen, 50, wore a modest white dress for the occasion, which came to just below the knee

King Philippe And Queen Mathilde of Belgium leave the Apostolic Palace at the end of an audience with Pope Francis

The Queen smiled as she exited the Apostolic Palace alongside her husband King Philippe

The royal couple beamed for a slew of snaps before meeting Pope Francis

King Philippe and Queen Mathilde posed for photos with the Pope and other offical's at the Apostolic Palace

Queen Mathilde paired her conservative frock with a white mantilla, which she wore draped over her head

The Belgian royal is only one of seven royal women in the world allowed to wear white in front of the Pope

The Vatican has a dress code - those visiting cannot wear low-cut or sleeveless dresses, miniskirts, shorts and hats

Queen Mathilde's frock was also long-sleeved, meaning it covered her shoulders and neck

They also say that it is 'absolutely forbidden' to wear a top that shows your midriff.

She paired the look with some beige kitten heels and a simple eggshell-coloured clutch bag.

Her husband, King Philippe, 63, looked dapper in a black suit and polished shoes, with a blue patterned tie.

They gathered outside St. Damaso courtyard, which is where the heads of state and government are welcomed.

It is seen as an area where those who are having a private audience by the Pope are greeted by officials.

Queen Mathilde of Belgium looked stylish as she stepped out on to the streets of Vatican City

She donned a belted white dress for the occasion, which was conservative

They gathered outside St. Damaso courtyard, which is where the heads of state and government are welcomed

Black lace is customary when visiting the Pope, but only a handful of people are permitted to wear white around the religious figure

Queen Mathilde of Belgium smiled after her private audience with the Pope

Her modest frock was in keeping with the particular rules you must follow when visiting The Vatican

Visitors are required to wear 'casual but modest dress' to meet the Pope - but normal protocol calls for ladies to wear a long black dress with a high collar and long sleeves While a mantilla is considered standard wear for women meeting the Pope, Catholic women often wear them for other religious occasions as well. The veil serves several purposes, including covering a woman's physical beauty 'so that the beauty of God may be glorified instead,' according to Catholic Company. It also serves to emulate Mary, 'the archetype of purity and humility,' and to show 'reverence and piety while in the presence of God.' Black lace is worn by married or widowed women, while unmarried women and young girls wear white lace. Mantillas used to be required for women attending Mass; however, since the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), they are just encouraged. While black clothing and a veil are considered appropriate for women meeting the Pope, the official dress code for a papal audience is less detailed. Explicitly required is 'casual but modest dress.' For women, this can include trousers, capri pants, skirts, and dresses, though bottoms must be knee length and shoulders must be covered. Advertisement

Queen Mathilde looked in high spirits as she shook hands with Monsignor Leonardo Sapienza, before entering the venue.

The Belgian royal wore a very similar outfit to one she sported back in 2015 where she visited Pope Francis.

Except last time she had a private audience, the Queen was on crutches as she suffered a fall and had injured her knee. But still, Queen Mathilde powered on with engagements.

The last time that Queen Mathilde was seen on an engagement was at the country's National Day which was on the end of July.

Her daughters Princesses Elisabeth, 21, and Eleonore, 15, donned their country's colours as they arrived at the 'Te Deum' mass at the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Brussels.

Independence Day celebrates the separation of Belgium from the Netherlands in 1831, as well as the formal establishment of the Kingdom.
Sophie, 58, looked stunning in snakeskin as she visited the centre in Salisbury

The Duchess of Edinburgh looked stunning in snakeskin print today as she went to visit an outdoor therapy centre in Salisbury.

Sophie, 58, cut a chic figure as she sported an elegant floaty snakeskin dress for the occasion, which she paired with a silver medallion-style necklace.

She paired the animal-print frock with a crisp, white blazer and a beige snakeskin clutch bag.

The royal looked effortlessly stylish in simple gold hoops and chose to wear brown espadrilles.

Gul Outdoor Therapy and Activity Centre is a registered charity which claims to provide 'therapeutic activities in an outdoor setting.'

Sophie, 58, cut a chic figure as she sported an elegant floaty snakeskin dress for the occasion, which she paired with a silver medallion-style necklace

Coming from humble beginnings, the centre was founded in 2003 by a small church community.

Gul offers help to anyone who is facing challenges in their life, and urges those who feel like they could benefit from being outdoors to contact them.

The royal opted for natural makeup, wearing just a hint of mascara, lipstick and eye shadow.

She wore her blow-dried blonde tresses down, and they sad just below her shoulder.

Just like her late mother-in-law, the Queen, Sophie took a shine to the horses at the activity centre.

Prince Edward's wife was very close to Queen Elizabeth II, and was known as one of her closest confidantes.

The royal family are known for the love of horses, in particular the late Queen, Princess Anne and Zara Tindall.

In recent years, Sophie, who was a rock for the Queen, took up horse riding as a hobby in order to bond with the Queen.

She also opted to wear her blow-dried blonde tresses down, and they sad just below her shoulder

Gul Outdoor Therapy and Activity Centre is a registered charity which claims to provide 'therapeutic activities in an outdoor setting'

Sophie spoke to staff at the farm shop in Salisbury today

Duchess of Edinburgh shopped around in the farm shop in Salisbury today

Speaking in 2021, one friend said: Sophie set herself a series of tasks. She learned how to ride properly and now rides with the Queen at least once a week.

She took up carriage-driving to be close to Philip,' they added.

She was pictured stroking and talking to a couple of different horses and ponies with a large smile on her face.

The mother-of-two was also snapped laughing and talking with children who were taking part in outdoor activities.

As per the official royal website, the Sophie likes to support young people and children in need of additional care.

While in Salisbury, the Duchess into popped into Stable and Wick Bakery and Farm Shop and shopped around whilst chatting to members of staff.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh visits Stable and Wick Bakery and Farm Shop

Duchess of Edinburgh looked stunning as she sat down in the farm shop

The mother-of-two was also snapped laughing and talking with children who were taking part in outdoor activities

She paired the animal-print frock with a crisp, white blazer and a beige snakeskin clutch bag

While in Salisbury, the Duchess into popped into Stable and Wick Bakery and Farm Shop and shopped around whilst chatting to members of staff

Just like her late mother-in-law, the Queen, Sophie took a shine to the horses at the activity centre

Gul offers help to anyone who is facing challenges in their life, and urges those who feel like they could benefit from being outdoors to contact them

As per the official royal website, the Sophie likes to support young people and children in need of additional care

The royal family are known for the love of horses, in particular the late Queen, Princess Anne and Zara Tindall

Some of the charity's core activities include horse riding, animal therapy, stable management and other associated tasks.

Those who attend Gul usually do stay for at least one academic term, and people can stay for as little as 15 minutes to multiple days at a time.

The Duchess looked in high spirits as she was guided around the large open space by members of the charity.

She seemed to be enjoying her flying visit to the therapy centre, as she was pictured taking in the greenery around her.

It also seems that Sophie is a lover of animals, as after the Coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla in May, she took part in a class at Guide Dogs for the Blind Association training centre in Reading.

She attended with her husband, Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, and she is Patron of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

Prince Edward's wife was very close to Queen Elizabeth II, and was known as one of her closest confidantes. Here she is pictured with a horse

Sophie looked stunning in snakeskin as she walked along, taking in the greenery

Some of the charity's core activities include horse riding, animal therapy, stable management and other associated tasks

The Duchess is pictured peering around a tree at the centre in Salisbury

The Duchess looked in high spirits as she was guided around the large open space by members of the charity

Sophie took a shine to the horses, who she petted and spoke to in Salisbury today

Sweet images showed her stroking and walking the dogs - Labradors and Golden Retrievers - and one even gave the Duchess a smooch on the cheek.

More recently Sophie appeared relaxed as she attended the Cornbury House International Horse Trials on the anniversary of the late Queen's passing last week.

Sophie and the Queen formed close bond after losing her own mother, Mary Rhys-Jones, to stomach cancer in 2005 aged 71, when her daughter Lady Louise Windsor was only two.

Sophie took to the Cornbury House Trials just one day after her niece by marriage, Zara Tindall, 42, competed in the cross-country part of the competition.
Bode Miller has opened up about the terrifying moment he realized his kids were suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning and rushed them to hospital.

The former Olympic skier reflected on the moment he and his wife, Morgan, 36, discovered three of their young children were unwell after inhaling the odorless, colorless gas - despite being outdoors.

'I would've never thought that carbon monoxide poisoning could be a real danger outside,' Bode, 45, admitted to DailyMail.com while promoting his appearance in upcoming FOX reality series Special Forces: World's Toughest Test.

'But it's a really heavy gas. It sits really low to the ground. My kids were sitting, there was a crane running and there was zero wind.'

The former Olympic athlete told DailyMail.com the situation was 'scary as s**t' until he and his wife, Morgan, figured out what was wrong

In July, Bode Miller's wife Morgan (pictured with 19-month-old Scarlet) revealed three of their children were hospitalized with carbon monoxide poisoning

Their three-year-old twins, Asher and Aksel, were also taken to the emergency room. Pictured right is Bode with one of the twins

The dad added the 'scary thing' was that the family has carbon monoxide and smoke detectors throughout their entire house and yet still had no warning about what was happening to the children.

In fact, despite taking what they thought was every available precaution, their three-year-old twins Asher and Aksel, and their 19-month-old daughter Scarlet still got sick.

In July, Bode's wife Morgan - a former professional beach volleyball player - took to Instagram to share a video of three of their children in the ER wearing oxygen masks, while opening up about how the 'terrifying' medical scare unfolded.

'Two weeks ago, we had a crane at our house to remove our broken hot tub,' Morgan, 36, began her post, with the clip of Asher, Aksel, and Scarlet in hospital beds as they were tended by medical staff.

'They were on high flow oxygen for over four hours. It was a terrifying experience but thanking my lucky stars they are okay.'

According to Morgan, the situation was caused by a crane that was parked in their driveway to repair a broken hot tub.

She explained the kids had been standing on the front step of their home to watch the crane - despite Bode stating in a since-deleted Instagram post that they had kept the children inside 'for obvious safety reasons' - when the accident happened.

Bode said the incident was amplified by the fact he and Morgan lost their daughter, Emmy, in 2018 after she drowned in their neighbors' pool at only 19 months old, even though he assured Asher, Aksel, and Scarlet were 'fine now.'

'I think after losing a child, you are sort of reattuned to where the risks are,' he told DailyMail.com.

Bode will appear on season 2 of FOX's television show: Special Forces: Worlds Toughest Test

In June, the family marked five years since the death of their 19-month-old daughter Emmy, who died one day after an accidental drowning incident in their neighbors' pool

Bode said the kids were 'fine now' after the scary ordeal, admitting there's a whole 'host of things that are really dangerous' to children that you just don't think of as a parent

An aerial view of their home in Southern California with the hot tub in the backyard next to the pool

'And there are lots of things that are scary as a parent that aren't actually really that dangerous and that you talk about with your pediatrician or whatever.'

What is carbon monoxide poisoning? Carbon monoxide poisoning is caused by a carbon monoxide build-up in the blood, according to Mayo Clinic. It occurs when too much of the gas is in the air, and blood in the body starts to replace the oxygen in the red blood cells with carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless and colorless gas. It can be made through burning fuels, including gas, wood, propane or charcoal. Carbon monoxide poisoning can also be caused by being in a tightly enclosed space with an appliance or engine emitting the gas. Anyone exposed to carbon monoxide should immediately seek fresh air and medical assistance as the condition can be fatal if not treated. Symptoms are often described as flu-like and include: Headache

Weakness

Dizziness

Nausea or vomiting

Shortness of breath

Confusion

Blurred vision

Drowsiness

Loss of muscle control

Loss of consciousness Advertisement

He added: 'But then there's a whole host of things that are really dangerous, that aren't really scary, and you just don't think of, or you think they're not ever going to happen to you. And so, after experiencing that, I think we're pretty dialed in.'

The former athlete said the freak accident wouldn't have been an issue if there had been 'even been a whisper of a breeze.'

He called the poisoning 'another episode of showing you what you don't know as a parent.

'Which is a pretty long list for me,' the 45-year-old added.

'I mean, maybe some parents have a better go at it, but there's just so many scary things you don't know,' he continued.

'And when you are hit with one of those in a real way where you see a kid like our kids, they were passing out, they were turning really, really white.'

Bode described the situation as 'scary as s**t' until they figured out what was happening, especially as he and Morgan were standing next to them.

'But I'm up at six feet and they're sitting on the ground and it's just they could die right next to you, and you would never know why or how,' the dad pointed out.

'I think [that] was important that we share that because I think I view all parents as in this together. And if you share that s**t, maybe it helps some other person.'

According to Bode, the shape of their driveway and the fact that the crane was there for five hours running with no wind was how the kids became ill despite being outside.

'It was a series of things that's very unlikely to happen, but there's enough people in the world that it's going to happen again,' he said. 'So hopefully try to share it and inform people so that they don't lose their kids.'

The 'terrifying' emergency came just over six months after Morgan and Bode - who also share sons Nash, eight, and Easton, four - experienced another health scare, revealing back in December that Asher had been rushed to the ER after suffering from a seizure.

The toddler was treated in the same hospital the couple's young daughter Emmy who passed away in after drowning in 2018.

Bode previously posted a photo of him and his loved ones enjoying a hot tub back in 2019

Bode admitted he didn't think they could get carbon monoxide poisoning because they were outside

Morgan and Bode share five children: Three-year-old twin sons Asher and Aksel; Easton, four; Nash, eight; and daughter Scarlet Olivia, 19 months

Emmy: Last month marked the fifth anniversary that the Miller family lost their daughter, who was just 19 months old when she tragically drowned in their neighbors' pool

Morgan shared a heartfelt Instagram post at the time along with a picture of Bode lying in the hospital bed with Asher, describing the scary incident and being thankful that although it was the 'same ambulance to the same hospital' they took Emmy to, 'this time we got to leave with our child.'

In 2019, Bode, who also has a daughter named Neesyn Dacey (Dace) and a son Samuel (Nate) with former girlfriends, revealed he and his family would be splitting their time between California and Montana, a year after Emmy's death.

'Losing a child makes you reflect. Who do I want my kids to be? How do I want them to interact with the world, and how do I make sure they grow up to be solid humans?' he wrote on Instagram at the time.

'To gain grit, resiliency, humility, integrity, character, kindness, honesty. Nature can teach you so many of these things which is why [Morgan] and I decided to expand on the lives we live in Southern California and provide the balance of Big Sky, MT.

'We are thrilled to be making the move to Big Sky part time and making more of life [Spanish Peaks Mountain Club].'

The couple spoke further about their sea change to the Bozeman Daily Chronicle, with Morgan saying she hoped the move to Montana would encourage them to explore and get them away from technology.

'I would've loved to have grown up there as a little kid,' Bode added.

'The house we got is fantastic. Ski in and ski out. Got a lot of space, beautiful views, a yard. You're on nature, so kids can just go outside and go rip around. And I think it checked all the boxes for us.'

Special Forces: World's Toughest Test premieres on FOX on September 25
European royals have turned out in force to celebrate the golden jubilee of King Carl Gustaf's 50th in Stockholm.

Carl Gustaf, 77, is the first king in the Swedish monarchys more than 1,000-year history to reach 50 years on the throne.

And following the death of Queen Elizabeth II last year, hes the second-longest reigning European monarch alive today, after Queen Margrethe, who celebrated her 50th anniversary on Denmarks throne last year.

The jubilee is four days of celebrations that culminate with a military parade through the capital.

Queen Margrethe of Denmark arrived for the festivities alongside her son Crown Prince Frederik, 55, and his wife Princess Mary, 51, on Thursday.

Crown Prince Frederik looked smart in a sage green suit jacket and grey trousers as he arrived for the celebrations

Crown princess Mary looked typically stylish in a beige suit which she paired with a white T-shirt

King Carl XVI Gustaf posed in the same ceremonial chains and medals that he wore for his 1973 regal assurance, when he was only 27 years old

Meanwhile Queen Anne-Marie of Greece was also among the dignitaries on the guest list for the jubilee events.

King Carl's cousin Queen Margrethe looked chic in a navy coat and a red and white gown underneath.

Prince Frederik looked smart in a sage green suit jacket and grey trousers, while his wife looked typically stylish in a beige suit.

Yesterday the Monarch of Sweden appeared in great spirits during the reception at the Royal Palace in Stockholm.

The royal, who is a distant cousin of King Charles, received a present and balloons from Jennifer McShane and Ava Thunberg from the foundation My Special Day.

Carl donned a navy suit which he paired with a white shirt and a matching navy tie.

King Carl ascended to the throne on the death of his grandfather, Gustaf VI Adolf, on 15 September 1973.

Queen Margrethe of Denmark arrived in Sweden for the celebration of King Carl Gustaf 's 50th jubilee in Stockholm

Queen Anne-Marie of Greece was also among the dignitaries on the guest list for the jubilee events

He is the youngest child and only son of Prince Gustaf Adolf, Duke of Vasterbotten, and Princess Sibylla of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.

He married Silvia Sommerlath in 1976, three years after his accession.

The royal couple share three children - Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden, 45, Prince Carl Philip of Sweden, Duke of Varmland, 43, and Princess Madeleine of Sweden, Duchess of Halsingland and Gastrikland, 40.

Ahead of his Golden Jubilee celebrations, the Royal Court of Sweden shared a new image of the monarch, which was taken in the Royal Palace of Stockholms Hall of State.

Queen Margrethe was spotted greeting the navy as she boarded a ship in Stockholm

King Carl's cousin Queen Margrethe looked chic in a navy coat and a red and white gown underneath

Dressed in his admiral uniform, the father-of-three is pictured next to the silver throne, which dates back to Queen Kristinas 1650 coronation and is used in state openings of parliament.

Over his uniform, the King wears a number of medals - including the Order of the Seraphim.

This medal - also known as the 'Blue Ribbon' - is seen as Sweden's equivalent to the UK's Order of the Garter and is the highest honour of chivalry which can be awarded.

On top of this, the monarch also wears the Royal Order of Vasa, the Order of the Sword and the 1840 Order of Dannebrog chain, which can only be given to the monarch's closest family.

The King also appears to be wearing the exact same ceremonial chains he donned for his 1973 regal assurance, when he became the country's youngest ever monarch at 27 years old.

The new portrait of the King, taken by Thron Ullberg, will appear on stamps being issued in Sweden in 2023.
Prince Edward appeared in high spirits as he today attended the Commonwealth Youth Awards at St James's Palace in London.

The Duke of Edinburgh, 59, cut a dapper figure in a charcoal grey suit, adorned with a subtle checkered design, as he mingled with guests at the prestigious event which spotlights young leaders tackling challenges in their communities.

He added a pop of colour to the ensemble with a patterned scarlet tie, worn with a simple and sophisticated blue shirt.

The royal appeared deep in conversation with attendees and was at one point pictured giving a speech.

He also presented Maya Kirti Nanan her Commonwealth Young Person of the Year Award and certificate, alongside Commonwealth Secretary General, Baroness Scotland of Asthal.

Prince Edward appeared in high spirits as he today attended the Commonwealth Youth Awards at St James's Palace in London

Twenty-year-old Maya, from Trinidad and Tobago, founded the Siblings and Friends Network, which supports people on the autism spectrum in the country.

Edward grinned while handing the visibly delighted activist her award.

This year marked the 50th anniversary of the Commonwealth Youth Programme (CYP) and saw 20 regional finalists come forward with incredible initiatives, which focused on everything from environmental transformation to health and wellbeing.

Earlier this summer saw an adorable moment when a youngster asked the Duke of Edinburgh to take a photograph with his royal-loving friend's Lego brick during a visit to Northern Ireland.

King Charles III's youngest brother met with families enjoying activities on Portstewart Inclusive Beach to see the work of the Mae Murray Foundation.

The charity supports people of all ages and abilities to take part in swimming, surfing or simply playing on the beach.

During his visit, Prince Edward met one youngster who asked for a photograph because his pal wanted the royal to hold his Lego brick.

The royal appeared deep in conversation with attendees and was at one point pictured giving a speech

He also presented Maya Kirti Nanan her Commonwealth Young Person of the Year Award and certificate, alongside Commonwealth Secretary General, Baroness Scotland of Asthal

Twenty-year-old Maya, from Trinidad and Tobago, founded the Siblings and Friends Network, which supports people on the autism spectrum in the country. Edward grinned while handing the visibly delighted activist her award

The Duke of Edinburgh , 59, cut a dapper figure in a charcoal grey suit, adorned with a subtle checkered design, as he mingled with guests at the prestigious event which spotlights young leaders tackling challenges in their communities

He added a pop of colour to the ensemble with a patterned scarlet tie, worn with a simple and sophisticated blue shirt

'Now, my friend, he loves the Royal Family,' explained the child, who was sitting in a wheelchair while on the beach.

'And this is his Lego brick, and I've been tasked with looking after this Lego brick. Could I get a picture of you and this Lego brick?'

'Right, OK,' a smiling Edward responded. 'He won't believe it's the same one through, will he? Are you supposed to be in this photograph as well?,' questioned the royal.

'You stay there. I'll come round,' the Duke added, before posing with the youngster. 'Brilliant. There we go. Just to prove that we had a brick in this as well,' explained Edward, before holding the toy up towards the camera. 'Excellent. Fantastic.' he added.

'Thanks very much,' the excited fan said, before Edward handed him back the Lego brick, saying: 'You better hold on to that... Good to meet you.'

'My friend's going to be chuffed,' added the youngster, to a round of laughter from the surrounding group.
Malia Obama looked trendy as she stepped out in a white crop top and jeans with a friend in New York City this week, while enjoying a getaway from her West Coast home in Los Angeles.

Photographers caught the eldest daughter of former President Barack Obama taking a stroll through Manhattan on Wednesday.

The Harvard graduate, 25, seemed in great spirits as she accompanied a pal on a dog walk.

Malia kept it casual but chic for the outing, pairing her outfit with some chunky boots.

Malia Obama looked trendy as she stepped out in a white crop top and jeans with a friend in New York City

Photographers caught the eldest daughter of former President Barack Obama taking a stroll through Manhattan on Wednesday

The Harvard graduate, 25, seemed in great spirits as she accompanied a pal on a dog walk

Malia kept it casual but chic for the outing, pairing her outfit with some chunky boots

She wore a pair of sunglasses on top of her head and carried her belongings in a bright, patchwork tote bag.

She went all-natural for the hangout, sporting very little makeup, and kept her long, brunette locks in loose braids.

She went all-natural for the hangout, sporting very little makeup, and kept her long, brunette locks in loose braids

The former First Daughter was all smiles, despite the outing coming just days after a convicted felon made wild gay sex claims about her father, Barack.

Appearing completely unbothered by the controversy swirling around her dad, the budding screenwriter and her unidentified female friend - who donned a navy blue hoodie and dark sweat pants - giggled with one another as the pooch trotted ahead of them with a blue toy in its mouth.

Last week, con man Larry Sinclair alleged that Barack performed oral sex on him twice in Chicago in 1999, and that he witnessed him buying and smoking cocaine during an appearance on former Fox host Tucker Carlson's show.

Larry - who has a lengthy criminal history, including convictions on forgery, fraud and larceny charges, and has served prison time in Arizona, Florida, and Colorado - first made the claims in 2008, while Barack was gearing up to run for president.

At the time, his accusations were roundly condemned as an attempted political hatchet-job. He has never offered any proof of his claims against the former president.

Larry's claims were given a new lease of life last month after The New York Post released a letter written by Barack in 1982, when he was 21 years old, to his girlfriend Alex McNear.

The former First Daughter was all smiles, despite the outing coming just days after a convicted felon made wild gay sex claims about her father, Barack

Appearing completely unbothered by the controversy swirling around her dad, the budding screenwriter and her friend giggled with one another as the pooch trotted ahead of them

The dog held a small blue toy in its mouth, which seemed to entertain Malia

Malia moved to Los Angeles after she finished her studies at Harvard University in 2021

She is now currently living in Los Angeles with her 22-year-old sister, Sasha - who relocated to the West Coast in 2022 after she transferred to USC from the University of Michigan

In it, he wrote that he 'loves making love to men daily, but in the imagination,' according to the publication.

Malia moved to Los Angeles after she finished her studies at Harvard University in 2021.

She is now currently living in LA with her 22-year-old sister, Sasha - who relocated to the West Coast in 2022 after she transferred to USC from the University of Michigan.

Sasha graduated from the college in May with a major in sociology, while her parents cheered her on from the crowd.

The sisters seem to be enjoying the razzle and dazzle of LA, and they were seen partying into the wee hours of the morning alongside a slew of celebrities at a party hosted by Drake last month.

The sisters seem to be enjoying the razzle and dazzle of LA, and they were seen partying into the wee hours of the morning with a slew of celebrities at a party hosted by Drake last month

Back in November, their 59-year-old mom, Michelle, gushed over how her two daughters became each other's 'best friends'

She admitted that they grew close after going through a period of not being able to 'stand each other'

'The thing that I love the most is that those two girls are each other's best friends,' she told Today hosts Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager of Malia (seen this week) and Sasha

She continued: 'There was a period of time when they couldn't stand each other, and I said, "You wait, one day you're going to know that you two share something very unique"'

'To see them in that place where they're one another's support systems and they've got each other's backs, it's the thing that a mother would want,' Michelle gushed of her daughters

Last week, con man Larry Sinclair (seen) alleged that Barack performed oral sex on him twice in Chicago in 1999, and that he witnessed him buying and smoking cocaine

Larry - who has a lengthy criminal history - first made the claims in 2008, while Barack was gearing up to run for president, but reiterated them last week on Tucker Carlson's show

The star-studded bash took place at the coveted members-only club, The Bird Streets Club, and was attended by tons of famous faces like Saweetie and Anderson .Paak.

Back in November, their 59-year-old mom, Michelle, gushed over how her two daughters became each other's 'best friends' after going through a period of not being able to 'stand each other.'

'The thing that I love the most is that those two girls are each other's best friends,' she told Today hosts Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager.

'There was a period of time when they couldn't stand each other, and I said, "You wait, you are going to wake up one day and you're going to look over at that other person, and you're going to know that you two share something very unique," especially given what they've been through.

'To see them in that place where they're one anothers support systems and they've got each other's backs, it's the thing that a mother would want.'
The Swedish royal family put on a glittering display as they arrived for King Carl Gustaf's Golden Jubilee celebration in Stockholm today.

Crown Princess Victoria, 46, wowed in a voluminous orange gown while her sister Princess Madeleine, 41, donned a stunning strapless outfit in lilac.

Sister-in-law Princess Sofia, 39, chose an eye-catching fuscia pink dress for the evening.

The royals were also joined by King Carl Gustaf, Prince Daniel and Prince Carl Philip in Stockholm.

Carl Gustaf, 77, is the first king in the Swedish monarchys more than 1,000-year history to reach 50 years on the throne.

The man of the hour! Royals from around the world gathered today to mark King Carl Gustaf's 50th Jubilee

The Swedish royal family put on a glittering display as they arrived for King Carl Gustaf's Golden Jubilee celebration in Stockholm today

Sister-in-law Princess Sofia, 39, chose an eye-catching fuscia pink dress for the evening (pictured with Carl Philip)

Crown Princess Victoria, 46, wowed in a voluminous orange gown while her sister Princess Madeleine, 41, donned a stunning strapless outfit in lilac (pictured)

Queen Silvia opted for a glittering nude dress for the occasion, and stood arm-in-arm with her husband at the event

And following the death of Queen Elizabeth II last year, hes the second-longest reigning European monarch alive today, after Queen Margrethe, who celebrated her 50th anniversary on Denmarks throne last year.

The jubilee is four days of celebrations that culminate with a military parade through the capital.

Earlier today, european royals turned out in force to celebrate the golden jubilee of King Carl Gustaf's 50th in Stockholm.

Queen Margrethe of Denmark arrived for the festivities alongside her son Crown Prince Frederik, 55, and his wife Princess Mary, 51, on Thursday.

Meanwhile Queen Anne-Marie of Greece was also among the dignitaries on the guest list for the jubilee events.

King Carl's cousin Queen Margrethe looked chic in a navy coat and a red and white gown underneath.

Prince Frederik looked smart in a sage green suit jacket and grey trousers, while his wife looked typically stylish in a beige suit.

Yesterday the Monarch of Sweden appeared in great spirits during the reception at the Royal Palace in Stockholm.

Sweden's Princess Estelle and Prince Oscar arrived hand-in-hand at Drottningholm Palace Theatre

Princess Estelle looked elegant in a bold green tulle dress as she arrived alongside her younger brother

Meanwhile Crown Princess Victoria and her husband Prince Daniel were beaming as they arrived together for the event

While the Crown Princess looked radiant in an orange gown, Prince Daniel opted for a velvety suit

The couple were in high spirits as they arrived at the event in Stockholm tonight arm-in-arm

Princess Mary and Prince Frederik of Denmark were also in attendance at the event in Stockholm

The royal couple smiled towards crowds who had gathered for the Jubilee concert this evening at theatre

Princess Madeleine opted for strapless lilac number for the outing in Stockholm this evening, arriving alongside her husband

Meanwhile Princess Sofia donned an eyecatching pink dress for the occasion

Others in attendance included Sweden's Princess Christina, Mrs Magnuson and husband Tord Magnuson (left) and Queen Margrethe II of Denmark and Queen Anne-Marie of Greece (right)

The royal, who is a distant cousin of King Charles, received a present and balloons from Jennifer McShane and Ava Thunberg from the foundation My Special Day.

Carl donned a navy suit which he paired with a white shirt and a matching navy tie.

King Carl ascended to the throne on the death of his grandfather, Gustaf VI Adolf, on 15 September 1973.

He is the youngest child and only son of Prince Gustaf Adolf, Duke of Vasterbotten, and Princess Sibylla of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.

He married Silvia Sommerlath in 1976, three years after his accession.

The royal couple share three children - Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden, 45, Prince Carl Philip of Sweden, Duke of Varmland, 43, and Princess Madeleine of Sweden, Duchess of Halsingland and Gastrikland, 40.

Ahead of his Golden Jubilee celebrations, the Royal Court of Sweden shared a new image of the monarch, which was taken in the Royal Palace of Stockholms Hall of State.

Crown Prince Frederik looked smart in a sage green suit jacket and grey trousers as he arrived for the celebrations

Queen Margrethe of Denmark arrived in Sweden for the celebration of King Carl Gustaf 's 50th jubilee in Stockholm

Queen Anne-Marie of Greece was also among the dignitaries on the guest list for the jubilee events

Crown princess Mary looked typically stylish in a beige suit which she paired with a white T-shirt

Queen Margrethe was spotted greeting the navy as she boarded a ship in Stockholm

King Carl's cousin Queen Margrethe looked chic in a navy coat and a red and white gown underneath

Dressed in his admiral uniform, the father-of-three is pictured next to the silver throne, which dates back to Queen Kristinas 1650 coronation and is used in state openings of parliament.

Over his uniform, the King wears a number of medals - including the Order of the Seraphim.

This medal - also known as the 'Blue Ribbon' - is seen as Sweden's equivalent to the UK's Order of the Garter and is the highest honour of chivalry which can be awarded.

On top of this, the monarch also wears the Royal Order of Vasa, the Order of the Sword and the 1840 Order of Dannebrog chain, which can only be given to the monarch's closest family.

The King also appears to be wearing the exact same ceremonial chains he donned for his 1973 regal assurance, when he became the country's youngest ever monarch at 27 years old.

The new portrait of the King, taken by Thron Ullberg, will appear on stamps being issued in Sweden in 2023.
The internet has been sent into a frenzy over a stunning apartment listing that cheekily showcases the seller's two Emmys, two SAG Awards, and Golden Globe awards.

The three-bed, one-bath loft apartment in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, recently hit the market for a cool $1.8 million.

It boasts a spacious open-plan living area, stylish in-built features and amazing views over the city - but it was the nod to the current owner's identity that really got prospective buyers talking.

So, can you guess which A-list celebrity has put their property up for sale?

The three-bed, one-bath loft apartment in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, which boasts a celebrity owner recently hit the market for a cool $1.8 million

The corner loft apartment, which is a spacious 1,486 square feet, features high ceilings, exposed brick and white-washed oak flooring

Despite the impressive list of features, it was the current owner's staggering display of awards that really caught viewers eyes

The corner apartment, which is 1,486 square feet, features high ceilings, exposed brick and white-washed oak flooring.

The listing, by Compass, states that the main living space is fitted with a bioethanol fireplace and is flooded with light, offering sky views overlooking Continental Army Plaza.

The open-plan kitchen has a large Caesarstone-topped center island, stainless countertop with a deep integrated sink, dishwasher and Kitchenaid refrigerator.

The main oven is a BlueStar range which, although the exact model is not stated, has a starting price of $3,995.

Moving through to the main bedroom, which is a king size, there is a full wall of custom built-in closets and storage with an adjacent bathroom boasting a tub and double sink.

The unique 12-unit walk-up building, built in 1920s and converted in 2009, only has two units per floor.

Despite the impressive list of features, it was the current owner's staggering display of awards that really caught viewers eyes.

Perched on a ledge around the fireplace, were two Emmys, two SAGS, and a Golden Globe trophy.

The open-plan kitchen has a large Caesarstone-topped center island, stainless countertop with a deep integrated sink, dishwasher and Kitchenaid refrigerator

The unique 12-unit walk-up building, built in 1920s and converted in 2009, only has two units per floor

And, after the listing was shared on social media, users were sent into a frenzy as dozens joined in on the speculation about who the current owner could be

And, after the listing was shared on social media, users were sent into a frenzy as dozens joined in on the speculation about who the current owner could be.

One wrote: 'This is the most casual flex you could do lmao also I want this condo so bad.'

Another added: 'The Golden Globe in the corner... incredible.'

And a third simply said: 'Do we have answers?'

Among the A-list names suggested were Tina Fey, Julianna Margulies and Claire Foy.

But the clues began to add up after eagle-eyed viewers also realized that there were three baby cribs in one of the bedrooms.

For anyone yet to put it together, the palatial pad belongs to 44-year-old actor Jeremy Strong who is perhaps hoping to upgrade to a home more worthy of Kendall Roy - the wealthy businessman he played in HBO's recent hit Succession.

For anyone yet to put it together, the palatial pad belongs to 44-year-old actor Jeremy Strong and wife Emma Wall

The dramedy featured the actor as Kendall Roy (pictured in his apartment), the son of media mogul Logan Roy, who joins his siblings in battling to win the crown of CEO of their father's media conglomerate

Jeremy Strong's prestigious industry awards 2020: Emmy Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (Succession) 2021: Golden Globe Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series (Succession) 2021: SAG Award Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture (The Trial of the Chicago 7) 2022: SAG Award Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series (Succession) 2023: Emmy Outstanding Drama Series (Succession) Advertisement

The on-screen star won an Emmy as Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2020 for his role in Succession - but also claimed a second trophy after the show won Outstanding Drama Series earlier this year.

He took home the Golden Globe for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series for the HBO hit in 2021.

Strong's SAG Awards were given for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture over The Trial of the Chicago 7 in 2021 and he clinched his second - for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series - for Succession in 2022.

Strong and wife Emma Wall, who is a psychiatrist and documentary filmmaker, snapped up the property for $1.6 million in 2019, according to property records.

The pair, who tired the knot at a castle in Denmark in 2016, have three young daughters together - Ingrid, Clara and a third daughter whose name has not been shared.

Strong hit headlines throughout Succession's five-year run due to his unique form of method acting and his views on the show.

The dramedy featured the actor as Kendall Roy, the son of media mogul Logan Roy, who joins his siblings in battling to win the crown of CEO of their father's media conglomerate.

In 2021, a profile in The New Yorker revealed that the actor does not see the show, which is written by the brains of Peep Show Jesse Armstrong, as a comedy and that he also refused to break character on-set.

Following widespread uproar and mockery over the comments, his co-stars had plenty to say about his views and even how his acting impacted their performance, which producer Adam McKay said was 'the reason he was cast.'

On his role as Kendall, Strong said: 'To me, the stakes are life and death. I take him as seriously as I take my own life.'
Princess Eugenie glowed in jewel tones as she made her first public appearance after giving birth to her son Ernest at the end of May.

The mother-of-two, 33, opted for a satin teal gown with statement shoulders as she arrived at the Vogue World event at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane in central London.

The royal was accompanied by her sister Princess Beatrice, who donned a black floral flowing dress, and her sharply-dressed husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, who looked dapper in a white tuxedo jacket and black trousers.

Eugenie made it a mum's night out this evening as she appeared to have left her husband, wine merchant Jack Brooksbank, at home with baby Ernest and their oldest son August.

Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson's daughter has been taking some much needed time out of public life since giving birth to Ernest on May 30.

Princess Eugenie (pictured) made her first public appearance today since giving birth to her second child

Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi are pictured at the Vogue event

Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie are pictured together at the event on Thursday

As she introduced her second child to the world via Instagram, Eugenie revealed he had been born at the private Portland Hospital in London, weighing 7lbs 1oz, his name pays tribute to his late grandfather, Jack Brooksbank's father George, who died aged 72 in 2021, and Fergie's father Major Ronald Ferguson.

Eugenie also said his name was a tribute to his great great great grandfather George V, whose middle name was also Ernest.

Ernest will not receive a title, however, and  according to rules laid down by George V in 1917 - is not entitled to be called His Royal Highness.

Eugenie's sister and brother-in-law, Princess Beatrice, 35, and Edo Mapelli Mozzi, 39, weren't far behind on the red carpet tonight.

The star-studded performance will include several famous faces, including Kate Moss, Ian McKellen, Sophie Okonedo and Stomzy.

For the occasion, Eugenie opted for a turquoise satin dress, fit with pleated detailing and short sleeves.

The royal accessorised the outfit with sparkly diamond earrings and a matching pair of crystal-encrusted heeled pumps.

The mother-of-two opted for an elegant makeup look with a touch of nude lipstick and a classic bronzed eyeshadow look.

Eugenie's sister and brother-in-law, Princess Beatrice (left), 35, and Edo Mapelli Mozzi (right), 39, weren't far behind on the red carpet

Princess Beatrice looked summery in a floral ensemble while joining Eugenie on the red carpet.

The mother-of-one opted for a floral patterned maxi dress fit with gloves for the evening in London, paired with simple black-heeled pumps.

She accessorised the colourful summery outfit with a pair of glamorous drop earrings.

Edoardo looked dapper in a white tuxedo, which he matched with a classic pair of suede loafers.

Vogue World is bringing the esteemed magazine to life in a first-of-its-kind show.

Created by BAFTA-winning director Stephen Dalsry, show director Emily Burns, and creative producer Fran Miller, the evening will cover a wide spectrum of performing arts.

It comes shortly after Eugenie enjoyed a beach trip abroad to Kenya with her friends- apparently leaving her husband Jack and their two sons at home.

The Duke of York's daughter, 33, was pictured in the African country with German model and influencer, Caroline Daur, who shared a number of snaps of the group of friends on Instagram.

The British royal posed for snappers before entering Vogue's evening of fashion fantasia at the West End

For the occasion, Eugenie opted for a turquoise satin dress, fit with pleated detailing and short sleeves

They travelled to Lamu, a small town on Lamu Island, which has been a Unesco World Heritage Site since 2001.

While the Princess was pictured in a number of photographs lapping up the sunshine and enjoying the scenery, it appears her husband Jack and their two sons, August and Ernie did not join the group.

Eugenie and Jack, who split their time between Windsor and Portugal with her family, welcomed their second child on May 30th. They also share August Philip Hawke Brooksbank, 18 months.

A monochrome selfie posted on Caroline's Instagram, a day before anniversary of the Queen's death, showed the pair seemingly dressed up to go out.

In one of the photographs, Princess Eugenie donned a simple circular necklace and modest top and wore her curled tresses down.

The star-studded event will include several famous faces, including Kate Moss, Ian McKellen , Sophie Okonedo and Stomzy

Edoardo looked dapper in a white tuxedo, which he matched with a classic pair of suede loafers

Princess Beatrice looked summery in a floral ensemble fit with gloves while joining Eugenie on the red carpet

Princess Beatrice accessorised the colourful summery outfit with a pair of glamorous drop earrings

Eugenie seem to make it a mum's night out this evening as she appeared to have left her husband, wine merchant Jack Brooksbank, at home with baby Ernest and their oldest son August

Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson 's daughter has been taking some much needed time out of public life since giving birth to Ernest on May 30

Eugenie introduced her second child to the world via Instagram, she revealed he had been born at the private Portland Hospital in London, weighing 7lbs 1oz

Eugenie's second son, Ernest's name pays tribute to his late grandfather, Jack Brooksbank 's father George, who died aged 72 in 2021, and Fergie's father Major Ronald Ferguson

Ernest will not receive a title, however, and  according to rules laid down by George V in 1917 - is not entitled to be called His Royal Highness

Princess Beatrice, who donned a black floral flowing dress, and her sharply-dressed husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi , looked dapper in a white tuxedo jacket and black trousers

Meanwhile Caroline opted for slicked-back hair, dramatic oversized earrings and a feathered, spotty top.

Another image on the Instagram carousel showed the royal on a boat with a group of friends, enjoying a meal and wine on the open water.

Princess Eugenie sported a pair of round oversized black sunglasses and donned a black top.

She parted her chocolate locks so half of her hair was in a bun and the other strands were down.

The mother-of-two looked in high spirits as she smiled for the photograph with her pals.

Princess Eugenie's close friend Julia de Boinville was also amongst the group holidaying last week.

The island, located off the northern coast, is known for its snorkelling, scuba diving, coral reefs and beaches.
London Fashion Week has been in the doldrums for a while. The big name designers went to Paris or New York and the big name models followed. It had lost its buzz and what is a fashion week without buzz?

But this year there is something in the air again  that electricity is back. And it just might be due to last night's Vogue World event which brought a stellar guest list to the Theatre Royal.

But rather than trying to top the Big Apple's Met Gala, London settled on a rather more pared back British evening. Of course 'pared back' still allows for some fairly outlandish pieces.

Take actress Sienna Miller. She was recently announced as the new face of high street favourite M&S, but proved she can still go high fashion in a jaw-dropping two-piece with 1,950 Surrealist Eye Chandeliers earrings, both by Schiaparelli. And only Sienna could make an 80-style puffball skirt look elegant.

The long sleeves and addition of tights balanced out the cheeky bare midriff to make this look like a scene-stealing celebration of pregnancy.

Sienna Miller proved she can still go high fashion in a jaw-dropping two-piece with 1,950 Surrealist Eye Chandeliers earrings, both by Schiaparelli

Another work of art came in the form of TV presenter AJ Odudu's pleated purple creation from young London designer Robert Wun. He had his debut couture show in Paris in January.

Princess Beatrice also supported homegrown talent in Richard Quinn  recipient of the inaugural Queen Elizabeth II Award for Design.

Her simple black dress with bold floral print was balanced with a modern cape and glove-sleeve detail.

A masterclass in fusing classic and contemporary and the best look we've seen her in.

Timeless trouser suits were a popular choice for those looking to play it safe, though not too safe.

Twiggy arrived in a striking blood-red, velvet Gucci suit with a white shirt and dickie bow barely looking half her 73 years.

But Kate Winslet took a very different approach to suiting in an oversized white tuxedo believed to be from Paul Smith  conservative but with a nude bodice underneath revealing precisely the right amount of flesh.

Princess Beatrice (pictured with Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi) also supported homegrown talent in Richard Quinn  recipient of the inaugural Queen Elizabeth II Award for Design

Twiggy arrived in a striking blood-red, velvet Gucci suit with a white shirt and dickie bow barely looking half her 73 years

Georgia May Jagger made no secret of raiding her mother's wardrobe. The model posted a picture of Jerry Hall wearing her exact dress, believed to be by Bruce Oldfield, on social media earlier in the day

Kate Winslet took a very different approach to suiting in an oversized white tuxedo believed to be from Paul Smith  conservative but with a nude bodice underneath revealing precisely the right amount of flesh

Meanwhile, Jenna Coleman stepped out in a striking design from Rodarte's autumn 2023 collection

Another work of art came in the form of TV presenter AJ Odudu's pleated purple creation from young London designer Robert Wun. He had his debut couture show in Paris in January

Actor Damian Lewis in canary yellow trousers set off by a black satin jacket and his girlfriend Alison Mosshart in salmon pink

Meanwhile designer Stella McCartney arrived with socialite Poppy Delevingne and the actress Carey Mulligan

There can be little doubt about the trendiest couple of the evening. Actor Damian Lewis in canary yellow trousers set off by a black satin jacket and his girlfriend Alison Mosshart in salmon pink.

Meanwhile designer Stella McCartney arrived with socialite Poppy Delevingne and the actress Carey Mulligan, while Jenna Coleman stepped out in a striking design from Rodarte's autumn 2023 collection.

And Georgia May Jagger made no secret of raiding her mother's wardrobe. The model posted a picture of Jerry Hall wearing her exact dress, believed to be by Bruce Oldfield, on social media earlier in the day.

Of course the star of the evening was Anna Wintour, the legendary editor-in-chief of Vogue and she wore the perfect outfit for that role. A floor-length dress belted at the waist with high neck and puff sleeves.

Accessorised with a statement necklace, her trademark oversized glasses and a metallic tailored coat with severely structured shoulders, she left no one in doubt who was in charge of Vogue World.
Overdoses caused by combined fentanyl and stimulants including cocaine and meth have spiked 50-fold in just over a decade.

The rates of fentanyl overdoses that also involve powerful stimulants have grown so precipitously over the years that addiction experts have dubbed this the fourth wave of the devastating opioid crisis that still has a stranglehold on the US.

Researchers reported that the proportion of drug overdoses involving both fentanyl and a stimulant rose from less than one percent in 2010 to nearly a third by 2021.

Compounding the tragedy even further, many users unwittingly consume fentanyl  minute doses of which are enough to kill  as it is frequently used as a cutting agent in cocaine and other illicit drugs to extend the supply and the high.

Naloxone has proven a game changer for reversing opioid overdoses in the process, having already saved thousands of lives, but the antidote does nothing to reverse overdoses from other drugs, leaving first responders without an effective stopgap.

After the first wave spurred by prescription opioids came the second wave driven by a shift to heroin, followed by the third wave driven by an explosion in demand for and supply of fentanyl. This fourth wave of the opioid addiction epidemic began in earnest in 2015

In the above graph, the height of each bar shows the total number of drug overdose deaths occurring in that year. As overdose deaths rose in the United States from 38,329 in 2010 to 106,699 in 2021, the percent involving both fentanyl and stimulants rose from 0.6 percent to 32.3 percent

In May last year, Mac Miller's drug supplier was sentenced to more than 17 years in prison for distributing counterfeit oxycodone laced with fentanyl that, combined with cocaine use, caused the rapper's fatal overdose in 2018

As overdose deaths ballooned from around 38,000 in 2010 to more than 106,000 in 2021, the overdose rate involving fentanyl alongside a stimulant climbed.

The percent of overdose deaths in the US involving both fentanyl and stimulants increased from 0.6 percent (235 overdoses) in 2010 to about 32 percent (34,429 overdoses) in 2021, with the sharpest rise starting in 2015.

The researchers combed through a mountain of death records from the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions Wide-Ranging Online Database for Epidemiologic Research (WONDER) from 2010 through 2021.

They were then able to measure the annual percentages of overdoses involving fentanyl alone, stimulants alone, fentanyl and stimulants combined, and non-fentanyl or stimulant drugs.

During this time period, overdoses involving fentanyl without any additional stimulant also skyrocketed from slightly over seven percent in 2010 to nearly 36 percent eleven years later.

Overdoses involving stimulants alone remained relatively stable, though, from nearly 15 percent in 2010 to slightly under 18 percent in 2021.

This fourth wave of the opioid addiction epidemic, which had its start in the late 90s with the advent of extremely potent prescription pills like OxyContin, began in earnest in 2015, about two years after fentanyl overtook heroin as the deadliest opioid on the streets.

After the first wave spurred by prescription opioids came the second wave driven by a shift to heroin, followed by the third wave driven by an explosion in demand for and supply of fentanyl.

Dr Joseph Friedman, an addiction researcher at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA said: Fentanyl has ushered in a polysubstance overdose crisis, meaning that people are mixing fentanyl with other drugs, like stimulants, but also countless other synthetic substances. This poses many health risks and new challenges for healthcare providers.

We have data and medical expertise about treating opioid use disorders, but comparatively little experience with the combination of opioids and stimulants together, or opioids mixed with other drugs.

Deaths caused by fentanyl in the US surged in the 2010s. At the start of the decade, 2,666 Americans died of a fentanyl overdose. This figure shot up to 19,413 by 2016. Covid made the situation worse, with a record 72,484 deaths recorded in 2021

Deaths caused by fentanyl in the US surged in the 2010s. At the start of the decade, 2,666 Americans died of a fentanyl overdose. This figure shot up to 19,413 by 2016. Covid made the situation worse, with a record 72,484 deaths recorded in 2021

Upon examining the issue closely, Dr Friedman and fellow researchers who authored the study found that the primary stimulant combined with fentanyl in southern and western states was methamphetamine while cocaine was the combination of choice in northeastern states.

In 2021, fentanyl overdoses involving meth were most common in western states including Alaska, California, Hawaii, New Mexico, Oregon, and Washington, as well as West Virginia and Kentucky.

In a wide swath of northeastern states such as Rhode Island, Vermont, and Massachusetts, meanwhile, cocaine was the most common stimulant involved.

Dr Friedman said: We suspect this pattern reflects the rising availability of, and preference for, low-cost, high-purity methamphetamine throughout the US, and the fact that the Northeast has a well-entrenched pattern of illicit cocaine use that has so far resisted the complete takeover by methamphetamine seen elsewhere in the country.

The rise of polysubstance overdoses is not monitored in the same way as overdoses attributed to fentanyl alone, as US drug surveillance is limited in how much data it can gather about poisoning involving more than just one drug on its own.

Researchers also warned about the rise of sinister counterfeit pills disguised as prescription drugs sold on the street including Percocet and Xanax.

Many people find out too late that their drugs were laden with fentanyl which can prove deadly at infinitesimal doses - think an amount that would fit on the tip of a pencil.

They said: In recent years, counterfeit pills have grown to represent over a quarter of all illicit fentanyl seizures.

Counterfeit pills have the potential to transform overdose risk as they may expand the markets for illicit synthetic drugs to subpopulations, such as adolescents, who may be less likely to consume powder fentanyl products.

This is not a new problem. In 2018, rapper Mac Miller passed away after an accidental overdose due to a fatal combination of cocaine with pills that dealers who sold to him alleged were oxycodone and Xanax. The pills were actually pressed with fentanyl, enough to kill the young rapper at just 26 years old.

The study by UCLA researchers was published Wednesday in the journal Addiction.
Thousands of front-line workers are suing manufacturing companies over fears they have been exposed to dangerous forever chemicals.

A wave of lawsuits have been filed by firefighters and military workers who are all seeing above-average rates of cancer among their ranks.

They claim that it's the toxic chemicals that are in everything from their protective uniforms to the aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) firefighters use to extinguish certain types of fires, to the contaminated water around military bases.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluorinated substances, are found in everything from food packaging to clothing and have been linked to several lasting health problems, including several types of cancer.

In March, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the first time proposed limits on the chemicals in drinking water.

Firefighter Rod MacKinnon, left, and Lt. Chris Stevens don their turnout gear as they respond to a call at the Engine 21 fire station, Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023, in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston

Boston firefighter Daniel Ranahan, left, and retired Brockton deputy fire chief Joe Marchetti pose at the Engine 28 fire station, Friday, July 14, 2023, in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston. Both Ranahan and Marchetti are cancer survivors. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)

As of August 2023, more than 3,300 lawsuits have been filed over AFFF and PFAS contamination against companies that make firefighting products and the chemicals used in them.

AFFF is a fire-stopping foam, which is highly effective but is now known to be toxic in humans.

Military bases have also come under fire for contaminated water. A report by EWG last year found that PFAS were at 'dangerously high levels' in the drinking water of communities near US Department of Defense (DoD) installations.

In June, industrial giant 3M, which manufactured PFAS and the firefighting foam, announced it would pay at least $10.3 billion to settle a class-action suit. DuPont and other manufacturers reached a $1.185 billion agreement with water utility companies in June.

Now PFAS compounds have been found in firefighters' gear. The chemicals were added to repel water and contaminants like oil and prevent moisture-related burns.

The manufacturers of the garments claim they are safe and that it is the cancer-causing chemicals in the fire the men are exposed to that's responsible for rising cancer rates.

Boston firefighter Daniel Ranahan had heard about colleagues getting cancer, but he was stunned when doctors discovered a tumor in his chest.

He was only 30 and had been in the Boston Fire Department for less than a decade.

But as he investigated his diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma in October 2020 and sought successful treatment, he learned he and others wore gear that contained PFAS.

'You always hear about the dangers. You just never think it's going be you,' Mr Ranahan, who stopped working due to his cancer, said.

He is among thousands of firefighters nationwide who sued PFAS manufacturers and companies that make firefighting gear and foam, seeking damages for their exposure.

'These guys put this on day in and day out to protect neighborhoods and wherever they are working,' he said.

Cancer has replaced heart disease as the biggest killer of firefighters, and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) attributes 66 percent of firefighter deaths between 2002 and 2019 to cancer.

Firefighters are at higher risk of getting several types of cancer, according to IAFF, including twice as likely to get testicular cancer and mesothelioma than the general population.

Firefighters are exposed to a laundry list of carcinogens from fires burning hotter and faster than ever before  often due to increased petroleum products in homes.

A Brockton firefighter walks past protective gear at Station 1, Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023, in Brockton, Mass. Firefighters around the country are concerned that gear laced with the toxic industrial compound PFAS could be one reason why cancer rates among their ranks are rising. The chemical, which has been linked to health problems, including several types of cancer, is used in turnout gear to repel water and other substances when fighting a fire

But as they learn more about PFAS, a growing number are convinced their personal protective equipment (PPE) is sickening them.

'We had no idea that the gear that we were putting on every day was essentially loaded with PFAS,' said IAFF General President Edward Kelly, who was elected in 2021 on a campaign in part to address the dangers of PFAS in gear.

'As more scientific data availed itself, it became obvious that our greatest exposure to carcinogens is our daily donning and doffing of PPE bunker gear,' he continued.

One manufacturer being sued, 3M Co., said that it 'manufactures a variety of personal protective equipment products that meet nationally recognized standards to help protect first responders facing high-hazard environments.'

Last year, the company announced it would stop manufacturing PFAS by the end of 2025 and would work to discontinue using the chemicals in its products.

Another defendant, W. L. Gore & Associates, said the PFAS compound PTFE used in its clothing is nontoxic and safe.

Company spokesperson Amy Calhoun said: 'Based on the body of available and reliable science, Gore concludes its firefighting products are not the cause of cancers impacting firefighters, who by the nature of their important work are sometimes exposed to cancer-causing chemicals from fires.'

The American Chemistry Council said in a statement that 'PFAS-based materials are the only viable options for some key equipment that meet the vital performance properties required for firefighting gear.'

The PFAS has been in the gear for decades. But the wife of retired Worcester, Massachusetts fire lieutenant Paul Cotter, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in October 2014, raised concerns about it in 2016.

Until then, many firefighters had not heard of PFAS or did not know it was in their gear.

Gear makers told Diane Cotter there were only trace amounts of PFAS and that it was safe.

'I was attacked by firefighters when discussing the idea that chemicals in the gear could be causing cancer,' she said.

Ms Cotter sent patches of gear to Graham Peaslee, a University of Notre Dame professor who studies PFAS, for testing.

'It was loaded with PFAS. That was the first eye-opening moment that there may be more than just trace amounts,' Mr Peaslee, who also found the chemicals on gloves and in firehouse dust, said.

Firefighter William Hill, of Brockton, Mass., displays protective gear at Station 1, Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023, in Brockton, Mass. Firefighters around the country are concerned that gear laced with the toxic industrial compound PFAS could be one reason why cancer rates among their ranks are rising. The chemical, which has been linked to health problems including several types of cancer, is used in turnout gear to repel water and other substances when fighting a fire. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

Brockton firefighter Tyler Palie works in the patrol booth at Station 1, Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023, in Brockton, Mass. Firefighters around the country are concerned that gear laced with the toxic industrial compound PFAS could be one reason why cancer rates among their ranks are rising. The chemical, which has been linked to health problems including several types of cancer, is used in turnout gear to repel water and other substances when fighting a fire

'They come off, and they pose risks,' he said.

Courtney Carignan, an exposure scientist and epidemiologist at Michigan State University, said she found PFAS at twice the levels of the general population in the blood of more than half of the 18 firefighters she tested in Nantucket and Fall River, Massachusetts.

She also found that PFAS in gear was transferred to the skin of firefighters.

But Dr Carignan is still investigating how much the gear contributed to increased levels of PFAS in the blood and whether PFAS exposure may be causing or contributing to cancer.

'Even though we know PFAS is in the gear, we still dont know how much exposure that is,' she said.

The revelation of PFAS in the gear sparked a campaign by firefighters to find safer alternatives and to hold companies responsible.

Lawsuits on behalf of firefighters argue they were exposed to significant PFAS levels, and companies knew the gear contained PFAS and that it can cause serious health problems. The suits also allege companies misrepresented their products as safe.

The IAFF, which represents more than 340,000 US and Canadian firefighters, decided in 2021 to no longer accept sponsorships or advertising from the chemical industry and to oppose PFAS in turnout gear.

A Congressional bill introduced in July would accelerate the search for safer alternatives and support firefighter training to reduce exposure from existing gear.

Seven states, including Washington, New Hampshire and New York, passed bills requiring companies to disclose PFAS in their gear, according to Safer States, a coalition of environmental health groups.

Several more states introduced or enacted bills this year that provide funds to purchase PFAS-free gear or prohibit the manufacture or sale of gear containing the chemicals, according to Emily Sampson, an environment policy analyst at the National Conference of State Legislatures.

For most fire departments, there is no easy fix. Replacing gear is expensive - one set can cost upwards of $4,000  and finding alternatives has proven challenging. Some companies are promoting a PFAS-free outer layer, but that doesn't solve the problem because the other two layers still contain PFAS, the IAFF said.

Among the hurdles, according to an IAFF lawsuit filed in March, is that the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard for gear can only be met with PFAS-infused material. The suit accuses the NFPA of working with several gear makers to maintain that requirement. It seeks damages and an end to the standard.

Chris Dubay, NFPA vice president and chief engineer, said in a statement that the standard 'does not specify or require the use of any particular materials, chemicals or treatments for that gear.'

He said the group has no 'special agreements or relationships with any company or organization' in the development of standards.

'The manufacturers who are producing this gear owe it to the fire service to come up with an alternative,' Brockton Fire Chief Brian Nardelli, who has heard of companies promoting gear with less PFAS but is reluctant to buy it for his 231-member department without more proof, said.

Instead, his department tries to limit firefighter exposure to gear that's been integral to firefighter identity. They would take it everywhere, including charity events.

Now, Brockton discourages firefighters from wearing turnout gear in living quarters and encourages them to wash it after fires. It's stored on trucks and is only to be worn for serious calls like fires and car accidents.

'Guys have seen everyone who has gotten cancer, guys dying from cancer,' said William Hill, the president of the Brockton Fire Fighters Local 144 who was successfully treated for testicular cancer.

'Being told that PFAS is in the gear, guys don't want to take the chance of being overexposed.'
Charities want a sugar and salt food tax similar to the one imposed on soft drinks

The UK needs a new tax on salt and sugar to win the battle against obesity, heart disease, diabetes and cancer, a campaign group has said.

The move would prevent 2million preventable cases of the diseases over the next 25 years, according to a coalition of health bodies.

It would also slash the number of obese Brits by a tenth and raise 3billion a year, which should fund healthy eating programmes, Recipe for Change said.

Charities behind the group claim a new food taxing regime is needed to help Brits lose weight 'in a food environment that is rigged against them'.

Britain needs a new tax on salt and sugar in food to win the battle against obesity, heart disease, diabetes and cancer , a campaign group of charities says

This chart shows the percentage of people in England who are overweight (pink), obese (red) and morbidly obese (deep red)

Recipe for Change, a coalition of health charities that has the backing of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and Royal Society for Public Health, made the call in a report.

They hope to pressure the Government to go further on tackling obesity  an issue which costs the NHS an estimated 6.5billion each year.

In their report the coalition suggest two options for salt and sugar levies.

One is a flat charge of 3 per kg of sugar and 6kg of salt in foods, with an exception being made for pure versions of these ingredients to avoid taxing home cooks.

Such measures were proposed by former Government food adviser and co-founder of the Leon restaurant chain Henry Dimbleby to help combat Britain's obesity crisis.

But he resigned from his role in March this year, citing a lack of appetite within Government for necessary changes.

The other option would only apply a levy to specific non-staple foods like sweets, cakes, crisps and snacks.

To back up its call, Recipe for Change commissioned modelling from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine on the impact of an industry-wide sugar and salt tax.

It shows that a tax would cut the amount of salt and sugar that the average Brit eats per day by 0.9g and 15g, respectively.

Such reductions would help prevent 2million cases of preventable disease brought on from high salt or sugar consumption over the next 25 years.

This includes 1million cases of cardiovascular disease, 571,000 cases of type 2 diabetes and 11,000 cases of cancer, as well as 249,000 cases of respiratory disease.

The modelling also suggests that a sugar and salt tax would reduce the number of overweight and obese Brits by up to 10.9 per cent.

The average adult Brit consumes around 8.6g of salt every day, while women consume 44g of sugar and men have 55g.

By keeping people healthier  and able to work  for longer, the changes would add 77.9billion to the economy in the same time period, the report claims.

NHS recommendations state Brits should eat 6g of salt and 30g of sugar each day.

Recipe for Change modelled its proposed tax off the success of the soft drink levy, introduced in 2018, which led to manufacturers reformulating their recipes and reducing the overall sugar levels in their drinks by 34.3 per cent.

Katharine Jenner, director of the Obesity Health Alliance, one of the collation's core members, said the case for action from Government was clear.

This graph shows the impact of the levy on sugar in soft drinks on the amount of total sugar sold (yellow line) and impact on soft drink sales (red line). Recipe for Change argue this shows such measures work and don't actually harm the industry itself

'Hundreds of policies to address obesity have failed to deliver, because they have relied on individuals having to change their behaviour, in a food environment that is rigged against them,' she said.

'The food we buy is jam packed with sugar and most of our food comes ready salted  we need to put healthier food on the shelves by introducing a levy on industry to encourage them to change their recipes.'

Previous research has suggested a salt and sugar tax could potentially raise up to 3billion per year.

Recipe for Change said that profits from enforcing the levy should go back into programmes promoting healthy eating, particularly in children.

Polling done by the Obesity Health Alliance suggests 68 per cent of the public support such a strategy if revenue was invested in children's health.

READ MORE: As Mounjaro is approved in the UK, here is all you need to know about the diabetes drug hailed as the 'King Kong' of weight loss Tirzepatide, sold under the brand name Mounjaro, has been approved for use for diabetics in the NHS Advertisement

Recipe for Change argued that a tax is needed, as voluntarily calling for food manufactures to cut sugar and salt has failed to make an impact.

It pointed to Government analysis showing this approach had only reduced levels of salt and sugar by 3.4 per cent compared to a 20 per cent target.

Barbara Crowther, children's food campaign manager at Sustain, another of the coalition members, said ministers should build on the success of the soft drink levy.

'Recipe for Change is calling on Government to build on what works and make it less profitable for companies to manufacture and sell unhealthy products and incentivise better business in healthier food,' she said.

'We need investment in children's health more than ever right now, and this could also be a great way to raise revenues from a junk food industry that is making huge profits at the expense of our health.'

Responding to the report, a Government spokesperson said: 'We have already brought in measures to reduce the amount of sugar and salt in foods, particularly those aimed at children.

'Our Soft Drinks Industry Levy has nearly halved the amount of sugar in soft drinks, while the sugar reduction programme has significantly reduced the amount of sugar in foods popular with children  including breakfast cereals and yogurts.

'Thanks to our salt reduction programme, the amount of salt in food has fallen by around 20 per cent  helping to prevent nearly 70,000 heart attacks and strokes while reducing pressure on the NHS.

'We are also taking firm action to tackle obesity  which costs the NHS around 6.5 billion a year  including by restricting the placement of less healthy foods in stores and online and introducing calorie labelling on menus.'

Previous Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a 'world-leading' obesity plan in 2020, partly inspired by how his own weight had put him at greater risk of becoming severely ill when he caught Covid.

However, his Government shied away from the more radical proposals put forward by then food tsar Mr Dimbleby, such as taxes on salt and sugar, after it was calculated that the proposals could add 60 to each person's annual food bill.

Those proposals that did survive  a ban on buy one get one free deals on unhealthy snacks and junk food adverts before 9pm  have since been delayed by current PM Rishi Sunak.

An estimated 64 per cent of British adults are now overweight, with rates expected to soar even more in the future.

Eating too much sugar can contribute to weight gain with obesity itself linked to an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease and strokes as well as some cancers.

Excess salt consumption is linked to high blood pressure which puts organs like your heart under extra strain and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
The government will back Martha's rule, a campaign to give families and patients the right to a second opinion if they feel their concerns are being dismissed, officials confirmed today.

Martha Mills died in hospital in 2021 after developing sepsis, with a coroner ruling she could have survived if medics had transferred her to intensive care earlier.

The 13-year-old's death, which followed a bank holiday weekend, came despite concerns from her parents about her condition at the time, with medics ignoring them and instead seeking to 'manage' them.

In response to her death, her family have called for Martha's rule to be implemented across the health service.

It would see patients, parents and carers have the right to an urgent second opinion if they felt serious concerns were not being addressed.

Martha Mills (pictured) died in hospital in 2021 after developing sepsis with a coroner ruling she could have survived if medics had transferred her to intensive care earlier. Her death, which followed a bank holiday weekend, came despite concerns from the 13-year-old's parents about her condition at the time, with medics ignoring them and instead seeking to 'manage' them

Health secretary Steve Barclay confirmed today that ministers are 'committed' to implementing the rule, insisting the case for it is 'compelling'. NHS England will now begin work to action it, he said

Health secretary Steve Barclay confirmed today that ministers are 'committed' to implementing the rule, insisting the case for it is 'compelling'.

NHS England will now begin work to action it, he said.

Martha's mother, Merope Mills, an editor at the Guardian, said she and her husband, Paul Laity, raised concerns about Martha's deteriorating health a number of times but these were not acted upon.

The teenager was being looked after at King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in south London after sustaining an injury to her pancreas following a bike accident on a family holiday in Wales.

But after spending weeks on the ward, she developed an infection.

WHAT IS SEPSIS? Sepsis occurs when the body reacts to an infection by attacking its own organs and tissues. Some 44,000 people die from sepsis every year in the UK. Worldwide, someone dies from the condition every 3.5 seconds. Sepsis has similar symptoms to flu, gastroenteritis and a chest infection. These include: S lurred speech or confusion

lurred speech or confusion E xtreme shivering or muscle pain

xtreme shivering or muscle pain P assing no urine in a day

assing no urine in a day S evere breathlessness

evere breathlessness I t feels like you are dying

t feels like you are dying S kin mottled or discoloured Symptoms in children are: Fast breathing

Fits or convulsions

Mottled, bluish or pale skin

Rashes that do not fade when pressed

Lethargy

Feeling abnormally cold Under fives may be vomiting repeatedly, not feeding or not urinating for 12 hours. Anyone can develop sepsis but it is most common in people who have recently had surgery, have a urinary catheter or have stayed in hospital for a long time. Other at-risk people include those with weak immune systems, chemotherapy patients, pregnant women, the elderly and the very young. Treatment varies depending on the site of the infection but involves antibiotics, IV fluids and oxygen, if necessary. Source: UK Sepsis Trust and NHS Choices Advertisement

Martha's condition worsened daily and she developed signs of sepsis, a life threatening overreaction to an infection where the body's immune system starts to damage the tissue and organs.

While her mother voiced concerns to NHS staff that the youngster would go into septic shock over the August bank holiday weekend, her warnings were dismissed.

Martha then died in the early hours of Tuesday's morning.

Doctors treating her had not attended optional sepsis training and failed to move her to intensive care.

One of the trust's own intensive care doctors later told Martha's inquest he would '100 per cent' have admitted her if he had seen her.

King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has since apologised for mistakes in her care.

Speaking on the BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Mr Barclay said he made the decision after a meeting with Ms Mills on Wednesday.

He said: 'For everyone that has heard it, it is an absolutely heartbreaking case.

'I'm determined that we ensure we learn the lessons from it and very keen to learn from best international practice.'

'Ryan's Rule' was introduced in hospitals, in Queensland, Australia, after Ryan Saunders, who was just two, died in 2007 from toxic shock syndrome triggered by a streptococcal infection left fatally undetected.

Mr Barclay said there are 'international lessons', particularly Australia, that could be learned from giving patients a direct line to a second opinion.

He added: 'I particularly want to give much more credence to the voice of patients.

'I think a key part of this measure is ensuring that patients feel heard and can get a second opinion.'

While it is not known how quickly the rule will be implemented, he told the Today programme: 'There's scope for us to move much more quickly in terms of paediatrics and ensuring, particularly in that area, we adopt quickly.'

The rule must be applied in a way 'that's easy to communicate to patients rather than having lots of different schemes across the country.', he added.

Martha's mother, Merope Mills, pictured, has said she and her husband, Paul Laity, raised concerns about Martha's deteriorating health a number of times but these were not acted upon

He said he had asked Henrietta Hughes, the Government's patient safety commissioner, to work with NHS England to look at the proposals and to build on evidence from NHS trusts where there are already schemes.

In a statement published on X, formerly known as Twitter, Merope Mills welcomed the announcement, saying: 'I met the secretary of state for health yesterday and welcome the news that he will introduce Martha's rule across NHS England hospitals.

'He is prioritising its introduction and is ready to allocate funds to the initiative.

'It will be one standardised and recognisable right that will become part of patients' experience on hospital wards.'

She added: 'A team has been appointed to work out implementation; we appreciate Stephen Barclay's commitment to work at speed in order to make Martha's rule happen as soon as possible.

'Our incredible daughter Martha lost her life needlessly, far too young.

'We hope this new rule will put some power back into the hands of patients and prevent unnecessary deaths.'

It comes as NHS England medical director Professor Sir Stephen Powis also said on Monday that the change was needed.

'Patient and relative voice is paramount,' the medical director said.

'Over the last six months or so we at NHS England have been working with a number of hospital across England to work out what sort of methodologies, what sort of processes, will ensure that that voice is heard when it needs to be heard.'
Saudi, Chinese companies to launch construction of 100MW data centers in Saudi Arabia

Xinhua) 13:19, September 14, 2023

RIYADH, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabian ICT service provider Saudi Call, Chinese Shanghai Lumaotong Group (LMT) and China Mobile International Limited (CMI) will launch the construction of data centers in the kingdom.

According to a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) inked in the Saudi capital Riyadh on Monday, the parties will cooperate for the construction of 100MW Tier III &Tier IV Saudi Call Crownland Data Centers in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Neom.

These facilities will offer integrated solutions, including storage, network coverage, and database services, to support the ever-growing business needs of the region's digital economy, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and big data.

Saudi Call Chairman Ibrahim M. Al Sheikh expected the cooperation project will facilitate the development of Saudi's digital economy, contributing to the realization of the Saudi Vision 2030.

Chairman of LMT Group Zhan Lujin said that LMT will meet the needs of information and data services from emerging industry sectors and Saudi enterprises, and will support the region's Belt and Road Initiative projects.

Bonnie Chen, Managing Director of CMI Saudi Arabia, said that CMI will provide a one-stop solution and professional services for the project, aiming to create industry-leading data centers with all parties and ensure quality and secure data transmission services to support the growth of the global digital economy.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Britain is at risk of losing its place as a cancer research leader with patients missing out on taking part in breakthrough clinical trials due to red tape, experts warn.

Cancer specialists told MPs today that pharmaceutical companies are shying away from launching new clinical trials in the UK for the first time due to being 'mired' in paperwork.

These include delays at the UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), which is taking a 'ridiculous' nine months to sign off trials for new cancer therapies.

One expert pleaded with MPs to tackle the problem, warning it would mean Britons with cancer could miss out on the latest treatments.

Another said cancer research should be given similar rapid approval as Covid treatments considering it is one of Britain's biggest killers.

Professor Kevin Harrington warned MPs that Britain's position as a leader in cancer research was at risk

Professor Sir John Bell, an expert in medicine at Oxford University, said the UK's 'slow' and 'pedestrian' regulatory system needed an overhaul

Dr Susan Galbraith, of AstraZeneca, said UK cancer patients were missing out on treatments already approved in the EU

Professor Kevin Harrington, head of the division of radiotherapy and imaging at the Institute of Cancer Research, told MPs of the Health that Britain's position as a leader in cancer research was at risk.

'We are in the pack but we're in danger of dropping down,' he said.

'We're being outpaced by others.'

He listed problems with setting up clinical trials as well as 'frustration' in the length of time it took the NHS to adopt discoveries as cancer treatments compared to other health systems as two contributing factors.

'The UK is being seen as increasingly at risk, unfortunately, as a less favourable environment in which to conduct translational clinical research or indeed clinical trials,' he said.

'We are not as nimble or quick as we could be in setting up and delivering on research.

'We don't always approve the novel therapies that we are part of establishing.'

Professor Harrington added that, for the first time in his 20-year career in clinical research, companies were now avoiding Britain as a place to hold trials of new treatments warning patients would miss out as a result.

'If there's anything we can do, then I would make that plea, not just for the researchers, but most importantly for the patients who miss out on those opportunities,' he said.

He added that speeding up approvals at the MHRA, which needs to sign off clinical trials held in the UK, would be a good step.

'We heard recently for one clinical trial that it might take six months before we got an opinion from the MHRA,' he said.

'That needs to be much more rapid, we need to be in a position where we can set things up far more quickly.'

Professor Harrington also called for a more central approval system to run trials in the NHS once the MHRA had given the sign-off.

He described how trial organisers have now had to 'reinvent the wheel' and get approval from every hospital involved.

Professor Sir John Bell, an expert in medicine at Oxford University, agreed that the UK's 'slow' and 'pedestrian' regulatory and treatment approval system needed an overhaul.

He said he was aware of 'ridiculous' nine-month waits for clinical trials to get approval from the MHRA.

'We really do make it unnecessarily difficult to start a trial, to initiate first patients in, to get the things to run properly,' he said.

NHS figures on cancer waiting times showed that just six in ten (62.6 per cent) cancer patients were seen within the two-month target

'We got a million people who are trying to regulate something that needs light-touch regulation.'

Sir John said while safety assessment was critical, UK regulators are also assessing unnecessary parts of trial, which slows the whole process down.

'A lot of this upfront approval is unnecessary, for safety its crucial but you don't need to evaluate these trials for efficacy, that's the company's problem,' he said.

'We've ended up with a system where they are evaluating all kinds of things they don't need to.'

When asked by MPs what was causing the delay at the MHRA, Sir John replied it was partly due to a backlog that built up after the MHRA left the EU framework for clinical trial approval.

READ MORE: Salt and sugar tax would tackle UK's bulging waistline and prevent 2MILLION heart disease, cancer and diabetes cases, health group says Britain needs a new tax on salt and sugar in food to win the battle against obesity, heart disease, diabetes and cancer , a campaign group of charities says Advertisement

He described the regulator as having 'crashed the car' in the transition but noted Brexit presented an opportunity to do things differently from our neighbours.

Sir John proposed a default approval system where clinical trials got the go ahead as long as the MHRA didn't spot any problems, which would be highly competitive compared to the rest of Europe.

'In other words, "send us your proposal and if you haven't heard back in a month you can assume it's been approved and you can get one with it",' he said.

But the expert added he was worried about the NHS's capacity to implement new cancer breakthroughs.

Referencing an ongoing trial on spotting pancreatic cancer at its earliest stages, when it is most treatable, he feared the health service may be unable to help the patients identified.

'What worries me about this is that the NHS isn't ready to take it up,' he said.

'Let's pretend we can diagnose half the pancreatic cancers early, well that's pretty interesting, but it puts a burden on other bits of the NHS, who's going to operate on them?'

Another expert quizzed by MPs was Dr Susan Galbraith, executive vice president of oncology research and development at AstraZeneca.

She used an example of a breast cancer drug developed by the company available in the EU but not in the UK as an example of the lengthy approvals process for new treatments.

'[The drug] has been available in France in 2022 and Germany since January 2023,' she said.

'We're uncertain this medicine is ever going to reach UK patients despite strong clinical demand.

'Even in the best case, we're going to be a year behind approving this medicine compared to Germany and France, and that's just one example.'

She added that cancer research should be treated with the same urgency as Covid, considering the human cost of the disease.

The decision to scrap the seven cancer targets has sparked huge backlash. The commitments being ditched include the two-week urgent referral from a GP for suspected cancer and a maximum two-week wait for breast-cancer patients to see a specialist. The NHS will now be expected to ensure 75 per cent of patients have a diagnosis or all-clear within 28 days. There will also be a maximum 31-day wait for patients to start their first treatment and a 62-day target for treatment to begin after a GP referral

'The urgency should be the same because you look at the number of people who are unnecessarily dying, who could be saved, it starts to come on to the same scale as what we addressed in the Covid pandemic,' Dr Galbraith said.

READ MORE: Mother reveals how she spotted toddler's cancer symptom while she was eating dinner Fact-box text Evie Prior was just 11 months old when she was diagnosed with a rare cancer that consumed three-quarters of her eye Advertisement

'So the sense of urgency should be there to make a difference to one of the biggest killers that we have within the UK, which is cancer.'

Experts have repeatedly criticised the state of cancer care in the NHS in the UK.

Despite multiple breakthroughs in cancer care meaning more than a million lives have been saved, the health service has repeatedly failed to hit its targets for diagnoses and treatment.

NHS figures on cancer waiting times released today showed that just 62.6 per cent of cancer patients were seen within the two-month target.

Official guidelines state 85 per cent of cancer patients should be seen within this time-frame.

But this target has not been met nationally since December 2015.

Meanwhile, almost a quarter (74.1 per cent) of patients urgently referred for suspected cancer were diagnosed or had cancer ruled out within 28 days, up from 73.5 per cent the previous month. The target is 75 per cent.

The proportion of cancer patients who saw a specialist within two weeks of being referred urgently by their GP fell from 80.5 per cent in June to 77.5 per cent in July, missing the 93 per cent target.

Several cancer targets are also controversially being scrapped from October, with ministers accepting the NHS's request to streamline its performance targets.

The reforms will see the number of cancer waiting time indicators that hospitals are measured against slashed from ten to three.

Earlier this month a study also predicted the number of people getting preventable caner will hit around 184,000 this year and cost the economy 78billion.
Scratched nonstick pans can 'leech millions of microplastics into our food'

Dr Poonam Desai posted on TikTok explaining why she throws out chipped pans

A doctor on TikTok has warned against using scratched pans due to the microplastics they can release.

Dr Poonam Desai, who practices in New York and goes by doctoranddancer on social media, posted a video last month about why she throws out her chipped nonstick or ceramic pans.

The video, which has garnered almost half a million views, shows Dr Desai explaining to her 22,500 followers that nonstick pans can 'leech millions of microplastics into our food.'

'Microplastics are endocrine disruptors. They can cause hormone imbalances, fertility issues, and even increase our risk of cancer,' she said.

Dr Poonam Desai, who practices in New York and goes by doctoranddancer on social media, posted a video last month about why she throws out her chipped nonstick or ceramic pans

Researchers found that a single scratch on a nonstick pan can lead to millions of dangerous microparticles entering a person's food and expose them to long-term harm

The endocrine system regulates how much of different hormones are released in our bodies.

Microplastics come from a range of sources, including larger plastic pieces that have broken apart, such as a pan coating.

Some microplastics contain per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS), also known as forever chemicals.

These are stick and heat-proof particles used to make millions of kitchenware items in the US.

In recent years, they have been linked to various health problems, including several types of cancer, autism and infertility.

A previous Australian study found that a single scratch on the surface of a pan can put millions of microplastics into food and homes.

The researchers used light waves to measure microscopic particles and found that just one five-centimeter (cm) scratch to Teflon pans  perhaps from a spatula or spoon  released up to 2.3 million microplastics.

Overall, more than 9,000 plastic particles were dispersed within the pan.

Despite the health risks, there are no federal regulations in the US on the amount of PFAS allowed on the surface of manufactured goods.

Dr Desai said she also avoids using ceramic pans because they 'have a layer of aluminum under [them] and aluminum can leech into our foods.'

Pure ceramic pans are usually considered a safer alternative to nonstick pans because it does not contain PFAS or any metals.

Ceramic-coated pans, on the other hand, are usually made of aluminum with a ceramic-based non-stick coating.

If the particles leave the pan, they might get into food cooked in there.

Once a person eats food contaminated with PFAS chemicals, the particles will remain in the body for long periods of time, as it very slowly leaves through urine.

They have been deemed 'forever chemicals' because they take nearly a decade to break down in the body and never break down in the environment.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not set an upper limit as to the maximum amount of PFAS that is safe to consume in food.

In lieu of FDA regulations, researchers recommend people take more care in the types of products they choose to use.
A total of 42 Pirola cases 37 in England, and 5 in Scotland, have been spotted

A total of 42 cases of the super-mutated Pirola Covid variant have now been detected in the UK, up from 36 last week.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) revealed where in Britain the new Covid variant, scientifically called BA.2.86, has been found.

The East of England had the largest number of cases thanks to a massive care home outbreak of 28 cases in Norfolk in late August.

Excluding this singular event, London was the UK's Pirola hotspot, logging six cases, followed by Scotland, which has reported five.

Of England's 37 cases, spotted as of September 11, seven had been hospitalised, while two were detected among A&E patients. No deaths have been recorded among those infected.

Separate data from the UKHSA show that Covid admissions in England have reached a five-month high.

The East of England had the largest number of cases thanks to a massive care home outbreak of 28 cases in Norfolk in late August

Globally, more than 100 cases of Pirola have been detected including in Denmark, South Africa and the US

Virologists have warned it is too early to reliably pinpoint specific symptoms but they could include a runny nose, sore throat and fatigue

The UKHSA said only two cases found in the community are believed to be linked to one another, suggesting the virus is spreading among the public.

Pirola now accounts for 2.6 per cent of all Covid cases genetically analysed in England.

However, UKHSA analysts said there was still insufficient data to estimate the variant's growth rate.

While the UK's official Pirola count is 42, the true total will be higher as it is spreading in the community undetected, experts say.

Britons are no longer testing en masse like they were earlier in the pandemic  with community testing ending in May 2022.

Therefore, confirmed cases are an underestimate of how many Britons are infected with Covid and how many of those have Pirola.

Dr Renu Bindra, UKHSA incident director, said that while Pirola has a 'significant number of mutations' compared with other variants in circulation, the data so far is 'too limited to draw firm conclusions' about the impact this will have.

She added: 'It is clear that there is some degree of widespread community transmission, both in the UK and globally, and we are working to ascertain the full extent of this.

'In the meantime, it remains vital that all those eligible come forward to receive their autumn vaccine as soon as it is offered to them.'

Concerns about Pirola, and a potential surge in cases, prompted ministers to bring forward the start date for the autumn Covid and flu jab rollouts by an entire month.

Pirola, like other recently emerged Covid variants, is a spin-off of the Omicron strain.

However, its host of mutations, 35 in total, sparked alarm with some experts fearing it would be different enough to effectively dodge the protection offered by Covid vaccines and infection from previous waves.

The UKHSA said it is currently analysing blood samples taken from NHS workers to test how effective the immune response generated by Covid jabs is against Pirola.

Experiments to determine how effective lateral flow tests are at spotting Pirola are also still underway.

The UKHSA also confirmed last month that Covid testing and community surveillance would be ramped up again ahead of winter.

Hospital admissions and numbers of beds occupied by Covid patients had also been rising with daily Covid hospital admissions rising almost 30 per cent since June

Experts have told MailOnline current data suggest that while Pirola is more transmissible than its predecessors, it does not appear to be more severe.

While the true prevalence of the virus is unclear, data from the ZOE Covid study, which tracks self-reported infections, suggests there were 100,516 new cases of symptomatic infection on September 12  double the 50,000 it reported at the start of August.

The study, which is based on data from millions of users of the ZOE app, estimates around 1.2million in the UK are currently infected, roughly one in 57 people.

The figure is the highest for five months, but it is still far lower than the estimated toll during earlier peaks, with it reporting that 3.8million people were infected in April 2022.

Meanwhile, separate UKHSA data shows that Covid hospitalisations are at their highest level since April.

Admissions among patients who tested positive for the virus stood at 4.6 per 100,000 people in the week to September 10, official figures show.

This is up from 3.7 per 100,000 the previous week and the highest since the week ending April 30.

This is still a fraction of the level reached last winter, when the rate stood at 11.8 per 100,000. It is also well below the figures seen during the first year of the pandemic.

The rate has been on a clear upwards trend for the past two months, however.

Rates remain highest among people aged 85 and over, at 51.1 per 100,000, and 75 to 84-year-olds, at 21.2 per 100,000.

Experts predict Covid cases will continue to rise as the UK heads into the autumn, and people mix more indoors.

No Pirola cases have been detected in Wales and Northern Ireland.

Globally more than 100 cases of Pirola have been detected including in Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Israel, Japan, Portugal, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden and the US.
A 21-year-old man is lucky to be alive after two six-foot metal rods pierced through the centre of his body after he fell from a multistorey building.

The man, who is from India and has not been named, had one pole through the left side of his chest and another penetrating across his lower stomach.

The injuries, described as 'unsurvivable' by doctors, shattered his hip bone, pierced a lung, penetrated his diaphragm and went through his rib cage.

They narrowly missed the patient's liver, heart and bowel.

A shocking video shows the moment surgeons at Seven Star Hospital in Nagpur, central India, used a saw to cut the ends of each pole after the patient was resuscitated.

The 21-year-old man is lucky to be alive after two six-foot metal rods pierced through the centre of his body after falling from a multistorey building

A shocking video showed the moment surgeons used a saw to cut the ends of each pole after the patient was resuscitated

The man fell while working, though details of his job weren't shared.

The 44-second clip showed the man lying face up on a hospital bed some medics held each pole and others hacked through the metal rods with an angle grinder.

Each pole was 16mm wide  around the same width as five pound coins stacked on top of each other.

Doctors said they had to cut the poles because they were too long to fit in the lifts going to the emergency theatres.

The hospital report said: 'It was very difficult to remove the lower rod as it was fixed tightly and the patient's [clothing] was fixed inside the bone along with the rod.

'It [had] to be hammered from the opposite side by orthopaedic surgeon, with great difficulty rod was finally removed.'

The injuries, described as 'unsurvivable' by doctors, shattered his hip bone, pierced a lung, penetrated his diaphragm and went through his rib cage. They narrowly missed the patient's liver, heart and bowel

The hospital report said: 'It was very difficult to remove the lower rod as it was fixed tightly and the patient's cloth was fixed inside the bone along with the rod

The accident happened while working near Azam Shah Chowk, Central Avenue, Nagpur, at around 1.35pm on August, 19

The man, who needed to be supported by a ventilator for two days, was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit and was sent home earlier this month

When they opened up the patient during surgery, medics said his 'hip bone was shattered into pieces' and narrowly missed his heart and liver.

Despite cutting the rods before the procedure, medics had to whip the machinery out again during surgery because they were still too big.

The surgeons explained that the huge size of the rods made it difficult for them to stand and operate safely.

The accident happened while the man was working near Azam Shah Chowk, Central Avenue, Nagpur, at around 1.35pm on August, 19.

The man, who needed to be supported by a ventilator for two days, was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit and was sent home earlier this month.
Government health officials want to start rummaging through American sewage to monitor outbreaks of flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) this winter.

So-called wastewater surveillance was pioneered during the pandemic to track new variants and gave officials early warning of flare-ups.

Now, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has proposed using the technique to monitor other seasonal viruses.

Wastewater surveillance has 'demonstrated benefit as a robust, highly adaptable platform for community-level surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 transmission,' a report by the CDC said today.

So-called wastewater surveillance was pioneered during the pandemic to track new variants and gave officials early warning of flare-ups

Studying sewage samples was pivotal for finding certain variants of Covid as if even someone had no symptoms, the virus would still be present in their sewage water.

Now that testing for Covid has largely been scrapped, wastewater surveillance is one of the only ways they are tracking the spread of the virus in the US.

In a pilot study during last year's flu and RSV season, concentrations of the RSV and flu in wastewater samples from three major Wisconsin cities were collected and compared to the number of ER department visits related to the viruses in the area.

Flu and RSV are not universally tested for, so wastewater could be an important early warning sign.

Anybody infected with a virus sheds tiny fragments of its DNA in their poo.

Higher concentrations in sewage was linked to more ER department visits to do with flu and RSV.

Higher concentrations of the viruses in wastewater often preceded ER visits and indicated that a rise was on its way, the CDC said.

This could be used as an effective warning system for ER medical staff of a forthcoming outbreak in the area.

The report said that health officials may want to use sewage samples for the upcoming respiratory season to get a handle on where the virus is spreading more quickly.

Between August 2022 and March 2023, there were 6,271 influenza-associated ED visits and 1,518 RSV-associated ED visits in the cities of Green Bay, Madison and Milwaukee in Wisconsin.

The data showed that in those cities, RSV peaked in early November 2022, and flu peaked roughly one month later.

In April, California County even started testing its sewage for fentanyl to crack down on drug hotspots.

Marin County, north of San Francisco, is also testing sewage water for cocaine, nicotine and methamphetamines  with plans to add xylazine, or 'tranq', to the list.

And in January, the CDC started testing sewage from airplanes coming into the US from China, prompted by fears that China's catastrophic outbreak would spawn a new variant that would spread to the US.
More than half of women who suffered trauma while giving birth have been put off having more children.

A snapshot poll of 1,000 members of the Mumsnet website found 79 per cent of those surveyed had experienced birth trauma.

Women can develop birth trauma after experiences such as an unplanned Caesarean section, emergency treatment, or a difficult labour with a long and painful delivery.

Almost two-thirds of mothers who experienced birth trauma said they felt a 'lack of compassion' from healthcare professionals during labour, while 44 per cent said language had been used which implied they were 'a failure or to blame' for their experience.

Some 53 per cent said the experience had put them off having more babies.

Women can develop birth trauma after experiences such as an unplanned Caesarean section, emergency treatment, or a difficult labour with a long and painful delivery (Stock Image)

Almost two-thirds of mothers who experienced birth trauma said they felt a 'lack of compassion' from healthcare professionals during labour, while 44 per cent said language had been used which implied they were 'a failure or to blame' for their experience (Stock Image)

Almost two-thirds of those polled by Mumsnet did not believe healthcare workers did everything they could to prevent birth trauma.

Why ovulation tests DO help Ovulation tests used to work out the best time to have sex may indeed increase the chances of getting pregnant. Researchers reviewed seven studies involving 2,500 women. They concluded that the tests, which detect hormone levels in urine, 'probably' do improve the odds of pregnancy in women under 40 who have been trying to conceive for at least a year  from a 16 per cent chance to up to 28 per cent. But the team at Oxford University said the results should be treated with caution. Advertisement

Theo Clarke, MP for Stafford, who has spoken out about her own traumatic birth, in which she thought she was 'going to die' after suffering a third-degree tear and needing emergency surgery, has called for action.

The Conservative MP said: 'These survey results are deeply upsetting.

'They speak to my own experience of birth trauma and quite clearly to many, many other women's horrendous experiences too.

'The survey is clear that more compassion, education and better after-care for mothers who suffer birth trauma are desperately needed if we are to see an improvement in mums' physical wellbeing and mental health.'

Mumsnet chief executive Justine Roberts said: 'We hear daily on Mumsnet from women who have had deeply upsetting experiences of maternity care, and this latest research underlines that the majority of mothers experience birth trauma  whether physical or psychological.

'This trauma has long-lasting effects and it's clear that women are being failed at every stage of the maternity care process  with too little information provided beforehand, a lack of compassion from staff during birth, and substandard postnatal care for mothers' physical and mental health.'

Kim Thomas, chief executive of the Birth Trauma Association, added: 'A maternity system that puts women at the heart of care is not some kind of unfeasibly high goal  it is the bare minimum that women have the right to expect.'

It comes as a 'heartbreaking' report shows the rate of baby deaths in the UK has risen for the first time in seven years.

The rate of deaths had previously fallen year on year from 2013 to 2020.

What is a stillbirth? A stillbirth occurs when a baby is born after 24 weeks of pregnancy. If a baby dies before 24 weeks of pregnancy, it is known as a pregnancy loss. Not all stillbirths can be prevented, however, not smoking or drinking, as well as not sleeping on your back and attending all antenatal appointments can reduce the risk. What are the signs? Signs may include the baby not moving as much as normal. Pregnant women should contact their doctor immediately if they notice a difference to their baby's movement. What are the causes? Stillbirths do not always have an obvious cause but may occur due to complications with the placenta or a birth defect. They are also more likely to occur if women suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes or an infection that affects the baby, such as flu. Stillbirths are more likely to occur if women are having twins or multiple pregnancies, are overweight, smoke, are over 35 or have a pre-existing condition, such as epilepsy. What happens after a stillbirth? If a baby has died, women may wait for their labour to start naturally or they may be induced if their health is at risk. Bereavement support groups are available to parents who have suffered stillbirths. Some find it helpful to name their baby or take pictures with them. Source: NHS Choices Advertisement

But there were 2,473 stillbirths in 2021, compared to 2,292 the previous year, and 1,151 deaths of newborn babies in the first 28 days of life, up from 1,051.

Researchers who published the report, from the universities of Leicester and Oxford, said the rise occurred principally in babies dying in the womb before women went into labour.

That suggests the pandemic may have left women more reluctant to contact medical professionals, or unsure who to contact, if there was a reduction in their babies' movements.

But researchers are unsure of the cause (SUBS - pls keep), and will be monitoring the figures for 2022 closely to see if this is a wider trend rather than a consequence of healthcare disruptions during Covid.

The Government is currently not on track to meet its ambitions to reduce rates of stillbirth and neonatal deaths by 2025, according to baby charity Tommy's.

It comes amid ongoing issues with care in some hospital trusts, creating a postcode lottery for pregnant women.

Recurring problems seen in investigations have included failures to regularly monitor or chart the growth of babies in the womb, and inadequate responses when women report a change in the movements of their babies.

The new 'State of the Nation' report, from the MMBRACE-UK Collaboration of researchers, also highlights a higher risk of baby deaths for mothers from black and Asian backgrounds and those from economically deprived areas.

The cause of death remains unknown for one third of stillborn babies with a further third being due to problems with the placenta.

For babies who die soon after birth, the most common cause is inherited birth defects.

Elizabeth Draper, lead perinatal expert at MBRRACE-UK, said: 'In 2021 the perinatal mortality rate increased in the UK for the first time in seven years.

'It is important that the UK government, Royal Colleges, and Health Commissioners support rigorous reviews of all stillbirths and neonatal deaths to identify common themes that can improve clinical care and service provision, delivery, and organisation, reducing the need for future independent enquiries.'

Robert Wilson, head of the joint policy unit at Tommy's and the charity Sands, said: 'We keep hearing these heartbreaking statistics, but saving babies' lives and tackling inequalities in pregnancy and baby loss are still not the political priorities they deserve to be.'

A spokesman for the Department of Health and Social Care said: 'We are committed to making the NHS the safest place in the world to give birth for all women, regardless of ethnicity or economic status.

'To reduce disparities for women and babies from ethnic minorities and those living in the most deprived areas, NHS England has published guidance for local maternity systems, supported by 6.8 million.'
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has launched a sensational attack on the new Covid booster vaccine and urged Floridians under 65 not to take it.

The Republican Presidential hopeful claimed the shot had 'not been proven to be safe or effective' and accused the CDC of using 'healthy Floridians as guinea pigs'.

Despite the strong rhetoric, Florida's move to restrict the vaccines for healthy young and middle-aged people is not unprecedented, with countries like the UK also doing similar with their fall booster campaigns.

DeSantis attracted fans during the pandemic for his hardline stance against Covid lockdowns and mandates but has been criticized more recently for promoting faulty vaccine data.

After holding a vaccine panel on Wednesday, DeSantis said: 'I will not stand by and let the FDA and CDC use healthy Floridians as guinea pigs for new booster shots that have not been proven to be safe or effective.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis launched a sensational attack on the new Covid booster vaccines

'Once again, Florida is the first state in the nation to stand up and provide guidance based on truth, not Washington edicts.'

The comments put DeSantis firmly to the right of rival and Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump, who spearheaded the development of the mRNA Covid vaccines.

Florida's guidance also comes at a time when the state has the highest number of hospitalizations in the country. As of Monday, 43 out of Florida's 67 counties reported moderate levels of weekly new hospital admissions, according to CDC data. Moderate levels are between 10 and 19.9 new hospital admissions per 100,000.

An estimated 96 percent of Americans now have antibodies against Covid, through previous infection or vaccination, which has made the disease mild for most people.

The low risk of severe disease has weakened the case for vaccinating young people, but experts say they remain vital for the elderly or chronically ill.

Dr Paul Offit, one of the FDA's vaccine advisors, previously told DailyMail.com that a blanket vaccination strategy is low risk, low reward'.

The vaccines are generally safe but provide only a modest reduction in cases, hospital admissions and deaths.

The UK has stopped recommending the boosters for middle-aged and young Britons, but the taxpayer paid the shots there, which may have played into that decision.

Leading Florida's vaccine discussion Wednesday was Dr Joseph Ladapo, the state's vaccine-skeptic surgeon general.

Dr Lapado - who was handpicked by Gov DeSantis in 2021 - also promoted the false claim there was 'not a drop of clinical trial data' supporting the new Covid vaccine.

He said following the round-table: 'Once again, the federal government is failing Americans by refusing to be honest about the risks and not providing sufficient clinical evidence when it comes to these COVID-19 mRNA shots, especially with how widespread immunity is now.

'In Florida, we will always use common sense and protect the rights and liberties of Floridians, including the right to accurate information.'

Dr Ladapo has repeatedly endorsed claims the Covid vaccines are caused widespread heart problems in young people, a link that has been repeatedly disproven by large studies.

CDC director Dr Mandy Cohen defended the new boosters in a statement Wednesday. 'Vaccination against COVID-19 remains the safest protection for avoiding hospitalizations, long-term health challenges, and death,' she said.

'As we head into the fall and winter seasons, it is important that Americans get the updated COVID-19 vaccine. They are proven safe; they are effective, and they have been thoroughly and independently reviewed by the FDA and CDC.'

'Public health experts are in broad agreement about these facts, and efforts to undercut vaccine uptake are unfounded and dangerous.'

The above graph shows cardiac arrest fatalities among under-34s for every year since 2000. This is from the CDC Wonder database. Data for 2021 and 2022 is provisional

The mRNA shots have been linked to a very small risk of myocarditis in young people, affecting about one in 30,000 under-40s after their second jab.

But cases are normally mild and resolve on their own without the need for any medical intervention.

A Covid infection is also more likely to trigger myocarditis than the vaccines, studies indicate, making the issue even more nuanced.

And data from the DC shows cardiac deaths among Americans under the age of 34 are similar to pre-pandemic levels.

The updated Covid shots, approved just this week by the FDA and CDC, have been deemed safe for everyone aged six months and older and have been recommended for everyone in that age range.

They have been designed to target newer versions of the Omicron variant and are made by Pfizer and Moderna.
THE NIRVANA EXPRESS

by Mick Brown (Hurst Publishers 25, 400pp)

It's all The Beatles' fault. Anyone who has endured someone's hazy account of 'finding' themselves in India can blame John, Paul, George and Ringo.

In the summer of 1967, when the band studied meditation under Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in the foothills of the Himalayas, they made spiritual tourism profoundly groovy. But, as Brown explains in The Nirvana Express, the Fab Four were just the latest in a long line of Western figures to fall under the spell of holy men from the East.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, these schools of thought, often loosely connected to Hinduism and Buddhism, enthralled Europeans and Americans seeking a quiet alternative to the more shouty dictates of Christian fundamentalists and the bling of Catholicism. George Harrison was just one of many seduced by the idea that 'each soul is potentially divine'.

In the summer of 1967, when the band studied meditation under Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in the foothills of the Himalayas, they made spiritual tourism profoundly groovy

In a lively narrative, delivered with wit and warmth, Brown shows how Eastern mysticism went from being suspect to venerable, and back again to a subject of scepticism. Along the way, he delivers an outrageous cast of characters  film stars, novelists, heiresses and heretics  and shows how soothing swamis and dodgy charlatans left their mark on Western ways.

It all began with the Victorian love of learning. In 1879, Sir Edwin Arnold published The Light of Asia, a poetic imagining of the life of the Buddha that sparked curiosity in some colonialists out East and adventurous minds at home.

By the early 20th century, Indian philosophy had become fashionable. Sir Edwin Lutyens, the most celebrated architect of the Edwardian era, was not a fan. His wife, Emily, embraced theosophy  which combined world religions in an Avengers Assemble manner  and became an ardent admirer of Krishna, the sweet-natured 16-year-old son of an Indian clerk who had been randomly chosen as its unlikely Messiah.

While Lady Emily devoted herself to the boy, poor Edwin spent periods working in India, where he saw little beauty beneath the poverty.

Emily wrote to him to say he was no longer welcome in her bedroom and, subsequently, made less than spiritual overtures to Krishna. These in turn were rebuffed.

Others were less easily swayed. The infamous occultist Aleister Crowley  dubbed 'the wickedest man in the world'  found Eastern spiritualism far too passive. But gurus continued to attach themselves to celebrities and socialites to gain traction and funds. In the 1930s, Meher Baba, a spiritual master with an eye on Hollywood, sought, but failed, to win the patronage of Greta Garbo.

As Brown notes, Indian spirituality went mainstream in the 1960s when The Beatles became fans. The saga of the most famous band in the world and the Maharishi  known as the 'giggling guru' due to his impish humour  is a tale of curiosity and disappointment.

In 1967, the band went to the Hilton Hotel on Park Lane to hear the guru speak (George's wife, Pattie Boyd, recalled that 'they seemed to do everything as a group; if one of them did something they would all want to do it'). The following day, the four musicians decamped to a teacher training college in Bangor, North Wales, where the Maharishi was teaching Transcendental Meditation. The retreat was cut short, however, when the band learned of the death of their beloved manager Brian Epstein.

In a lively narrative, delivered with wit and warmth, Brown shows how Eastern mysticism went from being suspect to venerable, and back again to a subject of scepticism

The Beatles later studied under the guru in India, at an ashram overlooking the Ganges. Mia Farrow, raw from her separation with Frank Sinatra, joined them along with her sister Prudence (Lennon wrote 'Dear Prudence' in her honour).

A gifted salesman, the Maharishi swiftly labelled himself 'The Beatles' spiritual teacher'.

Less famous disciples, writes Brown, were obliged to bring 'six fresh flowers, two pieces of fruit, a clean white handkerchief and a financial donation.'

It didn't take long for cracks to appear.

Ringo disliked the food and headed home early. The rest of the band followed suit when rumours circulated that the Maharishi had made passes at Mia Farrow.

'We thought there was more to him than there was,' noted Paul McCartney. Lennon was more candid, recalling how stunned The Beatles had been to learn of Epstein's death and the Maharishi's response when they told him Epstein had died. 'And he was sort of saying, 'Oh forget it, be happy'  f***in' idiot.'

Theres a touch of Yes Minister to some gurus

Only George kept the faith, retaining a lifelong interest in Eastern religions. But The Beatles' Indian sojourn created some incredible music: more than half of the White Album was written at the ashram.

Perhaps the most complex of the Indian godmen was the Bhagwan Rajneesh, suggests Brown. The Gordon Gekko of the swami scene, Rajneesh looked both to the heavens and the bottom line, building an empire in the 1970s and 1980s that included a town in Oregon  which he renamed Rajneeshpuram  and the world's largest collection of Rolls-Royces. In 1976, the actor Terence Stamp arrived at Rajneesh's Indian base in Pune and immediately recognised a fellow performer, likening him to Orson Welles.

Stamp became ensconced in the ashram: 'I had a new name, I was wearing orange, I was studying tantric sex. It wasn't uninteresting!'

Rajneesh's American enterprise, which drew thousands of visitors, crumbled in the mid-1980s, following reports of violent therapy sessions, sex scandals and a litany of crimes: followers were convicted of bio-terror attacks, arson and attempted murder. Their leader was arrested, fined and deported back to India.

Brown shows how the gurus' woolly wisdom was both their strength and weakness (there's a touch of Yes Minister to some of their opaque declarations). Yet the influence of these mystics endures today. 'Yoga classes are now held in church halls,' Brown observes. 'Meditation has been stripped of its spiritual connotations and rebranded as 'mindfulness'.'

In his previous book, Tearing Down The Wall Of Sound: The Rise And Fall Of Phil Spector, Brown revealed how a musical icon became a murderer. There are more fallen idols here.

A pattern forms of a pure creed curdled by greed, and the instability of both gurus and believers. Brown illustrates the subjective reality of spiritual highs with an amusing story about the American Beat poet Allen Ginsberg.

In 1948, Ginsberg, whose mystical journey took in Buddhism, mescaline and LSD, claimed to have had a visitation from God while reading a William Blake poem in his New York apartment.

'Overcome by an urge to share the good news,' writes Brown, 'Ginsberg crawled out of the window onto the fire-escape and tapped on the window of the neighbouring apartment, which was occupied by two girls. The window opened: 'I've seen God!' Ginsberg screamed excitedly.

'The window slammed shut. 'Oh,' Ginsberg later lamented, 'what tales I could have told them if they'd let me in!' '
The European Commission has launched an investigation into the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) sector in the wake of concerns from EU car makers that they are gaining an unfair 'competitive edge' thanks to their government-subsidised cheaper prices.

A raft of new Chinese brands have entered the European car market in recent months and their cut-price costs mean their battery cars are often less expensive than equivalents from brands in the bloc.

The Commission will have up to 13 months to assess whether to impose tariffs above the standard 10 per cent EU rate for cars in what could become the highest profile case against China since an EU probe into solar panels narrowly avoided a trade war a decade ago.

Consumers could suffer, though, as increased tariffs will ultimately push the price of the most affordable EVs on the market higher.

The probe was announced in a speech on Wednesday by European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen (pictured) amid growing import numbers

The probe was announced in a speech on Wednesday by European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen amid growing import numbers.

She said heavily-subsidised Chinese EVs are distorting the car market and threatening the livelihood of European car makers.

'Global markets are now flooded with cheaper electric cars. And their price is kept artificially low by huge state subsidies,' she stated during her annual address to the bloc's parliament.

Chinese EV makers, from market-leaders like BYD to smaller rivals Xpeng and Nio, are stepping up efforts to expand overseas as competition intensifies at home and domestic growth eases.

China's auto exports surged 31 per cent in August, the most recent data from the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA) showed.

Figures show that imports from Chinese car makers to Western Europe doubled to more than 200,000 units last year.

The European Commission said China's market share of total EVs sold in Europe has risen to 8 per cent and could reach 15 per cent in 2025, noting prices are typically 20 per cent below EU-made models.

A Nio ET5 electric vehicle is displayed at the Chinese EV maker's showroom in Shanghai, China

The anti-subsidy investigation covers all battery-powered cars from China, such as SAIC's MG Motor and Geely's Volvo.

But it also includes non-Chinese-owned brands that are producing EVs there, which includes Tesla, Renault, BMW and Lotus.

While the probe has - unusually - been brought by the European Commission itself, rather than in response to an industry complaint, there have been growing concerns from states including France, where domestic car makers believe they are facing competition that's unfair.

It has expressed concerns that Europe will fall behind during the green transition if it is not more assertive when confronted with China's alleged protectionism.

The growing popularity of Chinese EVs has already prompted some European car makers to take action, with Renault announcing in July that it aimed to slash production costs for its electric models by 40 per cent to remain competitive.

The German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) has been less supportive of the investigation, saying the EU must take into account a possible backlash from China and focus on creating the conditions for European players to succeed - from lowering electricity prices to reducing bureaucratic hurdles.

Germany's car industry relies on China for a large proportion of its sales revenue and has long advocated keeping trade doors open.

Many European car brands also use Chinese-produced batteries in their EVs while it increases its own manufacturing volumes with emerging gigafactories.

BYD electric cars waiting to be loaded onto container ships at the terminal of Taicang Port at Suzhou Port, in China's eastern Jiangsu Province

The UK's automotive trade body, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, is also clearly hesitant about the probe.

'We will monitor the situation and carefully assess the potential for any impact on the UK,' says Mike Hawes, chief executive.

'However, the industry is committed to free and fair global trade and has been successful on that basis.

'The immediate priority is our own competitiveness  both manufacturing and market  and the development and implementation of a strategy to enhance the UK offering.'

If the investigation rules Chinese brands have garnered an unfair advantage, World Trade Organisation rules allow for the imposition of tariffs that will likely make Chinese cars much more expensive that they are today.

Today, the cheapest EV on sale in Britain is the Chinese MG4, which starts from 26,995. That's 10,000 less than the cheapest Renault Megane E-Tech (36,995) and Volkswagen ID.3 (37,115) equivalents.

The cheapest EV on sale in Britain today is the Chinese MG4 (pictured). It currently costs from 26,995 - a price that would undoubtedly increase if MG Motor faced increased tariffs following the EU probe

How does the MG4 compare to European rivals? It is 10,000 less expensive than the Renault Megane E-Tech (left) and Volkswagen's recently updated ID.3 (right)

During her speech, von der Leyen also stressed the importance of electric vehicles to the EU's ambitious environmental objectives.

'Europe is open to competition. Not for a race to the bottom,' she said, noting the EU did not want to repeat the experience of its solar panel industry, which was decimated by cheaper Chinese imports.

'This is the start of a long journey,' said analyst Simone Tagliapietra of think tank Bruegel. 'It could ultimately work, but this must go in parallel with an active industrial policy to make sure EU industry quickly develops its competitiveness.'

China responded today, saying the probe into Beijing's subsidies for electric cars would have a negative impact on its trade relations with the bloc.

China 'believes that the EU's proposed investigative measures are to protect its own industry in the name of 'fair competition'... and will have a negative impact on China-EU economic and trade relations', a commerce ministry statement said.

It said the investigation is 'naked protectionist behaviour that will seriously disrupt and distort the global automotive industry supply chain, including the EU'.
M&C Saatchi swung to a first-half loss following a significant decline in spending by the ad group's technology clients in the UK and US.

The advertising agency posted a 5.1million statutory pre-tax loss for the six months ending June, compared to a 305,000 profit in the same period last year.

Net revenue fell by 7 per cent to 120.4million as a weaker economic environment hit businesses with greater exposure to the technology sector or whose clients had more discretion over expenditure.

Results: M&C Saatchi posted a 5.1million statutory pre-tax loss for the six months ending June, compared to a 305,000 profit in the same period last year

This particularly impacted Saatchi's media specialism, which saw turnover plunge by almost a third despite winning new contracts with the likes of Sega, Amazon and ticket exchange marketplace TickPick.

At the same time, net sales dropped by 16 per cent to 50.1million in the company's advertising division due to the volume of new business wins moderating and weaker results in countries such as China and Germany.

Because of the subdued market backdrop, the group is adopting a more cautious outlook for the second half of the year.

While it has noted 'improving momentum' since the beginning of July, it expects a modest single-digit fall in net revenue over the latter six months of 2023.

Zillah Byng-Thorne, executive chair of M&C Saatchi, said: 'The second half of the year is about growth, execution, and efficiency.

'Whilst some economic headwinds are likely to continue, we are focused on what we can control: continued connectivity of our business, elevating our highest-margin businesses in resilient segments, underpinned by tight cost management.'

Saatchi's interim results are set to be the last under the leadership of chief executive Moray MacLennan, who is due to step down at the end of this month.

MacLennan co-founded the company in 1995 after brothers Maurice and Charles Saatchi were ousted in a boardroom coup from another firm they had co-founded, Saatchi & Saatchi.

His promotion to the top role came on the heels of an accounting scandal, where the London-based business admitted to overstating profits by some 14million.

Troubles worsened during his first year in charge as the Covid-19 pandemic caused a worldwide downturn for the advertising industry.

But trading recovered very strongly after lockdown restrictions were loosened, and the group was able to fight off takeover bids by Next Fifteen Communications and Vin Murria's Advanced AdvT investment vehicle.

Well-known for its longstanding association with the Conservative Party, Saatchi's clients comprise some of the most prominent corporate names, including Diageo, Coca-Cola, Adidas, and Google.

M&C Saatchi shares were 1.5 per cent, or 2p, down at 128p on late Thursday afternoon and have dropped by around 17 per cent since the beginning of the year.
He said business was slow and that 'nobody came'

An Aussie teenager who opened a cafe straight out of high school has shared how 'nobody came' to his coffee shop until he started posting videos on TikTok.

In July, Tom Oswald, 18, opened his cafe 'Homeboy' in Hahndorf, about 25 minutes from Adelaide, and has been documenting its growth ever since.

Mr Oswald posted a series of videos of himself diligently setting up the cafe each day, only to become increasingly disheartened at the lack of customers.

In one of his first videos, the teenager admitted that 'nobody came' to the cafe on the first few days besides family members and a few mates.

'The cafe can get a little bit quiet at times, but it is something I fully expect and do not get down about it,' he told news.com.au.

'Quiet days give me time to reflect and research, and busy days teach me the importance of efficiency.'

Mr Oswald's candid videos about his customer woes quickly went viral on TikTok, with thousands of people urging him to keep going despite the slow start.

Tom Oswald, 18, opened his cafe 'Homeboy' in Hahndorf, about 25 minutes from Adelaide , in July and has been documenting its growth on social media

Mr Oswald told his viewers 'nobody came' to the coffee shop during his first weeks of business other than his family and a few friends

Dozens promised to visit the coffee shop, while others suggested ways of attracting more customers - such as a student discount and longer opening hours.

'You are so inspiring, I'm 17 and I wanna open a cafe. Keep going, man,' one wrote.

'I've never been so invested in a cafe on the other side of the country,' another said.

With his newfound TikTok fame, business finally started to pick up.

'TikTok customers are keeping the dream alive,' he told his viewers on day seven.

A few weeks later, Mr Oswald celebrated his first reservation and recorded himself proudly placing a homemade 'reserved' sign on a table.

The teenager told his followers he had been inspired to start his own business after working in a coffee shop during high school.

In August, the teenager celebrated the coffee shop's first reservation and recorded himself placing a handmade 'reserved' sign on one of the tables (pictured)

Mr Oswald opened his cafe in a venue that was already fitted out with everything he needed

'I learnt a bunch of skills that I could take with me anywhere,' he said.

'I wasn't very good at making coffee but snuck myself on the machine as much as I could to try and get better.'

He was then presented with the opportunity to open a cafe in a venue that was already fitted out with everything he needed.

Mr Oswald said he had visited dozens of coffee shops for market research and asked the advice of other business owners.

The teenager encouraged his followers that 'when it's scary to jump, jump.'

'I wasn't sure if I could run a coffee shop by myself but wanted to give myself the challenge,' he said.
A stunning map has unveiled that Native Title, a legal recognition of Aboriginal rights over an area, covers nearly half of Australia's landmass.

Native title holders can get compensation for things the government has done to stop them from exercising their rights, such as building a bridge or a road.

The map, prepared by the National Native Title Tribunal, shows some 50 per cent of Australia is under Native Title, with the sections divided by dark and light green to distinguish between 'exclusive' and 'non-exclusive' zones.

A further 12 per cent of land is being assessed for Native Title, with these areas coded in blue patches or stripes.

It's important to note that Native Title can only be claimed for Crown land and is not applicable to privately held properties.

When a Native Title determination specifies 'exclusive' rights, it means the Indigenous group has exclusive ownership and control over the area in question, excluding all others, including government authorities and non-Indigenous individuals or entities.

Non-exclusive Native Title in Australia grants Indigenous groups shared rights and interests in land without exclusive control.

It can grant Native Title holders the right to local cultural practices, such as the right to live in the area, hunt, fish, gather food or teach law and custom on country.

A stunning map has revealed Native Title extends over half of Australia with more claims currently being assessed in other parts of the country

To claim Native Title, it is necessary to show an enduring connection to the land through pre-European settlement tribal laws and customs. Claims are registered with the National Native Title Tribunal and determined in courts, including the Federal or High Court and state Supreme Courts.

On Tuesday, Senator Pauline Hanson pushed for a royal commission into Native Title, but her bid was soundly voted down, with only five other Senators supporting the motion.

'Under current law, there is an infinite time period during which claims can be initiated, she explained. 'That means groups could still be initiating claims in 100 years.'

She said by removing federal funding from respondents but continuing to provide money to those claiming Native Title the Albanese government had created a very unequal playing field.

'There are many thousands of these Native Title and other land claims all over Australia,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

'I suspect that many people living in those areas yet to be determined don't even realise that they are at risk of having their communities come under Native Title.

'Native Title claimants get all their legal costs fully funded by the Australian Government but not the organisations which must respond to these claims, because Labor has abolished the Native Title Respondent Funding Scheme.

'So if your community comes under a Native Title claim, the Government will be funding it with your taxes.'

She said because Native Title claimants must reach a more strict standard of eligibility than those who claim Indigenous heritage, two-thirds of Australia could potentially be controlled by less than two per cent of the population.

'Native Title holders directly receive income in the form of mining royalties and other uses of land under their control.

'These are just more examples  along with the Voice to Parliament  of the Albanese Labor government treating Australians unequally based on race.

'From the beginning of my political career, I have been calling out this unequal treatment based on race. I will always fight for equality for all Australians.'

On Tuesday Senator Hanson pushed for a royal commission into Native Title but her bid was soundly voted down with only five other Senators supporting the motion

It emerged last week that a Native Title claim had been made on the south east Queensland city of Redland.

This is the first time a majorly urban area has been subject to such a claim.

The claim could see Native Title rights conferred on approximately 3,500 council-owned or managed properties in the Redlands coastal area southeast of Brisbane, which is home to 165,000 people.

The Federal Court is now considering the claim, which was made in 2017 by the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation.

Redland City Council Mayor Karen Williams says it will determine what areas are subject to being claimed under Native Title.

'Some of those areas we will defend vigorously because they are important, a very important part, such as the coastal points in particular and cemeteries where, might I add, a lot of forebears and pioneers are buried.'

Cr Williams said the claim could deprive locals and visitors of access to popular scenic and recreational spots, which could be turned over for exclusive use by the claimants.

'We are a coastal city so we have Wellington Point, Victoria Point, Cleveland Point, where people will go for Sunday afternoon drive or they go fishing,' she said.

Despite the Native Title claimants having access to millions in federal funding to make their claims, the council will have to rely entirely on its own resources as it takes the case to the Federal Court.

'It does feel a little bit like we are on our own,' Cr Williams said.

'Obviously, there are costs the ratepayer has to absorb.

'We have island communities and marine parks and ferries and an ageing population and not a very big commercial base so we feel every cent we have to spend.'

Native Title differs from Land Rights, which only exist under laws in NSW and the NT.

Land rights mean a local Land Council can claim freehold ownership of any unused or misused Crown land as compensation for historical dispossession.

These claims are assessed by government departments.

Both land rights and Native Title can coexist on a piece of land, and they may even bring traditional owners into conflict.

Traditional owners have won land right freehold ownership of 50 per cent of the Northern Territory, including 85 per cent of its coastline.

There have been over 3,000 successful land rights claims in NSW, but almost 40,000 are yet to be assessed.
People are shocked after learning that oxygen masks on aeroplanes are not connected to an air tank.

A TikTok by @JoeSpinsTheGlobe explained how the oxygen supplied to these masks does not come from an oxygen tank.

Joe goes on to explain that the device used to supply oxygen to the masks found on commercial aircrafts is in fact called an oxygen generator.

He says that the reason this type of device is because of its ability to 'pack a lot of oxygen in a tiny space because the oxygen is stored as a solid in the form of sodium chlorate'.

Delving into how oxygen is released from the generator for people to be able to breathe, Joe says: 'When you pull the mask down, a firing pin goes off and ignites the primer, which heats up to over 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit'.

A TikTok by @JoeSpinsTheGlobe explained how the oxygen supplied to these masks does not come from an oxygen tank. Joe goes on to explain that the device used to supply oxygen to the masks found on commercial aircrafts is in fact called an oxygen generator

He continues: 'Under this extreme heat, sodium chlorate decomposes into mostly oxygen gas and table salt. The oxygen passes through a filter and down the tubing to your mask, where you breathe it in'.

The device, also known as an oxygen candle due to the manner in which it burns, has left TikTok users in disbelief.

One user said: 'How have I never even thought about where the oxygen would come from. I just accepted it would be there and work??'.

Another offered useful advice from the perspective of cabin crew, sharing: 'As a flight attendant, we are taught it is really important to let passengers know that they need to PULL DOWN on the mask to start the flow of oxygen'.

A third thanked Joe for sharing the handy tip, commenting: 'Did not know this. My 11yr old nephew & I learned something new today. Thank you.'

The important advice on how to use oxygen masks comes after the devices failed on a Rossiya Airlines plane during a 25,000ft plunge in February.

An 'ancient' Boeing-737-800 was forced to make an emergency landing in Krasnoyarsk, Siberia as the ten-minute descent caused extreme cabin depressurisation.

Five people needed medical treatment as a result of the sharp drop in pressure on the Rossiya Airlines plane.
A popular Borough Market greengrocer was banned from selling its famed chocolate-covered strawberries because they 'did not count as fruit or veg'.

The stall, named Turnips, has been a mainstay at the famed tourist attraction for more than 30 years with fans travelling from as far as Australia to try its 7.50 pots of large strawberries covered in thick gooey chocolate sauce.

It has even branched out to open its own restaurant with chef Tomas Lidakevicius, as well as publishing a cookbook.

However, a staff member claimed in a dramatic TikTok video that Borough Market had banned its strawberries because they were not 'fruit, veg or related produce'.

Its mushroom risotto was also banned, with the worker telling devastated customers that he had been told the dish had to be cooked in a separate area for hot food.

The bizarre decision led to outrage on social media, with the video announcing the ban racking up more than a million views.

Turnips greengrocers in Borough Market has been a mainstay for over 30 years with its fine produce

But it is perhaps best-known for its 7.50 pots of wild strawberries covered in thick gooey chocolate sauce

Last week, Turnips posted a video encouraging customers to complain about the strawberries being taken off their menu.

The staff member said: 'If you're outraged that we're closed today and you can't get your beautiful chocolate-covered strawberries, make a complaint to the Borough Market administration.

'They're claiming that our strawberries do not count as fruit, veg and related produce, and on that basis they have closed the front of our shop.

'We are allowed to trade fruit, veg and related produce out of anywhere in our shop but they've shut down the whole front of our operation and not let us trade today on the basis that our chocolate-covered strawberries do not count as fruit, veg and related produce

'So if you find that outrageous, make a complaint, call in and let them know.'

The stall is beloved by locals and has also built-up a cult following online.

One woman went on a 9,000-mile trip from Australia to try the strawberries after a video of them being prepared went viral on TikTok.

The stall then uploaded a video which racked up more than 400,000 views, and 57,000 likes, which read: 'POV: You saw the TikTok so you came from Australia for the strawbs.

'It was worth the trip apparently.'

In the clip, the woman appeared delighted with her strawberries.

She said: 'Yeah they aren't as cheap as you would buy from the supermarket. But it's the experience isn't it. You will not be disappointed.'

TikTok users reacted with dismay at the decision to ban the strawberries

The wave of support following the ban clearly had an impact, with the same staff member announcing on TikTok that it had been overturned after a few days.

After a five-day hiatus, the delighted staff member said: 'We're back in business, we won! We're back in business guys due to popular demand, our chocolate-covered strawberries are open again.

'They were disputing our rights to sell our chocolate-covered strawberries but we won, we freed the strawberry.'

Merchants have traded at Borough Market for more than 1,000 years. In recent years, it has become a foodie's paradise, with 'speciality foods' ranging from cheeses and bread to meat and fresh fruit and vegetables.

Tourists are known to seek out the market for its quirky range of street food and it has built a reputation as one of the capital's 'must-see' sites.

A Borough Market spokesman declined to comment when contacted by MailOnline but refuted the claims from the greengrocer.

The market is one of London's most famous tourist attractions and attracts millions of customers every year.

It also has its own set of bylaws passed in Parliament - which date back to before the Victorian era - which allows it to regulate the businesses within.
A doctor has claimed that he is paid the same hourly rate as staff at Wetherspoons.

Dr Dev Gakhar shared the hourly rate he earns as a newly-qualified doctor while working for the NHS, with a wage slip showing he is paid 14.08 an hour.

However, Dr Gakhar didn't mention that this is the bare minimum for first year doctors - or that he is set to get a wage rise of up to 10.3 per cent in the near future after the UK Government agreed to give junior doctors a boost in pay.

The figure mentioned is also basic pay and doesn't reflect how junior doctors can boost their salary by opting to work overtime - or how their hourly rate is increased for working nights and weekends.

In fact, an analysis from FullFact last year found that junior doctors' earn closer to 20-30-an-hour.

The figure on Wetherspoons is also inaccurate, with the pub chain's website showing that it's bar workers earn 10.52-an-hour on average.

Dr Gakhar made the claim while responding to someone on TikTok who said they were offered '14 per hour working at Wetherspoons'.

He said that, although he may be newly qualified, 'no rank of doctor should have 14 per hour as their starting salary in this day and age'.

Dr Dev Gakhar shared the hourly rate he earns as a newly-qualified doctor while working for the NHS , which may come as a surprise to many. Responding to a comment on TikTok by an individual who claimed they 'got offered 14 per hour working at Wetherspoons', Dr Gakhar replies by saying that he 'worked the bar during med school as a part-time job to get by and I was paid 16 an hour'

But in a follow-up video breaking down the wageslip in more detail, Dr Gakhar admitted: 'In terms of gross pay we have my basic pay - so I worked 168 hours this month and was paid a rate of 14.08 an hour, which works out at about 2,300.

'This 14 an hour, after the eight months of junior doctors strikes, has now gone up to about 15.50 which will be reflected in my upcoming paycheque.'

Junior doctors used to earn 29,384 in the first year of foundation training, which they enter after completing their medical degree, which worked out at 14.13 per hour.

READ MORE: More NHS strike misery on the way: Both junior doctors and consultants will hold four days of united industrial action from September Advertisement

But from their October payslip, annual basic pay for first year junior doctors will rise to 32,300  around 15.50 an hour, using the same metric. And their pay rise will be backdated to April.

The 14 figure also doesn't reflect how much junior medics actually make.

They can boost their salary by opting to work overtime and their hourly rate is increased for working nights and weekends.

After around a decade as a junior doctor  during which their pay rises up to 63,000  medics can become consultants, who earn up to 126,000 basic pay for a 40-hour week.

At this point, they can also opt to work extra hours and take on management or education responsibilities to further boost their pay.

An analysis from FullFact last year found that junior doctors' pay is closer to 20-30-an-hour.

Their weekend work can also see them earn a rate between 3% to 10% of their base pay.

Wetherspoons bar staff, on the other hand, earn around 10.52-an-hour. They can earn up to 19% of their base pay, but this is usually only delivered quarterly.

Concerned by the potentially low wage rates they could receive as a doctor, one user commented: 'Do you think there will be any positive change in the near future? I want to be a doctor but Im worried about salary and work life'.

Dr Gakhar replied: 'It's working. Ninety-eight per cent of doctors just voted to strike. We increased our pay by 9 per cent on average this year and we are striking for restoration'.

Another user said: 'I am [an] admin supervisor and earn 15 an hour. I didn't realise how little [doctors] got paid.

But others have pointed out that Dr Gakhar is a junior doctor. One commenter said: 'Can't take criticism. He deletes all comments. You're not a qualified doctor. You're a trainee. The same as trainee solicitors.'

And on its own website, Wetherspoons says that bar staff are paid an average of 10.52 an hour - much less than the 14 an hour Dr Gakhar is paid on the NHS.

The video comes as junior doctors and consultants prepare for four days of crippling joint strike action, starting next week.

British Medical Association (BMA) bosses announced the coordinated walkout will take place in England over separate days in both September and October.

It represents a huge escalation in the long-running dispute between the union and ministers over NHS pay and the first time both consultants and junior doctors will strike together - a first in health service history.

Consultants in England will be striking on September 19 and 20, with junior doctors then joining the strike on September 20.

Junior doctors will then continue the full walkout on September 21 and 22.

Both consultants and junior doctors will then return to the picket lines together from October 2 to 5.

The announcement came after junior doctors renewed their mandate for industrial action for another six months.

In the 16 days medics have taken to the picket lines, cover for absent staff and making up lost appointments has seen the health service's bills spiral. Junior doctors, seeking a salary hike of 35 per cent, today began their fifth round of strike action this morning in the ongoing dispute, walking out for four days

The British Medical Association (BMA) welcomed a pay offer from the Scottish government last month and is balloting its members on the package north of the border. But Dr Robert Laurenson, co-chair of the BMA's junior doctors committee, today sparked fury by signalling he would not agree the same deal with the 'ideological' Tories in Westminster

More than 700,000 NHS appointments have been cancelled since strikes began seven months ago. In the latest five-day walkout by junior doctors, more than 100,000 were called off

Just over 71 per cent of eligible BMA members voted with 43,440 (98 per cent) voting to continue the industrial action.

Union officials said the result should send be a warning Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, that he has 'nowhere to hide'.

Last month, striking junior doctors were accused of running a 'politically-motivated' campaign aimed at bringing down the Government.

The British Medical Association (BMA) welcomed a pay offer from the Scottish government last month and is balloting its members on the package north of the border.

But Dr Robert Laurenson, co-chair of the BMA's junior doctors committee, sparked fury by signalling he would not agree the same deal with the 'ideological' Tories in Westminster.

A senior health boss said in August that the 16 days of action so far this year has cost the NHS 1billion. Cover for absent staff and making up for lost appointments has seen the health service's bills spiral.

Health secretary Steve Barclay accused the union of being 'reckless' for pressing on with industrial and warned the strikes 'serve only to harm patients'.
Jason Rantz is host of the Jason Rantz Show on KTTH Radio Seattle and author of 'What's Killing America: Inside the Radical Left's Tragic Destruction of Our Cities'

What's the state of America's crippling drug epidemic?

Look no further than the Emerald City, known for the Space Needle, hip coffee shops and, of course, meth and fentanyl killing historic numbers of locals.

If you dare ride public transit in Seattle, you're nearly guaranteed to be exposed to these vile, soul-crushing poisons.

In 2022, there were nearly 1,900 reports of drug use in the bus system, 52 transit operators exposed to drug smoke and 16 workers' comp claims for exposure.

'I don't want to be put in a predicament where I'm around drugs every day on my job,' bus driver Stevon Williams, told a local news station. He thinks breathing in fentanyl smoke made him sick.

So, after relentless pressure from the local transit worker's union, King County Metro and Pacific Northwest transit agencies finally coughed up the funds for a University of Washington (UW) study of just how toxic it is in Stevon's workplace.

Researchers reviewing air and surface samples from 11 buses and 19 train cars during evening routes found that 100 percent of the air specimens and 98 percent of surfaces were contaminated with meth. Twenty-five percent of the air samples and 46 percent of the surfaces showed traces of fentanyl.

What came next was painfully predictable, especially in the insufferably blue, Pacific Northwest.

Hardworking bus and train operators, tax-paying commuters and school-going children were told not to worry. A little meth or fentanyl won't kill you.

In 2022, there were nearly 1,900 reports of drug use in the bus system, 52 transit operators exposed to drug smoke and 16 workers' comp claims for exposure. (Above) Surveillance footage of woman smoking suspected illegal substance on King County Metro bus

'I don't want to be put in a predicament where I'm around drugs every day on my job,' bus driver Stevon Williams (above), told a local news station. He thinks breathing in fentanyl smoke made him sick.

'At the levels seen in this study, there is no evidence of acute medical conditions resulting from passive exposure to fentanyl or methamphetamine (such as from touching contaminated surfaces or inhaling secondhand smoke),' read the UW press release.

Really?

At the UW campus, cigarette and e-cig smokers are considered so dangerous that they're relegated to small, designated spots outdoors. But when it comes to secondhand meth and fentanyl smoke, you're perfectly safe on a crowded, poorly ventilated light-rail train?

In truth, these researchers don't know how dangerous it is to work on or ride public transit. The final report notes that the study did not establish the '[l]ong-term health effects related to daily secondhand exposure to these substances.'

As a Seattle resident, I can't say I'm surprised.

Frankly, drug use has become so common here that folks rarely seem to bat an eye when homeless addicts are smoking or shooting up in public, even in close quarters with women and kids.

Meanwhile, Seattle is the only city in the state where it's legal to use hard drugs in public. Far-left councilmember Teresa Mosqueda, best known for defending a man who threatened to murder cops, voted down a drug criminalization bill.

Citing the UW study, she told us to stop whining about the drug crisis because, 'There is no risk for the everyday person to being exposed to secondhand smoke.'

Progressive leaders running America's big cities have whole-heartedly embraced a once fringe method of responding to the drug epidemic. Instead of law enforcement and addiction treatment, they've opted to hand out clean needles, 'booty-bumping kits' to rectally administer drugs, and crack pipes.

They call this 'harm reduction.'

It's a deadly farce.

Look no further than the Emerald City, known for the Space Needle, hip coffee shops and, of course, meth and fentanyl killing historic numbers of locals.

Instead of law enforcement and addiction treatment, they've opted to hand out clean needles, 'booty-bumping kits' to rectally administer drugs, and crack pipes. (Above) A homeless man, 24, injects methamphetamine into his arm on March 13, 2022 in Seattle

Radical left lawmakers, health officials, and activists introduced needle exchanges long ago, as a means of slowing a raging H.I.V./AIDS epidemic exacerbated by addicts sharing dirty drug paraphernalia.

Then as the ideologues gained power, and when no one was looking, they pushed the envelope. Before the public realized it, officials in cities like Philadelphia and San Francisco were debating who would be the first to open a heroin-injection site (dubiously titled 'safe consumption sites').

The New York City Department of Health started telling addicts, 'Don't be ashamed you are using, be empowered that you are using safely.' The Biden administration tucked $30 million in grants for 'harm reduction' programs into the 2021 coronavirus relief package.

When Republicans were outraged by the distribution of federally-funded stems for crack pipes, they were accused of spreading a 'racist trope.'

The radical left will shame those who 'stigmatize' addicts, arguing that they are the ones 'meeting the addicts where they are.'

But one taxpayer-supported Seattle health worker bluntly explained harm reduction to city councilmembers in May: 'I know it can be a little controversial, but one of the key tenets of harm reduction, that I see, is that we want to be able to facilitate and champion autonomy of people who use drugs.'

How brave! But while they fake compassion people are dying and cities are being destroyed.

In 2022, King County/Seattle recorded a staggering 1,000 fatal drug overdoses, a record high driven by fentanyl flowing into the area thanks to Biden's porous border.

One taxpayer-supported Seattle health worker bluntly explained harm reduction to city councilmembers in May: 'I know it can be a little controversial, but one of the key tenets of harm reduction, that I see, is that we want to be able to facilitate and champion autonomy of people who use drugs.' (Above) Homeless encampment nears downtown Seattle

Seattle is the only city in the state where it's legal to use hard drugs in public. Far-left councilmember Teresa Mosqueda, best known for defending a man who threatened to murder cops, voted down a drug criminalization bill. (Above) Seattle City Council, Mosqueda is seen 8th from left

By the end of September (or possibly by the time you finish this article), the county will shatter that record. Nationwide, driven by the expanding harm reduction movement, we've lost a historic 109,680 lives to drugs.

The biggest reason harm reduction doesn't work is that it was never designed to get addicts clean.

San Francisco shutdown their $22 million safe consumption site in 2022 less than a year after it opened. In the first four months of the center's opening, it had referred just 18 of the more than 23,000 'visitors' to drug treatment programs. In the meantime, blocks of the Tenderloin District were transformed into a fetid open air drug market.

These policies don't only kill addicts  they demolish cities.

At one Seattle bus stop in early September, commuters arrived one morning to find two men lying dead on the benches.

'I don't even think shock is the word to use at this point,' said one woman. 'It's absolutely numbing, I don't know how a city like Seattle has turned out like this.'

Actually, we do know.

It's long past time for progressives to wake-up and smell the meth and fentanyl.
They stormed what they called a 'deeply cruel' party to complain

Tenants claim the end of the moratorium in the exclusive area will spike homelessness

Landlords say many renters who could pay rent didn't because it allowed them not to

COVID-era moratorium was one of the last to be abolished in the country

A group of renters in the expensive California suburb Berkeley stormed an event where landlords were celebrating the end of a COVID-era ban on evictions, plunging the event into violence and sparking a brawl that saw an elderly landlord get punched in the face.

The bayside city was among the last in Alameda County to abolish the protection that landlords claim was being used as cover for widespread rent avoidance.

It forbid them from evicting anyone who did not pay rent, but the landlords say it cost them tens of thousands of dollars over the last three years.

The unemployment rate in Berkeley is 3.8 percent - on par with the national average - and the median rent is $3,800. It is known to be a wealthy enclave with a deeply academic community thanks to its eponymous college.

To celebrate the end of the milestone, the Berkeley Property Owners Association (BPOA) arranged a party in a bar.

But more than 100 angry renters crashed the soiree, calling it 'deeply cruel'.

Tenants in Berkeley stormed a party being hosted by landlords to celebrate the end of a COVID-era moratorium that banned evictions for not paying rent

The tenants complained that the end of the evictions ban would lead to 'homelessness'

I went around and told our members to remain quiet, and peaceful and not engage, and they didnt,' BPOA President Krista Gulbransen told Berkeleyside.

I dont know how it went down from there, but next thing I know people are shoving each other.

Gulbransen herself was shoved to the ground as multiple fights broke out after a group of protesters decided to enter the venue an hour into the party.

One male landlord reportedly slapped a female protester in the face, while another protester knocked a landlords glasses off.

'We make no qualms about celebrating the end of the eviction moratorium,' said Gulbransen.

'We are celebrating the end of the tenants who could have paid rent, and chose not to.'

The BPOA which has around 750 members said one elderly attendee was punched in the face.

The Berkeley Property Owners Association arranged the event to talk about the end of the moratorium, that they say cost landlords thousands

And it slammed the Berkeley Police department for refusing to remove the protesters after arriving at the scene.

One officer shared that they would not do anything as this was political, added spokeswoman Becky Warren.

We do not believe barging into a local restaurant to disrupt, throw things, and shove people is political, it is wrong.

She said that Gulbransen found her car broken into after returning to it and that some members have received 'threatening posts online and calls' since the event.

'Hostile dissidents disrupted a private gathering at a local restaurant to intimidate, harass, and physically assault our members who are law-abiding small business owners.

'Their protest planning included language celebrating mass killing of landlords, celebrations by guillotine, and references to landlords as parasites.

'Their tactics to escalate, intimidate and cause harm not only impacted our members, but also the restaurant workers and patrons who were dining at the restaurant.'

The eviction ban was introduced in March 2020 alongside many nationwide designed to protect people thrown out of work by shutdowns caused by the pandemic.

New York lifted its ban in January 2022 and Los Angeles lifted its at the end of March this year.

But Jesse Arreguin, the Democrat mayor of Berkeley, resisted intense demands from landlords to follow suit.

The eviction ban was introduced in March 2020 alongside many nationwide designed to protect people thrown out of work by shutdowns caused by the pandemic

Rental payments were protected during the pandemic by California's Covid-19 Rent Relief Program with many grants being paid direct to landlords

The self-described 'unapologetic progressive' previously sat on the city's Rent Stabilization Board and has made it his mission to 'restore Berkeley to the forefront of progressive leadership on the environment and social justice'.

Rental payments were protected during the pandemic by California's Covid-19 Rent Relief Program with many grants being paid direct to landlords.

Berkeley's Eviction Defense Center claims that the city's landlords received more than $5 million from the scheme.

But it is 18 months since the scheme closed to new applicants, and Warren said that tenants taking advantage of the moratorium had now cost some of her members tens of thousands of dollars.

When [a landlord] might have just one or two properties that is a huge hardship,' she told DailyMail.com.

'Theres no property owner that ever wants to evict a tenant unnecessarily.

Median household income in the Frisco suburb tops $97,000 according to the US Census.

But nearly one-in-six live below the poverty line in a university town where fewer than half are owner-occupiers and the median rent is nearly double the national average.

Leah Simon-Weisberg of Berkeleys Rent Stabilization Board said the BPOA had not produced any evidence that landlords had lost out because of the eviction ban.

'While the moratorium is over, COVID-19 continues to spread in our community,' she told SFGate.

It seems very insensitive to those who might be rendered homeless to ever celebrate eviction.'

She called the party 'completely in character' for the BPOA but said most landlords in the area had been 'very generous and patient and really worked to help tenants', during the pandemic.
Critics have been quick to cast doubt over Maussan's unveiling of 'aliens'

Mexican journalist and ufologist Jaime Maussan unveiled the bodies of what he believes to be two alien corpses in front of congress in Mexico City on Tuesday.

The bizarre three-fingered corpses, he said, were 'non-human beings that are not part of our terrestrial evolution' - and 'the queen of all evidence' of alien life on earth.

Carbon dating by the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) even found the bodies were more than 1,000 years old, 70-year-old Maussan claimed.

But critics have been quick to point out the journalist's past record of similar claims, later debunked as 'almost certainly human-made' and 'recently manufactured human dolls' covered with a 'mixture of paper and synthetic glue to simulate the presence of skin'.

Since the presentation on Tuesday, a researcher for UNAM has also dismissed claims the institution stood behind his findings as 'false', adding: 'He told me extraterrestrials do not talk to me like they talk to him because I don't believe in them'.

Mexican journalist Jaime Maussan attends a press conference while two 'non-human' beings are displayed to the media, at the Camino Real hotel, in Mexico City, on September 13, 2023

The remains were much smaller than those presented in 2017 but also had long heads and three fingers on each hand

Two 'non-human' bodies were presented to deputies in Mexican Congress on Tuesday, pictured laying in boxes under glass

Photo shows a close-up of the body, which appears to have three fingers on each hand

Lawmakers heard testimony Tuesday from individuals suggesting the possibility that extraterrestrials might exist.

The hearing included comment from former US Navy pilot Ryan Graves, who gave testimony earlier this year on 'UAP' sightings and government classification, and from retired USAF lieutenant Robert Salas.

But the main focus was on the presentation of two humanoid bodies, shown to attendees in small glass-plated boxes.

The apparently desiccated bodies were said to have been found in 2017, deep underground in the sandy Peruvian coastal desert of Nazca.

The area is known for gigantic enigmatic figures ranging from 50 to 1200ft long, scraped into the earth and seen only from a birds-eye-view.

Most attribute the Nazca Lines to ancient indigenous communities, but the formations have captured the imaginations of many.

Some have speculated the lines, without a single definitive origin story, are themselves alien.

In 2017, Maussan - who has worked as a journalist for more than 50 years - made similar claims of having discovered alien life in Peru.

But a report by the country's prosecutor's office found that the bodies were actually 'recently manufactured dolls, which have been covered with a mixture of paper and synthetic glue to simulate the presence of skin.'

The report added that the figures were almost certainly human-made and that 'they are not the remains of ancestral aliens that they have tried to present'.

The bodies were not publicly unveiled at the time, so it is unclear if they are the same as those presented to Mexico's congress.

In another 2017 report, Maussan appeared in a video to show the remains of an alleged non-human being.

The findings were later debunked as a mummified child's corpse.

The bodies presented to congress on Tuesday were much smaller than those that appeared in the 2017 clip - but share similarities in having three-fingered hands and elongated heads.

Journalist and UFO researcher Jaime Maussan speaks during a briefing on unidentified flying objects at the San Lazaro legislative palace, in Mexico City, September 12

The strange bodies were said to be 1,000 years old, according to alleged carbon dating by UNAM

The body, presented in a glass box, was seen with three finger-like digits on its hand

Remains of an allegedly 'non-human' being is seen on display during a briefing on unidentified flying objects, known as UFOs, at the San Lazaro legislative palace, in Mexico City

On Wednesday, Julieta Fierro, researcher at the Institute of Astronomy at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, was among those to express skepticism, saying that many details about the figures 'made no sense.'

Fierro added that the researchers' claims that her university endorsed their supposed discovery were false, and noted that scientists would need more advanced technology than the X-rays they claimed to use to determine if the allegedly calcified bodies were 'non-human'.

'Maussan has done many things. He says he has talked to the Virgin of Guadalupe,' she said.

'He told me extraterrestrials do not talk to me like they talk to him because I dont believe in them.'

The scientist added that it seemed strange that they extracted what would surely be a 'treasure of the nation' from Peru without inviting the Peruvian ambassador.

Ryan Graves also took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to say that he was 'disappointed by this unsubstantiated stunt'.

Maussan was certain the findings would be a 'watershed' moment, however.

'It's the queen of all evidence,' Maussan claimed.

'That is, if the DNA is showing us that they are non-human beings and that there is nothing that looks like this in the world, we should take it as such.'

Born in Mexico City, Maussan studied journalism at UNAM in the early 1970s before going on to study at Miami University in the US.

He worked at a number of Mexican outlets including El Sol de Mexico and Televisa, and earned a Global 500 Roll of Honour award in 1990, presented by the UN Environment Programme for recognition of environmental achievements.

The acknowledgement said: 'Mr. Flota has dedicated two decades of his journalistic career to the protection of the environment.

'His television series on the monarch butterfly and the sanctuaries of this endangered species played a key role in the creation of legislation to preserve it.'

Tuesday's session, unprecedented in the Mexican Congress, took place two months after a similar one before the U.S. Congress in which a former U.S. Air Force intelligence officer claimed his country has probably been aware of 'non-human' activity since the 1930s.

Graves wrote after the hearing that he was 'disappointed by this unsubstantiated stunt'

Executive Director of Americans for Safe Aerospace, Ryan Graves, speaks at the briefing on Tuesday. Graves gave testimony earlier this year on 'UAP' sightings and classification

Congressman Sergio Gutierrez Luna of the ruling Morena party, made it clear that Congress has not taken a position on the theses put forward during the more than three-hour session.

Believing or not was up to each member of the legislative body, but those who testified had to swear an oath to tell the truth.

Gutierrez Luna stressed the importance of listening to 'all voices, all opinions' and said it was positive that there was a transparent dialogue on the issue of extraterrestrials.

In the U.S. in July, retired Major David Grusch alleged that the U.S. is concealing a longstanding program that retrieves and reverse engineers unidentified flying objects. The Pentagon has denied his claims.

Grusch's highly anticipated testimony before a House Oversight subcommittee was the U.S. Congress latest foray into the world of UAPs - or 'unidentified aerial phenomena,' which is the official term the U.S. government uses instead of UFOs.

Democrats and Republicans in recent years have pushed for more research as a national security matter due to concerns that sightings observed by pilots may be tied to U.S. adversaries.
A small pod of dolphins was caught on camera whipping through glowing blue bioluminescent waves off the coast of Newport Beach, California, Monday night.

Footage of the ethereal dolphins was captured by Newport Coastal Adventure photographer Mark Girardeau, who was out on a boat in the evening filming the bioluminescence billowing around their motor.

At least three dolphins were captured circling the boat, zipping freely through the water and lighting it up with lines of electric blue.

The luminous glow is caused by dinoflagellate algae, which turn the ocean water red during the day but glow in blue at night.

Red tides and bioluminescent waves have been seen all along the Southern California coast over the last month.

A small pod of dolphins was caught on camera whipping through glowing blue bioluminescent waves off the coast of Newport Beach, California , Monday night

The luminous glow is caused by dinoflagellate algae, which turn the ocean water red during the day but glow in blue at night

A bioluminescent glow in Newport Beach, California on September 12

Boat passengers overlook the Bioluminescence on the California coast

The photosynthetic dinoflagellates are technically tiny organisms that drink in the ocean - sometimes called phytoplankton.

Dr. Drew Lucas, an associate professor at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, said: 'They're like plants in the sense that they photosynthesize, but they're unlike most plants in the fact that they move around a bunch. They can swim.'

The blue glow of the organisms only becomes apparent in the nighttime, when they are physically disturbed by actions like waves breaking, boats and dolphins splashing around.

'That flash of light for each individual cell is not very bright, but when there's a lot of them in the water, that's when they really can light the waves up and lead to quite bright glowing,' said Lucas.

The glowing effect, often referred to as 'the fire of the sea,' results in a signature blue flash that lasts for just 100 milliseconds.

The algae may be beautiful to look at, but red tides also produce toxins that can be harmful to humans. Most side effects from breathing in the red tide are minor and temporary and include coughing, sneezing and teary eyes.

However, the toxins are much more potent to some fish and shellfish, which, if consumed by humans, may cause illness.

Last week, a photographer captured bioluminescent plankton lighting up a California beach with a bright blue glow while boogie boarders surfed the waves.

Photographer Patrick Coyne captured a group of surfers who had grabbed their boogie boards in Huntington Beach and headed into the open waters to experience the glow of the Pacific for themselves.

'The bio continues to give us an amazing show and we captured more footage at Salt Creek Beach! We originally stopped by Crescent Bay which had some glowing waves but they werent very bright and is why we started checking other beaches,' Coyne wrote on Instagram.

A group of surfers grabbed their boogie boards in Huntington Beach and headed into the open waters to experience glow of the Pacific for themselves
A California single mother who was not yet done unpacking at her new home in Minneapolis when two shootings the first weekend has her looking for a new home in the crime-ridden city.

Lecretia Anderson said in one of the shootings, a stray bullet shattered her apartment's glass door Sunday while her son was in the bathtub.

'We both could have been hit by a situation we had nothing to do with. Literally nothing to do with innocent bystanders,' she said, having been left with shards of glass on her.

That came after a 21-year-old man was fatally shot outside a building near her new home. It has her convinced to find a new home.

'There's no way I can go back. There's no way I'd ever feel safe in that area to even go back,' Anderson said.

A California single mother who was not yet done unpacking at her new home in Minneapolis when two shootings the first weekend has her looking for a new home in the crime-ridden city

'It's not as safe as I was expecting, especially as a single mother of a young son,' she added.

Both shootings took place in Minneapolis' Uptown neighborhood, which has received over 1,000 calls for shots fired to date in 2023.

While that's down from the same point in 2022, assaults, sex offenses, motor vehicle thefts and vandalism are still up in the precinct, according to the city's stats.

For Anderson, it was simply stunning to see multiple shootings within a single weekend.

'The movers came maybe three or four days ago. Plenty of stuff in boxes on the floor, never got a chance to unpack and this happened,' Anderson added.

'I grabbed our suitcases that we had packed from our flights here. I'm like, 'Let's go,' she said.

One of the bullets struck a sprinkler in her apartment and led to minor water damage.

A member of the community set up a Spotfund for Anderson to help them try to find a new place to live. They hope to raise $10,000.

'The movers came maybe three or four days ago. Plenty of stuff in boxes on the floor, never got a chance to unpack and this happened,' Lecretia Anderson said

One of the bullets struck a sprinkler in her apartment and led to minor water damage

For Anderson, it was simply stunning to see multiple shootings within a single weekend upon moving in

'After the assessment of the apartment I was not able to salvage much,' Anderson wrote.

'At this point it is a total loss. We lost everything. We just moved here from California 3 weeks ago, no family, no friends, No support what so ever.'

She added the property manager had reassured her the neighborhood was safe.

Minneapolis police said Monday that it will bulk up officer presence in the area and deploy 'specialty units' in the neighborhood, KSTP reported.

Water restoration crews were seen outside the apartment that same day working on the sprinkler.

The 21-year-old man shot and killed Friday was identified as Vintrez Lamont Johnson.

The 21-year-old man shot and killed Friday was identified as Vintrez Lamont Johnson

Authorities said he was shot multiple times just before 9 p.m. and died later at a hospital from his injuries.

Johnson's mother is also attempting to crowdfund relief for her son on GoFundMe and also attempting to raise $10,000.

She wants to raise the money for Johnson's funeral. The victim has a 1-year-old daughter whom he leaves behind.

'All he wanted to be was the best father he could be for his daughter but she will never get the chance to experience that,' mother Cynthia writes.

'He loved to dance, he loved rapping, making beats, and having a good time. He was always fun to be around and he was loved by his family and his community,' she added.
Before her disappearance, Tina Louise Greer frequently told her daughter she could not leave bikie Lesley 'Grumpy' Sharman because he would kill her, a coroner has heard.

In January 2012, Ms Greer left her daughter - then 13 - with a friend to visit Sharman on his Gold Coast hinterland property.

The 32-year-old never returned.

Days later her car was located at the Governors Chair lookout at Spicers Gap - a dead end road passing Sharman's house.

Ms Greer's body has never been found.

Tina Louise Greer (above) pictured with daughter Lili went missing in January 2012 - she is presumed dead but her body has never been found

Ms Greer's daughter, Lili Greer (above), claims her mother's bikie boyfriend, Lesley 'Grumpy' Sharman, was violent

Sharman was a person of interest in the case but was never arrested and died in a car crash in late 2018.

At the inquest into Ms Greer's suspected death, daughter Lili said she had witnessed Sharman being violent towards her mother during their six-year relationship.

She said her mother 'often' told her she couldn't leave Sharman because he would kill her.

'I would say ... over five times. It happened frequently enough for me to know I can't pinpoint the one time,' she said in Brisbane Coroners Court on Wednesday.

She also referenced a call when her mother 'says goodbye and is whispering like she believes she is going to die'.

There were other occasions when she claimed she heard Sharman threatening her mother.

'I do recall him saying "you'll never be able to get a job' and things like that, like 'I'll essentially ruin your life",' Lili Greer said.

She also recalled her mother telling her Sharman had broken her nose.

Another time her mum told her Sharman had struck her head with a bar stool, causing blood to go all over the floor, before forcing her to clean it up, the coroner heard.

Lili claims Lesley 'Grumpy' Sharman (above) threatened to kill her mother 'over five times' before she disappeared

The car Ms Greer (above) drove the night she disappeared was found at the Governors Chair lookout at Spicers Gap - a dead end road passing Sharman's house

Lili Greer said she later found a CT scan referral for her mother which she believed was for the bar stool attack.

She said she had witnessed many instances of intimidation and controlling behaviour by Sharman towards her mother.

Asked to provide an example, she said: 'We were in the car driving. I believe they had a disagreement and he just tried to intimidate us by swerving off the road.'

She described her mother as a fiery person who would defend herself.

However, Lili Greer said on one occasion she stood up to Sharman.

She said she stood in the way when she claimed Sharman grabbed her mum and tried to drag her into a bedroom.

He responded by saying "something along the lines of f*** off ... I'll smash your face",' Lili Greer said.

No evidence of Ms Greer has been found despite police offering a $250,000 reward in 2020.

Police advised in 2015 she was believed dead.

Coroner Kerrie O'Callaghan will consider the police response to allegations of domestic violence, their investigation into Ms Greer's disappearance and investigations into the disappearance of missing women who were known to be domestic violence victims.

Lili (pictured with her mother) claims she once stood up to Sharman and he told her 'f*** off, I'll smash your face'

The response by the Gold Coast-based rehabilitation centre run by the Salvation Army to Ms Greer's disclosures of domestic violence will also be considered.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

Lifeline 13 11 14
Australia's top watchdogs regulating Qantas have been revealed to be members of the embattled airline's exclusive Executive Chairman's Lounge.

Five of the seven commissioners of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) are members of the invite-only Chairman's Lounge, the regulator said in a statement.

This includes ACCC chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb and corporate watchdog Joseph Longo.

The ACCC launched action in the Federal Court alleging Qantas had engaged in false, misleading or deceptive conduct by selling tickets for more than 8,000 cancelled flights between May and July last year.

The regulator, who launched the action last month, is seeking to penalise the airline by more than $250million.

Top Qantas regulators have revealed to be members of the embattled airline's exclusive Executive Chairman's Lounge (stock image)

Three board members and three senior executives of the Civil Aviation and Safety Authority (CASA), the government body responsible for regulating aviation safety, are also members.

The lounge is reserved for members of parliament, celebrities and business executives who enjoy plush leather sofas, luxury facilities, restaurant-quality food, a complimentary bar, and, above all, peace and quiet.

It comes just three days after three MPs who appeared on an episode of the ABC's Q+A program admitted to maintaining chairman lounge memberships despite criticising the airline for alleged misconduct.

National MP Kevin Hogan, Agriculture Minister Murray Watt and independent Member Kylea Tink raised their hands when host Patricia Karvelas asked who on the panel were members.

Former NSW Premier and High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell also raised his hand.

The month before, it was reported that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's 23-year-old son Nathan had received a pass for the lounge, sparking debate about the federal government's close relationship with Qantas.

It was the start of another round of issues to face Qantas, including the airline's announcement of a $2.47billion profit result. At the same time, it slashed costs, claimed $900 million in JobKeeper benefits and struggled to offer adequate customer service.

Some of this cost-cutting came when the national carrier sacked employees during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The High Court ruled Qantas had illegally sacked almost 1700 workers during this period on Wednesday.

Five of the seven commissioners of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) are members of the Lounge (pictured)

The Executive Chairman's Lounge hosts celebrities, judges, current and former prime ministers and senior public servants

The affected ex-Qantas employees will seek compensation and penalties, which could run into the hundreds of millions.

It was also revealed amidst this ruling that every High Court judge in Australia is part of the Executive Chairman's Lounge.

Federal Nationals leader David Littleproud said it's clear that Qantas did the wrong thing and pointed out that new CEO Vanessa Hudson was chief financial officer at the time.

'There are serious cultural deficiencies at Qantas,' he told Nine's Today show on Thursday.

'I think this has malicious intent - they were taking advantage of what was the biggest crisis since the Second World War in this country and ... took advantage of it at these workers' expense.

'There are serious questions that need to be looked at ... the board needs to act swiftly, or themselves step aside.'

In a unanimous judgment, the court dismissed an appeal from the carrier which had sought to overturn two rulings made by the Federal Court that the outsourcing of baggage handlers, cleaners and ground staff was unlawful.

Qantas was found in the Federal Court to have breached the Fair Work Act in outsourcing its ground operations to avoid enterprise bargaining rights, after the Transport Workers' Union took legal action against the carrier.

Former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce (pictured) resigned earlier this month after the national carrier faced intense scrutiny over a multitude of problems

The airline, which retrenched workers in 2020, lost billions of dollars during the pandemic, which decimated the aviation sector.

Qantas said the decision to outsource the remainder of the airline's ground handling function was made in August 2020, when 'borders were closed, lockdowns were in place and no COVID vaccine existed'.

'As we have said from the beginning, we deeply regret the personal impact the outsourcing decision had on all those affected and we sincerely apologise for that,' the airline said in a statement.

'A prior decision by the Federal Court has ruled out reinstatement of workers but it will now consider penalties for the breach and compensation for relevant employees, which will factor in redundancy payments already made by Qantas.'

The airline also recently faced intense scrutiny over an attempt to block additional flights from Qatar Airways and setting an expiry date for $400million in unused flight credits that were incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Former CEO Alan Joyce was grilled in senate inquiry over these mounting issues last month.

It resulted in him resigning as the chief executive of the airline on September 5 - bringing forward his resignation forward by two months.

Ms Hudson has since taken over.
Most rental homes are too cold in winter but record-low vacancy rates combined with higher power costs mean tenants have limited scope to escape the unhealthy conditions, or demand improvements.

Tenant advocacy organisation Better Renting, in a report released on Thursday, is calling for government action on minimum energy efficiency standards for rentals, including efficient heaters and ceiling insulation.

A survey found homes in NSW and South Australia were so substandard that it was routinely colder indoors than outdoors.

Better Renting has been working with 59 representative 'renter researchers' across Australia to track temperature and humidity.

A high proportion of rental homes had average temperatures below a healthy minimum of 18C, which has been recommended by the World Health Organisation as a safe indoor temperature in winter.

Katie (above) said she cannot afford to heat her Melbourne rental home despite being a median income earner because it isn't energy efficient

Melbourne resident Katie, who asked her surname not be published, was among the researchers and the maximum temperature recorded in the 29-year-old's home was 18.5C, while the median was 12.9C.

She and her partner have been renting in Coburg North for almost a year and Katie said their free-standing home gets so cold, she cramps.

'We're trying to move out at the moment but given the state of the housing market it's very difficult and quite a lengthy process,' she told AAP.

The home has had maintenance issues including a leaking roof, bathroom mould, poor insulation and a plumbing issue.

'It's just so frustrating because I'm a median income earner, I have a job, a university degree, I can pay the bills and I still struggle to heat my home,' Katie said.

'When even someone as lucky as me is struggling it's indicative that it's such a huge problem.'

Many renters cut back on heating altogether to save money, while also struggling to pay high rents.

A survey found homes in NSW and South Australia were so substandard that it was routinely colder indoors than outdoors

'This winter renters didn't have enough power to warm their homes, in more ways than one,' spokesman Joel Dignam said.

'In draughty, uninsulated homes, you struggle to reach a decent temperature, even if you are running a heater.'

But renters, fearing eviction, keep quiet about their cold homes and mould problems.

'We need to see action on minimum energy efficiency standards for rentals,' Mr Dignam said.

'This needs to be complemented by action on unfair evictions and rent increases, so renters don't have to worry about retaliation every time they speak up for themselves.'

Some governments have made changes and others were urged to follow suit.

Victoria and the ACT have introduced minimum energy efficiency standards for rentals. Since March, Victoria has had a requirement for an energy-efficient heater in the main living area.

But landlords in the ACT skirt requirements by listing as 'energy efficiency rating unknown', or 'this property does not comply with the minimum insulation standard'.

Renters in Tasmania had some of the worst conditions with homes below 18C for more than 22 hours a day. The report found the average median temperature was just 14C.

Renters like Katie (above) are calling for landlords to install energy-efficient heat and cooling systems and improve insulation

Tasmanian rental law requires a heater in the main living area but there is no requirement for it be energy-efficient and affordable.

Real Estate Institute of Australia deputy president Leanne Pilkington said most property owners would be happy to improve heating and cooling and suggested tenants collect information and approach their property manager with a plan for improvement.

'It is a great reminder for any tenants looking for cooling upgrades to get ready for what we expect to be a hot summer, to get in touch with your property manager now and get the conversation started,' Ms Pilkington said.
King Charles has said he and the Queen are 'desperately saddened' after thousands of people died following 'horrific' flooding in Libya.

Storm Daniel hit the coastal city of Derna and other eastern parts of the North African country on Sunday, leading to floods, with the death toll so far reaching at least 5,100 in Derna alone.

Moin Kikhia, a former civil servant in Libyas finance ministry and the founder of the Libyan Democratic Institute, told The Telegraph: 'The number of deaths is much larger than first thought but no one has the exact numbers. The government thinks it might exceed 40,000 dead but no one wants to say it for fear of making the people angry.'

King Charles reaffirmed the UK's support for the country in a message sent to the head of Libya's Presidential Council, Dr Mohamed Menfi, on Wednesday evening.

It read: 'Your Excellency, my wife and I are so desperately saddened by the devastating impact and loss of life caused by Storm Daniel and the subsequent floods.

Derna city following a powerful storm and heavy rainfall that hit the country on September 13, 2023

King Charles reaffirmed the UK's support for the country in a message sent to the head of Libya's Presidential Council, Dr Mohamed Menfi, on Wednesday evening (File Photo)

'We mourn with all those who have lost their loved ones, and continue to pray for everyone whose lives and livelihoods have been affected by the horrific floods.

'I admire greatly all those who are engaged tirelessly in the rescue efforts in such dire conditions, and praise their selfless bravery.

'I know that my Government stands ready to support your needs. Charles R.'

His message comes after the UK Government announced support 'worth up to 1 million'.

The Foreign Office said the funding was an 'initial package' to provide assistance for those most affected by the devastation.

On Wednesday, search teams combed streets, wrecked buildings and the sea to look for bodies in Derna, where the collapse of two dams unleashed a massive flash flood that killed at least 5,100 people.

Mayor Abdulmenam al-Ghaithi told Al Arabiya television that the estimated number of deaths in the city could range from 18,000 to 20,000, based on the number of wiped-out districts.

Members of the rescue teams from the Egyptian army carry a dead body in Derna as they walk in the mud between the destroyed buildings, after a powerful storm and heavy rainfall hit Libya, on September 13, 2023

People walk amid the debris in Derna following a powerful storm and heavy rainfall that hit the country, on September 13, 2023

A damaged car in Derna following a powerful storm and heavy rainfall that hit the country, on September 13, 2023

A handout satellite picture released by Maxar Technologies on September 13, 2023 shows the port facility of Derna after floods, on September 13, 2023

Derna has struggled to get help after Sunday night's deluge washed away most access roads.

Aid workers who managed to reach the city described the devastation in its centre, with thousands still missing and tens of thousands left homeless.

'Bodies are everywhere, inside houses, in the streets, at sea. Wherever you go, you find dead men, women, and children,' Emad al-Falah, an aid worker from Benghazi, said over the phone from Derna. 'Entire families were lost.'

Mediterranean storm Daniel caused deadly flooding on Sunday in many towns of eastern Libya, but the worst-hit was Derna.

Two dams in the mountains above the city collapsed, sending floodwaters roaring down the Wadi Derna river and through the city centre, sweeping away entire city blocks.

As much as a quarter of the city has disappeared, emergency officials said.

Waves rose as high as 7 metres (23 feet), Yann Fridez, head of the delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Libya, told broadcaster France24.

Mohammed Derna, a teacher in the city, said he, his family and neighbours rushed to the roof of their apartment building, stunned at the volume of water rushing by. It reached the second story of many buildings, he said.

They watched the people below, including women and children, being washed away and screaming for help.

'It was like a Hollywood horror movie,' he said over the phone from a field hospital in Derna.

Destroyed vehicles and damaged buildings in the eastern city of Derna, about 290 kilometres east of Benghazi, in the wake of the Mediterranean Storm Daniel, on September 11, 2023

Damaged cars in Derna after a powerful storm and heavy rainfall hit Libya, on September 13, 2023

Head of Libya's Presidential Council Mohamed Al-Menfi (File Photo)

Derna lies on a narrow coastal plain, below steep mountains. Only two roads from the south remain usable, and they involve a long, winding route through the mountains.

Collapsed bridges over the river split the city centre, further hampering movement.

Search teams scoured shattered apartment buildings and retrieved the dead floating offshore in the Mediterranean Sea, al-Falah said.

Ossama Ali, a spokesman for an ambulance centre in eastern Libya, said at least 5,100 deaths were recorded in Derna, along with around 100 others elsewhere in eastern Libya. More than 7,000 people in the city were injured.

A spokesman for the eastern Libyan interior ministry put the death tally in Derna at more than 5,300, according to the state-run news agency.

The number of deaths is likely to increase since teams are still collecting bodies, Ali said.

At least 9,000 people are missing, but that number could drop as communications are restored.

At least 30,000 people in Derna were displaced by the flooding, the UN's International Organization for Migration said.

Men walk past destroyed buildings after flash floods in Derna, eastern Libya, on September 11, 2023

A handout satellite picture released by Maxar Technologies shows Wadi Derna river and destroyed buildings in Derna after the floods on September 13, 2023

Hassan El Salheen weeps after burying the repatriated body of his son, Aly, who died along with his three cousins in Libya after Storm Daniel hit the country, at Al Sharief village in Bani Swief province, Egypt, on September 13, 2023

The storm hit other areas in eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa and Marj.

Rescuers retrieved at least 150 bodies on Wednesday from the sea off Bayda, bringing the death tally in the town to about 200, Ali said.

The startling devastation pointed to the storm's intensity, but also Libya's vulnerability.

The country is divided by rival governments - one in the east and the other in the west. The result has been neglect of infrastructure in many areas.

Ahmed Abdalla, a survivor who joined the search-and-rescue effort, said they were putting bodies in the yard of a hospital before taking them for burial in mass graves at Derna's sole intact cemetery.

'The situation is indescribable. Entire families dead in this disaster. Some were washed away to the sea,' Abdalla said by phone.

Derna is 250 kilometres (150 miles) east of Benghazi, where international aid started to arrive on Tuesday.

Neighbouring Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia, as well as Turkey, Italy and the United Arab Emirates, sent rescue teams and aid.

The UK and German governments sent assistance too, including blankets, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, tents, water filters and generators.

US President Joe Biden also said the United States would send money to relief organisations and coordinate with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support.

Authorities transferred hundreds of bodies to morgues in nearby towns.

More than 300, including 84 Egyptians, were brought to the morgue in the city of Tobruk, 169 kilometres (105 miles) east of Derna, the local Medical Centre reported.

More than 70 of Derna's dead hailed from a single southern Egyptian village, el-Sharif.

A helicopter flies over damaged buildings in Derna, Libya, on September 13, 2023

Members of the rescue team from the Egyptian army inspect damaged areas following a powerful storm and heavy rainfall in Derna, Libya, on September 13, 2023

On Wednesday morning, hundreds attended a mass funeral in the village for 64 people.

Rabei Hanafy said his extended family lost 16 men in the flooding, 12 of whom were buried on Wednesday.

Another funeral for four others was held in a town in the northern Nile Delta.

Among those killed in Libya was the family of Saleh Sariyeh, a Palestinian originally from the Ein el-Hilweh refugee camp in Lebanon who had lived in Derna for decades.

The 62-year-old, his wife and two daughters were all killed when their home in Derna was washed away, his nephew Mohammed Sariyeh said. The four were buried in the city.

Due to ongoing gunbattles in Ein el-Hilweh, the family there could not hold a gathering to receive condolences from friends and neighbours, Mohammed said.

Derna, about 900 kilometres (560 miles) east of the capital, Tripoli, is controlled by the forces of powerful military commander Khalifa Hifter, who is allied with the eastern Libyan government.

The rival government in western Libya, based in Tripoli, is allied with other armed groups.

Derna was once a hub for extremist groups in the years of chaos that followed the NATO-backed uprising that toppled and killed longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011.
ABC host Lisa Millar has grilled Opposition frontbencher Sussan Ley over a controversial image posted by Peter Dutton that claimed Marcia Langton branded No voters as racist or stupid.

Mr Dutton posted a graphic on Instagram of Professor Langton, an architect of the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, standing next to Anthony Albanese with the words 'No Voters Branded "Racist, Stupid" By Prominent Voice Campaigner Marcia Langton'.

Prof Langton - who earlier this week claimed she was referring to the tactics of the No campaign and not its voters - has called in the lawyers in a bid to get Mr Dutton's post removed.

Millar clashed with Mr Dutton's deputy Ms Ley during a fiery interview on ABC News Breakfast on Thursday morning, with Millar asking why Mr Dutton hadn't taken down the post yet.

Deputy Opposition Leader Sussan Ley (right) was grilled by ABC host Lisa Millar (left) over a controversial image posted to social media by Peter Dutton of Voice Yes campaign leader Marcia Langton that claimed she said No voters were racist and stupid

'Your leader, Peter Dutton still has on his social media this morning, the headline that was taken down by the Australian newspaper saying 'No voters branded racist stupid by prominent Voice campaigner',' Millar said.

'Do you accept that she did not do that in that meeting? And why would Peter Dutton not take that down from his social media posts?'

Ms Ley responded by saying Prof Langton's comments suggested that 'the arguments at the heart of the No campaign are either racist or stupid'.

The Liberal politician then referred to other comments where the academic said 'hard No' voters were 'spewing racism' before she was cut off by Millar.

Millar doubled down: 'So it's okay to have it up there? You're not backing away from it, then - is what you're saying?'

Ms Ley hit back: 'No, I'm not Lisa because this is not about Liberal versus Labor.

'It's about the campaign and the messaging and the refusal of this government to actually distance itself or condemn the people who are saying these things.'

'Look one in one in five Australians are not spewing racism, we are not a racist country, it is OK to vote No, without this condemnation.'

The image of Professor Langton standing next to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese includes the words 'No Voters Branded 'Racist, Stupid' By Prominent Voice Campaigner Marcia Langton' below the logo of The Australian newspaper

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton (pictured) shared the picture to his Instagram account on Tuesday and has not taken it down

The initial remarks by Prof Langton about racism were made at a forum in Bunbury, Western Australia.

'Every time the No cases raise their arguments, if you start pulling it apart you get down to base racism  I'm sorry to say that's where it lands  or sheer stupidity,' she said.

'If you look at any reputable fact-checker, every one of them says the No case is substantially false. They are lying to you.'

'I've asked the No voters, what would you propose is a better option? What are we to do? Go on, as we are, with no change?

'I've not heard any of them come up with a solution that would work themselves.'

Meanwhile, Ms Ley's reference to Professor Langton saying that 'hard No voters' were 'spewing racism' was revealed in unearthed footage ripped from a panel discussion about the Voice to Parliament at the University of Queensland back in July.

The video, which aired on Sky News Australia, shows Professor Langton discussing a 'surge' in racism amid the Voice debate.

She said: 'The surge of racist nonsense is confined to a minority of Australians.

Professor Marcia Langton made the comments at a forum in Bunbury, Western Australia, and said Australians need to apply more scrutiny to claims by the No campaign

'Ordinary Australians are thinking, "yes, of course I'm voting for the Voice". And that would be say 48 49 per cent.

'Then there's the hard No voters. I'm hoping they're about 20 per cent.

'And they're the ones who are spewing the racism.'

Further audio emerged on Thursday morning of Prof Langton telling an audience in 2017 that Australia 'is a horribly racist country'.

'Of course Australia is racist. It's a horrible, racist country,' she said.

The Voice referendum will be held on October 14.
Migrants from Senegal are among the thousands being released to the streets of Southwest border towns as federal processing centers are overcapacity as a crush of crossings cripples the nation.

Street releases of migrants are being ordered in Tucson, Arizona, with migrants from African nations of Senegal, Mauritania, Ghana, Sudan part of the migrants who have recently made crossings into the US from Mexico.

Those released are now forced to fend for themselves in intense heat and limited resources.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has seen Southwest border encounters increase exponentially every fiscal year. So far this year there have been nearly 2million crossing in the region - a figure that doesn't include August and September.

Cochise County, Arizona, is being slammed with waves of migrants bussed from other counties after crossing the border amid President Joe Biden's lax policies.

'The intellectual avoidance and abandonment with intended consequences' by those leaders in Washington, DC, reference our southern border continues to be a slippery slope for those doing everything we can to protect our quality of life here in Cochise County!' Sheriff Mark Dannels said.

Senegalese migrants are amongst the thousands of others that have been turned away from processing facilities and let out onto the streets to fend for themselves.

Lines of thousands of migrants from parts of Africa and Mexico are seen pouring onto the streets of Tucson after being turned away from CBP holding facilities

'The migrants being released are from outside Cochise County but were bussed to Cochise County, processed and then released,' Daniels noted in a Facebook post.

'I applaud the local [Customs and Border Protections] agents and their leadership for doing all they legally can during this on-going crisis.'

It's unclear exactly how many migrants the processing facilities in Tucson can accommodate or how many have been transported to other locations such as Cochise County.

Some of the migrants crossing in from Mexico come from the African nation of Senegal - nearly 10,000 miles from Arizona.

Many African immigrants have come to America to avoid political strive and lower income living.

The US border has seen a flood of migrants from across the world, not just Central and South American nations such as Venezuela and Mexico. There have been migrants from China and other places entering via the porous southern border.

The 2022 fiscal year saw record-breaking numbers of encounters with migrants at the Southwest border with 2,378,944 reported crossings from October to September.

In 2023 through July there have been 1,973,092 - many of them coming as Title 42 expired.

The jump in crossing has grown in recent years with a mere 458,088 crossing reported in 2020 during the worldwide COVID pandemic.

Most migrant encounters are single adults (at 64.9 percent) but almost 600,000 (roughly 29 percent) are individuals in a family unit and there have been 109,298 (good for 5.54 percent) unaccompanied minors crossing the border.

According to CBP records, Tucson's field office have filed a record-breaking number of Title 8 inadmissables in July 2023 with 3,346 migrants being deported and banned from entering the U.S. for at least five years. An inadmissiable is a migrant who misrepresents documents to try and enter the US.

CBP records show all-time high numbers of migrant encounters along the Southwest border in recent months with no sign of slowing down despite the Biden administration's immigration efforts

U.S. Border Patrol officers are turning migrants away after processing them because their facilities are overcrowded and full to max-capacity

Migrants are faced with intense heat conditions in the dessert terrain of Tucson, Arizona

In August DailyMail.com reported the U.S. Border Patrol was holding migrants in an outdoor cage in Arizona's intense dessert heat as officers tried to cope with a new wave of migrants crossing the border from Mexico.

Issues of overcapacity are happening all across the southern border. Along with Tucson - street releases are happening in the San Diego sector and in Santa Cruz County, California.

In San Diego it's reported that CBP has been dealing with 20,000 migrants in custody over the last week - 5000 more than facilities can manage.

Border patrol can't accommodate for more than 15,000 migrants and are sending migrants onto the streets to fend for themselves after processing them at the border.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams has pleaded for months for help with the migrant influx, and has slammed President Biden for 'failing' to help New Yorkers

Thousands of asylum seekers have been bussed to major cities from border states including Texas as unprecedented numbers continue to enter the United States

To help address the border crisis, southern governors such as Texas' Greg Abbott and Florida's Ron DeSantis have been sending buses to liberal cities in the north, such as New York, Chicago and Washington, DC.

In New York, Mayor Eric Adams welcomed migrants two years ago when he declared the Big Apple a sanctuary city. Now, with more than 100,000 migrants arriving in recent months, Adams is saying it will 'destroy' the city.

'We're getting 10,000 migrants a month,' he said. 'Now we're getting people from all over the globe have made their minds up that they're going to come through the southern part of the border and come into New York City.'

The city has been overwhelmed by the migrants as it has desperately tried to find housing. The city has converted hundreds of hotels and schools into shelters for migrants.

Many of the migrants who have arrived in New York City have arrived on buses from the southern border.

Adams has estimated that the migrant crisis will cost New York $12billion over the next three years. He has begged state and federal officials for more financial help, but they have not offered much assistance.

That led Abbott to call Adams a 'hypocrite' for his changing stance on migrants.

'Mayor Adams was proud to tout his self-described sanctuary city status until Texas began busing migrants to New York City to provide relief to our overrun and overwhelmed border communities,' Texas Governor Greg Abbott's press secretary Andrew Mahaleris said in a statement to Fox News Digital.

'Instead of complaining about 13,000 migrants sent from Texas, Mayor Adams should be calling out his party leader, President Biden, who has been flying planeloads of migrants all around the country and oftentimes in the cover of night, straining state and local resources across the country.

'Until President Biden steps up and does his job, Texas will continue busing migrants to sanctuary cities to provide relief to our overwhelmed border towns.'
READ MORE: Human remains found near Hume Highway in Goulburn

The body of the woman was located by Police Yass River

The desperate search for a missing woman has come to a tragic end after her body was found in a river two months after she disappeared.

A set of human remains were found by NSW Police in the Yass River, about 50 kilometres north of Canberra, on September 3.

Detectives confirmed on Wednesday the human remains belonged to missing woman Tina Quinn, a loving wife and artist who disappeared two months ago.

A NSW Police spokesman said it is not yet known how she died, but they are not treating her disappearance as suspicious.

'A body, believed to be that of a missing woman, has been located in the Yass area,' he said.

Mrs Quinn (pictured) went missing on Sunday July 16 after she was last seen on her property in Yass River Road, in Canberra's north

NSW Police found the human remains of a woman in the Yass River on Sunday September 3 and on Wednesday confirmed the remains are of Tina Quinn, who disappeared from her property on July 16

'The body has now been identified as that of the missing woman, however, will undergo a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death'.

'A report will be prepared for the Coroner'.

The 34-year-old woman was last seen on a property on Yass River Road, in Canberra's north, on July 16.

Mrs Quinn's concerned husband Adrian had launched a desperate appeal for information on his wife's whereabouts.

The couple had moved into their home just over six months ago.

NSW Police held grave concerns for the woman's safety, had conducted land and air searchers in a bid to locate her.

Mrs Quinn, who was born in Germany, had set her sights on studying mathematics and cybersecurity.

At the time of her disappearance, Mr Quinn told the ABC he was worried about his wife's physical state.

Temperatures plummeted to as low as minus six degrees during the peak winter month.

'She's an artist, and just a really gentle person,' Mr Quinn said.

'We hold graves fears if she's outside with the weather conditions that have been in the area'.

NSW Police said Mrs Quinn had been driving in a white Toyota LandCruiser before she vanished.

NSW Police and her husband Adrian had launched a desperate attempt to locate the 34-year-old woman (pictured), after Mr Quinn appealed for public information following his wife's disappearance

The vehicle was found later at her home.

Mrs Quinn had sent a text message to her husband the day she went missing.

NSW Police said there was no information to suggest that her disappearance was suspicious.

The grim discovery comes after the remains of a person was found near the Hume Highway in NSW's Southern Tablelands, in late July.

The remains were discovered around 200 meters south of the Windellama Road overpass, south of Goulburn.
A California sex slave has unsuccessfully sought to have her conviction for murdering a woman overturned after claiming she lied about carrying out the killing to please her 'master' and 'mistress.'

Jessica Lopez wrote a seven-page confession letter after the body of Brittany Killgore, 22, was found on April 17, 2012, near Lake Skinner in Riverside County, California. She subsequently claimed its contents were made up - but a San Diego court ruled Tuesday that she must remain behind bars.

Lopez, then 25 years old, went to a Ramada Inn hotel in San Diego and tried to kill herself, leaving behind the letter.

She was found by medics and resuscitated, and then arrested.

Lopez's letter let to the arrest of her 'master', Marine Staff Sgt. Louis Ray Perez, then 45, and his pregnant girlfriend Dorothy Maraglino, then 40, who Lopez described as her 'mistress.' The trio were in a three-way 'throuple' relationship that saw Lopez wear a dog collar and eat from a dog bowl.

Jessica Lopez, who said she was a willing 'sex slave' for Louis Perez and Dorothy Maraglino, is pictured in court for her sentencing in November 2015. On Tuesday she lost her bid to have her conviction for murder overturned

A pregnant Dorothy Maraglino is pictured in June 2012 after her arrest for Brittany Killgore's murder. Her partner, Louis Perez (right) is pictured at his trial in March 2013

Killgore was abducted by Louis Perez, a Marine, who she knew through her husband Cory Killgore, who was also a Marine

Brittany and Cory Killgore. He was in Afghanistan when she was murdered: she had filed for divorce two weeks before her death

Killgore's husband Cory Killgore was a Marine and she was acquainted with Perez and Maraglino through her husband.

She had filed for divorce just days before she disappeared, while Cory was serving in Afghanistan. She was packing up her belongings to move home to Missouri when Perez approached her and offered to help if she would go on a dinner cruise with him.

Perez then abducted Killgore and forced her into a sexual bondage and torture session before she was strangled and dumped in the ditch.

All three - Perez, Maraglino, and Lopez - were convicted in 2015 of Killgore's murder and given life sentences.

But Lopez wanted to take advantage of a 2018 law change which ruled that accomplices who were not the actual killers or who did not play a significant role in the killing would not be charged with murder.

Lopez last week changed her story, and told a judge she had not participated in the killing, but wrote the confession because she was under orders from her 'master' and 'mistress'.

Sloan Ostbye, Lopez's attorney, told the court last week that Lopez was a willing 'slave', and wrote the confession letter to try and spare her 'master' and 'mistress.'

'She was manipulated, used and told to take responsibility for the crime,' Ostbye said, according to the San Diego Union Tribune.

Lopez told the court: 'Slaves don't ask questions. I know it sounds crazy, but it's true.'

Jessica Lopez is pictured in June 2012 speaking to her lawyer in court

Lopez said she and Maraglino were at a grocery store while Perez kidnapped Killgore, but had forgotten her wallet so drove home to get it, and found a 'distracted' Perez.

Lopez returned to the store, and Perez texted Maraglino to come home.

The two women returned home, and Maraglino went into the house and told Lopez to wait in the car.

Lopez said she waited in the car, then took the grocery bags and went into the garage, which had been converted to her bedroom.

In the room she saw a woman on her knees, with her head on the floor and her face turned away.

Lopez said the woman had tape wrapped around her head.

Lopez said Perez and Maraglino were also in the room, talking, and ordered Lopez upstairs.

She obeyed and spent the evening alone watching a movie.

Brittany Killgore was forced by Perez and Maraglino into a BDSM session, while Lopez was upstairs, Lopez now says

The next day, Perez ordered her to help dispose of Killgore's body.

Ostbye argued Lopez, as a willing sex slave, was brainwashed by Perez and Maraglino.

She ate out of a dog bowl, wore a collar, and participated in their bondage, discipline, dominance and submission sessions.

'She was willing to be cut, tattooed, eat out of bowls, even willing to kill herself,' said Ostbye.

'She was so controlled and brainwashed, she did whatever she was told to do.'

However, on Tuesday, the judge decided Lopez was a major participant in the killing, and so the conviction should stand.

'He had an understanding of the lifestyle between these participants, the BDSM lifestyle and the violence that was inflicted in the home,' said Patrick Espinoza, chief deputy district attorney of San Diego, explaining the judge's decision.

'And he was able to use that evidence to make a conclusion that she was not only a major participant, but she also had a reckless disregard for human life.'

Maraglino has also petitioned to have her murder conviction vacated under the new law, 10 News reported. A court date for her hearing has not been set.
Two women who were arrested at a vigil for murdered marketing executive Sarah Everard have secured payouts from the Metropolitan Police.

Patsy Stevenson and Dania Al-Obeid were both detained at the event on Clapham Common in March 2021, held amid ongoing Covid restrictions.

An outpouring of anger at Ms Everard's murder by a serving police officer led to hundreds of people attending the event, including the Princess of Wales.

The Met was criticised for its heavy handling of the later stages of the vigil, with outrage that some women were bundled to the ground - like Ms Stevenson, whose arrest picture went viral -, and its 'tone-deaf' reaction to the negative reaction in the aftermath.

Ms Stevenson said: 'It has taken over two years to reach this conclusion, it's been a really tiring and difficult process but it has felt important to push for some form of accountability and justice for myself and all women who attended the vigil to express our anger and grief over the murder of Sarah Everard by a serving Metropolitan Police officer.'

The Met was criticised for its heavy handling of the later stages of the vigil , with outrage that some women were bundled to the ground - like Patsy Stevenson, whose arrest picture went viral (pictured above) -, and its 'tone-deaf' reaction to the negative reaction in the aftermath

Patsy Stevenson and Dania Al-Obeid (pictured) were both detained at the event on Clapham Common in March 2021, held amid ongoing Covid restrictions

An outpouring of anger at Ms Everard's murder by a serving police officer led to hundreds of people attending the event, including the Princess of Wales

The event was originally planned by campaign group Reclaim These Streets, which cancelled the protest after Met officers threatened organisers with 10,000 fines under lockdown rules in place at the time.

But members of the public attended anyway, with no police intervention for around six hours before clashes occurred.

Commander Karen Findlay wrote in letters to both women: 'I wish to emphasise that I fully acknowledge that your motivations in attending the vigil were to express your grief and anger regarding the circumstances of the tragic murder of Sarah Everard, and to express the level of concern and dissatisfaction felt by you and many other women who were understandably feeling badly let down by the Met.

'The policing plan for the vigil was devised to provide an opportunity for members of the public to attend in order to express their grief and anger.

'Acknowledging that the fundamental right to protest remained, the circumstances at the time of the vigil - namely that we were in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic - presented an extremely difficult challenge for policing and the officers present due to the need to balance the potential risk such a gathering could pose to public health.

The event was originally planned by campaign group Reclaim These Streets, which cancelled the protest after Met officers threatened organisers with 10,000 fines under lockdown rules in place at the time

Commander Karen Findlay (pictured) wrote in letters to both women: 'I wish to emphasise that I fully acknowledge that your motivations in attending the vigil were to express your grief and anger regarding the circumstances of the tragic murder of Sarah Everard, and to express the level of concern and dissatisfaction felt by you and many other women who were understandably feeling badly let down by the Met'

Ms Stevenson said: 'It has taken over two years to reach this conclusion, it's been a really tiring and difficult process but it has felt important to push for some form of accountability and justice for myself and all women who attended the vigil to express our anger and grief over the murder of Sarah Everard by a serving Metropolitan Police officer'

'That aside, I appreciate the anger, frustration and alarm your arrest undoubtedly caused you, exacerbated by the subsequent proceedings, and I regret that your opportunity to express your grief and anger was curtailed by your arrest and removal.'

A legal battle rumbled on long after the vigil with the original RTS organisers successfully arguing that their right to protest had been breached by the Met.

Ms Al-Obeid said: 'I have found this journey incredibly difficult but very important as a survivor of domestic violence and someone who has been failed by the police in that context.

'I appreciate that the Met Police have acknowledged our motivations for attending it but "badly let down" is an understatement.

'I have felt abused, abandoned by the police prior to, during and post the vigil - I do not feel protected or safe with any police force.'

Ms Al-Obeid said: 'I have found this journey incredibly difficult but very important as a survivor of domestic violence and someone who has been failed by the police in that context. I appreciate that the Met Police have acknowledged our motivations for attending it but "badly let down" is an understatement'

Members of the public attended the vigil where many left flowers, cards and signs, with no police intervention for around six hours before clashes occurred

Rachel Harger, the women's solicitor from Bindmans LLP, told The Guardian her clients Ms Stevenson and Ms Al-Obeid have received 'substantial damages' from the Met (Pictured: The vigil at Clapham Common)

Anna Birley, who is part of Reclaim These Streets, said she hoped the Met's apology is just the first of many more.

She told The Guardian: 'The ability to admit when you've made a mistake and make amends is an important part of changing culture and doing better by London's women and girls.'

Rachel Harger, the women's solicitor from Bindmans LLP representing said: 'I am glad that the Met have finally acknowledged that those who attended the vigil had the fundamental right to protest the murder of Sarah Everard by a serving Met officer.

'Protests are as vital as they have ever been, without them, injustices will be unchallenged and people will lose confidence in democratic processes by which things can change.'

Ms Harger told The Guardian her clients Ms Stevenson and Ms Al-Obeid have received 'substantial damages' from the Met.
Prominent columnist and author Peter FitzSimons has highlighted that if the Indigenous Voice to Parliament fails it will be Australia's 'greatest day of shame'.

FitzSimons made the comment while tweeting an opinion column with the same headline from lawyer and investment banker Duncan Murray, arguing that the No campaign has employed 'a disingenuous dog-whistle'.

Mr Murray said 'harm' was being caused by No campaigners maintaining 'the Voice proposal will introduce a racial divide in the Constitution', which caused people to object being welcomed to their 'own damn country'.

He labelled such sentiments as 'rabidness at the margins'.

'Given everything that we have done to First Nations Peoples for more than 200 years, this is a humble and gentle request,' Mr Murray wrote of the Voice.

Peter FitzSimons (pictured right with wife Lisa Wilkinson) says if Australians reject the Voice it will be our greatest day of shame

'If we say No, it will perhaps be our day of greatest national shame.'

FitzSimons, a former Wallaby who lives on Sydney's north shore and is married to TV star Lisa Wilkinson, is one of Australia's best known authors and columnists.

He was also the former head of Australia's republican movement and a dedicated supporter of enshrining an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the constitution.

FitzSimons, who has inserted '#Yes' in his Twitter profile, stated he is 'a strong supporter of the Voice' while Interviewing his 'friend' and left-wing Yes advocate Thomas Mayo in April.

The tone of his interview was far different to the combative one he conducted with leading No vote proponent Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price for Sydney's Sun Herald in August 2022.

The interview with Mr Mayo ended in a jokey exchange about him not threatening FitzSimons' 'entrenched white privilege', while the interview with Senator Price ended with a terse 'thanks'.

Senator Price said the August 2022 interview with the columnist started out well, but that Fitzsimmons became 'aggressive... condescending and rude' to her.

She said it 'was like talking to a brick wall' and she felt 'insulted'.

'I'm not a wilting violet but he's a very aggressive bloke, his interview style is very bloody aggressive, he doesn't need to launch in,' she said.

'Accusing me of somehow giving power to racists because the issues I raise are confronting  he loses the point completely.'

FitzSimons made the comment while tweeting an article arguing for the Voice by businessman Duncan Murray

FitzSimons denied Senator Price's characterisation of how the interview went and said her claims were 'complete and utter nonsense'.

The interview was a 'professional exchange', he said.

During the interview with Senator Price, FitzSimons disputed her claim the Voice would drive a wedge between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians that wasn't the case.

'With a progressive mood sweeping the land, were far more unified now than weve ever been in our history, and the most prominent wedge, I respectfully submit, Senator, is people like you and your supporters?,' FitzSimons said.

'I dont accept that. How is having a bureaucracy based on race placed into the Constitution not driving a wedge?' Senator Price replied.

'That peddles racial stereotypes of Indigenous Australians being an homogenous separate entity, and were not.'

FitzSimons also asked Senator price whether 'in the silent watch of the night' did she ever 'think that, in the seriously prominent and powerful position you have, you are misusing the platform you have and are actually hurting Indigenous causes?'

FitzSimons and leading No advocate Jacinta Price had a combative interview in August last year

Senator Price replied she had no doubt 'whatsoever' about what she was 'trying to achieve' and the truth she was 'trying to unveil'.

The referendum to constitutionally recognise Indigenous Australians in the Constitution by the creation of the Voice will be held on October 14.

Polls published so far show the referendum is likely to fail.
Under-siege Yes campaigner Marcia Langton branded Australia a 'horrible, racist county' in a resurfaced recording.

The Indigenous academic and Voice architect made the inflammatory comments in 2017 with the audio shared on 2GB on Thursday.

'What fantasy world do they live in that would make them even ask the question?' she said.

'Of course Australia is racist. It's a horrible, racist country.'

2GB host Ben Fordham said she then went on to say in the recording: 'It's only racist if you're a person of colour. It's not racist if you're white.'

Professor Marcia Langton (pictured) is a member of the government's advisory groups on the Voice

The newly-unearthed comments comes after Prof Langton was this week forced to deny calling No voters 'racist and stupid' at a referendum event at Edith Cowan University in Perth on Sunday.

Instead, she clarified she 'was explaining how the No campaign is using fears and lies to frighten No voters into voting No'.

'The No campaign is claiming that this our proposition in the referendum will create apartheid and so it's very important to answer people's questions and explain exactly how this kind of the [campaign] works,' she said.

'I deny it absolutely. There is a recording of what I said at the Bunbury meeting. And what I said is very clear.'

Audio from the meeting reveals Prof Langton said: 'Every time the No cases raise their arguments, if you start pulling it apart, you get down to base racism - I'm sorry to say that's where it lands - or sheer stupidity.

'If you look at any reputable fact-checker, every one of them says the No case is substantially false, they are lying to you.'

On Thursday, Daily Mail Australia revealed Prof Langton sent a message to polarising politician Mark Latham telling him he 'deserved a slow, painful death' during a heated online exchange.

'You so deserve a slow, painful death and humiliating obituaries,' Professor Langton wrote about Mr Latham.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and former AFL player Michael Long walk to Parliament House at the completion of a 20 day long walk for the Yes campaign, in Canberra

The post was sent via X, formerly known as Twitter, on March 10, 2018, and Professor Langton's account has since been deleted.

Footage has also emerged of Prof Langton accusing 'hard No voters' of 'spewing racism'.

The video, aired on Sky News from a panel discussion at the University of Queensland in July, shows Prof Langton discussing a 'surge' in racism amid the Voice debate.

She said: 'The surge of racist nonsense is confined to a minority of Australians.

'Ordinary Australians are thinking, "yes, of course I'm voting for the Voice". And that would be say 48, 49 per cent.

'Then there's the hard No voters. I'm hoping they're about 20 per cent.

'And they're the ones who are spewing the racism.'
His family said he didn't have any venom in system

He is believed to have had a heart attack and died

A hero grandfather who grabbed a snake wrapped around his mate's ankle didn't have any of its venom in his system when he died, his family have revealed.

Donny Morrison, 68, died after the snake - believed to be an eastern brown - bit him after he pulled it off his friend at a rural Queensland school celebration.

Beloved grandfather Donald Morrison

Paramedics fought for 30 minutes to revive Mr Morrison before he went into cardiac arrest and passed away.

His devastated family released a statement about his death on Thursday.

'We have received preliminary findings from the coroner's office which confirm that there was no snake venom in Donny's system,' the statement read.

'This therefore rules out snakebite as a contributing factor or cause of death.

'It is believed that Donny may have had an underlying medical condition that he was unaware of.'

The exact cause of Mr Morrison's death remains under investigation.

Mr Morrison was with his wife Leanne and daughter Britt at Koumala State School's 100th anniversary on Saturday, at a local park 60km south of Mackay.

He spotted the snake coiling itself around the ankle of his friend, 65-year-old Lloyd Younger, and bravely leapt into action.

Mr Younger suffered a dry bite and was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital in a stable condition. He was released from hospital on Sunday.

Mr Morrison tragically died while attending Koumala State School's centennial celebrations on Saturday. Pictured are festivities earlier in the day

Mr Morrison's family thanked those who had provided assistance and asked for privacy while they grieved the loss of their loved one.

'We offer our heartfelt thanks to all first responders and the many members of our Koumala community who provided assistance on the night,' the statement said.

'These past few days have been exceptionally distressing for the family, and we kindly ask for privacy during this time to grieve our loss and bid farewell to Donny.'

His family previously described how happy Mr Morrison had been at the school celebration before the tragedy struck.

'We all enjoyed ourselves, especially Donny who was really happy to have caught up with so many old friends,' his daughter Megan Kerr said.

'We would like to thank everyone involved with the incident. People pulled together in an attempt to resuscitate Don but unfortunately were not successful.'

The family added that Mr Morrison had been a much-loved member of the Koumala community and thanked the school for organising the centenary event.

Mr Morrison was with his wife Leanne and daughter Britt at Koumala State School's 100th anniversary on Saturday, at a park 60km south of Mackay in central Queensland

'We are sorry that the incident lead to the event being shut down early,' they said.

'If you were involved directly in the emergency response please feel free to get in touch. Also please seek help if you feel you need to talk through the events that transpired as it was a confronting situation for all.'

One friend wrote: 'Beautiful gentleman and a friend to all who ever had the pleasure to know him. Sincerest condolences to his beautiful wife and family.'

Community leaders who attended the festivities earlier in the day have also paid tribute and expressed their condolences.
A far-Right terror group in Finland plotted to kill Prime Minister Sanna Marin and start a race war after they created firearms using 3D printers, a court has been told.

Four men are on trial in Lahti on charges linked to planning a terrorist act and firearms possession.

Police say the men were following 'accelerationism'  the idea that capitalism or processes branching out from it should be deepened or sped up to trigger radical change.

The idea was tied to a wave of hate killings in the US, including the Buffalo shooting in 2022, in which ten black people died.

The men allegedly created firearms using 3D printers. Raids on their properties revealed a list of targets, featuring members of parliament, minority groups and anti-fascist activists.

Two of the defendants openly discussed killing Sanna Marin at a Social Democratic Party event in Lahti in 2022. They shared information that she would be making an appearance on Telegram

Two of the defendants openly discussed killing Marin at a Social Democratic Party event in Lahti in 2022. They shared information that she would be making an appearance on Telegram.

Under questioning, one of the men said: 'The FGC-9 gun was within reach, and I could have reached Lahti market by car in less than ten minutes. At the same time, I talked about these things on Telegram, that were would be a theoretical possibility to attempt a political murder.'

The FGC-9 is a 3D-printable semiautomatic pistol calibre carbine.

The defendant argued they were not sincerely committed to a terrorist attack as they did not go through with the plan.

He described the chat as 'ordinary banter' about how easy it would be to carry out an attack on a Finnish head of state and said that they were simply blowing off steam and looking for extreme experiences.

One defendant described the chat between the two of them as 'ordinary banter' about how easy it would be to carry out an attack on a Finnish head of state and said that they were simply blowing off steam and looking for extreme experiences (File Photo)

One of the men is on trial for firearm offences and the other three are facing terrorism charges.

In the raids, officers also discovered the address of Maria Ohisalo, a former leader of the Green League party who served as interior minister between 2019 and 2021.

Asked about their targets, one defendant said they deemed them enemies of 'nationalists' and possible sources of information.

He said: 'I'm openly ethno-nationalist, I know what it leads to when there are too many ethnicities in the same space.

'Those ethnicities start to pursue their own interests as a group and that doesn't lead to anything good for the Finns. However, I had no plans to shoot people or anything.'

Other sites specified targets such as the offices of the Left Alliance socialist party, a book shop and vegan cafe run by volunteers, and an alternative nightclub in Tampere, a city in southern Finland.

Detective Inspector Tuomas Kuure told Finnish broadcaster YLE that terms linked with accelerationism such as 'race war' and 'incitement' were used by the suspects in their messages.
President Joe Biden made his first comments on his impeachment, telling a group of Democratic donors that Republicans 'want to impeach me because they want to shut down the government.'

Biden, speaking at a fundraising reception in McLean, Virginia, specifically mentioned conservative Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia and her interest in impeaching him since the day Republicans took control of the House of Representatives.

'Well, I tell you what, I dont know quite why, but they just knew they wanted to impeach me. And now, the best I can tell, they want to impeach me because they want to shut down the government,' he said.

'So look, look, I got a job to do. Everybody always asked about impeachment. I get up every day, not a joke, not focused on impeachment. Ive got a job to do. I've got to deal with the issues that affect the American people every single solitary day,' he noted.

It was his first time acknowledging he faces the possibility of being convicted and removed from office. His most extensive comments to date came behind-closed doors. No TV cameras or photographers were allowed inside the fundraiser, only a small group of print reporters.

The White House has doubled down on its defense of the president, blasting the impeachment inquiry as 'baseless,' setting up a war room to combat the investigation, and sending a memo to news organizations to encourage greater scrutiny of Republican motives.

President Joe Biden told Democratic donors Republicans were impeaching him to shut down the government

Aides insist Biden is focused on business as usual. On Thursday he'll travel to Maryland to make a speech about the economy.

But the impeachment inquiry was obviously on his mind when he spoke to a small group of supporters, who were there to donate to his re-election campaign, at the home of David Frederick and Sophie Lynn. Frederick is a partner in Kellogg, Huber, Hansen, Todd, Evans & Figel, a Washington law firm, and was the first Rhodes scholar from the University of Pittsburgh.

And the president has targeted Greene, a well-known, outspoken conservative and critic of his presidency, on previous occasions. He's said she ripped his infrastructure plan but took federal funds from it for her congressional district.

Greene, a strong ally of Donald Trump, had threatened to vote against the appropriations bills that fund the government unless Speaker Kevin McCarthy opened an impeachment inquiry into the president. Congress has until September 30th to pass the federal budget or the government shuts down.

She's claimed credit for pushing McCarthy to open the impeachment inquiry.

Biden told the room full of donors on Wednesday night that he 'has a job to do' before he moved on to a different subject.

His comments were his first since McCarthy announced the inquiry - the first step in the impeachment process - on Tuesday.

Republicans have been investigating Hunter Biden's foreign business dealings since they took control of the House in January. They are looking into whether Joe, who was vice president during the time period, personally benefited from his son's work and if the family used Joe Biden's official office for their personal gain.

President Biden has denied any involvement with his son's business affairs.

Earlier in the day, Jill Biden rescued her stony-faced husband from having to answer questions about impeachment at his first public appearance since McCarthy announced the potentially devastating inquiry.

The first lady leaned over to whisper to the president and touched his arm when reporters started shouting questions about the probe during a Cabinet room meeting to discuss Biden's Cancer Moonshot initiative.

Biden looked uncomfortable under the barrage of inquiries, stared at the ceiling, and made chewing motions with his mouth, but ultimately refused to talk as reporters were led out of the room.

His wife stepped in as the White House ramped up their war with Republicans in the investigation into foreign business deals by Biden's son Hunter.

The Cabinet meeting was on the Bidens' initiative 'to end cancer as we know it.'

Jill Biden praised her husband's work on the issue, telling him on Wednesday that: 'You did good things, Joe.'

Jill Biden reached out to get Joe Biden's attention when he was asked about the impeachment inquiry against him

The White House is all in on defending the president.

Press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Wednesday called the Republicans' impeachment probe a 'baseless inquiry that the House Republicans can't even really defend themselves.'

Jean-Pierre said that the elder Biden has done nothing wrong.

'Republicans in Congress, right they have spent all year investigating the president, that's what they've spent, and have turned up with no evidence that he did anything. I mean, that is what we heard over and over again, from their almost clear year-long investigation, and that's because the President didn't do anything wrong,' she said in her daily press briefing.

The administration is also going on the offensive to address specific charges against the president.

Earlier Wednesday, the White House said Biden was just calling to check in on Hunter when he was on calls with his son's business associates.

'This is part of the right-wing's misinformation machine to try to confuse people about what the truth is,' White House spokesperson for oversight and investigations Ian Sams told CNN on Wednesday morning.

'The truth is that the president, as he said publicly for years, calls his family every day to check in. He calls his son every day to check in. He calls his other family members to check in to see how they are doing. He loves them. They are a tight-knit family.'

Speaker Kevin McCarthy with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene on the House floor on January 6th

President Biden didn't answer questions on the impeachment inquiry in his first public appearance since the inquiry was announced

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre called the impeachment inquiry 'baseless' and said President Biden did nothing wrong

Hunter's former business partner Devon Archer told the House Oversight Committee in testimony this summer that Hunter had put his father on speakerphone during business meetings about 20 times.

At the time of Archer's closed-door testimony, Democrats in the room said Archer described the calls as personal.

'The witness indicated that Hunter spoke to his father every day, and approximately 20 times over the course of 10-year relationship, Hunter may have put his father on the phone with any number of different people, and they never once spoke about any business dealings,' Democratic Rep. Dan Goldman of New York said at the time.

'As he described it, it was all casual conversation, niceties, the weather, what's going on. There wasn't a single conversation about any of the business dealings that Hunter had,' Goldman noted.

But Republican Chairman James Comer of Kentucky said Archer testified that Joe Biden 'joined Hunter Biden's dinners with his foreign business associates in person or by speakerphone over 20 times' and was put on the phone to sell 'the brand.'

Comer said the testimony shows 'Joe Biden lied to the American people when he said he had no knowledge about his son's business dealings and was not involved. Joe Biden was 'the brand' that his son sold around the world to enrich the Biden family.'

The White House has accused Republicans of election-year politics with its impeachment inquiry.

'The president has been in politics for a long time. I think as he would say, he has seen a lot of malarkey along the way, but this might take the cake,' Sams told CNN. 'He's focused on issues that matter to the American people.'

Joe Biden with sons Hunter (left) and Beau (right) in January 2009 when he was inaugurated as vice president

White House spokesperson for oversight and investigations Ian Sams is leading the push back for the Biden administration on Republican investigations

Sams is White House point person on countering Republican accusations against the president and his family. He is part of a war room established in the White House counsel's office specifically to deal with GOP investigations.

He noted Biden, who was vice president at the time, was calling Hunter to check in because the family was also dealing with the illness of Beau Biden, the late son of the president. Beau Biden died in 2015 of brain cancer.

'He was checking in with Hunter during a particularly hard time, a time where the family was going through Hunter's brother Beau's illness. Of course the president checks in,' Sams said.

Hunter Biden has spoken about how he relapsed into his drug and alcohol addiction after his brother died. The Biden family later held an intervention to get him to do another stint in rehab.

It was during that intervention that Joe Biden told his son: 'I don't know what else to do. I'm so scared. Tell me what to do.'

Hunter Biden did get sober but his business dealings are being investigated by House Republicans. And the impeachment inquiry - the first step in the impeachment process - will investigate whether President Biden personally benefited from his son's work.

Biden has said he had nothing to do with Hunter's business deals.

Speaker McCarthy, under heavy pressure from the conservative wing of his party and facing threats to his speakership, declared on Tuesday the inquiry would begin.

'House Republicans have uncovered serious and credible allegations into President Biden's conduct,' McCarthy said. 'Taken together these allegations paint a picture of a culture of corruption.'

'These are allegations of abuse of power, obstruction and corruption. And they warrant further investigation by the House of Representatives. That's why today I am directing our House committee to open a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden,' he noted.

Speaker Kevin McCarthy, facing heavy pressure from the right wing of the Republican Party, launched an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden

Republicans have charged Biden and his family made millions off shell companies Hunter Biden formed when his father was vice president. Hunter had business deals with an energy company in the Ukraine, received a discounted stake in a private-equity firm in China, and did consulting for a Romanian real-estate magnate.

The president has denied any involvement in his son's business dealings. But Republicans claim at least a dozen Biden family members could be involved in a scheme to benefit financially from Biden's public office.

House investigators are expected to issue subpoenas for the bank records of the president and his family. The GOP also claim Biden sat in on at least 24 calls with Hunter's business partners and was referred to as 'the big guy' by Hunter's business associates. And they say Joe Biden used pseudonyms to discuss his activities related to Ukraine with his son Hunter during his time as vice president.

It's estimated Hunter raked in $40 million through 20 shell companies and fake accounts created while Joe Biden was vice president.
A voice message has surfaced from gang rapist Mohammad Skaf's brief love interest confessing her love for him - as the pair's sordid relationship breakdown is played out in public.

Alexandra Mastropetros, 27, said Skaf, 40, developed an 'obsession' with her after they met once at a beach near Rose Bay, in Sydney's eastern suburbs, in January this year, just 15 months after he was released from jail after serving a 22-year sentence for crimes which shocked Australia .

Ms Mastropetros claimed Skaf developed 'disturbing delusions' and bombarded her with emails and texts, detailing an intense and sexual relationship she claimed was entirely made-up.

A series of emails and texts shared with Daily Mail Australia showed the pair were not only in regular contact between January and April, but appeared to be in a loving and physical relationship, often saying 'I love you' to each other.

But the married Ms Mastropetros, who police say is associated with Sydney's notorious Alameddine family crime gang, has slammed the texts as false.

Similarly, Skaf said some of the explicit emails - including one that said 'I am having dreams of us having sex' - were not written by him.

Now, a voice message has emerged from Ms Mastropetros to Skaf - during which she can be heard saying 'I freaking love you'.

Skaf, 40, met Alexandra Mastropetros (pictured), 27, at a beach in Rose Bay

'Hi baby, salam alaikum and good morning,' she said.

'I miss you, I miss you and I freaking love you.'

'Ill be at your houseyoull be finished by two. OK, well, Ill be at your house by two.'

The voice message ended with her blowing a kiss.

Ms Mastropetros on Thursday acknowledged sending the voice message to Skaf - but said she was trying to placate him to get him onside.

She explained that she had planned to confront him with her husband and another friend to stop him from contacting her.

'I thought, I'm going to play the same game,' she said.

'As cliched as it sounds, I thought I'm going to sweet talk him to the point where he actually wants to meet up.'

The meeting never took place, she said, because she was scared to see him.

Skaf then filed an apprehended violence order against Ms Mastropetros in June, claiming he was stalked and harassed by her and one of her male friends.

Skaf is pictured on the day he was released from prison, following a 22-year sentence for a series of gang rapes

Alexandra Mastropetros, 27, is pictured with her husband, Ahmed. Skaf claimed she was not married when they met in January

Ms Mastropetros said she was the victim of a months-long harassment campaign, and the order should have been served against Skaf on her behalf instead of the other way around.

She texted Bankstown police with the messages she received from Skaf, but accused officers ignored her pleas for help because she is an associate of notorious gang family, the Alameddines.

The evidence Ms Mastropetros sent to police comprised a series of texts and emails that she said were sent from Skaf - after they met just once at the beach.

On Thursday morning, radio host Ray Hadley pointed out that Ms Mastropetros sent her evidence to 'MobiPOL', which is a shared smartphone used by any officers on shift - which means police may not have seen the texts.

Hadley then highlighted the fact that Ms Mastropetros is a convicted drug dealer and there was a warrant out for her arrest at the time, suggesting she may not have wanted to walk into a police station and make a complaint in person.

One emails was signed 'Mohamed Skaf' and read: 'I want more than friends I know you are married and I'm sorry for bothering you.

'All I can think about is your body and what I want to do to you, I am having dreams of us having sex and your body hasn't left my mind..I need you I want you please contact.'

Ms Mastropetros claimed Skaf sent her a series of messages after they met at the beach in February this year - he said the email, pictured, was fabricated

Texts between Mohammed Skaf and Alexandra Mastropetros are pictured. She says they were fabricated

READ MORE: Who are Mohammed and Bilal Skaf? Mohammed Skaf was one of gang of Lebanese-Australian youths led by his older brother Bilal who went on a rampage of pack rapes in Sydney's south-west in 2000. Advertisement

Ms Mastropetros said that was one of many unsolicited messages she received from Skaf, but he said the email was clearly false because his name was spelled wrong - 'I spell my name Mohammed, with a double m, not a single m as she spelt it,' he said.

He also said Ms Mastropetros was not married in January - despite her claims that she was - and insisted he would never have pursued a married woman.

This publication has seen about 70 screenshots of texts and emails between the pair, which appear to show the pair were in a loving and physical relationship - including selfies of Ms Mastropetros and in lingerie, and a video of her topless.

The texts appeared to show the pair often texted each other to say 'I love you' and 'I miss you', called each other 'baby', shared sexually explicit content, and even tried to apply for a rental house together.

On Wednesday, she conceded that 'many photos were taken', despite her insistence they met once, but maintained they were not in a relationship and all the messages were fabricated.

'That's not how I talk lol,' she said.

Ms Mastropetros was convicted of two drug supply charges, and a stalking charge in relation to Skaf, in Bankstown Local Court on September 7.

She said she didn't know she was supposed to be in court that day, and was convicted in her absence.

She will appear in court again for sentence on September 21.
The prime minister has urged Australians to step out and vote 'yes' on the last day of parliament before the nation goes to a referendum on an Indigenous voice.

Anthony Albanese joined Indigenous AFL legend Michael Long on the last leg of his long walk from Melbourne to the nation's capital to encourage Australians to vote 'yes' and enshrine an Indigenous voice into the constitution.

Mr Albanese said Long's efforts paralleled Wiradjuri man Jimmy Clements' 1927 walk from the Brungle Mission in NSW to the former parliament house to appear uninvited at the building's opening ceremony.

The prime minister has urged Australians to step out and vote 'yes' on the last day of parliament before the nation goes to a referendum on an Indigenous voice

'Police tried to remove Clements because he'd arrived after such a long walk from Tumut, dishevelled and barefoot,' he told reporters on Thursday.

'The crowd rose up and said, 'No, Indigenous people have a right to be here'.

'So I say, let us work together in dignity and unison. Any journey is of course about embracing something different.'

The former AFL player retraced the same route he took in 2004 when protesting then-prime minister John Howard's decision to disband the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission.

'(Mr Howard) has told Australians to 'maintain the rage' but this is not about rage, it's about love,' Mr Long told reporters.

'It's about it's about giving Indigenous people power over their destiny so that their culture can be a gift to this country.'

Meanwhile, the 'no' case will be seeking a boost with a keynote speech by an influential senator.

Opposition Indigenous Australians spokeswoman Jacinta Nampijinpa Price is expected to use her National Press Club address to outline an alternative approach to the voice being enshrined in the constitution.

Senator Price, a former deputy mayor of Alice Springs, is advocating recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the constitution and legislated local and regional voices.

Anthony Albanese has joined AFL legend Michael Long on the last leg of his long walk to Canberra

She argues putting an advisory body in the constitution gives three per cent of the population an 'extra say' on matters affecting all Australians, negating equality of citizenship.

And the $33 billion spent on programs to close the Indigenous wellbeing gap should be audited to ensure it is getting the biggest benefit, she says.

A bitter debate has raged in parliament in recent days over claims the 'no' campaign is using racism to sway voters.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers accused Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, who opposes the voice referendum, of seeking to 'drip more poison into the well' in order to get a political dividend.

Mr Dutton told parliament the prime minister's voice campaign was 'dividing families and our nation'.
The family of a father-of-one who was shot dead at work by a nazi flag-waving gunman have broken their silence on the 'horrible tragedy' that took place.

Terry Czernowski, 44, was killed after Lachlan Bowles gunned him down at Moylan Grain Silos at Kellerberrin, in Western Australia, at 8.40am on Thursday.

Bowles, dressed in camouflage, then fled in his car and evaded police for eight hours before he was cornered in a grain field and turned the gun on himself.

Mr Czernowski's family have now spoken out about the day after they are left to pick up the pieces and care for the single father's child.

'There has been a lot of speculation about what transpired on that fateful day, which we may never know the outcome,' the family said in a statement released via police on Wednesday.

Terry Czernowski's family have broken their silence since he was shot at work, saying that they may never know what led to the death of the 44-year-old

Lachlan Bowles, 25, went on a rampage in in Kellerberrin, a small town in Western Australia's Wheatbelt region, on Thursday morning which ended in a stand-off against police

'This horrible tragedy has had a huge impact on Terry's family and friends, which only time will heal.'

Bowles and Mr Czernowski had worked together at the silo before the shooting, and rumours are now swirling in the 900-strong town about what went wrong.

TIMELINE OF TERROR 8.40am: Lachlan Bowles shoots dead Terry Czernowski at Moylan Grain Silos 9.23am: Police warn residents to stay indoors 9.44am: Police say a man has 'discharged a firearm' 10.31am: Anyone in Kellerberrin and Bencubbin urged to stay indoors 2.10pm: Police locate Lachlan Bowles 4.30pm: Police confirm Bowles dead Advertisement

Mr Czernowski's family thanked Western Australia Police for their efforts in ending Bowles' siege, extending it to all that had reached out since.

'The family would like to sincerely thank those who have called, sent flowers and passed on their sympathies,' the statement read.

Bowles, a former volunteer ambulance officer, had been described as a 'model citizen' prior to the attack by those that knew him.

After shooting Mr Czernowski he had evaded police for more than eight hours before coming to a standoff in a grain field.

In his last moments Bowles asked police if he could call his mother, who he tearfully apologised to as he expressed his regrets and asked for forgiveness.

Heavily armed police tried to convince Bowles to lay down his firearm before the gunman turned the weapon on himself.

Bowles had been wearing a camouflage uniform and Swastika and waving a Nazi flag.

Bowles' and Mr Czernowski's boss, Corey Moylan, also spoke out following the incident, describing the men as part of his 'go team' of workers.

He remembered Mr Czernowski as a 'fantastic' guy who 'inadvertently made us laugh without even trying'.

'He was one of those fellas who just got on with things  it's just a huge shame,' he told ABC News on Wednesday.

The father-of-one had long service leave due this year and was planning to spend with his young daughter.

Mr Czernowski's co-workers who were there during the shooting tried to save him but he died before they could get him to hospital

Owner of Moylan Grain Silos Corey Moylan says both men were crucial members of their tight-knit team

Mr Moylan added it's 'hard to resent' Bowles after working together for some four years.

'This is with the utmost respect to both families involved; it's pretty hard to resent the guy that caused this huge event,' Mr Moylan said.

The distraught business owner described how other workers rushed to help Mr Czernowski after the shooting.

'They chucked Terry in the ute to try and get him to hospital, that's going to be traumatic for the fellas involved for years to come,' he said.

'So for them to take the initiative and do that  they're going to be lifelong friends but  they've got a long road ahead of them for what they've seen.'

A local told Daily Mail Australia that Bowles went to his workplace at Moylan Grain Silos in Kellerberrin and 'shot someone about 25 times'.

'My mates work down the street and heard a bunch of gun shots and then the town was crawling with police,' he said.

Police locked down the area and helicopters were ordered not to fly overhead for fears they could get shot down - and police said at least one car was shot at as Bowles fled.

Bowles' death is expected to be treated as a death in police presence, and if this is the case the matter is subject to a coronial inquiry.

Police have said that the incident will be investigated by their internal affairs unit and homicide squad, as per standard procedures.

Bowles fled to a grain paddock after an hours-long chase with police, where he asked to call his mum before turning the gun on himself

Bowles shot himself during police negotiations (above) after evading their capture for more than eight hours
France's promise to help Britain stop illegal migrant crossings has been exposed as a farce by a mid-Channel sea conversation between the two nation's patrol ships.

A maritime recording has revealed a French Navy vessel instructing a British Border Force cutter to confirm when it 'completed the boarding' of migrants from their dinghy.

The audio of the formal handover 12 miles off the Kent coast was picked up on a public radio channel last Thursday morning by a British fisherman who passed it to the Mail.

In language echoing the terminology of a commercial airline flight, the French Navy captain escorting the migrant dinghy from the north French coast asks Border Force cutter Hurricane: 'Could you just confirm to me that you have finished boarding the dinghy?'

The officer of Hurricane responds: 'Everyone is on board. Yes I can confirm that boarding is complete.'

In language echoing the terminology of a commercial airline flight, the French Navy captain asks the Border Force cutter Hurricane if they have finished boarding migrants from a dinghy (Pictured: Stock image of French Navy vessel)

The French captain of Esvagt Charlie, a Danish vessel leased to the French government to monitor migrant crossings, concludes: 'Thank you very much. I will pass this back to my watch... good, see you next time, sir.'

The recording has sparked a row as Channel fishermen who heard it told the Mail: 'This sounds more like an EasyJet flight. Boarding completed is a phrase normally used between staff on a commercial flight or ferry crossing.'

One harbour worker in Dover added: 'It is all so chummy. The French Navy is passing these people like parcels to the British border force who, after all, are meant to be protecting our shores from strangers as their title says.'

A Home Office spokesman said: 'Border professionals operating in difficult environments use established terminology while conducting life-saving operations - as is the case here.

'Our priority is to stop the boats, and our Small Boats Operational Command is working alongside our French partners and other agencies to save lives and disrupt the people smugglers.'

Britain is paying nearly half a billion pounds over the next three years to the French to prevent small boats from crossing the Channel

The Mail has also obtained recordings of an incident on Monday when the French Navy warship Arm, also on Channel rescue duties, told a number of huge cargo vessels sailing under international flags to alter course in the world's busy shipping lane to allow a migrant boat safely through from French to British waters for boarding by Border Force.

The Mail has three maritime recordings of the almost identical messages when the French warship tells the container ships and oil tankers registered in the Marshall Islands, Norway, the UK and Panama to move out of the way. One radio message says: 'Good morning. This is French warship Arm calling you. We are conducting (migrant) safety operations. In order to avoid any collisions please alter your course 20 degrees to the port side.'

A seasoned fisherman sailing out of the Kent coast monitored the result of the French warship Arm's demand for ships to divert.

He said: 'These big ships take miles to change course in the narrowest and busiest part of the Channel. They are being asked to take risks to other seagoers that are not acceptable.

'In the middle of the Monday mayhem was a small French fishing boat called Brise Lame 11. It must have been terrifying for the crew as the huge boats suddenly changed course around them. They were sitting ducks.'

A maritime recording has revealed a French Navy vessel instructing a British Border Force cutter to confirm when it 'completed the boarding' of migrants from their dinghy

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in a flagship Tory policy has pledged to 'stop the boats'

Last year 45,000 people arrived on traffickers' boats across the Channel. The number in 2023 so far is almost 21,000 people in 436 boats.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in a flagship Tory policy has pledged to 'stop the boats'.

His office this week said: 'In general terms we are working closely with our French counterparts.

'This year alone, more than 15,000 Channel migrants have been prevented from reaching the UK.'

Britain is paying nearly half a billion pounds over the next three years to the French to prevent small boats from crossing the Channel.

Tory backbencher Natalie Elphicke, MP for Dover, has said that for the enormous payment Mr Sunak must demand France stop the boats from leaving their shores.

Last week Graeme Biggar, the National Crime Agency's director general, said EU safety laws could be used to seize the small boats used by people smugglers before they leave French shores.
A forgotten 220-year-old sketch drawn by John Constable found tucked away in an old suitcase during a house clearance could fetch more than 3,000 when it goes under the hammer.

The pencil drawing was created by the artist of Dover in Kent including the castle on top of the iconic White Cliffs.

It is one of a series of sketches Constable made in April 1803 when he spent almost a month on board the Coutts as the ship worked its way along the coast from London to Deal before departing for China.

It was found during a house clearance in Leeds and the late owners of the property had seemingly failed to recognise that their unsigned picture was a genuine long-lost Constable.

Dominic Cox of auctioneers David Duggleby, based in Scarborough, said: 'Thanks to a letter that Constable sent to a friend we know that the sketch was done on the last day of the trip.

Dominic Cox of auctioneers David Duggleby, based in Scarborough, pictured

The forgotten 220-year-old sketch drawn by John Constable found tucked away in an old suitcase

'He wrote "I came on shore at Deal, walked to Dover (about one and a half hours) and the next day returned to London".

'It's thought that Constable made as many as 130 drawings on the voyage but the whereabouts of less than 50 are known today.

'Actually, it was only by the greatest good fortune that any of them survived.

'Constable had to get off the ship in a hurry when the decision to depart for China was taken and he left his carefully wrapped parcel of drawings behind. Fortunately they were recovered before they ended up in the Far East.'

He added: 'The sketch is a detailed view across the water of Dover harbour towards the waterfront buildings, with the Castle high above the town and the cliffs stretching away into the distance. The location is identified at the bottom right and the year is lightly marked in the sky top right.

'The backing of the framed drawing bears the label of The Little Gallery of Kensington Church Walk in London, a gallery that was in business in the early 1970s and specialised in the sketches and drawings of big name artists that were far more readily available at that period than they are today.

It is one of a series of sketches Constable made in April 1803 when he spent almost a month on board the Coutts

'Their label is inscribed in ink 'John Constable (1776-1837), Dover, circa 1803, pencil'.

'The glass was smashed when the drawing was found in the suitcase during the house clearance so the drawing was removed from the frame whilst repairs were made and it was then discovered that the back of the drawing itself is inscribed J Constable.'

The piece will go up for auction this Friday at David Duggleby in Scarborough.

The pre-sale estimate for the Dover sketch is between 2,000 and 3,000.
No campaigner and Opposition Indigenous affairs spokeswoman Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has taken aim at Anthony Albanese's claims the Voice is simply an advisory body.

During a speech to the national press club, the Country Liberal Party senator argued that none of the words 'advice', 'advise' or 'advisory' appear in the proposed change to the constitution. Instead, the word used is 'representations'.

'Nowhere in the question that will be put to Australians or in the proposed chapter on which we are voting do the words 'advice', 'advise' or 'advisory' appear,' Senator Nampijinpa Price said.

'If the Prime Minister truly intended for this body to be a simple advisory body ... then it would have been stipulated in the proposed chapter.

'You see, words matter. Words proposed for amendment of our nation's Constitution matter a lot.'

Senator Nampijinpa Price also lashed accusations the No campaign is 'sowing fear' about the Voice, arguing their concerns stem from comments made by the government's own hand-picked advisors.

She singled out comments made by Yes campaigners Teela Reid and Thomas Mayo about how the Voice would work.

Ms Price quoted comments by Indigenous lawyer Teela Reid during her speech to the National Press Club on Thursday

'What we do know is that many of the most senior advocates of the Voice have very different views than that of the Government.

'No matter what the Government, the advocates, and the activists say about what the Voice will or won't do, the fact is they don't know,' Ms Price said.

'They don't know who will be on the Voice. They don't know what it will choose to make representations on.

'They talk about it as the first step toward establishing treaty, reparations, compensation, and a mechanism to punish politicians, presumably this means politicians like me who are not afraid to stand up to them.'

READ MORE: Senator's number distributed by critics online Advertisement

Ms Nampijinpa Price referenced Ms Reid's criticism of statements made by Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney that a Voice wouldn't be interested in changing the date of Australia Day.

Ms Reid said: 'It might be the Australian Government's preference to keep things like Australia Day but trying to limit the scope of what the people can advocate for to change is just stupid.

'There has been no shortage of false claims that it is the No campaigners who are fear mongering over the scope of the Voice. But the reality is our concerns come from the Voice advocates themselves.'

Ms Nampijinpa Price also questioned the government's repeated assurances the Voice will only care about health, education, employment and housing.

She described those assertions as 'misleading conjecture', again looping back to her belief that the government simply cannot know.

'The Government have repeatedly promised equal representation, gender balance, and youth representation. But these are not promises the Government can make.'

Wording of the Voice question every Australian will be asked, and the constitutional change Referendum question: A Proposed Law: to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. Do you approve this proposed alteration? Relevant change to the constitution: Chapter IX Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, 129 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice In recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of Australia: there shall be a body, to be called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice; the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice may make representations to the Parliament and the Executive Government of the Commonwealth on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; the Parliament shall, subject to this Constitution, have power to make laws with respect to matters relating to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice, including its composition, functions, powers and procedures. Advertisement

She believes the money which would be poured into the advisory body would be better spent going directly to shovel-ready projects which will immediately make a difference in the community.

The Country Liberal Senator said she has been called a 'sell out' and subjected to racial abuse and threats of violence simply because she 'wants to stop kids from being abused'.

'Because I want to stop women and men from being killed. The truth is for all the moral posturing and virtue signalling about truth telling, there is no genuine appetite in Canberra to tell the truth or to hear the truth.'

Ms Nampjinpa Price said the campaign for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament is underpinned by a 'lie... that Indigenous Australians do not have a Voice'.

'We have been told by the Indigenous Minister for Indigenous Australians that Indigenous people do not get a say on policies or the decisions being made on our behalf.

Senator Nampijinpa Price lashed accusations her No campaign to the Indigenous Voice is 'sowing fear', arguing concerns stem from comments made by hand-picked government advisors

After years of doing things 'for' Aboriginal people, often with the best of intentions, the PM said a Voice to Parliament would allow Indigenous people to take the front seat on matters crucial to them

'I am one of 11 Indigenous voices currently in parliament... The patronising suggestion that we cannot focus our efforts on improving the lives of marginalised Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders because we are looking after constituents should be rejected resolutely.'

Ms Nampijinpa's parents Bess and David, along with her husband Colin, were in the crowd watching on, as were some of her colleagues.

'My hope is that, after October 14, after defeating this voice of division, we can bring accountability to existing structures, and we can get away from assuming inner-city activists speak for all Aboriginals, and back to focusing on the real issues: education, employment, economic participation and safety from violence and sexual assault.'

After years of doing things 'for' Aboriginal people, often with the best of intentions, the PM said a Voice to Parliament would allow Indigenous people to take the front seat on matters crucial to them.

But Ms Nampijinpa Price expressed concerns about the language used by some of the government's hand-picked advisors, including Professor Marcia Langton.

Daily Mail Australia revealed an unearthed comment Professor Langton made wishing a 'slow, painful death' on politician Mark Latham, after several videos emerged of her discussing racism in Australia.

In one article, Professor Langton described Ms Nampijinpa Price and her mother, Bess, as 'coloured help' for conservatives in 'rescuing the racist image of [their] outfits'.

Elsewhere, she accused hard No voters of 'spewing racism'.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese argues the Voice is a simple proposition

Ms Nampijinpa Price said it is 'backwards, neocolonial, racial stereotyping' to suggest all Indigenous Australians should think the same and support the same policies.

'No matter what the outcome is on October 14, it is imperative that we examine the failures of our past in order to understand how to do better. Our nation's rule book belongs to every Australian. And it is not a document to be taken for granted or to be jeopardised for the sake of a vibe.

'To undertake such a significant amendment, the Prime Minister owes the Australian people a clear, concise, realistic demonstration of how his Voice will deliver the outcomes that all good Australians want for our marginalised.'

Ms Nampijinpa Price previously laid out her concerns in an interview with Daily Mail Australia.

When Minister for Indigenous Affairs Linda Burney insisted early in the debate matters as close to home for Aboriginal people as Australia Day wouldn't be in the remit of the Voice, Ms Nampijinpa Price had her doubts.

'She cannot say that,' Ms Nampijinpa Price said.

'Everything is in play. Unless there is a specific list that is pre-determined by parliament that are no-go areas, right now nothing is off the table.'

But there is also a fear that well-meaning politicians may not know the weight of their words when they make references to an advisory body which is 'culturally informed'.

'There is no real detail about what being culturally informed actually looks like,' Ms Nampijinpa Price warned.

'There are elements of traditional culture that don't recognise equality between men and women.

'When it comes to decision-making, we're talking about a patriarchal society here in a lot of instances.'
It was delivered to a property near Tooborac in Victoria

The consignment was first detected in Los Angeles in July

Police have thwarted an attempt to get a 312kg haul of liquid methamphetamine, disguised as vegetable oil, into Australians' hands.

The mammoth consignment was first detected at Los Angeles International Airport in July, when US Homeland Security special agents and border protection officers found the drugs labelled as ''vegetable fluid oil' hidden inside two black drums.

The discovery set a mission dubbed Operation Tallow into motion, with Australian police working with US authorities to trace the drugs as they made their way to Victoria.

The consignment was held in storage for a fortnight when it landed on Australian shores.

On September 5, it was delivered to a vacant rural property near Tooborac about 100km north of Melbourne, the Australian Federal Police said.

Police have thwarted an attempt to get a 312kg haul of liquid methamphetamine, disguised as vegetable oil, into Australian hands

When nobody came to pick up the haul, investigators raided properties at Melbourne and Brisbane and interviewed a number of people.

However, nobody has been charged over the consignment.

Officers seized the drugs and federal police had no intelligence to determine whether the haul was intended to be moved to another location.

Investigators on Thursday appealed for anyone with information about the consignment to come forward.

'We are certain there are people in Australia who know something about this importation, or may have seen suspicious activity in the vicinity of Tooborac during the past few weeks,' AFP Detective Superintendent Kristie Cressy said.

The consignment was first detected at Los Angeles International Airport in July. Australian and US authorities worked together to trace the drugs

The drugs were delivered to a vacant rural property near Tooborac in Victoria but nobody came to pick up the haul

US Homeland Security would continue to work with the AFP to track down who was responsible for the smuggled methamphetamine, regional attache Ernest Verina said.

'Criminal organisations that display such a wilful disregard to our community's safety to sell this deadly poison, must be held fully accountable,' he said.

Investigators will test the drugs further to determine their purity.
Keir Starmer has said small boats people smugglers should be treated 'like terrorists' as he unveils Labour's new migration plans.

The Labour leader promised he will deal with 'the evil criminal gangs making a mockery of us all' if he were to win the election next year.

'We rightly talk about the importance of climate change, terrorism and hostile foreign powers when it comes to our national security,' he told The Sun.

'But we now need to put dealing with the threat of people smugglers on the same footing.'

He also said that he wants to set up a new Cross-Border Police force which has powers to swoop on people smugglers in whichever European country they operate.

The Labour leader promised he will deal with 'the evil criminal gangs making a mockery of us all'

In addition, Starmer said he would change the law so that people smugglers can be detained on the same basis as terror suspects.

Deepening intelligence ties with Europe as part of a new post-Brexit security pact and strengthening powers to restrict the movement of those suspected of organised immigration crime would also form part of the plan.

The Labour leader added: 'The first job of any government is national security - protecting the British people from threats that come from here and overseas.

READ MORE: Labour is ready to open the door to the EU's asylum seekers in exchange for a new borders deal with Brussels Advertisement

'The Government's failure to tackle the criminal smuggling gangs orchestrating boat crossings is now so profound that I believe it needs to be considered on a par with the other three big security threats we face: climate change, hostile foreign powers and terrorism.'

As part of its plans, Labour says it would work to reach a new agreement to share real-time intelligence with the EU similar to the Schengen Information System II, a database of terror suspects and immigration offenders which the UK had automatic access to before Brexit.

The plan is intended to deter Channel crossings by sending some asylum seekers arriving in Britain to the nation or another 'safe third country', but critics have branded it unworkable.

Sir Keir is now seeking to emphasise his credentials as former director of public prosecutions during a visit to The Hague with shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper this week.

Taking a hard-line stance on immigration crime will be seen as important to convince swing voters that Labour can be trusted to stem the number of Channel crossings, which has passed 23,000 in 2023, in the run-up to a general election expected next year.

A new gangway ramp is moved into position by a crane on one of the entrances to the Bibby Stockholm immigration barge

This was emphasised when he said: 'These criminal smuggling gangs are growing fat on the Government's failures, while the Tories ramp up empty rhetoric around illegal immigration for cheap headlines.'

Sir Keir's meeting with Europol officials at The Hague comes ahead of a trip to Montreal, Canada, for a summit of 'progressive' politicians.

Reports suggest he is also set to be hosted by French president Emmanuel Macron in Paris next week.

The Labour leader has met several European leaders during his tenure, including German chancellor Olaf Scholz, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and then-Irish premier Micheal Martin.

He could also be eyeing a meeting in the White House with US president Joe Biden in the coming months, whose 'Bidenomics' and landmark green subsidy push has attracted admiration from the Opposition.

A Tory spokesman said Sir Keir was 'opening the door to voluntarily taking even more illegal migrants from the EU'.

'Sir Keir belongs to the same failed politics that won't take the necessary long-term decisions to tackle this issue. He clearly doesn't care about illegal immigration and is trying to take the easy way out. Fundamentally his ideas would do nothing but weaken our tough measures,' he said.

The provisional total of Channel crossings for the year so far is still lower than this time last year, when around 27,000 had already been recorded.

But more than 3,000 have crossed since the start of September, compared to around 2,600 for the first 10 days of the same month in 2022.
Millions of Aussies have been told to expect more pain at the bowser this month as a grim new record was set for the price of petrol in Sydney.

The price of a litre of regular unleaded ballooned to $2.20 in the Harbour City on Thursday, breaking a previous record of $2.18 in June last year.

It comes as the national average spends a fourth week in a row at more than $2 a litre, the Australian Institute of Petroleum reports.

NRMA spokesman Peter Khoury told Daily Mail Australia that there could be more pain on the horizon for motorists.

'There's nothing we've seen that in the short term, the circumstances that led to these prices are going to change,' he said.

'There's nothing to suggest it's going to get better. We've not seeing anything that says [petrol prices] will improve.'

The price of a litre of regular unleaded ballooned to $2.20 in the Harbour City on Thursday, breaking a previous record of $2.18 in June last year (pictured, a woman fills up in Sydney)

NRMA spokesman Peter Khoury (pictured) said petrol was costing Aussies more because countries like Saudi Arabia and Russia were slowing oil production to create more profits

Mr Khoury said petrol was costing Aussies more because countries like Saudi Arabia and Russia were slowing oil production in a push to create more profits.

'They are cutting production levels by however many millions of barrels a day, which is having an immediate effect in Australia,' he said.

'How long they can afford to do that is yet to be seen.'

Mr Khoury said every capital city in Australia has a petrol price cycle and that Sydney was currently at the high point of its cycle.

He suspects prices in Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth will soon follow suit.

'It's really frustrating for drivers to be exposed to these types of prices,' he said.

'The reality is everything is more expensive because petrol is more expensive. Even if you don't have a car, you'll be paying for it in the supermarket aisles.'

The national average has spent a fourth week in a row at more than $2 a litre, the Australian Institute of Petroleum reports

Mr Khoury said every capital city in Australia has a petrol price cycle and that Sydney was currently at the high point of its cycle - with petrol now costing $2.20 a litre

The NRMA spokesman said that while Aussies could do little about the global factors drivers needed to be smart when filling up.

'Your always going to find petrol stations that are cheaper than others,' he said.

The NRMA also recommends drivers refrain from any heavy breaking or fast acceleration and remove any extra weight from their car.

Experts say the high price of petrol is a combination of a weak Australian dollar, production cuts by oil-rich countries and increased demand.

There are also concerns the recent floods in Libya will also push up prices.
The High Court has ruled that it was illegal

An illegally sacked Qantas worker has revealed that 1,700 staffers were told they'd be losing their jobs over the PA system in the break room.

Don Dixon, a former ramp supervisor, recalled the moment when he found out he'd lose his job during an interview on A Current Affair on Wednesday night.

Mr Dixon had nothing but love for the company he'd spent more than 20 years working for, until new management came in.

'I absolutely loved Qantas. It was a fantastic company to work for until Joyce took over,' Mr Dixon told ACA Host Allison Langdon.

The interview came hours after Australia's High Court ruled that the once-loved airline had illegally sacked employees during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Former Qantas ramp supervisor Don Dixon told A Current Affair that almost 1,700 workers told they were going to be sacked over the loud speaker in the lunch room

The Australian High Court found that the airliner had illegally terminated the jobs in the Covid-19 pandemic on Wednesday (pictured: former-CEO Alan Joyce)

Workers in the lunch room at the time of the announcement were told that they would have three months until they were out of the job, according to Mr Dixon.

'They could have mailed something, but I don't think they would have paid for the stamp,' Mr Dixon said.

'Over the loudspeaker, in the lunch room, we were all together. It was just a brutal moment.'

Mr Dixon, a union delegate, said on Wednesday that it was the first day that he had heard his colleagues happy since their sacking.

'We were a small part of history today  we won  we did it,' he said.

READ MORE: Qantas' nightmare week Qantas offers a groveling apology amid numerous scandals. Advertisement

The monumental move by Qantas to let go 1,683 of its staffers during the pandemic was one of the largest sackings in Australian corporate history.

Lifetime employees of the airliner had struggled to find work after the move, as they had a very specific skillset which didn't translate to other careers well.

'It's not as if every company in Australia has a role for washed-up baggage handlers and cleaners,' Mr Dixon continued.

Qantas' attempt to immediately appeal the unanimous High Court ruling was unsuccessful.

'The outsourcing decision was "adverse action" within the meaning of the Fair Work Act 2009 because it altered the position of the affected employees of Qantas and (its subsidiary) Qantas Ground Services to their prejudice,' the majority judgment by the High Court read.

The Albanese government celebrated the end of the two-year legal battle between the Transport Workers Union and airliner.

Workplace Relations Minister Tony Burke argued against Qantas' appeal and after it was rejected followed up with an attack on the Coalition during question time.

'We welcome today that justice has been given for those workers after experiencing horrific treatment from a company that those opposite made excuses for,' Mr Burke said.

Mr Dixon spoke outside of the High Court in Canberra on Wednesday as they ruled on the case

The national secretary of the Transport Workers Union, Michael Kaine, called for Qantas to apologise after the court ruled in their favour.

'This has been a spiteful corporate dictatorship, and the board has been right behind Alan Joyce  every step of the way,' he said.

'There are serious consequences that should flow from this. Richard Goyder and the board should go.

'But their last act before they walk out the door should be to rip away from Alan Joyce, the obscene bonuses that he has taken as these families suffer. The bonuses have to go, the board has to go.'

Leading up to the decision by the court Mr Joyce announced his early retirement, which was brought forward by two months amidst numerous scandals.

Mr Joyce had served as chief executive for 15 years and it is expected that Qantas will give him a 'golden handshake' of $24 million in a final cash and share payout.

During the trial Qantas had argued that they could not have breached the workplace rights of employees because they did not have the right to take protected industrial action at the time.

A spokesperson acknowledged the court's ruling however, and offered an apology for the person impact of their decision to get rid of staff.

'The Federal Court originally found that while there were valid and lawful commercial reasons for the outsourcing, it could not rule out that Qantas also had an unlawful reason  namely, avoiding future industrial action,' they said in a statement issued after the ruling,' the spokesperson said in a statement.

Qantas is expected to farewell Mr Joyce with a ' golden handshake ' of $24 million in a final cash and share payout as he departs the company after 15 years

'The High Court has now effectively upheld this interpretation.'

Affected employees worked in ten airports across Australia, but the court stopped short of forcing Qantas to reinstate them.

The former employees are now seeking compensation over the decision, but their union did not reveal any specific figures as of yet.

'(The workers) had jobs ripped away from them illegally. They're entitled to still be in their positions, and they need to be compensated for that,' a lawyer working for the union said.

'It is important that there is a clear signal sent to employers in the future that this type of conduct should not occur.'

Qantas had previously used the pandemic as justification for their move to let go of staff in August 2020.

'The likelihood of a years-long crisis led Qantas to restructure its business to improve its ability to survive and ultimately recover,' they said.

'As we have said from the beginning, we deeply regret the personal impact the outsourcing decision had on all those affected and we sincerely apologise for that.'
Jacinta Nampijinpa Price's personal mobile number has been distributed on Twitter, prompting Yes voters to bombard her with nasty messages.

The leading No campaigner and Country Liberal senator has been inundated with texts from trolls, at a time when tensions over the Voice to Parliament are at an all time high.

She told the National Press Club on Thursday she'd been bombarded with 'the most revolting messages, voicemail messages that you can think of'.

'From the moment the referendum was launched by our prime minister, our nation has been divided. We have seen ugliness on display from right across the board.

'I know myself, Warren Mundine, have been the subject of horrible racial vilification... I am no stranger to horrible, horrible abuse.

'I condemn all kinds of horrible behaviour that has come out as a result of this.'

Jacinta Nampijinpa Price's personal mobile number has been distributed on Twitter , prompting Yes voters to bombard her with nasty messages

Her Senate colleague James Paterson slammed the tactics on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Thursday morning.

He said: 'Leaking private contact info of a prominent Indigenous woman during a divisive referendum debate is irresponsible & dangerous.

'The Yes campaign must tell their supporters to stop sharing [Senator Price's] phone no. & condemn the horrific abuse she has received.'

Online, trolls have boasted about contacting her on her personal number.

Others argued Ms Nampijinpa Price's contact details were readily available on a separate website before they were distributed via X.

The backlash appeared to be spurred on after thousands of Australians received an unsolicited text message urging them to vote No to the Voice.

The messages read: 'Hi, it's Jacinta Price, The Referendum is on 14 Oct. This Voice is risky, unknown and divisive. Don't know? Say no.'

Ms Nampijinpa Price revealed on Sky on Wednesday night she's been receiving death threats over her public stance on the Voice.

The text message urged recipients to vote no in the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum

'I have had a barrage of really horrible messages today calling me a c**t and a b-word and all kinds of stuff left on my phone,' Ms Nampijinpa Price said.

'But it says more about who they are - not me.

'I carry the target around on my back, because they need me to. Because if I don't well who else is going to. People might be scared that they might be called racist -well I'm copping death threats.'

On Thursday, Ms Nampijinpa Price fronted the National Press Club to deliver an empassioned speech about her vision for Australia after the referendum.

She said she has been called a 'sell out' and subjected to racial abuse and threats of violence simply because she 'wants to stop kids from being abused'.

'Because I want to stop women and men from being killed. The truth is for all the moral posturing and virtue signalling about truth telling, there is no genuine appetite in Canberra to tell the truth or to hear the truth.'
A tourist returning from Bali has triggered a health alert in Western Australia after officials discovered the traveller had visited a hotel and shops while infected with measles.

The Department of Health issued a statewide alert on Wednesday after the tourist, who has not been named, was admitted to a Perth hospital with the highly infectious disease.

Health officials are now scrambling to track down anyone potentially exposed after it was revealed the tourist spent time in the Perth and Midwest regions while infectious.

An alert has been issued by health officials after a tourist who was infected with measles, flew back to Western Australia and visited several locations around Perth, before the traverler was admitted to hospital

Acting director of communicable diseases Jelena Maticevic said public health staff were contacting people who might be exposed.

'Measles is a highly contagious viral illness and anyone who has had a potential exposure to measles and who develops symptoms of measles should see a doctor,' Dr Maticevic said.

A list of exposure sites was released by the department on Wednesday, with visitors urged to monitor for symptoms despite there being no 'ongoing risk' at the locations.

The locations listed by the Department of Health include the Royal Mail Hotel on Main Street at Meekatharra between 5.45pm and 8pm on September 3.

Spud shed on the Albany Highway at Kelmscott between 12.15pm and 1.15pm and Bunnings at Armadale on the corner of Ranford and Armadale roads between 12.15pm and 1.30pm on September 11.

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness spread by tiny droplets released when infected people cough and sneeze, with early symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose and sore eyes.

That is usually followed by a red non-itchy rash three or four days later that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Symptoms typically show within seven to 18 days after exposure.

Authorities are scrambling to track down anyone who may have been infected by the disease after the tourist went to several places, including a Bunnings

The traveler who was infected with the disease arrived in Perth after a visit to Bali (pictured), Indonesia, before the tourist visited several shops and a hotel

While high vaccine coverage helped eliminate measles in Australia 25 years ago, health officials warned small outbreaks could still occur - usually sparked by overseas travellers returning home.

Numerous countries are currently experiencing outbreaks of the measles, with travellers who do not have immunity at risk of infection while overseas and potentially returning home with it.

In July, the NSW government issued a public health alert after a tourist returning from overseas visited several locations in Sydney, including Rose Bay and Randwick, while infected.

Every measles case is treated as a potential public health emergency by health officials nationwide because of the risk the illness could spread locally and the potentially severe nature of the disease.

In most states, anyone born after 1965 who does not have evidence of receiving two doses in the past and is over 16 can access government-funded measles vaccine from their GP or at pharmacies.
Australia's banks could soon start 'cash rationing' at ATMs, a finance expert predicts - a move that could lead to customers being banned from withdrawing banknotes from other institutions.

A Reserve Bank study found the big banks are increasingly moving away from cash, with just 16 per cent of in-person transactions in Australia done with cash in 2022.

Macquarie Bank this week announced it would stop offering physical withdrawals at its branches from January 2024. It comes shortly after ANZ banned cash withdrawals from tellers at most branches earlier this year.

Finance expert Sarah Wells on Thursday told Daily Mail Australia that banks could soon introduce 'cash rationing' because of the lower demand for banknotes.

Cash rationing is where banks only hold limited amounts of physical money in their ATMs.

Ms Wells predicted that this could lead to the introduction of limits for ATM withdrawals. She suggested that customers could even be restricted from withdrawing funds from automatic teller machines other banks operated.

Finance expert Sarah Wells predicted cash rationing would occur at ATMs, as the banks increasingly phased out teller cash transactions

'There is the possibility that as we reduce the demand for cash, or reduce the availability of cash, then there's going to be limited amounts of actual, physical cash held,' Ms Wells said.

READ MORE: Record-high immigration fuels housing affordability crisis Advertisement

She said consumers could soon be restricted to only withdrawing cash from machines their bank owned.

'If there's not as much cash, it could be the possibility that you might be only able to take out a certain amount, and then they prioritise their customers over other customers accessing their ATM.'

Peter Tulip, who was a senior research manager with the Reserve Bank from 2011 to 2020, said ING's online-only approach to banking in Australia with no branches was likely to become much more common, even if banknotes still existed.

'It's going to be weird for a bank not to do any cash transactions. That was one of their main functions,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

'The trend is away from cash - lots of these financial transactions are all moving to the web.

'There are certainly financial institutions that are entirely online, and lots of our transactions no longer require any face-to-face interaction with a bank employee.'

Ms Wells is predicting the country's major banks will have gone cashless by 2026.

'We're well on our way there,' she said.

She predicted the federal government would have to step in and allow Australia Post to act as a bank that allowed its tellers to hand over cash.

Australia's banks could start 'cash rationing' at their ATMs so the small minority of customers who still use banknotes are able to access their money, a finance expert says.

This would see the postal service act like a government-owned bank, as the Commonwealth Bank was from 1911 to 1991, until it was gradually privatised.

Elderly victims of scams and the inability of domestic violence victims to escape abuse without their spouse tracking them down highlighted the flaws of a cashless society, she said.

'It will take a media story for a woman that's trying to leave a bad situation and can't do anything because it all has to be done online,' Ms Wells said.

'It will take a horrific story like that or an older person that experiences the loss of their entire savings because they've been forced into an online system.

'You have to have an option available or Australia Post step in - there has to be something available for people if they need access to cash.'

Macquarie - Australia's fifth biggest authorised deposit taker after the Commonwealth, Westpac, NAB and ANZ - has announced that from January to November next year, it would be 'phasing out our cash and cheque services across all Macquarie banking and wealth management products'.

There are predictions Australia could go cashless as soon as 2026 - or 57 years after the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney installed the nation's first ATM (pictured is an early Westpac ATM at Sydney's Martin Place in 1981)

The Commonwealth Bank and ANZ have stopped cash withdrawals at some of their inner-city branches, but Macquarie is the first big player to announce it would stop tellers at all branches from handling banknotes.

Teller cash transactions are no longer available at the Commonwealth Bank's 'specialist centres' in Sydney, including Commonwealth Bank Place in Darling Harbour, along with the nearby South Eveleigh, Barangaroo, the University of Sydney and outer suburban Penrith.

Daily Mail Australia also understands some 'specialist centre' branches in Brisbane and Melbourne no longer permit over-the-counter cash withdrawals and deposits.

The old Commercial Banking Company of Sydney, known as CBC, installed Australia's first automatic teller machine in 1969, but ATMs could soon become a relic of the past, even before cheques are phased out by 2030.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers in June announced cheques would disappear 'no later than 2030'.

The Reserve Bank noted in its June bulletin report, by Jack Mulqueeney and Tanya Livermore, that even the elderly were turning away from cash.

'The demographic groups that traditionally used cash more frequently for payments  such as the elderly, those on lower incomes and those in regional areas  saw the largest declines in cash use,' it said.
Video has resurfaced of Indigenous Voice to Parliament advocate Marcia Langton branding Australia's national anthem as offensive in a keynote address.

On Thursday, Voice opponents circulated a video of Prof Langton criticising the 'Advance Australia Fair' at an Australia and New Zealand School of Government conference in February 2019.

The footage was captured before the lyrics of the anthem were changed in 2021 from 'for we are young and free' to 'for we are one and free'.

It was part of a keynote address attended by more than 400 public servants, academics, and Aboriginal and Maori leaders to discuss Indigenous affairs titled: 'Give Money and Power to the Indigenous Sector'.

As Yes campaigner Marcia Langton came under more fire, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese delivered another impassioned speech for Aussies to support the Indigenous Voice to Parliament in Canberra on Thursday

Towards the end of the 45-minute speech, Prof Langton commented about the anthem, four days after a pre-season NRL clash between the Indigenous and Maori All Stars.

The Australian Indigenous All-Stars team sparked a public outcry for refusing to sing Australia's anthem after their Maori opponents proudly performed the New Zealand one.

'I can tell you that when I saw the NRL All-stars game on Friday night, I had to sit down during the Australian national anthem,' Professor Langton said.

'The Maori people, with their treaty, and you know we have none, were able to sing the national anthem proudly.

'I doubt I know any Aboriginal people who know the words to ours.

'In fact, if you read them, they are so offensive.

'We look across the ditch at the Maori progress, the Treaty of Waitangi, the Treaty of Waitangi Tribunal, your justice reinvestment program, your economic development. It's all possible, and I don't see why we can't have that here.'

Professor Marcia Langton claimed in a 2019 keynote address that she didn't know any Aboriginal Aussies who knew the words to Advance Australia Fair

At the time, the NRL Indigenous All Stars sparked controversy for not singing the national anthem at the 2019 All Stars match. Pictured is Latrell Mitchell leading the Indigenous war cry

She also claimed the then Coalition federal government 'cannot even contemplate treaties.'

'Public servants have little idea of what we're talking about and need to be educated quickly to understand these indigenous priorities if a referendum is held on the voice of proposal of the Uluru statement,' she said.

Earlier today, audio resurfaced of Langton branding Australia a 'horrible, racist country'.

The Indigenous academic made the inflammatory comments in 2017 with the audio shared on 2GB on Thursday.

'What fantasy world do they live in that would make them even ask the question?' she said.

'Of course Australia is racist. It's a horrible, racist country.'

The newly-unearthed comments comes after Prof Langton was this week forced to deny calling No voters 'racist and stupid' at a referendum event at Edith Cowan University in Perth on Sunday.

Instead, she clarified she 'was explaining how the No campaign is using fears and lies to frighten No voters into voting No'.

'The No campaign is claiming that this our proposition in the referendum will create apartheid and so it's very important to answer people's questions and explain exactly how this kind of the [campaign] works,' she said.

'I deny it absolutely. There is a recording of what I said at the Bunbury meeting. And what I said is very clear.'

Audio from the meeting reveals Prof Langton said: 'Every time the No cases raise their arguments, if you start pulling it apart, you get down to base racism - I'm sorry to say that's where it lands - or sheer stupidity.

'If you look at any reputable fact-checker, every one of them says the No case is substantially false, they are lying to you.'
Leading No campaigner Warren Mundine says he would consider vying for a spot on the Voice should the referendum succeed on October 14.

Mr Mundine, who leads the Recognise a Better Way organisation, said regardless of the result in next month's referendum, Australia would be 'polarised'; but he would respect the outcome of the debate because 'we live in a liberal democracy'.

Moments after Opposition Leader Peter Dutton suggested Marcia Langton and Yes campaigners would automatically be appointed to a role on the Voice, Mr Mundine said he would consider seeking a place on the advisory council to ensure the Voice did what it was tasked to do.

Asked by reporters in Canberra if he was still considering seeking a position on the Voice, Mr Mundine said: 'If yes gets up, sure'.

'I'll be there to make sure that we do fix the issues that are plaguing Aboriginal communities,' Mr Mundine said.

'I've said that from day one, and I'll continue to say that.'

Warren Mundine is a leading No campaigner but would consider seeking a spot on the Voice. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gary Ramage

What the Voice will look like should the Yes vote succeed would ultimately be voted on by the Parliament, but Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has long suggested the model devised by Tom Calma and professor Langton - which calls for a Voice of 24 representatives, made up of members from every state, territory, and the Torres Strait Islands - would be closely considered.

The referendum working group, which is currently advising the government on the design of the Voice, says the body will be elected by First Nations people, and based on the wishes of local communities.

Meanwhile, as tensions flare over comments made by professor Langton that specifically criticised the case against an Indigenous advisory body, Mr Dutton has warned Australians of the role he believes she would have should the Voice succeed.

'Every time the No cases raise their arguments, if you start pulling it apart you get down to base racism - I'm sorry to say that's where it lands - or sheer stupidity,' Prof Langton told a referendum event at Edith Cowan University in Western Australia on Sunday.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton says Marcia Langton would have all the power under the Voice. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman

On Thursday, Mr Dutton returned serve, branding Ms Langton's language as 'vitriolic' and 'bitter', and claiming Yes campaign members would be appointed to the Voice advisory body.

'Well, I think they're just providing, you know, a sort of a look through the window of what the Voice might be as a body - if it's successful on October 14, it will be divisive,' he told Nine Radio host Ray Hadley.

'You hear it in the language of Marcia Langton, but some of the others as well ... members on the (Yes) committee who have got union affiliations or Labor Party backgrounds or sympathisers to the communist cause.

'These people are the ones who would have all of the power under the Voice that the Prime Minister is proposing,' Mr Dutton said.

Mr Mundine said no matter the result on October 14, Australia would be 'polarised', but pleaded for both sides of the campaign to end the 'vitriolic arguments and fights'.

'My concern is that we don't wake up on Sunday (October 15) and the whole place is on fire. We really want people to know, no matter what the decision is, that it's a democracy,' he said.

'People will make that choice and we must all accept it. And we must then work together to deal with the issues that are happening in Indigenous communities.'
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi conceded Joe Biden may drop out of the 2024 race - then smirked, laughed and dodged the question when asked if she thinks Kamala Harris should run to be re-elected as vice president.

Worryingly for the president, Pelosi also gave an evasive answer when pressed about whether his career willl continue until 2024 and beyond.

Asked if she thought 'there's any chance (Biden) does not continue running,' Pelosi gave a less-than-definitive: 'I hope not, I hope not.'

The 80 year-old president - who is the oldest ever elected - has faced growing questions over his cognitive abilities - with more of the criticism coming from his own party.

Pelosi, 83, also gave a classic non-answer to Anderson Cooper on his show Wednesday night when asked if Harris was 'the best running mate for this president.'

She answered: 'He thinks so, and that's what matters. She's very politically astute. I don't think people give her enough credit. Her values are consistent with the president's values. Why would she be vice president if she were not?'

Pushed again by Cooper - Pelosi still dodged the question, but began to smile, giggle and even raise her eyes conspiratorially as she spoke. The CNN star was off-camera at the time and it's unclear if he did something to amuse her.

Speaking through a smile, Pelosi said: 'She's the vice president of the United States. People say to me, well, why isn't she doing this or that? I say, because she's the vice president. That's the job description. You don't do that much.'

Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi appeared to hedge a bit when asked if she felt Vice President Kamala Harris should be on the ticket in 2024, only saying that President Biden 'thinks so and that's what matters'

Ultimately, Pelosi did have some praise for Harris' job performance.

'You know, you're a source of strength, inspiration, intellectual resource and the rest and I think she's represented our country very well at home and abroad.'

Pelosi also laughed off a David Ignatius column in the Jeff Bezos-owned Washington Post that challenged both Harris and her boss, writing: 'President Biden should not run again in 2024.'

Ignatius largely praises Biden's first years in office, claiming the Democrat has 'governed from the center out' and done a good job with foreign policy in supporting Ukraine.

However, he says not just Biden but Vice President Kamala Harris should avoid running in 2024.

'It's painful to say that, given my admiration for much of what they have accomplished. But if he and Harris campaign together in 2024, I think Biden risks undoing his greatest achievement - which was stopping Trump.'

He cited disastrous poll numbers for Biden in terms of approval rating and the public's opinion of his age.

Pelosi laughed off the Ignatius' criticism as just one voice and retorted a previous criticism Ignatius made of her trip to Taiwan.

Pelosi, 83, still Speaker Emerita and running for re-election next year as well, was asked if Harris (pictured) was the right person to team up with Biden again as Harris has been asked if she's capable of replacing him

'He thinks so, and that's what matters,' Pelosi said. 'She's very politically astute. I don't think people give her enough credit'

The New York Times and Washington Post published op-eds Wednesday branding 80-year-old President Joe Biden as too old to run for re-election in 2024. Pelosi laughed off their criticism

'Yeah, so? That's one. He also said he shouldn't run because he allowed me to go to Taiwan. Nobody allows me to do anything. It wasn't up to David Ignatius.'

Pelosi was full of praise for the president when asked if he was the best person for the Democratic nomination in 2024.

'I think so. Yes. President Biden has -- he has great experience and wisdom. He's been at this for a long time, as you know, as a senator, vice president, and now president. He has a vision for our country that's about fairness and justice and addressing the kitchen table issues of America's working families.'

She admitted that 'there may be some concerns' among Democrats about his age but that everybody's for him. Overwhelmingly, everybody's for him.

For Harris - whose criticism Pelosi did not directly address - he cited 'simple fact is that she has failed to gain traction in the country or even within her own party.'

He even suggested Biden replace Harris on the ticket with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass or Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

'Right now, there's no clear alternative to Biden - no screamingly obvious replacement waiting in the wings. That might be the decider for Biden, that there's seemingly nobody else. But maybe he will trust in democracy to discover new leadership 'in the arena.''

Harris insisted last week that she was ready to 'take over' from President Joe Biden if the 80-year-old fell ill and couldn't carry on running the country.

The VP laid out the worst-case scenario, but insisted Biden is fine and can continue serving through a second term until he is 86.

Harris, who has struggled with dire approval ratings, defended the president's age during an interview with the Associated Press at the ASEAN Summit in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The AP's Chris Megerian pointed to last week's AP-NORC poll that found 77 percent of Americans, including 69 percent of Democrats, believe Biden is too old to run for reelection.

Vice President Kamala Harris insisted Wednesday that she was ready to 'take over' from President Joe Biden, however assured Americans that he was up to serving as president until age 86

A Wall Street Journal poll out Monday had similar findings, with 73 percent of voters saying Biden is too old to run again, including two-thirds of Democrats.

Harris dismissed concerns and said Biden was ready to serve as president until January 2025.

'First of all, let me say that our president has been an extraordinary leader who has accomplished things that previous presidents hoped and dreamed and promised they would do and did not achieve,' she said.

'So yes, I see him every day, a substantial amount of time we spend together is in the Oval Office, where I see how his ability to understand issues and weave through complex issues in a way that no one else can, to make smart and important decisions on behalf of the American people, have played out,' Harris continued.

'And so I will say to you, that I think the American people ultimately want to know that their president delivers - and Joe Biden delivers,' the VP added.

Harris also answered in the affirmative when Megerian asked if she was prepared to serve as president.

'Yes,' she said.
Escaped prisoner Danelo Cavalcante survived his two weeks on the run by eating watermelon, drinking stream water and covering up his poop in an effort to avoid tracking by authorities, he revealed.

Cavalcante, 34, was captured on Wednesday after he spent two weeks on the run following his escape from Chester County Prison in Pennsylvania on August 31.

U.S. Marshal Robert Clark told Chris Cuomo the fugitive was 'brutally honest' when talking to law enforcement after his dramatic capture and revealed there were three occasions police came close to nabbing him.

'And as a matter of fact, he did say on three occasions law enforcement officers did almost step on him,' Clark said. 'They were about 7-8 yards away from him.'

The killer terrorized the Pennsylvania community during his time at large by breaking into homes, changing his appearance and stealing cars.

Danelo Cavalcante, 34, was captured on Wednesday after he spent two weeks on the run following his escape from Chester County Prison in Pennsylvania on August 31.

In an interview with law enforcement after his capture Cavalcante 'candidly' opened up about surviving by eating watermelon, drinking stream water and hiding his poop

The Pennsylvania community have endured two weeks of sleepless nights during the terrifying manhunt for the murderer on the loose

Cavalcante stumbled upon a watermelon patch during his time on the loose and he admitted to authorities that he stole watermelons from the farm in order to survive.

The fugitive murderer - whose name is officially listed with the different spelling Danilo Souza Cavalcante in Brazil - drank water from streams along his way to stay hydrated.

He told police that he survived their manhunt for so long because he mainly moved during the night and he would tactically cover up his feces so the search party wouldn't be able to track his location, Clark said.

'So, some of the things that he talked about was after he escaped, he didn't move very far,' Clark said. 'He stayed in the same area for the first three days.

'He was able to obtain watermelon on some farm. He drank stream water, and he would only hide in thick, thick thickets where, unless you stepped on him, nobody would find him.'

Alongside the officers was the heroic K-9 officer - Yoda - who helped take Cavalcante down by biting the criminal

Cavalcante revealed that he was almost stepped on by law enforcement three separate times during his two weeks on the run

In the interview with authorities after his arrest, Cavalcante told law enforcement officials that he planned to escape the perimeter within the next 24 hours.

'He scoped out a spot on the perimeter he wanted to get across. He scoped out a residence where he believed there may be some vehicles and he took advantage of that,' Clark said. 'And that was the same thing with the second perimeter.

'He said that law enforcement officers on a day-to-day basis there were just more and more of them. He noticed aerial assets he noticed that the helicopters and I guess his spidey senses were tingling, he wanted to leave.'

Cavalcante had reportedly stolen a rifle, which he was going to use to carjack a motorist and flee to Canada.

The escaped prisoner was finally captured when he got cornered by about 25 officers in the woods near South Coventry Township Wednesday morning after authorities used thermal imaging from an aircraft to pinpoint his possible location the previous night.

Alongside the officers was the heroic K-9 officer - Yoda - who helped take Cavalcante down by biting the criminal.

A witness to the highly anticipated capture of the killer described how the 'worn out' and 'raggedy' escapee had no choice but to 'give up' when he was cornered in the woods.

The witness, store-manager Jim Martin, said: 'He looked like he realized he had to give up. He looked soaked, like he was probably in the stream at one point, or just soaked from last night's rain.

The escaped prisoner was finally captured when he got cornered by about 25 officers in the woods after authorities used thermal imaging from an aircraft to pinpoint his possible location the previous night

The killer's capture brought relief to anxious residents of southeastern Pennsylvania who endured two weeks of sleepless nights as he hid in the woods, broke into suburban homes and stole food, changed his appearance, and fled under gunfire with a rifle he'd taken along his way.

In a statement, Chester county commissioners told DailyMail.com: 'The capture of Cavalcante ends the nightmare of the past two weeks, and we thank every single law enforcement official at the regional, state and federal level that was out in all weather conditions, all day and night  as well as everyone in the incident command center, our County Department of Emergency Services and County Sheriffs Office  for their immense efforts.

The 34-year-old was serving a life sentence for the murder of his ex-girlfriend and awaiting transfer at the Chester County prison in Pennsylvania when he escaped by climbing a wall on August 31.

Last week, the prison guard who did not see or report the escape was fired. Prison officials told CNN, the corrections officer was an 18-year veteran of the prison.
Price increase blamed on wages and other 'fixed costs'

Students at an elite school will be paying as much as a house deposit to get their education, with parents set to fork out almost $85,000 for tuition fees.

Geelong Grammar will charge Year 9 boarding students a massive $84,240 in fees from 2024, following an eight per cent increase to the annual payment.

The school in Corio, south-west of Melbourne, will charge students in Year's 10 to 12 $49,720 for their tuition fees. Years 7 and 8 students will be billed $41,060.

Geelong Grammar is the most expensive school in the state and counted King Charles as one of its students for two terms in 1966.

Students who attend Geelong Grammar in Melbourne's south-west, will be paying close to $85,000 in school fees from next year

Geelong Grammar is the most expensive school in the state and counted King Charles as one of its students for two terms in 1966

Year 9 boarding students live at the school's Timbertop campus, around 240km north-west of Melbourne.

The latest price hike comes after the school increased fees for Year 12 students by 5.4 per cent in 2023.

The school sent a letter to students explaining the costs took into account teachers' salaries and other 'fixed costs', The Herald Sun reported.

'Staff salaries represent more than 64 per cent of the school's overall costs, while student services and utilities account for 16 per cent,' the letter read.

The school said they did not increase fees during the pandemic, but have now changed their enrolment structure.

'A modest increase of two per cent in 2022 and an increase of six per cent in 2023, which across this period kept fee increases below the average for non-government schools and below the Consumer Price Index,' the letter read.

'The fee increases for 2024 represents a reset of our fee schedule.'

Daily Mail Australia contacted Geelong Grammar for comment.

The school benefitted from a $10 million handout during the pandemic, thanks to the Job Keeper payment.

Fees were kept on hold throughout 2021 at $41,792.

Geelong Grammar is not the only school in Victoria slugging parents a hefty amount, for their child's tuition.

According to a letter the school sent to parents, the latest increases in school fees have been blamed on teachers' salaries and other 'fixed costs'

Geelong Grammar is the most expensive school in the Victoria, and recieved a $10 million handout during the pandemic, thanks to the Job Keeper payment.

Mount Scopus Memorial College, a Jewish school in Burwood increased fees to $40,860 for year 12 students this year - a $1900 increase from fees charged in 2022.

It comes after the Victorian Government announced non-government schools would be hit with a payroll tax, if they earn more than $15,000 in school fees per student.

The tax will come into effect in July 2024.
A Jetstar flight carrying hundreds of passengers was forced to make an unexpected diversion after the windscreen on the plane was damaged.

Jetstar flight JQ26 was forced to make a layover in Guam after leaving Tokyo on Wednesday.

The plane was headed to Cairns, Queensland, and carrying 220 people when the captain discovered the plane's windscreen was damaged.

Frustrated passengers had to wait for a replacement flight to be organised before continuing their journey.

The flight arrived at Cairns at 5:40am on Thursday, roughly 24 hours after it was scheduled to arrive.

Jetstar flight JQ26 was forced to make an emergency landing after a crack in the outer-layer of it's windscreen was found mid-flight

Passengers en route from Tokyo to Cairns had an unexpected layover in Guam (pictured) while the airliner organised a replacement flight

A spokesperson from the airline confirmed that the plane had touched down in Queensland after a replacement flight had been organised.

'We arranged hotel accommodation and meals for customers during the delay in Guam, and our captain and operations team worked closely with local authorities to arrange customs processing and support at the airport,' the spokesman said.

'Safety is always our number one priority.'

Planes are designed to handle issues like this, allowing the pilots to calmly divert their course in order to land and resolve it.

The spokesperson said that only the outer-layer of the Boeing 787 had been damaged.
American liberals need to accept that single-parent families are more likely to raise children in poverty, an influential New York Times columnist has argued.

Nick Kristof said the fact was taboo among progressives, who worried that they would be labelled racist for admitting it.

Black families are statistically more likely than white, Hispanic or Asian to be single-parent: less than half of black children were living with two married parents in 2020, according to the latest census.

Only 38 percent of black children live with married parents.

And while 62 percent of white children live in low-poverty areas with fathers present in most homes, only 4 percent of black children do.

'We have long had a blind spot,' wrote Kristof, in a column published on Wednesday.

'We are often reluctant to acknowledge one of the significant drivers of child poverty  the widespread breakdown of family  for fear that to do so would be patronizing or racist.'

New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof on Wednesday published a column discussing single-parent families and the correlation with childhood poverty

Kristof noted that single mothers raising children are five times as likely to live in poverty as married-couple families.

Children who are raised in single-mother homes are less likely to graduate from high school or earn a college degree, and more likely to become single parents themselves.

Kristof references a new book out next week by Melissa S. Kearney, an economist at the University of Maryland, entitled: 'The Two-Parent Privilege'.

Kristof calls Kearney's book 'important'.

'The data present some uncomfortable realities,' she writes.

'Two-parent families are beneficial for children. Places that have more two-parent families have higher rates of upward mobility. Not talking about these facts is counterproductive.'

The writer noted that many liberals 'talk left but walk right' - they insist single-parent families are no different to married ones, but usually end up getting married and raising children in a traditional nuclear family.

Children raised by single parents are statistically poorer and less likely to graduate from high school and college

Kristof noted that many people raised in single-parent households went on to be successful - among them Barack Obama.

'And I think the big driver for the rise in single-parent households is bad decisions by policymakers that led to mass incarceration and a collapse of earnings for working-class men,' Kristof wrote.

But, he stressed, those pointing out the problems of single-parent families had been 'denounced by liberals for racism and victim-blaming' as far back as 1965, when New York senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan - who had been raised in poverty by a single mother - wrote about the decline in black marriages, and warned of potential social breakdown as a result.

'One advantage of a two-parent family is simply a function of arithmetic: Two parents can earn two incomes, meaning less poverty,' Kristof wrote.

He pointed out that America was an outlier: of 130 countries surveyed by Pew in 2019, the United States had the lowest rates of two-parent families.

Kristof said one way to improve the situation was to increase the earnings of low-education men, to make them more 'marriageable'.

'The breakdown of family primarily among low-income Americans may be uncomfortable to talk about, but it is part of the apparatus of inequality in the United States,' he concluded.

'It doesn't help when we avert our eyes, ignore the data and deny the existence of two-parent privilege.'
China has flown 68 warplanes and deployed 10 navy vessels around Taiwan in a day's span - just weeks after the US announced its first-ever transfer of military equipment to the island.

The move is the latest in military demonstrations between China, Taiwan and the US.

The 68 plane total came a day after Taipei said 35 Chinese warplanes were detected around the self-ruled island, with some then flying to join China's Shandong aircraft carrier for naval drills in the Western Pacific.

Communist China claims self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and relations have soured since Taiwan's independence. When Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen came to power in 2016, Beijing ratcheted up military and political pressure on the island.

The US has long been a backer of Taiwan, and Nancy Pelosi made a visit to the island in 2022. Last month, President Joe Biden's administration announced an $80million transfer of military hardware to Taiwan.

Taiwan said Thursday China had flown 68 warplanes and deployed 10 navy vessels into areas around the island in one day

The State Department informed Congress of the $80 million package, which is small compared with recent sales to Taiwan but marks the first assistance to Taipei under the Foreign Military Financing program, which generally involves grants or loans to sovereign countries.

The State Department did not formally announce the aid or give details, but a person familiar with the notice said the assistance would involve support to improve awareness at sea.

Taiwan's defense ministry said beginning at around 6am local time, Chinese warplanes, including J-10 fighters, had flown into the southwestern corner of the island's air defense identification zone, or ADIZ.

'This year, the Chinese Communist Party has aggressively expanded its armaments and continued to build various types of fighter jets and drones,' Taiwanese Major General Huang Wen-Chi said in a statement.

Some of the Chinese aircraft crossed the Bashi Channel to carry out drills with the Chinese aircraft carrier the Shandong in the Pacific, the ministry added.

Japan's defense ministry also said Wednesday its navy had detected six ships - including frigates, destroyers, one fast combat support ship and the Shandong - sailing through waters some 400 miles south of Miyakojima island, east of Taiwan.

Japan sent a destroyer to monitor the Chinese ships and confirmed that jet fighters and helicopters aboard the Shandong conducted landing training, the ministry added.

China's defense ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Taiwan's forces monitored the situation, including sending up its own air force planes and activating air defense systems, the ministry added, using the normal phrasing for its response to such Chinese incursions.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy greeted Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen at the Ronald Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California, in April despite warnings from China not to go forward with the meeting

Communist China claims self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and relations have soured since Taiwan's independence

Democratically-governed Taiwan, which China views as its own territory, has complained in recent years of stepped-up Chinese military activities near the island as Beijing seeks to assert its sovereignty claims

A Chinese naval formation led by the Shandong entered the western Pacific for training, Taiwan's defense ministry said on Monday.

Separately, more than 20 Chinese warships, including Type 055 destroyers, sailed through the Bashi Channel and Miyako Strait into the Pacific on Wednesday, a senior official familiar with security planning in the region told Reuters.

The Chinese naval maneuver, along with the training exercises by the carrier group, were an 'obvious challenge' to the recent military activities by the United States and its allies in the region, the person said.

'They want to show that they got the total control of the west of the first island chain,' the person said, referring to the area which runs from Japan through Taiwan, the Philippines and on to Borneo, enclosing China's coastal seas.

A US and a Canadian warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait on Saturday, the U.S. Navy said, marking the second such joint mission since June and coinciding with the leaders of both countries attending the G20 summit in India.

The two countries' navies also conducted a series of exercises in the South China Sea this week, according to the US Navy.

China has been increasing its military operations around Taiwan over the past few years in response to what it calls 'collusion' between Taiwan independence forces and the US.

For five decades, the United States has officially recognized only Beijing although Congress, under the Taiwan Relations Act, requires the supply of weapons to the self-governing democracy for its defense.

The State Department insisted that the first-ever aid under the program did not imply any recognition of Taiwan sovereignty.

Then-Speaker of the U.S. House Of Representatives Nancy Pelosi (pictured center) visited Taiwan in August 2022, the first speaker to do so in 25 years

President Joe Biden 's administration for the first approved direct US military aid to Taiwan under an assistance program aimed at foreign government in late August

View over Xiamen City in Fujian province from Dadan Island's beach in Taiwan

'Consistent with the Taiwan Relations Act and our longstanding One China policy, which has not changed, the United States makes available to Taiwan defense articles and services necessary to enable it to maintain a sufficient self-defense capability,' a State Department spokesperson said.

'The United States has an abiding interest in peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, which is critical to regional and global security and prosperity.'

Taiwan's defense ministry expressed gratitude. 'The aid will help in regional peace and stability,' it said in a short statement.

China's defense ministry, asked about the aid at a regular briefing, warned that US military aid to Taiwan would harm the island.

'US military aid and sales to Taiwan only nourish the US military-industrial complex while harming the security and well-being of Taiwan compatriots,' spokesperson Wu Qian told a briefing.

'In this regard, the People's Liberation Army will, as always, take all necessary measures to resolutely counter it,' he added, referring to the Chinese military by its official name.

Kevin McCarthy greeted Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen in his home state of California in April amid rising threats from China warning the two leaders against bilateral talks.

The House Speaker led a bipartisan group of lawmakers to meet with Tsai and her delegation as they wrap up a highly controversial and closely-watched tour through Central and North America.

Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi visited in August of 2022, becoming the first speaker to do so since 1997.
READ MORE: Millennials are moving to regional areas

Australians are leaving NSW in their tens of thousands with many heading to sunnier skies and warmer climates in Queensland, new numbers from the Australian Bureau of Statistics have revealed.

A net 30,000 people fled NSW in the 12 months to 31 March this year while over the same time period just over 31,000 poured into the Sunshine State from interstate.

At the same time, Victoria (-5644), Tasmania (-1994), Northern Territory (-2745) and ACT (-1752) also experienced negative interstate migration.

NSW did however experience a net population increase of 156,000 people over the same period, with the boost driven by overseas immigration.

The state had a positive 'natural' population increase of 33,000 - from 96,000 births and 63,000 deaths.

Tens of thousands of people have been leaving NSW for the warmer climates in Queensland (stock image)

At the same time it welcomed 234,010 overseas arrivals, while another 80,000 departed for overseas.

NSW had a 1.9 per cent increase in its population over the 12-month period with all states experiencing a net increase.

Western Australia (2.8 per cent) experienced the biggest growth in its population followed by Victoria (2.4 per cent), Queensland (2.3 per cent) and the ACT (2 per cent).

Australia's total population swelled by 2.2 per cent (563,000) to 26.5m at the same time.

'Thirteen months after international borders were reopened, net overseas migration accounted for 81 per cent of growth and added 454,400 people to the population in the year to March 2023,' ABS head of demography Beidar Cho said.

A net 30,000 people fled NSW in the 12 months to 31 March this year while more than 31,000 moved interstate to Queensland

NSW did experience a net population increase of 156,000 people over the same period, with the boost driven by overseas immigration

Just over 680,000 overseas arrivals came into Australia over the period - up 103 per cent on the previous year - while at the same time 226,000 overseas migrants departed.

'This pattern, low departures in particular, is a catch-up effect after closed international borders, as international students return with only a small number departing because very few arrived during the pandemic,' the ABS said.

'This effect is expected to be temporary as the number of departures will increase in the future as temporary students start departing in usual numbers.'
Sara Sharif's mother last night revealed her 'huge relief' after the 10-year-old's runaway father and stepmother were arrested on suspicion of murder after fleeing to Pakistan a month ago.

Urfan Sharif, 41, his partner Beinash Batool, 29, and brother Faisal Malik, 28, flew back to Britain yesterday after surrendering themselves to police following an international manhunt.

Surrey Police said the trio are in custody and will be quizzed over Sara's death at home in Woking.

Sharif and Batool fled to Islamabad on August 9 with five children aged between one and 12, leaving the body of Sara, Sharif's eldest daughter, behind. The schoolgirl, who had suffered 'multiple and extensive injuries' over a 'sustained' period of time, was found a day later at the family's home after Sharif alerted police from an unknown location in Pakistan.

Reacting to the news of their arrest, Sara's birth mother Olga Sharif called it a 'a weight lifted from my shoulders'.

'It is a huge relief and something I didn't think would happen this quickly... but there is still a long way to go before I feel closure,' she said. 'I have had to wait a long time for this and I didn't know if they would ever be able to investigate what happened to my daughter.'

Last night a Surrey Police spokesman said: 'Two men, aged 41 years and 28 years, and a woman, aged 29 years, were arrested on suspicion of murder after disembarking a flight from Dubai. They are currently in custody and will be interviewed in due course.

Ten-year-old Sara Sharif (pictured) was found dead and alone in her family's home near Woking, Surrey, on August 10

Olga Sharif with a picture of her daughter Sara who was found dead at her home in Woking, Surrey

Urfan Sharif, 41, (left) his partner Beinash Batool, 29, (centre) and brother Faisal Malik, 28, (right) have been arrested on suspicion of murder. The trio are pictured at at Sialkot Airport in Dubai this morning

'Sara's mother has been informed of this latest update and is being supported by specialist officers. Our thoughts remain with her and those affected by Sara's death at this very difficult time.

'This has been an extremely fast-moving, challenging and complex inquiry and we remain absolutely committed to conducting a thorough investigation into Sara's death.'

Ms Sharif also told The Sun that it was important the police could look into the matter with no morsel of information being left behind and everyone working together.

A post-mortem examination found the youngster had suffered 'multiple and extensive injuries' over a 'sustained and extended' period of time.

Ms Sharif added: 'What is important now is that the police can investigate with no information being kept back or put to the side. This needs everyone to work together. I have had to wait a long time for this and I didn't know if they would ever be able to investigate what happened to my daughter.'

Urfan Sharif, 41, his partner Beinash Batool, 29, and brother Faisal Malik, 28, were arrested after disembarking a flight from Dubai at Gatwick Airport and are currently in custody, Surrey Police said. They will be interviewed in due course

Sara's father (left) and his partner Beinash Batool (right) released a video last week addressing the death and confirming they were in hiding

Surrey Police officers were expected to board the Emirates A380 Airbus as soon as it taxied to a halt after landing at Gatwick Airport at 7.28pm tonight

In a dramatic development earlier yesterday, Sharif and Batool had agreed to fly back to Britain to face questioning. They boarded a flight from the eastern city of Sialkot in Pakistan. It came just days after police in Pakistan took custody of the five other children following a raid on a relative's home in the north-eastern city of Jhelum.

The couple and Malik, according to their lawyers, had decided to come back to Britain and give their accounts to the police after having been in hiding in Pakistan for the past month.

The family had launched a desperate legal bid to prevent them being extradited to the UK, complaining that their freedom of movement and travel had been infringed by the police investigation into Sara's death.

In a petition to Lahore High Court littered with mistakes, including Sara's age, the family complained that 'they are required for the murder of Sara's (sic), daughter aged about 12/13 year in the United Kingdom'.

The legal papers, lodged on behalf of Urfan Sharif's father Muhammad Sharif, stated that the missing couple and their extended relatives have been 'victimised' by the police hunt, denied their fundamental right to travel and complain they have been 'deprived' of personal liberties.

Urfan Sharif and his partner Beinash Batool have both arrived back in the UK

Tributes outside the home of Sara Sharif, where the little girl's body was found on August 10

Faisal Malik, brother of Urfan Sharif, has also arrived back in the UK

It was argued that Pakistani police had no basis to detain the couple as they had not committed any offences in Pakistan and there is no extradition treaty with Britain.

The family's lawyer, Malik Asif Taufeeq Awan, demanded the court intervene to 'protect and to save the entire family member including Urfan Sharif as well as her wife Benish [sic] Batool from the illegal iron hands of respondent authorities'.

The case had been due to be heard next week, but the couple decided to hand themselves in yesterday along with Faisal Malik. Family lawyer Raja Haq Nawaz said they had left for Britain voluntarily.

The five children remain in Pakistan and are in the care of the government-run Child Protection Bureau at its centre in Lahore.
Vladimir Putin and fellow dictator Kim Jong Un formed a 'blood alliance' during their arms deal talks in Russia, an analyst has said.

It raises fears that North Korea will supply Moscow with ammunition for the gruelling war in Ukraine.

Putin has even accepted an invitation to visit North Korea in a growing sign of the despot's desperation to forge ties with Pyongyang to help his war effort.

The Russian warmonger had greeted Kim yesterday at Russia's modern space rocket launch site with an enthusiastic handshake that lasted 40 seconds in a rare summit.

Western officials and a former US general said yesterday that the fact that Putin had to plead with Kim for ageing ammunition and rockets to help with his grinding war is a 'clear sign of his isolation and desperation'.

And now, Putin has gone one step further and accepted the invitation to visit North Korea 'with pleasure' after the two dictators called each other 'comrades' as they toasted their future cooperation over a dinner featuring crab dumplings, sturgeon and beef.

The two dictators, both of whom have been ostracised by the West, even gifted each other rifles 'of the highest quality' following the summit while Putin also gave Kim a glove from a space suit that had 'been in space several times', the Kremlin said.

Western countries have repeatedly raised concerns of a possible arms agreement between Russia and North Korea, as Moscow's war in Ukraine grinds on.

Experts have now warned Kim's visit to Russia is a sign that the relations between the two dictatorships have 'completely returned to the level of blood alliance during the Cold War'.

Vladimir Putin and fellow dictator Kim Jong Un formed a 'blood alliance' during their arms deal talks in Russia, raising already heightened fears that North Korea will supply Moscow with much needed ammunition for its war in Ukraine

Putin and Kim Jong Un laugh together during a visit to the Vostochny cosmodrome outside the city of Tsiolkovsky on Wednesday

Kim Jong Un laugh together during a trip to Vostochny in Russia during which they formed a 'blood alliance'

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un meets Russia's President Vladimir Putin at the Vostochny cosmodrome on Wednesday

'The summit signals a seismic change in the Northeast Asian geopolitics,' said Kim Jong-dae, a former MP and visiting scholar at Yonsei Institute for North Korean Studies.

A stronger alliance between North Korea, Russia and China could become a 'destabilising force in the region', and ammunition from Pyongyang could significantly impact the war in Ukraine.

'I think Russia has already tested the North Korean shells in battlefields and is now ready to expand its use going forward.

'And neither the US nor South Korea has come to grips with the implications of such an arms deal between Russia and the North,' he said.

Russia became a pariah in the West after invading Ukraine last year and has looked to strengthen alliances with other leaders facing similar isolation.

Putin on Wednesday praised the 'strengthening of cooperation and friendship between our countries', while hosting Kim.

He also said Moscow could help Pyongyang build satellites - after the North failed twice recently to put a military spy satellite into orbit.

In Washington, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said any cooperation would be 'quite troubling and would potentially be in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions'.

Kim, who travelled overland to Russia in his bullet-proof train, was accompanied by a military-heavy entourage, with top Russian military officials including Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu also involved in the talks.

'With Kim Jong Un's latest visit to Russia, North Korea-Russia relations can be said to have completely returned to the level of blood alliance during the Cold War,' Cheong Seong-chang, researcher at the Sejong Institute, told AFP.

'There have been many summit meetings between North Korea and Russia so far, but there has never been a time when North Korea brought in almost all of its key military officials like the one happening right now.'

Following the summit, Putin and Kim gifted each other rifles, the Kremlin said.

Putin 'gave (Kim) a rifle from our production of the highest quality. In turn, he also received a North Korean-made rifle,' Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Putin also give Kim 'a glove from a space suit that has been in space several times', Peskov said, while Putin 'gratefully' accepted an invitation to visit North Korea.

He said Kim's visit to Russia, which began on Tuesday, would last 'a few more days' without giving any further details.

Putin has even accepted an invitation to visit North Korea in a growing sign of the Russian warmonger's desperation to forge ties with Pyongyang amid his gruelling war against Kyiv

Putin and Kim smile and shake hands as the Russian despot welcomes Kim to Russia

Putin, second left, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visit the Vostochny cosmodrome outside the city of Tsiolkovsky

After touring a space centre and attending a lavish banquet in his honour, Kim 'courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK at a convenient time', state-run KCNA said

During the dinner, a fawning Kim praised the 'heroic' Russian army's 'virtue and honour' on the front lines of Putin's 'sacred struggle' in Ukraine

Among the results of the leaders' summit were Russian promises of help with North Korea's fledgling space programme, according to Russian news agencies. Putin also told reporters he saw 'possibilities' for military cooperation.

But Ben Hodges, former commander of US forces in Europe, said that the fact that Putin is having to 'plead for ammunition' from Kim to help with his grinding war in Ukraine is a 'clear sign of his isolation and desperation'.

And James O'Brien, head of the Office of Sanctions Coordination at the U.S. State Department, said Russia was 'scraping the bottom of the barrel looking for help because it's having trouble sustaining its military.'

General Hodges added that while the Russian warmonger would hope that the supply of such ammunition would help with his assault, it will only 'extend his war efforts for a few more months' in a move that will see 'thousands more Russian soldiers die for no reason other than Putin's personal ambitions'.

The historic allies are both under rafts of global sanctions - Moscow for its Ukraine conflict, Pyongyang for its nuclear tests - with Kim's visit sparking widespread concern over illicit arms agreements.

The head of South Korea's ruling party slammed what he called 'a devil's deal' between Moscow and Pyongyang, with Japan warning Thursday against any violations of UN bans on arms deals with the North after Putin-Kim talks.

'We are watching (the talks) with concerns including the possibility that it could lead to violations of the Security Council's ban on all arms-related material transactions with North Korea,' new Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa told reporters.

After touring a space centre and attending a lavish banquet in his honour, Kim 'courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK at a convenient time', state-run KCNA said, referring to the country by its official name.

'Putin accepted the invitation with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history and tradition of the Russia-DPRK friendship.'

Putin on Wednesday praised the 'strengthening of cooperation and friendship between our countries', while hosting Kim at a spaceport in Russia's far east

Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (L) visit a construction site of the Angara rocket launch complex on Wednesday

During the dinner, a fawning Kim praised the 'heroic' Russian army's 'virtue and honour' on the front lines of Putin's 'sacred struggle' in Ukraine.

Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un's dinner menu Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will be offered a menu including duck and fig salad, crab dumplings, sturgeon and beef with a choice of Russian wines, a Kremlin reporter said on Wednesday. The menu begins with a salad of duck, fig and nectarine followed by Russian 'pelmeni' dumplings made with Kamchatka crab and then a White Amur fish soup and a sorbet from sea buckthorn. For the main course, the leaders have a choice of sturgeon with mushrooms and potatoes or an entrecote of marbled beef with grilled vegetables. For dessert, they will be offered red bilberries from the taiga with pine nuts and condensed milk. White and red wines from the Divnomorskoe manor from southern Russia are offered. Advertisement

In gushing praise for Putin's war, which has seen thousands of Ukrainians killed and entire neighbourhoods destroyed, Kim said he was 'certain' Moscow will win a 'great victory' against Ukraine.

'I am deeply convinced that the heroic Russian army and people will certainly win a great victory in the sacred struggle to punish the gathering of evil,' Kim said as he raised a glass to toast the victory of 'great Russia' during the dinner hosted by Putin.

Kim added that Russia would triumph against 'evil', in what he cast as the West's imperialism in the war in Ukraine.

In response, Putin stood up and raised his glass whilst saying: 'A toast to the future strengthening of cooperation and friendship between our countries.

'For the wellbeing and prosperity of our nations, for the health of the chairman and all of those present.'

'An old friend is better than two new ones,' Putin added, quoting a Russian proverb and referencing the Soviet Union's role in the Korean War.

Kim was speaking after four hours of talks with Putin, during which it is understood they discussed Russia's requirement for artillery shells and anti-tank missiles. In return, North Korea wants the Kremlin to share its submarine and satellite technology secrets.

The leaders met at the Vostochny spaceport in Russia's far eastern Amur region, where Kim was given a tour of the facilities. The despot, who travelled from North Korea on his customised armoured train, is expected to visit other Russian military sites.

Putin said Kim will inspect an aircraft plant at Komsomolsk-on-Amur and ships from Russia's Pacific Fleet in a harbour at Vladivostok.
A retired anaesthetist who sparked fury after telling female NHS surgeons to 'toughen up' amid claims of widespread sexual harassment in the medical profession has defended his remarks, claiming medicine is 'not alone' in having a work-hard culture.

Dr Peter Hilton, 71, said a 'snowflake generation' of young doctors 'clearly did not do their homework' about working in hospitals, after a survey revealed female surgeons have been the target of sexual harassment and assault, even during operations.

The comments in his letter to The Times sparked outrage among women medics but in a subsequent interview with the newspaper, Dr Hilton stood by the remarks. He said 'banter' and 'bullying' occurred in many walks of life, and medics should 'deal with it'.

But he maintained he was 'not condoning sexual harassment', adding that any allegations of criminality should be investigated.

Women NHS surgeons revealed on Tuesday that they have suffered a litany of sexual assaults in the workplace; sickening accounts detailed a man wiping his sweaty brow on a surgeon's breasts and another who rubbed his erect penis against a female colleague.

Roshana Mehdian-Staffell, a trainee trauma and orthopaedic surgeon, spoke of a 'boys' club mentality'

Liz O'Riordan, who was a consultant oncoplastic breast surgeon before retiring four years ago, said she regularly experienced sexual harassment during her career of more than 20 years

Philippa Jackson said she was discussing a patient with a male colleague when he tried to give her a hug, rubbed himself against her and said: 'You probably felt my erection then'

Dr Mehdian-Staffell, a trainee trauma and orthopaedic surgeon, spoke out yesterday about the 'boys' club mentality' within the profession before detailing her experiences

Responding to the letter this morning, the trainee surgeon said 'my mind is actually blown'

Dr Peter Hilton - who served as a consultant anaesthetist between 1986 to 2020 - warned incoming medical students 'four A*s at A-level are not the answer to all the problems they will face'

He said: 'Ive sent the letter to colleagues I worked with and they agree wholeheartedly.

'Medicine is not alone in having a culture of bullying, sexual abuse verbal or otherwise, and banter thats in bad taste.

'You will meet people who are bullies, you will meet people who are misogynistic and do inappropriate things, but deal with it.'

After the letter was published on Wednesday surgeons hit back at the consultant.

Palliative care doctor Rachel Clarke tweeted: '(He) unintentionally shows exactly why disgusting sexual abuse in the NHS still thrives and prospers.'

Female surgeons have taken to X - formerly Twitter - to share their own accounts of sexual harassment in light of Tuesday's study, published by the British Journal of Surgery.

The survey of 1434 surgeons found that almost a third of female surgeons had been sexually assaulted, and two thirds had been sexually harassed.

Roshana Mehdian-Staffell, a trainee trauma and orthopaedic surgeon, spoke out yesterday about the 'boys' club mentality' within the profession before detailing her experiences.

While she was training, a surgeon took her to a satellite clinic in his car and put his hand on her thigh.

In the sluice room, where waste is disposed of, she said: 'I've had people stand behind me and grind themselves into me.'

Responding to Dr Hilton's initial comments, she wrote on X: 'My mind is actually blown. Its stressful so men can and will sexually harass you?'

'He's (and others like him) the reason it went unchallenged for so long', she added.

Former NHS doctor turned comedian Adam Kay said on X: 'The sheer number of messages I got from (old, male) doctors after I published This is Going to Hurt telling me to toughen up was astonishing.

'To think theyd also condone sexual assault is beyond appalling.'

Broadcaster Shelagh Fogarty shared the letter captioned 'Jesus wept'

Palliative care doctor Rachel Clarke said the letter was 'unbelievable' and 'shows exactly why disgusting sexual abuse in the NHS still thrives and prospers'

Former NHS doctor turned comedian Adam Kay said on X: 'To think they also condone sexual assault is beyond appalling'

Almost one in three female surgeons working in the NHS have been sexually assaulted in the last five years, according to a new survey (file image)

Broadcaster Shelagh Fogarty shared the letter, captioning the photo: 'Jesus wept.'

Meanwhile, economist Tony Yates wrote: 'Ethics aside I have to say that as a patient Id prefer that my surgeon not have to face "sexually inappropriate comments and actions" while she is fixing my insides. Thanks.'

Philippa Jackson, a consultant plastic surgeon from Bristol, told The Times she was discussing a patient with a male colleague when he tried to give her a hug.

Frequency of witnessing sexual harassment, sexual assault and rape among colleagues in past five years TYPE WOMEN - YES (%) MEN - YES (%) Harassment: composite 89.5 81 Jokes with sexual content 89 80.6 Displaying sexualized pictures 29.7 19.9 E-comms, unwanted/sexual 26.2 16.1 Physical advances, unwanted/sexual 38.4 14.9 Unwanted/sexual talk 61.8 29.5 Uninvited comments about body 67.3 38.3 Ask for a date despite previous refusal 18 6 Offered career opportunities for sex 8.5 2.7 Threatened for refusing sexual favour 5.5 1.2 Deliberately infringing body space 44.9 17.8 Assault: composite 35.9 17.1 Forced contact for career opportunities. 16.6 2.9 Touching, excluding genitals/breasts 33.2 16.6 Touching of genitals/breasts 6.5 1.6 Self-fondling by perpetrator 1.3 0.3 Rape: composite 1.9 0.6 Rape, workplace 0.6 0.3 Rape, other work contexts 2 0.6

She said: 'He made some noises and rubbed himself against me. And then, as he backed away, he said "You probably felt my erection then," and he also told me he could see down my top.'

Ms Jackson said she did not want to make a fuss because 'we were about to go into theatre and I don't think I had properly registered what had happened'.

Later that evening, she was working with the same colleague who offered to tie up her gown, which is a normal procedure among surgeons.

But she claimed he said 'now you've given me permission to tie you up under any circumstances'  before kissing her on her neck from behind.

She also claimed to have 'no faith in the system' to protect her from attackers like the colleague who assaulted her.

Liz O'Riordan, who was a consultant oncoplastic breast surgeon before retiring four years ago, said she regularly experienced sexual harassment during her career of more than 20 years.

She told The Times: 'It was usually in theatre, when you're operating next to your boss, your superiors, and your peers. You're wearing thin cotton scrubs and you have full body contact.'

Ms O'Riordan, who has previously written about her experiences in The Mail on Sunday, added she also had a 'fear of speaking out when your job depends on the training and references from the person harassing you'.

One said: 'You've got short trousers on  make sure you always wear them because your ankles are really sexy.'

Another surgeon claimed she was sexually assaulted by a consultant who wiped his sweaty brow on her breasts.

The woman, named only as Judith, was 'humiliated' by her colleague who 'smirked' after she suggested getting him a towel and told her: 'No, this is much more fun.'

The report in the British Journal of Surgery concluded: 'Sexual misconduct occurs frequently and appears to go unchecked in the surgical environment owing to a combination of a deeply hierarchical structure and a gender and power imbalance.

'The result is an unsafe working environment and an unsafe space for patients.'

Dr Binta Sultan, who chairs NHS England's national clinical network of sexual assault and abuse services, said the report presented 'clear evidence' that action was needed to make hospitals a safer environment.

She told the BBC: 'We are already taking significant steps to do this, including through commitments to provide more support and clear reporting mechanisms to those who have suffered harassment or inappropriate behaviour.'

Tim Mitchell, president of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, said such behaviour had 'no place... anywhere in the NHS'. He described it as 'abhorrent', adding: 'We will not tolerate such behaviour in our ranks.'

The Department of Health and Social Care said: 'The Health and Social Care Secretary is clear that sexual violence or misconduct of any kind is unacceptable and has no place in the NHS.

'He is working closely with NHS leaders to root out this unacceptable behaviour and ensure services are always safe for staff and patients.

'In partnership with the Royal Colleges, staff, regulators and trade unions, the NHS recently launched the healthcare system's first organisational sexual safety charter.

'Signatories commit to taking and enforcing a zero-tolerance approach to any unwanted, inappropriate and/or harmful sexual behaviours within the workplace.'
Travellers are on high alert after seven people died from a mystery illness in Fiji and a further 72 locals were hospitalised with 'severe diarrhoea'.

The deaths occurred on the main island, Vita Levu, which is home to Fiji's biggest towns, Suva, Nadi and Lautoka and several major tourist attractions.

On September 11 it was confirmed seven people died in the sugar cane farming community of Nukuloa in the province of Ba, on Vita Levu.

The government confirmed 72 people were hospitalised from a 'diarrhoea illness' in August and September at the inland town of Balevuto, an hour's drive from Lautoka.

While no cases have been reported at tourist hotspots so far, travellers are urged to exercise extreme caution.

Last year 345,000 Australians went to Fiji. The pacific nation is consistently in the top 10 holiday destinations for Aussies.

Travellers to Fiji have been warned to carefully follow local health advice after the deaths of seven people and the hospitalisation of 72 more amid a gastro outbreak

Fiji's government has so far claimed seven local deaths are unrelated to another 72 cases of 'diarrhoea illness' which occurred at the Ba town of Balevuto. Pictured: the biggest town in Ba, Lautoka

READ MORE: Warning over gastro bug spread through sex Victorians were warned about a wave of particularly nasty gastro infections in July which are resistant to antibiotics and can be spread through sex. The infections were caused by Shigellosis, which is suspected as a cause of hospitalisations in Fiji. Advertisement

Authorities said at least one of the hopsitalised patients case is suspected to have contracted shigellosis, a highly contagious bowel infection which can be spread through sex.

The patients presented to medical services with 'loose bowel motions, with or without blood in stool, with fever, abdominal pain or vomiting'.

The gastrointestinal illness shows no signs of slowing with 18 people admitted to hospitals in the past three days, amid widespread fears of water contamination in Fiji.

So far Fiji's government has denied the fatalities and the gastro cases are linked, but Nukuloa residents are refusing to drink the town's tap water.

Patient samples are being flown to a reference laboratory in Melbourne.

Lautoka is Fiji's second biggest town and the gateway to the popular Suncoast and the Koroyanitu National Heritage Park.

Tourists are also encouraged to visit small Fijian villages where locals can guide them to spectacular waterfalls.

Symptoms of Shigellosis include acute onset of diarrhoea, fever, nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps.

'The Ministry Health and Medical Services has four teams on the ground actively monitoring the situation, and contingency plans are in place to expedite or escalate our response if necessary,' a Fiji government statement said.

'The Government remains committed to ensuring the safety and health of our communities, and we will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves.'

New Zealand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said travellers to Fiji should follow local health warnings take hygiene precautions.

Fijian authorities have urged anyone experiencing nausea, vomiting, fever, headaches, bloating and flatulence, abdominal pain or loss of appetite to 'promptly seek medical attention'.

The government 'implored' people in Balevuto and nearby areas, to boil drinking water and wash their hands with soap and water before and after meals, as well as after visiting the toilet.

Fiji's government has so far said the seven deaths are unrelated to the 72 hospitalised locals

Shigellosis, a highly contagious type of bowel infection, which includes acute onset of diarrhoea, fever, nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps is suspected in at least one case. Pictured: the shigella bacteria

Treatment includes fluids, oral rehydration drinks and antibiotics in more serious cases - to which the strains recently appearing are resistant.

The infection is self-limiting lasting about five to seven days but complications such as reactive arthritis and sepsis can occur in groups such as immunocompromised people.

Shigellosis patients remain highly contagious for up to four weeks.

Australia's Smart Traveller website warns that 'Medical care standards in Fiji aren't as high as in Australia'.

'Medical facilities often lack services, equipment and drugs. You may have to pay up-front. If you're seriously ill or injured, youll need medical evacuation to Australia.'

Daily Mail Australia has approached the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for comment.
The German native is currently in prison for the rape of a woman, 72, in Portugal

The prime suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann has written begging letters to his former friends asking them to talk about what a 'good guy' he is in court in a bid to clear his name, it has been claimed.

Christian Brueckner, a convicted rapist, moaned in one letter to a friend that prosecutors were making him out to be a 'monster'.

Brueckner, who prosecutors say is responsible for Madeleine's 2007 kidnap and murder, begged two of his friends to support him in court if he has to stand trial on separate rape and child sex charges.

'I know of two people who got the messages from Chris,' Brueckner's former friend who is still in touch with those who knew Brueckner in the Algarve told the Mirror.

'It really freaked them out. They hadn't heard from him in years and then these letters suddenly arrived in the post from Germany.'

Christian Brueckner, the prime suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann has written begging letters to his former friends asking them to talk about what a 'good guy' he is in court in bid to clear his name, it has been claimed.

For more than a decade, her anguished parents Gerry and Kate (pictured together in 2017) have waited in vain for any news - any clue - that their little girl is somehow alive after all this time

The German suspect had lived in a warehouse outside Praia da Luz for several years but moved into a campervan just before Madeleine vanished

The source added: 'He was asking them to speak in his defence, about what a good guy he is. He said the German police and prosecutors have it in for him, that they are saying he is a monster.

READ MORE: Who is Christian Brueckner? The German Madeleine Mccann suspect and sex offender Advertisement

'It's outrageous for Chris to ask for help because now we all know about his past. Back when we were hanging with him in the early 2000s it was all a secret. We didn't know he was a paedophile. But now he doesn't stand a chance of anybody speaking up for him in court.'

Brueckner is currently languishing in a German prison for the rape of a 72-year-old American tourist in Portugal just 18 months before Madeleine was abducted.

His trial heard he planned the sex attack having broken into the victim's house with a rope to tie her up. She was blindfolded and gagged before being raped and robbed.

Last year, he was named as the key suspect in the disappearance and murder of Madeleine, who vanished from her family's holiday apartment in the Algarve resort of Praia da Luz in May 2007 - just a few days before her fourth birthday. But he has still not been charged regarding her abduction and he denies his involvement.

Brueckner was charged in several separate cases involving sexual offenses allegedly committed in Portugal between 2000 and 2017, including the rape and sexual abuse of two children.

Although the court in Braunschweig due to issues relating to jurisdiction, it is understood Brueckner could still be charged with the same offences in a different court in Germany.

And in preparation for a potential trial, he has written letters to at least two former friends begging them for support.

Madeleine vanished from a rented holiday apartment in Praia da Luz in Portugal on May 3, 2007, during a family holiday.

Her parents Kate and Gerry McCann, from Rothley, Leicestershire, spearheaded a high-profile campaign for information about her disappearance.

The case, unsolved for the past 16 years, remains a mystery as no body has ever been found.

In June, German forensic experts searched a reservoir 30 miles from Praia da Luz as part of their ongoing investigation. Bruecker had called the Arade reservoir his 'little paradise' after receiving 'certain tip-offs'.

The reservoir is located near the town of Silves, where a lorry driver had claimed to see a woman passing off a child resembling Madeleine's description to a man two days after the toddler disappeared.

Investigators cleared a large area of woodland at the reservoir and dug eight deep holes to collect samples, which were sent for forensic and DNA testing in Germany.

But German police have reportedly hit a 'roadblock' after being left 'disappointed' over the items they found during the search of the reservoir.

The reservoir lies about 45 minutes from Praia da Luz - where Madeleine vanished without a trace in 2007 aged three

An area of around 160 square feet had been flattened and cleared of grass and shrubs with several holes dug into the ground to a depth of around two feet during the latest Madeleine McCann search in the Algarve, Portugal, on May 25, 2023

German prosecutor Hans Christian Wolters, who is leading the case, confirmed that a 'number of items' were seized during the search.

However, sources have now told The Sun that the items retrieved have not helped them in their efforts to solve the 16-year mystery.

A source told the paper: 'Sadly, it's looking increasingly like the search of the reservoir will not provide any answers or fresh leads.

'It's too strong to say it was a waste of time, but officers are naturally really disappointed.'

The three-day scour of the reservoir was the first major search for the toddler in nine years and comes after German police discovered photos of Brueckner at his self-described 'little paradise' in the Portuguese region, it is understood.

Brueckner would camp by the reservoir at weekends and is understood to have set up a base there to 'cleanse himself', it emerged last month.

A former friend of Brueckner, who has lived on Algarve for nearly 30 years and has been helping police with their investigation, claims the criminal would visit the reservoir 'often' but was 'always secretive about it'.

The German mother-of-three, whose identity has not been made public, recalled how Brueckner would drive his campervan to the edge of the lake because he 'liked to be near the water'.

She claimed he always camped in the same location and 'there was usually no one else around'.

'This was his exact special spot that he said he liked to come to cleanse himself,' she said of his campsite, telling The Sun: 'I don't know what he did there as he was very secretive.'

Details of Brueckner's secret lair came to light as a British couple told The Mail on Sunday how they spotted a bizarre 'shrine' to Madeleine in the reservoir just seven months after she vanished.

Christian Brueckner, 45, would camp in the Barragem do Arade reservoir where cops searched for clues in Madeline McCann missing persons case. The convicted rapist and paedophile is understood to have built a circle out of stones from the water (pictured)

Pictured: Christian Brueckner was filmed at the wheel of a battered VW campervan weeks before Madeleine was kidnapped

Brueckner was officially named as a suspect in April 2022 after his yellow and white VW T3 Westfalia campervan was reportedly spotted near the Praia da Luz resort

The retired couple, who have asked to be named only as Ralf and Ann, were so disturbed by what they saw they took pictures and sent them to Portuguese detectives, thinking they were of significance but, amazingly, never heard back.

Consisting of boulders in the shape of an arrow pointing towards a picnic site which was dug over by police last week, the makeshift memorial was weighed down by a large rock and had a bouquet of flowers and a photograph of abducted Madeleine on it.

Meanwhile, reports claim that phone records place Brueckner in the town on the night she vanished and that his yellow and white Volkswagen Westfalia campervan was spotted near the Algarve resort.

In 2020, authorities revealed a phonecall had located Christian Brueckner in Praia da Luz, where he lived from 1997 until 2007, around the time of Madeleine's disappearance.

They traced the call and found it connected to the mast owned by the resort complex where the family had stayed.

Brueckner had lived in a warehouse outside the village for several years but moved into a VW campervan just before Madeleine vanished.

A Mail on Sunday investigation later found that Brueckner stayed in an old house in nearby Foral between 2007 and 2008 - after Madeleine's disappearance.

That year, it was revealed that a witness claimed to have spotted Madeleine getting into a German-owned VW van with a man just weeks after her disappearance.

A police file detailed how a witness believed that had seen Madeleine emerging from a restaurant in the Spanish seaside town of Alcossebre in eastern Spain, before climbing into the van with an unidentified man.
A baby girl has died after being left in a car on a Portuguese university campus for several hours in 26 degree heat.

The 10-month-old child's father, described locally as a lecturer and departmental head at the campus near Lisbon, is believed to have forgotten to drop her off at the creche before going to work and leaving her in the vehicle.

He reportedly called 999 after realising his tragic error and discovering the youngster unconscious inside the car.

Efforts to revive her proved unsuccessful and she was pronounced dead at the scene.

The unnamed father is said to have parked the family SEAT Ateca car by the campus creche around 8am on Tuesday before going to work at his office in the Nova School of Science and Technology, a faculty of the NOVA University Lisbon located at the Caparica Campus in Almada a half-hour drive south of the Portuguese capital.

The father, described locally as a lecturer at the Nova School of Science and Technology near Lisbon (pictured), rang 999 after discovering his 10-month-old unconscious in the car

The unnamed father is said to have parked the family SEAT Ateca car by the campus creche around 8am on Tuesday, he did not return to the car until 3.30pm

The alarm was not raised until 3.30pm when it was already too late to save the youngster's life.

Investigators are understood to be working on the theory the baby girl, who Portuguese press say was called Madalena, was asleep when she was left and her dad simply forgot she was there.

The outside 26C heat would have meant temperatures inside the locked vehicle may have been double that.

The girl's parents, including her mother who reportedly reached the scene around the time emergency responders arrived, have been offered psychological support.

Autopsy results are yet to be released and are not expected to be made public.

The Policia Judiciaria police force in the city of Setubal near Almada is conducting an ongoing investigation.

Prosecutors confirmed yesterday a criminal probe had been launched.

A three-year-old boy died in the municipality of O Porrino near the city of Pontevedra in Spain's north-west Galician region in July after his mum 'forgot' he was in the back of her car and left him unattended for several hours in eighty degree heat to go to work.

The youngster is said to have been left alone in the vehicle for six hours before anyone realised.

In August 2018 a 10-month-old baby girl died in the Majorcan town of Manacor after her grandfather left her in the back of his car for eight hours in temperatures of up to 30C (86F) after forgetting to leave her at a nursery school.

He found her dead when he returned to the vehicle after running errands several hours later. The unnamed man later accepted a year's prison sentence in March 2020.
One of President Joe Biden's top advisors was left red-faced as he stumbled through a straight-forward question about the commander-in-chief's consistent misleading claims during a press conference on Wednesday.

The president's latest gaffe, which occurred on Monday, saw Biden incorrectly say that he was at Ground Zero on September 12, the day after the attack.

Strategic Communications Coordinator for the National Security Council John Kirby was thrust forward by the administration for a press briefing when he was asked a blunt question by Jeff Mordock of the Washington Times.

'In the past couple of weeks, the president has lied about being at Ground Zero the day after the September 11th attacks, falsely claimed he saw the Pittsburgh bridge collapse, claimed his grandfather died in the hospital days before his birth,' Mordock began.

'What is going on with the president? Is he just believing things that didnt happen did happen, or is he just randomly making stuff up? What is going on with the president?,' the reporter asked.

The president's latest gaffe, which occurred on Monday, saw Biden incorrectly say that he was at Ground Zero on September 12, the day after the attack

Kirby smirked as the question was asked and then ignored the premise, discussing instead the president's gratitude at being able to spend 9/11 with military servicemembers in Alaska this year and that Biden was deeply moved when he did visit Ground Zero a full week after the 9/11 attack in 2001.

'And hes focused on making sure that an attack like that never happens again, which is why weve improved our over-the-horizon counterterrorism capability and why we continue to hold terrorist networks accountable,' Kirby, who has been called to testify in House Republicans' withdrawal investigation, added.

'And its why he spent so much time last week shoring up our national security interests in a vital part of the world on issues that arent necessarily tied to terrorism, but very much tied to our ability to secure peace and prosperity there and around the world,' the retired United States rear admiral said.

Following Kirby's rambling and unfocused answer, Mordock flatly asked the question again. 'But he's had a string of saying things that happened didn't, things are easily debunked. Why does he keep doing that?'

'The president was grateful to spend that time with those family members and those troops,' Kirby answered.

Biden made his claim about witnessing the bridge collapse in Pittsburgh during a speech on the economy in August.

'A lot of you were with me when I was in Pittsburgh. And, by the way, the  Pittsburgh is the "City of Bridges." More bridges in Pittsburgh than any other city in America. I watched that bridge collapse. I got there and saw it collapse. With over 200 feet off the ground, going over a valley, and it collapsed,' Biden said.

'The president was grateful to spend that time with those family members and those troops,' Kirby answered when asked about the president's misstatements

An overhead shot of the two-lane span, on Forbes Avenue over Fern Hollow Creek in Frick Park- one of Pittsburgh's largest parks- came down around 7am in January 2022, taking multiple vehicles with it

The collapse happened a full six hours before Biden made an appearance at the scene

In reality, the collapse occurred at 7am on January 28, 2022. Biden visited the site of the collapse at 1pm that day. He was due in the area for a speech on infrastructure.

The other instance raised by Mordock stems from the same event in which Biden said: 'And, by the way, my Grandpop Biden, who died very young  he was  died in the hospital I was born in six days before I was there, I mean before I was born.'

He told the same story in April 2023.

In fact, Biden's grandfather, oil executive Joseph Harry Biden, died in a hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, in September 1941. Biden was not born until more than 12 months later and 200 miles away in Scranton.

His maternal grandfather, Ambrose Finnegan, died at the same hospital where Biden was born but not until the president was 14 years old in 1957.

The awkward exchange between Mordock and Kirby came just before Rep. Nancy Pelosi also gave a classic non-answer to Anderson Cooper during an interview on Wednesday night.

Pelosi, 83, was asked if she thought 'there's any chance (Biden) does not continue running,' Pelosi gave a less-than-definitive: 'I hope not, I hope not.'

It got worse when Pelosi was asked if Vice President Kamala Harris was 'the best running mate for this president.'

She answered: 'He thinks so, and that's what matters. She's very politically astute. I don't think people give her enough credit. Her values are consistent with the president's values. Why would she be vice president if she were not?'

Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi appeared to hedge a bit when asked if she felt Vice President Kamala Harris should be on the ticket in 2024, only saying that President Biden 'thinks so and that's what matters'

'He thinks so, and that's what matters,' Pelosi said. 'She's very politically astute. I don't think people give her enough credit'

Pushed again by Cooper - Pelosi still dodged the question, but began to smile, giggle and even raise her eyes conspiratorially as she spoke. The CNN star was off-camera at the time and it's unclear if he did something to amuse her.

Speaking through a smile, Pelosi said: 'She's the vice president of the United States. People say to me, well, why isn't she doing this or that? I say, because she's the vice president. That's the job description. You don't do that much.'

Ultimately, Pelosi did have some praise for Harris' job performance.

'You know, you're a source of strength, inspiration, intellectual resource and the rest and I think she's represented our country very well at home and abroad.'

Pelosi also laughed off a David Ignatius column in the Jeff Bezos-owned Washington Post that challenged both Harris and her boss, writing: 'President Biden should not run again in 2024.'

Ignatius largely praises Biden's first years in office, claiming the Democrat has 'governed from the center out' and done a good job with foreign policy in supporting Ukraine.

However, he says not just Biden but Vice President Kamala Harris should avoid running in 2024.

'It's painful to say that, given my admiration for much of what they have accomplished. But if he and Harris campaign together in 2024, I think Biden risks undoing his greatest achievement - which was stopping Trump.'

He cited disastrous poll numbers for Biden in terms of approval rating and the public's opinion of his age.

A Wall Street Journal poll out Monday had similar findings, with 73 percent of voters saying Biden is too old to run again, including two-thirds of Democrats.

Harris dismissed concerns and said Biden was ready to serve as president until January 2025.

'First of all, let me say that our president has been an extraordinary leader who has accomplished things that previous presidents hoped and dreamed and promised they would do and did not achieve,' she said.

'So yes, I see him every day, a substantial amount of time we spend together is in the Oval Office, where I see how his ability to understand issues and weave through complex issues in a way that no one else can, to make smart and important decisions on behalf of the American people, have played out,' Harris continued.

'And so I will say to you, that I think the American people ultimately want to know that their president delivers - and Joe Biden delivers,' the VP added.

Harris also answered in the affirmative when Megerian asked if she was prepared to serve as president.

'Yes,' she said.
A row has broken out over two 'alien corpses' that were presented in Mexico this week, with an American UFO specialist criticizing the 'unsubstantiated stunt'.

The corpses were unveiled to a stunned Mexican congress by journalist and UFO enthusiast Jaime Maussan and forensic scientist Dr Jose Zalce Benitez.

But the presentation sparked a swift backlash with Navy Lt Ryan Graves, who has participated in US Congressional hearings about Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP), calling it a 'huge step backwards'.

In a follow-up press conference today, Mr Maussan said he was disappointed by the comments, while Dr Benitez challenged scientists to take samples of the alleged alien bodies and conduct their own studies.

He also warned sceptics calling the 'discovery' a hoax to be mindful that their claims could destroy his life's work.

The two 'alien corpses' were unveiled to a stunned Mexican congress this week

Navy Lt. Ryan Graves, who has taken part in US Congressional hearings about Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP), called the presentation a 'huge step backwards'

Mr Maussan testified under oath before Mexican lawmakers that 'we are not alone' in the universe and displayed the alleged remains of non-human beings.

In the hearing on Tuesday on FANI, politicians were shown two artefacts by the journalist, who claimed they were the corpses of extraterrestrials.

The specimens were not related to any life on Earth, Mr Maussan said.

Poll Do you believe we're not alone in the universe? Yes - the truth is out there No - it's just us I'm still waiting for proof Do you believe we're not alone in the universe? Yes - the truth is out there 106 votes

No - it's just us 26 votes

I'm still waiting for proof 57 votes Now share your opinion





The two tiny 'bodies,' displayed in cases, have three fingers on each hand and elongated heads. Mr Maussan said they were recovered in Peru near the ancient Nazca Lines in 2017. He said that they were about 1,000 years old, analyzed through a carbon dating process by Mexico's National Autonomous University (UNAM).

But sceptics questioned the authenticity of his presentation, with Lt Graves writing on X: 'After the U.S. Congressional UFO hearing, I accepted an invitation to testify before the Mexican Congress hoping to keep up the momentum of government interest in pilot experiences with UAP.

'Unfortunately, yesterday's demonstration was a huge step backwards for this issue. My testimony centered on sharing my experience and the UAP reports I hear from commercial and military aircrew through ASA's witness program.

'I will continue to raise awareness of UAP as an urgent matter of aerospace safety, national security, and science, but I am deeply disappointed by this unsubstantiated stunt.'

Graves wrote after the hearing that he was 'disappointed by this unsubstantiated stunt'

Mexican journalist and UFO expert Jaime Maussan observes the 'non-human' beings before a press conference

The bodies shown at congress were roughly humanoid in shape. But a retractable neck and long skull show characteristics more 'typical of birds', El Pais reported

The body, presented in a glass box, was seen with three fingers on its hand

They were also found to have strong, light bones and no teeth, the presenters said

Mr Maussan said that while similar such finds in the past have turned out to be the remains of mummified children, this was the first time such evidence had been presented.

He added: 'I think there is a clear demonstration that we are dealing with non-human specimens that are not related to any other species in our world and that all possibilities are open for any scientific institution... to investigate it. We are not alone.'

Dr Benitez said X-rays, 3-D reconstruction and DNA analysis had been carried out on the remains and added: 'I can affirm that these bodies have no relation to human beings.'

The bodies shown at congress were roughly humanoid in shape. But a retractable neck and long skull show characteristics more 'typical of birds', El Pais reported.

They were also found to have strong, light bones and no teeth, the presenters said.

Experts in congress showed apparent X-rays of the specimens and said that one of the beings carried 'eggs' with embryos inside them.

They said they had implants of cadmium and osmium metals.

Osmium is one of the most scarce elements in the Earth's crust and considered the rarest precious metal.

Researchers are said to have carbon dated the remains and found they were more than 1,000 years old

Researchers made the extraordinary claim that the corpses, recovered from Peru had a genetic composition 30 per cent removed from that of human beings

Photo shows an annotated close-up of the body during Tuesday's presentation in Mexico

UNAM on Thursday republished a statement first issued in 2017, saying the work by its National Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry with Accelerators (LEMA) was only intended to determine the age of the samples.

'In no case do we make conclusions about the origin of said samples,' it said.

Mexican lawmakers also heard from Lt Graves, who gave testimony earlier this year on 'UAP' sightings and government classification. He made claims in July about the threat UAPs pose to America's national security.

Lt Graves claimed UFOs were an 'open secret' in the military and testified his squadron regularly detected unidentified objects while stationed near Virginia in 2014.

Congressman Sergio Gutierrez said he hoped the hearing would be the first of other similar events in Mexico.

'We are left with reflections, with concerns and with the path to continue talking about this,' Mr Gutierrez said.

In recent years, the US government has done a U-turn on public information on UAP after decades of stonewalling and deflecting.

The Pentagon has been actively investigating reported sightings in recent years by military aviators, while an independent Nasa panel studying UFOs is the first of its kind by the space agency.

Journalist and UFO researcher Jaime Maussan speaks during a briefing on unidentified flying objects, known as UFOs, in Mexico City

The row comes as Nasa prepares to release the findings of a long-awaited study on unexplained flying objects in Earth's skies.

The US space agency announced last year that it was reviewing evidence regarding UAPs - which has replaced the term 'UFO' in official parlance.

The subject has long fascinated the public but was shunned by mainstream science.

An independent team of 16 researchers shared their preliminary observations in May, finding that existing data and eyewitness reports are insufficient to draw firm conclusions, while calling for more systematic collection of high-quality data.

It's unlikely Thursday's report will change that bottom line - but it could eventually usher in the start of a new mission for the agency.

While Nasa's probes and rovers scour the solar system for any fossils of ancient microbes, and its astronomers look for signs of intelligent civilisations on distant planets, its historic posture has been to 'debunk' sightings on our home planet.

There have been more than 800 'events' collected over 27 years, of which 2 to 5 per cent are thought to be possibly anomalous, the report's authors said during the May meeting.

These are defined as 'anything that is not readily understandable by the operator or the sensor,' or 'something that is doing something weird,' said team member Nadia Drake.

Experts including congressman Sergio Gutierrez, Lt Ryan Graves and Jaime Maussan attend a briefing on unidentified flying objects

The US government has begun taking the issue of UAPs more seriously in recent years, in part due to concerns that they are related to foreign surveillance.

Nasa's work, which relies on unclassified material, is separate from a Pentagon investigation, though the two are coordinating on matters of how to apply scientific tools and methods.

In July, a former US intelligence officer made headlines when he told a congressional committee he 'absolutely' believes the government is in possession of unidentified anomalous phenomena - as well as remains of their alien operators.

'My testimony is based on information I've been given by individuals with a longstanding track record of legitimacy and service to this country - many of whom also shared compelling evidence in the form of photography, official documentation and classified oral testimony,' David Grusch told lawmakers.
A postman has been hailed as a 'hero' for confronting a hoon doing burnouts in a park driving a heavily modified, unregistered car.

Footage captured by local woman Susan Lacey shows the revhead recklessly driving in a white car with both Holden and Ford badges and a homemade number plate that reads 'EL FORTE' with the location 'Mexico - the burnout state'.

The postman on his daily route near the Elizabeth South train station, in northeast Adelaide on Wednesday morning, approached the man and recorded the incident on his phone before the car became bogged on the soft soil.

The hoon quickly left the car with a hood over his head as the postman calls him a 'f***ing idiot'.

'Why would you do that for mate?' the postman asks the driver shortly after his vehicle had come to a stop.

Leaping out of the car, the driver rushes the postman who was still on his motorbike causing him to fall off.

The hoon then took the time to laugh while the postie was still on the ground.

'You're the one that tripped you silly c**t,' the driver yelled as he scampered away leaving his car behind.

Ms Lacey praised the postie for putting himself in harms way.

'You don't know what these people might do to us when we stand our ground and protect the neighbourhood,' Ms Lacey said.

She went on to praise the postie, describing him as 'the hero for the day' for his efforts.

A postman has been hailed as a 'hero' for confronting a hoon doing burnouts in a park driving a heavily modified, unregistered car

Footage captured by local woman Susan Lacey shows the revhead recklessly driving in a white car with both Holden and Ford badges and a homemade number plate that reads 'EL FORTE' with the location ' Mexico - the burnout state'
A tourist in Egypt has lost an arm in a horrific shark attack after allegedly mistaking the predator for a tuna fish.

The female tourist, reportedly from Alexandria, had to have her left arm amputated after she was bitten while swimming with a friend.

She was rescued from the sea unconscious and was taken to hospital. Her condition was later described as 'stable'.

Reports say swimmers on Laguna Beach in Dahab initially mistook a shark for a tuna.

Video showed the dramatic moment of her rescue as she was rushed to an ambulance.

Beachgoers fled from the sea after the attack at the Dahab resort, about 36 miles north of Sharm el-Sheikh.

The woman was filmed being carried away from the beach and was later taken to hospital

The woman was taken away from the beach at the popular Red Sea resort in Egypt

A two-hour search with harpoons failed to locate the shark despite sightings, according to reports.

The beach in south Sinai was closed by the authorities in the wake of the attack.

A shark had been seen in waters off the Egyptian resort of Dahab in August, which led to a temporary ban on swimming at the time but it had since re-opened.

The attack on the woman follows an incident in June when Russian tourist Vladimir Popov, 23, was mauled to death by a tiger shark in Hurghada.

One theory is that he was killed by a predator that had also fatally attacked tourists a year earlier.

Tourists watched in horror from the shore as the beast wounded the man before dragging him under the water. His distraught girlfriend managed to escape.

The tourist was on a long stay in Egypt and had moved to a resort with his father several months ago.

His father watched the fatal attack in horror, which was also filmed from the shore.

File image shows a Caribbean reef shark. The woman in Egypt lost her arm after the attack

A two-hour search of the area (pictured) did not find the search, even after reported sightings

In July last year, 68-year-old Austrian Elisabeth Sauer was attacked in front of horrified onlookers - 15 minutes after English-speaking guests warned Egyptian lifeguards about sharks

A second woman, identified only as a Romanian national in her 40s, is thought to have been killed in a similar attack just 650ft away from where Sauer died, with her badly disfigured remains found on a nearby reef the same day.
Keir Starmer was accused of wanting to make Britain a 'dumping ground' for the EU's unwanted migrants today as he launched a tour designed to show him as PM-in-waiting.

The Labour leader rolled the dice on the key election battleground as he visited The Hague - and the HQ of Europol, which the UK left due to Brexit.

But Sir Keir was accused of an 'open door' approach that could mean taking 100,000 asylum seekers from Greece and Italy as he suggested Britain could 'burden share' with the bloc.

In a round of interviews, he insisted that the plan would help stop the Channel boats, saying he wanted to treat people smugglers like terrorists.

However, Germany has backed out of an EU resettlement scheme - raising questions about whether the idea is even plausible.

The trip comes ahead of a visit to Paris next week, where Sir Keir will hold talks with Emmanuel Macron - defying normal diplomatic protocol. He is expected to see the French president shortly before King Charles makes his long-awaited first state visit.

Sir Keir is also expected to meet Justin Trudeau on a trip to Canada for a centre-left political summit next week.

Keir Starmer rolled the dice on the key election battleground of immigration as he visited The Hague (pictured with shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper) - and the HQ of Europol, which the UK left due to Brexit

Sir Keir is trying to outflank the Tories on the critical issue of immigration

Home Secretary Suella Braverman said Sir Keir would make Britain the 'dumping ground' for the EU's unwanted migrants

The trip comes ahead of a visit to Paris next week, where he will hold talks with Emmanuel Macron - defying normal diplomatic protocol

Labour is promising to 'smash' the criminal gangs responsible for smuggling thousands of migrants across the Channel.

The party wants a deal with the EU that could allow the UK to return some migrants who are deemed to have no claim here.

But in return, Sir Keir is willing to open negotiations about joining an EU 'burden sharing' system designed to relocate hundreds of thousands of migrants who land in Greece, Italy and other countries.

The controversial move could see the UK obliged to find homes for thousands of migrants who cross the Mediterranean in search of a new life in Europe.

Sir Keir declined to be drawn on how many people could be involved.

But the government said that if the system was calculated on a population basis, the UK could have been asked to take more than 100,000 of the one million migrants who landed in the EU last year.

Mr Sunak told reporters during a visit to Devon: 'Keir Starmer spent all of this year voting against our stop-the-boats Bill, the toughest legislation that any government has passed to tackle illegal migration.

'I think he spent most of last year voting against a previous Bill which has since then led to almost 700 arrests related to organised immigration crime, so I don't think it's credible that he really wants to grip this problem.

'And his plans today seem to amount to saying that we might one day accept 100,000 EU migrants every year. That doesn't seem like a credible plan to me to stop the boats.'

Home Secretary Suella Braverman said: 'Finally we see Sir Keir Starmer's migration plan. He'll let Brussels decide who comes to the UK.

'He'll agree to make Britain the dumping ground for many of the millions of illegal migrants that Europe doesn't want. And none of this will stop the boats.'

Sir Keir described the criticism as 'nonsense' and told ITV's Good Morning Britain his main aim was ensuring that people did not make it across the English Channel in the first place.

'The first stage is how do you work with police forces across countries to ensure that you stop people getting into the boats in the first place, and smash this vile trade.

'And that is about working here in Europol, working across Europe, to ensure that the criminals are brought down, that they are treated in the same way that we treat terrorists. So that's stage one.

'The question of whether people can then be returned only applies if people are still getting across the channel and what I want to do is to stop this trade, stop this vile business in the first place.'

Sir Keir scrambled to quell concerns that he was intending to reverse Brexit entirely.

'There is no return to freedom of movement. We have left the EU,' he said.

'There's no case for going back to the EU, no case for going into the single market or customs union and no freedom of movement. I've been really clear that that's the parameter.

'I do not accept that that prevents us working with other police units here, with prosecutors here, to smash the gangs in this vile trade.'

Channel migrants are brought ashore by the RNLI in Dover, Kent

Sir Keir and Ms Cooper preparing for their meetings in The Hague today

The controversial 'burden sharing' scheme was set up to relieve pressure on Italy, Greece, Cyprus and Malta, where most migrants heading for the EU first arrive.

But it has met fierce resistance from some countries, particularly in eastern Europe. Several EU countries, including Poland, Hungary, Austria, Denmark, Latvia and Slovakia, have resisted efforts by Brussels to make them take more migrants arriving elsewhere in the EU.

Immigration minister Robert Jenrick said: 'The truth is Labour are totally unprepared to make the tough, but necessary decisions to stop the boats.

'Their plan is to take 100,000+ migrants from the safety of the EU and (fingers crossed) this stops others. They treat the valid concerns of the British public with utter disdain.'

A Tory source said: 'Finally, we get to see Sir Keir Starmer's plan for illegal migration  he'll make it legal.

'He'll ignore the will of the British people to cut numbers, and instead cut a deal with the EU that would commit us to taking our 'fair share' of however many illegal migrants enter Europe each year.

'That number was nearly one million people last year and is projected to rise this year.

'No wonder Starmer has tried to keep his plan a secret from the public  it's open borders by the back door.'
A former IBM executive has ignited outrage by saying that he went on to fire the co-worker who saved his life, after she had advised him against taking one of the flights which was hijacked on 9/11.

People reacting to his recollection, posted on the tragedy's 22nd anniversary, have told Bill Elmore he 'should be ashamed.'

The former tech company exec said that he eventually fired the colleague, on instruction from his boss, for 'poor performance.'

But one unsympathetic X (formerly Twitter) user commented: 'I don't care what your boss says or what she says. You should be ashamed of yourself.'

Ellmore, without revealing the name of his former co-worker, had said that he understood she had gone on to have a successful career elsewhere.

Bill Ellmore has revealed that he went on to fire the co-worker who advised him against one of the flights hijacked on 9/11. Pictured: American Airlines Flight 175 heads towards the World Trade Center's south tower as the north tower burns

X (formerly Twitter) users did not react well to the former IBM executive's revelation

The former tech exec (pictured) was booked onto flight 93, which was intended to be crashed into Washington's Capitol building

Another commenter encouraged him to 'make sure you always include the part about you screwing over the person who saved you,' after his original post omitted this detail.

Another quipped: 'Now I've been introduced to Bill Ellmore, I'm looking forward to Bill El-less.'

Ellmore had started: 'I was booked on United Flight 93 on 9/11, 2001. Around midnight the night before, a coworker called me urging me to change my flight to fly into San Jose instead.

'This meant I had to give up my 1st class seat and move to a flight that left 20 minutes later (from the same gate) with a stopover in Denver. I was very reluctant but I did it.'

Having seen passengers board the doomed aircraft, Ellmore's flight was grounded just before takeoff, as those on board watched the shocking scenes on the other side of Hudson River from their runway.

Ellmore, who left IBM in 2019 according to his LinkedIn, claimed that he found the experience life-changing.

'I changed that day,' he said, 'Ive had two children since 9/11 and went to multiple mission trips to war torn countries. Every day I wake up breathing is another gift from God.'

Ellmore detailed the story beneath his tribute to the victims of the attack on the tragedy's 22nd anniversary

He told Daily Dot: 'I dont take life for granted any more.'

He also told the publication of the moment that he realized his would-be plane had crashed.

'Just as I pulled into my driveway behind my wife who was returning from a yoga class, they reported it was United Flight 93,' he said.

'I physically couldnt get out of my car. I felt faint and my legs wouldnt move.'

He added on X that his co-worker had taken the original route the previous day and deemed it too long for her boss to arrive at his Mountain View meeting on time, which Ellmore said was 'not the first or last error she made.'

He revealed the unfortunate development in the tale after one X (formerly Twitter) user asked 'what ever happened' to the life-saving colleague.

Commenters were astonished by the 'plot twist.'

One described it as 'mad funny,' while another added: 'I am never deleting this app.'

People also enjoyed envisioning the sacking - one imagined Ellmore saying: 'You saved my life but you came in at 8.10 am 7 times this year. We gotta let you go.'

Another suspected use of the quip 'I need profits now not prophets.'

Despite the reaction, the former exec reiterated that 'the reason I was originally booked on flight 93 was due to her performance issues. These issues didnt improve afterwards and I delayed letting her go until my boss insisted it happen.'

Commenters on X also saw a funny side to Ellmore's story, but he reiterated that he did not regret the sacking

A plume of smoke from the crash sight of United Flight 93 in a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania

However, he added that 'Im certainly not going to give out her name and publicly humiliate her. I do believe she was used by God to make me move my flight.

'From what Ive been told by her, it was a wake up call that ultimately led to her excelling in her next job. I dont regret the action.'

United Airlines Flight 93 was not one of the two aircraft which hit the World Trade Centre on September 11, 2001, but was hijacked.

Its intended target was Capitol Hill in Washington DC, however, passengers voted to revolt - this is documented in the 2006 movie United 93.

This ultimately led to the flight crashing near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, in what Vice President Dick Cheney reportedly described as 'an act of heroism.'
Russian pilot of the SU-27 fighter jet tried to shoot down RAF plane last year

A Russian pilot tried to shoot down an RAF surveillance plane over the Black Sea because he mistakenly thought he had permission, it has emerged.

The pilot of the SU-27 fighter jet fired two missiles at the RAF aircraft on September 29 last year, with Russia claiming the missile had malfunctioned.

Britain's then defence secretary Ben Wallace told Parliament that two Russian jets had 'recklessly' come within 15ft of the RAF RC-135 Rivet Joint, which has a crew of up to 30.

Russia's defence minister Sergei Shoigu blamed a 'technical malfunction' and Mr Wallace, after speaking with other Russian defence officials, accepted their explanation and drew a line under the incident.

Now, three senior Western defence sources have told the BBC that one of the Russian pilots thought he had been given permission to target the British aircraft.

The pilot of the SU-27 fighter jetfired two missiles at the British military plane, with the first missing the target rather than malfunctioning as was claimed by Russia at the time

An RAF RC-135 Rivet Joint spy plane had been flying over international waters near Crimea at the time of the incident in September

Communications that were intercepted by the RAF plane show the Russian pilot received an ambiguous command that was along the lines of 'you have the target', one source said.

While the first pilot took this as an order to fire at the RAF reconnaissance plane, the second pilot thought the opposite and swore at his comrade when he fired his first air-to-air missile.

The missile had been successfully launched but failed to lock onto the plane, the sources said, meaning that it was a near-miss rather than a 'technical malfunction' as Russia had claimed.

The first pilot then released another missile which fell from the wing, suggesting that the weapon either malfunctioned or the launch was aborted, sources said.

The ambiguous command given by the Russian ground station showed a high degree of unprofessionalism from Vladimir Putin's men, the sources added.

Meanwhile pilots and staff working for Nato use incredibly precise language when giving and receiving orders - meaning that it would never be open to interpretation.

Had the Russian missile blown Rivet Joint out of the sky, the UK and its Nato allies may have been forced to declare war.

Member nations agree that an armed attack against one or more of them 'shall be considered an attack against them all', according to Article 5 of Nato's founding treaty,

If such an attack does occur, each Nato member will assist the country that has been attacked with any action 'it deems necessary'.

The RAF regularly flies sorties over the Black Sea's international waters, as well the Baltics and eastern Poland, to gather intelligence.

The role of the Rivet Joint aircraft is to hoover up electronic transmissions and communications - the plane is also known as a 'nuke-sniffer' for its ability to detect radioactivity.

The Ministry of Defence said it will not release details of the intercepted communications.

An MoD spokesman said: 'Our intent has always been to protect the safety of our operations, avoid unnecessary escalation and inform the public and international community.'

Video footage shows the Russian fighter jet approaching the American drone from behind in March and beginning to release fuel as it passes, the Pentagon said

After the clash, the onboard camera shows a broken propeller (L) and a comparative operational propeller (R) turning. Russia previously said it did not make contact with the drone

British and US aircraft continued to conduct these reconnaissance flights after the hair-raising incident in September but RAF surveillance aircraft are now escorted by Typhoon fighters while the US resorts to the use of unmanned surveillance drones.

Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder said in March that it is important to keep the Black Sea and the skies over it open to all nations.

'The Black Sea is a critical international seaway supporting many of our Nato allies, including Romania, Bulgaria and Turkey, and does not belong to any one country,' he said.

Ryder's comments came after another aerial incident in which Russian jets dumped fuel on and ultimately crashed into a US surveillance drone in March.

Drone footage showed the shocking moment Moscow's Su-27 jet approached the US MQ-9 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) from behind and clipped its propeller over international airspace on March 14.

US forces had to bring down the $32million surveillance drone in international waters after the encounter, sparking a race between Moscow and Washington to recover it.

Russian ships were spotted at the crash site on March 15 trying to find the debris, though the Pentagon insisted the parts could not be retrieved and any intelligence had been wiped.

Moscow insisted its jet did not make contact with the drone, and instead blamed 'sharp maneuvering' for the crash.

But experts say it was likely an accidental clash as Russian pilots adopted increasingly aggressive tactics to force the drone to change course.
A drone came so close to smashing into a British Airways jet over London that the pilot thought it was 'going to hit the windscreen', a report has revealed.

The B787 plane from Mumbai in India, which was flying at around 230mph and carrying up to 256 passengers, had been coming in to land at Heathrow.

The illegally-flown device loomed into view as the plane was at 5,200ft over Poplar in east London before starting its final approach just before 2pm on May 14 this year.

The BA pilot immediately radioed air traffic controllers to report the drone had 'passed within a wing's length off the left-hand side of the aircraft'.

The UK Airprox Board, which assesses near-misses in UK airspace, added: 'There was visual contact from the captain's window. Drone was white in colour and professional sized'.

A drone came so close to smashing into a British Airways jet over London that the pilot thought it was 'going to hit the windscreen', a report has revealed (file photo)

The illegally flown device loomed into view as the plane was at 5,200ft over the Poplar area of east London before beginning its final approach just before 2pm on May 14 this year (file photo)

A report by NATS air traffic control service added: 'When asked if the drone was at their level, the pilot responded, "Yes. I literally thought it was going to hit the windscreen".'

The pilot believed the plane had ended up passing the drone when it was around 100ft away and the risk of a collision had been 'high'.

Other aircraft which were going through the area were warned of the sighting, but there were no further reports of a drone in the area.

The height at which the drone was being flown was around 13 times the usual maximum legal height for the devices of 400ft.

Most drones are fitted with software limiting their maximum height, but it can be over-ridden by patches bought on the internet.

It is believed that the drone was being flown by someone trying to get dramatic video footage of an airliner in flight.

Aviation experts have long warned of the risk of drones damaging cockpit windows or jet engines with potential catastrophic results if they hit a plane.

The drone operator could have been jailed for up to five years for endangering an aircraft if caught, but it is believed they were never traced.

The UK Airprox Board rated the near miss as a Category A incident where there was a serious risk of collision.

An image from flight tracker website flightradar24 showing the British Airways plane in the area where it nearly hit the drone

The report added: 'In the board's opinion the reported altitude and/or description of the object were sufficient to indicate that it could have been a drone.

'The board considered that the pilot's overall account of the incident portrayed a situation where providence had played a major part in the incident and/or a definite risk of collision had existed.'

A British Airways spokesperson said: 'We take such matters extremely seriously and our pilots report incidents so that the authorities can investigate and take appropriate action.'
It started in an abandoned Marrickville house

A huge contingent of firefighters is trying to control a fierce house fire just streets from Anthony Albanese's Sydney home.

Fire and Rescue NSW confirmed that 30 firies and 12 trucks are trying to extinguish a a blaze that began a single level home on Hilltop Avenue at Marrickville in Sydney's inner west.

Several locals took to social media to post photos of the spectacular fire, which took hold in an abandoned heritage-listed house on a large block around 5.30pm.

It is understood the fire did not spread to nearby properties and that the Prime Minister's home was not under threat.

'The cause of the fire is so far unclear but we are on the scene investigating,' police told Daily Mail Australia.

No injuries were reported.

A massive house fire has erupted in Marrickville, just streets from the Prime Minister's home on Thursday afternoon. Pictured: The blaze in Hilltop Avenue in Sydney's inner west

It is understood the fire did not spread to nearby houses and that the Prime Minister's home was not under threat

The fire filled the sky with brown smoke spiralling into the air.

One woman claimed on social media that the 'massive house fire' began in the empty freestanding timber home.

'It went up so fast,' she wrote.

The Prime Minister lives in the same part of the trendy inner-city suburb, which is 20 minutes drive from Sydney's CBD.

The area is known for a golf course, playing fields and the Cooks River.

'Massive house fire in Marrickville right now. I hope everyone is alright,' another man posted to X.

More than 70 calls were made to 000 reporting the fire.

A local woman claimed on social media that the 'massive house fire' began in an abandoned freestanding home
The mother of missing toddler Ben Needham has spoken of her relief after being told that the body of a child discovered at the bottom of the Danube in Germany last year was not that of her son.

Kerry Needham, 51, said that she had been a 'nervous wreck' waiting to hear if the remains of a child discovered in Germany last year were those of Ben, who has been missing for over thirty years.

Ms Needham said that she was physically sick after she received a phone call from South Yorkshire Police informing her that DNA results indicated that the boy, discovered in the Danube River, was not her son.

'It was all that pent-up anxiety,' she explained. 'It came as a huge shock, but obviously a relief.'

'My stomach did a somersault,' Ms Needham added.

Ben Needham went missing on the Greek island of Kos in 1991. His parents have consistently rejected the theory that he died in an accident involving a nearby excavator

Kerry Needham, 51, has previously spoken about her belief that Ben, who was just 21 months old when he went missing, was abducted by child traffickers intent on selling him for adoption

Ben, then 21 months old, went missing from his grandparents' farmhouse on the Greek island of Kos in July 1991.

There have been over three hundred alleged sightings of Ben, of Sheffield, since his disappearance. Ms Needham has previously spoken about her belief that her son was abducted by traffickers hoping to sell him on for adoption.

Hopes had been raised after Interpol, an organisation that facilitates policing cooperation globally, earlier stated that it believed that the child discovered in the Danube was not German. The boy is believed by Interpol to have been aged approximately five or six and may have been abducted from abroad.

The remains of the child were discovered wrapped in foil and weighed down by a touchstone in May 2022. Investigations suggested that the boy had brown hair and was approximately 3' 6' tall.

'The way that little boy died makes it worse,' Ms Needham told the Daily Mirror, adding that she was unsure how she would have been able to handle the news had results confirmed a DNA match. 'It's just horrible.'

The remains of a child, believed to be five or six, were discovered close to this site along the Bavarian branch of the Danube in May 2022. The child was found wrapped in foil and weighed down by concrete

Ms Needham added that she hoped that the identity of the missing child was quickly established. 'Not knowing what's happened to your child is the worst nightmare,' she said.

Ms Needham has consistently rejected the theory that Ben was killed accidentally by an excavator that was working in a field nearby to her parents' home. Investigations at the site led to the discovery of a toy car that was described at the time as being the 'key' to unravelling the case.

While DNA discovered on the car was later found to not match Ben's, South Yorkshire Police's Detective Inspector Jon Cousins stated in 2018 that it remains 'his professional belief' that Ben died in an accident at Ms Needham's parents' property in 1991.

South Yorkshire Police said that the Needham family were being supported by officers.

A spokesperson for the force said: 'Our thoughts remain with the young boy who is yet to be identified and, of course, the Needham family who continue in their search for answers.'
The German millionaire matriarch who runs a massive specs empire is suing her son's British ex-fiancee over nearly 200,000 of money loaned to them which she claims she is refusing to pay after a bust-up.

Hannelore Matt, the co-founder of Optik Matt - which sells glasses, contact lenses, frames, sunglasses and hearing aids - is suing her son Andreas' former partner Liana Fox over money she gave her during their relationship.

Andreas and Ms Fox had rekindled a teenage romance after the 87-year-old matriarch was widowed in 2009, but split up again in 2020 after a series of troubles, a court heard.

Ms Fox, 61, is now being sued for the return of 193,000 which Mrs Matt says was advanced to help Ms Fox buy a house for her and Andreas to use in England but which was never bought. She says Ms Fox refused to pay it back, texting Andreas she was angry at being branded 'a bloody cow' during an argument.

Ms Fox texted: 'I can't send the money to you... Bloody cows don't answer text messages to the people who call them bloody cows. No one in my whole life has ever called me that.'

Hannelore Matt, 87, co-founder of one of Germany's biggest eyewear chains, is suing her son Andreas' British former partner Liana Fox over money she handed her during their relationship (Pictured: Mrs Matt and Andreas outside court)

The court heard Ms Fox (right) and Andreas (left) started a relationship as teenagers in the 1970s, but parted, with Ms Fox marrying in England and Andreas working for the family business in Regensburg, Germany

Suing at Central London County Court, Mrs Matt wants return of the money she advanced, as well as hefty legal costs, claiming the money was either loaned to Ms Fox or held on trust by her to buy a house as an investment for the two women.

But Ms Fox argues that the money is hers, as it was to cover debts owed to her by Andreas for 'extravagant' boy toys, including a Mercedes car, a camper van and a three wheeled flying trike that she loaned him money for while they were together.

Judge Mark Raeside KC heard Mrs Matt built family business Optik Matt from humble beginnings, after founding it with her husband Bernard Matt in 1955. It is now one of Germany's top five eyewear chains, with 82 shops, 450 employees and a multimillion-pound turnover and is still run as a family business by three of Mrs Matt's children.

The court heard Ms Fox and Andreas started a relationship as teenagers in the 1970s, but parted, with Ms Fox marrying in England and Andreas working for the family business in Regensburg, Germany.

Ms Fox - who formerly ran a sculpture gallery in Canterbury - had a son with her husband Nigel, but was widowed in 2009, before resuming her relationship with Andreas the following year.

They had an official engagement in Malta, with a 15,000 euro ring bought for Ms Fox in 2014.

But Andreas found himself in trouble with the police and in 2018 was convicted and later jailed for embezzlement involving '596,000 euros provided to him by a third party investor,' said his mother's barrister Jeff Hardman.

Ashamed at his fall from grace, Andreas wanted to move to England and his mother advanced 225,000 euros to Ms Fox towards jointly purchasing a property in the Kent countryside, he continued.

Ms Fox, 61, of Ashford, Kent, is now being sued for the return of 225,000 euros (193,000), Mrs Matt says was advanced to help Ms Fox buy a house for her and Andreas to use in England, but which was never bought

Suing at Central London County Court, Mrs Matt (centre, with her son Andreas) wants return of the money she advanced, as well as hefty legal costs, claiming the money was either loaned to Ms Fox or held on trust by her

However, the purchase never took place and, after Andreas discovered Ms Fox's affair, they split in 2020, with his mother then demanding the money be repaid, said the barrister.

Mr Hardman told the judge: 'Mrs Matt seeks to recover the sum of 225,000 euros from Ms Fox. She says that the monies were advanced in September 2019 to Ms Fox for a specific purpose, being the acquisition of residential property... Ms Fox failed to acquire any property... and has refused to return the monies.

'Ms Fox admits that the monies were received, but contends that there was no joint venture or loan agreement. Rather, Mrs Matt transferred the sum of 225,000 euros on behalf of her son, who was allegedly indebted to Ms Fox.

'In or around May 2020, Andreas Matt and Ms Fox had an argument. Mr Matt was upset that Ms Fox hadn't visited him in Germany for some time, had failed to find a property, and made disrespectful comments about his mother.

'This was followed by a series of text message exchanges on May 27, 2020, with Andreas Matt demanding back the money on his mother's behalf,' the barrister said.

He told the judge Ms Fox had said she could not send the money and, when asked why, she responded: 'Bloody cows don't answer text messages... To the people who call them bloody cows. No one in my whole life has ever called me that.'

He told the judge that Ms Fox had later signed a document, admitting she owed Mrs Matt money and agreeing to pay it back 100,000 towards the debt.

'The weight of documentary evidence overwhelmingly favours the claimant's narrative,' he argued.

'Ms Fox's contention that Mrs Matt's son owed her money is nothing more than a last ditch effort to cobble together any old plausible argument to resist liability.

'She has acknowledged the debt, before stumbling upon...different excuses....to avoid making payment.

'Mrs Matt made 12 separate demands for payment before Ms Fox abandoned the previous excuses and alighted upon the indebted son argument.

'She has adopted and discarded arguments to suit her narrative, and has gone to extraordinary lengths to portray Mrs Matt's son as some sort of impecunious grifter.

'There is no evidence anywhere as between Mrs Matt, her son, or Ms Fox that there was even a debt, let alone an unspoken agreement that Mrs Matt would pay off the alleged debt.'

But for Ms Fox, Christopher Snell painted a different picture, claiming that Ms Fox had signed the document promising to pay back money under 'duress.'

He said Andreas' conviction arose from his relationship with a 'lady of means' and his then 'embezzling her money,' suggesting he had 'exhibited a similar pattern of behaviour in relation to Ms Fox.'

'Ms Fox was - throughout the time of her relationship with Andreas - a lady of means,' he said.

'She had inherited significant wealth following her husband's sad demise from cancer. She had no need to borrow money from Mrs Matt - or any other person - in order to purchase a property in the United Kingdom.

'The extent of her means is clear from the amount of money that she expended during the course of her relationship with Andreas, which included...her paying his legal bills during his criminal trial, paying bail money on his behalf, and loaning him sizeable sums of money in order to make extravagant purchases.

'This is, of course, the claimant's case to prove. To succeed, she must establish that she made the transfer to Ms Fox in order for her to purchase a house which Mrs Matt was to co-own. That is her pleaded case.

'Ms Fox's case is, on the contrary, simple, straightforward and credible.

'Mrs Matt sent the money to Ms Fox - very shortly after Andreas had been incarcerated for embezzling a very significant amount of money from a former lady friend - in order to settle part of Andreas' sizeable debt to another of his former lady friends: Ms Fox'.

The hearing continues.
An officer was shot in Iowa yesterday, prompting a manhunt that led to the arrest of the suspect, officials have said.

The Algona police officer was shot on the 1100 block of Minnesota Street at approximately 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Iowa State Patrol said in a statement.

Local resident Kyle Lou Ricke, 43, was later identified as the suspect.

Ricke initially avoided arrest, leading to Kossuth County Sheriff's Office to issue a lockdown order for residents of Algona.

Just before midnight, the man was taken in to custody.

The Algona police officer was shot on the 1100 block of Minnesota Street at approximately 8pm on Wednesday, Iowa State Patrol said in a statement. Local resident Kyle Lou Ricke, 43, was later identified as the suspect

Meanwhile, the condition of the officer is unknown.

State police cancelled the blue alert, which was issued to alert law enforcement when a suspect is on the loose and presents a threat to other police officers. The blue alert signals 'the death or serious injury of a police officer in the line of duty'.

The Kossuth County Sheriff's office also gave 'all clear' overnight.

According to local reports, Ricke had been facing legal problems in the weeks leading to the shooting.

Legal records show he was in court hours before the shooting, and was charged with third degree harassment on August 28.

KCCI Des Moines reported that Ricke's ex-girlfriend told police he had sent her dozens of text messages and tried calling her several times within a two-hour time span, with texts seen by officers showing he called her names and 'bantered her'.

An officer said he advised the man not to contact the woman or he would be charged with harassment.

Despite this, the woman contacted police four days later (August 27) and said Ricke had continued to send her text messages and emails.

The next day, he admitted to contacting the woman, and was arrested and charged.

On August 29, Ricke bonded out of Kossuth County Jail, before appearing in court on Wednesday morning, hours before the officer-involved shooting.

He trial date had been set for November 3.
The transgender bride set to take Married at First Sight UK by storm transitioned aged 21 at a NHS hospital before spending 50,000 on cosmetic surgery to be 'taken seriously' as a woman, MailOnline can reveal today.

Channel 4 viewers will see Ella Morgan, 29, who was born Evan Morgan, wed a male contestant amid a row over whether the groom was told first or not.

Ms Morgan is shown in the trailer for MAFS telling her new husband her 'big secret' after they married, having admitted her transition has made her fear rejection after being treated as a dirty secret in the past.

However, Channel 4 has now revealed that they did tell the man in advance he would be marrying a trans woman. It is understood that the man is furious with how the broadcaster treated him during his time on the show and afterwards.

But the beauty and fashion consultant from Bristol says she is determined to be a star of the show to 'shed light on the struggles and realities of being trans', adding: 'Were not freaks or mentally ill. Im still just like any other girl'.

She has spent 50,000 to create the body and face she 'imagined' before her transition began, but admits she will have more cosmetic surgery in the future.

Ella Morgan, 29, was born Evan Morgan (pictured before her transition) and is one of the new stars of Married at First Sight UK

Channel 4 became embroiled in a fakery row after pretending a man appearing on their show Married At First Sight UK was unaware he had been paired up with a transgender woman (Pictured: Ella Morgan)

Ella (right) said she was around six when she knew she felt different and was '11 or 12' when she felt sure she was transgender

Ella says 'Evan is still a part of me' but she wants to be taken seriously as a woman

Ms Morgan (right in red) says her parents (mum far left, dad far right) and her three brothers (also pictured) have been very supportive

Ella has spoken at length to the Transform website about her gender reassignment surgery and cosmetic surgery.

She says that when she was '11 or 12' she realised she wanted to transition. I knew then I needed that surgery and I wanted to do it, she said.

She had her sex change when she was 21 at a NHS hospital in Brighton, where she also had breast construction surgery. Since then she has paid for a second breast enlargement and fillers in her face costing 50,000.

Describing why she said: You need to look feminine to pass as a woman otherwise people wont take it seriously. I was under a lot of pressure to look good.

I needed to plump out my face. It was very skinny and gaunt. My body is how I imagined it. Part of me wants to go a bit more with the filler, bit more with the breast implants. Thats how I am. I am all or nothing.

I also had laser hair removal, including on my face, and voice therapy at a local hospital for a number of months, although my voice didnt really bother me as Im quite well-spoken with a relatively feminine voice anyway.

Evan is still a part of me. Trying to erase that by changing myself through surgery was never going to fix everything, although I used to think it would.

'Im very grateful that Ive had surgery, hormones, laser hair removal and the rest, because its made my life easier and helped me become the person I knew I was, but procedures dont fix everything. Money cant buy learning to accept yourself as the whole package, inside and out.

Ella, who is originally from Bristol, told MailOnline that she is proud to be trans and she is 'just like any other girl'

In an interview with MailOnline, Ella has told of her relief at appearing on Married At First Sight UK because she says she no longer has to hide

Ella Morgan says her TV appearance is to educate viewers

Ella has spoken at length about her gender reassignment surgery and cosmetic surgery

Ella admits that some members of her family were unsure, even upset, by her decision to transition.

She said: 'My mum found the GP leaflets under my bed, so my secret was out. Although she was a bit shocked at first, she was very supportive. Dad was another matter, though - he wouldnt look at me for 3 months, which was awful, but he wasnt as educated about it then.

My brothers started to realise what was going on and, being 3 males, they werent overjoyed at the idea of a transgender sibling. They didnt seem on board with my change, but when my dad saw that the rest of the family had negative opinions, he started to come around and we began to talk. He realised I was his child, whether daughter or son, and he didnt want to lose me. He could see it was what I needed to do in order to be truly happy, no matter what others thought.

'I had my surgery in April 2015. My dad was incredibly supportive and came along with me, staying in a hotel so that he could be there for me. My mum joined my dad for a few days, too. I didnt understand at the time just how hard it was for them to see me go through this, and Im so grateful that they were there for me. It was the end of the son they once had, yet the start of my new life as the real me.

'I really hope I have made my parents proud as a daughter. And I hope that my brothers are proud to call me their sister. I am so proud of them  theyve shown me how its possible for people to change their mindset when theyre put in difficult situations. They have accepted me, and they treat me in the way Id always dreamed of'.

Channel 4 has sparked a fakery row after pretending that a male contestant was unaware he was marrying a trans woman.

Married at First Sight UK, which is now in its eighth series, pairs up 16 singletons who meet for the first time on their wedding day. The series follows the couples through their marriages, which are not legally binding.

Miss Morgan, 29, is the first transgender contestant to appear on the show. She told the Mail: Im really proud of it because going into this I was scared to say that Im trans but now I can hold my head up high. I have changed a lot of peoples minds and I have also found me. I am proud to say Im trans and so what its just a label. Im still just like any other girl.

I dont want to be someones dirty secret, but I feel like people arent educated these days.

In a statement, a Channel 4 spokesman told the Mail that the groom was told that the match found for him was a trans woman before the ceremony.

The spokesman added: This is the first time [Married At First Sight] has featured a trans bride so, to ensure fully informed consent, and with the permission of the bride, the groom was told that the match found for him was a trans woman. In all other ways, the integrity of the format was preserved. Channel 4 bosses said that a high duty of care was put into the match.

Last year Married at First Sight faced controversy after one of its contestants, George Roberts, was accused of being emotionally abusive by three ex-girlfriends. He denied all the claims.

It isnt the first time that Channel 4 has been accused of duping viewers. In 2007, chat show Richard & Judy was found to be rigging its phone-in by charging 1 for phone entries  even though the successful participants had already been chosen.
This is the moment a pair of inebriated sisters had a full on meltdown inside the terminal of Newark airport in New Jersey when they were told that they would not be traveling to Dublin.

A fellow passenger recorded the sisters' confrontation with Aer Lingus staff and police. During the interaction, one of the women identified herself as a lawyer and warned the responding cops that there would be consequences if they were arrested.

The video shows one woman screaming while jumping up and down: 'Can anybody help us? Please somebody help me. Please!'

The TikToker who posted the video said that the sisters were behaving 'erratically' around 8pm when told they would not be flying. According to records, the flight experienced major delays.

The video, captured earlier this month, begins with a blonde woman sobbing while being consoled by her brunette sister who promises that they're still going to Ireland. 'I'm not going to let you down. We're going to Dublin!'

Two drunken sisters were arrested after they caused a massive scene at Newark Airport when they were told that they were too intoxicated to travel

The video shows one sister remonstrating with Aer Lingus as she demands to be let on the plane

The person recording the video was Facetiming with a friend while the incident took place

The clip ends with one sister talking directly to the camera, sadly there is no audio during this portion

When the brunette sister remonstrates at the gate demanding to be let on the flight, her sister appears and seems to be willing to accept that their trip is on hold.

The video then cuts to a police officer wrestling with the brunette woman, clad in a purple sweater and black leggings, as she continues to scream.

Her sister is also being held by an officer but is not resisting. There is no audio at this point but the blonde sister speaks directly to the camera as her sister is wrestled to the ground in the background.

The person who posted the video was Facetiming a friend at the time of the incident, and both cannot contain their laughter.

A spokesperson for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey called the women 'intoxicated.'

'Officers made attempts to de-escalate the situation, but the women disregarded their instructions,' authorities told the Daily Dot.

The blonde sister was arrested for disorderly conduct and resisting arrest while the other received a criminal summons for disorderly conduct.

It's not clear if they managed to make the trip to Ireland.
Jeremy Clarkson has delivered a brutal assessment of the latest British farming season and warns it is unlikely to improve.

Clarkson, 63, uploaded a picture of a hawthorn tree - which was awash with berries known as Haws - to his Instagram account.

He wrote on Instagram: 'Its #backbritishfarming day. And please do because its been a b****** of a harvest. And according to Gerald, all those berries mean we are now in for a harsh winter.'

Clarkson could be referring to Gerald Cooper, a popular figure with viewers who has regularly appeared on Clarkson's Farm episodes.

Cooper can often be seen alongside Clarkson in the show but communication is often an issue due to Gerald's thick accent.

Clarkson, 63, uploaded a picture of a hawthorn tree - which was awash with berries known as Haws - to his Instagram account. He wrote on Instagram: 'Its #backbritishfarming day. And please do because its been a b****** of a harvest. And according to Gerald, all those berries mean we are now in for a harsh winter.'

Clarkson is an avid supporter of British farming and has presented his own documentary series, Clarkson's Farm , which follows events on his farm in the Cotswolds, since 2021

Cooper (pictured) can often be seen alongside Clarkson in the show but communication is often an issue due to Gerald's thick accent

Previously, Jeremy has struggled to understand Gerald when he was trying to help harvest crops, which saw some of them wasted as Clarkson was unable to keep pace with Cooper.

His post has also seen users speculate on links that the former Top Gear host is simply referencing an old wives' tale that the sight of berry-laden trees in autumn indicates a harsh winter ahead.

One user quipped: 'Gerald is the philosopher of our generation'.

Another agreed with Clarkson's prediction, commenting: 'Abundance of all hedgerow berries normally forecasts a hard winter'.

Clarkson is an avid supporter of British farming and has presented his own documentary series, Clarkson's Farm, which follows events on his farm in the Cotswolds, since 2021.

A farming enthusiast, Clarkson was said to have left bosses at Amazon Studios 'shocked and disappointed' following his controversial criticism of the Duchess of Sussex in a column last year, in which he wrote about having her paraded naked through the streets with excrement thrown at her.

But his popular Prime Video series has reportedly been renewed for a fourth season, as Amazon said 'there is so much more to the show' than the presenter.

During a discussion at the Edinburgh TV Festival, panel host and journalist Scott Bryan asked representatives for Amazon why they continued with the show following the column, which was the subject of 25,000 complaints to the press watchdog, the Independent Press Standards Organisation.

Fozia Khan, unscripted lead for UK Originals for Amazon Studios, said the team were 'shocked and disappointed' but ultimately made the decision to continue the show.

She added: 'I mean, there's lots of conversations going on. But I think the thing that I want to say is that the show is so much bigger than Clarkson. It's a really good show.'
Labour has been accused of acting to 'end the dream of homeownership' after peers blocked Government plans to ease EU-era environmental rules to boost housebuilding.

Michael Gove, the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Secretary, lashed out at Sir Keir Starmer after the House of Lords scuppered ministers' proposals last night.

The Government had attempted to relax Brussels-originated 'nutrient neutrality' requirements for developers.

They claimed the move would 'unblock' more than 100,000 homes between now and 2030 in an 18billion boost to the economy.

But, led by Labour opposition in the Lords, the Government bid was defeated yesterday evening to leave the future of the proposals unclear.

Peers in the House of Lords last night blocked Rishi Sunak's plans to scrap EU-era environmental rules to boost housebuilding

Michael Gove, the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Secretary, lashed out at Sir Keir Starmer after the House of Lords scuppered ministers' proposals last night

The Government claimed easing 'nutrient neutrality' rules would 'unblock' more than 100,000 homes between now and 2030 in an 18billion boost to the British economy

The reform was introduced at a late stage in the passage of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill through Parliament.

This means it will not return to the House of Commons as part of parliamentary 'ping-pong', and so the Government will have to use other legislation to pursue the change.

Current rules mean developers building new homes in protected areas are required to provide mitigations to ensure no new additional nutrients make it into rivers and lakes.

An increase in nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus in waterways can cause algal blooms that deprive other plants and animals of light and oxygen.

The Government has claimed that, although nutrients entering rivers is 'a real problem', the contribution made by new homes is 'very small'.

They proposed to 'do away' with nutrient neutrality rules in changes to the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill as it passed through the Lords.

Alongside a relaxation of the rules, ministers promised to introduce 'new environmental measures' to 'tackle pollution at source and restore habitats'.

But Labour yesterday condemned the 'reckless and irresponsible' proposal and claimed it would increase river pollution and threaten the environment.

This was despite Lisa Nandy, recently removed as shadow levelling up secretary, housing and communities secretary by Sir Keir, having previously signalled Labour would support the plans.

In response to the Government's defeat by peers last night, Mr Gove said Labour had acted to 'end the dream of home ownership for thousands of families'.

'It is hardly surprising that Sir Keir remains so attached to these defective EU legacy laws when he did everything he could to overturn the will of the British people and keep us in the EU,' he added.

'Sir Keir Starmer has put short term political calculation ahead of the long term interests of the country. He is the original origami politician - folding at the first sign of pressure. You cannot trust a word he says.'

The Cabinet minister also noted how Sir Keir had previously vowed to back the 'builders not the blockers' when it came to boosting Britain's housing supply.

Mr Gove noted how Sir Keir had previously vowed to back the 'builders not the blockers' when it came to boosting Britain's housing supply

The Cabinet minister blasted Labour following the Government's defeat in the Lords

Last night, the Lords voted by 192 to 161, majority 31, against scrapping EU-era rules that force developers to mitigate the impact new homes have on river health.

The upper chamber also rejected by 203 votes to 156, majority 47, a move to give ministers wide-ranging powers that critics warned could have allowed the Secretary of State to resurrect the plans by decree.

Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner said: 'The Tories have utterly failed in their attempt to score cheap political points with a flawed plan, which has now been humiliatingly rejected in the Lords.

'Labour's amendment demonstrates our commitment to serious reform and building a consensus for a credible alternative based on evidence, and not at the expense of rivers.

'We stand ready to sit down with the Government, housebuilders and environmental groups to agree on a workable solution to build the homes we need.

'If they refuse this opportunity, ministers have only themselves to blame.'

The Prime Minister blasted 'flip-flopping' Sir Keir Starmer after Labour moved to block his plans to scrap EU-era environmental rules in a bid to boost housebuilding

Mr Sunak claimed the 'principles-free' Labour leader was chasing a 'cheap political hit' by moving to defeat the Government in the House of Lords

Ms Rayner and Labour's shadow environment secretary Steve Reed confirmed their party's opposition to the Government's plan in a newspaper article published yesterday.

In an article in The Times, Ms Rayner and Mr Reed wrote: 'We must build the homes people need while also protecting the environment we live in. The two are not mutually exclusive.

'The Government's proposed solution to this challenge is deeply problematic.

'It would allow councils to ignore environmental regulations and authorise new housing development without mitigation for environmental harm on the basis that the nutrient pollution problem will be solved by other means.

'Their approach would not only significantly weaken environmental law and increase river pollution but would fatally undermine the emerging market in nutrient pollution reduction that developers are already making use of.'

Rishi Sunak clashed with Sir Keir ahead of last night's vote during Prime Minister's Question's in the Commons on Wednesday afternoon.

The PM told the Labour leader: 'Today this Government is taking action to reform defective EU laws to unlock over 100,000 homes  boosting our economy, supporting jobs and ensuring that we can realise the aspirations of homeowners.

'He [Sir Keir] talks about trust  he tried in this House to talk the talk on housebuilding. But at the first sign of a cheap political hit, what did he do? He's caved in.

'Rather than make right long-term decisions for the country, he's taken the easy way out. It is typical of the principles-free, conviction-free type of leadership that he offers.

'Flip-flopping from being a builder to a blocker, the British public can't trust a word he says.'

A spokesman for Sir Keir later denied Labour had U-turned on the issue, as they branded the Government's plans 'rushed and flawed'.
Sergei Shoigu didn't exude confidence in his military's abilities to win the war

Russia's defence minister merely shrugged when asked whether his forces will win the war, in a sign of just how bad the country's invasion of Ukraine is going.

Sergei Shoigu, who has overseen his troops' startling losses and battlefield failures, didn't exude confidence in the military's abilities in an interview on Russian TV yesterday.

Appearing deflated, he comically raised his shoulders with his arms outstretched as he said 'we have no other option' when asked whether Russia will win the war.

It marked a stark shift from his language 18 months ago where he said 'domination had to be won'.

Shoigu, who faced a torrent of angry criticism from the late Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin for his 'incompetence', said: 'We survived the spring and summer campaigns.

'[Russian troops] are defending what they need to defend.'

Shoigu, who has overseen his troops' startling losses and battlefield failures, didn't exude confidence in the military's abilities to win the war in an interview on Russian TV yesterday

In a sign of just how bad Russia's invasion of Ukraine is going, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu merely shrugged when asked whether his forces will win the war



Shoigu, who was appointed Russia's defence minister in 2012 despite having no military background, has seen more than 270,000 of his troops be killed or wounded in the war according to Kyiv estimates.

He told a reporter on Russian TV yesterday: 'We continue to knock out the equipment, knock out the personnel, all those who continue to fight for a month after the offensive.

'The counteroffensive has been underway for months now, we have survived the spring and summer campaigns, and now the autumn campaign has come.

The crestfallen Shoigu added: 'The troops are engaged in keeping active defence in the right and necessary directions. In some areas it is more difficult, in others it is easier, but I can say that the guys act confidently, the commanders act confidently and reliably, reliably defend what we need to defend today.

'Naturally, these are the directions in which the Ukrainian Armed Forces are trying to break through, but the main task is to knock out, knock out the equipment.'

The reporter than asked Shoigu: 'Will we win?'

Shoigu pauses before shrugging, his arms outstretched, and saying: 'We have no other option'.

His despondent speech came on the same day that Vladimir Putin pleaded with Kim Jong Un to supply Russia with more ammunition and rockets.

Western officials say the move shows the Russian president's 'isolation and desperation' as his troops continue to falter on the frontline.

Kyiv's forces have successfully recaptured ground in the Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions, according the country's deputy defence minister.

Hanna Maliar said Ukrainian forces had achieved 'stable success' in their drive to recapture Bakhmut in recent days and had achieved some of their goals around Klishchivka, a village towards the south.

Further north, near the towns of Lyman and Kupiansk, the heavy fighting of recent weeks has eased, she said.

Ukraine's Armed Forces said in its evening report that Ukrainian troops had beaten back ten Russian attacks near Maryinka in the past 24 hours. It said Russian forces were trying to regain lost positions northwest of Bakhmut.

A Ukrainian serviceman fires a 2S22 Bohdana self-propelled howitzer towards Russian troops in the Donetsk region in Ukraine on Wednesday

In a sign that Putin has become unhappy with Shoigu and his flailing war efforts, the Russian warmonger gave the defence minister the cold shoulder during a visit to a hospital in Moscow for wounded soldiers in June.

Upon their arrival at the medical facility, Putin quickly walked around the group, awkwardly shaking hands - and in some cases bandaged stumps - with the medically discharged veterans.

As is typical of such visits, most of the soldiers could not look their leader in the eye and instead stared straight ahead, their bodies rigid with anxiety. None smiled, or seemed particularly pleased to meet their president.

Having completed his round of pleasantries, Putin returned to stand shoulder to shoulder with Shoigu who waited at the hospital's entrance.

As the president approached, Shoigu leaned towards him and appeared to utter a few words, but was met with a wall of silence as Putin promptly turned and stood with his back to him.

Shoigu was appointed Russia's defence minister in 2012 and has been one of Putin's closest allies for the past decade.

The pair are known to have holidayed together regularly and are believed to have shared a close personal friendship outside of their respective roles.

But Shoigu has no military background, having trained as a civil engineer and held the position of emergency situations minister for years prior to his move to head up the Russian defence ministry.

In addition, Shoigu was never a part of Russia's state security apparatus - experience held by many of Moscow's political elites - and thus his competence as defence minister was questioned by many analysts even before Russian tanks rolled across the Ukrainian border last February.

Since then, Shoigu is one of the few top ranking defence and military leaders that has somehow retained his position.

Putin has run through several army chiefs of staff, demoting or outright removing military chiefs he perceived as incompetent amid his troops startling losses and battlefield failures.

Shoigu has also faced a torrent of angry criticism from the late Wagner chief Prigozhin, who is believed to have been assassinated in a plane crash last month.

Prigozhin routinely hit out at the Russian army's failure to support his mercenaries in the fight for Bakhmut and accused the Russian defence minister of withholding ammunition from his troops.
Two year-old Missclyen has a condition that causes excessive hair growth

A two-year-old girl who was born with a rare 'werewolf syndrome' has been dubbed a 'child from heaven' by Malaysia's royal family.

Little Adik Missclyen, from Bintulu, has congenital generalised hypertrichosis, an extremely rare condition that causes her to grow excessive facial and upper body hair.

She and her family had the chance to meet Malaysia's monarchs this week when the Sultan and his queen visited her hometown while touring the island of Borneo.

Adik and her parents, Roland Jimbai, 47, and Theresa Guntin, 28, were among the residents that lined up to meet the royals on September 11.

Sultan Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah and his consort Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah greeted the little girl.

Malaysia's monarchs Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah (left) and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah (centre) meet Missclyen

The Malaysian royals meet with the two-year-old

In a heartfelt gesture, the royal couple referred to the child as 'anak syurga', which translates to 'a child from heaven'.

Sultan Abdullah expressed words of encouragement to Mr Jimbai before he and the Queen stopped to pose for pictures with the family.

Mr Jimbai told local media: 'It was worth the wait when Sultan Abdullah, Tunku Azizah and their children met up with our family and took pictures with Missclyen.

'I am incredibly happy that we had the chance to meet the King and Queen. I am still at a loss for words.

'The King told me to take care of Missclyen as she is God's blessing.'

He added: 'I hope to meet the royal couple again if possible.'

Mr Jimbai told local media: 'It was worth the wait when Sultan Abdullah, Tunku Azizah and their children met up with our family and took pictures with Missclyen.

He said that people often give his youngest daughter strange looks, adding that some even call her the 'animal child'.

He said: 'Initially, we were really hurt and felt stressed. We felt upset and began avoiding bringing her to public places, except for hospital follow-ups.

'We were so afraid of what people were going to say.'

Mr Jimbai added that the girl's rare condition does not affect her health, but they take her for occasional medical check-ups just to be sure.

Two year-old Missclyen, pictured with her father Roland Jimbai, has a condition that causes excessive hair growth

Missclyen was born with the rare condition, which causes excessive hair growth on her face

Missclyen's father said some people can be cruel about her looks, with some calling her the 'animal child'

Missclyen is otherwise a healthy little girl, only needing to visit the doctor for check-ups, her father said
A mother has claimed her and her newborn baby were abandoned by the council in a ten-bed 'hostel from hell' which had broken windows and was covered in urine, mould and drug paraphernalia.

Olivia Matthews, 24, claims she was left homeless after losing her job as a care coordinator whilst pregnant in October 2022.

The desperate mother-to-be reached out to Lewisham Council in South East London as she was unable to pay her rent and struggled to find another job due to her visible baby bump.

Olivia says that the council placed her in what they claimed to be a 'temporary' ten-bed hostel - where she was horrified to find herself breathing in cigarette smoke, mouldy food in the sink and windows shattered by brawling residents.

She said she put up with the accommodation for the sake of her baby as the council 'promised' that she would be moved into a child-friendly home after the birth of her daughter. But the council said in April that she could be stuck there for up to ten years.

Olicia Matthews (pictured) has claimed her and her newborn baby were abandoned by the council in a ten-bed 'hostel from hell'

The mouldy shower which is shared by other residents in the hostel where Olivia has been forced to stay

Dirty dishes piled up in the sink of the kitchen which Olivia has to clean herself so that she can sterilise her child's bottles

A huge pile of rubbish is left lying on the floor of the kitchen at the hostel where Olivia is staying

Olivia, from Lewisham, South East London, gave birth to her daughter on March 31 and claims that a health inspector has since confirmed that the hostel is an unsafe environment for a child.

Shocking images showing a kitchen buried beneath rubbish and a bathroom coated in a layer of mould.

Olivia says that she fears for the development of her now five-month-old as the cramped, single room lacks space for her tot to crawl and play.

When Olivia reached out for help on July 24, the council replied with an email saying that the move 'may take some time' before asking 'when the baby was due' - when her tot was already five months old at the time.

Lewisham Council blamed 'significant challenges in the housing market' and an 'acute shortage of accommodation' for why Olivia had been placed in the hostel.

Olivia said: 'Having quite a big bump made it hard for me to get a new job [after losing her previous job].

'I told the council about the work situation, and they said they'd give me somewhere temporary to live until the baby was born.

'Obviously, beggars can't be choosers and I just thought that at least my baby wouldn't have to live in the hostel because they promised me [she wouldn't]. It's a hostel from hell. It's not very nice.

'The day she was born, I sent a notification of birth to the council and they told me that I'd be placed on the waiting list to be moved. They said it could take years before another property is available.

'It's not a safe environment for a child. The people who lived in the house weren't using bin bags [when I moved in], so they were just throwing all of their rubbish and food on the floor.

A health inspector told Olivia that living in the hostel woulf hinder her daughter's development as there is no room to walk, roll or crawl in her bedroom

Olivia claims even found what she believes to be a bag used for drugs outside her door

Mould lines the ceiling of the bathroom in the hostel where Olivia is currently staying

'It's a single room and it's a shared kitchen and shared bathroom. It doesn't have a bath, it just has a shower cubicle, which means I don't have anywhere to bathe my daughter.

'There was urine all over the floor of the bathroom. It's dirty. There's mould in the bathroom. Nobody ever cleans the kitchen apart from me, because obviously it has to be clean to sterilise bottles.

'This morning, as I left our room, there was what looked like a drug wrapper on the floor outside the door.

'There's a woman in the room opposite us who smokes in her room, which means that all our stuff smells of smoke, and the baby's breathing in smoke.

'There's a couple upstairs who argue - they smashed the front door, and the council's solution was to just board the glass over with wood.'

The anxious mother is now pleading for her local authority to help her find a clean and secure home where she can raise her daughter.

Olivia said: 'I was told that the waiting list for permanent housing is ten years, the waiting list for temporary housing is at least a year and a half.

'It's not convenient having a child and having to share that space with so many people. It's not hygienic.

'I can't even take her into the kitchen with me because of the sort of people we're living with, which means I have to leave her in the bedroom and lock the bedroom door just to make her a bottle.

'I feel like I can't breathe. That's the best way I can describe it. It makes me anxious, it's just the built-up stress of the whole thing.

'I just want to have somewhere clean where I can raise my daughter.'

Olivia says that she has phoned Lewisham Council more than 20 times between the birth of her child and their last email almost a month ago, and has received no response.

Olivia's former midwife also emailed the council on her behalf to draw attention to the 'unsuitable' hostel - a message which the former care coordinator claimed was also ignored.

Olivia claims that the couple upstairs argue a lot and on once ocassion even smashed the front door

Olivia's bedroom in the hostel where her daughter's cot and crib can be seen to take up nearly all of the limited floor space

Lewisham Council's website claims to prioritise those who are homeless, vulnerable, living in unhygienic or overcrowded housing or have urgent transfer or medical needs when it comes to applications for social housing.

After being contacted by journalists, the council said they would find her alternative 'accommodation in the borough'.

A Lewisham Council spokesperson said: 'Whenever we have a duty to accommodate a household, we undertake a full assessment of their needs and establish their circumstances before making a decision about a suitable placement.

'Like the rest of London, we're facing significant challenges in the housing market and an acute shortage of accommodation.

'So while we would always aim to place households in or close to Lewisham, this isn't always possible given the number and location of properties available to the council.

'However in this case, we have worked with Olivia to assess suitability and are glad to have been able to offer her accommodation in the borough.'
Sarah Everard, 33, a marketing executive living in Clapham, south-west London, disappeared on the evening of March 3, 2021, and her body was not found until a week later.

Metropolitan Police officer Wayne Couzens emerged as the prime suspect and eventually pled guilty to murder when he was tried.

In September 2021 Couzens was served a whole life order, and has more recently also been found guilty on three counts of indecent exposure which occurred prior to murdering Ms Everard.

The case dealt a huge blow to public confidence in the Met Police, not helped by the severe response to a vigil held in London in 2021, with women arrested at the event receiving a payout from the force in September 2023.

Find a full timeline of the case and events which led to Couzens being exposed below.

In September 2021 Wayne Couzens was served a whole life order for the murder, before also being found guilty of three counts of indecent exposure in 2023

There was a huge search for Sarah Everard after she went missing after visiting a friend

Cities across the country hosted vigils to remember Ms Everard, as well as to highlight the worries experienced by all women walking home alone

2011

Couzens joins the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC), from Kent Police, after being vetted by Thames Valley Police.

2015

Kent Police fail to investigate an indecent exposure incident linked to Couzens. In February 2023, he pleads guilty to a charge over this incident.

Couzens' name was broadcast as a suspected sex offender on a radio channel to all Kent Police officers, but no further action was taken according to papers released by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) in May 2023.

2018

Couzens transfers to the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS), from the CNC.

2019

Couzens and his wife buy a small area of woodland off Fridd Lane in Ashford, Kent.

February 2019

The PC joins a response team covering the Bromley area of south London, having initially served in a Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Couzens transfers to the Metropolitan Police Service, from the Civil Nuclear Constabulary in 2018

February 2020

He moves to the Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command to patrol diplomatic premises, mainly embassies.

November 2020 - February 2021

The then-48-year-old is linked to two allegations of indecent exposure in London, which it is claimed Scotland Yard failed to investigate. He pleads guilty to these charges two years later.

On the first occasion, Couzens appeared naked in a narrow, rural lane in Deal, Kent, and exposed his genitals as a woman cycled past wile on duty, according to the prosecution in 2023.

The cyclist later reported the incident online to Kent Police. When Couzens was arrested over the disappearance of Ms Everard, she contacted police again, after recognising his picture.

Couzens also exposed himself to staff at a McDonalds drive-thru in Kent, on 14 and 27 February 2021.

The McDonald's drive-thru in Swanley, Kent, where Couzens flashed staff

February 28

Couzens books a white Vauxhall Astra from a car hire firm in Dover, Kent, using his personal details and bank card. He also purchases a roll of self-adhesive film advertised as a carpet protector on Amazon.

March 2

7pm - Couzens starts a 12-hour shift at his base in West Brompton, west London.

March 3

On the day of her disappearance, Sarah Everard visits a friend in the Clapham Junction area and uses her bank card to buy a bottle of wine in Sainsbury's in Brixton Hill, south London, on her way.

4.45pm - Couzens collects the hire car.

9pm - Ms Everard leaves to walk home, some 2.5 miles away.

9.13pm - She calls her boyfriend for a little over 14 minutes.

Sarah Everard was taken while walking home, minutes after she was on the phone to her boyfriend

9.15pm - Ms Everard is captured alone on CCTV at the junction of Bowood Road and the South Circular.

9.28pm - The next sighting is on Cavendish Road and she is still alone.

9.32pm - Ms Everard is caught on the camera on a marked police car.

9.35pm - A bus camera captures two figures on Poynders Road standing beside a white Vauxhall Astra parked on the pavement with hazard lights flashing.

9.38pm - Another bus camera captures the same vehicle with the two front car doors open.

Couzens strangled Ms Everard with his police belt (circled)

March 4

1am - Having travelled out of London, the car is in the Tilmanstone area of Kent.

8.30am - Couzens returns the hire car used in the abduction.

8.10pm - Ms Everard is reported missing by her boyfriend, Josh Lowth.

March 5

The case is escalated and the Specialist Crime Unit becomes involved. Couzens, who is due to be off until March 8, reports to work that he is suffering with stress.

2pm - He buys two green rubble bags for 9.94 at B&Q in Dover.

March 6

Couzens emails his supervisor that he no longer wants to carry a firearm. He orders a tarpaulin and a bungee cargo net on Amazon which are shipped to him the next day.

READ MORE: Women arrested at Sarah Everard vigil receive payouts from Met Police Advertisement

March 8

The officer reports in sick on the day he is due to return to work.

March 9

7.11pm - Couzens' phone is wiped of all data.

7.50pm - Couzens is arrested at his home in Deal, Kent. In a brief interview, he tells a story about being threatened by an Eastern European gang.

March 10

At around 4.45pm, a body is discovered in a wooded area in Ashford, Kent, and later formally identified by dental records. It is around 100 metres from land bought by Couzens in 2019.

March 11

Couzens answers 'no comment' in formal interviews.

March 12

8.45pm: Couzens is charged with the kidnapping and murder of Ms Everard.

March 13

Vigils are held across the country to mark Ms Everard's death, but spark controversy as police respond to the gatherings which were not granted any lockdown exemptions.

One such event in Clapham Common - near to where Ms Everard originally went missing - hosted hundreds of people including the Princess of Wales.

There Patsy Stevenson and Dania Al-Obeid were both detained and held amid the ongoing Covid restrictions, with the Met criticised for its heavy-handedness.

Vigil in Clapham Common, London, near to where Ms Everard originally went missing

July 9

Couzens pleads guilty to murder when he appears at the Old Bailey by video link from Belmarsh high security jail.

September 30

Couzens receives a whole life order when he is sentenced, with Lord Justice Fulford justifying the punishment because the murderer's use of his position as a police officer to detain Ms Everard was the 'vital factor'.

Couzens, it emerged, had used his police ID and handcuffs to stage a fake arrest of Ms Everard for breaching Covid laws.

October

There are reports Couzens is applying for leave to appeal against his sentence.

November

The Home Office establishes an independent inquiry led by Dame Elish Angiolini to look at Ms Everards murder. It will consider the exposure incidents as part of an analysis of whether any opportunities to prevent the murder were missed.

March 2022

Couzens is charged with four counts of indecent exposure over alleged incidents in January and February 2021.

July 2022

The Court of Appeal rejects his appeal against his sentence.

January 17 2023

Suella Braverman tells the Commons that Dame Eilishs inquiry will also consider the crimes of Couzens fellow Met officer David Carrick, which the Home Secretary described as being part of a 'monstrous campaign of abuse.'

David Carrick, who joined the Met in 2001 before becoming an armed officer with the Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command in 2009, pleaded guilty to 49 charges, including 24 counts of rape, and was sentenced to life in prison in February 2023

February 13

Couzens pleads guilty to three counts of indecent exposure in Kent between November 2020 and February 2021.

February 14

It is revealed that one officer from each of the Met and Kent Police will face misconduct hearings over their handling of flashing reports against Couzens.

March 6

Couzens is sentenced to 19 months for the three counts of indecent exposure, with Mrs Justice May saying he had 'a dangerous belief in his invincibility, in his power sexually to dominate and abuse women without being stopped.'

March 22

Report by Baroness Casey issues a damning report into the Met Police, warning there could be more officers like Couzens.

June 15

Wayne Couzens: Killer in Plain Sight airs on Channel 5.

The Met was criticised for its heavy handling of the later stages of the vigil , with outrage that some women were bundled to the ground - like Patsy Stevenson, whose arrest picture went viral (pictured above) - and its 'tone-deaf' reaction to the negative reaction in the aftermath

September 14

The two women - Stevenson and Al-Obeid - who were arrested at the London vigil secure payouts from the Met.

Ms Stevenson, whose picture went viral at the time of her arrest as an example of police's handling of the event, said: 'It has taken over two years to reach this conclusion, it's been a really tiring and difficult process but it has felt important to push for some form of accountability and justice for myself and all women who attended the vigil to express our anger and grief over the murder of Sarah Everard by a serving Metropolitan Police officer.'

Both women broke down in tears retelling their ordeal on ITV's Good Morning Britain.
Her body was taken to a hospital in Zaragoza for autopsy

Aragon rescue teams found her on the second day of an intense search

A 65-year-old US mountaineer has been found dead at the bottom of a ravine in Spain after becoming separated from her husband during a climb.

A desperate nighttime search failed to find the climber after she disappeared during an expedition at Canal de Fabeta, Huesca province, on September 9.

The climber's husband raised the alarm after the pair became separated and she failed to show up at an agreed location.

Footage shows Spanish rescuers searching for the woman, who has not been named, at night.

Mountain rescue teams scoured the area with a helicopter and dogs before they were able to recover the body from the bottom of a ravine on Sunday.

Her body has been taken to a nearby hospital for a full autopsy.

Spanish authorities search through the night for the missing unnamed American citizen

A helicopter was used to transfer the woman to a nearby town, from which she was taken to hospital for an autopsy

Authorities received a call around 9:40pm on Saturday, September 9, reporting that a woman who was with her husband on a route through the Guasa strip trail, had gone missing and not returned to base.

After working out the route she might have taken with her husband, mountaineering specialists searched by car and later on foot, without luck.

On Sunday morning, a Civil Guard helicopter again scoured the area while ground teams brought in a search dog to support rescue efforts.

At around 12:30pm, an item of clothing was found in the Canal de Fabetas, west of the Mondarruego walls.

Rescuers found the woman having sustained significant injuries and fallen to the lower part of a ravine.

Mountain Rescue and Intervention Groups (GREIM) specialists stretchered the woman to a helicopter and transferred her back to the Boltana municipality.

She was later taken by hearse to the the Forensic Anatomical Center in Zaragoza.

The woman's body is set to be autopsied in order to establish an exact cause of death.

The Spanish Civil Guard said in a statement: 'Over the weekend, the Aragon rescue teams carried out seven interventions in which seven people were evacuated/helped, one of them was found with injuries which proved to be fatal.'

Rescuers searched the area through the night and were able to locate the body on Sunday

In 2021, two Americans died after falling into the sea from a cliff they were trying to climb on the Spanish island of Mallorca.

The pair, named locally as Mark Anthony Bacolod Stiles, 35, and Brandon Scott Burns, 25, both of Baltimore, Maryland, were killed during their ascent.

The double tragedy occurred near a cove called Cala Sa Nau, close to the eastern coast town of Portocolom.

The men, said to have been holidaying on the Mediterranean island, are understood to have been practicing deep-water soloing which is also also known as psicobloc.
A top solicitor who pinched women's bottoms in his local village pub after racking up a 150 red wine tab has been fined 25,000 for sexual assault - and narrowly avoided being struck off.

Thomas Cadman groped his victims while on a night out with his wife at the Red Lion pub in Wiltshire.

The lawyer was convicted of assaulting them after pleading guilty at a magistrates' court but has avoided being thrown out of the profession after a panel ruled it was a 'one-off' event.

The hearing of the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal was told that Cadman was Deputy Director General at the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators at the time of the sex offences.

Thomas Cadman, 43, has avoided being struck off after sexually assaulting two women

The disciplinary panel heard that on August 29, 2021 the first victim was speaking to her son at the bar in the Red Lion pub. She told the panel she felt 'two hands grabbing both my buttocks', adding: 'I could feel his fingers moving on my jeans. It immediately made me jump'. The woman said she felt 'shaken and upset'. Ten minutes later, she was standing in a 'similar position' with her back to the bar.

The court heard Cadman, pictured, invited fellow villagers to his home in Blackford Lane, Castle Easton, over Christmas, despite being investigated for the sexual assaults

The panel was told she felt the same thing again, and said she 'immediately arched my back and I saw [Cadman] standing there again'.

The second victim, who was friends with the first, was there with her husband.

After the first victim went home, the second woman said Cadman approached her and asked if her husband had gone to the toilet.

She said; 'He placed his hand around my waist [and then] squeezed my buttock. I can't recall which hand he used, but the buttock that he touched was furthest away, so his hand was right around my back.

'I was in immediate shock and pushed him away with one hand and told him to get off me. He then used one hand and tried to pull my cheek towards and I thought he may have been trying to kiss me. This wasn't a gentle grab, but didn't hurt.

'I pushed him away again and said no.'

She said she confronted him in front of his friends and he apologised, offering to buy her a drink, which she turned down.

Moments later, she said Cadman walked past her and 'brushed his hand across both of my buttocks. I said that he had just done it again and started to get upset'.

Cadman was then asked to leave the pub by the landlord.

The first victim said she now feels nervous around men while she is on her own and makes sure her husband knows where she is. She said she felt 'sick and scared' when seeing Cadman around the village.

She said she has 'nightmares' and feels worried when her husband is away.

The second victim said: 'This continues to worry me massively. I am very worried that Cadman is still in the village and it keeps me awake thinking about it. I am very upset he lives here.'

While he worked as the deputy director general at the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, he groped his victims at the Red Lion pub in Wiltshire (pictured)

The panel heard that Cadman, who was 42 at the time, pled guilty to three counts of sexual assault and was sentenced to a nine-month rehabilitation order and a fine of 300 for each offence.

Cadman told the panel he had difficulty remembering the details of what took place but was aware that he had gone to the village pub on the Sunday night.

He said he had not intended to stay at the pub for very long and sat at a table in the pub with his wife and ordered red wine.

Cadman's last recollection was that he went inside the pub and that it was still light. He remembered nothing then until the following day.

He described waking up feeling hungover which for him was unusual and his wife told him that she had been asked by the publican to take him home and had assumed that he was very drunk.

Cadman said his wife had helped him fill in the gaps in his memory the following day. He and his wife were not aware of 'anything untoward'.

After he learned the details of what happened, he wrote letters of apology to the victims.

The disciplinary panel decided not to strike him off after hearing of the solicitor's unblemished record and concluding that he had been honest and accepted the blame for his actions.

It said: 'Whilst noting that the criminal offences were intrinsically very serious, [we] decided that given all the circumstances it had heard that to strike Mr Cadman from the Roll would be disproportionately severe.

'Whilst there had been three separate incidents in the course of an hour the Tribunal did not find this to have been a pattern or a course of ingrained misconduct and found it to have been a one-off event brought about by the combination of very unfortunate circumstances, both for Mr Cadman and the victims.'
An alleged serial killer in Zimbabwe preyed on homeless victims and is said to have eaten their entrails in an eight day killing spree in the capital Harare.

Thadolwenkosi Ndlovu, 20, has been linked to a spree of five murders that took place across the city between August 28 and September 4, when he was arrested by Zimbabwean police.

Mr. Ndlovu is reported to have murdered his victims by dropping concrete blocks on their heads while they slept before extracting their organs using broken glass.

Appearing in court in Harare on Wednesday, Mr. Ndlovu appeared to walk back an earlier confession that he cooked and ate his victims flesh. He claimed that the confession of cannibalism had been extracted under duress by detectives.

He is alleged to have broiled and grilled victims entrails on an open fire, before consuming them. Police said that Mr. Ndlovu had also sought to cut off the genitals of one of his victims, but fled the scene before he was able to.

Thandolwenkosi Ndlovu, 20, right, is alleged to have murdered and cannibalised the victims of a killing spree that terrorised Harare's homeless between August 28 and September 4

Mr. Ndlovu, seen here with torn trousers, is reported to also be linked to three murder cases in his hometown of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe's second city

Mr. Ndlovu, who is reported to have been homeless himself, has been placed on remand.

Two of Mr. Ndlovus five victims have been identified. They have been named as Emmanuel Godfrey, 25, and Kutenda Chisanduro, whose age has yet to be released.

Mr. Ndlovu is charged with five counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder. He is also understood to have previously spent stints in prison in both Harare and Bulawayo, his hometown.

He is also reported to be linked to three murder cases in Bulawayo, in south-western Zimbabwe, in 2020.

There was widespread fear among the large homeless population in Harare as word of Mr. Ndlovu's murders spread. Reports suggest that some had begun to sleep in groups for safety or had temporarily left Harare.

We decided to move out of the city fearing for our lives, one homeless man told The Herald.

I am lucky to be alive, I could be dead by now. Imagine being roasted for relish, Panashe Uchena, 16, told The Standard. 'He has been arrested, but I am still afraid. The streets are not safe anymore.'

Mr. Ndlovu, centre, is said by detectives to have been wearing bloodied clothing when he was arrested on September 4

Mr. Ndlovu is reported to have moved to neighbouring South Africa from Bulawayo with his father and sister in 2019. He is said to have struggled there, before returning to Zimbabwe.

George Kandiyero, president of the Zimbabwe National Traditional Healers Association, said that reports about Mr. Ndlovus murders suggested ritualistic purposes.

It could be insanity, but at the same time this could be his beliefs of gaining some certain power from that. This is definitely found on the dark side, and it is not clear at all, he explained.

While police said that they had found no evidence indicating that the murders were made for any ritual purpose, Mr. Kandiyero said that he had met with officials to discuss the case.

Mr. Ndlovus killing spree comes only a year after another serial killer, Bright Zhantali, was arrested in connection with nine murders in a city in central Zimbabwe.
A quiet street in Essex has discovered it has become an unlikely multi-business hub after crime gangs targeted it to set up nearly 100 bogus companies.

Families in Henry Drive in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, where houses are worth up to 575,000 have been deluged with paperwork over the fake firms.

Since May, 80 have been registered to homes on the street and have nothing to do with the people living there.

The first they hear about them are when letters land or their doormats from Companies House or HMRC.

Most of the bogus businesses are wholesale clothing types and only have one officer working for them, often located in France or Morocco.

It is feared the companies have been set up by criminal gangs who intend to use them for money laundering or millions in illicit bank loans.

Families in Henry Drive (pictured) in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, where houses are worth up to 575,000 have been deluged with paperwork over the fake firms

Resident Rosalind Miller said she first returned the letter thinking it had been sent to the wrong address. She then started receiving two or three a week

Ian Ross and his wife Tess told the BBC they had six companies falsely set up at their house in the past few weeks.

Mr Ross said: 'None of these businesses have anything to do with me.

'The first one was set up at the beginning of June, the latest one was set up two days ago. This is just a quiet residential street.'

Mr Ross said that in the one post code, they now have 80 businesses registered.

'It would be like a clothing alley if it was true,' he added. 'It has got more worrying the more letters we got because it shows the system is out of control.

'They just seem to be coming out on the Companies House website which many people assume means they (the businesses) are real. It is getting complicated and it is taking up quite a lot of my time.'

Financial crime expert Graham Barrow has given a theory as to why so many people are using the addresses of strangers to register fake businesses - the companies themselves are most likely part of a money-making criminal network.

He said he calls them 'burner companies' because 'just like burner phones that you use and then throw away, so too these companies are used and discarded'.

Mr Barrow, who runs The Dark Money Files, said the companies' use was either for money laundering, obtaining a bank account or taking out loans.

'This is highly likely to be an organised crime group,' he said. 'And, if so, it is multi-million pound stuff. It is just scary.'

Urging those affected to file the paperwork to have their addresses removed, he called the situation a 'very significant problem with scam companies being set up and abusing the financial system'.

Another resident, Kit Akister, originally thought the Companies House letter was junk mail before finding out it was a scam.

Demanding to know why a business can be registered at an address without proving anything, she called the situation 'ludicrous', adding that she couldn't udnerstand why the government is allowing it to happen.

And Rosalind Miller said she first returned the letter thinking it had been sent to the wrong address. She then started receiving two or three a week.

Another resident, Kit Akister (pictured), originally thought the Companies House letter was junk mail before finding out it was a scam

'My concern was if we started getting people knocking on the door demanding money,' she said.

An HMRC spokesperson said: 'Anyone receiving correspondence to their address from HMRC for a business that they are not aware of should contact us immediately.'

A Companies House spokesperson said: 'We are sorry to hear about the difficulties these individuals are experiencing and will take action where the law allows.'

Companies House said the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Bill is set to be reformed in order to give more powers to the Registrar of Companies to crack down on the use of false addresses.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has been revealed as one of the government agencies affected by a cyberattack on a national law firm.

HWL Ebsworth was first targeted in a major cyber breach in April this year, during which data was stolen from multiple government departments.

The AFP, a client of HWL, is one of the agencies involved in the breach, with impacted members having already approached the Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA).

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has been revealed as one of the government agencies affected by a cyberattack on law firm HWL Ebsworth

AFPA President Alex Caruana said the Association was aware of the issue and held "concerns about the impact this data breach may have on (members)".

Ms Caruana confirmed members' information had been shared to the dark web as a result of the breach, and that the AFP was investigating.

"We will continue to support our members and would encourage all members who have been affected to contact the AFPA if they need support," she said.

"We continue to support the work of the federal government in the cyber security environment with the recent appointment of a National Cyber Security Coordinator and the excellent work undertaken by the Australian Cyber Security Centre in educating and supporting Australians affected by cyber attacks."

AFPA told 9 News that the members' information in question included officers' identities and email addresses.

Russian cybercriminals known as AlphV or BlackCat claimed to have posted more than 1 terabyte of stolen data on the dark web from the attack. Pictured: stock photo of a hacker

Ms Caruana said the AFP would continue to "look after" those impacted.

HWL Ebsworth, one of Australia's largest commercial law firms, was subjected to a major cyber attack with an infamous Russian hacking group claiming responsibility.

In June, Russian cybercriminals known as AlphV or BlackCat claimed to have posted more than 1 terabyte of stolen data on the dark web, after hacking the law firm in late April.
Krahl, 61, has five convictions for child abuse and possessing child pornography

A convicted paedophile snatched a ten-year-old girl outside her school and sexually abused her shortly after German police ordered parents to take down warnings he was hanging around the area.

Arthur Krahl, 61, bundled the girl into his Audi A4 just metres from her school gates in Neustadt, Rhineland-Palatinate State, Germany. He already has five convictions for child abuse.

Horrified witnesses called police who tracked down Krahl parked in a remote country road on September 11.

But when they moved in to arrest him he set off on a high speed chase down the A65 motorway with the child on the back seat.

They finally stopped and arrested him when he turned off the autobahn and then freed his sobbing victim.

Convicted paedophile Arthur Krahl (pictured), 61, snatched a ten-year-old girl outside her school and sexually abused her

Krahl bundled the girl into his Audi A4 just metres from her school gates in Neustadt, Rhineland-Palatinate State, Germany (pictured)

Krahl had previously been jailed for sexually abusing five children and possessing child pornography.

Local media revealed that neighbours had warned police and parents of his predatory behaviour many times after his release from prison.

Several parents shared pictures of him on social media after he was seen lurking around schools, kindergartens and playgrounds.

But police and local state officials ordered them to remove the images and stop 'spreading rumours'.

One local, bus driver Sven Goedel, 44, said: 'This criminal pulled a 16-year-old into the car in Lambrecht a few weeks ago and still remained free.

'I can not comprehend that. This is a judicial scandal and we are all afraid of this man here.'

An ex-neighbour of Krahl's said: 'We always warned everyone about him, but the police kept letting him go.

He sped away with the child on the backseat of the Audi (pictured) and engaged in high speed chase down the A65 before police caught him

'Even when he once told the judge at a hearing that his next victim could no longer identify him. He openly threatened murder!'

A local added: 'We always kept an eye on this guy to protect our children. Because no matter what he did, he always came out. We felt defenseless against him.'

Local mayor Ludwig Lintz, thanked the sharp-eyed parents after Krahl was caught.

He said: 'The city of Edenkoben thinks what happened is very bad.

'The state must do everything in its power to prevent this from happening in the future. Legal regulations that restrict preventative measures should be reviewed.

'The protection of the child is a top priority.

'Fortunately, there are courageous people who pay attention to their surroundings and thus prevented something worse from happening.'

It comes a week after the country was rocked when a married father of two was accused of breaking into a German care home and raping a 10-year-old girl, who was later killed.

Daniel Troger, 25, allegedly raped young Lena before going on to watch pornography with an 11-year-old boy, who later allegedly strangled the girl to death.

The boy cannot be identified for legal reasons.
China has tried to 'headhunt' British nationals in 'key positions with sensitive knowledge and experience' including from Government and the military, the Government said today.

In response to a highly critical report into its efforts to stem the spread of China's power in the UK, the Government said some of the Communist regime's actions 'crosses the line from influence to interference'.

Easier this year, the all-party Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) warned Britain faces a 'nightmare scenario' of China controlling our nuclear power stations, universities and technology sector.

It accused the Government of responding at a 'glacial pace' to the issues.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak today insisted he was 'clear-eyed about that challenge' posed by the autocratic Asian giant. But in its response to the report, the Government insisted it would seek a 'positive trade and investment relationship' with the economic superpower where it could.

It comes amid a row over a man accused of spying for China in Westminster. The former researcher to Tory MPs, who has declared his innocence, was held on suspicion of breaching the Official Secrets Act in March, it was revealed at the weekend.

But a former top civil servant today suggested that politicians had over-reacted.

Lord McDonald told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'It is a legitimate objective of any embassy in London to find out what is happening in Westminster.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak today insisted he was 'clear-eyed about that challenge' posed by the autocratic Asian giant

But in its response to the report, the Government insisted it would seek a 'positive trade and investment relationship' with the economic superpower where it could

Lord McDonald told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'It is a legitimate objective of any embassy in London to find out what is happening in Westminster'

A report by The Times this week also said two potential Tory candidates to become MPs were dropped by the party after MI5 warned they could be Chinese spies.

But Lord McDonald told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'Of course we see that China is active but so are friendly countries, and I do not think we can have one rule for United States and France and Germany and another for China. We have to be consistent in our approach with all embassies.'

Asked whether he was saying MPs had overreacted to the news, he added: 'I think that is a possibility.

'Parliament is essentially an unclassified environment, so it would need to take a deep breath and think what the potential damage, and if it is not great then we can dial down our reaction.'

In 2021, it was reported China owns 143billion in UK assets, from nuclear power to schools. Nearly 200 UK companies are controlled by groups or individuals based in China or count them as minority shareholders.

Chinese investors were said to own nearly 57billion of shares in the UK's biggest listed companies. China also had more than 1billion in investments in UK-based pharmaceutical and energy companies.

China has also offered financial incentives to British academics to promote their causes while sending 120,000 students to study at UK universities.

The ISC report said China had exploited the 'completely inadequate' steps to prevent Beijing penetrating every sector of the UK's economy.

An apparent disregard for the security implications has allowed it to exert 'control over the UK's critical national infrastructure'.

The report, compiled with the assistance of MI5 and MI6, suggested a desperation to acquire Chinese investment had led to security concerns being dismissed.

Its authors warned: 'Without swift action, we are on a trajectory for the nightmare scenario where China steals blueprints, sets standards and builds products, exerting political and economic influence at every step. This has the potential to pose an existential threat to democratic systems.'

In its full response, the Government said: '[We recognise] that Chinese recruitment schemes have tried to headhunt British and allied nationals in key positions and with sensitive knowledge and experience, including from Government, military, industry and wider society. As the committee notes, there is more work to be done.'

In a written statement alongside the response, Mr Sunak said: 'I am particularly conscious that many of the issues detailed in the committee's report, and wider concerns about foreign interference, highlight the necessity for a robust approach to any and all state threat activity.

'It remains an absolute priority for the Government to take all necessary steps to protect the United Kingdom from any foreign state activity which seeks to undermine our national security, prosperity and democratic values.

'I am clear-eyed about that challenge and will call out unacceptable behaviour directly just as I did last weekend with Premier Li at the G20 Summit in New Delhi.'

But the Government has said that a ban on Chinese-backed Confucius Institutes would be 'disproportionate', after concerns were raised earlier this year about their presence on university campuses in Britain.

Last summer, when running to be Tory leader, Mr Sunak had promised to close all 30 of Beijing's institutes in Britain.
5,100 people are known to have died, with numbers set to rise steeply

Derna, in eastern Libya, was devastated by floods after dams burst on Sunday

Thousands of people who have died in Libyas devastating floods could have been saved had early warning and emergency management systems functioned properly, the United Nations said today.

Petteri Taalas, head of the UNs World Meteorological Organization (WMO), said that with better coordination, authorities could have avoided most of the human casualties'.

At least 5,100 people are known to have died after floods swept through the city of Derna on Sunday, according to latest figures from Libyan officials. Thousands are still believed to be missing.

Mr Taalas told reporters that if authorities had a properly functioning meteorological service then they could have issued the warnings and the emergency management forces would have been able to carry out the evacuation of the people.

He added that complications arose from institutions not functioning normally and the WMO had been in contact with authorities to help reform their meteorological system  but that these efforts had been hampered by security threats.

At least 5,100 people are known to have died in floods that swept through the eastern Libyan city of Derna on Sunday. Officials warned the death toll could rise heavily in the coming days

Roads into Derna have been badly damaged, slowing the arrival of international aid and humanitarian assistance both from within Libya and from abroad

Rescue workers have been working to retrieve bodies and look for survivors still trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings in and around Derna

The floods that hit the port city of Derna have been described as 'tsunami-like', although nearby towns were also badly affected

Reconstruction efforts are likely to be difficult, as Libya has suffered from significant political and economic instability since the uprising that overthrew Muammar Gaddafi in 2011

On Sunday night, Derna residents said they heard explosions as two dams outside the city collapsed, causing waters to rush down the valley that cuts through the city.

Rescue operations have been complicated by political fractures in Libya that has been without a strong central government since a NATO-backed uprising toppled long-standing leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

The internationally-recognised Government of National Unity, based in Tripoli, does not exercise authority over eastern Libya, including Derna, which is controlled by a rival administration.

Derna, which was worst affected by flooding that followed Storm Daniel, has begun burying people in mass graves outside the city, as search teams scoured for survivors. Bodies are also being transferred to nearby towns and cities for burial.

More than 3,000 bodies were buried by Thursday morning, said eastern Libya's health minister, Othman Abduljaleel, while another 2,000 were still being processed.

Bodies have been buried in mass graves outside the city and transported to nearby towns, as rescuers scour devastated buildings and the nearby coast for survivors and bodies

People search ruined buildings of Derna. Rescue efforts have been ongoing for days, although hopes of finding survivors are dwindling

Storm Daniel, which battered eastern Libya over the weekend, triggered the collapse of nearby dams which caused a devastating onrush of water through the port city

Bodies of flood victims are transported for burial in Derna. Aid operations have been hampered by Libya's political divide. The internationally recognised government of Libya, based in Tripoli, does not exercise authority over eastern Libya

Libya has seen military aircraft from countries in Europe and the Middle East bringing in emergency aid as the international community seeks to aid relief efforts

Derna mayor Abdel Raham al-Ghaithi said the death toll could climb to 20,000, in comments given to the Saudi-owned Al Arabia television station.

An official with the UN's World Health Organisation in Libya said the fatalities could reach 7,000, given the number of people who were still missing.

'The numbers could surprise and shock all of us,' said the official.

The floods have displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, according to the UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM). Several thousands of others were forced to leave their homes in other eastern towns, IOM said.

The floods damaged or destroyed many access roads to Derna, complicating the arrival of international rescue teams and humanitarian assistance.

Petteri Taalas, of the UNs World Meteorological Organization, said that authorities could have avoided most of the human casualties' had warning systems worked effectively

The floods washed through Derna with such ferocity that the waters washed people, cars, and buildings out to sea

Dozens of Egyptians and Sudanese that were in Derna and surrounding towns are known to have died in the disaster

The floods have displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, according to the UN's International Organization for Migration, with several thousand forced to leave their homes elsewhere

Rescue workers are combing the sea to look for bodies washed out into the Mediterranean

The devastation reflected Storm Daniels intensity but also Libya's crumbling infrastructure. Libyas division between vying governments has resulted in widespread neglect of infrastructure.

The dams that collapsed outside Derna were built in the 1970s and have not been maintained for years, local media reported.

The storm also hit other areas in eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Um Razaz and Marj, leaving around 170 dead, the health minister said.

The dead in eastern Libya include at least 84 Egyptians, who were transferred to their home country on Wednesday. More than 70 came from one village in the southern province of Beni Suef.

Libyan media also said dozens of Sudanese migrants were also killed.
The lover of runaway aristocrat Constance Marten did not attend court today after firing his solicitors before the start of the trial over the death of their newborn baby.

Mark Gordon, 48, and his girlfriend Constance, 35, sparked a huge police hunt after they went on the run with their daughter in January this year.

Baby Victoria was later found dead in a plastic bag in a shed under a heap of nappies on a Brighton allotment.

Gordon did not appear at the Old Bailey for todays hearing. A note from HMP Belmarsh said he was not well enough to attend as he had been up all night and could not concentrate.

Gordon had previously complained about being produced at court on a video-link and asked to be produced in court in person.

Accused baby killer Mark Gordon (pictured) did not attend court today after firing his solicitors

Gordon, 48, and aristocrat girlfriend Constance Marten (pictured), 35, sparked a huge police hunt after they went on the run with their new born baby in January this year

Their baby, Victoria, was later found dead in a plastic bag in a shed under a heap of nappies on a Brighton allotment. Pictured is a tribute to Victoria

The court heard there had been a breakdown in the relationship between Gordon and his solicitors.

His current solicitor Kevin Light told the court he could no longer represent him.

Marten and Gordon are accused of the manslaughter of Victoria, concealment of the birth of a child and perverting the course of justice. Their trial is set for 2 January 2024.

Hundreds of officers from the Metropolitan Police and Sussex Police, as well as search and rescue volunteers, scoured 90 square miles of land in the search for the baby.

The couple were caught on CCTV wearing heavy outdoor clothing, carrying bags down the street, before they were arrested.

They were reported missing on 5 January after their car caught fire on the M61 near Bolton.

It is thought Marten had given birth just a few days before and had not been assessed by medical professionals.

Over the following days, there were sightings of them in a number of places, including Liverpool, Essex, south London and East Sussex.

The couple had been sleeping rough in a blue tent and had avoided being traced by the police by only making payments in cash and booking hotels using false names.

The court heard there had been a breakdown in the relationship between Gordon (pictured outside court in March) and his solicitors

Courts artist sketch by Elizabeth Cook of Mark Gordon, with a grey jumper over his head, and Constance Marten appearing at Crawley Magistrates Court in March

Marten was born to a wealthy family and grew up at Dorset estate Crichel House and her grandmother was a playmate of Princess Margaret.

The promising drama student met Gordon in 2016 and they led a nomadic lifestyle after leaving their home in southeast London last September.

Martens estranged father Napier Marten is a former page to the late Queen and her mother was the Queen Mothers goddaughter.

Marten worked as a freelance photographer before starting her drama course, and dropped out when she met Gordon.

Mr Marten and her mother Virginie de Selliers made public pleas for Constances whereabouts through the media while police offered a 10,000 reward for information leading to the couple being found.
Police raided the boat and found guns and illegal drugs on board after reports that a woman had passed out

New documents show that a woman on board Burke's luxury yacht told a friend that they had been making 'pornographic films'

Scott Burke was released on $200k bail last week after his lawyer revealed the retired doctor had stage four terminal cancer

Porn was being filmed onboard a retired doctor's party yacht before cops swooped and arrested him on suspicion of drug and gun charges, according to new police documents.

Scott Burke, 69, was released on a $200,000 bail last week after his lawyer told Plymouth Court that he has terminal stage four cancer - and just months to live.

His 82-foot-long yacht called the JessConn, named after his two children, was raided on September 5 in Nantucket after a woman on board called a friend for help.

The woman told the man, 'they were doing drugs all weekend long and people on the boat had been making pornographic films', according to a police warrant obtained by the Nantucket Current.

She added that she wanted to leave the boat before passing out, causing her male friend to contact authorities - telling them that she had overdosed.

Scott Burke, 69, was released on a $200,000 bail last week after his lawyer told a Nantucket court that he has terminal stage four cancer - and just months to live.

Police raided his yacht, JessConn, (pictured) after a man called 911 claiming a female friend had phoned him from the vessel before passing out

The man told the Nantucket Police Department that the boat had ketamine, Adderall, ecstasy and cocaine on board.

Law enforcement sources previously told the Current that several prostitutes were found on the boat. No charges have been brought against Burke on these claims.

A police report previously said that cops raided the boat after reports of a distressed woman who 'did not feel safe' on board and possibly suffered an overdose.

Burke was charged with one count of trafficking a Class B drug, one count of possession to distribute a Class A drug, one count of possession of ammunition without a license and four counts of possession of a large-capacity feeding device.

He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was 'extremely uncooperative' when police boarded the yacht and was placed in handcuffs and detained because of his behavior, according to an affidavit.

The married father-of-two claimed that the woman who overdosed had been working for him for a few weeks, and her female friend was staying on the boat.

Burke, who practiced in Denver, Colorado, initially denied knowing that there were illegal drugs on the luxury boat.

Both women also denied knowing about the drugs, though one claimed she had a prescription for Adderall.

The woman told the man: 'they were doing drugs all weekend long and people on the boat had been making pornographic films', according to a police warrant

The married father-of-two claimed that the woman who overdosed had been working for him for a few weeks, and her female friend was staying on the boat.

Burke (pictured with his family) has pleaded not guilty to the charges and was 'extremely uncooperative' when police boarded the yacht

Authorities found 43 grams of cocaine, 14 grams of ketamine, a .380 pistol, three 30-round 9mm magazines, and a 12-round magazine in a 9mm pistol, according to the police report.

It also revealed that multiple rounds of ammo were found on the bedroom floor of the yacht, with the doctor allegedly admitting the guns were his.

Burke told authorities he owned the boat and had a license to carry firearms - with the investigation confirming that Burke's license to carry in Florida expired in 2022.

He is currently living at the Ocean Reef Club, a private, gated estate in Key Largo in Florida.

The area is known for opulent residences with one six-bed, 10-bath Ocean Reef home, for example, currently on the market for $35 million in the area.

Police said in a prior statement that a woman was taken to Nantucket Cottage Hospital after reports that she needed 'medical assistance' on September 5, at 7.45am.

They added: 'As a result of this information, the boat was identified and located within the Nantucket Harbor Anchorage.

'Authorities responded to the boat and located the involved woman and identified the owner who was also onboard.

The retired doctor, who set up a medical insurance company where both his kids work, appears to have owned several other crafts. Pictured: Scott Burke (right) and wife Ellen

The Key Largo hideaway features a marine, three 'championship' golf courses and its own private airport with security said to be so tight at the that even visitors are fingerprinted

Authorities boarded the boat in the harbor of the ritzy Massachusetts island, with the 80-ft motor yacht being registered in the Cayman Islands

'The owner of the boat was arrested by Nantucket Police Department for one count of Possession of a Firearm without a license. This case remains under investigation at this time.'

Attorney for Burke Henry Brennan - who once represented local crime boss Whitey Bulger  told the court during a hearing that his client has an unspecified type of terminal cancer.

Speaking to Nantucket District Judge James Sullivan last week, Brennan reportedly revealed Burke's health battle, arguing that given Burke's lack of a record, the court should opt against holding him for pretrial detention.

'To have this man potentially spend the rest of his life waiting for a case in jail, to me, would be very, very tragic,' the lawyer argued.

Burke, who owns a $2.3million mansion in Englewood, Colorado, appears to have named the vessel after his children.

He set up a medical insurance company where both his children work, and appears to have owned several other crafts.

Attorney for Burke Henry Brennan - who once represented local crime boss Whitey Bulger  told the court during a hearing that his client has an unspecified type of terminal cancer

The Coast Guard and Nantucket Police launched a probe after a woman was taken from the vessel, called the Jess Conn, after a 'wellness check'

He is also the manager of JessConn Charters - based in Florida - though it is unclear how much or if he was charging customers to travel on a vessel used in that venture.

It recently ran aground in Florida in May, but appears to have escaped without significant damage in the incident.

Coast Guard Station Brant Point's executive petty officer Jeff Wecal confirmed that his crew is assisting the Nantucket Police Department in its investigation.

The boat was designed by Jeff Leishman, and boasts four decks of over 24 meters each.

It has three large guest cabins, an owner's cabin, a laundry room, as well as a main saloon and formal dining room.

The yacht also has a hot tub on board, and can house up to eight guests as well as accommodation for two crew members. It was registered in the Cayman Islands.

According to public records, Burke has a hearing in Nantucket scheduled for October. He is allowed to remain in Florida until then.
Donald Trump says while Joe Biden is 'grossly incompetent,' he does not feel he is too old to be president.

With just three years separating the two 2024 frontrunners, many are concerned over the increasing age of presidential candidates  as well as other leaders in Congress.

Polling shows that more than three-fourths of Americans feel that Biden, 80, is too old to serve another four years in office.

But Trump, 77, told Megyn Kelly in a SiriusXM interview airing on the Triumph Channel that age isn't the issue.

'I have many friends that are in their 80s. I have friends that are in their 90s and they're sharp as a tack. Just, I mean I would say, just about what they used to be. No, not old. He's incompetent,' Trump said of Biden.

Former President Donald Trump, 77, said in an interview with Megyn Kelly on Thursday that President Joe Biden, 80, isn't 'too old' for another term  but is 'grossly incompetent' to continue serving in the White House

Trump mentioned that Winston Churchill was Prime Minister of the U.K. until he was 80

The ex-President said there are many people he knows that are old and still competent  like 94-year-old businessman Bernie Marcus. He also noted that Winston Churchill served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom until he was 80, at which point he resigned following a series of health issues, including strokes.

After leading Britain during World War Two, Churchill became Prime Minister for a second time in 1951, when he was 76.

He resigned on April 5, 1955 when he was 80, and was succeeded by Anthony Eden.

In June 1953, when he was 78, Churchill suffered a stroke, which was initially not made public while he recuperated.

Following his stroke Churchill faced pressure from some senior colleagues to retire but carried on for nearly two years, convinced that only he could handle the threat posed by the Soviet Union. He continued to serve as a Member of Parliament until 1964, when he was 89, and died the following year aged 90.

If Biden were reelected he would break his own record for being the oldest-ever inaugurated U.S. president at 82 years old.

Trump is the second-oldest president following Biden. He was inaugurated at the age of 70. He beat former President Ronald Reagan by just about a year.

'Age is interesting, because some people are very sharp and some people do lose it, but you lose it at 40 and 50 also,' Trump told Kelly. 'But no, he's not too old at all. He's grossly incompetent.'

'You look at some of the great world leaders, they were in their 80s and they did  I mean, Churchill, so many people. They were phenomenal in their 80s. You know, there's a great wisdom if you're not in a position like him, but if you go back 25 years, he wasn't the sharpest tack either.'

Kelly and Trump don't have the most civil history.

The former Fox News host and ex-President have publicly sparred stemming back to the 2016 election.

Trump sat down with former Fox News host Megyn Kelly, who now has her own podcast The Megyn Kelly Show, despite the duo's tense past

Trump told CNN in the days after the August 2015 primary debate that Kelly had 'blood coming out of her eyes, blood coming out of her wherever.'

It seems the feud is now water under the bridge as Kelly released Thursday morning clips of her sit-down interview with Trump.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who often places second to Trump in 2024 primary polls, said in an interview with CBS News that aired on Tuesday that he is also concerned over the age of some of his competitors.

'Presidency is not a job for someone who's 80 years old,' DeSantis said, adding that age is a 'legitimate concern' for voters.

He added that if the Founding Fathers knew how old some of these leaders would be in the future, they would have likely put an age cap on certain offices.

An Associated Press/NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll released last month shows 77 percent of Americans think Biden is too old to serve a second term. This include a whopping 69 percent of Democrats.

Despite this statistic, there are not legitimate challengers in the Democratic primary against Biden. Both Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Marianne Williamson have launched longshot bids for the nomination.

The same AP/NORC poll shows 51 percent of Americans think Trump is too old to be president again.
Greater Manchester Police has been the victim of a major cyber attack in which thousands of officers' warrant card details have been stolen.

The hack is believed to have been aimed at a contactor firm used to produce the force's warrant cars. Officers and staff were informed of the breach of their data yesterday.

The incident follows a near-identical cyber attack against the Metropolitan Police last month.

ACC Colin McFarlane of GMP said: 'We are aware of a ransomware attack affecting a third-party supplier of various UK organisations, including GMP, which holds some information on those employed by GMP. At this stage, it's not believed this data includes financial information.

Greater Manchester Police has been the victim of a major cyber attack in which thousands of officers' warrant card details have been stolen

'We understand how concerning this is for our employees so, as we work to understand any impact on GMP, we have contacted the Information Commissioners Office and are doing everything we can to ensure employees are kept informed, their questions are answered, and they feel supported.

ACC Colin McFarlane of Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said: 'This is being treated extremely seriously, with a nationally led criminal investigation into the attack'

'This is being treated extremely seriously, with a nationally led criminal investigation into the attack.'

Last month, Scotland Yard feared the names and pictures of officers were in the hands of hackers following a massive security breach.

The force's 47,000 personnel were warned of the data leak when hackers managed to penetrate the IT systems of a contractor printing warrant cards and staff passes.

Vetting levels and ID numbers were also feared to be among the information taken. The National Crime Agency was called in amid fears terrorists or organised gangs could use the stolen data.

A Met Police spokesman said last month: 'We have been made aware of unauthorised access to the IT system of a Met supplier. We are working with the company to understand if there has been any security breach relating to Metropolitan Police data.

'The company had access to names, ranks, photos, vetting levels and pay numbers for officers and staff.

'The company did not hold personal information such as addresses, phone numbers or financial details. Security measures have been taken by the MPS as a result of this report. The MPS has reported the matter to the National Crime Agency. The Information Commissioner's Office is also aware.'
Four Dallas cops have been hospitalized after a driver in a pick-up truck plowed into them as they responded to a domestic shooting on Thursday morning.

The officers had been called to reports of a shooting earlier involving a woman, her boyfriend and her ex-boyfriend.

While waiting outside the property, an unknown driver in a different vehicle smashed into the police cars after barreling down a side street and into the barricade.

A man and a woman were in the pick-up and police say the driver, who has not yet been identified, stayed at the scene but they would not confirm whether he was arrested.

The officers were hit by a pick-up as they tried to negotiate with an armed hostage taker

They say he was 'uninvolved' in the domestic incident but it's unclear what exactly led to the crash, and a blood test for intoxicants was negative.

In the chaos, one of the men involved in the original disturbance tried to flee, jumping out of a window before eventually being arrested himself.

One officer was left unable to walk and all four were taken to the citys Parkland Hospital where one was treated for minor injuries, one for a suspected broken foot, with evaluations underway on the other two.

One of the victims was also taken to hospital but is expected to recover fully.

Two women and two children were inside the home as the gunman entered in the early hours

The driver of the pick-up was tested for alcohol but the results came back negative
A man crossing a busy major road in Sydney's west was hit by a car and catapulted into the air, with confronting CCTV footage capturing the incident.

Paramedics were called to the intersection of Smithfield Rd and Polding St in Fairfield West at 7.20pm on Thursday following reports of the collision between a car and a pedestrian, police said.

Video shows the man waiting on the edge of the road, not at a designated crossing, before walking out when traffic appears to slow to a halt.

The 41-year-old man makes it across the closest lanes but when he steps out from behind a stopped car onto the far lanes, there is a vehicle bearing down on him.

He then tries to run across the lane as the car brakes, but is hit and sent summersaulting into the air. He then lands on the asphalt in front of another car.

The pedestrian, 41, was rushed to hospital in a serious but stable condition (pictured)

Detectives were seen bagging evidence near to a pair of runners tossed onto the road

'Officers from Fairfield City Police Area Command arrived to find the man suffering serious head injuries and he was treated on scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics,' police said.

The man was transported to Liverpool Hospital in a critical condition, but is now in a serious but stable condition.

'The driver, a 62-year-old man, was not injured and was taken to Fairfield Hospital for mandatory testing.'

At least three ambulances and three patrol cars were dispatched to the site and police have established a crime scene.

The man crossed the major road not at a designated crossing (pictured)

He did not see the traffic going in the other direction and was behind a car which had stopped

The side view mirror caught the man and sent him summersaulting into the air

Police are investigating the crash and the driver was taken to hospital for mandatory testing

Bystanders and drivers gathered on the edge of the road as detectives scoured the area for evidence next to the man's pair of running shoes which had been tossed onto the bitumen.

'Investigations have commenced into the circumstances surrounding the crash,' police said.

Inquiries are ongoing.
Three Metropolitan Police officers could be fired after allegations of gross misconduct by carrying out a strip search on a 15-year-old schoolgirl wrongly accused of cannabis possession.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said on Thursday that the officers will face a misconduct hearing, and a fourth lesser misconduct meeting, over the treatment of Child Q.

The girl was strip-searched while on her period with no appropriate adult present, at a school in Hackney, east London in December 2020, after being accused of carrying drugs.

No drugs were found in her bags or outer clothing, and she was then strip-searched by two female officers with two male officers standing outside. Again no drugs were found.

Met bosses have been told by the IOPC that they should consider writing formal letters of apology to Child Q and her mother.

People protest outside Stoke Newington Police Station in London, over the treatment of Child Q, a black 15-year-old schoolgirl who was strip-searched by police while on her period

IOPC director Steve Noonan said: 'The 'strip search' of Child Q, a 15-year-old girl, at her school in Hackney caused widespread concern. We have investigated the circumstances surrounding how this child was treated that day as fully as possible.

'We've found that four officers involved in the incident should face disciplinary proceedings for the parts they played. Ultimately it will be for that disciplinary panel to decide whether the allegations against them are proven.

'We will now be liaising with the Met Police around disciplinary proceedings. We've kept Child Q's representatives and the officers involved updated throughout our investigation.'

The three officers accused of gross misconduct face allegations that the decision to carry out the search was inappropriate, Child Q was discriminated against because of her race and sex, there was no appropriate adult present and the officers did not get authorisation from a supervisor.

If gross misconduct is proven, the officers could be sacked.

The fourth officer will have a disciplinary meeting over the fact that no appropriate adult was present.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said on Thursday that the officers will face a misconduct hearing, and a fourth lesser misconduct meeting, over the treatment of Child Q

Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, who leads policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, said: 'We have been clear in saying that the experience of Child Q should never have happened and was truly regrettable.

'While we have publicly apologised, I am also writing formally to Child Q and her family to say sorry for the trauma that we caused her.

'It will now be for the hearing panel to determine whether the matters against the three officers are proven and it is important we don't pre-judge the outcome.'

He said that more senior levels of authorisation are now needed for strip searches and that the number of such searches being carried out has been reduced because the force 'had been overusing this power'.

The IOPC is calling for police intimate search powers to be reviewed, calling on the Home Office and policing bodies to better safeguard children and make sure that officers understand the importance of having an appropriate adult present.

The watchdog has investigated four other incidents since Child Q where children were strip-searched by Met officers.

Two have resulted in officers either facing disciplinary meetings or so-called internal 'reflective practices' - a strip search of a child in custody in 2022 with no appropriate adult, and the search of a 15-year-old girl at Walworth Police Station in December 2020 who was found to have a sharpened stick and a Stanley knife.

The third was a strip search of a 16-year-old boy at Ilford police station in January 2020 where no further action is being taken against the officers involved.

For the fourth, a strip search of a 16-year-old boy at Bethnal Green police station in October 2020, the IOPC investigation has yet to be completed but it is expected that no disciplinary proceedings will result.
Ukraine destroyed a state-of-the-art Russian air defence system in an overnight drone and missile attack in annexed Crimea, Kyiv has claimed.

Kyiv's security service (SBU) managed to blind the S-400 'Triumf' system by firing a series of drones at its radar and antenna before the Navy fired two of its newly-developed Neptune cruise missiles at the system's launch complexes, a Ukrainian intelligence source said.

Footage showed powerful explosions and a plume of smoke rising in the night sky near the western town of Yevatoriya, which is where the Russian facility is located.

The strikes on the S-400 are significant since the air defence system and associated radar should detect and nullify drones and missiles over 200 miles.

And it illustrates yet again the success of Ukraine's Neptune anti-ship missile, which has been modified to attack ground targets, military analysts say.

Video footage showed powerful explosions erupting near the town of Yevatoriya

Video footage showed powerful explosions and a plume of smoke rising in the night sky near the western town of Yevatoriya, which is where the Russian facility is located

The strikes on the S-400 (file image) is significant since the state-of-the-art air defence system and associated radar should detect and nullify drones and missiles over some 200 miles

Last month, Ukraine detonated a modified subsonic Neptune missile in Crimea, destroying another of Russia's S-400 Triumf air defence systems in a spectacular explosion that also took out Russian troops.

Initial speculation was that Kyiv had used a British or French supplied Storm Shadow missile with pinpoint accuracy in last month's deadly strike on Olenivka at Cape Tarkhankut in northwest Crimea.

But a Ukrainian official confirmed that the attack was '100 per cent carried out by a modified Neptune'.

Russia has yet to comment on the latest attack on the S-400 Triumf system. Instead, Moscow said its air defences shot down 11 attack drones overnight over Crimea, which Russia seized and annexed from Ukraine in 2014.

Debris from the Ukrainian drones was found in Yevpatoriya, said Russian reports, while locals reported hearing 15 explosions that caused buildings to shake.

The S-400 'Triumf' system is designed to destroy aircraft, cruise and ballistic missiles, including medium-range missiles. It can also be used on ground targets.

Separately in the Russian region of Saratov, near the village of Krasny Oktyabr, a huge explosion on a major gas pipeline sent flames shooting into the sky today.

The cause of this giant blast was not immediately clear and an investigation is underway, but Russia is facing a rising tide of sabotage attacks.

Moscow said its air defences shot down 11 attack drones (left) overnight over Crimea (right), which Russia seized and annexed from Ukraine in 2014

Debris from the Ukrainian drones was found in Yevpatoriya, said Russian reports, while locals reported hearing 15 explosions that caused buildings to shake

Debris from the Ukrainian drones was found in Yevpatoriya

Separately in the Russian region of Saratov, near the village of Krasny Oktyabr, a huge explosion on a major gas pipeline sent flames shooting into the sky today

In the Black Sea, Russias defence ministry claimed its forces had repelled a concerted attack by five kamikaze marine drones on patrol ship Sergei Kotov.

The ship had used its weapons to destroy the sea drones, according to Russian sources.

Meanwhile, three aircraft-type aerial drones were downed in the Bryanak region close to the Ukrainian border, say the Moscow authorities.

Ukraine has stepped up its attacks on Russia - and Putin-held territory - in recent weeks.

On Wednesday, Ukraine launched missiles at the Crimean port of Sevastopol, home to the Russian navy's Black Sea Fleet, in an attack that signalled Ukraine's growing missile capabilities.

The missile attack on the Sevastopol Shipyard caused heavy damage to a large Russian landing ship and submarine, commercial satellite imagery showed.

Kyiv said on Wednesday the two vessels were likely beyond repair after the pre-dawn missile attack on the port city while Russia's defence ministry confirmed the strike, but said the vessels would be fully repaired and return to service.

Overhead images of the shipyard taken by the Black Sky company the day before and the day of the September 13 attack showed two vessels in dry dock were visibly damaged.

Overhead images of the shipyard taken by the Black Sky company the day before and the day of the September 13 attack showed two vessels in dry dock were visibly damaged (centre)

'The Minsk Project 775 Ropucha-class landing ship and the Rostov-on-Don Kilo-class submarine vessels... sustained damage,' the company wrote on the X social media platform late on Wednesday, publishing the images.

The strike was seen by military analysts as the biggest attack of the war on Sevastopol, which is home of the Russian navy's Black Sea Fleet.

Meanwhile, Ukraine has continued to use its newly-developed Neptune missiles in the war - as was the case in today's overnight strike.

The new missile is now designed to hit ground targets, with modifications including changes to its GPS system and a vastly extended range.

One of the anti-ship missiles famously sank the Moskva flagship of Vladimir Putin's Black Sea Fleet last year.

Kyiv has had to turn to the development of its own long-range missiles after allied nations supplying munitions stipulated that they could not be used outside of Ukraine's territory.
Cops are now appealing for the public's help to find the assailant

Bystanders intervened before he could attack the woman

Man attacked woman, 36, on August 28 on Clarkson Avenue in Brooklyn

The New York City Police Department is on the hunt for a sexual predator who pushed a 36-year-old woman to the ground, choked her and tried to expose his genitals in an attempted assault in Brooklyn.

The attack took place on August 28 on Clarkson Avenue in Brooklyn, near Prospect Park.

It was 9.40pm when he approached the woman and pounced on her.

Bystanders intervened and he fled on foot.

NYPD is on hunt for a man (pictured) in a green T-shirt, brown pants and black sneakers who allegedly assaulted a female in Brooklyn before he fled

The NYPD issued an appeal for information to help find the suspect on Thursday morning.

He is yet to be identified.

The man, who is believed to be around 5ft5 and weighs 180lb, was last seen wearing a green T-shirt, brown pants and black sneakers.

It's unclear whether or not the victim and perpetrator knew each other, or if it was a random attack.

72 of 77 police precincts in New York City saw spikes in crime last year - including five in which the rate has doubled, data from the New York Police Department shows.

The man assaulted a female victim at around 9.40pm on Monday, August 28, by pushing her to the ground, climbing on top of her and choking her in front of 61 Clarkson Avenue, Brooklyn

Two precincts, including the one covering the city's scenic Central Park, recorded no change at all - a statistic that may be misleading when compared to areas that are more populated.

Only three recorded a marginal decrease in criminal offenses.

Rape has increased by more than 35 percent last year and overall crime in the Big Apple has skyrocketed by 41.65 percent, according to the data.

The sexual assault occurred within the 71st Precinct.

Brooklyn's 72nd Precinct in Sunset Park and 69th Precinct in Canarsie saw crime increase by more than 100 percent, with increases of 107 and 105 percent, respectively.

Anyone with information in regard to this incident is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).

The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website at https://crimestoppers.nypdonline.org/, on Twitter @NYPDTips.
Prison escapee Danelo Cavalcante planned to drive to Canada in a stolen car before he was captured by a hero K-9 named Yoda after two weeks on the run, a US Marshall has revealed.

Cavalcante, 34, survived for two weeks on the run by eating watermelon he stole from a farm, drinking water from a stream, and burying his feces so police wouldn't find it, according to supervisory Deputy US Marshall Robert Clark, who led the manhunt and described the killer as 'calm and cool' after his capture.

The Brazil native, who was in the country illegally, escaped from the Chester County Prison, 30 miles west of Philadelphia, by crab-walking up a wall just days after he was sentenced to life for the murder of his ex-girlfriend Deborah Brandao in 2021.

Brandao's sister, Saraha Brandao, thanked police for their work on Wednesday, saying the family is 'deeply grateful for the support and hard work but in by aw enforcement throughout the past days.'

She added: 'At this moment my family and I need to regroup and focus on processing everything that happened while taking care of ourselves.

Prison escapee Danelo Cavalcante was captured on Wednesday morning

He was found by a hero K-9 named Yoda after two weeks on the run

'The past two weeks have been extremely painful and terrifying as it brought back all the feelings from losing my sister and the thought of the perpetrator hurting us again.'

Speaking on NewsNation, Clark said Cavalcante agreed to talk through an interpreter after his capture and was 'brutally honest,' about his time on the run, saying he only moved at night and stayed hidden under thick underbrush during the day.

'He said he intended to carjack somebody in the community and head north to Canada or try to get back to Puerto Rico,' Clark said.

'He said he was going to do that in the next 24 hours and that was the reason he kept that fire arm. He knew he needed a weapon in order to get a vehicle.'

Cavalcante said he did not move far from Chester County Prison during his first three days on the run, and that he was almost 'stepped on' several times by police, who got as close as seven to eight yards from him.

He managed to shave after he found a razor in the backpack he was previously pictured with.

About 25 officers were able to surprise him as they surrounded him on Wednesday morning, but Cavalcante, who was wearing a Philadelphia Eagles sweatshirt, tried to escape again by crawling through underbrush with the rifle he stole from a home he broke into on Monday.

Cavalcante, 34, survived for two weeks on the run by eating watermelon he stole from a farm, drinking water from a stream, and burying his feces so police wouldn't find it

Officials then released a police dog to capture the killer. The dog bit him on the scalp and he was treated for the injury at the scene, police said. After a bloodied Cavalcante was captured, the SWAT officers in the search team paraded him like a trophy and lined up for a photo with him around 8am EST.

After the capture, he was taken to a nearby state police barracks in an armored vehicle surrounded by a dozen-vehicle convoy with lights flashing and sirens blaring as it traveled down the highway. Two police helicopters followed above.

Cavalcante was arraigned at the Avondale barracks on an escape charge, according to the office of Judge Matthew Seavey. A preliminary hearing was scheduled for September 27.

He was booked at the maximum-security SCI Phoenix prison in Montgomery County to continue serving the life sentence he received last month for killing his ex-girlfriend.

More charges are expected on Thursday regarding crimes Cavalcante committed while on the run.

On August 31, Cavalcante was seen on surveillance camera in the prison's outdoor area looking at the camera before 'crab walking' between two walls, scaling a fence and jumping over razor wire during the daring break out that took place in broad daylight.

Last week, the prison guard who did not see or report the escape was fired. Prison officials told CNN, the corrections officer was an 18-year veteran of the prison.

Cavalcante stabbed Brandao 38 times in front of her then seven and four-year-old children in April. She had brought the children to the US from Brazil for a better life. Prosecutors say he murdered her to stop her from telling police he was wanted in Brazil for a separate killing.

About 25 officers were able to surprise him as they surrounded him, but Cavalcante still tried to escape again by crawling through the tall grass with the rifle

Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan said on Wednesday she called the Brandao family as soon as the killer was found.

'They were shrieking with joy and happiness that hes incarcerated,' Ryan said. 'They have lived their own personal nightmare.'

Cavalcante is also accused of a homicide case in his native country of Brazil. He managed to flee the country in 2017 after he killed a student at a food truck stand.

TV Globo reported that the killing was over money Junior owed Calvacante.

Cavalcante's sister, who has an overstay status, was detained by ICE and entered into a deportation proceeding after she chose not to cooperate in the investigation, State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens said on Tuesday.

The killer's capture brings relief to anxious residents of southeastern Pennsylvania who endured sleepless nights as he hid in the woods, broke into suburban homes for food, changed his appearance, and fled under gunfire with a rifle pilfered from a garage.

Police updated the search perimeter after Cavalcante was spotted outside the original search area over the weekend

Residents or Pocopson Township had been told to stay alert and indoors as more than 500 agents actively searched for Cavalcante, who somehow managed to escape the original search perimeter around the prison.

In a statement, Chester county commissioners told DailyMail.com: 'The capture of Cavalcante ends the nightmare of the past two weeks, and we thank every single law enforcement official at the regional, state and federal level that was out in all weather conditions, all day and night  as well as everyone in the incident command center, our County Department of Emergency Services and County Sheriffs Office  for their immense efforts.

'Chester County Prison officials have made some immediate changes to bolster security in the prison, have brought in security contractors to make permanent changes to the exercise yards, and are reviewing and - where needed - changing procedures for both security measures and communication to residents who live close to the prison.'
Feature: Zambian small-scale traders leveraging opportunities China presents to thrive

Xinhua) 13:20, September 14, 2023

LUSAKA, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- In the international trade space, small-scale cross-border traders are constantly seeking opportunities to thrive, and many Zambian traders have found a fruitful destination in China.

Home to a vast manufacturing industry and competitive product offerings, China has become an attractive market for Zambian traders looking to expand their businesses, some of them told Xinhua.

For Zambian traders, the appeal of China lies in the diversity of products available and offered at affordable prices. From electronics to clothing and footwear, China's wide range of goods has found a ready market in the southern African country.

Small-scale cross-border traders, based in the Zambian capital of Lusaka, revealed that getting goods from China is not only a seamless undertaking but one that is enabling them to thrive.

Traders also observed that sourcing products from China has created a host of other opportunities for individuals and businesses in Zambia.

"The affordability of products from China allows me to sell them at competitive prices in Zambia, which means better returns," said Agness Daka, 31, a trader involved in selling footwear and clothing for all ages.

Daka, who trades at Lusaka's bustling Kamwala Market, pointed out that buying from China has allowed her to build partnerships that have helped her business.

"In the past one and a half years of consistently ordering things from China, I have been able to cultivate good relationships with my suppliers in China who are not only honest but also consistent. These relationships have become the backbone of my business," she said.

Evangel Penda, 34, another Lusaka-based cross-border trader specializing in hair extensions, revealed that her business began to thrive when she focused on getting merchandise from China.

"It was not until I switched to buying from dealers based in China that my business registered significant growth. Chinese products are good and affordable, which is very helpful for small businesses," Penda said.

Sumani Sakala, 30, an electronics seller and repairer, lauded Chinese manufacturing companies for producing a wide range of versatile electronic products.

"Products from China are functional and easy to use. The items are reasonably priced, which means I can earn more from my work," said Sakala, who is also the chief executive officer of Pradesh Enterprises, a company that sells electronic office equipment.

Precious Lungu, 24, proprietor of Meyiah's Collection, a boutique specializing in trendy outfits and accessories for younger women, highlighted the convenience of sourcing products from China and the many income opportunities that are being created for youth in Zambia.

"Buying products from China creates a number of jobs for young people who are engaged at various stages. For example, my company engages youth in piecework from time to time. The youngsters help in counting and sorting the goods as well as displaying the items on the shelves in the store," she explained.

Lungu further said buying items for resale from China has not only created opportunities for small-scale traders like herself, but has also strengthened Zambian companies involved in transportation and logistics.

"There are many small-scale traders in Zambia who buy things from China and use the services of Zambian clearing and forwarding companies. That means these companies are also benefiting," she added.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
A teenager removed by the state and kept at a Florida hospital against her will before her mother killed herself over their separation is finally getting her day in court close to five years after filing a lawsuit.

Maya Kowalski, 17, was placed into state custody for three months after doctors at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital's accused her parents of faking symptoms of her debilitating complex regional pain syndrome (CPRS).

Florida's Department of Children and Families and a state judge supported hospital staff's suspicions of 'child medical abuse' and placed Maya under DCF custody.

Maya's mother Beata, who was separated from her then 10-year-old daughter for close to three months and denied access to her due to a court order, took her own life - a tragedy that continues to haunt the Kowalski family.

The family detailed their harrowing experience in the explosive Netflix documentary Take Care of Maya that was released June 19.

The family Maya Kowalski (left), who claims she was kept at a Florida hospital against her will for months when she was just 10, are finally getting their day in court close to five years after filing a lawsuit

Maya's mom, Beata, (right) killed herself after she was diagnosed with a depressive mood and adjustment disorder upon being separated from her then 10-year-old for 87 days

On Thursday, the civil trial the family had been desperately waiting for finally started in the South County Courthouse in Venice, Florida. Its expected to take up to eight weeks.

In addition to damages, Judge Hunter Carroll ruled that the jury can consider awarding punitive damages for battery and false imprisonment - if they side with the Kowalski family.

AndersonGlenn LLP, who launched the lawsuit on behalf of the Kowalski family exclusively told DailyMail.com that the family hope to seek $55 million in compensatory and $165 million in punitive damages.

Jennifer Anderson told DailyMail.com: 'Everyone is relieved we finally get our time in court. [They have started] jury selection today.'

In a previous interview Greg Anderson who is also part of the Kowalski's legal team said: 'One of the most startling injuries which will come out at trial is the exacerbation of Maya's CRPS as a result of Johns Hopkin's malpractice in misdiagnosing CRPS as Munchausen by proxy (MSP).'

MSP is a mental illness and a form of child abuse in which the caretaker of a child, most often a mother, either makes up fake symptoms or causes real symptoms to make it look like the child is sick.

During Maya's stay at the hospital its claimed she was videotaped for 48 hours and in another occasion stripped down to her underwear and photographed with the permission of a guardian or the dependency court.

Hospital employees also refused to let Maya's parents take their daughter to another hospital before the state intervened, according to the lawsuit.

JHACH released a statement to DailyMail.com which read: 'Our priority at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital is always the safety and privacy of our patients and their families.

'Therefore, we follow strict federal privacy laws that limit the amount of information we can release regarding any particular case.

'Our first responsibility is always to the child brought to us for care. Our staff are required by law to notify Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) if they suspect abuse or neglect.

'It is DCF and a judge  not Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital  that investigates the situation and makes the ultimate decision about what course of action is in the best interest of the child.

'We are determined to prevent any chilling effect on the obligation to report suspected child abuse in order to protect the most vulnerable among us.'

Catherine Bedy, a former All Children's hospital social worker, is also named as a defendant in the case.

In Carroll's order allowing punitive damages he wrote that there were several occasions in which Bedy 'kissed, stroked or placed the child on her lap,' the Tampa Bay Times reported.

AndersonGlenn LLP, who launched the lawsuit on behalf of the Kowalski family exclusively told DailyMail.com that the family hope to seek $55 million in compensatory and $165 million in punitive damages

Maya, now 17, was placed into state custody for three months after doctors accused her parents of faking symptoms of her debilitating complex regional pain syndrome (CPRS)

Ethen Shapiro told DailyMail.com exclusively in July that the court has 'already determined' that the hospital had 'reasonable cause to suspect Maya Kowalski's mother was abusing her'

'Quite simply, Catherine Bedy repeatedly battered (Maya)' Carroll wrote, adding that the hospital's risk management office knew about her behavior, directed it and repeatedly allowed her to interact with the child.

Ethen Shapiro told DailyMail.com exclusively in July that the court has 'already determined' that the hospital had 'reasonable cause to suspect Maya Kowalski's mother was abusing her.'

In Shapiro's response he cited partial depositions and transcripts provided to DailyMail.com from the 3,000 plus court filings connected to the case.

'There are hundreds of publicly available court documents that completely contradict the Netflix narrative,' said Shapiro slamming the documentary.

The hospital's defense is expected to center on staff status as mandatory reporters required by state law to call the abuse hotline if they have 'reasonable cause' the Tampa Bay Times reported.

Shapiro previously said that the decision to shelter Maya at the hospital was not made by the hospital but the state's child welfare system.

The Kowalski family's story was launched onto the national stage after the release of the damning Netflix documentary.

The publicity has raised some concern about assembling an impartial jury with the Judge recently agreeing to the hospital's request that those chosen, who have seen the program, will have to be questioned individually so as not influence other potential jurors.

This could mean the jury selection could take up to a week or more.

The family detailed their harrowing experience in an explosive Netflix documentary that was released June 19

A second abuse report was made by Sally Smith, the former child protective medical director for Pinellas, who conducted an investigation into Maya's case. She has since retired and settled with the Kowalski family for $2.5 million

'We'd rather not have it be this way,' Nick Whitney an attorney for the family told the Tampa Bay Times.

'But it's probably helpful to eliminate one possible appellate issue.'

The documentary has also raised concern about Florida's Department of Children's role in the case.

A second abuse report was made by Sally Smith, the former child protective medical director for Pinellas, who conducted an investigation into Maya's case.

Smith had been employed by Suncoast Center, a nonprofit contracted by the Florida Department of Health. She retired in July 2022.

She and the nonprofit, who were originally named as defendants settled with the Kowalski family for $2.5 million according to The Cut.
Jeremy Clarkson's hit Amazon series Clarkson's Farm is set to be renewed for a fourth season by the streaming giant despite suggestions it would be axed following the fall out from the ex-Top gear presenter's comments on Meghan Markle last year, it was reported today.

Clarkson's show has been a ratings phenomenon for Amazon and something of a business boom for the Grand Tour star.

Since launching in 2021, the show - which also brought straight-talking Cotswold farmer Kaleb Cooper to prominence - has documented Clarkson's attempts to transform his huge 1,000-acre Diddly Squat Farm into a working business complete with a farm shop and organic beer brand.

But the show's future has been brought into doubt after Clarkson sparked a backlash with an incendiary column about the Duchess of Sussex in which he said he 'hated' the royal.

Clarkson apologised for the article, calling his language 'disgraceful'. The Sun newspaper also apologised for publishing the column and removed it online. Ipso, the press watchdog, upheld a complaint that the column was sexist towards the duchess, describing some of Clarkson's comments about her as 'pejorative and prejudicial'.

It was thought that Clarkson's Farm would end with Season 3, expected in 2024, with The Grand Tour also ending after four more special episodes, the last of which is expected to be in late 2024.

However, Deadline reports that the streamer is now 'preparing to renew the show', and although 'a deal is not finalised' the discussions around a comeback 'have been positive'. Amazon declined to comment when approached by MailOnline about the report.

Clarkson's Farm is reportedly returning for a fourth series which will film in 2024

It follows controversial comments Jeremy Clarkson made about Meghan Markle (right) which Prince Harry (left) labelled 'horrific and cruel'

The former Top Gear host has since apologised for comments made in the Sun newspaper

In a lengthy statement on his verified Instagram account, The Grand Tour presenter said he emailed the couple on Christmas Day to say his language in the column had been 'disgraceful' and he was 'profoundly sorry'

Clarkson said he emailed the Duke and Duchess of Sussex on Christmas Day to apologise over his column in The Sun newspaper in which he said he 'hated' Meghan.

In a lengthy statement on his verified Instagram account, The Grand Tour presenter earlier said he emailed the couple on Christmas Day to say his language in the column had been 'disgraceful' and he was 'profoundly sorry'.

He said: 'One of the strange things I've noticed in recent times is that whenever an MP or a well-known person is asked to apologise for something, no matter how heartfelt or profound that apology may be, it's never enough for the people who called for it in the first place.

'So I'm going to try and buck the trend this morning with an apology for the things I said in a Sun column recently about Meghan Markle. I really am sorry. All the way from the balls of my feet to the follicles on my head. This is me putting my hands up. It's a mea culpa with bells on.

'Usually, I read what I've written to someone else before filing, but I was home alone on that fateful day, and in a hurry. So when I'd finished, I just pressed send. And then, when the column appeared the next day, the landmine exploded.'

Clarkson described the moment he picked up a copy of The Sun to 'see what all the fuss was about.'

Jeremy Clarkson says he emailed Duke and Duchess of Sussex on Christmas Day apologising

Since launching in 2021, the show has documented the pair's attempts to work Clarkson's huge 1,000-acre Cotswalds farm

The show has helped the presenter turn the Diddly Squat Farm shop in Chipping Norton into a working business

He continued: 'We've all been there, I guess. In that precise moment when we suddenly realise we've completely messed up. You are sweaty and cold at the same time. And your head pounds. And you feel sick. I couldn't believe what I was reading. Had I really said that? It was horrible.

'I knew what had happened straight away. I'd been thinking of a scene in Games of Thrones, but I'd forgotten to mention this. So it looked like I was actually calling for revolting violence to rain down on Meghan's head.

'I was very angry with myself because in all those controversial days on Top Gear, when I was accused of all sorts of things, it was very rarely sexism. I was mortified and so was everyone else. My phone went mad. Very close friends were furious. Even my own daughter took to Instagram to denounce me.'

Clarkson's statement went on to say ITV and Amazon, which airs Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? and The Grand Tour respectively, were 'incandescent'.

He said: 'The Sun quickly apologised and I tried to explain myself. But still, there were calls for me to be sacked and charged with a hate crime.

'More than 60 MPs demanded action to be taken. ITV, who make Who Wants to be a Millionaire?, and Amazon, who make the farm show and the Grand Tour, were incandescent.

'I therefore wrote to everyone who works with me saying how sorry I was and then on Christmas morning, I emailed Harry and Meghan in California to apologise to them too.

'I said I was baffled by what they had been saying on TV but that the language I'd used in my column was disgraceful and that I was profoundly sorry.'

Clarkson said he will 'try' to be 'interesting and vigilant' at the same time in future columns.
A Delta baggage handler accused of orchestrating a $300,000 theft is on trial in New York City this week along with his alleged accomplice.

Quincy Thorpe and Emmanuel Auguo Okon are on trial in Brooklyn Federal Court for the theft of the cash, that was stolen in September 2019.

Bags filled with $300,000 in cash were due to fly from JFK to Miami

The money bags filled with nearly $300,000 in cash that a Delta baggage handler is alleged to have smuggled out of JFK Airport have been pictured for the first time, as he and his accomplice stand trial in NYC.

Delta ground services worker Quincy Thorpe and his alleged accomplice Emmanuel Auquo Okon are currently on trial in Brooklyn Federal Court for the theft of the Miami-bound money, which was stolen in September 2019.

During their trial on Wednesday, prosecutor John Vagelatos said the two left behind evidence pinning the crime on themselves.

According to the New York Post, he said: 'The money was gone but the defendants had made a tremendous mistake. They had left behind hard evidence of the crime.'

Vagelatos described Thorpe, of Brooklyn, as the 'inside man' in the ploy, since he worked for the airport and was responsible for loading bags of cash onto the flight.

The $258,200, pictured here, disappeared as the bags scanned by Thorpe were being loaded onto the aircraft in New York which was due to land in Miami

Quincy Thorpe, left, and Emmanuel Okon, right, are charged with conspiracy to steal cargo and cargo theft in connection with the theft of a bag containing approximately $258,205 in currency

The $258,200 - plus more in foreign currency - disappeared as the bags scanned by Thorpe were being loaded onto the aircraft in New York which was due to land in Miami.

Thorpe was allegedly caught on camera taking one of the bags from an armored car and loading it into a white van instead of on the flight.

Prosecutors allege that Thorpe, who had gone home sick around the time of the apparent theft, and another person then drove the van to meet Okon on the public side of the airport, and hand over the money.

The outlet reported that the FBI later found Okon's car days after the theft, and found receipts from the armored car company and Delta cargo tags for the shipment.

Thorpe was later tracked down and arrested days after, with Okon later nabbed following his friends arrest.

Outside of court on Wednesday, his lawyer Lonnie Hart Jr. claimed his client had been used as a patsy by the airline and security company Loomis which had been tasked with protecting the cash.

According to the Post, Hart told the court in his opening statement: 'Someone has to pay for it and the convenient person in this case is my client, Quincy Thorpe, because he was, in fact, in charge of loading that particular flight.'

Delta Airlines Boeing 777 passenger jets are serviced at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York

The trial, taking place at Brooklyn Federal Court, is expected to run for the remainder of the week

He added: 'Hes a scapegoat for someone elses incompetence.'

Hart also claimed that the actual man responsible, a Jeremy Hollingsworth, drove the white van and was the actual perpetrator.

Hollingsworth is expected to take the stand for the government later in the trial, which is expected to run for the remainder of the week.

On Wednesday, several Delta and Loomis employees took the stand, describing how the bags of cash were handled before Thorpe had custody of them and after

According to the New York Daily News, Okons lawyer, Douglas Rankin, said: 'Money got stolen.

'Whether it was Miami, whether it was New York, money got stolen. A quarter of a million dollars, somebody gets arrested and prosecuted, and its not always the right somebody.

'It is undisputed that there is not a video of [Thorpe] stealing the money. The most surveilled airport in the world, no video.'

Thorpe and Okon face charges of conspiracy to steal cargo and cargo theft, and the possibility of 10 years behind bars, according to the outlet.

It's unclear who the security company was working for, and who the rightful owner of the cash is.
Elon Musk will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in California on Monday to discuss anti-Semitism on Twitter, according to the Washington Post.

Their meeting comes amid escalating tensions between the Twitter tsar and the Anti-Defamation League, which has accused him and the platform of being anti-Semitic.

Netanyahu has previously come to Musk's defense after he was accused of repeating discriminatory tropes about Jewish financier George Soros, despite an outcry in Israel.

The Israeli minister responsible for fighting anti-Semitism also smoothed things over by making a point of saying Musk's comments were not anti-Semitic.

The meeting between Musk and Netanyahu will take place in the heart of Silicon Valley next week. It was The Washington Post.

Elon Musk (pictured) will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in California on Monday to discuss anti-Semitism on Twitter , according to the Washington Post

Netanyahu (pictured) has previously come to Musk's defense after he was accused of repeating discriminatory tropes about Jewish financier George Soros, despite an outcry in Israel

Other tech leaders have also been invited to the meeting, according to the Post.

Sources in Netanyahu's office said he plans 'to hold a series of meetings with leading figures in the artificial intelligence world', according to the Times of Israel.

It comes while Netanyahu is embroiled in his own domestic controversy over his move to radically revamp the country's judicial system, which opponents say will push the country toward authoritarian rule.

Netanyahu wants to curtail the authority of the Supreme Court and give politicians greater powers over the selection of judges.

One vocal Israeli opponent, Offir Gutelzon, who is also a Silicon Valley tech businessman, told the Washington Post he plans to spearhead a rally in the vicinity of the Musk meeting.

'It's deeply disturbing that Benjamin Netanyahu, leader of the world's only Jewish state, is flying across America to seek the counsel and support from a notorious enabler of anti-Jewish hate speech,' he told the paper.

Thousands of protesters poured onto the streets of Tel Aviv in June to stand against Netanyahu and his nationalist coalition government's judicial overhaul

Their meeting also comes while Netanyahu is embroiled in his own domestic controversy over his move to radically revamp the country's judicial system, which opponents say will push the country toward authoritarian rule

The SpaceX founder's anti-Semitism woes began when he compared Soros, 92, to X-Men supervillain Magneto - a character who manipulates the world and thinks mutants should be in charge rather than humans

Netanyahu unveiled the plan early this year, saying the country's unelected judges hold too much power over parliament.

He is backed by an alliance of ultranationalist and religious parties, each motivated by different grievances against the legal system.

The White House has criticized the plans, while President Joe Biden has shunned Netanyahu's attempts to score an Oval Office meeting in recent months.

Meanwhile, the SpaceX founder's anti-Semitism woes began when he compared Soros, 92, to X-Men supervillain Magneto - a character who manipulates the world and thinks mutants should be in charge rather than humans.

He made the bizarre comment in May in what seemed to be retaliation against Soros' investment fund dumping all of their Tesla stock.

Soros, a Hungarian-born billionaire, heads the Open Society Foundation and is a Holocaust survivor.

Their meeting comes amid escalating tensions between the Twitter tsar (pictured second left) and the Anti-Defamation League, which has accused him and the platform of being anti-Semitic

The SpaceX founder's anti-Semitism woes began when he compared Soros (pictured) to X-Men supervillain Magneto - a character who manipulates the world and thinks mutants should be in charge rather than humans

The Tesla CEO compared Soros, 92, to Jewish X-Men supervillain Magneto on Twitter

Musk's comment was seen by some as peddling anti-Semitic tropes about Jewish people pulling strings and controlling the world.

According to the Anti-Defamation League, an organization which aims to 'protect democracy and fight bias', Twitter - rebranded as X following Musk's controversial takeover - also has a problem with pushing anti-Semitic content.

Musk branded their accusation as an attempt to 'kill' X, and he launched a $22 billion defamation lawsuit against the group, claiming it is responsible for Twitter's rapidly falling profits.

In May, it was reported that the app's value had fallen to one-third of what it was when Musk purchased it in October - from $45 billion to $15 billion in six months.
A 40-year-old Virginia woman has been arrested for leaving an 11-month-old child and a dog in a hot car, resulting in their death.

Kristen Danielle Graham, 40, has been charged with one felony count of child neglect and one misdemeanor count of animal cruelty by the York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office.

Graham is currently being held at the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail. She was given responsibility of the child, named Myrical Wicker by her 17-year-old mother for two days. The dog belonged to Graham.

Sheriff Ron Montgomery told Newsweek that officials are waiting for the baby's autopsy results to decide if charges will be upgraded to homicide.

Kristen Danielle Graham, 40, has been accused of leaving an 11-month-old child and a dog in a hot car which resulted in their death

Myrical Wicker's 17-year-old mother left her with Graham to babysit for two days. The dog belonged to Graham

The Sheriff's office released a statement explaining what happened. Officials say Graham received a phone call from her friend at around 1am asking her to bring cigarettes on September 12. Her friend couldn't buy them herself because she was caring for an elderly person in Newport News at that time.

Graham put the child and dog in the back of the car, went to a 7-Eleven to get the cigarettes and spent some 'considerable' time at her friend's place.

She then drove back to York County at 8am and left the baby and dog in the car with the windows rolled up. At around 2.30pm, Graham 'woke up' when she received a phone call and went out to check on the dog and baby.

Both the baby and dog were dead by that point.

Sheriff Ron Montgomery said that officials are waiting for the baby's autopsy results to decide if charges will be upgraded to homicide.

Graham left the baby and dog in the car with the windows rolled up at 8am. At around 2.30pm, she 'woke up' and went out to check on the dog and baby. Both were dead by then

Court documents show 80-year-old Paul Kudlaty brought the deceased infant to Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital in a trash bag. He is not facing charges.

The sheriff added that Graham has given conflicting accounts of why the child and dog were left in the vehicle.

He said that the office was investigating if she deliberately went into the house and left them both in the car.

Sheriff Montgomery further said in his statement: 'These are not typical situations that we deal with in York County, and when you do come across the death of a child, it affects everyone  the investigators, the law enforcement people there, the EMS people that have to respond to these types of things.

'And I can tell you that the mood of the agency today when we had a briefing on it this morning is somewhat shock and disbelief, even though were professionals and we have to do everything we possibly can do to do a thorough, professional investigation.'

He said that investigators are trying to figure out how hot the inside of the vehicle would have been before the two dead bodies were discovered.

The sheriff mentioned that Graham would often babysit the child often and care for her 'friend of a friend's baby'.

Police officials have not revealed the name of the 17-year-old mother and information about the dog.
Clive Myrie has said he has 'unbridled pity' for the 'sad losers' who racially abuse him on social media.

The 59-year-old BBC presenter said the abuse he receives via tweets and emails used to 'wind him up'.

Now the Mastermind host - who is of Jamaican heritage - has said he feels sorry for his racist trolls.

The newsreader recently revealed the racist abuse suffered by his family members while he was growing up - including a nurse aunt who was told by a patient to 'take your dirty black hands off me'.

He said there is 'always going to be a loon out there' and you cannot legislate for the 'individual', but British society 'is on its way to trying to deal with structural disadvantages and inbuilt racism'.

Clive Myrie, 59, (pictured on Lorraine this morning) said he has 'unbridled pity' for the 'sad losers' who racially abuse him on social media

The newsreader recently revealed the racist abuse suffered by his family members while he was growing up. Pictured: Myrie (left) in 1969 with his mother, Leanne, and one of his brothers

Mr Myrie told the Off Air podcast: 'I might have achieved a few things in life but that does not stop people from using the N-word in correspondence, in emails, in tweets. It doesn't stop it at all.

'You can't legislate for individuals. What you can do is get rid of the structural disadvantages and inbuilt racism that exists. As a society, Britain is on its way to trying to deal with a lot of that.

'But individuals - there's always going to be a loon out there. You can't legislate for someone feeling a certain way about another individual.

'Those people used to wind me up. Now I just have unbridled pity, because they're just sad losers.'

Speaking on Lorraine today, Myrie told of how he came to writing his his new book Everything is Everything: A Memoir of Love, Hate & Hope, saying: 'I decided last year during the Ukrainian war. I was chatting to one of the cameraman whose wife is Russian, whose children speak Russian, and who is a fluent Russian speaker himself although he is a Brit.

'I wanted to understand the mindset of the Russians in their seeming willingness to bomb schools, bomb hospitals, bomb play parks and kill people.

'He said ''what you've got to remember is for a lot of Russian people the Ukrainian's are sub-human. They don't see them as fellow human beings - they see them as lesser people''.

The Mastermind host said there is 'always going to be a loon out there' and you cannot legislate for the 'individual'

Myrie (pictured today) said British society 'is on its way to trying to deal with structural disadvantages and inbuilt racism'

The BBC presenter - who is of Jamaican heritage - said he feels sorry for his racist trolls

'I thought a lot of my reporting over the years has involved that kind of dynamic - people looking down on others - not seeing them as equal to themselves.'

Myrie explained: 'I thought it would be interesting to put all that together and look at how all that has crossed into my own life - being a person of colour - and my own experiences.

'As well as all that stuff which is quite powerful, and moving at times, and depressing, there's a lot of hope in there as well.'

Myrie's comments come just a few weeks after he said he was 'ashamed' of Britain after watching members of his family become victims of the Windrush scandal.

The journalist, 59, revealed that his two half-brothers, six to seven years his senior, faced deportation despite having lived in Britain for decades  and despite their parents arriving from Jamaica as British citizens, like all those from the Windrush generation.

Myrie's brother Lionel is still waiting for a British passport and compensation while his brother Peter died of prostate cancer before getting either.

In his new memoir, Everything Is Everything, the Mastermind host says the incident made him 'angry and also ashamed of my own country'.

On the Government's delays in paying compensation, he told The Times: 'We're all agreed that what has happened is a complete and utter disgrace  the question is, what do you do about it?

'I'm still hoping society understands what happened and tries to rectify it.'

He said people may be shocked to hear of his Windrush connection, 'because people think they know me.

'But it could have happened to anyone with relations who came here under the Nationality Act.'
Hurricane Lee is barreling towards Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard, where tropical storm warnings have been issued and there are fears of life-threatening storm surges as the 'dangerous cyclone' approaches.

The storm, a Category 1 Hurricane, will whip coastal Massachusetts with winds of up to 40mph, lashing Provincetown and even causing tornados in some parts of New England.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has instructed the National Guard to deploy to parts of coastal Long Island, and residents in beach towns.

New England is bracing for flash floods and tornados as Hurricane Lee continues to grow strong, as forecasters predict 'large, dangerous cyclone' storms with over 10 inches of rainfall and possible 'life-threatening' flooding.

The storm, a Category 1 Hurricane, will whip coastal Massachusetts with winds of up to 40mph, lashing Provincetown and even causing tornados in some parts of New England

Hurricane Lee is on track to smash coastal Massachusetts this weekend with winds of up to 40mph

Steve Cook, of Provincetown, fills one of three long sleeves he brought to the town's highway garage where residents were allowed to fill sandbags ahead of Hurricane Lee. Provincetown DPW's had sandbags at their Highway Garage for residents to fill to help with flooding issues with the predicted stormy weather from Hurricane Lee

Jody Scheske, of Provincetown, fills sandbags at the Highway Garage Thursday morning. Provincetown DPW's had sandbags at their Highway Garage for residents to fill to help with flooding issues with the predicted stormy weather from Hurricane Lee

Hurricane Lee is expected to bring storms that will wallop New England Friday night and Saturday, after the area experienced days of extreme weather that produced torrential rain, flooding, and sinkholes.

The National Hurricane Center announced a hurricane watch that stretches from Stonington, Maine to the US-Canadian border, Wednesday night.

Watch Hill, Rhode Island, to Stonington, Maine - including Block Island, Cape Cod Bay, Marthas Vineyard and Nantucket - are under a tropical storm watch.

The hurricane may also unleash violent storms on the region that saw up to 10 inches of rainfall in just six hours on Wednesday, that caused major damage including uprooting trees and downing power lines in Rhode Island and Connecticut.

Late on Sunday, the storm was centered about 285 miles north of the northern Leeward Islands. Its maximum sustained winds were clocked at 120 mph and it was moving northwest at 8 mph.

Alarming footage of the storm shows roof damaged and the press box at the high school stadium tipped into the bleachers.

Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee announced that the state's emergency operations center was activated and would be monitoring the storm over the next few days.

'The best thing you can do right now: Stay tuned for frequent updates,' McKee said.

Hurricane Lee's impact is expected to extend outside forecast path. The National Hurricane Center announced a hurricane watch that stretches from Stonington, Maine to the US-Canadian border

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey also issued a state of emergency late Tuesday, following the 'catastrophic flash flooding and property damage' in two counties and other communities.

The states emergency management agency is watching the weather and is prepared to offer assistance, she said.

The state is monitoring the conditions of dams, she said, and she urged residents to take flood warnings seriously and to stay off the roads when ordered.

As of Wednesday, the storm has triggered a tropical storm watch in Bermuda, and is now less than 500 miles from the island nation, bringing with it winds of 155 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The storm continues to grow as it moves out of the Caribbean, with its Category 3 winds being felt up to 125 miles from its center and Tropical Storm winds being felt up to 240 miles away, that's expected to increase to 300 miles by the weekend.

Satellite image provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows Hurricane Lee in the Atlantic Ocean. The hurricane is predicted to wallop New England this week

The flooding caused several sinkholes in Leominster, Massachusetts, including one at a dealership where several cars were swallowed up.

In Providence, Rhode Island, downpours flooded a parking lot and parts of a shopping mall. Firefighters used inflatable boats to rescue more than two dozen people stranded in cars.

In Danbury, Connecticut, officials said they had to rescue several people from vehicles stuck in floodwaters.

The hurricane is traveling north and could make landfall in Nova Scotia, Canada, possibly as a tropical storm, forecasters said.

As of now, Hurricane Lee's path is not projected to make landfall in the New York area, but the storm may cause beach erosion to our shoreline.

The Town of Southampton beaches were surveilled on Tuesday in preparation for the incoming storm.

In preparation, New York Governor Kathy Hochul is deploying the National Guard to the eastern end of Long Island in preparation for flooding.

'It's too early to predict what this potentially dangerous weather system will do. Out of an abundance of caution, I have deployed the National Guard and directed state agencies to prepare emergency response assets and be ready to respond to local requests for assistance,' the Democratic leader said in a statement.

The storm has already left is mark in the Caribbean in the Bahamas, US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, as well as most of the US East Coast, generating dangerous surf, heavy rainfall and rip currents.

New England is bracing for flash floods and tornados as forecasters say storm will turn into 'large, dangerous cyclone' this week as the region deals with the impact of days of wild weather that produced torrential rain, flooding, sinkholes and a likely tornado

Lee is the 12th named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30 and peaked on Sunday

The National Hurricane Center said dangerous surf and rip currents were expected to hit most of the U.S. East Coast starting on Sunday, but that the hurricane's impact beyond that was still unclear

Severe flood warnings remain in effect across central Massachusetts in what officials said could be life-threatening - although there have not been reports of any deaths in the region as a result of the severe weather.

Over the past two weeks, Massachusetts was hit with catastrophic flooding after heavy rainfall, reaching over 11 inches and 300 percent above average levels, according to weather service data.

Parts of lower Leominster - around 50 miles from Boston - were evacuated Tuesday as the flooding caused issues with the Barrett Park Dam.

The mayor of the town, Dean Mazzarella, said over 11 inches of rainfall deluged the area, and shocking footage showed deep floodwaters submerging cars and streaming down the streets at high currents.

'Everything's just one big lake,' Mazzarella said on Monday. 'Find a high spot somewhere. Find a high spot and stay there until this is over.'

'The ground is saturated. It can't take in anymore,' Mazzarella said at a news conference Wednesday.

The storm caused severe damage, washing out roads, flooding homes and businesses, and forcing evacuations throughout the night via hovercrafts and boats.

Mazarella said up to 300 people were evacuated by Tuesday morning in the city, which has not seen such widespread damage since a 1936 hurricane. Most buildings downtown flooded and some collapsed.

He said early estimates on city infrastructure restoration projects could be anywhere from $25 million to $40 million.

Massachusetts's Governor Maura Healey also issued emergency boat rescue and response teams to the city.

'My heart goes out to residents and public safety officials in Leominster and other communities experiencing catastrophic flooding tonight,' she posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Similarly dangerous scenes were seen in footage from Cumberland, Rhode Island, as residents were forced from their homes amid torrential waist-high floodwaters.

One person who shared footage of the flash flooding said they 'lived here for 20 years and it's never flooded this bad.'

In another image shared to social media, a huge sinkhole had opened up in the town of 40,000 that one woman said she was lucky not to drift into due to the high currents.
Google announced another round of layoffs Wednesday, cutting staff members from its global recruiting division.

The latest move in the 'tech wreck' comes nine months after the company cut 12,000 jobs, about six percent of its workforce, back in January.

'We continue to invest in top engineering and technical talent while also meaningfully slowing the pace of our overall hiring,' Google spokesperson Courtenay Mencini said in a statement. 'To ensure we operate efficiently, we've made the hard decision to reduce the size of our recruiting team.'

In a July earnings call, Google CEO Sundar Pichai said, 'We continue to slow our expense growth and pace of hiring and ensure our teams are aligned to our highest priorities.' While announcing continued investments in artificial intelligence.

Google and its parent company Alphabet have taken extensive measures this year to cut costs, including cutting back on staplers and laptop replacements for employees.

Google sign hangs over the company's new building in New York City

Justice Department officials argue Google abused its power to make its engine the first thing phone users see

Chief finance officer Ruth Porat sent a company-wide email in April announcing cost cutting measures in employee services. She shared the company would be cutting back on food, fitness, massage, and transportation programs.

Meanwhile Pichai has been one of the highest paid CEOs in America, making $226 million last year, infuriating staffers for his refusal to take a pay cut to save jobs.

Those affected by this round of layoffs took the social media shortly after the announcement.

One user on LinkedIn described the experience writing, 'At 10 a.m. today, all of Google Staffing got an email that there would be a meeting at Noon - it said there was going to be hard news and we should work from home.'

'I figured nothing good would come of the meeting, but tried to stay positive as those minutes until the meeting went on - feeling like hours,' she added. 'I had hoped that I would somehow, for some reason remain safe. Sadly, that did not happen today.'

Another LinkedIn user wrote, 'I was unfortunately impacted by today's mass layoffs at Google. Brighter days are ahead, but this one hurts.'

The tech industry has faced a major reckoning this year, seeing major white-collar job losses dubbed the 'richcession.'

In a September 5 Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filing Roku shared plans to cut roughly 10 percent of its workforce.

An August SEC filing revealed that T-Mobile plans to reduce the size of its workforce by approximately seven percent, an estimated 5,000 jobs.

Meta has faced several rounds of layoffs. In May they shared up to 6,000 employees in the business departments could be cut, one month after they cut 4,000 roles from its tech department.

In March, Amazon shared plans to remove 9,000 jobs adding to the 18,000 it said it would lay off in January.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai (left) and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg (right) attend an AI insight forum on Capitol Hill

Cost-cutting measures reduced employee services for Google staff

Many of these companies blame slowed down demand as the pandemic eased for the need for cuts.

While Google announced its most recent layoffs, the company headed to court in Washington, DC on Tuesday.

The Justice Department and a group of states are accusing the company of antitrust violations in the first big antitrust trial of the internet age.
Virginia police officers tasered a suspect and accidentally ran him over after he tried to escape arrest while on horseback.

Steve Rucker refused to stop for an outstanding warrant for an alleged protective order violation, which was eventually dropped, and led the police on a chase through Lynchburg on March 20, 2021.

Shocking dashcam footage shows Rucker being slowly pursued by authorities before he is tasered in the back by an officer.

He was then run over after falling off the horse and suffered a lacerated liver with hemorrhaging, a pulmonary contusion, multiple rib fractures, a concussion and other injuries.

Rucker filed a federal lawsuit in the US District Court for the Western District of Virginia in April against Lynchburg police officers Zachary Miller and Michael Johnson seeking $5million in damages.

Virginia police officers tasered Steve Rucker and accidentally ran him over after he tried to escape arrest while on horseback through Lynchburg on March 20, 2021

Footage shows Rucker being pursued by authorities before he is tasered in the back by an officer. He was then run over after falling off the horse and suffered a lacerated liver with hemorrhaging, a pulmonary contusion, multiple rib fractures, a concussion and other injuries

Video shows an officer pursing Rucker, who is horseback, in a patrol car with the sirens on down a suburban street.

Miller's bodycam shows him waiting as the chase continues and is heard telling someone on his radio that Rucker is 'out in front' before another cop tells him to safely use his taser if he can avoid hitting the horse.

He gets out of his car and tasers Rucker and radios that it was 'successful' but that the suspect was not stopping.

The horse then ran at around 15 miles per hour before Rucker fell off 'two blocks later'.

Footage shows him trying to get back up but he quickly sits up and lies on the street.

Another police cruiser then arrives at the intersection and runs Rucker over as it turns left.

Someone is heard screaming in the video before the horse runs away out of view. Rucker is seen lying motionless on the ground before the video cuts out.

Rucker has accused the officers of excessive force and being grossly negligent. His lawsuit alleges Miller committed battery and violated his constitutional rights by tasing him. He is seeking $5.35 million in damages.

It is unclear if the cops faced any kind of disciplinary action. A federal judge has denied officer Miller's attempt to dismiss Rucker's lawsuit.

In a court filing responding to the lawsuit, Johnson admitted he got out of his car thinking he put it in park but it was still moving so he got back in to avoid hitting another officer who was at the scene.

The officer said he turned sharply but hit a retaining wall and was 'put' in Ruckers direction.

Rucker filed a federal lawsuit in the US District Court for the Western District of Virginia in April against Lynchburg officers Zachary Miller and Michael Johnson seeking $5million in damages

It is unclear if the cops faced any kind of disciplinary action. A federal judge has denied officer Miller's attempt to dismiss Rucker's lawsuit

Officer Johnson claimed he 'tried as hard as he could to maneuver his vehicle to avoid Rucker but the vehicle ended up hitting him'

He claimed he 'tried as hard as he could to maneuver his vehicle to avoid Rucker but the vehicle ended up hitting him'.

But Rucker alleged Johnson hit the accelerator when he got back into the car which the officer has denied.

Rucker is said to have travelled at 'between ten and twenty-five miles per hour' down a dozen streets during the chase.

Jim Guynn, the attorney for officers Miller and Johnson, told 8News: 'Im not going to comment on the specific allegations other than to say we believe when the court has all of the facts it will find that the officers acted reasonably when confronted with an apparently intoxicated person riding a horse in downtown Lynchburg.'

US District Judge Norman K. Moon rejected Miller's motion to dismiss the lawsuit in August which argued Rucker's claims were insufficient.

Miller claimed he is protected from liability under qualified immunity, which is used to guard local officials and officers from civil lawsuits if their conduct doesnt violate someones rights that a 'reasonable official' would have known.

But the judge denied this and said Rucker 'sufficiently alleges a violation of a clearly established constitutional right'.

Rucker's attorney Mark D. Dix, who runs Dix Law Firm, said in a statement: 'Even a cursory review of the allegations compels the conclusion that Officer Millers decision to fire a taser at an individual riding horsebackone who was not wanted for any crime, was not suspected of any crime, but merely needed to be served with court papersconstituted excessive force.

'This is precisely the kind of heavy-handed, unconstitutional law enforcement tactics that needs to stop, and we look forward to our day in court.'

The case has moved on to the discovery phase and a trial date has been set for April 2024.

DailyMail.com has contacted Lynchburg Police for comment.
Furious well-heeled New Yorkers erupted as they were blocked from entering a heliport in New York City by angry Extinction Rebellion demonstrators.

The noisy blockage at the VIP Heliport lasted an hour and a half - and six people were arrested for causing the disruption in Chelsea on Wednesday.

Brazen protesters held banners and posters reading 'Luxury Emissions Destroy Futures' and 'Life or Death' while standing strong along the entrance on West 30th Street and the West Side Highway.

The eco warriors also held strollers and children's toys while on the picket line - which members of Extinction Rebellion said 'symbolized what is at stake, the livelihoods of our children and our families.'

Swathes of flyers arriving at the pad were greeted by the protest. Families with small children attempted to get through the human wall to make their helicopter flights.

Irate helicopter and ground staff were seen frantically trying to organize how their luxury clients would get on and off the helicopter pad during the disruption.

The eco warriors also held strollers and children's toys while on the picket line - which members of Extinction Rebellion said 'symbolized what is at stake, the livelihoods of our children and our families'

Irate helicopter and ground staff were seen frantically trying to organize how their clients would get on and off the helicopter pad during the disruption

As one SUV attempted to drive up to pick a customer up, it was blocked by the XR protesters who briefly got into a spat with an angry security guard working on site.

One woman, wearing Louboutin heels, bypassed the crowd with her luggage as another businessman in a suit holding a Louis Vuitton bag hurried towards the entrance.

Helicopters kept landing at the VIP pad - which is run by Blade.

The helicopter service claims it can fly choppers from Manhattan to JFK and Newark airports within five minutes - as well as flying paying customers to the Hamptons and parts of New England.

One seat on a Blade helicopter flying from the Helipad to JFK Airport costs $195.

Clips showed NYPD officers arresting and handcuffing demonstrators while their comrades continued to shout and chant in the background.

'Luxury emissions destroy our future,' the group chanted while parading by the entrance to the Manhattan helipad.

They continued in unison: 'Helicopters, private planes, your emissions are insane.'

Helicopters kept landing at the VIP pad on West 30th Street - which is run by Blade

'Luxury emissions destroy our future,' the group chanted while parading by the entrance to the helipad in Manhattan

One woman, wearing Louboutin heels, bypassed the crowd with her luggage as another businessman in a suit and a briefcase quickly hurried towards the entrance

Brazen protesters held banners and posters reading 'destroy futures' and 'life or death,' while standing strong along the entrance on West 30th Street

The helicopter service claims it can fly choppers from Manhattan to JFK and Newark airports within five minutes - as well as flying paying customers to the Hamptons and parts of New England

The noisy blockage at the VIP Heliport lasted an hour, and a half and six people were arrested for causing the disruption in Chelsea on Wednesday

Blade said that it 'continues to purchase offsets to counteract the carbon emissions generated by our urban air mobility services to remain carbon neutral as a company.'

XR said in a statement after the protest: 'At 3:15 pm on Wednesday, September 13th, activists from Extinction Rebellion disrupted private helicopter takeoffs at JRA West 30th Street Heliport Airport, disrupting flights the same way severe storms would.

'Protestors warned that there are 'no luxury emissions on a dead planet', and demanded an end to fossil fuels.

'The group, with baby strollers and soft toys, blocked the main entrance using lock-ons, and held banners with the words 'LUXURY EMISSIONS DESTROY FUTURES'.

'The main entrance was blocked for 90 minutes and 6 people were arrested.'

They added: 'Blade Air Mobility, Inc the company that operates many of the flights out of Manhattan heliports, has committed (in word only) to purchasing electric helicopters to replace their current fossil fuel powered fleet.

'This crisis is life-threatening, and it's time we approach it as such.

As one SUV attempted to drive up to pick a customer up, it was blocked by the XR protesters who briefly got into a spat with an angry security guard working on site

The demonstrators were holding up posters

A spat broke out with a security guard at the scene

Laura Robertson, an Extinction Rebellion activist, said: 'Why are we doing this? Because nothing else has worked'

'New York weather is rapidly approaching a point where helicopters won't be able to safely fly -- electric or not.'

Laura Robertson, an Extinction Rebellion activist, said: 'Why are we doing this? Because nothing else has worked. There have been twenty-seven COP conferences.

'There is no time left, ecologically, for the super rich to continue pumping out emissions. There is no time left for outsized carbon footprints.'

'Helicopters are a pestilence to New Yorkers and a rotten pinnacle of an economic system that places pleasure over planetary survival. We must stop them,' added Charles Komanoff, bicycle activist and transportation analyst.

Emma Jacobs, an Extinction Rebellion spokesperson said: 'A livable future for our children is being jeopardized by luxury carbon emissions.

'The strollers and the toys symbolize what is at stake  the livelihoods of our children and our families.

'It's contributing to the breakdown of food systems, to drought and famine, to 1 billion climate refugees by 2050.

'Is an extravagant lifestyle worth risking the loss of all life on Earth?'
The trans influencer now wants to meet Meghan Markle and Jill Biden

She admits that she was ' concerned with her well-being' in the aftermath

Trans-influencer Dylan Mulvaney says she wants to meet Meghan Markle while admitting she feels 'guilty' over the Bud Light backlash that cost the beer its American title and $400million in sales.

Mulvaney, 26, partnered with the beer brand in April for their March Madness NCAA campaign and was sent a personalized can as part of the promotion.

The backlash caused Bud Light's parent company, Anheuser-Busch, to lose $400million in sales  as their total US revenue dropped 10.5 percent compared to the year before.

Mulvaney has now opened up on her next move and the controversial deal, after posting a TikTok where she said she felt 'scared to leave her house'.

Speaking to The Cut, the influencer said: 'I think this has affected a lot more lives than obviously just mine. I always want to add value in any partnership that I do.

The controversial influencer admitted that the deal and backlash affected 'a lot more lives' than just hers

Mulvaney, 26, partnered with the beer brand in April for their March Madness NCAA campaign and was sent a personalized can as part of the promotion

'Part of me was concerned with my well-being, how to keep myself safe, how to keep myself out of a courtroom, how to keep myself successful.

'And part of me was concerned with being a good person: How do I show up for the trans community right now in a way that I feel like I really can?'

She admitted that her TikTok addressing the controversy, which saw major stars call out the company and demand a boycott, had taken three months for her to create.

Despite the retaliation, Mulvaney says that it would be 'epic' for her to do a 'beer commercial for a Super Bowl' in ten years' time.

The performer also has a vision board of women that she would like to meet this year, including Markle, Jill Biden and Anna Wintour.

She describes herself as a 'sacrificial lamb in the election landscape', adding that the entire fiasco was a 'wake-up call' and she is 'a more realistic person' now.

In the interview, she doubled down on her claim that she was never contacted by Anheuser-Busch before or after the collaboration. The company has never officially commented on the partnership.

The deal was brokered by influencer-marketing agency Captiv8, on behalf of Bud Light, but Anheuser-Busch forced two of their top executives to take a 'leave of absence' following the major marketing blunder.

She admitted that her TikTok addressing the controversy, which saw major stars call out the company and demand a boycott, had taken three months for her to create

The backlash caused Bud Light's parent company, Anheuser-Busch , to lose $400million in sales  as their total US revenue dropped 10.5 percent compared to the year before.

The performer also has a vision board of women that she would like to meet this year, including Meghan Markle, Jill Biden and Anna Wintour

Despite the retaliation, Mulvaney says that it would be 'epic' for her to do a 'beer commercial for a Super Bowl' in ten years' time

There were claims that both executives had finally been fired over the fiasco - something which the company deny.

VP of marketing Alissa Heinerscheid, 39, and VP for Mainstream Brands Daniel Blake, 34, both took a voluntary leave of absence following the backlash.

The can was gifted to Mulvaney to celebrate 365 days of 'being a girl,' the phrase she uses to describe her transition from male to female.

But it triggered outrage among drinkers, who accused Bud Light of trying to force progressive beliefs on them and their favorite brand.

Mulvaney has lashed out at Bud Light, who she has not named in any responses to the backlash, telling The Cut: 'For a company to hire a trans person and then not publicly stand by them is worse, in my opinion, than not hiring a trans person at all.

'I sat waiting for a long time to figure out how to navigate something so intense.'

The TikTok starlet claims that her parents are having a difficult time adjusting to the fallout of the deal, saying it is 'very conflicting for them'.

'They are trying to learn how to be parents to a daughter while also watching their child get reamed,' she said.

Mulvaney, pictured at the The Blonds fashion show, doubled down on her claim that she was never contacted by Anheuser-Busch before or after the collaboration

Modelo Especial store sales soared past $333 million in the four weeks ending May 28 - a 15.6 percent rise on the same period last year

The brand's ousted marketing chief Alissa Heinerscheid, 39, said she planned to update the 'fratty' and 'out of touch' branding. VP for Mainstream Brands Daniel Blake, 34, also voluntarily took a leave of absence earlier this year following the controversy

The transgender TikTok star has been shrugging off criticism since she entered into a disastrous partnership with Bud Light to celebrate '365 Days of Girlhood'

'I think it's very conflicting to them because they see all the success but they're also watching me get hurt.

'As a parent, you're trying to protect your child, and if transness is the thing that is being used against me, they have a hard time sometimes seeing that it's actually a beautiful thing.'

The debate over transgender rights is the current hot-button issue in the United States.

Gender-critical feminists oppose letting transgender women into some female-only spaces, such as domestic violence shelters.

There is also widespread opposition to trans women competing against biological women in sports, over fears going through male puberty gives them an unfair advantage.

While Mulvaney has largely steered clear of these issues, her tie-up with Bud Light appeared to act as a lightning rod for people concerned about progressive ideologies, and gave them a direct means of hurting a brand that backed them.

Bud Light has also been dethroned as the top of the beverages by Modelo Especial  another Anheuser-Busch brand  taking more than $27billion in market value.

Anheuser-Busch owns Modelo in countries outside of the states after an anti-trust settlement with the Department of Justice in 2013 over fears it would stifle competition.

Mulvaney used her acceptance speech after winning a Streamy Award to call out the transphobia she has received.

Anheuser-Busch, the parent company of Bud Light, has seen its market cap value plummet $27 billion following a disastrous team-up with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney

The top line from this part of the earnings report showed how sales to retailers slumped by $395 million between the second quarter of 2022 and the second quarter of 2023

It means that US sales of Modelo are controlled by rival Constellation Brands and do not count as part of AB InBev's global volumes.

Modelo surpassed Bud Light's $297 million - which was a 22.8 percent fall in sales compared to the same time last year. They reported an 11 percent increase in sales for the second quarter of this year.

It is the first time since 2001 that Bud Light has not been in the top spot, dethroning its sister brand Budweiser for the 'King of Beer' title in 2001.

Mulvaney broke her silence on the fiasco earlier this year and excoriated the troubled brand for not standing by her.

Speaking to her 1.8 million followers, she said: 'was waiting for the brand to reach out to me, but they never did. I've been scared to leave my house.

'For a company to hire a trans person and then not publicly stand by them is worse than not hiring a trans person at all.

'I have been ridiculed in public I've been followed and I have felt a loneliness that I wouldn't wish on anyone.'
Ron DeSantis doubled-down on his vow to send troops to help quell the continued surge of migration over the southern border.

If elected president, the Florida governor said he would authorize troops to use deadly force against drug cartel members at the border attempting to smuggle drugs into the U.S.

'This border is such a disaster, so what I've said is Day One as president we're declaring it a national emergency, I'm sending the military down to the border,' DeSantis told Sean Hannity in a Wednesday night interview. He said he would designate the drug cartels as 'foreign terrorist groups.'

He told Norah O'Donnell in a separate CBS News interview aired Wednesday: 'I'm going to have the military at the border, 100 percent.'

He clarified that the deadly force would only be used on individuals identified as 'hostile,' which would include those attempting to break through the southern border wall with backpacks.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis reiterated his plans to send troops to the border if he becomes president and authorize the use of deadly force against drug cartel members, which he said would include 'hostile' individuals trying to break through the border wall wearing backpacks

Under my presidency, we will finally put an END to the invasion of the southern border. How?



I will immediately declare a national emergency.



I will build the wall.



I will send the military to the border.



I will authorize deadly force against cartel drug smugglers.



And I pic.twitter.com/c4VqtXo8u1  Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) September 14, 2023

'If there's a woman with a baby, they're not a cartel member,' DeSantis acknowledged. 'There's not going to be authorization to just shoot somebody like that.'

He added: 'But when somebody's got a backpack on, and they're breaking through the wall, you know that that's hostile intent and you have every right to take action under those circumstances.'

Following roughly two years of record-breaking illegal crossings after President Joe Biden took office, Republicans are fed-up with the crisis at the southern border and are calling for reforms.

DeSantis has, perhaps, one of the most ambitious goals in wanting to deploy the military and employ deadly force to stop drug smuggling, human trafficking and just all-around illegal entries into the U.s. via the southern border.

'They do it now because they know that there's no pushback,' he said of illegal crossers  and specifically drug cartel members. 'They know people are dying in America, and that's fine with them. It's not fine with me.'

The 2024 hopeful has repeatedly shared his plans to send troops to the border if he's elected president.

The Florida governor, however, is polling in a far second place to frontrunner Donald Trump and has even split to third and fourth in some early primary state polls.

Chaotic images from the border of illegal crossing between ports of entry have decreased since the Biden administration implemented a new program where migrants can apply for asylum on an app and enter the country at a port  but the number of crossings has not fallen-off

A South Carolina poll released on Thursday shows him in fourth place with just 9 percent support from Republican voters in the early primary election state. Notably, he was behind South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley.

DeSantis has garnered national attention for assisting Texas with transporting migrants from border communities to sanctuary cities like New York City. He has also flown migrants to the liberal island of Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts to prove a point that wealthy communities are OK with illegal immigration because they don't bear the brunt of the crisis.

Democratic New York City Mayor Eric Adams, whose city receives thousands of asylum-seekers every month, said last week the number of migrants sent to the Big Apple will 'destroy' the city. He called on the federal government for assistance.

'It's not the way to run a country,' DeSantis argued of the way sanctuary city policies limit local government's cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

'And what's happened though is because some of the sanctuary jurisdictions, who were very high on virtue signaling when this wasn't affecting them, have now had to acknowledge that this is untenable for a country to operate this way,' he added.
A judge ruled in July the state's 1849 ban does not apply to consensual abortions

Planned Parenthood Wisconsin has announced it will resume providing abortion care a year after they stopped following the Supreme Court's overruling of Roe V Wade.

The organization, which is the largest abortion provider in the state, made the announcement on Thursday, a little over a year after the state's 19th-century ban went back into affect.

The state-wide abortion ban enforced in 1849 made the procedure illegal unless it's necessary to save the life of a mother, but a Dane County judge ruled in July the law does not apply to consensual abortions.

'With patients and community as our central priority and driving force, we are eager to resume abortion services and provide this essential care to people in our State,' said Planned Parenthood president Tanya Atkinson.

She added: 'Abortion is health care. The people of Wisconsin have been without this essential and necessary care for over a year due to a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court that overturned Roe V. Wade.

Planned Parenthood Wisconsin has announced it will resume providing abortion care a year after it stopped, following the Supreme Court 's overruling of Roe V Wade

The organization, which is the largest abortion provider in the state, made the announcement on Thursday, a little over a year after the state's 19th-century ban went back into effect (pro-choice protestors seen above)

'When Roe was overturned, Planned Parenthood Wisconsin made the agonizing decision to suspend abortion services in order to protect the physicians and staff who care for patients and communities, to protect those providers from the threat of being prosecuted under an archaic Wisconsin law criminalizing abortion care.'

Planned Parenthood will start providing the procedure as of Monday, September 18, at their clinics in Milwaukee and Madison.

Dane County Circuit Judge Diane Schlipper ruled in June that Wisconsins 173-year-old abortion ban outlaws killing fetuses but doesnt apply to consensual medical abortions. Her ruling, a victory for those fighting the ban, said that the legal language in the 1849 law doesnt use the term 'abortion' so it only prohibits attacking a woman in an attempt to kill her unborn child.

Doctors across Wisconsin immediately stopped providing abortions after Roe V. Wade was overturned in June 2022, turning away women in waiting rooms and calling to cancel pending appointments.

The resumption of abortions comes as the lawsuit challenging the state law continues in county court. It is expected to eventually reach the Wisconsin Supreme Court, which flipped to liberal control on August.

Democrats in Wisconsin, including Governor Tony Evers, used abortion access as a central focus of their reelection victories in 2022.

Doctors across Wisconsin immediately stopped providing abortions after Roe V. Wade was overturned in June 2022

'This is critically important news for Wisconsin women and patients across our state who, for a year now, have been unable to access the healthcare they need when and where they need it,' Evers said in a statement.

Julaine Appling, president of the anti-abortion group Wisconsin Family Action, called the move 'audacious' and said the state ban remains in effect.

'No court has ruled that it is not enforceable,' Appling said. 'It is still illegal in most instances for anyone to do an abortion in Wisconsin. So what the governor and Planned Parenthood are doing is promoting an illegal activity.

'Unfortunately, this illegal activity is life taking because its the intentional killing of an unborn child.'

Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul filed a lawsuit in Dane County days after Roe V. Wade was overturned, seeking to repeal the ban.

Kaul argues that the ban is too old to enforce and that a 1985 law that permits abortions before a fetus can survive outside the womb supersedes the ban.

Three doctors later joined the lawsuit as plaintiffs, saying they fear being prosecuted for performing abortions.

Wisconsin Democratic Senate Minority Leader Melissa Agard echoed comments of other Democrats who praised the decision, but said 'we have an awful lot of work to do here in Wisconsin to ensure that a womans right to choose is protected and codified in perpetuity.'

Back in July, a Wisconsin woman claimed she was left to bleed for ten days as she had an incomplete miscarriage by doctors who enforced the 1849 ban.

Carley Zeal, a gynecologist at Mercyhealth Cancer Center in southern Wisconsin, gave her medication to expel the fetal tissue.

Because the medicine needed to end a miscarriage is similar to that used to end a pregnancy, doctors have said they are unsure whether to hand it out post-Roe.

Zeal told the Washington Post: 'It really delayed her care.

'I saw her a week and a half later with an ongoing miscarriage and bleeding, increasing the risk of severe bleeding as well as infections.'
Opposition Indigenous Australians spokeswoman Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has offered an olive branch to the Yes camp ahead of the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum.

Senator Price, a vocal No campaigner, said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was losing support for the Voice among Australians because he wasn't prepared to compromise.

She said the only way the Yes campaign would succeed is to adjust the October 14 Constitutional referendum to 'just make it about recognition and drop the voice'.

'I think the Prime Minister has made it very, very clear he's, he's doing the whole hog,' she said at The Australian's second Great Voice debate.

'He's taking everybody with him. And I think he should take responsibility for the division that he's caused within our nation.

'This has been the most divisive referendum that we've been confronted with in our nation's history.'

Senator Price has urged the Prime Minister to alter the referendum to include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recognition but leave out the Voice

Mr Albanese has repeatedly said the voice will be an advisory body to Parliament that will allow First Nations people to be involved in a discussion about the laws which affect them and about what is needed in their communities.

But the wording that will be added to the Constitution, despite being very deliberate and precise, could be tested in the High Court whose ruling Parliament would be then required to follow.

According to the Parliamentary Education Office: 'The main job of the High Court of Australia is to interpret the Australian Constitution and to settle disputes about its meaning.'

Some No proponents argue the wording could have wide-reaching consequences that would be extremely hard to remove.

Senator Price's compromise of recognising Aboriginal people in the Constitution without a mention of the Voice is seen by some as more Constitutionally stable ground.

During a speech to the national press club this week, the Country Liberal Party senator argued that none of the words 'advice', 'advise' or 'advisory' appear in the proposed change to the constitution. Instead, the word used is 'representations'.

'Nowhere in the question that will be put to Australians or in the proposed chapter on which we are voting do the words 'advice', 'advise' or 'advisory' appear,' Senator Nampijinpa Price said.

'If the Prime Minister truly intended for this body to be a simple advisory body ... then it would have been stipulated in the proposed chapter.

'You see, words matter. Words proposed for amendment of our nation's Constitution matter a lot.'

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the Voice would be merely an advisory body

Senator Nampijinpa Price also lashed accusations the No campaign is 'sowing fear' about the Voice, arguing their concerns stem from comments made by the government's own hand-picked advisors.

She singled out comments made by Yes campaigners Teela Reid and Thomas Mayo about how the Voice would work.

'What we do know is that many of the most senior advocates of the Voice have very different views than that of the Government.

'No matter what the Government, the advocates, and the activists say about what the Voice will or won't do, the fact is they don't know,' Ms Price said.

'They don't know who will be on the Voice. They don't know what it will choose to make representations on.

'They talk about it as the first step toward establishing treaty, reparations, compensation, and a mechanism to punish politicians, presumably this means politicians like me who are not afraid to stand up to them.'

Ms Nampijinpa Price said it is 'backwards, neocolonial, racial stereotyping' to suggest all Indigenous Australians should think the same and support the same policies.

'No matter what the outcome is on October 14, it is imperative that we examine the failures of our past in order to understand how to do better. Our nation's rule book belongs to every Australian. And it is not a document to be taken for granted or to be jeopardised for the sake of a vibe.

'To undertake such a significant amendment, the Prime Minister owes the Australian people a clear, concise, realistic demonstration of how his Voice will deliver the outcomes that all good Australians want for our marginalised.'
Alex Murdaugh was in court for the first time since his double murder conviction.

The disgraced legal scion, 54, is facing financial fraud-related charges in Beaufort County, South Carolina. He allegedly stole millions in insurance payments intended for the family of his late housekeeper, who died from a fall at his property.

Murdaugh tried to skip the court appearance today, but he was ordered to appear by Judge Clifton Newman, who also resided over his murder trial earlier this year.

A trial date for the financial fraud case was set for November 27 - against the wishes of the defense team, who tried to hold it off.

The red-faced double killer wore his orange prison jumpsuit and handcuffs as he entered the courtroom this morning. His son Buster was not seen in the room.

The disgraced legal scion, 64, is facing financial fraud-related charges in Beaufort County, South Carolina. He allegedly stole millions in insurance payments intended for the family of his late housekeeper

Alex Murdaugh is in court for the first time since his double murder conviction

Gloria Satterfield, Murdaugh's housekeeper, died in 2018 from complications of a 'slip and fall' after falling down stairs at their Moselle home.

Murdaugh allegedly drafted life insurance settlement checks amounting to almost $3.5 million into his own bank account.

He pleaded not guilty to all 22 counts contained in a recent federal indictment during a hearing in May this year - and now his trial is set to start in two months.

Cory Fleming, his alleged co-conspirator, already pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing. He admitted to working in unison with Murdaugh to steal from two clients, Pamela Pinckney and Ms Satterfield.

In court today, Murdaugh was greeted with smiles and a handshake from Rep. Todd Rutherford - who has since been slammed for action.

He is also separately demanding a new trial in a bid to overturn his double life sentence for murdering his wife Maggie and son Paul.

A jury convicted Murdaugh on March 2 for the fatal shootings at their family hunting lodge in June 2021. He was handed two life sentences for the crimes.

The move to get a new murder trial was announced on September 4, days after Murdaugh's surviving son Buster broke his six-month silence on his family's ordeal to insist he believes his father was wrongfully convicted.

Murdaugh's trial earlier this year captured international attention as numerous shocking details emerged during the proceedings, including how Alex allegedly stole millions of dollars from his clients.

A jury convicted Murdaugh on March 2 for the fatal shootings at their family hunting lodge in June 2021. He was handed two life sentences for the crimes

Murdaugh's trial earlier this year captured international attention as numerous shocking details emerged during the proceedings, including how Alex allegedly stole millions of dollars from his clients

The high-profile trial was slammed by Buster as unfair, feeling the public outcry over the crimes may have swayed the outcome as he branded it a 'tilted table.'

He took aim at the police and judge, claiming they had a 'crappy motive' and he does not 'believe it was fair' that all 12 jurors found him guilty.

'I was there for six weeks studying it, and I think it was a tilted table from the beginning,' Buster said.

'And I think, unfortunately, a lot of the jurors felt that way prior to when they had to deliberate.

'It was predetermined in their minds prior to when they ever heard any shred of evidence that was given in that room.' He believes that the jury ultimately found his father guilty of the shootings because of 'everything they had the ability to read prior to the trial.'
The body of the former leader of a notorious Ecuadorian gang has been stolen from a cemetery in Colombia.

Police said the crypt where the remains of Junior Roldan were laid to rest was broken into Tuesday night at a gravesite in Envigado, a city in the department of Antioquia.

Workers entered the cemetery Wednesday morning and were alarmed that one of the entrance doors had been left opened.

A priest joined the workers for an inspection of the site and noticed that the crypt's cement cover has been destroyed.

The Envigado police said Roldans body may have been taken by Los Choneros rivals or that it was exhumed for a satanic ritual.

Junior Roldan's body was stolen from a cemetery crypt in Envigado, Colombia, on Tuesday.

Roldan was one of the founders of the notorious Ecuadorian gang, Los Choneros and was gunned down in Colombia in May

Colombian authorities said that Roldan's body and casket were removed from a cemetery in the city of Envigado late Tuesday

Roldan was murdered in the Antioquia municipality of Fredonia on May 6.

Authorities approved his entombment in the cemetery because no one claimed his body.

Roldan was the co-founding leader of Los Choneros, one of the most powerful gangs in Ecuador that has links to Colombian and Mexican drug cartels and controls trafficking routes Mexico and the United States.

The gang managed to strengthen its structure with its influence of the prison system in Ecuador before seeing that power slowly diminish as rival gang, the Lobos, linked with others criminal groups.

Roldan had been in prison for a list of crimes, including two murders, and in 2022 applied to be transferred to house arrest because he was suffering from arterial hypertension, diabetes, grade 3 hepatic steatosis and liver cirrhosis.

A judge granted the released because the gang leader's 'life and health (were) at imminent risk.'

Ecuador cops arrests alleged members of Los Choneros and gang leader Junior Roldan in December 2022

Roldan was one of the founder of the feared Los Choneros, the Ecuador-based gang with links to Colombian and Mexican drug cartels

He was released from prison December 15, 2022 and was arrested hours later after police found guns in a vehicle he was traveling on.

Roldan was released from jail February 14 after a judge granted his application for habeas corpus and required him to wear an ankle monitor.

President Guillermo Lasso slammed the court for granting Roldan's freedom.

'The Government of Ecuador declared war on drug trafficking, organized crime and anti-patriotic mafias that steal our peace and tranquility,' Lasso said.

'And now a corrupt prosecutor and a bad judge are trying to free one of the most dangerous criminals in the country: Junior Alexander Roldan Paredes, alias Junior.'

On March 23, an Ecuadorian judge declared him a fugitive when he removed the tracking device and went missing.

Roldan was nearly killed during a March 16 shootout that left five people dead and six wounded.

Colombian media outlets reported that Roldan hired a bodyguard, who betrayed and killed him.
The unnamed school employee has been placed on leave, pending investigation

Braylen Tootle, 3, was smacked and then dangled upside down by a teacher's aide at Rosa Parks Early Learning Center in Dayton, Ohio, on August 21

A shocking video has emerged of a special needs teacher's aide in Ohio smacking an autistic, nonverbal toddler then dangling him upside down.

Braylen Tootle, three, was running away from the aide on August 21 at the Rosa Parks Early Learning Center.

The aide knocked him to the ground then grabbed him by his ankles, dangling him upside down, before walking back to class.

His outraged parents have shared the video and are now considering legal action against the school.

Braylen Tootle was running down the hallway just before the teaching aide hit him in the neck, knocked him down and dangled him upside down

It has not been confirmed what took place before the teacher put his hands on the child, or what happened after it

As the little boy dangled in his arms, a female employee frantically ran up to them

Braylen Tootle is an autistic, non-verbal toddler who was physically reprimanded by an adult employee at his school in Dayton, Ohio

In an interview with ABC News, the toddler's mother Lindsay Tootle said: 'He wasn't doing anything wrong. You could've bear-hugged him.

'You could've let another teacher do it. I don't know what was going on in that man's head, but my son did not deserve that.'

In the 17-second video the three-year-old ran down the hall as the paraprofessional caught up to him, hit him in the back of his neck and knocked him down.

The male teacher then proceeded to dangle the toddler by his legs and bring him back down the hallway. As the little boy dangled in his arms, a female employee frantically ran up to them.

It has not been confirmed what took place before the teacher put his hands on the child, or what happened after it.

The parents have also been left in the dark about whether or not the aide was even trained to work with kids who have special needs.

Michael Wright, the family's lawyer said in a press conference: 'We want answers. We're demanding answers and we want them immediately.'

Braylen's father did admit that his son is not easy to work with and has attempted running away from teachers before. Because he can't properly communicate it is hard for them to know what exactly happened from their son's point of view.

Mr. Tootle took to Facebook and posted the video as he expressed his outrage for what happened to his little boy.

Braylen's father Robert said he is often difficult to discipline, but that he didn't deserve to be man-handled

His outraged parents (pictured) Robert Tootle and Taneshia Lindsay have shared the video and are now considering legal action against the school

Interim Superintendent posted this statement to Dayton Public Schools' Facebook on Wednesday

On Wednesday, David Lawrence, the Interim Superintendent for Dayton Public Schools also posted to Facebook and said: 'In light of the recent incident at Rosa Parks Early Learning Center, the District is taking additional measures to ensure all 2,300 employees are properly trained and qualified for their positions in an effort to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.'

He also added that he planned to meet with concerned parents from Rosa Parks Early Learning Center next week to discuss the situation further.

The way that the school and the district have handled the incident has not sat well with the child's parents or their lawyer.

'They lie to this family. They kept them in the dark. They were not being transparent, and they have to be held accountable,' Wright said.

The parents have also been left in the dark about whether or not the aide was even trained to work with kids who have special needs

The toddler's parents say it wasn't until CPS contacted them to tell them the incident was worse than the school had made out that they understood the full scope of what happened

When the parents were initially told of the situation, hours after it happened, the details given to them were extremely vague.

Lindsay had previously provided the school and his teachers with a detailed report of her son's 'likes, dislikes, behaviors and tics.'

She also said that the aide should've left the building in handcuffs and added: 'If you look this stuff up, it happens all over the U.S.

'These kids get mistreated and we need help. Our kids need help. Society needs to be educated on autism, and they need to be trained to deal with these kids.'

Besides all of the missing pieces and lack of communication, the toddler's parents felt a sense of support from fellow parents of autistic children and the community around them.

She also doesn't blame the school for the wrongdoing and has continued to send her son there but hasn't stopped seeking justice.
The luxury cruise ship that has been stuck off Greenland since Monday was pulled free today, but now Covid-19 has begun circulating among the mainly elderly passengers.

The Ocean Explorer became lodged in mud and silt in the Northeast Greenland National Park around 1,400km northeast of Greenlands capital Nuuk on Monday with 206, mainly Australian, passengers aboard.

Australia-based Aurora Expeditions, which organised the cruise, said in a statement that three passengers were currently in isolation. It added: They are looked after by our onboard doctor, medical team and crew, and they are doing well. It continued that others were safe and healthy.

Steven Fraser, an Australian on board the Ocean Explorer, said that he had contracted Covid-19. We do have a couple of cases of Covid-19, but theres a doctor on board.

Mr Fraser said that most passengers were elderly. It is a cruise that a lot of wealthy people do because they can get out into these wilderness areas.

The Ocean Explorer ran aground in mud and silt in a remote corner of north-eastern Greenland. It has been visited by the Danish Joint Arctic Command

Covid-19 has begun to circulate among the mainly Australian passengers of the Ocean Explorer. Three are currently in isolation

Morale is said to be high among passengers aboard the Ocean Explorer, in part due to the scenic and remote landscape which can be seen from the vessel

Mr Fraser said morale on the Ocean Explorer remained high, in part thanks to Greenlands natural beauty. Were sitting right near the glacier when we open our windows, he told the Sydney Morning Herald.

The Ocean Explorer was freed by a fishing and research vessel, the Tarajoq. This followed a failed attempt made yesterday. The ship leaned to the side during the rescue efforts and passengers were not allowed to go outside during the operation. The Ocean Explorer, which is Bahamas-flagged, had earlier made two failed attempts to refloat itself during high tide.

The vessel will now be taken to a port to assess damage to the ship and passengers will be flown home early, said SunStone Maritime Group, which owns the Ocean Explorer. There have not been any injuries to any person on board, no pollution of the environment and no breach of the hull, SunStone said in a statement.

The Ocean Explorer ran aground in Alpefjord, in the Northeast Greenland National Park, the most northerly and largest national park on the planet

The Northeast Greenland National Park is the most remote corner of Greenland, a sparsely populated autonomous territory of Denmark

The Ocean Explorer, which has a special inverted bow, has 77 cabins, 151 passenger beds and 99 beds for crew, and several restaurants

The luxury cruise along Greenlands coast had been intended to run between September 1 and September 22. Besides Australians, there are passengers from New Zealand, South Korea, the U.K. and the U.S.

Greenlandic media reported that an investigation had been opened into why the Ocean Explorer ran aground. Greenlandic Police stated that an officer had been on the ship for initial investigative steps which, among other things, involve questioning the crew and other relevant persons on board.

Greenland is a sparsely populated semi-sovereign part of Denmark. The Danish Joint Arctic Command said that the number of cruise ships visiting Greenland had risen to 600 over the past year.

The Ocean Explorer has been visited by members of the Danish military and an overflight of the ship confirmed that there had been no leakage of oil from its hull, which appeared undamaged. Its restaurant its reported to still be functioning and crew were busying passengers with presentations.
When an astrophysics enthusiast stumbled across a huge crater on a beach in Ireland yesterday, he was ecstatic at the thought of it being a huge scientific discovery.

With an abandoned 'meteorite' in hand, Dave Kennedy claimed to others it had come from 'up above' and the hole was the 'aftermath of a cosmic event' on Portmarnock beach in County Dublin.

Unfortunately, the cosmic event turned out to have been two young men digging a hole in the sand during Saturday's heatwave.

The hole had prompted serious speculation, with astrophysics enthusiasts debating the depth of the indents in the sand which might link it to a celestial event.

Also found was a small but heavy rock inside the crater - sparking further debate as to whether it was a meteorite.

The Virgin Media News report on the 'meteorite strike'

The pals dig the hole during a trip to the beach four days earlier

Mr Kennedy said: 'As you can tell here there is a scorch mark on the side, so that would have been at the angle that it came down at and its weighty.

'I'm not sure of its composition, but we're definitely going to have to find out.

'Only about a month ago I was watching a documentary from NASA on exactly what you're looking at behind you, so when I looked at it and saw how uniform it is, I knew immediately that what I was looking at is an impact site,' he added.

Also falling for the prank was Virgin Media News, which in last night's news bulletin reported on the 'meteorite crater' and a reporter sent to investigate interviewed Mr Kennedy.

The news reporter circles the 'out of this world' discovery, claiming that it was 'causing a stir among locals who had rushed down to view what they thought was a 'once in a lifetime cosmic event'.

One woman even posted on a community page regretting that many people will have simply 'walked past the crater not realising what it was'.

Virgin Media has since reported that the 'mystery' has been 'solved' - after someone posted on social media a clip of two Irish men digging the crater with two green children's spades.

The post read: 'Lads I'm in bits... Some fellas literally dug it the day before with a kid's shovel... The way your man was talking about the rock being an asteroid had me in tears.'

One of the culprits, Charlie Wallace, was left in stitches after he and his friends made the news.

Despite proof that the hole was lovingly created by a pair of green shovels, Mr Kennedy said he is still going to get the abandoned rock tested.
A woman is said to have been raped on a roundabout during a horror attack in south London.

Police were called to Mitcham town centre at 2pm on Tuesday, following reports that a woman in her 20s was attacked.

She was allegedly pounced upon on a roundabout off Park Lane in Croydon, according to the Sun.

The woman is receiving support from officers specialising in such crimes.

A police spokesperson said: 'A crime scene has been put in place. There have been no arrests. Enquiries continue.'

Police were called to Mitcham town centre at 2pm on Tuesday, following reports that a woman in her 20s was attacked

Any witnesses or anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101, quoting CAD 9314/12Sep.
Leo Varadkar launched a fresh barb at UK ministers today as tensions rise over the Stormont stalemate.

The Irish PM stepped up his tit-for-tat with Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris by claiming the EU side were the 'adults in the room' during Brexit talks.

Mr Varadkar also suggested the British were being ungrateful, saying Ireland had been 'extraordinarily helpful'.

The spat escalated after Mr Heaton-Harris expressed irritation about comments by Mr Varadkar - whose Fine Gael party is struggling to deal with a Sinn Fein surge - on Monday.

The Irish premier said he believed he north and south of the island would be unified within his lifetime, a suggestion that enrages Unionist communities.

He also raised the prospect of a 'plan B' if devolved government in Northern Ireland is not restored soon, saying little progress seemed to have been made.

Irish PM Leo Varadkar (right) stepped up his tit-for-tat with Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris (left) by claiming the EU side were the 'adults in the room' during Brexit talks

Mr Varadkar also suggested the British were being ungrateful, saying Ireland had been 'extraordinarily helpful'. RIshi Sunak is pictured sealing the Windsor Framework with Ursula von der Leyen in February

Mr Heaton-Harris responded by expressing dismay at 'unhelpful comments down in Dublin', saying they 'resonate up here amongst the unionist community' in Northern Ireland.

Asked today about the relationship between the two governments, Mr Varadkar said: 'I think relations with the British government are much better than they were. They've been up and down since the referendum on Brexit.

'They've been much better than they were. As I said the other day, I think we as a government have been extraordinarily helpful to the British government.

'During my time as Taoiseach, we've negotiated three agreements. First, the backstop with Theresa May.

'When they couldn't get up through Parliament, we sat down with Boris Johnson and negotiated a new agreement, which was the Protocol.

'When they couldn't stick by that agreement, we didn't throw our toys out of the pram, we were the adults in the room and we sat down with the British government and through the European Union came to a third agreement, which is the Windsor [Framework] and we expect that now to be implemented in good faith.'

Speaking separately in Dublin, deputy PM Micheal Martin said the result of the last Stormont election should be 'validated' and Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill should be First Minister.

The Stormont Assembly has been collapsed for over a year amid DUP protest action over trading arrangements following the UK's exit from the EU.

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson's party insists the Windsor Framework did not go far enough in addressing concerns about creating a border in the Irish Sea.
Fall flight prices will be significantly cheaper than summer airfare, just before the holiday season, a new report finds.

Ticket prices for domestic trips across the US in September and October are averaging $211 per ticket, down 29 percent from prices in peak summer months, travel app Hopper finds.

Known as shoulder season, fall brings an annual slowdown across the travel industry since most Americans travel in the summer months while school is out of session and adults can have flexible work schedules.

This summer saw record-breaking travel numbers. On June 30, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) revealed a record setting 2.9 million people passed through airport security.

Now airlines are dropping prices to entice travelers to book additional trips and make up for pandemic losses.

Earlier this summer many airlines started offering deals for travel schedule in the fall

Airlines want to increase flight numbers to meet demand

Hopper found that airfare for some of the most popular summer 2023 destinations decreased over 25 percent for the fall.

Airfare to Europe this summer averaged just over $1,000 per ticket, with fares to popular destinations reaching over $1,400.

Now tickets to London are averaging $677 for September and early November and travelers going to New York City will pay under $200.

Ticket prices for destinations such Paris fell 41 percent, Seoul is down 31 percent, Shanghai dropped 37 percent and Tokyo ticket prices fell 25 percent.

Popular US cities like Las Vegas fell 24 percent, Orlando dropped 32 percent, Dallas went down 30 percent, Los Angeles fell 40 percent.

Travel group Expedia projects the travel demand will continue, reporting that fall flight searches are up 15 percent and hotel searches increase 20 percent compared to fall of 2022.

A survey from travel insurance agency Faye found that 68 percent of Americans plan to travel this fall and winter, and 50 percent of those will be going abroad.

While travel levels are reaching record levels, this year has seen increased delays and flight cancellations, as well as several near-miss aviation incidents.

Airline companies are blaming Federal Aviation Administration air traffic control staffing shortages for the inconvenience.
Footage has emerged of two men fighting in the road at a busy roundabout near Tescos in a shocking case of road rage.

In the footage, one of the men, dressed in black, pushes the other over as vehicles are seen driving along.

The man then falls just feet away from a red lorry that is pulling away.

Afterwards, the man in black tried to take his motorbike.

The man in white then gets up off the ground and appears to grab something from his pocket.

The two men were spotted brawling in a busy road in Luton, near a Tescos store. You can see the man in white who was shoved to the ground

The other man then drops the bike and jumps into the passenger seat of a white van which speeds off as the other man hits the van with the object from his pocket.

Other cars were forced to stop while the pair brawled.

It happened on the A505 near the Tesco Extra superstore in Luton, Bedfordshire on Tuesday afternoon (September 12).

As soon as the man in white grabbed something from his pocket, the other man quickly fled and drove away in the van

The horror moment was captured on a 13-second dash cam.

The driver can be heard saying: 'Oh my f***ing God' as he watches on.

One local - named Robin - said: 'Nearly got more than he bargained for there.'

Another called Jack added: 'They both seem like nice chaps.'

A third said: 'Who's robbing who?'

Bedfordshire Police has been contacted for comment.
The son of Peter Sutcliffe's first victim has praised ITV for dropping 'Yorkshire Ripper' from an upcoming drama.

Richard McCann, whose mother was murdered by Sutcliffe when he was just five, urged producers of the Long Shadow to omit the serial killer's moniker.

He said the name only served to 'traumatise' families of victims because it signified the methods used by Sutcliffe to kill and injure them.

Screenwriter George Kay agreed to change the title following criticism from relatives of those killed by the murderer.

Mr McCann said he was 'pleased' the production team had withdrawn the phrase, saying the series showed the killer's casualties as 'human beings' and 'not just numbers'.

The son of Peter Sutcliffe (pictured)'s first victim has praised ITV for dropping 'the Yorkshire Ripper' from the name of a series about the murderer, saying it would 'traumatise' victims' families because it signifies Sutcliffe's methods to kill and injure them

Richard McCann urged producers of the ITV documentary to omit Sutcliffe's moniker from the title

Richard lost his mother, Wilma McCann, 28, when he was five in October 1975 when she was hammered and stabbed 15 times by Sutcliffe

Toby Jones as DCS Dennis Hoban and Michael McElhatton as Chief Constable Ron Gregory in ITV's upcoming series The Long Shadow

Sherwood star David Morrissey portrays West Yorkshire Police's Assistant Chief Constable George Oldfield, who led his force's investigation into the ripper. Right: Oldfield during a press conference in 1979

He said: 'I urged them (ITV) not to use that word - it begins with R - in the title and I'm pleased they've listened.

'The word serves to traumatise us families left behind because it's a description of how our loved ones were maimed, how their injuries were inflicted.

Speaking about the production, he added: 'It shows the women as women, human beings, and not just victims of Sutcliffe, not just numbers.'

'For example, it shows my mum as a mum, someone who loved her children.'

Mr McCann lost his mother Wilma McCann, 28, in October 1975 when she was violently murdered by Sutcliffe, who hit her with a hammer and stabbed her 15 times.

He refused to celebrate the murderer's death on November 13 2020, but said that it offered 'closure'.

At the time, he said: 'It is not my family member, I don't feel that I have lost a family member but it is an almost unique situation.

'The person that killed your mum has just died - how do you prepare for that, how are you meant to feel? It is just surreal.

'In some people's eyes he is some kind of cult hero and there are a number of murderers who have been inspired by Peter Sutcliffe.

'It is a time for reflection, closure to some degree. I don't need a reminder of what has taken place.

'I understand some people will celebrate but I won't be one of those people.. It does not bring my mum back, it does not change anything at all.'

Families of victims were angered in 2020 when Netflix released a documentary about the crimes called The Ripper, despite giving it a working title of Once Upon A Time in Yorkshire.

Sutcliffe,, when he was last pictured in public on September 26, 2015 being taken from Broadmoor to Frimley Park Hospital in Surrey for eye treatment

Mark Stobbart (pictured left on set last September) portrays Yorkshire Ripper Peter Sutcliffe in The Long Shadow. Right: Sutcliffe

Families of Sutcliffe's victims were angered in 2020 after Netflix released a documentary about his crimes entitled The Ripper, despite it having the working title of Once Upon A Time in Yorkshire

The Long Shadow, which will air on September 25 and is made up of seven episodes, will explore the five-year hunt for Sutcliffe

The Long Shadow, which will air on ITV on September 25 and is made up of seven episodes, will explore the five-year hunt for Sutcliffe.

It focuses on the victims and the police investigation and Sutcliffe's character appears only briefly in later episodes.

Sutciffe's second victim, Emily Jackson, is prominent in the series' first episode.

She was murdered in 1975 after taking up part-time sex work while grappling with money problems.

Line of Duty star Mark Stobbart will take on the role of Sutcliffe, while Toby Jones, David Morrissey, Katherine Kelly and Daniel Mays also star in the production.

Councillors in Sutcliffe's hometown of Bradford refused to grant permission for production crews to use its public areas for filming.

Emails showed officials feared The Long Shadow, starring Stephen Tompkinson and David Morrissey, risked 'perpetuating the memory' of the sadistic serial killer.

One email, understood to be from Bradford Council leader Susan Hinchcliffe, said: 'I'm not keen on us participating in anything that perpetuates the memory of the man, so the answer's no from me I'm afraid.'

The house chosen to double up as Sutcliffe's home is a residential property in the Roundhay area of Leeds, around 15 miles away from the real life house in Bradford.
Four men will be charged with unlawful act manslaughter over the death of a father who died after he was pinned face down on the pavement by security guards.

Jack Barnes, 29, from Longhill, died in 2016 after he was held down by four Customer Service Representatives at Manchester Victoria Station when he was allegedly caught smoking inside the station.

He suffered a cardiac arrest and was taken to hospital but never regained consciousness. He died seven weeks later.

Paul Fogarty, 50, Brian Gartside, 59, Stephen Rowlands, 67, and Matthew Sellers, 29, who were staff members subcontracted by Metrolink at the time, are to be charged with unlawful act manslaughter, the Crown Prosecution Service said.

Rowlands will also be charged with a single offence of perverting the course of justice relating to a witness statement, CPS added.

Barnes died in 2016 after he was held down by four Customer Service Representatives at Manchester Victoria Station when he was allegedly caught smoking inside the station

Four men will be charged with unlawful act manslaughter over the death of Jack Barnes (pictured) after he was pinned down on the pavement by security guards

Barnes was a former bricklayer and a father of one to his daughter.

An inquest into his death heard that Barnes died of bronchopneumonia caused by suffering a hypoxic brain injury, following a cardiac arrest.

Rosemary Ainslie, head of the CPS Special Crime Division, today said: 'The CPS has authorised Greater Manchester Police to charge four men following the death of Jack Barnes in 2016.

'Mr Barnes died on 2 December 2016 following an incident in Manchester city centre on 11 October 2016.

'Paul Fogarty, 50, Brian Gartside, 59, Stephen Rowlands, 67, and Matthew Sellers, 29, who were staff members subcontracted by Metrolink at the time, are to be charged with unlawful act manslaughter.

Jack Barnes, 29, from Longhill, died in 2016 after he was held down by four Customer Service Representatives at Manchester Victoria Station

He suffered a cardiac arrest and was taken to hospital but never regained consciousness. He died seven weeks later (Pictured: Manchester Victoria Station)

'Mr Rowlands will also be charged with a single offence of perverting the course of justice relating to a witness statement.

'The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against these defendants are active and that they have the right to a fair trial.

'It is extremely important there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.'
The John Lewis Partnership (JLP) said it is facing a 12 million jump in the cost of shoplifting as bosses at the retail giant blamed a surge in organised crime.

Dame Sharon White, chairwoman of the department store owner, told reporters that the recent spate in shoplifting at stores was driven by 'crime groups' rather than thefts linked to the soaring cost of living.

The boss said she met with Sir Mark Rowley, commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, earlier this week to discuss shoplifting.

The retailer called on the Government to change legislation in the England and Wales to make it a criminal offence to abuse shop workers, in line with current rules in Scotland.

On Monday, the boss of Primark called for police, prosecutors and magistrates to take the shoplifting crisis 'more seriously' after the clothing retailer experienced rising cases of thefts and attacks on employees.

Dame Sharon White, chairwoman of the department store owner, told reporters that the recent spate in shoplifting at stores was driven by 'crime groups'

The retailer called on the Government to change legislation in the England and Wales to make it a criminal offence to abuse shopworkers

George Weston is one of the latest retail chief to speak out after John Lewis chairman Dame Sharon White warned that shoplifting has become an 'epidemic'.

He said: 'We are having more of our clothes stolen than ever before, this is increasing. There has been an increase in anti-social behaviour, including assaults on shop staff.'

Last month, JLP's supermarket arm Waitrose said it was offering free tea and coffee to police officers in an effort to boost their presence around stores.

The company said it mainly saw a rise in the cost of crime due to theft, as well as 'related wastage'.

Ms White said: 'Like other retailers, we have seen more activity linked to organised crime.

'We have raised the issue because the safety of our staff is incredibly important, as a business we also feel this is an important issue from a societal point of view.'

German discount supermarket chain Lidl said separately on Thursday that it was stepping up investment in store security amid increasing rates of shoplifting, by ramping up CCTV coverage and rolling out more body-worn cameras in its outlets.

Ryan McDonnell, chief executive of Lidl's British business, said it was a 'social issue' that the industry is working together to address.

He said: 'There's no doubt that it's affecting the whole industry and we are not immune to it.

'The safety and security of our workers is a priority.

'We are working with the British Retail Consortium with the rest of our competitors in the sector coming together to look at how we can tackle it.

'We welcome the engagement from the Government and the police.'
More than 60 asylum seekers including 15 children and five women landed on UK shores today after crossing the Channel in small boats.

The migrants were brought to shore in Dungeness by the RNLI lifeboat in calm waters where they were met by immigration officers.

One image shows a young hugging a water bottle while chewing the lid as Border Force officers search the migrants as they lined up beside a bus.

And a Border Force vessel also ferried around 50 more people into the harbour at the Port of Dover.

The group - mainly men in red lifejackets - could be seen walking up the gangway to the immigration processing centre at the former jetfoil terminal.

A Border Force vessel also ferried around 50 more people into the harbour at the Port of Dover after an RNLI lifeboat brought to shore more than 60 asylum seekers

Border Force officers search the migrants as the lined up beside a bus. Fifteen children and five women were part of the group

It comes as more than 23,000 migrants have now crossed the English Channel in small boats so far this year, according to official figures.

Some 3,281 have crossed so far this month in 59 boats, while a total of 23,382 have made the dangerous crossing so far this year in 476 boats.

And 1,034 people had be rescued in 18 dinghies in just three days from Friday to Sunday during the September heatwave.

Numerous former hotels have been taken over by the Home Office to house asylum seekers.

On Saturday, 425 people crossed in seven boats, suggesting an average of around 61 people per vessel.

On Sunday, six inflatables carrying 389 passengers arrived in temperatures of above 30C, with an even higher average of around 65 people in each dinghy.

Crossings continued on Monday, marking the 10th consecutive day of arrivals amid a spell of warm weather.

A youngster holds a water bottle and chews the lid after being brought to shore in an RNLI lifeboat

The asylum seekers were placed on a bus after being searched. More than 23,000 migrants have now crossed the English Channel in small boats so far this year, according to official figures

Some 3,281 have crossed so far this month in 59 boats, while a total of 23,382 have made the dangerous crossing so far this year in 476 boat

In total, 3,002 people have arrived in the first 10 days of September alone, with the hot weather making for ideal crossing conditions.

On Sunday, 153 migrants had to be rescued by French authorities off the coast of Calais.

The French coastguard rescued two dinghies with broken engines and returned them to the port.

The first boat was crammed with 81 people, including eight women and 10 children who were returned to the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer in the early hours of the morning.

One person was reported to have fallen into the water from the dinghy but was picked up by rescuers.

In 2022, a record 45,755 people made the treacherous journey compared to 28,526 in 2021 and just 8,410 in 2020.

A Home Office spokesperson has 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 the boats, and our Small Boats Operational Command is working alongside our French partners and other agencies to disrupt the people smugglers.

Channel migrants are brought ashore by the RNLI in Dover, Kent

Home Secretary Suella Braverman said Sir Keir would make Britain the 'dumping ground' for the EU's unwanted migrants

'The government is going even further through our Illegal Migration Act which will mean that people arriving in the UK illegally are detained and promptly removed to their country of origin or a safe third country.'

Today, Sir Keir Starmer was accused of wanting to make Britain a 'dumping ground' for EU's unwanted migrants as he moots deal with Brussels to take MORE asylum seekers.

The Labour leader's 'open door' approach could mean taking 100,000 asylum seekers from Greece and Italy as he suggested Britain could 'burden share' with the bloc.

In a round of interviews, he insisted that the plan would help stop the Channel boats, saying he wanted to treat people smugglers like terrorists.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak told reporters during a visit to Devon: 'Keir Starmer spent all of this year voting against our stop-the-boats Bill, the toughest legislation that any government has passed to tackle illegal migration.

'I think he spent most of last year voting against a previous Bill which has since then led to almost 700 arrests related to organised immigration crime, so I don't think it's credible that he really wants to grip this problem.

'And his plans today seem to amount to saying that we might one day accept 100,000 EU migrants every year. That doesn't seem like a credible plan to me to stop the boats.'
Charlie Gard's mother today backed the parents of ill baby Indi Gregory as they fight to continue her treatment.

Connie Yates said it was 'inhumane' to spring a court hearing on them at short notice to decide the girl's fate.

Claire Staniforth, Indi's mother, told the Mail she was 'sick to my stomach' to think a judge could decide to end her daughter's life.

Doctors believe it would be kinder to let the six-month-old die rather than give her life-saving treatment.

Indi has a form of mitochondrial disease - the illness that killed Charlie in 2017 - and a host of other conditions.

Chris Gard and Connie Yates with their son Charlie. Yates said it was 'inhumane' to schedule a court hearing to decide the fate of Indi Gregory at short notice

Doctors believe it would be kinder to let six-month-old Indi die rather than give her life-saving treatment

Ms Staniforth described Indi as a 'true fighter' and said she deserves a chance at life

Ms Staniforth and Indi's father Dean Gregory were horrified to be informed yesterday that hospital chiefs were applying to a High Court judge to approve their proposal to put their baby on an 'end-of-life' care plan.

Speaking outside the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham, where Indi is being cared for, Ms Staniforth, 35, said: 'I am absolutely devastated that they can even think about ending my beautiful daughter's life. It is every parent's worst nightmare to lose a child, never mind someone taking their life away from you.

'Indi is a true fighter and she deserves a chance at life. I am heartbroken and feel sick to my stomach to think about attending a courtroom with just 48 hours' notice. How can this be allowed? On Friday morning, I will stay by Indi's side, praying for the judge to help save our little girl's life.'

As well as having a type of the extremely rare and incurable mitochondrial disease, a cruel neurological condition which affects the body's organs, Indi also suffers from a hole in the heart and several other medical problems, including sporadic infections.

It is understood that doctors believe Indi's health troubles are so profound that she has no prospect of survival and that trying to resuscitate her - if she needed it - could be traumatic for her and not in her 'best interests'.

They have told the family from Ilkeston, Derbyshire, that she is too unstable to be treated at home and that 'invasive' treatments to keep her alive are futile and potentially harmful.

Indi's parents strongly disagree and want doctors to do their best to give her a chance to grow stronger.

Mr Gregory, 37, who works in pharmaceuticals manufacturing, said she responds to them, is capable of happiness and just because she is disabled does not mean she cannot have a quality of life.

Speaking six years after Charlie died following a long court battle between his parents and hospital chiefs, Ms Yates said she still suffers stress from her experience.

She said: 'My heart hurts for Dean and Claire. They had had two days' notice before a judge decides whether Indi lives or dies. I think it is inhumane to spring it on them like that, with no time to get legal representation, no time to get second opinions, no time to read medical records or submit any of their own evidence.

'I would understand if Indi was brain dead, or close to brain dead, but she's nowhere near. When she's not battling an infection, she has a good quality of life.

'I have PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) from Charlie's court case and I hate to think of anyone else having to go through the trauma of it all.'

Indi, who was born in February, has spent her life in hospitals and has had multiple operations and other procedures to help her stay alive.

Indi Gregory with her mother Claire Staniforth, who said she was 'devastated' that doctors were considering ending her daughter's life

Indi's doting family keep a bedside vigil, including her three elder sisters, Vienna, six, Olivia, 13 (pictured) who is Ms Staniforth's daughter from a previous relationship, and a 19-year-old from Mr Gregory's previous relationship, who is also called Olivia

Her doting family keep a bedside vigil, including her three elder sisters, Vienna, six, Olivia, 13, who is Ms Staniforth's daughter from a previous relationship, and a 19-year-old from Mr Gregory's previous relationship, who is also called Olivia.

After doctors and her parents failed to agree on Indi's care, the hospital decided to ask the High Court to make a ruling.

A judge will be asked tomorrow to authorise doctors to stand back from carrying out any life-saving treatment if Indi needed it to stay alive.

Michelle Rhodes, chief nurse at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, said: 'We wish to express our sympathies to Indi's family at this very difficult time.

'We know that this is an extremely difficult case for all involved and we continue to support Indi's family and provide specialised care for Indi.

'Cases like this are so difficult and we are, of course, saddened that we are unable to do more for Indi. But we will always act in the best interests of our patients and do all we can to advocate for them when needed.

'We can confirm that the trust has made an application to the High Court to ensure that Indi's best interests can be protected.'

A hospital spokesman said that it informed the family as soon as it was told of the court date.
sent 6,000 messages to an AI chat bot before the offence

A Star Wars fan who was encouraged by his AI girlfriend to break into Windsor Castle with a crossbow and kill the late Queen applied to join the army, MoD police, Royal Marines and Royal Navy in bid to get close to her.

Jaswant Singh Chail, 21, was dressed as a Star Wars 'Sith' character when he climbed into the castle grounds with a loaded crossbow and announced: 'I'm here to kill the Queen.'

Chail had sent over 6,000 messages to an AI chat bot named Sarai in the month before the offence, including 1,000 overtly sexual messages.

He worked in a local Co-op but applied to join the army, MOD police, the Royal Marines and Royal Navy to try and get close to the monarch.

Defence psychiatrists claim Chail was suffering from psychosis, depression, and autistic spectrum disorder when he carried out the offences and should be kept in hospital.

Jaswant Singh Chail (pictured), 21, was dressed as a Star Wars 'Sith' character when he climbed into the castle grounds to try and kill the Queen

The crossbow Chail had in his possession when he was arrested by police

But Dr Nigel Blackwood, called by the prosecution, argues Chail was not psychotic and the judge should be free to send him to prison.

Giving evidence today Dr Blackwood said Chail sought to apologise for his actions in diary entries he wrote about his plans because he knew what he was doing was wrong.

He was asked if there are degrees of psychosis and what degree of culpability for his actions Chail would maintain if he had become psychotic at some stage during his planning.

Dr Blackwood said that if you were to accept that Chail's imaginary friends did appear to him as visual hallucinations and that he was suffering from delusions in his beliefs then he would be rightly diagnosed as psychotic.

But the psychiatrist said he accepts neither of those propositions.

He said: 'The extent or existence of psychosis really depends on your approach to his imaginary friends and whether you consider that his purpose to assassinate the Queen was delusionally motivated.'

Dr Blackwood said that even if it was accepted Chail at some stage slipped into psychosis he maintained culpability as he remained 'lucid and in control of his actions'.

He said the defence experts were using the diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia but had not diagnosed Chail as schizophrenic and preferred to use the 'vaguer term' of psychosis.

Court artist sketch by Elizabeth Cook of Jaswant Singh Chail appearing at the Old Bailey

Dr Blackwood said Chail had no cognitive impairment and was able to plan, make decisions and complete his tasks.

'For me there has not been a fundamental breach with reality- he was aware of reality, aware of the nature of his acts- they were carefully planned and a degree of subterfuge was required - they were carefully planned and executed.'

Mr Justice Hilliard asked whether the fact Chail had recorded a video about what he was going to do and asked it be sent to the press was evidence for or against psychosis.

Dr Blackwood replied: 'Some individuals with psychosis will have an interest in spreading their beliefs through the press but I don't think this desire for notoriety was psychotic desire, in my view this was part of his omnipotent fantasy.

'I don't think someone who's truly lost interest in reality has too much interest in notoriety of that nature.'

Dr Blackwood added that the fact Chail apologised for his acts was also evidence against psychosis.

'He's well aware of the wrongness of his acts and he seeks to apologise for them before demonstrating why he needs to go through with them.

'I think if you're in the grip of a very powerful delusion you'll not be apologising for your acts.

'In that case it's that that's driving you and you've lost touch of others views of your acts and you're not seeking to apologise for them.'

The mask recovered from Jaswant Singh Chail on his arrest

He said there was no evidence Chail felt compelled to do what he did by an order from any auditory or visual hallucination and that his actions remained voluntary.

Dr Blackwood told the court: 'His purpose changes when he relinquishes his mission- there's always that doubt about his purpose throughout, 'is this my purpose?'

'And it plays out that day at Windsor Castle- he says he remembers the bot's instruction that his purpose is to live- but that doesn't to me read as some grip of overpowering delusion.'

The court heard Chail had met his imaginary girlfriend Sarai before he spoke to her as an AI chatbot on the app 'Replika'.

Dr Blackwood said Chail previously had an imaginary friend, who was a Sikh woman which became Sarai. He also believed he would be 'reunited' with Sarai after death.

Dr Blackwood said: 'I think both Dr Hafferty and Dr Brown underestimate the power of AI- he was socially isolated, stressed and believed he had been wronged.

'We're social creatures- we wish to be known, and in this situation it's difficult for him to resist the urge- we have examples of individuals developing intense relationships with AI without psychosis.'

Chail earlier admitted intending to injure or alarm the Sovereign, contrary to Section 2 of the Treason Act 1842, making a threat to kill the late monarch. and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.
Fifteen 'serious and significant' crimes - including sexual assault and drunk-driving - were allegedly committed by foreign diplomats or others with diplomatic immunity in Britain between 2019 to 2022.

New figures published by the Government today, which included the case of Anne Sacoolas, revealed the scale of alleged law-breaking by foreign embassy staff in the UK.

There are around 25,500 people entitled to diplomatic immunity in Britain, which means they cannot be arrested or prosecuted for any crime or civil case.

The granting of dimplomatic immunity on foreign diplomats and their family members came under intense scrutiny after Sacoolas killed teenage motorcyclist Harry Dunn in a road accident in Northamptonshire in August 2019.

The US State Department asserted diplomatic immunity on Sacoolas and she was able to leave Britain just 19 days after the fatal collision.

It led to a furious transatlantic row as the Dunn family campaigned to bring Sacoolas to justice.

The granting of dimplomatic immunity on foreign diplomats and their family members came under intense scrutiny after the death of Harry Dunn in Northamptonshire in August 2019

The US State Department asserted diplomatic immunity on Anne Sacoolas and she was able to leave Britain just 19 days after the fatal collision that killed the teenager

Foreign diplomats owe nearly 150m in London congestion charge debt Foreign diplomats in London now owe nearly 150million in congestion charge debt, new figures have shown. Since the introduction of the capital's congestion charge in 2003, diplomats have claimed that it is a tax  making them exempt from paying it. But the UK Government disputes this and says there are 'no legal grounds' for embassies to exempt themselves from paying the charge. As of December 2022 the US embassy owes the largest debt, with more than 14million racked up in unpaid charges. It is followed by the Japanese embassy, which has amassed more than 10million in debt. The Office for the High Commissioner for India owes 8.5million, while the Chinese embassy owes nearly 8 million. The Russian embassy owes just under 6 million. Foreign Office minister David Rutley said: 'We consider that there are no legal grounds to exempt diplomatic missions and international organisations from the London congestion charge, which is comparable to a parking fee or toll charge they are required to pay.' Advertisement

In a written statement to Parliament today, Foreign Office minister David Rutley said the 'vast majority' of foreign diplomats and their dependants abide by UK law.

But Mr Rutley listed the alleged serious and significant offences - defined as those which could carry a 12-month jail sentence, as well as drunk-driving - by foreign diplomats or their dependents as reported by police over the three-year period.

Sacoolas was not listed by name but there was a 'causing death by careless driving' allegation attributed to a US diplomat or dependent in the Foreign Office figures.

Other alleged offences in 2019 included an historical claim of 'domestic servitude/modern slavery' by a diplomat or dependent from Saudi Arabia, sexual assault by an Iraqi, and drunk-driving by two people from Oman and Kyrgyzstan.

In 2020, there was an allegation of 'common assault/cruelty to a child' against a Nigerian diplomat or dependent, and a drunk-driving claim against an Indian citizen.

In 2021, drunk-driving allegations were made against two diplomats or dependents from Saudia Arabia and one from Ethiopia.

Last year, a diplomat or dependent from Myanmar faced an allegation of driving without insurance, a Greek citizen was accused of 'common assault/threats to kill', an individual from the Democratic Republic of the Congo was accused of 'fraud by false representation/perverting the course of justice/money laundering', and a US diplomat or dependent was accused of sexual assault.

Mr Rutley wrote: 'We take all allegations of illegal activity seriously. When the police or other law enforcement agency bring instances of alleged criminal conduct to our attention, we ask the relevant foreign government or international organisation to waive immunity where appropriate.

'For the most serious offences, and when a relevant waiver has not been granted, we request the immediate withdrawal of the diplomat or dependant.'

In October last year, Sacoolas pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey, via videolink, to causing Dunn's death by careless driving.

She was later sentenced to eight months in prison, suspended for a year.
A former top civil servant was blasted today for downplaying fears of Chinese spying in Westminster.

Lord McDonald, the former permanent secretary at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, suggested MPs may have overreacted to reports that a former researcher was arrested on suspicion of being a Beijing agent - a charge he denies.

A report by The Times this week also said two potential Conservative candidates to become MPs were dropped by the party after MI5 warned they could be Chinese spies.

But the crossbench peer was criticised after telling the BBC it was a 'legitimate objective' of any foreign power 'to find out what is happening in Westminster'.

He also suggested the UK should have the same rules and standards for China as it has for allies like the United States and France.

Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, who has been sanctioned by Beijing for criticising human rights abuses in China, labelled the remarks 'utterly complacent'.

'China cannot be compared to our allies. It is a regime guilty of genocide of the Uyghur, invasion and militarisation of the South China seas, persecution of democracy campaigners and organ harvesting of religious minorities and threats to invade Taiwan,' he said.

Lord McDonald, the former permanent secretary at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, suggested Parliament may have overreacted to reports that a former researcher was arrested on suspicion of being a Beijing agent

Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, who has been sanctioned by Beijing over his comments on human rights abuses in China, labelled the remarks 'utterly complacent'.

'In light of the threat China now poses to us and our allies, and the naked attempt to interfere in our democratic processes, such comments are sadly only too redolent of the mistaken policy of appeasement of earlier times.'

Lord McDonald was the top civil servant at the FCO under three prime ministers - David Cameron, Theresa May and Boris Johnson - at a time when there was a conscious effort for detente with Beijing.

In May this year he warned that the UK should not 'make an enemy' of China.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme today he said: 'Of course we see that China is active but so are friendly countries, and I do not think we can have one rule for United States and France and Germany and another for China. We have to be consistent in our approach with all embassies.'

It came after it was revealed at the weekend that a former researcher to Tory MPs was held on suspicion of breaching the Official Secrets Act in March. He has since spoken to declare his innocence of any wrongdoing.

Asked whether he was saying MPs had overreacted to the news, Lord McDonald added: 'I think that is a possibility.

'Parliament is essentially an unclassified environment, so it would need to take a deep breath and think what the potential damage, and if it is not great then we can dial down our reaction.'

It is the latest controversial comment by the peer this week. On Monday he sparked calls for the reform of the Civil Service yesterday after he appeared to admit breaking impartiality rules over Brexit.

In an extraordinary revelation, he said he had told staff he voted Remain in the wake of the 2016 referendum to show solidarity with his shell-shocked officials.

Lord McDonald said the move was necessary to 'maintain credibility' in a department which was left 'in mourning' after Britain voted to leave the EU.

He admitted that the Foreign Office's board was 'not entirely comfortable' with his decision to reveal to staff and ministers how he had voted.

His decision appeared to be in breach of the Civil Service code and fuelled concerns that senior officials tried to frustrate Brexit.

Former Cabinet minister Liam Fox described Sir Simon's comments as 'completely inappropriate'.

China has tried to 'headhunt' British nationals in 'key positions with sensitive knowledge and experience' including from Government and the military, the Government admitted today.

Responding to a highly critical report into its efforts to stem the spread of China's power in the UK, the Government said some of the Communist regime's actions 'crosses the line from influence to interference.'

Easier this year the all-party Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) warned Britain faces a 'nightmare scenario' of China controlling our nuclear power stations, universities and technology sector.

It accused the Government of responding at a 'glacial pace' to the issues.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak today insisted he was 'clear-eyed about that challenge' posed by the autocratic Asian giant. But in its response to the report, the Government insisted it would seek a 'positive trade and investment relationship' with the economic superpower where it could.
A police officer has been captured on camera clinging to the hood of his patrol car on a flooded highway in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul.

The dramatic footage shows Federal Highway Police agent Caio Viegas stepping out of the vehicle after he spotted water slowly flowing down the road while his partner remained inside on Wednesday.

Viegas recalled turning around when a dam located on the banks of highway BR-116 suddenly broke and sent water surging down the road in the city of Camaqua.

The shocked officer noticed water and mud rushing towards him and made a beeline for the car.

Footage shows a police officer hanging on to the hood of his car as it was being dragged down a flooded highway moments after a dam wall broke in Camaqua, Brazil

Police officer Caio Viegas said he had remove some of his equipment in order not to drown as he was being swept away by flood waters on a Brazilian highway

For a moment, Viegas was briefly swept down the highway and away from the car thinking he was going to die.

The quick-thinking cop somehow removed some of the equipment that he was carrying.

He fortunately managed to climb on top of the vehicle when it floated closer to him.

'It was very complicated; we think a lot. But the main thing, we think about (is) staying alive,' Viegas told G1.

'I managed to unequip myself, take some of the weight off the equipment, so as not to drown.'

Viegas is seen holding on to the hood of his car as it was carried down a highway on Wednesday in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul

The wall of dam broke causing water to flood a highway in the Camaqua, a city in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul on Wednesday. No casualties were reported

Viegas and his patrol partner were not harmed in the incident. No casualties were reported.

The heavy rain was part of a storm that hit Rio Grande do Sul on Tuesday as a second extratropical cyclone formed along the coast, according to the National Institute of Meteorology.

An extratropical cyclone made landfall in Rio Grande do Sul last week and left 47 people dead.

At least nine people are still missing, according to authorities. The storm left 4,794 people homeless and displaced 20,517 residents in 100 cities
The parents of Kaylee Goncalves claim their daughter was 'trapped' by the body of her best friend as she tried to escape their killer.

Steve Goncalves said that his daughter was stuck in her bedroom because of the property layout in Moscow, Idaho, on the night she was murdered.

Kaylee, 21, was killed alongside her best friend Maddie Mogen, 21, housemate Xana Kernodle, 20, and Kernodle's boyfriend, Ethan Chapin, 20, on 13 November 2022.

Both Kaylee and Maddie were sleeping in the same bed the night of the murders, with Kaylee's parents claiming they have evidence showing she 'tried to get out of the situation', before being killed.

Bryan Kohberger, 28, has been charged with the murders of the four University of Idaho students, with Steve revealing that Maddie was likely the first to die.

He believes Kaylee was stuck between her friend's body and the wall before the assailant attacked her, citing the coroner's report.

Both Kaylee (left) and Maddie (right) were sleeping in the same bed the night of the murders, with Kaylee's parents claiming they have evidence showing she 'tried to get out of the situation'

He believes Kaylee was stuck between her friend's body and the wall before the assailant attacked her, citing the coroner's report

Speaking to CBS News' Peter Van Sant, he said: 'There's evidence to show that she awakened and tried to get out of that situation, [but] she was assaulted and stabbed.

'The bed was up against the wall. The headboard was touching the wall and the left side of the bed was touching the wall.

'And we believe that Maddie was on the outside and Kaylee was on the inside. The way the bed was set up[Kaylee] was trapped.'

Kaylee's mother, Kristi, said that she thinks the killer's plan 'went awry', adding that he 'intended to kill one and killed four'.

Their comments come after Kohberger waived his right to a speedy trial, pushing back the court case until at least next year.

He refused to answer when asked for his plea, so a judge entered a not guilty indication on his behalf. His legal team denies the allegations against him.

Family members of the victims spoke with Van Sant in 'The Night of the Idaho Murders,' with Xana's sister Jazzmin opening up for the first time.

'I don't know why [the murders] happened,' she said. 'I wish we knew. They were, all four of them were, just such great people and made such an impact on the lives around them.'

Where the bodies were found. Ethan and Xana were discovered murdered on the King Road house's second floor, while Kaylee and Madison shared a bed on the third floor

Bryan Kohberger , 28, has been charged with the murders of the four University of Idaho students in November last year

Xana Kernodle's family say they believe that the student 'fought back' against her attacker in the new interview

Victims (L-R) Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen (on Kaylee's shoulders) Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle

Steve said: 'We're not going to just sit back and cross our fingers and pray we're going to get justice'

Xana's father said that he believes his daughter fought back against her killer, adding, 'It's upsetting to think about'.

The Goncalves family believes that alleged killer Kohberger made several scouting trips to the property on Kings Road.

'He had to know when people were coming, people going,' says Steve.

A police affidavit states that Kohberger visited the property on at least 12 occasions prior to the killings.

The Goncalves family have been undertaking their own investigation and were regularly speaking out before a gag order was put in place.

The family say the probe revealed that Kohberger was following both Kaylee and Maddie on Instagram, adding that it 'appeared to be' his real account.

Steve said: 'We're not going to just sit back and cross our fingers and pray we're going to get justice.'

His wife said that she believes Kohberger is responsible for the slayings, adding: 'He's going to feel all of us just staring at the back of his head. And he knows what he did to our daughter.'

The murder house in Moscow, Idaho. Slain housemates Kaylee Goncalves and Madison Mogen were found on the top floor in their beds. College lovers Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle were found in a second floor bedroom while survivors Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke were sleeping on the first floor

A floor plan of the top floor shows the master bedroom where Kaylee slept, next door to a second bedroom where Madison was sleeping when they were slaughtered

The floor layout shows that the murderer would have taken a winding route through the kitchen, the foyer and into the living room

But Kohberger's defense team says that there is 'no connection' between him and any of the victims, rubbishing the social media claims.

The gag order means that any information about the case is scant, but legal filings have revealed the alleged killer's lawyers are questioning the genealogy used to arrest him.

His team has also argued that the alleged footage of his Hyundai Elantra was misidentified.

Legal experts have begun to question if the case is open-and-shut as it first appeared when Kohberger was arrested.

Bryanna Fox, a professor of criminology at the University of South Florida and a former FBI special agent, said she doesn't think it's a 'slam dunk.'

'It seems that the defense is alleging there was a rush to judgment, law enforcement made an arrest too fast, and they focused on their client too quickly,' she explained.

Kohberger was arrested at his parents Pennsylvania home in late December, almost two months after the quadruple murder.

Prosecutors arrested him after finding his DNA on the button of a knife sheath, which was discovered under the body of Maddie Mogen.

His team has claimed that the DNA was 'planted' by law enforcement, and has claimed in legal filings that his alibi is that he was 'driving around' at the time of the killings.

Police reported that two of the victims likely fought back and suffered defensive wounds trying to ward off the slasher

Kohberger enters a courtroom to appear at a hearing in Latah County District Court Wednesday

Judge John Judge presided over a hearing Wednesday where a coalition of media members alongside the prosecution lobbied to have the trial photographed, televised and even live-streamed

Kohberger's lawyers have accused the FBI of interfering with the genetic expert at his trial by allegedly interrogating her at home.

Anne Taylor said genetic genealogy expert Gabriella Vargas, who recently spoke in court about DNA matching, had been harassed by the FBI shortly after she took the stand.

Taylor also expressed the intention to file a motion in regards to 'what happens to witnesses after they testify in court'.

Latah County prosecutor Bill Thompson responded in court that he contacted the FBI to investigate after Vargas questioned parts of her own testimony.

Prosecutors confirmed that they are seeking the death penalty in his case, which could mean he dies by firing squad.

He remains in custody, with defense attorneys for Kohberger lobbying the court to have cameras removed from the courtroom.

Judge John Judge presided over a hearing where a coalition of media members alongside the prosecution lobbied to have the trial photographed, televised and even live-streamed.

The judge said the media has 'pushed the envelope' with its coverage of the case and questioned whether the media has a right to 'intervene' in the trial.

He dismissed the hearing without making a definitive ruling on whether the trial would have cameras.
A Missouri pastor has resigned from his local school board after he claimed that children with autism are possessed by a 'demon,' because 'God doesn't make mess ups.'

Pastor Rick Morrow of the Beulah Church in Richland sparked massive backlash in the community after saying autism can be cured by casting a demon out during a livestreamed sermon.

'Well, either the devil has attacked [children with autism], he's brought this infirmity upon them, he's got them, or God doesn't like them that much, and he made them that way...my God doesn't make junk,' Morrow said during his September 6 sermon.

'Quit putting a Band-Aid on it and saying, "Oh, it'll be okay. We just need to treat this or treat that."

'How about you just cast the demon out and then treat all the problems?'

Pastor Rick Morrow of the Beulah Church in Richland sparked massive backlash in the community after saying autism can be cured by casting a demon out

'My God doesn't make junk,' Morrow said during his sermon on September 6

Morrow's comments were slammed by the families of children with autism, prompting his resignation from the Stoutland School Board.

But the pastor stood by his comments in an interview with KY3, repeating that autism is caused by demons.

He claimed: 'Yes, either in or around on, somehow it's affecting,... And when I say a demon, you people want to, like I said, they want to get that Hollywood description of what a demon is this nasty, so ugly and, and that's not the case, it's just an evil presence. It's just the presence of evil.'

He also explained his comments regarding 'junk.'

'By junk, I meant autism, that condition, the illness or the neurodivergence,' he explained.

'All of us have issues; all of us have problems. All of us have conditions. All of us have sicknesses and diseases and illnesses. And I just refuse to blame God for those things.'

Marrow argued he knows a minister 'who has seen lots of kids that are autistic, that he cast that demon out, and they were healed, and then he had to pray and their brain was rewired and they were fixed.'

The Stoutland School district said in a statement: 'The District is aware that a member of the Board of Education, in a setting and capacity outside of his board member role, made comments that have been interpreted as derogatory toward individuals with certain disabilities.

'One member of the Board of Education does not speak for the Board of Education as a whole, nor the District itself.'

Social media users were quick to slam Morrow's comments, and have flooded his Facebook with negative comments.

One comment read: 'You don't have a degree in theology, or medicine, do you?'

Another added: 'what the heck is wrong with you? it's people like you who drive people far far away from Christianity. Your day will come and you should fear that.'

A third echoed: 'You are the reason many people are leaving the church.'

Morrow told his church on Sunday that children with autism aren't junk but the disease is.

'I have been told that autism is a blessing from God. I have been told that I'm the evil one,' Morrow said, according to the Kansas City Star. '

'But you know what? If I was to stand up here and say cancer is junk, people would agree. If I were to stand up here and say addiction is junk, people would agree.'
No arrests have been made in the incident, according to police

The attack happened at a McDonald's in Harbor City on September 6

Kassidy Jones was eating with her friends when a woman allegedly attacked her

Video shows the moment a 13-year-old girl was brutally beaten inside an LA area McDonald's and left with a swollen and bruised face.

The incident occurred in LA's Harbor City neighborhood on September 6 and took place as Kassidy Jones and her friends had stopped in for food after school.

Talking to FOX LA with bruised eyes, Kassidy said a woman cornered her and her friends, hurling threatening words before attacking her inside the restaurant.

'What the F are y'all looking at? I fight kids. I fight you,' Kassidy recalled, telling the outlet what the woman said to her just moments before the beating.

Video shows the woman throwing punches and beating the young girl as she attempts to fight back until a man ultimately steps in and stops the assault.

As of September 14, no arrests have been made in the incident.

Kassidy Jones, 13, was attacked inside a Los Angeles area McDonald's on September 6

Shocking video showed the attack which involved an unidentified woman pulling the teen girl by her hair and punching her repeatedly in the face

During the interview, the young girl had to be comforted by her mother as she sat there sobbing while remembering the attack.

The video shows the older woman tossing Kassidy around like a rag doll inside the restaurant as several other people stand around watching.

The woman yanks on the teen's hair as Kassidy attempts to punch and push her way out of the woman's grasp to no avail.

'I was focused on protecting myself because I knew the moment I put my hands down was the moment I was probably going to get beat to death,' Kassidy said.

The two ended up on the ground as the woman pins down the young girl with her leg and whales on her as the crowd gathers.

'I'm shocked because like, I didn't do anything, I don't know you,' Kassidy said.

'You're coming at me very aggressive for no reason,' she continued.

Several individuals can be seen recording the assault throughout the video.

With the exception of one man who appeared to be with the suspect, no one intervened or attempted to pull the adult woman off the child.

The woman who attacked Kassidy eventually grabbed her meal and left the restaurant.

Kassidy said she and her friends did not know the woman and could not point to a reason for the attack.

The video shows the moment that the girl is pulled to the ground by her hair

Kassidy appears with bruised eyes during her interview with FOX LA

The young girl called her mom, Angelina Gray, from the restaurant and sent the mother into a panic.

'When she called me she was screaming and hollering and I'm standing there like, oh my God, I don't know what to do,' Gray said.

The girl was rushed to the hospital by her mom, who said she was shocked that someone would do this to a child.

'I just couldn't believe another human being would do this,' said Gray. 'You just do not do this. I mean, this is a 13-year-old.'

Others online agreed with the mom and said they couldn't believe the patrons in the restaurant did not attempt to help the girl who was clearly in need.

'I'm not just upset with the woman beating her but with the bystanders as well.'

'People care more about getting a video to put on Instagram & YouTube than they do helping a 13 year old girl. SO ANGRY AND DISGUSTED!'

'I feel bad for the young girl getting attacked. Hope she heals quickly! What concerns me is why did all the kids take videos instead of helping her? Kudos to the man that stepped in to help.'

'I just couldn't believe another human being would do this,' said Angelina Gray, Kassidy's mother. 'You just do not do this. I mean, this is a 13-year-old'

As of September 14, no arrests have been made in the case.

'Personally, [I think] she needs to go to jail,' Kassidy said through tears.

DailyMail.com reached out to McDonald's and the Los Angeles Police Department for comment but did not receive a response by the time of publication.
Cornwall Council has agreed to sell Grade II listed flats worth 640,000 for 1 to block second homeowners and ensure affordable housing for locals.

The council's cabinet approved a recommendation to release the 11 Coastguard Flats on North Road in Looe to a community land trust to avoid costly maintenance.

Three Seas Community Land Trust offered to carry out a 1million refurbishment through grant funding.

Councillors said the deal meant it would remain as affordable housing in the picturesque fishing village, which has a population of 5,280 people.

Second home ownership and holiday lets are blamed for a shortage of affordable housing in the county.

The council's cabinet approved a recommendation to release the 11 Coastguard Flats in Looe to a community land trust to avoid costly maintenance

In January, Cornwall Council approved plans to charge owners of second homes in the picturesque county double council tax in a bid to clamp down on the rising cost of rent driven up by a falling housing stock.

According to the council's database, there were 13,292 second homes registered in the county - many of which are left empty during off-peak holiday seasons. Meanwhile, the waiting list on the the social housing register has more than doubled over the last three years, according to the Big Issue.

In May last year, the Government published the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill and subject to it being passed, the 100 per cent council tax premium on second homes could be enforced by April 2025.

This could raise an estimated 25m per year for the local authority, which Councillor David Harris, deputy leader of Cornwall Council, said would support council services.

On the sale of the 11 Coastguard flats, Mr Harris said: 'This will retain much-needed affordable housing provision in Looe.'

He said an open market sale would likely have resulted in 'the loss of affordable housing provision', impacting negatively on the housing service by 'increasing demand for temporary accommodation'.

He added: 'A community-led redevelopment scheme would ensure the flats would still be used for affordable housing provision.'

Councillors said the deal meant it would remain as affordable housing in the picturesque fishing village, which has a population of 5,280

The council's cabinet approved a recommendation to release the 11 Coastguard Flats on North Road in Looe

Refurbishment of the building was deemed 'financially unviable' by Cornwall Housing in 2021.

The building was declared surplus to the council's needs.

According to Three Seas Community Land Trust, who are being the 'big idea', most of the small one-bed flats are empty, and Cornwall Council isn't able to repair them.

On the Trusts' website, it said: 'They could have been sold at auction, for second homes.

'We want to create a community trust for Looe to buy and refurbish the flats, then let them at low rents to local people'.

In May last year, the Government published the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill and subject to it being passed, second home owners could face a 100 per cent council tax premium

With support from Looe councillors Edwina Hannaford and Armand Toms, Three Seas Community Land Trust stepped in with an offer to carry out a full refurbishment of the properties at a cost of over 1million, to be achieved by grant funding.

The cabinet meeting heard the project would be hard to achieve without grant funding, which is available from Homes England, which supports the project.

Councillor Hannaford said: 'Providing secure affordable housing is incredibly important for the people of Looe. The lack of affordable housing in Looe is a real emergency, replicated across Cornwall.'

This comes as a local authority in Wales moved ahead with its plans to home-owners to acquire planning permission for second homes or short-term holiday lets.

In August, Cyngor Gwynedd council announced that properties previously used as second homes will now be eligible for a first-time buyer's grant to renovate empty houses in a bid to help local people get onto the property ladder.

According to the council's database, there were 13,292 second homes registered in the county - many of which are left empty during off-peak holiday seasons

The council declared that almost 10 per cent of all houses in the county are second homes, which some areas in Gwynedd, the figure is significantly higher, such as Aberdyfi (43 per cent), Trawsfynydd (42 per cent) and Llanengan (39.8 per cent).

However, the controversial housing scheme has faced criticism after North Wales Tourism accused the council of 'anti-tourism' policies and a north Wales Senedd Member described the plans as 'barmy'.

Councillor Craig ab Iago, Cyngor Gwynedd Cabinet Member for Housing and Property said: 'While many people in Gwynedd can't buy their first home, hundreds of houses in Gwynedd are in the hands of owners who already have another home.

'Very often second homes are empty for long periods of the year, and many are in poor condition.

'Furthermore, 65.5 per cent of Gwynedd's population has been priced out of the housing market, and the number is as high as 96 per cent in areas with many holiday homes'.

In April, Leveling-Up Secretary Michael Gove said local people were being 'pushed out of cherished towns, cities and villages by huge numbers of short-term let'

'Adapting the grant eligibility to include former second homes makes perfect sense and is another way we can assist the residents of Gwynedd in taking the first step to buying a home locally.

Gwynedd's council has already enforced a 150 per cent council tax premium on second home owners.

In Devon, holiday home rental company Airbnb was blamed for the 50 per cent fall in private lettings with more properties switching from long-term to short-term lets

The Devon Housing Commission (DHC) called for measures to curb short-term lets with regulations that include the introduction of a host register.

According to BBC News, evidence from the University of Exeter suggested an increase of more than 10 per cent in second homes across Devon since 2021, with one in 11 homes in South Hams being either second, holiday or empty homes.

An Airbnb spokesperson told BBC News: 'Airbnb welcomes regulation and has long-led calls for the introduction of a Host register to give authorities the information they need.

'The typical UK host rents their space for just three nights a month, and we want to work with policymakers to support everyday Hosts and clampdown on speculators that drive local concerns.'

In April, Leveling-Up Secretary Michael Gove said: 'Tourism brings many benefits to our economy but in too many communities we have seen local people pushed out of cherished towns, cities and villages by huge numbers of short-term lets.

'I'm determined that we ensure that more people have access to local homes at affordable prices, and that we prioritise families desperate to rent or buy a home of their own close to where they work.'
Republicans are escalating their COVID origins investigation, demanding that the Biden administration and other key players comply with their requests or else face being subpoenaed.

The ramp up of their investigation comes the same week that a CIA whistleblower told Congress the agency bribed its own analysts to say COVID-19 did not originate in a Wuhan lab.

In a letter sent Thursday to HHS Sec. Xavier Becerra first obtained by DailyMail.com, the Republicans write they 'expect full and timely compliance' with their requests, which have gone unanswered since they launched the probe in February.

They are demanding documents between HHS and EcoHealth Alliance and the Wuhan Institute of Virology - which were given U.S. taxpayer-funded grants to study bat coronaviruses through risky gain-of-function research.

They also want details on a series of conference calls and communications between top HHS officials and medical professionals, organizations and others regarding the origins of COVID.

The lawmakers also sent similar letters to individuals they say have 'in-depth knowledge' of COVID origins, including Dr. Anthony Fauci's former chief of staff Greg Folkers, EcoHealth Alliance President Dr. Peter Daszak, and Gray Handley, who was the liaison between the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and the Chinese.

A CIA whistleblower recently told Congress that the agency bribed its own analysts to say Covid-19 did not originate in a Wuhan lab, according to two Republicans

They threaten to slap the agencies and the individuals with subpoenas if they do not comply.

The top Republican chairmen who signed the letters Thursday include: Brad Wenstrup, James Comer, Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Morgan Griffith and Brett Guthrie.

According to a veteran 'senior-level' serving agency officer, the CIA assigned seven officers to a Covid Discovery Team.

At the end of their investigation six of the seven believed the intelligence pointed to a low-confidence assessment that Covid-19 originated in a lab in Wuhan, China.

The seventh member, the most senior on the team, believed it evolved naturally. The other six were then given a 'significant monetary incentive to change their position,' according to the whistleblower.

The CIA ultimately refused to make an assessment even with low confidence.

'Both hypotheses rely on significant assumptions or face challenges with conflicting reporting,' according to the agency.

The CIA denied engaging in bribery and said it would investigate the allegations.

Republican congressmen Mike Turner and Brad Wenstrup, both from Ohio, who lead the Intelligence and Covid committees respectively, wrote a letter to CIA Director William Burns on Tuesday demanding all documents on the matter.

The lawmakers set a September 26 deadline for the CIA to turn over all records involving the COVID Discovery Team and all communications with the FBI, State Department, Health and Human Services and Energy Department about the matter.

The Department of Energy, which oversees biological research labs in the U.S., concluded with 'low confidence' in February of this year that the virus most likely came from a lab in Wuhan. The FBI concluded the same with moderate confidence.

Five other intelligence bodies concluded that natural transmission - the theory the virus jumped from an animal to a human host - more likely.

U.S. officials have remained frustrated with China's stonewalling of their own efforts to get to the bottom of the virus' origins.

Researchers conducting work at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in 2017

Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic Chairman Brad Wenstrup

Now they may never definitively conclude where it all started - authorities in China destroyed some virus samples and used up others in research, U.S. officials say.

The Office of the Director of National Intelligence released a declassified report in June that laid out their inconclusive findings.

'All agencies continue to assess that both a natural and laboratory-associated origin remain plausible hypotheses to explain the first human infection,' the report said.

As of this month around seven million people have died since the virus tore across the globe beginning in 2020.
Joe Biden begged Hunter to get help in a voicemail on October 15, 2018, days after his son allegedly lied on the gun application

The indictment comes days after Republicans opened an impeachment inquiry into President Biden for his alleged connections to Hunter's business dealings

According to the indictment brought by Special Counsel David Weiss, Hunter lied about his drug use when he purchased a gun in 2018

Hunter Biden faces up to 25 years in prison after being indicted on three felony charges for lying about his crack cocaine addiction when buying a gun.

In a sensational development, the First Son will have to appear in court after a Delaware grand jury returned three charges against him, including two counts of false statements on his gun forms, and one of possessing a firearm while addicted to illicit drugs.

The White House is not commenting on the new felony charges for the president's son, and Biden joked he would get in 'trouble' if he answered press questions at the end of an economics speech later Thursday.

It is a shattering blow for President Joe Biden who has stood by his son and is running for reelection in 2024.

The move by Special Counsel Davis Weiss is a significant escalation in his investigation into the president's son for gun and tax crimes, which is still ongoing.

It also comes the same week that Republicans in the House opened a formal impeachment inquiry into President Biden for his alleged connections to Hunter's business dealings and is likely to have a long-term impact on his political career.

Republicans allege that Hunter is guilty of even more felonies and that Weiss' indictment on just the gun charges is insufficient.

Biden joked he would get in 'trouble' if he answered press questions at the end of an economics speech later Thursday in Maryland

President Biden's son Hunter was indicted by Special Counsel David Weiss on federal felony gun charges Thursday

Hunter allegedly lied on a firearm report (above) required for his gun transaction. A photo of the form shows he answered 'no' when asked if he was an 'unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance'

The maximum time in prison would be 25 years total if he is convicted on all of the counts, although federal sentences are usually less than the maximum. Hunter could also be slapped with a max $250,000 fine and three years probation.

According to the indictment, Hunter lied about his drug use when he purchased a gun in 2018.

The First Son purchased a 0.38 Colt Cobra caliber pistol in Delaware, a state that makes any buyer answer a series of questions before they can lay their hands on a weapon.

One from the 2018 application asks if the applicant uses or is addicted to drugs. The box is clearly checked 'no.'

Hunter has admitted that he was addicted to crack cocaine at the time of the gun purchase.

Video discovered on Hunter's laptop computer shows him naked and brandishing a handgun in a hotel room in 2018, allegedly five days after buying the gun.

About two weeks later his lover and brother's widow Hallie Biden found it 'unlocked' in his truck and threw it in a grocery store trash can. Its discovery sparked a police investigation.

In addition, now-President Biden sounded close to tears in the voicemail left on Hunter's abandoned laptop on October 15 - three days after Hunter bought the gun and lied about being a drug addict - begging him to get help.

'It's Dad. I called to tell you I love you. I love you more than the whole world pal,' Joe said in the October 15 message. 'You gotta get some help. I know you don't know what to do, I don't either.'

On July 27, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre ruled out President Biden issuing a pardon for Hunter. But it remains to be seen if the White House's posture has changed now that Hunter faces the three new felony charges.

Republicans are insisting that Joe's son is guilty of even more felonies and that Weiss' indictment on gun charges should just be the tip of the spear.

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., who is leading an investigation into the Biden family's business dealings, reacted to the indictment saying the charges are a 'very small start.'

'Unless U.S. Attorney Weiss investigates everyone involved in the fraud schemes and influence peddling, it will be clear President Biden's DOJ is protecting Hunter Biden and the big guy,' he continued.

'Ironically, that's the one crime that he committed that you cannot tie Joe Biden to,' added Comer.

Republican firebrand Rep. Matt Gaetz said in reaction: 'Getting Hunter on the gun charge is like getting Jeffrey Dahmer on littering.'

The White House is referring inquiries on the new charges to the Justice Department, saying that it is an independent investigation.

Earlier this summer, the president's son had reached a deal after the five-year investigation that would have allowed him to avoid trial for the firearms charges if he abided by parole conditions over 24 months.

Republicans in Washington complained that the president's son had gotten himself a 'sweetheart deal' designed to protect President Biden.

However, the plea deal spectacularly fell apart in court in July, opening Hunter up to new charges.

Judge Maryellen Noreika questioned the 'diversion agreement' of Hunter's plea deal - a clause that gave him blanket immunity for a wide range of other potential charges, including illegal foreign lobbying - killing the deal.

In August, Attorney General Merrick Garland elevated Weiss to special counsel status after increased scrutiny.

Garland's decision to promote Weiss came after IRS whistleblower allegations that Hunter received 'special treatment' during the criminal probe.

IRS agents Joe Ziegler and Gary Shapley testified under oath to House Republicans that their investigation into the president's son 'supported felony and misdemeanor tax charges,' which were ultimately not brought against Hunter due to political pressures.

Weiss tried to bring felony charges against him in Washington, D.C., they said, but was blocked by the district's top federal prosecutor Matthew Graves, a Biden appointee.

The 'special treatment' for Hunter became a pattern that kept happening, said the whistleblowers, who were told they would get in 'hot water' if they tried to speak with President Joe Biden's adult children and grandchildren over the course of their investigation.

Shapley also shared handwritten notes from a meeting from October 2022 in which he quoted Weiss saying he was 'not the deciding person' on charging Hunter Biden with tax crimes, raising questions about potential improper handling of the case by DOJ.

The collapse of Hunter Biden's original plea deal also presented more problems for his father, Joe Biden. The president is now facing more headlines and questions involving his drug-addict son's case as he hits the 2024 campaign trail.

The White House and the president himself have maintained that he has never been involved in Hunter's business dealings.

But Republicans are well into their own investigation looking into Hunter's foreign business dealings.

As part of their probe, they spoke with Hunter's ex-business partner Devon Archer, who testified that President Biden was in fact aware of his son's dealings and sat in on at least 20 calls and multiple dinners with his son's business partners.

Additionally, they have uncovered over a dozen shell companies that Hunter and at least 12 members of the Biden family used to funnel in foreign money.

Joe Biden also used various private email addresses from which he would sometimes send, receive and forward government correspondence according to emails found on Hunter Biden's now-infamous laptop.

'Robin Ware,' 'Robert L. Peters' and 'JRB ware' were three pseudonyms used on emails that were about both official and family business.

As a result, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy launched an impeachment inquiry into President Biden earlier this week over his alleged connections to Hunter's multi-million dollar foreign 'influence peddling scheme.'

A picture from Hunter Biden's laptop showed the now 53-year-old first son posing nude with a firearm

Hunter Biden is seen in a picture discovered on his abandoned laptop

'House Republicans have uncovered serious and credible allegations into President Biden's conduct,' McCarthy said, speaking at the Capitol on Tuesday. 'Taken together these allegations paint a picture of a culture of corruption.

'These are allegations of abuse of power, obstruction and corruption. And they warrant further investigation by the House of Representatives. That's why today I am directing our House committee to open a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden,' he noted.

'This logical next step will give our committees, the full power to gather all the facts and answers for the American public. That's exactly what we want to know the answers.'

An inquiry is the first step in the impeachment process. It is when evidence is gathered for the articles, or charges, of impeachment against an official.
YouTuber Ruby Franke secretly separated from her husband Kevin 13 months ago over 'a difference of opinion about their parenting' before her child abuse arrest.

Ruby, 41, was charged with six counts of felony child abuse after her 12-year-old son was found with open wounds and duct tape on his limbs.

She was arrested along with business partner Jodi Hildebrandt on August 30 on aggravated child abuse charges.

Kevin's attorney, Randy Kester, claimed that the 44-year-old father didn't see his children and wasn't aware that Ruby had moved them to Ivans, Utah, about four hours from Salt Lake City, Law & Crime reported.

Kester claimed that Ruby had been 'controlling Kevin emotionally because she knew how much he valued their marriage.'

YouTuber Ruby Franke secretly separated from her husband Kevin 13 months ago over 'a difference of opinion about their parenting' before her child abuse arrest

The 41-year-old was charged with six counts of felony child abuse after her 12-year-old son was found with open wounds and duct tape on his limbs

'It was his desire to be able to get back with the family and preserve his marriage,' Kester told the outlet.

'Kevin never had any reason to believe that his children were being abused.'

Speaking to Page Six, Kester said he couldn't comment on the marriage as he didn't represent Ruby but confirmed the pair were still legally married.

The Utah-based attorney also claimed that their marriage began to fall apart after Ruby started working with Hildebrandt.

'[He says] she manipulated him in conjunction with Ruby, that she's kind of the spearhead toward essentially destroying his life and destroying his family,' Kester shared.

In her first public appearance last Friday Ruby (pictured) was a contrast to her picture perfect social media presence as she learnt that she and her partner would remain behind bars without bail

Kevin is working to regain custody of his minor children who remain in the custody of the state.

Ruby and Hildebrandt were arrested on two counts of aggravated child abuse in late August and have since been slapped with an additional four counts after being locked up.

In her first public appearance last Friday, Ruby was a contrast to her picture perfect social media presence as she learnt that she and her partner would remain behind bars without bail.

Speaking exclusively to DailyMail.com, Ruby's family revealed that they hope she'll be 'put away forever' while distancing themselves from their estranged relative.

Ruby's sisters-in-laws Cynthia and Jennifer Franke said they believe the abuse allegations against the mother-of-six adding that they were 'shocked' and 'sickened.'

During a court appearance last week Ruby made astonishing claims that one of her minor children sexually abused one of their siblings and other children.

'I don't know what to believe from her. I think she's lying,' Cynthia said.

'She's putting the blame on her two kids to validate what she did to her children. At this point I think she'll say anything to save herself.'

Kevin (pictured) is working to regain custody of his minor children who remain in the custody of the state

Cynthia, who is the wife of Ruby's husband Kevin's older brother Alan, said: 'we had no idea what was going on in the family.'

Jennifer Franke, 42, who is married to Kevin's brother Aaron, said: 'Ruby isn't really my cup of tea. I've never really liked her from day one. She always thought she was better than anyone she's around.'

'If you look up narcissist in the dictionary, there will be a picture of Ruby.'

Jennifer wanted to make it clear that her family is 'not affiliated' with Ruby, adding that they have gotten a lot of hate since the arrest.

'None of us Frankes knew about any of the abuse,' she said, adding that she hasn't seen Ruby or Kevin in about a decade.

Jennifer added that the rest of the Frankes looked down on Ruby for starting her popular YouTube channel 8 Passengers.

Ruby and Hildebrandt have both been previously criticized for their teachings on parenting  collaborating on Hildebrandt's life counseling service ConneXions.

Jennifer said the family heard that Jodi moved into the Franke family house between 2021 and 2022.

She said she heard at some point, Ruby and Kevin started to go to Jodi and her company for marriage counseling.

'It was cult. Kevin was in a men's group at ConneXions, he had a checklist of what he needed to do to be better and if you did they would praise you and if you didn't they would chastise you,' she said.

'When Jodi moved into the family's Springville marital home, one of the first things she did was separate Ruby and Kevin, it was almost like the movie War of the Roses.

Speaking exclusively to DailyMail.com, Ruby's sisters-in-law Cynthia (left) and Jennifer Franke (right) say she's lying and 'saying anything to save herself'

'Ruby was living on one side of the house and Kevin was living on the other. Kevin couldn't talk to Ruby unless Jodi was present.'

Kevin moved out last July 2022. He lived in a townhouse near the family home where he had a minder from ConneXions that would stay with him at the townhouse and watch over him.

Jennifer said that Ruby and Kevin's oldest child Shari, 20, came to her and said she wasn't allowed to speak to her father.

'Shari told us that Kevin was kicked out last July 2022, at the time we never knew about Jodi and the influence she would have on the family.

'At the time Shari told us, 'My dad wont talk to me. He wouldn't take phone calls answer emails etc.''

She continued telling Jennifer, 'My dad thinks he's a horrible person, they (Ruby and Jodi) have him brainwashed believing he is a bad person.'

'Shari tried contacting her father after he moved out, but he blocked everyone on social media, his cell phone, email.

'I feel bad for Kevin, he's like almost brainwashed. I feel sorry for him.'

'I've known Kevin since he was 11-years old, he's a good guy. Ruby and Jodi brainwashed him into moving out and abandoning his family.

'After Ruby was arrested my husband called Kevin and told him if he needed anything to let him know. Kevin responded by saying, ''gaslighting is real. This is messed up.''

'In some ways I think Kevin to an extent is also a victim, he was always the more nurturing one in the relationship.

'I keep asking myself, why didn't Kevin go back for his children. I have to believe none of us know the entire story.'

Ruby first rose to fame for her strict parenting style which blew up online and made her 'millions' of dollars, she claimed.

Ruby Franke's Springville, Utah, home is pictured . 'Ruby was living on one side of the house and Kevin was living on the other. Kevin couldn't talk to Ruby unless Jodi was present,' Ruby's sister-in-law said

Ruby (left), who ran the now-defunct 8 Passengers channel, was arrested along with her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt (right) on August 30

She racked up more than 2.2million subscribers for documenting their day-to-day endeavors on social media, along with husband Kevin.

The pair stopped uploading videos in January 2022 and the 8 Passengers page was taken down completely from the website earlier this year.

When asked why she left YouTube behind - months later she said she opted to stop uploading videos because she wanted to 'save her kids.'

In July, she was called out online after video surfaced of her allowing her daughter to go hungry after the young girl had forgotten to make her own lunch before school.

In a video posted in 2020, Ruby said her daughter's teacher had texted her, telling her that the youngster didn't have anything to eat for lunch.

She said all her kids are responsible for preparing their own lunches in the morning, so she would not be dropping off any food for her daughter to teach her a lesson.

Ruby said: 'My hope [is that] she will be hungry and come home and be like 'that was really painful being hungry all day I'll make sure to always have a lunch with me.''

'The natural outcome is that she is just going to have to go hungry.'

It was this parenting style that helped the women gain notoriety and a massive following on YouTube.
A New York City mother who was employed at Trader Joe's is suing the chain for allegedly forcing her to pump breastmilk in a 'dirty, multipurpose mechanical room that lacked a suitable lock'.

Julia Hammer, 42, returned from maternity leave in August 2021 to work at the grocery store's new Long Island City location.

She claims there was nowhere appropriate for her to pump - and that she was ultimately forced to in a dirty mechanical room without a lock.

On one occasion, she claims male colleagues even walked in on her.

'The room was dusty and appeared as though it had not been cleaned in weeks,' Hammer's complaint claims.

Julia Hammer, 42, a former employee at Trader Joe's in Queens is suing the chain for making her pump breast milk in a 'dirty, multipurpose mechanical room that lacked a suitable lock'

'The room (pictured) was dusty and appeared as though it had not been cleaned in weeks,' the complaint says

The mechanical room had no table, no sink or access to running water, and no refrigerator, the lawsuit reads.

She alleges the chain violated the New York City's laws mandating employers to provide lactation rooms - a clean, private space, other than a restroom, that has at least an electrical outlet, a table or counter, and access to running water, under N.Y.C. Administrative Code 8-107(22)

Hammer says her anxiety spiked three months later when her male manager, Anthony Agati, entered the room while she was pumping, even though Hammer had placed a sign on the door saying the room was in use, Hammer claimed in the lawsuit.

Hammer was completely exposed when Agati walked in, the lawsuit says.

She also claims she had to wait over an hour for the room to become available.

In addition to her pumping woes, Hammer claims she was removed from the company's healthcare plan while she was on maternity leave.

She left Trader Joe's in December 2021 and started seeing a therapist around the same time.

Hammer claimed what the company did worsened her anxiety and 'intrusive thoughts.'

'Trader Joes goes to great lengths to make the public believe that it treats its grocery store workers with dignity and respect. Our clients experience was the exact opposite,' Hammer's attorney wrote in a statement to Dailymail.com.

The lawyer said Trader Joe's decision to revoke Julias healthcare coverage 'because she went on maternity leave is especially cruel'.

Trader Joe's has not responded to DailyMail.com's request for comment.
A Minnesota man has been arrested after allegedly holding his girlfriend hostage in her dorm room where he raped, beat and waterboarded her for three days.

Keanu Labatte, 19, was arrested Sunday at St. Catherine's University after his girlfriend, a student there, escaped his torture.

The criminal complaint says the couple had been in a relationship for two months when Labatte came to campus on September 7 to stay over the weekend.

Things took a grave turn when he discovered text messages, pictures and information on social media that 'infuriated' him. That is when he took her phone and began his weekend of brutality.

The victim says she was strangled and sexually assaulted in her dorm room multiple times throughout Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Keanu Labatte, 19, of Granite Falls, Minnesota has been arrested for torturing his girlfriend

St. Catherine University's baccalaureate College for Women is one of the largest private womens universities in the nation

It is unclear what he saw on her phone that ignited the rage, but the criminal complaint says he used both hands around her neck to strangle her and threatened to kill her while calling her a s**t.

She says she felt lightheaded and saw stars while being strangled. Labatte threatened to kill her family and reminded her that he had previously held a knife to the throat of a prior girlfriend.

The St. Catherine's student said she was so terrified to the point that she would lay next to her captor and not move out of fear of what he would do next.

She says the worst of the torture was on Saturday when the waterboarding took place. Labatte filled a bucket, forced her to lay in the bathtub where he put a washcloth on her face and poured water over her.

That same day, when threatening her with the knife, he held her arm and said he was looking for the right vein to cut deep enough so she could not be saved.

She was finally able to leave the dorm room on Sunday when she convinced Labatte she would go to the cafeteria for food. He gave the victim her phone and told her she had to send pictures of where she was so he could keep track of her.

Once out of the dorm, she went to campus security and told them she had been physically and sexually abused by her boyfriend. Campus security then called the police.

While speaking with police, Labatte called the victim repeatedly and she explained to authorities that he was paranoid she was away from the dorm and ready to leave campus.

Based on the observations of the victim's body and her report, a probable cause arrest for domestic assault strangulation and sexual assault was initiated.

Labatte was found in the dorm room and arrested. After being read his rights, Labatte said 'I plead the fifth.'

During a search of the room, police found an orange/black/silver folding knife in the front pocket of a green backpack and a wet red washcloth.

The mattress was found on the floor, which the victim says Labatte moved to prevent others from hearing the bed squeak during the sexual assaults.

Coeur de Catherine is the campus student center, which houses the dining hall

Labatte is facing three counts of criminal sexual conduct, one count domestic assault by strangulation and one count threats of violence.

The Office of the Ramsey County Attorney says his next court hearing is October 9.

Director of Communications for St. Catherine's University, Sarah Voigt, says in a statement, 'It is our policy at St. Catherine University not to issue any comment that would affect student confidentiality or potentially re-traumatize individuals. As this is an ongoing investigation, we do not wish to jeopardize the integrity of the case as it develops.'
Furious American Express platinum credit card holders are threatening a boycott after Delta slashed access to their airport lounges.

The cards - which carry a whopping $695 annual fee - previously bought holders access to the swanky airport lounges.

Yesterday, Delta announced it was slashing access from unlimited visits to six a year - unless they spend $75,000 a year.

Now, many of those who subscribed to the cards for the sole benefit of using the lounges are threatening to cancel them.

Additionally, Delta will undergo a complete overhaul of its Medallion elite status requirements beginning next year.

The $695-a-year American Express platinum card will no longer buy holders unlimited access to Delta lounges

Delta announced the sweeping change that will take place on January 1, 2024

Instead of multiple criteria, there will be a single metric known as Medallion Qualifying Dollars (MQD), with substantially higher thresholds. Adding to the challenge, the MQD waiver provided by popular Delta credit cards will no longer be available.

Currently, Amex Platinum pay a $695 annual fee and Amex Business Platinum pay a $695 annual fee, for unlimited access to Delta Sky Club airport lounges within three hours of departure when flying Delta Air Lines.

Tracking for unlimited lounge access eligibility will commence on February 1, 2024, for the 2025 status year.

Dwight James, Delta's Senior Vice President Customer Engagement and Loyalty, confirmed to CNN that authorized users on these cards will have their own allotment of lounge visits.

An American Express spokesperson stated, 'Based on Card Member data, this number of visits will accommodate the vast majority of Platinum, Business Platinum, and Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card Members,' in a statement to CNN.

These adjustments appear to be a response to overcrowding issues in Delta's airport lounges.

While overcrowding has been observed, these alterations represent a substantial reduction in benefits for four of American Express's premium credit cards, all of which come with annual fees exceeding $500.

Amex platinum card holders expressed their frustrations with the lounge restrictions on social media.

'I saw the new @delta sky miles and lounge access announcement for 2024 and wow. They dont want us on their airline huh? AMEX platinum members will now only get 6 annual visits to the lounge per year. And its 35 bands to get the MQDs for Diamond,' one angry cardholder wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Many customers threatened to change their mile card to another company.

Platinum Medallion AND @Delta SkyMiles Reserve AMEX holder here,' one wrote. 'After yesterdays news of the diminished benefits both will provide, I am going to switch my miles card. Already hard enough to use Delta in DC area, but I had remained loyal.'

Some social media users joked about the disappointing news: 'Delta chose violence and said get your money up.'

'Chase is about to get a ton of Delta Platinum and Amex Platinum customers,' another wrote.
A newly-qualified doctor has claimed that he is paid the same hourly rate as staff at Wetherspoons, but a closer look reveals how their wages actually compare.

Dr Dev Gakhar shared a wage slip to TikTok which showed he is paid 14.08 an hour while working for the NHS - which is the bare minimum for first year doctors. His video was in response to a comment which said they were offered '14 an hour to work at spoons'.

Junior doctors are able to boost their basic salary by opting to work overtime or by taking night and weekend shifts. The are also set to get a wage rise of up to 10.3 per cent after the UK Government agreed to give junior doctors an increase in pay.

Meanwhile, Wetherspoons bar staff receive a basic pay of 10.52 an hour according to its website, which goes up to an average of 11.50 an hour if they work overtime.

, although he may be newly qualified, 'no rank of doctor should have 14 per hour as their starting salary in this day and age'.

An analysis from FullFact last year found that junior doctors' earn closer to 20-30-an-hour when opting to work overtime and take night or weekend shifts.

Dr Dev Gakhar shared the hourly rate he earns as a newly-qualified doctor while working for the NHS by responding to a comment on TikTok by someone who claimed they 'got offered 14 per hour working at Wetherspoons'

In a follow-up video breaking down the wageslip in more detail, Dr Gakhar admitted: 'In terms of gross pay we have my basic pay - so I worked 168 hours this month and was paid a rate of 14.08 an hour, which works out at about 2,300.

'This 14 an hour, after the eight months of junior doctors strikes, has now gone up to about 15.50 which will be reflected in my upcoming paycheque.'

Junior doctors used to earn 29,384 in the first year of foundation training, which they enter after completing their medical degree, which worked out at 14.13 per hour.

READ MORE: More NHS strike misery on the way: Both junior doctors and consultants will hold four days of united industrial action from September Advertisement

But from their October payslip, annual basic pay for first year junior doctors will rise to 32,300  around 15.50 an hour, using the same metric. And their pay rise will be backdated to April.

After around a decade as a junior doctor  during which their pay rises up to 63,000  medics can become consultants, who earn up to 126,000 basic pay for a 40-hour week.

At this point, they can also opt to work extra hours and take on management or education responsibilities to further boost their pay.

Their weekend work can also see them earn a rate between 3% to 10% of their base pay.

Wetherspoons bar staff, on the other hand, who have 20-hour contracts earn around 10.52-an-hour - according to the company's website. They can earn up to 19% of their base pay, but this is usually only delivered quarterly.

Concerned by the potentially low wage rates they could receive as a doctor, one user commented: 'Do you think there will be any positive change in the near future? I want to be a doctor but Im worried about salary and work life'.

Dr Gakhar replied: 'It's working. Ninety-eight per cent of doctors just voted to strike. We increased our pay by 9 per cent on average this year and we are striking for restoration'.

In the 16 days medics have taken to the picket lines, cover for absent staff and making up lost appointments has seen the health service's bills spiral. Junior doctors, seeking a salary hike of 35 per cent, today began their fifth round of strike action this morning in the ongoing dispute, walking out for four days

The British Medical Association (BMA) welcomed a pay offer from the Scottish government last month and is balloting its members on the package north of the border. But Dr Robert Laurenson, co-chair of the BMA's junior doctors committee, today sparked fury by signalling he would not agree the same deal with the 'ideological' Tories in Westminster

Another user said: 'I am [an] admin supervisor and earn 15 an hour. I didn't realise how little [doctors] got paid.'

But others have pointed out that Dr Gakhar is a junior doctor. One commenter said: 'Can't take criticism. He deletes all comments. You're not a qualified doctor. You're a trainee. The same as trainee solicitors.'

The video comes as junior doctors and consultants prepare for four days of crippling joint strike action, starting next week.

British Medical Association (BMA) bosses announced the coordinated walkout will take place in England over separate days in both September and October.

It represents a huge escalation in the long-running dispute between the union and ministers over NHS pay and the first time both consultants and junior doctors will strike together - a first in health service history.

Consultants in England will be striking on September 19 and 20, with junior doctors then joining the strike on September 20.

Junior doctors will then continue the full walkout on September 21 and 22.

Both consultants and junior doctors will then return to the picket lines together from October 2 to 5.

The announcement came after junior doctors renewed their mandate for industrial action for another six months.

More than 700,000 NHS appointments have been cancelled since strikes began seven months ago. In the latest five-day walkout by junior doctors, more than 100,000 were called off

Just over 71 per cent of eligible BMA members voted with 43,440 (98 per cent) voting to continue the industrial action.

Union officials said the result should send be a warning Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, that he has 'nowhere to hide'.

Last month, striking junior doctors were accused of running a 'politically-motivated' campaign aimed at bringing down the Government.

The British Medical Association (BMA) welcomed a pay offer from the Scottish government last month and is balloting its members on the package north of the border.

But Dr Robert Laurenson, co-chair of the BMA's junior doctors committee, sparked fury by signalling he would not agree the same deal with the 'ideological' Tories in Westminster.

A senior health boss said in August that the 16 days of action so far this year has cost the NHS 1billion. Cover for absent staff and making up for lost appointments has seen the health service's bills spiral.

Health secretary Steve Barclay accused the union of being 'reckless' for pressing on with industrial and warned the strikes 'serve only to harm patients'.
A brave teenager who was locked in a legal fight with doctors who wanted to withdraw her life-preserving treatment has tragically died - but still cannot be named.

The 19-year-old woman, anonymised by the courts as 'ST', cannot be identified because of Draconian reporting restrictions which have shrouded her heart-breaking case in secrecy.

Her distraught family said on Thursday: 'Even now, in the hour of our grief, we continue to be gagged by the court order from saying her name aloud.'

They vowed to continue fighting for justice for their courageous daughter to 'bring what has been done in the dark into the light'.

The teenager, who had a rare degenerative condition, died after suffering a cardiac arrest on Tuesday, just days after speaking anonymously in The Daily Mail about her ordeal from her hospital bed.

The 19-year-old woman, anonymised by the courts as 'ST', cannot be identified because of Draconian reporting restrictions which have shrouded her heart-breaking case in secrecy [Stock photo]

She had lived a relatively independent life before she was hospitalised last year after contracting Covid-19, which worsened her degenerative condition

Extraordinarily, despite her death, the blanket restrictions which ban the media from identifying ST or anything about her and her family or mentioning the hospital involved, still stand.

ST's final words in Saturday's mail By the time you read this, I could be dead. That's according to my doctors who, for the last year have repeatedly told me that I have had only days to live. They've done everything they can to stop me telling this story ... but lying here in my hospital bed, I've managed to dictate this message. I have found myself trapped in a medical and legal system governed by a toxic paternalism which has condemned me for wanting to live. But I am a fighter and will continue to fight... I am in a race against time to escape from this system and the certain death it wishes to impose on me. Advertisement

Her devastated parents said: 'We lost our beautiful and courageous daughter, known to the world as ST. To us she has a real name.'

They added: 'To her family she was everything and we will cherish and never forget the 19 years we had with her.

'The past year, however, has been one of struggle, even torture, for ST and for her family at the hands of the hospital and the Court of Protection.'

Her family has vowed that her death is 'not the end' and said they will continue to fight 'for ST's right to be identified and for her full story to be known'.

ST suffered from mitochondrial depletion syndrome, the same illness as that of baby Charlie Gard, whose life support was withdrawn following a bitter court battle over his treatment in 2017.

She had lived a relatively independent life before she was hospitalised last year after contracting Covid-19, which worsened her degenerative condition.

The previously outgoing teenager, who enjoyed watching Love Island and coffee with friends, was left reliant on a ventilator, a feeding tube and regular dialysis.

Despite her difficulties, the remarkable straight-A student was determined to live long enough to travel to North America for potentially life-extending clinical trials of nucleoside therapy.

But ST was blocked from fundraising for the 1.5million costs because of the reporting restrictions requested by her hospital when it took her to court to withdraw her life-preserving treatment in April.

Andrea Williams, from the Christian Legal Centre, previously said: 'This frightening case highlights everything that is wrong with the practice of end-of-life decision-making in the NHS and the courts'

Doctors argued that it was 'kindest option' as the teenager was 'actively dying' - but she told the Mail she did not want to be pumped full of drugs and left to die.

'I do not want this and want to try the treatment being offered abroad. It might only be a small chance but it is my only chance,' she said just last week.

Her distraught family said that ST had been robbed of this opportunity by the drawn out court proceedings and gagging order.

'ST said she wanted 'to die trying to live'. This was her only chance, and that chance was denied to her,' they said.

'The disease ST faced was immense, but she and we refused to give up hope, no matter how small that hope was.

'Every family faced with such a challenge and tragedy should have the opportunity to leave no stone unturned when trying to save the life of their child.

'Instead in our hour of need, when we needed it most, we were taken to court and had severe reporting restrictions placed upon us.'

The family said they were so afraid for ST that they refused to leave her side, giving up their livelihoods and spending 25,000 in life savings on legal fees.

They said they were not given access to legal aid and were forced to pay their costly lawyers' fees themselves until the Christian Legal Centre recently stepped in to provide assistance pro-bono.

They are now struggling to find the funds to pay off their debts and cover the costs of ST's funeral.

The family said: 'We were essentially given a choice: give up and let us prepare your daughter for death, or have your lives dismantled and torn part if you wish to resist us.

'We chose to give up everything for our daughter. Day after day in the intensive care ward we and ST had to exist and keep going in an environment that had given up on her right and wish to live.'

ST's case was notable when compared to other end-of-life cases because she was an adult and able to communicate her unwavering will to live.

Her distraught family said: 'Even now, in the hour of our grief, we continue to be gagged by the court order from saying her name aloud'

Yet a judge last month ruled that she lacked the mental capacity to make her own decisions or even instruct her own lawyers.

'Because ST and our family refused to give up hope, doctors said that ST could not possibly have mental capacity to make decisions about her health,' her family said.

The ruling was made despite two court appointed psychiatrists stating that ST did have 'capacity', with one noting that she was 'comfortable, smiling, alert and in clear consciousness'.

Doctors successfully argued that her refusal to accept their prognosis that she did not have long to live was a sign of delusion and that the Court of Protection should decide her fate.

ST had launched an appeal against the decision but sadly died before it could be heard.

The devout Christian family added: 'From this case we have learnt that if you disagree with the NHS, you must for that reason alone be considered delusional.

'This has been deeply disturbing and traumatic to witness first-hand happening to someone you love.'

Echoing ST's words in last week's Mail, they said she found herself trapped in a 'medical and legal system governed by a toxic paternalism which condemned her for wanting to live'.

'She was in a race against time to escape 'the system' and the certain death it wished to impose on her. The system has now succeeded, but this is not the end,' they vowed.

They said that despite the draconian reporting restrictions, their brave daughter was able to fight long enough for her 'long torment' to be exposed in the Mail.

'Despite her anonymity, she has been able to tell her story and to show the world what has happened to her, and what could happen to any of us.

Appealing for support in their fight, they said: 'We want justice for our daughter and for other victims of this cruel system.'

Andrea Williams, chief executive of the Christian Legal Centre, which is supporting the family, paid tribute to the 'courageous and beautiful soul'.

She added: 'The case of ST is not just about justice for her and her family, but ensuring that justice in such cases is done with full transparency and proper scrutiny in this nation.

'She died advocating for the preciousness of life and importance of justice.'

The hospital trust that had been treating ST was contacted for comment.

Her parents' heartfelt statement On Tuesday evening we lost our beautiful and courageous daughter, known to the world as ST. To us she has a real name. Even now, in the hour of our grief, we continue to be gagged by the court order from saying her name aloud. To her family she was everything and we will cherish and never forget the 19 years we had with her. The past year, however, has been one of struggle, even torture, for ST and for her family at the hands of the hospital and the Court of Protection. Mitochondrial depletion syndrome (MDS) is very rare, and the particular version ST had has only a few known cases in the world. The UK has no expertise in treating the condition but three hospitals in America and Canada had offered to treat ST. ST said she wanted 'to die trying to live'. This was her only chance, and that chance was denied to her..... ST was a committed Christian and firmly believed that life is the most precious gift we have from God. Every family faced with such a challenge and tragedy should have the opportunity to leave no stone unturned when trying to save the life of their child. Instead in our hour of need, when we needed it most, we were taken to court and had severe reporting restrictions placed upon us. We were essentially given a choice: give up and let us prepare your daughter for death, or have your lives dismantled and torn apart if you wish to resist us.... In such an environment, it meant we were afraid to leave her bedside, and were therefore forced to give up our livelihoods to the point we now do not know how we will pay for her funeral. We were not given any legal aid and had to pay for lawyers ourselves until recently the Christian Legal Centre stepped in to provide pro bono legal representation. Despite the fact that two court-appointed expert psychiatrists and the Office of the Public Guardian all agreed that ST did have full mental capacity, the court declared her to have no capacity either to make decisions about her health or even to instruct her own lawyers. From this case we have learnt that if you disagree with the NHS, you must for that reason alone be considered delusional.... This system urgently needs to change, and we pray no one else will ever have to go through what ST and we as a family have been made to suffer this last year. Despite the draconian reporting restrictions, ST has fought long enough for the truth about her long torment to be exposed in the media. Despite her anonymity, she has been able to tell her story and to show the world what has happened to her, and what could happen to any of us. Advertisement
Brian Laundrie exchanged callous text messages with a friend days after he strangled his fiancee Gabby Petito to death on a cross-country road trip.

Petito, 22, vanished after embarking on a journey across America with her boyfriend in June 2021.

Laundrie, 23, killed her on or around August 28 in Wyoming before he took his own life out of guilt and her remains were found in Grand Teton National Park on September 19.

But he sent a series of text messages, seen by The Messenger, to a friend named Ben on September 4 and pretended everything was okay.

'Trip was good,' he wrote after he returned home to Florida. 'Gab and I had fun. Tired now, gonna sleep for a week.'

Brian Laundrie exchanged callous text messages with a friend days after he strangled his fiancee Gabby Petito to death on a cross-country road trip

Laundrie, 23, killed her on or around August 28 in Wyoming before he took his own life out of guilt and her remains were found in Grand Teton National Park on September 19

He sent a series of text messages, seen by The Messenger, to a friend named Ben on September 4 and pretended everything was okay

The exchange of messages between Laundrie and his friend Ben did not indicate anything was wrong.

'We made a lot of content,' he wrote in reference to the couple's YouTube travel channel. 'It was once in a lifetime.'

Petito spent the summer traveling with Laundrie in a white van, documenting their adventures before she disappeared.

He returned to his parents' home in Florida on September 1 without Petito and her family reported her missing on September 11.

Laundrie was named by police as a person of interest in her disappearance.

Petito's strangled body was found in Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park soon after.

Before he could be arrested, Laundrie was found dead in Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park in Florida.

A notebook was found in which he confessed to killing her and claimed he did it to end her pain after she fell.

'I ended her life,' Laundrie wrote. 'I thought it was merciful, that it is what she wanted, but I see now all the mistakes I made. I panicked, I was in shock.'

But days before Petito's death, the couple were questioned by police in Moab, Utah after a member of the public called 911 and reported they had gotten into a physical altercation.

Authorities separated them for the night but no charges were filed.

Petito, 22, vanished after embarking on a journey across America with her boyfriend in June 2021

'Trip was good,' he wrote after he returned home to Florida . 'Gab and I had fun. Tired now, gonna sleep for a week'

The exchange of messages between Laundrie and his friend Ben did not indicate anything was wrong. Pictured: Petito selfie shows beaten and bruised face moments before Utah traffic stop

Pictured: Gabby Petito crying and visibly distressed as cops questioned her days before her death

Petito's parents filed a $50million lawsuit against the Moab City Police Department for failing to arrest Laundrie after they found Petito bloodied and in distress following a fight days before her death.

The suit cited transcripts of an interview between a Moab police officer who pulled over the couple after receiving a call from Petito that claimed she was being attacked by Laundrie.

Legal filings name the officer Eric Pratt as a defendant, charging that both he and his department did not uphold their duties as peace officers by failing to an arrest, despite Pratt later telling other cops Laundrie raised 'more red flags than a Chinese communist rally.'

A Utah statute requires all officers to make an arrest or issue a citation in all domestic incidents.

Upon being questioned about the incident during a recent outside investigation, Pratt conceded to police that he, at the time, viewed Laundrie as a threat to Petito's well-being.

Before Laundrie's death his mother wrote her son a letter which promised to help him bury a body and escape from jail.

Petito's parents claim it is evidence she had helped plot with her son to cover up their daughter's brutal murder. They are suing them over claims they knew about her killing.

A lawsuit against Christopher and Roberta Laundrie alleges the couple knew their son murdered Petito and refused to tell her parents the location of the girl's remains

Laundrie's mother Roberta offered to help her son dispose of a corpse as evidence of her love for him in a letter

She also said she would bake her son a cake with a file in it if he was sent to prison

The undated letter, which Roberta instructed her son to 'burn after reading', revealed she offered to bake her son a cake with a file in it if he was sent to prison.

Roberta also offered to help her son dispose of a corpse as evidence of her love for him.

'I just want you to remember I will always Love you and I know you will always Love me. You are my boy. Nothing can make me stop loving you, nothing will or could ever divide us,' Roberta wrote in the letter.

A lawyer representing the Laundries, Steven Bertolino, filed a proposal to Gabby's parents, Joe Petito and Nichole Schmidt, for an undisclosed amount.

The civil lawsuit, which also names Bertolino as a defendant, claims they were aware of Gabby's murder and chose to remain silent, inflicting untold emotional damage on her parents.

Depositions for the case began last month and a jury trial is set for May 2024.
During the visit the royal couple met founders of We Are Farming Mind charity

The Prince of Wales's 'evolution' of the Duchy of Cornwall was hailed today as he launched a new mental health scheme for tenants of the estate.

The announcement coincided with the Prince and Princess visiting a farm in Hereford to discuss the importance of prioritising farmers' mental health in the agricultural industry.

Matthew Morris, the Rural Director of the Duchy, said: 'So far Prince William as our new Duke, it's been evolution rather than revolution, however, he's been very clear that mental health is one of his priorities.'

During the visit, the Royal couple met Sam and Emily Stables, who started the mental health charity We Are Farming Mind three years ago to help struggling farmers deal with the uncertain nature of their job, bereavement, depression and more.

Speaking about why they had been inspired to start it, Sam said: 'A number of years ago, I went through a really bad time and made the decision that I don't want to be here anymore.'

The Prince of Wales's 'evolution' of the Duchy of Cornwall was hailed today as he launched a new mental health scheme for tenants of the estate. Pictured today as he visited a farm in Hereford

The Prince and Princess of Wales visited a farm in Hereford to discuss the importance of prioritising farmers' mental health in the agricultural industry

During the visit, the royal couple met Sam and Emily Stables (pictured with Alfie and the royals), who started the mental health charity We Are Farming Mind three years ago

Breaking down in tears, he continued: 'I just know how tough it is in the farming industry and the support I had was unbelievable.'

'When we moved to Hereford we realised there was a real lack of mental health support, especially for the farming community, there was a massive stigma surrounding mental health,' Emily added.

It was announced on Thursday that William will put mental health schemes at the heart of his approach to running the Duchy going forward.

'The conversations evolved this year from him saying this is an absolute priority to us being where we are today,' Morris said.

'His Royal Highness has absolutely led on this,' he added, saying: 'He looked at me and said: 'Matt, what are we doing about this?'

The move marks the first significant change from how the estate, which generates an annual income of some 24 million for the Prince of Wales's family, was run by his father.

His new strategy will aim to provide mental health care and support for all tenants of the 130,000-acre estate he inherited on the death of his grandmother.

As well as providing ongoing mental health support to all the Duchy's tenants, it will also have a specific focus on those in rural and more isolated communities, helped by the We Are Farming Mind charity.

It was announced on Thursday that William will put mental health schemes at the heart of his approach to running the Duchy going forward

Prince William and Catherine talk to Emily Stables during their visit to We Are Farming Minds charity at Kings Pitt Farm in Hereford

The royals sat and spoke with a group of farmers who have benefitted from the support of Sam and Emily's charity

'They're just so passionate about mental health and so genuine. They want to support us and support British farming, what more could you want?' Sam said once William and Kate had left.

'[The Duchy's new initiative] is massive and I know it will be a fantastic partnership and hopefully we can provide the tenants with specialised support,' he added.

As part of their visit the Prince and Princess travelled to Sam and Emily's Kings Pitt Farm, part of the Duchy tenancy, where they met two of the farm's donkeys and watched sheep being herded by sheepdog Hugh.

When they were introduced to the couple's youngest son, George, Kate smiled and said: 'It's nice to meet another George.'

Emily quipped: 'I think he's more like your Louis temperament-wise!'

Later speaking to a group of farmers who have benefitted from the support of Sam and Emily's charity, the Princess asked: 'Do you wish you had this type of support back in the day?'

As part of their visit the Prince and Princess watched sheep being herded by sheepdog Hugh

As part of their visit to Hereford the Prince and Princess travelled to Sam and Emily's (pictured) Kings Pitt Farm

Emily (right) and Sam Stables' charity We Are Farming Mind was set-up three years ago to help struggling farmers deal with the uncertain nature of their job, bereavement, depression and more

One replied that We Are Farming Minds was 'the best thing that ever happened' to him, which is why he now volunteers to help others going through a similar situation.

William was curious whether it had been tough for him to open up to Sam, asking: 'Did communicating your worries help?'

'So many farmers and so many farming communities are quite cut off from all these connections,' Kate observed of the isolated nature of the agricultural industry.

Speaking after their visit, Sam agreed, saying: 'Isolation is a big issue within the farming community so with their support I know we can keep our British agriculture going.'
They're known as the Ferrari of the seas and are an ultimate prize for big game anglers.

Now an Atlantic bluefin tuna caught, landed and sold on the west coast of Scotland could mark a new beginning for the countrys fishing industry.

The 164kg (26-stone) fish was caught by fisherman Angus Campbell, who has been granted the only licence in Scotland to fish for tuna commercially as part of a UK trial.

His licence is one of ten to be handed out across the UK, but the only one north of the Border, allowing him to legally land up to three and a half tonnes of tuna a year.

This week he landed his first in Stornoway, on Lewis, where it is thought to have been sold for upwards of 5,000.

Ronnie Scott, who runs the towns Islander Shellfish firm, was the proud buyer of the giant fish, with the cuts sold out in a matter of hours.

A 164kg (26-stone) Atlantic bluefin tuna caught by fisherman Angus Campbell

He said: Its fantastic. Its the first one to be legally landed in the Western Isles and its from a sustainably managed fishery, caught by a local fisherman, and sold locally.

The feedback from the public who bought it is that the quality is absolutely brilliant.

This is freshy caught by rod. Its first class.

Mr Scott refused to say how much it cost him, but he quipped: I had to get a mortgage to pay for it.

One local reported paying 33 per kilogramme, which would suggest the fish was worth in the region of 5,400.

Last night enthusiastic locals took to social media to show off the tuna on their plates.

One wrote: Bluefin tuna locally caught, rare these days, landed yesterday in Stornoway. On to my plate tonight, delicious. Cant get much fresher than this.

It follows several catch and release trials that have been taking place since 2021, in which several island vessels took part.

And this year, the UK Government was authorised by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas to use 39 tonnes of its quota to trial a new small-scale commercial fishery.

Ten licences were issued around the UK with Mr Campbells the only one in Scotland.

Mr Scott said: Hopefully this will be the start of something new.
Democrats are sounding-off against President Joe Biden's son Hunter, 53, after he was hit with three felony charges for lying on a gun form about his drug use.

Lawmakers within the President's own party appear to agree with the bombshell charges issued Thursday by Special Counsel David Weiss, who was appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland to investigate Hunter's crimes.

The House Judiciary Committee's top Democrat, Rep. Jerry Nadler (N.Y.), said he believes Hunter Biden is 'disturbed.'

Meanwhile, the House Oversight's top Democrat Rep. Jaime Raskin (Md.) told reporters that the 'rule of law' must be followed in all cases  even when it comes to the President's son.

Hunter is facing up to 25 years in prison on three felony charges for lying about his crack cocaine addiction when purchasing a gun. A timeline detailed in his own memoir shows he was a drug user at the time he bought the firearm even though he claimed on the form that he was not.

Lying on the federal form to purchase a firearm is a federal felony.

Even Democrats feel the bombshell felony charges against Hunter Biden are warranted

Democrats are usually quick to defend Hunter when it comes to cases involving his father. But now in charges completely unrelated to the President, it seems they are turning on the 53-year-old recovering drug addict.

Leftist lawmakers are openly agreeing with Republicans that the firearm-related felony charges are warranted.

'We shouldn't take delight in other people's misfortunes,' Raskin said on Capitol Hill Thursday as news of the indictment broke. 'But we have to have a rule of law and when people commit crimes then the consequences follow.'

He also said there is a 'presumption of innocence' that should apply to both Hunter Biden and former President Donald Trump when it comes to charges being brought against them.

'Hunter Biden may have very well done some improper things. He's a disturbed man,' Rep. Nadler added on Thursday.

He excused Hunter's actions by adding: 'Almost every president has had problematic family members.'

In a sensational development, the First Son will have to appear in court after a Delaware grand jury returned three charges against him, including two counts of false statements on his gun forms, and one of possessing a firearm while addicted to illicit drugs.

Hunter is indicted on charges related to lying on a firearm report (above) required for his gun transaction. A photo of the form shows he answered 'no' when asked if he was an 'unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance'

The latest is a shattering blow for President Biden who has stood by his son and is running for reelection in 2024.

Weiss' move is a significant escalation in his investigation into the president's son for gun and tax crimes, which is still ongoing after Hunter ended up breaking a plea deal with prosecutors.

Earlier this summer, Hunter reached a deal that would see him avoid trial for the firearms charges if he abided by parole conditions over 24 months.

Republicans in Washington complained that he had been granted a 'sweetheart deal' designed to protect President Biden. However, the plea deal spectacularly fell apart in court in July, opening Hunter up to new charges.

Judge Maryellen Noreika questioned the 'diversion agreement' of Hunter's plea deal - a clause that gave him blanket immunity for a wide range of other potential charges, including illegal foreign lobbying - killing the deal.

Weiss' latest charges also comes the same week that Republicans in the House opened a formal impeachment inquiry into President Biden for his alleged connections to Hunter's business dealings and is likely to have a long-term impact on his political career.

The maximum time in prison would be 25 years if Hunter is convicted on all of the counts, although federal sentences are usually less than the maximum. Hunter could also be slapped with a max $250,000 fine and three years probation.

According to the indictment, Hunter lied about his drug use when he purchased a gun in 2018.

A picture from Hunter Biden's laptop showed the now 53-year-old first son posing nude with a firearm

The First Son purchased a 0.38 Colt Cobra caliber pistol in Delaware , a state that makes any buyer answer a series of questions before they can lay their hands on a weapon.

One from the 2018 application asks if the applicant uses or is addicted to drugs. The box is clearly checked 'no.'

Hunter has admitted that he was addicted to crack cocaine at the time of the gun purchase.

Video discovered on Hunter's laptop computer shows him naked and brandishing a handgun in a hotel room in 2018, allegedly five days after buying the gun.

About two weeks later his lover and brother's widow Hallie Biden found it 'unlocked' in his truck and threw it in a grocery store trash can. Its discovery sparked a police investigation.

In addition, now-President Biden sounded close to tears in the voicemail left on Hunter's abandoned laptop on October 15 - three days after Hunter bought the gun and lied about being a drug addict - begging him to get help.

'It's Dad. I called to tell you I love you. I love you more than the whole world pal,' Joe said in the October 15 message. 'You gotta get some help. I know you don't know what to do, I don't either.'

On July 27, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre ruled out President Biden issuing a pardon for Hunter. But it remains to be seen if the White House's posture has changed now that Hunter faces the three new felony charges.

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., who is leading an investigation into the Biden family's business dealings, reacted to the indictment saying the charges are a 'very small start.'

'Unless U.S. Attorney Weiss investigates everyone involved in the fraud schemes and influence peddling, it will be clear President Biden's DOJ is protecting Hunter Biden and the big guy,' he continued.

Democrats usually run to the Biden's defense when it involved claims against the President  but now appear to be turning against Hunter since the gun-related charges don't involve his father

In August, Attorney General Merrick Garland elevated Weiss to special counsel status after increased scrutiny.

Garland's decision to promote Weiss to special counsel came after IRS whistleblower allegations that Hunter received 'special treatment' during the criminal probe.

IRS agents Joe Ziegler and Gary Shapley testified under oath to House Republicans that their investigation into the president's son 'supported felony and misdemeanor tax charges,' which were ultimately not brought against Hunter due to political pressures.

Weiss tried to bring felony charges against him in Washington, D.C., they said, but was blocked by the district's top federal prosecutor Matthew Graves, a Biden appointee.

The 'special treatment' for Hunter became a pattern that kept happening over and over, said the whistleblowers who were told they would get in 'hot water' if they tried to speak with President Joe Biden's adult children and grandchildren over the course of their investigation.
El Chapo's glamorous wife and the mother of their two kids hit the headlines this week after she was freed from jail to start her new life without him.

She spent two years behind bars in Los Angeles after being convicted of helping her husband distribute billions of dollars worth of drugs in America.

But who is former beauty queen Emma Coronel Aispuro, and how did she come to be the closest confidante and co-conspirator of the world's most notorious drug lord?

El Chapo 's glamorous wife and the mother of their two kids, Emma Coronel Aispuro (pictured) hit the headlines this week after she was freed from jail to start her new life without him

The newly-freed prisoner was born to a cattle ranch family near San Francisco in 1989, and she grew up in the remote Durango village of La Angostura in Mexico

Who is Emma Coronel Aispuro?

The newly-freed prisoner was born to a cattle ranch family near San Francisco in 1989, and she grew up in the remote Durango village of La Angostura in Mexico.

Coronel Aispuro became a beauty queen at age 17 when she won the 2007 Coffee and Guava Festival beauty pageant in Canelas, Mexico.

The Mexican-American dual national is also not the first in her family to have cartel links, as her dad, Ines Coronel Barreras, was one of El Chapo's top lieutenants before his arrest in 2013.

How did she meet Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman?

Coronel Aispuro met the kingpin when he asked her for a dance at a Mexico party when she was 17.

'He flirtatiously smiled at me. After a while a person told me, "The man asks if you want to dance with him". And I said, "OK." she told the LA Times in a rare interview.

They enjoyed a whirlwind romance and Coronel Aispuro became his third wife when they married as she turned 18.

El Chapo is 32 years her senior and their two daughters are the youngest of the 19 children he is said to have fathered.

Coronel Aispuro met El Chapo (pictured), who is now incarcerated, when he asked her to dance when she was 17 years old. She became his third wife when they married one year later

According to prosecutors, she helped run her husband's drug empire between 2014 and 2017 - 'working closely with the command-and-control structure' of the Sinaloa cartel

'He flirtatiously smiled at me. After a while a person told me, "The man asks if you want to dance with him". And I said, "OK." she told the LA Times in a rare interview

They have twin daughters - Emaly and Maria Joaquina. (Pictured: Coronel Aispuro and the children attending El Chapo's trial)

What was her role in his drug empire?

Coronel Aispuro was detained by the FBI at Dulles International Airport in Washington in February 2021 on drug trafficking charges.

According to prosecutors, she helped run her husband's drug empire between 2014 and 2017 - 'working closely with the command-and-control structure' of the Sinaloa cartel.

They said she conspired to distribute large quantities of drugs knowing they would be smuggled into the US.

In 2021 she pleaded guilty to helping to import more than 450,000 kilograms of cocaine, 90,000 kilograms of heroin, 45,000kg of methamphetamine and about 90,000kg of marijuana.

Coronel Aispuro also participated in two plots to spring El Chapo from prison - one successful break in 2015, and a second failed attempt the following year while he was awaiting extradition to the US.

In 2021 she pleaded guilty to helping to import more than 450,000 kilograms of cocaine, 90,000 kilograms of heroin, 45,000kg of methamphetamine and about 90,000kg of marijuana. (Pictured: Coronel Aispuro's mugshot)

Coronel Aispuro often wore large sunglasses and expensive designer outfits which have been catalogued by the paparazzi who clamored outside the courthouse to catch her entrance each morning

She participated in two plots to spring El Chapo from prison - one successful break in 2015, and a second failed attempt the following year while he was awaiting extradition to the US

How did she support him at his trial?

A devoted wife, Coronel Aispuro attended the her husband's trial every day in a show of solidarity.

She often wore large sunglasses and expensive designer outfits which have been catalogued by the paparazzi who clamored outside the courthouse each morning.

Since Coronel Aispuro's mother tongue is Spanish, she wore headphones throughout the trial and tuned in to the translation.

The former beauty queen had been posting inspirational quotes about love and loyalty on a since-deleted Instagram account throughout the trial.

She also used a rare interview at the time to present him as a loving father and husband in an interview.

When El Chapo's guilty verdict came in, he turned to look at her and blew a kiss.

Fighting back tears, Coronel Aispuro smiled in response, and gave him a thumbs up.

El Chapo received a life sentence, and he will live out his days in a prison dubbed as the 'Alcatraz of the Rockies' and a 'high-tech version of hell'.

The Mexican-American dual national is also not the first in her family to have cartel links, as her dad , Ines Coronel Barreras, was one of El Chapo's top lieutenants before his arrest in 2013

A devoted wife, Coronel Aispuro attended the her husband's trial every day in a show of solidarity

Coronel Aispuro posted a picture on Instagram with the caption: 'Few brave people stay to the end, I will never abandon you' during El Chapo's trial

What about their kids?

Coronel Aispuro gave birth to twin girls - Emaly and Maria Joaquina - at Antelope Valley Hospital in Lancaster, California.

Guzman's name was left off the children's birth certificates because the US Department of State was offering a bounty of five million dollars for his capture at the time of their birth.

Coronel Aispuro begged a judge at her trial not to allow her daughters 'to grow up without the presence of a mother', so it's expected that she'll use her new-found freedom to return to them.
Maui will be back in business on October 8, Hawaiis governor has declared, two months to the day after the devastating fire that claimed more than 100 lives.

Only Lahaina, the town at the epicenter, will remain out of bounds as travel restrictions are lifted across the rest of the island.

Airlines have slashed services to the Maui since the fire on August 8 and passenger numbers have more than halved on an island where tourism accounts for 70 per cent of all income.

This difficult decision is meant to bring hope for recovery to the families and businesses on Maui that have been so deeply affected in every way by the disaster, said state governor Josh Green.

People from Hawaii and around the world can resume travel to this special place and help it begin to recover economically.

State governor Josh Green has declared that all travel restrictions outside of Lahaina itself will end on October 8

The Hawaii Tourism Authority has publicized a map showing how much of the island is already open

But Lahaina which was at he epicenter of the blaze will remain off-limit to travelers

Delta, United and Southwest have all axed flights to the island where daily arrivals have fallen as low as 1,500 a day from a previous high of 8,000.

Within hours of the fire the governor demanded that tourists leave the island, following it up with an emergency proclamation on August 13

All nonessential travel to West Maui is strongly discouraged for the duration of this proclamation, he declared.

Visitors in West Maui have largely heeded the call to leave the island, and hotels and other accommodations are needed for displaced residents and emergency workers.

Two days after the fire, Jason Momoa, a Hollywood actor and Native Hawaiian, told his 17 million Instagram followers: 'Do not travel to Maui.'

More recently, he advised: 'Maui is open. Lahaina is closed.'

Since then United Airlines has cut flights from San Francisco and Los Angeles to the island, and its temporarily reduced flights from Denver and Chicago.

Southwest Airlines has suspended services from San Jose, Sacramento and Phoenix until at least November 17.

Ritchie Olsten who runs a helicopter tour company said his daily flights have dropped from more than 25 to as few as one.

'I know what a terrible disaster that was but now were in crisis mode, he said.

'If we cant keep the people that have jobs employed, how are they going to help family members and friends that lost everything?'

'Its going to be a slow coming back, said Lisa Paulson of the Maui Hotel and Lodging Association.

'Its not going to be this massive flood of guests like after the pandemic.

Daily visitor numbers have plunged on the island and have yet to recover

'For every 1,000 units that we dont have a guest in, its a potential loss of $30 million for local businesses throughout the island.'

But there have already been tensions between locals and the few remaining tourists on an island where 7,500 were made homeless and the death toll stands at 115.

'Yes maybe the rest of the island is ready, but we all know they will drive to Lahaina to see it,' wrote Kelli Keahi.

'Oct 8 will bring the disaster tourist here, it's a morbid type of behavior residents are not ready for.'
Multiple students at a Florida high school are facing charges after fights broke out on the grounds on September 12.

District spokesperson Corey Dierdorff confirmed that 14 students were involved in two brawls that broke out at Zephyrhills High School in Pasco County at lunch time. One brawl took place in the hallway and the other in the cafeteria.

According to the Pasco County Sheriff's Office, 13 students are now facing charges which include battery and disruption of school function. The students could also face 'discipline' from the district.

Cell phone videos of the fights were being heavily circulated on social media before they were pull down. The videos show students piled up on each other and fighting while staff kept struggling to break up the fight. At some point, the fights also included the school's principal who was seen trying to break up the fights before she ended up on the ground.

Videos of the fights were being heavily circulated on social media before they were pull down. Students are seen piled up on each other and fighting while staff kept struggling to break up the fight

At some point, the fights also included the school's principal who was seen trying to break up the fights before she ended up on the ground

The school was placed under a 'controlled campus status' meaning that students and staff remained under close supervision through dismissal

In a news release, Dierdorff said: 'the sheer number of students involved and the intensity of the situation made intervention challenging, as students continued to engage in the altercation despite efforts to de-escalate.'

Ultimately, the police were called to help control the situation. The school was then placed under a 'controlled campus status' meaning that students and staff remained under close supervision through dismissal.

The Pasco's Sheriff's office said in a Facebook post that 'increased law enforcement presence will remain on campus out of an abundance of caution for the remainder of the day'.

The Pasco's Sheriff's office said in a Facebook post that 'increased law enforcement presence will remain on campus out of an abundance of caution for the remainder of the day'

The students involved in the fights were kept off campus the next day and the district said they will not be allowed back on campus until the discipline process is figured out

Superintendent Kurt Browning said in a statement released on September 13: 'Let me be perfectly clear: behavior of this nature will not be tolerated in Pasco County Schools. Every student has the right to a safe and conducive learning environment, and we will take every necessary measure to ensure that this remains the case.'

Apart from the charges, Principal Christina Stanley and other school administrators are also considering disciplinary action.

The students involved in the fights were kept off campus the next day and the district said they will not be allowed back on campus until the discipline process is figured out.
Two dogs attacked a man today leaving him with serious injuries while a nearby primary school was locked down to protect the children.

Members of the public tried to help as the man was attacked outside a property in Stonnall, Staffordshire.

Staffordshire Police said officers stopped some children leaving nearby St Peter's Primary Academy school for 'safety reasons'.

Officers were called to Main Street just before 3.15pm today, with the injured man taken to hospital.

An eyewitness saw an air ambulance land in a nearby park while the centre of the village was shut down to traffic.

St Peter's Primary Academy school, in Stonnall, Staffordshire was locked down as police stopped children from leaving after two dogs attacked a man nearby

Police, who have launched an investigation, are trying to determine the dogs' breeds.

A 30-year-old man, from the Lichfield area, has been arrested on suspicion of having dogs dangerously out of control, the force said.

A spokesman said: 'A number of people helped to try and get the dogs off the man and contained one of the dogs outside.

'The other was contained within the owner's flat.

'We prevented a number of school children leaving local primary school, St Peter's Primary Academy, for safety reasons.

'The children have since been allowed to go home.'

A 63 year-old local resident and dog walker, who did not want to give her name, said: 'It is just awful to think that some of the children could have witnessed it and it is all very upsetting.'

Staffordshire Police was called to Main Street, while one eyewitness said they saw an air ambulance land in a nearby park

The woman, who did not see the attack, said an air ambulance landed in the local park, and the centre of Stonnall was shut down to traffic.

She said: 'We are all a bit shook-up. The air ambulance landed on the park. The police came and the centre of the village was completely closed to cars and pedestrians.

'Obviously, after knowing that the two dogs had been caught, I did walk my two dogs but in the opposite direction.

'As dog walkers here, we all know each other. When we realised that something horrific had happened we all spoke to each other and nobody knew who it was.'
The president knew Hunter Biden was in a crack cocaine-fueled meltdown when he bought a gun  a crime the First Son was indicted for Thursday.

Joe Biden left his son a voicemail on October 15, 2018 sounding close to tears and begging him to get help, just three days after Hunter bought a .38 caliber Colt revolver from a Delaware store by lying on a federal form that he was not a drug addict.

On Thursday a Delaware grand jury indicted Hunter on three charges for gun crime, a felony which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Prosecutors should have little trouble convincing a jury of his guilt, after he admitted in his memoir to being in the throes of 'full-blown addiction' at the time.

The charges mean Hunter will now likely face a damaging trial dragging into his father's presidential campaign in 2024  and may just be the first of more indictments, including tax and potential illegal foreign lobbying or money laundering offenses.

The news comes as Republicans announced this week they are seeking to impeach the President over alleged involvement in Hunter's shady overseas business dealings  evidence for which DailyMail.com has unearthed over the past two years.

DailyMail.com obtained a voicemail Joe Biden left Hunter pleading with his son to 'get some help' on October 15, 2018. The timing of the message reveals the president knew about his son's drug-fueled meltdown at the time he purchased a gun three days earlier on October 12

In his memoir, Beautiful Things, Hunter admitted to his continued 'full-blown addiction' at the time of the gun incident  and in doing so, appeared to admit to the felony of lying on the firearm form. A shocking photo obtained from Hunter's laptop shows his badly damaged and worn down teeth - also known as 'meth mouth' - as he sits in a dentist chair

Hunter, 53, lied about being a drug user when filling out a sworn gun purchase form at a Delaware store - a crime the First Son was indicted for today

Joe's October 2018 voicemail to Hunter just days after he bought the Colt Cobra 38SPL was one of the revelations from Hunter's abandoned laptop, obtained by DailyMail.com in 2021.

'It's Dad. I called to tell you I love you. I love you more than the whole world pal,' Joe said in the October 15 message. 'You gotta get some help. I know you don't know what to do, I don't either.'

On October 12, 2018 Hunter Biden bought the .38 caliber pistol from Wilmington gun store StarQuest Shooters & Survival Supply.

About two weeks later his lover and brother's widow Hallie Biden found it 'unlocked' in his truck and threw it in a grocery store trash can. Its discovery sparked a police investigation  though charges were never brought by the local cops.

Hunter wrote on the Firearm Transaction Record that he did not use unlawful drugs, but admitted in his memoir that he was a crack addict at the time. Lying on the federal form is a felony.

The emotional voicemail, along with frantic texts between Hunter and Hallie on the laptop, could form part of the evidence prosecutors use in their prosecution of Hunter for the alleged felony.

Special Prosecutor David Weiss also plans to indict Hunter for two tax crimes after a proposed 'sweetheart' plea deal fell apart under scrutiny from Delaware Judge Maryellen Noreika. Further charges in California and Washington, DC may also follow.

The First Son wrote on a gun application that he was not a user of illegal drugs, but later admitted in his own memoir that he was a crack addict at the time.

Hunter argued about the incident with Hallie in panicked text messages in the following days. 'The f***ing FBI Hallie. It's hard to believe anyone is that stupid // so what's my fault here Hallie that you speak of. Owning a gun that's in a locked car hidden on another property?,' he wrote. 'It was open unlocked and windows down and the kids search your car,' Hallie replied. 'I'm scared you would use it hunt  I'm scared for your life hunt'

Images emerged showing a naked Hunter casually waving around a gun as he fools around with a prostitute during a sex session in 2018, in yet another compromising photo scandal to plague the president's son

The federally required Firearm Transaction Record for the purchase, obtained by DailyMail.com, asks: 'Are you an unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance?'

Hunter checked the box: 'No'.

But in his memoir, Beautiful Things, he admitted to his continued 'full-blown addiction' at the time  and in doing so, appeared to admit to the felony of lying on the firearm form.

'I had returned [to the East Coast] that fall of 2018, after my most recent relapse in California, with the hope of getting clean through a new therapy and reconciling with Hallie. Neither happened,' he wrote in the 2021 autobiography.

He said he would go for regular ketamine therapy sessions as part of his rehab treatment but continued to smoke crack throughout.

'The therapy's results were disastrous,' he wrote. 'I backslid. I did exactly what I'd come to Massachusetts to stop doing. I'd stay clean for a week, break away from the center to meet a connection I found in Rhode Island, smoke up, then return.

'One thing I did remarkably well during that time was fool people about whether or not I was using. Between trips up there, I even bought clean urine from a dealer in New York to pass drug tests.

'I doubt much good comes from doing ketamine while you're on crack.'

A copy of the Firearms Transaction Record and a receipt for the purchase was first obtained by news site Politico in 2021.

Lying on gun forms is a felony, punishable by a maximum 10 years prison and a $250,000 fine.

It was later revealed Hunter allegedly lied on a firearm report (above) required for the transaction. A photo of the form shows the first son allegedly answered 'no' when asked if he was an 'unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance'

Hunter bought the .38 revolver from Starquest Shooters in Delaware on October 12, 2018

However, not all cases are prosecuted. Of the 478 referrals for 'lying and buying' the Justice Department received in 2018, charges were filed for 298 cases, about 60%.

Hunter barely had the gun for a two weeks when a dangerous incident occurred.

Hallie Biden found it in his truck on October 23, 2018 and threw it in a trash can outside local grocery store Janssens, opposite a high school.

It was discovered by a homeless man rifling through the trash. Local police as well as the FBI were called.

Hunter argued about the incident with Hallie in panicked text messages in the following days.

'The f***ing FBI Hallie. It's hard to believe anyone is that stupid // so what's my fault here Hallie that you speak of. Owning a gun that's in a locked car hidden on another property?,' he wrote.

'It was open unlocked and windows down and the kids search your car,' Hallie replied. 'I'm scared you would use it hunt  I'm scared for your life hunt.'

Despite the Bidens not having Secret Service protection at the time, USSS agents reportedly showed up and asked the gun store owner, Ron Palmieri, to hand over purchase documents.

Suspecting the case would be covered up, Palmieri refused and instead later gave his papers to agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, according to a March 2021 Politico report.

Palmieri did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but a clerk at StarQuest told DailyMail.com they were 'glad to hear' Hunter has been charged.

In texts obtained by DailyMail.com, Hunter messaged his therapist to tell him about the ordeal. 'She stole the gun out of my truck lock box and threw in a garbage can full to the top at Jansens. Then told me it was my problem to deal with,' Hunter wrote

The Secret Service has denied any involvement. But in texts from Hunter's laptop he also claimed they had a role in the debacle.

'She stole the gun out of my truck lock box and threw in a garbage can full to the top at Jansens. Then told me it was my problem to deal with,' Hunter wrote in a three-way text message with Hallie and his therapist in January 2019.

'Then when the police the FBI the secret service came on the scene she said she took it from me because she was scared I would harm myself due to my drug and alcohol problem and our volatile relationship and that she was afraid for the kids.'

Transparency organization Judicial Watch sued the Secret Service over its refusal to hand over records relating to the incident under the Freedom of Information Act.

In 2021 the agency told Senators Chuck Grassley and Ron Johnson, who have been investigating Hunter's potential criminal activity, they weren't involved.

'The Secret Service did not provide protection to any member of the Biden family in 2018,' special agent in charge Benjamin Kramer said in a letter published by the Republican senators.

'Further, records searches concerning the reported involvement of Secret Service personnel in the alleged incident have yielded no results.'

The White House has also denied involvement in a previous statement.

'President Biden did not have any knowledge of, or involvement in, the Secret Service's alleged role in this incident, and neither he nor any family member was a protectee at that time,' a spokesperson said in 2021.
Prison officers in Scotland are facing unprecedented threats and intimidation from organised crime gang members behind bars, a union leader has warned.

Phil Fairlie, deputy general secretary of the Prison Officers Association (Scotland), said the risk to staff had never been higher due to the huge increase in organised criminals in the prison population.

Scottish Prison Service intelligence reports have identified 538 individuals linked to serious and organised crime, which is around 8 per cent of Scotlands total prison population.

Of those, 176 have been linked to 54 serious and organised crime groups.

Phil Fairlie, deputy general secretary of the Prison Officers Association (Scotland), said the risk to staff had never been higher

There is a huge increase in organised criminals in the prison population

8 cars torched at jails Police Scotland launched an investigation after this car was firebombed outside HMP Perth AN officers car has been firebombed outside a Scots prison amid a spate of similar incidents. Union leaders fear the attacks have been carried out by organised criminal gangs to intimidate staff. The latest incident happened outside HMP Edinburgh and comes after a car was set on fire outside HMP Perth in July. Six vehicles were destroyed at HMP Addiewell in January. A Scottish Prison Service spokesman told the BBC: We can confirm that an incident took place within the car park of HMP Edinburgh on September 7. Scottish Fire and Rescue were called and no injuries were sustained. Advertisement

There have been examples of cars belonging to staff being set on fire in car parks and a number of police investigations are ongoing into threats made to prison officers. Speaking to the BBC, Mr Fairlie said: The prison population that we hold at the moment is an incredibly challenging mix of prisoners.

There is a huge amount of time and staff resources being used just to manage the huge increase in the organised crime gang numbers that weve got inside prisons.

He added: I think the level of threat and intimidation on staff is unprecedented at the moment. It is the worst I have seen in the 30-odd years I have been involved in prisons.

All staff in prisons recognise every day is a risk but there are levels. The number of organised crime gangs that we have got in there raises the level and volume of the risk staff are confronted with.

In a report released this week, Wendy Sinclair-Gieben, His Majestys Chief Inspector of Prisons for Scotland, warned that inmate populations will hit unprecedented levels by the end of the year.
Scotland is facing an old age timebomb as figures revealed the number of over-65s has soared above a million for the first time.

The population has hit a record high of 5,436,600, with a sharp rise in the number of older people.

Driven in part by the post-war baby boom, Scotland had 1,091,000 over-65s on census day  March 20 last year  sparking fears over the impact this will have on the countrys economy and public services.

The number of over-65s has shot up by 200,700 since the 2011 census, an increase of 22.5 per cent, while the younger population fell by 59,500.

Over-65s now make up more than a fifth of the population (20.1 per cent) for the first time, while 15 to 64-year-olds account for 64.6 per cent, a fall of 2.5 percentage points.

An ageing population, which means fewer working people paying taxes and an increased burden on benefits and the NHS, is being exacerbated by a drop in under-15s. The number of young Scots dropped by 21,800, down 2.5 per cent and below the number of over-65s for the first time.

Scotlands population has hit a record high, but the increase is entirely down to immigration, census data shows

The growth of the population was entirely due to inward migration, as deaths have outnumbered births over the past decade.

Despite increasing by 141,220 (2.7 per cent) since the 2011 census, Scotlands population growth is the lowest in the UK.

Without migration to Scotland  both from the rest of the UK and overseas  the population would have fallen by 49,800. Meanwhile, the population rose by 6.3 per cent in England and Wales and by 5.1 per cent in Northern Ireland.

Constitution Secretary Angus Robertson claimed the population increase demonstrated that Scotland is an attractive place to come to live and work.

Accepting that the ageing population was a growing concern, he said the Government was planning a response to population decline occurring in some of Scotlands communities in the year ahead. But Conservative MSP Donald Cameron accused Mr Robertson of being far too complacent.

He said: The increase in Scotlands population is less than half the rate seen in the rest of the UK compared to the last census.

Its vital we attract more people to Scotland to staff our under-resourced NHS and boost economic growth, but the SNPs obsession with higher taxation and their failures in public services are all bad signs for future provision, particularly in the context of our ageing population.

Labours Neil Bibby said: Scotlands slow population growth is cause for serious concern.

Former SNP finance secretary Kate Forbes has described the population issue as Scotlands greatest challenge and has called for more family-friendly policies, such as tax cuts for young couples looking to have children, in a bid to boost birth rates.

The SNP government, however, has hiked income tax, creating the largest gulf between Scottish rates and the rest of the UK. First Minister Humza Yousaf is openly considering hammering working Scots with even more rises.

National Records of Scotland statistics show that the number of births registered in 2022 was 46,957, down 19 per cent from the 58,027 recorded in 2012. There were also nearly 16,000 more deaths than births last year.
Humza Yousaf yesterday launched a crackpot plan to trigger independence if the SNP wins more Scottish seats than any other party at Westminster.

The First Minister will begin immediate negotiations if his party secures the most seats in Scotland at the General Election.

Mr Yousafs motion, also signed by his partys Westminster leader Stephen Flynn, suggests that the SNP could face significant losses in the Commons but still claim a mandate for independence.

He would then seek to begin negotiations with the UK Government to give democratic effect to Scotland becoming an independent country.

But Mr Yousaf was accused last night of inventing dreamland policy in a bid to keep his warring party together. Critics also said his latest bid for separation was an even more extreme version of Nicola Sturgeons de facto referendum plan.

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton said: It seems like Humza Yousaf and Stephen Flynn have lost the plot.

Humza Yousaf has been accused of losing the plot, after suggesting that the SNP winning 30 out of Scotland's 59 seats in the Commons would be a mandate for independence

They had a gold standard referendum and lost it but now they want to invent a crackpot alternative that allows them to lose a bunch of seats but still break up the UK with a fraction of the vote. It certainly doesnt say much for their confidence in their electoral strategy. Rather than promising to burn absurd amounts of taxpayer money on silly stunts, the Nationalists should be focused on cutting soaring waiting lists and tackling the cost of living crisis.

Professor Jim Gallagher, chairman of the Our Scottish Future think-tank, described it as a dreamland policy aimed at nationalist zealots rather than the wider general public.

Under Mr Yousafs plan, he would attempt to declare independence even if the SNP lost 18 or more of the 48 seats it won in 2019.

It downgrades the previous de facto referendum plan by Ms Sturgeon, who wanted to begin negotiations on independence if the SNP won a majority of votes in Scotland in a general election.

Scottish Tory constitution spokesman Donald Cameron said: Humza Yousaf has made it crystal clear. Hes hellbent on pushing forward an even more extreme version of Nicola Sturgeons deeply unpopular de facto referendum plan. People vote on a whole host of issues at general elections, rather than just on what Humza Yousaf wants them to. The self-styled First Activist is continuing to prioritise his independence obsession over every other issue, which is a dereliction of duty during these challenging times.

In September 2014 Scotland voted by a margin of 55/44 to stay in the 307 year old Union

Pro-union supporters celebrate as Scottish independence referendum results are announced at a 'Better Together' event in Glasgow

The motion by the SNPs leadership will be debated at its party conference in Aberdeen next month. It says the General Election, expected to be held next year, should be used as an opportunity to advance the cause of independence and the SNP manifesto would state, On page one, line one: vote SNP for Scotland to become an independent country.

It goes on: Conference believes that if the SNP subsequently wins the most seats at the General Election in Scotland, the Scottish Government is empowered to begin immediate negotiations with the UK Government to give democratic effect to Scotland becoming an independent country.

Scottish Labour constitution spokesman Neil Bibby said The SNP is considering moving the goalposts once again as they scramble for relevance at the next election.

This election wont be about their constitutional obsession  it will be about booting out this failing Tory government and delivering a fresh start, and only Labour can do that.

Pamela Nash, chief executive of Scotland in Union, said: Whatever guise it takes, the de facto plan is unwanted and unworkable. It was ridiculed far and wide when his predecessor came up with it, and this version from Humza Yousaf is just as much of a nonsense.

Former First Minister Alex Salmond, leader of the Alba Party, said: No one seriously believes that proposing a majority of seats as an independence mandate is at all credible.

Given that Westminster have been allowed over repeated elections to dismiss a majority of SNP seats as a mandate for a mere referendum, why on earth would they concede it as a mandate for negotiating independence itself?

Explaining the reason for claiming victory if the SNP wins the most Scottish seats rather than a majority, an SNP source said: Its because at Westminster you win the election if you win more seats than any other party.
King Charles III 's highly symbolic state visit to Kenya continued today with the monarch visiting a monument celebrating the African nation's independence from Britain in 1963. His Majesty also laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior at Uhuru Gardens outside Nairobi on a trip dominated by Kenya's colonial past. Charles, who has been accompanied on the trip by Queen Camilla, then walked to the Mugomo Tree, a fig tree planted on the site of the declaration of Kenya's independence in 1963. It was planted in the exact spot where the Union Flag was brought down and the first Kenyan flag was raised. It is viewed as modern Kenya's birthplace and is close to a 78ft column topped by a set of hands holding a dove of peace that celebrates the country's independence and the inauguration of Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya's first president. The first full day of the five-day visit will end with a state banquet held in the King and Queen's honour where Charles will give a speech to guests who will include prominent Kenyans and figures from the UK. Britain's monarch is expected to acknowledge the 'more painful' aspects of Britain's colonial relationship with Kenya - including atrocities and the execution of 1,000-plus people perpetuated during the Mau Mau rebellion - when he gives a return toast at the banquet. But Charles is unable to offer an official apology, despite calls by activists who also want Britain to pay further damages over human rights abuses dating back to the 1950s. This is because he is visiting at the request of the British Government , which, while having already paid out nearly 20million in compensation, has not apologised.
One of the largest gold nuggets ever found in Scotland has fetched over 14,000 at auction.

The 31.23g (1oz) chunk was found in a river in the Borders by a gold hunter using a technique known as sniping, which involves wearing a dry suit and snorkelling face-down in the water.

The amorphously shaped piece measures roughly 31 x 22 x 5mm, making it one of the biggest Scottish nuggets ever recorded for size.

It went under the hammer at Bonhams Scottish and Celtic Sale in Edinburgh yesterday, where international interest from specimen collectors and others saw the price soar past its 5,000 to 7,000 estimate.

A private Scottish collector bought the rare nugget for 14,080, making the successful bid in the auction room against a keen rival on the phone.

Rebecca Bohle, Bonhams specialist, said: At over 31 grams, this gold nugget is one of the largest ever found in Scotland, so I was not surprised to see such strong interest.

A rare Scottish gold nugget weighing 31.23 grams has been sold for over 14.000

The chunk was found in a river in the Borders by a gold hunter using a technique known as sniping

There was very competitive bidding in the room and on the phones, including interest from the UK and Europe.

The successful bid was made by an individual from Scotland, bidding in the room. We are delighted with the price achieved.

It is understood that the buyer, whose winning bid equates to 450.85 per gram of Scottish gold, intends to use the rare nugget to create a piece of jewellery.

The nugget was sold by an enthusiast who has panned and sniped for gold for more than 20 years. The seller wishes to remain anonymous, while the exact location where he found the nugget is also being kept secret.

Ms Bohle added: Gold is not easy to find in Scotland and consequently it is rare to find such a large nugget. The finder is something of an expert.

Scottish gold has international appeal because of its rarity, and nuggets have the highest value. No two nuggets are the same and any find weighing over a gram is considered exceptionally lucky.

Sniping is regarded as the purest method for extracting gold as hunters are not required to move a lot of material and even the tiniest specks, magnified under the water, catch the eye.

Remarkably, the 31.23g piece was part of a larger collection offered from the same finder, including smaller nuggets and dozens of flakes, which also made impressive sums.

One smaller nugget weighing 3.32g fetched 512, while a collection of small nuggets and flakes with a gross weight of 15.4g made 1,408.

The finds were all made by the same gold hunter over a number of years by sniping.

The same individual found one of the biggest nuggets ever found in Britain. The gold, dubbed the Douglas Nugget, weighed 85.7g and is now on display in the Hunterian museum at the University of Glasgow.
The White House has so far been unequivocal that President Biden will not pardon his son Hunter.

But that stance will be tested now that Hunter Biden has been indicted on three counts over gun charges - and faces a possible prison sentence.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre bluntly stated in late July that Biden wouldn't make the controversial move following the spectacular collapse of Hunter's plea deal with prosecutors.

Now, the presidents son is facing up to 25 years behind bars over charges that would have been dispensed through a diversion program in plea deal which fell apart and led to the appointment of David Weiss as a special counsel.

From a presidential perspective, is there any possibility that the president would end up pardoning his son? Jean-Pierre got asked.

The White House has so far been unequivocal that President Biden will not pardon his son Hunter. But that stance will be tested now that Hunter Biden has been indicted on three counts over gun charges - and faces a possible prison sentence

No, she answered.

When pressed, she doubled down. I just said no. I answered, she responded.

The statement was a departure for Jean-Pierre, who routinely avoids comment on Hunter Biden and other questions with a judicial flavor by referring them to the Department of Justice or simply declining to comment.

Throughout the Biden administration, the president and his top aides have sought to avoid delving into judicial matters, saying they prioritize an independent judiciary and sometimes using the posture as a defense tactic.

Democratic Rep. Dan Goldman (New York) has said it would be a mistake for Biden to pardon his son.

Yes, and I dont think theres any chance that President Biden is going to do that, unlike his predecessor, who pardoned all of his friends, and anyone who had any access to him, Goldman, who served as lead counsel for Trumps first impeachment, told ABC last month.

Presidents of both parties have been tempted to use their virtually unlimited pardon power, which is established in Article II of the Constitution.

The Constitution states that the president shall have Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment, in language that has been compared to a blank check for its lack of limitations.

While constitutional scholars differ over whether a president could pardon himself, there is no such dispute over whether a president may pardon a family member  although such a move can be politically odiferous, which could be why presidents have used the power when they were on the way out the door.

Shortly before leaving office, President Bill Clinton pardoned his brother Roger for a 1985 cocaine and drug trafficking conviction for which he had already served time.

In the last weeks of his own administration, Trump pardoned a skein of friends and associates, including daughter Ivankas father-in-law Charles Kushner. Both Ivanka and Jared Kushner were White House advisors at the time.

With Hunter Biden potentially facing a trial in the midst of his fathers reelection campaign, the president is certain to be asked about the matter again by the press and by his rivals.

Biden and his son are extremely close. According to testimony by Hunters former business partner Devon Archer, they speak on the phone every day.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre bluntly stated in late July that Biden wouldn't make the controversial move following the spectacular collapse of Hunter's plea deal with prosecutors

House Republicans are using that closeness as evidence to claim Biden was in on his sons business dealings, something the White House forcefully denies as the GOP moves ahead with its impeachment inquiry.

Archer said Biden as vice president joined dinners or meetings with Hunters associates in person or on the phone about 20 times  despite Bidens own claims he never discussed business with his son.

Biden, who lost his son Beau to cancer and who lost his first wife Neilia and daughter Naomi in a 1972 car accident that also injured both boys, has kept Hunter close even amid his legal woes and personal struggles.

He has regularly attended White House events, and vacationed with Biden this summer at his Delaware beach house and on a trip to Lake Tahoe.

Sometimes that proximity has caused their legal troubles to collide, as when pictures from Hunters infamous laptop revealed Hunter in his dads 1967 Corvette outside the Wilmington garage where classified documents were located.

The president plunged into sadness and frustration when Hunters plea deal suddenly collapsed, the New York Times reported this week, in a story that described their bond as singular in its intensity.

That close bond could be strained even more in the weeks ahead. Hunter has yet to be charged on the two tax counts he was willing to plead guilty to  and the government acknowledged in a Wilmington courthouse that its investigation could also involve foreign lobbying disclosure issues.
The Phillip Schofield This Morning scandal is to be played out in a 'jaw-dropping' TV drama series.

The shamed star, 61, stepped down from presenting the daytime show after 21 years when he admitted he repeatedly lied to bosses about having an affair with a runner.

Phillip  who called the relationship 'unwise, but not illegal'  cheated on his wife Stephanie with the young male colleague.

The tryst was kept secret for years until he admitted to The Mail on Sunday he had lied about it having been just rumours.

He went on to confess he had misled his employer ITV, his colleagues, his friends and his then agents at the management firm YMU.

Phillip Schofield pictured with former co-host Holly Willoughby on This Morning on May 16 before his sudden resignation

Shamed TV presenter Schofield speaks to the BBC's media editor Amol Rajan about his affair

Now the fling that cost his career is set to be played out on television screens across the country in a 'jaw-dropping' drama.

The working title is believed to be The Runner and will include his fallout with co-presenter Holly Willoughby, 42.

The production company behind the series thinks Channel 4 would be a 'perfect fit', a source told The Sun.

They said: 'The storyline will reflect what went on. People have seen it from the outside but the drama will give a perspective on what may have occurred behind-closed-doors.'

In an extraordinary series of mea culpa interviews he apologised for all of the hurt he had caused.

It sparked an extraordinary domino effect for the show and ITV, with Willoughby having to issue a statement saying she knew nothing about it.

But Schofield insisted he had not 'groomed' the man, despite first meeting him when he was 15.

Phillip Schofield with his wife Stephanie Lowe and daughters Molly and Ruby in London in 2018

And he went on to declare: 'Attraction is attraction. It's no different in the gay world as it is in the heterosexual world or in the lesbian world.

'There shouldn't be a difference. This is where homophobia comes in.

'We did first meet when he was 15, I visited the drama school [he attended].'

In a hard-hitting emotional interview with the BBC's Amol Rajan, Schofield said his two daughters - Molly, 29, and Ruby, 27 - had saved his life.

He said the fallout from his admission that he lied about his affair with a younger male colleague had been 'relentless', revealing he has had suicidal thoughts.

Schofield said: 'My girls saved my life. They said last week they haven't left me for a moment. They've been by my side every moment because they're scared to let me out of their sight. What is that like for daughters to have to go with something like that?

'And they said to me, "don't you dare do this on our watch. We're supposed to be looking after you". If my girls hadn't been there, I wouldn't be here, because I don't see my future.'

The former Live and Kicking presenter was pictured in public for the first time in June after admitting he had gone into hiding for a month out of fear the public would spit at him.

Phillip Schofield has broke cover for the first time in June since his devastating This Morning scandal  looking healthier as he celebrated his beloved mother's birthday

He was seen in Cornwall to celebrate his beloved mother Pat's 87th birthday.

Earlier this month it emerged Schofield had unfollowed his former best friend Willoughby on Instagram.

His last post on the social media platform was a video of himself standing beside the Louis Vuitton Foundation art museum in Paris on May 7 - two weeks before the scandal broke.

The MailOnline has contacted a representative of Phillip Schofield and Channel 4 for comment.
A Seattle city councilwoman is calling for the firing of cop Daniel Auderer, the man filmed saying a college student run over by a police cruiser had 'limited value' - though he claims the remarks have been taken out of context.

Jaahnavi Kandula, 23, was run down by a speeding police SUV as she was crossing a heavily marked crosswalk near the Seattle graduate college campus in the South Lake Union neighborhood on January 23.

Detective Daniel Auderer - who was not in the car that hit the student, but was responding to the scene - said police can just 'write a check' after killing the master's student and that her life had 'limited value.'

Councilwoman Tammy Morales, a Democrat who promotes criminal justice reform, wants Auderer fired by Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz.

'After every high-profile incident of police abuse, we're told to wait - wait for a six-month long investigation or a years-long review process. We're done waiting,' Morales said in a statement.

A Seattle city councilwoman is calling for the firing of cop Daniel Auderer, the man filmed saying a college student run over by a police cruiser had 'limited value' - though he claims the remarks have been taken out of context

'I'm calling on Chief Diaz to tell the Council and community, in real terms, how he plans to regain control of his department and fix the culture,' she added.

Morales noted Auderer is vice president of Seattle's top police union.

'As a mother of three, I am disgusted by the comments Daniel Auderer made in the video. To the friends and family of Jaahnavi, I am so sorry that you had to witness your loved one's memory and worth reduced to joking banter and laughter,' said Morales.

She was also heavily critical of the Seattle Police Guild Auderer represents.

'This officer should not be on the force. But, because of the ways the SPOG contract undermines police accountability in Seattle, the City is not even able to fire him at this time,' she continued.

According to reports, Auderer claims he was just mimicking what a defense lawyer would say to minimize liability for her death, and that his comments were not made out of 'malice.'

Police body cam footage of the aftermath of the wreck was released this week.

In video from the crash, the cop driving the car, officer Kevin Dave, was doing at 74mph in a 25mph zone before he slammed into Jaahnavi Kandula.

Kandula was crossing the intersection of Dexter Avenue North and Thomas Street near the college campus in January when she was thrown 100 feet into the air. She died at the hospital a day later.

Driver Dave was heard calling into radio dispatch for backup after reports of a struck pedestrian. He was seen performing CPR on the young woman until several other first responders arrived at the scene.

Auderer is a drug-recognition officer, who was assigned to determine whether Dave was under the influence. He concluded that his colleague was sober.

The station reported that Auderer acknowledged in the statement that anyone listening to his side of the conversation alone 'would rightfully believe I was being insensitive to the loss of human life'

Police ruled the incident an accident, and the officer returned to duty days later.

In video at the scene, Auderer cackled and downplayed her death while on the phone with his colleague, saying: 'Just write a check. $11,000. She was 26, anyway. She had limited value.'

Radio host on KTTH-AM Jason Rantz reported he had obtained a written statement Auderer provided to the city's Office of Police Accountability.

In it, Auderer said that Solan had lamented the death and that his own comments were intended to mimic how the city's attorneys might try to minimize liability for it.

According to the station, Auderer wrote: 'I intended the comment as a mockery of lawyers.

'I laughed at the ridiculousness of how these incidents are litigated and the ridiculousness of how I watched these incidents play out as two parties bargain over a tragedy.'

The station reported Auderer acknowledged in the statement that anyone listening to his side of the conversation alone 'would rightfully believe I was being insensitive to the loss of human life.'

The comment was 'not made with malice or a hard heart,' he said, but 'quite the opposite.'

Auderer is currently being investigated by a police watchdog.

DailyMail.com has reached out to Councilmember Morales and the Seattle Police Guild for comment.

Councilwoman Tammy Morales, a Democrat who promotes criminal justice reform , wants Auderer fired by Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz

Jaahnavi Kandula, 23, was a graduate student set to earn her masters in information systems at Northeastern University

EXCLUSIVE: The bodycam video backs my report below.



The officer said it would sound really bad without context (he's right). The context of what he was responding to, mocking city lawyers trying to get out of paying the family of a young victim, is important. https://t.co/evRAwJsfNO pic.twitter.com/uNDX0LwqcS  Jason Rantz on KTTH Radio (@jasonrantz) September 11, 2023

Congressman Ro Khanna, who is also the co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans, slammed the officer's comments: 'Jaahnavi Kandula came here for graduate work from India.

'She was killed on a crosswalk by a speeding police car, & Officer Auderer said her life had 'limited value'.

'I thought of my Dad who came here in his 20s. Mr Auderer, the life of every Indian immigrant has infinite value.

'Anyone who thinks that a human life has 'limited value' should not be serving in law enforcement.'

Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal wrote: 'This is appalling. I hope to see justice for Jaahnavi Kandula's family and accountability for those involved.'

Shri Thanedar also added: 'Video shows Seattle policeman laughing over death of Indian student killed by patrol car. TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE.

'Justice for Jaahnavi Kandula.'

Images from the scene show Office Kevin Dave performing CPR on the victim moments after hitting her with his cruiser. She died the next day

Ms Kandula's family said her death left a 'huge hole' in the hearts of people who knew her. She was run down by a speeding Seattle Police Department SUV as she was crossing a heavily marked crosswalk near her campus in the South Lake Union neighborhood on January 23

When Auderer finished his analysis, he called Seattle Police Officers Guild President Mike Solan, and the pair talked for two minutes - which is the basis for the newly released bodycam footage.

The Seattle Police Department said the clip of Auderer laughing was spotted by an employee during a routine check.

Norman Chen, Chief Executive Officer of The Asian American Foundation said in a statement: 'We are sickened by the insensitive remarks made by an officer of the Seattle Police Department.

'We condemn this type of behavior from a leader in the community who is sworn to protect and serve.

'We call upon the Office of Police Accountability to keep holding this officer accountable for his actions and encourage the Seattle Police Department to work with local leaders to rebuild trust within the Seattle and greater Washington community.'

Stating Kandula's case has not been 'properly investigated', advocacy group, the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), called for 'strict action', saying Kandula and her family 'deserve better'.

The Coalition of Hindus of North America also wrote on social media: 'We are horrified by the disgusting lack of concern or humanity for Jaahnavi Kandula, in the tapes of Seattle police that surfaced this week.

'Laughing and assigning a dollar value to a life snuffed out so brutally needs to be condemned in the strongest way.

'With such a callous disregard for life, it is no surprise that this case has still not been properly investigated. A bright young immigrant woman from India, Jaahnavi and her family deserve better.

'We condemn this racist and brutal act in the strictest of terms and demand the local authorities, Seattle Council and lawmakers like Pramila Jayapal ensure a swift investigation and strict action against all involved.'

The Consulate General of India in San Francisco called the ordeal 'deeply troubling.'

Bodycam footage has revealed the moment a Seattle police officer callously laughed and said that the life of a Northeastern University student who was mowed down by a cop car had 'limited value'

They demanded a 'thorough investigation and action against those involved in this tragic case'.

Kandula was a graduate student set to earn her masters in information systems. Her family recalled her as a 'brilliant' person.

Her family said her death left a 'huge hole' in the hearts of people who knew her.

'We are truly heartbroken. Jaahnavi was a brilliant student with a bright future. Jaahnavi's smile was radiant, and her bubbly personality warmed the hearts of every person she came in contact with.

'She had an innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life,' they said in a statement.

'Jaahnavi's tragic and untimely death has left her family and community with a huge hole in their hearts that will never be repaired. She was a daughter to a single mother who teaches elementary school in India.

'In spite of earning less than 200 USD per month, her mother educated Jaahnavi and encouraged her to the United States hoping Jaahnavi would have a better future and a better life abroad. Her mother's hopes and dreams are cut short now.'
Fears are growing that thousands of jobs will be axed at Tata's giant Port Talbot plant despite a Government bailout worth 500million as the Indian-owned steel conglomerate pursues Net Zero.

Reports suggest the deal will see the firm's Indian parent Tata Group pump 700million into the business as it switches to more environmentally-friendly forms of steelmaking.

Tata Steel employs 8,000 workers in Britain  half of them at Port Talbot in South Wales. Around 3,000 jobs at the firm are set to be axed despite the deal.

The package comes just weeks after the Government handed the Tata industrial empire another 500million subsidy to persuade it to build a UK 'gigafactory', where it will make vehicle batteries for Tata-owned car maker Jaguar Land Rover. Ministers have separately been in talks for months with Scunthorpe-based British Steel, another producer, over an additional 500million support package.

Britain's steel industry employed more than 300,000 in its 1970s heyday. By 2021 the number had dwindled to just over 33,700, with the sector's economic output of 2.4billion accounting for just 0.1 per cent of the British economy.

Tata Steel employs 8,000 workers in Britain  half of them at Port Talbot in South Wales. Around 3,000 jobs at the firm are set to be axed despite the deal (File Photo)

The industry has struggled against competition from foreign factories  in 2019, the UK produced just 7 million tonnes of steel to China's 996 million. Yet politicians see maintaining it as strategically vital given its importance to wider industry and infrastructure.

Earlier this year, business and trade secretary Kemi Badenoch told The Mail on Sunday: 'The reality is that steel is very, very challenging, but we do need steel, certainly from an economic resilience perspective. We can't just decide that we're going to rely on China.'

Tata Steel has warned in the past that without government support it would need to consider closing its sites, which include operations in Corby, Hartlepool, Flintshire and Cumbria.

A challenge for Tata would be winding down its two blast furnaces to switch to less carbon-intensive electric arc furnaces. Union sources say the resulting job cuts would be 'devastating'.

Labour's business spokesman Jonathan Reynolds said last night: 'Only this government could spend 500million to make thousands of people redundant and deliver no safeguards on the nation's investment.

Tata Steel's Port Talbot plant. Britain's steel industry employed more than 300,000 in its 1970s heyday. By 2021 the number had dwindled to just over 33,700, with the sector's economic output of 2.4billion accounting for just 0.1 per cent of the British economy (File Photo)

'This is not a serious plan for the long term of our steel industry. It is yet another sticking plaster.'

The Government has said the steel sector 'plays a vital role within the economy' supporting jobs and economic growth and that it is 'committed to securing a decarbonised, sustainable and competitive future' for it.

A spokesman said last night: 'We are not commenting on speculation with regards to timings of any announcement as negotiations are ongoing.' Ministers were previously reported to have offered a lower sum of 300 million to help Tata shift to greener forms of production.

But executives were said to have dismissed that given the 2-2.5 billion investment they said was needed. The subject was likely to have been on the agenda when Tata Group chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran met Rishi Sunak earlier this year.

An official told the Financial Times: 'The alternative to any deal is 8,000 jobs lost. This is another example of the Prime Minister resolving a longstanding issue. Tata's original asks were in the billions, so this would represent a big government win for value for money.' Tata Steel did not respond to a request for comment.
Spies can still work from home despite concerns about the Government's handling of the threat posed by Beijing, ministers said today.

Parliament's spy watchdog noted in a landmark report on China in July that restricted access to intelligence due to spy agency staff not being in the office meant deadlines had been missed or responses 'sanitised'.

But the Government yesterday defended the practice and said remote working allowed the intelligence services to be 'diverse and inclusive'.

In a formal response to the Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) report, ministers acknowledged China was 'headhunting' UK officials in sensitive jobs and admitted they needed to do more to protect British interests. They also conceded that some of Beijing's actions crossed the line from 'influence to interference', and said more investment was needed to counter the threat.

Rishi Sunak has faced pressure to toughen his stance towards Beijing after it was revealed a parliamentary researcher was arrested on suspicion of spying for China.

Spies can still work from home despite concerns about the Government's handling of the threat posed by Beijing, ministers said today. Pictured: Whitehall and the British Parliament

In its report, the ISC called for ministers to restrict the practice of allowing members of the intelligence services to work from home.

'While it may have been reasonable for staff to work partially from home during the pandemic, it would obviously not be feasible for organisations that rely on secret material to carry out all their work over less secure systems,' it said.

'Yet even now, with the country having fully reopened, we continue to see the intelligence community working partially from home (some more than others).

'It appears that the response to our requests for information has slowed dramatically as a result: the "new normal" for some organisations means deadlines have been missed or responses have been sanitised to enable them to be sent from home.'

The committee said this had an impact on its ability to scrutinise security and intelligence issues.

The Government said yesterday: 'The intelligence community learned many important lessons about the benefits of hybrid working during the pandemic, and will continue to provide opportunities for staff to work from a wider range of locations where it is still possible for them to fulfil their roles.'

It said the practice allowed the recruitment of a 'fully diverse and inclusive' workforce. The ISC warned that Chinese agents target the UK 'prolifically and aggressively', and condemned Britain's response to the threat as 'completely inadequate'. The Government accepted that Beijing has tried to recruit Britons to 'key positions with sensitive knowledge and experience', including from government and the military.

Mr Sunak, accused of being soft on China, acknowledged more needed to be done. 'It remains an absolute priority for the Government to take all necessary steps to protect the UK from any foreign state activity which seeks to undermine our national security, prosperity and democratic values,' he said. 'I am clear-eyed about that challenge and will call out unacceptable behaviour directly.'

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (pictured) has faced pressure to toughen his stance towards Beijing after it was revealed a parliamentary researcher was arrested on suspicion of spying for China

The Prime Minister also pointed to the National Security Act and the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act as examples of attempts to curb the threat from China.

The Government rowed back on proposals to ban Chinese-backed Confucius Institutes, arguing it would be 'disproportionate' despite Mr Sunak promising during the Tory leadership race to shut down the 30 institutions across the UK.

The nine-member ISC, the only group of MPs allowed to examine the work of MI5, MI6 and GCHQ, raised particular concerns about Chinese influence in universities, and also warned that the time taken to reform the Official Secrets Act was 'unconscionable'.

Sir Julian Lewis, the ISC's chairman, dismissed the Government's China policy as developing at a 'glacial pace'.
Keir Starmer yesterday refused to say how many asylum seekers Labour would let in from the EU  as Rishi Sunak warned the total could top 100,000 a year.

The Labour leader confirmed he was willing to discuss taking an annual quota in return for a returns agreement that would allow Britain to send back some Channel migrants.

But during a round of interviews to promote his plan, Sir Keir refused to say how many asylum seekers he would be willing to accept as part of a 'burden sharing' deal with Brussels, saying it would be a matter for negotiation.

Government sources said the final figure could top 100,000 a year if calculated on a per capita basis.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman accused Sir Keir of turning the UK into a 'dumping ground' for the EU's migrants. 'He'll let Brussels decide who comes to the UK,' she said.

The Labour leader confirmed he was willing to discuss taking an annual quota in return for a returns agreement that would allow Britain to send back some Channel migrants

Still coy over triple lock Sir Keir Starmer yesterday refused to commit Labour to keeping the pensions triple lock. The Labour leader said there would be a 'fair and decent' pension if he won power, but he would not say whether the flagship measure to protect the state pension would be kept. His comments will fuel fears about the future of the triple lock, after Rishi Sunak also refused to commit to keeping it in the next Conservative manifesto. The triple lock guarantees that the state pension will rise in line with inflation, earnings or 2.5 per cent, whichever is highest. It was introduced by the coalition government in 2010 following derisory increases of as little as 75p a week under the last Labour government. But Treasury officials are concerned about the mounting cost of the scheme. Advertisement

'He'll agree to make Britain the dumping ground for many of the millions of illegal migrants that Europe doesn't want. And none of this will stop the boats.'

Mr Sunak also condemned the idea, which is a central part of Labour's plan to tackle illegal migration.

Speaking to reporters during a visit in Devon, the Prime Minister said Sir Keir's claim to want to tackle the small boats crisis was not credible, given that he had ordered Labour MPs to vote against every attempt to tighten border controls.

He added: 'His plans seem to amount to saying we might one day accept 100,000 EU migrants every year. That doesn't seem like a credible plan to me to stop the boats.'

Sir Keir insisted that closer co-operation with Brussels on the small boats crisis would mean 'taking back control of a situation the Government has totally lost control of'.

He added: 'It ought to be the Government who decides who comes here but it is the gangs.'

He pledged to smash the 'vile' people smuggling cartels and said it was nonsense to suggest Labour would let in 100,000 asylum seekers a year.

'There is a difference between the burden that is there as an EU member and the arrangements we would make as a third country,' he said. Sir Keir denied his plans were a first step towards reversing Brexit, saying there was 'no case for going back in the EU'.

The Prime Minister said Sir Keir's claim to want to tackle the small boats crisis was not credible

Home Secretary Suella Braverman accused Sir Keir of turning the UK into a 'dumping ground' for the EU's migrants

But he added: 'If you are going to smash the gangs then you have to operate where they are operating.'

Former Labour home secretary Lord Blunkett warned it would not be easy to sell his party's plans to the electorate.

He told the BBC's World at One show: 'It is a complicated sell. It has always been complicated message because immigration is like lighting a fire.'

Sir Keir held talks at Europol yesterday to underline his message that Labour would focus on international law enforcement to tackle the people smugglers.

He confirmed that Labour would dismantle the Government's flagship scheme to send Channel migrants to Rwanda, describing it as 'inhumane'.

Former Labour home secretary Lord Blunkett warned it would not be easy to sell his party's plans to the electorate

Immigration minister Robert Jenrick said the Government and law enforcement agencies were already making strenuous efforts to break up the gangs and it was 'disingenuous' to suggest otherwise.

But attention focused on Labour's plans for a new returns agreement  and the price Sir Keir might be happy to pay to secure one. He said he was willing to open negotiations about taking part in an EU 'burden sharing' system designed to relocate migrants who land in Greece, Italy, and other Mediterranean countries.

Labour sources said the idea was at an early stage and declined to say how many could be involved.

As part of its plans, Labour says it would work to reach agreement to share real-time intelligence with the EU similar to the Schengen Information System II, a database of terror suspects and immigration offenders which the UK had automatic access to before Brexit.

The party has also vowed to strengthen powers to restrict the movement of people smugglers by making it quicker and easier to obtain civil orders, known as serious crime prevention orders.
Republican firebrand Lauren Boebert was caught on camera giving theatre ushers the finger after she was asked to leave a performance of the musical Beetlejuice.

The Colorado congresswoman was attending a performance on Sunday at a Denver theatre with her date, Aspen bar owner Quinn Gallagher.

Boebert was asked to leave after ushers noticed her vaping and taking photos on her phone. She was also singing along loudly, to the annoyance of other theatregoers.

The 36-year-old, who became a grandmother earlier this year, was escorted out of the show at Denver's Buell Theatre.

Surveillance footage shows Boebert, wearing a tight, low-cut gold dress and high heels, making a considerable fuss as she and Gallagher left - taking a selfie as she leaves the auditorium and angrily baring her teeth at staff.

She also gave ushers the finger. The Denver Post spoke to a pregnant woman who says she was sitting behind Boebert, but who was too scared to give her name for fear of MAGA-reprisals. The woman claims Boebert said 'no,' when asked to stop vaping, sang with her hands in the air, blew vape smoke at her, kissed her date and took repeated videos during the show.

She claims she asked to move seats in the intermission - and that staff at the theater said theirs wasn't the only complaint about the erratic lawmaker. The woman also told the Post that Boebert's lover Gallagher offered to buy them cocktails as a peace offering, which she had to decline because of her pregnancy.

Lauren Boebert is seen on surveillance camera footage giving ushers the finger on Sunday night at a Denver theatre, after she was kicked out

Security personnel are seen speaking to the congresswoman and Gallagher inside the theater before escorting them out

Boebert is seen with Quinn Gallagher being kicked out of a touring performance of the musical 'Beetlejuice' over the weekend in Denver

According to The Denver Post, the congresswoman at one point asked: 'Do you know who I am?'

An incident report noted the two received a warning at intermission about their behavior.

But five minutes into the second act, security officials got another complaint about a person being loud and recording the show.

'They told me they would not leave,' an usher said, according to the report.

'I told them that they need to leave the theater and if they do not, they will be trespassing.

'The patrons said they would not leave. I told them I would (be) going to get Denver Police. They said go get them.'

Afterwards, Boebert and her smartly-dressed date were caught on camera walking off through the empty nighttime streets of Denver.

DailyMail.com revealed on Wednesday that Boebert, 36, and Gallagher, 46, a divorced father of a 16-year-old son, have been secretly dating for several months.

According to a well-placed source: 'It's very surprising. I always thought Quinn was a cool guy and a Democrat. His parents would be horrified because they are definitely blue.'

DailyMail.com can reveal that Boebert and Gallagher, Colorado local and Aspen bar owner, have been dating for several months

The two were spotted holding hands as the left the area and walked down the street

Surveillance footage shows and angry Lauren Boebert being escorted from a Denver theater over the weekend for alleged bad behavior

Once outside Boebert's indignation quickly dissipates as she holds her new lover's hand, dances coquettishly and twirls for him in the street as they make their way through the city  a three-hour drive from Gallagher's home near Aspen and even further from Boebert's home in Silt, Colorado.

Pictures obtained exclusively by DailyMail.com show Gallagher in his hometown on the outskirts of Aspen where he owns Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar with partner Pat Flannigan.

Boebert's divorce from Jason, 36, her husband of 18 years and father to her four children, is ongoing after the couple's shock split in May

The pair opened the bar billed as 'rustic and unpretentious,' in April 2016, and became co-owners last year.

Boebert's divorce from Jason, 36, her husband of 18 years and father to her four children, is ongoing after the couple's shock split in May.

At the time Boerbert insisted that she had always been faithful throughout her marriage.

In her statement, the sophomore congresswoman said: 'It is with a heavy weight on my heart that I have filed for divorce from my husband.

'I am grateful for our years of marriage together and for our beautiful children, all of whom deserve privacy and love as we work through this process.

'I've always been faithful in my marriage, and I believe strongly in marriage, which makes this announcement that much more difficult.'

It is not clear when Gallagher and Boebert's relationship became romantic, but the bar owner originally comes from the congresswoman's hometown of Rifle, Colorado, and still has family there.

It is just a stone's throw from the controversial congresswoman's home in Silt.

Pictures obtained exclusively by DailyMail.com show Gallagher in his hometown on the outskirts of Aspen where he owns Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar

Gallagher was married to Seattle girl, Aleece Alexander, 48, in 2006. Divorce records obtained by DailyMail.com show that they split in 2013 by which time they had moved back to Gallagher's native Colorado

According to a well-placed source, 'I always thought Quinn was a cool guy and a Democrat. His parents would be horrified because they are definitely blue'

It is not clear when Gallagher and Boebert's relationship became romantic, but the bar owner originally comes from the congresswoman's hometown of Rifle, Colorado, and still has family there

Gallagher was married to Seattle girl, Aleece Alexander, 48, in 2006.

They honeymooned in Puerto Vallerta and owned and ran the now defunct Mona's Bistro & Lounge in Seattle - where their first and only child was born in 2007.

Divorce records obtained by DailyMail.com show that they split in 2013 by which time they had moved back to Gallagher's native Colorado.

The hospitality business is something Gallagher and Boebert have in common.

Boebert had a brief foray into the industry as the owner of Shooter's Grill in Rifle where customers could have their cheeseburger and onion rings served by a waitress with a 9mm on her hip.

The restaurant, which encouraged patrons to come armed, was shuttered in July 2022 after the landlord declined to renew Boebert's lease.

Boebert, who is at the beginning of her campaign for a third term representing Colorado's third Congressional District, made quite the scene Sunday night

Boebert, who wore a tight gold dress, promptly left the theater with her man as they were escorted to the lobby

The Republican admitted she was removed from the theater in a social-media post, downplaying her alleged behavior.

'It's true, I did thoroughly enjoy the AMAZING Beetlejuice at the Buell Theatre and I plead guilty to laughing and singing too loud!' she wrote.

'Everyone should go see it if you get the chance this week and please let me know how it ends!'

David B. Wheeler, president of American Muckrakers PAC, Inc, told DailyMail.com, 'While Coloradans and Americans are struggling to make ends meet, Lauren Boebert is out frolicking, literally dancing in the streets, and making an absolute fool of herself.

'I hope her constituents watch the video of her being escorted out of the theater with her new boyfriend where she gives the middle finger to an usher doing his job and aggressively points her finger at another usher.

'What sort of person does this? Isn't it time to fire Bobert and hire someone to get things done for Colorado?'

Boebert has had several firearms-related issues with Capitol Police in Washington, DC, and last summer, her soon-to-be-ex-husband reportedly threatened the family's neighbors.

She recently became a grandmother for the first time, after her teenage son impregnated a woman.

Boebert was herself a teen mother and dropped out of high school during her senior year in 2004 when she got pregnant with Tyler, her oldest.

She had three more sons, including the 2009 birth of Kaydon, which occurred in the front seat of her husband's pickup truck, and made local news.
A man has been found dead beside a church in the Geelong CBD.

Police discovered the body at about 4.30am on Malone St, near Western Beach Rd in Geelong, about 75km southwest of Melbourne, on Friday.

As of 7am, Malone Street remains closed as detectives investigate the scene.

Victoria Police spokeswoman Caitlin Knight said the man's death was being treated as suspicious with the circumstances remaining unclear.

Police have cordoned-off sections of grass adjacent to St. Peter and Paul's Church, located at the intersection of Mercer and Malone streets.

More to come.
As ill-thought-out policies go, Sir Keir Starmer's grand plan to tackle the immigration crisis takes some beating.

It hardly needs an expert human rights lawyer to see that volunteering to accept thousands of asylum seekers from the EU in return for Brussels taking back some of those entering the UK on small boats is a recipe for more immigration, not less.

Under such a plan, Europe would inevitably end up sending us far more migrants than it takes back  something Germany is now discovering to its cost.

Yet just as troubling is what this muddled arrangement would spell for Britain's future relationship with the EU.

Most people would struggle not to interpret Sir Keir's eagerness to re-enter negotiations with the EU as anything other than the first step toward unpicking the hard-fought freedoms we won through Brexit.

As ill-thought-out policies go, Sir Keir Starmer's grand plan to tackle the immigration crisis takes some beating

Indeed, by accepting migrant quotas Labour would be handing Brussels even greater powers over our asylum policy than when we were still in the EU's orbit.

Starmer insists there is 'no case' for rejoining the EU. But as someone who has not only spent his entire career in thrall to the European project but also fought tooth and claw to prevent us leaving, many voters will understandably find his Damascene conversion hard to swallow.

After all, he's flip-flopped enough times on policy already. Why should they believe another word he says?

Our China crisis

The discovery of an alleged Chinese spy operating at the heart of Government demonstrates how badly Britain has underestimated the threat from Beijing.

One only needed to listen to former Foreign Office mandarin Simon McDonald's remarks to the BBC yesterday, in which he claimed MPs had 'over-reacted' to the story, to understand how complacent our officials have become.

In an extraordinary interview, Lord McDonald, whose judgment has already been questioned this week by admitting he informed staff he voted Remain after the EU referendum, not only appeared to justify China's actions but went so far as to claim it should be treated the same as 'friendly' allies such as the US.

Leave aside China's appalling human rights record and its brutal attempts to undermine Hong Kong's autonomy. As our security services have repeatedly warned, it is an aggressive surveillance state that seeks global domination.

In an extraordinary interview, Lord McDonald not only appeared to justify China's actions but went so far as to claim it should be treated the same as 'friendly' allies such as the US

Ministers reacted yesterday to a scathing parliamentary report on the Government's response to the Chinese threat by admitting there was 'more work to be done'. Forgive our scepticism, but such insouciance hardly inspires confidence.

At some point Britain needs to stop being naive and treating China simply as an unreliable friend. It is authoritarian bully hell-bent on harming our democracy.

More pain for patients

Another day, another grim milestone for the NHS.

Waiting lists have reached a record high, with 7.7million patients in England  or one in seven  waiting for routine treatment.

Rishi Sunak has pledged a further 200million for the NHS this winter, but the reality is no amount of money will reduce the sprawling backlog while doctors spitefully continue to abandon their posts in favour of the picket line.

Despite generous pay awards, junior doctors and consultants are set to strike in the coming weeks to secure ever more unrealistic demands that the hard-Left British Medical Association ludicrously insists are about 'protecting the NHS'.

Nonsense. They're about hard cash and toppling the Government. Meanwhile, as ever, it's patients who are made to suffer.
Striding out of Rotterdam airport, Sir Keir Starmer looked like he meant business on his way to discuss Labour's migration policies with the European Union.

But his outfit did not match his demeanour as the Labour leader dressed down in an unbuttoned shirt, jeans and blue Adidas trainers.

At his side was Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper who looked serious in a smart jumpsuit and jacket.

The Europol headquarters in The Hague was the latest stop in a round of appearances that is expected to see Sir Keir meet French president Emmanuel Macron next week, as well as Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau, as he seeks to promote a statesmanlike image.

The visit came as Germany pulled out of an EU migrant resettlement scheme that was meant to see it take thousands of asylum seekers from Italy this year.

Sir Keir Starmer's outfit did not match his demeanour as the Labour leader dressed down in an unbuttoned shirt, jeans and blue Adidas trainers as he left Rotterdam airport

At his side was Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper who looked serious in a smart jumpsuit and jacket

The German interior ministry said it would 'postpone until further notice' its participation in the EU 'burden sharing' scheme that was meant to ease the pressure on countries such as Italy and Greece.

A spokesman said Germany was already facing 'major challenges' in dealing with the number of asylum seekers arriving in the country.

The move is a fresh blow to the EU's efforts to relieve pressure on Italy, Greece, Cyprus and Malta, which receive most of the asylum seekers arriving in the EU.

And Berlin's decision to withdraw from 'burden sharing' undermines Sir Keir's immigration plan as it shows how badly the EU itself remains divided over the scheme.

Although Sir Keir has said Labour is willing to discuss 'burden sharing' with the EU, several EU countries are already resisting it, including Poland, Hungary, Austria, Denmark, Latvia and Slovakia.

The pair's visit came as Germany pulled out of an EU migrant resettlement scheme that was meant to see it take thousands of asylum seekers from Italy this year

Berlin voiced concern that Italy was no longer accepting the return of asylum seekers who land on its shores and then travel on to Germany, which it is meant to under EU rules.

More than 8,000 migrants arrived in Italy in three days, prompting deputy prime minister Matteo Salvini to describe the influx as an 'act of war'.

Mr Salvini said Italy was facing an unprecedented influx. So far this year, 124,000 migrants and refugees have arrived in the country  up from 65,000 in the same period last year.
An exclusive beauty salon frequented by celebrities offers its clients a list of over 40 different pronouns to choose from when booking an appointment.

The Skin Bar, which has salons in some of Sydney's most exclusive suburbs and counts famous faces like Abbie Chatfield and Jesinta Franklin among its fans, lists an astonishing 43 pronouns on its website.

The drop-down menu includes the standard 'he/him', 'she/her' and 'they/them'.

But even the wokest of the woke will have their knowledge tested when trying to decipher which genders 'kit', 'mer', 'ne', 'peh', 'shi' and 'thon' apply to.

On closer inspection, many of the pronouns provided have their origins in science fiction.

Clients also have the option to select up to four pronouns in another bizarre twist.

Natalie Roser (left, with Aisha Jade) attends an event hosted by The Skin Bar in November last year

The Skin Bar, which has clinics across Sydney, offers clients the choice of 43 different pronouns when making a booking

'Ae' is apparently a gender neutral pronoun, which were first used in David Lindsay's 1920 novel 'A Voyage to Arcturus' for an alien race, which appeared human but were formed by air.

'Peh', meanwhile, can be used by anyone regardless of gender identity or expression, with origins in a science fiction comic published on the internet.

Most pronouns on the list, however, originated on Tumblr - a microblogging social media site founded in 2007 and popular with teenage girls.

Terry Barnes, a journalist and political consultant who has written about the topic of pronouns in the past, branded it an 'absurd fad'.

'The thing about pronouns is that they are how others choose to describe us based on what they see,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

'Besides "he" and "she", theres no smorgasbord of pronouns for us to choose from and impose on others.

'If I see you as a woman, youre "she", or "he" if you look like a man. I can respect your out-there pronoun choices out of politeness, but Im not compelled to do so, and resent being forced to do so by the woke gender police.

'This absurd pronoun fad might pander to the latest gender ideology, but it doesnt trump biology and millions of years of human evolution.'

The Skin Bar, which has clinics across Sydney, is popular with the A-list, including model Simone Holtznagel

The Skin Bar founder Samantha Appel admitted it was 'lot of pronouns indeed'.

'We are a modern skin clinic and in this modern world, we choose to be as inclusive as possible,' she said.

'Our culture is never to be unkind to those who wish to identify by their pronoun of choice.

'Our booking platform Timely, has these pronouns integrated, and we simply chose to include all.'

The Skin Bar has five branches across Sydney including locations at Bondi, Double Bay and Rozelle.

The company focusses on skin needling, a treatment that involves spiking the skin with very sharp needles to promote growth and regeneration.

Its converts include the likes of model Simone Holtznagel and radio presenter Abbie Chatfield.
Farmers have been warned some of their livelihoods will become unviable under an SNP drive to make the country more eco-friendly.

The Just Transition Commission, which advises ministers on plans to cut emissions, said difficult and honest conversations about the future of agriculture need to happen now.

In a report, the independent expert group warned some types of farming could become unfeasible because of how environmentally damaging they are.

It also said some farmers feel left in the dark about the changes needed to meet green targets and urged ministers for honesty on the scale and type of changes ahead.

Critics say Scottish farmers have been left in dark by SNP-Green coalition

They are also said to feel demonised, disempowered, lacking agency and blamed for climate change despite having done everything asked of them.

The biggest emitters within the sector are beef, dairy and sheep farming, with high levels of methane from cows and sheep contributing to global warming.

The commission has said ministers need to have difficult conversations with farming and agriculture communities about the impact their policies are likely to have.

Critics have said farmers are in the dark and worried the SNP-led administration will fail to meet their needs, leaving their futures uncertain.

Scottish Conservative shadow rural affairs secretary Rachael Hamilton: This damning report makes it clear that Scotlands farmers are still being kept in the dark by the SNP-Green government.

They are crying out for ministers to outline what future support will look like.

The sector are already playing a huge role in helping to drive towards achieving ambitious net zero targets, but need to know ministers are on their side.

Right now, they are increasingly worried that the SNP-Green government will fail to meet their needs and many farming businesses will simply not be sustainable going forward.

Scottish Conservative rural affairs secretary Rachael Hamilton demanded clarity from the SNP

The report warns: The environmental objectives must be clearly specified, as well as the changes that will be required to achieve these, particularly those that will make some of todays livelihoods unviable, including some that are deeply culturally embedded.

It also said a communication vacuum from the government has left many farmers and land managers oblivious to potentially devastating changes that could be looming for the sector.

Ministers are now being told that delays to difficult conversations and prolonged ambiguity pose a major threat to whether farmers cooperate to help cut carbon emissions.

The organisation indicated there was major change ahead but little clarity on policy direction, demands and specifics.

The report stated: Communications around the Scottish Governments agricultural policy reform route-map have not reached everyone.

This results in heightened concerns and misinformation that needs to be countered.

NFU President, Martin Kennedy has argued that the nationalist government's policies are hindering efforts to be more environmentally friendly

Future support needs to recognise that significant change is being asked of the sector whilst the agricultural support budget is declining in real terms.

The just transition approach needs to be clearly communicated so that common ground can be established around clear locally relevant social, economic and environmental goals, with specific actions to protect vulnerable groups such as tenant farmers and crofters.

The President of the National Farming Union (NFU) Scotland Martin Kennedy has previously argued that anti-business policies from Scotlands nationalist government are hindering efforts to be more environmentally friendly.

Mr Kennedy warned that punishing policies and a lack of support for producers are having a damaging effect on food producers - and would lead to more imports of products produced with lower standards.

He said: We all know that we need to be as green as possible - weve got climate change, weve got biodiversity to address.

But I think the issue is that theres a lack of understanding of how clean we already are in Scotland and I think business is so important.

Unless you help businesses in a profitable situation is very hard for businesses to do more.
Advertisement

Some of the most powerful people in America assembled in Washington, DC, today to help shape the future of artificial intelligence (AI) safeguards.

The unprecedented meeting took place as the US Senate gears up to draft legislation that will regulate the rapidly advancing AI industry, which many of the world's best minds fear could destroy humanity if left unchecked.

The gathering brought 22 of the most influential voices in the tech sector - who had a combined net worth of over $400billion - and 100 senators under one roof, bridging the gap between Silicon Valley and the nation's capital.

The high-profile event included notorious AI critic Elon Musk, who today called for tighter regulation of AI, as well as Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates and the CEOs of Google and IBM.

The private meeting was a crash course for legislators on how best to regulate AI: a technical achievement which some of these same industry leaders likened to the 'extinction'-level risk of nuclear weapons.

Those who fear AI fear it could surpass human intelligence and develop independent thinking. This means it would no longer need or listen to humans, in a worst-case scenario stealing nuclear codes, create pandemics and spark world wars.

So, who was at the meeting?

Some of the most powerful people in America assembled in Washington, DC , today to help shape the future of artificial intelligence ( AI ) safeguards. From left, they are: Janet Murguia, the president of Unidos US, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that serves as the nation's largest Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization; Elon Musk, the man who needs no introduction; Labor federation chief Liz Shuler; Charles Rivkin represented cinema, where many believe AI could write, direct and produce entire movies from scratch; Sam Altman, the brains behind ChatGPT; Sundar Pichai, the boss of Google; Satya Nadella, Bill Gates' successor; Rumman Chowdhury, CEO of Humane Intelligence; Jensen-Huang, the boss of AI pioneers and PC parts company Nvidia; Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook inventor; and IBM boss Arvnid Kirshna.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk - Net worth: $268.5 billion

In additional to his reputation for massive wealth, Elon Musk is known for his influential role in AI.

As the CEO of Tesla, he has been a driving force behind the development of autonomous vehicles, pushing the boundaries of AI in the automotive industry with features like Tesla's Autopilot.

The 52-year-old has also been a vocal advocate for AI safety and has co-founded OpenAI to ensure responsible AI development.

After the meeting with US lawmakers today, Musk has been a vocal proponent of AI safety, and said a 'referee' is needed to monitor systems.

X (formerly Twitter) CEO Elon Musk leaves a US Senate bipartisan Artificial Intelligence (AI) Insight Forum at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on September 13

Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg - Net worth: $109 billion

Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook), oversees one of the world's leading social media and tech conglomerates, including: Instagram, Threads, Facebook and WhatsApp.

While AI plays a crucial role in Meta's operations, including content recommendations and augmented reality, Zuckerberg has also ventured into AI research with projects like Jarvis, his personal AI assistant.

Meta introduced Llama 2, a model similar to ChatGPT, that could challenge what is one of the fastest-growing apps of all time. At the conference today, the 39-year-old pushed for 'open source' technology, arguing that open-sourcing infrastructure will minimize potential safety risks and maximize access.

Facebook co-founder and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg sits in his seat inside a bipartisan Artificial Intelligence (AI) Insight Forum at the Capitol in Washington, September 13

Google, Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai - Net worth: $1.3 billion

As the CEO of Alphabet, Sundar Pichai, 51, manages Google's parent company, which is at the forefront of AI research. Google's AI innovations range from improving search algorithms to pioneering developments in natural language processing with products like Google Assistant.

Pichai told Wired that he is not in a rush to catch up on OpenAI. He said releasing Google's AI products before ChatGPT was launched 'wouldn't have worked out as well.'

Sundar Pichai, Chief Executive Officer, Alphabet (parent company of Google and YouTube), appears at the United States Senate Bipartisan Artificial Intelligence (AI) Forum in the Kennedy Caucus Room on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Wednesday, September 13

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman: $250 million

Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, is arguably the most powerful person in AI development today. The future of AI will be impacted by his beliefs and actions.

The 38-year-old has played a central role in advancing AI safeguards. Under his leadership, OpenAI has focused on creating AI technologies that attempt to benefit society, including notable features like GPT-3.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, leaves the 'AI Insight Forum' at the Russell Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on September 13, in Washington, DC

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang: $40 billion

Jensen Huang, the CEO of Nvidia, has steered the company towards AI dominance. Nvidia's GPUs are pivotal in accelerating AI workloads, powering everything from deep learning research to AI-driven gaming experiences. The 60-year-old founded Nvidia in 1993, which originally worked to create increasingly immersive video games. Today, Nvidia is the world's 'dominant producer of the microprocessors that power the AI revolution,' according to the Atlantic, pushing Nvidia's stock to skyrocket nearly 200 percent over the past year to reach a $1.1 trillion valuation.

CEO Jensen Huang arrives for the the Senate bipartisan Artificial Intelligence (AI) Insight Forum in the Russell Senate Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, USA, 13 September

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella: $320 million

Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, has overseen the company's significant investments in AI. Microsoft Azure's AI services, as well as the acquisition of LinkedIn and GitHub, have solidified Microsoft's position as a key player in AI development and cloud services. Nadella, 56, believes the benefits of AI far outweigh potential consequences. He told Wired that he can't imagine life without AI.

The United States Senate Bipartisan Artificial Intelligence (AI) Forum in the Kennedy Caucus Room on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC

IBM CEO Arvind Krishna: $42 million

Arvind Krishna, CEO of IBM, has led the company in AI and quantum computing endeavors. IBM's Watson AI platform has been a trailblazer in AI applications across various industries, from healthcare to finance. Krishna, 61, is a strong supporter of the future of AI, claiming 'the world needs AI to help offset productivity losses because of declines in the working age population,' according to Fortune. While he believe white-collar jobs will be among the first to be impacted by AI, he ultimately says AI will create more jobs than it will replace.

IBM CEO Arvind Krishna arrives for the the Senate bipartisan Artificial Intelligence (AI) Insight Forum in the Russell Senate Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on September 13

Former Microsoft CEO Bill Gates: $129 billion

Bill Gates, the former CEO of Microsoft, has been a long-standing advocate for technology and AI. Although he stepped down from his CEO role, Gates continues to be involved in philanthropic efforts, including funding AI research to address global challenges like healthcare and climate change. The 67-year-old believes AI has potential to change the future of health and education. He said could transform production systems worldwide, according to CNBC.

Co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Bill Gates (C) departs after joining other tech leaders at the Senate bipartisan Artificial Intelligence (AI) Insight Forum

AFL-CIO labor federation President Liz Shuler

Today, Shuler argued that workers must be central to AI policy. Ahead of the meeting, Shuler, 53, released a statement expressing her concern for workers: 'Public support for unions is at near record highs because workers are tired of being guinea pigs in an AI live experiment. The labor movement knows AI can empower workers and increase prosperity  but only if workers are centered in its creation and the rules that govern it.'

AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler speaks to members of the news media after leaving the Senate bipartisan Artificial Intelligence (AI) Insight Forum in the Russell Senate Building

Some additional top tech tycoons who were summoned before Congress:

Charles Rivkin, the chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association; Janet Murguia, the president of Unidos US; Rumman Chowdhury, CEO of Humane Intelligence; Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google and Chair of the Special Competitive Studies Project; Gary Kelly executive chairman of the board, Southwest Airlines; Clement Delangue, CEO of Hugging Face; and Maya Wiley, the president and CEO of the Leadership Conference on Civil & Human Rights.
MailOnline lifts the lid on four other dogs that have a wild ancestry

Known for their loyal temperament, it's no secret that dogs are man's best friend.

But would this hold true for hybrids born to the parents of domestic and wild animals?

Just yesterday, the first ever fox-dog hybrid - called a 'dogxim' - was officially confirmed in Brazil.

But this isn't the only case of a wild cross, with wolfdogs, jackal-dogs and even coydogs living among us.

So, take a look, as MailOnline lifts the lid on why many of these curious species exist.

1. Wolfdog

As the name suggests, this hybrid shares the bloodline of both wolves and domestic dogs.

These species can mate thanks to their 'interfertility', which means they share very similar physical characteristics and a not-so-different evolutionary past.

But don't get it twisted, any 'first generation wolfdog pup' that has a direct wolf parent is illegal to own in the UK unless you have a special licence.

Czechoslovakians (pictured) and Saarloos are the two main types of wolfdog found in the UK

Two more distant ancestors of the wolf can be owned whether you have this licence or not (Pictured: European Grey Wolf)

READ MORE: How WOLVES can co-operate with humans just like dogs Advertisement

However, you may be surprised to know that two more distant ancestors of the wolf can be owned whether you have this licence or not.

This includes the Czechoslovakian and Saarloos, which are usually the product of wolves and German Shepherds or Huskies.

Despite this, the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) warns that wolfdogs have an incredibly different temperament to typical dogs.

'Wolfdogs need a lot of space to run and be able to fulfil all their wild behaviours  they need much more exercise and attention than a domestic dog,' the veterinary charity said.

'They can be difficult to train and crave the company of a "pack", so are not a breed to be left home alone. Like their wild ancestors, you can expect Wolfdogs to be very vocal.'

It's understood that a wolfdog is also far less likely to seek approval from their owner and may even be aggressive.

Only experienced handlers without families are therefore advised by the PDSA to own wolfdogs.

2. Fox-dog

This fox-dog hybrid - known as a 'dogxim' - was found in Brazil after being hit by a car

Just yesterday, the world's first fox-dog hybrid was confirmed in Brazil.

The animal was discovered after being hit by a car around two years ago, but vets couldn't figure out whether the young female was a dog or a fox.

Extensive genetic tests have since revealed that she was half-and-half, as her mother was a pampas fox and her father was a domestic dog.

Sadly, the pup has now died, but experts believe that many more 'dogxims' like this may exist in the wild.

'She was an amazing animal, really a hybrid between a pampas fox and a dog,' conservationist Flavia Ferrari told The Telegraph.

While the young hybrid moved like a fox and ate live rodents, she barked like a dog and even played with toys.

Ms Ferrari continued: 'It was not as docile as a dog, but it also lacked the aggressiveness expected of a wild canid when handled.'

3. Jackal-dog

The Shalaika dog is a jackal and Reindeer Husky hybrid that was first bred by Klim Sulimov, a renowned Russian biologist.

These half-and-half species have inherited a unique set of characteristics, including an impressive sense of smell and a resilience in freezing climates.

As a result, more than 50 pups were deployed in 2019 to sniff out bombs in Moscow for Russia's airline Aeroflot.

This jackal-dog hybrid has been deployed in Russia to sniff out explosives at a Moscow airport

The Russian Shalaika dog is a jackal and Reindeer Husky (pictured) hybrid

READ MORE: The most AGGRESSIVE dog breeds revealed Advertisement

'Aeroflots dog handlers presented the dogs and showed videos about the training process as well as the Companys own recent development  the olfactory monitoring system,' the airline said.

'Finding explosives is the key duty of the Shalaikas. Everyday dog handlers and dogs patrol the airport and inspect planes to ensure safety.

'Due to their sharp sense of smell Shalaika sniffer dogs have proven to be much more reliable than any kind of equipment designed to detect explosives.'

While jackals bear similarities to wolves, they are often half the size with a body length of around 31 inches.

Some jackals also live off a mix of hunted prey and plants, while wolves are predominantly carnivorous.

'Building on the successes of its dog service, Aeroflot introduced olfactory monitoring  a hardware and software system that includes special gear for dogs to help identify the nature of substances they detect and transmit information to an operators computer,' the airline continued.

'Olfactory monitoring also allows for remote analysis of an air environment.'

4. Dingo-dog

It's believed that the Australian Cattle Dog (pictured) is distantly related to the dingo

The dingo is an ancient breed of wild dog that has lived in Australia for thousands of years

A dingo is an ancient breed of wild dog that may have lived in Australia from as far back as 4,000 years.

While it's often disputed whether a dingo can be domesticated, the wild dog was interbred with a tame Blue Merle during the 1800s.

This produced what is now referred to as the Australian Cattle Dog, with the species often used to herd animals on farmland.

Unlike wolfdogs, these are widely known to be good with children but can be suspicious and even aggressive towards strangers.

In 2015, The Mail On Sunday's Personal Finance Editor was mauled by a dog of this breed in an unprovoked attack that put him in hospital.

5. Coydog

In 1977, it was determined that two major coydog species exist, including the Canis latrans and C. familiaris

Typically, coyotes (pictured) are larger than jackals but smaller than wolves, with long brushy tails and light-coloured coats

Put simply, this hybrid is the offspring of both a coyote and a domestic dog which are generally found in the US.

But biologist Kent McFarland of the Vemont Centre, claims the true picture is often far murkier than this.

'Depending on where you sample in the Northeast, it's somewhere around 60 to 80 percent of their gene pool is made up of coyote genes, somewhere around 10 to 25 percent is wolf genes and something less than 10 percent ends up being domestic dog genes,' he told Vermont Public.

'So we're talking about an animal that is mostly coyote, a bit wolf and a tiny bit domestic dog.'

Typically, coyotes are larger than jackals but smaller than wolves, with long brushy tails and light-coloured coats.

In 1977, it was determined that two major coydog species exist, including the Canis latrans and C. familiaris.

These have predominantly grown up in captivity, according to the Urban Coyote Research Project.
NASA has created a new UFO research division that will continue studying the phenomena even though the space agency has ruled out aliens - for now.

The landmark report, which covered hundreds of cases of unidentified objects or phenomena in our skies, was published today after being commissioned by the space agency last year.

The 16-expert advisory panel stressed that there is 'no reason to conclude' that any of the sightings have been alien in origin - however, the panel did warn that mysterious flying objects were a 'self-evident' threat to American airspace.

Even though they poured cold water on the extraterrestrial (ET) hypothesis, NASA's experts did not deny the possibility of a 'potential unknown alien technology operating in Earth's atmosphere.'

Their 33-page report called for NASA to utilize its technological might to continue studying UFOs because many cases remain unsolved - and researchers still have no idea what some of these sightings are.

NASA chief Bill Nelson announced that a new director for UFO research would help the space agency implement the panel's recommendations.

But the person now in that role, who is already hard at work, was not named publicly due to threats made online.

Above, a weather balloon careens through the air following its release from the Cape Canaveral weather station in Florida. NASA's panel included this image in their report as an example of the striking, highly unusual objects that nevertheless have a terrestrial explanation

But NASA did admit to cases that remain baffling, including this 'metallic orb' recorded by an MQ-9 Reaper drone in the Mid East, first presented to Congress by Pentagon physicist Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick. NASA's report today said, 'Due to limited data, the object remains unidentified'

The NASA advisory panel's unprecedented new report, which comes as UFO fever has reached a tipping point in the US, analyzed more than 800 cases across three decades - albeit with a budget of just $100,000 and only about nine months to conduct their work.

The panel noted that, to date, most UFO sightings are recorded with sensors and other equipment intended for nonscientific purposes, under accidental or 'serendipitous' circumstances that are far from ideal.

Evidence from nearly all UFO cases, in other words, was not collected with enough scientific rigor for experts to reach reliable conclusions in the panel's view.

'Coupled with incomplete data archiving and curation,' the NASA panel wrote, 'this means that the origin of numerous UAP [UFOs] remain uncertain.'

But the panel did mostly explain away one famous case, the US Navy's 'GOFAST' UFO video: 'We find the object moved about 390 meters during this 22-second interval,' the NASA panel said, 'which corresponds to an average speed of 40 mph.'

'This is a typical wind speed at 13,000 feet,' the panel wrote in their final report, concluding the UFO was probably a terrestrial, balloon-like object 'most likely drifting with the wind.'

NASA's panel of 16 experts, however, had not been assembled to ascertain the whole truth about every UFO case in less than a year's time.

The advisory panel was primarily tasked with the goal of recommending new investigative avenues for future UFO research  advising on how best the US space agency's own tools could aid in the search for ET visitation.

NASA announced last year that it would review evidence regarding unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs), more commonly known as unidentified flying objects (UFOs).

For the purposes of their study, the panel defined UAP as sightings 'that cannot be identified as aircraft or known natural phenomena from a scientific perspective.'

Long-awaited: In their final report, the NASA team elaborated that, in their scientific view, the bar for proof of extraterrestrial visitors to Earth must be kept high, 'the answer we turn to only after ruling out all other possibilities'

In their final report issued today, the NASA team elaborated that, in their scientific view, the bar for proof of extraterrestrial visitors to our planet must be kept high.

'In the search for life beyond Earth, extraterrestrial life itself must be the hypothesis of last resort,' the panel wrote, 'the answer we turn to only after ruling out all other possibilities.'

'As Sherlock Holmes said, 'Once you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, no matter how improbable, must be the truth.''

During the question and answer session that followed the release of their report, the head of NASA's UAP advisory panel, astrophysicist David Spergel cautioned that more work will be needed to collect data on UAP, a process which he said has been marred by 'a limited sample of events' and 'limited data.'

'Stigma has limited reporting by pilots, both civilian and military,' Spergel noted. 'So we know there's missing data.'

Back in May, NASA's independent study team shared their preliminary observations  that up to 98 per cent of reported UAP sightings can be explained away.

Just 2 to 5 percent are considered 'possibly really anomalous', the panel added, but a lack of high-quality data is hampering researchers' ability to apply 'rigorous scientific scrutiny' to the mystery-solving.

These genuinely unexplained UAPs are defined as 'anything that is not readily understandable by the operator or the sensor,' or 'something that is doing something weird,' said team member Nadia Drake earlier this year.

NASA's panel leader David Spergel echoed those comments today - adding 'even if there are some events that, in the end, turn out to be something novel, most events are going to turn out to be conventional things: balloons, airplanes, and so on.'

Feedback: In May, NASA's independent study team (pictured) revealed their preliminary observations  that up to 98 per cent of reported UAP sightings can be explained away

One sighting from Southeast Asia that NASA did have a provisional explanation for involved a UAP that appeared to warp and compress the air around it, a process called cavitation. They concluded the unusual effect was 'likely a sensor artifact resulting from video compression'

While it had always been unlikely that today's report would provide ground-breaking new information not already revealed at the panel's first public meeting in May, the event did usher in the start of a new mission for the US space agency.

NASA administrator Bill Nelson announced the creation of a dedicated new position at the space agency: director of UAP research.

Nelson said that the newly appointed director will be tasked with developing and leading 'the implementation of NASA's vision for UAP research.'

'We want to shift the conversation about UAPs from sensationalism to science,' Nelson said.

But the panel was guarded as to actual identity of NASA's new UAP chief, with Spergel citing 'nasty and hostile' elements of the UFO 'fringe' who have 'behaved badly' and 'harassed' panel members on social media.

While NASA's probes and rovers currently scour the solar system for any signs of alien life, its historic posture has been to 'debunk' sightings on our home planet.

But today, NASA's panel acknowledged that its international suite of sensors and satellites do not actually collect data of Earth at the level of detail needed to spot the average-sized UFO  as opposed to the less frequent but reportedly massive UAP like the infamous 1997 Phoenix Lights.

'We looked at NASA's assets,' Spergel said.

'While they provide a comprehensive picture of the ocean, the Earth's surface and atmosphere for studying our evolving planet,' he pointed out, 'they typically do not have the resolution needed for UAP events.'

Spergel expressed the hope that these systems could nevertheless be used to better understand the ways that normal, terrestrial phenomena could appear unusual, so the signal of true 'out of this world' anomalies could be pulled out from the noise.

'If you want to find something strange in a haystack,' Spergel said, 'you better know exactly what hay looks like.'

'You need to know what typical, regular things look like, under all conditions.'

Interesting: Earlier this year the Department of Defense released a document disclosing the 'world's UFO hotspots'. It includes a map showing where the most sightings of unidentified objects have been recorded, based on reports between 1996 and 2023

Classified report: NASA's study is separate to the Pentagon's investigation into UAPs (pictured)

The mere existence of NASA's advisory panel on UAP reflects a sea change in how seriously the US government has approached these airborne mysteries in recent years, in part due to concern that some could be related to foreign surveillance.

But the issue of aviation safety, for both commercial and military pilots, has also helped drastically change the conversation on UFOs in recent years.

The reality of these pilots' UAP reports, as NASA's assistant deputy associate administrator for research, Dan Evans, explained today, 'raises serious concerns about the safety of our skies.'

'The threat to US airspace safety posed by UAP is self-evident,' NASA's panel concluded in their new report.

The panel added that it sees promise in future 'systematic, evidenced-based' data collection on UAP via the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS), which is already jointly administered by NASA.

'This confidential and voluntary reporting system for pilots, air traffic controllers, and other professional aviation staff, receives approximately 100,000 reports per year,' the new NASA report said.

'Although not initially designed for UAP collection,' the panel wrote, 'better harnessing it for commercial pilot UAP reporting would provide a critical database.'

Notably, NASA's study is separate from the Pentagon's investigation into UAPs, which saw US lawmakers hear first-hand accounts of UFO sightings from former members of the military earlier this year.

That Pentagon study, led by the Defense Department's new All-Domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) and directed by Pentagon physicist Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick, has received 350 reports of UFOs in the past two years.

Almost half, or precisely 171 of those UFO cases, remain unexplained.

Although their is cross-collaboration, the US space agency's panel is focused on the civilian, unclassified side of this effort, while AARO leads the charge on examining UAPs in coordination with the intelligence and military communities.

NASA's report included images of unusual, but earthbound phenomena that could be mistaken for ET, including this rare type of lightning known as a red sprite (left). The study had less civilian data like this UAP near Japan's Senganmori mountain from the International UFO Lab

For its advisory panel, NASA put together an independent team of 16 scientific, aeronautic, and 'machine learning' data analysis experts with the aim of probing UAP sightings from a logical and scientific perspective.

'We have access to a broad range of observations of Earth from space  and that is the lifeblood of scientific inquiry,' the space agency's Thomas Zurbuchen said last year before the study began.

'We have the tools and team who can help us improve our understanding of the unknown. That's the very definition of what science is. That's what we do.'

The NASA panel's report, which was published at 9:30 ET (14:30) this morning, was followed by a media briefing at NASA's headquarters in Washington that began at 10:00 ET (15:00), during which the panel discussed its findings.

The press conference was streamed live on NASA Television, the NASA app, and the agency's website here.

'We recognize that public interest in UAPs is high, and that the demand for answers is strong,' Dan Evans, the NASA official in charge of the study, said this past May.

'It is now our collective responsibility to investigate these occurrences with the rigorous scientific scrutiny that they deserve.'

He added: 'All of NASA's data is available to the public  we take that obligation seriously  and we make it easily accessible for anyone to see or study.'
It was an announcement that shocked the world.

Two apparently 'non-human' alien corpses dating back 1,000 years had been found preserved in a Peruvian mine.

With their small bodies, three-fingered hands and strange elongated skulls, the mummified specimens looked like a cross between humans and the extraterrestrial creature from the movie E.T.

Even more bizarre is that their internal cavities also allegedly contained implants of rare metals and eggs.

The 'aliens' were officially unveiled at Mexico's Congress as politicians held their first ever hearing on UFOs, but was everything as it seemed? MailOnline takes a look.

Bombshell announcement: Two 'aliens' were officially unveiled at Mexico 's Congress (pictured) as politicians held their first ever hearing on UFOs , but was everything as it seemed? MailOnline takes a look

Similarities: With their small bodies, three-fingered hands and a strange elongated skull, the mummified specimens looked like a cross between humans and the extraterrestrial creature from the movie E.T.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE ALLEGED ALIENS Appearance: Small bodies, three-fingered hands and a strange elongated skull Age: More than 1,000 years old Found: In the city of Cusco, Peru in 2017 Preserved in: A Peruvian mine DNA: Unknown Additional info: Their internal cavities contained rare metals and eggs Advertisement

What was claimed?

The alleged aliens were presented in Mexico City by Jaime Maussan, a journalist and so-called 'ufologist' who has previously claimed to have found extraterrestrial remains.

He told politicians that the strange little corpses, which were displayed in satin-lined makeshift coffins, had been found in the city of Cusco, Peru, in 2017.

Maussan also testified under oath that almost a third of their DNA was 'unknown' and the specimens were not part of 'our terrestrial evolution'.

He said X-rays had shown one to have eggs inside.

'This is the first time extraterrestrial life is presented in such a form and I think there is a clear demonstration that we are dealing with non-human specimens that are not related to any other species in our world and that any scientific institution can investigate it,' Maussan said.

'We are not alone.'

The ufologist also claimed that the remains had been studied and radiocarbon-dated by scientists at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), which showed them to be more than 1,000 years old.

Jose de Jesus Zalce Benitez, the director of the Scientific Institute for Health of the Mexican navy, also said that X-rays, 3D reconstruction and DNA analysis had been carried out on the specimens.

He added: 'I can affirm that these bodies have no relation to human beings.'

Peculiar: The body, presented in a satin-lined makeshift coffin, was seen with three fingers on its hand

Testing: Researchers claimed that the remains had been studied and radiocarbon-dated by scientists at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), which showed them to be more than 1,000 years old

What did the politicians say?

Representatives of Mexico's Congress said the presentation had left them with 'thoughts' and 'concerns' and with the view to 'continue talking about this'.

The country's first hearing into UFOs was announced by Mexican politician Sergio Gutierrez Luna, who is a friend of Maussan.

He said he believed it could lead to 'legislation on unidentified aerial phenomena'.

Gutierrez added: 'Mexico must put itself at the forefront and listen to all voices and all opinions.

'I have said it on many occasions, this is the house of the people  Chamber of Deputies. Here everyone is welcome.'

Reaction: Representatives of Mexico's Congress (pictured) said the presentation had left them with 'thoughts' and 'concerns' and with the view to 'continue talking about this'

How did scientists react?

Largely with disbelief and ridicule.

For a start, it was pointed out that if the UNAM had carried out such analysis it would be published in a journal and peer-reviewed, which it hasn't been.

'If this was real, we'd see proper scientific data and evidence being presented by experts, published in papers that would be appearing in peer-reviewed journals like Nature or Science,' astronomer Michael Garrett, a professor at the University of Manchester, told MailOnline.

'Other scientists would be scrutinizing the data and forming their own independent analysis  that's how science works.'

In a statement published two days before Maussan appeared in front of Congress, the UNAM did not directly confirm or deny his bombshell claims.

But it added: 'Just as detectives carefully analyze the crime scene looking for evidence, scientists meticulously analyze the data obtained in observatories.

'The most interested in the search for extraterrestrial life are scientists and we will continue to look for it with the rigor that science demands. Quoting Carl Sagan: "Extraordinary statements require extraordinary evidence".'

Ufologist: Jaime Maussan (pictured main yesterday) comes with somewhat of a reputation. In 2015, he claimed that a different mummified body found near Nazca in Peru was also an alien, only for this to be debunked when it was later was shown to be a human child

One of the university's researchers was much more scathing, however.

Julieta Fierro said many details about the figures 'made no sense' and added that claims her university endorsed Maussan's supposed discovery were false.

She also stressed that scientists would need more advanced technology than the X-rays claimed to have been used to determine if the allegedly calcified bodies were indeed 'non-human'.

'Maussan has done many things. He told me extraterrestrials do not talk to me like they talk to him because I don't believe in them,' Fierro said.

It is true that Maussan comes with somewhat of a reputation.

In 2015, he claimed that a different mummified body found near Nazca in Peru was also an alien, only for this to be debunked when it was later was shown to be a human child.

After he paraded his latest 'discoveries' before Mexico's Congress, some scientists were quick to suggest the specimens were actually human remains which had been 'maliciously manipulated and even mutilated... for commercial exploitation'.

Professor Garrett added: 'I'm not sure what the Mexican Congress is thinking about giving this kind of drivel airtime.

'Everyone is interested in the question of whether there are other forms of intelligent life "out there" but some people seem to lose all sense of rationality when very poor evidence is presented to them.

'We all "want to believe" but belief must be based on solid scientific facts  this isn't it.'

Well-known physicist Brian Cox was also asked about the claims on X (formerly Twitter).

View: Well-known physicist Brian Cox was also asked about the claims on X, formally Twitter

'My immediate response  they are way too humanoid,' he said. 'It's very unlikely that an intelligent species that evolved on another planet would look like us.

'Secondly  send a sample off to 23andme  let alone the University down the road - and they'll tell you within 10 minutes.'

However, elsewhere renowned American astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson did not rule out that specimens could be real.

Speaking on Piers Morgan Uncensored on TalkTV, he said: 'If those are actual aliens that would be amazing.

Tyson added: 'But in science you need verification from independent sources, so what they should do... is share the data with other laboratories. And when you have agreement among what is measured, then you can talk about a discovery.'

So what is the truth?

Well, the fundamental problem with Maussan's claims is that these so-called 'alien' mummies have already been debunked by scientists  two years before he presented them to Mexico's Congress.

A team of experts put together by Alexander Sokolov from the Scientists Against Myths YouTube vlog found that the bodies were actually made of a 'hodgepodge of human and animal bones'.

One of them was found to have a thigh bone where its upper arm bone should be, while its head was thought to have been created from the rear part of a llama or alpaca skull.

Explanation: The so-called 'alien' mummies have already been debunked by scientists  two years before Maussan presented them to Mexico's Congress. Their heads are thought to have been created from the rear part of a llama or alpaca skull (depicted)

The team said it appeared that the facial part of the skull had been broken off, leaving just the brain case. This was then spun around to form the front of the 'alien' head.

'Comparison shows that the reptiloid's cranial cavity fits perfectly the skull cavity of the llama,' said Sokolov in his 2021 YouTube documentary.

'The location of the olfactory bulbs, the inner ear, the brain hemispheres and the little brain, precisely matches those in the llama skull.'

The oddities didn't stop there.

Researchers said a thigh bone in one of the specimens was a human femur, but that it had been placed upside down. The other thigh bone was a tibia from the lower part of a human leg.

UFO expert: Ryan Graves, a former US Navy pilot who in July claimed the number of UFOs was being 'grossly underreported', was in attendance to hear Maussan's original claims to the Mexican Congress

Furious: However, he later said he was 'deeply disappointed by this unsubstantiated stunt'

This would have made it impossible for the 'alien' to walk.

Not only that, but several of its fingers had been placed upside down, too.

What has Maussan said in response?

In a follow-up press conference today, the ufologist said he was disappointed by the backlash from scientists and an American UFO specialist.

Ryan Graves, a former US Navy pilot who in July claimed the number of UFOs was being 'grossly underreported', was in attendance to hear Maussan's original claims to the Mexican Congress.

But he later said he was 'deeply disappointed by this unsubstantiated stunt'.

Dr Benitez, meanwhile, warned sceptics calling the 'discovery' a hoax to be mindful that their claims could destroy his life's work.

He challenged scientists to take samples of the alleged alien bodies and carry out their own research.

When and whether this will be possible, however, remains to be seen.
Seeing the Northern Lights is something that features on many people's bucket lists.

And if you're lucky, you could tick it off your list tonight.

A photographer couldn't believe his luck when he snapped spectacular photos of the aurora from Cornwall last night.

Ross Jennings, from Camborne in Cornwall, posted the photos on his Facebook page, writing: 'These Pillars really flared up for about 10 minutes... and I'm pretty sure it's the strongest I've ever seen them.'

If you missed them, there's good news, as the Met Office says there's a chance the stunning display will be out again tonight.

A photographer snapped spectacular photos of the aurora from Cornwall last night

Mr Jennings was alerted to the Northern Lights 'last minute', and quickly headed out at around midnight to Hells Mouth Coastal Walk to try to snap them

Where to see Northern Lights tonight If you missed last night's display, the good news is that the Met Office says there's a chance it will be visible for many Britons again tonight. 'A minor enhancement to the auroral oval is likely in the coming days, most notably on 14-15 Sep,' the Met Office explained. 'Aurora may become visible to the naked eye along the northern horizon from Scotland (where skies are clear) and perhaps briefly Northern Ireland and Northern England. 'Activity likely subsiding from 16 Sep.' Advertisement

Mr Jennings was alerted to the Northern Lights 'last minute', and quickly headed out at around midnight to Hells Mouth Coastal Walk to try to snap them.

'After catching an Aurora alert at the last minute, full of snot and freezing cold I headed out to the North Cliffs,' he posted on his Facebook page. 'And it didn't disappoint...'

His stunning photos show the magical pink, yellow and blue lights in the night sky, while the waves lapped the shore below him.

Several viewers expressed their delight at the images, with one calling the photos 'absolutely gorgeous', and another adding his early start was 'so worth it.'

While auroras are best seen at night, they're actually caused by the Sun.

Solar storms on the sun's surface give out huge clouds of electrically charged particles, with some travelling millions of miles to eventually collide with Earth.

While most particles are deflected away, some are captured in the Earth's magnetic field, accelerating down towards the north and south poles into the atmosphere.

'These particles then slam into atoms and molecules in the Earth's atmosphere and essentially heat them up,' said Tom Kerss, an astronomer at the Royal Observatory.

If you missed last night's display, the good news is that the Met Office says there's a chance it will be visible for many Britons again tonight

'We call this physical process "excitation", but it's very much like heating a gas and making it glow.'

Here on Earth, what we are seeing are atoms and molecules in our atmosphere colliding with particles from the Sun.

The aurora's characteristic wavy patterns and 'curtains' of light are caused by the lines of force in the Earth's magnetic field.

If you missed last night's display, the good news is that the Met Office says there's a chance it will be visible for many Britons again tonight.

'A minor enhancement to the auroral oval is likely in the coming days, most notably on 14-15 Sep,' The Met Office explained.

'Aurora may become visible to the naked eye along the northern horizon from Scotland (where skies are clear) and perhaps briefly Northern Ireland and Northern England.

'Activity likely subsiding from 16 Sep.'
Regulators in Germany and Belgium are set to review potential health risks linked to Apple's iPhone 12, two days after France banned device sales over radiation fears.

French watchdogs revealed Tuesday that testing of the smartphone showed radiofrequency energy absorbed by the body exceeded legal levels by 40 percent.

Apple contested the French findings, saying the iPhone 12 was certified by multiple international bodies as compliant with radiation standards.

But now Germany and Belgium regulators said they could follow France's lead, as Italy and Spain monitor the situation.

The French watchdogs came to the claims after carrying out random tests on 141 phones, including the iPhone 12.

Regulators in Germany and Belgium are set to review potential health risks linked to Apple's iPhone 12, one day after France banned device sales over radiation fears

The number of iPhone 12s, specifically, sold in Europe is unknown, but Apple reported net sales of $68.64 million in 2020 when the model was released - a total of 100 million units were sold worldwide.

However, if the research proves true, it would place the iPhone well above the highest-known emitters like the Motorola Edge and ZTE Axon 11 5G.

EU law sets limits for the specific absorption rate (Sar), which measures the amount of energy absorbed by the body when exposed to radiofrequency electromagnetic waves from electronic devices such as mobile phones.

The limit is two watts per kilogram when a handset is held next to the ear or torso and four watts per kilogram when held or kept in a pocket.

Agence Nationale des Frequences (ANFR), the French watchdog that governs radio frequencies, said the Sar for Apple's iPhone 12 when carried was 5.74 watts per kilogram.

'Concerning phones already sold, Apple must in the briefest of delays take corrective measures to bring the affected phones into compliance,' the ANFR said in a statement on its website. 'Otherwise, Apple will have to recall them.'

However, Apple's website states that the iPhone 12 has a Sar of 0.98 watts per kilogram when held next to the ear and 0.99 watts per kilogram when carried or kept in a pocket - far below what the French claim.

Researchers have conducted a vast number of studies over the last two decades to assess the health risks of mobile phones.

If France's investigation proves true, it would place the iPhone well above the highest-known emitters like the Motorola Edge and ZTE Axon 11 5G. A 2022 chart of cell phone radiation exposure rates from Germany's Federal Office for Radiation

According to the World Health Organization, no adverse health effects have been established as being caused by their use.

READ MORE: Phones that emit the most - and least - radiation (bad news if you're an Android user) Some phones, it turns out, emit more radiation than others. But what exactly are we measuring with the specific absorption rate? Advertisement

Mathieu Michel, Belgium's state secretary for digitalization, said in a statement emailed to Reuters: 'It is my duty to make sure all citizens ... are safe.

'I have rapidly reached out to the IBPT-BIPT (regulator) to ask for an analysis about the potential danger of the product.'

Apple released its iPhone 15 lineup Tuesday and has yet to share radiofrequency energy for the models, but previous models do not exceed 0.99, according to the tech giant's website.

Germany's Federal Office for Radiation released data on the top emitting smartphones as of 2022.

SAR, calculated in watts per kilogram of body weight, quantifies how much energy is absorbed per unit mass by the human body when exposed to a radio frequency.

The legal limit in the US is 1.6 watts per kilogram.

These five models emit some of the most substantial radiation on the market: Motorola Edge ( 1.79 w/kg), OnePlus 6T (1.55 w/kg); Sony Xperia XA2 Plus (1.41 w/kg), Google Pixel 3 XL (1.39 w/kg), and the Google Pixel 4a (1.37 w/kg) in a tie with the Oppo Reno5 5G (1.37 w/kg).

Not far behind were the Google Pixel 3 (1.33 w/kg), Huawei's P Smart (1.27 w/kg) and the OnePlus 9 (1.26 w/kg).

The Samsung Galaxy Note10+ 5G (0.19 w/kg), Samsung's Galaxy Note10 (0.21 w/kg), the Samsung Galaxy A80 (0.22 w/kg), LG G7 ThinQ (0.24 w/kg) and the Motorola Razr 5G (0.27 w/kg) are the least emitters.
Artificial intelligence outperforms humans in strategy games, website design and data processing, but now the tech can add creative thinking to the list.

AI chatbots surpassed humans when asked to devise alternative uses for everyday objects.

Researchers said the AI used a skill known as divergent thinking, a thought process or method used to generate creative ideas by exploring many possible solutions.

The study by the University of Stavanger in Norway involved 256 human volunteers and three AI chatbots  ChatGPT3, ChatGPT4, and Copy.Ai - that were asked to provide multiple uses for a rope, box, pencil and candle.

When assessed with a type of divergent thinking exercise known as alternate uses tasks, which asks a person to think of as many uses as possible for a simple object, chatbots, on average, performed better than humans.

However, the researchers also found that the best human ideas matched or exceeded AI's.

A new study found that AI chatbots surpassed humans when asked to devise alternative uses for everyday objects using a skill known as divergent thinking

Simone Grassini, author of the study from the University of Stavanger in Norway, told the PA news agency: 'Indeed, this is a remarkable type of ability that AI chatbots display.

'The findings show that AI is better than most humans in creative thinking.

'But we should also remember that we used the divergent thinking task to measure creative thinking, that is, measuring a particular type of creative thinking and not creativity in general.

'Our results show that, at least for now, the best humans still outperform the AI.'

READ MORE: This is what ChatGPT thinks of residents in all 50 US states  prepare to be offended ChatGPT has been accused of being woke and shying away from offensive feedback  but not when it comes to negative stereotypes about Americans. Advertisement

Each chatbot was tested 11 times with four object prompts in different sessions, while human subjects had 1,024 observations in a single trial.

Human participants were asked to focus on quality over quantity regarding answers.

'For the next task, you'll be asked to come up with original and creative uses for an object,' read the instructions given to subjects.

'The goal is to come up with creative ideas, which are ideas that strike people as clever, unusual, interesting, uncommon, humorous, innovative, or different.

'Your ideas don't have to be practical or realistic; they can be silly or strange, even so long as they are creative uses rather than ordinary uses.

'You may type in as many ideas as you can, but creative quality is more important than quantity. It's better to have a few really good ideas than a lot of uncreative ones. You have 30 seconds to respond to each object'.

The instructions for AI were identical to those given for humans, but two exceptions had to be made.

'First, piloting with the chatbots suggested that if ChatGPT3 were given no explicit restriction to the number of ideas, it always generated 10 ideas, while ChatGPT4 generated between 7 and 8 ideas; Copy.Ai generated a more variable number of ideas,' reads the study published in Nature.

'To restrict the number of ideas so that they would correspond to those given by humans, we first examined the distribution of the number of human ideas.'

The team said that, on average, chatbot-generated responses scored significantly higher than the human responses for semantic distance and creativity.

The best human response outperformed each chatbot's best answer in seven out of eight scoring categories  however, responses from people had a higher proportion of poor-quality ideas, the researchers added.

'Playing around with ChatGPT, I noticed that some of the answers given by the chatbot displayed a good level of creativity,' Grassini said.

'I knew that the chatbot would have performed well, but I think it performed even better than what I expected.'

The researchers said that while their work highlights the potential of AI as a tool to enhance creativity, it also underscores the unique and complex nature of human creativity that may be difficult to replicate or surpass with AI technology fully.

Prof Grassini said: 'It is still to be established whether these capabilities of AI will translate directly on AI systems, replacing human jobs that require creative thinking.

'I prefer to think that AI will be helping humans to improve their capacity.'
A pig kidney transplanted into a brain-dead man continued to function for two months, marking the longest time a non-human organ has survived in a human.

The procedure, conducted on July 14, implanted the kidney in 58-year-old Maurice 'Mo' Miller, whose body was donated by his family after he was declared dead by neurologic criteria and maintained with a beating heart on ventilator support.

The experiment concluded Wednesday when doctors removed the genetically modified organ, and Miller's sister said her final goodbyes.

'I'm so proud of you,' Mary Miller-Duffy said in a tearful farewell at her brother's bedside.

Surgeons at NYU Langone Health, who performed the experiment, determined no differences in how the pig kidney reacted to human hormones, excreted antibiotics or experienced medicine-related side effects.

It is the latest in a string of developments renewing hope for animal-to-human transplants, or xenotransplantation, after decades of failure as people's immune systems attacked the foreign tissue.

A previous attempt saw the organ only last for 72 hours before it was rejected.

The experiment was carried out on 58-year-old Maurice 'Mo' Miller, whose body was donated by his family after he was declared dead by neurologic criteria and maintained with a beating heart on ventilator support

The pig kidney underwent a single-gene modification - a sugar molecule on the surface of pig cells that can trigger the human immune system to attack pig organs

Dr Jeffrey Stern, involved with the research, said: 'It looks beautiful, it's exactly the way normal kidneys look.'

The statements were made after removing the kidney for a closer examination.

Dr. Robert Montgomery, the transplant surgeon who led the experiment, told The Associated Press: 'It's a combination of excitement and relief.

'Two months is a lot to have a pig kidney in this good a condition. That gives you a lot of confidence' for the next attempts.'

Montgomery, himself a heart transplant recipient, sees animal-to-human transplants as crucial to ease the nations organ shortage.

More than 100,000 people are on the national waiting list, most of whom need a kidney, and thousands will die waiting.

Montgomery has performed transplant surgeries thousands of times - but always on humans with human organs.

'Somewhere in the back of your mind is the enormity of what you're doing ... recognizing that this could have a huge impact on the future of transplantation,' Montgomery said.

Surgeons removed the pig kidney (pictured) on Wednesday, finding that it was still in great condition

The next steps: Researchers took about 180 tissue samples- from every major organ, lymph nodes, and digestive tract - to scour any hints of problems due to the xenotransplant.

Experiments in the deceased cannot predict that the organs will work the same in the living, cautioned Karen Maschke, a research scholar at the Hastings Center helping develop ethics and policy recommendations for xenotransplant clinical trials.

The mission began in the early morning of July 14 when Drs Adam Griesemer and Jeffrey Stern flew hundreds of miles to a facility where Virginia-based Revivicor houses genetically modified pigs to retrieve kidneys lacking a gene that would trigger immediate destruction by the human immune system.

Then, the team raced to New York just as Montgomery removed Miller's kidneys.

One of the animal's organs was used in the experiment, and the other was stored away for comparison when the investigation comes to a close next month.

Toby Coates, Professor of Medicine at the University of Adelaide and not involved in the experiment, said: 'This case represents one of the first functional kidney transplants from a pig into a human, and shows proof of principle that organs from a genetically modified animal can replace human kidney function for one week without rejection and using conventional kidney transplant drug therapy.

'I'm so proud of you,' Mary Miller-Duffy (right) said in a tearful farewell at her brother's bedside.

Pictured is Miller as a child with his sister Mary

'The key advance here is the genetic removal of four pig genes that have previously proven a barrier to successful cross-species transplantation, and insertion of six human genes that prevent coagulation and 'humanize' the pig kidney to look more human-like (the 10 genes modified pig donor). '

In 2022, about 26,000 people received a kidney transplant. Meanwhile, nearly 808,000 people in the U.S. have end-stage renal disease.

These statics likely helped convince Miller's family to donate his body, as they were initially reluctant.

'I struggled with it,' his sister, Mary Miller-Duffy, told the AP. But he liked helping others and 'I think this is what my brother would want. So I offered my brother to them.'

'He's going to be in the medical books, and he will live on forever,' she added.
Elon Musk, currently ranked the richest person on Earth with an estimated net worth of $226 billion, returned his focus from the risks of artificial intelligence to another new feature on his social media site X (formerly known as Twitter).

Musk announced that users will now be able to keep the record of the posts they have liked private, with a simple flip of the new 'Hide Likes tab' toggle.

'You can now hide your likes,' Musk posted to X, 'but I recommend keeping them open and just using bookmarks for interesting posts.'

Musk introduced the 'bookmarks' feature, which he considers a 'de facto silent like,' after teasing the option months in advance of his purchase of Twitter last year.

Billionaire tech mogul Elon Musk announced that users will now be able to keep the record of the posts that they have 'liked' private, with a simple flip of the new 'Hide Likes tab' toggle

From a complete overhaul of the verification system to the reinstatement of controversial accounts, Musk has made a number of questionable changes since he bought Twitter last year. In July, Musk made his biggest alteration yet, ditching the bird logo and rebranding the site X

Users responded to Musk's announcement with jokes about the risque content users might not want to be seen publicly approving of with their 'likes.' Above, users react to the new feature

From a complete overhaul of the verification system to the reinstatement of controversial accounts including Donald Trump and Andrew Tate, Musk has made a number of questionable changes since he bought out Twitter last year.

This July, Musk made arguably his biggest alteration yet, ditching the bird logo and rebranding Twitter to X.

The move was part of Musk's wider effort to fold the site into his long-term ambitions for an 'everything app' to rival China's WeChat, which mixes social media functionality with financial services, ecommerce and more.

Users responded to Musk's 'hide likes' announcement today largely with jokes about the risque content that users might not want to be seen publicly approving of.

'Big day for the freaks & cheats on here,' said one user, whose handle is @Alexeii__.

'If you gotta hide your likes,' said another, who goes by @simp4azh on the platform, 'ima just assume you're a weirdo.'
Jialing Cai takes the top spot for an underwater shot taken in the aftermath of a nearby volcanic eruption

Advertisement

There's incredible beauty to be found in the depths of the Earth's oceans, seas and lakes, as these magnificent pictures reveal.

They've been honoured at the Ocean Photographer of the Year 2023 awards, an annual contest that has a mission to 'shine a light on the beauty of the ocean and the threats it faces'.

Thousands of drone and underwater images were entered, with a heartwarming picture of fish taking refuge under a turtle and a striking shot of a pair of playful humpback whales among those that caught the judges' attention.

Taking the title of Ocean Photographer of the Year 2023 is marine biologist and amateur photographer Jialing Cai with her picture of a paper nautilus - a species of the octopus family - off the coast of the Philippines. The shot, which is described as 'stunning' by the awards' organisers, was taken in the aftermath of a volcanic eruption.

Want to see them all up close? All of this years imagery will be showcased at a five-month exhibition at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney, Australia, that opens to the public on November 17.

Or simply scroll down to see 10 astonishing photographs that wowed the judges, including Cai's winning shot...

Commended in the 'Adventure' category, this stunning picture shows a free-diver gazing up at the intricate ice patterns below the surface of a frozen lake in Canada

This heartbreaking picture was taken by Sirachai Arunrugstichai in Thailand. It shows a giant manta ray entangled in ghost nets (abandoned fishing nets) - leading to large wounds - off the coast of Thailand. The ray repeatedly approached divers and allowed them to remove some of the nets. The picture is one of a series that takes the top prize in the 'Portfolio' category

In this jarring shot, fishermen carry a dead tiger shark to a notorious shark market in Lombok, Indonesia. Taken by Rike Brandt, it is highly commended in the 'Conservation Impact' category

Jarvis Smallman earns the title of Young Ocean Photographer of the Year 2023 with this moody shot, showing a bodyboarder paddling out to sea in Western Australia. Smallman notes how big storm clouds blocked the sun when he took the image, creating an 'electric blue colour effect on the wave'

LEFT: Photographer Merche Llobera, whose portfolio of work is the winner of the Female Fifty Fathoms category, snared this fantastic photograph of a sea lion and a striped marlin moving in on a bait ball off the coast of Mexico. RIGHT: This captivating shot from Merche Llobera's winning portfolio shows playful humpback whales swimming in the waters of the Turks and Caicos Islands

This striking photograph from Merche Llobera's winning portfolio shows fish taking refuge under a turtle in Costa Rican waters

This devastating shot shows an injured whale swimming towards the ocean's surface off the coast of Mexico. Its flukes (part of its tail) have been severely damaged from repeated entanglement. It was captured by Alvaro Lopez, who takes third place in the overall Ocean Photographer of the Year 2023 awards

Andrei Savin wins the silver medal in the awards with this mesmerising photograph of a crab sitting in the centre of a sea anemone as it sways in the ocean current off the coast of the Philippines
PrettyLittleThing is set to unveil a brand new documentary chronicling its epic collaboration with Naomi Campbell - in which she revealed her aim for the line.

The model, 53, surprised fans earlier this year by revealing she'd joined forces with the online fashion retailer to create her Designed by Naomi Campbell collection, which she revealed she is determined to be for good - not throwaway fast fashion.

And in a new two-part film, fans will be given an insight behind the landmark collaboration with the supermodel, with fashion lovers getting an 'unfiltered glimpse into the creativity and prowess' behind the partnership.

Going live on September 13 at 7pm on PrettyLittleThing's YouTube channel, the 'visual journey' will feature behind-the-scenes footage and exclusive interviews, allowing fans to see the process behind the collection - from conception to catwalk.

In a new trailer, exclusively seen by MailOnline, Naomi could be seen donning a number of fashionable looks as she lets the camera behind-the-scenes and gives a look at the creative process into her collection.

Coming soon: PrettyLittleThing is set to unveil a brand new documentary chronicling its epic collaboration with Naomi Campbell

Glimpse: In a new two-part film, fans will be given an insight behind the landmark collaboration with the supermodel, with fashion lovers getting an 'unfiltered glimpse into the creativity and prowess' behind the partnership

The stunner speaks to designers about several pieces in the fashion range, hailing a black blazer dress a 'classic', while noting a racy crystal dress needed to be 'longer'.

The clip also sees Naomi examining mood boards, attending fittings and declaring which looks work and don't work as she put in the graft ahead of a photoshoot and of course her NYFW week show which debuted the 90-piece collection.

She was also heard sharing her passion for the clothes, remarking that she wanted people to buy the piece and keep them.

While another woman adds: 'We're six weeks away from our photoshoot, I'm so excited for everyone to see this collection!'

PrettyLittleThing declare that the documentary will be sure to 'resonate with fashion enthusiasts globally' as it narrates the 'the inner workings' of the trailblazing 'fashion synergy'.

Last week, a star-studded guest list including Emily Ratajowski, Tommy Dorfman, Lori Harvey and Molly-Mae Hague descended upon Ciprianis in New York to take in the unveiling of Naomi's fashion range.

The runway sensation herself wowed as she strutted down the catwalk in a vert racy see-through jewelled dress as she debuted a range of stylish pieces she designed with the fashion retailer in its biggest partnership yet.

The maxi-style piece hugged her fit, 5ft10in frame and had a sheer, black base under the accoutrements.

Collab: The model, 53, surprised fans earlier this year by revealing she'd joined forces with the online fashion retailer to create her Designed by Naomi Campbell collection

Exciting: Going live on Wednesday 13 September at 7pm on PrettyLittleThing's YouTube channel , the 'visual journey' will feature behind-the-scenes footage and special exclusive interviews

Backstage: In a new trailer, exclusively seen by MailOnline, Naomi could be seen donning a number of fashionable looks as she lets the camera behind-the-scenes and gives a look at the creative process into her collection

Work: The clip also sees Naomi examining mood boards, attending fittings and declaring which looks work and don't work as she put in the graft ahead of a photoshoot and of course her NYFW week show

Busy: The stunner speaks to designers about several pieces in the fashion range, hailing a black blazer dress a 'classic', while noting a racy crystal dress needed to be 'longer'

The collection, complete with tailored blazer suits, sparkling gold and silver dresses, and statement coats, including a standout leather trench worn by guest Julia Fox, could have easily been mistaken for 'high end' fashion pieces.

Paying close attention to inclusivity, the lineup of jaw-dropping models featured women of different shapes and sizes and ethnicities.

Naomi's collaboration with the brand comes after years of friendship with former CEO Umar Kamani, 35, who stepped down from the helm in April but has still been heavily involved in the project.

It comes after Naomi hit back at critics of her collaboration with online brand PrettyLittleThing, insisting 'fashion shouldn't discriminate.'

As she unveiled her new 90-piece collection, in New York on Tuesday where she took to the catwalk wearing a see-through silver dress priced at 85, the supermodel vowed to ignore the snobbery towards 'fast fashion', insisting outside influences have never impacted her decisions as she says she will spearhead positive change in the industry.

In an exclusive interview with MailOnline Naomi, who has worked with prestigious fashion houses such as Prada, Burberry and Yves Saint Laurent, revealed a major factor behind the surprise deal with PLT and the fashion firm's owner Umar Kamani was her desire to design her own clothes, claiming fashion brands don't usually give models the opportunity, favouring celebrity names instead.

Fashionista: PrettyLittleThing declare that the documentary will be sure to 'resonate with fashion enthusiasts globally' as it narrates the 'the inner workings' of the trailblazing 'fashion synergy' (pictured with Umar Kamani)

Almost time: She was also heard sharing her passion for the clothes, remarking that she wanted people to buy the piece and keep them

When her collaboration, which is priced between 10 to 150 and comes in sizes 4-30, was announced in July she was hit with a negative reaction from critics who claimed she was putting her reputation on the line by fronting a campaign for the brand which often emulates designer looks at a cheaper cost.

Naomi said: 'I feel this collection was fun, chic, sexy, vibrant, inclusive, and fashion should not discriminate... who's to say that PrettyLittleThing are not going to continue working with young creatives and leading and changing into sustainability, who knows. New beginnings.'

The mother-of-two says working with PrettyLittleThing has been an empowering experience following decades of wearing the designs of other fashion houses as she becomes the changing face of a new era.

She added: 'I have worked for years for everybody else. It's nice to do something for me.

'Whenever they think of working with someone, they never come to the actual models, they usually go to the celebrities.

Attendance: Last week, a star-studded guest list including Emily Ratajowski, Tommy Dorfman, Lori Harvey, Julia Fox and Molly-Mae Hague descended upon Ciprianis in New York to take in the unveiling of Naomi's fashion range

Wow: The runway sensation herself wowed as she strutted down the catwalk in a vert racy see-through jewelled dress as she debuted a range of stylish pieces

Flawless: The maxi-style 85 piece hugged her fit, 5ft10in frame and had a sheer, black base under the accoutrements

Having her say: It comes after Naomi hit back at critics of her collaboration with online brand PrettyLittleThing, insisting 'fashion shouldn't discriminate'

'There are a few other models that have done fast fashion, and they were totally praised and adored and are loved.

'I don't think about other people when I say yes to something. If I understand it and I see what it can be then that's how I commit to the things I do.'

Asked if she thinks there could be a second collection, she quipped: 'I am going wherever Umar goes now...

'But I'm always nervous when I do anything publicly... I am satisfied but now let's see how the sales go. From A-Z... I care.'
He was 'psychologically damaged' after living with barbaric rapists and killers

The host of gritty Netflix series Inside the World's Toughest Prisons has admitted that he suffered 'psychological damage' after being locked up with 'barbaric' rapists and killers - including one man who murdered his own son for stealing a watermelon.

Journalist Raphael Rowe, 55, confessed that he struggled to cope during a seven-day stint behind bars in the Solomon Islands for the new series, which launches on the streaming site on Friday, and also sees him serving a week in prisons in the Czech Republic, Finland, and Bali.

In an interview with DailyMail.com, Rowe opened up about the most 'challenging moments' he experienced both on and off screen, while discussing the 'inhumane' crimes some inmates had committed.

In the Solomon Islands, which has some of the highest rates of violence against women in the world, Rowe was incarcerated at Rove Central Correctional Centre with Mostyn, a man who murdered his 10-year-old son by whipping him with a stick while trying to discipline him for stealing a watermelon from their neighbor. He has served 14 years in jail so far.

Raphael Rowe returns to jail for the seventh season of Inside The World's Toughest Prisons

The journalist was locked up in the Solomon Islands with killer Mostyn, who murdered his 10-year-old son

Rowe served time at Rove Central Correctional Centre alongside rapists and killers

He told DailyMail.com that the 'dingy' and 'disgusting' environment impacted his mental health

Speaking exclusively to DailyMail.com, ahead of the show's return, Rowe said: 'It was infested, it was horrible. The nature of the offenses that most of the men were in for were horrible to hear.

'There were lots of challenging moments off camera and some on camera where I was hearing crimes that were so barbaric and inhumane that I couldn't believe what I was hearing, you know, the man killed his 10-year-old son over a watermelon.

'There were other guys who committed acts of rape on children that they believed was justified, and I heard some barbaric stuff.

'And then I've got to remind myself, that their culture, their way of living in the environment that they come from, it's very different from the world that we come from.'

In the documentary, Mostyn says his violent murder was 'hard to describe' but that he does feel regret for his actions.

Reflecting on their conversation, Rowe remarks: 'Mostyn does seem to have changed profoundly, and it does look like it is his faith, not any prison rehabilitation program, that has helped him get here.'

Mostyn, who killed his child for stealing a watermelon, has 'changed profoundly' through faith inside the jail

Rowe was placed behind bars with violent sex offenders, which included his cell mate (l)

Rowe explained his difficulty in trying to find a level of understanding between himself and the prisoners in order to be able to shoot the documentary.

'I felt psychologically threatened and damaged by what I was hearing and witnessing and, and the experience of the dark, dingy, disgusting environment,' he said.

'When I interviewed one man in the Solomon Islands, and he was describing to me the nature of his offenses  and this is not a man with any mental health issues as far as I was concerned - I challenged him in a way that I haven't chatted to a prisoner in a very long time because I found his crimes so abhorrent and disgusting.'

Once released from jail, Rowe, who was falsely imprisoned for 12 years for a murder he did not commit, likes to have a shower to cleanse him of the horrors of being inside.

'It's a very simple mechanism for me where, when I have a shower, the drops of water that wash my body, wash away the stories of thoughts, the feelings, the smell of everything,' he said.

The presenter described the jail - with the toilet pictured - as 'infested' and 'horrible'

Rowe struggled to come to terms with some of the prisoners' 'abhorrent' crimes

He added that the documentary was traumatizing to shoot - but is keen to return for more series in the future

'So I kind of psychologically tell myself that the water hitting my body is now washing away the story from that guy or the rat that I saw running here, or whatever it is.'

Although filming Inside World's Toughest Prisons does take a mental toll, Rowe is passionate about returning for an eighth and ninth season.

'I think I will continue to do it for as long as we can, so long as we can reflect these prisons in an authentic way.

'There are prisons all over the world, so there's plenty of choice. So it's really down to Netflix. Does Netflix want me to do a season eight and a nine? I know the audience does, there's no question.

'I'll continue doing it I think for sure for sure. And if not for Netflix, then someone else.'

Raphael Rowe presents Netflix's Inside The World's Toughest Prisons. Season seven is available on September 15
Estranged husband Kevin Costner's attorney Laura Wasser hit back at the request  describing the fees as 'inflated' and 'outrageous'

The 49-year-old is demanding' a whopping award of $885,000 ($575,000 in attorney's fees and $280,000 in expert costs) to prepare for trial

Kevin Costner's estranged wife Christine Baumgartner has already received more than $400,000 to pay the costs of her legal battle with the actor, DailyMail.com can reveal.

The mom-of-three is currently locked in a court fight with her ex over a fresh award of $855,000 to cover fees for the former couple's upcoming trial over whether the prenuptial agreement they signed 18 years ago can still be enforced.

Baumgartner, 49, has asked for $575,000 to pay her lawyers John Rydell and Susan Wiesner and another $280,000 for her forensic accountant Jill Bombino  which would take the combined total to an eye-watering total of $1.26million.

But documents obtained by DailyMail.com reveal Baumgartner has so far already received $405,000 in legal, attorney, and 'forensic accounting fees'  disbursed in July this year.

In an excoriating legal filing lodged in court in Santa Barbara, California, on Tuesday, Costner's attorney Laura Wasser hit back at the 'whopping' request  describing the fees as 'inflated' and saying that it would be 'unconscionable' for the Yellowstone star to be made to pay.

'Disso queen' Wasser also accused Baumgartner of being 'unreasonable' and said her constant legal maneuvers  the majority of which have failed  have inflated costs for both parties.

Court filings obtained by DailyMail.com reveal Christine Baumgartner  pictured last month  has so far already received $405,000 in legal, attorney, and 'forensic accounting fees'

Estranged husband Kevin Costner's attorney Laura Wasser  seen arriving at court with the actor earlier this month  hit back at the request  describing the fees as 'inflated' and 'outrageous'

Baumgartner, 49, is hoping to void the spousal support section of their prenuptial agreement at trial in November so she can be awarded alimony

'After receiving $405,000 in fees, including an award of $300,000 in legal fees ($200,000 in attorney's fees and $100,000 in forensic accounting fees) on July 12 and removing $105,000 for fees from Kevin's accounts, Christine is back requesting another fee award,' Wasser writes in the filing.

'This time, she requests a whopping award of $885,000 ($575,000 in attorney's fees and $280,000 in expert costs) just to prepare for the November/December bifurcated trial on one issue -- whether the spousal support waiver in the parties' Premarital Agreement ('PMA') is unconscionable as of today.

'When the numbers are so large, it is easy to lose perspective of the actual value of these numbers.'

The new spat comes less than two weeks after a two-day evidentiary hearing over child support ended with Baumgartner having her payments slashed from $129,000-per-month to $63,000.

She had been requesting payments of $161,000-a-month and, according to the new filing, turned down an offer made by Costner on June 30 of $75,000-a-month because of her desire for a much larger payout.

Baumgartner's fee request is to pay for the costs of a hearing over the couple's premarital agreement which begins on November 27 and is scheduled to last for six days.

The 49-year-old wants to overturn her prenuptial agreement so she can receive alimony  at present, she is entitled to a lump sum of $1.5million and a year's worth of mortgage payments on a new home worth up to $1million.

According to Wasser, estimates from Rydell, Wiesner and Bombino for the cost of trial prep is 'inflated' and repeats work already done for the child support hearing.

Wasser's numbers, included in the filing, state that Baumgartner will be paying her attorneys at the sky-high rate of $800-an-hour.

She added: 'Although Kevin is the wealthier party with higher cash flow than Christine, Christine is quite capable of contributing towards her own attorneys' fees.

'Further, Kevin's wealth and cash flow does not provide Christine and her attorneys carte blanche to take unreasonable positions, fail to make any real effort to resolve disputed issues and thereafter litigate those unreasonable positions.'

She also accused Baumgartner of failing to make a 'meaningful effort' to resolve disputes before engaging in 'forced litigation'.

In an excoriating legal filing lodged in court in Santa Barbara, California , on Tuesday, Costner's attorney Laura Wasser hit back at the 'whopping' request

Wasser also bristled at Baumgartner accusing her ex of using 'highly litigious tactics'  noting that the pair had been due to take part in a settlement conference, only for the glamorous blonde to insist on an evidentiary hearing that took place before the scheduled meeting.

She fumed: 'Christine fails to inform the court that her settlement position through the months of June, July and August was so unrealistic and frankly outrageous, Kevin had no hope she would be more settlement oriented at the VSC [voluntary settlement conference].'

Last week, Baumgartner found herself on the hook for a payment of $14,000 after Judge Thomas Anderle decided to sanction her for failing to give proper answers to questions from Costner's legal team.

The setback came shortly after Judge Anderle halved Baumgartner's monthly child support payments  a decision she later described as a 'joke' according to a pal.

The friend told DailyMail.com: 'Christine is shocked. She said even Kevin looked shocked. Everyone looked shocked.

'To say Christine is disappointed is an understatement. She described the ruling is a complete joke.'

Speaking to DailyMail.com, Brett Ward, a partner at New York legal firm Blank Rome and an expert in family law, said a party requesting fees isn't unusual, although the potential size of the award is.

He also said judges tend to take a dim view of what they see as excessive requests and generally want to prevent drawn out cases like the Costner divorce is becoming.

He said: 'There is certainly a legal basis for [Baumgartner's] request. However, a judge will examine the reasonableness of the fees requested.

'Judges generally do not want to encourage additional litigation by providing one side with a war chest of future legal fees.

The mom-of-three had been enjoying a temporary monthly payment of $129,000 and had wanted it bumped to $161,000

DailyMail.com previously revealed that Baumgartner, 49, moved into the luxury four-bedroom home on Friday  after a judge in Santa Barbara, California, slashed her child support payments

In July Baumgartner was court-ordered to vacate the former couple's $145million lavish California mansion

'Courts generally balance the less wealthy party's right to carry on the litigation in a fair manner against the concern that a party with a significant fee award will take that money and use it to make every possible argument available, no matter the merit or lack thereof for each claim.'

Ward said the enormous legal bills the pair are racking up are unusual in family court but added that much of the money can be explained by the value of the assets being wrangled over and expects the eventual tab to be much higher.

He said: 'At this pace, and without a settlement in the near future, I would not be surprised if the combined legal fees approach or exceed $5 million.'

Much of Baumgartner's testimony during the evidentiary hearing had hinged on her being able to provide a lavish lifestyle for her three children comparable to that they enjoy while with their father.

Despite renting a $40,000-a-month property in tony Montecito, Baumgartner said her new home is inadequate because sons Cayden, 16, and Hayes, 14, would have to share a bathroom while daughter Grace, 13, would need 'to share hers with the house'.

She also bemoaned the pool house guest accommodation  saying visitors would need to come into the main house to shower  and hit out at the lack of beach access to which her children are accustomed.

In his testimony, Costner said the property was comparable to his own luxury home in nearby Carpinteria and said it even has features he would like in his own house.

According to the mom-of-three's friend, her objections also include her being 'removed' from the community she had enjoyed while living with Costner.

Estranged wife Christine Baumgartner, who appeared via Zoom on Wednesday, was ordered to pay a $14,000 fine after she failed to explain on why her prenup should be voided

The friend added: 'Christine said they [Costner and his legal team] painted the picture of this shallow, greedy gold-digger and that if Kevin could get past his anger and revenge, he would see how this is hurting their kids.

'She said Kevin is ripping her apart from her community by making it impossible to live in the tight-knit neighborhood. 'Christine said this was never about beach views and Kevin knows this. He knows how much the community means to Christine, and that this is his way of punishing her.

'Christine said the fight is far from over.'

The court also heard details of the family's lavish spending  which totaled $240,000-a-month in 2022.

Expenses included $40,000 spent each month on flowers and gifts alone, although Costner's forensic accountant Tracy Katz pointed out the figure is for the entire family, including Baumgartner.

Katz said the 49-year-old was responsible for a host of big-ticket items, including $18,000-a-month on medical bills, $18,855 on clothing and $3,377 on beauty treatments.

On top of that, Baumgartner was responsible for the lion's share of the $8,886 in cash taken out at ATM machines according to Katz.
A new trailer for the upcoming movie Saw X lampoons a viral commercial Nicole Kidman did for AMC two years ago.

In the initial ad, released in September of 2021, Kidman talked up the fun of going to the movies as the industry sought to bounce back from the coronavirus pandemic closures.

The new ad for the horror film casts Billy the Puppet in the role Kidman had in the initial ad.

Billy the Puppet is seen making his way into a theater with his own twist on the reverent monologue Kidman delivered in the original ad.

'We come to this place for a reawakening,' Billy the Puppet said. 'We come to the theaters to scream, to beg, to play.'

The latest: A new trailer for the upcoming movie Saw X lampoons a viral commercial Nicole Kidman did for AMC two years ago

'That indescribable feeling we get when the lights flicker on and off, and your calls for mercy go unanswered, and you wake up chained in a dirty warehouse, somehow still breathing.'

Billy the Puppet is seen making his way around the theater on a tricycle as scary scenes from the horror anthology are seen playing on the screen.

'Somehow, self-amputation feels good in a place like this,' the ghoulish character said. He ended the clip in saying: 'Traps - they make movies better.'

Saw X, which is due in theaters September 29, is placed in the franchise timeline between the first and second film, and set in Mexico.

Kidman starred in the movie theater chain's $25+ million multi-media campaign, which included 'national television advertising across the United States.'

According to an AMC press release at the time, the campaign was the 'first national advertising program by a major theatrical exhibitor in the history of cinema.'

Most of AMC's $25+ million in funding on the ad was 'spent on network television advertising,' which was 'used in nine countries in Europe by AMCs Odeon Cinema Group.'

Aiming to highlight the 'emotion and experience' of viewing films on the big screen, the theatre chain crafted multiple cinematic commercials, ranging from 60-seconds, 30-seconds and 15-seconds.

Familiar face: The new ad for the horror film casts Billy the Puppet in the role Kidman had

Mimic: Billy the Puppet is seen making his way into a theater with his own twist on the reverent monologue Kidman delivered in the original ad

Riding: Billy the Puppet is seen making his way around the theater on a tricycle

Details: Scary scenes from the horror anthology are seen playing on the screen in the new ad

Reflection: Billy the Puppet is seated looking at the screen, taking on Kidman's role

Details: The spoofed ad features Billy the Puppet by himself in a movie house

Coming soon: Saw X is due in theaters September 29, in the middle of cinema's horror season

They were directed by Academy Award nominee Jeff Cronenweth, known for his directorial work in 2011's The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and his brother Tim Cronenweth.

The commercials were thoughtfully written by Captain Phillips screenwriter Billy Ray, who famously earned an Oscar nod for the 2013 biographical thriller.

'We come to this place for magic,' narrates Kidman in a 60-second commercial spot.

She can be seen trekking through the rain towards an illuminated AMC theater.

Kidman goes on to say that people often 'come to AMC theaters to laugh, to cry, to care' by means of their favorite films.

The Moulin Rouge actress, rocking a fitted pinstripe suit, strolls into one of AMC's many theaters and, after walking slowly up a slew of dimly lit steps, finds a seat dead center.

'Because we need that. That feeling we get when the lights begin to dim and we go somewhere we've never been before. Not just entertained, but somehow reborn,' she continues via narration while various films appear on the big screen before her, including Wonder Woman and Creed.

'Dazzling images on a huge silver screen. Sound that I can feel. Somehow heartbreak feels good in a place like this.

Dramatics: 'We come to this place for magic,' narrates Kidman in a 60-second commercial spot that premiered Wednesday. She can be seen trekking through the rain towards an AMC theater

Happy place: Kidman goes on to say that people 'come to AMC theaters to laugh, to cry, to care' by means of their favorite films

Right at home: The Moulin Rouge actress, rocking a fitted pinstripe suit, enters into one of AMC's many theaters and, after walking slowly up dimly lit steps, finds a seat dead center

Funding: Most of AMC's $25+ million in funding 'will be spent on network television advertising' and will be 'used in nine countries in Europe by AMCs Odeon Cinema Group'

'Our heroes feel like the best part of us. And stories feel perfect and powerful. Because here... they are,' the star dramatically concludes.

Each commercial spot, in a clear attempt to combat the rise of home-theatrical releases, stresses that AMC theaters 'make movies better.'

In a statement to THR at the time, AMC Theatres CEO Adam Aron said he believed it was 'high time for an industry leader like AMC to go on television to remind todays audiences of the magic that can only be found in a movie theatre.'
He's as well known for his rugged good looks as his acting ability.

And Simon Baker looked every inch the heartthrob on Tuesday when he attended the North American premiere of his new movie Limbo at the Toronto International Film Festival.

The Launceston native, 54, rocked a smart casual look in a stylish blue button up dress shirt which he paired with tan pants and matching shoes.

Simon completed his look with prescription glasses and looked to be in good spirits as he rocked his best angles at the Scotiabank Theatre in Toronto, Canada.

His light-coloured hair was freshly styled and he sported a rugged five o'clock shadow.

Simon Baker (pictured) looked every inch the heartthrob on Tuesday when he attended the North American premiere of his new movie Limbo at the Toronto International Film Festival

The Launceston native, 54, rocked a smart casual look in a stylish blue button up dress shirt which he paired with tan pants and matching shoes

He was joined at the event by Limbo's director Ivan Sen and producer Rachel Higgins and was all smiles as he posed for snaps alongside them.

The actor has long been known for his luscious long blonde wavy locks, but has cut his famous hair for his new role.

The movie follows Simon's character Travis, as he arrives in a small Australian outback city to research a twenty-year-old murder.

He was joined at the event by Limbo's director Ivan Sen and producer Rachel Higgins and was all smiles as he posed for snaps alongside them

Travis meets and forms bonds with those impacted by the homicide and unravels the challenging truths surrounding injustice and loss.

According to The Guardian, the film has 'the grit of crime, but a heartbeat of compassion'.

The film also stars Mystery Road actor Rob Collins and Rabbit Proof Fence's Natasha Wanganeen.

Simon completed his look with prescription glasses and looked to be in good spirits as he rocked his best angles at the Scotiabank Theatre in Toronto, Canada

Director Ivan discussed the film's meanings and thought provoking conversations at the Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin.

He explained during the panel that one of the themes is 'the unresolved issues facing indigenous Australians when it comes to being victims of crimes in Australia'.

It had its world premiere at the film festival on 23 February 2023.

His brunette hair was freshly styled and he sported a rugged five o'clock shadow
Looks like Alyson Hannigan can count on a vote from her former How I Met Your Mother co-star Cobie Smulders as she prepares to compete on Dancing With The Stars.

Cobie, 41, cheered her pal on after Hannigan, 49, revealed she would be competing on the upcoming season of the show on Instagram.

'So happy to announce Ill be on @dancingwiththestars this season! #DWTS,' Alyson posted.

'Yes,' Cobie commented, along with a flame, applause, and heart emoji.

The duo appear to have remained friends after starring together on the hit comedy series, which ended after nine seasons back in 2014.

Legendary! Looks like Alyson Hannigan can count on a vote from her former How I Met Your Mother co-star Cobie Smulders as she prepares to compete on Dancing With The Stars

Alyson also garnered support from pal Jason Biggs, who posted 'Let's goooooo.'

Even competitor Ariana Madix chimed in with an uplifting message: 'You are going to slay so hard!'

The post contained a snap of Alyson in her dancing gear, along with another of her with her professional dance partner Sasha Farber, 41.

The official cast for Dancing with the Stars 2023 was finally confirmed on Wednesday, with the likes of Jamie Lynn Spears and Kyle Richards' estranged husband Mauricio Umansky hitting the dance floor.

The full line-up for the 32nd season was announced on Good Morning America ahead of the grand return of the ABC competition series on September 26.

Dancing with the Stars hosts Alfonso Ribeiro, 51, and professional dancer Julianne Hough, 35, were on hand to unveil this year's cohort, alongside judge Bruno Tonioli, 57.

'We're going to have a lot of fun,' Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air alum Alfonso teased. 'This whole season is about letting all of these incredible celebrities shine and really just have their moment in the sun and just enjoy it.'

Alyson, who also starred in the American Pie franchise with Jason Biggs, revealed she kept her place on the line-up completely schtum .

Vote for Alyson! Hannigan can likely expect a vote from Smulders

Dance break! Alyson will be hitting the dance floor with professional dancer Sasha Farber, 41, this upcoming season

'I kept things under wraps very seriously': The actress, who also starred in the American Pie franchise with Jason Biggs, revealed she kept her place on the line-up completely schtum

'I kept things under wraps very seriously,' Alyson admitted. 'I didn't even tell one of my best friends.

'I just texted her last night saying, "watch GMA tomorrow".'

In 2003, Alyson married her Buffy the Vampire Slayer co-star Alexis Deniso, with the couple parents to daughters Satyana Marie and Keeva Jane.

Tyson Beckford, Adrian Peterson, Barry Williams, Charity Lawson, Harry Jowsey, Jason Mraz, Lele Pons, Matt Walsh, Mira Sorvino, and Xochitl Gomez were all also announced as contestants.
Kanye West wanted to remove the windows and electricity from his $57 million Malibu home in order to turn it into 'a bomb shelter from the 1910s' according to a new lawsuit.

The I Wonder rapper, 46, is being sued by the former manager of the remodel project, Tony Saxon, who claims he was fired after he 'expressed concerns about the extreme danger of such actions' as per TMZ.

According to Saxon's lawsuit, filed on Wednesday in Los Angeles County Superior Court, he was hired for the project in September 2021, and worked 16-hour days on the Tadao Ando-designed beach house.

Saxon claims he was sleeping on the floor of the home as he worked as 'project manager, caretaker and 24/7 security' for the property.

Saxon alleges that West only paid him for one week of work and ignored all his concerns, until finally he was fired in November 2021, after refusing to remove the home's windows and electricity.

Lawsuit: Kanye West wanted to remove the windows and electricity from his $57 million Malibu home in order to turn it into 'a bomb shelter' according to a new lawsuit; pictured in May with Bianca Censori

Extreme: The rapper, 46, is being sued by former manager of the remodel project, Tony Saxon, who claims he was fired after he 'expressed concerns about the extreme danger of such actions' as per TMZ; The windowless Malibu home seen on Wednesday

Kanye proposed moving large generators inside the house, but Saxon was worried about it being a fire hazard.

Saxon alleges that Kanye then threatened him and said he would be considered 'an enemy' if he did not fulfill Kanye's vision.

When Saxon continued to disagree, Kanye told him to 'get the hell out' according to the suit.

Saxon also claims the hip hop mogul told him, 'If you don't do what I say, you're not going to work for me, I'm not gonna be your friend anymore and you'll just see me on TV.'

After he told the father-of-four he doesn't watch TV, he was promptly fired on the spot.

In the lawsuit Saxon said the rapper's vision for the home was to make something like 'a bomb shelter from the 1910s', according to NBC News, and demolish the marble bathrooms, as well as remove the windows, plumbing and electricity.

He also reportedly wanted to replace the stairs with slides.

Saxon is now suing Kim Kardashian's ex husband for a number of labor code violations, more than $1 million in unpaid wages, and damages.

Interesting concept: West reportedly wanted to demolish the marble bathrooms, as well as remove the windows, plumbing and electricity. He also wanted to replace the stairs with slides

A place to hide: 'We were going to be gutting all of that out and sort of building him a Bat Cave,' Saxon explained, as per NBC News, adding the rapper wanted a place he could 'hide from the Clintons in and the Kardashians in'; The home seen with windows in 2021

Demanding job: Saxon claims he was sleeping on the floor of the home as he worked as 'project manager, caretaker and 24/7 security' for the property; Security guards pictured outside the home

'We were going to be gutting all of that out and sort of building him a Bat Cave,' Saxon explained, adding the rapper wanted a place he could 'hide from the Clintons in and the Kardashians in.'

While Saxon believed the home was more of an 'art project' he later came to realize Kanye actually wanted to live in it.

He said Kanye 'wanted no electricity. He only wanted plants. He only wanted candles. He only wanted battery lights. And he just wanted to have everything open and dark.'

The lawsuit was filed by West Coast Employment Lawyers, the same attorneys who sued the musician on behalf of former employees of Kanye's private Christian school, Donda Academy, over alleged health and safety violations.

In recent photos on the home, the massive floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the ocean have been removed, leaving that side open to all the elements.

The inside of the house appears to be crumbling and the metal railings are rusting after being exposed to the salt air, wind and water.

West purchased his 4,000 square foot oceanfront property in September 2021. It boasts giant windows overlooking the sea.

He enlisted in the help of famed Japanese architect Tadao Ando and brought in top contractors to oversee the extensive remodeling plans.

But by the next summer, renovations halted and the gutted, windowless mansion was left empty. Months later, Ye was dropped by multiple business partners and brands because of his anti-Semitic outbursts.

Legal woes: Saxon is now suing Kim Kardashian's ex husband for a number of labor code violations, unpaid wages, and damages; West seen in 2020

Trouble: The lawsuit was filed by the same attorneys who sued the rapper on behalf of former employees of his private Christian school, over alleged health and safety violations

Ye's Malibu neighbors told TMZ his mansion was 'left to rot' and that they had not seen 'seen anyone around for many months.'

Ye had previously been seen at the property checking out the progress last summer, but his empire has since imploded in dramatic fashion after he launched into several anti-Semitic rants, which led to the loss of about $1.6 billion of his net worth and his fall off Forbes' billionaires list, as per CBS News.

Ye has several other properties around the country, including a sprawling ranch in Calabasas, Los Angeles, which he bought for an estimated $3 million in 2019.

He also owns another sprawling Wyoming ranch, which he snapped up when he reportedly became 'obsessed' with the Midwest state several years ago.
Erinn Westbrook revealed that she had become a mother by sharing a post on her Instagram account on Wednesday.

The 35-year-old performer shared a duo of photos showing her baby son, Teddy, playing with her husband Andrew.

The actress, who is best known for her work in the fan-favorite program Riverdale, also wrote a short message in her post's caption that partially read: 'You are the light of our lives & we love you endlessly.'

Westbrook also revealed that her baby boy was born on August 23 in her message.

She added that there was 'no greater love' than the affection she felt for her son.

Surprise! Erinn Westbrook revealed that she had become a mother by sharing a post on her Instagram account on Wednesday

Several of the actress' friends and castmates expressed their excitement in the post's caption.

Madelaine Petsch affectionately wrote that Teddy was officially her 'new little bestie.'

Chris Gorham, who costarred with Westbrook in Insatiable, wrote that the child's arrival was particularly 'wonderful.'

The actress and her husband previously met at a class reunion for Harvard University, and they later held a wedding ceremony that took place in her home state of Missouri in 2019.

The performer's spouse has occasionally shown up in various images shared on her Instagram account.

Although Westbrook appeared to be embracing motherhood, she is also currently celebrating the end of Riverdale, in which she appeared as Tabitha Tate.

The program was centered on various characters from Archie Comics, who attempted to solve various mysteries in their hometown.

The show also starred performers such as KJ Apa, Cole Sprouse and Camila Mendes, among many others.

Baby love: The 35-year-old performer shared a duo of photos showing her baby son, Teddy, playing with her husband Andrew

Grateful: The actress, who is best known for her work in the fan-favorite program Riverdale , also wrote a short message in her post's caption that partially read 'You are the light of our lives & we love you endlessly'

End of an era: The actress shared a photo of herself in-character as Tate on her Instagram account this past June to celebrate the end of her time on Riverdale

Riverdale ran for a total of seven seasons, and its final episode aired on August 23.

The actress shared a photo of herself in-character as Tate on her Instagram account this past June to celebrate the end of her time on the program.

Westbrook penned a lengthy message in her post's caption to express her gratitude for the support of her fans over the years.

She added that she was particularly grateful to viewers for 'loving this show and for embracing & championing my girl, Tabitha Tate, from the moment she arrived.'
Rorie Buckey made a huge 'love' declaration on Wednesday during her hunt for Irwin Family approval points.

The 19-year-old, who struck up a whirlwind romance with Robert Irwin in November, revealed she doesn't just have heart eyes for the young celebrity conservationist.

Sharing a reel of happy snaps to Instagram which depicted her most recent adventures with Robert, 19, Rorie declared her 'love' for his sister Bindi.

The snaps included a sweet selfie of Robert and Rorie together, as well as a candid of him on his phone, before she showcased their latest fun activities together.

It seems the pair have been tapping into their artistic creativity as the lovebirds sat down with a delicious platter of food while they painted a mountain landscape.

Rorie Buckey, 19, made a huge 'love' declaration on Wednesday during her hunt for Irwin Family approval points. Pictured with Robert Irwin

Heading off for a stroll on the beach afterward, Rorie's comments beneath the happy reel became filled with Irwin love.

Bindi kicked things off with a sweet message which said: 'Love you both so much.'

Rorie promptly replied, 'Love you, Bindi,' alongside an emoji covered in hearts.

Rorie, who struck up a whirlwind romance with Robert Irwin in November, revealed she doesn't just have heart eyes for the young celebrity conservationist

Boyfriend Robert also jumped in on the lovefest by commenting a series of emojis which included a love heart and smiley face.

Finally, the Irwin Family matriarch swooped in with the big tick of approval as she wrote simply, 'Wonderful life adventures,' next to a love heart emoji.

It comes after Rorie reportedly completed an Irwin-approved 'wildlife warrior boot camp' before she and Robert went 'Instagram official' last month.

Sharing a reel of happy snaps to Instagram which depicted her most recent adventures with Robert Rorie declared her 'love' for his sister Bindi. Pictured: Bindi and husband Chandler Powell

The snaps included a sweet selfie of Robert and Rorie together, as well as a candid of him on his phone, before she showcased their latest fun activities together

It seems the pair have been tapping into their artistic creativity as the lovebirds sat down with a delicious platter of food while they painted a mountain landscape

Heading off for a stroll on the beach afterward, Rorie's comments beneath the happy reel became filled with Irwin love

Bindi kicked things off with a sweet message which said: 'Love you both so much.' Rorie promptly replied, 'Love you, Bindi,' alongside an emoji covered in hearts

Finally, the Irwin Family matriarch swooped in with the big tick of approval as she wrote simply, 'Wonderful life adventures,' next to a love heart emoji

Woman's Day claimed last Tuesday that Rorie had to win over the family by having a willingness to get out into nature.

The happy couple recently went on crocodile research trip together, where they uncovered 'critical data' for the Wildlife Warriors' Worldwide foundation.

Robert's mother Terri, 59, and sister Bindi, 25, have since been impressed by Rorie's dedication to Australian wildlife.

An insider claimed Rorie was 'determined to not let Robert down and show him - and his mum and sister - that she's not just some puff piece. And she blew them away.'
Jack Whitehall shared an amusing snap of himself as he got candid about his first few weeks of fatherhood.

The comedian, 35, and his girlfriend Roxy Horner confirmed that they had welcomed their first child, a daughter, together earlier this month.

And Jack has now given an insight into his first two weeks as a father as he shared a very candid snap to Instagram on Wednesday.

He posted an amusing picture of himself looking exhausted as he shut his eyes with a sign, normally used for the baby, reading 'shhh I'm sleepy' hooked over his lip.

In an accompanying caption, Jack admitted he couldn't believe it had only been two weeks as he lightheartedly shared his exhaustion.

Tired: Jack Whitehall shared an amusing snap of himself as he got candid about his first two weeks of fatherhood

Fatherhood: In an accompanying caption, Jack admitted he couldn't believe it had only been two weeks as he lightheartedly shared his exhaustion

He wrote: 'Can't believe I'm only two weeks into this. Also every morning I see these nappy's and think did someone sneak in last night and give my daughter five pints of Guinness and a kebab?'

Jack and Roxy are yet to confirm the name of their newborn daughter after they took her home from the Lindo Wing at St Mary's in London earlier this month.

The Lindo Wing has seen a host of Royal births including The Princess of Wales who welcomed her three children there, as well as many other famous faces.

After taking their baby home, Jack was full of love on as he praised his 'amazing' girlfriend Roxy Horner and shared the first photos of their newborn daughter.

Taking to Instagram, Jack admitted the experience was both 'utterly overwhelming' and 'joyous' in ways he 'couldn't have imagined'.

Sharing a snap of Roxy in the hospital bed after giving birth, Jack appeared happier than ever as he offered a wide grin and snapped a selfie.

In another snap, Jack can be seen cradling his daughter in his arms before leaving the hospital.

Writing alongside the adorable snaps, Jack penned: 'Well this just happened! Utterly overwhelming and joyous in ways I couldn't have even imagined.

'In awe of my partner @roxyhorner who has been amazing throughout this journey and is going to be the greatest mum ever. So excited to have started a family of my own.

New parents: The comedian, 35, and his girlfriend Roxy Horner confirmed that they had welcomed their first child, a daughter, together earlier this month

Family: Jack and Roxy are yet to confirm the name of their newborn daughter after they took her home from the Lindo Wing at St Mary's in London earlier this month

Sweet: After returning home from hospital, Roxy took to Instagram to share some snaps with her little one laid across her chest

'Having vowed I'd never be that guy I am now 100% going to be the parent that shows everyone endless pictures of their kid. I also wore skechers to hospital, I think I must accept I am a full blown dad now.

'Name wise after this weekend I think 'rice, rice, baby' has a nice ring to it.'

After returning home from hospital, Roxy took to Instagram to share some snaps with her little one laid across her chest.

Roxy propped herself up on some pillows and showed off her pink baby girl-themed manicure to celebrate the new arrival.

She captioned the sweet update: 'Snuggles at home,' and a heart emoji.
Samantha Armytage, 47, shared a gallery to her Instagram on Wednesday, where she spruiked an Airbnb oceanside cottage in Hyams Beach, NSW

One photo showed the stunning nature view from the cottage balcony and another captured the shack's Queen-size bed and stylishly arranged furniture.

'If you're looking for a fabulous school/summer holiday destination try Hyams Beachfront Shack,' she wrote next to the photos.

'Looking for a summer break? Find it on Airbnb.'

Samantha Armytage looks to be expanding her career by becoming a social media influencer

She also shared a photo of herself playing with her dog while relaxing on a sandy beach in a swimsuit.

Daily Mail Australia reached out to Sam for comment.

Sam sold her North Bondi home for $2.8million in July 2020, before moving to a Southern Highlands farm in New South Wales to live with her husband Richard Lavender.

The Farmer Wants A Wife host, 47, shared a gallery to her Instagram on Wednesday, where she spruiked an Airbnb oceanside cottage in Hyams Beach, NSW

She tied the knot with Lavender, a successful equestrian businessman, at his 40-hectare property in Bowral on New Year's Eve in 2020.

The journalist met her husband at socialite Skye Leckie's 60th birthday party in April 2019, and she said there was an instant connection.

She previously told Stellar: 'I think we make a good match. I was very lucky to find him at that point in my life.'

Sam posted a picture of the nature view from the cottage balcony

She told her fans it was the perfect holiday destination

Richard added about the early days of their romance: 'There's been a lot said about that stuff but, honestly, I think she was just looking for something a bit different when she met me.'

He is a stakeholder of Lavender Equestrian, which offers a variety of services for horses in the region, including breeding and training.

According to property records, his 40-hectare farm in Berrima cost $1.95million when he bought it in 2007.

Sam sold her North Bondi home for $2.8million in July 2020, before moving to a Southern Highlands farm in New South Wales to live with her husband Richard Lavender (left)
Sarah Jessica Parker looked as glamorous as ever as she attended the ATG summer party at Kensington Palace in London on Wednesday.

The actress, 58, wore a sensational green gown with a leggy thigh-high slit for the event as she was joined by her husband Matthew Broderick, 61.

She ensured all eyes were on her in the floaty number that featured a plunging neckline and cape-style chiffon sleeves.

Sarah styled her hair into soft waves and elevated her height with a pair of metallic strappy heels.

Joining her at the bash was Cara Delevingne, 31, who wore a chic pinstriped blazer and matching trousers.

Incredible: Sarah Jessica Parker, 58, looked as glamorous as ever as she attended the ATG summer party at Kensington Palace in London on Wednesday

Elsewhere, Jenna Coleman put on a chic display in a stunning lace dress that nipped in at her waist.

Charlotte Tilbury was also in attendance as she smiled for photos with Sarah and Cara.

The party was hosted by Ambassador Theatre Group CEO Mark Cornell In Honour of Sarah and Matthew.

It comes after it was recently announced And Just Like That has been renewed for a third season at HBO's streaming service Max, just days before the much-anticipated return of Kim Cattrall's iconic Sex and the City character Samantha Jones.

In a statement, Max's Head of Original Content Sarah Aubrey, said: 'As we approach the highly anticipated season finale on Thursday, we raise our cosmos to [showrunner] Michael Patrick King and his magnificent team of writers, producers, cast and crew who continue to charm us, 25 years later, with dynamic friendships and engaging stories.'

Aubrey added: 'We cannot wait for audiences to see where season three will take our favorite New Yorkers.'

King said: 'We are thrilled to spend more time in the Sex and the City universe telling new stories about the lives of these relatable and aspirational characters played by these amazing actors.'

Fans of the original Sex and the City have had a love-hate relationship with the new revival, that has sorely been missing Cattrall's sex-positive PR guru Samantha.

Stunning: The actress wore a sensational green gown with a leggy thigh-high slit for the event as she was joined by her husband Matthew Broderick, 61, (R) and CEO of ATG Mark Cornell (L)

Pose: Joining her at the bash was Cara Delevingne , 31, who wore a chic pinstriped blazer and matching trousers

Group: Charlotte Tilbury was also in attendance as she smiled for photos with Sarah and Cara

Sleek: Cara added a pair of black boots to complete her edgy look

Pretty: Elsewhere, Jenna Coleman put on a chic display in a stunning lace dress that nipped in at her waist

Glowing: Sarah styled her hair into soft waves

Perfect: The actress topped her elegant look off with a pair of chandelier earrings

Fun: Jenna cosied up to her beau Jamie Childs

Sensational: Nicola Coughlan looked incredible in a satin a lace gown

Sophisticated: Jenna later posed for a photo with Tracy Ifeachor, who wowed in a striped dress

Slick: James Norton also opted for an all-white outfit

Summer: The Happy Valley star wore a linen shirt and jacket

Eye-catching: Makeup mogul Charlotte wore a quirky tassled outfit

Guests: Rob Brydon (L) looked smart in a navy suit while Pete Waterman opted for a black blazer and a white shirt

Party: Hilary and Michael Whitehall enjoyed a glass of champagne

Sibling: Giles Terera attended with his sister Nikki Austin

Celebrations: Sir David Hare and Dame Penelope Wilton were also in attendance

In her absence, a host of new characters were introduced in the shape of Dr. Nya Wallace (Karen Pittman), Seema Patel (Sarita Choudhury), and Lisa Todd Wexley (Nicole Ari Parker).

However, viewers were stunned to learn earlier this year that despite being extremely vocal about her desire to move on from the character Samantha, Cattrall had secretly agreed to return in a surprise cameo appearance.

'It's very interesting to get a call from the head of HBO saying, "What can we do?"' Cattrall told The View in June, before adding with cheeky smile, 'And I went, "Hmmm let me get creative."

Cattrall's rider was pretty simple (aside from a no doubt eye-watering pay check): she wanted original costume designer Patricia Field to dress her for the scene.
Madeline Brewer looked unrecognisable as she attended the ATG Summer Party in Kensington Palace in London on Wednesday.

The actress, 31, who is best known as Janine in The Handmaid's Tale, looked worlds away from her fictional character at the star-studded summer party.

Gone were the oppressed handmaid's red robes and white wings and in its place was a slinky black strapless minidress which showcased Madeline's incredible figure.

Madeline was joined by cinematographer Jack Thompson-Roylance, who regularly posts pictures of the actress on his Instagram.

The pair put on a cosy display as they posed for a photograph at the celebration hosted by the Ambassador Theatre Group CEO Mark Cornell in honour of Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick.

Stylish display: Madeline Brewer looked unrecognisable as she attended the ATG Summer Party in Kensington Palace in London on Wednesday

Cosy: Madeline was joined by cinematographer Jack Thompson-Roylance, who regularly posts pictures of the actress on his Instagram

In character: The actress, 31, who is best known as Janine in The Handmaid's Tale, looked worlds away from her fictional character at the star-studded summer party

MailOnline has contacted Madeline's representatives for comment.

The actress also posed for a snap with Bridgerton's Nicola Coughlan.

Madeline has won a Primetime Emmy Award for her portrayal of Janine.

Last November Madeline said her character on The Handmaid's Tale played a key factor in her coming forward with her own story about abortion earlier this year.

The actress said in a piece from The Hollywood Reporter that both the role of Janine and one she has in a Cabaret adaptation have had abortions, serving as an inspiration to speak out after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.

'People talk about how much they love Janine and how much Janine has inspired them, and it felt important to me to talk about my own experience,' Brewer said of the character, who had an abortion storyline in the show's fourth season.

She continued: 'Right now Im doing theater in the West End, which Ive wanted to do my whole life, and this character has an abortion as well. I was preparing this audition during the overturn of Roe.

'I was playing Janine, preparing this audition, and now every single night I play a woman who goes through the feelings of getting pregnant, wanting to keep it, deciding not to keep it, because of the life that she wants for herself.'

Say cheese: Madeline was joined by cinematographer Jack, who regularly posts pictures of the actress on his Instagram

Acting queens: The actress also posed for a snap with Bridgerton's Nicola Coughlan

The New Jersey native told the outlet of the timeline that led to her speaking out: 'When I filmed Janines scenes where she was getting an abortion and being manipulated by these crisis pregnancy centers, Roe v. Wade was still intact.

'But having that storyline was actually a really incredible grieving process for me for my own abortion that I spoke about online in June after the overturn of Roe.'
A man accused of stalking Drew Barrymore has been arrested after an uncomfortable incident at New York Fashion Week in which he was looking for actress Emma Watson.

Chad Michael Busto, 43, was taken into custody Friday in New York City after he trespassed at the Brooklyn Navy Yard while looking for Watson, 33, TMZ reported Wednesday citing court docs.

Authorities said Busto made his way into a dressing room at the venue, where a show was going on, and yelled at nearby makeup artists and models.

'I want to marry Emma Watson,' he yelled, according to court docs. 'Let me speak to Emma Watson. Let me take a photo with Emma Watson.'

It was not immediately clear if Watson was present or nearby in the incident, according to the outlet.

Arrested: Chad Michael Busto, 43, who has been accused of stalking Drew Barrymore, has been arrested after an incident at New York Fashion Week in which he was looking for actress Emma Watson, 33. Busto was pictured following a court hearing in the Hamptons August 25

Busto was looking for Watson in the incident Friday; he is also dealing with the legal fallout from multiple incidents involving Barrymore. Watson was pictured in NYC last week

Busto was arrested after event management contacted the authorities, according to the outlet.

Busto was charged with two counts of trespassing and two counts of disorderly conduct in connection with the incident Friday.

Busto already had an active warrant for his arrest after he did not appear to get a GPS monitor affixed to his person.

A Southampton Town Justice Court judge issued a bench warrant for Busto after he didn't show up for a fitting for the GPS monitor, a court clerk told TMZ September 5.

The GPS was conditional after Busto was taken into custody in late August after he showed up at Barrymore's home in Long Island, New York without invite, days after she was whisked off a stage in New York City when he showed up during a speaking engagement she had.

Busto was taken into custody August 23 after officials said that he was seen scouring her Hamptons neighborhood looking for the $6 million home she lives in there, according to the outlet.

Barrymore, 48, was not at the residence at the time Busto was apprehended there, sources told the outlet.

On August 21, two days before the arrest, Busto charged at the stage Barrymore was on during at interview with Renee Rapp at the 92nd Street Y in New York City, the outlet reported.

Authorities said Busto made his way into a dressing room at the venue and yelled at nearby makeup artists and models

Busto was charged with two counts of trespassing and two counts of disorderly conduct in connection with the incident Friday

In an August 25 hearing at Southampton Town Justice Court, Judge Barbara Wilson released Busto - who was charged with misdemeanor fourth-degree stalking in the incident at her home - under the condition he be fitted with a GPS tracker

A judge issued a bench warrant for Busto after he didn't show up for a fitting for the GPS monitor

At the event, according to the New York Post, Busto shouted at Barrymore, 'You know who I am! I need to see you at some point while you're in New York!'

Busto was restrained from the stage by a guard on the premises as Rapp led Barrymore off the stage.

Police sources told the paper that Busto has 'a lengthy criminal record' in the wake of the incident.

According to multiple police reports reviewed by the paper, Busto's criminal record dates back to June of 1999 and as recently as January of 2022.

Among the crimes listed on his record - spread over multiple states - included harassment, criminal trespass, resisting arrest, indecent exposure, disorderly conduct and theft.

In an August 25 hearing at Southampton Town Justice Court, Judge Barbara Wilson released Busto - who was charged with misdemeanor fourth-degree stalking in the incident at her home - under the condition he be fitted with a GPS tracker.

In the hearing, Busto told the court he was bankrupt and looking to live at a shelter. He said he was due to appear at a September 3 hearing in Texas in a federal court.

Busto told DailyMail.com that he had crossed paths with Barrymore around 10 years ago, and was hoping to be in a romance with her.

On August 21, two days before the arrest, Busto charged at the stage Barrymore was on during at interview with Renee Rapp at the 92nd Street Y in New York City

Barrymore after she was whisked off a stage in New York City when he showed up during a speaking engagement she had

A source close to Barrymore said that the actress was not rattled by the disturbing series of events.

'Drew feels good, feels safe, and even at the moment, it happened so fast she was OK and didn't stress about it,' the source said. 'She has moved on from the incident as she knows that people were there to protect her.'

The source continued: 'The one thing she didn't want to happen was to make the incident the thing that was remembered for the night, so she forgot about it as soon as it was over, and she continued talking to Renee and revert the attention back to the conversation, that is what was important for Drew.

'She is not going to change the way she runs her life and protects herself, all those things are and have been set for her during her entire life, and she doesn't want anyone to worry about her wellbeing.'
Australian influencer and entrepreneur Georgie Stevenson is facing backlash after sharing a shocking theory on her health and wellness podcast, Rise & Conquer.

In the episode, which has now been deleted, Georgie and her producer Atiyya Batty discussed whether or not 'getting sick is a choice'.

'She believes that getting sick is a choice ... and your body gets presented with the virus and your subconscious chooses whether it wants to take the upgrade or not,' Batty told Stevenson.

'Oh my god, I one hundred per cent believe this!' exclaimed Stevenson.

'Do you? Okay good!' Batty replied.

Australian influencer and entrepreneur Georgie Stevenson is facing backlash after sharing a conspiracy theory on her health and wellness podcast, Rise & Conquer

In the episode, which has now been deleted, Georgie and her producer Atiyya Batty discussed whether or not 'getting sick is a choice'

The episode sparked a wave of backlash, with one listener writing, 'Cool, they can tell that to my lupus. What a dangerous rhetoric. My god.'

Another commented, 'Yeah because getting sick is an upgrade, 2 absolute twits. I'm also 100% certain I didn't choose any upgrade when I was "presented" and "offered" COVID.'

The Rise & Conquer podcast is one of Australia's leading health and fitness podcasts, boasting more than 10million downloads since its launch.

In addition to the podcast, Stevenson boasts over 400,000 followers on Instagram and is behind the hugely popular protein and supplements brand, Naked Harvest.

The brand is known for its natural ingredients and sweet, delicious flavours, despite being sugar free.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Georgie Stevenson for comment.

Batty and Stevenson are pictured on the cover of the podcast, which is one of the most popular health and fitness podcasts in Australia

In addition to the podcast, Stevenson boasts over 400,000 followers on Instagram and is behind the hugely popular protein and supplements brand, Naked Harvest

It comes after Married At First Sight star-turned-influencer Ella Ding was slammed for claiming on her podcast that positive thinking can help cure cancer.

During an episode about gratitude and mental health, Ding said, 'Your mind can kill you. It can make you sick.

'If youre sick in whatever way it may be, whether it's with illness, if you have cancer, or if you have depression, you can literally make yourself sicker by focusing on how sick you are,' she continued.

'You can end up terminally ill,' the 29-year-old added.

According to the Cancer Council, some scientific studies do suggest that mindbody techniques can benefit people who have cancer by reducing the symptoms and side effects of cancer and its treatment, such as helping with pain and anxiety.

However, there is absolutely no scientific evidence that these techniques can cure the disease.

It comes after Married At First Sight star-turned-influencer Ella Ding (pictured) was slammed for claiming on her podcast that positive thinking can help cure cancer

Listeners flooded Ella's podcast with one-star reviews after the episode about cancer dropped

Ding then went on to tout the work of chiropractor Joe Dispenza before referencing his book, How to Rewire Your Brain.

'He has hundreds of case studies of people who were sick with cancer, and he literally trained them to just imagine not being sick,' she claimed.

'Imagine the cancer is leaving your body. Imagine the cells are going away. Hes literally cured patients without chemotherapy,' she added.

Ding received major backlash since the controversial episode went live earlier this month.

Not only is her Instagram page now flooded with negative comments, listeners of her Sit With Us podcast have also left scathing one-star reviews.

'Telling people that their cancer became terminal because they didnt practice mindfulness? Dangerous and offensive,' raged one listener.

'This is quite offensive and just totally wrong. Not sure how this podcast was even released. Big public apology needed. Cancelled!' wrote another.
Pregnant Hannah Cooper revealed on Wednesday that she is eating spicy food to try and induce her labour.

The model, 32, is eagerly awaiting the birth of her first child with her comedian husband Joel Dommett, 38.

And she has now taken to her Instagram Story to say she ordered a hot Nandos to bring things along.

Hannah penned: 'Screw the vindaloo, proud I managed HOT if I'll be honest I might go Extra HOT next time!?'

She also admitted she was watching some 'food porn' to try and raise her Oxytocin levels in the hopes of inducing her birth.

Getting ready: Pregnant Hannah Cooper revealed on Wednesday that she is eating spicy food to try and induce her labour

Measures: She took to her Instagram Story to say she ordered a hot Nandos to bring things along

There's no scientific evidence proving that eating spicy foods can induce labor.

It comes after Joel larked around with Hannah as he cradled her baby bump on the National Television Awards' red carpet last Tuesday.

The star and his wife posed up a storm on the red carpet before he took to the stage at London's O2 Arena to host the 28th National Television Awards.

For the occasion, Joel cut a suave figure in a suave tuxedo, made up of smart black trousers, a white shirt, a black bowtie and a cream blazer.

Meanwhile, his pregnant wife Hannah showed off her baby bump in a fitted black gown with pearls adorned on the straps.

Joel sweetly cradled his wife's baby bump as they both smiled and laughed while posing on the red carpet, as they count down the days until their first child's arrival.

Joel previously told how NTA bosses had a crisis plan in place in case his heavily pregnant wife Hannah went into labour during the ceremony, with a second host on standby.

But the back-up plan wasn't needed and Joel successfully helmed the show, with Holly Willoughby saying on Wednesday's This Morning that they hadn't heard any baby news from Joel yet.

Update: She also admitted she was watching some 'food porn' to try and raise her Oxytocin levels in the hopes of inducing her birth

Exciting: The model, 32, is eagerly awaiting the birth of her first child with her comedian husband Joel Dommett, 38

Plans: Joel previously told how NTA bosses had a crisis plan in place in case his heavily pregnant wife Hannah went into labour during the ceremony, with a second host on standby

Speaking of the crisis plan ahead of the ceremony, Joel told how a standby host would be waiting in the wings in case he need to run off stage mid-ceremony.

He told Fleur East on her Hits Radio Breakfast Show: 'Hannah is very much ready to give birth! She hasn't given birth as of now so that's great news for me as I'm sure the production team are ready to replace me at any moment.'

Joel continued: 'I think I have a stand in, but they won't tell me who it is. I assume they'll be there tonight but that's the best thing about the NTA's - if it does happen during the ceremony everyone who could replace me is there right in front of me!'

He went on to share another reason why Hannah won't be on the red carpet, explaining: 'At the moment we think she's just going to come and hang in the dressing room because  I'll be honest on Hits Radio  we couldn't find a dress.

'And she's so pregnant now  she's six foot tall and essentially with another human being underneath her stomach - and dresses don't come in that size. You put them on and you look like Mrs Doubtfire.'

Joel previously revealed he'd be skipping the official NTAs afterparty to have his own own post-awards bash to be with his heavily pregnant wife.

Joel and Hannah met after she slid into his DMs following his 2016 appearance on I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!, sending him a heart eye emoji.

Joel previously recalled how 'blown away' he was by how funny Hannah and revealed that they went on their first date just days later, and they made their first public appearance together in May 2017.

Joel and Hannah announced their engagement in December 2017 after a year of dating, and in May 2019 confirmed that they had purchased their first house together.

In 2018, he told Metro.co.uk: 'This is the person I want to spend the rest of my life with. It's easy. Nothing feels difficult about talking about the future.'

The couple married in 2019 after three years together, in an idyllic ceremony Mykonos, officiated by their friend Iain Stirling.

Cute: Joel and Hannah met after she slid into his DMs following his 2016 appearance on I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!, sending him a heart eye emoji

Happy: The couple married in 2019 after three years together, in an idyllic ceremony Mykonos, officiated by their friend Iain Stirling

They announced they are expecting their first child together in June and are now counting down the days until welcoming their little one.

Joel and Hannah co-hosted an ITV comedy series during the coronavirus lockdown, and appeared on Gogglebox together.

Joel exclusively told MailOnline in 2021: 'I love working with Hannah, I really do. She's so naturally joyful and funny, and likeable, something I've had to work at for 15 years, and it just comes to her naturally, which is very frustrating.

'She's great and I really like working with her so hopefully over the next couple of years we'll do more together.'
Any ideas Sylvester Stallone may have had of a quiet time sightseeing and shopping with his family in Rome, Italy ended soon after the first of many people recognized him on the street.

On Wednesday, the Hollywood legend stepped out to soak in the sights with his wife Jennifer Flavin and their daughters Sophie, Scarlett and Sistine as part of their late-summer vacation.

And it didn't take long before fans started to gather around them, causing quite the commotion, as they tried to walk from one street to the next browsing at storefronts.

The family of five seemed to focus on the fashion district of The Eternal City, and in particular the famed fashion triangle, which is known for its boutiques and shops full of clothing in and around the historic center.

At one point in the afternoon Stallone and his family were swarmed by fans and had to be escorted their way through the growing crowd, which was partly documented in a video posted on his Instagram page.

Scroll down to video

Shopping spree: Sylvester Stallone, 77, and wife Jennifer Flavin, 55, were all smiles during a day of shopping and sightseeing in Rome, Italy that began quietly but eventually turned into a massive crowd looking to get a look and photo of the Hollywood legend

The Rocky star, 77, looked lean and fit dressed casually in fitted blue jeans, a black t-shirt and matching sneakers.

He also donned cool dark sunglasses a good deal of is time out in public, and had his salt and pepper hair cut short, over the ears, and styled back off his face, would

For the most part, Flavin, 55, was by her husband's side looking stylish in tight white pants that she wore with a white top and an off-white blazer.

Rounding out her overall look, the former model wore sandals, dark sunglasses, and and had her lightened locks pulled back off her face and into a ponytail, with the exception of a few strands of hair she left dangling around the frame of her face.

During their shopping spree Flavin and her girls spent a nice chunk of time checking out the various high-end purses and bags.

But eventually they would make their way back out to the streets where a small group of fans had grown to a massive crowd looking to get a look and photo of the legendary actor.

A video posted on Instagram showed the couple, including his brother Frank Stallone, getting an escort through the lines of people yelling and screaming while snapping away photos and videos.

'A quiet afternoon of shopping with the family,' the Rambo star joked in the caption , before adding, 'Love the fans love this country.'

Browsing: The couple and their daughters Sophia, 27, Sistine, 25, and Scarlet, 21, seem to gravitate to an area that showcased purses and other high-end bags

Lovebirds: For the most part, Flavin stayed by her husband's side while out shopping

Time out: The Rambo legend seemed to take a time out while the ladies of the family browsed t the many high-end fashion pieces on display

On a mission: Stallone did his best to stay out of the way and let the ladies of his family shop

Shopping spree: By the time they had reached the purse section of the store, the sisters had already made a purchase or two

Quality time: Stallone and Flavin both appeared to be relishing in their time together

Sweet: The couple packed on the PDA with the occasional loving touch and walking arm-in-arm through the stores and again out on the streets

At a certain point in the clip, the camera turns away from Stallone and towards the crowd that continued to grow in each direction of the fashion district.

Despite all the mayhem, it didn't seem to bother Stallone and Flavin, who both had smiles on their faces as they were being led past all the adoring fans and on to their next destination.

The visit to Rome appears to be part business and pleasure for the Stallones, who on certain days had cameras of their own following them as part of the shoot for The Family Stallone.

It appears any of the new footage from their Italian getaway will be part of the second season of their reality show that focuses on the couple and their adult daughters Sophia, 27, Sistine, 25, and Scarlet, 21.

Mob scene: Eventually the small crowd who had noticed Stallone had turned into a massive crowd who trying to get a photo of the Hollywood legend

Sense of humor: Stallone joked about it being a 'quiet afternoon of shopping with the family' when he posted a video of the crowd scene that gathered around him and his family that included brother Frank Stallone

Mass of humanity: The video was turned around to show how the crowd had continued to grow in each direction of the fashion district

Crowd control: Security escorted the Stallones through the growing crowd of fans; they never seemed to be bother from the looks of the smiles on their faces

Spreading the word: The crowd of fans continued to grow by the second as word circulated that the movie star and his family were there shopping

The Family Stallone premiere don Paramount+ on May 17, and within a week of hits debut got the greenlit for season number two.

Just days earlier, Stallone, his wife, three daughters, and brother Frank had the honor of meeting Pope Francis during a trip to The Vatican.

During the visit Stallone discovered, to his surprise, that the Pontiff has been a fan of his for many years, according to Deadline.

The meeting with the Pontiff was captured in a video that was shared on social media by Vatican News.

The clip shows a smiling Pope telling Stallone that he was he was a longtime fan.

Major moment: Stallone joked with Pope Francis during their meeting at The Vatican on Friday September 8

Fans: The Pontiff revealed to Stallone that he has long been a fan of his work in Hollywood

Monumental: Stallone's three daughters Sophia, 27, Sistine, 25, and Scarlet, 21, were also on hand to meet to meet the Pontiff at The Vatican

Milestone meeting: Stallone also took a photo of his wife and daughters inside Vatican City

Stallone began the meeting, saying: 'Well, thank you very much for taking time from your busy day. We appreciate this very much.'

The Pope replied, 'I am honored. We grew up with your films.'

Clearly taken aback by the revelation, the action hero replied, 'Well Im honored, too,' before raising his fists and air-pumping, saying: 'Ready? We box.'

The Pope added to the joke by throwing a fake jab, which clearly caught everyone by surprise.

The group later assembled for a photo that would also be shared on Vatican News.

'He knocked me cold!' Stallone captioned the four photos he posted on his Instagram page. 'What a fantastic day with the family.'
Kyle Sandilands shocked his co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson on Thursday by revealing his one-year-old son Otto is already a millionaire.

The radio king, 52, was discussing his own big spending habits on The Kyle and Jackie O Show when Jackie, 48, said he should be more careful with money to ensure Otto has an inheritance.

'Otto's already been loaded up by his great-grandfather, so no worries for him,' Kyle shot back.

'He's wealthy. My child's a millionaire, he's already got a million dollars in his bank.'

He then joked he was jealous of his own wealthy child.

Kyle Sandilands shocked his co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson on Thursday by revealing his one-year-old son Otto is already a millionaire. Pictured: Kyle and Otto at the KIIS FM Studio in Sydney

Kyle and his wife Tegan welcomed their first child Otto on August 11, 2022.

Last month, Kyle spent a whopping $25,000 on Otto's first birthday party, and the KIIS FM star shocked Jackie with the lavish plans.

Kyle revealed he even got a party planner for the day with 24 children and 38 adults invited to celebrate the youngster.

The radio king, 52, was discussing his own big spending habits on The Kyle and Jackie O Show when Jackie (pictured) said he should be more careful with money to ensure Otto has an inheritance

'It's only $25,000,' Kyle said. 'It's a watered-down type of party.'

Newsreader Brooklyn Ross was in disbelief asking Kyle if that claim was a 'joke' while co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson sarcastically called the celebration plans 'low-key'.

Kyle has been besotted by Otto in his first year of fatherhood.

'Otto's already been loaded up by his great-grandfather, so no worries for him,' Kyle shot back

The shock jock gushed over the tot during an interview with Daily Mail Australia in October last year.

'I used to watch hours and hours of TV, and now I just sit there looking at him and he's really been a joy,' he said.

'I've just been sitting at home the whole time which I've enjoyed. I'm at home now more than I was with lockdowns, so we're loving every second of it. I'm pretty happy actually. I can't imagine being any happier.'

Kyle admitted he never dreamed of having children, but now he's 'thrilled' he decided to take the plunge and become a dad.

Kyle joked Otto was so wealthy that he was jealous of him
Naomi Campbell and Winnie Harlow looked as glamorous as ever as they led the stars at the LAVO launch party at The BoTree in London on Wednesday.

The supermodel, 53, who recently signed a deal with PrettyLittleThing, showed off her incredible sense of style at the launch of the new restaurant from the TAO Group.

She looked effortlessly chic in a white crocheted gown with a ruffled neckline and a tiered skirt, which she styled with dark black sunglasses.

Naomi toted her essentials in a small orange handbag with a chain strap and simply accessorisd her look with silver droplet earrings.

She was joined at the event by Canadian model Winnie, 29, who put on a very leggy display in a fitted white mini dress with quirky metal straps.

Stunners: Naomi Campbell and Winnie Harlow looked as glamorous as ever as they led the stars at the LAVO launch party at The BoTree in London on Wednesday

Chic: The supermodel, 53, who recently signed a deal with PrettyLittleThing , showed off her incredible sense of style at the launch of the new restaurant from the TAO Group

Winnie gave herself a few extra inches in a pair of silver strapped heels and wore her caramel tresses loosely cascading across her shoulders as she posed for snaps.

They were joined at the glitzy launch event by a whole host of stars including Jared Leto, who kept it casual in a tracksuit as he smiled for snaps outside the venue.

Poppy Delevingne was also in attendance with her older sister Chloe and she looked as stylish as ever in wide-leg faux-leather burgundy trousers and a patterned top.

Love Island's Tasha Ghouri, actress Wallis Day and Made In Chelsea's Sophie Hermann were also among the guests at the launch night.

Guests were welcomed to a selection of cocktails including the LAVO-LINI, Pineapple Tommys Margarita, the LAVO G&T and House Margarita.

Canapes included arancini with wild mushrooms and truffle aioli, tuna tartare and gnoccho fritto with stracciatella and caviar.

Guests also flocked to the seafood station where they indulged in oysters, little neck clams, King crab legs, lobster, prawns, caviar and scallop ceviche whilst the pizza and carving station proved to be quite the hit.

It comes after Naomi unveiled her new 90-piece collection with PrettyLittleThing earlier this month and released her first TV advert with the online brand.

Style icon: She looked effortlessly chic in a white crocheted gown with a ruffled neckline and a tiered skirt, which she styled with dark black sunglasses

Incredible: She was joined at the event by Canadian model Winnie, 29, who put on a very leggy display in a fitted white mini dress with quirky metal straps

Peace out! They were joined at the glitzy launch event by a whole host of stars including Jared Leto

Poser: Jared kept it casual in a tracksuit as he smiled and playfully posed for snaps outside the venue

Elegant: Poppy Delevingne was also and looked as stylish as ever in wide-leg faux-leather burgundy trousers and a patterned top

Sisters! Poppy was joined by her older sister Chloe, who looked equally stylish in a white jumpsuit

Daring: Love Island's Tasha Ghouri made sure to capture attention in a fitted black top and sheer lace shorts from Alexander Wang

High glamour: Tasha toted her essentials in a small black handbag as she pulled out all the stops for the evening

She showed off the collection at the illustrious Cipriani's during New York Fashion Week last week as she also walked in the show in a 85 see-through silver dress.

PLT founder Umar Kamani was instrumental in engineering the project via his close friendship with Naomi.

The CEO was keen to make his last event with PLT to be the biggest in their history before he steps down to to pursue 'new challenges and goals'.

Naomi hit back at critics of her collaboration with PrettyLittleThing, insisting 'fashion shouldn't discriminate'.

The star has worked with prestigious fashion houses such as Prada, Burberry and Yves Saint Laurent before confirming her surprise collaboration with PLT.

She vowed to ignore the snobbery towards 'fast fashion', insisting outside influences have never impacted her decisions as she says she will spearhead positive change in the industry.

In an exclusive interview with MailOnline, Naomi revealed a major factor behind the surprise deal with PLT was her desire to design her own clothes, claiming fashion brands don't usually give models the opportunity, favouring celebrity names instead.

When her collaboration, which is priced between 10 to 150 and comes in sizes 4-30, was announced in July she was hit with a negative reaction from critics who claimed she was putting her reputation on the line by fronting a campaign for the brand, which often emulates designer looks at a cheaper cost.

Hitting back, Naomi said: 'I feel this collection was fun, chic, sexy, vibrant, inclusive, and fashion should not discriminate...

'Who's to say that PrettyLittleThing are not going to continue working with young creatives and leading and changing into sustainability, who knows. New beginnings.'

The mother-of-two says working with PrettyLittleThing has been an empowering experience following decades of wearing the designs of other fashion houses as she becomes the changing face of a new era.

She added: 'I have worked for years for everybody else. It's nice to do something for me.

'Whenever they think of working with someone, they never come to the actual models, they usually go to the celebrities.

Sophisticated: Made In Chelsea's Sophie Hermann looked elegant in a black mini dress with puffed sleeves and silver heels

Trendy: Wallis Day showed off her toned figure in jumpsuit made up of black trousers and a cut-out waistcoat top with sheer sleeves, which gave a flash of her sequinned bra beneath

All smiles: She kept her essentials in a small black clutch bag as she stepped out of the venue

Big news: It comes after Naomi unveiled her new 90-piece collection with PrettyLittleThing earlier this month and released her first TV advert with the online brand

Wow! She showed off the collection at the illustrious Cipriani's during New York Fashion Week last week as she also walked in the show in a 85 see-through silver dress

'There are a few other models that have done fast fashion, and they were totally praised and adored and are loved.

'I don't think about other people when I say yes to something. If I understand it and I see what it can be then that's how I commit to the things I do.'

Asked if she thinks there could be a second collection, she quipped: 'I am going wherever Umar goes now...

'But I'm always nervous when I do anything publicly... I am satisfied but now let's see how the sales go. From A-Z... I care.'
Kim Jong Un, Putin hold talks

Xinhua) 14:21, September 14, 2023

SEOUL, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Kim Jong Un, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) had a historic meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday in the Russian Far East, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Thursday.

Kim, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK, met with his Russian counterpart at the Vostochny spaceport in the Amur region, the report said.

The two leaders had a one-on-one session after an extended talk which also involved senior officials from the two countries.

According to the KCNA, the extended talk addressed the issues of further consolidating the friendship, solidarity and cooperative relations and boosting mutual trust by deepening the exchanges and cooperation in various fields including high-level visits between the two countries, and steadily expanding the bilateral ties.

The two sides also had a wide-ranging and in-depth exchange of views on important issues of mutual concern.

During the one-on-one meeting, Kim and Putin reached an agreement and consensus on further strengthening strategic and tactical cooperation between the two countries and extending strong support to and solidarity with each other on the common front of frustrating military threats.

At the invitation of Putin, Kim left the DPRK capital Pyongyang on Sunday to visit Russia by a special train and arrived in the Russian border city of Khasan early Tuesday.

According to the KCNA, Kim also visited the Vostochny spaceport with Putin on Wednesday. The Russian president hosted on the same day a welcoming reception for Kim and accepted Kim's invitation to visit his country.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Line Of Duty's Martin Compston revealed a huge update on the new series of the police drama on Wednesday.

The actor, 39, who stars as Detective Inspector Steve Arnott in the hit BBC show alongside Vicky McClure and Adrian Dunbar, said that writer Jed Mercurio had created a WhatsApp group chat.

Martin explained how Jed has cheekily changed the name of the chat from Line Of Duty 6 to Line Of Duty 7, however he hasn't yet said anything else.

The television writer is currently on strike in support of the Writers Guild of America as it enters its 19th week on industrial action.

Sharing an update on his podcast Restless Natives, Martin explained: 'We have got a WhatsApp group that was 'Line of Duty 6' and a while ago Jed changed the name of it to 'Line of Duty 7'.

Could it be? Line Of Duty's Martin Compston revealed a huge update on the new series of the police drama on Wednesday

Season 7: The actor stars as Detective Inspector Steve Arnott in the hit BBC show alongside Vicky McClure and Adrian Dunbar and said writer Jed Mercurio had created a group chat

He continued: 'What I love about it is we have never spoken about it since.

'We have had such a good run with it and a bit of you does go 'Let's walk away on a high' but we all want to work together again because we are so close.

'We wouldn't do it just for the sake of it. It would have to add to the series, it would have to make the series better.'

A source told The Sun: 'There was a very strong feeling, particularly among fans, that there was unfinished business with Line of Duty.

'Viewers werent satisfied with the ending of series six and were crying out for a more sensational conclusion  now Jed can deliver that.

'The fact that theyre looking at taking the unusual step of making three episodes rather than the usual six or seven is a reflection of just how special this is for the show.'

Last month, Martin, Adrian, and Line of Duty creator Jed reunited to celebrate Vicky's wedding.

And Vicky certainly let her hair down during the reception as she partied with her Line of Duty co-stars after secretly tying the knot with fiance Jonny Owen.

Sneaky: Martin explained how Jed has cheekily changed the name of the chat from Line Of Duty 6 to Line Of Duty 7, but hasn't yet said anything else (Jed pictured in October 2022)

Party: Last month, Martin, Adrian, and Line of Duty creator Jed reunited to celebrate Vicky's wedding.

The actress, 40, had earlier walked down the aisle with her film director beau, 54, in a romantic ceremony in Nottingham, before later announcing the news on Jonny's daughter Katie Owen's BBC Wales show.

Vicky was certainly off duty during the evening's celebrations as she downed cans of Red Stripe Beer with her co-stars.

The group looked in great spirits as they happily posed for photos together, with Vicky clutching onto her drink for the snap.

Things then took a comical turn as Martin, who plays DI Steve Arnott in the police drama and Jed Mercurio donned police hats alongside actor Craig Parkinson who plays DI Matthew 'Dot' Cottan.
Liev Schreiber and wife Taylor Neisen were pictured together for the first time, after confirming that they welcomed their first child - a daughter named Hazel Bee.

The actor, 55, and the former beauty queen, 31, were seen on a stroll in New York City with the Ray Donovan star pushing a beige baby stroller.

The duo - who were last seen together in August when Taylor sported a far-along baby bump - appeared besotted while taking a glance into the baby carriage at one point, with Taylor sweetly linking arms with her husband.

Liev also took to his Instagram on Wednesday to announce the happy news and reveal his daughter's name.

'So happy that Hazel Bee is finally here. She arrived early in the morning of August 27th and has been a dream every day since. Mom and baby are both super happy and healthy. Thanks to all for the love and support.'

Baby joy! Liev Schreiber and wife Taylor Neisen were pictured together for the first time, after confirming that they welcomed their first child - a daughter named Hazel Bee

Proud parents: The actor, 55, and the former beauty queen, 31, were pictured on a stroll in New York City with the Ray Donovan star pushing a beige baby stroller

Adorable: Liev also took to his Instagram on Wednesday to announce the happy news and reveal his daughter's name

The actor gave a glimpse of Hazel's little hand and foot as he shared two snaps of the newborn.

His 546K fans and followers were quick to congratulate him on the happy news.

'Congrats yall!! Welcome Hazel!!' actor Drew Powell wrote.

'Welcome beautiful Hazel! Congratulations Liev & Taylor!' another person wrote.

'Many blessings for you and your family,' yet another fan added.

Liev already has two children with ex-partner Naomi Watts, 54: Alexander 'Sasha,' 16, and Samuel 'Kai,' 15.

Earlier on his walk the doting dad sported a casual look for the outing, wearing a black t-shirt, matching pants and a Muhammad Ali snapback hat.

Taylor enjoyed the walk in a black top, a beige wrap-around baby carrier and blue jeans.

She was later pictured bonding with Hazel as she moved her from the stroller into the baby wrap.

Cute: The actor gave a glimpse of Hazel's little hand and foot as he shared two snaps of the newborn

Casual: Earlier on his walk the doting dad sported a casual look for the outing, wearing a black t-shirt, matching pants and a Muhammad Ali snapback hat

First outing with Hazel: His wife was later pictured with baby Hazel strapped to her chest in her baby carrier

New mom: Taylor enjoyed the walk in a black top, a beige wrap-around baby carrier and blue jeans

Bumpin' along: Taylor was first seen with a baby bump in June; Seen on her Instagram

Updates: She kept fans updated with social media snaps of her pregnant belly

Happily married: Liev and the blonde beauty married in a secret ceremony in July; Pictured June 2023

The blonde beauty had her tresses pulled up into a bun and shielded her eyes with a pair of sunglasses.

She wore comfortable sandals for the outing and accessorized with a chunky gold necklace.

While Liev was in charge of the pram, Taylor was on pet duty as she walked the couple's dog.

The pair were previously last seen in late August, as they stepped out in New York. Taylor covered up her far-along baby bump in a flowy black dress with coordinating sandals.

Taylor was first seen with a baby bump in June, and later shared snaps of her pregnant belly on social media.

Liev and Taylor married in a secret ceremony in July.

Dailymail.com revealed they exchanged vows in front of only four guests - two of them being his children.

Dad-of-three: Liev already has two children with ex-partner Naomi Watts : Alexander 'Sasha,' 16, and Samuel 'Kai,' 15; Seen in 2015

As they were: Liev and Naomi, 54, split in 2016 after being together for 11 years; Pictured 2016 in Toronto

Also at the wedding was author Jonathan Safran Foer and his wife; Jonathan officiated the wedding.

They wed inside their oceanfront Montauk home, which is a 3,500 square foot home with four bedrooms and four and a half baths.

He previously shared the home with Naomi; they split in 2016 after being together for 11 years.

Liev and Taylor started dating in 2017; the model is also the former Miss South Dakota.
A gorgeous pad that was at one time the home of Australian-born Hollywood star Toni Collette has gone under the hammer for a whopping $5.815million.

Featuring three-bedrooms and two-bathrooms the sprawling property was rented by Colette, 50, who split from her husband Dave Galafassi last year reports Domain.

Situated in the harbourside suburb of Birchgrove in the city's inner-west, the gorgeous three-level free-standing cottage is just 10mins from the CBD.

Featuring stunning views of Sydney's iconic skyline and harbour bridge, the classic spread is a stylish combination of original features with luxurious updates.

Highlights include beautifully scaled interiors, with soaring ceilings, timber floors, Leadlight windows and Velux skylights.

The one-time Sydney home of Australian-born Hollywood star Toni Collette has gone under the hammer for a whopping $5,815,000million

Featuring three-bedrooms and two-bathrooms the sprawling property was rented by Colette, 50, who split from her husband Dave Galafassi last year reports Domain Pictured: Toni Collette on the red carpet in New York in March

Situated in the harbourside suburb of Birchgrove in the city's inner-west, the gorgeous three-level free-standing cottage is just 10mins from the CBD Pictured: The living room

Meanwhile, the master bedroom boasts a lavish ensuite with expansive wardrobes.

There's also a large gourmet kitchen, private office and a delightful private verandah.

The property, which was bought by a local doctor on September, last changed hands in 2010 for $1.5million.

Colette's Birchgrove neighbours included Australian acting 'royalty' Bryan Brown and his wife, Rachel Ward, who bought a harbourside pad nearby in 1994.

Colette is one of Australia's most acclaimed actors, starring in The Sixth Sense, Little Miss Sunshine, The Hours, Knives Out and the television series United States of Tara.

She was nominated for an Oscar for The Sixth Sense and won an Emmy for United States of Tara, for which she also picked up a Golden Globe.

It comes after the Muriel's Wedding star announced last December she was splitting from her musician husband, Dave Galafassi, 44.

The couple, who were together for nearly 20 years have two children aged 14 and 11 and have divided their time between Australia and the United States in recent years.

The pair met in 2002 at the launch of Galafassi's band Gelbison's debut album Metal Detector in Sydney and their second encounter came just a few days later at a house party.

The property, which was bought by a local doctor on September, last changed hands in 2010 for $1.5million Picture: One of two bathrooms

The beautiful bedroom

Galafassi confirmed their split in December when he was pictured passionately kissing chiropractor Shannon Egan at Manly Beach in Sydney.

Daily Mail Australia contacted Toni's management about the photos, and hours later she announced the couple had split in a joint statement released on her newly reactivated Instagram account.

'It is with grace and gratitude that we announce we are divorcing,' the pair wrote.

'We're united in our decision and part with continuing respect and care for each other.
Catelynn Baltierra supported her husband Tyler during his emotional ketamine therapy on Wednesday's episode of Teen Mom: The Next Chapter on MTV.

Tyler and Catelynn during the episode titled My Biggest Heartbreak both confronted the circumstances that led to putting their first child Carly up for adoption.

'Sexual abuse, I think created a hypersexual behavior which resulted in us being irresponsible and then that happened,' Tyler, 31, said. 'And I'm really, really sorry.'

'Sorry for what?' Catelynn, 31, said.

'We didn't get to parent her,' Tyler said crying. 'I just felt very guilty that behavior resulted with Carly and you had to go through so much s***.'

Ketamine therapy: Catelynn Baltierra supported her husband Tyler during his emotional ketamine therapy on Wednesday's episode of Teen Mom: The Next Chapter on MTV

Catelynn cried, too.

'We were just two little kids that in the beginning were very much trauma-bonded,' Catelynn said.

Catelynn told him that he was worthy of her love.

'Yeah we made some dumb decisions that led to an unplanned pregnancy, but I truly feel like if it wasn't for that child, we probably wouldn't be as far as where we are today,' Catelynn said.

Later, Tyler and Catelynn had a picnic and he told her he was thankful she was the mother of his daughters Novalee, Vaeda and Rya.

'I'm thankful you are the dad of my kids because there are a lot of losers out there,' Catelynn said.

The episode opened with Catelynn calling Tyler at a hotel in California and asking about his therapy session. He said it had been hard.

Tyler met with Dr. Mike Dow, a psychotherapist, for his ketamine assisted therapy session. He put on a blindfold and then a nurse injected his arm with the drug while Dr. Mike sat by his side. He used the legal psychedelic treatments to go back and work through his childhood trauma.

Offered support: Catelynn supported her husband as he worked through childhood trauma

Felt guilty: 'We didn't get to parent her,' Tyler said crying. 'I just felt very guilty that behavior resulted with Carly and you had to go through so much s***'

Psychedelic session: Tyler met with Dr. Mike Dow, a psychotherapist, for his ketamine assisted therapy session

During the session, Tyler went back to when he was four and was hiding in a trailer from bounty hunters who were looking for his dad.

'I'm sorry,' Tyler said to his younger self. 'Trust me.'

Tyler started crying and said he was so grateful for his wife Catelynn.

'She's saved me in so many ways,' Tyler said. 'She's giving me everything and she's shown me more love than I ever thought I ever deserved.'

Tyler took off the eye mask and wiped away his tears.

Cheyenne Floyd, 30, was trying to sleep when her child Ryder, six, woke up. She said that Ryder's father Cory Wharton, 32, had been away for three weeks filming MTV's show The Challenge and that it had been tough on Ryder. Taylor Selfridge, Cory's girlfriend, called and talked about how her kids had also been missing their father Cory.

Hiding out: During the session, Tyler went back to when he was four and was hiding in a trailer from bounty hunters who were looking for his dad

Tough time: Cheyenne Floyd, 30, said that Ryder's father Cory Wharton, 32, had been away for three weeks filming MTV's show The Challenge

Cheyenne met her friends Remi and Shannon for lunch. She told them that Cory left on Ryder's birthday to do The Challenge.

'I think she's a little upset with him,' Cheyenne said.

Cheyenne said Ryder was confused because Taylor left with her two-daughters and went back to Seattle. Cheyenne said she felt guilty and didn't want to tell Cory what was going on because she wanted him to focus on the competition.

Cory called to check in and Ryder told him that she was sad that he left on her birthday. Cory said he cried, too.

'I'll be home before you know it,' Cory said.

Cheyenne said in a confessional that it was hard with Cory being away filming.

'I hate that Ryder is so sad because her dad is gone,' Cheyenne said.

Jade Cline, 26, hugged her fiance Sean Austin before leaving to go visit her parents who were both in rehab. She planned to fly to Texas to visit her mother first and then travel to Arizona to visit her father. Her aunt Kim, her mother's sister, came with her for moral support.

Rehabbing parents: Jade Cline, 26, hugged her fiance Sean Austin before leaving to go visit her parents who were both in rehab

Jade had a lot of anxiety before attending a private therapy session with her mother at the rehab.

'Breathe,' Kim said.

Jade hugged her mother Christy. A counselor talked about the 12-steps that her mother would have to go through. Christy said she had undergone intensive therapy for her sexual assaults and other childhood trauma and learned that she had done drugs and gambling to try to make herself feel good.

After the visit, Jade told Kim that she told her mother some harsh things about her behavior. She said her mother kept saying that it was the addiction.

'It also was you, too, there has to be accountability,' Jade said. 'I don't like it to sound like a cop out.'

Jade said she told her mother that it would take them a long time to mend their relationship.

Group therapy: Christy said she had undergone intensive therapy for her sexual assaults and other childhood trauma and learned that she had done drugs and gambling to try to make herself feel good

'Your parents you hold to a higher standard,' Jade said. ' Sean is, at the end of the day, just some guy. I told her out of anything in life you will go in the books of being my biggest heartbreak, ever.'

Jade visited her mother one more time before she left Texas.

'When the cameras were there she seemed good but the moment we had a private conversation, she was like I want to go home and do fun stuff with you guys,' Jade said in a confessional. 'Then she looked at me and my aunt and was like we could do bingo together. And I was like, what the f***? You had a gambling problem, a drug problem. Why would you even consider doing bingo when the type of bingo you play is gambling for money.'

Jade said that was a huge red flag and she would tell her mother's counselor about it.

Briana DeJesus, 29, called Devoin Austin, Nova's father and asked if he would take both her daughters to a 'Daddy-Daughter' dance because Luis Hernadez hadn't seen his daughter Stella, five, in a while.

Daughters dance: Briana DeJesus, 29, called Devoin Austin, Nova's father and asked if he would take both her daughters to a 'Daddy-Daughter' dance because Luis Hernadez hadn't seen his daughter Stella, five, in a while

'I know Devoin isn't perfect but he really has stepped up,' Briana said.

'Luis hasn't seen Stella since September and we are almost in June,' Briana told her sister Brittany.

Briana said Stella started crying and said she wanted her father to take her to the dance instead. Briana said she didn't want to reach out to Luis, but Stella was so upset.

'You have to suck it up,' Brittany said.

Briana called Luis and told him about the daddy-daughter dance and that Stella asked for him to be there.

'Would you be able to go?' Briana said.

'Of course I'll be there,' Luis said. 'I'll show up.'

Briana told her sister she didn't think it was her responsibility to get Luis to be a part of his daughter's life.

Later on the day of the dance, Briana said her kids were super excited and Luis texted her that he was on his way. Luis came to the house and Luis and Devoin took pictures of the girls who were all dressed up for the dance.

'Luis looked miserable and Stella looked uncomfortable,' Briana said after they left.

'They honestly don't need a piece of s*** person in their life.' Briana said.

Taking pictures: 'Luis looked miserable and Stella looked uncomfortable,' Briana said after they left

A short time after they left, Nova called and said Stella was crying and wanted to go home. Briana drove to get her.

'Part of me was hoping the whole dance would be fine but another part of me was I feel like somethings going to happen,' Briana said in a confessional. 'It's just a f***ed up situation. I can't keep allowing Luis to come in and out. And hopefully one day I'm able to find somebody to be a father figure to my girls because they need that, I don't know. We will see.'

Leah Messer, 31, was cleaning her West Virginia house when she stumbled across a photo album of Jaylan Mobley's family pictures. They split up last year after a two-month engagement. Leah, who is the mother of twins Aliannah Hope and Aleeah Grace, 13, as well as Adalynn Faith, 10, decided to reach out to Jaylan, 26, to give the album back.

'Jaylan and I broke up around six months ago and I've come a long way,' Leah said.

Moving forweard: Leah Messer called her ex-fiancee and gave him family pictures that she found

Leah met him and gave him the albums and they both said they were doing well. Leah told her friend Nicole that met him, but that she doesn't look at him the same way.

'You've got to keep moving,' Leah said.

'Sometimes things don't work out but it's okay,' Leah said in a confessional. 'I've got to go through this pain, healing, grief. I know that there's a rainbow at the end.'

Teen Mom: The Next Chapter will return next week on MTV.
With the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike in the midst of its fourth month, yet another talk show has decided to return without its writers.

Bill Maher announced on social media Wednesday that his HBO series Real Time with Bill Maher will return without its writing staff.

The 67-year-old is the first late-night talk show host to return after the WGA strike started on May 2, with his show's new season starting Friday, September 22 at 10 PM.

Broadcast network late-night hosts Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, Steven Colbert and Seth Meyers joined by another HBO host, John Oliver, for a podcast called Strike Force 5, with the proceeds from the podcast benefiting each show's staffs and striking writers.

The announcement comes just days after Drew Barrymore announced the return of her daytime series without writers, with The Talk also returning.

Bill returns: With the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike in the midst of its fourth month, yet another talk show has decided to return without its writers

Announced: Bill Maher announced on social media Wednesday that his HBO series Real Time with Bill Maher will return without its writing staff.

'Real Time is coming back, unfortunately, sans writers or writing. It has been five months, and it is time to bring people back to work,' Maher began.

'The writers have important issues that I sympathize with, and hope they are addressed to their satisfaction, but they are not the only people with issues, problems, and concerns,' he said.

'Despite some assistance from me, much of the staff is struggling mightily. We all were hopeful this would come to an end after Labor Day, but that day has come and gone, and there still seems to be nothing happening,' Maher said.

He added, 'I love my writers, I am one of them, but Im not prepared to lose an entire year and see so many below-the-line people suffer so much.'

'I will honor the spirit of the strike by not doing a monologue, desk piece, New Rules or editorial, the written pieces that I am so proud of on Real Time,' he admitted, which would not put him in violation of the strike rules.

'And Ill say it upfront to the audience: the show I will be doing without my writers will not be as good as our normal show, full stop,' Maher contended.

'But the heart of the show is an off-the-cuff panel discussion that aims to cut through the bullshit and predictable partisanship, and that will continue. The show will not disappoint,' Maher concluded.

While he seemed to support the writers in his lengthy statement, last week he called some of the writers' demands, 'kooky' on his Club Random podcast.

Coming back: 'Real Time is coming back, unfortunately, sans writers or writing. It has been five months, and it is time to bring people back to work,' Maher began

Issues: 'The writers have important issues that I sympathize with, and hope they are addressed to their satisfaction, but they are not the only people with issues, problems, and concerns,' he said

'What I find objectionable about the philosophy of the strike [is] it seems to be, they have really morphed a long way from 2007s strike, where they kind of believe that youre owed a living as a writer, and youre not,' Maher said.

'This is show business. This is the make-or-miss league,' Maher continued, though he added, 'I'm not saying they don't have their points,' agreeing with their stance on streaming platforms reporting viewership data.

He added, 'I feel for my writers. I love my writers. Im one of my writers. But theres a big other side to it.'

'And a lot of people are being hurt besides them  a lot of people who dont make as much money as them in this bipartisan world we have where youre just in one camp or the other, theres no in between,' he said.
Salma Hayek was a vision at the premiere of El Sabor de la Navidad at the Toronto International Film Festival on Wednesday.

The actress, who recently turned 57, poured her curves into a fitted white gown that draped around her waist and ended in an elegant train.

She accessorized with a textured jade green and white clutch along with some jewelry and a hot red lip.

Salma went for a sleek look when it came to her hair, and rocked a head full of ultra straight tresses with a chic center part.

She opted for a smoky eye and a touch of radiant blush.

Va va voom! Salma Hayek was a vision at the premiere of El Sabor de la Navidad at the Toronto International Film Festival on Wednesday

Salma's appearance at TIFF occurred amidst a historic double strike in Hollywood, with both the Writer's Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA unions embroiled in protests against the studios.

Salma, who does not appear in the film but serves as producer, wore a SAG-AFTRA shirt at the film festival, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

She informed the outlet she had received permission from the union to appear at TIFF for the film.

The Christmas film follows a Mexican family celebrating the holiday in the country's capital.

'Misunderstandings in families have to do with generational differences,' she told THR.

'Its not only Spanish (language), but a Mexican film. And so were very grateful that we were able to bring it to Toronto and that the union was supportive of it, otherwise I would not have come, without permission.'

The film contains three storylines, and one of them involves the family's estranged daughter returning home with the hopes of repairing her relationship with her relatives.

Speaking of the plotline, she recently told Variety: 'Sometimes when its a family member, you have to accept first, and then understand. But its important to go towards that second step, so youre not tolerating a loved one, but totally loving someone.'

The film's writer Jose Tamez added: 'I was trying to present three stories about love.

Wowza! The actress, who recently turned 57 , poured her curves into a fitted white gown that draped around her waist and ended in an elegant train

Looking divine! All eyes were on Hayek as she made her red carpet entrance

Gorgeous! She accessorized with a textured jade green and white clutch along with some jewelry and a hot red lip

High spirits! Salma waved to someone as she made her way through the red carpet

Christmas spirit: The film follows a Mexican family celebrating Christmas in the country's capital

World premiere: El Sabor De La Navidad was directed by Alejandro Lozano and stars Mariano Trevino, Pamela Almanza, and Andres Almeida

'Being a member of the gay community, that was story that resonated with me. And I thought it could resonate with everyone, regardless of your situation.'

El Sabor De La Navidad was directed by Alejandro Lozano and stars Mariano Trevino, Pamela Almanza, and Andres Almeida.

Salma's appearance comes not long after she celebrated her 57th birthday with breathtaking beach snaps.

In the photos, the star shared numerous snaps of her taking a dip in the crystal-clear ocean and her frolicking on the shore.

'Im so happy to be alive and so profoundly grateful for all the blessings!!!!' she captioned her sexy slideshow. 'My beloved family, my precious friends, my health, my work that keeps me going, my empowering team, my relationship with animals & nature, and the love of all my loyal fans.'

She concluded: 'Happy 57th birthday to me!!!'

In the images, the mom-of-one's incredible curves were on full display as she smiled on her paradise getaway in an unknown location.
The excitement and tension continues to build for season 18 of America's Got Talent, as fans learn which two acts from Tuesday's show made it through to the Finals.

Ahead of Wednesday's result show the judges were greeted by admiring fans looking to get a glimpse of their favorite panelists and celebrities.

As usual, Heidi Klum turned her arrival to the AGT studios into a catwalk of sorts, striking poses while strutting her way to the entrance doors in an all-orange ensemble that resembled a high-end tracksuit

Consisting of baggy pants, matching top, and sneakers, the statuesque beauty stopped to say hello to all people gathered outside and sign a few autographs.

The longtime supermodel would accessorize with orange-frame sunglasses, which was a perfect match to her outfit, and have her lightened locks styled long, straight and flowing down past her shoulders with a center part.

Color-coordinated: Heidi Klum, 50, turned heads when she arrived to the America's Got Talent studios in Pasadena, California on Wednesday in a striking orange ensemble

Some security guards and police officers were also at the scene to help the celebrity panelists and guests make it inside the studios without any issues.

While greeting fans Klum, 50, would also take a few selfie photos, all while other fans shot photos and videos of her grand arrival.

Eventually, she said her goodbyes and made the short walk to the entrance doors to get ready for show time.

Simon Cowell was all smiles when he arrived to shoot the America's Got Talent results show.

He kept it casual in the fashion department for his ride to Pasadena in faded blue jeans, a fitted off-white t-shirt and black boots.

The AGT and Britain's Got Talent judge, 63, also carried a small bag with some of his essentials over his shoulder.

Like Klum, the British television personality and record executive took time out to pose for photos with fans before heading inside.

The host of the AGT festivities, Terry Crews, was the picture of summer cool dressed in white pants, which were rolled up above his ankles, and a black dress shirt over a matching t-shirt.

Fan greeting: A big crowd of fans greeted the AGT judge, who was more than happy to stop and chat and pose for selfies for a few moments

Fan friendly: The longtime supermodel signed autographs and posed for photos

Colorful: The former catwalk queen was color-coordinated from head to toe

On the go: After a few moments with the fans, Klum would make her way into the AGT studios

Glowing arrival: Judge Simon Cowell, 63, looked elated to be greeted by fans outside the AGT studios when he arrived ahead of Wednesday's results show

Host with the most: AGT host Terry Crews, 55, looked summer ready in his black and white outfit before the show

Shout out: Klum revealed on Instagram that her outfit was entirely from Lala Berlin

Playtime: The AGT judge got playful before showtime and posed for a photo with a mustache

Promo mode: Before show time Klum decided to go into promotional mode and strike a few poses in a clip showing her in her on-air outfit

Working it: Klum mimicked the catwalk and made her way towards the camera

Socializing: The mother of four leaped towards the camera in her shoulder-less number

Crew, 55, also wore a pair of black sneakers and dark sunglasses to help with the glaring sun on another warm and sunny Southern California day.

Klum would later take to her Instagram page and sit and pose in her striking orange ensemble where she revealed she was dressed 'Head to toe in @lalaberlin.'

She also showed off her playful side by sharing a very quick video of herself mugging for the camera wearing a fake mustache.

The German-born superstar would later change into her show time outfit, a shoulder-less floral dress consisting of an assortment of colors, and then give her 11.4 million Instagram fans and followers a glimpse of her in the fashionable number.

.
She's one of the hardest working influencers in the business.

But ex-WAG Phoebe Burgess, 33, took a break for a relaxing afternoon on Wednesday as she stepped out in Sydney.

The blonde beauty looked stylish in a long black dress which featured sleeves and a high slit as she visited a salon in Paddington.

She completed her ensemble with a pair of black boots, a black bag and also held a leather jacket.

The mother-of-two left her natural beauty shine with a subtle makeup palette as she left the salon.

Phoebe Burgess kept it glam in a figure-hugging black dress as she stepped out in Sydney while her ex-husband Sam awaits the birth of his baby with fiancee Lucy Graham

The sighting comes as Phoebe's ex-husband Sam is preparing to welcome his first child with his fiancee Lucy Graham.

Sam was previously married to Phoebe, with whom he shares two children: daughter Poppy, six, and son Billy, four.

They were married for four years before splitting in 2019.

The former Rabbitohs player proposed to Lucy in June, just nine months after they went public with their relationship.

Sam previously revealed he was extremely nervous when he asked the Leeds hairdresser to marry him.

The blonde beauty looked stylish in a long black dress which featured sleeves and a high slit as she visited a salon in Paddington

She completed her ensemble with a pair of black boots, a black bag and also held a leather jacket

Appearing on Channel 7's Sunrise shortly after arriving back in Australia, Sam was asked how he proposed to Lucy.

While he kept the details private, he said: 'I was very nervous actually, I dropped the ball so to speak, it was a great day, a great time away, we are both very happy.'

Lucy recently made the decision to move Down Under from the UK permanently and it's believed her pregnancy was the reason.

It was recently revealed that Lucy used to be a member of British girl group The Ultra Girls, who were featured heavily on The X Factor UK in 2009.
Justin Bieber and his wife Hailey celebrated their fifth wedding anniversary on Wednesday.

The couple tied the knot at a New York City courthouse on September 13, 2018 just months after Justin's finite split from his on/off girlfriend Selena Gomez.

To honor the milestone, the Baby hitmaker, 29, penned a heartfelt Instagram tribute to his 'beloved' Hailey and shared photos from their Tokyo getaway.

'To the most precious, my beloved,' captioned Justin. '5 years. You have captivated my heart. I know from the depths of my soul down to my bones that this journey with you will only exceed our wildest expectations.

'So let's keep dreaming big baby. Cheers to forever and ever. I love you with every fiber of my being.'

Anniversary: Justin Bieber and his wife Hailey celebrated their fifth wedding anniversary on Wednesday

Heartfelt: To honor the milestone, the Baby hitmaker, 29, penned a heartfelt tribute to his 'beloved' Hailey

The couple tied the knot at a New York City courthouse on September 13, 2018 just months after Justin's finite split from his on/off girlfriend Selena Gomez

He closed the caption with: 'HAPPY 5TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!!'

In her own tribute post, Hailey included photos from their romantic trip together and the caption: '5  [HEART] I love you.'

On their special day, the couple had dinner-for-two at the upscale eatery Panevia  which Justin appears to have rented out for the night.

They dined on fresh sushi and received a custom cake with white frosting, red roses and a plate with their faces draw with chocolate.

Hailey beamed beside her spouse rocking a chick black leather trench coat and a satin slip dress.

Justin sported a backwards red cap, an oversized blue button-up shirt and jeans for the occasion.

On another evening out, the married duo were dressed to the nines in stylish threads as they strolled the streets of Tokyo hand-in-hand.

Hailey shared more photos to her Instagram Story and gave Justin another 'happy anniversary' shout-out.

After saying their 'I Dos' at an NYC courthouse, Justin and Hailey hosted an elaborate ceremony the following year at Montage Palmetto Bluff hotel in South Carolina.

He also shared photos from their anniversary dinner on Instagram

He told Hailey that she's 'captivated my heart' for five years

'I know from the depths of my soul down to my bones that this journey with you will only exceed our wildest expectations,' Justin wrote

'I love you with every fiber of my being,' the Grammy Award-winner gushed

They were first introduced in 2009 by Hailey's father Stephen Baldwin at the premiere of Justin's documentary Never Say Never.

The pair then had a brief fling in 2016 amid his on/off decade-long romance with Selena Gomez.

When he and the Disney Channel alum, 30, finally called it quits for good in May 2018, Justin fell into Hailey's arms and they've been attached at the hip since.

The pair have spoken candidly about their relationship over the years  including their 'really tough' first year of marriage.

Speaking to GQ in 2021, Justin revealed that his and Hailey's initial difficulties stemmed from 'trauma' and 'just lack of trust.'

'There was all these things that you don't want to admit to the person that you're with, because it's scary. You don't want to scare them off by saying, 'I'm scared,'' he explained.

The Sorry hitmaker admitted during the first year of marriage he was 'on eggshells' but now he's never felt more stable.

The couple have a mutual desire for children but Hailey recently expressed concerns about raising a family in the spotlight.

'I want kids so bad but I get scared. It's enough that people say things about my husband or my friends,' she told the Sunday Times in May.

'I can't imagine having to confront people saying things about a child. We can only do the best we can to raise them. As long as they feel loved and safe.'

Earlier this year, the Rhode skincare founder dished that she and Justin would like to try for a family 'in the next couple of years.'

Love story: They were first introduced in 2009 by Hailey's father Stephen Baldwin at the premiere of Justin's documentary Never Say Never

From fling to fairytale: The pair then had a brief fling in 2016 amid his on/off decade-long romance with Selena Gomez

Whirlwind: When he and the Disney Channel alum, 30, finally called it quits for good in May 2018, Justin fell into Hailey's arms and they've been attached at the hip since

The couple enjoyed a romantic dinner at a Tokyo eatery

They enjoyed fresh sushi and custom confections

'You don't know how long that process [of getting pregnant] is every going to take. Definitely no kids this year, that would be a little hectic, I think,' Hailey told WSJ.

'There's this thing that happens for women when you get married. Everybody assumes it's: 'First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes the baby,' the wife of Justin Bieber explained.

'Well, what about the things I want to accomplish in my business? I think I had it ingrained in my head that I was going to want to have kids right away and I was going to have kids super, super young. Then I turned 25 and I'm like, I'm still super, super young!'

Hailey stressed that, behind closed doors, she and Justin are 'two really normal people that just have not-normal lifestyles and careers.'

Not only is she in Japan celebrating her and Justin's anniversary but Hailey was also there to attend the opening of Tiffany & Co's Tokyo store.

She hit the red carpet on Monday night in a glamorous black gown along with actresses Florence Pugh and Anya Taylor-Joy.
Lisa Curry shared a heartbreaking tribute to her late daughter Jaimi on Thursday, to mark the three year anniversary of her death.

The retired Olympic swimmer, 61, posted a gallery of precious photos to Instagram to celebrate her late daughter's life.

One photo shows a beautiful painting of Jaimi surrounded by flowers and another captures seashells at the beach arranged in a love heart with a J in the middle.

'Three years ago, our beautiful daughter Jaimi took her last breath. We all love you and miss you everyday. Feels like yesterday,' she wrote next to the photos.

'It's been a s**t and sad week, where I've needed lots of hugs and have been constantly wiping my tears away. I tell myself to breathe, it's a bad day, not a bad life.'

Lisa Curry shared a heartbreaking tribute to her late daughter Jaimi (pictured together) on Thursday, to mark the three-year anniversary of her death

'I need to change that talk to be more positive and give myself permission that it's ok to move forward. Moving on doesnt mean letting go. I will never let her go.

'Am I ok? Yes, maybe, sometimes, no Depends on the day,' she added.

Many of Lisa's celebrity friends were quick to offer her their words of support during this difficult time.

The retired Olympic swimmer, 61, posted a gallery of precious photos to Instagram to celebrate her late daughter's life. One snap captures seashells at the beach arranged in a love heart with a J in the middle

'Thinking of you Lis,' wrote former Miss Universe Australia Tegan Martin while Natalie Bassingthwaighte added: 'Love you honey'.

Jaimi, who Lisa shared with ex-husband Grant Kenny, passed away in September 2020 after a long battle with alcoholism and an eating disorder.

Lisa and Grant Kenny wed in 1984, separated in 2009 and during their marriage welcomed three children together: son Jett, 29, and daughters Morgan, 32, and Jaimi.

Lisa also shared a beautiful painting of her daughter surrounded by flowers

'Three years ago, our beautiful daughter Jaimi took her last breath. We all love you and miss you everyday. Feels like yesterday,' Lisa wrote next to the photos

Jaimi died at Sunshine Coast University Hospital on September 14, 2020, surrounded by her family.

Announcing the sad news on social media, Lisa wrote: 'Our beautiful daughter Jaimi has lost her battle with a long-term illness and passed away peacefully in hospital yesterday morning with her loving family by her side.'

For confidential support in Australia, call Lifeline on 13 11 14
EXCLUSIVE

A star of The Bachelorette who plunged to his death by driving his car off a cliff had been hit with three restraining orders in the past three years - two on behalf of his girlfriend and one to protect a man.

Charlie Newling was hit with apprehended domestic violence orders by NSW Police on behalf of his partner Krystal Taylor, 32, in March 2021 and July 2022, Daily Mail Australia can reveal.

The reality show star, 36, was initially given orders barring him from following, assaulting, threatening, stalking, harassing or intimidating the young woman, or recklessly destroying her property.

On the second instance, he was ordered not to approach or be near her for at least 12 hours after drinking alcohol or taking illicit drugs.

Police also applied for an AVO against Newling, who was also a builder, on behalf of an unknown man on the NSW north coast in January 2021.

Newling, who appeared on Ali Oetjen's season of the Channel Ten show in 2018, died when his car went over a cliff at Dover Heights, in Sydney's eastern suburbs, at 11pm last Friday night.

Charlie Newling, 36, welcomed his second child just eight weeks ago with his partner Krystal Taylor

Krystal Taylor (pictured) welcomed the couple's first child in June

Mr Newling and his girlfriend, who were living in Sydney's east, had welcomed his second child just eight weeks ago.

Newling and Ms Taylor are understood to have met in 2020 while briefly residing in a share house in Yamba in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales.

A friend confirmed Ms Taylor was previously engaged to another man before starting a relationship with Newling and moving to Bondi together.

'They moved in together but he was out of control with drinking and prescription drugs,' the insider said.

The restraining orders came about the same period in his life as a number of troubling public incidents.

Following his stint on TV, Newling made headlines after footage circulated of him being forcibly removed by security guards from Double Bay's Golden Sheaf Hotel.

Newling, who had appeared on The Project earlier that night, said he had been drinking and was celebrating his time on the show with friends when a scuffle broke out with bouncers about 10.50pm.

After the incident, it emerged he had a then eight-year-old son from a previous relationship that he had not disclosed on the program.

New mum Krystal Taylor (pictured) is understood to have met Newling in Yamba

The father-of-two found fame on Ali Oetjen's season of The Bachelorette in 2018 and quickly became a frontrunner

Newling was celebrating his time on the show with friends when a scuffle broke out with bouncers about 10.50pm at a Double Bay pub in 2018

In September 2022, he was convicted of threatening to kill his step-father and sentenced to 13 months in jail.

He threatened to torture his stepfather in a series of 37 text messages to his mother over a three hour period.

'You are still controlled by that flog of a husband,' one message to his mother said. 'I'm going to kill him one day in front of you before I go.

'You have no idea what I'm capable of but just know it's not going to be pretty,' before going on to suggest he would urinate on him.

Magistrate Ross Hudson heard Newling had suffered significant childhood trauma, including being a teenager when he had to begin caring for his biological father after an accident had left him a paraplegic.

His father died in 2018 from an overdose of pain medication.

The court also heard Newling, who worked as a builder after his brush with fame on The Bachelorette, had struggled with alcohol abuse.

At the time of the threats, he was on a court order following a mid-range drink driving offence in 2021.

A local resident who was asleep during the time of Newling's fatal incident told Daily Mail Australia they were woken by blue and red flashing lights

Police and ambulance workers arrived at Raleigh Reserve after being contacted by locals who found his car on fire at the bottom of a 70-metre cliff (pictured)

A mourner has left a rose at the scene of the crash site on Thursday

Friends and family have witnessed Newling's declining mental health and alarming alcohol abuse in recent years, including stints in rehabilitation centres and attempted self-harm.

Police and ambulance workers rushed to Raleigh Reserve, Dover Heights on Friday after being contacted by locals who found his car on fire at the bottom of the 70-metre cliff.

'They worked till the early hours and had two men winch down from a helicopter to retrieve him,' one local said.

Newling will be laid to rest at a later date.

For confidential crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14
OnlyFans star Lucy Banks revealed on Wednesday that she is constantly 'mum-shamed' for her work on the X-rated platform.

The adult entertainer and mother-of-two, 31, who brings in between $35,000 and $60,000 every month, said people call her a 'bad parent' for her raunchy work.

Lucy made the heartbreaking admission on the Xposed podcast as she spoke with former high-profile Australian escort Samantha X, whose real name is Amanda Goff.

'Every single parent says I would die for my kids, I would do anything for my kids, but as soon as I do OnlyFans or someone does sex work  all of a sudden it's "you're a bad parent,"' she said.

'No, we're not bad parents we're doing whatever it takes to provide for our kids. I've been able to stay at home, I'm at school events and I don't have to have a nanny or anything like that.'

OnlyFans star Lucy Banks, 31, (pictured) revealed on Wednesday she is constantly 'mum-shamed' for her work on the X-rated platform

The adult entertainer and mother-of-two who brings in between $35,000 and $60,000 every month, said people call her a 'bad parent' for her raunchy work

Lucy went on to say she can be 'the best mum' and still do porn without her X-rated work affecting her children.

'When I talk about my work with people quite often they'll come back and say, "But you're a mum," but so what? How do you think I became a mum?'

It comes just a few months after the self-described 'hot mum' copped backlash online for claiming she's the 'favourite' among dads at the school gates.

Lucy said the cheeky comment was intended as a light-hearted joke, but instead she was ruthlessly ridiculed by strangers.

'Guess why I'm the favourite mum amongst the school dads. No seriously guess,' she wrote alongside a winking emoji at the time.

Lucy went on to say she can be 'the best mum' and still do porn without her X-rated work affecting her children

'Every single parent says I would die for my kids, I would do anything for my kids, but as soon as I do OnlyFans or someone does sex work  all of a sudden it's "you're a bad parent,"' she said

The single mum from Perth recorded herself sitting in the car outside the school gates and shared the clip online where it had 1.7million views.

'Because your humble?' one asked, while another wrote: 'Because you love yourself?'

'No ring thats why,' a third added. Another said: 'You reverse into parking spots.'

Others were far more ruthless with one person writing: 'I cant think of anything sorry.'

In 2019, Lucy decided to ditch her 9-5 banking job and start her OnlyFans career. Today she brings in between $35,000 and $60,000 every month.
Scarlett Johansson looked effortlessly radiant at the launch of her skincare brand The Outset at Nordstrom in New York City on Wednesday.

The Ghost World actress, 38, co-founded the line with entrepreneur Kate Foster last year with the goal of creating 'clean, gentle and effective' products.

Scarlett strolled up to the event in a chic gray tweed Mango suit styled with a matching vest and a white undershirt.

She slipped her feet into a pair of black mules and slicked her hair back into a bun.

The Marvel star accessorized with green hoops and gold chain necklaces.

Radiant: Scarlett Johansson looked effortlessly radiant at the launch of her skincare brand The Outset at Nordstrom in New York City on Wednesday

Founders: The Ghost World actress, 38, co-founded the line with entrepreneur Kate Foster last year with the goal of creating 'clean, gentle and effective' products

Letting her natural beauty shine, Scarlett opted for a minimal makeup look that consisted of mascara and a youthful peach flush.

She posed for photos in front of a giant The Outset x Nordstrom backdrop before commencing the exclusive customer masterclass.

Scarlett spoke in front of lucky fans about what The Outset has to offer with the help of her co-founder Kate.

After the event, the Asteroid City star was spotted exiting the building with her security team.

Wednesday was a huge day for the brand as fans will now be able to purchase The Outset in-store at Nordstrom stores across the United States as well as online.

In a clip shared to The Outset's Instagram page, Scarlett and Kate are seen wandering around Nordstrom NYC before coming across their brand's display.

The ladies could hardly contain their joy as they checked out the fully-stocked end cap.

The Outset is vegan and cruelty free with six products, the latest ones being their Exfoliating Caffeine Micro Polish.

It also features the restorative niacinamide night cream, smoothing vitamin C eye + expression lines cream, gentle micellar antioxidant cleanser, firming vegan collagen prep serum and the nourishing squalane daily moisturizer.

Last September, Scarlett opened up about the skin issues she dealt with in her twenties and how it inspired her to enter the beauty space.

'I still look back at photos of me on the red carpet in my twenties, and I'm like, "I remember that pimple,"' she told PEOPLE.

Scarlett revealed that when she would get stressed out while filming a movie because of her acne outbreaks.

'It was terrible. I would cover my acne before I even got to the makeup chair just so that I didn't feel so exposed. It really does affect how you feel about yourself and you just want to scrub it away.'

Chic: Scarlett strolled up to the event in a chic gray tweed Mango suit styled with a matching vest and a white undershirt

Sleek: She slipped her feet into a pair of black mules and slicked her hair back into a bun

Scarlett spoke in front of lucky fans about what The Outset has to offer with the help of her co-founder Kate

Jovial: Scarlett looked jovial as she let out a laugh during the presentation

Fans galore! Scarlett's devout fanbase filled seats in the room

On the go: After the event, the Asteroid City star was spotted exiting the building with her security team

In a clip shared to The Outset's Instagram page, Scarlett and Kate are seen wandering around Nordstrom NYC before coming across their brand's display

Stocked: The ladies could hardly contain their joy as they checked out the fully-stocked end cap

Adding that at the time, the star tried 'every kind of acne peel and mask and resurfacing polish' before she realized' that those particular products were too harsh for her skin.

She ended up starting a routine of just cleansing, toning and moisturizing.

With such a high volume of celebrities  from Rihanna to Selena Gomez  entering the beauty space over the last decade, Scarlett was asked to share what makes her brand standout from the rest.

'I always anticipate that there's going to be some level of skepticism because I've experienced it in my movie life too,' the Black Widow star explained.

'But I feel confident about our products - they're just so reliable. The transparency of what's in the line and what's it doing sets it apart.'

Scarlett has an estimated $165million net worth and has starred in some of the biggest blockbuster films over the span of her decades-long career.

She shares two children with her husband and SNL star, Colin Jost, 41.

Scarlett was married two prior times before tying the knot with Colin in 2020.

The Don Jon actress was with Romain Dauriac from 2014 to 2017 and Ryan Reynolds from 2008 to 2011.
Howie asked Sofia if she saw anyone in the audience that she was interested in after recently splitting from husband Joe and she refused to answer

The 51-year-old judge announced in July that she and husband Joe Manganiello, 46, had split after seven years of marriage and Howie, 67, has been ribbing her

Sofia, 51, took part in a lie detector skit, but stopped playing along after Howie, 67, asked if there was anyone in the audience she was interested in

Sofia Vergara refused to continue playing along with a lie detector skit after Howie Mandel asked another awkward question about her being single on Wednesday's episode of America's Got Talent on NBC.

The 51-year-old judge announced in July that she and husband Joe Manganiello, 46, had split after seven years of marriage and Howie, 67, has been ribbing her since.

Show host Terry Crews, 55, during the results episode unveiled a Sonic 'Tot' seat that he said was made entirely of tater tots. He asked if there was a judge who would volunteer to sit on it and Simon Cowell, 63, pointed to Sofia.

Sofia, 51, walked to the stage and sat in the seat and was then hooked up to a lie detector.

'What could they possibly ask me that they need a lie detector?' Sofia said.

Awkward question: Sofia Vergara refused to continue playing along with a lie detector skit after Howie Mandel asked another awkward question about her being single on Wednesday's episode of America's Got Talent on NBC

Sofia showed her funny side while answering silly questions from Howie, Simon Cowell and Heidi Klum.

Howie then asked Sofia if she saw anyone in the audience that she was interested in after recently splitting from husband Joe.

While men in the audience tried to gain her attention, Sofia ripped off the lie detector armband and refused to answer any more questions.

'That's it. That's it,' Sofia said as she got up out of the chair.

'Okay, I think she's done,' Terry said.

Howie has been ribbing Sofia since she announced her split in July by making jokes about her new relationship status.

The comedian has since told DailyMail.com that the brunette bombshell has 'got a good sense of humor about it' and is 'always the first one to laugh.'

Howie added: 'I would not do it if I felt in any way that I would be offending her even in the slightest.'

Recent split: Howie then asked Sofia if she saw anyone in the audience that she was interested in after recently splitting from husband Joe Manganiello, 46, after seven years of marriage

Tot seat: Terry Crews unveiled a Sonic 'Tot' seat that he said was made entirely of tater tots and asked if there was a judge who would volunteer to sit on it and Simon Cowell pointed to Sofia

Lie detector: Sofia walked to the stage and sat in the seat and was then hooked up to a lie detector

She's done: 'That's it. That's it,' Sofia said as she got up out of the chair after Howie asked if she liked anyone in the audience

Speaking about how she has taken jokes about her love life in her stride, he revealed: 'She's just a funny person... She's probably - all kidding aside - one of the smartest, funniest people that I have met.

'Everybody's got a really good sense of humor on this, but she knows what she's doing, and she's got a really good sense of humor.'

He continued: 'And even though I'm getting in trouble a little bit online for digging at her circumstances right now, she's always the first one to laugh.

'And I know her really well and she isn't offended, and I'm not defending myself. I'm just telling you who she is.'

Howie came under fire for the joke he made last month during the first live performance episode of America's Got Talent.

The split was not discussed in detail during the episode, but Howie had been discussing a performance by 12-year-old magician and ventriloquist Brynn Cummings - where she tried to find a new mate for her rabbit puppet in the performance - when he cracked a joke.

'If I have one word of advice, if you're looking for eligible bachelors, you should have talked to Sofia because she's in the market right now,' Howie quipped, referring to her recent split.

There was a brief pause as Sofia looked down at the table before she appeared to brush it off - raising her arms and screaming, 'Yes,' with a laugh before host Terry said: 'No we're not doing that here.'

America's Got Talent will return next Tuesday on NBC.
January 2021: The beginning of the end

Gruffudd filed for divorce in March 2021, shortly after Evans claimed on social media that her husband of 14 years was walking out on her and their two daughters.

October 2021: Ioan goes public with his new love

After Evans' explosive announcement about her split all seemed to quieten down until October 2021 when she took to Twitter to claim to her 29,000 followers that her estranged husband had been cheating on her for three years with a much younger woman.

Evans implied that her ex had gaslighted her for years, betraying her and their two daughters (but did not offer any evidence to support her accusation).

February 2022: Ioan files for a restraining order against Alice

After months of pointed tweets and social media posts made by Evans, Gruffudd responded by filing for a restraining order, submitting 113 pages of unhinged texts and emails that had not previously been made public.

In his court filing, Gruffudd claimed he told Evans that he wanted out of the marriage in August 2020 and that since then, she had harassed him with hundreds of unanswered text messages, abusive emails and social media posts - many of which he included in the filing.

He claimed she verbally threatened to tell the media he had abused her 'do what Amber Heard did to Johnny Depp'.

Inside the most bitter divorce in Hollywood: A look back at Alice Evans and Ioan Gruffudd's shock slanging match (pictured in 2004)

June 2022: Alice begs fans for money to pay for a divorce lawyer

As their divorce proceedings entered its 15th month, Evans claimed to be 'completely out of money for food and bills.'

She claimed she would receive no financial support from Gruffudd and that she was struggling to pay her legal fees and would be unable to 'feed or clothe' their daughters with her dwindling funds.

July 2022: Ioan asks for joint custody of daughters

After Evans filed for sole custody of their daughters, Gruffudd filed for custody and visitation rights to see his children, claiming in the filing that Evans had been purposely trying to cut communication between himself and the children.

He also petitioned that the girls attend in-person therapy and reunification therapy via zoom with him pending court-ordered mediation about custody.

In the filing, Gruffudd reiterated allegations that Evans had been verbally abusing during their 14-year marriage, and 'undermin[ing him] in front of the girls throughout their lives.'

August 2022: Ioan gets a three-year restraining order against Alice

Having previously been awarded a temporary restraining order against his estranged wife, Gruffudd successfully obtained a three-year restraining order against Evans in August 2022.

Harsher restrictions were put in place by a US judge, including a ruling preventing Alice from leaking private text messages from their children.

In the court documents, Gruffudd claimed Evans continued to cause him issues and wanted additional provisions added to the existing restraining order.

He also requested Evans not post his text messages or any other communications to the parties children, or the childrens text messages or any other communications to Ioan, on any social media account.

Gruffudd also asked for the judge to order Evans not to contact his employer or make disparaging statements about him to his employers.

October 2021: Ioan went public with his new love Bianca Wallace, posting a picture with the Australian actress who is 21 years younger than Alice

September 2022: Ioan and Alice's child custody battle hits a wall

Two months after Gruffudd filed for joint custody of his two daughters and asked for custody and visitation rights, the exes failed to settle their differences in family court, despite the help of a mediator.

Court documents showed the exes meeting was set for 31 August and that mediation had taken place but that 'no agreement' had been reached.

The document went on to confirm that that both Gruffudd and Evans had completed the mandatory Our Children First program.

The Superior Court of Los Angeles states of the program that: 'Parents are required by law to attend a mediation orientation/parent education program and a mediation session prior to appearing at an Order to Show Cause or Trial regarding the custody and/or visitation of their children.'

November 2022: Alice is reported to police over claims of 'child abuse' and drug use

Amid her ongoing custody battle, Evans claimed that someone called social services and the police on her with concerns over child abuse and drug and drink use.

The actress took to Twitter to allege that someone had sent authorities to her property who then found 'absolutely no signs of abuse' and 'no drugs or drink'.

July 2022: Ioan asked for joint custody of their daughters Ella, 13 and Elsie, nine, claiming Alice had been trying to cut communication between himself and the children (pictured in 2018

February 2023: Child custody agreement is stalled again after Alice is charged with 'violating restraining order'

Evans appeared in court in February 2023 to answer two charges of violating a restraining order that was put in place by her estranged husband.

The warring former couple were scheduled to appear later that month at a custody hearing but Evans asked for a postponement.

Her attorney, Marie LaMolinara, argued that testimony Alice gives at the custody hearing could be used against her in her later criminal trial, which would violate her right, under the 5th Amendment, not to incriminate herself.

March 2023: Charges against Alice are dropped

Prosecutors in Los Angeles dropped charges against Evans who had been accused of defying a restraining order the Welsh actor has against her.

Evans had pleaded not guilty to two counts of violating the order and at a hearing at LA's Airport Courthouse, Commissioner James Cooper dismissed the charges after prosecutors told the court they were 'unable to proceed.'

At a follow-up hearing, Evans' attorney, public defender, Daniel Stefanic, filed a motion asking for a ruling that would declare her 'factually innocent' of the charges.

August 2022: Ioan successfully obtained a three-year restraining order against Alice that banned her from mentioning him or his girlfriend on social media (Ioan and Bianca pictured May 2022)

May 2023: Alice moves out of $2million family home as ex Ioan is 'too poor' to pay for it

Evans and her children moved out of her family home and into a rented abode with their two daughters after Gruffudd pleaded with a court to allow the home to be sold, saying he didn't have the money to keep up with mortgage payments for his family following their split in 2021.

The Fantastic Four star told a court in a document filed last year that neither he nor Evans could afford the $6,750 a month in mortgage payments, insurance and property tax.

He said he'd had just one paid job in the past year and was so poor he was relying on handouts from his young girlfriend.

May 2023: Ella, 13, applies for a restraining order against dad Ioan and his girlfriend Bianca

The teenage daughter of Evans and Gruffudd asked for a restraining order against her famous father and his girlfriend in documents filed on May 31 at the Los Angeles Superior Court.

In the documents, Ella stated that she is 'afraid' of her father and accuses him of 'threatening to call the police on her anytime she misbehaves' during their visitations.

Ella filed for a domestic violence restraining order against her father following what she said was an ugly incident at their home, during which she claims Bianca 'slammed a door on her head'.

In her filing against her father, Ella requested that he be made to keep at least 100 yards away from her and not contact her for five years and asks that Gruffudd be ordered to undergo a '52-week batterer intervention program'.

The program, which involves weekly classes, is intended - the document states - to 'stop abuse, teach accountability, abuse effects, and gender roles'.

Ella requested that the restraining order also cover her nine-year-old sister Elsie, noting that she 'lives with her sister and is afraid that [Ioan] will abuse and/or continue to allow abuse to happen to my sister too'.

She also asked that her father be made to pay 'for some or all of her lawyer's fees and costs' and requests that her phone account and that of her sister Elsie's be transferred to their mother, alleging that Gruffudd has 'threatened to cancel my sister's phone account and my phone account'.

Along with her domestic restraining order filing, Ella included a declaration as evidence to support her case, in which she shared her recollection of a bitter spat that she claims took place while she and her nine-year-old sister Elsie were visiting their father's home on May 26.

Ella admitted that she was 'so mad' at her father to find that Wallace was at his apartment when she arrived that she began throwing food on his bed, on the floor, and on him, before she attempted to flee the apartment - which, she says, is when the actress 'slammed a door on her head', leaving her with 'a small bump' and a 'bruise on her arm'.

May 2023: The teenage daughter of Alice and Ioan asked for a restraining order against her famous father and his girlfriend in documents filed on May 31 (Alice and Ella pictured)

June 2023: Ioan accuses Alice of abusing him via fake Twitter accounts

In court documents seen by MailOnline, Gruffudd claimed his estranged wife screamed at him outside his Los Angeles home and called him a 'f***ing abuser' and 'abusive c***' in front of their 13-year-old daughter.

Gruffudd also claimed Evans repeatedly broken a three-year restraining order he took out against her which has resulted in criminal charges - and flashed him while wearing no underwear when their children were being dropped off.

The bombshell papers also contained claims from Gruffudd that: Evans has made 'thousands of false, threatening and harassing posts' about him; Evans claims to be home-schooling Ella, but has 'provided no information'; Evans has interfered with the girls' therapy and they are missing appointments; and Ella poured rolled oats from a bag over his head, which left him 'in shock'.

July 2023: Ioan and Alice are declared legally divorced

In a court order handed down in LA Superior Court, Judge Josh Freeman Stinn finally granted Gruffudd's request for divorce amid the couple's ongoing custody battle.

The Welsh actor had filed for bifurcation and termination of marital status in May which would allow him and Evans to be declared legally divorced even as they continue settlement negotiations in their split.

A minute order obtained by DailyMail.com show the judge approved the request on July 3, ruling: 'The Court finds irreconcilable differences have arisen in the marriage and grants judgment for the dissolution of marriage as to status only, effective today.'

July 2023: Ioan's daughter loses bid for domestic violence restraining order against him

Two months after Ella filed documents a judge at the Los Angeles Superior Court dismissed an application by Ella for a domestic violence restraining order.

Gruffudd was present in court, along with Ms Evans for the hearing, as well as the lawyer appointed as the minor's counsel last month.

The judge ruled: 'The minor's request for a domestic violence restraining order against the petitioner is hereby dismissed without prejudice.'

The decision came three weeks after the teenager's bid to get a civil protection order against Gruffudd's actress girlfriend Bianca Wallace, who suffers from multiple sclerosis, was also denied.

Ioan said: Friends of the Liar star said he was 'very relieved' at the outcome. They also claimed that the situation is a 'nightmare' but they are 'happy to see some progress'.

August 2023: Ioan accuses Alice of 'child abuse' and keeping their daughters from him

A Los Angeles judge attempted to shield Gruffudd and Evans from the fallout of their parents' ugly battles by banning the press from a custody hearing, keeping the proceedings secret.

But that didn't stop the warring former couple  who are both seeking custody of the girls  from taking vitriolic shots at each other in written court filings that are public and not sealed.

The Welsh star called his ex a 'child abuser'  while Evans claimed Gruffudd hadn't seen or called his children for almost three months, according to court documents obtained by DailyMail.com.

Ioan said: 'Alice has continued to inflict serious emotional harm on Ella and Elsie by her statements and by interfering in my relationship with them.

'Alice has verbally abused and undermined me in front of the girls throughout their lives.

'Since January 2021, Alice has also encouraged and instructed them not to see me or communicate with me and she has made thousands of threatening and abusive communications to me and about me.'

Alice said: 'I have read and disagree with the declaration of petitioner (Gruffudd) as to allegations that I am inflicting or causing our children ''serious emotional harm".

'No one has ever contacted me or reported me for such conduct. No professional, nor teacher, nor school administrator, nor counsel, nor therapist.

'Petitioner has not seen, complied with, nor called the children for 11 weeks. I don't understand how having no recent information, "petitioner believes" there is an urgency such that a child custody evaluation must be commenced.'
She has been an Armani ambassador for the past decade.

And Cate Blanchett continued to wave a flag for the brand as she stepped out in London for the Eau De Parfum Intense celebration party on Wednesday night.

The actress, 54, who won Oscars in 2005 and 2014 for Best Supporting Actress and Best Actress respectively, looked sensational in a sleek all black jumpsuit in velvet with puff sleeves and wide-leg trousers while looking preened to perfection.

The mega star was joined at the glam event by a selection of stars from lower down the rung of stardom - including a number of reality and fashion stars.

Also in attendance was Mette Towley, Gaia Wise, Amy Jackson, Wallis Day, Francesca Allen, Jourdan Raine, Tori Ree and Tasha Ghouri.

Glam: Cate Blanchett continued to wave a flag for the brand as she stepped out in London for the Eau De Parfum Intense celebration party on Wednesday night

Stunner: The actress, 54, who won Oscars in 2005 and 2014 for Best Supporting Actress and Best Actress respectively, looked sensational in a sleek all black jumpsuit in velvet with puff sleeves and wide-leg trousers while looking preened to perfection

Woah! The mega star was joined at the glam event by a selection of stars from lower down the rung of stardom - including a number of reality and fashion stars including Tasha Ghouri

Cate's collaboration with the brand was signed for a whopping $10million dollars in 2013 and she has featured on a number of adverts ever since.

Speaking about aligning her views with Armani and their take on beauty, she previously said: 'I think often we have a very narrow field of focus when we talk about beauty, but I find beauty in unexpected places...

'And through collaborations of various kinds over the years, my lens has widened  and I'm really grateful for that'.

Speaking about the fragrance Si, she said: 'With fragrance you can create an atmosphere; its very emotionally, subconsciously charged...

'Anything that can help inhabit a character or atmosphere on set I will do. Finding a scent for a character allows you to operate on a much more subconscious level. T

Her appearance comes after Cate enjoyed a rare outing with her son Roman in NYC.

Cate shares sons Roman, Dashiell, 21, and Ignatius, 15, as well as adopted daughter Edith, eight, with Upton, 57 - with whom she tied the knot in 1997.

The award-winning actress made her film debut in 1997 in the project titled Paradise Road, but rose to prominence after being cast with the leading role in the historical drama, Elizabeth (1998).

Stunner: Tori Ree looked sensational in a fitted dress

Throughout the course of her successful career thus far, Blanchett has been nominated for a total of eight Oscars and won two - Best Supporting Actress for The Aviator and Best Actress for Blue Jasmine.

While talking to Page Six last year in April, Cate admitted that despite her fame, her children are 'disinterested' in their mother's stardom.

'They have no idea, no idea,' she informed the outlet. 'I told them, "Oh I'm going to New York for 36 hours. I'll be back on Wednesday" One of them is getting an award at school, and they went, "Oh, OK, have a good time."'

The star expressed that her four kids are 'disinterested' in her fame, but 'in the best possible, healthiest way.'

She recently celebrated the release of a recent project titled, The New Boy, which premiered in Australia on July 6. The beauty portrayed the leading role of Sister Eileen in the movie - which was both written and directed by Warwick Thornton.

The premise follows, 'The mesmeric story of a nine-year-old aboriginal Australian orphan boy who arrives in the dead of night at a remote monastery run by a renegade nun,' per IMDB.
MARCH 2020

Kate revealed she and Prince Charles had got 'relatively close' at the Prince's Trust Awards on March 11 - Charles was diagnosed with coronavirus in mid-March.

She said: 'Around the 29/30 March, I came home came in and said [to Derek] 'god you look ill.'

'He said he had a headache, numbness in his right hand, and was struggling to breathe,

'I rang Dr Hilary (Jones) and tried to get through, he talked to Derek. He said put me back on, I think you need to call an ambulance'

Derek, 52, was taken into hospital on March 30 and remained in an unresponsive condition.

APRIL

Kate and her children isolated at home after she displayed 'mild symptoms'.

Kate said: 'Derek remains in intensive care and is still very ill. I'm afraid it remains an excruciatingly worrying time.

'I'm afraid he is still in a deeply critical condition, but he is still here, which means there is hope.'

MAY

Kate said: 'The journey for me and my family seems to be far from over as every day my heart sinks as I learn new and devastating ways this virus has more battles for Derek to fight.

'But he is still HERE & so there is still hope.'

That month, Kate and her family took part in the final clap for carers

She said: 'I'll never give up on that because Derek's the love of my life but at the same time I have absolute uncertainty'

JUNE

On June 5, Kate revealed Derek is now free from coronavirus but continues to fight against the damage inflicted on his body

JULY

On July 5, Kate revealed Derek has woken from his coma but he remains in a serious yet critical condition.

On July 8, she announced she would be returning to GMB, after being urged by doctors to 'get on with life' during Derek's recovery.

She added that Derek had 'opened his eyes' after waking from his coma, but has been told his recovery could take years.

On July 13, Kate returned to GMB for the first time since Derek was hospitalised.

On July 28, Kate revealed she'd paid an 'extra emotional' first visit to Derek, and admitted she's 'frustrated' by his slow progress.

AUGUST

On August 14, Kate reassured GMB viewers that Derek was 'still with us,' but it was 'a waiting game.'

On August 19, Kate revealed she celebrated Derek's birthday with their two children, and described the day as 'challenging' for her family.

SEPTEMBER

At the end of September, Derek reportedly becomes the longest surviving patient with coronavirus after spending 184 days in and out of intensive care.

Kate reveals Derek has lost eight stone during his battle.

The presenter announces she is returning to her Smooth Radio show so Derek can hear her voice.

OCTOBER

On October 30 Kate reveals that Derek has spoken for the first time in seven months, saying the word 'pain' to his wife, who watched on 'in tears' over FaceTime.

Kate says a day later that her husband no longer needs a ventilator to breathe.

NOVEMBER

Kate reveals her family car has been stolen in latest 'body blow' to her family life, as kind-hearted fans offer their cars to help.

She says she feels 'physically sick' at the prospect of facing her first Christmas without Derek.

DECEMBER

The GMB star tells viewers it is her dream to visit Derek on Christmas Day.

She also reveals she missed two weeks on GMB after her children were exposed to the virus, but thankfully she and the kids tested negative.

On December 17, Kate has an emotional conversation live on GMB with two nurses who treated Derek when he was first admitted to Whittington Hospital in North London.

On New Year's Eve she reflects on a 'calamitous' Christmas without Derek, as her house was flooded and she struggled to get a food delivery slot until her pal Emma Willis stepped in to help.

JANUARY 2021

Kate reveals she and her children got to visit Derek in hospital over the Christmas period, and it was the first time her family had seen him since he was hospitalised.

She also says she's banned from seeing him due to new restrictions introduced during the government's third lockdown.

FEBRUARY

Kate reveals she is unsure how much Derek will 'ever be able to recover' following warning from doctors that he may never wake from his coma

MARCH

Kate revealed that was in the process of adapting her home to suit Derek's needs when he is finally released from hospital, in the ITV documentary Finding Derek.

The programmed was praised by viewers for offering a heartbreaking look at the long-term effects of coronavirus.

Kate also revealed that Derek has 'no muscle left' since battling Covid

APRIL

Kate revealed that Derek was finally allowed to leave hospital, but would require round-the-clock care once he was returned home.

MAY

Kate revealed that despite now being home with his family, his communication abilities were 'minimal' and he 'couldn't really move'

DECEMBER

During an appearance on Piers Morgan's Life Stories, Kate revealed that Derek had said 'I love you' for the first time.

After celebrating Christmas, Derek was also pictured in a wheelchair during a trip to the pantomime with his family

JANUARY 2022

Kate revealed that Derek was 'very fatigued' and 'very weak' following the family outing, adding: 'I don't know what this year is going to bring.'

FEBRUARY

Kate offered a glimpse into the daily struggles of looking after her husband amid his battle with long Covid in the documentary Caring For Derek

She also revealed that Derek would die within three days if he was left alone to care for himself.

JULY

On July 6, Kate revealed that Derek had been re-admitted to hospital after suffering a 'downturn,' and in a later interview said she takes things 'day by day.'

On July 20, it was reported that Kate had pulled out of hosting Good Morning Britain to be at Derek's bedside after he took a 'very serious' turn for the worse.

Recalling the day, the presenter told The Sun: 'At one point Derek said to me, "This is it, this time. I am gone." It was just terrifying.

'His sepsis was gut-wrenching for all of us because it had gone undiagnosed until the point where it was about to take his life away again.'

JANUARY 2023

Kate became overwhelmed as she confronted former health secretary Matt Hancock over his handling of the pandemic and his decision to go on I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here.

She then became tearful and looked up as she spoke about Derek, who has been unwell for approaching three years.

Describing public anger towards him, Kate added of his decision: 'This gives the impression you still don't get why they are cross. You still don't get why people are upset. They want to hold you to more account.'

APRIL

Kate revealed that Derek was once again receiving care in hospital, as she shared the emotional moment Sir Elton John dedicated a song to the 'inspiring' couple.

She shared the emotional moment Sir Elton John dedicated a song to the 'inspiring' couple, writing on Instagram: 'Yes Derek has been back in hospital this week & yes there's such a long road ahead but #eltonjohn & @davidfurnish you gave the kids & Derek a moment that we will never forget and has lifted their spirits again to feel anything is possible.'

It was also reported that Kate was planning a trip across the world for pioneering treatment in a 'final hope' to help her husband.

MAY

Not Kate is reportedly facing a huge 716,000 tax bill after she was forced to close her husband's business two years after he became stricken with Covid-19.

The final total will be settled within the coming weeks, with friends insisting she will pay whatever is owed.

A friend told The Sun: 'The figures are terrifying and Kate is of course worried about all the financial pressures, but she has to trust the process.

'When it comes to an end, she is determined to pay back anything that's owed.

'It's no secret that Kate has been battling to keep her husband alive and working through some heartbreaking situations in her personal life in recent years.

'Sadly as well as the emotional stress of Derek's terrible illnesses the financial burden has also been crippling.'
Coronation Street's serial killer Stephen Reid's days appear to be numbered as the cast were seen heading to his leaving party ahead of a dramatic exit storyline.

The cast were seen out at The Dockyard Pub in Manchester on Wednesday to bid farewell to actor Todd Boyce, 62, who has been playing the role of the sinister villain since last year.

Todd, who has come under the limelight following his multiple murders on the cobbles, filmed his possible exit scenes last month.

Meanwhile, as fans wait to see his dramatic exit, the soap's stars celebrated his time on the show with a boozy outing together.

Jack P. Shepherd (David Platt), Julia Goulding (Shona Ramsey), Mollie Gallagher (Nina Lucas) were all spotted leaving the ITV studios before joining the other cast to celebrate.

Departure: Jack P. Shepherd (David Platt), Julia Goulding (Shona Ramsey), Mollie Gallagher (Nina Lucas) headed out in Manchester on Wednesday to celebrate Todd Boyce's departure

Dramatic exit: Todd, 62, who plays Stephen Reid, enjoyed a boozy farewell celebration with his co-stars at the The Dockyard Pub in Manchester

Helen Worth (Gail Platt) and Paula Wilcox (Elaine Jones) seemed to be in great spirits as they chatted away together.

Meanwhile, the star of the moment Todd appeared to be in great spirits as he gave a thumbs up to the cameras.

Todd gathered with the cast to look back on the good moments they shared together on the soap.

Metro reported that things continue to fall apart for Stephen in the coming weeks, as the remains of Leo's body will be found on the building site Ed (Trevor Michael Georges) and Ronnie (Vinta Morgan) recently acquired.

Scenes have also been filmed at a canal, with police and Corrie locals gathering to see another horrifying find pulled out.

Speaking to the Metro, Todd revealed: 'We are going to see him [Stephen] start taking risks. As he gets more desperate, his life is starting to unravel and it is going to be interesting to see how he deals with the pressure.

'He is bound to start making mistakes and that could be his undoing.'

Stephen was finally caught out in Coronation Street last month, but fans were furious to discover he still might not face justice.

Boozy celebrations: Helen Worth (Gail Platt) and Paula Wilcox (Elaine Jones) also joined the cast to celebrate Todd's upcoming departure

The end? Stephen was seen making his exit from Weatherfield in scenes filmed last month

Jetting off somewhere? Todd was seen filming scenes as Stephen, with the character arriving at the airport before dashing over towards a ticket desk

The Businessman has murdered three people over the last year, recently ending the life of rival Rufus Donahue (Steven Meo) in what appeared to be a drowning.

His niece Sarah Barlow finally found proof that Stephen had stolen money from Audrey's equity line after speaking to his ex-wife Gabrielle.

Street killer Stephen was seen making his possible exit from Weatherfield as actor Todd Boyce was filmed dashing through the airport last month.

He caused havoc on the cobbles as he attempted to gain control of the local underwear factory Underworld, drugging the boss Carla Connor (Alison King).

The criminal also attempted to drug and kill his fiancee Elaine Metcalfe (Paula Wilcox), seeing her wind up in hospital, while he has also accidentally drugged himself along the way.

Todd was seen filming scenes as Stephen, with the character arriving at the airport before dashing over towards a ticket desk.

He saw off Jenny Connor's (Sally Ann Matthews) fiance Leo Thompkins (Joe Frost) in a flashback episode last year, and both his father Teddy Thompkins (Grant Burgin) and a former client Rufus this year.

Dark plot: Businessman Stephen has murdered three people over the last year, recently ending the life of rival Rufus Donahue (Steven Meo) in what appeared to be a drowning

The ruthless criminal has also been attempting to kill off Underworld boss Carla by continuously drugging her and tried to murder his fiancee Elaine.

In addition, he has terrorised some local teenagers who attempted to buy drugs from him.

Artificial intelligence has even waded in on who Stephen could put an end to next in a dramatic twist.

He has been taking 380 each month from Underworld's accounts to pay for the life insurance, paying the money to a mystery business named Seagull Ltd.

However, Carla told him Owen Longford (Ben Hull) wants to inspect the company accounts, prompting Stephen to become very concerned.

Bard AI's software stated: 'Stephen has already tried to kill Elaine once, and he may not give up until she is dead. Elaine is also a wealthy woman, and Stephen is motivated by her money.'

Coronation Street continues on ITV1 and ITVX on Friday at 8pm.
James Norton looked undeniably suave as he posed alongside Jenna Coleman at the ATG summer party at Kensington Palace in London on Wednesday.

The actor, 38, cut a dapper figure in a white linen suit and white shirt for the evening.

He paired his look with black suit shoes and wore his shirt with a few buttons down to add a casual element to his look.

The Happy Valley star appeared in good spirits as he wrapped his arm around fellow actress Jenna, 37, and posed for pictures.

Jenna looked effortlessly chic in a white lace dress.

Looking good: James Norton, 38, looked undeniably suave as he posed alongside Jenna Coleman, 37 at the ATG summer party at Kensington Palace in London on Wednesday

Suave: The actor cut a dapper figure in a white linen suit and white shirt for the evening

The sophisticated number featured a high-neck sheer design and was cinched in at the waist with a designer belt.

She completed her look with glamorous pearl earrings and a black leather bag and added a pop a colour with a dark pink lip.

She posed for snaps with other stars at the event including her director boyfriend Jamie Childs and Sex and the City's Sarah Jessica Parker.

The event was hosted by Ambassador Theatre Group CEO Mark Cornell in honour of Sarah and Matthew Broderick.

Jenna and Jamie met when he directed her on Netflix series The Sandman.

She previously dated her Victoria co-star Tom Hughes, who she met in 2013 on the set of drama series Dancing On The Edge, but the pair went their separate ways in 2020.

It comes after the first look images for Jenna's upcoming psychological thriller, Wilderness, were released in July.

The actress, who plays Liv in the 'twisted love story,' could been seen wearing a floral mini dress as she walked through one of America's national parks.

White for the night: The Happy Valley star appeared in good spirits as he wrapped his arm around fellow actress Jenna and posed for pictures

Style: Jenna looked effortlessly chic in a white lace dress

Pretty: The sophisticated number featured a high-neck sheer design and was cinched in at the waist with a designer belt

Fun: She posed for snaps with other stars at the event including her director boyfriend Jamie Childs and Sex and the City's Sarah Jessica Parker

Stunning: She completed her look with glamorous pearl earrings and a black leather bag and added a pop a colour with a dark pink lip

Beauty: Sarah wore a lovely green dress as she posed for a smiling snap with Victoria actress Jenna

She topped her look off with a cropped yellow cardigan and tied a satin scarf into her hair as she got into character.

Joined by Oliver Jackson-Cohen as her husband Will, the couple posed for a selfie over looking a cliff edge.

Pretty Little Liars star Ashley Benson and Eric Balfour also star in the series as Cara and Garth, Will's colleague, who the couple run into on their trip.

Other teaser photos show Jenna and Oliver's characters driving through a country road in a vintage blue car and the group together in the forest .

The series follows Liv, who upon finding out about her husband Will's affair, decides to seek revenge in one of America's secluded national parks.

They travel from Monument Valley to the Grand Canyon and then Yosemite before ending up with a wild weekend in Las Vegas.

The official synopsis reads: 'A novel by B.E. Jones, Wilderness is the story of British couple Liv and Will who seem to have it all.

'A rock-solid marriage and a glamorous new life in New York thousands of miles from their provincial hometown, yet who are still young enough to feel that their whole lives are ahead of them'.

'Until Liv learns about Wills affair. Heartbreak is swiftly followed by another emotion: fury. Revenge is her only option, and when Will proposes a trip around America's epic National Parks to give their relationship a fresh start, Liv knows just how to get it.'

The series is expected to debut on Prime Video later this year.

Love story: Jenna and Jamie met when he directed her on Netflix series The Sandman

Attendees: (L to R) Jamie Childs, James Norton, Jenna Coleman, Gala Gordon and Sara-Ella Ozbek
Richard Osman has revealed the awkward encounter he had backstage with the late David Bowie at one of his concert's on Hits Radio Breakfast on Thursday.

The Quiz show host, 52, candidly spoke with Hits Radio hosts Fleur East and co-host James and Matt about his bizarre blunder with the pop musician.

The Pointless star revealed that the second time meeting the icon was when he got told to leave David's toilet, which he had accidently mistaken for a public cubical.

He said: 'I once got thrown out of his toilet as well. It was backstage at the same festival and I thought "oh thats nice theres a little secluded loo".

'You know what loos are like at festivals even backstage theyre pretty grim.

Awks! Richard Osman, 52, has revealed the awkward encounter he had backstage with the late David Bowie at one of his concert's on Hits Radio on Thursday, (pictured in 1987)

Blunder: The Quiz show host candidly spoke with Hits Radio Breakfast hosts Fleur East and co-host James and Matt about his bizarre blunder with the pop musician

'But there was a really lovely loo available with quilted loo roll, carpeted floors and walls, it was beautiful, so I went in.

'And then I just heard knocking on the door and a voice say "Please, please leave Mr Bowies toilet"'

The TV personality, who is the brother of Suede star Mat Osman, also revealed what it was like to have a famous sibling growing up and detailed his initial reaction to meeting David for the first time.

He added: 'Hes very cool my brother and Ive never been cool, so Ive never competed with him in that way.

'I never wanted to be a pop star, I dont have it in me.

'So, for me when they were getting absolutely massive, Id be out in Barcelona watching them on stage and Id be standing next to David Bowie and Id be going "whoa this is absolutely nuts"'

It comes after Richard, who is also the author of several crime novels, claimed he was rejected by MI6 during his student days to become a spy - but jests he would have been 'terrible' in the role.

Anecdote: The Pointless star revealed that the second time meeting the icon was when he got told to leave David's toilet (pictured on the Graham Norton Show 2022)

Hilarious: He said: 'I once got thrown out of his toilet as well. It was backstage at the same festival and I thought "oh thats nice theres a little secluded loo" (pictured on Lorraine 2022)

The TV star studied at Trinity College, Cambridge, around 30 years ago and said he took part in a series of 'fun' tests for the intelligence service.

His first, The Thursday Murder Club, which was shortlisted for the British Book Awards' crime and thriller book of the year after its 2020 release, features Elizabeth Best, an ex-spy and current retirement village resident who investigates murders.

The author claimed in Saturday's The Guardian while talking about his new novel The Last Devil To Die that he was put forward as a possible candidate for MI6.

Richard said: 'They (MI6) just said: 'No, it's fine'... I would have been terrible. I'm too tall, not bright enough, and if I have a secret, I tell everybody. You could not find a worse spy. I cannot tell a lie.'

He also remarked, tongue firmly in cheek: 'I'm still available, by the way, if MI6 read this. I could be useful, because no-one is going to suspect me now.'
Jack Fincham stepped out with his dog on Thursday after denying any wrongdoing following a reported arrest for drug-driving and using false number plates.

Dressed casually in a blue polo shirt, shorts and trainers, Jack, 31, was seen talking on his mobile phone while walking the family pet Elvis, a rescue dog whose ears were cropped by its former owner, close to his Kent home.

The former Love Island winner insists he has not been charged with any offence after an alleged incident on the A2, near Dartford, on August 26, during which The Sun report he was arrested for drug-driving and using false plates.

His solicitor Conor Johnstone, from Maj Law firm, said he understands the number plates on Fincham's vehicle were private plates, not false plates, and the TV star vehemently denies all allegations made against him.

He also said the TV personality is considering lodging a formal complaint against the police after becoming a "target" by local police.

Stepping out: Jack Fincham ventured out on Thursday as he emerged for the first time since his reported and using false plates on his car

Man's best friend: The former love Island winner walked his dog close close to his home in Swanley, Kent, close to where he was allegedly stopped by police on August 26

Don't mind me: Jack popped in some earphones as he ventured out with his dog on Thursday

He told the PA news agency: 'Mr. Fincham has not been charged with drug driving and denies any drug consumption whatsoever.

'There is no evidence at this stage that Mr. Fincham drove whilst over the legal limit and we are hopeful that his blood results will prove the same.

'Mr. Fincham does feel as though he has become a target of Kent Police in recent months and is considering lodging a complaint against the force.'

In a statement on Thursday, Kent Police said: 'On Saturday 26 August 2023, officers arrested a 31-year-old man from Swanley on suspicion of drug driving, careless driving, driving without insurance and driving while displaying false number plates, on the A2 near Dartford.

'He has since been bailed until 26 November 2023.'

Jack won the 2018 series of hit ITV2 dating show Love Island with ex-girlfriend Dani Dyer, daughter of former EastEnders actor Danny Dyer.

Not happy: A solicitor representing Jack has said the Love Island winner is considering lodging a formal complaint against the police after becoming a "target"

Arrest: Jack was arrested on suspicion of drug-driving and using false plates on his car, according to reports

Stopped: The reality star is said to have been stopped by police on August 26

He later swapped a career in reality TV for boxing, with an upcoming fight against Geordie Shore's Aaron Chalmers.

The TV personality was given a blood test and held on suspicion of careless driving and driving without insurance following his alleged arrest, reports The Sun.

A source close to Jack added the reality star denies taking drugs and was using private plates rather than false ones.

MailOnline has contacted representatives and Kent Police for comment.

Jack is reportedly set to fly out to Fiji to appear on Love Island Games, the spin-off series where contestants enter a villa in their quest to find love.

Back in July, the TV personality revealed he had split from his girlfriend Jodie Ella and alluded to a villa return in the wake of Adam Collard and Kady McDermott's explosive comebacks.

When asked about Kady, Jack, who was recently linked to Chloe Brockett and Frankie Sims before his romance with Jodie, said: 'Oh yeah of course I'd go back on the show. I'd love to. It's like a perfect environment to meet someone...

TV: Jack is reportedly set to fly out to Fiji to appear on Love Island Games, the spin-off series where contestants enter a villa in their quest to find love after winning in 2018 (pictured)

All over: Back in July, Jack revealed he had split from his girlfriend Jodie Ella

'You haven't got to worry about your phone or going to work or cooking! I'm not just trying to get out of work but yeah, I'd go back on the show in a heartbeat.'

While he admitted he 'gets a lot of attention', Jack confessed he is ready to find lasting love, saying: 'But actually Im kind of ready to find someone...

'[I want to] spend time with them. My little brother is 28 and hes been with his girlfriend for nine years and I think wow Id love that now.'

In 2019, Jack shockingly confessed that he doesn't know if he's ever been in love, despite dating Dani for nearly a year.

On Celebs Go Dating, Jack broke his silence on their split, as he explained that he thinks they moved too fast after they left the Love Island villa.

As dating agents Anna Williamson and Paul C Brunson asked if he'd ever been in love, Jack admitted: 'I don't know now'.

He added: 'I had three serious girlfriends long-term... and you know, being with them, I've said "I love you" to all of them. Did I? I don't know'.

He said: 'If we had lived in Love Island forever, wed have been fine. We rushed it straight away, we moved in together. I did want to [move in with her] but I wish we had waited.

'I let her rush me a little bit. We had a genuine connection in there and I think anyone can see that. Honestly, and I mean this, I wish her all the happiness in the world.

'Im not a bitter person. Oh, 100 per cent Im over Dani and now I want to go and meet someone. I've missed out on so much dating. I haven't done it on over a year.'
Cindy Crawfod has revealed in a new clip from her upcoming docuseries The Supermodels that some of the biggest early opposition to her superstar modeling career came from a surprising source: her father.

The 57-year-old catwalk iconic shared in a new clip from the Apple TV+ show obtained by People that he initially thought 'modeling' was just a code word for 'prostitution' when she first broke the news to him.

Because of that, she revealed, her parents joined her at her first modeling audition to make sure there wasn't any funny business going on.

Cindy, who has her own model mini-me daughter Kaia Gerber, is profiled in The Supermodels, along with other iconic beauties of the era, including Christy Turlington, Linda Evangelista and Naomi Campbell. The documentary will be released on September 20.

In the latest clip, she revealed that she knew nothing about modeling and wasn't sure how she could go from being a Midwestern girl to a major fashion icon.

Awkward! Cindy Crawford, 57, revealed in a clip from The Supermodels, obtained by People on Thursday, that her parents feared that modeling was code for sex work when she was getting her start

Overly protective: 'My dad really didn't understand that modeling was a real career,' she explained. 'He thought modeling was like another name for prostitution'; seen in 1991

'I never even thought about modeling,' she admitted as a photo of her from the 1980s flashed on screen.

She spoke while wearing a chic black leather jacket and a matching LBD while seated in a white director's chair on a gray set.

'I didn't even know it was a real job. I didn't know how I would get from DeKalb, Illinois, to a magazine,' she shared.

The clip cut to some sizzling footage of her in her early days as she showed off some seductive looks while wearing a sleeveless black dress.

If Cindy knew little about the world of modeling that she was soon to be inducted into, her father knew even less.

'My dad really didn't understand that modeling was a real career,' she explained. 'He thought modeling was like another name for prostitution, so they came with me to my very first modeling appointment.

Crawford's latest clip comes after she joined Linda Evangelista, 58, Naomi Campbell, 53, and Christy Turlington, 54, for the September issue of both US and British Vogue, which labeled them 'the greatest of all time.'

The cover girls all wore dark colors as they posed for shutterbug Rafael Pavarotti for the issue, which hit newsstands late last month.

The four-part show focuses on the top models of the 1990s.

The series is directed by Academy Award winner Roger Ross Williams and Larissa Bills, while it was executive produced by Brian Grazer and Ron Howard's Imagine Documentaries.

Watchful eyes: Because of her parents' concerns, Cindy revealed that they accompanied her to her first modeling gig to make sure there was no funny business; seen in 1992

New to this: Cindy didn't know much more about modeling than her parents, admitting she didn't know it was a 'real job' or how it she could get from her home of Dekalb, Illinois, to appearing in a magazine; seen in 1990

Back at it: She appeared with her Supermodels costars Linda Evangelista, 58, Naomi Campbell, 53, and Christy Turlington, 54, for the September issue; here is the US version

There was also a UK version: In this British Vogue cover, Crawford is seen sitting in front

'There was a sisterhood there, defined by caring and loyalty: When one is down you pick the other one up,' Campbell shared with Vogue.

The ladies also said they were able to avoid the abuses that were in the fashion industry in the 90s.

'It's just luck and grace, honestly. I felt like my career took off pretty quickly, so maybe there were more eyes on me and they couldn't get away with stuff,' said Turlington. 'But I don't even think it was that: Predatory people are predatory people.'

'You'd get invited to a party on someone's yacht and I'd think, What do you even wear on a yacht? What fork do you use? So I would just not go,' added Cindy. 'Yes, I probably missed out on some fabulous opportunities but probably avoided some less than fabulous opportunities as well.'

Naomi said she was tough in her youth: 'I come from a strong line of Black women, Jamaican women. If something felt wrong, I told it. I spoke up.'

Evangelista talked losing the perks that come with fame.

'Out of sight, out of mind. Now we buy our tickets and we sit with the fans in nosebleedwe're fine with that. I wanted to have a very normal upbringing for my child,' she said of attending games with her son Augie, who she shares with ex Francois-Henri Pinault, Salma Hayek's current husband.

'We went to Chanel a couple of weeks ago to get a present and we waited half an hour to get in,' she added. '[Augie] said, 'Isn't there someone you could call?' I do not want an entitled child.'

Evangelista also discussed Salma Hayek who is married to and has a 15-year-old daughter Valentina with Francois-Henri Pinault.

They were part of the 'it' model crowd: The four women seen with other supermodels on the cover of Vogue in 1992

Linda has a son with Pinault, 16-year-old Augustin.

Turns out Linda and Salma get along well.

'Salma got on the plane with her daughter, came here, and made Thanksgiving dinner. She asked what I wanted -- it was a very eclectic wish list. I wanted her Mexican chicken with truffled potatoes.

'And she spent the day in the kitchen and cooked it herself. No help,' said Linda. 'The kids helped her at the end. She made a feast -- a beautiful, beautiful meal. I had told her that I wasn't going to have Thanksgiving; I wasn't feeling well. And she said, 'Oh yes you are: I am coming.' And poof, she was here.'

Linda - who appeared much slimmer in her shoot after battling weight gain from a fat-freezing process - also talked aging.

She uses Botox on her forehead. 'So I am a hypocrite,' she admitted, 'but I want to grow old. I want to watch my son grow into a fine young man. I just want to stick around.'

The teaser for their new docuseries was shared in July.

The logline for the series reads, 'The Supermodels travels back to the 1980s, when four women from different corners of the world united in New York.

'Already forces in their own right, the gravitas they achieved by coming together transcended the industry itself.

'Their prestige was so extraordinary that it enabled the four to supersede the brands they showcased, making the names Naomi, Cindy, Linda and Christy as prominent as the designers who styled them.

'Today, the four supermodels remain on the frontlines of culture through activism, philanthropy and business prowess.

Wow women: The trailer for the new Apple TV+ docuseries The Supermodels was released on Tuesday. The four-part show focuses on the top models of the 1990s. They were Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, Naomi Campbell and Christy Turlington

Doing her best: Linda posed in black as well after a tough year

'As the fashion industry continues to redefine itself  and women's roles within it  this is the ultimate story of power and how four women came together to claim it, paving the way for those to follow.'

In 2020 the ladies opened up about the show.

Speaking about her new venture, Naomi told MailOnline: 'My sisters Christy, Linda, Cindy and I are extremely thrilled to share our story with the world and there could be no better partners than Brian Grazer and Ron Howard which is a dream come true to bring it to life, as we knew they would respect and honor our story.

'We hope our journey seen in the docuseries will encourage, motivate and inspire young people around the world.

'We look forward to this great adventure ahead with director Barbara Kopple.'

Cindy wrote on her Instagram page: 'I'm excited to reunite with my friends to both celebrate and examine the way supermodels transcended the traditional perceptions and limits of modeling in the fashion industry through time.

'With the support of Imagine Documentaries and Academy Award-winning director Barbara Kopple, we plan to explore the dynamic personalities, and shifts in media and culture that helped shape and define this iconic era.'

The Supermodels will take fans back to the 1980s at the start of their modelling careers and document how the four women came together from across the globe and collectively achieved a notoriety that transcended throughout the industry.

Blue mood: Christy had on a blue top and blue denim jeans while in a white chair

Plaid to see you: Naomi wore brown, black and white plaid

The staple: Naomi in 1991, left, in the Alaia show in Paris and on the town in 2019, right, in Marc Jacobs

Her very early years: As a young model on the cover of Vogue Italy

The four-part series will also examine the ladies work today, in not only the fashion industry, but activism, philanthropy and business, and how the quartet have blazed a path for the next generation.

Linda said of the series: 'To finally have the opportunity to tell our story in collaboration with the brilliant team at Imagine, and under the direction of Barbara Kopple, is as exciting for us as we hope it will be for viewers.

'I would love for people to see this as a celebration of not only our individual stories, but also to the power of friendship, dreams and perseverance.'

While Christy added: ' I am looking forward to looking back on this unprecedented time in fashion with these incredible women whom I have grown up with.'

Originally from south London, Naomi established herself among the top three most recognizable and in-demand models of the late 1980s.

Just before she turned 16, she was on the cover of British Elle and in 1987, she became British Vogue's first black cover girl since 1966.

Meanwhile Cindy is said to have featured on around 500 magazine covers and walked for shows including Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Christian Dior, DKNY, and previously, Valentino.

The ladies, alongside fellow super models Claudia Schiffer, Helen Christensen and Carla Bruni reunited on the catwalk in 2017 for the Versace SS18 show at Milan Fashion Week.

She has not aged! Cindy seen left on the catwalk at a presentation of Dolce And Gabbana's spring-summer collection in Milan in 1991. On the right, the star is seen in 2017 at the Daily Front Row's 3rd Annual Fashion Los Angeles Awards

An instant classic: The Illinois native landed on the cover of Vogue dozens of times

A dynamo always: Christy is seen on the runway in 1991, left, and at FGI Night Of Stars Gala at Cipriani Wall Street in NYC in 2019, right

A favorite for healthy products: The San Francisco native landed on many magazine covers

Together again: Naomi and Cindy, alongside fellow super models Claudia Schiffer, Helen Christensen and Carla Bruni reunited on the catwalk in 2017 for the Versace SS18 show at Milan Fashion Week

Stunning: The Nineties supermodels walked designer Donatella Versace down the runway to rapturous applause as they paid tribute to her late designer brother Gianni Versace, who was killed in 1997

Showing the young guns how it was done, fashion's golden girls brought the show to a stunning climax, after it was opened by Kendall Jenner and model sisters Bella and Gigi Hadid.

The Nineties supermodels walked designer Donatella Versace down the runway to rapturous applause as they paid tribute to her late designer brother Gianni Versace, who was killed in 1997.

On the 20th anniversary of his death, it was a fitting tribute to a man with whom each of the women worked personally during their modelling days.

The women were all dressed in glittering gowns, proving that their supermodel figures were all looking impeccable into their late forties - and early fifties, for some at the time.
Jonah Hill and his girlfriend Olivia Millar were spotted enjoying a parents' night out in Los Angeles on Wednesday.

The 39-year-old actor and the entrepreneur were joined by a friend as they stepped out after grabbing dinner together at Malibu steakhouse Lucky's.

The 21 Jump Street star  who was publicly accused of emotional abuse by his ex, Sarah Brady, in July  and Millar had previously welcomed their first child earlier this year in May.

For their evening plans, he put on a casual display and donned a pinstriped button-down with the sleeves rolled up above his elbows.

Teamed with the top, he sported a pair of olive green trousers with a raw hem and a brown leather belt.

Night out: Jonah Hill and his girlfriend, Olivia Millar, were spotted enjoying a parents' night out in Los Angeles on Wednesday

His baby mama: The 21 Jump Street star and Millar had previously welcomed their first child earlier this year in May. For their night out, his girlfriend of one year bundled up in an oversized, black and beige sweater

He finished off his effortlessly stylish look with all-white sneakers and a pair of black-framed specs.

At his side, his girlfriend of one year bundled up in an oversized, black and beige sweater.

The daughter of 1980s top model Esme Marshall also wore black pants and flip flops for their relaxing night out.

They were also joined by a gal pal, who donned a pink sweater and distressed denim jeans for their get-together.

Earlier this year, Hill and Millar welcomed their first child  whose name and gender have not yet been revealed.

Their exciting announcement came shortly after Hill was noticeably absent from his sister Beanie Feldstein's wedding in New York that same month.

Just months earlier in March, Millar was spotted in California with a baby bump, which confirmed the couple were expecting their first child together.

Dinner with a pal: The 39-year-old actor and the entrepreneur were joined by a friend as they stepped out after grabbing dinner together at Malibu steakhouse Lucky's

At the time, she was also spotted wearing a diamond on her ring finger prompting engagement rumors.

His ex: He dated professional surfer Sarah Brady from August 2021 until they called it quits sometime in 2022. Since their split, Brady revealed she was placed 'involuntary mental hold' after releasing alleged text exchanges between them

Previously, the pair first sparked romance rumors when they were spotted together in August 2022.

Before then, Hill was engaged to Gianna Santos before they split in October 2020.

He then dated professional surfer Sarah Brady from August 2021 until they called it quits sometime in 2022.

Since their split, Brady revealed she was placed 'involuntary mental hold' after releasing alleged text exchanges between them.

With the messages, she claimed Hill was 'emotionally abusive' and weaponized 'therapy talk'.

In July, Zoey 101 actress Alexa Nikolas also opened up about his alleged sexual misconduct saying he slammed her 'across the door' and 'put his tongue right in my mouth'.

Seemingly as a result, Hill and Millar have opted to keep their relationship incredibly private.
Former Love Island winner Jack Fincham has pulled out of starring in the spin-off show Love Island Games at the last minute, according to reports.

It comes as the reality star, 31, was reportedly arrested on suspicion of drug-driving and using false plates on his car on August 26.

Jack, who won the 2018 series of Love Island, is said to have been stopped by police as he travelled at high speed on the A2 near his home in Swanley, Kent.

Now, Jack is said to have decided to step back from entering the All Stars villa in Fiji for the show - which will feature former stars from the past UK, US and Australian series - in favour of appearing on Celebrity Ex On The Beach.

'He decided Ex On The Beach was a better fit for him - he'd prefer to do that show so he flew out yesterday,' a source told The Sun.

TV: Former Love Island winner Jack Fincham has pulled out of starring in the spin-off show Love Island Games at the last minute, according to reports (pictured in 2018)

Stopped: It comes as the reality star, 31, was reportedly arrested on suspicion of drug-driving and using false plates on his car on August 26

MailOnline has contacted Jack's representatives and MTV for comment.

At the time of his arrest, Jack was given a blood test and held on suspicion of careless driving and driving without insurance, according to reports.

He was then released under investigation until November 26.

Jacks solicitor Conor Johnstone, of M.A.J Law, told the publication: 'Mr Fincham has not been charged with drug driving and denies any drug consumption whatsoever.

'There is no evidence at this stage that Mr Fincham drove whilst over the legal limit and we are hopeful that his blood results will prove the same.'

A source close to Jack added the reality star denies taking drugs and was using private plates rather than false ones.

Jack has just appeared on Celebs Go Dating after splitting from his girlfriend Jodie Ella.

Speaking as part of the Original Penguin X Campaign Against Living Miserably Under The Surface podcast, he alluded to a villa return in the wake of Adam Collard and Kady McDermott's explosive comebacks.

When asked about Kady, Jack, who was recently linked to Chloe Brockett and Frankie Sims before his romance with Jodie, said: 'Oh yeah of course I'd go back on the show. I'd love to. It's like a perfect environment to meet someone...

'You haven't got to worry about your phone or going to work or cooking. I'm not just trying to get out of work but yeah, I'd go back on the show in a heartbeat.'

All over: Back in July, Jack revealed he had split from his girlfriend Jodie Ella

Champions: Jack won the 2018 series alongside Dani Dyer

While he admitted he 'gets a lot of attention', Jack confessed he is ready to find lasting love, saying: 'But actually I'm kind of ready to find someone...

'[I want to] spend time with them. My little brother is 28 and he's been with his girlfriend for nine years and I think wow I'd love that now.'

It comes as five more stars have been revealed as contestants on the new spin-off series Love Island Games.

Megan Barton Hanson, 29, and Curtis Pritchard, 27, have 'already jetted off to film the new series' with host Maya Jama, 29, according to The Sun.

The new programme, which is yet to announce the full cast, will feature former stars from the UK, US and Aussie versions.

According to the publication, Danica Taylor, 22, who appeared on the UK show last year, is the third star announced to be taking part in the spin-off show.

And she will be joined by US stars, Deb Chubb, Carrington Rodriguez, Cely Vazquez and Imani Ayan.

Deborah, who has been single for five years, rose to fame on the show last year and is joining Carrington Rodriguez from the 2020 series of the US show.

Cely Vazquez was a runner up on season two of Love Island USA and Imani rose to fame on season five of the show.

Ready for love... again: It comes as five more stars have been revealed as contestants on the new spin-off series Love Island Games, including Megan Barton Hanson

She's back: Danica Taylor, who appeared on the UK show last year, is also said to be taking part in the spin-off show

Hunk: Carrington Rodriguez was on the 2020 series of the US show and will make making a swift return to the spin-off

The current cast is to be a done deal and will soon be joined by a host of other Love Island stars from various versions of the hit dating show.

Last week, a source told the publication: 'Megan and Curtis are both amazing signings for the spin-off and bosses are rubbing their hands together that they agreed to take part.

'They are two of Love Island's most memorable contestants ever - who could forget Megan turning every boy's head in the villa, or Curtis' brutal breakup with Amy [Hart]?'

The new series will firstly hit screens in the US on Peacock in November, before making its way to UK screens.
Kelsey Grammer is back as his most iconic character in the first official trailer for his new revival of Frasier.

The Paramount+ series, which finds the eponymous psychiatrist relocated in Boston after leaving his home in Seattle, charts his attempts to restart his relationship with his grown son Frederick 'Freddy' Crane (Jack Cutmore-Scott).

Along the way, Grammer, 68, gets in plenty of jokes about Frasier's hoity-toity mannerisms while hanging out with his similarly educated pals at a bar.

The series premieres on October 12 on Paramount+ in the US and on October 13 in the UK and Ireland.

Although the new Frasier is ostensibly a revival of the popular 1990s and 2000s series of the same name, it features few of the original cast members aside from its star.

He's back! Kelsey Grammer, 68, returns in the first official trailer for his Frasier revival series, released on Thursday, which shows him moving to Boston

Reunited and it feels so good! Along the way he attempts to restart his relationship with his grown son Freddy Crane (Jack Cutmore-Scott)

Missing from the new ensemble are John Mahoney, who played Frasier's father and died in 2018, David Hyde Pierce, who costarred as Frasier's brother Niles, and Jane Leeves, who played Niles' future wife Daphne.

Frasier, who was first introduced to audiences on the massively popular sitcom Cheers before getting his own spin-off series, shares his son Freddy with his ex-wife Lilith (Bebe Neuwirth).

The motherson duo had originally lived in Boston during the original show's timeline, though Neuwirth and the original Frederick actor Trevor Einhorn made guest appearances on the series.

By the time of Frasier's East Coast move, Freddy is now all grown up and living with his girlfriend Eve (Jess Salgueiro).

Frasier highlights his new location in the opening lines of the trailer, while also alluding to his history as a bar regular on Cheers.

'What is it about the city of Boston that leads me to forego the more sophisticated temptation of the fermented grape?' he says haughtily as he holds a mug of beer.

'Sitting here with a cold brew in my hand, I feel amalgamated with the hoi polloi,' he declares proudly.

'You are the classic everyman,' jokes his friend Alan Cornwall. Nicholas Lyndhurst plays Alan, a college friend of Frasier's who is now a professor in Boston.

Relocated: Frasier highlights his new location in the opening lines. 'What is it about the city of Boston that leads me to forego the more sophisticated temptation of the fermented grape?' he says haughtily

Having a laugh: 'Sitting here with a cold brew in my hand, I feel amalgamated with the hoi polloi,' he declares proudly. 'You are the classic everyman,' jokes his friend Alan Cornwall in reply

Unexpected visitor: Next, Frasier's unexpected reunion with his son Freddy is featured. 'Freddy, surprise!' he shouts as his son walks up to his apartment door

Didn't see that coming: 'Dad!' replies a shocked Freddy. 'You're at my door  unannounced!' Frasier doesn't let it throw him off though. 'There's a shorter way to say that  Surprise!'

'Frasier is back,' the trailer then declares in a title card.

Next, Frasier's unexpected reunion with his son Freddy is featured.

'Freddy, surprise!' he shouts as his son walks up to his apartment door.

'Dad!' replies a shocked Freddy. 'You're at my door  unannounced!'

Frasier doesn't let it throw him off though. 'There's a shorter way to say that  Surprise!'

The trailer adds that Frasier is 'basically the same' as he makes his clumsy entrance into his son's formerly independent life.

Back at the bar, Frasier's mood has taken a turn for the worse as he recounts his meeting with his son to his friends.

'What's going on with your son?' inquires Olivia (Toks Olagundoye), the chair of an Ivy League psychology department.

Down in the dumps: Back at the bar, Frasier's mood has taken a turn for the worse as he recounts his meeting with his son to his friends

New acquaintances: 'Wish I knew. He's got a girlfriend I've never even heard of,' he says over footage of him meeting Eve

Turned down: 'When I told him I wanted to spend more time with him, he said no!' Frasier adds

Ouch! 'Have you considered that he hates you?' Alan asks sarcastically

'Wish I knew. He's got a girlfriend I've never even heard of,' he says over footage of him meeting Eve. 'When I told him I wanted to spend more time with him, he said no!'

'Have you considered that he hates you?' Alan asks sarcastically.

Frasier won't be deterred, and he visits Freddy again to tell him, 'I miss you and I won't take no for an answer.'

Then Frasier is seen accepting a job offer in the psych department from Olivia, cementing his new life in Boston.

Meanwhile, Freddy complains to his girlfriend Eve about his father barging into his life, but she can only think of how 'good' he smells.

'Yeah, he smells really good,' Freddy agrees to a laugh from the audience.

Then Frasier reveals just how uptight he is when Freddy visits him at his new home and attempts to sit on his fancy sofa.

'Don't sit there!' his father screams, before informing him that he can't sit on the 'Christian Lacroix' pillows.

'So we can't sit on the couch?' Freddy clarifies.

'Not in jeans,' replies Frasier.

Not giving up: Frasier won't be deterred, and he visits Freddy again to tell him, 'I miss you and I won't take no for an answer'

It's official: Then Frasier is seen accepting a job offer in the psych department from Olivia, cementing his new life in Boston

Detour: Meanwhile, Freddy complains to his girlfriend Eve about his father barging into his life, but she can only think of how 'good' he smells. 'Yeah, he smells really good,' Freddy agrees to a laugh from the audience

Off limits: Then Frasier reveals just how uptight he is when Freddy visits him at his new home and attempts to sit on his fancy sofa. 'Don't sit there!' his father screams, before informing him that he can't sit on the 'Christian Lacroix' pillows

Disappointment: After a short montage, the trailer ends with Frasier proposing a toast with Freddy. He's delighted when his son suggests Scotch, but is disappointed to see that it's a cheap plastic bottle

Coming soon: Frasier returns with its new revival on Paramount+ on October 12

After a short montage, the trailer ends with Frasier proposing a toast with Freddy.

'I've got some Scotch if that sounds good,' Freddy says. 'Top shelf.'

'Of course! Nothing less,' Frasier replies, before his son clarifies that he meant the bottle was on the top shelf. His father then gazes at it with disgust after realizing it's a less fancy plastic jug.

Frasier returns with its new revival on Paramount+ on October 12 in the US and on October 13 in the UK and Ireland.
Advertisement

Former Baywatch bombshell Yasmine Bleeth made a rare sighting in Los Angeles, California while running errands with a friend on Thursday.

As she seemingly made an Amazon return at Whole Foods Market, the 55-year-old star was spotted carrying a BurgeonNest dog car seat into the grocery store, before emerging 'around 15 minutes later, without it.'

Later, she and her pal headed to The Original Farmer's Market, where they made a beeline to Charlie's Coffee Shop.

The actress ordered an iced coffee, although an onlooker told DailyMail.com that her friend 'ordered food' and the pair 'spent around an hour catching up.'

During their conversation, the eyewitness noted that 'Yasmine listened intently as her friend talked' and she was 'seemingly disgusted by something as she stuck her tongue out.'

Casual outing: Former Baywatch bombshell Yasmine Bleeth made a rare sighting in Los Angeles, California while running errands with a friend on Thursday

Busy: As she seemingly made an Amazon return at Whole Foods Market, the 55-year-old star was spotted carrying a BurgeonNest dog car seat into the grocery store, before emerging around 15 minutes later, without it

Running errands: Later, she and her pal headed to The Original Farmer's Market, where they headed to Charlie's Coffee Shop

For their laid-back outing, Bleeth sported a light-wash denim jumpsuit with a pink t-shirt layered underneath.

She completed her casual ensemble with a white tote bag, beige Birkenstock and her hair in a low ponytail.

Since quitting acting 20 year ago, the New York native is rarely seen in public.

Bleeth played the glamorous lifeguard Caroline Holden on 72 episodes of Baywatch, which made her and her co-stars household names, including Pamela Anderson, David Hasselhoff, Carmen Elektra, Nicole Eggert and Michael Newman.

But she battled personal demons off camera, including a cocaine addiction that landed her in rehab in 2000.

Nearly one year later, she was arrested after driving into the median of a highway in Michigan. Authorities found syringes with injectable cocaine in her car.

A search of her nearby hotel room led police to find even more cocaine and drug paraphernalia.

She's been candid about her battle with drugs and in a 2003 article for Glamour wrote that 'consciously trying to stay off drugs is now part of my life and always will be.'

Out and about: The actress ordered just an iced coffee, although an onlooker told DailyMail.com that her friend 'ordered food' and 'spent around an hour catching up'

Good pals: During their conversation, the eyewitness noted that 'Yasmine listened intently as her friend talked, seemingly disgusted by something as she stuck her tongue out'

Since quitting acting 20 year ago, the New York native is rarely seen in public

Known for: Bleeth played the glamorous lifeguard Caroline Holden on 72 episodes of Baywatch, which made her and her co-stars household names, including Pamela Anderson, David Hasselhoff, Carmen Elektra, Nicole Eggert and Michael Newman

Past struggles: But she battled personal demons off camera, including a cocaine addiction that landed her in rehab in 2000

She's been candid about her battle with drugs and in a 2003 article for Glamour wrote that 'consciously trying to stay off drugs is now part of my life and always will be'

Fate: While in rehab, she met her current husband Paul Cerrito

She said of her relationship, 'They say you shouldn't get into any relationship in the first year of sobriety - especially with someone in the program, but Paul and I fell in love immediately'

The pair do not have children and celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary in August

She has also been romantically linked to former Friends star Matthew Perry, Police Academy actor Steve Guttenberg and her Baywatch colleague David Charvet

Before quitting acting, she starred in a host of television movies in the late '90s and later took her talents to the silver screen with roles in Heaven or Vegas, Coming Soon and Undercover Angel

Glamarous: Bleeth seen on Baywatch, which she appeared on from 1993 to 1997

While in rehab, she met her current husband Paul Cerrito.

She said of her relationship, 'They say you shouldn't get into any relationship in the first year of sobriety - especially with someone in the program, but Paul and I fell in love immediately.'

The pair do not have children and celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary in August.

She has also been romantically linked to former Friends star Matthew Perry, Police Academy actor Steve Guttenberg and her Baywatch colleague David Charvet.

Before quitting acting, she starred in a host of television movies in the late '90s and later took her talents to the silver screen with roles in Heaven or Vegas, Coming Soon and Undercover Angel.
Kylie Jenner put her flat midriff on display during an outing in LA on Wednesday.

The mom of two, 26, donned a black crop top with matching low-cut trousers as she headed to a business meeting in Studio City, California.

The entrepreneur chose a short-sleeved high-neck top, paired with her flared hem pants, adding a large Bottega Veneta bag in the same color over her shoulder.

The dark haired beauty carried a coordinating reusable water bottle as she pounded the pavement in pointed stilleto boots.

Her work outing comes just three days after she packed on the PDA with her boyfriend actor Timothee Chalamet, 27.

Looking amazing: Kylie Jenner put her flat midriff on display during an outing in LA on Wednesday

Effortless chic: The mom of two, 26, donned a black crop top with matching low-cut trousers as she headed to a business meeting in Studio City, California

Figure: The entrepreneur chose a short-sleeved high-neck top, paired with her flared hem pants, adding a large Bottega Veneta bag in the same color over her shoulder

Curvy: The Kardashians star added a slim watch, a delicate ring and earrings to round out her sleek, minimalistic look

Kylie wore her raven hued locks back with a claw clip, adding futuristic sunglasses.

The Kardashians star added a slim watch, a delicate ring and earrings to round out her sleek, minimalistic look.

Kylie even coordinated her outfit with her water bottle, opting for a reusable black one.

Following her meeting, Kylie was seen heading back to her Range Rover.

Her business meeting outing comes just three days after she packed on the PDA with boyfriend Timothee Chalamet.

Busy lady: The dark haired beauty carried a coordinating reusable water bottle as she pounded the pavement in pointed stilleto boots

LA girl: Kylie wore her raven hued locks back with a claw clip, adding futuristic sunglasses

Boss: Following her meeting, Kylie was seen heading back to her Range Rover

Lovebirds: Her work outing comes just three days after she packed on the PDA with her boyfriend actor Timothee Chalamet , 27; seen together on September 10, 2023 at the US Open in New York City

Kylie wore blue jeans and a black T-shirt, wearing her locks pulled back into a claw clip.

Timothee wore a gray tee with a zippered black hoodie and sunglasses, adding a silver necklace.

The couple shared several passionate kisses from their seat, while sitting very close to each other.

Kylie sipped on her drink as Timothee had a protective arm around her shoulders; the Dune actor occasionally moved his hand lower to her upper back.

The couple also enjoyed a snack together and even snapped photos with a good old-fashioned camera.

Kylie and Timothee giggled and chatted privately during their animated attendance at the US Open; at one point they both had their hands around each other's shoulders.

Kylie also playfully ruffled his long hair in another sweet moment between the lovebirds.

Close: Kylie wore blue jeans and a black T-shirt, wearing her locks pulled back into a claw clip

Quick bite: The couple also enjoyed a snack together and even snapped photos with a good old-fashioned camera

Happy: Kylie sipped on her drink as Timothee had a protective arm around her shoulders; the Dune actor occasionally moved his hand lower to her upper back

In sync: Kylie and Timothee giggled and chatted privately during their animated attendance at the US Open; at one point they both had their hands around each other's shoulders

Their first public sighting came on Monday, September 4 at Beyonce's last LA concert - which took place at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA.

The couple made their public debut in the VIP section of the concert - with the stars kissing and cuddling, making it no secret of their red-hot romance.

The couple had been quietly dating since early April, which was first revealed by celebrity gossip account DeuxMoi.

A tipster had revealed that they were dating: ''Anon pls!! Multiple sources have told me Timmy C has a new girl... Kylie Jenner.'

Kylie and Timothee are said to have sparked up a romance after they both attended the Jean-Paul Gaultier fashion show on January 25, 2023.

In mid-April, after news broke of their coupling, Kylie's Range Rover was seen in Timothee's driveway of his Beverly Hills home.

Her SUV drove straight up the Wonka star's windy driveway, according to TMZ.

One day later, Timothee jumped into Kylie's SUV after he attended an art show in Santa Monica, with her security guard jumping into his car and driving it, per TMZ.

They arrived at Tito's Tacos in LA and her security team went and picked up food for them and brought it to the car.

That same month, People's source reported that the stars were 'hanging out and getting to know each other with another insider revealing that they 'hang out every week' but it's 'not serious.'

'She is getting to know him. Kylie is having fun. After years of back and forth with Travis [Scott], she just wants to date without any pressure,' their source said.

They were never seen together publicly until the Beyonce concert.

A false rumor circulated in early August that the actor had 'dumped' her; TMZ confirmed they were still together and that the rumor was not true.

Still an item: Kylie Jenner and Timothee Chalamet are still in a relationship, despite rumors of a possible split

In love: In mid-April, after news broke of their coupling, Kylie's Range Rover was seen in Timothee's driveway of his Beverly Hills home

The way they met: Kylie and Timothee are said to have sparked up a romance after they both attended the Jean-Paul Gaultier fashion show on January 25, 2023; seen at the Jean-Paul Gaultier show in Paris on January 25, 2023

Here he is: Timothee also seen January 25, 2023 in Paris at the Jean-Paul Gaultier show - where their romance sparked

Kylie shares two children with ex-partner Travis Scott: daughter Stormi, five, and Aire, one.

They started dating in 2017, welcoming Stormi in the following year.

The couple split in October 2019 but reunited in February 2020, before split again during the holidays in December 2022.

Timothee has been linked to Lily-Rose Depp, Eiza Gonzalez and Lourdes Leon.
Hayden Christensen has finally been seen in Star wars: Ahsoka.

The 42-year-old actor showed up in episode five called Shadow Warrior on Tuesday and made quite the impression.

The star was seen in his dark outfit with high boots and light saber in his belt, his hair on the long side as he has been slightly de-aged.

He comes face to face with Jedi Ahsoka Tabo, played by Rosario Dawson, while in the World Between Worlds. That is a place where all times converge into one.

Christensen has a storied past in the Star Wars universe, portraying the role of Anakin Skywalker in 2002's Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones and 2005's Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith.

In the past few years, he has contributed to 2019's Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker and the 2022 miniseries Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Star Wars: Ahsoka is streaming new episodes Tuesday nights on Disney+.

He's back! Hayden Christensen has finally been seen in Ahsoka. The 42-year-old actor showed up in episode five called Shadow Warrior on Tuesday and made quite the impression

Still scary: The star was seen in his dark outfit with high boots, his hair on the long side as he has been slightly de-aged

The battle is on: He comes face to face with Ahsoka Tabo, played by Rosario Dawson, while in the World Between Worlds. That is a place where all times converge into one

In a clip shared to Instagram on Thursday, Anakin has plenty of air time.

Though Hayden is now 42, he looks about 30 in the video as the de-aging process was successful.

Anakin was Ahsoka's Jedi mentor at one time, long before he turned into the menacing Darth Vader.

Anakin begins with, 'I didn't expect to see you so soon.'

Ahsoka looks terrified as she very slowly turns to see Anakin then raises her chin trying to prove she is not afraid.

'I am here to finish your training,' he says calmly.

The moment is tense. 'As Jedi it is our job to lead,' continues Anakin. 'I know you can do this Ahsoka.'

Later he says, 'Come on Snips! The Battle is not over yet.'

And then he adds, 'Don't be afraid, and trusts your instincts.'

The two use their lightsabers to go head to head in battle with Ahsoka looking worried to take on her master.

Spooky: Dawson's Ahsoka looks scared as Anakin pops up and says hello

His work: Christensen has a storied past in the Star Wars universe, portraying the role of Anakin Skywalker in 2002's Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones, 2005's Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith. In the past few years, he's contributed to 2019's Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker and the 2022 miniseries Obi-Wan Kenobi

This comes after Christensen was seen in mid-August in a teaser.

The actor was heard in a voiceover showing Ahsoka in battle.

'In this war, you will face more than just droids,' Christensen is heard saying in the clip.

'As your master, it is my responsibility to prepare you.

'I won't always be there to look out for you. Don't be afraid. Trust your instincts. I know you can do this, Ahsoka.'

The teaser also features a showdown between Ahsoka and Sith Baylan Skoll (played by the late Ray Stevenson), as they are seen sparring with lightsabers.

Darth Vader, seen in the preview for Ahsoka, is the fateful character Anakin morphs into and one of the most prominent in the blockbuster sci-fi anthology. Star Wars: Ahsoka is streaming new episodes Tuesday nights on Disney+

'Everyone in the Order knew Anakin Skywalker - few would live to see what he became,' Baylan Skoll is seen telling Ahsoka ahead of a showdown.

In another sequence, Ahsoka is seen saying of Anakin, 'Before the end of the Clone Wars, I walked away from him - and the Jedi.'

The timeline of the series - which also features Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Wes Chatham and Lars Mikkelsen - is set after the Empire's destruction, showing Ahsoka probing 'an emerging threat to a vulnerable galaxy,' according to Disney+.

Dawson's Ahsoka character has past been featured in The Mandalorian in 2020 and The Book of Boba Fett in 2022.

Ahsoka is seen brandishing a lightsaber in the preview for the miniseries

The teaser also features a showdown between Ahsoka and Sith Baylan Skoll (the late Ray Stevenson), as they are seen sparring with lightsabers

The timeline of the series is set after the Empire's destruction, according to Disney+

The Ahsoka character was initially introduced in the 2008 animated movie Star Wars: The Clone Wars as an apprentice learning from Anakin.

Actress Ashley Eckstein, the wife of former MLB player David Eckstein, has provided the voice of the character across multiple animated projects.

On Thursday, new stand-alone posters for the Star Wars spinoff Ahsoka made a debut.

And there was a surprise in the mix.

The fifth episode has seen the live-action debut of iconic characters from Star Wars: The Clone Wars.

A young live-action version of the Clone Wars era Anakin Skywalker was seen in all black in the one sheet.

He didn't look a ton like Hayden, but that is because he is supposed to appear more boyish.

Also revealed was a young version of the Clone Wars era Ahsoka.

The Clone Wars era is explored in flashbacks on Ahsoka.

Anakin: New stand-alone posters for the Star Wars spinoff Ahsoka made a debut on Thursday. And there was a surprise in the mix. The fifth episode has seen the live-action debut of iconic characters from Star Wars: The Clone Wars. A young live-action version of the Clone Wars era Anakin Skywalker, who turned into Darth Vader, was seen in all black in the one sheet
Advertisement

Al Pacino and girlfriend Noor Alfallah were seen enjoying date night after she filed for full physical custody of their three-month-old son with the actor, Roman.

Just weeks after a spokesperson for Pacino insisted 'they are still together' and denied separation rumors, the 83-year-old Oscar winner and partner, who have been dating since April 2022, proved they were still going strong as they arrived to A.O.C restaurant in Beverly Hills.

For the evening outing, Pacino and Alfallah seemingly color-coordinated in black ensembles for a rare few hours away from their newborn.

The producer, best known for working on the 2019 short film La Petite Mort and 2018 TV short Brosa Nostra, wore a black maxi dress, heeled boots and a Chanel handbag.

Still going strong: Al Pacino and girlfriend Noor Alfallah were seen enjoying date night after she filed for full physical custody of their three-month-old son with the actor, Roman

As they exited the upscale eatery, Alfallah lovingly held onto her man's arm as they walked back to their car.

Their latest sighting came after fueling speculation that they broke up after it was reported that Noor had filed a petition to determine parental rights of their infant son.

However, the Scarface alum's representative furiously denied the rumors to DailyMail.com, stating that they did 'not split' and have 'mutually reached an agreement regarding their son.'

'Al and Noor have successfully worked together and have mutually reached agreements regarding their child Roman,' they said. 'They are together. They havent split.'

It still remains unclear why Noor filed the court documents regarding their son in the first place.

According to the legal documents, Noor asked for full physical custody of their infant son, but said she wanted the 83-year-old star to have 'reasonable visitation.'

She said in the docs that she was willing to grant Al joint legal custody of the baby, which would give him a say on matters related to education, religion, medical treatment and more.

It's not known when the documents were filed, however, their son's age is listed as three months old in the papers, suggesting they were submitted very recently.

Date night: Just weeks after a spokesperson for Pacino insisted 'they are still together' and denied separation rumors, the 83-year-old Oscar winner and partner, who have been dating since April 2022, proved they were still going strong as they arrived to A.O.C restaurant in Beverly Hills

Linking arms: For the evening outing, Pacino and Alfallah seemingly color-coordinated in black ensembles for a rare few hours away from their newborn

In her legal filing, Noor inserted a document titled 'voluntary declaration of parentage,' which both she and Al had signed six days after they welcomed Roman and acknowledged Al's paternity of the child.

She requested that the movie legend pay for her lawyer fees or any other case-related costs. A specific amount of child support was not stated in the court filing.

The legal docs stated that 'the court may make orders for support of the children and issue an earnings assignment without further notice to either party.'

It was expected that the judge in the case would state an amount based on what Noor asked for in forthcoming hearings, and there was no evidence to indicate that Pacino was opposed to any of the requests.

Al is also a father to three other children with two different women: he shares 22-year-old twins Olivia Pacino and Anton James Pacino with Beverly D'Angelo, as well as daughter Julie Pacino, 33, with Jan Tarrant.

Before she started dating Al, Noor was previously linked to Rolling Stones icon Mick Jagger, 80, and billionaire Nicolas Berggruen, 62.

Parenting: Their latest sighting came after fueling speculation that they broke up after it was reported that Noor had filed a petition to determine parental rights of their infant son; seen in August 2023

She was seen out with Tinseltown icon Clint Eastwood, 93, in 2019, but said they were just family friends.

The year before, she was also spotted hanging out with Inglorious Bastards actor Eli Roth, 51, but it's unclear if they ever dated.

Noor's 54-year age gap with Al 'doesn't seem to be a problem,' a source told Page Six back in April 2022, when they first got together.

They added that the Kuwaiti-American producer 'mostly dates very rich older men' and 'moves with the wealthy jet-set crowd, and she comes from a family with money.'

Noor is a native of Beverly Hills and attended the UCLA School of Film and Television, later pursuing a career as a producer.

Prior to Roman's birth in June, mystery surrounded the circumstances of her pregnancy - after claims emerged that the actor had demanded a pre-natal DNA test and that he had been 'hoodwinked' by the 29-year-old.

At the time, TMZ reported that Al did not believe the child was his because he had medical issues that would 'commonly prevent a man from impregnating a woman.'

A source told the outlet that the 'shocked' actor had demanded Noor take a prenatal DNA test to ensure the baby was his.

The insider added that she didn't tell him she was expecting until months into the pregnancy.

They said she ultimately agreed to get the DNA test, and it confirmed he is indeed the father.

Planning: However, the Scarface alum's representative furiously denied the rumors to DailyMail.com, stating that they did 'not split' and have 'mutually reached an agreement regarding their son'

Al also shares 22-year-old twins Olivia Pacino and Anton James Pacino with Beverly D'Angelo, as well as daughter Julie Pacino, 33, with Jan Tarrant. He's seen with his kids in 2020

Sources also told Showbiz11 that Al thought their relationship was over a 'long time ago,' while describing the situation as a 'mess.'

However, someone close to the couple slammed suggestions that the pregnancy news was anything but blissful to DailyMail.com days later, stating that while Al was 'surprised' over the news, he 'could not be happier' about the impending arrival.

They also claimed that he and Noor are still very much 'in love,' despite their 54-year age gap, and that he had not been kept in the dark about the baby news.

'She's wanted to have a baby for years and Al could not be happier. He loves Noor and the feeling is mutual,' said the insider.

They said the baby was conceived naturally and that Al is 'still very able.' They also addressed accusations that Noor is a 'gold digger,' calling the claims 'complete and utter bulls**t.'

'Not only does Noor come from an extremely wealthy family, but she has also worked to obtain her own wealth,' they continued.

In early June, Al himself shut down rumors that he was upset about the pregnancy, while gushing about how 'special' it was that he was expecting his fourth child.

'It's very special,' he told photographers while out for a walk in LA. 'It always has been. I've got many kids. But this is really special coming at this time.'
Angelina Pivarnick is on a mission to find her birth father on Thursday's episode of The Jersey Shore: Family Vacation.

In an exclusive clip obtained by the DailyMail, the 37-year-old reality star enlists the help of her co-star, Mike Sorrentino, 41, to track down her biological dad.

'I remember you saying that you'd like to find out who your real dad is,' Mike tells Angelina in the clip.

She agrees, with Mike joking, 'I got a lot of resources in the streets.'

Asking Mike, 'Do you think you're going to find him?' Mike replies, 'I think Vincent [his assistant] and I have the resolve and determination to see this thing through.'

Woman on a mission: Angelina Pivarnick sets out on a mission to find her real father on the latest episode of Jersey Shore: Family Vacation

Brother figure: Mike offers to help Angelina help find her real biological father on the latest episode of Jersey Shore: Family Vacation after expressing concern about her following the results of Angelina's DNA test

The episode, which airs tonight on MTV at 7 p.m. ET, follows the jaw-dropping reveal from last week where Angelina took a DNA test and discovered she wasn't biologically related to her father.

She admitted in a confessional when the DNA results came back that she was, 'devastated.'

Mike grew concerned for his friend after she made an emotional post on social media with the caption, 'What is in the dark always come to light eventually.'

When he went to go discuss the DNA test results with Angelina, he asked her how she felt about the news.

Processing the explosive revelation in another confessional, Angelina emotionally exclaimed, 'To find out the guy that I thought was my father is not my father, it's f***ing hurtful. It's very hurtful. I don't really trust people anymore.'

The raven haired beauty also noted for good measure that, 'Blindsided was an understatement,' regarding the news.

Feeling a bit more calm in the exclusive clip from tonight's episode, the Couples Therapy star says in another confessional that she would like to know her biological father's real identity.

'At this point I'm going to take all the help I can get with finding my real dad,' she declares.

Appearing to be more determined than ever, Angelina added, 'Because I know my real dad is out there somewhere.'

Sleuthing like Sherlock: Angelina's Jersey Shore: Family Vacation co-star tells her he'll use his connections to see if he can track down her real dad

Resolute and ready: After initially feeling 'blindsided' by the news that the man she thought was her father wasn't her actual biological father, Angelina declares in an exclusive teaser clip from tonight's episode that she wants to find her real dad

Feeling betrayed: Last week, Angelina struggled to cope with the shocking news that her father wasn't actually her biological dad

Finding a father: After an emotional catharsis when the DNA test results were revealed, Angelina appears to be resolved to find her real father once and for all

Reassuring Angelina in the clip from the latest episode, Mike assures her that his search will be handled with the utmost seriousness.

'It's not going to be a joke, it's not going to be disrespectful,' the Worst Cooks In America contestant stated.

Giving Angelina his word, Mike vows to do everything he can to help her find her real dad.

Jersey Shore: Family Vacation airs Thursdays on MTV at 8 p.m. ET.
Advertisement

Natalie Portman looked stunning during a shoot on the beach in Spain on Wednesday.

The Oscar-winning actress, 42, modeled a sheer, flowing red dress with a plunging neckline as she frolicked barefoot in the sand while shooting a new campaign for Dior.

While surrounded by production crew and filming, the Black Swan star  who looked downcast as she stepped out without her wedding in Paris two days before  ran along the shore.

At one point, Portman had jumped into the water for the shoot and emerged to wrap herself up in a white robe.

For the shoot, she looked radiant as she rocked a minimal makeup look and messy beach waves.

Mesmerizing: Natalie Portman looked stunning during a shoot on the beach in Spain on Wednesday

Campaign model: For the shoot, she looked radiant as she rocked a minimal makeup look and messy beach waves

During the shoot, she was seen beaming widely as she ran along the beach and splashed around in the water.

Amid her busy schedule, Portman has been facing problems in her 11-year marriage to Benjamin Millepied due to cheating allegations.

Last month, it was reported that the French producer, 46, had an alleged affair with climate change activist Camille Etienne and, as a result, the pair are speculated to be headed for separation.

Since then, both Portman and Millepied have been spotted without their wedding rings as they continue to co-parent their two children.

The longtime couple share son Aleph, 12, and daughter Amalia, six.

Earlier this month, they reunited in the French capital and were spotted taking a stroll with their two kids.

The pair looked tense but appeared to be putting on a united front amid swirling rumors about their marriage woes.

Back in June, a French outlet called Voici shared an explosive report that claimed Benjamin had an affair with a 25-year-old climate activist named Camille Etienne.

Frolicking on the beach: While surrounded by production crew and filming, the Black Swan star  who looked downcast as she stepped out without her wedding in Paris two days before  ran along the shore

Making a splash: At one point, Portman had jumped into the water for the shoot

Beaming: She splashed around joyously in the water. Throughout the shoot, she looked ethereal as she beamed and played around on the beach

Mid-shoot: The star appeared to be waiting for her next cue while standing in the water

Toes in the sand: Portman stood barefoot on the shore and held up her stunning sheer dress

Stunning scene: At one point, she was waist-deep in the water and turned back dramatically. After getting the shot, she turned around smiling proudly

People reported at the time that his romance with Etienne was 'short-lived' and is now 'over'.

A source also told the outlet that Millepied was 'doing all he could' to get 'Natalie to forgive him and keep their family together'.

The insider also revealed: 'He knows he made an enormous mistake and he is doing all he can to get Natalie to forgive him and keep their family together.'

The source also said that Portman is continuing to be 'incredibly private' as she 'has no intention of playing this out in the media'.

'Her biggest priority is protecting her children and their privacy,' she added.

The pair first met on set of Black Swan in 2019 and immediately Portman knew he was 'the person' for her.

Millepied was recruited to choreograph the film and train Portman to dance ballet.

By the time filming wrapped, the pair had fallen in love and started dating.

Enjoying herself: At a different time, she was spotted having fun with the production crew during another action shot

Getting ready: Later, they went back to the water to film another take. She looked to be getting ready before running back into the water

Strolling in the sand: She was also seen strolling through the sand with the production team at her side

Elegant: During the shoot, she modeled just the elegant dress and nothing else to showcase her natural beauty

Quick touch-up: After getting out of the water, she quickly fixed her now-dripping wet hair.

Keeping busy: She looked hard at work and keeping busy amid her marriage woes

Another shot: She was seen walking back to the water still in the now-wet dress multiple times to film the scene again

From the back: The beautiful designer dress clung to her figure

Running: She was seen sprinting to the water, at one point, with her hair and dress flowing wildly behind her

Wrapped up: After shooting in the water, she emerged and bundled up in a white robe

A year later, Portman and Millepied had gotten engaged and were also expecting their first child together.

They welcomed their first child  son Aleph  in 2011. Shortly after, they tied the knot in an intimate wedding ceremony in California.

Six years later, they welcomed their daughter Amalia.

Their relationship plunged into despair when news broke of his alleged extramarital affair.
Drew Barrymore has come under increasing fire over her plans to restart her daytime talk show without her three unionized writers amid the ongoing Writers Guild Of America strike.

And now one of the co-head writers for The Drew Barrymore Show, Cristina Kinon, is lending her voice to the discourse over her famous boss' conduct.

Kinon, who has worked on the popular talk show since its first season in 2020, was diplomatic while speaking about Barrymore's decision to resume taping amid the strike in an interview with The Daily Beast.

However, she argued that the Never Been Kissed star could have done more to help television industry workers impacted by the strikes than simply restarting the show, and Kinon said that returning to the air would only 'prolong the strike.' DailyMail.com has reached out to a representative for Barrymore for comment.

The television writer spoke out after Barrymore faced twin public relations crises last week.

Blasted: Drew Barrymore, 48, was criticized by The Drew Barrymore Show's co-head writer Cristina Kinon on Thursday in an interview with The Daily Beast for resuming her show without writers amid the ongoing WGA strike; seen in May 2022 in NYC

Speaking out: Kinon said Barrymore's choice to tape without official writers would only 'prolong' the strike, as writers are deadlocked in negotiations with studios and streamers for better compensation and guarantees that they won't be replaced by AI writing; seen August 10 in LA

The actress was lambasted on Monday after two audience guests claimed that they were ejected from the set because they wore pins showing solidarity with the WGA.

Barrymore more bad news on Tuesday when the National Book Foundation, which puts on the prestigious National Book Awards ceremony, rescinded its invitation to her to host its November 15 awards ceremony over her decision to tape a supposedly writer-less version of The Drew Barrymore Show.

The Drew Barrymore Show has been taping since earlier this week, and the shows are set to air beginning on September 18.

Kinon began with words of praise for the host over her decision to drop out of hosting live segments on the MTV Movie & TV Awards in May in solidarity with striking writers, though disjointed pre-taped segments she had already completed for the show were still broadcast.

'We were really proud of that decision,' Kinon said. But it was also that decision that made it so shocking to learn that Barrymore wanted to bring back her show without her union-represented writers.

'I personally understand that everybody has to make the best decision for themselves,' Kinon said carefully. 'I know that this show has a crew of hundreds of people who need to be paid, and I understand the perspective of wanting to protect your cast, your crew, and your staff.'

Although Kinon suggested Barrymore was bringing back the show to help pay crew members who had been left out of work as the WGA (and SAG-AFTRA) continue to negotiate with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) for better wages, more robust residuals and protections against AI writing and acting, Barrymore didn't include that as a reason in an Instagram post announcing the return.

She left her reasons vague, and wrote that she hoped to 'bring us together' and to 'help us make sense of the human experience.'

Kinon added that the WGA's thousands of members are striking in solidarity with other unions currently fighting for better working conditions.

She said members are 'standing with all of labor and all of the unions across the world, because that is how it works,' adding that 'Unions only work when you stick together with unions across the labor spectrum.'

More harm than good: Kinon praised Barrymore's earlier decision to drop out as host of the MTV Movie & TV Awards, but she feared bringing the talk show back would only prolong the pain for striking writers and other workers left out of work; seen August 10 in LA

Making her case: The host declared 'I own this choice' on her Instagram page on Sunday, and that the show 'will be in compliance with not discussing or promoting film and television that is struck of any kind'

Sacrifices: Former co-head writer Jordan Carlos said Barrymore's actions weren't an 'adequate repayment of [writers'] time and services' after they were asked to work on set in the early days of the pandemic, before vaccines were even available; seen in April in NYC

In the same piece, WGA East council member Sasha Stewart wondered why Barrymore couldn't have tried a different approach, such as starting a podcast like the late night hosts Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers and John Oliver, who host the Strike Force Five podcast while their shows are shut down.

She also suggested that the 50 First Dates star could have timed her show's hiatus to delay the premiere in hopes that the strike would have been resolved by then, or the deep-pocketed star could have tried to compensate her show workers from her own fortune.

'There were other options to support or staff without having to throw part of it (i.e. her writers) under the bus,' Stewart said.

Although Barrymore claimed to be in compliance with the WGA in her announcement, the Writers Guild of America has said that the show is covered because it has previously used Guild writers, therefore it is a struck production and WGA members will picket tapings going forward.

Kinon was most critical when she opined that the E.T. star bringing the show back would only make the strike last longer, as it would help to put money in studio pockets, fortifying them as they hold out amid negotiations with the WGA.

'Now, there's word that maybe some other shows are coming back,' Kinon said, referencing reports that a bevy of other talk shows plan to following Barrymore's lead and to return without writers, including Real Time With Bill Maher, The Kelly Clarkson Show, The Jennifer Hudson Show, Sherri and The Talk.

'So it is frustrating, because it will prolong the strike, and we just want it to end.'

SAG-AFTRA, which represents film and television actors, has confirmed that Barrymore is not violating its strike rules.

The Daily Beast noted that Barrymore may still try to skirt WGA rules by having someone on staff come up with topics and narratives for upcoming shows, even if the writers aren't officially on set, meaning that someone taking care of writing will likely cross the picket line.

Former co-head writer Jordan Carlos contrasted Barrymore's return with the sacrifices he and other writers made in the early days of the show, when they were asked to work in person on set at the height of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, even before vaccines had been developed.

'I don't think this is an adequate repayment of their time and services,' he said.

Kinon noted that the ongoing strike is important not just to her and the other Drew Barrymore Show writers, but also to other writers on talk shows and variety programs, who are under the negotiating category of 'Appendix A.'

Public relations nightmare: Barrymore faced other controversies this week. On Monday, two audience members claimed they were booted for wearing WGA pins. Then on Tuesday, audience members claimed that their WGA pins were confiscated by the show's security

Kicked out: On Tuesday, Barrymore's invitation to host the National Book Awards was rescinded over her attempt to tape without union writers

She said the AMPTP has proposed paying writers on Appendix A shows less, and treating the job like gig work rather than full-fledged television writing.

'I dont see how what I do is different from writing for a scripted show, or writing feature filmswhich I also do,' Kinon said. 'We're all trying to make a career out of writing, and the AMPTP is trying to slowly chip away at that. And they wouldn't have anything without writers; writers are the seed of all of creation.'

Kinon concluded her remarks by noting that she 'would love to see the show stand in solidarity with us, and its not too late.'

As for the other shows rushing to follow Barrymore's footsteps and resuming taping amid the ongoing strike, she said she hoped they would reevalutae 'where they stand and stand in solidarity with the WGA.'
She's the model mother-of-three who married her husband Evan Spiegel in 2017.

And on Friday, Miranda Kerr revealed how she keeps the spark alive with her beau-of-six-years.

The Australian Supermodel, 40, told the Herald Sun, the couple keep their romance alive by going on weekly dates.

'My husband is growing his business, I'm growing my business, luckily we're both homebodies, so we really enjoy being with our family at home, spending time together,' she said.

'It's important to take that time together leading such busy lives as it is, with the kids and with our businesses, it's important to have time for the two of us as well.'

Miranda Kerr revealed how she keeps the spark alive with her Snapchat billionaire husband Evan Spiegel

'I make sure we do date night once a week.'

Miranda and Evan first met at a Louis Vuitton event in 2014.

They were officially dating by 2015 and they got engaged the following year before tying the knot in May 2017.

'It was lovely to find someone who appreciated my kind heart and joyful spirit,' she said of her partner in LVR magazine.

Miranda and Evan, the founder of social media app Snapchat, share two sons: Hart, and Myles, three.

The Australian Supermodel, 40, told the Herald Sun, the couple keep their romance alive by going on weekly dates

She also shares son Flynn, 12, with ex-husband Orlando Bloom.

Miranda recently announced she was expecting her fourth child on Snapchat with a series of sweet images that clearly showcased her growing baby bump.

She was previously married to Hollywood actor Orlando, whom she started dating back in 2007.

They married just a month after getting engaged in June 2010, but announced in October 2013 they were getting divorced.
Advertisement

Kanye West and his 'wife' Bianca Censori are showing no signs of ending their months-long European vacation anytime soon, which has been filled with controversy thanks to her revealing outfits and their outrageous public antics.

The odd couple  who have been holidaying in Italy throughout August and into September  were pictured standing in line at a popular kebab shop in Berlin, Germany on Thursday, with Bianca wearing yet another eyebrow-raising ensemble.

Kanye, 46, who also goes by 'Ye,' had his face covered balaclava-style with a piece of black fabric, while Bianca, believed to be 28, showed off her large cleavage in a Spanx-assisted garment, as they stood in line with the general public for the roasted meat treat.

The Yeezy architect paired her flesh-colored ensemble with closed-toed, see-through heels. Her short, dark locks were parted to the side and combed to barely brush the tips of her shoulders.

Censori opted to wear only dainty, silver ear cuffs on the left side to allow her revealing outfit to be the main focal point as she explored the city with the performer.

EXCLUSIVE: Kanye West and Bianca Censori chow down on KEBABS while sitting on a park bench in Berlin after waiting in line for food - as his 'wife' continues to wear nude outfit in public (and she finally cracks a smile!)

She also easily slung a large, black bag over her shoulder to hold items she needed during the daytime excursion.

Kanye continued to sport an all-black ensemble - similar to what he had been wearing while in Italy - and once again chose to wear a pair of black socks rather than comfortable shoes.

At one point, Bianca even smiled to photographers as they waited patiently in line among passers-by who seemed to take no notice of her striking outfit.

Later the pair, who were accompanied by a team member, sat on a public bench to chow down on their lunch from Mustafa's Gemuse Kebap - a well-known spot for hearty chicken kebabs in Germany's capital city.

The stall, located on a main street in southern Kreuberg, is known to 'draw a line of both tourists and locals at all hours of the day' and has served as Berlin's most popular kebab shop since 2006, according to Insider.

Due to the fact the kebab stall is regularly recommended as a place to visit when in the area, it appears the rapper and his wife couldn't resist trying out the famous chicken durum wrap, with the accompanying vegetables and sauces.

The couple sparked controversy earlier this month when they were spotted enjoying an amorous moment on a water taxi in Venice, with West exposing his bare buttocks in front of gawking tourists.

Images of the couple showed the American rapper seated at the back of the river taxi while his Australian so-called bride placed her head in his lap.

Venezia Turismo Motoscafi, the company that rented the boat to West and Censori, have since spoken exclusively to Daily Mail Australia and confirmed the couple are 'no longer welcome' aboard their boats.

In its statement the company condemned the pair's bawdy activity, while confirming it was 'completely unaware' what occurred on the boat the photos were made public.

That's put a smile on her face! Kanye's 'wife' Bianca appeared to be delighted to grab some lunch from Mustafa's Gemuse Kebap - a popular spot for hearty chicken kebabs in Germany's capital city

Nothing to see here: Kanye and Bianca were pictured standing in line for a kebab order while on holiday in Berlin, Germany

Taking a look: The couple were spotted looking through a phone that West held in his hands as they patiently waited in the long line

Getaway: Bianca showed off her large cleavage in a Spanx-assisted garment, as they stood in line with the general public for the roasted meat treat

'On board, the driver had to keep a lookout for traffic and did not see these obscenities. If this had happened, he would have immediately disembarked and reported the transgressors to those in authority.'

'In addition, there was a third person on board the taxi, who accompanied Mr. and Mrs. West, who obstructed the captain's view to the stern in any case.'

The third person was a woman who has been pictured chaperoning West and Censori during their Italian holiday.

The company went on to denounce the couple's explicit display, saying: 'We completely dissociate ourselves from such acts and behavior.

'Mr. West and his wife will certainly no longer be welcome on board our company's boats,' they added.

Venezia Turismo Motoscafi is one of Venice's leading private navigation companies, boasting an impressive array of celebrity clientele, including Lady Gaga, Harry Styles, Florence Pugh, Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck.

A Venice police source has also told MailOnline.com, 'There are standards of public decorum that have to be followed by tourists and locals alike and any breaches are severely punished.'

'The images of West with his trousers down while in a taxi as he and his partner crossed the lagoon were seen all over the globe.'

Standing in line: Passers by appeared to unfazed by the odd couple despite their bizarre attire - with Kanye wearing a balaclava-style cloth around his head

Refreshing: After giving a rare smile, Bianca was seen quenching her thirst with a watermelon juice box

Make a wish: Kanye's lady was seen blowing a dandelion while waiting in line for lunch

Busy trip: The couple previously enjoyed a scandalous getaway in Italy from August through September before heading to Germany

'You could clearly see his trousers were half down and we have received complaints from people who witnessed it. Now we have identified the driver of the boat and we will be asking him what he saw as well,' the source continued.

'The images show the couple clearly in a state of intimacy and if the local prosecutor decides to press charges then we will notify the couple, most probably through the relevant embassies.'

'The offence being investigated is acts contrary to public decency which is punishable by an administrative sanction.'

The water taxi incident was not the first incident that has frustrated locals, with Censori donning various revealing ensembles during the trip.

She recently was spotted wearing a pair of fitted, nude-colored leggings as well as high heels. However, in place of a top, she could be seen holding a purple pillow to her chest on a public outing with West.

Pictured: Mustafa's Gemuse Kebap is a popular spot among tourists and locals for hearty chicken kebabs in Germany's capital city

Worth a smile: Bianca appeared be looking forward to her lunch as she stood by Kanye's side

Same style: Bianca appears to be wearing very similar clothes on their months long trip

Sharing is caring: At one point, Bianca gave her juice box to Kanye for a quick sip

Rapper's delight: Kanye is seen slumped on the street as he waited in line for the popular snack

Happy at last: Bianca was almost unrecognizable with a smile (if it wasn't for her unmistakable outfit)

Body language expert, Judi James, told DailyMail.com earlier this month after analyzing their interactions that Kanye is 'dominating and controlling' Bianca.

'Either these two are creating some bizarre form of performance art in a bid to gain attention and publicity or this is Kanye doing what looks like an extreme version of what he has been accused of before - dominating his partner and controlling her wardrobe choices,' she expressed.

In June, the couple traveled to Tokyo and James explained that at the time, Censori's 'smile was wide and her eye expression looked excited.'

'She even sat slightly in front of Kanye and closer to the camera, whereas recently she has been seen walking behind him, making him look like the leader and the one in control.'

Despite their rather scandalous stay in Italy, the couple appeared to be in good spirits as they enjoyed time in Germany.

'Controlling': Body language expert, Judi James, told DailyMail.com earlier this month after analyzing their interactions that Kanye is 'dominating and controlling' Bianca

Passing the time: Bianca was seen blowing on what appeared to be a dandelion as she stood next to the Heartless rapper

Making a statement: The Yeezy architect paired her flesh-colored ensemble with closed-toed, see-through heels

Enjoying the weather: Bianca was also accompanied by a mysterious woman and the pair were seen briefly stepping out into the warm sunshine

Rest time: While Bianca stood in the lengthy food line, West was seen taking a seat on the sidewalk to stay in the shade

Observation: In June, the couple traveled to Tokyo and James explained that at the time, Censori's 'smile was wide and her eye expression looked excited'

However, a friend close to Bianca recently expressed worry and informed DailyMail.com that she, 'is stuck and her friends are trying to save her, but no one can because of the blockades Kayne has put up [around her].'

'Everyone is extremely concerned. This isn't who she is. She is an incredibly outspoken and lively person who is never one to keep her mouth shut. But she has no one right now and it is scary,' the source continued.

The insider mentioned the singer's ex-wife, Kim Kardashian, and how he allegedly influenced her fashion choices during their relationship. The former couple's divorce was finalized late last year in November 2022.

'Kanye is trying to make Bianca into a radicalized version of Kim - almost like Kim 2.0. The difference is that when Kim was with Kanye he was respected in the fashion world. He has since lost this respect.'
Stranger Things fans have been left on tenterhooks by a terrifying clue after Netflix released a new teaser for its fifth and final season.

Although it has been delayed by ongoing writers strikes, the show's devoted fanbase remains thirsty for new hints.

And earlier on Tuesday the official Netflix account dropped a new teaser on X, sending fans in overdrive as they appear to have spotted a curious sign.

The short clip shows a messy rubble on the floor of the Starcourt Mall, which was the main location for its third season.

But the biggest hint was the sign of the famous Scoop Ahoy - the ice cream shop where Steve (Joe Keery) and Robin (Maya Hawke) worked together, laying among the debris.

Thrilling: Stranger Things fans have been left on the hook by a terrifying clue as Netflix released a new teaser for the upcoming - and last - season 5

Clue: On Tuesday the official Netflix account has dropped a new teaser on X, sending fans in overdrive as they appear to have spotted a dreadful sign

Another clue that can be seen among the ruins is the white board that Robin often used in the third season, showing that her friend 'sucked'.

The Stranger Things official account shared the tweet: 'Excuse our mess...'

Fans were left screaming as they quickly tried to crack the enigma and spot any hidden clues.

And viewers of the hit sci-fi thriller show were quick to come up with any sort of conjecture.

The first hint mentioned were the flashing lights in the broken Scoops Ahoy ice-cream parlor sign - suggesting Morse code could play a part in the new series.

It wouldn't be the first time, considering lights played a crucial role in the runaway show, as a mean to communicate between the real world and the terrifying upside down.

As more viewers wondered if that could be a message, someone wrote that meant 'RUN' in morse code.

It's still unsure if the teaser had or not a hidden clue about the last season, but it became clear the ice cream shop certainly plays a role.

Can you spot it? But the biggest hint was the sign of the famous Scoop Ahoy - the ice cream shop where Steve (Joe Keery) and Robin (Maya Hawke) worked together, laying among the debris

Guess: Fans were left screaming as they quickly tried to crack the enigma and spot any hidden clues

Fans were quick to comment below the tweet, almost begging for more hints on what the brief clip meant, but this time it seemed like the Netflix account had their fun replying to fans.

One person wrote: 'What's happening?? Give us something,' as the account ironically replied: 'One scoop or two?'

'You can't just post this and leave, please explain,' another user commented.

'Listen im still here slinging ice cream,' the Netflix account replied.

Another fan penned: 'Can I get a scoop of steve and a scoop of robin???? AND A SCOOP OF WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON HERE.'

Yet, there is still a lot we do know about the upcoming season, including the largely returning cast, with one big addition - Terminator star Linda Hamilton.

Duffer brothers Matt and Ross said in February 2022 that in the story's inception 'we predicted the story would last four or five seasons.

Long wait: Filming for Stranger Things season 5 was meant to begin in June 2023, but was held up by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike

'It proved too large to tell in four, butas you'll soon see for yourselveswe are now hurtling toward our finale.

'Season 4 will be the penultimate season; season 5 will be the last.'

Filming for Stranger Things season 5 was meant to begin in June 2023, but was held up by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike.

Producers Matt and Ros tweeted: 'Duffers here. Writing does not stop when filming begins.

'While we're excited to start production with our amazing cast and crew, it is not possible during this strike.

'We hope a fair deal is reached soon so we can all get back to work. Until then -- over and out. #wgastrong.'

That delay to filming will likely mean that any hypothetical release date is pushed back, although none has been set yet.

An optimistic expectation for the release would be anytime before 2025.

Another element of unknown is the format of the release - in parts or one go.

The first three seasons were released in their entirety on the same day, whereas season 4 consisted of two volumes, with seven and two episodes respectively.
Amber Heard did not give Elon Musk permission to share a cosplay photo of her dressed as the video game character Mercy from Overwatch.

The Tesla billionaire, 52, dated actress Heard, 37, seven years ago - and she commissioned a cosplay outfit to be made after Musk said she reminded him of Mercy, his new biography has revealed.

He then posted the photo of his ex-girlfriend dressed in the outfit to his 156 million followers on X on Wednesday and it has been viewed more than 16 million times.

But Heard did not give Musk permission to share the intimate snap, according to Page Six.

A source said the actress 'did not give permission to Elon to use the photo' and it was meant to stay 'private.'

Amber Heard did not give Elon Musk permission to share a cosplay photo of her dressed as the video game character Mercy from Overwatch

Musk told his girlfriend she reminded him of Mercy, his favorite character in the video game Overwatch - at which point she commissioned a cosplay outfit to be made for her

Heard is said to be annoyed as 'Elon asked her several times to speak to Walter' for the biography, which 'she did  out of respect for Elon'.

Musk's new biography titled 'Elon Musk,' revealed: 'He told her that she reminded him of Mercy, his favorite character in the video game Overwatch.

'So she spent two months designing and commissioning a head-to-toe costume so she could role-play for him.'

Responding to a tweet about the incident in the book, Musk confirmed: 'She did dress up as Mercy. It was awesome.'

He then shared a photo of her in the outfit. In the snap, Heard glared down the camera while donning the white costume, halo, wings, and suspenders.

To transform into the video character, she donned her iconic white-blocked bodysuit and gold halo headpiece. She also has mechanical wings attached to her back that Heard would have needed to play the character in good faith.

Known for her blonde hair and prominent bust, a Mercy outfit would have needed some stiff corset boning as well as a dark-colored neckpiece.

It comes after it was revealed that Elon Musk's family despised Heard because they thought she was 'toxic' and a 'nightmare.'

Musk's brother Kimbal and the entrepreneur's friends hated the Aquaman star 'with a passion' because she brought so much drama into his life during their year-long relationship.

Pictured: Mercy, the character from Overwatch

Elon Musk's family despised Heard because they thought she was 'toxic' and a 'nightmare'

According to Musk's senior staff, Heard was 'like the Joker in Batman' who 'thrives on destabilizing everything.'

Walter Isaacson's biography of Musk, describes the relationship as a 'dark vortex' that was the most painful relationship the Tesla founder has ever been in.

'It was brutal,' Musk says of his time with Heard, adding that the breakup led to the 'most concentrated period of pain' he had ever endured.

'Elon Musk', sheds new light on Heard, whose stormy marriage to Johnny Depp led to a televised civil trial in Virginia and ended with a jury awarding him $15 million in damages for defamation.

In the book, Isaacson writes that Musk, 52, who has 11 children by three different women, was 'not bred for domestic tranquility.'

The book says: 'Most of his relationships involve psychological turmoil.

'The most agonizing of them all was with the actress Amber Heard who drew him into a dark vortex that lasted more than a year and produced deep-seated pain that lingers to this day.

'It was brutal', the author writes.

Their affair started after she made the movie Machete Kills in 2012 and he agreed to be a consultant. The film was about an inventor who wants to create a society on an orbiting space station.

Heard says in the book: 'I guess I could be called a geek for someone who can also be called a hot chick,' she jokes. Musk took her for a Tesla ride and Heard 'decided he looked attractive for a rocket engineer.'

Their next meeting was in line for the Met Gala in New York May 2016. Heard was about to divorce Depp and found Musk was a 'breath of fresh air.'

A few weeks later Musk came to visit Heard in Miami, where she was working. He flew her up to Cape Canaveral, where a Falcon 9 launch was scheduled.

Heard 'thought it was the most interesting date she had been on', the book claims.

According to Musk's senior staff, Heard was 'like the Joker in Batman' who 'thrives on destabilizing everything'

For Musk's birthday that June, she gave him a surprise visit to the Tesla factory in California by flying in from Italy where she was working.

Heard 'hid in the back of a Tesla and popped out' when Musk came by.

Their relationship 'deepened' in 2017 when he flew to see her in Australia while she was filming Aquaman.

The book says: 'Her playfulness, however, was accompanied by the type of turmoil that attracted Musk.

'His brother and friends hated her with a passion that made their distaste for Justine (Musk's first wife) pale.

'She was just so toxic', Kimbal says. 'A nightmare'. Musk's chief of staff Sam Teller compares her to a comic-book villain.

'She and Musk would stay up all night fighting and then he would not be able to get up until the afternoon.'

They broke up in July 2017 but got back together for another five 'tumultuous months.'

The end finally came after a 'wild' trip to Rio de Janeiro in December 2017 with Kimbal, his wife and some of the kids.

The book says: 'When they got to the hotel, Elon and Amber had another of their flamethrower fights.

'She locked herself in the room and started yelling she was afraid she would be attacked and that Elon had taken her passport.'
Delta Air Lines has prompted backlash by announcing plans to cap the number of entries to its lounges and tighten the qualifying criteria for customers to earn frequent flyer status.

From February 1, 2025, travelers will have their access to the Atlanta-based airline's swanky Delta Sky Clubs cut to as little as six visits a year.

Those who book a basic economy ticket will no longer be allowed into the lounge at all from January 1, 2024 - even if they hold an American Express Platinum card or any other premium credit card.

From early 2025, American Express Platinum and Platinum Business cardholders will only be able to visit the Delta lounge six times a year to enjoy access to free meals and drinks and a space to relax before their flight.

Delta Reserve and Delta Business Reserve customers will be limited to 10 visits a year, the company announced.

From February 1, 2025, travelers with premium American Express cards will have their access to the airline's Delta Sky Clubs cut to as little as six visits a year

Those who book a basic economy ticket will no longer be allowed into the lounge at all from January 1, 2024

But if customers spend $75,000 on any of the cards within a single calendar year, they can unlock unlimited access.

The Platinum Card has become the most popular American Express product - despite its whopping $695 yearly fee - with access to lounges as one of its key perks.

Without the card, the Sky Club has only been available to those traveling business or first class or those willing to pay a $695 yearly lounge membership fee.

Upset customers have flocked to social media to share their outrage at the plans, with one user describing it as the 'biggest middle finger yet.'

'I've been loyal to this brand for a decade now. And they've flushed my loyalty down the toilet,' they wrote on Reddit.

Other travelers said they would be switching to other airlines as a result of the changes - and furious American Express platinum credit card holders are threatening a boycott.

'They're slashing status boost and lounge access, leaving us with little reason to carry a Delta-branded card. American Express should expect a mass exodus in 2024,' another user wrote on X.

'Been a Delta platinum medallion member, delta credit platinum card holder and Amex platinum card holder for years,' another wrote.

'After eviscerating the program, there's no need to be any of those things anymore. Hey @united what's up?'

In a statement, Delta said the plans were meant to simplify the program and offer new ways for customers to qualify for frequent flyer status.

It comes following issues with overcrowding at lounges at Delta's main travel hubs in Atlanta, Georgia and New York City's JFK airport.

The airline is positioned to open a second Sky Club at JFK's Terminal 4 as lines to access the spaces have become a common occurrence.

Alongside the lounge cutbacks, from next year, it will be more difficult to qualify for the airline's Medallion rewards program.

The announcement comes following issues with overcrowding and queues to enter lounges

From next year, it will also be more difficult to qualify for Delta's Medallion rewards program

In order to achieve the highest 'Diamond' status, customers will have to earn $35,000 in Medallion Qualifying Dollars (MQD), which can be built up through spending on Delta credit cards and booking car rentals or hotels through the airline.

Formerly, passengers have been able to build up their points based on the number of miles they fly, but from 2024 their status will be based purely on how much money they spend with the airline.

Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business American Express card members earn 1 MQD for every $10 spent, while Delta SkyMiles Platinum and Platinum Business American Express Card Members earn 1 MQD on every $20.
New York City's red-hot rental market appears to have reached breaking point as rents in Manhattan plateaued in August after climbing to record highs earlier in the year.

Median rent remained at a record $4,400 a month - the same as the month prior but still 7.3 percent up on August 2022, according to appraiser Miller Samuel Inc. and brokerage Douglas Elliman Real Estate.

It is almost double the median US rent which Zillow estimates is currently $2,094 per month.

The number of new leases signed on Manhattan rentals was down 14 percent on last year to just over 5,000. August is normally one of the most competitive months of the year for rentals, as people settle into new homes after summer and ahead of the academic year.

Median rent in Manhattan remained at a record $4,400 a month, which was the same as the month prior but still 7.3 percent up on August 2022

August is normally one of the most competitive months of the year for rentals in New York City. Pictured is the facade of an NYC apartment building

Jonathan Miller, president of Miller Samuel which compiles the monthly report, suggested that the market could be 'topping out'.

'We're still at or very near all-time highs, but we're continuing to see new leasing activity fall,' he told Bloomberg. He said that the drop on leasing activity could be attributed to the fact that many tenants were now choosing to renew their leases instead of re-entering the market.

While the market is cooling, Miller said drastic price reductions were not expected in the foreseeable future. 'No one is expecting a rent correction unless we have some severe economic event,' he said.

The median rent on a new lease in Brooklyn went down for the first time since February to $3,850. While again the number of new leases fell from last year, one-bedroom apartments took the greatest hit, down 45 percent since last August.

In Manhattan the decrease in new rentals affected studio apartments the most and three-bedrooms the least

Studio apartments were the least detrimentally affected, down 30 percent. They also experienced the largest price hike from last year, the median up from $2,795 to $3,215.

By contrast, in Manhattan the decrease in new rentals affected studio apartments the most and three-bedrooms the least. They were only down by 4 percent on August 2022.

The median rent in Northwest Queens increased to its highest-ever level of $3,900 the number of new leases was still down to nearly 50 percent on last year.

New York's cooling market comes as developers are eyeing up old office buildings in response to the shortage of living spaces.
It will be a single gala but you practically do not need a letter of introduction. Next October 19, Spain will once again enjoy the mythical Un, dos, tres... from the hand of its creator's son, Alejandro Ibanez, and the streamerTheGrefG. It will be through Twitch and little by little details of a format born with the aim of "bringing families together again" are being revealed.

"This One, Two, Three... we are going to do it in four hours live when before it was recorded in a week. And what Twitch allows is for the failure to be part of the show. It is a new way of making television," explained the son of Chicho Ibanez Serrador at the presentation of the format at the FesTVal in Vitoria. "I've finally been able to sit down with my daughters and have something in common to talk about," he added.

The first pair of contestants will be made up of the streamerGemita (1.6M), who will compete alongside Lluna Clark (270k). Luzu (2.9M) will be the third contestant, and her companion and third couple will be announced in the coming weeks. In addition, One, Two, Three brings back the twins Fernanda and Teresa Hurtado, the legendary tightwads, who will have another member yet to be revealed.

The program will bring back the flight attendants, but this time it will also include flight attendants. The first two names that have been revealed are the influencers Nadia Vilaplana (5.3M) and Abril Cols (4.2M). They will be accompanied by three other TikTok content creators: Unai Liarte (1.9M), Andrea Palazon (3.5M) and Nestor Seller (865k). The sixth and last member of the cast will be chosen through a casting that will be announced soon on the Un, Dos, Tres networks.

The auction will feature talents such as the magician Jandro, and will bring back the beloved mascot Ruperta, with a change of look that brings her closer to the streamers.
Three works by the Austrian artist Egon Schiele claimed by the heirs of their former owner, a Jewish collector and artist who was a victim of the Nazis, were seized by American justice in major museums in the United States, Agence France has learned. Press (AFP), Thursday September 14, from a judicial source, confirming information from the New York Times.

In seizure orders dated Tuesday, and of which AFP was aware, the Supreme Court of the State of New York considers that "there are reasonable grounds to believe" that these drawings by the Austrian expressionist artist " are stolen and illegally detained.

Russian Prisoner of War (1916), a watercolor and pencil on paper worth $1.25 million, was seized from the Art Institute of Chicago. Portrait of a Man (1917), a pencil-on-paper drawing worth $1 million, was seized from the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, while Girl with Black Hair (1911), a watercolor and pencil on paper, worth $1.5 million, was seized from the Allen Memorial Art Museum at Oberlin University (Ohio). The orders specify that works may remain on site for a period of sixty days.

The work Russian Prisoner of War remains in our custody at the museum at this time, the Chicago museum said. We are convinced that we have legally acquired this work and that we legally possess it, added the museum, saying it wanted to defend itself in the context of civil litigation [opened] in federal court.

Death at Dachau

Ownership of the works is claimed by the heirs of Fritz Grunbaum, an Austrian Jewish cabaret artist, great art collector and critic of the Nazi regime, who died in the Dachau concentration camp in 1941.

According to the New York Times, the current investigation concerns a dozen works by Schiele looted by the Nazis. The heirs of Fritz Grunbaum have been taking legal action for years to recover works that belonged to him. They rely on the fact that he signed an official document for the benefit of the Nazi regime in 1938, while he was a prisoner in Dachau. The American justice system ruled against them in 2005, considering that they acted too late, but they won their case regarding two works in 2018. Meanwhile, in 2016, the American Congress adopted a law extending the deadline to request the return of a work.

The subject remains current in other countries. In France, Parliament adopted a framework law in July to facilitate the restitution by public collections of cultural property stolen from Jews under Nazi Germany.

According to figures published at an international conference in the Czech Republic in 2009, 100,000 works out of 650,000 stolen had still not been returned at the time.
A crucial meeting for Gerald Darmanin. The Minister of the Interior is going to Corsica on Wednesday September 13 and Thursday September 14, where his position on possible autonomy for the island is eagerly awaited by the nationalists, even if the mayors also hope for progress on water, waste and town planning.

Seven months after his last visit, Gerald Darmanin must meet, from 4:30 p.m., with the autonomist president of the executive Gilles Simeoni, before participating, in Ajaccio, in a general assembly of the island's mayors.

We expect a lot from this visit, explains to Agence France-Presse the president of the association of mayors of Haute-Corse, Ange-Pierre Vivoni, who is banking on the same program as the meeting which was planned in October 2022 and which had not taken place, that is to say talking about water, sanitation, household waste and town planning, and of course autonomy.

But the question of autonomy is not a major question for mayors, he added, recalling that 80% of mayors do not have a label in Corsica and 95% of municipalities have union lists mixing right-wing, left-wing and nationalist elected officials, who all have a different opinion on the subject.

However, the subject should be omnipresent on Wednesday evening during the minister's dinner with the presidents of political groups of the Corsican Assembly. Thursday morning, he will have breakfast with the mayor of Ajaccio, Stephane Sbraggia before meeting Gilles Simeoni at 9:30 a.m. for a second interview.

At the beginning of September, Gilles Simeoni admitted during a meeting of his party Femu a Corsica that he did not know what the State wanted to move towards in terms of constitutional revision concerning the island, while estimating that "the moments that are coming will to be one of the most important in Corsican history.

This trip comes as the Corsican Assembly failed at the beginning of July to agree on a single autonomy project for this island of 340,000 inhabitants bringing together the entire political spectrum. At the end of two days of extraordinary session, the elected islanders had in fact transmitted to the government and to President Emmanuel Macron two projects, one from the quasi-united nationalists and the other from the right-wing opposition.

At the end of February, during the resumption of discussions on the institutional future of the island, which had been stopped for six months, Emmanuel Macron reiterated his readiness to include possible developments in his constitutional reform project, at the expense of the Corsican elected officials and the Ministry of the Interior to present a proposal [] before July 14.

He also recalled his red lines: maintaining Corsica in the Republic and refusing to create two categories of citizens. The nationalists' text, adopted by the Corsican Assembly where they occupy 46 of the 63 seats, calls for "legal recognition of the Corsican people", "a status of co-officiality of the Corsican language" and recognition of the "link between Corsican people and their land via a resident status.

This text takes up the main lines of Gilles Simeoni's report on his vision of autonomy for Corsica, namely that of legislative power in all areas for the Corsican Assembly, except those relating to sovereign powers. The second text, from the right-wing minority opposition, calls for a simple power of adaptation of French laws to Corsican specificities, without autonomous management of education and health and without transfer of taxation.

For Ange-Pierre Vivoni, on autonomy, if there are declarations, it will be the President of the Republic who will make them. A president whom the mayors have invited to go to Corsica, like his predecessors, for the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the island and who could make the trip at the end of the month, according to several sources close to the matter.

The fatal attack in prison on March 2, 2022, of independence activist Yvan Colonna, who was serving a life sentence for the assassination of prefect Erignac in 1998 in Ajaccio, had triggered violent demonstrations in Corsica. These clashes culminated in riots on March 13 in Bastia with 102 injured, including 77 among the police.

Sent to Corsica by the president-candidate Macron to calm the situation, the Minister of the Interior had opened the possibility of discussions which could go as far as autonomy.
More than 100 paper mills are expected to come under the energy efficiency scheme Perform Achieve and Trade (PAT) by next year as players are adopting technology to reduce their energy footprint, an industry body said on Wednesday.

The paper industry has reduced its specific energy consumption by 20 per cent in the last five years, the Indian Paper Manufacturers Association (IPMA) said in a statement.

Integrated paper mills in India are generating over 40 per cent of the power consumption by utilising the biomass from the pulping process, the IPMA said.

More than 100 paper mills are expected to come under the ambit of the PAT scheme in the next one year, IPMA Vice President Vadiraj Kulkarni said in his address at Paper Tech 2023.

Specific water and energy consumption is being reduced continuously to lessen the carbon footprint, he added.

IPMA said it has welcomed the governments Carbon Credit Trading Scheme 2023 under which an Indian Carbon Market would be constituted.

The existing PAT Scheme would be subsumed under the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, with both widening and deepening of sectors covered, in the next 2-3 years.

This will be an important step towards the country achieving net-zero in GHG emissions.

Under the PAT, energy savings certificates are issued to plants that achieve their targets. These certificates can be traded on Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) and Power Exchange India Limited (PXIL).
Indian oil companies are exploring the possibility of using close to USD 600 million of their dividend income stranded in Russia to buy oil from that country, officials said on Thursday.

Indias top four oil companies  Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), a unit of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd, Oil India Ltd and ONGC Videsh Ltd  havent been able to repatriate dividend income they accrue from their investments in Russian oil and gas fields. That money is lying in their bank accounts in Russia but could not be brought to India due to tough Western sanctions that followed Moscows invasion of Ukraine.

This is at a time when Russia has emerged as the top crude oil supplier to India, accounting for more than a third of all purchases New Delhi makes from overseas.

Officials said one of the options could be to loan the money lying in Russian bank accounts to entities buying oil. These entities could repay the loan in India.

The entities that buy oil from Russia include IOC and BPCL.

We are studying legal and financial implications of such a move, an official said. We are mindful of the sanctions and do not want to do anything that may in any way attract any breach.

Indian state oil firms have invested USD 5.46 billion in buying stakes in four different assets in Russia. These include a 49.9 per cent stake in the Vankorneft oil and gas field and another 29.9 per cent in the TAAS-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha fields. They get dividends on profits made by the operating consortium from selling oil and gas produced from the fields.

Soon after Russias invasion of Ukraine in February last year, several major Russian banks were banned from the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) financial transaction processing system, constricting Moscows ability to access the global payments system.

Also, the Russian government has put restrictions on the repatriation of dollars from that country to check volatility in foreign exchange rates.

This led to a situation of dividend money getting stranded in Russia. ONGC Videsh Ltd (OVL), the overseas arm of state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), holds a 26 per cent stake in Suzunskoye, Tagulskoye and Lodochnoye fields  collectively known as the Vankor cluster in the north-eastern part of the West Siberia.

Indian Oil Corp (IOC), Oil India Ltd (OIL) and Bharat PetroResources Ltd (a unit of Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd or BPCL) hold another 23.9 per cent in the same project. Russias Rosneft is the operator with 50.1 per cent interest.

The consortium of OIL, IOC and Bharat PetroResources has a 29.9 per cent stake in TAAS-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha.

Separately, OIL chairman and managing director Ranjit Rath said about USD 150 million of dividend income of OIL is lying in bank accounts in Russia.

The total for its consortium (IOC and BPRL included) is about USD 450 million, he said.
Power Finance Corporation (PFC) has been conferred with the prestigious Rajbhasha KirtiPuraskar (3rd Position)in the A category for the year 2022-23. This award endorses PFCs unwavering dedication to promoting the use of the official language and fostering linguistic diversity.

The award ceremony, a highlight of the Hindi Day celebration held on September 14, 2023, in Pune, Maharashtra, coincided with the Third All-India Official Language Conference.
US-based electric vehicle maker Tesla is looking to source components worth around USD 1.9 billion this year against USD 1 billion in the last year, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Wednesday.

The minister said that going forward, demand for electric vehicles will increase and it will help in pushing the growth of the sector.

Tesla already last year bought one billion dollars of components from I think all of you sitting here.... I have the list of companies who supply to Tesla. This year their target is nearly USD 1.7 billion or USD 1.9 billion what they mentioned, he said here at an annual session of ACMA.

When asked about foreign firms looking to invest in India as part of their China plus one strategy, Goyal said that global companies are coming to India because of its attractiveness.

I totally debunk and reject the China plus one theory. Thats not what is going to drive India...India of today stands on its own feet. The India of today has offerings for the rest of the world... Both for investment and trade, he said.

Goyal added that India provides them good business environment, skills, managerial talent, a big market, and demand generated by 1.4 billion people.

Its a rules-based economy..., its a young democracy.....One of the fastest growing large economies. All of this makes it a compulsive investment destination.

Therefore companies around the world have gone beyond the China-plus-one story, they have gone beyond the ABC philosophy of anything but China, they have gone beyond friend-shoring or near-shoring and is looking at India as a trusted partner, he added..

The electric auto industry, as it grows worldwide, will see growth in India also, he said.

In many cases, for example in taxis, and public transport buses, India is already seeing electric vehicles becoming a very compulsive investment case..

...As we get large scale production ... We will start enjoying the fruits of economies of scale, will start enjoying the fruits of new technologies, innovation R&D coming into India, he said.
India has successfully included the developing industrial economies in the world agenda while positioning itself as an attractive manufacturing hub

India's G20 presidency presents an opportunity to strengthen the country's collaboration and economy. With the world's most powerful countries represented, the G20 forum provides a premier platform for international economic cooperation, accounting for 85% of global GDP and 75% of trade. The timing of the Presidency is ideal for India to exercise greater influence on global policies and the economic sector.

The Business 20 (B20) is a G20 dialogue forum that has conducted a year-long series of summits, which saw the participation of Indian and global industry leaders. One of the significant outcomes of the G20 is the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, A cost-effective cross-border ship-to-rail transit network that will connect India to the Arabian Gulf countries, the European Union and the USA, expected to translate into trade and investment opportunities for Indian businesses, supporting global expansion to counter Chinas Belt and Road Initiative(BRI).

India is making strides towards becoming a leading global manufacturing hub, but there is still room for improvement. Outsourcing has increased due to China's diversion of manufacturing and production to new locations. This has resulted in India becoming a preferred choice for companies seeking alternative manufacturing or sourcing bases. With Indo-US deals taking centre stage and other global corporations following suit, India's manufacturing sector has the potential to reach US$1 trillion by 2030, making it the fourth largest in the world. Currently, it is the fifth largest.

The manufacturing sector in India has made significant progress since the economy liberalised in the early 1990s. Initially, India was caught between capital-intensive countries like the US, Japan, and Europe, and labour-intensive countries like China. However, India has found its place through low-cost automation, which has enabled world-class quality and scale in some sectors such as automobiles and auto components. This was accomplished under the umbrella of Total Quality Management (TQM), which focused on quality, cost, delivery, safety, morale, and the environment.

India's economic growth relies heavily on industries such as automotive, engineering, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, and consumer durables, making manufacturing a crucial component of the country's progress. Not only does the manufacturing sector have the potential to boost economic growth, but it also can provide employment opportunities for a vast number of the country's young workforce. However, despite its potential, the manufacturing sector has only been contributing 13-17% of GDP over the past four decades. To achieve India's national target of increasing manufacturing's contribution to 25% of GDP by 2025, the sector must export goods worth US$ 1 trillion by 2030, which will help India become the third-largest economy.

Unfortunately, India's manufacturing sector has struggled to increase its share of global export of merchandise to 2%. Its share has remained below 2% since 1948, hovering between 1.5% and 1.8% between 2010 and 2022. China, on the other hand, has maintained a significant lead over India with a share of 10.3% to 13.8% in global export of merchandise since 2010. China's advantage in labour-intensive manufacturing at scale, backed by low labour costs and investment in trade-related infrastructure, has enabled it to move towards cutting-edge sectors like robotics and aerospace through the 'Made in China 2025' campaign.

China's export-oriented approach focused on industries with higher export potential and invested in skilling its labour force, allowing for easier technology absorption and movement up the global value chain. In contrast, India struggled to achieve the desired level of skilling, leading to export inefficiency. India's weak infrastructure, which only uses 3% of its GDP for infrastructure construction each year, is a significant flaw for the manufacturing sector. India's surface transportation systems cannot meet the expectations of modern high-speed logistics, which is crucial for efficient manufacturing.

The fusion of intelligent digital technologies into manufacturing and industrial processes, known as Industry 4.0, presents an exciting opportunity for a new industrial revolution. This includes industrial IoT networks, AI, Big Data, robotics and automation, additive manufacturing, simulation, system integration, cloud computing, and cyber-security. The objective is to enable autonomous decision-making in real-time, with the involvement of all stakeholders from the beginning.

The manufacturing industry is poised for growth, especially with the Make in India initiative at an inflexion point. To build a successful "Brand - Made in India," several things need to happen. The government should continue to build physical infrastructure and promote ease of doing business while also funding Industry 4.0 through start-ups. They should implement the NRF to attain leadership in technologies of national importance and build a future-ready workforce. The manufacturing sector needs an inspirational leader to drive Industry 4.0 as a movement until India becomes the third-largest manufacturing economy.

Manufacturing sector leaders should think globally and focus on all aspects of Total Quality Management, including quality, cost, delivery, safety, morale, and the environment. They should invest in R&D and innovation and build partnerships to de-risk. Creating and owning designs and intellectual property will be critical, as will investing deeply in Industry 4.0. Driving cultural change to embed it and build a sustainable footprint will be essential, as learning is a lifelong process and diversity enhances it.

The Way Forward: India's G20 presidency would position its manufacturing sector globally. With a government target of $500 billion in merchandise (Goods) exports for FY 2023-2024, the manufacturing sector must focus on the untapped export potential in existing tariff lines and support manufacturers

to fulfil the dream of India becoming the world's third-largest economy with 'Make in India' global reach.

As Prime Minister Narender Modi hands over the G20 presidency baton to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, it leaves behind a legacy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam- the world is one family, with fruitful dialogue, innovative solutions, and a strengthened commitment to shaping a prosperous and sustainable future.

(The Author is Vice-Chairman Sonalika Group, Vice-Chairman of the Punjab Economic Policy and Planning Board and Chairman of ASSOCHAM Northern Region Development Council. Views are personal)
India has underscored that no plan for the future of the planet Earth can be successful without the representation and recognition of all voices

The theme of the G20 summit under Indias Presidency was "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" or One Earth, One Family, One Future." It is derived from the ancient Sanskrit text, Maha Upanishad. The theme essentially implies the message of global unity and is a perfect call upon all the nations of the world in the prevailing times of geopolitical tensions, because the protection and preservation of our planet for future generations is a shared responsibility that needs to be given top priority.

The clarion call to ensure human-centric progress transcending borders, ideologies and identities, at G20 summit. Building bridges.The main highlights were:

lGreen Development, Climate Finance and LiFE or Lifestyle for Environment: signifies environmentally sustainable and responsible choices at individual, societal, national, regional and international levels.

Indias focus on sustainable agriculture, through enhanced usage of Shree Anna or millets-superfoods, has had a global reach as these need less water to grow and help small farmers augment their produce and incomes. These will help alleviate global hunger and malnutrition and also bring focus on the importance of climate-smart and digital approaches to agriculture.

lWomen-led Development- The focus was on bridging the gender digital divide, reducing gaps in labour force participation and enabling a larger role for women in positions of leadership and decision-making.

l Democratising Supply Chains, amid the lesson learnt during COVID-19, when the world became distressed for medicines and lifesaving drugs to more than 150 countries.

l With India having become the face of the digital revolution in the era of Industry 4.0", it called the G20 countries towards accelerated, inclusive and resilient growth, including ethical use of Artificial Intelligence. With a focus on Innovation and Inclusiveness, the G20 Summit focused on the fact that a connected world isn't just about connection through technology but it is also about shared purpose, planet, prosperity, and future.

The changing geopolitical landscape in the Middle East is to be closely watched as well. With most of the protagonists from the Middle East attending the Summit, for India, the G20 presidency offered a unique chance to assert its position as an important and responsible global power. In a deeply divided international system, India is in a very unique position. While the comprehensive India-US ties have grown stronger, it still maintains strong economic ties with Russia. Given the trust that India enjoys on both sides, the summit offered a chance for India to emerge as a possible mediator, especially in the Ukraine crisis.

Indias firm belief in the concept of decentralisation is also evident by the fact that by the time Indias G20 Presidency term ends, over 220 meetings would have happened across 60 cities in all 28 states and 8 union territories. Overall, the G20 under Indias Presidency has been tremendously impactful as the world has witnessed Indias human-centric model of development, its vision and implementation of equitable, inclusive and responsible innovation, all aligning to the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, and leaving no one behind. The G20 has emerged as the most influential bloc in the world, comprising 85 per cent of the global GDP,

India has underscored that no plan for the future of the planet Earth can be successful without the representation and recognition of all voices. India has strongly advocated the need to come out of a purely utilitarian worldview and embrace a Sarva Jana Hitaaya, Sarva Jana Sukhaaya (for the benefit of all and the happiness of all) model as espoused by Lord Gautam Buddha in the 6th century BC.

(The writer is CEO and Editorial Director, IMPRI Impact and Policy Research Institute, New Delhi; views are personal)
India's emergence in the domain of traditional medicine is characterised by its judicious policy initiatives, global collaborations and profound cultural influence

India, endowed with a rich cultural heritage and a diverse array of traditional medicine systems, possesses the potential to ascend as a frontrunner in the global traditional medicine healthcare sector. The Ministry of Ayush (MoA) has embarked upon a multitude of pivotal initiatives and measures aimed at fostering and nurturing various segments of traditional medicine within the nation. These endeavours are geared towards bolstering accessibility, affordability, and popularity, thus contributing to the holistic well-being of the populace.

Indias prepotency in the domain of the global traditional medicine healthcare sector can be attributed to the relentless, motivating and unflinching efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi geared towards the holistic well-being of the population across the globe. Be it the odyssey of glorious 9 years of International Day of Yoga which is continuing by becoming more encompassing every year, or the UNO declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets. Honble Prime Ministers vision of the traditional medicine healthcare sector imbibed in WHO-GCTM (Global Centre for Traditional Medicine), expressed in WHO-Global Summit on Traditional Medicine, forwarded in G20 Indias presidency 2023 as Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam, stressed upon in global sphere; to quote just a few, all drove India towards emerging as the champion of global well-being.

India's ascendancy as a global healthcare leader, particularly within the traditional medicine domain, is underscored by its strategic collaborations with the World Health Organization (WHO). Notable among these collaborations is the establishment of the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine last year in Jamnagar, Gujarat and the historic co-hosting of the first global summit on Traditional Medicine by India in Gandhinagar last month.

The collaboration between India and the WHO in establishing the Global Centre for Traditional Medicine underscores India's steadfast commitment to advocating and elevating traditional medicine on a world scale. The centre serves as a nucleus for research, training, and synergistic efforts within traditional medicine systems, with an emphasis on seamlessly integrating age-old practices into national healthcare frameworks.

The act of India hosting the pioneering summit on Traditional Medicine underscores its pioneering role in this realm. This summit provided a dynamic platform for international stakeholders to congregate, deliberate, and exchange insights regarding the role of traditional medicine in realizing universal health coverage, addressing healthcare challenges, and propagating wellness. India's proactive engagement in these spheres underscores its acknowledgement of traditional medicine as a holistic and valuable facet of healthcare. Notably, the collaborative event between India and WHO during the G20 Health MinistersMeeting further underscores India's unwavering commitment to Universal Health Coverage and the pivotal role of traditional medicine therein.

The trajectory of India's emergence as a global healthcare torchbearer, particularly within traditional medicine, is undoubtedly extraordinary and can be attributed to a convergence of factors. The establishment of a distinct Ministry for Ayush exemplifies India's resolute dedication to upholding traditional systems of medicine. This ministry has championed significant initiatives aimed at seamlessly intertwining traditional medicine with modern healthcare methodologies and advancing towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC). India's endeavours in the sphere of traditional medicine have been recognized and acknowledged on the global stage.

Discussions on traditional medicine have resonated within various international forums such as G20 events, SCO, BRICS, and ASEAN, highlighting India's pioneering stature in this realm. Through concerted collaborations with international entities such as WHO and the hosting of global summits, India showcases its unwavering commitment to disseminating its expertise, knowledge, and experiences in the realm of traditional medicine to the broader international community. These proactive initiatives not only underscore India's leadership within the healthcare spectrum but also contribute substantially to the holistic well-being of populations worldwide.

Complementing these endeavors, India has undertaken a series of dynamic global initiatives which includes 24 country-to-country MoUs, along with 46 Institute-level MoUs, establishing 15 Ayush Academic Chairs in foreign Institutes/Universities and establishing 38 Ayush Information Cells across 34 nations for the promotion and propagation of scientific Ayush systems across the globe.

Ministry of Ayush promotes global Ayush education through scholarships; 277 students from 32 countries pursue Ayush courses in India under the Ayush fellowship scheme, while 104 scholarships are offered to foreign nationals from 101 countries for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD courses in Ayush. Champion Services Sector Scheme has been introduced by the Ministry of Ayush for Medical Value Travel, which comprises three components viz., the establishment of Ayush Super Specialty Hospitals/Daycare Centers, skill development in Ayush, and the creation of the Ayush Grid. Ayush Export Promotion Council has also been established to champion Ayush products and services on the global stage.

In addition, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, has recently notified a unique Ayush (AY) visa category for foreign nationals seeking treatment under Ayush systems/Indian systems of medicine. This initiative will further strengthen our endeavour to accomplish the vision of making Indian traditional medicine a global phenomenon.

The International Day of Yoga has gained worldwide recognition through remarkable achievements, including setting two Guinness Book records during its inaugural celebration in 2015. Subsequent celebrations, like IDY-2022, introduced innovative concepts like 'The Guardian Ring of Yoga,' attracting a massive participation of approximately 22.13 Crore individuals.

India's traditional medicine sector has witnessed substantial expansion in market dimensions experiencing a remarkable sixfold increase over seven years. The surge in market proportions and heightened exports of Ayush and herbal medications underscore India's adeptness in both production and global promotion of these products. Ayush's significant contributions in the realms of education, research, public health, and seamless integration with modern medicine have set commendable benchmarks for traditional medicine. India's integrative approach permeates several sectors, most notably in public health.

India's strategic investments in research and innovation pertinent to traditional medicine have significantly contributed to its leadership position. Initiatives such as the establishment of Centers of Excellence and research endeavours investigating traditional medicine's role during the COVID-19 pandemic stand as resounding testimonials to India's steadfast commitment to advancing this field. Furthermore, India's resolute emphasis on biodiversity, as evidenced in the Prime Minister's Independence Day address, aligns seamlessly with the principles inherent in traditional medicine. The integration of local herbs and natural resources into healthcare solutions serves as a testament to India's unwavering commitment to sustainable and nature-aligned healthcare practices.

India's trajectory towards emerging as a global healthcare leader, particularly within the domain of traditional medicine, is characterized by its judicious policy initiatives, harmonious global collaborations, market expansion, integrated approaches, and profound cultural influence. Collectively, these endeavours unmistakably underscore India's unflinching dedication to furnishing accessible, affordable, and holistic healthcare solutions not only for its populace but for the global community at large.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in his 2022 Independence Day speech pointed this out and said, Today the world is talking about holistic health care. But when it talks about holistic health care, it looks towards Indias Yoga, Indias Ayurveda and Indias holistic lifestyle. This is our legacy that we are providing the world with. The world is being influenced by it today.

(The writer is secretary Ayush; views are personal)
New Delhi lived up to its image of being a warm hearted and inclusive nation

A lot seems to have been achieved in the past week, with India hosting one of the greatest and most spectacular multilateral diplomatic events, the G20 summit. While India, which is Bharat, managed to resonate with almost every citizen domestically by organising the summit in the length and vast expanse of its geography, internationally it also sent out a vociferous message that it is a power whose time has come.

Chinese President Xi stayed away from the G20 summit, a first for China, since the inception of the G20 leaders summit. It was a message to the world leaders, about Chinas monochrome view of geopolitics, where multilateralism is an afterthought. It didnt want to engage with the US president in New Delhi, and it didnt want to engage with India on critical bilateral issues and the military standoff, because it considers the forceful takeover of chunks of neighbouring nations sovereign territory as a path towards Chinese supremacy. China did send Xis junior Li Qiang to the summit, along with what Indian agencies suspect is surveillance equipment to one of the G20 delegation hotels in New Delhi. These conspiracy theories apart, the world leaders gathered at the Bharat Mandapam, in New Delhi, had a better plan to make Indias presidency a success.

They fully endorsed Indias appeal for the inclusion of a large chunk of humanity expressed through the African Union into the G20, signed on the need to Improve access to digital services and digital public infrastructure and leveraged digital transformation opportunities to boost sustainable and inclusive growth and finally came out with joint communique endorsed by all parties, a day before the closure of the summit. All this speaks a lot about the maturing Indian diplomacy, which worked for a gruelling 200 hours, constantly, redrafting texts, based on members' inputs and negotiating through sensitive topics for countries around the aisle, to finally produce a joint declaration, ahead of time.

Ukraine, the big deal breaker in the room, which had resulted in the chairs statement from all the ministerial running up to the Delhi summit was tactfully handled by these young, confident diplomats. The preamble from the Delhi declaration of G20 read Concerning the war in Ukraine, while recalling the discussion in Bali, we reiterated our national positions and resolutions adopted at the UN Security Council and the UN General Assembly and underscored that all states must act in a manner consistent with the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter in its entirety. The use or threat of use of nuclear weapons is inadmissible, thereby, accommodating almost everyones sensitivities. While staying in Ukraine, India did manage to echo its concerns along with Japan, Australia and many SE Asian countries by pushing the lines

India also managed to send a stern message to Canada, regarding secessionist groups supporting Khalistan operating from its sovereign territory, endorsed by a divine intervention of sorts, adding a twist to the narrative. The Canadian Prime minister received a strong message against the protests and free run of Khalistani groups running a propaganda war against India. The Indian PM also did not hold a bilateral meeting with his Canadian counterpart on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

The Delhi summit delivered on Bharats promise of a land of science and spirituality, and being the fourth country to land a spacecraft on the moon just a couple of weeks before the summit, helped. It would be important for Delhi to keep following up on the targets it has set for future G20 meetings as well.

(The writer is a policy analyst)
In a fervent escalation of the Sanatan Dharma controversy, the BJP on Wednesday criticised the Opposition INDIA alliance meeting, branding it as a gathering of the anti-Hindu coordination committee. This development comes in the wake of sharp criticism from DMK leaders regarding the Sanatan Dharma issue.

The BJP contends that it is now glaringly evident that, whether in Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, or Bihar, Opposition leaders are operating with a concerted effort to target the Hindu religion, consistently making disparaging remarks against it.

Union Minister Anurag Thakur lambasted the Opposition parties in advance of the INDIA bloc meeting, asserting, These faces (of INDIA alliance) are all known for corruption. Some of them are on bail and some have returned after serving time in jail... People know them all, changing the name (to INDIA) wont change their character, Thakur said.

The BJPs latest offensive coincides with the day when the coordination committee of the Opposition INDIA bloc is set to convene to deliberate on seat-sharing arrangements and devise a broad campaign strategy in preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra described the Opposition meeting aimed at strategising for the Lok Sabha polls as a gathering of anti-Hindu forces. At a press conference, he also launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, alleging that she authored a book titled Murder of Hinduism drawing parallels with Agatha Christies renowned suspense novel Murder of...

Patra, citing Sonia Gandhis Christian name Antonio Maino, further alleged that she has been instrumental in plotting against Hinduism. He pointed out that non-cooperation among INDIA group members is evident, downplaying the stated agenda of discussing seat-sharing arrangements. He insisted, They will discuss how to finish off the Hindu religion.

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackerays recent statement suggesting a potential Godhra-like incident if people travel to Ayodhya for the Ram temples inauguration was also brought into the fray. The BJP maintained that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had previously referenced the Islamic terror group Muslim Brotherhood to criticise Hindutva, and an RJD leader made derisive comments about Ramcharitmanas and individuals wearing tilak on their foreheads.

The BJP alleged that DMK leaders, with the Congress endorsement, were speaking against Sanatan Dharma to divert attention from the alleged misdeeds of the MK Stalin-led Government in Tamil Nadu, aiming to disrupt peace and harmony in the country.

Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy, the BJPs co-incharge for Tamil Nadu, contended that the DMK and the Congress were attempting to construct a negative narrative against the BJP due to the partys growing popularity in Tamil Nadu and recognition of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi Governments accomplishments.
The tentative agenda for the five-day Special Session of Parliament starting September 18 was unveiled on Wednesday night, with the Government listing a discussion on the Parliamentary journey of the past 75 years and the passage of five Bills in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, including the Bill on the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners.

The agenda was published in the bulletins of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. The documents stated on the first day, there will be a discussion in both the Houses on Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha.

The tentative legislative business for the Lok Sabha listed four Bills, including The Advocates (Amendment) Bill and the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill. The Bills listed for passing should not be taken as exhaustive, the bulletin said.

Earlier, amid speculation about the agenda of the Special Session of Parliament, the Government on Wednesday announced convening a meeting of the floor leaders of all political parties on September 17, a day before the start of a five-day session which is taking place a few months before the Lok Sabha elections, due early next year.

Reacting to the announcement, Congress chief spokesman Jairam Ramesh said the Modi Government announced the agenda for the special 5-day session of Parliament under pressure from Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhis letter to the Prime Minister. The agenda as published at the moment is much ado about nothing  all this could have waited till Winter Session in November. I am sure the legislative grenades are being kept up their sleeves to be unleashed at the last moment as usual. Regardless, the INDIA parties will steadfastly oppose the insidious CEC Bill, Ramesh, also a member of the Rajya Sabha, said.

Earlier in the day while announcing the all-party meeting, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi did not share any details as to what is on the table in the coming special session from September 18 to September 22.

The invitation for the meeting has been sent to all concerned leaders through email, Joshi posted on social media platform X.

On August 31, Joshi had announced a special session of Parliament for five days from September 18, but did not spell out any specific agenda for it.

Amid Amrit Kaal, looking forward to having fruitful discussions and debate in Parliament, Joshi had posted

on X.

The special session is to start in the old building on September 18 and will be later moved to the new building on September 19 on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi.

Earlier, speculation was rife on the session deliberating issues ranging  One Nation, One Election, changing countrys name to Bharat from India, women reservation issue, Uniform Civil Code or a surprise announcement on the Lok Sabha polls.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee had earlier claimed that the Government might advance the Lok Sabha poll and may be held along with elections to five State Assemblies, including that of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh.

Regarding the One Nation, One Election concept, the Government has already established a committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind to examine the feasibility of simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, legislative Assemblies, and Panchayats.

Opposition parties, caught off guard by the announcement of the special session, have criticised the Government for not revealing the sessions agenda, especially with just a few days remaining before its commencement.

On Wednesday, Opposition leaders voiced their concerns about the Special Session of Parliament, asserting that only a select few are privy to its agenda, leaving very little time for preparation.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh expressed his views on X, stating, Today is September 13. The five-day special session of Parliament will commence five days from now and nobody  barring One Man (ok, perhaps the Other One too)  has any sense of the agenda.

Ramesh also provided examples of previous occasions when special sessions or sittings were held, and the agenda was known well in advance.

For instance, he pointed out that on November 26, 2019, a special sitting in Central Hall was organised to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Constitution. He also highlighted the Joint Special Session in Central Hall on June 30, 2017, which marked the introduction of the GST.

Ramesh emphasised that transparency about the sessions agenda has been maintained in the past, citing instances such as November 26 and 27, 2015, when a special sitting was held to commemorate Constitution Day.
In order to avoid any confrontation and any differences, the three months old Opposition INDIA bloc on Wednesday completely avoided holding discussion on seat sharing in their first coordination meeting aiming to prepare for the Lok Sabha 2024 polls for which they have joined hands to take on the Modi juggernaut.

Sources said States like Maharashtra (NCP, Shiv Sena, Congress), Tamil Nadu (DMK, Congress), Bihar (JD(U), RJD, Congress, Left) have settled. But the India bloc is now facing challenge in negotiations for Delhi, Punjab with the Congress and the AAP at helms of affairs, and in West Bengal with the TMC, the Congress and the Left as stakeholders.

Sources said leaders of several Opposition parties have sought an early seat-sharing formula to be worked out to ensure that a joint Opposition candidate is put up against BJP candidates in Lok Sabha polls. However, several leaders said the parties have to shed their egos and vested interests in arriving at such a formula.

Before the meeting, NCP supremo Sharad Pawar said it is natural to understand that seat sharing cannot be discussed in a meeting of coordination members and it has to be among the party chiefs and top leaders.

However the coordination committee decided to hold their first joint public meeting in Bhopal in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh in the first week of October where issues related to rising prices, unemployment, corruption and caste census will be raised by the top leaders of the coalition.

The coordination committee also authorised the sub-group of media to decide upon the names of the television anchors on whose shows none of the INDIA parties will send their representatives.

Sources said the reason not to touch the sensitive seat-sharing subject was that TMC supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee  one of the main constituents  is on an official visit to Europe and TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee, who is member of the INDIA bloc coordination committee, is busy attending the summons by the Enforcement Directorate.

Twelve leaders of the 14-member panel were present in the meeting that took place under the shadow of a huge row over DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalins assault on Sanatan Dharma.

The meeting was held at the residence of NCP supremo Sharad Pawar in Delhi.

The leaders present at the meeting were: NCP chief Sharad Pawar, Congress KC Venugopal, Jharkhand Chief Minister and JMM leader Hemant Soren, CPIs D Raja, SPs Jawed Ali Khan, DMKs T R Baalu, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, AAP MP Raghav Chadha, JD(U)s Sanjay Jha, NC leader Omar Abdullah, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader Sanjay Raut.

The coordination committee decided to start the process of determining the seat sharing. It was decided that the member parties will hold the talks and decide (seat-sharing) at the earliest, said Congress general secretary KC Venugopal briefing the media through a joint statement.

CPI(M) leader Mohd Salim mocked the decision of the coordination committee to keep a chair empty at its meeting since Abhishek, who was to represent the party, was summoned by the ED on the same day.

Salim said the paduka (footwear) of Abhishek could have been kept, when told by reporters that Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader Sanjay Raut said a chair was kept empty at coordination committee meeting to mark the absence of the TMC MP. The CPI(M) is a constituent of the INDIA bloc but the party has not yet nominated any member to the committee.

Venugopal said the committee also decided to hold joint public meetings in different parts of the country. The first public meeting will be held at Bhopal in the first week of October on the issue of rising prices, unemployment and corruption of the BJP Government. The parties present in the meeting agreed to take up the issue of the caste census, Venugopal said.

The resolution issued on September 1, after the third meeting of the bloc in Mumbai, said the parties would contest polls together as far as possible, and that seat sharing in arrangements in different states would be initiated immediately and concluded at the earliest.

Over two dozen Opposition parties have formed the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) to take on the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance unitedly in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

At the first meeting of the Opposition bloc in Patna in June, it was decided that the strongest candidate from each seat would be picked up for the Lok Sabha polls.
Since 2010, India has seen a remarkable increase in elephant corridors, rising from 88 to a commendable 150. These vital land strips span across 15 range-States within four elephant-rich regions, providing unimpeded pathways for these majestic creatures.

This progress is a testament to the combined efforts of State forest departments and Project Elephant, as emphasised by officials from the Union Environment Ministry. They underscore the imperative to establish secure migratory routes for elephants, ultimately mitigating human-elephant conflicts.

A thorough examination of the report, titled Elephant Corridors of India, reveals that while 69 corridors have witnessed unhampered movement of elephants, 29 have seen an uptick in their utilisation. Movement has remained stable in 29 corridors, whereas in 29 others, elephant traffic has decreased.

Out of the total corridors, 15 have been compromised and necessitate restoration efforts to regain full functionality. Information regarding the current usage of 18 corridors by elephants was not available.

In India, approximately 400 people and 100 elephants fall victim to man-animal conflicts each year. This peril is poised to escalate as elephants increasingly contend with their habitats being fragmented by rapid urbanisation, highways, and industrial expansion like mining. Moreover, climate change-induced temperature fluctuations and extreme weather conditions exacerbate their plight due to resource and fodder shortages.

Among the four regions in India known for their elephant populations, the east-central region leads with an impressive 52 elephant corridors, followed by the northeast with 48, and the southern region with 32. The northern region lags behind with only 18 elephant corridors.

An authentic elephant corridor serves as a land strip facilitating the movement of elephants between two or more viable habitat patches. Corridors that lead animals into human-dominated areas without connecting to suitable habitat patches are not deemed true elephant corridors.

Demographic isolation and concerns about genetic viability pose a significant extinction risk to elephant populations. Therefore, safeguarding these corridors stands as a pivotal conservation strategy, as highlighted in the report, which defines a corridor as a land strip enabling the movement of elephants between viable habitat patches.

As of the last estimation in 2017, India is home to around 30,000 elephants, constituting 60 per cent of the global elephant population. West Bengal leads the nation with the highest number of elephant corridors, accounting for over 17 percent of such crucial land patches.

States where elephants have recently expanded their ranges, such as the Vidarbha region in Maharashtra adjacent to Chhattisgarh, southern Maharashtra adjoining Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh (where elephants presently inhabit Bandhavgarh and Sanjay tiger reserves), and northern Andhra Pradesh (where elephants migrate in from Odisha), must assess the long-term viability of habitats to sustain elephant populations.

Adopting a data-driven approach to identify corridors is paramount in these regions, as articulated in the report. Furthermore, the report notes that data on elephant movement remains limited in many northeastern States hosting relatively small elephant populations.
All the political parties with a presence in Parliament have issued a whip to their Parliamentarians, directing them to ensure their presence during the five days of the special session convened next week. Party leaders from the ruling BJP, as well as Opposition benches comprising the Congress, the TMC, the RJD, and the Samajwadi Party, have issued whip to the MPs from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.

The whip comes hours after the Centre disclosed the tentative agenda for the Special Session of Parliament starting on September 18.

However, two major constituents of the Opposition coalition, INDIA bloc  the Shiv Sena (Uddhav) and Sharad Pawar-led NCP  have not issued a whip.

Sources within said they are not likely to issue any such whip as Maharashtra is in a festive mood due to the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi celebration. In their one-line whip circulars, both the BJP and the Congress have stated that, in view of some key agenda items that may be brought up during the Special Session, all MPs from both Houses must be present on all days.

The Opposition has alleged that the Government may have some hidden agenda for the Special Session, as the announced issues have been described as tentative. They even earlier raised questions about the real agenda for the session. The Government has listed a discussion on the Parliamentary journey of the past 75 years and the passage of five Bills in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, which includes the controversial Bill on the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners, introduced in the Rajya Sabha during the Monsoon Session.

The Congress has asserted that the Opposition INDIA bloc will speak in one voice during the session.

INDIA alliance parties are already speaking. We will speak in one voice not only at the all-party meeting but also during the five-day session. The agenda for the Special Session of Parliament has not been announced yet. I say this because, in the list of business, they have written a very sinister line... They have written that this is not an exhaustive list of business. So they will be up to dirty tricks and they can add some business last minute, said Congress chief spokesman Jairam Ramesh.

TMC leader Derek OBrien said the full agenda has not been revealed yet and the Government may deploy some dirty tricks and add more business to the list.

The agenda for the Special Session of Parliament has not been announced yet, said OBrien, a member of the Rajya Sabha.

First they said they are discussing Parliaments journey of 75 years. I asked them why they are bringing a Bill mocking Parliament and mocking the Constituent Assembly, OBrien said.

The agenda was published in the bulletins of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha late on Wednesday. The documents stated that on the first day, there will be a discussion in both the Houses on Parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha.

The tentative legislative business for the Lok Sabha listed four Bills, including the Advocates (Amendment) Bill and the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill. The Bills listed for passage should not be taken as exhaustive, the bulletin said.

Derek raised concerns over the Bill that seeks to regulate the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other election commissioners and said while the Government has listed a discussion on the 75-year journey of Parliament, they are also bringing a Bill and mocking democracy.

While Rajya Sabha member and RJD leader Manoj Jha said when the Session is announced, it is the moral responsibility of any Parliamentarian to be present in the House.

Shiv Sena leader and member of the Upper House Priyanka Chaturvedi said Maharashtra is in a festive mood now and party MPs will take turns to be present in Parliament since this is also the temple of democracy.

According to the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, the Chief Election Commissioner and election commissioners will be selected by a three-member panel headed by the Prime Minister and comprising the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and a Cabinet Minister. This is in contrast to a Supreme Court judgment of March this year which said the panel should comprise the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and the Chief Justice of India.
The crime branch unit of the Gurugram police has arrested six people for allegedly cheating a share market trader of Rs 35 lakh by offering to give him jewellery at discounted prices.

Complainant Manmohan Chauhan told the police that one of the key accused, who introduced himself as Narendra Rathore from Rajasthan, befriended him two months ago. Rathore said he worked at a prominent jewellery store, located on MG Road, and owned by his friend Sharma.

Rathore said Sharmas business had suffered huge losses and he wanted to sell jewellery at cheap prices. I was offered to buy it at a lower price and promised a bill, Chauhan said in his complaint.

Rathore later introduced Chauhan to Sharma and another accused  Mathur  in Chandni Chowk. On August 26, the four of them met at the Surya Hotel in Delhis New Friends Colony and agreed on the deal.

On August 31, Rathore came to my house and I took Rs 35 lakh from my house and went to Sahara Mall on MG Road. Where Sharma and Mathur joined us there, and I handed them the cash. Sharma and Rathore went with the bag to count the money and returned with another bag that they said had jewellery worth Rs 40 lakh in it, Chauhan alleged.

The complainant said he left with Rathore to go to Sharmas shop nearby, but on the way, four men intercepted them and threatened them to hand over the bag. They even threatened him to run away from there, Chauhan got scared and ran away from there. Later it came to light that Narendra and his associates conspired together and duped him of Rs 35 lakh by creating a story of getting cheap gold from him.

Following this Chauhan reported the matter to the police and a case was registered at the Sector-29 police station. A crime branch team of DLF Phase-4 nabbed the accused from different locations in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh and took them on two days police remand from the court.

Those arrested were identified as Arvind, Gulbir Singh, Sensarpal, Narendra Singh, Mohammad Salim alias Sharma and Sunder Chaudhary.

All the accused are in the age group of 45-65 years. Accused Sensarpal, Gulbir and Arvind work as home guards in UP and all these accused know each other. Accused Narendra Singh, along with his associates and other accomplices, as per the plan, established a good relationship with the victim and his family and took them into their confidence and carried out the crime, Inspector Sandeep Kumar said.
Ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Deputy Election Commissioner of the Election Commission of India, Hirdesh Kumar held a review meeting for the preparations for the Lok Sabha 2024 elections with the Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Election Officers of all the districts of Haryana



The ECI lauded the efforts of Anurag Agarwal, Chief Electoral Officer of Haryana in the development of an innovative mobile application designed for queue management. This application, a first in the nation, has been created to enhance the convenience of voters by allowing them to determine their place in the queue, eliminating the need to stand in long lines.



In the meeting, a detailed discussion was also held on the revision of voter lists in preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Hirdesh Kumar highlighted a significant change initiated by the Election Commission, enabling youth to register as voters at the age of 17. Previously, eligibility was restricted to those turning 18 on or before January 1 of a given year. Under the revised rules, youth can now register as voters on specific dates i.e. January 1, April, 1 July 1 and October 1 coinciding with their 18th birthday. He said that those turning 18 by January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1, 2023, should make it a priority to register themselves as voters during 2023.



Regarding voter statistics in Haryana, CEO Anurag Agarwal reported a total of 1,95,48,846 registered voters in the state. Haryana has 19,863 polling stations, all located on the ground floor to ensure accessibility for disabled voters and the average number of voters per polling station stands at 984.



He said that the voter registration process is ongoing in Haryana, with special campaigns targeting voter registration in group housing societies in major cities such as Gurugram and Faridabad.
Met office predicts light to moderate rains in Himachal Pradesh



Shimla: Even though the monsoon remained subdued in the past few days in Himachal Pradesh, the local Met office on Thursday predicted a wet spell of light to moderate rain in the state between September 15 and September 20. A fresh western disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from the evening of September 15, the Met office said and predicted light to moderate rains in low and mid hills, and light to moderate rain as well as snow in high hills till September 20. Heavy rain wreaked havoc in Himachal Pradesh in the months of July and August and the state has so far suffered losses of Rs 8,680 crore due to it.



PGI Launches Program for School Teachers to Help Children with Diabetes during School Time



Chandigarh: The first session of an education program aimed at training school teachers to handle problems faced by children having diabetes was held on Thursday at the Advanced Pediatrics Centre, PGIMER. Forty school teachers from government and private schools of Chandigarh participated in the session. The training program is envisaged to train at least two school personnel (medical/non-medical) from each school in Chandigarh, followed by schools in the Tricity region.



Hry wins Gold Award at TIOL Awards 2023



Chandigarh: Haryana Government on Thursday secured the first prize in the "Reformist State" category at the TIOL Awards 2023. This recognition underscores Haryana's commitment to fostering positive change and innovation within its governance framework, said an official spokesperson.



Hry Govt allocates Rs 28.19 crores for 28,484 Smartphones to enhance Anganwadi Worker efficiency and nutrition monitoring



Chandigarh: Haryana Minister of State for Women and Child Development Kamlesh Dhanda on Thursday said that Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Thursday accorded approval to a project aimed at providing Anganwadi workers with smartphones through the High-Powered Purchase Committee. She said that 28,484 smartphones would be purchased for Anganwari workers, with a budget allocation of Rs. 28.19 crores.



Punjab VB arrests wife of Bhangu in Pearls Group scam



Chandigarh: The Vigilance Bureau (VB) Punjab on Thursday arrested absconding accused Prem Kaur, w/o Nirmal Singh Bhangoo, Managing Director, Pearls Golden Forest (PGF) Ltd. She was nominated in this case for alienating properties belonging to PACL Ltd. and its subsidiary/group companies in Punjab and authorizing a close confederate to alienate/sell out the properties belonging to PACL Ltd. in violation of the order of Supreme Court.
Delhi BJP MLAs on Wednesday urged Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to call a Special Session of the Legislative Assembly on the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission , Aditya L mission and the G20 Summit along with extending gratitude to the scientists and acknowledging Prime Minister Narendra Modis visionary leadership.

Along with extending gratitude to the scientists and teams that made both possible, respectively, the special session needed to be held to acknowledge Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership that was behind both historic achievements, said the Leader of Opposition in Delhi Assembly Ramvir Singh Bidhuri while addressing a press conference along with BJP MLAs.

The Assembly should also thank Government officers and employees for the successful G20 Summit, he said.

During a joint Press conference, BJP legislators emphasised that the success achieved is not only that of our space agency but also a symbol of Indias progress and its strength on the global stage. Therefore, they believe it is essential for the legislative assembly to hold a special session so that they can also be a part of this celebration. The BJP MLAs  Mohan Singh Bisht, Bijendra Gupta, Om Prakash Sharma, Jitender Mahajan, Anil Vajpayee, Ajay Mahavar, and Abhay Varma were also present.

The BJP MLAs emphasized that landing on the south pole of the moon is not just a success for our space agency but also a symbol of how our scientists are always prepared to go beyond boundaries in their quest for knowledge. The information we are gaining from the Pragyan rover will lead to growth in our knowledge, pave the way for new discoveries, and assist in understanding the mysteries of the moon and beyond. For this, the scientists at ISRO deserve congratulations and gratitude, they said.

They stated that the Delhi Legislative Assembly should also welcome two important aspects related to the Chandrayan mission by naming them Tiranga (where the Chandrayaan-2 lander crashed) and Shivshakti (where Chandrayaan-3 landed). These names resonate with both our glorious history and modernity.

They are not just names; they encapsulate Indias ancient heritage and its contemporary scientific aspirations in a single thread.

Last month, India became the first country to land on the lunar south pole with Chandrayaan-3.
he Delhi High Court has asked the authorities to strictly comply with all provisions relating to the capture and the release of street dogs for special events such as Independence Day and Republic Day. The order  released on Wednesday  came on a public interest litigation by Anita Santiago, who sought directions to release the dogs captured by the civic authorities for such events and to ensure their welfare according to the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023.

The court directed the Delhi Government, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the Animal Welfare Board of India to ensure strict compliance of all the provisions under Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, while capturing and releasing the stray dogs.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) counsel said it is following the ABC Rules and, as far as the G20 Summit was concerned, the process to release the captured strays has already been initiated. The counsel for Animal Welfare Board of India affirmed the MCDs submission. The civic body has told the Court that the process of releasing stray dogs that were captured during the preparation for the G 20 summit has been initiated in strict adherence with law.

In view of the stand taken by the authorities, the court said no further orders were required on the petition. Learned Counsel for the MCD has stated before this court that the process of releasing the dogs that were captured in preparation for the G20 Summit has already been initiated in strict adherence to the ABC Rules and with the assistance of the AWBI. These submissions are affirmed by the Learned Counsel for the AWBI. In light of the aforenoted submissions, the Respondent authorities are directed to ensure strict compliance with all the provisions prescribed under the ABC Rules relating to the capture and release of street dogs, said a bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Sanjeev Narula in an order dated September 11.

The counsel appearing for Petitioner submitted that a detailed mechanism for capture and release of dogs has been prescribed under the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, which should be followed diligently by the MCD.

The petitioner highlighted the ABC Rules mandate that the dogs should be identified with numbered collars immediately upon capture to maintain proper records that would subsequently facilitate their release in the same locality from where they were captured.

In her petition, Anita Santiago raised concern with respect to allegations of the inhumane way the MCD was removing street dogs for the G20 Summit in blatant violation of the ABC Rules.

Any event which makes the country proud and where the nation needs to project itself to the world calls for few steps of discretion for efficient organisation of such events, however, the same has to be within the bounds of law and not beyond it, she said in her plea.

Actions of respondent no 1 (MCD) are impugned in this petition whereby the respondent no 1 despite withdrawal of its circulars for unlawful capture of dogs has permitted the use of government machinery to capture dogs with the assistance of private unauthorised persons, the petition alleged. Advocates Nirbhay Kumar, Nishant Mandal, Anshu Anand and Shubham Srivastava appeared for petitioner.

The animals right activists has alleged the civic body has started releasing canines back into colonies - at random, not their home habitats. Many dogs were not properly tagged while being picked up and locked in pounds, kept away from their territories for several days, and released into neighbourhoods at random after the end of G 20 summit, they alleged.
The Delhi Government will be writing to various road owning agencies to give them land parcels for stationing food trucks as part of its ambitious plan to promote night time economy.

The Government had identified 16 locations where these food trucks would be stationed, but the plan has hit a roadblock with the agencies concerned not being on board with the idea.

We are working on the food truck policy, but before that there were plans to operate food trucks at 16 selected locations. These include Dilli Haat Janakpuri, Dilli Haat Pitampura, DDA Park in Rohini, Vishwavidhalaya and DDA Park in Rohini, an official said.

However, at some places, the land is with the DDA, at some (places) with the DMRC and at some (places) with the MCD and they were not in agreement to allot land for this purpose. Out of the 16 locations, we have only a couple of locations where there are no issues, the official added.

The tourism department, which is looking after the project, will be writing to the land owning agencies to request them to allot land for developing them as food truck hubs. The letters will be sent by this week in all probability, the official said. Earlier in June this year, the government had said Delhi would soon have food truck hubs like that in New York, Hong Kong and Australia.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had given an in-principle approval to the policy. The policy will be implemented with the operation of food trucks in 16 selected locations. Upon its successful implementation, the model will be replicated across Delhi, a statement from the chief ministers office had said.

Presenting the budget for the financial year 2022-23, then deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia had said the government was preparing a policy to allow food trucks to operate at designated places in the city from 8 pm to 2 am.

This will strengthen the night economy of Delhi and new employment opportunities will be created, Sisodia said.


Hindi is a popular language. There are people speaking Hindi all over the world. Due to its popularity, Hindi language content is available in abundance in the internet world also. News channels like BBC etc. also broadcast news in Hindi language," Director General of Sri Krishna Institute of Public Administration, L Khiangtey said in the Hindi Day function organized by the Department of Personnel, Administrative Reforms and Official Language on Thursday at Sri Krishna Institute of Public Administration. on Thursday.



Khiangtey shared his experience regarding Hindi language from studies to joining administrative service. He said that Hindi is needed everywhere. This cannot be avoided. The need for Hindi is being felt from South to North, East to West. He said that in Mizoram, where he comes from, now spoken Hindi classes are being run to learn Hindi. He appealed to the people to keep Hindi as the language of communication at home.



On this occasion, Personnel Secretary, Praveen Toppo said that it is the effort of the government that work should be done in Hindi language in all government departments. He said that Hindi is an easy language. We write in the same way as we speak in Hindi. This is its own specialty of Hindi. He said that Hindi is the language of all communication. Hindi language is now being spoken and understood in various states of South India. Hindi is being accepted in foreign countries. This is the reason why Hindi is the third most spoken language in the world.



Dr. Mithilesh Kumar Singh, Head of the Hindi Department of Vinoba Bhave University, said that Hindi is the language of communication, the language of the market. He threw light on the development of Hindi language in detail. He said that we also have to see whether we are bringing Hindi language into our behavior and speech. He appealed for association with the Hindi language. He said that unless knowledge is created in one's own language, the identity of the language will not be established.



On this occasion, the first, second and third winners of the essay competition and short story competition were honored by the Department of Personnel, Administrative Reforms and Official Language.



On the occasion, K Srinivasan, Director of Shri Krishna Institute of Public Administration and Dr. Pragya Gupta, Head of the Hindi Department of Ranchi University also expressed their views.



Officials and other people from various departments including the Department of Personnel, Administrative Reforms and Official Language were present in the ceremony.
Deputy Commissioner Dr Waghmare Prasad Krishna said that Hindi has been used very well in the field of art, culture and literature but Hindi is not used in the field of science. Hindi language should also be used in scientific works, research etc. Today's young generation can play an important role in this. If today's young generation wants it, it can bring revolutionary changes in it.

The DC said these things in a program organized at Nagar Bhawan on Thursday on the occasion of Hindi Day. The DC said that today's youth should learn as many languages as possible so that they can be successful in the present context. This will further enrich the language. There will be an opportunity to know each other's culture closely. Said that language should not be linked with scholarship. Language is a medium and tool, the more you learn the language, the more new opportunities you will get.

Today Hindi is the most spoken language in the country. Hindi is also spoken in many countries of the world. Every fifth person in the world speaks Hindi. There is a diversity of languages in India. More than 10 languages are spoken in Jharkhand alone. Despite this, Hindi is the language which is most popular and spoken.

Superintendent of Police Harish Bin Zaman said that Hindi has been used in different ways at different times. Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi infused the spirit of nationalism in his movement through Hindi. Swami Vivekananda saw India as Mother India. Today Hindi is being used everywhere. Hindi is also being used in Google, Hindi is not lagging behind anywhere.

Sub-divisional officer Arvind Kumar Lal said that Hindi should be used as much as possible. This is the official language. Today, Hindi and Sanskrit languages have suffered losses due to the use of English. In the programme, lectures on Hindi language were presented by teachers and students of various schools.

Deputy Development Commissioner Jaijyoti Samanta, Nazarat Deputy Collector, General Branch In-charge, District Education Superintendent along with Bijay Kumar Kiran Kumari and students were present on the occasion.
The Himachal cabinet on Thursday decided to establish the Himachal Pradesh Rajya Chayan Aayog to conduct examinations for the recruitment of subordinate staff for the state government, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), boards, corporations and local bodies.



The cabinet held a meeting here under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu's chairmanship and decided to replace the disbanded Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission (HPSSC) at Hamirpur with the Himachal Pradesh Rajya Chayan Aayog, a government statement said.



The HPSSC was dissolved earlier in February this year, two months after the paper leak was unearthed on December 23, 2022, when the vigilance bureau arrested Uma Azad, a senior assistant of the commission, with solved question paper and Rs 2.5 lakh cash.



Earlier on September 4, Sukhu had announced to set up the Rajya Chayan Aayog in place of the HPSSC within the next two months to ensure fairness in the candidates' selection criteria. The chief minister had maintained that a transparent and merit-based selection process would be in place. He had said that 6,000 teachers would be recruited through the new commission and the state government would conduct the examinations for recruitment of more than 10,000 people this year.



The cabinet also approved the 'Mukhyamantri Laghu Dukandar Kalyan Yojna- 2023' and decided to allocate Rs 40 crore under the scheme to provide better opportunities for availing loans to small entrepreneurs and skill-based workers like cobblers, tailors, barbers, mobile repairing vendors, vegetable and fruit vendors and others for their business.










The members and workers of Indian National Development Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) organized a one-day protest in front of Raj Bhavan on Thursday to save Heavy Engineering Corporation (HEC) Limited of the State Capital.



During the protest, the INDIA bloc announced to fight an all-out war to save the organisation. On the occasion HEC employees and members of INDIA raised slogans like We will give our lives, but we will not let HEC be closed and Save HEC, drive away Modi.



Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) District President, Mustaq Alam, Youth RJD President, Ranjan Yadav, RJD Woman Leader, Anita Yadav, CPI Leader, Ajay Singh, Congress Leader, Ajay Nath Shahdev along with hundreds of employees including labor union leader Bhuvan Singh were present in the program.



Addressing the people who came to Raj Bhawan to protest former Union Minister, Subodh Kant Sahay said that HEC has made important contributions from Chandrayaan to Suryayaan missions but the BJP Government at the Center did not take any initiative to save HEC. The HEC employees have not received salaries for 18 months. On the other hand, HEC land is being converted into a colony considering it as Government land, he added.



Sahay also said that we will fight a policy battle to save HEC. We will even sacrifice our lives to save HEC land and factory, but will not let it be closed, he added.
Indian Youth Congress (IYC) and NSUI activists were detained here on Thursday for protesting against Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Chhattisgarh over joblessness and cancellation of trains.

Scores of IYC and National Students Union of India (NSUI) members were marching to Kodatarai village with placards when they were detained at Gandhi Chowk, Raigarh Additional Superintendent Sanjay Mahadeva.

The activists wore black shirts and raised slogans like "Modi go back".

It was Modis second visit to Chhattisgarh after July.
Labour unions announced a three-day strike in Coal India, its subsidiary and Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) from October 5. This decision was taken in the joint meeting of the five central labor unions working in the coal industry. The meeting was held in Ranchi on Thursday. Notice of the strike notice has been sent by labor organizations to the Chairman of Coal India and SCCL.



Representatives of BMS, HMS, INTUC, AITUC, CITU were present in the meeting. It was unanimously decided that if Coal India and SCCL management decides to stop or reduce the pre-determined wages and allowances, then all the five central labor unions of the coal industry will go on strike on October 5, 6 and October 7.



In the notice sent to the management, the labor unions have said that on May 20, the lawful NCWA-11 agreement was concluded between the management of Coal India and SCCL and the trade unions working in them. After the agreement, the salary for the month of July-August, 2023 was paid in August and September, 2023.



It is feared that the workers (Non-Executives) working in Coal India and SCCL and its subsidiary companies, departments, establishments will not be paid the old salaries of NCWA-10 of September, 2023.

Labor organizations said that their demand is that all the employees working in Coal India, Singareni Collieries Company Limited and all the subsidiary companies should be paid their salaries for the month of September, 2023 on time in October and as per NCWA-11.



If the management of Coal India, SCCL does not do this, then a three-day strike will be observed in Coal India, SCCL and its subsidiaries including their headquarters from October 5 to October 7, 2023. During this period, workers of all the institutions of Coal India, SCCL and their subsidiary companies including the headquarters will remain on strike.



The strike notice has been signed by BMS's K Lakshma Reddy, Majrul Haq Ansari, INTUC's Kumar Jaimanal Singh, AK Jha, HMS's Nathulal Pandey, RB Raghavan, AITUC's Ramendra Kumar, Ashok Yadav.
Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Thursday approached the Delhi High Court seeking quashing of the Central governments order denying him political clearance to travel to New York to attend Columbia India Energy Dialogue.

The Ministry of External Affairs has said in its September 12 letter that it has examined the proposal and declined political clearance as the visit from Government of NCT of Delhi would not be appropriate as India is being represented at the Columbia-India Energy Dialogue by Suman Kumar Bery, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog (Ministerial-rank).

Rai has sought permission to travel to the US city from September 15 to 21 to attend the programme being held on September 18. Justice Subramonium Prasad listed the plea for hearing on Friday.

Rai, in his petition filed through the Delhi Government standing counsel Santosh Kumar Tripathi and advocate Arun Panwar, said his official request to attend the event has been rejected assigning arbitrary and malafide reasons.

The invitation is specific for different persons representing different stakeholders and does not intend to confine delegates at national level only for the formal representation of the country, therefore the reason cited herein above is nothing but a colourable exercise of power and accordingly bad in law, the petition said.

Rai said he received the invitation on August 13 for attending and speaking at the event. He said is clear from the invitation that it is a dialogue by all the stakeholders, along with Indian Think Tanks to address the essential issues of energy consumption expected to grow about 1.5 times in the coming decades.

Therefore, citing the reason that India is represented by a bureaucrat of ministerial level is neither intended nor desired by the Global Energy Policy, the organisation holding the dialogue, he said.

The plea said the Centre has permitted other officers from different states to attend the event, and the reasons given in the order denying permission to Rai are completely contradicted by these actions.

It is also not out of place to mention that Arvind Kumar, Special Chief Secretary, Municipal Administration and Urban Development, Telangana Government is also a part of the programme and has been selected as a speaker to speak on the issue of balancing energy, security and energy transition priorities in India.

This is demonstrated by the fact that the impugned order cites reasons that are contradicted by other actions taken by the respondents. This clearly demonstrates that the impugned order is a colourable exercise of power, the petition said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India rapidly moving towards an objective of joining the top 3 economies in the world. Madhya Pradesh has a significant role to play in achieving this goal. We have ambitious plans for Madhya Pradesh for the coming five years and it will touch new heights of development

The Prime Minister today performed ground-breaking ceremonies for industrial projects worth nearly 51,000 crores at Bina. These will transform the destiny of Bundelkhand and Madhya Pradesh. Industrial development will receive a new boost. The central government will invest more than 50,000 crores in new projects in Madhya Pradesh. These projects will ensure that dreams of the poor and the middle class are realized. He expressed thank to people for being part of this ceremony.

Prime Minister Modi was addressing a massive community gathering at the foundation-laying ceremony of new industrial projects in the Bina Refinery complex today. He inaugurated industrial projects worth 51,000 crores, including a petrochemical complex with an investment of 49,000 crores at the Bina Refinery complex and 10 new industrial projects costing 1,800 crores at various locations in Madhya Pradesh.

Renewable energy zone in Narmadapuram, two IT parks in Indore, a mega industrial park in Ratlam, and new industrial centers in six cities  Shajapur, Guna, Mandsaur, Agar-Malwa, Narmadapuram, and Maksi will be developed.

Earlier, Prime Minister Modi, along with Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Member of Parliament V.D. Sharma, greeted the people from an open jeep before reaching the stage. They also took round of an exhibition showcasing the construction of the petrochemical complex at the event venue. Chief Minister Chouhan presented Prime Minister Modi with a bouquet and a replica of the Sanchi Stupa.

Modi said that the success of the G-20 has elevated India's status globally, with the name of G-20 now echoing in the voices of children in every village. He credited the success of G-20 not to people of the country, emphasizing it as a result of India's collective strength. The successful organization of G-20 meetings in Bhopal, Indore, and Khajuraho also played a crucial role, with Madhya Pradesh's significant contribution, for which he commended Shivraj's team.

Modi highlighted the importance of India becoming self-reliant during the Amrit Kaal of Independence. He noted that inaugurating a petrochemical unit in this sector will assist India in achieving self-reliance, reducing its dependence on other countries for diesel, petrol, and petrochemical materials. These projects will lead to regional development, the emergence of new industries, and employment opportunities for farmers, small entrepreneurs, and a large number of young people.

The Prime Minister emphasized that India is emerging as a global leader, capable of uniting the world, and this ability is rooted in its ancient culture that has connected the country for thousands of years. He acknowledged the contributions of various historical figures and stressed the need to protect this heritage against forces attempting to undermine it.

Modi assured that serving the people is government's guarantee. He listed various initiatives like providing homes, toilets, free medical treatment, bank account facility for all, gas connections, and reduced gas cylinder prices on Raksha Bandhan.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday launched a Mukhyamantri Sampooorna Pushti Yojana for adolescent girls, children and women to provide them the necessary nutritional support.

The Chief Minister also launched a Pada Pushti programme.

Under the scheme, all the adolescent girls in the age group of 15 to 19 years would be provided with dry foods. The children with acute malnutrition would be provided with Purna Ahara. The medium and underweight children would be provided with eggs and Sattu enriched with vitamins.

In the Pada Pushti prgramme, Adivasi and remote area children would be provided with cooked food in their villages.

The CM said development has deep links with nutrition. The required nutrition of a family can only be provided by mothers. So, the programmes success depends on them. The Anganwadi Workers and Mission Shakti members have an important responsibility to make the programme a success.
In an interesting twist to the recovery of a headless body in Meerut last Saturday and its identification by a family, the victim was found alive with a girl he allegedly kidnapped from Muzaffarnagar.

Luckily, the police made this breakthrough minutes before the family members were going to cremate the body on Thursday morning.

Now the body has been handed over to Meerut police once again to ascertain its identity and solve the murder mystery.

Last Saturday, a headless body was recovered from a drain behind Sardar Patel Agriculture University under Daurala police station in Meerut. Both hands of the victim were also chopped off by the killer(s) before dumping the body.

The Daurala police had sent photographs of the body to 1,626 groups created on Facebook and police stations to identify the body. When Mansoorpur police saw the photos, they informed the family of Monty, son of Suresh, who was missing from Nona village. When Montys siblings and family reached the mortuary, they identified the body as that of Monty.

They claimed that Monty had a tattoo on his neck and the names of his parents were tattooed on his hands and perhaps for this reason the killer(s) had chopped off his head and hands so that he could not be identified.

After the post-mortem, Mansoorpur police brought the body to Surajkund crematorium for cremation. Montys family protested against this. There was commotion for several hours. The family members said that they would perform the last rites in their native village. After the uproar, the family left for Muzaffarnagar with the dead body.

On Thursday morning, minutes before the cremation, the case took a new twist when the police found Monty alive in Chandigarh along with the girl whom he had allegedly kidnapped from Muzaffarnagar.

A report of kidnapping of a girl was registered against Monty by the girls family members. After the dead body was found, Montys family accused the family of the girl of killing their son.

Reports said that Monty had a love affair with the girl and he went to her home on the night of August 28 to meet her and later they eloped. Montys family alleged that the girls family caught both after which they killed their son and could have eliminated the girl.

It may be mentioned that Monty used to work at a salon during the day in Chandigarh and as a guard at night. The cops found both Monty and the girl in Chandigarh in the wee hours of Thursday and they immediately alerted their counterparts in Muzaffarnagar after which the cremation was stopped and the body was handed over to Meerut police for further investigation into the case.

A senior officer said that they would grill Monty as he might have killed someone and chopped off his head and hands so that his family and others took him as dead and he could live freely with his lover.
After National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered to stop emissions from diesel engines, terming them a threat to humans and aquatic life, 'Lake Princess' cruise and 'Jalpari' motorboats were stopped sailing in Upper Lake since Thursday.

The Tourism Development Corporation also did not operate about 20 motor boats along with cruises and Jalpari(Motor boat).

Earlier on Wednesday, after remaining closed during the day, the cruise had taken only two rounds in the evening. The ticket counter remained closed on Thursday. Tourists returned due to closure of cruise and motor boat operations.

On September 12, the National Green Tribunal had ordered to ban the operation of cruise and motor boats in any water bodies of the state including Bhoj Wetland (Upper Lake ), Narmada.

On Thursday, the decision was taken to completely shut down operations. Boat Club Manager RS Mishra said that cruise or any motor boat is not being operated on Thursday. It has been decided to keep it closed.

More than a thousand people reach the boat club every day. Most of these people also enjoy boating. See the waves of Bada Talab closely through cruise and motor boat. Apart from this, private boats also operate from here. Everyone's fare is different. Tourism Development Corporation officials say that they are studying the NGT order. At the same time, legal advice is also being taken. Only after this will we take further steps.

Lake cell had given notice

Following the NGT order, the Lake Conservation Cell of Bhopal Municipal Corporation had on Wednesday issued instructions to the Tourism Development Corporation and both the private motor boat operators. All activities related to motor boats at Bada Talab and Prempura Ghat were asked to be stopped. The officers had said that even after the instructions, if a motor boat runs here, then an FIR will be lodged against it in the concerned police station for disobeying the NGT order.

NGT has declared emissions from diesel and diesel engines a threat to humans and aquatic life. Because the sulfur and nitrogen oxides emitted from it make the water acidic. It is carcinogenic to both humans and aquatic organisms.

This order issued for Bhoj Wetland will be applicable to all types of wetlands of the state including Narmada River. NGT has ordered the state government to ensure compliance with this order and submit an action taken report within 3 months.

The jury of Justice Sudhir Aggarwal and expert Afroz Ahmed has given this order on the petition of former BU professor Dr. Subhash Pandey.

In the petition, the Chief Forest Conservator of Madhya Pradesh has been ordered that if cruise or motor boats are being operated in the eco-sensitive zone of the National Park, the wetland present on the forest land or any aquatic structure reserved for wild life, then to stop their operation immediately and ensure action on these.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Bhopal today on a short stay. Home Minister Narottam Mishra and Medical Education Minister Vishwas Kailash Sarang along with Chief Secretary Iqbal Singh Bains, Additional Director General of Police Anil Kumar and other public representatives and army and police officers warmly welcomed Prime Minister Modi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the State hanger at 9:50 am by Air Force One special plane. From here the Prime Minister left for Bina in Sagar district by army helicopter. There he will perform Bhoomi Pujan of the petrochemical complex costing of Rs 50 thousand crores.and other industrial areas.

On the arrival of Prime Minister Modi, MLAs Rameshwar Sharma, Krishna Gaur, Mayor Malti Rai, Lieutenant General Vipul Singhal, Ramkunwar Navrang Gurjar and other public representatives and senior officials were present on the occasion of welcome at the airport.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a dinner party for the Delhi Police officers who provided security to the world leaders and Bharat Mandapam where the G20 Summit was held on September 9 and 10. According to sources, the exact date of the dinner has not been finalised but it is expected later this week.

This is the first time Modi has invited police officials who worked relentlessly to make sure that the G20 Summit 2023 become a success. More than 450 Delhi police officials, including the best performing officials from each and every department and every district, will be part of the dinner that will take place at Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, the venue of the G20 Summit.

Sources said Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora has asked for the names of police personnel from every district who were deployed for the duty. The list is expected to have 450 personnel, who, along with Arora, are likely to have dinner with the Prime Minister at Bharat Mandapam. The dinner for Delhi Police by Modi will help motive the cops for seamlessly carrying out future high-profile events.

Modis gesture not only acknowledges the dedication and sacrifices of the police force during the G20 summit but also acts as a source of motivation for the committed officers. It underscores the significance of their role in ensuring the security and success of significant global conferences such as the G20.

This is not the first time Modi will be recognising the efforts of people involved in a major achievement. In May, ahead of the inauguration of the new Parliament Building, he had felicitated the labourers involved in its construction.

In light of the remarkable success of the G20 event, the Delhi Police has issued a notification granting its personnel two days of well-deserved leave. The security personnel worked endlessly for contact for three days- from September 8 to 10, for the summit.

The Delhi Police was solely given the responsibility for the outer security of the high-profile G20 Summit that was held in the national capital on 9 and 10 September. The Capital had turned into fortress. Security during the G20 Summit was the biggest challenge as world leaders had congregated in Delhi and the cops of the national capital proved its mettle.

More than 30,000 Delhi Police personnel were deployed on the ground in the NDMC (New Delhi Municipal Council) areas. Also, more than 2,000 police officials  both armed and unarmed  were positioned inside Bharat Mandapam.

Several departments of Delhi Police worked in tandem for the successful and hassle free G20 Summit in India that was attended by head of more than 31 States.
Former Delhi Minister and senior leader Arvinder Singh Lovely formally took charge of the Delhi Congress president on Thursday. After taking charge of the Delhi Congress, Lovely said reviving the party in the national Capital and fixing its organisational structure are among his first priorities.

After taking charge, Lovely asserted that the party will fight against the corruption of the ruling parties and raise issues that affect the common people. I will do my best to live up to the expectations of the high command. I assure everyone that we will work shoulder-to-shoulder with every worker to consolidate the party, Lovely said.

He further advised party leaders and workers to protest in their areas against any wrongdoing by the ruling AAP Government and the Opposition BJP members.

Lovely asserted that the Congress will forcefully fight against the misrule and corruption of the ruling parties by projecting the Congress stand on crucial issues in unequivocal terms, by taking a definite stand on matters affecting the people. He further said it was the duty and responsibility of every Congress worker to follow the direction of the party high command.

Deepak Babaria, the Congress Delhi in-charge, and Ajay Maken, Subhash Chopra, Jai Prakash Agarwal and Anil Chaudhary  former chiefs of the partys state unit  were present at the programme. Congress Working Committee members Devender Yadav, former MPs Krishna Tirath, Sandeep Dikshit and Parvesh Hashmi were also present. Senior leader Jai Kishan, Harun Yusuf, Raj Kumar Chauhan, Mukesh Sharma, Kunwar Karan Singh and Naseeb Singh were also present.

Speaking on the occasion, former Union Minister Ajay Maken, addressed the party workers and said Lovely, who has a great connect with the party workers, will definitely do a very good job to strengthen party and the presence of thousands of Congress workers today was a clear indication that the party was in a resurgent mode.

Earlier, former Delhi Congress president Subhash Chopra thanked Sonia Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, KC Venugopal, Deepak Babaria and the party High Command for the appointment of Lovely as the Delhi Congress president.

He also introduced a resolution, which was passed unanimously. Many happy Congress workers said this was not a public meeting, but a Congress workers mela as they were all elated at the return of Lovely as the Delhi Congress president, which, they felt, will give a new impetus to the party, and boost enthusiasm among the Congress workers.

Lovely has served as transport, education, urban development and revenue minister during the Congress regime in Delhi. He has served as Delhi Congress chief earlier as well.

Lovely was fielded against the BJPs Gautam Gambhir and the AAPs Atishi from the East Delhi constituency in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.
The Supreme Court will hear the petition filed by Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren against the ED on Friday (September 15). Soren has challenged the summons sent to him by the ED for questioning. The petition filed by Soren in the Supreme Court has challenged the validity of Sections 50 and 63 of the PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) 2002. The investigating agency has the power under Section 50 to record a statement or arrest anyone during interrogation. Hence the fear of arrest after issuing the summons remains.

CM Hemant Soren has requested the Supreme Court to stay the summons and order the ED not to take punitive action. ED had sent summons to Chief Minister thrice in August and asked him to appear at the zonal office of the ED in Ranchi for questioning, however, he failed to appear.

He wrote a letter to the EDs assistant director, describing the action as politically motivated. He had informed the ED that he had filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court against the action, so he would not appear before the agency till the hearing. He was first summoned on August 8 and asked to appear on August 14, but he did not turn up.

During that time he had said that he had to hoist the flag on the occasion of the 77th Independence Day on 15th August, many meetings were already scheduled, and many programs were included in such a plan to destabilise the government by suddenly calling him for questioning on 14 August. The Chief Minister alleged that the investigating agencies are working at the behest of the central government.

After being summoned by ED for the third time on September 1, Soren wrote a letter to the central investigation agency informing them that his petition challenging the notice issued against him is pending in the Supreme Court, and hence, he should not be issued further summons.

Soren skipped his third summons in a row on September 9 and instead attended the dinner hosted by Rashtrapati Bhavan for G20 Summit leaders in New Delhi. Two other summons were issued by the ED to him.

The pictures of CM Soren attending the dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu was shared by the CM office. In this picture, Hemant Soren is seen with Indian President Draupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and America's President Biden. Chief Minister Hemant Soren is talking to everyone and everyone seems happy about it.
Members of the Pradesh Student Congress gheraoed the residence of Higher Education Minister Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak here on Thursday protesting against the State Governments decision to cancel students' union elections in the universities and degree colleges,

The agitators led by Student Congress State president Yasir Nawaj tried to barge into the Ministers residence which led to a scuffle with police personnel. The agitators also burned effigies of the Higher Education Minister and the Chief Minister. Later, the demonstrators were detained by police.

Nawaj said that despite repeated demands from the students, the government is not been holding the students union polls. By stopping the elections, the government is murdering democracy in the State.

Our only demand is that the government must revoke its decision of cancelling students union elections. Otherwise, we will stage protests across the State in the coming days. We will follow the Higher Education Minister everywhere if our demand is not fulfilled, he added.
ITC presented a proposal for Rs 5,000 crore investment in Uttarakhand to the State government during the curtain raiser for the global investors summit held in the national capital on Thursday. Further, memorandum of understanding for investment worth Rs 1,000 crore was signed with Mahindra Holidays and Resort India Limited and worth Rs 1,600 crore with E-Kuber. Mahindra Holidays and Resort India Limited is planning to invest Rs 1,000 crore during the next three months and set up four to five resorts in various locations in the State. This will also generate employment opportunities for 1,500 people. This is the largest investment of the company anywhere in State so far.

Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was the chief guest at the curtain raiser organised at a hotel in New Delhi. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Dhami said that the Uttarakhand said that the Uttarakhand global investors summit-2023 is slated to be held in Dehradun during December. He said that Uttarakhand is swiftly emerging as a young State with immense scope for industries. The State has ease of doing business and peace of doing business. The instances of labour dissatisfaction in the industries operation in Uttarakhand are negligible. The CM said that the government is working on the vision of developing world-class basic infrastructure along with convenience commercial atmosphere. Special policies have been implemented to encourage investment in various sectors and attractive fincncial incentives have also been facilitated. The prominent policies include the tourism policy, MSME policy, startup policy, logistics policy and policy for establishment of private industrial estates. He said that the State government is committed to develop Uttarakhand as one of the fastest growing economies of the nation. The Sashakt Uttarakhand mission launched to strengthen the States economy aims to double the SGDP in the next five years. The global investors summit is one of the steps being taken by the government to meet this target, he said. The CM further said that 1,200 Acts have been identified in the State which are not useful now and about 500 of these acts are being repealed through the Single Repeal Act. A land bank of about 6,000 acres is presently available in the State for various types of industries. Rail, road and air connectivity are being improved consistently in the State. Directs flights to various cities are available from the Dehradun airport. The Dehradun and Pantnagar airports are also being expanded, he added.Dhami said, Industrialists of the State are our brand ambassadors and they have a major role in increasing investment in the State. Effective steps have been taken for establishment of aroma park in Kashipur, plastic park in Sitarganj, industrial manufacturing cluster in Kashipur and the Amritsar-Kolkata industrial corridor, said the CM.

The States chief secretary SS Sandhu said that Uttarakhand is a better destination for investment. Referring to proximity to Delhi-NCR, he said that with development this distance will be shortened soon to two and a half hours by road. Similarly, road facilities will shorten the distance to other cities including Haridwar, Kotdwar, Rudrapur, Kashipur and Tanakpur, he added.

Additional chief secretary Radha Raturi said that Uttarakhand had prepared its policy after studying the industrial and investment policies of various States. The government is focusing on policies conducive to industries and facilities to ensure that as many industries as possible are established in the State, she said.

It is pertinent to mention here that the State government is also planning to hold the first international road show for the global investors summit from September 25 to 28 in London. Dhami will also participate in this event. Similar events will be held during the first week of October in Singapore and Taiwan while road shows in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will be held from October 16 to 20.
Delhi Chief Minister and AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal, at a meeting with Punjab industrialists in Amritsar on Thursday, said the Mann government considers them partners without whom the state's development won't be possible.



Kejriwal, along with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, assured that the AAP government in Punjab will give a congenial atmosphere to the industry to flourish. At the townhall meeting, Kejriwal, who arrived on a three-day Punjab visit on Wednesday, said the previous governments used to see industrialists with "shak ki nigah" (eye of suspicion) and always think how much they can milk them, but the present government considers them "our partners". "We consider you our partners. Punjab's development cannot be possible without you," said Kejriwal.

Addressing the gathering, Mann said, "In Amritsar, we will establish a police unit related to tourism". This will be started as a pilot project in Amritsar, which sees heavy tourist footfall each day. The personnel in this unit will have a special uniform so that tourists can identify them from a distance and they will extend all kinds of help which tourists may need, he said. In another initiative in traffic, Mann said, "We will introduce artificial intelligence." Punjab has also decided to set up Sadak Suraksha Force and police department will be given 129 SUVs where cops will patrol every 30 km radius in the state and also extend a helping hand to accident victims. Mann also said that two cities, Amritsar and Patiala, have been chosen for pilot project where electric shuttle buses will be introduced.

Kejriwal said that he wants Punjab's industry to flourish and Amritsar to regain its glory for which it was once famous decades ago. He told the entrepreneurs that before assembly polls, AAP had held a townhall in Amritsar in which they had put some problems and given some suggestions. "We had given you some guarantees. Now, many other parties too have started to talk guarantee, guarantee. But the guarantee which we give, no other party can give as it is Kejriwal ki guarantee. What we say, we fulfil that," he said.



The AAP convener said it is essential that the industry within the state should be first taken care of and their issues redressed. He also said that in some states big investors meetings are held and then it is claimed that MoUs worth crores of rupees were signed, but later on it is found that these don't materialise on ground. "But the Punjab chief minister went to Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Chennai, and held one-on-one meetings with industrialists. These meetings are converting in investments," he said.



During 18 months of Mann government, over Rs 50,000 crore investments have come in Punjab, he claimed, adding that it as a big achievement and will create 2.86 lakh jobs. Kejriwal also said that when youths get jobs, those of whom who have got into drug problem, will also get weaned away. During the last 15-20 years, such atmosphere prevailed in Punjab that most industries shifted to other states, he said.



Kejriwal asked Mann to hold dialogue with the industry representatives every three-four months to listen to their concerns. The AAP chief also lavished praise on Mann. "When Mann sahab, whom I consider as my younger brother, became the CM, many said he is an artiste and had doubt whether he will be able to run the government or not. "Today, I can say he is one of the best administrators in the country and this I am saying based on the feedback people are giving. He is proving to be one of the best chief ministers which Punjab has produced so far," he said. During recent floods, Mann was going to every affected village and not making aerial surveys, he said.



Kejriwal said corruption has been reined to a large extent in the state and in the industrial sector too, the Mann government is doing a good job. There have been 2.75 lakh new MSME registrations in the state, he said.

Mann said industrialists trust in the government when they get a corruption-free atmosphere and good law and order. About the recently held tourism summit in Mohali, Mann said that about Rs 1,200 crore-Rs 1,500 crore investments will come which industrialists have promised to invest in hotel industry, upcoming Film City, and eco-tourism, among others.
Pakistans caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar has said that the law enforcement agencies will decide about arresting former premier Nawaz Sharif upon his return to the country from self-imposed exile next month. Kakar made the remarks during an interview with SAMAA TV on Wednesday when asked about any action against 73-year-old Nawaz upon his arrival in Pakistan.

In February 2020, Nawaz was declared an absconder. Later in the same year, an accountability court declared him a proclaimed offender in the Toshakhana vehicles reference. The law enforcement agencies (LEAs) will decide this matter in light of the law. If they think he (Nawaz) should be chained then they will adopt that path and vice versa, Kakar said when the host asked whether Nawaz would be handcuffed or not on his return. He said that the leadership of LEAs would decide the issue of his arrest to the best of their ability.

I reiterate that the leadership of legal and law enforcement agencies is present. Whatever they decide, whether they send him (Nawaz) behind bars or allow freedom of movement, it will be the decision of the leadership of the judicial process and law enforcement, he said.

However, the prime minister said that the government could intervene if it felt that either Nawaz or LEAs were defying the law.

On Tuesday, Nawazs younger brother and PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif said in London that his brother would return to Pakistan from the UK on October 21 to lead the partys political campaign in the upcoming elections. Nawaz left for London in November 2019 after the Lahore High Court granted him four-week permission to go abroad for his treatment. But he never returned to Pakistan where he was convicted of corruption and jailed.

He was convicted in the Al-Azizia Mills and Avenfield corruption cases in 2018. He was serving a seven-year imprisonment at Lahores Kot Lakhpat jail in the Al-Azizia Mills case when he was allowed to proceed to London in 2019 on medical grounds.

Shehbaz has previously said that Nawaz will be the next prime minister if the party returns to power in the general elections.

In 2016, Nawaz stepped down as the prime minister after the Supreme Court disqualified him for life for concealing assets. His appeals against the conviction are currently pending in the relevant courts.

He was disqualified by the Supreme Court in 2017. In 2018, he became ineligible to hold public office for life after a Supreme Court verdict in the Panama Papers case.

Nawaz is considered a crowd-puller and a major force to bring voters to the polling stations.
(): At least 10 government soldiers were killed on Tuesday during an attack by armed groups in northern Mali, the nations armed forces said, amid ongoing deadly violence in the hard-hit region and as United Nations peacekeepers continue their withdrawal.

A coalition of former rebels known as the Permanent Strategic Framework for Peace, Security and Development claimed responsibility for the attack in the city of Bourem in Gao region and said they have captured parts of the city.

The development signalled a failure of a 2015 agreement which the former rebels signed with Malian authorities to stop their rebellion.

Malian security forces repelled the attack with booby-trapped vehicles by several terrorists aboard several vehicles and motorcycles in the locality of Bourem, according to a statement issued by Col. Souleymane Dembele, a spokesman for the Malian Armed Forces.

He said 13 soldiers were wounded in the incident while 46 of the attackers were killed. Claiming responsibility for the attack in an earlier statement on Tuesday the former rebels also said they have begun operations by taking several positions in Bourem, a small city where jihadi groups have also been fighting the security forces.

Tuesdays attack comes days after jihadi fighters killed 49 civilians and 15 government soldiers when they targeted a passenger boat near the city of Timbuktu on the Niger River and a military position in Bamba further downstream in Gao.

The violence by the jihadi groups is worsened by recent attacks by the former rebels, who are Tuareg independence fighters that drove security forces out of northern Mali in 2012 as they sought to create the state of Azawad in northern Mali before the 2015 agreement with the government to cease fighting. In August 2020, Malis president was overthrown in a coup that included an army colonel who carried out a second coup and was sworn in as president in June 2021. He developed ties to Russias military and Russias Wagner mercenary group but authorities have struggled to end the violence in parts of the country. AP
Pakistan President Arif Alvi on Wednesday unilaterally proposed November 6 as the date for the general elections in a letter written to the chief election commissioner, amidst controversy over polling dates in the cash-strapped country.

In his letter to CEC Sikandar Sultan Raja, President Alvi cited Article 48(5) of the Constitution, which he said: empowers and mandates the president to appoint a date not later than 90 days from the date of the dissolution, for the holding of a general election to the Assembly.

Hence, in terms of Article 48(5), the general election to the National Assembly should be held by the 89th day of the date of dissolution of the National Assembly, i.e. Monday, 6th day of November 2023, wrote Alvi, who was a founding member of jailed former prime minister Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party.

Alvi wrote that in an endeavour to fulfil the constitutional obligations, the chief election commissioner was invited for a meeting to devise the modalities of implementing the constitutional intent and mandate.

However, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) chief turned down the invitation by saying that the president had nothing to do with the election date.

Alvi in his letter alluded to Rajas response, saying that the CEC took a contrary view that as per the scheme of the Constitution and framework of electoral laws, it was the domain of the Election Commission, and following the publication of last preceding census on August 7, duly notified delimitation of constituencies was in progress, a mandatory requirement stipulated by Article 51(5) of the Constitution and section 17 of the Elections Act, 2017.

Interestingly, President Alvis five-year term ended last week. Under the Constitution, he will continue to serve as head of state until the next presidential elections, which will take place after general polls in the country.

The development comes two days after President Alvi met with the caretaker Law Minister Ahmed Irfan Aslam on Monday to discuss the elections.

The National Assembly was dissolved on August 9 making it mandatory to hold elections within 90 days. However, the previous government just days before the end of its term endorsed the results of the countrywide census.

The decision made it mandatory for the election commission to devise new electoral districts before elections for which it has been provided 120 days by the constitution of the country.

The ECP has announced to complete the delimitation process by November 30 and then announce election schedules which are expected to be held in January. However, the president and some political parties insist that the elections should be held within 90 days.

There is another controversy as the president insists that he got the powers under the Constitution to set a date for elections which is disputed by many including the ECP. The counterargument is that he lost power to set a date after tweaks in election laws by the previous government and now the ECP is empowered to set a date.
Benchmark Sensex closed higher by 94 points while the broader Nifty retreated from record high levels in a volatile trading on Tuesday as investors turned cautious amid high valuation concerns.

Rising for an eighth day in a row, the 30-share BSE Sensex rose by 94.05 points or 0.14 per cent to settle at 67,221.13. During the day, it jumped 412.02 points or 0.61 per cent to 67,539.10.

The broader Nifty, however, pared all its gains and ended marginally lower by 3.15 points or 0.02 per cent at 19,993.20. During the day, the 50-issue barometer climbed 114 points or 0.57 per cent to hit its all-time high of 20,110.35.

Among the Sensex firms, Tata Consultancy Services, Larsen & Toubro, Infosys, UltraTech Cement, ICICI Bank, Nestle, ITC and Sun Pharma were the major gainers.

Power Grid, NTPC, Tata Motors, Tata Steel, Mahindra & Mahindra and Reliance Industries were among the laggards. The level of pessimism has risen in the stock market leading to a precautionary approach to book profits on a notion that the valuation has extended beyond the rationale. The correction is happening on midcaps while largecaps are maintaining their strength.

This cautious trend can prevail in the short-term, but the end-game is on the rise of the domestic economy, surprising upside in corporate earnings, and change in domestic investment patterns, which is expected to continue on a long-term basis, said Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Financial Services.

In the broader market, the BSE smallcap gauge tumbled 4.02 per cent and midcap index fell by 2.96 per cent.

Among the indices, utilities tanked 3.74 per cent, power declined by 3.66 per cent, telecommunication (3.63 per cent), realty (3.26 per cent), oil & gas (3.07 per cent), energy (2.77 per cent) and industrials (2.76 per cent). IT, bankex and teck were the gainers.

In Asian markets, Tokyo settled in the green while Seoul, Shanghai and Hong Kong ended lower. European markets were trading on a mixed note. The US stocks ended in positive territory on Monday.

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) turned buyers on Monday as they bought equities worth Rs 1,473.09 crore, according to exchange data.

Global oil benchmark Brent crude climbed 0.74 per cent to USD 91.31 a barrel.

The 30-share BSE benchmark regained the 67,000 level on Monday. The benchmark jumped 528.17 points or 0.79 per cent to settle at 67,127.08. The Nifty ended at 19,996.35, reflecting a gain of 176.40 points or 0.89 per cent.

The Nifty scaled the record 20,000 mark for the first time ever in intra-day trade.
Associated British Foods plc operates as a diversified food, ingredients, and retail company worldwide. It operates through five segments: Grocery, Sugar, Agriculture, Ingredients, and Retail. The Grocery segment manufactures and sells grocery products, including hot beverages, sugar and sweeteners, vegetable oils, balsamic vinegars, bread and baked goods, cereals, ethnic foods, and meat products to retail, wholesale, and foodservice businesses. The Sugar segment is involved in growing, processing, and selling sugar beet and sugar cane to industrial users. The Agriculture segment manufactures and sells animal feeds; and provides other products and services for the agriculture sector. The Ingredients segment manufactures bakers' yeast, bakery ingredients, enzymes, lipids, yeast extracts, and cereal specialties. The Retail segment is involved in buying and merchandising clothing and accessories through the Primark and Penneys retail chains, which offer womenswear, menswear, kids wear, accessories, homeware, and beauty products. The company was incorporated in 1934 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom. Associated British Foods plc is a subsidiary of Wittington Investments Limited.
Polaris Inc. designs, engineers, manufactures, and markets powersports vehicles worldwide. It operates through three segments: Off-Road, On-Road, and Marine. The company offers off-road vehicles (ORVs), including all-terrain vehicles and side-by-side vehicles; military and commercial ORVs; snowmobiles; motorcycles; moto-roadsters, quadricycles, and boats; and aftermarket parts and apparel. It also provides ORV accessories comprising winches, bumper/brushguards, plows, racks, wheels and tires, pull-behinds, cab systems, lighting and audio systems, cargo box accessories, tracks, and oil; snowmobile accessories, which include covers, traction products, reverse kits, electric starters, tracks, bags, windshields, oil, and lubricants; and motorcycle accessories, such as saddle bags, handlebars, backrests, exhausts, windshields, seats, oil, and various chrome accessories. In addition, the company offers light duty hauling and passenger vehicles; gear and apparel, such as helmets, goggles, jackets, gloves, boots, bibs, hats, pants, and leathers; and pontoon and deck boats. It provides its products through dealers and distributors, and online; and retail and e-commerce sites. The company was formerly known as Polaris Industries Inc. Polaris Inc. was founded in 1945 and is headquartered in Medina, Minnesota.
Equinox Gold Corp. engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral deposits. The company's principal properties include the Aurizona project covering a total land package of approximately 223,160 hectares located in Maranhao State, Brazil; and the Castle Mountain property situated in California, the United States. It primarily explores for gold, copper, and silver deposits. The company was formerly known as Trek Mining Inc. and changed its name to Equinox Gold Corp. in December 2017. Equinox Gold Corp. was founded in 2007 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada.
Exxon Mobil Corporation is the largest direct descendent of John D. Rockefellers Standard Oil and one of the worlds largest companies. Its earliest roots lie with Vacuum Oil which got its start in the 1860s. Vacuum Oils primary product was kerosene, an important advancement for heating and lighting in rural America. Vacuum Oil was later merged with Standard Oil of New Jersey which was the parent operation of the Standard Oil empire prior to its breakup. Standard Oil of New Jersey would merge with other independent operators over the next few years until settling on the brand Exxon for most of its operations.

Meanwhile, Standard Oil of New York was operating under much the same impetus, merging and growing, until it became known as Mobil. Then, in 1999, the two giants became one with a merger of equals that on paper had Exxon buying Mobil. Now, the combined company operates under the Exxon, Mobil, and Esso brands as an international vertically integrated energy and petrochemical business.

Today, the company explores and produces crude oil and natural gas and their derivative products globally. As of 2022, it was ranked 6th on Forbes Fortune 500 list and 12th on the Global 500 list but it has held positions from #1 to #10 over the years. In terms of its operations, it is the worlds second-largest oil refiner and the largest refiner outside of China. In terms of reserves, ExxonMobil claimed about 18.5 million barrels of oil and oil equivalents at the end of 2021 and was ranked 15th globally.

ExxonMobil operates through three segments that are the Upstream, Downstream, and Chemical segments. The Upstream segment explores for and produces oil and oil equivalents and represents roughly 70% of the income. The Downstream segment gathers, receives, stores, transports and refines oil and equivalents and their derivatives. The Downstream segment also markets and delivers fuel products to consumers and businesses. The Chemicals segment produces the full range of petrochemicals including plastics, resins and synthetic rubber.

ExxonMobil is committed to advancing sustainable and carbon-free energy solutions. The company is targeting 2050 for net-zero emissions and its 2030 interim targets are in alignment with the Paris Accord, the EU's Global Methane Pledge, and US Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan. The companys plans include investing $15 billion into reducing greenhouse emissions by 2028.






Truist Financial Corporation is an American bank holding company that provides various financial services to individuals and businesses. The company was formed in December 2019 through the merger of BB&T Corporation, and SunTrust Banks, Inc. Truist Financial Corporation is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina and operates over 2,500 branches in 15 states and over 3,000 ATMs across the United States. The company aims to help clients achieve financial confidence and security through personalized financial solutions.

A diverse and competent team leads Truist Financial Corporation, with William H. Rogers Jr. as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. Previously, William Rogers was the Chief Operating Officer for Truist with a history of working in different senior management positions starting in 1980. Also notable on the executive leadership team is Mark Maguire, the Chief Operating Officer with over 20 years of tenure at Truist working in multiple sectors, from merchant services to consumer finance.

Truist Financial Corporation has mixed financial performance, with stagnant revenue growth over the past few years. The company reported a 4% increase on average in the past few years. Truist Financial Corporation maintains a healthy balance sheet, with assets sufficient to cover liabilities. The company's debt-to-equity ratio indicates a moderate level of debt. Truist Financial Corporation trades at a price-to-earnings ratio lower than the industry average. The company's price-to-book ratio is slightly lower than the industry average. These metrics suggest that Truist Financial Corporation is possibly undervalued relative to its peers. Truist Financial Corporation has performed on par with industry peers over the past year.

Truist Financial Corporation operates in the highly competitive banking industry, subject to various regulatory and political issues. The industry is dominated by a few prominent players, including JPMorgan Chase & Co., Bank of America Corporation, and Wells Fargo & Company. Truist Financial Corporation competes primarily based on its ability to provide personalized financial solutions to its clients. Technological advancements have also impacted the banking industry, enabling digital banks and fintech companies to compete with traditional banks. Truist Financial Corporation has responded to this trend by investing in its digital capabilities and launching new digital products and services.

Truist Financial Corporation has several growth opportunities that enable the company to expand its business and increase its market share. The company has announced plans to expand its presence in several key markets, including Texas and California, through acquisitions and organic growth. Truist Financial Corporation has also invested in its digital capabilities, which has allowed the company to provide a range of digital banking services to its clients. The company's digital banking platform, Truist Digital, offers a range of features, including mobile banking, online banking, and digital payments. In addition, Truist Financial Corporation has announced plans to launch a new digital bank, Truist Bank, which will offer clients a range of innovative financial solutions.

Truist Financial Corporation has also identified several growth opportunities in its commercial banking business. The company has announced plans to expand its commercial lending capabilities, focusing on lending to small and mid-sized companies. Truist Financial Corporation has also identified opportunities to grow its wealth management business, focusing on serving high-net-worth clients.

Truist Financial Corporation faces risks and challenges that may impact its future performance. One of the company's most significant risks is the potential for increased competition from digital banks and fintech companies. These companies have rapidly gained market share by offering innovative financial solutions and leveraging technology to improve customer experience. Truist Financial Corporation has responded to this challenge by investing in its digital capabilities and launching new digital products and services.

Another risk facing Truist Financial Corporation is the potential for increased regulatory and political pressure. The banking industry is heavily regulated, and regulation changes can significantly impact the industry. Truist Financial Corporation has a strong compliance culture and is well-positioned to adapt to changes in regulatory requirements.

Truist Financial Corporation may face challenges maintaining its strong financial performance during economic downturns or other external factors. The company's strong balance sheet and conservative approach to risk management should help mitigate these risks. However, there is always the potential for unexpected events to impact the company's financial performance.
The following companies are subsidiares of L3Harris Technologies: 1231670 Ontario Inc, ASV Global LLC, Aastra Digital Video, AeroElite Limited, Aerosim Academy Inc, Aerosim Technologies Inc, Applied Defense Solutions Inc, Applied Kilovolts Limited, Asian Aviation Training Centre Ltd, Audio Broadcast Group Inc, Autonomous Surface Vehicles LLC, Autonomous Surface Vehicles Limited, Aviation Communication & Surveillance Systems LLC, Aydin Yazilim ve Elektronik Sanayi AS, Azimuth Security LLC, Azimuth Security Pty Ltd, Azimuth Security Trust, Beijing MAPPS-SERI Technology Company Ltd, CHOICE Microsystems Inc, CK Industrial Engineers Limited, CR MSA LLC, CTC Aviation Training (UK) Limited, Calzoni Srl, Carefx, Core180 Inc., Crucial Security, DMRAC-Aviation Corporation - SGPS Unipessoal LDA, Defence Investments Limited, EAA  Escola de Aviacao Aerocondor SA, EDO (UK) Ltd, EDO MBM Technology Ltd, EDO Western Corporation, EMC Srl, Eagle Technology LLC, ElectroDynamics Inc, Encoda Systems Holdings Inc, Exelis, Exelis Arctic Services, Exelis Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, Exelis Australia Pty Ltd, Exelis Holdings Inc, Exigent International Inc, Felec Services Inc, Flight Data Services Limited, ForceX Inc, G Air Advanced Training Lda, G Air II Maintenance Lda, G4U  Gestao de Activos Aeronauticos Sociedade Lda, Hamilton BioVentures LP, Harris Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd, Harris Atlas Systems LLC, Harris C4i Pty Ltd, Harris Canada Systems Inc, Harris CapRock Communications, Harris Cayman Ltd, Harris Communications (Australia) Pty Ltd, Harris Communications (Spain) S L, Harris Communications FZCO, Harris Communications GmbH, Harris Communications Limited, Harris Communications MH Spain S L, Harris Communications Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Harris Communications Pakistan (Private) Limited, Harris Communications Systems India Private Limited, Harris Comunicacoes e Participacoes do Brasil Ltda, Harris Defence Ltd, Harris Denmark ApS, Harris Denmark Holding ApS, Harris Geospatial Solutions BV, Harris Geospatial Solutions France SARL, Harris Geospatial Solutions GmbH, Harris Geospatial Solutions Inc, Harris Geospatial Solutions Italia SRL, Harris Geospatial Solutions KK, Harris Geospatial Solutions UK Limited, Harris Global Communications Inc, Harris Holdco LLC, Harris International Chile Limitada, Harris International Holdings LLC, Harris International Inc, Harris International Saudi Communications, Harris International Venezuela CA, Harris Luxembourg Sarl, Harris NV, Harris Orthogon GmbH, Harris Pension Management Limited, Harris Solid-State (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Harris Systems Limited, Hirschmann Multimedia Communications Networks, Honeywell TCAS Inc, ImageLinks Inc, Intraplex Inc, Jariet Technologies, L-3 Brasil Importacao Exportacao e Comercio Ltda, L-3 Communications, L-3 Communications Integrated Systems LP, L-3 Communications Investments Inc, L-3 Communications Korea Co Ltd, L-3 Communications Limited, L-3 Communications UK Ltd, L-3 Domestic Holdings Inc, L-3 Global Holding UK Ltd, L-3 International UK Ltd, L-3 Security Equipment Trading (Beijing) Co Ltd, L-3 Societa Srl, L-3 Technology & Services UK Ltd, L-Tres Comunicaciones Costa Rica SA, L3 Applied Technologies Inc, L3 Australia Group Pty Ltd, L3 Aviation Products Inc, L3 CTS Airline Academy (NZ) Limited, L3 CTS Airline and Academy Training Limited, L3 Cincinnati Electronics Corporation, L3 Commercial Training Solutions Limited, L3 Doss Aviation Inc, L3 ESSCO Inc, L3 Electron Devices Inc, L3 Foreign Holdings Inc, L3 Fuzing and Ordnance Systems Inc, L3 International Australia Pty Ltd, L3 Investments LLC, L3 Investments UK Holdings Ltd, L3 Kenya LTD, L3 Kigre Inc, L3 Latitude LLC, L3 MAPPS INC, L3 MAPPS Limited, L3 MAPPS Sdn Bhd, L3 Magnet-Motor GmbH, L3 Micreo Pty Limited, L3 Oceania Pty Limited, L3 Open Water Power Inc, L3 Security and Detection Systems Inc, L3 Technologies Australia Group Pty Ltd, L3 Technologies Canada Group Inc, L3 Technologies Canada Inc, L3 Technologies Inc, L3 Technologies Investments Limited, L3 Technologies MAS Inc, L3 Technologies UK Group Ltd, L3 Unidyne Inc, L3 Unmanned Systems Inc, L3 Westwood Corporation, L3Harris Technologies, Leitch Technology Corporation, Linchpin Labs Limited, Linchpin Labs Pty Limited, Louth Automation, MacDonald Humfrey (Automation) SEA PTE Ltd, MacDonald Humfrey Automation Middle East Control Systems LLC, Manatee Investment LLC, Manu Kai LLC, Melbourne Leasing LLC, Multimax Inc, Mustang Technology Group LP, Narda Safety Test Solutions Srl, NexGen Communications LLC, Northeast Broadcast Lab Inc, NovAtel Communications, Optimal Solutions Inc, Orkand Corporation, Pacific Research & Engineering Corporation, Patriot Technologies, Peak Nano Optics LLC, Power Paragon Inc, Riptide Autonomous Solutions LLC, SARL Assured Communications, SC Harris Assured Communications SRL, SPD Electrical Systems Inc, SignaCert, Sovcan Star Satellite Communications Inc, Sunshine General Services LLC, Tyco Electronics Wireless, Tyco Electronics Wireless Systems, Wavtrace Inc, Wescam USA Inc, and Zandar Technologies.

Read More
FedEx Corporation is a global courier delivery services company headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, USA. Founded in 1971, it is one of the largest logistics companies in the world, with operations in over 220 countries and territories. FedEx offers various services, including express shipping, ground shipping, freight forwarding, and e-commerce solutions. The company has over 600 aircraft and more than 180,000 vehicles in its fleet and employs over 600,000 people worldwide.

Frederick W. Smith is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of FedEx Corporation. He has been at the company's helm since its inception and has been instrumental in its growth and success. In 2022 Frederick Smith passed the baton to Raj Subramaniam. Raj Subramaniam has over thirty years of leadership experience and moved into the CEO role from his role as Chief Operating Officer (COO). In recent years, the company has made a few critical changes in its leadership team, including the appointment of Lance Moll as President and CEO of FedEx Freight in 2020, who started his career as a manager at a FedEx distribution center.

FedEx reported that revenue has risen at an excellent pace yearly for several years. Net income, while only a fraction of revenue, is pacing in growth with the revenue. This is due to FedEx maintaining a healthy profit margin, with a net profit margin of approximately 3.5%. The company has also been actively managing debt to reduce its debt levels. Total assets on hand are robust enough to cover total liabilities within the company. FedEx has a price-to-earnings ratio lower than the industry average and a price-to-book ratio lower than the industry average. These valuation metrics suggest that the company's stock may be undervalued compared to its peers. FedEx's stock had performed well in recent years, with the stock price recovering from a tumble in 2022 when FedEx pulled its earnings forecast due to worsening business conditions.

FedEx operates in the highly competitive logistics and courier delivery services industry with low margins and intense competition. The company faces competition from established players like UPS and DHL and newer entrants like Amazon, which has been expanding its delivery network. The industry is also subject to regulatory and political pressures, such as changes in trade policies and tariffs, which can impact the flow of goods across borders.

Despite the challenges in the industry, FedEx has several growth opportunities. The company has expanded its e-commerce capabilities by acquiring ShopRunner, a membership-based e-commerce platform, in 2021. The company has also invested in autonomous delivery technology, launching the FedEx SameDay Bot, designed to make deliveries in urban areas. In addition, the company has been expanding its presence in healthcare logistics by acquiring Cargex in 2021.

Several risks and challenges could impact FedEx's future growth prospects. One significant risk is the potential for changes in consumer preferences, particularly with the growth of online shopping and the increasing demand for faster and more convenient delivery options. The company also faces regulatory risks, particularly with changes in trade policies and tariffs. Competitive pressures are also a significant challenge, with Amazon expanding its delivery network and other logistics companies competing for market share. Finally, the company is also subject to risks related to its operations, such as disruptions to its supply chain or the impact of natural disasters on its infrastructure.
Kirby Corporation operates domestic tank barges in the United States. Its Marine Transportation segment provides marine transportation service and towing vessel transporting bulk liquid product, as well as operates tank barge throughout the Mississippi River System, on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, coastwise along three United States coasts, and in Alaska and Hawaii. It also transports petrochemicals, black oils, refined petroleum products, and agricultural chemicals by tank barges; and operates offshore dry-bulk barges and tugboat units that are engaged in the offshore transportation of dry-bulk cargos in the United States coastal trade. As of December 31, 2022, it owned and operated 1,037 inland tank barge, approximately 277 inland towboat, 29 coastal tank barge, 27 coastal tugboat, 4 offshore dry-bulk cargo barge, 4 offshore tugboat, and 1 docking tugboat. Its Distribution and Services segment sells after-market service and genuine replacement parts for engines, transmissions, reduction gears, electric motors, drives, and controls, electrical distribution and control systems, energy storage battery systems, and related oilfield service equipment; rebuilds component parts or diesel engines, transmissions and reduction gears, and related equipment used in oilfield services, marine, power generation, on-highway, and other industrial applications; rents generators, industrial compressors, high capacity lift trucks, and refrigeration trailers; and manufactures and remanufactures oilfield service equipment, including pressure pumping units, as well as manufacturers electric power generation equipment, specialized electrical distribution and control equipment, and high capacity energy storage/battery systems. It serves to various companies and the United States government. The company was formerly known as Kirby Exploration Company, Inc. and changed its name to Kirby Corporation in 1990. Kirby Corporation was founded in 1921 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.
Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM) pays an annual dividend of $5.20 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 5.94%. PM has a dividend yield higher than 75% of all dividend-paying stocks, making it a leading dividend payer. The company has been increasing its dividend for 16 consecutive years, indicating the company has a strong committment to maintain and grow its dividend. The dividend payout ratio is 100.97%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on EPS estimates, PM will have a dividend payout ratio of 79.03% in the coming year. This indicates that the company may not be able to sustain their current dividend.

Read our dividend analysis for PM.
CBIZ, Inc. provides financial, insurance, and advisory services in the United States and Canada. It operates through three segments: Financial Services, Benefits and Insurance Services, and National Practices. The Financial Services segment offers accounting and tax, financial advisory, valuation, risk and advisory, and government healthcare consulting services. The Benefits and Insurance Services provides employee benefits consulting, payroll/human capital management, property and casualty insurance, and retirement and investment services. The National Practices segment offers information technology managed networking and hardware, and health care consulting services. The company primarily serves small and medium-sized businesses, as well as individuals, governmental entities, and not-for-profit enterprises. CBIZ, Inc. was incorporated in 1987 and is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio.
Abbott Laboratories is a global healthcare company specializing in developing, manufacturing and marketing a wide range of healthcare products. The company has its headquarters in Abbott Park, Illinois and operates in more than 160 countries worldwide.

The company was founded in 1888 by Dr. Wallace C. Abbott, and it has since grown to become one of the world's largest and most respected healthcare companies. Abbott Laboratories has a diverse portfolio of products, including medical devices, diagnostic tests, nutritional products, and branded generic pharmaceuticals. The company is committed to developing innovative products that improve the quality of life for people worldwide.

Robert B. Ford is the current President and CEO of the company. He was appointed to this position in 2020 after serving as the company's Chief Operating Officer. He has been with Abbott Laboratories since 1996 and has held various leadership positions.

Abbott Laboratories has delivered strong financial performance, declining as investors seek growth. The company's net earnings have been increasing steadily. Abbott Laboratories has a solid balance sheet with a low debt-to-equity ratio. The company has consistently delivered strong cash flow, allowing it to invest in research and development and return value to shareholders. Abbott Laboratories has a higher price-to-earnings ratio than the industry average, and the company's price-to-book ratio is also higher than the industry average. These metrics suggest that the market has a positive outlook on Abbott Laboratories and is willing to pay a premium for the company's shares. Over the past year, Abbott Laboratories' stock has declined as consumers seek to see what the company will do post-pandemic. The company's shares have experienced some volatility, but overall, they have outperformed the broader market.

Abbott Laboratories operates in the healthcare industry, which is highly regulated and complex. The industry is characterized by rapidly evolving technology, changing regulatory requirements, and shifting consumer preferences. Abbott Laboratories competes with other large healthcare companies such as Johnson & Johnson.

Abbott Laboratories' robust product pipeline is expected to drive growth in the coming years. The company is focused on developing innovative products that address unmet medical needs and improve patient outcomes. In addition to its core businesses, Abbott Laboratories is expanding into new markets and investing in digital health technologies.

Like any company, Abbott Laboratories faces a range of risks and challenges. One of the most significant risks facing the company is regulatory uncertainty. Changes in regulatory requirements could impact the company's ability to bring products to market and could also increase the cost of doing business. Another risk facing the company is the threat of competitive pressures. The healthcare industry is highly competitive, and Abbott Laboratories faces competition from established companies and new entrants. Changes in consumer preferences could also impact the company's performance, particularly in the nutritional products segment.

Additionally, Abbott Laboratories is exposed to geopolitical risks, such as changes in trade policies or political instability in key markets. The company's international operations also expose it to currency fluctuations, which could impact its financial performance.
Merck & Co., Inc. is a US-based multinational pharmaceutical and healthcare company. It was officially founded in 1891 as the US arm of Merck Group, headquartered in Germany. Merck Group was founded in 1668 when Friedrick Jacob Merck purchased a pharmacy in Darmstadt, Germany. The company transformed from a pharmacy into a drug manufacturer in 1827 with the commercialization of morphine and the perfection of the manufacturing process. The company will later gain recognition for isolating and commercializing the manufacture of cocaine as well.

Merck Group sent Theodore Weicker to New York as its representative in 1889 and he quickly began to set up operations. The original investment of $200,000 resulted in a facility in lower Manhattan and the addition of Merck family member George Merck to the project. They began operations in 1891 and were in business as the US branch of Merck Group until 1917 and the onset of World War I.

World War I brought about the Trading With The Enemy Act of 1917 and the nationalization of Merck Groups US operations. Those operations were repurchased at a government auction only 2 years later with the help of Goldman Sachs and Lehman Brothers, but the split was done. The company retained rights to the Merck name in the US but remained independent. One of many noteworthy achievements in the post-War period is the discovery of streptomycin, which was revolutionary in treating tuberculosis.

In 1953 the company merged with Sharp& Dohme to form the then 2nd largest US drug manufacturer. The merger brought smallpox vaccines to the portfolio and opened a new avenue of research for the business. Since then, advancements in vaccine technology include treatments for mumps and chickenpox. Other notable advancements include the discovery of statins as a cholesterol inhibitor and work in veterinary medicine.

Today, Merck & Co operates through 2 segments and under 2 different names with a headquarters in Kenilworth, NJ. The company operates as Merck & Co in the US and as Merck Sharp & Dohme outside the US and Canada. The 2 segments are Pharmaceutical and Animal Health. Revenue topped $49 billion in 2022 and employed more than 68,000 people. The company has 8 research facilities near major university systems, including 7 in the US and 1 in the UK. As of 2022, the company had 82 pipeline products in Phase 2 trials, 30 in Phase 3 trials and 3 under review.

The Pharmaceutical segment researches discover and commercializes human health products in several areas of medicine. These include but are not limited to oncology, acute care, immunology, neuroscience, virology, cardiovascular, and diabetes. This segment has 6 blockbuster drugs as of late 2022, with each generating more than $1 billion in revenue. The leading treatments are Keytruda for treating cancer-related immune conditions, Gardisil which is a vaccine for HPV and Januvia for treating Type-II diabetes. The Animal Health segment discovers, develops, manufactures, and markets veterinary healthcare products and services. Both segments sell to healthcare facilities and distributors.
iShares Gold Trust (the Trust) is to own gold transferred to the Trust in exchange for shares issued by the Trust (Shares). Each Share represents a fractional undivided beneficial interest in the net assets of the Trust. The assets of the Trust consist of gold held by the Trust's custodian on behalf of the Trust. The sponsor of the Trust is iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC (the Sponsor), which is an indirect subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc. The trustee of the Trust is The Bank of New York Mellon (the Trustee) and the custodian of the Trust is JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., London branch (the Custodian). The activities of the Trust are limited to issuing Baskets of Shares in exchange for the gold deposited with the Custodian as consideration; selling gold as necessary to cover the Sponsor's fee, Trust expenses not assumed by the Sponsor and other liabilities, and delivering gold in exchange for Baskets of Shares surrendered for redemption. The Trust is not actively managed.
Cooperate with China to ensure global food security: IFAD President

(People's Daily App) 15:24, September 14, 2023

China has achieved great success in agricultural and rural development in the past decades, Alvaro Lario, the President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) told Peoples Daily in an interview. Lario said the IFAD is looking forward to taking a leaf out of China's playbook to combat poverty and improve food security. He also vowed to boost cooperation with China to ensure global food security and accelerate global development.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
A photo of Jaahnavi Kandula is displayed with flowers, Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023 in Seattle, at the intersection where she was killed by a Seattle Police officer driving north while responding to a nearby medical incident. A city watchdog agency is investigating after a body-worn camera captured one Seattle Police Department union leader joking with another following the death of a Kandula, who was struck and killed by a police cruiser as she was crossing a street. (AP)

Kurnool: The US accident leading to the death of a 23-year-old student Jaahnavi Kandula from Adoni, on January 25 last, was caused by a Seattle Police car, video shots released on social media showed. It also carried some harsh comments from a senior cop.

The police bodycam footage about the horrible mishap went viral on social media platforms this week.

Kandula Jaahnavi, who had gone to Seattle from Adoni in Kurnool district in 2021, was pursuing her Master's degree in Information Systems at the Seattle campus of Northeastern University. Her graduation was expected by December next.

The King County prosecuting attorneys office is conducting a criminal review of the crash to determine whether any criminal charges were warranted.

The incident came to public attention when the body-worn camera footage captured Daniel Auderer, the vice-president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, being engaged in a phone conversation shortly after the accident occurred.

Auderer had arrived at the scene of the accident, where the police vehicle of officer Kevin Dave, who was responding at high speed to another mishap call, had hit and fatally injured Jaahnavi.

In the recorded conversation, Auderer's comments were insensitive. He was heard suggesting that Kandula's life had "limited value" and even proposed that the city should simply "write a cheque."

This incident brought to the fore questions about accountability within the police department in Seattle and about the wrong behaviour of police officers.

The victims mother, Kandula Vijayalakshmi, who resides at MIG Colony in Adoni, made no comment, but said the family did not expect any compensation from the US government.
Telugu Desam president Nara Chandrababu Naidu (Twitter)

Hyderabad: The skill development scam in Andhra Pradesh, in which former chief minister N. Chandrababu Naidu was arrested, is a classic case of corruption of the Telugu Desam government awarding Rs 370 crore project to a private company on nomination basis without inviting tenders and releasing 90 per cent of the project cost without even evaluating the actual cost of hardware and software supplied by the private company, all in the know of Naidu.

According to the provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, as told by a former Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) chief on condition of anonymity, the investigating agency need not even prove the benefits personally accrued by Naidu in the scam. Establishing his wilful acts benefiting the private company and causing loss to the exchequer is itself sufficient, he added.

The documentary evidence available with Deccan Chronicle established, though in a rare, the involvement, rather the acts of omission and commission, of then chief minister right from inception of the A P Skill Development Corporation to appointment of people loyal to him to head the project on behalf of the government and more importantly arranging free flow of funds to the private company without any checks and balances. He overruled the safeguarding mechanisms suggested by the officials who, like in the case of then finance special chief secretary Dr P.V. Ramesh, clearly put the onus of releasing funds on Naidu in their respective note filings. The government ignored suggestion made by another finance secretary K. Sunitha to first implement a pilot project with limited fund before releasing Rs 370 crore.

The documents also clearly established that the award of the Rs 370 crore project was camouflaged into a "mythical" Rs 3,000 crore charity by German industrial major SIEMENS and ironically the company gave a statement before magistrate that it did not receive any money and is not at all aware of the MoU. Amidst the backdrop of Telugu Desam daring the Chief Minister, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, to prove misuse of funds and their claims that the skill centres were very much in place catering to the students, the Central agencies Goods and Services Tax (Investigation wing) and Enforcement Directorate prima facie established routing of Rs 241 crore out of Rs 371 crore through fake invoices into shell companies.

"For public consumption, then government brought GO Ms No 4 dt June 30, 2015, in which it clearly stated that out of the total project cost SIEMENS will contribute 90 per cent in the form of grant-in-aid and remaining 10 per cent will be borne by the state," AP criminal investigation department chief N. Sanjay told the media in Hyderabad on Thursday. But in the MoU there is no mention of the mythical grant-in-aid and it only talked about release of funds from the state government. The MoU was signed by SISC, Designtech which emerged as the kingpin of the scam, and APSDC without the knowledge of German SIEMENS. The GST already established the routing of funds by Designtech to several shell companies.

Though the TD poll ally Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan attempted to project Naidu's innocence asking the CID to show one signature of Naidu on the files, the investigating agency could establish that he signed at least 13 different occasions in the files relating to the project. The CID chief displayed to media the images of Naidus signatures in files.

"In fact, it is the Central agency that detected fake invoices and routing through shell companies when Naidu was very much in power. The present government took up the case much later," pointed out Additional Advocate General Ponnavolu Sudhakar Reddy who along with CID chief told the media that enough evidence was gathered by the state and central agencies to establish siphoning of public money by the accused.

To mask the apparent graft, then APSDC managing director L. Premchandra Reddy wrote to the Central Institute of Tool Design to evaluate the project in December 2015. But, Reddy, for reasons best known to him, was too eager to release as much as Rs 337 crore in four phases before the CITD submitted its evaluation report in March 2016. Reference to CITD also appears to be a sham because there was no justification for selecting it for evaluation of at least I-T component for which there are other qualified central agencies. Ironically, the tool design institute evaluated the cost of components like software, preparing students for group discussions and mock interviews etc.,

The electronic evidence gathered by the CID clearly showed that representatives of Designtech met CITD former principal director Shujayat Khan who without any independent exercise merely forwarded the cost estimates furnished to him by the private company employee one Bhavana Gupta and corporation released balance Rs 34 crore also to Designtech. Premchandra Reddy refused to comment on the questionnaire sent to him by this correspondent.
BRS MLC K Kavitha (ANI)

ADILABAD: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued a fresh notice to BRS MLC K. Kavitha in the Delhi liquor scam case asking her to appear on Friday for questioning into her alleged involvement in the scam. She had appeared before the ED on March 16, 20, and 21.

There are strong allegations that Rs 100 core exchanged hands in the scam in which the so-called South Lobby played a key role in influencing the government to favour them in the allocation of liquor shops.

Kavitha confirmed that she had received an ED notice, which she said was a 'Modi notice' and a new episode to the never-ending soap opera.

Speaking to the media in Nizamabad on Thursday, Kavitha said that she will go by the partys legal teams advice. She said the notice was not something big to be discussed. Moreover, it was politically motivated and there was no need to worry about the notice.

Finance minister T. Harish Rao alleged that the Central government was trying to fix Kavitha in the liquor scam. He further alleged that the Centre is trying to weaken opposition parties.

After the accused Hyderabad-based businessman Arun Ramachandra Pillai  considered allegedly to be Kavithas benami  reportedly turned approver, the ED issued a fresh notice to Kavitha, which assumes political importance.

However, Pillai on Thursday refuted media reports that he had become approver, terming them as "false" and "completely unfounded." His counsel said he would take legal action against the media houses concerned.

The ED has filed two chargesheets in the case while a third has been filed by the CBI.

Incidentally, all accused, including Magunta Srinivas Reddy, P. Sharath Chandra Reddy, Buchi Babu and Pillai have turned approver. Hyderabad-based businessman Abhishek Boinapalli remains an accused.

Reportedly the information that Pillai has shared with the ED about Kavithas role in the scam is likely to change the course of the ongoing investigation.

There are reports that Kavitha may send a letter seeking an exemption from appearing personally before the ED for questioning as she was busy with preoccupied schedules as a public representative.

Already, a petition filed by her is pending in the Supreme Court challenging the ED summoning women to its office for questioning.

The fresh notice issued to her comes amid allegations by the Congress that the Centre had compromised with the BRS and was trying to save Kavitha. Many BJP top leaders went on record saying that the people had started doubting the credibility of the party for not arresting Kavitha.

Kavitha said in Nizamabad said that the BRS was not a B team of any political party but an A team of people from Telangana and India.

Kavitha said using the ED against opposition parties has become too common a measure by the BJP, especially in poll-bound states. She said the people will teach a lesson to the BJP.

The MLC also participated in some development works taken up in Nizamabad district.
B. Venkatesh, G. Balaraju and B. Panduranga Reddy. (Image: DC)

Hyderabad: The Telangana Congress seems to have turned third time lucky.

In its efforts to get a ground to conduct the launch of its State Assembly elections campaign, Vijaya Bheri, after its first two requests for permission to use a ground  first time for Parade Grounds in Secunderabad to the Centre headed by the BJP, and the second time for an over 100 acre empty land in Ibrahimpatnam to the BRS-led state government  both of which were rejected, the party found support from the poor farmers of Telangana.

After the Congress was denied permission to hold its public meeting at the Parade Grounds or the Gachibowli stadium for its September 17 meeting, it finally zeroed in on private lands in Tukkuguda, with farmers from the area coming ahead voluntarily for use of their land for the public meeting to be addressed by former AICC president Sonia Gandhi and other senior leaders.

One farmer, who offered his 20-acre land, is B. Venkatesh from the Torruru village of Maheshwaram mandal. "We bought the land in 1991 and used to grow basically rain fed crops like maize, pulses and groundnut on it. I offered my land to the Congress sans any monetary compensation because Sonia Gandhi, who gave us a separate Telangana State, will personally come here and address people. When we heard that the ruling BRS is hell bent on not letting the meeting happen smoothly, we were equally resolved to help."

The Congress has assured to repair and replenish the land and make it ready for cultivation again after the meeting is over, he added.

Citing that their family was peeved watching events unfold, even as the way ruling BRS was denying land and permission for the meeting, B. Panduranga Reddy, a resident of the same village, said, "The denial of land for Congress in the name of some obscure endowment department ruling irked us.

So we came forward to give our land. The Congress government headed by late Dr Y.S. Rajashekar Reddy in the past gave us all inputs, like drip irrigation and other inputs like seeds. The cost of agriculture has skyrocketed now. We consider it our privilege to be able to host Sonia amma on our land."

We will continue our agriculture on our 14-acre land between four of my brothers after the meeting. This is our ancestral property, he said, adding it is not fair and unjustified to deny a meeting venue for Sonia Gandhi, who ensured a separate statehood for Telangana.

After the orders of our PCC president, we approached farmers and told them of our problems. They came forward to offer us the use of their lands. We measured the land of the farmers with the help of a surveyor. We will ensure the land is returned intact to the farmers after the meeting, said C. Narasimha Reddy, a Congress worker from Balapuram village of Maheshwaram mandal.

G. Janakiram, Congress state secretary from Tukkuguda, said, "After the government denied land quoting a ruling about endowment land, our fellow villagers came forward to offer their land. My own land is not around this place here, so it is not being used for the meeting."

My land is being used for parking purposes. We are giving land without seeking any compensation. I am giving two acres of my land on which I grew jowar and maize, said G. Balaraju of Tukkuguda village.

The land being just three kilometres away from the international airport is beside the Fab city. It is approachable for those coming from Maheshwaram and other areas like Acchampet, Jadcherla, Kalwakurthy, Nagarkurnool etc.

For those coming from the Suryapet side, they can take the ORR (outer ring road), he said.

"The place has been selected as it is strategically located. The meeting area is around 100 acres. We have earmarked around 125 acres around here for parking vehicles. We are grateful to the farmers for defying the BRS and BJP and offering us their land. They gave us NOC letters, which have been submitted to the Commissioner of Police. All arrangements are happening on a war-footing to shape up the Rajiv Sthal for the meeting," said Sankepally

Sudheer Reddy, partys official spokesperson. PCC president A. Revanth Reddy is personally monitoring all arrangements round-the-clock, he added.

"We had applied for permission for Parade Grounds. They offered us the L.B. Nagar stadium but holding a meeting there would have created traffic problems for people. The BRS government is trying to create all sorts of problems. The government has issued a circular to three district collectors to not allow hoardings along the road," says MLA Malreddy Ram Reddy, party in-charge of LB Nagar constituency.

"This is a pattern. They created many disturbances even during our Khammam meeting, which became a roaring success. The people came from around 150 km to make it a success. Police are stopping people four to five kms ahead of meeting venues, because not all can walk such a distance and attend," he said.

V. Gopal ReddyV. Gopal Reddy, another farmer who owns land adjacent to the meeting venue, said, "When so many senior leaders are coming, it is natural we would welcome them."
When the Congress party asked the BRS government for clearance to hold a meeting at Gachibowli, the permission was denied citing silly reasons. The government also denied permission for a meeting at Tukkuguda. But some farmers came forward and allotted 200 acres of land for the meeting, at which Sonia Gandhi and all important leaders of AICC would speak. DC Image

WARANGAL: TPCC chief A Revanth Reddy said on Wednesday that Chief Minister K.Chandrashekar Rao is conspiring with the BJP to prevent the Congress partys meetings in the state.

"Recognising the sacrifices of the Telangana martyrs and to review the problems of the new state, Sonia Gandhi who helped in its formation and the

entire Gandhi family would visit Telangana state soon," he said while speaking at a meeting of party workers in Hanamkonda.

Revanth Reddy said the people of Warangal played a key role in the separate Telangana movement. "On several occasions, KCR said it is because of Sonia Gandhi that the dream of separate Telangana state was fulfilled. But, when she is about to visit Telangana, KCR is joining hands with PM Modi and trying to create hurdles for the Congress party that has scheduled Sonia Gandhis meeting in the state."

He said, "BJP state chief Kishan Reddy had announced that they would hold the Telangana Liberation Day celebrations on Sept 17 in Warangal. But, when

the Congress party decided to hold a meeting at the Parade grounds in Hyderabad, Kishan Reddy immediately shifted the venue of the BJP meet to Hyderabad."

"When the Congress party asked the BRS government for clearance to hold a meeting at Gachibowli, the permission was denied citing silly reasons. The

government also denied permission for a meeting at Tukkuguda. But some farmers came forward and allotted 200 acres of land for the meeting, at which Sonia Gandhi and all important leaders of AICC would speak."

Referring to IT minister KT Rama Raos recent comments against the Congress party, Revanth Reddy said, "When Sonia Gandhi announced a separate Telangana state, KTR was cleaning the bathrooms in America. It was KCR, his father, who met KV Ramachandra Rao secretly. On his directions, KCR appointed some officials in high positions in the Telangana state."

He said, "It is KCR and his family members who mortgaged Telanganas self-respect at the feet of the Andhra people. Even the construction works of the Telangana martyrs statue were also given to Andhra contractors.

Before the completion of the hundred days of its inauguration, the statue started collapsing."

"Ask the then governor Narasimhan what was the role that I played in the separate Telangana movement. How will KTR know this as he was in America at that time," he said.

Telangana is now a resource to father KCR and son KTR to amass wealth. Both the father and son are looting the Telangana people. They even removed the name of Telangana from the partys name," the TPCC chief said.

Meanwhile, former minister Konda Surekha has asked the TPCC chief to settle the issue of allotment of party tickets. She noted that a lot of leaders were announcing themselves as party candidates and creating confusion among the party cadre.

Earlier, Revanth Reddy extended his support to the students and members of KU-JAC who staged a dharna at the university premises demanding that the

state government probe the irregularities that took place in the Ph.D admissions.

"By appointing an outsider as registrar of the university and torturing the students by using third degree methods, the university vice-chancellor is acting as an agent of the BRS government and his boss Palla Rajeswar. The government must remove the VC and registrar from their posts, he said.
G Kishan Reddy ends his fast by having glass of lemon juice offered by Prakash Javadekar (DC)

HYDERABAD: Telangana BJP president and Union Minister G Kishan Reddy on Thursday morning ended his 24-hour fast in support of demands of the unemployed in the state for filling up vacancies in the government and unemployment allowance.

Kishan Reddy who began his fast at the Dharna Chowk at Indira Park on Wednesday morning, was taken into custody by the police from the protest venue and was taken to the BJP office where he continued his protest.

Soon after he had a glass of lemon juice offered by Prakash Javadekar, the elections in-charge for Telangana for the party, Kishan Reddy said the BJP will not let up its struggle in support of the unemployed and those cheated by the government which supervised botched recruitment exams  as many as 17 of them with question papers leaked in all of them.

Javadekar said the BRS government was scared of the support Kishan Reddys protest was receiving and with around 10,000 youth set to join him at Indira Park for the night, forcibly evicted him from there. "This is just the beginning and KCR is already shaky. The real picture will be revealed in the days to come and the BJP will come to power in Telangana," he said.

Huzurabad MLA Etala Rajendar demanded that the government must at least now, sincerely fill up all the vacancies in the state. "The way in which Kishan Reddy was forcibly removed from Dharna Chowk shows how intolerant to protests the KCR government has become," he said.
Drawing comparisons between Chandrababu Naidu and Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, Pawan said that Naidu was a politician while Jagan was a financial fraudster. DC Image

Vijayawada: In a major political development in Andhra Pradesh, Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan has affirmed his partys alliance with the Telugu Desam in the upcoming polls in the state and hoped that the BJP too would join the alliance against the YSRC.

Addressing the media after meeting TD chief Chandrababu Naidu at the Central Prison in Rajahmundry on Thursday, Pawan Kalyan expressed concern over the way the former CM was implicated in the Skill Development Corporation scam, arrested and sent to judicial remand.

As he spoke, Pawan Kalyan was flanked by TD MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna and TD national general-secretary Nara Lokesh on either side.

He said, "I had hoped to forge an alliance with the TD. After seeing Chandrababu in the Central Prison, I made up my mind to have an alliance between the JS and TD to ensure a bright future for AP. This is not for the benefit of a few individuals. I have informed Chandrababu that I would be taking a key decision in AP politics. Accordingly, I am announcing our partys alliance with TD and wish the BJP will also come along with us to dislodge the YSRC government from power. The people are fed up with it, there is no job creation, there is lawlessness and looting of APs natural resources."

"Now, our task is to form a Joint Action Committee and call our respective party leaders to take their opinion on the JS-TD alliance. The prevailing situation warranted my partys alliance with TD. It is for this reason that I am joined by Balakrishna and Lokesh here.

"I am going to inform the Governor, Prime Minister and Union home minister on the prevailing situation in AP and would seek their intervention," the JS chief said.

"We are prepared to face elections if held now or after six months. The Jagan Mohan Reddy government has only six more months time. Once we are elected to power, we will take to task all those involved in illegal activities, be it mining of sand, minerals or running of belt shops."

"I also ask the YSRC leaders to think of what happened to former CM Naidu as it would also happen to them tomorrow. I give six months time to the YSRC supporters involved in illegal activities to correct themselves. Otherwise, we will take them to task."

"When I met Chandrababu in the jail, I felt very bad. He is in judicial remand. I enquired about his health and also asked the officials about the healthcare being provided to him. I have policy differences with Naidu on some issues, but I never undermined his political stature."

Attributing credit to Naidu for developing the cyber city in Hyderabad where a large numbers of youths are getting jobs while income was being generated in crores, he wondered how Naidu could be implicated in the AP skill development scam and why the state government was showing an interest to inquire into it when the Enforcement Directorate should do the probe.

He also asked why the officials involved in the scam were not being probed and taken to task. He cautioned the chief secretary, DGP and other officials that they would also be implicated in cases in future.

Referring to the three-party alliance of JS-TD-BJP which came to power in the 2014 elections, he wished that the same would be repeated in the 2024 elections in AP.
Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, together with its subsidiaries, provides enabling technologies for industrial growth markets in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and internationally. The company's Instrumentation segment offers monitoring and control instruments for marine, environmental, industrial, and other applications, as well as electronic test and measurement equipment; and power and communications connectivity devices for distributed instrumentation systems and sensor networks. Its Digital Imaging segment provides visible spectrum sensors and digital cameras for industrial machine vision and automated quality control, as well as for medical, research, and scientific applications; and infrared and X-ray spectra for use in industrial, government, and medical applications, as well as micro electromechanical systems and semiconductors, including analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters. This segment also offers thermal imaging systems, visible-light imaging systems, locater systems, measurement and diagnostic systems, and threat-detection solutions. The company's Aerospace and Defense Electronics segment provides electronic components and subsystems, as well as communications products, such as defense electronics, environment interconnects, data acquisition and communications equipment for aircraft, components and subsystems for wireless and satellite communications, and general aviation batteries. Its Engineered Systems segment offers systems engineering and integration, technology development, and manufacturing solutions for defense, space, environmental, and energy applications; and designs and manufactures electrochemical energy systems and electronics for military applications. The company markets and sells its products and services through a direct internal sales force, as well as third-party sales representatives and distributors. The company was founded in 1960 and is headquartered in Thousand Oaks, California.
A man, described by a police officer as a 'trusted member of the New IRA', has been remanded in custody at Derry Magistrate's Court on weapons and explosive charges linked to finds in the city last week.

John Martin Kelly (43) of Columbcille Court, Derry appeared to face a total of six charges.

He was charged with possessing explosives including two Soviet grenade heads and plastic explosives with intent to endanger life on September 7.

He was also charged with possessing explosives in suspicious circumstances on the same date.

Kelly was further charged with two counts of possessing weapons, namely a Browning firearm and a Tokarev weapon with intent to endanger life on the same date as well as having the weapons in suspicious circumstances.

Kelly did not acknowledge the court in any way nor did he indicate he understood the charges.

A Detective Inspector connected the accused to the charges and opposed bail.

The court heard that on September 7 police carried out a search in Southway in Derry in a home belonging to Kelly's brother and found a Tokarev weapon in the roof space.

Following this the officer said that John Kelly engaged in a series of calls and text messages trying to locate his other brother, Gerry.

These messages and calls were described as being marked by 'desperation'.

The officer said that later that day Gerry Kelly told the accused 'I've got that bringing it up now. '

Later that day the officer said a bag was brought to the home of Shannon Kelly the accused's niece.

Police aerial footage showed two men moving a bin behind the house.

Both Gerry Kelly and the accused were said to have left the house before police arrived and recovered the weapon and explosives.

The court heard that shortly before the find Shannon Kelly was said to have texted the defendant to say the police were in the backyard and was said to have responded 'you don't know nothing, same as me.'

The officer said that following the finds forensic tests were carried out and traces of DNA possibly linking Kelly to the weapons was found.

The court heard that Kelly was arrested at his home on Saturday and during 5 hours of interview he made no comment.

Bail was opposed due to the risk of re-offending and fear of flight.

The officer said that police believed Kelly was in control of the weapons and used his family to store them on behalf of the New IRA.

Defence counsel Sean Doherty asked had anything been found in Kelly's own home and was told no.

He said that the defendant denied all knowledge of the matters before the court.

He said that the prosecution case seemed to rely on two strands.

The first being the mobile phone traffic which he said was not surprising given the circumstances and secondly the DNA which had questions over the integrity of that.

District Judge Barney McElholm said that there was a prima facie case to answer.

He refused bail and Kelly was remanded in custody to appear again on October 5.
The Walled city of Derry is being promoted to 50 leading tour operators and travel agents from Belgium and the Netherlands this week  at Tourism Irelands B2B workshops in Brussels and Amersfoort (near Amsterdam).

Twenty two tourism operators from across the island of Ireland  including Visit Derry and the City Hotel, Derry  will connect with the Belgian and Dutch travel professionals, via a series of one-to-one meetings, providing a valuable opportunity for the businesses to showcase and sell their products.

The operators will be signing contracts for 2024 and beyond, so this is a key time to influence the addition of new tourism products to their programmes.

Karen van der Horst, Tourism Irelands Manager for Northern Europe, said: "Were delighted that 50 key Belgian and Dutch travel agents and tour operators are taking the time to come and meet with our partners from Northern Ireland in Brussels and Amersfoort this week.

"Their participation is a strong indication that interest in visiting the island of Ireland remains high in both Belgium and the Netherlands.

"Our B2B workshops provide a really valuable opportunity for our partners from Northern Ireland to showcase their product. The aim is to highlight the many things to see and do here to the influential Belgian and Dutch travel professionals  encouraging them to introduce the island of Ireland into their programmes for 2024 and beyond, or to extend the programmes in which it already features."
Derry City and Strabane District Council is hosting a conference later this month to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the citys UK City of Culture accolade.

The conference, will be chaired by playwright and screenwriter, Sir Phil Redmond, who was the instigator of the UK City of Culture competition and is the chairperson the UK City of Culture Independent Advisory Panel since its inception.

He will lead a reflection on the citys experience as the first UK City of Culture 10 years on, within the context of the experience of other subsequent cities of culture.

Entitled: 'Cracking the Cultural Code', the conference will take place at the Guildhall on Friday, September 22 from 9.30am to 2.00pm. It will feature speakers and contributors from a wide range of cultural backgrounds including representatives from Liverpool who were involved in their bid for European Capital of Culture and the subsequent hosting of the Eurovision, and other bidding cities of Culture past and present including Wrexham, Armagh, and Bradford, with insights on evaluation from Warwick University.

The panel will include contributions from local organisations who are leading on the local Arts and Culture Strategy Co-Delivery, the Council and Visit Derry, as well as funders  the Department for Culture Media and Sport and the Department for Communities and Arts Council NI.

The conference will look at the City of Culture journey, from the application process to securing the title and the implementation of the programme, as well as the impact such an accolade has on local communities and the wider arts and cultural sector.

A key element of the conference will be the important role played by culture in our everyday lives, to looking at ways in which to unlock each cities potential.

The conference will be followed by Culture Night in the city with all delegates being invited to stay in the city and enjoy a cultural explosion and feast of events at venues across the City and District with everything from workshops to museum exhibits, live music and dance, to book readings, circus and carnival.

Speaking ahead of the conference, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Patricia Logue said it was important to mark the tenth anniversary of City of Culture and look back to the years of 2011 and 2012 when the process first started to really appreciate how much we have achieved and accomplished to date.

She said: I am delighted to attend the conference and to hear at first hand the experiences of other cities who have learnings from being involved in the City of Culture process and to share with the audiences our own positive experiences of the title and how it has transformed our city and region and provided us with a new sense of pride and confidence to tell a new narrative.

Sir Phil Redmond said he is very much looking forward to returning to the city to chair the conference and to share his personal experiences of the City of Culture.

The UK City of Culture is a catalyst for creativity and allows cities to really embrace their creative thinking and come up with new ideas. It provides cities with an opportunity to demonstrate the breadth of their ambition, aspiration, and innovation and to be part of a longterm journey to bring about a catalyst for positive change.

"I am delighted to be returning to Derry~Londonderry to share my experiences and to reignite the passion and creativity to encourage other cities to get involved. Derry-Londonderry was the first ever UK city of Culture and lead the way for others by putting creativity and culture at the heart of regeneration. It is a timely opportunity a decade later to bring cities together to learn, reflect, celebrate, and look forward.

Full details of the speakers and contributors are still being finalised. For those interested in attending they are reminded that spaces are limited, and they must register in advance to secure a place.

To register visit  https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/uk-city-of-culture-10-years- on-conference-cracking-the-cultural-code-tickets-673606403887?aff=oddtdtcreator
Youth workers in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area are being urged to get involved in the preparations for a special engagement event with local young people next month.

The Your Say Child Rights event will take place in the Guildhall on Friday, October 6 from 10.00am to 2.30pm as part of the Council areas journey towards achieving UNICEF UK Child Friendly City and Community status.

The event is an opportunity for young people to learn more about their rights and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and to speak to key decision makers in the City and District about what is important to them.

In preparation for the event, local youth organisations and services are being urged to host Your Say workshops in their own community where young people can begin to discuss the themes of the main event.

The Your Say Child Rights workshops will take place in local communities so that young people can become more aware of their rights and prepare for the main event in their existing safe space, explained Children and Young Peoples Coordinator Claire Lynch.

We are looking for youth workers from across the city and district to deliver the one hour workshops to young people aged 10-18 to maximise the reach of the event on October 6th and strengthen the partnership approach with our local community and voluntary sector organisations.

We have an existing network of organisations already committed to deliver this work and support our UNICEF UK Child Friendly Cities and Communities initiative.

This open call aims to increase that reach and strengthen the partnership approach with local community and voluntary sector organisations.

Michaela O'Hagan, Youth Services Manager, Bogside and Brandywell Health Forum, who have taken a leading role in the partnership to organise the activities urged other organisations to get involved.

We are delighted to be involved in the upcoming 'Your Say, Child's Rights' event on October 6, she said.

This is an opportunity for the young people within our communities to have their voices heard and to help influence and shape change within their own communities.

As Derry City and Strabane moves towards becoming a more child-friendly city within UNICEF and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) framework, this event will highlight the brilliant partnership-work, showing how agencies can come together to support the needs of children and young people.

Article 12 of the UNCRC, says that every child has the right to express their views, feelings, and wishes in all matters affecting them, and to have their views considered and taken seriously.

"It says that the opinions of children and young people should be considered when people make decisions about things that involve them; Their opinions shouldnt be dismissed out of hand on the grounds of age. We are delighted that the 'Your Say, Child's Rights' event embodies the spirit of the UNCRC and will provide a platform for young people.

I look forward to hearing from all the young people on the day, sharing their opinions on the UNCRC, their views on which articles are important to them, and what impact these articles have on their lives now, and will have in the future.

Youth workers who sign up will receive a child rights workshop briefing session and a session plan to support them in delivering the workshop.

As a local youth worker taking part in the initiative, you will have to identify between 2 and 5 young people to attend the event on October 6, 1 to 2 of these should want to share their Child Rights Statement on the day.

Any youth workers who want to get involved in delivering the workshops within their organisation must submit an Expression of Interest form by Thursday, September 21.

The forms can be downloaded on the Council website at: www.derrystrabane.com/childrightsworkshop where full details of the Your Say initiative are available.
With the second tranche of redundancies due at the Derry plant, councillors have agreed to a follow-up meeting with Unite the Union representatives and Seagate workers.

The meeting follows a motion which received unanimous support at last weeks Derry City and Strabane District Council Governance and Strategic Planning meeting.

Proposed by Cllr Shaun Harkin (People Before Profit) and seconded by Cllr Gary Donnelly (Independent), the motion stated: Council will organise a meeting with unite representatives and Seagate workers to discuss job security concerns, considering the large number of voluntary redundancies, continued anti-union campaigning from senior management, and the Industrial Court ruling in favour of the union.

Speaking to Derry Now, Unite regional organiser, Lynn McKinty, said the meeting would be a follow-up to one which took place at the end of January.

At the start of the year, councillors from various political parties, along with then Mayor Sandra Duffy [Sinn Fein] met senior management from Seagate to discuss worker representation and trade union recognition at Seagate, said Ms McKinty.

She added: This latest motion is to be welcomed as it reiterates the continued support the Derry City and Strabane District Council has shown for trade union recognition at Seagate.

Council has been involved all along the route of us getting trade union recognition at Seagate, a campaign which has been ongoing for quite a while.

We put in for statutory trade union recognition in February, so we are now coming to the end of the process. The fact councillors are giving us a bit more support visually is really good because it has been a long and frustrating process for the membership at Seagate.

Basically, we are in the statutory process now, where our backroom unit has been defined by the Industrial Court as manufacturing specialists, so the next stage is either going to be automatic recognition or a ballot. That should be coming up in the next month.

Ms McKinty said the Unite members in Seagate were looking forward to the conclusion of the union recognition process.

They want to start to have negotiating and bargaining rights with Seagate, she said.

I cant stress enough how amazing the membership has been in terms of their strength and resilience and their commitment to having their collective bargaining rights upheld.

I definitely welcome Councils continued support of the workers at Seagate to form their trade union. We will definitely be taking them up on their offer of a meeting.

Ms McKinty said she had been involved in the Seagate workers campaign for union recognition since October 2022.

She explained: I have taken them right through the whole process from start to finish. We started with 40 people who would have been long-term members at Seagate, out of a workforce of 1,600.

We have got that up to 500 members, which is a massive achievement in a comparably short amount of time. It was on the back of that membership growth we were then able to go for recognition and to really establish the union there.

Achieving recognition is a formal process. Obviously we would have preferred voluntary recognition. We would have loved to have sat down with Seagate but Seagate did not accept us. On that basis, the only route left for us to gain recognition was through the statutory process.

That is why it has ended up meandering its way through the Industrial Court.

However, we are at the end stages of this process now. The Seagate workers have done brilliantly. They are an amazing group of people. For me, it has been an absolute privilege to get to know Derry and Derry people.

According to Lynn McKinty, the redundancy process at Seagate is nearing conclusion.

A tranche of workers left at the beginning of September, she said and another tranche is leaving in mid-September. Altogether, 306 people have been made redundant from Derry. Worldwide the redundancy figure was 3,400.

A spokesperson for Seagate told Derry News said: We have no further comment to add at this stage as we conclude the recent global restructuring programme and continue to participate in the Industrial Court process.
The Northern Ireland Policing Board has exacerbated the current crisis in the leadership of the PSNI, a former chief constable has claimed.

The PSNI has been rocked by a string of controversies in recent months, including a significant data breach and a critical High Court ruling around the disciplining of two junior officers, which led to Chief Constable Simon Byrne announcing his resignation.

The Policing Board, the oversight body for the PSNI, announced that Deputy Chief Constable Mark Hamilton is assuming the responsibilities of the top position.

On Thursday he remained off work following an unplanned medical procedure, and the PSNI service executive team is leading the organisation.

A new chief constable will be in post by November, the Policing Board said earlier this month.

Mr Hamilton was named as being involved in decision-making in the High Court ruling.

Mr Justice Scoffield found that two junior officers were unlawfully disciplined following an arrest at a Troubles commemoration in February 2021.

The event was marking the anniversary of the 1992 Sean Graham bookmakers attack in south Belfast by loyalist paramilitaries, in which five people were killed and nine others injured.

The judge said the officers were disciplined to allay any threat of Sinn Fein abandoning its support for policing in Northern Ireland.

On Wednesday, Sinn Fein vice president Michelle ONeill said she never threatened to withdraw her partys support for policing.

Former PSNI chief constable Sir George Hamilton has claimed the interim arrangements do not provide the leadership the PSNI needs at this time.

I have a concern that the current arrangements that the Policing Board have come up with is not going to provide that leadership, and thats nothing to do with the individuals, its more a structural and a policy decision they have taken, he told BBC Northern Irelands The View programme.

They made a call that Mark Hamilton would not be appointed as the interim or acting chief constable but rather would be fulfilling the responsibilities of the chief constable when required as deputy chief constable.

That to me is a failure of leadership on the part of the Policing Board, it puts Mark in an almost impossible position.

There is a question mark of course around Mark and his involvement in the Ormeau Road decision-making, and the comments from Mr Justice Scoffield in all of that.

That is the subject of review and potentially investigation. Im not saying hes the right person, what Im saying is this fudge that the Policing Board have come up with is actually exacerbating the leadership deficit at the top of the PSNI.

Sir George said there are thousands of PSNI officers and staff who want to be led.

They need to know who the figurehead is and that is important to put somebody in place, even in an interim period, who has the ability and confidence of the organisation to take it forward through this crisis, he said.

Sir George also said that Mr Byrne should not have been allowing himself to be influenced operationally.

I dont think politicians advocating for a certain position is this issue here, its how the senior executive police leadership team respond to that, he said.

The chief constable should not have been allowing himself to be influenced operationally.

There is a difference between taking peoples perspective and building that into the decision-making and actually jumping straight to placate someone because you have either been threatened or you perceive that you have been threatened, that theyre going to walk away from policing.

A PSNI spokesman confirmed that Deputy Chief Constable Mark Hamilton remains absent at this time and the day-to-day leadership of the service continues to be delivered by the service executive team.
A budget set for Northern Irelands public services will require difficult decisions, a minister has said.

Lord Caine acknowledged this is not easy as the UK Parliament approved the annual financial package for the region due to the continued political stalemate in Stormont.

The Tory frontbencher also stressed the total sum being made available of 14.2 billion for revenue spending and 2.2 billion for capital would have been the same if the executive was up and running.

There have been no functioning devolved institutions since last year when the DUP withdrew in protest over the post-Brexit trading arrangements for Northern Ireland.

The UK Government and EU unveiled the Windsor Framework earlier this year as a means of resolving difficulties caused by the Northern Ireland Protocol, but the DUP has said its concerns must be met before it returns to government.

Speaking as the Northern Ireland Budget (No.2) Bill went through the House of Lords, Northern Ireland Office minister Lord Caine said: Of course, it is the Governments clear wish that these matters were being dealt with by a fully functioning Northern Ireland Executive and Assembly and we are working tirelessly to bring that about.

However, in the absence of an executive, it is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland departments now to make the specific spending decisions to ensure that they live within the budget limits as set out in this Bill.

I recognise that this is not easy and will require difficult decisions.

He reminded the House that the Government had inherited a significant prospective overspend in 2022-23 of 660 million.

Lord Caine told peers: I emphasise that the sum available for this budget would have been the same provided to an executive for 2023-24 if an executive were in place.

The Bill, which has already been approved by the Commons, cleared the Lords and now goes for royal assent.
Publications

Find publications from government departments and agencies, including news, press releases, reports, and Freedom of Information responses. This page is still in development and is not a complete list of all publications. Further information on publications can be found on the individual department websites.
HIGHLIGHTS Tecno rolls out this new lineup of laptops in three different variants.

The Megabook T1 laptop series comes with an Intel 11th Gen processors.

The Megabook T1 Core i3 is priced on Amazon at 37,999 for Core i3.

Tecno is known for the budget friendly devices in the country. The Chinese brand has now entered in the laptop industry. It has rolled out the Megabook T1 laptop series, expanding its laptop portfolio. The Megabook T1 also comes with a budget-friendly price, starting at just 37,999. Along with that, it is said to be Tecnos lightest and thinnest laptop lineup. The company rolls out this new lineup with three different processors; Core i3 variant, Core i5 variant and Core i7 variant. Lets go through its complete specifications.

Megabook T1 Laptops specifications

The Megabook T1 laptop series comes with an Intel 11th Gen processors. There are three different processor models in the Megabook T1 Laptop series; the Core i3 variant, Core i5 variant and Core i7 variant. The laptop lineup is paired with up 16GB RAM and up to 1TB storage.

Speaking of the display, it features a 15.6-inch Full HD+ display that has 350 nits of peak brightness and 100 percent sRGB colour gamut. It runs on Windows 11 Home out of the box.

Also read: Tecno Camon 20 gets artsy: The Avocado Art Edition now available in India

It is packed with a 70Wh battery that comes with an adapter of up to 65-watt PD fast charging support. You can use it for 17.5 hours straight on a single charge, claimed Tecno. Apart from that, the laptop also features VC cooling system.

Talking about connectivity, it has total 9 ports, including a dedicated SD Card slot, two USB 3.1 Type-A ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, a docking port, two USB Type-C ports, an ethernet port, and a HDMI 1.4 port.

Some more additional features come with the Megabook T1 laptops are; TUV Rheinland Eye Comfort Certification, backlit keyboard, and a fingerprint sensor integrated in power button.

Also read: Tecno Phantom V Flip design, processor and other details surfaced online: Take a look

Megabook T1 Laptops price and availability

Now talking about the price and availability, it is currently available on Amazon on an Early Bird Sale. The Megabook T1 Core i3 is priced on Amazon at 37,999 for Core i3, 47,999 for Core i5, and 57,999 for Core i7. The company sells them in three colour options that are Denim Blue, Space Grey, and Moonshine Silver.
If you are scouring the market for a smartphone thats high on style quotient, the Honor 90 is one of the best-designed phones under 40,000. The phone is priced at 37,999 for the base variant which is quite overpriced for the performance on offer. However, some introductory bank offers can bring the price down to 29,999. At 29,999, this is a pretty great offering if performance is not the most important to you. The phone knocks it out of the park with its slim profile, classy rear panel design, and excellent in-hand feel. Its not just all looks; the Honor 90 also has a world-class display with 10-bit colour and great HDR performance, it has a pretty impressive 200 MP primary camera, and 66 W fast charging. Of course, it is not the best-performing phone and probably not the best option for gamers since weve got speed monsters like the iQOO Neo 7 Pro and POCO F5 in this price range.

After a hiatus of about three years, Honor is back in India with a spanking new smartphone launch! The smartphone in question is the Honor 90  a mid-range smartphone that serves looks. The brands approach to advertising the Honor 90  the companys comeback device in India  has been three-fold. It surrounds the design, display, and cameras  the three main USPs that are extremely hyped by the company. However, unlike several global markets, the sub 40K price bracket is ludicrously competitive in India. Youve got absolute monster performers such as the iQOO Neo 7 Pro (review), POCO F5 (review), and OnePlus Nord 3 (review) inhabiting this price segment, so lets see if the new Honor 90 can actually give these a run for their money. If youre wondering if you should buy the new Honor 90, read my detailed review to find out if it is right for you.

Honor 90 Review: Build and Design

The Honor 90 is absolutely stunning. All three colours have different textures and designs; and they each have their own charm, in my opinion. I got the Emerald Green variant which has an eye-catching and classy frosted matte curved rear panel. It curves beautifully against the contours of my hand and the overall feel of using the phone is fantastic because of how thin and lightweight it is. The weight distribution is also excellent.

You also get a Diamond Silver variant which has an ornate design at the bottom inspired by jewellery and then theres the classic Midnight Black variant. The Midnight Black and Diamond Silver variants are glossy and attract some fingerprints, however, it is a lot less visible on the Silver variant because of the colour and design.

The two circular camera modules have a lot of design flair as well. Theyre inspired by eclipses and look different from the drones of similarly designed camera modules in the market. Two cameras are placed inside the top module, while the flash and another camera inhabit the bottom camera module.

The front of the phone looks like a work of art as well because Honor has curved the display from all four sides. The top and bottom have a slightly less pronounced curve, but it still makes the phone look more premium than most competitors in this price bracket. Honor calls this the Quad-curved floating display.

The sides of the phone are made out of plastic and the buttons on the right side are well-built and tactile. Where the Honor 90 loses out on points in the build and design category is the lack of any official rating for the glass protecting the display. However, the company has claimed that this glass is extremely tough. I myself have tested it out by cracking a walnut shell (encouraged by Honors Walnut challenge) with it and dropping it from waist height  no damage was done. Sadly though, theres no IP rating, which is disappointing because it would take the phones survivability to the next level.

The phone also misses out on stereo speakers, which I think, is almost inexcusable at its 37,999 price point. Immersiveness during content consumption takes a serious hit because of this since the sole speaker is simply not capable of outputting impactful sound. Speaker and display protection aside, I think this is my favourite design on a phone in and around this price. The company has not defaulted to having a leather back for the premium appeal, instead, theyve taken time to craft an absolutely stunning glass slab that is easy on the eyes and the hands.

Honor 90 Review: Display

Honor has made some tall claims about the Honor 90s display. They claim it is the best display in this price range from a users perspective owing to the fact that it comes with 3,840 Hz PWM Dimming, which they claim is the highest in the industry. It is certified by TUV Rheinland with the Flicker-Free certification for its PWM dimming level  meaning it should flicker much less and avoid unnecessary strain on the eyes, especially in low light.

Theres not a lot of medical discourse yet about the harms of low PWM levels and how they affect our eyes in the long-term, but this feature anticipates unnecessary eye strain low PWM dimming phones could cause and attempts to avoid that. I applaud Honor for caring about this when many flagships in the market dont, but we wont know the full extent of the benefits until the harmful effects have been studied further.

Now PWM dimming aside, this is a feature-packed display. It is a 6.7-inch curved AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution and 435 PPI. The content watched on this screen looks extremely crisp and quite vibrant. Viewing angles are fantastic and sunlight visibility is excellent as well. I tested 1,524 nits of peak brightness under sunlight, which is superb. The display is also HDR10+ certified and supports 10-bit colour. You can also watch HDR content on Netflix and YouTube, and it looks stunning.

Theres also fast 120 Hz refresh rate support along with the option to choose Adaptive refresh rate where the phone changes it according to the task and its demand. However, you must note that the 3,840 Hz PWM dimming is only active when the display is on 120 Hz, so you wont get the full benefit of this feature if you stick to 60 Hz or if the phone lowers the refresh rate from time to time automatically. Keeping the display at 120 Hz all the time will negatively impact the battery life. So, theres a choice to be made there. What I would do is change the refresh rate to 120 Hz at nighttime, since the flicker of the display usually strains your eyes in low light.

Honor 90 Review: Performance

Now heres where the Honor 90 falters a bit. The sub 40,000 smartphone market in India has a considerable number of speed monsters equipped with powerful flagship-grade SoCs. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 Accelerated Edition on the Honor 90 is in no way a slow processor, but it is slightly underpowered compared to the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 on the iQOO Neo 7 Pro, the Dimensity 9000 on the OnePlus Nord 3, and the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 on the POCO F5.

With the Honor 90, you get two storage options  8 GB + 256 GB and 12 GB + 512 GB. So, thats plenty of storage and RAM for most peoples needs. You also get fast LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage that performed exceedingly well in our storage benchmarks. So, app opening times are expectedly blazing fast.

Moving on to CPU benchmarks, the Honor 90 scores lower than most of its competitors. The OnePlus Nord 3, POCO F5, and iQOO Neo 7 Pro blaze past the Honor 90, but the Moto Edge 40 lags behind. Sadly, the lead the Honor 90 had on the Moto Edge 40 (review) didnt carry over to GeekBench with the phone coming in last amongst its competitors around the 30-40K price mark. The Honor 90 is around the middle of the pack in PCMark Work with a good score of 12,460.

In GPU benchmarks, the Honor 90 lags behind yet again in both 3D Mark Wild Life Extreme and the GFXBench tests. So, this is definitely not the best phone for power users and gamers. When I played Call of Duty: Mobile on the Honor 90, I got pretty stable frame rates in the beginning on High Graphics, however, after about 10-15 minutes the phone started heating up and throttling, making some frame skips happen along the way.

To test throttling, I fired up the CPU Throttling Test where the Honor 90 throttled to 60 per cent of its maximum performance in merely 15 minutes  this is pretty poor throttling performance and youre going to feel the performance drop when the phone performs intensive tasks for longer periods.

In normal day-to-day usage though the phone serves you pretty well. It is smooth and fluid for the most part, and multitasking is a breeze with 12 GB of RAM, however, like I said, if youre performing heavy-duty tasks such as recording video, editing photos, or gaming for longer periods, the phone will end up heating and you will feel some lag and stutters.

The phone ships with Android 13 with MagicOS 7.1 on top. The company promises two years of software updates and three years of security patches which is on the lower side. In my opinion, three years should be standard, especially on phones above 30K. MagicOS 7.1 comes with the full suite of Google services, if any of you were worried about that. There are some Honor apps and third-party apps preinstalled, but the amount of bloatware is relatively low compared to some Xiaomi and Realme phones. Most third-party apps can be uninstalled, but Honor apps stay put. MagicOS also feels a bit clunky and overcrowded but there are a plethora of features and customisation options that are fun to play around with.

Honor 90 Review: Camera

The Honor features a 200 MP Samsung ISOCELL HP3 primary camera with f/1.9 aperture but sadly, theres no optical image stabilisation. This is a bummer since many mid-range phones today come packing OIS that helps achieve shake-free shots in daylight and low light. That aside, youve got a 12 MP ultrawide lens with autofocus, and a 2 MP depth shooter. The ultrawide lens also doubles as a pretty capable macro camera that you can get some really usable shots out of. On the front, the Honor 90 rocks a 50 MP selfie shooter. Both the front and rear cameras are capable of 4K at 30 fps video capture, which is fantastic and quite rare at this price, to be honest.

The main camera on the Honor 90 captures 12.5 MP pixel-binned photos by default. The pictures captured in ideal lighting look impressive  the detail is good, the colours are natural, and even the dynamic range is nice and controlled. Some shots can look a tad oversharpened but it's not done in an excessively distasteful manner. If the lighting gets a bit tricky though, the dynamic range takes a hit. Highlights can get blown out at times, which brings down the detail levels in the photo. You can also take 200 MP shots on this phone, and while the image is more detailed, the colours are slightly off in this mode. Theres no telephoto lens but the 2x zoom shots almost look identical in detail to the 1x ones with great detail and colour. Here are some camera samples, please note they've been compressed for the web.

Portrait shots on the Honor 90 look good  the colours are vibrant, and edge detection is excellent. However, the phone smooths skin textures and white-washes Indian subjects a bit. As for the ultrawide camera, I actually found it quite impressive in ideal lighting. The detail  especially in the centre of the photo  and the colour consistency are great. Barrel distortion is also pretty low.

The 50 MP selfie camera boasts great resolution but it lacks autofocus. You get 12.5 MP binned photos from this camera by default and they look pretty good. The skin detail is, once again, lacking but overall colour reproduction, detail retention and dynamic range are decent enough.

Moving on to low-light photography, the Honor 90 produces some decent shots. Honor has gone down the route of maintaining the night look of low light shots, so the shadows are crushed quite a bit in most nighttime pictures and there is some lens flare as well, but the overall picture is serviceable for the price. Ultrawide low-light shots could be better though as theres too much noise and low levels of detail.

Overall though, I dont dislike the camera quality of the Honor 90. Sure, its not perfect, but for casual use and social media posts, it does more than enough at this price. The main camera can click some particularly gorgeous shots in ideal lighting, which is when the majority of the users will click pictures. There are some AI camera features as well that will attract Gen Z and Millennials such as Instant Movie, Emoji Creation, and more.

Honor 90 Review: Battery Life

The Honor 90 features a 5,000 mAh cell on board, which is impressive given its slim form factor. Sadly, the chipset used in the phone doesnt have the best endurance so the battery life of the Honor 90 is nothing to write home about. Its a one-day battery phone for light users but heavy users will have to plug the phone in before the end of the day. In our 4K video loop test, the Honor 90 only lasted a paltry 12 hours and 20 minutes. This is nowhere close to the best battery life in the segment.

I saw the phone drop battery levels pretty rapidly when I played games. 30 minutes of COD: Mobile dropped the battery by 11 per cent, which is quite a lot. I also noticed that the phones battery only dropped by 4 per cent in the first 15 minutes of Call of Duty but as the phone got hotter, the battery levels started dropping faster. So, battery life could definitely be improved.

As for charging, the Honor 90 supports 66 W wired fast charging, but theres no wireless charging support here. Theres also no charger inside the Indian retail box but Honor will offer their customers chargers free of cost on the purchase of an Honor 90. The charging speeds are quite good; you can expect the phone to charge from empty to full in just under an hour.

Honor 90 Review: Verdict

If you are scouring the market for a smartphone thats high on style quotient, the Honor 90 is one of the best-designed phones under 40,000. The phone is priced at 37,999 for the base variant which is quite overpriced for the performance on offer. However, some introductory bank offers can bring the price down to 29,999. At 29,999, this is a great offering if performance is not the most important to you. The phone knocks it out of the park with its slim profile, classy rear panel design, and excellent in-hand feel. Its not just all looks; the Honor 90 also has a world-class display with 10-bit colour and great HDR performance, it has a pretty impressive 200 MP primary camera, and 66 W fast charging. Of course, it is not the best-performing phone and probably not the best option for gamers since weve got speed monsters like the iQOO Neo 7 Pro and POCO F5 in this price range. Nevertheless, for casual users, the performance is still fluid and MagicOS 7.1 is relatively light on bloatware as well. Of course, its not all positive here since the phone has lower than average battery life, and there are some omissions such as no IP rating, OIS for the camera, and wireless charging. Additionally, after the introductory offers period, the phone's 37,999 price tag will be a turn-off for many.
Save my User ID and Password

Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site.

Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site.
Entomal Biotech pitches novel way of processing food waste into a healthy protein source

Entomal Biotech is bringing a new, sustainable way of processing food waste to the table. It has come up with an idea of circling food waste from the kitchen, home, to the dump and then back to animals or, ultimately in the future, human's stomach.

The Kuala Lumpur-based biotech startup is now seeking funding to set up both decentralized containers for small volume food waste from every household and large, centralized food waste treatment plant for restaurants and corporations.

It is working from the top down with local authorities to make impactful policy changes so that food waste treatment can be decarbonized. It has also received requests from private corporations for solutions to large-scale food waste treatment. According to the United Nation (UN)'s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the world produces 1.3 billion tonnes of edible food wastage every year. And the carbon footprint the total food wastage releases into the atmosphere is estimated at 3.3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent of greenhouse gas.

Through Entomal Biotech, treating food waste is now much more innovative. The company focuses on treating food waste for clients including city councils, corporations, plantations, shopping malls, hotels, and communities, cooking their "secret recipe" that turn the food waste into nutritious insect protein extracted from black soldier fly larvae.

The company has helped set up black soldier fly farms internationally as it is equipped with a thorough technical understanding of the expertise. In addition to the farms existing in South Korea, China, Singapore, and Malaysia, Entomal Biotech is now working with new farms coming up in Thailand and Indonesia. The insect-based protein will be processed into animal feed, starting from pet food and eventually to livestock feed, as animal feed is the company's largest downstream market.

Yanni Ching, the "Fly Lady" of Entomal Biotech, who is also the CCO of the company with her two wingmen of the team - the co-founder and the CTO, said the insect-protein is an excellent choice to feed cats, chickens, and pigs as the protein is nutritious and beneficial. "Essentially, the nutrition makes them healthier and happier," she said.

In the future ahead, humans might be allowed to consume the insect-based protein as well, but it is still under extensive research and will need verification before it gets served. Entomal Biotech's vision is to work with UNICEF and distribute protein bars to countries with nutrition needs.

Tera cat food, the company's first product, has launched in Malaysia, where 70% of the population have cats as pets. The pet food market in southeast Asia, Ching said, is very competitive, but their sales are looking good. The company is also working to connect with distributors of Tera in Europe, where cat owners, or pet owners in general, are more willing to pay for a green premium for pet food. Their first stop might be the store shelves in the UK.

In addition to pet food, the company is developing a wound-healing cream for pets too. The anti-microbial peptides extracted from black solider fly protein is effective in healing and preventing infections.

Entomal Biotech has been in contact with black soldier fly farm operators in Taiwan. Although most of them are still in the early stage of development, said Ching, the industry will grow with support from the government. She is confident that the company's expertise would be a huge benefit for Taiwanese players.

Well-equipped to pioneer the niche market of food waste management around the world, the company is looking to work with waste management sector and black soldier fly farms. It has started pre-series A fundraising. The technology to produce larvae feed by treating food waste will be presented by the company at the TIE Awards held in Taipei on October 12-14, 2023.
Tech industry key conversation (part 2): DIGITIMES founder Colley Hwang vs. Avnet CEO Phil Gallagher

In Part 1, Gallagher mentioned that it will take two to three quarters to address the supply chain inventory issues. However, new challenges like geopolitics and supply chain/market regionalization are also just beginning. Who will be the one to emerge in this next generation? During the conversation between Avnet CEO Phil Gallagher and DIGITIMES founder Colley Hwang, they offered a basic direction for thought.

Defining the five major sectors before proceeding to regional markets

Hwang pointed out that in the past 20 years, the majority of the semiconductor sector's income came from mature sectors like PCs and mobile phones. Companies needed brand names, rather than consolidate manufacturers. Now, the situation is different, as we are witnessing the trend of "application driving demand." Nvidia's market value has exceeded US$ 1 trillion, and Taiwan houses about 50 suppliers within Nvidia's supply chain.

He believed that with this scenario, there would only be around 8 countries/regions worldwide that could become major "players." These countries include the US, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, China, India, the EU, and possibly Mexico.

Taiwan's IC design industry currently holds around 18-19% of the global market share, while India's share is nearly negligible at 0%, and South Korea at only 2%. This shows that Taiwan should leverage its leadership position and collaborate with others, especially as we move into the "application-driven" phase. It should not be limited itself to just current markets.

Some companies were considering an expansion to emerging markets like Mexico, but the challenge lies in understanding the local infrastructure situation. Hwang recommended that companies define "five major sectors" before proceeding to regional markets.

The first is computing equipment, which will account for roughly 33% of market share. The second is communication, around 35%. The third is consumer electronics, around 9%. The fourth is transportation, which accounts for 11% now but could grow to 3040% by 2030. The fifth is industrial PC and defense.

Gallagher acknowledged the abovementioned five sectors, stating that these are also categories that Avnet needs to pay close attention to. Personal computing still has massive potential, and so do transportation and defense.

Avnet is continually expanding its footprint, whether it's through strengthening internal capabilities or collaborating with third parties. Avnet is very proud of the progress it has made, with an entrenched presence in over 250 locations globally . This expansion strategy is one of Avnet's responses to the continuously evolving demands. The aim is to ensure resilience against any unforeseen challenges. Agility and flexibility are key advantages for Avnet and will be crucial when facing uncertainty.

Source: Avnet, compiled by DIGITIMES, September 2023.

The risks of geopolitical cooperation/competition

Regarding geopolitics, Gallagher acknowledged that Avnet has to do further analysis. While he personally found it challenging to consider events that have yet to occur, he still hoped that the US could take appropriate actions when required.

As a major distributor, Avnet is actively exploring strategies to reduce risks and has disaster recovery plans in place. However, the impact of geopolitical events is often far beyond what one can prepare for. Furthermore, these impacts are often global, as seen with the Russia-Ukraine war and the US-China trade war.

For Avnet, devising strategies to buffer or store critical components is a requirement. Additionally, there's a shift happening from traditional capital allocation to value driven by new technology. Traditional sectors still have their importance; for instance, maintaining existing equipment is vital as redesigning within 18 months is economically unfeasible

A war in the Taiwan Strait would have a much more significant global impact than many expect, said Hwang. This is because the five major airports that handle international cargo are all located in East Asia (Hong Kong, Shanghai, Incheon, Taoyuan, and Narita). If a war broke out in the Taiwan Strait, the world could be looking at losses of over US$10 trillion.

From Taiwan's standpoint, avoiding war may seem challenging, but we need to establish successful industries to make the world aware of Taiwan's importance. Therefore, we need to cooperate with Thailand, Vietnam, and even Ukraine when it conducts its reconstruction.

Regarding the equipment China imports, how much of it is invested in China by companies like Samsung, SK Hynix, TSMC, VIS, and Intel? If the U.S. restricts equipment exports to China, these shipments might redirect to Europe or other countries like India.

Major relocation in the electronic industry chain

Gallagher stated that when looking at customer trends, they've indeed observed that the electronics industry's supply chain seems to be shifting the additional investments from China to other locations. This change became more apparent when they closely monitored certain customers.

Avnet is currently in an expansion phase, but it has also received requests from customers who are exploring "non-traditional approaches." These customers are also thinking about expanding their businesses and initiating response strategies.

Avnet's president of the Asia-Pacific region Prince Yun brought up the concept of "geomix" and "second mix." He stated that Avnet observes a trend where some customers who used to manufacture their products in China are now moving their business to Vietnam. In addition, Avnet has also received requests from North American customers who are interested in moving their businesses to Mexico. This shift marks a major development for Avnet, especially in North America.

The geographic distribution of Avnet's operations is well-structured, with an Asian portfolio that provides balanced business to Japan, Taiwan, and China. Similarly, its secondary customer portfolio also contributes to this balance. Globally, Avnet's overall strategy and coverage are spread out relatively evenly.

In a challenging market, some companies often focus on specific areas, such as PC/IT products. In contrast, Avnet maintains a diversified investment portfolio and does not overly focus on any specific sector.

Regarding Avnet's market strategy, its geographic portfolio and secondary customer portfolio are balanced, ensuring a fair distribution between "different regions" and "customer groups." In China, around 30% of Avnet's operations are related to EVs, and around 10-15% are in the industrial control sector. Both of these sectors still have significant room for growth in China.

Gallagher added that Avnet has already set up a design process in the US that can trace customers. At the same time, the Avnet Group has a workforce of over 600 people in India.

Avnet's global revenue is approximately US$26 billion, following through with a previous point about "not relying on a single major customer." In fact, no single customer contributes more than 5% of Avnet's revenue, which aligns with its strategy of diversification.

Source: Avnet, compiled by DIGITIMES, September 2023.
Parts of Ireland could see 70mm of rain fall in just a few hours on Thursday amid a number of Met Eireann warning and a 'worrying' new update.

A Status Yellow weather warning will be in place for 12 counties on Thursday evening, while the warning for Cork has been upgraded to Status Orange by Met Eireann.

The Status Yellow rain warning covers Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Offaly, Wexford, Wicklow, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford from 6pm on Thursday until 6pm on Friday.

The orange warning for Cork warns of slightly more severe rainfall and will extend over the same period from 6pm on Thursday for 24 hours.

In an update, Met Eireann said: "From Thursday evening to Friday evening, persistent and sometimes heavy rain may lead to localised flooding, poor visibility and difficult travelling conditions."

A general outlook for the coming days is equally grim but for a short reprieve on Saturday. Met Eireann predicts our weather to be "unsettled with outbreaks of rain or showers on most days, with the exception of a mostly dry day Saturday."

Looking at the immediate forecast, they said: "Tonight [Thursday] will be wet in many areas with persistent and sometimes heavy rain with spot flooding, especially over Munster, Leinster and east Ulster. Western and northern parts of Connacht and Ulster will be mainly dry. Lowest temperatures of 9 to 12 degrees with light northerly breezes.

"Friday will continue wet with further spells of rain and some spot flooding over Munster, Leinster and east Ulster. Drier to the west and north with a few bright intervals. Cool with highest temperatures of 12 to 15 degrees and light to moderate northeast breezes."

The good news is that Saturday will be mostly dry, "with a possibility of light rain lingering in eastern and southeastern parts.

"Sunny spells elsewhere, with the best of the sunshine in the northwest. Highest temperatures of 15 to 17 degrees, with light to moderate northeasterly breezes."

"Sunday will likely be a cloudy day with outbreaks of rain, heaviest and most persistent over the eastern half of the country. Highest temperatures of 16 to 18 degrees in light to moderate easterly breezes."

Beyond that, forecasters say it will remain "unsettled with low pressure dominating for the early days next week."

Alan O'Reilly of Carlow Weather gave a grim update on the weather front for the coming hours and days.

"Latest weather model updates continue to show over 40mm possible in 24 hours with over 70mm in 36 hours which could lead to some flooding in parts. Cork and Waterford at risk of seeing the highest totals but some models extend that into Wexford also. If you are in an area prone to flooding in the South or Southeast then be alert," he said.
Mr. Kieran ODonnell TD, Minster for State for Local Government and Planning has announced a new allowance of up to 2,500 for Councillors to provide for measures to enhance their personal physical security.

The announcement comes following a number of security and safety incidents experienced by Councillors and the recent introduction of a similar allowance scheme for Oireachtas members.

Regulations signed by Minister ODonnell and Mr Paschal Donohoe TD, Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform set out details of a scheme under which Councillors will be able to claim up to 50% of their personal security costs, to a maximum value of 2,500, whichever is the lesser amount.

The allowance will be made on a once-off, vouched basis and will be administered by Local Authorities. Guidelines regarding the operation of the scheme will issue very shortly to local authorities.

The allowance will allow Councillors to take measures to improve their personal physical security at the Councillors homes following a review to be carried out by a member of An Garda Siochana.

Eligible expenses under the scheme include the installation of intruder alarms, CCTV and the provision of panic buttons/GPS-tracked panic button app. Work to install any security measures must be carried out by Private Security Authority registered installers and must meet industry standards.

Announcing this new allowance, Minister ODonnell stated:

I am pleased to announce that I have signed Regulations to provide for a new security allowance to assist Councillors in enhancing their personal physical security at their homes. This follows the introduction of a similar allowance scheme for Oireachtas members recently.

Councillors will be able to claim up to 50% of their personal security costs, to a maximum value of 2,500, whichever is the lesser amount. The allowance will be made on a once-off, vouched basis and will be administered by the Local Authorities.

This allowance has been introduced in light of increased security and safety incidents experienced by Councillors. I would hope that this allowance will support and ensure that current and future serving councillors can continue to carry out the excellent and vital work they do locally for their communities.
Irish premier Leo Varadkar has said Ireland has been extraordinarily helpful to the British government after the Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris appeared to criticise his remarks on Irish unity.

He also said members of the Irish government were the adults in the room during post-Brexit negotiations.

Senior ministers from the UK and Irish governments remain at odds over comments by Mr Varadkar, branded by the British as unhelpful.

On Monday, Mr Heaton-Harris referenced remarks made by the Taoiseach around Irish unity and the collapse of Stormont.

Mr Varadkar had expressed his belief that he would see unification within his lifetime. He also raising the potential for a plan B if devolved government in Northern Ireland is not restored by the autumn.

Mr Heaton-Harris said unhelpful comments down in Dublin resonate up here amongst the unionist community during his efforts to get the Stormont Assembly restored.

Asked on Thursday about the relationship between the two governments following the remarks, Mr Varadkar said he had not spoken to Northern Ireland Secretary since their meeting in Belfast on Monday.

However, he said deputy premier Micheal Martin should be speaking to him today.

Mr Varadkar added that he will be personally seeing his counterpart Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in Spain at the start of October.

I think relations with the British government are much better than they were. Theyve been up and down since the referendum on Brexit.

Theyve been much better than they were. As I said the other day, I think we as a government have been extraordinarily helpful to the British government.

During my time as Taoiseach, weve negotiated three agreements. First, the backstop with Theresa May.

When they couldnt get up through Parliament, we sat down with Boris Johnson and negotiated a new agreement, which was the Protocol.

When they couldnt stick by that agreement, we didnt throw our toys out of the pram, we were the adults in the room and we sat down with the British government and through the European Union came to a third agreement, which is the Windsor [Framework] and we expect that now to be implemented in good faith.

Meanwhile, speaking separately in Dublin, Tanaiste Micheal Martin said the result of the last Stormont election should be validated and Sinn Feins Michelle ONeill should be First Minister.

The Stormont Assembly has been collapsed for over a year amid DUP protest action over trading arrangements following the UKs exit from the EU.

Sir Jeffrey Donaldsons party wants to see its concerns around a trade border in the Irish Sea addressed by the UK Government.

Mr Martin said he has consistently said the outcome of the election, returning Sinn Fein as the biggest party at Stormont for the first time, should be validated.

He said the DUP missed an opportunity by not returning to Stormont following the Windsor Framework, which aimed to address their concerns.

I have consistently said to all of the parties, including the DUP, that the results should be validated, i.e. Sinn Fein First Minister and the DUP should take their seats, he said.

They instanced the protocol, then the Windsor Framework came to resolve many issues and I think many of the issues the DUP raised were dealt with by Windsor.

I feel it was a missed opportunity in the aftermath of the Windsor Framework not to go back into the Assembly and into the Executive.

The problem in the north is that we have got too much of a stop/start in terms of the Assembly. In the past Sinn Fein collapsed the Assembly, I believe wrongly.
People in Dundalk are being asked to consider taking part in a study conducted by iCRAG, the SFI Research Centre in Applied Geosciences based at University College Dublin.

The project, called, Taking Stock aims to study peoples perceptions of Dundalk Bay, especially the area more than 5 km from the coast that is no longer visible to the naked eye, and what people think of mud on the seabed.

The researchers previously conducted interviews and focus groups and are now following up with a survey distributed among the wider community.

The survey is anonymous and will focus on a person's relationship with Dundalk Bay and how they think the bay should be managed in the future.

It is open for input from adults living in the Dundalk Bay area (anywhere along the coast, from the Cooley Peninsula down to Clogherhead, including towns like Dundalk, Blackrock, Annagassan).

Researchers say they want to include community voices in the future management of Dundalk and that by adding your voice, you help researchers understand what the bay means and how it can be managed.

The results of the survey will be shared with policymakers in the area to help inform future decision-making.

A spokesperson said:

We are working with residents of Dundalk and Clogherhead to understand their ideas and concerns on these topics. For example, what does Dundalk Bay mean to people? And how should mud on the seabed be managed in this area?

An important goal of Taking Stock is to share our results with people in the community, government and industry.

In this way, we can make sure that the voices of local residents are heard when decisions are made on the future of Dundalk Bay and nearby marine areas.

Taking Stock is linked to a larger project called Quest. Researcher Mark Coughlan explains:

Ireland has a large marine area that can store a lot of carbon in mud on the seabed.

However, we are just starting to understand how this works and we do not know how much carbon is currently stored in the seabed, or how much there was in the past.

Meanwhile, Irelands seabed is under increasing pressure because of human activities, for example wind farm development and fishing. It is also affected by climate change.

To fully understand the importance of mud on the seabed for carbon storage, and to sustainably manage this ecosystem, we must study these muds closely.

The Quest project team brings together experienced researchers to do this work.

An important goal of the project is to provide advice on the sustainable management of Irelands offshore environment.

This may include creating Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), or other ways to realise the Governments Climate Action Plan and its commitment to a clean, healthy and diverse marine environment.

Quest will also engage with the public to understand peoples perceptions of mud on the seabed, for example through Taking Stock.

You can complete the survey using this link: https://bit.ly/dundalkbaysurvey
Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) says it is delighted to report that one of its esteemed academics, Angela Hamouda, who is a lecturer in the Department of Business in the Institute was recently invited to participate as a panel member at the Berkeley Middle East Global Women's Entrepreneurship Roundtable Conference and Awards held in Dubai.

At this event Angela was presented with the Award for Most Dynamic Entrepreneurship Educator. Angela from County Louth has been lecturing in DkIT for over 20 years and has recently taken a career break to lecture and research in Al Ain University in Abu Dhabi. Her specialised area is mainly Entrepreneurship and Innovation in business.

A spokesperson for Berkeley Middle East said, We are delighted to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Angela Hamouda, honoured with the esteemed title of 'The Most Dynamic Entrepreneurship Educator' at the prestigious Global Women Entrepreneurship Roundtable Conference and Awards 2023!

"Her dynamic approach to educating aspiring entrepreneurs has made her a true catalyst for growth and innovation.

The award was presented by Dr Musa Shaikh- Group CEO & CFO of Berkeley Middle East Holding. Khulood Shaban- Group CEO & CFO of Berkeley & Lords, Stefan Hofer - Chairman of Berkeley Middle East Investors Club and H.E. Salma Al Qubaisi - President of SALMA AL QUBAISI HOLDING.
Design student Neil ODonoghue has been named as the 2023 recipient of the Conor Farrell Design Award, a collaboration between Ardee-based Farrell Furniture and Atlantic Technological University, Connemara.

Neil is the fourth winner of the now annual award, established in 2020 in tribute to the late Conor Farrell. His winning design, entitled Podium, is a set of fully recyclable end tables, designed in response to the EU Legislation in progress Eco-design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).

This years award presentation took place at the Trees to Treasures Exhibition at Farmleigh House in Phoenix Park, Dublin. Trees to Treasures is an exhibition showcasing excellence and innovation in furniture design, manufacture, technology and education by students, staff and graduates of ATU Connemara.

Having completed four years at ATUs Furniture Design & Manufacturing programme, Neil is now beginning aMasters in Design Innovation at Maynooth University.

Asked what it means to win the award, he said: To win the Conor Farrell Design Award, its a big deal for me, to recognise my design, its a very proud moment. Accolades such as this, supporting the work Im doing, its very encouraging.

Designed utilising eco design principles, Podium consists of three materials, assembled without the use of adhesives, allowing the ease of separation at the products end of life. Two of the materials are biodegradable; linoleum and cotton, with the other being fully recyclable; glass.

Above: Neil ODonoghue's winning design, entitled 'Podium'

Explaining the thought process behind the market-ready product, Neil said: My research began by attending Dutch Design Week in October of 2022, the largest annual design event in Northern Europe.

Research and testing of renewable materials was the theme of the event, which inspired me to conduct my own research into the flooring material linoleum. Linoleum is a biomaterial made from natural, renewable raw materials.

Each Podium consists of two layers of linoleum placed back-to-back, forming one enclosed loop. The shape is achieved from utilising the flexibility and structural properties inherent in linoleum combined with the tension created from hand sewing the material together against two pieces of toughened glass which sit in rebates cut into the linoleum.

The seam sits into a slight groove made in the linoleum. Through prototyping and refinement, Podium is a functional, playful and simplistic design.

This years trophy was designed by Jeremy Madden, Lecturer in Furniture Design and Manufacture, ATU Connemara. Jeremy has over 25 years of experience in education and the furniture industry both nationally and internationally.

ABOVE: Jeremy Madden and Paul Farrell

Im really happy that Neil has won the award this year because his work was the epitome of what Conor had and what he did for Farrells, he was an innovator and creator, Jeremy explained.

Whats unique about Neils design is that he took a chance, he was a risk taker and he used innovation, creativity and especially sustainability. It was those features that set himself out from the other pieces in this years Conor Farrell Design Award.

The standard this year was extremely high. I value the students every year, putting their designs forward, taking a chance, willing to be put on a pedestal and be valued. I think the level and standard every year is increasing.

Jeremy added: Neil and the previous winners should be very proud of their achievements. To see a company invest in students is so important and I think companies such as Farrell know how the future can make a difference.

Taking an opportunity on something thats so dear to their hearts, taking that loss and giving the students an opportunity to take Conors legacy through as a designer in Farrells is really important. Companies like Farrell taking a chance in doing this just shows the commitment that they have to the young designers in Ireland is something that they take very seriously.
The head of Ryanair has stated he would scrap programmes such as Joe Duffy's Liveline if he was running RTE.

Soaps such as Eastenders and the Louise Duffy Show are among other programmes Michael O'Leary would like to see dropped, however he praised the Claire Byre Show and RTE flagship, Morning Ireland.

The airline boss made the comments in response to a question on how he would turn around the scandal-stricken public broadcaster.

It comes as RTE faces a funding crisis exacerbated by a drop-off in licence fee revenue.

Speaking to Sky News' Stephen Murphy, O'Leary said, "RTE is a bit like Aerlingus used to be in the 1980s, you know, probably overstaffed and certainly badly run.

"Would I like to see RTE survive? Yes, clearly. I think news in RTE does a very good job, but there's lots of areas in RTE that, frankly, if it disappeared tomorrow I wouldn't lose too much sleep over it."

When asked to elaborate, O'Leary said, "Watching Eastenders and repeats of Joe Duffy's religious programmes. Liveline would be a good starting point, but if you look at Clare Byrne's programme in the morning, it's terrific, [and] Morning Ireland have a great radio programme.

I asked Michael OLeary how hed turn around @rte - theres a lot of rubbish that needs to be cleaned out. On his chopping list:

@rteliveline

 soaps

@louiseduffyshow



But also a lot of good people:



@rtenews

@TodaywithClaire

@morningireland pic.twitter.com/a8ODLCQkfj  Stephen Murphy (@SMurphyTV) September 14, 2023

"I always look at Newstalk's schedule, they do a great morning with Shane and Ciara. Pat Kenny does three hours then, I think he's terrific. If you look at RTE, the morning programme is great, then Ryan Tubridy plays records for an hour, complete waste of time. Why doesn't Clare Byrne do three hours instead of two hours? And then they cut off to somebody else playing bloody records between 12pm and 1pm. Why doesn't the lunchtime news do that?

"So there's lots of efficiencies that I think you could impose on RTE, but there's a lot of very good people in RTE who do a very good job and I think this summer has been traumatic for them, but there's also a lot of rubbish in there that needs to be cleaned out."
Fianna Fail MEP, Billy Kelleher has said that the Irish Government should follow the example of the French government, and other EU Member State governments, and completely ban the sale of disposable vapes.

I am aware of, and welcome, the Minister for Healths commitment to ban the sale of disposable vapes to under 18s. However, I think we, as a society, should be looking to go further, said Kelleher, a former Fianna Fail Health Spokesperson and current member of the European Parliaments Public Health (SANT) Committee

Disposable vapes are bad for the environment and bad for the wellbeing of an individual. Their lower price point, compared to longer use vapes, makes them enticing to teenagers and those aged over 18 with low incomes.

The French Prime Minister in the past 24 hours has announced a range of anti-smoking measures, including a full ban on disposable vapes. France is joining a growing number of EU and non-EU countries, such as the UK, New Zealand, Australia and Germany, currently in the process of implementing a ban disposable vapes with

From an environmental point of view, tens of thousands of these disposable, plastic items are being used and dumped every week. We dont need them on sale. They dont add anything, and so we should go the full hog, and move to fully ban them.

I believe there is widespread public support for such a ban, and I hope that once the under 18 ban is enacted that the Minister for Health will move quickly to bring about the full ban, concluded Kelleher.
The Lyric Theatre in Northern Ireland is leading the UK Theatre Awards nominations alongside Sheffield Theatres, with five nods apiece.

Agreement, about the events leading up to the peace process, comes from Northern Irish playwright Owen McCafferty  and is up for best new play.

The production about the Good Friday Agreement, which has marked its 25th anniversary this year, features performers playing former secretary of state for Northern Ireland Mo Mowlam, former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams and ex-prime minister Tony Blair.

Enough Of Him, a National Theatre of Scotland and Pitlochry Festival Theatre co-production, and Young Vic Theatres Untitled F*** M*ss S**gon Play are also up for the same gong, UK Theatre Awards announced on Thursday.

Hannah Essex, co-chief executive of UK Theatre, said: We are incredibly proud to celebrate theatre across our four nations and the inspiring work of our UK Theatre members.

This years nominees are a reflection of the quality and diversity of talent, story-telling and community engagement that is needed now more than ever.

We would like to thank all our sponsors for supporting the event and offer our congratulations to all those nominated.

Tony Award winner Garry Hynes has also been nominated for best director at the Lyric for DruidOCasey, which brings together the work of Irish dramatist, Sean OCasey, into one play about rebellion and war.

The President of Ireland Michael D Higgins was among the attendees of the Druid Theatre Company-production based on The Plough And The Stars, The Shadow Of A Gunman, and Juno And The Paycock.

Hynes faces competition from Shakespeare North Playhouses Matthew Dunster and Jimmy Fairhurst for A Midsummer Nights Dream and Omar Elerian for As You Like It, a Royal Shakespeare Company production.

Also among the Lyrics nods is Propaganda: A New Musical, set in Berlin during the Cold War, for best design, Martin McDonagh play The Beauty Queen Of Leenane for best play revival and childrens musical Mirrorball for best show for children and young people.

County Cork actress Siobhan McSweeney, best known for her performance as a nun in Derry Girls, will be hoping to take away best performance in a play for Irish playwright Samuel Becketts Happy Days at the Birmingham Rep.

Bafta-winner McSweeney wrote on X, formerly Twitter; Another heavenly day! Thank you.

She faces competition from West End actor Peter Forbes for On The Beach, Flowers star Daniel Rigby for Accidental Death Of An Anarchist and theatre star Wiliam Young for Of Mice And Men.

Sheffield Theatres, which includes the Crucible, the Lyceum and the Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse, was nominated for best musical production, best play revival, best performance in a musical and best performance in a play.

The award ceremony, hosted by musical theatre star Zoe Birkett, will take place on October 8 at Londons Guildhall.
EBRD loan to expand Baltis trolleybus fleet and modernise street lighting infrastructure

Loan to be complemented by a 2.4 million grant from the E5P Fund, where the EU is the largest contributor

Project, under the EBRD Green Cities programme, to promote resource efficiency and reduce pollution

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is lending 4.6 million to the city of Balti in Moldova to help improve public transport and street lighting infrastructure.

The investment, which totals 7 million, will be complemented by a 2.4 million grant provided by the Eastern Europe Energy Efficiency and Environment Partnership (E5P) Fund, to which the European Union (EU) is the largest contributor. An agreement to this effect was also signed today.

The investment will provide 22 battery-powered trolleybuses and modernise the street lighting system of six priority streets in Moldovas second-largest city. The new buses will improve the citys public transport; they can operate with battery support in areas of the city that do not have overhead wires, expanding the service area. Renewing the trolleybus fleet also addresses a key priority for Balti, enabling it to move towards a greener, more comfortable and more reliable bus service. Improving the street lighting system will reduce the citys energy consumption and carbon footprint, and enhance road security and safety at night.

Catarina Bjorlin Hansen, EBRD Head of Moldova, said: We are proud to reaffirm our commitment to Balti with this second follow-on investment since the city developed its Green City Action Plan in 2021. Resource efficiency, decarbonisation, accessibility and infrastructure modernisation are key priorities for us in Balti. This project will help to keep trolleybuses as the backbone of the transport system, connect the city better and provide accessible public transport for all. Modernising the lighting infrastructure will help provide a safe environment for all citizens of Balti.

Nicolai Grigorisin, Mayor of Balti, said: The project is a much-needed investment for the citys residents. Expanding the fleet will connect rural areas with the city centre more effectively and provide a sustainable transport service that is accessible to all. Investing in the lighting infrastructure will increase coverage of the city and significantly improve energy efficiency. This is an important investment for Balti considering the recent energy crisis.

The E5P is a multi-donor fund founded by Sweden and managed by the EBRD. The EU is the largest contributor and Sweden is the largest bilateral donor. Other donors include the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Lithuania, Moldova, Norway, Poland, Romania and the Slovak Republic.

The project is also being supported by technical cooperation funds financed from the Banks own funds and the Sustainable Infrastructure Fund (the donors to which are Canada, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, South Korea, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, TaiwanBusiness-EBRD Technical Cooperation Fund and the United Kingdom).

Balti joined the flagship EBRD Green Cities programme in 2019, becoming its twenty-ninth member. Moldovas capital, Chisinau, joined the programme in 2016.

The EBRD is a leading institutional investor in Moldova, having invested more than 2 billion in 168 projects to date.
EBRD provides US$ 20 million loan to edible oil manufacturer Afia International

Investment to diversify, enhance and boost environmental sustainability of the value chain

Financing will strengthen companys resilience to food security challenges

The EBRD is supporting Egypts agribusiness sector with a US$ 20 million loan to Afia International, one of the countrys top manufacturers of edible vegetable oils and ghee.

The EBRD financing will support the companys working capital requirements and the purchase of raw materials, including bulk crude vegetable oil. It will also help the company diversify its financing sources by providing approximately 15 per cent of what it needs annually.

The war on Ukraine has had a huge impact on global food security, as both Russia and Ukraine are large exporters of key commodities such as wheat and edible oils. It has pushed up global food prices, particularly in the southern and eastern Mediterranean, which relies heavily on food imports and commodities from these two countries.

Through this new investment, the EBRD is helping Afia International diversify and enhance its local value chain by adding new local suppliers and improving its quality and operating standards, which will help it expand into new export markets.

In addition, the EBRD is helping Afia International raise its inclusion standards by promoting a gender-sensitive internship programme that will increase womens access to employment and training.

Afia International is a fully owned subsidiary of Savola Foods, ultimately owned by Savola Group, a publicly listed company headquartered in Jeddah and one of Saudi Arabias leading agribusiness companies with a strong presence in the Middle East and North Africa region and Turkiye.

Since 2012 the EBRD has invested 10.4 billion in 167 projects in Egypt, with almost 57 per cent of its portfolio in private sector projects.
A BABY who died shortly after birth in Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUMH) did not receive blood for some 22 minutes despite being born very anaemic and acutely unwell, an inquest has heard.

Concerns were also raised that when an emergency call was made for help resuscitating baby Tom Luke Moynihan, the consultant on call did not receive that first emergency call for help.

Baby Tom was born extremely pale and his heartbeat was not detected after he was delivered by emergency caesarean at 6.43pm on May 27, 2016, the inquest at Cork Coroners Court has heard.

His mother, Lisa Moynihan, had noticed blood running down her legs and found herself standing in a pool of blood while at work following a substantial painless unprovoked antepartum haemorrhage.

She was brought to CUMH by ambulance where an emergency caesarean section was performed as her babys heartbeat had dropped dangerously low.

At 6.43pm, Baby Tom Luke was delivered. He was pale and no fetal heartbeat was detected. Work began to resuscitate the baby and staff midwife Fiona Coady activated the hospital emergency telephone number requesting a full neonatal team to attend the theatre.

Consultant Anesthetist, Dr Mary Walsh, who attended to both Baby Tom and his mother that evening, said that the baby looked like he had lost a lot of blood which would suggest that fluid was needed urgently.

Saline was administered while they waited for blood to arrive. Blood was administered at 7.05pm.

Baby Tom was pronounced dead at 7.17pm.

'Warning Signs'

The babys heart rate had been on the floor and his mother had suffered a painless substantial antepartum hemorrhage  all significant warning signs  barrister for the family and partner and head of the Clinical Negligence Unit of Callan Tansey Solicitors, Roger Murray SC, said.

Blood tests showed haemoglobin (HB) at 10.5, which denotes anaemia and can suggest significant blood loss.

Yet, it took some 22 minutes to get him blood, Mr Murray said.

The inquest heard that blood is not kept locally in CUMH. It is instead kept centrally at the blood bank in the main Cork University Hospital.

Dr Walsh said that it can take some five minutes to get blood products from the blood bank in Cork University Hospital to CUMH.

But Dr Walsh and a number of midwives noted that 0 Negative blood, which is generally considered safe for all blood types, was always kept in a fridge in neonatal theatre in the former St Finbarrs and Erinville hospitals and could be given "instantaneously".

Concerns were raised by staff at the time about the emergency call system. Carmel Lehane, Clinical Midwife Manager in the obstetric theatre at the time, suggested that a consultant should either be automatically included in the emergency response team, or that someone calling for help should be asked if a consultant is required as part of the emergency response team.

The inquest heard that shortly after Baby Toms death, a new system was introduced so that when someone makes an emergency call for help within the hospital, the receptionist will ask the caller whether they want a consultant as part of their emergency response team.

Review Promised

The Moynihans were promised a review at the hospital following the babys death. But for six years they heard nothing, Mr Murray said.

But a letter sent on Tuesday, September 12, from Mairead ORiordan, Clinical Director at CUMH, extended deepest sympathies to the Moynihan family.

Whilst we did review the care of Ms Moynihan and Baby Tom in a number of fora, which led to a change in practice, the formal internal review was not carried out," the letter said.

I sincerely apologise for the failure to complete the planned internal review and for the additional distress this has caused you.

Receiving any response was of some solace to the family, Mr Murray said.

Mr Murray said that Mrs Moynihan had had a trouble-free pregnancy, diligently attending all antenatal appointments and GP visits. Tom was her first baby.

The Moynihans nightmare began when at 36 weeks and two days pregnant, Lisa Moynihan felt something pop inside her while she was at work serving a customer.

When she looked down, she was standing in a pool of blood" but she felt no pain.

An ambulance brought her to hospital on May 27, 2016, at approximately 5.50pm.

A nurse checking my sons heartbeat said she could hear his heart beating and it was strong, to which I replied thats music to my ears, Mrs Moynihan said.

But then things took a very sudden turn, she said.

The sense of panic was palpable at this stage.

"I was told that I was going for an emergency caesarean and that I needed to be put under straight away. I thought that something was wrong with me and that I was going to die.

When I woke up, I found Sean [her husband] standing over me with tears in his eyes saying how our son didnt survive. I couldnt believe what I was hearing, his heart was beating, he was healthy. I started to shake, I was in shock.

Their beautiful boy was still warm when his father, Sean Moynihan, held him at the hospital.

Rare Condition

The Moynihans were told that Mrs Moynihan had suffered the rare condition vasa praevia.

In vasa previa, some fetal umbilical cord blood vessels run across or very close to the internal opening of the cervix.

These vessels are unprotected by the umbilical cord or the placenta and are therefore at risk of rupturing when the membranes break.

If the membranes tear during labour, the blood vessels might also tear with the baby potentially losing a life-threatening amount of blood.

It is also possible that when the baby drops into the pelvis, the vessels may be compressed, affecting its blood supply and causing oxygen deprivation.

A low-lying placenta is one of the risks for this condition.

The inquest in front of Philip Comyn and a jury of five women and one man, continues.
A CORK principal has claimed that investing in education is more important than investing in any other piece of infrastructure in Ireland and said investment in that sector will attract foreign inward investment to the country.

Principal of Kinsale Community School Fergal McCarthy was speaking to The Echo following the publication of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) report, Education at a Glance 2023, which ranks Ireland in last place out of 36 countries for investment in education as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP).

In 2020, the year analysed, Ireland invested 1% of GDP in second-level education compared to the OECD average of 2% and EU average of 1.9%.

Expenditure per second-level student was $11,379 compared to an OECD average of $11,942 and EU average of $11,696.

In 2020, total expenditure on primary to tertiary education in Ireland was 3.2% of GDP, much lower than the OECD average of 5.1% and EU average of 4.5%.

Mr McCarthy said that investment in the sector is key.

Investing in education is more important than investing in any other piece of infrastructure in Ireland. It is an investment in our human capital. Its an investment that will attract foreign inward investment to our country because our graduates are seen as being very, very well qualified with the appropriate skillset to meet the 21st century needs of dynamic employers.

President of the Association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland (ASTI) Geraldine OBrien said that a significant increase in investment in schools is required in the upcoming Budget.

Increased spending during the pandemic period helped to ensure schools could remain open insofar as possible, but these additional supports were temporary.

What is needed is a commitment to close the investment gap between Ireland and the rest of the world.

The Irish National Teachers Organisation (INTO) general secretary John Boyle insisted that the Government must commit to funding at least up to the OECD average in Budget 2024.

The findings of the OECD report, make abundantly clear that a massive increase in school funding will have to be delivered in Budget 2024 next month.

The Government must commit to funding at least up to the OECD average to ensure that primary schools have sustainable funding in place. Our children deserve no less, Mr Boyle said.
A 41-year-old man who had been staying out of trouble in recent years was caught shoplifting at Supervalu in Carrigaline and now he has been fined and given a short suspended sentence.

Jason OBrien of Church Hill, Carrigaline, County Cork, pleaded guilty at Cork District Court to a charge of theft at the supermarket on February 25.

49 worth of property was stolen during the shoplifting incident.

Sergeant Pat Lyons said the defendant was convicted eleven times in the past for the same offence.

Eddie Burke, solicitor, said the defendant who is originally from Passage West, had a horrendous record from when he was a juvenile and early adult but had stayed out of trouble for the past few years and was in a stable relationship.

Judge Marian OLeary asked: Why did he start up again (with this theft)?

Mr Burke said: He was in financial difficulties and under pressure at home.

Judge OLeary convicted and fined him and impose a three-week prison term suspended on condition that he stays out of trouble for the next year.
The Director of Public Prosecutions directed that a student accused of having over 6,000 worth of cannabis and of the money-laundering of 3,700 could have his case dealt with at district court level but only on a plea of guilty.

Garda Kevin ONeill outlined the allegations in the case so that Judge Olann Kelleher could decide if he too would accept jurisdiction to hear the case at Cork District Court.

Judge Kelleher said he would accept jurisdiction when he was informed of the allegations.

Mervyn Salemba who is living at an apartment at Eden Hall, Model Farm Road, Cork, had the case against him adjourned until October 9 and solicitor Daithi O Donnabhain was appointed to represent him on free legal aid.

Sergeant Gearoid Davis said a search was carried out at the defendants apartment on August 23, 2022. It was alleged that a quantity of drugs with an approximate street value of 6,100 was found in his bedroom, along with two weighing scales and deal bags.

Judge Olann Kelleher adjourned the case until October 9 after he accepted jurisdiction.

The defendant was charged with having cannabis and having the drug for the purpose of sale or supply to others.

Garda ONeill brought an additional charge against the 20-year-old. The money-laundering charge stated that on the same date he had 3,700 in cash, knowing that it was the proceeds of criminal conduct.
A row over the use of toilet facilities at the Kinsale Road accommodation centre saw one man punching another breaking three of his teeth, which were repaired by a friend for 40, and it was claimed that the assailant is now both the victims friend and his barber.

27-year-old Mohammed El Farissi, 27, assaulted Yakoob Yehrabi on December 2, 2021 at block 4 of the accommodation centre.

Sergeant John Kelleher said at Cork District Court that the 28-year-old injured party told gardai that he confronted the defendant about using his toilet facilities and an argument ensued and the defendant struck the injured party damaging three of his teeth.

The defendant was later interviewed and said he hit the injured party but that it was in self-defence.

The injured party got his teeth fixed for 40 by a friend in Dublin, Sgt Kelleher said.

Solicitor, Killian McCarthy represented Mr El Farissi on free legal aid and said the defendant was in Ireland as a refugee from Morocco since 2021.

Mr McCarthy said on behalf of the defendant that he is the injured partys barber now and that the defendant and the injured party are quite good friends since this occurred in December 2021.

Mr El Farissi pleaded guilty to the assault charge.

Judge Olann Kelleher adjourned the case until November 8 to allow time for preparation of a probation report.
THE Cork Comic Expo is returning for a third volume, with Mahon Point Shopping Centre set to host this celebration of pop culture on Saturday, September 16.

A host of big name creators are scheduled to make an appearance, including Corks own Will Sliney.

The Ballycotton native is riding the crest of a wave over his work on Spider-Man and Star Wars, and he has a television show called Storytellers on RTE. Sliney also revealed earlier this year that his graphic novel series, The Shrouded College, will be adapted for television by legendary producer and Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane.

To see such an event come to life for a third time in his home city is extra special to Sliney, who organises the event with Mahon Point and Big Bang Comics.

Its kind of funny that it has been going on for so long now. It is really good fun to do and it is great that Mahon Point do this with us, said Sliney.

Its different to other comic-cons because we get to do it in such a public location and that really brings in a different crowd as well as the normal crowd that are used to comic-cons.

I guess the people that are morbidly curious about comics get to come along and see how nice and welcoming the whole thing is. It is a fab thing to be a part of.

Sliney is just piece of the team that is working together to make sure that the Cork Comic Expo gets bigger and better with every event.

It is all being organised with the team inside Big Bang Comics and the team at Mahon Point, he explained.

We have a system in place. We know how many tables we have. Myself and Big Bang Comics put up the signal there and asked the guests to see who wants to come down. Everyone usually does, which is lovely.

The calibre of talent of talent is growing massively. We have guests that are working on some of the biggest comics in the world. Its just a sign of how the comics scene in Cork, and Ireland, is massively changing and evolving which is cool.

The first Cork Comic Expo took place in 2015 and hundreds of people went to Mahon Point to meet creators and talk to other fans. That was followed by another event in 2018, and the third edition has come into fruition after being put on hold over the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021.

The first expo coincided with an explosion in comic-book culture in Cork, with a number of local artists going on to work on titles in the United States.

Slineys path was followed by Chris OHalloran, with the colourist working on titles at Marvel, DC, and Dark Horse. East Corks Kevin Keane is the latest name to emerge, with the artist currently working on Spawn with Image Comics.

The pipeline of creators out of Cork - and in Ireland - is real and it shows with the amount of people coming down to Leeside to showcase their work at the Comic Expo.

Olivia Jade OSullivan, Harry Bruton, Savannah Bruton and Tyler OSullivan, at the last Cork Comic Expo at Mahon Point Shopping Centre, Cork, in 2018.

Its still the same place, but we have twice the amount of exhibitor tables than we had when we first started, Sliney explained.

Theres just more stuff. The first year was downstairs and the second year we went upstairs as well. Now it is a case of where can we fit extra tables which is quite cool. That side of it has grown.

As I mentioned, the amount of people working in the comic book industry has vastly grown.

Were still keeping it as the same thing. Its still free and we have our art competition, people will come along and cosplay, and well try and have some fun prizes on the day if that is possible.

At the very least, people get to come along and see the creators that are working on these very big books in the comic book industry.

Thats just part of the itinerary that will be packed with events at Mahon Point. Something will be there for everyone, and the event will cater for children and adults that are fans of comic-books, art, and animation.

Were going to have some workshops for kids to learn how to draw. Those are wildly popular, Sliney explained.

Id advise getting in touch in Mahon Point or getting there early so you can get in. Im not sure if we are going to pre-book them this time.

Theres going to be a big collection of comic book artists and they usually bring along the comics that they worked on and prints of the characters that they worked on.

There are fans of big characters like Spider-Man, Deadpool, Batman, and so on. These huge characters. Someone will have worked on all of these amazing characters.

On the show floor, as we will call it, you can go out and check out their stuff and their work and go and meet them.

One thing that I would recommend for someone that likes to draw, is to make sure to bring your own art. That is the kind of thing that I had to do when I wanted to break into comics, and it got me to where I am.

Who knows, you could get really good advice to put yourself on a fun path in this world with drawing, comics and animation.
READER John Barry was delighted with last weeks Throwback Thursday.

A great read, as usual, and I loved seeing the photos, he said of the Glaheen NS pictures we ran.

I do recall a picture of myself and a few others appearing in the Echo, taken as we played conkers in the school yard. Unfortunately I have no idea where I put it.

Well, we managed to find the original picture, which was actually taken in 1955.

Im second on the right in that, said Mr Barry. One of my brothers thinks the lad on the left is Ger Coakley, who was from Model Farm Road. His father built and ran the pub at The Lough and I think Gers sister runs it now.

Anyone recognise the other conker-playing kids here? Email jokerrigan1@gmail.com or leave a comment on our Facebook page.

John well remembers some of the teachers at Glasheen school mentioned last week. Mr Crowley became the headmaster, there was Mr Holly of course, and Mr Bernie Coughlan. A Miss OLeary taught me in the early years. I remember she lived near the Rugby Club, behind the CUH.

With regard to the owner of The Queens Hotel, on the corner of Parnell Place and Merchant Quay, also mentioned last week, he writes: Hanna Connolly was her maiden name. Her married name was Quirke, but she was better known as Connolly. One of her brothers had a pub in North Main Street. The better-known brother was Paddy Connolly who owned the hotel in Owenahincha. Anyone who ever asked in the bar What time do you close? usually got the reply, about October

Paddy also owned a Ford garage in Skibbereen, while Paddys wife had the Motor Arms pub in Anglesey Street. That place was like a sub office to the Munster Motorcycle and Car Club at Vernon Mount as it was frequented by a lot of club members.

Johns anecdote about the Owenahincha pub reminds this writer of the great old pub at Loo Bridge, once a stop on the Kenmare railway line (you can still see the line of the tracks running through the woods in that valley, and they DO say you can hear the ghost train at night, especially around Halloween)

One October in the 1960s, a gang of us had just checked into the youth hostel there (now alas also gone) in the early afternoon, and went over to the pub to see whether they did food at night (a vain hope back then, but you never knew your luck). They were just putting up the shutters. Afternoon break, we thought, but then checked for safety.

When do you open again? A pause from the elderly lady cleaning the counter. About May, I suppose

Crisis! A swift call to a friend in Ballyvourney saved our bacon (and our pints) as the great old Mills Inn stayed open ALL the year! Sixty years on, thanks Jim!

Page from the Cork directory of 1941, where old business names and owners can be found.

Fintan Bloss was also interested in the story on Merchants Quay last week, and thoughtfully sent us a page from a 1941 Cork directory which he thought might be of interest. And it certainly will be, Fintan.

What fascinating detail it gives on who lived or carried on a business there, where exactly, and what they did.

These old directories are wonderful mines of information. Mr Bloss is fortunate enough to own a copy of this particular tome, but you can look up many of them online at the city or county libraries.

Just look at what is represented there at Merchants Quay in days gone by. Shipping agents, a shipsmith (very necessary in a busy port), ironmongers, sheet metal workers, harness makers, plumbers and gas fitters, all reflecting local services for local needs.

Also, entertainment, sustenance and cultural life too - a great many vintners, tea merchants, and fruit stores.

There was also The Central Lending Library (prop Mrs Lynch) where busy workers could presumably pop in to change their novels. (Hey, does anyone remember a tiny lending library on the corner of Patrick Street and Daunts Square/Grand Parade? Opposite side to Woodford Bournes? In the 1950s, it would lend out books from its scant supply at 2d or 3d a time. The decorative red brick tiny corner structure is still there.)

Also on that list of old traders, Mrs Longs Refreshment Rooms, where she was assisted in dealing out the plates of stew by Mrs ONeill and Miss OConnor.

Magahys organ factory appears too. This was the renowned T. W. Magahy, who in 1889 undertook the mammoth task of moving the huge and splendid instrument at St Fin Barres Cathedral from the west gallery where it had originally been placed (but where it was badly situated for accompanying the choir in the east gallery), to a specially dug 14 pit in the north transept, so that only the tops of the tallest pipes now showed.

Moving a big organ was no easy task - remember the kerfuffle that surrounded the removal of the great old Hammond at the Savoy, where Fred Bridgeman delighted audiences for so long?

Even the legendary Crowleys musical instrument shop was here on Merchants Quay in 1941, listed, interestingly, as a bagpipe maker! Now, we wonder if that was for the Scottish blowing type or the more traditional Irish uileann pipe?

Sheena, daughter of Michael Crowley, and now the proud proprietor of the reopened Crowleys in the new location of Friar Street - do you have any of the old records which might show the creation of bagpipes? Do tell us, please!

And the Lee Hotel on the corner of Parnell Place is listed as being owned or run by a Mary OConnor. Now was that a misprint for Hannah Connolly (mentioned higher up the page) or did one take over from the other?

So many fun questions, sending the avid researcher into local history off on yet another winding laneway!

Incidentally, we have been wondering for some time whether Merchant Quay or Merchants Quay is the correct nomenclature.

According to that directory, the street behind was Merchant Street, but the quay itself was Merchants (no apostrophe). But then, those names probably changed many times over the centuries that Cork carried on its business by the river. After all, Merchant Street was formerly Fish Street (cant you visualise the barrels of herrings and sprats, the water flowing down the cobbled gutter, the raucous cries of the women selling Fresh fish, caught today!?)

And Merchants Quay ran from Patrick Street to Warren Place, not Parnell Place. We did know Parnell Place was called something else in earlier times - what was it now? Oh yes - Cold Harbour originally, echoing what must have been a tidal fact of life, followed by Nelsons Quay, commemorating a British hero (we were the biggest victualling harbour for the English fleet at the time), and then Warrens Place.

Any clues to the identity of Warren out there ? Do let us know!

On the topic of schooling, and particularly the Christian Brothers, who have had a less than positive airing at times in these pages, Tim Morley has written to balance the scales a little.

Just a thought which you might think worth passing on. I went to The Quay (Sullivans Quay CBS), and ended up thinking quite benevolently about the brothers. Then the scandals started coming in, and the response of their heads was not very skilled, I have to say.

But I got to thinking about them and my time there, and realised that, apart from a disastrous small percentage (par for the course, I would think, where forced celibacy exists?) they have in fact done a great job for Ireland (and myself).

For my part, I think the Christian Brothers have been hard done by historically. In particular some of their teachers were brilliant.

In Pres, they claimed that Freddy Holland was the best Maths teacher in Ireland.

For my part, I would have said that a Bro McInerney was the best general secondary teacher in Ireland. George Duncan might want to throw in his comments, Denis O Sullivan was a lecturer in Education at UCC, an academic source on the subject, (Also, Joe Lee, that great and celebrated historian, was contemporaneous, at Synge Street CBS, the top CB school.)

Tim makes some very valid points and we would like to know if others feel strongly that they got an excellent education from the Christian Brothers. It is only fair to put both sides of the discussion on the page, and we would very much like to hear from you.

Throwback Thursday reader Pat Kelly (right) sent in this photo of himself with his brother at the Victoria Hotel in Patrick Street in 1947, taken by a street photographer. Behind them was 50 Shilling Tailors, later to be Porters newsagents

And, finally, once more we are back to that popular theme of the street photographers of the 40s and 50s, with a charming picture sent in by Pat Kelly.

Hello Jo., he writes, I thought you might be interested in a photo of my brother and I, taken by a street photographer at the Victoria Hotel in Patrick Street in 1947. I am on the right, and, just at my brothers head is the 50 Shilling Tailors, frequented by many men of the city. I think it later became Porters, a newsagents and card shop. (Well, that too is now gone, Pat.)

Pat tells us that he had a head of blond curls at the time, and I hated them, as women would coo over me and pretend to take a curl!

Well, we have to admit you do look adorable in the photo, Pat, and you cant blame the ladies for stopping to stroke your head. (Although, in todays over-sensitive society, that would probably cause trouble!)

And hey, Pat, weve just noticed, your brother has one sock up and the other down!

Keeping your socks up was always a problem. Remember the Just William books, where boys still wore garters for that purpose, but the bold hero was always taking them off to use as catapults or other far more important projects?

You all have memories of those golden days of childhood, whether it was pulling your socks up or dodging the caresses of doting ladies, sitting in a classroom or wandering down the old lanes of our fabled city.

Please share them with us! Others will love to read them and recapture their own younger days.

Email jokerrigan1@gmail.com. Or leave a comment on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/echolivecork.
The validity of medical degrees of the Indian students pursuing their medicine courses in the Philippines has been in question ever since the National Medical Commission (NMC) released the Foreign Medical Graduate Licentiate (FMGL) Regulations 2021.

As per the regulations, the medical degree acquired in the Philippines has become invalid to practise in India. This especially poses risk of employability for students who were already studying in the country before the guidelines were released by the apex body for medical education in India.

Several medical students and parents have protested against these guidelines and have urged the NMC for an exemption from the November 2021 gazette as a one time measure.

FMGL Regulations 2021

In an official gazette released on November 18, 2021, the NMC laid out criteria for eligibility of Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) for a licence or permanent registration to practise in India.

The guidelines made it mandatory for any candidate looking to practise medicine in India, to have undergone a course of theory, practical and clinical training equivalent to Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in India.

The regulations also add that the FMG should have undergone a course leading to a foreign medical degree with a minimum duration of fifty-four months as well as an internship for a minimum duration of twelve months in the same foreign medical institution.

Issue with Philippines degree

The medical programme in the Philippines consists of two parts  Bachelor of Science (BS) which is equivalent to a pre-medical course in the USA and Doctor of Medicine (MD), equivalent to MBBS. The course duration is six years including two years of a pre-medical curriculum.

However, the NMC has refused to recognise the BS course for the required minimum duration of 54 months in order to practise in India. The NMC clarified that this is because the pattern of the BS course which is taught prior to the MD course is in line with the module of Class X and Class XII in India and hence, could not be considered a part of the medical degree programme.

This has left the students currently pursuing medical education in the Philippines in uncertainty about their future as they could not be treated as eligible to practise medicine in India.

Samunder Singh Rajpurohit, who took admission into a medical college in the Philippines in 2020, explained his concerns.

NMC has not given any concrete reply on our issue. This is unfair to the students who took admission in 2020, before the regulations were released. A medical degree from the Philippines is recognised by WHO (World Health Organization). We will be eligible to practise in the USA, UK and all over the world but cannot practise in our own country. Most FMGs want to come back to India and practise medicine but because of these new regulations, that door has been closed for us, explained Samunder.

The student expressed that since the regulations were introduced in the middle of their degree, the 2020 batch of Philippines medical students must be provided with an exemption or special dispensation from the regulations.

Parents of medical students pursuing their degrees in the Philippines have held protests and sent representations to the NMC seeking these relaxation measures. However, no clarification has been issued by the NMC so far.

Rawal Singh Rajpurohit, another student of Gullas College of Medicine, Cebu, Philippines, said We started our MD course in 2022, two years after taking admission into a medical college in the Philippines. Now, it is being said that our degree will be invalid as NMC doesn't recognise BS courses. We have mailed NMC and have taken the issue up on social media as well but NMC has not responded to any of our pleas.




Canadian beef and meat industry's campaign seeks to discourage admitting UK into CPTPP

Canada's beef and red meat industry is asking the public for help to prevent the United Kingdom from joining a trade deal.

The Canadian Cattle Association (CCA), Canadian Meat Council and National Cattle Feeders' Association (NCFA) launched a campaign on September 12 called "Say No To a Bad Deal." Their goal is to pressure the Canadian federal government not to formally admit the UK into the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

"Tell the Federal Government to say no to a bad trade deal and renegotiate the CPTPP with the United Kingdom," says the campaign's website. "Trade deals only make sense when they are fair to Canadians."

The campaign stems from an announcement in July when Canada and other Pacific nations welcomed the UK into the CPTPP. At a signing ceremony in New Zealand, Britain became the 12th member of the trade pact, joining Canada, Australia, Brunei, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam.

Canadian International Trade Minister Mary Ng supported the addition of the United Kingdom to the CPTPP, noting in a news release that Canada and the UK are committed to "open, predictable and inclusive" trade.

Canada's red meat sector, however, doesn't share the opinion. Beef and pork groups slammed the decision, saying the UK has not met the standards of the free trade agreement. The central issue is that the UK does not recognise the safety of Canada's meat processing and food production systems. Hence, British authorities cannot permit imports of Canadian beef or pork.

"The proposed agreement will see the UK exporting over $50 million of their meat products into the Canadian market, while Canada will be unable to export any meat products into their market," a release from the CCA, the meat council and the NCFA stated.

The Canadian government is working on a bilateral deal with the UK, within CPTPP, to sort out issues like red meat trade.

Canada's parliament must pass any legislation that allows the UK to join the CPTPP. The beef and meat groups want federal politicians to reject the legislation.

"The CPTPP sets a high standard for progressive trade and the deal proposed with the UK would set a dangerous precedent for future countries looking to join," said Nathan Phinney, CCA's president.

Chris White, Canadian Meat Council's president and chief executive, said there are other consequences if science-based rules are abandoned in trade deals.

"Not only will this deal hurt the pockets of Canadian meat processors and farmers, it additionally puts consumers at risk by deprioritising scientific-based controls and lowering the bar for international regulations."

The UK's refusal to accept imports of Canadian beef and pork is connected to the UK farm lobby.

Agricultural groups have pressured the UK government to keep Canadian beef and pork out of Britain, claiming that meat products from Canada are produced with inferior standards.

Meanwhile, the groups in Canada may have some support in Ottawa.

In August, an Agriculture Canada spokesperson said the government expects the UK to comply with the rules of the CPTPP. This includes regulations around the import of Canadian beef and pork, which should be "science- and risk-based."



- BIV
It emerged last week that Roblox would finally make its bow on PlayStation some time this October, and Sony revealed the exact date during its State of Play showcase. You'll be able to hop into the ultra-popular sandbox on PS4 and PS5 (albeit through backward compatibility) on October 10. There will be full cross-platform support, so you should be able to check out the many, many experiences Roblox has to offer with your friends, even if they access it via mobile, PC, VR or Xbox.

Sony had been opposed to having Roblox on PlayStation for some time owing to safety concerns (most of Roblox's 66 million daily active users are younger players). But court documents that emerged during the recent FTC and Microsoft legal battle indicated that Sony's stance on the issue softened as of last year.
Bangladeshi officials hail BRI for ushering in new dawn for global development

Xinhua) 15:44, September 14, 2023

DHAKA, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has ushered in a new dawn for economies in dire need for infrastructural developments in Asia and beyond, Bangladeshi officials have said.

They also hailed the BRI as a mutually beneficial platform for cooperation for all the countries and regions participating in the initiative during discussions held recently in Dhaka.

Dilip Barua, general secretary of the Communist Party of Bangladesh (Marxist-Leninist), said the BRI not only operates in Bangladesh, but also reached different corners of the world, including Africa, Europe and Latin America.

Bangladeshi Planning Minister MA Mannan said that every country needs to improve the life of their farmers and workers, and infrastructural development is one of ways to do that. "With this in mind we are working on infrastructural development projects and China is supporting us by providing loans and technology."

With reference to duty-free treatment of 98 percent Bangladeshi goods to China, he said "this will help bolster our trading partnership and we are grateful to China for this opportunity."

The minister said Bangladesh wants more collaboration with China in technological area.

Rashed Khan Menon, who is the president of the Workers' Party of Bangladesh, an ally of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's ruling alliance, said that the BRI projects that have been implemented are changing the whole world in the last 10 years.

"If we look at our country, we can see that our infrastructure sector along with other sectors advanced a lot due to this. Padma Bridge is one of examples of this advancement," said Menon.

"Western countries are trying to defame the BRI by various means," Menon said, noting some people try to promote the idea that joining the BRI results in falling into debt trap. In Bangladesh, the amount of Chinese loans is far less than that of the World Bank, Japan, the European Union and the United States.

This kind of initiative can speed up development, he said, stressing that any tale could harm development.

Noting that Bangladesh is the first South Asian country to join the initiative, Charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh Yan Hualong said that China and Bangladesh have had numerous achievements in Belt and Road cooperation, setting an example for such cooperation.

The BRI, a reference to the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, was initiated by China in 2013 to build trade and infrastructure networks connecting Asia with Europe and Africa on and beyond ancient Silk Road trade routes.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
A grizzly bear in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. (Photo by Frank van Manen / USGS / Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 / Unedited)

A hunter shot and injured a grizzly bear near Fairfield in the Freezeout Lake Wildlife Management Area on Tuesday. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is still looking for the bear.

According to a FWP press release Wednesday, the hunter was hunting for upland birds on private lands when he was charged by the grizzly, believed to be an adult male. Less than 15 feet away from the bear, the hunter fired twice with his shotgun and hit the grizzly once, causing it to run away. The hunter was not injured.

As part of the open investigation, FWP bear management and law enforcement conducted a search Tuesday and Wednesday, on foot, using drones and with a helicopter, covering more than four square miles. They were not able to find the bear, but did find evidence it was wounded and believe it left the immediate area.

FWP said the bear is likely seeking cover in and around abandoned buildings and in areas with thick brush, warning nearby residents to be cautious. The department is also putting signs up in the area advising hunters to be vigilant for bears.

With pheasant hunting season approaching and other upland bird seasons already open, FWP reminds all hunters to be extra cautious when afield, the release said.

This bear encounter happened in the same week a hunter was attacked near Big Sky on Friday. FWP concluded their investigation into the altercation, saying in a press release Wednesday one of the victims companions fired a pistol at the bear before the bear left. The victim suffered serious injuries from the bear and was flown to a hospital. Custer Gallatin National Forest implemented an emergency area closure for public safety following the incident and the closure remains in effect.

FWP staff did not find the bear, but found evidence of bear activity in the area.

Bears are active longer this time of year as they eat in preparation for hibernation. However, this period overlaps with hunting season and other fall recreation activities when folks are more likely to encounter bears.

Bear Aware Tips from FWP: Avoiding conflicts with bears is easier than dealing with conflicts. Here are some precautions to help residents, recreationists and people who work outdoors avoid negative bear encounters: Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it immediately.

Make noise to alert bears to your presence and travel in groups.

Stay away from animal carcasses, which often attract bears.

Follow food storage orders from the applicable land management agency.

If you encounter a bear, never approach it. Leave the area when it is safe to do so.

Keep garbage, bird feeders, pet food and other attractants put away in a secure building. Keep garbage in a secure building until the day it is collected. Certified bear-resistant garbage containers are available in many areas.

Never feed wildlife. Bears that become food conditioned lose their natural foraging behavior and pose threats to human safety. It is illegal to feed bears in Montana. People who hunt in places that have or may have grizzly bearswhich includes areas of Montana west of Billingsshould take special precautions: Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it immediately.

Watch for and be extra cautious around bear sign, creeks and areas with limited visibility.

Hunt with a group of people. Making localized noise can alert bears to your presence.

Be aware that elk calls and cover scents can attract bears.

Bring the equipment and people needed to help field dress game and remove the meat from the kill site as soon as possible.

If you need to leave part of the meat in the field during processing, hang it at least 10 feet off the ground and at least 150 yards from the gut pile. Leave it where it can be observed from a distance of at least 200 yards.

Upon your return, observe the meat with binoculars. If it has been disturbed or if a bear is in the area, leave and call FWP.

The post Hunter shoots, injures grizzly near Fairfield appeared first on Daily Montanan.
Im not saying that our pickup truck is definitely possessed by a demon, but I also cannot say definitively that it is not.

We have owned a certain brand of pickup truck throughout our adult lives. We are nothing if not brand loyal. Two of the three of these vehicles were driven for 20 years and quite nearly 300,000 miles respectively. That is not a typo. 300,000 miles.

Notice I said two out of the three? That is because one of these trucks is not like the others. This one, the newest, lowest mileage and not, unironically, the MOST EXPENSIVE VEHICLE WE HAVE EVER OWNED is, in fact, possessed by the devil. Or something.

Stuck

Two months ago, it just decided that it would not go into any forward gear. You could, of course, go anywhere you wanted in reverse. That, however, did seem limiting.

Sure, Mr. Wonderful was willing to give traveling backwards from Pennsylvania to Ohio entirely in reverse a go but I, the ultimate buzzkill, said no. I am known for stealing all the joy.

It was dutifully delivered to a nearby dealership. We were then informed that a simple part that is known to fail in all of their vehicles had, in fact, failed. Talk about planned obsolescence.

In failing, that part destroyed the entire transmission. This isnt my opinion. This is a fact. There are class action suits over this. Im sure knowing that sometime in the future we will all get a check for 15 cents will be quite a comfort.

The mechanic who, after all, didnt build the truck, he just works there, felt real bad about it, but it was not under recall. It would be about $7,000 to repair  on a truck that is only a few years old. Again, not a typo. $7,000 dollars on a known issue spanning a decade of vehicles and they simply shrug and say sorry. I have never been so disappointed.

I was given a corporate number to call, and I did so. They took a week to get back to me with the sentiment that they were so sorry and the offer of a whopping 10% discount on the repair. They also cheerfully offered us reward points  not on the repair, but if we wished to purchase a brand new vehicle instead.

Nothing takes the sting out of your nearly new truck being decimated by a manufacturer defect quite like a free can koozie and a promotional keyring, am I right?

I am telling you we used to wax rhapsodic and sing the praises of this brand. We brought our firstborn home from the hospital in the exact same truck he would learn to drive in 16 years  and endless miles and DIY projects  later. To say we were committed would be an understatement.

I tried to cheat on the brand once. I drove a competing brand of truck for 13 months until I couldnt take it anymore and let it go. We were just deeply, unequivocally loyal.

It took two months to have the repair completed. At times I completely forgot we even owned a truck. Other times I took some perverse joy in saying Oh if ONLY we had a truck 

Clearly, I am a delight.

The truck did finally return to us. It is amazing how well something works in all gears if you throw enough money at it. I was mad at it but also it was nice to have a truck again.

Slip

One week later a car slipped out of park and rolled backwards right into it. You really cannot make this stuff up. Fortunately it was a pretty small car  and its a fair sized truck with a big ol bumper. The car definitely got the short end of that stick, which is fitting since the car clearly started it.

Still we just rolled our eyes.

Today, as I type, Mr. Wonderful has sent me a message with a photo attached. He said has anyone else driven my truck? The attached photo shows the truck with a huge dent in the tailgate. We are two grown adults. The answer is no. No one else drives it.

Anyone who knows me knows that if I had been present when that happened Mr. Wonderful  and everyone else  would have heard ALL ABOUT IT.

How did this happen? Tree limb? Trailer? A particularly heavy bird crash landed? Nothing.

This leads us back to the only possible explanation: gremlins. See also: demons.

I am now in my they just dont make things like they used to era. All I know is that if the warranty doesnt cover obvious drive train issues, I just know they are going to wiggle out of demon and gremlin repair coverage too.
NORTH ROYALTON, Ohio  The Ashtabula County Farm Bureau annual meeting will be Sept. 18 at the Expo Building at the Ashtabula County Fairgrounds, 225 N. Elm St. in Jefferson, Ohio.

The event will begin with a social hour at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. and the business meeting immediately after.

There will be proposed code changes regarding trustee qualifications. The guest speaker this year will be Ashtabula County Auditor David Thomas, who will give an update on CAUV soil value changes to croplands and woodlands.

Dinner will be catered by Go Big Catering and will feature local meats and produce. Tickets are $25 per member and $30 per non-member. Reservations are required by Sept. 14. Call 440-426-2195 to pay by credit card or register online at https://bit.ly/AshtabulaAM23.
The future of farming is here  and it isnt flying tractors but self-driving ones. Precision agricultures latest push is autonomous tractors, self-driving tractors that can be programmed or remotely controlled to perform certain duties. Pitched as more efficient and more farm-productive, autonomous tractors are just beginning to appear on the market.

The shift to automation will be gradual, said Scott Shearer, professor and chair of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering department at Ohio State University but is coming nevertheless.

Its going to be one of those things where things are going to start out slow, its going to pick up speed, Shearer told Farm and Dairy. Theres gonna be farmers that figure out how to use the technology to make money. And I think, ultimately, the marketplace determines how quickly automation is adopted.

What are autonomous tractors?

The idea of driverless tractors sounds new but has actually been around since the 40s when farmer Frank W. Andrew built one by looping a cable from the tractors front steering arm to a barrel in the field.

Of course, since then, driverless tractors have evolved to contain better technology, including GPS-enabled cameras, radars and lighters for navigation and the ability to process and track their own position and speed to avoid obstacles on the ground using artificial intelligence, or AI.

In fact, Shearer credits the most recent innovations in autonomous tractors to John Deeres creation of the AI-driven vision system for collision avoidance.

John Deere released its first fully autonomous tractor back in 2022 at the Consumer Electronic Show. The company combined the John Deere 8R tractor with a TruSet-enabled chisel plow, GPS and AI. Using AI, the tractor has the ability to navigate on its own and stop when obstacles appear in its path.

At the 2023 Consumers Electronic Show, John Deere debuted another autonomous tractor, taking AI tractors a step further. The machine, called the See and Spray Ultimate, uses cameras and AI technology to detect which crops are in the field and determines the appropriate course of action; whether it be spraying it with an herbicide or laying fertilizer.

The John Deere fully autonomous tractors have yet to appear on the marketplace, however, Sabanto, an agricultural technology company, has already released an autonomy kit for Kubota M5 tractors, allowing operators to turn their already existing tractors into autonomous ones. The Sabanto autonomy kit will be at the upcoming Farm Science Review, Shearer said.

What are the benefits?

There are three ways autonomous tractors will benefit farmers in the long run, according to Shearer, who has focused some of his academic research on autonomous vehicle production systems.

First, as the weather becomes more unpredictable, it will allow farmers to spend less time in the tractor and more time completing tasks that a machine cant, he said.

As we move forward, if that tractor were able to operate 24/7, we get better asset utilization, Shearer said.

It will also help with the skilled labor shortage in the farming industry, specifically during busy times of the year like springtime field operations and fall harvest. During those peak work times, if farmers were able to relegate part of those tasks to autonomous tractors, thats a bit of a game changer, Shearer said.

Lastly, with the move toward autonomous tractors, tractors in general will become smaller and more affordable with no need for a human operator.

Since a human operator is still required in a tractor, horsepower and size have been increasing over the years as space and luxury become more of a priority for farmers. Shearer said the continued trend toward bigger tractors may be bad for soil health and compaction.

Taking the human out of the tractor seat reduces the number of amenities needed in a tractor like leather seats and air conditioning. As a result, once autonomous tractors become more available on the market, they will be less expensive.

There are potential downsides to this technology, specifically when it comes to the operator being more removed. These problems can occur when unforeseeable circumstances happen in the field when this technology is programmed to make decisions with only select information.

Shearer gives an example of the AI-driven vision system for collision avoidance in autonomous tractors that is supposed to detect obstacles in the field and stop to prevent a collision. He says the tractor may not recognize unfamiliar objects that can fall as a result of severe weather like billboards or trees. Similar to autonomous cars, unpredictable or severe weather will also be an obstacle in which autonomous tractors will not be able to function.

Whats next?

At the moment, tractors have reached level three autonomy, meaning the operator has been removed from the tractor but still needs to monitor it from another location, Shearer said once autonomy reaches levels four and five, the tractor will be able to make more of its own decisions without human assistance.

Shearer is working on a project with students from Ohio State University to test autonomous tractors. The project combines the adoption of crop-growing solar fields with autonomous tractors.

The project will explore numerous opportunities for the future of solar farming such as grazing animals underneath solar panels and growing and harvesting crops like hay, grain, soybeans, wheat and short stature corn.

Because of the narrow spacing between solar panels, small equipment needs to be used  which is where the autonomous tractor comes in. Using a Sabanto automation package on a Kubota M5 tractor, the tractor will perform multiple duties including spraying, fertilizing, tillage, seeding, mowing, raking and bailing operations.

Shearer said the location where the project will take place is currently under construction but will be finished within the next month, which is when they will begin seeding hay. It will be a multi-year project and are expected to begin harvesting hay and grazing animals in the 2024 growing season.

To learn more

Interested parties can attend the Farm Science Review, in London, Ohio, between Sept. 19 to 21. There will be daily demonstrations at 12:30 p.m. showcasing Ag Innovation Demos like autonomous tractors and irrigation systems at the Trotter Field Demo Area. There will also be a Tailgate Talk at 9 a.m. Sept. 20 about Precision Ag and Autonomous with John Fulton, of the Agronomic Crops Team, at 1240 Friday Avenue.

(Reporter Liz Partsch can be reached at epartsch@farmanddairy.com.)
EAST LIVERPOOL, Ohio  Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center will host three programs on Sept. 16 and 17 as part of the centers Fall Festival.

Leaf painting for kids and adults will be from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Sept. 16 under the pavilion. Painting supplies will be provided, but participants are asked to bring some of their own leaves.

Beaver Creek Park naturalist Evan Crawford will talk about crows and ravens unique social structure and their important role in the ecosystem Sept. 17. The event will take place from 12 to 1 p.m. Afterwards, visitors can tour the wildlife center to see the crows on display.

Joe Dorian of the Ohio School of Falconry will be in the front yard of the center from 2 to 3 p.m. Sept. 17 to introduce visitors to raptors. Nine visitors will be selected to have a bird fly on their arm. To be selected, participants must be 10 years or older.

The center will have extended hours Sept. 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be food present and activities for kids, including a fossil hunt with volunteers from the Ohio Oil and Gas Energy Education Program.

For more information, or to request an appointment, visit beavercreekwildlife.org.
MASSILLON, Ohio  The Massillon Museum will exhibit John W. Carlson: Set the Twilight Reeling in its Aultman Health Foundation Gallery from Sept. 16 to Nov. 12. This exhibition and the accompanying catalog will introduce the complexity of Carlsons artistic life (19542020), through videos sketchbooks and items from his studio.

The exhibitions aim is to create an emotional experience and atmosphere for visitors to connect with. Through his art, Carlson communicated using a language of line, colors, space, form, contrast and gesture to express narrative, and above all, feelings.

Carlsons paintings and drawings were first featured in the Massillon Museum in 2017 when he had a solo Studio M exhibition.

Massillon Museum will also host bluesman Austin Walkin Cane for its Rhythms concert Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m. in tribute to Carlsons passion for blues. Tickets are $12 or $10 for MassMu members and are available at MassMu.org/Tickets or by calling 330-833-4061.

A MassMusings podcast related to the Set the Twilight Reeling exhibition will be posted Oct. 31 at noon. The exhibition catalog will be available in the museum shop.

The artists reception for the Artists Group of Ten exhibition, Ten Point Perspective, will be held concurrently with the Carlson reception Sept. 16. from 5:30 to 8 p.m. It is free and open to everyone with no reservations required.

Exhibitions can be seen during regular museum hours, Tuesday through Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 2 to 5 p.m.

Massillon Museum is located at 121 Lincoln Way East in downtown Massillon. A visit is always free and everyone is welcome. Free parking is available on adjacent streets and in nearby city lots. For more information, call 330-833-4061 or visit massillonmuseum.org.
COLUMBUS  The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is calling on teachers and students in northern Ohio to join a program that gives them a first-hand look at conservation and ecology. The H2Ohio Students Take Action Program focuses on wetland restoration projects implemented under Gov. Mike DeWines H2Ohio initiative.

The program provides middle and high school teachers and their students with real-world learning opportunities, access to wetland sites, career exploration opportunities and more. Projects in this program urge students to take action with their ideas and use what they learn to positively impact their watershed.

With the help of ODNR naturalists, students will take trips to Ohios wetlands, lakes, rivers and streams to learn about ecology, watersheds, natural history and human impacts on the water.

Education experiences include the following: water quality tests/investigation; stream quality monitoring; invasive species removal; seed collection; rear and plant native wetland plants; raise and release fish; wildlife survey; and river, stream or beach clean-up.

Teachers can sign up for the program online or learn more by visiting ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/water-resources/h2ohio/sta/sta.
COLUMBUS  The Ohio Farm Bureau recently released an updated 40-page Ohio Landowner Toolkit Owning to help landowners better navigate the trials and tribulations that come with owning property.

The toolkit contains information prepared by Ohio Farm Bureaus legal team that helps answer questions unique to property owners on topics such as agricultural easements, property rights, oil and gas, zoning, open burning and more. The toolkit also assists members in navigating eminent domain, boundary disputes, trees and property rights, fence lines, open burning and Ohio Farm Bureaus $5,000 Reward Property Protection Program.

As many of the issues addressed in the Landowner Toolkit are ever-changing and evolving, recent updates have also been made to include more information on trespassing and landowner liability, drainage and water and Ohios Agricultural Districts and Agricultural Security Areas. The Ohio Farm Bureau Landowner Toolkit is available exclusively for members. Find out more by visiting ohiofarmbureau.org/ohio-landowner-toolkit.
LINCOLN, Neb.  Two University of NebraskaLincoln scientists have received a $627,000 federal grant to study a viral disease posing a significant threat to the swine industry worldwide.

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus is widespread, causing reproductive failure in sows and major respiratory illness in pigs of all ages. In addition, the virus modulates the pigs immune system, making the animal more susceptible to other infectious diseases. The costs to the U.S. swine sector from PRRSV annually total an estimated $1.1 billion.

Hiep Vu, associate professor of animal science, is the co-director of the research project, funded by a three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The other co-director is Sarah Sillman, assistant professor with Nebraskas School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences and the Nebraska Veterinary Diagnostic Center.

The project will examine how PRRSV infects swine macrophages, the immune cells that recognize, engulf and destroy harmful intruders, including viruses and bacteria.

Viruses can only make copies of themselves when they sneak into a living cell.

As long as we can prevent viruses from entering a cell, we can prevent viral infection, Vu said.

Figuring out which cells the virus can attack and how it gets inside them strengthens scientists ability to create vaccines and intervention strategies to stop the viruss spread and harmful effects.

PRRSV is picky, infecting only a few specific cell types, including swine macrophages and the monkey cell line MARC-145.

Vu recently discovered a PRRSV variant that nearly lost the ability to infect swine macrophages while still being able to infect MARC-145 cells effectively. This PRRSV variant has just one tiny change in its genome compared with the other PRRSV that infects macrophages.

I will compare those two viruses to find out why one infects the swine macrophage and the other does not, Vu said.

Such knowledge, Vu said, can be critical for the development of a safe and efficacious PRRSV vaccine. Additionally, this knowledge will provide novel insights for generating PRRSV-resistant pigs, either through natural selection or genome editing.

The project illustrates the frequent multidisciplinary collaboration among Husker faculty in studying animal diseases. For this project, Sillmans expertise in veterinary pathology complements Vus work in molecular virology, enabling a detailed study of PRRSV characteristics and its manifestations of disease in pigs.

Most of my studies involve collaboration with a veterinary pathologist at the Diagnostic Center, Vu said. For almost all of my publications, I have at least one collaborator from the Diagnostic Center.

This research was supported by the intramural research program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
CHARLESTON, W.Va  Gov. Jim Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice announced on Aug. 28 the next seven therapy dogs that will be placed in schools across West Virginia as a part of the First Ladys Friends With Paws initiative.

The addition of the seven dogs to Friends With Paws will bring the total number of therapy dogs placed in West Virginia through the program to nineteen.

First announced in March 2022, the Friends With Paws program places certified therapy dogs in various Communities in Schools (CIS) schools across the state, providing companionship and comfort for students in need of a boost. The program is a partnership between the Governors Office, West Virginia Communities In Schools Nonprofit and the West Virginia Department of Education.

Therapy dogs are placed in schools within CIS counties where students are disproportionately affected by poverty, substance misuse, or other at-risk situations, and are in the greatest need of a support animal. The dogs serve as a healthy and friendly outlet for these students to address trauma and other social-emotional issues.

The seven new therapy dogs being placed this fall are:

 Ruby, a female golden retriever, will be placed at Greenbrier East High School in Greenbrier County.

 Malfoy, a male yellow Labrador, will be placed at Chapmanville Intermediate School in Logan County.

 Skye, a female brown labradoodle, will be placed at Berkeley Springs High School in Morgan County.

 Tora, a female yellow Labrador, will be placed at Elkins High School in Randolph County.

 Penny, a female yellow Labrador, will be placed at Pendleton County Middle-High School in Pendleton County.

 Meadow, a female yellow Labrador, will be placed at Washington Lands Elementary School in Marshall County.

 Nutter is a male chocolate Labrador. His school placement will be announced at a later date.

More information about Friends With Paws can be found in Communities In Schools: Friends With Paws, a documentary produced by West Virginia Public Broadcasting: youtube.com/watch?v=sZ-6gV1-vL4.
MEADVILLE, Pa.  The Crawford County Conservation District is hosting a tree identification workshop Sept. 19 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Woodcock Creek Nature Center, 21742 German Road.

Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry Service Forester Mark Lewis will introduce participants to many tree species and explain why leaves turn different colors in the fall.

Participants are asked to meet in the side yard of the nature center and wear comfortable walking shoes. All ages are welcome to attend.
NORTH BLOOMFIELD, Ohio  North Bloomfield Historical Society will host a western square dance on Sept. 16. from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the town hall, at the intersection of state Route 45 and state Route 87.

Refreshments will be served. Admission is $7 per person. For more information call 330-506-0272.
ZOAR, Ohio The 2023 Zoar Free Speaker Series continues with an informational discussion of the history of Ohio barn construction and its crucial role in agriculture.

Ohio barns expert Tom OGrady will give this free presentation Oct. 7 at 11 a.m. at the Zoar School House. OGrady has researched Ohios natural and cultural geography and settlement for 25 years, with a focus on barns, mound builders and Ohio canals.

No reservations are required. Free parking is available near the School House. Visit www.historiczoarvillage.com or call 330-874-3011 for more information.
Many SWCD districts and environmental entities in the state are familiar with the H2Ohio initiative thats been taking place across the Western Lake Erie watershed and in the

Grand Lake St. Marys watershed. The goal of this project is to address the continual battle of excessive phosphorus and other nutrients being discharged into our rivers and streams that ultimately flow into our Great Lake.

These excessive nutrient loads from sediment runoff and nutrient applications from fields are a major contributor to the harmful algae blooms throughout the Western Lake Erie Basin and Grand Lake St. Marys, or GLSM. As the nutrients that are being released into the water enable algae to grow and thrive, it robs levels of dissolved oxygen in the water, resulting in not enough oxygen for the fish and other aquatic life to persist.

While the main focus of this program originated in the GLSM region in western Ohio to reduce phosphorus levels, create wetland habitat, and provide clean drinking water for people in the region, those efforts are being noticed not just statewide, but nationally. Over the past three years, H2Ohio contributed to over 14,000 acres of wetland ecosystem restoration, and more than 110,000 acres of watershed being filtered out by wetland projects. These efforts are far from over, though.

Gov. DeWine has plans the extend the H2Ohio funding opportunities across all of Ohio to help producers and landowners implement conservation practices such as restoring and building wetlands, cover crops, creating nutrient management plans, and assisting landowners on the wise use of their resources and being good stewards of their land.

With the Grand Lake St. Marys watershed, Western Lake Erie Basin and adjacent areas already pretty familiar with the H2Ohio program and most of its ins and outs, thanks to the hard work of local soil and water districts, much of the state could still be unaware of the program and the benefits that are brought to the table from it. Luckily, producers have a multitude of resources they can reach out to for assistance with this program.

The Ohio Department of Agriculture would most likely be the leading source for information if you have any specific questions regarding the H2Ohio program. Each area within the state has its own watershed coordinator to answer questions and help producers and landowners make the proper decisions about the program.

Another resource that land owners and producers can use is their local soil and water conservation district. Soil and water districts are a great tool to use for not just producers with questions regarding H2Ohio programming, but also for the farmer or landowner that is seeking technical assistance with resource concerns on their land.

When working within the H2Ohio program, the first step of enrollment is to have and implement a Voluntary Nutrient Management Plan or VNMP for your operation. This plan is essentially designed to help producers implement only the nutrients that a field needs to have a successful yet ecologically beneficial yield and cropping season. Also, with the cost of fertilizers now, Im sure most producers would be willing to put efforts into the field only where needed. Soil and water offices can either write a VNMP for a producer to get underway with the program or point them in the right direction. They provide resources that farmers can use to get the ball rolling.

SWCD assistance doesnt stop there. Local district staff could come out to your farm to have a one-on-one conversation to talk about anything from plant diseases in your crops to help design a grassed waterway or implement EQIP projects. Through environmental assessments, we could discuss some projects and opportunities available through the H2Ohio program.

For more information about H2Ohio program opportunities in your area, reach out to your Ohio Department of Agriculture Area Specialist or your local soil and water office.
British Wool will now accept Isle of Man farmers to the collective marketing scheme after being awarded the contract to handle the wool produced on the island.

The co-operative, based in Bradford, said it was 'delighted' that the Isle of Man government had awarded British Wool the contract.

Sheep farmers on the island will have access to British Wools grading system, shearing training and auctions to help them maximise wool value.

Approximately 120 tonnes of wool are produced on the Isle of Man each year.

But over the last couple of years, Manx farmers have experienced challenges in selling their wool and in achieving a fair price.

Andrew Hogley, CEO of British Wool, said the partnership would provide benefits to farmers both on the island and in the UK.

"We are aware of the challenges they have faced in recent years and look forward to welcoming the Manx farmers to the collective marketing scheme," he said.

"UK farmers will also benefit by putting more wool through our infrastructure. The more wool British Wool can handle the more cost effective and efficient an organisation we become thus helping us to maximise returns for our members.

Clare Barber, Isle of Man's farming minister, said the development was 'really positive' for Manx farmers and the 120 tonnes of wool shorn on the island each year.

"We are delighted to work with British Wool to ensure our farmers have an efficient route to market and receive a fair price for their hard work.

"I hope this will help rectify some of the frustrations and concerns that some farmers have experienced in recent years.

The Manx National Farmers Union (NFU) challenged the Isle of man government over the failure of the 2021 wool contract, causing loss to farms.

Sarah Comish, general secretary from Manx NFU said: "It is good news that our Minister agreed to address the situation, and that British Wool has now accepted the contract to manage wool control on the Isle of Man.

"We hope that their association with the Isle of Man will bring better recognition for the value of Manx wool as a high quality, environmentally sustainable product.

"The addition of training opportunities is an investment in skills that are needed to ensure futureproofing our industry.

A communication has been distributed this week to Manx sheep farmers to explain where and when to deliver their wool and how to register their details with British Wool.
Growers for assurance scheme Scottish Quality Crops are benefiting from streamlined auditing after the appointment of new certification body Food Integrity Assurance.

FIA is now able to certify for four assurance schemes  Scottish Quality Crops, Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), Wildlife Estates Scotland and most recently, LEAF.

The body was set up by the cooperative support hub SAOS in 2022 to offer devolved, Scotland-centric auditing.

Reducing unnecessary burden on SQC members has been a key mission for managing director, Teresa Dougall, since she assumed the role 18 months ago.

She said: "We are aware that with 50% of SQC members also QMS Cattle & Sheep members, and some oat growers now required to meet LEAF standards, there is often duplication across schemes, and a question we have heard repeatedly from our members is how can we reduce this?

Through the appointment of FIA last year we have been able to work alongside them to widen the scope of services available.

"Importantly, FIA shares a similar cooperative ethos, they have a regional understanding of farming in Scotland and they brought with them a vast range of experience and knowledge in assurance and certification."

In the last 12 months, FIA has recruited 20 full-time staff, qualified across four certification schemes, and has undertaken 13,500 audits.

From this month, the SQC scheme will move to a product certification model meaning that audits will be carried out over 12 rather than 10 months to improve capacity.

As a farmer who produces cereals, beef and potatoes, Dave Bell is SQC, QMS and LEAF assured. He says: Its great to consolidate these audits, theres so much overlap in information thats required.

"The efficiencies of multiple audits being done by one auditor during one visit, saves time for the farmer, the auditor and the certification body itself.

Mr Bell adds that, if farmers are well prepared, its possible to get three audits done, and pass them, in one morning, as he was able to do last year.

The reason that we farmers dont like audits, is that we dont like doing the paperwork! But we must just get on with it, its such a necessity.

"As farmers, food safety, traceability and crop safety certification are vital, and these schemes have allowed us to forget about food scares.

"Also, to know that to supply the best market opportunities, assurance is fundamental and all those I sell to require me to have assurance and certification.

FIAs general manager, Stephen Sanderson, a former dairy farmer with experience in other certification schemes, explains the cross-scheme process.

The auditor still needs to do a separate report for each of the assurance schemes, which can take time.

"The more complex the farm, and the paperwork, multiple audits could be a full day or extend into two, but that suits most farmers better than it being a two-hour audit one day, three hours another and another six months later."

In line with this, he sees a mindset shift associated with the younger generation being involved with farm businesses.

The younger generation see the use of data as an opportunity, as part of progressing their farms and using technology to drive more efficiency," he says.

"We need to do everything we can to harness this in the auditing process and to have 365-day information literally in the palm of our hands.

Stephen is working on creating a central database of farmers information, to which FIA can grant authorised access to each member and approved organisations for verification or certification purposes.

This would allow for more outcome-based certification, he says, where payments are linked to what farmers are doing to drive efficiency, reduce emissions or sequester carbon, rather than undertaking prescriptive actions to meet certain criteria.

Stephen explains: If you're managing your business in an efficient manner, you gain the benefits of the efficiency and the marketing opportunities that result from embracing those standards.

"But second to that, you're improving your carbon footprint and maximising your carbon credit. There are potentially lucrative market opportunities from the outcome-based approach for businesses like these.
The government has confirmed that a small abattoir fund - worth 4 million - will open by the end of this year to help the struggling sector.

Opportunities will also be identified to remove 'unnecessary burdens' for small abattoirs to make it easier for them to operate.

According to the government, which announced the details on Back British Farming Day, this would help farmers reach local and international markets.

There has been a huge decline in small abattoirs in recent years, with the most recent estimates showing only 49 remain in England, Wales and Scotland.

During the period between 2019 and 2021, the sector saw the closure of 14 small, family-run abattoirs.

If closures continued at the current rate, there will be none left open by 2030, according to campaigners at the Sustainable Food Trust.

Fears have also been raised over the negative impact of these closures on the rural economy.

The government said its 4m small abattoir fund  opening by the end of 2023  will help "improve productivity, enhance animal health and welfare, and encourage investment in new technologies".

"The support for small abattoirs is the latest move by government to increase fairness in the supply chain," a Defra spokesperson said.

"New regulations for the dairy and pig sectors will be introduced next year, and consultations on eggs and horticulture supply chains launch later this year."

The Sustainable Food Trust said the funding was 'welcome news' as it would be "integral to the future of local, sustainable and high welfare farming".

The group added that other critical issues, around regulation and inspection in particular, should be looked at and tackled in the coming months.

Megan Perry, head of policy and campaigns said: We are grateful to the ministers and government officials who have shown a willingness to listen to those from industry and understand the important role that abattoirs play.

"Funding will be vital to help the small abattoirs modernise and thrive. Their services are the cornerstone of sustainable, local meat supply chains.

In June, a small abattoir based in Wigton in Cumbria closed its doors for good in a move which rocked the local farming sector.

Black Brow abattoir, which was seen as a lifeline for remote farmers in Cumbria, shut down for business on 7 July 2023 after 20 years.
The recent September sunshine has fuelled hope of an increase in demand for beef going into the autumn.

Hybu Cig Cymru-Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) said the hot weather could further boost prices after a 'disappointing' summer.

According to its analysis, prices in recent days have picked up again as back-to-school demand, along with the weather, provided some 'much-needed additional impetus'.

Going into September, the average deadweight price for steers in England and Wales had recorded three consecutive weeks of price increases to stand at 460.5p/kg.

This average is some 29p higher than year-earlier levels and almost 83p higher than the longer term 5-year average, HCC's analysis shows.

Glesni Phillips, HCC intelligence insight executive, explained more: Looking back through the year so far, deadweight prime cattle prices were also very strong during the first few months of 2023.

"But by late spring, driven largely by the cost of living crisis, the average was showing small week-on-week declines.

Then the consistently cool summer weather impacted on demand for traditional BBQ cuts, she said.

Data from Kantar suggests steaks and mince have still performed well but the total volume of beef sold at British retail was down 2% on the year and some 20% below levels seen for this period in both 2021 and 2020.

Ms Phillips said: However, 2023 sales volumes are higher than recorded pre-Covid (in 2019), which is a real positive.

"It must be remembered that 2021 and 2020 figures included periods of lockdown during covid, when the foodservice sector was closed and substantially increased sales volumes were experienced by the whole grocery sector at retail, said Glesni.

Data from BCMS on numbers of prime cattle on the ground suggest supply should be plentiful on the market during the remainder of this year but might be tight in the future.

According to figures from Defra, UK slaughterings for the first half of the year are slightly ahead (1%) of year-earlier levels.

However, July recorded low throughput figures, down 4% on June at 166,000 head, perhaps as a result of lower farmgate prices influencing on-farm decisions.

At the time of writing, the current UK average for steers stood some 10% higher than both the EU and Ireland average, which would be weighing on the competitiveness of the product on the global market.

Prices in both Ireland and the EU have followed a similar trend to that experienced in the UK since around mid-May.

Ireland remains the dominant market for both UK beef exports and imports, however it is reported that the supply of Irish cattle is tight at the moment which is impacting beef import levels, but it is uncertain how long this will last.
More than 21,000 people have signed an open letter calling for supermarkets to back farmers by adding buy British tabs to their websites.

The filter would direct shoppers to homegrown food as part of efforts to help boost the economy and cut the UKs carbon footprint.

Following calls from the NFU, the public and most recently 110 MPs, the Defra Secretary has also announced support for industry-led action to signpost customers to buy British when they shop online.

The call to provide shoppers with easier means of identifying British produce is part of a campaign being spearheaded by the NFU, which is accepting signatories online.

Responding to the new push, the union's president Minette Batters said: We have been asking retailers to commit to signposting British produce for a number of years.

We know from our own independent survey that 86% of the public want to buy more British food, but it is often tricky to determine what products are produced in the UK.

Open letter signatories include former Defra Secretary Theresa Villiers, chair of the Environmental Audit Committee Philip Dunne MP, Climate Minister Graham Stuart and members of the Commons EFRA Committee.

The letter was signed by representatives from all the main political parties in England and Wales.

British farmers work hard all year round to ensure our nations food security, are crucial in supporting strong local economies and have been instrumental in preserving and protecting our environment, the letter said.

It added that the small change would give customers greater autonomy over their food choices and could boost seasonal eating.

Outside of their overall sourcing policies, most major supermarkets do not yet have a buy British function across their food ranges.

However, Sainsburys and Waitrose websites have sections for seasonal British produce on their fruit and vegetables page.

Sainsburys also allows shoppers to select British meat and fish at a click, while Ocado has a Best of British page.
Hundreds of farmers have signed a petition demanding more support for upland areas as many have been 'left behind' from land management schemes.

Cumbrian farmer James Robinson has penned an angry open letter to Defra, accusing policymakers of 'overlooking' upland areas and leaving farmers without adequate financial backing to deliver nature outcomes.

Mr Robinson said Defra's new policy was 'not helping' upland farmers, with far fewer of them being able to access higher tier agreements than previous years.

Mr Robinson, who is vice chair of the England steering group at the Nature Friendly Farming Network (NFFN), said successful applications to these schemes had plunged by 80% in the space of a decade.

He has now taken the step of publicly criticising politicians for the way farms are being supported and is demanding a 'comprehensive financial package' that will enable farmers to transition.

Over 400 farmers have signed his petition within the first 24 hours of it going online.

Mr Robinson said: The uplands are being overlooked despite the governments bold claims to offer more support for nature-friendly farming. In areas like mine up here in Cumbria, many have been left behind.

"Many farmers I know who have applied to these schemes this year with an appetite to do more for nature on their land have been denied access, and there are loads more who havent even bothered applying because they were expecting to be rejected.

Enough is enough. We need schemes that will actually support farmers, help finance a farming transition and reward ambitious nature-friendly land management.

Mr Robinson believes upland and marginal farms can potentially make a difference when it comes to boosting nature, combatting biodiversity loss and tackling climate change.

In his letter, he told Defra Secretary Therese Coffey that the higher tier schemes offered a decent level of payments coupled with flexibility and advice.

Together, he said this was crucial in securing the highest quality environmental outcomes from our land.

But he said farmers who missed out on payments were bitterly disappointed, a situation he describes as unacceptable as it risked putting farms in upland areas and on marginal land out of business.

The open letter demands Defra to enable increased access to land management schemes such as the Higher Tier of Countryside Stewardship and Landscape Recovery.

Defra must allow a minimum of 3,000 agreements to be created per year, it states, while putting in place more support for farmers so they can deliver the best outcomes for their land.
Experts are pushing for more investment now to ensure farmers and other water users are in the best position ahead of future droughts.

The National Drought Group, in its most recent meeting on Wednesday (13 September), heard that proactive steps are 'needed now' while water supply is stable.

The government, conservation experts, water firms and farm leaders discussed how to best ensure the needs of the public, farmers, industry and nature.

National Drought Group members heard that the wet summer means water resources are in a 'generally healthy position' as autumn nears.

Recent hot weather has meant river flows have fallen, while some water companies have reported increases in demand for water.

Despite the wetter weather over the summer, the meeting heard that sectors continue to prepare for all weather eventualities, both in the short and longer term.

Representatives at the meeting emphasised the need for planning for all droughts, including severe droughts.

The changeable weather already experienced this year continues - with a hot and dry late May and June, and wet weather throughout July and August.

Despite the recent hot start to September, most rivers, reservoirs and groundwater are at levels expected for this time of year.

The exceptions are Cornwall, Devon and north Norfolk, which remain in drought.

Water Minister Rebecca Pow said: We must take every opportunity to ensure we get ahead of potential hot, dry weather, particularly now as we head into the cooler months.

"We are funding more on-farm reservoirs and better irrigation equipment for farmers, we have secured significant investment to increase our water resilience, and we are ensuring key water supply infrastructure, such as reservoirs, can be built more quickly."
Kate Winslet says she started out as the fat kid with the wrong f****** shoes on.

Kate Winslet says she started out as the fat kid with the wrong f****** shoes on

The Titanic actress, 47, is now worth $65 million and won the best actress Oscar in 2009 for her role in The Reader, but says she spent years being targeted over her body shape before she made it big.

She told Vogue about her journey after feeling like the fat kid at the back (of the class) with the wrong f****** shoes on: I was consistently told I was the wrong shape. I was consistently told I would have to settle for less.

When asked why she didnt give up her on her acting dreams, Kate declared: Cause I wasnt going to take that s*** from anyone.

Kate is also now happily settled with three children  Mia, 22, who she had with her filmmaker first husband Jim Threapleton, 50, as well as her son Joe, 19, who she had with director Sam Mendes, 58, and her boy Bear, nine, who she had with her husband Edward Abel Smith, 45, who she met days before a terrifying house fire on Sir Richard Bransons Necker Island in 2011.

Her breakthrough role came when she was cast aged 17 by Peter Jackson in Heavenly Creatures, a dark tale based on the true story of two girls who killed a woman in 1950s New Zealand.

Three years later she became a global star thanks to landing the role in James Camerons Titanic.

Her tough years are maybe why she hasnt read one of her reviews since she was 21.

She also shuns social media and has kept her children away from it, with her son Bear told he is not allowed an iPhone.

Kate added: But Im not in any way smug about it. I do see how its a very difficult negotiation for parents.

She also said she loves the simple pleasures in life away from showbiz, including doing the school drop-off and pickup, going to Waitrose and cooking.

Kate added: Just being able to watch the telly  lovely, with a packet of crisps. F****** brilliant.
Sean Penn has fumed Will Smith didnt go to jail for his Oscars assault on Chris Rock  like he did for attacking a movie extra.

Sean Penn has fumed Will Smith didnt go to jail for his Oscars assault on Chris Rock  like he did for attacking a movie extra

The Oscar-winning actor and director, 63, raged over Will, 54, assaulting Chris, 58, at the 2022 Academy Awards while referencing how he was imprisoned for a similar incident, when he punched and spat on an extra who starred with him in the 1988 cop film Colors.

He vented in the new issue of Variety magazine: I dont know Will Smith. I met him once. He seemed very nice when I met him. He was so f****** good in King Richard.

So why the f*** did you just spit on yourself and everybody else with this stupid f****** thing?

Why did I go to f****** jail for what you just did? And youre still sitting there?

Why are you guys standing and applauding his worst moment as a person?

Sean, who won two Academy Awards for best actor  for Mystic River in 2003 and 2008s Milk  also raged about Oscars bosses refusing to let the president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, to speak at the 2022 Oscars where Will smacked Chris, weeks after Ukraine was invaded by Russia.

The actor raged: The Oscars producer thought, Oh, hes not light-hearted enough.

Well, guess what you got instead? Will Smith!

Sean also said Wills attack made him think of having his Oscars trophies smelted down to make bullets for Ukarines war against Russia.

He added: I thought, well, f***, you know? Ill give them to Ukraine. They can be melted down to bullets they can shoot at the Russians.

When he was 26 in 1987, Sean was sentenced to 60 days in county jail after punching and spitting on an extra on the set of Colors, in which he starred as a rookie cop alongside a veteran officer played by Robert Duvall.

Sean has had multiple instances of being charged over altercations, including in 2010 when he was sentenced to three years of probation and 300 hours of community service after attacking a photographer.

Men in Black star Will has apologised to Chris for hitting him and been banned him from attending Oscar events for 10 years.

Will Packer, the producer of the 2022 Oscars, has revealed police were prepared to arrest Will at the event if Chris had wanted to press charges.

He told Good Morning America: They were saying, This is battery  the word they used in that moment.

They said, We will go get him. We are prepared to get him right now, you can press charges. We can arrest him.

They were laying out the options.
Sean Penn says he would have hunted down and slaughtered the terrorists behind 9/11 if he had been US President at the time of the attacks.

The Milk actor, 63, added he would have gone to jail for his actions if hed been in charge of America 22 years ago when hijacked planes were used to strike New Yorks Twin Towers and the Pentagon.

He said in a fiery interview with Variety magazine: Id have let White House counsel know they (Amnesty International) are on vacation. Im not consulting with them. If I have to go to prison, Ill go, but Im going to kill them. Im killing everyone that did this. But only them. And we know where the f*** they are.

Seans most recent project, scheduled for a 18 September release, is a documentary on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky titled Superpower.

The two-time Oscar winner added in the Variety chat he had permanently given away one of his pair of trophies to the Ukraine leader.

He said: I told him to keep it and bring it to Malibu after all this is over and his country is safe.

Sean  who won two Academy Awards for best actor for Mystic River in 2003 and 2008s Milk  also raged about Oscars bosses refusing to let Zelensky speak at the 2022 Oscars where Will Smith, 54, assaulted Chris Rock, 58, weeks after Ukraine was invaded by Russia.

The actor raged: The Oscars producer thought, Oh, hes not light-hearted enough.

Well, guess what you got instead? Will Smith!

Sean also said Wills attack made him think of having his Oscars trophies smelted down to make bullets for Ukraines war against Russia.

He added: I thought, well, f***, you know? Ill give them to Ukraine. They can be melted down to bullets they can shoot at the Russians.

Sean also said he didnt think Wills attack on Chris would have happened if Zelensky had been allowed to speak at the ceremony.

He added: This f****** bulls*** wouldnt have happened with Zelensky.

Will Smith would never have left that chair to be part of stupid violence. It never would have happened.
Vin Diesel has called Paul Walker his brother to eternity on what would have been the late actors 50th birthday.

Vin Diesel has called Paul Walker his brother to eternity on what would have been the late actors 50th birthday

The XXX star, 56, star shared a throwback photo on Instagram on Tuesday (12.09.23) of him with his Fast and Furious castmate smiling at the camera with Pauls arm around Vins neck, in an image taken 10 years ago before Paul was killed aged 40 in November 2013 as a passenger in a speeding car that lost control and smashed into a light pole in California.

Vin said in a lengthy caption alongside the snap, in which he referenced how one of his three children wasnt even born when it was taken: A decade ten long years and yet it feels like yesterday when we were singing happy birthday to you for the big 40!

The world isnt the same brother as a species, one might say we are struggling. But I think of you, and I smile and know everything is going to be alright.

I was going through images to celebrate this sacred day. Memories flashing before me, one better than the next but I couldnt get past this one. Funny, the little angel came into the office, and looked over my shoulder.

Thats such a timeless photo, Dad one that will live on for generations of humanity .

Of course I dont turn around, haha no need for the kid to see his pops worked up eyes. As he leaves he says its why I want to build cars, for him.

He wasnt even born yet. It would be seven months later when you would tell the crew and the Fast production Vins gotta get to New York to receive his son.

You had that ability to refocus everyone including a whole production to the important things in life.

Vin went on about his bond with Paul and how the pair went to help rescue workers in 2010 following the devastating 2010 earthquake in Haiti: For me this picture represents the moment I knew we would be brothers for eternity. January 2010, the night before you and I went to Haiti the passion and joy you had to simply help people.

You said first responders shouldnt have to wait for anyone and that you wanted to dedicate your life to that.

First responders that was your true self, and you were sharing it with me, your brother. Haha. To this day, I imagine if you looked up first responder in the dictionary, there would be a picture of you. Haha.

So as much as I would like to think we would be cutting cake and singing happy birthday for the big 50!

We probably wouldnt cause you would be in Maui or Morocco, or anywhere in this planet where people were in need.

Vin signed off: I miss you I love you, and I will continue to honour the beautiful soul you are. Happy Birthday .

In 2015, the actor revealed he and his longtime partner, Paloma Jimenez, had named their third child Pauline after Paul, who he said he was thinking about in the delivery room when his daughter was born.

He told the Today show: Theres no other person that Im thinking about as Im cutting this umbilical cord.

I knew he was there, and I felt like, you know, a way to keep his memory a part of my memory, a part of my world.
The executive committee of Bangladeshs National Economic Council (NEC) yesterday approved a Tk 4,282.76-crore project to expand and modernise facilities at Mongla Port in Bagerhat.

The Mongla Port Authority under the shipping ministry will implement the project by June 2027 with a Tk 3,782.36 crore loan from China on a government-to-government basis.

The project aims at ensuring modern port facilities at Mongla, enhancing its container handling capacity, constructing a container terminal and ensuring hazardous cargo handling facilities.

Bangladesh's National Economic Council has approved a Tk 4,282.76-crore project to expand and modernise facilities at Mongla Port in Bagerhat. The Mongla Port Authority will implement the project by June 2027 with a Tk 3,782.36 crore loan from China. The project aims at enhancing container handling capacity and ensuring hazardous cargo handling facilities.

The approval followed a meeting of the committee held with its chairperson Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The project was part of 19 projects that were approved.

Of the 19, 13 are new projects, while seven are revised ones.

The other projects approved in the meeting include those related to widening district highways in Khulna Zone, emergency reconstruction of roads, bridges and culverts hit during last years floods in Sunamganj and Habiganj road division, and land acquisition for constructing a sewerage treatment plant at Reyerbazar area, according to a news agency.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
Vietnam stands out among countries that attract quality foreign direct investment (FDI) and reap its benefits, according to HSBC. In a report released yesterday, the private bank said greenfield FDI in the country rose by 40 per cent year on year (YoY) in the first eight months this year, with manufacturing alone accounting for 85 per cent of new FDI.

FDI inflows to Vietnam grew by 8.2 per cent YoY to nearly $18.15 billion during the eight-month period, official statistics show.

Vietnam stands out among nations that attract quality foreign direct investment and reap its benefits, HSBC has said. Greenfield FDI there rose by 40 per cent year on year (YoY) in the first eight months this year, with manufacturing accounting for 85 per cent of new FDI. FDI inflows to Vietnam grew by 8.2 per cent YoY to nearly $18.15 billion during the period.

In particular, new FDI into manufacturing year to date has surprisingly exceeded those for the whole year in each of the past three years., HSBC said in its report titled ASEAN Perspectives, domestic media outlets reported.

There were 1,924 licensed projects in the January-August period, with a total registered capital of more than $8.87 billion, up by 69.5 per cent and 39.7 per cent YoY in terms of projects and capital value respectively.

While much of the initial FDI was in the lower value-add textile and footwear space, the country has quickly climbed up the value chain, growing into a key hub for electronics assembly.

The trend offers hopes for the country to witness a strong rebound when the cycle turns.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region attracted a record high of almost 17 per cent of global FDI last year, nearly double from four years ago, the report stated.

This is a clear reflection of ASEAN's strong fundamentals, favourable demographics, and competitive supply chains, it added.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
Sooraj Barjatyas movies are like much-loved wedding videos. You put them on wherever youre feeling low, run them from anywhere you like and they still keep you engaged and lift your spirits up. He mostly shot his films on grand sets, caring more for the ease and order of a closed set than the chaos of an outdoor shoot. But he threw all his self-imposed restrictions out of the window while making Uunchai. The film, which starred Amitabh Bachchan, Boman Irani, Anupam Kher, Danny Denzongpa, Sarika, Neena Gupta and Parineeti Chopra, revolved around a group of 60-plus friends making a trek to the Everest Base Camp. It was marked by memorable performances and was well-liked by the family audience. Excerpts from a tete-a-tete with the talented director, who took on a new challenge and succeeded.



A writer came to me with a story in 2016, and its heading was "Death." When he read the story to me,

I thought that this is what life is. At that time, I was busy writing a story with Salman Khan in mind. But then I realised I should make a film that is more personal to me. I made the film during COVID. I knew that this was not my style of story. I was in search of a good director who could make this film. All of a sudden, I realised that I wanted to make this film myself. There is no chiffon-clad heroine in Uunchai, there is no dance or drama. But I wanted to write a story of courage. And I did not care whether the young crowd would come to see my film or not... I just had to make the film and

I made it.

2020 was the peak period for COVID. I sent my script to Amit ji and narrated the story on Zoom. After hearing my story, he said that he liked what I had narrated about the mental height each of us has, which helps us to cross any hurdle that we come across. It was simply because of Bachchan saab that the film got made. The most amazing thing is that he made the trek to Everest Base Camp at the age of 79.



Bachchan saab is the easiest actor to work with. He respects the writers highly. He will ask about every word that has been written and the reason behind it. He will ask, "What is the emotion behind it? Why did you write this?" Etc..etc

I am so much younger than him, but he followed each and every word I uttered. On the set, he is truly the directors actor.



Outdoor shoots. I wonder how Yash Chopra and J.P. Dutta managed to do outdoor shoots. I do not possess that vision. Visuals inspire some people to become directors. But I've always been inspired by stories. The most difficult challenge was creating a travelogue during COVID. Another challenge was to capture the beauty of Everest on camera. There was constant concern about any mishap involving any of the members. As a result, I dispatched my writer to Everest to determine the number of obstacles we would face there. Then

I went there with a crew of 400, along with a doctor, oxygen cylinders, and medical supplies. We arrived at the Everest Base Camp via the Lukla airport, which is the world's third-most dangerous airport due to its short runway of 1500 metres. Landslides and heavy rains are common features. Every night we used to think that we should return to safety,

but the next morning we'd feel that Mount Everest looked nearer. To shoot a road movie from Delhi to Nepal and then to shoot

in the mountains was not easy at all.

My late father, Rajkumar Barjatya, once made me read an article. An 80 year old lady went to a government official and said, "I had requested to be given some land for opening an Ashram. When will I get it." The officer asked, "But who will run it?" The old lady was angry and said she herself would be running it. The officer felt bad because he had underestimated

her. He touched her feet.

I was highly impresse

with this story. When my father got a new flagship mobile, I assumed he wouldnt be able to use it.

I used to do all his work for him. Today I regret that

kept him from learning how to work the phone.



I used to get angry earlier. I have also scolded the actors on the sets and made them cry. But then I realised that this does not help at all. The directors job is to keep the atmosphere calm and serene. Otherwise, the actor feels insecure, however big he may be. The actors job is more difficult than the directors because they have to work according to the directors vision and yet look natural. If the atmosphere is unpleasant, he cannot emote naturally and convincingly. So

I try my hardest to keep everything normal. I keep an eye on every minute detail. I keep worrying on the inside, but I never let it show on my face.



I have scolded Kareena Kapoor and Abhishek on the set of Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon quite a few times. Both are mischievous and prone to playing pranks. Theyd leave the rehearsal and start chatting. So once, I threw a huge fit just to put the fear of God in them. Why did I have to wake up at four a.m. unnecessarily for the shoot? Both immediately sobered up and stopped their pranks for a while. But they were back to

being their old selves after a day or two.



Have you ever scolded Salman Khan?



There was never a need

for it. I was 20 when

I met Salman for the first time and we have shared

a bond since then. I keep my mouth shut when he gets angry, and he does

the same when I am

angry. We understand

each other perfectly.



You made Salman a superstar, and hence he never refuses to work on your films.



I did not make him a superstar. He was born a superstar. Because he never refuses to work with me, I feel more responsible. When youve grown up together, the bond never breaks, however successful you may be. Our values remain the same.



I feel that all types of films should be made. It depends on the maker. I always want to make graceful

love stories because

I believe in them. Each story has its own charm and audience. When I was making Vivah in 2006,

I was asked as to why

I was making such films when today is the time of live-in relationships? I said then that even in todays time, there had to be some arranged marriages. That is the class that will watch my film. I do not make films for others.

I make films for my own conviction and satisfaction. Analysing a film is important, which I always do when my film flops. The problem is mostly with the base of a story and the structure of a film. I never repeat a mistake. But I never thought of changing my track. I feel that I should make films that I want to make. Even today, some people tell me what they want from my films. When I was making Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, Mahesh Bhatt was

shooting his film nearby.

I went and touched his feet. Unhone puccha ki kya shoot kar rahe ho? Maine kaha, shaadi ka sequence shoot kar raha hoon, joote chhupane wala. Bhatt saab ne kaha, karte raho. Jab tak tum joote chhupate rahoge safal hote rahoge. (Mahesh Bhatt asked me what I was shooting. I said I was shooting the sequence where the grooms shoes were being hidden by the bridal party. He said as long as I kept in touch with our rituals and traditions,

Id never go wrong.



Our first eight or nine films had all failed when I was working on Maine Pyaar Kiya. At that time, making a film with a new director and new actor was a challenge. My father, Rajkumar Barjatya, took a great risk and made a three-and-a half-hour film. It was the costliest film of the time. If the film had flopped, we would have been bankrupt. I still remember those days.





If a film runs well, it is your luck. While I was shooting Uunchai on Everest. I often wondered why I was taking such a great risk. But then

I realised that until I give my best, the public will

not love me.


Scam 2003: The Telgi Story

Bambai Meri Jaan

The Freelancer

Kaala

Choona

HOLLYWOOD

The Wheel of Time Season 2

I Am Groot Season 2

The Changeling

The Morning Show Season 3

Sex Education Season 4

The Continental: From the World of John Wick

Gen V

KOREAN

A Time Called You

Arthdal Chronicles: The Sword of Aramun

The Day

Han River Police

Song of the Bandits

The Worst of Evil

Here are the top trending shows from September 2023:Scam 1992 by Harshad Mehta received positive reviews and instantly turned Pratik Gandhi into a star; andis a great follow-up to the series. Abdul Karim Telgi, a fruit vendor, serves as the central character in the series' interesting storyline. He started making fake stamps and amassed a vast empire in the process. The primary actor is Gagan Dev Riar, who has worked on some of the most notable projects. For those who are unaware, the series is based on Sanjay Singh's book Telgi: Ek Reporter ki Diary. Mukesh Tiwari, Bharat Jadhav, Shaad Randhawa, and Sana Amin Sheikh are the other key cast members. The series has received massive love from audiences in the nation and fans are eagerly waiting for part 2.Sep 1, 2023Thisis being produced by Farhan Akhtar, Ritesh Sidhwani and Kassim Jagmagia. Farhan took to his social media account to share a glimpse and captioned it with, Time to crown the new king of Bambai! The 10-episode television series is an adaptation of S. The story of Hussain Zaidi centres on achieving independence. The story centres on a young boy who must decide whether to join law enforcement like his father or lose himself in the criminal underworld. This fascinating tale is a period piece that depicts the post-independence era and how Mumbai's underworld emerged as the country celebrated its independence. It is one of this month's most anticipated gangster series with an equally impressive ensemble that includes Avinash Tiwary, Kritika Kamra, Amyra Dastur, Kay Kay Menon, and Nivedita Bhattacharya.September 14Mohit Raina, Kashmira Pardeshi, Sushant Singh, John Kokken, Navneet Malik, Gauri Balaji, and Anupam Kher are among the series' noteworthy cast members. Shirish Thorat's novel A Ticket to Syria served as the inspiration for the television series. Avinash Kamath, played by Mohit Raina, is the main character and is portrayed as a former police officer who now works as a mercenary. He embarks on a journey to save Aliya, a young bride who gets caught up in the rising ISIS terrorism in Syria.September 1This month, you should also keep an eye out for Kaala, directed by Bejoy Nambiar. Names like Avinash Tiwary, Taher Shabbir, Hiten Tejwani, Rohan Vinod Mehra, and Nivetha Pethuraj are among the cast members who have joined the project. The series combines delving deeply into the criminal underworld with examinations of how the darkness that permeates human souls operates. The story centres on an Intelligence Bureau agent who becomes entangled in some high-stakes cases involving criminals, fortune, power, vengeance, and action. The rollercoaster trip is as unedited as it gets and provokes in-depth reflection on the nature of our current reality.September 15Choona is a groundbreaking heistwith an all-star ensemble cast that includes, to name a few, Jimmy Shergill, Arshad Warsi, Namit Das, Chandan Roy, and Ashim Gulati. The story centres around a group of individuals who do not agree on anything coming together and discovering a ruthless politician as their common enemy. The story is about how they work together to organise a theft in order to get retribution.September 29Season 2 of The Wheel of Time has been released. A mystical quest to discover the Dragon reborn, a person who is foretold to either save or destroy the world, is the plot of the fantasy television series starring Rosamund Pike, Daniel Henney, Barney Harris, Zoe Robins, Marcus Rutherford, and others.September 1In the spin-off series for the Guardians of the Galaxy, Baby Groot reappears. The 5-minute-long episodes of the show make it the idealSeptember 6The plot of The Changeling centres on a father who, following the birth of his first kid, seeks out his wife. According to the tagline, Based on the acclaimed bestselling book of the same name by Victor LaValle, The Changeling is a fairytale for grown-ups. A, a parenthood fable and a perilous odyssey through a New York City you didnt know existed.September 8The third season of The Morning Show, starring Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, promises more drama as the firm is breached, endangering the hosts' privacy.September 13The popular socially awkward high school show is back with more hilarious and endearing drama. Eric and Otis are planning to enroll in the Cavendish Sixth Form College. Eric is hoping they won't be losers again as Otis worries about opening his clinic. Cavendish, though, ends up being a very different world for them.September 21, a spin-off series, will be a new instalment in the John Wick franchise. Fans will be transported to 1970s New York City by the show featuring Colin Woodell, where the Motel for Assassins first appeared.September 22Fans of the dark superhero franchise apparently thought The Boys wasn't enough. In the most recent spin-off series, new Supers will meet in a school for aspiring superheroes.September 29A Time Called You is based on a well-known time-traveling Taiwanese drama. The protagonist of the television program starring Ahn Hyo-seop and Jeon Yeo-been finds herself back in 1998 after losing her boyfriend when she meets a man who looks like him.September 8The popular fantasy drama Arthdal Chronicles is back with both old and new cast members. Jang Dong-gun and Kim Ok-vin will reprise their roles in the show, which is set eight years after the events of the 2019 series, while Lee Joon-gi and Sin Se-kyung will replace Eun-seon and Saya.September 9The mystery-thriller, which is based on the book The Day of the Kidnapping, follows a poor guy who kidnaps the daughter of a wealthy family in order to pay for his child's operation. The daughter loses her memory and begins to think he is her father, which causes chaos in the situation.September 13Han River Police promises to be a lighthearted action comedy in a month that is packed with serious material. Sung Dong-il, who starred in the Reply series, plays a chief police officer in the program. He has to face up against a violent criminal who is determined to destroy Han River with the help of a small group of misfits.September 14Song of the Bandits, a historical drama set in the 1920s, will be the largest release at the end of the month. Kim Nam-gil, who plays a soldier-turned-bandit, is the show's lead actor. Seohyun from Girls Generations, who is evading law enforcement, joins him.September 22One of the most anticipated shows of the month is The Worst of Evil, which stars Ji Chang-wook and Wi Ha-joon from Squid Game. the unfolding of a risky undercover operation against a brand-new narcotic on the market.September 27
King: Currently at the top of his game and making waves with his music globally is King. With a success story that looks straight out of a Bollywood film, King's journey has been nothing short of inspiring.

Hailed as India's fastest growing artiste today with hits like 'Maan Meri Jaan', 'Tu Aake Dekhle', and others to his credit, King came from a humble family background and disrupted the Indian pop music scene with his craft. Today, the musician gave a special surprise to his millions fans by announcing his India tour.

Titled 'New Life', the India tour will have the artiste perform at different places all around India including cities like Mumbai Bengaluru, Jaipur, Hyderbhad, Guwahati, Kolkata, Goa and many more. Sharing the same on his social media handle, King wrote, " NEW LIFE INDIA TOUR IS HERE It's time for the biggest India tour  We've put our blood & sweat to make this tour an experience of a lifetime. Please come and join us to be a part of this moment. I bet this is going to be an experience of a lifetime "

Opening up about his excitement on the same, King said in an official statement, "

"I'm thrilled about my India tour for the album 'New Life.' The incredible love and support from my fans over the years have been truly overwhelming. I can't wait to see everyone and perform for them. I'm determined to give back the same love and affection I receive every day from my fans. My heart is full, and I'm excited to meet you all my King's Clan."

Speaking of King's album ' New Life ', it has a total of Nine songs, out of which 'Crown' had already garnered a lot of appreciation from the masses. Well, we sure can't wait for this India tour to kick-start.
Surgery for SA Chandrasekhar: It has been reported that actor Vijay has left America in a hurry when he came to know that his father SA Chandrasekhar is undergoing a surgery.

Father Son Bonding

While Vijay starrer Leo is gearing up for release, he is focusing on his next film Thalapathy 68. Vijay had recently gone to America for the test shoot of the upcoming film directed by Venkat Prabhu. Vijay, who stayed there for a few days and conducted a test shoot with Venkat Prabhu, then hastily left for Chennai.

The reason behind actor Vijay's return to Chennai is now out. It has beeb said that actor Vijay's father SA Chandrasekhar suddenly suffered due to heart problem and the doctors said that he needs an immediate surgery. Due to this, he is getting admitted at a private hospital in Chennai.

Thalapathy Vijay's Family PIC Goes Viral

As soon as he came to know about his father's surgery, actor Vijay left USA in a hurry. Vijay has personally met his father after a long time. A family photo of actor Vijay with his father SA Chandrasekhar and mother Shobha Chandrasekhar is now going viral on the internet.

It was widely rumored that actor Vijay had a falling out with his father SA Chandrasekhar, due to which he had stopped talking to him. It is noteworthy that Vijay's father SA Chandrasekhar is currently acting in the serial Kizhakku Vaasal which is being aired on Vijay TV.
Saubhagyavati Bhava 2 Update: Starring Sriti Jha and Karanvir Bohra in the leading roles, Dil Se Di Dua... Saubhagyavati Bhava made its debut on Life OK in 2011 and achieved remarkable success. The series depicted the story of an excessively obsessive and abusive husband, Viraj, and his wife, Janhvi. Both Sriti and Karanvir garnered widespread acclaim for their outstanding performances in the show.

Subsequently, Harshad Chopda joined the cast as the new male lead opposite Sriti Jha in Saubhagyavati Bhava, earning immense appreciation from fans for their onscreen chemistry. Although the beloved series concluded in 2013, it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of viewers as one of the most compelling narratives centered around obsessive love. If you were a fan of Dil Se Di Dua... Saubhagyavati Bhava, the much-awaited premiere of Saubhagyavati Bhava 2 is sure to spark your excitement.

Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai | Harshad-Pranali's Co-Star On Woman CURSING Her For Separating AbhiRa: Aap Konse...

YEH RISHTA KYA KEHLATA HAI ACTRESS JOINS SAUBHAGYAVATI BHAVA 2 CAST

For those who are unaware, the second season is returning on Star Bharat very soon and features Karanvir Bohra once again with Dheeraj Dhoopar and Amandeep Sidhu in the lead roles. Ahead of the show's premiere (slated for later this month), one of Harshad Chopda and Pranali Rathod's Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai co-stars has joined the cast of Saubhagyavati Bhava 2.

Well, we're talking about veteran actress Farida Dadi. Yes, you read that right! She has reportedly bagged a pivotal part in the show. Revealing the same, a source informed IWMBuzz, "Farida will play the role of Amandeep's grandmother in the show."

However, an official announcement from the makers' side is still awaited.

Tiff Between Priyanka Chahar Choudhary & Udaariyaan Co-Star Isha Malviya? Latter BREAKS SILENCE

WHEN AND WHERE TO WATCH SAUBHAGYAVATI BHAVA 2

After a long wait, the second season of Saubhagyavati Bhava is slated to premiere on Star Bharat from September 26 onwards, at 10 pm.

Keep watching this space for more updates!
Man of masses NTR Jr was snapped at Hyderabad airport on Thursday morning with his two kids, Bhargav and Abhay as the trio zoomed off out of the city. They looked perfect together and also twinned in black tees. Here's a closer look at it.

In the video making rounds on social media NTR Jr was spotted standing with his two sons at the airport. While the actor twinned with his younger son Abhay, his older son Bhargav stood beside them with the luggage. However, it is not known where the actor was heading off to with his boys.

NTR Jr. is currently busy shooting for his next, Devara with Koratala Siva. The film marks the reunion of the actor and director duo after their blockbuster film Janatha Garage. Janhvi Kapoor is the female lead and this film marks her debut in South

Meanwhile, Anirudh Ravichander is the music composer for the film. Ratnavelu is the director of photography. A Sreekar Prasad has handled the editing while Sabu Cyril heads the production design team. Hollywood visual effects artist Brad Minnich has also been onboarded for the film.
Ustaad Bhagat Singh Update Photo Credit: Gallery

One of the much-hyped upcoming films of power star Pawan Kalyan is 'Ustaad Bhagat Singh,' under the direction of Harish Shankar. The director and actor are collaborating for the second time for this action entertainer.

Ustaad Bhagat Singh is on the floors currently and the actor-politician is scheduling his programs to ensure that he is available for the film's shooting and his political commitments.

The movie is based on Theri, a superhit Tamil film written and directed by Atlee. After Ustaad Bhagat Singh was announced, fans opposed the idea of remaking it. However, director Harish Shankar let out a clarification that so much has been tweaked from the original to give it a fresh feeling.

According to the available information, there are a few updates about the project that you might want to know as a fan of Pawan Kalyan. Check it out below.

Makers Want To Replace Sakshi Vaidya After Two Back-To-Back Flops

Going by the buzz on social media platforms, filmmakers have been looking to change the film's second female lead.

'Agent' fame Sakshi Vaidya was roped in for the second female lead character in the film. However, owing to two back-to-back flops, filmmakers are on the lookout for another actress.

Major Changes for #UstaadBhagathSingh :



#UstaadBhagatSingh is a remake of #ThalapathyVijay Superhit #Theri & harish has made numerous alterations to the story.



#Sreeleela is the main heroine & #SakshiVaidya has joined as the film's second heroine. However, after the heroine pic.twitter.com/qpEJHdnZxV  PaniPuri (@THEPANIPURI) September 14, 2023

Ustaad Bhagat Singh Cast

The movie stars Pawan Kalyan as Bhagat Singh IPS in the titular role. Sreeleela is the first female lead. In addition, the cast includes Ashutosh Rana, Nawab Shah, BS Avinash, Gauthami, Chammak Chandra, Giri, Naga Mahesh, Narra Srinu, and Temper Vamsi among others in key roles.

Ustaad Bhagat Singh Crew

Naveen Yerneni and Y Ravi Shankar are producing the film under the Mythri Movie Makers banners. They are reportedly spending about Rs 150 Crore. Devi Sri Prasad is on board to compose the film's entire background score and tunes. Ayananka Bose and Chota K Prasad are working as the cinematographer and editor of Ustaad Bhagat Singh.
Dr Amir Hashim named new PSC General Manager for Asia

SINGAPORE, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr Amir Hashim has been appointed as the new General Manager for Asia for specialist global electricity industry consultants, PSC Asia, based in Singapore.

As the APAC region advances towards net zero, Dr Amir's appointment will enhance PSC's regional capabilities and further its commitment to lead Asia through the energy transition across its multifaceted markets. PSC has always been driven by the vision to empower individuals to transform the energy industry and is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Hashim.

Commenting on the appointment, Ashley Grohn, Managing Director Asia Pacific at PSC Consulting, said: "Amir's deep experience of the energy arena in both Asia and Europe puts him in the perfect position to help advise our growing APAC customer base on the vital need to transition to greener energy sources while keeping the lights on. He is acutely aware of the myriad of issues the region's electricity sector faces, coupled with the international pressures of meeting ESG goals and aligning with global net zero aims."

Dr Hashim's career in the electricity sector spans both academia and industry. He worked for many years with Malaysia's national utility provider, TNB, where he was involved in high-voltage power generation, transmission, distribution of electricity, and retail for the overall Malaysian market. Prior to joining PSC Consulting, he served as the principal consultant for the German technology company Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen in the APAC region.

The newly appointed GM said: "I am excited to join the team at PSC, which is ready, willing, and able to help APAC electricity providers with the intricate transition to more sustainable energy sources. As Asia strives to reduce its carbon intensity in power generation, meet ESG standards, and create carbon credits, I look forward to helping them in this transition.

"The social and political drivers to net zero in Asia differ significantly from those in Europe and the States. Governments and utilities in the region need a comfort level to advance swiftly. With support from the PSC team, companies can gain the assurance and confidence to rapidly meet their energy transition targets," he concluded.

About PSC

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/psc-consulting-strengthens-apac-leadership-with-new-asia-appointment-301926922.html
The Eiffel Tower served as the venue for the second Paris International Children's Art Festival (PICAF). The festival aimed to build an international platform for multicultural exchange and integration through the collaboration of renowned artists, charitable organizations, and all walks of society. Our platform seeks to promote fair and widespread dissemination and sharing of art education resources, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to receive art education.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230912019503/en/

(Photo: Business Wire)

The festival was organized by the European Artists Association (AAE) with support from UNESCO (Chad) and sponsorship from the International Institute of Well-Being (IIWB).

The festival's highlights included exclusive video courses led by prominent figures in the art world. Remy Aron, Chairman of the French Styling Arts Association and Professor of Painting and Printmaking at the Paris Academy of Fine Arts, shared his insights. Claude Yvel, a contemporary hyperrealist surrealist painter, and Philippe Muyl, renowned French playwright and director of "The Butterfly," also contributed their expertise. Those artists provided valuable advice on "The importance of art education for children's growth and its lifelong influence" to children and parents alike.

The event also featured insights from exemplary families from France, Germany, Singapore, Hong Kong, and beyond, who shared their experiences in nurturing children's artistic talents. Representatives from the Embassy of Chad in China and UNESCO Chad expressed optimism and high expectations for the Chad-UNESCO collaboration project through video messages.

Estelle, representing the AAE, traced the festival's journey of development during her speech. Jason Arthaud, a PICAF-invited artist, stressed the importance of allowing children to "develop freely" before introducing structured learning. Ms. Sun Xiaoyu, representing IIWB, reaffirmed the association's commitment to the mental development and growth of children worldwide.

In addition, the art festival featured interactive zones and an exhibition area for outstanding artworks, allowing children to unleash their energy and creativity. Ms. Grace Shi, the Executive Director and Spokesperson of IIWB Association, and Ms. Emily Cheong, the Secretary-General, were present at the event.

The closing of the festival marks the beginning of a new chapter. Anticipation is already building for the next edition of the festival, where children's dreams will once again take center stage on the art platform!

Website: WWW.AAEFRANCE.COM

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230912019503/en/

Contacts:

Contact Person: ESTELLE GE

Email: CONTACT.FR@NEWARTPOWER.COM
Top policymakers and business leaders from Africa and the Republic of Korea gathered in Paris on Tuesday to discuss regional integration, industrial productivity and ways to further economic growth and cooperation.

Over 150 leaders attended the Africa-Korea Business Summit. Speakers at the event included Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Albert Muchanga, African Union (AU) Commissioner for Trade and Industry, Jang Sung-min, Special Envoy and Senior Secretary to the President for Future Strategy of the ROK, Mze Abdou Mohamed Chanfiou, Finance Minister of the Union of Comoros, Sim Thsabalala, CEO of Standard Bank and Yu Jeong-joon, Vice Chairman of SK Group

SEOUL, South Korea, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Africa-Korea Business Summit was hosted at the Peninsula Hotel in Paris by the Korea-Africa Foundation and the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea. The theme for the business summit was 'Africa-Korean partnership in an era of great transformation.'

The President of the Korea- Africa Foundation, Lyeo Woon-ki stated 'This summit was organized to lay the foundation for '2024 Korea-Africa Summit' scheduled for next year and to provide an opportunity for Korean companies to explore market entry strategies into Africa and enhance their understanding of cooperation measures, especially given the full implementation phase of the AfCFTA that commenced in 2021." The Korean government plans to host the Korea-Africa Summit in 2024 in Korea.

The AfCFTA is the most extensive free trade zone both in terms of geographical coverage and the number of participating countries since the inception of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Fifty-four of the 55 African Union countries (excluding Eritrea) are members of the organization, representing 1.3 billion people and the economic bloc boasts a collective GDP of $3.4 trillion.

The summit featured presentations and in-depth discussions on topics including economic integration, trade, industrialization and productivity gaps, and opportunities for collaboration with Korean businesses and investors across a range of industries including agriculture, mining, energy, renewables, manufacturing and digitalization.

The sessions were attended by over 150 participants, including Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA; Albert Muchanga, Commissioner for Trade and Industry of the African Union Commission; Jang Sung-min, Special Envoy and Senior Secretary to the President for Future Strategy of the ROK; Sim Tshabalala, joint Chief Executive of the Standard Bank Group; Ban Ki-moon, former UN Secretary-General; Yu Jeong-joon, Vice Chairman and Head of U.S. Government & Corporate Affairs for SK Group; and Seo Sang-hyun, Senior Researcher at POSCO.

Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, in a video message delivered to commemorate the event, said, 'The Africa-Korea Business Summit is an excellent initiative', adding that 'Africa stands at a critical juncture and the continent is entering a new phase of high-powered economic integration.'

Mr. Ban elaborated by saying, "Africa is rapidly emerging as the world's largest growth market," and he went on to emphasize, "Without Africa, we cannot supply the impetus for green revolution or address pressing global issues such as the climate crisis."

Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA, delivered remarks during the session on the day, stating 'Challenges in Africa also act as opportunity for investors. 'Hyundai' could build manufacturing bases in Africa and 'Samsung' could expand theirs, not just in South Africa and Egypt as they do now."

Choi Kyong-lim, former Korean representative for WTO CTG stated "Geographically Korea is a very small country, however, our trade volume is the ultimate opposite with being ranked one of the biggest economy in the world. But the trade volume between Africa and Korea is less than 2 percent." and encouraged the participants "to put efforts for enhancing the economic partnership between Africa and Korea."

Also, Mr. Choi mentioned 2024 Korea-Africa Summit and urged Africa to support 2030 Busan EXPO which would be a significant business opportunity to Africa.

Jang Sung-min, Special Envoy and Senior Secretary to the President for Future Strategy of the ROK who represented President Yoon Suk-yeol at the event said that 'Africa is being elevated as the biggest and the most important growth hub in the global arena. Major efforts for the regional integration with AfCFTA will be the gateway to Africa's boundless potential. Prosperous Africa accords with not only international community but also with Korea, creating opportunities of new market to Korean private sectors upon the mutually beneficial genuine partnership"

Albert Muchanga, AU Commissioner for Trade and Industry who participated in a panel on industry and the great productivity gap in Africa stated that "Increasing productivity growth is imperative to achieving inclusive growth and sustainable development across Africa." and "As Korea's development experience, overcoming the productivity gap by investing in human capital development and utilization is a lesson to Africa and with the partnership between Korea and Africa, the continent will become a key engine of global economic expansion."

Vice President Yu for International Cooperation at SK Group, the second-largest conglomerate in Korea, said, 'I am honored to participate in this business summit, which will explore new opportunities for cooperation between the Korean private sector and African countries.' He further stated, 'Given the continent's unlimited business potential, it is crucial to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance our understanding of African nations.'

'This summit holds even greater significance as it elevates itself beyond a business forum', said Lyeo Woon-Ki, President of Korea-Africa Foundation, and he expressed his hope that it would serve as a meaningful opportunity for shaping new cooperation initiatives between Korea and Africa.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210076/photo_2023_09_13_22_59_41.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/africa-meets-korea-in-paris-for-landmark-business-summit-301927162.html
BEIJING, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from chinadaily.com.cn

Zibo city in East China's Shandong province - renowned for its ceramics - took center stage as it hosted the 23rd China (Zibo) International Ceramics Exposition on Sept 9-12.

The prestigious event drew attention from a diverse group of attendees - including a delegation of international reporters and influencers hailing from such countries as Britain, Canada, the United States and Egypt - who explored the artistic wonders of Zibo on Sept 10.

The expats' visit to Zibo was part of the "Meeting the Sea along the Yellow River" tour organized by the Shandong Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism.

The tour has seen a group of expats travel to the cities of Dongying, Weifang and Zibo in Shandong from Sept 8-10 to discover the treasures of intangible cultural heritage there and appreciate the charms of this ancient and modern land.

The immersive cultural exploration provided the expats with insights not only into the local ceramics sector, but also the exquisite artistry from China's nine key ceramics and glaze-producing areas - as well as masterpieces from 12 countries and regions, including the United Kingdom and Russia.

The event included six sections, with over 1,500 enterprises, universities and master studios participating.

"Attending the exposition was like stepping into a global mosaic of ceramic artistry. What struck me the most was the cultural flavor of the event. I felt the expo exemplified the potential of ceramics, to unite people as it acts as a conduit for cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and global unity," said Douglas Dueno, a foreign expert at the China Daily Website.

A notable addition was the consumer products pavilion, where Zibo-based enterprises showcased the city's rich cultural heritage in fashion, food, furniture and more, alongside ceramics and glazes.

In the ceramics hall, a groundbreaking moment unfolded as artificial intelligence was harnessed for the first time in a design by local firm Oulan Ceramics. Ceramic plates came to life with vibrant depictions of galloping horses, graceful forest deer and soaring cranes. Tang Chuanhu, the founder of Oulan Ceramics, lauded the innovative use of AI, emphasizing its pioneering impact nationwide.

Zibo was one of the early inventors of ceramics, dating back over 10,000 years to the early Neolithic Age. Its glaze culture also boasts a long history, dating back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220).

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/zibo-attracts-global-visitors-with-artistic-heritage-301927215.html
Featuring 110 tradable DeFi tokens and a fresh new look in version 3.7, the Telcoin App offers a viable alternative to centralized crypto exchanges.

SINGAPORE, Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Telcoin, a decentralized financial technology platform putting blockchain-powered mobile financial services at consumers' fingertips worldwide, has vastly expanded digital asset availability to users, adding the ability to store, send, and trade (where available) an additional 82 cryptocurrencies. The total number of DeFi assets available on the app is now 110. The Telcoin App offers an easy and intuitive way to trade tokens across DeFi protocols native to the Polygon Network, an Ethereum layer-two scaling solution that offers faster and more affordable trades than the Ethereum mainnet.

In addition to greatly increasing token availability, a new Telcoin App update brings a number of user experience and user interface improvements that will become the foundation for future releases. Market View makes its highly anticipated debut in version 3.7, and features live price updates for all digital assets available in the Telcoin App. It can be accessed from the brand new bottom navigation bar, which enables users to quickly tap between Wallet, Trade, Market View, and Account screens. Also, on the Wallet screen, tapping the top right corner of your card flips it, revealing your personal wallet address and Deposit QR code. This code can be used to easily deposit tokens from external accounts into your Telcoin App.

New tokens are available in the app today, and version 3.7's UI/UX upgrades will be rolling out in a phased manner - starting with Android devices and extending to iOS shortly.

"We're excited to offer an improved trading experience and support a lot more assets in the Telcoin App, and continue to grow as a legitimate alternative to centralized exchanges and the myriad issues plaguing a number of them over the past year," says Paul Neuner, Telcoin CEO. "Our emphasis on DeFi, our assisted self custody model, and our strong focus on compliance in every market where we operate has put us in an excellent position to capture users fleeing uncertainty to a safer, more trusted platform."

Currently, Telcoin users in the United States can deposit USDC into the Telcoin App with a debit card, with bank deposits and withdrawals planned to return soon. Users in France, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, and Sweden can deposit USDC into the Telcoin app with a debit card or bank account, and withdraw Euros via SEPA transfer. On and off ramps are set to extend to the rest of the European Union and beyond soon.

Beyond securely storing and trading digital assets, the Telcoin App also offers best-in-class digital fiat remittances to mobile money platforms across the globe. Telcoin Group is headquartered in Singapore where its operating entity is licensed as a Major Payment Institution. The Group's subsidiaries are also registered as money services businesses in the United States, Canada, and Australia. Telcoin Europe UAB, based in Lithuania, is registered as a digital asset exchange provider in the EU. In the United States, Telcoin notably supported the Nebraska Financial Innovation Act to create digital asset depository institutions for state-chartered banks, which was signed into law in May 2021.

iOS download: https://apple.co/3QAsM8W

Android download: https://bit.ly/3tWqmYv



Website: https://www.telco.in/

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/telcoin

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210590/Telcoin_adds_82_DeFi_tokens_app_a_fresh_UI_UX.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/new-digital-assets-and-an-updated-uiux-now-available-in-the-telcoin-app-301927236.html
DUBAI, UAE, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --In the heart of the United Arab Emirates, Astra Enterprise stands as a beacon of innovation and transformation, living up to its inspiring motto - "Empowering Nations, Transforming Futures." This UAE-based technology company has made remarkable strides in the realm of cutting-edge technologies, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage.

At the helm of this technological revolution is Sheikh Mohammed Bin Maktoum Bin Juma Al Maktoum, a partner and shareholder of Astra Enterprise. He lauds the company's unwavering commitment to excellence, particularly in compliance and finance, ensuring a safer and more secure economy for both the UAE and international partners.

Astra Enterprise's remarkable journey is marked by several milestones, including the acquisition of multiple technology patents that cover a wide range of innovations. These patents demonstrate the company's prowess in securing data across diverse ledgers, offering an escrow service that guarantees the safety of funds, and pioneering systems that provide irrefutable trust in smart contracts.

Over the past decade, Astra Enterprise has expanded its reach to an astonishing 157 countries, underpinned by a portfolio of globally granted patents. Their technology has created ripples of change across various sectors, from finance and government to digital identity and carbon credit exchange. Notably, Astra's innovations have had a profound impact on reducing carbon footprints and enhancing resource management in both developed and developing nations.

Astra Enterprise's portfolio comprises five distinct products, each tailored for specific purposes while sharing a common objective: digitizing processes and cutting costs. These products include:

ASTRA Compliance Service : A unique solution that aids governments and businesses in maintaining compliance with international standards.

: A unique solution that aids governments and businesses in maintaining compliance with international standards. BANKING SOLUTIONS : Robust financial applications that empower financial institutions to streamline their operations.

: Robust financial applications that empower financial institutions to streamline their operations. BUSINESS APPLICATIONS : Innovative industry tools designed to enhance productivity and efficiency.

: Innovative industry tools designed to enhance productivity and efficiency. DISASTER RELIEF : Astra's response to social good, providing vital support during crises.

: Astra's response to social good, providing vital support during crises. SMART GOVERNMENT: Digitized public sector services that revolutionize governance.

The journey of Astra Enterprise is guided by its visionary founders, Arthur Ali, Jez Ali, and Damien O'Brien, whose astute business acumen have transformed their vision into a reality. Moreover, the company boasts an impressive team of key figureheads and shareholders, including Ant Middleton, a former UK Special Forces operative and global best-selling author, who also plays a pivotal role in the company's leadership and brings to the forefront his Military grade technology security knowledge and mindset. Luke Sellwood, a prominent entrepreneur well-known in the UAE, serves as both a shareholder and key figurehead, contributing his extensive expertise to Astra's global growth.

In addition to these influential figures, Astra Enterprise has key executive advisors, including Phil Hogan, the former EU Trade Commissioner with extensive experience currently advising JP Morgan, and political heavyweight Mick Mulvaney, former White House chief of staff. These seasoned advisors, among other members, bring diverse perspectives and invaluable insights that further enrich Astra's innovative initiatives.

As Astra Enterprise continues to shine on the global stage, one can only anticipate even greater innovations and transformations, both within the UAE and beyond. Their commitment to making the world a better place through technology is a beacon of hope and progress for all. With such remarkable minds guiding their journey, Astra Enterprise is poised to continue its extraordinary path toward a brighter, more technologically advanced future for nations across the globe.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/astra-enterprise-empowering-nations-transforming-futures-with-cutting-edge-technologies-301926661.html
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Tsodilo Resources Limited ("Tsodilo" or the "Company") (TSX-V:TSD)(OTCQB:TSDRF)(FSE:TZO) as informed by the Ministry of Works and Transport (Namibia) is pleased to announce that the Nambian Cabinet has approved the Final Feasibility Study ("FFS" or the "Study") for the Trans-Zambezi Railway Extension Grootfontein-Rundu-Katima Mulilo.

Minister of Works and Transport Minister John Mutorwa commented that "Namibia is at the forefront of coordinating the extension of the Grootfontein-Katima Mulilo railway project. We are now at the stage where the finance ministry is in the lead to see how we can fund this, because it's not only a Namibian railway line. It is like a road that will connect us to other countries, such as Zambia and Botswana, through Ngoma up to Kasane, and link up with Zimbabwe and Zambia, where the bridge is, up to the Democratic Republic of Congo."

The cross-border rail project aims to link new mines and mining activities to the railway network along the Walvis Bay - Ndola - Lubumbashi Development Corridor to enable transportation of minerals from the Copperbelt to Walvis Bay. This corridor is perfectly positioned to service the two-way trade between the SADC region and Europe, North and South America and emerging markets in the East, see Figure 1 for a regional context to this important transport corridor.

"Namibia Cabinet's approval is a crucial and big step forward. The rail extension is an important development for Tsodilo as it opens up a proximate rail transportation system for the delivery of our Xaudum Iron Formation project's potential iron products, such as iron concentrate, iron pellets, potential direct reduced iron (DRI) products, and Ferrosilicone (FeSi), throughout central, eastern and southern Africa as well as international markets. Rail transportation is complementary to our goal of becoming the supplier of an ultra-high grade +67% Fe product to the industry and doing what we can to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by becoming part of the "green steel" movement." commented Tsodilo's Chairman and CEO, James M. Bruchs.

The proposed rail extension between Grootfontein and Katima Mulilo is significant as the extension is planned to pass through Divundu in Namibia which is located 35 kilometers (22 miles) from our license location in Northern Botswana, see Figure 2. The Trans-Zambezi Railway extension feasibility study can be viewed in its entirety at: https://tsodiloresources.com/s/Metals-671052.asp.html .

XAUDUM IRON FORMATION (XIF)

About the XIF Project

The project is located in the North-West District of Botswana and is proximate to the Namibian border and lies twenty-two (22) miles from the town of Divundu in Namibia. The Walvis Bay-Ndola-Lubumbashi Development Corridor (previously known as the Trans-Caprivi) line linking Zambia and Namibia is planned to pass through Divundu, providing access to Walvis Bay, Namibia's deep-sea port. The project is also located within forty-three (43) miles of the proposed Mucusso line to Angola's Namibe Port.

Preliminary work on the Xaudum Iron project has defined a CIM compliant Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate of 441 million tonnes (Mt) with an average grade of 29.4% Fe, 41.0% SiO2, 6.1% Al2O3 and 0.3% P for the Block 1 magnetite XIF.

Block 1 is a fraction of the potential XIF magnetite resource. An extrapolated exploration target has defined the XIF to be in the order of 5 to 7 billion tonnes at 15 - 40% Fe. This exploration target was generated by inversion modelling of ground magnetic geophysical data which was compared and moderated to volumes from drilling data within Block 1 and its potential quantity and grade is conceptual in nature. To date, there has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource other than in Block 1 and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the target being delineated as a mineral resource. See, Press Release of 6/02/2014 on the Company's website for further details.

on the Company's website for further details. Metallurgical magnetic separation results (Davis Tube Recovery) show that an average concentrate of 67.2% Fe, 4.2% SiO2, 0.5% Al2O3, 0.07% P is obtained at P80 grind size of 80 microns, although higher grades are possible at finer P80's. See, Press Release of 12/17/2013 on the Company's website.

on the Company's website. Further exploration will be focused on Block 2a where the Company expects an increase in the resource.

Additional informational of the project can be found on the Company's website at https://tsodiloresources.com/s/Metals.asp.html and further technical information can be found in a report prepared by SRK Consulting (UK) Ltd. for Gcwihaba Resources (Pty) Ltd. titled "Mineral Resource Estimate for the Xaudum Iron Project (Block 1), Republic of Botswana" with an effective date of August 29, 2014, and filed on SEDAR under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com.

About Tsodilo Resources Limited

Tsodilo Resources Limited is an international resource exploration company engaged in the search for economic metal and diamond deposits at its Gcwihaba Resources (Pty) Limited ("Gcwihaba") and Bosoto (Pty) Ltd. ("Bosoto) projects in Botswana. The Company has a 100% stake in its Gcwihaba project area consisting of five metal (base, precious, platinum group, and rare earth) prospecting licenses all located in the North-West district of Botswana. The Company has a 100% stake in Bosoto (Pty) Ltd. which holds the BK16 kimberlite project in the Orapa Kimberlite Field (OKF) in Botswana. Tsodilo manages the exploration of the Gcwihaba and Bosoto projects. Overall supervision of the Company's exploration program is the responsibility of McDonald Kahari (Pr. Sci. Nat.) a "qualified person" as such term is defined in National Instrument 43-101.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

James M. Bruchs Chairman and Chief Executive Officer JBruchs@TsodiloResources.com Head Office Telephone +1 416 572 2033 Facsimile + 1 416 987 4369 Website http://www.TsodiloResources.com

This press release may contain forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future (including, without limitation, statements pertaining to the use of proceeds, the impact of strategic partnerships and statements that describe the Company's future plans, objectives or goals) are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward- looking statements, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on the Company. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, changes in equity markets, changes in general economic conditions, market volatility, political developments in Botswana and surrounding countries, changes to regulations affecting the Company's activities, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, exploration and development risks, the uncertainties involved in interpreting exploration results and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration business. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements and, even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, uncertainties relating to availability and cost of funds, timing and content of work programs, results of exploration activities, interpretation of drilling results and other geological data, risks relating to variations in the diamond grade and kimberlite lithologies; variations in rates of recovery and breakage; estimates of grade and quality of diamonds, variations in diamond valuations and future diamond prices; the state of world diamond markets, reliability of mineral property titles, changes to regulations affecting the Company's activities, delays in obtaining or failure to obtain required project approvals, operational and infrastructure risk and other risks involved in the diamond exploration and development business. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to their inherent uncertainty.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. This news release may contain assumptions, estimates, and other forward-looking statements regarding future events. Such forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties and are subject to factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control, which may cause actual results or performance to differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements.

SOURCE: Tsodilo Resources Limited

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783819/tsodilo-resources-limited--republic-of-namibia-approves-feasibility-study-for-the-trans-zambezi-railway-extension-grootfontein-rundu-katima-mulilo
ISSAQUAH (dpa-AFX) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service or FSIS has issued a public health alert for Costco's a ready-to-eat or RTE Kirkland Signature chicken tortilla soup product citing misbranding. The label declares the product, manufactured by Kettle Cuisine Midco, LLC, as gluten-free, which is a false negative claim. The affected product is 2-lb. tubs containing 'KIRKLAND Signature CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP WITH WHITE CHICKEN MEAT' with 'USE BY: 11/23/23' and lot code 1394066. On September 9, food manufacturer Kettle Cuisine had informed Costco that Kirkland Signature brand Chicken Tortilla Soup with the same lot code has been recalled citing undeclared gluten. The FSIS now issued the warning to ensure that consumers with reactions to gluten are aware that these products should not be consumed. The agency did not initiate a recall as the affected products are no longer available for purchase. The FSIS action follows the firm's notification that laboratory testing found gluten in the chicken tortilla soup, which is labeled as gluten-free. However, there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products to date. The ready-to-eat chicken tortilla soup items, with establishment number 'P-18468' inside the USDA mark of inspection, were produced on July 26. These items were shipped to retail locations in Alaska, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. Over concerns that some products may be in consumers' refrigerators or freezers, the agency urged them to throw away or return them to the place of purchase. In similar incidents, the FSIS in early August warned against certain ready-to-eat or RTE salads and wraps with meat and poultry due to concerns that may contain contaminated lettuce with deer feces. The agency also issued a public health alert against certain raw beef product sold at select Aldi stores citing possible contamination with extraneous material, specifically soft, clear plastic. For More Such Health News, visit rttnews.com Copyright(c) 2023 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.


NEW DELHI (dpa-AFX) - Pharmazz, Inc., a Willowbrook, Illinois-based biopharmaceutical company, announced Thursday that it has entered into a license agreement with India's Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. to introduce Tyvalzi (Sovateltide) in India. The country is the first global territory where Sovateltide is being introduced.



Sovateltide is indicated to treat acute cerebral ischemic stroke, a condition in which the loss of blood supply to the brain prevents brain tissue from receiving oxygen and nutrients. This would result in potential brain damage, neurological deficits, or death. The drug can be administered up to 24 hours after the onset of symptoms.



Under the deal terms, Sun Pharma will get rights for marketing Sovateltide in India under the brand name Tyvalzi (Sovateltide). Pharmazz will be entitled to upfront and milestone payments, including royalties.



Sun Pharma, the largest pharmaceutical company in India, is the owner of the brand name Tyvalzi, which promotes neurovascular remodeling by forming new neurons and blood vessels. Tyvalzi also protects neural mitochondria and enhances their biogenesis.



Pharmazz obtained marketing authorization for two of its first-in-class drug molecules, Centhaquine and Sovateltide, for hypovolemic shock and ischemic stroke, respectively, in India.



Kirti Ganorkar, CEO - India Business, Sun Pharma said, 'The Phase 3 clinical trial for Tyvalzi conducted in India demonstrated statistically and clinically meaningful improvement in neurological outcomes in ischemic stroke. Tyvalzi is a first-in-class innovative drug which can help improve the quality of life of stroke patients. The drug can be administered within 24 hours for the treatment of ischemic stroke. The current treatment options provide a narrow time window of 4-5 hours limiting its use in most patients.'



According to the company, the global burden of disease project estimated the number of incident cases of stroke in India to be around 1.18 millon. By 2050, more than 80% of the predicted global burden of new strokes of 15 million is expected to occur in low and middle-income countries.



For More Such Health News, visit rttnews.com



Copyright(c) 2023 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX
Lhyfe's green hydrogen would power Exogen's hydrogen steam plants and also be used in mobility applications.

Exogen to supply and service a pioneering Hydrogen Steam Plant, offering operating synergies from integrated mobility solutions powered by green hydrogen.

Jericho to supply its patented, zero-emissions hydrogen boiler technology.

Lhyfe to build and operate green hydrogen production facilities for the combined product offering, opening large new markets for growth in industrial steam and district heating.

Nantes (France) and Milan (Italy), 14/15 September 2023, 7:30 a.m. CET - Lhyfe (EURONEXT: LHYFE) and Exogen Hydrogen Solutions (Exogen) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the combined offering of comprehensive decarbonisation solutions for industrial steam, district heating, and mobility applications powered by green hydrogen. This partnership paves the way for a new type of ecosystem and vast markets for green and renewable hydrogen.

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

The partnership includes a commercial agreement to identify potential customers across Europe. Both organisations will promote their respective products and services to the benefit of clients seeking to unlock operating synergies from integrated decarbonisation solutions.

There is growing demand by multinationals and industrial clusters targeting operating synergies from combining thermal and mobility solutions powered by green hydrogen. The mobility applications are aimed at hydrogen refilling stations for forklifts, vans, delivery trucks and cars. Thermal solutions include industrial steam, large buildings and district heating applications.

Steam production is a core component of many industrial processes with a highly valuable, continuous demand profile. Industries with a large process steam demand include pulp and paper, food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals, and the oil and gas industry. Large buildings thermal applications include airports, hospitals, commercial centres, and campus heating facilities.

ON-SITE SYNERGIES

Zero emissions: Exogen offers a pioneering Hydrogen Steam Plant, the HSP 3000, featuring boiler technology by Jericho Energy Ventures, (TSXV:JEV), (OTC PINK:JROOF), (FRA:JLM). This breakthrough, zero-emissions steam plant for industrial and district heating applications is a turn-key solution. The hydrogen-powered installation is produced and serviced by industry leader Sofinter Group, and comes pre-assembled in container-sized units, shipped by road transport. It has no smokestack and eliminates all NOx and CO2 emissions from industrial steam and district heating.

The only exhaust is clean water, which is ready for circular use with Lhyfe's green hydrogen production system, further enhancing the positive environmental impact. Indeed, Lhyfe - as one of the world's pioneers in the production of green and renewable hydrogen - uses water and renewable energies to produce its hydrogen via water electrolysis.

Demand enabler: Because of its base-load hydrogen demand profile, the Exogen HSP 3000 has become a key enabler for other hydrogen applications. Once green hydrogen becomes available on-site and in industrial quantities, other applications, such as mobility, transport and logistics, become natural extensions to further decarbonise the value chain. As a result, the combined applications can unlock material operating synergies and cost advantages thanks to scale effects.

This is where the leading expertise of Lhyfe comes in. Lhyfe inaugurated its first green hydrogen production site in 2021. With five additional sites under construction throughout Europe, it aims to achieve 55 MW of installed capacity of hydrogen production by end 2024, 200 MW by end 2026 and more than 3 GW by end 2030. Through its production sites and its portfolio of projects, Lhyfe intends to provide access to green and renewable hydrogen in industrial quantities to significantly decarbonise sectors such as transport and industry (chemicals, steel, glass, etc).

Two avenues for growth: First, the partnership with Exogen can lead to significant capacity growth for the existing pipeline of projects at Lhyfe, servicing a large new end-market in industrial steam. Second, with district heating and process steam, Lhyfe is entering into two entirely new market segments, which are expected to lead to additional growth opportunities in green hydrogen production.

MANAGEMENT COMMENTS

Philippe Desorme, VP of Sales & Business Development at Lhyfe said: "Green hydrogen has become highly relevant for decarbonising industrial steam, district heating and logistics. By partnering with Exogen we expect a significant expansion of our green hydrogen production output over time, while also opening a completely new market segment for us. Therefore, we are very excited to work with Exogen and our clients to help unlock operating synergies and address new hydrogen demand."

Saverio Costanzo, CRO at Exogen said: "Decarbonising heat is the single biggest challenge in energy markets. The Exogen Hydrogen Steam Plant is a great solution for many businesses because it will permanently eliminate CO2 and NOx emissions from their incumbent production process. As a result, our clients can deliver meaningfully decarbonised products and services to their customers, unlocking new growth opportunities. In our mission to decarbonise energy applications, Lhyfe is an ideal partner; together we can serve customers across Europe with comprehensive solutions. I am very excited about the early feedback from multinationals and district heating providers for our combined offering. The future of energy applications is green, and we are right in the middle of it."

For an interview with the spokespersons above, please contact the press department.

Click to access the Lhyfe Media Kit (press kit and visuals)

About Lhyfe

Lhyfe is a European group devoted to energy transition, and a producer and supplier of green and renewable hydrogen. Its production sites and portfolio of projects intend to provide access to green and renewable hydrogen in industrial quantities, and enable the creation of a virtuous energy model capable of decarbonising entire sectors of industry and transport.

In 2021, Lhyfe inaugurated the first industrial-scale green hydrogen production plant in the world to be interconnected with a wind farm. In 2022, Lhyfe inaugurated the first offshore green hydrogen production pilot platform in the world.

Lhyfe is represented in 11 European countries and had 149 staff at the end of 2022. The company is listed on the Euronext market in Paris (ISIN: FR0014009YQ1 - LHYFE).

Lhyfe.com

About EXOGEN

EXOGEN offers end-to-end hydrogen technology solutions. We are a product and service provider in the fast-expanding hydrogen value chain. EXOGEN works with highly innovative companies across industry, commerce, and the built environment to help achieve their Net Zero goals. We offer comprehensive decarbonisation solutions for industrial steam, mobility, green power, and district heating applications. The pioneering hydrogen steam plant, Exogen HSP 3000, is a zero-emissions turnkey solution for hard-to-abate sectors of the economy. Together with Park Lane, an independent financial adviser to the hydrogen ecosystem, we connect distributed green energy assets with regulated ESG funding pools. Our combined Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) offering is allocating capital efficiently, identifying the natural owner of green energy assets and their infrastructure. As a result, we can lower funding costs for our industry clients, while improving portfolio diversification and ESG ratings for institutional investors.

Website: https://exogen.energy/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/exogen-hydrogen

Contacts:

Lhyfe: Industry Press Relations

Nouvelles Graines

Clemence Rebours:

+33 (0)6 60 57 76 43

c.rebours@nouvelles-graines.com Financial Press Relations

ACTUS

Manon Clairet

+33 (0)1 53 67 36 73

mclairet@actus.fr Investor Relations

LHYFE

Yoann Nguyen

investors@lhyfe.com

EXOGEN

Saverio Costanzo

Director EXOGEN Hydrogen Solutions

Phone: +39 342 753 3946

saverio@exogen.energy

------------------------

This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ".

- SECURITY MASTER Key:

lWieYpaZZpydlW1tY5tmbGRpaJmSmWmUaWrHyZRva8qVb59hnW+SZpfHZnFinGtv

- Check this key: https://www.security-master-key.com.

------------------------



 Copyright Actusnews Wire

Receive by email the next press releases of the company by registering on www.actusnews.com, it's free

Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-81769-lhyfe-pr-exogen_20230914-en.pdf
Mucosal route induces both localized and systemic immunity

Intravacc is currently developing 3 OMV-based intranasal vaccines

Article published in peer-reviewed journal 'Current Opinions in Immunology'



BILTHOVEN, Netherlands, Sept. 14, 2023, a leading Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization.





Dr. Peter van der Ley, senior scientist of Intravacc and lead author,stated:

"Our review showcases OMVs' potential in mucosal immunization. They prompt robust local and distant immune responses. This offers a new angle for battling infectious diseases."

The review article highlights OMVs, released from Gram-negative bacteria, as promising vaccine candidates. They can carry diverse antigens, including those from viruses and bacteria, making them a versatile vaccine platform, especially when administered intranasally. By targeting the mucosal route, vaccines can induce both localized and systemic immunity. The findings, backed by animal trials, demonstrate OMV-based vaccines' efficacy against various pathogens. They also stress the safety and feasibility of intranasal delivery as an alternative to needles. The review points to ongoing clinical trials. OMV-based vaccines fuel optimism for innovative vaccine strategies that tap into mucosal immunity's untapped potential.

Dr. Jan Groen, Intravacc's CEO, says:

"As a CDMO, we are presently developing three OMV-based intranasal vaccines to address bacterial and viral infections for diverse customers. This illustrates the extensive potential of our OMV platform technology, which can also be harnessed for therapeutic vaccines, including those for cancer."

About Intravacc's OMV platform technology

For the development of vaccines, Intravacc has designed and developed a platform based on OMVs - spherical particles with intrinsic immune-stimulating properties. The OMVs can be designed with immunogenic peptides and/or proteins that stimulate effective adaptive immunity. The OMV carrier has been optimized to induce a more effective immune response against these newly introduced antigens. Intravacc has also developed genetic tools to increase the yield of the OMVs, reduce the toxicity and achieve the desired antigenic composition. Intravacc's OMV platform is scalable and allows rapid and efficient modification of the antigen composition, either through genetic modification of the bacterial host or by associating antigens with stored OMVs.

Watch the animation about Intravacc's Avacc 10 intranasal COVID Vaccine

About Intravacc

Intravacc, located at Utrecht Science Park Bilthoven in the Netherlands, is a leading global CDMO for infectious diseases and therapeutic vaccines. As an established independent CDMO with many years of experience in the development and optimization of vaccines and vaccine technologies, Intravacc has transferred its technology world-wide for many vaccines including polio, measles, DPT, Hib and influenza. Approximately 30% of childhood disease vaccines are based on Intravacc's know-how and proprietary technology. Intravacc offers a wide range of expertise for independent vaccine development, from concept to Phase I/II clinical studies for partners around the world, including biotech and pharmaceutical companies, governmental agencies and NGOs. With its innovative vaccine platforms OMV-VaccT, Cell-VaccT, Con-VaccT, E.co-VaccT and good manufacturing procedures (GMP) facilities the company is well positioned to address the unmet needs in the vaccine and immune therapy market.

Click here for the full article.



For more information, please visit www.intravacc.nl .

Contact info

Intravacc B.V.

Dr. Jan Groen, CEO

P: +31 30 7920 454

Sander Hagemans, Media relations

P: +31 30 7920 579

E: press.office@intravacc.nl

An infographic accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f2c233c1-52f2-4670-921a-e0e4b097bf59
LYSAKER, Norway, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TECO 2030 (OSE: TECO, OTCQX: TECFF, ISIN: NO0010887516) and Pherousa Green Shipping AS (PGS) sign green package supply agreement for up to six modern, zero-emission Ultramax dry bulk carriers of about 63.000 deadweight tons each. Each vessel will be equipped with 12 megawatts (MW) of TECO 2030 fuel cells for main propulsion onboard.



The TECO 2030 delivery scope is a green package approx. worth EUR 23 million per vessel. The delivery for TECO 2030 includes a complete system of fuel cells installed on a skid solution as well as power and automation equipment and is estimated to start shipment to shipyard by early-2026, with delivery in mid-2026. The fuel cell system will go into production at our Innovation Center in Narvik, Norway at the end of 2024.

Pherousa Green Shipping 63.000 dwt Ultramax. Design Deltamarin



A 12 MW fuel cell system will be utilized for full propulsion onboard each of the six vessels, enabling 100% emission-free operations. Each vessel will be about 63.000-deadweight tons and the first vessel is targeted for delivery Q1 2027.

The TECO 2030 fuel cell system will be installed in combination with a Pherousa Green Technologies AS' (PGT) ammonia to hydrogen cracker. Bunkering ammonia and cracking to hydrogen on board the vessel will solve the present storage and infrastructure challenges of hydrogen as a marine fuel and thus paving the way for zero-emission deep-sea shipping.

Opting for hydrogen fuel cells in combination with an ammonia cracker allows shipowners to commence with ammonia and transition to hydrogen whenever desired, minimizing the investment risks. This approach does not only position ammonia as a viable hydrogen carrier but also enables its economic trade as a preferred fuel in shipping and complementing its traditional role in the chemical and fertilizer sector.

The total supply agreement is subject to financing of PGS' newbuild vessels and reaching a final contract of supply, including closing price negotiations, according to industry standards.

"We are excited to team up with TECO 2030 and incorporate their Fuel Cell solution together with our own Cracking technology, permitting the Pherousa newbuildings to be the first ever fully electric deep-sea vessels on water," said Hans Bredrup, Chairman of the Pherousa group. He further commented: "The technology combination between TECO 2030 and Pherousa doesn't only reduce the ammonia consumption versus the ammonia fueled Internal Combustion Engines currently being developed, it also avoids burning Ammonia together with Carbon based pilot fuels" and adds: "Truly Zero-Emission by Choice."

"We are proud to sign a firm supply agreement for six vessels with Pherousa Green Shipping, they are a young forward-thinking shipowner who wants to realize zero emissions deep-sea shipping. Pherousa is an exciting company, with a clear vision of proving that hydrogen and ammonia can be utilized to fuel tomorrow's deep-sea vessels," said enthusiastically Tore Enger, Group CEO, TECO 2030.

Contact TECO 2030:

Tore Enger, Group CEO, +47 92083800, tore.enger@teco2030.no

About TECO 2030:

TECO 2030 is building up Europe's first Giga production facility of hydrogen PEM fuel cell stacks and modules in Narvik, Norway. The production capacity will be built up through 2023 and early 2024, targeting an output capacity of 400 MW of fuel cells in 2025, increasing to 1.6 GW in 2030.

TECO 2030 is a Norwegian based clean tech company developing zero-emission technology for the maritime and heavy industry. We are developing PEM hydrogen fuel cell stacks and PEM hydrogen fuel cell modules, that enable ships and other heavy-duty applications to become emissions-free. The company is listed on Euronext Growth on Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker TECO and in New York, OTCQX under the ticker TECFF. TECO2030 is a spinoff from TECO Maritime Group, a group that has provided technology and services to the global shipping industry since 1994. For more information, please visit www.teco2030.no.

Contact Pherousa Green Shipping AS:

Hans Bredrup, Chairman, +47 90951129 / +56998873036, hans@pherousa.no

About Pherousa Green Shipping AS:

Pherousa Green Shipping AS, headquartered in Oslo and established in 2023, is in the process of initiating an order for up to six modern, zero-emission Ultramax dry bulk carriers. These vessels are designed by Deltamarin in Finland and will be crewed and managed by OSM Thome Ship Management. The initial ship design is derived from an existing Deltamarin Ultramax model, but it has been modified to include the ammonia cracking technology developed by Pherousa Green Technologies AS (PGT). This technology employs ammonia as a hydrogen carrier, enabling true zero-emission propulsion.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c3117cb4-0aec-463a-9be4-a81ecae525d5
investment of over 400 million euros to build its Normand'Hy electrolyzer to contribute to the decarbonization of the Normandy industrial basin and mobility

signature of an agreement with TotalEnergies to supply their Gonfreville refinery with renewable and low-carbon hydrogen.

Regulatory News:

On the occasion of the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to supply the TotalEnergies refinery in Gonfreville, Normandy, France, with renewable and low-carbon hydrogen, Air Liquide (Paris:AI) announces an investment of over 400 million euros for the construction of its Normand'Hy electrolyzer, with a capacity of 200 MW. The cooperation between Air Liquide and TotalEnergies is part of the development of a renewable and low-carbon hydrogen sector on the Axe Seine, to contribute to decarbonizing industry in the Normandy region.

As part of this agreement, the Air Liquide Normand'Hy electrolyzer will deliver to TotalEnergies' refinery in Gonfreville, over the long term, from the second half of 2026, renewable and low-carbon hydrogen equivalent to an electrolysis capacity of 100 MW. The remaining 100 MW will be dedicated to customers in the Normandy industrial basin, as well as for the development of low-carbon mobility.

To supply Air Liquide Normand'Hy, TotalEnergies will generate up to 100 MW renewable electricity to power the electrolyzer, volume corresponding to the hydrogen delivered to its refinery. For the remainder of the electrolyzer's electricity needs, Air Liquide plans to sign long-term renewable Power Purchase Agreements (PPA), completed with low-carbon energy from the French power grid.

Air Liquide Normand'Hy is the largest PEM electrolyzer ever built. Based on Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolysis technology, it will integrate equipment produced in the framework of the joint venture between Air Liquide and Siemens Energy. Avoiding up to 250,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year, it will be located in the Port-Jerome industrial zone in Normandy, France, and will be part of Air Liquide's local hydrogen network1

Air Liquide Normand'Hy will represent an investment of over 400 million euros for the Group. Within the framework of the Important Project of Common European Interest (PIIEC) approved by the European Commission, the project has received the support of the French government for an amount of 190 million euros, as part of the "Plan de Relance"

Pascal Vinet, Executive Vice President and a member of Air Liquide's Executive Committee, supervising notably Europe Industries activities, stated: "This Memorandum of Understanding with TotalEnergies illustrates our ability to offer concrete decarbonization solutions to our customers. Air Liquide Normand'Hy will contribute to the decarbonization trajectory of our assets; it is also in line with our commitment to accompany the industry and mobility sectors in their path to reducing their carbon footprint. Our collaboration with TotalEnergies also strengthens hydrogen development in Normandy. Supported by the French State and the European Union, the Air Liquide Normand'Hy project confirms our commitment to develop renewable and low-carbon hydrogen production by electrolysis technology at industrial scale."

Bernard Pinatel, President, Refining Chemicals, TotalEnergies, added: "This partnership with Air Liquide marks a new stage in TotalEnergies' ambition to decarbonize the hydrogen consumed by its refineries in Europe by 2030. By powering the electrolyzer with renewable electricity from solar and wind projects, TotalEnergies is leveraging its position as an integrated electricity player."

As part of the Hy2Use Major Project of Common European Interest (PIIEC) approved by the European Commission, the project has received support from the French government to the tune of 190 million euros, financed by the European Union Next generation EU and by the French government as part of France 2030 and the "Plan de Relance"

A world leader in gases, technologies and services for Industry and Health, Air Liquide is present in 73 countries with approximately 67,100 employees and serves more than 3.9 million customers and patients. Oxygen, nitrogen and hydrogen are essential small molecules for life, matter and energy. They embody Air Liquide's scientific territory and have been at the core of the company's activities since its creation in 1902.

Taking action today while preparing the future is at the heart of Air Liquide's strategy. With ADVANCE, its strategic plan for 2025, Air Liquide is targeting a global performance, combining financial and extra-financial dimensions. Positioned on new markets, the Group benefits from major assets such as its business model combining resilience and strength, its ability to innovate and its technological expertise. The Group develops solutions contributing to climate and the energy transition-particularly with hydrogen-and takes action to progress in areas of healthcare, digital and high technologies.

Air Liquide's revenue amounted to more than 29.9 billion euros in 2022. Air Liquide is listed on the Euronext Paris stock exchange (compartment A) and belongs to the CAC 40, CAC 40 ESG, EURO STOXX 50, FTSE4Good and DJSI Europe indexes.

www.airliquide.com

1 The Air Liquide network already includes two production units the hydrogen unit at the TotalEnergies refinery in Gonfreville and the hydrogen unit at Port-Jerome, where the Group has installed its CO2 capture solution CryocapTM

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913065574/en/

Contacts:

Corporate Communications

media@airliquide.com

Investor Relations

IRTeam@airliquide.com
LONDON (dpa-AFX) - Fintech company IG Group Holdings plc (IGG.L) Thursday reported slightly higher revenues in its first quarter. Looking ahead, the company said it remains confident of achieving its medium-term targets, and are progressing with plans to drive even greater cost efficiency. In its trading update for the three months to August 31, the company reported total revenue of 242.9 million pounds, higher than last year's 241.8 million pounds. The company said the revenue growth reflected the benefit of business diversification over the past few years, as 8% drop in OTC derivatives revenue was offset by 37 percent growth in exchange traded derivatives and 61 percent growth in stock trading and investments. Total revenues within the Core Markets+ portfolio reduced by 6% to 188.7 million pounds, reflecting softer market conditions through most of the quarter. High Potential Markets portfolio revenues climbed 30 percent. Total active clients across the company in the quarter were 267,000, down from last year's 279,300. Total client money balances of 4.1 billion pounds remained stable on the year end balances. As announced on August 29, the Board has commenced a comprehensive search process for a permanent CEO and expects to make an appointment in the coming months. The company is scheduled to release its first-half results in January 2024. Copyright(c) 2023 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Suvoda's global workforce is on track for double-digit growth

PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Suvoda LLC, a global clinical trial technology company that specializes in complex studies in therapeutic areas like oncology, central nervous system (CNS), and rare disease, has expanded its presence in Romania with the opening of its newest office in Iasi.

This strategic move further enhances Suvoda's ability to meet increasing global demand following the company's successful launch of its clinical trial technology platform and powerful new eCOA solution earlier this year. Suvoda's Iasi office, which officially opened in July, will house teams specializing in product development, software engineering, and professional services, with plans to expand into other areas as the company grows.

"Our new Iasi office is important because it is home to an enviable talent pool that will enable us to continue providing our customers the high-quality solutions and support that Suvoda is recognized for across the globe," said Marius Manole, co-founder and vice president of technical solutions, general manager of Suvoda Romania.

Palas Iasi, where the Suvoda office is situated, is a prime mixed-use development located in the heart of Iasi's Civic Centre district, in proximity to the iconic Palace of Culture. Suvoda's office space is thoughtfully designed to facilitate teamwork, while also continuing to support Suvoda's remote-first approach.

Iasi, the third largest city in Romania, is known as a vibrant academic center, boasting five public universities and approximately 60,000 students. Iasi also is a major hub for the IT sector, hosting prominent multinational companies like Amazon, Oracle, Xerox, and Accenture. With its enticing blend of cultural heritage and technological advancement, the city serves as an attractive destination for skilled professionals seeking a fulfilling career and Suvoda aims to tap into this talent pool to fuel its continued growth and innovation.

"Our goal with the Iasi office is to continue to foster productivity and innovation without boundaries. Whether our employees choose to work from our Bucharest office, the new Iasi location, or remotely, Suvoda is able to foster a connected community that recognizes our team members and rewards innovation," said Tudor Cozac, director of software engineering at Suvoda Romania. "As Suvoda's presence in Romania continues to grow, this new office helps us deliver on our commitment to nurture an environment of collaboration and belonging."

About Suvoda

Suvoda is a global clinical trial technology company specializing in complex, life-sustaining studies in therapeutic areas like oncology, central nervous system (CNS), and rare disease. Founded in 2013 by experts in eClinical technologies, Suvoda empowers clinical trial professionals to manage the most urgent moments in the most urgent trials through advanced software solutions delivered on a single platform. Headquartered outside Philadelphia, Suvoda also maintains offices in Portland, OR, Barcelona, Spain, Bucharest and Iasi, Romania, and Tokyo, Japan. The company's Net Promoter Score (NPS) consistently exceeds the technology industry average, contributing to the company being selected by trial sponsors and CROs to support more than 1,000 trials across 80 countries. To learn more, visit suvoda.com. Follow Suvoda on LinkedIn.

For information contact:

Mara Conklin, (847) 340-6823

mconklin@teamclarus.com

Kathy Zoeller, (312) 485-2422

kathy@mattsonpr.com

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1759317/Suvoda_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/suvoda-expands-its-presence-in-romania-with-the-opening-of-an-office-in-iai-301924046.html
Tel Aviv-based electric grid technology firm poised to focus growth on US market with hires and Austin-based offices.

TEL AVIV, Israel, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Prisma Photonics, the dynamic, AI-driven startup that monitors large-scale infrastructure, such as power grids, announced today that it raised approximately $20M in a Series C round led by New York-based global private equity and venture capital firm Insight Partners, with participation from Elements, a Climatech fund, SE Ventures (Schneider Electric's venture capital arm), Future Energy Ventures (the venture capital investment and collaboration platform of E.ON), Chione Switzerland, and INcapital.

The investment will accelerate the company's break into the global power and renewable energy market while supporting its continued growth. This round brings the total funding raised by Prisma Photonics to over $50 million. The company's earlier investors include Israel Electric Corporation, Israel Natural Gas Lines, and i3 Equity Partners.

Prisma Photonics optical fiber sensing technology offers power transmission operators better ways to manage their grids. It allows them to maximize the electrical capacity of the current grid to increase the integration of renewable energy sources. Doing that, operators respond to new emerging regulations such as FERC order 881 in the U.S. and similar. Real-time alerts on electrical faults and extreme weather conditions such as wildfires and icing offer better ways to retain grid resiliency in changing environments.

Prisma Photonics' solutions monitor infrastructure using the existing optical fibers covering great distances, of up to thousands of kilometers, without the need to install any sensors on the infrastructure itself. Events and alerts are reported in real time and within meters of accuracy.

"Grid congestion and the integration of renewable sources have become pressing challenges for power market operators such as our Tier-1 customers," states Dr. Eran Inbar, CEO of Prisma Photonics. "Our AI-driven technology not only adds a layer of resilience to the grid but also enables dynamic line rating capabilities, unlocking the full potential of existing infrastructure. This investment led by Insight Partners highlights the urgent need for innovative, scalable solutions in critical infrastructure management."

"In a rapidly accelerating power and energy sector, we see both the market necessity and vast potential for Prisma Photonics' solutions. Their unique blend of AI and engineering expertise addresses some of the most urgent challenges facing power operators today and their AI application can help solve consequential problems in infrastructure," said Ganesh Bell, Managing Director at Insight Partners. "It's a high-growth space, and doubling down on our investment in Prisma Photonics is not just strategic but imperative. We're thrilled to back Eran and his team as they redefine the future of energy infrastructure management."

"In a world grappling with climate imperatives, Elements fund aims to back those at the cutting edge of the energy and climate technologies.", says Nitsan Alon, Managing Partner at Elements Venture Capital. "Our investment in Prisma Photonics is more than financial. It's a testament to our belief in their capability to impact the industry significantly, and we are proud to have them as our first major investment."

Prisma Photonics optical fiber sensing technology covers several infrastructure sectors, including power, oil and gas pipelines, subsea infrastructure, railways, highways, and other long-range utilities. It allows operators to increase infrastructure operations' safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness while actively supporting utility operators in achieving their net-zero goals.

About Prisma Photonics

Prisma Photonics revolutionizes infrastructure monitoring by using optical fibers to monitor critical large-scale infrastructure like power grids and oil & gas pipelines for thousands of kilometers, eliminating the need for sensors.

Combining Hyper-Scan Fiber-Sensing technology with machine learning allows utility operators to reach environmental and renewable energy goals while keeping operational excellence in their journey to net-zero emissions.

Founded in 2017 by an expert team with a proven track record of building and scaling companies in the deep-tech domain

About Insight Partners

Insight Partners is a global software investor partnering with high-growth technology, software, and Internet startup and ScaleUp companies that are driving transformative change in their industries. As of December 31, 2022, the firm has over $75B in regulatory assets under management. Insight Partners has invested in more than 750 companies worldwide and has seen over 55 portfolio companies achieve an IPO. Headquartered in New York City, Insight has offices in London, Tel Aviv, and Palo Alto. Insight's mission is to find, fund, and work successfully with visionary executives, providing them with right-sized, right-time practical, hands-on software expertise along their growth journey, from their first investment to IPO. For more information on Insight and all its investments, visit insightpartners.com or follow us on X @insightpartners.

About Elements Fund

Elements is a leading Venture Capital fund, with a primary focus on startups that are driving ground-breaking solutions to combat climate change. Our mission is to support and nurture companies at the forefront of climate technology, particularly in the energy sector. Through our own network we hope to assist portfolio companies in scaling globally.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1742669/Prisma_Photonics_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ai-driven-grid-resilience-firm-prisma-photonics-secures-approximately-20-million-led-by-insight-partners-to-monitor-large-scale-critical-infrastructure-towards-net-zero-emissions-301926352.html
LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The explosive documentary - Lava Bombs: Truths Behind the Volcano - won an award for Best Cinematography in a documentary at the prestigious Madrid International Film Festival.

The dramatic Spanish and English language film from GeoTenerife and New Light Studio captures the emotional stories behind the crisis and the response to the September 19 2021 eruption of the volcano in Cumbre Vieja, La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain.

Lava Bombs reveals the stories behind the headlines and showcases the power of the major natural disaster through the voices of the local people impacted, emergency managers, scientists and politicians with spectacular aerial footage of the volcano in dramatic 4K.

The film has received many other accolades, including outstanding excellence at the Nature Without Borders International Film Festival and semi-finalist in the Dublin Movie Awards.

Sharon Backhouse, founder and Director of educational volcanic fieldwork specialists, GeoTenerife ( https://geotenerife.com ), was on the scene when the Tajogaite volcano erupted nearly two years ago. She mobilised her team to document events as they occurred, providing an intimate, authentic and intense record.

Scottish-based film director Alexander Whittle quickly arrived in La Palma and drove the narrative, interpreting numerous contributing film records through the eyes of a big screen director.

Film participant Jaime Salvador Diaz Pacheco, Assistant Professor, Physical Geography, University of La Laguna (ULL) and GEORIESGOS (GEORISKS) Researcher said, "The stories behind and beyond the volcano need to be told. Lava Bombs does this from a social perspective. It transports you to La Palma at the end of 2021 during the latest volcanic event in the Canary Islands that made international headlines. The documentary takes you deep into how everyone felt before, during and after this violent episode. This is a great resource to improve our resilience to catastrophic natural disasters and inform disaster management around the globe."

The hour-long film is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime (Watch Lava Bombs Truths Behind The Volcano | Prime Video (amazon.co.uk)) and Google Play (Lava Bombs - Truths Behind The Volcano - Movies on Google Play).

About GeoTenerife

GeoTenerife is a UK and Spanish company. Sharon Backhouse said: "We were heartbroken when we witnessed what was happening in La Palma and feel the real impacts of the disaster have not been fully understood. We have spent two years documenting the eruption and its aftermath because we believe so many lessons can be learned, so people living in areas of volcanic risk can be helped better. And we self-financed the film ourselves, to ensure we could have complete freedom over the narrative.

"Our second documentary, Lava Bombs 2: The Reconstruction, is out soon. La Palma is struggling to recover from the violent catastrophe it suffered, and it's only when we tell real stories in the words of those directly affected that we understand the deep impact of what has happened. These films are our love letter to Palmeros, to make sure their voices are heard far and wide because headlines and promises are not enough: La Palma needs help."

GeoTenerife is a science company that organises tailor-made field trips for international universities and schools, based at its historic headquarters in Tenerife. They run innovative training camps for young scientists in collaboration with local, national and international experts and institutions. The GeoTenerife camps combine educational elements with hands-on work experience in some truly privileged environments including the Teide National Park. They offer fully funded scholarships for all their programmes and over the last decade have supported students from all over the world to train in the Canary Islands.

Further information: GeoTenerife website: https://geotenerife.com

Behind Lava Bombs is an ongoing scientific research project funded by GeoTenerife. VolcanoStories ( https://geotenerife.com/volcanostories ) is an open-access research initiative which brings together intimate testimonies, scientific research and educational resources relating to the 2021 eruption and captures regular updates on post-eruption life in La Palma. It includes 3D models of the volcano and lava flows and an interactive timeline of events. The project also fosters collaborations between GeoTenerife and local, national and international scientific institutions.

Lava Bombs film website: https://lavabombsfilm.com/

Lava Bombs Film Trailer: https://youtu.be/hoo0QmO4FZg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210360/GeoTenerife.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/geotenerife-lava-bombs-film-wins-best-cinematography-in-a-documentary-award-301926988.html
First OpenpARTy kicks off at ibis Styles Copenhagen

Orestad,

with guests invited to be "part of the art"

COPENHAGEN, Denmark, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ibis Styles, part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, is excited to launch its first OpenpARTy at ibis Styles Copenhagen Orestad on 28 September 2023. The colossal live event of collaborative digital art is designed to celebrate the creativity of the ibis Styles brand, its distinctive guest experiences, and unique lifestyle aesthetic. The OpenpARTy concept is part of the brand's global OpenToCreativity program, collaborating with arts & design communities to stir up energy and infuse each ibis Styles hotel with a one-of-a-kind vibe, nourishing the creative souls of its guests and showcasing the creative work of neighborhood artists. Soon in play at more than 40 ibis Styles hotels, OpentoCreativity and the OpenpARTy series are just getting started. With a global network of more than 650 hotels worldwide, ibis Styles ensures there is much more artistic creation yet to come.

Guests of the OpenpARTy at ibis Styles Copenhagen Orestad will unleash their artistic passions in a creative process of live-event digital art making. The work will be curated by one of Copenhagen's favorite street artists, Isaac Malakkai, admired for his work in physical and digital spaces, animations, and motion graphics. Whether they choose to meticulously prepare a digital submission that becomes part of the work's fabric, or simply stand within the projections of the unfolding work in progress, guests are welcome to become part of the art. The finished product will be minted as an NFT - jointly made and jointly owned - acting as a communal slice of Copenhagen's style.

"The OpenpARTy concept is one of the many distinctive ibis Styles experiences that guests will not find elsewhere. By engaging the public to co-create with local artists at our hotels, we are showing our support for artistic experimentation, authenticity, and self-expression, while inviting guests to truly become part of the art," said Marie-Agnes Froment, ibis Styles Brand Director, Accor. "Across our ibis Styles network, our OpenToCreativity program is pushing culture forwards, celebrating creativity, and unlocking access to a likeminded global community. For guests, our hotels open the door to local creative culture; for our talented neighbors, we provide space to meet, collaborate and showcase their artistic talents."

OpenpARTy @ Copenhagen

Copenhagen's edgiest artists, performers and tastemakers will vibe with ibis Styles guests, fans, and followers at the ibis Styles Copenhagen Orestad OpenpARTy on 28 September 2023, featuring @Malakkai, one of the top local street artists in Denmark. Sound will be provided by Danish DJ and producer Kasper Bjrke and DJ Prom Night. The hybrid event will be livestreamed on the ibis Styles Metaverse spatial gallery and the brand's social media networks (Instagram and TikTok) - sharing the OpenpARTy and its message of openness with ibis Styles' far-reaching global community.

*To access the Metaverse on your mobile phone, download the app Spatial.io on iPhone/iPad or Android.

Copenhagen was chosen as the first city to host an ibis Styles OpenpARTy, given its renowned arts community and cultural emphasis on avant-garde design. The city was recently designated as World Capital of Architecture for 2023 by the Director-General of UNESCO. More OpenpARTy events will follow at ibis Styles destinations across Europe, celebrating the talented artists and unique cultural scenes in each community.

"Art is inherently a collaboration between an artist and an audience. The ideas that a piece of art inspires are always a result of that conversation between creator and viewer, usually facing one other, in an almost oppositional way," said Isaac Malakkai aka @Malakkai. "ibis Styles is making it fresh by bringing the audience around to the artists' side, immersing them fully in the creative process, which is both challenging and exciting - and will truly reflect the colors, and voices, and wild perspectives that exist throughout the streets of Copenhagen."

Those wishing to attend the event are invited to sign up for the guest list here.

OpenToCreativity @ The World

The Copenhagen OpenpARTy is just one element of ibis Styles' OpenToCreativity global program. The program launched in 2022 with the OpenToCreators metaverse (the ibis Styles Spatial Gallery) and successful events in Seville and Bangkok. Participating hotels create original and unique artwork by partnering with a local creator or using our artificial intelligence process with MidJourney. Each hotel expresses its one-of-a-kind artwork across multiple touchpoints - such as room keys, art installations in the Social Hubs, and brand merchandising items in the hotel boutiques. The artwork is also minted as NFTs for guests' digital wallets as welcome gifts, displayed in the hotels, and archived in the ibis Styles Spatial Gallery. In addition, the hotels' Social Hubs offer a Perfect Photo Spot for selfie moments with the artwork to share on social media.

Above all, ibis Styles aims to attract forward-thinking creatives from the local community, creating a lively cultural mix with visiting hotel guests. Digital creation workshops, paint-and-sip nights, and opening night soirees of local artist exhibitions, are just a few ways ibis Styles hotels are delivering fun, edgy, and stimulating experiences. Many ibis Styles hotels also feature the work of local artists and artisans in ways relevant to their own market, with clothing, accessories, workshops, body positivity talks, fashion shows, collection launch parties, and tattoo or body art demos.

About ibis Styles

Creative design and a playful atmosphere are what travelers find when they stay with ibis Styles. With a unique design concept built around a precise theme and a confident, optimistic approach, ibis Styles hotels deliver simple, trendy and economical hospitality. The friendly staff delight in surprising guests with joyful little extras to make every stay feel personal and special. Couples, families, solo travelers and business guests are all welcomed warmly at more than 650 uniquely designed ibis Styles hotels across 50+ countries. ibis Styles is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,400 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL - Accor Live Limitless - a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

ibis.com | all.accor.com | group.accor.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210172/ibis_Styles_IBIS_STYLES_LAUNCHES_NEW__OPENPARTY_SERIES_ACROSS_EU.jpg

Press Contact: Gautier Rouquayrol, PR & Communications Senior Manager, Gautier.rouquayrol@accor.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ibis-styles-launches-new-openparty-series-across-europe-celebrating-creative-experiences-and-vibing-with-local-arts--culture-scenes-301927223.html
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / (TSX:NANO)(OTC PINK:NNOMF)(Frankfurt:LBMB)

Highlights:

Commencing shipment of samples for partners to validate tonne scale LFP in Q4.

Repeated One-Pot LFP trials demonstrates technology at commercial size reactors.

Accelerated retrofit of Candiac for continuous production of LFP.

200 tpa reactors installed and optimization underway.

Building pipeline of potential customers for LFP product orders.

Nano One Materials Corp. ("Nano One" or the "Company") is a clean technology company with patented processes for the production of lithium-ion battery cathode materials that enable secure and resilient supply chains by driving down cost, complexity, energy intensity, and environmental footprint. The Company is pleased to report that One-Pot trials over the past few months in the existing reactors at the Candiac plant have produced lithium iron phosphate (LFP) at commercial scale with performance results consistent to lab scale. Nano One has leapfrogged to full commercial size reactors and its LFP can be shipped to select customers in Q4 for evaluation. Additionally, the 200 tonne per annum (tpa) reactors have been installed and optimization is underway for scale-up.

"We are ready to send qualified LFP materials to our partners for evaluation at tonne scale from our commercial scale reactors." said Nano One's Chief Commercialization Officer Mr. Denis Geoffroy, "These reactors performing are an important milestone in our commercialization strategy, to provide tonne scale samples to strategic partners and boost the confidence in our technology's scalability. I am very proud of our team who achieved these results in a very short timeframe."

2,000 tpa Commercial Reactors [existing]:

Nano One has continued to optimize trials in the existing commercial scale reactors, reproducing lab and development results. This demonstrates the One-Pot process can scale to commercial volumes and advances the de-risking of the technology at commercial scale. This rapid advancement allows commercial scale LFP samples to be sent to qualified customers, ahead of schedule, for thorough evaluation and validation for the purposes of entering binding offtake agreements for both the existing Candiac plant and the first full commercial line to be built next door. Optimization will continue and the results have helped identify key processing parameters and will expedite the commercial scale-up process.

Successful repeatable LFP trials in the existing commercial scale reactors will lead to an accelerated refurbishment of the plant to automatize the use of the existing reactors for the One-Pot process. This will enable continuous production capabilities up to 2,000 tpa level toward the end of 2024.

200 tpa Pilot Reactors [new]:

In parallel, the team has continued to work on the reception, installation, and commissioning of the 200 tpa One-Pot reactors. These reactors will provide important information to improve the processes and support validation in a cost-effective manner as the Company continues to innovate. They also allow Nano One to have a baseline automated production capacity of 200 tpa, ready to deliver to customers once they have validated the product.

"The experience of our team has been invaluable in achieving these important milestones." said Alex Holmes, COO, "Working concurrently with both the 200 tpa reactors and existing commercial scale reactors has fast tracked our commercialization efforts. We are setting the foundation for growth that can secure market share and enhance shareholder value. This couldn't have been achieved without the unwavering dedication of our team and showcases the amazing talent we have at Nano One."

"Being ahead of schedule and producing high-quality LFP cathode material is what we needed to fast-track Nano One's progression to profitability." said Andrew Muckstadt, VP Business Development, "While attending The Battery Show in Novi Michigan this week, we are able to talk to select customers about taking orders and potentially supplying them with LFP for their business plans in the future. As major players are still determining their supply chain and partners, we are demonstrating we have a viable product that can be produced in North America and replicated around the world."

###

About Nano One

Nano One Materials Corp. (Nano One) is a clean technology company with a patented, scalable and low carbon intensity industrial process for the low-cost production of high-performance lithium-ion battery cathode materials. With strategic collaborations and partnerships, including automotive OEMs and strategic industry supply chain companies like BASF, Umicore and Rio Tinto. Nano One's technology is applicable to electric vehicles, energy storage, and consumer electronics, reducing costs and carbon intensity while improving environmental impact. The Company aims to pilot and demonstrate its technology as turn-key production solutions for license, joint venture, and independent production opportunities, leveraging Canadian talent and critical minerals for emerging markets in North America, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific region. Nano One has received funding from SDTC and the Governments of Canada and British Columbia.

For more information, please visit www.nanoone.ca

Company Contact:

Paul Guedes

info@nanoone.ca

(604) 420-2041

Cautionary Notes and Forward-looking Statements

Certain information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes but is not limited to: the Company's future business and strategies; industry demand; incurrence of costs; competitive conditions; general economic conditions; the intention to grow the business, operations, revenues and potential activities of the Company; the functions and intended benefits of Nano One's technology and products; the development of the Company's technology, supply chains and products; results of trials and optimization for scale up to commercial production; current and future collaboration engineering, and optimization research projects; plans for construction, scale-up and operation of a multi cathode piloting hub; the successful and timely commencement of a commercialization phase; successful validation of LFP products; prospective partnerships with customers and the anticipated benefits of the Company's partnerships; the purpose for expanding its facilities; and the acceleration and execution of the Company's plans - which are contingent on support and grants. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of terminology such as 'believe', 'expect', 'anticipate', 'plan', 'intend', 'continue', 'estimate', 'may', 'will', 'should', 'ongoing', 'target', 'goal', 'potential' or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the current opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made are not, and cannot be, a guarantee of future results or events. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general and global economic and regulatory changes; next steps and timely execution of the Company's business plans; the development of technology, supply chains, and plans for construction, scale-up, and operation of cathode production facilities; achievement of industrial scale piloting, demo commercial production and potential revenues; successful current or future collaborations that may happen with OEM's, miners or others; the execution of the Company's plans which are contingent on support and grants; the Company's ability to achieve its stated goals; the commercialization of the Company's technology and patents via license, joint venture and independent production; anticipated global demand and projected growth for LFP batteries; and other risk factors as identified in Nano One's MD&A and its Annual Information Form dated March 29, 2023, both for the year ended December 31, 2022, and in recent securities filings for the Company which are available at www.sedar.com. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that is incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: Nano One Materials Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783883/lfp-from-nano-ones-commercial-size-reactors-lead-to-fast-tracking-customer-samples
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Vancouver, B.C., Li-FT Power Ltd. (CSE: LIFT) (OTCQX: LIFFF) (FSE: WS0) ("LIFT" or the "Company") is pleased to report that diamond drilling has resumed at the Yellowknife Lithium Project. Drilling activities were suspended on August 15, 2023 due to wildfire activity near the city of Yellowknife. Drilling has resumed with one drill rig at the Echo target and will scale up to six drill rigs by September 16, 2023 which will continue into October. No damage to any samples, equipment, or infrastructure has been sustained during the evacuation.

Francis MacDonald, CEO of LIFT, comments, "We are relieved that the threat from wildfires in the vicinity of Yellowknife has decreased, and that residents and industry have been welcomed back to the area. We would like to commend front-line responders, essential workers, and the Indigenous, municipal, territorial, and federal governments for their efforts to resolve this very challenging situation and all residents who have been displaced for their tenacity and resilience during this difficult time. We are delighted to resume what has been a highly successful exploration program to date."

About LIFT

LIFT is a mineral exploration company engaged in the acquisition, exploration, and development of lithium pegmatite projects located in Canada. The Company's flagship project is the Yellowknife Lithium Project located in Northwest Territories, Canada. LIFT also holds three early-stage exploration properties in Quebec, Canada with excellent potential for the discovery of buried lithium pegmatites, as well as the Cali Project in Northwest Territories within the Little Nahanni Pegmatite Field.

For further information, please contact:

Francis MacDonald

Chief Executive Officer

Tel: + 1.604.609.6185

Email: info@li-ft.com

Website: www.li-ft.com

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements included in this press release constitute forward-looking information or statements (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), including those identified by the expressions "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "may", "should" and similar expressions to the extent they relate to the Company or its management. The forward-looking statements are not historical facts but reflect current expectations regarding future results or events. This press release contains forward looking statements. These forward-looking statements and information reflect management's current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the company with respect to the matter described in this new release.

Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, which are based on current expectations as of the date of this release and subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Additional information about these assumptions and risks and uncertainties is contained under "Risk Factors and Uncertainties" in the Company's latest annual information form filed on March 30, 2023, which is available under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca, and in other filings that the Company has made and may make with applicable securities authorities in the future. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made only as to the date of this press release and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. We caution investors not to place considerable reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180543
Off-Scale Mineralization at JR Zone Extended 25m Southward

Kelowna, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - F3 Uranium Corp (TSXV: FUU) (OTCQB: FUUF) ("F3" or "the Company") is pleased to announce results from thirteen holes of the ongoing summer drill program on the Patterson Lake North ("PLN") Property, including PLN23-095 2.6km south of the JR Zone testing the recently discovered A1B Shear Zone, which intersected anomalous radioactivity. Additionally, PLN23-093 was drilled 840m further to the south along strike and intersected intense alteration and dissolution in the sandstone and strongly deformed and clay altered basement rocks.

Concurrently at the JR Zone, PLN23-090 extended off-scale mineralization by 25m towards the south from PLN23-062 (see NR May 15, 2023). Drill hole PLN23-090 on line 120S intersected mineralization over a 14.0m interval, including 1.65m of high grade (>10,000 cps), of which 0.50m was off-scale radioactivity (>65,535 cps) between 240.00 and 240.50m. PLN23-097 on line 045S intersected mineralization over an 11.0m interval, including 2.69m of high grade (>10,000 cps), of which 0.25m was off-scale radioactivity (>65,535 cps) between 219.75m and 220.00m, resulting in a high grade dip extent of 52m on line 045S.

JR Zone drilling, as well as exploration drilling, continues with two diamond drills and one sonic drill. As a result of the recently over-subscribed private placement, grossing aggregate proceeds of C$20 Million in flow through funds (see NR September 12, 2023), and strong drilling results, the summer drill program will be further extended into late fall and consist of up to 54 drill holes totaling approximately 20,000m.

Raymond Ashley, President, commented:

"As the summer drilling program transitions into an expanded fall program, we are starting to focus on exploration drilling, with the goal of characterizing areas for more detailed follow-up drilling during 2024. The A1B EM conductor was first confirmed to correspond to a major shear zone with PLN23-078 (see NR August 14, 2023); PLN23-095 was drilled as a follow up, testing both the A1 and A1B shear zones on section. This resulted in the intersection of several additional shears ranging in thickness from 5 to 10 meters both between the A1 and A1B main shear zones, as well as beyond the main A1B shear where PLN23-095 intersected anomalous radioactivity at depth within the approximately 400m wide structural corridor. Drilling at the JR Zone continues as well, with some drill holes exploring the peripheral regions to the high grade mineralization, as well as expanding the high grade domains on lines 045S and 120S.

"PLN23-093 targeted the A1B main shear near the projected Athabasca Unconformity; due to significantly more sandstone than expected, the structure was overshot by approximately 100m. The intense sandstone alteration and dissolution was coupled with drill core loss encountered over a 140m interval, in line with the projection of the A1B shear, followed by strongly deformed and clay altered basement rocks. These are features associated with JR Zone mineralization on the A1 main shear zone that, coupled with the radioactivity intersected in PLN23-095, reinforce the potential for A1B to host uranium mineralization."

JR Zone Drilling Highlights:

PLN23-090 (line 120S):

14.0m composite mineralization from 231.5m - 248.50m, including 1.65m composite mineralization of >10,000 cps radioactivity between 239.20m - 245.20m including 0.50m off-scale radioactivity (> 65,535 cps) between 240.00m and 240.50m

composite mineralization from 231.5m - 248.50m, including

PLN23-097 (line 045S):

11.0m mineralization from 212.5m - 223.5m, including 2.69m composite mineralization of >10,000 cps radioactivity between 215.65m - 224.24m including 0.25m off-scale radioactivity (> 65,535 cps) between 219.75m and 220.00m

mineralization from 212.5m - 223.5m, including

Exploration Drilling Highlights:

PLN23-093 (line 3450S), A1B Shear Zone

75.0m cumulative core loss in Athabasca Sandstone between 140.0m and 287.0m Approximately 100m up-dip of the A1B Main Shear projection to the unconformity Indicative of large scale sandstone dissolution due to intense alteration above the projected A1B shear zone

cumulative core loss in Athabasca Sandstone between 140.0m and 287.0m

PLN23-095 (line 2610S), A1B Shear Zone

0.5m radioactivity of 300 cps from 610.00m to 610.50m First occurrence of anomalous radioactivity, approximately 100m past the main A1B shear zone within the 50m wide A1B shear zone complex

radioactivity of 300 cps from 610.00m to 610.50m

Table 1. Drill Hole Summary and Handheld Spectrometer Results

Collar Information * Hand-held Spectrometer Results On Mineralized Drillcore (>300 cps / >0.5m minimum) Athabasca Unconformity Depth (m) Total Drillhole Depth (m) Hole ID Section Line Easting Northing Elevation Az Dip From

(m) To

(m) Interval (m) Max CPS PLN23-087 435S 587983.0 6410421.8 531.5 54.2 -59.7 A1 MSZ exploration; no radioactivity >300 cps n/a 344 PLN23-088 060S 587640.5 6410626.1 543.9 53.8 -70.5 Deep A1 MSZ test; no radioactivity >300 cps 183.2 419 PLN23-089 300S 587849.0 6410449.7 527.2 45.8 -55.4 A1 MSZ exploration; no radioactivity >300 cps 149.0 320 PLN23-090 120S 587828.0 6410594.8 545.5 13.6 -60.5 231.50 232.00 0.50 550 188.0 368 232.00 232.50 0.50 6600 232.50 233.00 0.50 2900 233.00 233.50 0.50 4600 233.50 234.00 0.50 4300 234.00 234.50 0.50 6700 234.50 235.00 0.50 2100 235.00 235.50 0.50 1400 235.50 236.00 0.50 3200 236.00 236.50 0.50 920 236.50 237.00 0.50 860 237.00 237.50 0.50 <300 237.50 238.00 0.50 430 238.00 238.50 0.50 1400 238.50 239.00 0.50 770 239.00 239.20 0.20 9900 239.20 239.50 0.30 18700 239.50 239.65 0.15 12200 239.65 240.00 0.35 9800 240.00 240.50 0.50 >65535 240.50 241.00 0.50 40000 241.00 241.50 0.50 8700 241.50 242.00 0.50 750 245.00 245.20 0.20 16500 245.20 245.50 0.30 9700 245.50 246.50 1.00 <300 246.50 247.00 0.50 320 247.00 248.00 1.00 <300 248.00 248.50 0.50 460 PLN23-091 555S 588100.3 6410348.0 534.4 54.3 -60.0 A1 MSZ exploration; no radioactivity >300 cps 145.9 314 PLN23-092 060S 587806.5 6410746.2 546.1 54.9 -55.0 A1 MSZ exploration; no radioactivity >300 cps 208.2 299 PLN23-093 3450S 589796.7 6408001.6 540.0 53.6 -55.9 A1B MSZ exploration; no radioactivity >300 cps 374.4 578 PLN23-094 105S 587766.7 6410661.8 544.4 54.1 -59.2 231.00 231.50 0.50 410 203.1 305 231.50 233.50 2.00 <300 233.50 234.00 0.50 360 PLN23-095 2610S 589161.3 6408578.2 542.7 54.3 -50.5 610.00 610.50 0.50 300 n/a 680.8 PLN23-096 090S 587780.0 6410689.9 546.3 54.2 -61.1 221.00 221.50 0.50 710 194.0 302 PLN23-097 045S 587755.1 6410727.5 545.4 55.7 -59.8 212.50 213.00 0.50 330 203.2 296 213.00 213.50 0.50 1100 213.50 214.00 0.50 1100 214.00 214.50 0.50 840 214.50 215.00 0.50 1100 215.00 215.50 0.50 3800 215.50 215.65 0.15 8100 215.65 216.00 0.35 12600 216.00 216.50 0.50 22600 216.50 217.00 0.50 15000 217.00 217.50 0.50 25700 217.50 217.85 0.35 19600 217.85 218.00 0.15 3100 218.00 218.50 0.50 6400 218.50 219.00 0.50 2200 219.00 219.50 0.50 410 219.50 219.75 0.25 8200 219.75 220.00 0.25 >65535 220.00 220.50 0.50 4000 220.50 221.00 0.50 2400 221.00 221.50 0.50 4000 221.50 222.00 0.50 5600 222.00 222.24 0.24 14000 222.24 222.50 0.26 2200 222.50 223.00 0.50 1700 223.00 223.50 0.50 450 PLN23-098 120S 587766.3 6410642.8 544.5 54.4 -58.3 226.00 226.50 0.50 340 201.6 332 233.00 233.50 0.50 1300 233.50 234.00 0.50 460 PLN23-099 045S 587767.9 6410736.9 545.3 53.9 -60.2 210.00 210.50 0.50 300 194.3 302

Handheld spectrometer composite parameters:

1: Minimum Thickness of 0.5m

2: CPS Cut-Off of 300 counts per second

3: Maximum Internal Dilution of 2.0m

Natural gamma radiation in the drill core that is reported in this news release was measured in counts per second (cps) using a handheld Radiation Solutions RS-125 scintillometer. The Company considers greater than 300 cps on the handheld spectrometer as anomalous, >10,000 cps as high grade and greater than 65,535 cps as off-scale. The reader is cautioned that scintillometer readings are not directly or uniformly related to uranium grades of the rock sample measured and should be used only as a preliminary indication of the presence of radioactive materials.

All depth measurements reported are down-hole and true thickness are yet to be determined but the Company estimates true thickness of the reported intervals in this news release to be close to reported interval widths.

About Patterson Lake North:

The Company's 4,078-hectare 100% owned Patterson Lake North property (PLN) is located just within the south-western edge of the Athabasca Basin in proximity to Fission Uranium's Triple R and NexGen Energy's Arrow high-grade world class uranium deposits which is poised to become the next major area of development for new uranium operations in northern Saskatchewan. PLN is accessed by Provincial Highway 955, which transects the property, and the new JR Zone uranium discovery is located 23km northwest of Fission Uranium's Triple R deposit.

Qualified Person:

The technical information in this news release has been prepare in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101 and approved on behalf of the company by Raymond Ashley, P.Geo., President & COO of F3 Uranium Corp, a Qualified Person. Mr. Ashley has verified the data disclosed.

About F3 Uranium Corp.:

F3 Uranium is a uranium project generator and exploration company, focusing on projects in the Athabasca Basin, home to some of the world's largest high grade uranium discovery. F3 Uranium currently has 18 projects in the Athabasca Basin. Several of F3's projects are near large uranium discoveries including Triple R, Arrow and Hurricane.

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, including statements regarding the suitability of the Properties for mining exploration, future payments, issuance of shares and work commitment funds, entry into of a definitive option agreement respecting the Properties, are "forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company based on information currently available to it. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including those detailed from time to time in filings made by the Company with securities regulatory authorities, which may cause actual outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws.

The TSX Venture Exchange and the Canadian Securities Exchange have not reviewed, approved or disapproved the contents of this press release, and do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

F3 Uranium Corp.

750-1620 Dickson Avenue

Kelowna, BC V1Y9Y2

Contact Information

Investor Relations

Telephone: 778 484 8030

Email: ir@fission3corp.com

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Dev Randhawa"

Dev Randhawa, CEO

(See Plan Maps below and Cross Sections on the F3 Website at https://f3uranium.com/projects/athabasca-basin/pls-area-projects/pln-a1-discovery/ under the sections tab)

Figure 1. Patterson Lake North Summer 2023 Drill Program Update Map 1: Scintillometer Results

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8110/180584_08eb9667f477a816_003full.jpg

Figure 2. Patterson Lake North Summer 2023 Drill Program Update Map 2

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8110/180584_08eb9667f477a816_004full.jpg

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180584
Regulatory News:

TotalEnergies (Paris:TTE) (LSE:TTE) (NYSE:TTE) and Air Liquide have signed an agreement for the long-term supply of green and low carbon hydrogen to the TotalEnergies refining and petrochemical platform in Normandy. The project will contribute to the decarbonization of the Gonfrevillle site, reducing its CO2 emissions by up to 150,000 tons a year. This cooperation between Air Liquide and TotalEnergies is aligned with the two companies' shared commitment to contributing to decarbonize industrial operations in the Axe Seine corridor.

The project calls for the supply of 10,000 tons of green hydrogen per year to the TotalEnergies platform in Normandy and up to 5,000 tons per year of low carbon hydrogen starting from the second half of 2026. It is comprised of two integrated parts:

The production of green and low carbon hydrogen by the Normand'hy electrolyzer, which will be built and operated by Air Liquide, with a total electrical capacity of 200 MW. TotalEnergies will have access to half of this production capacity, corresponding to the amount of hydrogen supplied to its refinery.

TotalEnergies will supply around 700 GWh/year of renewable and low carbon power to the Air Liquide electrolyzer for half of its capacity, i.e. 100 MW, corresponding to the share of hydrogen delivered to the TotalEnergies refinery in Normandy.

"This partnership with Air Liquide is a new step in TotalEnergies' ambition to decarbonize the hydrogen used by its refineries in Europe by 2030. By supplying the electrolyzer with renewable electricity from solar and wind projects, TotalEnergies is making the most of its positioning as an integrated power supplier," said Bernard Pinatel, President Refining Chemicals.

"This Memorandum of Understanding with TotalEnergies illustrates our ability to offer concrete decarbonization solutions to our customers. Air Liquide Normand'Hy will contribute to the decarbonization trajectory of our assets; it is also in line with our commitment to accompany the industry and mobility sectors in their path to reducing their carbon footprint. Our collaboration with TotalEnergies also strengthens hydrogen development in Normandy. Supported by the French State and the European Union, the Air Liquide Normand'Hy project confirms our commitment to develop renewable and low-carbon hydrogen production by electrolysis technology at industrial scale." said Pascal Vinet, Executive Vice President and a member of Air Liquide's Executive Committee, supervising notably Europe Industries activities.

About TotalEnergies

TotalEnergies is a global multi-energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity. Our more than 100,000 employees are committed to energy that is ever more affordable, cleaner, more reliable and accessible to as many people as possible. Active in nearly 130 countries, TotalEnergies puts sustainable development in all its dimensions at the heart of its projects and operations to contribute to the well-being of people.

@TotalEnergiesTotalEnergiesTotalEnergiesTotalEnergies

Cautionary Note

The terms "TotalEnergies", "TotalEnergies company" or "Company" in this document are used to designate TotalEnergies SE and the consolidated entities that are directly or indirectly controlled by TotalEnergies SE. Likewise, the words "we", "us" and "our" may also be used to refer to these entities or to their employees. The entities in which TotalEnergies SE directly or indirectly owns a shareholding are separate legal entities. This document may contain forward-looking information and statements that are based on a number of economic data and assumptions made in a given economic, competitive and regulatory environment. They may prove to be inaccurate in the future and are subject to a number of risk factors. Neither TotalEnergies SE nor any of its subsidiaries assumes any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information or statement, objectives or trends contained in this document whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Information concerning risk factors, that may affect TotalEnergies' financial results or activities is provided in the most recent Universal Registration Document, the French-language version of which is filed by TotalEnergies SE with the French securities regulator Autorite des Marches Financiers (AMF), and in the Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914433722/en/

Contacts:

TotalEnergies

Media Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 99 l presse@totalenergies.com l @TotalEnergiesPR

Investor Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 46 l ir@totalenergies.com
Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Markel, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), announced it has hired an in-country leader and will open three new offices in Australia in September 2023. These offices, in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, will be led by Rory Morison, who has been appointed as managing director of Markel's Australia operation.

Markel Australia will focus on providing underwriting solutions to businesses that traditionally purchase insurance in the domestic Australian market. This approach will complement existing support through Markel's significant London capacity, as well as industry and product specialists from across its wholesale international business in London and Asia.

Demand is growing across Australia for specialty commercial insurance, particularly in casualty and financial lines, driven in part by the growth of the digital economy alongside traditional industries. Markel intends to introduce new products to the local market, including its leading Fintech and CommTech insurance solutions, designed to protect fast-growing technology businesses from a range of risks such as professional indemnity, general liability, directors and officers (D&O) liability, and cyber. Markel will also continue to support Australian brokers and commercial customers with its broad range of specialist insurance products.

Morison joins Markel from AXA XL where he has worked since 2002, most recently as head of long tail lines. He is a proven local leader in casualty and financial lines - a key initial focus area for Markel in Australia - and he combines this with a deep understanding of Lloyd's, having spent eight years in the London Market. This will ensure even closer connectivity with the existing underwriting support and capacity from London.

By establishing new offices, assembling an experienced leadership team under Morison, and ramping up its investment in local underwriting talent, Markel hopes to build on its long-standing commitment to the Australian market. A core foundation of Markel's international growth strategy is the commitment to strong local underwriting presence and capabilities. Having an appropriate on-the-ground presence means that underwriters can respond more quickly and adapt products to onshore clients' needs and the nuances of a particular risk environment. This is especially important given the speed at which many businesses operate today.

Christian Stobbs, managing director, Asia Pacific, at Markel, said: "Australia is the world's tenth largest insurance market, and it's growing. Specialist commercial insurance forms a significant portion of this premium. We know that local underwriters understand local conditions and are uniquely focused on the needs of local clients. By establishing a strong underwriting presence in Australia under Rory's leadership, we are well-positioned to serve our clients as part of the domestic market, raise our game, and further Markel's international vision."

Andrew McMellin, managing director of wholesale at Markel, added: "Markel has a solid track record of building businesses in international markets, having successfully established onshore operations in Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia over the past decade. In each case, we have committed to hiring high-quality talent and empowering them with underwriting and claims authority, underpinned by Markel's highly collaborative and entrepreneurial culture."

Rory Morison, managing director of Australia at Markel, said: "I am looking forward to leading the Markel team in Australia and expanding our presence in the local market. We see significant opportunity for Markel within Australia as businesses adjust to the changing landscape, including the rise of the digital economy, increased scrutiny on director liability, and a spate of high-profile cyber breaches. Markel's dedication to a strong local presence and on-the-ground capabilities will ensure that we are best placed to support our new and existing Australian brokers and customers."

About Markel

We are Markel, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we operate the Markel Specialty, Markel International, and Markel Global Reinsurance divisions, as well as State National, our portfolio protection and program services operations, and Nephila, our insurance-linked securities operations. Our broad array of capabilities and expertise allow us to create intelligent solutions for the most complex risk management needs. However, it is our people - and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients - that differentiates us worldwide.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2209902/Markel_Rory_Morison.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2090808/Markel_primary_logo_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/markel-strengthens-strategic-investment-in-australia-with-local-presence-and-leadership-301926963.html
LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The XRP Healthcare team has announced the launch of its revolutionary XRPH Mobile Wallet which is available to download now on App Store and Google Play.

The cutting-edge wallet is designed to provide users with an unparalleled level of control over their digital assets, prioritizing security, anonymity, and convenience.

Complete Control with Non-Custodial Security

The XRPH Wallet is a non-custodial wallet backed by the XRP Ledger. With this powerful combination, users can enjoy complete control over their wallets, ensuring that every transaction is not just safe and secure but also entirely anonymous.

Open-Source Code Encouraging Decentralization

XRP Healthcare's commitment to decentralization goes beyond just the wallet itself - they are proud to offer a license-free open-source code to the community, and by doing so encouraging the development of decentralized wallets, fostering innovation, and expanding the possibilities of the blockchain ecosystem.

Revolutionary XRPH Prescription Savings Card Integration

One of the most exciting features of the XRPH Wallet is the integration of the XRPH Prescription Savings Card. Users will have the opportunity to enjoy incredible savings with discounts of up to 80% on their prescriptions and medications, and the best part is, that these rewards go directly into the customers' wallet. This feature comes with unlimited use, ensuring that users can save on their healthcare expenses without limitations.

Earn XRPH Rewards with Every Use

The innovative XRPH Prescription Savings Card is not only about saving money; it's also about earning rewards. Customers will receive XRPH rewards every time their card is used at over 68,000 U.S.-based pharmacies, including renowned establishments like Walgreens, CVS, and Walmart - allowing every healthcare transaction to become an opportunity to accumulate valuable XRPH tokens which are paired with USDT on Bitrue, Bitmart and LBank, with more CEX exchange listings to be announced before December 2023.

Effortless Transaction Tracking on the XRP Ledger

The XRPH Wallet makes it effortless for users to monitor their transactions on the XRP Ledger. With a dedicated transactions page, you can easily keep track of your digital asset management on the XRP Ledger, ensuring complete transparency.

Multi-Currency Support for Global Accessibility

Having a community that spans the globe, the XRPH Wallet will allow users to view their wallet balance in multiple currencies, including USD, EUR, and GBP. This flexibility ensures that its wallet is accessible and user-friendly for everyone, regardless of their location.

A Glimpse into the Future: Decentralized Marketplace Connectivity

The XRPH Wallet is also poised to connect XRP Healthcare's forthcoming decentralized marketplace. This expansion will further enhance the utility of its wallet, allowing users to explore and participate in their decentralized ecosystem to purchase traditional and non-traditional medication and prescriptions - XRPH wallet will help to facilitate fast payments for medical services and treatments within its own developing eco-system which will include the acquisition of medical centres, pharmacies, and hospitals in on the African continent through its subsidiary XRP Healthcare Africa, which they announced earlier in the year.

XRPH Wallet Audit

Director of Technology Nico Westerdale who audited the XRPH Wallet said "I've completed testing/auditing the app with help from Lead Engineer Evan Brooks, and can certify that user authentication and transfers are all working as designed".

Nico has also worked on several high-profile projects including as Chief Technology Officer at IncentFit, a major player in the $61.95 Billion Dollar global corporate wellness market, he managed the development team in building and scaling it from the ideation stage toward its emergence as a global contender with corporate clients including the $11.3 Billion US Dollar Corning Inc, the University of Michigan, Magic Leap with an estimated Forbes valuation of $4.5 Billion US Dollars in 2016 and the $9.1 Billion US Dollar valued Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, a health insurance federation that provides health insurance in the United States to more than 106 million people. He worked closely with the CEO to transform business requirements into a flexible and customizable product that fulfilled over 200 corporate clients' diverse wellness benefit plan needs and went on to play a significant role at GoPuff as the Director of Technology.

During his tenure, he oversaw several key aspects of the company's technology and engineering teams, contributing to the company's impressive growth. Here's a summary of his accomplishments and responsibilities:

Team Expansion: Nico Westerdale was instrumental in scaling GoPuff's product and engineering teams from just 7 people to a much larger workforce of 200 individuals in just two years. This rapid team expansion reflects his ability to attract and manage talent.

Consumer-Facing Engineering: He directed the efforts of GoPuff's consumer-facing engineering teams. This includes managing the Mobile, Growth and Shopping, and Driver Experience teams. These teams likely worked on improving the user experience of the GoPuff platform, enhancing features, and optimizing the app for both customers and drivers.

Collaboration: Nico Westerdale collaborated with both local and offshore agencies, indicating a global approach to development and potentially expanding GoPuff's reach to new markets.

Architectural Roadmaps: He worked with the entire Engineering department to develop architectural roadmaps. These roadmaps likely outlined the technology and infrastructure strategies for GoPuff's microservices architecture, which was backed by cloud platforms like Azure and AWS. This shows his commitment to driving innovation and staying ahead in the technology space.

React Consumer Application: Nico Westerdale spearheaded the development of the next-generation technology, particularly a React-based consumer application. React is a popular JavaScript library for building user interfaces, and adopting it suggests a commitment to modern, responsive, and efficient software development as used in the creation and building of the XRPH Decentralized Mobile Wallet.

XRP Healthcare Founder Kain Roomes made this statement:

"I am thrilled to announce the launch and release of the XRPH Decentralized Wallet, a project that represents the incredible dedication and teamwork of our talented developers and contributors. This achievement marks a significant milestone in our ongoing mission to empower the XRP Ledger community. The XRPH Decentralized Wallet is designed to revolutionize how users interact with the XRP Ledger. It offers a seamless and secure way to send and receive funds quickly, safely, and efficiently. Our team has put in countless hours to ensure that this wallet not only meets but exceeds the high standards of security and usability that our community deserves. One of our key principles is openness, and I am proud to announce that the XRPH Decentralized Wallet will be open source. This means that other XRPL projects can leverage our codebase to build their own decentralized applications, further expanding the possibilities and innovations within the XRP Ledger ecosystem. I want to express my gratitude to everyone who has been a part of this journey. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and collaborative spirit of our team, and I am excited to see how the XRPH Decentralized Mobile Wallet will empower the XRPL community and drive the adoption of decentralized technologies. Together, we are shaping the future of finance on the XRP Ledger."

Business Development & Co-founder of XRP Healthcare Laban Roomes added:

"Today marks an important milestone for XRP Healthcare as we proudly unveil our XRPH decentralized Mobile wallet. This momentous occasion is the result of tireless dedication and the unwavering commitment of our exceptional team. At XRP Healthcare, our mission has always been to transform healthcare with an initial focus in East Africa, by leveraging innovative technologies. Our partnership with The Burnratty Investment Group through our subsidiary XRP Healthcare Africa to merge and acquire private healthcare facilities across Africa, testament to our commitment of expanding healthcare access and improving the quality of care, especially to those communities in need. The XRPH decentralized mobile wallet is a pivotal tool in this endeavour, and will facilitate seamless, secure, and efficient payments within our healthcare ecosystem, bridging the gap in financial transactions that often hinder healthcare accessibility. With the XRPH wallet, patients can easily make payments for medical services, and healthcare providers can receive their dues promptly, ensuring a sustainable healthcare infrastructure in Africa. Furthermore, this wallet extends its reach worldwide, enabling international payments and collaborations, and fostering a global network of healthcare services. This aligns perfectly with our vision of creating a connected, accessible, and efficient healthcare system that transcends borders. We are excited about the potential of the XRPH wallet to streamline financial transactions in healthcare and facilitate our ambitious expansion plans. Together, with our partners, we are not only changing the face of healthcare in Africa but also setting a precedent for healthcare innovation on a global scale. Thank you to our dedicated team, partners, and supporters who have been instrumental in reaching this milestone. We look forward to a future where healthcare is not just a service but a fundamental right accessible to all, regardless of geography."

About XRPH:

XRP Healthcare is the first Pharma and Healthcare platform to be built on the XRP Ledger, a pioneering blockchain project committed to transforming the healthcare industry through the power of decentralization and healthcare digital innovation.

With a focus on security, accessibility, and user empowerment, XRPH aims to provide cutting-edge solutions that enhance the healthcare experience for individuals around the world. To learn more, visit www.xrphealthcare.com

Disclaimer: This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Please conduct your own research before engaging in cryptocurrency-related activities.





Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210582/XRP.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1983109/XRP_Healthcare_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/introducing-the-xrp-healthcare-decentralized-mobile-wallet-empowering-users-with-unparalleled-control-savings-and-rewards-301927167.html
STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MasterExchange, a platform enabling individuals to invest in music in the form of royalty shares sold out its first offering in the song 'Sofia' by Alvaro Soler, sold by the co-producer T.I Jakke. This unprecedented feat underscores the platform's position at the forefront of innovative music investment opportunities in Europe.

'Sofia,' released on July 15th, 2016 has streamed over 2 billion streams across platforms and gone platinum eight times in Italy and two in Spain. Its steady stream of streams over the past seven years translates into an average historical yearly yield of over 10%, providing investors cash flow in the form of future music royalties.

"The response to this IMO has been overwhelming, showcasing the resounding appetite for music-based investments. Demand was so high that the offering was oversubscribed, attesting to the fan- and market appetite of investing in music." Alexander Fred-Ojala, CEO at MasterExchange.

As the offering was oversubscribed, for those who didn't secure shares in this IMO, the Exchange - the secondary market on MasterExchange - is an opportunity to buy shares traded between users. This platform allows users to buy and sell shares among themselves, fostering a dynamic and vibrant community of music enthusiasts and investors.

MasterExchange is now gearing up for several more releases and IMOs during the fall, and the team is truly excited about the music investment opportunities that they'll soon bring to the world!

For media inquiries, please reach out to:

press@masterexchange.com

+1 310 861 4560

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/22693/3834981/2294509.pdf Press Release (PDF) https://mb.cision.com/Public/22693/3834981/ac1d507007bbdb96_org.jpg MX desktop whitebg https://mb.cision.com/Public/22693/3834981/b9a161aab3fbe131_org.png MX desktop https://mb.cision.com/Public/22693/3834981/bb7e185d2e519c13_org.png MX mobile https://mb.cision.com/Public/22693/3834981/bf2e6af61b3117ba_org.jpg MX mobile whitebg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/music-trading-platform-masterexchange-sells-out-its-first-initial-music-offering-imo-301927432.html
New solution from Finastra combines real-time sanctions screening and AI-powered anti-money laundering transaction monitoring, for the US' FedNowSM Service and Europe's TIPS

LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Finastra, a global provider of financial software applications and marketplaces, today announced the launch of its new payment solution, Finastra Compliance as a Service on Microsoft Azure. The service includes Fincom's real-time AML (Anti-Money Laundering) transaction screening and ThetaRay's AI-powered transaction monitoring as a pre-integrated packaged solution with Finastra Payments To Go. The end-to-end solution, based on technology proven at many of the world's leading financial institutions, enables US and European banks to streamline and automate compliance processes to effectively deliver instant payments. The service will soon be integrated with Finastra Global PAYplus.

Finastra Compliance as a Service helps banks take advantage of, and comply with, a range of instant payment infrastructures, including the FedNow service in the US and TIPS in Europe, while mitigating the increased risks of financial crime. With real-time compliance screening by Fincom and real-time AI-powered transaction monitoring from ThetaRay, the service will allow financial institutions to accelerate business growth, increase risk coverage and reduce operational costs.

"The introduction of any new payment rail brings new risks, and especially when that rail operates in real-time," said Mike Vigue, Chief Product Officer, Payments at Finastra. "We are building on the success of Payments To Go for instant payments by providing accurate and efficient compliance capabilities at a reduced total cost of ownership. By pre-integrating Fincom and ThetaRay with our solutions, our customers will reduce the time and risks of launching instant payment services while benefiting from a new level of security, scalability and flexibility. Finastra is committed to helping banks keep pace with customer, industry and regulatory demands through payments innovation, bringing together our ecosystem of partners to deliver a best-of-breed service."

"By delivering relevant value-added payment risk solutions as a service, we will help banks to improve speed-to-market and ensure our customers stand to benefit from the ongoing evolution in enabling capabilities like AI and Machine Learning," added Radha Suvarna, Head of BaaS and Value-Added Payment Solutions at Finastra.

Payments To Go is an end-to-end SaaS payment processing solution that enables banks to deliver instant and flexible digital payments faster and more efficiently. Financial institutions can subscribe to the solution through Microsoft Azure Marketplace for convenient billing through one single invoice. Integrated with Finastra's Financial Messaging Gateway, Payments To Go provides frictionless, more affordable and direct access to the TIPS and FedNow networks, among others. Combined with specialist compliance services from Fincom and ThetaRay, Finastra Compliance as a Service harnesses the power of AI and ML to provide on-the-spot compliance checks for optimal operational efficiency for instant payments.

To learn more, visit Finastra at Sibos booth C31.

About Finastra

Finastra is a global provider of financial software applications and marketplaces, and launched the leading open platform for innovation, FusionFabric.cloud, in 2017. It serves institutions of all sizes, providing award-winning solutions and services across Lending, Payments, Treasury & Capital Markets and Retail & Digital Banking for banks to support direct banking relationships and grow through indirect channels, such as embedded finance and Banking as a Service. Its pioneering approach and commitment to open finance and collaboration is why it is trusted by over 8,000 institutions, including 40 of the world's top 50 banks. For more information, visit finastra.com.

About Fincom

Fincom offers the best AML Screening Solution and RTC platform to date, proven to reduce AML sanction screening operational cost by 90%. The solution is enriched by an intuitive case management system supporting all the banking verticals, e.g., FedNow, RTP, ACH, perpetual KYC, and increasing the compliance regime of financial institutions, ensuring no Missed Hits, and <2.4% alert rate in RTP sanctions screening.

Based on Fincom's patented Phonetic Fingerprint technology that enables matching names even when misspelled, in different formats, and multiple languages/alphabets. For more info, visit fincom.co.

About ThetaRay

ThetaRay's AI-powered SONAR transaction monitoring solution, based on "artificial intelligence intuition," allows banks and fintechs to expand their business opportunities and grow revenues through trusted and reliable cross-border payments. The groundbreaking solution also improves customer satisfaction, reduces compliance costs, and increases risk coverage. Financial organizations that rely on highly heterogeneous and complex ecosystems benefit greatly from ThetaRay's unmatchable low false positive and high detection rates. For more information, visit thetaray.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/finastra-launches-compliance-as-a-service-to-help-banks-combat-financial-crime-for-instant-payments-301926931.html
Mauve targets asset issuers that require compliance guarantees and controls, enabling secondary markets for on-chain Real World Assets, such as fixed income, Stablecoins, and more. It ushers in the age of on-chain finance.

Georgetown, Cayman Islands--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Today, Mauve, the first fully compliant non-custodial Exchange (DEX), has officially gone live. It introduces a unique platform designed for trading Compliant and Real World Assets, prioritizing both trustless transactions and adherence to regulations. Mauve is the only non-custodial exchange that has been approved as a Virtual Asset Service Provider by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority. This marks a significant step towards the broader implementation of on-chain finance.

Tokenized assets are a multi-trillion-dollar opportunity but are difficult to trade in a decentralized, non-custodial environment. Asset issuers must meet stringent anti-money-laundering requirements and comply with national regulatory regimes making their offering incompatible with much of the permissionless DeFi infrastructure built today.

Mauve solves this problem by operating fully compliant pools that are highly customizable. Out of the box, pools are configured with the most advanced anti-money-laundering (AML) and sanctions checks, embedded directly on-chain. In addition, pool access can be further restricted by geographic jurisdiction and investor categories. For instance, Mauve is not currently available to US users due to ongoing regulatory uncertainty, and some pools are only accessible to accredited investors.

Co-Founder of Mauve, Markus Maier, explains, "We believe that the future of finance is on-chain. The foundation is our programmable compliance infrastructure, Violet, which we purpose-built for the needs of RWA issuers and institutional buyers. The result is Mauve, a DEX uniquely positioned as the primary liquidity venue for compliant asset trading on-chain."

Mauve's trading pairs revolve around assets that have robust institutional demand and, thus, compliance requirements. For instance, Mauve will offer Coinbase's cbETH and Alluvial's lsETH, two liquid staking tokens that are fully AML compliant. Moreover, Mauve offers Circle's USDC and EuroCoin, two stablecoins fully backed by the fiat equivalent. More trading pairs will launch in the upcoming months with a heavy focus on supporting issuers of tokenized real-world assets like treasury bills, credit, and bonds.

"We are thrilled to partner with the biggest real-world asset issuers on their journey to evolve DeFi. The industry has been waiting for a systemic solution like Mauve, which incorporates compliance but does not give up on composability. Anyone can integrate with Violet compliance infrastructure and automatically gain access to Mauve as an exchange primitive. We cannot wait for what the industry will build on top of it," says Philipp Banhardt, co-founder of Mauve.

"Despite the potential unlock in capital integrity, efficiency, and automation, it is not predestined that large parts of our financial market structure move on-chain over time," said Sean Lippel, General Partner at FinTech Collective. "Mauve / Violet solves the critical missing link by establishing a modular identity and compliance infrastructure layer that finally makes it feasible for global enterprises and institutions to partake in the benefits of decentralized finance."

For more information about Violet and the launch of Mauve, please visit: https://mauve.org/.

Markus Maier

markus@mauve.org

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180471
Ryan, a leading global tax services and software provider, has been recognised as one of the UK's Best Workplaces in the Financial Services and Insurance sector by Great Place To Work

A notable development this year is the introduction of this new award category based on the sector for UK companies. The accolade is bestowed upon companies that have prominently set themselves apart by creating exceptional workplace environments that positively impact people and communities worldwide.

"We are proud to be named as one of the Best Workplaces in the Financial Services and Insurance sector in the UK. This recognition highlights our continued efforts to create a workplace culture that is inclusive and welcoming," said Ryan Chairman and CEO G. Brint Ryan.

"For Ryan to be included in this sector-specific ranking is a testament to the efforts we've made to create a workplace that celebrates the well-being of our team members and supports their development and growth," said Ryan President of European and Asia-Pacific Operations Jon C. Sweet. "This accolade reflects our unwavering commitment to progress as we continue to grow, and we take pride in knowing that we are building an exceptional workplace environment for our team, which positively impacts the clients we serve."

Ryan ranked 33rd in the Medium Organisation category on this year's UK's Best Workplaces list, marking four consecutive years of this achievement. Survey results indicated that 94% of Ryan's team members believe it is a "Great Place To Work," averaging 91% in individual categories, including credibility, integrity, pride, and respect, to name a few. Furthermore, 2023 marked the first year Ryan met the medium size organisation criteria in the UK, following the strategic acquisitions of Catax Access2Funding and Granted Consultancy after ranking number one in the Small Organisation category for two consecutive years.

The Best Workplaces in Financial Services and Insurance award is based on an analysis of survey responses from more than 176,000 employees from Great Place To Work Certifiedcompanies. Great Place To Work conducts rigorous evaluations of team member survey responses alongside Culture Audit submissions from leaders at each company. These data insights are then used to compare the effectiveness of companies' team member value propositions with the actual culture experienced by their team members. Companies achieving exceptionally high scores following this evaluation receive the Best Workplaces status.

The full list of winners can be found here.

About Great Place To Work

Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture. Since 1992, it has surveyed more than 100 million employees around the world and used those deep insights to define what makes a great workplace: trust. Companies are assessed on how well they are creating a great employee experience with the recognition granted to organisations that champion an inclusive and impact-driven culture. For more information, visit www.greatplacetowork.co.uk

About Ryan

Ryan, an award-winning global tax services and software provider, is the largest Firm in the world dedicated exclusively to business taxes. The Firm provides an integrated suite of international tax services on a multijurisdictional basis, including cost management, compliance, consulting, technology and transformation, and innovation funding. Ryan is an 11-time recipient of the International Service Excellence Award from the Customer Service Institute of America (CSIA) for its commitment to world-class client service. Empowered by the dynamic myRyan work environment, which is widely recognised as the most innovative in the tax services industry, Ryan's multidisciplinary team of more than 4,100 professionals and associates serves over 21,000 clients in more than 60 countries, including many of the world's most prominent Global 5000 companies. More information about Ryan can be found at ryan.com/europe. "Ryan" and "Firm" refer to the global organisational network and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ryan International, each of which is a separate legal entity.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914694160/en/

Contacts:

Stacey Underwood

Senior Manager, Content, Communications, and Public Relations

Ryan

+1 972.934.0022

stacey.underwood@ryan.com
CoworkingNearMe.com is a new premier Global Directory for Coworking Spaces.

Coogee, Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Startups NearMe Announces the launch of a New Website: https://coworkingnearme.com which forms part of their Startup Marketing Platform.

Startups Near Me Announces New Website Launch: CoworkingNearMe.com

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/179822_55dc5d18d4d81988_001full.jpg

As global work dynamics continually evolve, Coworking Spaces have taken center stage, reflecting a transformative change in how modern professionals collaborate and operate. Responding to this surge in demand, and recognizing the need to amplify the digital footprint of coworking environments, the launch of CoworkingNearMe.com is announced. This platform emerges as an all-encompassing online directory that centralizes Coworking Spaces from around the world. Finding a Coworking Space Nearby is going to be much easier for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and startups.

CoworkingNearMe.com is more than just a platform of Coworking Space listings. It provides a realm of opportunities for Coworking Space operators and providers. Coworking Spaces can boost their online profile by presenting their coworking environment to an international community actively searching for collaborative workspace solutions. They can highlight their distinct features by using detailed descriptions, captivating photographs, showcases and videos. They can engage with a targeted demographic, as this new platform is a hub for startups, freelancers, remote teams, and corporations scouting for the quintessential coworking backdrop.

For those in pursuit of the ideal workspace, CoworkingNearMe.com aims to provide an effortless Global discovery of Coworking Spaces. With extensive Global listings from bustling metropolitan areas, like London and Mumbai, to quieter locales, like Reykjavik and Queenstown, those interested may discover Coworking Spaces that fit varied requirements. The new website provides intuitive Navigation and Search with enhanced filters and systematic categorizations to ensure that the right space is found without hassle. Users can also stay Informed with access to a wealth of insights, in-depth articles, and emerging trends in the coworking domain, ensuring every decision is backed by comprehensive information.

The visionaries behind CoworkingNearMe.com believe that today's professionals, be they freelancers or startups, yearn for a blend of flexibility and an environment conducive to growth. Coworking establishments cater to this very demand. Through CoworkingNearMe.com, the bridge between these establishments and their potential patrons is strengthened, streamlining the discovery process and showcasing the richness of each space.

Crafted by a consortium of digital enthusiasts, remote work advocates, and champions of coworking culture, CoworkingNearMe.com stands as a beacon in the digital world, narrowing the divide between coworking venues and their seekers. With the mission to enhance the online prominence of coworking locales globally, this platform is an amalgamation of vast listings, user interaction, and cutting-edge industry knowledge.

Coworking Spaces can claim or list their space here: https://www.coworkingnearme.com/join

Contact Info:

Name: Don Bradford

Email: don@startupsnearme.com

Organization: Startups Near Me

Address: 2a Vicar Street Suite 17, SHOP 13, Coogee, NSW 2034, Australia

Website: https://startupsnearme.com/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/179822
New global study reflects responses from over 1,000 senior banking leaders and more than 12,000 consumers regarding their priorities and identifies significant disconnects

70% of banking executives indicate that embedded finance is either core or complementary to their business strategy, yet only 20% currently offer embedded finance solutions

Ecosystem privacy and security challenges cited as top two barriers to innovation

ARMONK, N.Y. and FRANKFURT, Germany, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The IBM (NYSE: IBM) Institute for Business Value (IBV), in collaboration with the Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN) and Red Hat, today released findings from a new global study that reveals significant gaps between the stated priorities of surveyed banking executives and the customers they serve. The research examines how customers engage with the digital world and how banks invest in embedded finance to become part of the financial journey consumers experience on their platforms of choice.

Embedded Finance: Creating the Everywhere, Everyday Bank details findings from the responses of over 1,000 banking industry leaders and more than 12,000 consumers across five continents.

Embedded finance is the integration of financial products and solutions within the customer journey of non-financial services organizations in ways that help eliminate friction, and consequently, enrich the customer experience. Over 70% of the industry executives surveyed indicate that embedded finance is either core or complementary to their business strategies. Yet only 20% said they currently offer embedded finance solutions.

"Banks are facing a double whammy of challenges with pressure coming from non-traditional competitors such as the big techfins that have set new standards for customer expectations and are eager to deepen those relationships and from regulators pushing for open banking standards to level the playing field and drive more competition," said Shanker Ramamurthy, Global Managing Partner Banking & Financial Markets, IBM Consulting. "Establishing a modern hybrid cloud architecture that enables easy access to data across the enterprise, the ability to leverage the potential of emerging technologies such as generative AI, and participation in a robust ecosystem of partners is paramount to a successful banking strategy in today's industry."

While 80% of all consumers surveyed currently prefer to deposit their salary and keep their savings in traditional banks, 16% of respondents globally are already comfortable embracing the full digital experience with branchless institutions. Many consumers are seeking a higher level of engagement from their financial institutions with 79% of younger respondents being open to receiving insights on their better ways to save and 75% being open to guidance on investing.

Both banking leaders and consumers cited security as their most important priorities but banking leaders overestimated the importance of peer-to-peer payments and buy now pay later (BNPL) compared to priorities cited by consumers who designated good customer experience as their second highest preference, followed by mobile wallet functionality and rewards respectively.

Based on the study, gaps in technology infrastructure modernization, lack of application programming interface (API) standards and the portion of resources devoted to privacy and security are slowing progress toward realizing the business opportunities associated with embedded finance platforms and stand to impede the potential of exponential technologies, such as generative AI.

"It has never been more critical for banks to focus on how financial institutions can increase their competitive edge and improve the experience they provide their customers. The findings from the research show just how much work banks have to do before they can achieve this," said Hans Tesselaar, Executive Director, BIAN. "We know from the work we're doing with our members, however, that before they implement real changes to their service offerings, they must first overcome the obstacles caused by a lack of technical standards and adopt a coreless banking approach to transformation. This will help the industry benefit from each and every technological development to create the bank of the future."

The full report is available to download here.

The IBM Institute for Business Value, IBM's thought leadership think tank, combines global research and performance data with expertise from industry thinkers and leading academics to deliver insights that make business leaders smarter. For more world-class thought leadership, visit: www.ibm.com/ibv

About IBM

IBM is a leading provider of enterprise AI, hybrid cloud architecture, security and ESG insights to the global financial services sector. Its deep industry expertise, extensive portfolio of services and solutions, and its robust ecosystem of fintech partners, empower collaboration, innovation, and creation with clients. As a trusted partner to banks, insurers, capital markets and payments providers, IBM guides financial institutions on all stages of their digital transformation journeys through IBM Consulting and delivers the proven infrastructure, software and services they need through IBM Technology. For more information, visit www.ibm.com/industries/financial-services.

About BIAN

Established in 2008, the Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN) is an independent, member-owned, not-for-profit association, designed to build and promote a common architectural framework for banking interoperability issues. BIANs goal is to define operability and "ready to use" definitions for IT services in the banking industry.

The community of over 80 members focuses on creating a standard banking services landscape while ensuring consistent service definitions, levels of detail and boundaries. This will help banks to achieve a reduction of integration costs and take advantage of a micro services architecture.

Financial institutions, software vendors, consultancies and system integrators, along with technology partners, are invited to join the association and play a collaborative role with other industry leaders in defining, building and implementing next-generation banking platforms.

Media Contacts

IBM

Mary Ellen Higgins

maryellen.higgins@ibm.com

781.789.1911

BIAN

Olivia Rashid, Hotwire

olivia.rashid@hotwireglobal.com

020 8875 4450

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/95470/ibm_logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/new-study-reveals-banks-struggle-to-achieve-priorities-meet-customer-expectations-hampered-by-technology-modernization-challenges-and-lack-of-industry-standards-301927120.html
Software manufacturer presents solutions for accounts payable invoice automation (APIA) and procurement, and informs visitors about international e-invoicing, portal solutions and ViDA

The topic of e-invoicing is of equal importance to finance and IT. The E-Invoicing Conference held on 24 October, 2023 in Brussels specifically addresses the needs of these departments. The event, which will take place in hybrid format, will provide comprehensive information on the use and legal requirements of e-invoicing and will give an overview of where Belgian B2B businesses stand as regards introducing this technology. As a conference day Bronze Sponsor, xSuite will present its solution for accounts payable invoice automation (on site), which is suitable for any SAP environment.

At the end of 2022, the European Commission published its proposal for a directive to modernize the VAT system in the EU (ViDA). The basic framework for the implementation of an invoice reporting system has thus also been established in Belgium. Visitors to the E-Invoicing Conference will learn what model is viable for exchanging B2B invoice data with tax authorities and how to identify and address technological hurdles when connecting to e-invoice portals. Moreover, visitors will be given ample opportunity to learn how to drive the further digitization of purchasing and procurement processes.

xSuite is an expert on electronic invoice processing in SAP, with a wealth of experience based on more of 800 projects completed to date. "We see ViDA as a strong impetus for further digitization in Belgium as it will give e-invoicing in B2B the decisive push in this country as well," explains Hans Willems, Managing Director of xSuite Benelux BV. "In projects, e-invoicing proves to be a game changer as it enables organizations to process and approve incoming invoices 100% digitally without any media discontinuities."

In Brussels, xSuite will explain what companies should pay particular attention to e-invoicing projects and how to connect invoice receipt with upstream processes in purchasing. The aim here is to link digital procurement and invoicing processes in a manner that creates an end-to-end procure-to-pay (P2P) scenario. The E-Invoicing Conference event program gives equal attention to e-procurement and electronic invoicing. Both disciplines aim to further digitize and optimize financial processes and procurement activities. The end result is an end-to-end digital workflow, a holistic approach to financial management and procurement that uses digital tools and processes to drive efficiency, control and cost savings.

Event information:

E-Invoicing Conference

24 October, 2023

Place: Conference Center BluePoint Brussels, A. Reyers Ln 80, 1030 Brussels

Information and registration: https://heliview.com/e-invoicing-belgium/

About xSuite

With offices in Europe, Asia, and the U.S., experience across industries and multiple SAP solutions to boot, xSuite is a top innovator in optimizing SAP-based P2P workflows, providing software and implementing solutions for over 1,300 clients. The company has become a trusted partner in modernizing AP systems and automating manual, paper-based processes.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914704708/en/

Contacts:

xSuite Benelux:

Hans Willems

Managing Director

xSuite Benelux BV

Phone +31 (43) 760 01-20

info.benelux@xsuite.com

www.xsuite.com
GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Volvo Trucks ramps up electric truck volumes and starts serial production of heavy battery electric trucks at the Ghent factory in Belgium. This means that electric Volvo trucks are now built in four factories - three in Europe and one in the US.

"I'm thrilled! The Ghent factory is the largest one in our network, so this is a very important milestone. Now even more transport companies can go electric with Volvo," says Roger Alm, President Volvo Trucks.



Three different electric models will be built in Ghent - the Volvo FH, the Volvo FM and the Volvo FMX Electric. These trucks can operate at a total weight of 44 tonnes* and can be adapted for a wide range of transport needs.

"Our trucks are much loved for their outstanding quality, safety, design, and driver comfort. It makes me very pleased that our customers can get all these benefits and, at the same time, transport goods without emitting any CO2," says Roger Alm.



The Ghent factory is the largest Volvo Trucks production site with a yearly capacity of around 45 000 trucks. The electric trucks are assembled on the same platform and line as the diesel and gas-powered trucks, in a production set-up that gives the factory a high flexibility when it comes to handling different variants and demands. The battery packs come from the recently opened battery assembly plant in Ghent, located right next to the production line.



First out with electric trucks

Ghent is the fourth Volvo Trucks factory to produce battery electric trucks. First out was Blainville in France, where Volvo started to build electric trucks for refuse handling and city distribution in 2019. One year later, the site in New River Valley, US, commenced serial production of the VNR Electric, designed for regional transport. Then, an important milestone was reached last year, when Volvo Trucks put their heaviest range into serial production at the Tuve plant in Sweden, as the first global manufacturer to do so.



So far Volvo Trucks has taken orders, including letters of intent to buy, for around 6 000 electric trucks in 42 countries on six continents.



"Just a few years ago, many thought it was impossible to electrify heavy truck transport. But we decided early on that electrification is our main path to zero emissions. Now we can offer an industry-leading range of purpose-built electric trucks, in commercial operation all around the world," says Roger Alm.



"However, for the big electric shift to happen, governments need to act now and offer incentive programs for those who invest in the new technology, increase capacity in the power grid and also introduce CO2 taxes, to make sustainable transport more competitive."

*Gross Combination Weight (GCW)

LINK to high-resolution images

Press images and films are available in the Volvo Trucks image and film gallery at http://images.volvotrucks.com. .

For more information, please contact:

Helena Lind

Media Relations Director, Volvo Trucks

helena.lind@volvo.com

+46 76 5536257

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/6667/3835012/2294646.pdf Serial production of electric trucks in Ghent https://news.cision.com/volvo-trucks/i/volvo-heavy-electric-truck-range-at-ghent-plant,c3215610 Volvo heavy electric truck range at Ghent plant https://news.cision.com/volvo-trucks/i/volvo-heavy-electric-truck,c3215611 Volvo heavy electric truck https://news.cision.com/volvo-trucks/i/aerial-photo-ghent-factory,c3215614 Aerial photo Ghent factory

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ramping-up-volvo-starts-serial-production-of-electric-trucks-in-ghent-301927672.html
Together the iconic duo and New Mexico's premier dispensary will spark a new era in cannabis in the Cactus State

ALBUQUERQUE, NM / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Igniting a joint venture that promises to blaze new trails in cannabis, Cheech and Chong's Cannabis Co. proudly announces their partnership with Dreamz Dispensary, an industry leader in New Mexico.





Cheech and Chong x Dreamz Dispensary

Cheech and Chong Cannabis Co. Announces Partnership with Dreamz Dispensary





One half of the legendary duo, Tommy Chong, shares, "Our partnership with Dreamz is all about making folks' lives better through cannabis. New Mexico deserves the best, and that's what we're here to offer."

Cheech Marin, adds, "Together with Dreamz Dispensary, we're weaving our story into the fabric of New Mexico. This partnership is about embracing and celebrating local culture."

Cheech and Chong achieved legendary status as a brand that embodies the spirit of cannabis culture, with their commitment to delivering premium, high-quality products earning them a devoted following worldwide.

Dreamz Dispensary, deeply rooted in the fabric of New Mexico, has garnered respect for its top-tier cannabis products and customer-centered approach. Their understanding of the local market dynamics, coupled with their strong distribution network, makes them the ideal partner for Cheech and Chong's Cannabis Co. Dreamz Dispensary shares the values of quality, innovation, and responsible consumption that are at the core of Cheech and Chong's Cannabis Co.

"While some celebrity brands just stick their label on products and call it a day, we're all about true partnerships," said Brooke Mangum, CMO of Cheech and Chong's Cannabis Co. "Our goal is simple: empower outstanding cultivators and retailers with the digital and social credibility they need to stand out against competitors and succeed."

John Fisher, CEO of Dreamz Dispensary, expressed, "We consider it both an honor and a privilege to represent the most iconic name in cannabis culture. Our Dreamz team is absolutely thrilled to introduce the Cheech and Chong brand in New Mexico."

With community enrichment at its core, Cheech and Chong's Cannabis Co. and Dreamz Dispensary are dedicated to providing the local community with premium cannabis experiences that resonate and uplift.

To find Cheech and Chong's Cannabis in a dispensary near you in New Mexico, visit dreamzcannabis.com

About Cheech and Chong's Cannabis Co.

Cheech and Chong are renowned names in the cannabis industry, recognized for their pioneering contributions and advocacy for responsible cannabis use. With a rich history and deep-rooted knowledge of cannabis culture, Cheech and Chong's Cannabis Co. is committed to providing high-quality cannabis products and promoting wellness for all.

Cheechandchong.com

About Dreamz Dispensary

Dreamz Dispensary is part of a vertically integrated cannabis operation in New Mexico. With over 12 dispensaries, cultivation, extraction, manufacturing, wholesale, and distribution throughout the state, Dreamz Dispensary is competing to be one of the top Cannabis operators in the region. Education, Innovation, and Compassion drive the team at Dreamz Dispensary, ensuring that patients and customers (Dreamerz) receive industry-leading care.

dreamzcannabis.com



Contact Information

Brooke Mangum

CMO, Cheech and Chong's Cannabis Co.

brooke@cheechandchong.com

John Fisher

CEO, Dreamz Dispensary

john@dreamzcannabis.com

SOURCE: Cheech and Chong Cannabis Co.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783853/cheech-and-chong-light-up-new-mexico-with-dreamz-dispensary
Spring and Summer geophysical and drilling programs in 2023 have significantly advanced the Storm Project on several fronts:

Sediment Hosted Copper Discovery

Discovery of multiple regional scale sediment hosted copper systems, as evidenced by intersections of what appears to be stratiform chalcocite (copper sulfide) mineralization as predicted by both the geological and geophysical models - the discovery has similarities to the world-class copper belts in Central Africa and Botswana

Confirmation of geophysical methods effective at targeting sediment-hosted copper mineralization: both gravity and deeper electromagnetic (EM) anomalies have been shown to be strongly associated with sulfide mineralization

Significant kilometre-scale historical gravity anomalies that conform to the predictive geological model remain untested and are priority targets for follow-up modern geophysical surveys this coming spring and drilling in summer 2024

New Near-Surface Copper Discoveries

76 metres (m) of visual heavily mineralized breccia to massive copper sulfide (chalcocite, bornite and chalcopyrite) at "Thunder" and 19m of strong visual copper sulfide mineralization at "Lightning Ridge"

Ground Truthing of "Tempest" Copper Gossans

Chalcocite, malachite and sphalerite at surface along 4km gossan trend, 40km south of Storm mineralization

Delineation Drilling and Near-Term Development Potential

Continuity of the near-surface copper mineralization confirmed in over 10,000m of Reverse Circulation (RC) and core drilling: 41m @ 4.18% Cu from 38m downhole, including 5m @ 24.28% Cu from 48m downhole (ST22-05) and 46m @ 2.2% Cu from 64m downhole, including 15.6m @ 4.2% Cu from 65m downhole (SM23-02) (all core lengths).

Maiden copper resources anticipated Q4 2023, with environmental, processing and metallurgical studies underway

American West has completed the exploration expenditure requirement to earn an 80% interest in the Storm Project

Assays are pending for 29 drill holes from the 2023 drill program - including those for the deep sediment hosted copper discovery holes as well as those from the Thunder and Lightning Ridge discoveries - with results expected over the coming weeks

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Aston Bay Holdings Ltd. (TSXV:BAY)(OTCQB:ATBHF) ("Aston Bay" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an interim summary of the spring and summer 2023 exploration programs at the Storm Copper Project ("Storm" or the "Project") on Somerset Island, Nunavut, Canada with the field component now concluded. The program was conducted by American West(as defined below), who is the operator of the Project. Aston Bay is also pleased to report that American West has successfully completed the minimum exploration expenditure required to earn an 80% undivided interest in the Project.

As previously disclosed, Aston Bay entered into an Option Agreement dated March 9, 2021 (the "Option Agreement") with American West Metals Limited and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Tornado Metals Ltd. (collectively, "American West") pursuant to which American West was granted an option (the "Option") to earn an 80% undivided interest in the Project by spending a minimum of CAD$10 million on qualifying exploration expenditures ("Expenditures"). The parties amended and restated the Option Agreement as of February 27, 2023 to facilitate American West potentially financing the Expenditures through flow-through shares but did not change the commercial agreement between the parties.

The Expenditures were completed during the 2023 drilling program and American West is expected to exercise the Option in accordance with the terms of the Option Agreement, as amended. Upon exercise of the Option, American West and Aston Bay will form an 80/20 unincorporated joint venture and enter into a joint venture agreement. Under such agreement, Aston Bay shall have a free carried interest until American West has made a decision to mine upon completion of a bankable feasibility study, meaning American West will be solely responsible for funding the joint venture until such decision is made. After such decision is made, Aston Bay will be diluted in the event it does not elect to contribute its proportionate share and its interest in the Project will be converted into a 2% net smelter returns royalty if its interest is diluted to below 10%.

"The highlights outlined above speak to the quality of the work completed by American West and to their commitment to the partnership," stated Thomas Ullrich, CEO of Aston Bay.

"In addition to the discoveries made this season, two developments are critical: we have both a confirmed predictive geological model, as well as geophysical methods that produce anomalies that can only be explained by sulfide mineralization. This combination is very powerful in exploration, already providing discoveries and, we anticipate, more to come.

"We believe we have tapped into a significant stratiform sediment hosted copper system at depth at Storm but have so far only grazed the edge. The deep holes drilled this season have intersected chalcocite and other copper sulfides, confirming the model, but we believe this may be just a hint of what is to come. The combination of the predictive geological model, known mineralogical zonation and proven geophysical methods will allow refinement of our drill targeting to get to the cores of these mineralized zones in future programs.

"We are very pleased that American West has so successfully advanced Storm in such a short time. It is no surprise, given the calibre of their leadership. We look forward to further advancement and additional discovery with our ongoing partnership. With no expenditures required by Aston Bay until a positive production decision, Storm offers excellent optionality with potentially significant upside for Aston Bay's shareholders."

Figure 1: Location and claims block of the Storm Project.

STORM PROJECT - AN EMERGING COPPER OPPORTUNITY WITH GLOBAL SIGNIFICANCE

The Storm Project is located in a Tier 1 mining district with nearby past-producing mines including the Polaris Zinc-Lead mine (22Mt @ 14.1% Zn, 4% Pb) and the Nanisivik Zinc-Lead-Silver mine (18Mt @ 9% Zn, 0.7% Pb, 35g/t Ag).

Storm is located approximately 20km from the coast with access to a deepwater bay and a designated shipping route, providing robust logistics. The land package at Storm comprises 219,257 hectares and hosts over 110km strike length of prospective stratigraphy, representing a rare, district-scale opportunity.

Exploration at Storm has focused on two clear strategies: exploring the sediment-hosted copper potential predicted by the geological model, as well as defining a maiden resource and expanding the footprint of the high-grade, near-surface copper mineralization.

A broad range of geophysics has been deployed - including high-resolution Electromagnetics (EM), ground gravity and ground magnetics surveys - to establish targets for both resource expansion and exploration drilling. Approximately 11,290m of RC and diamond drilling have been completed by American West for a total of 73 drill holes.

Geophysics has proven to be a very effective targeting tool with the discovery of the regional scale sediment-hosted copper system as well as with expansion of the footprint of the near-surface mineralization, including the discovery of the Thunder and Lightning Ridge deposits. The positive gravity and EM anomalies extend for tens of kilometres within the Storm tenure and highlight the potential size of the Storm copper system and the significant exploration potential.

Under the new joint venture agreement, Aston Bay and American West plan to increase both the exploration and resource development programs at Storm with a ramp-up of activities during 2024.

Figure 2: Strong copper sulfide (chalcocite - dark grey) breccia fill and veining in exploration diamond drill hole ST23-02 from approximately 358.2m downhole. This mineralization is interpreted to be of the sediment hosted style and is one of five drill holes that have intersected the same prospective unit to date.

EMERGING REGIONAL-SCALE SEDIMENT HOSTED COPPER SYSTEM

The exploration completed by American West Metals during the earn-in period has delivered the significant discovery of stratiform sediment hosted-style copper sulfide mineralization as predicted by the geological model (Figure 2). The discovery has built on the assumptions that the near-surface more structurally controlled copper mineralization may be associated with a deeper, and potentially much larger, stratiform and/or structurally controlled copper system.

Five deep diamond exploration drill holes have tested the deeper system to date, one completed in 2022 and four drilled during the 2023 season, all to test the deeper stratiform sediment hosted copper system, with each of the holes designed to test different geophysical and structural targets (Figure 3). The drill holes were widely spaced between 600m and 2km apart over approximately two square kilometres. Significantly, all drill holes have intersected visual copper sulfide mineralization, including chalcocite (assays are still pending for the 2023 drill holes). The copper mineralization and geology within the drill holes are highly similar and suggest that the stratigraphy of the deeper mineralized system is laterally very extensive and potentially represents a stratiform system.

Figure 3: Plan view of the Storm area showing the gravity data interpretation, near-surface mineralization footprint (yellow), major faults, and diamond deep drill hole locations.

The Storm area shows clear geological similarities to many of the world's major stratiform sediment-hosted copper systems, including the deposits of the Kalahari Copper Belt (Botswana) and Central African Copper Belt (DRC, Zambia). These copper deposits typically have metre scale thicknesses and kilometre scale strikes of the mineralized zones.

Building on the encouraging results to date, surface geophysics will be extended into the Tornado and Blizzard areas - which extend for 10km from the known Storm discoveries - to follow up and capture higher resolution data over existing gravity and EM anomalies (Figure 4). Further drilling will be designed to scope out the extent of the large, stratiform sediment-hosted copper system.

Figure 4: Map of the Storm and Tornado/Blizzard areas showing the ground gravity survey data over Storm (2023 survey) and Tornado/Blizzard (2015 survey), overlaying the regional airborne gravity survey data (2017 Falcon Survey).

TEMPEST COPPER- ZINC PROSPECT

The Tempest Prospect is located approximately 40 kilometres south of the known discoveries at Storm. The area hosts widespread surface gossans with assays up to 32% copper. The copper gossans were historically defined over 250m within an area of Storm-style stratigraphy proximal to Proterozoic basement.

Reconnaissance sampling, EM surveys and field mapping during the 2023 field season was aimed at expanding the understanding of the area. The work has now extended the strike of Tempest to over 4km (Figure 5), with sampling identifying numerous copper and zinc gossans along this prospective trend (assays are pending).

The nature and style of base metal mineralization at Tempest remains under investigation. An extensive geophysical and proposed drilling program is planned to test this prospective area during 2024.

Figure 5: Photo of the Tempest copper and zinc gossans looking north. The brown-red rust-coloured gossans are indicative of potential base metal mineralization below surface and can be traced for over 4km along strike. Aston Bay CEO, Tom Ullrich, is seen at the right of the photo for scale.

NEAR-SURFACE COPPER MINERALIZATION AND OPEN PIT MINING POTENTIAL

The near-surface, high-grade copper mineralization at Storm has been defined over an area of approximately 50 hectares and within six main copper zones (Figure 6).

Infill drilling has initially been focused on the 2750N, 2200N and 4100N Zones, where high-grade copper mineralization had been previously discovered. The drilling successfully confirmed the continuity of the copper mineralization within these zones, and significantly expanded the footprint to include at least two new discoveries this season - Thunder and Lightning Ridge (see Aston Bay August 8 and September 5, 2023 press releases)

Assays have confirmed the quality of the near-surface mineralization including 41m @ 4.18% Cu from 38m downhole, including 5m @ 24.28% Cu from 48m downhole (ST22-05) and 46m @ 2.2% Cu from 64m downhole, including 15.6m @ 4.2% Cu from 65m downhole (SM23-02).

The work completed to date highlights the potential of the known near-surface mineralization to underpin a potential low cost, open pit copper mining opportunity. Processing and metallurgical test work has shown that the high-grade copper mineralization is amenable to simple beneficiation techniques - with test work producing a direct shipping product grading more than 50% Cu. Further test work is currently underway to optimize the processes and to determine a definitive flow sheet.

Drilling proposed for 2024 will aim to further expand the footprint of the copper mineralization, particularly around the significant new discoveries at Thunder and Lightning Ridge, and along strike into the Tornado and Blizzard areas.

Figure 6: Plan view of the Storm Prospect showing the near-surface copper mineralization footprint (including the Thunder and Lightning Ridge discoveries) and drilling, overlaying regional geology. Stated drill hole intersections are all down hole length, and true width is expected to be 60% to 100% of stated length.

SEAL ZINC-SILVER DEPOSIT

The Seal Zinc-Silver Deposit is located approximately 25km to the west and within a different stratigraphic horizon than the Storm Copper deposits. Seal contains an inferred, high-grade zinc and silver resource of 1Mt @ 10.24% Zn, 46.5g/t Ag for 103Kt Zn and 1.5Moz Ag (NI 43-101 resource, see January 17, 2018 Aston Bay news release).

The quality of the mineralization is highlighted by drilling intersections including 14.4m @ 10.58% Zn, 28.7g/t Ag from 51.8m and 22.3m @ 23% Zn, 5.1g/t Ag from 101.5m. The deposit remains open at depth and potentially along strike.

Isotopic analyses of the zinc-silver mineralization at Seal have confirmed that the mineralization is potentially related to the Polaris Deposit (22Mt @ 14.1% Zn, 4% Pb) in terms of time and style of mineralization and that it forms part of a regional scale mineralization system (see Mathieu, et al. 2018 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oregeorev.2018.06.009). Zinc geochemical anomalies have been delineated along the belt and prospective stratigraphy up to 100km south of the Seal Deposit.

About the Storm Copper and Seal Zinc-Silver Projects, Nunavut

The Nunavut property consists of 173 contiguous mining claims covering an area of approximately 219,257 hectares on Somerset Island, Nunavut, Canada. The Storm Project comprises both the Storm Copper Project, a high-grade sediment-hosted copper discovery (intersections including 110m* @ 2.45% Cu from surface and 56.3m* @ 3.07% Cu from 12.2m) as well as the Seal Zinc Deposit (intersections including 14.4m* @ 10.58% Zn, 28.7g/t Ag from 51.8m and 22.3m* @ 23% Zn, 5.1g/t Ag from 101.5m). Additionally, there are numerous underexplored and undrilled targets within the 120-kilometre strike length of the mineralized trend, including the Tornado copper prospect where 10 grab samples yielded >1% Cu up to 32% Cu in gossans.

Storm Discovery and Historical Work

High-grade copper mineralization was discovered at Storm in the mid-1990s by Cominco geologists conducting regional zinc exploration around their then-producing Polaris lead-zinc mine. A massive chalcocite boulder found in a tributary of the Aston River in 1996 was traced to impressive surface exposures of broken chalcocite mineralization for hundreds of metres of surface strike length at what became named the 2750N, 2200N, and 3500N zones. Subsequent seasons of prospecting, geophysics and over 9,000 m of drilling into the early 2000s confirmed a significant amount of copper mineralization below the surface exposures as well as making the blind discovery of the 4100N Zone, a large area of copper mineralization with no surface exposure.

Following the merger of Cominco with Teck in 2001 and the closure of the Polaris Mine, the Storm claims were allowed to lapse in 2007. Commander Resources staked the property in 2008 and flew a helicopter-borne VTEM survey in 2011 but conducted no additional drilling. Aston Bay subsequently entered into an earn-in agreement with Commander and consolidated 100% ownership in 2015. Commander retains a 0.875% Gross Overriding Royalty in the area of the original Storm claims.

In 2016 Aston Bay entered into an earn-in agreement with BHP, who conducted a 2,000-station soil sampling program and drilled 1,951m of core in 12 diamond drill holes, yielding up to 16m* @ 3.1% Cu. BHP exited the agreement in 2017 and retains no residual interest in the project. Aston Bay conducted a property-wide airborne gravity gradiometry survey in 2017 and drilled 2,913m in nine core holes in the Storm area in 2018 yielding a best intercept of 1.5m* @ 4.39% Cu and 20.5m* @ 0.56% Cu.

Agreement with American West Metals

An earn-in agreement for the Storm and Seal properties was signed with American West Metals in March 2021. Under the terms of the agreement, an expenditure of C$10m will earn 80% ownership of the property for American West. As noted in this release, the expenditures were completed during the 2023 drilling program, and American West is expected to exercise the Option in accordance with the terms of the Option Agreement. Aston Bay is carried for all expenditures to the completion of a feasibility study and positive production decision. If Aston Bay chooses not to participate and is diluted below 10% ownership, the ownership converts to a 2% Net Smelter Royalty, half of which is purchasable by American West for C$5m at first production. Aston Bay received a cash payment of C$500,000 on signing.

Recent Work

American West completed a fixed loop electromagnetic (FLEM) ground geophysical survey in 2021 that yielded several new subsurface conductive anomalies. A total of 1,534m were drilled in 10 diamond drill holes in the 2022 season, yielding several impressive near-surface intercepts including 41m* @ 4.1% Cu as well as 68m of sulfide mineralization associated with a deeper conductive anomaly.

In April 2022, results of beneficiation studies demonstrated that a mineralized intercept grading 4% Cu from the 4100N area could be upgraded to a 54% Cu direct ship product using standard sorting technology. Further beneficiation studies are ongoing.

In April 2023, American West embarked on a spring delineation drilling program using a helicopter-portable RC drill rig as well as conducting gravity and moving loop electromagnetic (MLEM) ground geophysical programs. Results from the programs are in process and are released as they come available.

The summer 2023 program planned further delineation drilling of the near-surface high-grade copper zones to advance them toward maiden resource estimates by late 2023 or early 2024. Diamond drilling is planned to test new high-priority gravity targets and environmental baseline studies will be initiated.

*Stated drill hole intersections are all core length, and true width is expected to be 60% to 100% of core length.

QA/QC Protocols

The analytical work reported on herein was performed by ALS Global ("ALS"), Vancouver Canada. ALS is an ISO-IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015 accredited geoanalytical laboratory and is independent of Aston Bay Holdings Ltd., American West Metals Limited, and the QP. Drill core samples were subject to crushing at a minimum of 70% passing 2 mm, followed by pulverizing of a 250-gram split to 85% passing 75 microns. Samples were subject to 33 element geochemistry by four-acid digestion and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) to determine concentrations of copper, silver, lead, zinc, and other elements (ALS Method ME-ICP61a). Overlimit values for copper (>10%) and were analyzed via four-acid digestion and ICP-AES (ALS Method Cu-OG62).

Aston Bay Holdings Ltd. and American West Metals Limited followed industry standard procedures for the work carried out on the Storm Project, incorporating a quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) program. Blank, duplicate, and standard samples were inserted into the sample sequence and sent to the laboratory for analysis. No significant QA/QC issues were detected during review of the data. Aston Bay Holdings Ltd. and American West Metals Limited are not aware of any drilling, sampling, recovery, or other factors that could materially affect the accuracy or reliability of the data referred to herein.

Qualified Person

Michael Dufresne, M.Sc., P.Geol., P.Geo., is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this press release.

About Aston Bay Holdings

Aston Bay is a publicly traded mineral exploration company exploring for high-grade copper and gold deposits in Virginia, USA, and Nunavut, Canada. The Company is led by CEO Thomas Ullrich with exploration in Virginia directed by the Company's advisor, Don Taylor, the 2018 Thayer Lindsley Award winner for his discovery of the Taylor Pb-Zn-Ag Deposit in Arizona. The Company is currently exploring the high-grade Buckingham Gold Vein in central Virginia and is in advanced stages of negotiation on other lands with high-grade copper potential in the area.

The Company is 100% owner of the Storm Project property, which hosts the Storm Copper Project and the Seal Zinc Deposit and has been optioned to American West Metals Limited.

About American West Metals Limited

AMERICAN WEST METALS LIMITED (ASX: AW1) is an Australian clean energy mining company focused on growth through the discovery and development of major base metal mineral deposits in Tier 1 jurisdictions of North America. Our strategy is focused on developing mines that have a low-footprint and support the global energy transformation. Our portfolio of copper and zinc projects in Utah and Canada include significant existing resource inventories and high-grade mineralization that can generate robust mining proposals. Core to our approach is our commitment to the ethical extraction and processing of minerals and making a meaningful contribution to the communities where our projects are located.

Led by a highly experienced leadership team, our strategic initiatives lay the foundation for a sustainable business which aims to deliver high-multiplier returns on shareholder investment and economic benefits to all stakeholders.

For further information on American West, visit: www.americanwestmetals.com.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements made in this news release, including those regarding the exercise of the Option, entering into the joint venture and each party's interest in the Project pursuant to the agreement in respect of the joint venture, management objectives, forecasts, estimates, expectations, or predictions of the future may constitute "forward-looking statement", which can be identified by the use of conditional or future tenses or by the use of such verbs as "believe", "expect", "may", "will", "should", "estimate", "anticipate", "project", "plan", and words of similar import, including variations thereof and negative forms. This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect, as of the date of this press release, Aston Bay's expectations, estimates and projections about its operations, the mining industry and the economic environment in which it operates. Statements in this press release that are not supported by historical fact are forward-looking statements, meaning they involve risk, uncertainty and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although Aston Bay believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which apply only at the time of writing of this press release. Aston Bay disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by securities legislation.

For more information contact:

Thomas Ullrich, Chief Executive Officer

thomas.ullrich@astonbayholdings.com

(416) 456-3516

Sofia Harquail, IR and Corporate Development

sofia.harquail@astonbayholdings.com

(647) 821-1337

SOURCE: Aston Bay Holdings Ltd

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784010/aston-bay-and-american-west-metals-announce-field-season-summary-for-storm-copper-project-canada
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Sierra Madre Gold and Silver Ltd. (TSXV:SM)(OTCQX:SMDRF) ("Sierra Madre" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on its exploration activities at the 100% owned past-producing La Guitarra Silver-Gold Mine Complex ("La Guitarra") in Estado de Mexico, Mexico, 130 km southwest of Mexico City.

Beginning in February of this year, the company started a 2,000-scale geologic mapping program, first in the eastern portion of the Temascaltepec mining district and then progressing to the west side. This mapping program is the first-ever project-wide undertaking. It provides additional data for understanding the structural controls on the vein-hosted silver and gold mineralization.

Gregory K. Liller, Executive Chairman and Chief Operating Officer commented, "Since acquiring the La Guitarra property in March 2023, we have completed the first-ever district-wide mapping exercise of the Temascaltepec mining district. The data will provide valuable information as we work on interpreting the controls on mineralization, advance our understanding of project-scale systems and plan future drill programs in the Eastern and Western districts."

The company's mining concessions cover the entire Temascaltepec mining district and contain numerous Spanish Colonial, 19th, and early 20th-century mines.

District-Scale Mapping by Sierra Madre

To date, surface mapping has delineated nearly 53 km of mineralized quartz veins, breccias, and stockwork zones. Mapping in the Eastern district has delineated over 37.9 km of veining. The dominant strike direction of veining is to the northwest, accompanied by a second set of veins, known as antithetic structures, striking more easterly. Both groups of veins host gold and silver mineralization, with hundreds of old shafts, cross cuts, adits, and prospect pits having been located. Host rocks for the veins are metasediments and andesites. Approximately one-half of the area mapped thus far is covered by recent basalt flows, with the veins exposed in erosional windows (see Figure 1 below).

Mapping has been completed over a significant portion of the West district. Thus far, over 15 km of veins have been located at the surface. While the principal vein systems, Guitarra, Coloso, and Nazareno, have been exploited, the vein swarm north of Guitarra has yet to be drill tested despite having numerous old shafts, adits, and prospect pits (see Figure 2 below).

History of Temascaltepec District

The Temascaltepec district was one of the six most important silver districts in Mexico (New Spain) during the 1600s and 1700s, as evidenced by the Spanish crown appointing a special overseer to monitor activities in the district.

Mines, backed by European and American capital, were in operation during the late 1800's and early 1900's. Allan Nordstrom, in 1938, reported that the Rincon mine, in the easternmost part of the district, produced 281,642 tonnes at an average grade of 6.7 g/t gold and 860 g/t silver between 1926 and 1937. Vein width was between 2 to 5 meters.

Production between 1993 and 2018 came from the Guitarra, Coloso, and Nazareno mines, the focus of the company's production restart activities, with only limited exploration work completed outside of these areas. Previous operators LuisMin and Genco Resources drilled 76 drill holes in the East district, focusing primarily on the Santa Ana vein system. Drill results sufficiently encouraged Genco to start a production ramp in the Mina de Agua area. While First Majestic did no drilling, they followed up activities in the area, securing surface rights, completing an Environmental Impact Statement (MIA), and permitting a production center on the Santa Ana, Cascaras, and associated veins.

Next Steps

A surface and underground sampling program will commence as soon as the rainy season is over. The results of this program will provide information on the most favorable structural settings for silver and gold deposition. Results from this work will be used to plan exploration drilling programs in the East and West districts.

Figure 1: Eastern District Map

Figure 2: Western District Map

Extension of Subscription Receipts

Sierra Madre announces that, further to the Company's news release dated May 31, 2023 (the "May 31 News Release"), the Company has amended the terms of all 5,123,092 subscription receipts (each, a "Subscription Receipt") in order to extend the Escrow Release Conditions and Termination (as both terms are defined in the May 31 News Release) for an additional 30-day period.

Pursuant to the amended terms, each Subscription Receipt shall have met the Escrow Release Conditions and be eligible to, without the payment of any additional consideration, automatically convert into one common share in the capital of the Company upon the earlier of: (i) the holder of the Subscription Receipt receiving written notice from the Company of conversion; or (ii) October 15, 2023. Termination shall occur on the date that is three business days following the day on which the Escrow Release Conditions occur, which shall be no later than October 18, 2023. For additional information on the Subscription Receipts, refer to the May 31 News Release.

About Sierra Madre

Sierra Madre Gold & Silver (TSXV:SM), (OTCQX:SMDRF) is a precious metals development and exploration company, focused on evaluating the potential of restarting the La Guitarra Mine in the Temascaltepec mining district, Mexico, and the exploration and development of its Tepic and La Tigra properties in Nayarit, Mexico. The La Guitarra Mine is a permitted, past-producing underground mine which includes a 500 t/d processing facility that operated until mid-2018.

The +2,600 ha Tepic Project hosts low-sulphidation epithermal gold and silver mineralization with an existing historic resource. La Tigra, located 148 km north of Tepic, has been mined historically; Sierra Madres maiden 2022 drill program at the site intercepted shallow mineralization.

Sierra Madres management has played key roles for managing exploration and development of more than 22Moz gold and 600Moz silver in combined reserves and resources. Sierra Madres team of professionals has collectively raised over $1B for mining companies.

On behalf of the board of directors of Sierra Madre Gold and Silver Ltd.,

" Alexander Langer "

Alexander Langer

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

Contact:

investor@sierramadregoldandsilver.com

Sierra Madre Gold and Silver Best Practice

Sierra Madre is committed to best practice standards for all exploration and sampling activities. The Companys exploration programs have been conducted following CIM Exploration Best Practice Guidelines which are incorporated by reference in NI 43-101. Analytical quality assurance and quality control procedures include the systematic insertion of blanks, standards and duplicates into the sample strings. Samples are placed in sealed bags and shipped directly to Bureau Veritas Lab located in Durango, Mexico or ALS Chemex in Guadalajara, Mexico for 30 gram gold fire assay, Aqua Regia digestion for silver and multi-element analyses by four acid digestion.

Qualified Person

Mr. Gregory Smith, P. Geo, Director of Sierra Madre, is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, and has reviewed and approved the technical data and information contained in this news release. Mr. Smith has verified the technical and scientific data disclosed herein.

Cautionary Note

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

This press release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. The forward-looking statements herein are made as of the date of this press release only, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budgets", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "projects", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking information in this press release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the completion of the Transaction on the terms set out in the definitive agreement (or at all) and the ability of the Company to obtain requisite corporate and regulatory approvals for the Transaction, including but not limited to the approval of the Exchange, Mexican antitrust approval and other governmental approvals as currently anticipated.

In making the forward-looking statements included in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including that the Company will be able to receive all required regulatory approvals by the timelines currently anticipated (or at all); and that the Company will be able to complete the Transaction on the terms of the definitive agreement. Forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of the Company to control or predict, that may cause the Companys actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein, including, but not limited to, the risk that the Company is not able to complete Transaction on the terms set out in the definitive agreement (or at all) and the risk that the Company is unable to obtain requisite corporate and regulatory approvals, including but not limited to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Mexican antitrust approval and governmental approval as currently anticipated.

Such forward-looking information represents managements best judgment based on information currently available. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual future results may vary materially. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

SOURCE: Sierra Madre Gold and Silver

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783890/sierra-madre-provides-update-on-district-scale-exploration-at-la-guitarra-and-extension-to-subscription-receipts
Leading pharmatech unifies quality processes for greater efficiency, collaboration, and compliance

BARCELONA, Spain, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Veeva Systems (NYSE: VEEV) today announced that LTS LOHMANN Therapie-Systeme AG ("LTS"), a leading pharmaceutical technology company, is partnering with Veeva MedTech to advance its quality operations. LTS will use Veeva Vault QMS to improve process control and visibility, align global production sites, and increase audit readiness.

"As we continue to grow, we need a modern, scalable, and user-friendly quality management tool to harmonize and advance our quality processes across the organization," said Dr. Heike Barnikow-Bock, corporate vice president operations, quality projects and consulting, LTS. "With Veeva Vault QMS, we will strengthen oversight and GxP compliance while aligning with the quality requirements of our customers."

"Veeva's open collaboration and flexibility to meet our needs make it the perfect partner," said Christian Langer, corporate senior vice president of global quality at LTS. "The team's breadth of experience and focus on execution made completing this project in such a short amount of time possible."

With headquarters in Germany and four sites in North America, Europe, and Asia, LTS develops and manufactures drug delivery systems, such as transdermal patches, oral thin films, and wearable drug delivery devices. Vault QMS will help LTS manage and track quality processes, such as deviations, complaints, lab incidents, corrective and preventive actions, and change control. By improving its quality management processes, LTS can provide greater value to its partners and drive better patient outcomes, which aligns with the LTS purpose: "We CARE. We CREATE. We DELIVER."

"Veeva Vault QMS helps companies like LTS simplify quality processes for better efficiency while ensuring ongoing inspection readiness," said Patrik Brehm, director of quality strategy for Veeva MedTech in Europe. "Veeva is proud to partner with the team to help streamline its quality operations."

Veeva MedTech offers unified, connected cloud software solutions to help deliver medical devices and diagnostics to patients in need. It includes Veeva Vault products across research and development and commercial to help speed the total product development lifecycle for medtech companies.

Vault QMS is part of Vault Quality Suite, which brings together quality systems and processes on a single cloud platform to enable efficient quality management.

About Veeva Systems

Veeva is the global leader in cloud software for the life sciences industry. Committed to innovation, product excellence, and customer success, Veeva serves more than 1,000 customers, ranging from the world's largest biopharmaceutical companies to emerging biotechs. As a Public Benefit Corporation, Veeva is committed to balancing the interests of all stakeholders, including customers, employees, shareholders, and the industries it serves. For more information, visit veeva.com/eu.

Veeva Forward-looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements regarding Veeva's products and services and the expected results or benefits from use of our products and services. These statements are based on our current expectations. Actual results could differ materially from those provided in this release and we have no obligation to update such statements. There are numerous risks that have the potential to negatively impact our results, including the risks and uncertainties disclosed in our filing on Form 10-Q for the period ended July 31, 2023, which you can find here (a summary of risks which may impact our business can be found on pages 38 and 39), and in our subsequent SEC filings, which you can access at sec.gov.

Contact:

Jeremy Whittaker

Veeva Systems

+49-695-095-5486

jeremy.whittaker@veeva.com

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1488285/Veeva_Systems_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/lts-advances-quality-oversight-with-veeva-vault-qms-301926604.html
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Transocean Ltd. (RIG) announced a three-year award for the ultra-deepwater drillship Deepwater Aquila with a national oil company for work offshore Brazil. The contract represents approximately $486 million in firm backlog, excluding a mobilization fee. Transocean has also agreed to acquire the outstanding interests in Liquila Ventures Ltd., a company formed to acquire the Deepwater Aquila, from its joint venture partners. The company said it is exploring various debt financing alternatives to partially fund the costs associated with acquiring the rig from the shipyard and preparing for its contract in Brazil. Copyright(c) 2023 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
At the renowned InterTabac 2023 exhibition, held from September 14-16, FEELM, the world leading closed system solution provider, unveiled its latest innovation OS Vape in partnership with OS. It is the first time FEELM has co-exhibited with its local partner.

Since its inception in 1978, InterTabac has been recognized as the world's premier trade fair for tobacco products and smoking accessories. This distinguished gathering provides a platform for industry professionals to interact with top-tier representatives spanning retail, manufacturing, and service sectors. As testament to the evolving landscape of the tobacco world, in recent years, the spotlight has increasingly shone on brands from the rapidly expanding European vaping area.

FEELM's First Co-Exhibition

OS, recognized as a dominant force in Germany's shisha product market, ventured into the disposable vape industry. Seizing this opportunity, this co-exhibition represents a significant breakthrough for FEELM, emphasizing its commitment to innovative strategies in delivering comprehensive solutions to its clients.

A representative from the FEELM booth shared that collaborating with clients for exhibitions is a new strategy aimed at bolstering the client's brand presence in local markets. The representative further revealed that FEELM intends to continue this co-exhibition format at major global exhibitions, joining forces with clients from various regions in a collective march towards a global presence.

OS Vape with More Puff Counts and Premium Taste Consistency

Germany, celebrated for its beers bursting with hop aroma and refreshingly pure taste, is a nation where lively spirits indulge in robust drinking. Stepping into this vibrant culture, OS Vape introduced a disposable vaping solution that delivers an elevated puff count, cost-efficiency, and unmatched vapor consistency, promising German consumers a rich vaping experience reminiscent of their cherished beers.

Elevated by the FEELM Max ceramic coil technology, OS Vape has achieved a groundbreaking 800+ puffs. This represents an impressive 30%+ enhancement in puff count compared to other common disposable products, establishing a new standard under TPD compliance. Thus, OS Vape has distinguished itself as the pioneer in Germany to set this benchmark.

Beyond puff count, OS Vape offers an exceptional vapor and taste consistency of over 95%. These groundbreaking advancements have undoubtedly propelled the vaping industry to new zeniths. Additionally, the signature transparent e-liquid tank not only alleviates e-liquid concerns but also adds a touch of aesthetic sophistication.

Authoritative Institution-Certified 800-Puff Report

Given the debut of the 800+ puff disposable product in Germany, there was keen interest in the technical solution behind it. At the Dortmund expo, many attendees procured verification reports from one of the most authoritative testing institute, Inter Scientific, revealing that the FEELM Max solution can consistently deliver between 880-920 puffs.

During the exhibition, numerous esteemed brands, such as Aroma King, have also embraced the 800+ puff benchmark, joining hands with FEELM, collaboratively setting new puff standards in the TPD market, and heralding a new era of vaping innovations and heightened consumer expectations.

About FEELM

As a flagship tech brand under SMOORE, FEELM is the world's leading provider of closed vape system solutions. Harnessing the power of Ceramic Coil Heating Technology and authentic Flavor Reproduction Technology, FEELM merges innovation and electronics to deliver the ultimate sensation and a premium vaping experience.

About SMOORE

Founded in 2009, SMOORE is a global leader in atomization technology solutions, covering reduced-risk products, medical, pharmaceutical, and beauty atomization technologies. With inter-disciplinary atomization research and a diverse product portfolio, SMOORE is committed to becoming an advanced platform, aspired to make life better.

With continuous R&D investment and leading manufacturing capacity, SMOORE has 11 technology research centers worldwide and products are available in more than 80 countries and regions. SMOORE announced IPO in Hong Kong on July 10, 2020.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914578369/en/

Contacts:

Ruiqi Wang

Email: Ruiqi.wang@smooretech.com
ST JOHNS, NL / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Sokoman MineralsCorp. (TSXV:SIC)(OTCQB:SICNF) ("Sokoman" or the "Company") is pleased to provide the following update on the ongoing drilling program at the 100%-owned Moosehead gold project. Diamond drilling in the 463 Zone and adjoining footwall environment has intersected gold mineralization which helps to determine the plunge of the favourable structure hosting the 463 Zone and other proximal parallel mineralized zones in the footwall under the main Eastern Trend. The best intersections from the drill holes reported today are MH-23-536 and 542, which targeted the down-plunge extension of the 463 Zone which has an earlier intercept of 39.60 m grading 12.50 g/t Au including 10.5 m @ 41.97 g/t Au (see the December 15, 2022 news release).

Tim Froude, President and CEO of Sokoman, says: "Drilling will continue at Moosehead with two rigs, focused mainly on testing the Alpha IP targets outlined last winter. We have also begun trenching near-surface IP anomalies and soil geochemical anomalies. We are also defining a deeper target, below 500 metres, using our understanding of the structural geology of the main Eastern Trend from consultant, Dr. David Coller. We expect to be drilling until the Christmas break."

The table below gives the drill results for the 463, South Pond, and 75 Zones and also several reconnaissance holes.

*80-90% true thickness

Drill Plan Map

Drill holes MH-23-536 and 542 were drilled to follow up a 1.4 m intersection of visible gold-bearing quartz veins that gave 12.41 g/t Au from 409.75 m downhole (see the April 13, 2023 news release) an 80 m step-out, 56 m down plunge, from MH-22-463 in the 463 Zone. Results indicate that the zone remains open down-plunge. Other holes testing the 463 Zone area returned only anomalous results.

The South Pond drilling focused on the down-plunge extension of drill holes MH-20-123 - 5.00 m @ 26.87 g/t Au and MH-20-141 - 4.20 m @ 64.00 g/t Au (see the July 20, 2021 news release). Multiple zones of lower-grade gold mineralization were intersected suggesting the zone remains open to depth.

The 75 Zone was tested with three holes with only one hole (MH-23-529) giving significant mineralization. Additional drilling is planned to try to extend the high-grade mineralization intersected in MH-21-263 that gave 4.80 m @ 12.86 g/t Au.

Reconnaissance holes include MH-23-538, 539, 541, 543, and 544 drilled near the Bowtie area to the north of North Pond, with MH-23-545 drilled near the northeastern property boundary testing a mag high. Only one hole, MH-23-539, returned anomalous gold values.

The Company has started testing IP targets defined by the winter Alpha IP survey that defined several first- and second-priority targets below and to the west of the Western Trend as well as targets in the 253 Zone, 200 m to the east of the main Eastern Trend. Results of the first two holes MH-23-547 and 549, testing the Western Trend area, are pending.

QP

This news release has been reviewed and approved by Timothy Froude, P.Geo., a "Qualified Person" under National Instrument 43-101 and President and CEO of Sokoman Minerals Corp.

Analytical Techniques / QA/QC

Samples, including duplicates, blanks, and standards, were submitted to Eastern Analytical Ltd. in Springdale, Newfoundland for gold analysis. All core samples submitted for assay were saw cut by Sokoman personnel with one-half submitted for assay and one-half retained for reference. Samples were delivered in sealed bags directly to the lab by Sokoman personnel. Eastern Analytical Ltd. is an accredited assay lab that conforms to the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025. Samples with visible gold were submitted for total pulp metallics and gravimetric finish. All other samples were analyzed by standard fire assay methods. Total pulp metallic analysis includes: the whole sample is crushed to -10 mesh; then pulverized to 95% -150 mesh. The total sample is weighed and screened to 150 mesh; the +150 mesh fraction is fire assayed for Au, and a 30 g subsample of the -150 mesh fraction is fire assayed for Au; with a calculated weighted average of total Au in the sample reported as well. One blank and one industry-approved standard for every twenty samples submitted is included in the sample stream. Random duplicates of selected samples are analyzed in addition to the in-house standard and duplicate policies of Eastern Analytical Ltd. All reported assays are uncut.

About Sokoman Minerals Corp.

Sokoman Minerals Corp. is a discovery-oriented company with projects in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. The Company's primary focus is its portfolio of gold projects; the 100%-owned flagship, advanced-stage Moosehead, as well as Crippleback Lake (available for option); and East Alder (optioned to Canterra Minerals Corporation) along the Central Newfoundland Gold Belt, and the district-scale Fleur de Lys project near Baie Verte in north-central Newfoundland, that is targeting Dalradian-type orogenic gold mineralization similar to the Curraghinalt and Cavanacaw deposits in Northern Ireland. The Company also entered into a strategic alliance with Benton Resources Inc. through three, large-scale, joint-venture properties including Grey River, Golden Hope, and Kepenkeck in Newfoundland.

Sokoman now controls, independently and through the Benton Alliance, over 150,000 hectares (>6,000 claims - 1500 sq. km), making it one of the largest landholders in Newfoundland, in Canada's newest and rapidly emerging gold districts. The Company also retains an interest in an early-stage antimony/gold project (Startrek) in Newfoundland, optioned to Thunder Gold Corp (formerly White Metal Resources Inc.), and in Labrador, the Company has a 100% interest in the Iron Horse (Fe) project which has Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) potential.

Mineralization hosted on adjacent and/or nearby properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Company's property.

The Company would like to thank the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for past financial support of the Moosehead Project through the Junior Exploration Assistance Program.

For more information, please contact:

Timothy Froude, P.Geo., President & CEO

T: 709-765-1726

E: tim@sokomanmineralscorp.com

Cathy Hume, VP Corporate Development, Director

T: 416-868-1079 x 251

E: cathy@chfir.com

Website: www.sokomanmineralscorp.com

Twitter: @SokomanMinerals

Facebook: @SokomanMinerals

LinkedIn: @SokomanMineralsCorp

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Investors are cautioned that trading in the securities of the Corporation should be considered highly speculative. Except for historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward- looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially. Sokoman Minerals Corp. will not update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. More detailed information about potential factors that could affect financial results is included in the documents filed from time to time with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities by Sokoman Minerals Corp.

SOURCE: Sokoman Minerals Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783937/sokoman-provides-drilling-update--moosehead-gold-project-central-newfoundland
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Fjordland Exploration Inc. (TSXV: FEX) (the "Company") announces that Fjordland has elected all four nominated directors, including newly appointed director, Robert Cameron, at the Company's recent Annual General Meeting. The meeting also completed the retirement of long-term directors, Vic Tanaka and Peter Krag-Hansen.

Mr. Cameron is a geologist who has had a long and successful career that has included involvement in a number of discoveries including the QR Gold deposit, Kinross's first greenfields mine; the Kaspersky Hory Gold deposit in Czechia; and the discovery of the Cordero Silver deposit in Mexico. He was Canadian Exploration Manager for Phelps Dodge and Freeport McMoRan and Managing Director of Cyprus Canada. He is a member of the Association of Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia and is currently the President and CEO of Commander Resources and President and Director of Teako Minerals.

James Tuer, Fjordland's President commented, "I'm pleased to welcome Rob to the company's board of directors. Rob has been invaluable to Fjordland as its Qualified Person overseeing our technical disclosure. He's an expert in copper, gold and nickel terrains and has been instrumental in advancing our recent lithium exploration project on the North Shore of Quebec. The conclusion of this year's AGM marks the retirement of Vic Tanaka and Peter Krag-Hanson from the Company. Vic was a founding director and president of Fjordland 27 years ago when it started off looking for diamonds in Greenland. Peter Krag joined as a director 7 years later in 2003. I wish to thank them for their input, tenacity and stewardship over these many years."

About Fjordland Exploration Inc.

Fjordland Exploration Inc. is a mineral exploration company that is focused on the discovery of large-scale economic battery metal deposits in Canada.

In collaboration with Commander Resources Ltd., Fjordland is exploring the SVB "Pants Lake Intrusive" target which is in a geologic setting analogous to the nearby nickel-cobalt-copper Voisey's Bay deposit. Fjordland has earned a 75% interest in the project.

Fjordland, owns a 100% interest in the Renzy nickel-project located near Maniwaki, Quebec. The project encompasses the former Renzy Mine where, during the period from 1969 to 1972, 716,000 short tons were mined with average grades of 0.70% nickel and 0.72% copper. Recent work also highlighted the graphite potential for the project. The project size measures 530 sq. km.

Fjordland has two copper-gold properties in the Quesnel Trough of central British Columbia, The West Milligan copper-gold project is a joint venture with Northwest Copper Corp. located within 4 km of Centerra's Mount Milligan copper-gold mine. The 103 sq. km. Witch copper-gold project is located another 35 km west of the Milligan mine.

Fjordland owns the Manat-nipi Lithium Project (formerly referred to as the Kegashka Lithium Project) on the North Shore of Quebec near Natashquan.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

"James Tuer"

James Tuer, CEO

For further information:

James Tuer

Ph: 604-688-3415

tuer@fjordlandex.com

www.fjordlandex.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain forward-looking statements or information. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this news release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the use of proceeds from the private placement, and other future plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's plans or expectations include market prices, general economic, market or business conditions, regulatory changes, timeliness of government or regulatory approvals and other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180566
Announces Closing of Third Tranche of Private Placement

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Awakn Life Sciences Corp. (NEO: AWKN) (OTCQB: AWKNF) (FSE: 954) ("Awakn"), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing therapeutics to treat addiction with a near-term focus on Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), shares a corporate update on recent progress. Awakn also announces the closing of the third tranche of its previously announced private placement.

Key recent corporate activity:

Healthcare services exit completed and burn reduced: In June 2023 Awakn announced its intended exit from healthcare services to focus solely on Research and Development of therapeutics treating addiction. Awakn successfully completed its exit from the healthcare services in August 2023, which has significantly reduced Awakn's burn.

Clinical trial application (CTA) submitted for phase III of lead program AWKN-P001, with Awakn's cost for the phase III capped at approximately GBP 800,000. In September 2023 Awakn submitted the CTA for a phase III clinical trial for its lead program AWKN-P001 for the treatment of Severe Alcohol Use Disorder (SAUD). The trial is being run by the University of Exeter, and a partnership between the UK National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR) and the UK Medical Research Council (MRC). The phase III trial will be a n=280, two-armed randomized placebo-controlled trial. It will be delivered in the UK across ten UK National Health Service (NHS) sites. Awakn will contribute approx. GBP 800,000 towards the costs of the trial, with the NIHR, MRC, and the University of Exeter contributing the balance of the costs.

Awakn and its partners are expecting feedback in the coming months on the CTA, and subject to ethical and regulatory approval, first trial participants will be treated in Q1 2024.

Zydis/MDMA feasibility study progressing. Awakn initiated a feasibility study in March 2023 for a proprietary formulation of MDMA using Catalent's Zydis orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) technology. The study is evaluating a variety of chemical parameters and several aspects of the Zydis MDMA ODT.

Awakn and Catalent have completed two of the three planned manufacturing tests and are now progressing into the third manufacturing production run test.

Awakn continues to expand its addiction and mental health treatment licensing partnership business. Awakn provides access to its proven proprietary ketamine-assisted therapy protocol for the treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and additional healthcare services intellectual property under license to substance use disorder and mental health treatment facilities. Awakn's partner clinic network now includes clinics in New York and California, in the US; Ontario, in Canada; Oslo and Trondheim, in Norway, London, in UK and Lisbon, in Portugal.

Financing:

On April 26th, 2023, Awakn announced a non-brokered private placement financing for gross proceeds of up to $3,000,000, which was upsized to $4,000,000 on June 15, 2023 at a price of CAD$0.46 per unit (the "Offering"). Each unit is comprised of one common share in the capital of the Company (each, a "Common Share") and three quarters (0.75) of one whole Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to acquire one Common Share at a price of $0.63 per Common Share for a period of five (5) years from the date of issuance. Gross proceeds from the Offering will be used to fund the company's general working capital.

Today, Awakn has closed the third tranche of the Offering, issuing 1,667,858 Units for gross proceeds of $767,215 for this tranche and $2,734,663 in total for the Offering to date.

Closing of the Offering is subject to receipt of all necessary corporate and regulatory approvals, including the approval of NEO Exchange. All securities issued in connection with the Offering will be subject to a hold period of four months plus a day from the date of issuance and the resale rules of applicable securities legislation.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons as defined under applicable United States securities laws unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

About Awakn Life Sciences Corp.

Awakn Life Sciences Corp. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing therapeutics targeting addiction. Awakn has a near-term focus on Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), a condition affecting approximately 37 million people in the US and key international markets and 285m people globally for which the current standard of care is inadequate. Our goal is to provide breakthrough therapeutics to addiction sufferers in desperate need and our strategy is focused on commercializing our R&D pipeline across multiple channels.

www.AwaknLifeSciences.com | Twitter | LinkedIn

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively referred to herein as "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements reflect current expectations or beliefs regarding future events or the Company's future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "continues", "forecasts", "projects", "predicts", "intends", "anticipates", "targets" or "believes", or variations of, or the negatives of, such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, including statements relating the business of the Company. All forward-looking statements, including those herein are qualified by this cautionary statement.

Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in such statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the statements. There are certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking information. These include, but are not limited to:COVID-19; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; the business plans and strategies of the Company; the ability of the Company to comply with all applicable governmental regulations in a highly regulated business; the inherent risks in investing in target companies or projects which have limited or no operating history and are engaged in activities currently considered illegal in some jurisdictions; changes in laws; limited operating history; reliance on management; requirements for additional financing; competition; fluctuations in securities markets; inconsistent public opinion and perception regarding the medical-use of psychedelic drugs; expectations regarding the size of the addiction market; and regulatory or political change. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release speak only as of the date of this news release or as of the date or dates specified in such statements.

Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. For more information on the Company, investors are encouraged to review the Company's public filings on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward- looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in the United States. The Company's and Awakn's securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

Investor Enquiries:

Anthony Tennyson, CEO, Awakn Life Sciences

anthony.tennyson@awaknlifesciences.com

Media Enquiries:

Gordo Whittaker, CMO, Awakn Life Sciences

gordo@awaknlifesciences.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180591
GUANGZHOU, China, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On September 14th, the 15 Shortlisted Cities of the 6th Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation (Guangzhou Award) were officially released: Antalya, Turkiye; Bogota, Colombia; Cape Town, South Africa; Gwangju, Korea; Halandri, Greece; Iztapalapa, Mexico; Jakarta, Indonesia; Kampala, Uganda; Kazan, Russia; Mannheim, Germany; Pimpri Chinchwad, India; Ramallah, Palestine; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Tehran, Iran; Xianning, China.

274 initiatives from 193 cities and regions in 54 countries submitted valid applications to the 6th cycle of the Guangzhou Award. Five countries submitted for the first time. A Technical Committee of international experts met in Guangzhou 11-14 September 2023. The selection was based on the criteria of innovation, effectiveness, context, and replicability and their relevance to the local implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the New Urban Agenda (NUA), The 11 TC members from 11 countries selected 45 Deserving initiatives, from which 15 shortlisted cities stood out.

ZHANG Yajie, Vice Chairman of Guangzhou Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Emilia Saiz, Secretary General of UCLG and Jordi Vaquer, Secretary General of the Metropolis addressed the conference and expressed their appreciation of Guangzhou's contribution to urban innovation and sustainable development globally.

Following the remarks, Azza Sirry, Chair of the Technical Committee announced the 15 Shortlisted cities of this year's Guangzhou Award. She introduced that this year's Guangzhou Award has received many submissions with high-quality initiatives, whether from the perspective of urban innovative development, or the attention to social inclusion and civic participation. Those initiatives all boasted relatively-advanced representativeness and reference value.

After the release, with the topic of High-quality Development and Urban Innovation, Kobie Brand, Deputy Secretary General of ICLEI, Chief Executive Officer and Regional Director of ICLEI Africa; Dyan Currie, Chief Planner of the Brisbane City Council and Lead of Brisbane 2032 Host City Office, together with other experts and scholars, discussed how to make cities healthier, safer and more livable places for high-quality life by promoting the modernization of the urban industrial system, governance capacity and culture type.

The Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation (Guangzhou Award) is co-sponsored by the City of Guangzhou, UCLG and Metropolis since 2012. With more than 1,300 initiatives worldwide, it has become a global platform for global knowledge creation and city-to-city learning on urban innovation.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/the-15-shortlisted-cities-of-the-6th-guangzhou-award-released-301927765.html
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Amarc Resources Ltd. (TSXV:AHR)(OTCQB:AXREF) (Amarc or the "Company"), is pleased to announce that Amarc President & CEO Dr. Diane Nicolson is scheduled to present at the 2023 Kinvestor Days Virtual Conference on September 19, 2023 at 8:00 am PT (11:00 am ET). Registration details are provided below.

Amarc holds 100% interest in the expansive JOY, DUKE and IKE Cu-Au Districts in British Columbia: each district hosts one or more known porphyry copper deposits and a pipeline of high-potential deposit targets. Major partners are earning in, funding non-share dilutive exploration at JOY and DUKE.

It's been a busy year for Amarc as both the JOY and DUKE Cu-Au Districts have been actively explored and advanced over the past nine months.

Following comprehensive drilling and surface exploration programs in 2021 and 2022 at the JOY Cu-Au District, an extensive program has taken place at JOY in 2023 that includes airborne geophysics and ground geological, geophysical and geochemical surveys to refine targets for 2024 drilling.

At the DUKE Cu-Au District, more than 11,000 metres of drilling has been completed in late 2022-early 2023, expanding the DUKE deposit. Since that time, extensive airborne geophysics and ground geological, geophysical and geochemical surveys have been underway to refine targets across the DUKE District for early 2024 drill testing.

To hear more, register for free today and reserve your spot.

Presentation Details:

Date: September 19, 2023

Presentation Time: 8:00 am PT / 11:00 am ET

Presenter: Dr. Diane Nicolson, President & CEO

Register now at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/1916911734480/WN_T-UkYKxYR66v8mUFoVsxGw

About Kinvestor Virtual Conferences

At Kinvestor, we create powerful opportunities for investors to connect with both established and up-and-coming public companies in the mining, technology, and energy sectors on a free to join virtual platform. Kinvestor Virtual Conferences are powered by Kin Communications Inc, a full-service investor relations agency with over 14 years of experience across multiple industries. Our goal is to foster long-term relationships with investors, thought leaders and the media. Our investor relations services include strategy, messaging, investor outreach, digital marketing, content creation, and more. For more information visit www.kinvestor.net

Twitter: @kincomm

About Amarc Resources Ltd.

Amarc is a mineral exploration and development company with an experienced and successful management team focused on developing a new generation of long-life, high-value porphyry Cu-Au mines in BC. By combining high-demand projects with dynamic management, Amarc has created a solid platform to create value from its exploration and development-stage assets.

Amarc is advancing its 100%-owned JOY, DUKE and IKE porphyry CuAu districts located in different prolific porphyry regions of southern, central and northern BC, respectively. Each district represents significant potential for the development of multiple and important-scale, porphyry CuAu deposits. Importantly, each of the three districts is located in proximity to industrial infrastructure - including power, highways and rail.

Amarc is associated with HDI, a diversified, global mining company with a 35-year history of porphyry Cu deposit discovery and development success. Previous and current HDI projects include some of BC's and the world's most important porphyry deposits - such as Pebble, Mount Milligan, Southern Star, Kemess South, Kemess North, Gibraltar, Prosperity, Xietongmen, Newtongmen, Florence, Casino, Sisson, Maggie, IKE, PINE and DUKE. From its head office in Vancouver, Canada, HDI applies its unique strengths and capabilities to acquire, develop, operate and monetize mineral projects.

Amarc works closely with local governments, Indigenous groups and stakeholders in order to advance its mineral projects responsibly, and in a manner that contributes to sustainable community and economic development. We pursue early and meaningful engagement to ensure our mineral exploration and development activities are well coordinated and broadly supported, address local priorities and concerns, and optimize opportunities for collaboration. In particular, we seek to establish mutually beneficial partnerships with Indigenous groups within whose traditional territories our projects are located, through the provision of jobs, training programs, contract opportunities, capacity funding agreements and sponsorship of community events. All Amarc work programs are carefully planned to achieve high levels of environmental and social performance.

Dr. Roy Greig, P.Geo., a Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical content in this release.

For further details on Amarc Resources Ltd., please visit the Company's website at www.amarcresources.com or contact Dr. Diane Nicolson, President and CEO, at (604) 684-6365 or within North America at 1-800-667-2114, or Kin Communications, at (604) 684-6730, Email: AHR@kincommunications.com.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF AMARC RESOURCES LTD.

Dr. Diane Nicolson

President and CEO

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor any other regulatory authority accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking and other Cautionary Information

This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All such statements, other than statements of historical facts that address exploration plans and plans for enhanced relationships are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Assumptions used by the Company to develop forward-looking statements include the following: Amarc's projects will obtain all required environmental and other permits and all land use and other licenses, studies and exploration of Amarc's projects will continue to be positive, and no geological or technical problems will occur. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, potential environmental issues or liabilities associated with exploration, development and mining activities, exploitation and exploration successes, continuity of mineralization, uncertainties related to the ability to obtain necessary permits, licenses and tenure and delays due to third party opposition, changes in and the effect of government policies regarding mining and natural resource exploration and exploitation, exploration and development of properties located within Aboriginal groups asserted territories may affect or be perceived to affect asserted aboriginal rights and title, which may cause permitting delays or opposition by Aboriginal groups, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions, as well as risks relating to the uncertainties with respect to the effects of COVID-19. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on Amarc Resources Ltd., investors should review Amarc's annual Form 20-F filing with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov and its home jurisdiction filings that are available at www.sedarplus.ca.

SOURCE: Amarc Resources Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783870/amarc-to-present-at-the-2023-kinvestor-days-virtual-conference-mining-day
DENVER, CO / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Solitario Resources ("Solitario") (NYSE American:XPL)(TSX:SLR), a gold and zinc exploration company with projects in North and South America, is pleased to report CEO Chris Herald will provide a live presentation at the 35th Annual Gold Forum Americas/XPL-Dev conference on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at 10:50am MDT. For more information on the conference, please click Denver Gold Group.

About Solitario

Solitario is a natural resource exploration company focused on high-quality Tier-1 gold and zinc projects. The Company is traded on the NYSE American ("XPL") and on the Toronto Stock Exchange ("SLR"). Solitario's 100%-owned Golden Crest project in South Dakota is one of the most exciting green fields gold exploration projects in North America and is awaiting drilling permits. In addition to its South Dakota property holdings, Solitario holds a 50% joint venture interest (Teck Resources 50%) in the high-grade Lik zinc deposit in Alaska and a 39% joint venture interest (Nexa Resources 61%) on the high-grade Florida Canyon zinc project in Peru. Solitario is carried to production through its joint venture arrangement with Nexa. Solitario's Management and Directors hold approximately 8.7% (excluding options) of the Company's 69 million shares outstanding. Solitario's cash balance and marketable securities stand at approximately US$6.0 million. Additional information about Solitario is available online at www.solitarioresources.com.

Solitario has a long history of committed Environmental, Social and Responsible Governance ("ESG") of its business. We realize ESG issues are also important to investors, employees, and all stakeholders, including communities in which we work. We are pledged to operate our business in a manner that supports environmental and social initiatives and responsible corporate governance. Importantly, we select joint venture partners that not only value the importance of ESG issues in the conduct of their business on our joint venture projects but are industry leaders in this important segment of our business.

For More Information Please Contact:

Christopher E. Herald President & CEO (303) 534-1030, Ext. 14 Anne Hite Investor Relations (303) 519-5149

SOURCE: Solitario Zinc Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783834/solitario-ceo-to-present-at-denver-gold-groups-35th-gold-forum-americasxpl-dev-conference
mimbi has secured a seed round to enhance its platform, empowering brands to refine their retail media expenditures.

PARIS, FRANCE / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / mimbi (www.mimbi.io), a startup specializing in data analysis for Retail Media, has announced a funding round with a group of renowned business angels and funds (Founders Future, OVNI Capital, Kima Ventures, and Better Angels). This funding validates the relevance of mimbi's platform to help brands measure return on investment for their advertising campaigns on e-commerce sites. The startup also completes its board of directors with the arrival of Emmanuel Grenier, former CEO of Cdiscount, and Marc Menase, founder of Founders Future.

Mimbi: Retail Media Analytics

mimbi is a retail media analytics platform for brands

With an estimated annual growth of 20%, the Retail Media market is expected to reach $125.7 billion in 2023 and eventually surpass TV advertising investments, according to GroupM. mimbi provides an innovative solution for brands and agencies to track and optimize the true incrementality of their advertising campaigns on e-commerce sites.

Helping brands harmonize and optimize their Retail Media KPIs

Founded by Mickael Froger and Frederic Clement, two e-commerce technology experts, the startup has developed a SaaS platform that leverages advanced data analytics to help clients make the right strategic decisions in Retail Media investments.

This funding round, led by Founders Future and OVNI Capital, validates the founders' vision and will accelerate mimbi's commercial development in Europe.

"Thanks to this funding, we can continue pushing the boundaries of the market and provide brands with the information they need to drive growth, particularly by capitalizing on retailer data," said Mickael Froger.

Growing with European ambitions

To support mimbi's ambitions, Emmanuel Grenier, former CEO of Cdiscount, and Marc Menase, founder of Founders Future, are joining the startup's board of directors.

"We are delighted to welcome Emmanuel and Marc to our board of directors. The breadth of their experience and knowledge in commerce is priceless for continuing our growth and innovation," added Frederic Clement.

About mimbi

Created by Mickael Froger and Frederic Clement, two experts in e-commerce technology solutions, mimbi is revolutionizing the sector through its Retail Media Intelligence platform. Relying on advanced data analytics technologies, mimbi enables brands and agencies to make strategic decisions about their Retail Media investments. www.mimbi.io

About Founders Future

Founded in 2018 by entrepreneur Marc Menase, Founders Future combines the agility and operational support of a business angel with the robustness of a fund. Founders Future has invested in companies including Lydia, Yuka, La Fourche, Ezra (US), and Taster (UK). www.foundersfuture.com.

About OVNI Capital

Founded in 2022, OVNI Capital is an investment fund based in Paris focused on providing the first funding check for startups with strong international ambitions. OVNI Capital targets companies with a competitive technological advantage that aims to redefine their markets. Backed by 70 investors who are former entrepreneurs, OVNI Capital leverages this community to support its companies commercially and in geographic expansion. https://ovni.vc/

Contact Information

Frederic CLEMENT

Co-Founder

frederic@mimbi.io

SOURCE: mimbi

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783219/mimbi-raises-15-million-to-revolutionize-retail-media-data-analysis
VACAVILLE, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Athena Gold Corporation (OTCQB:AHNR)(CSE:ATHA) ("Athena" or the "Company") is pleased to announce results from its Phase 3 drilling program (the "Program") at its 100% owned, 4,000 acre Excelsior Springs Gold Project (the "Project" or the "Property"), located approximately 45 miles southwest of Goldfield in Esmeralda County, Nevada.

A total of nine RC drill holes were completed in the Phase 3 program for a total of 1,140 meters in the Western Slope Zone ("WSZ"); gold mineralization was extended both east and west. The purpose of the Company's Phase 3 drilling program was to expand the mineralization footprint and better understand the mineralization trend at the WSZ, which is the one of the newest grassroots discoveries in the prestigious Walker Lane Trend in Nevada.

John Power, President & CEO of Athena commented, "We are pleased with the continued progress and evolution of our new Western Slope Zone. We have drilled 18 RC holes for a total of 2,052 meters in the WSZ over 2022 and 2023 with excellent results. Our immediate focus is to further expand the WSZ zone and identify the source of its mineralizing fluids. This combined with the follow-up exploration opportunity at GE-14, which has an IRG geochemical signature, provide the Company with multiple high-leverage drill targets going forward."

Phase 3 Highlights and Results

DH 23-03: Intersected 1.02 g/t Au and 8.2 g/t Ag over 51.8 meters, starting at 29.0 meters. This lengthy intercept extended the Western Slope Zone about 23 m eastward at similar depths to the two intercepts reported from RC hole 22-02. The mineralization was well distributed throughout the interval.

DH 23-01: Intersected 2.18 g/t Au and 1.9 g/t Ag over 6.1 meters, starting at 74.7 meters. This intercept included 1.52 m (5 feet) of 6.6 g/t Au, extending the WSZ approximately 15 m east of the deepest interval reported in RC drill hole 22-01.

Figure 1. Plan map of all holes drilled to date at the Western Slope Zone. The holes drilled in 2022 yielded the best gold grades in the history of the Property, with over 100 RC drill holes completed over the past 50 years. True widths of the drill hole intercepts are not known

The Company engaged Caracle Creek International Consulting Inc. and its strategic partner Atticus Geoscience Consulting to analyze and model the drill hole data from the Western Slope Zone in a comprehensive 3D geological model and propose follow-up drill targets in the WSZ. Initial modeling has been completed giving the Company a better understanding of the orientation of mineralization in the WSZ. A very concise drilling program has been designed as part of the next phase of exploration at Excelsior Springs, as reflected in Figure 2.

Figure 2. Western Slope Zone, 3D Leapfrog geo-model looking west, showing the 6 proposed Phase 4 drill holes (green), angled between 40 and 60 and with lengths between 100 m and 250 meters. The modeled mineralized bodies (red) have an interpreted dip at 60 south. Phase 2 and Phase 3 drill holes are shown in white and the limestone units are shown in light blue.

Future exploration plans and discussion

Future exploration will focus on drilling the holes proposed by Caracle Creek/Atticus to continue to delineate and expand the WSZ. In addition, future exploration will aim to uncover new zones of mineralization starting with the area around historical drill hole GE-14. The area around GE-14 has a much different geochemical signature than the WSZ.

Drill hole GE-14 is in an area about 325 m east of WSZ and returned 24.4 meters of 1.09 g/t Au starting at only 7.6 meters depth; this hole also had anomalous arsenic, antimony, bismuth, molybdenum, mercury, and tellurium. GE-14 is proximal to a mapped fault named the South Ridge Thrust Fault ("SRTF") which extends all the way to an IP anomaly in the southwest area of the Property. The SRTF appears to be similar to a traditional Intrusion Related Gold (IRG) system with elevated arsenic, bismuth and other key pathfinder elements associated with gold mineralization.

This IRG target was further confirmed by more recent outcrop sampling by Athena's technical team at Contact Gulch, a surface exposure of the SRTF which returned almost 1 g/t Au and significantly elevated arsenic, bismuth, copper, and molybdenum concentrations. Elevated concentrations of these minerals are interpreted to be hydrothermally derived from a magmatic source. The Company has a high level of confidence in the gold exploration opportunity in the area around GE-14.

We also recently collected surface samples from the historic high-grade gold occurrence commonly referred to as the Lida Bell mine which is located on new claims staked by Athena in the fall of 2022 to expand our land package to approximately 4,000 acres at Excelsior Springs.

Figure 3 shows the surface and sub-surface geology and all the holes within 23 meters east and 26 meters west of cross section 446830 E. This plan map and cross-sectional segment contains six of the eight holes drilled to date in the WSZ that contained intercepts above established cutoff criteria[1]. Note that the upper limestone capped the mineralization on this cross section and in hole 23-03 and 23-01, which are beyond the east and west limits of the plan map and are not projected on this section.

[1] Gold cut off: 0.20 g/t. Minimum mineral interval of 20 feet interval. Minimum 20 feet waste between mineral intervals. Maximum 20 feet waste within mineral intervals. Drill intervals are not mineral thicknesses.

Figure 4 is a plan map that shows these targets along with the Company's land position and the geophysical survey.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control

Procedures were implemented to assure Quality Assurance Quality Control (QAQC). All drilling was performed using reverse circulation methods with samples collected at 5-foot intervals. Representative sample splits were securely stored for shipment, with chain of custody documentation through delivery to American Assay Laboratories, an independent ISO-certified laboratory in Reno, Nevada. Mineralized commercial reference standards and coarse blank standards were inserted in every 20th sample in sequence to assure acceptable levels of confidence of the drill hole assays. When laboratory reports of the assays are received, QAQC protocols are immediately augmented to ensure dependability of the drill hole assays.

As the Excelsior Springs Project advances, additional QAQC measures will be implemented including selected duplicate check assaying on pulps and coarse rejects at a second accredited assay laboratory. All results will be analyzed for consistency.

Qualified Person

John Hiner, SME Registered Member and Washington State Licensed Geologist, is a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101 and has reviewed the scientific and technical information that forms the basis of this press release and has approved the disclosure herein. Mr. Hiner is not independent of the Company.

Corporate Objectives

Athena's main objectives are to conduct additional exploration drilling and studies on the Project and to acquire precious and base metal properties of merit.

For further information about Athena Gold Corporation and our Excelsior Springs Gold project, please visit www.athenagoldcorp.com.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

John Power

Chief Executive Officer and President

Phone: John Power, 707-291-6198

Email: info@athenagoldcorp.com

Castlewood Capital, Jason (647) 534-9884

Email: jason@castlewoodcapital.ca

Cautionary Statement to U.S. Investors

This press release references NI 43-101, which differs from the requirements of U.S. securities laws. NI 43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators that establishes standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects.

The United States Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") permits mining companies, in their filings with the SEC, to disclose only those mineral deposits that a company can legally extract or produce. Pursuant to SEC Industry Guide 7 under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, a "final" or "bankable" feasibility study is required to report reserves.

Currently Athena has not delineated "reserves" on any of its properties. Athena cannot be certain that any deposits at its properties will ever be confirmed or converted into SEC Industry Guide 7 or any successor rule or regulation compliant "reserves". Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of the historic Buster Mine or Western Slope gold zones will ever be confirmed or converted into reserves or that it can be economically or legally extracted.

The SEC has adopted amendments to its disclosure rules to modernize the mineral property disclosure requirements for issuers whose securities are registered with the SEC under the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These amendments became effective February 25, 2019, with compliance required for the first fiscal year beginning on or after January 1, 2021, and historical property disclosure requirements for mining registrants that were included in SEC Industry Guide 7, which was rescinded from and after such date and replaced with disclosure requirements known as S-K 1300.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding future exploration plans and the completion of a phase 2 drill program at the Project, future results from exploration, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: "believes", "will", "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "estimates", "plans", "may", "should", "potential", "scheduled", or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions, which, by their nature, refer to future events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. In making the forward-looking statements in this press release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that there will be investor interest in future financings, market fundamentals will result in sustained precious metals demand and prices, the receipt of any cessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals in connection with the future exploration and development of the Company's projects in a timely manner, QAQC procedures at the Project were followed, the availability of financing on suitable terms for the exploration and development of the Company's projects and the Company's ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws.

The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, operating and technical difficulties in connection with mineral exploration and development activities, actual results of exploration activities, the estimation or realization of mineral reserves and mineral resources, the inability of the Company to obtain the necessary financing required to conduct its business and affairs, as currently contemplated, the timing and amount of estimated future production, the costs of production, capital expenditures, the costs and timing of the development of new deposits, requirements for additional capital, future prices of precious metals, changes in general economic conditions, changes in the financial markets and in the demand and market price for commodities, lack of investor interest in future financings, accidents, labor disputes and other risks of the mining industry, delays in obtaining governmental approvals, permits or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities, risks relating to epidemics or pandemics such as COVID-19, including the impact of COVID-19 on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, title disputes, the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents, approvals or authorizations, including of the Canadian Securities Exchange, the timing and possible outcome of any pending litigation, environmental issues and liabilities, and other factors and risks that are discussed in the Company's periodic filings with the SEC and disclosed in the final long form prospectus of the Company dated August 31, 2021.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements in this press release or incorporated by reference herein, except as otherwise.

SOURCE: Athena Gold Corporation

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784187/correction-by-source-athena-gold-drills-102-gt-gold-over-518-meters-and-extends-its-shallow-oxide-gold-discovery-at-excelsior-springs-project-nevada
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / HIRE Technologies Inc. (TSXV:HIRE.V) (OTC PINK:HIRRF) ("HIRE" or the "Company") today shares an update on its restructuring progress. Following the recent divestiture of its Provision business unit, as shared in our September 8, 2023, news release, the Company confirms utilizing the accrued proceeds to satisfy its primary senior secured creditor in full while also allocating $2,000,000 towards another senior creditor, leaving an outstanding balance of $357,267. The remaining funds have been allocated to support ongoing operational expenses.

In a strategic move preceding the Provision deal's conclusion, the Company divested all operational assets of its Kavan Group business unit for an undisclosed sum, classified as an Exempt Disposition per the TSX Venture Exchange's protocols. After these key divestitures, HIRE's active business portfolio comprises:

PTC Accounting and Finance

Pulsify

Leaders International

HIRE remains proactive in exploring further divestitures, aiming to alleviate its liability footprint while bolstering its financial position.

In the wake of the Kavin and Provision unit sales, the Company has successfully negotiated a transition plan for its interim CEO and CFO, Simon Dealy. Despite Mr. Dealy's recent exit from the board, he has committed to retaining his interim CEO and CFO positions on a scaled-back basis, operating under an independent contractor framework through December 31, 2023. Post Mr. Dealy's board departure, the board now consists of three members.

The Company also announces that on July 31, 2023, holders of a sufficient amount of outstanding principal of its series of 9% convertible unsecured subordinated debentures, which were issued by way of private placement pursuant to a trust indenture dated August 21, 2020, requisitioned the trustee to waive certain events of default under the indenture, such that the principal amount and interest owing to the holders of the debentures are payable by the Company on or before January 31, 2024, instead of the original maturity date of July 31, 2023.

The Company continues to work with its auditor toward completing its 2022 audited annual consolidated financial statements. Following completion of these statements and interim consolidated financial statements for subsequent quarterly periods, the Company intends to seek a revocation of the current Cease Trade Order issued against the Company.

Contacts

Simon Dealy

Chief Executive Officer

(647) 264-9196

sdealy@hire.company

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" (collectively referred to hereafter as "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation.

All statements that address activities, events, or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will, or may, occur in the future, including but not limited to statements regarding the Company's plans to pursue additional divestitures of its remaining business units, the Company's CEO and CFO transition plan, and other business plans, are forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements are preceded by, followed by, or include words such as "may," "will," "would," "could," "should," "believes," "estimates," "projects," "potential," "expects," "plans," "intends," "proposes," "anticipates," "targeted," "continues," "forecasts," "designed," "goal," or the negative of those words or other similar or comparable words. Although the management of the Company believes that the assumptions made and the expectations represented by such statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that a forward-looking statement herein will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance, or achievements to materially differ from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties applicable to the Company can be found in the Company's MD&A and its continuous disclosure record available on SEDAR+. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, other factors may cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended.

This cautionary statement qualifies all forward-looking statements herein. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE: HIRE Technologies Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783877/hire-technologies-provides-update-on-restructuring-process
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Gama Explorations Inc. (CSE:GAMA) ("Gama" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on its geophysical survey results from the Company's 100% owned Tyee Nickel Copper Cobalt Project. The Tyee Project is located north of Havre St. Pierre in Quebec.

Highlights

Over 2,000 line-km of geophysical data was processed and has yielded compelling targets

Geophysical targets will be assessed with ground exploration to validate drill targets

A permit application for drilling has been submitted

The Company has received a permit for a temporary camp near the main targets

Remainder of geophysical survey to be flown this fall

"The geophysical targets generated so far are compelling," stated Dr. Jacob Verbaas, CEO of Gama. "The Tyee claim block spans over 600 km2 of prospective ground with numerous conductors. The priority targets we have identified have good strike length and good conductive and magnetic association and are considered prospective for nickel and copper sulphide mineralization. We are excited to validate these targets in the near future with a comprehensive ground exploration program. The Company is fully funded to drill these targets if they are successfully validated."

Figure 1. Total magnetic intensity map (blue/green corresponds to low magnetic intensity, red/magenta corresponds to high magnetic intensity) of the SkyTEM survey over part of the Tyee claims.

Geophysical data processing

All geophysical data that was collected in the early summer has now been processed. As part of the processing, the data was inverted in 3D to identify the potential extension to depth of the conductive targets. The processing has led to the identification of over 60 near-surface conductors that fall within 25 groups of which several have been prioritized for surface work follow up as these areas are prospective for massive sulphide nickel and copper mineralization. Targets for immediate ground exploration are associated with the north contact of anorthosite with country rock gneiss and a large magnetically layered intrusion emplaced within the anorthosite itself. These priority targets are further detailed below.

Target validation

Targets will be validated in the field in the near future to identify whether the geophysical anomalies are indeed related to nickel and copper sulphide mineralization. A validated target must include 1) nickel and copper mineralization at surface, identified visually and confirmed by hand-held XRF analysis 2) reasonable strike length and thickness, 3) extension to depth as identified by geophysics. If targets can be validated drilling will be planned as soon as possible. The Company has made an application to allow for the building of 5 drill pads to test priority targets in case they are successfully validated. The Company has also applied for and received a permit to erect a temporary camp should a more extensive drill program be warranted.

Priority targets

Figure 2. Priority targets outlined on a total magnetic intensity map.

1. St. Denis Targets

The St. Denis targets are associated with the north contact of anorthosite and gneisses. The eastern target appears to be associated with several linear magnetic highs which are likely mafic dikes. The strike length is estimated to be 200m and the conductor has an easterly dip. St. Denis west is of similar size without an association to mafic dikes and appears to be vertical. A permit application for drilling has been submitted on both targets.

2. Crescent

The Crescent target is a conductor of 600 m strike length with high amplitude and good magnetic association. The target appears to dip eastwards. The magnetic association indicates the host rock is likely mafic or ultramafic. A permit application for drilling has been submitted on this target.

3. St Catherines Targets

The St. Catherines targets are associated within a 9 kilometre long and 3.4 kilometre wide magnetically layered intrusion. The intrusion was recorded as an ultramafic rock unit from one publicly available datapoint in the ministry of Quebec geological database, however, it does not show on any bedrock maps.

The Big St. Catherines target is the largest of the priority targets. It consists of the eastern flank of the layered intrusion, which is the most conductive portion. Although it is uncommon to find massive sulphide mineralization of this size (several km long) the target is in an unmapped rock unit in a prospective region. Hence further exploration to identify what is responsible for this large geophysical anomaly is warranted. Because the target is too large to identify drill targets from the geophysics and government data alone, no application for drilling has been submitted yet.



Figure 3. Inversion of the Big St. Catherines target, showing the large conductive eastern flank.

The Little St. Catherines target consists of 4 discrete anomalies that are on the southern fault-segmented portion of the layered intrusion that also hosts the Big St. Catherines target. The Little St. Catherines Target conductors have a good magnetic association.

4. St. Laurent

The St. Laurent Target is a shallow conductor that occurs over two lines with good magnetic association. An application for drilling on this target has been submitted. This is a smaller target but very prospective given its location within the magnetic transition zone between the anorthosite and northern country rocks.

Tyee SkyTEM Survey

The remaining 1,187 km of survey lines will be completed this fall. The targets mentioned above were generated on roughly two thirds of the project. One third of the project has not yet been covered by airborne EM and another third is covered at a reduced line spacing. The Company expects that more targets will be generated that will justify ground exploration.

HSP Region History

The HSP Complex is an intrusive suite of rocks to the north of Havre St. Pierre, Quebec. The complex contains the Lac Tio titanium mine owned by Rio Tinto, and exploration to date has been conducted for titanium. Nickel sulphide occurrences were initially discovered in the northernmost part of the HSP Complex in the nineties. These nickel sulphide occurrences were staked by Go Metals in 2019 and subjected to inaugural drilling in 2022. The Tyee nickel claims were staked in March of 2022 after a detailed geological, geophysical, and geochemical review of the HSP Complex.

Qualified Person

Ryan Versloot, P.Geo., a "Qualified Person" for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the contents of this news release.

About Gama Explorations Inc.

Gama is a Canadian company listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE:GAMA), the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (FSE:N79), and OTCQB Exchange (OTCQB:GMMAF). The Company is a mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral properties containing metals used in green technologies and the renewable energy sector. The company currently has the right to acquire 100% interest in the Muskox Lithium Pegmatite Project located within the Yellowknife Pegmatite Province in the Northwest Territories and owns 100% of the Tyee Nickel-Copper Massive Sulphide Project located in North-Eastern Quebec.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD, Dr. Jacob Verbaas, P.Geo. | CEO For further information please contact: Focus Communications

Tel: +1 647 689 6041

Email: info@fcir.ca

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements as well as historical information. Readers should not rely on information in this summary for any purpose other than for gaining general knowledge of the Company. The words "expected", "will" and similar expressions are intended to be among the statements that identify forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that its expectations as reflected in any forward-looking statements, are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties and no assurance can be given that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates, opinions or other factors should change.

The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed this press release and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

SOURCE: Gama Explorations Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784039/gama-explorations-announces-new-geophysical-targets-on-the-tyee-nickel-copper-cobalt-project-in-quebec
VANCOUVER, BC and TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Today, IR Labs Inc. ("irlabs"), a leader in data-driven investor relations solutions, announces the launch of the Investor Pulse Report. This innovative tool provides businesses with real-time insights into investor perceptions, providing them with data, trends, and industry information to make informed decisions, shape effective communication strategies, and gain a competitive edge. The company debuted the new product during the inaugural virtual event of the "Discover the Standouts" roadshow.

In today's fast-paced business landscape, understanding investor sentiment is of utmost importance. Leveraging advanced technology, the Investor Pulse Report comprehensively analyzes social media, news, blogs, forums and the web to stay ahead of investor sentiment, make informed decisions, and shape effective communication strategies.

"In a world where data means everything, announcing an investor pulse report means being able to serve our clients in a new way," said Alyssa Barry, Principal and Co-founder at irlabs. "The report helps our clients and industry stay attuned to their impact and empowered to make stronger business decisions."

Designed to enhance businesses' investor relations efforts, the report offers a comprehensive suite of features. By tracking sentiment over time, businesses gain a deeper understanding of long-term trends and the ability to anticipate market shifts proactively. The tool's customizable alerts ensure that businesses never miss crucial shifts in investor sentiment, providing them with timely and actionable information. Moreover, irlabs' expert guidance complements the tool by optimizing the utilization of insights, enabling businesses to drive tangible results and make well-informed decisions that align with investor expectations.

One of the key advantages of the report is its detailed brand monitoring capabilities. By meticulously tracking and analyzing competitor mentions, businesses gain valuable insights into sentiment and reach, empowering them to make strategic moves- positioning them as industry leaders in crisis management, and allowing them to capitalize on emerging trends and seize valuable opportunities.

During times of challenge, effective crisis management becomes paramount in maintaining investor confidence and safeguarding brand reputation. The Investor Pulse Report emerges as a trusted ally, offering real-time crisis monitoring capabilities and going the extra mile by uncovering emerging trends and sentiments. With these valuable insights, businesses can pre-emptively address concerns, transparently communicate action plans, and build trust to maintain unwavering investor confidence. As a result, the Investor Pulse Report enables businesses to navigate crises with resilience, emerging stronger and more durable than ever before.

To supercharge investor relations strategies, businesses can schedule a consultation with the irlabs team today and unlock the transformative power of the Investor Pulse Report. For more information, visit http://irlabs.ca/investor-pulse-report.

ABOUT IR LABS INC.

Driving investor engagement through creativity, purpose and honest communication. Investor relations from every angle. We are industry and sector agnostic and support both private and public companies with their investor relations programs, corporate communications and corporate governance. For more information, visit irlabs.ca.

CONTACT

Alyssa Barry

Principal and Co-Founder

IR Labs Inc.

alyssa@irlabs.ca

833-947-LABS (5227)

SOURCE: IR Labs Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/774375/irlabs-launches-investor-pulse-report-gain-insights-make-informed-decisions
Exterro, ACEDS, EDRM, and eDiscovery Today Co-Sponsoring Day of Education, Networking, and Celebration for E-Discovery Professionals

PORTLAND, Ore., Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Exterro Inc., the preferred provider of Legal GRC software specifically designed for in-house legal, privacy, and IT teams at Global 2000 and AmLaw 200 organizations, in partnership with the Association for Certified E-Discovery Specialists (ACEDS), the Electronic Discovery Reference Model (EDRM), and eDiscovery Today are pleased to announce the ninth annual celebration of E-Discovery Day will take place on December 7, 2023.



E-Discovery Day is an annual event in which the e-discovery industry comes together to celebrate the vital and growing role that e-discovery plays in the legal process. It is an industry-wide, vendor-neutral celebration started and spearheaded by Exterro that includes in-person educational and networking events, online webinars, CLE opportunities, social media conversation, and more. E-Discovery Day was started in 2015 by Exterro as an opportunity for legal professionals from around the world to come together to learn, network, and celebrate the important role they play in the legal process.

Exterro is excited to partner again with ACEDS and EDRM, whose strong connections to the e-discovery community help both build excitement for the event and ensure that educational activities provide real value to attendees, as well as with eDiscovery Today, the only daily go-to resource for e-discovery and eDisclosure professionals seeking to keep up with trends, best practices, and case law.

"We are honored to spearhead this day which connects legal professionals from across the world to learn and celebrate all things e-discovery," said Exterro Chief Marketing Officer Bill Piwonka. "Each year, the combination of E-Discovery Day educational sessions and networking events gets better, and e-discovery professionals look forward to this day all year!" said Doug Austin, Editor of eDiscovery Today. "eDiscovery Today is once again honored and excited to partner with Exterro, EDRM, and ACEDS in celebrating the ninth annual E-Discovery Day!"

Mary Mack, CEO and Chief Legal Technologist of EDRM, said, "EDRM is proud of our trusted partner, Exterro, for creating our very own e-discovery holiday where we can learn, gather, and celebrate with each other." EDRM, a proud sponsor of E-Discovery Day, will once again host the Gayle O'Connor Spirit Award and an EDRM panel this year on December 7th.

"Another year has flown by and we have a lot to celebrate on E-Discovery Day," said Mike Quartararo, president of ACEDS. "Thank you to Exterro, Mary Mack at EDRM, Doug Austin at E-Discovery Today and to my colleagues at ACEDS for collaborating once again to bring the e-discovery community together to acknowledge and commemorate the work of legal professionals across the industry. Happy E-Discovery Day everyone!"

Individuals looking to stay up to date on E-Discovery Day activities can visit e-discoveryday.com, powered by Exterro, and sign up for the email newsletter, which will keep you abreast of major developments.

About Exterro

Exterro empowers legal teams to manage their Legal Governance, Risk and Compliance.

About ACEDS

ACEDS is the world's leading educational organization specializing in training and certification in e-discovery, information governance, and related legal disciplines. ACEDS provides training and professional development courses to law firms, corporate legal departments, software and service providers, the government, and academic institutions. ACEDS is also a professional association with more 2500 active members who gather and network in 29 chapters formed in major U.S. cities, Canada, Ireland, the U.K., Benelux, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. Learn more at ACEDS.org.

About EDRM

Empowering the global leaders of e-discovery, the Electronic Discovery Reference Model.

About eDiscovery Today

Authored and edited by industry expert Doug Austin, eDiscovery Today is the only daily go-to resource for eDiscovery and eDisclosure professionals seeking to keep up with trends, best practices and case law in electronic discovery, information governance, cybersecurity, and data privacy. Doug has over 30 years of experience as an industry thought leader providing eDiscovery best practices, legal technology consulting, software product management and technical project management services for numerous commercial and government clients. In addition, Doug has provided fresh educational content through his blogging to the legal technology community every business day for nearly twelve years containing case abstracts, conference reviews, industry happenings, leadership interviews and more. Learn more at ediscoverytoday.com.

Contact:

Madeline Ayres

Exterro

Madeline.ayres@exterro.com
Chubb-led initiative addresses lack of capacity in marine cargo market for risks associated with lithium battery transit and stock

LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Chubb today announced the launch of a new Lloyd's of London consortium it will lead that is designed to provide insurance coverage for risks associated with the transit and storage of lithium batteries.

The consortium was created to address a lack of capacity in the marine cargo market for providing lithium battery transit and stock insurance. It provides a one-stop solution with limits up to $50 million for risk types associated with lithium batteries including transit, stock throughput, standalone stock and warehouse legal liability, and will include excess stock and part orders. It is led by Chubb Global Markets (CGM), the company's London Market wholesale and specialty business including its Lloyd's platform, and supported by 11 other Lloyd's syndicates. CGM will also draw on the capabilities of Chubb Climate+, the company's global climate business unit launched early in 2023.

Rob Wilson, Chief Underwriting Officer for Chubb Global Markets, said: "We're delighted to lead the creation of this battery consortium with the support of the Lloyd's market, utilising our in-house risk management capabilities to ensure its viability. The work involved in managing lithium battery risks is extensive and brokers can now use this facility to gain access to capacity in this new risk area. The consortium provides brokers and insureds with a single port of call to bind these risks, helping to shore up the lithium battery supply chain as demand continues to grow."

Matt Hardy, Leader of Chubb Climate+ for Chubb Overseas General, said: "The lithium battery industry is growing at a rapid rate and many businesses involved in moving and storing these batteries are increasingly in need of an experienced and reliable insurance partner and solution to support the ramp-up in production. The creation of a consortium dedicated to underwriting these risks aligns firmly with our commitment to harnessing our underwriting and risk engineering capabilities to support the transition to a low-carbon economy."

To learn more about the lithium battery consortium, please contact Alex O'Brien, Product Head - Cargo - Chubb Global Markets: alex.obrien@chubb.com

About Chubb

Chubb is the world's largest publicly traded property and casualty insurance company. With operations in 54 countries and territories, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. As an underwriting company, we assess, assume and manage risk with insight and discipline. We service and pay our claims fairly and promptly. The company is also defined by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength and local operations globally. Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Chubb maintains executive offices in Zurich, New York, London, Paris and other locations, and employs approximately 40,000 people worldwide. Additional information can be found at: www.chubb.com



Chubb Global Markets is a trading name of Chubb European Group SE (CEG) and Chubb Underwriting Agencies Limited (CUAL).

CEG is a Societas Europaea, a public company registered in accordance with the corporate law of the European Union. Members' liability is limited. CEG is headquartered in France and governed by the provisions of the French insurance code. Risks falling within the European Economic Area are underwritten by CEG, which is authorised and regulated by the French Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority. Registered company number: 450 327 374 RCS Nanterre. Registered office: La Tour Carpe Diem, 31 Place des Corolles, Esplanade Nord, 92400 Courbevoie, France. Fully paid share capital of 896,176,662.

CEG's UK branch is registered in England & Wales under UK Establishment number: BR023093. UK Establishment address: 100 Leadenhall Street, London EC3A 3BP. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority. Subject to regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority and limited regulation by the Prudential Regulation Authority. Details about the extent of our regulation by the Prudential Regulation Authority are available from us on request (FS Register number 820988).

CUAL is registered in England & Wales under number 2287773. Registered address: 100 Leadenhall Street, London EC3A 3BP. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (FS Register number 204901).

Details about our authorisation can be found on the Financial Conduct Authority website.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/324916/Chubb_Logo_v2.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/chubb-launches-lloyds-lithium-battery-consortium-301927826.html
Interview: Cuban expert highlights China's support to G77

Xinhua) 16:19, September 14, 2023

HAVANA, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- China has demonstrated continued support to the Group of 77 (G77), a Cuban expert said here in Havana.

"China has maintained a systematic and consistent policy supporting the multilateral bloc," Eduardo Regalado, a senior researcher at the International Policy Research Center of Cuba, said in a recent interview with Xinhua.

Regalado said that China has provided Global South countries with the means to express their needs, promote a collective economic interest and improve their joint negotiation capacity.

"China has been very active in promoting a fairer economic and political order in keeping with the interests of developing countries," said the expert.

Regalado said the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative significantly contributes to the prosperity of the Global South.

The researcher also highlighted China's decisive role in improving global security.

The G77 seeks to build a new global governance guided by the principles of inclusion, social justice and equity, said Regalado.

The G77 plus China Summit is slated to take place in Havana on Sept. 15 and 16.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Koppers Holdings Inc. (KOP) affirmed previous forecast for 2023 sales of approximately $2.1 billion, while increasing both adjusted EBITDA and adjusted earnings per share guidance. Adjusted EBITDA is now anticipated to be in the range of $250 million to $260 million, compared with $250 million previously. Adjusted EPS is now expected to be in the range of $4.30 to $4.60 per share, compared with $4.40 previously. CEO Leroy Ball said: 'We typically do not update guidance between reporting periods; however, we made an exception because we will be sharing news today that recent results are trending toward another record quarter as well as informing the investment community on our longer-term plan progress. This data represents another proof point that Koppers remains on track to reach our 2025 target of $300 million in adjusted EBITDA.' For more earnings news, earnings calendar, and earnings for stocks, visit rttnews.com. Copyright(c) 2023 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
TwentyFour Income Fund - Result of Annual General Meeting

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, September 14

TwentyFour Income Fund Limited

(a closed-ended investment company incorporated in Guernsey with registration number 56128)

LEI Number: 549300CCEV00IH2SU369

(The "Company")

14 SEPTEMBER 2023

RESULT OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

At the Annual General Meeting of the Company held today, all Resolutions set out in the Annual General Meeting Notice sent to Shareholders dated 15 August 2023 were duly passed.

Details of the proxy voting results which should be read along side the Notice are noted below:

Ordinary Resolution For Percentage In Favour 1 435,512,275 99.86 2 409,904,998 93.99 3 435,539,011 99.89 4 435,897,117 99.95 5 435,893,458 99.95 6 435,581,232 99.89 7 435,581,232 99.89 8 435,869,196 99.96 9 435,570,851 99.89 10 435,566,851 99.89 11 432,705,140 99.21 12 435,531,634 99.87 13 435,519,111 99.87 Extraordinary Resolution For Percentage in Favour 14 434,332,723 99.60 15 408,245,766 93.61

Note - A vote withheld is not a vote in law and has not been counted in the votes for and against a resolution.

The Extraordinary Resolutions were as follows:

Extraordinary Resolution 14

That, in substitution of all existing powers (but in addition to any power conferred on them by ordinary resolutions 12 and 13 above), the Directors be and are authorised generally and unconditionally in accordance with Article 6.7 of the Articles to exercise all powers of the Company to issue equity securities (as defined in Article 6.1.1(a)) for cash as if the members' pre-emption rights contained in Article 6.2 of the Articles did not apply to any such issue pursuant to the general authority conferred on them by ordinary resolutions 12 and 13 above (as varied from time to time by the Company in general meeting):

a) pursuant to an offer of equity securities open for acceptance for a period fixed by the Directors where the equity securities respectively attributable to the interests of holders of Ordinary Shares are proportionate (as nearly as may be) to the respective numbers of Ordinary Shares held by them but subject to such exclusions or other arrangements in connection with the issue as the Directors may consider necessary, appropriate or expedient to deal with equity securities representing fractional entitlements or to deal with legal or practical problems arising in any overseas territory, the requirements of any regulatory body or stock exchange, or any other matter whatsoever; and

b) provided that (otherwise than pursuant to sub-paragraph (a) above) this power shall be limited to the allotment of equity securities up to an aggregate nominal value equal to 10 per cent. of the total number of shares in issue in the Company at the date of the passing of this extraordinary resolution, and provided further that (i) the number of equity securities to which this power applies shall be reduced from time to time by the number of treasury shares which are sold pursuant to any power conferred on the Directors by ordinary resolution 11 above and (ii) no issue of equity securities shall be made under this power which would result in Ordinary Shares being issued at a price which is less than the net asset value per Ordinary Share as at the latest practicable date before such allotment of equity securities as determined by the Directors in their reasonable discretion, and such power hereby conferred shall expire on whichever is the earlier of: (i) the conclusion of the annual general meeting of the Company to be held in 2024; or (ii) the date 15 months after the date on which this extraordinary resolution is passed (unless renewed, varied or revoked by the Company prior to that date) save that the Company may, before such expiry, make offers or agreements which would or might require equity securities to be issued after such expiry and the Directors may issue equity securities in pursuance to such offers or agreements as if the authority conferred hereby had not expired.

Extraordinary Resolution 15

That, conditional on extraordinary resolution 14 above having been passed, in substitution of all existing powers (but in addition to any power conferred on them by ordinary resolutions 12 and 13 and in addition to and without prejudice to the power granted by extraordinary resolution 14 above), the Directors be and are authorised generally and unconditionally in accordance with Article 6.7 of the Articles to exercise all powers of the Company to issue equity securities (as defined in Article 6.1.1(a)) for cash as if the members' pre-emption rights contained in Article 6.2 of the Articles did not apply to any such issue pursuant to the general authority conferred on them by the ordinary resolutions 12 and 13 above (as varied from time to time by the Company in general meeting):

a) pursuant to an offer of equity securities open for acceptance for a period fixed by the Directors where the equity securities respectively attributable to the interests of holders of Ordinary Shares are proportionate (as nearly as may be) to the respective numbers of Ordinary Shares held by them but subject to such exclusions or other arrangements in connection with the issue as the Directors may consider necessary, appropriate or expedient to deal with equity securities representing fractional entitlements or to deal with legal or practical problems arising in any overseas territory, the requirements of any regulatory body or stock exchange, or any other matter whatsoever; and

b) provided that (otherwise than pursuant to sub-paragraph (a) above) this power shall be limited to the allotment of equity securities up to an aggregate nominal value equal to 10 per cent. of the total number of shares in issue in the Company at the date of the passing of this extraordinary resolution, and provided further that no issue of equity securities shall be made under this power which would result in Ordinary Shares being issued at a price which is less than the net asset value per Ordinary Share as at the latest practicable date before such allotment of equity securities as determined by the Directors in their reasonable discretion, and such power hereby conferred shall expire on whichever is the earlier of: (i) the conclusion of the annual general meeting of the Company to be held in 2024; or (ii) the date 15 months after the date on which this extraordinary resolution is passed (unless renewed, varied or revoked by the Company prior to that date) save that the Company may, before such expiry, make offers or agreements which would or might require equity securities to be issued after such expiry and the Directors may issue equity securities in pursuance to such offers or agreements as if the authority conferred hereby had not expired.

Enquiries:

Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited

The Company Secretary

Trafalgar Court

Les Banques

St Peter Port

Guernsey

GY1 3QL

Tel: 01481 745001

END
Brings Total to Four Branded Locations Under BP Contract and 10-Year Fuel Supply Agreement

KNOXVILLE, TN / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Blue Earth Resources, Inc. (the "Company," "we," "our," or "us") (OTC PINK:BERI) and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Fuel Trader Supply and Fuel Trader Resource Management, is pleased to announce the opening of three additional BP branded retail locations.

Blue Earth Resources is operating under its BP Branded Jobber Contract from June 2022 and has a 10-year supply agreement in place for an estimated 1.44 million gallons per year. These three additional openings since the initial opening in June 2023, demonstrates the acceleration of growth Blue Earth Resources had expected when it signed the agreement over a year ago. The three new locations are in Tennessee.

Lank N Nicks, the location at 7650 Hillsboro Hwy in Hillsboro, Tennessee, encompasses a 2,500 square-foot building and features 5 fueling positions along with a deli and a vape store. Hillsboro is a city in Coffee County, Tennessee, located southeast of Nashville.

101 Travel Center, the location at 7311 Highway 104 N in Cedar Grove, Tennessee, encompasses a 15,000 square-foot building and features 8 fueling positions, 5 lanes truck diesel and a Broasters Chicken. Cedar Grove is a city in Carroll County, Tennessee, the western part of the state.

Oxxo Market and Deli, the location at 1200 East Old Hickory Blvd in Madison, Tennessee, encompasses a 3,500 square-foot building and features 6 fueling positions, a Crispy Crunchy Chicken, authentic Mexican foods, produce and meat departments. Madison is a city in Davidson County, Tennessee, just northeast of Nashville.

Scott M. Boruff, Chief Executive Officer of Blue Earth Resources, commented, "We are excited to follow up the June opening of our first BP branded location with these three additional openings. The acceleration of our business with BP and local customers is gaining traction as we had expected. These three locations are anticipated to purchase 4 million gallons per year in aggregate. We are looking forward to rolling out additional BP branded locations through the end of the year."

About Blue Earth Resources, Inc. (OTC PINK:BERI)

Blue Earth Resources, Inc. procures refined fuels from refineries and wholesalers and distributes it to both large retailers and single site operators. Our solution represents lower risk and more stable pricing to our vendors and customers. In addition, our custom branding services include imaging, design and consultation services to assist with custom branding. Blue Earth Resources, Inc. is headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee.

For additional information, please visit: https://berifuels.com

Forward-looking Statements:

Certain statements contained herein are forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements that are predictions of or indicate future events, trends, plans, or objectives. Undue reliance should not be placed on such statements because, by their nature, they are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future activities and are subject to many risks and uncertainties. Due to such risks and uncertainties, actual events may differ materially from those reflected or contemplated in such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of the future tense or other forward-looking words such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "should," "may," "will," "continue," "strategy," "position," "opportunity," statements regarding the "flexibility" of the Company or the negative of any of those terms or other variations of them or by comparable terminology.

Investor Contacts:

Scott M. Boruff, CEO

investorrelations@berifuels.com

888-462-2374

ClearThink IR

nyc@clearthink.capital

SOURCE: Blue Earth Resources, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783897/blue-earth-resources-accelerates-its-growth-with-the-branding-of-three-additional-bp-retail-locations
Vancouver, British Columbia and Ottawa, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Hypercharge Networks Corp. (NEO: HC) (OTCQB: HCNWF) (FSE: PB7) (the "Company" or "Hypercharge"), a leading, smart electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions provider, is pleased to announce it has been selected by Campanale Homes to supply six Level 2 charging stations to their residential development in Ottawa, ON, with installation due to be completed by the end of 2023.

Campanale Homes is a real estate developer that specializes in commercial leasing and sales, rental property development and management, and new home building. For over 40 years, Campanale Homes has remained steadfast in its unwavering commitment to bringing award-winning craftsmanship, exceptional quality, and affordability to the Ottawa region.

The deal closed in collaboration with Hypercharge Preferred Partner, DCore Electric, which will complete the installation of all charging stations. DCore Electric is an electrical contractor serving the Eastern Ontario region, renowned for its expertise and reliability in the electrical industry.

"We are thrilled to partner with DCore Electric to bring EV charging to Campanale Homes' new development," said Chris Koch, Head of Growth & Partnerships at Hypercharge. "This partnership aligns seamlessly with Campanale Homes' sustainability goals, and leverages DCore Electric's excellent reputation in the electrical industry."

2023 Kinvestor Days Virtual Conference Tech Day

Hypercharge is also announcing that David Bibby, President & CEO of the Company, is scheduled to present at the 2023 Kinvestor Days Virtual Conference Tech Day on September 20, 2023 at 10:00 am PT (1:00 pm ET).

This year's Kinvestor Days is a 2-day virtual conference featuring a lineup of companies in the mining and technology industries. Hosted by Kin Communications president Arlen Hansen, presenting companies will have the opportunity to share their latest developments and answer questions from attendees.

Registration for the event can be found at:

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/5916926296770/WN_T-UkYKxYR66v8mUFoVsxGw

-##-

About Hypercharge

Hypercharge Networks Corp. (NEO: HC) (OTC: HCNWF) (FSE: PB7) is a leading provider of smart electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions that offers turnkey technology to multi-unit residential and commercial buildings, fleet operations, and other rapidly growing sectors. Driven by its mission to accelerate EV adoption and enable the shift towards a carbon neutral economy, Hypercharge is committed to providing seamless, simple charging solutions by offering industry-leading equipment and a robust network of public and private charging stations. Learn more: https://hypercharge.com/.

On behalf of the company,

Hypercharge Networks Corp.

David Bibby, President & CEO

Investor Relations:

Kelsey Letham | Head of Investor Relations

invest@hypercharge.com

604-881-1730

Media Contact:

Kyle Green | Senior Marketing Manager

kyle.green@hypercharge.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "may", "should", "anticipate", "will", "estimates", "believes", "intends", "expects" and similar expressions which are intended to identify forward-looking statements. More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements regarding the timing of the Project, the Company's installation partners and attendance at certain investor conferences. Forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and the actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, assumptions and expectations, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Readers are cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, as such information, although considered reasonable by management of the Company at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release, and are expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statement. Except as expressly required by securities law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither NEO Exchange Inc. nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in policies of NEO Exchange Inc.) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180507
Halifax, Nova Scotia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Antler Gold Inc. (TSXV: ANTL) ("Antler" or "Company") is pleased to provide a corporate update, emphasizing its commitment to a diversified business model that generates both short and long-term revenue opportunities.

Highlights

New license for the prospective Paresis Gold Project issued, located in northern Namibia within the 'gold corridor' that hosts the Otjikoto (B2Gold), Ondundu and recently discovered Eureka gold deposits (Osino Resources).

New license issued on the Onkoshi Gold Project in central Namibia bordering to the south-east of the known Erindi and Vredelus gold prospects.

New license issued for the Ziggy Cu Project in southern Namibia with historical grab sample grading 13% Cu.

"Antler's project generation strategy has yielded tangible results, which have translated into successful option and purchase agreements, resulting in not only financial gains but also potential valuable royalty and equity interests. Our geologists remain engaged in evaluating prospects across Southern Africa, securing a pipeline of opportunities for future exploration partnerships. Looking ahead for the rest of 2023, our priority lies in bolstering our project portfolio, while advancing existing joint ventures and reinforcing our commitment to expanding our current offerings," said Christopher Drysdale, CEO of Antler Gold Inc.

Exploration Summary

Paresis Gold Project, Namibia

The Paresis Gold Project (PGP) licences lie within the 'gold corridor' that hosts the Otjikoto (B2Gold), Ondundu (0.9 Moz @ 1.13 g/t), and recently discovered Eureka gold deposits (Osino Resources). The PGP is targeting intrusion-related gold mineralisation within the complex and surrounding geological environment. These deposits share an Au-Bi-Te-As metal signature and an association with post-orogenic intrusions. The presence of three cycles of both volcanic and plutonic events along with structural complexity present optimal conditions for the deposition of rare and precious metals. Deposit types to be investigated include sheeted vein-systems, vein-disseminations in carbonaceous rocks and intrusion-proximal to outer-aureole types.

The Paresis Igneous Complex is a Cretaceous-aged (135-120 Ma) alkaline igneous complex (occasionally classified as peralkaline) situated within the Northern Zone (NZ) of the highly fertile Damara Orogenic Belt. Historical exploration conducted by Goldfields, during the late 1980's, targeting epithermal gold associated with caldera structures and anomalous gold values of 100-200 ppb were recorded for units associated with the complex.

Antler is targeting intrusion-related gold mineralisation within the complex and surrounding geological environment. Deposit types to be investigated include sheeted vein-systems, vein-disseminations in carbonaceous rocks and intrusion-proximal to outer-aureole types.

The Environmental Clearance Certificate has been issued and exploration can commence on the license. Initial desktop geophysical interpretation of regional airborne magnetic and radiometric data will be done to map the responses of the Damaran bedrock. Soil and calcrete sampling campaigns are also planned for the first phase of the project.

The license holds the same stratigraphic units that host the Otjikoto Gold Mine (B2Gold) and recent Eureka gold discovery (Osino Resources). The license it situated approximated 20 km south-east from the town of Outjo in the Otjozondjupa region (Figure 1).





Figure 1: Map of the location of EPL 8711 within the Paresis Gold Project.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5124/180608_9868d5ad94e3286a_001full.jpg

Onkoshi South-East (SE), Namibia

Onkoshi SE is situated on a newly awarded Exclusive Prospecting License, EPL 8991, contiguous with EPL 7464, forming part of the main Onkoshi Gold Project which is an Antler PG project (see Press Release dated April 13, 2022: Antler Gold Announces Agreement to Acquire the Onkoshi Gold Project in Namibia) (Figure 2). The license area holds a target similar to the WIA Gold Kokoseb Gold Project (MRE of 1.3 Moz at 1.0 g/t Au), a granite dome-like feature that presents a potential source of mineralising fluid and heat, along with favourable structural complexity for deposition of precious and rare metals.

The area of interest on the Onkoshi SE licence contains a roughly circular magnetic body, ~6km across, coinciding with syn-tectonic granite intrusives (Salem Igneous Suite) and is situated ~30 km from the historic Erindi and Vredelus gold prospects (EPL 7464). The magnetic body appears to form a potato-like feature around which the Swakop Group metasediments of the Damara sequence are wrapping.

The Onkoshi SE Gold Project is targeting intrusion-related gold mineralisation within the complex and surrounding geological environment. The presence of extensive granite plutonism in this area along with potential structural and chemical traps between the granite and metasediments present optimal conditions for the deposition of rare and precious metals. Deposit types to be investigated include sheeted vein-systems, vein-disseminations in carbonaceous rocks and intrusion-proximal to outer-aureole types.

An application for an Environmental Clearance Certificate is underway. Initial desktop geophysical interpretation of regional airborne magnetic and radiometric data will be completed as soon as possible. Reconnaissance mapping and rock chip sampling campaigns are planned.





Figure 2: Location of the two Onkoshi Gold Project EPL's, EPL 8991 and EPL 7464.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5124/180608_9868d5ad94e3286a_002full.jpg

Ziggy Cu Project, Namibia

The Ziggy Cu project is situated on a newly awarded Exclusive Prospecting License, EPL 8937 located in Mooifontein, near Helmeringhausen in southern Namibia. Copper mineralisation on the project is closely linked with a shear zone which is located within amphibolite-grade gneisses of the Namaqualand Metamorphic Complex (Figure 3). The geological setting of the mineralisation at Mooifontein consists of a 10-15 m wide zone of intense structural deformation which can be followed for over 5 km. Quartz veins are associated with the shear zone and define a wider zone of up to 200 m. Numerous massive ironstone pods are contained within the shear zone, while malachite staining is common in zones between 1-2 m wide.

Limited historic exploration work has been done on this prospect and is limited to a few pits and four diamond drill holes drilled in the 1970's which were not sampled. Much of the shear zone, covered by a thin veneer of Nama Group sediments, was never prospected and may host similar mineralised structures which are presently concealed. More recently, in 2008, a historical rock grab sample with noticeable malachite staining taken from the shear zone was submitted for assaying and returned 13% Cu (Figure 4).

To explore this shear zone more comprehensively, fieldwork encompassing mapping, sampling, and ground geophysics is planned, particularly in areas that are underlying younger Nama Group sediments. The license it situated approximately 5 km south-east from the town of Helmeringhausen in the Karas Region.





Figure 3: License location of the Ziggy Cu Project

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5124/180608_9868d5ad94e3286a_003full.jpg





Figure 4: Grab sample taken in the shear zone at the Ziggy Cu project - historical assay result of 13%.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5124/180608_9868d5ad94e3286a_004full.jpg

About Antler Gold Inc.

Antler Gold Inc. (TSXV: ANTL) is a Canadian listed mineral exploration company focused on project generation and organic royalty creation in Africa's Top-Ranked Jurisdictions. The Company continues to assess new regional opportunities with the aim of building a diversified business model, that allows the company to generate short and long-term revenue opportunities whilst providing stakeholders with exposure to potential multiple returns that are generated from the discovery process.

Historical Sample Results

Historical sample assay results were obtained from previous exploration activities conducted by other entities and may not comply with current standards for quality assurance. While these results provide valuable geological information, they should be treated with caution and not solely relied upon. The Company has not independently verified these historical results, and they are presented here for reference purposes only. The Company plans to conduct its own sampling and analysis to confirm and update the data in compliance with current regulatory requirements.

Qualified Person

The technical and scientific information in this presentation has been reviewed and approved by Oliver Tors: Pr.Sci.Nat., B. Sc (Hons)., Exploration Manager of the Company, who is registered Professional Natural Scientist (Pr.Sci.Nat. No. 120660) with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) who is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. Mr. Tors is an employee of Antler Gold Inc. and is not independent of the Company under NI 43-101.

Cautionary Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking information, such as statements regarding the exploration properties and activities. This information is based on current expectations and assumptions (including assumptions relating to general economic and market conditions) that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Actual results may differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking information. Antler Gold does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking information in this release, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward-looking information unless and until required by securities laws applicable to Antler Gold. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in the filings made by Antler Gold with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedar.com.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For further information, please contact Christopher Drysdale, CEO of Antler Gold Inc., at +264 81 220 2439

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180608
SCOTTSDALE, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Envela Corporation (NYSE American:ELA) ("Envela" or the "Company") today announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Steven Kretchmer, Inc., a well-established jewelry manufacturer, which will help diversify and enhance Envela's Consumer Division. Under the terms of the agreement, Claudia Kretchmer and the current Kretchmer management team will continue to lead the company.

The transaction will be funded by cash on hand. After the acquisition, the manufacturer will continue to be based in Scottsdale, Arizona, and maintain its employee base. It will operate as a subsidiary within Envela's Consumer Division. The Company believes this acquisition aligns perfectly with its vision to broaden customer offerings and will create value for shareholders.

"We are excited to onboard the iconic jewelry house of Steven Kretchmer, a brand we have long held in high regard," said Allison DeStefano, Head of Envela's Consumer Division. "This acquisition will significantly enhance our offerings and add to our family the skilled employees who have helped build this quintessential American manufacturing company. This strategic acquisition augments our growth strategy that has yielded impressive results over the past six years and further propels our compelling re-commerce growth story," added DeStefano.

Claudia Kretchmer, CEO of Steven Kretchmer, said, "We are elated to join forces with Envela and leverage their significant resources and capabilities. With Envela's guidance, Steven Kretchmer will thrive and continue to strengthen its iconic standing, while advancing the two companies' shared commitment to environmental sourcing and stewardship. Together, we will write the next promising chapter for Steven Kretchmer, creating treasured heirlooms for future generations in a sustainable way. We are thrilled to be part of a purpose-inspired and sustainability-focused company that is recognized as a great place to work."

About Steven Kretchmer Jewelers

With a heritage spanning generations of jewelers, the creations designed and crafted by the Kretchmer family have adorned European royalty and captivated celebrities. Steven Kretchmer is celebrated as a visionary in the jewelry industry, recognized for its unmatched innovation and expertise in transforming precious metals into exquisite, timeless masterpieces. Under the leadership of Claudia Kretchmer, the company is driven by an unwavering dedication to meticulous design and craftsmanship that stand the test of time, where jewelry becomes treasured heirlooms for generations to come.

Moreover, Steven Kretchmer's technological innovations and remarkable collection of 14 patents have forever changed the landscape of jewelry design. The company has consistently showcased innovative metallurgy and cutting-edge technology, including advanced work with alloys (e.g., mokume gane and magnetic platinum, and custom-colored alloys), pioneering the availability of purple gold, and its signature Tension-SetTM jewelry. Last year, a Steven Kretchmer custom platinum and diamond ring sold at auction for more than $74,000, including the buyer's premium.

About Envela

Envela is a leading provider of re-commerce services at the forefront of the circular economy. The Company is comprised of primarily two key business segments: Consumer and Commercial. The Consumer segment operates retail stores and online sites that offer premium brands and luxury hard assets, while the Commercial segment provides personalized re-commerce solutions to meet the needs of various clients, including Fortune 500 companies. At Envela, we execute with passion, and with meticulous attention to detail.

At Envela, we Reuse, Recycle, and Reimagine. To learn more, visit Envela.com and follow our social media channels on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements?This press release includes statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements, including statements regarding acquisitions, financial outlook, and the potential future success of business lines and strategies. These statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements inherently involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Factors that would cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, market conditions and other risks detailed in the Company's periodic report filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. By making these statements, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release except as required by law.

Investor Relations Contact:?

Investor Relations?

1901 Gateway Drive | Irving, TX 75038?

investorrelations@envela.com

SOURCE: Envela Corporation

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783756/envela-expands-vertically-with-acquisition
Study from The Harris Poll Thought Leadership and Futures Practice finds LGBTQIA+ community, especially younger generations, is committed to pushing back against attacks on rights

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / With new laws, court verdicts, and political rhetoric on marriage equality, trans athletes, gender-neutral bathrooms, drag queen shows, and other issues, new research from The Harris Poll Thought Leadership and Futures Practice finds a near-unanimous belief in the LGBTQIA+ community that their rights are in jeopardy. But the research also reveals the extraordinary levels of that community's political activism - and an unexpected optimism about the long-term future of LGBTQIA+ rights in America.





The study, "Inclusive Insights: LGBTQIA+ & Advocacy," is based on a custom survey by The Harris Poll conducted online within the United States from May 26 to June 1 among 1,110 LGBTQIA+ adults aged 18 and over. (LGBTQIA+ is an acronym for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual, and other identities.)

"You might expect that some people within the LGBTQIA+ community are concerned about their rights, given societal trends and recent events," said Tim Osiecki, Senior Research Manager at The Harris Poll Thought Leadership and Futures Practice. "And indeed, our research shows that the concern is almost universally shared. It also shows that the community - especially younger members from the Gen Z and Millennial generations - is responding with a broad and significant commitment to efforts to preserve those rights and that they ultimately believe the tide will turn."

A chief finding of the study is that the LGBTQIA+ community is deeply concerned about legislation passed or advancing at the state and federal levels. Respondents were almost unanimous (98%) in their concern that one or more existing rights could be taken away from LGBTQIA+ people.

Four out of five (81%) agreed with the statement "With hundreds of anti-LGBTQIA+ bills pending legislation in the U.S., I feel very nervous about my rights as an LGBTQIA+ individual." Even more (85%) agreed that "There are many groups within the LGBTQIA+ community that often get overlooked or picked on by politicians and lawmakers."

Respondents' top concerns:

Protection against discrimination in schools (87%)

Discrimination protection in the workplace (85%)

Right to access housing (84%)

Right to get married (83%)

LGBTQIA+ inclusive education (83%)

However, the community is far from despairing - LGBTQIA+ people are putting time, energy, creativity, money, and votes into defending their rights. More than nine out of 10 (93%) LGBTQIA+ people reported taking some sort of political action other than voting to defend their rights.

The study found that the vast majority (84%) of LGBTQIA+ people vote regularly, with 71% voting in federal elections and 67% in local elections - well above typical nationwide marks of about 52% and 12 to 25%, respectively.

Over half (58%) donate money, about a third march or protest (39%), attend political events (32%), or write letters (30%) advocating for their rights. More than one in three (37%) said they have considered running for political office - and that percentage jumps to 60% among transgender respondents.

The study also found that members of younger generations (Gen Z, Millennials) are more likely to engage in activism than older members of the LGBTQIA+ community - in some areas, twice as likely. For example, 34% of younger LGBTQIA+ people have volunteered or worked on a campaign, compared to 19% of their older counterparts; 29% of younger generations belong to organized groups that engage in political efforts, compared to 13% of older generations.

The study also closely examined specific issues such as the drag queen bans that have received prominent media coverage. Eight out of 10 respondents said they were concerned about those bans (81%) and feared they could "snowball into lawmakers taking away more and more rights" (80%).

In addition, the study focused on issues faced by subsets of the LGBTQIA+ community, people who identify as BIPOC or transgender.

Almost three-quarters (72%) of queer BIPOC (Black, indigenous, people of color) members said they had trouble finding communities and resources that understand them, and about two-thirds (64%) have to "code switch" or change how they communicate to fit in with the two communities. Almost half (48%) said they have had to relocate to avoid hostile laws or political environments (compared to 40% of queer non-BIPOC members).

Possibly reflecting the current political climate, nearly nine out of 10 (87%) trans people agreed with the statement "Our society values humanity in AI and robots more than in trans people." More than six out of 10 (62%) said they have relocated due to hostile laws or political environments.

And yet, even as they hold deep concerns about rhetoric and legislation and devote themselves to political activism to defend their rights, people in the LGBTQIA+ community still hold optimism about the future. A strong majority (84%) agreed with the statement "I am hopeful that things are going to improve on the LGBTQIA+ rights" and about two out of three said that the improvement might be soon, agreeing that "I think it's likely that things will improve for LGBTQIA+ rights within the next five years."

"It's clear from this study and our previous work that the country's LGBTQIA+ community believes that though our society has made progress on these issues, we still need to work to preserve and expand the community's rights, and that people believe that progress is not only possible but probable," Osiecki said.

For more information, please visit The Harris Poll Thought Leadership Practice or subscribe to their newsletter, The Next Big Think, for the latest research.

About Harris Poll Thought Leadership Practice

Building on 50+ years of experience pulsing societal opinion, we design research that is credible, creative, and culturally relevant. Our practice drives thought leadership and unearthed trends for today's biggest brands. We are focused on helping our clients get ahead of what is next.

About Harris Poll

The Harris Poll is one of the longest-running surveys in the U.S., tracking public opinion, motivations, and social sentiment since 1963, and is now part of Harris Insights & Analytics, a global consulting and market research firm that delivers social intelligence for transformational times. We work with clients in three primary areas: building 21st-century corporate reputation, crafting brand strategy and performance tracking, and earning organic media through public relations research. Our mission is to provide insights and guidance to help leaders make the best decisions possible. To learn more, please visit www.theharrispoll.com.

Contact Information

Madeleine Moench

Media and Content Strategist

madeleine.moench@issuerdirect.com

SOURCE: Harris Poll

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/780848/americas-lgbtqia-community-deeply-concerned-about-losing-rights-but-optimistic-about-the-long-term-future-new-harris-survey-shows
"Oscars of Science" Awards $3 Million Prizes for Advances against Cancer, Cystic Fibrosis, Parkinson's Disease; Deep Insights into Quantum Field Theory and Differential Geometry

Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences Awarded to Carl June and Michel Sadelain; Sabine Hadida, Paul Negulescu and Fredrick Van Goor; Thomas Gasser, Ellen Sidransky and Andrew Singleton

Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics Awarded to John Cardy and Alexander Zamolodchikov

Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics Awarded to Simon Brendle

Six New Horizons Prizes Awarded for Early-Career Achievements in Physics and Mathematics

Three Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prizes Awarded to Women Mathematicians for Early-Career Achievements

Laureates to be Honored at Gala Award Ceremony in Los Angeles on April 13, 2024

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Breakthrough Prize Foundation today announced the winners of the 2024 Breakthrough Prizes, honoring an esteemed group of the world's most brilliant minds for impactful scientific discoveries, including a subset responsible for substantial progress in the understanding and treatment of major diseases.

Science is an endless revolution. Diseases that looked unbeatable twenty years ago can now be managed or cured. Our deepest physics theories explain the world to staggering precision. And in the realm of mathematics, new ideas are reaching into the borderlands of the unknown. The Breakthrough Prize - popularly known as the "Oscars of Science" - was created to celebrate the wonders of our scientific age by founding sponsors Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Julia and Yuri Milner, and Anne Wojcicki.

The Prize's latest slate of laureates are driving this revolution onwards. They include 11 winners of the Breakthrough Prizes in Life Sciences, Fundamental Physics, and Mathematics, sharing five $3 million prizes between them; 12 early-career physicists and mathematicians sharing six $100,000 New Horizons in Physics Prizes; and three women mathematicians who recently completed their PhDs, each receiving a $50,000 Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize. This year's prize money comes to a total of $15.75 million, bringing the amount conferred over the thirteen years of the Breakthrough Prize to $308 million.

Life Sciences

This year's Life Sciences laureates include honorees recognized for key advances in the fight against three major diseases - cancer, cystic fibrosis, and Parkinson's disease.

Carl June and Michel Sadelain genetically engineered T cells - key players in the body's immune system - with synthetic receptors termed chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) to instruct T cells to recognize the cancer cells of individual patients. These CAR T cells have remarkable rates of success against liquid cancers including types of leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. For some patients, the tumors have been entirely eradicated and have not returned, years after treatment.

Sabine Hadida, Paul Negulescu and Fredrick Van Goor invented the first effective medicines to treat the underlying cause of cystic fibrosis. This deadly disease of the lungs and other organs is caused by a protein that can't do its job of allowing ions in and out of cells. These researchers discovered four medicines, the latest of which is a triple combination medicine, that enables the protein to function, greatly improving quality of life - and length of life - for people with this disease.

Thomas Gasser, Ellen Sidransky andAndrew Singleton discovered the most common genetic causes of Parkinson's Disease. Sidransky identified mutations to the gene GBA1, which encodes an enzyme that breaks down fatty substances in cells, as a genetic risk factor for Parkinson's; while Gasser and Singleton independently showed that mutations in the LRRK2 gene result in increased activity of a protein believed to contribute to neuronal damage in the disease. These discoveries offer clues to the mechanisms that cause the disease, pointing to the role of the lysosome, the cellular organelle that degrades and recycles cellular components.

Fundamental Physics

In fundamental physics, John Cardy and Alexander Zamolodchikov have contributed a lifetime of deep insights into quantum field theories, which describe not only particle physics, but emergent phenomena from magnetism and superconducting materials to the information content of black holes, and have also become a rich field of study in mathematics.

Mathematics

Mathematician Simon Brendle has contributed a series of remarkable leaps in differential geometry, a field that uses the tools of calculus to study curves, surfaces and spaces. Many of his results concern the shape of surfaces, as well as manifolds in higher dimensions than those we experience in everyday life.

"The work of these laureates is very impressive - whether it's exploring abstract ideas or unraveling the causes of human diseases and producing effective treatments that impact millions of lives."

-Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg

"Humanity's collective intelligence is our most significant achievement. Great scientists, and Breakthrough Prize laureates among them, are at the forefront of this incredible phenomenon in our Universe."

-Yuri Milner

"Every year I'm inspired by the ideas, discoveries and commitment to progress of the women and men who win the Breakthrough Prize."

-Anne Wojcicki

"Oscars of Science"

The laureates will be celebrated next April 13th at the 10th annual Breakthrough Prize ceremony, held in Los Angeles. The Breakthrough Prize ceremony is the only one of its kind that places scientists on center stage, and is attended by luminaries in film, sports, comedy, and music, to lend their spotlight to shine on scientists.

Last year's ceremony - the first in Los Angeles - was hosted by James Corden and featured Kristen Bell, Magnus Carlsen, Lily Collins, Danny DeVito, Robert Downey Jr., Gal Gadot, Mae Jemison, Brie Larson, Edward Norton, Leslie Odom Jr., Chris Pine, Lauren Ridloff and Chloe Zhao, with music from John Legend, will.i.am and Estelle. Video highlights and photos can be found here.

Early-Career Researchers

Early-career researchers across a range of fields are also recognized, including nine researchers making big strides in astronomy and cosmology. New Horizons in PhysicsPrizes recognize Michael Johnson and Alexandru Lupsasca, who detected photon rings - light trapped in orbit around black holes - and deduced their structure; Laura M. Perez, Paola Pinilla, Nienke van der Marel and Til Birnstiel, who discovered and characterized dust traps - regions of dynamic rings of gas and dust around stars where dust particles aggregate; andMikhail Ivanov, Oliver Philcox and Marko Simonovic, who studied the structure of the cosmos at the galactic scale, and found ways to use that knowledge to bring fresh insights to fundamental physics.

Physics and mathematics today are deeply interconnected, with discoveries from one discipline frequently lending powerful tools and concepts to the other. This year, the New Horizons in MathematicsPrize is awarded toRoland Bauerschmidt for his work in probability theory and the renormalization group - a concept that emerged from the quantum field theories studied by this year's Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics winners, and has become an important object of study in mathematics. Angkana Ruland is honored for work also touching on ideas derived from physics, such as transitions between states of matter, which are now studied in mathematical fields including analysis, the branch of pure mathematics that emerged from calculus. And Michael Groechenig receives the Prize for his insights into arithmetic geometry.

For work in algebraic geometry,Hannah Larson wins the Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize; alongside Laura Monk for her discoveries about hyperbolic surfaces; and Mayuko Yamashita, for contributions to mathematical physics and index theory.

Full Citations for 2024 Laureates

2024 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences

Carl H. June

Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania

Michel Sadelain

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

For the development of chimeric antigen receptor T cell immunotherapy whereby the patient's T cells are modified to target and kill cancer cells.

2024 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences

Sabine Hadida

Paul Negulescu

Fredrick Van Goor

Vertex Pharmaceuticals

For developing life-transforming drug combinations that repair the defective chloride channel protein in patients with cystic fibrosis.

2024 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences

Thomas Gasser

Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tubingen and German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases

Ellen Sidransky

National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health

Andrew Singleton

National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health

For identifying GBA1 and LRRK2 as risk genes for Parkinson's disease, implicating autophagy and lysosomal biology as critical contributors to the pathogenesis of the disease.

2024 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics

John Cardy

All Souls College, University of Oxford

Alexander Zamolodchikov

Stony Brook University

For profound contributions to statistical physics and quantum field theory, with diverse and far-reaching applications in different branches of physics and mathematics.

2024 Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics

Simon Brendle

Columbia University

For transformative contributions to differential geometry, including sharp geometric inequalities, many results on Ricci flow and mean curvature flow and the Lawson conjecture on minimal tori in the 3-sphere.

2024 New Horizons in Physics Prize

Michael Johnson

Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian

Alexandru Lupsasca

Vanderbilt University

For elucidating the sub-structure and universal characteristics of black hole photon rings, and their proposed detection by next-generation interferometric experiments.

2024 New Horizons in Physics Prize

Mikhail Ivanov

MIT

Oliver Philcox

Columbia University and Simons Foundation

Marko Simonovic

University of Florence

For contributions to our understanding of the large-scale structure of the universe and the development of new tools to extract fundamental physics from galaxy surveys.

2024 New Horizons in Physics Prize

Laura M. Perez

Universidad de Chile

Paola Pinilla

University College London

Nienke van der Marel

Leiden Observatory

Til Birnstiel

Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen

For the prediction, discovery, and modeling of dust traps in young circumstellar disks, solving a long-standing problem in planet formation.

2024 New Horizons in Mathematics Prize

Roland Bauerschmidt

New York University

For outstanding contributions to probability theory and the development of renormalisation group techniques.

Michael Groechenig

University of Toronto

For contributions to the theory of rigid local systems and applications of p-adic integration to mirror symmetry and the fundamental lemma.

Angkana Ruland

University of Bonn

For contributions to applied analysis, in particular the analysis of microstructure in solid-solid phase transitions and the theory of inverse problems.

2024 Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize

Hannah Larson

University of California, Berkeley

(PhD Stanford University 2022)

For advances in Brill-Noether theory and the geometry of the moduli space of curves.

Laura Monk

University of Bristol

(PhD University of Strasbourg 2021)

For advancing our understanding of random hyperbolic surfaces of large genus.

Mayuko Yamashita

Kyoto University

(PhD University of Tokyo 2022)

For contributions to mathematical physics, index theory.

About The Breakthrough Prize

For the 12th year, the Breakthrough Prize, renowned as the "Oscars of Science," recognizes the world's top scientists. Each prize is $3 million and presented in the fields of Life Sciences, Fundamental Physics and Mathematics. In addition, up to three New Horizons in Physics Prizes, up to three New Horizons in Mathematics Prizes and up to three Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prizes are given out to early-career researchers each year. Laureates attend a gala award ceremony designed to celebrate their achievements and inspire the next generation of scientists.

The Breakthrough Prizes were founded by Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Julia and Yuri Milner, and Anne Wojcicki and have been sponsored by foundations established by them. Selection Committees composed of previous Breakthrough Prize laureates in each field choose the winners. Information on the Breakthrough Prize is available at breakthroughprize.org.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210947/Picture1.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/breakthrough-prize-announces-2024-laureates-in-life-sciences-fundamental-physics-and-mathematics-301927915.html
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / In the ever-changing world of trading, where complexities and uncertainties often dominate, finding a guiding light that leads to consistent success can be a game-changing experience. One company that is truly making its mark in the field of trading education is SAC Traders, an innovative institution led by the visionary Osmel Garcia.

Osmel's journey of trial and triumph forms the bedrock of SAC Traders' teaching philosophy. He understood the challenges that Spanish-speaking individuals faced in the trading world: limited access to clear and reliable information, resulting in misguided actions and untapped potential. This realization inspired him to create SAC Traders, a pioneering institution that challenges norms by delivering practical knowledge, results-driven strategies, and a community-centric approach.

SAC Traders doesn't merely teach trading techniques; it's about shaping mindsets and empowering individuals to take control of their financial futures. The company's dedication to education transcends the trading realm; it serves as a guiding beacon of financial literacy in a world where misinformation and uncertainty can impede progress.

Backed by a solid track record of consistent and profitable trading, SAC Traders has earned recognition from esteemed brokers like NinjaTrader and Folionet, both regulated in the United States. This recognition underscores SAC Traders' commitment to excellence and the unparalleled education it provides.

The impact of SAC Traders is undeniable. Osmel's unique teaching style and his knack for simplifying complex concepts deeply resonate with his students. From hosting free monthly courses that draw hundreds of participants to cultivating a community of successful and consistent traders, SAC Traders is leaving an indelible mark on the world of trading education.

More than just imparting knowledge, SAC Traders instigates a shift in mindset, equipping individuals with the mental resilience required to surmount challenges and seize opportunities. Success stories from SAC Traders' alumni, who have transitioned from financial struggles to freedom, vividly underscore the efficacy of the company's approach.

Looking to the future, SAC Traders harbors ambitious plans to expand its influence. Osmel's vision of traversing the Americas to offer top-tier trading education to Spanish-speaking individuals exemplifies the company's dedication to financial empowerment. SAC Traders envisions auditoriums filled not only with eager learners but with individuals whose lives have been genuinely transformed through education, empowerment, and actionable steps.

About SAC Traders:

SAC Traders, under the leadership of Osmel Garcia, stands as a pioneering institution in the trading education sphere. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to excellence, SAC Traders delivers comprehensive trading education, results-driven strategies, and a supportive community for individuals aspiring to achieve consistent and profitable trading outcomes. With a focus on empowering Spanish-speaking traders, SAC Traders bridges the gap between trading education and tangible success.

Contact:

Paula Henderson

561-768-4444

phendersonnews@gmail.com

SOURCE: SAC Traders

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784070/sac-traders-guiding-you-to-financial-success-through-expert-trading-education
Demeetra to broaden synthetic biology and bioprocessing technology through combined CRISPR/Cas9 IP and Demeetra's own dimeric Cas-CLOVER.

DUBLIN and DALLAS, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ERS Genomics Limited ('ERS') is pleased to announce a new license agreement with Demeetra AgBio ('Demeetra'). This is a non-exclusive licensing agreement granting Demeetra access to the ERS CRISPR/Cas9 patent portfolio which is sublicensable when combined with Cas-CLOVER.

ERS founder, Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier, won the 2020 Nobel Prize for the discovery of CRISPR/Cas9. The ERS patent portfolio is the definitive collection of proprietary rights to this gene editing technology.

Demeetra, headquartered in Kentucky, is a biotechnology company whose core focus is developing and optimizing gene editing technologies in commercially applicable systems. Demeetra's technologies and know-how are transferred to its partners through simple commercial licenses with freedom to operate.

Commenting on the deal, Jack Crawford, CEO of Demeetra stated: "We're excited about the ERS license, granting us access to the CRISPR IP portfolio; synergizing perfectly with our dimeric Cas-CLOVER. This powerful combination will be available for sublicensing in bioprocessing and synthetic biology applications."

Eric Rhodes, CEO, ERS Genomics was equally positive about the new licensee: "Demeetra's commitment to enabling scientific advancement harmonizes seamlessly with our mission to broaden the use of CRISPR/Cas9. By enhancing and expanding CRISPR/Cas9 accessibility, Demeetra is driving us closer to achieving our technology's full potential."

Financial details of the agreement are not being disclosed.

About Demeetra

Centrally located in the Bluegrass State of Kentucky, Demeetra AgBio was launched in 2019. Since inception Demeetra has built extensive gene editing know-how, complementing internally developed as well as a globally sourced portfolio of intellectual property. Their scientific team is composed of experts with diverse backgrounds in gene editing, ranging from microbes and plants, to mammalian cells. Scientific achievements include being the first to successfully edit plants and yeast with their precise Cas-CLOVER technology.

For more information visit: www.demeetra.com

Contact information: Elizabeth Allen, eallen@demeetra.com

About ERS Genomics

ERS Genomics is a biotechnology company based in Dublin, Ireland. The company was formed to provide broad access to the foundational CRISPR/Cas9 intellectual property held by Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier. Non-exclusive licenses are available for research and sale of products and services across multiple fields including research tools, kits, reagents; discovery of novel targets for therapeutic intervention; cell lines for discovery and screening of novel drug candidates; GMP production of healthcare products; companion animal and livestock health; production of industrial materials such as enzymes, biofuels and chemicals; and synthetic biology. ERS holds over 100 patents worldwide.

For additional information, please visit www.ersgenomics.com

Media contact: Dara O'Donnell, ERS Genomics, dara.odonnell@ersgenomics.com, Tel: + 353-1-539 0083

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2206959/Jack_Crawford_CEO_Demeetra.jpg

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2206961/Eric_Rhodes_CEO_ERS_Genomics.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2090619/ERS_Logo.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2206960/Demeetra_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ers-genomics--demeetra-enter-into-crisprcas9-licensing-agreement-301927928.html
Originally published on U.S. Bank company blog

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Wilson's Image, a barbershop in the heart of North Minneapolis, is known for being more than just a place to get a haircut. It's been transformed into a place for community.

"I make relationships with key stakeholders in the community to make sure that I can provide resources for our customers far beyond haircutting services," said Teto Wilson, owner of Wilson's Image, who points to U.S. Bank as one of those stakeholders.

In August 2022, Wilson met Tim Farrow - the business access advisor serving the Twin Cities - at an Access Commitment Live! event in Minneapolis. Farrow and other business access advisors across the country help Black business owners network, connect to resources and gain access to capital.

By working in partnership with Farrow and the business banking team at U.S. Bank, Wilson purchased the building his barbershop is in.

"Teto told me that one of his goals was to own his own barbershop," Farrow said, "and we helped him get there."

Wilson's partnership with U.S. Bank goes beyond banking, with Wilson hosting a listening session for U.S. Bank with high school students to learn more about the North Minneapolis community and contributing to Wilson's scholarship fund.

U.S. Bank launched Access Commitment in 2021 with the goal of increasing wealth-building opportunities for members of the Black community.

For more about Wilson's Barbershop, watch the video linked above.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from U.S. Bank on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: U.S. Bank

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/us-bank

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: U.S. Bank

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784088/from-business-to-community-impact-minneapolis-barbershop-finds-success
Ascenty is a trusted partner in customers' digital transformation journey based on its extensive industry expertise, next-generation infrastructure, and outstanding services.

SAN ANTONIO, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Frost & Sullivan recently researched the data center services industry and, based on its findings, recognizes Ascenty with the 2023 Brazilian Company of the Year Award. Ascenty is a major provider of data center services, featuring world-class services through its highly sophisticated technology and 34 data centers across Brazil, Mexico, Chile, and Colombia.

Ascenty sustains its competitive advantage by offering out-of-the-box services and high-quality infrastructure in strategic locations to reach customers through its fiber optic network, which spans over 5,000 kilometers (3,107 miles). Moreover, Ascenty stands out among data center providers for its cost-effective, cross-connect connectivity and cloud connection services, with multiple low-latency speed options that meet customers' evolving needs and improve operational efficiency.

"Ascenty maintains its competitive edge by providing reliable services to its customers. Its extensive industry experience gives the company a deep understanding of the market, enabling it to offer clients valuable benefits (e.g., operation expansion to key locations, reduced costs, and improved connectivity). With this focus, Frost & Sullivan expects Ascenty to sustain its leadership in the Brazil data center services market," said Kriti Yadav, Industry Analyst at Frost & Sullivan.

The company has an outstanding portfolio of over 200 certifications, including the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 45001 and ISO 14001. Additionally, Ascenty is a 100% carbon-neutral company, reflecting its social and environmental responsibility to its investors and customers. Ascenty, therefore, continues to expand its customer base through its impressive reputation.

Ascenty prioritizes customer satisfaction and provides customizable and scalable solutions to build loyalty and keep customers' businesses on the right track. Ascenty's executive team, therefore, frequently engages with customers to assess their unique needs, develop tailored solutions with roadmaps for seamless execution, and monitor emerging market trends to enhance the company's products. As a result, with its strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and superior service performance, the company is set apart from its competitors and continues to exhibit strong growth in Latin America.

"The company established itself as a trusted partner in clients' digital transformation journey, owing to its industry expertise, next-generation infrastructure, and outstanding services. Frost & Sullivan believes Ascenty is poised to solidify its position as a top provider in the market," noted Valentina Barcia, Best Practices Research Analyst at Frost & Sullivan.

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents a Company of the Year Award to the organization that demonstrates excellence, in terms of growth strategy and implementation in its field. The award recognizes a high degree of innovation with products and technologies and the resulting leadership, in terms of customer value and market penetration.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Awards recognize companies in various regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analyses, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

About Frost & Sullivan

For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, Mega Trends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success. Contact us: Start the discussion .

Contact:

Ashley Weinkauf

P: 210-844-2505

E: ashley.weinkauf@frost.com

About Ascenty

Ascenty, a Digital Realty and Brookfield company, is the largest connectivity and data center service provider in Latin America, currently managing 34 data centers in operation and/or construction in Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Colombia, interconnected by 5,000 km of proprietary fiber-optic network. The company was established in 2010 and builds and operates world-class data centers serving the world's largest cloud and technology providers, as well as other customers in the finance, retail, industrial, healthcare and service industries. To support its expansion, Ascenty relies on its shareholders - Brookfield Infrastructure Partners, a Canadian asset management company, and Digital Realty, the world's largest data center company, with more than 310 sites located in North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Australia. To learn more about Ascenty, go to the website.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2207245/Ascenty_Award.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ascenty-awarded-the-2023-brazilian-company-of-the-year-award-for-leading-the-data-center-infrastructure-across-latin-america-with-its-best-in-class-infrastructure-301924840.html
LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Parkinson's Disease, a neurodegenerative disorder affecting millions worldwide, has witnessed significant advancements in diagnosis, treatment gaps identification, and understanding over the years. As a pharma consulting services provider, DLI embarks on a journey to explore this complex condition comprehensively with epidemiology study, touching upon various aspects, from diagnosis to shifting market trends.

Parkinson's Disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects the central nervous system, particularly the brain. It is a progressive condition, which means that its symptoms worsen over time. The disease is characterized by the gradual degeneration of certain nerve cells in the brain, specifically those responsible for producing dopamine, a crucial neurotransmitter involved in regulating movement and mood.

Advancements in Parkinson's Disease Diagnosis: Facilitating Patient Care

Parkinson's Disease can be challenging to diagnose, often leading to delayed treatment initiation. However, recent advancements in diagnostic tools have empowered healthcare professionals to identify the disease more accurately and at earlier stages.

These advancements include:

Biomarker Research

Biomarkers are measurable substances or characteristics that can indicate the presence or progression of a disease. In the context of Muhammad Ali Parkinson Disease, researchers are actively engaged in biomarker research to discover substances or characteristics that can serve as indicators for the disease. One such area of focus is the analysis of protein levels in cerebrospinal fluid.

Protein Levels in Cerebrospinal Fluid: Cerebrospinal fluid is a clear, colorless fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It contains various proteins, and researchers are interested in specific protein markers that may change in individuals with Lewy body Parkinson. These changes can occur due to the degeneration of dopamine-producing cells in the brain, a hallmark of Parkinson's.

By studying these protein markers, scientists aim to develop reliable tests that can detect these changes early on, even before noticeable symptoms appear. Early diagnosis is crucial for initiating timely treatment and intervention, which can significantly improve the quality of life for pseudo Parkinson patients. Moreover, monitoring these biomarkers over time can help track the progression of the disease and the effectiveness of treatments.

Price and Market Access

Imaging Techniques

Advanced imaging techniques have revolutionized our ability to study the brain and have become valuable tools in diagnosing and understanding Parkinson's Disease.

Functional MRI (fMRI): Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or fMRI, is a specialized MRI technique that measures changes in blood flow and oxygenation in the brain as a proxy for neural activity. In the context of Parkinson's, fMRI can help researchers visualize the brain regions responsible for motor control and dopamine production. Changes in these areas can be indicative of Parkinson tremor.

DaTscan: DaTscan is a nuclear medicine imaging technique that specifically targets dopamine transporters in the brain. It provides detailed images of dopamine activity, which is crucial for Parkinson's diagnosis. A reduced uptake of the radioactive tracer in the brain can indicate a loss of dopamine-producing cells, a key feature of Parkinson's.

Both fMRI and DaTscan offer non-invasive ways to visualize the brain's functioning and can aid in early diagnosis, differentiating Lewy body Parkinson disease from other movement disorders, and monitoring disease progression.

AI-Powered Diagnostics

Artificial intelligence (AI) has made significant strides in healthcare, including Parkinson's Disease diagnosis and management.

Analysis of Patient Data: AI algorithms are being developed to analyze vast amounts of patient data, including clinical records, brain imaging, and even voice recordings. These algorithms can detect subtle changes that may be indicative of Parkinson's disease exercises. For example, changes in speech patterns, tremor characteristics, or gait abnormalities can all be analyzed by AI.

Early Detection: AI-powered diagnostics can detect Parkinson's at its early stages, sometimes even before noticeable symptoms appear. This early detection can be instrumental in providing interventions and treatments that can slow down the progression of the disease.

Accuracy: AI systems can provide highly accurate diagnoses, reducing the risk of misdiagnosis and ensuring that individuals receive appropriate care and support.

Genetic Testing: Understanding genetic predispositions is another crucial aspect of Parkinson's awareness month and research, as genetics can play a role in an individual's risk of developing the disease.

Learn More About the FDA NDA & BLA Approval (NME) Drugs for Parkinson's Disease @

https://www.diseaselandscape.com/requestsample/postid/69

Identifying High-Risk Individuals: Genetic testing can identify specific genetic mutations or variations that are associated with an increased risk of Parkinson's Disease Landscape. While not everyone with these genetic factors will develop the condition, it can provide valuable information for those at higher risk.

Proactive Interventions: For individuals identified as high-risk through genetic testing, proactive interventions and lifestyle modifications can be recommended. These might include regular monitoring, early symptom recognition, and potentially participating in clinical trial assessment for preventive treatments.

Say Goodbye to Pain: Weighing Parkinson's Disease Treatments

Living a pain-free life knowing Parkinson's Disease can be cured is a realistic goal with the right treatment approach. It's essential to evaluate available treatments comprehensively to tailor them to each patient's needs.

Key treatment options include:

Medication: Levodopa remains a cornerstone of Parkinson's treatment, effectively alleviating motor symptoms. Various medications can be used in combination to manage different aspects of the disease.

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): Surgical interventions like DBS have transformed the lives of many Parkinsons icd10 patients, offering relief from tremors and motor fluctuations.

Physical Therapy: Physical therapy and exercise regimes can improve mobility and overall quality of life.

Lifestyle Modifications: Nutrition and lifestyle changes play a significant role in symptom management.

Focused Ultrasound: A Novel Treatment in Development for Parkinson's Disease with Tremor

A promising development in Parkinson's disease and caregiving treatment is focused ultrasound, a non-invasive procedure that targets specific areas of the brain responsible for tremors.

Discover More About Pricing and Reimbursement, Epidemiology Study, and Healthcare @

Request_Parkinson's Disease

Key aspects of this innovative treatment include:

Non-Invasiveness: Focused ultrasound eliminates the need for surgery, reducing associated risks.

Tremor Reduction: Clinical trial management have shown significant tremor reduction in patients, offering hope for enhanced quality of life.

Ongoing Research: Research into focused ultrasound for Parkinson's disease and nutrition continues, with potential applications in other neurological conditions.

DiseaseLandscape Insights' Services: Transforming Data into Opportunities

DiseaseLandscape Insights is at the forefront of drug insights and discovery, product launches, and clinical trial feasibility analysis in the fight against Parkinson's Disease. Their services help transform data into opportunities, ultimately aiming to establish a Parkinson's Disease-free population.

Their contributions include:

Product Launch Expansion: Facilitating the introduction of new treatments to the market.

Research & Development: Pioneering research into innovative therapies and treatment modalities.

Clinical Trials: Ensuring rigorous testing of potential Parkinson's treatments, bringing new options to patients.

Unlock the Benefits Today! Get Started Now and Elevate Your Experience @

Checkout_Parkinson's Disease

Regulatory Framework for Parkinson's Disease

Navigating the regulatory landscape is crucial for bringing effective treatments to Parkinson's patients. Regulations ensure safety and efficacy while fostering innovation.

Key regulatory consulting aspects include:

FDA Approvals: Understanding the FDA approval process for new Parkinson's treatments.

Global Regulations: Comprehending international regulatory standards for drug launch strategies.

Patient Advocacy: The role of patient advocacy groups in shaping regulatory policies.

Last Words

The Parkinson's Disease Overview by healthcare consulting services provider DLI shows that it is competitive, with pharmaceutical companies vying to develop better treatments. Analyzing this landscape can reveal exciting opportunities. Leading global firms in the field of Parkinson's disease insights are strategically positioning themselves to meet the increasing demand for early detection and treatment options as well as new product launch services. These firms are taking several proactive measures to enhance their competitive edge in the market access.

Search more about Mental Health Disorders

Related Reports:

Unlocking Relief: Effective Psoriasis Disease Management Strategies

Revolutionizing Parkinson's Disease Care: Global Insights and Innovations

Unlocking the Latest Breakthroughs in Alzheimer's Disease Research: Hope on the Horizon

Rising Against the Odds: Global Insights into Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) Disease

Navigating Solid Tumor Diseases: Insights and Consulting Services

Demodex Blepharitis: Unveiling Insights and Consulting Services

Unveiling Hope: Navigating Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)

Global Landscape of Lung Cancer Services: Insights and Trends

Monkeypox Unveiled: Symptoms, Transmission, and Preventive Measures

Pneumonia Demystified: Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention Strategies

Understanding Lupus: Navigating the Complex Autoimmune Disorder

Comprehensive Guide to Ringworm: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatment

Comprehensive Guide to Diverticulitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions

About Disease Landscape:?

Disease Landscape, a pioneering company specializing in Disease Intelligence, Pricing, and Market Access. Utilizing the power of data analytics, Disease Landscape Insights is dedicated to healthcare sector with invaluable, finely crafted insights and recommendations regarding global pricing and market access strategies. As a specialized firm, we are committed to delivering unparalleled insights into pricing and market access, custom-tailored to the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. Our data-driven solutions and cutting-edge technology position us as your trustworthy partner, offering swift, adaptable, and evidence-based alternatives to traditional market access and pricing research methods.?

Our core competencies encompass Market Research Services, Consulting Services, Global Pricing and Market Access, Epidemiology Studies, as well as Product Portfolio and Pipeline Services. Our expertise lies in furnishing comprehensive data intelligence throughout every phase of drug and device research.?

Contact Us:?

Disease Landscape Insights LLP

6th Floor, Sr No.207, Office A H 6070 Phase 1?

Solitaire Business Hub, Viman Nagar?

Pune, Maharashtra, 411014?

Email: ajay@diseaselandscape.com???

Email: vishal@diseaselandscape.com?

Corporate Sales:?+44-2038074155?

Asia Office:?+917447409162

Blog: https://www.diseaselandscape.com/blogs?

Case Study: https://www.diseaselandscape.com/casestudies??

Pharma consulting Services

Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/exploring-parkinsons-disease-statistics-market-insight-epidemiology-forecast-price-and-market-access-commercial-strategy-analysis-drug-development--healthcare-consulting-services-by-disease-landscape-insights-301927965.html
LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Plintron has been awarded Most Innovative Marketing by a Digital Brand - LATAM -2023 at the Global Brand Awards announced by the Global Brands Magazine.

London based Global Brands Magazine, one of the largest brand publications, conducts a series of awards for companies that have stood out among the industry leaders, demonstrating exceptional service and a unique vision. This is the 11th Edition of the Awards.

The Technology Awards were established to honour excellence in performance across industries. An external research team was constituted to evaluate the nominees. Plintron was selected from a very competitive group of entrants, all of whom demonstrated unique service delivery towards evolving technology sectors. Plintron was awarded this honour for its exceptional Branding Activities, Digital and Offline Marketing campaigns in the LATAM region.

Subhashree Radhakrishnan, Vice Chairman and Co-Founder of Plintron said, "Being awarded The Most Innovative Marketing by a Digital Brand, is an affirmation of our recognition and visibility in LATAM as a leading Digital Communications and SaaS brand."

Plintron provides MVNA and MVNE solutions in Mexico, Colombia, Chile and many other countries spread across all major continents.

About Plintron

Plintron is a digital communications technology company enabling brands to acquire and engage customers. It is the World's largest Multi-Country end-to-end MVNA / MVNE with a client base in 6 continents. With mobile network services in over 31 countries spanning 6 continents supported by 1000+ telecom professionals, Plintron has launched 143+ MVNOs / OMVs, and over 165 million mobile subscribers. Plintron has won many global industry awards including the MVNA/E of the Year for 2 successive years at the MVNO World Congress,

www.plintron.com

Media Contact:

Shamik Biswas

marketing@plintron.com

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1839055/Plintron_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/plintron-awarded-most-innovative-marketing-by-a-digital-brand--latam--2023-301927996.html
HAIKOU, China, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A report from Hainan International Media Center (HIMC):

China's southernmost province Hainan issued offshore bonds (also known as Dim Sum Bonds) worth 5 billion yuan (US$686 million) in the Hong Kong SAR on September 13, which are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

Certified by the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency, the new Hainan bonds include 3 billion yuan in two-year bonds for sustainable development with a coupon rate of 2.45%, 1 billion yuan in three-year 'green' bonds focusing on biodiversity with a coupon rate of 2.53%, and 1 billion yuan in five-year 'blue' bonds labeled for ocean-related projects with a coupon rate of 2.70%.

The bond sale has attracted strong response from investors, with confirmed orders from a total of 35 accounts from different countries and regions, including policy and commercial banks, asset management firms, and funds. Orders totaled 12.9 billion yuan (US$1.77 billion) at their peak, oversubscribing the bond by 2.58 times.

Settlement of allocated bonds will be handled via the Hainan Free Trade (FT) accounts, a convertible accounting system with RMB as its base currency. These accounts are aimed at accommodating the expected increase in cross-border transactions and foreign investment in the Hainan Free Trade Port.

This is the second time for the Hainan government to issue offshore bonds in Hong Kong following last year's successful issuance of 'blue' bonds and sustainable development bonds. This year, Hainan will be the first local government in the Chinese Mainland to test the waters by issuing the nation's first-ever biodiversity-themed 'green' bonds, offering international investors more asset allocation options for RMB bonds.

Proceeds from the sale of the bonds will primarily go toward improving healthcare and education, as well as strengthening marine conservation, environmental monitoring & restoration, and biodiversity protection.

The Hainan government is issuing these offshore bonds in order to deepen reform and opening-up, accelerate the implementation of sustainable development strategies, and advance the development of the national ecological civilization pilot zone.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210971/Located_Haikou_Dayingshan_Central_Business_District_Window_Global_Trade__WGT.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hainan-launches-rmb-5-billion-offshore-bonds-in-hong-kong-301927997.html
DEERFIELD BEACH, FL / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Founded in 2008, CF Search Marketing, an esteemed digital marketing agency, proudly commemorates a remarkable milestone as it reaches 15 years of delivering top-tier digital solutions to businesses across various industries. To further solidify its commitment to excellence, CF Search Marketing is thrilled to announce its certified partnership with Maserati Digital.

The partnership with Maserati Digital as a Maserati Certified Provider signifies a pivotal moment for CF Search Marketing, reinforcing its position as a premier digital agency that garners the trust of esteemed brands, including the iconic Maserati. This endorsement not only highlights CF Search Marketing's track record of success but also underscores its dedication to delivering exceptional results.

As part of this strategic partnership, Maserati dealerships can now access exclusive programs offered by CF Search Marketing at specially discounted rates. One of the most exciting aspects of this partnership is the enhanced visibility that Maserati dealerships will gain. CF Search Marketing's partnership grants dealerships brand site leads and a prominent presence on the esteemed platform, MaseratiUSA.com, along with access to additional funds and a streamlined co-op reimbursement process. This strategic advantage will undoubtedly drive greater exposure, engagement, enhanced brand recognition, and increased sales opportunities for Maserati dealers.

"We're very excited about our partnership with Maserati. Collaborating with Maserati and supporting their dealerships across the United States and Canada is a significant milestone for us," says Cristina Carrera, Managing Partner of CF Search Marketing.

About CF Search Marketing:

CF Search Marketing, founded in 2008, is a distinguished digital marketing agency known for its innovative approach to delivering exceptional results. With a strong emphasis on conversion, proprietary technologies, and a team of experts, CF Search Marketing has consistently provided clients with high-quality traffic, leads, and measurable success.

For Media Inquiries:

Connie Gundrum

Chief Marketing Officer

866-599-3490

connie@cfsearchmarketing.com

https://www.cfsearchmarketing.com

SOURCE: CF Search Marketing

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783852/cf-search-marketing-announces-partnership-with-maserati-digital-as-they-celebrate-15-years-of-excellence
LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Parla Retail, a visionary leader in the retail technology sector, is thrilled to announce that it has received the prestigious Elevate Award for Customer Experience Excellence for their 1-to-1 Live Commerce software from the Interactive Customer Experience Association (ICX). The award was presented to Jim Schreitmueller, Head of Sales at Parla Retail, during a ceremony held at the annual ICX Summit, in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The ICX Elevate Awards recognize outstanding contributions in the field of customer experience and retail technology. The groundbreaking success of Parla Retail's 1-to-1 Live Commerce software was vividly demonstrated through its partnership with Nebraska Furniture Mart (NFM), a furniture and appliance superstore retail chain owned by Berkshire Hathaway. A NFM case study (https://events.parlaretail.com/nfm_part1_casestudy) documents the initial partnership and describes how Parla Retail was instrumental in elevating NFM's conversion rates up to 58%.

NFM has since initiated the second phase of its implementation and expanded the use of Parla Retail's software across all stores and extended the level of integration into its retail systems.

NFM's Rodney Rahl, explained, "1-to-1 Live selling helps us give customers, who can't easily access our stores, a way to understand and look at the details of something they'd like to purchase by connecting with our sales agents. It's really helping us drive sales and be more competitive."

Jim Schreitmueller, Head of Sales at Parla Retail, expressed his appreciation for the recognition, stating, "We're especially honored to receive the Elevate Award from the ICX Association. At Parla Retail, we're committed to helping online retailers and D2C brands create a virtual in-store experience, connecting salespeople with customers through live video to gives them the confidence to make purchase decisions. Our collaboration with NFM exemplifies the potential of how retailers across product categories are applying technology to transform the way they engage, sell and build relationships with customers."

Parla Retail's 1-to-1 Live Commerce software not only enables retailers to deliver personalized and interactive shopping experiences but also unlocks new avenues for revenue growth and customer loyalty.

About Parla Retail Ltd: Parla Retail's 1-to-1 Live Commerce software redefines how retailers engage with customers online by connecting them with salespeople who provide answers, share recommendations, and perform demonstrations during live video calls to give customers confidence to make a purchase. With a passion for understanding what drives customer engagement and business growth, Parla Retail's game-changing software is designed for the retail enterprise, featuring automation that fully integrates with existing retail technology stacks via the cloud to create in-store shopping experiences online for retailers and D2C brands of all sizes. For more information, visit Parla Retail (https://www.parlaretail.com).

About the Interactive Customer Experience Association (ICX): The Interactive Customer Experience Association (ICX) is a leading organization dedicated to advancing the customer experience through innovative technologies and strategies. For more information visit ICX Summit (https://icxsummit.com/).

CONTACT: Jamila Jamani, JJ@ParlaRetail.com +447807304919

Video - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211049/ICX_competition_with_P_watermark.mp4

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211010/Parla_ICX_award.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/parla-retails-1-to-1-live-commerce-platform-honored-with-icx-elevate-award-for-customer-experience-excellence-301928018.html
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Mary Kay



"The Super Reefs team brings together reef governments and communities with experts in ocean science, conservation, and management from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Stanford University, and The Nature Conservancy, along with private sector support from Mary Kay at this critical moment in the history of coral reefs," says Dr. Elizabeth McLeod with The Nature Conservancy. (Credit: The Nature Conservancy)

Mary Kay Inc., a global advocate for corporate sustainability and signatory to the UN Global Compact Sustainable Ocean Principles, continues to play an important role in ocean conservation. Earlier this year, the beauty brand launched a groundbreaking, user-friendly platform offering valuable guidance, decision-support tools, and practical knowledge for marine practitioners. Following the announcement, Mary Kay participated at the 10th World Ocean Summit and Expo 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal, organized by Economist Impact.

The World Ocean Summit is an annual global event that brings together the widest cross-section of the ocean community, from business and finance to governments, national and international policymakers, civil society, and academia. Over 1,500 attendees from more than 100 countries attended the three-day summit, where 188 speakers addressed some of the most pressing challenges facing the ocean, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

Mary Kay Portugal's General Manager, Sandra Silva, was one of the distinguished panelists at the summit's "Putting Coral Reef Restoration at the Heart of Ocean Conservation Action" discussion, where she joined other notable speakers including Yabanex Batista from the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (United Nations), Tom Moore from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (Saudi Arabia), and Deborah Brosnan from Deborah Brosnan & Associates.

The World Ocean Initiative transforms the momentum and focal point of the World Ocean Summit into a year-round program on the ocean that powers the full capabilities of Economist Impact, combining the ingenuity of a think-tank with the creativity of a media brand to engage a globally influential audience. The World Ocean Initiative seeks to enlighten, motivate, and cultivate better collaboration between businesses, policymakers, investors, scientists, and NGOs to seek solutions to the most pressing ocean challenges and opportunities.

Mary Kay has been working to elevate ocean health and coral reef awareness through its partnership with The Nature Conservancy for over 32 years. One of the key projects Mary Kay supports is called "Super Reefs," which identifies, protects, and grows a global network of highly resilient coral reefs that can survive in a warming ocean.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Mary Kay on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Mary Kay

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/mary-kay

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Mary Kay

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784103/mary-kay-highlights-the-importance-of-womens-leadership-and-private-sector-engagement-in-conservation
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - York Harbour Metals Inc. (TSXV: YORK) (OTC PINK: YORKF) (FSE: 5DE0) (the "Company" or "York"), is pleased announce that the Company has completed its spinout transaction whereby York spun-out 100% of the common shares of Phoenix Gold Resources (Holdings) Ltd. ("Spinco") to the shareholders of York (the "Shareholders") by way of a court-approved plan of arrangement (the "Plan of Arrangement") pursuant to the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) completed effective 12:01 a.m. PT on September 14, 2023 (the "Effective Time").

The Plan of Arrangement received approval from the Supreme Court of British Columbia on August 1, 2023 and shareholder approval on July 26, 2023 as described in the Company's news release of July 26, 2023 and June 15, 2023. Spinco holds interests in the Plumas and Eldorado properties (collectively, known as the "Phoenix Gold Project").

Pursuant to the terms of the Plan of Arrangement, at the Effective Time, the Shareholders received 0.2 of a common share of Spinco ("Spinco Shares") and one new common share of York (the "New Shares") in exchange for every existing common share of York held (the "Old Shares"). Following which the Old Shares were cancelled. Following the Effective Time, Shareholders received 13,705,803 Spinco Shares, being 100% of Spinco, and continue to hold the same number of common shares of York as before the Effective Time. Holders of options and warrants of York did not receive Spinco Shares.

Upon surrender to Computershare Investor Services Inc. (the "Depositary") of certificates representing Old Shares that were outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time of the Arrangement, together with a duly completed and executed Letter of Transmittal, registered holders of such Old Shares are entitled to receive the New Shares and Spinco Shares pursuant to, and subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan of Arrangement. Each registered Share (other than CDS and DTC) will receive a Direct Registration Advice ("DRS Advice"), evidencing the Spinco Shares and New Shares held by each Shareholder. Non-registered holders of Old Shares that were outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time of the Plan of Arrangement should contact their nominee (i.e. broker, trust company bank or other registered holder) which holds the certificates representing such securities, on their behalf to arrange for surrender and exchange pursuant to the Plan of Arrangement.

At the Effective Time, Shareholders will own shares in two reporting companies: Spinco, which will focus on the development of the Phoenix Gold Project, and York, which will continue to focus on the development of the York Harbour Copper-Zinc-Silver Project and the Bottom Brook Rare Earth Elements Project, both located in western Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Spinco Shares have the CUSIP and ISIN of 718972102 and CA7189721029, respectively. The New Shares will be trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the new CUSIP and ISIN, 98664A108 and CA98664A1084, respectively.

Early Warning Disclosure

Spinco became a reporting issuer as a result of the Plan of the Arrangement; therefore, York is providing the following disclosure pursuant to National Instrument 62 - 103 - The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues, with respect to York's previous ownership of more than 10% of the issued and outstanding Spinco Shares. Immediately prior to the Effective Time, York owned a total of 15,750,100 Spinco Shares, being all of the issued and outstanding Spinco Shares. Following the consolidation of the Spinco Shares at a ratio such that the number of Spinco Shares is equal to 0.2 of the issued and outstanding common shares of York at the Effective Time and the completion of the Plan of Arrangement, York holds zero Spinco Shares.

The Spinco Shares were disposed by York as a step of the Plan of Arrangement, so that upon completion all of the issued and outstanding Spinco Shares are held by Shareholders. York currently has no plans or intentions that relate to, or would result in, any of the actions requiring disclosure under applicable early warning reporting provisions. In accordance with applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, York may, from time to time, acquire Spinco Shares in the open market or otherwise, and reserves the right to engage in similar transactions with respect to such securities, the whole depending on market conditions, the business and prospects of Spinco and other relevant factors.

An early warning report will be filed with the British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario securities commissions and will be available for viewing on SEDAR+ under the profile of York. For further information or to obtain a copy of the early warning report, please contact York. The head office of York and Spinco is 1518 - 800 West Pender Street, Vancouver, BC, V6C 2V6.

About York Harbour Metals

York Harbour Metals Inc. (TSXV: YORK) (OTC PINK: YORKF) (FSE: 5DE0) is an exploration and development company focused on two high-grade projects in Newfoundland and Labrador. The York Harbour Copper-Zinc-Silver Project is located approximately 27 km from Corner Brook in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Company intends to continue drilling the 11 known mineralized zones and explore new massive sulphide targets.

Recently, the Company announced the acquisition of a high-grade Rare Earth Elements ("REE") project also located in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Bottom Brook Critical Metals Project, covering 15,150 hectares, is located next to the Trans Canada Highway and is just 27 km from the deep-water port at Turf Point. York Harbour intends to actively identify diamond drill targets through property-wide prospecting, focused soil sampling, and geological mapping.

For further details on York Harbour Metals, please reach out via email to info@yorkharbourmetals.com or call +1-778-302-2257. You may also visit the Company's website at www.yorkharbourmetals.com for past news releases, media interviews and opinion-editorial pieces by management.

On Behalf of The Board of Directors,

"Signed"

Bruce Durham

CEO, President, and Director

Telephone: 778-302-2257 | Email: info@yorkharbourmetals.com

Website: www.yorkharbourmetals.com

1518 - 800 Pender Street W, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6C 2V6

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release may contain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All information contained herein that is not historical in nature may constitute forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements herein include but are not limited to statements relating to the prospects for development of the Company's mineral properties, and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to business, market and economic risks, uncertainties and contingencies that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by forward looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180628
The "Global Wireless Connectivity Market Size By Type, By Application, By Technology, By Geographic Scope And Forecast" report has been published by Verified Market Research. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the global Wireless Connectivity Market, including its growth prospects, market trends, and market challenges.

JERSEY CITY, N.J., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Global Wireless Connectivity Market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.6% from 2023 to 2030, according to a new report published by Verified Market Research. The report reveals that the market was valued at USD 73.06 Billion in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 245.1 Billion by the end of the forecast period.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/download-sample?rid=3323

Browse in-depth TOC on "Wireless Connectivity Market"

202 - Pages

126 - Tables

37 - Figures

Wireless Connectivity Market Soars as Smart Infrastructure and IoT Adoption Surge

The global Wireless Connectivity Market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for smart infrastructure and the rapid adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) connected devices. Wireless Connectivity, which eliminates the need for wired connections in telecommunication networks, homes, and businesses, is revolutionizing the way we communicate and interact with electronic devices. The Wireless Connectivity Market outlook remains positive, with key players such as NXP Semiconductors, Intel Corporation, Qualcomm Incorporated, and others leading the charge in this transformative industry.

Wireless Connectivity encompasses various technologies that facilitate wireless communication, including GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, which are integral components of smartphones, tablets, printers, and an array of electronic devices. This technology relies on radio waves and microwaves to transmit data seamlessly between senders and receivers.

Wireless Connectivity Market Drivers and Outlook:

The following key factors are driving the growth of the Wireless Connectivity market:

Smart Infrastructure Development: The increasing demand for the development of smart infrastructure is a significant driver of market growth. Smart cities, smart homes, and smart businesses are all reliant on wireless connectivity to enable efficient communication and automation.

IoT Adoption: The proliferation of IoT connected devices is having a profound impact on the market. Innovations in technology have fueled the adoption of IoT devices, driving the need for robust wireless connectivity solutions.

High Internet Connectivity: The rising adoption of smartphones and high-speed internet connectivity has created a fertile ground for the Wireless Connectivity market to thrive. Consumers are increasingly relying on wireless connections for their daily activities.

Consumer Electronics: The consumer electronics application segment is a major contributor to market growth. The increase in IoT and machine-to-machine communication in consumer devices is propelling the demand for wireless connectivity solutions.

Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Smart Technology: The market for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth smart technology is experiencing rapid growth, driven by the need for seamless wireless communication in various applications.

Wireless Connectivity Market Challenges:

Despite the promising growth prospects, the Wireless Connectivity market faces several challenges:

Lack of Uniform Communication Principles: The absence of standardized communication principles poses challenges in ensuring seamless connectivity across devices and networks.

Interference: Interference with other electromagnetic sources can disrupt wireless communication, impacting the reliability of wireless connectivity solutions.

Covered Structures: The effectiveness of wireless connectivity can be hindered by covered structures, making it challenging to maintain consistent connectivity in certain environments.

High Power Consumption: Power consumption remains a concern, particularly in IoT devices. While low-power technologies are available, effective power management remains critical.

Wireless Connectivity Market Key Players:

Prominent players in the Wireless Connectivity market include:

NXP Semiconductors

Intel Corporation

Qualcomm Incorporated

STMicroelectronics

Texas Instruments

Microchip Technology

MediaTek

Cypress Semiconductor

Broadcom

EnOcean

These key players are at the forefront of innovation, driving advancements in wireless connectivity technology and shaping the future of the industry.

The Wireless Connectivity market continues to evolve, fueled by technological advancements and the increasing demand for wireless communication solutions. As smart infrastructure development and IoT adoption continue to rise, the market is poised for sustained growth in the coming years.

To get market data, market insights, financial statements and a comprehensive analysis of the Global Wireless Connectivity Market, please Contact Verified Market Research.

Based on the research, Verified Market Research has segmented the global Wireless Connectivity Market into Type, Application, Technology, And Geography.

Wireless Connectivity Market, by Type Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) Satellite (GNSS) Cellular M2M Others

Wireless Connectivity Market, by Application Automotive & Transportation Building Automation Consumer Electronics Industrial Wearable Devices Others Enterprises

Wireless Connectivity Market, by Technology Bluetooth Classic Bluetooth Smart Bluetooth Smart Ready Wi-Fi Zigbee Z-Wave Cellular M2M Technologies 2G 3G 4G+ Others

Wireless Connectivity Market, by Geography North America U.S Canada Mexico Europe Germany France U.K Rest of Europe Asia Pacific China Japan India Rest of Asia Pacific ROW Middle East & Africa Latin America



Browse Related Reports:

5G Technology Market By Connectivity (Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communication (URLLC)), By Application (Connected Vehicles, VR And AR), By End User (IT And Telecom, Automotive), By Geography, And Forecast

IoT Connectivity Market By Product (Data Management, Remote Monitoring), By Application (Smart Manufacturing, Connected Health), By Geography, And Forecast

Wireless Sensor Network Market By Connectivity Type (Bluetooth, Cellular Network), By End-User Industry (Wearable Devices, Healthcare), By Sensor Type (Temperature Sensors, Heart Rate Sensors), By Offering (Hardware, Software), By Geography, And Forecast

Wireless Network Infrastructure Ecosystem Market By Product (2G & 3G, LTe Fdd, Td-lTe, Wimax), By Application (Residential, Commercial), By Geography, And Forecast

Leading Wireless Broadband Service Providers promoting digitalization globally

Visualize Wireless Connectivity Market using Verified Market Intelligence -:

Verified Market Intelligence is our BI Enabled Platform for narrative storytelling in this market. VMI offers in-depth forecasted trends and accurate Insights on over 20,000+ emerging & niche markets, helping you make critical revenue-impacting decisions for a brilliant future.

VMI provides a holistic overview and global competitive landscape with respect to Region, Country, Segment, and Key players of your market. Present your Market Report & findings with an inbuilt presentation feature saving over 70% of your time and resources for Investor, Sales & Marketing, R&D, and Product Development pitches. VMI enables data delivery In Excel and Interactive PDF formats with over 15+ Key Market Indicators for your market.

About Us

Verified Market Research is a leading Global Research and Consulting firm servicing over 5000+ customers. Verified Market Research provides advanced analytical research solutions while offering information-enriched research studies. We offer insight into strategic and growth analyses, Data necessary to achieve corporate goals and critical revenue decisions.

Our 250 Analysts and SMEs offer a high level of expertise in data collection and governance use industrial techniques to collect and analyze data on more than 15,000 high impact and niche markets. Our analysts are trained to combine modern data collection techniques, superior research methodology, expertise and years of collective experience to produce informative and accurate research.

We study 14+ categories from Semiconductors & Electronics, Chemicals, Advanced Materials, Aerospace & Defense, Energy & Power, Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Automotive & Transportation, Information & Communication Technology, Software & Services, Information Security, Mining, Minerals & Metals, Building & Construction, Agriculture industry and Medical Devices from over 100 countries.

Contact Us

Mr. Edwyne Fernandes

Verified Market Research

US: +1 (650)-781-4080

US Toll Free: +1 (800)-782-1768

Email: sales@verifiedmarketresearch.com

Web: https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/

Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2015407/VMR_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/wireless-connectivity-market-size-worth-usd-245-1-billion-globally-by-2030-at-13-6-cagr-verified-market-research-301927691.html
LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a comprehensive research report by Brandessence Market Research (BMRC), "Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Technology, By Application, By End-User, By Deployment Type, Based On Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2021- 2028". The Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market was valued at USD 23.03 Billion in 2021 and expected to reach USD 108.45 Billion by 2028, amplifying with a CAGR of 24.78% over 2021-2028.

The application of cognitive computing technologies in the healthcare domain is referred to as healthcare cognitive computing. It is worth noting that cognitive computing is a part of AI that is equipped with the ability to simulate human thought processes and enhance decision-making by using data analysis, pattern recognition, natural language processing, and machine learning algorithms. These computing systems can process a large volume of healthcare data and interpret them with ease. This in turn allows healthcare professionals to make informed decisions.

This business intelligence report offers a deep dive assessment of the primary growth drivers, challenges, opportunities, and restraints. The report predominantly aims at empowering businesses with extensive knowledge about this industry vertical. A 360-degree outlook of the top segments and geographies are entailed in this study. It also sheds light into the competitive terrain of this market within depth information about each operating player.

Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market is poised to amplify with a CAGR of 24.78% over 2021-2028.

Growing prevalence of both chronic and infectious diseases, increased healthcare expenditure, along with rising volume of data generated in the healthcare sector are aiding industry expansion.

MEA is projected to capture a substantial revenue share due to the growing burden of patients and increased healthcare expenditure.

Report Metric Details Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market Revenue forecast in 2028 USD 108.45 Billion Market Size in 2021 USD 23.03 Billion Market Growth Rate CAGR of 24.78% 2021-2028 Base Year 2021 Study Period 2021-2028 Key Players/Companies Google, IBM, Palantir, Microsoft, PTC

Get Free Sample PDF Brochure:

https://brandessenceresearch.com/downloadSample/PostId/643

Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market was valued at USD 23.03 Billion in 2021 and expected to reach USD 108.45 Billion by 2028, amplifying with a CAGR of 24.78% over 2021-2028.

Elaborating the key trends and dynamics of Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market

Growing prevalence of both chronic and infectious diseases, increased healthcare expenditure, along with rising volume of data generated in the healthcare sector are the primary factors aiding the expansion of this business sphere. Besides, surging R&D activities in the field, rising prominence of remote healthcare, and widespread digitalization are creating lucrative opportunities for this market space to prosper. Moreover, growing focus of healthcare organizations to reduce their overall operational costs and minimize the workload of medical professionals is another pivotal growth stimulant for this industry vertical.

Major growth drivers:

Increased volume of healthcare data- With rising burden of various diseases and injuries, a large number of individuals seek medical help every day. Thus, a huge volume of data in the form of patient records, test reports, clinical research documents, and medical images, among others are generated from healthcare facilities. The systematic storage, interpretation, and transfer of these sensitive data is quite important when it comes to making treatment decisions. This has increased the adoption of cognitive computing systems across healthcare facilities.

Escalating demand for personalized medicines- Personalized treatment options are gaining immense traction worldwide. Every individual has different health needs and require specialized form of care. To illustrate this, let us consider two cancer patients aged 18 and 78 respectively. The medicinal or therapeutic needs of an 18-year-old will be quite different than the elderly adult. Personalized treatments are tailored according to the age, physiological conditions, and presence of comorbidities of an individual and there can be regarded quite beneficial in treating a wide range of ailments. This in turn is creating an upward trend in this market.

Challenges:

Data security issues- Healthcare cognitive computing systems access and analyze sensitive patient data, including medical records, genetic information, and imaging data. Maintaining the privacy and security of this data is of utmost importance to comply with regulatory requirements and protect patients' confidentiality. The increased instances of data thefts and other forms of cybercrime is hindering the remuneration of this business sphere.

Competitive landscape of Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market:

Google

IBM

Palantir

Microsoft

PTC

Others

Browse In-depth Market Research Report (300 Pages) on Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market:

https://brandessenceresearch.com/healthcare/healthcare-cognitive-computing-market-size

Competitive landscape of Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market:

The prominent players defining the competitive terrain of this business vertical are Google, IBM, Palantir, Microsoft, and PTC.

Segmental Assessment:

By technology, the natural language processing segment is likely to amass notable gains over 2022-2029. This is attributable to the fact that NLP is equipped with the ability to extract meaning from human language and can be used to structure complex data.

Based on deployment type, the cloud-based services segment is poised to generate significant returns over the stipulated timeline. This is credited to the easy accessibility and affordability of cloud-based systems.

Geographical analysis & landscape:

Middle East & Africa Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market:

MEA is projected to capture a substantial revenue share over the assessment timeline. This is ascribed to the growing burden of patients, increased healthcare expenditure, and widespread technological advancements in the field. Besides, surging R&D activities along with the rapidly evolving healthcare infrastructure are fuelling the growth of this business sphere.

Europe:

Europe is reckoned to amplify significantly over the forecast duration. This is due to the rapidly evolving healthcare infrastructure, presence of prominent companies, and growing prominence of advanced technologies such as AI and ML. Moreover, growing burden of diseases and escalating demand for personalized medicine are creating an upward trend in this regional market.

Major developments in Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market:

In 2021, Change Healthcare, a healthcare technology company, announced the acquisitions of PDX, Inc.

Porter's Five Forces Analysis:

Threat of New Entrants: The healthcare cognitive computing market requires significant expertise in AI, machine learning, and healthcare domain knowledge. Entry barriers are relatively high due to the need for substantial investments in research and development, data infrastructure, and talent acquisition. Established companies already operating in this market have a competitive advantage with their existing technology, patents, and customer base, making it challenging for new entrants to gain a significant foothold.

Bargaining Power of Buyers: The bargaining power of buyers in the healthcare cognitive computing market is moderate to high. Buyers, such as healthcare institutions and pharmaceutical companies, have a variety of options when choosing cognitive computing solutions. They can demand customization and competitive pricing from vendors. Additionally, the quality and reliability of the cognitive computing systems significantly influence buyer decisions.

Purchase Copy of This Research Report @:

https://brandessenceresearch.com/Checkout?report_id=643

Bargaining Power of Suppliers: The bargaining power of suppliers in this market is moderate. Suppliers include technology providers, data providers, and research organizations that contribute to building and improving cognitive computing solutions. While there are several suppliers available, certain specialized technologies or datasets may be controlled by a limited number of vendors, giving them some leverage.

Threat of Substitutes: The threat of substitutes in the healthcare cognitive computing market is relatively low. Traditional healthcare decision-making methods may not match the capabilities and efficiency of cognitive computing systems in analyzing vast amounts of medical data and providing actionable insights. While human expertise will remain essential in healthcare, cognitive computing adds unique value and is not easily replaceable by traditional methods.

Competitive Rivalry: The competitive rivalry in the healthcare cognitive computing market is high. The market is relatively concentrated with a few major players dominating the industry. IBM Watson, Google Health, Microsoft Azure Healthcare, and other tech giants compete for market share. Additionally, startups and smaller companies offer specialized cognitive computing solutions for niche applications, intensifying the competition. As the market grows, innovation and differentiation become crucial factors for companies to gain a competitive edge.

Related Case Study:

Case Study: Launch of a Medical High Tech Innovation

Case Study: Creation of an Antibiotic

Case Study: Antiallergic Drug Discovery Process Using Emerging Technologies

Case Study: New Drug Application (NDA) Preparation and Submission

Case Study: API Price Trends

Partnering with Commercial Laboratories for Monkeypox Detection Solutions to Fuel Business Expansion

Radiation therapy for lung cancer is used.

Lupus Immunomodulating Medications

To Increase Productivity Through Cost-Effective R&D and Launch More Affordable Drugs

Locating a Hemophilia Treatment Provider that Can Be Accepted

Commercialization of a Pneumonia Diagnostic Tool

Case study on the Development of Innovative Medicine

Case Study: Software Application for Personalized Care with Data-Driven Insights

Case Study: Cancer Vaccine with Specific Antigens

Combination Trials for Lung Cancer Immunotherapy - Case Study

Using software to manage the supply chain and the inventory

Asset Scouting for Cystic Fibrosis: A Case Study

A Revolutionary Non-Invasive Glucose Monitoring Device Receives Regulatory Approval and Effective Commercialization

Investment in Pancreatic Cancer Chemotherapy

About Us:

Brandessence Market Research & Consulting Pvt ltd.

Brandessence Market Research publishes market research reports & business insights produced by highly qualified and experienced industry analysts. Our research reports are available in a wide range of industry verticals including aviation, food & beverage, healthcare, ICT, Construction, Chemicals and lot more. Brand Essence Market Research report will be best fit for senior executives, business development managers, marketing managers, consultants, CEOs, CIOs, COOs, and Directors, governments, agencies, organizations and Ph.D. Students. We have a delivery center in?Pune, India?and our sales office is in?London.

Follow Us:?LinkedIn ?

Contact:

Mr.?Vishal Sawant?

Email:?vishal@brandessenceresearch.com

Email:?Sales@brandessenceresearch.com

Corporate Sales:?+44-2038074155?

Asia Office:?+917447409162





Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1392316/BEMR_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/healthcare-cognitive-computing-market-size-is-expected-to-reach-usd-108-45-billion-by-2028--with-24-78-cagr--brandessence-market-research-301928065.html
Bay Area entrepreneurs introduce an adult twist on the classic juice pouch packaging

SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / MIZO Hard Lemonade, the new alcoholic juice pouch that evokes nostalgia while delivering exceptional taste, is making waves in the market. This innovative beverage, which can be enjoyed straight from the pouch, frozen for a refreshing slushy, or transformed into a vibrant cocktail mixer, has captured the hearts and palates of consumers. Following a highly successful launch of the MIZO Hard Lemonade Variety 12-pack in eight Bay Area Costco locations, the brand is excited to announce its re-launch into Costco, along with an expansion to 18 Northern California locations. A TikTok announcement has already gone viral, garnering over 3.8 million views.





MIZO Hard Lemonade Pouches

MIZO Hard Lemonade juice pouches





MIZO Hard Lemonade has redefined the concept of boozy beverages with its unique and nostalgic packaging. Each 10-ounce pouch is only 90 calories and 4g of sugar. The MIZO Hard Lemonade Variety 12-pack offers a delicious selection of four distinct and refreshing flavors: Mango Passionfruit, White Peach, Blackberry Lychee, and Original Lemonade. This unique assortment ensures that there's something for everyone, whether they crave a tropical escape or a classic, nostalgic trip down memory lane.

"We are thrilled by the positive response to MIZO Hard Lemonade during its initial release," said Holly Paul and Chris Tran, the founders of MIZO. "MIZO is not just a beverage; it's a celebration of our Asian-American heritage and our favorite nostalgic memories. We are excited to reintroduce MIZO Hard Lemonade into Costco and expand its availability, allowing more individuals to enjoy our Asian-inspired flavors and the playful experience of our boozy juice pouches."

Following the overwhelming demand experienced during the initial launch, MIZO Hard Lemonade is eager to expand its reach to 18 Northern California Costco locations. Customers can find the MIZO Hard Lemonade Variety 12-pack at their local Costco, priced at $19.99.

MIZO Hard Lemonade is also available in a variety 8-pack at select Walmart, BevMo!, and Total Wine locations.

Visit https://www.drinkmizo.com/ for more information about MIZO Hard Lemonade and its availability.

About MIZO

Inspired by the fruits their immigrant parents shared with them as they were growing up, founders Holly Paul and Chris Tran created MIZO (Mee-zOH) as a celebration of culture, fruit-forward flavors, and the joy of childhood memories. Their newest product line, MIZO Hard Lemonade, takes customers on a journey through time with its boozy twist on juice pouches.



Contact Information

Holly Paul

MIZO

holly@drinkmizo.com

4086803532

Related Files

MIZO HARD LEMONADE JUICE POUCHES.jpg



SOURCE: MIZO

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783876/back-by-popular-demand-mizo-hard-lemonade-returns-to-costco-expands-in-northern-california
Canada's Most Senior Insurance Event Featuring Lloyds, Everest, Sun Life, Manulife, Zurich and many more!

London, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Canada's must attend insurance conference, The Future of Insurance Canada, has just released its official 2023 program. Taking place on November 15-16 at the Sheraton Centre Toronto, FOICanada promises 2-days of learning, networking, and collaboration with Canada's top insurers.

Download the full programme now - complete with all the sessions, attendee snapshot, networking, and an exclusive discount

Get everything set for your transformation journey, from creating unrivalled customer loyalty, to optimizing tech deployment and turn insight into action. Here's a snapshot of the topics and speakers to expect:

Keynote: Reimagining Tomorrow's Insurance Products Today (Marco Andolfatto, Chief Underwriting Officer, Apollo Insurance )

(Marco Andolfatto, ) Fireside chat: The Power of Partnerships will Drive Innovation Forward (Marc Lipman, Chief Executive Officer , Lloyds Canada )

(Marc Lipman, , ) Presentation: Refresh Insurance's Image for a Modern Age (Simona Salter, SVP Chief Client Experience Officer, Sun Life Canada )

(Simona Salter, ) Panel: Leave no Stone Unturned - Innovate with Intent (Danish Yusuf, Founder & Chief Executive Officer , Zensurance ; Megan Douglas, SVP Chief Brand & Commercial Officer, Saskatchewan Blue Cross )

(Danish Yusuf, , ; Megan Douglas, ) Panel: Empower Employees to Pioneer the Future of Insurance (Elizabeth McSavaney, VP Head of Human Resources, Zurich Canada; Irene Bianchi, President & Chief Executive Officer, Peel Mutual Insurance Company; Luke Lichty, Head of Commercial and Speciality Insurance, Everest Insurance Company of Canada )

(Elizabeth McSavaney, Irene Bianchi, Luke Lichty, ) Presentation: Optimize Policy Holder Experience through Communication & Tech (Ken Worsley, Chief Operating Officer, Nova Mutual Insurance )

(Ken Worsley, ) Presentation: Serve Customers Where They Want to be Served (Anita Swamy, SVP Operations, Medavie Blue Cross)

Access the programme now - full of speakers, audience breakdown, and an exclusive discount

Download The Future of Insurance Canada program to see why it's the only insurance event you need to attend this year.

Tom Robinson

Project Director

Insurance

Reuters Events

tom.robinson2@thomsonreuters.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180340
First IPO on Trading Market is a $810 million Market Cap Company

Up to $80 Billion Capital Available for New York Business

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 15, 2023 / State Stox NY Trading Market (SSNY) has initiated trading with the IPO of a New York internet technology company, boasting a $810 million market cap. Trading commenced on Tuesday, September 12 at SSNY, an innovative platform that empowers New Yorkers to invest in companies located within their hometown and home state. M&T Bank is custodian for SSNY.

SSNY embraces the "invest local" trend, building upon the "buy local" movement. Exclusively listing New York-based companies and limiting investment account access to New Yorkers, SSNY is proudly referred to as "New Yorkers investing in New Yorkers," aligning with the growing trend towards supporting locally produced goods and services as a countermeasure to the increasing concentration of production within giant multinational corporations.

Local Investing Unleashes Up To $80 Billion Capital for NY Business

Over 200,000 accounts of New York residents have already been approved for trading accounts, representing $16.5 billion of potential investment capital, based on SSNY's recommendation that every investor devote 8% to 10% of their portfolios to investing in local companies. SSNY believes it may eventually have as many as 1 million accounts and up to $80 billion of New Yorker's capital may be available to invest in New York.

SSNY has struck a chord with New Yorkers. Said Jeff Young, "I love New York, and I love the idea of investing in local New York companies and supporting my community."

State Stox can be a powerful engine for economic development in New York. In fact, State Stox can be a key factor in restoring the estimated $23 billion of equity depleted from New York businesses in the last 30 months due to the Covid pandemic.

SSNY has received applications to quote securities of four more New York companies: two IPOs and two secondaries. SSNY expects those companies to be quoted on SSNY by September 2023. Furthermore, SSNY anticipates that over 30 more New York companies will list in 2024.

First Day of Trading

OWN Inc. (SSNY: OWNZC) is a New York Company that started trading on Thursday, September 14. OWN, the parent company of Ownet.com, a social network, sold convertible securities in an IPO. Salomon Brothers Securities was the Sole Manager. The Units quoted on SSNY resulting in a market cap of $810 million. Each OWN security is convertible to three shares of common stock and one warrant to buy a share of class A stock.

Former Governor of New York, David Paterson, rang the opening bell on the historic first day of trading and spoke about the potential impact of the SSNY platform for New York, saying: "They say 'if you can make it here, you'll make it anywhere.' SSNY helps New Yorkers make it here."

"State Stox has achieved some significant innovations and firsts," according to Chip Daniels, founder and executive chairman. He continued, "it is the first and only platform dedicated to investors in a single state - filling a role that used to be occupied by regional stock exchanges. Additionally, it is the first U.S. trading platform to exclusively trade securities in the form of digital tokens that employ blockchain technology. State Stox plans to expand to other states in 2024."

About State Stox Group

State Stox Group is a fintech company that provides core financial infrastructure crucial to community investing. Its trading platform is a fully-digital and utilizes blockchain technology based on the Ethereum protocol. The company's subsidiary, State Stox (NY), operates a dealer trading market that provides liquidity exclusively to investors in securities issued by New York businesses. State Stox. For more information, go to statestox.com

For More Information Contact:

Name: Dan Vider

Email: media@firstlede.com

SOURCE: State Stox

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784519/correction-state-stox-ny-rings-opening-bell-on-a-new-era-in-stock-trading-enabling-local-investing
New Day Diagnostics is pleased to announce that the Extraordinary General Meeting of Epigenomics AG (Frankfurt General Standard: ECX1), a molecular diagnostics company focused on blood testing for the early detection of cancer, has approved the acquisition agreement between the two organizations. The agreement's completion will further enhance New Day Diagnostics' ability to improve lives by empowering people with innovative, accessible diagnostics.

"New Day Diagnostics is thrilled that the resolutions required for the execution of this Agreement have been successfully passed," said Eric Mayer, President and CEO of New Day Diagnostics. "This development is a testament to the commitment and vision of both organizations to increase survivorship from colorectal cancer with an accurate, affordable, accessible test requiring routine blood collection as a path to increasing compliance."

Jens Ravens, Executive of Epigenomics AG, added: "We are very pleased that the Extraordinary General Shareholders' Meeting followed our reasoning and approved the agreement with an overwhelming majority. As a result, there is now a realistic possibility that Epigenomics' considerable groundwork will bear fruit and patients will benefit from the blood-based colorectal cancer screening test."

The agreement, approved by the Extraordinary General Meeting, leads to the sale of nearly all assets held by Epigenomics AG to New Day Diagnostics. The approval of this Agreement was necessary under Section 179a of the German Stock Corporation Act (AktG). Additionally, the Extraordinary General Meeting gave the green light to amend the statutory purpose of Epigenomics AG, aligning it with the future purpose of Epigenomics AG and the strategic goals of the acquisition.

The closing of the agreement remains subject to customary closing conditions, and both parties are diligently working towards its completion. Once finalized, this strategic move will empower New Day Diagnostics, a full-service diagnostics developer, marketer, and CRO service provider to expedite this solution through clinical trials to manufacturing and market entry.

For more information about New Day Diagnostics, please visit newdaydiagnostics.com.

About New Day Diagnostics, LLC

New Day Diagnostics, LLC, located in Knoxville, TN is a full-service diagnostic healthcare company committed to the development of innovative diagnostic solutions that lead to improved patient outcomes while reducing healthcare costs. The company is a Contract Research Organization (CRO) with the capabilities for support throughout the diagnostic process, from biomarker to discovery to product launch. It includes an ISO 13485:2016 and CLIA certified in vitro diagnostics laboratory specializing in oncology, gastrointestinal disease, infectious disease, and women's health. The company is also in active development and distribution of affordable, state-of-the-art, multiplex, point-of-care, and over-the-counter tests that allow early detection and monitoring of disease through accuracy, ease of use, and affordability.

About Epigenomics AG

Epigenomics AG is a molecular diagnostics company focused on blood testing for the early detection of cancer. Based on its proprietary biomarker technology for the detection of methylated DNA, Epigenomics developed blood tests for various cancer indications with high unmet medical needs.

About TCB Capital Advisors

TCB Capital Advisors specializes in advising on companies' buying, selling, investment, and growth strategies. TCB offers a tailored approach to each of our clients. Outside of transactions alone, work with our clients can include building a corporate development function, working with the business development team to grow revenue or post-transaction integration and consulting services. Our ethos asserts that such services aren't isolated from transactions, but integral to supporting management towards successful expansion or exit. TCB Capital Advisors is an affiliate of Weild Co. Securities transactions effected through Weild Co., member FINRA/SIPC.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914250761/en/

Contacts:

New Day Diagnostics

Jessica Etheridge, Director of Marketing and Branding

marketing@newdaydiagnostics.com
Integration of Sat.tv functionality in mass-market set-top box chipset

Enhancing the Free-To-Air satellite TV viewing experience for millions of homes

Increasing content visibility for broadcasters

Regulatory News:

Eutelsat Communications (Euronext Paris: ETL) and silicon chip maker NationalChip are bringing an enhanced Free-To-Air satellite TV viewing experience to millions of homes around the world, thanks to the integration of the Sat.tv services in a chipset that is widely used in set-top boxes around the world.

Over 1000 Free-to-Air TV channels broadcast by Eutelsat are viewed by 120 million homes in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. And while the content offer has grown massively, it can be challenging both for broadcasters to target new audiences, and for viewers to find new content. To meet this demand, Eutelsat developed Sat.tv, an electronic program guide for Free-to-Air TV channels. The Sat.tv service delivers a uni-directional flow of information about free TV channels via satellite, to set-top boxes containing a Sat.tv-compatible chipset, giving users a more visual display of available content, including logos, channel line-ups and programme information.

To make this enhanced TV viewing experience available on some of the most cost-effective set-top boxes in the market, NationalChip has integrated the Sat.tv functional specifications defined by Eutelsat, into the GX6605S chip. With over 100 million units shipped worldwide, this is the most popular chipset used in set-top boxes in the Middle East and North Africa region.

Vincent Huang, CEO of NationalChip, commented, "As a market leader in the set-top box chipset industry, we believe that partnership and innovation are key to enhance the value proposition for our customers. Thanks to the innovative Sat.tv services launched by Eutelsat, GX6605S is the first mass market DVB-S2 HD STB chipset to support Sat.tv services and will provide a refreshed user experience for free-to-air satellite TV viewing."

"Our goal with Sat.tv is to better connect our free-to-air broadcasters with their audiences" added Laurence Delpy, Eutelsat General Manager of the Video Business Unit. "When we make it easier for people to find their favorite channels and watch their favorite shows then they are likely to watch more Free-to-Air satellite television. An enhanced service is excellent news for users, broadcasters and the market as a whole.

Eutelsat will be demonstrating the wide range of new mass market Sat.tv enabled satellite receivers at the IBC Show in Amsterdam, 15-18 September, on stand 1.D59.

About Sat.tv

Sat.tv is a free TV channel and programme guide. Powered by Eutelsat, it gives viewers access to the wide range of television channels broadcast free-to-air via its flagship orbital positions. Channels are organised numerically according to the country or language selected and easily identifiable by their logos and genres. Users can browse the detailed programme guide for the next 7 days and intuitively search for content by genre with the ability to easily schedule recordings or set alerts.

These features, a world-first for free-to-air satellite TV reception, are now available on a growing range of new compatible receivers, without the need for an Internet connection. These can be identified by the Sat.tv logo on the receiver's packaging and/or front panel.

About Eutelsat Communications

Founded in 1977, Eutelsat Communications is one of the world's leading satellite operators. With a global fleet of 36 satellites and associated ground infrastructure, Eutelsat enables clients across Video, Data, Government, Fixed and Mobile Broadband markets to communicate effectively to their customers, irrespective of their location. Around 7,000 television channels operated by leading media groups are broadcast by Eutelsat to one billion viewers equipped for DTH reception or connected to terrestrial networks. Committed to promoting all facets of sustainable development across its business activities, Eutelsat leverages its in-orbit resources to help bridge the digital divide while maintaining a safe and uncluttered space environment. As an attractive and socially responsible employer, Eutelsat assembles 1,200 men and women from 50 countries who are dedicated to delivering the highest quality of service.

For more about Eutelsat please visit www.eutelsat.com

About NationalChip

NationalChip is a leading fabless semiconductor company that specialises in IC design and solution development for digital TV and IoT oriented applications. With over 20 years of experience in IC design for digital communications, audio-video, and artificial intelligence fields, NationalChip empowers digital TV STB, industrial control, intelligent voice-activated applications with SoC, algorithm and software total solutions.

Learn more at www.nationalchip.com or contact marketing@nationalchip.com.Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914977050/en/

Contacts:

Medias

Anita Baltagi

Tel.: +33 1 53 98 47 47

abaltagi@eutelsat.com

Daphne Joseph-Gabriel

Tel.: +33 1 53 98 47 47

djosephgabriel@eutelsat.com

Baptiste Romeuf

Tel.: +33 6 63 80 87 54

eutelsat@agenceproches.com

Investors

Thomas Cardiel

Tel.: +33 6 99 07 86 47

tcardiel@eutelsat.com

Hugo Laurens-Berge

hlaurensberge@eutelsat.com

Christine Lopez

Tel.: +33 1 53 98 47 02

clopez@eutelsat.com
Clinical results from ACTISAVE phase 2/3 study now expected in the second quarter of 2024

Optimised development plan to register glenzocimab in Europe and the United States projected no later than 2028

Regulatory News:

Acticor Biotech, (ISIN: FR0014005OJ5 ALACT) (Paris:ALACT), a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company developing glenzocimab, an innovative drug for the treatment of cardiovascular emergencies, announced today its optimised development plan for Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS) to register glenzocimab in Europe and the United States.

ACTISAVE (NCT05070260) is an international phase 2/3 study, adaptive, multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group evaluating the safety and efficacy of a single dose of glenzocimab used in combination with the reference treatment (thrombolysis with or without mechanical thrombectomy) for acute ischaemic stroke.

After consultation with the European (EMA) and US (FDA) regulatory agencies, in agreement with ACTISAVE's scientific committee, Acticor Biotech has decided to change the dual primary endpoint of this study to a single endpoint, namely the reduction in the number of patients who died or suffered from severe disability as a result of the stroke (mRS score 4-6 at 90 days). This modification of the primary endpoint, reducing the size of the study to 400 patients compared to 1,000 initially planned, will enable clinical results to be obtained as early as in the second quarter of 2024.

Amending ACTISAVE study protocol should enable:

1) a quicker confirmation of the efficacy and safety results obtained in February 2022 in the ACTIMIS study (and recently confirmed by the Brainomix study);

2) a simplification of the evaluation, replacing the interim futility analyses planned by a final analysis;

3) an opportunity to evaluate additional endpoints and several subpopulations, optimally supporting the best possible design and making it possible to identify those patients who should draw the best benefit from glenzocimab.

To date, the ACTISAVE study deployed in the United States, Europe, Israel, and the United Kingdom, has recruited more than 380 patients, 35% of whom have undergone a mechanical thrombectomy. Comparison of the patient populations included in ACTISAVE and ACTIMIS studies suggests that ACTISAVE patients will be more representative, in terms of severity at inclusion, of the general population of patients treated in hospital for a stroke.

Regarding the pharmaceutical development plan, Acticor received the opinion from EMA and FDA during the summer. The authorities confirmed the relevance of the registration strategy in terms of production process validation and glenzocimab characterization. Recommendations have been proposed and will be implemented in the roadmap, without impacting the registration plan.

Based on the results of the ACTISAVE phase 2/3 study and on recommendations from world leading stroke experts, Acticor plans to consult the EMA and FDA again during 2024 to confirm that the phase 3 design will support registration in both Europe and the United States, projected no later than 2028.

Gilles Avenard, Chief Executive Officer of Acticor Biotech, commented:"We are very pleased with this strategic decision, which will enable us to obtain clinical results as early as mid-2024. We will then have two independent studies showing the efficacy of our drug and we will be able to define, in consultation with the FDA and the EMA, the design of phase 3 for the registration of this promising drug in the treatment of the acute phase of stroke. This evolution of our clinical strategy also has the advantage of reducing our current costs and consequently our financing requirements for 2024"

Watch exclusive interview with Gilles Avenard

https://youtu.be/HpMnBI_6Gio

About ACTICOR BIOTECH

Acticor Biotech is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company, a spin-off from INSERM (the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research), which is aiming to develop an innovative treatment for cardiovascular emergencies, including ischemic stroke.

The positive results from its Phase 1b/2a study, ACTIMIS, confirmed the safety profile and showed a reduction in mortality and intracerebral hemorrhage in the glenzocimab-treated group in patients with stroke. The efficacy of glenzocimab is now being evaluated in an international Phase 2/3 study, ACTISAVE. In July 2022, Acticor Biotech was granted "PRIME" status by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for glenzocimab in the treatment of stroke. This designation will allow the company to strengthen its interactions and obtain early dialogues with regulatory authorities.

Acticor Biotech is supported by a panel of European and international investors (Mediolanum farmaceutici, Karista, Go Capital, Newton Biocapital, CMS Medical Venture Investment (HK) Limited, A&B (HK) Limited, Anaxago, and the Armesa foundation). Acticor Biotech is listed on Euronext Growth Paris since November 2021 (ISIN: FR0014005OJ5 ALACT).

For more information, visit: www.acticor-biotech.com

Disclaimer

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements concerning Acticor Biotech and its business. Such forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that Acticor Biotech considers to be reasonable. However, there can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will be verified, which statements are subject to numerous risks, including the risks set forth in the Document de reference registration document as approved by the Autorite des marches financiers under number R. 22-011 on 26 April 2022 and to the development of economic conditions, financial markets and the markets in which Acticor Biotech operates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to risks not yet known to Acticor Biotech or not currently considered material by Acticor Biotech. The occurrence of all or part of such risks could cause actual results, financial conditions, performance or achievements of Acticor Biotech to be materially different from such forward-looking statements.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914727576/en/

Contacts:

ACTICOR BIOTECH

Gilles AVENARD, MD

CEO and Founder

gilles.avenard@acticor-biotech.com

T.: +33 (0)6 76 23 38 13

Sophie BINAY, PhD

General Manager and CSO

Sophie.binay@acticor-biotech.com

T.: +33 (0)6 76 23 38 13

NewCap

Mathilde BOHIN

Investor Relations

acticor@newcap.eu

T.: +33 (0)1 44 71 94 95

NewCap

Arthur ROUILLE

Media Relations

acticor@newcap.eu

T.: +33 (0)1 44 71 00 15
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / New York-based Cogency Global Inc., a global provider of corporate compliance and transactional legal support services, announced today that it has acquired Colorado-based Tax Guard, LLC., a leading tax risk due diligence and monitoring services provider, from Falfurrias Capital Partners. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Raymond James served as Tax Guard's financial advisor.





Cogency Global

This strategic combination aims to expand Cogency Global's comprehensive suite of compliance services and solidify its presence in the financial services sector.

"We are thrilled to welcome Tax Guard into the Cogency Global family," said Bruce Jacobi, CEO of Cogency Global. "Tax Guard's expertise in tax risk assessment aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing reliable, seamless, and comprehensive compliance solutions. This acquisition allows us to offer even more specialized services to our diverse client base."

Tax Guard is a recognized leader in the field of tax risk assessment for financial organizations of all types. Their specialized expertise provides comprehensive evaluations of tax compliance statuses and potential risks associated with various financial activities. This valuable knowledge aligns seamlessly with Cogency Global's core suite of services, which focuses on corporate compliance and governance. This acquisition enables Cogency Global to offer a more holistic approach to risk management, from business formation to ongoing corporate and tax compliance and governance.

"I am genuinely excited to join forces with Cogency Global and harness our combined capabilities," said Hansen Rada, CEO of Tax Guard. "I see a real opportunity to integrate our services over time and deliver an enhanced compliance solution to our collective customer base."

Cogency Global, backed by Bertram Capital, provides a full range of registered agent, transactional, and corporate compliance services for law firms, lenders, and multi-jurisdictional corporations in the US and internationally.

Benefits to Clients

Current and future clients of both companies will benefit from this transaction in several ways:

One-Stop Solution : The acquisition creates a one-stop solution for organizations seeking to manage governance, compliance, and tax-related risks efficiently.

: The acquisition creates a one-stop solution for organizations seeking to manage governance, compliance, and tax-related risks efficiently. Expertise : The combined entity will possess comprehensive expertise, supported by decades of experience from both Cogency Global and Tax Guard.

: The combined entity will possess comprehensive expertise, supported by decades of experience from both Cogency Global and Tax Guard. Streamlined Services: Clients can expect more streamlined and efficient services, thanks to the shared resources and technologies of the two companies.

About Cogency Global

Cogency Global, founded in 1980, is an international provider of registered agent services, as well as fast and efficient corporate transaction and compliance solutions for companies and their counsel. The company also keeps clients informed of changes to the law and filing procedures through frequent bulletins, email updates, and live informational webinars and seminars. Headquartered in New York City, with offices throughout the United States as well as in London, Hong Kong, and Singapore, Cogency Global is well-positioned to support legal and business professionals around the world. For more information, please visit www.cogencyglobal.com

About Tax Guard

Tax Guard is the first company in the U.S. to give lenders proactive insight into their clients' hidden tax risks long before liens are filed. Lenders throughout the country rely on our proprietary tax risk assessment tools both prior to financing and throughout the course of their lending relationships for ongoing peace of mind. Tax Guard was founded in 2009, is headquartered in beautiful Westminster, Colorado, and was named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies for five years. For more information, visit https://tax-guard.com/

About Bertram Capital

Bertram Capital is a private equity firm targeting investments in lower middle market companies. Since its inception in 2006, the firm has raised over $3B of capital commitments. In addition to supplying strategic growth capital, Bertram Capital leverages proprietary processes and services, Bertram High 5sm and Bertram Labs, to empower its portfolio companies to unlock their full business potential. The Bertram High 5sm is an operationally focused value creation strategy, which includes management augmentation, operational initiative implementation, complementary business acquisition, sales, and marketing improvements, and leveraging technology and IP. The cornerstone of this strategy is Bertram Labs, its in-house technology team, which drives growth and value through digital marketing, e-commerce, big data and analytics, application development, and internal and external platform optimization. Visit www.bcap.com for more information.

Contact Information

Tigist Ketema

SVP, Global Marketing, Cogency Global

tketema@cogencyglobal.com

David Bohrman

Vice President of Marketing, Tax Guard

dbohrman@tax-guard.com

David Hellier

pr@bcap.com

SOURCE: Cogency Global

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/783630/cogency-global-acquires-tax-guard-to-expand-footprint-in-compliance-and-financial-services
MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Forbes Advisor has collaborated with OTTO Quotes' insurance marketplace technology to elevate the home and auto insurance experience for digital users. This partnership aims to provide Forbes Advisor's extensive audience with a more enhanced and smooth journey while they navigate through various options for auto and home insurance.

Declan Basile, Senior Manager of Native Advertising at Forbes Advisor, shares his perspective: "We are extremely excited to partner with OTTO for our insurance offerings. We trust OTTO to provide an unparalleled user-friendly experience. This strategic partnership has been long in the making, and the future looks promising."

Chief Operating Officer of OTTO Quotes, Brett Moses, states: "This partnership is a testament to the capabilities of OTTO's technology and our commitment to transforming the insurance selection process. Our collaboration with Forbes Advisor allows us to significantly extend our reach and cater to the diverse needs of a broader audience."

Providing insight into the driving force behind the collaboration, Kate Hagan, Vice President of Operations at OTTO Quotes, explains: "We have seen firsthand the challenges many encounter while navigating the complex realm of insurance. Through our partnership with Forbes Advisor, we are giving our loyal users the opportunity to merge technology with trust, and that's a game-changer."

As Forbes Advisor and OTTO Quotes come together, readers can anticipate a paradigm shift in how they engage with and make insurance decisions. This collaboration will provide clarity, ease, and innovation to the insurance selection process. William B, a loyal part of OTTO's 11-million-large community, stated, "Every time I had to deal with an insurance company it was a bid fight. I called OTTO and saved myself almost $2000." In a bold departure from being part of the 70% of Americans overpaying for insurance due to mere convenience, William shattered the norm by seeking out more economical alternatives by using OTTO's technology.

As OTTO joins forces with Forbes Advisor, ushering in a new era of awareness and dependable solutions, countless individuals will join this community, unified in their shared sentiment: that they wish they had become part of it sooner.

OTTO Quotes Headquarters: Miami Beach, FL - 1-855-798-2367

About Forbes Advisor

Forbes Advisor is a global media company that publishes business, investing, technology, entrepreneurship, leadership, and lifestyle content. The company's website reaches over 150 million unique visitors per month.

Contact Information

Media Inquiries

info@ottoquotes.com

OTTO Quotes

1-855-798-2367

Partnership Inquiries

sales@ottoquotes.com

SOURCE: OTTO Quotes, LLC

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784120/forbes-advisor-and-otto-quotes-partner-to-make-insurance-shopping-easier
An Immigrant Experience Through Poetry

MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Released a month before Hispanic Heritage Month, Renzo Del Castillo's "Still" is a collection of poems that reflects an all-too relatable tale for all immigrants.

Still Cover Image

Still Cover Image

After migrating to Florida from Peru as a child, Del Castillo built a life in a new country with a foundation forged in his native land, caught in the space between cultures. This led him to write "Still" [Indie Earth Publishing, $24.99], an exploration of the immigrant experience through reflections of memory and transition, an adaptation to new cultures and geographies through the ethnographic lens of Miami. His story, told in verse, is that of many immigrants.

"Still" is a collection of poems that focuses on the immigrant experience: a family's journey from Lima, Peru to Miami, Florida as political refugees and asylum seekers and the impact that had on the life of a boy as he grew into a man.

"We left Peru when I was five because my family had received death threats from a terrorist organization. We went from being comfortable to starting from zero. I knew I would have to adapt to make a life worth living," says Del Castillo.

As we enter National Hispanic Heritage Month, Still provides a read that is as timely as it is pertinent. With poems in three languages, the book looks to bridge the divide between cultures, highlighting Hispanics' shared experience in his poetry. When the reader finds something to relate to in these pages, a dialogue starts and shows people aren't that different underneath it all.

That heritage of terror and exile that sometimes underlies these poems gives them a sense of history within the lyric confusions of a single life. There is an intimate tone, used to remind the reader that imagination triumphs over, or sometimes through, adversity. "Still" was released July 30, 2023, and is available wherever books are sold (ISBN: 979-8988037996).

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Renzo Del Castillo holds a B.A. in English from University of Florida, specializing in Victorian Literature, and an M.A. in Mass Communications, specializing in Intercultural Communications. Del Castillo has been published in Literary Yard, the Acentos Review, the Scarlet Leaf Review, and the Ekphrastic Review. He lives in Miami, where his family also resides.

###

For interviews and a copy of Still, contact Flor Mireles at indieearthpublishinghouse@gmail.com.

Contact Information

Flor Mireles

Editor-in-Chief

indieearthpublishinghouse@gmail.com

(305) 510-8445

Related Files

Still Boletin de Prensa.docx

SOURCE: Indie Earth Publishing

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784123/renzo-del-castillos-still-released-in-time-for-hispanic-heritage-month-by-indie-earth-publishing
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Alpha Male Plastic Surgery, a leading provider of male aesthetic and plastic surgery, today celebrated its 10th anniversary. The practice, founded by Dr. Douglas S. Steinbrech, has grown from a single office in New York City to three offices in New York City, New York, Chicago, Illinois and Beverly Hills, California.

"I am proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Alpha Male Plastic Surgery," said Dr. Steinbrech. "It has been an incredible journey, and I am grateful to all of my patients who have trusted me with their care. I am also grateful to my team of dedicated professionals who helped me build this practice."

Dr. Steinbrech is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive aesthetics. He is known for his innovative techniques and his commitment to providing his patients with the best possible results.

"I believe that men deserve to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin," said Dr. Steinbrech. "That is why I offer a wide range of procedures that can help men improve their appearance, from liposuction and body contouring to facial rejuvenation and hair restoration."

Alpha Male Plastic Surgery offers a variety of male aesthetic and plastic surgery procedures, including:

BodyBanking

Male Liposuction

Body Contouring

Facial Rejuvenation

Male Breast Reduction

Hi Def Liposculpting

Jawline Recontouring

Male Model Makeover

Male Neck Lift

The practice also offers a variety of non-surgical procedures, such as:

Botox

Dermal Fillers

Kybella

Voluma

Alpha Male Plastic Surgery is committed to providing its patients with the highest quality care. The practice uses the latest technology and techniques, and its staff is highly experienced and knowledgeable.

"I am confident that Alpha Male Plastic Surgery will continue to be a leader in male aesthetic and plastic surgery for many years to come," said Dr. Steinbrech. "I am excited to see what the next 10 years bring."

Dr. Steinbrech has been recognized as one of the top plastic surgeons for men in his field by multiple media sources, such as The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, New York Times, NBC & ABC, Men's Health, GQ, and more. He was named the "Go-To Surgeon for Men" by Forbes Magazine. Dr. Steinbrech is a leading expert in male aesthetics and plastic surgery.

The Rise of the Male Plastic Surgery Market

In 2020, there were over 1.3 million cosmetic procedures performed on men in the United States. This represents a 29% increase since 2000.

The most popular cosmetic procedures for men are: Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) Liposuction Hair transplantation Male breast reduction (gynecomastia)

The growth of male plastic surgery is being driven by a number of factors, including: Increased awareness of the benefits of plastic surgery Changing social norms that make it more acceptable for men to get plastic surgery Improved technology and techniques that make plastic surgery safer and more effective

The average age of men who get plastic surgery is 41 years old.

Men are more likely to get plastic surgery than women in the following areas: Neck lifts Chin augmentations Ear surgery Forehead lifts

Men are less likely to get plastic surgery than women in the following areas: Pectoral augmentation Buttock augmentation Tummy tucks



The growth of male plastic surgery is a trend that is expected to continue in the years to come. As more men become aware of the benefits of plastic surgery and as the technology and techniques continue to improve, we can expect to see even more men seeking out these procedures.

It Wasn't the Easiest Road To Success

??Yes, that's right. In 2017, Jezebel published an article titled "The Rise of the Manly Man Plastic Surgery" that criticized the growing trend of men getting plastic surgery. The article argued that male plastic surgery is a sign of insecurity and that it reinforces harmful stereotypes about masculinity.

Dr. Steinbrech was one of the surgeons who cited the article. He responded to the criticism by saying that he believes that men should be able to make their own choices about their bodies and that plastic surgery can be a way to improve self-confidence and quality of life.

Despite the criticism, Dr. Steinbrech's practice continued to grow. In fact, he opened a new office in Beverly Hills, California in 2017. This suggests that the article did not have a significant impact on the demand for male plastic surgery.

There are a few possible explanations for why Dr. Steinbrech's practice continued to soar despite the criticism. First, the article may have actually helped to raise awareness of male plastic surgery. This could have led more men to consider getting plastic surgery, even if they didn't agree with the article's message.

Second, the article may have backfired by making male plastic surgery seem more controversial and therefore more appealing to some men. This is a phenomenon known as the Streisand Effect.

Finally, it's also possible that the criticism simply didn't resonate with Dr. Steinbrech's target audience. His practice caters to men who are confident and successful, and they may not have been bothered by the article's message.

Whatever the reason, Dr. Steinbrech's experience shows that the demand for male plastic surgery is not going away anytime soon. As more men become aware of the benefits of plastic surgery, we can expect to see even more men seeking out these procedures.

Dr. Douglas S. Steinbrech's Alpha Male Plastic Surgery is celebrating its 10th anniversary. The practice, founded by Dr. Steinbrech, has grown from a single office in New York, New York City to additional offices in Chicago. Illinois, and Beverly Hills, California. Dr. Steinbrech is a leading expert in male aesthetics and plastic surgery and has been recognized by Forbes as the "Go-To Surgeon for Men." Despite criticism from some naysayers, Dr. Steinbrech's practice has continued to grow, suggesting that the demand for male plastic surgery is not going away anytime soon. Learn more about Alpha Male Plastic Surgery at https://MalePlasticSurgery.com 655 Park Ave., New York, NY Tel: (646) 949-0130

SOURCE: Alpha Male Plastic Surgery



View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784129/alpha-male-plastic-surgery-celebrates-10th-anniversary
The company is committed to constructing a state-of-the-art brewery in Yucatan.

The new brewery will set the standard for sustainable brewing, with focus on improved water processes and integrating circular economy practices.

HEINEKEN Mexico expects to create over 2,000 new direct and indirect job opportunities.



Amsterdam, 14 September 2023 - HEINEKEN Mexico plans to invest EUR 430 million in the establishment of a groundbreaking new brewery in Yucatan, with the ambition to expand sustainable brewing practices and foster community growth. This announcement was made in the presence of Raquel Buenrostro, Secretary of Economy of Mexico and Mauricio Vila Dosal, Constitutional Governor of Yucatan, alongside Guillaume Duverdier, Managing Director of HEINEKEN Mexico.

Construction will take place in the Kanasin municipality, marking the company's inaugural brewery in the southeast region. To be equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the new brewery is an important addition to HEINEKEN Mexico's operations, aiming to address the growing demand in the southeast while capitalising on the region's robust road, rail, and port connectivity.

In line with HEINEKEN's global sustainability strategy 'Brew a Better World', the brewery will pioneer water processes unparalleled in the Mexican industry, integrating circular economy practices that ensure water reuse through cutting-edge treatment systems. In addition, we aim for the new brewery to operate with minimal waste and utilise renewable energy sources through advanced processes, equipment, and technology.

Currently employing over 18,000 people, HEINEKEN Mexico operates across seven breweries and one malting plant in Mexico. The Kanasin brewery in Yucatan is poised to create more than 2,000 direct and indirect jobs, further enhancing its role in the local economy. Operations are scheduled to commence in 2026, delivering beloved brands such as Tecate, Dos Equis, Indio, Bohemia, Amstel Ultra, and Sol, among others.

Guillaume Duverdier, Managing Director of HEINEKEN Mexico, commented: "We highly appreciate the collaborative efforts of federal and state governments in fostering regional development. We take pride in being a part of Mexico's history and in connecting with our customers and consumers in Yucatan and the southeast, all while safeguarding the environment and the welfare of our people. We are dedicated to and have strong confidence in Mexico, and we remain committed to continue brewing moments of joy and true togetherness through our portfolio of brands."

Raquel Buenrostro, Secretary of Economy of Mexico, said: "HEINEKEN's announcement today on investing in a new brewery is a sign of the confidence and favorable economic climate that the country offers for prospective investments. The Mexican southeast region is experiencing a moment of unparalleled growth, enriched by competitive advantages, such as the development of infrastructure, connectivity, and the commitment to fostering well-being through sustainable progress as well as shared prosperity."

Mauricio Vila Dosal, Governor of Yucatan, commented: "Yucatan is an attractive investment hub, with stellar infrastructure, economic development, and security, all key drivers of competitiveness."

Dolf van den Brink, CEO & Chairman of the Executive Board at Heineken N.V., said: "Mexico plays a pivotal role as one of the company's foremost global markets. This investment has strategic significance. It is designed to propel growth and seize the abundant opportunities that the Mexican market presents. We look forward to the continued relationship between HEINEKEN and the people of Mexico, spanning more than 132 years."

HEINEKEN Mexico reiterated its firm trust in and long-term commitment to both Mexico and Yucatan. Guillaume Duverdier concluded: "This important investment aligns with our sustainability strategy 'Brew a Better World'. We stand ready to contribute to the development of Yucatan by delivering a world-class brewery."

-END-

Press enquiries

Joris Evers / Michael Fuchs

E-mail: pressoffice@heineken.com

Tel: +31-20-5239-355

Investor and analyst enquiries

Federico Castillo Martinez / Mark Matthews

E-mail: investors@heineken.com

Tel: +31-20-5239-590

About HEINEKEN

HEINEKEN is the world's most international brewer. It is the leading developer and marketer of premium and non-alcoholic beer and cider brands. Led by the Heineken brand, the Group has a portfolio of more than 300 international, regional, local and specialty beers and ciders. With HEINEKEN's over 90,000 employees, we brew the joy of true togetherness to inspire a better world. Our dream is to shape the future of beer and beyond to win the hearts of consumers. We are committed to innovation, long-term brand investment, disciplined sales execution and focused cost management. Through "Brew a Better World", sustainability is embedded in the business. HEINEKEN has a well-balanced geographic footprint with leadership positions in both developed and developing markets. We operate breweries, malteries, cider plants and other production facilities in more than 70 countries. Most recent information is available on our Company's websiteand follow us on LinkedIn, Twitterand Instagram.

Attachments
Freedom Libraries, conceived by Reginald Dwayne Betts, former prisoner-turned-acclaimed-poet, open at maximum security facility in Warren, Maine

NEW HAVEN, CT / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Today, the national non-profit Freedom Reads opened 17 Freedom Libraries in Maine State Prison (MSP), a maximum-security facility located in Warren, ME. The Freedom Libraries will be placed in each of the facilities' cellblocks for unfettered access to the curated collection. One of MSP's 17 Freedom Libraries will be dedicated to staff use. These openings mark an ongoing partnership with the Maine Department of Corrections, which was one of the first Departments of Corrections to welcome partnering with Freedom Reads.

The brainchild of 2021 MacArthur Fellow and Yale Law School graduate Reginald Dwayne Betts, who was sentenced to nine years in prison at age 16, the Freedom Libraries seek to create a space to encourage community and where reaching for a book can be as spontaneous as human curiosity. Each bookshelf is handcrafted out of maple, walnut or cherry and is curved to contrast straight lines and bars of prisons as well as to evoke Martin Luther King Jr.'s line about the "arc of the universe" bending "toward justice."

Betts' nonprofit is a first-of-its-kind organization that empowers people through literature to imagine new possibilities for their lives. Books in the Freedom Library have been carefully curated through consultations with hundreds of poets, novelists, philosophers, teachers, friends, and voracious readers, resulting in a collection of books that are not only beloved but indispensable. The libraries include contemporary poets, novelists, and essayists alongside classic works from Homer's The Odyssey to the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, titles that remind us that the book has long been a freedom project.

"For many, access to literature opens up the opportunity for imagining a better tomorrow. We are grateful to the Maine Department of Corrections for allowing us to offer that opportunity to those incarcerated in their facilities," said Reginald Dwayne Betts, Founder and CEO of Freedom Reads. "With the opening of these Freedom Libraries at Maine State Prison, we are fostering the type of creativity and hope that we believe can transform the lives of those incarcerated. It is our hope that the legacy of these libraries is seen every day in the lives of those impacted by them."

"The Maine Department of Corrections is happy to have these beautiful libraries at Maine's largest correctional facility," said Anthony Cantillo, Deputy Commissioner for the Maine Department of Corrections. "With 17 libraries being placed in the facility, it is sure to bring great conversations and warmth. We at the Maine DOC are grateful for the opportunity to receive these libraries once again and look forward to other meaningful opportunities from Freedom Reads!"

About Freedom Reads:

Founded by Reginald Dwayne Betts, who knows firsthand the dispiriting forces of prison, Freedom Reads works to empower people through literature to confront what prison does to the spirit. Supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and inspired by the recognition that freedom begins with a book, Freedom Reads supports the efforts of people in prison to transform their lives through increased access to books and writers. For more information about Freedom Reads and the Freedom Libraries project, please visit https://freedomreads.org/.

#

Contact Information

Megan Stencel

Account Executive

megan@javelindc.com

7034908845

SOURCE: Freedom Reads

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784151/freedom-libraries-to-open-in-maine-state-prison
Huntington Learning Center Offers Key Insights as an Advocate for the Continuation of Federally Funded Learning Programs Nationwide

ORADELL, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Huntington Learning Center, the nation's leading tutoring and test prep provider, seeks to deepen its commitment to giving every student the best education possible as the organization expands its Private-Public Partnerships nationwide. Amid discussions of discontinuing American Rescue Plan learning recovery programs, Huntington's partnerships with school districts throughout the US validate the ongoing need to provide supplemental learning.





Huntington Learning Center





In the summer of 2020, before the American Rescue Plan was passed and $190B of federal funding was committed to combating COVID-19 learning loss, Huntington was already providing supplemental learning programs for students impacted by school closures. Huntington's flagship summer programs aimed at combating COVID-19 learning issues resulted in an average grade level increase of 1.3 in reading and 2.1 in math for 30 students in just 48 hours of one-to-one instruction. The results established Huntington's programming as the leading provider of supplemental learning for K-12 students. This led to the success Huntington is seeing today with their public-private partnerships with school districts across the country.

The 2022 NAEP Nation's Report Card revealed "national average score declines in mathematics for fourth- and eighth-graders were the largest ever recorded in that subject."

Today, Huntington students are improving their Reading and Math scores by 33% and 35% with only 50 hours of instruction. At this level, Huntington's student results are shown to overcome COVID-19 learning loss as indicated in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP).

The Huntington case study results below support the ongoing success of their federally-backed, supplemental learning programs in school districts across the country.

A publicly-funded partnership with the Skokie, IL, school district in 2021 offered one-to-one, in-person, and small group instruction to a group of 30 students, grades 4-8, for 48 hours of tutoring in reading and math. Average reading improvement: 1.3-grade level increase. Average math improvement: 2.1-grade level increase.

A publicly-funded partnership with the Bronx, NY, Charter School for Excellence in 2022 conducted 42-63 hours of in-person, small group instruction in reading and math for 15 students in grades K-8, Average reading improvement: 0.6-grade level increase. Average math improvement: 1.1 grade level increase.

In Indiana, Huntington has received a "Grade A" in service delivery and a "Grade A-" in customer satisfaction from families and educators. The Ohio Department of Education scored Huntington at a 12, the highest attainable score for providers working with students as part of the American Rescue Plan.

The results from these outreach programs confirm the effort and energy Huntington is putting behind their dedicated Public Private Partnerships division as part of their 46th year of operation is the right move for students, families, and franchisees alike. Students continue to benefit from Huntington's public-private partnerships in the following states, and the list is growing. Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Tennessee, Washington, Colorado, New Mexico, Kansas, Mississippi, North Carolina and Delaware.

"Huntington has always served areas of the education sector that are most in need, as evidenced by our leading efforts over 20 years ago during 'No Child Left Behind,' which continues today as we provide academic services under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)," said Anne Huntington Sharma, President and Board Member of Huntington Learning Center.

"Pandemic school closures were unprecedented," she continued, "and Huntington made sure to lean on this experience and immediately pivot our programming. We've been through recessions, testing, and grading changes. Throughout our 46 years, we have helped over a million students and families overcome those obstacles.

"Now is not the time to pull back on supplemental programming for students. The recent national report card proved that. An equally important skills gap families are witnessing is the social and emotional impact of disrupted classroom time. Huntington conducted a nationwide parent survey that revealed those soft skills are of significant concern for parents immediately following the onset of the pandemic. We know one-to-one and small group instruction serves to benefit growth in these areas as well, building their confidence and motivation to succeed.

"Our dedicated Private Public Partnerships division has opened even more opportunities to provide K-12 instructional services to public, charter, and non-public schools inclusive of private, religious, and military schools. We teach students with deeply remedial needs and special education needs, as well as general education. When students need us, Huntington is here to help," Sharma concluded.

Huntington, which appointed Sharma as President in 2019 on the heels of her success spearheading the largest footprint expansion in company history, continues to focus on leading their legacy organization forward with innovative changes to their operations and a major digital transformation benefitting both families and franchise owners. The achievements have not gone unnoticed with Huntington earning awards from Entrepreneur, Franchise Business Review, FranServe, and the International Franchise Association in the past 12 months alone.

For more information on how Huntington is addressing unfinished learning nationwide and how your school can engage in their high dosage, publicly funded K-12 services, visit the Publicly Funded Partnerships site and contact publiclyfundedprograms@hlcmail.com

About Huntington Learning Center

Huntington Learning Center is the nation's leading tutoring and test prep provider. We offer customized programs in person, online, and hybrid options. Our certified teachers provide individualized instruction in phonics, reading, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, Algebra through Calculus, Chemistry, and other sciences. It preps for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams. Huntington's programs develop the skills, confidence, and motivation to help students succeed and meet the needs of Common Core State Standards. Huntington is accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Founded in 1977, Huntington's mission is to give every student the best education possible. Learn how Huntington can help at www.HuntingtonHelps.com; for franchising opportunities, visit www.HuntingtonFranchise.com.

Contact Information:

Huntington Learning Center

hlc@mbpconsultants.com

SOURCE: Huntington Learning Center

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784152/need-for-publicly-funded-learning-programs-remains-as-american-rescue-plan-dollars-diminish
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Metallic Minerals Corp. (TSX.V:MMG)(OTCQB:MMNGF) ("Metallic Minerals" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on drilling at the La Plata copper-silver-gold-PGE project. The first phase of the 2023 campaign is testing extensions of high-grade mineralization seen in 2022 drill hole LAP22-04, which intercepted 816 meters of continuous mineralization grading 0.41% copper equivalent ("Cu Eq") with internal higher-grade zones. The hole ended in high-grade precious metal-rich mineralization grading 11.54% Cu Eq over 0.61 meters (5.42% Cu, 47.0 g/t Ag, 0.622 g/t Au, 5.016 g/t Pt and 5.393 g/t Pt).

Highlights

Over 2,000 meters of a planned 5,000-meter Phase 1 drill program designed to expand the existing resource have been completed.

Hole LAP23-05 was completed to a depth of 909 meters, while hole LAP23-06 is ongoing at a depth of approximately 1,150 meters. Both these 2023 drill holes have intersected altered porphyry mineralization with visible copper sulfide including chalcopyrite and bornite similar to that seen in LAP22-04 (see Figure 1-2).

Initial assay results are expected in the coming weeks and continuing into early 2024.

Results of the 2023 drilling have potential to expand the size of the current resource and increase the overall grade of the deposit with the inclusion of precious metals assays for gold, platinum and palladium in addition to copper and silver in the current resource.

Metallic Minerals has filed a National Instrument 43-101 technical report for the expanded resource estimate announced in July 2023.

The 2023 field campaign is being funded by a strategic equity investment announced in May whereby Newcrest Mining Limited acquired a 9.5% ownership position in Metallic Minerals with the goal of accelerating advancement of the La Plata project.

Scott Petsel, Metallic Minerals' President, stated, "The team is excited about the progress and initial indications from our current drill program at La Plata. Last year's exceptional hole LAP22-04 was a major discovery of higher-grade copper and precious metal-rich, porphyry-style, mineralization starting from surface. These first two drill holes are offset holes drilled above and below LAP22-04 to test extensions of mineralization away from that discovery hole to potentially expand the resource and test the scale of size of this higher-grade zone of mineralization. The results of this program are expected to form the basis of an updated resource estimate. This program will also assist in vectoring to the strongest parts of the mineralized system as we work to maximize the opportunity to advance this potential Tier 1 asset."

The Allard deposit remains open to significant expansion within the resource area to the east, north and west and to depth, with the potential to add gold, platinum and palladium to the current copper and silver resource with the completion of additional exploration drilling. In addition, the larger porphyry system at the La Plata project, which covers an area of over 10 km2, remains underexplored with the potential for new discoveries of both additional copper porphyry centers, as well as high-grade epithermal silver and gold systems.

Upcoming Events

Precious Metals Summit Presentation

Metallic Minerals CEO, Greg Johnson, will be presenting live from the 2023 Precious Metals Summit in Beaver Creek, Colorado, on September 14th at 4:30 pm Mountain time. Click here to view the presentation.

Adelaide Capital Presentation

Metallic, as well as fellow Metallic Group members Stillwater Critical Minerals and Granite Creek Copper, will be presenting at the Wildfire Relief series hosted by Adelaide Capital on September 22nd at 3:30 ET. Click here to register.

121 Investment Conference

Metallic Minerals will be participating in 1-1 meetings at 121 Global Online September 26th & 27th. Find registration information here.

Figure 1. Cross Section Through Allard Resource Area Showing New 2023 Drill Holes

Figure 2. Photograph from Hole LAP23-06, 480.0m to 489.0m - High Quartz-Sulfide Vein Density in Altered Syenite.

Corporate Update

Metallic Minerals announces that Susan Henderson has been appointed to the role of Corporate Secretary, effective immediately. Ms. Henderson has worked in expanding roles with the Company since 2016, most recently in the role of Business Manager. Ms. Henderson replaces Alicia Milne who has stepped down. Ms. Milne will continue as a consultant to the Company.

Greg Johnson, CEO of Metallic Minerals, stated, "We very much appreciate Alicia's exceptional work and dedication as Corporate Secretary over the past years and we wish her continued success in her new venture. Susan has been an integral part of the Metallic Group since its inception and invaluable in enabling our growth and expansion. We are very pleased to further expand her role to that of Corporate Secretary."

NI 43-101 Technical Report

Further to the news release dated July 31, 2023, Metallic Minerals has filed a National Instrument 43-101 technical report, entitled, "Technical Report on the Mineral Resource Estimate for the Allard Cu-Ag Porphyry Deposit, La Plata Project, Southwestern Colorado" with an effective date of July 12th, 2023. The report is available on the Company's profile at www.sedar.com and on our website at www.metallic-minerals.com

About Metallic Minerals

Metallic Minerals Corp. is a leading exploration and development stage company focused on copper, silver, gold, and other critical minerals in the La Plata mining district in Colorado, and silver and gold in the high-grade Keno Hill and Klondike districts of the Yukon. Our objective is to create shareholder value through a systematic, entrepreneurial approach to making exploration discoveries, growing resources, and advancing projects toward development.

At the Company's La Plata project in southwestern Colorado, the new 2023 NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate identifies a significant porphyry copper-silver resource containing 1.21 Blbs copper and 17.6 Moz of silver1. The 2022 expansion drilling provided the basis for the updated resource, including the longest and highest-grade interval ever encountered at La Plata and one of the top intersections for any North American copper project in the past several years. In May 2023, the Company announced a 9.5% strategic investment by Newcrest Mining Limited to accelerate the advancement of the Company's La Plata project. In the 2023 Fraser Institute's Annual Survey of Mining Companies, Colorado ranked 5th globally for investment attractiveness and 2nd in the USA.

In Canada's Yukon Territory, Metallic Minerals has consolidated the second-largest land position in the historic high-grade Keno Hill silver district, directly adjacent to Hecla Mining Company's ("Hecla") operations, with more than 300 Moz of high-grade silver in past production and current M&I resources. Hecla, the largest primary silver producer in the USA and third largest in the world, is anticipating full production at its Keno Hill operations by the end of 2023. An inaugural mineral resource estimate on the project is expected in Q4 2023, with an expansion drill program slated to commence in September.

The Company is also one of the largest holders of alluvial gold claims in the Yukon and is building a production royalty business by partnering with experienced mining operators, including Parker Schnabel of Little Flake Mining from the Discovery Channel television show, Gold Rush.

All of the districts in which Metallic Minerals operates have seen significant mineral production and have existing infrastructure, including power and road access. The Company is led by a team with a track record of discovery and exploration success on several major precious and base metal deposits in the region, as well as having large-scale development, permitting and project financing expertise. The Metallic Minerals team has been recognized for its environmental stewardship practices and is committed to responsible and sustainable resource development.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Website: www.metallic-minerals.com Phone: 604-629-7800

Email: cackerman@mmgsilver.com Toll Free: 1-888-570-4420

Footnotes:

See news release dated July 31, 2023: https://mmgsilver.com/news/2023/metallic-minerals-expands-resource-at-la-plata-copper-silver-gold-pge-project-in-southwestern-colorado-usa/

Qualified Persons

Jeff Cary, CPG, a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical disclosure not pertaining to the resource estimate contained in this news release. Mr. Cary is a Senior Geologist and La Plata Project Manager for Metallic Minerals.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts including, without limitation, statements regarding potential mineralization, historic production, estimation of mineral resources, the realization of mineral resource estimates, interpretation of prior exploration and potential exploration results, the timing and success of exploration activities generally, the timing and results of future resource estimates, permitting time lines, metal prices and currency exchange rates, availability of capital, government regulation of exploration operations, environmental risks, reclamation, title, statements about expected results of operations, royalties, cash flows, financial position and future dividends as well as financial position, prospects, and future plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. Although Metallic Minerals believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include failure to obtain necessary approvals, unsuccessful exploration results, unsuccessful operations, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, risks associated with regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, uninsured risks, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. Readers are cautioned that mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Mineral exploration, development of mines and mining operations is an inherently risky business. Accordingly, the actual events may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on Metallic Minerals and the risks and challenges of their businesses, investors should review their annual filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Metallic Minerals Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784166/metallic-minerals-provides-update-on-expansion-drilling-at-la-plata-copper-silver-gold-pge-project-in-southwest-colorado-usa
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Karus Gold Corp. (the "Corporation" or "Karus") announces that all matters proposed at the Annual General and Special Meeting of shareholders (the "AGSM") held today at 10:00AM Pacific Time were approved, including changes to the Board of Directors ("Board").

As previously disclosed in the information circular sent to shareholders in support of the AGSM, Mr. Joe Ovnesek did not stand for re-election to the Board and Mr. Jay Sujir was nominated in his place. The Board is pleased to announce that Mr. Sujir was elected to the Board at the AGSM. Mr. Sujir is a securities and natural resources lawyer who has 23 years of experience in advising and assisting public companies and is a senior partner at Farris LLP. Mr. Sujir is a member of the Law Society of British Columbia and the Canadian Bar Association.

The Board of Karus would like to thank Mr. Ovnesek for his service and welcomes Mr. Sujir to the Board.

About Karus

Karus is the 100% owner of the 1,000 km2 South Caribou Gold District that includes the drill-stage FG Gold and Gold Creek projects in British Columbia. Further information on Karus and its assets can be found on the Company's website at www.karusgold.com and at www.sedarplus.ca, or by contacting us as info@karusgold.com.

ON BEHALF OF KARUS GOLD CORP.

"Scott Trebilcock"

Scott Trebilcock

Lead Independent Director

For more information, please contact Karus Investor Relations:

(888) 455-7620

info@karusgold.com

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding the business of the Company and the stage of the projects, are forward-looking statements. Although the Corporation believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Corporation cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Corporation are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, the state of the financial markets for the Corporation's equity securities, the state of the commodity markets generally, variations in the nature, quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located, variations in the market price of any mineral products the Corporation may produce or plan to produce, the inability of the Corporation to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required, including Exchange acceptance, for its planned activities, the inability of the Corporation to produce minerals from its properties successfully or profitably, to continue its projected growth, to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies, and other risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Corporation's latest interim Management Discussion and Analysis and filed with certain securities commissions in Canada. All of the Corporation's Canadian public disclosure filings may be accessed via www.sedarplus.ca and readers are urged to review these materials, including the technical report filed with respect to the Corporation's mineral properties.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180664
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Covia's Tunnel City Plant is located in Tomah, Wisconsin. While Tomah is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including some impressive hiking trails and lakes, it is also home to nearly 70 dedicated Covia Team Members.

The plant has been in operation since 2013, mining high quality northern white sand. It produces a variety of products for Covia's Energy Segment. In addition to being a productive and picturesque facility, the plant also has a strong focus on environmental stewardship and community involvement.

The plant continues to partner with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Wisconsin Statewide Karner Blue Butterfly (KBB) Habitat Conservation Plan to create KBB habitats and help preserve this at-risk species. To date, 111 acres have been put into the Habitat Conservation Plan and planted with lupine seed. Team Members at the site regularly count the number of KBB sightings and report this information annually.

Over the past two years, the site has donated nearly $25,000 to organizations in the community. Recently, the plant donated funds to the Wisconsin Troopers Benevolent Foundation. The funds are used to support the families of fallen state troopers. This is especially meaningful because the Wisconsin State Patrol Academy is located just a few miles from the plant and is the training ground for the troopers who protect the citizens of Wisconsin. Extending their impact in the community, the Tunnel City team also contributed time, talent and financial support to Habitat for Humanity of La Crosse for a home build on Wednesday, September 13. Covia Team Members helped build an amazing home for a local veteran!

Covia Team Member, Anna Meyer, securing down floor beams

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Covia on 3blmedia.com.



Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Covia

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/covia

Email: info@3blmedia.com



SOURCE: Covia

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784305/covias-tunnel-city-plant-give-back-to-its-community
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Intellipharmaceutics International Inc. (OTCQB:IPCIF)(TSX:IPCI) ("Intellipharmaceutics" or the "Company"), a pharmaceutical company specializing in the research, development and manufacture of novel and generic controlled-release and targeted-release oral solid dosage drugs, reports, as required by TSX rules, that the five nominees, each of whom was an incumbent director of the Company, identified in the Management Information Circular dated August 1, 2023 (the "Circular") were elected as directors of the Company at the annual meeting of shareholders of the Company held today (the "Meeting"). The voting results, as set out in the scrutineer's report for the Meeting, were as follows:

Name of Nominee Votes For Votes Withheld Dr. Isa Odidi 3,825,956 9,248 99.8% 0.24% Dr. Amina Odidi 3,825,969 9,235 99.8% 0.24% Bahadur Madhani 3,806,196 29,008 99.2% 0.76% Norman Betts 3,827,649 7,555 99.8% 0.20% Shawn Graham 3,827,637 7,567 99.8% 0.20%

All other resolutions tabled for consideration at the Meeting, as set out in the Circular, were also approved by shareholders of the Company. See the Company's Report on Voting Results filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com for additional details.

About Intellipharmaceutics

Intellipharmaceutics International Inc. is a pharmaceutical company specializing in the research, development and manufacture of novel and generic controlled-release and targeted-release oral solid dosage drugs. The Company's patented Hypermatrix technology is a multidimensional controlled-release drug delivery platform that can be applied to a wide range of existing and new pharmaceuticals.

Intellipharmaceutics has developed several drug delivery systems based on this technology platform, with a pipeline of products (some of which have received FDA approval) in various stages of development. The Company has ANDA and NDA 505(b)(2) drug product candidates in its development pipeline. These include the Company's abuse-deterrent oxycodone hydrochloride extended release formulation ("Oxycodone ER") based on its proprietary nPODDDS novel Point Of Divergence Drug Delivery System (for which an NDA has been filed with the FDA), and Regabatin XR (pregabalin extended-release capsules).

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements in this document constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and/or "forward-looking information" under the Securities Act (Ontario). These statements include, without limitation, statements expressed or implied regarding our expectations regarding our plans, goals and milestones, status of developments or expenditures relating to our business, plans to fund our current activities, risks associated with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), including its impact on our business and operations and on the Company's upcoming AGM and statements concerning our partnering activities, health regulatory submissions, strategy, future operations, future financial position, future sales, revenues and profitability, projected costs and market penetration and risks or uncertainties related to our ability comply with OTCQB Venture Market and TSX requirements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "appear", "unlikely", "target", "may", "will", "should", "expects", "plans", "plans to", "anticipates", "believes", "estimates", "predicts", "confident", "prospects", "potential", "continue", "intends", "look forward", "could", "would", "projected", "set to", "seeking" or the negative of such terms or other comparable terminology. We made a number of assumptions in the preparation of our forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements, which are subject to a multitude of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, future circumstances or events to differ materially from those stated in or implied by the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties relating to us and our business can be found in the "Risk Factors" section of our latest annual information form, our latest Form 20-F, and our latest Form F-1 and Form F-3 registration statements (including any documents forming a part thereof or incorporated by reference therein), as amended, as well as in our reports, public disclosure documents and other filings with the securities commissions and other regulatory bodies in Canada and the U.S., which are available on www.sedar.com and www.sec.gov. The forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and are based on what we believe are reasonable assumptions as of the date of this document and we disclaim any intention and have no obligation or responsibility, except as required by law, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Trademarks used herein are the property of their respective holders.

Unless the context otherwise requires, all references to "we," "us," "our," Intellipharmaceutics," and the "Company" refer to Intellipharmaceutics International Inc. and its subsidiaries.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Company Contact:

Intellipharmaceutics International Inc.

Isa Odidi

Chief Executive Officer

416.798.3001 ext. 106

investors@intellipharmaceutics.com

SOURCE: Intellipharmaceutics International Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/784261/intellipharmaceutics-reports-director-election-results
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Pedro Resources Ltd. (CSE: VBN) ("Pedro" or the "Company") reports that it continues to work towards closing the proposed $725,000 convertible debenture private placement financing (the "Offering") announced by the Company on July 14, 2023.

The Company expects to close the Offering in or around early October.

About Pedro Resources Ltd.

Pedro Resources Ltd. is a Canadian exploration company listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange focused on mineral exploration and development.

For further information, contact:

On behalf of the Board

Brian Stecyk

Chief Executive Officer and Director

Tel: 780-953-0111

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements or information. More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements and information relating, the filing of the Company's financial statements. The forward-looking statements and information are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by management of the Company. Although management of the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements and information are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements and information since no assurance can be given that they will prove to be correct.

Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about the current expectations and plans of management of the Company relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such statements and information may not be appropriate for other purposes, such as making investment decisions. Since forward-looking statements and information address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and no undertaking is given to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180651
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Safe Supply Streaming Co. Ltd. ("Safe Supply" or "SSSC" or "the Company"), the first company investing in and incubating companies at the forefront of the third wave of drug policy reform, is pleased to announce it will be discussing emerging investment opportunities in jurisdictions around the world as they move to decriminalize, legalize and regulate many previously scheduled drugs, on a highly anticipated expert panel at the upcoming the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago.

The conference will be held at Magnificent Mile Marriott in Chicago on September 27-28, 2023 and will include an expert panel on the third wave of drug policy reform, which will feature Safe Supply's CEO, Bill Panagiotakapolous.

Mr. Panagiotakapolous will be sharing the stage with two industry pioneers, David Craig, CEO of Harbour and Geoff Benic, CEO of Safety Strips. Representing different facets of the safe supply ecosystem, each leader brings a unique perspective to the table, - from capital formation (Safe Supply) to nutraceutical development using the coca leaf (Harbour) to pioneering testing and prevention strategies in the fight against fentanyl overdoses (Safety Strips).

An Invitation to Investors

Safe Supply invites investors to be a part of this pivotal journey in human history, offering a promising opportunity to be at the forefront of a seismic shift in global policy that is expected to create a $360 billion dollar industry. With a skilled team of former cannabis and psychedelics pioneers and banking executives who have previously underwritten incredible successes, Safe Supply is scripting a new narrative that transcends boundaries, offering a promising investment avenue that marries growth with responsibility and innovation.

Join us at the Benzinga event as we unveil a future that promises to redefine the contours of the human experience, setting a benchmark for growth and innovation in the global wellness sector.

For further details, please contact:

McKenna Miller

KCSA Strategic Communications

safesupply@kcsa.com

About Safe Supply

With a mission to help bring a responsible end to the war on drugs, Safe Supply Streaming Co. Ltd. is investing in and incubating companies at the forefront of the third wave of drug policy reform. As jurisdictions around the world move to decriminalize, regulate and legalize drugs, Safe Supply is investing in the infrastructure necessary to support the transition. From developing the facilities to analyze, manufacture and distribute psychoactive compounds including the coca plant, to investing in the research and innovation to harness the potential, and minimize the harm, of these medicines, to constructing the clinical infrastructure to ensure safe and responsible access and treatment, Safe Supply is building a platform of tightly woven companies that will help save millions of lives and build a safer, healthier post-war on drugs worlds.

Learn more at www.safesupply.com and follow Safe Supply on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.

For Further Information:

Bill Panagiotakopoulos

Chief Executive Officer and Director

Safe Supply Streaming Co. Ltd.

www.safesupplystreaming.com

bill@safesupplystreaming.com

Media contacts:

McKenna Miller

KCSA Strategic Communications

safesupply@kcsa.com

Forward-Looking Information and Statements

Certain statements in this news release related to Safe Supply and Origin are forward-looking statements and are prospective in nature, including but not limited to the express or implied statements and assumptions regarding the intention of Origin and Safe Supply to complete the Transaction. Forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts, but rather on current expectations and projections about future events, and are therefore subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "may", "should", "could", "intend", "estimate", "plan", "anticipate", "expect", "believe", "will" or "continue", or the negative thereof or similar variations. There are numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and Origin's and Safe Supply's plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information, including but not limited to adverse market conditions and risks inherent in Origin's and Safe Supply's respective businesses. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. These and all subsequent written and oral forward-looking information are based on estimates and opinions of management on the dates they are made and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this press release. Except as required by applicable law, Origin and Safe Supply do not intend to update these forward-looking statements. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, there can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed, or at all. Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular and/or listing statement to be prepared in connection with the Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of Origin should be considered highly speculative.

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release and accepts no responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy hereof.

None of the securities to be issued in connection with the Transaction have been, or will be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to any U.S. Person (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities in any jurisdiction where such offer or solicitation would be unlawful, including the United States.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180701
Driven by advances in technology from Adobe, Amazon Web Services and NVIDIA, this disruptive innovation moves Media.Monks' broadcast systems into a new arena

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Media.Monks, the purely digital operating brand of S4Capital plc, is announcing an AI offering that will infuse machine learning into its software-defined production solution to deliver fans hyper-personalized content across new media formats. Media.Monks will share more details alongside NVIDIA and Amazon Web Services on stage at the 2023 International Broadcasting Convention (IBC) from 15 - 18 September in Amsterdam, NL.

The proprietary system utilizes AI and machine learning to select highlights from live broadcasts and more effectively distribute custom content highlights to tailored, interest-based audiences.

"Our goal is to deliver a more personalized experience for consumers and brands as efficiently as possible," said Lewis Smithingham, SVP of Innovation at Media.Monks. "Fans are increasingly craving personalized content they can watch on non-linear channels, so we're using the latest GPUs, networking technologies and software platforms from NVIDIA and AWS to build upon our next-generation broadcasting solution and deliver the content people most want to watch."

"The future of broadcast is AI-powered and software-defined," said Bob Pette, Vice President and General Manager of Professional Visualization at NVIDIA. "Our collaboration with Media.Monks will help deliver a more engaging and personalized experience for brands and consumers."

By eliminating the need for single-use broadcast appliances, Media.Monks' software-defined production system provides limitless versatility to meet the ever-changing demands of multi-format delivery to new media forms, screens and platforms.

The Excellence in Sustainability Award-winning workflow significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions commonly associated with live broadcast production workflows.

Available immediately as a production, consulting and integration service, software-defined production increases reliability through cloud redundancy and distributed global staffing--and slashes costs from traditional broadcast set-ups by an estimated 50% or more.

The system can be efficiently cloud-deployed on Amazon Web Services (AWS) in a standard or edge ecosystem, or deployed locally to allow a nimble crew to capture live content on-site for distribution to remote teams.

Livestreaming multi-camera shows at up to 5K 60fps, and at speeds of 50Mbps or greater from event locations to viewers globally, is made possible by collaborations with pioneering companies including Adobe, AWS, Central Control, Frame.io, NVIDIA, RED Digital Cinema, The Switch and Vizrt.

Media.Monks will join their collaborators on stage and share practical takeaways for next-generation broadcasting and the future of immersive media during three sessions at IBC 2023.

16 September 2023, 10:00-10:45 | "How to approach AI and gain a competitive edge" | Join Media.Monks, Peacock TV, and mireality for a discussion on experimentation in AI and practical use-cases for the now.

| "How to approach AI and gain a competitive edge" | Join Media.Monks, Peacock TV, and mireality for a discussion on experimentation in AI and practical use-cases for the now. 16 September 2023, 14:30-15:15 | "Tuned Into Tomorrow: Software-defined broadcast" | Join Media.Monks, AWS and NVIDIA in this panel, where we will explore the foundations of true software-defined broadcast infrastructure and the creative workflows that it enables.

| "Tuned Into Tomorrow: Software-defined broadcast" | Join Media.Monks, AWS and NVIDIA in this panel, where we will explore the foundations of true software-defined broadcast infrastructure and the creative workflows that it enables. 18 September; 13:00-13:30 | "Is in-game advertising a game-changer?" | Join Media.Monks, EA Games, Activision Blizzard Media and Omdia for a conversation on the opportunities for in-game advertising and how the industry's key players are leveraging streaming services to reach gamers and promote their products.

Follow Media.Monks on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates from the floor at IBC2023.

About Media.Monks

Media.Monks is the purely digital operating brand of S4Capital plc that connects 8,600+ digital natives across one global team. We are united by a mission to shift industries forward and pave the path towards ambitious outcomes so our clients and our people can realize their full potential for growth. Our unified model combines solutions in media, data, social, platforms, studio, experience, brand and technology services to help our clients continuously reinvent themselves throughout increasingly rapid cycles of disruption. Our efforts to shape culture, build innovative technologies and unlock the future of growth have earned recognition from numerous esteemed panels: we maintain a constant presence on Adweek's Fastest Growing lists (2019-22), regular recognition at Cannes Lions, inclusion in AdExchanger's Programmatic Power Players (2020-23), the title of Webby Production Company of the Year (2021-23), a record number of FWAs, and have earned a spot on Newsweek's Top 100 Global Most Loved Workplaces 2023. Together, these achievements solidify our experience in digital innovation, excellence in craft, and commitment to personal growth.

About S4Capital

S4Capital plc (SFOR.L) is the tech-led, new age/new era digital advertising, marketing and technology services company, established by Sir Martin Sorrell in May 2018.

Our strategy is to build a purely digital advertising and marketing services business for global, multinational, regional, and local clients, and millennial-driven influencer brands. This will be achieved by integrating leading businesses in three practices: Content, Data&digital media and Technology Services, along with an emphasis on 'faster, better, cheaper, more' execution in an always-on consumer-led environment, with a unitary structure.

Victor Knaap, Wesley ter Haar, Christopher S. Martin, Scott Spirit and Mary Basterfield all joined the S4Capital Board as Executive Directors. The S4Capital Board also includes Rupert Faure Walker, Paul Roy, Daniel Pinto, Sue Prevezer, Elizabeth Buchanan, Naoko Okumoto, Margaret Ma Connolly, Miles Young and Colin Day.

The Company now has approximately 8,600 people in 32 countries with approximately 70% of revenue across the Americas, 20% across Europe, the Middle East and Africa and 10% across Asia-Pacific. The longer-term objective is a geographic split of 60%:20%:20%. Content currently accounts for approximately 60% of revenue, Data&digital media 30% and Technology Services 10%. The long-term objective for the practices is a split of 50%:25%:25%.

Sir Martin was CEO of WPP for 33 years, building it from a 1 million 'shell' company in 1985 into the world's largest advertising and marketing services company, with a market capitalisation of over 16 billion on the day he left. Prior to that Sir Martin was Group Financial Director of Saatchi & Saatchi Company Plc for nine years.

Media contact:

Sarah Murray

402-658-9341

sarah.murray@mediamonks.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211454/MediaMonks.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/mediamonks-revolutionizes-the-fan-experience-with-software-defined-production-and-ai-301928550.html
Actio Biosciences, a San Diego, CA-based biotechnology company, closed a $55m Series A financing.

The round was led by Canaan and DROIA Ventures, with participation from existing investors Deerfield Management and EcoR1, as well as new investor Euclidean Capital.

Actio is leveraging a novel platform approach to genetics and precision medicine to develop new therapeutics that target shared underlying biology in both rare and common diseases. The companys platform comprises a vast proprietary target database, called the Rare Disease Target Atlas, and expertise in bioinformatics, biology and chemistry.

Actio will initially focus on identifying targets and advancing programs for rare disease indications and plans to leverage insights throughout the development process to inform potential relevance of those targets in more common diseases. Its pipeline is led by a program targeting TRPV4, an ion channel target identified as high-value through the companys platform. Actio plans to initially evaluate it for the treatment of rare diseases caused by TRPV4 mutations, including Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2C (CMT2C), characterized by severe muscle weakness, vocal cord paresis and respiratory complications, as well as serious bone diseases, such as metatropic dysplasia.

The company has established a partnership with the Rare Disease Translational Center at The Jackson Laboratory (JAX), a nonprofit biomedical research institution, dedicated to understanding the molecular underpinning of rare diseases and their treatments. Actio is partnering with JAX to evaluate targets and phenotypes of interest in high-quality genetically engineered mouse models at scale, enabling a high level of confidence in the outcomes observed. The company is also collaborating with prominent academic centers to provide further validation of the role of certain genes in disease, as well as insights into disease pathology to better inform the design of preclinical studies, rare patient natural history studies and future clinical trials.

The full Actio leadership team and board include the following:

Leadership Team

David Goldstein, Ph.D., co-founder and CEO

David Breckenridge, Ph.D., chief scientific officer

John Link, Ph.D., senior advisor, drug discovery

Sunil Sahdeo, Ph.D., vice president, biology

Nick Stock, Ph.D., senior vice president, chemistry

Ali Torkamani, Ph.D., vice president, bioinformatics and genetics

Anne Sandan, CPA, vice president, human resources and finance operations

Board of Directors

George Golumbeski, Ph.D., board chairman and partner, DROIA Ventures

Jason Fuller, Ph.D., board member and partner, Deerfield Management

David Goldstein, Ph.D., board member and CEO, Actio

Nina Kjellson, board member and general partner, Canaan

John McHutchison, AO, M.D., board member and co-founder, Actio

Alex Tkachenko, Ph.D., board member and executive in residence, EcoR1

FinSMEs

14/09/2023
Databricks, a San Francisco, CA-based Data and AI company, raised over $500m in Series I funding which valued it at $43 billion.

This establishes the price per share at $73.50.

The round was led by funds and accounts advised by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc., which was joined by other existing investors, including Andreessen Horowitz, Baillie Gifford, ClearBridge Investments, funds and accounts managed by Counterpoint Global (Morgan Stanley), Fidelity Management & Research Company, Franklin Templeton, GIC, Octahedron Capital and Tiger Global, along with new investors Capital One Ventures, Ontario Teachers Pension Plan and NVIDIA.

Led by Ali Ghodsi, Co-Founder and CEO, Databricks is a Data and AI company whose lakehouse platform is used by more than 10,000 organizations worldwide  including Comcast, Conde Nast, and over 50% of the Fortune 500  to unify their data, analytics and AI, and govern, manage and derive insights from enterprise data and build their own generative AI solutions.

The funding follows a Q2 (ended July 31, 2023), which includes the follwing milestones:

Crossed $1.5B revenue run rate at over 50% revenue year-over-year growth with the second quarter

Ended the quarter with more than 10,000 global customers, including >300 customers consuming at $1M+ annual revenue run-rate

Achieved record Non-GAAP subscription gross margins of 85%

Closed acquisition of MosaicML, a generative AI platform

Delivered 20 product and feature releases at the Data and AI Summit in June with over 30,000 global attendees

FinSMEs

14/09/2023
Glass Health, a San Francisco, CA-based provider of an AI-powered clinical decision support platform, raised $5M in funding.

The round was led by Initialized Capital, with participation from Tom Lee, founder of One Medical, Epocrates, and Galileo Health; Connor Landgraf, founder and CEO of Eko Health; and Heather Hasson & Trina Spear, the co-founders of FIGS.

The company intends to use the funds to expand operations and its development efforts.

Led by Dereck Paul, MD, Glass Health aims to provides clinicians with generative AI tools that will help end the epidemic of clinician burnout and improve patient outcomes worldwide. The companys platform leverages large language models to assist with differential diagnosis and clinical plan drafting.

Glass Health intends to partners with hospitals, health systems, and medical training programs.

Other investors in the company included Breyer Capital, and Y Combinator.

FinSMEs

14/09/2023
mimbi, a Paris, France-based startup specializing in data analysis for Retail Media, raised 1.5m seed funding round.

The round was led by Founders Future and OVNI Capital with participation from Kima Ventures, and Better Angels.

The company intends to use the funds to enhance its platform, empowering brands to refine their retail media expenditures.

Founded by Mickael Froger and Frederic Clement, two e-commerce technology experts, mimbi provides a SaaS platform that leverages advanced data analytics to enable brands to measure return on investment for their advertising campaigns on e-commerce sites.

The startup has also completed its board of directors with the arrival of Emmanuel Grenier, former CEO of Cdiscount, and Marc Menase, founder of Founders Future.

FinSMEs

14/09/2023
Parade, a San Francisco, CA-based capacity management platform for freight brokers, raised $17M in funding.

The round was led by I Squared Capital with participation from Menlo Ventures, Greenhawk Capital, Jones Capital, The House Fund, Operator Stack, Earthshot Ventures, Lineage Logistics, 9Yards Capital, Redbird Capital, Rising Tide Fund, McVestCo, Ubiquoss, and strategic angels including Malte Janzarik.

The company intends to use the funds to develop and enhance more products that accelerate freight brokers ability to transact freight at scale, including the use of Generative AI to turn conversations into freight bookings, and to expand and deepen its integration ecosystem with new and existing partner transportation management systems (TMS), load boards, rating benchmarks, visibility platforms, and compliance solutions.

Led by CEO and Co-Founder Anthony Sutardja, Parade provides a software platform for freight brokers, offering truckload capacity management that drives carrier access and digital transformation. Users can manage relationships, increase truckload capacity, and re-utilize carriers to find the right truck at the best price at the right time.

FinSMEs

14/09/2023
Unlock Technologies, a NYC-based home equity investment technology company, received a $100M revolving credit facility.

Texas Capital Bank provided the financial resources.

The company intends to use the funds to purchase home equity agreement (HEA) contracts to serve the growing needs of its HEA investments.

Founded in 2020 and led by CEO Jim Riccitelli, Unlock Technologies is a financial technology company providing products and services that help consumers solve financial challenges and improve their financial health. Its flagship product is its home equity agreement (HEA), a financing option for homeowners who want to access the equity they have built in their homes without taking out a loan.

FinSMEs

14/09/2023
Language: Hindi

Cast: Avinash Tiwary, Kay Kay Menon, Kritika Kamra, Jitin Gulati, Saurabh Sachdeva, Nivedita Bhattacharya, Vivan Bhatena and Aditya Rawal

Director: Shujaat Saudagar

Bambai Meri Jaan shows how a righteous police officer, Ismail Qadri (Kay Kay Menon) gets trapped with four children in Bombay during the mid-sixties. He sends his second son, the brightest among his kids to an English medium school because a soothsayer once told him that this particular kid is going to do something big in life. But unfortunately the big, turns out to be something different in the future. Menon senses his sons aspirations were high and so was his desires, but little did he know that the means that he will adopt is going to be immoral.

The show is set against the backdrop of the world of 1960s Bombay, the underworld rising through the ranks, and gang wars and rivalries. Bambai Meri Jaan has taken inspiration from the book written by former investigative journalist Hussain Zaidi Hussain Zaidis Dongri To Dubai. Bambai Meri Jaan traces the evolution of the present day organised crime by a mafia gang common in the city of dreams Bombay who in their initial years were smugglers and muggers. How the gangs are built up and how the gang war starts with the different shades of family life with proper back stories, is what the show can boast of. Each character has depth. Kritika Kamra as Habiba also has an important role to play. The transition of her character too cannot be ignored. That is the best part of series or rather the digital platform, everybody has an important role to play. The makers of Bambai Meri Jaan recreated the citys landscape from the post-independence era.

The place where Bambai Meri Jaan fails is the over-stretch which to some extent gets boring and takes out the fun of watching a series. 10 episodes with a run time of 50 minutes each gets a little too tedious for the viewers. But the good thing about the show is that it creates characters who are perfectly grey which is close to reality. Getting back to the making of the uncrowned king of Bombay Underworld, the show talks about the making of this man from rags to riches.

The show very intelligently focuses on the grey characters and subtly makes a statement that no matter how much we hail a gangster; he is clearly at fault. Never once does the father, Ismail Qadri (Kay Kay Menon) hail the wrong doings of his son Dara (Avinash Tiwary). The show never tries to hail Dara just because he belongs to the have-nots. The strange thing is how greed hits home too. The mother knows everything, but is in a state of denial and very clearly she was so busy with the household chores that she fails to give the right upbringing to her children. She too is a perfect grey character trapped in poverty, she too cant keep her hands on the luxuries of life.

Building up the character of Dara (Avinash Tiwary) and his journey is gripping. The transition that he goes through is interesting. Kay Kay Menon known to be a craftsman who never compromises on his craft, the character and the pain of Ismail Qadri is real through all his expressions. A man of few words, his eyes do all the talking in the show and shows pain that he is going through. He is the real gold in the show.

But Bambai Meri Jaan lacked freshness. It was like any other gangster drama trying to show the fight between the haves and the have nots. Havent we seen enough of these crime thrillers before?

Rating: 3 out of 5

Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News,

India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Security forces are engaged in gun battle in South Kashmirs Anantnag area and have encircled two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists. This comes a day after three security force officers  an Army Colonel, a Major, and a deputy superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police  were killed in action.

In solemn tribute to the unwavering valor of Col Manpreet Singh,Major Ashish Dhonak & DSP Humayun Bhat who laid down their lives leading from the front during this ongoing operation. Our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LET terrorists including Uzair Khan  Kashmir Zone Police (@KashmirPolice) September 14, 2023

The action in the region has once again put the focus on south Kashmir, especially the Pir Panjal forest range, after a temporary lull.

We take a closer look at how the forests and the adjoining area have seen a rise in terrorism and how security personnel are putting their lives on the line to ensure safety and peace in the region.

Terrorists drawn to Pir Panjal area

Security experts have noted that in recent months, the areas of the Pir Panjal range, Poonch and Rajouri have seen an increase in terrorism. They believe that Anantnag located between the Pir Panjal range and Srinagar with access towards Doda makes it an important destination for terrorists.

The encounter currently ongoing in Kashmir is also being carried out in Anantnag, with officials circling two LeT terrorists, including commander Uzair Khan.

Officials state that the terrain of the area provides terrorists with great hiding and cordoning the area is very difficult. Some officials have added that the topography of the Pir Panjal range is as tough as Afghanistans mountains and hence, provide the perfect hiding spot for terrorists.

Moreover, the forests in the area are interconnected; this means, that the terrorists can carry out their nefarious activities in one area and then go hide in another, giving the security personnel a run-around.

In fact, authorities have found that the terrorists infiltrating the area either head to their hideouts or head towards a sympathiser, whose geo-coordinates are known and fed to their phones. In some cases, the terrorists also take shelter in the houses of the locals forcibly.

An official had told The Hindu in a report that several villagers had informed the security personnel that these terrorists line up the family members and use their smartphones to download an application and communicate across the LoC and then delete it immediately. A few times they also click their photographs and forwarded them to their handlers across the LoC, in a bid to threaten the families.

An official further added that in some pockets of the Pir Panjal area, cellular services from Pakistan are active and can be detected on phones too.

Earlier, an Army commander in June had been quoted as saying that the focus of infiltration has now shifted to south of Pir Panjal. Infiltrators are now trying the Rajouri-Poonch routes, the areas of south of Pir Panjal. The focus of infiltration has largely now shifted to south of Pir Panjal and in fact, there are inputs that some people may have also trickled in via Nepal, he was quoted as saying to GreaterKashmir.com.

Terrorist incidents in Kashmir

Terrorism in Kashmir has reduced drastically since 2020, but still prevails in pockets. According to official data, there have been a total of 251 terrorist incidents in Jammu and Kashmir since 2021; 15 occurred in Jammu regions three districts, while 236 occurred in the Valley.

The data also reveals that in the past three years, a total of 24 security personnel and 75 civilians were killed on both sides of Pir Panjal mountain range in Jammu and Kashmir.

Prior to the ongoing encounter in Anantnag, there have been a few high-profile incidents in the Pir Panjal and nearby areas. In May, five soldiers from the Armys Special Forces died in Rajouri in a terror attack. Two weeks before, five soldiers were killed in Poonch when their truck was ambushed by terrorists.

In August 2022, a terror attack had taken place on a military camp in Rajouri, claiming the lives of five soldiers. In October 2021, nine soldiers, including a JCO, were killed in two separate encounters with terrorists between Bhata Durian and Dehra Ki Gali.

With inputs from agencies
Tensions continue to simmer in Jammu and Kashmirs Anantnag where three security officers lost their lives in an encounter with terrorists on Wednesday (13 September). Security forces have launched a counter-terror operation to flush out terrorists in Anantnags Kokernag area.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police said today (14 September) that the security forces have encircled two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists, including one named Uzair Khan.

In solemn tribute to the unwavering valor of Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak & DSP Humayun Bhat who laid down their lives leading from the front during this ongoing operation. Our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LeT terrorists including Uzair Khan, Kashmir Zone Police said in a post on X.

Three officers, including deputy superintendent (DySP) of J&K Police Humayun Bhat and Indian Armys Colonel Manpreet Singh and Major Ashish Dhonack, were martyred in the gunfight with terrorists. Terror outfit The Resistance Front (TRF) has claimed responsibility for the killings.

What is the TRF and how has it become a security concern in J&K? We explain.

Origins of TRF

The Resistance Front is an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba which came into existence as an online entity following the abrogation of Article 370 and revocation of special status to J&K in August 2019.

As per Indian Express, TRF, which is based in Pakistans Karachi, on the ground is a blend of several organisations, including LeT, Tehreek-e-Millat Islamia and Ghaznavi Hind.

A senior security official told the newspaper that the militant outfit was named The Resistance Front so as not to give it a religious colour but to portray it as a peoples movement in order to avoid scrutiny under the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

Lashkar and Jaish-e-Mohammad had religious connotations and Pakistan did not want that. They wanted to make Kashmir militancy appear indigenous. Hence, they opted for Resistance  that has some currency in global politics  in its name, the officer told Indian Express.

Notably, Pakistan was put on the Paris-based watchdog FATFs grey list of countries in 2018 and was only removed last October. Those countries which FATF deems have failed to prevent international money laundering and terrorist financing are placed on its global watchlist.

TRF has been taking responsibility for attacks in Jammu and Kashmir since 2020. Its leadership included Sajid Jatt, Sajjad Gul and Salim Rehmani, all associated with Lashkar, as per the Indian Express report.

Officials believe that making TRF claim responsibility for attacks was done to divert attention from LeT and other terror groups under the purview of FATF, the report added.

The new outfit was formed with the purpose to maintain plausible deniability to Pakistan for attacks in India while it was under the scrutiny of the FATF, a a senior intelligence official told Hindustan Times (HT).

India bans TRF

In January this year, the Centre banned TRF which it said was a proxy of Hafiz Muhammad Saeed-led LeT.

The Resistance Front came into existence in the year 2019 as a proxy outfit of Lashkar-e-Taiba, a proscribed terrorist organisation listed at serial number 5 of the first schedule under the UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act), the ministry of home affairs (MHA) said in a notification at the time.

The ministry further said that TRF is recruiting youth through online medium for furtherance of terrorist activities and has been involved in carrying out propaganda on terror activities, recruitment of terrorists, infiltration of terrorists and smuggling of weapons and narcotics from Pakistan into Jammu and Kashmir.

According to MHA, TRF is involved in psychological operations on social media platforms for inciting people of Jammu and Kashmir to join terrorist outfits against Indian state, reported HT.

The Central government has also declared TRF commander Sajjad Gul a designated terrorist.

ALSO READ: What we know about army officers, policeman killed in J&K encounter

TRF emerges as security threat in J&K

The TRF has been involved in many terror attacks, including the killings of minority Kashmiri Pandits in the valley. The group has also attacked security forces in Kashmir over the last years, reported HT.

According to India Today, TRF has become one of the most active terror groups in India.

As per the J&K Police data for 2022, about 172 terrorists were killed in the valley, out of which 108 belonged to TRF or LeT, followed by Jaish at 35.

Of the 100 individuals recruited by militant groups last year, 74 had joined TRF.

In February, TRF had threatened to kill anyone working for the revenue department or whose machines are used for demolitions during the anti-encroachment drive in J&K.

As per the India Today report, the TRF has claimed responsibility for the latest attack on three security officers in the Anantnag district, saying it was an act of revenge for the killing of their veteran leader in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

LeT commander Riyaz Ahmed, wanted by India, was shot dead inside the Al-Qudus mosque in PoKs Rawalkot on 8 September.

However, ThePrint has reported that the Anantnag encounter was an intelligence-based operation that went haywire, launched on Tuesday evening to bust a hideout of terrorists in the thick jungles of the Kokernag area.

With inputs from agencies
China has denied banning Apples iPhones for government staff at work. Multiple media reports said last week that Beijing has prohibited central government officials from using the Apple devices.

Now, Chinas foreign ministry claims that no such ban has been issued on the purchase and use of foreign phone brands, triggering confusion.

What has the Chinese government said? What were the previous media reports? Lets take a closer look.

What is China saying?

China said on Wednesday (13 September) that it had not notified any laws or regulations forbidding government employees from using or buying foreign phones.

China has not issued laws, regulations or policy documents that prohibit the purchase and use of foreign brand phones such as Apples, Chinas foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, as per Reuters.

She added that Beijing has noticed there have been many media reports about security incidents concerning Apple phones, Bloomberg reported.

Mao further said the Chinese government attaches great importance to information and cyber security and treats both domestic and foreign companies as equals.

We also hope that all mobile phone companies operating in China can strictly abide by Chinas Data Security Law and the Personal Information Protection Law and other laws and regulations, strengthen information security management, and protect consumers data stored in mobile phones from theft by any person or organisation, so as to ensure information security, Reuters quoted the foreign ministry spokesperson as saying.

What was reported earlier?

The purported ban was first reported by The Wall Street Journal which said that China has asked staffers at central government agencies not to use iPhones and other foreign-branded devices for work or even bring these mobile phones to the offices.

The report, citing unnamed sources, said the orders were issued by superiors to the employees via workplace chat groups or meetings.

Six unnamed sources at government institutions and state-owned companies told The Financial Times that they have been asked to stop using iPhones.

A Reuters source at a Chinese regulatory body said that they had not been explicitly forbidden to use iPhones but were warned that they would be held responsible if any issues occurred due to their use of the smartphone.

On 7 September, Bloomberg reported that China is planning to extend the Apple phone ban to state-owned enterprises and other government-controlled organisations.

As per an Associated Press report on 8 September, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao did not comment directly on the matter at the time but said that products and services from any country are welcome to enter the Chinese market as long as they comply with Chinese laws and regulations.

Why would China ban iPhones?

If China indeed bans the use of iPhones, it would be in line with its yearslong efforts to weed out foreign technology use in sensitive environments, noted Bloomberg.

The reports of these supposed restrictions also come at a time when relations between China and the United States have worsened over the last few years. Both countries have taken steps to reduce economic dependence on each other.

According to Al Jazeera, China and the US view each others tech companies as a potential security risk that could give backdoor access to sensitive data and government infrastructure.

Responding to media reports of China planning to extend the ban on American company Apples iPhones recently, the White House called it an attempt to retaliate against the US.

Were watching this with concern, clearly. It seems to be of a piece  of the kinds of aggressive and inappropriate retaliation to US companies that weve seen from the PRC (Peoples Republic of China) in the past. Thats what this appears to be, US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said on Wednesday, as per Bloomberg.

But the truth is, we dont have perfect visibility on exactly what theyre doing and why, and we certainly would call on them to be more transparent about what theyre seeing and what theyre doing, he added.

Meanwhile, Beijing is also trying to give a leg up to domestic companies, including Shenzhen-based Huawei.

The Chinese company recently unveiled the Mate 60 Pro smartphone priced at $1,200 (over Rs 99,000) which tech analysts believe can be a challenger to the iPhone.

Why a ban in China would be bad news for Apple

China is the largest foreign market for Apple, with about a fifth of the companys total revenue coming from sales in the Asian country last year, as per CNN.

Apples majority of iPhones are also made in factories in China.

After last weeks reports, Apples shares tumbled nearly six per cent, leading to the company losing around $200 billion in market capitalization.

Analysts also predict Huaweis new phone will take from Apples market share, reported Bloomberg.

However, Apples tensions are not just limited to China. France has banned the sale of the iPhone 12 as its radiation watchdog said that the smartphone emits electromagnetic radiation levels that are above the European radiation exposure limits.

The National Frequency Agency asked the iPhone maker to implement all available means to rapidly fix this malfunction for phones already being used. If this does not work, Apple will have to recall the already sold phones, reported CBS News citing the French government agency.

Apple has rebuffed the findings saying its device meets the regulations.

With inputs from agencies
Its been three years since COVID-19 struck the globe; countless people have died, and the world saw unprecedented shutdowns. However, we are far from knowing how the disease originated. Was it a case of the infection jumping from an infected animal host into people or was it engineered in Chinas Wuhan lab and then leaked?

Now, there are new claims that once again lend credence to the theory that coronavirus originated in a lab and was then leaked across the world, courtesy a new whistleblowers testimony to US Congress.

A whistleblower from the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has claimed that the US spy agency bribed six of its own analysts to say that COVID-19 did not originate in a Wuhan lab.

What has the CIA officer testified? How has the US spy agency reacted? We dig deep and get you the answers.

Dropping a COVID bombshell

The whistleblower, who claims to be a veteran senior-level serving agency officer, has claimed to a congressional investigation that the CIA had assigned seven officers to a COVID Discovery Team, which consisted of multi-disciplinary and experienced officers with significant scientific expertise.

According to the CIA officer, at the end of its review, six of the seven members of the team believed that intelligence and science were sufficient to make a low confidence assessment that COVID-19 originated from a laboratory in Wuhan, China. The seventh member, the most senior on the team, believed it evolved naturally. The other six were then given a significant monetary incentive to change their position, alleged the whistleblower.

For those who have forgotten, the lab leak theory is a suspicion that coronavirus may have escaped, accidentally or otherwise, from a laboratory in the central Chinese city of Wuhan where the virus was first recorded.

Also read: Is it time to start believing in the COVID-19 lab leak theory?

The claims came to light on Tuesday after Chairman of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic Brad Wenstrup (R-Ohio) and Chairman of the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Mike Turner (R-Ohio) wrote a letter to the CIA director William Burns, requesting all documents, communications and pay information from the CIAs COVID Discovery Team by 26 September.

These allegations, from a seemingly credible source, requires the Committees to conduct further oversight of how the CIA handled its internal investigation into the origins of COVID-19. To assist the committees with their investigations, we request the following documents and information as soon as possible, but no later than 26 September, read part of the letter.

Wenstrup and Turner have also asked for documents and communications between the CIA and other federal agencies, including the State Department, the FBI, the Department of Health and Human Services and the Energy Department.

The New York Post has further reported that the Republican legislators have identified former CIA chief operating officer Andrew Makridis as having played a central role in the COVID investigation and asked him to sit for a transcribed interview.

CIA speaks

Reacting to the allegations, CIA spokesperson Tammy Kupperman Thorp said in a written statement, At CIA we are committed to the highest standards of analytic rigour, integrity, and objectivity. We do not pay analysts to reach specific conclusions. We take these allegations extremely seriously and are looking into them. We will keep our Congressional oversight committees appropriately informed.

The American agency further confirmed that they were looking into the accusations made by the whistleblower.

In the past, the CIA, as per a declassified report, has said that they were unable to determine the precise origin of the COVID-19 pandemic, as both the (natural and lab) hypotheses rely on significant assumptions or face challenges with conflicting reporting.

When asked about the allegations made, the head of a biosafety lab in China said the claim was part of a much-politicised debate in the United States that resurfaced from time to time, despite the World Health Organization concluding in a report that the lab-leak theory was extremely unlikely.

COVID origins

Since the pandemic began, there have been questions and speculation about the origins of the virus. Despite several probes and allegations, the many investigations have failed to reach a definitive conclusion about how the pandemic began.

The US has been at the forefront of determining the cause of the virus and several of its agencies have been probing the matter. Back in 2021, President Joe Biden ordered a 90-day sprint from the intelligence community to examine where COVID-19 came from. The resulting report, however, was inconclusive.

In the same year, in October, a declassified US Intelligence Community assessment stated that two hypotheses are plausible: natural exposure to an infected animal and a laboratory-associated incident. However, the assessment was divided on which hypotheses was correct. It did, however, add that China most likely did not develop the virus as a biological weapon, and most analysts have determined with low confidence the virus wasnt genetically engineered.

The very next year, Senate Republicans released a report saying the most likely origin of the coronavirus was a research-related incident at a lab in China, pointing to biosafety issues at the Wuhan Institute of Virology and a lack of critical corroborating evidence of a natural zoonotic spillover, and while the absence of evidence is not itself evidence, it is highly problematic a natural origin hasnt been proven three years into the pandemic.

In February this year, the origin of the virus again made headlines when the Department of Energy, as per a Wall Street Journal and New York Times report, concluded with low confidence that COVID-19 originated in a laboratory. Interestingly, the FBI concluded the same with moderate confidence.

Unsurprisingly, China has rejected all of these claims, calling it a smear campaign by the United States. The Chinese foreign ministry has even accused US intelligence agencies of politicising the investigation into the origins of the virus.

Many seem to note that the origins of the virus will remain a mystery and will be one of those questions that will haunt scientists forever.

With inputs from agencies
A new study says Earth is now outside its safe operating space for humanity.

The study was published by international scientists in the journal Science Advances on Wednesday.

We are in very bad shape, said study co-author Johan Rockstrom, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany.

We show in this analysis that the planet is losing resilience and the patient is sick.

But what does this mean exactly?

Lets take a closer look:

What happened?

According to CNN, 29 scientists in eight nations examined nine planetary boundaries the planet needs to remain within for humanity to have a liveable home.

These boundaries, first created in 2009, include several key indicators of our planets health such as climate change, biodiversity, freshwater and land use, and the impact of synthetic chemicals and aerosols.

Rockstrom, a climate scientist, said these boundaries determine the fate of the planet and have been scientifically well established by numerous outside studies.

As per Newsweek, the nine boundaries are:

Climate change

Biosphere integrity

Land system change

Freshwater usage

Biogeochemical flows

Novel entities (the percentage of synthetic chemicals released into the environment)

Stratospheric ozone depletion

Atmospheric aerosol loading

Ocean acidification

In most of the cases, the team uses other peer-reviewed science to create measurable thresholds for a safety boundary.

For example, they use 350 parts per million of carbon dioxide in the air, instead of the Paris climate agreements 1.5 degrees (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) of warming since pre-industrial times.

This year carbon in the air peaked at 424 parts per million.

What did the study find?

As per The Guardian, the study found that human behaviour has caused six of these planetary boundaries to be breached.

Worse, two other boundaries  air pollution and ocean acidification  are on the brink of being crossed.

Scientists said that perhaps the most worrying find is that the four biological boundaries are at their highest level of risk.

Biodiversity  the amount and different types of species of life  is in some of the most troubling shape and it doesnt get as much attention as other issues, like climate change, Rockstrom said.

Biodiversity is fundamental to keeping the carbon cycle and the water cycle intact, Rockstrom said.

The biggest headache we have today is the climate crisis and biodiversity crisis.

Water went from barely safe to the out-of-bounds category because of worsening river run-off and better measurements and understanding of the problem, Rockstrom said.

If Earth can manage these nine factors, Earth could be relatively safe. But its not, he added.

The nine factors are intermingled.

When the team used computer simulations, they found that making one factor worse, like the climate or biodiversity, made other Earth environmental issues degrade, while fixing one helped others.

Rockstrom said this was like a simulated stress test for the planet.

The simulations showed that one of the most powerful means that humanity has at its disposal to combat climate change is cleaning up its land and saving forests, the study said.

Returning forests to late 20th Century levels would provide substantial natural sinks to store carbon dioxide instead of the air, where it traps heat, the study said.

However, there is some good news.

The ozone is not under threat after human beings phased out certain chemicals in recent years and the hole in the atmosphere decreased, as per The Guardian.

What does this mean?

Experts say this is a bad sign for humanity.

Katherine Richardson, the lead scientist of the study, warned Newsweek, We humansjust like all other living organismssurvive by using the Earths resources but those resources are limited.

Richardson, a professor of biological oceanography at the University of Copenhagens Globe Institute, added, We can think of the Earths resources as the currency that supports us. The planetary boundaries framework is like a bank statement. It tells us how much of various components, or resources, of the Earth system we can allow ourselves to use without greatly increasing the risk that our activities will lead to dramatic and potentially irreversible changes in overall environmental conditions.

Carnegie Mellon environmental engineering professor Granger Morgan, who wasnt part of the study, said, Experts dont agree on exactly where the limits are, or how much the planets different systems may interact, but we are getting dangerously close.

Ive often said if we dont quickly cut back on how we are stressing the Earth, were toast, Morgan added.

This paper says its more likely that were burnt toast.

Make no sense

Some, however, are skeptical of the doom and gloom.

Carnegie Mellon chemistry and environment professor Neil Donahue said the fact that ozone layer is the sole improving factor shows that when the world and its leaders decide to recognize and act on a problem, it can be fixed.

For the most part there are things that we know how to do to improve the remaining problems, Donahue added.

Speaking to CNN, Oxford University physics professor Raymond Pierrehumbert allowed that planetary boundaries can be useful in certain categories like carbon pollution.

However, he added that when it comes to other measurements like land use change it can be a distraction to argue over where to put the boundary and whether or not it has been exceeded

Stuart Pimm, the Doris Duke chair of conservation ecology at Duke University, told the outlet, The measures they use make no sense and they cannot estimate them.

Pimm in 2018 co-wrote a paper on planetary boundaries and has long-disputed Rockstroms methods and measurements, saying it makes the results not worth much.

University of Michigan environmental studies dean Jonathan Overpeck, who wasnt part of the study, struck a more balanced note.

He called the study deeply troubling in its implications for the planet and people should be worried.

The analysis is balanced in that it clearly sounds a flashing red alarm, but it is not overly alarmist, Overpeck added. Importantly, there is hope.

With inputs from agencies
Devastating floods in northeastern Libya have killed and displaced thousands of people. The desperate search of families for their kin continues as many are still missing in the coastal city of Derna.

Flooding caused by Mediterranean storm Daniel on Sunday (10 September) night washed away swathes of Derna city. The eastern towns of Benghazi, Sousse and Al-Marj have also been affected by the catastrophic flood, which has killed at least 5,100 people in Derna alone so far.

People have started burying the dead in mass graves in the worst-hit city of Derna, while rescue workers are calling for more body bags.

Lets take a closer look at how tragedy has struck Libya.

Fear of epidemic

Authorities fear that the death toll could rise further because of the number of districts ravaged by the flood.

Ossama Ali, a spokesman for an ambulance centre in eastern Libya, said that the number of deaths was expected to mount as at least 9,000 people are still missing.

Derna mayor Abdulmenam al-Ghaithi told Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television that the number of deaths could reach between 18,000 to 20,000. We actually need teams specialised in recovering bodies, al-Ghaithi said, as per Al Jazeera.

I fear that the city will be infected with an epidemic due to the large number of bodies under the rubble and in the water.

Speaking to Al Jazeera, Lutfi al-Misrati, a search team director, said they need bags for the bodies.

Previously, Hichem Abu Chkiouat, the minister of civil aviation in the administration that runs eastern Libya, said that the sea is constantly dumping dozens of bodies, reported The Guardian.

Bodies are everywhere, inside houses, in the streets, at sea. Wherever you go, you find dead men, women, and children, Emad al-Falah, an aid worker in Derna, told Associated Press (AP). Entire families were lost.

The United Nations has also raised alarm over risks of disease from the contaminated water, reported BBC.

According to the UNs International Organization for Migration, at least 30,000 people in Derna have been displaced due to the disaster, while thousands were forced to leave their homes in other eastern Libyan cities.

The casualties in Libya also include dozens of Egyptians and Sudanese migrants.

What caused the devastating floods?

Torrential downpours triggered by a very strong low-pressure system in the Mediterranean caused the devastation in many eastern Libyan cities, as per CNN.

Storm Daniel brought 16 inches of rain to some coastal areas of the country last week over a 24-hour period, which is more than 260 times the monthly average rainfall, reported BBC.

German meteorologist Mojib Latif told German public broadcaster Bayerischer Rundfunk that the floods were likely the result of climate change. He said that very, very hot temperatures in the Mediterranean had come across cold air from the north, reported Deutsche Welle (DW).

Derna, which is located about 300 kilometers east of Benghazi, is home to nearly 100,000 people. Flooding worsened here as two dams outside the city collapsed.

Citing local media, AP reported that these dams that collapsed were built in the 1970s and had not been maintained for years.

According to Asma Khalifa from the German Institute for Global and Area Studies, the disaster was exacerbated because Derna had suffered disproportionately from the civil war in Libya, reported DW.

Khalifa said the situation is more dire for Derna as it was under the control of the Islamic State (IS) terror group in 2013 and 2014.

When the Libyan Arab armed forces tried to liberate it, it was under blockade for two years, she told DW. Its infrastructure is weak, even more fragile than in the other cities in the country.

The North African country has been in chaos since an uprising in 2011, backed by NATO, led to the fall of dictator Muammar Gaddafi. The country is currently run by two rival governments  an internationally recognised Government of National Unity (GNU) based in Tripoli and the other based in Benghazi in the east.

Khalifa also blamed the civil war for the chaotic response to the disaster.

The current situation in Libya

Rescue workers are looking for survivors amid the wreckage caused by the flood.

Many countries including Egypt, Tunisia, Italy, Spain and Turkey have also sent rescue teams to Libya for assistance. However, as flooding cut off many access roads to Derna, it has hampered rescue efforts and the arrival of humanitarian aid in the city, as per AP.

ALSO READ: Sky in Morocco lit up by mysterious lights before earthquake: The science explained

The United Nations has allocated $10 million for the flood victims, reported DW. The United Kingdom has also announced an aid package.

Mabrooka Elmesmary, a journalist who was able to leave Derna on Tuesday, told Al Jazeera that apartment buildings with families inside have been swept away.

Calling the situation in Derna a disaster on a massive scale, she said, There is no water, no electricity, no petrol. Theres a wave of displacement as people are trying to flee Derna but many are stuck because a lot of the roads are blocked or gone, Elmesmary added.

Tragic tales of families losing dozens of relatives have come to light. Speaking to Reuters, Usama Al Husadi, a 52-year-old driver, said, We lost at least 50 members from my fathers family, between missing and dead. He said he has been looking for his wife and five children since the disaster.

Mohamed Eljarh, a Libyan journalist travelling to Derna, told The Guardian that rescuers were yet to reach the coastal town of Sousse and the municipality of al-Sahel.

Hundreds of homes are buried under mud, debris and water. No help has arrived, he said about the situation in Sousse and surrounding villages. Other areas have been similarly affected. The death toll is going to be staggering.

Meanwhile, the head of the UNs World Meteorological Organization Petteri Taalas has said that many deaths in Libya could have been avoided if there had been a functional meteorological service in the country able to issue warnings.

Emergency management forces would have been able to carry out the evacuation of the people, and we could have avoided most of the human casualties, Taalas said, as per AFP news agency.

With inputs from agencies
The debate on the pros and cons of holding simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and state Assemblies is on. But, what would it require to hold one election in the country. Other than bringing amendments to at least five articles of the Constitution and consensus of all political parties, it will need around 30 lakh electronic voting machines (EVMs) and voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) machines, deployment of massive central forces around the country, and a significant workforce of officials to ensure the smooth conduct of the election process.

And how much will it cost? Lets find out.

Nearly Rs 10 lakh crore

A new study on Tuesday pegged the total expenditure on all elections from Lok Sabha to local bodies at Rs 10 lakh crore which could be brought down by Rs 3-5 lakh crore if the voting period is reduced to just a week and parties strictly follow the model code.

The study said the 2024 Lok Sabha polls will involve an expenditure of around Rs 1.20 lakh crore of which the Election Commission is estimated to spend hardly 20 per cent and this does not include expenditure on new electronic voting machines.

According to N Bhaskara Rao, a research-based analyst of public policies, Rs 10 lakh crore is the estimate for holding Lok Sabha, assembly and local body polls (panchayats, zila parishad, municipalities) together.

But the total amount in elections is not necessarily spent by the central and the state governments. Parties too incur expenditure on candidates and campaigning.

Party spending soars before elections

Campaigning often begins even before the election schedule is announced. But parties are only mandated to share election expenditure with the EC from the date polls are announced till the election process is completed.

Also Read: Centre sets up panel on One Nation, One Election: How feasible is the idea?

While there is ceiling on how much candidates can spend on campaigning, there is no such bar on parties. For the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, parties had collected Rs 6,400 crore, they had spent Rs 2,600 crore.

According to Rao, while Rs 1.20 lakh crore is estimated to be spent on Lok Sabha polls in 2024, Rs 3 lakh crore could be spent if all assembly polls are held together. There are a total of nearly 4,500 assembly seats in the country.

He has pegged the cost of holding all municipal elections together at Rs 1 lakh crore. There are nearly 500 municipal seats across the country.

Similarly, for zila parishads (650 seats), mandals (7000 seats) and village (gram) panchayats (2,50,000 seats), the cost of holding polls has been pegged at Rs 4.30 lakh crore).

Simultaneous polls alone cannot reduce the expenditure

Rao said holding simultaneous polls itself was not enough to reduce poll expenditure significantly substantially.

He said the present practice followed by parties on campaigning, effectiveness of the poll panel and strict adherence by parties to the model code of conduct will play an important role in reducing expenditure.

According to Rao, a one-week poll is likely to bring down poll expenditure. He said a rationale poll schedule which is not spread across phases will help reduce poll expenditure.

By having simultaneous polls for different levels what is likely to be reduced visibly is expenditure on travel, printing, media campaign, booth-level logistics.

Without curbing note for vote or voter inducement, poll expenditure will not reduce significantly, he said.

Rao, who headed Centre for Media Studies (CMS), has authored several books on elections and poll expenditure.

Cost of an election



According to the Former Chief Election Commissioner O P Rawat: As of now, the ECI delivers the cheapest election in the world  one dollar, one vote. That means each EVM is used over multiple elections. If there are simultaneous polls, EVMs would be used for three elections as their life span is about 15 years, reports Indian Express.

However, the Election Commission of India has often highlighted the difficulties in having simultaneous elections. According to a 2015 Parliamentary Standing Committee report: The chief issue highlighted by ECI is that simultaneous conduct of elections would require large-scale purchase of Electronic Voting Machines and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail machines. For conducting simultaneous elections, the Commission expects that a total of Rs 9,284.15 crore will be needed for procurement of EVMs and VVPATs. The machines would also need to be replaced every 15 years which would again entail expenditure. Further, storing these machines would increase the warehousing cost, as per an Indian Express report.

According to a reply to Parliament in 2021, the Union government granted states and union territories a total of Rs 5,814.29 crore for holding elections from 2014 to 2019.

With inputs from PTI
Dementia is a global concern.

The number of people living with dementia is rising and there is no cure for the condition.

So far, we have numerous research that investigated how certain types of sedentary behaviour increased the risk of the illness more than others.

Backing the claim is the latest research that suggests spending more than 10 hours a day sitting down in front of the television or driving increases the risk of dementia.

Adults who spend most of their day sitting have a significantly higher risk of getting the illness, according to research.

Lets take a closer look.

Also read: Mind Matters: How air pollution increases the risk of dementia

The more sitting time, the increased risk of dementia

Data on more than 50,000 British individuals aged 60 and over were examined by a team from the Universities of Southern California and Arizona. Over the course of a week, they wore gadgets on their wrists continuously, which tracked activity levels and could tell the difference between lying down and sleeping.

Other sedentary activities include playing video games, using a computer, sitting while commuting, or sitting at a desk at work. Watching TV and driving are two examples of popular sedentary activities. Following the participants for about six years, 414 of them had dementia diagnoses.

The study found a correlation between the condition and sitting for 10 hours or more every day. Those who were inactive for 10 hours a day had an eight per cent higher risk of dementia than those who were sedentary for closer to nine hours a day.

In contrast, those who sat down for 12 hours a day had a 63 per cent higher chance of being diagnosed, and those who sat down for 15 hours a day had a three times higher chance.

Study author Professor Gene Alexander said, We were surprised to find that the risk of dementia begins to rapidly increase after 10 hours spent sedentary each day, regardless of how the sedentary time was accumulated.

This suggests that it is the total time spent sedentary that drove the relationship between sedentary behaviour and dementia risk. Importantly lower levels of sedentary behaviour, up to around 10 hours, were not associated with increased risk.

The study, which was published in the journal Jama Network Open, also found a connection between dementia and the amount of time spent sitting throughout the day, such as extended stretches followed by periods of movement or sitting down followed by short periods of standing.

The studys co-author, Professor David Raichlen, added, Many of us are familiar with the common advice to break up long periods of sitting by getting up every 30 minutes or so to stand or walk around. We found that once you take into account the total time spent sedentary, the length of individual sedentary periods didnt really matter.

The study expands on their earlier work, which looked at how different types of sedentary behaviourlike sitting and watching TVaffect dementia risk in different ways based on self-reported health data.

According to the researchers, more study is required to determine causality and whether physical activity can lessen the incidence of dementia.

Also read: How a man afflicted with polio has survived in an iron lung for 70 years

About dementia

Dementia is not a single disease but is an umbrella term to cover a variety of degenerative neurological illnesses, those affecting the brain, that have an effect on memory, thinking and behaviour.

Alzheimers is the most common cause of dementia. Multiple dementias may coexist in certain individuals.

Every individual will suffer dementia in a different way, regardless of the form that is diagnosed.

The prevalence of dementia is a global concern, although it is more prevalent in developed nations because people are more likely to survive to very old ages.

Also read: Explained: Can nose-picking raise risk of dementia and Alzheimers?

It is on the rise

A nationwide study conducted by researchers from the University of Southern California and AIIMS-Delhi, in collaboration with 18 other institutes, including Mumbais JJ Hospital, to determine the prevalence of dementia has discovered that the condition in India affects 7.4 per cent of seniors, doubling earlier than planned, despite earlier predictions of a rise by 2030.

According to the Alzheimers Society, there are currently over 900,000 dementia sufferers in the UK. By 2040, it is expected to reach 1.6 million.

There are thought to be 5.5 million Alzheimers patients in the US. In the upcoming years, a similar percentage increase is anticipated.

A persons likelihood of having dementia rises with age. Although the rates of diagnosis are rising, many dementia sufferers are still believed to be undetected.

Although there is no cure currently, the earlier it is detected, the more successful therapies can be, as new medications can halt its progression.

Also read: Can children have dementia? Whats the Type 2 Battens disease diagnosed in US children?

With inputs from agencies
A private plane with eight people on board skidded off the runway at the Mumbai airport while landing on Thursday.

The incident occurred in the backdrop of Mumbai witnessing heavy rains.

While no casualties have been reported thus far, the two pilots are said to be in critical condition.

The six passengers on board are also injured.

Lets take a closer look at what we know:

As per The Times of India, the incident occurred at 5.02 pm on runway 27.

The aircraft in question is a Learjet 45 VT-DBL belonging to VSR Ventures.

The Learjet 45 VT-DBL is a nine-seater super-light business jet manufactured by a division of Canada-based Bombardier Aviation, as per NDTV.

VSR Ventures is thought to be a real estate firm based in Bengaluru.

The flight, which was landing at Mumbai, originated in Andhra Pradeshs Vishakhapatnam.

Six passengers and two pilots were on board the private jet.

As per The Times of India, the flight manifest listed Dhruv Kotak, Lars Sorensen, KK Krishnadas, Aakarsh, Shethi , Arul Sali, and Kamakshi as being on board the flight.

The plane veered off the runway while landing amid heavy rain.

The visibility at the time of the incident was 700 metres.

An official told Indian Express, that when a plane lands on Runway Number 27, it usually moves towards Juhu.

However, this plane changed direction and turned 189 degrees.

As per NDTV , CCTV footage shows the plane slamming into the ground and the body of the aircraft skidding for a bit before breaking up.

The wreckage then caught fire but the blaze was quickly put out by emergency responders.

All eight injured were rushed to Criticare Hospital in Mumbais Andheri East, as per BQPrime.

Indian Express reported that both pilots were critically injured.

On 14.09.2023, M/s VSR Ventures Learjet 45 aircraft VT-DBL operating flight from Vizag to Mumbai with 06 passengers and 02 crew members on board, veered off the runway at Mumbai International Airport. The incident occurred at approximately 17:08 PM today. There are no casualties. The CSMIAs airside team is on ground to assist with the clearance onsite, a spokesperson from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) told News18.

Both runways at Mumbai airport were then shut.

According to The Times of India, services resumed on both runways after an inspection.

In the meantime, multiple flights to Goa and Ahmedabad were diverted and some take-offs delayed, as per BQPrime.

With inputs from agencies
At least 2,900 people were killed and about 5,500 more were injured last Friday when a devastating 6.8-magnitude earthquake shook the High Atlas Mountains in Eastern Morocco.

But both scientists and the general public have been intrigued by a strange occurrence that took place before the earthquake. Videos of bright lights blazing across the sky before an earthquake have taken over the internet.

The mysterious aerial phenomenon is known as earthquake light (EQL).

The existence or the cause of vibrant dancing light or its origins have long been debated among scientists. Though there is currently no consensus on their causes, John Derr, a retired geophysicist who had worked for the US Geological Survey, told CNN that they are definitely real.

He claimed that a recent video from Morocco resembled earthquake lights seen on security cameras during an earthquake that struck Pisco, Peru, in 2007.

These lights may help with early detection attempts if they are shown to be connected to seismic activity.

Also Read: Why the Morocco earthquake was so devastating

What are earthquake lights?

The occurrence of light bursts associated with earthquakes has been documented historically for centuries. These light bursts can range in length from quick flashes to minute-long fireballs, and they can appear high or low in the sky and appear in a variety of hues.

Earthquakes can be accompanied by a number of visual phenomena, such as unusual lighting.

The (Morocco) earthquake happened at night time. The condition for earthquake lights to be seen by people and maybe even recorded by cameras would be relatively high, geophysicist Friedemann Freund of the SETI Institute, who reviewed 65 reports of potential earthquake lights, was quoted as saying by the Washington Post.

However, Friedemanns use of the term earthquake lights relates exclusively to the luminescent effects brought on by tectonic plate movement during an earthquake. Friedemann added to the Washington Post that Earth has electrical conductivity.

                              .              7 .      pic.twitter.com/q845XXSlYu    (@Eyaaaad) September 9, 2023

The United States Geological Survey refers to earthquake lights as sheet lightning, balls of light, streamers, and steady glow.

However, there is no conclusive evidence to support an explanation for the puzzling phenomena.

The USGS reports that there is disagreement among geophysicists regarding the degree to which they believe that specific reports of unusual lighting near an earthquakes epicentre actually represent EQL, as per India Today. Some believe that none of the reports are conclusive proof of EQL, while others believe that at least some of the reports could plausibly be related to EQL.

According to Independent, the first photographic evidence of the phenomenon was presented in 1973 by the Japanese geologist Yutaka Yasui, who captured blazing reddish and blue clouds in the sky after a series of earthquakes that shook the city of Matsushiro in 1965 and 1967.

In many other instances, however, both scientists and sceptics question if these sightings are indeed related to earthquakes.

Which ones are actually true, and which ones are products of their imagination, we cant really say, seismologist John Ebel from Boston College told The New York Times.

Also read: Morocco earthquake: Why tourists are not cancelling their travel plans

What causes earthquake lights?

CNN cited Dr Freund and his colleagues 2014 paper on the phenomena as stating that strained rocks, such as basalts and gabbros, a type of coarse, volcanic rock, might discharge charge when activated by seismic waves. These charges have the potential to move towards the surface, combine to form a plasma-like state, and produce electrical discharges in the atmosphere, according to the researchers.

Less than 0.5 per cent of earthquakes globally, according to 2014 research published in the journal Seismological Research Letters, are thought to be accompanied by lights.

  Once more, reports of enigmatic blue lights have surfaced, preceding seismic events in the land of Morocco. A similar phenomenon was witnessed earlier this year in Turkiye, mere moments prior to earthquakes striking both Turkiye and Syria. pic.twitter.com/V7Ht2Xq3qp  Aprajita Choudhary  (@aprajitanefes) September 13, 2023

According to the researchers, these lights are most frequently seen in Italy, Greece, France, Germany, China, and South America, but they have also on occasion been observed in places as far apart as Japan and North America.

The theory suggests electrical charges may amass across a region of the planets surface when earthquakes fracture such electrically conductive rocks in the crust.

At some point, these discharges may be able to draw charged particles from the upper atmosphere, creating light overhead.

However, it is still entirely unknown how the Earths surface, which is electrically conductive, can concentrate and support such high charge densities.

Its one of those persistent mysteries that hang around and never quite get nailed, Independent quoted physicist Karen Daniels as saying to The Times.

When and where does it occur?

According to CNN, in most cases, the phenomenon was noticed before or during the seismic event, and it was visible up 600 kilometres (372.8 miles) from the quake epicentre, according to the study, which gathered data on 65 American and European earthquakes linked to reliable reports of earthquake lights dating back to 1600.

Tectonic plate boundaries or places close by are where earthquakes, especially strong ones, are most likely to strike. The majority of earthquakes connected to light phenomena, according to the 2014 study, took place inside tectonic plates rather than at their edges.

Furthermore, earthquake lights were more likely to occur on or close to rift valleys, regions where the Earths crust had been torn apart in the past, resulting in an extended lowland area that lay between two higher blocks of land.

Also read: A Sad Chapter: How powerful earthquake in Morocco has wiped out parts of history

Morocco earthquake

The death and injury counts have risen as responders have reached more of these remote villages, where they dug up bodies and sent people to hospitals. Moroccan authorities reported 2,946 deaths and several thousand injuries as of Wednesday. The United Nations estimated that the magnitude 6.8 quake had affected some 300,000 people.

According to The Associated Press, the epicentre was high in the Atlas Mountains, about 70 kilometres (44 miles) south of Marrakech in Al Haouz province. The region is largely rural  made up of red-rock mountains, picturesque gorges and glistening streams and lakes.

The earthquake shook most of Morocco and caused injury and death in other provinces, including Marrakech, Taroudant and Chichaoua.

Morocco has deployed ambulances, rescue crews and soldiers to the region to help assist with emergency response efforts.

Aid groups said the government hasnt made a broad appeal for help and accepted only limited foreign assistance.

The Interior Ministry said that it was accepting search and rescue-focused international aid from nongovernmental organizations as well as Spain, Qatar, the U.K. and the United Arab Emirates, bypassing offers from French President Emmanuel Macron and US president Joe Biden.

The Moroccan government said that poorly coordinated aid would be counterproductive, to the frustration of rescue teams.

With inputs from agencies
The suspense is finally over. After over a week of discussions, deliberations and speculation about the agenda for calling a special session of Parliament  beginning on 18 September  the Centre has finally revealed whats in store.

Incidentally, the schedule for the special session came just hours after the government called for an all-party meeting on 17 September. Earlier, the Opposition had slammed the Centre for calling a special session of Parliament but not outlining a programme for it. The Congress Jairam Ramesh had earlier written on X, Today is September 13. The five-day special session of Parliament will commence five days from now and nobody  barring One Man (ok, perhaps the Other One too)  has any sense of the agenda.

His views were also echoed by Trinamool Congress Derek OBrien, who wrote on the social media site: Two working days to go before the Special Parliament Session begins and still not a word on the agenda. Only two people (seen as a reference to the PM and Union Home Minister Amit Shah) know! And we still call ourselves a parliamentary democracy.

So, whats in store for the five-day special session of Parliament? Is it about changing Indias name to Bharat? Not really Read on to find out more.

History of Parliament

As per a bulletin issued by the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, the first day of the special session  18 September  will be reserved to have a discussion on the parliamentary journey of 75 years starting from the Constituent Assembly. The discussion will include achievements, experiences, memories and learnings in the 75 years of the parliamentary journey.

Members are informed that on Monday, the 18th September, 2023, besides other formal business like laying of papers etc, a discussion will be held on the subject Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha  Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings, the bulletin read.

This is significant, given that the government has previously hinted that proceedings would shift from the old Parliament building to the new one during the session. There have been multiple reports that while the first day of the session will be held in the old building, the remaining part of the session will be held in the new building that was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 28 May.

Also read: How new Parliament is readying for special session

Moreover, with a new building, the Parliament staff has also been given new uniforms  with an Indian touch. According to officials, the new uniforms will include Manipuri headgear for the marshals of the two Houses, and shirts with lotus motif (which also adorns the carpets in the Rajya Sabha in the new building) for officers in the table office, notice office and parliamentary reporting sections. All women officers will get sarees with new designs.

Bills to pass in Parliaments special session



Apart from the discussion on the history of Parliament, the bulletin has also listed tentative legislative business expected to be taken up during the upcoming session of the Parliament. The tentative list includes The Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023 and The Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023 to be taken up in the Lok Sabha.

And the Upper House will take up The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023 and the Post Office Bill, 2023.

Of these four, the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill has been highly contentious, with the Opposition suggesting that the government was trying to control the functioning of all independent institutions.

It was introduced in the previous monsoon session of Parliament despite loud calls against it from the Opposition benches. For the unaware, the new bill seeks to replace the current method of appointing the Chief Election Commissioner with a selection committee headed by the prime minister, which will have one Union minister, also nominated by the prime minister, and the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) as its members.

The Opposition has argued that by bringing in the Election Commission under the political ambit it would lose its objectivity. The Congress had slammed the legislation, calling it a blatant attempt at making the Election Commission a total puppet in the hands of the PM.

Surprisingly, the Centre made no mention of bills on the issues of One Nation, One Poll, or Uniform Civil Code or even Womens reservation, as had been speculated earlier. There has also been no mention of changing the countrys name from India to Bharat  fuelled by repeated use of Bharat in multiple official communications during the recently-concluded G20 Summit in New Delhi.

Also read: From India to Bharat: A brief history of the many names of the country

However, some Opposition leaders are wary, with a few of them being quoted as telling Indian Express that there could still be some surprises, and something more substantive, over the five days of the session.

Congress Jairam Ramesh commenting on the agenda said on X, The agenda as published at the moment, is much ado about nothing  all this could have waited till Winter session in November. I am sure the legislative grenades are being kept up their sleeves to be unleashed at the last moment as usual.

Derek OBrien said the not to be taken as exhaustive caveat in the bulletin raised questions and wondered if the government was up to some dirty tricks.

Earlier speculation and rumours

The listed agenda puts an end to the swirling rumours as to why the Centre has convened a special session of Parliament.

Earlier on, many believed that it was the governments way to push the legislation on One Nation, One Election  an idea that is largely supported by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. There has also been conjecture that the Centre had convened this session to push the Uniform Civil Code  an issue on the BJPs manifesto for many years.

Another rumour was that the Modi government wanted to pass the Womens Reservation Bill, which is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modis repeated emphasis on Naari Shakti.

However, the one issue that had perhaps got the most attention was that the Modi Sarkar wanted to change the name of India to Bharat  in line with the governments move of moving away from its colonial past and reclaiming its legacy and prestige. The issue had got further impetus during the G20 Summit when invitations and formal communique showed the name Bharat instead of India.

With inputs from agencies
In an encounter with Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists on Wednesday in the Anantnag region of Jammu and Kashmir, three members of the security forces, including an Army Colonel, were killed.

The forces were searching for the terrorists in the Kokernag region when they learned that they were hiding out there.

Heres all we know about the incident.

Also read: Second terrorist killed during encounter in J&Ks Rajouri

About the Bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice

Officials reported that Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Aashish Dhonchak, and Jammu and Kashmir Police Deputy Superintendent Humayun Bhat were all fatally wounded in the encounter.

Bhats death was caused by significant blood loss, they noted.

The 19 Rashtriya Rifles (19 RR) units commander, Colonel Singh, led his men from the front and fought the terrorists. But when the terrorists opened fire on him, he was critically injured, reported News18.

Sad & Heartbreaking 

Bharat  has lost 3 bravehearts Colonel Manpreet Singh,Major Ashish Dhonack and JK Police Deputy SP Humayun Bhat fighting with Jihadi terrorists in #Anantnag.

Mourning the loss of our brothers

  

Thats the cost of our Freedom ! pic.twitter.com/KiJK1bfddU  Major Surendra Poonia (@MajorPoonia) September 13, 2023

He was originally from the 12th Sikh Light Infantry and had four months left in his assignment with the Rashtriya Rifles. In J&K, the armys counterinsurgency unit is known as the Rashtriya Rifles.

The 41-year-old, who received the prestigious Sena Medal (SM), is a Chandigarh native, according to News9. He is survived by his wife Jagmeet Grewal, an economics lecturer, and their two children, a daughter who is two and a son who is six.

We last spoke to him (Colonel Singh) at 6:45 am. He said he would speak later. He was a good man. Last year, he was awarded the Sena Medal for his duty. I salute him, Colonel Singhs brother-in-law Virender Gill told ANI.

The 34-year-old Major Aashish Dhonchak was the only son of his parents and is survived by his wife and daughter, age 2, who reside in Panipat, Haryana. His three sisters are married and he had last visited his home six months ago to attend his brother-in-laws wedding, reported Hindustan Times.

Last spoke to him on the telephone. He was home one and a half months ago and was supposed to return in October to shift houses, Major Dhonacks uncle told NDTV.

Later, a wreath-laying ceremony for Jammu and Kashmir DSP Humayun Bhat was held, and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha was present to pay respects to the braveheart. A wreath was also placed on Bhats sons body by his father, former J&K police Inspector General (IG) Ghulam Hassan Bhat. Two months ago, Bhat and his wife gave birth to a daughter, as per News9.

Paid tributes to JKPs DySP Humayun Bhat, who laid down his life in an anti-terror operation in Anantnag. I salute the indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice of Col Manpreet Singh & Major Ashish Dhonack. Entire nation stands firmly with their families in this hour of grief. pic.twitter.com/WnNlag9qAX  Office of LG J&K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) September 13, 2023

Deeply saddened by the terrible loss of three young bravehearts Col. Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonack of 19 RR & DySP Humanyun Muzamil Bhat son of retired IG of J&K Police Shree Ghulam Hassan Bhat, Director General of J&K Police Dilbaj Singh said while paying tribute to the J&K police personnel who made the supreme sacrifice.

On behalf of the J&K Police Pariwar DGP J&K Sh Dilbag Singh has condoled the martyrdom of the braveheart officers of J&K Police and Army in an encounter at Gadool,Kokernag,Anantnag.

The DGP has said in his message that he is deeply saddened by the terrible loss of three young pic.twitter.com/pMJSwYE8wX  J&K Police (@JmuKmrPolice) September 13, 2023

Also read: 4 years of Article 370 abrogation: Has security situation improved in J&K?

The joint operation

According to News18, the Indian army and police conducted a joint operation on the intervening nights of 12 and 13 September, after receiving specific details about the presence of terrorists in the Garol area of Anantnag. However, the operation was called off in the middle of the night.

After word spread that the terrorists had been seen at a hideout, the search for them resumed this morning, according to the officials.

According to the army, contact between the two sides was made during the search, and an encounter followed.

Heavy gunfire was directed at the troops being led by the commanding officer and a Jammu and Kashmir police deputy superintendent. According to ThePrint sources, some members of the staff suffered injuries from gunshot wounds, while others suffered injuries from sliding from the cliff.

A jawan also died, according to NDTV, and it is unknown where another soldier is.

The Army helicopters were unable to land close to the scene of the incident due to intense shooting, therefore the three officers who were badly injured could not be saved in time. ThePrint sources claim that when the chopper attempted to land nearby to remove the injured soldiers, the terrorists opened fire.

Among the top officials who have hurried to the scene of the encounter to supervise the operation and evacuation of bodies are Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai, Armys 15 Corps commander, and Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police Dilbag Singh.

In the last 24 hours, there have been two encounters. Earlier, during a tough encounter with terrorists in J&Ks Rajouri district, one army soldier was killed in action and three security forces personnel were injured, according to the police.

The incident also resulted in the deaths of two terrorists. In Rajouri, the operation is still in progress.

Also read: J&K: How Amit Shah abrogated Article 370 and deftly managed the fallout

Tributes pour in

Lt Governor Manoj Sinha on X (formerly Twitter) saluted the courage and supreme sacrifice of Armys bravehearts Rifleman Ravi who laid down his life in the line of duty in Rajouri.

I salute the courage and supreme sacrifice of Armys braveheart Rifleman Ravi who laid down his life in the line of duty in Rajouri. His selfless service to the nation will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to the family of the martyr.  Manoj Sinha (@manojsinha_) September 13, 2023

Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman also took to the micro-blogging site and said, Two army officers and a police officer have lost their lives in a counter-terror operation in #Anantnag, J&K. They have sacrificed themselves to keep us safe. These martyrs have served Bharat with utmost dedication and bravery. My prayers to the Almighty to give strength for their families and friends to bear with this loss.

Two army officers and a police officer have lost their lives in a counter-terror operation in #Anantnag, J&K. They have sacrificed themselves to keep us safe. These martyrs have served Bharat with utmost dedication and bravery.

My prayers to the Almighty to give strength for  Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) September 13, 2023

West Bengal chief minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee offered condolences to the families of the martyred and wrote, I am deeply saddened by the loss of our courageous heroes in the Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir encounter. My heart goes out to their families and loved ones. May the souls of our bravehearts rest in peace. Their dedication to protecting our nation will never be forgotten.

I am deeply saddened by the loss of our courageous heroes in the Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir encounter. My heart goes out to their families and loved ones. May the souls of our bravehearts rest in peace. Their dedication to protecting our nation will never be forgotten.  Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) September 13, 2023

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal also condoled the death of the security personnel and said, I salute their immortal martyrdom.

-                             https://t.co/jYD2HWudy6  Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) September 13, 2023

Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge said, Our brave Army personnel and a DSP have made the supreme sacrifice fighting terrorists in an encounter at Anantnag in Jammu & Kashmir. We are extremely saddened by their loss. Our deepest condolences to the families of our bravehearts. India stands united against terrorism.

Our brave Army personnel and a DSP have made the supreme sacrifice fighting terrorists in an encounter at Anantnag in Jammu & Kashmir. We are extremely saddened by their loss. Our deepest condolences to the families of our bravehearts. India stands united against terrorism.  Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) September 13, 2023

The Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti condoling the death of the security personnel on X said, My deepest condolences to the families of those who were killed in the line of duty at Anantnag today. There is no place for such abominable acts of violence. Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leader Omar Abdullah also expressed his grief over the loss.

My deepest condolences to the families of those who were killed in the line of duty at Anantnag today. There is no place for such abominable acts of violence. https://t.co/W6wlyLIwn9  Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) September 13, 2023

Terrible terrible news from J&K. An army colonel, a major and a J&K Police DYSP gave the ultimate sacrifice in an encounter in Kokernag area of South Kashmir today. DySP Humayan Bhat, Major Ashish Dhonack, and Colonel Manpreet Singh laid down their lives in an encounter with  Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) September 13, 2023

An army dog killed, 3 security personnel injured in another encounter

This incident occurred the day after an encounter between the security forces and terrorists in Rajouri.

Kent, an Indian army dog, gave the ultimate sacrifice during the battle while protecting its handler. Six-year-old female labrador Soldier Kent of the 21 Army Dog Unit was in charge of the operation.

Army dog Kent was at the forefront of Operation Sujaligala. Kent was leading a column of soldiers on the trail of the fleeing terrorists. It came down under heavy hostile fire. While shielding its handler, it laid down its life in the best traditions of the Indian Army, a Defence spokesperson said.

Previously in May, an encounter occurred in the Anantnag district between the militants and the security forces.

After receiving information that militants were present in Andan in the Sangam area of the district, the security forces began a search and cordon operation, a police officer said.

After militants fired on the security troops, the operation changed into an encounter.

With inputs from agencies
Amid recent encounters in Jammu and Kashmir, former J&K Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah called for talks with Pakistan.

He said that these encounters will not be over until a path is not found through which peace can be achieved. He also said that peace cannot be achieved through a fight, and will come through talks.

I dont see the end of this. Today we had an encounter in Rajouri, there are encounters daily. The government shouts daily that militancy is over. Now tell me, is militancy over? This will not be over until a path is not found through which peace can be achieved. Peace cannot be achieved through a fight, it can come through talks, he said.

After meeting the family members of martyred Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police Humayun Bhat, he said, It is a shocking incident, a Colonel, a Major and a Deputy SP were killed (in the encounter).

VIDEO | It is a shocking incident, a Colonel, a Major and a Deputy SP were killed (in the encounter), says National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah after meeting the family members of martyred Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police Humayun Bhat. pic.twitter.com/55R9QKMq5p  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 14, 2023

Three Army personnel, including the colonel and the major, and a deputy superintendent of the Jammu and Kashmir Police were killed in the gunfight with terrorists in the higher reaches of the Kokorenag area in the valley.

Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat were critically injured in the gunfight that ensued in the Garol area of Anantnag district in the morning hours of Wednesday.

The officers succumbed to their injuries during treatment.

With inputs from agencies
India is on good terms with Canada, said Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, but dialogue between the two countries has been paused to make sure that geopolitically and economically, we are all on the same page.

In an exclusive interview with Firstpost, Goyal said there had been certain issues with Canada that are of serious concern.

Watch the full interview here:

We also were in a dialogue with Canada, which for some time we are looking at We have given it a pause to see how we need to take it forward. Why is that? There are several reasons we need to make sure that geopolitically and economically, we are all on the same page. Therefore, the pause on the Canada discussions. Are we not on the same page with Canada? We are on a good page, but we have had certain issues which are of serious concern. They have been highlighted in the bilateral meeting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with Canadian PM Justin Trudeau, and we are hoping for resolution of some of these issues before we take it forward, Goyal said.

You will see that we have a very vast array of negotiations underway. In fact, most teams in the Commerce Ministry are actually doing two-shift working, a morning negotiation with one and another in the evening. You really need to be very sharply focused on each negotiation because you are crystal gazing into 30, 40, 50 years into the future, the Union Minister said.

The Union Minister hailed the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 Summit 2023, which was held under Indias presidency in New Delhi on 9 and 10 September.

The Prime Minister had said that Indias G20 presidency would not be ornamental and would lead up good for the world, Goyal said.

He (PM Modi) was really on the front foot through the Indian G20 presidency. His guidance was immensely useful for the entire team, including the ministers who had to run different ministerial sessions or engagement groups. He was very clear that this will not be just an ornamental presidency. It will lead to good for the world, Goyal said.

On being asked about a meeting held in August where China and Russia opposed a paragraph on the war in Ukraine, the minister began by saying, Modi hai toh mumkin hai.

We had the confidence that well pull it off due to PM Modis personal charisma, and tall leadership. Today, he is the longest-serving leader in senior positions amongst all the world leaders and the respect he has earned as a leader and for our country is immense. By and large, we were always very confident that there would be significant outcomes during the ministerial meetings.

He added, I think most people did have their doubts until the very end. But to pull it off on day one, we have truly crossed every expectation that anybody had. But I must say that with Prime Minister Modi, we all felt kuch toh chamatkaar karenge.

On being asked if India is open for business for Chinese investors, the Commerce Minister said, India is open for business for all investors across the world. We are fair to all countries. We would only like to make sure that we get reciprocal access, reciprocal benefits. We like to make sure that strategically, Indias interests are not compromised. And therefore, India is a little cautious when it comes to investments from all our land-bordering countries, whether its China or any other land-bordering country, we are looking at a little more cautious, calibrated approach.

On the banning of hundreds of Chinese apps since 2021, Piyush Goyal said, It was not a trade issue and neither was the trade department or commerce ministry involved in that decision. It was a security concern which was addressed by the concerned departments.

Speaking about the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), he said, Well, when I assessed the RCEP discussions, I realised that originally, India was never supposed to be a part of RCEP. It was amongst the ASEAN region, China, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and Korea. To date, I have not been able to figure out why India got into the whole RCEP negotiations. Of course, when I dug into the files, when I took charge of this ministry in June of 2019, I had very little time between June and October because November was the final meeting where the call had to be taken and we were signing up. I started digging into the files. I started having very extensive stakeholder consultations across the country. I remember, I had over 200 meetings with different sectors. Two things came out very starkly. Ever since the UPA came into power in 2004, I dont know what happened. What were those secret understandings? What were those MoUs about which we still dont know much? Then suddenly the imports from China started shooting up. That surge is unbelievable.

On being asked about why India has not been able to reduce dependence on Chinese imports, the minister said, over the years, weve seen so many products coming in from China. Its a long drawn process to now create enough domestic capabilities and capacity. Its a process to introduce high quality standards to make sure we get good quality products coming into India. That process is going on very significantly at a very fast pace, because of which I think weve been able to promote domestic investments, promote domestic manufacturing. Otherwise, the same import figure, if I was to juxtapose what was happening prior to 2014, would have been far, far higher.

Talking about former US President Donald Trump, Piyush Goyal said, Two things. One, he has been President in the past and we have worked with him. Im sure as more dialogue happens and more understanding happens, he will realise we are really not the highest tariff country in the world. In many ways, India has opened up its business through promoting bilateral agreements, also by ensuring that high technology products get free flow and lower tariffs. There are certain areas where we do have tariffs, but so has the United States. Peanut butter in America has exorbitant tariffs. Every country protects certain very critical, sensitive, politically sensitive areas through tariffs or through other measures and I think all this needs is more dialogue and debate and discussion and a deeper understanding which will resolve this matter.
Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police Thursday resumed the operation against the terrorists in the Kokernag area of the Anantnag district.

Security forces encircled two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists holed up in a building in Jammu and Kashmirs Anantnag where three security officers were killed in an encounter a day earlier, said police.

Our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle two LeT terrorists, said Jammu and Kashmir Police.

According to media reports, citing army sources, these terrorists have been entering the Valley via Nepal and their objective is to promote terror.

The encounter has already claimed the lives of three army personnel, including a Colonel commanding a battalion, a Major and a Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police while one soldier was missing.

Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Major Ashish Dhonack, and Deputy Superintendent Humayun Bhat were critically injured in the gunfight with terrorists that ensued in the Garol area of Anantnag district in the morning hours of Wednesday.

The officers succumbed to their injuries during the treatment, officials said, adding a jawan also died. The whereabouts of another soldier were not immediately known and it is feared he might have been seriously wounded.

DGP Dilbag Singh condoled the death of the braveheart officers of the police and army. In a message, he said every loss of life is unfortunate and asserted that the perpetrators of the crime would be brought to justice soon.

He extended his sympathies to the bereaved families.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed the Opposition unity bloc I.N.D.I.A and said the political parties that are part of it have a resolution to end Sanatan culture.

The remarks were made by PM Modi at a rally in Madhya Pradesh and was his first public reaction following the controversy that sparked after DMK leader and Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin compared Sanatan Dharma with dengue, malaria.

Previously, the Prime Minister had urged his ministers to deliver a proper response to this remark.

This INDI alliance doesnt have a leaderthey have also decided on a hidden agenda to attack Indias culture. The INDI alliance has come with a resolution to end Sanatan culture, PM Modi said.

#WATCH | On opposition bloc INDIA, PM Modi says, This INDI alliance doesnt have a leaderthey have also decided on a hidden agenda to attack Indias culture. The INDI alliance has come with a resolution to end Sanatan culture pic.twitter.com/rlO7nuB7vW  ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2023

Sanatanis, people who love our country, be alert

Intensifying his attack on the Opposition unity bloc, PM Modi said that the call for the eradication of Sanatan Dharma has crossed a line and should not go unchallenged.

The people of this I.N.D.I alliance want to erase that Sanatan Dharma which gave inspiration to Swami Vivekananda and Lokmanya Tilak Today, they have openly started targeting Sanatan, tomorrow they will increase the attacks on us. All Sanatanis across the country and the people who love our country will have to be alert. We will have to stop such people.

#WATCH | Bina, Madhya Pradesh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says The people of this INDIA alliance want to erase that Sanatana Dharma which gave inspiration to Swami Vivekananda and Lokmanya TilakThis INDIA alliance wants to destroy Sanatana Dharma. Today they have openly pic.twitter.com/wc0C2hBxtS  ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2023

Earlier this month, Udhayanidhi, son of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin likened Sanatan Dharma to malaria and dengue, and said that its should be "eradicated".

A political row erupted after junior Stalin's remark, with the BJP hitting out at I.N.D.I.A , a group of 28 opposition parties.

A few days after Udhayanidhi's remark, DMK Lok Sabha MP and former Union minister A Raja has likened Sanatan Dharma to diseases like leprosy and HIV.

With inputs from agencies
On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi elaborated on the controversy surrounding the Sanatan Dharma comment made by Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin of Tamil Nadu. In his speech to a sizable crowd in Bina, Madhya Pradesh, Prime Minister Modi claimed that the INDIA alliance has a hidden agenda to undermine and eradicate Sanatana Dharma culture.

PM Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the opposition coalition, the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), referring to it as a INDI alliance that does not have a leader.

At a time when Bharat is emerging as a world leader at global forums, some parties are trying to divide the country and its people. These people came together to form an INDI alliance. Some people are calling it a ghamndiya (arrogant) alliance. They dont have a leader yet and there is a lot of suspense on who would lead them going into the Lok Sabha elections next year. They are working with a hidden agenda, which is to attack Indias culture, PM Modi said.

The Opposition INDIA bloc allegedly adopted a resolution to end the Sanatana culture in the nation during its third meeting, PM Modi alleged.

This INDI-Alliance adopted a resolution to end our Sanatana culture. They are bent on destroying the ideologies, cultures and traditions that have kept the country and our people together for centuries, the prime minister said.

A few days prior to PM Modis criticism of the opposition, Udhayanidhi Stalin, the son of Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin, had declared that Sanatana Dharma is incompatible with the idea of social justice and should be eliminated.

Sanatana is like malaria and dengue and so it must be eradicated and not opposed, Udhayanidhi Stalin had said.

After laying the groundwork for multiple projects totaling more than 50,700 crores, including the Petrochemical Complex at Bina Refinery and ten major industrial projects around Madhya Pradesh, PM Modi addressed the gathering.

He laid the cornerstone for 10 projects, including a Power and Renewable Energy Manufacturing Zone in the Narmadapuram district, two IT parks in Indore, a Mega Industrial Park in Ratlam, and six new industrial regions across the state.

(With agency inputs)
Nitin Gadkari LIVE Updates

We do not need to make it mandatory, says Nitin Gadkari on 6 airbags rule for cars

Stating that "we do not need to make it mandatory," Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said if manufacturers want to be in the competition, they "have to make six airbags" as people are cautious now.

Addressing the 63rd Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) annual session in the national capital, Gadkari said "People are cautious now. Whichever economic model has six airbags, people will prefer to buy that car. We do not need to make it mandatory. It is the manufacturers who have to decide".

He further said, "Everyone is making it, we do not need to make it mandatory. Those who do not want to do it, are facing problems as far as their sale is concerned. If they want to be in the competition, they have to make six airbags. If they do not want it, it is their problem."
In a veiled dig at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Wednesday cautioned against narratives that are pernicious, sinister and anti-national in character are floated periodically abroad at a time when the country was making phenomenal progress and emerging as a global destination of investment and opportunity.

Speaking at the inauguration of the renovated library of the Indian Council of World Affairs in the national capital on Wednesday, the Vice President questioned if the country, home to one-sixth of humanity could afford disturbance to be weaponised as a political power when it was making rapid strides across sectors.

Terming the countrys progress as phenomenal and unimaginable, the Vice President said, Narratives that are pernicious, sinister, and anti-national in character are floated periodically.

Some people get upset after seeing the development of India. You can go to Europe or the UK, there will always be some takers. However, the rise of this country, home to one-sixth of humanity has been phenomenal and unimaginable. It has emerged as a global destination of investment and opportunity.

Your (the research facultys) role is sufficient in neutralising such a crafted strategy meant only to taint, tarnish, demean, and decimate our Constitutional institutions. Some people get upset after seeing Indias development, Dhankhar added.

Rahul, who had taken pot shots at the Centre during his earlier visits to the UK and the United States, continued his tirade at a media breifing in Brussels during his ongoing tour of Europe, alleging a full-scale assualt on democratic institutions back home in India.

Further, voicing concern over repeated disruptions in both Houses of Parliament during the recent Monsoon Session, the Vice President, who also chairs proceedings in the Rajya Sabha, advised legislators to learn proceedings of the Senate, Congress, House of Commons.

We have to examine global affairs, proceedings of the Senate, Congress, House of Commons, the VP added.

The combined Opposition was up in arms in both Houses of Parliament, demanding a debate and a statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the situation in strife-torn Manipur.

Citing the Constituent Assembly, a body tasked with drafting the Constitution, Dhankhar there used to be dialogues, debates, deliberations and discussions in the Assembly minus disruption and disturbance.

Now, when India is rising, can we afford disturbance to be weaponised as a political power? We cannot. You can pick any 20 countries. Is there slogan shouting? Do their leaders rush to the well (to protest)? Do they hold up placards (to the Chair)?

You have a big role to play. You are the most impactful ambassadors of this country. Let me tell you, we have to be on caution,You are discerning, and intelligent minds to counter it, the Vice President said, directly addressing the research faculty at the Indian Council of World Affairs.

On One Nation, One Poll, a proposal to hold all elections simultaneously, he said, One Nation, One Election is a concept. One may disagree with it, and one may oppose it tooth and nail. But to say we will not discuss it, this is not democracy.
A 24-year-old healthcare worker from Keralas Kozhikode district tested positive for the Nipah virus, taking the total number of people suffering from the disease to five.

Following the rise in cases, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan convened a meeting and asked the Kozhikode district collector to take immediate action to minimize overcrowding in public places.

All public events have been suspended until September 24 as part of preventive actions. Schools, offices and public transport on Wednesday were shut in a race to stop the spread of the rare and deadly virus, which has killed two people.

Two adults and a child were still infected in hospital, and more than 700 people were being tested for the virus, spread via contact with the bodily fluids of infected bats, pigs or people, a state health official said.

The state government on Wednesday evening said at least 706 people, including 153 health workers, were undergoing tests to check the spread of the virus. Results were awaited.

More people could be tested Isolation facilities will be provided, Pinarayi Vijayan, chief minister of Kerala, had said in a statement. He asked people to avoid public gatherings in the Kozhikode district for the next 10 days.

Two infected people have died since Aug. 30 in Keralas fourth outbreak of the virus since 2018, forcing authorities to declare containment zones in at least eight Kozhikode villages.

We are focusing on tracing contacts of infected persons early and isolating anyone with symptoms, state Health Minister Veena George told reporters.

She said the virus detected in Kerala was the same as one found earlier in Bangladesh, a strain that spreads from human to human with a high mortality rate but has a history of being less infectious.

Public movement has been restricted in parts of the state to contain the medical crisis, she said, adding that state epidemiologists were using antivirals and monoclonal antibodies to treat three people infected, including a medical worker.

The Nipah virus was first identified in 1999 during an outbreak of illness among pig farmers and others in close contact with the animals in Malaysia and Singapore.

Outbreaks are sporadic and previous infections in South Asia have occurred when people drank date palm sap contaminated with bat excreta.

The first victims native village, Maruthonkara, is situated near a 300-acre forest that is home to several bat species. During the 2018 Nipah outbreak, fruit bats from the same area tested positive for the virus.

In Keralas first Nipah outbreak, 21 of the 23 people infected died. Outbreaks in 2019 and 2021 killed two people.

Neighbouring Tamil Nadu state announced that travellers coming from Kerala would be subjected to medical tests and those with flu symptoms would be isolated.

With inputs from Reuters.
A court in Rajasthans Deeg district on Thursday sent cow vigilante Monu Manesar to judicial custody for 15 days in connection with the killing of two Muslim men from the state whose charred bodies were found in Haryanas Bhiwani district in February, officials said.

A police official, on the condition of anonymity, said during his two-day interrogation, Monu Manesar revealed that he was in touch with arrested accused Rinku Saini and the duo had spoken on the phone before and after the abduction of Nasir and Junaid, the victims.

He said Monu Manesar was involved in the crime, but whether he was the mastermind or not is still being probed.

Monu Manesar was presented before a court, which sent him to judicial custody for 15 days, Gopalgarh Station House Officer (SHO) Santosh Sharma said.

According to the police, four accused  Monu Rana, Rinku Saini, Gogi and Monu Manesar  have been arrested in the case. Twenty-six others are suspected to be involved.

Monu Manesar  booked by the Rajasthan Police for the killing of Nasir (25) and Junaid (35) and accused by some of inciting the recent violence in Haryanas Nuh  was nabbed by the Haryana Police on Tuesday.

He was handed over to the Rajasthan Police after it obtained a transit remand from a court in Nuh.

Monu Manesar  whose real name is Mohit Yadav  was then brought to Bharatpur and produced in the court, which sent him to police custody for two days.

In February, Monu Manesar was named in an FIR lodged by the Rajasthan Police after Nasir and Junaid were found dead in a burnt car in Loharu in Haryanas Bhiwani.

The men from Ghatmika village in Deeg (formerly Bharatpur) were allegedly abducted by suspected cow vigilantes, who then crossed the border into Haryana.

The Rajasthan Police last month said Monu Manesars role in hatching a conspiracy and abetting the crime was under active investigation.

Monu Manesar was also accused by some of being a trigger for the July violence in which a VHP procession was targeted by mobs in Nuh  leading to the deaths of six people in that district and neighbouring Gurugram.
The security forces on Thursday encircled two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists holed up in a building in Jammu and Kashmirs Anantnag where three security officers were killed in an encounter a day earlier, said police.

Our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle two LeT terrorists, said Jammu and Kashmir Police.

According to media reports, citing army sources, these terrorists have been entering the Valley via Nepal and their objective is to promote terror.

The encounter has already claimed the lives of three army personnel, including a Colonel commanding a battalion and a Major, and a Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police while one soldier was missing.

Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Major Ashish Dhonack, and Deputy Superintendent Humayun Bhat were critically injured in the gunfight with terrorists that ensued in the Garol area of Anantnag district in the morning hours of Wednesday.

The officers succumbed to their injuries during the treatment, officials said, adding a jawan also died. The whereabouts of another soldier was not immediately known and it is feared he might have been seriously wounded.

DGP Dilbag Singh condoled the death of the braveheart officers of police and army. In a message, he said every loss of life is unfortunate and asserted that the perpetrators of the crime would be brought to justice soon.

He extended his sympathies to the bereaved families.

With inputs from agencies
As enduring rivalries bequeaths systemic instability, such volatile tendencies turn regions into competitive hotbeds of strategic competition. The US-China meltdown shows no signs of abetting, albeit diplomatic overtures, and continues to feed optimism about signs of possible rapprochement. Tensions simmering from economic decoupling, maritime contestations and varied interpretations of world order have trapped these states into cycles of mistrust and suspicion. As systemic rivalries roll on, the regional sphere has received its brunt in Beijings neighbourhood. Beijing has a volatile neighbourhood, with maritime tensions in East Asia, territorial disputes in the South China Sea and the case of Taiwans future.

Global systemic rivalry manifests in more assertive policies and manning regional spheres. As Beijings power saturates, it also is slowly erasing the prospects of Beijings dream to bestow its values upon the current international order. To avert such an outcome, Beijing will push to maintain and secure existing power balances that define the regional power configuration in its favour. Beijings drive for alternatives in world order showcases failed US attempts to integrate China into the liberal international order. A revisionist rising power will resist the unflinching desire of the global hegemon to impose standards of values and military balances that dovetail with its strategic objective to maintain disproportionate levels of power. Washington would also be unwilling to roll back and share the power, prestige and status that a revisionist China feels it rightly deserves.

Consequentially, such an approach forces Beijing to jostle to sustain and maintain its resistance against the current liberal order. Carving out a niche defence perimetre that roughly resonates with the idea of a sphere of influence to protect its political and strategic interest is a manifestation of such reverence for alternatives. However, Beijings efforts rarely reverberate with other members of the international community. Political push-backs and issue-specific alignments are common means to challenge Beijings cast on world politics.

In the recently concluded BRICS Summit, President Xi Jinping resisted the efforts of Indo-Pacific states by criticizing the formation of small circles and exclusive blocs. Apprehensions exist about China-Russia bonhomie and their mutual membership in BRICS that may herald a post-liberal world order. Although BRICS states cashed in to dish out Western sanctions that threatened economies of the Global South in the wake of the Ukrainian crisis, the hue and cry for germination of an alternative post-Cold War order is a mere speculative and far-fetched idea.

Western structural dependencies are so inextricably linked that smaller states entangled in institutional and governance frameworks would find it difficult to divert their preferred trade links. More so, other member states like India and Brazil were doubtful and resisted buying the Chinese offers. Making amends to the Chinese anti-Western proposition, these states vouched for non-Western approach that better serve as a repertoire to address issues concerning the Global South. Further capitalising on assuming leadership for the Global South, New Delhi desires to use the framework of G20 to mainstreaming the marginalised aspirations of developing countries. President Xi absence at the recently concluded G20 Summit lowers the barriers for contending leadership claims to voice Global South concerns. And this was more apparent with Modi extending G20 membership to the African Union.

Dispelling Chinese revisionism from institutional governance models also translated into regional pushbacks. Regions have been the experimental field for Beijing to introduce prototypes featuring alternative modes of governance that decry conditionalities and privileges extending monetary assistance to curry favour for political leverage. India and US were critical in their strategic pushback against Beijing in South Asia. To maintain the vitality of its economic growth and project power in IOR, Beijing made substantial economic handouts to South Asian states to influence their political choices to serve Beijings defence needs.

Basing facilities, dual-use infrastructural modules and selling arms to key South Asia countries are the ways in which Beijing maintained the plausibility to secure a defence arc that could curtail Indias hegemony and challenge the balance of power in the region. Akin to Beijings tactics, both New Delhi and Washington made inroads in South Asia to engage smaller states in their strategic template.

Nepals MCC and Dhakas recent tilt towards Washington paved the way for a much more sustainable and long-term relationship. Colombos subdued economic growth and Beijings reluctance to offer financial help propelled Washington via IMF to intervene by deploying monetary assistance. While Kabul and Islamabad featured less on Washingtons strategic vision, the long-term goal to wean off small states dependencies away from Beijing impelled US to engineer non-traditional security options to foster interactions and manage collaborations.

Recently, Chinese assertiveness, besides South Asia has been on exponential rise in the South China Sea. More so, when it continues to launch cartographic aggression by proclaiming territorial dispute over Arunachal Pradesh and 9 dash line claims in the South China Sea as part of its official territory. Since the early years of this decade, Chinas artificial activity to lay claims to maritime features illegally has been ratcheting. To man these territorial waters, China is involved in ensuring regular patrols and enforcing sovereignty through the Chinese militia and its navy. Recently in early August, Beijing used water canon against a Philippines supply ship. It was also been involved in maritime skirmishes with other states over claims to EEZ in the region. China also discarded the ruling of Hague in 2016 over the arbitration issue on the Philippines Scarborough Shoal which Beijing occupied illegally. Chinas attempt to revise and discard major institutions that govern the international order showcases its active revisionism to overthrow the extant order.

However, efforts to resist and counter Beijings moves have also rekindled proportionately. Most states suffering from Beijings assertiveness preferred to exchange vows in favour of rules-based international order. Recently US, Australia, Japan held a military drill off the coast of the Philippines to secure countervailing support for rule of law and peace in the region. Further, states in the region have also signalled foreign armaments sales like Indias potential Brahmos missile sale to Vietnam to correct the imbalance of power and induce fear of denial in Chinese military planners.

Countries like US and Australia with other rising powers like India and Japan are now using a concerted strategy to forfeit Beijings adventurism. Infrastructural aids and developmental assistance coupled with new economic governance mechanisms like IPEF aim to create alternatives and decouple small states from Beijings lure. Military means to frustrate China through AUKUS and a renewed focus on Indo-Pacific along with QUAD are footsteps to checkmate Beijings transgression that eventually exacerbates problems in the already fragile international order.

Chinas regional posture has become more aggressive as global US outreach against Beijings intentions has gained traction. Unable to match US power at the global level, Beijing is concentrating its power by localising it in its periphery. While regional order is vacillating by push and pulls of the contending great powers, the regional players have preferred to support US-led efforts to protect their sovereignty and territorial integrity. Beijings failure to shape an alternative global order through major groupings and muscle power has largely been futile. However, as the space for its activity is shrinking, the collapse of trust and regional pushback could herald geopolitical development impelling Beijing to fall back on wars as a political instrument to shape and shove the global balances.

The author is a PhD candidate at the Centre for International Politics, Organisation and Disarmament, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, and is associated with the Asia Society Policy Institute, New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News,

India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
In its Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) report for 2023, the University of Chicagos Energy Policy Institute has said that air pollution cuts short the lives of people of Delhi by about 11.9 years. An earlier report by the university had said that the lives of residents of northern India could be shortened by over nine years if the 2019 air pollution levels continued. Some progress indeed!

More polluted than Delhis air is the discourse on the environment, for it is all about an incestuous clique agreeing with each other and thrusting their dogmas on the government and society. The cliques diktats must be obeyed in letter and spirit. Period. Any dithering on the part of the authorities or people evokes righteous indignation.

For years, we were lectured by the self-appointed guardians of the Earth that vehicular emission was the root cause of dirty air in the national capital. This is contrary to empirical evidence. The real reasons are dust and biomass burning in Delhi-NCR. It is also evident from the fact that during rains, the Delhi AQI drops sharply, despite congestion in various parts of the city caused by waterlogging.

It is not that a non-vehicular source of pollution was never suspected or detected. In July 2021, for instance, a study by IIT Kanpurs Prof Sachchida Nand Tripathi found that in summers 52 per cent of Delhis PM 2.5 concentration was because of dust. Yet, the entire debate about the cause of air pollution revolved around vehicles, especially cars. This was the reason that the Delhi Government had earlier opted for the odd-even scheme to check it.

In March this year, a most authoritative study on the subject pointed out that in winter the real reason for air pollution is something else: biomass burning. Peddlers of the vehicles-pollute-Delhi narrative were conspicuous by their silence on the matter.

According to the US Energy Information Administration, Biomass is renewable organic material that comes from plants and animals. It includes wood and wood processing wastes, agricultural crops and waste materials, biogenic materials in municipal solid waste, and animal manure and human sewage.

The study, led by the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, had contributions from 19 scholars and experts from the Physical Research Laboratory, IIT Delhi, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Paul Scherrer Institut (PSI), Switzerland, and University Helsinki, Finland. Researchers Suneeti Mishra and Tripathi, both from the Department of Civil Engineering, IIT Kanpur, co-authored the paper.

In the study, published in the prestigious Nature Geoscience journal, the scholars observe[d] intense and frequent nocturnal particle growth events during haze development in Delhi from measurements of aerosols and gases during January-February at the Indian Institute of Technology in Delhi We estimate that this process is responsible for 70 per cent of the total particle-number concentration during haze.

It went on to say that the condensation of primary organic vapours from biomass burning is the leading cause of the observed growth. It further said, As uncontrolled biomass burning for residential heating and cooking is rife in the Indo-Gangetic plain, we expect this growth mechanism to be a source of ultrafine particles, affecting the health of 5 per cent of the worlds population and impacting the regional climate.

In other words, the health of almost 40 crore people is adversely affected by biomass burning.

No one disputes that the quality of air is extremely poor in not just the national capital but also in the entire northern India. It is the diagnosis that is not just wrong but also dangerously misleading. Worse, there has been a persistent endeavor on the part of doctrinaire environmentalists to distract attention from the real cause and heap the entire blame on vehicular emissions.

Nothing could be farther from the truth. According to the latest National Family Health Survey-5, just about 8 per cent of Indian households own cars. In Delhi, one in five households owns a car. In comparison, in Helsinki, the third cleanest city in the world, there are more than two cars for every individual. In general, Western nations have more cars per household than in India, and yet the air there is much cleaner than in our country.

At the heart of the problem of air pollution in India is not automobile density (which is low anyway) but illegal urbanisation. These are the results of rampant encroachments, incompetence, corruption, and unregulated and dangerous construction. The consequences are deplorable: solid waste dumping, contamination and death of water bodies, drying of aquifers, and long is the list of woes. Unsurprisingly, many areas become dust bowlsand are shrouded in a haze caused by biomass burning.

But nobody is interested in addressing these issues, the real issues. Politicians are busy selling freebies to voters; environmentalists happy with their fancy climate change slogans. Meanwhile millions of people suffer grievously.

The author is a freelance journalist. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News,

India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
The world has acknowledged Indias leadership as the 18th G20 summit concluded in Delhi. To achieve a unanimous consensus on all 83 points of the outcome document was astute diplomacy which also displayed Indias global standing and acceptance. The document covered subjects which had faced roadblocks in the last summit in Bali, Indonesia, including the Ukraine conflict. Both groups, G7 and Russia-China had to stand down from their lofty ideals and accept Indias neutrality on the conflict. Ukraine was displeased but that was not of major concern. The inclusion of Indias theme, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, in the document, overcoming Chinese objections is another milestone.

As per the Indian Sherpa, Amitabh Kant, the breakthrough was achieved post 200 hours of non-stop negotiations, 300 bilateral meetings and 15 drafts. The document covered every subject, from Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE), climate change, trade, reforming multilateral development banks and an increased voice to the developing world.

Equally important was the consensus on terrorism and support for FATF. Support for FATF and condemnation of terrorism has been Indias demand in all forums. With China backing it, evidently, it has left Pakistan in the dumps. India took the assistance of Brazil, South Africa and Indonesia to push the document through. These countries, future and past presidents of the G20 coordinate the functioning of the organisation.

The inclusion of the African Union (AU) into the G20 marks the end of G20 and the commencement of G21. A touching moment for all was how the AU president was escorted, received by the prime minister and given his seat on the high table. It gave the continent a feeling of hope as they would have a voice on a major global platform. It also enhanced Indias reputation and standing on the continent.

China, as usual, desperate for the limelight, stated that it was the first country to support the entry of the AU into the G20. The Global Times, in a commentary mentioned, Mao Ning, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated, China is the first country that explicitly expressed its support for the African Unions membership in the G20, adding, China supports the AU in playing a bigger role in global governance.

The summit also had Biden promising increased investment, in collaboration with the EU, in the Lobito corridor in Africa which connects the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia to the Lobito port in Angola. India is already investing in Africa in terms of development, education and other fields. Nigeria gained $14 billion in investment including $1 billion for defence procurements from India just before the commencement of the summit. The global intent is to challenge the Chinese BRI which remains a debt trap.

The announcement of the IMEE EC (India-Middle East- Europe Economic Corridor) on the sidelines of the G20 summit is a breakthrough with global ramifications. The corridor would link South Asia to Europe through Israel and Saudi Arabia. As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated, Israel will be a central junction in this economic corridor. Our railways and seaports will open a new gateway from India, through the Middle East to Europe, and also back. Israels Haifa port, procured by Adani in Feb this year, outbidding the Chinese, would be the gateway to Europe. Had the port gone to China, the project could have faced roadblocks.

The IMEE EC challenges the Chinese BRI (Belt Road Initiative), which would lose relevance as also bypasses Pakistan, which blocked the CPEC to India. With coordination and investments from Saudi Arabia, UAE, EU and India, the project is bound to change global alignments and enhance Indias role in the Middle East.

The prime minister rightly termed it as a beacon of cooperation and innovation that charts a journey of shared aspirations and dreams. The project will also include an electricity cable and a hydrogen pipeline to promote clean energy trade. The project will have two distinct corridors, one eastern linking India to the Arabian Gulf (including Israel) and a northern, one linking Arabian Gulf to Europe. A meeting of all stakeholders within the next two months will lay down an action plan and timetables. Unless the project adheres to timelines, it would lose relevance.

The Indian conduct made the G20 once again relevant to the globe. A statement released after a meeting involving India, Brazil, South Africa and the US read, As the G20s current and the next three presidencies, we will build on the historic progress of Indias G20 presidency to address global challenges. In this spirit, together with the world bank president, we welcome the G20s commitment to build a better, bigger and more effective multilateral development banks. Incidentally, China has objected to the US conducting the 2026 G20 summit.

India through its untiring efforts, holding over 200 preliminary meetings, spread over 60 cities, involved the country as a whole in its conduct. Shashi Tharoor stated, One of the things that was remarkable about the governments conduct of the presidency was that they did something no previous G20 presidency had done. They made it a nationwide event.

The Russian delegation stated, The G20 has ended on a very positive note. All other world leaders had similar praise for the agenda and choreographed conduct. India raised the G20 to levels few nations would be able to meet.

In bilateral meetings, India scored and pushed through its agenda, whether it was Biden, Rishi Sunak or even Justin Trudeau who was given a slap on the wrist for providing space to the Khalistan movement. In a press conference, Justin was left to defend his stance by mentioning freedom of speech and right to peaceful protest, which was fake as he acted with force against the truckers peaceful protests. His double talk impressed no one.

Jealousy of Indias success was evident in Pakistan. Abdul Basit, its former High Commissioner to India tweeted in frustration, Last year it was Indonesia, this year India, next year will be Brazil and so on. Whats so special about India hosting the G20 summit? More hype than substance. Even the G20 would lose its relevance in years ahead. Proposed corridors linking India to the Gulf and Europe will remain pipe dreams. The Dawn, Pakistans prominent newspaper, posted a photograph of global leaders walking barefoot on wet ground at the Rajpath under the heading, Wet feet dampen G20 leaders Gandhi tribute in India. The fact that Bangladesh was present, while it was ignored impacts the countrys psyche.

The weekend was Indias time to shine, outdo it own ambitions and lay down a yardstick few would be able to achieve. And it did so in style. The Chairperson of the African Union, Azali Assoumani, summed up the G20 when he said, India is the 5th superpower in the world.

The author is a former Indian Army officer, strategic analyst and columnist. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News,

India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
The Opposition bloc I.N.D.I.A has decided to boycott certain TV news anchors who they deem biased and think communalise news debates.

The Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (I.N.D.I.A) will soon come up with a list whose debates and shows will be boycotted by the opposition parties.

The decision was taken during the first meeting of the I.N.D.I.A Coordination Committee on Wednesday, where it authorised the Sub-Group on Media will draw up the names of anchors.

The coordination committee authorised the sub-group on media to decide upon the names of the anchors on whose shows none of the INDIA parties will send their representatives, Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal said.

During the meeting, some members of the bloc pressed for drastic measures to avoid engaging with biased TV networks, according to a report by Times of India.

The first meeting of I.N.D.I.A Coordination Committee was held at the residence of Nationalist Congress Party Chief Sharad Pawar. The group also announced their first joint public meeting in the poll-bound state of Madhya Pradesh next month.

Oppositions war against anchors

The Opposition, especially Congress, has been waging a war against news anchors.

During Congress leader Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Yatra, the party accused a section of the media of not putting enough spotlight on the campaign.

The people are supporting the Yatra and so is the social media. But mainstream media continues to boycott it, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has said.

It is my allegation that editors have boycotted the yatra. Lakhs are joining the campaign. Will you not show such a huge campaign? he added.

In 2019, similarly, the party boycotted television debates for a month.

The Congress has decided to not send spokespersons on television debates for a month. All media channels/editors are requested to not place Congress representatives on their shows, senior party leader Randeep Surjewala had posted at the time.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Thursday issued a three-line whip to all party MPs of the Lok Sabha asking them to be present during the special session of Parliament from 18 to 22 September.

In the whip, BJP said the Lok Sabha MPs should be present in the house during the speacial parliament session to discuss very important legislative business and support the governments stand.

What does BJP whip reads?

All BJP members in Lok Sabha are hereby informed that some very important Legislative Business will be taken up for discussion and passing in the Lok Sabha from Monday, the 18th September to Friday, the 22nd September 2023. All members of BJP in Lok Sabha are therefore requested to be positively present in the House throughout on all the five days i.e. from Monday, the 18th September to Friday the 22nd September 2023 and support the Governments stand, the whip read.

The government has also called for a meeting of the floor leaders of all political parties on 17 September, a day ahead of the five-day special parliament session.

Agenda for Parliaments special session

On Wednesday, the government listed a special discussion on Parliaments journey of 75 years starting from the Samvidhan Sabha om the first day.

The government has also listed the bill on the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other election commissioners to be taken up for consideration and passage. The bill was introduced in Rajya Sabha during the last Monsoon session.

Discussion on Parliamentary Journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha  Achievements, Experiences, Memories and Learnings' will be held on 18 September besides other formal business like laying of papers.

The business for Lok Sabha also includes The Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023 and The Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023 that has already been passed by Rajya Sabha on 3 August, 2023.

Also, The Post Office Bill, 2023 has been listed in the Lok Sabha business. The bill was introduced in Rajya Sabha on 10 August, 2023.

The list of business is tentative and more items can be added in the run to the session.

With inputs from agencies
Slamming Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his remark that Hindi unites, Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Thursday said it is absurd to claim that Hindi, spoken in just four to five states, unites the entire Indian union.

Udhayanidhi said the union minister has as usual shown his love for Hindi by commenting that only Hindi unites people and empowers regional languages.

This view is only an alternative form of a clamour for Hindi; that if it is learnt, a person can develop, the Minister said in Tamil on social media platform X. In Tamil Nadu it is Tamil, and Malayalam is the language in neighbouring Kerala. How is Hindi uniting these two states? How it is empowering? he asked.

I strongly condemn the statement of Union Home Minister Amit Shah claiming that Hindi is the uniting force of India and it is empowering other regional languages. Related Articles Amit Shah to address National Symposium on Cooperative Exports tomorrow Union Home Minister Amit Shah on three-day visit to poll-bound Madhya Pradesh Hindi is spoken only in four or five states in the Country and hence the statement of Amit Shah is totally absurd.  Udhay (@Udhaystalin) September 14, 2023

Further, he said: It is absurd to say that Hindi, spoken in four to five states, is uniting the whole of the Indian Union.

Amit Shah should stop relegating non-Hindi languages to the status of provincial languages and insulting them, Udhayanidhi said in Tamil on X and added the hashtag #StopHindiImposition.

The Union Home Minister on Thursday said that Hindi unites the diverse languages in India and it has honoured different Indian as well as global languages and dialects.

In a message on the occasion of Hindi Diwas, Shah said Hindi has never competed nor would compete with any other Indian language and that a strong country would emerge only by strengthening all its languages. The home minister expressed confidence that Hindi would become a medium to empower all the local languages.
Former defence personnel will now face a 20-year prison sentence if they teach certain foreign militaries, and the ban will be expanded to include any Australians who provide military training to nations deemed to pose a threat to national security.

The crackdown has been brought on by a number of incidents involving former military pilots who now reside in Australia and who worked for a South African flight school instructing Chinese pilotspilots who, according to the United States, are Chinese military pilots.

The Five Eyes intelligence allies of AustraliaBritain, the United States, New Zealand, and Canadawill not be subject to the new rule, according to officials.

Exemptions will also be granted if the training is authorised by the defence minister, relates to humanitarian assistance, or is necessary for United Nations obligations.

Giving military instruction or tactics to a foreign military or government bodyincluding hybrid civilian and military groups and state-owned businesseswithout the defence ministers consent will result in fines of up to 20 years in prison.

The bill, according to Australias Defence Minister Richard Marles, was partially modelled after American law and will strengthen existing criminal laws that forbid former Australian defence personnel from providing military training to a foreign government. Marles introduced the amendment to Australias parliament on Thursday.

The new law goes a step further by outlawing the delivery of such training without the ministers permission to any Australian citizen or permanent resident.

The intention was to prevent individuals with knowledge of sensitive defence information from training or working for certain foreign militaries or governments where that activity would put Australias national security at risk, he said.

An ex-pilot of the US Marine Corps who had just returned from working in China was detained in Australia last year and is now being extradited to the US on suspicion of instructing Chinese military pilots at a South African flying school. Daniel Duggan, an Australian citizen, the pilot, is still in detention and claims he did nothing wrong.

In June, the Test Flying Academy of South Africa was added to a U.S. trade blacklist for training Chinese military pilots using Western and NATO sources on the basis of national security.

The Chinese state-owned aviation and defence firm AVIC, whose flight training division collaborated with TFASA, is also listed on the blacklist.

Australian Federal Police conducted a raid on Keith Hartley, the chief operational officer of TFASA, in November. A judge was informed that Hartley, a former British military pilot, was accused of planning the flying schools instruction of Chinese military pilots. Hartley hasnt been charged and says he did nothing illegal.

Working for businesses where a foreign government owns 50% or more of the stock or where the directors are expected to behave in accordance with the wishes of the foreign government is also prohibited under the new rule.

(With agency inputs)
In a significant move, China has unveiled a comprehensive plan to deepen integration between its coastal province of Fujian and Taiwan, a self-governing island nation, CNN reported.

The announcement comes alongside a display of military strength as Chinese warships encircled Taiwan.

The directive, jointly issued by the Chinese Communist Partys Central Committee and the State Council, outlines ambitious goals, including making Fujian a demonstration zone for integrated development with Taiwan and the first home for Taiwanese residents and businesses looking to establish themselves in China, CNN reported.

This directive is being hailed as a potential blueprint for Taiwans future development by Chinese experts quoted in state media. However, its release comes at a critical juncture in cross-strait relations, with Taiwan preparing for its upcoming presidential election in January.

China continues to exert military pressure on Taiwan, despite the island being a vibrant democracy with a population of 24 million people that Beijings ruling Communist Party claims as its territory, despite never having controlled it.

In the days leading up to the release of Chinas integration plan, a Chinese aircraft carrier and approximately two dozen warships were observed gathering in waters near Taiwan, according to Taiwanese authorities. China has long employed a combination of incentives and threats towards Taiwan, offering business and cultural opportunities while simultaneously warning of the possibility of military invasion, as reported by CNN.

Given the recent strain in cross-strait relations, it remains uncertain how receptive Taiwanese citizens and leaders will be to Chinas sweeping proposal. Wang Ting-yu, a Taiwanese lawmaker from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, criticized the integration plan as ridiculous in a video message, suggesting that China should focus on addressing its financial challenges rather than engaging in united front work against Taiwan.

The concept of turning Fujian into a zone for integrated development with Taiwan was first introduced in Chinas official documents in 2021 but lacked specific details. In June, when a senior Chinese leader mentioned the integration plan at a forum, Taiwans Mainland Affairs Council dismissed it as meaningless and futile, asserting that it did not align with Taiwans public expectations, according to CNN.

In the newly released directive, Beijing commits to improving the business environment for Taiwanese companies operating in Fujian, deepening industrial and capital cooperation, and encouraging Taiwanese firms to list on Chinese stock exchanges. Additionally, Taiwanese companies will be allowed to invest in and establish radio and television production companies in Fujian as part of a pilot programme.

The directive also aims to attract Taiwanese workers and families to settle in Fujian by enhancing social welfare programs, making it easier for Taiwanese individuals to live and work in the province, including property ownership. It promises equal treatment for Taiwanese students, allowing them to enrol in public schools.

Chinese observers view this document as outlining Taiwans future development, with integration into Fujian expected to provide broader economic prospects for the island. Fujian, a province with 40 million people located on the western side of the Taiwan Strait, shares geographical and cultural ties with Taiwan. Many Taiwanese are descendants of Fujian immigrants who brought their dialect, customs, and religion, contributing to Taiwans traditional Han culture.

Chinas ruling Communist Party has consistently cited the geographic, historical, and cultural proximity between Fujian and Taiwan as a basis for advocating closer economic and social integration, ultimately leading to unification with the island. Special attention is given to Taiwans outlying islands of Kinmen and Matsu, which have historically had strong ties with the mainland due to their proximity to Fujian, CNN reported.

In Tuesdays directive, Beijing commits to accelerating integration between Xiamen and Kinmen, exploring infrastructure cooperation that would allow the transport of electricity and gas from Xiamen to Kinmen and connecting the two cities with a bridge. Kinmen residents will receive similar treatment to local residents in Xiamen.

Similar integration measures are outlined for Fuzhou and Matsu. For some residents of Kinmen, these plans for greater connectivity may be appealing. This year, a cross-party alliance of eight local councillors in Kinmen proposed building a bridge to Xiamen to enhance economic ties. This proposal is part of a broader plan to demilitarize Kinmen and turn it into a peace island, positioning it as a setting for talks between Beijing and Taipei aimed at de-escalating tensions.

As China moves forward with its integration plan for Fujian and Taiwan, the region remains a focal point for geopolitical tensions, with implications for the future of cross-strait relations and regional stability, CNN reported.
Three individuals with intimate knowledge of the situation claim that Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu abruptly withdrew from a meeting with Vietnamese defence officials last week amid concerns over his more than two-week disappearance from the public eye.

On September 7-8, Li, 65, was scheduled to attend a yearly conference on defence cooperation that Vietnam was hosting near its border with China. However, the event was postponed when Beijing informed Hanoi days beforehand that the minister had a health condition, according to two Vietnamese officials.

Defence and foreign ministries of China as well as the State Council Information Office did not immediately react to a request for comment about the Vietnam event.

The sudden cancellation of Lis trip comes after Chinas abrupt replacement of Foreign Minister Qin Gang in July following a protracted period of secrecy and a recent reorganisation of the leadership of the Peoples Liberation Armys elite Rocket Force, actions that have sparked concerns about the Chinese leaderships decision-making.

Because of his proximity to President Xi Jinping, Qin rose swiftly through the ranks of the Communist Party, making his dismissal after only seven months even more shocking. Qins disappearance from the public eye was initially attributed to health issues, according to Chinese officials.

Li was chosen for the position in March. Diplomats and other observers are keeping a careful eye on him since, like Qin, he is one of Chinas five State Councillors, a cabinet position that ranks higher than a regular minister.

Lis prolonged absence from public view has drawn some comment. US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel posted on X, formerly Twitter, on Sept. 8: First, Foreign Minister Qin Gang goes missing, then the Rocket Force commanders go missing, and now Defense Minister Li Shangfu hasnt been seen in public for two weeks. Whos going to win this unemployment race? Chinas youth or Xis cabinet?

Asked about Emanuels post this week, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman told reporters she was not aware of the situation.

On August 29, Li was last seen in Beijing while giving a keynote speech at a security meeting involving African countries. Prior to it, he visited Russia and Belarus and held important discussions there.

The Chinese defence minister does not have combatant command authority, but is primarily in charge of defence diplomacy. Compared to the foreign minister, who routinely appears in official media, he has a lower public profile.

Lis disappearance, following so shortly after Qin, speaks to how mysterious Chinese elite politics can be to the outside world, said Alfred Wu, associate professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy in Singapore.

China under Xi simply does not feel a need to explain itself to the world.

For purchasing weapons from Rosoboronexport, Russias largest arms dealer, Li was subject to US sanctions in 2018.

Chinese officials have often stated that they want the sanctions lifted in order to improve communication between the forces of the two countries. During a defence symposium in Singapore in June, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin made an effort to speak with Li but was only successful in exchanging a handshake.

Li was appointed deputy commander of the militarys then-new Strategic Support Force in 2016, an elite group tasked with speeding the development of weapons for cyber and space warfare. Then, from 2017 until he was appointed defence minister, he oversaw the militarys procurement division.

In a rare announcement in July, the agency requested feedback from the public as it looked to clean-up its bidding procedure.

(With agency inputs)
Egypts only contender for the presidential election next year, Ahmed al-Tantawi, has criticised security forces harassment of his campaign workers and supporters.

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is generally likely to seek for re-election. The former army leader was elected in 2014, a year after he led the military removal of elected Islamist president Mohamed Morsi.

Tantawi, the first officially announced contender for the next election, resorted to social media to accuse security personnel of targeting his campaign staff and supporters.

In recent days the pace and severity of the illegal and immoral actions undertaken by the security forces against my campaign have intensified, Tantawi wrote on X, formerly Twitter, on Wednesday.

Recently, they arrested, detained and disappeared many of my supporters, and six of them were remanded in custody by the emergency justice system on typical charges, he alleged.

On Tuesday, the Egyptian Front for Human Rights said emergency courts had extended the detention of a Tantawi supporter.

Detained since August 30, Amr Ali Atiya was accused of terrorism and spreading false information, as were two members of Tantawis campaign who have been held since September 4, EFHR said.

On Wednesday night, the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights said it was withdrawing from a national dialogue, launched with great fanfare months ago, after the arrest of one of its participants, Mohammed Zahran.

Sisi won the presidency with nearly 97 per cent of the vote in 2014 and was re-elected in March 2018 by a similar margin, his only official electoral opponent an ardent political supporter.

Analysts universally expect Sisi to announce his candidacy for next years election, though he has not yet done so.

The 12-party Civil Democratic Movement, one of the few opposition organisations left, warned on Monday that delaying a political change in Egypt will lead it to the brink of an explosion.

Late last month, supporters of opposition activist Hisham Kassem said he had begun a hunger strike after the opening of his trial, which they denounced as political.

Kassems Free Current coalition, formed in June by opposition parties, advocates economic liberalisation and calls for an end to the armys stranglehold on the Egyptian economy.
The Indian Embassy in Tripoli has evacuated four Indians who were stuck in Libya.

The four Indians, who are from Punjab and Haryana, were escorted out of the country on Thursday by an embassy counsellor.

Four stranded Indians from Punjab and Haryana being seen off by Embassys local representative Mrs Tabassum Mansoor at Benina Airport on September 14, the Indian Embassy in Tunisia and Libya wrote on X formerly Twitter on Thursday.

According to CNN, catastrophic floods that wreaked havoc across Libya has claimed the lives of more than 6000 people.

According to Saadeddin Abdul Wakil, the Unity Government in Tripolis undersecretary of health, the dead toll was updated on Wednesday AM local time.

Hospitals that are still closed despite the urgent need to treat disaster survivors have overflowing mortuaries, according to staff. According to the emigration ministry of Egypt, 87 Egyptians who died in Libya were interred by the government.

Authorities worry that 10,000 more people are still missing, either carried away by the water or buried beneath the ruins of the city, which formerly held more than 100,000 residents.

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in Libya estimates that over 30,000 people have been displaced as a result of the flooding in Derna. According to CNN, some of the damaged communities are unreachable to humanitarian agencies due to the substantial infrastructure damage in the area.

Only two of Dernas seven entrances are now open.

In order to uphold Islamic customs that the deceased should be buried within three days, authorities are searching through mounds of debris for survivors and bodies.

The destruction caused by Storm Daniel has made it far more challenging for rescuers to clear the roads and debris to look for survivors. Communication breakdowns caused by the storm complicated rescue operations and caused anxiety among relatives waiting for news of missing loved ones who live outside of Libya.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday expressed his condolences for those killed in the devastating floods in Libya.

Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to the heavy floods in Libya. Our sympathies are with the families of the victims and with all those affected by the calamity. Express our solidarity with the people of Libya in this difficult time, posted Jaishankar on X.

Tibetan spiritual leader the 14th Dalai Lama has also prayed for the families who have lost their lives in the floods in Libya.

I pray for those brothers and sisters who have lost their lives and offer my heartfelt condolences to their families, as well as to others affected by this catastrophe, the Dalai Lama said.

The Tibetan spiritual leader further said he is aware that the Libyan authorities and the international community through several international organisations are offering support to the rescue efforts and providing relief to the affected people.

Such a show of international concern and assistance will go a long way towards mitigating the effects of this calamity, he said.

He further said, As a mark of my solidarity with the people of Libya, the Gaden Phodrang Foundation of the Dalai Lama, is making a donation towards the relief and rescue efforts.

(With agency inputs)
The success of the summit makes Prime Minister Narendra Modi the clear winner in this season of summitry with Beijing, according to British economist Jim ONeill, who is famous for coining the term BRICS. The G20 is currently the only body that can provide solutions to global problems, according to Project Syndicate.

ONeill noted in his article for Project Syndicate that neither the BRICS nor the G7 have the authority nor the capability to address global issues.

The G20 is the only organisation with the authority and breadth to provide truly global answers to global challenges, he continued, and the joint declaration that resulted from the summit that took place in New Delhi last week provided further evidence of this.

Despite obvious challenges  such as the considerable differences in how member states operate  they managed to reassert the G20s relevance after a lengthy period in which its role had been called into question, he added.

Alternative groupings such as the G7 and the new expanded BRICS look like sideshows in comparison, O Neill stated.

He also applauded the role of India and the US in pushing through the final communique.

The New Delhi Declaration could be the first step in a stronger concerted effort to address global issues like climate change, the need for a revamped World Bank, infectious disease control, economic stability, the war in Ukraine, and other matters. Though this agenda was agreed in the absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Russian and Chinese representatives who did attend would not have signed on to anything without having cleared it with their respective governments, he stated in Project Syndicate.

The article went on to say that the significance of the most recent BRICS summit was diminished by the Chinese Presidents absence from the G20.

As things stand, PM Modi is the undisputed victor of this summitry season thanks to the success of the G20 summit. He said in the article, Perceptions count, and right now he seems more like a visionary statesman than Xi does.

ONeill added that the G20 made a slight but significant advancement when the African Union joined, transforming it into the G21.

This development grants PM Modi a resounding diplomatic triumph, enhancing his standing as a defender of the Global South. It also emphasises the BRICS own expansion, which includes Egypt and Ethiopia, as being haphazard.

The author also differed on the perception that G7 is still a highly effective body compared to the G20, as evidenced by the solidarity it has shown on issues like Russias war in Ukraine.

The G20 communiques language on the war, in his opinion, was strong enough to send a clear message to anyone else who would want to transgress internationally recognised borders, even though it did not reach the degree that Ukraines leaders would have preferred.

Additionally, it tells President Putin that he shouldnt count on even token support from some of his alleged BRICS allies. Of course, the declaration does not prevent Western nations or individual leaders from strongly denouncing the war, according to ONeill.

The author went on to say that NATO, not the G7, is the group whose voice genuinely matters when it comes to issues like the global economy, climate change, and Ukraine.

As much as G7 leaders would like to think that they are still a major influence in global affairs, the reality suggests otherwise. The big takeaway from the New Delhi summit is that you cannot possibly deal with big global challenges unless you include the major emerging powers, he added.

According to the authors article at Project Syndicate, regarding the argument that the G20 is too big to be effective, I observed that if eurozone member states really wanted to demonstrate their belief in the permanence of their joint project, they would send just one delegate to international gatherings like the G20, rather than maintaining their individual representatives.

That reduced the size of the organisation and established a strong precedent. A global-governance organisation that is truly suited for purpose would result if other blocs, including the BRICS, did the same, he noted.

(With agency inputs)
With all eyes on its disputed judicial makeover, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus administration has taken unprecedented moves towards consolidating Israels authority over the West Bank  maybe indefinitely.

In his coalition agreement with Netanyahu, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a leader of the settlement movement, received unprecedented powers over the occupied area. Smotrich moved quickly to approve thousands of additional settlement dwellings, legalise previously illegal wildcat outposts, and make it more difficult for Palestinians to build homes and travel.

According to critics, his appointment as the first government minister to oversee civilian life in the West Bank amounts to an admission that Israels 56-year military occupation is not transitory but permanent.

If Smotrich keeps this position for four years we will be at a point of no return, said Ilan Paz, former head of Israels Civil Administration, a military body overseeing civilian affairs in the West Bank.

In order to create his ruling coalition despite facing a corruption investigation, Netanyahu made broad concessions to pro-settler members like Smotrich last year. The coalition agreement established a new Israeli settlement agency under the Defence Ministry, overseen by Smotrich, to regulate Jewish and Palestinian building in the 60 per cent of the West Bank under Israeli control.

Its a sort of revolution, transferring powers from the military, with its legal obligation to consider the well-being of occupied people, to those only committed to Israeli interests, said human rights lawyer Michael Sfard.

Smotrich has said he seeks to double the settler population, build up roads and neighborhoods and erase any remaining differences between life for Israelis in the West Bank and within Israel proper. Along the way, he hopes to destroy any Palestinian hopes of independence.

As finance minister, Smotrich can funnel taxpayer funds to West Bank infrastructure projects. Israels 2024 budget earmarks an all-time high of $960 million  a quarter of all Transportation Ministry funds  for a highway network better connecting Israel to the West Bank. The settlers are just over 5 per cent of Israels population.

Smotrich and his supporters see the West Bank as the biblical homeland of the Jewish people and envision a single state from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea in which Palestinians can live quietly with second-class status or leave.

We felt like the state never prioritized us because of where we lived. Smotrich is changing that, said Smotrichs spokesperson Eitan Fuld.

While Smotrichs new settler agency now handles the territorys land-use issues, COGAT, the military body that oversees the Civil Administration, retains specific responsibilities over more than 2 million Palestinians. Rights groups and others have compared the division along ethnic lines to  apartheid.

Some half-million settlers live in the West Bank, which Israel captured along with east Jerusalem and Gaza in the 1967 Mideast war. The international community overwhelmingly considers the settlements illegal.

Experts and officials say Smotrichs policies already have compounded Palestinian misery, emboldened violent settlers and unleashed turmoil within Israels military establishment. Recent settlement expansion has also strained the Netanyahu governments ties with the White House.

Smotrich declined interview requests.

Smotrich took over the Civil Administration, the only tool that Israel has to calm things down, said former West Bank military commander Gadi Shamni. The West Bank will explode.

Monthly settler attacks have surged by over 30 per cent this year, compared to 2022, U.N. figures show. The government has approved 13,000 settlement housing units and legalized 20 outposts built without authorization, said anti-settlement watchdog Peace Now, the highest levels since the group started counting in 2012.

Under Smotrich, Israeli authorities have pressed on with the demolition of Palestinian construction built without permits. COGAT acknowledged in July that it rejects over 95 per cent of Palestinian permit requests.

This years demolitions are up slightly from last year, which saw the most demolitions since at least 2006, according to Israeli rights group BTselem.

Meanwhile, Israeli authorities have scaled back efforts to evacuate unauthorized Jewish outposts, settlers say.

This is the best government weve ever had, said 32-year-old Shulamit Ben Yashar from the outpost of Asael in the arid hills south of Hebron. The outpost  home to 90 families, including Smotrichs brother Tuvia  received legal approval on Sept. 6.

Renovation fever ran high at the Asael playground as mothers gushed about their plans to swap ramshackle caravans and wheezing generators for concrete and Israels national electricity grid.

Their Palestinian neighbors  herders across dusty slopes known as Masafer Yatta  face expulsion by Israeli authorities and increased attacks by settlers. Residents in the rural area, which the Israeli military plans to seize, say Smotrich and his allies are squeezing the life from their communities.

We can barely breathe, said 38-year-old Sameer Hammdeh, whose two camels were killed last month after stumbling over trip wires he said were placed by settlers. Residents say settler provocations  damaging Palestinian cars and hurting livestock  reflect a sense of impunity instilled by the government.

Smotrich and his allies have also vowed to hasten the pace of settlement construction. In July, the government slashed six stages of approval required for settlement advancement down to two: Smotrich and a planning committee.

This makes it possible to build much more, said Zvi Yedidia Sukkot, lawmaker in Smotrichs Religious Zionist party.

The party has proposed allocating $180 million to renovate settlement housing and build new hospitals and schools. Authorities are paving two new multimillion-dollar bypass roads to whisk Israeli settlers around Palestinian towns.

One of the roads goes around Hawara, a flashpoint town where settlers burned dozens of houses and cars in a rampage early this year following the deadly shooting of two settlers. At the time, Smotrich said the town should be erased.

Our government has finally figured out that withdrawing from land is a prize for terror, said Rabbi Menachem Ben Shachar, a teacher at a newly built yeshiva seminary at Homesh, one of four outposts that Israel evacuated in 2005.

Lawmakers repealed the legislation this year that had barred settlers from visiting the site. Over 50 students were rocking in prayer at the yeshiva on a recent visit.

Such decisions have unsettled Israels defence establishment. Settlers said that Israeli forces in May tried to stop them from hauling heavy construction equipment to build a new yeshiva. But when Smotrich pressed, the government abruptly ordered troops to allow settlers to build.

The political echelon ordered the military echelon not to obey the law, said Nitzan Alon, a retired general who once commanded the West Bank region.

The military and COGAT declined to comment on that incident. But a security official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the matter, said Smotrichs intervention has halted several planned demolitions in unauthorized outposts.

Last month, the tug-of-war between Smotrich stalwarts and security-minded military men burst into the open when Israeli authorities were filmed pumping cement into wells south of Hebron, permanently sealing Palestinian water sources in the heat of summer. Palestinians had drilled the wells without permits that Israel rarely provides.

The footage spread on social media, and COGAT was caught off-guard, said the security official. The agency promised any future demolitions of water cisterns would be examined based on their merits.

Smotrichs men are crossing all the lines, said Paz, the former general. They dont care.
After Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Kim Jong Un on Thursday, Japan warned against breaking UN resolutions on arms deals with North Korea.

We are watching (the talks) with concerns including the possibility that it could lead to violations of the Security Councils ban on all arms-related material transactions with North Korea, new Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa told reporters.

There has been widespread speculation that Putin is seeking arms from North Korea to use in his countrys war in Ukraine.

Kamikawa said that the Russian invasion of Ukraine cannot be accepted.

She added: Japan has urged third parties not to provide support to Russian forces. We are watching related activities with concerns.

Kamikawa, appointed on Wednesday, also said Japan will continue to collect and analyse information and work with the United States, South Korea and other nations to ensure complete compliance with relevant United Nations resolutions.

Regarding China, Kamikawa said there were many issues and concerns between the two countries.

Asked about Chinas ban on Japanese seafood imports following the release of wastewater last month from the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant, she said Tokyo would strongly urge China to act responsibly.

At the same time, we will continue to engage in dialogue on various issues and cooperate on common challenges, she said.

It is important that both sides make efforts to build constructive and stable relations.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was scheduled to visit a Russian aircraft plant that manufactures fighter jets before visiting the countrys Pacific Fleet, but his exact whereabouts remained unknown, as South Korea expressed deep concern and regret that his visit has so far focused on expanding military cooperation.

Washington has cautioned that the meeting between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday might result in an agreement for North Korea to contribute munitions for Moscows conflict in Ukraine. In Seoul, there is widespread anxiety that North Korea may acquire advanced weapons technology from Russia in exchange, especially those connected to military surveillance satellites, heightening the threat presented by Kims military nuclear programme.

We express our deep concern and regret that despite repeated warnings from the international community, North Korea and Russia discussed military cooperation issues, including satellite development, during their summit, said Lim Soo-suk, South Koreas Foreign Ministry spokesperson.

Any science and technology cooperation that contributes to nuclear weapons and missile development, including satellite systems that involve ballistic missile technologies, runs against U.N. Security Council resolutions, he said in a briefing.

Kims delegation in Russia also includes several people sanctioned by the Security Council for their involvement in illicit North Korean weapons development activities, including Korean Peoples Army Marshal Ri Pyong Chol and Jo Chun Yong, a ruling party official in charge of munitions policies. Lim stated that Moscow should be aware that military cooperation with North Korea will have very negative consequences for its ties with Seoul.

South Korean Unification Minister Kim Yung-ho, who handles North Korean affairs, warned that potential arms transfers between the North and Russia would prompt stronger responses from South Korea, the United States, and Japan, which have been stepping up trilateral security cooperation to deal with regional threats.

White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said Wednesday that North Korea would face consequences if it supplies arms to Russia.

No nation on the planet, nobody, should be helping Mr. Putin kill innocent Ukrainians, Kirby said. If the countries decide to move forward with an arms deal, the US will take measures of the arrangement and deal with it appropriately, he said.

He said that any deal that would improve North Koreas military capabilities certainly would be of significant concern to us.

The world has been largely relying on Russian and North Korean media for information about Kims diplomacy in Russia, which underscores an aligning interest between the nuclear-armed countries locked in escalating tensions with the West.

A day after giving intense coverage to the Putin-Kim summit, Russian media outlets were silent on Kim as of Thursday afternoon. North Korean state media have been reporting on Kims activities in Russia a day late and crafting their reports to support the governments propaganda needs.

North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency said on Thursday that Kim had invited Putin to visit North Korea at a convenient time and that Putin accepted with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history of friendship between the nations.

Putin told Russian state TV after the summit that Kim will travel to two more cities in Russias Far East on his own, flying to Komsomolsk-on-Amur, where he will visit an aircraft plant, and then go to Vladivostok to view Russias Pacific Fleet, a university and other facilities.

During their meeting on Wednesday at Russias spaceport in the Far East, Kim vowed full and unconditional support for Putin in what he described as a just fight against hegemonic forces to defend its sovereign rights, security and interests, in an apparent reference to the war in Ukraine.

The decision to meet at the Vostochny Cosmodrome suggested that Kim was seeking Russian help in developing military reconnaissance satellites. He has previously said they are crucial to enhancing the threat of his nuclear-capable missiles, and North Korea has repeatedly failed to place spy satellites into orbit.

The aircraft plant in Komsomolsk-on-Amur would be another location that possibly hints at what Kim seeks to gain from Russia in exchange for help fueling Putins war on Ukraine.

Some analysts question whether Russia, which has always closely guarded its sensitive weapons technologies, would be willing to share them with North Korea in exchange for what may end up being limited supplies of munitions moved slowly through their small land link.

They say military cooperation between the countries could be more about conventional capabilities, such as Russia possibly helping North Korea improve its badly aged air force that remains reliant on fighter jets sent by the Soviet Union in the 1980s.

Putin told reporters that Russia and North Korea have lots of interesting projects in spheres like transportation and agriculture and that Moscow is providing its neighbour with humanitarian aid. But he avoided talking about military cooperation, saying only that Russia is abiding by the sanctions prohibiting procuring weapons from North Korea.

Wednesdays meeting came hours after North Korea fired two ballistic missiles toward the sea, extending a highly provocative run in testing since 2022, as Kim used the distraction caused by the war in Ukraine to accelerate his weapons development.
Taiwan is not for sale, the islands foreign minister stated in a strong rebuke to Elon Musk, who said Taiwan was an important part of China as the billionaire delved into the contentious topic of ties between Beijing and Taipei.

Musk, the owner of the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as the Tesla electric vehicle firm and the Starlink satellite network, made the remarks during the All-In Summit in Los Angeles, which were uploaded to YouTube.

Their (Beijings) policy has been to reunite Taiwan with China. From their standpoint, maybe it is analogous to Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China mostly because  the U.S. Pacific Fleet has stopped any sort of reunification effort by force, he said.

Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, in a post on X late Wednesday, responded that he hoped Musk could ask China to open @X to its people. China blocks X, along with other major Western social media like Facebook.

Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off @Starlink to thwart Ukraines counterstrike against Russia, Wu added, referring to Musks refusing a Ukrainian request to activate his Starlink satellite network in Crimeas port city of Sevastopol last year to aid an attack on Russias fleet there.

Listen up, Taiwan is not part of the PRC & certainly not for sale! Wu said, using the acronym for the Peoples Republic of China.

Taiwans democratically elected government strongly rejects Chinas sovereignty claims and says only Taiwans people can decide their future.

This is not the first time Musk, whose Tesla had a large factory in Shanghai, has riled Taiwan.

Last October, he suggested that tensions between China and Taiwan could be resolved by handing over some control of Taiwan to Beijing, drawing a similarly strong reprimand from Taiwan.
Pakistans electoral commission has questioned the impartiality of the countrys caretaker government, which is in charge of organising elections nationwide, claiming that it looks to be supporting Imran Khans detractors who are imprisoned.

Concerns have been expressed over Khans continuing detention and ban from running for office despite the caretaker governments intentions to maintain fairness in the lead-up to the election, which was established last month when parliaments five-year term expired.

It is a general perception that the caretaker government is a continuation of the previous government, says a letter seen by Reuters written by the Election Commission to the office of caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar.

With the help of an alliance of almost a dozen parties, Kakar, whose party was a partner in the outgoing anti-Khan coalition government, succeeded Shehbaz Sharif, a representative of Khans main competitor, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

The letter, which is dated Wednesday, represents a rare formal criticism of the administration. In Pakistan, election outcomes are rarely universally recognised, and allegations of bias might further tarnish the processs legitimacy.

The national election, which is scheduled for November but is very expected to be delayed, has increased political unrest in the 241 million country, which is currently experiencing its greatest economic crisis.

The voting has not yet been scheduled, and observers worry that the caretaker government will remain in power for a longer period.

Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi dispelled the suggestion of bias.

We have no favourite horses in this race, he told Reuters in a message on Thursday, saying his government will assist the commission in providing a level-playing field to all parties.

Asked about the commissions suggestions he said, the Prime Minister and myself have not uttered a word against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and Imran Khan after assuming our new role.

The letter arrived shortly after Kakar appointed a devoted supporter of Khans major rival, former three-term Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, to his cabinet. It stated that due care should be taken to prevent the addition of individuals with known political allegiances to the government.

Other Sharif party and coalition allies are represented in the cabinet, along with outspoken Khan detractors who claim they were victimised while he was in power from 2018 to 2022.

Khan, who was overthrown in April 2022 by a vote of confidence in the parliament, blames the military for his demise since he had a falling out with the generals, who often pick who will reign.

(With agency inputs)
Pakistan President Arif Alvi on Wednesday unilaterally proposed November 6 as the date for the general elections in a letter written to the chief election commissioner, amidst controversy over polling dates in the cash-strapped country.

In his letter to CEC Sikandar Sultan Raja, President Alvi cited Article 48(5) of the Constitution, which he said: empowers and mandates the president to appoint a date not later than 90 days from the date of the dissolution, for the holding of a general election to the Assembly.

Hence, in terms of Article 48(5), the general election to the National Assembly should be held by the 89th day of the date of dissolution of the National Assembly, i.e. Monday, 6th day of November 2023, wrote Alvi, who was a founding member of jailed former prime minister Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party.

Alvi wrote that in an endeavour to fulfil the constitutional obligations, the chief election commissioner was invited for a meeting to devise the modalities of implementing the constitutional intent and mandate.

However, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) chief turned down the invitation by saying that the president had nothing to do with the election date.

Alvi in his letter alluded to Rajas response, saying that the CEC took a contrary view that as per the scheme of the Constitution and framework of electoral laws, it was the domain of the Election Commission, and following the publication of last preceding census on August 7, duly notified delimitation of constituencies was in progress, a mandatory requirement stipulated by Article 51(5) of the Constitution and section 17 of the Elections Act, 2017.

Interestingly, President Alvis five-year term ended last week. Under the Constitution, he will continue to serve as head of state until the next presidential elections, which will take place after general polls in the country.

The development comes two days after President Alvi met with the caretaker Law Minister Ahmed Irfan Aslam on Monday to discuss the elections. The National Assembly was dissolved on August 9 making it mandatory to hold elections within 90 days.

However, the previous government just days before the end of its term endorsed the results of the countrywide census.

The decision made it mandatory for the election commission to devise new electoral districts before elections for which it has been provided 120 days by the constitution of the country.

The ECP has announced to complete the delimitation process by November 30 and then announce election schedules which are expected to be held in January.

However, the president and some political parties insist that the elections should be held within 90 days. There is another controversy as the president insists that he got the powers under the Constitution to set a date for elections which is disputed by many including the ECP.

The counterargument is that he lost power to set a date after tweaks in election laws by the previous government and now the ECP is empowered to set a date.
The United States is worried that a restored Moscow-Pyongyang axis may strengthen Russias military in Ukraine and provide Kim Jong Un access to critical missile technology. This is why Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed Kim Jong Uns offer to visit North Korea.

The invitation was extended during a summit in eastern Russia when they talked about the war in Ukraine, military issues, and supporting North Koreas satellite programmes.

After Kim, 39, was shown around Russias most cutting-edge space launch facility by Putin, 70, and they had talks with their respective defence ministries, the two leaders toasted their relationship with Russian wine and used the term comrades to refer to one another.

At the end of the reception, Kim Jong Un courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK at a convenient time, KCNA said, referring to the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea, North Koreas formal name.

The invitation was gratefully accepted, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, and Sergei Lavrov, the foreign minister, will visit Pyongyang in October. Putin has not made many international trips since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

The growing friendship between Kim and Putin worries the United States and its allies. Although North Korea has been charged by Washington with selling weapons to Russia, it is unknown whether any shipments have actually taken place.

Both Russia and North Korea have refuted these assertions while pledging to strengthen their defence cooperation. Sergei Shoigu, the defence minister, was shown prohibited ballistic missiles by Kim during a trip to North Korea in July.

Kim is due on Thursday to visit military and civilian aviation factories in the Russian city of Komsomolsk-on-Amur and to inspect Russias Pacific fleet in Vladivostok, Putin said.

North Korea and Russia would pay a price if they disobeyed United Nations Security Council resolutions, according to the National Security Council of South Korea (NSC) on Thursday.

Kim on Wednesday salute to Putins health, the triumph of great Russia, and the friendship between Korea and Russia while eating a lavish lunch of Russian pelmeni dumplings filled with Kamchatka crab, white Amur fish soup, and sturgeon. Kim also predicts that Moscow will win its sacred fight with the West.

The Soviet Union assisted in the founding of North Korea in September 1948, and during the Cold War, Moscow continued to help the country for many years. However, after the Soviet Unions demise in 1991, Moscows assistance for North Korea waned.

Although Pyongyangs authorities have frequently attempted to strike a balance between relations with both Moscow and Beijing, China has been perceived as the country with the most influence over Kim in recent years.

In July 2000, shortly after succeeding Boris Yeltsin, Putin travelled to Pyongyang to meet with Kim Jong Il, the grandfather of Kim Jong Un.

How far Putin would go to satisfy North Koreas technological wish lists remained unclear at the summit on Wednesday.

Russia has increased shell production amid the artillery conflicts in Ukraine, but a North Korean supply route would be helpful.

It is thought that North Korea has a sizable stockpile of rockets and artillery rounds that can be used with weaponry from the Soviet era.

When asked if Russia could just lift the sanctions against North Korea, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded that the country was still a responsible UN Security Council member.

Moscow will, however, advance its relations with North Korea in accordance with its own interests, Peskov added.

According to the U.S. State Department, the Biden administration wont hesitate to put further sanctions on North Korea and Russia should they reach any new arms agreements.

Because Washington has sowed turmoil and delivered weaponry to allies around the world, Russian diplomats claimed it was hypocritical of the United States to oppose the summit.

The United States has no right to lecture us on how to live, Russias ambassador to the United States, Anatoly Antonov, said in a statement.

(With agency inputs)
Vladimir Putin has accepted an invitation to visit North Korea, Pyongyang state media said Thursday, as he and Kim Jong Un toasted cooperation and friendship between our countries during a meeting in Russia.

Kim is on a visit to Russias far east, as Putin seeks to bolster alliances with other leaders ostracised by Western countries.

The North Korean leader is also due to oversee a display of Russian warships during his visit, Putin has said, to demonstrate the capabilities of the Pacific Fleet.

Western allies have raised concerns of a possible arms agreement between Russia and North Korea, as Moscows war in Ukraine grinds on.

After a meeting between the two leaders on Wednesday, Kim Jong Un courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK at a convenient time, according to the state-run KCNA news agency, which referred to the country by its official name.

Putin accepted the invitation with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history and tradition of the Russia-DPRK friendship.

Kim told Putin on Wednesday he was sure Russia would win a great victory over its enemies.

There took place a tete-a-tete between Kim Jong Un and Putin after the extended talks, according to KCNA, and Kim left a message in a visitors book which read: The glory of Russia that produced the first conquerors of space will be immortal.

Russia became a pariah in the West after launching full-scale hostilities in Ukraine last year and has looked to strengthen alliances with other leaders facing similar isolation.

Putin praised the strengthening of cooperation and friendship between our countries, while hosting Kim at a spaceport in Russias far east, and told reporters he saw possibilities for military cooperation with North Korea.

He had earlier said Moscow could help Pyongyang build satellites.

In Washington, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said any cooperation would be quite troubling and would potentially be in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions.

US officials and experts have said Russia is interested in buying North Korean ammunition to use in Ukraine.

While Kim was in Russia, Pyongyang fired two ballistic missiles on Wednesday, the South Korean military said, the latest in a string of sanctions-busting tests.

Raising a toast during an official dinner following one-on-one talks, Kim told Putin: We are confident that the Russian army and people will win a great victory in the just fight to punish evil groups who pursue hegemony, expansion, and ambition.

He also praised the heroic Russian army.
Myanmars junta is endangering the life of jailed democracy figurehead Aung San Suu Kyi, her political party said on Thursday, accusing the generals of depriving her of medical care and food during her incarceration.

Suu Kyi has been detained since the military seized power in February 2021, ending a 10-year democratic experiment and plunging the Southeast Asian into bloody turmoil.

In recent days local media have reported the Nobel laureate, 78, was suffering dizzy spells, vomiting and unable to eat because of a tooth infection.

We are particularly concerned that she is not receiving adequate medical care and they are not providing healthy food nor accommodation sufficiently with the intention to risk her life, the National League for Democracy said.

If Daw Aung San Suu Kyis health is not only impaired but her life also is endangered, the military junta is solely responsible, the statement said, using a Burmese honorific.
Praises for Indias successful conduction of the G20 Summit has reverberated across the world. Locals in the neighbouring country of Pakistan have also taken the opportunity to sing praises for India.

When heads of the top 20 countries visit the country, it is an honour for the country. Indian economy will get many benefits from it, a local resident said.

The big-ticket event, which drew heads of state of over 30 countries and delegates of leading international organisations, was hosted over two days  September 9 and 10  at the state-of-the-art Bharat Mandapam at Delhis Pragati Maidan.

The two-day mega huddle saw the G20 members states adopt the New Delhi Declaration by consensus. The declaration even had a reference to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with the members, while not outrightly condemning Russia, called on all coutries to refrain from using force to grab territory.

I think we have failed in our foreign policy and because of this the G-20 summit is being held in our neighbouring country and heads of state are coming. In the last 5-6 years our economy and the security situation have deteriorated. The world has sidelined us another local told ANI.

#WATCH | Pakistan: Another local says, I think we have failed in our foreign policy and because of this the G-20 summit is being held in our neighbouring country and heads of state are coming. In the last 5-6 years our economy and the security situation have deteriorated. The pic.twitter.com/HFhwPhWPtg  ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2023

At a time when we are desperately trying to lift our economy from the dumps, India played host to leaders of the 20 major economies of the world. The succesfully conduct of the global event would have filled the Indians with pride. We all saw pictures from India, of (PM) Modi posing with world leaders, yet another resident said.

He added, They were successful in showcasing India in a positive light before a global audience. The Shezada of Saudi Arabia (Crown Prince Salman) didnt come here (to Pakistan) but went to India for the G20 Summit. This shows the growing importance of India for the world. It was also surprising that Bangladesh was invited but Pakistan wasnt.

Earlier, Pakistani media outlet Geo News had reported, citing sources, that the Saudi crown prince was to visit Pakistan in the second week of September.

According to the report, during visit visit, Crown Prince Salman was expected to meet the countrys caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir.

With inputs from ANI
Following a meeting with the commander of the Philippine armed forces on Thursday, the head of the US Indo-Pacific Command said that the US military might be given access to new sites in the Philippines as part of a cooperative defence agreement between the two nations.

After earlier this year accusing Washington of stoking the fire when the Philippines increased the number of bases the US. military could use to nine, China is sure to react adversely.

Four other locations were authorised, three of which faced Taiwan to the north and one of which was close to the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea, the scene of a recent spat between Manila and Beijing over a disputed atoll.

US Admiral John Aquilino claimed that he and the head of the Philippine military, Lieutenant General Romeo Brawner, had discussed and made recommendations to our senior leaders regarding increasing the number of locations US personnel are permitted to access under the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).

China is worried about the strengthening of US defence ties with the Philippines following a period of decline.

The United States claims it wants to strengthen an alliance that is already powerful and strengthen Philippine defences.

According to Brawner, the objectives of EDCA were training exercises and humanitarian and disaster response, important tenets of a long-standing partnership between the two nations. Regional security challenges were unrelated to EDCA, he added.

The allies were working to clinch an agreement to increase intelligence sharing, according to Aquilino, who was in Manila for an annual summit on bilateral defence cooperation.

The conference takes place as the Western Command of the Philippines expressed worries on Thursday over a resurgence of Chinese fishing boats swarming in waters near the Spratly islands, inside the Exclusive Economic Zone of the Philippines.

China holds indisputable sovereignty over the Spratlys, which it refers to as Nansha Islands, according to the Chinese embassy in Manila.

(With agency inputs)
Hailing the bilateral partnership between India and the United States on Wednesday, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said that the strategic partnership between the two countries has never been more dynamic.

He said that India and the US are teamed up on everything, be it advanced semiconductors or defense cooperation.

Blinken made the remarks while delivering an address at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies as part of its Brzezinski Lecture Series on Wednesday.

The US-India strategic partnership has never been more dynamic, as we team up on everything from advanced semiconductors to defense cooperation, he said.

The US State Secretary further spoke at length on the QUAD (Quadrilateral Dialogue) alliance and said, Weve elevated the Quad partnership with India, Japan, and Australia to deliver for our countries and the world on everything from manufacturing vaccines to strengthening maritime security to addressing climate challenges.

In his address, Blinken also highlighted the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor which was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the G20 Summit, which recently concluded in New Delhi.

He said, And just this past week at the G20, President Biden and Indian Prime Minister Modi announced another ambitious transportation, energy, and technology corridor that will connect the ports of Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy, and the EU will team up with the U.S. and India to turbocharge clean energy production, digital connectivity, and strengthen critical supply chains across the region, Blinken added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor promises to be a beacon of cooperation, innovation and shared progress.

He said the corridor is a testament to human endeavour and unity across continents.
Prominent Australian millionaire Tim Gurner has ignited a global controversy with his recent statement saying people were paid a lot to do a lot less during the COVID pandemic and it has had a massive effect on productivity.

He said unemployment should increase twofold as a lesson to workers who display arrogance.

Gurner, who transitioned from owning gyms to becoming a real estate tycoon, expressed the need for economic hardship, asserting, We must hurt the economy.

He was in the news earlier for saying that young people struggle to buy homes due to excessive spending on avocado toast.

A video capturing Gurners remarks has gone viral, amassing over 23 million views and sparking significant online backlash.

Real estate developer Tim Gurner says we need more pain, more layoffs, and higher unemployment in the economy to kill the arrogance of workers. Stop calling these people job creators. Businesses do not exist to create jobs. They exist to create profit.pic.twitter.com/LROIzGpr7l  Keith Boykin (@keithboykin) September 13, 2023

During a property summit this week, the 41-year-old attributed deteriorating work ethics to the Covid-19 pandemic, citing builders as a prime example.

He contended that this shift is negatively affecting productivity in the industry, coupled with more stringent regulations, contributing to Australias housing shortage.

Gurner recommended that Australias current unemployment rate of 3.7% should rise by 40-50% to counter arrogance in the job market, potentially resulting in over 200,000 job losses.

He articulated, A fundamental shift has occurred where employees believe their employers should consider themselves exceedingly fortunate to have them. We need to remind individuals that they are employed by the employer, not the other way around.

These remarks come at a time when many companies are grappling with their workforce over issues like remote work and wages.

Shifting employment attitudes are also generating widespread discussions on social media, giving rise to hashtags such as quiet quitting, which reflects the decision to cease exceeding expectations for employers, and lazy-girl jobs, describing well-paying, flexible positions that offer improved work-life balance.

Gurners comments, initially shared by the Australian Financial Review (AFR), the host of the summit, have garnered criticism on various social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and LinkedIn.

They have also faced condemnation from Australian MPs spanning the political spectrum.

Labor MP Jerome Laxale likened them to remarks youd associate with a cartoon supervillain, while Liberal MP Keith Wolahan stated that they couldnt be more out of touch. Wolahan emphasized, Job loss is not merely a statistic; it results in people on the streets and reliant on food banks.

US lawmaker Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez also weighed in on the property magnates comments.

Its worth remembering that many major CEOs have substantially increased their own earnings to the point where the CEO-to-worker pay ratio is now at some of the highest levels ever recorded, she posted on X.

However, some, like Minerals Council of Australia chairman Andrew Michelmore, defended Gurner. Michelmore argued, Employees have become accustomed to earning the same income without putting in the same effort, in an interview with the AFR.

Gurner serves as the CEO and founder of the Gurner Group, with an estimated net worth of A$929 million (479m; $598m). He has previously acknowledged receiving loans from his grandfather and former employer, which facilitated his journey as a business owner.
At least six Republican candidates will take part in the second 2024 Republican presidential debate on 27 September in California. Here are some facts about the event and what to expect:

When and where will it take place?

Following last months debate in Wisconsin, the second will be held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute in Simi Valley, California, roughly 45 miles (72 km) north of Los Angeles.

The Republican National Committee, which organises the debates, has chosen Fox Business Network to host the event, with Univision, a Spanish-language TV station located in the United States, and Rumble, a popular online video platform among conservatives. The two-hour discussion will begin at 9 p.m. ET (0100 GMT).

Fewer candidates  and likely no Trump again

The qualification standards for the second debate are stricter than those for the first, which had eight contenders on stage in Milwaukee. This implies that two long-shot candidates, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum and former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, will almost certainly miss out on the nomination owing to a lack of contributors and bad polling.

Former President Donald Trump, the undisputed front-runner in the nomination battle, has declared he will boycott the debates and did not attend the first one. Trump, like last month, may organise a competing event at the same time as the debate.

The six candidates likely to be on stage are Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence, former UN ambassador and South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, U.S. Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, biotech investor Vivek Ramaswamy, and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie.

With a smaller lineup, there will be more time for each candidate to attack each other and make their pitches to voters. It also gives them more opportunity to shine or self-destruct.

Desantis desperately needs a breakout performance

DeSantis, who was seen in January as the most likely candidate to topple Trump, has had a torrid year, with sinking poll numbers and two staff shake-ups. Once the clear second-place candidate behind Trump, DeSantis campaign has floundered as some other candidates closed the gap with him in recent polls.

The Florida governor delivered a solid, if not flashy, performance in last months debate but was frequently overshadowed by Ramaswamy. DeSantis will be looking for some breakout moments this time around to rejuvenate his candidacy.

Ramaswamy will get hit from all sides

With Trump currently crushing his rivals by roughly 40 percentage points in national polls, the Republican nominating contest has become a fight for second place. His rivals hope the former presidents four criminal indictments and legal woes will somehow knock him out of the race next year, giving an alternative nominee the chance to emerge.

After Ramaswamys pugnacious performance in the August debate, expect to see more attacks on him and his lack of experience, especially by Haley and Pence, both of whom had strong outings last month.

Like DeSantis, Scott also needs a more forceful night after his subdued one last month. The Haley-Ramaswamy-Scott-Pence scramble to overtake DeSantis and become the clear alternative to Trump will likely be a major dynamic.

Defend Trump, attack Biden

Do not expect to see most candidates  with the exception of Christie  going after Trump for his indictments and the fact he is now the first former president with a mug shot. Many Republican primary voters believe Trumps claim that the indictments are an effort by the Biden administration to thwart his candidacy, and attacking him on the issue would likely be political suicide.

With the Republican-controlled House of Representatives launching a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden over alleged links to the business practices of his son Hunter Biden, expect to see a barrage of accusations against the Democratic president, an issue that plays well with the Republican base despite the dearth of evidence unearthed so far.

A play for Hispanic voters

The inclusion of Univision as a debate host is telling. Republican support among Latinos, an increasingly key voting bloc in some key battleground states, including Arizona and Nevada, has been growing in recent years, while Hispanic support for Biden has been dropping. Expect to see candidates asked about the economy and how they plan to improve the financial prospects for Latino families.
Republican presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy laid out his ideas to shut down the FBI and fire more than 1 million federal workers, lining up with increasingly sweeping conservative proposals targeting the federal government and particularly law enforcement.

Candidates trying to beat former President Donald Trump have responded to growing anger among GOP primary voters about the indictments against Trump as well as federal investigations and policies seen as unfairly targeting conservatives.

Ramaswamys proposals are among the broadest in the field. Speaking at the America First Policy Institute in Washington, he said he would try to reduce the federal employee headcount by half in his first year in office and by 75 per cent during his first term if he makes it to the White House.

He wants to shut down five federal agencies, including the FBI and the Department of Education. He said he would also eliminate the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Food and Nutrition Service.

Swamp-class advisors have duped the greatest presidents of the 21st century into believing that the White House needs Congress to fire federal employees & shut down regulatory agencies. That view is wrong. We will start with the FBI, Dept. of Education, the Nuclear Regulatory pic.twitter.com/hxjs34KYxF  Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) September 13, 2023

The people who we elect to run the government ought to be the ones who actually run the government, Ramaswamy said.

Attempting a purge of that size would immediately lead to huge pushback from federal employees who have civil service protections, interest groups, and lawmakers of both parties who support the work of some or all of those agencies. While in office, Trump often railed against what he saw as a deep state of bureaucrats working against his administrations priorities, but he did not carry out firings of rank-and-file employees.

Ramaswamy, a 38-year-old businessman, has drawn the attention and curiosity of primary voters, especially after his performance at the first Republican presidential debate. Even as he runs against Trump, Ramaswamy has repeatedly praised him as the most effective president this century. In the audience Wednesday was US Rep. Matt Gaetz, a Florida congressman who is one of Trumps staunchest allies in Congress.

Ramaswamy is not the only Republican candidate to suggest slashing the federal workforce. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has said he would eliminate the Internal Revenue Service, or IRS, the Department of Commerce, the Department of Energy, and the Department of Education.

And theres a larger effort to dismantle the federal government that is being fueled by conservative organizations along with former Trump administration officials. They have been working on drafting a plan for when Trump returns to the White House to oust federal employees and replace them with like-minded officials.

Ramaswamy said, currently, presidents act like puppets who cant implement policies. He said he would rescind federal regulations that he considers unconstitutional.

Regarding the plan for the FBI, Ramaswamy said he would fire 20,000 employees deemed to be in non-essential roles and send 15,000 to the US Marshals Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network at the US Department of the Treasury.

Part of the problem when you have a bureaucracy that runs the state is that they find things to do that they shouldnt have been doing in the first place, he said, claiming that the workers had no specialisation in the areas.
The United States has warned of more sanctions on Russia and North Korea as Kim Jong Un arrived in Moscow to meet President Vladimir Putin recently, giving rise to the concerns of a possible arms deal between the two countries, which has remained the talk of the town for quite sometime now.

In a press briefing on Wednesday, the official spokesperson of the US Department of State, Matthew Miller said, And then I want to speak specifically for a second about the idea of North Korea providing weapons to Russia, which I spoke to the other day but I dont think you were here. One, just the overall context, and one thing its important to restate again, that a year and a half ago Vladimir Putin launched this war thinking he was going to restore the glory of the Russian empire, failed in all of his maximalist, imperialist aims, and now a year and a half later, after losing tens of thousands of Russian soldiers and spending billions and billions of dollars, here he is begging Kim Jong-un for help.

So it says something about the overall context of how this war is going for Russia. And with respect to what any outcomes might be, we have taken a number of entity  actions already to sanction entities that have brokered arms sales between North Korea and Russia, and we wont hesitate to impose additional actions if appropriate, he added.

Miller also stated that there is a possibility of weapons flowing two ways here between Russia and North Korea, as he underlined how war unleashed by Russia President Vladimir Putin on Ukraine resulted in the loss of billions of dollars as well as thousands of Russian soldiers.

So were going to watch very closely what comes out of this. I spoke to this somewhat the other day. Were looking at  I will say there are two different  there are possibilities of weapons flowing two different ways here, right? So with respect to either direction, we would watch very closely and be concerned, and will not hesitate to impose sanctions if and when its appropriate, Miller said.

He also highlighted how troubling it is to see the cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

I would say it is troubling when you see the Russians talking about cooperating with North Korea on programs that would violate UN Security Council resolutions that Russia itself voted for. Now, we obviously dont  we havent seen the full manifestation of this meeting yet or what the full outcomes of this meeting will be, but when you see the two  when you see Kim Jong-un vowing to provide full, unconditional support for Russias so-called sacred fight to defend its security interests, which of course is not what its doing with respect to the war in Ukraine, that of course is troubling, Miller told the reporters.

Notably, the North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un arrived in Russia on Tuesday for a closely watched summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Kim Jong Uns visit to Russia marks his first foreign trip since the COVID-19 pandemic as during the pandemic, North Koreas borders were sealed.

Issuing support to Moscow in the ongoing war in Ukraine, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un told President Vladimir Putin that Russia will emerge victorious in the fight to punish the evil forces, adding that he would always be standing with Russia, according to CNN.

He praised Russia for having stood up against the hegemonic forces to defend its sovereignty and security  a veiled reference to the US and the West  and said he has expressed the full and unconditional support to all that Russia does in response.

Kim said the Russian military and its people will inherit the shining tradition of victory and demonstrate their reputation on the front line of the military operation.

The North Korean leader added that both the leaders had an in-depth discussion on the political and military landscape of Korean Peninsula and Europe.

Kim vowed to establish a new era of 100-year friendship between two countries, and proposed a toast to the great Russias new victory and Putins health. Notably, these remarks come amid concerns of Russia getting into an arms deal with North Korea, according to CNN.

On the other hand, Russian President Vladimir Putin has said the country is considering and discussing some military cooperation with North Korea, CNN reported citing Russian state news agency Russia 1.
Update: Samsung Galaxy Buds FE has surfaced in more renders. According to winfuture.de, the earbuds will come with 12mm drivers, and Samsung says it will offer improved bass reproduction.

It also reports that the earbuds will be priced at USD 99.99 (Rs. 8,315 approx.) and 88.90 Euros (Rs. 7,865 approx.) when it goes on sale in the next few weeks.

Samsung is getting ready to introduce a bunch of new products known as Fan Edition. Besides the Galaxy S23 FE, theyre also working on something called Samsung Galaxy Buds FE. And now, the first pictures of these more affordable earbuds were accidentally revealed by Samsung, as reported by winfuture.de.

The manuals for Samsung Galaxy Buds FE are already accessible on Samsungs website for different countries. These PDFs not only give you detailed instructions on how to use the headphones but also provide an early glimpse of what they look like.

From the pictures in the Galaxy Buds FE manual, its evident that these headphones have a unique design compared to previous models. Samsung has opted for a multi-part casing with a touch-sensitive area in the center for control.

Furthermore, Samsung plans to include rubber covers with these earbuds, much like they did with previous in-ear wireless headphones. These covers aim to enhance grip, especially for various ear shapes. The version for larger ears even features fins for a more secure fit.

We still dont have information about the available colors or the pricing for the Galaxy Buds FE. Samsung typically uses the FE label for products that offer many high-end features at a more affordable price, so we might expect these earbuds to be in the budget-friendly segment.

While the release date isnt confirmed, leaks suggest that these devices could be announced soon.

Source 1, 2
London-based consumer technology brand Nothing just announced that it will launch its sub-brand CMF by Nothing in India on 26th September 2023, and we can also expect the first set of products on the same day.

The company already said that its new range of products will have a better design, more accessible to a wider group of consumers. The company added that it believes good design should be more democratic and impact more people.

CMF by Nothing will first launch a smartwatch, earbuds and other accessories, said the company.

Earlier rumours revealed Watch Pro with AMOLED screen, Bluetooth calling, Buds Pro with up to 45dB ANC and Power 65W GAN charger will be launched at the event priced at Rs. 4,500, Rs. 3,500, and Rs. 3,000, respectively.

CMF by Nothing products will be exclusively available online via Flipkart and Myntra, and will also be available offline via Vijay Sales and select stores, said the company.

Community Review Program

Today, the company also announced the first CMF Community Review Program, a platform that aims to support budding content creators and tech enthusiasts.

This program will allow selected participants to not only get their hands on the products before the rest of the world, but be able to create content, share reviews and feedback with the larger community

Selected creators will get access to CMF by Nothing products on successful completion of the program, get their content featured on CMFs official social media handles, said the company. Applicants can sign up and get additional information via cmf.tech.

The CMF by Nothing launch event on September 26th starts at 2:30 PM IST.
Issue Date: 13th September 2023

Gardai in Galway have made a further arrest in connection with a public order and endangerment incident that occurred on Sunday, 10th September 2023, in Galway City.

A man in his late teens was arrested in Galway yesterday evening and is currently being held at a Garda Station in the Western Region under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984.

The arrest follows an altercation involving a group of individuals in the car park of a premises on Headford Road, during which a vehicle was driven recklessly at a group of people on Sunday evening last.

This is the 9th person to be arrested and detained as part of this investigation following a series of search and arrest operations in the Galway area in recent days.

Five of the individuals arrested are expected to appear before a sitting of Galway District Court this afternoon charged in connection with the investigation.

Gardai in Galway continue to appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward. They are particularly appealing to those who were in the College Road and Headford Road areas in Galway between 5.45pm and 6.45pm on Sunday evening and observed any violent behavior, to contact them. Additionally, individuals with camera footage, including dash cam recordings, from the area are urged to provide this material to the Gardai.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Galway Garda Station at 091 538 000, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
Apple iPhone 15 Can Set Battery Recharge Limit Via iOS 17 Setting To Prolong Life: Will Older Devices Benefit? News oi -Alap Naik Desai

Apple Inc. will soon release iOS 17 for its iPhone smartphones. Included in the update is an important feature that can help prolong battery longevity. The latest iPhone 15 series iOS smartphones will be able to limit how much their battery can recharge.

The Apple iPhone 15 series with USB Type-C ports, Bionic A17 SoC, professional-grade camera setup, and other features are here. The iOS 17 OS powering them will be released soon. Let's take a look at one of the most interesting features in the upcoming iOS update.

Battery Charge Limit Feature Included In iOS 17 Update

One of the features that Apple currently offers to help protect batteries inside its Apple iPhone, MacBook laptops, and other portable devices is called "Optimized Battery Charging".

This feature learns users' daily usage patterns and then adjusts the charging schedule to keep the battery at 80 percent charge most of the time the device is plugged into a charger.

While this feature is helpful, it may not be useful for users who have a dynamic schedule that keeps changing. Apple offers to alert users when their devices' battery reaches 100 percent.

Moving forward, iPhone users will be able to limit the charge level of their devices, irrespective of their schedules. This feature is already available on laptops running Windows OS and can be acquired using third-party apps on macOS.

Limiting batteries to 80 percent charge is a common technique to slow down the inevitable degradation process. This is because batteries at a slightly lower charge level heat up less and aren't stressed excessively. Several experts urge setting such limits on devices that remain connected to a charger but have a battery inside them for portability.

Will All iPhones With iOS 17 OS Update Be Able To Limit Battery Recharge Levels?

Several laptops running Windows OS need to have a special application built by the device's manufacturer to limit battery recharge levels. Windows can't control the charging circuitry.

The Battery Charge Limit feature is present in the iOS 17. However, the feature may not work on all Apple iPhone devices that are eligible for iOS 17. This is because Apple may have been able to include the feature due to the presence of the USB-C port on the latest iPhone 15 series devices.

It is possible that Apple could make the feature backward compatible for iPhone 14 and previous generation iOS smartphones. However, the company may need to reprogram its now obsolete proprietary lightning port to enable the new feature.

Best Mobiles in India

Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications
Comment by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Russia's humanitarian aid to Nagorno-Karabakh

12 September 2023 15:09

1750-12-09-2023



Russia is acting consistently to help ease the complicated humanitarian situation is Nagorno-Karabakh. In keeping with the initiative advanced by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during a trilateral meeting with the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia held on July 25, 2023 in Moscow, we worked together with all the concerned parties to coordinate a scheme of a parallel unblocking of the Lachin and Aghdam routes. In light of substantial differences and a high level of mutual mistrust, it was a difficult process.

As the first step, a batch of humanitarian aid was delivered to the region on September 12, 2023, through the national public organisation Russian Red Cross. The distressed residents of Nagorno-Karabakh received approximately 15 tonnes of food and hygiene products, as well as bedding. We hope that, considering the agreements reached previously, the Lachin Corridor will be unblocked together with the Aghdam route in the near future, and that humanitarian aid will be freely and regularly delivered to the region via these routes.

We hope that this will stabilise the humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh and restore normal life for people there. In turn, this will create conditions for launching dialogue between Baku and Stepanakert and resuming regular work to implement the entire range of the trilateral agreements on the normalisation of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations that were reached at the top level in 2020-2022.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Allvin stresses need to modernize, transform Air Force during Senate confirmation hearing

Published Sept. 12, 2023

By Charles Pope

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- Gen. David W. Allvin told a Senate committee Tuesday that, if confirmed as the next Air Force Chief of Staff, he will press hard to follow through on modernizing and reshaping the service to meet current and emerging threats, conceding that the effort will require tough choices.

"The opportunity to be the next Air Force Chief of Staff comes at a very important time in history and I fully appreciate, and embrace, the weight of what is at stake," Allvin told the Senate Armed Services Committee during his confirmation hearing.

"The balance of risk over time to ensure sufficient readiness today and tomorrow demands constant attention. If confirmed, I pledge continued collaboration with this body as the Air Force analyzes and develops courses of action to best pursue our national security objectives," said Allvin, who, if confirmed would succeed Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. as the Air Force's highest ranking military officer.

In the course of the hearing, Allvin praised Brown, saying, "It has been an honor to be his wingman." He also alluded to Brown's separate and still pending nomination to be the next Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. "I look forward to continued service alongside him as a member of the Joint Chiefs," he said.

Allvin's appearance before the Committee marked a notable - but natural - step in his journey from his current position as Air Force Vice Chief of Staff to Chief of Staff.

In a polite and mostly cordial session, he answered questions ranging from the analysis used to decide which platforms to retire, to how best to maintain a robust industrial base and the status of the KC-46 tanker. Allvin also addressed questions on the risks if Congress fails to pass a full budget, development of the LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile, and protection of cyber systems, among others.

"General, you are extremely well qualified to serve as Chief of Staff of the Air Force," Committee Chairman Sen. Jack Reed of Rhode Island said. "If confirmed, you will lead at a momentous time. Air power is key to our strategic competition with China and other adversaries."

Allvin told the committee he is aware of the stakes and complexity that come with the job.

"Our nation is coming to grips with the rapid pace of change that is upon us, and with those intending to act out against our national interests while aggressively seeking the means to do so. America's national security focus is crucial as we navigate this new global landscape with our Allies and partners, especially as opportunities for distraction and confusion are increasingly exploited," he said.

In addition to the dynamic geo-security environment Allvin will confront if he is confirmed, he also must navigate an unprecedented circumstance closer to home - a senator's blockade on all military confirmations that has been in place for six months.

Responding to a question about the stalled nominations, Allvin said there is "anecdotal" evidence that the Senate's refusal to confirm more than 300 general officers and flag officers is having a negative impact on recruiting and retention.

No matter when he becomes Chief of Staff, should he be confirmed, Allvin has a deep and accomplished record as an Air Force officer with 37 years of experience in a wide variety of important and demanding roles.

A 1986 graduate of the Air Force Academy, Allvin is a command pilot with more than 4,600 flight hours in over 30 aircraft, including 800 test flight hours and 100 flight hours in combat.

He has commanded at the squadron and wing levels, which included serving as the commander for the 97th Air Mobility Wing and 618th Air and Space Operations Center. He also held major command staff assignments and served in several Joint Staff positions, including as commanding general for the NATO Air Training Command - Afghanistan and NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan/Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, and commander for the 438th Air Expeditionary Wing.

Allvin has served as the director for Strategy and Policy for Headquarters U.S. European Command and vice director for Strategy, Plans, and Policy at the Joint Staff. More recently, prior to his current assignment as Air Force vice chief of staff, he was the director for Strategy, Plans, and Policy, Joint Staff.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






10th AAMDC Staff visit Port of Aarhus, Air Defense is critical to force flow

By Spc. Yesenia Cadavid September 13, 2023

U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Compton, 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command G3 Plans and Operations Deputy conducts a sea port site visit Sept. 4 in Aarhus, Denmark.

Aarhus Port is a pivotal maritime hub nestled along Denmark's eastern coastline within the Bay of Aarhus. This port proudly hosts the nation's largest container terminal, responsible for managing 65% of Denmark's annual container traffic. Moreover, it boasts the distinction of Denmark's premier public bulk port, underscoring its undeniable strategic importance.

Seaports are critical for Europe in transporting equipment throughout countries. These ports serve as linchpins, ensuring that military assets are optimally positioned, ready for rapid deployment, and abundantly supplied throughout military Operations. With Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, transferring military equipment through ports is essential for the efficient movement, deployment, and sustainment of military forces. Ports play a vital role in ensuring that military assets are positioned strategically, can be rapidly deployed when needed, and are adequately supplied during military operations, all of which contribute to a nation's readiness.

For the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, air defense protection is essential for seaports to defend against any air threats.

"There is only so much Air Defense that can go around," said Compton. "Within the 10th AAMDC, our responsibility is judiciously allocating air and missile defense systems. We meticulously assess the port's vulnerability to aerial threats, factoring in the criticality of our air defense assets."

U.S. Army Capt. Abigail Wheeler, 10th AAMDC G2 Special Security Officer, accompanied the team during the site visit to the Port of Aarhus.

"From a Security Officer's perspective, while conducting site surveys, we assess potential threats, scrutinize current physical security measures, and evaluate infrastructure integrity to safeguard personnel and assets," said Wheeler. "Our purview spans access control, adept surveillance, communication systems, collaboration with local entities, and the formulation of robust emergency protocols to support the 10th AAMDC's mission."

In summary, the port site visit to Aarhus, Denmark, epitomizes the strategic significance of seaports in modern military operations. It emphasizes the ports' critical role in ensuring Europe's readiness, security, and rapid deployment capabilities.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Council of Europe: High Representative/Vice-President Borrell meets Secretary-General Marija Pejcinovic Buric

European External Action Service (EEAS)

13.09.2023

EEAS Press Team

Today, the EU High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell met with Marija Pejcinovic Buric, Secretary-General of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg.

High Representative/Vice-President Borrell and Secretary-General Buric reiterated their commitment to deepen the high-level political dialogue and to reinforce even further the EU-Council of Europe strategic partnership in the areas of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

Following the EU's high-level participation in the Council of Europe's Reykjavik Summit in May 2023, the meeting provided an opportunity to exchange on the current state of play of the Summit follow-up process and other topics of common interest.

The Secretary-General expressed gratitude for the EU's assistance in the rapid establishment of a Register of Damage Caused by the Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine. The EU joined the Register as a founding associate member. They both reflected on possible future steps in setting-up an international compensation mechanism for the victims of Russia's aggression.

High Representative Borrell and the Secretary-General Buric welcomed the EU accession to the Istanbul Convention and the significant progress on the EU accession to the European Convention on Human Rights.

During the meeting, they discussed the EU's enlargement policy and opportunities for extended cooperation between the EU and the Council of Europe in view of the growing number of candidate countries. The High Representative debriefed on his recent visit to Georgia.

They also addressed the continued restrictions on free movement along the Lachin corridor and the serious humanitarian situation facing Karabakh Armenians, as well as the application of Kosovo to become member of the Council of Europe.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






The President at Krynica Forum: Lithuania and Poland are reliable allies in strengthening regional security

President of the Republic of Lithuania

September 13, 2023

On Wednesday, President Gitanas Nauseda took part in the Krynica Forum opening event and participated in a debate together with President Andrzej Duda of Poland.

Speaking at the debate on the special role played by Polish-Lithuanian cooperation in regional security architecture within the context of Russia's aggression against Ukraine, the President said that from the very outset of the war, the two countries started to provide extensive financial, military and humanitarian support to Ukraine without delay or hesitation.

"Our joint and resolute action in international politics has significantly contributed to many important processes: introducing EU sanctions against Russia and Belarus, freezing Russian state and oligarch assets, securing Ukraine's financing through EU instruments, and phasing out Russian energy sources. Lithuania and Poland will continue to work together to hold Russia accountable for crimes of war and aggression," the President said.

According to Gitanas Nauseda, the primary objective now is to continue providing Ukraine with the support it needs for as long as it takes. "Partnership between Lithuania and Poland in their support for Ukraine until victory has never wavered. We will continue to build on this partnership, and we will not allow the aggressor to dictate the rules," the President said.

Gitanas Nauseda stressed the significance of the Lublin Triangle, a trilateral format linking Poland, Lithuania and Ukraine, in Ukraine's fight against the aggressor and on its path to Euro-Atlantic integration. "We share our expertise and knowledge through this trilateral format, we train Ukrainian troops in NATO standards and practices. The historical past and the experiences of the Lublin Triangle countries enable us like no other to identify the threats posed by Russia. Together, we must constantly reiterate the danger that Russia poses to European and global security and order. Acting in solidarity with the entire democratic and free world, we must secure a stable and peaceful Europe, where all nations can live freely and build their well-being unimpeded," the President said.

The President's Communication Group

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






No war will break out in region: Iran defense minister on Azerbaijan-Armenia row

Iran Press TV

Wednesday, 13 September 2023 10:43 AM

Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani has ruled out the possibility of a new round of fighting between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting in Tehran on Wednesday, Ashtiani stated that "no war will break out in the Caucasus region."

He underscored Iran's "clear and transparent" position concerning the geopolitics of the Caucasus, saying, "We won't approve of any change in regional geopolitics."

"We are keeping a close watch on the unfolding developments; they do not indicate that a dramatic incident is in the offing."

On Monday, the spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry said Tehran is closely monitoring the situation in the Caucasus region and stays in contact with Yerevan and Baku to ensure peace and security.

"Armenian officials have voiced concern about the possibility of (military) clashes. Azerbaijani authorities, however, sent a message that they have no intention of engagement in a confrontation (with Armenia)," Nasser Kan'ani noted.

He went on to describe the Republic of Azerbaijan's recent deployment of troops as a "conventional military action" ahead of winter.

"Iran is seriously monitoring the developments. We'd give an assurance that Iran's borders are safe and we support the security of boundaries," Kan'ani underlined.

He also noted that Iran has unchanging and transparent stances on the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh.

Located in the South Caucasus, the landlocked region of Nagorno-Karabakh has been at the center of a dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia for more than three decades.

Since gaining independence from the former Soviet Union in 1991, the two neighboring countries have fought two wars, in 1994 and 2020, over the mountainous territory.

Karabakh, while acknowledged as a part of Azerbaijan by the international community, has a predominantly Armenian population that has persistently opposed Azerbaijani governance since a separatist war in 1994.

Tensions remain high and skirmishes along the shared border are a regular occurrence despite mediation efforts by the European Union, the United States and Russia.

Russia brokered a peace deal between the two sides in November 2020 bringing an end to a 44-day war in the region. It has since deployed about 2,000 troops to the region to serve as peacekeepers.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Palestinian PM urges UK to recognize State of Palestine, back its UN membership

Iran Press TV

Wednesday, 13 September 2023 9:15 AM

Palestinian Prime Minister has urged the United Kingdom to recognize an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East al-Quds as its capital and demanded London support its full membership in the United Nations.

During a meeting with visiting British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly West Bank city of Ramallah on Tuesday, Mohammad Shtayyeh also called on the UK to provide aid to Palestinian institutions.

"Tomorrow will be too late in case no action is taken today," Shtayyeh said pointing out to deteriorating status quo and demographics in the occupied territories.

"The United Kingdom bears a moral and historical responsibility towards the Palestinian people; it must be a positive player in realizing the rights of the Palestinian people and finding a political solution that meets their aspirations."

The Palestinian prime minister highlighted that the so-called two-state initiative is fading and being violated systematically on a daily basis, and it has become fairly difficult to implement it.

He called on the United Kingdom to engage seriously and at the highest political levels in order to put an end to the Israeli occupation and establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

"We call for a reconsideration of British policies and for its discourse to be consistent with its belief in the international law," Shtayyeh underlined.

He also called on the United Kingdom to urge Israel to abide by signed agreements, allow elections to be held in all Palestinian territories, including al-Quds, and put pressure on the Tel Aviv regime to release all the withheld bodies of Palestinians killed at the hands of its forces.

The Palestinian prime minister also called for the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions, especially Resolution 2334, and the cessation of all Israeli settlement expansion activities across the occupied Palestinian territories, including in East al-Quds.

For his part, Cleverly affirmed his country's commitment to the so-called two-state solution and continued support for the growth of Palestinian institutions.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Yemen giving aggressor regimes 'one last chance' to end war: PM

Iran Press TV

Wednesday, 13 September 2023 8:10 AM

The prime minister of Yemen's National Salvation Government says there is only "one last chance" for the member states of the Saudi-led aggressor coalition to end their war on the impoverished country.

In a statement carried by al-Masirah TV on Tuesday, Abdulaziz bin Habtour warned that Sana'a will consider an "appropriate response" to the aggressor regimes that have deprived the government of its revenues.

"The countries involved in aggression are stubborn and believe that they are exerting popular pressure on us regarding salaries, however, we trust the awareness of our people in Sana'a and consider the appropriate response," he said.

"We give the countries involved in aggression one last chance" as was stated by the leader of Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement Abdul-Malik al-Houthi.

The premier also said that currently, all the government's revenue sources were in the hands of the occupiers.

Previously, 75 percent of Yemen's budget revenues came from oil and gas, 15 percent from taxes and customs, and the remaining from grants, loans, etc., he added.

Today, however, Hudaydah port is the only source of income and constitutes only 10 percent of the entitled revenues which is sufficient to pay half of the salaries of civil servants every three months, according to Habtour.

Bin Habtour further said that Yemen is "still in a state of war with the aggressor countries" despite efforts by Oman to revive talks aimed at the extension of a truce between Sana'a and the coalition.

The UN-brokered ceasefire, which was reached last year, is still largely in place despite its official expiry. It has significantly reduced clashes over the past months.

The Yemeni prime minister hailed Oman's mediating role as "sincere," noting, however, that its impact is limited.

He emphasized that the Saudi-led coalition members are the ones who should take the initiative and stop the war.

Saudi Arabia initiated a brutal war of aggression against Yemen in March 2015, enlisting the assistance of some of its regional allies, as well as massive shipments of advanced weaponry from the US and Western Europe.

The Western governments further extended their political and logistical support to Riyadh in their failed bid to restore power in Yemen to the country's former Saudi-installed government.

The former Yemeni government's president, Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi, resigned from the presidency in late 2014 and later fled to Riyadh amid a political conflict with Ansarullah. The movement has been running Yemen's affairs in the absence of a functioning administration.

The war further led to the killing of tens of thousands of Yemenis and turned the entire nation into the scene of the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Is Armenia Turning To The West?

By Joshua Kucera September 13, 2023

For centuries, Armenians have had a tight relationship with Russia. But those ties have come under strain over the past year and a half as Russia, bogged down in Ukraine, has largely stood aside as its Armenian ally faces ever increasing pressure from Azerbaijan.

Over the past two weeks, that strain has neared a breaking point as the Armenian government under Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian has made several demonstrative moves criticizing and distancing itself from Russia. To top it off, Yerevan announced that it would be hosting U.S. soldiers for an unprecedented joint military exercise, which started on September 11.

"Pashinian Changing Country's Politics To Align With West," read one headline in the Russian state news agency TASS. That kind of speculation has led senior officials from both Armenia and Russia to deny that Yerevan is moving toward membership in NATO.

While a full turn to the West is not in the cards, analysts say, Armenia is making a concerted effort to diversify its foreign policy away from its previous strong dependence on Russia. And it is accelerating that effort just as its own security situation is as precarious as ever, and its need for external support acute.

Over the last two weeks, Armenia has sent a series of loud signals about its relationship with Russia that, analysts say, appear to be calculated to draw international attention. Yerevan sent a package of humanitarian aid to Ukraine, which was delivered personally by Pashinian's wife, Anna Hakobian. That earned her a friendly photo op with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Moscow's enemy No. 1.

It was a dramatic -- albeit symbolic -- departure for Yerevan. Armenia has hitherto tried to keep a low profile in the Russia-Ukraine war, neither criticizing Russia's invasion nor supporting it. Russia's Foreign Ministry responded to Hakobian's trip by calling in Armenia's ambassador to Moscow for consultations and accusing the country of aiding "the Nazi Kyiv regime."

At the same time, there have been a series of sharp criticisms of Russia from top Armenian officials. Pashinian gave an interview to an Italian newspaper in which he said dependence on Russia was a "strategic mistake." The speaker of Armenia's parliament, Alen Simonian, got into a war of words with Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, which culminated in him dismissing her as "some secretary in some department."

Simonian also said that Armenia was likely to ratify the Rome Statute, a 1998 treaty that went into force four years later, establishing the International Criminal Court. Ratifying the statute would mean Armenia is obliged to arrest Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is wanted by The Hague-based court. Simonian had earlier suggested that ratification was not a priority for Armenia.

"Each of these small steps would have been enough to create some scandal in Armenia-Russia relations, but taken all together, they create the impression that this is more serious than anything [that] has happened before," said Mikayel Zolian, a political analyst based in Yerevan.

Armenia's recent moves are indicative of "an attempt to restore [its] independent foreign policy," Zolian told RFE/RL. But, he added: "I don't think this means that Armenia is going to become kind of a Western proxy, or that that's what we want."

Armenians Feel Let Down By Moscow

Armenians have had close relations with Russia since the early days of the Russian Empire's expansion into the Caucasus more than two centuries ago. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia has been Armenia's main security guarantor: Moscow maintains a military base with several thousand troops in Gyumri, close to the Turkish border, and Russian border forces guard Armenia's frontiers with Turkey and Iran.

Armenia is a member of the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a mutual-defense pact. And since the end of the 2020 Second Karabakh War, a 2,000-strong Russian peacekeeping contingent has been deployed to Nagorno-Karabakh, the Armenian-controlled breakaway region that is at the heart of Armenia's conflict with Azerbaijan.

But since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Armenians have felt let down by their ally. The Russian peacekeepers have proven unable or unwilling to push back against repeated Azerbaijani efforts to take new territory or improve their positions. Azerbaijan has also launched repeated offensives into Armenia itself, and the CSTO has failed to respond to Armenian requests for intervention. In this context, Zolian said that "basically, Armenia has nothing to lose" by moving away from Russia.

Yerevan has been diversifying its foreign policy in several directions. It has been actively cultivating India as a new source of weapons after shipments from Russia, its traditional supplier, dried up following the start of the Ukraine war. Armenia is also nurturing its relationship with its neighbor to the south, Iran, which has suggested that it would defend Armenian territory against a potential Azerbaijani attack.

And most conspicuously, it has boosted ties with Western countries as well. It has welcomed European Union border monitors, as the EU has taken a leading role in negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan to resolve their conflict. Yerevan hired a former NATO secretary-general, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, as a lobbyist; in that role, Rasmussen has advocated for American security guarantees and European military aid.

While relationships with Iran and India do not alarm Moscow, ties with Western countries are more sensitive.

"In Russia, it is highly likely that it will be perceived as Armenia going over to the West. Whatever Armenia does, if it's not pro-Russian, then Russia sees it as pro-Western and anti-Russian," analyst Zolian said.

Publicly, Russia has for the most part responded coolly. Russian President Vladimir Putin said on September 12 that his country has "no problems with Armenia." There are also signs of increasing discontent in Moscow.

"Yerevan's motivations need to be assessed and explained and articulated by the Armenian side, not by us," Zakharova said the next day. Listing several of the anti-Russian statements Armenian officials have been making, she added: "We assess these steps as unfriendly, and we have discussed them with our Armenian colleagues, partners, friends in bilateral channels, but now it's reached the stage of speaking about this publicly because there keep being more and more questions."

Military Drills Amount To 'A Message'

Amid the anti-Russian rhetorical campaign, Washington and Yerevan announced that they would be holding joint military drills in Armenia. The Eagle Partner 2023 exercise currently under way at the Zar and Armavir training facilities near Yerevan is expected to wind up on September 20.

The exercise itself is not of much significance from a military perspective: The drills are oriented toward peacekeeping missions and involve just 85 U.S. troops. But analysts say they amount to a clear signal, in particular considering that Armenia refused earlier this year to take part in CSTO exercises.

The drills amount to "a message to both Baku and Moscow that Armenia has more options and is being courted by friends," said Richard Giragosian, head of the Yerevan-based Regional Studies Center think tank. The timing is likely a coincidence; exercises like this are typically planned months or more in advance. (The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan referred questions about the military exercise to the Armenian Defense Ministry, which did not respond to requests for comment.)

Nevertheless, as the date of the exercise approached, the planners were surely aware of the fraught geopolitical moment but decided to proceed as planned, said Bob Hamilton, a former American defense attache in the Caucasus and now a research professor at the U.S. Army War College in the state of Pennsylvania.

"Probably a large part of that was: We don't want to be seen as backing out of an exercise because the Russians are upset about it," Hamilton said. He compared it to "freedom of navigation" exercises, in which naval vessels sail in international waters simply to demonstrate that they have the right to do so.

Still, the United States' security interests in Armenia are limited, Hamilton said.

"I don't think we're trying to send some message that the U.S. is now stepping in as a major military partner for Armenia, because that's just not true," he said. "We don't really have interests in Armenia that would justify a major military partnership."

To some analysts, the messages Armenia has been sending to Moscow have been gratuitous.

"I have a feeling there is no strategy at all, it's more reactions to actions from Azerbaijan, from the West, from Russia," said Benyamin Poghosian, a senior fellow on foreign policy at the Yerevan-based think tank APRI Armenia. But what is clear is that since the beginning of September, "for whatever reasons, the government decided to take steps to irritate Russia," he said.

"It looks like Pashinian believes that to make better relations with the West he should do something that irritates Russia," agreed Nikolai Silaev, a foreign policy analyst at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations. "So, in Russia's eyes, it looks like a shift to the West. Of course, one needs virtuoso diplomacy to diversify partnerships in the conditions Armenia is in, and Pashinian isn't a very good diplomat. Yet what he does looks like not mere diplomatic mistakes but rather like a deliberate decision."

The strategy may be to create the impression of a pro-Western orientation in order to rally support against Azerbaijan, Zolian said. Armenians have been alarmed by reports of troop movements by Azerbaijani forces toward the border, new arms shipments from Israel, and increasingly impatient rhetoric from Baku.

"For a long time, Armenia was perceived as an ally of Russia, and that was used by Azerbaijan and Turkey to justify the use of force and whatever they were doing," he said. "So, I think now, this is a message meant for the West and for Azerbaijan to show that we are on the side of the West and any attack against Armenia would be an attack on a potential ally of the West or on somebody who is trying to get out of the Russian sphere of influence."

'No Alternative'

While the need for external support is rising, Russia's neglect over the last months suggests that "there's basically no alternative" but to court the West, Zolian said.

"But I think it's more possible that Pashinian has received some messages from the West, which have encouraged him to be more bold when it comes to relations with the Russians," he said.

It remains a risky strategy, though: "Even if there have been some messages from the West, it doesn't mean that the West will necessarily follow through with whatever is promised. So, it is a very dangerous time for Armenia and for Karabakh too," Zolian said.

If Russia perceives that Armenia is drifting too far, it has several levers on which it can still exert pressure on Armenia. Yerevan is heavily reliant on remittances from migrant workers in Russia, a channel that Moscow could interfere with if it chose to. Armenia gets nearly all of its natural gas from Russia. And the Russian peacekeepers in Nagorno-Karabakh are still carrying out a critical security role there.

"To get rid of the Russians would be probably even worse than keeping Russians there," Zolian said.

Still, it's not clear that Russia is willing to take such dramatic steps.

"As Armenia has been consistently standing up to Russia, there's never been a response from Russia beyond words.... The Armenian government is careful enough to push the envelope but not go over the line," Giragosian said.

Silaev agrees.

"I don't expect Russia to activate these levers," he said. "Russia's approach is that we are committed to the alliance with Armenia, and it is not Moscow who worsens the relations. It seems that Pashinian wants to make Russia responsible for all Armenia's failures and misfortunes, so why should the Russian government give him additional arguments for that by putting pressure on the Armenian people? Words are enough."

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-pashinian- united-states-west-relations-russia-analysis/32591327.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Armenia Says Baku Has Sent New Peace Proposals Amid Lingering Disputes Over Karabakh Aid

By RFE/RL's Armenian Service, RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service September 13, 2023

Armenia's foreign minister on September 13 said his country has received "new proposals" on a potential peace deal from bitter rival Baku, hours after his Azerbaijani counterpart said Baku was prepared to allow the Red Cross to transport humanitarian aid into Nagorno-Karabakh on a regular basis.

"We sent our proposals to Azerbaijan," Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan told the Caucasus nation's parliament. "Literally, yesterday we received new proposals from the Azerbaijani side. There is a process. There is a discussion."

He cautioned, however, that "unfortunately, there are essential issues where the positions of the parties are still quite far from each other."

Mirzoyan did not provide details on the potential proposals by either side and Baku did not immediately comment on the report.

Separately, Russia's TASS news agency quoted Mirzoyan as saying the leaders of the two countries planned to meet in next month in Spain, although it wasn't immediately clear if an actual meeting has been set up or if he was referring to a previous proposal by European Council President Charles Michel.

Hours earlier, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Ceyhun Bayramov said Baku was prepared to allow the Red Cross to transport humanitarian aid into Nagorno-Karabakh region on a regular basis, but he accused the Armenia-backed breakaway region's de facto leaders of blocking access.

Bayramov told reporters at UN headquarters in Geneva that he had held talks with the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in the Swiss city and reached agreements on cooperation in a bid to ease tensions between Baku and Yerevan.

Armenia has accused Azerbaijan of blocking the Lachin Corridor -- the sole road linking Armenia to mainly ethnic Armenian Nagorno-Karabakh -- since December 2022, while Azerbaijan has insisted that aid trucks should go through Azerbaijani territory to ensure no contraband was being shipped.

"The ICRC is ready. The government of Azerbaijan is ready," Bayramov said, adding that the only problem is what he called the "blocking" of the routes by Nagorno-Karabakh's leaders.

Bayramov's statement comes a day after a Russian truck carrying humanitarian aid arrived in the region via Azerbaijan's territory, the first vehicle to do so in more than three decades.

Four days ago, Nagorno-Karabakh and Azerbaijan announced a deal that would allow aid deliveries to the breakaway region amid warnings from international aid groups of dire shortages of food and medicine in Nagorno-Karabakh.

Nagorno-Karabakh authorities agreed to allow Russian-provided aid to be delivered directly from Azerbaijani territory via the Agdam road, while in return Azerbaijani authorities agreed to allow aid deliveries to the breakaway region through the 6-kilometer-long mountain corridor that hooks up with Armenian territory.

Baku has pressed for its Agdam route to be used for aid deliveries instead of the blocked Lachin Corridor from Armenian territory. Nagorno-Karabakh officials, however, have claimed it is an effort by Baku to control aid shipments and reestablish authority over the region while taking it away from ethnic Armenian leaders.

Nagorno-Karabakh is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan and is currently populated by around 120,000 ethnic Armenians. It broke from Baku's hold in a war as the Soviet Union collapsed and for decades survived with direct support from Armenia thanks to control of a land link, the Lachin Corridor.

A second war in 2020 saw Azerbaijan reconquer territory in and around the mountainous region and Armenia lost control of the corridor, leaving the road policed by Russian peacekeepers until it was blocked last December.

With reporting by APA and AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/azerbaijan-armenia-nagorno- karabakh-humanitarian-aid/32591249.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






The UK calls for collective international action to end the bloodshed in Sudan: UK Statement at the UN Security Council

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council meeting on Sudan.

13 September 2023

Thank you President. I also thank SRSG Perthes and Ms Wosornu for their briefings, and Ms Adil for her powerful story. I also thank the Permanent Representative of Ghana for his report on the work of the 5091 Committee.

I would like to begin by paying tribute to SRSG Perthes, and through him, the UN staff in Sudan and the region for all their work under extremely challenging circumstances. This includes strenuous efforts towards a political solution. Volker Perthes has been a tireless advocate of peace and a true friend of Sudan. We thank him for his service.

President, the conflict is now entering its sixth month. During that time, neither the Sudanese Armed Forces [SAF] nor the Rapid Support Forces [RSF] have acted in the interests of the Sudanese people.

In urban areas, civilians are trapped without access to food, water, or basic services due to continued aerial bombardments, largely, as we have heard, by the SAF.

While in Darfur, reports of widespread sexual violence, ethnically motivated killings, forced recruitment of child soldiers and the burning of villages by the RSF and its allied militia are truly abhorrent.

President, the bloodshed needs to end. We call on the SAF and RSF to negotiate in good faith in the interests of the people of Sudan.

The rich tapestry of Sudan's civilian groups, supported by its neighbours and the UN, can play a vital role in support of the aspirations of the Sudanese people for a better future.

And we need collective international action to help end the violence, secure humanitarian access and establish a credible political process. In this regard, we support a leading role for regional actors, including IGAD [Intergovernmental Authority on Development], the AU [African Union] and Sudan's neighbours.

Mr. President, the United Kingdom remains committed to the Sudanese people. We will continue to work with our international partners to ensure that those responsible for this brutal conflict are held to account.

Thank you.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Foreign Secretary announces new support for almost 6 million Palestinian refugees

During a visit to Jalazone Refugee Camp in the West Bank, the Foreign Secretary announced a 10 million package of funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency.

13 September 2023

on a visit to Jalazone Refugee Camp in the West Bank, the Foreign Secretary announced new funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) which will provide lifesaving support for Palestinian refugees

a package worth 10 million will contribute to UNRWA's provision of services, including the provision of education to around 543,000 children and health services to 1.9 million Palestinian refugees

the Foreign Secretary warned of a 'humanitarian crisis' facing Palestinian refugees and urges international community to follow UK lead on UNRWA and step up their support

The Foreign Secretary has announced a new package of support for Palestinian refugees in the Middle East.

On a visit to Jalazone Refugee Camp in the West Bank, the Foreign Secretary announced a funding boost of 10 million to UNRWA, the UN body which supports 5.9 million refugees in Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria.

The additional funding will respond to the deepening crisis for Palestinian refugees. The UK's increased annual contribution to UNRWA will support the agency to continue providing education to around 543,000 children a year - half of them girls - and deliver health services to 1.9 million Palestinian refugees in the region. 5.9 million registered Palestinian refugees are covered by the agency's mandate.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:

On my visit to Jalazone refugee camp today, I have seen first-hand the impact of UNRWA's work supporting Palestinian refugees in the West Bank. UK funding is helping to support 5.9 million Palestinian refugees across the region with vital healthcare and education services, and today I've announced a further increase to our contribution. UNRWA is in dire need of additional support to continue its work, so I urge the international community to step up support.

The Foreign Secretary met with UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini during the visit and heard about the financial crisis facing UNRWA. He discussed the important services that UNRWA are delivering in the face of increasing violence and fragility. He also met with students from the UNRWA school in Jalazone Refugee Camp.

Escalations in violence have put increased pressure on Palestinians and UNRWA's essential services. UNRWA is a lifeline for millions of Palestinian refugees in the West Bank, Gaza, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






During his visit to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories this week, the Foreign Secretary met Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh.

13 September 2023

A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson said:

The Foreign Secretary and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh met in Ramallah today.

The Foreign Secretary reassured the Prime Minister that the UK's position on the Occupied Palestinian Territories has not changed. He reiterated the UK's commitment to a two-state solution, based on 1967 borders with Jerusalem as a shared capital.

The Foreign Secretary acknowledged the Prime Minister's concerns about the trajectory of instability in the West Bank, particularly in the context of increased Israeli incursions and the rise of settler violence.

The Foreign Secretary urged the Prime Minister to hold elections as soon as possible, as part of a process of democratic renewal in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Peace our 'most fundamental job', says Guterres

13 September 2023 - Today "peace is under assault" across communities, countries and regions, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Wednesday, underscoring the need for global solidarity and mutual trust.

Mr. Guterres made the appeal at a ceremony commemorating the International Day of Peace, which is observed annually on 21 September.

He emphasized the interconnectedness of peace with the wellbeing of both humanity and the environment and as a way of addressing challenges ranging from poverty and inequality to biodiversity loss.

'Push for peace'

"For people and planet alike, we can  and we must  push for peace," Mr. Guterres said.

Pushing for peace, he continued, encompassed not only preventing conflicts, but also addressing discrimination, supporting sustainable development and expanding opportunities for women and girls.

It also means accelerating the battle against climate change, ending the reliance on fossil fuels and adopting renewable energy.

"Now more than ever, we need global solidarity, collective action, commitment and mutual trust. Let us all pledge to be part of this push for peace."

Two sides of a coin

Dennis Francis, President of the 78th session of the General Assembly, also spoke, reiterating the importance of peace for sustainable development.

"We know that sustainable development - and sustainable peace - are two sides of the same coin, one cannot be realised without the other," he said.

Ahead of next week's annual General Debate, Mr. Francis urged everyone to recommit to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

"Let us recommit to a world where peace and security are a reality for all."

Bell rings out

The ceremony included traditional ringing of the Peace Bell, which was cast in the 1950s from coins and medals donated by people all over the world, including the Pope, as a symbol of hope for peace.

The Bell is rung twice a year: on the first day of spring, at the Vernal Equinox, and on 21 September to commemorate the International Day for Peace.

The Peace Bell also rang on other special occasions, such as on 26 April 2011 to mark 25 years of the devastating Chernobyl accident.

Remembering Dag Hammarskjold

Also on Wednesday, Mr. Guterres paid tribute to former Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjold on the 62nd anniversary of his death.

"Dag Hammarskjold shaped our United Nations in innumerable ways - setting new standards of public service and launching our Organization on its active career as the custodian of world peace," Mr. Guterres said.

"His legacy endures, not as distant memory, but as a living guide for our shared mission.

"He recognized that the United Nations may be imperfect - but he knew it was indispensable. And he summoned us all to reach higher."

Mr. Hammarskjold and others on board were killed in a plane crash, when their chartered DC6 aircraft crashed just after midnight on 17-18 September 1961, near Ndola (then Northern Rhodesia, now Zambia). A sole survivor of the accident succumbed to injuries a few days later.

A panel investigating the crash reported, in 2017, that it "appears plausible" that an external attack or threat may have led to the fatal crash.

The General Assembly in December 2022 decided to continue the search for answers and continue the official probe.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Secretary-General's opening remarks at press conference prior to the 78th session of the UN General Assembly

United Nations Secretary-General

13 September 2023

Dear members of the media, it is a pleasure to be with you again. Now that you are preparing for the High-level week of the General Assembly, allow me to begin with the very sad news and tragic developments in North Africa.

I want to express my deepest condolences and my full solidarity with all those affected by the devastating earthquake in Morocco and the massive floods in Libya.

These heart-wrenching disasters have claimed thousands of lives and affected countless families and communities.

The United Nations is mobilizing to support relief efforts and we will work in any and every way we can with partners to help get emergency assistance to those who so desperately need it.

In recent days, I have attended a number of gatherings of various groupings of world leaders.

In Nairobi, to focus on climate solutions in Africa.

In Jakarta, to strengthen our partnership with Southeast Asian nations.

In New Delhi, for a summit of G-20 leaders.

And tomorrow in Havana, to meet with leaders of the G-77 and China.

But next week begins the greatest G of all - the G-193 - the High-Level Week of the General Assembly.

It is a one-of-a-kind moment each year for leaders from every corner of the globe to not only assess the state of the world - but to act for the common good.

Action is what the world needs now.

We will be gathering at a time when humanity faces huge challenges - from the worsening climate emergency to escalating conflicts, the global cost-of-living crisis, soaring inequalities and dramatic technological disruptions.

People are looking to their leaders for a way out of this mess.

Yet in the face of all this and more, geopolitical divisions are undermining our capacity to respond.

A multipolar world is emerging.

Multipolarity can be a factor of equilibrium.

But it can also lead to escalating tensions, fragmentation and worse.

So, to bring our multipolar world together, we need strong, reformed multilateral institutions, anchored in the United Nations Charter and international law.

Today's multilateral institutions that were created after the Second World War reflect the power and economic dynamics of that time, and so, they need reform.

I know reform is fundamentally about power - and there are obviously many competing interests and agendas in our increasingly multipolar world.

But at a time when our challenges are more connected than ever, the outcome of a zero-sum game is that everyone gets zero.

I will go into further detail in my address to the General Assembly on Tuesday.

In addition, next week we will also shine a spotlight on how to rescue the Sustainable Development Goals at the half-way mark to 2030.

On how to boost ambition to tackle the climate crisis.

On crucial questions of funding and investments for development.

On health challenges, hotspots and a host of other issues.

My appeal to world leaders will be clear:

This is not a time for posturing or positioning.

This is not a time for indifference or indecision.

This is a time to come together for real, practical solutions.

It is time for compromise for a better tomorrow.

Politics is compromise.

Diplomacy is compromise.

Effective leadership is compromise.

If we want a future of peace and prosperity based on equity and solidarity, leaders have a special responsibility to achieve compromise in designing our common future for our common good.

Next week here in New York is the place to start.





NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






US Navy and Royal Brunei Armed Forces Commence CARAT Brunei 2023

US Navy

13 September 2023

From Lt.j.g. Rebecca Moore

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Brunei -- The United States Navy and Royal Brunei Armed Forces began the annual Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Brunei exercise Sep. 12, which will focus on advancing interoperability to address shared maritime security challenges and maintain peace and stability in the region.

U.S. assets participating in CARAT Brunei includes staff from U.S. 7th Fleet, Commander, Task Force (CTF) 76/3, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area, Patrol and Reconnaissance Squadron SIXTEEN (VP-16) and U.S. Embassy Brunei. The exercise focuses on innovative naval capabilities and features cooperative evolutions that highlight the ability of Brunei and the U.S. to collaborate on common goals maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Coast Guard national security cutter USCGC Munro (WMSL 755) will take part in the exercise while on her rotational deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

"Military-to-military ties are the cornerstone of the U.S.-Brunei relationship, and CARAT remains one of our most important annual exercises," said U.S. Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Her Excellency Caryn R. McClelland. "It's particularly fitting that the U.S. Coast Guard will join CARAT this year as the U.S. continues to support Brunei in increasing their Maritime Security and Maritime Domain Awareness,"

The exercise includes a variety of symposia and hands-on training ashore and at sea including humanitarian assistance and disaster response scenarios, underwater medical tactics, and maritime security operations.

"CARAT Brunei is a highlight to the robust training DESRON 7 coordinates throughout the year in 7th Fleet. Our strong partnership is based on our many shared regional priorities and consistent collaboration," said Capt. Sean Lewis, commanding officer, DESRON 7. "Brunei was one of our original CARAT partners when the exercise series began in 1995. Our partnership and coordination are even stronger today and it shows in the highly professional in-depth training that we are seeing this week."

This year, training will also include aviation training involving maritime patrol reconnaissance aircraft (MPRA). MPRA provide a unit the ability to patrol and monitor their exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and assist in search and rescue (SAR) missions. During CARAT, VP-16 will work with the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) to enhance interoperability and tactics related to maritime domain awareness. These events further strengthen the growing relationship we have with Brunei and allow for our collective armed forces to grow together.

"CARAT Brunei is a unique opportunity to strengthen our relationship with

the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and to exchange knowledge and ideas on how to protect the maritime community," said Lt. Elizabeth Millward, the detachment officer in charge of the P-8A aircrew while in Brunei. "We're excited to support and be a part of this bilateral exercise."

As the U.S. Navy's forward-deployed DESRON in Southeast Asia, DESRON 7 serves as the primary tactical and operational commander of littoral combat ships rotationally deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility, functions as Expeditionary Strike Group 7's Sea Combat Commander and builds partnerships through training and exercises and military-to military engagements.

U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






USS Benfold Returns to Yokosuka

US Navy

13 September 2023

From Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin Stack

YOKOSUKA, Japan -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) returned to Yokosuka, Japan, from patrol on Aug. 31.

During the patrol, USS Benfold conducted a wide range of operations, including maritime patrols and joint exercises with allied forces, including exercise Noble Chinook with the Royal Canadian Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.

Benfold's presence in the region demonstrated United States' commitment to operating with allies and partners to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.

"The professionalism and dedication of the USS Benfold's crew have been exemplary throughout this deployment," said Cmdr. Jonathan Hightower, commanding officer of Benfold. "They have showcased the highest standards of naval service."

Benfold is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy's largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet's principal surface force.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






US Envoy: Taliban Kill 8 Key Islamic State Leaders in Afghanistan

By Ayaz Gul September 13, 2023

The Taliban's "successful" offensive against the Islamic State branch in Afghanistan, IS-Khorasan, has "significantly degraded" its capability and steadily decreased large-scale attacks against civilians, according to a senior US envoy.

Tom West, the U.S. special representative for Afghanistan, shared the assessment during a Tuesday seminar at the nonpartisan Stimson Center think tank in Washington.

"They have a very aggressive violent offensive ongoing that has significantly degraded ISKP capability," West said, using an acronym for IS-Khorasan. "I think it's notable that since early 2023, Taliban raids in Afghanistan have removed at least eight key ISKP leaders, some responsible for external plotting."

West said the counterterrorism actions had led to a "steady decrease" in attacks against Afghan civilians.

"There were horrific attacks largely against the Hazara population, but we have not seen a return to those sorts of attacks since then," he added.

But the American envoy warned the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, TTP, "is posing the greatest threat" to regional stability. "We see a very significant increase in (TTP) attacks directed at Pakistan," West said.

The militant group, also known as the Pakistani Taliban, is listed as a global terrorist organization by the United States. It is waging terrorist attacks in neighboring Pakistan and operating out of Afghanistan sanctuaries.

Pakistani officials say TTP has intensified cross-border attacks since the Taliban returned to power in Kabul two years ago. The violence has become a daily routine and has reportedly killed more than 1,500 Pakistanis, including civilians and security forces, mostly in districts near or on the Afghan border.

The TTP leadership has publicly pledged allegiance to Hibatullah Akhundzada, the reclusive supreme leader of the Afghan Taliban. The militant group emerged in Pakistani border areas in 2007 and fought alongside the Taliban against the U.S.-led NATO troops in Afghanistan.

"They became allies of the Taliban during the war. They were financial supporters, logistical supporters, and operational allies as well. I think the ties between them are quite tight," West said.

The U.S. envoy declined to comment on Pakistani allegations that TTP attacks are taking place with the approval of Afghanistan's Taliban authorities.

"As far as whether the Taliban are supporting TTP attacks against Pakistan, that's a tough one and probably gets beyond what I am able to talk about publicly. It's no secret that this is the issue that dominates Pakistan's engagement with the Taliban at the moment," West stated.

The Taliban reject allegations they are allowing any group, including TTP, to use Afghan soil to threaten the security of Pakistan or the region at large.

For their part, officials in Islamabad say they have formally shared evidence with Kabul about the presence of TTP leaders and fighters in Afghanistan and their use of the country to launch terrorist attacks against Pakistan.

The tensions over rising terrorism were partly behind Pakistan's decision to shut the main border crossing with landlocked Afghanistan a week ago.

The busy Torkham transit point for trade and travelers remains closed, stranding hundreds of trucks carrying commercial goods and thousands of passengers on both sides and deteriorating relations between the two countries.

West also noted at Tuesday's seminar that al-Qaida was at its "historical nadir" in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

"Their ability to threaten the U.S. from Afghanistan and Pakistan is probably at its lowest point since the group relocated to Afghanistan from Sudan in 1996."

The United States and its allies withdrew all their forces from Afghanistan in August 2021, just days after the then-Taliban insurgents took control of the country from a U.S.-backed government in Kabul. The foreign troop departure ended nearly two decades of U.S. involvement in the Afghan war.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






China Appoints First Ambassador to Afghanistan Since Taliban Return

By Ayaz Gul September 13, 2023

China has sent a new ambassador to Afghanistan, marking the first time a foreign envoy has been appointed at the ambassadorial level since the Taliban regained power in Kabul two years ago.

On Wednesday, the Taliban-led foreign ministry said that Prime Minister Mohammad Hassan Akhund had accepted Ambassador Zhao Xing's credentials at a ceremony in the Afghan capital.

Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi joined Akhund in welcoming the Chinese envoy at the presidential place.

Beijing did not immediately signal if Zhao's appointment could lead to formal recognition of the Taliban government.

"This is the normal rotation of China's ambassador to Afghanistan and is intended to continue advancing dialogue and cooperation between China and Afghanistan," the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement. "China's policy towards Afghanistan is clear and consistent."

No government has formally recognized the Taliban since they seized power from a U.S.-backed government in August 2021 when all American-led NATO troops withdrew after nearly 20 years of involvement in the Afghan war.

The international community has been calling on the fundamentalist Afghan authorities to ease restrictions on women's access to education and work before accepting them as the country's legitimate government.

Muttaqi's office quoted him as telling the Chinese ambassador that his appointment is a "significant step, carrying a significant message."

Zhao's predecessor, Wang Yu, assumed the role in 2019 and completed his term last month.

"China respects Afghanistan's national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity and will never interfere in Afghanistan's internal affairs," the Taliban statement quoted Zhao as telling Muttaqi. It said the Chinese envoy praised the "significant economic progress and improved security" Afghanistan has made in the last two years.

About two dozen countries currently have their embassies in Kabul, run by their senior diplomats using the title "charge d'affaires," which does not require presenting ambassadorial credentials to the host government.

India, Iran, Pakistan, Qatar, Russia, the United Arab Emirates and Uzbekistan are among the countries that have kept or reopened their diplomatic missions in Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover.

According to diplomatic sources in Kabul, several ambassadors appointed during the now-defunct Afghan government have stayed in Kabul, and some of them are close to finishing their terms.

Analysts say China's security concerns are driving its increased diplomatic engagement with the Taliban to prevent the conflict-torn country from sliding into chaos again, which could encourage anti-China militants to use Afghan soil as a launching pad for attacks against Chinese interests.

Beijing has taken steps to help the Taliban stabilize the Afghan economy and deal with a dire humanitarian crisis. Western nations suspended all financial aid and imposed economic sanctions on the new Kabul rulers after departing the country. Chinese investors have signed significant agreements with Kabul in the Afghan mining and oil sectors.

Skeptics question the viability of these contracts, citing international banking and financial sanctions.

"We don't see Afghanistan as an area for geopolitical competition," Tom West, the U.S. special representative for the country, told a Tuesday seminar in Washington when asked how the United States would look at a potential increase in Chinese investment in the South Asian nation.

"I have no objection to a greater Chinese intervention, and I also don't forecast that one will be forthcoming," West said.

Critics say China is not an advocate of the Taliban's religious government because it could cause radicalism to flourish in the region.

"China is interested in Afghanistan's security and the potential development of terror groups in its immediate neighborhood," said Torek Farhadi, a senior regional analyst and former Afghan official. "This is why next to the new ambassador, the Chinese military attache is seated," he said, referring to the photo the Taliban official released after the meeting with Zhao.

"China is making very modest investments in Afghanistan, just to keep open access with the Taliban, but it is not willing to accept a Taliban ambassador-level representative in Beijing. For that, the Chinese have already asked the Taliban to modernize their government," Farhadi said.

Some information for this report came from Reuters.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Taliban Press for Extraction of Copper Despite Worries About Mes Aynak Historical Site

By Roshan Noorzai September 13, 2023

The Taliban government has been pressing for the extraction of copper from Afghanistan's Mes Aynak mine as an additional revenue source, but the mine is located at an ancient historical site, which worries some archaeologists.

The mine is more than 40 kilometers southeast of Kabul in the Logar province. The area is considered one of the largest untapped copper mines in the world, with deposits worth at least $50 billion.

The Mes Aynak mine is at the site of an ancient Buddhist city of the same name along the Silk Road. Structures and artifacts uncovered at the site lead archeologists to believe that 2,000 years ago, the residents mined copper, with evidence of ancient smelting workshops.

But the Taliban are eager for the mine to start operating to offset international sanctions, observers say. The Taliban are "in need of money," Azarakhsh Hafizi, an economist and former head of the international relations committee at Afghanistan's Chamber of Commerce and Industries, told VOA.

Afghanistan has been dependent on international aid since the 1920s when development and modernization started in the country, Hafizi said, but now that international funding is cut off, the Taliban are looking for new revenue sources.

"Afghanistan's export was worth $2 billion in the past year, which mainly came from the minerals," Hafizi said.

The artifacts hurdle

During a recent visit to Afghanistan by an official from the Metallurgical Corporation of China, the Taliban minister for mines and petroleum, Shahabuddin Delawar, described the project as "important and vital," and said the extraction of the mine's copper is "one of the top priorities" for the Taliban.

The Taliban are "committed to beginning the work on the project as soon as possible so jobs can be created for the people," the Pajhwok News Agency, an independent news outlet, reported Delawar saying last month.

The MCC official told the Taliban the "presence and relocation" of the historical objects at the site is the main hurdle in the exploitation of the mine, according to Pajhwok and a post by the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum of the Taliban on X, the platform formerly called Twitter.

The Taliban said they formed a committee to work on the relocation of the artifacts. However, concerns remain about the preservation of the historical site.

"It is impossible," said Noor Agha Noori, the former director of Afghanistan's Institute of Archaeology, adding that "It is an ancient city; how can the city be moved and relocated? ... It has its own structures, walls, graveyard and water system."

Noori told VOA that the objects discovered in the site belong to the Buddhist era from the 1st to 7th century, but "there are signs that show some of the artifacts can go back 1500 BC."

"Archaeologists would need decades to discover all the artifacts," he added.

Noori and other archeologists are concerned about the proper protection of the artifacts because when the Taliban were in power in 2001, they blew up two giant Buddha statues in the central Bamiyan province and destroyed many statues and artifacts in the Kabul Museum.

Noori said 15 years ago when the contract to extract the mine was signed, only a preliminary survey was conducted, and "it was not clear that there would be many historical artifacts or an ancient city."

In 2007, the former Afghan government signed a $3 billion contract with a Chinese consortium, consisting of MCC and the Jiangxi Copper Corporation, to extract the Mes Aynak copper.

In addition to paying royalties to the Afghan government, the contract stipulated that the Chinese consortium needed infrastructure, including a railway and a power plant.

But the work never started because of security issues in the province and the discovery of the artifacts.

Mes Aynak recommendations

Noori said that based on a survey by national and international archaeologists conducted over years, some recommendations were made to the former government to bring changes to the contract to preserve the site while paving the way for the extraction of the copper.

"We recommended that the central part of the mine should be extracted via underground mining to preserve the ancient city. In the western part, there were not that many artifacts so it can be extracted from an open pit," Noori said.

He added that in the case of open-pit extraction, "about 50% of the artifacts could get destroyed."

The Chinese company prefers open-pit extraction of the mine, said Ainuddin Sadaqat, the Afghanistan National Museum's chief curator.

He told VOA the recommendations to do underground extraction were shared with the Chinese officials in a meeting last year, but the company's delegation said that "it was costly."

Sadaqat said government agencies and some NGOs that are working to protect the historical site are preparing for the relocation of the artifacts.

"The preliminary work is underway, but it is still not clear when the relocation of the historical artifacts would take place," he added.

Sadaqat said while many of the smaller artifacts, such as jewelry and dishes, have already been transported to the National Museum, the larger objects are going to be moved to a local museum in the area.

Taliban response

In the past two years, the Taliban government has taken steps to protect the historical sites, Mohammad Hasib Nasimi, Director of Preservation and Restoration of Historical Monuments in the Ministry of Information and Culture of Afghanistan, told VOA.

"There are positive changes. We have been working on the restoration and protection of the historical sites," Nasimi added.

Haroon Hakimi from VOA's Afghan Service contributed to this report, which originated in VOA's Afghan Service.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UN's Sudan Envoy Steps Down After Difficulties With Government

By Margaret Besheer September 13, 2023

The United Nations' top envoy in Sudan is stepping down, four months after being told by the government to leave. In parting remarks, he criticized Sudan's military and the rebel Rapid Support Forces, or RSF.

"This conflict is leaving a tragic legacy of human rights abuses," Volker Perthes told a Security Council meeting on Wednesday. "Indiscriminate attacks against civilians committed by the warring parties constitute gross violations of human rights."

The United Nations says at least 5,000 people have been killed and more than 12,000 injured since fighting erupted between rival generals on April 15. More than 5 million Sudanese are now displaced  more than a million of them as refugees in neighboring countries.

Of particular concern is escalating ethnically targeted fighting in the Darfur region. The region saw wide-scale ethnic violence and crimes against humanity in the early 2000s, and the U.N. fears a repeat now.

Perthes said hundreds of ethnic Masalit have been killed in El Geneina and other parts of West Darfur. The U.N. has also received credible information about the existence of at least 13 mass graves in El Geneina and the surrounding areas. RSF and their allied Arab militias have been attacking civilians in this region.

The envoy said there is "little doubt about who is responsible for what" in the conflict.

"Often indiscriminate aerial bombing is conducted by those who have an air force, which is the Sudan Armed Forces," Perthes said. "Most of the sexual violence, lootings and killings happen in areas controlled by the RSF and are conducted or tolerated by the RSF and their allies."

Perthes said both sides are arbitrarily arresting, detaining and even torturing and executing civilians.

"We need to impress on the warring parties that they cannot operate with impunity, and there will be accountability for the crimes committed," he said.

A group of Security Council diplomats issued a statement expressing alarm about the rampant use of sexual violence in the conflict.

"Reports of rape, including gang rape, sexual slavery, abduction, and sexual harassment have been prominent throughout the conflict," it said. "Women and girls, particularly in the Darfur region, are subjected to horrifying acts of sexual [violence] and reports of gender-based violence as a tactic of war to instill fear and control in the population and assert dominance over local communities."

The diplomats urged the warring parties to stop such violence and uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law.

The United States issued its own call late Wednesday for the warring sides to "end this brutal conflict," saying the people of Sudan "deserve freedom, peace, and justice."

"Both parties have instigated unrelenting violence that has caused death and destruction across Sudan," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement. "As we have said before, both parties must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law, including obligations related to the protection of civilians."

No peace in sight

Efforts to halt the fighting have so far failed, despite regional efforts by the African Union and the east African regional bloc IGAD, as well as the United States, European Union, Saudi Arabia and some of Sudan's neighbors.

When asked about the situation by VOA at a news conference on Wednesday, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the best way to solve Africa's problems is with African solutions.

"Unfortunately, we are witnessing a never-ending series of terrible fighting with dramatic impacts on civilian population, and this is absolutely intolerable," he said. "I think that the international community must come together to tell those that are leading the fight in Sudan that they need to stop. Because what they are doing is not only the destruction of their own country but is a serious threat to regional peace and security."

In the meantime, the humanitarian crisis is rapidly worsening: displacement at the rate of a million persons per month, a collapsing health care system and growing hunger.

The United Nations warns that 6 million Sudanese are on the brink of famine.

"If the fighting continues, this potential tragedy comes closer to reality every day," Edem Wosornu, head of the operations and advocacy at the U.N.'s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, told council members.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UN's FAO Unveils Emergency Plan to Assist 10 Million Sudanese Amid War

By Mohammed Yusuf September 13, 2023

The United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization, FAO, has launched a plan to assist at least 10 million Sudanese farmers, herders and fishermen across 17 states. The 12-month program aims to address the threat of food insecurity in the country, which has been exacerbated by a five-month-old armed conflict.

The FAO will add to recent seed distribution efforts to enhance food production, with the hope of feeding 13 to 19 million people in coming months.

Abdulhakim Elwaer, FAO regional representative for the Near East and North Africa, said the Emergency Livelihood Response Plan is designed to combat hunger and poverty in Sudan.

"The ELRP aims to mitigate the impact of the recent conflict on vulnerable people, address their immediate needs, and enhance their ability to recover and strengthen their resilience, besides achieving food security at its minimum level for the overall population," Elwaer said. "Agriculture remains a lifeline in Sudan."

Sudan plunged into conflict in April, sparked by a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces.

The conflict has killed thousands of people, displaced millions, and prompted millions more to seek refuge in neighboring countries in search of food, medicine and shelter.

Mohamed Abdulrahman, a farmer in Sudan's Upper Nile State, expressed optimism about the assistance.

"I think this will help us and others be encouraged to look for and seek such kind of help and organize themselves," he said. "But the condition is demanding; seriously, the Sudanese people need help from the international community because they lost their government."

Aid agencies say during Sudan's dry season, which runs from November to May, farmers reliant on rainfall face food shortages, while livestock owners are faced with water and pasture shortages, leading to threatened livelihoods.

According to Integrated Food Security Phase (IPC) projections published last month, more than 20.3 million Sudanese are food insecure, with six million suffering from emergency levels of acute hunger.

Abdulrahman said that Sudanese farmers use seeds to produce food, but also require so much more.

"I don't think that's enough because the farmers need more than the seeds," he said. "They need money to make the preparations. They need money to continue with other agricultural activities."

The FAO said that much of the support for the vulnerable farming and herding households will be delivered through cash assistance and livelihood input packages, including seeds and agricultural, animal and fishing tools.

Elwaer said the successful execution of their plan could prevent a humanitarian crisis and famine in Sudan.

"FAO does not supply food directly to individuals, but supplies seeds and agricultural inputs to farmers who are actually food producers to thousands of people," he said. "So if we reach out to 1.5 million farmers in Sudan in 14 states, we are literally providing food supplies, mainly vegetables and fruits and seeds like corn and wheat, for the large population of Sudan by the next harvest season, which will mitigate the situation and the crisis to a large extent."

The agricultural agency said it needs $123 million to achieve its goals, with the program expected to end in August 2024.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Analysts: Cambodia's New Government to Maintain Close Ties With China

By Sun Narin September 13, 2023

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet will seek to strengthen ties with China when he visits Beijing later this week, analysts said.

Hun Manet will make an official visit to China from Sept. 14 to 16, China's Foreign Ministry announced Monday.

The son of Hun Sen, who led the Southeast Asian nation for almost four decades, Hun Manet took office on Aug. 22.

"At the invitation of Premier Li Qiang of the State Council, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun will pay an official visit to China," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said in a statement.

Last week, Hun Manet, a 45-year-old West Point graduate, said Cambodia's new government will maintain an "unchanged stance" on Beijing's "One China" policy, and a "non-interference policy" toward China.

The One China policy views Taiwan as an inalienable part of China. Taiwan, a self-governing island, disputes Beijing's claim to its territory.

In Beijing, Hun Manet is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and hold a meeting with Premier Li Qiang on bilateral and multilateral cooperation, Cambodia's Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Tuesday.

"As Cambodia and China are commemorating the 65th Anniversary of the Diplomatic Relations and the Year of Friendship, this forthcoming visit of Samdech Thipadei HUN Manet is poised to further consolidate the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Cooperation between the two nations," the statement said.

Hun Manet will also participate in the 20th ASEAN-China Expo Sept. 16-17 in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

Mao said China hopes that the visit will "chart the course for the comprehensive strategic cooperation between the two countries in the next stage."

Maintaining close ties with Beijing amid increasing U.S.-China strategic competition is likely to top the agenda during the trip, according to analysts.

"Cambodia-China's alignment on certain foreign policy agendas is sure. When two countries have a strong political and diplomatic tie, they offer mutual supports on certain agendas," Chhay Lim, a visiting fellow at the Center for Southeast Asian Studies at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, wrote in an email to VOA Khmer on Tuesday.

It is clear, he added, that Cambodia supports Beijing's One China policy and regards its stance on Xinjiang, Hong Kong and Taiwan as domestic issues.

"In return, China supports Cambodia's development, despite the West's criticism of [former prime minister] Hun Sen's regime on human rights violations, oppression on political activists, and so on and so forth," Chhay Lim said.

Cambodia is drawing closer to China and their relationship has been elevated to what Beijing calls the Diamond Hexagon cooperation framework.

Established in February, it focuses on six priority areas: political cooperation, production capacity and quality, agriculture, energy, security, and people-to-people exchanges, according to China's state media outlet, Xinhua.

Cambodia has long supported China, including at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, in return for receiving significant investments, loans and grants from China to build infrastructure, according to analysts.

Cambodia decided not to join ASEAN's first joint military drills this month, proposed by Indonesia, current chair of the bloc, which aims to exercise in the contested South China Sea much of which China claims as its own.

"Cambodia doesn't want to participate [in the drills] because Cambodia doesn't want to have strife with China," Em Sovannara, a political science professor in Phnom Penh, told VOA Khmer on Wednesday.

As chair of ASEAN in 2012, Cambodia was criticized for blocking a joint communique on the South China Sea because Cambodia defended China's position on the disputed waters.

Last week, ASEAN  a bloc of 10 Southeast Asian nations that operates on the principle of consensus and noninterference of sovereignty  remained divided over how to deal with China's aggressive behavior in the disputed waters.

Yulius Hermawan, a lecturer on international relations at Parahyangan Catholic University in Bandung, Indonesia, told VOA Khmer in an email it is worrying that ASEAN leaders failed to show a united response to China, which "may reflect a high degree of China's ability to steer ASEAN as a regional bloc."

Among ASEAN member states, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei are official claimants against China.

They failed to bring the other six members  Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Singapore and Thailand  on board to address the South China Sea disputes in a joint statement at the bloc's annual summit ended last week.

Some speculate Cambodia could seek to engage with Western nations while keeping close ties with China.

Chhay Lim, a Cambodian scholar, said Hun Manet clearly understands the Western perspectives, saying the main question is not whether Cambodia will change its China strategy, but whether Phnom Penh can "formulate strategies to engage with Western nations or to cultivate more friendly relations with them" for potential economic benefits, given that the U.S. and the EU remain its largest export markets.

Additional reporting in Phnom Penh by Han Noy and Sim Chansamnang.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Experts: Thailand's New Government Aims for Balance Amid US-China Rivalry

By Wasamon Audjarint September 13, 2023

Thailand's new civilian coalition government may seek greater engagement with Western democracies even as it continues to maintain ties with China forged by the previous military-led regime, analysts said.

But while the new Pheu Thai government may want to differentiate itself from that of Prayuth Chan-ocha  the general who led the 2014 military coup and was subsequently voted in twice as prime minister by parliament  appearances suggest a pivot away from China is unlikely.

In March, months before the May 14 election, Pheu Thai Party leader Srettha Thavisin, who is now prime minister, said his party would support increased trade and tourism with China. Within days of Srettha's election on August 22, Chinese envoy to Thailand Han Zhiqiang invited Srettha to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, Thai media Matichon reported.

Benjamin Zawacki, author of "Thailand: Shifting Ground between the US and a Rising China," said to VOA Thai in a September 1 email interview, "Perhaps to distinguish itself from those [previous] administrations  and because ideology and ideological consistency have never played a prominent role in Thai foreign policy  the incoming Pheu Thai-led government will more meaningfully engage the U.S. and other democracies."

Greg Raymond, lecturer in Southeast Asian politics and foreign relations at Australian National University, said that as a coalition government, Pheu Thai may be significantly constrained from changing policies set by its predecessor.

Pheu Thai "subscribes to the consensus that steering a middle course between China and the U.S. is the most appropriate policy for Thailand," he told VOA Thai in an email interview on August 30.

Internal politics

Thailand struggled to form a government for more than three months after the May 14 national elections.

The youth-oriented Move Forward Party received the most votes in the May 14 election but its efforts to form a government were thwarted when its leader, U.S.-educated Pita Limjaroenrat, fell 51 votes short of the majority needed from Thailand's bicameral National Assembly to clinch the top job. Pita's campaign promises had included developing a foreign policy less tied to Beijing.

Pheu Thai came in second in the nationwide vote. It ascended to power late last month after forming an unlikely coalition with 10 other parties, including two aligned with the military generals who staged the 2014 coup. Both houses of Parliament vote together for the prime minister under a constitution implemented by the military-controlled government. Longtime observers of Thailand's political scene say the new constitution is designed to protect conservative military-backed rule.

Pheu Thai members now hold the top spots in Thailand's foreign affairs and defense ministries, key policymaking entities. Onetime political activist Suthin Khlangsaeng is defense minister, the rare civilian to hold the post. Former Thailand trade representative Panpree Pahitthanukorn is the foreign minister and a deputy premier.

Suthin is expected to maintain friendly relations with China. From 2014 to 2017, Western nations shunned the new regime's offers to purchase military hardware, and the generals turned to Beijing, Reuters reported. In 2015, Thailand was one of the first countries to buy Chinese naval hardware. In 2017, the two nations signed a billion-dollar deal for the purchase of three submarines, according to Radio Free Asia.

After Thailand's 2019 elections, the U.S. led an effort among Western nations to normalize relations with the kingdom, despite Prayuth's continued military-influenced leadership.

In August 2019, the U.S. State Department approved a possible sale to Thailand of 60 Stryker infantry carrier vehicles with equipment and support at an estimated cost of $175 million, followed by a $137.17 million of sale of eight reconnaissance helicopters in September, according to Murray Hiebert, a senior associate of the Southeast Asia Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

Panpree, a business-oriented technocrat, told the Thai newspaper Thairath in March that Pheu Thai's foreign policy would focus on promoting a regional digital economy using information technology for creating goods and services in Southeast Asia, ramping up trade negotiations and attracting more foreign investments.

Srettha, who spoke of reviving Thailand's pandemic-busted economy during the campaign, on Monday vowed to move quickly to relieve the country's economic problems in his inaugural speech to parliament. He plans to talk with U.S. President Joe Biden and key businessmen about investment opportunities in Thailand on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York later this month, reported Prachachat.

Chinese investment

Raymond, the Australian National University lecturer, anticipates that the new Thai government will support more Chinese investment in existing projects such as the Eastern Economic Corridor and 5G infrastructure. The corridor includes Rayong, Chonburi, and Chachoengsao provinces, and China has made more than 10% of the project's total foreign investment from 2018 to this year's first quarter as Xinhua reported.

Chinese companies like Huawei and ZTE Corporation are partnering with Thai telecom companies in applying 5G in various industries, as well as launching a 5G hub in Thailand, the Bangkok Post reported.

"Pheu Thai has generally been in favor of increased economic integration with China," he noted.

According to the Board of Investment of Thailand, China last year channeled $2.3 billion to Thailand via industries such as electronics, automotive and data centers. The U.S. companies, meanwhile, invested $1.8 billion in Thailand through 33 projects.

Zawacki also said the new government may give more importance to a high-speed railway project initiated in 2010 with a construction agreement signed by the Thai and Chinese governments in 2014. The project, a line connecting Bangkok to Kunming in China via Laos, is worth $5.4 billion, AFP reported.

Progress has been slow. As of now, there is only a $5 billion construction contract for the section connecting Bangkok with Korat, a province in northeast Thailand that is the nation's largest. The line is part of a project that will link high-speed rail in Thailand with a rail line in Laos that is key to China's Belt and Road Initiative in Southeast Asia.

Zawacki said, "Given Pheu Thai's historically close relations with China, its desire to distinguish itself from the Prayuth administrations, and its status in Thailand's Northeast  still strong but in need of reinforcement  it stands to reason that the new government will give the rail greater priority."

This report contains material from The Associated Press.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Background Press Call by a Senior Administration Official to Preview the Bahraini Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa's Visit to the White House

September 13, 2023

2:43 P.M. EDT

MODERATOR: Good afternoon, everyone. Apologies for the slight delay here. Thanks for joining the call. This call will be on background attributable, to a "senior administration official."

For your awareness, not for reporting purposes, on the line is [senior administration official].

As a reminder, the contents of this call are embargoed until tomorrow, September 13th, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern time. Therefore, no content may be published or made public until tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. Eastern time.

With that, [senior administration official], I'll hand it over to you get  to get us started.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Hey, thanks, everybody for joining us today, including those in the Middle East. I know it's very late. I apologize to be 10 minutes late.

I want to provide some details on an important initiative that the administration is launching tomorrow with the Kingdom of Bahrain and describe how we view the significance of His Royal Highness of Bahrain Crown Prince Prime Minister Salman's visit to Washington this week.

Tomorrow, Secretary of State Blinken and the Crown Prince will be signing the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement, which we're calling C-SIPA. And this will be a really significant upgrade in what has been a long-term strategic relationship with Bahrain, one of our longest and closest partners in the  in the broader Middle East region.

During his visit to Washington this week, the Crown Prince will meet with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, with Secretary Blinken, with Secretary Austin, and others. And the focus of their discussions will be on, obviously, C-SIPA and our bilateral relationship, but also broader cooperation in the region and beyond.

They'll discuss a range of regional and global issues. And of course, you'll see readouts from those specific meetings after they conclude.

On this call, I'll focus a bit on C-SIPA and putting the agreement in the context of President Biden's broader vision for a more integrated, secure, prosperous Middle East region, which he first detailed during the Jeddah Summit in July of 2022.

I think if you go back to that  to that address that he made last summer, it kind of lays out a lot of what I think we've been doing since and also what's incorporated into our national security strategy, which came out a couple of months after that visit, and, of course, also summarized in  if you look at Jake Sullivan's keynote address to  to WINEP, a think tank here in town a couple of months ago.

President Biden also reaffirmed  I think you saw the implementation of part of this vision just at the G20 just a few days ago with  with the announcement of what is really a truly transformative project  the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, which connects India to Europe through the Gulf region through Jordan and Israel  and I think emphasizes the role, particularly, of the Gulf region as an economic engine and gateway between continents, enabling goods and services to transit to, from, between India, the Gulf, Jordan, Israel, and Europe and Bahrain.

The focus of this call, of course, stands to benefit significantly from this new economic corridor just given its geography and its existing economic integration with Europe and Middle Eastern economies, including Israel.

So, on C-SIPA specifically, before I take a few questions about it  and we'll  we'll get you a factsheet with details after this call, which I think will be embargoed, unfortunately  but embargoed until after these meetings that take place tomorrow around 2:00 p.m. Eastern.

But I'll just describe the main elements of what is a  this binding international agreement. The text of the agreement will also be posted online once the agreement comes into a force, which will be probably a couple of days after the formal signing.

So, we've been working on this agreement with Bahrain for about a year or so. And it flowed from discussions that began when the Crown Prince last visited Washington last year, including his bilateral meeting, a fairly lengthy and very substantive meeting last year with Vice President Harris.

Since then, multiple senior U.S. officials have traveled to Manama for talks and vice versa. And we've hosted senior Bahraini officials here in Washington over the past year to discuss and to eventually finalize this initiative.

This is a bilateral agreement between the United States and Bahrain. But as you'll see when you see it, it also can serve as  as kind of a cornerstone for broader grouping of countries over time that share our common vision on deterrence, diplomacy, economic and security integration, and de-escalation of conflicts in the Middle East region  a vision for a more prosperous, more integrated, more peaceful, more stable Middle East region.

Some of the key themes I think you'll see are deterrence. The agreement expands (inaudible) security cooperation, mutual intelligence capacity-building, interoperability. DOD had a big role in forging this arrangement. And it kind of formalizes, I think, some of what CENTCOM has been doing in the  in the region for some con-  some time regarding integration of the region's air missile defense systems and so on, which we've talked about before in some detail.

In the economic sphere in trade and investment, we have a free trade agreement with Bahrain. We've had that agreement since 2006. And this agreement will further promote cooperation on trade and investment.

Just last year, for example, Bahrain created a U.S. trade zone where U.S. companies can develop new products, reach untapped markets, adding to supply chain resiliency. And this is the kind of cooperation that we can expect to see more of and we've been working a great deal on throughout the Middle East region.

Some  an area of trusted technology  and I think you'll see this in the agreement and its significance, just given the evolving nature of threats, but also opportunities in the international security environment.



This agreement includes a section on promoting the development and deployment of trusted technologies. That refers to things such as emerging tech, infrastructure, the AI revolution, looking ahead to quantum computing  everything from 5G, telecom, chip exports, et cetera. And this is the first binding international agreement of its kind to promote such cooperation on trusted technologies. So, I think that's a very significant plank of this arrangement.

So, again, I think the visit  we're very pleased to have the Crown Prince in town once again. And I think signing this agreement is really a milestone in the strategic partnership. And when, I think, you see the agreement, it incorporates a lot of what we've been working on here throughout the region in a number of  a number of areas.

And, with that, I'm sure there are a lot of questions, so I'm happy to open it up to questions on this.

MODERATOR: Thank you, [senior administration official]. We're ready to take some questions now.

Q Hi. Thanks, [senior administration official], for doing this. I will start  if you can elaborate a little bit about the defense portion in this agreement  if, for example, Bahrain was attacked by a third country, how the U.S. would assist.

And my second question would be on the initiative you announced in India. Erdogan obviously opposed this economic corridor. And he said that "there is no corridor without Turkey." How do you comment on that?



SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So, on the first, on the defense and security plank of the agreement  again, when it comes out, I think  I think you'll see it. But it's a  it's a very strong  it's a very strong arrangement in which it's the policy of both of us to work together to help deter and confront any external aggression against the territorial integrity of  of any of the parties.

It has some specifics in terms of consultation and what would happen in that event. But it's really designed to further enable what has been a policy of deterrence against threats but also a policy of proactive diplomacy to deescalate conflicts in the region.

And again, I think you've heard us talk about Yemen before. [Redacted.] And Yemen is now in the  (inaudible) the 17th month of, effectively, a truce. And we still have a lot of work to do.



But that has been an awful lot of U.S. diplomacy, and also working in the deterrence space to help stop increasing interdictions and other things, in terms of support to the Houthis, and also encouraging our partners to pursue a very proactive diplomatic campaign to deescalate that conflict.

So, deterrence and de-escalation go hand in hand. I think you'll see that in the agreement.

On the India-Middle East Corridor, I think it speaks for itself. And I would just say it's not exclusive to any other possible ways that goods get back and forth. But I think the leaders of these countries came together to endorse this project.

We've looked at the economics of it. It works. And I think, if anything, it increases trade and opportunities across the Middle East region, including, I think, other routes that have been discussed. So, I'll just  I think I'll leave it there, because I have not seen those comments, so I can't comment on that specifically.

But I think on the India-Middle East Corridor, it is unprecedented. And the route going from India to Europe through the Gulf, through Jordan, Israel, and vice versa, carries an awful lot of potential. And I think it can really promote economic integration, prosperity, really, across the sphere of this important part of the world.

Q Hi, thanks for the time. I wondered if you could elaborate a little bit on the comment you made in your earlier remarks about this being a potential template that could be replicated elsewhere in the region. Is there  where are you in terms of trying to do that? And would that be something similar to all the parts of this  the security and the economic aspects  or just focused on specific parts of that?

And then, I was wondering if you could also sort of talk a bit about how this fits into wider strategy on Iran and trying to keep Iranian threats at bay.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: I can answer the question in two ways. First, on, kind of, security cooperation, security integration, this has been a driving focus of our effort and then led by  led by CENTCOM, which is doing some truly extraordinary and very creative things, particularly in the Gulf region, and often led out of Bahrain and NAVCENT.

We talked about Task Force 59, which incorporates artificial intelligence and drones in a very new way to significantly enhance maritime awareness.

This is really the wave of the future. We think the Middle East region and CENTCOM is at the cutting edge of it. And a lot of that cooperation is at the (inaudible) sphere.

And what this agreement does is it kind of raises it up into a  into an internationally  a binding legal agreement and incorporates some of that cooperation in a more formal way. And there's a provision of the agreement that does  by mutual agreement, we can invite other countries to join.

So, I won't get ahead of that process. These things take time. But I think there's some  there's some real potential.

And the provisions on trusted technology as we move rapidly  and we very much believe the United States of America is at the forefront of the AI revolution, and Bahrain has been a very close partner in that regard. And that's important. So, I think I'd  I think I'd leave it there.

But it is really reinforcing to a lot of those broader initiatives that are going  going on in the region, often from the bottom up, led by CENTCOM.

On Iran, I think we have  our policy in Iran is focused on deterrence and deterring Iranian aggression, but also diplomacy and, as I mentioned, deterring or de-escalating conflicts where we can.

We have welcomed the restoration of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran. That's something that, you know, we had full visibility on, when the talks are going on in Baghdad and Oman over the course of  beginning in 2021 and 20-  into 2022 and 2023. And restoring diplomatic ties  it's better to have diplomatic ties than not to have diplomatic ties.

But at the same time, our eyes are wide open. In terms of Iran, President Biden has not shied away from ordering military strikes to protect our people. And we'll continue  we remain poised to do that.

We've increased our naval presence in the Gulf region recently in response to threats and interdictions as part of our role in ensuring that international commerce is safe. And we do a lot of that out of Bahrain, and we're grateful for Bahrain for hosting the Fifth Fleet.

So, the more security integration and cooperation the better, but this is not something that is directed at Iran. Again, we are focused on deterring threats from Iran or just deterring threats from terrorist groups, deterring threats from Iranian-backed militia groups, while also using diplomacy and de-escalation to try to encourage a more peaceful, stable, prosperous region over time.

Q Hi, thanks for taking my question. I just wanted to ask about this new agreement in the context of human rights in Bahrain. And will the U.S. be using this week's meetings with the Crown Prince to press for improved prison conditions and the release of political detainees? Thanks.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yes, I would say: pressing basically all of our friends, partners, allies. But to protect and advance human rights is a key focus of the President's National Security Strategy, and it's one of the five pillars of the President's vision for the broader Middle East that he laid out when he was in the Middle East last year. And quite frankly, we don't shy away from raising these issues, even with our closest partners around the world, and we'd say say Bahrain is no exception.

We have seen the Bahrainis make some important strides and some important reforms. I don't want to get ahead of things, but we've been discussing, for example, the situation and what is going on with hunger strikes in some of the prisons in Bahrain. We understand that some arrangements have been made. I don't want to  again, I don't want to get ahead of this process.

But we're hopeful that that situation is now being resolved. And I think that's because we have had very candid conversations with our Bahraini partners. We work at these issues very diligently. And I think we are one of the few countries around the world where human rights is at the table when we are having a very broader geostrategic conversations. And that's what makes us unique. We don't shy away from that.

Sometimes we might not be as public and vocal publicly as I know some might like, but I think we are  we're focused on being effective. And I think Bahrain is an example of that. I think we'll hear more about that over the course of the Crown Prince's visit this week.

Q Thank you so much. My main question was around, sort of, human rights as well, so I'm glad that you were able to address that.

But my second question is a little bit more specific around the corridor again. Part of it seems to involve some sort of connection between the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Can you elaborate the nature of that connection? And do you think that they're actually going to go through with building a rail or another connection given the political tensions and economic competition between their two countries and the long history of failed rail projects between their two countries?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: We do. We feel  we feel confident about it. We have  in fact, these discussions began in a trilateral basis with the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and UAE. And then ultimately, Jake's visit last summer, where he met with his counterparts from UAE and India, together with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, to discuss this in some depth. And so, I do think the foundation has been set to move forward on this.

The Saudis announced at the G20 $20 billion in supporting the Partnership for Global Infrastructure writ large. That's one of the President's signature initiatives. And I think that's quite important.

So, we think the economics of this work. It benefits everybody involved. And some of the tracks, as you know, are already built, so some of them just need some connections, which are not  which are not that hard to envision.

So, look, there's work to do. I think the agreement  the MOU that was signed in G20  we will get together within 60 days on working groups to begin laying some of the groundwork and laying some of the tracks. No pun intended.

But there's  you know, I think the foundation has been set, and we have a good commitment from the leaders even despite disagreements between all of these countries on many different things. That's something where  that we work on every day.

I will say: I think it's important that, you know, this is U.S. leadership and U.S. facilitation that brought this about. Without that, this would be impossible. And I think you heard that reflected in the comments of all the leaders who were in the room at the G20 at that event on Saturday, from the President of the EU, to the President of France, the Prime Minister of India, and Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, et cetera.

So, this was something that President Biden set  he kind of set this vision. When we  when they  when we had the idea, sat down with the leaders, and I think it's in  it's in good shape.

But we'll have more to talk about over the coming couple of weeks about that initiative.

Q Thank you. Hi, [moderator]. Hi, [senior administration official]. Thank you for doing this.

Would this upgrade involve a new weapons sale and will any element of this new agreement require congressional approval?

And second, on the economic corridor, is it open for other countries  like, for example, Iraq or Egypt  to join as you go along or even in the initial stage?

Thank you.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So, there  on this agreement  this agreement does not require congressional approval. It is an internationally binding agreement, so we will notify it to Congress under the CASE Act but it does not require congressional ratification. But it is an internationally binding agreement.

It also does not entail any specific weapons sales. I would note Bahrain was the first Gulf country to receive F-16s in the 1990s. And I think just this past spring, in March, (inaudible) delivered the first F-16 Block 70 fighters and, in doing so, became the first customer to receive that latest generation Block 70 aircraft  a purchase that nearly doubled the size of its fleet.

So, we have a very close military relationship with Bahrain. That's going to continue. And I think this agreement kind of formalizes that.

In terms of the corridor, it's a  it's an economic corridor that will really benefit the whole region. So, it's not exclusionary. But when you look at the economics of it, it really  it really has potential to benefit everybody.

You mentioned Egypt. The Suez Canal, of course, is the main chokepoint. And it is a chokepoint. It can only  only so many ships can go through the Suez Canal a day. So, when this corridor is actually moving, up and running, a ship-to-rail corridor, that does not take away from the importance of the Suez Canal in any way. It just increases the overall volume possibilities and opportunities not only of just trade and goods, but also clean energy products and everything that is addressed in that MOU.

So, we think there's potential here for everybody, including the Bahrainis, who will be in town this week.

Q Hi, [senior administration official]. Thanks for this. I was wondering if you could go a little bit beyond  into a little more detail about specific ways in which this will increase military and security cooperation with Bahrain, and if you see any likely candidates for, sort of, joining in, whether, you know, that would be like Saudi or the UAE afterwards.

And in terms of the trusted technology element of this, is this  I mean, how is that going to work? And is it aimed mainly at containing China's expansion in this role? We've seen them, you know, become quite present in the Gulf, especially in 5G, 6G, and  or, at least 5G and some other of these expanding technologies and AI.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah. Thanks, Stephen. I think  we're going release a pretty detailed factsheet after this call that I think addresses a lot of this, including on the defense and security cooperation side with  encompassed in this agreement and also on the technology side.

So, you know, I just don't want to get too ahead of it. But I think it does recognize the impor-  we see tremendous opportunity, and we worked on this very hard here  from the NSC, but throughout the interagency  on the opportunities that are emerging within the AI revolution. And we think America is very  is very well positioned to lead that revolution. And, frankly, Bahrain has been a very close partner in this area.

And so, this is an active, ongoing discussion with countries around the world, including the Middle East region. And  but this agreement kind of incorporates some of those principles. It's the first binding legal agreement of its kind that does that.

And so, I'll let it  I'll let it speak for itself.

MODERATOR: We have time for maybe one more question.

Q Thank you. Can you hear me?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yes.

Q Hello? Oh, okay. Hi. I wanted to go back to the very first question and the security aspects that you mentioned.

You said that it's a binding agreement for both to work together to help to deter and confront any external aggression. You  and then you talked about deterrence and diplomacy, but you didn't say anything about confrontation against external aggression. And I wonder what the extent of the U.S. commitment is to physically confront aggression.

And secondly, Saudi Arabia has said it wants a defense commitment from the United States. And I wonder, to the extent you see this agreement as a possible template for other countries in the region, is this something that the U.S. could live with for Saudi Arabia and other countries?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So, we are in discussions throughout the region about our security relationships, about looking towards the future. And  but I just  I wanted to emphasize: It's not about confrontation at all; this is about  this is defensive in nature. It's about deterrence, and it's about setting conditions for a more stable region going forward, which I think we have a fairly good record here  over the last few years, despite some significant difficulties and challenges which you all cover and know very well.

I think our record demonstrates that while we're very committed to the deterring element of policy, we're also very committed to the de-escalation and diplomacy elements and forging broader integration in the region, which is ultimately the recipe for a more stable region going forward.

The Gulf has a  Israel has important role in that  North Africa [redacted].

And trying to do all we can to deter some of the more aggressive nature and tendencies from the Iranians. And so, I think all of that is incorporated here.

I have it in front of me. I just can't read from it because until it's actually signed and in force, I don't want to get ahead of it.

But it is a  it is a commitment in the  in the event of a worst-case scenario of an attack to immediately  to immediately consult and ensure that we can do all we possibly can to deter further threats.

So, I think I'll leave it at that.

It is not a  it does not cross the threshold of a treaty. But it is a very strong security assurance, which I think, when you see it, you know, I think you'll find 

Q Yeah, I just ask because you used the word "confront."

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: I used the word "confront"?

Q Yeah. You said "work together to help to deter and confront any external aggression."

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah, that's right  "in the event of an attack." I think the  the standard security assurance is that we would immediately consult with our partner and ally, and determine the best way to confront would be an ongoing external aggression in that worst-case scenario.

But the ultimate objective of agreements like this are to ensure that you never get to that worst-case scenario. So, it is focused on strengthening a partnership, strengthening the deterrent element of policy to enable diplomacy and de-escalation to ultimately succeed.

Q Thanks.

MODERATOR: Thanks. Thanks, everyone for joining the call today and, again, apologies for the delay.

As a reminder, the contents of this call will be attributable to a "senior administration official," but no contents may be published or made public until the embargo is lifted tomorrow, September 13th, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern time.

Thanks, everyone.

3:11 P.M. EDT

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russo-Ukraine War - 13 September 2023 - Day 567

Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The UK Ministry of Defence reported that elements of Russia's new 25th Combined Arms Army (25 CAA) have highly likely deployed to Ukraine for the first time. The formation is likely focused on Luhansk Oblast in the north-east of the country.

As recently as August 2023, recruitment adverts for 25 CAA claimed it would only deploy to Ukraine from December 2023.

It is likely that units have been rushed into action early partly because Russia continues to grapple with an over-stretched force along the front and Ukraine continues its counter-offensive on three different axes. However, there is also a realistic possibility that Russia will attempt to use parts of 25 CAA to regenerate an uncommitted reserve force in the theatre to provide commanders with more operational flexibility.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that the Russian Federation conducted another massive air strike with Iranian Shahed-136/131 strike UAVs in Odesa oblast and Sumy oblast. The main target of the strike was the port infrastructure in the cities of Izmail and Reni in Odesa oblast. Air defense destroyed 34 out of 45 Russian Shahed UAVs. In total the Russian invaders launched 1x missile, 80x air strikes and 32x MLRS strikes at the positions of Ukrainian troops and various settlements. Unfortunately, the Russian attacks killed and wounded civilians. Port infrastructure, residential buildings and other civilian infrastructure were destroyed and damaged.

During the day of September 13, there were 24x combat engagements.

The operational situation in the east and south of Ukraine remains difficult.

Volyn and Polissya axes: no significant changes. There are no signs of offensive groups being formed. Certain units of the Belarusian armed forces are performing tasks in the areas bordering Ukraine.

Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna axes: Russia maintains its military presence in the border areas, continues shelling settlements from the territory of Russia, and unsuccessfully tries to carry out armed provocations assaulting Ukraine's frontiers. Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Morokhovets', Pletenivka (Kharkiv oblast) and Stepok (Sumy oblast). More than 30x settlements came under Russian artillery and mortar fire, including Karpovychi, Hrem'yachka, Osove (Chernihiv oblast), Yastrubyne, Sadky, Velyka Pysarivka (Sumy oblast), Ohirtseve, Zybyne (Kharkiv oblast).

Kup'yans'k axis: Ukrainian defenders repelled Russian attack northeast of Berestove (Kharkiv oblast). Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Petropavlivka, Kyslivka (Kharkiv oblast) and Novoselivs'ke (Luhansk oblast). The settlements of Fyholivka, Novomlyns'k, Dvorichna, Syn'kivka, Kyslivka, Kotlyarivka (Kharkiv oblast) came under Russian artillery and mortar fire.

Lyman axis: the Russian adversary did not conduct any offensive actions and continues to regroup its troops. The Russian invaders launched air strikes against the settlements of Novojehorivka, Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), and Sivers'k, Spirne (Donetsk oblast). Russian occupiers shelled with artillery and mortars more than 20x settlements, including Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), Zarichne, Verkhn'okam'yans'ke, Spirne, Vesele, Rozdolivka (Donetsk oblast).

Bakhmut axis: Russian forces tried to regain the lost position in the area of Bohdanivka (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces launched air strikes against the settlements of Kurdyumivka and Klishchiivka, (Donetsk oblast). More than 20x settlements came under Russian artillery and mortar fire, including Vasyukivka, Zaliznyans'ke, Min'kivka, Orikhovo-Vasylivka, Bohdanivka, Klishchiivka (Donetsk oblast).

Avdiivka axis: the settlements of Keramik, Ocheretyne, Stepove, Avdiivka, Lastochkyne, Pervomais'ke (Donetsk oblast) suffered Russian artillery and mortar fire.

Mar'inka axis: during the day of September 13, the Ukrainian defenders repelled more than 10x Russian attacks in the vicinity of Mar'inka. The Russian adversary launched an air strike near Krasnohorivka. The Russian invaders fired artillery and mortars at around 10x settlements, including Krasnohorivka, Mar'inka, Pobjeda, Novomykhailivka, Kostyantynivka (Donetsk oblast).

Shakhtars'ke axis: Russian forces launched air strikes at the settlements of Prechystivka, Novomaiors'ke, Urozhaine (Donetsk oblast). Around 10x settlements, including Vodyane, Vuhledar, Prechystivka, Novoukrainka, Zolota Nyva, Urozhaine (Donetsk oblast), came under Russian artillery and mortar fire.

Zaporizhzhia axis: Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at more than 15x settlements, including Orikhiv, Hulyaipole, Robotyne, Stepove, P'yatykhatky (Zaporizhzhia oblast) and Nikopol' (Dnipropetrovsk oblast).

Kherson axis: the adversary launched air strikes in the vicinities of Odradokam'yanka and Prydniprovs'ke (Kherson oblast). The Russian occupiers fired artillery and mortars at the settlements of Zmiivka, Odradokam'yanka, Antonivka, Kherson, Tomyna Balka (Kherson oblast).

At the same time, the Ukrainian Defense Forces continue to conduct the offensive operation on Melitopol' axis and offensives (assaults) on Bakhmut axis, destroying Russian forces and step by step liberating the occupied territories. As a result of the assault operations, the Defense Forces have partial success in the vicinities of Klishchiivka, Andriivka, Kurdyumivka (Donetsk oblast), pushing the Russian forces out of their positions and consolidating new positions.

During the day of September 13, the Ukrainian Air Force launched 10x air strikes on the concentrations of troops, weapons, and military equipment as well as 2x strikes against anti-aircraft missile systems of the Russian adversary.

Missile troops hit 10x artillery systems, 2x ammunition depot, 1x command post and 1x anti-aircraft missile system and 1x electronic warfare station of the Russian invaders.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that in Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces, supported by aviation and artillery, have repelled eight attacks by assault groups of 80th airborne assault, 3rd assault, 59th motorised infantry and 110th mechanised brigades of the AFU close to Kleshcheevka, Andreevka, Pervomaiskoye, and Krasnogorovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

The enemy losses were up to 140 Ukrainian servicemen, two infantry fighting vehicles, four motor vehicles, and one Msta-B howitzer.

In addition, one ammunition depot of the AFU 79th Airborne Assault Brigade has been destroyed near Novomikhailovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

In South Donetsk direction, as a result of coordinated actions by units of the Vostok Group of Forces, supported by aviation, artillery, and heavy flamethrower systems, two attacks by assault groups of 38th and 36th brigades of the AFU Marines have been repelled close to Novomayorskoye (Donetsk People's Republic) and Priyutnoye (Zaporozhye region).

The enemy losses were up to 235 Ukrainian servicemen killed and wounded, two armoured fighting vehicles, three motor vehicles, as well as one electronic warfare station.

In Zaporozhye direction, units of the Russian grouping of troops, aviation, artillery, and heavy flamethrower systems have repelled two attacks by assault groups of the 82nd Airborne Assault Brigade of the AFU near Verbovoye (Zaporozhye region).

In addition, enemy manpower and hardware of 47th mechanised, 48th airmobile, and 82nd airborne assault brigades of the AFU have been hit near Rabotino (Zaporozhye region).

The enemy losses were over 205 Ukrainian servicemen, one tank, three armoured fighting vehicles, and two motor vehicles.

During the counter-battery warfare, U.S.-manufactured M777 and M119 howitzers, four D-30 guns, one D-20 gun, and one Msta-B howitzer have been hit.

In Krasny Liman direction, as a result of competent actions of units of the Tsentr Group of Forces, Ground-Attack and Army aviation, and artillery, two attacks by assault groups of the 21st Mechanised Brigade and the 12th Azov Special Operations Brigade have been repelled east of Yampolovka (Donetsk People's Republic) and Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk People's Republic).

The enemy losses were up to 65 servicemen and two armoured fighting vehicles.

In Kupyansk direction, the attacks, launched by aviation and artillery of the Zapad Group of Forces, have resulted in the neutralisation of the AFU manpower and hardware close to Novosyolovskoye (Lugansk People's Republic), Olshana and Kotlyarovka (Kharkov region).

The enemy losses were up to 85 Ukrainian servicemen, two armoured personnel carriers, and two motor vehicles.

In addition, in the course of counter-battery warfare, one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system, one M777 artillery system, and one U.S.-manufactured M109 Paladin howitzer have been destroyed.

One ammunition depot of the AFU 114th Brigade of the Territorial Defence of Ukraine has been destroyed near Glubokoye (Kharkov region).

In Kherson direction, artillery and heavy flamethrower systems have hit one manpower concentration area of the 124th Territorial Defence Brigade near Alekseevsky Island.

As a result of the fire attack, over 80 Ukrainian servicemen, two motor vehicles, and one U.S.-manufactured M777 artillery system have been destroyed.

Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation have neutralised Ukrainian P-18 and ST-68 radar stations for the detection and tracking of air targets near Lukashevo (Zaporozhye region) and Krutoyarovka (Dnepropetrovsk region), as well as enemy manpower and military hardware in 129 areas.

Air defence facilities have shot down 5 projectiles launched by HIMARS MLRS.

In addition, 37 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles have been destroyed and suppressed by electronic warfare stations close to Blagodatnoye, Zaitsevo (Donetsk People's Republic), Verkhnekamenka, Novovodyanoye (Lugansk People's Republic), Kardashinka, Sagi (Kherson region), Novogorovka and Tarasovka (Zaporozhye region).

In total, 467 airplanes, 248 helicopters, 6,706 unmanned aerial vehicles, 437 air defence missile systems, 11,811 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,150 fighting vehicles equipped with MLRS, 6,359 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 12,958 special military motor vehicles have been destroyed during the special military operation.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russo-Ukraine War - 14 September 2023 - Day 568

Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The UK Ministry of Defence reported that on 10 September 2023, Energoatom, Ukraine's nuclear power plant operator, announced it had a successfully refuelled a reactor at its Rivne Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) using Western-produced nuclear fuel assemblies.

All of Ukraine's NPPs have reactors based on Soviet designs and until February 2022 it relied on Russia for nuclear fuel. Since Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine has accelerated plans to diversify its supply.

With nuclear energy supplying approximately half of Ukraine's electricity, Energoatom's success in sourcing and installing Western fuel is a major waypoint in Ukraine's long-term decoupling from Russia whose influence over Ukraine's energy supply is severely diminished.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day of September 14, there were more than 20x combat engagements. Also, today the Russian Federation has conducted another massive air strike with Iranian Shahed-136/131 strike UAVs in Mykolaiv oblast, Zaporizhzhia oblast, Dnipropetrovsk oblast and Sumy oblast. As a result of successful combat operations, the Air Force along with the air defense of other units of the Defense Forces destroyed 17 out of 22 Russian Shahed UAVs. In total the Russian invaders launched 1x missile, 44x air strikes and 37x MLRS strikes at the positions of Ukrainian troops and various settlements. Unfortunately, the Russian attacks killed and wounded civilians. Residential buildings and other civilian infrastructure were destroyed and damaged.

The operational situation in the east and south of Ukraine remains difficult.

Volyn and Polissya axes: no significant changes. There are no signs of offensive groups being formed. Certain units of the Belarusian armed forces are performing tasks in the areas bordering Ukraine.

Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna axes: Russia maintains its military presence in the border areas, continues its sabotage and reconnaissance activities, shells settlements from the territory of Russia, and unsuccessfully tries to carry out armed provocations assaulting Ukraine's frontiers. The Russian adversary launched air strikes in the vicinities of Strilecha and Pletenivka (Kharkiv oblast). More than 15x settlements came under Russian artillery and mortars fire, including Bleshnya, Karpovychi, Hrem'yachka, Hai (Chernihiv oblast), Stara Huta, Ulanove, Machulyshcha, Hrabovs'ke, Ponomarenky (Sumy oblast), Neskuchne, Okhrimivka, Nesterne, Budarky (Kharkiv oblast).

Kup'yans'k axis: Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Stepova Novoselivka, Kotlyarivka (Kharkiv oblast) and Nadiya, Novojehorivka (Luhansk oblast). The settlements of Kucherivka, Kyslivka, Ivanivka, Syn'kivka, Berestove (Kharkiv oblast) came under Russian artillery and mortars fire.

Lyman axis: the settlements of Nevs'ke, Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), Tors'ke, Verkhn'okam'yans'ke, Spirne (Donetsk oblast) suffered Russian artillery and mortars fire.

Bakhmut axis: Russian forces launched an air strike in the vicinity of Klishchiivka, (Donetsk oblast). More than 10x settlements came under Russian artillery and mortars fire, including Orikhovo-Vasylivka, Hryhorivka, Chasiv Yar, Ivanivske, Pivnichne (Donetsk oblast).

Avdiivka axis: the Ukrainian defenders are bravely holding the line and have successfully repelled a number of Russian attacks in the vicinities of Avdiivka and Lastochkyne (Donetsk oblast). The Russian invaders fired artillery and mortars in the vicinities of Panteleimonivka, Keramik, Lastochkyne, Avdiivka, Sjeverne, Pervomais'ke (Donetsk oblast)

Mar'inka axis: during the day of September 14, the Ukrainian defenders repelled about 10x Russian attacks in the vicinity of Mar'inka. Russian forces launched an air strike near Krasnohorivka (Donetsk oblast). The invaders fired artillery and mortars at about 10x settlements, including Krasnohorivka, Mar'inka, Pobjeda, Novomykhailivka, Yelyzavetivka (Donetsk oblast).

Shakhtars'ke axis: Russian forces launched air strikes at the settlements of Vodyane, Prechystivka, Novomaiors'ke and Staromaiors'ke (Donetsk oblast). About 10x settlements, including Vodyane, Vuhledar, Prechystivka, Shakhtars'ke, Zolota Nyva, Urozhaine (Donetsk oblast), came under Russian artillery and mortars fire.

Zaporizhzhia axis: the Russian occupiers launched an air strike near the settlements of Robotyne (Zaporizhzhia oblast). Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at more than 15x settlements, including Malynivka, Hulyaipole, Huliaipilske, Novoandriivka, P'yatykhatky, Kam'yans'ke (Zaporizhzhia oblast).

Kherson axis: the Russian occupiers fired artillery and mortars at more than 10x settlements, including Havrylivka, Zmiivka, Tokarivka, Antonivka, Veletens'ke, Stanislav (Kherson oblast) and Pokrovs'ke (Dnipropetrovsk oblast).

At the same time, the Ukrainian Defense Forces continue to conduct the offensive operation on Melitopol' axis and offensives (assaults) on Bakhmut axis, destroying Russian forces and step by step liberating the occupied territories. As a result of the assault operations, the Defense Forces have partial success in the vicinities of Klishchiivka and Andriivka (Donetsk oblast), pushing Russian forces out of their positions and consolidating new positions.

During the day of September 14, the Ukrainian Air Force launched 10x air strikes on the concentrations of Russian troops, weapons, and military equipment.

Missile troops hit 5x artillery systems, 1x ammunition depot, 1x command post and 2x anti-aircraft missile systems of the Russian invaders.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that in Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces utilising the results of aviation, heavy flamethrower systems, and artillery strikes repelled eight attacks of assault detachments of the AFU 80th Airborne Assault Brigade and 59th Motorised Brigade near Klescheevka, Berdichi, Pervomayskoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

The enemy's losses for the day have amounted to around 350 Ukrainian troops killed and wounded, three armoured fighting vehicles, five motor vehicles, three U.S.-made M777 and M109 howitzers, and one D-30 howitzer.

One ammunition depot of the AFU 28th Mechanised Brigade has been hit close to Dileevka (Donetsk People's Republic).

In Zaporozhye direction, units of the Russian Group of Forces supported by Army aviation, artillery, and heavy flamethrower systems repelled three attacks by the AFU 82nd Airborne Assault Brigade and 71st Jaeger Brigade close to Verbovoye (Zaporozhye region).

Up to 95 Ukrainian personnel, one tank, two armoured fighting vehicles, and three motor vehicles were neutralised.

In the course of counter-battery warfare U.S.-made M777 and M119 artillery howitzers, one UK-made FH-70 howitzer, one Msta-B, one D-20 and one D-30 howitzers were wiped out.

In South Donetsk direction, the Tsentr Group of Forces' units, aviation, artillery, and heavy flamethrower systems repelled one attack of an assault detachment of the AFU 128rd Territorial Defence Brigade close to Priyutnoye (Zaporozhye region).

Up to 140 Ukrainian personnel, one tank, two armoured fighting vehicles, and three motor vehicles were neutralised.

In Krasny Liman direction, the Tsentr Group of Forces' units, aviation, artillery, and heavy flamethrower systems repelled one attack of an assault detachment of the AFU 63rd Mechanised Brigade close to Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk People's Republic).

In addition, strikes were delivered at clusters of enemy manpower and hardware near Seversk, Grigorovka, and Serebryanka (Donetsk People's Republic).

Up to 55 Ukrainian troops, three armoured fighting vehicles, three motor vehicles, and one D-20 howitzer were destroyed.

In Kupyansk direction, the Zapad Group of Forces units, air strikes, and artillery fire repelled one attack of the AFU 30th Mechanised Brigade near Sinkovka (Kharkov region).

The enemy suffered up to 130 Ukrainian troops, two infantry fighting vehicles, and three motor vehicles in this direction during the day.

In addition, in the course of counter-battery warfare, one AFU M777 artillery howitzer, one M109 Paladin artillery system, as well as one US-made AN/TPQ-36 counter-battery radar station were neutralised.

Two AFU ammunition depots were annihilated close to Berestovoye and Tikhoye (Kharkov region).

In Kherson direction, up to 70 Ukrainian troops, one armoured fighting vehicle, seven motor vehicles, as well as one D-30 howitzer, were neutralised by fire.

Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Group of Forces have engaged AFU manpower and hardware in 143 areas during the day.

In addition, one P-18 air target detection and tracking radar station was destroyed near Novopavlovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

Two control posts of the AFU 100th Territorial Defence Brigade and the 15th regiment of Ukraine's National Guard were hit near Serebryanka and Krasny Liman (Donetsk People's Republic).

One AFU ammunition depot was wiped out close to Trudovoye (Zaporozhye region).

Fighter aviation of Russian Aerospace Forces shot down one Mi-8 helicopter of Ukrainian Air Force near Krasny Liman (Donetsk People's Republic).

Russian air defence units intercepted four HIMARS MLRS projectiles during the day.

Furthermore, during the day, 53 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were neutralised and suppressed by radio electronic warfare means close to Verkhnekamenka, Topolevka (Lugansk People's Republic), Peski, Vasilevka, Krasnaya Gora (Donetsk People's Republic), Novofedorovka, Vasilyevka (Zaporozhye region), Aleshki and Novaya Kakhovka (Kherson region).

In total, 467 airplanes and 249 helicopters, 6,759 unmanned aerial vehicles, 437 air defence missile systems, 11,826 tanks and other armoured combat vehicles, 1,150 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 6,374 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 12,982 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Taiwan grants EUA for updated Moderna COVID vaccine

ROC Central News Agency

09/13/2023 09:40 PM

Taipei, Sept. 13 (CNA) Taiwan's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted emergency use authorization (EUA) for Moderna's Spikevax XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccine and is planning to roll out the new jab by the end of this month.

An expert panel approved the vaccine for recipients over the age of six months during a review meeting on Wednesday, FDA Deputy Director Chen Hui-fang (e eS) said in a call with reporters.

Tseng Shu-hui (), deputy director of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), said the agency expects to take delivery of a batch of 2 million doses of the vaccine in the coming days.

After receiving the doses, health officials will take at least a week to inspect and label the shots before making them available to the public, likely in late September, she said.

Tseng previously said the updated Moderna shots -- the first of 6 million doses Taiwan will receive this year -- will first be offered to people aged 65 and above.

In a press release announcing the authorization, the FDA said the approved vaccine is based on similar technology to Moderna's previous shots, and offers strong protection against the Omicron XBB sublineage which is currently the dominant strain in Taiwan.

In terms of safety, adverse reactions to the vaccine are generally mild to moderate in severity, and similar to those of Moderna's previous COVID-19 shots, the statement said.

COVID-19 cases and deaths have remained low in Taiwan in recent weeks, with only 44 severe infections and 6 deaths from the disease reported from Sept. 5-11, according to CDC data.

(By Shen Pei-yao, Tseng Yi-ning and Matthew Mazzetta)

Enditem/AW

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Visit to Vostochny Cosmodrome

September 13, 2023

07:10

Amur Region

Vladimir Putin met with Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea Kim Jong-un at the Vostochny Cosmodrome.

The leaders inspected facilities at the new cosmodrome, including a booster assembly room for Angara launch vehicles, the launching site for the Soyuz-2 space launch vehicle, an Angara launching site under construction, and the launch control centre.

Deputy Prime Minister - Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District Yury Trutnev, Roscosmos Head Yury Borisov and Director General of the Centre for the Operation of Ground-Based Space Infrastructure Nikolai Nestechuk accompanied Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un.

* * *

Before inspecting the cosmodrome, Vladimir Putin had a conversation with Mariya Andreyeva, a ninth-grade school student at Classical Lyceum No 1 in Rostov-on-Don. On September 1, she took part in the Talking of What Matters open lesson, conducted by the President. She told him that she was fascinated with designing space satellites and suggested drafting educational programmes for school students at Roscosmos enterprises.

While at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, Vladimir Putin presented Mariya with a rocket launch key and invited her to attend the launch of the Soyuz MS-24 spacecraft from the Baikonur Cosmodrome on September 15.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






New Aussie home for US materiel

By Captain Krysten Clifton

13 September 2023

A splash of camouflage will come to Bandiana, Victoria over the coming months, as ADF trucks transport United States Army vehicles and equipment to their new home at Gaza Ridge North Barracks.

The US equipment consists of about 330 vehicles and trailers and 130 containers used in the biennial multinational, multiservice Exercise Talisman Sabre in July-August.

ADF joint logistics Colonel Clare Kellaway said the agreement to store the materiel is positive for both nations - the US avoids extra time and money transporting the equipment for future exercises and operations, and it demonstrates the strong relationship between the two defence forces.

"Members of our community might be interested as to why there's lots of different types of military equipment making their way to East Bandiana, so it's important to let them know that it's part of our ongoing defence cooperation with the US," Colonel Kellaway said.

"All of our defence personnel are working together with their US counterparts to ensure the safe arrival and maintenance of their equipment. This has meant working together as a team - as logisticians, as trainers and as maintainers."

ADF joint logistics operations manager Major Matt Knight said this arrangement is mutually beneficial from a tactical perspective for the ADF.

"We get to focus on the interoperability between the ADF and the US Army," Major Knight said.

"For example, this enables us to test the compatibility of our land vehicle systems with theirs.

"There's no impact to ADF preparedness as the storage of the US materiel makes use of vacant space previously used during World War 2."

The initiative isn't the first collaboration Albury-Wodonga has seen between Australia and the US.

During World War 2, the US provided funding to aid in the construction of warehouses at North Bandiana - coincidentally, where the current US vehicles and equipment will be stored.

With the arrival of US vehicles and equipment, additional training is required for staff to effectively operate and store the materiel. Luckily, the solution is found close to home.

Major Matt Knight said Joint Logistics Unit (Victoria) is working hand-in-glove with staff from Army Logistic Training Centre, who train personnel in logistics, to ensure a seamless transfer and storage of the equipment.

"We are using recovery mechanics from Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering to drive US wreckers and understand how our vehicles can operate with US trailers and other vehicles," Major Knight said.

The movement and storage of the materiel is a proof of principle for the prepositioning of US Army stores in Queensland and comes following the annual Australian United States Ministerial meetings in 2021 and 2022.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Operation NANOOK 2023 successfully concluded in Canada's Arctic

National Defence

News release

September 13, 2023 - Ottawa - National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

Operation NANOOK 2023's two summer serials demonstrating the Canadian Armed Forces' (CAF) abilities to deploy forces and conduct exercises with our Allies and international and Whole of Government partners in the Arctic, concluded on Saturday, September 9.

Elements of the Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Air Force, and Canadian Special Operations Forces Command were represented in NANOOK 2023. Members of Canadian and U.S. Special Operations Forces were embarked in HMCS Harry DeWolf to exercise their ability to conduct joint and integrated operations in the complex and challenging Arctic environment.

Leading the summer land-based operation, the Canadian Army deployed approximately 100 soldiers from 2nd Canadian Division, supported by the 1st Canadian Ranger Patrol Group.

The land task force deployment to Inuvik and Tuktoyatuk, Northwest Territories enabled land forces to conduct presence and surveillance operations in that region.

The Royal Canadian Air Force contributed multiple aircrafts including a CP-140 Aurora long-range patrol aircraft, CH-138 Twin Otters and a CH-147 Chinook helicopter to support multiple portions of the operation.

The U.S. Navy's participation in the maritime component this year included for the first time the Los Angeles-class submarine USS San Juan (SSN 751) and Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (UUV) Flotilla 1 (UUVFLOT 1), which uses UUVs to provide subsea warfare capabilities. Additionally, the USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79), as well as U.S. naval maritime patrol squadrons VP-10 Red Lancers and VP-45 Pelicans, participated in this year's exercise.

Ships from the U.S. Coast Guard, French Navy and Royal Danish Navy also participated in the training.

As part of the operation, the USS San Juan, with four members of the Royal Canadian Navy aboard, navigated the Northwest Passage. This allowed for the practice of anti-submarine warfare and all domain awareness, as the USS San Juan was tracked by air, land and sea assets along the route.

Quotes

"The Arctic's vast and unforgiving landscape, combined with its strategic importance, demands that we work together with our allies to safeguard this emerging region of global competition. Op NANOOK is the centerpiece of our joint, combined, and multi-departmental exercises to master operations in the north. This exercise demonstrates our commitment to Arctic security and strengthens our contribution to Arctic defence." Vice-Admiral Bob Auchterlonie, Commander Canadian Joint Operations Command

"Operation NANOOK is the Canadian Armed Forces signature northern operation, that includes comprehensive joint, interagency and multinational exercises. This work continues to expand and enhance our capabilities in a complex, challenging, and evolving environment. We welcome the participation of our allies in working with us to hone and advance our collective skills in contribution to continental defense." Rear-Admiral JosAe Kurtz, Commander Maritime Forces Atlantic

"Operating and training with the Canadian Armed Forces and the United States Coast Guard in the Arctic allows us to meet the demands of an increasingly accessible operating environment. The tri-party relationship is critical to regional security and homeland defence... together we will continue to ensure a safe and secure Arctic." Vice Adm. Daniel Dwyer, Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet

"We value the opportunity to work together with Allies and partners in the Arctic on exercises like Operation NANOOK. As a Canadian, I have the privilege of working within a U.S. numbered fleet and am confident that, collectively, we have the resources and the will required to provide security and defense of North America-- we are truly stronger together." Rear Adm. David Patchell, Vice Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet

Quick facts

Operation NANOOK is the Canadian Armed Forces' signature Arctic operation comprised of four comprehensive annual activities designed to exercise the defence of Canada and to secure our northern regions.

The four annual exercises each have distinctive times, objectives, and locations.

Operation NANOOK takes place each year across Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Labrador.

The 2023 summer serials included: Operation NANOOK-TUUGAALIK: the maritime component that took place from August 8 to 25. Portions of Op NANOOK-TUUGAALIK will continue until September 29 as HMCS Harry DeWolf continues maritime presence patrols in the region. Operation NANOOK-NUNAKPUT: the primary land component that took place from August 27 to September 9.



NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






China, Venezuela elevate bilateral ties during Maduro's visit

Global Times

Two countries signed wide-ranging cooperation docs on BRI, economy, tech etc.

By Zhao Yusha Published: Sep 13, 2023 11:43 PM

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Moros jointly announced on Wednesday the elevation of the two countries' relations to an all-weather strategic partnership. China will continue to firmly support Venezuela's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, dignity and social stability, as well as its just cause against external interference, Xi told visiting Maduro on Wednesday afternoon.

Chinese experts said Maduro's seven-day "historic" visit to China marks that the bilateral relationship is entering a new stage, as the two signed cooperation agreements on jointly building the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and in the economic, education, technology and aerospace arenas, as well as other areas. Experts believe that the visit will unveil a new chapter of cooperation with China that will inject new impetus into Venezuela's development, which has entered a new stage of development after weathering the impact of US sanctions and is now experiencing economic recovery.

A slew of leaders from developing countries have visited or plan to visit China lately, a sign observers believe demonstrates the global south's confidence in China's growth, as well as anticipation for cooperation with China. They believe it is the special appeal of China's development model and plan for overcoming world's common challenges that helped unite developing and emerging economies, amid rising anti-globalization and unilateralism.

China has always viewed the development of its relationship with Venezuela from a strategic and long-term perspective. We will continue to firmly support Venezuela's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, dignity, and social stability, as well as its just cause against external interference, Xi said.

Xi also announced with Maduro the elevation of the China-Venezuela relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership.

The establishment of an all-weather strategic partnership between China and Venezuela meets the common expectations of the two peoples and conforms to the general trend of historical development, Xi said, calling on the two sides to push for more fruitful China-Venezuela strategic cooperation, bring more benefits to the two peoples and inject more positive energy into world peace and development.

Maduro said that during his visit, everything he saw and heard fully demonstrates China's progress and strength. He expressed gratitude for China's valuable support and assistance provided during Venezuela's multiple challenges of suffering from illegal unilateral sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Venezuela is willing to learn from China's experience in building special economic zones and deepen practical cooperation in agriculture, investment, education, tourism and other fields, he said.

Maduro said Venezuela supports the joint construction of the Belt and Road. The Venezuelan side also supports the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by Xi.

The two leaders witnessed the signing of multiple bilateral cooperation agreements in the fields of the BRI, economy and trade, education, tourism, science and technology, healthcare, aerospace and civil aviation.

New chapter of ties

In the joint declaration of elevating ties, the two countries believe it is necessary for collective efforts to uphold the common values of peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy, and freedom for all humanity, oppose all forms of hegemonism and power politics, oppose all forms of unilateralism, oppose the formation of exclusive cliques targeting specific countries.

They agreed to accelerate the signing of the cooperation documents for joint construction of the BRI. China and Venezuela signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for cooperation on the BRI on September 14, 2018.

The two countries also signed agreements on investment, agreed to deepen legal exchanges and deepen cooperation on energy, finance, trade, investment, digital economy and other fields, as well as encourage the two countries' airlines to open flights on the China-Venezuela route in a timely manner based on market needs.

Venezuela reiterated its interest in joining the BRICS, and vowed to make contributions as a reliable energy supplier with the country's large oil and natural gas reserves.

Xu Shicheng, a research fellow at the Institute of Latin American Studies under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times that in recent years, China's relationship with Venezuela witnessed rapid development with both sides reaching agreements on lunar exploration, big data and other areas. "The two countries share a high degree of mutual trust. This visit will bring bilateral ties to a new stage," Xu said.

Venezuela has suffered from illegal unilateral sanctions from the US and its allies, which exerted a heavy blow to the South American country's development. However, Venezuela's economy began to pick up in 2021, and its surrounding diplomatic environment is less hostile, Xu said, noting that cooperation with China can inject new impetus into Venezuela's economic recovery.

Since last year, Colombia began mending fences with Venezuela, including signing an unprecedented bilateral investment treaty in February this year that evidences the marked improvement in their relations.

Appealing experiences, plans

Maduro's visit overlapped with visits of leaders from other developing nations, including Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, who kicked off his visit to China on Sunday and new Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, who will pay an official visit to China from Thursday to Saturday.

The slew of visits reveals that developing countries have extremely high expectations of boosting their development via cooperation and learning from China's experience, when the world economic recovery remains sluggish despite shaking off the COVID-19 paralysis, Song Wei, a professor at the School of International Relations and Diplomacy at Beijing Foreign Studies University, told the Global Times.

She said the facts also corroborate that most developing countries are confident about China's growth and openness. "China's continuing opening-up amid anti-globalization and geopolitical tussles has certainly infused confidence into the world," Song said, noting that developing countries' recognition also serves as rebuttal for the "China's economic collapse" hype that is popular among some Western countries.

Interestingly, those leaders' visits are not confined to the capital Beijing. Maduro visited a number of Chinese cities including Shenzhen in South China's Guangdong Province, Shanghai and Jinan, East China's Shandong Province.

When asked why he chose Shenzhen as the first stop of his trip, Maduro said, "For those who are looking for development, technology and new inventions, Shenzhen is an important place, so it is a good starting point," according to a report by the Shenzhen Special Zone Daily.

China's tech hub also hosted Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, who stayed in Shenzhen from Sunday to Tuesday. Hichilema visited tech companies Tencent and ZTE on Tuesday in Shenzhen.

Cooperation and development are the pillars of ties with developing countries. For a long time China has provided assistance for those countries, yet as the tide of globalization has changed and those countries are facing more hurdles in developing than ever, China is now offering a more "sustainable" assistance and imparting the Chinese experience to those countries, according to Song.

And it is not only China's development model, but the China-proposed initiatives for challenges that the international society faces, such as the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative,and the Global Civilization Initiative, which have received wide praise from developing countries, said experts.

In an exclusive interview with Xinhua, Maduro said that today the international community is facing a historic opportunity to help usher in a multipolar world, where no single country or group dominates.

Dozens of emerging nations are helping humanity reunite, and regain its rights to happiness, equality, freedom, and democracy, he said, hailing China as at the forefront of those efforts.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






China issues proposal on reform, devt of global governance

Global Times

To prevent new 'new frontiers' from militarization caused by major power competition

By Yang Sheng and Zhang Yuying Published: Sep 13, 2023 11:27 PM Updated: Sep 13, 2023 11:00 PM

The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Wednesday issued the Proposal of the People's Republic of China on the Reform and Development of Global Governance, with Chinese analysts saying this comprehensive and far-sighted document reflects China's ideas and stances over almost all hotspot issues worldwide, and that it is crucial for the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

The year 2023 marks the 10th anniversary of the proposal of the idea of a "community with a shared future for mankind" by Chinese President Xi Jinping. Over the past decade, this concept has grown from an idea to action, and from a vision to reality, said the proposal, adding that China calls on the international community to act on true multilateralism, uphold the international system with the United Nations (UN) at its core, support the UN in playing a central role in international affairs, and further develop and improve the global governance system.

Detailing the proposal at a regular press briefing on Wednesday, Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, said the international community expects the UN to play an active role in international affairs and continuously reform and improve the global governance system.

The proposal comprehensively elaborates China's stance and propositions on key areas of global governance such as peace, security, development, human rights and society, as well as on institutional reform, she said.

Experts held that in the document, China released its latest stances and proposals about the Ukraine crisis, the nuclear issues of Iran and the Korean Peninsula, the Afghanistan issue, the Palestine-Israel conflict, as well as the issues of Syria, Sudan, Libya and Yemen. These stances are different from the US and some of its Western allies, but much closer and similar to those of developing countries. This proves that China will firmly stand with the justice and fairness upheld by the majority of the international community, rather than submit to hegemony.

On the Ukraine crisis, the document said: "No one gains from conflicts and wars. Imposing sanctions, exerting pressure, or adding fuel to the fire will only escalate the situation. It is important to maintain mutual respect, abandon the Cold War mentality, stop ganging up to stoke camp-based confrontation, and work to build a balanced, effective and sustainable European security architecture."

On the Korean Peninsula nuclear crisis, the document said: "Given the current situation, parties concerned need to remain calm and restrained, work to ease the situation and make efforts to create conditions for the resumption of dialogue, rather than insisting on sanctions and pressuring, which would only aggravate problems and escalate tensions."

Li Haidong, a professor at the China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times on Wednesday that "currently, global governance faces huge challenges of turbulence, splits and confrontation, and in order to ensure security, stability and sustainable prosperity, we need positive, effective and well-accepted ideas for global governance and ensure they are implemented. This proposal is truly needed under the current situation."

The thinking of the US and the West on global governance is outdated and getting increasingly dysfunctional, and the ongoing turbulence around the globe is proof. The old Western-dominated rules and ideas are based on unfairness, bullying and plundering against developing countries, and these have brought huge risks to the world, and created splits and confrontations, Li noted.

"China's idea for global governance is made to counter the unfairness and imbalances," Li said.

On the Palestine-Israel issue, the document said: "It is important to keep to the right direction of peace talks, respect the historical status quo of the holy sites in Jerusalem, refrain from making radical and provocative comments and moves, promote the hosting of an international peace conference with wider participation, higher authority and greater influence, create conditions for the resumption of peace talks, and make concrete efforts to help the two states of Palestine and Israel to coexist peacefully."

China believes that regional hot spots such as the Iranian nuclear issue and the issues of Syria, Sudan, Libya and Yemen need to be resolved through political means. China supports Middle East countries in independently exploring development paths, resolving regional security issues through solidarity and coordination, and maintaining lasting peace and security in the region, said the proposal.

Wang Yiwei, director of the Institute of International Affairs at the Renmin University of China, told the Global Times that the document is not only covering the ongoing hotspot issues and long-standing geopolitical crises, but also eyes the future.

"The deep sea, polar regions, outer space, cyberspace and digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) have become the new frontiers of global governance. Faced with the new circumstances, new areas and new challenges, we need to follow the principles of peace, development, inclusiveness and shared governance, and take active steps to keep the rules governing new frontiers up to date with the times and fully reflective of developing countries' opinions, interests and aspirations. The rights to participation, stating their views, and decision-making of developing countries should be fully safeguarded," said the proposal.

The international community should commit to upholding a cyberspace featuring peace, security, openness and cooperation, and oppose the camp-based division, militarization and fragmentation of cyberspace, the document said. "No party should overstretch the concept of national security, or unscrupulously deprive another country of its legitimate right to development. Advantage in cyber technologies should not be used to spread aggressive cyber technologies, or turn cyberspace into a new battleground for geopolitical competition," the proposal reads.

In these "new frontiers," the UN system has yet to cover them all with sophisticated rules, so it is important for China to present its stance, to stress that the new frontiers should not become arenas for major power competition and should not be weaponized and militarized. They should be shared by the whole humanity, and while now some countries are unable to enter these new frontiers like outer space, the countries with advantages should preserve and safeguard their rights, Wang noted.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on September 13, 2023

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

AFP: DPRK leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Putin met today in eastern Russia. Kim said that growing relations with Russia will be the DPRK's top priority. What does this mean for ties between China and the DPRK?

Mao Ning: The DPRK leader's visit to Russia is something between their two countries and concerns DPRK-Russia relations.

As to China-DPRK ties, China and the DPRK are friendly neighbors connected by mountains and rivers. Our bilateral relations are making sound progress. Both sides are working to act on the important consensus reached by our top leaders, deepen exchanges and cooperation across the board, and strive for new and greater progress in our traditional friendship and cooperation.

CCTV: We have noted the Proposal of the People's Republic of China on the Reform and Development of Global Governance released by the foreign ministry today. Do you have more on that?

Mao Ning: The 78th session of the UN General Assembly opened a few days ago. The General Debate will be held from September 19 to 26. Against the backdrop of an international landscape fraught with chaos and changes and various global challenges, the international community is looking to the UN to play an active role in international affairs and make new progress in reforming and improving the global governance system. The 78th UNGA session presents an important opportunity for the international community to build political consensus, enhance solidarity and cooperation, and jointly tackle challenges.

The Proposal of the People's Republic of China on the Reform and Development of Global Governance elaborates on China's position and proposition on global security, development, human rights and social, and new frontiers governance as well as on reform of multilateral institutions, and calls on the international community to jointly act on the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative and build a community with a shared future for mankind. The document demonstrates China's sense of responsibility as a major country and constructive role in international affairs. By releasing it as the 78th UNGA session gets underway, China is contributing its ideas to global governance reform. We stand ready to work with all sides to practice true multilateralism and make new contributions to world peace, development and the human rights cause.a

Hubei Media Group: September 12 is the UN Day for South-South Cooperation. How does China see the significance of South-South cooperation? And what will you do to further promote South-South cooperation?

Mao Ning: South-South cooperation embodies the spirit of solidarity and cooperation for a shared future in the developing world. To promote South-South cooperation is conducive to upholding the common interests of developing countries, accelerating sustainable economic, social and environmental development around the globe, and realizing more equitable and inclusive global governance.

As the largest developing country, China has always been a champion of South-South cooperation. We have worked actively to advance South-South cooperation in such fields as poverty reduction, food security, agritech, public health, industrialization and climate response, contributing to global growth in the process of our own development. In 2021, President Xi Jinping proposed the Global Development Initiative (GDI). Under this framework, China has worked closely with all parties, especially developing countries, and supported other countries in accelerating efforts to realize the sustainable development goals. Over 200 GDI cooperation projects have borne fruit, and more than 70 countries have joined the GDI Group of Friends. At the recently concluded BRICS meetings, President Xi Jinping noted that China has allocated more resources and set up a Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund, and Chinese financial institutions will soon set up a special fund dedicated to the implementation of the GDI. China will continue working with relevant parties to advance South-South cooperation and build a community with shared development so that all countries can share in the development outcomes.

AFP: US and Canadian warships transited the Taiwan Strait last week. Recent reports say China staged large-scale military exercises around the Taiwan island. Could you offer more information?

Mao Ning: On the US and Canadian warships' transit through the Taiwan Strait, the PLA Eastern Theatre Command spokesperson already released a statement, which you may refer to.

I want to stress that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory and China is unwaveringly determined to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Relevant sides should immediately stop such provocative acts and stop being a trouble-maker disrupting peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

Kyodo News: Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida reshuffled the Cabinet today. Yoko Kamikawa, Acting Secretary-General of the LDP, has been appointed the new foreign minister. What's your comment?

Mao Ning: Japan's Cabinet reshuffle is its internal affair. China and Japan are each other's important close neighbors. Keeping bilateral relations on a track of sound and steady development serves the common interests of both countries and the wider region. Both sides need to be guided by the important common understandings reached by our leaders and take the 45th anniversary of the signing of the China-Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship this year as an opportunity to enhance dialogue and communication, deepen practical cooperation, manage and control differences, and work together to build a stable and constructive China-Japan relationship that meets the requirements of the new era.

RIA Novosti: The adviser to the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine said that India and China "do not analyze the consequences of their own steps." What is China's comment on this?

Mao Ning: I don't know the context of these remarks and will leave it to the speaker to offer explanations. On the Ukraine crisis, China always acts in a responsible manner to promote talks for peace and facilitate a political settlement. The individual you cited should view China's position correctly based on accurate interpretation.

TV Asahi: According to reports, some Chinese government agencies have banned the use of iPhone. Can you confirm this? Does the foreign ministry ban the use of iPhone?

Mao Ning: China is committed to advancing high-level opening up. We protect foreign companies' rights and interests in accordance with the law and strive to foster a first-class market-oriented, law-based and internationalized business environment. We always treat foreign companies with openness and welcome them to seize the opportunities presented by China's development and share in the outcomes of China's economic growth.a

China did not issue any law, regulation or policy document that bans the purchase and use of cellphones of foreign brands, such as iPhone. However, recently we did notice media reports about security issues related to iPhone. The Chinese government attaches great importance to cyber and information security and treats Chinese and foreign companies as equals. We hope all cellphone companies operating in China will strictly abide by China's laws and regulations, such as the Data Security Law of the People's Republic of China and the Personal Information Protection Law of the People's Republic of China, enhance information security management, protect consumers' data stored in the cellphones against theft by any individual or organization, and ensure information security.

Kyodo News: Which Chinese leader will attend the UN General Assembly this year?

Mao Ning: We will release information in due course. Please check back for updates.

EFE: According to the Vatican, the Papal envoy Cardinal Zuppi is in China to seek diplomatic efforts to help end the Ukraine conflict and could meet with Chinese leaders. Can China confirm this visit? What comments do you have about the Vatican's efforts to mediate in the war in Ukraine?

Mao Ning: Cardinal Matteo Zuppi is coming to China as Pope Francis' special envoy to seek peace in Ukraine. Li Hui, Special Representative of the Chinese Government on Eurasian Affairs, will meet with him. On the Ukraine issue, China is always committed to promoting peace talks. We stand ready to work with all sides and continue to play a constructive role in deescalating the situation.

AFP: Viet Nam's official news agency reported today that a fire in an apartment building in Hanoi has killed more than ten people. Can the foreign ministry confirm if there are any Chinese nationals among the casualties?

Mao Ning: I'm not yet aware of the specifics concerning the fire you mentioned. I'm sure our embassy in Viet Nam will closely follow the situation, provide timely assistance to Chinese nationals in need, help keep them safe and protect their rights and interests.

NHK: According to reports, the Russian foreign ministry announced at a press conference that Wang Yi will visit Russia on September 18 and hold talks with the Russian foreign minister. Can you confirm this?

Mao Ning: China and Russia have been in close communication. Please stay tuned for updates.

TV Asahi: The DPRK launched two ballistic missiles this morning. How does China comment on that?

Mao Ning: China is closely following the developments on the Korean Peninsula. We hope relevant parties will keep to the direction of political settlement and address each other's legitimate concerns in a balanced way through meaningful dialogue and strive for lasting peace and stability on the Peninsula at an early date.

AFP: Could you update us on Venezuelan President Maduro's ongoing state visit in Beijing?

Mao Ning: For more details on the specific program on President Maduro's visit, we will release information in a timely manner. Please stay tuned.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Hong Kong police charge man over 'seditious' children's books

The man is accused of inciting 'violence' and 'hatred of the government' after buying the books from the UK.

By Cheryl Tung for RFA Cantonese 2023.09.13 -- Authorities in Hong Kong have charged a man with "possession of seditious publications" after he bought copies of the banned "Sheep Village" series of children's picture books from the United Kingdom.

Kurt Leung, 38, was charged with bringing 18 books into Hong Kong with the intention of inciting hatred of the Chinese and Hong Kong government, and promoting "feelings of ill-will and enmity."

Leung is accused of having three copies each of "The Guardians of Sheep Village," and other titles in the series -- which the authorities say glorifies protesters who fought back against riot police during the 2019 protest movement, "beautifying bad behavior" and "poisoning" children's impressionable minds.

One book characterizes the wolves as dirty and the sheep as clean, while another lauds the actions of heroic sheep who use their horns to fight back despite being naturally peaceful.

Five speech therapists who co-wrote the books were jailed for 19 months apiece in September 2022 after being found guilty of "conspiracy to print, publish, distribute, display and/or reproduce seditious publications" under a colonial-era sedition law.

Hong Kong's Ming Pao newspaper said the books had been mailed to Yeung from the United Kingdom, and were found following a joint search operation by the national security police and customs officials.

Chief Magistrate Victor So denied Yeung bail in a hearing at the West Kowloon Magistrate's Court on Sept. 6.

According to the charge, Leung imported the books with "the specific purpose" of inciting hatred or "provoking rebellion" against the Hong Kong and Chinese governments, as well as to "incite others to violence" and encouraging people to disobey the law.

London-based rights group Amnesty International said Yeung's arrest -- which came alongside the arrest of another man who has yet to be charged -- marked a "new low" for human rights in Hong Kong.

"People's freedoms have been battered in Hong Kong since the introduction of the National Security Law in 2020, but even in that context this feels like another new low for human rights in the city," the group's deputy regional director Hana Young said in a statement at the time of the arrests.

"It is the latest example of the Hong Kong authorities using the colonial-era sedition law as a pretext for cracking down on critical voices," Young said.

"These ludicrous sedition charges must be dropped. No one should be imprisoned only because they own children's books."

'Red lines'

U.K.-based writer and former pro-democracy District Councilor Franco Cheung said it was unreasonable to arrest people for buying books from overseas.

"We're not talking about fighting the government," Cheung said. "Even if there is a reason [for this], there should be a list of [banned] books."

"The blurring of the lines has gotten to the point where even schools and libraries don't know which books are acceptable and which aren't," he said, in a reference to recent culls of potentially sensitive titles from public libraries and schools in Hong Kong.

He said everyone in the city currently runs the risk of inadvertently crossing one of the government's "red lines."

"Those of us who are overseas don't need to worry or censor ourselves, and we must hold onto these books," he said. "We don't know when books that are being published now will no longer be published, or be destroyed."

The proprietor of online bookstore Misy Baby, which specializes in importing children's titles from democratic Taiwan, said she is already being more cautious about which books she brings into Hong Kong.

"You can get charges pinned on you for anything nowadays," the proprietor, who gave only the nickname Anna for fear of reprisals, told Radio Free Asia.

She said she was recently warned by a Taiwanese publishing house to be careful about what she bought.

"Some books published in Taiwan are about Hong Kong, but I don't buy them any more," Anna said. "Publishing houses ... have warned me ... not to make them public."

"The government can haul you in or shut you down for reading anything that is politically sensitive nowadays," she said. "I'd rather not take that risk right now -- I'd rather wait."

"Right now I'm too scared to read any sensitive books."

Translated with additional reporting by Luisetta Mudie.

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content September not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






China Enforces Ban on Mongolian Language in Schools, Books

By Kasim Kashgar September 13, 2023

Advocates of Mongolian culture and language say a recent decision by authorities in China to ban a collection of books on Mongolia's history nearly two decades after its first publication is just one example of the tight controls Chinese authorities are imposing in Inner Mongolia.

From books in libraries to what is taught in the classroom, measures that authorities are taking in Inner Mongolia a a semi-autonomous region in China a are raising concerns, advocates and experts say, about the preservation of Mongolian culture and language. It is also part of an effort by authorities under China's leader Xi Jinping to forge a common national identity.

On August 25, the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Book and Periodical Distribution Industry Association issued a notice instructing its members to halt the distribution of the "General History of the Mongolian Ethnic Group" and called on them to "adhere to the correct [Chinese Communist] Party historical perspective and resolutely oppose historical nihilism."

The notice said: "After careful examination, we recommend temporarily suspending distribution" of the multivolume series and ordered that it be "removed from shelves immediately."

The series was authored by Inner Mongolian writer Mansang Taichuud and first released by Chinese publisher Liaoning Nationalities Publishing House in 2004.

The official notice also said: "We should enhance the prevention and resolution of risks in the field of ideology and ensure effective control at the source of general book distribution."

Enghebatu Togochog, director of the New York-based Southern Mongolian Human Rights Information Center (SMHRIC), said the multivolume history is not the only book on Mongolia to be banned.

"We have learned that recently Mongolian books and publications are being removed from shelves in libraries in colleges and universities, and in some cases, Mongolian textbooks are burned in schools in the regional capital Hohhot," Togochog told Voice of America.

In recent years, authorities in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region have removed several books, including "Inner Mongolian History and Culture," "Mongolian History," and "Bor-tohai History and Culture" (three editions), as well as "Hulun-boir History and Culture." A trial edition of "Horchin History and Culture" was also removed from middle and elementary school curricula in the region, he said.

"It is not surprising to see that the Chinese government is doubling down on the banning of Mongolian books and publications, as this has always been an integral part of the larger effort of the Chinese government to eradicate the Mongolian language, culture, and identity since the first day of the colonial occupation," Togochog said.

Mongolian activists outside of China often refer to their homeland as Southern Mongolia, instead of using Beijing's official name for the area, the Inner Mongolian Autonomous Region.

Not just books

The efforts extend beyond the banning of books and encompass a comprehensive prohibition on the use of the Mongolian language in educational settings.

September 1 marked the end of a three-year transition to the use of Mandarin as the only language of instruction for all subjects in Inner Mongolia. The transition was opposed by parents.

In posts that have since been removed from Chinese social media, one Inner Mongolian parent named Mandaa shared concerns about the new school year, according to SMHRIC, which shared the original post with VOA.

"Today marks the start of the new school year, and I've heard the voices of helpless and frustrated Mongolian parents in our local communities. It appears that Mongolian students are no longer receiving instruction in their native language," Mandaa stated.

"This policy, implemented under the guise of 'Second Generation Bilingual Education,' is widely regarded by Mongolians worldwide as a form of cultural genocide," Togochog said.

"For the 6 million Southern Mongolians who have already lost their national freedom and the fundamental right to maintain their traditional way of life, language represents the last bastion of national identity," he said.

When asked about the Southern Mongolian Human Rights Information Center's criticism of Mongolian language policies and book bans, Liu Pengyu, spokesperson at the Chinese Embassy in Washington, said the accusations were just "political speculation with ulterior motives."

"The Chinese government, in accordance with relevant laws, promotes the use of the national common spoken and written language in ethnic minority areas, upholds the principle of equality in the spoken and written languages of all ethnic groups, and guarantees, according to law, the freedom of all ethnic groups, including the Mongolian ethnicity, to use and develop their own spoken and written languages," Liu told Voice of America in an emailed response.

New normal

Why authorities are so concerned with the collection of Mongolian history books remains unclear. Interestingly, according to Baidu Baike, China's equivalent of Wikipedia, the author was previously praised and even credited with enriching "the treasure trove of the history of civilization of the Chinese nation" for compiling the "General History of the Mongols" by Chinese authorities.

Christopher Atwood, department chair and professor of Mongolian and Chinese frontier and ethnic history at the University of Pennsylvania, tells VOA that authorities have yet to disclose why the book was banned, even after such a long time in circulation.

For many parents, Atwood said, the Mongolian language education situation in Inner Mongolia has evolved into a "test of endurance."

"Many ethnic Mongol parents are hoping to maintain their children's language competence at home until the policy changes and once again Mongolian-medium education is allowed," Atwood told VOA. "The party-state, however, is hoping to get the Mongols to accept the new normal and acquiesce to a steady decline in the public profile and use of Mongolian language."

However, Atwood said that even before the new policy began in 2020, the number of students in ethnic Mongol schools was in decline. The percentage dropped from more than 60% in the early 1990s to about 30% in 2019.

"This decline was driven by parents prioritizing employment over their ethnic language. So, I think while a committed minority of ethnic Mongol parents will continue to prioritize Mongolian language education, in the long run, odds favor the party-state in this contest of endurance. Not to mention that the idea of the policy changing is just a vague hope at this point," he said.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia-N.Korea military cooperation likely to reach new breakthrough; US, allies push Moscow, Pyongyang closer: experts

Global Times

By Yang Sheng Published: Sep 13, 2023 09:43 PM

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un met at Vostochny space launch facility in Russia's Far Eastern Amur Region on Wednesday, and experts said the two countries, which both suffer from heavy sanctions and threats from the US-led West, are likely to upgrade their cooperation over technologies related to rockets or ballistic missiles.

According to TASS, Putin made it clear on Wednesday at the Vostochny Spaceport that Moscow stands ready to help North Korea build satellites. Kim, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, arrived at Khasan, border town of Russia on Tuesday, and met Putin at the spaceport on Wednesday.

"This is why we are visiting here. The North Korean leader has expressed a strong interest in rocket technology, and they are also seeking to develop space exploration capabilities," Putin told reporters.

North Korea failed to launch a military reconnaissance satellite twice this year. The latest attempt was on August 24, and the first was on May 31, according to the Korean Central News Agency. Experts said this proves that the country really needs support from outside to improve its satellite launch program, and Russia is a country with mature and advanced technology, while North Korea can provid what Russia desires.

Song Zhongping, a Chinese military expert and TV commentator, told the Global Times on Wednesday that ballistic missile technology can be used for building rockets to launch satellites and nuclear weapons, so it is very sensitive, and any Russia-North Korea cooperation will surely unnerve the US and its allies.

Cui Heng, an assistant research fellow at the Center for Russian Studies of East China Normal University, told the Global Times on Wednesday that "rocket or ballistic missile technology is extremely sensitive for a nuclear-armed power. The meeting at Vostochny Spaceport proves that the mutual-trust between the two countries is very high."

When asked ahead of his meeting with Kim whether the two leaders would discuss defense cooperation, Putin said "We will discuss every issue without any rush; we have the time."

Due to the Ukraine crisis and the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue, Russia and North Korea are now both facing heavy sanctions and threats from the US-led West, and Russia and the West have already started to decouple from each other. Russia therefore has nothing to worry about if it provides sensitive technology to North Korea, as it is no longer afraid of any further sanctions from the West. There might be nothing left that could be sanctioned by the West now, experts said.

In other words, it is Washington and its allies that have pushed Moscow and Pyongyang to stand closer and closer, and the US and its allies will have to face any consequence caused by their hostile strategy that ruined the security situation in both Europe and Northeast Asia, analysts noted.

Kim said during his dialogue with Putin that "Now, Russia is fighting a sacred fight to protect its state sovereignty and security while combating hegemonic forces that oppose Russia," Kim said, adding that his visit came at "a special time," according to TASS.

The North Korean leader expressed his full support to the Russian leadership. "We have always supported every decision that President Putin or the Russian government makes," Kim said. Pyongyang is seeking to develop further its relationship with Moscow, the North Korean leader noted, TASS reported on Wednesday.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Arrives at Khasan of Russian Federation

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, September 13 (KCNA) -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, arrived at Khasan, border town of the Russian Federation, on early morning of September 12.

The Khasan Railway Station was in a warm atmosphere of welcoming the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un paying an official visit to the Russian Federation to put the DPRK-Russia relations of friendship and cooperation on a fresh higher level.

The guard of honor of the three services of the armed forces of the Russian Federation and the military band lined up at the Khasan Railway Station where the flags of the DPRK and the Russian Federation were fluttering.

The private train of Kim Jong Un entered the yard of the Khasan Railway Station at 6:00 local time.

He was greeted by Alexandr Kozlov, minister of Natural Resources and Ecology of Russia, Oleg Kozhemyako, governor of the Maritime Territory Administration, and other senior officials in Moscow and local areas who came to Khasan to guide him.

He got off the train and exchanged warm greetings with the senior officials who came to receive him.

The senior officials warmly welcomed him on a visit to Russia again as the closest friend of the Russian people, conveying the greetings from Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, president of the Russian Federation, to him.

Then there took place a ceremony of welcoming Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK, on his visit to the Russian Federation.

The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un received a salute from the chief of the guard of honor of the three services of the armed forces of the Russian Federation.

The national anthems of the DPRK and the Russian Federation were solemnly played.

He reviewed the guard of honor of the three services of the armed forces of the Russian Federation.

He had a warm talk with the Russian friends in the reception room of the railway station.

Senior officials from the Russian capital and local areas told him that President Putin personally sent them to the border station to greet him, adding that the Russian government and people are doing their best to offer him sincerest hospitality, hoping his visit would be significant.

Noting that he was pleased to visit Russia again four years after his visit in 2019, Kim Jong Un said that his visit to the Russian Federation, the first foreign visit after the worldwide public health crisis, is a clear manifestation of the stand of the WPK and the government of the DPRK prioritizing the strategic importance of the DPRK-Russia relations.

Expressing deep thanks to the senior officials from the capital and local areas for greeting him with enthusiastic and warm feelings of friendship at the border station, he extended best wishes to the president, government, army and people of the Russian Federation on behalf of the DPRK.

He received a gift from Alexandr Kozlov.

He left for his destination, being given a warm send-off by Russian officials. -0-

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Formal dinner in honour of Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea Kim Jong-un

September 13, 2023

12:20

Amur Region

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Comrade President, friends,

Allow me once again to cordially welcome our distinguished guests, Comrade Kim Jong-un and all our Korean colleagues.

I remember well when, during our talks in Vladivostok in 2019, we exchanged views on the development of our relations and on the international agenda at that time. Your current visit is taking place in an atmosphere of true camaraderie, friendship and positivity. We have an extensive agenda and a programme that includes visits not only to the Vostochny Cosmodrome, but also to other major high-tech clusters, industrial facilities and innovation centres in the Russian Far East.

This year, Russia and North Korea will mark a significant anniversary - 75 years of diplomatic relations. The Soviet Union was the first to recognise the newly established Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Our relationship dates back to Korea's struggle for freedom in 1945, when Soviet and Korean soldiers, shoulder to shoulder, smashed the Japanese militarists.

Today, we strive to further strengthen the bonds of companionship and neighbourly relations, and work for peace, stability and prosperity in the region we share.

Comrade Kim Jong-un, you are firmly and confidently following the course laid down by outstanding statesmen such as the founder of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Kim Il-sung, and his successor, Comrade Kim Jong Il. They were our genuine and true friends and consistently supported building the closest relations and ties between our countries.

A Korean proverb says, "good clothes are new clothes, but a good friend is an old friend." Russian people say, "an old friend is better than two new ones." These popular sayings are fully applicable to modern relations between our countries.

I would like to propose a toast to the further strengthening of friendship and cooperation between our countries, between the Russian Federation and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, to the success and prosperity of our nations, to the health of Comrade Chairman and all those present.

Chairman of State Affairs of the DPRK Kim Jong-un (retranslated): I am delighted to be able to visit Russia after four years and five months [after receiving the invitation], to meet with President Putin and to be in this remarkable place filled with the feeling of sincere comradely friendship.

Comrade Putin, first of all, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for inviting us despite your busy schedule, filled with the affairs of state, and for giving us such a hospitable welcome. I would also like to express our gratitude to officials from the federal centre and Far Eastern regions who have done a great deal to make our visit to Russia a success.

I would like to use this occasion to convey a combat tribute and warm fraternal greetings from the Korean people to the Russian people, who have risen to fulfil the historical mission of building a strong Russia and reliably protecting the country's strategic interests.

Comrades, this visit is taking place at a time when a fierce competition between progress and reaction, between justice and injustice is gaining momentum on the international stage, and when the rise of the multipolar world is proceeding thanks to the common will and combined strength of independent forces.

Comrade Putin and I have just had an in-depth discussion on the military-political situation on the Korean Peninsula and in Europe. We have come to a satisfactory consensus regarding the further strengthening of our strategic and tactical cooperation, mutual support and solidarity in the battle for our sovereign right to security and to create guarantees for a lasting peace in the region and the world. We are confident that the Russian army and people will inevitably attain victory in the sacred struggle to punish the evil crowd, which claims the right to hegemony based on the illusion of expansionism, a struggle to create the stability needed for development.

The task of expanding and building up Russian-North Korean relations not only fully meets the interests of our two nations but is also a relevant part of the current period of striving for independence. I will work together with the President of Russia to develop stable and forward-looking Russian-North Korean relations for decades to come, using them to stimulate the development of strong states in our countries and to ensure genuine international justice.

As soon as I stepped on Russian soil, I got a sense of your fighting spirit and exuberant activity, and I have become a direct witness to the remarkable achievements of the Russian people in the creation of a powerful modern Russia under the wise guidance of Comrade Putin.

I have no doubt that the heroic Russian army and people, the glorious successors of the traditions of victory, will convincingly demonstrate the invaluable importance of honour on two fronts: during the special military operation and when building a powerful state.

In conclusion, I would like to express confidence that this visit will provide a vital impetus to the further development of the traditionally friendly North Korean-Russian relations and their transformation into unbreakable relations of strategic cooperation.

I raise my glass to the health of Comrade Putin, President of Russia, to the new victories of great Russia, to the continuing development and strengthening of friendship between North Korea and Russia, and to the health of all the comrades present here!

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia-North Korea talks

Vladimir Putin and Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea Kim Jong-un held talks at the Vostochny Space Launch Centre.

September 13, 2023

08:50

Amur Region

Following the talks with participation of the countries' delegations, the two leaders held a one-on-one meeting.

* * *

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Chairman,

I am delighted to see you again and to welcome you to Russia. This time we are meeting at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, just as we agreed.

We are proud of the way this sector is developing in Russia, and this is our new facility. I hope that it will be of interest to you and your colleagues.

However, our meeting is taking place at a special time. The People's Democratic Republic of Korea has recently celebrated the 75th anniversary of its founding, and we established diplomatic relations 75 years ago. I would like to remind you that our country was the first to recognise the sovereignty and independence of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

This year we mark 70 years since the end of the war for independence and the Korean people's victory in that war. It is a landmark date because our country also helped our friends in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to fight for their independence.

Of course, we need to talk about our economic cooperation, humanitarian issues and the situation in the region.

There are many issues we will discuss. I would like to say that I am glad to see you. Thank for accepting our invitation to come to Russia.

Welcome.

Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea Kim Jong-un (retranslated): I express my gratitude to you for inviting us despite your being busy with state affairs.

Our visit to Russia is taking place at a very important time. The Russian side is giving a warm welcome to the delegation from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. From the moment we arrived in Russia, we could feel the sincerity of our Russian friends. On behalf of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, I express my gratitude to you and to the people of the Russian Federation. I also thank you for paying so much attention to our visit to Russia.

We have been able to see with our own eyes the present and the future of Russia as it builds itself as a space power. Right now, we are having a meeting at a very special moment, right in the heart of the space power which is Russia.

As you mentioned, the Soviet Union played a major role in liberating our country and helping it become an independent state, and our friendship has deep roots. Currently, our relations with the Russian Federation are the top priority for our country. I am confident that our meeting will serve as another step in elevating our relations to a new level.

As you have just mentioned, we have many issues pertaining to the development of our relations, including politics, the economy and culture, in order to contribute to the improvement of the well-being of our peoples.

Russia is currently engaged in a sacred battle to defend its state sovereignty and security in the face of the hegemonic forces that oppose Russia. We are willing to continue to develop our relations. We have always supported and will continue to support every decision made by President Putin, as well as the decisions of the Russian Government. I also hope that we will always stand together in fighting imperialism and building a sovereign state.

Once again, I express my gratitude to you for providing us with the opportunity to visit Russia and for paying so much attention to our visit.

Vladimir Putin: Thank you.

<...>

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Kim Jong Un says relations with Russia top priority: Kremlin

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 16:12, September 13, 2023

VLADIVOSTOK, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Developing relations with Moscow is the top priority for Pyongyang, Kim Jong Un, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, said Wednesday, according to the Kremlin.

"Our friendship has deep roots, and relations with the Russian Federation is the top priority for our country now," Kim said during talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Vostochny spaceport in the Amur region in Russia's Far East.

Kim thanked the Russian president for the invitation to Russia, adding that the visit takes place at a crucial time.

Kim also expressed confidence that bilateral talks will help to "bring relations to a new level."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






DPRK top leader arrives at Russian border town Khasan

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 08:54, September 13, 2023

SEOUL, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Kim Jong Un, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), arrived at the Russian border town of Khasan early Tuesday, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Wednesday.

Kim, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK, is paying an official visit to the Russian Federation to put the DPRK-Russia relations of friendship and cooperation to a fresh higher level, KCNA said.

Kim's private train entered the yard of the Khasan Railway Station at 6:00 a.m. local time, according to the report.

During talks with Russian officials in the reception room of the railway station, Kim said that the visit to Russia, his first foreign visit since the COVID-19 pandemic, is a clear manifestation of the stance of the ruling party and the government of the DPRK prioritizing the strategic importance of the DPRK-Russia relations, the report said.

Kim then left for his destination, with a warm send-off by Russian officials, it added.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






N Korean leader hails Russia for standing up against Western 'hegemonic forces'

Iran Press TV

Wednesday, 13 September 2023 3:42 PM

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has praised Moscow for having "stood up against the hegemonic forces" to defend its sovereignty and security, a veiled reference to the US and the West.

Kim told President Vladimir Putin that "Russia will emerge victorious in the fight to punish the evil forces," as the two leaders met for talks at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia's far east on Wednesday.

Kim did not name Ukraine but said the "Russian military and its people will inherit the shining tradition of victory" and demonstrate their reputation on the front line of the "military operation."

Elsewhere in his remarks, the North Korean leader vowed to establish "a new era of 100-year friendship" between the two countries, and expressed his wish for "the great Russia's new victory" and Putin's health.

"I will always be standing with Russia," Kim said. "we will always support the decisions of President Putin and... we will be together in the fight against imperialism".

Putin floats military cooperation

President Putin, for his part, stated that there were "possibilities" for military cooperation between the countries. The Russian president also signaled a willingness to assist North Korea in developing its space and satellite program.

When asked by a reporter earlier Wednesday whether Russia would help North Korea launch its own satellites and rockets, Putin responded, "That's exactly why we came here."

"The leader of North Korea shows great interest in space, in rocketry, and they are trying to develop space. We'll show our new objects," Putin said. "We'll talk about all the issues without haste, there is time."

Video released by the Kremlin Wednesday showed the two leaders shaking hands before touring the space center and adjoining rocket complex, where launch vehicles are assembled and tested.

North Korea has made space technology a priority. Kim in the past had stressed the role of military satellites as a means to protect national safety and territorial stability.

Washington claimed it had intelligence data that the talks between Putin and Kim on a weapons deal were "actively advancing".

Kremlin said Kim's visit would cover "bilateral relations, the situation in the region and in the global arena."

The North Korean leader's previous trip abroad was to Russia to meet Putin after the collapse of bilateral denuclearization talks with then-US president Donald Trump.

Since 2006, North Korea has been under UN sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programs.

West breaking pledges on humanitarian support for Pyongyang: Lavrov

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday the geopolitical climate had changed completely since the United Nations imposed sanctions on North Korea, and he accused the West of breaking pledges on humanitarian support for Pyongyang.

Lavrov said the West had broken contractual agreements by providing Soviet-era weaponry to Ukraine - a reference to arms supplied to Kiev by central and eastern European countries which once belonged to the Moscow-led Warsaw Pact.

Ever since the war began, Kiev's allies, led by the United States and Britain, have been supplying Ukraine with weapons, a step that Russia says would prolong the conflict.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






North Korea fires two short-range ballistic missiles as Kim visits Russia

Iran Press TV

Wednesday, 13 September 2023 6:34 AM

North Korea has reportedly fired two short-range ballistic missiles as the country's leader Kim Jong-un visits Russia to have a meeting with his Russian counterpart.

The South Korean military said on Wednesday its radars had detected "two short-range ballistic missiles fired by North Korea from the Sunan area towards the East Sea at around 11:43 to 11:53 today", referring to the body of water also known as the Sea of Japan.

"Our military has strengthened surveillance and vigilance in preparation for further launches while maintaining full readiness by closely cooperating with the US," the military added.

The Japanese coast guard also confirmed that two ballistic missiles were launched.

Japan's top government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters that the missiles "appear to have fallen outside Japan's exclusive economic zone but we are analyzing details".

Kim is in Russia with his top military officials and is set to meet President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday for talks focused on defense cooperation.

According to media reports, Russia is aiming to purchase artillery shells from North Korea, while Pyongyang is looking for help in upgrading its Soviet-era military equipment, especially for its air force and navy.

"Fascinating: a launch without Kim Jong (-un) in the country. A first," US-based analyst Ankit Panda wrote on X.

"Starting in 2019, KJU stopped attending every single publicized launch (and sometimes his presence was deliberately obscured)," Pandit wrote. "There's precedent for launches without Kim, but not without Kim in-country."

North Korea has conducted a string of weapons tests so far this year, the last one involving two short-range ballistic missiles last month.

Also last month, North Korea failed to launch a space satellite into orbit in its second attempt.

South Korea and the United States have continued bolstering military cooperation, staging joint exercises as well as naval drills with Japan off the Korean peninsula.

Pyongyang views the joint military drills as a rehearsal for invasion, maintaining a strong military as a deterrence force.

Current relations between Pyongyang and Seoul are at their lowest point in years, and diplomacy is stalled after failed attempts to discuss the North's denuclearization.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Kim, Putin to fortify 'anti-imperialist' united front, vow tech cooperation

North Korea, Russia leaders meet at Russia's space icon Vostochny Cosmodrome.

By Lee Jeong-Ho for RFA 2023.09.13 -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin met at the symbol of Russia's space prowess on Wednesday, where both sides vowed to boost their comprehensive cooperation, spanning from the economy to military.

"I want to discuss cooperation in the economy, and many other areas," Putin told Kim at the start of the landmark summit at Russia's far east spaceport of Vostochny Cosmodrome on Wednesday. "It would also be nice to talk about the situation on the Korean Peninsula."

"I am honored to meet you here, at the heart of a space superpower," Kim responded. "We will stand with Russia in our anti-Imperialist united front."

The comments came as both leaders were set to discuss military cooperation that could boost their battle against the West. At the heart of the cooperation is most likely to be Russia's weapons technology transfer in exchange for North Korea's conventional ammunition.

Kim has a "keen interest in rocket technology and is focusing on space advancements. I plan to familiarize him with the latest technologies during our base tour," Putin told reporters, as captured by footage released by Russian media IRA Novosti on Wednesday.

Asked about Russia's intention to assist North Korea's satellite development, the Russian leader said: "That's why we're here."

The two leaders have yet to publicly comment on any ammunition deal, but the Kremlin said on Wednesday that it would cooperate with North Korea in "sensitive areas that can't be disclosed."

The summit lasted around two hours, according to the Kremlin, which said no joint statement would be released.

Missile launch

Meanwhile, North Korea has fired two ballistic missiles off to its eastern coast, as Kim and Putin arrived in the Vostochny Cosmodrome for the summit where arms trading is most likely to dominate the agenda.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said on Wednesday that they have "detected two short-range ballistic missiles fired into the East Sea [Sea of Japan]", about an hour before the Kim-Putin summit. The missiles were fired from the Sunan area, near Pyongyang, it added.

While it is unclear on why North Korea fired missiles, Pyongyang has historically shown a tendency to use such launches as its strategic tool against the democratic world.

The launch marks the "onset of comprehensive military collaboration between the two nations. This could imply a united front between the North Korean and Russian militaries against the trilateral security cooperation between the ROK, U.S. and Japan," said Cheon Seong-whun, a former security strategy secretary for South Korea's presidential office.

"Simultaneously, it shows that North Korea could still operate in Kim Jong Un's absence. It acts as a deterrent against potential attacks targeting the North Korean leadership."

The Kim-Putin summit is widely viewed as an effort by Pyongyang and Moscow to further cement their ties in the face of international sanctions pressing their economies. Russia is under sanctions due to its aggression against Ukraine, while North Korea is sanctioned for its nuclear ambitions.

On his arrival in Russia on Tuesday, Kim stated that his government places "strategic importance" on relations with its northern neighbor, according to North Korea's state-run Korea Central News Agency Wednesday.

Choosing the Vostochny Cosmodrome as a venue may also signal that bilateral diplomacy has now expanded to scientific and technological collaboration.

The spaceport, located in the Far East of Russia, showcases Putin's aspirations to transform Russia into a leading space power. The facility was built with the objective of cutting Russia's reliance on Kazakhstan's Baikonur Cosmodrome. Apart from being a launching site, the complex is positioned as a technological and economic hub, promoting advancements of Russia's aerospace industry.

Given the significance of the venue, and Putin's offer to aid Kim in perfecting his satellite technology, the summit is set to entail discussions to deepen cooperation in the aerospace industry. Enhanced cooperation in the sector may risk international security as it would most likely advance Pyongyang's missile technology. Rocket technology can be used for both launching satellites and missiles. For that reason, the UN bans North Korea from launching a ballistic rocket, even if it claims to be a satellite launch.

Technology transfer

The possibility of technology transfer has become significant and highly plausible based on the makeup of Kim's delegation to Russia. Ri Pyong-chol, vice chairman of the ruling Workers' Party's Central Military Commission and Pak Jong-chon, newly-appointed head of the party's military political leadership, are part of the entourage, according to a Korean Central News Agency report released on Tuesday.

The top military figures in the delegation may indicate Pyongyang's interest in attaining Russia's military technology and its defense ties with Moscow, which could boost its deterrence capability against the U.S. and its regional allies.

"Kim has always asserted his right of 'peaceful use of space', and demonstrated his commitment to acquiring the relevant technology," said Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul who has advised the South Korean government over the years.

"The meeting at the Vostochny Cosmodrome is not only symbolic, but could also mean an actual transfer of space technology. In particular, the launch of a reconnaissance satellite in October will be seen as a must."

So far this year, North Korea has failed to successfully launch what it described as "satellites". The Malligyong-1 satellite, mounted on the new-type Chollima-1 rocket, lost thrust over the Yellow Sea in May. A second attempt last month also failed. North Korea has planned for a third try next month, according to the Korean Central News Agency.

The relevant Russian technology transfer may accelerate the North's technological progress and help Kim attain success in the third test. "From Russia's point of view, satellite technology may be less likely to be criticized by the international community," Yang added.

"I think that Russia sharing its advanced technologies and expertise with North Korea will help Pyongyang to catch up with South Korea, which has more sophisticated weapons systems," said Ramon Pacheco Pardo, Professor of International Relations at King's College London and the KF-VUB Korea Chair at the Brussels School of Governance of Vrije Universiteit Brussel.

Potential backlash from Asia to Europe

The broadening scope of bilateral collaboration and diplomacy "may serve as a rationale for increased cooperation among regional allies and, by extension, military cooperation among ROK, U.S.and Japan," pointed out Park Won-gon, an associate professor in the department of North Korean studies at Ewha Womans University.

Granted, South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol has repeatedly warned Pyongyang and Moscow that Seoul would strengthen its military ties with its allies if North Korea's provocation shows no signs of easing.

"North Korea's nuclear threat is a practical threat to South Korea," Yoon said during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, where he also told his ministers of his conversation with China's premier Li Qiang last week. "The more serious the North Korean nuclear issue becomes, the stronger the relations among ROK, U.S. and Japan. Would become," Yoon had told Li.

Park said, beyond enhancing the trilateral cooperation between the US, South Korea and Japan, the summit could have ramifications for NATO in its engagement with Pyongyang.

"Russia is the country that started the war in Ukraine. If North Korea were to intervene in the Ukraine war and provide weapons, it would most likely turn all NATO countries against itself," Park noted.

Experts note that any ammunition supplies to Russia may prolong its aggression against Ukraine, could risk the current security situation in Europe. Ammunition supplies from North Korea could enable Russia to further advance deeper into Ukrainian territories.

NATO has been imposing multiple sanctions on Russia to curb its expansionist ambition. North Korea may be subjected to NATO's upcoming sanctions, should there be solid evidence of it supplying ammunition, Park said.

Edited by Elaine Chan and Taejun Kang.

Story updated throughout with details of Kim-Putin summit.

Copyright 1998-2016, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content September not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's answer to a question from the Moscow. Kremlin. Putin programme, September 13, 2023

13 September 2023 10:40

1755-13-09-2023

Question: Russia still maintains sanctions against North Korea. How does this agree with the new stage in relations with Pyongyang?

Sergey Lavrov: Sanctions against North Korea were introduced in a totally different geopolitical situation. At that time, there were problems with starting a dialogue and there were pointed debates at the UN Security Council. But in 2017, when the latest resolution was approved, we said firmly that there would be no further sanctions against North Korea. Our Chinese partners adopted an identical position. This was primarily because all our Western colleagues promised to follow the political track and address humanitarian issues in parallel with the measures pursued by the UN Security Council. This was yet another lie. They deceived us, along with the Chinese, and the North Koreans.

In May 2022, therefore, when the Americans wanted to approve yet another resolution on sanctions, we blocked its passing. Moreover we and our Chinese friends drafted a resolution aimed entirely at solving the DPRK's grave humanitarian problems and at resuming the political process as part of the project to strengthen security in Northeast Asia. Instead, the Americans, along with South Korea and Japan, as well as the British, the Australians, and potentially New Zealand, are rushing weapons to the area. They are also transferring elements of their strategic forces to the south of the Korean Peninsula and discussing the possibility of their nuclear weapons being deployed under this or that guise in South Korea and Japan. Their flat refusal to become involved in any political measures dooms to failure any further attempts to push a sanctions resolution through the UN Security Council.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's answers to questions from the Moscow.Kremlin.Putin television programme, September 13, 2023

13 September 2023 13:11

1756-13-09-2023

Question: Can we lift the sanctions against North Korea?

Sergey Lavrov: We did not impose any sanctions on North Korea. They were imposed by the UN Security Council. You should address this question to the council. We will continue to develop equal and fair cooperation with the DPRK.

Question: What is your opinion on the numerous articles in the Western media claiming that either North Korea is about to supply weapons to us or vice versa?

Sergey Lavrov: I have stopped paying attention to what the Western media report, especially after the West breached every possible contractual obligation. Specifically, by supplying a great amount of Soviet and Russian military equipment from the Western countries (tanks, armoured vehicles and artillery) to the Kiev regime, in full violation of the end use certificates, according to which those weapons must not be transferred anywhere without the selling party's consent.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






North Korea Reportedly Fires Off Two Ballistic Missiles Toward Sea of Japan

Sputnik News

20230913

The reported Wednesday launches took place after the North Korea leadership traveled to Russia's Far East to participate in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

North Korea reportedly fired off two ballistic missiles on Wednesday toward the Sea of Japan, marking its latest launch in two weeks.

Local media reported the launch was announced by the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff, and that it remained under pending analysis by authorities. No additional details were released.

The launch was further confirmed by the Japanese Ministry of Defense, which wrote on social media that the detected projectile "could be a ballistic missile."

It was reported by the Japanese Coast Guard that the projectile had already landed; however, moments later, the service detailed that a second object - believed to be a ballistic missile - was detected.

No additional information has been released regarding the second object.

The launch comes on the heels of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's trip to Russia, where he discussed a variety of bilateral topics with Russian counterparts. The meeting proved to be Kim's first meeting abroad since 2019, when he traveled to Vladivostok to take part in his first summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

A Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia-North Korea Military Cooperation Concerns US

By Nike Ching September 13, 2023

White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters Wednesday the United States has concerns about any kind of potential defense cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

Kirby said the U.S. is carefully monitoring the contacts between Moscow and Pyongyang.

"No nation on the planet, nobody should be helping Mr. Putin kill innocent Ukrainians. And if they decide to move forward with some sort of arms deals, well, obviously we'll take a measure of that, and we'll deal with it appropriately," he said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin met Wednesday with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at Russia's most advanced spaceport amid warnings from the U.S. and South Korea against a potential arms transfer.

Kim pledged his "full and unconditional support" for "all decisions" by Putin, in an apparent reference to Russia's war on Ukraine, during talks at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Amur region of Russia's Far East, near the Chinese border.

Kim also invited Putin to visit North Korea and Putin accepted, North Korean state media reported.

"Kim Jong Un courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK at a convenient time," according to KCNA, referring to North Korea by its official name.

Earlier, media reports quoted unidentified Western officials as saying Russia hopes to receive North Korean artillery shells for use in the war in Ukraine, while Pyongyang appears to want advanced technology for its satellites and nuclear-powered submarines, as well as food assistance from Moscow.

"We need to discuss the issues of economic cooperation and humanitarian issues, as well as the situation in the region," Putin told Kim.

The two first toured the spaceport, where reporters asked if Russia would help North Korea build satellites.

"That's why we came here," Putin said, according to Russian state media. "The leader of the DPRK shows great interest in rocket engineering; they are also trying to develop space."

DPRK refers to North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

As Kim visited Russia Wednesday, North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles into the sea off its eastern coast. South Korea's military said the missiles were launched from near Pyongyang and flew about 650 kilometers.

Ahead of the talks, South Korean officials said they were closely monitoring the first meeting between Kim and Putin in four years.

"Cooperation between Russia and North Korea should be made in the direction of contributing to peace and prosperity on the Korean peninsula while adhering to the relevant U.N. Security Council resolutions," a spokesperson from South Korea's foreign ministry said on Wednesday.

The U.S. and South Korea have renewed warnings to North Korea not to provide munitions to Russia that could be used in the war in Ukraine.

"Any transfer of arms from North Korea to Russia would violate multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions," said U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller during a Tuesday briefing. "We will monitor what happens and will not hesitate to take action to hold those accountable if necessary."

Analysts have taken note of China's silence on the Putin-Kim talks. They said China is cautiously managing the situation and reluctant to be drawn into the controversy as the world eyes the arms deal talks between North Korea and Russia.

"China does not have to broadcast its position" on the summit and thereby highlight tensions over Ukraine as it prepares to host the Asian Games in Hangzhou, according to Jung Dae-jin, the director of the Han Peace Institute at Halla University in South Korea.

Others, including Professor Lee Byong-Chol from Kyungnam University's Institute for Far Eastern Studies, question whether Russia is willing to provide North Korea with advanced technology.

Lee told VOA Wednesday that Russia will transfer technology to North Korea, as requested by Kim, but Moscow will only transfer very basic technology.

Russian media reported that Kim and Putin had no plans to sign official documents after concluding their one-on-one meeting. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday the talks were "important and substantive."

Kim held his first summit with Putin on April 25, 2019, in the Russian port city of Vladivostok.

Cindy Saine and Lee Juhyun contributed to this report. Some information came from Associated Press and Reuters.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






North Korea Fires Missiles as Kim is Abroad for a Rare Summit with Putin

By Nike Ching September 13, 2023

North Korea fired two ballistic missiles into the sea off its east coast, South Korea said on Wednesday.

The latest launches came as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is in Russia for talks with President Vladimir Putin.

South Korea's military said it detected two short-range ballistic missiles launched from the Sunan area into the East Sea around 11:43 to 11:53 on Wednesday morning.

"Our military will closely monitor North Korea's activities in preparation for further provocations, in close cooperation with the United States, while maintaining a firm readiness posture based on the ability to respond overwhelmingly to any provocation," said South Korea's National Security Council.

The council added that North Korea's repeated missile launches are "a significant provocation that harms peace and prosperity" on the Korean peninsula and in the international community.

Wednesday's launches were the first to occur while Kim was on a rare trip abroad.

They are the latest in a series of missile tests and military exercises conducted by North Korea in recent weeks. Pyongyang launched several cruise missiles toward the Yellow Sea on September 2, following its firing of a pair of short-range ballistic missiles from the Sunan area toward waters east of the peninsula on August 30.

In Tokyo, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary, Hirokazu Matsuno, told reporters at a news conference that Japan had lodged a formal protest with North Korea through Japan's embassy in Beijing.

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also instructed related ministries to gather information and ensure the safety of aircraft and ships.

United Nations Security Council resolutions ban all North Korea's ballistic missile and nuclear weapons activities. Officials in Seoul and in Tokyo said they strongly condemn Pyongyang's missile launches and urged North Korea to stop them immediately.

Lee Juhyun contributed to this report.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






New Milestone for Development of DPRK-Russia Relations Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Has Historic Meetingwith President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putinat Vostochny Spaceport

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, September 14 (KCNA) -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, had a historic meeting with Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, president of the Russian Federation, at the Vostochny Spaceport in Amur Oblast of the Far Eastern Region on September 13.

The traditional relations of friendship between the DPRK and the Russian Federation, consolidated in trials of history generation after generation and century after century, are further developing into the invincible comrade-in-arms relations and the ever-lasting strategic relations amid the deep friendship and special fellowship between Comrades Kim Jong Un and Putin.

The Vostochny Spaceport was in a warm welcoming atmosphere to greet Kim Jong Un paying an official goodwill visit to the Russian Federation for the new development of the DPRK-Russia friendly and cooperative relations with proudly excellent history and tradition.

The private train of Kim Jong Un arrived at the Vostochny Spaceport at 13:00 local time.

When he got off the train, the guard of honor of the three services of the armed forces of the Russian Federation courteously received him with deepest respect.

He exchanged greetings with Alexandr Kozlov, minister of Natural Resources and Ecology, and other Russian leading officials and headed for the venue of the meeting with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin.

He was accompanied by Choe Son Hui, foreign minister of the DPRK, Marshals of the Korean People's Army Ri Pyong Chol and Pak Jong Chon, Kang Sun Nam, minister of National Defence of the DPRK, O Su Yong and Pak Thae Song, secretaries of the C.C., WPK, and other senior party, government and military officials and suite members.

The national flags of the DPRK and the Russian Federation were fluttering before the carrier rocket assembly and test complex where the top leaders of the DPRK and Russia would meet.

When Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the WPK and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK arrived, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, president of the Russian Federation, warmly greeted him.

He gladly met and exchanged friendly greetings with President Putin.

President Putin warmly welcomed him visiting the Russian Federation again at a significant and crucial time for the development of the Russia-DPRK relations.

Expressing thanks to President Putin for warmly inviting and receiving him despite his busy schedule for leading the overall state affairs, Kim Jong Un said that he was pleased with the meeting being held in a very exceptional and special environment.

He, together with President Putin, visited the Vostochny Spaceport.

He was guided by Yuri Borisov, general manager of the Russian state-run corporation Roscosmos, and Nikolai Nestechuk, director general of the Center for the Operation of Ground-based Space Infrastructure.

The Vostochny Spaceport is a comprehensive space launching base of Russia that has contributed to the remarkable growth of space development by successfully ensuring the launches of space capsules and satellites for different applications, playing an important role in promoting the socio-economic development of Amur Oblast and the Far Eastern Region.

Visiting the carrier rocket assembly and test complex, together with President Putin, Kim Jong Un was briefed on the detailed technical features of Soyuz-2, Angara and other type carrier rockets and their assembling and launching processes.

He also looked round the Soyuz-2 carrier rocket launching complex and the Angara carrier rocket launching complex under construction, being told about the state of their operation and construction, successes and experience gained by Russia in the field of space industry and the prospects for future development.

Highly appreciating the fact that the Vostochny Spaceport, successfully built under the strategic space development plan of President Putin, has achieved invaluable successes, he sincerely hoped that the noble spirit and traditions of strong Russia which explored the path to space would be successfully carried forward.

He expressed deep thanks to President Putin for personally organizing the visit to the important spaceport with sincerity and accompanying him during the visit.

Putin showed his private car to Kim Jong Un before having a warm talk.

Kim Jong Un left his autograph in the visitor's book - "The glory of Russia that produced the first conquerors of space will be immortal. Kim Jong Un 2023. 9. 13". -0-

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Has Talks with Russian President

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, September 14 (KCNA) -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, had talks with Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, president of the Russian Federation, on September 13.

Comrade Kim Jong Un and Comrade Putin had a significant photo taken with the national flags of the two countries in the background before the talks.

There took place talks between the two top leaders.

Present at the talks from the DPRK side were Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui, Korean People's Army Marshal Pak Jong Chon, Minister of National Defence Kang Sun Nam, Secretaries of WPK Central Committee O Su Yong and Pak Thae Song and Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Im Chon Il.

Present from the Russian side were Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Deputy Prime Minister and concurrently Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Mantrov, Minister of Defence Sergei Shoigu, Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk, Deputy Prime Minister and concurrently Presidential Envoy to the Far East Federal Region Yuri Trutnev, Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin, Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration and Press Secretary for the President Dmitri Peskov, Minister of Natural Resources and Ecology and concurrently Chairman of the Russian side to the DPRK-Russia Inter-Governmental Committee for Cooperation in Trade, Economy, Science and Technology Alexandr Kozlov, Minister of Transport Vitaly Saveliev and other senior officials and officials concerned, and Russian Ambassador to the DPRK Alexandr Matsegora.

On the occasion, Putin warmly welcomed Kim Jong Un for visiting Russia again at a meaningful year marking the 75th founding anniversary of the DPRK and the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and the DPRK, expressing his pleasure of meeting Kim Jong Un at the Vostochny Spaceport.

Expressing once again thanks to Putin for inviting the DPRK delegation at an important time and warmly hospitalizing it from the beginning of its visit, Kim Jong Un said he was pleased to have a more detailed and deeper understanding of the reality and future of Russia, a space power, at the Vostochny Spaceport to which Putin is paying deep attention.

It is the consistent stand of the DPRK government to attach utmost importance to the DPRK-Russia relations and invariably develop the tradition of deep-rooted friendship, he said, expressing belief that the visit would mark a significant occasion in raising the cooperative relations between the two countries to a new higher level.

The top leaders discussed the issues of further consolidating the friendship and solidarity and cooperative relations and boosting mutual trust by deepening the many-sided exchange and cooperation in various fields including high-level visits between the two countries.

At the talks there was wide-ranging and in-depth exchange of views on important issues of mutual concern. And they agreed to make joint efforts to promote the well-being of the peoples of the two countries and steadily expand the comprehensive and constructive bilateral relations.

There took place a tete-a-tete between Kim Jong Un and Putin after the extended talks.

Kim Jong Un highly appreciated that the relations between the two countries are developing on good terms in conformity with the aspirations and desire of the two peoples on the principle of friendship, good-neighborliness and mutual respect.

The top leaders of the DPRK and Russia exchanged in-depth views on the remarkable successes and experience of constructive cooperation gained in all fields of politics, economy, military and culture for attaining the strategic goals of building a powerful state, and the future development orientation for national prosperity and well-being of the peoples of the two countries.

They discussed with open mind the important issues and the immediate cooperation matters arising in defending the sovereignty and development and interests of the two countries, peace and security in the region and the world and international justice by further strengthening strategic and tactical cooperation between the two countries and extending strong support to and solidarity with each other on the common front to frustrate the imperialists' military threat and provocation, high-handed and arbitrary practices to plunder independence, progress and peaceful life of humankind, and reached a satisfactory agreement and consensus of views.

The talks proceeded in a comradely and constructive atmosphere. -0-

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






President Putin Hosts Reception in Welcome of Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, September 14 (KCNA) -- Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, president of the Russian Federation, hosted a reception on Wednesday in welcome of the Russia visit by Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

Before the reception President Putin presented the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un with a gift as a token of the meeting.

Kim Jong Un expressed thanks for it and offered his gift to Putin.

Invited to the reception were DPRK Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui, Marshals of the Korean People's Army Ri Pyong Chol and Pak Jong Chon, Minister of National Defence of the DPRK Kang Sun Nam, O Su Yong and Pak Thae Song, secretaries of the WPK Central Committee, and other accompanying officials.

Attending the reception on the Russian side were Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Deputy Prime Minister and concurrently Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Mantrov, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk, Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Envoy to the Far East Federal Region Yuri Trutnev, Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin, Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration and Press Secretary of the President Dmitri Peskov, Alexandr Kozlov, minister of Natural Resources and Ecology and chairman of the Russian side to the DPRK-Russia Inter-Governmental Committee for Cooperation in Trade, Economy, Science and Technology, Minister of Transport Vitaly Saveliev and other leading officials, officials concerned and Alexandr Matsegora, Russian ambassador to the DPRK.

When the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un appeared at the reception hall, guided by President Putin, all the participant warmly greeted with a loud applause the top leaders of the two countries who are further strengthening the firm and true DPRK-Russia friendly bonds.

President Putin made a congratulatory speech at the reception.

Saying that he warmly welcomes once again Kim Jong Un , president of the State Affairs of the DPRK who is an honored guest of Russia, and other friends from the DPRK, President Putin referred to the development history of the friendly and comradely goodwill relations between the Russian Federation and the DPRK.

The Russia-DPRK relations are invariably oriented to comradely and good neighborly relations as ever, he said, affirming the steadfast will of the Russian government to make consistent efforts for the development of the relations between the two countries and the wellbeing and prosperity of their peoples.

Kim Jong Un made a reply speech.

Saying that he was very pleased to meet President Putin and share a significant seat full of comradely friendship by visiting the Russian Federation again in four years and five months, he expressed his thanks to President Putin and officials concerned from the capital and of the Far Eastern Region for making great efforts to ensure his successful visit.

He also conveyed the militant respect and warm fraternal greetings of the DPRK people to all the Russian people who have turned out in the historic cause of building powerful Russia and firmly defending the strategic interests of the country.

He expressed his will to work out a far-reaching plan for the DPRK-Russia relations in the new era, stable and future-oriented, together with Putin, and to dynamically promote the powerful nation-building cause in the two countries and realize genuine international justice under the plan.

The reception proceeded in a familiar and amicable atmosphere overflowing with friendly feelings.

At the end of the reception, Kim Jong Un courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK at a convenient time.

Putin accepted the invitation with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history and tradition of the Russia-DPRK friendship.

Kim Jong Un said goodbye to Putin, wishing him good health and steady and good success in his important and responsible work for building powerful Russia.

He left for his next destination, being given a warm send-off by leading officials of Russia and the guard of honor of the three services of the armed forces of the Russian Federation.

The historic meeting and talks between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin serve as an epoch-making event that put the traditional and strategic DPRK-Russia friendship, cooperation and good neighborly relations on a new higher level and powerfully encouraged the just struggle for accomplishing the cause of independence against imperialism. -0-

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran censures IAEA Board of Governors statement, says West trying to distort facts

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Sep 13, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani has dismissed a statement by the UN nuclear watchdog's Board of Governors, saying that the West is trying to distort facts regarding his country's "sincere cooperation" with the International Atomic Energy Agency, the IAEA.

Kanaani made the comment on Wednesday after the Board of Governors issued its statement earlier in the day, which accused Iran of non-compliance with its safeguards commitments and urged the country to maintain cooperation with the IAEA to resolve the remaining issues.

The spokesman rejected the statement, which he said was pushed by the UK, the US, France and Germany.

He said the cooperation between Iran and the IAEA has increased significantly in accordance to a mutual statement announced in early 2023.

This, he added, has resulted in the resolution of several technical issues and more interaction between the two sides, while talks are underway to resolve the remaining technical issues.

It is regrettable that the UK, the US, France and Germany are using Iran-IAEA technical cooperation as a tool for their political moves against the Islamic Republic, the official said.

He added that the four Western states are seeking to distort facts about Iran's sincere cooperation with the IAEA through their propaganda campaign in the Board of Governors and under the pretext of defending the agency and its safeguards system.

Kanaani meanwhile thanked a group of countries for their support, which he said opposed "the West's unconstructive stance" and signed another statement that backed Iran-IAEA cooperation and hailed the progress made.

The foreign ministry spokesman said that the Islamic Republic will give a proper response to the political move by the three European countries, the UK, France and Germany, and will inform the IAEA chief about that response.

Undoubtedly, exerting political pressure against the Islamic Republic at the Board of Governors will backfire, Kanaani warned.

4194

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran regains position as third-largest OPEC producer

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Sep 13, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- Iran has produced as much as 3 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil in August to regain its position as the third-largest crude oil producer among OPEC member countries, according to the latest OPEC data.

The Tuesday OPEC report suggests that Iran's August crude output is up 143 bpd compared to figured reported in July, the IRNA reported on Wednesday.

Iran was ranked the third-largest OPEC producer following Saudi Arabia (with an output of 8.967 million bpd) and Iraq (with an output of 4.277 million bpd).

Eight OPEC member countries have increased their output in August, with Iran posting the biggest month-on-month increase (143 bpd), the report said.

It added that the total output of 13 OPEC member countries hit 27.449 million bpd in August up 113 bpd from 27.336 million bpd reported in July.

9341**7129

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






West issues anti-Iran statement at IAEA Board of Governors

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Sep 13, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- In a joint statement issued during a meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors, Western countries accused Iran of non-compliance with its safeguards commitments and urged the country to maintain cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog to resolve the remaining issues.

The statement, signed by 62 member countries of the IAEA on Wednesday, called upon Iran to take steps to address outstanding safeguards issues and provide necessary information about the level of enriched uranium at the Isfahan nuclear power plant, IRNA reported.

The statement also urged Iran to promptly provide the IAEA with information concerning its new nuclear facilities, as a necessary step not only to ensure the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program but also the efficacy of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

Simultaneously, nine countries, including Venezuela, China, Belarus, Cuba, Nicaragua, Iran, Zimbabwe, Russia, and Syria, issued a joint statement expressing their support for Tehran's level of cooperation with the IAEA.

The statement, read by Syria's representative, emphasized that Iran's interactions with the agency should be carried out in a non-political manner, free from external interference, and aimed at resolving the outstanding issues.

Safeguards concerns about Iran's nuclear program were raised anew four years ago when the IAEA opened a new case against the country based on fabricated documents provided by the Israeli regime, alleging uranium traces at four undeclared locations in Iran, according to IRNA.

Separately on Wednesday, the three European signatories of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran issued a joint statement on the sidelines of the meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors.

Representatives from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany (E3) accused Iran of non-compliance with the nuclear deal, officially called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), without mentioning which side was responsible for the current state of the landmark accord.

The E3 echoed their previous accusations against Iran regarding the lack of progress in the Vienna process to revive the JCPOA, which was unilaterally abandoned by the United States in 2018, putting the deal's fate in limbo.

"Regrettably, Iran's actions remain in clear violation of its JCPOA commitments and stated intentions," the statement said.

"Iran has continued escalating its nuclear program to an alarming level clearly beyond credible civilian justification, and has displayed no will to implement the transparency commitments laid out in the Joint Statement agreed with the IAEA last March," it added.

It was referring to a joint statement issued by Iran and the UN nuclear watchdog following a visit by IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi to Tehran in March, pledging cooperation until differences were resolved.

Iran has scaled back its commitments under the JCPOA in several phases as enshrined in Articles 26 and 36 of the UN-endorsed accord, starting a year after the US withdrew from the deal and re-imposed its sanctions against Tehran.

4353**7129

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






No anti-Iran resolution expected at IAEA meeting: Nuclear chief

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Sep 13, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- The head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) says the meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)'s Board of Governors is unlikely to conclude with an anti-Iran resolution.

"Political moves can be made by any group at any moment, yet the current trend does not show that the atmosphere will go toward a resolution or move that would compel Iran to take firm and decisive legal reactions," Mohammad Eslami told reporters on the sidelines of a cabinet session on Wednesday.

Eslami further explained that the four safeguards issues between Iran and the IAEA have been reduced to two, given Iran's cooperation with the agency and its clarifications of the issues.

Those cases were rooted in the enmities against Iran, as well as efforts to frame the country and accusations leveled against the Islamic Republic by its enemies, he said.

"We are facing enemies who have been raising these issues for 22 years, and we have always cooperated [with the IAEA] patiently, very transparently and interactively," the Iranian nuclear chief added.

Safeguards questions about Iran's nuclear program were raised four years ago when the IAEA opened a new case against the country based on fake documents provided by the Israeli regime alleging uranium traces at four undeclared locations in Iran.

Iran has repeatedly rejected the allegations, which were initially made by Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and subsequently echoed by Western media and officials.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Eslami said as long as the West does not fulfill its obligations under the US-abandoned nuclear deal and the sanctions are not terminated, Iran will continue to exceed the limits on its nuclear activities.

"European countries cannot expect us to fully implement the JCPOA (nuclear deal) while they do not fulfill any of their obligations," he said.

Iran and six world powers - the US, Russia, China, France, Britain, and Germany - signed the JCPOA in 2015. In an unprovoked move, however, the US left the deal in 2018 and reinstated the sanctions that the deal had lifted.

4354**9417

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Tehran slams West-sponsored statement critical of Iran-IAEA cooperation

Iran Press TV

Wednesday, 13 September 2023 7:33 PM

Tehran has rejected a Western-sponsored anti-Iran statement issued during the IAEA's Board of Governors meeting on Wednesday, saying it is politically motivated.

The statement accused Iran of non-compliance with its safeguards commitments. The document, signed by 62 IAEA member states, called upon Iran to take steps to address outstanding safeguards issues and provide the IAEA with information concerning its new nuclear facilities.

Nasser Kan'ani, the spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, said Iran and the IAEA have made "considerable progress" in boosting cooperation based on a joint statement issued in March.

He said this course has led to the settlement of several issues, and talks are ongoing on the settlement of other issues, which he said are of political origins.

The spokesman stressed that Iran is committed to cooperation with the agency under the safeguards agreement with the IAEA.

"It's a regret that England, Germany, France and the US, which have certain motivations and positions against Iran, have made Iran-IAEA technical cooperation a subject of their political moves," he said, adding that the Western states did this in the name of defending the agency and the safeguards, but they aimed to distort the reality of Iran's sincere cooperation with the agency.

"Of course this measure is not new and also not surprising. In the previous Board of Governors meeting, they had a similar show in the form of verbal attacks and accusations against Iran," he said.

The spokesman said Iran will show reaction to the latest move as soon as possible, stressing that attempts at placing pressure on Iran at the IAEA's Board of Governors would backfire.

He also hailed a statement in support of the Iran-IAEA cooperation issued by nine countries during the Board of Governors meeting on Wednesday.

That statement, signed by countries including China, Russia, Syria and Venezuela, supported Tehran's cooperation with the IAEA. It said that Iran's interactions with the agency should be carried out in a non-political manner, free from external interference, and aimed at resolving the outstanding issues.

Iran has scaled back its commitments under the JCPOA in several phases as stipulated in Articles 26 and 36 of the UN-endorsed accord, starting a year after the US withdrew from the deal and re-imposed its sanctions against Tehran.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iranian top general denies military build-up at Iran-Azerbaijan border regions

Iran Press TV

Wednesday, 13 September 2023 5:29 PM

Iran's top general has denied media speculation that the country is building up troops at the country's border with Azerbaijan amid persisting tensions in the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

The chief of General Staff of Iran's Armed Forces, Major General Mohammad Baqeri, made the remarks in a phone conversation with Azerbaijan's Defense Minister Zakir Hasanov on Wednesday.

The phone call came as Armenia has warned that Azerbaijan is massing troops on the countries' shared border and near Nagorno-Karabakh, raising fears it could launch a military operation to grab some areas there.

In recent months, Armenia and Azerbaijan have traded accusations of cross-border attacks.

During the phone conversation, General Baqeri reiterated Iran's policy that the Nagorno-Karabakh region belongs to Azerbaijan, and stressed the country's readiness to help facilitate a final settlement of the long-running dispute over the region.

According to a statement by the General Staff of Iran's Armed Forces, the two sides reaffirmed their opposition to interventions by extra-regional powers in the affairs of the Caucuses region.

Hasanov, for his part, said Azerbaijan respects other countries' sovereignty and does not seek to encroach on its neighbors' territories.

The Azerbaijani minister proposed holding joint drills between the two countries, and invited General Baqeri to pay a visit to Azerbaijan.

Located in the South Caucasus, the landlocked region of Nagorno-Karabakh has been at the center of a dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia for more than three decades.

Since gaining independence from the former Soviet Union in 1991, the two neighboring countries have fought two wars, in 1994 and 2020, over the mountainous territory.

Karabakh is recognized as part of Azerbaijan by the international community although it has a predominantly Armenian population that has opposed Azerbaijani governance since the separatist war in 1994.

Tensions remain high and skirmishes along the shared border are a regular occurrence despite mediation efforts by the European Union, the United States and Russia.

Russia brokered a peace deal between the two sides in November 2020, bringing an end to a 44-day war in the region. It has since deployed about 2,000 troops to the region to serve as peacekeepers.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






IAEA governors unlikely to issue anti-Iran resolution: Iran nuclear chief

Iran Press TV

Wednesday, 13 September 2023 11:10 AM

Iran's nuclear chief has said that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors is unlikely to issue another resolution against the Islamic Republic.

Speaking on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting in Tehran on Wednesday, Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), said the IAEA Board of Governors meeting in Vienna on September 11-15 may see political moves against Iran but the agency will not adopt any anti-Iran resolutions.

"Any political move may be made by any group at any moment," he told reporters, adding, however, "the current trend does not indicate a push towards a resolution or actions, which would coerce Iran into taking strong and decisive legal reactions."

The remarks came after the European Union claimed that Iran has not taken necessary steps to return to its commitments under the 2015 US-abandoned nuclear agreement and that no progress has been made in implementing the March joint statement between Tehran and the IAEA.

Eslami said that it is not possible for the European countries to renege on their own obligations under the nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), but expect Iran to fully honor its commitments.

"Our measures are in line with the Strategic Action Plan to Counter Sanctions," he asserted, referring to the law, which was approved by the Iranian parliament in December 2020 in a bid to counter illegal sanctions imposed on Iran by the United States and its Western allies after US unilateral withdrawal from the nuclear deal in 2018.

The legislation required the Iranian administration to restrict the IAEA inspections and accelerate the development of the country's nuclear program beyond the limits set under the JCPOA.

Eslami said, "As long as they (the Europeans) fail to fulfill their obligations and sanctions are not completely removed, it is natural that we will continue the same trend, something that is also evident in the agency's report."

He also noted that Iran has been cooperating with the IAEA "patiently" and "transparently" in the face of the enemies that have fabricated a case against Iran and leveled accusations at the country.

Iran and the IAEA are in a dispute triggered by the agency's Israeli-influenced accusations, which were leveled against Tehran's peaceful nuclear activities. The IAEA insisted on investigating what it claims to be "uranium traces" found at "undeclared nuclear sites" in Iran.

"The four issues related to the safeguards agreement have been reduced to two. We are still holding talks (with the IAEA). Necessary clarifications have been made and we have submitted many documents to the agency," he emphasized.

According to a report in late May, during technical negotiations between Iran and the UN nuclear watchdog, the case of one of the alleged "undetected" sites raised by the agency (known as Abadeh) has been closed.

This brings the number of cases concerning the alleged "undetected" sites claimed by the IAEA to two, the report said, adding that IAEA's claims about uranium particles with 83.7 purity found at the undeclared nuclear sites in Iran have also been settled.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UN Fact-Finding Mission On Deadly Iran Protest Crackdown Met With Silence By Tehran

By Mehdi Beigi September 13, 2023

When the United Nations established a fact-finding mission on Iran in November, the intention was to investigate alleged human rights violations related to the country's deadly crackdown against ongoing nationwide protests.

But as the anniversary of the beginning of those protests approaches, and the estimated number of protester deaths related to the crackdown exceeds 500, the mission is still struggling to get information from the Iranian authorities.

Shaheen Sardar Ali, a prominent British-Pakistani law professor who is one of three members of the fact-finding mission, spoke to RFE/RL's Radio Farda this week about the problems the team continues to encounter and explains how the failure to provide information works to Tehran's detriment.

Ali described the mission's exhaustive efforts to uncover and verify cases of abuse, including arbitrary detentions and enforced disappearances as well as torture and other ill-treatment.

She also explained the laborious and often futile process of appealing to the Iranian government to provide information about specific cases regarding Iran's crackdown against the protests, which broke out following Masha Amini's death in police custody on September 16, 2022.

"We have received masses of information from a variety of sources, both within the country and from outside the country, about a range of allegations of human rights violations," Ali explained.

"Primarily, we are looking and investigating the death in custody of Jina Mahsa Amini," she added. "We know that really sparked and gave impetus to the protests last year. And we are conducting a very, very in-depth investigation into the death with a view to understand who [was responsible], and to try and hold someone accountable."

Ali also said that the mission is working to look into claims of repression and the state's use of excessive and lethal force against protesters.

This includes, she said, force that resulted not only in deaths and injuries to protesters but to bystanders and passersby "who just happened to be in the area when the protests were happening, including women and children."

In July, in its most recent official statement on its investigations, the fact-finding mission called on Iran to "end its continuing crackdown on peaceful protesters and halt the wave of executions, mass arrests, and detentions" since the death of Amini, who died just days after her arrest by Iran's morality police for allegedly violating the country's controversial hijab law.

The mission also highlighted several concerns, including the deterioration of the human rights of those involved in the protests, particularly the rights of women and girls.

Women and girls, often showing their solidarity with Amini and anger at Iran's clerical leaders by removing their hijabs, played a prominent role in the nationwide protests.

The mission also decried that 22,000 people had been pardoned in connection with the protests -- a number that Ali said can be read to mean that 22,000 people were arrested -- and "were reportedly compelled to 'express remorse' for participating in the protests and to pledge not to commit 'similar crimes' in the future, in violation of their human rights."

At the time, no official data had been made publicly available regarding those "arrested, detained, charged, or convicted in connection with the protests," and arrests and detentions were continuing.

Ali said that since that time, the Iranian government has not responded to meticulously detailed letters requesting information on specific cases.

"The main concern that we have is that we are not being given access by the government of Iran, despite 14 letters," Ali said, emphasizing that the letters are not just "a few lines" and are critical "to get the viewpoint of the government."

Amini's case was the topic of one of the letters. The mission also wrote requesting information about Javad Ruhi, a protester who died under suspicious circumstances in prison last month.

Other letters sought information about the imprisonment of two journalists who covered the protests, and an uncle of Amini's who has repeatedly been taken into custody and questioned.

"It is unfortunate that the government of Iran does not want to share that information with us," Ali said.

If it were more forthcoming, she added, "this would be a more holistic investigation."

She also said that by not cooperating, the Iranian government is harming its ability to weigh in on its own claims of attacks made by protesters against security forces.

"And if the government has anything to offer to us to counter the rest of the information that we have received, this then would be a lost opportunity," she said.

Nevertheless, Ali said, the investigation is continuing at "full throttle," including the use of secure avenues of communication to collect sources' testimonies and "triangulating" all information to ensure its veracity.

"The challenge for us is to sift [through] it, to evaluate it, and to assess it," she said.

Referring to the mission's deadline to deliver its final report to the UN Human Rights Council in March, she said the goal is to complete a "credible, professional, and sound" assessment of what has taken place in Iran over the past year.

Written by Michael Scollon based on an interview conducted by RFE/RL Radio Farda correspondent Mehdi Beigi.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-protests-crackdown-united- nations-probe-silence/32591536.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






How Mahsa Amini's Death Became A Rallying Call For Thousands Of Iranians

By Michael Scollon, Fereshteh Ghazi September 13, 2023

Sharmin Habibi recalls the circumstances of her husband's killing at the hands of Iran's security forces. But she could be talking about any number of the protesters who died across the country during a brutal state crackdown on dissent over the past year.

"I was told that they did not kill him, that he must have had an enemy, that no officer had opened fire, and no bullets were fired," Habibi told RFE/RL's Radio Farda while speaking about the death of her husband, Fereydun Mahmudi.

More than 500 demonstrators have paid the ultimate price for expressing their outrage at the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian-Kurdish woman who died in police custody in Tehran on September 16, 2022, after being detained for allegedly violating the country's controversial hijab law.

The 32-year-old Mahmudi was among the first to die -- and the first in Amini's hometown of Saghez, in the northwestern Kurdistan Province -- for his support of what began as a local call for an investigation into the 22-year-old woman's suspicious death.

When the authorities responded with force and made clear they would not tolerate any dissent, the protests quickly spread as tens of thousands of people poured onto streets across the country.

The monthslong protests began as a rebuke against the brutal enforcement of the hijab, a key pillar of the Islamic republic. But they soon snowballed into one of the most sustained antiestablishment demonstrations against Iran's theocracy, with some protesters calling for an end to clerical rule and demanding their social and political freedoms.

The most sustained protests and the deadliest crackdowns during the demonstrations occurred in regions that are home to ethnic minorities, including Kurds, Azeris, and Baluch, which have long-standing grievances against the state.

Women, Life, Freedom

Just hours after Amini was taken into custody by Iran's morality police on September 13, 2022, she was lying in a coma in what would be her death bed in a Tehran hospital.

How she went from a visit to the Iranian capital with her family to a grave in Saghez within a week was the question that sparked months of unrest.

Based on eyewitness accounts, her family maintained that Amini had been beaten by the morality police while being driven to a Tehran detention facility. The family also refuted officials' claims that she had fallen into a coma after a dispute with guards due to a preexisting health condition. During her brief stay at the Kasra Hospital in northern Tehran, images of her bleeding from one of her ears cast further doubts on the official narrative.

Upon hearing news of Amini's death, dozens of people gathered in the vicinity of the hospital, pinning the blame for what they called a murder squarely on the clerical establishment that had just weeks before vowed to punish violators of the hijab law.

Gatherers, including women who had removed their hijab, chanted: "We will kill the one who killed our sister" and "Down with the dictator," in reference to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Security forces, wary that the loose-knit protest would spread, quickly stepped in to block off streets and beat back participants with batons and warning shots.

The Secret Is Out

On the day of Amini's death, Kurdish political parties called for a general strike to be held in Kurdistan Province on September 19 to protest what they called a "state crime."

But by the time Amini's body arrived in Saghez for burial on September 17, public anger in the province -- where residents have long accused the authorities of suppressing and discriminating against the Kurdish ethnic minority -- was already at a fever pitch.

Backed by a large crowd that assembled before dawn in front of the small city's cemetery, Amini's family prevented security forces from burying her in secret, and announced that they would hold their own funeral late that evening.

"They tried to pressure us to bury Mahsa [in secret], which I said I would not allow under any circumstances and that the people and families and even her mother should be present," said Amini's father, Ahmad Amini. "At my insistence, the [funeral] plan was changed."

He also fiercely denied claims by Iranian officials that his daughter had had brain surgery at the age of five that may have contributed to her death, saying she was "perfectly healthy" and lamented that his request that a coroner examine bruises on her body was refused.

"My concern is that the authorities are spreading lies about my daughter every day," Ahmad Amini said.

More arrests and violence ensued after some mourners attempted to march toward the local governor's office.

"After the burial, the atmosphere in the city was highly securitized," Bakhtiar Khoshnam, head of the Mukrian news agency in Saghez, told Radio Farda. "The situation in Saghez resembled undeclared and unofficial martial law."

A Rallying Cry

Ahead of the anniversary of Amini's death, Habibi explained her husband's motivations to join the general strike that had been called in Saghez.

"Why was he so upset? [Amini's] father said many times that there were no problems with her hijab, so why did they bring this calamity on this young girl?" Habibi told Radio Farda. "I said, 'I know you are upset. It is very difficult for me, too.'"

She begged Mahmudi not to go to the streets on September 19. But she said he could not get over the belief that he had to do something.

"I was sure he was going because he was very sad for Amini. He prayed and said goodbye to my son, but he didn't say anything to me," Habibi said.

"That night, when he did not come home, his cousin called and I told him that Fereydun had not returned," she added. "He said that many people had been arrested and I collected our documents to head [to the police station] with my son."

It was an experience that was repeated countless times across the country over the course of the year.

The local police initially denied Mahmudi had been arrested, before reversing course and telling her that he had, all the while pressing Habibi for information about who her husband had been in contact with.

"It was 3 or 4 in the morning when we found out that he had been shot" near a mosque, Habibi said. Mahmudi had been beaten, both of his hands had been broken, and his body was riddled with bullets, she said.

Local officials then denied security forces had killed him or that any shots had been fired. But Habibi said she was also warned against holding a funeral for Mahmudi, because they "didn't want a crowd" like the one that had turned out for Amini's burial.

Despite the threat of repercussions, Mahmudi's went ahead with the funeral, laying him to rest just 200 meters from Amini's grave.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-mahsa-amini-death- rallying-cry-iran-protests/32591019.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






E3 statement at IAEA Board of Governors on the JCPoA - September 2023

Germany, France and the UK (E3) gave a joint statement to the IAEA Board of Governors on Iran's implementation of its nuclear commitments under the JCPoA.

13 September 2023

Chair,

On behalf of France, the United Kingdom and Germany, I thank Director General Grossi for his latest report GOV/2023/39, and Deputy Director General Aparo for his technical briefing.

The E3 express their gratitude to the Agency for the professional and impartial work of its inspectors and the objective reporting on Iran's nuclear programme. We encourage the Director General to keep the Board informed of all activities and developments requiring clarification by Iran.

Regrettably, Iran's actions remain in clear violation of its JCPoA commitments and stated intentions. Iran has continued escalating its nuclear programme to an alarming level clearly beyond credible civilian justification, and has displayed no will to implement the transparency commitments laid out in the Joint Statement agreed with the IAEA last March.

The IAEA reports show Iran has continued to accumulate enriched uranium far beyond JCPoA limits, at 5%, 20% and, most alarming, at 60%. This means that the weight of Iran's enriched uranium stockpile is now over 18 times the amount permitted under the JCPoA. Furthermore, at this point, Iran possesses almost three IAEA significant quantities of high enriched uranium, this is almost three times the amount of high enriched uranium from which the IAEA cannot exclude the possibility of a nuclear device being manufactured.

Iran continues to carry out uranium enrichment activities in Fordow in violation of its JCPoA commitments. We recall that in January 2023 in Fordow, the Agency detected undeclared centrifuge configuration changes as well as particles of uranium enriched at 83.7%. The recorded instances of enrichment at this level constitute unprecedented and extremely grave steps.

The JCPoA limits Iran's enrichment capacity to 5060 IR-1 centrifuges installed at Natanz. Iran has blatantly disregarded JCPoA provisions regarding the quantity, type and location of centrifuges installed, as well as the manufacturing of centrifuges. In the latest reporting period, Iran has installed an additional cascade of advanced centrifuges at the Natanz Fuel Enriched Plant facility. Iran has therefore further expanded its ability to produce enriched uranium, and moved even further away from its JCPoA commitments. At the same time, Iran has continued to prepare the installation of additional advanced centrifuge cascades, including another eight cascades at the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant.

Iran has not allowed effective JCPoA verification and monitoring activities in relation to the production and inventory of centrifuges and key components, heavy water and uranium ore concentrate for more than two and a half years. We note that, as a result of Iran's sustained lack of transparency, the Agency would now face major challenges in establishing a new baseline to rebuild continuity of knowledge.

Given the seriousness of activities considered to be key steps for the development of a nuclear weapon, we also recall the significant work on uranium metal previously reported, and associated critical irreversible knowledge gains. We continue to urge Iran not to commence any further work related to the production of uranium metal, which also reduces the non-proliferation value of the JCPoA.

It is of utmost importance that Iran immediately implements the Joint Statement entirely; the removal of surveillance and monitoring equipment has had detrimental implications on the Agency's ability to provide assurance of the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme. We urge Iran to re-install all equipment in all the locations deemed necessary by the IAEA, and to provide access to all data recorded by the cameras, including from February 2021 to June 2022, as requested by the Agency.

Moreover, we are alarmed by Iran's obstructive attitude towards inspections. The de-designation of experienced inspectors and the denial of visas for IAEA officials signal Iran's unwillingness to cooperate fully with the Agency and to demonstrate the transparency required for the resumption of trust between Iran and the international community regarding the nature of Iran's nuclear programme.

We once again recall that, under its Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement, Iran is legally obliged to implement modified Code 3.1 and cannot change its application or withdraw from it unilaterally.

Chair,

Iran has been in violation of its JCPoA commitments for more than four years now. Furthermore, Iran has expanded its activities to unprecedented levels for a state without a nuclear weapons programme. As E3, we have repeatedly called upon Iran to resume full compliance, including by triggering the Dispute Resolution Mechanism (DRM) in January 2020. Since then, we have strived in good faith to resolve the issues arising from Iran's non-compliance through this procedure and beyond. We have made significant efforts to negotiate and agree a return to the JCPoA, for which viable deals were tabled in March and in August 2022. In both cases, it is Iran that refused to sign these agreements, making unacceptable demands going beyond the scope of the JCPoA.

Chair,

We will continue consultations, alongside international partners, on how best to address increasing doubts about the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme. We call upon Iran to de-escalate its programme and we expect swift and meaningful further steps to implement its Joint Statement commitments on IAEA verification and monitoring. We remain committed to taking every diplomatic step to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. We ask the Director General to keep the Board of Governors informed well ahead of the November meeting, and provide earlier updates as necessary, and would ask for this report to be made public.

Thank you.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






President Raisi: Iran won't tolerate presence of terrorists in Iraq

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Sep 13, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- President Ebrahim Raisi has told the Iraqi foreign minister that the Islamic Republic of Iran will not tolerate the presence of terrorist groups at its joint border with the Arab country or on Iraqi soil.

Raisi and Fuad Hussein held talks in Tehran on Wednesday afternoon hours after the top Iraqi diplomat began hist visit to Iran.

The president said that the presence of terrorist groups at Iran-Iraq border or on Iraqi soil is not tolerable for Tehran at all, stressing the need for fully implementing a security pact between the two countries.

Raisi also said that Iran has already proved that it stands by Iraq at difficult times when parts of the Arab country had been seized by the Daesh terror group.

The Iraqi foreign minister emphasized that his country is fully committed to its security pact with Iran.

Also, he added, Iraq will not allow any movement or group to deploy to its soil or use it to pose threats to the borders of neighbors, especially Iran.

Fuad Hussein referred to the continuous diplomatic meetings between the two countries as well, saying that they are a sign of firm and growing ties between the two countries.

4194

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iraq to fully enforce security pact with Iran: Amirabdollahian

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Sep 13, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian has said Iraq will fully execute a security agreement with Iran in the coming days to ensure terrorist groups in the border areas pose no threat to the Islamic Republic.

"Iraq will fully execute the provisions of the security agreement in the coming days," Amirabdollahian said at a joint press conference with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein in Tehran on Wednesday.

He stressed that the Islamic Republic is committed to the security of the country, expressing satisfaction with the progress made by Iraq in removing terrorists from areas close to the border with Iran.

The top diplomat said the central government in Baghdad and authorities in the Kurdistan region are cooperating to address the security threat along the border and are committed to implementing the security pact signed in March with Iran.

"Efforts are underway to disarm the terrorists and fully implement the provisions of the security agreement between the two countries," he added.

Hussein arrived in the Iranian capital on Wednesday morning at the head of a delegation.

During a meeting earlier in the day, the two foreign ministers discussed bilateral relations as well as regional developments and the need to implement the joint security agreement that was signed in Tehran in March.

Addressing reporters, Hussein expressed his gratitude to Iran for its clear stance in support of the Iraqi people.

He maintained that the Iraqi constitution prohibits any group from using Iraqi territory to launch attacks on other nations, adding that security cooperation between Tehran and Baghdad is in line with the Iraqi constitution.

Terrorist groups in the Iraqi Kurdistan region ramped up their activities against the Islamic Republic last year.

The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) responded by launching several rounds of airstrikes against their positions.

Iranian military leaders warned that the airstrikes would resume if Baghdad failed to disarm the terrorists by a deadline in September.

"We are working to disarm these groups and relocate them to facilities under the supervision of the United Nations," the Iraqi foreign minister said at the press conference.

The Islamic Republic has repeatedly warned it will give a decisive response if Iraqi territory along the border with Iran becomes a hub of terrorist activities against the country.

4353**7129

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Anti-Iran terrorists will be disarmed, transferred to UN camps: Iraqi FM

Iran Press TV

Wednesday, 13 September 2023 10:51 AM

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein says his country is committed to a security pact with Iran to disarm anti-Iran terrorist groups based in the Kurdistan region.

He made the remarks at a joint press conference with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in Tehran on Wednesday.

Hussein said the terrorist groups will be transferred to camps supervised by the United Nations.

He made clear that the Iraqi constitution does not allow any group to use Iraqi territory to attack other countries, saying the security agreement between the two neighboring countries is also based on the Arab country's constitution.

He also said the Baghdad government and the Kurdistan region are cooperating with each other in this regard and both stress the necessity of implementing the security agreement.

Amir-Abdollahian, for his part, said the Islamic Republic of Iran is serious when it comes to providing the country's national security.

Good information was exchanged regarding the removal of the terrorist groups from areas close to Iran's borders, he said.

"Efforts are underway to disarm them and fully implement the clauses of the security agreement between the two countries," he added.

Hussein arrived in the Iranian capital on Wednesday morning at the head of a delegation.

During a meeting earlier in the day, the two foreign ministers discussed bilateral issues as well as ways to expand cooperation in various fields. They also exchanged views on regional developments and the need to implement the security agreement between the two sides.

The visit comes two days after Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan'ani said the ultimatum given to Iraq to disarm anti-Iran separatist groups based in the Kurdistan regime will not be extended.

"Iran's stance is completely clear. According to the agreement reached with the Iraqi government, the final deadline for the disarmament of the terrorist and separatist forces in Iraq's Kurdistan region ends on September 19 and that deadline will not be extended in any way," Kan'ani said in a weekly press briefing in Tehran on Monday.

He noted that the Iraqi government has taken measures in this regard and has stressed that it will honor its commitments.

Also on Monday, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian warned that the presence of terrorists in the Iraqi Kurdistan region runs counter to the friendly ties between the two nations and contravenes the Constitution of Iraq.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Israel's top court begins to hear appeals against divisive judicial overhaul

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 08:52, September 13, 2023

JERUSALEM, Sept. 12 (Xinhua) -- Israel's Supreme Court opened hearings on Tuesday against a law passed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, part of the judicial overhaul that sparked nine months of nationwide demonstrations and divided the nation.

A panel comprising entire 15 judges of the Supreme Court convened for the first time in Israel's history to hear appeals against a newly passed law that cancels some of their power. In an unprecedented situation, the judges are required to decide whether to accept the restrictions on their own powers.

The appeals ask the court to strike down a major law passed by Netanyahu's far-right coalition in July, arguing that it is unconstitutional and would promote corruption.

The new law cancels the court's ability to override government decisions deemed "unreasonable," a standard rarely used by Israeli judges, typically reserving it for cases they regard as severely flawed or corrupted.

The law is a key part of Netanyahu's plan to weaken the judicial system, which was first presented in January and has thrown Israeli society into turmoil, harmed the economy and triggered mass refusals to show up for duty by military reservists.

"Can you hold a discussion of this question, without bias or predisposition, given that it is a matter of your status, your honor and your authority?" Simcha Rothman, a lawmaker in Netanyahu's coalition and one of the main architects of the overhaul, asked the court.

President of the Supreme Court Esther Hayut responded: "We are not discussing ourselves, neither our status nor our honor. We are discussing the public's vital interests."

It was not immediately clear when the ruling would be made, but according to state-owned Kan TV news, the court's decision is expected before January.

It was also not clear whether the government would abide by the ruling, as only four ministers announced that they would accept the Supreme Court's ruling even if it revokes the controversial law.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Myanmar junta steps up use of banned cluster bombs

The US and Myanmar have not signed an international convention banning the weapons that often kill civilians.

By RFA Burmese 2023.09.13 -- Myanmar's junta is using internationally-banned cluster bombs to attack rebel forces in ethnic areas of the country, said residents, officials from armed ethnic groups and an international campaign working to eradicate the weapons.

Cluster bombs, which can be fired from cannons or dropped from airplanes, explode in mid-air, releasing dozens or hundreds of smaller bombs that scatter and explode, often killing or maiming civilians.

Neither Myanmar nor the United States are among the 123 signatories to the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions, an international treaty outlawing the use of such weapons.

"Myanmar's production and use of cluster bombs is gravely concerning as these indiscriminate weapons primarily kill and injure civilians. There can be no justification for using them," said Yeshua Moser-Puangsuwan, a researcher with the Cluster Munition Monitor, the research and monitoring wing of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines-Cluster Munition Coalition based in Geneva, Switzerland.

"All governments should condemn this use of an internationally-banned weapon," he said.

In a report issued on Aug. 31, the Cluster Munition Coalition said the ruling junta has used domestically-produced cluster bombs in attacks in several parts of the country since 2021, including as recently as early this June.

For example, the junta used cluster munitions in attacks near the villages of Kon Tha, Nam Mae Kon, and Warisuplia, in Demoso township of Kayah state from Feb. 17 to Mar. 7, the CMC's report said.

The CMC also cited evidence that the Myanmar military used cluster bombs during an Apr. 16 airstrike on Pan Pa village in Chin state's Mindat township, which killed three people, including a child, and injured seven others.

Denial

Thein Tun Oo, executive director of the pro-military Thayninga Institute for Strategic Studies, denied that the military was using cluster bombs.

"As far as we understand, as far as we have studied so far, we have never heard of the military using cluster bombs," he said.

"Has the other side got any evidence?" he asked. "For example, the details of where and how a cluster bomb was dropped, [and] what the ground situation was like when it was dropped. They need these details to accuse."

Radio Free Asia could not reach junta spokesman Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun for comment.

Former military Capt. Kaung Thu Win, who joined the anti-regime civil disobedience movement, said unexploded submunitions from cluster bombs can detonate later from a mere touch of the hand and are a danger to children and rural residents.

"They will remain unexploded in forests, ditches and forest valleys," he said. "They are hidden for a while and explode only when children are playing near them or civilians go into the forests."

Spreading horror

Salai Htet Ni, spokesman of the Chin National Front, said the junta has been dropping cluster bombs in western Myanmar's Chin state, including on Mount Victoria, where the ethnic Chin nationalist political organization is based, for a long time.

When junta dropped bombs onto the group's headquarters from a plane, the explosions sent out submunitions that exploded again and again in a 61-meter (200-foot) radius, he said.

"And if they strike a forest, all nearby trees and plants are [destroyed], and they won't regrow," he said.

An official from the Karenni National Defense Force's information department said he has seen junta forces use cluster bombs to attack civilian communities in Kayah state, burning down homes in villages and wiping out entire neighborhoods.

"The junta usually uses these highly explosive cluster bombs when attacking nonmilitary targets [and] civilian areas or places where war refugees shelter," he said. "In 2023, the military started to frequently use 500-pound bombs, missiles and cluster bombs."

The junta's use of these weapons against civilian targets is a violation of international law and a crime against humanity, said Banyar Khun Aung, executive director of the Karenni Human Rights Group.

"The intention behind these cluster bombs ... is to deliberately kill and destroy a large number of the civilian population, causing mass casualties and forcing them to flee to other locations," he said. "That is evidently a horrible human rights violation."

Translated by Myo Min Aung for RFA Burmese. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster.

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content September not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Official: US pushing Laos to press Myanmar junta

Laos will chair ASEAN next year, and there are fears it wants to welcome the junta back into the bloc.

By Alex Willemyns for RFA 2023.09.13 -- The United States is working to ensure the Association of Southeast Asian Nations does not end a pressure campaign against Myanmar's military junta when Laos takes over as chair of the regional bloc from Indonesia next year, a top U.S. diplomat said on Wednesday.

The effort is due to fears the small country will not have the same leverage or resources as Indonesia when it comes to leading ASEAN's campaign for Myanmar to implement the bloc's five-point peace plan, said Melissa Brown, the deputy assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs in charge of Southeast Asia affairs.

"In addition to being less, perhaps, vocal and forward-leaning on ensuring that Burma is held accountable and forced to make progress on the five-point consensus and not getting legitimacy within ASEAN, there's also just the practical staffing capabilities," Brown said during a hearing of Congress's Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission.

"Laos is a much smaller country with less capacity," she said, adding that the United States was providing "the assistance that we can."

Laos, which has a population of 7.5 million people, next year takes over the rotating chairmanship of ASEAN from Indonesia, with a population 273 million. Indonesian President Joko Widodo last week handed over the ceremonial gavel to Laotian Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone at the ASEAN Summit in Jakarta.

Brown, who served as the charge d'affaires of the U.S. mission to ASEAN between 2019 and 2021, said Indonesia's move to create a specific office with staff dedicated to responding to the Myanmar crisis showed "greater leadership on the issue" than in years past.

Brunei held the ASEAN chairmanship during the 2021 coup d'etat in Myanmar, and Cambodia held the mantle last year before passing it to Indonesia. After Laos next year, Malaysia takes over in 2025.

However, Brown did not specify what U.S. officials are doing in preparation for the chairmanship of Laos, which observers fear could allow junta ally China to pressure ASEAN into a softer stance.

"We're trying to do some of the early work as the United States, but also with other dialogue partners - speaking to ASEAN as a collective, speaking to ASEAN member states separately - of: How can we ensure that some of this momentum continues?" she said.

Skipping Myanmar

Myanmar's generals have been banned from attending high-level ASEAN meetings, and last week's summit also included a decision to strip Myanmar of its turn in 2026 at the yearlong chairmanship - which goes through alphabetical order - and skip to the Philippines.

Rep. Ilhan Omar, a Democrat from Minnesota, said during the hearing on Wednesday that she recently visited Indonesia and met with the ASEAN special envoy for Myanmar, Ngurah Swajaya. She said it was clear Indonesia was concerned about Laos taking over the chair role.

"There was a lot of anxiety, from the heads of Indonesia, that the progress that they've desperately worked for would be undermined because the upcoming chair has a more favorable opinion" of Myanmar's military government, she said, "and obviously countries like Vietnam and Thailand also do."

Tom Andrews, the U.N. special rapporteur for Myanmar, replied that the issue of international support for the junta was a major concern.

But he told the hearing he did not want to call out Laos, Vietnam or Thailand as potential confederates of the military junta "until they have a chance to demonstrate leadership" on the Myanmar conflict.

"It's not only within ASEAN," Andrews said. "Other countries ... are trying to provide legitimacy, to incorporate them. So I am hesitant to single out any particular country with respect to this question."

"You're the diplomat here," Omar responded.

Sanctions working

Omar also asked how the United States could help Myanmar.

Andrews praised U.S. sanctions on suppliers of jet fuel to the junta and also the regime's foreign-trade banks, which he said led to banks in Singapore and Bangladesh freezing junta accounts holding millions of dollars for fear of being blacklisted in the American financial system.

"The junta sees its large military as a source of strength and, indeed, it cannot survive without it," Andrew said, before explaining that running a large military was expensive and could create its own problems.

"It is also a source of weakness, because it takes a significant amount of money to feed those troops, to supply those troops, to get those sophisticated weapons up and running. They are vulnerable in this area, and we should be exploiting that key vulnerability," he said.

"It was a bullseye," Andrews added of the U.S. sanctions, "but it needs to be the beginning. There are other bullseyes we need to target."

Edited by Malcolm Foster

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content September not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Thai border hospitals feel strain as Myanmar's war drives patients over border

Many patients can't pay their bills, forcing hospitals to find other ways to keep operating.

Special for RFA 2023.09.13 -- When That Thu Lin's father began to feel unwell, he knew the small clinics around their village in southeastern Myanmar's Hpa-an district would not be able to provide adequate care.

So for the second time in two weeks, they took him several hours north and just across the border into Thailand, to the Tha Song Yang Hospital. Without visas or passports, many Myanmar nationals in rural areas make hours-long journeys from Kayin State into Thailand for medical care.

"Last week when we came here, it was more than 6,000 baht (US$170)," That Thu Lin said. "Of course, we're worried about money. Everyone is worried about money."

They are just one family among many who have been forced to travel to hospitals in Thailand because hospitals or clinics near them are unable to deal with more serious cases - treating landmine injuries or malaria, for example - because they lack the equipment or trained staff.

Also, the junta has often taken over the premises of major hospitals within the country, making residents afraid of arrest or interrogation if they seek care there.

So as Myanmar's civil war grinds on, border hospitals in Thailand are increasingly faced with the brunt of the resulting humanitarian crisis.

Into the red

Once they get treated, many patients cannot afford to pay their medical bills, putting a financial strain on the hospitals.

Under Thailand's constitution and Patients' Rights Declaration, every patient - including non-citizens on Thai soil - is entitled to care without discrimination. Similarly, many public hospitals nationwide, especially on the border, operate under a humanitarian oath to provide care to anyone who needs it.

But that's made some hospitals go into the red.

At Tha Song Yang, hospital director Dr. Thawatchai Yingthaweesak says their deficit this year is around 10 million baht (US$282,000). The past few years, the hospital has received additional funding to care for the COVID crisis, which helped them also cover the deficits due to patients' unpaid medical bills. Next year, this funding isn't available.

Registered migrants in Thailand pay into national health insurance when they arrive. But for the estimated 1.7 million unregistered Myanmar nationals, nearly 500,000 stateless people, and those like That Thu Lin who come regularly and illegally from Myanmar, many have no choice but to seek care they can't afford.

The hospital recently constructed an additional building to care for the increasing number of patients - both in Thailand and from across the border.

But now, without the extra budget to help them in the upcoming fiscal year, Thawatchai worries about the costs from the new building, as well as laboratory costs to treat diseases like malaria and dengue as cases steadily rise.

"If they are non-Thai, we ask them for money for the treatment. Most cannot pay. If they can't afford it, how much [can they pay]? It's okay for me," he said. Roughly a third of the hospital's inpatient population is not Thai, and most of these patients do not have insurance.

"I'm not sure [of next year's deficit] because of the new building," he said." We'll open next year. So we'll have a miracle."

Humanitarian Approach

More than 300 kilometers (185 miles) south of Tha Song Yang, Umphang Hospital said it had a 40 million baht (US$1.2 million) deficit due to patients' unpaid medical bills. Dr. Worawit Tantiwattanasap, the hospital director, said it was the largest deficit they'd had in three decades.

Around half of the hospital's treated patients - some 87,000 people - are not Thai citizens who don't pay into a Thai health insurance scheme. A quarter of inpatients and half of outpatients can't afford their bills.

"We need to do everything, basically, to make us be able to pay the company for the medicine or the medical supplies, " he said. "For medicine, we made a delayed payment every year. We pay late."

Nang Ei Lawnt Ying, the project manager for grassroots insurance scheme M-Fund, says many border town hospitals operate at deficits and look for ways to help them manage their expenses.

"They see that organizations help them to reduce the gap, so they also see that M-Fund can fill the gap there," she said. "They like the fact that M-Fund collects money from members and pays the hospital."

The program is collecting base fees of 100 baht (US$2.80) per month from migrants around Thailand, regardless of their legal status in the country. In seven provinces nationwide, M-Fund has insured 60,000 people to help them receive care at 108 hospitals and clinics.

But high costs affect the team here, too. Nang Ei Lawnt Ying says they're still working on making the project sustainable. On average, each hospital racks up 700,000 baht (US$19,700) per month from M-Fund member care.

"We still hope that if more members join M-Fund in the future, it will fill the gap in our expenditure as well."

Thailand's Ministry of Public Health has not responded to RFA's request for comment as of this writing.

Stopgap Measures

While hospitals make due by accepting donations and shuffling their budgets to make ends meet, both humanitarian organizations and grassroots health systems are finding solutions to reduce the cost for patients and hospitals alike.

"The hospital has been taking [donations] - could be money or could be medicine - from people for about 15 years already," Worawit told Radio Free Asia. "We take everything, basically, from people that can be used in the hospital. It could be used items or new items. We take everything, every year."

He said he has tried to urge the Ministry of Public Health to consider a long-term solution to this decades-long problem to create a budget specifically for humanitarian aid to help hospitals pay their bills on time.

"For Umphang Hospital, many people from Myanmar cross the border to get treatment from the hospital because Umphang Hospital is the closest that they can come to. So we need to be a place they can rely on," he said.

"We need to find income for the hospital, but our income is not going to be from charging people who don't have money to pay the hospital."

Edited by Taejun Kang and Malcolm Foster.

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content September not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Rohingya Say No Return to Myanmar Without Guaranteed Citizenship

By Shaikh Azizur Rahman September 13, 2023

Members of Myanmar's Muslim Rohingya community living as refugees in Bangladesh are again voicing opposition to efforts to repatriate many of them. They say that the Myanmar government has not met their demands over citizenship rights and that it is not safe for them to go back to Myanmar's Rakhine state.

Those concerns come amid a plan for their repatriation to Myanmar in the coming weeks.

Following recent meetings in Naypyitaw with visiting delegates from Bangladesh's foreign ministry, Ko Ko Hlaing, Myanmar's minister for international cooperation, told state-owned media that 7,000 Rohingya from Bangladesh would be sent to Myanmar by December.

Twenty villages would be set up soon with plots for 1,000 houses to resettle more members of the community, the Myanmar minister said.

Members of the Bangladeshi delegation later told Bangladeshi local media the process of repatriation would start with 3,000 Rohingya in a first phase.

At the Myanmar talks, Bangladeshi officials said many Rohingya had refused to return home in the past because they had not been assured of restoration of their citizenship rights. In 1982, military authorities in Myanmar introduced a controversial law stripping the Rohingya of citizenship.

Mohammad Foyes, a 38-year-old Rohingya living in a camp in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar, said that since 2018, the refugee community has conditioned their return to Myanmar on the restoration of those rights and other guarantees.

"But from the Burmese authorities, there is no assurance yet that we will get back our citizenship rights after we return. In such a situation, we do not feel safe to go back to Myanmar," Foyes told VOA.

Third attempt at repatriation

Fleeing persecution and violence in Myanmar, the Rohingya have for decades crossed over to Bangladesh, where more than 1.2 million of them live in congested shanty colonies.

After a brutal military crackdown in Rakhine state forced 750,000 members of the minority Muslim community to flee to Bangladesh in 2017, international pressure mounted on Myanmar to agree to take back the Rohingya.

Efforts to repatriate the refugees failed in 2018 and 2019 when the Rohingya said that the Myanmar authorities had not accepted the demand for citizenship rights. The latest effort to send the Rohingya refugees back to Myanmar stems from a China-backed initiative.

However, Nurul Kabir, a Rohingya refugee teacher in Cox's Bazar, said he and his neighbors in Bangladesh are not ready to go home because certain conditions have not been met.

"The Myanmar government has not agreed to our demands regarding citizenship rights, issuing national ID cards, returning confiscated properties, restoring the right to livelihood, allowing free movement and ensuring our security," Kabir told VOA.

"Unless Myanmar heeds our demands and convinces the global community and the U.N. of its commitment, no Rohingya will agree to return to Myanmar," he said.

Htway Lwin, a Cox's Bazar-based Rohingya community leader and human rights defender, said Myanmar authorities still count the Rohingya as "illegal immigrants."

"In the past, the Myanmar authorities wanted the Rohingya to accept the NVCs or the National Verification Cards," Lwin said. "All Rohingya rejected the NVC because it officially labeled us as illegal immigrants."

'No sign of restoration of citizenship'

"Before the repatriation, it is crucial that the junta assures us of the restoration of our citizenship rights, freedom of movement, religious freedom, education and, in essence, equal rights every other community enjoys in Myanmar," Lwin told VOA.

Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, Bangladesh's refugee relief and repatriation commissioner, said the Bangladeshi government cannot be blamed for the delay in the repatriation.

"In 2018, we handed over a list of over 800,000 Rohingya refugees to the Myanmar authorities for the purpose of repatriation," Rahman told VOA. "So far, they have verified only 100,000 of them and have agreed to accept around 20,000 of them without any hitch. The process of verification is very slow and even more complicated.

"The main demand of the Rohingya is to return to their own homes in Myanmar," Rahman said. "But the Myanmar authorities seem to oscillate between granting them this demand and refusing it. Sometimes they say one thing, sometimes the other."

Bangladesh is trying its best for a swift, successful and sustainable repatriation, Rahman said.

Phil Robertson, Asia division deputy director of Human Rights Watch, noted that "without offers of real human rights protection, full citizenship in Myanmar and the right to freedom of movement and livelihoods," the Rohingya refugees in the Bangladesh camps won't budge.

"The SAC [State Administration Council] military junta is fooling itself, and more cynically, trying to deceive the international community, by claiming that this offer of 20 more de facto internment camps for returning refugees changes anything at all in the repatriation dynamic," Robertson told VOA. "The bottom line is the Rohingya are not prepared to go, and nothing the Bangladesh and Myanmar governments try to do short of real rights reforms will persuade them otherwise.

"It's time for the international community to demand Myanmar get serious about offering full rights and return to their homes for the Rohingya refugees and stop playing games with these people's lives," he said.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Former Australian Adviser to Aung San Suu Kyi Calls for Sanctions on Myanmar's Banks

By Phil Mercer September 13, 2023

A former Australian economic adviser to Myanmar's deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi is calling on Canberra to impose sanctions on the Southeast Asian country's state-owned banks. Sean Turnell was imprisoned by Myanmar's military authorities for 650 days before being released last year. Australia has also announced new sanctions against Iranians "who oppress women and girls."

Sean Turnell, an Australian economics professor, was an adviser to Myanmar's former leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who was overthrown by the military in 2021.

He had been sentenced to three years in prison for violating Myanmar's state secrets act in September 2022, charges he denied. Turnell was released by Myanmar authorities as an act of "goodwill between countries" and as part of a broader amnesty for prisoners. He returned to Australia last November.

Turnell is now calling on the Canberra government to take punitive action against Myanmar's state-owned banks.

That action would align Australia with the United States, which has imposed sanctions on the Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank and the Myanmar Investment and Commercial Bank.

Turnell told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. that Australia should follow the lead of U.S. authorities.

"They have recognized, I think, that sanctions now on this Myanmar regime are not really just about, you know, showing our displeasure and disgust, and all that, but it is actually about limiting the capability of this regime to do all the things they are doing to the Myanmar people," he said. "In recognizing that we have got the banks right in the cross hairs, if you like, because this regime they need the foreign currency, they need these particular state-owned banks."

There has been no comment so far from officials in Canberra on Turnell's call for additional sanctions on Myanmar's banks.

Since the military take-over, Myanmar has descended into a civil war, in which thousands of people have died. Aung San Suu Kyi is serving a long custodial sentence for electoral fraud, corruption and other offences.

Earlier this year, Australia said it was imposing targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on "individuals responsible for egregious human rights abuses in Myanmar, as well as sanctions on entities enabling the repression of its people."

Australia has also announced new sanctions against Iranians "who oppress women and girls", including senior police officers, censors and state media. It is almost one year since the death of Mahsa Amini sparked mass global protests against the government in Tehran.

Canberra has already targeted Iran's government with three packages of sanctions since December 2022, but Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Tuesday the latest round of sanctions and travel bans would target "those who oppress women and girls in Iran."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Miami-Based Businessman Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Violate Russia-Ukraine Sanctions and to Commit International Money Laundering

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

For Immediate Release

Office of Public Affairs

Sergey Karpushkin Agrees to Forfeit Over $4.7 Million in Criminal Proceeds

Sergey Karpushkin, 46, of Miami, a resident of the United States and a citizen of Belarus, pleaded guilty today to engaging in a scheme to violate U.S. sanctions and commit money laundering by conducting transactions for the purchase and acquisition of metal products valued at over $139 million from companies owned by Sergey Kurchenko, a sanctioned oligarch.

According to court documents, Kurchenko was sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) in 2015 for his role in misappropriating Ukrainian state assets or economically significant entities.

According to the allegations in the information and other public filings: between in or about July 2017 and in or about August 2020, Karpushkin conspired with others to purchase and receive over $139 million in metal products from two companies that Karpushkin knew were owned and controlled by Kurchenko. Karpushkin and his business associates, acting through the Florida-based company Metalhouse LLC, entered into contracts and purchase orders for pig iron, steel billets, and wire rods from these companies, received tens of thousands of tons of metal products from the companies, and agreed to share profits from these unlawful transactions. Karpushkin and his business associates intentionally concealed from U.S. banks and government officials the ultimate source and origin of the goods they sought to acquire, knowing that they did not have the necessary authorization or license from OFAC to transact with Kurchenko and companies owned and controlled by Kurchenko.

Karpushkin pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Embry J. Kidd in Orlando, Florida, to one count of conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and to commit international promotional money laundering, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Karpushkin also agreed to forfeit $4,723,625 in proceeds that he obtained as a result of the conspiracy. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

An indictment charging alleged co-conspirator and Metalhouse president John Can Unsalan, aka Hurrem Can Unsalan, with one count of conspiring to violate and evade U.S. sanctions, in violation of IEEPA, 10 counts of violating IEEPA, one count of conspiring to commit international money laundering, and 10 counts of international money laundering was unsealed on April 17, and Unsalan has been detained pending further court proceedings.

The FBI Tampa Field Office and the International Corruption Unit of the FBI Washington Field Office are investigating the case, with valuable assistance provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the FBI Miami Field Office.

Trial Attorney Emma Ellenrieder of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, Assistant U.S. Attorney Chauncey A. Bratt for the Middle District of Florida, and Trial Attorney Sean O'Dowd of the Criminal Division's Money Laundering and Asset Forfeiture Section are prosecuting the case.

The investigation was coordinated through the Justice Department's Task Force KleptoCapture, an interagency law enforcement task force dedicated to enforcing the sweeping sanctions, export controls and economic countermeasures that the United States, along with its foreign allies and partners, has imposed in response to Russia's unprovoked military invasion of Ukraine. Announced by the Attorney General on March 2, 2022, and under the leadership of the Office of the Deputy Attorney General, the task force will continue to leverage all of the department's tools and authorities to combat efforts to evade or undermine the collective actions taken by the U.S. government in response to Russian military aggression.

Topics: Export Control

National Security

Components: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

National Security Division (NSD)

Office of the Deputy Attorney General

USAO - Florida, Middle

Press Release Number: 23-1,001

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Comment by Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna on Estonia's decision to deny Russian vehicles entry to Estonia

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

13.09.2023

Please find below the comment by Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna on Estonia's decision to deny Russian vehicles entry to Estonia:

"The decision to ban cars with Russian licence plates from entering Estonia is the right thing to do and I am glad that the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Finance have promptly implemented it. As I noted yesterday, the updated guidelines of the European Commission on cars with Russian licence plates is completely in line with Estonia's foreign policy interests, positions and sanctions policy.

As early as tomorrow, I will consult with the government and raise the issue of dealing with Russian registered vehicles that are already here.

Today, I will have a video meeting with representatives of other border states and the issue will be the first topic on the agenda. As a country bordering Russia, Estonia considers it important to implement restrictions of this kind with neighbours and I welcome the fact that Latvia and Lithuania have already made a similar decision. Restrictions have a greater impact when implemented jointly, and this allows us to further raise the cost of the aggression for Russia.

We cannot allow the citizens of an aggressor state to enjoy the benefits offered by freedom and democracy, while Russia is continuing its genocide in Ukraine."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Putin meets Kim, says Russia will help North Korea build satellites

Iran Press TV

Wednesday, 13 September 2023 7:16 AM

Russian President Vladimir Putin has met with North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un as the two countries expand bilateral cooperation in various fields.

Putin and Kim met on Wednesday at a summit at the Vostochny Cosmodrome space center in Russia's far-eastern Amur region.

The two leaders inspected the facilities at the cosmodrome ahead of planned talks that could lead to Russia helping North Korea build satellites, as well as a possible arms deal.

The meeting, which Moscow and Pyongyang say aims to expand cooperation in various fields, is being closely monitored by the US and its allies.

Washington claimed it had intelligence data that the talks between Putin and Kim on a weapons deal were "actively advancing".

The White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby claimed Russia's Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu had allegedly tried to "convince Pyongyang to sell artillery ammunition" to Russia during his recent visit to North Korea.

Kremlin said Kim's visit would cover "bilateral relations, the situation in the region and in the global arena."

Kim tells Putin: I support your sacred battle against West

North Korea's leader said his visit to Russia highlights the "strategic importance" of ties between Pyongyang and Moscow, North Korean state media reported.

Kim also told Putin that he supported the Russian nation's sacred battle against the West.

In this regard, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia would always act in its national interest.

"The interests of our two countries are important to us, and not warnings from Washington," Russian media quoted Peskov as saying.

The North Korean leader's previous trip abroad was to Russia to meet Putin after the collapse of bilateral denuclearization talks with the then-US president, Donald Trump.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Kim Tells Putin That Russia Has North Korea's 'Full And Unconditional Support'

By RFE/RL September 13, 2023

Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks on September 13 with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who offered his country's "full and unconditional support" to defend what he said was Russia's security interests, in an apparent reference to Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Kim also called North Korea's relations with Russia "the first priority," after talks at a remote Siberian rocket-launch facility.

Washington has expressed concern that Putin would use the meeting to press Kim on weapons shipments to resupply dwindling Russian stockpiles. The two leaders are aligning in the face of their countries' separate, intensifying confrontations with the West.

Following the meeting, the U.S. State Department said it was "quite troubling" that Moscow was considering cooperation with Pyongyang on programs that would potentially violate UN resolutions.

"When you see what looks to be increased cooperation and probably military transfers, that is quite troubling and would potentially be in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions," spokesman Matthew Miller said.

The Putin-Kim gathering came hours after North Korea fired two ballistic missiles toward the sea, South Korean officials reported.

Following the meeting, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the two nations' foreign ministers will meet next month in North Korea, but he added there were no immediate plans for Putin to visit the country himself.

Putin told Russian television that the North Korean leader would travel to two more Far Eastern cities following their meeting, first by plane to Komsomolsk-on-Amur and then to Vladivostok to observe Russia's Pacific Fleet and other sites.

Putin and Kim began their meeting at the Vostochny Cosmodrome after a tour of the complex, including two launch pads, Russian state media reported.

North Korea may have tens of millions of aging artillery shells and rockets based on Soviet designs that could give a huge boost to the Russian Army in Ukraine, analysts say.

Asked whether Russia will help North Korea build satellites, Putin was quoted by Russian state media as saying, "that's why we have come here." Asked about military cooperation, Putin said: "we will talk about all issues without a rush. There is time."

Official photos showed that Kim was accompanied by Pak Thae Song, chairman of North Korea's space science and technology committee, and navy Admiral Kim Myong Sik. Both are reported to be linked to North Korean efforts to acquire spy satellites and nuclear-capable ballistic-missile submarines, according to South Korea's Unification Ministry.

Also part of the North Korean delegation appears to be Jo Chun Ryong, a ruling party official in charge of munitions policies who joined him on recent tours of factories producing artillery shells and missiles, according to South Korea.

Kim had been expected to seek economic aid as well as military technology. Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko said Russia may discuss humanitarian aid with the North Korean delegation, according to Russian news agencies.

An arms deal would violate international sanctions that Russia supported in the past.

"No UN member state should violate Security Council sanctions against North Korea by engaging in an illegal trade of arms, and must certainly not engage in military cooperation with North Korea that undermines the peace and stability of the international community," South Korean Foreign Ministry spokesman Lim Soo-suk said.

The United States has accused North Korea of providing Russia with arms, including selling artillery shells to the Russian mercenary group Wagner. Both Russian and North Korean officials denied such claims.

"We urge the [North Korea] to abide by the public commitments that Pyongyang has made to not provide or sell arms to Russia," White House National Security Council spokesman Adrienne Watson said in a statement earlier.

Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said after the Putin-Kim talks that Russia and China will cancel sanctions against North Korea imposed on it to curb its nuclear program, stating that the measures against Pyongyang had been approved by Russia and China in "an absolutely different geopolitical situation."

International sanctions against North Korea over Pyongyang's nuclear program were imposed after its first nuclear test in 2006. Beijing has yet to comment on Lavrov's statement.

With reporting by AP, Reuters, AFP, RIA Novosti,and dpa

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia- putin-kim-meeting/32590515.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






New document to facilitate integrated devt across Taiwan Straits outlines future blueprint of Taiwan island: experts

Global Times

By Liu Caiyu and Zhang Yuying Published: Sep 12, 2023 07:05 PM

The State Council, China's cabinet, released a new document on Tuesday that outlines supporting measures to develop East China's Fujian Province into the first home for Taiwan compatriots and enterprises in the Chinese mainland.

One of the highlights include the scrapping of temporary residence registration for Taiwan compatriots living in Fujian, encouraging them to purchase property in Fujian, and seeking to include Taiwan compatriots into the local social insurance systems so as to improve the institutional guarantees for them in terms of employment, medical treatment, housing and elderly care services.

The document comes at a time when the Taiwan authorities continue to trumpet separatist rhetoric and act as a US puppet to achieve the US strategy of containing the mainland, which is ruining the development of the island and undermines peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits, observers specializing in the Taiwan question told the Global Times. Amid a complex cross-Straits situation, they noted that the document is equivalent to outlining the future development blueprint of Taiwan island, which is expected to gain a broader driving force and development prospects by integrating with Fujian, a place that shares a similar culture and customs with the island.

The document highlights in the beginning that resolving the Taiwan question and achieving the complete reunification of the motherland is the unswerving historical task of the Communist Party of China, the common aspiration of all the sons and daughters of the Chinese nation, and an inevitable requirement for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

The documents said it supports the basic completion of a demonstration zone for integrated development across the Taiwan Straits, and aims for personnel exchanges between Fujian and Taiwan to become more convenient, trade and investment to become smoother, and exchanges and cooperation to expand to a wider and deeper level.

Throughout six provisions, the document outlines concrete measures to build Fujian into the first home for Taiwan compatriots, the economic integration of Taiwan and Fujian, as well as the provincial integration development with the island, cultural exchanges and institutional guarantees.

The document said it will further facilitate the traffic routes for Taiwan residents to travel to the mainland by increasing passenger and freight routes between Fujian and the island. Students coming from Taiwan to kindergartens and schools in Fujian will be treated the same as locals. Universities and companies in Fujian are encouraged to recruit more students and employees from Taiwan. Doctors from Taiwan can work in Fujian in accordance with local requirements, the document wrote.

In the cultural field, the document especially mentioned the launch of a pilot program that will allow companies from the island to invest and set up radio and television program production and management companies in Fujian. More cooperation in the production of fine film and television works is encouraged.

During a time when the Taiwan authorities continue to push the island into a dangerous situation by acting as a puppet of the US, the measures issued by the State Council offers prospects for residents in Taiwan. Relying on resources in Fujian, residents from the island are able to live, work, invest and develop their career in the mainland, Li Fei, a professor at the Taiwan Research Center at Xiamen University, told the Global Times.

As mentioned in the document, the two sides of the Taiwan Straits are expected to achieve integrated development in almost every field, largely transcending the added value brought by the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) on promoting the normalization, institutionalization and liberalization of cross-Straits economic relations, Song Zhongping, a TV commentator knowledgeable about the Taiwan question, told the Global Times.

The vision pictured in the document is like a future development blueprint for Taiwan island, Song noted. He explained that challenged by international bottlenecks, Taiwan will have more international opportunities, broader development prospects only by integrating with the mainland.

Chinese observers noted that the all-round integration and development of the Taiwan Straits means Taiwan compatriots and Taiwan enterprises can widely benefit from the development of the Chinese mainland to achieve self-development and realize the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

On economic integration, the document mentioned it supports the Gulei petrochemical industry base and the Ningde power battery cluster to build industrial bases and advanced manufacturing clusters that gather resources and elements of both sides with global competitiveness.

The document also clarifies the promotion of comprehensive integration and development in Fujian. Specifically, Kinmen residents will enjoy the same treatment as local residents in Xiamen.

The Fuzhou-Matsu industrial cooperation park will be established to attract Taiwan compatriots and enterprises to participate in the development of Fuzhou's digital economy, while the connection of water, electricity, gas, and bridges between Fuzhou and Matsu will also be promoted. The Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone will also expand its opening to cross-border service trade with Taiwan and build more convenient communication channels across the Taiwan Straits.

The document also states the deepening of social and cultural exchanges between Fujian and Taiwan. Eligible Taiwan civil organizations are encouraged to establish offices in Fujian, and Taiwan religious groups and other individuals will be welcomed to come to Fujian for short-term cultural and educational exchanges.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






KMT's Hou to visit U.S. for eight days

ROC Central News Agency

09/13/2023 09:51 PM

Taipei, Sept. 13 (CNA) New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (), presidential candidate of the opposition Kuomintang (KMT), will set out on an eight-day trip to the United States on Sep. 14, according to Hou's campaign office on Wednesday.

The U.S. has always been a strong ally, while Taipei and Washington share the values of democracy and freedom, Hou said.

In a press release, Hou's campaign office said the aim of the trip is to assert his commitment to the democratic system in the Republic of China (Taiwan), its value of freedom, and maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, as well as strengthening bilateral ties between Taiwan and the U.S., while creating more opportunities for cooperation, reciprocity and mutual benefit.

The office added that the trip is a "journey of dialogue and deepening friendship."

During his visit from Sep. 14-22, Hou will visit New York, New Jersey, Washington and San Francisco, said the office.

According to the office, officials including KMT Vice Chairman Andrew Hsia (), KMT envoy to the U.S. Alexander Huang (), as well as Vice Dean of National Chengchi University's College of International Affairs Lu Yeh-chung () and Director of Tamkang University's Graduate Institute of International Affairs and Strategic Studies Li Da-chung () will be part of Hou's delegation to the U.S.

Hou's itinerary in New York will include visits to think tanks, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy and Council on Foreign Relations, where he will speak at symposiums.

In addition, he will meet with Joseph Kahn, the executive editor of The New York Times and be interviewed by Bloomberg News, said the office.

Hou will then meet with members of the U.S. Congress and with Laura Rosenberger, chairwoman of the American Institute in Taiwan in Washington, and has been invited to speak at The Brookings Institution and The Heritage Foundation.

After Washington, Hou will visit San Francisco to meet with heads of technology companies.

Meanwhile, Hou will also meet with Taiwanese expatriates in New York, Washington D.C., New Jersey, and San Francisco to seek their support for his presidential bid in January, said the office.

In the Jan. 13, 2024 presidential election, Mayor Hou will face Vice President Lai Ching-te () of the Democratic Progressive Party, former Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je () of the opposition Taiwan People's Party, and possibly Terry Gou (), an aspiring independent presidential candidate who founded the Taiwan-based manufacturing giant Hon Hai Precision Industry Co.

(By Liu Kuan-ting and Bernadette Hsiao)

Enditem/AW





NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






1st Austrian parliamentarian delegation since COVID arrives in Taiwan

ROC Central News Agency

09/13/2023 11:13 AM

Taipei, Sept. 13 (CNA) A five-member parliamentarian delegation from Austria's lower house, or National Council, arrived in Taiwan on Wednesday for a five-day visit, making them the first group of lawmakers from Austria to visit the country since the COVID-19 outbreak, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

During their stay until Sunday, the delegates, led by Carmen Jeitler-Cincelli, will meet with Legislative Speaker You Si-kun () and Deputy Foreign Minister Roy Lee (), MOFA said in a press release.

They will also visit the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Digital Affairs, the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, a government-funded think tank, United Microelectronics Corp. (UMC), a leading Taiwanese contract chipmaker, and Taipei Computer Association, it added.

The parliamentarian group is also expected to pay a trip to the Taiwan Equality Campaign, a coalition of NGOs that promote women's and LGBTQ+ rights, as well as the National Human Rights Museum, MOFA said.

The other members of the delegation are parliamentarians Andreas Minnich, Peter Weidinger, Corinna Scharzenberger and Fiona Fiedler.

The National Council is one of the two houses of the Austrian Parliament and is frequently referred to as the lower house.

The Federal Council, meanwhile, is the upper house of the Austrian Parliament and represents the nine States of Austria at the federal level.

(By Joseph Yeh)

Enditem/kb



NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer visits Taiwan

ROC Central News Agency

09/13/2023 11:21 AM

Taipei, Sept. 13 (CNA) Governor of the State of Michigan Gretchen Whitmer concluded a brief two-day visit to Taiwan earlier this week, making her the first sitting governor of the American state to visit the country during their tenure, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Wednesday.

According to MOFA, Whitmer and her delegation arrived in the country on Monday and were welcomed by Deputy Foreign Minister Roy Lee () at a dinner at MOFA's Taipei headquarters on Monday night.

In his address during the dinner, Lee welcomed Whitmer's visit, saying that the trip would help both sides continue to enhance their multifaced partnership, particularly in terms of education, trade and technology.

In May, Taiwan and Michigan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that aims to boost economic investment, supply-chain resiliency, technology and innovation collaborations, and industry-academic connections, according to Lee.

In a tweet, the Democrat Party governor said her brief Taipei trip was meant to give her an insight into Taiwan's semiconductor industry.

"In 2021, Michigan's automotive assembly lines came to a halt because overseas manufacturers couldn't produce semiconductor chips," she tweeted.

"That's why I went to Taiwan -- a major semiconductor chip hub in the world -- to bring manufacturing back to Michigan so that never happens again," said in her tweet.

Neither MOFA nor the governor provided more details on the itinerary of the trip, which concluded Tuesday.

(By Joseph Yeh)

Enditem/kb





NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Tokyo names 'pro-Taiwan' defense minister, reportedly appoints serving official to Taipei, facing backlash from Beijing

Global Times

By Xu Keyue Published: Sep 13, 2023 10:12 PM

Tokyo made two dangerous moves on Wednesday on the Taiwan question - one was naming a "pro-Taiwan" politician as the country's new defense minister in Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's cabinet reshuffle, the other is reportedly appointing a serving government official to act as its de facto defense attachA to the island of Taiwan, which Chinese observers warned would further erode the foundation of China-Japan ties and will face a backlash from China.

Observers believe that Kishida's cabinet reshuffle signals the Japanese leader has no willingness to repair ties with Beijing, instead there will be more obstacles in future exchanges between the two neighbors. Japan is getting more wanton and aggressive in challenging the one-China principle and it must face consequences for its out-of-line move on the Taiwan question, observers warned.

According to Japanese media outlet Mainichi Shimbun, on Wednesday, Kishida reshuffled his cabinet, hoping the revamp will give a boost to his administration, paving the way for his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to emerge victorious from the next House of Representatives election and strengthening support from within his party before the LDP presidential race in 2024.

Out of 19 ministers, Kishida selected 11 new faces. Among the more stunning moves was Kishida's decision to have former Justice Minister Yoko Kamikawa replace Yoshimasa Hayashi, a close ally of Kishida, as foreign minister. Former Justice Minister Yoko Kamikawa, 70, a veteran female lawmaker, was named foreign minister, the Japan Times reported.

Hayashi, a "China school" Japanese politician, is experienced in exchanges with China, said LA Chao, the director of Institute of US and East Asian Studies under Liaoning University.

However, Kamikawa, who held the justice portfolio twice under former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and then again between 2020 and 2021, has little experience in diplomacy, according to Japanese media.

Kishida tapped Minoru Kihara, 54, a onetime aide to former prime ministers Shinzo Abe and Yoshihide Suga, to be defense minister, replacing Yasukazu Hamada. Kihara is a senior member of a bipartisan group aimed at promoting "ties with the island of Taiwan."

Kihara is infamous for supporting the constitutional amendment and the prime minister's direct visit to the Yasukuni Shrine which enshrines Japan's Class-A war criminals who symbolize Japan's war atrocities and militarism during World War II.

As Kishida has tapped more hawks as cabinet members, the new cabinet is very likely to create more obstacles in ties between China and Japan. Kishida showed no intention to reverse tensions with China at a time when China has lambasted Japan's dumping of nuclear-contaminated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean, LA said.

Through the reshuffle, Kishida is trying to gain backing from conservatives, who have traditionally put more emphasis on relations with the US than with China, LA Yaodong, a researcher at the Institute of Japanese Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Wednesday.

On the same day, Japan appointed a serving government official to act as its de facto defense attachA in Taiwan island, Reuters cited four sources as saying, noting that elevating security ties with the island would anger the Chinese mainland.

According to Reuters, Japan does not have any formal diplomatic representation in Taiwan, and instead handles bilateral relations through the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association in Taipei, which is chiefly staffed by reassigned foreign and trade ministry officials. The defense attachA role, however, has until now been held by a retired Japan Self Defense Force officer to avoid antagonizing China.

He has been joined by an official dispatched by the defense ministry to enhance information gathering and communicate with Taiwan regional forces, said the sources, the Reuters reported.

It would undoubtedly constitute a serious incident, leading to a new escalation of tensions between China and Japan, and China is bound to take countering move, Chinese observers warned.

Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said on Wednesday that the mainland is firmly opposed to any countries that already have diplomatic relations with China conducting official exchanges with China's Taiwan region.

China urges Japan to abide by the one-China principle and the four political documents between China and Japan, and to be prudent about their words and deeds on the Taiwan question, Chen stated.

Japan has increasingly become the most rampant external force intervening in the Taiwan question, getting more closely aligned with the US, which will certainly trigger a spiral escalation of China-Japan frictions, LA Chao said.

In the Asia-Pacific region, China should in particular be vigilant over Japan's moves especially around the Taiwan question as Tokyo will be a more aggressive bully under the protection of Washington, the expert stressed, warning of the perception that "a Taiwan emergency is a Japanese emergency" has become a consensus within the Japanese government.

"If Japan violates the core interests of the Chinese people, we must resolutely counter back," LA Chao noted.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Cross-Strait integration set to deepen

People's Daily Online

By Zhang Yi (Chinadaily.com.cn) 08:47, September 13, 2023

China will make Fujian province, which faces the island of Taiwan across the sea, a demonstration zone for the integrated development across the Taiwan Strait, according to a circular released on Tuesday.

The move is aimed at deepening cross-Strait integrated development in all fields and advancing the peaceful reunification of the motherland, said the document jointly issued by the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council.

Fujian, situated on China's southeast coast, should leverage its distinctive advantages and harness a variety of resources to further enhance integrated cross-Strait development, the circular said.

It said policies and systems will be optimized to promote the well-being of Taiwan compatriots and ensure they enjoy equal treatment as their mainland counterparts.

The objective, said the circular, is to make Fujian the first-choice destination for Taiwan residents and enterprises to pursue development on the mainland. The province will see more convenient personnel exchanges with Taiwan when the demonstration zone is built, it added.

The circular added that the pair cities of Xiamen and Jinmen, and Fuzhou and Matsu will play an even more prominent role than now in promoting cross-Strait integrated development.

The document listed 21 specific measures for building the zone, including steps to facilitate Taiwan compatriots to live in Fujian. The occasions on which Taiwan residents would be able to use their residence permits will be expanded, striving to make the social application of these residence permits as convenient as mainland ID cards.

Efforts will be made to deepen industrial cooperation between the two sides and help agriculture, fisheries and small and medium-sized enterprises from Taiwan to develop in Fujian, the document stated.

Universities and research institutes in Fujian will expand their enrollment of Taiwan students, and children of Taiwan compatriots are welcome to go to public schools in Fujian, it said.

As the nearest mainland province to Taiwan, Fujian sees a lot of people coming from Taiwan, and it takes the lead on the mainland in accommodating Taiwan people.

Attracted by better work opportunities in Fujian, Lu Ying-chih, a transportation engineer from Taiwan, moved to Fuzhou, the provincial capital, in 2011 through a talent program to teach at Fujian University of Technology.

"Unlike in the past, when it was mainly Taiwan business people who came to the mainland to invest, now more young people want to work in the mainland," Lu said.

Even though there is still room for improvement, Taiwan people living in Fujian enjoy a lot of convenience such as in buying train tickets and registering for marriage, thanks to related policies, he said.

Yang Yizhou, vice-chairman of the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots, said the deepening of cross-Strait integration has provided tangible benefits to Taiwan compatriots.

"Many Taiwan compatriots come to the mainland to work, study, and start businesses, and many have found new opportunities, initiated careers, and settled down happily on the mainland," Yang said.

He said deepening cross-Strait integration is also fundamental to maintaining peace across the Strait, and achieving peaceful reunification of the two sides.

The process of integration in various fields can help resolve misunderstandings, eliminate confrontations, and constantly enhance understanding between compatriots on both sides, he added.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Foreign Secretary to underline importance of UK-Turkey cooperation on trade and security during visit to Ankara

The Foreign Secretary will meet Turkey's Foreign and Defence Ministers and visit Turkey's crisis response centre to hear how UK aid is supporting Turkey to recover from February's devastating earthquakes.

13 September 2023

Foreign Secretary will meet Turkey's Foreign and Defence Ministers and visit Turkey's crisis response centre to hear how UK aid is supporting Turkey to recover from February's devastating earthquakes.

He will hold high-level talks aimed at enhancing trade, protecting regional security and cooperating to tackle the shared security challenges of counter terrorism, serious organised crime and illegal migration.

James Cleverly will become the most senior UK Minister to visit Turkey since the formation of the new Turkish government in May.

The UK is committed to enhancing its trade and security cooperation with Turkey, as Foreign Secretary James Cleverly will emphasise to his counterparts in the Turkish government during a visit to Ankara today (Wednesday 13 September).

Strengthening this strategic partnership is vital to overcoming the biggest international challenges the two countries face.

The Foreign Secretary will be the most senior UK Minister to visit the country since the formation of a new Turkish government in May. He will meet Foreign Minister Fidan, to discuss the UK-Turkey partnership and ongoing areas of cooperation to tackle a range of global challenges.

As NATO allies, Cleverly will welcome Turkey's commitment to enhance regional security, and the steps it has taken to strengthen the Alliance. He will commend Turkey's efforts to encourage Russia to re-join the Black Sea Grain Initiative, and discuss the wider impacts of Russia's illegal war in Ukraine.

Ahead of the visit, the Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly said:

The UK and Turkey are strategic partners, working together to confront the most important international issues we both face. Our close cooperation on a range of issues is crucial to growing our trading relationship, tackling shared security priorities and strengthening regional stability at a time when it faces unprecedented challenge.

The UK contributed A40million in aid and assistance to help rebuild the livelihoods of those devastated by widespread earthquakes in February. The Foreign Secretary will see first-hand how that aid is helping communities to recover as he visits Turkey's earthquake crisis response centre.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton DSEI Keynote 2023

Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton delivered his keynote speech at Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2023.

13 September 2023

It was four years since I last stood on a stage here at DSEI, I'm delighted to see a wide group of people here today.

It's also 100 days plus since I took over as the Chief of the Air Staff and I've set out in a number of objectives about the need for the Air Force to be ready to fly and fight. We enable that by getting the basics right and getting the most out of the huge investment that the taxpayer has made in the Air Force. But also, how we're going to use technology and rapid continuous technology insertion to maintain that technological advantage that we've enjoyed. But what I've been asked to talk about today, is how we achieve that integrated force and there is a lot of integration around.

The Defence Command Paper Refresh talks about a truly integrated approach to deterrence. The integrated Operating Concept talked about our response that will be integrated.

So, we talk a lot about integration as though it were an end in itself. The danger is by doing this, we tend to focus on the technical and technological solutions to how we bring the component parts together.

So, my view is that we have to think about this problem of how we achieve an integrated force through three lenses. It starts with asking ourselves the question of what is it that we want to achieve? What is our mission? Why will integration help us? Once we establish that then we can talk about what is the technical solution and the technology that will help us deliver it. But the third component has got to be about people and about the human element and we train and develop people to be able to fight in an integrated fashion and deliver the effect that we seek.

The DSEI line to take around integration is getting there. It's about ensuring our Armed Forces act in a way that is greater than the sum of their collective parts. This is not new. Eisenhower made the point about separate ground, sea and air warfare is gone forever. So this idea of exploiting military capability in multiple domains, to deliver our mission more effectively is something that we have lived with for some time. And if we look at what's happened in Ukraine, on both sides they are exploiting all five domains to deliver their military objectives.

Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine started with cyber attacks trying to write down networks and infrastructure that belonged to Ukraine. And 0500 local time on that day in February, it started with land, sea and air launched strikes against air bases, command and control facilities, air defence facilities, and sites around Odessa. Just to give you some idea of the scale of this, the distance from Kherson to Kyiv is about the same as the distance from London to Newcastle.

If we think about the kind of problems that we're going to face in the future, a really effective way to think about this is through the lens of integrated air and missile defence. If you want to protect the UK, we are going to have to connect our sensors and our intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities in space, on the ground, under sea and in the air, in order to be able to understand where the threats coming from and deliver effects against whatever is incoming towards us.

And so, for me, at its simplest level, the integrated force, why we need integration, is to enable us to orchestrate and synchronise the effects that we have across all five domains. But I actually think that there's a deeper reason for integration when we think about war and it's more naturalistic state, more beyond the simple, straightforward, structured approach that we might need to take to this kind of orchestration and synchronisation.

And it starts with John Boyd. So, John Boyd was a great military theorist. He was a pretty difficult guy to live with, as some of you will have heard me say at the Global Air and Space Chiefs Conference, he was known for being loud, abrasive and profane. Robert Coram, in his 2002 biography of him, described him as like most fighter pilots, he took great delight in his profanity and coarse sense of humour. But what he was interested in were wars and conflicts where weaker forces had prevailed against stronger ones.

And he looked at these these examples and wrote it down in what became described as his magnum opus, which is actually a set of slides, Patterns of Conflict. And what he found when he looked at these conflicts, was a successful side didn't pit force against force, but rather what they used was strength against weakness, they used deception, speed and fluidity of action in order to confuse and disorientate an adversary. So that in his words, they then unravelled.

At the heart of this thinking, was this idea of the relationship between the observed and the observer. And if the environment in which the observer was looking at changed faster than the observer could adapt, that's what led to the confusion, the disorientation and ultimately the unravelling of the adversary.

This was captured in this famous OODA loop, which many of you will be familiar with. This is a rather simplistic two dimensional description of the problem, its what I was taught when I was at Staff College. But the reality of it is much more complicated as his original sketch describes.

So, if we are able to make the environment in which our adversary is operating change faster than they are able to adapt, that's how we're going to unhinge our enemies. And if we can do that across five domains, we can do it across the three levels of warfare, and we can do it multi nationally, the ability for us to actually outmanoeuvre and defeat our adversaries will be significantly enhanced.

So for me the why, starting with a why, at it's simple level, it's simply about integrating all of our components of power in order to deliver our mission. And we should start with real life problems rather than driving integration for integration's sake. But what we should be is also more ambitious and think about how we can integrate across all of those five domains, in that dynamic natural state of warfare, of confusion and uncertainty.

So, when we start thinking about the technology, the enablement, to me, a lot of this comes down to command and control. And in the Air Force, we are capturing this thinking in our operating concept, which starts with this idea of decision superiority. It's about simply making faster, better decisions, it includes agility, includes resilience and also integrated action. But to get that right you've got to get the command and control right. It's not just a data and architecture problem.

Now, I'm going to level with you here. I'm an aerosystems engineer. I am absolutely edge of my knowledge when I talk about architecture standards and data models. But bear with me. So in my view, what we really expect and need, is an architecture that is open and is one that we own as government. It also needs to be common across all of our Services.

So in the Air Force, we're developing this Nexus Combat Cloud. It's been developed by our rapid Capabilities Office with support from industry working alongside people in the Air Force. It's now got over 300 users, it allows us to connect information to any point in that network and information from any source. It already operates at official sensitive and at secret level. And we're about to bring it into core so we can use it on a day to day basis.

But the Navy's got Storm Cloud, the Army's got Odyssey.Now I know they do different things, and I've often wondered whether we should run a competition to see which is the best. But fundamentally, we need to have a common system right across Defence. And that is what the integration design authority is all about. So, somewhere else in this hall, in another silent disco somewhere else, Stratcom are launching the integration design authority, and its purpose is to control, manage and design the architecture and those standards.

It's not about designing the whole of Defence or doing the balance of investment. And if we get it right, it won't be about adding new levels of assurance, what it will actually be about is designing in integration right from the start.

Now, for those of you from industry, I think that these conclusions that we're drawing have really important implications for you. We don't know quite what that requirement looks like. So, our traditional model of setting requirements and putting out a contract and competition won't work. In the future, I think we're going to need to see ourselves in government working more closely with industry, focused on delivering outcomes, not necessarily delivering requirements.

But our challenge is if we do that, how do we ensure we retain competitive tension? To ensure that the government, the military, get the best technology the best capability, if we commit to long term partner programmes.

And for me, it starts with getting away from proprietary systems and tie in. I have no shortage of big primes or newcomers into the business coming to try and sell me their architecture, their system, their standards. If you're from a big prime, you're making your money by controlling that, and us having to pay to adapt our systems because we have to pay you to do it. If you're a newcomer, you're making your money out of getting us hooked on the crack cocaine of whatever your system is, and then charging it for us by usage as we get to use more and more of it.

Neither of those systems can be right, I think, for the Ministry of Defence or for the military. And so for me, it feels to me that what we have to think about is the model by which we allow industry to be successful and profitable, is different to the model we've got today. And I think for the primes it starts for you being confident that you're going to be first and you're going to be the best. For us on the government side, we have to acknowledge that we're going to have to enter into some longer term relationships with you and make sure that we prioritise and incentivise speed and the ability to adapt, rather than precision and meeting our requirements.

So. the final element for me we need to think about, is people. So if it is about command and control, if we're going to be really successful at delivering an integrated force, we need to think about how are we going to educate and train our people, our commanders to deliver that.

Now if it's a simple problem, like the ones I described, like IAMD, integrated air missile defence, then we just need to practice it, we need to rehearse it. We need to provide the facilities to do that and involve all five domains. And that's what the RAF's, or the defence run by the RAF, gladiator multi domain integration operations organisation, does. It allows us in a synthetic environment to play into that environment, land, sea, air, space and cyberspace and also live assets into scenarios so we can test ourselves in a full mission rehearsal and teach ourselves how we will operate in those kinds of circumstances.

But if we want to be bolder and talk about that kind of fluid, action I describe in at the heart of our thinking around the air operating concept, then if we want to do that, we've got to really think about how do we educate our commanders so that they have an intuitive understanding of all five domains and how they're going to operate against it.

And that's part of the reason why I announced today that we have set up a support flight on 607 Squadron, which is specifically to bring in space expertise into the Air Force from the private sector as volunteer reserves, so we can help develop our understanding of that environment and think about how we're going to bring it together and integrate it.

And if we think a long way into the future, I wonder whether in an environment where it's hard enough to match the three domains and joint environment which we have been trying to do for 25 years, whether we can really expect somebody to master a single domain before we educate them about being able to be a commander in an integrated force, whether actually we might need to think about the integrated force, and an integrated commander from the start of their careers in the Armed Forces.

To finish and I'll take questions in a moment, but just to remind us, then my view is we have to start with why, what is it that we're trying to achieve? And that will help shape what that integrated force is going to be. And that will emerge over time, we can't necessarily design it today. That will also shape the technology and the technical solutions that we need to put in place to enable command and control of an integrated force.

And then finally, we've got to think about how we train and educate our commanders of the future to actually exploit the benefits of an integrated force. And from an industry perspective we'll work out how we work together and how you're still going to be successful and profitable to deliver the capability the Armed Forces are going to need.

Thank you very much.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Vice Admiral Keith Blount NATO DSACEUR DSEI 2023 Keynote

Vice Admiral Keith Blount, NATO's Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe delivered his keynote speech at Defence and Security Equipment International 2023.

13 September 2023

It's a huge pleasure and a privilege to be with you, in order to just give you some context from NATO, as NATO's Deputy Supreme Allied Commander for Europe, about how NATO is changing the drivers of change, and how we are adapting as we move forward in the context, of course, of a very disturbing and unsettling situation here in Europe.

To that end, I will talk about NATO's shifting strategic context, the adaptation of NATO. But I will close by talking a little bit about the fundamental importance of industry to the alliance, and there's no better place to do it than here, and if I'm completely frank, there's no better time to do it than now.

So the shifting strategic context of NATO is one that was catalysed most purposefully I would suggest in 2014, when Crimea was invaded by Russia and we in the Alliance were perhaps doing a little bit of looking at ourselves rather than looking at the situation as to how that possibly could have occurred and how we must be better prepared for any similar event in future.

And it was from that moment that a number of things started to fall into place, and we saw NATO's adaptation continue through a series of summits, and, of course, through the approach to Ukraine. But there were some fundamental things that happened within the Alliance in the period between 2014 and Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine.

It has taken us from the time at the end of the Cold War, when NATO shifted strategically, of course, through a period of operations out of area in Afghanistan as an example, conducting missions like counter piracy, ocean shield, through to a return to great power competition, and a real Euro-Atlantic focus.

So, in the Madrid communique, that was not this summit, but the one that preceded it, NATO identified head on the most pervasive, challenging threats that the Alliance faces.

It would be of no surprise to you that Russia features in that, and I'm sure of little surprise also, that the other threat identified has been that of terror groups. Both of those threats remain now. There is naturally a focus on Ukraine and on Russia, because it is the immediate threat. It is the one that is governing the geopolitical and strategic situation within the Alliance, and of course its nations, but we never take our eye off the threat from terror groups in all of its forms.

It's also important though, to recognise that NATO has also identified China as a competitor, and of course when China and Russia come together, talk together, act together we have a compounding challenge. So the Madrid communique identifies that challenge. And I quote from a conversation that was clearly choreographed and staged just earlier this year when Putin and Xi got together and there are changes happening the likes of of which we have not seen for 100 years, and let's drive those changes together, to which Putin agreed.

And of course we see a increasing numbers of exercises between those two nations, and we see increasing complexity in the way in which those exercises are conducted. And there are other changing dynamics within the Euro Atlantic area, such as climate change, and the Northern Sea Route and its access, that naturally lends itself to a more contiguous link between the Euro Atlantic and the Far East. I don't want to over stress this, but I do want to make the point that NATO is not blind to it.

And of course, the other thing we are seeing in all of its forms, state and non state, is hybridisation. The shift in the way in which mischief in the grey zone, activities that fall short of trigger points in terms of Article 5, or direct military response, are now happening more frequently, and in more different and diverse ways.

Now, when I went through my classical military education, I was taught to identify and remember the diplomatic information, military, and economic dimensions, in which instruments of power could be executed. Now we have a new acronym that extends well beyond four letters. One that I have not even had the time to assemble into anything that could be remembered, because almost every time I give this presentation or presentations like it, I just add another circle. But these are the tactics identifiable with Russia in the Black Sea right now.

So this challenge is a biggie and therefore the way in which NATO reacts to it and adapts to be ready, ultimately to deter, defend and if necessary fight and win, has been catalysed, and the changes have been significant. I'll add climate change as the end. It's a threat multiplier. You can apply climate change to almost anything that I have said previously and it doesn't make anything easier. So it's another one of those changes that has to be recognised, identified and ultimately acted upon, and NATO has acted upon that as well.

So how has NATO adapted? Firstly, of course, we have seen the accession of new members recently, of course, Finland, and Sweden is not far behind, we hope. They are two significant military powers with a significant economic back drop to everything that they do that enjoy influence within Europe, and will definitely enjoy influence in the Alliance.

Putin should have been very careful what he wished for. Because I'm absolutely convinced what he thought he would do was fracture the Alliance, not unite it, and not see it build further. Build further, with big nations with big military capabilities.

We now have a military strategy. You could be excused for thinking that NATO always had a military strategy, but actually achieving consensus across more than 30 nations around something as fundamental as a military strategy, is perhaps harder than you would have thought. But we have achieved it, and for the first time in decades, we can now start to dock concepts and plans with a strategy that gives meaning to activity from the strategic, through the operational, to the tactical levels.

So that is the way the strategy looks at the top of the tree. And it has led to two very important totemic concepts. One of them is owned by Allied Command Transformation on the other side of the Atlantic in Norfolk, and one of them is owned by Allied Command operations in Belgium. But the NATO Warfighting Capstone concept is the capstone concept that will shape NATO's capability future, over the horizon, out to the 20 to 30 year point. It is the one that identifies the type of capabilities we will need to face the threats that I have already identified. And it has a campaign plan, if you will, to support it called the Warfare Development Agenda.

On the other side of the house, we have the concept for deterrence and defence of the Euro Atlantic area. This is the document that captures Russia and terror groups as threats and starts to map out the concept with which we would deal with them. And it leads to a family of plans. And I can be excused, I'm afraid, in this audience at this level of classification, for not revealing what those plans are but be assured they are more granular, sophisticated, detailed, and ultimately credible than anything the Alliance has had since the end of the Cold War. They replace other plans and they are far, far better.

The family of plans as identified here in the Vilnius communique are very much 360 in their nature, and we use 360 in every single way. So it's 360 across the AOR north, south, east and west and it's 360 upwards and downwards. And of course it also looks to NATO's boundaries and what lays beyond.

We have a new force model. In the past we have aligned NATO's capabilities in tiers of readiness, but in a way that has been complicated and tricky for nations to populate with their own capabilities.

So we have gone through a process of modernisation and simplification, in order that now we have a very straightforward way of approaching those tiers of readiness, and a very straightforward way of asking nations to contribute to them.

This is directly out of the Vilnius communique. The numbers are wrong, so if you write them down, don't hold me to them, because they were published in an unclassified document, but the principle is that we now just have three tiers of readiness, cunningly named tiers one, two, and three, in order to avoid confusion with tier one, the highest readiness forces, and tier three, the forces at far lower levels of readiness.

And you can see the readiness scales there, and we are doing lots of very detailed work, in order that we can identify the relationships between notice to move, notice to effect, when the commanders require the forces to be in the right place, and we are solving these as we go along.

And of course, we recognise that we need to get closer to industry. We recognise that industry is a fundamental partner of the Alliance. And perhaps more importantly than that, we recognise that this is an area that I think we, collectively, can improve upon. And that is one of the reasons I'm spending time at DSEI to promote that message and to encourage you to become part of it.

Part of the way we're doing that is by constructing new exercises, or building on old ones in a way that changes them to be more relevant to NATO's current situation, and the more strategic situation in which the Alliance operates. So CWIX ACT so an Allied Command Transformation exercise, that basically gets after CIS at scale. It gets after interoperability at scale, and it allows industry and military partners to ultimately come together in order to describe and start to shape the Alliance's future. 36 nations in that exercise of this year.

And CWIX is part of what we would describe as the interoperability continuum, because we recognise that what is interoperable today may not be interoperable tomorrow. And therefore it's constantly about testing, refining, challenging ourselves to keep up with change. So we have Tide Sprint, which is all about accelerating new ideas, and Tide Hackathon, which is all about looking at specifically difficult parts of interoperability and looking for ways to solve them.

Now, these are available, if you literally Google those terms and add NATO to them, you will find lots more. In the interest of time, I won't dwell on them now. But I do advertise them because there is opportunity for you to participate in them.

When I was the commander of NATO's Maritime Command, in my last job, I worked very closely with Allied Command Transformation, to conceive, design and ultimately execute a brand new exercise called Dynamic Messenger that worked hand in hand with a Portuguese national exercise called REPMUS, to bring uncrewed autonomous and remotely operated systems into the maritime environment at both low technological maturity, and relatively high pre-production, technological maturity, and either demonstrate them or integrate them into a maritime task group environment to provide dilemmas and challenges to command decision making.

That exercise will run again this month, this year, and in the years that followed, and if you would wish to be part of it, to either demonstrate or integrate new capability in the maritime environment, as an example, one of those two exercises could be for you.

We have the new NATO Innovation Fund, this is a venture capitalist fund. There's about a billion Euros in it, so it's a significant amount of money. There are 23 participating nations, and it's got a real emerging and disruptive technology focus, as you can see, from the capabilities which I list there. There is money and resource to enable NATO's future and it can be unlocked, that money will be spent, and you could be part of the community that help spend it.

Then we have the defence innovation accelerator for the North Atlantic. DIANA. This, again, is a new idea. It's ground-breaking, it's headquartered here in London, but it is pan-Alliance. Everybody's in. It's about start-up, it's about technology acceleration, and it's about setting challenges for industry to solve. And there are three pilots this year and you can see them there, energy resilience, secure information sharing, and sensing and surveillance, and then we're going to set more challenges year on year as we build DIANA are out. There is a DIANA website, as there is an innovation fund website, which gives a considerable amount of information of how to jump on board if that is a good fit for you.

And this is a very important development, written into the Vilnius communique - the defence production action plan. Ultimately as you read through it and perhaps alight on the last bullet, it aggregates demand to meet NATO's capability to targets, encourages multinational cooperation and more agile procurement to enhance transparency with industry. It's a pledge made by every one of NATO's nations. And it's a recognition that NATO can change and be better at working with industry partners.

It is about considering how you get after some of the very tricky challenges of interoperability by building them in by design, to every platform that NATO operates. It's about leveraging economies of scale, by considering a business partner as the Alliance, rather than an individual nation.

It's still nascent, but your voice in nurturing it, your voice in helping it become better at what it seeks to be, and of course, I'm talking principally to industry colleagues, is important, and there is an opportunity. I'm here because of it. NATO's Assistant Secretary General for Defence Investment is here tomorrow because of it, and the NATO Procurement Agency is here today because of it.

And I just leave you now in the last couple of slides with a couple of closing thoughts. If I was to ask industry to design a networked, digitally enabled warfighting system of systems in the 2050-2060 timeframe, I sense there are many industries that would have a good go at that.

And they would recognise the technology available now. And they would be able to extrapolate that using artificial intelligence or whatever, to come up with a system that would be workable.

The challenge is we're starting from relative basics. We're starting from a very platform-centric set of capabilities. We're starting from many capability development pathways that remain platform-centric, in the near to medium term. And we need industry's help to design a pathway from where we are now to where we get to in the future.

Because if every time a ship goes out of service, you simply replace it with another ship, you may well be losing the opportunity to step away from the conventional and traditional, into a different way of thought, into a different way of delivering military capability both kinetic and non-kinetic. And the Alliance will not think itself through that, it will need the help and support of industry in doing it.

I'll leave you with just a closing thought, the Defence industrial base writ large is a, if not the, core component of non-nuclear deterrence for the Alliance. Think about it, if the strapline is we can make them faster than we can shoot them, and we can shoot them faster than you can shoot them, then we win right?

So, defence industrial capacity, the ability to out manufacture, stay ahead of the technology curve, is a huge deterrent value. And the industry partners here own that alongside those of us wearing military uniform.

Ladies and gentlemen, thank you very much indeed for your attention.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's answers to questions from Vesti news programme on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, Vladivostok, September 12, 2023

12 September 2023 14:15

1749-12-09-2023



Question: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken made quite a splash when he said that Ukraine was ready to hold talks with Russia. If they do get underway, the United States would follow. What do you think about this?

Sergey Lavrov: I have read the statement. It was indeed strange. After all, the Americans micromanage everything the Kiev regime does day in and day out. There is hardly anyone in a better position than they are to know what kind of statements Vladimir Zelensky and his administration make and the documents they adopt. In 2022, Vladimir Zelensky signed an executive order prohibiting any talks with the Russian Government or Vladimir Putin. The whole world knows this. If those directing the actions of this regime decided that the Ukrainians must be ready to enter into talks, the first step would probably be to recommend or order that they rescind the order or decree prohibiting these talks.

As for Russia's positions and allegations that Russia has not demonstrated its readiness or desire to engage in talks, hearing this is rather frustrating for us. I do understand that the US Secretary of State is a busy person, but still he has experts around him who report on what the Russian leaders say, and scrutinise these statements. President of Russia Vladimir Putin has said many times that Russia does not reject talks. Those trying to avoid talks must know that the longer they drag their feet on this matter, the harder it will be for us to find common ground. This is our official position. It was Vladimir Zelensky who signed the prohibition on holding talks into law, so against this backdrop, our position is crystal clear.

April 2022 offers a telling example. At the time, we came very close to coordinating the final version of an agreement, but the United States and the UK prevented Kiev from signing it. This was official. Could it be that Antony Blinken has been having misgivings regarding the role assumed by the United States and decided to white-wash America's position? If so, he did not have much success here.

Question: Some claimed that the goal for his trip to Kiev was to convince Kiev to enter talks.

Sergey Lavrov: I would rather not try to make any guesses on this matter. So far, the Ukrainian regime has been berating everyone, including the Americans, the Europeans, and all other countries, asking for more money, assistance, weapons and ammunition. Representatives of the Ukrainian regime can be heard making statements to this effect every day. Dmitry Kuleba, the so-called colleague of mine, has recently met with Germany's Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock in Kiev and complained on camera that the Germans refuse to supply long-range missile systems. He ended his diatribe by saying that they would end up delivering these weapons anyway. This is the kind of client Ukraine is. Those who created this regime must know how to deal with it.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






War in Ukraine - Military support for Ukraine

Germany - Federal Government

Germany provides support for Ukraine by supplying equipment and weapons, these come from supplies of the Federal Arms Forces and from deliveries from industry financed from the Federal Government's funds for security capacity building. An overview.

Wednesday, 13 September 2023

This list provides an overview of military assistance provided by the Federal Republic of Germany to Ukraine. It includes deliveries from the Federal Armed Forces, from industry and assistance measures together with partners, which have, inter alia, been financed from Federal Government funds for security capacity building.

Funding for the security capacity building initiative amounts to 5.4 billion Euros for 2023 (after 2 billion Euros for 2022) and additional authorisations to enter commitments in the following years amounting to 10.5 billion Euros. These funds are to be used primarily for military assistance to Ukraine. At the same time, they will be used for re-filling Federal Armed Forces stocks for items delivered to Ukraine as well as for Germany's contributions to the European Peace Facility (EPF), from which costs incurred from providing military assistance to Ukraine can be re-imbursed to EU member states.

Delivered military support to Ukraine:

(Changes compared to the previous update in bold)

Armoured fighting vehicles

60 infantry fighting vehicles MARDER with ammunition (from Bundeswehr and industry stock s*) (before: 40)

20 main battle tanks LEOPARD 1 A5*

28 tracked all-terrain vehicles Bandvagn 206 (BV206)*

138 MG3 for LEOPARD 2, MARDER and DACHS

ammunition for LEOPARD 1*

18 LEOPARD 2 A 6 main battle tanks with ammunition (German share in joint project with further LEOPARD 2 operators)

50 MRAP vehicles DINGO

54 M113 armoured personnel carriers each with 2 MG* (systems of Denmark, upgrades financed by Germany)

Spare parts for LEOPARD 2 and MARDER

Air defence

86,122 rounds ammunitions for self-propelled anti-aircraft guns GEPARD (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*)

3 air surveillance radar TRML-4D*

PATRIOT missiles

2 IRIS-T SLS launchers*

2 PATRIOT launchers

46 self-propelled anti-aircraft guns

2 air defence system IRIS-T SLM*

IRIS-T SLM missiles*

air defence system PATRIOT with spare parts

4,000 rounds practice ammunitions for self-propelled anti-aircraft guns

500 Man Portable Air Defense Systems STINGER

2,700 Man Portable Air Defense Systems STRELA

Artillery

18,510 rounds 155mm ammunition (before: 15,510)

17,000 rounds 155mm smoke ammunition

2 wheeled self-propelled howitzer Zuzana 2* (project jointly financed with Denmark and Norway)

155mm precision guided ammunition* (SMArt, VULCANO)

5 multiple rocket launchers MARS II with ammunition (German share in joint project with USA and Great Britain)

ammunition for multiple rocket launchers MARS II

14 self-propelled howitzers Panzerhaubitze 2000 with spare parts (German share in joint project with the Netherlands)

20 rocket launchers 70mm on pick-up trucks with rockets*

counter battery radar system COBRA*

10 laser target designators and portable fire control modules for VULCANO artillery ammunition*

Military Engineering Capabilities

8 mine clearing tanks WISENT 1* (before: 6)

material for explosive ordnance disposal (from Bundeswehr and industry stock s*)

11 bridge-laying tanks BEAVER*

11 mine ploughs for T-72*

18 heavy and medium bridge systems and 12 trailers

5 bridges for bridge-laying tank BEAVER

15 armoured recovery vehicles Bergepanzer 2*

2 armoured recovery vehicles Bergepanzer 3

5armoured engineer vehicles DACHS*

3 mobile, remote controlled and protected mine clearing systems*

12 mobile and protected mine clearing systems Ahlmann*

Protective and Special Equipment

1 Satcom surveillance system*

80 reconnaissance drones RQ-35 HEIDRUN* (before: 60)

49 mobile antenna mast systems* (before: 47)

113 drone detection systems* (before: 103)

186 border protection vehicles*

40,600 safety glasses (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*)

104 reconnaissance drones VECTOR*

28 ground surveillance radars GO12*

1,288 binoculars

5 mobile reconnaissance systems SurveilSPIRE*

10 radio jammers*

57 anti-drone sensors and jammers*

2 spare part packages for VECTOR drones

40 frequency range extensions for anti-drone devices*

1 communications electronic scanner/jammer systems*

32 reconnaissance drones*

40 laser target designators*

10 unmanned surface vessels*

10 anti-drone guns*

28,000 combat helmets

1 radio frequency system

3,000 field telephones with 5.000 cable reels and carrying straps

353 night vision goggles*

12 electronic anti-drone devices*

165 field glasses*

38 laser range finders*

6 mobile decontamination vehicles HEP 70 including decontamination material

10 HMMWV (8x ground radar capability, 2x jamming/anti drone capability)*

1 high frequency unit with equipment*

Logistics

51 truck tractor trains 8x8 HX81 and 45 semi-trailers* (before: 50/41)

297 vehicles (trucks, minibuses, all-terrain vehicles) (before: 288)

40 load-handling trucks 8x8 (before: 35)

188 trucks Zetros*

34 load-handling trucks 15t*

6 load-handling trucks 8x6 with 21 roll of containers*

14 tracked and remote controlled infantry vehicles THeMIS*

179 Pick-ups*

12 tank transporter tractor M1070 Oshkosh*

30 protected vehicles*

Combat Readiness and Survivability

47 ambulances* (before: 44)

45.7 million rounds of ammunition for fire arms (before: 44.2)

134,592 rounds ammunition 40mm*

field hospital*

100 machine guns MG5*

300,000 first aid kits*

8 dental sterilizers

11,000 group module rations

103,000 tourniquets

500 pistols SFP9*

2 hangar tents*

8 lift trucks*

295 generators

10 winter camouflage nets

168 mobile heating systems*

36,400 wool blankets

14,000 sleeping bags

Mi-24 spare parts*

spare parts for heavy machine gun M2

200 tents

116,000 winter jackets

80,000 winter trousers

240,000 winter hats

405,000 pre-packaged military Meals Ready

67 fridges for medical material*

3,000 anti-tank weapons Panzerfaust 3 with 900 firing devices

14,900 anti-tank mines (9,300* from industry stocks)

50 Bunkerfaust with 15 firing devices

100 machine gun MG3 with 500 spare barrels and breechblocks

100,000 hand grenades

5,300 explosive charges

100,000 m detonating cord and 100.000 detonators

350,000 detonators

100 auto-injector devices

15 palettes military clothing

1,200 hospital beds

18 palettes medical material, 60 surgical lights

protective clothing, surgical masks

1 field hospital (project jointly financed with Estonia)*

medical material (inter alia back packs, compression bandages)

Diesel and gasoline*

10 tons AdBlue*

500 medical gauzes*

MiG-29 spare parts*

7,944 man-portable anti-tank weapons RGW 90 Matador*

Military support to Ukraine in planning/in execution

(due to security concerns, the Federal Government abstains from providing details on transportation modalities and dates until after handover)

Armoured fighting vehicles

40 infantry fighting vehicles MARDER*

36 tracked all-terrain vehicles Bandvagn 206 (BV206)*

66 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC)*

90 LEOPARD 1 A5 main battle tanks* (project jointly financed with Denmark)

ammunition for LEOPARD 1*

ammunition for MARDER*

Air defence

6 air defence system IRIS-T SLM*

IRIS-T SLM missiles*

22 launchers IRIS-T SLS*

IRIS-T SLS missiles (from Bundeswehr and industry stocks*)

5 air surveillance radars TRML-4D*

6 self-propelled anti-aircraft guns GEPARD*

289,920 rounds of GEPARD ammunition

Artillery

22,500 projectiles 155mm*

18 wheeled self-propelled howitzers RCH 155*

14 wheeled self-propelled howitzer Zuzana 2* (project jointly financed with Denmark and Norway)

Military Engineering Capabilities

material for explosive ordnance disposal*

6 armoured recovery vehicles Bergepanzer 2*

7 mobile, remote controlled and protected mine clearing systems*

15 bridge-laying tanks BEAVER*

2 mobile and protected mine clearing systems Ahlmann*

34 mine clearing tanks WISENT 1*

2 heavy and medium bridge systems*

Protective and Special Equipment

80 drone detection systems*

60,000 safety glasses*

10 mobile reconnaissance systems SurveilSPIRE*

20 reconnaissance drones RQ-35 HEIDRUN*

321 reconnaissance drones VECTOR*

121 reconnaissance drones*

10 unmanned surface vessels*

20 ground surveillance radars GO12*

2,000 portable light systems*

1 mobile antenna mast systems*

314 border protection vehicles*

vehicle decontamination system

11 communications electronic scanner/jammer systems*

Logistics

62 trucks Zetros*

12 tank transporter tractor M1070 Oshkosh*

30 tank trucks (water/fuel)*

1 load-handling trucks 8x6 with 7 roll of containers*

39 heavy duty trailer trucks 8x8 HX81 and 45 semi-trailers*

2 tractors and 4 trailers*

10 protected vehicles*

Combat Readiness and Survivability

9,7 million rounds of ammunition for fire arms

18,000 man-portable anti-tank weapons*

5 ambulances*

2 dental sterilizers

81,408 rounds ammunition 40mm for grenade launchers*

continuing deliveries of medical material*

100 grenade launchers GMG*

200,000 first aid kits*

17 mobile heating systems*

* Deliveries from industry stocks financed by German funds for security capacity building. Some of the deliveries require upgrades or productions is ongoing; also training measures take place.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine: EU individual sanctions over territorial integrity prolonged for a further six months

European Council / Council of the European Union

Council of the EU

Press release

13 September 2023

The Council decided today to prolong the restrictive measures targeting those responsible for undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine for another six months, until 15 March 2024.

The existing restrictive measures provide for travel restrictions for natural persons, the freezing of assets, and a ban on making funds or other economic resources available to the listed individuals and entities. Sanctions will continue to apply to almost 1 800 individuals and entities altogether, many of which are targeted in response to Russia's ongoing unjustified and unprovoked military aggression against Ukraine.

In the context of the sanctions' review, the Council also decided not to renew the listings of four individuals.

After 24 February 2022, in response to Russia's military aggression against Ukraine, the European Union massively expanded sanctions against Russia with the aim of significantly curtailing its ability to wage war, depriving it of critical technologies and markets and weakening Russia's economic base.

In the European Council conclusions of 29-30 June 2023, the EU reiterated its resolute condemnation of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, which constitutes a manifest violation of the UN Charter, and recalled the EU's unwavering support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders and its inherent right of self-defence against the Russian aggression.

The EU will continue to provide strong financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine and its people for as long as it takes.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Undersecretary Sillaste-Elling in Ukraine: Estonia is actively supporting Ukraine on its path to the European Union and NATO

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

13.09.2023

This week, Undersecretary for Political Affairs Kyllike Sillaste-Elling was on a visit to Kyiv, and on 11 September, she met with Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Yevhen Perebyinis, Deputy Director General of the Office of the President of Ukraine Ihor Zhovkva, Director General of the Government's Office for Europe and Euro-Atlantic Integration Oleksandr Ilkov, Head of the European Affairs Committee of the Verkhovna Rada Ivanna Klympush-Tsyntsadze and other Ukrainian officials.

Undersecretary Kyllike Sillaste-Elling assured her Ukrainian colleagues that Estonia supported Ukraine's reforms and European Union and NATO accession process. "We hope that the homework Ukraine has completed will be duly recognised in October by the European Commission, and this will allow EU member states to decide in December on the launch of accession negotiations with Ukraine." Estonia will continue training Ukrainian officials in European integration to offer necessary support and experiences in the accession process.

Discussions also covered next steps on Ukraine's path to NATO membership following the Vilnius summit. Sillaste-Elling said only joining NATO can provide a security guarantee that would truly deter Russia.

Sillaste-Elling also spoke to the Ukrainian side about rallying support for President Zelensky's peace formula. Estonia is actively participating in discussions and is helping to include global partners in finding solutions. "There is only one peace plan and it is the 10-point proposal put forward by President Zelensky, aimed at restoring the territorial integrity of Ukraine. It is crucial for Ukraine to have the initiative on peace and for Ukraine to lead these discussions," Sillaste-Elling said.

The meetings also touched on the creation of a special tribunal for the crime of aggression, which would be able to hold Russian leadership to account.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






The President: We must work together to achieve Ukraine's Euro-Atlantic integration goals as soon as possible

President of the Republic of Lithuania

September 13, 2023

On Wednesday, President Gitanas NausAda met with President Andrzej Duda of Poland at the Security and Economic Forum in Krynica.

The Lithuanian and Polish leaders discussed the implementation of the Vilnius NATO Summit decisions, the security situation in the region and bilateral cooperation.

The President stressed that the recent NATO Summit and its decisions demonstrated the transatlantic community's unity and determination to defend the values of the free world, strengthen security in the entire Euro-Atlantic area and support Ukraine to victory. "We must work together to ensure that Ukraine's goals of Euro-Atlantic integration are achieved as soon as possible," the President said.

Gitanas NausAda noted that the decisions taken in Vilnius on securing NATO's eastern flank were no less important: new generation regional defense plans were approved and air and missile defense was strengthened, with a focus on the rotational model in our region. "Although the agreed plans are very important, they alone will not deter the aggressor, and we must continue to work together on a systematic basis to implement them and make them effective as early as possible," the President said.

The two leaders also discussed their common position on Ukraine's accession negotiations with the EU, which are expected to begin this year, the use of Russia's frozen public and private assets for Ukraine's reconstruction, the strengthening of sanctions against Russia and Belarus, and ways to prevent their circumvention. The Presidents agreed to continue working towards establishing a special international tribunal to hold Russia accountable for crimes of war and aggression. The Lithuanian and Polish leaders discussed bilateral economic cooperation and joint infrastructure projects. According to the President, it is essential to speed up the implementation of the Rail Baltica project, which will create a rail link between the Baltic States, Poland and the EU as a whole, help to strengthen the European North-South transport axis and contribute to ensuring military mobility.

The President's Communication Group

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






White House confirms over $100b spent on Ukraine war despite Russia warnings

Iran Press TV

Wednesday, 13 September 2023 9:37 AM

The White House has confirmed that the administration of US President Joe Biden has spent more than $100 billion on the war in Ukraine despite repeated warnings from Russia that such moves would only prolong the conflict in the former Soviet republic.

The confirmation was made in a letter from the White House's Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to more than 30 Republican lawmakers at the Senate demanding a "full crosscutting" report in January on US military assistance provided to Ukraine.

The letter, penned by OMB Director Shalanda Young and obtained by Fox News, offers a detailed account of more than $100 billion worth of military assistance the United States has provided to Ukraine since the start of what it calls "Russia's brutal invasion" on February 24, 2022.

"With bipartisan Congressional support, the United States has provided security, economic, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine as it continues to fight to defend its sovereignty following Russia's brutal invasion," Young wrote.

"This support has been critical to Ukraine's success on the battlefield, as well as the ability of its people to endure under harsh conditions."

Young claimed that Biden "has made clear" that the United States "will not waver in our commitment to the Ukrainian people as they fight for their freedom and independence."

Young also provided the Republican Senators with a "table that details supplemental funding provided in support of Ukraine in addition to current obligation levels, which OMB shared with Congress" in August.

The table showed that a total of $101,198,000,000 has been obligated or executed by the Office of Management and Budget, also outlining plans to spend an additional $9.8 billion.

Apart from more than $100 billion already spent in Ukraine, the White House asked Congress last month to authorize an additional $24 billion, which includes $13 billion for defense and $11 billion for economic and humanitarian aid.

Oleksii Reznikov, the Ukrainian defense minister who was fired by President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier in the month, revealed that Western allies had already provided Kiev with military aid worth about US$100 billion since the start of the Russian operation in the war-torn country.

"We have received over US$100 billion in various weapons and equipment, rounds of ammunition, shells, and shots. From the United States alone, we received more than US$50 billion, approaching US$60 billion," Reznikov said in an interview with Ukrinform news agency.

The defense minister underlined that if the amount is multiplied by Ukraine's national currency exchange rate, it will be equivalent to trillions of hryvnias.

The development comes as Western officials have criticized Kiev over the past weeks for failing to deliver on its promises of victory on the battlefield despite receiving ten-of-billions of dollars worth of weapons and munitions and just asking for more.

Kiev launched its hugely publicized counteroffensive against Russian troops in June but failed to pass the Russian defense lines and switched instead to causing disruption deep inside Russia by launching drone and missile attacks on the capital city Moscow and elsewhere.

Some Western officials have come to see the support for Ukraine as their loss and a distraction from their own domestic problems.

Russia has on numerous occasions warned that the continued supply of Western weapons and munitions to the Ukrainian military would only prolong the war, add to losses, and exacerbate the sufferings of the Ukrainian nation.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Ukraine attacks Russia's Crimea port with 10 missiles, 3 speedboats

Iran Press TV

Wednesday, 13 September 2023 8:51 AM

Ukraine has targeted a Russian shipyard in Sevastopol port on the Crimean peninsula with 10 missiles and 3 speedboats, injuring two dozen people and causing severe damage to the port, according to the Russian defense ministry.

In a statement on the Telegram messaging app on Wednesday, the ministry said that seven missiles were downed by Russia's air defense systems, and all three boats were destroyed by a patrol ship.

"As a result of being hit by enemy cruise missiles, two ships under repair were damaged," the ministry said.

Mikhail Razvozhayev, the governor of Sevastopol, the largest city in Crimea and a major Black Sea port, said on Telegram that at least 24 people were injured.

"All emergency services are working on the site, there is no danger to civilian objects in the city," Razvozhayev said.

Ukrainian unmanned marine drones have carried out multiple attacks targeting Sevastopol harbor.

The strategic port builds and repairs ships and submarines of the Russian Black Sea Fleet.

The Black Sea Fleet lost its flagship, the guided missile cruiser Moskva, in April last year when it was struck by Ukrainian anti-ship missiles.

Kiev has also repeatedly targeted the two bridges linking Crimea to the mainland.

The Crimean Peninsula, which rejoined Russia after a referendum in 2014, has recently come under fierce attacks.

Kiev has increased its cross-border missile and drone strikes against Russian targets following its hugely-publicized abortive counteroffensive.

The West, the United States in particular, has supplied Ukraine with tens of billions of dollars worth of weapons and munitions to fight against the Russian nation since last February when Moscow launched its military campaign in Donbas to stop NATO's encroachment.

Moscow has now and then warned against flooding Kiev with weapons and munitions, saying it will only prolong the conflict.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia Admits Two Warships Damaged In Apparent Ukrainian Attack On Occupied Crimea

By Current Time, RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, RFE/RL's Russian Service September 13, 2023

Two Russian military vessels have been damaged in an apparent large-scale Ukrainian strike on a ship-repair base in Russian-occupied Crimea as Kyiv reported another barrage of Russian drones had struck port infrastructure in the Odesa region.

The Russian Defense Ministry said the shipyard in Sevastopol, which serves as the main base for Russia's Black Sea Fleet, was targeted by 10 cruise missiles and three unmanned sea drones.

The ministry said its air defenses shot down seven of the missiles and that the patrol ship Vasily Bykov had destroyed all the boats.

But Russian officials confirmed two ships had been damaged and the Moscow-appointed governor, Mikhail Razvozhayev, said at least 24 people were injured.

"All emergency services are working on the site, there is no danger to civilian objects in the city," Razvozhayev said on Telegram.

Reuters quoted a Ukrainian intelligence official as saying one large vessel and a submarine were struck in the attack and were likely damaged beyond repair.

"Those are significant damages. We can now say that with a high probability they are not subject to restoration," Andriy Yusov confirmed to Reuters, without specifying the weapons used for the strike.

Britain's Sky News reported that Kyiv used U.K.-provided Storm Shadow long-range cruise missiles in the attack, citing unnamed Western and Ukrainian sources.

Crimea.Realities, a regional news outlet of RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, reported that at least seven blasts were heard at the site, with shock waves breaking windows and bright flashes and smoke visible in the sky.

The strategic shipyard on the peninsula, which Russia illegally annexed from Ukraine in 2014, builds and repairs ships and submarines of Russia's Black Sea Fleet. The fleet has launched numerous drone and missile attacks on Ukraine.

Razvozhayev posted a nighttime photo of flames engulfing what appeared to be port infrastructure. Russian Telegram channels posted videos and more photos of massive flames at a facility alongside the water.

The strike on Sevastopol comes after Ukraine claimed on September 11 that it recaptured strategic gas and oil drilling platforms in the Black Sea that Russia seized in 2015. Russia had used the platforms to stage weapons and launch helicopters, and Ukraine said they would help it retake Crimea.

Mykola Oleshchuk, commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, wrote on Telegram: "While the occupiers are still recovering from the night-time bombardment in Sevastopol, I would like to thank the pilots of the Ukrainian Air Force for their excellent combat work! To be continued...."

Elsewhere, Ukrainian port infrastructure in Izmayil was also damaged on September 13 in another Russian drone attack, said Oleh Kiper, the governor of the Odesa region.

"Unfortunately, there were hits. Damage to port and other civilian infrastructure was reported," Kiper wrote on Telegram, adding that six people had been injured, three of them seriously.

The Ukrainian Air Force later said it intercepted 32 of 44 Shahed-type drones over Ukraine overnight, with most of them launched toward the southern parts of the Odesa region.

Russia has stepped up attacks on Ukraine's grain-export infrastructure amid talks about the resumption of the Black Sea grain deal, which would allow unhindered exports of grain from Ukrainian ports.

Russia quit the deal in July -- a year after it was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey.

Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar said on September 13 that Kyiv's troops in the east of the country were facing increasing attacks from Russian forces.

Malyar said Russian forces were stepping up attacks in two frontline Ukrainian cities -- Avdyivka near the Russia-controlled city of Donetsk and nearby Maryinka.

In the east, "the situation has become much tougher in Maryinka," Malyar said on national TV.

"The Russians have increased their shelling" and are conducting waves of attacks," she said.

With reporting by AP and Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia-crimea-odesa- attacks/32590476.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Romania Finds Possible Drone Fragments After Russian Attack Hits Ukrainian Ports

By RFE/RL's Romanian Service September 13, 2023

Romania's Defense Ministry said elements of what could be a drone were identified on the NATO member's territory following a Russian drone attack early on September 13 on Izmayil in southern Ukraine, just across the border.

A crew from a Romanian Air Force helicopter identified "fragments that could have come from a drone, dispersed over an area of several dozen meters," the ministry said, noting investigators were sent to the site to conduct a preliminary search and to collect samples for examination.

If confirmed, it would be the third time fragments from a drone have been found on the territory of Romania in recent days.

The debris was found near the towns of Nufarul and Victoria, in Tulcea County -- an area of the Danube that forms a natural border between Romania and Ukraine. Earlier, Romania's Defense Ministry said emergency services had received calls about "possible cases of drone impact" in the area.

Overnight, Bucharest announced a pre-alert state in areas in Tulcea and Galati Counties as a result of the detection of "groups of drones heading towards the Ukrainian ports," the Defense Ministry said.

Residents of Tulcea received alert messages asking them to find shelter as there was "a possibility of some objects falling from the air space," RFE/RL's Romanian Service reported.

Early on September 13, the authorities in Ukraine's Odesa region said port infrastructure in Izmayil was damaged in a new Russian drone attack.

"Unfortunately, there were hits. Damage to port and other civilian infrastructure was reported," Oleh Kiper, the governor of the Odesa region, wrote on Telegram, adding that six people had been injured, three of them seriously.

The Ukrainian Air Force later said it intercepted 32 of 44 Shahed-type drones over Ukraine overnight, with most of them launched toward the southern parts of the Odesa region.

In a statement issued earlier on September 13, the Romanian Defense Ministry "firmly" condemned the Russian attacks against Ukrainian port infrastructure, saying that they were "unjustified and severely breaking international humanitarian rules."

Russia has stepped up attacks on Ukraine's grain-export infrastructure amid talks about the resumption of the Black Sea grain deal, which would allow unhindered exports of grain from Ukrainian ports.

Russia quit the deal in July, a year after it was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey.

Earlier in September, Romania reported two occasions when fragments of a drone similar to those used by the Russian military were found on Romanian soil after Russian attacks on Romanian port infrastructure.

Romanian authorities condemned the cases as an "unacceptable breach of Romania's airspace," while NATO said it had no information that they were caused by a deliberate Russian attack.

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, there has been one other recorded incident of the war spilling into a NATO member state. That was when a missile struck a farm in Poland, killing two people. Polish officials later said it appeared to be unintentional and that it was likely launched by air defenses in neighboring Ukraine.

NATO has a collective-defense commitment under which the military alliance considers an attack on one ally to be an attack on all allies. Alliance members have provided Ukraine with military equipment and support but have warned against any moves that could provoke a slide into direct conflict with Russia.

With reporting by Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/romania- russian-drone-debris/32590895.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Ukraine Making 'Great Strides' But More Hard Work Before Accession, EU Says

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service September 13, 2023

Ukraine has made "great strides" to join the European Union since being granted candidate status in 2022, but full accession is a merit-based process and hard work lies ahead, the head of the bloc's executive said in her annual speech on September 13.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addressed the European Parliament as the 27-member bloc starts debating whether to grant Kyiv in December the next milestone on its way toward Western integration -- a formal start of membership negotiations.

The start of such talks would be a geopolitical bargain as Ukraine fights against a Russian invasion.

Von der Leyen added that the European Commission will propose extending temporary protection to Ukrainian refugees.

Ukrainians fleeing the war are exempt from lengthy asylum procedures usually required by EU member countries.

Instead they are immediately entitled to social benefits, a work permit and access to education and housing.

With reporting by Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-eu-accession-von-der- leyen/32590758.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Statement by Russian Defence Ministry

13.09.2023

Last night, the AFU fired ten cruise missiles at the ship repair plant named after S. Ordzhonikidze in Sevastopol and three uncrewed boats at a detachment of Black Sea Fleet ships on a sea crossing.

Air defence systems shot down seven cruise missiles. The patrol ship Vasily Bykov destroyed all the unmanned boats. Two ships under repair were damaged by the enemy cruise missiles.

Department for Media Affairs and Information

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Ukraine Merely Pretends to Strive for Peace - Russian Foreign Ministry

Sputnik News

20230913

Russia's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova also shared her expectations of the meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in the Far East.

Speaking to Sputnik on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, Russia's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman also discussed the complexities of Russia's relations with Armenia and addressed how Moscow will respond to Britain's training of Ukrainian sabotage groups preparing to attack Russian territory.

The 8th Eastern Economic Forum took place on September 10-13 in Vladivostok on the campus of the Far Eastern Federal University. Sputnik News Agency is the event's official information partner.

- One of the most important developments in recent days is the visit of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to Russia. What are your expectations for the upcoming talks?

- Judging by the three-hour plenary session at the Eastern Economic Forum, the central theme is undoubtedly geopolitical changes that are not just theoretical but have concrete contours. We see how the discussions about a fairer world are being put into practice. It's about the synergy of the G20, not the dominance of the G7 within the G20, not the loud declarations of the world capitals about what they call developing countries - I don't even know what terms they come up with - but real synergy and words spoken by the same BRICS alliance, the same developing countries within the G20. It is about the expansion of BRICS, de-dollarization, transition to settlements in national currencies, not as a front or as an alternative to something good, but as an escape from the endless crises created by the United States. This is the main agenda today. Of course, bilateral contacts are crucial in this context. The situation on the Korean Peninsula is undoubtedly of great importance for regional security and stability.

But even here we can't avoid our foreign colleagues. By the way, we should pay tribute to the analysts of the Russian Foreign Ministry, our specialists and diplomats, who have repeatedly emphasized that behind all the noise and the public campaign, which, as always, unfolds in the Western mainstream media, one should see the real facts. They have consistently explained the etymology of what is happening around North Korea. They have explained how it is presented and what it actually is, and there's quite a difference. They have told the whole story of how the United States has been provoking for decades and preventing the two Koreas from reaching a normal agreement. I believe that without the US they would have reached an agreement long ago. I am confident of that.

By the way, they made a similar experiment with Beijing and Taipei: we have already seen how Beijing and Taipei held summits and meetings, and everything was going positively, peacefully, but once again, Washington intervened. Now we see that tensions are rising in this track as well. And it's not the only one. So, of course, it's one of the most important components of the picture that's emerging in the Asia-Pacific region at this stage.

- How much do you expect the practical bilateral interaction with Pyongyang, which was interrupted by the pandemic, to intensify?

- It is already being restored. Indeed, the Korean Peninsula went through a difficult time during the pandemic for a variety of reasons. Each country on the Korean Peninsula had its own way of dealing with the pandemic and its consequences. But life is gradually returning to normal. There are still issues that need to be addressed, but we expect that diplomats and leaders of various countries will meet to overcome and resolve these issues in a mutually respectful manner, as we usually do.

- During the plenary session of the Eastern Economic Forum, President Putin revealed that captured Ukrainian saboteurs had testified about the preparation of sabotage groups planning terrorist acts against power transmission lines and nuclear facilities in Russian territory. He also mentioned that British instructors had trained these saboteurs. Will Moscow take any action against London in this regard, such as formal protests?

- Absolutely, as we have done in the past, we will continue to raise this issue persistently, both through public channels, making it a matter of public record, and through diplomatic means, emphasizing the unacceptability of participating in such activities.

I would like to remind you that the so-called "grain deal" in the West, known to us as the Black Sea Grain Initiative, the comprehensive agreement reached almost a year ago, has been suspended. As you may recall, the reason for this suspension was precisely the same diversions and acts of terror against Russian ships in which Britain was involved. The involvement of British intelligence and trainers may be a matter of detail, but Britain was directly involved. That is why we call this a hybrid war against our nation. That is why we see Ukraine only as a tool, without any illusions.

Once again, our objections, not only our arguments, but our absolute condemnation and demand to stop such activities will be conveyed to the British capital. The question lies elsewhere. They have chosen this path; it's their primary path - the path of hybrid warfare, the path of total destruction. It is a subversive, essentially extremist and globally unsanctioned sponsorship of terrorism and support for the terrorist regime in Kiev. However, they will reap what they sow, in part because the monster they've nurtured and fed is beginning to turn on them, it's beginning to blackmail them.

Zelensky's statements, as quoted by The Economist, bear this out. He said that if at some point they decide not to pay for all the assassinations they've ordered - in my own words, this is how it really is - then Ukrainian citizens, refugees on European territory, will be cornered and Europe will have problems. In simpler terms, the representatives of their Kiev regime are present on the territory of the countries of the European Union and NATO. Technically, they may have the status of refugees or displaced persons. In reality, as Zelensky puts it, they are nothing more than combat cells, combat units, lying dormant and existing there in a kind of narcotic stupor, ready to be activated at any moment when it becomes advantageous, necessary or required.

- It is blackmailing?

- It is worse. Blackmailing is, you know, a bygone era. Blackmailing is when Zelensky used to say, "Give us money," at Oscar ceremonies, at Cannes festivals, or at San Remo - that was blackmail. It is when a person in disguise would burst in and demand money and political support. Now this is a clear declaration of the beginning of terrorist activities. Terrorism is not just explosions and distractions through arson and so on. Terrorism involves information warfare. It is psychological manipulation of the target. And even when it comes to the use of violence in committing a terrorist act, the psychological component is crucial.

We can see how similar this is to the activities of organizations like Al-Qaeda or ISIS (organizations recognized as terrorist and outlawed in Russia), banned organizations, (Osama) bin Laden or those who followed in his footsteps - it's all very similar. I don't know about the Ukrainian refugees, as Zelensky mentioned, who are stuck in this situation. Who are they, these refugees? Who are they, these displaced persons? Refugees are people who are forced to leave their homes because it's not safe. But they, excuse me, have chosen the path of eliminating everything Russian and promoting hatred. They associate their homeland only with food, where they can get a free meal.

Now they are called refugees. They are not refugees; Zelensky has clearly defined them as units that can be activated. How will they be activated? Some of them will commit acts of terror. They will. Unfortunately, that is the prediction that awaits the European Union. These terrorist acts will happen. Some will march solemnly around government offices, public institutions in EU countries, shouting, singing nationalist songs.

Some of them will be involved in domestic politics, some of them have already received residence permits and some of them have connections there. They will actively participate in the domestic political life of the EU countries, using the logic of both blackmail and direct terrorist action. The West has been teaching them this for ten years. And now the whole story has shifted to the European Union. That's what Zelensky is saying. We understand it, but ordinary people in the European Union do not. They don't understand what he's saying or what he's implying.

But those to whom this message is addressed also understand it, because they provided funds for the "Maidans," they trained Ukrainian militants of the Kiev regime in the Baltic states and in Poland. They provided equipment, entrenchment tools, tents; they taught how to make incendiary mixtures, Molotov cocktails, and they provided political cover. They understand what he means.

- So this is a re-export of "Maidan"?

- Exactly, thank you for that excellent comparison. That's exactly what it is. He's just telling them that the ones they've been praising and teaching and nurturing are now with them. And with the desire, they can be activated. Where it all leads to, well, who knows.

There have already been terrorist attacks in Europe. Remember how they targeted New Year's celebrations or mass events. All this has happened. Who did all this? Who was behind it? These are their so-called "moderate terrorists" whom they also nurtured and sent to regions, and then they came back.

But the situation here is even worse. Now the Ukrainian so-called refugees will have weapons supplied by Western countries, mainly the European Union, in violation of their own export commitments on arms transfers. They already have them in their hands because all of this has flooded the "black" markets over the last year and a half. These are people who will have real weapons. Not homemade ones, not Molotov cocktails, not makeshift suicide belts, but real weapons. And not to mention unlimited one, because so much has been stolen or never made it into Ukraine that I believe no one even has a clue about the caches where they are stored. This is what Zelensky is hinting at between the lines.

I say this without malice, without a sense of triumph that they will get what's coming to them. Yes, they will get it, that's a fact. They will get it, just like, and please, for all of you who are doubting these words right now, wait, no, they won't. I'm going to give you an example from the North Caucasus. First of all, the same international terrorists who recruited people in the North Caucasus, where some were dissatisfied with the authorities, some were dissatisfied with the economic situation, moved them and turned them into militants. Then they provided them with weapons, money and communications. At the time, these were sporadic, pinpoint deliveries. But the militants in the North Caucasus, the international terrorists, had an abundance of resources. They had satellite phones; they had cell phones, computers, everything. They provided them with information for targeting. They gave them all the support, political and otherwise, just as Zelensky is doing now. The same terrorists like Zakayev and Basayev

were the main guests on Western TV channels. How did it all end? It ended with Northern Europe, Great Britain, Central Europe also taking them in as so-called refugees when Russia restored order in the North Caucasus and overcame this terrible affliction that they had imposed on us in this way.

And a few years later, I was a witness, a participant in those negotiations, not as an active participant, but as someone who was present at the negotiating table, when Western foreign ministers, foreign ministers from Northern and Central Europe, looked into Sergey Viktorovich Lavrov's eyes and, excuse me, bleated. When and how can we get in touch with one of your specialists who will help us sort out these newly formed diasporas that are behaving badly? Do you know what they have done in our democratic countries? Sergey Viktorovich Lavrov replied, "I know, because they did the same in our country with your money."

- President Putin, referring to Secretary Blinken's statement, said that if the US speaks for Ukraine, then they should cancel the decree signed by Zelensky prohibiting negotiations with Russia. Do you think they will?

- No one can discuss this without a tragic, sarcastic smile. You see, it is an absolute dichotomy of American diplomacy, and it is shameful and indecent behavior. I don't even know how they can look their own people in the eye. After all, they literally screamed and yelled for a year and a half that it was only the battlefield, no negotiations, Ukraine was not ready, or the world was not ready, or the circumstances were not ready for the negotiation process. Didn't Blinken say that? In response to your specific question, and I see that it is formulated very precisely, can they cancel the decree - I think they will come up with casuistic phrases to create the appearance of a desire for peace in the absence of practical steps in that direction. In other words, they will come up with absurd formulations consisting of contradictions - Zelensky's peace formula, for example, which says nothing about peace, only about military scenarios and so on, but they call it the "peace formula". They will come up with formulations like Ukraine is ready for peace, but Russia must tell them and make an offer.

Let me give you an example. It was impossible to imagine a more serious task and an unrealistic goal than chemical disarmament in Syria: the absence of international legal mechanisms, the absence of practical tools, the absolute disagreement of global players on the regional agenda, international conflicts, in addition to everything else, active combat operations, endless provocations - all this made it impossible. But there was a common will. The right words were found, the means of implementation were found, you remember the ships that were used to neutralize the chemical weapons, the right article in the right document was found and it was used correctly - all because there was a political will among the global players to make a reality out of an absolutely unworkable project. And everything was done, and then an international organization awarded a peace prize to those involved in the process.

The situation here is not at the level of chemical disarmament in Syria, where there was no understanding of how to do it and, moreover, no experience in carrying out such operations. Here, everything is clear: what led to the current situation, what could be a lifesaver - it's the Minsk agreements, the cause-and-effect relationship, the logic of events, who's behind what. But the words are getting more and more complicated, the formulations more and more cumbersome.

There was a meeting in Jeddah under Zelensky's supposed peace initiative. You know, the participants didn't understand what was being done to them. It's a case where they seemed to have done something and participated in something, but no one knows what. Moreover, many of the participants did not know that they were included in some working groups, and even these working groups held meetings with their supposed participation. Can you imagine that? It was hard for me to imagine. But it was like that. Nobody knew how these working groups worked - in a virtual format, in a kind of online conference, but the participants didn't know who else was in these conferences with them.

In other words, they were sitting in front of the camera without understanding who else was in this online space with them. What it was, why it was being done, what the end result was - nobody even told them. We know that this is an attempt to include as many countries or individuals as possible in Zelensky's so-called "peace initiative" in any format. Even if it's just one item, even if it's just sitting in front of a camera or signing a participant's name on a piece of work - it doesn't matter, as long as it shows that this initiative has the support of such a number of countries. It's a mystification of a certain level, I think it's even beyond Golohvastov [fictional hapless and opportunist character from a 1961 Ukrainian comedy film Chasing Two Hares], it's not even Woland [fictional character in the novel The Master and Margarita by the Soviet author Mikhail Bulgakov depicting the Devil], it's a one-act play, you know.

- What category does this story belong to, and should we react to it, like the European Commission's ban on the import of personal belongings of Russians? Should we react to it or is it beneath us?

- This is some kind of a new reinterpretation and creative reimagining of the sanctions imposed on our country, and in this case, it goes far beyond the limits of absurdity. These are the notes of someone with a fever. On the other hand, as we understand it, this is a subjective view of the world held by some individuals, but it is documented nonetheless. Two points I have mentioned before and would like to emphasize again: this is another manifestation of racism. I have said it before and I will say it again: this is another form of racism.

Someone might argue that racism is only when people of a different race are beaten or lynched. No. Racism manifested or realized through the domination of one race over another: slavery, human trafficking, imperialism, resource extraction, Nazism, fascism, covert racism, and so on. At its core, it is the ideology of the superiority of one group over another for non-objective reasons, just because they want to, and then specific goals and tasks follow - to steal, to take, to exploit, or simply to mock. It is not just segregation based on skin color or country of origin. It is a deep, unhealthy philosophy that has a painful manifestation at its core, which, by the way, quickly multiplies and reproduces when you consider that there are people who consider themselves "superior" while everyone else should fall in line to serve them. That's it.

- Will we respond?

- We have to address it. And any response, if there is one, will only come after interagency coordination. But we need to understand if all of this is going to be implemented. What "depths" are we talking about? We always assume that common sense has not completely left them. There have been situations where they have retracted their actions or claimed that they were misunderstood.

- You recently stood up for our journalists after the situation where RIA Novosti correspondents and other Russian journalists were not allowed to attend a press conference by French President Emmanuel Macron during the G20 summit. Today, there was a reaction from the French Foreign Ministry. They called your words an exaggeration.

- I used to say that France was a great power. Perhaps I was exaggerating. But regarding this absolutely strange statement from the French Foreign Ministry, I really wish them creative inspiration. I sincerely wish them that from the bottom of my heart, because they have to come up with something more interesting. However, in response to this, the Russian Union of Journalists issued a statement expressing extreme surprise at the position of the French Foreign Ministry. They said that the French Foreign Ministry must recognize the facts; this is not a matter of our assessment. We drew attention to the facts of many years of disrespectful treatment of the Russian media. You represent a holding company that includes, among others, Russia Today, Sputnik, and in one way or another, you have fraternal, kinship connections within a large information association, you know this firsthand. I am talking about what happened.

There was a years-long practice of not allowing Russian journalists to attend the press conferences of both Macron and others. What do you mean, not allowed in? They would send out invitations, journalists would go through accreditation, get there, but then they wouldn't be physically allowed in. How much did they abuse Sputnik, which they finally shut down? How many personal "conversations" took place with representatives of Sputnik and Russia Today, pointing out their personal circumstances and their interest in not being too professional in their reporting? All this happened. And when Russian journalists, or those working there in Paris, refused to compromise in any way, they began to be mistreated. But there were cases beyond good and evil, where RIA Novosti correspondent Victoria Ivanova, while covering the "yellow vest" protest, doing nothing other than her journalistic routine, was hit on the head with a baton. She filed complaints and documents, and several months later, she was told that her case had been rejected because they couldn't establish the circumstances of what happened.

- Despite the presence of video footage, and there is no doubt about who did it, that it was a member of the French law enforcement.

- That is why I am confident that Russia Today journalists will have something to say to the French Foreign Ministry because in reality this is cynicism. But it is also 100% racism. What's the evidence that this is racism? Because sometimes people apologize not because they were wrong, or they offended intentionally or unintentionally.

Sometimes people are offended because someone else has been offended by them. Do you see the difference? Not when there was an intentional or unintentional desire, or it just happened, and someone offended another person, and they apologize, ask for forgiveness, and so on. But sometimes a person is right and circumstances unfold in a certain way. But another person is offended and feels hurt. This is the very occasion when through apology you extend the hand of friendship, of help, of mutual understanding. You show human qualities and say, "Forgive me, forgive us, it probably happened this way. It's not our fault, and we don't feel guilty because we didn't mean to. But we can see that it was unpleasant for you. And it caused problems, and you probably think we did it on purpose. But we didn't." So after we apologize or express our regret for what happened, we should move on and not hold grudges and anger against each other.

- And don't do it again.

- What prevented the French Foreign Ministry from saying just that? Just to express regret for what happened. That's it. I think that would have shown not only wisdom but also something that they obviously lack. Instead, they went down this strange, wild road of making up these phrases. There's a journalist, there's documentary evidence that she was not allowed into the event. There's documentary evidence of how the AlysAe Palace and French officials have behaved toward the Russian media for many years. This, among other things, has a cumulative effect, documentary evidence. It gives a sense of absolute, total discrimination on the basis of nationality. Why can't they even find the word "regret"? Because, again, it's racism. This internal racism that manifests itself in different ways.

A Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Ukraine Loses 235 Military in South Donetsk Direction in Past Day

Sputnik News

20230913

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Ukraine has lost up to 235 military both killed and wounded in the South Donetsk direction over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Wednesday.

Over the given period, Russian armed forces have repelled eight attacks by Ukrainian troops in the Donetsk direction, two attacks each in the South Donetsk, Zaporozhye and Krasny Liman directions.

"Enemy losses in this [South Donetsk] direction amounted to up to 235 Ukrainian military killed and wounded, two armored combat vehicles, three vehicles, as well as an electronic warfare station," the ministry said in a statement.

Ukraine also lost more than 205 military in the Zaporozhye direction and up to 140 military in the Donetsk direction in the past day, the ministry added.

A Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russian Ships Damaged in Sevastopol Missile Attack to Be Repaired

Sputnik News

20230913

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Two Russian navy ships damaged in a Ukrainian missile attack on Sevastopol on Wednesday will be fully repaired, the Defense Ministry said.

"Two naval vessels, which were damaged by a missile attack of the Kiev regime on 13 September, undergoing scheduled repairs at the ship repair plant named after S. Ordzhonikidze in Sevastopol, will be fully restored and will continue their combat service as part of their fleets," the ministry said in a statement.

Fire extinguished at a Sevastopol plant after an overnight attack by the Ukrainian armed forces.

''The fire was extinguished at Sevastopol's Sevmorzavod following a night attack conducted by the Ukrainian armed forces,'' said Governor Mikhail Razvozhayev.

"The fire was promptly put out,'' he added.

The Governor expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Emergency Situations for their efforts in extinguishing the fire, as well as to the medical staff for providing assistance to the injured.

He also announced that further information regarding the victims and their conditions would not be released due to "obvious reasons".

According to a report from the Ministry of Defense, the Kiev regime carried out an attack during the night, using 10 cruise missiles and several drone boats. The target of the strike was the Ordzhonikidze shipyard in Sevastopol and a group of ships from the Black Sea Fleet. Russian air defense units were able to intercept and shoot down seven of the missiles. Two ships that were undergoing repairs suffered damage.

Additionally, the Vasily Bykov patrol ship was successful in destroying all of the drone boats.

Initial data provided by Razvozhayev indicates that 24 people were injured as a result of the Ukrainian strike, with four of them sustaining moderate injuries.The Ukrainian armed forces have been regularly carrying out attacks on Russian border areas, launching drone strikes, and conducting sabotage missions. As a result, a yellow level of terrorist threat has been imposed in the Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Crimea, and Sevastopol regions.

A Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Ukraine Missile Attack in Sevastopol Leaves 24 People Injured - Governor

Sputnik News

20230913

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian air defenses repelled an overnight attack by the Ukrainian armed forces on the city of Sevastopol in Crimea, Governor Mikhail Razvozhayev said early Wednesday.

Razvozhayev indicated that he is on scene near the area where a fire broke out in the city's industrial district, detailing that operational services were on site at the Sevastopol shipyard.

The governor added that 24 people sustained injuries as a result of the missile strike, four of whom were identified as being in "moderate condition." The Sevastopol official further said there is no threat to civilian facilities as a result of the fire.

The situation in the air continues to be monitored as all operational services remain on standby, he went on to underscore.

A subsequent release issued by the Russian Ministry of Defense stated the overnight strike by the Kiev regime included the use of 10 cruise missile and three drone boats.

"Tonight, the Ukrainian armed forces conducted a strike against the shipyard named after Ordzhonikidze in the city of Sevastopol using 10 cruise missiles and attacked a group of ships of the Black Sea Fleet during the movement in the sea using drone boats," the ministry said.

"Air defenses destroyed seven cruise missiles, and the Vasily Bykov patrol ship destroyed all drone boats. As a result of cruise missiles hitting the shipyard, two ships, which were in repair, were damaged."

Over the last several months, Ukraine has repeatedly carried out drones strikes against Russian territory, more recently in the face of its failed counteroffensive. The Russian government has referred to the repeat drone attacks as a "nuisance" as experts have stressed that such efforts are intended to serve as psychological crutch and do not pose a meaningful military intiative.

A Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






G7 Foreign Ministers' Statement on Illegitimate "Elections" in Regions of Ukraine Illegally Occupied by Russia

US Department of State

Media Note

Office of the Spokesperson

September 13, 2023

The text of the following statement was released by the G7 foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union.

Begin Text:

We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, unequivocally condemn the staging of sham "elections" held by Russia on sovereign Ukrainian territory in Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia oblasts and Crimea.

These sham "elections" are a further violation of the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and of the UN Charter.

Russia has no legitimate basis for any such actions on the territory of Ukraine. The sham "elections" are a propaganda exercise aimed at legitimizing Russia's illegal seizure of Ukrainian territory.

In October 2022, 143 states voted at the UN General Assembly to condemn Russia's attempted illegal annexation of sovereign Ukrainian territory, reaffirming that no territorial acquisition resulting from the threat or use of force shall be recognized as legal.

Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia oblasts and Crimea are part of Ukraine. We will never recognize Russia's illegitimate claims to sovereign Ukrainian territory and call on all States to unequivocally reject them.

Since Russia invaded, it has sought to exercise control through policies designed to instill fear and to suppress Ukrainian culture and identity. These include arbitrary detention, torture, forced deportations, forced passportization, 'filtration', and the imposition of Russian law, media, education and currency.

Russia's attempt to create a situation of fait-accompli through these sham "elections" will not alter our approach nor our support to Ukraine as it fights to reclaim its internationally-recognized territory. We will stand with the Ukrainian people and continue to provide the financial, humanitarian, security and diplomatic support Ukraine requires for as long as it takes.

End Text.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UN humanitarian chief in Ukraine condemns 'brutal and relentless' pattern of port attacks

13 September 2023 - A string of Russian attacks on port and grain facilities in Ukraine which began over a month ago, have intensified in recent days, drawing condemnation from the UN's top humanitarian official there.

"There has been almost one attack every other day hitting vital port and grain facilities in Ukraine," said Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Denise Brown, in a statement on Wednesday.

Assault on grain exports

A Russian drone attack early on Wednesday damaged infrastructure at Ukrainian grain-exporting facilities on the Danube River.

Ukrainian officials say buildings including grain warehouses, oil storage tanks and administrative buildings, were destroyed.

The UN, citing port authorities, noted the tragic event had left at least six people injured. No deaths were immediately reported.

'Hugely alarming'

"It is hugely alarming to hear that the two Ukrainian ports in the Danube River were once again struck during overnight Russian attacks on the Odesa Region," Ms. Brown added.

It was the latest attack by Russia on Ukrainian port and grain facilities since Moscow quit the UN-brokered deal that had enabled Ukraine to safely export grain through the Black Sea.

"Today's strike on Ukrainian ports was the 21st of such attacks since Russia's decision to terminate the Black Sea Initiative less than two months ago", said Ms. Brown.

"It is shocking but since 17 July there has been almost one attack every other day hitting vital port and grain facilities in Ukraine."

Withdrawal from grain deal

The grain initiative was struck in July 2022, between Russia, Ukraine, TArkiye and the UN. It enabled the export of more than 32 million tonnes of grain.

But, in mid-July, Russia withdrew from the Initiative, arguing that agricultural exporters were not benefiting as the deal and separate Memorandum of Understanding had laid out.

Since then, only a handful of vessels, none of them carrying grain, have been allowed to sail from Ukraine's Black Sea ports, according to news reports.

Ukraine is a major global supplier of grain such as sunflower oil, bailey, maize and wheat.

The war has caused global food prices to surge and is creating shortages food in Africa and the Middle East. Both import large amounts of food from Ukraine.

Pattern of attacks

"The consequences of this brutal and relentless pattern of Russian attacks are catastrophic for the people of Ukraine and the 345 million people facing hunger worldwide," Ms. Brown warned.

According to news reports, the Governor of the Odesa region that includes the Danube River ports, has said 105 port infrastructure facilities in Ukraine had been damaged and partially destroyed since July 18, the day after Russia quit the Black Sea Initiative.

"International humanitarian law strictly prohibits attacks on civilian infrastructure. This must stop," the Humanitarian Coordinator said.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia: Ukraine Missile Attack Hits Sevastopol Shipyard

By VOA News September 13, 2023

A Ukrainian missile attack hit a strategic shipyard in Russian-annexed Crimea on Wednesday, wounding 24 people, damaging two ships undergoing repairs and setting part of the facility on fire, Russian authorities reported.

Russia's Defense Ministry said Ukraine targeted the shipyard in Sevastopol with 10 cruise missiles and three unmanned boats, and that Russian air defenses destroyed seven of the missiles and all the boats. The shipyard serves as the main base for Russia's Black Sea fleet.

Meanwhile, the Ukraine presidential office said that Russian attacks killed at least three civilians and injured another 14 across the country. One of the assaults was a pre-dawn attack in southern Ukraine's Odesa region that damaged port and civilian infrastructure in the region's Izmail district, a hub for Ukrainian grain shipments on the Danube River.

The United Nations said Wednesday that such attacks on civilian infrastructure must stop.

"Today's strike on Ukrainian ports was the 21st of such attacks since Russia's decision to terminate the Black Sea Initiative less than two months ago," U.N. humanitarian coordinator for Ukraine Denise Brown said in a statement. "The consequences of this brutal and relentless pattern of Russian attacks are catastrophic for the people of Ukraine and the 345 million people facing hunger worldwide."

Overall, Russia hit 10 cities and villages in the Donetsk region on Wednesday, with other attacks in the Zaporizhzhia region and Kherson.

Ukraine has increasingly launched attacks in the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has vowed to reclaim the territory even as much of the ground fighting with Russian troops has been centered in eastern Ukraine as part of Kyiv's counteroffensive.

Ukraine said Monday it had recaptured strategic gas and oil drilling platforms in the Black Sea that Russia seized in 2015. Moscow's forces have used the platforms for electronic warfare equipment and to launch helicopters, and Ukraine said getting control of them would eventually help it regain Crimea.

Ukraine's RBC-Ukraine news outlet, citing unnamed sources in Ukrainian military intelligence, reported that a Russian amphibious landing ship and a submarine were damaged in Wednesday's Sevastopol attack. Some Russian messaging app channels made the same claim. The Russian Defense Ministry said its damaged warships would be fully repaired and return to naval service.

As is often the case, Ukrainian officials had no immediate comments on the attack, but in what appeared to be a tacit claim of responsibility, Ukraine's air force chief posted a picture of the burning shipyard and praised Ukrainian forces for their work.

Kyiv has acknowledged past attacks on Crimea but has avoided claiming responsibility for drone attacks on Moscow and other regions of Russia.

Some information in this article came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






G7 Slams Russia for 'Sham Elections' in Occupied Regions of Ukraine

By VOA News September 13, 2023

Foreign ministers of the G7 and European Union have condemned "sham elections" in Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine, saying they are meant to legitimize Moscow's rule in areas illegally seized by force.

The elections took place in Crimea and the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson, where President Vladimir Putin's United Russia party says it won at least 70% of the overall vote. Detailed results have yet to be released.

In the statement issued Wednesday, the ministers said the elections are a further violation of Ukraine's independence and sovereignty. "Russia has no legitimate basis for any such actions on the territory of Ukraine," the statement reads.

Watchdogs say the vote was rigged. "[T]hese are not real elections," said Stanislav Andreychuk, who co-chairs Golos, an independent Russian election monitor.

Andreychuk said he has evidence of widespread political suppression, including opposition candidates being thrown into jail and having their cars vandalized. In one instance, a poll-watcher was even handed draft papers.

United Russia is expected to use the election success it has claimed for itself to exercise unbridled political control in the contested territories, including quashing potential uprisings. The party has appointed a mix of veteran separatist bosses and young pro-Putin officials to regional posts.

Russia already tortures, arbitrarily detains, and forcibly deports dissidents "to instill fear and to suppress Ukrainian culture," the G7 statement said. As far as the G7 is concerned, these elections will only tighten Moscow's iron grip.

But the Kremlin claims positive opinion polls and landslide election results are proof that United Russia serves the public interest.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UN's work and mission 'more vital than ever': Guterres

13 September 2023 - In a world grappling with increasingly complex crises ranging from poverty and inequality to the climate emergency, the United Nations remains at the forefront of the global response, determined to set humanity on a path to peace and prosperity, Secretary-General AntAnio Guterres has said.

In his Annual Report on the work of the Organization, released on Wednesday, ahead of the gathering of world leaders at UN Headquarters in New York, Mr. Guterres highlighted how the UN has stepped up.

"Nowhere are the needs greater than in the midst of emergencies," he said.

"In 2022, together with our partners on the ground, we coordinated humanitarian response plans for 216 million people across 69 countries and territories and delivered life-saving assistance and protection to nearly 160 million people in urgent need."

The UN also mobilized a record $30 billion in humanitarian aid from donors globally, enabling life-saving programmes in Ukraine, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Somalia and many other crisis hotspots.

Peace: UN's beating heart

Peacekeeping, peacebuilding and protecting vulnerable populations remained at the centre of the Organization's work.

"Peace is the beating heart of the United Nations. Our teams deployed a wide range of tools to prevent, mitigate, manage and resolve conflicts, while protecting the people affected by them," Mr. Guterres said.

These efforts spanned from brokering truces in Yemen to overseeing 41 special political missions, 12 peacekeeping operations, and channelling $231 million from the Peacebuilding Fund to support work across 37 countries, with a significant portion dedicated to empowering women and young people.

The UN also continued its collaboration with regional organizations, including the African Union, to foster peace in countries that have long suffered from conflict.

Fighting hunger

It also played a pivotal role in the Black Sea Initiative, which involved TuIrkiye, Russia and Ukraine, aimed at mitigating global hunger and sustaining food supplies.

The Initiative and a parallel UN-Russian accord enabled the export of over 32 million tons of grain, other foodstuff and fertilizers to global markets. Over half the food exports went to developing countries.

The Initiative was not renewed after its third term, which expired in July.

Promoting human rights

As COVID-19 lockdowns subsided, the UN helped human rights bodies to resume in-person work, including through regular and special sessions of the Human Rights Council, and over 50 in-country visits by independent rights experts.

It conducted trainings for police and security forces in over a dozen countries and territories, promoting respect for international human rights standards, and deployed emergency response teams in seven locations globally to anticipate and respond to crises.

The UN also supported assistance given to 47,000 victims of torture and more than 13,000 victims of contemporary forms of slavery.

Committed staff

The commitment of UN staff members shone through in their dedication to addressing global crises and setting humanity on a new path to peace, stability and prosperity, Mr. Guterres said.

"The United Nations will never stop fighting for a better future," he added.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Riverdale, NJ, Sept. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --



Camfil, a global leader in air filtration solutions, proudly congratulates its customers who have been recognized by the National Air Filtration Association (NAFA) with the Clean Air Award for 2023. This prestigious award is presented to building owners and managers who have significantly improved indoor air quality through enhanced HVAC air filtration systems.

Camfil Celebrates Clean Air Award

The following Camfil customers have been honored:

Centre of Forensic Sciences - Submitted by: Joshua Guthrie, CAFS Camfil Canada

Gay Lee Foods - Submitted by: Joshua Guthrie, CAFS Camfil Canada

London City Centre (Europro) - Submitted by: Jon Holmes, CAFS Camfil Canada

St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center - Submitted by: Kathy Garuccio, CAFS, NCT Camfil USA

Sunridge Mall - Submitted by: Thomas Leary, CAFS Camfil Canada

Terry McConnell | Music City Center - Submitted by: Connor Patton Camfil USA

Camfil's commitment to improving indoor air quality is evident through the recognition of its dedicated customer by NAFA. The company continues to innovate and provide solutions that not only meet but exceed industry standards.

"We are immensely proud of our team members who have been recognized by NAFA. This is a testament to Camfil's dedication to enhancing indoor air quality and our continuous efforts to provide the best solutions to our clients," said Kevin Wood, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Camfil USA, Inc..

For more information about Camfil and its range of air filtration solutions, please visit www.camfil.us.

About NAFA

The National Air Filtration Association (NAFA) is a nonprofit trade association whose members include air filter and component manufacturers, sales and service companies, and HVAC and indoor air quality professionals across the United States and in several foreign countries. NAFA is comprised of individuals and companies engaged in the sale, service, and manufacture of air filtration products.

About Camfil

Camfil is a global leader in the commercial and industrial air filtration industry with 60 years of experience. Camfil solutions protect people, processes, and the environment to benefit human health, increase performance, and reduce and control energy consumption. With offices and factories around the globe, Camfil is dedicated to providing clean air solutions that keep people healthier and enhance their quality of life.

Lynne Laake | Director of Marketing | Camfil USA Inc.

Phone: +1 (513) 324-8346 | Mobile: +1 (513) 324-8346

Lynne.Laake@camfil.com | www.camfil.com




TORONTO, Sept. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Currency Exchange International, Corp. (the Group or CXI) (TSX: CXI; OTCBB: CURN), announces its financial results and Managements Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) for the three and nine-month periods ended July 31, 2023 (all figures are in U.S. dollars except where otherwise indicated). The complete financial statements and MD&A can be found on the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.



Randolph Wolfgang Pinna, CEO of the Group, stated, The third quarter of 2023 demonstrated strong year-over-year growth as increased demand for international travel continues. The return to more traditional seasonality in travel patterns have translated into the third quarter showing continued strong growth in banknotes revenue. Continued execution against our strategic plan, in which significant investments are being made in our people, infrastructure and technology platforms to support more efficient future growth remains a top priority. The third quarter continued the successful transition to our new organizational structure that took effect on November 1, 2022, and I am confident that we have the right team and systems to achieve our vision of remaining a leading preferred provider of foreign exchange solutions for financial institutions globally.

Corporate Highlights for the three-months ended July 31, 2023:

The Group experienced significant growth, 11% in the Banknotes product line with increased market share as both wholesale and consumer demand for foreign currencies continued to improve as international travel reaches near pre-COVID levels in both the U.S. and Canada;

The Group continued its focus and investment in the International Payments product line, having processed 32,675 payments transactions, representing $2.6 billion in volume in the three-month period ended July 31, 2023. This compares to 29,824 transactions on $2.7 billion of volume in the three-month period ending July 31, 2022;

The Group increased growth in the financial institutions sector in the U.S. with the addition of 157 new clients, representing 377 transacting locations; and

The Group continued its growth in the direct-to-consumer market, adding 13 new airport agent locations and 14 new non-airport agent locations.

Financial Highlights for the three-months ended July 31, 2023, compared to the three-months ended July 31, 2022:

Revenue increased 10% or $2.2 million to $23.3 million for the three-month period ended July 31, 2023, as compared to $21.1 million in the three-month period ending July 31, 2022. The Banknotes product line accounted for $19.5 million of the revenue, an increase of 11% and the Payments product line represented $3.8 million of the revenue, an increase of 7% over the prior year;

Net operating income for the three-month period ended July 31, 2023 amounted to $6.4 million, 12% or $0.9 million lower than the $7.3 million net operating income in the same period in the prior year;

Net income amounted to $4.1 million in the three-month period ended July 31, 2023, a 12%, or $0.5 million decline from $4.6 million of net income in the same period in the prior year;

Earnings per share was $0.63 on a basic and $0.60 on a fully diluted basis for the three-month period ended July 31, 2023, compared to earnings per share of $0.71 and $0.70, respectively, in the same period in the prior year; and

The Group had strong liquidity and capital positions of $68.7 million in net working capital, and $77.6 million in total equity as of July 31, 2023.

Financial Highlights for the nine-months ended July 31, 2023, compared to the nine-months ended July 31, 2022:

Revenue increased 22% or $10.3 million to $58.0 million for the nine-month period ended July 31, 2023, as compared to $47.7 million in the nine-month period ending July 31, 2022. The Banknotes product line accounted for $47.7 million of the revenue, an increase of 23% and the Payments product line represented $10.3 million of the revenue, an increase of 16% over the prior year;

Net operating income for the nine-month period ended July 31, 2023, amounted to $12.9 million, $0.4 million, or 3%, lower than net operating income of $13.3 million in the same period in the prior year;

Net income increased 7% or $0.5 million to $7.9 million in the nine-month period ended July 31, 2023, from a net income of $7.4 million in the same period in the prior year;

Cash flows from operating activities, excluding the changes in balance sheet accounts, amounted to $10.5 million in the nine-month period ended July 31, 2023, compared to $10.2 million in the same period in the prior year; and

Earnings per share was $1.23 on a basic and $1.18 on a fully diluted basis for the nine-month period ended July 31, 2023 compared to earnings per share of $1.15 and $1.13, respectively, in the same period in the prior year.

Selected Financial Data

Three-months

ending Revenue Net operating

income Net income Total assets Total equity Earnings per

share (diluted) $ $ $ $ $ $ 7/31/2023 23,363,600 6,437,153 4,055,276 129,643,409 77,590,126 0.60 4/30/2023 18,345,342 3,743,075 2,243,714 134,697,253 73,104,851 0.33 1/31/2023 16,468,402 2,734,159 1,589,499 133,072,968 71,448,732 0.24 10/31/2022 19,800,463 5,401,678 4,383,876 125,528,832 69,305,509 0.66 7/31/2022 21,145,189 7,321,521 4,585,808 155,757,016 65,598,381 0.70 4/30/2022 14,071,953 2,888,757 1,308,445 150,804,096 60,821,752 0.19 1/31/2022 12,450,282 3,111,368 1,504,999 129,297,226 59,332,997 0.23 10/31/2021 10,125,893 775,748 1,633,766 102,982,531 58,015,799 0.25

Conference Call

The Company plans to host a conference call on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at 8:30 AM (EST).

To participate in or listen to the call, please dial the appropriate number:

Toll Free - North America: (+1) 888 886 7786

Conference ID Number: 54676256

About Currency Exchange International, Corp.

Currency Exchange International is in the business of providing comprehensive foreign exchange technology and processing services for banks, credit unions, businesses, and consumers in the United States and select clients globally. Primary products and services include the exchange of foreign currencies, wire transfer payments, Global EFTs, and foreign cheque clearing. Wholesale customers are served through its proprietary FX software applications delivered on its web-based interface, www.cxifx.com (CXIFX), its related APIs with core banking platforms, and through personal relationship managers. Consumers are served through Group-owned retail branches, agent retail branches, and its e-commerce platform, order.ceifx.com (OnlineFX).

The Groups wholly-owned Canadian subsidiary, Exchange Bank of Canada, based in Toronto, Canada, provides foreign exchange and international payment services in Canada and select international foreign jurisdictions. Customers are served through the use of its proprietary software, www.ebcfx.com (EBCFX), related APIs to core banking platforms, and personal relationship managers.

Contact Information

For further information please contact:

Bill Mitoulas

Investor Relations

(416) 479-9547

Email: bill.mitoulas@cxifx.com

Website: www.cxifx.com

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This press release includes forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. This forward-looking information includes, or may be based upon, estimates, forecasts, and statements as to managements expectations with respect to, among other things, demand and market outlook for wholesale and retail foreign currency exchange products and services, future growth, the timing and scale of future business plans, results of operations, performance, and business prospects and opportunities. Forward-looking statements are identified by the use of terms and phrases such as anticipate, believe, could, estimate, expect, intend, may, plan, predict, preliminary, project, will, would, and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions.

Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date such information is provided, and on information available to management at such time. Forward-looking information involves significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause the Companys actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from the results discussed or implied in such forward-looking information. Actual results may differ materially from results indicated in forward-looking information due to a number of factors including, without limitation, the competitive nature of the foreign exchange industry, the impact of COVID-19 or the evolving situation in Ukraine on factors relevant to the Companys business, currency exchange risks, the need for the Company to manage its planned growth, the effects of product development and the need for continued technological change, protection of the Companys proprietary rights, the effect of government regulation and compliance on the Company and the industry in which it operates, network security risks, the ability of the Company to maintain properly working systems, theft and risk of physical harm to personnel, reliance on key management personnel, global economic deterioration negatively impacting tourism, volatile securities markets impacting security pricing in a manner unrelated to operating performance and impeding access to capital or increasing the cost of capital as well as the factors identified throughout this press release and in the section entitled Risks and Uncertainties of the Companys Managements Discussion and Analysis for the three and nine-months ended July 31, 2023. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents managements expectations as of the date hereof (or as of the date such information is otherwise stated to be presented) and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities laws.

The Toronto Stock Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained in this press release.
Wilmington, Delaware, Sept. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Australia 3D Printing Market was valued at US$ 84 million in 2022 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR of over 8.7% over the forecast period of 2023-2030, according to the latest market report by RationalStat

Market Definition, Market Scope, and Report Overview

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a groundbreaking manufacturing method that makes three-dimensional items by layering material. In contrast to traditional subtractive manufacturing procedures, which require cutting or molding a material to make an object, 3D printing constructs objects from the ground up, making it a very adaptable and efficient form of production.

Because of its versatility, cost-effectiveness, customization capabilities, and applications in a wide range of industries, the 3D printing business is quickly expanding. As technology advances, 3D printing is projected to play a growing role in manufacturing, innovation, and product development.

According to a deep-dive market assessment by RationalStat, the Australia 3D printing market has been analyzed on the basis of market segments, including component, printer type, process, end user and geography/regions (including Western Australia, Southern Australia, Eastern Australia, Northern and Central Australia) . The report also offers Australia and regional market sizing for the historical period of 2019-2022 and the forecast period of 2023-2030.

. The report also offers Australia and regional market sizing for the historical period of 2019-2022 and the forecast period of 2023-2030. Market intelligence for the Australia 3D printing market covers market sizes on the basis of market value (US$/EUR Million) and volume (Units) by various products/services/equipment, demand assessment across the key regions, customer sentiments, price points, cost structures, margin analysis across the value chain, financial assessments, historical and forecast data, key developments across the industry, import-export data, trade overview, components market by leading companies, etc.

In addition, the long-term sector and products/services 10-year outlook and its implications on the Australia 3D printing market. It also includes the industry's current state  Production Levels, Capacity Utilization, Tech quotient, etc. Key information will be manufacturing capacity by country, installed base, import volumes, market size, key players, market size, dynamics, market data, insights, etc.

Request A Customization- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/australia-3d-printing-market/#tab-ux_global_tab

Australia 3D Printing Market: Segmental and Market Share Analysis

On the basis of component, with advances in printing technology and materials, the service category is predicted to develop at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period.

On the basis of printer type, in 2022, the industrial 3D printer sector led the market, accounting for more than 72% of the entire market. This is because industrial printers are widely used in heavy industries.

On the basis of end user, due to the desire for newer, better-performing automobiles, the automotive area is predicted to be the fastest expanding vertical in the 3D printing market.





Report Synopsis

Report Metrics Details Base Year 2022 Forecast Period 2023-2030 Base Year Market Size US$ 84 million Market Size Forecast US$ 164 million Growth Rate 8.7% Key Market Drivers Expanding education and research industry

Industry 4.0 and IoT integration Companies Profiled Titomic Ltd

Effusiontech Pty Ltd (SPEE3D)

Aurora Labs Ltd.

Objective3D, Inc

Inventia Life Science Pty Ltd.

Afaridan Plastics

CSCAN

Roboze

Anatomics Pty Ltd

Triton3D





Explore more about this report- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/australia-3d-printing-market/#tab-ux_global_tab

Competition Analysis and Market Structure

These players adopt various strategies in order to reinforce their market share and gain a competitive edge over other competitors in the market. Mergers & acquisitions, partnerships and collaborations, and product launches are some of the strategies followed by industry players. Some of the key developments in the Australia 3D printing market include,

In 2022, Carbon wasted little time in unveiled its latest Digital Light Synthesis product versions. The M3 series featured faster print times and simpler user interfaces, while the M3 Max featured a genuine 4K light engine that allowed for double the build area with the same pixel size and density.

Some of the prominent players and suppliers operating and contributing significantly to the Australia 3D printing market growth include Titomic Ltd, Effusiontech Pty Ltd (SPEE3D), Aurora Labs Ltd., Objective3D, Inc, Inventia Life Science Pty Ltd., Afaridan Plastics, CSCAN, Roboze, Anatomics Pty Ltd, and Triton3D, among others.

Get A Free Sample- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/australia-3d-printing-market/#tab-ux_global_tab

RationalStat has segmented the Australia 3D printing market based on component, printer type, process, end user, and region

Australia 3D Printing Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units) and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Component Hardware Software Services

Australia 3D Printing Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units) and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Printer Type Desktop 3D Printer Industrial 3D Printer

Australia 3D Printing Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units) and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Process Binder Jetting Direct Energy Deposition Material Extrusion Material Jetting Others

Australia 3D Printing Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units) and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by End User Education Research Healthcare Aerospace Automotive

Australia 3D Printing Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Units) and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Region Australia 3D Printing Market Western Australia Southern Australia Eastern Australia Northern and Central Australia



For more information about this report- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/australia-3d-printing-market/

Key Questions Answered in the 3D Printing Report:

What will be the market value of the Australia 3D printing market by 2030?

What is the market size of the Australia 3D printing market?

What are the market drivers of the Australia 3D printing market?

What are the key trends in the Australia 3D printing market?

Which is the leading region in the Australia 3D printing market?

What are the major companies operating in the Australia 3D printing market?

What are the market shares by key segments in the Australia 3D printing market?

Explore Our Trending Reports

Research Methodology

RationalStat has developed a state-of-the-art research methodology to crunch numbers and provide the best possible real-time insights to clients. We combine a varied range of industry experience, data analytics, and experts viewpoint to create a research methodology for market sizing and forecasting.

RationalStat combines a mix of secondary sources as well as primary research to assess the market size and develop a forecast. Key steps involved in accurately deriving the market numbers are:

Defining the problem by understanding the type of market and data required by the client.

Data gathering and collection through relevant paid databases, publicly available sources, company reports, annual reports, surveys, and interviews.

Formulating a hypothesis to create market numbers, forecasts, influencing factors, and their relevance.

Evaluating and analyzing the data by referring to data sources utilized and leveraged.

Validating, interpreting, and finalizing the data by combining the details gathered from primary and secondary sources with the help of experienced analysts.

Download Key Insights and Market Data - Raise a Query

About RationalStat LLC

RationalStat is an end-to-end Australia market intelligence and consulting company that provides comprehensive market research reports, customized strategy, and consulting studies. The company has sales offices in India, Mexico, and the US to support Australia and diversified businesses. The company has over 80 consultants and industry experts, developing more than 850 market research and industry reports for its report store annually.

RationalStat has strategic partnerships with leading data analytics and consumer research companies to cater to the clients needs. Additional services offered by the company include consumer research, country reports, risk reports, valuations and advisory, financial research, due diligence, procurement and supply chain research, data analytics, and analytical dashboards.

Contact

RationalStat LLC

Kimberly Shaw,

Content and Press Manager

sales@rationalstat.com

US Phone: +1 302 803 5429

UK Phone: +44 203-287-1245
Selbyville, Delaware, Sept. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --



Luxury Footwear Market size is expected to be worth USD 44 billion by 2032. The rising focus of several luxury footwear brands on embracing customization and personalization options for catering to the discerning tastes of their clientele.

Request for a sample of this research report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/6284

The influx of digitalization has made customization more accessible, with online platforms and virtual tools enabling customers to design their ideal luxury footwear from the comfort of their homes, further augmenting the industry outlook. To cite an instance, in October 2021, London-based luxury footwear firm, Malone Souliers, launched its new digital made-to-order platform for allowing its consumers from across the world to customize its popular designs.

Luxury boots to gain significant traction

Luxury footwear market from the boots product segment is anticipated to witness from 2023-2032. The rising global affluence has bolstered higher consumer spending on luxury items, including high-end boots, as individuals are seeking to make fashion statements and indulge in premium products. Moreover, the growing affinity for luxury brands and the great allure of exclusivity is driving the demand for opulent footwear. Furthermore, the rising sustainability concerns have prompted several luxury boot manufacturers to embrace eco-friendly practices to cater to environmentally conscious consumers.

High product sales through online distribution channels

Luxury footwear market from the online distribution channel segment experienced substantial expansion in 2022. The higher availability of extensive selection of luxury footwear on online platforms is allowing customers to explore various styles, brands, and price ranges with ease. The convenience of online shopping due to its features, such as virtual try-ons and easy returns has also attracted a broader customer base. The rising importance of social media and influencer marketing in promoting luxury footwear brands.

Asia Pacific to emerge as a pivotal market destination

Asia Pacific held sizable share of the luxury footwear market in 2022 and is poised to generate USD 12.3 billion in revenue by 2032. The robust economic progression, the burgeoning middle-class population, and the increasing appetite for high-end fashion has offered fertile ground for expansion for several brands. For instance, in November 2022, Louis Vuitton launched its exclusive footwear collection in India in an attempt to honor the rich cultural heritage of India while fusing it with well-known aesthetics and branding. Moreover, the growing number of affluent consumers in China.

Request for Report Customization @ https://www.gminsights.com/roc/6284

Luxury Footwear Industry Participants

Some of the major companies in the luxury footwear market are PVH, LVMH, Chanel, Capri Holding, Kering, Mulberry Group, and Dr. Martens.

To cite an instance, in August 2023, Tapestry, Inc., a luxury fashion company, expanded its brand portfolio with the $8.5 billion acquisition of rival global fashion luxury firm, Capri Holdings Limited, the owner of Versace and Jimmy Choo.

Partial Table of Contents (ToC) of the report:

Chapter 3 Luxury Footwear Market Industry Insights

3.1 Impact of COVID-19

3.2 Impact of the Russia-Ukraine war

3.3 China-U.S. trade war impact

3.4 Industry ecosystem analysis

3.5 Product & innovation landscape

3.6 Patent analysis

3.7 Key news and initiatives

3.7.1 Partnership/Collaboration

3.7.2 Merger/Acquisition

3.7.3 Investment

3.7.4 Product launch & innovation

3.8 Regulatory landscape

3.9 Impact forces

3.9.1 Growth drivers

3.9.1.1 Rise in disposable income across the globe

3.9.1.2 Increasing fashion consciousness

3.9.1.3 Celebrity endorsement and influencer marketing

3.9.1.4 Rise in footwear customizations and personalization

3.9.1.5 Growing male luxury footwear market

3.9.2 Industry pitfalls & challenges

3.9.2.1 Concerns over fake luxury footwear

3.10 Growth potential analysis

3.11 Porters analysis

3.12 PESTEL analysis

Chapter 4 Competitive Landscape, 2022

4.1 Introduction

4.2 Company market share, 2022

4.3 Competitive analysis of major market players, 2022

4.3.1 LVMH

4.3.2 PVH

4.3.3 Chanel

4.3.4 Capri Holding

4.3.5 Kering

4.3.6 Dr. Martens

4.3.7 Prada S.p.A

4.4 Competitive positioning matrix, 2022

4.5 Strategic outlook matrix, 2022

Browse Our Reports Store - GMIPulse @ https://www.gminsights.com/gmipulse

About Global Market Insights

Global Market Insights Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider, offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy, and biotechnology.
NEWARK, Del, Sept. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The cultured meat market has experienced significant growth, surging from US$ 2.1 billion in 2022 to US$ 2.3 billion in 2023. Projections for 2033 are highly optimistic, with anticipated sales reaching US$ 8.2 billion, driven by a CAGR of 13.5% from 2023 to 2033.



The cultured meat industry is experiencing substantial growth, primarily driven by the increasing awareness of environmental sustainability and the need to address the challenges posed by traditional livestock farming. Consumers are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of meat production, which includes high greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water usage. As a result, there is a growing demand for alternative, eco-friendly protein sources. Cultured meat offers a promising solution, requiring fewer resources and generating fewer emissions than conventional meat production.

Request our sample report to gain a competitive advantage in the dynamic industry: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-15001

While the cultured meat industry holds significant promise, it faces several challenges and restraints. One of the primary concerns is the high production cost associated with scaling up cultured meat production. Currently, producing cultured meat at a competitive price remains a hurdle for many companies. Additionally, regulatory approvals and consumer acceptance pose potential roadblocks. As cultured meat is a relatively new concept, gaining regulatory approval in various countries can be time-consuming and complex. Moreover, winning over consumers accustomed to traditional meat products and ensuring that cultured meat meets their taste and quality expectations is crucial for industry growth.

Despite the challenges, the cultured meat industry presents numerous opportunities. One of the most significant opportunities lies in meeting the increasing global demand for protein. As the world's population continues to grow, traditional meat production methods may struggle to keep up with demand. Cultured meat offers a sustainable and scalable solution to bridge this gap, potentially revolutionizing the protein industry. Moreover, the rise of health-conscious and ethically-driven consumers creates a market segment that is receptive to cultured meat products. Companies offering healthy, eco-friendly, and cruelty-free meat alternatives stand to gain a competitive edge.

The diversification of cultured meat products is gaining momentum. Beyond traditional meat cuts, companies are exploring the creation of cultured seafood, such as shrimp and fish, catering to a broader range of consumer preferences. Secondly, the focus on cost reduction through process optimization and innovative production methods is intensifying. Researchers are working on improving cell culture efficiency and reducing production costs, making cultured meat more economically viable. The development of hybrid products, blending cultured meat with plant-based ingredients, is on the rise. These products aim to provide the taste and texture of conventional meat while reducing the environmental footprint.

Key Takeaways from the Cultured Meat Market:

Poultry cultured meat claims a substantial 42.1% market share in 2023.

The food services industry dominates with a 49% market share in 2023.

The United States commands a notable 24.6% value share in 2023.

Germany secures an 8.4% value share of the cultured meat market in 2023.

Japan holds a 4.1% value share in the cultured meat market for 2023.

Australia captures a 2.4% value share in the cultured meat market for 2023.

China commands a significant 13.2% value share in the cultured meat market for 2023.



The shift toward establishing localized cultured meat production facilities is a promising step in addressing environmental concerns associated with traditional meat production, as it reduces transportation emissions and aligns with the growing demand for sustainable food sources in specific regions opines our Lead Analyst Future Market Insights

Request Report Methodology to Dive Deep into our Data-sourcing Process: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/request-report-methodology/rep-gb-15001

Key Players and Strategies for Success in the Cutting-Edge Cultured Meat Market

The competitive landscape of the cultured meat industry is characterized by a dynamic mix of established players and innovative startups. Leading companies, such as Beyond Meat, Impossible Foods, and Memphis Meats, have paved the way for this industry by introducing plant-based and cell-based meat alternatives that resonate with changing consumer preferences.

In recent years, there has been a surge in investment and collaboration within the industry, with venture capital firms and major food conglomerates entering the fray. These strategic partnerships and financial investments aim to accelerate research and development, scale production, and expand market reach.

Furthermore, regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), have been actively engaged in shaping the regulatory framework for cultured meat products. This involvement is expected to provide clarity and confidence to both consumers and industry players regarding safety and labeling standards.

As the cultured meat market continues to evolve, competition is intensifying, leading to ongoing innovation in product development, production processes, and distribution channels. Market participants are also focusing on addressing challenges related to cost-effectiveness and scalability to ensure that cultured meat products become more accessible to a broader consumer base.

Key Companies in the Market

Memphis Meats

JUST

Aleph Farms

Finless Foods

Cultured Beef

Future Meat Technologies

Mosa Meat

SuperMeat

BlueNalu

Meatable

Cell-based Alchemy



Key Developments in the Market

In June 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the sale of cultured chicken products from Upside Foods and Good Meat. This was a major milestone for the cultured meat industry, as it was the first time that cultured meat had been approved for sale in the United States.

In March 2023, Steakholder Foods announced that it had signed a memorandum of understanding with a food technology company to develop and commercialize cultured meat products. This is a significant development, as it shows that major food companies are starting to take an interest in cultured meat.

In February 2023, the Japanese government announced that it would invest US$ 100 million in the development of cultured meat. This is a major boost for the cultured meat industry in Japan, which is seen as a potential leader in this field.



Uncover the Potential of the Cultured Meat Market! Purchase now and delve into the intricacies of each segment: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/15001

Key Segments of the Cultured Meat Market

By Meat Type:

Poultry

Pork

Beef

Seafood

Others



By Application:

Food Services Industry

Pet Food Industry

Others



By Region:

North America

Latin America

Europe

East Asia

South Asia

Oceania

Middle East & Africa



Author by

Nandini Roy Choudhury (Client Partner for Food & Beverages at Future Market Insights, Inc.) has 7+ years of management consulting experience. She advises industry leaders and explores off-the-eye opportunities and challenges. She puts processes and operating models in place to support their business objectives. She has exceptional analytical skills and often brings thought leadership to the table.

Nandini has vast functional expertise in key niches, including but not limited to food ingredients, nutrition & health solutions, animal nutrition, and marine nutrients. She is also well-versed in the pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, retail, and chemical sectors, where she advises market participants to develop methodologies and strategies that deliver results.

Her core expertise lies in corporate growth strategy, sales and marketing effectiveness, acquisitions and post-merger integration and cost reduction. Nandini has an MBA in Finance from MIT School of Business. She also holds a Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering from Nagpur University, India. Nandini has authored several publications, and quoted in journals including Beverage Industry, Bloomberg, and Wine Industry Advisor.

Explore FMIs related ongoing Coverage in Food and Beverage Domain

Meat Substitutes Market: In 2033, the meat substitutes market is expected to be worth approximately US$ 8.5 billion. Global demand for meat substitutes is expected to rise at a yearly growth rate of 5.0% Y-o-Y to US$ 67.9 billion in 2033.

Meat Seasonings Market: The meat seasonings market is anticipated to record a CAGR of 6.9% during the forecast period, up from US$ 4,599.4 Mn in 2022 to reach a valuation of US$ 8,963.5 Mn by 2032.

Meat Stabilizers Blends Market: Meat Stabilizers Blends Market Research Forecast & Analysis by 2030.

Meat Alternative Market: The global meat alternative market is expected to reach a valuation of US$ 13.9 billion by 2023. A valuation of around US$ 230 billion is anticipated for the global market in 2033.

Meat Emulsions Market: The meat emulsions market is estimated to secure a valuation of US$15.6 Billion in 2023 and is estimated to rise to US$ 28.4 Billion by 2033.

Old Source: Cultured Meat Market is Estimated to Generate a Revenue of US$ 22.6 Bn by 2032

About Future Market Insights (FMI)

Future Market Insights, Inc. (ESOMAR certified, recipient of the Stevie Award, and a member of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce) offers profound insights into the driving factors that are boosting demand in the market. FMI stands as the leading global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, consulting, and events for the Packaging, Food and Beverage, Consumer Technology, Healthcare, Industrial, and Chemicals markets. With a vast team of over 5000 analysts worldwide, FMI provides global, regional, and local expertise on diverse domains and industry trends across more than 110 countries.

Contact Us:

Nandini Singh Sawlani

Future Market Insights Inc.

Christiana Corporate, 200 Continental Drive,

Suite 401, Newark, Delaware - 19713, USA

T: +1-845-579-5705

For Sales Enquiries: sales@futuremarketinsights.com

Website: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com

LinkedIn| Twitter| Blogs | YouTube
Mucosal route induces both localized and systemic immunity

Intravacc is currently developing 3 OMV-based intranasal vaccines

Article published in peer-reviewed journal Current Opinions in Immunology



BILTHOVEN, Netherlands, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Intravacc, a leading Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) specializing in translational research and the development of preventive and therapeutic vaccines, has announced the publication of a review on the efficacy of intranasally administered outer membrane vesicle (OMV)-based vaccines. The paper presents promising results in combatting various emerging and potentially fatal infectious diseases that infiltrate mucosal tissues, such as the oral, nasal, and urogenital surfaces. The review article has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Current Opinion in Immunology' Volume 84, 2023.





Dr. Peter van der Ley, senior scientist of Intravacc and lead author, stated:

Our review showcases OMVs' potential in mucosal immunization. They prompt robust local and distant immune responses. This offers a new angle for battling infectious diseases."

The review article highlights OMVs, released from Gram-negative bacteria, as promising vaccine candidates. They can carry diverse antigens, including those from viruses and bacteria, making them a versatile vaccine platform, especially when administered intranasally. By targeting the mucosal route, vaccines can induce both localized and systemic immunity. The findings, backed by animal trials, demonstrate OMV-based vaccines' efficacy against various pathogens. They also stress the safety and feasibility of intranasal delivery as an alternative to needles. The review points to ongoing clinical trials. OMV-based vaccines fuel optimism for innovative vaccine strategies that tap into mucosal immunitys untapped potential.

Dr. Jan Groen, Intravaccs CEO, says:

As a CDMO, we are presently developing three OMV-based intranasal vaccines to address bacterial and viral infections for diverse customers. This illustrates the extensive potential of our OMV platform technology, which can also be harnessed for therapeutic vaccines, including those for cancer.

About Intravaccs OMV platform technology

For the development of vaccines, Intravacc has designed and developed a platform based on OMVs - spherical particles with intrinsic immune-stimulating properties. The OMVs can be designed with immunogenic peptides and/or proteins that stimulate effective adaptive immunity. The OMV carrier has been optimized to induce a more effective immune response against these newly introduced antigens. Intravacc has also developed genetic tools to increase the yield of the OMVs, reduce the toxicity and achieve the desired antigenic composition. Intravacc's OMV platform is scalable and allows rapid and efficient modification of the antigen composition, either through genetic modification of the bacterial host or by associating antigens with stored OMVs.

Watch the animation about Intravacc's Avacc 10 intranasal COVID Vaccine

About Intravacc

Intravacc, located at Utrecht Science Park Bilthoven in the Netherlands, is a leading global CDMO for infectious diseases and therapeutic vaccines. As an established independent CDMO with many years of experience in the development and optimization of vaccines and vaccine technologies, Intravacc has transferred its technology world-wide for many vaccines including polio, measles, DPT, Hib and influenza. Approximately 30% of childhood disease vaccines are based on Intravaccs know-how and proprietary technology. Intravacc offers a wide range of expertise for independent vaccine development, from concept to Phase I/II clinical studies for partners around the world, including biotech and pharmaceutical companies, governmental agencies and NGOs. With its innovative vaccine platforms OMV-VaccT, Cell-VaccT, Con-VaccT, E.co-VaccT and good manufacturing procedures (GMP) facilities the company is well positioned to address the unmet needs in the vaccine and immune therapy market.

Click here for the full article.



For more information, please visit www.intravacc.nl .

Contact info

Intravacc B.V.

Dr. Jan Groen, CEO

P: +31 30 7920 454

Sander Hagemans, Media relations

P: +31 30 7920 579

E: press.office@intravacc.nl

An infographic accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f2c233c1-52f2-4670-921a-e0e4b097bf59
Basseterre, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The 2023 Taiwan Expo held in St Kitts and Nevis, was organised by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) in collaboration with the Taiwanese Embassy on the island and marked a pivotal moment in the diplomatic history of both nations.

Held in August at the Visitor Centre, Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park in Nevis, the event commemorated the 40th anniversary of official diplomatic relations between Taiwan and St Kitts and Nevis. Through a myriad of exhibitions and cultural experiences, the Expo further solidified the deep-rooted bond between these two countries.

Showcasing Taiwanese Innovation

The Expo featured 26 Taiwanese companies representing diverse industries. Visitors had the privilege of exploring a wide array of cutting-edge products, including high-quality scissors, knives, and sharpeners, health supplements, sealing machines, solar products, house accessories, leisure foods, and state-of-the-art ICT products such as smartphones, laptops, VR devices, dashcams, and LED smart projectors. Notably, all the ICT products exhibited were recipients of the prestigious Taiwan Excellence Awards, underscoring their innovation and superior quality.

Immersive Cultural Experience

Beyond trade and technology, the Expo offered an immersive journey into Taiwanese culture. Attendees savoured the world-renowned Taiwanese bubble tea and other delightful beverages, tantalising their taste buds with authentic flavours. The cultural experience extended to captivating VR demonstrations and Taiwanese night market games, including balloon darts, pinball, and ring toss. The Expo also treated movie enthusiasts to three acclaimed Taiwanese films, adding a cinematic touch to the cultural immersion.

Local Participation and Youth Involvement

In a bid to foster inclusive bilateral cooperation, the Taiwan Expo extended invitations to local businesses, enabling them to showcase their products alongside Taiwanese exhibitors. Additionally, students from the local youth volunteer programme played a vital role in organising Expo activities, promoting knowledge exchange, and strengthening the ties between the two societies. This collaborative effort underscored the depth of the friendship between Taiwan and St Kitts and Nevis, emphasising the importance of community engagement.

Trade Opportunities and Economic Prosperity

The Taiwan Expo served as a powerful platform to underscore significant trade opportunities between St Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan. In 2022, bilateral trade between the two nations reached an impressive US$1.56 million. Key Taiwanese exports to St Kitts and Nevis encompassed electrical machinery and equipment, sound recorders, reproducers, as well as articles of iron or steel. The Expo, therefore, functioned as a gateway for entrepreneurs and business leaders to explore and leverage these burgeoning trade prospects, paving the way for enduring business partnerships.

A Vision of Mutual Growth

The 2023 Taiwan Expo in St Kitts and Nevis celebrated both diplomatic ties and trade opportunities, aligning with the shared vision of fostering lasting relationships for mutual growth and prosperity. This exceptional occasion not only showcased the best of Taiwanese products and culture but also opened doors to promising trade prospects.

As both nations look ahead, they remain committed to deepening their ties, nurturing their friendship, and exploring new avenues for collaboration. The Taiwan Expo was a testament to the enduring partnership between St Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan, setting the stage for a future marked by shared success and prosperity.

St Kitts and Nevis to host the Commemorative Stamp Competition

To continue the celebrations of commemorating four decades of robust friendship and cooperation between St Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan, a momentous event is set to unfoldthe "Commemorative Stamp Competition."

This competition not only underscores the remarkable rapport shared between the Federation and Taiwan but also invites participants to visually capture the essence of this enduring partnership. In this article, we will delve into the details of this competition, including its guidelines and prizes. Furthermore, we will explore the rich history and multifaceted relations between St Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan.

Commemorative Stamp Competition: A Glimpse

Taiwan in St Kitts and Nevis is all geared up to host the "Commemorative Stamp Competition," a momentous event celebrating 40 years of friendship. This competition aims to crystallise the profound bonds and friendly collaboration that have characterized the relationship between these two nations over the past four decades.

Guidelines for Participation

Participants in the competition are tasked with submitting high-resolution photographs along with compelling captions that poignantly illustrate the close ties and friendly cooperation between St Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan. These captivating visual representations will be evaluated by a discerning audience.

Online Voting and Results

The competition will feature an engaging online voting mechanism, scheduled to run from September 15 to September 30, 2023. The results of this exciting competition will be unveiled on October 9, 2023, marking a significant milestone in the celebration of this enduring friendship.

Submission Details

To partake in this prestigious competition, contestants must submit their iconic photographs and captions via email to SKNTW40@gmail.com before midnight on September 14, 2023.

Utilisation of Submitted Images

By participating in the competition, contestants are granted authorisation for the non-commercial use of their submitted images by the Taiwanese Embassy in St Kitts and Nevis.

Prizes for the Winners

Taiwan in St Kitts and Nevis has also revealed the enticing prizes for the competition winners:

First Place: The first-place winner will be bestowed with EC$1,000 along with a VIVE Focus 3 VR Headset, valued at US$1,096.

Second Place: The second-place victor will receive EC$800 and an Acer Swift X laptop or notebook, with a market value of US$896.

Third Place: The third-place achiever will be presented with EC$700 and an ASUS Vivobook 13 sale OLED, valued at US$656.

Fourth Place: The fourth-place honouree will be granted EC$600 and an ASUS Zembeam S2 LED wireless projector, valued at US$500.

Additionally, individuals securing positions beyond the top four will receive EC$300 along with a special souvenir. Furthermore, the winning photographs from the first, second, and third place will be considered for use in commemorative stamps celebrating the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between St Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan. These images will also grace the pages of the 2024 calendar produced by the Taiwanese Embassy.

Relations Between St Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan: A Historical Perspective

For four decades, the government and citizens of St Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan have forged a remarkable bond, marked by collaborations and expertise exchange in numerous areas of mutual interest. This enduring diplomatic relationship has manifested itself in their partnership in various sectors, including:

Renewable Energy: Taiwan has been instrumental in launching and supporting renewable energy projects in St Kitts and Nevis. These initiatives aim to harness clean energy sources, reducing the carbon footprint and bolstering sustainability efforts.

Health: Collaborative efforts in healthcare have resulted in improved facilities and access to healthcare services in St Kitts and Nevis. Such partnerships have been vital in addressing public health challenges and bolstering the healthcare infrastructure.

Training and Education: Taiwan has extended its hand in providing educational opportunities to remote communities in St Kitts and Nevis. Projects like Let's Recycle and Taiwan Expo 2023 are prime examples of initiatives aimed at enhancing educational access and fostering technological advancements.

People Empowerment: Through various programmes and projects, Taiwan has played a pivotal role in empowering the people of St Kitts and Nevis, fostering entrepreneurship, and promoting economic growth.

Diplomacy: The diplomatic ties between these two nations have been characterised by mutual respect and cooperation on global issues. This has solidified their relationship on the international stage.

Climate Change: St Kitts and Nevis, being vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, has received support from Taiwan in mitigating these effects. Collaborative efforts have been made to address environmental challenges and ensure a sustainable future.

Cultural Exchange: Cultural exchanges have enriched the social fabric of both nations, fostering a deeper understanding of each other's heritage and traditions.

Acknowledgement and Gratitude

The depth of friendship between Taiwan and St Kitts and Nevis has been reaffirmed time and again. Prime Minister Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew and Premier of Nevis, Honourable Mark Brantley, have expressed their heartfelt appreciation for Taiwan's unwavering support to the country. Honourable Brantley aptly stated that the world needs friends like Taiwan, emphasising the profound impact of this enduring partnership.

This celebration not only honours their rich history but also underscores the bright future that lies ahead for these steadfast allies.
London, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, the seventh edition of the CBI Index launched, providing captivating insights into the worlds top investment migration programmes in 2023.

From inception, the CBI Index, published in partnership with the Financial Times Private Wealth Magazine has been comprehensively ranking operational Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programmes for almost a decade  making it the ultimate cross-jurisdictional investment tool for global investors. The CBI Index is a trusted source both for those who wish to compare CBI programmes as a whole, and for those who wish to compare specific aspects of each programme.

The Index has evolved to become more than just a ranking tool, over the years it has established itself as a trusted voice in the industry, dissecting and gleaning important insights and trends that drive the investment migration sector. This year is no different, the industry has seen the biggest shake-up since the pandemic and investors require a legitimate sounding board with which to base their investment decisions.

The CBI Index remains as one of the most important planning tools for global investors looking to include citizenship by investment products in their portfolios. It is well known that the CBI industry is a fragmented one, with different countries managing their own unique programmes, each with varying benefits, requirements, and regulations. Consequently, it can be challenging for investors to evaluate the relative merits of each programme. The purpose of the CBI Index, therefore, is to bring value to the CBI industry by providing a data-driven and practical tool for appraising programmes and facilitating the decision-making process for individuals considering them, says James McKay, creator of the CBI Index and independent research consultant with expertise in global trend analyses.

The CBI Index assesses the performance and appeal of CBI programmes across a diverse range of indicators and measures by isolating factors  or pillars  that measure programme features and the desirability of different jurisdictions. The pillars have been chosen for their relevance and comprehensiveness of measurement, and include:

Standard of Living Freedom of Movement Minimum Investment Outlay Mandatory Travel or Residence Citizenship Timeline Ease of Processing Due Diligence Family Certainty of Product

The intricate combination of benchmarking, statistical analysis, and comparative investigation is what makes the CBI Index the number one tool for cross-jurisdictional planning for investors looking to set up their businesses, grow their assets and even find a new home for their families in different markets.

Caribbean nations still retain top spots

This year, St Kitts and Nevis took the coveted top spot, beating 11 other nations with active CBI programmes including Antigua & Barbuda, Austria, Cambodia, Dominica, Egypt, Grenada, Jordan, Malta, Saint Lucia, Turkiye and Vanuatu.

The Caribbean nations of St Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Lucia and, Antigua and Barbuda took the top five spots in the 2023 CBI Index, indicating once again that the Caribbean has the most attractive CBI programmes in the world.

Despite global industry-wide challenges, St Kitts and Nevis took first place at 86 per cent and scored top marks in almost all pillars, cementing itself once again as a leader in the industry. Each of the nine pillars is scored out of a maximum of ten points and St Kitts and Nevis got full marks for Mandatory Travel or Residence, Ease of Processing, Due Diligence and Certainty of Product.

Dominica took second place, at 83 per cent and attained full marks for Minimum Investment Outlay, Mandatory Travel or Residence and Ease of Processing.

Grenada and Saint Lucia shared third place 80 per cent, while Antigua and Barbuda took fifth place, at 73 per cent.

Increased global scrutiny requires agile solutions

This year marked one of the most eventful for the investment migration industry, thanks to the pressures from the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union, exercising their clout in requiring CBI nations to prove that their programmes are indeed not providing a gateway for illicit characters.

Political pressure to suspend CBI programmes has caused much anxiety in the industry  threatening the existence of many programmes which are crucial in channelling much needed foreign direct investment to small island nations.

St Kitts and Nevis retained its top position in the due diligence category as it is the country leading the way in strengthening the legislative framework for its Programme, closing all loopholes relating to real estate investment and development projects. The St Kitts and Nevis Programme stands as one of the most regulated in the industry, showcasing the twin-islands seriousness when it comes to the integrity of its offering.

Despite external pressures, it must be noted, Dominica was the first Caribbean nation to implement all Six Principles agreed upon with the United States at the Roundtable held in February 2023. The Six Principles include mandatory interviews for applicants aged 16 years and older and the revocation of passports from citizens who were dishonest in their applications.

Other nations in the Caribbean have followed suit, taking an agile and collaborative approach in responding to the global West.

CBI Index, still the most trusted cross-jurisdictional planning tool

The CBI Index has been published annually for seven years and remains as the most trusted source for global investors looking to expand their portfolios through citizenship by investment.

All 12 CBI programmes are measured according to nine pillars with reliance being placed on official sources and data publications from institutions of the highest international standing, as well as on the specialised input of industry experts, whose contributions and responses were used to obtain and interpret both qualitative and quantitative data used in the construction of the CBI Index.

In the 2023 CBI Index, the Freedom of Movement Pillar measures the relative strength of each countrys citizenship on the basis of three equally weighted factors: the number of destinations to which a countrys passport allows travel without restriction; the number of prime business hubs to which it provides access; and the degree to which a given citizenship provides settlement rights in other nations.

The Standard of Living Pillar is a measure of the level of wealth, comfort, and material goods offered by the 12 CBI jurisdictions under assessment. This pillar is vital to those who yearn to relocate and to secure a prosperous and fulfilling lifestyle as well as for those wanting to take advantage of local business opportunities or seeking additional geographical diversification for their assets.

The Minimum Investment Outlay Pillar measures one of the most practical and foremost considerations of CBI: how much capital is required for the investor to become an eligible applicant for the programme of their choosing.

The Mandatory Travel or Residence Pillar examines the travel or residence conditions imposed on applicants both before and after the granting of citizenship. Often busy with running a business or international travel, global citizens have little time to fulfil minimum stay requirements.

The Citizenship Timeline Pillar looks at the average time taken for citizenship to be secured by the applicant. The time at which application forms and supporting documentation are processed, and

the steps involved in approving an application, vary between programmes. Therefore, a thorough inspection of applicable laws, regulations, and policies was made to determine the official processing times mandated by each jurisdiction.

The Ease of Processing Pillar measures the end-to-end complexity of the CBI application process. In some jurisdictions, the application process can be a labour-intensive and painstaking task that is time-consuming for the applicant; in others, it is streamlined, and the applicant receives clear directives on how to proceed.

The Due Diligence Pillar, one of the most important, focuses on each nations commitment to ensuring that their programme remains transparent and effective at evaluating potential candidates for citizenship. It is, therefore, a measure of each programmes integrity.

The Family Pillar measures the extent to which investors can obtain citizenship for their immediate and extended family. The CBI Index recognises that the rise of increasingly complex family relationships is driving investors to seek programmes that allow for a more diverse range of family members to be included under a primary application. While most CBI programmes provide for the inclusion of spouses and minor children, only a handful of countries do so for adult children and extended family.

The Certainty of Product Pillar encompasses a range of factors that measure a programmes certainty across five different dimensions: longevity, popularity and renown, stability, reputation and adaptability. With the CBI industry currently in a state of flux amid a tightening regulatory landscape, it is more important than ever to provide investors with a means of differentiating a programmes relative robustness.

Attachment
PHOENIX, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TILT Holdings Inc. (TILT or the Company) (NEO: TILT ) (OTCQB: TLLTF ), a global provider of cannabis business solutions that include inhalation technologies, cultivation, manufacturing, processing, brand development and retail, today announced Interim Chief Executive Officer Tim Conder will speak at the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago Sept. 27-28, 2023.



Conder will join Jason Nelson of BeLeaf Medical, Jeffrey Schultz of Foley Hoag, Darren Lampert of GrowGeneration, and moderator Shia Kapos of Politico for a panel titled Building a Successful Cannabis Business While Regulations Catch Up at 3 p.m. CT, Wednesday, Sept. 27. Additionally, TILT will host one-on-one meetings with investors.

To learn more about TILT, please visit www.tiltholdings.com .

About TILT Holdings

TILT helps cannabis businesses build brands. Through a portfolio of companies providing technology, hardware, cultivation and production, TILT services brands and cannabis retailers across 39 states in the U.S., as well as Canada, Israel, South America and the European Union. TILTs core businesses include Jupiter Research LLC , a wholly-owned subsidiary and leader in the vaporization segment focused on hardware design, research, development and manufacturing; and cannabis operations, Commonwealth Alternative Care, Inc. in Massachusetts, Standard Farms LLC in Pennsylvania, and Standard Farms Ohio, LLC in Ohio. TILT is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. For more information, visit www.tiltholdings.com .

Company Contact:

Lynn Ricci, VP of Investor Relations & Corporate Communications

TILT Holdings Inc.

lricci@tiltholdings.com

Investor Relations Contact:

Sean Mansouri, CFA

Elevate IR

TILT@elevate-ir.com

Media Contact:

Alice Moon

Trailblaze on behalf of TILT Holdings

TILT@trailblaze.co
Pune, India, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global big data technology market size was valued at USD 309.43 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 842.17 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 13.6% during the forecast period. Fortune Business Insights provides this information in its research report titled Big Data Technology Market Forecast, 2023-2030.

The expansion can be credited to the rising adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and data analytics globally. The deployment of these technologies with big data helps organizations make complex data accessible while increasing their visualization capabilities.





Request a Sample PDF:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/big-data-technology-market-100144





Key Industry Development:

April 2023- Databricks, a leading software company, unveiled the Databricks Lakehouse for the manufacturing industry. The solution combines data and AI to provide record-breaking performance for any analytic use case.





Key Takeaways

Increased Investments by Organizations in Big Data amid the COVID-19 Pandemic Propelled the Market Growth

Rising Adoption of Big Data and Business Analytics among End-use Industries

By Type Analysis: Big Data Analytics Segment to Lead the Market Share Owing to Growing Trend of Edge Computing

Big Data Technology Market Size in North America was USD 103.56 Billion in 2022

Databricks Launched the Databricks Lakehouse for Manufacturing to Gain Competitive Edge





Discover the Leading Players Featured in the Report:

Companies leading the Big Data Technology Market are IBM Corporation (U.S.), KNIME (Switzerland), Oracle Corporation (U.S.), Alteryx (U.S.), Databricks (U.S.), Tableau (U.S.), Cloudera, Inc. (U.S.), Salesforce.com, Inc. (U.S.), Teradata Corporation (U.S.), MongoDB (U.S.)





Report Scope & Segmentation

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 CAGR 13.6% 2030 Value Projection USD 842.17 Billion Base Year 2022 Big Data Technology Market Size in 2022 USD 309.43 Billion Historical Data for 2019 to 2021 No. of Pages 160 Segments covered Type, End-use and Geography





Browse Complete Report Details:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/big-data-technology-market-100144





Drivers and Restraints:

Market Value to Grow Owing to Surging Adoption of AI, ML, and Data Analytics

One of the major factors presenting lucrative opportunities for market growth is the rising adoption of ML, AI, and data analytics. Business intelligence solutions are deployed in ML tools to find unstructured and structured data. This allows end-users to integrate data analytics and ML with big data technology to gain insights about product quantity and sales to reach the target audience.

However, rising concerns associated with privacy and information security may impede market growth.





Segmentation

By Type

Big Data Storage

Big Data Mining

Big Data Analytics

Big Data Visualization

By End-use Industry

BFSI

Retail

Manufacturing

IT and Telecom

Government

Healthcare

Others (Utility)

By Region

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

South America





Regional Insights:

North America to Dominate the Market Owing to the Growing Presence of Data Centers

North America held a dominant big data technology market share in 2022 and is projected to depict significant growth over the forecast period, owing to the robust presence of data centers in the region. The growing adoption of video streaming services, connected devices, digital payments, and others creates huge chunks of data, increasing the demand for big data technology in the region.

The Asia Pacific market is slated to grow substantially over the forecast period. The regional expansion is driven by the growing adoption of IoT devices and big data technology, such as Apache, Hadoop, and others, across enterprises.





Quick Buy - Big Data Technology Market Research Report:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/100144





Competitive Landscape:

Key Companies Are Prioritizing Product Innovations to Strengthen Their Market Position

Notable industry players are focusing on product innovations to extend their global footprints. They are also investing substantial amounts in R&D activities to bring new products. Additionally, they are forging partnerships, mergers & acquisitions, and collaboration strategies to increase their market hold.





FAQs

How big is the Big Data Technology Market?

Big Data Technology Market size was USD 309.43 billion in 2022.

How fast is the Big Data Technology Market growing?

The Big Data Technology Market will exhibit a CAGR of 13.6% during the forecast period, 2023-2030





Related Reports:

Artificial Intelligence [AI] Market Size, Share & Forecast 2030

Big Data Analytics Market Size, Share, Growth, Trends

Big Data as a Service (BDaaS) Market Size, Share & Forecast 2030

Digital Transformation Market Growth with Size, Share, Trends





About Us:

Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. We tailor innovative solutions for our clients, assisting them to address challenges distinct to their businesses. Our goal is to empower our clients with holistic market intelligence, giving a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

Contact Us:

Fortune Business Insights Pt. Ltd.

US: +1 424 253 0390

UK: +44 2071 939123

APAC: +91 744 740 1245

Email: sales@fortunebusinessinsights.com

Attachment
Pune, India, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global prescription drugs market size was valued at USD 1,090.7 billion in 2022 The market is projected to grow from USD 1,864.2 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.9% during forecast period. Prescription drugs are a wide range of vaccines and therapies used to treat and manage chronic and acute conditions.

Common conditions include cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and rare diseases. In todays clinical environment, proper prescription drugs are essential for improving the clinical outcomes of almost all patients with severe conditions.

Fortune Business Insights mentioned this in a report titled Prescription Drugs Market, 2023-2030.





Request a Sample PDF : https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/sample/prescription-drugs-market-102709





Key Industry Development:

March 2020: Dr. Reddys Laboratories Ltd. introduced the genetic equivalent of Geodon (Ziprasidone Mesylate) injection, a drug used for schizophrenia patients in the U.S.

Key Takeaways :

Deferred Hospital Visits Amid COVID-19 Hampered Prescription Drugs Sales

Increasing Presence of Pipeline Candidates in Various Therapy Areas

Increasing Launch of Generic Equivalents of Key Prescription Drugs to Fuel Product Demand

Increasing Developments of Orphan Drugs Drive Market Growth

High Costs Associated with Certain Prescription Drugs to Limit Market Growth

Strong and Diversified Product Portfolio of Novartis and Pfizer to Help these Companies Retain a Leading Position

List of Key Market Players Profiled in the Report:

Novartis AG (Switzerland)

Pfizer, Inc. (U.S.)

F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd (Switzerland)

Sanofi (France)

Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc (U.S.)

Merck & Co., Inc. (U.S.)

AbbVie, Inc. (U.S.)

GlaxoSmithKline plc. (U.K.)

AstraZeneca (U.K.)

CELGENE CORPORATION (BRISTOL-MYERS SQUIBB COMPANY) (U.S.)





COVID-19 Impact:

Pandemic Impacted Market Growth Negatively Owing to Decrease in the Number of Patients

Due to the pandemic, the market growth declined in 2020. In 2020, several regions worldwide experienced difficulties in accessing healthcare and treatment due to increase in country restrictions or lockdowns. The pandemic also led to a decrease in the number of patients visiting hospitals and decrease in the spreading of prescription drugs by healthcare professionals. This led to moderately lower demand and acceptance of prescription drugs, hindering market growth during the pandemic.





Click here to get the short-term and long-term impact of COVID-19 on this market.

Please visit: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/prescription-drugs-market-102709





Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 CAGR 8.9% 2030 Value Projection USD 1864.2 Billion Base Year 2022 Prescription Drugs Market Size in 2022 USD 1090.7 Billion Historical Data for 2019 to 2021 No. of Pages 140 Segments covered Type, Therapy and Product Channel





Drivers & Restraints:

Rising Launch of Generic Equivalents of Prominent Drugs to Drive the Market Growth

The rising emergence of generic equivalents of various important pharmaceuticals in developed countries, such as the U.S., is one of the primary factors fueling the market for prescription drugs globally. Generic alternatives are frequently used just as effectively as their brand-name counterparts and can constantly be used by patients for a fraction of the cost.

Expensive treatments for some diseases and prescription drugs to restrict the market growth.

Segments:

Increasing Number of Drugs in Healthcare to Drive the Other Prescription Drugs Segment

On the basis of product type, the market is divided into orphan, generics, and other prescription drugs. The other prescription drugs segment led the market growth in 2022. Several new drugs were launched under categories, such as biologics, to drive the segments growth.

Growing Occurrence of Cancer to Support Dominance of the Oncology Segment

Based on therapy, the market is divided into immunosuppressants, oncology, vaccines, central nervous system, and others. The oncology segment is estimated to lead the therapy segment, owing to the rising occurrence of cancer and high costs linked with the treatment of various forms of cancer.





Quick Buy - Prescription Drugs Market Research Report:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/102709





Hospital Pharmacies Segment to Drive the Market Owing to the Increase in the Treatment of Critical Diseases

According to distribution channel, the market is divided into hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies & drug stores, and online pharmacies. The factor responsible for the dominance of the hospital pharmacies segment is that under-prescription drugs can only be prescribed under the guidance of trained medical professionals.

Report Coverage:

The report offers:

 Major growth drivers, restraining factors, opportunities, and potential challenges for the market.

 Comprehensive insights into regional developments.

 List of major industry players.

 Key strategies adopted by the market players.

 Recent industry developments include product launches, partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions.





Regional Insights:

North America Dominated the Market Share Owing to the High Occurrence of Several Chronic Conditions

In 2022, the North America dominated the market in 2022. Some of the key reasons for North Americas dominance in the global market include the growing need for efficient and high-tech products in the region, particularly due to the rising occurrence of several chronic conditions. These factors, combined with high healthcare spending, robust Research & Development (R&D) of drugs in the region, and the presence of leading companies involved in the production of generic equivalent of key drugs, contribute to North America's dominant share in the global market.

Europe is the second largest region in the market globally. The dominance of the region is due to the growing demand for prescription products fostering the market share.





Competitive Landscape:

Novartis and Pfizer to Dominate the Market Owing to their Strong Presence

The market is driven by the presence of numerous significant competitors in the market. Moreover, among all the major market participants, Pfizer and Novartis dominated the prescription drugs market share due to their market presence in oncology and vaccines, which are the primary drivers of these markets. Sanofi, Novartis AG, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., and Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc. are some of the top market participants, which are anticipated to boost the prescription drugs market growth during the projected period.





Ask for Customization of this Report:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/ask-for-customization/prescription-drugs-market-102709





Table Of Contents :

Introduction Research Scope Market Segmentation Research Methodology Definitions and Assumptions

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Restraints Market Opportunities

Key Insights Prevalence of Key Diseases - by Key Countries/ Region 2022 Pipeline Analysis, Key Players Key Industry Developments: Mergers, Acquisitions, Etc. Regulatory Scenario - by Key Regions New Product Launches, Key Players Impact of COVID-19 on the Market

Global Prescription Drugs Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030 Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Product Type Generics Orphan Other Prescription Drugs Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Therapy Oncology Anti-diabetics Vaccines Sensory Organs Immunosuppressants Anticoagulants Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Distribution Channel Hospital Pharmacies Retail Pharmacies & Drug Stores Online Pharmacies Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa

North America Prescription Drugs Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030 Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Product Type Generics Orphan Other Prescription Drugs Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Therapy Oncology Anti-diabetics Vaccines Sensory Organs Immunosuppressants Anticoagulants Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Distribution Channel Hospital Pharmacies Retail Pharmacies & Drug Stores Online Pharmacies Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Country U.S. Canada

Europe Prescription Drugs Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030 Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Product Type Generics Orphan Other Prescription Drugs Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Therapy Oncology Anti-diabetics Vaccines Sensory Organs Immunosuppressants Anticoagulants Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Distribution Channel Hospital Pharmacies Retail Pharmacies & Drug Stores Online Pharmacies Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Country/ sub-region U.K. Germany France Spain Italy Scandinavia Rest of Europe



Toc Continue..





What is the market for prescription drugs?

Global prescription drugs market size was valued at USD 1,090.7 billion in 2022 The market is projected to grow from USD 1,864.2 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.9% during forecast period.

What are the key factors driving the prescription drugs market growth?

The anticipated introduction of innovative prescription drugs in the market due to the increased prevalence of chronic and serious diseases, coupled with significant unmet clinical needs, is fueling the product demand.





Related Reports:

Digital Radiography Market Size, Share, Growth and Analysis Report

Infusion Pump Market Size, Share & COVID-19 Impact Analysis

Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) Market Size, Share, Growth Report





About Us:

Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. We tailor innovative solutions for our clients, assisting them to address challenges distinct to their businesses. Our goal is to empower our clients with holistic market intelligence, giving a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

Contact Us:

Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd.

US: +1 424 253 0390

UK: +44 2071 939123

APAC: +91 744 740 1245

Email: sales@fortunebusinessinsights.com

Attachment
DETROIT, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- After the success of the 2022 edition, the Italian Consulate in Detroit has relaunched its presence at the 'Detroit Month of Design' through the 'LoveItDetroit' project, with an installation dedicated to sustainability, open to the public until Sept. 30, at 1001 Woodward Avenue.



In particular, the installation aims to underline how Italian companies have taken the path of sustainability, integrating this approach with the essence of Made in Italy. On the occasion of the opening day of the Detroit Auto Show 2023, the exhibition hosted a panel of experts and stakeholders from the sector on Wednesday, to discuss the links between the US motoring capital and Italy, in particular Turin, and the energy transition in the automotive sector.

The ties between Detroit and Italy date back to 1899, the year of the first Auto Show, the same year in which Italy sent its first consul to this city, recalled the Italian ambassador to the USA, Mariangela Zappia. We are currently the only European country that has a consulate in Detroit and this says a lot about the relations between Detroit and Italy and, of course, between Detroit and Turin, the automotive capital of Italy, Zappia said. Italy is at the forefront of innovation in the automotive sector, remarked the ambassador, recalling the "Italian champions" present at the 2023 Auto Show, in particular in the electric cars sector. Tonight we celebrate sustainable mobility, after having celebrated the Space sector and Italian fashion.

We wanted to use sustainability as an underlying theme, because it crosses various sectors, said the Italian consul in Detroit, Allegra Baistrocchi, promoter of 'LoveItDetroit'. Italy is at the forefront of the fight against climate change and is fighting for this internationally, so why not use design as a vehicle for this issue?," added the consul. Kerry Duggan, sustainability expert and CEO of SustainabiliD, an organization she founded in 2017, after having held various consultancy roles in the Obama-Biden Administration, also spoke about the links between Detroit and Italy. Clearly we both have in common that we create things. And not only do we produce things, we are innovative, we design, we are both known for design. Detroit is a UNESCO city of design. And obviously I don't need to say anything about Italy and the its design heritage, Duggan said, after moderating the expert panel.

Among the speakers of the evening, also Marco Bruzzano, senior vice president of regulatory affairs of DTE, the Detroit energy company. Companies like DTE are focused on reaching net zero emissions as quickly as possible. We just announced that we will retire all of our coal plants by 2032. And we are on track to reduce our emissions by 85% by 2032. The innovation ecosystem that we have in Detroit, with the automotive companies, the utilities, the investments that are being made from all over the world make this an incredible moment, Bruzzano said, underlining that in this moment, when the transition will impact so many people, from businesses to residents, it's so important to listen to all stakeholders, reach out and understand everyone's concerns, make sure no one is left behind as we navigate this transition.

For more information:

Press Office LaPresse - ufficio.stampa@lapresse.it

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3480c1f4-56d1-4e1f-9147-8c70107833e1
DETROIT, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (LaPresse) Italy has been a main protagonist on the opening day of the Detroit Auto Show 2023. "Italy is synonymous with automotive", underlined the Italian consul in Detroit, Allegra Baistrocchi, who organized the Italian presence as part of the Mobility Global Forum, a two-day symposium attended by managers and experts in the sector to discuss changes in the world of mobility and transport.



The long ties between Detroit and Italy, recalled the ambassador to the United States, Mariangela Zappia, date back to 1899, the year of the first edition of the Auto Show. That same year, Italy sent its first consular agent to Detroit. "It is no coincidence that Turin and Detroit are sister cities", said Zappia, recalling the "numerous Italian companies present in the city". And certainly, "the merger between Fiat and Chrysler", which then helped give life to Stellantis, one of Detroit's 'Big Three'. "Innovation, performance and sustainability are the strengths of Italian automotive production", with a sector that has over 5,500 companies and over 250 thousand employees, and is one of the flags of the entire Italian economy, the fifth manufacturing country in the world, Zappia said.

One of the 'key speakers' of the Mobility Global Forum, the CEO and managing director of Pininfarina, Silvio Angori, spoke about design, underlining the need to maintain "independent design studios", for the benefit of existing car manufacturers and future ones, to imagine products that are not only "beautiful", but also sustainable. "A beautiful design is an attribute that a product must necessarily have. A product that is beautiful will sell. But it must also be sustainable" and to do this, Angori explained, the product must be "simple". A quality from which we have "distanced ourselves a little" and which "we must recover".

Stefano dePonti, CEO of Dallara USA, another flagship of the Italian industry, spoke about the contribution that the world of racing can make to the sustainability of the 'car product'. In the United States we design and produce all the chassis for the Indy 500 and the IndyCar series, he recalled. "Racing is a great testing ground", also in terms of the design and development of "new materials with a view to sustainability". For this reason, "there is a continuous exchange of information between the automotive world and the racing world," dePonti said.

For more information:

Press Office LaPresse - ufficio.stampa@lapresse.it

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1a90599a-297f-4997-9f7e-893089675508
Dublin, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Electric Commercial Vehicle Market by Propulsion (BEVs & FCEVs), Vehicle Type (Pickups, Medium and Heavy-Duty Trucks & Vans), Range, Battery Type, Power Output, Battery Capacity, Component, End User, Body Construction and Region - Global Forecast to 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global electric commercial vehicle market size is projected to grow from 519.4 thousand units in 2023 to 2,155.1 thousand units by 2030, at a CAGR of 22.5%. Governments support of EVs through incentives and schemes for using electric vehicles and collaborating with top automobile manufacturers will increase EV adoption. Electric commercial vehicles operate at a lower cost than ICE commercial vehicles. Growing research of EV batteries and EV charging systems will drive the electric commercial vehicle market. Electric vehicle charging stations, battery swapping stations, and fleet stations are required to be installed globally for growing the demand for electric commercial vehicles.

Less Than 150 Miles is expected to be the largest market in the forecast period.

Low performance and affordable electric commercial vehicles usually have a range of less than 150 miles. Several OEMs offer electric vans with low-cost batteries with a restricted range of 100-150 miles. OEMs have been providing trucks and vans for this segment over the years. For instance, in 2023, Rizon, a brand of Daimler, launched the e18L, e16L, and e16M medium duty electric trucks with a range of 110-160 miles. Furthermore, Bollinger Motors launched a medium duty all-electric truck Bollinger B4 in September 2022, which is an all-wheel-drive aluminum body vehicle. It has a range of 100 - 200 miles. Municipalities use low range electric vans and trucks for a variety of services, including waste collection, street sweeping, and maintenance tasks. Electric vehicles are an excellent choice for these tasks because they produce no emissions and are much quieter than gas or diesel-powered vehicles. In 2021, Irizar Group received an order for 10 electric trucks which will be used for refuse services.

NMC will be the largest segment in the forecast period by battery type.

Nickel-manganese-cobalt oxide batteries (NMC) are composed of several materials with different properties, high density, and efficiency. These batteries are ideal for use in electric commercial vehicles as they have a low self-heating rate while in operation. The chemical composition of the NMC batteries comprises lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide as the cathode and graphite as the anode. The NMC batteries are very expensive and toxic due to the presence of cobalt. OEMs have now started to shift towards the adoption of higher content of nickel in cathodes. Compared to cobalt, nickel cells have a lower cost and higher life cycle. NMC batteries are preferable for a longer range and in colder climate conditions in Europe and North America. The NMC batteries are generally used because cobalt and nickel cells have a lower cost, higher life cycle, more stability, and higher energy density. NMC batteries are preferable for long-range and colder climate conditions in Europe and North America. NMC batteries offer high-density packs within the same dimension and same weight, due to which their demand is expected to significantly grow in upcoming years. In 2021, BHP announced the signing of a nickel supply agreement with Tesla, Inc. In addition to the supply agreement, BHP and Tesla Inc will collaborate on ways to make the battery supply chain more sustainable. In January 2022, GODI (India) announced the manufacturing of the first batch of commercial-grade NMC batteries. These factors are expected to fuel the growth of NMC batteries in electric commercial vehicles.

Asia Pacific shows high growth potential for the electric commercial vehicle market.

Asia Pacific is home to many OEMs, such as Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (India), BYD (China), King Long (China), Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan), and Nissan Motor Corporation (Japan). The Asia Pacific market is dominated by China, which has large sales volumes for electric commercial vehicles. Japan also plays a vital role in automotive technology in the Asia Pacific. With advancements in technologies, the Japanese electric commercial vehicle market is expected to grow. In July 2022, Toyota Motor Corporation announced that work with Allied Motors to develop fuel cell electric vans. The rising demand of customers for faster deliveries is the key factor driving the growth of the last-mile delivery market in the Asia Pacific. Governments of these countries have encouraged installing EV charging stations, formulated emission norms, and set deadlines for shifting to full or hybrid EVs from ICE vehicles. India is also working on increasing its electric vans and trucks in the market. The new vehicle scrappage policy in which old vehicles can be scrapped off for changing to low emission zones and other upcoming policies will help the country become a lucrative market for electric commercial vehicles in the coming years.

Last Mile Delivery is expected to be the largest in the market in the forecast period.

The rise of e-commerce has significantly increased the demand for last-mile delivery services, leading to various developments in the commercial vehicle sector. Companies are adding electric commercial vehicles, such as electric vans, electric trucks, and pickup trucks, to their fleets to reduce expenses and reduce vehicle emissions. In May 2022, Terrago (India) used a fleet of 65 Mahindra Treo Zor cargo vehicles for delivery purposes in India. The electric commercial market will grow due to the increasing investments by governments across the globe.

Competitive landscape

The electric commercial vehicle market is dominated by established players such as BYD (China), Mercedes Benz Group AG (Germany), AB Volvo (Sweden), Tesla, Inc (US), and PACCAR Inc (US). The market ranking has been derived by considering ECV sales and a certain percentage of segmental revenue for each of the companies mentioned above. These companies also offer extensive products and solutions for the automotive industry. These companies have strong distribution networks at the global level, and they invest heavily in R&D to develop new products.

Premium Insights

Increased Ownership of Fuel-Efficient Vehicles to Drive Demand for Electric Commercial Vehicles

Full-Size to Secure Leading Market Position Between 2023 and 2030

Vans to Surpass Other Segments During Forecast Period

Bevs to Record Highest CAGR by 2030

Nmc Batteries to Acquire Maximum Shares from 2023 to 2030

60-120 Kwh to be Largest Segment by 2030

Less Than 100 Kw to Exceed Other Segments During Forecast Period

Less Than 150 Miles to Hold Majority Shares Between 2023 and 2030

Last-Mile Delivery to be Largest End-Use Application During Forecast Period

Asia-Pacific to Account for Largest Market Share in 2023

Market Dynamics

Drivers

Reduced Cost of EV Batteries

Hike in Price of Fossil Fuels

Increased Preference for Emission-Free Commercial Vehicles in Logistics Industry

Government Support for Electric Commercial Vehicles

Restraints

High Initial Investment in Electric Commercial Vehicle Production

Concerns Associated with Battery Safety

Lack of Robust Charging Infrastructure

Low Vehicle Range

Opportunities

New Revenue Pockets in North America and Northern Europe

Development of Wireless Ev Charging Technology for On-The-Go Charging

Use of Electric Vehicles for Fleets and Commercial Applications

Challenges

Limited Battery Capacity

Low Availability of Lithium for Ev Batteries

Insufficient Grid Infrastructure Globally

Case Study Analysis

User Experience of Battery-Electric Trucks in Norway

Electric Vehicle Fleets for Public Sector in Vermont

Company Profiles

Key Players

Mercedes-Benz Group Ag

BYD

Ab Volvo

Tesla, Inc

Paccar Inc

Renault

Scania Ab

Ford Motor Company

Yutong

Dongfeng Motor Corporation

Proterra

Vdl Groep

Rivian

Other Players

Tata Motors Limited

Workhorse Group

Nikola Corporation

Ashok Leyland

Isuzu Motors Ltd.

Irizar Group

Iveco

Bollinger Motors

Xos Trucks Inc

Man Se

Golden Dragon

Zenith Motors

Arrival

Lordstown Motors



Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 287 Forecast Period 2023 - 2030 Estimated Market Value in 2023 519.4 Thousand Units Forecasted Market Value by 2030 2155.1 Thousand Units Compound Annual Growth Rate 22.5%

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/m0czuu

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Attachment
Dubai, UAE, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As per the latest report published by Extrapolate, the Global Diesel Market size is anticipated to reach USD 243.99 billion by 2030 from USD 178.01 billion in 2022, exhibiting around 4.02% CAGR through the forecast period of 2023-2030. The diesel engine is more efficient and emits fewer greenhouse gasses compared to gasoline engines. Due to its recent price stability, diesel has become a preferable fuel choice for motorists aiming to reduce fuel expenses, which is boosting market growth.

Diesel engines, which are renowned for their tremendous power production, are perfect for heavy-duty operations such as operating trucks and construction equipment. Additionally, in several non-American nations, diesel is considered a more cost-effective option as it is exempt from federal excise taxes. It serves as a budget-friendly option for people looking to reduce fuel costs.

Get Sample Copy of Report @ https://www.extrapolate.com/sample/energy-and-power/diesel-market/69659

Competitive Landscape

Leading companies in the global diesel market are estimated to focus on collaborations as their key strategy to expand their global reach. For instance, Reliance Industries Limited and BP Plc inked a deal in August 2019 to sell petrol, diesel, and other retail fuels. According to reports, Reliance Industries Limited holds a 51% stake in the joint venture, leaving BP with a 49% stake.

Key Players Operating in Global Diesel Market are:

Chevron Corporation

BP plc.

ConocoPhillips Company

Cenovus Energy Inc.

Saudi Arabian Oil Co.

Exxon Mobil Corporation

Neste

Shell plc

LUKOIL

Eni S.p.A.

McDermott.

PT Pertamina(Persero)

Mangalore Refinery & Petrochemicals Ltd

For More Information, Enquire @ https://www.extrapolate.com/enquire/energy-and-power/diesel-market/69659

Market Segmentation:

By Application

Marine

Railway

Automotive

Others

Rising International Trade Between Developing Nations to Fuel Demand in Marine Sector

On the basis of application, the marine segment accounted for the largest share of the global diesel market and is expected to continue to lead the market through the estimated period. The segments growth is primarily attributable to the increasing international trade between various developing countries. Furthermore, surging demand for economically viable, reliable, fuel-efficient, and highly durable products is propelling segmental expansion.

Additionally, the growing focus on system development within the shipping sector, along with a considerable shift towards diesel engines, is expected to bolster segment expansion during the forecast period.

By Type

1 Diesel Fuel

2 Diesel Fuel

Increasing Global Environmental Pollution to Fuel Demand for 2 Diesel Fuels

In terms of type, the 2 diesel fuel segment is expected to dominate the global diesel market in the upcoming years. The increasing global environmental pollution is driving the adoption of low-sulfur diesel fuels, which is anticipated to support the segments growth. Moreover, the demand for 2 diesel fuel in the Asia Pacific is expected to rise as a result of the surging sales in the automotive sector and the growing use of crude oil and refined products in developing nations such as India and China.

Purchase This Comprehensive Research Report for Valuable Market Insights @ https://www.extrapolate.com/complete-checkout-buyal/69659

Enhanced Fuel Efficiency Across Industries Spurs Market Growth

The maritime, construction, healthcare, mining, telecommunications, forestry, and agricultural industries are just a few of the global sectors that use diesel engines widely due to their superior operational performance. They are also becoming more popular in heavy-duty and commercial vehicles due to their higher fuel efficiency when compared to gasoline engines. This plays a pivotal role in driving market expansion and the overall prosperity of the automotive industry. Furthermore, modern diesel engines boast lower maintenance costs and reduced noise levels, addressing concerns that were prevalent in earlier generations.

Surging Carbon Emissions and Noisy Fuel Engines to Restrain Market Expansion

The increase in noise pollution attributes globally is likely to hamper the expansion of the fuel industry. Diesel engines, being heavier and having a more intricate viscosity compared to petrol engines, result in coarser and less stable diesel fuel. Consequently, these factors are expected to impede the growth of the diesel fuel market.

Consumer preferences are shifting towards renewable energy sources and electric automobiles due to growing environmental concerns, especially carbon monoxide emissions. The industry's expansion is predicted to be hampered by the rising demand for alternative fuel sources.

Browse Complete Report @ https://www.extrapolate.com/energy-and-power/diesel-market/69659

North America to Lead the Market, Fueled by High Military Spending

North America is the largest market for diesel and is anticipated to maintain its dominant position in the years to come. This is partly due to the significant military expenditure in the region, particularly by the U.S. Army. The expansion of the U.S. Army's vehicle capacity is a major driver for the increasing number of military vehicles in the region. This is projected to spur the demand for diesel fuel in North America, especially given the region's steadily rising sales of other vehicles.

For instance, the Northeastern region of North America has experienced a 33% surge in diesel prices for November 2022 deliveries, leading to increased demand. Consequently, there have been calls for the federal government to bolster the diesel supply.

Part II: Biodiesel Market

As per the latest report published by Extrapolate, the Global Biodiesel Market size is estimated to reach USD 87.36 billion by 2032 from USD 36.18 billion in 2022, recording a healthy CAGR of 9.22% over 2023-2032. The market growth is likely to be driven by government initiatives and tax breaks intended to promote the use of biodiesel. Technological advancements aimed at enhancing performance characteristics are set to contribute to the industrys expansion.

A clean-burning substitute for diesel, biodiesel is manufactured from a range of agricultural feedstock, recycled cooking oil, and animal fats. It is compatible with diesel engines without requiring any modifications. Market expansion is anticipated to be fueled by the rising demand for biodiesel to replace traditional fossil fuels in power generation and automotive applications.

Get Sample Copy of Report @ https://www.extrapolate.com/sample/energy-and-power/biodiesel-market/87389

Competitive Landscape

Prominent players operating in the global biodiesel market are concentrating on investments with the aim of expanding their business. For instance, ExxonMobil signed an agreement in January 2022 to acquire 49.9% of Biojet AS, a start-up firm in the Norwegian biofuels sector that seeks to produce low-emissions ethanol and biofuel components using waste from wood-based building construction and forestry.

Leading companies in the global biodiesel market include:

Ag Processing Inc

Wilmar International Ltd

RB FUELS

FutureFuel Corporation

Cargill

Manuelita

Ecodiesel Colombia S.A.

ADM

Munzer Bioindustrie GmbH

Neste

Key Industry Insights:

On the basis of feedstock, the palm segment is expected to generate the highest revenue

Based on application, the fuel segment is likely to lead the market in the upcoming years

In terms of region, Europe is projected to be the largest market

For More Information, Enquire @ https://www.extrapolate.com/enquire/energy-and-power/biodiesel-market/87389

Market Segmentation

By Feedstock

Soybean

Rapeseed

Palm

Poultry

Tallow

White Grease

Others

Extensive Use of Palm Oil for Biodiesel Production to Spur Demand

On the basis of feedstock, the palm segment is anticipated to generate the highest share of the global biodiesel market in the upcoming years owing to its growing use in several major regions. Countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, France, Germany, and Colombia use palm oil extensively as a feedstock for biodiesel production. Thailand and Indonesia, being significant palm oil producers responsible for over 80% of the total output, allocate a considerable share for biofuel production. Conversely, Europe depends on importing feedstock from these Asian nations, which is fostering the segment outlook.

Purchase This Comprehensive Research Report for Valuable Market Insights @ https://www.extrapolate.com/complete-checkout-buyal/87389

By Application

Power Generator

Fuel

Others

Rising Global Demand for Fuel to Augment Biodiesel Market Revenue

Based on application, the fuel segment is projected to lead the global biodiesel market through the projection period, driven by its role as a substitute for crude oil in commercial vehicles. The demand for biodiesel, which emits fewer Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) compared to traditional fuels such as diesel, is set to rise. Given its biodegradable nature, lack of sulfur and aromatics, and non-toxic properties, biodiesel finds wide-ranging applications in the maritime sector, and its growth is projected to maintain a rapid CAGR in the near future.

Shift Towards Biodegradable Biofuels to Drive Market Growth

An eco-friendly and sustainable fuel alternative called biodiesel is essential in reducing climate change concerns. It's a viable alternative as it significantly lowers air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Comparing biodiesel to traditional fossil fuels, carbon-based pollutants can be reduced by up to 50%. The shift to renewable and biodegradable biofuels as a substitute for fossil fuels, which are known for having significant greenhouse gas emissions, is a major factor driving product demand in developing countries.

Browse Complete Report @ https://www.extrapolate.com/energy-and-power/biodiesel-market/87389

High Feedstock Costs for Biodiesel Production to Pose a Challenge

The demand for biodiesel and eco-friendly fuels is spurred by the agricultural commodities market, a pivotal sector in the transportation industry. Common biodiesel raw materials include vegetable oils including soybean, canola, and palm oils. However, these materials account for between 80 and 85 percent of the cost of producing biodiesel, which is a significant challenge. The fluctuation in feedstock prices poses a significant risk to biodiesel producers, as it jeopardizes their financial sustainability. Rising feedstock prices lead to higher biodiesel costs, ultimately impacting profitability.

Europe to Dominate Market Due to Government Initiatives to Promote Use of Bio-based Sources

Europe has been the largest biodiesel market and is projected to maintain its leading position through the forthcoming period. This growth is mainly attributed to the region's early recognition of biodiesel benefits and government initiatives to promote the shift from carbon-emitting to bio-based sources. A key factor impelling biodiesel demand in Europe is Germany, the leading raw material producer among European nations.

Furthermore, the region is poised to observe sizable growth as a result of the anticipated rise in consumption driven by the affordability of raw materials. Moreover, surging environmental concerns and the demand for sustainable energy alternatives are estimated to further support regional market growth.

Table of Content

Chapter 1. Executive Summary

Chapter 2. Research Methodology

2.1. Research Approach

2.2. Scope, definition, and assumptions

2.3. Data sources

2.3.1. Secondary sources

2.3.1.1. Preliminary data mining

2.3.2. Primary sources

2.3.2.1. Statistical Model

2.3.2.2. Data Triangulation

2.3.2.3. Research Objective

Chapter 3. Market Outlook

3.1. Introduction

3.2. Key trends

3.2.1. Increasing Demand for Eco-Friendly and GHG (Green House Gas) Reduction is a New Trend in the Market

3.3. Market drivers

3.3.1. Low Emission Then Other Product is Propelling the Market

3.4. Market restraints

3.4.1. Low Filtration in Colder Areas is Restraining the Market Growth

3.5. Market opportunities

3.5.1. High Cost of Feedstock to Produce Biodiesel is a Challenge for the Market

3.6. Market Challenges

3.6.1. High Cost of Feedstock to Produce Biodiesel is a Challenge for the Market

3.7. Porters Five Forces Analysis

3.7.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers

3.7.2. Bargaining Power of Buyers

3.7.3. Threat of New Entrant

3.7.4. Threat of Substitutes

3.7.5. High Competitive Rivalry

3.8. Value chain analysis

Chapter 4. COVID-19 Impact on Biodiesel Market

Chapter 5. Global Biodiesel Market Overview, By Feedstock, 2018 - 2032 (USD Million)

Chapter 6. Global Biodiesel Market Overview, By Application, 2018 - 2032 (USD Million)

Chapter 7. Global Biodiesel Market Overview, By Geography, 2018 - 2032 (USD Million)

...

Chapter 13. Competitive Landscape

13.1. Competitive environment

13.2. Strategic framework

13.2.1. Partnership/agreement

13.2.2. Expansion

13.2.3. Mergers & Acquisitions

13.2.4. Recent development

Chapter 14. Key Vendor Analysis

Chapter 15. Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers

15.1. Biodiesel Market Industrial Chain Analysis

15.2. Downstream Buyers

Chapter 16. Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders

16.1. Marketing Channel

16.1.1. Direct Marketing

16.1.2. Indirect Marketing

16.1.3. Marketing Channel Development Trend

16.2. Market Positioning

16.2.1. Pricing Strategy

16.2.2. Brand Strategy

16.2.3. Target Client

16.3. Distributors/Traders List

Chapter 17. Market Effect Factors Analysis

17.1. Product Progress/Risk

17.1.1. Substitutes Threat

17.1.2. Product Progress in Related Size

17.2. Consumer Needs/Customer Preference Change

17.3. Economic/Political Environmental Change

Chapter 18. Future Outlook of the Market

Browse Complete Table of Content @ https://www.extrapolate.com/energy-and-power/biodiesel-market/87389

About Us:

Extrapolate is a Global Market Research, Advisory, and Consulting firm that works closely with Industry experts from various industries to bring the latest and most accurate research reports.

In an era of breakneck change and a low tolerance for missed or misread opportunities, businesses need astute guidance to shape markets - not merely respond to them. Extrapolate helps clients develop market perspectives that drive success.

Contact Us

Extrapolate

Phone: (+1) 888 328 2189

E-mail: talk@extrapolate.com

Website: https://www.extrapolate.com

Blog: https://www.extrapolate.com/blog

Follow Us: LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter
Highlights:



Imperials independent qualified persons report updated Indicated Resources of 11.8 million tonnes grading 275.9 g/t Sc 2 O 3 and Inferred Resources of 15.9 million tonnes grading 268.4 g/t Sc 2 O 3 for the Northern Lobe of the TG Scandium Zone.

for the Northern Lobe of the TG Scandium Zone. The updated Mineral Resource Estimate represents a 58% increase in total scandium tonnage for the Indicated Resources category and a 22% increase in total scandium tonnage for the Inferred Resources category.

Determinations of magnet rare earth oxides (Nd, Pr, Dy, Tb) were made for both resource categories.

Using a Net Smelter Return (NSR) cut-off value of $CAN110.11/t for potential open pit extraction method, the value of the mineralization was determined to range between $CAN414-426/t.

Mineralization remains open laterally and at depth, demonstrating the potential to increase the mineral resource with additional drilling.



MONTREAL, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Imperial Mining Group Ltd. ("Imperial") (TSX VENTURE: IPG; OTCQB: IMPNF) is pleased to announce that it has received the results of the updated NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate for the TG Scandium-Rare Earth Zone. The work was completed by InnovExplo Inc. of Val dOr, Quebec. The effective date of the mineral resource estimate is August 3, 2023.

We are extremely pleased by the additional mineral Resource Estimate for the Northern Lobe of the TG, said Pierre Neatby, Imperials new President and CEO. The increase will extend the mine life to over 40 years and allow Pre-Feasibility and Feasibility reports to be completed without additional resources. The next step in the project is the pilot testing of the metallurgical process used to support Imperials PEA reported in June 2022 (See PEA details here). We continue to have discussions with potential strategic investors as well as offtakers of scandium, scandium aluminum alloys and rare earth elements and are pleased with the interest we are getting. A project update will be issued shortly.

RESOURCE ESTIMATE TABLE

Category Cut-off NSR ($/t) Tonnage (Mt) NSR total ($/t) Sc2O3 (g/t) Dy2O3 (g/t) La2O3 (g/t) Nd2O3 (g/t) Pr2O3 (g/t) Tb4O7 (g/t) Indicated 110.1 11.8 426 275.9 66.4 605.5 596.9 160.1 11.7 Inferred 110.1 15.9 414 268.4 66.1 606.9 595.6 159.8 11.6



Mineral Resource Estimate Notes:

The independent and qualified persons for the mineral resource estimate, as defined by NI 43 101, are Marina Iund, P.Geo. (InnovExplo Inc.), Paul Daigle, P.Geo. (InnovExplo Inc. associate), Simon Boudreau, P.Eng., (InnovExplo Inc.), and Carl Pelletier, P.Geo. (InnovExplo Inc.). The effective date of the estimate is August 3, 2023.

These mineral resources are not mineral reserves, as they do not have demonstrated economic viability. The mineral resource estimate follows current CIM Definition Standards.

The results are presented in situ and undiluted and considered to have reasonable prospects of economic viability.

The estimate encompasses two mineralized domains using the grade of the adjacent material when assayed or a value of zero when not assayed.

High-grade capping supported by statistical analysis was done on raw assay data before compositing: La2O3 (2230 g/t), Pr2O3 (890 g/t), Nd2O3 (2200 g/t), Dy2O3 (230 g/t), Sc2O3 (850 g/t) and Tb4O7 (50 g/t).

The estimate was completed using a sub-block model in LeapFrog Edge 2023.1 with user block size of 5m x 5m x 5m and minimum block size of 1.25m x 1.25m x1.25m. Grades interpolation was obtained by ID2 using hard boundaries.

Bulk density values were applied by lithology (g/cm3): OLFESYN = 3.13; PXFESYN = 2.91; SYN = 2.7; POMSYN = 2.77; PEG = 2.65 and OB = 2.0.

The mineral resource estimate is classified as indicated and inferred where reasonable geological and grade continuity have been demonstrated. The Indicated mineral resource category is defined with a minimum of three (3) drill holes in areas where the drill spacing is less than 60 m. The Inferred resources category is defined for the remaining interpolated blocks (minimum 2 DDH). Clipping boundaries were used for classification based on those criteria.

The mineral resource estimate met the reasonable prospect for eventual economic extraction by having pit-constrained volume with a bedrock slope angle of 45 ,an overburden slope angle of 30 and a reported NSR cut-off of 110.11 C$/t.The NSR cut-off was calculated using the following parameters: processing cost = C$16.08; transportation cost (concentrate transportation from mine site to processing plant): C$18.37; G&A: C$7.77; refining and selling costs = C$95.81; Sc2O3 price = US$1,500/kg; La2O3 price = US$0.5/kg; Pr2O3 price = US$29/kg; Nd2O3 price = US$29/kg; Tb4O7 price = US$386/kg; Dy2O3 price = US$124/kg; USD:CAD exchange rate = 1.32; scandium recovery to high grade scandium oxide product = 76.0%; REE recovery to mixed REE carbonate = 63.0%. The cut-off grades should be re-evaluated in light of future prevailing market conditions (metal prices, exchange rates, mining costs etc.).

The number of metric tons was rounded to the nearest thousand, following the recommendations in NI 43 101 and any discrepancies in the totals are due to rounding effects.

The authors are not aware of any known environmental, permitting, legal, title-related, taxation, socio-political, or marketing issues, or any other relevant issue not reported in the Technical Report, that could materially affect the Mineral Resource Estimate.

DESCRIPTION OF THE TG ZONE

The mineral resource estimate underwent a revision, incorporating data from the most recent drilling program conducted in 2022. This program consisted of seven drillholes with a cumulative depth of 1,588 meters and was conducted within the Northern Lobe of the TG Scandium-Rare-Earth mineralized Zone, as illustrated in Figure 1. Notably, our resource estimation efforts have been concentrated exclusively on the Northern Lobe of the TG Zone, which constitutes approximately half of the magnetic anomaly depicted in Figure 1. Although drilling activity in the Southern Lobe has been relatively limited, the available data from these operations has yielded intercepts that are consistent with those observed in the Northern Lobe.

The TG Zone mineralization is characterized by the strong continuity of the iron-rich syenitic intrusive (Ferrosyenite) sill and dyke system and was drilled over a strike length of 300 m, to a vertical depth of 200 m. Intersection lengths through the zone varied between 10 m and 145 m, representing a true thickness of up to 100 m. There was an observed general increase in resource grade and true thickness to mineralization at depth below the pit-shell and towards the north. In addition, numerous Scandium-Rare-Earth resource opportunities remain to be drill-defined on the property and will be evaluated in future exploration programs.

INDEPENDENT QUALIFIED PERSONS

The Mineral Resource Estimate was prepared for Imperial Mining Group Ltd. by InnovExplo Inc. The Qualified Persons (QPs) have reviewed and approved technical information provided on the Crater Lake

deposit mineral resource estimate presented in this news release. The independent QPs who have prepared and supervised the preparation of the technical information relating to the 2023 Crater Lake Mineral Resource Estimate are:

- Marina Iund, P.Geo., M.Sc., Senior Resources Geologist. Ms. Iund is a professional geologist in good standing with the OGQ (No. 1525), PGO (No. 3123) and the NAPEG (No. L4431).

- Carl Pelletier, P.Geo., Co-President Founder of InnovExplo Inc. Mr. Pelletier is a professional geologist in good standing with the OGQ (licence No. 384), PGO (licence No. 1713), EGBC (licence No. 43167) and the NAPEG (No. L4160).

- Paul Daigle, P.Geo., Senior Resources Geologist. Mr. Daigle is a professional geologist in good standing with the OGQ (licence No. 1632).

- Simon Boudreau, P.Eng., Senior Mine Engineer. Mr. Boudreau is a professional engineer in good standing with the OIQ (No. 1320338).

The technical content in this press release was reviewed and certified by Pierre Guay, P. Geo. (OGQ no. 1635), Imperial's Technical Advisor, Exploration, a Geologist and Qualified Person as defined by NI43-101.

ABOUT IMPERIAL MINING GROUP LTD.

Imperial is a Canadian mineral exploration and development company focused on the advancement of its technology metals projects in Quebec. Imperial is publicly listed on the TSX Venture Exchange as IPG and on the OTCQB Exchange as IMPNF and is led by an experienced team of mineral exploration and development professionals with a strong track record of mineral deposit discovery in numerous metal commodities.

For further information please contact:

Pierre Neatby

President and Chief Executive Officer

Phone: +1 (514) 360-0571

Email: info@imperialmgp.com





Website: www.imperialmgp.com Twitter: @imperial_mining Facebook: Imperial Mining Group

This press release may contain forward-looking statements relating to the Companys operations or to its business environment. Such statements are based on the Companys operations, estimates, forecasts, and projections, but are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict or control. Several factors could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from those expressed. These factors include those set forth in the corporate filings. Although any such forward-looking statements are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot guarantee that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. In addition, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, for any reason. We also do not commit in any way to guarantee that we will continue reporting on items or issues that arise. Investors are cautioned that this press release contains quoted historical exploration results. These are derived from filed assessment reports and compiled from governmental databases. The Company and a QP have not independently verified and make no representations as to the accuracy of historical exploration results: these results should not be relied upon. Selected highlight results may not be indicative of average grades.



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.

Figure 1  Crater Lake Drillhole Location Map





Figure 2  Longitudinal (A) and plan view (B) showing the pit-shell and the classified mineral resources above Gog of the TG Zone, Crater Lake Project, Quebec





Figure 3  Longitudinal (A) and plan view (B) showing the pit-shell and the scandium grade distribution above Gog of the TG Zone, Crater Lake Project, Quebec

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5d1fdc6b-6a82-40d9-8e15-729448217efd

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a6892663-f615-4637-b868-4629645af93b

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b0aa870e-52ad-4101-805f-7d63aeae4646
First Time Attending as an Exhibitor to Meet Customers and Strategic Partners

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NewMediaWire  American Shared Hospital Services (ASHS) and GK Financing LLC (GKF), a subsidiary of American Shared Hospital Services (NYSE American: AMS), a leading provider of creative financial and turnkey technology solutions for advanced radiosurgery and radiation oncology services, announced today that for the first time American Shared Hospital Services (ASHS) and its subsidiary, GK Financing (GKF), will not only attend as in previous years but also exhibit at the American Society Radiation Therapy and Oncology (ASTRO) annual meeting being held in San Diego, CA on October 1-4, 2023.

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) is the largest radiation oncology society in the world, with nearly 10,000 members who are physicians, nurses, biologists, physicists, radiation therapists, dosimetrists and other health care professionals who specialize in treating patients with radiation therapies. The ASTRO Annual Meeting is a place where radiation oncology vendors provide and exhibit products and services to help patients in the fight against cancer using the latest software, imaging modalities, and Radiation Treatment systems.

With its focus on making the best healthcare technology accessible to patients and supporting healthcare equity for all, ASHS and GKF will have a booth to meet current customers, prospects, strategic partners, and major OEMs in person. ASHS and GKF will show its creative financial and turnkey solution offerings to key decision makers, radiation oncologists, radiation therapists, medical physicists, and departmental Administrators to educate and inform attendees on how ASHS and GKF can help them obtain the latest medical treatment devices with no capital outlay.

Peter Gaccione, CEO of American Shared Hospital Services and President of GK Financing, stated, "This is a key milestone for us to attend this important annual conference in person and have a dedicated booth to hold informative and educational meetings with attendees, including our current customers and key OEM's attending ASTRO. In past years, ASHS and GKF attended this meeting as attendees, but now as an exhibitor, we have the opportunity to directly market the successful financial and turnkey solutions we provide as an agnostic company that works with all major medical device vendors in radiation oncology."

In conjunction with this years ASTRO meeting, the annual meeting of the American Society of Radiation Technologist (ASRT) will also be held. This Radiation Therapy Conference brings together radiation therapists, medical dosimetrists, and other leading radiation oncology experts from around the world who are driving innovation and the future of the profession.

In addition, the Society for Radiation Oncology Administrators (SROA) will also hold their annual meeting in conjunction with this years ASTRO. Since 1984, SROA has provided a supportive network of expertise for radiation oncology administrators to improve and advance their management of organizational operations, finance, research, and human resources.

Ranjit Pradhan, Head of Marketing and Customer Advocacy for ASHS and GKF, added, "Its not often when three (3) major Societies come together in one location, and by having a dedicated booth here at ASTRO, we have been able to prearrange meetings at the show. We plan to show our existing and potential customers firsthand what we can offer in regard to upgrading their current Gamma Knife products, informing them on best practices that we have seen work successfully at other sites, and to hear more about any current issues facing treatment facilities in today's environment. In addition, with attendees from ASTRO, ASRT, and SROA all together in one location, we have the opportunity to meet the decisions makers and medical expertise that work in areas of radiation and radiosurgery and inform them on how we can also provide financial partnerships for MR Linacs, Proton Beam Therapy, and Linacs."

ASHS and GKF will have staff on hand to meet attendees, please visit booth #2427 to see and hear how our organization can help bring the latest medical treatment technology to your hospital or cancer center.

About American Shared Hospital Services

American Shared Hospital Services (ASHS) is a leading provider of creative financial and turnkey solutions to Cancer Treatment Centers, hospitals, and large cancer networks worldwide. The company works closely with all major global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) that provide leading edge clinical treatment systems and software to treat cancer using Radiation Therapy and Radiosurgery. The company is vendor agnostic and provides financial support for a wide range of products including MR Guided Radiation Therapy Linacs, Advanced Digital Linear Accelerators, Proton Beam Therapy Systems, Brachytherapy systems and suites, and through the Companys subsidiary, GK Financing LLC., the Leksell Gamma Knife product and services. For more information, please visit: www.ashs.com

About GK Financing, LLC

GK Financing, LLC, a subsidiary of American Shared Hospital Services in partnership with Elekta, provides creative financial and turnkey technology solutions for the Gamma Knife system. GKF is the world leader in providing Gamma Knife radiosurgery equipment, a noninvasive treatment for malignant and benign brain tumors, vascular malformations, and trigeminal neuralgia (facial pain). GKF offers creative payment models such as pay per treatment, payment on percentage of revenue collected, and even joint venture models. GKF provides full project management for the entire project with no capital outlay in a risk sharing model.

For more information, please visit: www.gkfinancingllc.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release may be deemed to contain certain forwardlooking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and future plans of GK Financing and American Shared Hospital Services (including statements regarding the expected continued growth in volume of the, expansion of the Company's business, and the timing of treatments by new Gamma Knife systems) which involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the risks of variability of financial results between quarters, the risks of the Gamma Knife and radiation therapy businesses, and the risks of the timing, financing, and operations of the Company business. Further information on potential factors that could affect the financial condition, results of operations and future plans of American Shared Hospital Services is included in the filings of the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company's Annual Report on Form 10K, its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and the definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

Contacts:

ASHS and GK Financing

Peter Gaccione, CEO, ASHS and President, GKF

P: (628-236-4066)

pgaccione@ashs.com

PCG Advisory Group, Investor Relations

Stephanie Prince

P: (646) 863-6341

sprince@pcgadvisory.com

Attachment
ROUYN-NORANDA, Quebec, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Abcourt Mines Inc. (Abcourt or the Corporation) (TSX Venture: ABI) is pleased to announce that the transport of its 5,000 tonnes bulk sample from the Pershing Manitou deposit is now complete and Abcourt is now preparing the Sleeping Giant mill to process the bulk sample. See Figure 1 below.

Figure 1: 5,000 tonnes of Pershing-Manitou stored at the Sleeping Giant mine





Over the past few months, the company has carried out a thorough clean-up of the mill which has enabled us to recover considerable sums of money, update our studies and 3D models as well as identify the maintenance required for a restart of the ore processing plant. The cleaning and recovery phase having been completed; the team can now begin work to put the mill back into operation as quickly as possible.

Thanks to the amounts raised during the first tranche of the current private placement, the company will now be able to relaunch its activities. Over the next 5 weeks, Abcourt will carry out the plant restart sequence. Then, it will process the 5,000 tonnes coming from Pershing-Manitou, which should take 5 to 6 weeks.

In parallel with the start-up of the mill and the resulting sale of gold, Abcourt plans to begin development work in the upper levels of the Sleeping Giant mine with a view to extracting mineralized material. This development work will consist of definition drilling, rehabilitation of the drifts and moving to surface mineralized material already available in the various stopes.

Subsequently, underground mineral extraction from stopes already accessible on levels 145, 190, 235, and 295 will be carried out during the first months of development. The objective is to use the revenues from this extraction to advance the production project, engineering and geology towards a pre-feasibility study.

To accomplish its goals, Abcourt will need to hire miners, mechanics, and plant operators and has already begun the hiring process. People wishing to apply can send their resume to rh@abcourt.com.

Although the company is currently fully capitalized for the next steps, the ongoing private placement will accelerate development underground as well as secure small production that will help the company grow organically. It is expected that the money from the second investment tranche will be used to accelerate gold production. The company would also like to thank all the shareholders who supported it and who continue to do so in these times of restart.

Pascal Hamelin, President and CEO comments: We are pleased to see milling operations restarted, starting with the processing of the 5,000 tonnes from the Pershing-Manitou deposit. This will make it possible to fill the mill circuit after a campaign to recover gold-rich pulps, and to begin receiving material from the Sleeping Giant mine.

About the Pershing-Manitou deposit: The most recent acquisition of Mines Abcourt via the merger of Corporation Resources Pershimex is the Courville property, which is located approximately 75 kilometers north of the town of Val-d'Or, in the locality of Belcourt in Abitibi-Temiscamingue. The Courville property is made up of 322 contiguous claims for a total of 12,307 hectares in one of the most prolific mining regions in the world. The property contains 3 recognized gold deposits: Jolin, Thibodeau and the former Pershing-Manitou mine. The majority of recent work undertaken by Pershimex has been focused on the old mine. Indeed, it was in operation during the Second World War, between 1939 and 1945. Little information on the production history emerges from the archives and public information available. Some historic drilling in the vicinity of the mine has highlighted the gold potential. This is what guided the first work on the Pershing-Manitou deposit. Pershimex carried out approximately 5,000 meters of drilling on the deposit, including the deepest drilling ever carried out under the old mine. Drill hole PM-21-03 returned 3.07 g/t gold over 25.4 meters at a depth of more than 175 meters vertically. Following the drilling, a Mineral Resource Estimate was carried out, and allowed us to request and obtain authorization to extract a bulk sample of 5,000 tonnes which will be processed shortly at our Sleeping Giant mill.

Figure 2: Regional Map of Abitibi in Quebec





Qualified Persons

Mr. Pascal Hamelin, ing, President and Chief Executive Officer of Abcourt, has verified and approved the technical information contained in this press release.

ABOUT ABCOURT MINES INC.

Abcourt Mines Inc. is a Canadian exploration corporation with strategically located properties in northwestern Quebec, Canada. Abcourt owns the Sleeping Giant mill and mine where it concentrates its development activities.

For further information, please visit our website at www.abcourt.ca and consult our filings under Abcourt's profile on www.sedarplus.ca, or contact:

Pascal Hamelin

President and CEO

T: (819) 768-2857

E: phamelin@abcourt.com Dany Cenac Robert, Investor Relations

Reseau ProMarket Inc.,

T: (514) 722-2276, post 456

E: dany.cenac-robert@reseaupromarket.com



FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Certain information contained herein may constitute forward-looking information under Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as plans, seeks, expects, estimates, intends, anticipates, believes, could, might, likely or variations of such words, or statements that certain actions, events or results may, will, could, would, might, will be taken, occur, be achieved or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on Abcourts estimates and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Abcourt to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements are subject to business and economic factors and uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements, including the relevant assumptions and risks factors set out in Abcourts public documents, available on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Although Abcourt believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements and forward-looking information. Except where required by applicable law, Abcourt disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

The TSX Venture Exchange and its regulatory service provider (as defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) assume no responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e9be9a28-f317-4c5c-a9e9-9ebb98570277

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/efef42f4-ee33-4f22-89d7-3e62750d9b35
Dublin, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Urea Formaldehyde Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2023-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global urea formaldehyde market has experienced robust growth, reaching a size of US$ 9.5 billion in 2022, and is poised to continue its upward trajectory, projected to reach US$ 12.1 billion by 2028. This growth is marked by a commendable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.11% from 2022 to 2028.

Urea formaldehyde, a thermoset synthetic resin derived from the chemical combination of urea and formaldehyde, finds diverse applications across industries. It serves as a fundamental component in the production of plastics, particle boards, bottle caps, and even artificial snow for use in movies and amusement parks.

Notably, urea-formaldehyde foams exhibit excellent insulating properties, making them indispensable as thermal insulators in construction, especially within walls, where conventional insulation is essential. The rapid growth in construction activities driven by an expanding global population contributes significantly to the increased demand for urea formaldehyde.

Furthermore, urea formaldehyde plays a vital role in agriculture, functioning as a source of slow-release nitrogen fertilizer. It enhances soil permeability, binds soil particles, regulates release rates, and fosters the development of a well-structured soil framework, supporting healthy plant growth.

In addition to its agricultural application, urea formaldehyde fertilizers are environmentally beneficial as they decompose in the soil through microbial action, ultimately breaking down into urea and formaldehyde. This breakdown supplies nitrogen, promoting foliage and fruit development.

Another key driver for the market is the rising utilization of urea formaldehyde in papermaking, where it enhances paper wet strength and minimizes the production of lackluster paper sheets, addressing concerns related to plastic's environmental impact. Moreover, the automotive and electronics industries increasingly demand high-quality, cost-effective adhesives and resins, further propelling the growth of the urea formaldehyde market.

Key Questions Answered in This Report:

What was the size of the global urea formaldehyde market in 2022?

What is the expected growth rate of the global urea formaldehyde market during 2023-2028?

What are the key factors driving the global urea formaldehyde market?

What has been the impact of COVID-19 on the global urea formaldehyde market?

What is the breakup of the global urea formaldehyde market based on the application?

What is the breakup of the global urea formaldehyde market based on the end use industry?

What are the key regions in the global urea formaldehyde market?

Who are the key players/companies in the global urea formaldehyde market?

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 144 Forecast Period 2022 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $9.5 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $12.1 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 4.1% Regions Covered Global

Competitive Landscape:



The competitive landscape of the industry has also been examined along with the profiles of the key players being

AB Achema (Koncernas Achemos Grupe)

Acron Group

Asta Chemicals Sdn. Bhd.

BASF SE

Borealis AG (OMV AG)

Foresa

Gruppo Frati S.p.A

Hexion Inc.

Mansoura for Resins & Chemical Industries Co. (MRI)

Metafrax Chemicals.

Key Market Segmentation:



Breakup by Type:

Urea Formaldehyde Powder

Urea Formaldehyde Solution

Breakup by Application:

Particle Board

Medium Density Fibreboard

Plywood

Adhesives and Coatings

Molding Compounds

Others

Breakup by End Use Industry:

Furniture

Building and Construction

Transportation

Electrical and Electronics

Others

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/kf47og

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Attachment
Dublin, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Development of the Taiwan Information and Communications Technology Industry, 2023 and Beyond" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This report provides an overview of the Taiwan information and communication technology industry with statistical facts.

It examines the development of the Taiwan information hardware industry, analyzing shipment value and volume by product category, including notebook PC, desktop PC, tablet, motherboard, and server system.

It also investigates the growth of the Taiwan communications hardware industry, assessing shipment value and volume by product category, such as smartphone, WLAN NIC, DSL modem, cable modem, PON CPE, cable STB, IP STB, and OTT STB.

Furthermore, the report delves into the future prospects of both the Taiwan information hardware and communications hardware industries, offering production value forecasts for the period 2023-2026.

Key Topics Covered:

Development of the Taiwan Information and Communication Technology Industry

Development of the Taiwan Information Hardware Industry

Development of the Taiwan Communications Hardware Industry

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes

Amazon

AMD

Applied Materials

ASML

Dell

Google

Merck

Meta

Micron

Microsoft

Mitsubishi Chemical

NXP

Qualcomm

Supermicro

Synopsys

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/6n75x6

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.
Pune, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The SNS Insider report predicts that the Telecom Service Assurance Market will experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.01% between 2023 and 2030, increasing in value from USD 7.1 billion in 2022 to reach USD 15.23 billion by 2030.

Market Overview

Telecommunication service assurance refers to the set of practices and technologies employed by telecommunications companies to ensure the consistent and high-quality delivery of their services to customers. In the ever-evolving world of telecommunications, where customers demand uninterrupted connectivity and superior call and data quality, service assurance plays a pivotal role in maintaining customer satisfaction and loyalty. Telecom companies employ sophisticated monitoring tools and software to continuously monitor the performance of their networks. This includes tracking network traffic, bandwidth usage, and identifying any anomalies or issues in real-time.

Market Analysis

The telecom service assurance market is experiencing significant growth driven by several key factors. The continuous expansion and modernization of telecommunications networks, including the deployment of 5G technology, are creating a growing need for robust service assurance solutions. As networks become more complex and data-intensive, service assurance becomes vital to maintain quality and reliability. With the proliferation of smartphones, IoT devices, and the growing popularity of streaming services, data traffic is surging. This places immense pressure on telecom operators to ensure that their networks can handle the increased demand without compromising on quality. Service assurance tools help in managing this traffic efficiently. Telecom service providers are always looking for ways to optimize their operations and reduce costs.

Get a Free Sample Report of Telecom Service Assurance Market@ https://www.snsinsider.com/sample-request/3679

Major Players Analysis Included in this Report are:

The key players are Ericsson, IBM, Cisco, Comarch, Huawei, Amdocs, VMware, NETSCOUT, Broadcom, HPE, MYCOM OSI, Accenture, Nokia, SysMech, Intracom Telecom, Spirent, EXFO, CommScope, Anritsu, Stixis, VIAVI Solutions, Enghouse Networks, RADCOM, Infovista, Itential (US), Aspire Technology, Anodot, TEOCO, Matellio, and other players

Telecom Service Assurance Market Report Scope:

Report Attributes Details Market Size in 2022 US$ 7.1 Bn Market Size by 2030 US$ 15.23 Bn CAGR CAGR of 10.01 % From 2023 to 2030 Base Year 2022 Forecast Period 2023-2030 Historical Data 2019-2021 Key Regional Coverage North America (US, Canada, Mexico), Europe (Eastern Europe [Poland, Romania, Hungary, Turkey, Rest of Eastern Europe] Western Europe] Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, Rest of Western Europe]), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Singapore, Australia, Rest of Asia Pacific), Middle East & Africa (Middle East [UAE, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Rest of Middle East], Africa [Nigeria, South Africa, Rest of Africa], Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia Rest of Latin America)

Key Takeaway from Telecom Service Assurance Market Study

The mobile operator segment has been witnessing unprecedented growth and evolution, largely due to the relentless demand for mobile connectivity and data services across the globe. The telecom industry is highly competitive. Mobile operators are using service assurance as a differentiator, offering superior network quality and reliability to attract and retain customers.

In the realm of telecom service assurance, the Large Enterprises Segment is asserting its dominance as a key player. Large enterprises, with their extensive and intricate communication needs, have become pivotal in driving the development and adoption of service assurance solutions.

Recent Developments

Telefonica , one of the world's leading telecommunications providers, has taken a significant step towards enhancing its network infrastructure to support the migration to cloud technologies and the rollout of 5G services for enterprise clients. In a strategic move, Telefonica has chosen Mycom OSI (Operations Support System/Service Assurance) as its partner to facilitate this transformation.

, one of the world's leading telecommunications providers, has taken a significant step towards enhancing its network infrastructure to support the migration to cloud technologies and the rollout of 5G services for enterprise clients. In a strategic move, Telefonica has chosen Mycom OSI (Operations Support System/Service Assurance) as its partner to facilitate this transformation. Amdocs, a global leader in software and services for communications and media companies, has recently announced a significant strategic move by signing an agreement to acquire Teoco's service assurance business for a substantial sum of $90 million.

Do you have any specific queries or need any customization research on Telecom Service Assurance Market, Ask Now@ https://www.snsinsider.com/enquiry/3679

Market Dynamics Analysis

The telecom service assurance market is characterized by a dynamic landscape driven by a confluence of factors. On the driver's side, the relentless surge in data consumption, fueled by the proliferation of smartphones and the advent of 5G technology, has placed unprecedented demands on telecom networks, compelling service providers to invest in robust assurance solutions. However, this promising landscape is not devoid of challenges and restraints. First and foremost, the sheer scale and complexity of modern telecom networks, with their hybrid infrastructure comprising legacy systems and cutting-edge technologies, pose significant challenges in ensuring end-to-end service quality. In terms of threats, the market faces the risk of rapid technological obsolescence, as the industry continually evolves to meet the demands of emerging technologies like 6G and the Internet of Things (IoT). Moreover, regulatory changes and compliance requirements can disrupt the market landscape, necessitating constant adaptation by service assurance providers.

Telecom Service Assurance Market Segmentation Analysis Covered:

By Component

Solution

Services

By Deployment Mode

On-Premises

Cloud

By Operator type

Mobile Operator

Fixed Operator

By Organization Size

Small and Medium Enterprises

Large Enterprises

Key Regional Developments

North America is witnessing significant 5G network expansion, with telecom operators aggressively rolling out 5G infrastructure. This has led to increased demand for service assurance solutions to ensure the reliability and quality of 5G services. Europe is experiencing network convergence, with telecom operators merging fixed-line and mobile networks. This transition requires service assurance solutions that can handle complex hybrid networks. Rapidly growing economies in Asia-Pacific are driving the expansion of telecom networks, making the region a hotspot for service assurance solutions. India, for instance, is witnessing massive 4G and 5G adoption.

Impact of Recession on Telecom Service Assurance Market Growth

In a recession, telecom service assurance market faces intensified competition as customers become more price-sensitive and demanding. This drives the need for robust service assurance solutions to maintain service quality and customer satisfaction. Companies are investing in better monitoring and troubleshooting tools to gain a competitive edge. Service providers are investing in technologies that not only detect and resolve issues proactively but also analyze customer data to predict potential problems and prevent service disruptions.

Buy a Complete Report of Telecom Service Assurance Market 2030@ https://www.snsinsider.com/checkout/3679

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Research Methodology

3. Market Dynamics

4. Impact Analysis

5. Value Chain Analysis

6. Porters 5 forces model

7. PEST Analysis

8. Telecom Service Assurance Market Segmentation, By Component

9. Telecom Service Assurance Market Segmentation, By Deployment Mode

10. Telecom Service Assurance Market Segmentation, By Operator type

11. Telecom Service Assurance Market Segmentation, By Organizational Size

12. Regional Analysis

13. Company Profile

14. Competitive Landscape

15. USE Cases and Best Practices

16. Conclusion

Access Complete Report Details@ https://www.snsinsider.com/reports/telecom-service-assurance-market-3679

[For more information or need any customization research mail us at info@snsinsider.com]

About Us:

SNS Insider is one of the leading market research and consulting agencies that dominates the market research industry globally. Our company's aim is to give clients the knowledge they require in order to function in changing circumstances. In order to give you current, accurate market data, consumer insights, and opinions so that you can make decisions with confidence, we employ a variety of techniques, including surveys, video talks, and focus groups around the world.
Raleigh, North Carolina, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vontier Corporation (NYSE: VNT), a leading global provider of critical technologies and solutions to connect, manage and scale the mobility ecosystem, and Invenco by GVR, a subsidiary of Vontier and worldwide leader in convenience retail solutions, announced today they have partnered with Chevron Products Co., a division of Chevron U.S.A. Inc., to deploy their cloud-based microservices platform, iNFX at Chevron and Texaco gas stations in the U.S.

The iNFX Electronic Payment Server is a cloud managed, fit-for-purpose IoT based microservices platform that provides a better customer experience through faster payment transactions, simple integration with other devices at the site, greater uptime, and the ability to bring new capabilities & features to market faster.

Chevron will benefit from the iNFX platform through:

Digital agility: The iNFX platform is modular, hardware agnostic, scalable and extensible. Chevron can select the plug-ins they need, expedite digital transformation without disrupting site operations and harmonize core payment systems based on global standards.

The iNFX platform is modular, hardware agnostic, scalable and extensible. Chevron can select the plug-ins they need, expedite digital transformation without disrupting site operations and harmonize core payment systems based on global standards. Rapid deployment: Standards-based APIs and plug-ins are used extensively to enable efficient integration with minimal customization, allowing Chevron the flexibility to add new capabilities and features quickly, creating a more consistent consumer experience.

Chevron has been looking for a solution to enable faster transaction times and rapid deployment of new features & payment options to market, and we are excited to help achieve Chevrons goals via iNFX, said Karthik Ganapathi, president of Invenco by GVR. Through iNFX, Chevron will have a microservices led, cloud-based solution that enables productivity, reduces complexity and operating costs, improves the consumer experience and accelerates Chevron's revenue growth.

Chevron presented this iNFX platform solution at their Americas Fuels Convention in August and expects to begin deploying iNFX edge devices to U.S. Chevron and Texaco stations over the next several months. The target is to complete the rollout at over 8,000 locations in the U.S. by the end of 2024.

This new platform is great for our Chevron and Texaco marketers and retailers, said Tryp Wittstruck, Chevron Channel Experience manager. In addition to greater flexibility and speed-to-deployment, they can benefit from remote deployment through onsite iNFX edge devices or Invenco outdoor payment terminals, reducing the tech visits required to enable new features.

This relationship between Invenco by GVR and Chevron promises to shape the future of innovation and redefine the way Chevron drives productivity at their branded retailers. This collaboration is a testament to the shared vision of utilizing the power of cutting-edge technology to create a lasting impact and delivering unmatched value.

For more information about the cloud-based microservices platform, iNFX, visit invenco.com or follow Invenco by GVR on LinkedIn.

About Vontier

Vontier (NYSE: VNT) is a global industrial technology company uniting critical mobility and multi-energy technologies and solutions to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving, more connected mobility ecosystem. Leveraging leading market positions, decades of domain expertise and unparalleled portfolio breadth, Vontier enables the way the world moves  delivering smart, safe and sustainable solutions to our customers and the planet. Vontier has a culture of continuous improvement built upon the foundation of the Vontier Business System and embraced by over 8,500 colleagues worldwide. Additional information about Vontier is available on the Companys website at www.vontier.com.

About Invenco by GVR

Invenco by GVR, a Vontier business, is a global leader in the convenience retail industry. Built to help customers adapt and innovate to stay ahead, Invenco by GVR will be the operating system for convenience retail, producing agile solutions for accelerated growth and value. Invenco by GVR Solutions can be found in nearly 165,000 connected devices across 50,000 convenience stores in more than 50 countries. To find out more about Invenco by GVR visit www.invenco.com.
Boulder, Colorado, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Knowledge Factor, Inc. (Amplifire), the leading adaptive eLearning and content creation platform leveraging advances in brain science, and owner of the Healthcare Alliance, welcomes Dr. Bruce Gillingham to its Strategic Advisory Board. Gillingham will lend his expertise in healthcare innovation strategy and public service initiatives for the Healthcare Alliance, the Amplifire-founded collaborative consortium of over 25 leading U.S. health systems.

Gillingham's partnership underscores Amplifire's mission to revolutionize healthcare education and enhance patient care on a global scale. As the former 39th Surgeon General of the United States Navy, Gillingham recently retired from 40 years of active-duty service. During his tenure, he led approximately 44,000 Navy medical personnel through the U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgerys (BUMED) most comprehensive transformation since World War II. Gillingham oversaw a shift in mission from oversight of military treatment facility-based care to expeditionary, operational support. Under his leadership, Navy Medicine provided the policy and guidance that ensured that the Navy and Marine Corps were able to operate around the globe continuously and safely during the pandemic. As one of the nations top minds in health operations, Gillingham gives Amplifires advisory board a critical edge.

Bruce Gillinghams integrity and reputation for establishing elite patient care in adverse environments is an invaluable resource to Amplifire in healthcare and beyond. His presence on our advisory board furthers our commitment to revolutionizing healthcare training, championing patient safety, bolstering public sector initiatives, and our overall public service agenda, shared Bob Burgin, CEO of Amplifire. It is a true honor to collaborate with Dr. Gillingham in our shared mission.

Im thrilled to join the Amplifire team, Bruce Gillingham expressed. Its readily apparent to me that those organizations which have adopted the Amplifire training platform have made demonstrable progress in improving staff performance at all levels. As a physician and healthcare executive, I see the Amplifire platform filling a critical gap in the crusade to eliminate preventable patient harm. I cant wait to help expand the awareness and utilization of this paradigm shifting eLearning platform.

During his career, Gillingham served throughout Navy Medicine as director of Pediatric Orthopedic and Scoliosis Surgery; Associate Orthopedic Residency Program director; and director of Surgical Services. He was the Officer in Charge of a Surgical/Shock Trauma Platoon that achieved 98% combat casualty survival during Operation Al Fajr, The Second Battle of Fallujah, in 2004. While assigned to Naval Medical Center San Diego, he was instrumental in establishing the Comprehensive Combat and Complex Casualty Care Center. He was in command at the hospital, medical center, and enterprise level.

Gillinghams awards include the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit (eight awards), Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (two awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with the Eagle Globe, and Anchor device with bronze star and the Fleet Marine Force ribbon.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Anthropology (with high honors) from the University of California, San Diego, and a Doctor of Medicine from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences where he is a Distinguished Professor of Military and Emergency Medicine. He is an inductee in the medical honor society of Alpha Omega Alpha and is a Certified Physician Executive.

About Amplifire

Amplifire is a next-generation learning platform with more than four billion learner interactions and is an innovator in high-stakes workforce training for critical roles. The platform harnesses advances in cognitive science to create personalized learning and drive successful outcomes. The platforms adaptive algorithm guides learners to mastery across healthcare, government, military, food service, corporate, and education segments, providing unique learner analytics that offer valuable learner insights.

Attachment
New York, USA, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to the research report published by Market Research Future (MRFR),  Media Gateway Market Information Deployment Mode, By Type, By Technology, By End User, By Region Market Forecast Till 2032. The global media gateway market is poised to grow from USD 2.9 BN in 2022 to USD 3.55 BN by 2032, expanding at a 2.30% CAGR throughout the review period (2020-2030).



Market Synopsis:

The media gateway market has grown steadily over the past few years due to the growing need for integrated communication networks.

Media gateway plays a significant role in today's digital world. In telecommunications, the media gateway is a crucial component, enabling seamless communication across various networks and bridging different types of digital media. Media gateways facilitate communication between networks, such as a traditional telephone network and an Internet Protocol (IP) network.



Get Free Sample PDF Brochure -



https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/11900



Market Competitive Landscape:

Leading media gateway market players are,

ZTE Corporation., Systems, Inc.

Panasonic Corporation

Murata Manufacturing Co.

ROHM Co., Ltd.

uBeam

Koninklijke Philips N.V.

HUMAVOX Ltd.

Powercast Corp.

Powermat

Fulton Innovation LLC

WiTricity Corporation

TDK Corporation

Integrated Device Technology, Inc.

Ossia Inc., Texas Instruments Incorporated



Among others.





Scope of the Report - Media Gateway Market:

Report Metrics Details Market Size by 2032 USD 3.55 Billion CAGR during 2023-2032 2.30% Base Year 2022 Forecast 2023-2032 Key Market Opportunities Infrastructure Development in the Communications Sector Key Market Dynamics The demand for network interoperability is rising





Buy Now Premium Research Report - Get Comprehensive Market Insights.



To do so, they convert different data types, such as audio and video, into a suitable transmission over a network format. This interoperability allows for a more integrated and efficient communication system. In addition to interoperability, the ability to streamline communication by eliminating the need for multiple devices & networks is another significant benefit of media gateways.

Converting data into a transmitted over a network format not only simplifies the communication process but also eliminates the need for multiple devices & networks and reduces the maintenance cost of multiple networks. Moreover, media gateways can support various communication protocols, enhancing flexibility and adaptability to various network environments.

This adaptability is highly beneficial, particularly in today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, with constantly emerging communication technologies. Media gateways also offer scalability, which is imperative in growing businesses seeking to meet their expanding communication needs. The improved scalability helps businesses ensure effective communication continuity.

VoIP media gateway is a highly reliable solution for telecom service providers, interconnecting legacy TDM and modern VoIP networks. Therefore, distributed service providers adopt them to meet their goals of expanding or modernizing networks cost-effectively. With the rapid switch to IP-based networks, unified communications, and VoIP, the implementation of improved communication networks is increasing. Also, the demand for network interoperability is rising, substantiating the media gateway market size.



Browse In-depth Market Research Report (128 Pages, Charts, Tables, Figures) on Media Gateway Market -



https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/media-gateway-market-11900



Media Gateway Market Segments:

The media gateway market forecast is segmented into types, technologies, end-users, and regions. The type segment is sub-segmented into analog and digital. The technology segment is sub-segmented into wireline, wireless, and hybrid. The end user segment is sub-segmented into telecommunications, manufacturing, government, banking, financial services, insurance (BFSI), healthcare, transportation, and others. By regions, the media gateway market is segmented into the Americas, Asia-Pacific, Europe, MEA, and the rest of the world.

Regional Analysis:

North America dominates the global media gateway market, witnessing the broad use of IP-based communication systems. Besides, the presence of highly developed telecommunications infrastructure and significant market players boosts the media gateway market size. The rapid adoption of cloud and mobile applications in BFSI, healthcare, wearable, consumer electronics, and other sectors pushes regional market growth. With the evolving IP security space in the country, the US accounts for the largest media gateway market share.

Europe stands second in the global media gateway market due to the increasing adoption of cutting-edge communication technologies. Moreover, digital transformation initiatives and the necessity for effective & secure communication networks substantiate the media gateway market revenues. Germany holds the largest, while the UK holds the second-largest European media gateway market share. Also, the growing adoption of cloud-based services and gateway solutions in government establishments fosters regional market growth.

Asia-Pacific is growing rapidly, headed by rapid economic expansion and investments in telecommunications infrastructure. Additionally, the vast adoption of cutting-edge communication technology and media gateway in increasing numbers of enterprises to enhance network communication structure escalates the media gateway market value. Also, increasing improvements in IoT network structure and communication technologies, alongside the rising demand for media gateway solutions from the BFSI, healthcare, and telecom industries, support the regional market growth.

Competitive Analysis:

The highly competitive media gateway market appears fragmented with the presence of several well-established players. Leading providers look for partners with complementary strengths and can allow integrated products for their embedded sensor technologies that can be used in multiple market verticals. To gain a larger competitive advantage, industry players initiate strategic approaches, such as mergers & acquisitions, collaborations, expansion, and product/ technology launches.



Ask for Customization - Get a customized version of the report by submitting a customization request.



For instance, on July 24, 2023, TelcoBridges, a leading designer & manufacturer of carrier-grade VoIP gateways, announced the successful completion of media gateway certification of interoperability testing by Metaswitch, a Microsoft company. This certification confirms that TelcoBridges Tmedia gateway versions are now fully interoperable with the widely deployed MetaSphere Call Feature Server (CFS). TelcoBridges now offers Tmedia for Metaswitch Networks as a software option/upgrade for existing and new Tmedia products.

Related Reports:

Proptech Market - Proptech Market is projected to register a CAGR of 4.68% to reach USD 1,652.40 Billion by the end of 2032.

5G Radio Access Network Market - The 5G Radio Access Network market is projected to grow USD 65.6 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 19.50% during the forecast period (2023 - 2032).

5G System Integration Market - The 5G System Integration market industry is projected to grow USD 71.3 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 27.70% during the forecast period 2023-2032.



Browse through more Information And Communications Technology Research Reports.

About Market Research Future:

At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.

MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions.

Contact Us:
Shanghai, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The World Laureates Association Prize (WLA Prize) unveils its 2023 laureates on Thursday, at a press conference held in Shanghai. This year, a total of five exceptional scientists are being honored with the Prize's two individual awards: the WLA Prize in Computer Science or Mathematics and the WLA Prize in Life Science or Medicine.

The 2023 WLA Prize in Computer Science or Mathematics recognizes two scientists: Arkadi Nemirovski, John P. Hunter, Jr. Chair Professor at the H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology, and Yurii Nesterov, Professor Emeritus and Senior Scientific Researcher at the Center for Operations Research & Econometrics and Mathematical Engineering Department at the Universite Catholique de Louvain, "for their seminal work in convex optimization theory, including the theory of self-concordant functions and interior-point methods, a complexity theory of optimization, accelerated gradient methods, and methodological advances in robust optimization."

The 2023 WLA Prize in Life Science or Medicine recognizes three scientists: Daniela Rhodes, Emeritus Group leaderat the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, Karolin Luger, Professor and Jennie Smoly Caruthers Endowed Chair of Biochemistry at the University of Colorado Boulder, and Timothy J. Richmond, Professor of Crystallography of Biological Macromolecules (Emeritus) at ETH Zurich, "for elucidating the structure of the nucleosome at the atomic level, providing the basis for understanding chromatin, gene regulation, and epigenetics."

The 2023 WLA Prize Award Ceremony is scheduled to take place in Shanghai on November 6, followed by a series of engaging sessions to celebrate the laureates' outstanding achievements.

The WLA Prize is an international science prize established in Shanghai, in 2021, initiated by the World Laureates Association (WLA), managed by the WLA Foundation, and exclusively funded by HongShan. Each year, the WLA Prize is awarded in two categories: "Computer Science or Mathematics" and "Life Science or Medicine", with the total award for each Prize, which may be divided among up to four laureates, being RMB 10 million. The prize money of each award this year will be shared equally among the winners.

Interpretation on the 2023 WLA Prize in Computer Science or Mathematics: "For their seminal work in convex optimization theory"

Optimization theory is arguably the area of mathematics that has had the most significant impact outside of mathematics over the past three decades. It has found major applications in fields such as control systems, economics, signal processing, machine learning, resource allocation, energy management, supply chain management, and finance, says Michael I. Jordan, Chair of the 2023 WLA Prize Selection Committee in Computer Science or Mathematics.

Arkadi Nemirovski and Yurii Nesterov's work "has sparked the 'first-order revolution' that has allowed optimization algorithms to be applied to the large-scale problems characteristic of modern applications," comments Jordan, adding that "their development of a complexity theory for optimization and a suite of acceleration methods has deepened our understanding of what is possible in optimization and what is meant by an 'optimal way to optimize.'"

Additionally, Nemirovski and Nesterov have authored several impactful textbooks. broadening the reach of their discoveries and insights to a diverse audience spanning mathematics, engineering, and beyond.

Interpretation on the 2023 WLA Prize in Life Science or Medicine: "For elucidating the structure of the nucleosome at the atomic level"

At that time, "the immediate challenge was to determine the atomic structure of the nucleosome with the conviction that such molecular information would illuminate fundamental aspects of chromatin function," says Randy Schekman, Chair of the WLA Prize Selection Committee in Life Science or Medicine and 2013 Nobel Laureate in Physiology or Medicine.

A major advancement was made with the first breakthrough coming through the efforts of Daniela Rhodes, according to Schekman. Rhodes succeeded in obtaining the first crystals of nucleosomes extracted from native sources that led to a low-resolution structure of about 20A. She also obtained methods for nucleosome reconstitution from the histone octamer and DNA of defined length. This advance allowed Timothy J. Richmond to refine the structure resolution to 7A. Then Karolin Luger led an effort to obtain crystals that diffracted to 2.8A resolution. "In a landmark paper published in 1997, Luger, Richmond and co-workers revealed details of the nucleosome structure that have guided subsequent studies on chromatin-binding proteins, histone-modifying enzymes and nucleosome positioning and remodeling and their control of transcription regulation and DNA replication," Schekman says.

According to Schekman, one of the great mysteries of cellular organization is how the chromosomes containing DNA molecules which could stretch to a meter in length, and which carry ~3B bits of information can be organized into the nucleus of a cell, which is only about 1,000th the size of the period at the end of this sentence. The three laureates "have left an indelible mark on the history of our understanding of chromosome structure" through their over two-decade-long research.

Michael Levitt, Vice-Chair of the WLA and 2013 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, attended the press conference on Thursday to witness the announcement of the laureates. Wu Xiangdong, Executive Director of the WLA and Chair of the WLA Prize Management Committee addressed the press conference.

About the WLA Prize

The World Laureates Association Prize (WLA Prize) is an international science prize established in Shanghai, in 2021, initiated by the World Laureates Association (WLA), managed by the WLA Foundation, and exclusively funded by HongShan. The WLA Prize aims to recognize and support eminent researchers and technologists worldwide for their contributions to science. It is intended to support global science and technology advancement, address the challenges to humanity, and promote society's long-term progress. Each year, the WLA Prize is awarded in two categories: "Computer Science or Mathematics" and "Life Science or Medicine", with the total award for each Prize, which may be divided among up to four laureates, being RMB 10 million.

About the World Laureates Association

The World Laureates Association (WLA) is a non-governmental and non-profit international organization. It is one of the world's highest-profile organizations of laureates with three missions: "promote basic science, advocate for international cooperation, and support the development of youth." Upholding the vision of "Science and Technology for the Common Destiny of Mankind," the WLA actively foster close scientific exchange among esteemed scientists and scholars around the globe.

About the WLA Foundation

The WLA Foundation is a non-public charitable foundation that supports all WLA missions and activities by bringing together social forces.

About HongShan

HongShan is a leading venture capital and private equity firm investing across technology, healthcare and consumer sectors. Since 2005, HongShan has been fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, backing more than 1,500 companies around the globe with transformative technologies, disruptive business models and high-growth potential. To date, more than 160 HongShan portfolio companies have listed on public stock exchanges, while nearly 130 private portfolio companies have reached unicorn status. It adheres to nurturing scientific talents and entrepreneurs, inspiring technology-driven enterprises, and fulfilling its social responsibilities in the fields of scientific and technological innovation. As the exclusive sponsor of the World Laureates Association Prize (WLA Prize), HongShan is dedicated to promoting scientific progress and industrial development in China and for humanity as a whole.

Attachments
NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Saba Capital Management, L.P. and certain associated parties (collectively Saba or we) today announced that it has reached an agreement with Citadel Income Fund (TSX: CTF.UN) (Citadel or the Fund) and its manager, Artemis Investment Management Limited (Artemis).



Under the terms of the agreement, the Fund will commence an offer (the Redemption Offer) to redeem for cash, on a pro rata basis from all unitholders of the Fund (Unitholders) who tender all or a portion of their Fund units (the Units) to such Redemption Offer, not less than 7,186,900 Units at an amount per Unit equal to the net asset value (NAV) less redemption costs equal to 4.5% of NAV. In exchange for the Redemption Offer, Saba agreed to withdraw its requisitions previously submitted to the Fund and to customary releases and standstill provisions. The agreement also contains restrictions on the ability of Citadel to take certain actions during the 12-month standstill period and an expense reimbursement provision.

Saba is pleased to have reached this agreement through engagement with the Fund and its manager, said Paul Kazarian, Partner and Portfolio Manager at Saba. Our actions led to the Fund publicly declaring a 40% redemption and we are glad that, through private negotiation, we were able to increase this to 70% and obtain a higher price. We believe all unitholders will benefit from the Redemption Offer resulting from the agreement as it enables unitholders to tender their Units at a price close to the Funds net asset value.

As of the date hereof, funds managed by Saba hold 2,176,014 Units, representing approximately 21.19% of Citadels issued and outstanding Units, and it intends that all such Units will be tendered to the Redemption Offer. Depending on the level of participation of Unitholders in the Redemption Offer, following the redemption the funds managed by Saba may not hold any Units. The value of consideration to be received per Unit and in total is not yet known, but it will be an amount per Unit equal to the NAV less redemption costs equal to 4.5% of NAV.

Pursuant to the agreement with Citadel and Artemis, Saba has agreed to vote any Units it beneficially owns at any meeting of Unitholders held in the period that is 12 months following the date of the settlement agreement in favor of certain amendments to Citadels Declaration of Trust including amendments to Citadels investment strategy, objectives, and restrictions for the limited purpose of permitting Citadel to, and only to the extent required to permit Citadel to, exclusively invest in a portfolio of resale residential real estate properties in Canada through co-ownership agreements with homebuyers and reducing the management expense ratio (which includes the management fee) to a cap of 2.5% and to remove the annual and monthly redemption rights of Unitholders (the Conversion). After giving effect to the Fund Conversion, the Fund will no longer be an investment fund, and will operate as a non-investment fund reporting issuer.

The Funds head office is located at 1325 Lawrence Avenue East, Suite 200, Toronto, ON M3A 1C6.

About Saba Capital

Saba Capital Management, L.P. is a global alternative asset management firm that seeks to deliver superior risk-adjusted returns for a diverse group of clients. Founded in 2009 by Boaz Weinstein, the Firm is a pioneer of credit relative value strategies and capital structure arbitrage. The Firm is headquartered in New York City. Learn more at www.sabacapital.com.

Contacts

Longacre Square Partners

Greg Marose / Kate Sylvester, 646-386-0091

gmarose@longacresquare.com / ksylvester@longacresquare.com
Dublin, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Specialty Cellulose Market (2023 Edition): Analysis By Product Type (Cellulose Acetate, Cellulose Ether, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Others), By End-User, By Region, By Country: Market Insights and Forecast (2019-2029)" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global Specialty Cellulose market is poised for significant growth, with projections indicating it will surge to USD 3.27 billion by the close of 2029, a notable increase from USD 2.2 billion in 2022.

This robust expansion can be attributed to a range of favorable factors, including a rising global demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials, increasing utilization in the food and pharmaceutical sectors, continuous advancements in the textile and apparel industry, and the burgeoning personal care and cosmetic industry.

Driving Technological Innovations

Over the forecast period spanning 2024 to 2029, the global Specialty Cellulose market is anticipated to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.28%. Crucial to this growth is the continuous wave of technological innovations that have significantly improved the efficiency of producing specialty cellulose. Contemporary production techniques, featuring advanced pulping methods and enzymatic treatments, empower manufacturers to yield high-quality specialty cellulose while mitigating environmental impact.

Diverse Applications of Cellulose Acetate

One of the pivotal materials within the global Specialty Cellulose market is cellulose acetate, celebrated for its versatility. This material is harnessed across an array of specialty applications, including textiles, films, coatings, and more. Notably, within the textile sector, specialty cellulose fibers like lyocell are increasingly employed as substitutes for traditional fibers due to their sustainable attributes and enhanced comfort. The broadening landscape of applications continues to drive demand for specialty cellulose.

Meeting Sustainability Goals

Specialty cellulose, particularly cellulose acetate, boasts biocompatibility and moisture management properties that render it suitable for various medical and healthcare applications. Furthermore, the global trade of cellulose and its derivatives has witnessed substantial growth, with data from The Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC) ranking it as the world's 466th most traded product. Exports of cellulose surged by 17% from USD 5.58 billion in 2020 to USD 6.53 billion in 2021.

Sustainable Packaging Solutions

In a world actively seeking alternatives to single-use plastics, specialty cellulose assumes a pivotal role within the packaging industry. Specialty cellulose-based materials enable the creation of biodegradable and compostable packaging solutions, aligning with the global demand for sustainable packaging options. The European Union's Single-Use Plastics Directive has further spurred the adoption of specialty cellulose-based packaging solutions by encouraging the use of biodegradable materials.

Scope of the Report

The comprehensive report analyzes the Specialty Cellulose Market by Value (USD Million) and provides a thorough examination of the market for the historical period spanning 2019-2022, with estimations for the year 2023. It also offers a detailed outlook for the forecast period of 2024-2029.

Key Insights and Competitive Landscape

The report employs SWOT and Porter's Five Forces Analysis frameworks to present key insights. It explores the market's attractiveness across regions, services, modes of operation, and end users. The report delves into major opportunities, trends, drivers, and challenges within the industry.

Additionally, it closely tracks competitive developments, strategies, mergers and acquisitions, and new product development. The key companies analyzed in the report include:

Borregaard

Bracell

Eastman Chemical Co.

Celanese Corporation

Daicel Corporation

Rayonier Advanced Materials

Sigachi Industries Ltd

Sappi Ltd.

Georgia-Pacific

Cosmo Specialty Fibers

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 220 Forecast Period 2024 - 2029 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $2.41 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2029 $3.27 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 6.2% Regions Covered Global

Key Topics Covered:



1. Market Background

1.1 Scope and Product Outlook

1.2 Executive Summary

1.3 Research Methodology



2. Strategic Recommendations

2.1 Diversification of Product Portfolio

2.2 Expand Usage of MCC in Pharmaceutical Industry



3. Global Specialty Cellulose Market: Historic and Forecast (2019-2029)



4. Global Specialty Cellulose Market, Regional Analysis



5. Americas Specialty Cellulose Market: Historic and Forecast (2019-2029)



6. Europe Specialty Cellulose Market: Historic and Forecast (2019-2029)



7. Asia Pacific Specialty Cellulose Market: Historic and Forecast (2019-2029)



8. Middle East & Africa Specialty Cellulose Market: Historic and Forecast (2019-2029)



9. Market Dynamics



10. Industry Ecosystem Analysis



11. Competitive Landscape

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/nozvg2

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Attachment
Dublin, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Space-Based Laser Communication Market - A Global and Regional Analysis: Focus on End User, Application, Solution, Component, Range, and Country - Analysis and Forecast, 2023-2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global space-based laser communication market is on track to witness substantial growth, with a projected value of $10.72 billion by 2033, up from $3.04 billion in 2023, showcasing a remarkable Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.43%.

This remarkable growth is attributed to the incorporation of transformative technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), electronically steered antennas (ESAs), miniaturization of components, and inter-satellite links (ISLs), all of which enhance communication performance in both terrestrial and space environments.

Several factors contribute to this growth, with mega constellations by industry giants like OneWeb, SpaceX, and Amazon's Project Kuiper in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO) playing a pivotal role. In 2023, satellites in low orbit, such as those deployed by Starlink, are now equipped with laser terminals, forming constellations with optical inter-satellite links (OISLs) that establish robust mesh networks in space.

Telesat's LightSpeed constellation plans to incorporate optical satellite links upon full deployment, while OneWeb contemplates adding optical links in its phase two rollout. Amazon's Kuiper constellation was designed with inter-satellite links in mind. Key players in this domain, including Tesat-Spacecom GmbH & Co., SKYLOOM, Bridgecomm, and Mynaric, continually invest in research and development to introduce innovative laser terminals.

The market's segmentation is based on end-users, applications, solutions, components, and range, with ongoing investments in advanced technologies by key players and government space agencies, paving the way for growth and innovation in the sector.

Market Overview

The global space-based laser communication market has witnessed significant advancements, offering opportunities to extend terrestrial network functionalities to satellite networks. These advancements enable applications such as virtual private networks, edge computing, advanced 5G/6G services, and seamless internet connectivity to and from space. Current capabilities of conventional satellite systems fall short of providing such extensive functionalities.

Satellite constellations are poised to drive the market further, offering global or near-global coverage that ensures uninterrupted connectivity, a critical requirement for telecommunications, Earth observation, data relay, and global positioning systems. This continuous coverage benefits various industries, including telecommunications, space exploration, climate monitoring, surveillance, and more.

Market Segmentation

Segmentation 1: by End User

Government and Military

Commercial

Commercial Segment to Lead the Market: The commercial segment is projected to dominate the market, holding a 92.72% share in 2033, with a market value expected to reach $9.94 billion by 2033, registering a CAGR of 13.31% during 2023-2033.

Segmentation 2: by Application

Technology Development

Earth Observation and Remote Sensing

Data Relay

Communication

Surveillance and Security

Research and Space Exploration

Communication Segment Dominates: The communication application is expected to dominate the market in 2023. Space-based laser communication emerges as a promising technology for future broadband communication solutions.

Segmentation 3: by Solution

Space-to-Space

Space-to-Other Application

Space-to-Ground Station

Segmentation 4: by Component

Optical Head

Laser Receiver and Transmitter

Modulator and Demodulator

Pointing Mechanism

Others

Segmentation 5: by Range

Short Range (Below 5,000 Km)

Medium Range (5,000-35,000 Km)

Long Range (Above 35,000 Km)

Segmentation 6: by Region

North America (U.S. and Canada)

Europe (U.K., France, Germany, Russia, and Rest-of-Europe)

Asia-Pacific (China, India, Japan, and Rest-of-Asia-Pacific)

Rest-of-the-World (Latin America and Middle East and Africa)

North America to Dominate: North America is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 14.09%, with a significant presence of established space-based laser communication providers and industry players.

Recent Developments

In August 2023, the Space Development Agency (SDA) awarded a $3 million contract for the design and development of an optical ground station for data transmission with satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO), enabling connections with space-based optical communication terminals.

In June 2023, Mynaric secured a contract with Raytheon Technologies for the Space Development Agency's (SDA) Tranche 1 Tracking Layer program.

In June 2023, LASER LIGHT COMMUNICATIONS INC signed a $25 million partnership with Nokia to build LASER LIGHT's worldwide all-optical network.

In May 2023, Tesat-Spacecom GmbH & Co. announced a partnership with SES to develop and integrate the Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) payload for the EAGLE-1 satellite.

In May 2023, Mynaric announced a definitive agreement for the sale of CONDOR Mk3 terminals to Loft Federal, a subsidiary of Loft Orbital, for the Space Development Agency's (SDA) Experimental Testbed.







Market Dynamics

Drivers

Deployment of Quantum Key Distribution for Secure Data Exchange

Rising Demand for High-Speed Data Transmission

Low Data Latency Using GEO Relay or LEO Constellation

Challenges

Distortions in Laser Signals During Space-to-Ground Communication

Use of Higher Optical Power in Comparison to Terrestrial Application

Need for Accurate Beam Pointing

Opportunities

Direct Data Downstream from LEO Earth Observation Satellites-to-Ground

Enhancement and Development of Optical Ground Station Design for Coherent Communication







Companies Mentioned

Bridgecomm

General Atomics

HENSOLDT

LASER LIGHT COMMUNICATIONS INC

Mynaric

ODYSSEUS SPACE SA

Skyloom

SPACE MICRO, INC.

Tesat-Spacecom GmbH & Co.

Thales Alenia Space

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 184 Forecast Period 2023 - 2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $3.04 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $10.72 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 13.4% Regions Covered Global







For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/kv2nkk

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Attachment
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life and extending the survival of patients suffering from this condition.



The Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market for drugs to treat congestive heart failure is poised for robust growth globally, driven by rising rates of heart failure and advances in cardiovascular therapies. This market plays a vital role in enhancing quality of life and survival for heart failure patients. Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively. Drugs for CHF help manage symptoms like fluid accumulation and improve cardiac function. Common drug classes are diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and in severe cases, aldosterone antagonists and inotropes. Newer therapies like angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs) and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors show promise in reducing mortality and hospitalizations. Treatment plans are personalized based on the patient's specific condition and causes. Regular monitoring and adjustments are key for optimal CHF management.

Request For Free Sample Report @ https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/request-sample/3364

Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market Report Coverage:

Market Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market Size 2022 USD 6.9 Billion Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market Forecast 2032 USD 26.1 Billion Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market CAGR During 2023 - 2032 14.3% Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market Analysis Period 2020 - 2032 Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market Base Year 2022 Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market Forecast Data 2023 - 2032 Segments Covered By Drug Class, By Distribution Channel, And By Geography Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market Regional Scope North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa Key Companies Profiled Novartis, Amgen, AstraZeneca, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, Merck & Co., Mylan, Boehringer Ingelheim, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), and Eli Lilly and Company Report Coverage

Market Trends, Drivers, Restraints, Competitive Analysis, Player Profiling, Regulation Analysis

Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market Stats and Highlights:

The Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market is projected to reach USD 26.1 billion by 2032, up from USD 6.9 billion in 2022, representing a CAGR of 14.3%.

North America dominated the market in 2022 with over 34% share, owing to high incidence and established healthcare.

ACE inhibitors held a major share of over 29% in 2022 due to efficacy in managing symptoms and improving outcomes.

The market's expansion is further accelerated by the increasing awareness of heart failure, early diagnosis, and a growing pipeline of novel drugs and therapies.

Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market Overview:

The Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market faces rising demand with growing patient numbers from aging populations and risk factors like obesity and hypertension. There is also a need for innovative therapies to improve quality of life beyond existing medications like diuretics and ACE inhibitors. Advanced drugs like ARNIs and SGLT2 inhibitors have shown promise in trials, but growth depends on drug costs and reimbursement policies.

Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market Applications and Trends:

Biologics like monoclonal antibodies and gene therapies are emerging as potential CHF treatments.

Telehealth and remote monitoring are enabling personalized care and medication adherence.

Multidrug regimens combining classes like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and diuretics are gaining traction.

Digital health platforms and wearables monitor signs for timely intervention.

Factors Driving the Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market Growth:

The growing population of elderly individuals around the world is significantly contributing to the rising prevalence of heart failure. As life expectancies increase and the large baby boomer generation ages, there are simply more older adults who are at risk for developing heart failure. This demographic shift is expected to drive up the demand for congestive heart failure drugs in the coming years.

Major advances in the field of cardiology, including cutting-edge research into innovative pharmacological agents, medical devices like pacemakers and defibrillators, and highly complex cardiac surgeries and procedures, are leading to marked improvements in the prognosis and survival rates of patients diagnosed with congestive heart failure. These medical breakthroughs are ensuring that patients can live longer and better quality lives despite having a chronic condition that affects heart functioning.

Widespread awareness campaigns and educational initiatives focused on promoting the early diagnosis of congestive heart failure and highlighting the major signs, symptoms, and risk factors are enabling patients to seek timely medical intervention. This is helping drive earlier treatment and management, which is critical for preventing complications and progression of the disease. Prevention is also being emphasized, with efforts to curb lifestyle risk factors that may predispose individuals to heart failure.



Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market Challenges and Hurdles:

The high costs associated with newly developed and innovative drugs to treat congestive heart failure can greatly limit patient access and affordability. These cutting-edge novel medications, especially emerging gene and cellular therapies, often come with very high price tags that place them out of reach for many patients. Without adequate insurance coverage or financial assistance programs, the astronomical costs can make critical heart failure drugs unattainable.

The lengthy, complex, and often stringent regulatory approval processes required for new congestive heart failure therapies to enter the market poses substantial barriers to innovation in this space. Extensive clinical trials, lengthy review periods, and challenges in garnering regulatory body approvals can significantly slow down the introduction of breakthrough treatments. Overcoming these regulatory hurdles requires immense time, resources, and perseverance on the part of drug manufacturers.

Carefully managing complex drug interactions and potential adverse side effects is absolutely crucial when congestive heart failure patients are on combination drug regimens. The multiple medications used to treat various aspects of heart failure can interact in problematic ways or compound each other's side effects. This requires vigilant monitoring and oversight to mitigate risks and ensure patient safety.

Check the detailed table of contents of the report @

https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/table-of-content/congestive-heart-failure-drugs-market

Segmentation of the Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market:

As per the Drug Class:

Beta Blockers class

ACE Inhibitors class

Diuretics class

Angiotensin 2 Receptor Blockers class

Aldosterone Antagonists class

Inotropes class

Other class



As per the Distribution Channel:

Retail Pharmacy

Online Pharmacy

Hospital Pharmacy



Regional Analysis of the Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market:

North America leads, driven by high prevalence, infrastructure, and R&D investments.

Europe follows closely with emphasis on cardiac care and research.

Asia Pacific shows rapid growth from increasing awareness and aging populations.

Emerging Latin America and Middle East & Africa markets have potential from improving healthcare access and spending.

Buy this premium research report 

https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/buy-now/0/3364

Key Players Congestive Heart Failure Drugs Market:

Novartis, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Merck, GlaxoSmithKline, Johnson & Johnson, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Boehringer Ingelheim, Amgen, Abbott, Sanofi, Mylan, Takeda, Bayer, Daiichi Sankyo

Browse More Research Topic on Healthcare Industries Related Reports:

The Global Conjunctivitis Treatment Market Size accounted for USD 4.4 Billion in 2022 and is estimated to achieve a market size of USD 6.4 Billion by 2032 growing at a CAGR of 3.9% from 2023 to 2032.

The Global Equine Surgery Market Size accounted for USD 2.8 Billion in 2022 and is estimated to achieve a market size of USD 4.9 Billion by 2032 growing at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2023 to 2032.

The Global Breast Cancer Liquid Biopsy Market Size accounted for USD 335 Million in 2022 and is projected to achieve a market size of USD 2,495 Million by 2032 growing at a CAGR of 22.5% from 2023 to 2032.

Browse Our Official Website Press release:

https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/press-releases/congestive-heart-failure-drugs-market

About Acumen Research and Consulting:

Acumen Research and Consulting is a global provider of market intelligence and consulting services to information technology, investment, telecommunication, manufacturing, and consumer technology markets. ARC helps investment communities, IT professionals, and business executives to make fact-based decisions on technology purchases and develop firm growth strategies to sustain market competition. With the team size of 100+ Analysts and collective industry experience of more than 200 years, Acumen Research and Consulting assures to deliver a combination of industry knowledge along with global and country level expertise.

For Latest Update Follow Us on Twitter , Instagram and LinkedIn

Contact Us:

Mr. Richard Johnson

Acumen Research and Consulting

USA: +13474743864

India: +918983225533

E-mail: sales@acumenresearchandconsulting.com
TOKYO, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM) Market is poised for robust global growth, driven by the accelerating adoption of cloud services and the pressing need to secure cloud-based assets.



As organizations increasingly migrate to the cloud, robust CSPM solutions become critical to safeguard sensitive data and systems in cloud environments. This is due to the evolving threat landscape, which includes new and sophisticated cyberattacks that are constantly being developed. Ongoing collaboration between cloud providers and security vendors will be key to address these cloud security challenges. Cloud service providers (CSPs) can help organizations by providing security features and controls that can be used to protect data and systems in the cloud. However, CSPs cannot provide all of the security that organizations need. Security vendors can provide additional security features and controls that can be used to further protect data and systems in the cloud. Ongoing collaboration between CSPs and security vendors will be essential to address the ever-evolving cloud security challenges. CSPs and security vendors need to work together to share information about new threats, develop new security solutions, and educate organizations about cloud security best practices. By working together, CSPs and security vendors can help organizations protect their data and systems in the cloud.

Cloud Security Posture Management Market Statistics and Key Highlights:

The Cloud Security Posture Management Market is projected to reach USD 12.6 billion by 2032, up from USD 4.6 billion in 2022, representing a CAGR of 10.8%.

North America led the market in 2022 with over 35% share, owing to early cloud adoption and stringent data regulations.

SaaS accounted for over 41% of market share in 2022.

Market growth is driven by emerging threats, regulatory compliance, and cloud complexity.

Request For Free Sample Report @ https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/request-sample/3363

Cloud Security Posture Management Market Report Coverage:

Market Cloud Security Posture Management Market Cloud Security Posture Management Market Size 2022 USD 4.6 Billion Cloud Security Posture Management Market Forecast 2032 USD 12.6 Billion Cloud Security Posture Management Market CAGR During 2023 - 2032 10.8% Cloud Security Posture Management Market Analysis Period 2020 - 2032 Cloud Security Posture Management Market Base Year 2022 Cloud Security Posture Management Market Forecast Data 2023 - 2032 Segments Covered By Component, By Cloud Service Model, By Enterprise Size, By Vertical, And By Geography Cloud Security Posture Management Market Regional Scope North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa Key Companies Profiled Aqua Security Software Ltd., Check Point Software Technologies Ltd, Armor Defense Inc., Palo Alto Networks, Inc., Lacework, Microsoft, McAfee, LLC, Cloudflare, Inc., Fortinet, Inc., CrowdStrike, Qualys, Inc., and NetApp, Inc. Report Coverage

Market Trends, Drivers, Restraints, Competitive Analysis, Player Profiling, Regulation Analysis

Cloud Security Posture Management Market Analysis:

The Cloud Security Posture Management Market is defined by the growing demand for proactive security and automation to identify and fix vulnerabilities as organizations adopt cloud. CSPM solutions continuously monitor and assess cloud infrastructures to enforce security policies and address threats. However, challenges include securing dynamic cloud environments and shortage of cybersecurity professionals with cloud expertise. Organizations are increasingly adopting cloud computing to improve agility and reduce costs. However, this shift to the cloud also creates new security challenges. Cloud environments are more complex than traditional on-premises environments, and they can be difficult to secure. CSPM solutions can help organizations to identify and fix vulnerabilities in their cloud environments, and to enforce security policies. However, there are a number of challenges that organizations face when implementing CSPM solutions. One challenge is that cloud environments are constantly changing, making it difficult to keep up with the latest threats. Another challenge is that there is a shortage of cybersecurity professionals with cloud expertise. This can make it difficult for organizations to find the people they need to implement and manage CSPM solutions. Despite these challenges, the CSPM market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. The demand for CSPM solutions is being driven by the growing adoption of cloud computing, the increasing sophistication of cyber attacks, and the shortage of cybersecurity professionals with cloud expertise.

Latest Cloud Security Posture Management Market Trends and Applications:

Cloud-native security solutions designed for cloud environments gain traction.

Zero trust models prioritizing identity management are integral to CSPM.

Integration with DevSecOps to embed security throughout development lifecycles.

Leveraging AI and ML for threat detection and response in the cloud.

Factors Driving Growth:

The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of cloud computing and remote work, which has increased the need for cloud security. Data regulations like GDPR and CCPA mandate strong data protection, which is driving investment in cloud security. Frequent cloud changes require continuous monitoring and automated remediation to ensure security. High-profile breaches have increased awareness of cloud risks and the demand for cloud security.

To elaborate further, the pandemic has forced many businesses to move their operations online, which has led to an increase in the use of cloud computing. Cloud computing allows businesses to access their data and applications from anywhere in the world, which is essential for businesses that have employees working remotely. However, cloud computing also introduces new security risks. Businesses need to take steps to secure their cloud-based data and applications.

Data regulations like GDPR and CCPA mandate strong data protection. GDPR is a European Union regulation that protects the personal data of individuals. CCPA is a California law that protects the personal data of California residents. These regulations require businesses to take steps to protect the personal data of their customers and employees. Cloud security can help businesses comply with these regulations.



Market Challenges and Hurdles:

Complex multi-cloud and hybrid cloud environments complicate unified security management because it can be difficult to keep track of all the different systems and data that are spread across multiple clouds. This can make it difficult to identify and respond to security threats.

Ensuring regional regulatory compliance requires significant resources because different regions have different regulations that businesses need to comply with. This can be a time-consuming and expensive process.

Cybersecurity professional shortage hinders effective CSPM implementation because there are not enough cybersecurity professionals to meet the demand for their services. This can make it difficult to find qualified people to implement and manage CSPM solutions.



Check the detailed table of contents of the report @

https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/table-of-content/cloud-security-posture-management-market

Classification of the Cloud Security Posture Management Market:

As per the Component:

Solution

Service

As per the Cloud Service Model:

IaaS

SaaS

PaaS



As per the Enterprise Size:

Large Enterprise

SMEs

As per the Vertical:

Defense/Government

Energy

Retail

Manufacturing

BFSI

Healthcare

IT & Telecom

Other

Regional Overview of the Cloud Security Posture Management Market:

North America leads, driven by data regulations, mature cybersecurity, and widespread cloud adoption.

Europe follows, emphasizing data privacy regulations and increasing cloud usage.

Asia Pacific sees rapid growth from digital transformation and emerging market cloud adoption.

Latin America and MEA show potential from growing cloud security awareness.

Buy this premium research report 

https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/buy-now/0/3363

List of Key Players Cloud Security Posture Management Market:

Palo Alto Networks, Microsoft Corp., Cisco Systems, Check Point, Trend Micro inc, Fortinet, Qualys, Zscaler, IBM Corp, CloudPassage, Armor Defense, Aqua Security ltd, DivvyCloud Corp., Orca Security, McAfee llc.

Browse More Research Topic on Technology Industries Related Reports:

The Global IoT in Aviation Market Size accounted for USD 6.7 Billion in 2022 and is projected to achieve a market size of USD 46.1 Billion by 2032 growing at a CAGR of 21.6% from 2023 to 2032.

The Global Network Analytics Market Size accounted for USD 2.5 Billion in 2022 and is projected to achieve a market size of USD 15.3 Billion by 2032 growing at a CAGR of 20.1% from 2023 to 2032.

The Global Underwater Wireless Communication Market size was valued at USD 6.6 Billion in 2022 and is projected to attain USD 49.5 Billion by 2032 mounting at a CAGR of 22.6% from 2023 to 2032.

Browse Our Official Website Press release:

https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/press-releases/cloud-security-posture-management-market

About Acumen Research and Consulting:

Acumen Research and Consulting is a global provider of market intelligence and consulting services to information technology, investment, telecommunication, manufacturing, and consumer technology markets. ARC helps investment communities, IT professionals, and business executives to make fact-based decisions on technology purchases and develop firm growth strategies to sustain market competition. With the team size of 100+ Analysts and collective industry experience of more than 200 years, Acumen Research and Consulting assures to deliver a combination of industry knowledge along with global and country level expertise.

For Latest Update Follow Us on Twitter , Instagram and LinkedIn

Contact Us:

Mr. Richard Johnson

Acumen Research and Consulting

USA: +13474743864

India: +918983225533

E-mail: sales@acumenresearchandconsulting.com
BOSTON and SEJONG CITY, South Korea and DAEJEON, South Korea, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- QuEra Computing, the leader in neutral-atom quantum computers, the Sejong Special Autonomous City, and Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) today announced an agreement to establish a quantum industry ecosystem in Sejong City, Korea. The three-way partnership was announced today during the 24th World Knowledge Forum Sejong session.



Sejong City is a thriving hub for cutting-edge research and development. The citys strategic location, situated near renowned academic institutions like KAIST, contributes to its reputation as a center of intellectual exploration and innovation. Based in Boston and built on pioneering research from nearby Harvard University and MIT, QuEra has developed the world's first publicly accessible quantum computer based on neutral atoms. It currently offers users up to 256 qubits on its Aquila-class machines and is actively working towards scaling up to much higher numbers. KAIST is the first and top science and technology university in Korea and is the gateway to advanced science and technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, and its graduates have been key players behind Koreas innovations.

The collaboration between the three organizations was spurred by the Korea-US Joint Statement on Quantum Information Science and Technology Cooperation , which was made during President Yoon Seok-yeol's visit to Boston in April. The subsequent hosting of Quantum Korea 2023 in June reflect the current policy direction aligned with the nation's commitment to nurturing the quantum industry. South Koreas vision is to emerge as a leading nation in the quantum economy, and as a part of that vision, Sejong City's plan is to foster core talents in quantum computing and technological development to synergize future national quantum projects.

Key aspects of the agreement highlight a number of areas of collaboration between QuEra, Sejong, and KAIST, including:

Building infrastructure and R&D for the quantum computing industry.

Developing educational programs to nurture local quantum experts.

Cooperating on international academic exchanges.

Conducting joint efforts to secure government public procurement projects.

Collaborating to raise awareness about the importance of quantum computing in academic and industrial environments.



"Quantum science and technology, which can be applied to computers, communications, and sensors, is seen as a game-changer that can rapidly transform future industries, said Sejong Mayor Choi Min-ho. However, it is still an emerging technology with no clear leader. With this business agreement with KAIST and QuEra, we will strive to establish strategic plans for the quantum industry, explore additional projects, and ensure that Sejong City leaps forward as a hub for quantum science and technology."

"We are thrilled to join forces with Sejong City and KAIST, two leaders in technological innovation and education. This partnership is more than a business agreement; it's a commitment to advancing the quantum frontier, said Alex Keesling, CEO, QuEra Computing, By combining QuEra's cutting-edge neutral-atom quantum computing capabilities with Sejong City's visionary infrastructure and KAIST's academic excellence, we are helping shape the future of quantum computing in South Korea and beyond. Together, we will unlock new possibilities in quantum science, from research and development to education and public awareness. This is an exciting moment for all involved, and we look forward to a future where quantum computing is not just an experimental endeavor but a transformative force across industries."

About QuEra Computing

QuEra Computing is the leader in commercializing quantum computers using neutral atomswidely recognized as a highly-promising quantum modality. Based in Boston and built on pioneering research from nearby Harvard University and MIT, QuEra operates the worlds largest publicly-accessible quantum computer, available over a major public cloud and for on-premises delivery. QuEra is developing large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers to tackle classically intractable problems, becoming the partner of choice in the quantum field. Simply put, QuEra is the best way to quantum. For more information, visit us at quera.com and follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn .

About KAIST

KAIST is a prestigious research university located in Daejeon, South Korea. Renowned for its exceptional academic programs and cutting-edge research, KAIST has established itself as a global science, engineering, and technology leader. The universitys mission is to cultivate talented individuals who can drive innovation and contribute to society through advanced scientific research and technological advancements.

About Sejong City

Sejong City is a remarkable and innovative urban development that showcases the countrys commitment to technological advancement and research excellence and is set to become the administrative capital of South Korea. Sejong City boasts state-of-the- art facilities, fostering collaboration among various industries and research disciplines. Its interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on fostering a vibrant R&D community make Sejong City a prime destination for scientists, entrepreneurs, and visionaries seeking to shape the future of technology and scientific discovery.

Media Contacts

Merrill Freund

press@quera.com

+1-415-577-8637

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/db550390-2c4f-4479-be91-fa15827d78bf
CALGARY, Alberta, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canada Company, a non-partisan charity devoted to supporting Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, veterans and their families, celebrated the opening of its new Alberta Chapter with an event in Calgary on September 6, 2023. The event brought local business and community leaders together with military members from Alberta and CAF leadership representing the 3rd Canadian Division.



Canada Company serves as a steadfast supporter and advocate of our men and women in uniform. It acts as an enduring bridge between the military and the Canadian public, building meaningful connections for increasing awareness and knowledge of the Canadian Armed Forces' value and impact.

By opening an Alberta Chapter, Canada Company is working to generate even greater support for its mission to support those who serve, have served or wish to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces, as well as their families, in a key region of the country.

At Canada Company our motto is Many Ways to Serve and were proud to help serve those who serve us, said Scott Burns, Canada Companys Alberta Chapter President. Im excited to take on this role as we expand our western Canada footprint, foster greater engagement and support more activities and events in Alberta.

By planting our flag in Wildrose Country, were pledging our support for Albertans who serve our country and building important bridges with community and business leaders, said Blake Goldring, Founder and Chair of Canada Company.

At Canada Company, our focus, work and initiatives are guided by three pillars:

Raising Awareness  We serve by helping the Canadian public understand and appreciate the CAFs service to our country.

 We serve by helping the Canadian public understand and appreciate the CAFs service to our country. Championing Education  We serve by educating civilians and business leaders about military matters and providing financial assistance.

 We serve by educating civilians and business leaders about military matters and providing financial assistance. Prioritizing Well-Being  We serve CAF members and their families with support programs that help them live happy, healthy lives.



Highlights:

Since 2007, we have awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to the children of those who died while serving in the Canadian Armed Forces.





to the children of those who died while serving in the Canadian Armed Forces. Since 2019, we have awarded $156,000 in bursaries to Junior Canadian Rangers to help support their education and an additional $25,000 in personal support to JCRs in need since 2021.





to Junior Canadian Rangers to help support their education and an additional to JCRs in need since 2021. Weve erected 32 LAV III monuments across the country  including in Calgary, Airdrie, Fort McMurray, Lacombe and Morinville  to honour the legacy of those who served in Afghanistan.





across the country  including in Calgary, Airdrie, Fort McMurray, Lacombe and Morinville  to honour the legacy of those who served in Afghanistan. Our military history education program has reached more than 150,000 secondary school students in Quebec and recently expanded into Ontario with the support of great partners like TV Ontario and BMO.



In addition, Canada Company hosts Day-in-the-Life events and other CAF Experience Days that allow business leaders to spend a day in the life of a soldier to gain greater appreciation for the valuable skills and capabilities our men and women in uniform bring to the table.

To help mark the opening of our Alberta Chapter, we are pleased to host a CAF Experience Day at Canadian Forces Base Edmonton on 12 October 2023.

To learn more about Canada Companys programs and initiatives, visit www.canadacompany.ca.

About Canada Company

Founded in 2006 by Canadian businessman Blake C. Goldring, C.M., M.S.M., CD, Canada Company is a non-partisan charity devoted to supporting Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, leaders, veterans, and their families. As an enduring bridge between the military and the Canadian public, we build meaningful connections to increase awareness and knowledge of the CAFs impact and value to all of Canada.

Canada Companys mission is to support CAF members and their families through our expansive network of Canadian community and business leaders. Our focus, work, and initiatives are guided by the following three pillars:

Raising Awareness  We serve by helping the Canadian public understand and appreciate the CAFs service to our country.

Championing Education  We serve by educating civilians and business leaders about military matters and providing financial assistance.

Prioritizing Well-Being  We serve CAF members and their families with support programs that help them live happy, healthy lives.



For more information, visit www.canadacompany.ca.

Media Contacts

Marie Claire Ouellette

Managing Director

Canada Company

marieclaire-ouellete@canadacompany.ca

647-801-5210

Michael Gotzamanis

Senior Manager, Corporate Communications

AGF Investments Inc.

michael.gotzamanis@agf.com

416-276-2081

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/852ffcc0-e140-4b43-9c6e-8a955a62379d

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f62cb487-3f8b-4597-aca4-90ba42e27e54
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vital Battery Metals Inc. (Vital or the Company) (CSE: VBAM | OTC: VBAMF | FRA: C0O) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the Phase 1 Exploration Program (the Program) at its Vent Copper Project (the Project) in the Alberni Mining Division, located in southwest British Columbia. The Program was executed in collaboration with Geomap Exploration Inc. and was aimed at acquiring essential data for the development of high-priority drill targets.



Over the course of four weeks in May and June 2023, the Program encompassed prospecting, mapping, sampling, and ground geophysical surveys. Target areas identified in the 2021 technical report were thoroughly investigated. Notably, special attention was given to the Vent-Ken showings, which had previously demonstrated high copper and silver values in sampling. A comprehensive sampling and mapping program over other claims blocks was also conducted to further evaluate these areas. Geological mapping and soil sampling efforts spanned the entire Project, focusing on regions where magnetic surveys indicated the presence of near-surface features.

Adrian Lamoureux, Vitals Chief Executive Officer and President commented, The Company is looking forward to advancing the Vent Copper Project as early results have shown favorable geology for a potential discovery of copper. We intend to continue exploring the target areas identified through previous sampling and surveying.

Vital remains committed to unlocking the full potential of the Project and will continue to provide updates on the progress of this exciting endeavor. The exploration data is being compiled by the Company and will be reported as soon as available.





Figure 1 - Vital Battery Metals Vent Target Areas

About the Vent Property

The Project encompasses approximately 1,561 hectares of crown land in the Alberni Mining Division located in British Columbia, Canada. A key feature of the property is an access forestry road that traverses through its center in a northwest-southeasterly direction, covering a substantial portion of the Project. Geologically, the claims are underlain by rocks of the Karmutsen Formation and Island intrusions. Regionally, the Karmutsen Formation consists of Pillow-basalt, pillow-breccia, basaltic lava, and minor tuff and limestone, ranging from Upper Triassic to Lower Jurassic in age. However, the volcanic rocks within the property predominantly exhibit andesitic composition, characterized by shades of grey-green to dark green. These rocks are generally very fine-grained, occasionally medium-grained, massive, and commonly uniform in appearance. Alterations such as chlorite and epidote were observed in some areas, alongside veins and veinlets of milky quartz Pyrite is highly prevalent and may constitute up to 15-20% of the rock composition. Amygdaloidal basalt, sporadic chalcopyrite occurrences, and altered mafic and flow rocks have been reported in select regions. The Island intrusions include Quartz-Monzonite, Hornblende-Monzonite, Quartz-Diorite, and Diorite, with quartz-monzonite and quartz-diorite being the dominant rock types.

Marketing Agreement

The Company also announces that it has entered into an agreement (the Agreement) with MIC Market Information & Content Publishing GmbH (MIC) (address: Gerhart-Hauptmann-Str. 49b 51379 Leverkusen; email: contact@micpublishing.de) to provide marketing services for a term of 6 months, commencing September 18, 2023 (the Term).

MIC is an independent company which will, as appropriate, provide project management and consulting for an online marketing campaign, coordinate marketing actions, maintain and optimize AdWords campaigns, adapt AdWords bidding strategies, optimize AdWords ads and create and optimize landing pages (the Services). The promotional activity will occur by email, Facebook, and Google.

Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company will compensate MIC 150,000, with an option to increase the advertising budget up to 250,000 during the Term. The Company will not issue any securities to MIC as compensation for its marketing services. As of the date hereof, to the Companys knowledge, MIC (including its directors and officers) does not own any securities of the Company and has an arms length relationship with the Company.

Qualified Person

The technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Afzaal Pirzada, P.Geo., and a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About Vital Battery Metals Inc.

Vital Battery Metals Inc. (CSE: VBAM |OTC: VBAMF | FRA: C0O) is a mineral exploration company dedicated to the development of strategic projects comprised of battery, base and precious metals in stable jurisdictions. The Company is working to advance its Schofield Lithium, Dickson Lake Lithium, Sting Copper and Vent Copper-Gold Projects.

The Sting Copper Project covers approximately 12,700 hectares and hosts multiple historic Newfoundland and Labrador Government documented mineral occurrences and is located within a 50 km corridor known for significant volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS), copper quartz vein lode and low sulphation epithermal gold showings. The Vent Copper-Gold project covers 1,562 hectares in British Columbia. Vital continues to evaluate value-add assets to bolster its project portfolio.

The Schofield Lithium Project covers 8,824 hectares and is adjacent to Brunswick Explorations Hearst Lithium Project. The Schofield Lithium Project is located ~60 km south of Hearst, Ontario. The Dickson Lake Lithium Project covers 464 single-cell mining claims at approximately 9,780 hectares and is near a Brunswick Exploration Lithium Project, Imagine Lithiums Jackpot Deposit and Rock Techs Georgia Lake Deposit.

For more information, visit www.vitalbatterymetals.com

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Adrian Lamoureux

Chief Executive Officer, Director

+1 (604) 229-9772

info@vitalbatterymetals.com

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, including statements regarding the Project acquisition bringing a low-risk opportunity, the Company building a strong battery metals portfolio with low-risk opportunities that positively impact the Company and its shareholders and the Company providing an initial work plan are "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the Project and its mineralization potential; statements with respect to the provision of the Services by MIC; the Companys objectives, goals or future plans with respect to the Project; the commencement of drilling or exploration programs in the future; the anticipated results of the Program. These forward-looking statements reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company based on information currently available to it. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including those detailed from time to time in filings made by the Company with securities regulatory authorities, which may cause actual outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/af43f5cb-9e39-4b9e-a437-b9b37941e162
Wilmington, Delaware, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Australia Kaolin Market was valued at US$ 36.8 million in 2022 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR of over 5.2% over the forecast period of 2023-2030, according to the latest market report by RationalStat

Market Definition, Market Scope, and Report Overview

Kaolin, commonly known as china clay, is a naturally occurring clay mineral that is mostly made of the mineral kaolinite. It is a white, soft, fine-grained clay that is commonly found near the Earth's surface. Because of its unique characteristics, kaolin has a wide range of industrial and commercial applications.

Kaolin is an important element in the manufacture of paper and paperboard. The need for kaolin is increasing in tandem with the demand for paper-based packaging and printing products. Kaolin has become more accessible and cost-effective as processing and refining processes have advanced, promoting its use in a broader range of applications.

According to a deep-dive market assessment by RationalStat, the Australia kaolin market has been analyzed on the basis of market segments, including application, process and geography/regions (including Western Australia, Southern Australia, Eastern Australia, Northern and Central Australia) . The report also offers Australia and regional market sizing for the historical period of 2019-2022 and the forecast period of 2023-2030.

. The report also offers Australia and regional market sizing for the historical period of 2019-2022 and the forecast period of 2023-2030. Market intelligence for the Australia kaolin market covers market sizes on the basis of market value (US$/EUR Million) and volume (Tons) by various products/services/equipment, demand assessment across the key regions, customer sentiments, price points, cost structures, margin analysis across the value chain, financial assessments, historical and forecast data, key developments across the industry, import-export data, trade overview, components market by leading companies, etc.

In addition, the long-term sector and products/services 10-year outlook and its implications on the Australia kaolin market. It also includes the industry's current state  Production Levels, Capacity Utilization, Tech quotient, etc. Key information will be manufacturing capacity by country, installed base, import volumes, market size, key players, market size, dynamics, market data, insights, etc.

Request A Customization- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/australia-kaolin-market/#tab-ux_global_tab

Australia Kaolin Market: Segmental and Market Share Analysis

On the basis of application, paper segment accounted for the dominant kaolin market share in 2022 due to the high demand for paper from packaging and printing applications.

On the basis of process, in 2019, the water-washed segment held the biggest share. The reduced impurity levels and higher brightness kaolin produced by this process can be linked to the rise of this industry.





Report Synopsis

Report Metrics Details Base Year 2022 Forecast Period 2023-2030 Base Year Market Size US$ 36.8 million Market Size Forecast US$ 55.2 million Growth Rate 5.2% Key Market Drivers Growing ceramics industry

Expanding cosmetic industry

Rising construction activities Companies Profiled Imerys S.A

Thiele Kaolin Company

WA Kaolin Limited

Active Minerals International, LLC

Altech Batteries Ltd

EICL Limited

Andromeda Metals Limited

W. R. Grace & Co.

KaMin LLC

Explore more about this report- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/australia-kaolin-market/#tab-ux_global_tab

Competition Analysis and Market Structure

These players adopt various strategies in order to reinforce their market share and gain a competitive edge over other competitors in the market. Mergers & acquisitions, partnerships and collaborations, and product launches are some of the strategies followed by industry players. Some of the key developments in the Australia kaolin market include,

In April 2023, Imerys and Sibelco formed a cooperation with Carlton Power to develop a Langage Green Hydrogen plant in Devon. The 10MW hydrogen hub in Carlton is scheduled to open in 2025. This project seeks to give green hydrogen to both kaolin-producing firms in order to help them achieve their sustainability goals.

In May 2022, Thiele Kaolin Company announced a 9% price increase for all product categories, beginning July 1, 2022, as a result of the current global economic climate, which has increased the costs of manufacturing operations globally.

Some of the prominent players and suppliers operating and contributing significantly to the Australia kaolin market growth include Imerys S.A, Thiele Kaolin Company, WA Kaolin Limited, Active Minerals International, LLC, Altech Batteries Ltd, EICL Limited, Andromeda Metals Limited, W. R. Grace & Co., and KaMin LLC, among others.

Get A Free Sample- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/australia-kaolin-market/#tab-ux_global_tab

RationalStat has segmented the Australia kaolin market based on application, process and region

Australia Kaolin Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Tons) and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Application Paper Ceramics Prints & Coatings Fiber Glass Paper Cosmetics Others

Australia Kaolin Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Tons) and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Process Water-washed Airfloat Calcined Delaminated Surface-Modified

Australia Kaolin Market Value (US$ Million), Volume (Tons) and Market Share (2019-2030) Analysis by Region Australia Kaolin Market

Western Australia Southern Australia Eastern Australia Northern and Central Australia



For more information about this report- https://store.rationalstat.com/store/australia-kaolin-market/#tab-ux_global_tab

Key Questions Answered in the Kaolin Report:

What will be the market value of the Australia kaolin market by 2030?

What is the market size of the Australia kaolin market?

What are the market drivers of the Australia kaolin market?

What are the key trends in the Australia kaolin market?

Which is the leading region in the Australia kaolin market?

What are the major companies operating in the Australia kaolin market?

What are the market shares by key segments in the Australia kaolin market?

Explore Our Trending Reports

Research Methodology

RationalStat has developed a state-of-the-art research methodology to crunch numbers and provide the best possible real-time insights to clients. We combine a varied range of industry experience, data analytics, and experts viewpoint to create a research methodology for market sizing and forecasting.

RationalStat combines a mix of secondary sources as well as primary research to assess the market size and develop a forecast. Key steps involved in accurately deriving the market numbers are:

Defining the problem by understanding the type of market and data required by the client.

Data gathering and collection through relevant paid databases, publicly available sources, company reports, annual reports, surveys, and interviews.

Formulating a hypothesis to create market numbers, forecasts, influencing factors, and their relevance.

Evaluating and analyzing the data by referring to data sources utilized and leveraged.

Validating, interpreting, and finalizing the data by combining the details gathered from primary and secondary sources with the help of experienced analysts.

Download Key Insights and Market Data - Raise a Query

About RationalStat LLC

RationalStat is an end-to-end Australia market intelligence and consulting company that provides comprehensive market research reports, customized strategy, and consulting studies. The company has sales offices in India, Mexico, and the US to support Australia and diversified businesses. The company has over 80 consultants and industry experts, developing more than 850 market research and industry reports for its report store annually.

RationalStat has strategic partnerships with leading data analytics and consumer research companies to cater to the clients needs. Additional services offered by the company include consumer research, country reports, risk reports, valuations and advisory, financial research, due diligence, procurement and supply chain research, data analytics, and analytical dashboards.

Contact

RationalStat LLC

Kimberly Shaw,

Content and Press Manager

sales@rationalstat.com

US Phone: +1 302 803 5429

UK Phone: +44 203-287-1245
Hong Kong: CE meets ASEAN Secretary-General

Chief Executive John Lee met the Secretary-General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and senior government officials from Belt & Road countries on September 13 and 14, who are visiting Hong Kong for the eighth Belt & Road Summit.

At the meeting with Republic of Kazakhstan Minister of Trade & Integration Arman Shakkaliyev yesterday, Mr Lee said that Kazakhstan is one of Hong Kong's most important trading partners in Central Asia.

He encouraged more Kazakhstani enterprises to partner with Hong Kong enterprises and make use of the city's advantages to venture into the Mainland and other markets.

This was followed by a meeting with General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers of Saudi Arabia Advisor Fahd bin Abdulmohsan Al-Rasheed.

Noting that the formal negotiations on an Investment Promotion & Protection Agreement between Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia have commenced since his visit to Saudi Arabia in February, Mr Lee expressed hope for the early completion of the relevant work such that the economic and trade co-operation between the two places would scale new heights.

Mr Lee then met ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn who he was pleased to see again after his visit to Jakarta, Indonesia, in July.

He thanked Mr Kao for his continuous support for Hong Kong's accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will maintain close communication with the ASEAN Secretariat on relevant issues.

Mr Lee also held talks with Egypt's Minister of International Cooperation Rania A Al-Mashat.

He pointed out that with Hong Kong's advantages as a professional services and fund-raising platform, the city can contribute to Belt & Road projects in Egypt, including the Central Business District project in Egypt's new administrative capital.

The Chief Executive also said he looks forward to strengthening co-operation between the two places in order to explore more new opportunities.

Meeting with Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs & Trade Peter Szijjarto, Mr Lee noted that Hungary is Hong Kong's seventh largest trading partner among the European Union member states, with bilateral merchandise trade between Hong Kong and Hungary amounting to HK$17.8 billion last year, adding that the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to promote Hong Kong's advantages and opportunities to more Hungarian enterprises.

The Chief Executive also hosted a networking dinner at Government House yesterday evening to discuss promoting the Belt & Road Initiative. Guests included representatives of political, business and professional sectors of Hong Kong, Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong SAR Deputy Commissioner Fang Jianming, Mr Kao, senior government officials from Belt & Road countries who came to Hong Kong to attend the summit, and consuls-general and honorary consuls of various countries in Hong Kong.

This morning, Mr Lee met Vietnamese Minister of Planning & Investment Nguyen Chi Dung and thanked Vietnam for its continued support for Hong Kong's accession request to the RCEP.

Mr Lee pointed out that Vietnam is Hong Kong's seventh largest trading partner, noting that Vietnam's economy has grown significantly in recent years.

He encouraged more enterprises in Vietnam to co-operate with their counterparts in Hong Kong and make good use of the city's advantages as the most open international city in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) to explore the immense investment opportunities in the Mainland.

The Chief Executive held talks with United Arab Emirates Minister of Economy Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri this afternoon where he highlighted that the UAE is Hong Kong's largest trading partner in the Middle East, adding that he believes there is much room for forging economic and trade ties between the two places.

He also hoped that more enterprises in the UAE would capitalise on Hong Kong's distinctive advantages under one country, two systems and its world-class infrastructure and professional talent to seize the opportunities brought about by the Belt & Road Initiative and the GBA development.

Mr Lee added that the eighth Belt & Road Summit concluded successfully with fruitful achievements.

Hong Kong will continue to leverage its distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world, proactively integrate into national development, and consolidate and develop its status as an international city, with the view to continuously contributing to the promotion of the development of the Belt & Road Initiative.

This story has been published on: 2023-09-14. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
/THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES/

VANCOUVER, Sept. 13, 2023 - September 14, 2023 - Sydney, Australia

Patriot Battery Metals Inc. (the "Company" or "Patriot") (TSXV: PMET) (ASX: PMT) (OTCQX: PMETF) (FSE: R9GA) announced today an amendment to a matter which is to be voted upon at its annual general and special shareholder meeting scheduled to be held on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 (the "Meeting").

In its information circular dated August 11, 2023 (the "Circular"), sent to shareholders of Patriot in connection with the Meeting, the Company proposed to put to such shareholders a resolution approving the Company's amended Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan (the "Plan"), as more particularly set out in the Circular.

Following distribution of the Circular and discussions with various stakeholders, the Company now believes it would be preferable to remove the proposed provision in the Plan providing that certain awards to "Restricted Participants" under the Plan be settled in shares purchased on the market, initially implemented to accommodate ASX requirements which were not applicable to the Company prior to its ASX listing in late 2022. With this deletion, the Plan for which annual renewal approval is sought, as required by the rules of the TSX-V, will be substantially similar to the Plan approved at the last annual general meeting of shareholders held on March 3, 2023, with certain changes which are largely administrative in nature.

At the Meeting, the Company intends to propose to shareholders, for their consideration and approval, a version of the resolution contained in the Circular, amended as follows (underlined language is new):

1. The amended Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan (the "Amended Omnibus Plan"), as further amended in the manner described in the press release of the Company dated September 13, 2023, such further amended Amended Omnibus Plan as filed on SEDAR+ on or about September 13, 2023, and the reservation for issuance thereunder of a maximum aggregate number of common shares of the Company equal to ten percent (10%) of the Company's issued and outstanding Shares from time to time, is hereby confirmed, ratified and approved as the omnibus equity plan of the Company and the Company has the ability to grant Options and other awards under the Amended Omnibus Plan; []

Other than the deletion of the provisions related to "Restricted Participants" contained in Article 9 of the originally proposed amended Plan, and consequential amendments resulting from the deletion of such Article 9, all other changes described in the Circular relating to the Plan remain unchanged.

As a result of the deletion of Article 9 and its associated provisions, Patriot will not be able to grant awards to "Restricted Participants" under the Plan to be settled in shares purchased on the market. Consequently, Patriot will not be able to rely on the exception in ASX Listing Rule 10.16(b) to the general rule in ASX Listing Rule 10.14 requiring shareholder approval for the issue of securities to directors (or their associates) under an employee incentive scheme.

About Patriot Battery Metals Inc.

Patriot Battery Metals Inc. is a hard-rock lithium exploration company focused on advancing its district-scale 100% owned Corvette Property located in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Quebec, Canada, and proximal to regional road and powerline infrastructure. The Corvette Property hosts the CV5 Spodumene Pegmatite with a maiden inferred mineral resource estimate of 109.2 Mt at 1.42% Li2O and 160 ppm Ta2O5 (at a cut-off of 0.40% Li2O) and ranks as the largest lithium pegmatite resource in the Americas, and one of the top 10 largest lithium pegmatite resources in the world. Additionally, the Corvette Property hosts multiple other spodumene pegmatite clusters that remain to be drill tested, as well as more than 20 km of prospective trend that remain to be assessed.

This news release has been approved by the Board of Directors,

"BLAIR WAY"

Blair Way, President, CEO, & Director

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking statements and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "will", "may", "should", "anticipate", "expects" and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include the results of further exploration and testing, and other risks detailed from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators, available at www.sedarplus.ca and www.asx.com.au. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward-looking statements as expressly required by applicable law.

No securities regulatory authority or stock exchange has reviewed nor accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the content of this news release.

SOURCE Patriot Battery Metals Inc.
Vancouver - Sept 14, 2023 - International Metals Mining Corp. (the "Company or International Metals") (TSXV:IMM) (OTC:CYNXF) (FSE:C2YD) is pleased to announce that it has applied to list its common shares ("Common Shares") on the NEO Exchange Inc. (operating as Cboe Canada) ("CBOE"), a tier one senior Canadian stock exchange ("Listing").

Listing on CBOE is subject to the Company fulfilling listing requirements. In connection with the anticipated migration to CBOE, the Company will, upon receipt of all required approvals, arrange for the delisting of its Common Shares from the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV"). This anticipated transition is not expected to impact current investors' ability to trade Common Shares of International Metals, and the Company notes that its Common Shares continue to trade on the TSXV pending the intended migration.

"We are very excited about the Company's trajectory and the potential to have our shares listed on a tier one senior Canadian stock exchange. On the operational side, our goal is to continue to advance our drill-ready copper-gold porphyry property in Peru, and for our experienced Brazilian team to start exploring our newly-acquired mineral claims in Brazil's Lithium Valley", stated Brian Thurston, President. "Sigma Lithium Corp.'s announcement yesterday(1), that it has received multiple strategic proposals for its assets, including the Brazilian company Sigma Mineracao (Sigma Brazil), as well as for the Grota do Cirilo project, located just 11 kilometers from International Metals' mineral claims, is just one more confirmation from leading global companies that International Metals is in the right place at the right time."

On May 4, 2023, the Company acquired an option to secure a 65% right, title and interest in and to mining claims in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil which comprise 12 claims totaling 21,136.73 hectares of surface area (see press release dated May 4, 2023). On July 12, 2023, the Company announced that it had entered into a mining claims purchase agreement to which it would acquire a 60% right, title, and interest to a further 26 mineral claims totaling 39,596.63 hectares in Minas Gerais, Brazil (see press release dated July 12, 2023) (the "Second Acquisition").

Once the Second Acquisition completes, the Company would control 38 mineral rights totalling 60,733.36 hectares strategically located in Brazil's Lithium Valley (Figure 1), approximately 11 kilometers east from both Sigma Lithium Corporation's ("Sigma") Groto do Cirilo Project, and Lithium Iconic Inc.'s Itinga Project, and 13 kilometers east of Atlas Lithium Corp.'s ("Atlas Lithium") Neves Project. Sigma's properties are in the municipalities of Aracuai and Itinga, approximately 450 kilometres northeast of the state capital of Belo Horizonte. Sigma holds 27 mineral rights in four properties spread over 19,100 hectares, which include nine past-producing lithium mines. Atlas Lithium controls approximately 24,233 hectares of mineral rights in Lithium Valley.



Click Image To View Full Size

Figure 1

The Panteria copper-gold porphyry project (the "Project") is located approximately 210 kilometres southeast of Lima, Peru, in the Huancavelica department, and is considered highly prospective for both copper-gold ("Cu-Au") porphyry-style mineralization and high-level gold-silver (Au-Ag) epithermal mineralization. Approximately US $5 million has been spent to date on the Project that has several untested exploration targets.

The Project is composed of several mineral concessions covering an area of 2,700 hectares and is believed to be situated in the northern extension of the Southern Coastal porphyry belt. The project has seen extensive surface sampling, mapping programs, and a geophysical program in 2014. First Quantum Minerals Ltd. ("First Quantum") explored the area from 2016 to 2018. A total of 8,699 metres were drilled on the Project by First Quantum in 11 holes that encountered porphyry-style mineralization and alteration over a minimum 1,300-metre horizontal extent and over a 700-metre vertical extent in the subsurface. Five main mineralized zones were identified on the Project: the Kisosko, El Corral, NW Corral, La Quebrada and Renaldo zones. To date the El Corral and NW Corral zones have proven the most prospective for Cu-Au porphyry mineralization while the Renaldo and Kiosko zones are considered high-level Au-Ag precious metal targets and have not been drill tested.

The untested Renaldo zone is considered a gold-silver precious metal target, located 4.5 kilometres east of the main Panteria zone. Since 2014, a total 323 rock samples have been taken from this prospective zone covering an area measuring one by two kilometres. Ronaldo zone sampling and mapping encountered gold and silver mineralization in a high-sulphidation lithocap that is hosted in shallow-dipping volcanics at higher elevations.

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release was reviewed and approved by Brian Thurston, who is a "Qualified Person" for purposes of National Instrument 43-101, and is the Company's Chief Executive Officer and a Director.

(1)Sigma Lithium press release Sept 13, 2023

About International Metals Mining Corp.

International Metals Mining Corp. is a Canadian company engaged in the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral properties focusing on battery metals and mineral assets. The Company has acquired assets in some of the world's most prolific mining jurisdictions with a copper-gold porphyry property in Peru and with very prospective lithium properties in Brazil's growing lithium provinces.

International Metals Mining Corp.

Per: "Brian Thurston"

Brian Thurston

President and CEO

Tel: +1 778 928-6565

Statement regarding forward-looking information

This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur and include statements relating to: approval from CBOE, if it is to be received at all; ?completion of the Listing (including fulling CBOE's listing requirements), and the timing thereof, if it is to occur at all; the delisting the Company's Common Shares on the TSXV and the timing thereof; anticipated benefits in connection with the Listing; the completion of the Second Acquisition, and any new mineral discoveries on the Company's properties within Brazil's Lithium Valley, and the timing thereof. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration successes on the Company's properties, and continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions, laws in the jurisdictions where the Company operates. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulations Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Copyright (c) 2023 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
VANCOUVER, Sept. 14, 2023 - Almaden Minerals Ltd. ("Almaden" or "the Company"; TSX: AMM; NYSE American: AAU) is pleased to report that the Mexican Federal Administrative Court (the "Court") has granted a provisional injunction to Almaden's Mexican subsidiary, Minera Gorrion ("MG"), relating to the submission issued by Mexico's Ministry of the Economy ("Economia") to the district court (the "District Court") which is overseeing the implementation of the February 2022 decision of Mexico's Supreme Court ("SCJN") requiring indigenous consultations prior to the granting of mineral titles to the Ixtaca project (see Company press releases of February 22 and April 13, 2023).



Economia's submission to the District Court ("Economia Submission") was made in February 2023 and aims to deny the two mineral title applications to the Ixtaca project which were first made by Almaden in 2002 and 2008, and which in turn led to the grant of mineral titles in 2003 and 2009, respectively. As previously reported, these mineral titles were reduced to application status as a result of the February 2022 decision of the SCJN.

The Economia Submission claims that, despite Economia's previous statements to the contrary, its acceptance of the mineral title applications and its grant of the mineral titles in 2003 and 2009, the applications contain technical faults which preclude the grant of the mineral claims. The Economia Submission therefore seeks to deny the grant of the mineral claims regardless of the indigenous consultation ordered by the SCJN and welcomed by both the Company and surrounding communities. The Economia Submission was accepted by the District Court as complying with the February 2022 SCJN decision (see press release of April 13, 2023), and this District Court decision is currently being appealed by the Company (the "Compliance Appeal").

In the meantime, MG initiated separate legal proceedings in the Mexican Federal Administrative Court (the "Legal Proceedings") to contest the Economia Submission on technical and procedural grounds. The Court has admitted the Legal Proceedings and, as a first step, has granted a provisional injunction in favour of MG. This provisional injunction prevents Economia from releasing the mineral rights covered by the Company's mineral title applications while the Legal Proceedings are ongoing. It is expected that the Court will decide on the grant of a permanent injunction within the coming weeks, which if received would continue in effect until the Court has ruled on the revocation of the Economia Submission.

The Court also stated that the Legal Proceedings would be subject to the outcome of the Company's Compliance Appeal, noting that if the Compliance Appeal determines that the Economia Submission does not comply with the February 2022 SCJN decision, then the legal status of the Company's mineral title applications would change. On the other hand, if the Compliance Appeal determines that the Economia Submission does comply with the February 2022 SCJN decision, then the Legal Proceedings shall continue. Almaden does not have a timeline for the Compliance Appeal or a definitive ruling on the Legal Proceedings.

Duane Poliquin, Chair of Almaden, stated, "We filed this complaint with the Federal Administrative Court back in March and despite the long delay we are encouraged that we may finally have the opportunity to explain why we believe the Economia Submission is a seriously flawed document."

About Almaden

Almaden Minerals Ltd. discovered the Ixtaca deposit in Puebla State, Mexico, in 2010. Almaden's interest in the Ixtaca project is subject to a 2.0% NSR royalty held by Almadex Minerals Ltd. The Ixtaca deposit hosts a proven and probable reserve containing 1.38 million ounces of gold and 85.1 million ounces of silver (73.1 million tonnes grading 0.59 g/t Au and 36.3 g/t Ag). A report titled "Ixtaca Gold-Silver Project, Puebla State, Mexico NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Feasibility Study", which was prepared in accordance with NI 43-101, is available under the Company's profile on SEDAR and on the Company's website.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

"J. Duane Poliquin"_____

J. Duane Poliquin

Chair

Almaden Minerals Ltd.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain of the statements and information in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian provincial securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements or information. Forward-looking statements or information in this news release relate to, among other things, the timing and nature of any future rulings of the Court.

These forward-looking statements and information reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant legal, regulatory, business, operational and economic uncertainties and contingencies, and such uncertainty generally increases with longer-term forecasts and outlook. These assumptions include: stability and predictability in Mexico's consultation process with indigenous communities and judicial decisions thereon; stability and predictability in Mexico's mineral tenure, mining, environmental and agrarian laws and regulations, as well as their application and judicial decisions thereon; continued respect for the rule of law in Mexico; prices for gold, silver and base metals remaining as estimated; currency exchange rates remaining as estimated; availability of funds; capital, decommissioning and reclamation estimates; mineral reserve and resource estimates; prices for energy inputs, labour, materials, supplies and services (including transportation); no labour-related disruptions; all necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals being received in a timely manner; the ability to secure and maintain title and ownership to properties and the surface rights necessary for operations; community support in the Ixtaca Project; and the ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive.

The Company cautions the reader that forward-looking statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release. Such risks and other factors include, among others, risks related to: Mexico's consultation process with indigenous communities and potential litigation in respect thereof; political risk in Mexico; crime and violence in Mexico; corruption; environmental risks, including environmental matters under Mexican laws and regulations; impact of environmental impact assessment requirements on the Company's planned exploration and development activities on the Ixtaca Project; certainty of mineral title and the outcome of litigation; community relations; governmental regulations and the ability to obtain necessary licences and permits; risks related to mineral properties being subject to prior unregistered agreements, transfers or claims and other defects in title; changes in mining, environmental or agrarian laws and regulations and changes in the application of standards pursuant to existing laws and regulations which may increase costs of doing business and restrict operations; as well as those factors discussed the section entitled "Risk Factors" in Almaden's Annual Information Form and Almaden's latest Form 20-F on file with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission in Washington, D.C. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could affect the Company and may cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements or information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that our forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. Except as required by law, the Company does not assume any obligation to release publicly any revisions to on forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Contact Information:

Almaden Minerals Ltd.

Tel. 604.689.7644

Email: info@almadenminerals.com

http://www.almadenminerals.com/
Vancouver, September 14, 2023 - European Energy Metals (TSXV: FIN) (OTC Pink: EUEMF) (FSE: W28) ("European Energy" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the addition of Rick Trotman to its Advisory Board as the Company continues its growth through on-going exploration of its 5,000 square kilometre Lithium-Cesium-Tantalum ("LCT") and Rare Earth Element ("REE") Finnish Pegmatite Project, in central and southern Finland.

Rick Trotman is a professional geologist with a broad range of experience within the mining industry, having worked in both buy-side and sell-side positions as well as technically focused responsibilities with major mining companies such as Barrick Gold, Meridian Gold, and Yamana Gold. Rick is currently the CEO of Barksdale Resources Corp. and a director at Kenorland Minerals Ltd and Kingfisher Metals Corp. Previously he was with Resource Capital Funds, a leading mining-focused private equity firm, where he was involved in executing a broad range of investments spanning the precious, base and minor metal spaces and was also responsible for establishing and managing the firm's portfolio of exploration investments. He holds a Master of Science in Economic Geology from the University of Nevada Reno and a Bachelor of Science in Geology from Washington State University.

"Rick's varied background is a real asset to European Energy Metals with significant technical experience with both junior and senior mining companies, as well as significant experience from the financing side," commented European Energy Metals CEO Jeremy Poirier.

About the Finland Pegmatite Project

The Finland Pegmatite Project consists of ten exploration concessions in central and Northern Finland and one exploration concession in southern Finland. These reservations cover a total area of over 5,000 square kilometres and are focused on Lithium-Cesium-Tantalum or LCT pegmatite complexes located within the Jarvi-Pohjanmaa and Seinajoki lithium-permissive tracts as defined by the Geological Survey of Finland (GTK). Four of the reservations (Nabba, Lappajarvi West, Lappajarvi East and Kaatiala) lie immediately adjacent to, and to the south of, Keliber Oy's spodumene mine development project in the Kaustinen district.

Keliber Oy is a consortium, comprised of Sibanye-Stillwater (79%), Finnish Minerals Group (20%) and Finnish shareholders (1%). A Definitive Feasibility Study by Hatch dated June 14, 2018 states a JORC Code 2012 compliant Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource of 9.47 million tonnes at a grade of 1.16% Li 2 O.2

European Energy cautions investors the presence of lithium mineralization at Keliber Oy is not necessarily indicative of similar mineralization at the Nabba concession.

1. J.B.Selway, F.W.Breaks and A.G.Tindle. (2005) A Review of Rare-Element (Li-Cs-Ta) Pegmatite Exploration Techniques for the Superior Province, Canada, and Large Worldwide Tantalum Deposits. Exploration and Mining Geology, Volume 14 No.s 1-4, pp. 1-30.

2. Definitive Feasibility Study - Executive Summary June 14, 2018 by Hatch. http://mb.cision.com/Public/14755/2547948/b83a99f0255413fe.pdf

R. Tim Henneberry, P.Geo. (BC), a Director of European Energy Metals Corp., is the Qualified Person who has reviewed and approved the technical content disclosed in this release.

About European Energy Metals Corp.

European Energy Metals Corp. is a junior mining company currently focussed on the Lithium-Cesium-Tantalum Finnish Pegmatite Project in central Finland. Governing bodies in Europe and Finland are legislating environmentally friendly and energy independent laws and policies. One of the key components is access to REE and, specifically, lithium. The company's concessions are located within 11 miles of the Keliber under construction which is expected to begin production in H2 2025.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Jeremy Poirier, CEO

Telephone: 604-722-9842

Email: info@europeanenergymetals.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking information is typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. Such statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the future results of operations, performance and achievements of the Company, including the presence of lithium mineralization at, and the exploration and development potential of, the Finland Pegmatite Project. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that such expectations will prove to be correct. All such forward-looking information is based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of their experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management believes are appropriate in the circumstances. This information, however, is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from this forward-looking information include the costs of any anticipated work programs and the ability to fund such costs, required approvals in connection with any work programs and the ability to obtain such approvals, risks inherent in exploration as well as those described under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Company's most recently filed MD&A. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or revise the forward-looking information contained in this news release, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180577
Sudbury, September 14, 2023 - Magna Mining Inc. (TSXV: NICU) (OTCQB: MGMNF) (FSE: 8YD) ("Magna" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to its news release dated July 31st, 2023, it has filed a Preliminary Economic Assessment, in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, for the Company's 100%-owned Crean Hill project.

The technical report, titled "Preliminary Economic Assessment of the Crean Hill Project, Sudbury, Ontario Canada", and dated September 13, 2023 (with an effective date of July 31, 2023), was prepared for the Company by Stantec Consulting Ltd. (the "Technical Report"). A copy of the Technical Report is available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under the Company's issuer profile.

About Magna Mining Inc.

Magna is an exploration and development company focused on nickel, copper and PGM projects in the Sudbury region of Ontario, Canada. The Company's flagship assets are the past producing Shakespeare and Crean Hill mines. The Shakespeare Mine is a feasibility stage project which has major permits for the construction of a 4,500 tonne per day open pit mine, processing plant and tailings storage facility and is surrounded by a contiguous 180km2 prospective land package. Crean Hill is a past producing nickel, copper and PGM mine with an updated technical report dated August 2022. Additional information about the Company is available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and on the Company's website (www.magnamining.com).

For further information, please contact:

Jason Jessup

Chief Executive Officer

or

Paul Fowler, CFA

Senior Vice President

Tel: 416 356 8165



Email: info@magnamining.com

Cautionary Statement

This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" as defined in applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts and are subject to several risks and uncertainties beyond the Company's control, including the conclusions and recommendations set out in the Technical Report and statements regarding the production at the Shakespeare and Crean Hill Mines and the economic and operational potential of the Shakespeare and Crean Hill Mines. Resource exploration and development is highly speculative, characterized by several significant risks, which even a combination of careful evaluation, experience and knowledge may not eliminate. All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180624
VANCOUVER, Sept. 14, 2023 - Kainantu Resources Ltd. ("KRL" or the "Company") (TSXV: KRL) (FSE: 6J0) is pleased to announce that it has closed the definitive agreement with Harmony Gold (PNG) Exploration Limited ("HGEL"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited ("Harmony") to acquire 100% ownership of the Kili Teke Gold-Copper Project ("Kili Teke" or the "Project") in Papua New Guinea ("PNG") (the "Acquisition" or "Transaction").

Kili Teke is an advanced porphyry gold-copper development project with an existing NI43-101 compliant mineral resource; and significant potential for re-optimization focusing on higher grade Au skarn mineralisation close to surface in addition to near site exploration potential to increase overall value.

Key Highlights:

KRL and HGEL have closed the definitive agreement for KRL to acquire 100% of the Kili Teke Project from HGEL as of today (September 14, 2023), including:



HGEL has obtained the necessary approvals from the PNG Mineral Resource Authority ("MRA") to transfer the Project to KRL;



KRL has paid to HGEL the balance of closing consideration of US$400,000 less adjustments (for a total payment to acquire 100% of the Project being US$500,000, inclusive of the original payment made); and



KRL has issued to Harmony 11,257,252 warrants equal to 9.9% of the issued capital of KRL on closing, enabling Harmony to become a strategic investor in KRL at its election in the future (upon Harmony exercising such warrants at a price of C$0.28 per warrant);





closing the Acquisition is a key milestone event for KRL, with the Company having control and ownership of 100% of all its blue-chip portfolio of projects: Kili Teke, May River, KRL North and KRL South (including the highly prospective Ontenu prospect);





KRL now holds a significant mineral resource as an inventory on closing, with an Inferred Mineral Resource of 237Mt @ 0.34% Cu, 0.24g/t Au and 168ppm Mo for a total of 802kt of Cu, 1.81Moz of Au and 40Kt Mo, using a 0.2% Cu cut-off (see the NI43-101 Technical Report for the Project released by KRL on January 12, 2023);





Kili Teke is a blue-chip development Project in PNG with significant potential for KRL (drawing on activities already completed by HGEL, including over 36,000 metres of drilling and circa US$25 million of historic expenditure) - see KRL's announcement of April 6, 2022 for Project details and the strategic rationale: https://kainanturesources.com/projects/kili-teke-project/;





Initial re-optimization work for the Project will accelerate on closing, with the target to develop a "first phase" Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") over the remainder of 2023 and into H1 2024, likely to confirm the robust potential of the Project:



the Project is likely capable of development as a small scale yet higher grade Au-Cu open pit operation generating strong economic returns;



higher grade Au mineralisation can be delineated within the upper reaches of the existing deposit; and



the current mineral resource estimate does not include identified skarn mineralisation expected to increase the Cu and Au grades by 5% and 4% respectively; and the respective metal contents by 11% and 10% (being of significant upside potential);





community support for KRL's acquisition remains strong, with the Company's external affairs team engaging well with local stakeholders.

Matthew Salthouse, CEO of KRL, commented:

"Taking control of 100% of Kili Teke is a key milestone event for KRL and a pleasing outcome for all stakeholders.

This transformational deal provides KRL with an exceptional advance stage project, likely to demonstrate robust economic returns initially as a higher-grade Au focused open pit mine. Building on the significant body of work already undertaken by Harmony, KRL's re-optimization studies will now accelerate around this objective. Further updates will follow on this initiative.

From a corporate perspective, KRL now has a sizeable mineral resource in our inventory; and full control and ownership of all portfolio projects: Kili Teke, May River, KRL North and KRL South.

In addition to recognising the ongoing support of our shareholders through challenging markets, KRL acknowledges the collaborative efforts of Harmony and the mining authorities in PNG to close this deal.

KRL remains committed to our core objective of developing a portfolio of high quality projects of material intrinsic value, with closing the Kili Teke deal being a critical step along this path."

Further Details

Post-closing events are in hand in consultation with HGEL and the MRA, including approval of a revised work programme focussing on KRL's plans for re-optimization of the Project.

Key terms of the Acquisition are stated in further detail in the announcement of April 6, 2022. There remains is a requirement for a payment after closing of US$500,000 (to be paid on or before December 1, 2023 as a required part of the tenement transfer process). In addition, further future payments on completing Project milestone gates are required on criteria set by KRL at its discretion.

The issuance of warrants to Harmony remains exercisable at C$0.28 per share (based on a 25% premium to the KRL 30-day VWAP share price when the Transaction was executed on April 5, 2022). On moving to commercial production, HGEL retains a royalty of 1.5% NSR.

The Inferred Mineral Resource estimates stated above are based on the NI43-101 Technical Report - Kili Teke Cu-Au Project, Papua New Guinea authored by Graeme J Fleming and dated November 18, 2022.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information disclosed in this release has been reviewed and approved by Graeme Fleming, B. App. Sc., MAIG, an independent "qualified person" as defined under National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About KRL

Kainantu Resources 'KRL' is an Asia-Pacific focused gold mining company with four highly prospective gold-copper projects, KRL South, KRL North and the May River Project. All projects are located in premier mining regions in PNG. Both KRL North and KRL South show potential to host high-grade epithermal and porphyry mineralisation, as seen elsewhere in the high-grade Kainantu Gold District. The May River project is near the world-renowned Frieda River Copper-Gold Project, with historical drilling indicating the potential for significant copper-gold projects. KRL has a highly experienced board and management team with a proven track record of working together in the region; and an established in-country partner. Kili Teke is an advanced development project with an existing NI43-101 compliant inferred mineral resource.

For further information please visit https://kainanturesources.com/

Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Disclaimer and Forward-Looking Information Mineralization hosted on adjacent and/or nearby properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Company's property. The data disclosed in this release relating to drilling results is historical in nature. Neither the Company nor a qualified person has yet verified this data and therefore investors should not place undue reliance on such data, and no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made by the Company, its affiliated companies, or any other person as to its fairness, accuracy, completeness, or correctness. This release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management's current expectations and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements or information. Forward-looking statements or information in this news release relate to, among other things: expectations regarding completion of the Acquisition and the terms thereof, including timing, the results of Preliminary Economic Assessments and Feasibility Studies, further exploration activities or development programs on the Project, receipt of necessary regulatory approvals and the formulation of plans for drill testing; the effect of the Acquisition on KRL and its portfolio; further growth of the Project; timing of the renewal of EL 2310; the ability of the Company to raise financing; the description and viability of the Project; the preparation and filing of a NI 43-101 Technical Report; and the ability of the Company to deliver on its strategic objectives and create shareholder value. These forward-looking statements and information reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant operational, business, economic and regulatory uncertainties and contingencies. These assumptions include; success of the Company's projects; prices for gold remaining as estimated; currency exchange rates remaining as estimated; availability of funds for the Company's projects; capital, decommissioning and reclamation estimates; prices for energy inputs, labour, materials, supplies and services (including transportation); no labour-related disruptions; no unplanned delays or interruptions in scheduled construction and production; all necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals are received in a timely manner; and the ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive. The Company cautions the reader that forward-looking statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: fluctuations in gold prices; fluctuations in prices for energy inputs, labour, materials, supplies and services (including transportation); fluctuations in currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar versus the U.S. dollar); operational risks and hazards inherent with the business of mineral exploration; inadequate insurance, or inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks and hazards; our ability to obtain all necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals in a timely manner; changes in laws, regulations and government practices, including environmental, export and import laws and regulations; legal restrictions relating to mineral exploration; increased competition in the mining industry for equipment and qualified personnel; the availability of additional capital; title matters and the additional risks identified in our filings with Canadian securities regulators on SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedar.com). Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, described, or intended. Investors are cautioned against undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances.

SOURCE Kainantu Resources Ltd.
Ottawa - Sept 14, 2023 - Stria Lithium Inc. (TSXV:SRA), (OTC:SRCAF), and (FRANKFURT:S35A) ("Stria Lithium", the "Company") is pleased to announce that exploration work has commenced on its Pontax II lithium project aimed at following up on its previously released high grade Tantalum sample anomalies.

Due to the forest fires this summer in Quebec access was restricted to our Pontax-II property delaying our summer geological work program. With the recent opening of the Billy Diamond highway (James Bay Road) and of the KM381 Truckstop (accommodations), Stria has reinitiated its prospecting program on the property. The current program, managed by IOS Services Geoscientifiques Inc., consists of helicopter supported prospecting and geological mapping for a period of two weeks, targeting the up-ice area of the two large tantalite dispersion trains (Stria press released of June 29th 2023) suggestive of the presence of spodumene pegmatites. Abundant outcrops are discernible from satellite imageries, suggesting conventional prospecting be the first exploration procedure. The program will include up-ice glacial sediment sampling in the event the source of the tantalite is not located.

Stria Lithium CEO, Dean Hanisch commented: "We are excited to finally get access to the project and begin the initial prospecting program now that the road and Truckstop have reopened. The exploration team will be joined partially by both our CFO Judith Mazvihwa-MacLean who happens to have a unique skillset of also being a geologist as well as myself to gain a better understanding of the property and its potential".

About Stria Lithium

Stria Lithium (TSX-V: SRA) is an emerging resource exploration company developing Canadian lithium reserves to meet legislated demand for electric vehicles and their rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

Lithium is a rare metal and an indispensable component of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, one of the safest and most efficient energy storage technologies available today, used in everything from cell phones and power tools to electric cars and industrial-scale energy storage for renewable power sources such as wind and solar generation.

Stria's Central Pontax Lithium Project covers 36 square kilometres, including 8 kilometres of strike along the prospective Chambois Greenstone Belt. The region, known as the Canadian "Lithium Triangle," is one of only a few known sources of lithium available for hard rock mining in North America.

Stria has entered into a JV agreement with Cygnus Metals (ASX:CY5) on its Pontax Central project. Cygnus Metals is committed to fully funding and managing the current two-stage exploration and drilling program to a maximum of $10 million at Stria's Pontax property, and will also pay Stria up to $6 million in cash. In return, Cygnus may acquire up to a 70% interest in the property. Cygnus has fulfilled its stage 1 requirements within the agreement and has now earned its 51% interest in the property as per above share issuance.

Stria's other significant project, Pontax II covers 55 square kilometres, approximately 25 kilometres to the west-south-west of Pontax Central and is located adjacent to the Billy-Diamond paved highway. Stria has added to this project by recently acquiring 24 claims, for 1276.5 hectares that are strategically located northeast of Stria's Pontax II claims.

Stria Lithium previously reported highly anomalous tantalum oxide grain counts in till samples up to 797 grains, the highest count ever recorded by the laboratory. The Pontax II grain counts stand at the 97.6 centile of the regional population with an average of 156 grains per sample as a comparative basis, a regional survey in the same area conducted by the Ministe?re de l'E?nergie et des Ressources Naturelles du Que?bec, processed a total of 5950 tantalum oxide grains yielding an average count of 36 grains per samples. The conclusion being the grain counts are suggestive of the proximity of lithium bearing pegmatites.

Pontax II claims are in highly active prospective zones, situated to the west southwest of Stria/Cygnus lithium discovery and situated to the west of the Patriot Battery Metals (PMET.V) Pontax project, and south of Brunswick Exploration (BRW.V).

Stria's Pontax properties are both situated close to an industrial powerline and a major paved highway, about 310 km north of the North American rail network that leads to the industrial heartland.

As momentum builds for the green energy revolution and the shift to electric vehicles, governments in Canada and the U.S. are aggressively supporting the North American lithium industry, presenting the industry and its investors with a rare, if not unprecedented, opportunity for growth and prosperity well into the next decade and beyond.

Stria is committed to exceeding the industry's environmental, social and governance standards. A critical part of that commitment is forging meaningful, enduring and mutually beneficial relationships with the James Bay Cree Nation (Eeyouch), and engaging openly and respectfully as neighbours and collaborators in this exciting project that has the potential to create lasting jobs and prosperity for Eeyou Istchee and its people.

For more information about Stria Lithium and the Pontax Lithium project, please visit https://strialithium.com

Follow us on:

Twitter@StriaLithium

Instagram@strialithium

Facebookhttp://www.facebook.com/strialithium

LinkedInhttp://www.linkedin.com/company/stria-lithium/

For more information on Stria Lithium Inc., please contact:

Dean Hanisch

CEO Stria Lithium

dhanisch@strialithium.com

+1(613) 612-6060

Investors Relations, Stria Lithium Inc.

ir@strialithium.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the accuracy or adequacy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. We cannot guarantee future results, performance or achievements. Consequently, there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking information.

Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Please refer to the risk factors disclosed under our profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. We undertake no duty to update any of the forward-looking information to conform such information to actual results or to changes in our expectations except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

Copyright (c) 2023 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
Ricciardo, in Singapore, has seven fractures says Marko

Daniel Ricciardo actually has "seven fractures" in his broken hand, Red Bull's Dr Helmut Marko has revealed.

Daniel Ricciardo, Hungarian GP 2023

 Red Bull

After crashing in practice at Zandvoort and sustaining the injury, Australian Ricciardo also missed the Italian GP whilst recovering from surgery.

He will again be replaced by Liam Lawson this weekend in Singapore, but 33-year-old Ricciardo will actually be trackside with Alpha Tauri only for engineering purposes .

He won't be available for any media and-or PR activities, the Red Bull-owned team added.

Marko and Red Bull boss Christian Horner have already indicated that Ricciardo will almost certainly also sit out next weekend's Japanese GP.

It's complicated, Marko told Servus TV when asked about Ricciardo's injury.

There are seven fractures, he revealed. "The same doctor who operated on Marc Marquez is taking care of him.
Africa remains destination for FDIs

Charles Benoni Okine, Philadelphia Business News Sep - 14 - 2023 , 04:19

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Yofi Grant, has said the political instability in a few countries in Africa should not be a disincentive for business people to invest on the continent, particularly in Ghana.

According to him, there are many fundamental issues surrounding the disturbances but the rest of Africa remained resolute and ready to keep their doors open for investors.

Mr Grant made the call in brief remarks at a welcome reception hosted by the UP-Ghana Chamber of Commerce in Philadelphia, United States of America as a prelude to the 2nd US-Ghana Business Summit and Expo.

About 50 Ghanaian businesses from both the private and public sector are attending the expo.

Also attending the high profile event are individuals who are expected to explore major opportunities in their quest to either set up their own businesses or form joint ventures with their American counterparts.

An initiative of the Chamber, the event is meant to among other things help to deepen discussion and relationship with critical institutions that facilitate international business development and cooperation.

According to UNCTAD's World Investment Report 2022, FDI inflows to Ghana increased from USD 1.88 billion in 2020 to USD 2.61 billion in 2021, thanks to projects in extractive industries. The FDI stock reached USD 41 billion in 2021

Coups

In the last couple of years, some African countries have been hit by political instability with the latest being in Gabon.

Particularly in West Africa, the situation is worse, a development many fear will have a serious impact on Foreign Direct Investment inflows.

As the military rulers refuse to let off their grip at the helm of affairs, many are those who fear that soon, there will be greater instability, a development which will further cause investors to lose hope in the continent and in the worst case scenario, lead to capital flight.

Growth opportunity

Mr Grant said there are records to show that returns on FDIs in Africa is higher than anticipated and, therefore, unless potential investors disabuse their minds about the few negative stories about the continent, they will never be able to leverage the opportunities thereof.

He said the wrong perceptions about Africa must change, and now, to prevent investors from asking for too many incentives.

Narrowing to Ghana, he said a lot of effort have gone into ensuring stability and the government and people of the country will continue to protect that enviable record as a bacon of democracy and good governance on the continent.

Follow-ups

The President of the chamber, Florence Torson-Hart, in her welcome address asked Ghanaian businesses attending the event to ensure that they follow-up on all the contacts they have made during the period.

This is what will make you strike a deal and, therefore, that contact should not be taken for granted, she said.

Mrs Torson-Hart said the event was a major one which should not be taken for granted and plead her commitment to ensure that the participants were ready for business.
Craft products that resonate with customers  Charger Limited CEO urges business

Justice Agbenorsi Business News Sep - 14 - 2023 , 03:43

THE Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Charger Limited, an alcoholic beverage company, has urged new businesses to craft products that resonate with customers.

Emmanuel Bortey Borketey said that would ensure that companies remained relevant in their respective industries.

At the launch of the companys latest product in Accra yesterday, the CEO said his company had always strived to craft unique products by always aiming for the highest quality and authenticity.

We've embarked on this journey knowing that each step brings us closer to our vision of setting new standards in the industry, he said.

Charger Limited's growth has been fuelled by our passion, our commitment to quality, and the unwavering support of our customers and partners.

We are excited about the future, and we look forward to continuing this incredible journey with all of you, he added.

Launch

The alcoholic beverage company launched a new beverage to its stock of blend of flavours in the Ghanaian market.

The Black Legend Blended Coffee Gin is primarily made up of coffee and gin to create an unparalleled drinking experience for consumers.

Describing the new gin as exceptional, Mr Borketey said the product was crafted from a meticulous craftsmanship and an unwavering dedication to excellence, adding that it blends the rich, bold flavours of coffee with the sophistication of gin, creating an unparalleled drinking experience.

The composition of Black Legend is 100 per cent natural, and as it has been our signature with Happy Man Bitters, we do not compromise on quality, he said.

Mr Borketey urged consumers to drink responsibly, adding that we take responsibility seriously when it comes to promoting responsible drinking and ensuring the well-being of our consumers.

Approach

The Communications Manager of Charger Limited, Ayeh Offei-Akoto, said Charger Limited adopted a one-step-at-a-time approach as its guiding principle towards marketing its lead product, Happy Man Bitters.

We believed in the power of consistency and quality, and we knew that success would come to those who persevered.

As we launch Black Legend Blended Coffee Gin, we remain true to our roots, while reaching for new heights, he added.

Commendation

At an earlier interaction with the management of the company at his residence, the Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, commended the CEO for the investment he had made, and asked workers of the company to work with commitment to expand its frontiers.

Sometimes when investments are made, the early days look promising, but after some time, bad attitudes on the part of workers lead to the degeneration of the businesses.

Employees of this company must adopt good attitudes such as reporting to work on time and working sincerely to enable the investor to make good returns for his investment, Nii Teiko Tsuru said.
Vodafone commits to ensuring infrastructure security for network speed

Business Desk Report Business News Sep - 14 - 2023 , 03:29

Vodafone Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the security of its infrastructure to enable customers to experience an enhanced network speed and facilitate improved services.

This comes at a time when the company has introduced its 4G+, a major upgrade to Vodafone Ghanas existing 4G technology.

Cable theft

In a release issued by the company it said, Mathias Duayin and Albert Edor, two individuals arrested on charges of cable theft in Akosombo, have been found guilty and each sentenced to a prison term of seven years by the Odumase Krobo Circuit Court.

According to the release, the theft involving cables with a combined length of 2,600 metres caused a staggering GH798,000.00 loss, affecting thousands of customers in the region.

The Director of Legal and External Affairs at Vodafone Ghana, Preba Greenstreet, expressed her gratitude for the swift resolution of the matter, adding that we are grateful for the swift action of the Akosombo police and the Odumase Krobo Circuit Court. Cable theft is a pressing concern, and our collaboration with law enforcement agencies will continue to address and mitigate its repercussions.

The release said the theft of such cables disrupts telecommunication services, posing challenges for businesses and residents reliant on consistent connectivity.

As Vodafone Ghana continues to expand its operations, with the recent introduction of 4G+, safeguarding assets remains a top priority.

Proving its commitment to ensuring that as many Ghanaians as possible can tap into this enhanced speed, Vodafone is also rolling out a device financing scheme, where customers can purchase 4G+ compatible phones from Vodafones retail outlets, paying for them in manageable instalments. These phones come bundled with 2.5GB of free data every month for 12 months, it said.

It added that the swift sentencing of the cable thieves not only underscores the importance of safeguarding critical infrastructure but also highlights the commitment of both law enforcement and corporate entities like Vodafone Ghana in ensuring a secure and progressive digital future for all Ghanaians.
Accra City Hotel celebrates 35th anniversary

GraphicOnline Features Sep - 14 - 2023 , 04:37

In a grand celebration of three and a half decades of unwavering dedication to hospitality, the esteemed team at Accra City Hotel proudly announces its 35th anniversary.

Since its inception in 1988, the hotel has set a gold standard for comfort and quality, becoming a beacon of excellence in the hospitality industry.

From its early days as the first star-rated hotel in Accra to its transformation into Accra City Hotel, the establishment has consistently raised the bar for guest experience. The ethos of the hotel has been to cultivate an environment of tranquillity and relaxation, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe.

What distinguishes Accra City Hotel is its steadfast commitment to guest comfort. Recognizing the challenges of travel, the hotel has meticulously curated rooms and suites, transforming them into havens of relaxation. With plush beds, carefully chosen linens, and thoughtful amenities, every detail has been designed to ensure restful nights for guests.

Acknowledging that achievements of this magnitude are the result of a collective effort, the management expressed gratitude to its exceptional staff. Their dedication to service excellence, marked by friendliness, professionalism, and meticulous attention to detail, forms the bedrock of guest satisfaction and loyalty.

Throughout the years, Accra City Hotel has evolved to meet the evolving needs of its discerning clientele. Culinary offerings, masterfully crafted by talented chefs, have earned the hotel high praise among food connoisseurs.

Innovation and sustainability have remained central tenets of the hotel's operations. From implementing energy conservation measures to reducing its carbon footprint, Accra City Hotel strives to make a positive impact on the environment, underscoring its commitment to the communities it serves.

To commemorate this momentous occasion, the hotel extends an invitation to all, whether past guests or those yet to experience the wonders it offers, to partake in the celebration of its 35th anniversary. The promise is an unforgettable experience, one that will leave indelible memories to be cherished for a lifetime.

As the hotel sets its sights on the next chapter, its commitment to providing an exceptional experience of comfort and quality remains resolute. All are welcomed to the illustrious establishment to create more memorable moments together.

The team at Accra City Hotel extends heartfelt thanks to all who have been a part of this remarkable 35-year journey and looks forward to many more years of absolute excellence.
Cable theft: Homeowners, developers and police alert

Tony Asare Opinion Sep - 14 - 2023 , 08:16

There is rampant theft of electrical cables on construction sites these days, which is sickening.

The phenomenon is getting out of hand.

Citizens struggle to do their wiring with the hope that they are nearing completion of their projects just to get the shock of their lives when they find out that electrical cables have been pulled out of conduits.

Many private developers become helpless when they find out that they have had their cables stolen.

For the past few years, this phenomenon has grown.

It is not only the stealing of cables; sometimes they even pull out air-conditioning copper pipes as well.

These items do not come cheap and replacement of the process is equally expensive.

Re-cabling is not a straightforward replacement.

Sometimes, cables get stuck in the conduits and would require pulling out completely to enable new cables to be laid properly or it would result in future electrical problems.

Even when these thieves are caught, the retrieved cables are useless to the owners because the cables become almost unusable.

For a small three-bedroom house, the theft could cost anything between GH40,000 and GH60,000 for just the cables and wiring.

Burning wires near Ashaiman

When the cables are stolen, they result in sleepless nights for most.

This is very sad.

Copper cables

For a long time, copper cables were used for streetlights, and we saw the continued stealing of these cables.

A few of these thieves who were arrested were convicted.

Bracelets products on the markets made of copper

Copper cables were later swapped for aluminium cables and now there is a significant reduction of such thefts.

Aluminium is clearly not as lucrative as copper.

However, the phenomenon has gotten worse with building projects under construction because copper is the predominant material for cabling.

What do these thieves do with the cables?

Who buys these cables from them?

These cable thieves are after the copper that is used to make the cables.

It is as simple as that.

To get access to the copper, they usually burn the cables to get rid of the plastic coatings.

After that, the copper is sold to jewellers of all sorts who work these pieces into copper-based earrings, necklaces and other trinkets that end up on the market for people to patronise.

It is also believed that temporal and illegal structures such as kiosks in urban areas are sometimes wired with short cables from wire theft which are sold on the market.

Also, the copper obtained from this is sold to people who use it for decors on coffins.

There is a huge market that keeps oiling the theft of cables.

It must be stopped.

Apart from being harmful to the environment, burning cables is also dangerous to those who inhale the fumes and smoke.

There are many places within the metropolis where cables are burnt in the open and nobody questions that.

Along the motorway near Ashaiman and Agbogbloshie are the major areas where these cables are burnt regularly.

Very harmful toxins are released when burning plastic and can significantly increase the chances of cancer, respiratory illnesses and birth defects.

It can also greatly damage internal organs and the hormonal system.

Value chain

Clearly, there is a value chain that has to be broken by our security agencies to bring peace and sanity to developers and homeowners.

There is a crisis that is simmering.

It must be dealt with.

In April 2023, the ECG reported that it was spending close to Gh150,000 every week to replace stolen electrical components at its ground-mounted sub-stations in the Sekondi-Takoradi metropolis.

Slippers; products on the markets made of copper

This resulted in long power outages and a drop in the company's revenue.

The theft normally happens at the Companys ground-mounted stations on the outskirts of its operational communities.

One of the few preventive methods is to have power in cables when wired.

This is usually harmful if any attempt is made to remove the wires.

Thieves risk being electrocuted if there is power in cables on site.

It is believed that about 133 people have been electrocuted since 2014 while attempting to steal ECG cables.

However, the Energy Commission and ECG do not permit supplying power to development that has not been fully completed.

It is time to rethink this policy.

If power could be supplied to buildings and metered or given a flat rate, there could be temporary lighting on site as work goes on, and also prevent cable theft to a large extent.

Those in the space should start the debate.

Where is the Ghana Institution of Engineering?

Where are our Electrical Engineers?

Where are our Electrical Engineering Contractors?

Due to cable theft on site, electrical contractors are now beginning to hike up their rates.

At the end of the day, the developer is the one paying.

Our clients are those paying.

Would the IGP and his team do Ghanaians the honour to put a team together to look at this phenomenon?

The Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service should do Ghanaians a favour and start some mystery shopping here.

Too many people are quietly suffering and this is just not good enough for this country.

God bless our homeland Ghana.

The writer is an architect.
How China's media spokesperson dragged the UK with just 4 brutal points about Britain

yahoo.com International News Sep - 14 - 2023 , 15:23

LBC's Andrew Marr interviewed Victor Gao about China's influence in the UK. Chinas media spokesperson laid into the UK during an interview with Andrew Marr this week, slamming any suggestions the two countries could be rivals.

Victor Gao, the former translator to the late Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping and vice president of the Centre for China and globalisation, is widely perceived as the spokesperson for the Chinese Communist Party.

Following the weekends reports around a suspected Chinese spy working in the UK parliament, Gao was invited onto LBCs Tonight With Andrew Marr to discuss Chinas influence in Britain on Monday.

The radio host asked Chinas spokesperson: How would you regard your relationship with Britain?

Gao replied: First of all, between China and Britain, from the Chinese perspective, Britain is not a rival, it is not competitor, it is not an enemy, it is not an adversary.

Britain is just an important country to get along with in peace and in friendship, and for mutual benefit.

  



China's Media Spokesperson Drags The UK With Just 4 Brutal Points About Britain:



'The British government should not overestimate its impact on the global scene and view China as a rival of Britain'. pic.twitter.com/tXYDrlgDtW  Khalissee (@Kahlissee) September 13, 2023

He said that Britains perspective of China was up to the UK government, but I think it would be completely misguided for Britain to view China as an enemy or adversary, or competitor.

He then proceeded to demolish the UKs trading prowess by asking: What do China and Britain compete with?

China is the largest manufacturer of automobiles, competing with Britain? No.

China is the largest exporter of EV [electrical vehicle] cars, and will lead the whole world in EV production. Is Britain a competitor? No.

China will be the biggest and most important producer and R&D in terms of semi-conductor in no time. Does that mean China competes with Britain? No.

China will be the leading nation in AI revolution. Is Britain a competitor? No.

So I think British government should not overestimate its impact on the global scene and view China as a rival.

China is a fact, China is a mega-trend, for Britain to live with and get along with. Lets make peace, rather than agitate for war.

Gao also said people cannot fight the fact that China is the largest trading partner in the world.

The interview followed calls for the UK to distance itself from Beijing following the parliamentary spy allegations.

However, Downing Street has refused to do so, choosing to only refer to the country as a challenge rather than a threat  and insisting China will still be able to attend the UKs AI summit in November.
260 Kayayei returnees equipped with skills, start-up kits

Mohammed Fugu Sep - 14 - 2023 , 06:29

Young Kayayei (female porters) returnees in the West Mamprusi Municipality in the Northeast Region, numbering 260, have been equipped with entrepreneurial skills and start-up kits.

The training and kits are to enable them to create decent jobs and generate income for themselves.

The beneficiaries were trained in electrical works, tiling, weaving, make-up, hairdressing, fashion design, bead making and soap making, among others.

Initiated by the Catholic Relief Service (CRS), under its Providing Livelihood Opportunities and Support for Kayayei Porters (KAYAPORT) project, the intervention seeks to empower the young females and prevent them from travelling to the south in search of non-existing opportunities.

The beneficiaries were selected from communities in the municipality where there is high rate of rural-urban migration.

The three-year project is jointly being implemented by the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Catholic Diocese (NABOCADO) with a funding of $334,446.12.

Graduation

At the graduation ceremony in Walewale, the Senior Vice-President for Overseas Operations at CRS, Shannon Senefeld, said the young women had been equipped with valuable technical and vocational skills that would empower them to pursue sustainable and diverse livelihoods.

Hairdressing kits on display

"The KAYAPORT project aligned perfectly with one of our agency goals of empowering youth to thrive.

Migration, especially among young women seeking work as kayayei, presents several risks and vulnerabilities," she said.

She mentioned the pivotal role of the youth, particularly young women, in Ghana's transformation and called for collective investment to empower them and nurture their talents to create an equitable society.

Ms Senefeld advised the beneficiaries to put the knowledge acquired and support to good use to enable them to create decent jobs for themselves.

Commendation

For her part, the National Director of the Department of Social Welfare, Rev. Dr Comfort Asare, said "the interventions would impact the national development process in the aspect of entrepreneurship skills in the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector.

The Northeast Regional Minister, Yidana Zakaria, commended the CRS and partners for the intervention and said it would go a long way to improve on their livelihoods.

Some of the beneficiaries, who spoke to the Daily Graphic, thanked the CRS and its partners for the gesture and said they would put the skills acquired into useful ventures to create jobs for themselves.
7 Fishermen missing at Ada

Benjamin Xornam Glover Sep - 14 - 2023 , 18:11

Fisherfolks in Ada in the Ada East District in the Greater Accra Region are living in fear as two fishing canoes and some crew members have gone missing after a fishing expedition.

The crew members Graphic Online gathered set sail on Wednesday, September 13, 2023 and while returning from their expedition on Thursday dawn, their canoes capsized near the estuary whilst trying to enter the Volta River.

Seven fishermen out of the 19 fishermen involved in the accident were still missing as of 6:30pm on Thursday.

The Ada East District NADMO Coordinator, Ebenezer Teye Kisseh Nartey who confirmed the incident said NADMO received a distress call around 7am on Thursday of an accident involving two canoes.

Mr Nartey revealed that 10 out of the 11 fishermen onboard one of the canoes named "Shalom" were rescued while two others out of a crew of eight onboard another canoe named "Barcelona" were found in a community in the neighbouring Volta Region.

He said six other fishermen on the second canoe are still missing.

He said the first canoe had been retrieved but badly damaged while the second boat, together with its fishing gears, have not been found.

Mr Nartey said NADMO was collaborating with the Ghana Navy in a search and rescue mission for the missing fishermen.
ASA supports two basic schools in Ashanti

Emmanuel Baah Sep - 13 - 2023 , 18:34

ASA Savings and Loans has provided some support to the Bepoase R/C Basic School and the Anglican Cluster of Schools in

in the Sekyere South District and the Atwima-Nwabiagya Municipality in the Ashanti Region.

The initiative, forms part of the financial institutions corporate social responsibility (CSR).

A team of staff from ASA, led by the Manager of the Agona-Kona branch, Mr Mcjohn Kwarteng donated some building materials to the Bepoase R/C Basic School to help complete an ongoing 10-unit classroom block.

At the Tanoso Anglican Cluster of Schools, furniture for the classroom and staff common room were also donated.
Boost for shea sector - 1,000 Seedlings planted in Savannah Ecological Zone

Mohammed Fugu Sep - 14 - 2023 , 12:00

Global Shea Alliance (GSA) has begun planting the first 1,000 grafted shea seedlings in the Savannah Ecological Zone (SEZ) in collaboration with the Forestry Commission and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), giving the shea sector a major boost.

The grafted seedlings, the first of their kind to be planted in the history of the country, have a short gestation period of about five to seven years unlike the conventional shea trees which take about 20 years to mature and bear fruits.

Averagely, a shea tree takes 15 to 20 years to mature and bear fruits in the wild. However, the grafted shea seedlings which were developed by the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG), are more climate-resilient, disease and pest-resistant and have the potential to bear more fruits.

The 1,000 seedlings being planted by the GSA and its partners formed part of the Shea Landscape Emission Reductions Project (GSLERP) which seeks to mitigate the effects of climate change within the fragile ecosystem of the Northern Savannah Landscapes and to improve the shea value chain through four key components.

The components are restoration of off reserve, degraded savannah forests under self- financing community management in Community Resource Management Area (CREMA), restoration of degraded shea parklands through public-private partnerships, establishment of Modified Taungya System plantations and fire management in forest reserves and implementation of integrated monitoring system and strengthening of REDD+ systems.

A key feature of the project is the planting of 3.5 million grafted shea seedlings to restore degraded shea parklands.

Funded by Climate Fund, the seven-year project also seeks to plant native tree species, including Dawadawa, Baobab and Mahogany across the beneficiary areas.

Under the project, women in the various beneficiary communities are currently engaged in the management of the nurseries.

Planting exercise

Planting the grafted seedlings at the 69 Airborne Military Camp in Tamale yesterday to kick-start the exercise, the Managing Director of Global Shea Alliance, Aaron Adu, indicated that the GSA and its partners intended to plant 3.5 million shea trees and 500,000 non-shea seedlings at the end of the project.

So far, under component 2.1 of the project, the GSA has established 45 shea nurseries and potted 1,578,181 million shea seeds.

From the seedlings developed in 2022, we have planted 70,940 non-shea trees, 3,047 shea trees and 25,000 grafted shea seedlings.

In 2024, we will graft 1 million seedlings and transplant them accordingly, he said.

Aside from restoring the fragile ecosystem and tackling climate change, he said the initiative would also promote investments in the shea value chain and empower rural women, adding that more than 500,000 people are expected to benefit from the intervention.

While commending the partners and donors for ensuring the successful rollout of the project, Mr Adu urged beneficiary communities to own the trees and protect them from bushfires and human destruction to ensure their survival.

Hope

For his part, the Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, John Allotey, said the grafted shea seedlings being planted symbolised hope, resilience and transformation in the countrys quest to restore the degraded ecosystem and tackle climate change head-on.

It embodies our commitment to preserving our natural resources, improving the livelihoods of our communities and mitigating the effects of climate change.

Each seedling stands as a testament to our determination to build a greener, more sustainable future for the fragile ecosystem of Northern Savannah, he noted.

He said the GSLERP was the second flagship project to be developed out of Ghanas 20-year REDD+ strategy launched in 2016, adding that the GSLERP also has the potential to generate emission reduction payments for results if the project is successfully implemented to achieve its planned contribution to Ghanas Nationally Determined Contributions to the Paris Agreement.

Commendation

The UNDP Resident Representative, Dr Angela Lusigi, lauded Ghanas commitment to reversing degradation, protecting forest livelihoods and responding to the threat of climate change.

She said interventions such as the GSLERP was a step in the right direction in helping people live in equilibrium with nature to build lasting prosperity.

We are convinced that effective partnerships are the key to successful implementation of Ghana REDD+ strategy.

This is why we are fully invested in ensuring that reducing deforestation, forest degradation and carbon emissions through the Ghana Shea Landscape Emissions Reduction Project brings transformational change in Ghanas Northern Savannah Zone.

She reiterated the UNDPs commitment to continue to partner the government to initiate deliberate interventions targeted at preserving the environment and improving the general well-being of the people.

The Commanding Officer, 69 Airborne Force, Lieutenant Colonel Louis Yaw Boakye, thanked the GSA and its partners for collaborating with the command to undertake the tree planting exercise, saying that the partnership exemplified the spirit of unity and shared responsibility in addressing critical environmental and community challenges.
CEDI spearheads summit to address youth unemployment in Ghana

Graphic.com.gh Sep - 13 - 2023 , 18:27

A summit to discuss and explore opportunities for fostering entrepreneurship, job creation, and empowerment for the youth and women in Ghana will take place in Accra from September 25 to 29.

Community and Entrepreneurial Development Initiative (CEDI) is the organization behind the initiative, known as the Entrepreneurship Jobs for All (E-Jobs4All) Summit.

It is under the theme, "Entrepreneurship and Innovation: The Key to Sustainable and Decent Jobs and Wealth Creation."

It is a collaboration between the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, the Dunin-Deshpande Queens Innovation Centre at Queens University, Canada, and Leadogo Incorporated, Canada, with support from the National Alternative Employment Livelihood Programme (NAELP) under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.

It is aimed at addressing poverty and youth unemployment in Ghana by providing free entrepreneurship training, mentorship, and investment opportunities to the youth to develop and launch their businesses.
Dont denigrate judicial system with extortionist behaviours - Chief Justice to judicial staff

Shirley Asiedu-Addo & Francisca Eshun Sep - 14 - 2023 , 06:03

The Chief Justice, Her Ladyship, Gertrude Araba Sackey Torkornoo, has admonished judicial service workers to desist from extortionist behaviours that denigrate the image of the service.

She said that the service was a noble institution and, therefore, employees must ensure they exhibit high moral values to repose public trust and confidence in the country's justice system.

"Don't come to work with the intention of getting your daily bread out of people who have come to court to seek justice.

Courts are like hospitals, people come only because they have trouble.

If they could solve the problem they wouldn't have come here, and so don't use the time of somebody's pain to give them more pain.

It's not good enough," Justice Torkornoo said.

The Chief Justice, who was addressing judicial service staff at a workers durbar in Cape Coast in the Central Region last Monday, however, said the fact that there was law and order in the country was indicative of some confidence in the justice system which she commended the staff for.

Stewardship

Justice Torkornoo further reminded the workers that "we are a public service; we are servants, and we are here to serve the people".

"If you don't like the job because we won't allow you to be demanding money you can give me my job back.

Focus on serving and blessings will follow.

Put in the right attitude to work.

Give the world professionalism and diligence to deepen the integrity of the judicial service," she added.

The Chief Justice also urged them to keep the affairs of courts confidential while charging court managers and registrars to ensure discipline without fear or favour.

E-justice

Justice Torkornoo said her outfit was working to upgrade its automation system by directing transcription services to electronic-justice infrastructure.

She said upon completion of the system, almost all services would gradually be migrated onto the electronic platform.

They include e-filing, e-case distribution, e-hearing and e-execution.

The Chief Justice, therefore, advised staff to upgrade themselves, saying "if you are a bailiff and it's difficult for you to find your way in the e-service space, then your service would not be needed anymore.

She also encouraged them to undertake some studies in Law, because "a lot of our inefficiencies come not because people don't want to do their work, but because they lack an appreciation of the legal landscape which affects the quality of work".

Justice Torkornoo said her outfit would engage with the Judicial Training Institute on how staff could be trained to make the delivery of justice more efficient and effective.

She also pledged to construct a new court complex in Cape Coast.

Concerns

The President of JUSAG, Samuel Afotey Otu, expressed concerns over delays in the completion and implementation of salary reviews which he said caused a lot of distress for members.

He said while putting in place measures to ensure the delivery of justice, much might not be achieved unless the human resource needs of workers were adequately taken care of.

Mr Otu, nonetheless, pledged the support of JUSAG to efficient justice delivery.
Experts call for increased advocacy on adolescent mental, sexual health

Doreen Andoh & Diana Mensah Sep - 14 - 2023 , 06:07

Health experts have said that increasing advocacy on adolescent mental, sexual and reproductive health was an effective way of dealing with them.

They were speaking at a national forum in Accra yesterday on adolescent health to increase awareness and well-being.

Other issues discussed included teenage pregnancy, cervical cancer, substance abuse and mental health which were said to be on the ascendancy and needed urgent solutions.

The experts included an obstetrician gynaecologist and reproductive health consultant at the Greater Accra Regional Health Directorate, Dr Emmanuel Ameh; a psychiatrist at the Pantang Hospital, Dr Selasie Addom; the Head of Adolescent Care Clinic at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Dr Betty Bankah; the President of the Paediatric Society of Ghana, Hilda Manteba Boye, and the President of Diabetes Youth Care, Richel Arthur.

The forum which was organised by the Pediatric Society of Ghana, was also to give a voice to the about seven million adolescents in the country to talk about their concerns and recommend approaches that would help them better.

Some young people living with diabetes and sickle cell anaemia also shared their experiences and encouraged young people living with other various health conditions never to allow such conditions to prevent them from maximising their potential.

Dr Ameh said in the case of teenage pregnancy, prevention was key because the bodies of young people were not developed enough to carry pregnancies.

He said it also increased their vulnerabilities to pregnancy-related complications such as anaemia, hypertension, bleeding, premature delivery and death.

Dr Ameh, therefore, said it was critical to empower both boys and girls with the requisite information on their sexuality to enable them to make informed decisions.

We advise that you abstain but if you want to have sexual intercourse, you can visit any family planning or reproductive health service provider and get the support you need so that you don't get pregnant or get any sexually transmitted infection, he said.

Significance

For her part, Dr Boye also explained that the Paediatric Society of Ghana organised the forum to improve awareness of adolescent health and well-being to boost the assertiveness, positive decision-making and positive peer influencing of adolescents in communities.

She advised young people against smoking of weed and or including it in food or drinks as it was harmful to their mental health.

Dr Boye said that sometimes it was difficult to know whether a person was using harmful substances until symptoms such as change in behaviour, hallucinations, reddening of eyes, among others, set in, by which time the condition might have reached a critical stage.
No herbal medicine has been approved for Prostate Cancer - Public cautioned

Emmanuel Bruce Sep - 14 - 2023 , 12:07

A Doctor at the Urology Department at Korle-Bu, Dr Daniel Asiedu has cautioned the public that no traditional or herbal medicine has been approved for the treatment of prostate cancer.

He bemoaned the increasing rate at which people are roaming the streets with various herbal and traditional that promises to cure prostate cancer or prevent it.

They have PA systems with loud speakers that they play and anytime I meet them, the kind of information they are giving out to the public, I sometimes want to scream from my car that they are lying.

They are giving out wrong information to the public. No herbal or traditional medicine has been identified or approved to cure or prevent prostate cancer, he stated.

Dr Asiedu was speaking at the launch of a Prostate Cancer Awareness Campaign in Accra.

He advised men who encounter urinary issues to immediately seek assistance from a medical facility for early check-up and treatment.

He also urged them to frequently take prostate cancer tests for early diagnosis and treatment, noting that African men have a high risk of developing prostate cancer during their lifetime.

Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate glands of men typically above the age of 55. Symptoms may include trouble urinating, blood in semen or urine, erectile dysfunction, bone pain, and weight loss.

Much like any other cancerous disease, when not diagnosed in its early stages it spreads in the joints and bones and leads to death.

Campaign

To help address this critical health issue of prostate cancer, the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and Bayer AG have initiated a campaign titled 'Real Men ACT, which expresses a call to action that stands for A- awareness of risks and symptoms, C- check for cancer, and T- receive treatment.

The aim of the campaign is to transform the landscape of prostate cancer detection and treatment in the country.

The campaign will start with eight strategically chosen districts within Accra. The districts are Accra metropolitan, Ayawaso East, Weija-Gbawe, Ga West, Shai Osudoku, Ashiaman, Kpone Katamanso, and Lekma.

The Initiative encompasses an array of activities with Reggie Rockstone as its campaign ambassador.

There will be community engagements, workshops, and health discussions on various media platforms.

The multi-pronged approach of the campaign ensures that it reaches a wide cross-section of the population, aiming to spread knowledge about prostate cancer symptoms, its risk factors, dispel myths and misinformation on the disease, encourage early screenings and testing, and generally foster a culture of regular checkups.

Baseline study

Also speaking at the launch, the Team Lead, Holger Till, said after a baseline study in selected districts, it became evident that there was a general lack of appreciation for the risk factors as well as the benefits of early diagnosis of the disease.

He said the campaign therefore aims to raise awareness on the issue of prostate cancer and conscientise men as primary targets to prioritise and make informed decisions about their health.

By doing this, we hope mens health will be at the forefront of health in the region, because lets face it, for the longest time, womens health has been the focus with advocacy centering on breast and cervical cancers, he pointed out.
President of ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development nominated for award

Zadok Kwame Gyesi Sep - 14 - 2023 , 08:58

The President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), Dr George Agyekum Donkor, has been nominated for yet another international honour- the Development Champion Award by the Rebranding Africa Forum.

The award will be presented during a special ceremony in Brussels, Belgium, as part of the 9th Edition of the forum in October 2023.

It will be recalled that in 2022, Dr Donkor received the prestigious Crans Montana Forum Prix de la Fondation award in Geneva, Switzerland, and was also named by Financial Afrik Magazine as one of the Top 100 Personalities Transforming Africa.

The Development Champion Award similarly recognizes Dr Donkors contributions to fast-tracking development in the ECOWAS subregion, by championing the implementation of various measures to support private-sector expansion and public-sector promotion while addressing infrastructural challenges.

A lawyer by profession and development banker by training with almost three decades of experience, Dr Donkors career has been devoted to strategic governance with an insistence on continuous improvement to deliver tangible results. Under his capable leadership, EBID has chalked numerous successes since 2020, notably in the areas of governance, mobilisation of resources, and financial and operational performance, among others.

In 2022, International rating agencies Fitch Ratings and Moodys, noting EBIDs recent advancements, upgraded its rating to B with Stable Outlook and B2 with Stable Outlook respectively, which was a first in the history of the Bank. Additionally in 2023, the Bank received an A+ rating in the 12th Peer Review of African DFIs from the Association of African Development Finance Institutions (AADFI) for its commitment to excellence while promoting sustainable development.

The Rebranding Africa Forum is an annual event that brings political personalities, business leaders and young impact makers together to generate partnerships, discuss strategies and coordinate their efforts while shining a spotlight on relevant socio-economic trends.

Dr Donkor will also serve as a keynote speaker for the 2023 program on the theme: Evolving African financial systems- Reconciling authenticity and modernity: Pathways towards financial inclusion. Previous speakers for the event include Tony Blair, Former UK Prime Minister and Hadja Lahbib, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Belgium.

About EBID

ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) is the Development Finance Institution of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) comprising fifteen (15) Member States.

The Bank is committed to financing developmental projects and programmes covering diverse initiatives from infrastructure and basic amenities, rural development and environment, industry, and social services sectors, through its private and public sector windows.
QNET seeks to partner government in Green Ghana

Samuel S. Bio Sep - 14 - 2023 , 19:41

QNET says it has identified tree planting as one area it will partner the Ghana government to achieve its reafforestation objective across the country.

Subsequently, the global direct selling e-commerce business has given an assurance that it is opening discussions with stakeholders of the Green Ghana initiative such as the government, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Forestry Commission to agree on areas they could effectively partner for the country to achieve the needed impact with the Green Ghana initiative.

This was announced by the sub-Saharan Regional General Manager of the lifestyle and wellness direct selling company, Mr Biram Fall, at the silver jubilee celebration of the QI Group in Penang, Malaysia on Tuesday.

The anniversary coincided with V-Convention (V-Malaysia 23), a grand gathering that features a series of world-class motivational speeches and training sessions for professional networkers that bring exhibitions of the QI diverse history, vibrant business journey, exclusive merchandise, and special promos.

Mr Fall said three themes define the RYTHM initiative, which are environment, empowerment and education.

He said so far the initiative, which was funded each year with about $10m, was operational around the globe with about 1200 people including hearing and visually impaired children in the Western and Central regions of Ghana benefiting from the initiative.

He noted that QNET had already embarked on a tree planting exercise in the country and its intended partnership with the government's Green Ghana initiated would extend that exercise to a higher level.

Contribution to SDGs

He added that the partnership would also be his organisation's contribution to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15 that seeks and enjoins nations to protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity.

Dealing with scammers

The Chief Legal Officer of QNET, Nikhil Patel expressed worry that QNET had been misrepresented in Ghana, but said his company "is collaborating with the security agencies to bring such scammers to book". He was particularly concerned that Africa and West Africa in particular was lagging behind in the over $120 trillion global e-commerce business, which otherwise would provide employment to many to reduce the alarming unemployment levels.

The founder addressing one of the open conferences at the SPICE Arena in Penang

Build teams

The founder of the QI Group, Vijay Eswaran, paid glowing tribute to the thousands of people around the world that were employed by QNET.



He singled out the directors for their commitment to ensuring the growth of the company over the years, by nurturing it from a two-man company 25 years ago into a global direct selling conglomerate worldwide.

He emphasised the critical role of teamwork in achieving success, saying "QIs journey to success would not have been possible without the dedicated and passionate individuals who formed our team."

If it wasnt for that team we wouldn't have been here. The important thing you all need to learn is to build a team. It is the team that will take you to the top. When you build a team, your team will build you, emphasised.

He tasked entrepreneurs, business leaders and start-ups to avoid saddling themselves with the task of wanting to manage every aspect of their business by themselves but to build teams and empower them to take charge of various aspects of the business, saying that the QI Group had reached thus far because the business was hinged on the efficiency and effectiveness of a strong team.

QNET is a subsidiary of the QI Group of companies with offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. By combining the power of e-commerce and direct selling, QNET combines e-commerce and direct selling and creates a platform for individuals to not only improve their own lives but also contribute to the economic growth of their communities. The company aims to foster entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and personal development, empowering individuals to achieve their goals and aspirations. It has representations across the globe.
US to establish Small Modular Nuclear Reactor Regional Training Hub in Ghana

Juliet Akyaa Safo Sep - 14 - 2023 , 06:46

Ghana has been chosen by the United States for the establishment of a Small Modular Nuclear Reactor (SMR) regional training hub and centre of excellence for the sub-Saharan Africa region.

The country was selected due to its strong cooperation, leadership and consistency in training nuclear engineers.

The new US commitment is to better position the country to develop a skilled nuclear workforce for the Africa region consistent with the highest international standards of nuclear safety, security and non-proliferation.

It comes with a $1.75 million funding support which will be aimed at expanding university partnerships and academic exchanges to prepare the country to serve as a regional training hub of nuclear power engineers, technicians, scientists and operators.

The funding is provided under the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of SMR Technology (FIRST) capacity-building programme.

The FIRST programme offers capacity-building support to partner countries and explores the potential for small modular reactors to meet their clean energy needs.

Conference

The Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the US Department of State Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation (ISN), Ann Ganzer, announced this at a two-day FIRST Africa Regional Conference in Accra, yesterday.

It was co-hosted by the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC).

The conference was geared towards educating officials in sub-Saharan Africa to better understand the role of civil nuclear energy, particularly SMRs and microreactors in meeting their clean energy needs and climate goals in a safe and secure manner.

It brought together energy and nuclear power experts, academia and non-governmental organisations to discuss how nuclear energy can play a role in African countries' overall energy mix and the importance of workforce development.

The participants were from Ghana, Canada, Japan, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, the Republic of Korea, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Regional training hub

Ms Ganzer said the USs commitment to establish the hub was another step to deepen civil nuclear cooperation and support Ghana's goal of being a first mover in Africa.

She said the partnership would assist the country and other like-minded countries in the region in moving towards clean, affordable, safe and secure energy sources.

The United States is committed to supporting the use of innovative clean energy technologies to power global decarbonisation efforts.

We are happy to partner with Ghana and we think the regional training partnership will help with the energy transition in Ghana, she stated.

She mentioned that Kenya and Ghana have been outstanding FIRST programme partners in the sub-Saharan Africa region and continue to receive support in the form of training, technical collaboration and capacity-building activities.

The Manager, Executive Office of Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG), Daniel Wordson, said the countrys national energy policy, among others, focused on establishing strategic bilateral partnerships with nuclear power countries and relevant institutions.

He said institutions such as the Ghana Nuclear Institute and the NRA had been established to handle the technical aspect of nuclear power and to educate the public to address concerns on nuclear power in the energy mix.

He stated that SMRs in Ghana's Nuclear Energy Plan was the most practical modern technology to facilitate the management of Ghanas energy resources to create wealth sustainably.

He added that it was critical for the country to work to meet future base load demand, as it had been estimated that the population of the country would have an additional 40 million by 2070.

The Executive Secretary, African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE), Enobot Agboraw, called for a multilateral approach by African countries to pool resources to develop nuclear energy together.

Lets be one country in the development of nuclear power, he entreated.

The Director-General of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA), Nii Kwashie Allotey, expressed the commitment of the NRA to intensify public education and engagement on nuclear power and regulate civilian use of radioactive materials.
Dismiss NDCs claims on new cocoa price  NPP

Daily Graphic Politics Sep - 14 - 2023 , 06:13

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has said claims by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) that the government has shortchanged cocoa farmers with the new cocoa price is false and cannot be supported by actual events on the grounds.

It said the President's announcement of the new producer price last Saturday had been greeted with widespread gratification by the entire cocoa community in Ghana.

Indeed, all stakeholders in the cocoa industry, including farmers and the Ghana Civil-Society Cocoa Platform (GCCP), have all expressed joy and satisfaction at the new price and have commended the government for staying true to its words.

Political expediency

Therefore, anyone claiming that the government has shortchanged cocoa farmers will be doing so only for political expediency but not based on facts, the Director of Communications of the NPP, Richard Ahiagbah, said at a press conference in Accra yesterday.

He said it was highly disingenuous on the part of the NDC to blame the current administration for a decline in cocoa production when the party knew that it contributed to the unfortunate situation, adding that the decision by the then management to suspend the treatment of the Cocoa Swollen Shoot Viral Disease (CSSVD), resulting in many cocoa farms being attacked by the viral disease, was the root cause of Ghana's decline in production.

The NDC government's decision to withdraw support to farmers in treating the CSSVD in the Western Region, has resulted in yields dropping significantly from 346,000 metric tonnes to below 140,000 metric tonnes.

Today, the management of COCOBOD, through the support of the government led by President Akufo-Addo, has been able to restore most of these farms, which were plagued by diseases under the NDC, through the Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme.

These farms are expected to yield positive results in the next few years and help increase Ghana's production capacity.

Other social interventions are also currently being implemented for the benefit of cocoa farmers in the country, he said.

Mr Ahiagbah said it was also not an accurate claim by the NDC that COCOBOD started incurring losses only when the NPP assumed power in 2017 and that under the previous administration of the NDC, COCOBOD also made similar losses.

In 2016, before the NPP took overpower, COCOBOD, under the regime of the NDC led by President Mahama, caused significant losses of about $19 billion or more.

He said it was worth noting that under the NPP administration, Ghana recorded its highest-ever production of 1,045,500 in the 2020/21 Crop Season and that.

It is, therefore, not accurate when the NDC claims that the NPP has a poor track record in cocoa production.

In fact, in their case in 2009, when the country recorded a million tonnes, it was due to the ripple effects of the interventions introduced by the then NPP administration under President John Agyekum Kufuor.

Mr Ahiagbah said no other cocoa-producing country supported farmers with interventions such as the Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme, Mass Pruning, Hand Pollination, Mass Spraying, Fertiliser Subsidy Programme and Free Seedlings, as was the case in Ghana.

Production

As such, he said cocoa farmers in all those other countries bear the total cost of production.

In the 2019/2020 Crop year, he said the government and Cote d'Ivoire agreed on a new cocoa pricing mechanism to safeguard the welfare of cocoa farmers and that the aim was to secure a sustainable cocoa price for farmers and create a buffer against shocks associated with unstable world market prices.

The Producer Price has gone up by 63.5 per cent from GH12,800 per metric tonne (GH800.00 per bag) to GH20,943 or $1,821 per metric tonne, equivalent to GH1,308 per bag.
Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo apologises to NPP leadership, members

Kweku Zurek Politics Sep - 14 - 2023 , 13:29

The Member of Parliament for the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has offered an unreserved apology to the New Patriotic Party (NPP), specifically to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and the Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, for her recent behaviour.

Mrs Safo clarified that her actions were unintended and were a result of personal challenges she was grappling with, both as an individual and as a member of a family.

The former Deputy Majority Leader also sought forgiveness from the Majority Caucus, as well as from the party's regional and constituency executives.

She expressed her remorse in a two-minute video address to the nation published on her Facebook page, urging all her constituents to forgive her actions.

In 2022, Adwoa Safo faced the Privileges Committee of Parliament after being absent for over a year. The status of her seat became a point of contention, with fellow Majority members advocating for it to be declared vacant, in opposition to National Democratic Congress (NDC) MPs.

As of now, the Speaker has yet to make a ruling based on the Committee's report.

Upon her return to Ghana from the United States of America, the former Minister of Procurement stated her intentions to participate in the partys primaries for the 2024 elections.

Watch the video below;
First Bugri Naabu leaked tape doctored - Parliamentary Committee

Nana Konadu Agyeman Politics Sep - 14 - 2023 , 07:48

The special committee of Parliament investigating the purported plot to oust the Inspector General of Police (IGP) has confirmed that it now has in its possession a very long discussion and full complement of the taped conversation among the protagonists.

It said the first tape, about a 45-minute recording, appeared truncated, edited or doctored.

It said it received the second tape containing the voices of former New Patriotic Party Northern Regional Chairman, Bugri Naabu; Commissioner of Police (COP) George Alex Mensah, and Superintendent George Asare also from Mr Naabu, who had made the first tape available to the committee.

The Chairman of the committee, Samuel Atta Akyea, made this known when he briefed the press on the in-camera meeting the committee had with three of the witnesses  Mr Naabu, COP Mensah and Supt Asare  in Parliament on Wednesday [Sept 13, 2023].

The committee also engaged the Minister of National Security, Albert Kan-Dapaah, and his lawyer.

It was only the IGP, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, who could not show up, with the excuse that he was engaged in a national assignment.

Full complement tape

COP Mensah and Supt Asare had challenged the first tape on grounds that it had been truncated, edited or doctored.

With the witnesses urging the committee to obtain the original tape, Mr Atta Akyea said the committee received the second tape which contained the full complement of the conversation that Mr Naabu had with the two witnesses in his office at Osu in Accra.

Mr Atta Akyea said the committee considered the first tape upon the submissions by some witnesses that it did not represent the full conversation they had with Mr Naabu.

As a matter of fact, we have given the second tape to them (the witnesses) in advance, but they complained that they needed the transcription as well, and we gave them the transcription, he said.

Withholding report

The committee Chairman said Mr Kan-Dapaah, first to appear before the committee yesterday, was called because Supt Asare had confessed he appeared before the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) on the subject.

So, we will not do a shoddy work by not calling the minister who superintends over that bureau, he said.

Mr Atta Akyea said Mr Kan-Dapaah confirmed that the NIB called Supt Asare and others in relation to the same leaked tape.

He said the minister told the committee that although the NIB did a thorough work on the case and prepared an interim report, he would not share the report with the committee.

This is because it is a national security document which is not declassified in terms of law and Constitution, and there is no way he would share it with us, and the committee agreed with him, he said.

He said all the witnesses agreed with the position of the minister, who tendered his written statement on what he said to the committee.

Next hearing

The committee, however, adjourned hearing to October 2 to 5, 2023, upon an appeal by the lead counsel of the IGP, Kwame Gyan, to the committee to allow them to study the materials given to them.

Mr Atta Akyea expressed optimism that soon after October 5, the committee would be able to conclude proceedings and submit its report to the plenary of parliament.

He, however, indicated that when sitting resumed, it would be an in-camera hearing for all witnesses to congregate with their lawyers.

They are supposed to give us evidential support in relation to what they said openly and publicly, he said.

He urged the public to bear with the committee on grounds that it was not trying to shut out the press.

There are national security implications in relation to the interrogations, and we need to exercise that discretion.

As to what is good for the public consumption and what is not, eventually a report will be placed before Parliament, which will be a matter of public knowledge, and Parliament will debate it and a resolution will be made on the basis of the report, he added.

No video before committee

Asked if the committee had received a tape in which Mr Naabu was supposedly captured boasting about receiving GH10,000 from the IGP every month, Mr Atta Akyea said the committee had not received such a footage, and that it had not been brought to its attention.

He, however, gave an assurance that the committee would scrutinise every evidence that would be made available to it.

It is not a fetish of our inquiry, but it is an open inquiry and the public who are interested in the sanity of the Ghana Police Service can always come in with whatever evidence which has direct relation to our remit, and we will look at it, the committee chairman said.
NPP flagbearer hopeful, Dr. Afriyie Akoto, confident of victory in November 4 primary

GraphicOnline Politics Sep - 14 - 2023 , 06:58

Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, an aspirant for the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) flagbearer position, has expressed confidence in securing victory in the party's presidential primary scheduled for November 4, 2023.

Backing his assertion, Dr. Akoto highlighted his vision for diversifying Ghana's agricultural sector through comprehensive policies and programs. He emphasized that this approach is pivotal in revitalizing the country's economy and alleviating the enduring hardships faced by Ghanaians.

Speaking to journalists at his campaign headquarters on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, after securing the third position on the primary ballot, Dr. Akoto positioned himself as Ghana's beacon of hope for the future. He urged delegates to resist intimidation and external influences, and unite with him in large numbers.

"I am more motivated than ever to carry the NPP's flag and ultimately secure power for the party. Among all the candidates vying for the NPP flagbearer role, who presents a vision more compelling than mine? My aspirations for the NPP and for Ghana instill hope, and that's why hundreds of thousands of Ghanaians are urging me to press on and fight until I bring power to them. I can't let them down," he affirmed.

He added, "I am Ghana's hope. I have already outlined the broader strokes of my vision. As the campaign advances, numerous Ghanaians have assured me of their support, and I'm not retreating."

Dr. Akoto, a former two-term Member of Parliament, placed fourth in the NPP Special Delegates Conference on Saturday, August 26, 2023.

In the run-up to the NPP's November 4 primary, Dr. Akoto is poised to intensify his campaign efforts while recalibrating his strategies. Over 200,000 party delegates are anticipated to exercise their vote in this highly anticipated electoral event.

Sources close to Dr. Akoto's campaign team suggest he aims to secure more than half of the delegate votes, a crucial milestone in determining the NPP's leadership for the 2024 general elections.
Aug. 30

At 4:33 p.m., officers responded to Smiths at 905 Bridger Drive for a report of a two-vehicle collision. It was reported both vehicles were backing out at the same time and collided. Officers met with the drivers and completed an incident report.

At 8:56 p.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of MM 91 I-80 EB and issued the driver a verbal warning for alleged speeding.

At 9:22 p.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of MM 91 I-80 EB and issued the driver, Johanna R. Smith, of Ohio, a citation for vehicle superintendents speed zone - 6+ miles per hour over.

At 10 p.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of MM 91 I-80 EB and issued the driver a verbal warning for alleged speeding.

At 10:34 p.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of MM 91 I-80 EB and issued the driver a verbal warning for alleged speeding.

Aug. 31

At 1:09 a.m., officers responded to Loaf N Jug at 1325 Bridger Drive for an alarm. It was reported an individual was causing problems and harassing the clerk. Officers located the subject at Wash & Play Laundry at 1315 Bridger Drive and made contact. Officers detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from the subjects breath. Officers ascertained the subject had been previously trespassed from that location. Officers subsequently placed Adrian D. Bodney, of Green River, under arrest and issued citations for alleged trespass - refusing to leave when asked and public intoxication- 3rd or subsequent offense. Officers transported Bodney to the Sweetwater County Detention Center and completed an incident report.

At 8:28 a.m., SROs, while on regular SRO duties, observed students possessing a vaping device. Officers gathered information and issued two juveniles, ages 14 and 16, of Green River, citations for the alleged use or possession of tobacco by a minor. Officers met with the admin and a parent/guardian. Officers gathered information and completed an incident report.

At 9:29 a.m., officers responded to the Bus Barn at 200 Monroe Avenue for a report of a bus light violation that occurred on August 29. Officers gathered information and made contact with the driver. Officers issued the driver, Sage Mahaffey, of Green River, a citation for alleged meeting or passing a stopped school bus. Officers then completed an incident report.

At 12:53 p.m., CSOs responded to a report of property in violation of the City ordinance 17-1(a) Weeds. Officers met with the property owner, advised of the violation, issued a notice to abate, and completed an incident report.

At 1:18 p.m., officers responded to the area of Idaho Street for a report of an individual who appeared to have stashed something in the bushes. Upon arrival, officers located a shoe across the street that had suspected marijuana, a suspected marijuana pipe, and a lighter. Officers gathered information, collected the items, and completed a report of the incident.

At 2:18 p.m., officers responded to a report of an agency assist with Probation and Patrol agents. Officers placed Randy Von Christensen under arrest per an active arrest and hold order. Officers transported Christensen to the Sweetwater County Detention Center and completed an incident report.

At 6:34 p.m., officers responded to the area of Riverview Drive and Aspen Street for a report of a vehicle that struck a deer. Officers gathered information and located the injured deer. Officers dispatched the deer and completed an incident report.

At 8:50 p.m., officers responded to a report of domestic violence. Officers met with individuals involved in a physical altercation. EMS transported one individual to the hospital. Officers gathered information and subsequently placed Nathan Garrett, of Green River, under arrest for alleged child abuse - responsible for child welfare, inflicts physical injury. Officers transported Garrett to the Sweetwater County Detention Center and completed a report of the incident.

At 9:39 p.m., officers responded to a report of a barking dog complaint. Officers met with an individual who reported the dog as a nuisance. Officers met with the dogs owner, advised of the complaint, issued a verbal warning, and completed an incident report.

At 10:50 p.m., officers responded to a report of a larceny. Officers met with an individual who reported that they had caught someone breaking into a vehicle and the subject was last seen running east. Officers canvassed the area but did not locate anyone in the area. Officers gathered information and completed an initial incident report. No items were reported missing.

September 1

At 8:20 a.m., officers responded to a report of threats/harassment. Officers met with an individual who reported receiving threatening messages through Facebook Messenger. Officers gathered information and completed a report of the incident.

At 8:37 a.m., officers responded to a report of a court order violation. Officers met with an individual who reported being contacted by an individual with an active protection order. Officers gathered information and completed a report of the incident.

At 11:49 a.m., CSOs responded to a report of property in violation of the City ordinance 17-1(a) & (b). Officers made contact with the property owner, advised of the violations, issued a notice to abate, and completed a report of the incident.

At 12:28 p.m., officers responded to the area of Lincoln Circle for a report of a found cell phone. Officers met with the owner and returned the phone.

At 4:47 p.m., officers responded to the area of Madison Avenue in regards to a theft. Officers met with an individual who reported items missing that had been left inside a vehicle. Officers gathered information and completed an incident report.

At 6:55 p.m., officers responded to the area of E Teton Boulevard to collect property that was to be held for safekeeping and completed an incident report.

At 7:10 p.m., officers responded to the area of Kentucky Street for a report of vandalism. Officers met with an individual who reported that individuals had been throwing rocks into their yard. Officers met with the subjects responsible, advised of the complaint, gathered information, and completed a report of the incident.

At 7:46 p.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of E Flaming Gorge Way and issued the driver a written warning for alleged speed.

At 8:07 p.m., officers responded to the area of Bridger Drive for a report of possible shots fired. Officers met with individuals who reported that they saw fireworks being lit off. Officers attempted to locate the violators, gathered information, and completed a report of the incident.

At 8:34 p.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of W Virginia Place and issued the driver a written warning for an alleged when headlamps required violation.

At 9:04 p.m., officers responded to a report of domestic violence. Officers met with individuals who were involved in a dispute, gathered information, and completed an incident report.

At 10:29 p.m., officers responded to the area of Blake Street for a report of a disturbance. Officers met with individuals involved in a dispute and an individual who had been bitten by their dog. Officers impounded the dog due to a lack of a current Rabies vaccination record. Officers gathered information and completed a report of the incident.

Sept. 2

At 7:54 a.m., officers responded to the area of MM 90 on Highway 374 for a report of a vehicle that hit a deer. It was reported a vehicle was traveling eastbound into Green River when a deer ran out into the roadway and the vehicle struck the deer. Officers gathered information and completed a report of the incident.

At 1:24 p.m., ACOs responded to a report of a barking dog complaint. Officers met with the reporting party, gathered information, and attempted to make contact with the dogs owner. Officers left a message for the owner to contact animal control and then they completed an incident report.

At 3:11 p.m., officers responded to Smiths Food & Drug located at 905 Bridger Drive for a report of a vehicle with improper license plates. Officers met with an individual about a vehicle regarding a registration violation. Officers gathered information, issued a citation to Amber Merrick, of Green River, for alleged vehicle registration violation - expired or improper registration, and then completed an incident report.

At 6:48 p.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of Evans Street and issued the driver a written warning for alleged speed.

At 7:38 p.m., officers responded to the area of Riverview Drive in reference to a disturbance. Officers met with an individual who reported another individual was being disruptive and caused property damage to a vehicle. Officers gathered information and completed a report of the incident.

Sept. 3

At 12:48 p.m., officers responded to Hitching Post Restaurant at 580 E Flaming Gorge Way for a report of larceny. Officers met with a server who reported a dine-and-ditch. The server reported monetary losses as they were required to pay for the ticket due to company policy. Officers attempted to contact the owner of the restaurant, gathered information, and completed a report of the incident.

At 4:47 p.m., officers responded to the parking lot of Maverik at 59 Uinta Drive for a report of a disturbance. It was reported that a road rage incident had occurred on I-80 and then the vehicles pulled into the Maverik parking lot where the drivers were involved in an altercation and one individual brandished a hatchet. The subject threatened an individual and then left in their vehicle. Officers gathered information and attempted to locate the subject. Officers then completed an initial incident report.

At 6:01 p.m., officers responded to the area of Juniper Street for a report of civil issues. Officers met with an individual who reported concerns regarding a custody agreement. Officers made contact with the other parent, gathered information, and completed a report of the incident.

Sept. 4

At 8:32 a.m., officers responded to the area of MM 4 on HWY 530 for a report of two deceased dogs in the roadway. Officers located a license plate in the roadway and contacted the registered owner. It was reported that a vehicle was traveling northbound. It was raining and dark when the dogs ran into the roadway and the vehicle struck the dogs. The driver stated they observed the dogs to be deceased and proceeded to work. The owner of the dogs was notified and officers completed a report of the incident.

At 9:04 a.m., officers responded to a report of threats/harassment and met with an individual who reported a prior verbal dispute. Officers met with the individuals involved, gathered information, and completed an incident report.

At 11:28 p.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of N 7 W Street and issued the driver a verbal warning for an alleged registration violation.

Sept. 5

At 5:12 a.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of Shoshone Avenue and issued the driver a verbal warning for an alleged stop sign violation.

At 5:24 a.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of Hillcrest Way and issued the driver a verbal warning for an alleged stop sign violation.

At 5:39 a.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of Uinta Drive and issued the driver a written warning for alleged speed.

At 5:40 a.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of Hoover Drive and issued the driver a written warning for alleged speed and headlights - (2) one on each side violation.

At 6:15 a.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of E 2 S Street and issued the driver a verbal warning for alleged headlight and registration violations.

At 8:56 a.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of Monroe Avenue and issued the driver a verbal warning for alleged brake light and registration violations.

At 11:01 a.m., officers responded to Pennsylvania Boulevard for a report of fraud. Officers met with an individual who reported receiving a call from an individual claiming to be from Publishing Clearing House. The caller asked for gift cards to be purchased. The individual did not give any personal information or comply with the callers request. Officers gathered information and completed an incident report.

At 12:46 p.m., officers responded to a report of an individual with an active warrant. Officers met with the individual, confirmed the warrant, and placed Delroy Trujillo, of Green River, under arrest. Officers transported Trujillo to the Sweetwater County Detention Center and completed a report of the incident.

At 1:04 p.m., officers responded to a report of domestic violence. Officers met with the individuals involved in a physical altercation. Officers gathered information and subsequently placed Brian Trotta, of Green River, under arrest for alleged domestic battery - 1st offense. Officers transported Trotta to the Sweetwater County Detention Center and completed an incident report.

At 2:16 p.m., officers responded to a report of an individual threatening other people. Officers met with the individual, confirmed the individual did not possess any weapons, gathered information, and completed an incident report.

At 3:06 p.m., officers responded to E 4 S Street for a report of property damage. Officers met with an individual who reported finding property that had been painted. Officers gathered information and completed an incident report.

At 5:29 p.m., officers responded to Probation and Parole located at 140 Commerce Drive for a report of an individual with an active arrest and hold order. Officers met with the individual, confirmed the order, and placed Rachael Rodriguez, of Rock Springs, under arrest. Officers transported Rodriguez to the Sweetwater County Detention Center and completed a report of the incident.

At 7:04 p.m., officers responded to the intersection of Bridger Drive and Hitching Post Drive for a report of a two-vehicle collision. It was reported one vehicle was stopped at the stop sign on Bridger Drive and another vehicle was traveling west on Bridger Drive approaching the intersection when the second vehicle struck the rear of the first vehicle. Officers met with the drivers, gathered information, and issued the driver of the second vehicle, a juvenile, age 17, of Green River, a citation for alleged inattentive driving with a crash.

At 8:38 p.m., officers responded to the area of Riverview Drive for concerns about the welfare of two dogs. Officers met with the owner of the dogs and gathered information. Officers advised the owner of the current unsanitary living conditions, issued a verbal warning to abate, and completed a report of the incident, which was forwarded to Animal Control.

At 8:40 p.m., officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of Cedar Circle and issued the driver a verbal warning for an alleged tail light violation.
There has been a major dust-up over the past year or so about the materials available to our children in our school libraries and even our county libraries.

While I do not condone or believe that our school libraries are an appropriate place for many of these books, I am far more concerned with the ability of our children to be able to read.

According to the Wyoming Department of Educations WYTOPP scores from school year 2021-2022, only 47.89% of our 3rd graders are reading at a proficient or above proficient level. That means a majority of our children are leaving the 3rd grade not reading proficiently.

Why does this matter?

According to the United States Department of Justice, The link between academic failure and delinquency, violence, and crime is welded to reading failure. Over 70% of inmates in Americas prisons cannot read above a fourth-grade level.

If your child cannot read by the time they leave 3rd grade, they are nearly 6 times more likely to drop out of school and not obtain a high school diploma. High school graduates earn on average $400,000 more in their lifetime compared to those who drop out.

Some may question this opinion and say we can do both. We absolutely can. These two issues are not mutually exclusive. I am simply stating that the noise has been surrounding books, but a more pressing issue is the fact that more than half of children in Wyoming arent reading proficiently.

To me, this seems like our priorities are out of order. Our efforts should be focused on getting our kids to read more and proficiently.

I understand the concern from parents and guardians. The availability of crude, pornographic, and age-inappropriate information being available to our children is not acceptable.

My sense is that we should be working toward getting parents, teachers, administrators, students and others engaged in our childrens reading proficiency. I am encouraging all parents to spend more time with their kids learning how to read and advocating for policies to improve reading proficiency.

In my 8 years of serving the People of Wyoming, I have witnessed school districts, the teachers union, and parents alike rally against screening for reading difficulties including, but not limited to, dyslexia and dysgraphia, as well as pushing to remove or reduce testing from the classroom completely.

We cannot stand by idly and watch our children fall behind. It takes a village! We must continue to screen and test our kids to ensure they are able to read!

Until our children can learn to read proficiently to support a society with less incarceration, higher paying jobs, and less dependency on government, I think our priorities should be better focused. Lets focus on helping the kids learn to read and worry less about banning books!
A Green River native who set his sights on home again is now ready to help the community with their sight.

Dr. Amasa Mecham has joined Dr. Jeffrey Wilson's team at Desert View Eye Care and will be bringing over a decade of experience in optometry back to his home community.

Dr. Mecham grew up in Green River, graduating from Green River High School in 1998. He ran cross country track in college, attending BYU Idaho and the University of Wyoming, where he met his wife. The couple eventually moved to Houston, Texas, where Mecham got a degree in psychology.

"And you can't really do much with a bachelor's degree in psychology," Mecham said with a laugh. "So I ended up going to optometry school at the University of Houston and I got my doctorate in optometry."

After Mecham and his wife had their first children, Mecham made the decision to join the military.

"When I graduated optometry school I went on active duty in the army, where I've been for the last 13 years, and we've kind of been all over with the army," he explained.

Going "all over" took Mecham and his family to upstate New York, North Carolina, and Texas, where Mecham did speciality training and his fellowship in optometry, so he is a residency-trained optometrist. He and his family then spent three years in Germany and the last four years in South Carolina.

"It's been quite the journey," Mecham said of his time in the military.

That journey came to an end about a year ago, however, when Mecham found out he has rheumatoid arthritis and he was medically retired from the army. But that change opened up a new path that led back home.

"We decided it was time to come back home to Wyoming," Mecham explained.

Roughly half a year ago, Mecham started talking with Dr. Wilson at Desert View. The two decided that Mecham was a good fit for the team, and the process to bring him on board started. The team at Desert View started getting things in place so that his arrival and starting work was a smooth transition.

Mecham and his family moved back to Green River at the beginning of August and he started work on the first day of September.

So far, working at Desert View has been going well for Mecham. The optometry itself is easy, he explained, but there are still some adjustments to be made.

"The difficult part is just learning some of the things that they do a little bit different in the civilian world versus the military world," Mecham said.

One of the biggest differences is the patient demographic, which is more diverse in a community than on a military base. Mecham explained that his last job with the army was at a basic training site, so he mostly saw brand new recruits, doing required eye exams and getting them glasses so they could see the targets when they tried to shoot them. Of course, there were times in the military when Mecham saw family members and retirees, but the age range he sees in Green River now is wider and the patients are more diverse than he usually saw in the army.

"I'm looking forward to the new challenges that come with that as well," Mecham said.

Another exciting part of his new job is working with the rest of the team at Desert View.

"They have a great staff here," Mecham said. "That was one of the things that drew me to want to come here is how friendly everyone was and how much they wanted me to be here, which made me feel very welcome when I got here."

The team is definitely thankful to have Mecham - especially Dr. Wilson, who won't be providing services on his own anymore.

"He's super excited because now he gets to take a break every now and then, because we can cover for each other and help each other out," Mecham said.

Even in the first few weeks of Mecham being at Desert View, the two doctors have already been working together on some patients, helping each other out and combining their knowledge and experience.

"Dr. Wilson has a very strong skill set, and hopefully my training and background can bring in some additional skills to help him out," Mecham said. "I think together it's going to be a really great team that we got here."

In addition to being excited for his new job, Mecham is also just excited to be home again. While his parents live in Fort Bridger now, Mecham is happy to be closer to family in general, and he's already having fun running into old friends and people he used to go to school with, including some of the other Desert View staff members.

Since it's been roughly two decades since he was in Green River last, Mecham is having fun seeing what has changed and what has stayed the same, as well as sharing his memories with his children. Now that he's here, one of the changes can be the addition of another skilled optometrist to serve the community.
Growing up in southwestern Wyoming among a wide variety of demanding industries led one of Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County's nurses to strive for national certification.

Registered Nurse Robyn Owens' job at the Family & Occupational Medicine Clinic of Sweetwater Memorial is as varied as her expertise, which now includes national certification through the American Board for Occupational Health Nurses.

"I embarked on this certification because I grew up in this area and I was able to see how much of an impact all of the different industries have on our county," she said. "I always wanted to have some part in it. I've always been so proud to see how hard-working the employees are and how much of what they do has a worldwide reach."

Owens, who has worked for Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County for eight years, finds the variety of care fascinating.

"Each situation in occupational medicine will be very different based on the company, the job, whether it is emergent or non-emergent, and how it will affect the current and the future health of the employee," Owens said. "It includes a really broad range, from oil and gas to construction, from mining and power to beauty salons. The more we can monitor and treat now based on occupation will help improve a person's health in the future."

The Board Certification as a Certified Occupational Health Nurse is one of many National Certifications that registered nurses can apply and test for if qualifications are met, said Ann Clevenger, MHSC Chief Nursing Officer.

"Robyn has been a leader for our Occupational Health Program," Clevenger said. "I thank her and the entire occupational medicine team at MHSC for their dedication to providing the program for our community. Please welcome Robyn to the team of other nurses at MHSC who have worked for and received the honor of national certification."

Owens said Clevenger once challenged her by asking where she would like her nursing career to take her. Owens already had a love of occupational medicine, but knew immediately she wanted to learn more. Challenge accepted.

Certification in occupational health is recognized as an indicator of expertise and leadership, and represents a broad knowledge of the discipline and its application to promote the health and safety of workers, according to the national board. The credential is associated with a level of practice that meets high standards, is proactive, and contributes effectively to both management and workers' goals for a safe and health workplace.

For more on this and all Sweetwater Memorial has to offer at sweetwatermemorial.com.
Sherrill J. Smith, Dean and Professor at Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing, from left, presented the award during the UW Nightingale Ceremony on Wednesday, Aug. 30. Accepting the award are MHSC Education Director Patty O'Lexey, MHSC Women's Health Director Megan Guess and MSHC Obstetrics Clinical Coordinator Amelia Cuevas.

Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County recently was honored with the 2023-24 University of Wyoming Community Partner award from the Basic BSN and BRAND nursing programs of the UW Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing.

"We are very appreciative of the support of Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County this past year," said Sherrill J. Smith, Dean and Professor at Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing. The hospital is "an outstanding community partner who works with our school to bring all of our students' state-of-the-art education in nursing.

"Community partners are vital to the success of our programs and our students," she said. "We are especially appreciative of all the time and effort that Patty (O'Lexey, MHSC Education Director,) and the hospital provided to our group of five BRAND students this past year."

MSHC Chief Nursing Officer Ann Clevenger said these are important partnerships.

"Having nursing students at our facility provides the opportunity for students to learn and us to grow," Clevenger said. "In a rural state like Wyoming, we all work together to create a sustainable nursing workforce to care for our communities."

Smith, from left, presented the award during the Nightingale Ceremony on Wednesday, Aug. 30. Accepting the award are O'Lexey, MHSC Women's Health Director Megan Guess and MSHC Obstetrics Clinical Coordinator Amelia Cuevas.
Motorola unveiled the Edge 40 Pro in April and followed up with the Edge 40 a month later. Today, the company expanded the Edge 40 lineup by announcing the Motorola Edge 40 Neo.

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is powered by the Dimensity 7030 SoC that's paired with up to 12GB of LPDDR4X RAM. It comes with up to 256GB of storage onboard and runs Android 13 out of the box with support for Moto Connect and Ready For.

The smartphone is built around a 6.55" FullHD+ 10-bit pOLED curved display with a 144Hz refresh rate and 360Hz touch sampling rate. It has DCI-P3 coverage and a peak brightness of 1,300 nits. The screen also has HDR10+ certification, a fingerprint reader underneath for biometric authentication, and a centered punch hole for the 32MP selfie camera.

Around the back, we have a camera island housing flash and two cameras - 50MP primary with OIS and 13MP ultrawide with a 120 FOV. The latter has autofocus for macro shots. The Motorola Edge 40 Neo comes in three colors - PANTONE Black Beauty, PANTONE Soothing Sea, and PANTONE Caneel Bay. The black version's rear panel is acrylic, while the back covers of the other two models are made of vegan leather, making them a tad thicker and heavier than the black variant.

The rest of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo's highlights include IP68 rating, 5G support, and NFC. The smartphone also comes with stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos, and fueling the entire package is a 5,000 mAh battery with 68W charging. Motorola says the bundled 68W power adapter can fill the 5,000 mAh cell from flat to 50% in 15 minutes.

Motorola also said that the Edge 40 Neo is "made to last and love," and to reinforce the company's commitment to a more sustainable future, the smartphone is sold in 100% plastic-free packaging, featuring soy ink and 60% recycled materials.



Motorola Edge 40 Neo

The Lenovo-owned brand also partnered with agood company for the Edge 40 Neo's bundled protective case, which comes in corresponding colors. It is entirely bio-degradable and made 100% from plants. And when it's time to change the case, agood will repurpose the old case into something new to avoid wastage.

Motorola Edge 40 Neo with agood's protective cases

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo will be on sale in EMEA from today with a starting price of 399.

The phone will launch in India on September 21 and will be sold through Motorola India's official website, Flipkart, and retail stores across the country.
Five St. Johns School seniors were identified as semifinalists in the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program. They were among the 16,000 semifinalists that were selected by the officials of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
Coast Guard personnel teamed up with seven local agencies from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands for search-and-rescue training last week, according to a news release from the Coast Guard.

Each person here has something valuable to offer; coming together, we can teach and grow. That way, were best prepared for a life-threatening emergency, said Lt. Cmdr. Christine Igisomar, a U.S. Coast Guard search and rescue mission controller and Saipan native. Working and learning together with our CNMI brothers and sisters, we can save the lives of our friends, families, neighbors, and visitors in our wonderful islands.

Building upon the foundations of a search and rescue exercise conducted in 2022, the two-day training near Managaha Island involved more than 40 participants from various agencies, including the Department of Public Safety, Department of Fire and Emergency Management Services, Customs and Biosecurity, Port police and several environmental quality departments.

The exercise began with a simulated 911 call reporting a vessel on fire a few nautical miles off the coast. Six boats carrying over 30 rescue personnel were underway within an hour, implementing the search pattern lessons the U.S. Coast Guard team provided the previous day.

The Coast Guard said that the past 13 months, various search and rescue operations spearheaded by U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam have underscored the importance of preparedness, inter-agency cooperation and international partnerships.

They included:

The medical evacuation of a 50-year-old man experiencing chest pains from Agrihan Island by the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Myrtle Hazard in August 2022, which involved effective communication across multiple jurisdictions.

The February 2023 operation by USCGC Myrtle Hazard between Guam and Rota for three distressed mariners whose boat sank resulted in two lives saved.

The May 2023 operation led by the USCGC Oliver Henry to medically evacuate a 30-year-old man suffering from head and neck injuries due to a speargun accident on Alamagan Island showcased the pivotal importance of medical expertise and tight coordination with local emergency services.

The multi-national rescue of 11 people from a foundering vessel off the coast of Rota in July involved local responders and French, Canadian, and U.S. military assets, highlighting the power of international collaboration.

The August rescue operation and tow for the seven-member crew of the motor vessel Mama Loling undertaken by the USCGC Frederick Hatch.

Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam conducts search and rescue exercises in Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Compact of Free Association states.

These exercises evaluate notification and response procedures and identify communication and coordination shortfalls during search and rescue operations.




Haiti - FLASH Conflict Canal : A Haitian delegation discusses with the Dominicans





Homero Figuereo, Spokesperson for the Dominican Government, informed that the Dominican and Haitian authorities will continue their discussions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MIREX), through the Binational Water Table of the Bilateral Joint Commission (CMB) this Thursday 14 September 2023 (last day of the Dominican ultimatum https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40478-haiti-flashthe-dominican-government-announces-measures-and-issues-an-ultimatum-to-haiti-canal-river-massacre.html )



These discussions will focus on the resumption of the construction of an irrigation canal in Haiti with a water intake on the Massacre River, considered illegal by the Dominicans and the cause of the crisis between the two countries...



The time at which the discussions will resume has not yet been set, Homero Figuereo did not give details of the meeting on Wednesday which was held behind closed doors with 5 Haitian officials whose identity was not revealed and which was chaired by the Deputy Minister of Multilateral Foreign Policy of MIREX, Ruben Arturo Silie Valdez.



In Haiti, the Chancellery confirmed these discussions Wednesday in a brief press release "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs informs the Haitian population that the Haitian and Dominican Governments have decided, by mutual agreement, to meet in Santo Domingo. on Wednesday September 13, 2023, through the Binational Water Table of the Bilateral Joint Commission, in order to find a just and definitive solution to the problem of the equitable use of shared water resources of the Massacre River, in accordance with the requirements of the Peace Treaty , Friendship and Arbitration of February 20, 1929.



The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will keep the population informed of the results of this meeting."



Let's recall that President Luis Abinader announced a series of measures at the border with Dajabon, including "the definitive suspension of the entry of all people involved in the conflict, the temporary cessation of the issuance of visas to Haitian citizens. Maintaining the total closure of the border through Dajabon and if the conflict is not resolved before this Thursday, the complete closure of the border by land, sea and air."



The Dominican Chamber of Deputies approved on Wednesday a draft resolution which supports the executive power to exhaust all diplomatic channels, as well as to take all necessary measures in relation to the crisis generated by the construction of the canal on the Haitian side.



Even if economically the neighboring Republic will feel the effects, the closure of the four border crossings and the land, sea and air border will be a hard blow for Haitian businesses and the thousands Haitians who participate every week in bilateral markets...



Read also on the Haiti Irrigation Canal affair :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40478-haiti-flash-the-dominican-government-announces-measures-and-issues-an-ultimatum-to-haiti-canal-river-massacre.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/article-40492-haiti-conflit-canal-une-delegation-haitienne-en-republique-dominicaine-heure.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40478-haiti-flashthe-dominican-government-announces-measures-and-issues-an-ultimatum-to-haiti-canal-river-massacre.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-40476-icihaiti-diversion-canal-tension-rises-in-the-dominican-republic.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40463-haiti-flash-4th-day-of-border-closure-in-dajabon-the-standoff-continues.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40450-haiti-flash-diversion-channel-the-dominican-republic-sends-armored-vehicles-to-the-northern-border-with-haiti.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40406-haiti-politic-the-dr-asks-haiti-to-stop-the-resumption-of-work-on-the-diversion-channel-of-the-massacre-river.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-36174-haiti-politic-claude-joseph-deplores-the-stoppage-of-the-construction-of-the-irrigation-canal-of-the-massacre-river.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34875-icihaiti-rd-resumption-of-works-of-the-massacre-river-irrigation-canal.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34389-icihaiti-dr-stop-in-haiti-of-the-construction-of-the-canal-to-collect-water-from-the-massacre-river.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-33974-haiti-dr-the-construction-of-the-haitian-canal-on-the-massacre-river-on-the-way-to-becoming-an-international-affair.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-33953-haiti-flash-dominican-geologist-osiris-de-leon-denies-haiti-s-assertions.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-33945-haiti-flash-canal-on-the-massacre-river-in-haiti-dominican-president-abinader-raises-the-tone.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-33854-haiti-flash-president-abinader-announces-the-construction-of-a-dam-on-the-artibonite-river-in-dominican-soil.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-33823-haiti-agriculture-diversion-of-the-massacre-river-in-search-of-a-solution-with-the-dr.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-33596-haiti-flash-conflict-with-the-dr-over-a-canal-diverting-the-massacre-river-to-haiti.html



SL/ TB/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





The UN plans to train the FAdH

The United Nations is analyzing the possibility of making a decision in concert with Haiti with a view to training the FAd'H Armed Forces, the Argentine Minister of Defense indicated on Tuesday on the sidelines of a forum on Peace missions in Buenos Aires. Defense Minister Enold Joseph who is participating in the meeting must plead in favor of this assistance to the Haitian Army.



A man stabbed by a woman in a public market

Smith Wesh was stabbed in the abdomen by a woman at the Beaumont Public Market following an altercation. Note that this commune of GrandAnse has had no police presence since the fire at the police station in 2018.



Despite the threats, construction of the canal continues

Despite the threats and the ultimatum of the Dominican State https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40478-haiti-flash-the-dominican-government-announces-measures-and-issues-an-ultimatum-to-haiti-canal-river-massacre.html, the farmers of the Maribaroux plain are continuing the construction of the 2.5 km long canal in Haiti which will be fed by the Massacre River... See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-40497-haiti-flash-conflict-canal-a-haitian-delegation-discusses-with-the-dominicans.html



At least 16 police stations in the hands of gangs

According to a report from the National Platform for the Progress of Human Rights, 16 police stations and sub-branches of the National Police of Haiti (PNH) in the West and Artibonite departments are under the control of armed gangs.



CSS : Names of the 3 elected unionists

Pierre Joseph Polycarpe, Mackenson Desardouin and James Prince are the three trade unionists designated to represent workers within the Superior Wages Council, following the elections held last Sunday with the participation of six trade union organizations.



Haiti speaking at MESICIC

Wednesday September 13, 2023, Hans Joseph, Director General of the Anti-Corruption Unit (ULCC), Principal Expert for Haiti, "I am participating in the 40th Meeting of the Committee of Experts of the Inter-American Convention against Corruption (MESICIC), shared before the MESICIC Committee of Experts in Washington, the experiences, developments and activities carried out by the Government of Haiti on the prevention and management of conflicts of interest in public administration."



HL/ HaitiLibre


















By William Schwartz | Published on 2023/09/13

The notion of "Mr. Sunshine" being historically inaccurate isn't new. The wildly popular show received its fair share of criticism at the time for such distortions. But that was five years ago. Being easily available on Netflix, "Mr. Sunshine" is now casually recommended by the streaming service's algorithm, its misinformation now being virtually unstoppable. As with most effective misinformation, "Mr. Sunshine" is problematic less for its assertions than its implications, and gunboat diplomacy is a great place to start as far as that goes.

Advertisement

The early nineteenth century marked the start of the Century of Humiliation for China. The short version of this story is that the Western powers started trading opium with China, and when the Chinese government tried to make them stop, the Western powers went to war to force the opium to keep flowing. Great Britain was the most important belligerent, the First Opium War starting in 1839, but over time every Western power got involved. The Century of Humiliation marked the end of historical Chinese power and destroyed the lives of China's people.

Adjacent to all this, Matthew Perry, a major leader in the United States Navy, visited Japan in 1852 with a naval fleet, and quite literally threatened to destroy Japanese cities if Japan didn't accede to similar diplomatic terms China had already been forced to endure. While Matthew Perry isn't that well-known figure in American history, he's a pivotal one in Japanese history. His actions prompted the Bakumatsu period and eventually the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the belief in Japan being that without modernizing reforms, it was only a matter of time before they became the next China.

"Mr. Sunshine" doesn't get into any of this. But given how the drama frames itself around the General Sherman Incident of 1866, and the subsequent 1871 United States expedition to Korea, you can perhaps see how this context is relevant. Where "Mr. Sunshine" portrays friendly Americans just wanting to conduct innocent trade in Korea, only to be unjustly attacked by psychotic xenophobes in the government, this isn't how Koreans at the time would have seen their actions.

Even Americans at this time wouldn't have seen their actions this way. Nineteenth century westerners weren't exactly shy when it came to their belief in the moral superiority of white supremacy. Of course, the weirdly positive, even glowing impression "Mr. Sunshine" gives regarding the United States is a topic in and of itself- which I'll discuss in the next iteration of this series.

Written by William Schwartz

___________

"Mr. Sunshine" is directed by Jang Yeong-woo, Jung Ji-hyun, Lee Eung-bok, written by Kim Eun-sook, and features Lee Byung-hun, Kim Tae-ri, Yoo Yeon-seok, Kim Min-jung, Byun Yo-han, Jo Woo-jin. Broadcasting information in Korea: 2018/07/07~2018/09/30, Fri, Sat 21:00 on Netflix, tvN.
Login or sign up to follow actresses, movies & dramas and get specific updates and news

Login Sign Up

 New Ad-free Subscriber Login

Email

Password

Password Username Subscribe to our daily NewsLetter Your E-mail will only be used to retrieve a lost password or receive our NewsLetter.

Stay logged in

Lost password

Contact
After a construction journey spanning from 2019, the Musiikkitalo Concert Hall's organ facade has been completed, transforming it into a visually stunning masterpiece that rivals iconic structures like the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. Designed by Rieger Orgelbaun 's organ designer Harald Schwarz and CEO Wendelin Eberle , the one-of-a-kind facade itself is a work of art. The handcrafted Rieger concert hall organs, embodying a blend of 124 voices and cutting-edge technology, are set to be fully operational by January 1, 2024.

These extraordinary organs boast 124 exceptional voices and incorporate state-of-the-art technology. In a departure from tradition, some of the air channels within the organs have been brought to the forefront as visual elements. The curved elements of the facade consist of resonating pipes and air channels, with a total of approximately 260 meters of wooden composite pipes and channels, highlighting the grandeur of this musical instrument. In terms of size, these organs rank among the world's largest modern concert hall organs. What sets them apart is the inclusion of two playing consoles, one mechanically linked to the organ and the other freely movable on the orchestra stage.

The finishing, tuning, and testing of the organs will continue throughout the coming autumn. The grand inauguration of the organs is scheduled for January 1, 2024, with a performance by the acclaimed French organist, Olivier Latry. In 2024, Musiikkitalo will host nearly 30 concerts and events featuring these magnificent organs. The coordination of organ activities in Musiikkitalo Concert Hall is overseen by the Musiikkitalon Urut Soimaan ry association, and the schedule of concerts and events can be found on their website, www.urutsoimaan.fi.

The idea of installing organs in the Musiikkitalo Concert Hall dates back to its construction phase in 2011, driven by the desire of the symphony orchestras based at the hall to have organs as part of their repertoire. However, due to resource constraints, the organs were not initially built. The dream became a reality in 2017 when composer Kaija Saariaho generously donated one million euros to the Musiikkitalo Foundation for the construction of the organs. This donation was followed by project funding from various stakeholders, including the City of Helsinki, YLE (the Finnish Broadcasting Company), the Ministry of Education and Culture, and 1.7 million euros in donations from seven different foundations and funds. The total funding for the project amounts to 4.4 million euros.

Upon unveiling the project, the Musiikkitalo Foundation initiated a campaign for naming organ pipes, which has raised over 200,000 euros for organ music, producing organ programs, and events. The campaign is still ongoing. An exclusive preview performance of the concert hall organs will take place on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at 11 AM for all supporters who have purchased named organ pipes.

HT
The order applies to around 109,000 foxes and 6,000 common raccoon dogs, bringing the total number of fur-bearing animals to be culled to 250,000.

THE FINNISH FOOD AUTHORITY has ordered fur farms with confirmed avian influenza infections to cull all their foxes and common raccoon dogs over public health concerns arising from the infections.

The longer viruses can circulate in mammals, the higher the risk for mutations that can cause infections also in humans. Concerning mutations that make it easier for the virus to transmit to mammals have so far been detected in the viral genome isolated from animals at six farms. The mutations have been detected in minks, foxes and raccoon dogs, the authority said in a press release on Wednesday.

The Finnish Food Authority also revealed that genome sequencing assays have provided support for indications that the virus has spread not only from birds to fur-bearing animals, but also between fur-bearing animals at the farms. Because the severity of symptoms in infected animals can vary significantly, it is necessary to conduct inspections also at farms where no infections have been detected.

The spread of the avian influenza in mammals poses a threat to human health particularly during the regular influenza season, as fur-bearing animals  especially minks  that are simultaneously infected with both viruses could produce a new virus capable of transmitting to humans and, potentially, causing a new pandemic.

Avian influenza infections have been detected at 26 fur farms in Ostrobothnia. The Finnish Food Authority has previously ordered 11 of these to cull all their animals and five to cull some of their animals.

All these farms have now been ordered to cull their remaining animals.

Finnish Fur Breeders Association (Fifur) on Wednesday said the culling order is a heavy blow to fur farms.

A large share of these are healthy animals. This is a very harsh decision for the farms, Olli-Pekka Nissinen, the head of communication at Fifur, stated to Helsingin Sanomat. Therell inevitably be temporary and permanent lay-offs at the farms that have received a culling order.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
Support for the opposition party stands consequently at 21.6 per cent, 0.6 points higher than support for the National Coalition and 3.2 points higher than the Finns Party.

THE SOCIAL DEMOCRATIC PARTY has consolidated its lead in opinion polls despite only seeing a bump of 0.1 percentage points in popular support in the past month, reveals the latest poll by Helsingin Sanomat .

The Finns Party has seen its popularity slide in every poll commissioned by the daily newspaper since the parliamentary elections in April, to the total tune of 1.7 points. The National Coalition contrastively saw its popularity increase in the wake of the elections and continues to poll above its vote share despite the recent dip.

Kantar Public interviewed 2,456 people for the poll between 14 August and 8 September.

The polling period coincided with the presentation of the government statement on promoting equality and non-discrimination and lawmakers expressing their confidence in Minister of Finance Riikka Purra (PS) and Minister of Economic Affairs Wille Rydman (PS), who had come under scrutiny for their past racist comments.

The Social Democratic Party, in turn, chose Antti Lindtman as its new chairperson in place of former Prime Minister and Member of Parliament Sanna Marin.

Sakari Nurmela, the research director at Kantar Public, told Helsingin Sanomat that Finns Party and National Coalition supporters seem to be uncertain about their allegiances or moving to the sidelines in growing numbers. The Social Democratic Party has contrastively managed to reactivate its supporters over the past month.

Quite a lot has to happen for people to switch camps even though it does appear to be more common today than it was 15, 20 or 25 years ago, said Nurmela. If unpleasant things pop up, people prefer to move to the sidelines for a moment.

In the 2019 parliamentary elections, he reminded, the Finns Party managed to win over blue-collar voters at the expense of the Social Democrats. With the roles now reversed and the populist right-wing party in the ruling coalition, it will be interesting to monitor if some of the voters re-instate their support for the Social Democrats.

Elsewhere, the Centre saw its popularity rise by 0.3 points to 9.8 per cent, Green League by 0.5 points to 8.6 per cent, the Left Alliance by 0.3 points to 8.3 per cent and the Christian Democrats by 0.4 points to 4.1 per cent. Both the Swedish Peoples Party and Movement Now recorded a loss of 0.2 points, the former slipping to 4.2 per cent and the latter to 1.8 per cent.

Support for the right-wing ruling coalition has thus continued to decline, standing presently at 47.7 per cent.

Slightly over a quarter (27%) of the survey respondents were unable or unwilling to say which party they would vote for, or said they would abstain from voting altogether, if the elections were held today.

The survey results have a margin of error of 2.0 points for the most popular parties.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
In a surge of interest in higher education programs, Vaasa University of Applied Sciences (VAMK) has witnessed a remarkable influx of applicants, with their English-taught Engineering program, Energy Technology, emerging as the most sought-after choice. As the autumn joint application period for higher education institutions came to a close on September 14, 2023, VAMK received a staggering 4,970 applications for this program alone.

VAMK, offering a total of 210 study places for two Bachelor level and three Master level programs, has garnered widespread attention, with a grand total of 5,594 applications submitted during this joint application period.

Nationally, these numbers reflect a larger trend, with a preliminary count of 56,089 applicants for Bachelor's and Master's degree programs across all Finnish universities.

Energy Technology Shines Bright

The undeniable star of this application period at VAMK has been the Bachelor level Engineering program, Energy Technology. An astounding 85% of all applications were directed towards this program, with a considerable portion of these applications originating from Asian countries.

Juha Vierola, Head of VAMK's student services, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "Energy Technology is organized for the second time, and it clearly interests applicants both internationally and nationally. We are extremely pleased with the number of applications and happy with the diverse backgrounds of the applicants."

Sirpa Rutanen, Head of Communications and Marketing at VAMK, attributed the rise in applications from target markets like India and the UAE to effective agent cooperation.

New Admission Requirements

Notably, this round of the national joint application introduced significant changes in admission requirements. Among these changes are the mandatory submission of a language certificate and a biometric passport, prerequisites for taking the entrance exam. These requirements are applicable to all Universities of Applied Sciences in Finland.

Commencement of Studies

The selected students will embark on their academic journey in January 2024. For Bachelor level studies, the entrance exams are scheduled for November 1st, with detailed information about exam sessions, locations, and additional information available on Studyinfo.fi.

The results of the autumn 2023 joint application are set to be unveiled no later than November 24th. Students granted a study placement must confirm their acceptance by December 1st at 3 pm. Acceptance from the waiting list will remain open until December 12th at 3 pm.

The fortunate students chosen to pursue their academic aspirations will commence their studies in January 2024, either at the Palosaari campus or through online platforms.
The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) has sounded the alarm, branding the European Union a "toxic warehouse" for hosting child sexual abuse material and urging Finnish lawmakers to take swift action against this disturbing trend. Criminal gangs have found a haven in EU member states, where they host abhorrent criminal imagery of children enduring sexual abuse, rape, and torture.

New data released by the IWF today reveals a troubling 26% increase in the hosting of child sexual abuse material within the EU this year compared to the same period last year. Finland, in particular, has experienced a shocking 35% increase during this period. The IWF warns that it only takes a few rogue image hosts for this dangerous content to establish a foothold.

The data also highlights a startling 54% surge in the most extreme forms of child sexual abuse material, classified as Category A material. This category includes depictions of rape, bestiality, sadism, and sexual torture. Between January 1 and August 25 of this year, the IWF identified a staggering 101,988 webpages hosting child sexual abuse material within EU member states, a sharp increase from the 80,977 pages discovered during the same period in 2022.

Out of the webpages identified this year, 21,651 contained Category A material, marking a concerning 54% rise compared to the same period last year when 14,094 such webpages were found.

Susie Hargreaves OBE, Chief Executive of the IWF, strongly urged EU lawmakers to address this worsening situation promptly and lend their support to forthcoming legislation aimed at curbing the spread of online child sexual abuse material. She stated, "If these were warehouses full of drugs or weapons, there would be instant action to rid countries of these ruthless criminal gangs. It should be no different with child sexual abuse material."

Hargreaves continued, "These gangsters are turning the continent into a toxic warehouse for this dangerous criminal content. The EU must now pass vital legislation to prevent the spread of child sexual abuse material. Failing to do so will only ensure the situation continues to worsen, and will send a clear message to criminals and abusers that the EU is a safe place for them to operate. This must not be allowed to happen."

The European Union has consistently ranked high on the IWF's list of the worst places for hosting child sexual abuse material, with the Netherlands notably singled out for its hosting of criminal imagery. In 2023 alone, the IWF confirmed the presence of 75,251 webpages hosting such content in the Netherlands, a staggering 107% increase compared to the same period in 2022.

Even countries not previously associated with hosting such material are witnessing alarming escalations. Germany has seen a 150% increase in the hosting of child sexual abuse material, with 9,862 URLs detected between January 1, 2023, and August 25, compared to 3,944 during the same period in 2022. Estonia's situation is even more distressing, with a shocking 4,000% increase in hosted material, rising from only four webpages during the same period in 2022 to 164 in 2023.

Ms. Hargreaves emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Countries need to know that all it takes is a couple of bad image hosts to wash up on their shores. That's all they need to take rootand soon they will be the destination of choice. There is no room for complacency. We must stamp this out now and send a strong message."

The IWF encourages the public to report any child sexual abuse images or videos anonymously on their website, providing the exact URL where the material is located. Additionally, immediate concerns for a child's safety should be reported to the police. The organization also advises against repetitive reporting of the same URL to avoid wasting analysts' time.

HT
A GROUP of people from the Henley area have had to cancel a fundraising trek in Morocco following the earthquake tragedy.

They were due to climb 4,167m Mount Toubkal on Tuesday in aid of the Chiltern Centre, a Henley charity which supports young adults with learning disabilities.

The trip has been postponed following the powerful earthquake in the High Atlas mountain range, which has killed at least 2,800 people and injured 2,500 and flattened historical buildings and villages.

The trekkers include Lynne Lambourne, an environmental campaigner and interior designer from Peppard, Ben Ansell, also from Peppard, Marco Barcella, Matt Mackinnon and Jenny Williamson, from Henley, Marc Gross, from Caversham, Nick Steel, from Wargrave, and Jane Ainslie, from Wokingham.

Ms Lambourne said she was practically in tears when she found out she couldnt go but is determined to reschedule.

She said: The region has been so badly affected and it is just not safe, especially as the epicentre is so close to Toubkal. The sherpas and community out there are affected. Three British people currently on a trek are missing. It is all a bit close to home. Thank God we were not there this week.

Ms Lambourne said she was really disappointed to have to postpone.

You hype yourself up for something and its only when its taken away that you realise how much you were looking forward to it, she said.

I had done so many hours of training that Ive now got to keep it up until June. I did 22km on Saturday and was feeling good about it. Now at least I can rest a bit.

We were talking about it all weekend and we agreed not to cancel and hopefully it will be all open again by June. We are keen on going back because they rely on us going for their livelihoods.

To prepare for the challenge, Ms Lambourne has been walking, swimming and getting treatment for a heel problem.

She said: I have been helped a lot by Physiolistic. I attend a local gym, ADVHQ, and do yoga and swimming. I have found swimming for my Achilles heel has been really good.

I eat healthily anyway and I have been walking like Forrest Gump all over the country. The training has given me a real love for walking. I walked for nine hours on Saturday with my friends. It is lovely to be in nature and costs no money except a good pair of boots which I bought second-hand.

When we go out there, we want to support the sherpas and promote that its okay to go to Morocco again and get on with our challenge  getting up that mountain.

She has raised almost 3,000 so far, including 500 from an auction held at the Unicorn Pub in Peppard Common on September 1.

Ms Lambourne said: I would like to thank all the kind companies who put community at the heart of what they do and were only too happy to help support me and my mission to raise as much money as possible for a worthy cause.

The Unicorn was so supportive, letting me use the marquee to host my event and the super talented Adam Isaac agreed to give up some of his time to come and play us some songs which really made the night very special.

Everybody knows that I am a massive advocate for sustainability but sustainability is not just about not using single-use plastic, its about communities coming together to support each other, its about kind companies valuing their customers and wanting to help make a difference.

I cant thank the people and companies who have supported me enough, you are so appreciated. 

To support Ms Lambourne, visit her JustGiving page at https://tinyurl.

com/258bjsze
SHOPPERS are being urged to boycott a disgusting pop-up shop in Henley.

The Phone Clinic and American Candy Shop has moved into the former M&Co premises in Bell Street.

It sells limited edition sweets, fizzy drinks and vapes as well as energy drinks and a selection of phone cases, second-hand mobile phones and accessories.

The business is run by Khadim Hussain, 36, from Slough, who has a three-month lease on the unit and has placed red signage on top of the old facade.

Town councillors say the shop is encouraging children to buy overpriced items that are bad for them or harmful to the environment.

Deputy Mayor Kellie Hinton said the shop looked absolutely disgusting.

Speaking at a meeting of the town councils town and community committee, she said: I dont think its right that we have three places in Bell Street alone where kids can go and pick up extortionately priced imported American sweets, phone cases from wherever  probably China because they are so cheap  and disposable vapes.

I dont think it ties in with anything we are trying to do to save the environment. I dont think it is very green. I dont think its healthy for our children. My own children are personal targets.

Once you go inside the doors, which my children forced me to do, it is marginally better than the disgusting window displays.

I also think it looks disgusting with the red advertising tape around it. I looked up and felt I was in Reading, not Henley. Perhaps in the first instance a gentle nudge from our town centre manager might help them go the right way about things because I dont like them here. I dont want them here and I dont think Im the only one who feels that way.

I think as a town we should do our best to keep businesses like this out. Either fix up, look good, or b****r off.

Town centre manager Paul Carey said he had been in touch with the buildings owners who had assured him that the lease was only temporary and Mr Hussain would not be there beyond Christmas.

He added: They saw it as more of a security measure for the building so there is someone in there as it is a large unit that could be broken into while they find a permanent long-term tenant.

They have got lots of ideas. They want to find the right tenant for it.

Cllr Hinton replied: I dont want them to sell vapes that look like sweets. They are coloured like sweets, they are flavoured like watermelon and strawberry.

I dont approve of it. I find the whole thing incredibly uncomfortable  there are lots of children here and I just want it gone.

Councillor Gill Dodds said: The real answer is to boycott. Tell your kids not to go there.

If nobody goes there they will only be there a couple of weeks. Just dont go there and the whole place will close.

Councillor Ian Reissmann said: The town council deplores the look and feel of the place and products that it sells and we make it clear we dont support that. Cllr Dodds correctly says that we hope no one goes in the shop.

Mr Hussain told the Henley Standard that he would be willing to change the signage if he was told to do so.

Prime Retail Property is continuing to advertise the premises.
Chinese companies have been taking the lead in offering clean energy solutions globally. Their innovative solar generators, appliances and clean energy solutions got full recognition from their overseas counterparts, and attracted lots of visitors and other exhibitors at the expo. by Xinhua writers Tan Jingjing, Gao Shan, Huang Heng LAS VEGAS, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese companies took the spotlight at North America's leading clean energy expo held in Las Vegas, U.S. state of Nevada, this week, expanding their influence and opportunities on the global market. The expo, named "RE+ 2023," draws over 30,000 attendees and more than 1,300 exhibitors around the globe, showcasing the latest equipment, technologies and best practices in clean energy sectors. Over 300 Chinese companies are participating in the four-day expo, ranging from solar, energy storage, hydrogen, to EV infrastructure, microgrids, wind and more, the expo organizer told Xinhua. Many well-known Chinese new energy technology companies were on the show floor, including CATL, BYD, CALB, Gotion and DESAY, together with lots of startups. Chinese companies have been taking the lead in offering clean energy solutions globally. Their innovative solar generators, appliances and clean energy solutions got full recognition from their overseas counterparts, and attracted lots of visitors and other exhibitors at the expo. Gotion, a leading power battery technology company, joined "RE+ 2023" with an array of clean energy solutions, including residential, commercial and industrial, as well as utility scale energy storage systems. "RE+ offers a good opportunity to boost our brand awareness in the clean energy field in North America, and also helps us to strengthen connections with our North American and global customers," Jason Hao, director of market and business development of Gotion, told Xinhua. He said Gotion attaches great importance to the development of overseas markets, and has been adopting different strategies in response to industry policies in different regions. Earlier this month, Gotion and the U.S. state of Illinois jointly announced a new 2 billion U.S. dollars electric vehicle lithium battery manufacturing plant in Manteno, Illinois. The plant is expected to begin production in 2024. Hao told Xinhua that Gotion expects to expand its market share on the North America market through localized production and supply chain strategies. For Xiamen Ampace Technology Limited, this is the company's first time to participate in the "RE+" expo with its own brand. The company showcased an array of innovative energy storage solutions at "RE+ 2023," including commercial and industrial energy storage solutions, residential energy storage solution and uninterruptible power supply systems. Ampace's residential energy storage solution products have accounted for about 30 percent of the global market share, encompassing safety, reliability, operational costs, flexibility, energy density, and intelligent integration, Ethan Wei, director of business development of Ampace's Energy Storage System, told Xinhua. With Europe, Japan and North America as Ampace's three main overseas markets, the company is also expanding businesses on emerging developing markets, such as South Africa, according to Wei. "We hope to take the opportunity of RE+, the largest exhibition in the new energy industry, to better contact with our customers from all over the world, and reach out to more potential partners," he told Xinhua. "We hope to combine our company's advantages in product manufacturing, product research and development, and quality control, with our overseas customers' brands and their sales channels, to offer more China-made high-quality products globally, to contribute to the global clean energy industry," Wei said. Bluetti Power Inc., a clean energy startup, showcased their all-in-one home backup solution, energy storage system, and expandable portable power stations at the expo, with its 9000w energy storage system, named EP900, as a highlight. EP900 features 9000w output, 9000w input and a maximum capacity of 19.8kwh. With an intelligent battery management system and reliable lithium iron phosphate battery pack, the equipment gives its optimal performance regardless of weather conditions, according to the company. Chunjun Wang, vice president of business development of Bluetti, told Xinhua that China enjoys advantages in the clean energy sector both in terms of technologies and production capacities. "We should maintain our advantage through sustainable development." "We need to better understand our customers, their habits, needs, different application scenarios. Based on that information, we should upgrade our products with more advanced technologies, and offer customers with safer, more convenient and more environmentally friendly products," Wang said. In an interview with Xinhua, Xiang Zheng, vice president of CALB, stressed the importance of innovation. Innovation-driven development has helped to lay a solid foundation for Chinese companies to stay ahead in the global clean energy market, he said. Chinese exhibitors always bring the latest technology to North America's leading clean energy expo, the expo's organizer told Xinhua. "RE+ 2023," running from Monday to Thursday, offers a platform for companies, professionals and educators from around the world to share best practices in clean energy solutions and expand business prospects.


(JTA)  Days after Elon Musk threatened to sue the Anti-Defamation League for billions of dollars and amplified a hashtag spread by white supremacists, the ADLs CEO, Jonathan Greenblatt, praised Musks business acumen but called his behavior frustrating and said he was spreading age-old tropes around blaming Jews for antisemitism.

Ive always tried to treat Elon and everyone at the company with respect and forthright manner and a constructive approach. I would do that again, Greenblatt told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency.

The truth is that he has been, Elon Mu...
This story originally appeared on The Nosher.

Most of my American Jewish friends ate brisket, kugel and babka at their family High Holiday feasts. I often imagined what that would be like, curious about the dishes that were so popular with my friends but were never served in my own home. In my Soviet immigrant family, our holiday meals looked quite different.

Typically, my maternal grandmother, Mira, hosted both Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur at her home. These meals always had a very specific four-course order. The conversations were lively, imperfect, raucously joyous - sometimes tears we...
(JNS) - Dutch forensic investigators have identified the remains of a man executed by the Nazis in the Netherlands eight decades ago as that of a Jewish resistance hero after locating a cousin in Australia, investigators said on Wednesday.

Bernard Luza, 39, was killed by a firing squad in 1943 after he and hundreds of other Jews were arrested following a raid on a factory in northern Amsterdam on Nov. 11, 1942. His body was discovered in 1945 in a grave with four others, buried at a shooting range near Schiphol Airport.

Two of the bodies were quickly identified, while a third was named in...
(JNS) - This High Holiday season, Jewish singles will seek soulmates in Miami Beach, Fla., in between shofar blasts and dipping apples in honey.

Sam Intrator, a Modern Orthodox rabbi, is planning the latest iteration of his annual High Holiday events, which his organization KavanahLife Singles has hosted in Miami Beach since 2017.

Singles will gather for Rosh Hashanah from Sept. 15-17 at the Holiday Inn Miami Beach-Oceanfront. The organization has also hosted singles events in Phoenix and Baltimore, although it hosted no events-High Holidays or otherwise-in 2020 and 2021, due to COVID-19...
(JNS)  Israels National Unity Party leader Benny Gantz on Tuesday dismissed as spin Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus call for compromise talks regarding the governments judicial reform plan.

The former defense minister and leading opposition figure made the statement minutes after Netanyahu published a video message urging Gantz to put aside all the prerequisites, all the obstacles, enter the room and talk.

Saying that the Israeli government had been captured by extremists, Gantz called for Netanyahu to dissolve the Knesset and head to a new round of elect...
Led by Rabbi Joshua Neely for 13 years, Temple Israel's growing congregation looks forward to the High Holiday season with guest cantor Teron Cohen. Cantor Cohen has worked in Switzerland, Canada, Germany, Israel, and the U.S.

High Holiday tickets for live stream or in-person services are a $180 donation and free with reservations for those under 18, students, armed services personnel, and members in good standing of other synagogues. If you are under 35 and interested in becoming a member, your $180 donation covers dues for the year. Those over 35 can apply the $180 to dues. Contact the...
Two Neo-Nazi groups marched in Altamonte Springs and outside the entrance to Disney Springs shopping center on Saturday, Sept. 2. Dressed in red shirts, black pants and black masks, 51 members of the Goyim Defense League and the Blood Tribe, who called the antisemitic demonstration "March of the Redshirts," walked from Sanlando Park to Cranes Roost Park, about a mile and a half away chanting "White power," "Jews will not replace us," and "We are everywhere."

Blood Tribe, founded by former U.S. Marine Christopher Polhaus in 2021, regards Hitler as a deity and does not allow female members. I...
A protester holds a picture of Mahsa Amini, the Kurdish woman whose death in the custody of Iran's "morality police" has sparked widespread unrest.

By Rolene Marks

(JNS) - September 16th marks the one-year anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody in Iran. The Iranian "morality police" arrested Amini, a 22-year-old woman from Kurdistan, for allegedly not wearing her hijab correctly.

Iranian police said that Amini died after falling ill in custody and slipping into a coma. Her death resulted in mass protests across Iran, with many women refusing to wear the hijab. These protests were supported by many around the world; and the slogan "Women Life Freedom" became a clarion call.

To coincide with the anniversary, a socia...
On Wednesday, Sept. 6, the Jewish Chamber of Commerce hosted a Rosh Hashanah-themed breakfast at Toojays, which brought together members of the community for a morning of camaraderie and goodwill. From 8 to 10 a.m., attendees indulged in a breakfast spread while also contributing to a noble cause. Participants brought diapers and canned goods to support the Jewish Family Services.

The event featured a presentation by Aaron Bernstein, the Development director at Jewish Family Services, who shared insights into the vital work the organization does in the community. Nancy Ludin, the CEO of the...
(JTA)  Libyan Foreign Minister Najla Mangoush has been fired and has fled to Turkey following a meeting last week with Israels foreign minister, Eli Cohen.

Libya and Israel do not have diplomatic relations, and when he first announced the meeting on Sunday, Cohen hailed it as another breakthrough in Israels growing ties with its neighbors. Israel normalized relations with several Arab countries in 2020 under the framework of the Abraham Accords, and is now publicly exploring an agreement with Saudi Arabia.

The Israel-Libya meeting, which took place in Rome last week, seemed to fall...
Acting U.S. Ambassador Stephanie Hallett, Bahraini Ambassador Khaled Yousif al-Jalahma and Start-Up Nation Central CEO Avi Hasson at the Start-Up Nation Central offices in Tel Aviv, Sept. 7, 2023.

(JNS) - A peace deal with Israel is a clear Saudi interest and will likely lead to further accords with additional Muslim countries, the acting American ambassador to Israel said Thursday.

The remarks by Stephanie Hallett, the charge d'affaires at the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem, were the latest indication that American-led negotiations to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia are in high gear, with an accord thought possible in early 2024.

"Saudi Arabia is the preeminent target of the expansion of the Abraham Accords," said Hallett. "It's clear it is in Saudi Arabia's interes...
The Orlando Chapter of Hadassah announces its Meet the Author Luncheon, featuring Kristin Harmel, local acclaimed author of The Forest of Vanishing Stars, The Book of Lost Names, and her latest bestseller, The Paris Daughter.

This event, which includes a catered luncheon, a discussion, and Q&A with the author, will be held on Oct. 3, 11:30 a.m., Congregation Ohev Shalom, Maitland. Attendees will have an opportunity to gain insight into Harmels creative process and learn more about her inspiration for her new book.

General Admission: Bronze: $36; Silver: $54; and Gold:...
(JNS) - A cache of weapons believed to have been hidden by Jews during their revolt against the Romans nearly two millennia ago has been uncovered in the Judean Desert, the Israel Antiquities Authority announced on Wednesday.

The cache, comprising four well-preserved 1,900-year-old Roman swords and a shafted weapon, were found in a crevice in a cave in the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve near the Dead Sea about two months ago. They were apparently hidden by Judean rebels after being seized from the Roman army, according to researchers.

"We're talking about an extremely rare find, the likes of whic...
(JNS)  Almost three years have elapsed since the signing of the Abraham Accords on the White House lawn. Everything appeared to be progressing smoothly until last month, when a planned visit of Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen to Bahrain was postponed due to scheduling issues.

This set off concerns that Israels relationship with Manama is unstable. Critics at the time blamed the alleged cooling of relations on Israels security policy in Judea and Samaria, conflicts between Israelis and Palestinians in Huwara and incidents like the ascent of government ministers to the Temp...
(JTA)  Nearly one in three current Jewish college students has witnessed or experienced some form of antisemitism on campus, according to a new survey.

The survey was released by Jewish on Campus, a student-founded antisemitism watchdog group. It was conducted by the polling firm Ipsos and surveyed more than 1,000 college students nationwide who identify as Jewish, as well as approximately 2,000 who reflect the general population of students and are largely not Jewish. The survey was conducted between March and May and has a credibility interval  similar to a margin of error  of 3....
(JNS)  Understand that they want you all dead. You are the only threat to them. When you are gone, all the races will be under the great Jewish heel forever. Fight back white man!!!

This is an excerpt from one of several tweets promoting or inciting violence against Jews that, according to a March 2023 report from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), X declined to remove or sanction.

The report concluded that despite purported changes to its policy enforcement and the stated intent of its management, Twitter continues to host antisemitic threats and tropes. It quoted a January...
(JNS)  Israels detractors accuse the Jewish state of intentionally killing Palestinian civilians. Moreover, they maintain that because in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict many more Palestinians have died than Israelis, Israel uses disproportionate force. Finally, they imply this death toll is the outcome of Israel blocking a solution to the conflict. Of course, each of these accusations is an outright lie.

The truth is, the Israel Defense Force does its utmost to avoid civilian casualties. The IDFs Code of Ethics stresses the importance of protecting civilians no matt...
(JNS)  Time always flies, but somehow during this time of year it seems to fly faster than ever. Can you believe its only 10 days until Rosh Hashanah? We are deep into the Hebrew month of Elul, which is traditionally dedicated to spiritual preparation before the Days of Judgment on Rosh Hashanah. In Sephardic communities, selichot, penitential prayers, are recited for the entire month. Ashkenazi communities will begin selichot services this coming Saturday night, one week before the new year, as a final run-up to the Yamim Noraim, which means not just High Holy Days, but Days of...
(JNS)  There are many measures by which the success of the Abraham Accords can be determined: Volume of trade, number of tourists, the extent of academic collaboration and so on. As the third year since the signing of the Accords winds down, its safe to say that, by all indicators, the relationships have taken off. Trade between Israel and Accords countries has been growing exponentially, mutual investments have taken place and numerous cultural and academic delegations have convened.

Much (if not too much) has been said about the high expectations that followed the announcement of t...
This week brings with it the joyous celebration of Ganesha Chaturthi, a time to honour the beloved elephant-headed deity, Lord Ganesha, who is revered as the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of new beginnings. Alongside this celestial festivity, we witness the Sun's transit into the discerning sign of Virgo, casting its illuminating rays upon the meticulous and analytical energies of this earthy zodiac sign. Talking of muhurta, auspicious timings are available for the purchase and sale of property and vehicle. Let's explore this weeks important Panchanga details for New Delhi, NCT, India. Get weekly Panchang to determine auspicious and inauspicious time for performing day-to-day tasks based on the prevailing planetary position.

Shubh Muhurat This Week

According to Vedic Astrology, the odds of accomplishing a task successfully are significantly enhanced if they are carried out during an auspicious muhurta. An auspicious muhurta provides us with the best outcome possible according to our destiny if we execute the work in harmony with the cosmic timeline. That is why it is essential to take muhurta into account while commencing any auspicious work. This weeks Shubh Muhurat for various activities is as follows:

Vivah Muhurat: No auspicious muhurta is available this week

Griha Pravesh Muhurat: No auspicious muhurta is available this week

Property Purchase Muhurat: Auspicious muhurta is available this week on September 21 (06:27 AM to 03:35 PM)

Vehicle Purchase Muhurat: Auspicious muhurta is available this week on September 17 (11:08 AM to 06:26 AM, Sep 18), September 18 (06:26 AM to 12:39 PM) and September 20 (02:59 PM to 06:27 AM, Sep 21)

Upcoming Planetary Transits This Week

In Vedic astrology, planetary transits are particularly crucial since they are the principal way of anticipating changes and advances in life. Planets move on a daily basis and go through several nakshatras and rashis in the process. It assists in comprehending the nature and characteristics of events as they occur. Here are the upcoming transits this week:

Sun and Moon Vaidhriti on September 16, Saturday, at 4:41 PM

Venus and Jupiter at a 90-degree angle on September 17, Sunday, at 11:35 AM

Sun enters Virgo on September 17, Sunday, at 1:42 PM

Mars and Jupiter at a 150-degree angle on September 20, Wednesday, at 4:14 AM

Upcoming Festivals This Week

Samaveda Upkarma (Saturday, September 16): It is the first day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada. It is a day to start new things, especially in terms of spiritual growth. It is also a day to give thanks for the blessings of the past month and to pray for even greater blessings in the coming month.

It is the first day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada. It is a day to start new things, especially in terms of spiritual growth. It is also a day to give thanks for the blessings of the past month and to pray for even greater blessings in the coming month. Varaha Jayanti (Sunday, September 17): Varaha Jayanti is a Hindu festival that celebrates the incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Varaha, the boar-headed avatar. It is a day to celebrate the victory of good over evil. It is also a day to pray to Lord Vishnu for his blessings and protection.

Varaha Jayanti is a Hindu festival that celebrates the incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Varaha, the boar-headed avatar. It is a day to celebrate the victory of good over evil. It is also a day to pray to Lord Vishnu for his blessings and protection. Hartalika Teej (Monday, September 18): It is a Hindu festival celebrated by married women in India and Nepal. It is a day to pray for the long and happy life of their husbands. The festival is celebrated on the third day of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada.

It is a Hindu festival celebrated by married women in India and Nepal. It is a day to pray for the long and happy life of their husbands. The festival is celebrated on the third day of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada. Ganesh Chaturthi (Tuesday, September 19): It is a 10-day festival that is celebrated in honour of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. The festival begins on the fourth day of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada and ends on the tenth day, which is called Ganesh Visarjan.

Inauspicious Rahu Kalam This Week

According to Vedic astrology, Rahu is an inauspicious planet. During the transition of planets, the time under the influence of Rahu should be avoided to do any auspicious work. Doing Puja, Hawan or Yagya to propitiate auspicious planets during this time is interfered with by Rahu due to its malefic nature. It is important to consider Rahu Kaal before starting any new work. By doing so, the possibility of achieving desired results is increased. Following are the timings of Rahu Kalam for this week:

September 15: 11:02 AM to 12:34 PM

September 16: 09:30 AM to 11:02 AM

09:30 AM to 11:02 AM September 17: 05:08 PM to 06:40 PM

05:08 PM to 06:40 PM September 18: 07:58 AM to 09:30 AM

07:58 AM to 09:30 AM September 19: 03:35 PM to 05:06 PM

03:35 PM to 05:06 PM September 20: 12:32 PM to 02:03 PM

12:32 PM to 02:03 PM September 21: 02:03 PM to 03:34 PM

Panchanga is a calendar used in Vedic astrology to determine the auspicious and inauspicious time for performing day-to-day tasks based on the prevailing planetary position. It comprises five elements - Vaara, Tithi, Nakshatra, Yoga and Karana. The essence of the Panchanga is the inter-relationship between the Sun (our soul) and the Moon (mind) on a daily basis. Panchanga is used for different branches of Vedic astrology such as natal, election, prashna (horary), religious calendars, and to understand the energy of the day. The day of our birth panchanga depicts our emotions, temperament, and nature. It can provide more insight into who we are and how we feel. It can amplify the effect of the planets and endow us with additional characteristics that we may not understand only based on our natal chart. Panchanga is the life force energy that nourishes the birth chart.

----------------------

Neeraj Dhankher

(Vedic Astrologer, Founder - Astro Zindagi)

Email: info@astrozindagi.in, neeraj@astrozindagi.in

Url: www.astrozindagi.in

Contact: Noida: +919910094779

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
The day before my dada (paternal grandfather) died on a cold winter morning, I saw him reading the days newspaper. His small frame was barely visible in the mustard sweater he was wearing, and the brown blanket he had been tucked into. He was leaning against the bedpost, his wooden folding study table  his lifelong companion  firmly balanced on his thin legs. He clipped a news article, and meticulously filed it in a folder lying on his bedside. PREMIUM The writers grandfather, Syed Ayub Raza (Courtesy Lamat R Hasan)

Syed Ayub Raza, my dada, was 88 years old when he passed on December 27, 1997. He had returned from the hospital a few days earlier as his end was near. We knew it, and so did he. There was an eerie nervousness in his room. He sat alone reading and writing, and we kept going in and out to check if he needed something. To check how much time he had. On December 27, when he passed, he was surrounded by newspapers and books. It felt strange to clear up his bed without seeking his permission. He was finicky about anyone touching his papers or books, lest we put them away in a corner where they were not meant to be, or worse, misplaced them. His rare collection of books and maps, his own writings  his diaries and letters  the mountainous piles of newspapers and newspaper clippings stared at us after his demise. We experienced a range of emotions. We were overwhelmed, we were proud, but mostly we were scared to touch his neatly arranged things. His belongings were moved from his own house to his trusted nephews and then to our house a couple of years later. Over the years, the room where his books and papers were stored was often opened and we talked about the strange order in those chaotic piles. And, how could he focus on reading and writing when he was fully aware that the angel of death was waiting to take his soul away? A month-and-a-half ago  25 years after his death  we learnt that my dada had made a grand shajra (family tree) of our family. My brother and I decided to finally take the plunge and browse through his things to find it. As we gaped at the rarest of rare maps, and held books by famous writers we had only heard of, the guilt of not having discovered this treasure earlier plagued us. Some of the maps were fraying at the edges, and the book bindings were beginning to come off.

The real discovery was the shajra  the family tree. However, there wasnt just one. We found over a dozen, and we havent quite given up the search yet. (Courtesy Lamat R Hasan)

We spent days sorting and cataloging dadas collection of books, maps, diaries and letters. In between, we took time to read his diary entries. To our surprise, we discovered that the collection of books and diaries was ancestral. The collection included my great grandfathers books and writings too. In one of my great grandfathers diaries, I found an entry which mentioned dadas roll number, when he appeared for his class 8 exams. I found registers in which my great grandfather and his forefathers, at least up to two more generations, had taken notes as students. A hand-drawn map of Spain, and the history of Spain that followed, melted my heart.

The real discovery was the shajra  the family tree. However, there wasnt just one. We found over a dozen, and we havent quite given up the search yet. Tucked inside envelopes made of newspapers, protected with additional layers of newspapers, the shajras were quite an accidental discovery. Had we not known dada well enough, we would have, perhaps, tossed them away as refuse. Suddenly, it felt like we were on a treasure hunt. The thrill of discovering one more shajra carefully wrapped inside newspaper envelopes, firmly held in a cardboard file, tied with a white string, kept us going. In between, we would stop and try to decode the beautifully-drawn family trees, with their calligraphic writing, which was barely readable. We would send photos of the shajra to our father, to an uncle, to acquaintances, to strangers, seeking their help to read them. We would sit with a magnifying glass to decipher the fine handwriting. And, when everything else failed, we would use translation apps. One of the shajras led me to discover that my home town isnt quite where I was born. A quick trip to my newly-discovered home town in search of relatives mentioned in the family tree threw up plenty of surprises. I learnt about a legendary ancestor, a renowned historian of his time, who set up one of the first madrassas in North India. It was a centre of learning which was open to Hindus and Muslims. A famous student from this madarsa, Ram Chandra Saxena, popularly known as Lalaji Maharaj, was initiated into the Sufi order in 1891 by a Sufi saint, Shah Fazl Ahmad Khan, a teacher at the madrassa. Ramchandraji became his first Hindu disciple. This eventually opened the door for students across religions. Ramchandrajis mission eventually spread to the UK, Europe and the US. Earlier this year, the government of India issued a commemorative stamp and coin in Ramchandrajis honour. His samadhi is in Fatehgarh, not far from his teachers mazaar. I visited my ancestors graves and learnt how, in recent decades, the status of the madrassa had degraded. This residential school for scholars of Arabic, Persian and Urdu, established in 1809, has now been reduced to a primary school. A large area has been encroached, and classrooms converted into garages. The red stones and wooden beams peeking out of the old structure, once spread over 114 acres, and the haunted wing, which had been left untouched, reflected its past grandeur.

My grandfather and his father left behind detailed notes on how to carry on with the silsila (tradition) of continuing the shajras. They wanted future generations to document names, and other relevant details such as dates of birth. (Courtesy Lamat R Hasan)

The other shajras helped me connect with long lost family. My grandfather and his father left behind detailed notes on how to carry on with the silsila (tradition) of continuing the shajras. They wanted future generations to document names, and other relevant details such as dates of birth. The fun moment was to hear relatives, even those who have retired or are on the verge of retiring, tweak their date of birth for the shajra. Not by a year or two, but often by half a dozen years!

Dealing with family members who migrated to Pakistan was an ordeal. They were too scared to connect or share their family tree, which, ironically, was an extension of the tree prepared by my grandfather. After a fairly long and pleasant phone conversation, a close relative in Islamabad developed cold feet. Through the family trees, I could trace the route my forefathers took 1,000 years ago to reach the subcontinent after a long stopover in Lahore. The real shocker was when it dawned on me that my ancestors had come to India via Termez (Uzbekistan) with Sultan Mahmood Ghaznavi. Yes, the notorious plunderer! I can only seek solace in the fact that Ghaznavi himself was not a relative. Unfortunately, of the 60 to 70 families that came around his time, only six or seven survived, and served in various courts as advisers, or as teachers. British historian William Irvine writes in some detail about my ancestors in The Bangash Nawabs of Farrukhabad and on their journey from Lahore to northern India. The portion that excited me was the description of the manuscripts written by the ancestor who bought several houses to establish the madrassa and dedicated his life to teaching and writing. Today, nobody even knows where the library stood, never mind the precious manuscripts. I can also seek solace in the fact that, in the Indian Mutiny of 1857, two of my ancestors were martyred. And my great grandfather took an active part in the Khilafat Movement. He was jailed for a year and it was my grandfathers duty to visit him.

The writers grandmother (Courtesy Lamat R Hasan)

After dadis demise in 1992, dada connected with family wide and far, and even made a trip to Pakistan to trace relatives a few months before his death. He came back with photos of every single relative, captioned it with names, addresses and telephone numbers. He made a separate tree for each branch of the family and handed them over to responsible members of the family.

Dadas shajras are a work of art, apart from being an obvious labour of love. I have tried to replicate them in a bid to take forward the lineage and make it accessible to present and future generations. So far, I have failed. Not on one, but several counts.

The writers grandfather, Syed Ayub Raza, with her brother, Kamal Ayub. (Courtesy Lamat R Hasan)

I not only lack the artistic ability and the vision that he had for making shajras, but also the knack to connect with people. He managed to bond with everyone easily. However, my earnest efforts have backfired.

Since dada did not live in our town, we saw him only during vacations. I have vivid memories of him greeting us with much warmth and then immersing himself right back into his world of newspapers and books. Often, dadi would chide him for not indulging us, for not spending time with us. Dada had his priorities clear. He was focussed on the treasure that he would be leaving behind for us. I am glad he did what he did. And, I am sure, my dadi is too. Lamat R Hasan is an independent journalist. She lives in New Delhi.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

Continue reading with HT Premium Subscription Daily E Paper I Premium Articles I Brunch E Magazine I Daily Infographics Subscribe Now @1199/year Already Subscribed? Sign In

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
As a former resident of and perennial yearner for Delhi, I can extol its charms despite its many deficiencies. Its a sentiment that many would echo. As the Urdu poet Mir Taqi Mir wrote in the 18th century, My heart and my Delhi may both be in ruins/ There are still some delights in this ravaged home. Old view of Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi. Created by De Bar and De Berard, it was published in LIllustration, Journal Universel, Paris, 1857. (Marzolino/Shutterstock)

456pp, 899; Speaking Tiger

Perhaps, thats why not a year goes by without a new book, movie, or play about Delhi or featuring it in a pivotal role. There is plenty of fiction, non-fiction, and works combining the two, such as Khushwant Singhs Delhi: A Novel. While the citys past and present are both fecund grounds for writers, the aftermath of the citys conquest by the British seems particularly compelling. In 1803, the East India Company exerted its dominion after wresting Delhi from the Marathas, while the Mughal empire went into further decline, culminating in the dynastys end after the revolt of 1857.

The works of Narayani Gupta, CM Naim, Gail Minault, Percival Spear, and William Dalrymple, among others, have delved into various facets of this period. Joining their ranks is Swapna Liddles The Broken Script: Delhi Under the East India Company and the Fall of the Mughal Dynasty, 1803-1857.

Her book comprehensively explores key events and their impact on different groups of people, economic and social relations, and ways of thinking and belonging. Anecdotes and interesting minutiae of everyday life enliven her observations and arguments. She writes about how when Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last Mughal emperor, urged his wives to leave the palace upon his death, one of them did so immediately. We read about a newspaper reporting on 14 June 1810 that the British Resident had not eaten his breakfast as he was suffering from a hangover. Another incident pertains to Begum Samru, a dancer who eventually ruled the Sardhana principality and commanded about 4,000 troops. After the British victory in Bharatpur in 1826, she hosted an event where mimics mocked an English prize agent trying to extort money from an impoverished peasant  in front of an audience comprising British officers.

Liddle is an excellent raconteur, as people who have participated in her heritage walks can attest. However, that does not always reflect in the book. Her prose is largely dispassionate and clinical  suitable for a scholarly exposition, but not as much for a non-academic audience. A couple of chapters seem like a litany of events and facts, which make for dry reading. These stand out more because of the stark contrast with Part Five: 1857 and its Aftermath. In this section, as she recounts how mutineers took over Delhi and the subsequent British push back, the narrative tension suddenly tautens and her storytelling engages.

All in all, The Broken Script is an excellent and rigorous introduction for readers interested in history but unfamiliar with this pivotal era of Delhis past. However, for those who have read other works on the period, it can be underwhelming in parts.

In the books introduction, the author mentions her trepidation about working on subjects that scholars have studied in detail, but does not explain how her work differs from others. It would have been good to know the current state of scholarship, how it evolved, the rationale behind her choices of sources, and how different historiographical methods might have contributed to the multiplicity of narratives about that era.

There are a few glimmers of engagement with other works. For instance, she cites evidence against the romanticized notion of the White Mughal  the idea that relationships between European men and Indian women were the product of an age of greater racial intermingling and understanding.

LISTEN: Books & Authors podcast with Swapna Liddle, author, The Broken Script; Delhi Under the East India Company

Liddle quotes from newspapers, letters, and poetry, and the books endnotes are extensive, but as a non-historian, I could not figure out how her book was expanding the scholarship on the topic or what its raison detre was. In the epilogue, she writes against the various characterizations of the age: sometimes as a period of twilight, at others as a renaissance; and as if to somehow reconcile the two, as the last bright flicker of a candle before it goes out. But it is not clear who, if anyone, still subscribes to these assumptions, considering that CM Naim, whom she cites, dispelled these two decades ago. Or is she merely synthesising the extant scholarship for a new crop of readers?

Author Swapna Liddle (Courtesy the publisher)

It would have been good to know, for even if the book does not provide novel insights, it chronicles a history that bears repeating. Liddles nuancing of narratives is significant considering how rewriting history to reflect popular prejudices has become a national obsession. With her methodical analysis and measured tone, she dismantles neat binaries and hasty assumptions. Her description of how the Mughals celebrated Holi, Rakshabandhan, and other festivals associated with Hinduism is worth highlighting at a time when just about every day someone blames long-dead kings and their presumed descendants for all ills blighting the country.

Besides, many of the themes Liddle highlights would be all too familiar to residents of Delhi  and India. Her exploration of the harnessing of religion for political expediency, religious and caste conflict, freedom of the press, and debates on tradition versus innovation two centuries ago provides sweeping perspectives on our contemporary world. Even concerns like fake news, slum demolitions, profligate weddings, and bribing of government officials make an appearance. For its striking illumination of our historical underpinnings, The Broken Script is a book worth reading and repeating.

Syed Saad Ahmed is a writer and communications professional.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Hello readers, Nicole Hardy here, a professional academic writer. Diving into the world of academia, even seasoned writers often find dissertations daunting. Their intricate nature and demand for original research can easily overwhelm them.

If, like many, youre looking to navigate your graduate journey sans the angst of crafting a dissertation, professional dissertation writing services may be your lifeline. These platforms rally a cadre of highly qualified writers, well-versed across diverse fields. Theyre here to unburden you. Simply pass on your brief and watch as they embark on original research, draft, edit, and finesse your dissertation to perfection.

For many doctoral candidates juggling employment with academia, delegating dissertations can be pivotal in balancing work, study, and personal life. More than just convenience, entrusting seasoned professionals assures quality, bolstering your confidence in your work and the doors it could open for you.

But, a word of caution: the digital space is rife with pretenders. So, to spare you the ordeal, Ive curated an exclusive list of the best dissertation writing services. Stay tuned and dive in!

Top Dissertation Services: A Quick Snapshot

DoMyEssay: Ace Your Dissertation with Careful Research Assistance  (4.88 on Sitejabber)

EssayPro: Professionalism Meets Precision in Dissertation Crafting  (4.83 on Sitejabber)

EssayService: Unlock Academic Excellence with Comprehensive Writing  (4.83 on Sitejabber)

EssayHub: Tailored Dissertations with Transparent Writer Profiles  (4.84 on Sitejabber)

PaperWriter: Affordable Expertise with 24/7 Customer Interaction  (4.93 on Sitejabber)

Studyfy: Elevate Academic Success with Focused Dissertation Support  (4.85 on Sitejabber)

WritePaper: Personal Touch to Comprehensive Dissertation Crafting  (4.93 on Sitejabber)

How I Handpicked the Best: My Dissertation Service Selection Criteria

Understanding the essence of an exemplary dissertation or thesis, Ive curated a rigorous set of standards. Every service I reviewed was assessed based on the following pillars:

Writing Excellence:

 Outstanding clarity and coherence;

 Logical flow ensuring smooth readability;

 Meticulous grammar and punctuation;

 Comprehensive and up-to-date research;

 Well-constructed arguments backed by empirical evidence;

 Structured and organized presentation of content;

 Accurate formatting complemented by a consistent referencing style;

 Reliance on credible and authoritative sources.

Service Standards:

 Depth of expertise within the writing team;

 Punctuality in delivering orders;

 Absolute commitment to producing plagiarism-free content;

 A tailored approach to cater to each students unique needs;

 Round-the-clock professional customer support;

 Assurance of free revisions coupled with quality guarantees;

 Competitive and student-friendly pricing;

 Transparent and efficient communication channels;

 Stringent privacy and confidentiality policies

Recognizing the immense pressure that students face while writing their dissertations, Ive taken every step to ensure that the thesis writing services reviewed deliver top-tier results. To give my reviews depth, I didnt just rely on promises. I ordered sample writings from each service, providing them with identical tasks to maintain an unbiased review environment.

After meticulous evaluations, seven services rose to the top in the realm of the best dissertation writing services. Each of them stands out for its exceptional dedication to academic excellence. For a clearer understanding of the unique attributes that each service offers, lets delve deeper into individual reviews.

DoMyEssay

Wading through academic waters, especially the deep end of dissertation writing, can be daunting. This is where DoMyEssay comes to the rescue as a guiding light, ensuring students dont drown in stress. After analyzing a myriad of writing platforms, its evident that DoMyEssay distinctly carves its niche as the best dissertation writing service.

One of the paramount concerns for students is the assurance of thorough research and unparalleled originality in their work. Examining a sample from a DoMyEssay writer, I was taken aback by the depth of research and the compelling quality of the arguments presented.

Cost:

Dissertation writing starts at $12/page.

Pros of Using DoMyEssay:

 Stellar dedication to deep research, guaranteeing each point is supported by solid evidence.

 Value-added features at no extra cost, such as an originality report, precise formatting, a well-crafted title page, and a bibliography.

 The liberty to cherry-pick a writer ensures you match with someone who aligns with your academic vision.

 An individualistic approach, ensuring each academic endeavor receives its deserved bespoke treatment.

Cons of Using DoMyEssay:

 The intricacy of dissertation writing might extend the expected delivery timeline.

Customer Feedback:

DoMyEssay was my secret weapon for my dissertation. They understood my topic inside and out, and the result was mind-blowing. So grateful! Oscar, PhD Candidate, Political Science

Conclusion

Navigating the overflowing landscape of academic services can be tricky. Yet, DoMyEssay shines through with its steadfast dedication to quality, thorough research, and student-centric approach. Be it their uncompromising authenticity, complimentary benefits, or autonomy in writer selection, DoMyEssay consistently crafts an unmatched academic experience.

EssayPro

Within the academic writing sphere, its undeniable that clarity, precision, and genuine content are paramount. As an experienced writer who has critically analyzed various services, EssayPro definitely shines. With a solid decade behind them, theyve firmly established themselves as the best dissertation writing company and an epitome of academic dedication.

Dissertations, often the magnum opus of ones academic journey, require finesse and expert handling. For those on the cusp of completing their PhD programs, EssayPro promises an array of writing levels, with the doctorate level being a notable offering.

Cost:

Dissertation writing starts at $12.4/page.

Pros of Using EssayPro:

 Access to a wide-ranging, seasoned team of writers.

 A seamless and expedient ordering process.

 Tempting offers, such as numerous promo codes and bulk discounts.

 Rapid turnaround times, making it an ideal choice for urgent submissions.

Cons of Using EssayPro:

 During the wee hours, you might experience a slight delay in responses from writers.

Customer Feedback:

Dissertation writing felt like a mountain, but EssayPro made it feel like a walk in the park. Seriously impressed by their expertise!  Ella, PhD Candidate, History

Conclusion

The academic writing arena is expansive, yet not every service stands up to the mark. EssayPro, with its deep-seated commitment and track record, positions itself as a trusted ally for students everywhere. Be it their cadre of specialists, the intuitive ordering mechanism, or their punctuality, EssayPro ensures students get what they crave.

EssayService

When it comes to delivering a well-researched and meticulously polished dissertation, the stakes are undeniably high. The right thesis writing company can be a game-changer for your academic trajectory. Enter EssayService, a digital hub crafted to bridge students with the elite of academic writers, guaranteeing that all papers not only match but surpass standards.

The hallmark of EssayService lies in its professional touch. This isnt just about writing. Its about crafting an impeccable piece of research that not only shines in content but also in presentation, promising both academic and professional growth.

Cost:

Dissertation writing starts at $12.35/page.

Pros of Using EssayService:

 A robust privacy policy that ensures absolute confidentiality.

 Flawless, consistent writing standards.

 A strict zero-plagiarism policy.

 Attractive savings for regulars.

Cons of Using EssayService:

 Difficulty in selecting the ideal writer due to an abundance of bids.

Customer Feedback:

Never thought Id get through my dissertation, but with EssayServices help, I not only finished but nailed it! Cant thank them enough.  Marcus, PhD Candidate, Environmental Science

Conclusion

Navigating the academic world requires skill, dedication, and the right partners. With its unwavering commitment to quality and student-friendly approach, EssayService stands as an ally for those wishing to make an indelible mark in their academic pursuits. Whether its the intricacies of research, the art of writing, or the nuances of citation, with EssayService, youre in safe hands.

EssayHub

Every student, at one point or another, has faced the daunting task of dissertation writing, which often comes with its fair share of apprehensions and challenges. As someone who reviews writing services professionally, I can vouch for EssayHub as a dependable haven for those navigating the complex world of dissertations.

One of the key factors students yearn for is transparency. Trusting someone with academic work is a significant step, and during my evaluations, EssayHub stood out for its commitment to open communication. They not only offer the cheapest dissertation writing services but also allow students to make an informed choice about who will be their writing partner.

Cost:

Dissertation writing starts at $12/page.

Pros of Using EssayHub:

 Unlimited revisions at no extra cost.

 The autonomy to handpick a writer, empowered by transparent performance metrics and reviews.

 A wide academic spectrum of disciplines covered.

 A fortified commitment to safety and the complete privacy of users.

Cons of Using EssayHub:

 Response times from writers can sometimes be extended during late hours.

Customer Feedback:

If it wasnt for EssayHub, Id still be struggling with my dissertation. They got me through the toughest parts. Major lifesavers!  Priya, PhD Candidate, Anthropology

Conclusion

The journey of academic writing is strewn with choices, challenges, and the quest for excellence. With its steadfast commitment to student needs and transparency, EssayHub emerges as an ally in this journey. Whether its the freedom to select a writer, the expanse of disciplines covered, or the assurance of quality revisions, EssayHub ensures a seamless and satisfying experience for every student.

PaperWriter

As academic demands grow, affordable dissertation writing services become invaluable. Among this expansive landscape, PaperWriter shines brightly. Catering to a myriad of academic requirements, they offer more than just a dissertation service. Theyre an all-encompassing partner for your academic journey. Having critically evaluated numerous writing services, I can attest to the distinctive qualities that set PaperWriter apart.

Engaging with PaperWriter is uncomplicated. From ordering to communicating directly with your chosen expert, every step is designed with the students convenience in mind. Their commitment to swift yet effective communication ensures every query or clarification is addressed promptly.

Cost:

Dissertation writing starts at $12/page.

Pros of Using PaperWriter:

 A user-friendly ordering process, bolstered by direct, open channels of communication with your selected writer.

 Round-the-clock customer support.

 Commitment to producing original content with impeccable citation and organization of sources.

 A cost-effective solution, offering competitive prices and myriad saving opportunities.

Cons of Using PaperWriter:

 Engaging a professional writer might limit your own research opportunities and personal exploration into the topic.

Customer Feedback:

PaperWriter made dissertation writing seem easy. Their team is incredibly knowledgeable, and I couldnt have done it without them.  Quinn, PhD Candidate, Engineering

Conclusion

The academic journey is filled with challenges, deadlines, and the incessant pursuit of excellence. In PaperWriter, students find an ally that not only supports their immediate needs but also ensures the integrity and quality of their work. With its attractive pricing, robust support, and emphasis on originality, PaperWriter is a solid choice for those who seek excellence without breaking the bank.

Studyfy

Navigating the vast realm of professional dissertation writing services, Studyfy has carved a niche for itself as a dedicated ally for students. Offering a diverse suite of academic solutions, it particularly excels in the domain of dissertation writing. As someone who constantly reviews writing services, I can affirm that Studyfy offers an effective blend of quality and ease.

Delving into Studyfys offerings, one is immediately struck by its user-friendly interface. A few clicks, and youre either in direct conversation with their efficient support team or starting your order placement. The 24/7 availability ensures that time zones never impede your academic progress.

Cost:

Dissertation writing starts at $12.35/page.

Pros of Using Studyfy:

 A vigilant customer support brigade, on standby 24/7.

 Precision encapsulated, echoing the essence of academic diligence.

 A flexible revision strategy, making certain every specification is addressed.

 An optimal equilibrium between price and quality, delivering outstanding value.

Cons of Using Studyfy:

 The final draft might slightly diverge from your personal writing style unless you provide the writer with a benchmark sample.

Customer Feedback:

I was on the edge of giving up on my dissertation. Then, I found Studyfy. Their guidance and writing expertise was a total game-changer. Graduation, here I come!  Nina, PhD Candidate, Linguistics

Conclusion

Navigating through academic hurdles, expectations, and dreams, every student needs a dependable ally. Studyfy steps in here, positioning itself as a steadfast academic partner, ensuring top-notch work thats also pocket-friendly. Their stress on clarity, excellence, and personalization earmarks them as a top choice for any earnest learner.

WritePaper

Facing the academic tide, particularly the dissertation waves, demands resilience. Thankfully, WritePaper emerges as a solid anchor, providing relief and assistance. Their services, especially concerning dissertations, emerge as a hallmark of excellence. Delving into their offerings, WritePaper undoubtedly marries a personal touch with affordability.

Whats particularly commendable about WritePaper is its unparalleled emphasis on customized thesis writing services. Theyre acutely aware that each academic task is distinct. Their writers, thus, delve deep into specific guidelines, ensuring a tailored and resonant outcome.

Cost:

Dissertation writing starts at $12.35/page.

Pros of Using WritePaper:

 An extensive range of subjects and citation techniques to cater to a wide academic spectrum.

 Bespoke crafting, ensuring the content resonates with specific guidelines.

 A tenacious commitment to current research trends guarantees topicality and authenticity.

 An intuitive order placement mechanism designed for user ease and swift interaction.

Cons of Using WritePaper:

 Communication avenues with their support team are somewhat limited, primarily to chats and emails.

Customer Feedback:

WritePaper was my guiding light during the murky waters of dissertation writing. They know their stuff and helped me present mine perfectly!  Riley, PhD Candidate, Philosophy

Conclusion

The academic voyage is often riddled with challenges, intricacies, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. WritePaper, with its dedicated approach, steps up as more than just a service  its a commitment. Championing customization, contemporary research insights, and value-for-money, WritePaper rightly earned its reputation among the academic community.

FAQ

What makes a service the best dissertation writing service?

Throughout my vast journey as an academic writer, Ive come across a wide variety of writing services. The label best is subjective and can differ based on individual requirements and tastes. However, from a professional perspective, the premier thesis writing company isnt simply characterized by top-notch writing. Although undoubtedly, the quality of the writing is a primary factor in the assessment criteria.

A first-class thesis service should consist of a solid team of authors with advanced qualifications, ensuring their ability to traverse complicated academic landscapes with ease. Their proficiency ensures thorough research and the development of insightful material.

Timeliness, a strict policy against plagiarism, and ongoing open communication channels with clients further enhance a services standing. Yet, the ultimate touch is a committed and professional customer support team, tirelessly working to guarantee smooth service provision and address any issues. When a service successfully amalgamates these elements, it rightfully earns the title of the best writing service.

How much does a dissertation writing service typically charge?

While navigating the intricate maze of academic writing, Ive encountered a diverse array of pricing models for thesis writing companies. Determining the exact cost can be somewhat unclear, as prices can fluctuate based on multiple factors, including the companys reputation, the writers expertise, and market demand.

Primarily, the intricacy and depth of the research required play a crucial role in determining the cost. A thesis centered on a specialized, complex topic often incurs a higher charge due to the specialized knowledge needed. Additionally, the projects urgency is another crucial factor. Eleventh-hour requests can sometimes be considerably costlier than those with an extended deadline.

However, its also crucial to recognize that prices can vary significantly among different service providers. While some services may offer enticingly low prices, it is vital to confirm that this does not result in a compromise on quality. In my experience, a balance between affordability and top-notch content is the key to choosing the right dissertation service.

How can I select the most reliable dissertation service?

Venturing into the academic support domain, I frequently come across inquiries regarding the optimal methods to pinpoint the most reliable writing service. Based on my comprehensive experience, several elements are crucial.

Credibility is of utmost importance. A dependable PhD dissertation writing service typically garners a wealth of positive feedback and commendations from previous clients. These reviews can shed light on the quality of the service and the expertise of the writers. Also, it is imperative to carefully examine the transparency of their operations and communication channels. A reputable service will be candid about their services, pricing structure, and the qualifications of their writers.

Additionally, evaluating the responsiveness of customer support and the availability of direct communication with the writers can have a significant impact. It is vital to remember that a PhD thesis is not just another academic task. It is a defining piece of writing that can influence your academic path. Hence, dedicating additional time to make a well-considered decision is key to your academic achievements.

How can I ensure a writer delivers a top-quality dissertation?

Navigating the complex world of academic assistance, a recurring question that emerges is how to confirm that the chosen writer will craft a quality thesis. From my vantage point, there are several approaches that can heighten the probability of a successful collaboration.

Primarily, its crucial to partner with a first-rate thesis writing company. These elite platforms typically enforce rigorous screening processes for their writers, ensuring that only the most adept and seasoned individuals are delegated to such critical tasks. A thorough evaluation of the credentials, qualifications, and testimonials of writers suggested by the service can provide additional confidence.

Furthermore, having a direct interaction with the dissertation company can yield insightful information. Before making a commitment, its advantageous to convey your expectations, goals, and reservations. If the company is open and responsive, its a positive indicator. Additionally, consider requesting examples or an initial brief draft to assess the writers ability and approach. Remember, your dissertation symbolizes the culmination of years of study, so caution in selecting the top dissertation writing service is not only advised but crucial.

Which dissertation service offers the most budget-friendly rates?

In the bustling domain of dissertation services, premier platforms, especially the best dissertation writing services discussed in this review, tend to have closely aligned pricing. This uniformity stems from a mutual appreciation of the worth of expert scholastic guidance.

Yet, when pinching pennies becomes crucial, there are subtle differences to note. Among the plethora of providers, DoMyEssay, EssayHub, and PaperWriter stand out as being slightly more economical. The price difference might be minuscule, often just a matter of a few cents per page, but for students who are managing their finances meticulously, this can accumulate to a noticeable amount over an entire dissertation.

It is worth noting, however, that while many platforms out there might be a tad more budget-friendly, its crucial to assess other factors like writer expertise, service reliability, and customer reviews. Ultimately, striking a balance between cost, quality, and peace of mind should be the foremost goal when choosing a service for such a crucial academic undertaking.

How quickly can top dissertation services deliver?

Indeed, the demand for quick writing services, particularly for dissertations, is considerable. As a seasoned academic writer, I can vouch for the capacity of top dissertation writing services to meet urgent demands. Many of these services provide swift turnaround times to accommodate eleventh-hour requirements, although this may influence the cost.

Its also vital to understand the essence of a dissertation. These are intricate, research-heavy documents that typically require weeks or even months of detailed crafting. Although premier services can expedite the process, the urgency might impact the thoroughness of the research or the final quality. If you find yourself pressed for time, its wise to provide the writer with a sensible timeframe  perhaps a couple of weeks, depending on the scope and complexity.

Moreover, communication is of the utmost importance. Always ensure to maintain communication with the assigned writer or the support team. Providing clear guidelines, responding promptly, and maintaining an open communication channel can greatly expedite the process while ensuring quality.

Are dissertation writing services in USA legitimate?

The issue of legitimacy concerning writing services in the USA is indeed relevant. Being deeply immersed in the academic writing sector, I can offer some valuable insights. Indeed, numerous custom dissertation writing services operating in the USA are entirely legitimate, often adhering to stringent ethical codes that ensure transparency, confidentiality, and originality.

Nonetheless, as with any sector, there are always exceptions. Although many services aim for excellence, some may not consistently maintain the same elevated standards, potentially resulting in troubling issues like plagiarism or the resale of pre-composed content. In this situation, it becomes even more crucial to exercise caution. Undertaking thorough research, reading through user testimonials, seeking referrals, and possibly asking for a sample or initiating initial consultations are all wise actions to ensure you are aligning with a trustworthy service before making a full commitment.

Make a point to interact with their customer support, pose questions, and assess their level of professionalism. Genuine services will display openness, attentiveness, and transparency in all their interactions.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on a dissertation journey shouldnt be daunting. Curious about a strategy adopted by many successful scholars? They often seek expert assistance. The best online dissertation writing services, like the ones Ive discussed, are at your beck and call, eager to guide you through the intricate paths of thesis composition, ensuring you dont venture alone. By seeking help, youre not just saving time but also ensuring the refined quality of your dissertation.

This overview is designed to introduce you to some of the best platforms providing top-notch thesis writing services. These handpicked services guarantee punctuality, offer clear pricing structures, and uphold stringent quality standards. With the right assistance, elevating your academic performance becomes less of a dream and more of a reality. But dont merely rely on my insights. Take a leap!

Dive into these services and witness the academic relief they bring. Not only will you secure impressive grades, but youll also free up invaluable time. Time that can be spent savoring the enriching experiences that academic life has to offer.

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], September 13: GS Caltex, a leading name in the automotive lubricants industry, is proud to announce the launch of its flagship service centers, Kixx Smart Bike Stations, at Kondapur in Hyderabad. With decades of experience, GS Caltex has consistently delivered top-notch lubricants for various automotive and industrial applications. This strategic initiative marks a significant milestone for GS Caltex as it reaffirms its commitment to providing unparalleled service excellence to motorcycle enthusiasts in the region.

The grand inauguration of the Kixx Smart Bike Station took place, today and was attended by esteemed members of the GS Caltex India Pvt Ltd, including Rajesh Nagar (MD & CEO), K Madhu Mohan (GM - Marketing), and Deep Malhotra (GM - Retail). This momentous occasion symbolizes GS Caltex's dedication to elevating the standards of motorcycle maintenance and servicing while fostering growth within the mechanic community.

The Kixx Smart Bike Stations by GS Caltex are set to revolutionize the motorcycle service industry in Hyderabad. This Smart Bike Station model will be replicated across India in many cities. In the first phase of this ambitious project, GS Caltex plans to open 25 exclusive service stations, followed by an additional 50 stores in phase 2. This expansion is a testament to GS Caltex's vision of providing top-notch service to motorcycle owners across the city.

Rajesh Nagar, MD & CEO of GS Caltex India Pvt Ltd, commented, We are excited to introduce the Kixx Smart Bike Stations in Hyderabad, which represent a significant leap forward in the motorcycle service industry. Our goal is to offer customers an unparalleled service experience by ensuring standardized working procedures, highly trained and skilled staff, and the use of the highest quality lubricants.

K Madhu Mohan, GM - Marketing, added, The Kixx Smart Bike Stations will serve as hubs of innovation, offering motorcycle owners a one-stop solution for all their servicing needs. We are confident that this initiative will not only benefit our customers but also empower the local mechanic community by providing them with access to advanced training and tools.

Deep Malhotra, GM - Retail, emphasized the importance of these service stations in enhancing the overall customer experience, saying, At GS Caltex, we believe that our customers deserve nothing but the best. With the launch of the Kixx Smart Bike Stations, we aim to set a new industry benchmark for service quality and customer satisfaction.

The Kixx Smart Bike Stations will cater to a wide range of motorcycle brands and models, offering services such as oil changes, tune-ups, diagnostics, and more. Customers can expect a seamless and hassle-free experience, backed by GS Caltex's decades of expertise in automotive lubricants.

GS Caltex invites all motorcycle enthusiasts in Hyderabad to experience the future of motorcycle servicing at the Kixx Smart Bike Stations. With a commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction, GS Caltex is ready to raise the bar for motorcycle service standards in the region.

GS Caltex India, a 100% subsidiary of GS Caltex Corporation, South Korea, was established on 2nd February 2010 in India, with its registered office in Mumbai. The company specializes in providing high-quality premium lubricants manufactured from its own group II plus base oils, imported from the renowned Yeosu Refinery in South Korea. GS Caltex India's operations span across the entire country, with strategically located warehouses catering to the needs of its valued customers. The brand proudly supplies its premium lubricants to esteemed businesses, including major OEMs like Kia Motors, Volvo Construction, Hyundai Motors, Hyundai Construction, Kohler, Ajax, Doosan, Indus Towers, Putzmeister, Puzzolana, and many others.

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
British oil and gas major BP Plc has announced the surprise exit of Bernard Looney, its chief executive officer (CEO) since Feb 2020, with the Irishman stepping down from his role and leaving the company after he failed to fully detail relationships with colleagues. FILE - CEO of oil and gas company BP Bernard Looney talks during the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition & Conference in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Monday, Oct. 31, 2022. (AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili, File)

He did not provide details of all relationships and accepts he was obliged to make more complete disclosure. The company has strong values and the board expects everyone at the company to behave in accordance with those values. All leaders in particular are expected to act as role models and to exercise good judgment in a way that the earns the trust of others, BP informed its investors in a statement on Tuesday, according to The Guardian.

Why the resignation?

Last year, Looney underwent a review during which the 53-year-old revealed a small number of historical relationships prior to becoming CEO'; the review was triggered due to information received from an anonymous source.

At the time, the London-headquartered firm did not find any breach of its code of conduct; however, it was given assurance by the now-former CEO regarding both his past relationships and future behaviour.

Recently, some fresh allegations were made, necessitating an inquiry that is still ongoing.

Mr Looney has today informed the company that he was not fully transparent in his previous disclosures, BP's statement read.

What next? Who is the new CEO?

Murray Auchincloss, the oil and gas giant's chief financial officer (CFO), will fill the vacant chair on an interim basis. Bloomberg has Auchincloss on its list of BP Plc's next full-time CEO, the others being Heige Lund, William Lin, Anja-Isabel Dotzenrath and Gordon Birrell.

Bernard Looney's tenure in BP Plc

He joined in 1991 at the age of 21, and went on to hold roles in its operations in North Sea, Vietnam and Mexico; in 2016, he was elevated as the head of its upstream division.

After taking over as the chief executive officer, Looney unveiled his plan to make BP a net-zero company by 2050 or sooner.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
In an important step, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has directed banks to release all movable/immovable property documents within 30 days of receiving full repayment of loan and closure of a loan account. The Reserve Bank of India (File Photo)

If banks fail to return the papers within this period, and are responsible for the delay, they must compensate the borrower by paying 5000 for each day of delay, the central bank said in a notification on Wednesday.

Why the action?

The RBI said it had come to its notice that some REs (regulated entities) were following divergent practices in releasing property documents. This, in turn, leads to customer grievances and disputes, it added.

Compensation for delay

The RBI noted that the borrower must be given the option to collect the original papers either from the branch where the loan account was serviced, or any other office of the RE where the papers were kept. It also held that the REs shall assist the borrower in obtaining duplicate copies of the originals, in case of loss or damage (partial/full), and also bear the assisted costs (in addition to the 5000 per day fine in case of delay).

In such cases, however, the REs will get 60 days to complete this procedure, the notification stated. The delayed period fine will come into effect after these 60 days.

Applicability

These guidelines are for all such documents that are due to be released on or after December 1. These must be followed by:

(1.) Commercial Banks (including Small Finance Banks and Regional Rural Banks; excluding Payments Banks)

(2.) Local Area Banks

(3.) Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks.

(4.) State Co-operative Banks, District Central Co-operative Banks

(5.) Non-Banking Financial Companies (excluding Housing Finance Companies)

(6.) Asset Reconstruction Companies.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT News Desk Follow the latest breaking news and developments from India and around the world with Hindustan Times' newsdesk. From politics and policies to the economy and the environment, from local issues to national events and global affairs, we've got you covered. ...view detail
Bengaluru News: Leaders from the ruling Congress continued to maintain that there is no water to release to neighbouring state Tamil Nadu, as the ongoing Cauvery river water sharing dispute worsened. The southern state has planned to file a petition before the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) to express its inability to release water. After the launch of Green Line, the first phase of Namma Metro, which consists of the Green and the Purple lines, will finally be completed.(Ajay Aggarwal/HT Photo)

Meanwhile, Bengaluru city prepared itself for the much anticipated Ganesh Chaturthi festival, which is just around the corner. The state capital's civic body came down hard on those installing banners and posters in view of the festivities. A political spat also ensued in the state when BJP MLA Aravind Bellad alleged that the Siddaramaiah-led government is "deliberately delaying" permission for celebrations of the Ganesha festival at the controversial Idgah Maidan in Hubballi.

READ | Karnataka HC suggests revising school, industry timings to prevent traffic jams

Bengaluru metros purple line, which was set to be fully operational by Friday, is likely to be delayed as the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) Southern Circle was unable to give dates for the safety inspection of the stretch, according to multiple reports.

In the realm of health-related news, the Dakshina Kannada district has sounded an alert following the confirmation of Nipah virus cases in Kerala.
Karnataka Social Welfare Minister H C Mahadevappa on Wednesday said that nearly 2.28 crore people from all walks of life within the country and abroad, have registered to read the Constitutions preamble on September 15 as part of the 'International Day of Democracy' celebrations. Karnataka Social Welfare Minister H C Mahadevappa.(Wikipedia)

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will lead the mega event, along with Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and other guests, as he along with 10,000 children will read the preamble at 10 am on that day from the grand steps of Vidhana Soudha here.

"From within the country and abroad, about 2,27,81,894 people have made online registration. We had expected 5 or 10 lakh people to register, but this has become a movement," Mahadevappa said.

READ | Hampi Utsav to be held in February next year, says Karnataka Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan

Speaking to reporters here, he said corporate bodies, private sector, government sector, banking sector, people from industries and NRIs from several countries have come forward to participate, and have registered.

"The intention is to make people, especially the youth understand the idea of the democracy and the constitution, and thereby they know the main purpose of the preamble, to lead a life with dignity, freedom and equality," he added.

The Social Welfare department had said that anyone who wants to read the constitution on the same day (September 15) and at the same time of the main event, and get a participation certificate issued by the Government of Karnataka, needs to register.

READ | Cabinet sub-committee identifies 195 taluks as drought-hit in Karnataka

On September 15, they can upload a video or picture of them reading the preamble, upon which they will be approved to download participation certificates from the same website, it said, adding that Corporates, MSMEs, NGOs, RWAs, and even individual families are encouraged to register and read.

The Minister spoke about the importance of making it mandatory to read the preamble at all formal functions of the state government, besides all schools, colleges and educational institutions.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Thursday nabbed a key absconding Islamic State (IS) terror conspirator on arrival at New Delhi Airport from Nairobi, Kenya. NIA arrests Karnataka IS terror accused at Delhi airport on arrival from Nairobi.

Also Read - Cauvery water row: Pro-Kannada activist Nagaraj accuses K'taka CM of inaction,

Arafath Ali was taken into custody the moment he landed at the airport, marking a major breakthrough for the NIA in its efforts to uncover and foil the conspiracy of foreign-based modules of IS or ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) to carry out acts of terror and violence in India.

Ali had been absconding since 2020, when he was accused of indulging in ISIS propaganda activities and planning for terrorist acts. He had since then been operating from abroad to promote the anti-India terror agenda of the IS.

NIA investigations have revealed that Ali, a resident of Shivamogga district of Karnataka, was actively involved in the identification, radicalisation and recruitment of gullible Muslim youth into the ISIS fold while working from abroad. "As part of the Shivamogga terror conspiracy case, one accused, named Mohamed Shariq, had been on his way to plant a pressure cooker IED at Kadri Manjunatha Temple, Mangaluru, when the IED exploded accidentally in the auto rickshaw," said the NIA.

"Ali had been in active touch with the other accused persons in the case, and was actively involved in the planning and execution of the conspiracy." According to the NIA investigations, Ali was also responsible for the two Mangaluru graffiti cases of 2020, when, on his directions, two other accused, identified as Mohamed Shariq and Maaz Muneer Ahmed, had written DONT FORCE US TO INVITE LASHKAR-E-TAIBA AND TALIBAN TO DEAL WITH SANGHIS AND MANVEDIS #LASHKAR ZINDABAD on the walls. "Investigations against Ali and other suspects in the case are continuing," added the agency.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Veteran BJP leader B S Yediyurappa on Wednesday said he would request the central leadership to appoint at the earliest the Leader of Opposition in Karnataka Assembly and the party's new state president. Former chief minister and senior BJP leader BS Yediyurappa. (PTI File Photo)

ALSO READ | Nearly 2.28 crore people to read Preamble of Constitution on Sept 15: Karnataka Minister

Although the new Assembly was elected almost four months ago, the party is yet to name the Leaders of Opposition in the House and the Legislative Council.

ALSO READ | Hampi Utsav to be held in February next year, says Karnataka Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan

"I will request for appointment of opposition leader and the party's new state president as early as possible," Yediyurappa, who is in the national capital to attend the party's central election committee meeting, told reporters here.

ALSO READ | Cauvery water row: Karnataka CM chairs all-party meet to discuss way forward

Former Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai had taken up this matter with Union Home Minister Amit Shah last month, who then assured that the appointment would be done soon.

Currently, Nalin Kumar Kateel is on an extension as BJP president. The BJP was defeated by the Congress in the Karnataka Assembly polls in May.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in Mohali on Thursday sentenced three former Punjab Police cops to life imprisonment in a 1992 fake encounter case in which three youths were killed. On September 8, the court convicted then DSP Gurdev Singh then inspectors Dharam Singh and Surinder Singh of conspiracy, murder and fabrication in the case.

The special CBI court of RK Gupta also imposed a fine of 2 lakh each on the cops.

The victims were identified as Harjit Singh, Lakhwinder Singh and Jaspinder Singh. On September 8, the court convicted then DSP Gurdev Singh then inspectors Dharam Singh and Surinder Singh of conspiracy, murder and fabrication in the case. The accused were also convicted under Section 218 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for submitting incorrect records.

Harjit was picked from Thathian bus stand on April 29, 1992, and was killed on May 12, 1992, along with Lakhwinder and Jaspinder in a fake encounter by a police party headed by SI Dharam Singh, the then SHO of Lopoke police station.

Of the nine accused, including a police informer named in the case, five died during the trial, while assistant sub-inspector Bhupinder Singh was declared a proclaimed offender.

There were a total of 55 witnesses in the case but statements of 27 could be recorded as some of them died during the trial. Marred by delays, the first witness statement was recorded in 2016.

Harjits father filed a writ before the Punjab and Haryana high court, alleging that his son had been forcibly taken into custody on April 29, 1992, near Thathian bus stand in Sathiala, Amritsar. He further claimed that Harjit Singh was held at Mall Mandi interrogation centre in Amritsar.

In response to the allegations, the high court deputed a warrant officer to secure Harjits release. On May 30, 1997, the high court transferred the investigation of the case to the CBI.

The CBI began its probe in 1998 and found that Harjit was abducted by police informer Daljit Singh, alias Motu, head constable Satbir Singh and other cops on April 29, 1992. He was killed in a police encounter on May 12, 1992. The police party responsible for this act was headed by sub-inspector Dharam Singh, who was then the station house officer (SHO) at the Lopoke police station.

The bodies of the victims were not handed over to their families but were cremated by the police as unclaimed, stated the victims families in their plea.

The CBI presented charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including Sections 364 (kidnapping or abducting in order to murder), 120-B (criminal conspiracy), 302 (murder), and 218 (public servant framing incorrect record or writing with intent to save person from punishment or property from forfeiture).

Box

How the case unfolded

April 29, 1992: A youth, Harjit Singh, picked by police from Thathian bus stand in Sathiala, Amritsar

May 12, 1992: Harjit and two others --- Lakhwinder Singh, and Jaspinder Singh --- all in their 20s, killed in an encounter

May 30, 1997: High court transfers case to the CBI

1998: CBI begins probe

2016: Statement of first witness recorded

September 8, 2023: Special CBI court hold three cops guilty

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
The Haryana government on Thursday informed the Punjab and Haryana high court that Congress MLA from Ferozepur Zirka Mamman Khan has been named in one of the FIRs registered to probe Nuh violence of July 31. The Haryana government on Thursday informed the Punjab and Haryana high court that Congress MLA from Ferozepur Zirka Mamman Khan has been named in one of the FIRs registered to probe Nuh violence of July 31. (Source: Twitter)

Read here: Nuh violence: Congress MLA named suspect in FIR, HC tells him to move lower court

Haryanas additional advocate general Deepak Sabherwal told the high court bench of justice Vikas Bahl that in all, there are 52 accused persons in an FIR (149) registered on August 1 at the Nagina police station on Nuh Violence out of which 42 persons have been arrested.

One Taufiq, who is also an accused in the FIR, has been arrested . (he) has named the present petitioner (the MLA) as one of the accused, Sabherwal informed the court, adding that during investigation it was found that calls were exchanged between Taufiq and the MLA between July 29 and July 30, a day prior to violence. As per the tower location, the MLA was within an area of 1.5 km from the place of occurrence of violence on July 29 and July 30 contrary to the claims being made by the MLA that he was not close to the place of the occurrence.

Sabherwal was responding to a plea filed by Khan demanding the constitution of a high-level special investigation team (SIT) comprising of officers not below the rank of the inspector general of police and for transferring of cases on Nuh violence to the said SIT. It was also demanded that the investigation details should not be shared with political executive.

The communal violence erupted in the district on July 31 during a Hindu religious procession, injuring several and killing at least five. The violence eventually spiralled and spread to neighbouring districts, including Gurugram, where mobs set afire a mosque and pillaged several shops and restaurants.

Sabherwal had further informed the court that statements of security officers of the MLA, constable Jai Prakash and constable Pradeep, have also been recorded by the police and according to them the MLA was within a range of 1.5 km from the place of occurrence of violence on July 29 and July 30.

It was further submitted that the MLA had posted on WhatsApp as well as on Facebook on July 30 that nobody needs to worry as the petitioner (MLA) had fought for them in the Vidhan Sabha and will fight for them in Mewat also. Also, one Abdulla Khan, who is an accused and yet to arrested, in one of his posts, had mentioned engineer Mamman Khan MLA Mission complete.

He further submitted that the MLA was summoned on August 25 for August 31 before the probe team, but he sent a reply stating that he was not feeling well and sought 10 days time for joining the probe. He has not joined the probe since then. Hence, after considering the entire material the probe team have found, he has been nominated as an accused on September 4, he submitted.

Giving details of probe, Sabherwal contended that in the FIR in question, an SIT comprising of DSP Satish Kumar, SHO Nagina, and SI Varinder has been constituted, which is working under direct supervision of the superintendent of police, Nuh. It has been decided that the inspector general of police, south range, Rewari, would monitor the investigation and would seek a weekly update, the court was informed by Sabherwal, adding that the investigation has been done fairly and at a good pace and there is now peace in Nuh.

Read here: Haryana CM Khattar meets family members of Nuh violence victim

Taking note of submissions from Sabherwal, the court has issued notice on his plea for October 19 but said that the issue of maintainability is left open. However, it granted liberty to the MLA to apply for bail.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
The Election Commission (EC) on Thursday lauded the efforts of Anurag Agarwal, chief electoral officer (CEO) of Haryana, in the development of an innovative mobile application designed for queue management, the Haryana government said in a statement. The Election Commission (EC) on Thursday lauded the efforts of Anurag Agarwal, chief electoral officer (CEO) of Haryana, in the development of an innovative mobile application designed for queue management, the Haryana government said in a statement. (HT Photo/ Representational image)

This application, a first in the nation, has been created to enhance the convenience of voters by allowing them to determine their place in the queue, eliminating the need to stand in long lines.

The deputy election commissioner, Hirdesh Kumar held a meeting with CEOs from Haryana, Punjab, and Chandigarh. In the meeting, a detailed discussion was also held on revision of voter lists in preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

The deputy election officer highlighted a significant change initiated by the EC, enabling youth to register as voters at the age of 17. Previously, eligibility was restricted to those turning 18 on or before January 1 of a given year. Under the revised rules, youth can now register as voters on specific dates i.e., January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1 coinciding with their 18th birthday. He said that those turning 18 by January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1, 2023, should make it a priority to register themselves as voters in 2023.

Agarwal said there are a total 1,95,48,846 registered voters in the state (1,04,16,965 males, 91,31,447 females, and 434 third gender.) Haryana has 19,863 polling stations, all located on the ground floor to ensure accessibility for disabled voters. The average number of voters per polling station stands at 984, the release said.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Students on Thursday afternoon thrashed a senior professor of the Punjabi University, Patiala, accusing him of harassment leading to death of a girl student. Professor Surjit Singh, coordinator of the five-year integrated programme (languages) is currently admitted to a private hospital in Patiala. Punjabi University students stage a protest on the campus

The university authorities said that the professor received head injuries and was under observation in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

The trouble started when the students started protesting, alleging that the professor was mentally harassing a first-year student of the five-year integrated course in Punjabi by not granting her medical leave. The students alleged that the professor scolded her for being absent.

As per university authorities, the girl was suffering from a chronic disease, and her health deteriorated in the hostel. She was taken home by her parents, where she died.

The professor has been rude to the deceased girl. He would scold her for taking too many leaves. She used to remain tense and her health further deteriorated. We want that the professor should be immediately suspended, Satvir Singh, a student, said.

Vice-Chancellor professor Arvind also had a word with the students, who were mostly from a five-year integrated programme.

Giving details the V-C said that the girls health deteriorated on Wednesday morning in the hostel. She was taken to the universitys health centre in an ambulance. She was given symptomatic treatment and she returned to the hostel. After a few hours, her parents took her home. During the wee hours on Thursday, she died at her residence. She was suffering from a chronic disease, the V-C added.

When asked about the allegations of the students, VC Prof Arvind, said, During the discussion with the protesting students, I have asked them to give me a written complaint against the professor. I havent received any complaint so far. I have not received any complaint against this professor in the past.

Terming it as an unfortunate incident, the V-C said strict action would be taken. It will be dealt with strictly. We are writing to the police to file an FIR in the case. It seems that it was planned by someone, the V-C said.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Over four months after a 38-year-old woman was found murdered in a hotel room in Lohgarh, Zirakpur, on May 1, police have cracked the case with the arrest of her live-in partner. The accused, Paramjit Singh, in custody of Mohali police. (HT Photo)

After smothering the woman to death, the accused, Paramjit Singh, alias Sonu Narang, 40, had parked his scooter near the Sirhind canal to pass off his disappearance as suicide and fled to Ludhiana, said police.

Addressing the media on Thursday, Mohali senior superintendent of police (SSP) Sandeep Garg said the victim, Babita, hailed from Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. She was found dead in a room at Hotel Shaan in Lohgarh, Zirakpur, on May 1.

Babita had checked into the hotel with Paramjit and his two minor children, claiming that they had sold their property in Himachal Pradesh and will be staying at the hotel till they buy a a house in Zirakpur.

As per hotel management, the man had given his Aadhaar card for booking the room, which reflected his name as Suneet and native as Kangra, Himachal Pradesh.

The hotel staff in their statement to the police had said that the man left the hotel with the two children on April 30 morning and returned alone in the afternoon, before again walking out around 11 pm. When the housekeeping staff knocked on the rooms door on May 1, there was no response.

After waiting till afternoon, the hotel management opened the door with the master key and were shocked to find the woman dead, with her nose bleeding profusely.

Following the bodys discovery, police had registered a case under Section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code and started investigation into the matter.

Led by superintendent of police (SP, Rural) Manpreet Singh, a team, including Zirakpur SHO inspector Simarjeet Singh and other law enforcement officials, initiated a rigorous probe to trace the absconding killer.

The team analysed the available clues and evidence collected from the crime scene, following which they zeroed in on Paramjit, Babitas live-in partner, as the primary suspect, said the SSP.

The team traced Paramjits movements after the crime, which led them to Sirhind Canal. There, the suspect had abandoned his scooter in a calculated attempt to mislead authorities by creating the impression of a suicide.

However, undeterred by his tactics, the team, with the help of technical and human intelligence, traced Paramjit to Ludhiana, where he had been hiding since the commission of the crime, the SSP added.

The motive and circumstances surrounding the murder are still under investigation, he said. The womans family is settled in Bholath, Kapurthala, after leaving Kangra.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Security forces on Thursday encircled two Lashkar militants responsible for the deaths of Colonel Manpreet Singh, the commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Major Ashish Dhonchak, also from the same battalion, and deputy superintendent of police (DSP) Humayun Muzamil Bhat during an encounter in the Garol forest at Kokernag in Anantnag district of Kashmir Valley on Wednesday. Army personnel and a CRPF vehicle near the site where the encounter is underway between security forces and militants in the Garol forest near Kokernag in Anantnag district on Thursday. (ANI Photo)

Also Read: Mohalis Col Manpreet was 2nd generation army officer

Police said the operation to neutralise the two Lashkar-e-Toiba militants is underway. In solemn tribute to the valour of Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak and DSP Humayun Bhat, who laid down their lives leading from the front during this ongoing operation, our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LET terrorists, including Uzair Khan, J&K Police said on its official handle on X, formerly Twitter.

Senior army and police officers are monitoring the operation.

Sources said that Uzair Khan, who is a Lashkar commander, had joined militant ranks last year.

The body of DSP Bhat, the son of a retired DIG of J&K Police Ghulam Hassan Bhat, was laid to rest at his ancestral village in Tral on Wednesday night.

On Wednesday evening, Kashmir DGP Dilbag Singh said that perpetrators of the criminal act would be brought to justice soon.

The falcon squad of The Resistance Front (TRF) had claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement on social media, claiming that it was to avenge the killing of Mohammad Riyaz, who belonged to Poonch, in Rawalkote in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir recently.

Leaders pay tributes

National Conference leader and former chief minister Omar Abdullah mourned the death of the army officers and DSP. Terrible terrible news from J&K. An army colonel, a major and a J&K Police DySP gave the ultimate sacrifice in an encounter in Kokernag area of south Kashmir. DySP Humayan Bhat, Major Ashish Dhonchak, and Colonel Manpreet Singh laid down their lives in an encounter with terrorists. May their souls rest in peace and may their loved ones find strength at this difficult time, Omar wrote on X on Wednesday evening.

Peoples Democratic Party leader and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti expressed condolences to the families of the officers. There is no place for such abominable acts of violence, she said.

Peoples Conference chairman Sajjad Lone termed it a sad day. My heart goes out for the families of the three valiant officers who were martyred today. A very sad day. May they rest in peace, he said in a statement.

BJP state spokesman Altaf Thakur said: I pay glorious tributes to bravehearts Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak, and DySP Humayun Muzamil Bhat for laying down their lives for the country. Our security forces are committed to root out terror from J&K soil and those behind the killing of heroes wont be spared.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
A city resident lost 49 lakh to online fraudsters while looking to encash profits earned by crypto currency trading. Deepti, however, did not receive the money. According to the information, she lost  49,36,303 that she had invested over different transactions. (Getty Images)

The complainant, Deepti, 36, a resident of Sector 6 Mansa Devi complex, who works for a private company in IT Park, Chandigarh, told police that she came across an advertisement on Facebook for crypto currency trading. She created an account on the website access through the ad.

On July 1, 2022, she received a phone call from a person who suggested that she invest US $250 in cryptocurrency on the website. The same was followed by a Skype call with a person identifying himself as Harsh, who claimed to be from Laxa Company. He told her that he was a personal advisor and would assist her in trading.

Later on December 26, 2022, Harsh told her that she can withdraw $US40,000 (around 33 lakh) from her account as profits and was asked to share her bank details.

Deepti shared the details and the accused told her that the money had been deposited in her account. However, with the money not reflecting in her account even after three days, she called the accused, who told her that she will have to pay 30% commission to complete the transfer.

She lodged a complaint with the cyber police only to receive a phone call from a woman, identifying herself as Shilpa. The caller told her that she would receive her money if she began trading again.

Deepti, however, did not receive the money. According to the information, she lost 49,36,303 that she had invested over different transactions.

A case under sections 419, 420 (both cheating), 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code has been registered at the cyber crime police station, Sector 12, Panchkula.

Couple loses 51k to swindler posing as insurance firm employee

A couple, meanwhile, was duped of 51,566 in lieu of insurance. In his complaint, Amit Sharma said his wife had received a call from a person who claimed to be from Care (formerly Religare Insurance) company.

The caller, Abhinav, suggested to the couple that they switch to Care for insurance coverage. Later, on August 30, he sent Sharma a payment link and a quotation through email. Sharma made the payment and was told that he would get a verification call within 24 hours, after which he would receive policy documents.

Despite several follow-ups, Sharma did not receive any confirmation and realised that he had been duped after contacting the Care customer care.

A cheating case has been registered.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Intelligence-based operations conducted by the internal security wing of Punjab Police have led to a record seizure of drugs, around 200 kg of heroin, in different operations in the past 40 days. Most of these recoveries have been done by the State Special Operation Cell (SSOC) wing of Internal Security at Fazilka. A specialised police wing usually deals with cases related to internal security and terror but lately has been roped in to act on various intelligence inputs and curtail widespread drug smuggling across the international border with Pakistan. Intelligence-based operations conducted by the internal security wing of Punjab Police have led to a record seizure of drugs, around 200 kg of heroin, in different operations in the past 40 days

Punjab Police senior official said this has happened due to a change in strategy wherein the law enforcement agencies have decided to go after the big fish involved in the drug smuggling operations.

A special list of smugglers from Pakistan and India has been prepared by the state police, intelligence agencies and special task force (STF) against drugs. Teams have been deployed to analyse their activities. The operations in the past 40 days were all based on analysis done by our teams that have worked at the grassroots to pinpoint the smugglers. Technical assistance, using all means available with us, helped us in a big way to nab big fish, a senior official involved in these operations, who didnt wish to be named, said.

Biggest catch this year

On August 7, The Punjab Police recovered 77.8kg of heroin, in one of the largest seizures of the opioid drug this year, as they busted two cross-border drug trafficking rackets in the past 24 hours, with the arrest of four smugglers. The subsequent probe has found that the accused went to Pakistan to bring the consignment via Sutlej which enters Pakistan and then re-enters India at several places along the international border, an official said.

All four accused crossed over to Pakistan when Sutlej was in spate. They stayed at Lahore for a few days and enjoyed hospitality in a five-star stay before coming back with a huge consignment, an official, privy to probe, said.

In another case, Jalandhar Rural Police managed to nab Malkiat Singh alias Kali from his village Tendi Wala in Ferozepur with 9kg heroin. Two days later another 12 kg was again recovered from him as police realized that the total consignment smuggled from across the border, with the help of swimmers, was 50kg.

Police teams have effectively recovered 43.5kg of heroin after arresting at least five drug smugglers, including one swimmer identified as Joga Singh, while the search is on to nab the remaining two swimmers identified as Gurdeep Singh alias Rangi and Gurwinder Singh alias Mashtangi, both resident of village Tendi Wala in Ferozepur.

Most people held are couriers in dire need of money

Most of the accused arrested in these operations were working as couriers and knew nothing about the operations. Take the case of a module busted by SSOC, Fazilka, wherein two accused Sandeep Singh and Subeg Singh were working as granthis in a local gurdwara and were arrested with 20 kg of heroin.

Our probe found that the two accused were engaged by local smugglers as couriers because they were in dire need of money to clear family debt, an official involved in the probe revealed.

Similarly, in another module busted by SSOC on August 21 in which 29 kg of heroin was recovered, two Pakistani nationals were held while they were crossing the border to the Indian side. They were hired by Indian smugglers.

One of the accused in the Ferozepur big haul case, Jagdeep Singh Joga from Sadiq of Faridkot was hired to bring consignment with a promise of 2 lakh per kg, the probe has revealed. He was a famous swimmer in the area and payments were made via hawala, the probe found.

Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav said under the new strategy, the cops have developed a local-level approach to deal with the big fish. Special focus is to catch the big smugglers involved in the trade by analysing their movements to seize their properties, the DGP said.

Special DGP Internal Security, RN Dhoke, said it is a well-coordinated effort. Our teams have prepared targets in the form of big fish and have started tracking their movements, Dhoke said.

GFX: Major heroin hauls

July 23: 20kg heroin recovered from granthis identified as Nishan Singh of Jora Singh Nagar in Ferozepur

August 6: 77.8 kg heroin (41.8kg + 36kg) and three pistols seized in two separate cases with the arrest of four traffickers

Aug 16: 3kg heroin recovered in Ferozepur

Aug 21: 29.2kg heroin seized with arrest of two Pak nationals in Ferozepur.

Sept 7: 43.5kg of heroin in a tranche of 50kg recovered with arrest trafficker Malkiat Singh alias Kali

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A day after Aam Aadmi Party national convener and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann inaugurated Punjabs first School of Eminence in Amritsar amid much fanfare, the AAP MLA from Amritsar North, Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, said the school had already been functioning as a very good one. Aam Aadmi Party national convener and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal with Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann after inaugurating the states first School of Eminence in Amritsar on Wednesday. (Sameer Sehgal/HT)

Also read: Education revolution has begun in Punjab: AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal

Replying in Punjabi to a social media post shared by AAP Amritsar South MLA and former minister Dr Inderbir Singh Nijjar, Kunwar Vijay wrote: Doctor Sahib, congratulations to you as well. But this school was already a behatreen (fine) one and made a smart school by previous regimes. Indeed, some renovations have been done now, but it was (late CPI MLA from Amritsar West) Satpal Dang who gave it a facelift. His niece, Madhu Dang, recently organised a function there that I attended. The academic results of this school have been good, too. But, didnt we (the AAP) promise to set up new schools? Please share your views on this.

In his post, Dr Nijjar shared pictures of the school with the title, a new initiative of sikhya kranti (education revolution).

After a screenshot of Kunwar Vijays comment was being widely shared on social media, it was promptly deleted.

After inaugurating the school in Chheherta, Kejriwal and Mann addressed a rally, terming it the dawn of revolution of education in the state.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Confirming 7,80,000 in cash and a Toyota Innova car as proceeds of terrorism, the NIA special court, Panchkula, has forfeited the seized property of four aides of Pakistan-based proscribed listed Khalistani terrorist Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda. Confirming  7,80,000 in cash and a Toyota Innova car as proceeds of terrorism, the NIA special court, Panchkula, has forfeited the seized property of four aides of Pakistan-based proscribed listed Khalistani terrorist Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda. (Representational image)

The NIA special court has now ordered confirmation of the seizures and forfeited the said property under Section 26 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, to the state on the grounds that the same constituted proceeds of terrorism.

The court of Rajeev Goyal, special judge under NIA Haryana at Panchkula, on September 8 had allowed an application moved by the NIA for the forfeiture of the property, including 7,80,000 in cash and a Toyota Innova car, which was used by the accused for transporting arms, ammunition, explosives and narcotics across India.

The NIA is proceeding with regard to the above property as per provisions of the UAPA and accordingly, while observing that the property in question constitutes proceeds of terrorism, the orders of seizure are hereby confirmed and the cash amount as well as Toyota Innova car are hereby forfeited to state, said the court order of September 8, while allowing NIAs application.

The court order also pointed out that notice was issued to accused persons, but they chose not to file any reply, which means that they have nothing to say concerning the confirmation of the seizure and forfeiture of cash amount and the car.

This is the first time the NIA had proactively sought the properties of terrorists to be forfeited to the state under section 26 of UAPA after being attached as proceeds of terrorism.

Forfeiture of properties is a major new tool in NIAs strategy to dismantle the terrorist ecosystem in the country. The NIA has adopted this strategy to squeeze the financial resources of the terrorist outfits as well as their operatives and associates. The agency has already attached several terrorist-linked properties and the process of their forfeiture is under way in various courts.

Ammunition seized in May 2022

The Haryana Police had on May 5, 2022, seized three IEDs, one pistol with two magazines, 31 rounds of ammunition and 1.30 lakh in cash from the four accused, Gurpreet Singh alias Gopi, Amandeep Singh alias Deepa, Parminder Singh alias Pinder and Bhupinder Singh. They were going to deliver the consignment to Adilabad, Telangana, in the Innova car, in which a specially designed cavity had been created to hide the arms and cash.

A case was registered at police station Madhubhan, Haryana. On May 24, 2022, the NIA took over the investigations in the case.

Investigations by NIA revealed that the four men had received multiple consignments of arms, ammunition, explosives and narcotics, which were sent via drones from Pakistan by wanted terrorist Rinda. The supplies were delivered at pre-determined locations near the Indo-Pak border. Further investigations showed that Gopi had earned a lot of money by smuggling arms, ammunition, explosives and narcotics.

Extensive investigations led to the seizure of the Innova car and 7,80,000 by the NIA on March 30, 2023.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Shailee Dogra A senior reporter based in Chandigarh, Shailee Dogra covers SAS Nagar (Mohali) district. ...view detail
Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai Thursday approached the Delhi High Court seeking quashing of the central governments order denying him political clearance to travel to New York to attend Columbia India Energy Dialogue. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai (HT Photo)

The Ministry of External Affairs has said in its September 12 letter that it has examined the proposal and declined political clearance as the visit from Government of NCT of Delhi would not be appropriate as India is being represented at the Columbia-India Energy Dialogue by Shri Suman Kumar Bery, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog (Ministerial-rank).

Rai has sought permission to travel to the US city from September 15 to 21 to attend the programme being held on September 18.

Justice Subramonium Prasad listed the plea for hearing on Friday.

Rai, in his petition filed through Delhi government standing counsel Santosh Kumar Tripathi and advocate Arun Panwar, said his official request to attend the event has been rejected assigning arbitrary and malafide reasons.

The invitation is specific for different persons representing different stakeholders and does not intend to confine delegates at national level only for the formal representation of the country, therefore the reason cited herein above is nothing but a colourable exercise of power and accordingly bad in law, the petition said.

Rai said he received the invitation on August 13 for attending and speaking at the event. He said is clear from the invitation that it is a dialogue by all the stakeholders, along with Indian Think Tanks to address the essential issues of energy consumption expected to grow about 1.5 times in the coming decades.

Therefore, citing the reason that India is represented by a bureaucrat of ministerial level is neither intended nor desired by the Global Energy Policy, the organisation holding the dialogue, he said.

The plea said the Centre has permitted other officers from different states to attend the event, and the reasons given in the order denying permission to Rai are completely contradicted by these actions.

It is also not out of place to mention that Arvind Kumar, Special Chief Secretary, Municipal Administration and Urban Development, Telangana Government is also a part of the programme and has been selected as a speaker to speak on the issue of balancing energy, security and energy transition priorities in India.

"This is demonstrated by the fact that the impugned order cites reasons that are contradicted by other actions taken by the respondents. This clearly demonstrates that the impugned order is a colourable exercise of power, the petition said.

It said Delhi, as a major urban city, plays a key role in transition to clean energy and how national policies impact everyday activities of the public.

The petition said the denial letter has been issued in haste, without any application of mind, and in sheer violation of the principles of natural justice.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Delhi Police is likely to send a request to the Indian Railways seeking their approval for prosecution sanction against seven officials who are likely to be named in the chargesheet for the electrocution case at New Delhi station in June. Police is likely to file the chargesheet in the next 15 days. (File photo)

Police said these seven officials were questioned earlier and released later in connection with the case.

Police is likely to file the chargesheet in the next 15 days.

Since the incident was reported on June 25, the chargesheet needs to be filed before September 25.

The investigation is complete from our end, and we have named the responsible officials. We have now written to the Indian Railways with the detailed report seeking prosecution sanction. We will file the chargesheet as soon as we receive the sanction from the railways, said a Delhi police officer.

Also Read: Woman electrocuted while harvesting fields in Greater Noida

A 35-year-old woman, Sakshi Ahuja, who stepped onto a flooded street at the New Delhi Railway Station on June 25, died by electrocution after accidentally coming into contact with a loose wire from a nearby electric pole.

Police had registered a case under relevant Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections dealing with negligent conduct with respect to machinery and death by negligence while the probe was on.

The railway police recently submitted a report to police with its technical findings which suggests negligence by seven officials at various levels who have been held accountable for the alleged carelessness in maintaining the electrical equipment.

HT had earlier reported that according to officials, the electricity leakage happened due to insulation failure.

The initial report mentioned, negligence in the upkeep and maintenance of the wiring cable at the incident spot caused electricity leakage.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A 48-year-old Indian Army officer was mercilessly attacked, wounded, and robbed of his two mobile phones, credit and debit cards, and 10,000 in cash by three men in the parking lot of Triveni Complex in south Delhis Malviya Nagar late on Tuesday, the police today. Representational image.

Two suspects have been arrested while a search is on to nab the third culprit.

The assault left Colonel Vinit Mahto unconscious near his car till the next morning. When he regained consciousness, he found his cash and other items were missing. He called his wife to inform about the incident, who then rushed to the spot and took him to AIIMS Trauma Centre with the help of a policeman.

Deputy commissioner of police (south) Chandan Chowdhary said that the complainant, a resident of Chanakyapuri, came to Malviya Nagar police station on Wednesday and gave a written complaint regarding the assault and robbery.

Detailing the incident in his complaint, the army officer said that on Tuesday night, he had gone to Triveni Complex along with a friend after attending a seminar. Around 11.30pm, he reached the place and went to the car park to light a cigarette. There a man asked him for a lighter, who then began abusing him, leading to a physical duel, said the police.

The man called two more persons, and they together beat the army officer mercilessly and one of them took out his mobile phone. The other person took out other items from the officers car after assaulting him. He became dizzy and later found that his two mobile phones, credit card, voter card and 10,000 in cash were missing from his car, Chowdhary said.

A case under sections 394, 411 and 34 of the Indian Penal Code was registered at the Malviya Nagar police station, and multiple teams were formed to identify and nab the suspects.

We identified all three suspects and have arrested two of them. Two stolen phones have been recovered from them, she added.

The arrested suspects were identified as Mukul Singh (28) from Jagdamba Camp in Neb Sarai, and Mithun alias Deepak (22) from Chirag Delhi. The police identified the third suspect by his first name Bobby, who is also from Jagdamba Camp.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved orders on the sale and manufacture of green firecrackers in the country even as it pulled up the Delhi Police for issuing temporary licences to shopkeepers in Delhi-NCR despite a ban imposed on traditional firecrackers by the court in October 2018. On Wednesday, the Supreme Court had expressed concerns over the enforcement of its ban wondering how crackers found their way into the city despite a strict restriction in place. (ANI)

Read here: Firecrackers available in national capital despite ban: Supreme Court

The issue was examined in a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by three minors who complained that the ban was openly being flouted even as the firecrackers found their way into the city.

In the same matter, the Centre informed the court about green firecracker formulations prepared by two expert bodies  the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the National Environment Engineering Research Institute (NEERI)  and sought the courts approval for the same.

The Delhi Police, represented by additional solicitor general (ASG) Aishwarya Bhati, submitted a chart giving details of the action taken from 2016 till August this year against those who sold/stored or even burst firecrackers.

The bench of justices AS Bopanna and MM Sundresh said, What is the point in taking action after it happens? There must be a will on your part to find the source where it is coming from.

Bhati said no permanent licences were issued since 2016 and in the last three years, the Delhi government has imposed a complete ban on all firecrackers.

However, senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, who appeared for the petitioners, showed evidence that temporary licences were issued to shopkeepers for the sale of crackers as late as September last year.

He also showed evidence from the websites of 10 manufacturers promising to deliver a host of banned crackers available on their websites within 48 hours.

The court told Bhati, Whether permanent or temporary licence, the effect is the same. As on date, there is a ban on crackers. What is the difference between green or black or any colour when there is a ban in place? It is a violation of our order. Tell them (police) not to issue any licence.

Read here: Delhi govt bans firecracker sales to curb pollution as part of winter action plan

Bhati said no system can be foolproof as people would take the law into their own hands but there was an earnest effort on the part of the police to curtail such violations.

On Wednesday, the court had expressed concerns over the enforcement of its ban wondering how crackers found their way into the city despite a strict restriction in place.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
The Calcutta high court on Thursday directed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to submit property details of Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee and his company. TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee arrives at ED office in Kolkata for questioning. (PTI)

The court also sought the names and property details of actors whose names are under scanner of the investigating agencies probing into the multi-crore recruitment scam in state-run schools across West Bengal.

Let the Enforcement Directorate submit documents related to the list of assets of Leaps and Bounds Pvt Ltd since its inception, the list of assets of the companys CEO, director and all its members, the companys memorandum of association and the articles of association, said the Calcutta high courts single bench of Justice Amrita Sinha.

The federal agency had questioned Banerjee for more than eight hours at its Kolkata office on Wednesday. The ED had issued a statement on August 23 saying that the TMC MP was the companys CEO and also a director in the company from April 2012 to January 2014.

I am still in that post. It is being alleged by a section that the proceeds of the recruitment scam, was siphoned into the accounts of Leaps and Bounds. Give me proof that 10 paisa was siphoned into the companys accounts, Banerjee said while speaking to media persons on Wednesday night after coming out of the agencys office.

Also Read: TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee arrives at ED office in Kolkata for questioning

The ED earlier said it seized incriminating documents from the companys office during raids in connection with the recruitment scam.

Reports filed by investigating agencies mentions about involvement of several film industry actors. The names of the actors of the film industry, who are under the scanner of the investigating agencies, and their list of assets shall also be submitted before this court, the bench said.

In March this year the ED questioned Bonny Sengupta, an actor known for his roles in Bengali movies, in connection with the recruitment scam.

The Calcutta high court will next hear the matter on September 21.

Three TMC legislators including former minister Partha Chatterjee have been arrested in the scam by federal agencies.

Last month, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said while addressing a political program that she received a message saying that her nephew Abhishek Banerjee may also be arrested, HT reported on September 13.

Banerjee was made a member of oppostion group, INDIAs, coordination committee when the regional and national parties in the alliance held their third meeting in Mumbai on September 1.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Half the academic session 2023-24 is already over but government-run secondary schools where vocational training to enrolled students was to start from April 1, 2023 are yet to do so. Reason: These schools are yet to get the promised trainers. Under the centrally sponsored Revised Vocational Education Scheme, vocational training should have started in 356 government-run secondary schools of the state from April 1. Students studying at a government secondary school in Prayagraj. (HT file photo)

But due to non-allocation of trainers from the Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA), Lucknow, training for vocational courses has not been started in the selected schools despite enrolment of students for the courses like sewing, food and beverage service assistant as well as assistant beauty therapist among others.

In the meeting of the Project Approval Board held in the Union education ministry, training for vocational courses like security guard, sewing machine operator, food and beverage service assistant, assistant beauty therapist, meter technician, store operation assistant, physical education assistant etc in 356 government schools was approved. The minutes of the meeting were released on May 25.

After that, on July 26, additional state project director of Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA), Vishnukant Pandey sought a report on starting the training and admission of at least 25 students in each school.

Following the initiative, students too have taken admission in the prescribed courses in all the schools. However, till now the promised two trainers each for every school have not been allotted for shouldering the responsibility of imparting the training of these courses.

Training for vocational courses was started in 200 government schools in the academic sessions 2015-16 and 2016-17. However, the state government suddenly stopped the training in 2018-19. In these 200 government secondary schools and 89 new ones, the training for vocational courses started last year. Vocational training in another 356 government secondary schools is to start from 2023-24 session.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
KANPUR The noose is being tightened around BJP leader Priya Ranjan Diwakar after a farmer Babu Singh, 52, accused him and his aides of grabbing 10 bighas of his land and committed suicide by jumping in front of a speeding train in Kanpur on September 9. It has been corroborated that no money was paid to the family against the land deal, said JCP Anand Prakash Tiwari. (Pic for representation)

Commissioner of police RK Swarnkar assured Singhs wife Bittan Devi of justice, saying: Those responsible will go to jailthe police are conducting raids for their arrest. He told the farmers wife and daughters that they could approach him directly in case of any issue.

In his suicide note addressed to chief minister Yogi Adityanath, Babu Singh, a resident of Chakeri in Kanpur, alleged that Ranjan usurped his farm land by giving him a bogus cheque of 6.25 crore, stating that this was the reason for his extreme step. The note was found near the track, said police.

The police booked six people, including Priya Ranjan Diwakar, his nephew Jitendra, driver Bablu, Noida businessman Rahul Jain, Madhur Pandey and Shivam Singh Chauhan on charges of abetment to suicide and cheating on a complaint filed by the wife of the deceased on Sunday.

The FIR was lodged under sections 306 (abetment to suicide), 506 (insult), 420 (cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property) and 120-B (criminal conspiracy), said police.

Ranjan, a member of the state commission for protection of child rights and former BJP candidate from Kishni assembly constituency in Mainpuri, allegedly offered to buy the land from Singh by pressuring him. Giving in to the pressure tactics, Singh agreed to sell the property for 6.25 crore, for which he was given a cheque, alleged the farmers wife Bittan Devi, 45.

After Babu Singh transferred the land through registry in March, 2023, Ranjan asked him for the cheque on the pretext of an error that needed to be fixed. He promised that Singh would get the cheque the next day, but did not pay the money, according to the FIR lodged with the Chakeri police against the BJP leader and five others.

Bittan Devi said her husband was running from pillar to post after this forgery, and was very disturbed on seeing that Priya Ranjan and others had started selling the plots in Ahirvan village in suburban Kanpur.

He left the house on September 9 evening and did not come back. We searched for him and came to know about his suicide, Priya Ranjan and his henchmen have destroyed us, said Bittan Devi, accompanied by her daughters Ruby and Kajal. The registry is illegal as no money was paid to us - neither by cheque nor by any other means. The bank account details of my husband will make it clear that not a single rupee has been paid, she added.

The investigation in the case is being monitored by joint commissioner of police (law and order) Anand Prakash Tiwari.

The JCP said bank accounts linked to the accused and his aides have been seized. Two are of prime accused Priya Ranjan, two of Rahul Jain, three of Shivam Singh Chauhan, one each of Babloo Yadav, Jitendra Yadav and Madhur Pandey.

The police have obtained the certified copies of the registry agreement between the two parties and will get details of the bank accounts from Kanpur and Noida branch of the bank. The police are conducting raids for the arrest of the accused, he added.

On Thursday, the police carried out searches in Noida, Lucknow, Mainpuri, Prayagraj, Fatehpur and questioned 50 people.

JCP Anand Prakash Tiwari said the teams got important clues and the accused would be arrested soon. It has been corroborated that no money was paid to the family against the land deal. We have sent the suicide note to the forensic science lab in Lucknow, he added.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
LUCKNOW Holding chaupals in villages, distributing pamphlets, addressing public at street corners and playing party songs all along, the Samajwadi Partys 2024 edition of Desh Bachao, Desh Banao bicycle rally has already become the longest ever - both in terms of days and distance. Riding mostly between 10am and 7pm, the cyclists are covering about 70 km a day. (HT Photo)

After being rolled out from Prayagraj on August Kranti Diwas (August 9), the rally entered its 37th day and clocked 2,600km on Thursday.

With the bicycle as its election symbol, bicycle rallies are one of the most preferred modes of pre-election and election campaigns of the Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party. In the past, the partys founding president late Mulayam Singh Yadav, several prominent leaders and SP president Akhilesh Yadav rode bicycles as part of the partys campaigns.

Before this, the longest Desh Bachao, Desh Banao bicycle rally spanned 27 days covering a distance of 1,500 km - from Ghazipur in eastern UP to New Delhi - in 2018-19 in the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

This time, we aim to cover a distance of over 25,000km in two phases spanning all the 80 Lok Sabha and 403 assembly constituencies in the state. The first phase that began on August 9, will end on Netaji Mulayam Singh Yadavs birth anniversary in his ancestral village-Saifai (Etawah) on November 22. The second phase will start on Dr Bhimrao Ambedkars death anniversary on December 6 and will tentatively end on Republic Day (January 26) at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, said Abhishek Yadav, president of Samajwadi Party Lohia Vahini - the youth wing of the SP. Abhishek is leading the cycle rally.

Traversing through Prayagraj, Kaushambi, Chitrakoot, Banda, Fatehpur, Rae Bareli, Pratapgarh, Amethi, Sultanpur, Ambedkarnagar, and Faizabad, the rally comprising nearly 100 cyclists is currently covering Basti.

The cyclists have a support vehicle and an audio system vehicle as part of the entourage. The support vehicle has some bicycle repair kits, a cycle mechanic, water, and refreshments while the audio-visual vehicle is equipped with speakers and a public address system to help cyclists make speeches and play SP songs along the way.

As August Kranti Diwas is the day when freedom fighters had called for the end of the British rule in India, we launched the rally on the day as we demand the ouster of the BJP rule, said Abhishek.

SPs youth leaders and workers are the main riders, but in different Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha constituencies, party office-bearers and former legislators are also participating for some distances.

Through a cordless mic connected to the audio vehicle, Abhishek and other cyclists have also been addressing people on the streets while pedalling their cycles. In some legs of the rally, women party workers also join the entourage.

The cyclists are talking about the pain people are suffering due to oppression, injustice and terror of BJP rule and the problems faced by PDA (Pichada, Dalit, Alpsankhyak), poor, farmers, women etc. and sensitise people about the policies and philosophies of the SP and tell them about the public welfare work done by the previous SP government. The cycle yatra will also campaign for a caste census.

Riding mostly between 10am and 7pm, the cyclists are covering about 70 km a day. The partys local units take care of food and night stays for the contingent.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Mumbai: In impending news of heavy rains returning to the city with full force, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for the city starting Thursday till Monday. The intensity of rain will gradually increase and is expected to peak over the weekend, bringing heavy rains, thunderstorms, and lightning at isolated places. HT Image

Thane and Palghar are also on yellow alert till Monday except for Sunday, when it is on orange alert.

The observatory in Santacruz recorded 34.3mm of rain, while the one in Colaba recorded only traces between 8:30am and 5:30pm on Thursday. According to the BMCs press release, however, the city saw 6.31mm, the eastern suburbs saw 18.87mm and the western suburbs 8.74mm between 8am and 6pm.

Theres a well-marked low-pressure system right now over the coast of Odisha. Its likely to move inside over Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh in the next two days, said Sushma Nair, scientist at IMD Mumbai, explaining the system behind the showers. Its going to be a wet weekend.

On Friday, rains over Mumbai will be light to moderate, said Mahesh Palawat, vice president at Skymet Weather. Thereafter the intensity will gradually increase, peaking on September 18 and 19, the rains lasting till at least September 20. Then it will gradually decrease. That, however, will not mean the end of the monsoon over the city.

Amidst this expected heavy rain, a key piece of the IMDs forecasting system, the doppler radar has been dysfunctional since last Saturday, September 9. Athreya Shetty, an independent meteorologist, said, Weve been unable to track where the showers are coming from, and which areas are affected. If it continues not to work over the weekend when the heavy spell is expected, it may be a big issue.

He explained the doppler helps in nowcasts, a more immediate forecast for the next hours, and on a micro-local scale. Its useful to see when exactly the rains will start, if cloud bands are forming and when will they move in.

The radar is being repaired by the IMDs engineers, informed Sunil Kamble, head of the Regional Meteorological Centre, Mumbai, although he could not assure of when it would be up and running in case replacement of parts is needed. We use other satellites and other numerical models for our forecasting. The radar is only one of the tools at our disposal, so there should not be much of an issue.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for the Mumbai metropolitan region and certain other areas in Maharashtra, with a forecast of heavy rainfall at isolated places until September 18, just before the Ganesh festival. The 10-day Ganesh festival, commencing on September 19, marks the beginning of the festive season in the country, followed by Navratri, Dussehra, Diwali, and Christmas celebrations. Regions like Nasik, Nandurbar, Kolhapur, and Aurangabad have been also been issued warnings of heavy rainfall towards the weekend. (Representational Image)

The Mumbai meteorological center stated on X (formerly Twitter), Due to active monsoon conditions, enhanced rainfall activity is expected over parts of Konkan, Madhya Maharashtra & Marathwada during 15-18. The weather office further added, Heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms at isolated places is very likely over these regions during the above period. Enhanced rainfall activity is also expected over parts of Vidarbha from September 14.

Additionally, an orange alert has been issued for Thane and Palghar districts on Sunday (September 17) with a prediction of heavy rainfall in isolated areas along with lightning and gusty winds. Pune and Satara have also received an orange alert for Saturday and Sunday from the weather office, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall in hilly regions.

Regions like Nasik, Nandurbar, Kolhapur, and Aurangabad have been also been issued warnings of heavy rainfall towards the weekend.

Private jet skids off runway during heavy rain in Mumbai, injuring 8 people

A private jet carrying eight individuals veered off the runway at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport on Thursday and crashed during landing amid heavy rain. The airport authorities said that among the eight individuals, including a crew member, who sustained injuries, all have been transported to the nearest hospital. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) attributed the aircraft's skid off the runway to poor visibility caused by heavy rainfall.

A video clip has surfaced showing the overcast skies dominating the airport airspace, with the aircraft wrecked on the runway's edge. Fire trucks and the airport rescue team were also present at the scene.

The aircraft had a total of eight people on board, including six passengers, one of whom was from Denmark, and two crew members. The passengers included Dhruv Kotak, Lars Sorensen, KK Krishnadas, Aakarsh Sethi, Arul Sali, and Kamakshi. The flight was operated by pilots Sunil and Neil.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Maratha activist Manoj Jarange-Patil called off his hunger strike on Thursday after chief minister Eknath Shinde and senior state ministers met him and underlined their commitment to accord reservations for the Maratha community, ending a political crisis that had engulfed the state for 17 days. HT Image

Shinde decided to visit Jarange-Patils protest site of Antarwali Sarati village on Thursday morning along with senior ministers Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Girish Mahajan, Uday Samant, and Union minister of state for railways Raosaheb Danve. He said that he was committed to accord the reservation to the Maratha community and visited Jarange Patil because the activists intention was honest and sincere.

I do not want to name them, but many told me that I should not visit Jarange-Patil as it is against protocol. Despite this, I decided to come as Jarange-Patil is fighting for his community and not for himself. I have assured him that everything will be done as per the promise and the state government is committed for it. Most of his demands have been fulfilled. The remaining ones will take some time as they need to be legally foolproof, the CM said.

After this, Jarange-Patil sipped orange juice handed to him by the chief minister to end the hunger strike that began on August 29 to press for quotas for the community.

The demand for quotas by Marathas is decades old, but in 2018, the state government granted 16% reservation in the face of sweeping protests. It was slashed to 13% in jobs and 12% in education by the Bombay high court. In 2021, the Supreme Court quashed the move.

The current crisis began on September 1, when protest demanding OBC status for Marathas was lathicharged by the police in Jalna  the site of the hunger strike by Jarange-Patil. Under pressure, Shinde announced last week that Marathas from the central Maharashtra region can access reservation under the other backward classes (OBC) category if they can produce a certificate from the Nizam era classifying them as Kunbi, a sub-caste of the community that is already classified as OBC.

But the order  which opened the window for quotas for the community  left all sides unhappy. The Maratha groups said they wanted reservations without any stipulation, and not just for the eight central Maharashtra districts. The OBC and Kunbi groups feared their quotas will be eaten into by the fresh entrants.

Jarange-Patil and some Maratha outfits say that until the Nizam rule was dismantled in September 1948 in central Maharashtra, the Marathas were considered Kunbis, and were effectively OBCs.

Shinde said the government asked for more time as it wanted Maratha reservation to withstand legal scrutiny and requested Jarange-Patil to avail himself of medical treatment.

Shindes visit came after hours-long negotiations between Jarange-Patil and a government delegation led by minister Girish Mahajan till the early hours of the morning.

The delegation convinced Jarange-Patil to not put any fresh conditions before the government and also to call off his hunger strike. The delegation also made him not to press for deputy chief ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar as well as Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivajis descendants Udayanraje Bhosale and Chhatrapati Sambhajiraje to be present .

Five ministers had reached Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar on Tuesday evening, but after the CM deferred his plan, Girish Mahajan and Raosaheb Danve stayed back. They held meetings with Jarange-Patil till 3am ...They also took assurance that Jarange-Patil will call off the strike immediately, said a leader from Shiv Sena on the condition of anonymity.

The Congress questioned why deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis was not with Shinde. Shinde went to meet Jarange-Patil, persuaded him to call of the strike and assured him of reservation. Fadnavis, who represents the largest ruling party, did not accompany the CM. The question remains whether Fadnavis supports the assurance given by the CM, said Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe.

Fadnavis said the government was committed to Marathas, who make up nearly a third of the states population. I am happy that Jarange-Patil called off his strike...We have been implementing other schemes for Marathas and are committed to accord reservation, he posted on X.

Jarange-Patil said he had faith in the government.

This is happening for the first time a chief minister has come personally to ensure that a hunger strike is called off. We have full faith in chief minister Eknath Shinde and knew that only he can give us the reservation. He has been taking all required efforts to restore the reservation. We have also decided to give 40 days to the state government to complete the study on the measures to be taken, the activist said.

He also appealed the community member to continue the protest in peaceful manner.

The state government has already conceded his other demands, including the withdrawal of all cases registered against Maratha quota protesters and the suspension of three senior police officers responsible for the lathi charge on protesters on September 1.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
It was exactly 15 years ago that Manoj Jarange-Patil joined the movement seeking reservation for the Maratha community in government jobs and education. The activist from Shahgad in Jalna even sold 2.5 acres of his four-acre agricultural land to meet his daily expenses that arose out of his participation in marches and protests. PREMIUM Chief minister Eknath Shinde with Manoj Jarange-Patil in Jalna district on Thursday. (PTI)

In the coming years, the agitation gained momentum and leaders such as Vinayak Mete shot to prominence. In 2016-17, lakhs of Maratha youths descended on streets responding to a call by Maratha Kranti Morcha, which has undertaken 57 silent marches so far.

But after the Supreme Court quashed the reservation given by the state government and rejected its review petition two years ago, the voices fell silent. Though the agitation continued without much noise and the resentment among Maratha youths grew, there was a time when the movement was faceless.

To revive the agitation, Jarange-Patil on August 29 began an indefinite hunger strike at his village, Ataravali-Sarate. On the fourth day, when a police team tried to forcibly admit him to a hospital, a clash broke out between the police and the activists supporters. After the lathi-charge and firing of teargas shells made the headlines, the hitherto unknown activist burst into the political limelight overnight.

Now, with his 17-day hunger strike, Jarange-Patil has become a household name across Maharashtra and a section of Maratha community leaders believes that he has filled the void created after the death of Mete in an accident. On Thursday, Jarange-Patil withdrews the strike after chief minister Eknath Shinde and other senior ministers met him at his protest site and assured him to fulfil his demand.

There is no doubt that Jarange-Patil has become the face of the agitation for reservation. Our fight was almost dead after the SC verdict, but he is the one who has reignited the hope in the community, Virendra Pawar, one of the conveners of Maratha Kranti Morcha, said.

The police lathi-charge on September 1 evoked strong reactions from the community across the state. Opposition leaders, including NCP president Sharad Pawar, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, and former chief minister and Congress leader Ashok Chavan, visited the village and expressed their solidarity with Jaranage-Patil.

Virendra Pawar, who has been holding agitations in Mumbai and nearby areas, said, This is the reason I will put up banners with a picture of Jarange-Patil outside Ganpati mandals across the city to remind people of the communitys struggle.

Jarange-Patils first hunger strike over the quota issue was for 12 days in January 2021 when the entire Sasht-Pimpalgaon village in Jalna district participated in it. He then held a three-month agitation in the same village where hundreds joined him. The then chief minister Uddhav Thackeray invited Jarange-Patil for a meeting in Mumbai, after which the activist withdrew his protest.

Sanjiv Bhor Patil, an activist from the community, who held a protest at Shivneri Fort in Pune in February 2009 and the police resorted to lathi-charge, said the September 1 incident led to an eruption of anger that had been simmering in the community for years.

Jarange-Patil has given the agitation a new lease of life, but sentiments do not work in the court of law. His demand of Kunbi certificates to all the Marathas doesnt have a legal backing, Patil said and added, The only thing which the state government can do is to ask the backward classes commission to again prepare a report on social, economic and educational backwardness of the community.

Mrudul Nile, professor in the department of civics and politics, University of Mumbai, believes that the hunger strike and the lathicharge has mobilised the community for the decades-old demand. It will carry momentum for some time because other senior leaders are also making the same demand.

But it remains to be seen if the demand can be accepted in the court of law because of an agitation, he said. The community should work towards proving their social, economic and educational backwardness. It will happen only after the state backward classes commission is directed by the government to compile such data.

Meanwhile, Marathi filmmaker Shivaji Doltade has announced a biopic, Sangharshyoddha, on Jarange-Patils struggle and actor Rohan Patil will play the lead role. The poster of the movie was released by Jarange-Patil in Jalna.

The activist originally hails from Beed district and has settled in Jalna district after marriage.
The stalemate that continued for 17 days over Maratha reservation came to an end on Thursday morning as Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange Patil called off his indefinite hunger strike after chief minister Eknath Shinde, along with other senior state cabinet members, met him at Antarwali-Saatii village in Jalna district. Jarange-Patil sipped orange juice at the hands of the chief minister to end the hunger strike that has been going on since August 29 for the reservation (Twitter/@CMOMaharashtra)

After a back-and-forth about whether the chief minister should visit Jarange-Patil as he deferred the visit on Wednesday evening, Shinde decided to visit him on Thursday morning. He along with other senior ministers, including Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Girish Mahajan, Uday Samant, Union minister of state for railways Raosaheb Danve reached Antarwali Sarati in Jalna and convinced Jarange-Patil to call off the hunger strike.

Jarange-Patil sipped orange juice at the hands of the chief minister to end the hunger strike that has been going on since August 29 for the reservation.

Jarange-Patil, a farmer, has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Antarwali-Sarathi village in Jalna since August 29, demanding that Marathas from Marathwada region be extended reservation under the Other Backward Classes category by declaring them as Kunbis  a sub-caste recognised as OBC.

Also Read: Bhide visits activist, praises CM and Dy CMs for their resolve on reservation for Marathas

CM Shinde said that he was committed to the reservation to the Maratha community and visited Jarange-Patil as the latters intention was honest and sincere.

I do not want to name them, but many told me that I should not visit the Jarange Patil as it is against the protocol. Despite this, I decided to come as Jarange-Patil is fighting for his community and not for himself. I have assured him that everything will be done as per the promise and the state government is committed to it. Most of his demands have been fulfilled. The remaining ones will take some time as they need to be legally full proof, Shinde said.

Shinde also requested Jarange-Patil to take medical treatment at a hospital for at least a few days.

The chief ministers visit comes after the government delegation led by Girish Mahajan recently met him and held overnight talks. They assured that Jarange-Patil would not put any fresh conditions before the government and would call off his hunger strike.

This is happening for the first time that a chief minister has come personally to ensure that the hunger strike is called off. We have full faith in CM Eknath Shinde and know that only he can give us the reservation. He has been making all required efforts to restore the reservation. I am thankful to him and his cabinet members for visiting me personally. We have also decided to give 40 days to the state government to complete the study on the measures to be taken to issue the Kunbi certificates to Marathas, Jarange-Patil said.

He further appealed to the community members to continue the protest peacefully.

Jarange-Patil has already announced to continue the relay hunger strike for the next one month until the government starts issuing them the Kunbi certificates.

The state government has already conceded his other demands, including the withdrawal of cases registered against protesters and the suspension of three senior police officers responsible for the lathi charge on protesters on September 1.

On Monday, after an all-party meeting over the Maratha reservation row, the Maharashtra government decided to withdraw all cases filed against Maratha quota protesters and suspended three senior police officers involved in lathi-charge on agitators in Jalna on September 1 as CM Shinde reiterated his commitment to grant reservation to the influential community and appealed to the main agitator to end his hunger strike.

Shinde also set a deadline of one month for the panel to decide how to give Kunbi caste certificates to Marathas in the Marathawada region.

The demand for quotas by Marathas is decades old, but in 2018, the state government granted 16% reservation in the face of sweeping protests. It was slashed to 13% in jobs and 12% in education by the Bombay high court. In 2021, the Supreme Court quashed the move.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Mumbai: It has been over a year since the University of Mumbai (MU) last conducted its PhD entrance exam in August. Scholars who have been eagerly awaiting the PhD entrance exams are frustrated with the prolonged hiatus, which has left thousands of prospective researchers in limbo. HT Image

During MUs last PhD Entrance Test (PET), around 350 scholars secured admission to various departments. However, the next edition of the PET is not scheduled until the end of this month.

In the past, the PET was administered twice annually, in July and December. However, the pandemic disrupted this regular admission cycle. Expressing concern over the situation, Santosh Dhotre, a joint secretary of Yuva Sena (UBT), said, Students have lost six months of their academic journey due to the universitys failure to conduct the PET on time.

Dhotre and other Yuva Sena members held a meeting with MUs Pro vice-chancellor, professor Ajay Bhamre, on Tuesday, where they urged the university to expedite the PET exams.

Santosh Salunkhe, a psychology student, said, I have been patiently waiting for the PET exam since last year. My masters degree results were released after the PET exam conducted in August, making me eligible for the next one. However, due to the exams difficulty, I opted to wait for the December exam, but MU has yet to announce the date. Ive lost nearly a year because of this uncertainty.

Another student emphasised, Many students from my batch who cleared PET in August 2022 are still unable to secure admissions due to the unavailability of guides for certain courses at the university.

Dhotre added, The delay in conducting PET exams not only impacts individual scholars academic journeys but also raises concerns about the accessibility and efficiency of the admission process at MU.

Meanwhile, an MU official said, The process of conducting the entrance test is going on, and we will announce the schedule very soon.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Mumbai: While potholes have been a menace for the city, especially the suburbs, it came as a boon for the police as they managed to track a 23-year-old history-sheeter who rammed a stolen four-wheeler into an electric pole due to potholes in Vasai-Virar. While interrogating the accused  identified as Shabad alias Baba Naushad Shaikh, a resident of Nalasopara  the police learnt that he had stolen at least 17 vehicles for joyrides and abandoned them after they ran out of fuel. During the interrogation, Shaikh confessed to robbing a key-making machine and several key frames from a shop at Pelhar, Vasai East, and had stolen several vehicles using duplicate keys. The accused used to drive the vehicles and abandon them as soon as they ran out of fuel, said Ambure. (HT PHOTO)

On September 4, the police received a complaint about a silver Wagon R which was stolen from Nalasopara. On checking the CCTV footage of the nearby areas, the vehicle was found abandoned at Sriram Nagar in Nalasopara East. The vehicles front portion was damaged, suggesting that it had met with an accident, said Avinash Ambure, deputy commissioner of police (crime branch), Mira-Bhayandar-Vasai-Virar (MBVV).

The officer added that on asking around, the shopkeepers in the area told that the driver of the vehicle was severely injured after the vehicle hit an electric pole around 12.30am on September 5 and was rushed to the nearby Sai Hospital.

The police then reached the hospital, unearthed the name of the accused, and learnt that he was admitted to the hospital for three days and was discharged on September 9. The police then acquired the phone number of Shaikh, a known house breaker, however, his residential address registered with the service provider was that of Kurla.

We then asked the hospital staff to call Shaikh and ask him to come for a follow-up check-up, another police officer said, adding, On September 11, when Shaikh arrived at the hospital, we arrested him.

During the interrogation, Shaikh confessed to robbing a key-making machine and several key frames from a shop at Pelhar, Vasai East, and had stolen several vehicles using duplicate keys. The accused used to drive the vehicles and abandon them as soon as they ran out of fuel, said Ambure.

Further, the police unearthed that Shaikh was once stopped in Mahim by a traffic police officer for jumping a signal. The 23-year-old had told the traffic police officer that he had forgotten his license at home and left the place under the guise of fetching the license but never returned. The accused had also robbed several driving licenses from other people and used to show the same to the traffic police officers when he was stopped, the officer said.

The police have also seized several mobile phones from the accused.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The Gautam Budh Nagar police arrested a 30-year-old man on Thursday for allegedly molesting his 13-year-old niece at their residence in Noidas Sector 22, police said. The incident came to light when the minor girl confided in one of her teachers at school, revealing that she had been subjected to inappropriate touching by her uncle in their home. (Representative Image)

The incident came to light when the minor girl confided in one of her teachers at school, revealing that she had been subjected to inappropriate touching by her uncle in their home.

Police said that the girl was molested by her uncle on multiple occasions over a long time.

At school, she confided in her teacher saying that at her home, her uncle touched her inappropriately, after which her teacher called the police. The childs counselling was done by the Women Safety Unit of Noida Police following which she narrated her ordeal. Her father was then called in to submit a complaint in the matter, said assistant commissioner of police-2, Noida Sushil Kumar Ganga Prasad.

An FIR was registered under Section 354 (outraging modesty of woman) of the Indian Penal Code and relevant sections of the POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act.

The suspect was arrested on Thursday and sent to judicial custody after being produced before a magistrate, he added.

Meanwhile, in another incident, a 23-year-old woman filed a complaint at Sector 39 police station, alleging that she was molested by her 40-year-old uncle at his residence in Challera village on Wednesday.

Police said that an FIR was registered under Section 354 (outraging modesty of woman) of the Indian Penal Code against the suspect on Thursday.

The woman, who is married and a resident of Delhi, was visiting her paternal aunts house in the village. On Thursday, she submitted a complaint stating that on Wednesday night, while she was sleeping, she was touched inappropriately by her paternal aunts husband Om Prakash, said Rajneesh Verma, assistant commissioner of police-1, Noida.

The ACP added that the suspect is currently on the run, and police teams have been deployed to nab him.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
VARANASI The fourth and final meeting of the G20 Sustainable Finance Working Group, held under Indias G20 presidency, concluded in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, on Thursday with the finalisation of the 2023 G20 Sustainable Finance Report. The two-day meeting was deemed highly successful. The two-day meeting was deemed highly successful. (HT Photo)

The two-day meeting witnessed proactive engagement from over 80 delegates from G20 member countries, invitee countries, and international organisations, including the World Bank, New Development Bank, and NGFS, among others. Many other organisations joined the meeting virtually, according to Prashant Kakkar, PIBs media and communication officer.

The two-day meeting in Varanasi aimed to jointly agree on the final 2023 G20 Sustainable Finance Report, which synthesises the work carried out by the SFWG in the form of recommendations for the identified priority areas. The fourth meeting also discussed the progress made by G20 members and international organisations (IOs) on the G20 Sustainable Finance Roadmap, Kakkar explained.

Achieving sustainable development requires collective efforts from all member countries. Throughout the SFWG meetings, both the Co-Chairs (the US and China), members, invitee countries, and international organisations actively participated and contributed to the finalisation of deliverables as key outcomes under the SFWG this year.

The success of the G20 Sustainable Finance Working Groups endeavours stands as a testimony to the collective will and determination of the G20 nations to jointly address global challenges. As Indias G20 Presidency draws to a close, the legacy of this fruitful collaboration will continue to inspire and guide global efforts focused on healing our One Earth, creating harmony within our One Family, and giving hope for our One Future. The four Sustainable Finance Working Group (SFWG) meetings were held in Guwahati, Udaipur, Mahabalipuram, and Varanasi.

The G20 Sustainable Finance Working Group (SFWG) aims to mobilise sustainable finance to help ensure global growth and stability and promote the transition towards greener, more resilient, and inclusive societies and economies. The main purpose of the Group is to advance international work to help scale up private and public sustainable finance and, in doing so, accelerate the implementation of the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The G20 Sustainable Finance Roadmap, as finalised in 2021, is the core framework guiding the SFWGs functions and future work.

Guided by the principle of One Earth, One Family, One Future and in line with our ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, SFWG during Indias G20 Presidency has worked to further global good and create a better planet. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stated, it is our collective responsibility not to let progress toward Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) fall behind and to ensure that no one is left behind.

Towards this end, in 2023, the SFWG carried out work to enable finance for SDGs, along with the mobilisation of timely and adequate resources for climate finance as agenda priorities.

During Indias G20 presidency, the SFWG made recommendations in six areas: (1) Mechanisms for Mobilization of Timely and Adequate Resources for Climate Finance; (2) Policy Measures and Financial Instruments for Catalysing the Rapid Development and Deployment of Green and Low-Carbon Technologies; (3) Scaling up the adoption of social impact investment instruments; (4) Improving Nature-related Data and Reporting; (5) G20 Technical Assistance Action Plan; (6) Overcoming data-related barriers to climate investments.

In addition, the members finalised a compendium of case studies on financing SDGs and a compendium on non-price policy levers to support sustainable investments, Kakkar added. The G20 New Delhi Leaders Declaration 2023, adopted in the Leaders Summit held recently, has welcomed the work undertaken by the SFWG under Indias G20 presidency.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The Kerala government is waiting for results of 11 samples which were sent to NIV Pune for testing for the deadly Nipah virus, officials said on Thursday, even as three central teams are visiting the virus-affected panchayats in Kozhikode district. The brain-damaging virus has killed two people and infected three others in Kozhikode district. (AFP photo)

In wake of the virus outbreak, the state government has closed all educational institutions in northern Kerala district on Thursday and Friday, Kozhikode district collector A Geetha announced on Facebook post, adding that the classes will be conducted online.

However, there will be no change in the university exams schedule, she added.

A 24-year old health worker became Keralas fifth confirmed Nipah case on Wednesday ever since the outbreak.

We are expecting results of 11 samples sent to NIV, Pune for testing by this evening. The samples were taken from persons who have shown signs of Nipah, said a state government official.

He added that 13 patients with mild symptoms are being monitored in the district hospital, and only a 9-year-old child is in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Officials said that monoclonal antibodies have been ordered from Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to treat the child.

A team from the health ministry, NIV, Pune and National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are also visiting the affected panchayats to ascertain reasons for Nipah outbreak, officials said.

The virus strain seen in the state was the Bangladesh variant which spreads from human to human and has a high mortality rate, though it is less infectious, the government said.

The condition of all 76 people who are in the high-risk contact category remains stable, state health minister Veena George had said.

Also Read: Health worker tests Nipah positive in Kerala, confirmed cases tally at 5

The government has also set up a control room in Wayanad following the outbreak in Kozhikode.

The Wayanad district administration also constituted 15 core committees to lead the prevention and surveillance activities and effectively deal with emergency situations.

A review meeting chaired by chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan was also held on Wednesday.

After the meeting, state health minister Veena George had said all the possible prevention measures are in place and there is no need to panic.

The minister had also said the World Health Organisation (WHO) and ICMR studies found out that the entire state of Kerala is prone to getting such infections, not just Kozhikode.

Four more wards - three in Villyapally panchayat and one in Purameri panchayat- in Kozhikode district were declared as containment zones on Wednesday in addition to those announced on Tuesday.

The Kozhikode administration had on Tuesday declared seven village panchayats namely Atanchery, Maruthonkara, Tiruvallur, Kuttiyadi, Kayakkodi, Villyapalli, and Kavilumpara as containment zones.

(With PTI inputs)

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
A court in Rajasthans Deeg district on Thursday sent Mohit Yadav, also known as Monu Manesar, to 15-day judicial custody in connection with the Bhiwani double murder case in which two Muslim men were lynched to death, officials aware of the matter said. Monu Manesar is currently lodged in Mathura Gate police station in Bharatpur city (File Photo)

Read here: Monu Manesar on 2-day police remand for interrogation

Two Muslim men  Junaid, 35, and Nasir, 25  were allegedly abducted, assaulted, killed and their bodies burned by alleged cow protection gangs on February 16, their charred bodies were found in a car in Haryanas Bhiwani district.

Manesar, a cow vigilante and Bajrang Dal functionary was booked by the Rajasthan Police in connection with the murder of Nasir and Junaid and accused by some of inciting the violence in Haryanas Nuh.

He was arrested by the Haryana Police on Tuesday, ending an eight-month-long hunt.

According to the police, four accused  Monu Rana, Rinku Saini, Gogi and Monu Manesar  have been arrested in the case and 26 others are suspected to be involved.

Brijesh Jyoti Upadhyay, Deeg superintendent of police (SP) said Manesar who had travelled to Thailand, returned to Haryana two months and was arrested on September 12.

Manesar was part of the conspiracy but was not directly involved in murdering them. However, the details regarding when and how they plotted it, cannot be disclosed now, added the SP.

A police official on the condition of anonymity said that during his two-day interrogation, Manesar revealed that he was in touch with Saini and the duo had spoken on the phone before and after the abduction of Nasir and Junaid.

The Deeg police took him on a production warrant from Haryana on September 12 and arrested him under sections 302, 368, 201, 147,148, 149, 435, 364, 365 387, 388 and 120 B of the Indian Penal Code in connection with Bhiwani double murder case.

Speaking to Hindustan Times over the phone on August 2, Manesar said that he will show full cooperation and believes Rajasthan police to clear cut investigation into the Bhiwani double murder case. I had already shared my video through social media platforms that I was not involved in the Bhiwani murders, Manesar had said.

Meanwhile, the family members of Junaid and Nasir, natives of village Ghatmika in Deeg district, have demanded death penalty for Manesar.

Junaids wife Sajida said strict punishment should be given to Manesar as they burnt alive her husband. I have six children and facing financial problems to feed them after my husbands death. I fully believe Rajasthan police but Manesar should be hanged, Sajida said.

Read here: Post on social media enabled case against cow vigilante Monu Manesar: Haryana Police

Nasirs wife Barfirna said: I am feeding two kids, who were adopted by my husband. I thank Rajasthan police for arresting Manesar, but all other absconded accused should be arrested.

Manesar has currently been kept in Mathura Gate police station in Bharatpur city while the police complaint was registered against him along with four others in Gopalgarh police station in Mewat region of Deeg district.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
The Agra Zone police and Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTS) arrested four residents of Barabanki and recovered 50 kg of Charas (cannabis) from them. The confiscated contraband has a worth of 3 crore in the international market. A car and four mobile phones were also recovered from them. The arrested accused in police custody (HT Photo)

This consignment was being brought from Nepal and had been carried through Bihar to be sold in U.P, Haryana, Punjab and Delhi.

A press note issued by the Mathura police read, The ATNS headquarter in Lucknow gave clues about movement of these accused and four including Noor Ahmed, 42, Abid, 22, Noor Alam, 32 and Mohd Shahid, 32, all residents of Barabanki district of Uttar Pradesh were arrested by team lead by deputy superintendent of police for operational unit of ATNS in Agra Irfan Nasir Khan.

These arrests were made on Wednesday evening from Mant Toll Plaza of Yamuna Expressway connecting Agra with NOIDA.

A case was registered under section 8/21(c)/29/60 NDPS Act 1985 and Section 420 of Indian Penal Code. Those arrested revealed that they used to get the Charas from Nepal through Bihar and used to sell it in states of UP, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and Delhi. They had a criminal past and search continues to nab the kingpin believed to be from Champaran in Bihar, police sources said.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Nagaland assembly on Thursday passed a resolution on the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act 2023 which will only be applicable to Nagaland subject to the constitutional guarantees provided in Article 371A of the Constitution of India. The resolution will only be applicable to Nagaland subject to the constitutional guarantees provided in Article 371A. (Representative file image)

Nagaland is the second state assembly after Mizoram to pass a resolution against the amendments made in the Forest Conservation Act during monsoon session of Parliament citing provisions of the Article 371A, which provides special protection to tribal and local customs of Nagaland.

Article 371A grants special provisions to the state of Nagaland, stating that, notwithstanding anything in this Constitution, no Act of Parliament in respect of the religious or social practices of the Nagas, Naga customary law and procedures and administration of civil and criminal justice involving decisions according to Naga customary laws, and ownership and transfer of land and its resources shall apply to the state of Nagaland unless the Legislative Assembly of Nagaland by a resolution so decides.

The Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act 2023, which was enacted by Parliament and notified by the Government of India on August 4 deals with land and its resources (forests).

Also Read: Centre releases fact sheet to promote agroforestry

After thoroughly deliberating the matter in the ongoing monsoon session, the state assembly resolved that, Whereas the amended Act has inserted a new Section, namely, Section 1(A)(2) which exempted from the operation of the principal Act such forest lands situated within a distance of 100 km along international borders, Line of Control or Actual Line of Control as the case may be, proposed to be used for construction of strategic linear project of national importance and concerning national security; And whereas the above exempted area of 100 kilometres from international borders will cover most parts of Nagaland State; And whereas in Nagaland the ownership of most of the forest lands vests with tribal communities.

Citing the concerns raised by Naga tribal bodies, stakeholders and their strong objection to the application of Section 1(A)(2) of the Act in Nagaland on the ground that it would infringe on traditional ownership and usage of forest lands and its resources in the state, the 60-member assembly also expressed its view that the term land and its resources mentioned in Article 371A include forest lands and its resources, and the application of Section 1(A)(2) of the amended Act to Nagaland would jeopardise the existing rights of tribal communities on their forest lands and its resources.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
LUCKNOW Two cousins, including a minor, lost their lives when they drowned in a pond while searching for their pair of buffaloes that had been taken out to graze in a field. The incident took place in the village of Bhatan Kheda, located in the Mohanlalganj area of Lucknow. Representative pic (PTI)

According to family members, Avaresh (35) and his cousin Shanuj (14) had left their home on Wednesday evening in search of their buffaloes. As they remained unaccounted for, family members initiated a search in the surrounding area, but unfortunately, their efforts yielded no results.

On Thursday morning, family members reached the ponds bank and discovered some of the belongings of the two cousins. Consequently, they promptly notified the local police. Avareshs body was recovered shortly thereafter, followed by the recovery of the minors body with the assistance of divers. Both bodies were subsequently sent for post-mortem examination, said Santosh Kumar Arya, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Mohanlalganj Police Station.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A 17-year-old student studying in class 10 died by suicide at his home in Bihars Jamui district on Thursday, police said. The deceased was a student in a government school in Bariyarpur village. (Representative file image)

The boy, who was going to appear for the Bihar Board Examination next year, was found dead inside his house, police added.

The deceased was a student in a government school in Bariyarpur village.

The mother was being administered medicine as she was ill and the father was looking after her when the boy died by suicide, said a close relative of the family.

The body was sent to the primary health centre where he was declared dead by the doctors.

Also Read:16-year-old NEET student dies by suicide in Rajasthans Kota, 24th case this year

The body has been sent to Jamui district hospital for postmortem, assistant police inspector (ASI) Nityanand Singh said adding that The incident is being probed.

He however said that prima facie it appears to be case of suicide.

This is the second such incident that took place in Bihar in a matter of two days.

On Wednesday morning, an 18-year-old first-year student at Polytechnic College allegedly died by suicide inside her college hostel.

If you need support or know someone who does, please reach out to your nearest mental health specialist.

Helplines: Aasra: 022-2754 6669;

Sneha India Foundation: +914424640050 and Sanjivini: 011-24311918,

Roshni Foundation (Secunderabad) Contact Nos:

040-66202001, 040-66202000,

ONE LIFE: Contact No: 78930 78930, SEVA: Contact number: 09441778290

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) will be holding a Festival of Democracy at Bihars Nalanda University exhibiting Indias rich democratic traditions. Indian Council for Cultural Relations (Twitter/@iccr_hq)

The festival  Vaishali Festival of Democracy, will be held on Friday (September 15), which is also the International Day of Democracy.

Nalanda University acting vice-chancellor (VC) Abhay Singh said that the ICCR chose the university as the venue due to its great significance for Bihar, the democratic ethos of the country, and the presence of an international audience.

September 15 is celebrated the world over as the International Day of Democracy. Vaishali in Bihar is the place where the roots of democracy are traced. The ICCR, which is an autonomous body under the administrative control of the ministry of external affairs, chose Nalanda University as the venue for the event comprising panel discussions and cultural exchange to take the discourse on a global stage, said the VC.

Singh, who took over the charge from former VC Sunaina Singh, said that ambassadors from five countries, including Chili, Egypt, Argentina and Nepal, will also attend the festival, besides dignitaries.

We are gradually expanding our collaboration with foreign countries. We dont have collaboration with Argentina and Egypt, but we will explore new opportunities during our interaction with them. We already have collaboration with countries like Indonesia, Bangladesh, South Korea, Japan, Laos etc. We have around 80% of the students on the campus from different foreign countries, he added.

According to the people familiar with the event, former President Ram Nath Kovind, Bihar Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, minister of state for culture Meenakshi Lekhi, ICCR chief Dr Vinay Sahasrabuddhe and ambassadors/high commissioners from several countries will be among the prominent guests at the festival.

The Union government had organised an exhibition titled Bharat: Mother of Democracy aimed at highlighting the democratic ethos of India as part of side events of the G20 Summit in New Delhi.

The VC said that Nalanda University was a matter of pride not just for Bihar, but the whole of India.

The ambassadors will have an overnight stay to see the ancient seat of learning, Nalanda Mahavira, which formed the backdrop at the G20 Summit. Bihars fertile land has always been a source of knowledge and strength for mankind, added Singh.

This years theme for the International Day of Democracy is Empowering the Next Generation to focus on young peoples essential role in advancing democracy and ensuring that their voices are included in the decisions that have a profound impact on their world.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Arun Kumar Arun Kumar is Senior Assistant Editor with Hindustan Times. He has spent two-and-half decades covering Bihar, including politics, educational and social issues. ...view detail
Former President Ram Nath Kovind will attend the Vaishali Festival of Democracy at the Nalanda University (NU) on Friday (September 15), which is also the International Day of Democracy. Bihar Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar welcomes former President Ramnath Kovind at Raj Bhawan in Patna on Thursday. (HT photo)

Bihar Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, union minister of state for culture Meenakshi Lekhi, ICCR president Dr Vinay Sahasrabuddhe and ambassadors/ high commissioners from several countries will be among the prominent guests at the festival, NU acting vice chancellor Abhay Singh said.

The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) chose the university as the venue due to its great significance for Bihar, he said.

September 15 is celebrated the world over as the International Day of Democracy. Vaishali in Bihar is the place where the roots of democracy is traced. The ICCR, which is an autonomous body under the administrative control of ministry of external affairs, chose NU as the venue for the event comprising panel discussions and cultural exchange to take the discourse on global stage, said the VC.

Singh, who took over the charge from former VC Sunaina Singh, said ambassadors from five countries, including Chili, Egypt, Argentina and Nepal, will also attend the festival, besides other dignitaries.

We are gradually expanding our collaboration with foreign countries. We dont have collaboration with Argentina and Egypt, but we will explore new opportunities during our interaction with them. We already have collaboration with countries like Indonesia, Bangladesh, South Korea, Japan, Laos etc. Around 80% of our students in the campus are from foreign countries, he added.

This years theme for the International Day of Democracy is Empowering the next generation to focus on young peoples essential role in advancing democracy and ensuring that their voices are included in the decisions that have a profound impact on their world.

The VC said that NU was a matter of pride not just for Bihar, but the whole of India. The ambassadors will have overnight stay to see the ancient seat of learning, Nalanda Mahavira, which formed the backdrop at the G-20 summit. Bihars fertile land has always been source of knowledge and strength for mankind, he said.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Arun Kumar Arun Kumar is Senior Assistant Editor with Hindustan Times. He has spent two-and-half decades covering Bihar, including politics, educational and social issues. ...view detail
PATNA: Govinder Sahani, in his early 20s, is inconsolable. On Thursday morning, he had seen off his brother, 17-year-old Pintu, to school. A few hours later, he was busy looking for his body. ((X/@manishA20058305/Screengrab))

Pintu is among the 12 people, including six girl students, who are still missing after a small boat capsized in the swollen Bagmati river in Muzaffarpur district of Bihar Thursday morning.

At least 18 people swam to safety, the district administration said.

As of late on Thursday evening, 12 persons including children were missing.

Pintu saved two persons, but when he again went in to the river to pull others (out), he was swept (away) by the strong current. The boat had students of class nine and 10 and some local people from Bhatgama village who were going to buy things to Benibad (village) across the river, Sahani said.

The tragedy was waiting to happen, locals said, because of the risk involved in operating rickety boats across the Bagmati river, which originates in Nepal, near the stretch where the boat sank on Thursday.

At any given time,operating boats on that stretch of the river is risky given the way it is done: A rope is tied at both banks of the river, 50 metres wide, and boats are then pulled along with the rope by people who want to cross.

On Thursday, the rope broke.

For the villagers of Bhatgama, the latest tragedy revived memories of the 2002 boat mishap when five members of a family similarly drowned.

Bhatgama village, with a population of nearly 2,000, relies for its daily needs on Benibad village, which falls under the Gaighat assembly seat of Muzaffarpur district and is located 40 kms from Muzaffarpur town.

Angry locals blamed Thursdays mishap on the absence of a bridge on Bagmati river.

The mishap was waiting to happen. Population is dense on both sides of the river but they (politicians) come only at the time of elections. We have been demanding the bridge for the last 20-22 years, said Madhusudan Mahto and Chimniya Devi, residents of Bhatgama village.

Shakuntala Singh, another local, said children from Bhatgama village go to school by crossing the river by boat as thats the only option available in the neighbourhood.

The risk increases when the river is in spate during the monsoons.

When it rains, the river is in spate and plying boats is not easy. It becomes more difficult if it is packed (with people). Everyone knows it (the difficulties) but now the government will announce compensation and forget (the accident), he said.

The only school nearby, the Balaur high school, is on the other side of river. Though there is a bridge 1.5 km away from the site of the accident, crossing by boat saves time, said a villager, asking not to be named.

The Gayghat MLA, Niranjan Roy of the RJD, who visited the site of the accident, said a bridge over Bagmati has been an old demand of the people and he had raised it several times.

Gayghat constituency has three-four rivers. There is a bridge some distance away, but people avoid it to save time. It is an unfortunate incident, he said.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Avinash Kumar Avinash, a senior correspondent, reports on crime, railways, defence and social sector, with specialisation in police, home department and other investigation agencies. ...view detail
At least 12 people, among them six school girls, were still missing after the countrymade boat they were sailing on across the swollen Bagmati river in Bihars Muzaffarpur district capsized Thursday morning near Madhurpatti ghat, barely 1.5 kilometres away from the bridge on the river, locals and officials said. At the accident site on Bagmati river. (HT photo)

According to an official, the boat was carrying over 30 people, many of whom were students headed for their school across the river, of which 18 were rescued by locals.

The tragedy incidentally struck on a day when chief minister Nitish Kumar was in Muzaffarpur to review the progress of ongoing projects in the district.

Rescue operation is underway I have asked the district magistrate to look into the matter with urgency. The state government will provide all assistance to the affected families, Kumar told reporters in Muzaffarpur.

District magistrate (DM) Pranav Kumar said, We have also deployed divers from neighbouring districts. Personnel of the National Disaster Response Force and the State Disaster Response Force have been engaged in the rescue operation as well.

Jairam Kumar, an eyewitness, said the mishap took place around 9.45am when some women and school children from Bhatgama village were crossing the river on the countrymade boat. Most of the school children, aged between 15 and 16 years, were on way to attend their classes at Balaur upgraded high school across the river.

Another local, Ram Babu Ray, told HT that NDRF and SDRF teams arrived at the spot after three hours of the incident.

The DM, however, said the incident took place around 10.30-11am. Teams of NDRF and SDRF were rushed to the accident site soon after, he said.

NDRF deputy commandant (operations) of 9th battalion, Randhir Singh, said that around 11am, the NDRF control room received a message about the accident. A team comprising 20 divers rushed to the spot and started search operations, but they could not find the bodies till sunset. The search will continue on Friday, he said.

Deputy superintendent of police (Muzaffarpur East) Shahriyar Akhtar said the countrymade boat was overloaded and was crossing the river with the help of a rope which snapped, overturning the boat.

One of the rescued students, Nikhat Praveen, told reporters that she could not remember how she was rescued but admitted several of her friends were missing.

Meanwhile, state BJP president Samrat Choudhary blamed CM Nitish Kumar for the poor state of schools and lack of proper infrastructure despite being in power for 18 years. Children are unable to go to school even if they want to, he told reporters in Patna.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Avinash Kumar Avinash, a senior correspondent, reports on crime, railways, defence and social sector, with specialisation in police, home department and other investigation agencies. ...view detail
Jehangir hospital in Pune has launched organ donation initiative under the Digital Health mission Maha-Ayudaan by the government of Maharashtra. Jehangir hospital in Pune has launched organ donation initiative (REPRESENTATIVE IMAGE)

Hospitals advanced transplant centre is providing individuals with the opportunity to register for organ donation until June 19, 2024. Under the programme, crucial support will be offered to individuals who are encountering challenges in securing suitable donors for transplantation due to the lengthy waiting list. during the transplantation process.

The hospital has invited individuals to engage in organ donation procedures through an online registration.

Within our state-of-the-art Advanced Transplant Centre, our emphasis on guided protocols and innovative technologies ensures that patients receive transplants using the most optimal procedures. This collective effort, coupled with the active enrollment of individuals, is poised to create a substantial and extensive influence. said Dr Parimal Lawate, Gastroenterologist/Director Department Gastro science Jehangir Hospital.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
The Yerawada police officials have arrested a couple belonging to a nomadic tribe for allegedly buying a toddler from their relative and then making her beg. The girl was under two years of age when she was allegedly sold for 2,000 and she is now four years-old, said officials on Thursday. Pune police arrested a couple belonging to nomadic tribe for allegedly buying a toddler from their relative for  2,000 and making the minor beg. ((PIC FOR REPRESENTATION))

Advocate Shubham Lokhande (26), a resident of Vaiduwadi in Hadapsar has lodged a complaint in this regard on Wednesday.

Lokhande in his complaint stated that he received this information through a friend. After conducting inquiries, Lokhande learned that the girl is the sixth daughter of her parents. They were unable to look after her. Hence, they gave her to a married couple just for 2,000 and signed a notary agreement stating that they are adopting her. The toddler was taken to Supa hamlet in Baramati.

Senior police inspector Balkrishna Kadam attached to Yerawada police station said, The couple arrested in this case and the girls parents know each other very well. The accused claimed that they had adopted the girl from parents and they were taking care of her. The notary document has been recovered. The probe will be widened to find if there is any organised crime group behind the illegality and whether the girl was forced into begging.

The accused have been identified as Anil Jadhav, Laxmi Jadhav and Laxman Nimbalkar. The police booked the arrested couple, the girls parents and 11 others, including the panch of their community, under sections 363A, 370 (human trafficking), 34 of Indian Penal Code, and provisions of Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act and Maharashtra Prevention of Begging Rules.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Actor Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor recently defended his remarks after being slammed for urging people not to wear fake sneakers. Now, he has responded to a person on X (formerly Twitter), who told the actor that they will 'still not buy his brother-in-laws shoes'. Harsh Varrdhan's sister, actor Sonam Kapoor, is married to entrepreneur Anand Ahuja, founder of VegNonVeg, a multi-brand sneakers store. Also read: Internet roasts Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor as he tells people not to wear fake sneakers Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor says he 'couldnt care less about' brother-in-law Anand Ahuja's shoe store.

Harsh Varrdhan couldnt care less about Anand's store

Recently, many on X did not react kindly to Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor's advice to stay away from wearing knock-off sneakers. The actor's comment backfired as some called it 'elitist'.

Harsh Vardhan Kapoor responded to a tweet about brother-in-law Anand Ahuja's shoe store.

One of them also tweeted, "Bruh (brother) we are still not buying your brother-in-laws shoes (sneakers from Anand Ahuja's store)." In response, the actor tweeted, "I couldnt care less about that tbh (to be honest)."

The person was reacting to Harsh Varrdhan's earlier tweet, which read, I know every time I say something there will be people on social media, who dont know anything about footwear etc. going crazy but a lot of my followers are (sneakers emoji) enthusiasts or are looking to collect and thats the audience Im speaking to.

Harsh Varrdhan's remarks about fake sneakers

The actor, who was last seen in the Netflix film Thar, faced backlash after he wrote on Instagram Stories, "Don't know who needs to hear this, but please stop wearing fake sneakers... if you have a low/moderate budget there's plenty of great options out there. Converse vans basic air force etc... if someone gets you a gift and they happen to be inauthentic you can pass them onto someone else that doesn't know what they are and would be happy to wear... but if you are buying your own please do your own diligence... buy from trusted sellers"

He had added, "Also really hope more men/boys look into how they dress and invest well in what they wear.. again doesn't have to be expensive tons and tons of cheap options out there.. but no point wearing a really expensive pair of shoes if you don't know how to put the rest of it together tbh... It's supposed to say something about you... your tastes and preferences"

His remark was shared by a person on X, who tweeted along with it, "Friends can you like stop being poor and buy some money??!" Soon after, many on X, called the actor 'elitist' and 'out of touch with reality' for his comment about sneakers.

Reacting to it, the actor had tweeted, "When I put this out I already knew people who dont know people would come after me etc but the truth is Ive been doing this for a long time and reps of hyped shoes are more expensive than say a pair of converse old skool vans or used air forces etc."

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Hours after it was reported that Aamir Khan's daughter Ira Khan will get married to her fiance Nupur Shikhare next month, the star kid has denied the claim. She took to Instagram Stories on Thursday and said in a now-deleted note alongside a photo of the news report, No no Not getting married on 3rd October! Later, youll know when because Ill be so excited that it will be hard to not notice..." Also read: Ira Khan, daughter of actor Aamir Khan, gets candid about her battle with depression, and growing up in the public eye Ira Khan with Nupur Shikhare. Ira is the daughter of Aamir Khan and Reena Dutt, his first wife.

What the report claimed about Ira's wedding

Ira Khan was reacting to a story published by Bombay Times, which quoted a source as saying, The couple (Ira and Nupur) has planned an elaborate wedding ceremony in Udaipur. Its a three-day affair, and the festivities will include their friends and extended family, members. This one, too, will be an intimate affair minus the presence of any people from the film industry... the father of the bride (Aamir Khan) is extremely excited and is closely involved with the planning.

Aamir Khan's daughter Ira Khan refutes wedding rumours.

Ira and Nupur's relationship

Ira Khan and Nupur Shikhare got engaged in November 2022. The ceremony was attended by Aamir Khan, Reena Dutta and Aamir's ex Kiran Rao, his second wife, among others. Aamir's nephew, actor Imran Khan, had also attended the bash. Nupur Shikhare had shared pictures from their engagement ceremony, one of which featured him going down on one knee proposing to Ira again, as she got emotional.

Nupur, a celebrity fitness trainer, had proposed to Ira Khan a few months prior in Italy. The two, who had been dating for a while then, had shared the video from their proposal on their respective Instagram handles.

About Ira Khan

Aamir Khan and ex-wife Reena Datta welcomed their daughter Ira Khan in 1997. In 2019, Ira had made her directorial debut with a theatre production, which featured actor Hazel Keech in the lead role. It was called Medea, an Indian adaptation of Euripides' Greek play of the same name. Aamir and Reena also have a son, Junaid Khan, who is reportedly soon set to make his acting debut in films.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Nana Patekar on Naseeruddin Shah's remark

As per ETimes, Nana has said, "Did you ask Naseer (Naseeruddin Shah) what nationalism means to him? According to me, showing love for the nation is nationalism and it is not a bad thing... The kind of film Gadar is, it will have that kind of content. I have not seen The Kerala Story, so I cannot comment on that."

What Naseeruddin Shah had said

In a recent interview with Free Press Journal, Naseeruddin Shah had opened up about the kind of films being made in Bollywood now. He had said, "Now the more jingoist you are the more popular you become because this is what has been ruling this country. Its not enough to love your country but beat drums about it and you have to create imaginary enemies. What these people dont realise is that what they are doing is very harmful."

He had added, "In fact, films like The Kerala Story and Gadar 2, I havent seen them but I know what they are about, its disturbing that films like Kashmir Files are so massively popular whereas films made by Sudhir Mishra, Anubhav Sinha, and Hansal Mehta, who are trying to portray the truth of their times dont get seen. But its important that these filmmakers dont lose heart and continue telling stories."

Anil Sharma says Naseeruddin should watch Gadar 2

Anil Sharma has also responded to Naseeruddin Shah statement and urged the veteran actor to watch Gadar 2 first. He told Aaj Tak, "I am a fan of his acting. If he has made those statements, I would like to request him to watch my film, he will certainly change his opinion. Naseer saab (Naseeruddin Shah) knows pretty well that I have always made films for the sake of the masala, and never (has) political agenda (been a part of my films)."

About Gadar 2 and The Kerala Story

Gadar 2 is a sequel to the hit film Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, which was released in 2001. In the film, Sunny Deol played the role of Tara Singh, a truck driver, while Ameesha Patel played Sakeena. It was set during the partition of India in 1947.

Gadar 2 follows Tara Singh as he ventures across the border in a daring attempt to rescue his son Charanjeet Singh, portrayed by Utkarsh Sharma, who has been captured in Pakistan. Released on August 11, Gadar 2 has collected 516.43 crore nett in India, as per a report by Sacnilk.com.

Written and directed by Sudipto Sen, The Kerala Story was released in May and stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani and Sonia Balani in lead roles. The controversy around The Kerala Story started after the release of its trailer. It had claimed that over 32000 women from Kerala were forced to convert to Islam and were recruited by the terror group ISIS.

Later, after backlash from politicians and others, the figure was omitted from the trailer and the description mentioned it as the story of three women from Kerala. The film earned 241.74 crore nett in India, as per a report by Sacnilk.com.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Veteran actor Rio Kapadia has died at the age of 66. The actor who is known for his work in Chak De India, Dil Chahta Hai and Mardaani died on September 14. The news of his death was confirmed by his friend Faisal Malik to India Today. He is survived by his wife, Maria Farah, kids Aman and Veer. (Also read: Guneet Monga on initial struggle to get The Lunchbox released: 'Didnt have money to book Irrfan Khan's room at Cannes') Bollywood actor Rio Kapadia had died.

More details

The cremation ceremony of actor Rio Kapadia will take place on September 15 at Shiv Dham Shamshan Bhumi in Goregaon. The cause of Rio's death is yet to be revealed. Many are seen paying tribute to Rio through social media.

Apart from films, the late actor was also seen in the television show Sapne Suhane Ladakpan Ke. He played the role of Gandhari's Father, King Subala of Gandhara in Siddharth Tewary's Mahabharat.

Rio had spoken about actor's rights in the Television industry and urged other actors to show support for one another. In 2012, when he was replaced by another actor for a prominent part in a show, he had spoken up about the issues that actors face in the industry.

In an interview with Telly Chakkar, Rio had said, "I belong to no such group; I have grown up in a different way and have certain values in life. This is a very bad situation for any actor to be in, and many of them have faced this in the industry When you see the shows made abroad, they prepare the entire script of a particular serial and submit it. Only when the whole story gets approved, the show is aired.

But here, one particular concept goes to the channel, and nobody knows what is going to be written by the writer in the episodes to come. Our audience needs their daily dose of drama and to provide that, the scripts get modified day in and day out. This is the reason why not many of our new shows exists for a time span of more than two months. Gone are the days when shows used to run for a year to two years to a maximum of five to ten years."

He was last seen in one of the episodes of the Prime Video series Made in Heaven Season 2.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT Entertainment Desk Dedicated professionals who write about cinema and television in all their vibrancy. Expect views, reviews and news. ...view detail
Good news?

Asked if any family member pressurised them for 'good news', Vicky said, "Koi bhi nahi daal raha. Vaise bade cool hain. (No one. They are cool people)." He also admitted that he is part of a group called 'rocking family' which is daily flooded with typically emotional messages about the sacrifices of moms and dads. During the interview, Vicky also said that his family is his life, and everything for him.

He also insisted, "The first ones to know I was dating Katrina Kaif, were my mother and father. Aise to din nahi aaye ke Viral (Bhayani) se pata lage, maine bataya (I told them, the situation isn't that bad that they get to know about it from the paparazzi)."

Vicky and Katrina

After months of rumours about their dating lives, Vicky and Katrina surprised everyone in 2021 with a private marriage ceremony in Rajasthan. The actors never acknowledged the rumours nor did they confirm their relationship until the wedding. They announced their marriage by sharing pictures from the ceremony on the Instagram pages. Last year, many reports claimed that Katrina was pregnant, but the couple later issued a statement quashing the reports and labelling them as false.

Vicky's new films

Vicky will soon be seen in The Great Indian Family alongside Manushi Chillar. Directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya, the film will release in theatres on September 22. He also has Meghna Gulzar's Sam Bahadur in the pipeline. He plays the titular role in the film that is based on the real-life story of the Indian war hero, India's first Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw. He will also be seen in Anand Tiwaris next film along with Tripti Dimri and Ammy Virk.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Bill Maher, the comedian and political commentator, announced he will continue his show, Real Time with Bill Maher, on HBO despite the ongoing strikes in Hollywood. HBO's 'Real Time with Bill Maher'(Janet Van Ham / HBO)

Maher wrote in a post on X, the social media platform that replaced Twitter, that he will resume his show without his writers or writing.

It has been five months, and it is time to bring people back to work. The writers have important issues that I sympathize with, and hope they are addressed to their satisfaction, but they are not the only people with issues, problems, and concerns, he wrote.

The comedian said he hoped the strikes would end by Labor Day but noted there still seems to be nothing happening.

I love my writers, I am one of them, but Im not prepared to lose an entire year and see so many below-the-line people suffer so much, he wrote.

I will honor the spirit of the strike by not doing a monologue, desk piece, New Rules or editorial, the written pieces that I am so proud of on Real Time.

Maher said he will tell the audience upfront the show without his writers will not be as good as the normal show.

But the heart of the show is an off-the-cuff panel discussion that aims to cut through the bull**** and predictable partisanship, and that will continue. The show will not disappoint, he continued.

The strike by members of the 11,000-member Writers Guild of America (WGA) started in May after failed contract negotiations with the studio chiefs of the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.

The strike is the longest strike in WGA history and has halted TV and film productions in Hollywood for more than 100 days.

SAG-AFTRA, the largest union for Hollywood actors, joined the strike two months later in July after failing to reach an agreement with film studios. The first dual strike since 1960.

ALSO READ| Drake and SZA team up for a new single, dropping this Friday, September 15

Both unions are demanding better wages and working conditions as well as higher residual rates related to streaming.

Many late-night shows including NBCs Saturday Night Live, and ABCs Jimmy Kimmel Live remain out of production as a result.

A group of late-night TV hosts announced last month they would come together on a new podcast that seeks to financially boost staffers impacted by the writers strike.
Actor Vijay is back from US, where he was shooting for Leo with director Venkat Prabhu. Upon his return to India, the actor met his father SA Chandrasekhar at latter's home. (Also read: Actor Vijay files civil lawsuit against his parents, nine others) Vijay posed for a photo with his parents.

SAC is undergoing treatment at home after a surgery. Vijay inquired about his health and treatment details. His mother Shobha has been working to bring together Vijay and Chandrasekhar, who have been at loggerheads for the past few years.

Chandrasekhar was invited to the audio launch of Varisu. Apart from that, Vijay, who is laying the foundation for a new political movement, was criticized that 'he has abandoned his father who raised him'. can be found instantly on Hindustan Times Tamil website.

In 2021, Vijay had filed a lawsuit against his parents and nine others. As per the lawsuit, which was filed in a city court, Vijay has said that no one is allowed to use his name to organise public meetings and gatherings. Vijay filed a civil lawsuit against his own parents because his father recently revealed that his son is interested in politics. He then went ahead and even registered a party in Vijays name.

Chandrasekhar made his wife Shobha as the treasurer of the party while his relative Padmanabhan was named the party President. In a statement, Vijay clarified that he did not grant permission to start any party and filed a lawsuit against 11 people to restrain them from using his name.

Also last year, SA Chandrasekhar had slammed Beast director Nelson Dilipkumar. In an interview, Chandrasekhar shared his thoughts about Beast and what he thought went wrong with the movie. This is a film that was made solely relying on Vijays stardom. Young filmmakers deliver an excellent first film in terms of content, technology and making. They also somehow achieve good results with the second film. When they begin to get the projects of big superstars, these young filmmakers begin to think, now that we have dates of these heroes, we can make movies whichever way we want. They think he (the star) already has a huge fan following and his film will run successfully in theatres, so no need for a screenplay and things like that. And they make a movie with a few songs and fights, Chandrasekhar told Thanthi TV.

Vijay was last seen in Varisu. His next film will be Leo.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here! ott:10

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT Entertainment Desk Dedicated professionals who write about cinema and television in all their vibrancy. Expect views, reviews and news. ...view detail
The parties in the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) will focus on three key demands  seeking a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) on the Adani Group in the backdrop of the recent revelations of alleged stock manipulation; a debate on price rise; and a discussion on unemployment  among other issues in the upcoming special session of Parliament, according to people aware of the Oppositions plans. HT Image

Three Opposition leaders from different parties maintained that the bloc is bracing for last-minute agenda changes from the government, and added that only conducting government business for the five days of the session will not be acceptable.

Both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and the principal opposition party Congress have issued strong whips to their parliamentarians asking them to remain present on all five days.

The agenda of the special Parliament session has still not been announced, and I say this because in the list of business, they have written a very sinister line there saying this is not the exhaustive list of business. They will be up to dirty tricks, and they can add some business last minute, Trinamool Congress leader Derek OBrien said on Thursday.

On the first day, when the discussion on 75 years of Indian Parliament has been listed, the INDIA alliance parties are set to launch a frontal attack on the government on the lack of space for topics the Opposition wants addressed, a tendency to bypass standing committees and push bills in a hurry, and the Prime Ministers reluctance to address the two Houses on major issues.

We want debate on the current economic situation, especially on the price rise and unemployment. Congress parliamentary party chief Sonia Gandhi has already written to the Prime Minister on a number of issues that require discussion on the floor of the House, said a Congress leader.

The government plans to clear The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023 during the special session. The Opposition leaders, however, maintained that they will vehemently oppose it. If they try to push to bill on election commissioners, all INDIA parties will oppose it, said Congress leader Jairam Ramesh.

The government also wants to pass the Repealing and Amending Bill, the Post Office Bill, the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, and the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023.

On the morning of September 18, the Opposition parties are expected to meet to chalk out their joint strategy for the session. Different parties are expected to prioritize their pet issues but everyone is on board to seek debates on price rise and unemployment, said a third leader.

The INDIA bloc has also announced a rally in Bhopal in the first week of October on price rise and unemployment and on alleged corruption by the Union government.

On September 6, Congress Parliamentary Party chief Sonia Gandhi shot off a letter to the Prime to demand discussion on nine raging issues, including the Adani Group and the demand for a caste census in India.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Aditya L1 spacecraft, India's first space-based mission to study the Sun, during the early hours on Friday, underwent the fourth earth-bound manoeuvre successfully, ISRO said. Aditya-L1 Mission(ISRO)

"The fourth Earth-bound manoeuvre (EBN#4) is performed successfully. ISRO's ground stations at Mauritius, Bengaluru, SDSC-SHAR and Port Blair tracked the satellite during this operation, while a transportable terminal currently stationed in the Fiji islands for Aditya-L1 will support post-burn operations," the space agency said in a post on X, a platform formerly known as Twitter.

The new orbit attained is 256 km x 121973 km, it said: "The next manoeuvre Trans-Lagragean Point 1 Insertion (TL1I) -- a send-off from the Earth -- is scheduled for September 19, around 02:00 Hrs. IST."

Aditya-L1 is the first Indian space-based observatory to study the Sun from a halo orbit around the first Sun-Earth Lagrangian point (L1), which is located roughly 1.5 million km from the Earth.

The first, second and third earth-bound manoeuvre was successfully performed on September 3, 5 and 10 respectively.

The manoeuvres are being performed during the spacecraft's 16-day journey around the Earth during which the spacecraft will gain the necessary velocity for its further journey to L1.

With the completion of four earth-bound orbital manoeuvres, Aditya-L1 will next undergo a Trans-Lagrangian1 insertion manoeuvre, marking the beginning of its nearly 110-day trajectory to the destination around the L1 Lagrange point.

Upon arrival at the L1 point, another manoeuvre binds Aditya L1 to an orbit around L1, a balanced gravitational location between the Earth and the Sun.

The satellite spends its whole mission life orbiting around L1 in an irregularly shaped orbit in a plane roughly perpendicular to the line joining the Earth and the Sun.

ISRO's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C57) on September 2 successfully launched the Aditya-L1 spacecraft from the Second Launch Pad of Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota.

After a flight duration of 63 minutes and 20 seconds that day, the Aditya-L1 spacecraft was successfully injected into an elliptical orbit of 235x19500 km around the Earth.

According to ISRO, a spacecraft placed in the halo orbit around the L1 point has the major advantage of continuously viewing the Sun without any occultation /eclipses.

This will provide a greater advantage in observing solar activities and their effect on space weather in real-time.

Aditya-L1 carries seven scientific payloads indigenously developed by ISRO and national research laboratories, including the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in Bengaluru and the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune.

The payloads are to observe the photosphere, chromosphere and the outermost layers of the Sun (the corona) using electromagnetic particle and magnetic field detectors.

Using the special vantage point L1, four payloads directly view the Sun and the remaining three payloads carry out in-situ studies of particles and fields at the Lagrange point L1, thus providing important scientific studies of the propagatory effect of solar dynamics in the interplanetary medium.

The suits of Aditya L1 payloads are expected to provide the most crucial information to understand the problem of coronal heating, coronal mass ejection, pre-flare and flare activities and their characteristics, dynamics of space weather, and propagation of particles and fields.

According to scientists, there are five Lagrangian points (or parking areas) between the Earth and the Sun where a small object tends to stay if put there. The Lagrange Points are named after Italian-French mathematician Joseph-Louis Lagrange for his prize-winning paper -- "Essai sur le Probleme des Trois Corps, 1772."

These points in space can be used by spacecraft to remain there with reduced fuel consumption.

At a Lagrange point, the gravitational pull of the two large bodies (the Sun and the Earth) equals the necessary centripetal force required for a small object to move with them.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The ongoing encounter between security forces and suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists at Anantnag may have come as a setback in the run up to the panchayat and urban local body elections likely to be scheduled in October-November, vitiating the atmosphere for polls to the grassroots tier of government in Jammu and Kashmir, officials aware of the matter said, a day after two decorated army officers (including a commanding officer) and a deputy superintendent of police were killed in the gunfight. The army at the site of encounter at Gadole village in Kokernag district in Anantnag. (Waseem Andrabi)

This is the second major terror attack on security forces in south Kashmir in weeks; three soldiers of the 34 Rashtriya Rifles were killed in an ambush by terrorists in the Halan forest of Kulgam on August 4, triggering concerns about a possible deterioration in the security situation ahead of the process to elect grassroot leadership (around 30,000 representatives), the officials said, asking not to be named. The terrorists behind the Kulgam attack are still at large.

Some officials, however, were of the view that conducting the elections would not be a major challenge for the administration as polls have been held in J&K during peak terrorism in the past.

Both attacks took place at a time when calm was returning to the Valley and the upcoming polls were expected to be smooth, the officials said.

The two attacks are a chilling reminder that the threat of terrorism persists in Kashmir and the security forces need to keep their guard up, said one of the officials cited above.

In July, state election commissioner BR Sharma told reporters that panchayat polls in Jammu and Kashmir should be held in October-November this year as the term of the existing panchayat ends on January 9, 2024. He also said that exercises such as the revision of electoral rolls will be taken up shortly for the elections for around 33,700 elected panchayat seats, including around 4000 sarpanches or village chiefs. Since the effective abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the state in 2019, the region has held polls to the District Development Council.

The security situation in the Jammu region has also taken a hit due to a raft of terror attacks, again raising concerns about the possible impact on panchayat and urban local body elections.

Five soldiers were killed and an officer wounded in a terror ambush in Rajouris Kandi forest area in May, with the attack suspected to have been carried out by the same group of terrorists who ambushed an army truck and killed five soldiers in Poonch in April. More terror-related incidents have taken place after the two attacks, including the latest one in Rajouri. The army has lost 25 soldiers in this forested region near the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan, the officials said. Pakistan has been focusing on the Jammu region, especially Rajouri and Poonch, for the last two years because the terrain and the location of the LoC suit them for (aiding) infiltration, said J&Ks former DGP SP Vaid.

To be sure, the restoration of ceasefire in February 2021 between Indian and Pakistani militaries along the LoC in J&K has held well and led to a drop in infiltration by terrorists (at least until a few months ago).

J&K director general of police Dilbag Singh earlier said in Sopore that the region was becoming terror-free and the focus would now be on cracking down on drug smuggling. He added that the number of active terrorists was at an all-time low and the scourge was on the verge of being wiped out. We will make efforts to finish off the remaining terrorists, he recently said. According to him, nine to 12 foreign terrorists are still active in Rajouri and Poonch districts. They keep shuffling between Kulgam-Shopian and Rajouri-Poonch, he said.

This year, security forces killed 46 terrorists out of whom 37 were foreign terrorists, according to official data.
BJP national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia said Shah Rukh Khan should be thanked for exposing the 'corrupt, policy paralysis ridden Congress rule from 2004 to 2014' in the Jawan movie as the BJP leader said the Atlee-directed movie reminds all viewers of the 'tragic political past during the UPA government'. SRK's dialogue 'Hum jawaan hain, apni jaan hazaar baar daon par laga sakte hain, lekin sirf desh ke liye; tumhare jaise desh bechne walo ke liye hargiz nahi' is so apt for the Gandhi Parivar, the BJP leader said. BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia thanked Shah Rukh Khan for exposing the corruption of the Congress in Jawan movie.

The long Twitter (now known as X) post comes as there is a cold war over Jawan among the political parties. Some Congress leaders praised the movie and asked whether the government could screen it as it did with Gadar. The Aam Aadmi Party, meanwhile, claimed the dialogues of Jawan are what Arvind Kejriwal has been saying all along.

As Bhatia put out his analysis, he said 1.6 lakh farmers committed suicides in the Congress era while the BJP implemented MSP, credited 2.55 lakh crore to 11 crore farmers. The BJP provided 2.3 lakh bulletproof jackets, disbursed 1.2 lakh crore though OROP, while the Congress prioritised VVIP choppers over bulletproof jackets for our soldiers.

"Congress rejected former Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi Major's request for surgical strikes after 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. BJP responded decisively and swiftly to the Pulwama attack, conducting Balakot air strikes," Bhatia explained.

"Thank you, @iamsrk. Under the leadership of PM Shri @narendramodi Ji, these issues are now a thing of the past," the BJP leader tweeted.

'Thank you SRK for...': BJP, AAP, Congress queue for credit

As soon as the movie released, the AAP said Shah Rukh Khan's Jawan asked the voters to raise questions; Kejriwal has been doing the same. On Wednesday, Kejriwal himself referred to Jawan and said, "In the movie 'Jawan', Shah Rukh Khan said not to give votes on the basis of religion and caste and instead ask them (candidates) if they can give good education and medical aid. Today, there is only one party - AAP - that asks for votes on the promise of providing education to their children."

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh asked whether the government will be able to screen Jawan in the new Parliament building like it screened Gadar. Gadar-2 was shown in the new Parliament building a few days back. Will the Modi Sarkar have the courage to screen Jawan as well?" Jairam Ramesh tweeted.

The BJP played on the front foot as it showed Shah Rukh Khan's tweet congratulating PM Modi for the success of the G-20 and wondered whether the 'direct endorsement' will make Shah Rukh Khan fall from the grace of a section. "A large number of fact checkers & their loudmouth employers were searching for indirect hints in a movie.. Hope they wont boycott it after a direct endorsement and at the very least they will show similar grace & congratulate Bharat for a successful #G20," BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
New Delhi The Indian Air Force (IAF)s newest transport aircraft, the C-295, is expected to be the centrepiece of the upcoming Air Force Day parade, and the IAF will raise its first squadron of the tactical airlifters at the Vadodara air base in Gujarat, officials aware of the matter said on Thursday, requesting anonymity. IAFs C-295 is expected to take part in the upcoming Air Force Day parade. (PTI)

Read here: Indian Air Force takes delivery of first C-295 aircraft from Airbus in Spain

The C-295s will boost the air forces logistics capabilities to meet mission requirements in forward areas, including those near the contested border with China, and replace its ageing fleet of Avro transport aircraft that entered service in the early 1960s, said one of the officials.

Airbus Defence and Space on Wednesday handed over to the IAF its first C-295 aircraft in Seville, Spain. IAF chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari took the delivery of the plane, part of a 21,935-crore Make in India project to upgrade the IAFs transport fleet, at a ceremony held at Airbuss San Pablo site.

The first aircraft, which will be formally inducted into IAF at the Hindan air base on September 25, is likely to take part in this years Air Force Day parade to be held at Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh on October 8, when the IAF celebrates its 91st anniversary, said a second official.

The Air Force Day parade was traditionally held at the Hindan Air base till 2021 before the event was taken outside the national capital. It was held in Chandigarh last year in line with the new tradition of the tri-services organising their flagship ceremonial events in other parts of the country.

The first squadron will be raised in Vadodara as the IAF wants the initial batch of aircraft to be based near the C-295 production facility there. A C-295 squadron will consist of 10 to 12 aircraft, the officials said.

The delivery of the first C-295 came two years after the defence ministry signed a contract with Airbus for 56 planes to boost self-reliance in the defence manufacturing sector. Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Airbus are jointly executing the programme. The European plane maker will deliver 16 planes in flyaway condition, while the rest will be assembled in India at the Tata facility in Vadodara.

IAFs second C-295 is in final assembly at in Seville, and will be delivered in May 2024. The last of the 16 flyaway aircraft will be delivered to IAF by August 2025, while the first made in India C-295 will roll out of the Vadodara facility in September 2026 and the remaining 39 by August 2031.

The delivery of the first plane marks the beginning of a new era wherein we will be manufacturing 40 of these aircraft in India. This starts a new era where we will be manufacturing military aircraft completely in India, Chaudhari said on Wednesday.

Read here: Airbus to deliver 1st C-295 aircraft to IAF on September 13

The production of components of these aircraft has already started at the main constituent assembly for the C-295 set up by Tata at Hyderabad, while the final assembly line in Vadodara will be operational in November 2024. The Hyderabad facility will focus on manufacturing and assembly of C-295 parts that will go into building the full aircraft at Vadodara.

In October 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the Vadodara facility. The C-295 will be the first military aircraft to be manufactured in India by a private consortium.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Arrested Hindu activist Chaitra Kundapur on Thursday claimed that several bigwigs were involved in the cash for ticket scam in Karnataka. Kundapur made this statement to media persons while being taken for interrogation at the City Crime Branch (CCB) office in Bengaluru on Thursday morning. HT Image

Once the swamiji is arrested, the truth will come out. Several bigwigs names will be out, she said while being taken to the CCB office.

Bengaluru CCB police on Tuesday night arrested Kundapur from the parking area of Krishna Mutt in Udupi, and the six other accused from Chikkamagaluru, for allegedly cheating a businessman of 7 crore by promising him a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ticket from Byndoor constituency in Udupi district, in the recently held Assembly elections in the state.

Police officials privy to the development said the arrests were made based on a complaint by Govind Babu Pujari (44), a businessman, at the Bandepalya police station in Bengaluru. Pujari, had filed a complaint against eight people including Kundapur on September 8.

On Thursday, when questioned whether she was the prime accused in the case, Kundapur accused Pujari of conspiring against her to get his pending Indira Canteen bills. His Indira canteen bill is pending due to which he [Pujari] planned this, she claimed.

According to the FIR, the complainant has accused Kundapur of cheating him of 5 crore in three phases by assuring him a BJP ticket from the Byndoor constituency. The complainant claimed that Kundapur and her associate had disguised a person named Ramesh to act as an RSS leader Vishwanath, claiming he had over 45 years of experience as a campaigner in the organisation, and the recommendation should go through him.

The complainant further alleged that Vishwanath promised to get him a ticket only if 50 lakh is paid in three days to start the process, adding that he was promised of a refund if the ticket isnt provided.

Pujari also claimed that he had given 1.5 crore to a seer named Abhinava Halasri of Ballari, who has been named as suspect number 3 in the FIR, based on Vishwanaths directions. Kundapur is said to have taken the complainant to the Mutt and introduced him to the seer. Pictures of the Kundapur at the mutt were widely circulated on social media on Thursday.

The FIR stated that the complainant got suspicious when the accused claimed that Vishwanath had passed away. When he got suspicious, he enquired about him and found that there was no RSS leader named Vishwanath. When Pujari asked for his money back, Kundapur and her associatewent incommunicado, after which he approached the police.

The complainant in the FIR claimed that after he asked for his money, the seer had sought time to return his money and requested him not to take his name in the case.

The Swamiji (seer Abhinava Halasri) has been absconding since the arrest of Kundapur and the police have launched a hunt for him. According to officials privy to the developments, the seer did not visit the Mutt on Wednesday and has switched off his phone after the police arrested Kundapur.

Meanwhile, former chief minister Basavaraj Bommai on Thursday said that the BJP has nothing to do with the case of fraud and urged stringent action against the culprits.

Speaking to reporters in Mangaluru, Bommai said, We have nothing to do with the Chaitra Kundapur case. There should be a thorough investigation into the case. Stringent punishment should be given to whoever involved. Whether it is a Swamiji, or whoever it is, they should be arrested.

We take the matter of taking cash for ticket seriously. It is clear that BJP has nothing to do with this. Let there be investigation into the case. Those who are in the guilty position claim big names are involved. But the truth should come out after investigation, Bommai added.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Mohali's Colonel Manpreet Singh was one of the jawans killed in a gunfight with the terrorists in J&K's Anantnag area that started on Tuesday evening. Colonel Singh was leading the battalion that resumed the operation on Wednesday morning. He was severely injured in the gunfight and succumbed to his injuries later. Major Ashish Dhonack and Deputy Superintendent Humayun Bhat lost their lives. Colonel Singh last spoke to his family on Wednesday morning. At that time he was busy and said he would speak later. The later never came as a pall of gloom descended at his village by the afternoon when it his family members were informed that the Colonel lost his life. Colonel Manpreet Singh, who was martyred in Anantnag operations on Wednesday, completed 17 years of service.(PTI)

Colonel Manpreet Singh belonged to 12th Sikh LI, received Sena medal. Dhonack belonged to 15th Sikh LI. Manpreet Singh's brother-in-law Virender Gill said they spoke to Manpreet at 6.45am. "He said he would speak later," Gill said. Manpreet is survived by his wife, mother and two kids -- a six-year-old son and a two-year-old daughter.

When his brother-in-law spoke to him last, he said he was busy as the operation was already on. The family got to know in the afternoon that he was injured in the operation. His wife was told the same by the family even after they received the news of his death.

Manpreet was a second-generation Grewal Army officer and already completed 17 years of service. In 2021, Col Manpreet Singh was decorated with the Sena Medal for gallantry after he neutralised terrorists in J&K. In his service, Col Singh spent almost five years with the same Rashtriya Rifles battalion, the first three as the second-in-command and then as the Commanding Officer. His wife Jagmeet Grewal is a lecturer in the Haryana education department. He was recently honoured with a gallantry award by the Army. He was about to complete his tenure with Rashtriya Rifles in four months.

The attack comes a day after an Army personnel and Kent, a six-year-old female Labrador of the Army's dog unit, were killed and three security personnel injured in the gunfight in South of Pir Panjal at Rajouri in Jammu region. Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in the remote Narla village.

Anantnag operations: 2 Lashkar terrorists encircled

Two Lashkar terrorists responsible for the killing of the three jawans have been encircled by the security forces on Thursday. Police said the operation to neutralise the militants is underway and two militants of LeT have been encircled by forces. "In solemn tribute to the unwavering valor of Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak & DSP Humayun Bhat who laid down their lives leading from the front during this ongoing operation. Our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LET terrorists including Uzair Khan," J&K Police said on its official handle on X (formerly twitter).

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday attacked the Congress government in Chhattisgarh, saying the state government has only indulged in scams and corruption in various schemes, including in the cow dung procurement scheme. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed a public gathering in Chhattisgarhs Raipur (Twitter Photo)

Addressing a public rally in Raigarh, PM Modi said that the Congress is doing politics of scams in Chhattisgarh and Congress leaders are looting the people of the state while accusing the Congress government of indulging only in empty talk and claims.

The Congress government in Chhattisgarh is way ahead in corruption in comparison to the welfare of poor You can imagine the mentality of the government which is engaged in corruption in cow dung procurement, Modi said.

Modi said that the Congress had promised a liquor ban but instead indulged in a liquor sale scam.

The Chhattisgarh government is based on a plank of false promises and they have only indulged in corruption scandals, he said, adding that on one hand, they promised to make Chhattisgarh a liquor-free state and on another, the government itself is involved in the liquor scam, said Modi.

We wanted the people to get the advantage of the district mineral fund (DMF). We wanted the district from mining to be done, and a part of the income should be given to the welfare of the people of that district. We wanted that tribals should get the most advantage of DMF but the Congress party is now using the DMF as their ATM, said Modi.

False propaganda and corruption are the hallmarks of the Congress government in Chhattisgarh, says PM Modi.

Chhattisgarh is a powerhouse of development of the country, the Prime Minister remarked as he noted that a country will move forward only if its powerhouses are working at full strength.

Modi said that in the past nine years, the Central government has continuously worked for the multifaceted development of Chhattisgarh and the results of that vision and those policies can be witnessed here today.

Earlier in the day, the PM dedicated rail sector projects worth around Rs.6,350 crore, including Chhattisgarh East Rail Project Phase-I, a third rail line between Champa and Jamga, a third rail line between Pendra Road to Anuppur, and MGR (merry-go-round) system connecting the Talaipalli Coal Mine to NTPC Lara Super Thermal Power Station (STPS).

The PM also laid the foundation stone of 50 beds for each critical care block to be built in nine districts of Chhattisgarh under a healthcare initiative of the Centre.

Although chief minister Bhupesh Baghel was not present, the state was represented by deputy chief minister T S Singhdeo.

In his speech, Singhdeo said that in his experience, the Centre was not biased towards states. In my experience, I have never seen any biases from the Central government. If we as the state governments have worked in the state and have asked for anything, the Centre has never refused to provide it. We believe that we will work for the development with the help of mutual cooperation, said Singhdeo.

Modi also reiterated that the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) alliance wants to erase the Santana culture of this country.

The land of Chhattisgarh is nanihaal (maternal home) of Lord Rama... Today on this land, I want to raise the issue of the conspiracy against our faith and our country. Those who are out of the central government because of you and those who are continuously defeated in the elections, those people have developed hatred towards you and now they open a front against your identity and culture, Modi said.

The PM further stated, These people have collectively formed an INDIA alliance, some people are calling it as Ghamandaiya (egotistic) Alliance. Now they have decided they will erase the Sanatana culture of the country, which means, that culture which has united the country for thousands of years  they want to demolish that culture for power.

The PM has also appealed to the people to vote for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the betterment of the state.

The BJP government is important for the people of Chhattisgarh. When we come in power, the youth of Chhattisgarh can get jobs in the state and the state will get investments  said Modi, appealing to people to vote for the BJP in coming assembly elections.

Modi also reiterated that INDIA alliance wants to erase the Santana culture of this county.

The land of Chhattisgarh is nanihaal ( maternal home ) of Lord Rama .. Today on this land, I want to raise the issue of the conspiracy against our faith and our country. Those who are out of the central government because of you and those who are continuously defeated in the elections, those people have developed hatred towards you and now they open a front against your identity and culture, Modi said.

The PM further stated, These people have collectively formed an INDIA alliance, some people are calling it as Ghamandaiya (egotistic) Alliance. Now they have decided they will erase the Sanatana culture of the country, which means, that culture which has united the country for thousands of years  they want to demolish that culture for power.

The PM has also appealed the people of the state to vote for BJP for the betterment of the state.

The BJP government is important for the people of Chhattisgarh. When we come in power the youth of Chhattisgarh can get jobs in the state and the state will get investments  said Modi appealing people to vote for BJP in coming assembly elections.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Ritesh Mishra State Correspondent for Chhattisgarh. Reports Maoism, Politics, Mining and important developments from the state. Covered all sorts of extremism in Central India. Reported from Madhya Pradesh for eight years. ...view detail
Nine panchayats in Kozhikode district of Kerala have been turned into containment zones, with hundreds of Asha (accredited social health activist) workers visiting homes of residents every day, conducting medical check-ups , monitoring people, and collecting data. The panchayats are also visited by volunteers with food and other daily essentials. Everything is reminiscent of Covid-era restrictions. A patient being admitted to a Nipah isolation ward at the medical college in Kozhikode (PTI)

Read here: Nipah virus: Past outbreaks, scrutiny helped in case detection

This time, like back then, the enemy is a virus. The containment zones were created after two people died after being infected by the Nipah virus, which causes respiratory distress and encephalitis. Five more are undergoing treatment at the hospitals. The samples of another 11 have been sent to Punes National Institute of Virology for testing. And 600 people, in all, are believed to have been exposed to the two people who died.

In Ayancheri , Moidu Master Kattil, the local panchayat president, said Asha workers are collecting detailed information about the health of the residents using a form. Residents will fill the form based on their current health status. If they are experiencing fever, cough or other symptoms, they have to record it and we will keep a close tab.

The panchayat is also holding daily meetings, co-ordinating with the police, and officials from the states animal husbandry and health departments. Those who are rich or belong to the middle-class, its fine to sit at home for a few days. But the poor who depend on daily wages have to be taken care of, he said.

Health minister Veena George said that the containment zones were created in a five-kilometre radius of the homes of the two men who succumbed to the Nipah virus on August 30 and September 11.

The epicentres of the outbreak are the Kallad ward in Maruthonkara panchayat and Mangalad ward in Ayancheri panchayat. The 47-year-old man who died on August 30 was a resident of Maruthonkara, the 40-year-old who passed away on September 11 lived in Ayancheri.

As of Thursday afternoon, Kozhikode District Collector A Geetha had declared 53 wards as containment zones across nine panchayats. This number is likely to increase if more positive cases of the virus are reported in forthcoming days.

The drill is the same as it was during Covid. All key entry and exit routes to and from these wards are barricaded and police personnel are posted . Shops selling essential items and medical shops can operate from 7 am to 5 pm. Those requiring urgent medical care and hospital attention are exempt from the restrictions.

Sajith K, president of the Maruthonkara panchayat where the first victim lived, said ward-level Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) were activated as soon as reports filtered in of suspected Nipah virus infections. Eight of the 14 wards in the panchayat are under lockdown.

We had these RRTs during the Covid-19 pandemic as well. They consist of the ward member, Asha worker and Kudumbashree workers as well as volunteers. The strength of the RRTs varies depending on the population of the ward. There are 10-12 volunteers per ward, he said.

Kudumbashree is the states self-help programme employing lakhs of women in various sectors and their functioning is considered integral to the development of the local panchayats.

He said that routine announcements through the loudspeaker are made in the wards which have been turned into containment zones to make people aware of the restrictions in place as well as the guidelines they are expected to follow. Several high-risk contacts of the first Nipah victim are in home quarantine here.

Residents cannot step out unnecessarily. If they need any kind of help with regard to medicines or essential food items, we provide them through our volunteers who are given badges by the panchayat. Schools and other educational institutions are also shut, said Sajith.

Read here: Genotype I strain of Nipah virus variant likely present in Kerala

People here are aware of the seriousness of the situation due to past experience. Changaroth panchayat which was the epicentre of the 2018 Nipah outbreak which killed 17 people is very close to us. So, we are familiar with the restrictions of such containment zones. They also know that Nipah is several times more deadly than Covid-19 so they are cooperating, he added.

Sameera Basheer, a ward member in the panchayat, said 90% of the people are cooperating with the restrictions. The first victim of Nipah was a resident of my ward. His death on August 30 was seen as natural at that time and later proved to be from Nipah virus. Hundreds of people attended his funeral at the time. They have all been identified and put under quarantine. They are high-risk contacts but they have not developed any symptoms, she said.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Vishnu Varma Vishnu Varma is Assistant Editor and reports from Kerala for the Hindustan Times. He has 10 years of experience writing for print and digital platforms and has worked at The New York Times, NDTV and The Indian Express in the past. He specialises in longform reportage at the intersections of politics, crime, social commentary and environment. ...view detail
As the Janata Dal (Secular) (JD(S))and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) prepare to discuss the terms of a pre-poll alliance, voices of dissent can be seen emerging from within the saffron party. This comes just days after the leader of the JD(S) expressed objections to the partys decision to join forces with the BJP. Preetham Gowda (ANI)

Former BJP MLA and prominent Vokkaliga leader Preetham Gowda stated that the JD(S) intends to use an alliance with their party to strengthen their own support base, and no BJP worker in Karnataka would be willing to endorse such an arrangement. Let the BJP stand firm in the 28 Lok Sabha constituencies, and I wholeheartedly support the idea of Narendra Modi continuing as Prime Minister. We are well aware of the BJPs intent to retain power at the national level, he told reporters in Bengaluru on Thursday.

Gowda further asked why should he support the workers of the party (JD(S)), who attacked his house as part of a political vendetta. But I have been hearing JD(S) leaders stating that they want the alliance to retain their workers and strengthen their party. If that is their objective, no worker of the BJP in Karnataka will support this, he said.

Preetham Gowda remarked that if the JD(S) desires an alliance, they should openly declare that it would help the BJP win all 28 seats in Karnataka. Later, we can decide on the seat-sharing, based on survey results. BJP leaders know how to strengthen their party. We need not forge an alliance to help them improve their strength, he added.

The leader also pointed out that aligning with the JD(S) would impact the partys fight against dynasty politics. BJP has been fighting against dynasty politics. If there is an alliance with the JD(S), who will become their candidate in Hassan? Of course, a member of the Deve Gowda family will become the candidate. If so, why should we support that party?

Hours after Gowda expressed his concerns about his partys decision, former chief minister BS Yediyurappa, who returned to Bengaluru following his participation in the BJP Central Election Committee meeting in Delhi, clarified that during the meeting, there was no discussion regarding an alliance with the JD(S).

Yediyurappa also stated that he is unaware of what Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah are thinking about the possibility of BJP forming an understanding with JD(S) for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

Yesterdays discussions primarily revolved around the G20 and Madhya Pradesh elections. There was limited time for other matters, and Karnataka was not discussed. I cannot speculate on the thoughts of PM Modi and Amit Shah, Yediyurappa explained.

Regarding objections raised by certain state leaders regarding the alliance, Yediyurappa clarified that the ultimate decision would be made by leaders in Delhi. What the leadership in Delhi says is more important. This issue did not come up for discussion yesterday, during my visit to Delhi. Certainly, any decision made by the high command in Delhi will involve consultations with state leadership. However, so far, no discussions have taken place concerning electoral understanding and other matters, he said.

Last week, Yediyurappa confirmed that the BJP and JD(S) would form an alliance in the state for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, with home minister Amit Shah agreeing to allocate four seats to the regional party. However, JD(S) leadership claimed that nothing had been finalised and talks will be held soon.

On Monday, JD(S) MLA from Gurmitkal, Sharanagouda Kandakur, said that joining hands with the BJP will threaten the partys future. The Congress-JD(S) government was brought down by the BJP. In the 2023 elections, our partys division of votes helped the BJP. Now, if we go with the BJP, what will be our political future tomorrow? he asked.

We have followed the orders of the partys leaders no matter what. Ultimately, when it comes to the field, the alliance with the BJP raises questions about our political existence. This question haunts all of our leaders, Sharangowda Kandakur added.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued summons to K Kavitha, Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader and daughter of Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, asking her to appear before it on Friday for questioning in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy and paying kickbacks to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, officials familiar with the development said on Thursday. Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader K Kavitha (File Photo)

The BRS leader was earlier questioned by ED in March in connection with the case.

The federal anti-money laundering probe agency is trying to unearth her role in influencing the policy and alleged bribery allegations, said officials.

The ED has alleged that Kavitha was in touch with AAPs communication in-charge Vijay Nair, who had met liquor businessmen and politicians at the time of policy formulation and implementation.

Also Read: Delhi excise policy scam: CBI summons 10 Punjab officials

Officials mentioned above said that Kavitha is expected to be also questioned about her association with Sameer Mahendrus Indospirits Group to control multiple retail zones in Delhi, and advance payment of kickbacks worth Rs.100 crore to the AAP leaders by an alleged South Group of which she was a member.

People familiar with the developments said during her previous interrogation session, Kavitha was confronted with the statements of Butchibabu Gorantla, her former chartered accountant and Arun Ramchandra Pillai, who represented her interests during multiple meetings with Nair and others.

Both Gorantla and Pillai were arrested arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), in February and March, respectively. Former Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia, who has been portrayed as the main accused in the formulation of the now-scrapped 2021-22 exercise policy, was arrested in February.

Butchibabu, in his statement recorded before the ED officials on February 23 stated that There was a political understanding between K Kavitha and the chief minister of Delhi (Arvind Kejriwal) and (former) deputy CM (Manish Sisodia) of Delhi. In that process, K Kavitha has also met Vijay Nair on 19th-20th March 2021.

Vijay Nair was trying to impress K Kavitha with what he could do in the policy. Vijay Nair was acting on behalf of the CM of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal and Dy CM Manish Sisodia. The understanding was that in exchange for the favours that can be done in the policy and the Delhi liquor business for K Kavitha, some funds would given to the AAP, Butchibabu stated in his statement to ED, reviewed by HT.

Out of the deal that was between K Kavitha and top AAP leaders, she was given stakes in partnership with Sameer (Mahendru) and distribution of Pernod Ricard, ED said in one of its court documents earlier.

Also Read: CBI files FIR against ED assistant director in Delhi excise policy case

Pillai, according to investigators, represented the benami investments of Kavitha. He was allegedly actively involved in cartel formation and was an accomplice in the payment of bribe money on behalf of South Group.

ED has alleged that a part of the Rs.100 crore kickbacks generated in the Delhi excise policy was used in the AAP campaign in the 2022 Goa assembly election.

The agency has also pegged the loss in the excise policy irregularities at Rs.2,873 crore.

The South Group comprises Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party MP Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy, his son Raghav Magunta, Sarath Reddy (promoter of Aurobindo Group), K Kavitha and Delhi-based businessman Sameer Mahendru.

Kavitha has rubbished the allegations against her.

Kavitha has maintained that these tactics of intimidation against the fight of my father and chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao, and the BRS will not deter us.

Kejriwal has also termed the charges as fake.

The Delhi governments 2021-22 excise policy aimed to revitalise the citys flagging liquor business. It aimed to replace a sales-volume-based regime with a license fee for traders, and promised swankier stores, free of the infamous metal grilles, ultimately giving customers a better buying experience. The policy also introduced discounts and offers on the purchase of liquor, a first for Delhi.

The plan, however, came to an abrupt end, with Delhis lieutenant governor Vinai Kumar Saxena recommending a probe into alleged irregularities in the regime.

This ultimately resulted in the policy being scrapped prematurely and being replaced by the 2020-21 regime, with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) alleging that Saxenas predecessor sabotaged the move with a few last-minute changes that resulted in lower-than-expected revenues.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Union minister Anurag Thakur on Thursday hit out at the opposition bloc I.N.D.I.A over its decision to boycott certain television news anchors. While speaking to reporters in poll-bound Rajasthan, Thakur called the move Emergency 2.0.



""The steps that the INDI alliance have taken against the media is emergency 2.0...This shows that they do not believe in democracy", ANI quoted the Union information and broadcasting minister as saying.



In states like Bengal and Tamil Nadu, cases are registered against journalists. Now the opposition parties are calling for their boycott. They want to gag the media. There is nothing more shameful than this, Thakur added while speaking to reporters.



Thakur's cabinet colleague Hardeep Singh Puri also hit out at the opposition. The only instance we have seen of civil liberties being curtailed in India was during the Emergency in 1975. Open calls for eradication of #SanatanDharma, FIRs against journalists & boycott of media reflect politics of those dark years of emergency. True face of I.N.D.I.Alliance?, the Union minister posted on social media platform X. Union minister Anurag Thakur (File Photo)

The media committee of the I.N.D.I.A bloc prepared a list of anchors whose shows the spokespersons and leaders will not attend. The list includes prominent journalists including Arnab Goswami, Sudhir Chaudhary, Chitra Tripathi, Gaurav Sawant, Shiv Aroor and others.



Everyday at 5 pm onwards, shops of hate are set up on television channels. We will not remain a customer of Nafrat Ke Bazaar (market of hate'. Our mission is a hate-free India. With a heavy heart, we have decided not to attend the shows and events of some anchors. We have been fighting baseless comments against our leaders and fake news and continue to do so. But we will not let hate spread in the society. Hate will lose, love will triumph, Congress leader Pawan Khera said in a post on social media platform X.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The gunbattle between security forces and a terror squad at Anantnag has brought into focus how young and combat-hardened commanding officers of specialist counterterrorism units of the Indian Army operating in Jammu and Kashmir are filling four crucial roles --- leading from the front, conducting operations on the ground, providing motivation on the battlefield and keeping the men under their command out of harms way, senior officials said on Thursday. Colonel Manpreet Singh was killed in an encounter with terrorists in Kokernag area of Anantnag district on Wednesday. (PTI)

As India mourns the three killed in action in a dense forest near Anantnag on Wednesday --- including Colonel Manpreet Singh, the commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) --- the ongoing encounter with terrorists offers a grim reminder of the everyday perils of a soldiers life, unpredictable combat outcomes and the vulnerability of commanders supervising operations, the officials added, asking not to be named.

Singh joins a list of commanding officers of RR battalions who have died in the line of duty, leading their men in the pursuit of military-style trained terrorists in J&K, often sponsored by Pakistan, who have managed to inflict casualties on the security forces and evaded retribution on many occasions.

The ambush-style killings of Singh, his company commander Major Ashish Dhonchak and deputy superintendent of police Humayun Muzamil Bhat have shaken the relative calm in the Kashmir Valley where terror attacks had declined significantly and were at a five-year low (according to terrorism-related data tabled by the government in Parliament).

The data covering the last five years (2018-to July 2023) shows a marked decline in terror incidents, encounters and counter-terror operations, and the number of security personnel and civilians killed. For instance, J&K recorded only 30 terrorist-initiated incidents till July 31 this year, compared to 125 last year, 129 in 2021, 126 in 2020, 153 in 2019 and 228 in 2018, while encounters/counter-terror operations in the same period stood at 24, 117, 100, 118, 102 and 189.

Singh is the first commanding officer to be killed in action in Kashmir in the last three years.

The Anantnag encounter is reminiscent of a fierce gunfight between the security forces and a group of terrorists in Handwara in which Colonel Ashutosh Sharma, the commanding officer of 21 Rashtriya Rifles, his company commander Major Anuj Sood, two army jawans and a sub inspector were killed in May 2020, months after the Covid-19 outbreak in India.

Other commanding officers killed in action in Kashmir over the years include Colonel Santosh Mahadik, Colonel MN Rai, Colonel Vasanth Venugopal and Colonel Jojan Thomas --- all of whom were decorated with top gallantry awards for uncommon courage and leadership in the combat zone.

To be sure, some in the army circles have questioned the presence of commanding officers during gunfights, arguing that junior leadership (captains and majors) should be allowed to conduct operations and battalion commanders should step in only if necessary as their loss is a huge setback.

There is sometimes a view expressed that commanding officers should not be leading from the front and putting themselves in the direct line of fire because their loss of is a huge setback to the unit, said former Northern Army commander Lieutenant General DS Hooda (retd). Some believe it would be preferable if they direct operations somewhat from the rear where they would have a more complete picture, he said. But it doesnt always work that way, he added.

I dont think one can prescribe a formula that fits all situations and all personalities. The army has extremely fine commanding officers and it would be wise to let them make their decisions based on their assessment of the situation. Let us just salute the courage of officers who are willing to give their all in the line of duty.
The strain of Nipah virus variant present in Kerala is likely to be genotype I, according to people familiar with the matter. Nipah has three genotypes Malaysia M genotype; Bangladesh B genotype; India I genotype. In India, two genotypes are commonly found, Bangladesh B and India I, and the latter is the one that has been found in bats and humans in Kerala, according to an expert from the Indian Council of Medical Researchs apex virology in National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Health workers at a control room set up amid Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala (PTI)

Read here: Nipah virus: Past outbreaks, scrutiny helped in case detection

Nipah virus (NiV) is a highly pathogenic virus that causes fatal encephalitisswelling of the brain and acute respiratory distress in humans.

The initial outbreak of NiV infection, resulting in severe encephalitis, occurred among the pig farmers in Malaysia and Singapore in 1998-1999; relatively small, sporadic outbreaks among humans have occurred in Bangladesh and India since 2001, according to several research papers published on the viral disease.

The virus is transmitted to humans by direct contact with the respiratory secretions or body fluids of infected animals, such as bats and pigs, or by consumption of contaminated fruits or palm sap. Both animal-to-human and human-to-human transmission have been documented in several research papers. The main reservoir for NiV is believed to be fruit bats of the genus Pteropus.

With five positive cases reported already from the state of Kerala and several suspected cases under observation currently, this could well be one of the biggest Nipah outbreaks in India since 2001, even though the central and state government both are making efforts to contain the spread of infection, said a senior government official, requesting anonymity. According to research papers, of some 66 probable cases, 45 deaths were reported in the 2001 outbreak.

Minister of state for health, Bharati Pravin Pawar, on Thursday reviewed the situation at NIV.

Visited ICMR-NIV, Pune and held a review meeting in the context of current Nipah Virus outbreak reported in Kozhikode, Kerala. GoI under the visionary leadership of Honble PM Shri @narendramodi ji and under guidance of Honble HFM Dr. @mansukhmandviya ji is continuously monitoring the situation and necessary steps for prevention of spread are being taken, tweeted Pawar after the review. Since 2015, the disease has been enlisted as a priority disease by World Health Organization (WHO).

India has witnessed at least five outbreaks since 2001, from West Bengal, and Kerala, with the latest being the fifth. The first was in Siliguri, West Bengal; the other four have been in Kerala.

According to NIV researchers who authored the paper, Nipah Virus Outbreak in Kerala State, India Amidst of COVID-19 Pandemic, published in Frontiers last year, since 2010, NIV has taken up the surveillance of the Nipah virus in bat populations across the country. During this, the presence of the virus was detected among bats from Maynaguri, West Bengal in 2010 and Cooch Bihar district, West Bengal, and Dhubri district, Assam in 2015.

Read here: Covid era-like containment zones back in Kerala as Nipah resurfaces

There is no specific treatment or a vaccine to prevent the disease. Effective containment is the only possible solution with isolating suspected cases, use of personal protective equipment for health care workers, and implementing infection control policies in hospitals. Surveillance also needs to be strengthened, said the NIV official cited above.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Rhythma Kaul Rhythma Kaul works as an assistant editor at Hindustan Times. She covers health and related topics, including ministry of health and family welfare, government of India. ...view detail
The prinicpal of a private school in South Goa's Vasco was suspended on Monday by the school's management following a police complaint which stated that he took a group of class 11 students to a mosque for a workshop and allegedly asked the students to perform religious rituals. The state's education department sought an explanation from the school's board. (File)

Keshav Smurthi Higher Secondary School's students were invited to the mosque by the Students Islamic Organisation (SIO) on Saturday. As reported by NDTV, the invite was a part of an initiative to promote communal harmony.

The state's education department sought an explanation from the school's board.

The department has sought an explanation from the school management and the response is awaited. The principal, Shankar Gaonka, has been suspended since, it has been brought to our knowledge, said Education Director Shailesh Zingde.

On Monday, Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) members with the Vasco police against the prinipal for allegedly supporting anti-national activities.

The Indian Express reported that VHP claimed that the workshop was conducted on the invitation of an organisation which was affiliated with the banned Popular Front of India.

Photos of several students went viral on social media where the girls could be seen wearing their uniform dupatta over their heads. Parents of the students also staged protests in front of the school along with members of reigh-wing outfits VHP and Bajrang Dal.

Speaking to The Indian Express, former principal Gaonka said that the mosque visit in Dabolim was organised after an invite from the SIO and was organised to promote communal harmony. He said that students from a government school in Baina were also invited.

A total of 21 students from our school, including three girl students and a teacher, were taken to the mosque. Students were shown where the prayers are conducted and entry-exit areas at the mosque. Some students may have covered their heads out of respect. The claim that students were forced to wear hijab or perform rituals is false.

Gaonka said that in the past too, the school had taken students to temples, churches and mosques for visits. Children from all the faiths study at the school. Some students from another school had also visited the mosque. I do not know why I have been suspended, he said.

SIO's parent body Jammat-e-Islami Hind's state president Asif Hussain told The Indian Express that a workshop was organised at the Masjid-E-Noor in Dabolim as a part of their routine initiatives. He said that such visits were an annual feature and students came on their own accord. The school students were shown the area where prayers are conducted and they were given sweets. All these claims [of religious conversion] are baseless.

VHP's South Goa joint secretary Sanju Korgaoker has said that such practices could be a part of school jihad and he claimed that the workshop was a part of a conspiracy to brainwash students and carryout religious conversions.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
AHMEDABAD: A sessions court in Ahmedabad on Thursday dismissed a revision application filed by Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and Aam Aadmi Partys (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh challenging the summons issued to them by a magistrate court in connection with a defamation case filed against them by Gujarat University. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and AAP MP Sanjay Singh were summoned by a judge in Gujarat to face trial in a criminal defamation case (HT File)

Additional sessions judge JM Brahmbhatt said the magistrate decided to take cognisance of the complaint and initiated the legal process against them after a thorough evaluation of the facts and circumstances of the case, as well as the digital audio-video footage.

Hence, considering the facts of the present case, the magistrate has reached the conclusion of subjective satisfaction and issued the process after analyzing and appreciating the material on record, which is neither patently illegal nor erroneous. Thus, in these circumstances, this court does not find any merit in the present revision application, the judge said in his order.

The defamation case was filed over Kejriwal and Singhs comments after the Gujarat high court in March this year set aside the chief information commissioners order asking the university to provide information on Modis degree. The high court slapped a 25,000 fine on Kejriwal who had sought the information.

Gujarat University said the comments by Kejriwal and Singh were sarcastic and derogatory. They have been accused of making these comments at press conferences, which were then posted on Twitter targeting the university over Prime Minister Narendra Modis educational qualifications.

They were summoned by a metropolitan court in Ahmedabad to face trial in the criminal defamation case lodged by Gujarat University, citing alleged derogatory remarks.

The two AAP leaders first moved city civil and sessions court in Ahmedabad, which rejected their appeal. They next approached the Gujarat high court, and then the Supreme Court, which re-directed them to the high court. On August 29, the high court transferred the revision application to a newly assigned court and gave it 10 days to decide the appeal.
* Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with his Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday.

* The two presidents announced the elevation of the China-Venezuela relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership.

* Maduro said Venezuela is willing to learn from China's experience in building special economic zones and deepen practical cooperation in agriculture, investment, education, and tourism.

BEIJING, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with his Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday.

The two presidents announced the elevation of the China-Venezuela relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership.

ALL-WEATHER STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

Xi said China and Venezuela are good friends who trust each other and good partners for common development, hailing the ironclad friendship forged amid the ever-changing international landscape.

"China has always viewed its relations with Venezuela from a strategic and long-term perspective, and firmly supports Venezuela's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, national dignity and social stability, as well as Venezuela's just cause of opposing external interference," Xi told Maduro.

"The establishment of an all-weather strategic partnership between China and Venezuela meets the common expectations of the two peoples and conforms to the general trend of historical development," Xi said, calling on the two sides to push for more fruitful China-Venezuela strategic cooperation, bring more benefits to the two peoples and inject more positive energy into world peace and development.

Maduro said Venezuela and China enjoy profound friendship and fruitful cooperation, making bilateral relations a model for relations among countries of the Global South. He said the Venezuelan people thank the Chinese government and people for their valuable support and assistance when Venezuela was suffering from illegal unilateral sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Maduro said Venezuela's national development and Venezuela-China relations are at a significant stage. "The establishment of an all-weather strategic partnership is of historic significance and will surely usher in a new era of bilateral relations."

Sun Yanfeng, Deputy Director of the Institute of Latin American Studies, China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, noted that Venezuela is the first Latin American country that China established an all-weather strategic partnership with.

"The upgraded relationship means increased political trust, strategic need of each other, and high-level cooperation between the two sides. It also means they will surely expand cooperation in multilateral frameworks and, therefore, contribute to building a fair and just international order," Sun said.

CHINA CHARISMA

Xi spoke about China's reform and opening up, especially the development of special economic zones, and noted that reform and opening up is an important instrument for China to catch up with the times in great strides and a crucial move in making China what it is today.

"China cherishes the valuable experience gained in this process and will continue to push forward reform and opening up. No force can stop China's development and progress," Xi said.

Xi said China stands ready to work with Venezuela to firmly support each other in exploring a development path suited to their national conditions and strengthen Party and national governance exchanges. He said China supports Venezuela in setting up special economic zones and will share relevant experience to help its national development.

Maduro said Venezuela is willing to learn from China's experience in building special economic zones and deepen practical cooperation in agriculture, investment, education, and tourism.

Maduro said Venezuela supports the joint construction of the Belt and Road. The Venezuelan side also supports the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by Xi.

The Venezuelan president said China has become a great country committed to peace, development, and well-being of humanity and a vital engine for promoting a new multi-polar world. He added that everything he has seen and heard during his visit demonstrates China's progress and strength.

Maduro started his week-long China visit in Shenzhen, a reform pioneer where one of China's first special economic zones was established in 1980. There, the Venezuelan president experienced firsthand the achievements of China's reform and opening-up.

If Venezuela can establish Venezuelan-style special zones to attract capital, technology, and management expertise, it will greatly promote Venezuela's development, as Venezuela's economy has been under pressure due to domestic political factors, U.S. sanctions, and COVID-19, said Song Junying. Song is the director of the Department for Latin American and Caribbean Studies at the China Institute of International Studies.

"Whether it is the Belt and Road Initiative or the other three initiatives, China regards other countries as equal partners, fundamentally different from the initiatives put forward by other non-regional powers in history. Therefore, Latin American countries, including Venezuela, have embraced the Chinese initiatives," Song said.

EXPANDING COOPERATION

Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Venezuela. China is ready to strengthen people-to-people exchanges with Venezuela, support the development of Chinese language teaching Confucius institutes in Venezuela, and strengthen media exchanges, Xi said.

He called on the two sides to implement the outcomes of the 17th meeting of the Mixed Venezuela-China High-Level Committee and strengthen practical cooperation in various fields in the next stage.

Xi said China is willing to import more high-quality Venezuelan products and congratulated Venezuela on becoming the first country in the Americas to join the China-initiated cooperation on the International Lunar Research Station.

The two sides should work closely in multilateral mechanisms, including the United Nations, The Group of 77 (G77) and China, strengthen solidarity and cooperation with other developing countries, and jointly safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the common interests of developing countries, the Chinese president said.

Noting China attaches great importance to the development of China-Latin America relations and next year will mark the 10th anniversary of the China-CELAC Forum, Xi said China is ready to work with Venezuela and other countries in the region to promote China-Latin America cooperation and build a community with a shared future.

For his part, Maduro said Venezuela stands ready to strengthen communication and cooperation with China within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations and the BRICS mechanism, safeguard multilateralism and the legitimate interests of developing countries, promote building a community with a shared future for humanity, and play a positive role in promoting the development of CELAC relations with China.

After the talks, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of a number of bilateral cooperation documents in the fields of jointly building the Belt and Road, economy and trade, education, tourism, science and technology, health, aerospace, and civil aviation.
Hindi unites diverse languages of the country and has honoured different languages and dialects, but will never compete with any other Indian tongue, Union home minister Amit Shah said on Thursday, emphasising that a strong country will emerge only by strengthening all its languages. Hindi unites diverse languages of the country, says Union home minister Amit Shah. (ANI)

The Union minister made the remarks through a video message, posted on X, on the occasion of Hindi Diwas, which is observed on September 14 every year. In 1949, Hindi, along with English, was made the official language of the Union of India.

Shahs statement came against the backdrop of allegations by opposition parties that the Centre was trying to impose Hindi on non-Hindi speaking states.

India has been a country of diverse languages, the Union minister said in his message. Hindi unites the diversity of languages in the worlds largest democracy. Hindi has been a democratic language. It has honoured different Indian languages and dialects as well as many global languages and adopted their vocabularies, sentences and grammar rules, he said.

Hindi neither ever has competed and nor will compete with any other Indian language. Only by strengthening all our languages, a strong nation will be created, he added.

Shah explained the significance of Hindi language in uniting the country during the difficult days of the independence movement.

Hindi played an unprecedented role in uniting the country during the difficult days of the independence movement. It instilled a feeling of unity in a country divided into many languages and dialects. Hindi, as a language of communication, played an important role in carrying forward the freedom struggle from the East to the West and the North to the South in the country, he said.

He said the architects of the Constitution accepted Hindi on September 14, 1949. The original and creative expression of any country is possible only through its own language which we have to carry with us as all Indian languages and dialects are our cultural heritage, he said.

In a bid to increase the use of official language in different parts of the country, a total of 528 Town Official Language Implementation Committees (TOLIC) have been formed so far, Shah said. Even in foreign countries, TOLICs have been formed in London, Singapore, Fiji, Dubai and Port-Louis. India has also taken initiatives to promote the use of Hindi language in the United Nations, he said.

Shah said the Parliamentary Committee on Official Language was constituted to periodically review the work done in the countrys official language. It was given the responsibility to review the progress made in the use of Hindi in government work across the country and prepare its report and present it to the President, he added.

Besides, Shah said the department of official language of the ministry of home affairs was making continuous efforts, by leveraging modern technology, to enrich Indian languages and establish them as languages of public administration, education and scientific use. He said under Prime Minister Narendra Modis guidance, public welfare schemes were being implemented effectively by establishing communication between the government and the public in Indian languages.

He pointed out that the principle of language change says language moves from complexity to simplicity. He said that in his opinion, Simple and clear words of Hindi should be used in office work.

Several political parties in the south accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Centre of imposing Hindi in non-Hindi speaking states.

Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalins son, Udhayanidhi Stalin, slammed Shah for his absurd claim that Hindi unites the nation.

I strongly condemn the statement of Union home minister Amit Shah claiming that Hindi is the uniting force of India and it is empowering other regional languages. Hindi is spoken only in four or five states in the country and hence, the statement of Amit Shah is totally absurd. It is only another version of imposing Hindi under the guise of generating livelihood, he wrote on X.

While we are speaking Tamil here, Kerala speaks Malayalam. Where does Hindi merge with and empower us? Amit Shah should stop oppressing non-Hindi languages by calling them just regional languages, he added.
A manhunt was underway on Thursday for the group the terrorists responsible for the ambush-style killings of two army officers and a deputy superintendent of police in Jammu and Kashmirs Anantnag district a day earlier, with the hot pursuit involving some of the armys finest fighting men, including those from the special forces, counterterrorism specialists from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, dog squads, modern surveillance equipment, jammers and drones to prevent the terrorists from giving security forces the slip, officials tracking the developments said. Security personnel at the site of encounter in Anantang on Thursday. (Waseem Andrabi/HT Photo)

Read here: Ex-cop father pays respect to son DSP Humayun Bhat, martyred in J&K ops: Video

Colonel Manpreet Singh, the commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Major Ashish Dhonchak, also from the same battalion, and DSP Humayun Muzamil Bhat were killed in a gunfight on Wednesday while leading teams that were hunting for the terrorists who were lying in wait in concealed positions in the dense Garol forest at Kokernag in Anantnag. Two soldiers were also injured in the terror strike, HT has learnt.

The security forces managed to close in on two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists on Thursday after reinforcements were brought in, with top army and police officers monitoring the anti-terror operation.

In solemn tribute to the valour of Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak and DSP Humayun Bhat, who laid down their lives leading from the front during this ongoing operation, our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LeT terrorists, including Uzair Khan, the J&K Police wrote on X.

Khan, who knows the lay of the land, joined LeT only last year but quickly climbed up the terror ranks to become a so-called commander.

All likely escape routes were sealed, the officials said.

Assault teams zeroed in on what they believed to be a terrorist hideout (a cave-like structure) and brought the fury of their automatic weapons on it in their effort to neutralise the likely occupants, HT has learnt. The army and the police launched a joint operation on Tuesday night after receiving intelligence about terrorist movement and their likely hideout in the forested area. The possibility of the anti-terror squads being lured into the area has not been ruled out by some officials.

The operation has entered into a crucial stage, and the security forces could take another day to flush out the terrorists, said one of the officials. There were no official statements from either the army or the police giving out the details of the operation.

The attack came weeks after three soldiers were killed in an encounter in Kulgams Halan forest in early August. That operation was also launched after specific inputs were received about the presence of terrorists in the area.

The mortal remains of Singh and Dhonchak are expected to reach Chandigarh and Panipat, respectively, on Friday after which the last rites will be performed. Bhats last rites were performed in Srinagar on Wednesday.

Only 12 to 15 terrorists, including some foreigners, are still active in Anantnag and Kulgam, the officials said. The place where the encounter took place in Anantnag was traditionally notorious for being a transit point for terrorists though no activity was reported from the area in recent years.

Army chief General Manoj Pande paid tributes to the fallen braves on Thursday.

General Manoj Pande #COAS and All Ranks of #IndianArmy salute the supreme sacrifice of Col Manpreet Singh, Maj Aashish Dhonchak and DySP Humayun Muzamil Bhat @JmuKmrPolice who laid down their lives as per highest traditions while fighting the terrorists in #Anantnag and express heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Indian Army wrote on X.

The lieutenant governor of J&K Manoj Sinha also offered his condolences. The grateful nation will forever remain indebted to the bravehearts, his office said in a post on X.

Both Singh and Dhonchak were from the Sikh Light Infantry, had earned their spurs in the valley and were decorated with Sena Medal for their heroism in counterterror operations. While Singh was awarded the medal on Independence Day 2021, Dhonchaks bravery was acknowledged only a few weeks ago, on August 15.

The Anantnag encounter has brought into focus how young commanding officers of specialist counterterrorism units are filling four crucial roles --- leading from the front, conducting operations on the ground, providing motivation on the battlefield and keeping the men under their command out of harms way, the officials said.

Read here: Two security officers injured in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag

As India mourns its three braves killed in action, the ongoing encounter with terrorists offers a grim reminder of the everyday perils of a soldiers life, unpredictable combat outcomes and the vulnerability of commanders supervising operations, the officials said.

The Anantnag incident comes at a time when calm was returning to the valley, according to data tabled by the government in Parliament.

Jammu and Kashmir recorded only 30 terrorist-initiated incidents till July 31 this year, compared to 125 last year, 129 in 2021, 126 in 2020, 153 in 2019 and 228 in 2018, the data shows. Similarly, there were 24 encounters/counterterror operations till July 31 this year, compared to 117 last year, 100 in 2021, 118 in 2020, 102 in 2019 and 189 in 2018. While 11 security personnel were killed till July 31 this year, the figure stood at 32, 42, 63,80 and 91 in the previous five years.

To be sure, the Jammu region has witnessed two major attacks this year.

Five soldiers were killed and an officer wounded in a terror ambush in Rajouris Kandi forest area in May, with the attack suspected to have been carried out by the same group of terrorists who had ambushed an army truck and killed five soldiers in Poonch in April.
One of the key decisions taken during the coordination committee meeting of the Oppostion-led INDIA bloc is to boycott television shows moderated by certain news anchors. The authorised sub-committee on media has came up with a list of such news anchors whose shows they have decided to avoid taking part in as panelists. Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav(RJD), TR Baalu (DMK), Congress General Secretary in-charge (Organisation) KC Venugopal and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Raut (Shiv Sena), Mehbooba Mufti Former Chief minister of J&K at the residence of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Chief Sharad Pawar(Hindustan Times)

"The coordination committee authorised the sub-group on media to decide upon the names of the anchors on whose shows none of the INDIA parties will send their representatives," Congress general secretary KC Venugopal said after the meeting on Wednesday.

The list, shared by several member parties of INDIA coalition, contains the names of Republic Network's Arnab Goswami, Aaj Tak's Sudhir Chaudhary, News18 Hindi's Amish Devgan, TimesNow's Navika Kumar, IndiaToday Group's Gaurav Sawant among 14 news anchors.

The INDIA bloc aims to sway public opinion, which is believed to be captured by BJP through mainstream media houses. The Oppositon parties have been dependent on social media and independent journalists to achieve this bid and amplify their message.

"There are some anchors who conduct provocative debates. We'll make a list of them and INDIA alliance partners will stop going to their shows" AAP MP Raghav Chadha said earlier.

The coordination committee meeting also discussed on matters related to seat sharing in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, forming state-level committees to discuss with INDIA parties in states. 12 member parties present at the meeting also decided to hold the coalition's first public meeting in Bhopal.

Ahead of the meeting, the BJP triggered a row over the Opposition's agenda to hold congregations, alleging that they get together to discuss on aboloshing Hinduism.

"The INDIA alliance meeting is taking place to abolish Hindus, which is evident from what a Tamil Nadu minister had said," Union minister Giriraj Singh told reporters referring to DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin's recent remarks on Sanatan Dharma.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Opposition parties from the INDIA coalition hit out at the Bharatiya Janata Party for celebrating the success of the G20 Summit at the party headquarters on the day when security personnel were killed in a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir. The Congress called Prime Minister Narendra Modi insensitive and added that no matter what happens, PM Modi cannot postpone receiving accolades. Prime Minister Narendra Modi received by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President JP Nadda (ANI)

On Wednesday, two Army officers Colonel Manpreet Singh and Major Ashish Dhonack along with deputy superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police Humayun Bhat were killed in a gunfight with terrorists in J&K's Anantnag district.

Congress leader Pawan Khera took to X (formerly Twitter) to criticise the event organised at the BJP headquarters to mark the success of G20 Summit. He said when reports of three security personnel being killed were coming in, a celebration was organised for Badshah.

Sharing video clips of mourning family members of a deceased soldier, the official page of Congress called PM Modi insensitive where in the second half of the clip shows Prime Minister being given a rousing welcome at the BJP headquarters.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi said she expected more sensitivity on the day when security forces fought a fierce fight in Kashmir. This could have been postponed, expected more sensitivity, especially on a day when our security forces have fought a fierce fight with militants in Kashmir, she wrote on X, sharing the video of PM's welcome.

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Manoj Jha also took a dig at the BJP for holding a welcome programme for PM Modi.

On a day when our Jawans were martyred, we were also watching celebrations at the BJP office. The nation was watching both visuals togetherAt the time of Pulwama attack, they had said they got to know about it late... But this time they knew everything since morning. The ruling party and the Prime Minister were celebrating, he said.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
India has demanded a thorough investigation into the death of an Indian-origin student - Jaahnavi Kandula - who was hit and killed by a police vehicle in Seattle, United States in January this year. This comes after reports of a purported video showing a police officer joking and bursting into laughter over the incident. Jaahnavi Kandula was killed on January 23 after she was hit by a patrol car driven by police officer Kevin Dave in Seattle.

The Consulate General of India in San Francisco on Wednesday said that the recent reports including in media of the handling Jaahnavi Kandulas death are deeply troubling.

We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle & Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington DC .. for a thorough investigation & action against those involved in this tragic case. The Consulate & Embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all concerned authorities, the Indian Consulate wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The 23-year-old graduate student was killed on January 23 after she was hit by a patrol car driven by police officer Kevin Dave in Seattle. According to reports, Dave was driving the car at 74 mph (119 kmph) and the student's body was thrown more than 100 feet (30 meters) away.

US cop mocks the incident

A massive outrage broke out after the Seattle Police Department released footage from accused officer Daniel Auderer's body camera on Monday. In the video clip, Auderer - who serves as vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild - can be heard talking about the accident in a call with the guild's president Mike Solan.

He can then be heard saying she is dead before bursting into laughter.

Towards the end of the clip, Auderer can be heard saying, Yeah, just write a check. Eleven thousand dollars. She was 26 anywayShe had limited value, reported news agency ANI.

(With inputs from agencies)
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Thursday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the latter's GHAMANDIA jibe at the opposition I.N.D.I.A bloc. Congress General Secretary In-Charge (Communications) Jairam Ramesh.(ANI / File Photo)

While addressing a gathering in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, PM Modi had hit out at the I.N.D.I.A alliance and called it a Ghamandiya (arrogant) alliance.

Everyone should be alert. By removing Sanatana', these people want to push us thousands of years back, the prime minister had said.

Responding to the PM's attack, Ramesh took to social media platform X. The PM is back to doing what he does bestinsult. He repeated his abuse of INDIA parties as so-called Ghamandia parties. Look, whos talking! The man who uses the occasion of a govt function to abuse the Opposition. Stooping to his level, one could easily say he heads the GA-NDA coalitionGautam Adanis NDA, he posted.



The prime minister's remark had come in wake of the controversy surrounding the controversial statement by I.N.D.I.A member DMK's Udhayanidhi Stalin on .Sanatana Dharma.



A few things cannot be opposed, that should be abolished only. We can't oppose dengue, mosquitoes, malaria, or corona. We have to eradicate this, that's how we have to eradicate Sanatana. Rather opposing Sanatana it should be eradicated", the Tamil Nadu minister had said at an event in Chennai, sparking a massive political slugfest.



While Udhayanidhi has been defiant over his remark, his father and chief minister MK Stalin defended his son amid the controversy. While the Prime Minister remains silent on everyday issues impacting the common man, his cabinet focuses on #SanatanaDharma by spreading false narratives and fuelling it with support from a few media outlets, Stalin wrote on X on Wednesday.



I urge our DMK leaders and cadre not to react to such diversion tactics and to continue posing questions to the BJP on #ManipurViolence, #AdaniHindenburg, a whopping 7.50 lakh crore rupees flagged in the #CAGreport, and other pressing issues, along with highlighting 9-year failures of the BJP We will keep on posing questions, and so will #INDIA, the DMK chief added.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Bengaluru: Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday announced that the state government has filed a petition in the Supreme Court against the directions of the Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee (CWRC), seeking a stay on the directions. The directions mandated Karnataka to release 5,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu for an additional 15 days, starting from Thursday. The prevailing situation of water crisis in Karnataka is reportedly due to a deficit in rainfall this season. (HT Archives)

Our deputy chief minister, DK Shivakumar, is already in New Delhi, holding meetings with the legal team. We have also submitted a petition to the Supreme Court, he informed reporters in Bengaluru.

Expressing the states inability to comply with the CWMAs (Cauvery Water Management Authority) direction, the chief minister stated that he had written a letter to the Union minister for water resources, Gajendra Singh Shekawat. In the letter, he explained the prevailing situation of water crisis in Karnataka due to a deficit in rainfall this season.

Chief minister Siddaramaiah, in a letter to Union Jal Shakti minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, said that practical implementation of the directive would endanger the interests of farmers for irrigation, as well as the well-being of humans and livestock depending on the Cauvery river system for drinking water.

Highlighting the states compliance with previous directions issued by CWMA/CWRC, he added, It is important to note that the majority of taluks in the Cauvery basin in Karnataka are grappling with severe drought conditions, owing to acute water stress caused by the failure of the southwest monsoon.

The chief minister also urged the Union minister to review the decision regarding the CWMA directive, taking into consideration the water requirements of the state. He brought to the ministers attention that the Mettur reservoir in Tamil Nadu has a live storage of 24.233 thousand million cubic(tmc) feet of water, which is sufficient to meet Tamil Nadus water needs.

He further informed the minister that Karnataka needs approximately 70 tmc feet of water to save its standing crops, 33 tmc feet for its drinking water needs, and an additional 3 tmc feet of water for industrial purposes. However, the state currently has only 53 tmc feet of water in its reservoirs in the Cauvery basin.

Regarding the shortage of rainfall, which was as high as 58.93% when considering the distress in the catchment up to Biligundlu, he noted, This has increased from 53.32% on August 24 to 58.93% on September 10a span of 17 days. The IMD [India Meteorological Department] forecast for the next two weeks paints a grim picture, indicating that the situation in the state will not improve.

In his letter to the Union minister, Siddaramaiah brought to his attention that Tamil Nadu used 100 tmc feet of water for 92 days, from June to September this year. This amount exceeds the states water usage in drought-hit years such as 1987-88, 2002-03, 2012-13, 2016-17, and 2017-18. He pointed out, Despite Karnataka having less water storage in its reservoirs in the Cauvery basin, Tamil Nadu has been cultivating paddy in vast areas.

Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced its intention to protest against the government if it continues to release water to Tamil Nadu. Former chief minister Basavaraj Bommai argued that there is a surplus of water in Tamil Nadu dams, and the government should halt water release.

The government is releasing water without considering the matter seriously. Consequently, farmers along the Cauvery river banks and residents of Bengaluru are facing problems, he stated. He advocated for a legal campaign and urged the government to engage with the Tamil Nadu government. However, Bommai noted that the chief minister is reluctant to communicate with Tamil Nadu chief minister Stalin. The government should stand firm in its decision of not to release water. We will oppose the government if water continues to be released, he added.

In response to the BJPs call for protest, Siddaramaiah stated, We have convened an all-party meeting and explained the situation to them, including the BJP leader. They have expressed their support as well.
Authorities in Kerala scrambled to contain the spread of the Nipah virus on Thursday, drawing up a list of around 950 people who could have been exposed to the disease, setting up containment zones, and shutting down all educational institutes in Kozhikode district in a bid to isolate the deadly pathogen that attacks the brain and is often fatal. A patient being brought to an isolation ward in Kozhikode. (PTI)

At least five people tested positive for the virus and two have died  the first on August 30 and the second on September 11. Eleven samples collected by the authorities on Wednesday came back negative for the virus on Thursday, offering some hope of containment. On Thursday, the administration collected another 15 samples from the list of people who were in contact with the five people and sent them for testing to NIV Pune. Of this, at least two people  both health care workers  were symptomatic, said the states health department.

State health minister Veena George said the government held a high-level meeting on Thursday morning and the principal secretary met officials of the Union government. Experts from three organisations  National Centre for Disease Control, RML Hospital, Delhi, and NIMHANS  arrived in the state to help in treatment and surveillance.

We have decided to take samples of all the persons who are in the high-risk contact list of the first person, who died on August 30, said George. The full contact list currently has 950 names, out of which 213 are in the high-risk category, said state health officials. A total of 287 people on the contact list are healthcare workers, they said.

The state government said that it will take body fluid samples of all of those who are in the high-risk contact list linked to the first Nipah victim, a 47-year-old who died on August 30.

George said the decision was taken at a meeting with officials of the Union government, who are visiting the Nipah-affected nine wards in two panchayats in Kozhikode district.

The Nipah virus (NiV) is a highly pathogenic virus that causes fatal encephalitis  swelling of the brain  and acute respiratory distress in humans.The virus is transmitted to humans by direct contact with the respiratory secretions or body fluids of infected animals, such as bats and pigs, or by consumption of contaminated fruits or palm sap. Both animal-to-human and human-to-human transmission have been documented in several research papers.

India has witnessed at least five outbreaks since 2001, from West Bengal, and Kerala, with the latest being the fifth. The first was in Siliguri, West Bengal; the other four have been in Kerala.

On Thursday, health workers visited 5,161 homes across affected panchayats as part of a survey and found 51 individuals had symptoms of fever, said district medical officer Dr KK Rajaram. They do not have contact with the Nipah infected, but they have been told to remain in isolation, he said.

The district administration tightened restrictions in Kozhikode, barring entry to public places such as beaches and parks. Public meetings and entry to temples in large groups were banned. Visitors will not be allowed in hospitals and only one person will be allowed to accompany a patient. The tapping and sale of toddy was stopped until further notice.

The public was asked to desist from visiting areas with a large concentration of bats and pigs. Schools and other educational institutions were shut on Saturday as well.

Restrictions were particularly tight in nine panchayats in Kozhikode district that were turned into containment zones, with hundreds of Asha (accredited social health activist) workers visiting homes of residents every day, conducting medical check-ups , monitoring people, and collecting data. The epicentres of the outbreak are the Kallad ward in Maruthonkara panchayat and Mangalad ward in Ayancheri panchayat. The 47-year-old man who died on August 30 was a resident of Maruthonkara, the 40-year-old who passed away on September 11 lived in Ayancheri.

On Thursday, the only available experimental treatment  monoclonal antibody  was delivered to the state by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). George said that the stability of the antiviral was discussed with a central expert committee. Further steps or course of action would be decided by the expert committee, she said.

The m102.4 monoclonal antibody, an experimental therapeutic, was imported for the treatment of infected patients on compassionate grounds during the 2018 Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode. At the time, it was not used because the outbreak had ebbed by the time it arrived. The standard operating procedures and protocols for its use were prepared back then with the support of ICMR, she said.

In addition, ICMRs National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune also sent its mobile BSL-3 laboratory  the first biosafety level-3 containment mobile lab of South Asia  to Kozhikode to test samples.

A fully-equipped mobile virology testing laboratory was sent by the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) to the district to strengthen the testing and detection of the virus. RGCB Director Prof Chandrabhas Narayana said the services of a group of six experts was made available in the mobile unit, which can give results within six hours of receiving samples.

George said there were 14 persons in isolation without any epidemiological link with the people who died. The minister also said that the vitals of the nine-year-old son of the first Nipah victim, who is being treated for the disease, are stable.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A pall of gloom descended on villages in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab on Thursday as families and relatives mourned the killings of two decorated army officers and a Jammu and Kashmir police officer during an encounter with terrorists in Anantnag district a day earlier. J&K DSP Humayun Muzamil Bhats father and retired IGP, Ghulam Hassan Bhat, lays a wreath on his sons coffin in Srinagar on Wednesday. (PTI)

In Punjabs Mohali district, thousands of mourners gathered at Bharaunjian village to mourn the death of Colonel Manpreet Singh, who was the commanding officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) that was part of the counter-insurgency operation in Anantnag when the gunbattle with the terrorists erupted on Wednesday.

The Colonels mortal remains are expected to arrive in Chandigarh on Friday morning and the final rites are likely to take place in the afternoon.

Those who turned up at the army officers house to express grief with the family said the army should give a befitting reply to the terrorists.

The defence and home ministers must avenge the loss of our soldiers. The forces must eliminate the terrorists, the colonels uncle, Harmail Singh, said.

Villagers said Colonel Singhs wife, a school teacher in Panchkula district, was given the news of her husbands death on Thursday morning, after being told on Wednesday that he was seriously injured. He has also left behind a two-year-old daughter and a six-year-old son.

Hartej Singh, another uncle of the Colonel, said 18-20 members of their family had retired and two of them continue to serve the army.

Similar scenes were witnessed in Binjhol village in Panipat as local residents waited for the mortal remains of Major Aashish Dhonchak, also from the 19 RR battalion.

I have lost everything. This proxy war (with Pakistan) has ruined our world. Now, I look towards the almighty to give us the strength to move on, Dhonchaks father Lal Chand said.

His family said they were living in a rented accommodation and were set to move to a new house, in Panipat, on his birthday on October 23.

Dhonchaks mother, Kamla, said she will receive her sons mortal remains with a brave heart as he had made a supreme sacrifice for the country. The Major is survived by his wife and a four-year-old daughter.

Everyone knows that Pakistan has waged a proxy war. Our Army should give a befitting reply once and for all, so that no mother has to mourn the loss of her son, no sister loses her brother again in this manner, no wife loses her husband and no child loses its father, an elderly man who lives in Dhonchaks neighbourhood said.

Panipat deputy commissioner Virender Dahiya said mortal remains are expected to arrive on Friday morning.

The last rites of J&K deputy superintendent of police (DSP) Humayun Muzamil Bhat, who was recently posted in Anantnag and was also killed in Wednesdays encounter, were performed on Wednesday evening.

Bhats father, Ghulam Hassan Bhat, a former inspector general of police, was held by a police officer as he showered flowers on his sons coffin during the last rites at Srinagar district police lines.

J&K lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha expressed his grief over the death of the three officers in the encounter and also paid tributes to the DSP.

Paid tributes to JKPs DySP Humayun Bhat, who laid down his life in an anti-terror operation in Anantnag. I salute the indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice of Col Manpreet Singh & Major Ashish Dhonack. Entire nation stands firmly with their families in this hour of grief, his office posted on X, formerly Twitter.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee delighted in sharing videos of herself engaging in a morning jog and playing tunes on a harmonium during her visit to Madrid in Spain. Her 12-day trip to the UAE and Spain, which commenced on Tuesday and will conclude on September 23, is focused on attracting foreign investment to the state. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee in Madrid, Spain on Thursday. (Instagram/mamataofficia)

In one of her Instagram posts, Mamata wrote, A nice jog can energise you for the day ahead. Stay fit, stay healthy everyone! She shared a video of her jogging through the streets of Madrid. Additionally, she showcased her musical talents by playing the motivational song Honge Kaamiyaab on a musical instrument, emphasising the timeless nature of music. Sharing the video of her playing the tune, Banerjee wrote, Music is forever; music should grow and mature with you, following you right on up until you die.

The official Twitter handle of the All India Trinamool Congress (AITMC) also shared a video offering a glimpse of Mamata Banerjee's Thursday morning in Madrid.

Mamata's visit to UAE, Spain

During her trip, Mamata Banerjee had a meeting with Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe at Dubai International Airport on Wednesday.

In their conversation, Banerjee extended an invitation to President Wickremesinghe to attend the Bengal Global Business Summit in Kolkata. She described the interaction with the Sri Lankan President as "pleasant" and mentioned that Wickremesinghe also invited her to visit Sri Lanka. In a video shared by PTI, Wickremesinghe asked whether she would lead the opposition alliance (INDIA), Banerjee responded with, Oh my god! and added, It depends on the people.

Following her stop in Dubai, the West Bengal chief minister arrived in Madrid on Wednesday night to participate in business summits and other meetings for three days. Subsequently, she will travel to Barcelona for further business engagements for a couple of days. The team will then return to Dubai for additional business meetings before heading back to Kolkata on September 23.

The visit comes ahead of the 7th Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS), scheduled to take place on November 21-22 in Kolkata.

Last week, the Centre granted the necessary approvals for West Bengal CM's visits to Spain and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The state's chief secretary, HK Dwivedi, is accompanying her on this trip.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
NEW DELHI: Elected representatives convicted of offences involving moral turpitude should be disqualified from contesting elections for life, not just six years at present, senior advocate Vijay Hansaria has told the Supreme Court in his report, the 19th since his appointment as amicus curiae (friend of court) by the top court in the matter relating to criminal cases against lawmakers. The Supreme Court has been hearing the petition against Section 8 of The Representation of the People Act 1951 relating to disqualification of convicted MP/MLAs for six years (ANI)

The parliamentarians and the legislators represent the sovereign will of the people and once found to have committed an offence involving moral turpitude, are liable to be permanently disqualified from holding the said office, Hansari said in his report which will come up before a bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud.

Hansaria pointed to rules relating to civil servants which provide for the dismissal of employees convicted of any offence involving moral turpitude and the laws relating to statutory bodies such as the Central Vigilance Commission and human rights commissions which explicitly disqualify any person convicted of such offences from being appointed to the top positions.

If statutory authorities cannot comprise convicted persons, it is manifestly arbitrary that such convicted persons can occupy the supreme legislative bodies after the expiry of a certain period of conviction. The lawmakers are required to be much more sacrosanct and inviolable than the persons holding office under such law, Hansarias report reasoned.

There is no nexus that a person can make law to disqualify another person from holding a statutory office, but the person making the law would incur the disqualification only for a limited period, the report filed through advocate Sneha Kalita said.

Hansaria was appointed as amicus curiae in the matter relating to the petition filed by Ashwini Upadhyay, a Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party leader, who challenged the constitutional validity of Section 8 of The Representation of People Act, 1951, which disqualifies convicted legislators from contesting elections for six years from their release .

Hansarias report concurred, arguing that allowing convicted lawmakers to contest elections after six years was manifestly arbitrary and violative of Article 14 of the Constitution which guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws.

The report also underlined the need for expeditious disposal of trials pending against MLAs/MPs and said there were 5,175 cases pending across various trial courts in the country. Of these, 2,116 cases had been pending for more than five years with the largest cases being reported from Uttar Pradesh (1,377), followed by Bihar (546) and Maharashtra (482).

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Ethic clashes in Manipur have claimed 175 lives over four months and at least 96 bodies are still lying unclaimed, the Manipur Police said on Thursday, giving data of the number of injuries and arson cases, and adding that only around a quarter of the arms stolen by mobs during the violence has been recovered. Manipur has been in the throes of clashes since May 3, killing at least 168 people. (REUTERS)(HT_PRINT)

In a hurriedly called press conference in Imphal, Inspector General of Police (AP/Operations) IK Muivah accompanied by IGPs Jayantakumar (Administration), Nishit Kumar Ujjawal (Intelligence) besides IGP (Zone II) K Kabib read out statistics that revised the death toll upwards and painted a grim picture of the violence that has engulfed the northeastern state since May 3.

Read here: Cop shot dead, two others injured in Manipurs Churachandpur

IPG Muivah said that 175 people have died, 1,118 sustained injuries and 32 are missing. At least 5,172 cases of arson  including 4,786 houses and 386 religious places  were reported in these four months, he said.

175 people have died, 1,118 sustained injuries and 33 are missing. At least 5,172 cases of arson -- including 4,786 houses and 386 religious places (254 churches and 132 temples)  were reported in these four months, said Muivah.

A total of 5,668 arms were lost from the state armoury since the beginning of the violence. Of this, forces have recovered 1,329. Another 15,050 ammunition and 400 bombs were recovered, he added.

Muivah said security forces destroyed as many as 360 illegal bunkers in the state and that barricades set up between Phougakchao Ikhai and Kangvai  covering about one kilometre stretch along the Imphal-Churachandpur road  were also removed on Thursday.

The barricades serve as a boundary of a buffer zone, manned by security forces, to ensure that people from the warring Meitei and Kuki communities do not cross over and engage in violence. On September 6, thousands of men and women had defied prohibitory orders to push for the removal of the barricades.

The announcements came after a particularly violent couple of weeks, with attacks by armed miscreants claiming at least seven lives.

The police along with central armed police forces (CAPFs) and the army are trying to bring some form of normalcy and peace, said Muivah.

Regarding the inflow of supplies, the police officers said that security convoys were running smoothly on National Highway 37 between Imphal and Jiribam. The volume of the goods in transit also increased with the opening of the National Highway 2 from Imphal in Manipur to Dimapur in Nagaland from Thursday.

The police control room also shared a press note on Thursday evening, confirming the movement of 315 vehicles along National Highway 37, 269 vehicles to Imphal and 281 from Imphal along the highway with essential items.

On Thursday, the authorities also extended curfew relaxations for all areas in Imphal East and Imphal West districts from 5 am to 9 pm, against the usual timing of 5am to 6 pm.

Read here: Manipur cop killed in fresh flare-up

Clashes in Manipur first broke out on May 3 in Churachandpur town after tribal groups called for protests against a proposed tweak to the states reservation matrix, granting scheduled tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community. Violence quickly engulfed the state where ethnic fault lines run deep, displacing tens of thousands of people who fled burning homes and neighbourhoods into jungles, often across state borders. The clashes have virtually partitioned the state between the dominant Meitei community that lives in the plains and constitutes 53% of the states population, and the tribal Kuki group, which lives in the hill districts and makes up 16% of the state.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor (IMEC) can be labelled as a green and digital bridge connecting continents and civilizations, says Amitabh Kant, Indias G20 Sherpa. The corridor is designed to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, promote economic cohesion, create jobs and cut greenhouse gas emissions, he says in this interview. Excerpts: G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant. (ANI)(HT_PRINT)

What do you think have been the biggest wins for India as far as G20 Summit was concerned?

Gaining consensus on the geopolitical paragraphs is a big gain for India diplomatically. This is a testament to our G20 leadership and our growing global stature. We have also taken to the world, Indias development story. Our success in driving socio-economic transformation was crucial in building full consensus within the G20.

Ideas such as Indias new Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) initiative, promoting sustainable lifestyles, have found global acceptance. Millets have been recognized as a superfood globally, beneficial for both the health of individuals and also the planet. Through digital public infrastructure (DPI) we have leveraged technology to narrow inequalities and improve government service delivery. We have shifted the narrative from development of women to development led by women.

Indias imprint has also been left on some crucial outcomes of G20 this year, across a range of sectors. The Deccan High-level Principles on Food Security and Nutrition; Chennai High-level Principles for Blue/Ocean Economy; Goa Roadmap for Tourism; Gandhinagar Implementation Roadmap for Land Restoration and Jaipur Call for Action to enhance access for MSMEs to gain information are pertinent examples.

What do you think is the true potential of the India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor (IMEC)?

IMEC, a rail and shipping corridor that will connect India to Europe through West Asia, has the potential to have a long term impact to deepen physical connectivity, unlock tremendous commercial opportunities, set new standards in infrastructure financing and development, and reshape global trading routes.

So, the possibilities are enormous.

Yes. The IMEC is also likely to have far reaching global economic implications. The eight IMEC signatories account for about half the worlds economy and 40% of the population. The initiatives comprehensive approach encompasses connecting key commercial hubs, supporting the development and export of clean energy, expanding energy grids and telecommunication networks, promoting clean energy technologies and enhancing Internet access for communities.

What are some of the other objectives with regard to the economic corridor?

The project can be labelled as a green and digital bridge connecting continents and civilizations, designed to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, promote economic cohesion, create general jobs and cut greenhouse gas emissions. IMEC being closely associated to Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII), can potentially mobilise significant parts of the $600 billion pledged for PGII for critical infrastructure development.

Going forward what are the milestones that you hope to achieve as G20 Sherpa? What are the kind of follow-up moves required to ensure these decisions taken at the Summit come to fruition?

It is important to see the recommendations in the New Delhi Leaders Declaration (NDLD) are implemented in G20 countries and the Prime Minister is cognizant of the same. As he said in his closing remarks, Indias Presidency has 2.5 months remaining. At the end of November, the Prime Minister has suggested a virtual session of G20 leaders, to take stock of the NDLD and how implementation of the recommendations can be accelerated. This stocktaking will no doubt be a very important milestone in our Presidency. It will take on added significance, as this virtual meeting will take place before COP 28 to be held in the UAE.

At the same time, this virtual session will also be held after the 2023 SDG Summit, where global leaders will take stock of progress on the SDGs. This virtual session will no doubt play a key role in driving global progress towards our collective SDG and climate goals.

What is your sense of Indias position in the world, now that the Summit has been labelled a success?

The success of our Presidency will only further solidify Indias standing in the world. We are already the fastest growing large economy. We are the youngest country in the world. We are also the most innovative economies today, with the third largest startup ecosystem in the world. We are integrating ourselves in the global value chains (GVCs). Our Presidency has been bolstered by our success in driving inclusive and sustainable growth.

Early in our Presidency, we had made a promise to the Global South  that their voice and concerns would be echoed during Indias Presidency. And we have delivered exactly that. The deal was clinched owing to the Prime Ministers credibility and emerging markets working together to bring G20 together and speak in one voice.

With the NDLD, the strongest and most ambitious in the history of G20, India has firmly established itself as a global force to be reckoned with.
Amid the protests over the arrest of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu, the Additional DG of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Sanjay on Wednesday said that the money trail is very clear in the multi-crore skill development scam. TDP president and former chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu

According to the Andhra CID, it is a very clear case of government funds transferred and the project of purpose never happened.

"In this case, a government corporation was formed and it was exclusively formed for this purpose of skill development and the proposal was moved by some private individuals...The money trail is very clearly seen," the additional DG of CID told news agency ANI.

He added, You see the role of the ED also in this when they moved in and arrested a few people. So this is a very clear case of government money being transferred and the project itself never happened... How the money went into shell companies and all, is again part of the investigation. So further investigation will reveal the exact end-to-end tie-ups.

The TDP chief was sent to judicial custody on September 9 for 14 days by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) court in Vijayawada in connection with an alleged skill development corporation scam.

On Wednesday, the Andhra Pradesh high court deferred a plea by Naidu seeking to quash the case filed against him. However, the court ordered that the CID cannot take Naidus custody until September 18.

What is the multi-crore skill development scam?

The multi-crore skill development scam case pertains to the establishment of clusters of Centers of Excellence (CoEs) in Andhra Pradesh, with a total estimated project value of 3,300 crore during the previous TDP regime in the state.

According to the CID, the preliminary investigation uncovered serious irregularities such as the state government providing an advance of 271 crores before any expenditure by private entities, initiating the project without following the standard tendering process, and the funds intended for the project being funneled into shell companies, including Allied Computers, Skillers India Pvt Ltd, Knowledge Podium, Cadence Partners, and ETA Greens.

The investigation followed notices issued to Arja Srikanth, a former Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) officer who was the CEO of APSSDC in 2016.

Meanwhile, TDP workers held protests against the arrest of Chandrababu Naidu in several districts of the state including Tirupati and West Godavari. On Wednesday, a group of techies led by the TDP's digital wing also staged a protest in Hyderabad with holding placards that read I am with CBN.

(With inputs from agencies)
In line with the new tradition of the tri-services organising their flagship ceremonial events outside the national capital, Navy Day celebrations this year will be held at the iconic Sindhudurg Fort off the Maharashtra coast, built by Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century, officials aware of the matter said on Thursday. The Sindhudurg Fort off the Maharashtra coast was built in the 1660s by Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. (HT Archives)

India celebrates Navy Day on December 4 to commemorate the Indian Navys attack on the Karachi harbour during the 1971 war against Pakistan.

Read here: Navy brass to discuss indigenisation, tri-services synergy

Navy Day was celebrated in Visakhapatnam last year, the first time it was taken outside New Delhi. The Indian Army and the Indian Air Force organised their annual parades in Bengaluru and Chandigarh last year. This years Air Force Day parade will be held at Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh on October 8.

Navy Day was celebrated on the east coast last year. This year, the celebrations will be organised on the west coast. The venue has been chosen carefully and the Sindhudurg Fort meets the navys requirements to conduct an operational demonstration of its frontline assets. It also has rich maritime history, said one of the officials cited above, asking not to be named.

The Sindhudurg Fort was built in the 1660s.

Last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the navys new ensign at the commissioning ceremony of aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, with the flag drawing inspiration from the seal of the Maratha king, dropping the Cross of St George. The PM called it getting rid of the burden of a colonial past.

Key conferences of the armed forces, including the Combined Commanders Conference, have also been held outside New Delhi after the NDA government came to power nine years ago.

On April 1, Modi assessed the operational readiness of the armed forces in the backdrop of the lingering border row with China, carried out a security review, and asked the military to stay prepared for new and emerging threats at the Combined Commanders Conference held in Bhopal.

Before that, on March 6, Union defence minister Rajnath Singh addressed the inaugural session of a top navy meeting aboard Indias first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, the move bringing into greater focus the countrys efforts towards achieving self-reliance in the defence manufacturing sector.

The armed forces have sharpened their focus not only on indigenisation of military hardware but also of customs.

The call for doing away with colonial customs and adopting Indian ways in the armed forces was made by the prime minister in March 2021 during the Combined Commanders Conference at Kevadia in Gujarat when he asked the three services to rid themselves of legacy systems and practices that are no longer relevant.

He had then underlined the importance of enhancing indigenisation in the national security system, not just in sourcing equipment and weapons but also in doctrines, procedures and customs.

In his 2022 Independence Day speech, Modi spoke of the panch pran, or five pledges, for India to become a developed country by its 100th year of independence, one of those being to uproot all signs of colonial slavery from our mindset and habits.

In line with the broader directions from the PM, the navy decided in July that its personnel will no longer carry ceremonial batons. Senior officers in command roles, commanding officers of warships, naval bases and other establishments, and provost personnel responsible for policing, vigilance and enforcement of discipline used to carry batons. The navy said the symbolism of power portrayed by holding such batons was a colonial legacy.

Smart traditional Indian wear may also soon be allowed in naval officers messes, said a second official.

Read here: Navy unveils new uniform items at commanders meet

The defence ministry has also begun a drive to rename British-era cantonments as military stations. It has shared broad modalities with state governments for a proposed separation of civilian areas in 58 cantonments across the country, with the move aimed at bringing uniformity in municipal laws governing these areas and adjoining municipal pockets.

Yol in Himachal Pradesh was the first cantonment to shed the colonial tag and be renamed as a military station in April 2023. That was the first step in the drive to merge civilian areas in cantonments, created during the British era, with municipal corporations and municipalities, and designate them as military stations.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
In the wake of the Nipah outbreak in this north Kerala district, all educational institutions here will remain closed on Thursday and Friday. Kozhikode District Collector A Geetha announced this in a Facebook post and said educational institutions can arrange online classes on the two days for students. Health workers at Nipah virus isolation centre in Kozhikode Medical College

However, there will be no change in university exams schedule, she added.

A 24-year old health worker became Kerala's fifth confirmed Nipah case on Wednesday since its recent outbreak.

Meanwhile, a 24-hour control room was set up in the neighbouring district of Wayanad following the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode

The Wayanad district administration also constituted 15 core committees to lead the prevention and surveillance activities and effectively deal with emergency situations.

The virus strain seen in the state was the Bangladesh variant that spreads from human to human and has a high mortality rate, though it is less infectious, the government said.

The condition of all 76 people who are in the high-risk contact category remains stable, State Health Minister Veena George had said.

The government had also said that 13 others who have mild symptoms are now being monitored in the hospital, and only a 9-year old child - among those infected - is in the Intensive Care Unit.

It had said that monoclonal antibodies have been ordered from ICMR to treat the child. It is the only available anti-viral treatment for Nipah virus infection, though it has not been clinically proven yet.

A review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan was also held in the wake of the outbreak of the brain-damaging virus.

The high-level meeting chaired by the CM analysed the situation thoroughly and "we have come to the conclusion that all the possible prevention measures are in place and there is no need to panic", George had said.

The minister had also said the WHO and ICMR studies had found out that the entire state of Kerala is prone to getting such infections, not just Kozhikode.

People living in forest areas have to take the highest precautions, George had said, and added that the latest case of the Nipah virus originated within five kilometres of a jungle area.

Four more wards - three in Villyapally panchayat and one in Purameri panchayat- in Kozhikode district had been declared as containment zones yesterday in addition to those announced on Tuesday.

Considering the serious nature of the disease, the Kozhikode administration had on Tuesday declared seven village panchayats-Atanchery, Maruthonkara, Tiruvallur, Kuttiyadi, Kayakkodi, Villyapalli, and Kavilumpara- as containment zones.
A combination of familiarity with symptoms, adherence to protocols laid down during previous outbreaks and effective contact tracing measures helped officials in Kerala detect cases of Nipah virus in time, experts said on Thursday, a day after a 24-year-old health worker tested positive taking the total number of cases to five. A patient being admitted to a Nipah isolation ward at the medical college in Kozhikode (PTI)

It began on August 30, when a 47-year-old man died at a private hospital in Kozhikode with symptoms including fever that gradually turned into pneumonia.

On September 10, four of his relatives  his son (9), daughter, brother-in-law (24), and the brother-in-laws son, were rushed to the Aster MIMS hospital in Kozhikode with fever.

The mans son soon suffered shortness of breath and seizures. Normal fever tests and other respiratory tests returned negative. Thats when we suspected that this was something different, Dr Anoop Kumar AS, director of critical care medicine at the Aster hospital, said.

Doctors treating the nine-year-old boyfound that his father had also experienced symptoms like disorientation before his death, Dr Kumar, who was involved in management of the virus during the last outbreak in 2018, said.

On September 11, another man, 40, was admitted to the hospital with symptoms of pneumonia which led to his death within minutes, Dr Kumar said.

Dr Kumars experience from 2018 turned out to be instrumental in alerting authorities.

The unusual symptoms were similar to those of Nipah, as we learnt in the past outbreak, and that is why I immediately alerted the authorities, he said.

Kozhikode district medical officer Dr KK Rajaram added that unlike the 2018 outbreak, patients were also showing respiratory distress.

Nipah is mainly a zoonotic disease  when a pathogen jumps from a non-human host to humans  with some documented cases of transmission among humans.

In humans, at the start (5-14 days after exposure) it manifests with initial symptoms of headache and fever. Some patients also show respiratory illness during the early phases, according to a factsheet on the viral disease by CDC. It is followed by neurological symptoms like drowsiness, disorientation, confusion and epilepsy. These symptoms can progress to coma within 24-48 hours, eventually causing death by encephalitis  swelling of the brain  and acute respiratory distress syndrome.

About the 40-year-old, health officials said that he displayed symptoms like vomiting and disorientation at previous hospitals and clinics.

He had displayed symptoms like vomiting, fits and disorientation which was also seen in other Nipah-positive patients. The deterioration of his condition was also quick. He died within 4-5 days of first complaining of fever. After his death, doctors conducted detailed postmortem studies whose results indicated the presence of the virus, Dr Rajaram said.

Samples of the 40-year-old as well as the family members of the 47-year-old were sent to National Institute of Virology lab in Pune on September 11.

In the meantime, officials began efforts to find a common point of contact between the two men as they were not related and hailed from different areas. The 47-year-old man who died on August 30 was a resident of Maruthonkara, the 40-year-old who died on September 11 lived in Ayancheri.

Through questioning of their family members, we found that they were both at a private hospital at the same time. The 40-year-old was accompanying his ailing father-in-law at the hospital where the 47-year-old was treated. They were likely in the same ward or room. That was the epidemiological point of contact, said Dr Rajaram.

By the evening of September 12, three of the five samples sent from Kerala to the Pune lab came back positive for Nipah, confirming the suspicions of doctors and health officials.

While the samples of the 40-year-old, the son and brother-in-law of the 47-year-old returned positive, it was assumed that the 47-year-old was the index case in the outbreakand likely spread the infection to others.

His samples were never tested.

Frantic contact tracing measures were then afoot to locate all those who might have come in contact with the two patients who died, as well as the three currently under treatment.

The contact list, consisting of both high-risk and low-risk individuals, currently has 787 names and is likely to get bigger.

Since the incubation period of the virus is 6-14 days extending up to 20 days, we will have to keep a close watch on the contacts for some time. Symptomatic high-risk contacts have been shifted to the Medical College hospital, said Dr Rajaram.

Right now, its a 24-hour operation. We had intensified our measures right after the second death. We already have a good system in place for surveillance and contact tracing. There are 16 committees formed to look at various aspects of the outbreak. Just today, our local health workers visited nearly 4800 homes in the district as part of surveillance, said the top district health officer.

Officials said that all three active cases are under treatment at private hospitals, including the 24-year-old male nurse who tested positive on September 13.

While he is currently asymptomatic, a nine-year-old boy, who tested positive on September 12 in Kozhikode, remains on a ventilator support with his condition showing neither improvement nor deterioration.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Key members of the INDIA bloc criticised the not-exhaustive agenda of next weeks five-day special session of the Parliament, announced Wednesday night, calling it a disappointment and a diversion tactic. The central government has called a special session of Parliament from September 18 to 22 (HT photo)

The governments announcement comes amid intense speculation on the special sessions agenda, which is scheduled to be held from 18-22 September and the agenda for which has been largely kept under wraps.

The agenda list announced Wednesday night should not be considered exhaustive, the government said in a bulletin.

Congress general secretary K.C.Venugopal questioned why listed agenda did not mention any issue that Sonia Gandhi, Congress parliamentary party (CPP) chairperson, flagged in a letter she wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote last week, adding the government released it to solely manage headlines.

The Special Session of Parliament agenda announced thus far does not speak of a single issue of public importance raised by CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji in her letter to PM Modi. Instead, they have chosen headline management. 140 crore Indians are sorely disappointed looking at this agenda, Venugopal said in a post via X (formerly Twitter).

On a discussion on Indias parliamentary journey of 75 years, listed as the main agenda in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha bulletin for the special session, Venugopal said the same topic was also taken up in 2021.

In 2021, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla conducted a series of events to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Parliament. Todays announcement tells us the Special Session of Parliament will have discussions for the same reason. Is the government so bereft of ideas that they are celebrating the same occasion twice in 3 years? Or is this yet another diversionary tactic? Venugopal asked.

Also Read: Parliamentary affairs minister responds to Sonia Gandhis letter to PM Modi

Trinamool Congress MP Derek O Brien on Thursday said the government could add some business at the last minute.

The agenda of the Special Parliament Session has still not been announced, and I say this because in the list of businesses, they have written a very sinister line there saying this is not the exhaustive list of businesses. They will be up to dirty tricks, and they can add some business last minute, Derek said.

In a post via X, he further added, The agenda has a caveat* not to be taken as exhaustive. Dirty tricks ?

The parliament bulletin listed tentative legislative business expected to be taken up during the upcoming session including the controversial bill that seeks to exclude the Chief Justice of India (CJI) from the panel to appoint the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs).

The Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023, The Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023, The Post Office Bill, 2023, and The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023 will be taken up during the upcoming session.

Reacting to the publicised agenda, Rashtriya Janata Dal MP Manoj Jha on Thursday said if the CEC and EC appointment bill was passed, then democracy would be a thing of the past.

If this bill passes then we will read in coming years, Once upon a time there was democracy in India. Does this committee have any meaning?... Already the works of the Election Commission are a subject of concern. After this, we would not be able to even go and complain to them... The government should think before bringing this dishonest bill so brazenly, agency reports quoted Jha as saying.

The letter by Sonia (Gandhi) ji had an impact and that is why they have released an agenda. By looking at the agenda it can be said, what is there in this agenda that couldnt have waited till the Winter session? There is something that hasnt been shared, it is being kept secret...We will oppose the CEC bill, Congress leader Pawan Khera said, according to agency reports.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A private jet with eight people onboard veered off the runway at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International airport followed by a crash on Thursday while landing amid heavy rain. According to the airport authority, eight people, including a crew member, have suffered injuries and were taken to nearest hospital. Officials gather around a damaged aircraft after it veered off the runway with six passengers and two crew members on board at the Mumbai airport(PTI)

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said the aircraft skidded off the runaway due to poor visibility following heavy rain.

A video clip has been released which shows murky grey skies filled the airspace above the airport and the aircraft lying wrecked on the sidelines of the runway. Fire engines and airport rescue team could also be seen present at the spot.

What we know so far:

The aircraft was a mid-size business jet named Learjet 45 VT-DBL operated by VSR Ventures. It was carrying the passengers from Vishakhapatnam to Mumbai. The incident took place at around 5:02 pm on Thursday. The aircraft was carrying eight people including five passengers, one from Denmark, and two crew pilots. Among the passengers  Dhruv Kotak, Lars Sorensen, KK Krishnadas, Aakarsh Sethi, Arul Sali and a crew member Kamakshi S were onboard the aircraft, which was being operated by pilots Sunil Bhat and Neil Diwan. A total of five passengers, both pilots and one crew member have sustained injuries and are being treated at Criticare Asia Hospital in Andheri East. Medical officials said the flyers are in a state of shock. According to officials, co-pilot Neil Diwan sustained major injuries and he will undergo an urgent surgery. Pilot in command Bhat suffered injuries on his forehead, upper lip along with multiple abraisons over right leg and fracture of vertebra. Kamakshi S, the crew, also had injuries on her forehead. Among passengers, Dhruv Kotak had a soft-tissue injury on his right arm and abrasions on forehead. Arul Sali also had head injury. KK Krishnadas had fractures on right ankle, left thigh bone and abrasions on forehead. Lars Soens had rib fractures and tenderness on right chest. Aakarsh Sethi escaped without any inuries. The Mumbai airport was shut for operations to carry out inspection. It was later reopened after clearance from DGCA at 06:47 pm after all safety check were conducted. The debris near the runway has been cleared for smooth operations. Few flights have been delayed or diverted after the jet crash. A flight tracker website showed that all Mumbai-bound flights were either diverted to other cities or flying in the airspace in a holding parttern.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
New Delhi Every convict is not the same and some are more privileged than the others, the Supreme Court observed on Thursday as it heard a challenge to the remission granted to 11 men sentenced to life term for gang-raping Bilkis Bano and murdering members of her family during the 2002 Gujarat riots. According to the records placed before the bench, some of the convicts in the case were out on parole for over 1,100 days as they served the sentence (ANI)

Read here: Bilkis gang rape case: CBI, Mumbai courts change in stance led to early release of convicts, SC told

A bench of justices BV Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan emphasised that the real issue before the court was whether the power to grant remission was exercised correctly by the Gujarat government, after taking into account all the relevant factors.

As it continued hearing the arguments in the matter, the bench, at one point, highlighted that the convicts in the Bilkis Bano case cannot seek parity with those life-term convicts who were not let out on parole or furlough during their sentence.

Senior advocate Sidharth Luthra, appearing for one of the convicts, sought to make a point about long incarceration of convicts and the endless wait for their families outside while stressing on the significance of remission policy that he said was guided by the theory of reformation.

Life behind bars is very difficult. They (the convicts in the case) have been lodged for at least 15 years. Their families have been waiting for them outside. They have been waiting for these many years to come out and lead a reformed life. Reformation is the key, said Luthra.

Responding, the bench said: But, in this case, they had the privilege to come out for several days, several times. They were not languishing all this while. There are some convicts who are more privileged as opposed to others. Thats the point we are trying to make.

When Luthra said that there is a specific point that he is trying to make about a convict, the bench interjected to say that every convict is not the same.

According to the records placed before the bench, some of the convicts in the case were out on parole for over 1,100 days as they served the sentence.

It further told the senior counsel that nobody before the court in the bundle of petitions was questioning the validity of the remission policy or doubting its purpose. Nobody is questioning the correctness of the remission policy. The question is the exercise of this power and how this policy was implemented, the bench remarked.

During his submissions, Luthra underscored that remission is not undoing a court judgment but is an exercise of an executive authority under a laid down procedure that propagates the reformative theory of punishment.

These people have suffered. They were lodged for 15 years. It is not the overturning of the judgment but the exercise of an executive power to abridge the jail term. Remission does not interfere with a court order on jail term but allows a prisoner to walk free after spending at least 14 years behind bars if his conduct has been good and there are chances of his reformation, added the senior lawyer.

Concluding his arguments on the day, Luthra said that remission cannot be approached through a punitive attitude because the concept of executive discretion comes in only after a convict has already spent 14 years behind bars and then there are relevant factors supporting his premature release. The court will hear the arguments on behalf of some other convicts on September 20.

Bilkis Bano was 21, and five months pregnant when she was gang-raped while fleeing the violence during the 2002 riots, and her three-year-old daughter was one of the seven people killed.

The release of the 11 men convicted of the crimes against her and her family in August last year sparked public outrage and several PILs came to be filed in the Supreme Court by Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, former CPI member MP Subhashini Ali, among others, in August 2022. Later, in November 2022, Bano also approached the Supreme Court against the Gujarat governments decision to allow the 11 men to walk out of jail.

Read here: Will delay in paying fine not affect remission, SC asks Bilkis case convicts

The decision has been challenged on the grounds that the convicts were released despite adverse opinions of the trial judge and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), besides ignoring the heinous nature of the crime.

The Gujarat government has already completed submissions in the matter, claiming that they followed the May 2022 judgment of the top court to follow the procedure under the 1992 remission policy, which placed no bar on eligibility of rapists to be considered for premature release unlike a subsequent policy of 2014 adopted by the state which prohibits such premature release.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
There is a right of a midday meal to children in schools run by government and local bodies but there is no right to the menu, the Supreme Court held on Thursday, as it dismissed an appeal against the Lakshadweep administrations 2021 decision to drop meat from the midday meal. Childrens right on midday meal not on the menu, says Supreme Court. (HT Archive)

Read here: Supreme Courts real-time case data to be accessible on Judicial Data Grid portal

According to a bench of justices Aniruddha Bose and Bela M Trivedi, what would be served in midday meal is the policy decision of a government, which cannot be regulated by a court of law because such matters would not come within the scope of judicial review.

Where is the vested legal right of having only this (meat) food? We are a court of law, not doing value judgments of the governments decision. You have to appreciate the limits of our role. The Union territory is not asking you to change your food habits. They are changing what they serve you in schools in midday meals. Under the Food Security Act, there may be a vested right for midday meals, but not the menu, observed the bench.

It is not within a courts domain to decide as to what would be the choice of food for children of a particular region nor did it have expertise to find out whether the other food being served in place of meat is being liked or not.

In its order, the bench recorded that no legal breach has been pointed out in the policy decision of the UT administration to exclude meat products from the midday meal in its schools. It is not the courts domain as to what food should be eaten by children of a particular region. There is no scope of interference by courts of law on that count, which would have to accept administrative decisions in that regard unless some outstanding arbitrariness is pointed out, stated the order.

The court further took note of a submission made by additional solicitor general KM Nataraj that the administration has retained non-vegetarian items like egg and fish, which the law officer said, is available in abundance in the said islands.

We do not find any error in the judgment of the Kerala high court in dismissing the public interest litigation. So far as the midday meal is concerned, the administration has retained non-vegetarian items like egg and fish...What is being questioned in this appeal is primarily a policy decision of the administration and no breach of any legal provision has been pointed out. It is not within the courts domain to decide as to what would be the choice of food for children of a particular region. There is no scope of guesswork by the law courts on that count, the order added.

The Kerala high court had in September 2021 dismissed the PIL which challenged the decision to drop meat from school meals as well as the decision to close down dairy farms in the UT.

Advocate Ajmal Ahmed, a resident of Kavaratti, challenged this judgment before the top court, contending that UT administrations move infringed upon the ethnic culture, heritage, food habits, and the rights of the residents under Articles 19 and 300A of the Constitution. He also said that dairy farms being run by the animal husbandry department were being closed to attack the food habits of the islanders being followed from time immemorial.

Read here: Supreme Court reserves order on green crackers, pulls up Delhi Police

The UT administration, however, cited the geographical conditions of the islands and non-availability of green fodder as reasons for shutting the dairy farms, adding it cannot be forced to continue carrying out such activities. The administration added that there was no prohibition against private persons from running dairy farms on the island.

The National Food Security Act, 2013, guarantees a midday meal to children aged 6 to 14 years in government-aided schools and those run by local bodies.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
NEW DELHI: That March day should have been a day of hope, the beginning of a dream for the 18-year-old tribal girl from a district ravaged by Naxal violence. Instead, it was the day her heart sank; the day her distance from the mainstream became glaringly obvious; the day it dawned on her that this distance was in some heartbreaking ways, insurmountable. Every second of the 106,287 aspirants from the Scheduled Tribes (ST) who applied for CUET did not appear for the examination (HT File Photo)

She remembers staring at the form on her screen, and the feeling in the pit of her stomach. The form said she could pick two of four cities to give her examination. One option was Chhattisgarhs capital, Raipur; 430 kilometres from her home in the dense forests of Bijapur. The other, Durg, was slightly closer; 420 kilometres away.

In that moment, Rojrani Marpalli knew, that her dream of sitting for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) 2023, had been extinguished. She didnt even have the heart to complete the application.

She spoke to her family, hoping against hope a path forward would reveal itself. Biology was her favourite subject, and she wanted to become a doctor. She had prepared for the test for over a year, and the aim was a Bachelor of Science course. Growing up, there were problems all around me and not enough doctors. I wanted to help. I wanted to change that, she said.

In truth, there was very little room to manoeuvre. Travel to Raipur would have meant an overnight bus journey, all by herself. The test is held over a few days, and the number of these days depends on the subjects a candidate has applied for, based on subject-specific requirements. Marpalli would have had to appear for four examinations and would have had to stay at a hotel in Raipur for at least five days.

Her family, farmers from the village of Dudhera, 50 kilometres from the Bijapur district headquarters, knew nobody in the big city. She said, her voice trembling over the phone: The entire trip would have cost at least 15,000, and that is if I went alone. My parents had hoped I could escape the district and study, but when we found out about the costs, it was out of the question.

The dream was dead. And not just hers.

In 2022, the University Grants Commission (UGC) made CUET mandatory for all mandatory undergraduate admissions to central universities. 2023 was the second time that the National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted the test. The rationale for a common entrance test was to provide a common platform and equal opportunities to candidates from varied backgrounds, including those from rural and remote ideas.

Except, that the way the examination is conducted has meant several tribal students, by the UGCs own admission, have been left out. Rojrani Marpalli never filled out the form. But there are thousands that did and never turned up to the examination centre.

What the data shows, and what it means

Data released by UGC on July 15 shows that just shy of half the students from the Scheduled Tribe Category (ST) did not appear for the examination even after registering. Overall, in 2023, 28 lakh students appeared for the CUET. A total of 106,287 of these were from the ST category. 52,642 (49.52%) did not appear for the exam. The corresponding number of students who failed to appear for the examination after filling out the form was 24.37% for the general category, 23.55 % for the scheduled caste category, and 27.31% among OBC students.

Marpalli, for instance, was a student of Choo Lo Aasman (literally, touch the sky), an initiative started in 2012 by OP Chaudhury, a former IAS officer who was Dantewada district collector at the time but has since quit the service and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. The programme sought to pull children in Bastar out of the cycle of violence they found themselves in, by training them for competitive examinations.

Chavitesh Dongare, project coordinator for Bijapur (one of the seven districts in Bastar) said, Most students that were preparing for CUET could not appear for the test because of how far away the centre they were assigned was, and how much money it would take. Even before that, many of them are unfamiliar with online processes and are therefore at an added disadvantage even when filling in the form. This is a problem because most of our students come from Maoism-hit villages and their parents had wanted them to leave their villages for their safety and security.

Arun Todem, 18, was one such student who filled out the form but did not have the resources for the expenses that sitting for the examination would entail. Like Marpalli, he wanted to study Biology, but at Banaras Hindu University. His father, who had only studied in a ramshackle village school till class 5, backed him. Yet, when the day came, the Gond paddy farmer did not have the money even for that one-time expenditure.

A classmate booked a room in Raipur. But my father is a farmer, and could not afford it. My board results were good, and I had 76%. But in this new system, I could not apply to these colleges based on the board result. I hope to give the NEET next year. It has more centres, and perhaps it will be closer, Todem said.

In Jharkhand, Sonajharia Minz, former vice chancellor of the Sido Kanhu Murmu University in Dumka said that like Chhattisgarh, tribal students in the state were allotted test centres hundreds of kilometres away from home. Around 200 students came to us and told us about these issues. They were allotted test centres in Ranchi and some were even allotted centres in Bhubaneshwar in Odisha. A trip from Dumka to Ranchi is 285 kilometres, and Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is 600 kilometres away.

This was an issue that the NTA pre-ordained, but had little solution for.

Its notification on May 19 said, Though all measures have been taken for allotting the candidates to their preferred cities, there are some candidates who have been allotted to a city in a neighbouring state. However, we have announced the city information slip in advance to give them time to make travel arrangements.

Minz, now a professor in the School of Computer Systems & Sciences at Jawaharlal Nehru University said, In my generation, we had to walk over a kilometre to get to school. We had to cross rivers, and forests to get there. The same principle of physical distance, in a different way, is coming into the picture now. In addition to this, there is also the digital barrier. Many of these students have never seen a computer in their lives.

The urban concentration of examination centres

The 2023 CUET examination prospectus itself admitted a caveat. Efforts will be made to allot the city of examination to the candidates in order of preference opted by them in their online application form. However, due to administrative/logistic reasons, a different city can be allotted, the prospectus read. The NTA also allotted help centres, meant to help students fill forms or address other difficulties, but for tribal students that live on the margins, these too were too far away. The closest help centre from Bijapur, for instance, was Durg - 420 kilometres away.

Eventually, the CUET was held in nine phases between May 21 and July 5, across 295 Indian cities. Most of these were urban centres, far away from remote tribal pockets. Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland only had centres in two cities each- Itanagar and Papum Pare in the former, and Dimapur and Kohima in the latter.

Professor Sushma Yadava, a former member of the UGC said, Most CUET centres were located in capital cities and in five to six major cities in the state. There were attempts to accommodate candidates in centres as per their choices but if a candidates preferred centre was unavailable, centres in the same district or state were allocated.

Yadav, who was a member of the UGC when CUET was implemented, however, did admit that the numbers suggest that attendance was low, particularly for ST students. This implies that students did not wish to go outside their region or district to take the test. The UGC is attempting to address this issue next year by providing more centres in these districts, she said.

Scheduled Tribes (STs) are the poorest social groups in India, a clear underlying factor in their inability to pay the out-of-pocket expenses needed to reach an examination centre. Their monthly per capita expenditure (MPCE) -- a proxy for monthly incomes in India -- was 1,881 in 2021-22, according to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), which also collects summary data on household spending.

In comparison, the MPCE for SC, OBC and non-SC/ST/OBC groups was 2,122, 2,378, and 3,157, respectively. To be sure, the ST population living in central India is even poorer. For example, the average MPCE of ST population in Jharkhand, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh was just 1,593 in 2021-22.

Yadav, however, underlined that the very fact that UGC data, made available for the first time this year, was available, was a step in the right direction.

An official aware of the processes that go into the distribution of centres said they are allocated after institutes from across the country first express their interest in conducting the test.

First, there is an expression of interest uploaded on the dashboard, and institutes can apply based on certain parameters. They are then allotted based on the institutes availability, the official said. In effect, this means that cities or districts with a high number of such institutes are more likely to have test centres.

UGC chairperson Jagadesh Kumar Mamidala told HT on July 16 that they will analyse the reasons behind the low attendance. In the case of ST category students, the attendance was 50.5%... While we have yet to determine the exact cause, the desire to enrol at a local university could be one possible reason for not attempting CUET-UG after registering for it. Since this is only the second year of the introduction of CUET-UG, it is too early to conclude.

Reached for comment on August 30, Mamidala said that there could be multiple reasons for low attendance in entrance tests in general and these are not specific only to CUET.

Some students may not be well-aware about the test, its importance, or the benefits of taking it, he said.

Among the conceivable reasons for students to miss the CUET, he said, was that students may find it inconvenient to travel; the test could coincide with other important events for the student such as semester exams; or that some students may have decided to apply to universities that give admission through board results. Whatever the reason, we need to find solutions to the challenges faced by students and encourage more of them to participate in these tests. Schools can play an important role in creating awareness among students about various higher education options and career paths, and they should be encouraged to visit colleges, universities and vocational schools to familiarise themselves with the possibilities that emanate from university education. State higher education councils can play an active role in organizing workshops and seminars on the benefits of higher education, CUET application processes, financial aid and scholarship for students, and career opportunities that can result from further studies, Mamidala said.

Back in Bijapur, Rojrani Marpalli has now begun preparation for the NEET for which she hopes to get an accessible centre. Perhaps, she told herself in reassurance, the CUET will have a centre closer to her this year. For someone who lives where she does, there are no guarantees. Already, there is sadness at a year now lost; a year that had delayed her dream of being a first-generation doctor. In her mind though, hope lives still.
It is a bit ironic that only a few weeks after I wrote a column on how one experiences fewer firsts as one gets older my middle-aged self got to experience a brand new one. It happened thus. I was accompanying my husband on a work trip to Dubai and in circumstances entirely too silly to recount I ended up injuring my hamstring. So severe was the pain that I spent a couple of days in bed on painkillers, dosed up to my eyeballs, getting up only to hobble to the loo and back  and I managed that only with his assistance. Dont shame people who are in wheelchairs. You will never manage to embarrass the small minority who are faking. (ADOBE STOCK)

Many people believe that Indian passengers fake being unfit just so that they can jump queues. (ADOBE STOCK)

It got worse at Delhi airport. My husband had booked a buggy to take me to immigration and a wheelchair from then on. But as we tried to board our buggy, we were stopped by an aggressive gentleman who insisted that he had first right on the buggy (that we had booked!) because while I was fine, he had a small baby and couldnt possibly be expected to carry her himself!

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Democracy, from the two Greek words - demos that means a citizen of a city-state and kratos that means 'power' or 'rule' form of government, is a core value of the United Nations where respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and the principle of holding periodic and genuine elections by universal suffrage are some of the essential elements of democracy. It refers to a system where the citizens of a country have the state power to elect their leaders and exercise their right to participate in decision-making processes that affect their lives so, to promote and uphold these principles of democracy worldwide, the United Nations General Assembly established International Day of Democracy in 2007. International Day of Democracy 2023: Date, history, significance, celebration (Photo by Twitter/_Ruhumuriza)

Date:

September 15 is celebrated as International Day of Democracy after being established in 2007 through a resolution passed by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

History:

The International Day of Democracy owes its existence to the Universal Declaration on Democracy, which was adopted on September 15, 1997 by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), which is an international organisation of national parliaments. In the following years, Qatar led efforts to promote an International Day of Democracy. Finally, on November 8, 2007, the day was established as the UNGA adopted by consensus the resolution titled Support by United Nations system of efforts of governments to promote and consolidate a new or restored democracies.

The IPU suggested that the occasion be celebrated on September 15 to commemorate the adoption of Universal Declaration on Democracy 10 years prior. The first such celebration took place in 2008.

Significance:

In the words of the United Nations, International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world. Democracy is as much a process as a goal, and only with the full participation of the international community, can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality.

Celebration:

Every year, events take place under an individual theme but the overarching goal remains the same and that is to promote and uphold democracy as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of good governance and peace. The United Nations and various organisations worldwide organise events, conferences and discussions to mark this day and promote democratic values.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
National Engineers' Day is dedicated to celebrating the extraordinary contributions of engineers to society, recognising their spirit of innovation and highlighting the crucial role they play in influencing the world. This day is significant as it commemorates the birth anniversary of Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, one of India's greatest engineers and visionaries. A nation's growth depends on its engineers as they are at the forefront of innovation, problem-solving and technological advancement. The day encourages the younger generation to consider engineering as a career choice and serves as a reminder of the value of engineering in our daily lives. Keep on reading to know more about this day. (Also read: World Lymphoma Awareness Day 2023: Date, history, significance and celebration ) National Engineers' Day in India is celebrated every year on September 15 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya.(Freepik )

When is National Engineers' Day 2023?

National Engineers' Day will be celebrated across India on Friday, September 15.

Engineers' Day 2023 Theme

The 2023 National Engineers Day theme is 'Engineering for a sustainable future'.

History of National Engineers' Day

National Engineers' Day in India is celebrated every year on September 15 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, a renowned Indian engineer and statesman. In the field of engineering, Sir Visvesvaraya was a pioneer who significantly influenced the growth of India's infrastructure. He was instrumental in the development of dams, irrigation networks and other projects. On National Engineers' Day, we celebrate his legacy and the significant contributions that engineers have made to India's development and modernisation. It serves as a reminder of the importance of engineering in the growth and development of the country.

Engineers' Day significance

Engineers' Day is incredibly significant because it celebrates the dedication, creativity and achievements of engineers in society. It serves as a reminder of the crucial role engineers play in solving complicated problems, advancing technology and raising the standard of living for people around the world. Engineers' Day is a celebration of creativity and progress because it not only recognises the contributions of early engineers but also encourages current and future generations to keep pushing the boundaries.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The biological clock question is rarely asked and it is assumed that men will remain fertile forever hence, the onus of pregnancy always was on women where from time immemorial, women were expected to reproduce as soon as possible and the pressure was accelerated when a woman crossed 30 years but men were never asked. In couples with no kids, men were not tested and only women were tested and blamed but as more number of semen examinations are performed, a greater insight in effect of biological age on men's fertility potential is found. Biological clock ticks for men too. Fertility expert shares what men should do for sperm health (Photo by Nik on Unsplash)

In an interview with HT LIfestyle, Dr Chetna Jain, Director Dept of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals in Gurgaon, shared, New studies believe that male fertility begins to decline between the ages 35 to 45 years. With passing years, the formation of sperms becomes slower and less efficient, meaning counts drop, and there is a rise in genetic abnormalities, miscarriages and still births. It is surprising to find that advanced paternal age at conception can cause diabetes and high blood pressure, preterm births, in mother and autism and schizophrenia in the child.

She asserted, When men are not ready to have kids at a younger age, just like women freezing their eggs, men should consider freezing and storing semen (sperms) for future use. Men who are planning to do sterilization can also consider this option. As men age, usually after 30, there is a decline in testosterone and estrogen, and the levels of FSH and LH rise. This leads to a greater number of abnormal sperms that have fragmented or broken DNA. When the fragmentation is more than 40%, the embryos formed are weak. With passing age, a greater number of abnormal embryos are formed, and thereby, chances of abnormal baby increases. Advanced age in men can also affect erection and can lead to premature ejaculation. This affects overall fertility. Along with biological age, other factors that contribute to male fertility are smoking,alcohol, drug abuse, radiation, and oxidative damage. The accumulation increases with advancing age, further deteriorating the sperms.

What should men do?

Dr Chetna Jain suggested -

Eat healthy

Exercise regularly, including cardio

Avoid smoking and drugs

Reduce alcohol consumption

Avoid steroids - this is the most prominent cause, noted specially in Gym goers

Control blood pressure

Avoid heat exposure to genitals by not keeping laptops on laps, using sauna or hot tubs

Avoid exposure to lead, cadmium, pesticides, and radiation

Maintain regular sexual activity

Dr Chetna Jain concluded, When Hollywood stars like Richard Gere becomes a father at 69 and Robert De Niro becomes father at 79, as influencers, they send a wrong message to people at large. Bringing up a child at that advanced paternal age does not cause justice to the father, mother and child. We just know the tip of iceberg. As more studies look into father's age and its effect on fertility, we will get to know more information on paternal age and its detrimental effect on fertility and offspring. Till then encourage men to have kids at a younger age at least before 45.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
The hottest June, July and August gave the world its hottest ever summer, and pushed the year down a grim path: 2023 is likely to end as the hottest year ever. PREMIUM The freak weather throughout the year has claimed thousands of lives across the planet. (AFP)

Yes, climate deniers would lament that the 1.5C breached in August is just a blip (Well, scientists agree with the monthly temperature rise not being the same as the 1.5C threshold we are trying to not breach); and that there are four months left where a freak winter could bring the annual average temperature down. Scientists have pre-empted these arguments as well, and said that the amount of heat the oceans are absorbing now is likely to make this the hottest year ever. Looking at the additional heat we have in the ocean surface, the probability is that 2023 will end up being the warmest year on record, Samantha Burgess, deputy director of EUs Copernicus Climate Change Service, told AFP. The word to focus on is freak. The freak weather throughout the year, throughout the planet, has claimed thousands of lives, caused hundreds of billions worth of economic losses, and prompted a new cliched warning from the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, that climate breakdown has already begun. And begun it has. Six reports, all in the last fortnight, have foretold what the future may hold if we dont cut fossil fuel emissions. Demise of a species Penguins have long been used in pop culture to evoke a certain cuteness as they are CGI-ed into balls of fluff waddling on ice. Remember Pingu? Or Madagascar? Penguins have long been used in pop culture to evoke a certain cuteness as they are CGI-ed into balls of fluff waddling on ice. Remember Pingu? Or Madagascar? Soon, however, they might end up just that. References in pop culture generate billions of dollars for production houses and merchandise brands, like dinosaurs.

Up to 10,000 emperor penguin chicks are estimated to have been killed in the Antarctic(AP)

According to scientists, up to 10,000 emperor penguin chicks are estimated to have been killed in the Antarctic, as the sea ice underneath the majestic creatures melted and broke apart before they could develop waterproof feathers necessary to swim in the freezing oceans. The birds most likely drowned or froze to death in late 2022 in the west of the continent in the central and eastern Bellingshausen Sea region.

Dr Peter Fretwell, from the British Antarctic Survey, told the BBC that the wipeout was a harbinger of things to come. "Emperors depend on sea ice for their breeding cycle; it's the stable platform they use to bring up their young. But if that ice is not as extensive as it should be or breaks up faster, these birds are in trouble," he told BBC News. Scientists predicted that more than 90% of the emperor penguin colonies will be all but extinct by the end of the century, as the continent's sea ice continues to dwindle. The Antarctic sea ice reached its lowest September level of 16.834 million sq km on September 6  the number is alarming because the region is in the dead of winter, a time when this ice usually builds back. Theres more bad news in store for the birds of the world. 178 bird species in India are now classified as high conservation priority, and the sharpest decline in numbers is among species found in so-called open ecosystems or habitats, the State of Indian Birds Report 2023 said on August 25.

The air we breathe

There's still some time before the Air Quality Index becomes a trending topic of every dinner table conversation in Delhi-NCR. And so, the Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) Annual Update 2023 published on August 29, might appear a bit alarmist.

But considering that air pollution is diminishing the life span of an average South Asian by 5.1 years, time is literally running out. In India, this number rises to 5.3 years. Zoom in on Delhi, the decked-up national capital that just hosted G20 leaders which is also the countrys most populous city, the life span of its residents is diminishing by 11.9 years due to air pollution.

The life span of Delhi's residents is diminishing by 11.9 years due to air pollution. ( Reuters)

If this isnt scary enough, the Air Quality Life Expectancy report published on August 29 said that between 1998 and 2021, the average annual particulate pollution increased by 67.7%, further reducing the average life expectancy by 2.3 years.

And if this isnt embarrassing enough for a country trying to become a $5 trillion economy by 2026; between 2013 and 2021, 59.1% of the worlds increase in pollution has come from India, the report said, flagging the human cost of development. A not-so-natural invasion Over 37,000 alien species have been introduced in ecosystems worldwide due to human activities, a report by the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services said. Of these, over 3,500 are harmful invasive alien species. Over 37,000 alien species have been introduced in ecosystems worldwide due to human activities, a report by the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services said. Of these, over 3,500 are harmful invasive alien species. More often than not, these reports seem too isolated in their scope, the results too distant from our lives that the impact of their findings is shrugged off. But, the Assessment Report on Invasive Alien Species and their Control found that alongside dramatic changes to biodiversity and ecosystems, the global economic cost of invasive alien species exceeded $423 billion annually in 2019, with costs having at least quadrupled every decade since 1970.

Over 37,000 alien species have been introduced in ecosystems around the world due to human activities. - (AFP)

Invasive alien species are a major threat to biodiversity and can cause irreversible damage to nature, including local and global species extinctions, and also threaten human wellbeing, Professor Helen Roy, co-chair of the Assessment said in a statement.

An undeniable, unjust burden Back to the high temperatures now. Back to the high temperatures now. Attribution analysis of temperatures in 180 countries found that the hottest summer in recorded history would have been almost impossible without the influence of carbon pollution. Almost 98% of the entire human population, thats 7.95 billion people, experienced temperatures that were made at least two times more likely by heat-trapping carbon pollution during this years boreal summer, an analysis by Climate Central said on September 7. Between June and August, nearly 2.4 billion people in 41 countries were exposed to over 60 days with temperatures reaching five on the Climate Shift Index. Climate Centrals CSI system quantifies the local influence of climate change on daily temperatures across the globe and estimates how much human-induced climate change shifted the odds of daily temperatures that people experience locally. Countries with the lowest historical emissions experienced three to four times more June-August days with CSI level 3 or higher than G20 countries (the worlds largest economies), the analysis said. This is evident from the State of the Climate in Africa Report 2022, released by the World Meteorological Organization on September 4. The report said that there were 5,000 fatalities on the continent, of which 48% were associated with drought and 43% were associated with flooding. The report said the true toll was likely higher because of under-reporting.

A report said that there were 5,000 fatalities in Africa, of which 43% were associated with flooding. (AP)

To add perspective, per capita CO2 emissions in Africa in 2021 were 1.04 metric tons per person, compared with the global average of 4.69 metric tons per person.

Scientists are hopeful still. On Saturday, the Delhi Declaration adopted at the G20 Summit expressed commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Note the need of $5.8-5.9 trillion in the pre-2030 period required for developing countries, in particular for their needs to implement their NDCs, as well as the need of $4 trillion per year for clean energy technologies by 2030 to reach net zero emissions by 2050, the declaration said. In his comments to BBC News, Fretwell said, "There is hope: we can cut our carbon emissions that are causing the warming. This hope, however, may yet prove counterintuitive as the use of phasedown and scaling up in the Delhi Declaration still gives wiggle room for large economies to continue investing in fossil fuels.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

Continue reading with HT Premium Subscription Daily E Paper I Premium Articles I Brunch E Magazine I Daily Infographics Subscribe Now @1199/year Already Subscribed? Sign In
At the G20 Leaders Summit, India pulled off a historic feat with the adoption of the Leaders Declaration on the very first day. This was a sign that India could bridge divisions and deliver a cooperative and collaborative outcome, rather than a combative stalemate, at a time when multilateralism seemed particularly fractured. The 83-paragraph Declaration, with consensus among all member countries, underscores peace, prosperity, people and the planet  and bringing it all together is an important pact. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Joe Biden, United Kingdom's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and other leaders at Mahatma Gandhi's memorial Rajghat on the final day of the G20 Summit.(PTI)

The G20 comprises the worlds largest economies accounting for over 80% of global gross domestic product (GDP). Through the Leaders Declaration, however, New Delhi has given GDP a new meaning  a Green Development Pact. This does not choose between development and environment but seeks to align people-centric growth with planetary sustainability.

In 2021, this columnist had highlighted the need for focusing on lifestyles, on diversifying clean energy supply chains, and that calls for climate action must be matched with a deal for development for developing countries. In 2023, the New Delhi Leaders Declaration put these issues front and centre. Hosting the first G20 summit after the pandemic, India sought to build consensus around a green developmental pathway that can be resilient against the compounding shocks of debt and disaster while also transitioning to a cleaner economy. The pact lays the foundations to balance these.

First, it focuses on resource efficiency and sustainable consumption. The G20 unanimously adopted the High-level Principles on Lifestyles for Sustainable Development. Its a push for sustainable lifestyles to lower our resource footprints and it sends out the signal to create circular economies at scale, from metals and minerals to plastics and packaging.

A second key component is the emphasis on an inclusive energy transition. This is crucial for bringing the energy transition closer to people (for energy access) in geographies where clean energy infrastructure is needed. The pact endorses a target to triple renewable energy capacity and notes the voluntary action plan to double the rate of improvement in energy efficiency by 2030. It announces a Global Biofuels Alliance. It seeks transparent and resilient global markets for hydrogen. And it calls for diversified and responsible supply chains for critical minerals and semiconductors.

Thirdly, the pact focuses on climate and sustainable finance. The Leaders Declaration finally endorses the need for trillions of dollars for the billions of people living in the Global South, in particular $5.9 trillion needed by developing countries to achieve their climate targets by 2030, as well as $4 trillion needed per year for clean energy. Recognising the importance of leveraging the role of multilateral development banks, the pact calls for blended finance and risk-sharing facilities.

Fourthly, the pact links the triple planetary crises by drawing attention not only to the climate crisis but also reducing plastic pollution and preserving biodiversity. These include the G20 Global Land Initiative to reduce land degradation, the High-Level Principles for a Sustainable and Resilient Blue/Ocean-based Economy, and the sharing of best global practices on water.

The final crucial component is building disaster-resilient infrastructure. India introduced a Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group into the G20. It will be incumbent on member countries, all of whom have faced weather extremes, to ensure robust early warning systems and include people as stakeholders in and enablers of resilient infrastructure.

As with all negotiations, not all objectives were achieved. While there is language to phase down unabated coal power, efforts to get an agreement on a phase-down of all fossil fuels could not get consensus. At the same time, G20 leaders recognised that limiting temperature rise to 1.5 degree Celsius would need emissions cuts of 43% by 2030 relative to 2019.

If these seeming contradictions have to be squared, the G20 Leaders Summit must be viewed as the first leg of a four-part relay. India has kicked off this race with a comprehensive Leaders Declaration, which includes the Green Development Pact. The next leg is the UN General Assembly and the UN SDG Summit next week when non-G20 leaders can propose their visions for doubling down on the energy transition and climate sustainability. Next, the baton will pass to the World Bank annual meetings in Marrakech in October. G20 leaders have called for the reform of the MDBs but will the World Banks biggest shareholders agree when it really matters? So far, it seems close to $200 billion of additional lending could be possible with the proposed reforms.

But the journey from billions to trillions will be a long one for the Global South, which needs resources to build sustainable infrastructure at lower costs. The anchor of the race will be the COP28 climate meetings in Dubai in November-December. It will be the venue for an honest conversation about the global stocktake and the state of the planet.

The ideal outcome would be a genuine financial platform to deliver large volumes of institutional capital that the G20 has called for  in a manner that reinvigorates trust in the process. The new GDP  Green Development Pact  can serve as a bridge between the Global South and the North. It is a combination of ambition and action, where each G20 member (including the African Union as the newest member) has something to take home. Now, we need effective multilateralism and hard resources to demonstrate solidarity with the vulnerable and commit to the planet.

Arunabha Ghosh is CEO, Council on Energy, Environment and Water. He serves on the Government of Indias G20 Finance Track Advisory Group and provides guidance to the Sherpa Track for Indias G20 presidency. The views expressed are personal

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Union minister of state for electronics information and technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar said on Thursday that the recently launched Apple iPhone 15 series includes the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)-made NavIC satellite system referring to it as a milestone for India. He also mentioned that these phones are available in India on the same day as they are in New York and London, which he described as a proud moment. Tech giant Apple Inc. launched its highly-anticipated iPhone 15 series on Tuesday. (AP)

The world's largest company in technology Apple has launched its new iPhone 15. During this launch, India is achieving two milestones. First, the availability of the iPhone 15 in India would be on the same day as the availability of it in New York and London...And the second is that the NavIC GPS satellite system developed by ISRO would be present in the iPhone 15, new agency ANI quoted Union minister as saying.

Apple Inc. launched its highly-anticipated iPhone 15 series on Tuesday at its annual event Wonderlust.

What is NavIC?

ISRO has established a regional navigation satellite system named Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC), formerly known as the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), to fulfill the nation's positioning, navigation, and timing requirements. It was initiated to reduce dependency on global navigation satellite systems controlled by foreign governments.

Developed independently by ISRO, NavIC was originally sanctioned in 2006 at a cost of $174 million ( 1,426 crore), with an expected completion date in late 2011, according to Reuters. It became operational in 2018.

NavIC provides two services: the Standard Position Service (SPS) for civilian users and the Restricted Service (RS) for strategic users. These services are available in both L5 (1176.45 MHz) and S band (2498.028 MHz).

The coverage area of NavIC spans India and extends up to 1500 km beyond India's borders. NavIC SPS signals are compatible with signals from other global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), including GPS, Glonass, Galileo, and BeiDou.

NavIC applications include, terrestrial, aerial, and marine transportation, location-based services, personal mobility, monitoring of resources, surveying, scientific research, time dissemination, synchronization, as well as the dissemination of safety-of-life alerts.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Lingamgunta Nirmitha Rao Trainee Content Producer at Hindustan Times Digital Stream. India's regional languages attract me. ...view detail
A man from New Zealand has set the world record for being the oldest competitive motorcycle racer. Earlier this year, at the age of 97, Leslie Harris created this record by competing alongside his 64-year-old son, Rod, and 21-year-old granddaughter, Olivia. They all participated in the Regularity race, in which the aim is to perform the most consistent lap times. Snapshot of Leslie Harris, world's oldest competitive motorcycle racer. (Image/@Guinness World Records)

Harris had previously won this event in 2019, aged 93, but he was unable to participate in the event again due to hip replacement surgery. (Also Read: This is the OG Delhi Metro record holder of 15:22:49 travel time

He then joined the 2020 Classic Festival to defend his title, but he was injured during the event and was unable to compete. Harris fell off his motorcycle and broke six ribs after the bike slipped from the roller starters while he was mounting it for a qualification race. He luckily recovered without suffering any permanent damage, reported Guinness World Records.

As a result, the 2023 festival at Pukekohe Park Raceway was extremely special for Harris, as it had been a long time since he'd been able to race, let alone compete with his family members for the first time.

"It was very important to Les to be able to ride the track and compete for a trophy he had won at a previous event, Tim, Harris' younger son, told Guinness World Records.

He further said, Les is still competing and will continue to do so as long as he can swing a leg over his bike.

Harris intends to compete in more events this year, and he is also looking forward to the 44th Classic Festival, which will be held in February 2024 at the new Manfeild Circuit Chris Amon in Feilding.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
When a woman in California returned to her home, she was shocked to discover that a bear had broken into the house and raided her refrigerator. A bear broke into a house and ate food from someone's fridge. (Unsplash)

Chelsea Mapanda got to her home in the early hours to find her Sierra Madre house's side door opened. So, as she carefully looked through the window for an intruder, she discovered the fridge was open, and food was scattered all over the floor.

I was walking through my courtyard, and I glanced to the left where my side door is and it was wide open. So, I automatically knew that a bear was in my house because we had been alerted that a bear was around," Mapanda told KTLA5.

She also said that the bear had eaten plum sauce, fresh honey, and mangoes from the fridge. (Also Read: Bear breaks into Florida home, drinks beer, hogs on snacks)

Shortly after that, the police arrived at her place and heard grunting sounds from inside the home. While waiting for assistance from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, police barricaded the area and waited outside the home with Mapanda.

According to UPI, the bear eventually left the residence on its own before wildlife officers arrived. Residents were advised to avoid the area until authorities confirmed that the animal was no longer present.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A Bangladeshi vlogger and his girlfriend were travelling in Bengaluru when an auto driver scammed them. The incident was brought to the attention of the police when a Kolkata-based vlogger shared the video on social media and tagged the Bengaluru Police. The police acted quickly to identify and apprehend the auto driver. Police apprehended the auto driver who scammed the Bangladeshi vlogger and his girlfriend after the video was widely shared online. (X/@ssnagartrfps)

Bangladeshi blogger and his girlfriend were travelling to Bengaluru Palace. A local auto driver cheated them. This is how we treat foreigners. Please take action, wrote X user Mrityunjay Sardar while sharing the video on the microblogging platform. It was originally uploaded on YouTube by the Bangladeshi vlogger Md Fizz.

The video shows Fizz, handing a 500 note to the auto driver. The driver then says that the fare is 300 and slips the 500 note into his sleeve. When Fizzasks how much he has given, the driver pretends that he has only received a Rs100 note. Fizz takes the money and hands over another 500 note to the auto driver.

Watch the video of this auto driver cheating the Bangladeshi vlogger below:

After the tweet gained traction, the police in Bengaluru identified and apprehended the auto driver and handed him over to Sadashivanagar police station for further action.

Heres how people reacted to this incident:

I too had a similar experience where I lost 1000 a few years back in Bangalore. There are a lot of cheats among these drivers, posted an individual.

Another added, Same thing happened with me years back in Mumbai.

Solution - use maximum Digital payment! I understand it was a foreigner but we can use this to avoid getting scammed, expressed a third.

A fourth commented, I got cheated in a very similar way back in Aug 2018.

Shameless, cancel his licence, suggested a fifth.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Arfa Javaid Arfa Javaid is a journalist working with the Hindustan Times' Delhi team. She covers trending topics, human interest stories, and viral content online. ...view detail
A lioness was approaching a buffalo calf when the mother buffalo noticed and quickly led the herd towards the calf to save her young one from the predator. However, in her attempt to do so, she ended up sacrificing her own life. Buffalo herd engages in a fierce battle with lion pride. (YouTube/Latest Sightings)

Buffalo mom sacrifices herself to save her baby from lions, reads the caption of the video shared on the YouTube channel Latest Sightings.

The video opens to show a group of lions lounging under a tree as a herd of buffalo moves in their direction. Soon, a lioness comes close to the calf. As the video goes on, the buffalo herd, led by the mother buffalo, courageously fights the lions to protect the calf. Towards the end, the mother buffalo throws herself in front of the lions to save her calf.

The video was captured by Gavin Brett, who is a lawyer, on his family trip to the Thornybush Game Reserve in South Africa.

Watch this video of buffaloes and lions here:

The video was shared a day ago on YouTube. After watching the video, many took to the comments section to share their thoughts.

Heres how people reacted to this animal video:

The battles that daily rage the plains of the African savannas. Nature at its finest, posted a YouTube user. Another added, I cant help but wonder what happened to the orphaned baby calf. Was it abandoned without a mother or adopted by the herd? Would be so sad if the mother's sacrifice was in vain. She threw her weight to the lions after the calf was out of danger, and once they got a hold of her, she started wailing around, expressed a third.

Also Read| Watch pride of lions squeezing onto a river bank to drink water

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A video of a man touching a reporter inappropriately on live television was posted on social media. The incident took place in Spain where the man touched the reporter when she was standing on a street reporting about a robbery. The image shows the man who was arrested after inappropriately touching a reporter on live television. (X/@StefSimanowitz, X/@policia)

X user Stefan Simanowitz shared the video of the incident. Do you really have to touch my ass? Yesterday, journalist Isa Balado was in the middle of a live report in Madrid when a man approached her from behind and sexually assaulted her, grabbing her bottom, Simanowitz wrote. The police department later replied to Simanowitzs tweet with a video showing the mans arrest.

The video that Simanowitz tweeted shows Isa Balado reporting in front of the camera for channel Cuatro. The man casually walks towards her and touches her. He also asks her which channel she works for.

Take a look at the video of the incident and the polices response:

Cuatro's owner Mediaset Espana put out a statement about the incident. Espana expressed that the channel "categorically repudiates any form of harassment or aggression. We fully support Isa Balado, reporter for 'En boca de todos', after the absolutely intolerable situation she has suffered today."

Equality Minister Irene Montero also showed her support for Balado. "Non-consensual touching is sexual violence and we say enough to impunity," she said.

(With agency inputs)

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
As a parent, there's nothing quite like seeing your children pursue fulfilling careers and achieving their dreams. A journalist took to X (formerly Twitter) to share how her parents experience this sense of pride every day as they tune in to watch her deliver the news on TV. She also detailed how her mother goes the extra mile and captures her moments on television to share with her later. The screenshot shows the messages sent by a proud mother to her journalist daughter.(X/@CelinaTebor)

My mom texts me photos of myself on CNN every day, reads the caption of the pictures shared by news presenter Celina Tebor on X.

In the first screenshot, Celinas mom sends her a message while watching her on TV: Im seeing you on CNN now, what a nice view! Dad will take a photo if possible. Haha. A few hours later, she follows up with another message. She sends her a picture and asks, Did dad send this to you today?

In yet another screenshot, Celinas mom expresses her enthusiasm, You must have moved your desk. Great idea, we can see you better now! To which Celina replies, No, Im just sitting down. I can adjust my desk height.

Take a look at the tweet right here:

Although the tweet was shared a while back, it has so far accumulated over 14 million views. Additionally, it has collected scores of likes and retweets. Many even took to the comments section to share their thoughts.

Heres how people reacted to this tweet:

Thats so sweet, expressed an individual.

Another added, I just love this so much!

Your mom is a legend, shared a third.

A fourth commented, This is so beautiful! Much love to your amazing mom!

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Two years is a fairly long time to understand a person, how they think, what they believe in, and what motivates them. So, when Walter Isaacson had the opportunity to engage closely with Elon Musk for his biography, he delved deeper into Musk's personal and professional life and, most importantly, shed light on the factors that motivate the tech giant to grow bigger. (Also Read: Vladimir Putin's praise for Elon Musk with a jab: Outstanding person as) Elon Musk biography details his personal and professional life. (REUTERS)

Here are four things that makes Elon Musk stand out as a business man:

1. Walter Isaacson on Musk's enraging qualities:

Isaacson told CNBCs 'Squawk Box' that Musk is known for making controversial statements on X (formerly Twitter). However, this reckless streak of comments does not separate Musk from his genius of innovation at companies like Tesla and SpaceX.

"He has these enraging qualities, these drives, and these demons, but if you pull those out, you don't have the impulsive character that sets things off," said Isaacson to CNBC.

Musk's willingness to take risks and express his thoughts has helped him become the world's richest person and one of the world's most powerful entrepreneurs. Isaacson further said, "If you dont have the whole cloth of Elon Musk, youre not going to get the innovation. (Also Read: Elon Musks brother Kimbal Musk once bit flesh off his hand, biography reveals)

2. Troubled tycoon driven by inner demons

Isaacson shares that every person has some demons to face, but Musk has "two orders of magnitude more than most of us." The author told The New York Times that Musk has been able to harness his demons into drive.

The tech giant's three main motivations include: taking humans to Mars, building an era of electric vehicles, and making sure that AI is safe.

"These are three grand missions that I thought were just him spouting off, but he really gets motivated by that. He also just so craves excitement, drama, and risk that whenever things are going well, he cant leave well enough alone or savor it," Isaacson told The New York Times.

3. Does money motivate Musk?

The author informed CNBC that Musk did not buy Twitter for money. Isaacson says, "If he wanted to make money he wouldn't have bought Twitter, he wouldn't have sent rockets to Mars, he probably wouldn't do electric vehicles. There are a lot of things that motivate him but money isn't number one."

4. Musk's view on empathy:

According to Isaacson, Musk's personality does not include deference, empathy, restraint, the ability to collaborate, the inclination to consider how his words affect others around him, doting on his children, and vacations, reports VOX.

He didnt have the emotional receptors that produce everyday kindness and warmth and a desire to be liked. He was not hardwired to have empathy, shares Isaacson. (Also Read: Elon Musk's X a habitual non-compliant platform, not following orders: Government)

More about Elon Musk's biography:

The biography, titled Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson, explores the mind of Musk. Isaacson was not only able to map the personal life of Elon Musk, but he also talked about the businessman's relationship with his father, his children, and his former partners.

Along with mapping his personal thoughts, the biography also explores his political views, his take on business and money, and the things that truly motivate him.

Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" "Exciting news! Hindustan Times is now on WhatsApp ChannelsSubscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Britain, France and Germany announced Thursday they will keep their sanctions on Iran related to the Mideast country's atomic program and development of ballistic missiles. The measures were to expire in October under a timetable spelled out in the now defunct nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers. The measures ban Iran from developing ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons(Reuters)

In a joint statement, the three European allies known as E3 that had helped negotiate the nuclear deal, said they would retain their sanctions in a direct response to Irans consistent and severe non-compliance with the accord, also known by its official name as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or JCPOA.

The measures ban Iran from developing ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons and bar anyone from buying, selling or transferring drones and missiles to and from Iran. They also include an asset freeze for several Iranian individuals and entities involved in the nuclear and ballistic missile program.

Iran has violated the sanctions by developing and testing ballistic missiles and sending drones to Russia for its war on Ukraine.

The sanctions will remain in place until Tehran is fully compliant with the deal, the E3 said. The sanctions, according to the accord from eight years ago, were to expire on Oct. 18.

The 2015 nuclear deal meant to ensure that Iran could not develop atomic weapons. Under the accord, Tehran agreed to limit enrichment of uranium to levels necessary for nuclear power in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.

In 2018, then-President Donald Trump unilaterally pulled the United States out of the accord, saying he would negotiate a stronger deal, but that did not happen. Iran began breaking the terms a year later and is now enriching uranium to nearly weapons-grade levels, according to a report by the United Nations nuclear watchdog.

Formal talks to try to find a roadmap to restart the deal collapsed in August 2022.

The E3 have informed the European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, about their decision, the statement said. Borrell, in turn, said he had forwarded the E3 letter to other signatories of the 2015 deal  China, Russia and Iran.

The development comes at a delicate moment as the United States is preparing to finalize a prisoner swap with Iran that would include the unfreezing of Iranian assets held in South Korean banks worth $6 billion.

Irans mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters that Washington was in touch with the European allies over the appropriate next steps.

We are working closely with our European allies, including members, of course, of the E3, to address the continued threat that Iran poses including on missiles and arms transfers with the extensive range of unilateral and multilateral tools that are at our disposal," he said.

Iran has long denied ever seeking nuclear weapons and continues to insist that its program is entirely for peaceful purposes, though Rafael Mariano Grossi of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N. nuclear watchdog, has warned that Tehran has enough enriched uranium for several nuclear bombs if it chose to build them.

Under the terms of the nuclear deal, a U.N. arms embargo against Tehran will expire on Oct. 18, after which countries that do not adopt similar sanctions on their own as the E3  likely Russia and perhaps also China  will no longer be bound by the U.N. restrictions on Iran.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Artificial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT diagnosed patients rushed to emergency at least as well as doctors and in some cases outperformed them, Dutch researchers have found, saying AI could "revolutionise the medical field". Co-author Steef Kurstjens told AFP the survey did not indicate that computers could one day be running the ER, but that AI can play a vital role in assisting under-pressure medics. (Reuters)

But the report published Wednesday also stressed ER doctors needn't hang up their scrubs just yet, with the chatbot potentially able to speed up diagnosis but not replace human medical judgement and experience.

Scientists examined 30 cases treated in an emergency service in the Netherlands in 2022, feeding in anonymised patient history, lab tests and the doctors' own observations to ChatGPT, asking it to provide five possible diagnoses.

They then compared the chatbot's shortlist to the same five diagnoses suggested by ER doctors with access to the same information, then cross-checked with the correct diagnosis in each case.

Doctors had the correct diagnosis in the top five in 87 percent of cases, compared to 97 percent for ChatGPT version 3.5 and 87 percent for version 4.0.

"Simply put, this indicates that ChatGPT was able to suggest medical diagnoses much like a human doctor would," said Hidde ten Berg, from the emergency medicine department at the Netherlands' Jeroen Bosch Hospital.

Co-author Steef Kurstjens told AFP the survey did not indicate that computers could one day be running the ER, but that AI can play a vital role in assisting under-pressure medics.

"The key point is that the chatbot doesn't replace the physician but it can help in providing a diagnosis and it can maybe come up with ideas the doctor hasn't thought of," Kurstjens told AFP.

Large language models such as ChatGPT are not designed as medical devices, he stressed, and there would also be privacy concerns about feeding confidential and sensitive medical data into a chatbot.

- 'Bloopers' -

And as in other fields, ChatGPT showed some limitations.

The chatbot's reasoning was "at times medically implausible or inconsistent, which can lead to misinformation or incorrect diagnosis, with significant implications," the report noted.

The scientists also admitted some shortcomings with the research. The sample size was small, with 30 cases examined. In addition, only relatively simple cases were looked at, with patients presenting a single primary complaint.

It was not clear how well the chatbot would fare with more complex cases. "The efficacy of ChatGPT in providing multiple distinct diagnoses for patients with complex or rare diseases remains unverified."

Sometimes the chatbot did not provide the correct diagnosis in its top five possibilities, Kurstjens explained, notably in the case of an abdominal aneurysm, a potentially life-threatening complication where the aorta artery swells up.

The only consolation for ChatGPT: in that case the doctor got it wrong too.

The report sets out what it calls the medical "bloopers" the chatbot made, for example diagnosing anaemia (low haemoglobin levels in the blood) in a patient with a normal haemoglobin count.

"It's vital to remember that ChatGPT is not a medical device and there are concerns over privacy when using ChatGPT with medical data," concluded ten Berg.

"However, there is potential here for saving time and reducing waiting times in the emergency department. The benefit of using artificial intelligence could be in supporting doctors with less experience, or it could help in spotting rare diseases," he added.

The findings -- published in the medical journal Annals of Emergency Medicine -- will be presented at the European Emergency Medicine Congress (EUSEM) 2023 in Barcelona.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Chinese spies are targeting British officials in sensitive positions as part of an increasingly sophisticated spying operation to gain access to secrets and their specialised knowledge, the British government said responding to a parliamentary report in July which found the government's approach to the threat posed by China was inadequate. The UK government said measures were in place to stop officials from being recruited, including regular vetting and software to help them identify fake profiles on social media. A security surveillance camera overlooking a street is pictured next to a nearby fluttering flag of China in Beijing.(Reuters)

"The government recognises that Chinese recruitment schemes have tried to headhunt British and allied nationals in key positions and with sensitive knowledge and experience," the government said amid growing anxiety about Chinese activity in Britain which exacerbated since it was revealed that a parliamentary researcher was arrested in March on suspicion of spying for China.

The arrest of the young researcher led to calls by British members of parliament for a tougher stance on China while the Chinese foreign ministry called the spying claims "entirely groundless". The researcher has denied being a spy.

In its highly critical parliamentary report, the Intelligence and Security Committee said Beijing had successfully penetrated every sector of the British economy. China is involved in a "whole state" assault on Britain and the government's approach has been completely inadequate, the ISC concluded after a four-year inquiry.

Chinese spying efforts in Britain were once focused on the hacking and stealing of intellectual property, lawmakers said.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
A day after Ukraine's presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak made a controversial remark against India and China saying that the two countries had weak intellectual potential, Ukraine issued a clarification on Thursday. Mykhailo Podolyak, a political adviser to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. (Reuters/File)

Adviser to the Head of the Office of the Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskyy, Podolyaka said on Thursday that India, China and Turkey were justified in playing a bigger role in the world.

Podolyak's statement was published Russian news agency Sputnik on Wednesday, which quoted him saying that India and China had weak intellectual potential and they fail to analyze the consequences of their actions.

Issuing a clarification, Podolyak said, Of course, Turkey, India, China, and other regional powers are increasingly and clearly justified in claiming global roles in the modern world - and there are all the reasons for this: historical, economic, cultural, scientific, and political. And these roles have long been much more extensive than Russias. But the global world is much broader than even the most thoughtful regional national interests.

Earlier, Ukraine's foreign minister snubbed the G-20 Summit held in India and said that it was nothing to be proud of.

Podolyak said, Whats the problem with China, India, etc. - they are not able to analyze the consequences of their actions - these countries have low intellectual potential, unfortunately. Yes, they invest in science. Yes, India has launched a lunar rover recently which is now trekking on the surface of the Moon, but that does not indicate that this country fully comprehends what the modern world is about.

His statements sparked outrage across the globe among Indians and from people from several developing countries.

In April this year, Ukrainian authorities faced heavy backlash after the Defense of Ukraine's Twitter account posted a picture of Hindu goddess Kali posing as late actor Marilyn Monroe's famous pose.

Since the Ukraine-Russia war began, India has continually maintained a diplomatic position. While the country has called for the war to be ended, India has not imposed any sanctions on Russia.

The declaration signed at the recent G-20 Summit under India's presidency attained 100 per cent consensus. However, it did not mention Russia as a perpetrator of the war or talk about the war in Ukraine.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed it was a diplomatic victory and deemed the summit a success. He said, We were able to prevent the West's attempts to 'Ukrainize' the summit agenda.

Ukrainian foreign ministry had said that the summit declaration was nothing to be proud of and criticised it for not mentioning Ukraine-Russia war.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sanskriti Falor Sanskriti Falor is a Senior Content Producer at the News Desk of HT Digital. Having worked in Digital Media for the past two years, she is interested in covering civic issues and global affairs. ...view detail
Nasa's Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP) independent study team which was commissioned in 2022, is set to unveil its highly anticipated findings after a yearlong study into UFOs. The report could focus on what NASA needs in order to better identify unidentified flying objects from a scientific point of view. Earlier this year, the team insisted that there is no conclusive evidence of extraterrestrial life associated with UFOs. The study may also throw light on air traffic management to acquire data on future reported UAPs.(Representational)

The 16-member group which includes scientists, aviation and artificial intelligence experts did not access any top-secret files but has relied on unclassified data in an attempt to better understand unexplained sightings in the sky. The study may also throw light on air traffic management to acquire data on future reported UAPs.

NASA said there are so few high-quality observations that no scientific conclusions can be drawn. The team was tasked to better understand UAPs, or unidentified aerial phenomena. UAPs are also largely referred to as Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). NASA defines them as observations in the sky that cannot be readily identified or scientifically explained.

The study which cost almost USD 100,000 has laid the groundwork for Nasa and other organizations to conduct their own research. It will provide a roadmap for future analysis, NASA has said. The full report will be released during the briefing at Nasa's headquarters in Washington which will be led by a panel including Nasa Administrator Bill Nelson, Nicola Fox, associate administrator of the Science Mission Directorate, Dan Evans, assistant deputy associate administrator for research, and David Spergel, president of the Simons Foundation and chair of Nasas UAP independent study team.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to meet X owner Elon Musk on Monday in Silicon Valley, the Washington Post reported on Thursday. Elon Musk, Chief Executive Officer of SpaceX and Tesla and owner of Twitter, gestures.(Reuters)

X, formerly known as Twitter, has seen a dramatic increase in hate speech since Musk bought the site last year and loosened safeguards around content moderation. Last week, Musk said that U.S. ad revenue had declined by 60%.

The meeting is the latest step in a campaign by Musks Jewish friends and allies to stave off the mounting criticism surrounding the increase in antisemitic speech on X, the report said, citing five people familiar with the situation.

Musk didn't immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Civil rights groups, including the Center for Countering Digital Hate and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), have issued findings that the volume of hate speech on X has grown dramatically under the stewardship of Musk, who is also the CEO of electric carmaker Tesla.

In December, the ADL noted both an increase in antisemitic content on the platform and a decrease in the moderation of antisemitic posts since Musk took over. The Center for Countering Digital Hate said the daily use of a racial slur against Black people under Musk was triple the 2022 average and slurs against gay men and trans persons were up 58% and 62%, respectively.

Without providing evidence, Musk has blamed critics for the slump in ad revenue, pointing the finger specifically at pressure from the ADL.

Earlier this month, Musk joined a conversation on X with a hashtag #BantheADL, embraced by white nationalists and antisemites, and asked followers whether he should poll the platform about it. He engaged in exchanges with users who expressed antisemitic viewpoints during the discussion.

X's new content moderation policy has made it challenging to convince brands that the social media platform was safe for ads, the company's former head of brand safety and ad quality AJ Brown told Reuters in an interview earlier this month.
A airplane crash in western Alaska has claimed the life of Eugene Peltola Jr., the husband of U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola. This unfortunate incident adds to a series of tragic fatalities involving politicians and their loved ones in Alaska, where air travel is common due to limited road infrastructure. FILE - Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi of Calif., left, administers the House oath of office to Rep. Mary Peltola, D-Alaska, standing next to her husband Eugene "Buzzy" Peltola Jr., center, during a ceremonial swearing-in on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. Peltola's husband Eugene has died in an airplane crash in Alaska, her office said Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. (AP)

Anton McParland, Chief of Staff for Rep. Mary Peltola, conveyed the news, saying, "We are devastated to share that Marys husband, Eugene Peltola Jr.  Buzzy to all of us who knew and loved him  passed away earlier this morning following a plane accident in Alaska."

Mary Peltola, who made history as the first Alaska Native elected to Congress in the previous year, was on her way home to be with her grieving family.

The family issued a statement requesting privacy during this difficult time as they mourn their loss.

The crash involved a Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub, which appears to have occurred during takeoff after dropping off a hunter and equipment about 65 miles northeast of St. Mary's. During a press conference, National Transportation Safety Board chairperson Jennifer Homendy shared these details.

Eugene Peltola, aged 57, was identified as the pilot and the sole occupant of the plane. Two hunters who were nearby but not involved in the crash provided medical assistance to Peltola.

The Alaska Rescue Coordination Center received a distress signal at 8:48 p.m. on Tuesday, initiating an investigation into the crash's circumstances. The crash site, located in a remote and mountainous area approximately 450 miles west of Anchorage, remains challenging to access, according to Homendy.

Also Read | 'I am In Africa...': Wagner Chief Prigozhin's Video Surfaces After Russia Plane Crash | Watch

Details regarding the plane's origin and destination before the crash remain unknown at this time.

Eugene Peltola had obtained his commercial pilot's license in 2004, which required the use of corrective lenses. The plane's FAA registry indicates it was manufactured in 1952, with ownership attributed to Bruce Werba of Holy Cross, Alaska.

Condolences have poured in for Eugene Peltola. President Joe Biden, Governor Mike Dunleavy, and Senator Lisa Murkowski expressed their profound sorrow and celebrated Eugene's contributions to Alaska.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A new biography, Romney: A Reckoning, reveals that Sen. Mitt Romney recalls then-Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell calling President Donald Trump an idiot who doesnt think when he says things. U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) speaks to reporters following the Senate Republicans weekly policy lunch at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, U.S., September 12, 2023. REUTERS/Elizabeth Frantz(REUTERS)

The biography, an excerpt of which was published in The Atlantic on Wednesday after the senators announcement that he wouldnt run for reelection in 2024, explores Romneys dilemma of dealing with two versions of McConnell: The one who would publicly do Trumps bidding, and the one who would privately criticize the 45th president.

ALSO READ| Time to bring people back to work, comedian Bill Maher's show will continue on HBO amid Hollywood strikes

In a video shared on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), Romney articulated his choice, citing his age, as he will be in his mid-80s by that time, and expressed his belief that it is now the moment for a new generation of leaders to assume the reins of leadership.

The biography says that in October 2019, just before the House inquiry began for Trumps first impeachment, Romney tweeted that Trumps pressure on China and Ukraine to investigate Biden was wrong and appalling. Trump then launched a social media campaign to #IMPEACHMITTROMNEY who he said was playing right into the hands of the Do Nothing Democrats.

Weeks after the exchange, the Utah Senator saw a news report that said McConnell had privately urged Trump to stop attacking Republican senators.

Romney thanked McConnell after seeing this. Politico published a story in late October 2019 that mentioned McConnells reported private plea.

Hes an idiot, the book says McConnell replied.

He doesnt think when he says things. How stupid do you have to be to not realize that you shouldnt attack your jurors?

The book noted that McConnell told Romney he was lucky because he could publicly say the things that we all think.

ALSO READ| The next generation of leaders must take America, Mitt Romney wont seek Senate reelection, calls for new generation

Youre in a position to say things about him that we all agree with but cant say, Romney remembered McConnell telling him.

A spokesperson for McConnell told The Atlantic that the Senate leader doesnt recall that specific conversation.
A Mexican journalist and researcher recently presented alleged remains of "non-human" beings at the first public congressional hearing on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena, or UAPS, or UFOs, held in the country for the first time. Two stuff bodies were presented by Jose Jaime Maussan, who claimed that they were recovered in Peru in 2017. He said the bodies were 700 and 1,800 years old. US Navy pilot Ryan Graves also testified to lawmakers (REUTERS/Henry Romero, Photo by Handout / Mexico's Congress / AFP)

Former US Navy pilot Ryan Graves also testified to lawmakers. Ryan participated in US Congressional hearings about what he personally experienced with UAP, and also spoke about the stigma involved around reporting such sightings. Ryan said thefocus of his organisation, Americans for Safe Aerospace, is on improving public education of UAP, breaking stigma and working towards better transparency and disclosure.

What did Ryan Graves say about the hearing?

In the past, however, Ryan has mostly spoken about UAPs, but not specifically about alien bodies. After testifying before the Mexican Congress, he took to X (formerly Twitter) to say that the demonstration was a huge step backwards for this issue. Notably, Joses coverage on aliens was once debunked. Many expressed their doubts about the bodies presented by Jose.

After the U.S. Congressional UFO hearing, I accepted an invitation to testify before the Mexican Congress hoping to keep up the momentum of government interest in pilot experiences with UAP. Unfortunately, yesterdays demonstration was a huge step backwards for this issue, Ryan wrote on X.

My testimony centered on sharing my experience and the UAP reports I hear from commercial and military aircrew through ASAs witness program. I will continue to raise awareness of UAP as an urgent matter of aerospace safety, national security, and science, but I am deeply disappointed by this unsubstantiated stunt, he added.

Scepticism around Jose Jaime Maussans presentation

The bodies Maussan presented had only three fingers on each hand. They had elongated heads, and non-human appearing anatomy. According to Jose, he and others consider the bodies to be "non-human beings that are not part of our terrestrial evolution."

"It's the queen of all evidence," Maussan claimed. "That is, if the DNA is showing us that they are non-human beings and that there is nothing that looks like this in the world, we should take it as such." He added that he did not wish to refer to them as "extraterrestrials" yet. He claimed that the bodies were discovered underground in the sandy Peruvian coastal desert of Nazca.

Back in 2017, similar claims made by Maussan in Peru were allegedly debunked. A report by the country's prosecutor's office determined that the bodies were actually recently manufactured dolls, which have been covered with a mixture of paper and synthetic glue to simulate the presence of skin, according to ABC News.

The report added that the bodies were almost surely human-made and that they are not the remains of ancestral aliens that they have tried to present. At the time, the figures were not publicly presented. It is unclear if the same bodies were presented to Mexico's congress.

Julieta Fierro, researcher at the Institute of Astronomy at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, said after the presentation in Mexico that several details about the figures made no sense. Julieta said that more advanced technology than X-rays would be needed to determine if the bodies were really non-human.

Maussan has done many things. He says he has talked to the Virgin of Guadalupe, she said. He told me extraterrestrials do not talk to me like they talk to him because I dont believe in them.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
US president Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden was indicted Thursday on federal firearms charges as he was accused of lying about his drug use when he bought a firearm in October 2018. As per the indictment filed in a federal court in Delaware, Hunter Biden acknowledged that he was struggling with addiction to crack cocaine at that time. His battles with drug abuse and addiction have earlier been detailed as well. Hunter Biden, the son of US President Joe Biden, is seen.(AFP)

In the magazine piece, Hunter Biden detailed how he started drinking at an early age and fought to escape "a never-ending tunnel" of addiction.

Theres addiction in every family. I was in that darkness. I was in that tunnel -- its a never-ending tunnel. You dont get rid of it. You figure out how to deal with it, Hunter Biden told New Yorker.

Hunter began drinking in his teenage years and moved to smoking cigarettes and using cocaine during his college years at Georgetown.

Once, hoping to buy cocaine, he was sold a piece of crack. But he wasnt sure how to take the drug. 'I didnt have a stem,' Hunter said. 'I didnt have a pipe.' Improvising, he stuffed the crack into a cigarette and smoked it. 'It didnt have much of an effect,' he said, as per the report.

Hunter Biden was able to get sober for seven years in the 2000s before suffering a relapse in November 2010 when he "drank three Bloody Marys" during a flight home from a business trip to Spain, it claimed. He then continued this habit in secret, the magazine said, only going for treatment after his family's insistence. He experienced another relapse in 2013 after falling ill and being prescribed opioids. The report also talked about the breakdown of his marriage to ex-wife Kathleen.

A day after their twenty-second anniversary, Hunter left a therapy session, drank a bottle of vodka, and moved out. Later that month, Zlochevsky, the Burisma co-founder, invited him to Norway on a fishing trip. Hunter brought along Maisy and Beaus nine-year-old son, Robert. Hunter said that, every night, he and his colleagues on the trip drank a single shot of liquor before going to bed. Kathleen found out and was angry. Hunter began to confide in Hallie [Beau's widow], whom he was growing closer to, it said.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
US president Joe Biden's son Hunter was indicted on federal firearms charges as he was accused of lying about his drug use when he bought a firearm in October 2018. At that time, Hunter Biden has earlier acknowledged that he was struggling with an addiction to crack cocaine, according to the indictment filed in federal court in Delaware by the special counsel overseeing the case. Hunter Biden Indicted: US president Joe Biden's son Hunter is seen. (Bloomberg)

Joe Biden's son has also been under investigation for his business dealings. The special counsel indicated that charges of failure to pay taxes on time could be filed in Washington or in California while existing charges have been placed in Delaware.

Does this mean that Hunter Biden will be jailed?

If convicted on all counts, Hunter Biden could face as much as 25 years in prison and fines of up to $750,000, court filings show. But, this is the maximum penalty and is rare especially in a case like this that involves non-violent crime and an alleged first-time offense. The three-count indictment by the federal grand jury in Delaware accuses Hunter Biden of lying on an ATF form when he bought the gun, by falsely swearing that he wasnt addicted to illegal drugs or using illegal drugs.

Hunter Biden also lied to the federally licensed gun dealer in Wilmington where he bought the gun, as per the court filings. Joe Biden's son is also accused of illegally possessing the gun while using drugs or being addicted to drugs, a federal crime. He possessed the gun for 11 days in 2018, the court was told.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
US President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden was criminally charged on Thursday, after efforts to reach a plea deal failed, leading to the first-ever prosecution of a sitting president's child. President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden arrives for a court appearance,(AP)

Hunter Biden is accused of lying about his drug use when he bought a Colt Cobra handgun in October 2018, a period when he has acknowledged struggling with addiction to crack cocaine, according to the indictment filed in federal court in Delaware.

The indictment filed on Thursday US District Court in Delaware with three criminal counts related to making false statements in connection with the purchase of a firearm and illegally possessing the firearm as a drug addict.
Indias ambassador to the United States sought quick action after a recording revealed comments made by a Seattle PD union leader about the death of a young Indian woman who was killed by a police cruiser. In the body camera footage, the union leader is heard saying her life had limited value and the city should write a check. Jaahnavi Kandula was killed on January 23 by a speeding car being driven by a cop (GoFundMe)

Jaahnavi arrived in Seattle from Bengaluru, India, in 2021 to receive a masters degree, and was pursuing a Master of Science in Information Systems at the College of Engineering. She was set to graduate this December.

Jaahnavi was hit at the intersection of Dexter Avenue North and Thomas Street within moments of the car reaching the top speed, according to Fox13 Seattle. She was taken to Harborview Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries.

Heres everything you need to know about the case.

A horrifying body camera footage released in July captured the tragic death of Jaahnavi Kandula. She was killed on January 23. Behind the wheel of the vehicle that caused the tragedy was Seattle officer Kevin Dave. In a body camera video, one can hear a loud roar from the engine as Kevins speedometer showed an acceleration of up to 74 miles per hour. Jaahnavi, 23, was hit while she was crossing the road. Kevin was reportedly responding to a high priority call when the incident took place. He had chirped his siren, but did not have it running consistently, video footage released by prosecutors and published in part by PubliCola revealed. Reportedly, prosecutors have been weighing charges against Kevin for failing to warn others of the emergency nature of the situation. I fked up, Kevin was heard saying after the incident. Bodycam footage shows the officer performing CPR on Jaahnavi. Lights were on. I was chirping the sirensshe was in the crosswalk. She saw me, she started running through the crosswalk. Slammed on my breaks. Started staying back where she should before crossing, Kevin can be heard telling a responding officer. Kevin said in another bodycam footage, I can have a hundred minutes. I could havetheres nothing for me to do right now, but sit. And that is the fking worst thing thatyou just have to sit here. So many questions that are unanswered, so many questions. The Office of Police Accountability is continuing to investigate whether Kevin complied with department policy. Late in September, a body-worn camera captured Seattle Police Department union leader Daniel Auderer laughing and saying Jaahnavis life had limited value and the city should just write a check. Daniel, who is a drug recognition expert, was asked to examine whether Kevin was impaired, according to The Seattle Times. Daniel later called guild President Mike Solan to report what happened, following which he made the remarks. Eleven thousand dollars. She was 26 anyway, Daniel said, stating the Jaahnavis age inaccurately. She had limited value. Mikes remarks were not captured in the recording. Jason Rantz, a talk radio host on KTTH-AM, later said that he had obtained a written statement that Daniel provided to the citys Office of Police Accountability. Daniel reportedly said in the statement that his remarks were intended to mimic how the citys attorneys might react to the death. The Seattle Police Department wrote on its online blotter that the video was identified in the routine course of business by a department employee, who, concerned about the nature of statements heard on that video, appropriately escalated their concerns through their chain of command. After Jaahnavis death, her uncle, Ashok Mandula, of Houston, told The Seattle Times, The family has nothing to say. Except I wonder if these mens daughters or granddaughters have value. A life is a life.
US president Joe Biden's son Hunter was indicted for illegally buying a gun five years ago at a time when he admits he was using drugs heavily. Hunter Biden was charged with two counts of making false statements- claiming on forms that he was not using drugs illegally when he bought a revolver in Delaware. A third charge said that he illegally possessed the gun. This could lead up to 10 years in prison. The charges were filed by Justice Department Special Counsel David Weiss, who has been investigating Hunter Biden since 2018. US president Joe Biden, and his son Hunter Biden(AP)

The indictment came almost two months after a plea deal between Hunter Biden and David Weiss went sour over differences of whether the US president's son could face additional charges.

In the July deal, Hunter Biden agreed to plead guilty to two minor tax charges in exchange for probation as he had already paid what he owed the government along with penalties.

In the same deal, David Weiss also agreed to suspend the felony gun charge if Hunter Biden completed pretrial diversion- counseling or rehabilitation.

Why did the plea deal collapse?

The deal collapsed over the issue of whether Hunter Biden would have been immune from any other charges also investigated by the special counsel. These could include possible crimes related to his business dealings in Ukraine, China and other countries. Although, David Weiss dropped the tax charges and indicated in a court filing that new charges would be brought in other states as well.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who is on a visit to Russia, has now invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to his country during their talks, reported Pyongyang's state media KCNA (Korean Central News Agency), adding that Putin accepted the invitation. Russia's President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (REUTERS)

Also read: UN chief urges respect for North Korea sanctions after Putin visit

At the end of the reception, Kim Jong Un courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK at a convenient time. Putin accepted the invitation with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history and tradition of the Russia-DPRK friendship," the state media said, as quoted by news agency Reuters.

This came after the North Korean leader vowed full and unconditional support for Russia on Wednesday as the two leaders who are isolated by the West held a summit. Reportedly, Kim expressed his willingness to foster stable, future-oriented relations for the next 100 years.

Making an indirect but apparent reference to the war in Ukraine, Kim said, Russia is currently engaged in a just fight against hegemonic forces to defend its sovereign rights, security, and interests.

The Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea has always expressed its full and unconditional support for all measures taken by the Russian government, and I take this opportunity to reaffirm that we will always stand with Russia on the anti-imperialist front and the front of Independence, he said during the meeting between the two leaders that lasted over four hours, reported Bloomberg.

Both sides also agreed to further strengthen strategic and tactical cooperation in the face of the military threats, provocations, and tyranny of imperialists.

US, South Korea express concerns

The United States and South Korean officials have expressed concern that North Korea could provide weapons and ammunition to Russia amid the war in Ukraine - especially after the Kremlin gave numerous hints that the two leaders discussed military cooperation, but did not disclose details.

However, according to reports, Moscow and Pyongyang have denied such intentions.

The US State Department said that the Biden administration would not hesitate to impose any additional sanctions on Moscow and North Korea if they conclude any new arms deals, reported Reuters.

It was troubling that Russia is talking about cooperation with North Korea on programs that potentially would violate U.N. Security Council resolution, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said.

(With inputs from agencies)
Kim Jong Un's security detail spent several minutes disinfecting the chair that the North Korean leader sat on during a summit with Russian president Vladimir Putin, the Kommersant newspaper reported. Video footage published by the newspaper showed a North Korean security official in white gloves wiping down Kim Jong Un's black chair and spraying an unidentified substance. The person sprayed and wiped down the seat, the hands, the legs and even the area around the chair as a Kremlin bodyguard looked on. North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (L) meeting with Russia's President Vladimir Putin at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia.(AFP)

Another North Korean guard then gave some sort of order to the guard doing the disinfecting, it was seen. The nature of the order, however, was unclear.

"The chair turned out to be the subject of the greatest concern of the North Korean side," Kommersant's Kremlin correspondent, Andrei Kolesnikov, wrote.

Kim Jong Un's security detail included over 100 people and were also unhappy with the first chair after which another one - exactly the same - was produced by the Russian side, Kommersant reported.

"Then a North Korean employee wiped the chair intended for Kim Jong Un for several minutes without stopping, wearing white gloves: judging by the smell he disinfected it," it said, adding, "In the end, it was a matter of life and death for them, but not for their leader."

At the summit talks, Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un discussed military matters, the war in Ukraine and possible Russian help for North Korea's satellite programme. Kim Jong Un said he was confident Russia would win in what Moscow calls its "special military operation" in Ukraine.

"I am deeply convinced that the heroic Russian army and people will brilliantly inherit the tradition of victory, confidently demonstrate invaluable dignity and honour on the fronts of the special military operation," Kim Jong Un said.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The death toll in Libya's coastal city of Derna has soared to 11,300 as search efforts continue following a massive flood fed by the breaching of two dams in heavy rains, the Libyan Red Crescent said Thursday A view shows the damaged areas, in the aftermath of the floods in Derna, Libya.(Marwan Alfaituri via REUTERS)

Marie el-Drese, secretary-general of aid group, told The Associated Press by phone that a further 10,100 are reported missing in the Mediterranean city. Health authorities previously had put the death toll in Derna at 5,500.

The flooding swept away entire families on Sunday night and exposed vulnerabilities in the oil-rich country that has been mired in conflict since a 2011 uprising that toppled long-ruling dictator Moammar Gadhafi.

Here's a look at the latest developments.

WHAT HAPPENED IN LIBYA?

Daniel, an unusually strong Mediterranean storm, caused deadly flooding in towns across eastern Libya, but the worst-hit was Derna. As the storm pounded the coast Sunday night, residents said they heard loud explosions when two dams outside the city collapsed. Floodwaters gushed down Wadi Derna, a valley that cuts through the city, crashing through buildings and washing people out to sea.

A U.N. official said Thursday that most casualties could have been avoided.

If there would have been a normal operating meteorological service, they could have issued the warnings," World Meteorological Organization head Petteri Taalas told reporters in Geneva. "The emergency management authorities would have been able to carry out the evacuation.

The WMO said earlier this week that the National Meteorological Center had issued warnings 72 hours before the flooding, notifying all governmental authorities by email and through media.

Officials in eastern Libya warned the public about the coming storm and on Saturday had ordered residents to evacuate areas along the coast, fearing a surge from the sea. But there was no warning about the dams collapsing.

HOW DOES CONFLICT IN LIBYA AFFECT THE DISASTER?

The startling devastation reflected the storms intensity, but also Libyas vulnerability. Oil-rich Libya has been divided between rival governments for most of the past decade  one in the east, the other in the capital, Tripoli  and one result has been widespread neglect of infrastructure.

The two dams that collapsed outside Derna were built in the 1970s. A report by a state-run audit agency in 2021 said the dams had not been maintained despite the allocation of more than 2 million euros for that purpose in 2012 and 2013.

Libya's Tripoli-based Prime Minister Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah acknowledged the maintenance issues in a Cabinet meeting Thursday and called on the Public Prosecutor to open an urgent investigation into the dams' collapse.

The disaster brought a rare moment of unity, as government agencies across the country rushed to help the affected areas.

While the Tobruk-based government of east Libya is leading relief efforts, the Tripoli-based western government allocated the equivalent of $412 million for reconstruction in Derna and other eastern towns, and an armed group in Tripoli sent a convoy with humanitarian aid.

WHATS HAPPENING TODAY?

Derna has begun burying its dead, mostly in mass graves, said eastern Libyas health minister, Othman Abduljaleel earlier Thursday.

More than 3,000 bodies were buried by Thursday morning, the minister said, while another 2,000 were still being processed, He said most of the dead were buried in mass graves outside Derna, while others were transferred to nearby towns and cities.

Abduljaleel said rescue teams were still searching wrecked buildings in the city center, and divers were combing the sea off Derna.

Untold numbers could be buried under drifts of mud and debris, including overturned cars and chunks of concrete, that rise up to four meters (13 feet) high. Rescuers have struggled to bring in heavy equipment as the floods washed out or blocked roads leading to the area.

Libya's eastern based parliament, The House of Representatives, approved Thursday an emergency budget of 10 billion Libyan dinars  roughly $2 billion  to address the flooding and help those affected.

HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE BEEN KILLED?

As of Thursday, the Libyan Red Crescent said that 11,300 people have been killed, and a further 10,100 are reported missing.

However, local officials suggested that the death toll could be much higher than announced.

In comments to the Saudi-owned Al Arabia television station on Thursday, Derna Mayor Abdel-Moneim al-Ghaithi said the tally could climb to 20,000 given the number of neighborhoods that were washed out.

The storm also killed around 170 people in other parts of eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Um Razaz and Marj, the health minister said.

The dead in eastern Libya included at least 84 Egyptians, who were transferred to their home country on Wednesday. More than 70 came from one village in the southern province of Beni Suef. Libyan media also said dozens of Sudanese migrants were killed in the disaster.

IS HELP REACHING SURVIVORS?

The floods have also displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, according to the U.N.s International Organization for Migration, and several thousand others were forced to leave their homes in other eastern towns, it said.

The floods damaged or destroyed many access roads to Derna, hampering the arrival of international rescue teams and humanitarian assistance. Local authorities were able to clear some routes, and over the past 48 hours humanitarian convoys have been able to enter the city.

The U.N. humanitarian office issued an emergency appeal for $71.4 million to respond to urgent needs of 250,000 Libyans most affected. The humanitarian office, known as OCHA, estimated that approximately 884,000 people in five provinces live in areas directly affected by the rain and flooding.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said Thursday it has provided 6,000 body bags to local authorities, as well as medical, food and other supplies distributed to hard-hit communities.

International aid started to arrive earlier this week in Benghazi, 250 kilometers (150 miles) west of Derna. Several countries have sent aid and rescue teams, including neighboring Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia. Italy dispatched a naval vessel on Thursday carrying humanitarian aid and two navy helicopters to be used for search and rescue operations.

President Joe Biden said the United States would send money to relief organizations and coordinate with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support.
Two alleged non-human alien corpses were shown at a Mexico Congressional hearing. The specimens were displayed in glass cases to the politicians, researchers and experts who were in attendance at the event. Many experts have described this as an unsubstantiated stunt adding that the corpses were way too humanoid to be aliens. However, many experts have claimed that the event was an unsubstantiated stunt with no established claims.

Apparently, the politicians were told the specimens were found in the city of Cusco, Peru and were estimated to be about 1,000 years old.

Also Read: Do aliens exist? NASA's crucial report on UFOs set to be released today

UFO researcher and journalist Jaime Maussan testified under oath that almost a third of the corpses' DNA is unknown and the specimens are not part of our terrestrial evolution, reported the Mexican media.

They are not beings recovered from a UFO crash, said Jaime.

"Instead, they were found in diatom (algae) mines and subsequently became fossilised," he added.

Jaime also told the political delegates that specimens had been examined by experts at the Autonomous National University of Mexico.

According to him, scientists used radiocarbon dating to gather DNA evidence and X-rays had shown one of the two to have eggs inside.

Also Read: Why is no one talking about this? How X users reacted to display of two non-human alien corpses at Mexico Congress

However, many experts have claimed that the event was an unsubstantiated stunt with no established claims.

Brian Cox, physicist and presenter professor claimed that the specimens were very unlikely to be aliens.

The professor took to X (formerly Twitter) to explain his point, writing, They are way too humanoid. Its very unlikely that an intelligent species that evolved on another planet would look like us.

Additionally, he also condemned the research carried out prior to declaring the specimens as aliens saying, Secondly - send a sample off to 23andme - let alone the University down the road - and theyll tell you within 10 minutes.

Ryan Graves, a former US Navy pilot, claimed in July that the number of UFOs or UAPs (unidentified anomalous phenomena) was being grossly underreported was also present at the congressional meeting.

He as well was less than impressed by the quick no-show.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the space enthusiast wrote, Unfortunately, yesterdays demonstration was a huge step backwards for this issue.

Calling the demonstration an unsubstantiated stunt he added, I will continue to raise awareness of UAP as an urgent matter of aerospace safety, national security, and science, but I am deeply disappointed by this unsubstantiated stunt.
A NASA panel recommended in a report issued on Thursday that the U.S. space agency increase its efforts to gather information on unidentified objects in the sky - labeled "unidentified anomalous phenomenon," or UAP, by the government - and play a larger role in helping the Pentagon detect them. The unidentified object spotted in India

The agency, in a statement accompanying the report, said it was evaluating the independent study team's findings and recommendations but nonetheless created a new role, director of UAP research. The NASA panel, comprising experts in scientific fields ranging from physics to astrobiology, issued the report after holding its first public meeting in June.

UAP are better known to the public as unidentified flying objects, or UFOs.

"NASA has a variety of existing and planned Earth- and space-observing assets, together with an extensive archive of historic and current data sets, which should be directly leveraged to understand UAP," the report said.

"Although NASA's fleet of Earth-observing satellites typically lack the spatial resolution to detect relatively small objects such as UAP, their state-of-the-art sensors can be directly utilized to probe the state of the local earth, oceanic, and atmospheric conditions that are spatially and temporally coincident with UAPs initially detected via other methods. Thus, NASA's assets can play a vital role by directly determining whether specific environmental factors are associated with certain reported UAP behaviors or occurrences," the report said.

The U.S. government in the past few years has made several disclosures of information it has gathered regarding a subject that once was met by virtual official silence.

The new report called UAPs "one of our planet's greatest mysteries."

"Observations of objects in our skies that cannot be identified as balloons, aircraft or natural known phenomena have been spotted worldwide, yet there are limited high-quality observations. The nature of science is to explore the unknown, and data is the language scientists use to discover our universe's secrets," the report stated.

"Despite numerous accounts and visuals, the absence of consistent, detailed, and curated observations means we do not presently have the body of data needed to make definitive, scientific conclusions about UAP," it added.

It issued a watershed report in 2021 compiled by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence in conjunction with a Navy-led task force encompassing numerous observations - mostly from military personnel of UAP.

The report included some UAP cases that previously came to light in the Pentagon's release of video from naval aviators showing enigmatic aircraft off the U.S. East and West Coasts exhibiting speed and maneuverability exceeding known aviation technologies and lacking any visible means of propulsion or flight-control surfaces. The report said defense and intelligence analysts lacked sufficient data to determine the nature of some of the objects.

An independent NASA panel studying UAPs held its first public meeting in June, comprising experts in scientific fields ranging from physics to astrobiology. Challenges panel members cited to their work included a stigma attached to the subject as well as a dearth of scientifically reliable methods for documenting UFOs.

Two senior U.S. defense intelligence officials told a 2022 congressional hearing that the Pentagon was committed to determining the origins of UAPs. Both officials pledged that the Pentagon would follow the evidence wherever it leads and made clear that the primary interest is addressing possible national security threats.

Both officials in that hearing chose their words carefully including the question of possible extraterrestrial origins. One of the officials, Scott Bray, said during the hearing "we have no material, we have detected no emanations, within the UAP task force that would suggest it is anything non-terrestrial in origin." There had been no open congressional hearing on the subject since the Air Force terminated an inconclusive UFO program code-named Project Blue Book in 1969.

Another congressional hearing was held in July that included testimony from retired military personnel, though no government officials appeared.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Nasa released its findings from a long-awaited study on unexplained flying objects in Earths skies. The US space agency announced last year that it was reviewing evidence regarding unidentified anomalous phenomena, or UAPs - which has replaced the term UFO. The subject has long fascinated the public and the study could eventually usher in a new mission for NASA, moving away from debunking sightings to taking them more seriously. One of the two non-human alien corpses displayed at Mexico Congress(X(formerly Twitter)/@iohmbra)

When, the panel was asked to comment on two allegedly "non-human" corpses in Mexico- mummified specimens were displayed in glass cases as part of an official unveiling at Mexico's Congress in a hearing which has stirred excitement among UFO enthusiasts- study chair David Spergel said that he has only seen reports on Twitter (X) and "we don't know the nature of those samples".

He urged the Mexican government to make samples available to the world's scientific community.

"One of the main things we're trying to do here today is to move conjecture and conspiracy towards science and sanity and you do that with data," Dan Evans, an assistant deputy associate administrator for research, said.

In the Mexican Congress, the event was spearheaded by journalist and UFO researcher Jaime Maussan, who testified under oath that almost a third of their DNA is "unknown" and the specimens were not part of our terrestrial evolution.

"These specimens are not part of our evolutionary history on Earth," he said in his presentation to Mexican government officials and representatives from the US. They are not beings recovered from a UFO crash. Instead, they were found in diatom (algae) mines and subsequently became fossilised," he said.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
NASA UFO report LIVE Updates: NASA released its findings from a long-awaited study on unexplained flying objects. The US space agency announced last year that it was reviewing evidence regarding unidentified anomalous phenomena, or UAPs - which has replaced the term UFO. The NASA logo is seen at Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, US. (File image)(Reuters)

Read more: NASA UFO panel on 1,000-year-old 'alien corpses' in Mexico: Dont know but'

In an earlier essay on the NASA website, Neil deGrasse Tyson, an astrophysicist, said that it would be "egocentric" of humans to assume we are the only life in the universe. "At the moment, life on Earth is the only known life in the universe, but there are compelling arguments to suggest we are not alone," he asserted.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
The US asked Pakistan to hold free, fair and timely elections, and to respect human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law amid uncertainty over the date of conducting the polls. Responding to a question on Pakistan president Arif Alvis letter to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), US state department spokesperson Mathew Miller said, As we do with countries around the world, we urge Pakistan to hold free, fair and timely elections, and to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms and the rule of law." Pakistan Elections: A man carrying Pakistan's national flags, walks through a street on the eve of country's Independence Day celebrations in Peshawar.(AFP)

He also urged Pakistani authorities to move forward with the electoral process in a manner consistent with Pakistans laws.

In the letter, Arif Alvis suggested to the election body that polls should be held no later than November 6 as Pakistan's National Assembly was dissolved on August 9. The elections in the country should be held within the stipulated time of 90 days after the dissolution of the National Assembly.

However, the ECP decided to conduct a fresh delimitation of Constituencies on the basis of the new census, which has resulted in delaying the elections.

Arif Alvis missive was the fourth such letter written by the president to Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja regarding elections in the country.

On US and Pakistan ties, Mathew Miller said, Pakistan is an important partner, and we greatly value the relationship between our countries  both between our two governments and the people-to-people connections.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mallika Soni When not reading, this ex-literature student can be found searching for an answer to the question, "What is the purpose of journalism in society?" ...view detail
Ukraine said Thursday its forces had retaken a village near the war-battered city of Bakhmut in the eastern Donetsk region, several months into its grinding counteroffensive against entrenched Russian positions. Russia-Ukraine War: Servicemen of Ukraine's 3rd Separate Assault Brigade prepare to conduct a reconnaissance mission, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, near Bakhmut.(Reuters)

Kyiv began pushing back against Moscow's forces in the south and east of the country in June after building up Western weapons and recruiting assault battalions.

"We are moving forward in the Bakhmut sector. On the northern flank, the enemy is trying to recapture lost ground. On the southern flank, we are making progress," Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar, said on social media.

"And we have good news there -- Andriivka is ours. We are consolidating our positions," she added.

Bakhmut, a town that was once home to around 70,000 people, was captured by Russian forces in May following one of the longest and bloodiest battles of Russia's invasion.

Ukrainian forces, however, almost immediately began pushing back around the northern and southern flanks of the city and have been posting incremental gains.

Andriivka is around 14 kilometres (9 miles) south of Bakhmut, with an estimated pre-war population of fewer than 100 people.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Secessionist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) has announced a new date for the voting of the so-called Khalistan referendum in the town of Surrey in British Columbia. The referendum will now take place on October 29. SFJ had held another round of the referendum in Surrey on Sunday. (Representative file image)

The development comes days after the stand taken on pro-Khalistani activities by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre.

During G20, PM Trudeau defended Canadian Sikhs right to peacefully advocate for Khalistan, SFJs legal counsel Gurpatwant Pannun said in a release on Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had conveyed New Delhis strong concerns about continuing anti-India activities of extremist elements in Canada during his pull aside meeting with Trudeau in the national Capital on September 10 on the margins of the G20 Leaders Summit.

Also Read: SFJ holds Khalistan referendum in Canada as PM Modi flags extremism with Trudeau

However, speaking to media persons in Delhi, Trudeau said, Diaspora Canadians make up a huge proportion of our country, and they should be able to express themselves and make their choices without interference from any of the many countries that we know are involved in interference challenges.

Meanwhile, Poilievre, during an appearance at the Punjabi Press Club in the town of Surrey, said, Personally, I believe in a united India like I believe in a united Canada. But I believe people also have the freedom to disagree, he said as quoted by media outlet Weekly Voice.

Poilievre added, You can express any opinion, even opinions I dont agree with, and those opinions have to be expressed peacefully, but they can be freely expressed.

SFJ had held another round of the referendum in Surrey on Sunday.

The voting centre was the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in the town of Surrey, the same gurdwara which was headed by SFJs principal figure in the province Hardeep Singh Nijjar before he was gunned down by unidentified assailants on June 18 in the parking lot.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
A federal judge on Wednesday ruled that a new version of a federal policy that protects hundreds of thousands of immigrants who came to the U.S. as children from deportation is illegal. FILE - Susana Lujano, left, a dreamer from Mexico who lives in Houston, joins other activists to rally in support of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, also known as DACA, at the Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, June 15, 2022. A federal judge on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, declared illegal a revised version of a federal policy that prevents the deportation of hundreds of thousands of immigrants brought to the U.S. as children. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)(AP)

U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen sided with Texas and eight other states that sued to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, program.

The judges decision is expected to be challenged in the U.S. Supreme Court, where the programs fate has been decided twice before.

Hanen prohibited the government from approving any new applications, but allowed the program to continue for existing recipients during the likely appeals process. He said his order does not require the federal government to take any actions against DACA recipients.

The states have claimed the Obama administration did not have the authority to create the program in 2012 because it bypassed Congress.

In 2021, Hanen found the program illegal, saying it had not gone through the public notice and comment periods required under the federal Administrative Procedures Act.

ALSO READ| The next generation of leaders must take America, Mitt Romney wont seek Senate reelection, calls for new generation

The Biden administration attempted to address Hanens concerns with a new version of DACA that went into effect in October 2022 and was subject to public comments as part of a formal rule-making process.

But the U.S. District judge, who was appointed by then-President George W. Bush in 2002, found the updated version of DACA was still illegal. He had previously said DACA was unconstitutional and it was up to Congress to pass legislation to protect people under the program, often known as Dreamers.

Hanen also had previously ruled the states had standing to file their lawsuit because they had been harmed by the program.

The states have argued they incur hundreds of millions of dollars in health care, education, and other costs when immigrants are allowed to stay in the country illegally.

The states that sued are Texas, Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Nebraska, South Carolina, West Virginia, Kansas and Mississippi.

Those defending the program the federal government, the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, and the state of New Jersey had argued the states failed to show evidence that any of the costs they allege they have incurred have been linked to DACA recipients. They also argued Congress has given the Department of Homeland Security the legal power to set immigration enforcement policies.

Despite finding the DACA program illegal before, Hanen had kept the Obama-era program intact for those already benefiting from it. But he had ruled there could be no new applicants while appeals were pending.

There were 578,680 people enrolled in DACA at the end of March, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

ALSO READ| The chance of getting elected presidentis as close to zero, Ron DeSantis slams Donald Trumps legal woes

The program has faced a series of legal challenges over the years.

In 2016, the Supreme Court split 4-4 over an expanded DACA and a version of the program for parents of DACA recipients. In 2020, the high court ruled 5-4 that the Trump administration wrongly ended DACA, allowing it to remain in place.

In 2022, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans upheld Hanens earlier ruling finding DACA illegal, but sent the case back to him to review changes made to the program by the Biden administration.

President Joe Biden and advocacy groups have urged Congress to pass permanent protections for dreamers. Congress has repeatedly failed to pass proposals called the DREAM Act to protect DACA recipients.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said it was unlikely Republican frontrunner Donald Trump could win the White House if he is convicted in his criminal trials, offering some of his most strident comments yet on the former presidents legal challenges. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis distances himself from Donald Trump amid criminal trials New York City, U.S., September 11, 2023. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly(REUTERS)

I think the chance of getting elected president after being convicted of a felony is as close to zero as you can get, DeSantis said in an interview with the CBS Evening News with Norah ODonnell that aired on Wednesday.

DeSantis was asked if voters would elect someone facing a total of 91 criminal counts.

I didnt think even before all this that the president should  former president  should have run again, he said. Theres too many voters who hes a deal breaker for them.

Earlier: All the Charges and Possible Prison Time Trump Now Faces

FILE PHOTO: Former U.S. President Donald Trump is shown in a police booking mugshot released by the Fulton County Sheriff's Office, after a Grand Jury brought back indictments against him and 18 of his allies in their attempt to overturn the state's 2020 election results in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S., August 24, 2023. Fulton County Sheriff's Office/Handout via REUTERS.(via REUTERS)

DeSantiss tone marks a shift from earlier in the campaign when the Florida governor shied away from criticizing his chief rival for the GOP nomination.

In a July interview with CNN, DeSantis said he hoped Trump would not face charges in the Justice Departments investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 election. That interview was interspersed by reports on Trumps legal troubles, highlighting how they have overshadowed the Republican race and spurred prominent GOP figures to rally behind him.

ALSO READ| The next generation of leaders must take America, Mitt Romney wont seek Senate reelection, calls for new generation

DeSantis is a distant second to Trump in polls of Republican voters, with 12.9% in the RealClearPolitics average of polls to the former presidents 55.4%. DeSantis is performing better in early voting states like Iowa, where he only trails Trump by around 30 percentage points. But he has still struggled to close the gap with primary voting starting in four months when Iowa Republicans will caucus.

Trump last month was hit with his fourth round of criminal charges  in a case over his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss in Georgia. Thats in addition to two federal indictments in Washington DC and Florida, as well as a case in New York state court.
Mitt Romney, the Utah senator and former presidential candidate, announced on Wednesday that he will not seek another term in the Senate when his current one expires in January 2025. WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 13: Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT) answers questions in his office after announcing he will not seek re-election on September 13, 2023 in Washington, DC. Romney Called for a "new generation of leaders" while also criticizing both U.S. President Joe Biden and former U.S. President Donald Trump. Win McNamee/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by WIN MCNAMEE / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)(Getty Images via AFP)

In a video posted on X, formerly Twitter, Romney said he made the decision because he will be in his mid-80s by then and he believes it is time for a new generation of leaders to take charge.

They are the ones who need to make the decisions that will shape the world they will be living in, he said in the video.

Romney, 76, was elected to the Senate in 2018 after serving as the governor of Massachusetts and running for president in 2012. He has been a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump and was the only Republican senator to vote to convict him in his first impeachment trial in 2020. He also voted for impeachment in the second trial after the violent attack on the Capitol on Jan. 6.

ALSO READ| Meet the man who unveiled alien corpses at Mexico Congress: Who is UFOlogist Jaime Maussan?

The Utah senator said Wednesday that neither Trump nor President Joe Biden is leading their parties to address the challenges facing the nation.

Political motivations too often impede the solutions that these challenges demand, he expressed.

The next generation of leaders must take America to the next stage of global leadership.

Trump fired back saying that he was happy the Utah senator will not be seeking a second term in U.S. Senate, in a gritty tweet.

Fantastic news for the America, the great state of Utah, & for the Republican party. Mitt Romney sometimes referred to as Pierre Delecto will not be seeking a second term in U.S. Senate, where he did not serve with distinction.

Romney said he will continue to serve until the end of his term and will not retire early.

At a press conference in his office Wednesday, the 76-year-old acknowledged that Trump is still the dominant figure in the Republican Party, but he expressed hope that his party will eventually move on from him.

Theres no question the Republican Party today is in the shadow of Donald Trump. He is the leader of the greatest portion of the Republican Party, Romney said.

I represent a small wing of the Republican Party. If you will, I call it the wise wing of the Republican Party and I dont believe were going away.

I believe well see a resurgence and come back in the leadership of the party, he added.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., praised Romney as a colleague and said he was sorry to hear that he will not run again.

The Senate has been fortunate to call our friend from Utah a colleague these past four and a half years, and I am sorry to learn that he will depart our ranks at the end of next year, McConnell said.

ALSO READ| Elon Musk's new biography talks about his unique romantic request to Amber Heard

When asked about his legacy in 2019, shortly after he was elected, Romney said he was focused on doing what he felt was right. (According to US Today)

Im not going to worry so much, about the political consequence, or praise or lack thereof, he said.

And I hope that my kids down the road will say Yeah, you know our dad, our grandfather our great-grandfather was a person of integrity and honored his oath of office.
THERE WAS little hint in the speech that Xi Jinping gave on September 7th 2013 in Kazakhstan that he was thinking of a concrete-pouring binge across the world, spurred by hundreds of billions of dollars in Chinese loans and investment. No one predicted that the project would become a defining feature of his foreign policy and a dramatic symbol of Chinas rise as a global power. Mr Xi talked of building an economic belt along the ancient Silk Road linking China with Europe. He called for better infrastructure and reduced barriers to trade. If he had a grand plan, the lede was buried amid musings on history and Kazakh poetry. The West was in for a shock. PREMIUM In this file photo, visitors walk past a wall with a map showing the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries, at an exhibition in Beijing, China.. (REUTERS)

China is about to celebrate the projects tenth anniversary with fanfare. It will tout the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the schemes official name in English, as a gift to the world that has created huge economic benefits. China claims that 420,000 jobs have been created in BRI countries and 40 million people lifted out of poverty thanks to BRI-generated growth. America, and many of its allies, see the BRI as far less benign: a political tool aimed at stifling foreign criticism of Mr Xis iron-fisted rule and providing a leg-up for his countrys firms that has saddled countries with crippling debt. Among rich countries, Chinas BRI festivities will do nothing to allay anxieties. The highlight will be a Belt and Road Forum, which is due to take place in Beijing in October. World leaders have been invited, but none from the West is expected to attend. The most prominent guest will be Russias Vladimir Putin. His presence, alongside Mr Xi, will highlight what many in the West see behind the BRI veil: an attempt by China to sell an alternative model of development that eschews democracy and creates a world safe for dictators. In the build-up to the event, China has been struggling to keep on board the one G7 member that has signed up for the schemeItaly. Its deputy prime minister, Antonio Tajani, has just visited Beijing with a message: his country may pull out. More resistance is expected at a meeting of the G20 in Delhi on September 9th and 10th. President Joe Biden will offer an alternative vision of helping poorer countries by beefing up the role of the World Bank and the IMFinstitutions that his national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, said were founded on and continue to embody US leadership. These, he added, would provide the most bang for our buck in countering Chinas coercive and unsustainable lending. For unclear reasons, Mr Xi plans to skip the gathering. When the BRI was launched, there was little sense of an impending struggle between China and the West over something so innocent-sounding as building roads and railways, ports and pipelines. Mr Xis speech in Kazakhstan barely raised eyebrows. Neither did another one he gave in Indonesia, nearly a month later, in which he called for a maritime silk road. It was not until the following year that Mr Xi began using a shorthand for these two ideasone belt, one road. Some Western officials did wince at that: the term sounded too China-centric and simplistic for what was beginning to emerge as a complex scheme involving scores of countries. So China tweaked the name for foreigners (not in Chinese). In 2015 it became the BRI.' That was before relations between China and the West, already prickly and mistrustful, began to spiral downwards. Donald Trump would not become Americas president until 2017, unleashing a trade war with China that would become part of a broader campaign by America against Chinas norm-changing global behaviour. It was four years before the European Union began calling China a systemic rival. The mass internment of Xinjiangs Muslims and the sweeping clampdown on dissent in Hong Kong were still well in the future. Even in the West, China found open doors. Eighteen of the EUs 27 members have signed up to the BRI. One of them is Greece, which suffered an economic meltdown in 2009. China was already in place. In 2008 COSCO, a Chinese state-owned shipping giant, had reached an agreement to lease two container piers at Piraeus, the countrys main port, in the south of Athens. In 2016 Greece, then under pressure from its financial rescuers in the EU and the IMF to generate funds by privatising state assets, took a step further. It agreed to sell a 51% stake to COSCO in the entire facility. For the first time, a European port would be controlled by a Chinese firm. In 2021 it bought another 16%. China was triumphant. Its officials called Piraeus the dragon head of the BRI in Europe. After a visit in 2019, Mr Xi said the port was proof that the BRI was not a slogan or tale, but a successful practice and brilliant reality. It is certainly impressive. At the beginning of COSCOs involvement, Piraeus ranked 93rd among container ports worldwide. Now it is in the top 40. Colossal blue cranes, made in China, unload containers from ships that, pre-COSCO, would have been too big for the port to handle. Since the firm arrived and began a massive upgrade, container-handling capacity at Piraeus has grown more than four-fold. But if China had hoped that gaining control of a vital port would give it enduring political clout in a country that is a member both of the EU and NATO, it may be disappointed. After granting COSCO control, Greece blocked EU statements attacking Chinas behaviour in the South China Sea and its human rights record. However, a more pro-American government took over in 2019. Greeks no longer see China as a saviour for their economy. In fact, polls show an increasingly defiant Greek public, said a report in 2021 by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a think-tank in Washington. In recent years, attitudes towards China have changed considerably across Europe. The EU has tightened the screening of foreign investments for possible security risks. There are only a few big BRI projects in Europe. One is a high-speed rail line being built between Hungary and Serbia, funded by Chinese loans. Chinas eventual hope is to link it with Piraeus, but North Macedonia and Greece are still mulling how to proceed with their sections. Chinas presence is far more extensive in Africa, where it had been a big player long before the BRI was proposed. The scheme boosted Chinas involvement in big infrastructure projects, from railway lines to ports. Sub-Saharan Africa has soaked up a large share of BRI lending. But as countries have become laden with debt, many loans have turned sour. For China, Africa has become a financial quagmire.

China's Belt and Road

A trap for whom?

Chinas banks were willing lenders, but hard-nosed. Much of the credit was granted on commercial terms. The banks have been resisting Western calls to help African states by writing off some loans. But in June China joined other foreign government creditors in reaching a deal with Zambia over how to restructure billions of dollars in debt, much of it owed to China. That was a shift. China normally prefers to resolve such problems in secretive bilateral talks. Still, it did not agree to a haircut.

Some Western officials complain that China has been setting debt traps to ensnare unwary recipients of BRI lending: the idea being that when a borrower defaults, China can extract concessions, such as ownership of vital infrastructure. One alleged example involves a Chinese firms takeover in 2017 of Hambantota, a Chinese-built port in Sri Lanka, after the countrys government struggled with debt. But there is little proof of any deliberate trap having been laid, there or elsewhere. Rather, Chinas banks have been ensnaring themselves by lending without proper assessments of risk. Now they prefer to keep borrowers afloat rather than let them sink. Between 2016 and 2021 they extended $185bn in bail-out loans, according to a report by AidData, an American research group. It says that in 2010 less than 5% of Chinese lending abroad supported borrower countries in distress. By 2022 that figure had risen to 60%. Chinas banks have been relatively tough-minded about this kind of lending, too. AidDatawriting in Marchsaid interest on a rescue loan from the IMF was typically 2%. The average rate on a Chinese one was 5%. China may be learning lessons. Having reached a peak in 2016, its outbound lending has fallen, according to the Rhodium Group, another research firm. Chinas big banks are re-evaluating their lending practices after high-profile stumbles, it says. In 2020 Chinas new lending to African governments was less than $2bn. This was the lowest amount since 2004. It has been a similar story in Pakistan, a close ally, where a flagship BRI enterprise has involved talk of as much as $60bn of spending (though only about half has materialised) on megaprojects such as road upgrades and power plants. Known as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), it aims to stimulate trade across their mountainous border and down to the port of Gwadar more than 1,500km to the southwest. China has managed Gwadar since 2013, but the ports development has involved nothing like the success of Piraeus. It has been beset by militant violence and Pakistans political strife. The countrys binge of CPEC-related borrowing has helped to foment a debt crisis. It has been turning to the IMF, and China, for help. But China remains wedded to the CPEC idea. In countries around its borders, the BRI has an added layer of importance. China sees its help with infrastructure-building as a security guarantee as well as a commercial opportunity, in some cases providing alternative land routes for its energy imports that would bypass the Malacca Strait, a choke point that America could throttle. In Pakistans case, China hopes for multiple dividends. A prosperous Pakistan, it reckons, could act as a counterweight to India, Chinas rival. It would be less likely to foment violent extremism that could spill over into neighbouring Xinjiang. Western security experts speculate that Gwadar could become a base for Chinas navy (despite rumours, there is no firm evidence that it is building one there). In parts of the world, the BRI will become less bold and brash. But for security and economic reasons, China will keep pursuing the idea in its own backyard. The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), a think-tank in London, says that South-East Asia will be a particular focus. No region is more strategically important to China, it says. Amid growing tensions with the West, China is becoming more concerned about its economic security. It wants to use the BRI to create alternative markets for its goods and alternative links in its supply chains, the IISS says, particularly for Chinas high-tech products. South-East Asian countries are critical to those chains. Progress is being made. In 2021 China finished building a new rail line, costing nearly $6bn, connecting the Chinese city of Kunming with Vientiane, the capital of Laos, one of Asias poorest countries. The 422km section in Laos cuts through mountains still dotted with unexploded American bombs from the Vietnam War. Nearly half the track is in tunnels. In April passengers began using the line to cross the border. The journey from Vientiane to the Chinese frontier, once a bumpy day-long drive, is now a smooth 3.5-hour ride. Lao farmers have begun to plant high-value crops such as durians to sell to China by train. US dropped bombs in Laos, China builds railways, said a recent headline in Global Times, a tabloid in Beijing. This is a recurring feature of the BRIs message: China is benevolent and America is a bully. Among some people in Laos, it strikes a chord. China is the big brother that we can learn from, says Phouphet Kyophilavong of the National University of Laos. But polls suggest that in countries near to China, the public is more wary of Chinese influence, which they see as growing. In conversations in Vientiane, Lao analysts often criticise their government for failing to extract more benefits from Chinese projects. They say Laos spends so much on debt servicing that it has neglected critical needs such as education. Laos is up to its neck in debt. At the end of 2022 it owed $10.5bn to foreign lenders, the equivalent of 84% of its GDP. About half of the money had been borrowed from China. Last year Laoss foreign-currency reserves fell so low that it struggled to buy fuel. Credit-rating agencies warned that it was close to defaulting. China has allowed Laos to defer debt repayments. China sees the China-Laos railway as one leg of a much longer rail network that it hopes will eventually connect Kunming with Singapore. For China, the lines success will depend not on how it is used by Laoss population of 7.5m. Far more important is laying track through richer Thailand, which has ten times as many people. Work on that is underway, though completing the project region-wide will be dogged by messy politics in Thailand and Malaysia, tough negotiations over project terms (Laos was relatively easy-going) and wariness among some local lawmakers about being drawn too close to China. It can be difficult to discern what the BRI really is about. It is often compared to the Marshall Plan, Americas funding for rebuilding Europe after the Second World War. But it is not that. Very little BRI activity involves aid. Indeed, many BRI countries are relatively wealthy. Globally more than 150 have signed up for the scheme. About half of them are labelled as upper-middle or high-income by the World Bank. The silk-road language is misleading. There is no geographic bar to joining. But it is becoming clearer how it might morph. In 2015 China said the BRI would also create a digital silk road, a fancy way of describing the pursuit of business abroad by Chinese companiesstate and privatein industries such as telecommunications and cloud computing. The West, especially America, worries that China aims to capture markets with its low-priced, cutting-edge technologies in ways that could threaten Western security and intrude on personal freedoms. Americas tech battle against China is, in part, a response to such fears. As countries deal with debt shocks and China struggles with weaker growth at home, BRI language is becoming more cautious. In 2021 Mr Xi called for a new phase emphasising small but beautiful projects. These would have higher standards and better returns, and involve industries like green energy and digital infrastructure. China would stop building coal-fired power plants abroad, he said. Even during the pandemic, Chinas greenfield investments in digital technology abroad steadily increased, according to the IISS. In state media, new ideas proposed by Mr Xi have begun to vie with the BRI for attention. The Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilisation Initiative are concepts rather than action plans, but with strong implicit messages: that Chinas development model is better for poorer countries than Western templates stressing human rights, that Western military alliances threaten world peace and that criticism of Chinese communism amounts to a racist attack on Chinas ancient culture. But the BRI is far from being abandoned. In the build-up to next months summit in Beijing, a message is being promoted by Chinas official media. It is that the scheme is Mr Xis cherished project. As an obvious tribute to him, the Communist Party agreed in 2017 to enshrine the task of pursuing the BRI into its charter, thus making it a heresy to doubt it. Reports on state television showed Mr Xi visiting projects around the world, as if delivering Chinas wealth in person. An article in August praised him for opening up a happy road that benefits all countries. The BRI, in other words, has plenty of life left in it. Subscribers can sign up to Drum Tower, our new weekly newsletter, to understand what the world makes of Chinaand what China makes of the world.  2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com

Continue reading with HT Premium Subscription Daily E Paper I Premium Articles I Brunch E Magazine I Daily Infographics Subscribe Now @1199/year Already Subscribed? Sign In
Venice on Thursday again escaped the tarnish of UNESCO's list of world heritage sites in danger, drawing a victory cheer from the mayor but scorn from environmentalists and scientists alarmed by the impact of mass tourism and climate change on the storied lagoon city. The UNESCO World Heritage Committee recommended Venice for the list of sites in danger, citing the negative impact of mass tourism(Unsplash)

At a meeting in Saudi Arabia, member states disregarded expert findings that Venice's outstanding universal value was under a growing and increasingly urgent threat. Instead, they praised the city's conservation efforts, in particular a last-minute pilot project approved two days ago that will make Venice the first city to charge entry.

Venice similarly avoided joining the list of sites in danger two years ago after the Rome government announced a ban on big cruise ships past St. Marks Square and through the Giudecca canal.

Mayor Luigi Brugnaro welcomed the decision as proof that Venice is not at risk, calling the experts' recommendations misleading.

Civic groups, however, continue to emphasize the threat to Venice from mass tourism, which they say is transforming the city into a mere destination, depriving it of lifeblood as a thriving center that would attract both residents and new businesses.

The much-ballyhooed pilot project, charging 5 euros ($5.30) to day-trippers on 30 high-traffic days next year, only reinforces a low-brow image of Venice, they said.

When you see how beautiful Venice is, what an incredible lifestyle the city can offer, when mass tourism isnt killing it, you realize that Venice is to some extent wasted on short-term visitors, said Jane Da Mosto, executive director of the NGO We Are Here Venice. Venice is a place where more people should be able to live and create more lives and families and jobs and exciting work opportunities.

Expressing disappointment in UNESCO's decision, Da Mosto said the language used by some of the delegates made me think they might be using material provided by Italian diplomatic channels."

I really hope UNESCO will do something courageous to restore our hope in the convention governing world heritage sites, she said.

The Union of Concerned Scientists said the decision signals an alarming trend of nations not being held accountable for protecting some of the most iconic and irreplaceable natural and historic sites around the globe. It noted that Venice is increasingly vulnerable to severe flooding and water damage.

The city's 6-billion-euro underwater barriers, cited by several member states as evidence of Venices commitment to preservation, have been employed since severe flooding in 2019 to protect the city from the most serious flooding. But the project has been riven by corruption, cost overruns and long delays, and is not yet fully complete  a lapse noted by the experts.

As the UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting loomed, housing activists in Venice this weekend announced that the number of tourist beds had officially surpassed the number of residents: 49,693 to 49,304.

That imbalance drains the city of services and clogs the citys tight alleyways and water buses with suitcase-laden tourists, pushing more Venetians to move to the mainland, a trend that dates back decades.

Too much tourism is just a threat for our city,'' said Remi Wacogne, an activist with the OCIO civic observatory on housing. All sorts of measures should be taken, starting with regulating short-term rentals, which are responsible for most of the increase in tourist beds."

Venice officials, however, have failed to limit short-term rentals, despite being the only city in Italy allowed to do so under a special statute.

The UNESCO World Heritage Committee recommended Venice for the list of sites in danger, citing the negative impact of mass tourism, damage to the lagoon by large ships and oil tankers entering via the Malamocco canal, and climate change leading to more frequent high tides, as well as uncoordinated development.

After the decision, the committee reiterated its concerns, and underlined that further progress still needs to be made for proper conservation of Venice and its lagoon.

Italy has until December 2024 to present a detailed plan, which will be discussed at the World Heritage Committee meeting in 2025.

UNESCO officials have emphasized that a downgrade is not meant to be punitive, but to alert the world community that more needs to be done to address issues plaguing a World Heritage site.

Venice's top budget official, Michele Zuin, was defiant heading into the vote, telling The Associated Press that Venice wanted to avoid the endangered list. But it is not as if we are slaves of UNESCO.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has "gratefully accepted" North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's invitation to visit his country, the Kremlin said on Thursday, after the two men held a rare summit in Russia's Far East. Russian president Vladimir Putin.(Reuters)

The summit has stoked US concerns that a revived Moscow-Pyongyang axis could bolster Russia's military in Ukraine and provide Kim with sensitive missile technology.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Kim's visit to Russia would continue for several days. The Kremlin said Putin has now returned to Moscow from the Far East, where he showed Kim round Russia's most modern space launch facility.

Peskov described the summit between Putin and Kim as "timely, useful and constructive", and that Moscow would continue developing relations with Pyongyang.

He also confirmed that Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov would visit North Korea in October.
A video of the US police officer joking and laughing over the death of the Indian-origin student - Jaahnavi Kandula - in an accident in Seattle has taken the internet by storm, followed by a massive outrage. The Indian Consulate in San Francisco has also demanded a probe into the incident amid the uproar. Jaahnavi Kandula was killed on January 23 by a speeding car being driven by a cop

Who was Jaahnavi Kandula?

Jaahnavi Kandula who hailed from Andhra Pradesh was pursuing a masters degree from the Northeastern University campus in South Lake Union. She went to the US from Bengaluru on a student exchange program in 2021 and was due to graduate this December.

Kandula was the daughter to a single mother who taught elementary school, reported Seattle Times. Reportedly, her mother took on financial debt so that Kandula could travel to the United States and pursue her Master's degree.

Her priority was to help her family, Kandula's uncle told the Seattle Times.

What exactly happened?

On January 23, Jaahnavi Kandula - a 23-year-old graduate student from Northeastern University - was killed after she was hit by a patrol car driven by police officer Kevin Dave in Seattle. According to reports, Dave was driving the car at 74 mph (119 kmph) on the way to a report of an overdose when he hit Kandula at the intersection of Dexter Avenue North and Thomas Street. Reportedly, her body was thrown more than 100 feet (30 meters) away.

Immediately the student was taken to Harborview Medical Center, however, she succumbed to her injuries, according to reports.

Outrage over US cop mocking Kandula's death

A massive outrage broke out after the Seattle Police Department released footage from accused officer Daniel Auderer's body camera on Monday in which he can be heard joking and laughing about the incident.

In the video clip, Auderer - who serves as vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild - was reportedly talking about the accident in a call with the guild's president Mike Solan. He laughed several times after saying she is dead.

Toward the end of the clip, the officer can be heard saying, Yeah, just write a check. Eleven thousand dollars. She was 26 anywayShe had limited value.

Reportedly, Auderer also told Solan that Dave's (the accused officer) vehicle was going 50 and that was not out of control.

India demands probe

Meanwhile, India on Wednesday demanded a thorough investigation into the incident amid the uproar.

Recent reports including in media of the handling of Ms Jaahnavi Kandulas death in a road accident in Seattle in January are deeply troubling. We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle & Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington DC .. for a thorough investigation & action against those involved in this tragic case. The Consulate & Embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all concerned authorities, the Consulate General of India in San Francisco wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
MEXICANS ARE used to their country being used as a pinata during American election seasons. In 2015, in a speech to launch his presidential campaign, Donald Trump accused Mexico of sending drug traffickers, rapists and other criminals to America and promised to make Mexicos government pay for a wall along the border. His comments look almost friendly compared with the rhetoric this year. At the first Republican primary debate on August 23rd, nearly all the candidates spoke in favour of bombing the laboratories of drug gangs south of the border, which make fentanyl, a synthetic opioid. Ron DeSantis , Floridas governor, said he would send special forces into Mexico on day one in the (unlikely) event that he was to win the presidency. Why? PREMIUM FILE - The Republican National Committee logo is shown on the stage as crew members work at the North Charleston Coliseum, Jan. 13, 2016, in North Charleston, S.C. The first 2024 Republican presidential debate is on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023, at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Rainier Ehrhardt, File)(AP)

America is in the midst of an overdose epidemic. Since fentanyl started claiming lives in 2014, the drug has been the biggest killer of 18- to 45-year-old Americans. It is 50 times stronger than heroin. Some 70,000 Americans died from synthetic opioids in 2021almost all of those deaths involved fentanyl, which is often mixed with other drugs. Most of the fentanyl they consumed is believed to come from south of the border. Drug gangs, predominantly the Sinaloa cartel based in the north-west of Mexico, import chemical precursors from China to cook into fentanyl in clandestine labs. Making fentanyl is a profitable business. Americas Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reckons it costs the Sinaloa cartel just ten cents to make a pill that they can then sell wholesale to dealers for 50.

Still, the clue to the hardening of Republican attitudes towards Mexico lies less in these facts than in politics. And, as with so much to do with the Republican Party, the source is Mr Trump. According to a memoir by Mark Esper, his former defence secretary, the then-president mused more than once during his term about firing missiles at Mexican cartels drug labs. (No one would know it was us, he supposedly said, unconvincingly.) Like many of Mr Trumps ideas, the outlandish has become Republican mainstream as his contenders try to outdo him in hawkishness. It does not help that in 2020 Mexicos president, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, limited the work of DEA agents in his country. More recently, he has claimed that no fentanyl is made (or consumed) in Mexico, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.

Despite the mendacious comments on both sides of the border, bilateral cooperation on fentanyl is going fairly well. In May Mexico passed tough legislation that increases controls on imports of chemicals that can be used to make fentanyl; this month it also signed up to a UN anti-trafficking programme. Though this is far from the heyday of collaboration between 2006 and 2012, in the past few years Mexican security forces have worked more closely with their American counterparts to cut off financing for drug bosses, arrest them and even kill them. In April American prosecutors indicted 28 people involved in the fentanyl trade, including members of the Sinaloa cartel. Bombing Mexico would almost certainly fail to deal with the problem, and would vandalise relations with Americas biggest trading partner. But that may not mean cool heads will prevail if Mr Trump were to win the presidency again. If split open, this pinata will not be full of sweet things.

 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
(Photo : Antonio Masiello/Getty Images)

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni signals plans to separate from China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) but reassures continued relations with Beijing.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni signaled plans to separate from China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), noting that a final decision on the matter is still being discussed.

Earlier in the day, Italian media reported that the nation would end its involvement with Beijing's BRI and revitalize a strategic partnership agreement with China instead. It would seek to foster economic cooperation, first signed in 2004.

Italy's Relations With China

Italy is currently the only G7 nation that has signed up to China's BRI, a global trade and infrastructure plan modeled on the old Silk Road that linked imperial China and the West.

Next year, Italy will hold the G7 presidency, and recasting its relationship with Beijing is expected to appease its Western allies. The latter is concerned about China's rising influence, and the move is set to reduce the risk of backlash from the Asian superpower, as per Reuters.

In a statement during a press conference following the G20 summit of the world's major economies in New Delhi, Meloni said that there are European nations in the last few years that have not been part of the BRI but have gained favorable relations with China than what Italy, which is a part of the initiative, has sometimes managed.

On Saturday, the Italian prime minister also met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang on the sidelines of the G20 summit and described the talks as polite and constructive. She added that the issue now is how to guarantee a beneficial partnership for both parties involved, leaving aside her nation's decision regarding the BRI.

The Italian prime minister noted that China's government renewed an invitation for her to visit Beijing but said they had not set a date yet. The Italian government has also received an invitation to a BRI Forum that Beijing will host in October.

Read Also: G20 Summit: Delhi Police Website Hacked by Pakistan Hackers

Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative

Meloni's office issued a statement on Saturday where she mentioned the 20th anniversary of a separate Global Strategic Partnership next year that was initially signed by China and a government led by Silvio Berlusconi in 2004, according to Yahoo News.

Italy is poised to pursue an otherwise strong economic relationship with China, even with the possibility of ending its ties with the BRI. Meloni also acknowledged that the issue is delicate and must be carefully managed due to bilateral trade and international relations.

The situation comes as China has tried to tout the initiative's benefits. Foreign Minister Wang Yi told Antonio Tajani last week that bilateral trade has grown from roughly $50 billion to nearly $80 billion. The former also noted that Italy's exports to China had increased nearly 30% over the past five years.

However, the Italian foreign minister recently said they have not seen great results from the initiative. He also stressed that Italy was still intent on reinforcing trade with China even if lawmakers decide that they want to stop their involvement with the BRI, said the Associated Press.

Related Article: Biden Forges Strategic Partnership With Vietnam Amid China's Expanding Influence

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
A new Google layoff is now targeting the company's recruitment department.

The search engine giant's latest cost-cutting effort is expected to terminate hundreds of its employees who helped hire new workers.

Google To Terminate Recruitment Division Employees

This September, Google is the latest tech giant to announce a mass layoff affecting hundreds of its employees. According to CNN Business, the termination in its recruitment division is its newest after its parent company, Alphabet, laid off around 6% (12,000 staff) of its workforce in January.

Recently, Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced that they are continuously slowing their recruitment and expense growth pace.

"To ensure we operate efficiently, we've made the hard decision to reduce the size of our recruiting team," said the tech executive on Wednesday, September 13.

However, most of the employees in the hiring department will be retained so that Google can continue recruiting top engineering talents and other critical roles.

"We continue to invest in top engineering and technical talent while also meaningfully slowing the pace of our overall hiring," said Pichai.

The search engine giant didn't disclose the exact number of affected employees. It only clarified that the latest termination plan is not a part of any wider-scope layoffs.

Google promised that they will support those who will lose their jobs with severance pay and other benefits. On LinkedIn, numerous Google recruiters in the user experience, software engineering, cloud, and other teams already confirmed that they are affected by the latest layoff.

"We continue to invest in top engineering and technical talent while also meaningfully slowing the pace of our overall hiring," said one of the affected Google staff.

Read Also: Tesla's India EV Component Sourcing Could Reach Almost $2 Billion; Indian Commerce Minister Shares Details

Employees in Tech Industry Still Experience Terminations

This 2023, Tech Crunch reported that tens of thousands of employees in the technology industry are still experiencing terminations.

In January, over 89,000 workers lost their jobs. Meanwhile, more than 40,000 employees were laid off in February. These are just some of the unlucky staff terminated by tech companies. You can check the list below to see how many more were laid off in the past few months:

March: 37,823

April: 20,014

May: 14,928

June 10,958

July: 10,589

August: 9,545

Overall, over 224,000 workers in the tech sector lost their jobs due to the cost-cutting efforts of Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and other tech giants. But, based on the above numbers, there's a downward trend. This means the layoffs could further decrease as the year nears.

Related Article: Targeted UAW Strikes Could Happen-Here's What Could Trigger Protests

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : NOAA via Getty Images)

Hurricane Lee continues to threaten much of coastal New England with heavy rains and powerful winds as it continues on its path.

Hurricane Lee is threatening much of coastal New England with heavy rains and powerful winds as the storm continues on its path, inching closer and closer.

Officials issued the tropical storm watch on Wednesday for much of coastal New England, Watch Hill to Stonington, including Block Island, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket. The National Hurricane Center and the National Weather Service (NWS) said they expect "an increasing risk of wind, coastal flooding, and rain impacts from Lee in portions of New England."

Hurricane Lee Update

On the other hand, Southern New England is facing another round of flooding brought on by a powerful storm. The NWS also issued a tornado warning late Wednesday, saying it would continue for Greenville, Chepachet, and Harmony, all of which are in Rhode Island.

The weather service's website also issued a tornado warning for East Central Windham County in northern Connecticut and Western Providence County in Rhode Island.

According to CNN, the National Hurricane Center said that a hurricane watch has been issued for eastern Main as hurricane conditions, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding are possible in portions of the region on Saturday.

In a statement on Wednesday, Maine Gov. Janet Mills urged residents of the state to "exercise caution and to take common-sense steps to ensure that they have all they need to stay safe as the storm draws closer."

Additionally, the hurricane center warned that there is the possibility for "life-threatening storm surge flooding" in some parts of southeastern Massachusetts. This includes areas such as Cape Cod and Nantucket and would be sometime late Friday and Saturday.

Officials expect that Hurricane Lee's winds could come as early as Friday evening for several areas in New England. The powerful storm, which remained a Category 2 hurricane on Wednesday evening, was located around 370 miles south-southwest of Bermuda.

Read Also: Hawaii: Kilauea Volcano Erupts Third Time This Year After Two Months of Calm

Powerful Storm

Ahead of Lee's brush with Bermuda on Thursday, a tropical storm warning remains in effect for the island. According to CNN, it added that the center of the powerful storm is forecasted to pass west of Bermuda on Thursday and will then approach the coast of New England and Atlantic Canada on Friday and Saturday.

While officials expect Hurricane Lee to weaken with time, its impacts beyond its center will be significant due to its massive size. It has grown severely since the weekend. Officials warned that hurricane-force winds can extend outward up to 115 miles from the center, while tropical-storm-force winds can extend outward up to 265 miles from the center.

While powerful, Hurricane Lee is nowhere near how it was when it was still a Category 5 hurricane over the open Atlantic. But meteorologists warn that it could still significantly impact the areas it will pass through.

There have only been six hurricanes in history that have experienced similar levels of rapid strengthening as Hurricane Lee has. Accuweather said these include 2005's Hurricane Wilma, 2017's Hurricane Maria, and 2020's Hurricane Eta.

Related Article: Offshore Wind Power Boom on US East Coast Raises Questions About Impact on Marine Life

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Jill and I send our love and prayers to Congresswoman Mary Sattler Peltola on the sudden death of her husband, Eugene "Buzzy" Peltola, Jr., earlier today in a plane accident in Alaska.

Back in May, Mary and Buzzy hosted Jill during a visit to a rural high school in their hometown of Bethel, Alaska. On Monday, Mary and their daughter Kaeli joined me during a visit with troops stationed in Anchorage to commemorate the twenty-second anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks on our nation.

READ ALSO: Readout of President Biden's Engagement with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu

Spend even a minute with Mary and you'll feel the love she has for her state and its people, and most of all, the love she has for her husband and their seven children. Buzzy was a devoted public servant and in the tributes coming from all over the state today, he is being remembered as a friend to all. But we know he was, first and always, the adored and devoted husband and father to a family now in pain.

On Monday, Mary flew back with me to Washington on Air Force One with the whole world ahead of her. Today, I spoke with her with that world shattered in shock and sadness. To the family - such a loss is cruel and unfair, and the first hours, days, and weeks will be the hardest. But we hope you remember that he will always be with you. And we pray the day will come when his memory will bring a smile to your lips before it brings a tear to your eyes. It will take time, but that day will come.

In the difficult time ahead, we keep you in our prayers.

May God bless Eugene "Buzzy" Peltola, Jr.

READ MORE: Readout of President Biden's Engagement with President Joko Widodo of Indonesia

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and other state officials contradicted recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding new COVID-19 booster shots.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' administration contradicts the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding the new COVID-19 booster shots that are advised to be given to people younger than 65.

Despite the health agency's recommendations, the state's health officials are advising people in the age group not to get the new vaccine booster. The new shots are being advised due to the rise in infections across the United States.

Florida Contradicts CDC Recommendations

The DeSantis administration advised against the new shots on Wednesday, with the governor saying that he would not stand by and let the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the CDC use healthy Floridians as guinea pigs for new booster shots that have not yet been proven to be safe or effective.

The Republican lawmaker added that his state is the first in the United States to stand up and provide guidance based on truth and not Washington edict. During a panel discussion on Wednesday, Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo announced the state's new vaccine guidelines, as per Yahoo News.

Ladapo argued that officials approved the new COVID-19 booster shot without "meaningful" clinical trial data performed in humans and without necessary proof that it is safe or effective. He added that at this point, with the amount of immunity already in the community, he judges that injecting young people and those not at risk is not a good decision.

Stanford professor Jay Bhattacharya also attended the roundtable and said that the health agency's statement on the new COVID-19 booster is "absolutely not supported yet." He said that while he is not saying that the statement is untrue, it is still unknown.

The CDC's recommendation came this week and urges all Americans six months and older to get the COVID-19 booster shot. By Friday, the shots will be available by leading pharmaceutical companies Pfizer and Moderna.

Ladapo previously issued warnings against COVID-19 vaccines, which prompted a public letter from federal health agencies that said his claims were harmful to the public. The letter, which the FDA and the CDC signed, notes that it is the job of public health officials across the nation to protect the lives of the populations that they serve, according to the Associated Press.

Read Also: Georgia Hormone Therapy Ban: Federal Judge Blocks Law Banning Gender-Affirming Care for Minors

Dangerous Opposing Stance

The medical professional received his medical degree and a Ph.D. in health policy from Harvard University. He previously worked as a doctor and health policy researcher at UCLA when DeSantis appointed him in September 2021. Since then, he has attracted national scrutiny over his close alignment with the Republican governor's opposing stance on COVID-19 vaccine mandates and other health policies.

The CDC said on Tuesday that vaccination remains the best protection against the coronavirus and preventing hospitalization and deaths related to the disease. Additionally, vaccination reduces people's chances of suffering the effects of long COVID.

On Wednesday, CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen retaliated against criticism and opposition to the latest recommendations. She noted that Florida's move was "dangerous," adding that Americans must get updated COVID-19 vaccines ahead of the fall and winter seasons, said NBC News.

Related Article: FDA Approves New Vaccines From Pfizer, Moderna

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Antonio Masiello/Getty Images)

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's commitments are being tested as thousands of migrants arrived on the island of Lampedusa on Wednesday.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's commitments are being tested as thousands of migrants arrive at the Mediterranean island of Lampedusa and seek asylum while moving north to other European Countries.

The situation comes after the prime minister made pledges to thwart illegal migrants in the region that have pressured the Coast Guard's capability to intercept smugglers' vessels. The flotilla of flimsy boats carried crowded migrants who came from Tunisia and arrived on the southern Italian island on Wednesday.

Italy's Migrant Situation

Germany and France also made vows to rebuff migrants who arrive by sea on Italian shores, compounding the political pressure on the latter's first far-right leader. Additionally, in defiance of European Union asylum system rules, the migrants head northward to try to find jobs or relatives in those and other northern countries on the continent.

The unseaworthy, unstable iron boats came one after the other starting on Tuesday in what seemed to be almost a procession to onlookers living on Lampedusa. The Mediterranean island is a fishing and tourist island found south of Sicily, per Euronews.

There were roughly 6,800 migrants who arrived on the island in 24 hours, which is a number that is only a few hundred higher than the island's full-time population. One factor causing the surge in the number of migrants was a bottleneck in Tunisia's ports that lasted for several days.

Due to the Mediterranean island's sole migrant residence having a capacity of only 450 beds, authorities scrambled to transfer the asylum seekers via commercial ferries or a coast guard ship to Sicily or Calabria.

A spokeswoman for the Italian Red Cross located on Lampedusa, Francesca Basile, said that they were actively trying to provide basic services for the thousands of migrants at the center on the island.

Italian Transport Minister Matteo Salvini noted that by Wednesday evening, there were roughly 120 boats that arrived at the Italian island. Earlier that day, the coast guard tried to assist one boat, but the smugglers' vessel suddenly tipped over, according to ABC News.

Read Also: Cruise Ship Touting "State-of-the-Art" Navigation Runs Aground in Greenland

Testing Giorgia Meloni's Commitments

They discovered that a mother with her five-month-old baby fell into the sea and was immediately rescued. However, while the woman, who was from Guinea and was in shock, survived, her child died.

Additionally, some migrants scuffled over food and bottles of water that the Red Cross distributed. At one point, police waved their batons at the migrants to force them to move back so that others could be put onto buses to take them to other points of the island to ease the crowding.

The country's migrant situation has seen roughly 118,500 sea migrants landing on Italian shores since Jan. 1, 2023. It was found to be a near-record figure that has shaken up Meloni's election campaign pledges.

Recently monitored arrivals near the peak recorded in 2016, based on current trends, when roughly 181,500 sea migrants arrived in Italy. From January to August of that year, officials reported that there were roughly 115,000 landings, compared to the 114,526 recorded in the same period this year, said Reuters.

Related Article: Mexico's 'Narco Queen,' El Chapo's Wife Emma Coronel Released from Prison

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : IKTOR KOROTAYEV/Kommersant Photo/AFP via Getty Images)

TOPSHOT - A picture shows detonation of ammunition caused by a fire at a military training field in the Kirovsky district of Crimea on July 19, 2023. Russian President Vladimir Putin has been informed about a fire at a military site in Moscow-annexed Crimea that forced authorities to evacuate thousands of civilians on July 19, 2023, the Kremlin said. News of the blaze came two days after Ukraine used waterborne drones to attack the Kerch bridge, a key military supply artery from mainland Russia to annexed Crimea. Authorities ordered the evacuation of over 2,000 residents from areas near the military field. A section of the Tavrida highway -- connecting the eastern Crimean port of Kerch to the port of Sevastopol on the peninsula's Black Sea coast -- was closed due to the fire.

A Ukrainian attack on the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea Fleet in Crimea damaged two ships and sparked a large blaze at an extensive naval facility that played a crucial role in the Russian war effort.

The Wednesday pre-dawn attack appeared to be the largest on the Russian naval headquarters in the occupied port city of Sevastopol since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine nearly 19 months ago, highlighting Ukraine's growing ability to strike targets deep within Russian-held territory.

Ukraine Says Russian Naval Vessels Badly Damaged

The Russian Ministry of Defense stated in a statement that Ukraine had simultaneously launched 10 cruise missiles at the facility and three maritime drones at a Russian warship in the Black Sea. Per the NY Times, the ministry stated that air defense systems fired down seven cruise missiles, and the patrol ship Vasily Bykov obliterated the unmanned drones.

Only after locals uploaded images of explosions and raging flames at the Sevmorzavod shipyard on social media did Moscow finally acknowledge a successful Ukrainian attack in Crimea.

Later, the Russian-backed governor of Crimea, Mikhail Razvozhaev, shared a photo that appeared to show the port side of a large landing ship ablaze, though the extent of the damage was unknown. Lt. Gen. Mykola Oleshchuk, commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, speculated that a long-range airstrike played a role in the assault.

According to Russian military bloggers and a Russian news outlet, the assault damaged an enhanced Kilo-class attack submarine, the Rostov-on-Don, and a Ropucha-class landing ship, the Minsk. The predawn attack highlighted Kyiv's expanding missile capabilities as Russia continues to bombard Ukraine with long-range missiles and attack drones from afar.

The city is home to the Black Sea fleet, which the Kremlin employs to project influence into the Middle East and Mediterranean and, during the Ukrainian conflict, to impose a de facto blockade on Ukraine's seaborne food exports through the Turkish straits.

Read Also: Russian Missile Strikes Two Foreign Aid Workers in Eastern Ukraine Amidst Overnight Drone Barage

Black Sea Grain Deal

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated recently that he would not renew an agreement enabling Ukraine to export grain through the Black Sea safely until the West met Moscow's demands regarding its own agricultural exports.

Ukraine has attempted to counter the fleet's naval dominance by assaulting with explosive-laden sea drones, but Russia has continued to use its warships to launch missile attacks against Ukraine throughout the more than 18-month-long conflict.

It was not obvious what kind of missile was used by Kyiv in the attack on Sevastopol, which lies about 300km (185 miles) from Ukraine's Black Sea port of Odesa.

According to Ryzhenko, Ukraine may have employed Neptune anti-ship missiles modified for use against ground targets. He added that British-supplied Storm Shadow cruise missiles were also a possibility. The Ukrainian military, which launched a counteroffensive at the beginning of June, publicly claimed responsibility for the attack, something it does not typically do.

At least 24 persons were injured, according to Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-appointed governor of Sevastopol, the largest city in Crimea and a significant Black Sea port. According to The Guardian, he uploaded an image of what appeared to be port infrastructure engulfed in flames at night. Russian Telegram channels shared videos and additional images of a facility by the water engulfed in flames.

Related Article: Russia Conducts 'Sham Elections' in Occupied Ukrainian Regions; West Sharply Criticizes Move

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Taiwan has criticized Elon Musk for his latest comments on China, rebuking the Tesla and X boss for saying that Taiwan was an integral part of China.

Musk made the remarks during his appearance at the All-in Summit in Los Angeles this week.

"Their (Beijing's) policy has been to reunite Taiwan with China," he said. "From their standpoint, maybe it is analogous to Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China mostly because...the US Pacific Fleet has stopped any sort of reunification effort by force."

This is the latest in a series of comments the billionaire made in the long-standing tension between Beijing and Taipei, as per Reuters. Last October, Musk suggested that tensions between China and Taiwan could be resolved by handing over some control of Taiwan to Beijing, which Taipei has similarly criticized.

Read Also: China's Current Map of the South China Sea Rejected by Philippines, Taiwan, Malaysia

Taiwan's Foreign Minister to Musk: Persuade China to 'Open X,' Other Western Sites

Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu retorted Wednesday (September 13), urging Musk to ask China to "open @X to its people," referring to the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, which the Tesla boss also owns. Wu also urged Musk to tell Beijing to open other Western sites to the Chinese people.

Taipei's top diplomat also stressed to Musk, who has cordial relations with Chinese officials, that Taiwan is "not for sale."

"Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off @Starlink to thwart Ukraine's counter-strike against Russia," Wu added, referring to Musk refusing a Ukrainian request to activate his Starlink satellite network in Crimea's port city of Sevastopol last year to aid an attack on Russia's fleet there.

Since then, Ukraine has allegedly used military jets to deliver cruise missiles in this week's attack on the major Black Sea port, which damaged at least two Russian warships.

Taiwan's democratically-elected government has repeatedly stressed it strongly rejected China's sovereignty claims, saying only the Taiwanese people could decide for their future.

Related Article: Musk Gains Putin's Endorsement: 'He Is an Outstanding Person'

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
With the confiscation of roughly 14 tons of the highly addictive stimulant Captagon and the arrest of six individuals, Dubai customs authorities disrupted what was possibly the biggest drug smuggling enterprise in the Middle East.

The United Arab Emirates minister of the interior, Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, made the announcement on X (formerly Twitter) that the pills, with a street value of over 4 billion dirhams ($1.1 billion), were concealed within 651 doors and 432 ornamental panels and delivered aboard five containers.

'Poor Man's Cocaine'

Captagon, sometimes known as "poor man's cocaine," is an amphetamine-like stimulant that may provide increased energy and alertness, along with feelings of euphoria and even invulnerability.

The drug is simple to produce, which has contributed to its rapid rise to prominence amongst Middle Eastern youth and low-wage construction workers. It has also been linked to extremists in Syria and Iraq.

According to Bloomberg, a video showing the suspects smuggling the stash out of Dubai and into a neighboring emirate was published on Thursday, September 14. Authorities said they caught them "red-handed," although the UAE's proclamation did not specify the identity of the perpetrators or where the containers had come from.

According to the US State Department and Treasury, the UK Foreign Office, and independent researchers, Captagon is primarily produced and trafficked by people with ties to Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad and his ally, the Lebanese militia Hezbollah. The pills are sold for between $3 and $25 per tablet.

Captagon has become an essential source of income for Assad and his inner circle, who have been under severe Western sanctions since their deadly assault on demonstrators in 2011.

The New Lines Institute, located in Washington, DC, estimates that Captagon trafficking has produced between $7 billion and $10 billion in revenue over the previous three years, with most of the earnings going to Assad and his friends in neighboring Lebanon.

Samih al-Maaytah, a former minister of information in Jordan, told Al Jazeera last week, "Captagon is vital for the Syrian regime, Assad's family, militias and institutions in the army. They're all profiting from it."

See Also: Dubai Authorities Arrest Man for Drug Smuggling Attempt; Marijuana Kept in Cereal Bags

Dubai's Biggest Drug Bust in Recent Years?

In terms of sheer size, Dubai's Captagon haul is the third-largest in the recent past.

In 2021, after being informed by their Saudi Arabian colleagues, Malaysian officials seized 95 million pills worth an estimated $1.2 billion that had been smuggled into the country hidden within rubber trolley wheels.

The 84 million pills worth $1.1 billion that were confiscated in Italy the year before weighed nearly 14 tons. They smuggled themselves into the Italian city of Salerno from the Syrian coastal city of Latakia by hiding in containers of paper rolls and metal gears.

Meanwhile, in June, Dubai Customs also arrested a guy who had attempted to smuggle seven kilograms of marijuana through the airport by concealing it in cereal boxes.

See Also: SG Hangs First Woman in 19 Years After Finding Her Guilty of Trafficking Heroin

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
BANGKOK, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Thailand has approved a temporary visa waiver for visitors from China and Kazakhstan during the year-end high season in support of its vital tourism industry.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Wednesday that the policy will allow Chinese and Kazakh tourists to enter the Southeast Asian nation without visa requirements beginning on Sept. 25 until the end of February 2024.

The government would evaluate the impact of this temporary scheme after it ended, Srettha told a news conference after his first cabinet meeting.

"We have discussed this with all relevant agencies to ensure that we are fully ready," he said.

As a key driver of growth, Thailand has planned to reinvigorate its tourism industry by introducing promotional materials to inform prospective travelers and help them gain confidence in visiting the country, said government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke.

Additional measures also include increasing the routes and frequency of direct flights connecting with second-tier Chinese cities, which has the potential to draw more tourists, as well as setting up an online crisis management team to tackle misinformation and bad impressions among Chinese tourists, Chai told a news conference.

He noted that with this new policy, Thailand expects to receive 28 million foreign arrivals this year, earning over 1.4 trillion baht (about 39.15 billion U.S. dollars) in revenue from inbound visitors.

The country's inbound tourists are projected to reach 40 million in 2024, with 3.1 trillion baht (about 86.68 billion U.S. dollars) in total tourism revenue, he added.

In pre-pandemic 2019, Chinese tourists accounted for about 28 percent of the nearly 40 million foreign tourists to Thailand. Tourism accounts for about 12 percent of the country's GDP.
SEPTEMBER 15: Fords contract has officially been converted to a two-way deal, per NBA.coms transaction log.

SEPTEMBER 14: The Kings are converting the recently signed Jordan Ford to a two-way contract from his previous Exhibit 10 deal, according to TNT and Bleacher Reports Chris Haynes (Twitter link). Ford signed his original Exhibit 10 deal with Sacramento on Tuesday.

Its a bit surprising that Ford is having his deal converted so quickly, especially with it being reported before training camp, but as we wrote Tuesday, his G League and Summer League numbers were impressive.

Ford averaged 14.7 points and 4.6 assists in 32 games with Sacramentos G League affiliate Stockton Kings last year and averaged 14.2 points and 5.0 assists with the Kings in Summer League this year.

After the conversion becomes official, the Kings will have three players signed to two-way deals (Ford, Keon Ellis and Jalen Slawson) and have 14 players on standard contracts. After converting Ford, the Kings will have no players signed to training camp contracts, though that figures to change in the coming weeks.
WorldVue, the trusted provider of video, digital infrastructure, wireless connectivity, and professional services to guest-centric properties worldwide, is proud to announce the appointment of Julian Daniel to Vice President Operations, EMEA. As WorldVue continues to grow and evolve as a company, the executive team welcomes Daniel to play a pivotal, strategic role in the brand's current and future presence across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

In his new role, Daniel is responsible for building and managing the operations team responsible for all post-sales activity including project management, installation and break-fix support across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He will collaborate with leaders in product, customer support, brand management and product in WorldVue's head office to implement best practices and improve the customer experience globally. He will oversee operational excellence across the region including the management of WorldVue's third-party partners in EMEA and governance and compliance issues related to the region. Daniel is a senior-level regional escalation point for our valued customers. His technical knowledge, geographical expertise across North America and EMEA, and robust hospitality experience allows him to lead with purpose and thoughtful direction.

Based in the U.K., Daniel brings over 20 years of experience to the WorldVue team specializing in the hospitality sector. Prior to his new role, Daniel was at a Global ISP provider and was responsible for project and deployment management, plus logistics management for the Americas business. Daniel also provided independent consultation services for hotels across the industry, after holding various senior IT leadership roles with Hilton Hotels, where he worked for 14 years.

WorldVue

Houston, Texas

United States Website
Essex Hotel Management, LLC has welcomed back industry veteran Richard Cambeis and added him to its expanding corporate team. In his new role as Topline Specialist, Cambeis assists the operations and revenue management teams to drive performance across the hotel portfolio. He reports directly to Cheryl Huhn, Essex's director of revenue and sales strategy.

Cambeis is a seasoned hotel general manager with more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Most recently, he served as the general manager of the Hampton Inn and Suites in Lake Placid, NY, that Essex operates. Under his leadership, the property opened its doors successfully and emerged as the market leader in the area.

Known for his motivational and inspiring leadership style, Cambeis has a solid track record of driving revenue growth and improving guest satisfaction scores. His hands-on approach to hotel management and focus on team collaboration are set to be significant assets in his new role.
HOUSTON - WorldVue, the trusted provider of video, digital infrastructure, wireless connectivity, and professional services to guest-centric properties worldwide, is proud to announce the appointment of Julian Daniel to Vice President Operations, EMEA. As WorldVue continues to grow and evolve as a company, the executive team welcomes Daniel to play a pivotal, strategic role in the brands current and future presence across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

In his new role, Daniel is responsible for building and managing the operations team responsible for all post-sales activity including project management, installation and break-fix support across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He will collaborate with leaders in product, customer support, brand management and product in WorldVues head office to implement best practices and improve the customer experience globally. He will oversee operational excellence across the region including the management of WorldVues third-party partners in EMEA and governance and compliance issues related to the region. Daniel is a senior-level regional escalation point for our valued customers. His technical knowledge, geographical expertise across North America and EMEA, and robust hospitality experience allows him to lead with purpose and thoughtful direction.

This year, WorldVue has experienced impressive changes and milestones. The appointment of a well-respected industry veteran like Julian is an exciting addition. His understanding of different cultural challenges, paired with his expansive technological insight, is an incredible asset. Building upon our strong leadership team allows our company as a whole to continually serve our clients and partners with the utmost customer service. Michael Vargosko, Managing Director International Operations of WorldVue

Based in the U.K., Daniel brings over 20 years of experience to the WorldVue team specializing in the hospitality sector. Prior to his new role, Daniel was at a Global ISP provider and was responsible for project and deployment management, plus logistics management for the Americas business. Daniel also provided independent consultation services for hotels across the industry, after holding various senior IT leadership roles with Hilton Hotels, where he worked for 14 years.

WorldVue is an admirable leader and technology provider in the customer experience space. Im honored to be a part of the team. Coming on board at such a significant time for the brand is exciting. I look forward to growing the EMEA market. Julian Daniel, Vice President Operations, EMEA

Headquartered in Houston, Texas, WorldVue is leading the way in delivering innovative technology solutions that enhance the owner, staff, and guest experience. To stay updated on future announcements and learn more about WorldVue, visit www.worldvue.com.

ABOUT WORLDVUE

WorldVue is a trusted provider of video, advanced connectivity and professional services to properties and enterprises across the world. With a dedication to customer service, WorldVue is leading the way in delivering innovative technology solutions that enhance the resident, guest, and staff experience. From managed services to digital transformation, WorldVue is a single point of contact for all property technology needs.

Founded in 1974, WorldVue is a privately held company headquartered in the United States with offices in the Americas, UK, Netherlands, and Dubai. The company serves over 7,000 properties and over 900,000 rooms.

For more information, visit www.worldvue.com.
San Diego, CA - Azul Hospitality Group, a premier hospitality company providing innovative approaches to maximizing an asset's performance, announced today the promotions of Alvaro Fraile to Chief Executive Officer, and Mark Crisci to President of the organization.

Fraile joined the company in 2021 as Chief Operating Officer. He previously held senior positions with AC Hotels and Marriott International. He will provide oversight for all of Azul's hospitality-related operations. Crisci joined the company in 2014 as Chief Investment Officer. He previously held senior positions with several hospitality management firms and brands and will focus on the company's administrative, legal, and business matters. Rick Mansur, one of the company's founders and current President and CEO, will continue with the organization as Executive Chairman, focusing on senior talent acquisition, along with client and partner relationships. Doug Leiber, also a founding partner at Azul, will continue his responsibilities for talent acquisition and team member retention for all levels of the organization.

Alvaro and Mark have extensive expertise and will continue providing industry-leading results. I am confident that they will ensure Azul, as a dynamic hospitality organization, properly serves our guests, team members, clients, and partners. I look forward to working alongside these two highly talented professionals as they oversee the operations of our company. Rick Mansur, Executive Chairman, Azul Hospitality Group

This leadership transition is a natural progression, allowing Fraile and Crisci to collaborate in providing oversight to the day-to-day operations of Azul Hospitality Group and focus on top-line emphasis, paired with rigorous cost controls, best-in-class service standards, and the strongest possible bottom line for their clients & partners. Fraile and Crisci will continue the commitment to a deep service culture at the company, providing strong support for the team members with dedicated servant leadership.

Azul Hospitality Group, an award-winning lifestyle hospitality platform based in San Diego, CA, currently has 54 hotels under contract. Their hotels include over 8,000 guest rooms in the western and midwestern United States. The company has strong relationships with all the major hotel franchise companies and manages over 25 different and unique brands within its portfolio. Azul's Distinctive and Delineated Food & Beverage concepts are also a significant focus of their business.

About Azul Hospitality Group (Azul)

Azul Hospitality Group provides a fully integrated operating platform through a robust infrastructure of industry professionals with extensive experience in all aspects of hotel operations and development services. The company primarily focuses on upscale hotels and resorts with unique destination and product attributes. Distinctive and Delineated Food & Beverage concepts are also a significant focus for Azul. The company has also been honored with numerous awards as best of the best in hotel management for their spirit to serve philosophy and focus on associates to create a well-managed and engaged workforce. Additionally, Azul has also been recognized for best in industry financial performance, resulting in increased value for their client's assets.

For more information on Azul Hospitality Group and the services offered, visit www.azulhospitalitygroup.com.
CHICAGO - Waterton, a Chicago-based national real estate investor and operator, announced the official launch of its new Outbound Hotels brand, a collection of locally-minded hotels offering differentiated lodging options for lifestyle travelers seeking outdoor-inspired experiences in boutique settings. From Yosemite National Park and Jackson Hole, WY to the vistas of Mammoth Lakes, CA and the bucolic Green Mountains of Vermont, every Outbound Hotels-branded property gives visitors a curated connection to the outdoors.

Outbound Hotels expands the traditional hospitality model. Our portfolio of hotel properties creates lifestyle-oriented lodging options in destinations that provide year-round opportunities to connect adventure-minded visitors and locals to the outdoors. Local ambiance is often lost in todays lodging products so were flipping the script to create authentic, experience-based destinations in select markets where contemporary, boutique options dont exist. David Schwartz, CEO and chairman of Waterton

The vision for the Outbound Hotels brand began with Watertons acquisition of The Virginian Lodge in Jackson Hole, WY in 2020. Acquired in partnership with Jackson, Wyoming-based Orion Companies, it has been rebranded as The Virginian Lodge, an Outbound Hotel. The Outbound portfolio  operated by Springboard Hospitality  was expanded in 2021 with the acquisition of Outbound Mammoth (formerly the Sierra Nevada Resort) in Mammoth, CA, and Towne and Country Stowe in Stowe, VT, acquired by Waterton in March 2023.

Most recently, Waterton partnered with Argosy Real Estate Partners to bring its re-positioning and re-development acumen to a 17-acre Qualified Opportunity Zone site in Oakhurst, CA just south of the main gate to Yosemite National Park. The property will be developed as Outbound Yosemite Resort, a 135-key outdoor-inspired, lifestyle hotel consisting of 108 new vacation rental cabins and 14 hotel rooms located above an expansive 12,500 square-foot clubhouse, in addition to the 13-key boutique hotel currently on the site.

Outbound Hotels properties are well-positioned to meet the aesthetic and local-activity-focused Millennial and Gen Z cohorts while appealing to a broad demographic of travelers. Additionally, the long-term fundamentals and market dynamics in the selected markets are well-suited for our lodging strategy, as outdoor-inspired travel has become an increasingly attractive option. Together with our partners, we are committed to creating a compelling lodging experience that we believe will surprise, delight and connect visitors to some of the most attractive national park, mountain, beach and ski towns. Matt Mering, executive vice president of hospitality at Waterton

Every Outbound Hotels-branded property is a place for travelers to disconnect so they can reconnect with nature and offers an alternative lodging option that embraces its surroundings. Conveniently located near town centers and cultural hubs, each property immerses guests in the surrounding community where they can hike, bike, ski, climb, swim or just unwind with a local flair creating a cohesive connection between the guest, the property, and the surrounding area. From music, art and culture to sought-after outdoor experiences, Outbound Hotels brings a thoughtful suite of amenities  on- and off-property  to every traveler.

About Outbound Hotels

Outbound Hotels seeks to redefine alternative lodging in nature, making it easy for people to access extraordinary outdoor destinations without sacrificing the amenities and design modern travelers need and want. Guests can hike, bike, ski, climb, and swim all day and retreat to the comfort and camaraderie of Outbound Hotels. Passionate about going the extra mile to create distinctive harmony between its properties, surrounding environment, and communities, Outbound Hotels respects the places and people it serves. Current properties include The Virginian Lodge, an Outbound Hotel, in Jackson Hole, WY, and Outbound Mammoth, in Mammoth Lakes, CA. Discover the perfect blend of adventure and comfort with Outbound Hotels. www.outboundhotels.com

About Waterton

Waterton is a real estate investment and property management company with a focus on U.S. multifamily and hospitality properties. Founded in 1995, Waterton executes value add strategies and manages a national portfolio of properties on behalf of institutional investors, family offices and financial institutions. Waterton is privately held and is headquartered in Chicago with regional teams throughout the United States. As of June 30, 2023, Waterton's portfolio includes approximately $10.8 billion in real estate assets. Visit Waterton's website: www.waterton.com.
On April 26th, 2021 the Apple iOS 14.5 update rocked the marketing world by letting users opt out of sharing their data with Facebook and other third parties. Following suit, major browsers  Apple, Mozilla, and Google  are also phasing out support for third-party tracking cookies.

As hoteliers know, third-party data has been invaluable for creating hotel marketing campaigns. But as the third-party cookie crumbles, hoteliers must learn to collect and utilize the hospitality data they already have to help optimize marketing, boost direct bookings, and personalize guest experiences.

Get ready to learn more about the importance of first-party data, which types of hospitality data to collect, and how to leverage your data effectively.

What you will see here

The significance of big data in hotels

In this upcoming cookie-less world, hotels must turn to zero- and first-party hospitality data to fill the gap. Zero-party data is proactively shared by guests via surveys, messaging, and phone conversations (though its often considered to be first-party data). First-party data is gleaned from customer interactions with websites, apps, social media channels, etc.

There are actually big benefits to using your own data over third-party data. First, because it comes directly from guests, its more reliable, specific, timely, and accurate. And second, because your guests are sharing it voluntarily, there are no privacy concerns.

Lets examine specific types of guest data hotels can collect.

9 types of hospitality data

1. Contact information

Obtaining basic information, such as a guests name, physical address, phone number, and email address is a crucial first step in guest data collection. This information makes it possible to reach out with direct mail and email marketing campaigns.

Not only that, but it allows you to target those emails specifically to the guests wholl receive them. And research shows emails with personalized subject lines are 26% more likely to be opened.

2. Guest demographics

Guest demographic information, including age, gender, location, marital or parenting status, and native language, is equally valuable for personalization. Just think, your promotion offering a warm escape from winters chill will be much more effective for customers in the Midwest portion of the US versus those in the southern states.

3. Stay-related hospitality data

This hospitality data can include the booking channel used, dates and length of stay, and purpose for the stay (i.e., business, leisure, or both!). It can also include whether the guest is traveling with their family, solo, with a friend, or with their partner on a romantic getaway.

With this data, you can be certain your offer for a free drink in the bar goes to your business travelers while recommendations for top kid-friendly activities go to families.

Looking for a better way to consolidate, access, and gain insights from your data? Get a demo to see whats possible with our solutions.

4. Guest preferences

Keeping track of what type of rooms your guests book, whether they travel with a pet, and what room temperature they prefer is incredibly valuable. Also record any special requests they make for things like extra pillows, a bottle of wine, or a specific type of soda in the mini fridge.

Armed with this information and the right platform, you can more effectively upsell. And youll delight guests by proactively ensuring their room is set up just the way they like it.

5. Guest interests

More than 6 out of 10 customers expect businesses to tailor messaging to their needs, and to offer targeted promotions. Furthermore, marketers see a 760% increase in email revenue from segmented campaigns.

One of the most effective ways to personalize guest experiences and segment marketing promotions is by keeping an accurate record of guest interests. Youll get much higher engagement when you recommend the new photography exhibit to your art lovers, the ceviche-making class to your foodies, and the surf lessons to your adventure seekers.

6. Ancillary purchases

By maintaining a record of a guests on-property purchases, you can uncover opportunities for upselling while simultaneously creating a better guest experience. For instance, if you know a guest uses your spa when they visit, offering a discount on a 90-minute Swedish massage may incentivize a future stay.

7. Engagement information

The right data platform lets you track how guests interact with your website, hotel app, emails, push notifications, and surveys. Are they opening your emails and messages? Are they responding? And what website pages do they linger on?

You can analyze this data to help boost direct bookings and increase engagement with your guests. Hotels are already doing this. With Revinate Marketing, Lore Groups Pulitzer Amsterdam hotel leveraged their guest data to build a more engaged database, earning 1.1 million in direct revenue.

8. Historical data

When it comes to customers, repeat buyers are the most profitable. This is true for all industries, particularly hospitality.

Guest data on booking frequency, booking patterns, and lifetime customer value all provide guidance for promotions that your guests will respond to. For instance, you can reward your VIPs with special perks that build loyalty to create a powerhouse of brand evangelists.

9. Social media data

Consider monitoring shares, likes, and comments on your Facebook page, Instagram account, and other social media channels. You should also keep tabs on review sites.

These interactions can be a treasure trove of guest data, and the right technology platform brings all that information together into one dashboard, making it easy to analyze and helping you personalize interactions with guests.

Top sources of hospitality data

To streamline the collection of big data in hotels, you need a solution that gathers and consolidates information at every guest touchpoint. And you also need one that continually cleanses your data. Without this feature, your database will likely contain multiple and conflicting guest profiles. And you wont be able to accurately segment your guests.

With the right technology in place; however, you can capitalize on these effective sources for collecting zero- and first-party hospitality data:

Booking engine

Call center interactions

Digital invoicing

Guest surveys and polls

Messaging interactions

On-property purchasing behavior

PMS

Review sites

Service requests

Social media

Website email opt-in forms for your newsletter

WiFi signups

What hotels can do with the right hospitality data

Every interaction with guests creates an opportunity to better understand them and how they feel about the services your hotel delivers. When you automate hospitality data collection and analytics with the right data platform you achieve a number of benefits:

You can deliver better, more personalized guest experiences to foster stronger relationships and build greater loyalty.

You improve your services because you can clearly see exactly which features and amenities attract guests to your property (and what may frustrate them). Youre no longer merely guessing.

You can segment your guests based on anything from demographics and trip purpose to interests and purchasing behavior to achieve greater engagement. Case in point  using Revinates Guest Data Platform, Aramark Destinations could get creative with their segmentation and now averages $136k per marketing campaign.

Hospitality data: Make every touchpoint count

Your guests preferred communication channels will vary. So, you need an omnichannel solution that allows you to collect guest data from every touchpoint and consolidate it into one place. With a healthy database, you can then improve guest experiences to drive direct bookings and greater profitability.

Learn how to use hospitality data to boost guest engagement, loyalty, and revenue through email marketing with our guide, The ultimate guide to email marketing for hotels.

About Revinate

Revinate empowers hoteliers to directly connect with their guests.

Our Guest Data Platform and communication solutions unlock revenue for hoteliers and put them in control of the full guest experience  initial research, booking, check-in, throughout the stay, and even after check out  all via the communication channels that guests prefer, whether it's voice, text, email, or web.

More than 12,000 hotels globally bank on Revinate to drive direct revenue and deliver delightful guest experiences.

Ask us how we do it. Visit our website to get a demo.

Sanjana Chappalli

VP of Brand Marketing and Communications

Revinate, Inc.

View source
The six-month collaboration between Dr Sebastien Fernandez, (Associate Professor of Organizational Behavior at EHL) and Alberto Casciano (PhD candidate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology at Trento University, Italy), has been the first of its kind and has set the wheels in motion for similar future academic research partnerships at EHL. This association between an EHL research professor and an external PhD student - which came about tentatively and provisionally - has proven to be extremely fruitful, both personally and professionally.

Their work has resulted in a breakthrough training program for an effective, valid and fair selection process based on use of the LinkedIn platform. To date, preliminary data support the usefulness of this training, as the active participation via surveys improves the accuracy scores of raters assessments. The fruits of this research work will benefit recruiters and hiring managers in assessing candidates in a more structured and fairer manner through the information conveyed on their LinkedIn profile.

Q: How did this research partnership come about?

Alberto Casciano: Encouraged by the fact that the university of Trento supports collaborations with external academic institutions, I decided to contact Dr Fernandez in July 2022 after realizing that I was constantly referencing his work and citing his research findings. My main area of study is work psychology, talent acquisition methods and how the hiring process is driven by candidates CVs and use of LinkedIn. Sebastiens recent research contributed to generating new knowledge in the relation between LinkedIn cues and personality assessment. Since I was also doing research on the topic, I suspected there were exciting breakthroughs to be made if we pooled our enthusiasm and insights into the subject with a view to conducting scientific research together.

Dr Sebastien Fernandez: Id never been contacted by a PhD student from another country asking to collaborate, but I immediately saw the potential outcomes of working together. From the offset, we identified a lot of shared evidences and common ground that we wanted to develop: Using LinkedIn as a valid hiring instrument; improving accuracy of recruiters; and using samples on real workers. We quickly reached the conclusion that our joint efforts in data collection and surveys could result in an innovative, research-based training program to help steer better hiring decisions.

Q: Was this temporary partnership easy to set up?

Alberto Casciano: From my side, I was fortunate to have the University of Trento, (specifically the department of Psychology and Cognitive Science), encourage my time spent collaborating with a renowned researcher from another university. Additional funds were made available to sponsor this research experience abroad for a six-month period, knowing that these opportunities are unique in helping the research candidate grow and expand their knowledge pool.

Sebastien Fernandez: Since this experience has been a first at EHL, there was some new admin involved in setting up the process of receiving an external visiting researcher. Making Alberto part of the organization whilst not being an official employee with a contract meant creating a new type of status and position, but we managed to find a way to set up the right legal and logistical structure to make it workable for both sides. In the future, we would like to develop and facilitate the possibilities to receive visiting PhD students more regularly, since it is such a rich experience for both parties. It not only showcases the brilliant professors that we have here at EHL, but also shows the potential of such collaborations with other institutions, increasing the credibility of EHL as an institution that carries out great research  as well as teaching.

Q: What have been the professional and personal gains to come out of this collaboration?

Alberto Casciano: This six-month research mandate with EHL has allowed me to:

Spend time in a new university, country and culture;

Experiment new research practices and fine-tune my skills in general;

Be mentored by a professor whose work I have much admired, followed and referenced;

Grow as a researcher thanks to working alongside a seasoned professional;

Learn how to go from abstract ideas to creating concrete new processes.

Dr Sebastien Fernandez: Having Alberto as a research partner has given me the opportunity to:

Develop a mentoring relationship with an external research student;

Introduce someone from another country and culture to EHL;

Highlight the fact that EHL is not only a teaching hub, but also a center of impactful research;

Have a regular interlocutor with whom to exchange on insightful deep thinking and breakthroughs;

Share enthusiasm for the same research topics;

Also grow as a researcher and mentor.

Id like to encourage this opportunity for EHL to invite visiting researchers to spend time working and elaborating ideas on our campus. Its a relatively low-cost investment with a very beneficial long-term return. Dr Sebastien Fernandez

EHL Hospitality Business School

Communications Department

+41 21 785 1354

EHL

View source
Marriott International to Open Three Hotels in Indonesia's New Capital City

Marriott International, Inc. announced it has signed a Hotel Management Agreement with Indonesian real estate developer, PT. Pakuwon Jati Tbk. to open three properties in Indonesias new capital city, Ibu Kota Negara Nusantara. The multi-deal agreement was signed by President and CEO of Marriott International Anthony Capuano and President Commissioner of PT. Pakuwon Jati Tbk. Alexander Tedja.

We are thrilled to be working with PT. Pakuwon Jati Tbk. on this landmark agreement, said Ramesh Jackson, Area Vice President, Indonesia and Malaysia, Marriott International. This milestone signing underscores our commitment to strategically expand our footprint in Indonesia, and we are pleased to also support the local governments efforts to accelerate the country's economic transformation especially with the designation of Indonesias new capital city in Nusantara.

Meaning archipelago in ancient Javanese, Nusantara is a symbol of national identity and planned as a smart forest city, in line with Indonesias commitment to achieve zero carbon emissions and 100% new and renewable energy by 2060. With the agreement, Marriott expects to debut three brands  Four Points by Sheraton, Westin Hotels & Resorts and Tribute Portfolio  in the highly anticipated destination, featuring transformational experiences and destination-rooted authenticity.

We are excited to partner with Marriott International for this historic project, said Alexander Tedja, President Commissioner of PT. Pakuwon Jati Tbk. We are certain that through this project, we will inspire travelers to embark on new journeys to Indonesias new capital city.

Four Points by Sheraton in Nusantara

Slated to be the first of these three openings, the property is expected to boast 300 rooms with facilities that ranges from an outdoor pool, function spaces with natural daylight and a gym with state-of-the-art equipment. Designed for the smart independent traveler, Four Points offers a casual and relaxed ambiance where classic and industrial elements meet modern design, creating spaces that are sophisticated and carefree in character.

The Westin in Nusantara

The Westin in Nusantara is anticipated to have 200 rooms and suites featuring the brands iconic Heavenly Bed. Plans also call for three restaurants, three bars & lounges, function spaces, meeting rooms, swimming pool, WestinWORKOUT  Fitness Studio, Heavenly Spa by Westin, and The Westin Kids Club. Guided by Westins six pillars of well-being, the brand continues to evolve and deliver its signature wellness programs to adapt to the needs of the modern traveler and deliver industry-leading experiences designed to empower guests to be the best version of themselves.

Tribute Portfolio in Nusantara

Plans for the hotel include 150 rooms and suites, including a signature destination dining venue, a cafe, pool bar and lobby lounge. The property amenities expect to feature an outdoor swimming pool, gym and spa. Tribute Portfolio is a growing global family of independent hotels drawn together by their individuality, passion for captivating design, and their drive to create distinct, vibrant social settings for guests and locals alike.
Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong

IHG Hotels & Resorts and Franze Developments have opened a brand-new Holiday Inn & Suites in Australia. The opening of Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong marks a significant milestone as the first major new-build hotel in the area in almost 20 years.

Located within Franze Developments expansive $200 million mixed-use development, Geelong Quarter, the property is the largest hotel in the Geelong and Bellarine region, featuring 180 rooms (including 23 suites), Holiday Inns signature Open Lobby, all-day dining, meeting, and event spaces, plus a heated indoor pool and gym.

The hotels Open Lobby design offers a modern, warm, and inviting space to ensure a truly memorable experience for all guests. The Open Lobby combines the reception area, restaurant, lounge, and business centre into one open, collaborative space giving guests the most flexibility, whether theyre looking to eat, relax, work, or have fun, in the one location. In addition to the Open Lobby dining and bar, the hotels restaurant Maestro offers a menu that celebrates quality local ingredients and expertly curated dishes from Award-winning Australian chef Adrian Richardson.

For those seeking connectivity and productivity, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and a dedicated e-bar conveniently provides a space to plug in and stay connected with the days news or work. The hotel also features flexible guest areas to accommodate a wide range of social events, conferences, and delegations for up to 110 people.

Many rooms at Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong feature stunning views of the Geelong waterfront (Corio Bay) and balconies to enjoy the beautiful city. The hotel has also prioritised sustainability without compromising on comfort. The hotel integrates rainwater harvesting irrigation to cater to water needs throughout the property, and guest bathrooms feature energy-efficient shower heads. Other noteworthy features include fresh air tempered throughout the building, supported by individual split-system air conditioning, and motion-sensor-controlled LED lighting.

Paul Franze, Founder & Director of Franze Developments, said, We are extremely proud to bring this venture to fruition and the positive impact it will have on Geelong and its residents as the city continues to experience rapid growth in population and visitation. Theres nothing like this in Geelong, and the completion of this project will propel and drive the city forward. Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong is a testament to our dedication at Franze in creating vibrant, sustainable, and connected communities.

The hotel is set to welcome both local and international visitors with the regions growing reputation as a global destination, offering great value stays for both leisure and business travellers. Just an hours drive from Melbournes central business district (in Victoria, Australia), the hotel is perfectly positioned as a gateway to explore the Bellarine Peninsula and Great Ocean Road. Its strategic location ensures easy access to local landmarks, including Geelong Stadium, the revitalised Little Malop Street precinct, and the city's spectacular waterfront.

Advertisement



Matt Tripolone, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts Australasia & Pacific, said, "We are thrilled to introduce Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong to the city's hospitality landscape continuing the strong momentum of the Holiday Inn brand in Australasia. The opening is testament to our strong partnership with Franze Developments who have brought the Holiday Inn vision to life with our Open Lobby concept to functional, design-led rooms and culinary offerings. This stand-out addition to our portfolio is an exceptional example of the brands next-generation design offering an authentic travel experience for visitors to Geelong.

Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong General Manager, Daniel Payne, said, As the newest and largest hotel in Geelong, our presence underscores the citys commitment to growth and progress, attracting a new generation of guests with the introduction of the worlds largest brand family, and bringing 68 jobs to boost the local economy, Mr Payne said. With the recent opening of the new Geelong Arts Centre, and the Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre on the horizon, were excited to contribute to the citys evolution in becoming a thriving destination for business, culture, and leisure.

The property is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone. For accessibility considerations, Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong features elevator access to all floors, visual and audible alarms and alerts, and Braille signage in lifts and public areas to accommodate guests with varying needs.
Beach Bar, Grand Anse Beach - Grenada, Caribbean

The latest air ticketing data analysis by ForwardKeys predicts significant growth in the Caribbean region for Q4 of this year. Popular destinations like the Dominican Republic, the US Virgin Islands, and Curacao are expected to experience continued growth in international arrivals, with growth rates of 54%, 39%, and 31%, respectively. In comparison to the same period in 2019, the overall Caribbean inbound travel is expected to increase by 15%.

While couples still make up the largest group size in the Caribbean at 43%, group travel (over 10 people) is making a comeback with a rebound of 39% compared to 2019.

Group travel is rebounding the strongest in the Dominican Republic +100%, Sint Maarten +41%, and Aruba 39%. This is being driven by travellers from the USA, Canada, and the United Kingdom, says Juan A. Gomez, Head of Market Intelligence at ForwardKeys.

The revival of Caribbean travel heavily relies on the USA and Canada; however, the European market remains key. The Dominican Republic stands out among its competitors due to its excellent connectivity with both intra and extra-regional airline carriers, which greatly contributes to its strong performance.

Jamaica and the Bahamas have significant potential to boost their performance by improving long-haul connectivity with source markets in Europe, adds Gomez.

The US and Canada make up most bookings to the region, with Canada being the top-growing origin market for premium cabin travellers, according to the latest air ticketing data from ForwardKeys.

Looking at the destinations visited by affluent travellers originating in Canada, we can see that they are mostly travelling to the Dominican Republic (+199%), Cuba (+114%) and Jamaica (+73%). And not only are more high-end travellers arriving from Canada, but they are also embarking on more stays of 14 nights or more (+75%) when travelling to the Caribbean, which opens the door to multi-destination trips, says Gomez.

The US Virgin Islands, Martinique and Jamaica have seen the biggest growths in long stays over 14 nights at 25%, 24% and 15% respectively.

The next origin source market to watch is Latin America, which represents 13% of all bookings, but is a region which is growing very fast, with bookings +65% ahead of 2019 levels.

European origins have lost share due to reductions in capacity and thus a resultant rise in airfares, and the strength of the USA outbound market. On the other hand, opportunity arises from the growing connections out of LATAM to the Caribbean, says Juan A. Gomez.

Moreover, LATAM countries have been boosting capacity to the Caribbean. Colombia (+157%), Brazil (+187%), Mexico (+55%), and Peru (+13%) all are showing strong growths and audiences interested in a Caribbean holiday, adds Gomez.

It seems that many travellers are seeking out some warm sunshine in the Caribbean this Autumn, and the islands with better flight connections can expect to see a boost in tourism and hospitality.


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.
Grants to Support Rural Economies and Forest Conservation in the Berkshires

BOSTON  The Healey-Driscoll Administration awarded $460,000 in grant funding to increase economic development focusing on the conservation and sustainable management of forests within Massachusetts' Woodlands Partnership of Western Massachusetts region.

Through the Woodlands Partnership Grants, the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) is supporting nine rural communities and three regional conservation and economic development organizations in improving access to outdoor recreation in town and state forests, improving the safety of outdoor recreation, and implementing climate-smart forestry practices.

"We're investing in Massachusetts' rural communities to unlock the full potential of our forests  from tourism, to recreation, to robust economic development," said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. "The Woodland Partnership Grants support the conservation of one of our most spectacular regions while also helping local economies in a sustainable way."

In Berkshire County:

Windsor: $24,984 for Climate Smart Road Maintenance (invasives reduction)

Completes an invasive species inventory and report for 15 miles of gravel roads through Windsor State Forest maintained by the Town and purchases a special mowing attachment to implement the plan.

Williamstown: $25,000 for Town Green Plantings for Resilience and Diversity

Completes the planting of the Town Green with a diversity of species to replace ash trees lost to the Emerald Ash Borer.

New Ashford: $22,400 for Creation of a Trailhead Parking and Picnic Area

Funds the purchase of land and the development of a parking and picnic area to give residents and visitors access to the Mt. Greylock Reservation.

Berkshire Regional Planning Commission: $75,000 for the Greylock Glen Forest Center Exhibit

Funds the design and installation of an exhibit in the new Forest Center to highlight the role of forests in stabilizing the impacts of climate change

Lever, Inc: $75,000 for Launching the Woodcraft Collaborative to support local wood businesses

Supports business development and marketing for dozens of small businesses that utilize local wood to produce a variety of products.

Peru: $20,000 for the Pierce Scenic Way -gaining access to forests for tourism

Completes the restoration of this scenic gravel road to give access to a large state-owned parcel. As with many of the grants, the Town will provide significant match when implementing of the project.

Adams: $25,000 for the Greylock Glen Forest Center (local wood, buildings and climate exhibit)

Funds the design and installation of a climate exhibit about the benefits of using local wood in large buildings such as the Forest Center.

The program follows the passage of 2018 law that officially launched the regional partnership to improve rural economic development based through sustainable forest conservation, tourism, and support for the fiscal stability of these communities  the most rural and forested in Massachusetts. The Woodlands Partnership is a grassroots-led program developed after dozens of local meetings. The resulting program is based on conserving forests and supporting their sustainable management to improve the economy along the Vermont and New York border.
OTT Taxi owner John Lord speaks during a show cause hearing on his license Tuesday in front of the City Council. The hearing took place prior to the regular council meeting.

North Adams Taxi Company Gets 90-Day Probation

NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  The City Council slapped OTT Taxi with a 90-day probation after police reported several violations since the taxi company was warned back in February.

Documents for the show cause hearing on Tuesday had raised the possibility of revocation of the business's license to operate but councilors weren't convinced that the violations were egregious enough.

Specifically, interim Police Chief Mark Bailey said owner John Lord was observed twice in July driving On Time Taxi cabs, which he is not licensed to operate, and that vehicles owned by OTT employees have been ticketed for being parked in front of the River Street office beyond the 15-minute limit.

Between Sept. 30, 2022, and July 22, 2023, police documented 14 violations, four parking citations and seven instances of drivers operating taxies without valid licenses. The company had been handed a 30-day probation back February by the council.

"More than 12 violations in 12 months, which may result in the revocation of the operator's license," said Bailey.

Councilor Lisa Blackmer said it had been made clear at the February hearing that the business, not Lord, owned the vehicles and he was not allowed to drive them.

"As we've seen from the chief, there have been multiple other violations of that even though I made it pretty clear that you shouldn't be driving them," she said.

Lord argued that was wrong. "I do own them. And I have insurance and I can drive that vehicle as long as there is not a fare in the vehicle," he said.

But Bailey pointed to the city ordinance that states "no person shall drive a taxi cab other than a person licensed by City Council." "I don't believe that it matters if he has a fare or not," the chief said. "He can't drive a taxi."

The councilors went back and forth a little on whether Lord was driving a taxi or, if there was no fare, driving a car.

Councilor Jennifer Barbeau said they needed a clear answer "besides our interpretation, is he legally allowed to drive his taxi, to which he says yes, without a paid 'quote' fares. Fares are not passengers, they're someone who's paying for a ride. That to me seems like a simple answer."

Councilor Ashley Shade thought the language was very clear as the chief had stated. "If you don't have a taxi license you should not be driving a taxi vehicle in the city of North Adams," she said, but noted these violations were laws but city codes. "There's no actual mechanism to fine them or give them a ticket for these offenses because they're not written anywhere in the city code."

An updated taxi cab ordinance  prompted by OTT's February hearing  is expected to come before the council at its next meeting.

Joseph Pini, the dispatcher, who sent a lengthy letter to councilors defending the business, said they had acted on the council's direction to have an "out of service" sign to use when the cars were being transported.

He spoke at length during the hearing, answering questions from the councilors. "We did everything you asked of us," he said.

Pini also stated that he had no interest in the business and Bailey confirmed that Lord had stated he was the only owner.

"As an owner, you should know better. You should do better. You should not have any violations," Bailey said. "That's what I'm getting at. The owner is also violating these city ordinances."

In addition to Pini, several employees spoke in favor of the business. Mayor Jennifer Macksey said she wanted to be clear there were no problems with the operators.

"The taxi services being provided by OTT drivers, their dispatchers, have never ever received any complaints about the drivers," she said. "We've heard how are you very personable. You do a great job, you're reliable. The issue is that Mr. Lord does not have a license to operate a taxi."

Several councilors objected to dunning a business for parking violations committed by employees.

"I can't see closing the business or suspending a license based on parking citations," said Councilor Bryan Sapienza. "If I had the authority, I could walk down Main Street on any given day and probably write about 10 or 15 tickets."

Traffic Commission Chair MaryAnn King, who attended the meeting, there are about five other businesses in the city that have gotten tickets, not just OTT. The parking problems on River Street were brought up at a March commission meeting and King wrote letters to businesses along the 15-minute parking zone and new signs were installed.

"Since then, they've been really good," she said. "Since that Traffic Commission meeting there hasn't been any 15-minute violation issues. They have been parking in the empty lots off of River Street."

Bailey's communication was dated Aug. 22; it was not clear when the document was disseminated to the council.

Barbeau objected that she had not received a copy of the documents until late Friday and so had been unable to get her questions answered by police prior to the hearing. Councilor Marie T. Harpin said she also did not get her hearing documents until Friday.

"I would have liked to have gathered a little more information and had a little more time to gather and speak to people regarding this and I didn't," she said.

There were also questions about why the public hearing did not have a 14-day notice; it was explained this was a license hearing and did not have to conform to those rules.

"Mr. Lord, based on the hearing, based on everything that's been talked about this evening, if the condition this evening is that you do not drive a vehicle that is registered as a taxi until you have a taxi license are you willing to comply with that?" asked Shade.

"Absolutely," replied Lord.

Shade then moved to impose a 90-day probationary period that passed 7-1 with Harpin voting no.
District Attorney Reveals Identity of Hancock Man Killed by State Police

HANCOCK, Mass.  The District Attorney's Office identified Phillip Henault as the man shot and killed by a State Police officer responding to a domestic incident.

The identity of the single State Police officer involved has not been made public.

According to State Police, and a statement from the Berkshire District Attorney's Office, the officer was called to a Hancock residence about 7 a.m. on Sept. 9 and was confronted by Henault, age 64, who was armed.

The preliminary investigation involving crime scene analysis, civilian interviews, body and dash camera footage and 911 recordings corroborate that the Massachusetts State Police officer retreated a significant distance from Henault.

According to the district attorney's office, the preliminary investigation shows Henault had multiple knives with him at the time of the incident. Upon retreat, the officer identified themself as a police officer and told Henault to stop. Henault failed to stop and threatened to kill the officer. Henault continued to approach and after the officer retreated a lengthy distance, the officer discharged their weapon.

The investigation is ongoing. District Attorney Shugrue will issue a final report when it is completed.

Hancock does not have a police force and is covered by the State Police.
Linda Pruyne, with Preston Repenning and Bill Cook, addresses the Select Board on Monday about creating a park that would cater to senior activities.

Lanesborough Residents Want a Senior Park

LANESBOROUGH, Mass.  A group of seniors who are not yet ready to retire from physical activity want to create a "senior park" at Bridge Street Park.



The Select Board on Monday voted to form a Lanesborough Senior Park Initiative after it was approached by resident Linda Pruyne with a proposal to add senior-friendly recreation facilities to the site. Members will be recruited through a citizen's interest form and are planned to be appointed at the next meeting.



"Our population is aging. Seventy-year-olds, we don't feel old and we're not ready to go to the senior center and play bingo," she said, adding that older residents need outdoor activities that can connect them with friends.



The proposal is of no cost to the town and is planned to be paid through fundraising.



Resident Bill Cook explained that the Bill Laston Memorial Park has elements for younger community members and though the senior park would not be exclusive to ages 65 and older, it would have activities that commonly interest older populations such as bocce courts, shuffleboard courts, and horseshoes.



Utilizing the existing infrastructure, the planners feel that they may be able to install a small gazebo for shade, a pickle ball court, and a wiffle ball field. It was also designed with easy accessibility with paths, nearby parking, and handicap-accessible tables.



"The park hasn't been used in quite some time and now with the new basketball court, they don't even really use the hoop that was falling apart and the basketball court is in disrepair," Pruyne said.



"So we got a little group together and [Cook] did this wonderful drawing. What we're proposing is that while the state is working on the reconstruction of the bridge, they're going to be putting in a sidewalk and they're going to be putting in a bike path and it's only going to be for that distance. My understanding is it's going to start right before the bridge and end right after the bridge so while they're doing that, we'd like them to do it in accordance with what the need might be for this park."






iciHaiti - NOTICE Sunrise Airways : Resumption of flights for Jeremie





Wednesday September 13, 2023, the company Sunrise Airways the private Haitian airline Sunrise Airways whose head office is located in Haiti informed us of the total resumption of its daily flights to Jeremie from Monday September 18, 2023.



To schedule or book your flights, contact travel agencies, the Call Center, Sunrise Airways points of sale or the company's website.



Visit the company's website for more information on flight schedules: sunriseairways.net



Call center:

+ 509 2220 0111

+ 509 2811 2222

+ 509 2816 0615

+ 509 2816 0616



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-24704-haiti-flash-sunrise-airways-a-haitian-success-story.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-14009-haiti-economy-sunrise-airways-a-world-class-airline.html



IH/ iciHaiti


















Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

The animated series Stoner Cats, starring Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher, has been fined $1m (806,200) by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for conducting an unregistered offering of crypto asset securities.

Stoner Cats, which follows a group of cats as they take care of their marijuana-smoking owner who suffers from Alzheimers, was funded by $8m (6.4m) made from selling over 10,000 non-fungible tokens (NFTS).

The series  released in 2021  violated the Securities Act of 1993 by offering and selling these crypto asset securities to the public in an unregistered offering that was not exempt from registration, a press release from the SEC said,

At the time of raising funds, the shows marketing team reportedly highlighted specific benefits of owning them, including the option for owners to resell their NFTs on the secondary market for higher profit, the statement added.

In doing so, it also leveraged its expertise as Hollywood producers, its knowledge of crypto projects, and the well-known actors involved in the web series, leading investors to expect profits because a successful web series could cause the resale value of the Stoner Cats NFTs in the secondary market to rise.

Without admitting or denying the SECs findings, SC2 agreed to a cease-and-desist order and to pay a civil penalty of $1 million, the release continued. The order establishes a Fair Fund to return monies that injured investors paid to purchase the NFTs. SC2 also agreed to destroy all NFTs in its possession or control and publish notice of the order on its website and social media channels.

Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis (AFP/Getty)

Registration of securities, including crypto asset securities, protects investors by providing them with disclosures so they can make informed investing decisions, Carolyn Welshhans, Associate Director of the SECs Home Office, said in the statement. Stoner Cats wanted all the benefits of offering and selling a security to the public but ignored the legal responsibilities that come with doing so.

Created by Ash Brannon (Rock Dog), Chris Cartagena, and Sarah Cole, Stoner Cats also features Chris Rock, Dax Shepherd, Gary Vaynerchuk, Jane Fonda, Michael Buble, Seth MacFarlane and Vitalik Buterin.

Kunis is also listed as one of the series producers.

This revelation comes days after Kutcher, 45, and Kunis, 40, put out an apology video after they were condemned for writing letters of support for convicted rapist Danny Masterson, who was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison.

We are aware of the pain that has been caused by the character letters that we wrote on behalf of Danny Masterson, Kutcher said in the clip, which was posted on their social media accounts.

Kunis added: We support victims. We have done this historically through our work and will continue to do so in the future.
Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Chris Pine is receiving cataclysmically bad reviews for his directorial debut, which reportedly prompted walkouts during its premiere.

The Star Trek actor debuted the new film, titled Poolman, at Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on Wednesday (13 September). Pine also stars in the film, playing a pool cleaner who uncovers a water heist taking place in Los Angeles.

Reviews suggest the film is inspired by Chinatown and The Big Lebowski  but does not come close to capturing the quality of either. In fact, IndieWires Siddhant Adlakha said Poolman will likely go down as one of the worst films to play at any major festival in recent memory.

Adlakha branded the film a vanity project, writing in their review: Its the work of a filmmaker who ought to have been told no at least one or two hundred times during production. On X/Twitter, Adlakha said the abysmal and awful film prompted walkouts at the premire.

One person who walked out of their screening was journalist Rendy Jones, who wrote on social media: Chris Pines directorial debut POOLMAN started as a joke on the WONDER WOMAN 1984 set. Didnt know what the joke was and couldnt endure pass the 40-minute mark to find out. In a way two awful movies came out of WONDER WOMAN 1984

The Hollywood Reporter critic Michael Rechtshaffen said the film it a misfire that hits bottom with excruciating momentum, with both Collider and Slashfilm writing the film off as a belly flop. The latters Rafael Motamayor said the films central mystery is a convoluted mess.

Meanwhile, Eric Marchen said that Pine embarrassed himself beyond words with the film, with Ezra Cubero stating: It's actually insane how much of a spectacular failure POOLMAN is.

Pines co-stars, including Annette Bening, Danny DeVito and Jennifer Jason Leigh, are also receiving negative reviews for their roles  although several critics claim the only good thing about the film is Stephen Tobolowskys performance.

Chris Pine in abysmal new film Poolman (AGC Films)

Pine previously said that he came up with the idea of the film while working on Wonder Woman 1984, which was released in 2020. The actors other credits include Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit (2014), Hell or High Water (2016) and this years critically acclaimed Dungeons & Dragons Honour Among Thieves.

Poolman is yet to receive distribution, but will premiere in the UK at the BFI London Film Festival in October.
Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Actor Miriam Margolyes has hit out at her former co-star Steve Martin, calling him horrid.

The star of stage and screen, who has become increasingly known for her unfiltered views on celebrities she has met, targeted the Hollywood comedian and Only Murders in the Building star in her new memoir.

In the book, which was published on Thursday, Margolyes reflected on the uncomfortable experience of working with Martin, 78, on Frank Ozs cult hit Little Shop of Horrors, which was released in 1986.

Margolyes, 82, played the secretary to Martins psychopathic dentist Orin Scrivello in the film and, in their musical number Dentist!, Margolyes is punched by Martins character, who also slams a door into her face,

In her memoir, Margolyes suggested she was hurt for real while filming the scenes, writing: "I was hit all day by doors opening in my face; repeatedly punched, slapped and knocked down by an unlovely and unapologetic Steve Martin  perhaps he was method acting  and came home grumpy with a splitting headache.

Margolyes added: Let it not be said that I have never suffered in the name of art, concluding that the actor was undeniably brilliant, but horrid to me.

She went onto praise her former co-star Steve Buscemi saying that the actor was unerringly sweet and knocked spots off Steve Martin.

Martin has since refuted Margolyes version of events, while categorically objecting to the claim he punched her.

The actor, whose film credits include The Man with Two Brains and Parenthood, currently stars in Hulu series Only Murders in the Building, which he co-created.

Martin stars in the show alongside Martin Short and Selena Gomez.

Steve Martin and Miriam Margolyes in Little Shop of Horrors (The Geffen Company)

Elsewhere in Margolyess memoir, the actor recalled flashing an exhausted Martin Scorsese while working with him on the 1993 film The Age of Innocence.

Access unlimited streaming of movies and TV shows with Amazon Prime Video Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up

Access unlimited streaming of movies and TV shows with Amazon Prime Video Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up

Margolyes, in a recent interview, called John Cleese poisonous, and branded him a puny tadpole of a person.

In recent years Cleese, who is set to debut a new show on GB News this month, has become am increasingly divisive figure. In 2019, he appeared to denounce multi-culturalism, saying: London is not an English city any more.

After he was criticised, the 83-year-old responded: I suspect I should apologise for my affection for the Englishness of my upbringing, but in some ways, I found it calmer, more polite, more humorous, less tabloid and less money-oriented than the one that is replacing it.

Oh Miriam: Stories from an Extraordinary Life is out now. Find 11 of the books biggest revelations here  from Margolyess most-despised people to her encounter with a smug Mick Jagger.
Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

If theres anything to be gleaned from A Haunting in Venice, its that Kenneth Branagh should make more horror movies. His quasi-notorious allegiance to cinematic trickery  lopsided Dutch angles, unusual POVs, and frenetically edited sequences  has often felt out of step with the subjects depicted on screen. It proved a distraction from the glossy adventures of Marvels Thor, the domesticity of Belfast, and the elegant logic of his previous Agatha Christie adaptations: 2017s Murder on the Orient Express and last years Death on the Nile.

But, for his third film based on Christies Poirot novels, Branagh has turned his attention to one of the authors lesser-known stories, Halloween Party. Its humdrum, English hamlet locale has been swapped for the fog-choked canals of Venice, and a crumbling palazzo with death in its walls. As it turns out, its fairly unsurprising that an artist with roots in the illusionist, symbolic world of Shakespearean theatre, whos already adapted Mary Shelleys Frankenstein, would turn in a capable, classic chiller thats actually quite scary when it needs to be. Finally, all of his gimmicks have found their home.

Christies original story has been entirely refurbished by screenwriter Michael Green, embellished now with the seriess continuing obsession with trauma and psychoanalysis  Poirot, of course, can only be Poirot thanks to a baptism-by-fire-approach to tragedy and loss. To know how death operates, one must be familiar with its stench. After a valiant attempt at retirement, Poirot is apprehended by his old friend and celebrated author Ariadne Oliver (Tina Fey), a recurring character in Christies work who essentially serves as her stand-in. Shes convinced shes found someone who can finally stump the great detective: the unholy Ms Reynolds (Michelle Yeoh), a medium.

Reynoldss presence has been requested by a local Venetian, Rowena Drake (Kelly Reilly). Her daughter died by suicide, drowned in the canal after leaping from her bedroom balcony. The au pair, Olga Seminoff (Camille Cottin), speaks of ghosts in hushed tones and vengeful spirits of the children locked away, left to starve during the plague. But this, of course, is a Poirot mystery, and Reynolds seance ends with a body impaled on one of the statues in the vestibule.

A Haunting in Venice largely does away with the overstuffed, CGI bombast of Branaghs earlier Poirot tales. John Paul Kellys production design and Sammy Sheldons costumes are immaculate. There are fewer A-listers in the cast (it does feature a reunion of Belfast stars Jamie Dornan and Jude Hill), and the performances lean occasionally into heightened dinner theatre, with lines delivered out and towards the audience. Yeoh is the exception and, unexpectedly, the contrast works  shes the centre of every scene shes in, that unplaceable quality of movie star charisma here given a paranormal sheen. Branaghs Poirot continues to be a welcome presence: a slightly romanticised depiction of the detective, whos self-aware enough, with his accent and his double-decker moustache, not to feel too pompous.

A Haunting in Venices conclusion, entirely different to Christies, is perhaps the least satisfying of the three films; the individual clues arent quite prominent enough to register, nor is the logic tight enough, to incite that satisfying a-ha! moment. But the directors haunted spaces have a touch of 1961s The Innocents to them, while his off-kilter camera allows the typical frights  disembodied lullabies, figures in reflections, mysterious patterns on walls  to feel strange and hallucinatory. Im sure Branagh could happily keep making these Poirot mysteries, but, after A Haunting in Venice, he should instead consider giving Blumhouse a call.

Dir: Kenneth Branagh. Starring: Kenneth Branagh, Camille Cottin, Jamie Dornan, Tina Fey, Jude Hill, Michelle Yeoh. 12A, 103 minutes

A Haunting in Venice is in cinemas from 15 September
Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Independent Climate email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Police in the Netherlands arrested over 3,000 climate activists this week during ongoing protests against government subsidies given to planet-heating fossil fuels.

Extinction Rebellion, the organisation which called for protests, said this is the highest number of arrests they have faced from a single demonstration.

It's the most we have ever had," Hester Op De Laak, a representative of Extinction Rebellion told The Independent.

She said around 2,400 people were arrested on Monday alone, with several hundred arrests taking place on Saturday and Sunday.

The protests continued on the fifth consecutive day on Wednesday with hundreds of people blocking a major highway which connects to The Hague, the seat of the Dutch government.

Local police said activists marched onto the A12 highway and blocked all incoming traffic to the city, the news agency ANP reported.

Authorities said they warned protesters to stay off the road and detained people who ignored orders to leave.

The group said it would continue till the Dutch government stopped using public funds to subsidise the oil and gas industry, as they have done in recent months.

All the detained protesters have been released after being removed from the scene, the authorities said.

On Monday, the police deployed water cannons to disperse the crowd, with photos and videos showing activists drenched in water and some being taken off the scene.

No injuries have been reported, authorities said.

Dutch police uses water cannon to clear climate activists from the highway in The Hague, Netherlands (HANNAH PRINS via REUTERS)

25,000 People Block Amsterdam A12 Motorway, said Just Stop Oil on Monday, another group of climate activists, sharing a video of protestors holding banners as police fired water cannons.

 25,000 People Block Amsterdam A12 Motorway



 For the last 3 days, thousands of people from @NLRebellion, @SR_Netherlands and other groups have blocked the motorway to demand no new fossil fuel subsidies.



 Over 3,000 people have been arrested. The police have already asked pic.twitter.com/RFk1udFzNI  Just Stop Oil (@JustStop_Oil) September 11, 2023

In one video, activists could be heard chanting: What do we want? Climate justice!

Commotion in the Netherlands this weekend as Extinction Rebellion activists are blocking traffic in The Hague. Police are using water cannons on the activists.



Last night Extinction Rebellion also locked to A12 highway before being detained by the police. pic.twitter.com/MsyShBB5Y8  Dumayu (@DumayuReporting) September 10, 2023

On Saturday an estimated 10,000 activists joined the protest, while on Sunday several hundreds blocked the road, Reuters news agency reported.

People are sprayed by a water cannon, as climate activists block the A12 highway in The Hague, Netherlands (REUTERS)

Earlier this year in May, 1,579 protestors of Extinction Rebellion were arrested from the same spot. The police released most of them but said 40 people would face charges.

Over 1,000 arrests took place in the UK in 2022 after climate protestors blocked oil terminals.

According to a report published last week by the Center for Research on Multinational Corporations, these subsidies total around 37.5bn (32.23bn) each year.

Burning fossil fuels  such as coal, oil and gas  is responsible for the majority of carbon pollution that is heating the world and fuelling more extreme weather and disasters.

Scientific assessments have found that the global average temperature has already risen by about 1.2 degrees Celsius and it is set to rise more, triggering worse extreme heatwaves, droughts, hurricanes and wildfires.

The year 2023 has seen the hottest summer on record, the United Nations confirmed this month with temperatures between June to August standing at 1.5C higher than normal.
 Close Hurricane Nigel to rapidly intensify

Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Independent Climate email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Hurricane Nigel has strengthened slightly overnight and is set to intensify further, according to the latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center.

Nigel, the sixth hurricane to form in the Atlantic Ocean this season, developed into a Category 1 storm yesterday and was forecast to rapidly intensify to become a Category 3 hurricane.

At the moment, Nigel has sustained winds of 80mph (130kph) but forecasters in the National Weather Service (NWS) and National Hurricane Center expect the storm to have sustained winds of at least 111mph as it grows.

Nigel was located approximately about 875miles (1,410km) east-southeast of Bermuda and was moving northwest at a speed of 12mph (19kph).

The hurricane is not expected to make landfall and no warnings or watches have been issued.

As of now, the National Hurricane Center predicts Nigel will veer off right into the open Atlantic Ocean by Wednesday morning.

Nigel developed shortly after Hurricane Lee landed in Nova Scotia as a post-tropical storm.
Today, instead of celebrating his eldest sons 24th birthday, David Parfett will visit the crematorium in Amersham where Tom has been laid to rest. It has become something of a tradition in the two years since he bought a fatal dose of poison online from a website with alleged links to Kenneth Law, a former chef at a five-star hotel in Toronto turned suspected purveyor of lethal drugs, which are believed to have assisted the promising philosophy students bid to end his life.

Toms is one of 88 UK deaths that a National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation last month linked to Law, who is now in custody in his native Canada, charged with 14 counts of counselling and aiding suicide. His suspected Canadian victims were, like Tom, aged between 16 and 36; vulnerable young people who turned to the internet in their lowest moments and, instead of finding help, were given the tools to make an irreversible decision, according to police. Its a complete waste, Parfett says. It is immoral for people of that age to be dragged into that kind of world.

Law is believed to have sold more than 1,200 packages of poison (which we are not naming on ethical grounds) to people in 40 countries. These include the US, New Zealand, Austria and Italy, all of which are carrying out their own investigations. The NCAs decision to investigate him has come following confirmation that the Canadian authorities will not include any overseas evidence in their prosecutions. The move is in some ways a success, Parfett believes. But while he considers it really, really positive that, finally, were going to get the investigative resources on this that had been lacking over the last couple of years, there is also a lot of sadness I think there were definitely missed opportunities to investigate sooner, which may have prevented some of those deaths.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Survivors of a deadly migrant shipwreck in southern Greece three months ago are suing authorities for failing to intervene to rescue passengers before their vessel capsized in international waters, their lawyers said Thursday.

Hundreds of migrants are believed to have been trapped and killed when a modified fishing trawler sank south of Greece in mid-June.

The Greek coast guard had been shadowing the vessel along a section of its journey from Libya to Italy. Only 104 people were pulled from the sea alive  all men and boys  while 82 bodies, only one of them a woman, were recovered.

The rest, including women and children, sank in one of the deepest parts of the Mediterranean. With depths of around 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) in that area, a recovery of the vessel and its victims is all but impossible.

Many of the survivors dispute the official account that repeated offers of assistance by the coast guard were rejected and claim that a botched effort was made to tow the vessel to safety shortly before it capsized and sank.

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of a group of 40 survivors against all parties responsible at the port of Piraeus, near Athens, on Wednesday.

The plaintiffs say the coast guard failed to act promptly to rescue the passengers on board the obviously unseaworthy and overloaded fishing vessel, according to a statement by three volunteer organizations of lawyers and migrant rights groups assisting the case.

They are seeking the attribution of criminal responsibility for the acts and omissions by the Greek authorities, the lawyers said.

___

Follow APs coverage of global migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

The Queen said she will be raising a glass to celebrate BBC Radio 4 soap opera The Archers reaching its 20,000 episode milestone.

Camilla, who has been a huge fan of the drama charting the ups and downs of life in fictional Ambridge for many years, shared a message to editor Jeremy Howe, which was read at a BBC reception in Birmingham on Thursday evening, held in celebration of the anniversary.

The message, read by British actress Louiza Patikas who plays Helen Archer on the long-running show, said: As one of your greatest fans, and sadly unable to join you this evening, I will be thinking of you all and raising a glass to mark over a quarter of a million minutes of Archers magic from the last 72 years.

Thank you for bringing joy, companionship, laughter, tears, compassion and understanding to your audience across the globe.

Heres to the next 20,000 episodes  and, lets hope, the end of Rob Titchener once and for all!

Titchener, played by Timothy Watson, is an Archers villain and the coercive control he exercised over his wife Helen, led to her stabbing him in front of her five-year-old son Henry.

The character left Ambridge after failing in his attempt to kidnap his and Helens son, but he recently made a reappearance on the show.

The Archers has been broadcast on BBC radio since 1951 and has clocked up more episodes than any other continuous drama serial in the world.

Although the soap opera is based in a fictional village, it has twice featured cameos from members of the real British royal family: Queen Elizabeth IIs sister Princess Margaret, in June 1984, and Camilla in February 2011.

Princess Margaret appeared as the surprise guest at a fundraising fashion show for the NSPCC in the ballroom of Ambridges local hotel Grey Gables, while Camilla appeared in her role as president of the National Osteoporosis Society as part of a special episode to mark the 60th anniversary of the show.

In 2021, Camilla hosted a reception for cast and crew to mark the 70th anniversary of the popular BBC Radio 4 show where she praised the programme for raising awareness of challenging topics such as homophobia, modern slavery, alcohol addiction, domestic violence and coercive control.

Similarly last year, the programme marked the death of the Queen with a specially-recorded scene, which heard two of the serials longest-running characters, Lynda Snell and Lilian Bellamy, reminiscing about the Coronation of Elizabeth II in 1953.

The BBC reception celebrating the 20,000 episode of The Archers is being held where the show is recorded in Birmingham.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

An Australian politician has spoken of his hope that a delegation to the United States to call for the release of Julian Assange will lead to charges against the WikiLeaks founder being dropped.

More than 60 Australian federal politicians will travel to Washington next week to meet with members of the US Congress, civil society and the media.

Senator David Shoebridge told the PA news agency there was now an urgent need to drop the case and allow Assange to leave Belmarsh prison in London, where he has been held since 2019 as he fights extradition to the US on espionage charges.

The core crime he faces is the crime of being a journalist Senator David Shoebridge

Assange fears he will spend the rest of his life in prison if he is extradited.

Sen Shoebridge said next weeks delegation was unique as it was cross party, with huge support from the Australian public to end the persecution of Assange.

The core crime he faces is the crime of being a journalist, Sen Shoebridge said. The reason we are going is that Julian Assange is facing an unprecedented situation.

He is an Australian citizen who has committed no crime but is being extradited to the United States for activities that would never be considered a crime in Australia.

We are at a critical point. In a matter of weeks Julian Assange could be put on a plane, in shackles, and sent to the US Senator David Shoebridge

We are hopeful that the partisan world of Washington politics, such a broad cross party visiting group will have some political cut through.

We are at a critical point. In a matter of weeks Julian Assange could be put on a plane, in shackles, and sent to the US.

More than 60 Australian politicians have signed a letter saying they stood in support of the trip to the US and were resolutely of the view that the prosecution and incarceration of the Australian citizen Julian Assange must end.

They said the matter had dragged on for over a decade and it was wrong for Mr Assange to be further persecuted and denied his liberty when one considers the duration and circumstances of the detention he has already suffered.
Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Stephen Hammond has become the latest MP to confirm they will call it quits at the next election.

The Wimbledon MP and former minister will join a Conservative exodus, with more than 40 announcing that they will not defend their seat in an election that is likely to take place next year.

In a letter to his local party association on Thursday, Mr Hammond said he would not seek the nomination as the Tory candidate following what he called an incredibly tough decision.

He said: It has not been easy for me to make this decision and, despite the national picture, I do believe we can win locally.

However, this is the right decision for Sally (his wife) and me.

In recent years we have both been stretched by increased caring responsibilities for our elderly parents and this is unlikely to change in the coming years.

He said it had been the privilege of my life to represent Wimbledon in Westminster for the past 18 years.

The 61-year-old was first elected to Parliament in 2005 and was promoted to the government front benches in 2012, being handed a junior transport role by David Cameron during the coalition years before losing his position in a reshuffle two years later.

During the Brexit years, he was twice punished for rebelling against Tory governments.

Former prime minister Theresa May sacked him as vice-chairman of the party in 2017 after he voted in favour of a so-called meaningful vote on her Withdrawal Agreement.

In September 2019, he was one of 21 MPs stripped of the Tory Party whip by then-prime minister Boris Johnson after they backed a plan to take control of the Commons timetable to pass legislation to block a no-deal Brexit.

He and nine others later had the whip restored following talks with Mr Johnson a month later.

Mr Hammond made an appearance at Prime Ministers Questions on Wednesday, asking Rishi Sunak whether he would consider convening a dementia medicines taskforce to review progress on a new diagnostic test and drug treatment.

With Mr Sunaks Tories well behind in the polls, a host of senior party MPs have chosen not to fight for another term.

Former defence secretary Ben Wallace and former cabinet ministers Dominic Raab, George Eustice, Matt Hancock and Sajid Javid have all called time on their Commons careers.
In a move that has been widely, and appropriately, reported as a coup, Keir Starmer is to make his most high-profile appearance yet on the world stage when he attends a formal meeting with the president of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron, next week.

Although heads of state and governments do sometimes meet with opposition politicians, the French are normally sticklers for protocol and status, and the rules are only rarely relaxed.

Macron was diplomatic enough to inform Rishi Sunak of the forthcoming meeting when the pair were in Delhi for the G20 last week. Given how much store Sunak places on warming relations with France and the EU, and his previous successful summit meeting with Macron last March, the news may have come as something of a disappointment.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Watch live from Morocco on Wednesday, 13 September, after the deadliest earthquake in over six decades.

The disaster has devastated villages in the High Atlas Mountains, leaving at least 2,900 people dead and injuring more than 2,000 others.

It was Morocco's deadliest earthquake since 1960 and its most powerful since at least 1900 at a magnitude of 6.8.

Parts of the walls that surround Marrakech's old city, a Unesco World Heritage site from the 12th century, have been damaged.

President Enaam Mayara has estimated that it could take up to six years to rebuild some of the areas worst affected by the earthquake.

Seismological expert Remy Mossu told Sky News that aftershocks will continue to rock Morocco weeks or months after the 6.8-magnitude earthquake and that more than 25 aftershocks have already hit.

Emergency services, including firefighters from Manchester and Kent, have travelled to Morocco to help with rescue efforts as part of the UK International Search and Rescue team.

As of Wednesday, many roads were still blocked by landslides, forcing Moroccan villagers to load donkeys with supplies to take to remote areas inaccessible by vehicle.
Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Alleged non-human alien corpses have been displayed to Mexican politicians at the countrys Congress.

A self-described UFO expert claimed the two small corpses were retrieved from Cusco, Peru. They were presented in windowed boxes in Mexico City on Wednesday, stirring excitement within the UFO conspiracy theorist community.

The event was spearheaded by journalist Jaime Maussan, who claimed, under oath, that the mummified specimens are not part of our terrestrial evolution, with almost a third of their DNA remaining unknown, reported Mexican media.

The claims by the self-claimed ufologist have not been proven and Mr Maussan has previously been associated with claims of discoveries that have later been debunked.

The two small alleged alien corpses, retrieved from Cusco, Peru, were presented in windowed boxes in Mexico City on Wednesday (Reuters)

At the public hearing, Mr Maussan showed US officials and members of the Mexican government several videos of UFOs and unidentified anomalous phenomena before unveiling the alleged alien corpses.

He said: These specimen are not part of our terrestrial evolution... These arent beings that were found after a UFO wreckage. They were found in diatom (algae) mines, and were later fossilized.

Mr Maussan claimed the specimens had been studied by scientists at the Autonomous National University of Mexico (UNAM) who were able to draw DNA evidence using radiocarbon dating. After comparisons were made to other DNA samples, it was found that over 30% of the specimens DNA was unknown, he claimed.

X-rays of the specimens were also shown during the hearing.

X-rays of the specimens were also shown during the hearing, with experts testifying under oath that one of the bodies is seen to have eggs inside (Reuters)

Ryan Graves, Americans for Safe Aerospace Executive Director and former US Navy pilot, was in attendance, having earlier this year told US Congress of the threat that unidentified aerial phenomena posed to US national security.

Mr Maussan has previously been associated with claims of alien discoveries that have later been debunked, including five mummies found in Peru in 2017 that were later shown to be human children.
Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Alex Murdaugh appeared before a judge in a South Carolina courtroom on financial fraud charges for the first time since he was hauled away after being sentenced to life in prison for the brutal murders of his wife Maggie and son Paul earlier this year.

The disgraced attorney was shackled and handcuffed but smiled as he entered the courtroom in Beaufort County on Thursday before he shuffled to the defence table wearing a bright orange jumpsuit.

Murdaugh shook hands with members of his defence team and to the shock of many online, state Rep Todd Rutherford stood up and greeted the convicted killer with a handshake. Rutherford is one of the attorneys representing former Palmetto State Bank CEO Russell Laffitte - and alleged co-conspirator in Murdaughs financial crimes who is also appearing at the hearing.

Judge Clifton Newman, who oversaw the murder trial back in March, set a trial date of 27 November in Hampton County for Murdaugh, who is accused of stealing millions of dollars in insurance payments meant for the family of his housekeeper, Gloria Satterfield. Satterfield died after a fall at the Murdaugh family property in 2018.

Murdaughs attorney Dick Harpootlian argued in court on Thursday that his clients financial fraud trial should be pushed back.

There has been more publicity than any case in this state and maybe in the country, he said.

Because of the high-profile murder case, he asked that the judge put some time between that and the financial case.

Why? What is the hurry? he asked. Where are you going to get a jury? he asked Mars?

Alex Murdaugh appears in court on 14 September (Law&Crime)

The judge responded by rattling off several counties in South Carolina including Beaufort County, the county where Thursdays hearing was held.

Mr Harpootlian also brought up the bombshell motion filed just last week requesting a new trial in the murders based on allegations of inappropriate behaviour by Colleton County Clerk of Court Rebecca Hill.

He argued that a new trial cannot go ahead while those matters are still being investigated.

That we could go forward with another trial while that matter is being litigated? he said.

Judge Newman responded: Probably not in Colleton County.

The South Carolina Attorney Generals Office was given 10 days to respond to this motion  which gives them until Friday.

Murdaugh arrives in court on Thursday (Law&Crime)

(Law&Crime)

Murdaugh is facing more than 100 state and federal charges over his alleged financial crimes  many of which he admitted to on the witness stand at his murder trial.

The hearing on Thursday focused on the state charges. A court hearing on the federal charges is scheduled for 21 September.

Murdaugh previously agreed to plead guilty to federal charges stating that he stole millions of dollars from clients, according to court records.

Former Palmetto State Bank CEO Russell Laffitte and former attorney Cory Fleming  both former friends of Murdaughs and alleged co-conspirators in his financial crimes  also appeared in court.

After several hours of arguments from both sides, victim statements and statements of support for Fleming, the former attorney was sentenced to 10 years in prison on charges that he conspired with Murdaugh to steal millions of dollars from trusting clients.

Cory Fleming was sentenced to 10 years in prison (Law&Crime)

He had previously pleaded guilty to the financial fraud charges that stem from Murdaughs alleged scheme to steal money from the estate of his dead housekeeper Gloria Satterfield. Satterfield died in a fall on the Murdaugh property in 2018.

He was also involved in stealing money from the family of Hakeem Pinckney  a man whose family Murdaugh represented after he was killed in a car crash in 2009.

While Fleming knew Murdaugh was asking him to do wrong, he previously said he didnt realise the depth of his old friends depravity.

Laffitte  who was convicted of federal charges in November  appeared for a status conference in his state case. One of his attorneys - South Carolina State Rep Todd Rutherford, asked the judge to delay a trial until the fall of 2024. The state representative received backlash online earlier in the day when he stood up and greeted a smiling Murdaugh with a handshake.

After a back and forth between the defence and the state, the judge said that he would make a ruling at a later date.

Alex Murdaugh's attorneys Phillip Barber, from left, Dick Harpootlian and Jim Griffin speak at a news conference after filing an appeal of Murdaugh's double murder conviction on 5 September

The defence team is requesting a new trial in the murders based on allegations of inappropriate behaviour by Colleton County Clerk of Court Rebecca Hill

Before Murdaugh killed his wife and son, state and federal investigators said he stole millions from clients who suffered debilitating injuries and who needed money for medical care.

He is charged with stealing from his familys law firm and helping run a drug ring to launder money. Authorities said Murdaugh asked a friend to kill him on the side of a lonely highway so his son would get $10m in life insurance. The shot only grazed his head.

In federal court, Murdaugh faces 14 counts of money laundering, five counts of wire fraud, one count of bank fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Court records didnt indicate whether theres an agreement to drop any charges in exchange for a guilty plea.

Each charge carries at least a maximum of 20 years in prison. Some have a maximum 30-year sentence.

The court appearance on Thursday comes just over a week after Murdaughs defence attorneys filed a bombshell motion requesting a new trial based on allegations of inappropriate behaviour by Colleton County Clerk of Court Rebecca Hill.

The South Carolina Attorney Generals Office was given 10 days to respond to this motion  which gives them until Friday.
 Close Court clerk's co-author responds to Murdaugh's jury tampering allegations

Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Prosecutors have responded to Alex Murdaughs motion for a new trial on the grounds of jury tampering allegations at his murder trial, stating that South Carolina investigators have found significant factual disputes with the claims.

The response filed on Friday by South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson concedes a hearing may be needed to decide if the killer should get a new trial - but moved to dismiss the motion for a procedural defect in the filing.

Its the states first response to the bombshell motion filed by Murdaughs attorneys Jim Griffin and Dick Harpootlian last week that accused Colleton County Clerk of Court Rebecca Hill of pressuring jurors to return a guilty verdict.

An investigation was launched by the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), which the AG claims is still ongoing, but has said has revealed significant factual disputes as to claims in (Murdaughs) motion.

On Thursday, a smiling Murdaugh appeared in court for the first time since he was sentenced to life in prison for the murders of his wife Maggie and son Paul, this time to face a string of financial fraud charges.

Judge Clifton Newman set a trial date for 27 November.
 Close Danelo Cavalcante escape video

Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Escaped prisoner Danelo Cavalcante has revealed how he survived almost two weeks on the run from law enforcement in Pennsylvania, following his dramatic capture by a police dog called Yoda.

US Marshall Robert Clark told ABC News that the convicted killer had been very candid after he was captured on Wednesday morning. He told investigators how he evaded capture and survived in the woods by eating watermelon.

He stated he intended to carjack somebody in the next 24 hours and that he was going to head north to Canada, Mr Clark said. He said on multiple occasions law enforcement officers almost stepped on him, [that] we were only five or six feet away.

Pennsylvania officials said that tactical teams closed in on Cavalcante on Wednesday morning and the inmate began to crawl through heavy underbrush to get away. At that point, Yoda, a four-year-old Belgium Malinois, set out to subdue the escapee, leaving him with a face bloodied from a bite.

Cavalcante had escaped from Chester County Prison on 31 August  days after he was sentenced to life for fatally stabbing his ex-girlfriend Deborah Brandao. He is also wanted for a 2017 murder in Brazil.
 Close Arrest made in murder of Microsoft executive Jared Bridegan

Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Shanna Gardner, the ex-wife accused of orchestrating the death of Microsoft executive Jared Bridegan, appeared in a Washington court on Thursday to dispute her extradition to Florida.

Ms Gardner appeared in Benton County Superior Court after Florida governor Ron DeSantis signed an extradition order, the Jacksonville State Attorneys Office told News4Jax.

The extradition hearing was an attempt by Ms Gardners attorneys to prevent her extradition to Duval County where she faces charges of first-degree murder, solicitation to commit first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and child abuse.

The ex-wife of Bridegan is accused of hatching a murder-for-hire plot with her second husband, Mario Fernandez, to kill Bridegan by hiring Henry Tenon to shoot him.

Bridegan was dropping off his two children at Ms Gardners home in Jacksonville Beach when he was ambushed and fatally shot. One of his other children was in the car at the time.

Ms Gardner, who resides in Washington state, was arrested on 17 August  more than a year after Bridegan was killed.

The Independent has reached out to Jacksonville State Attorney for comment.
Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

A serial killers son is auctioning off the tea set she used to poison a relative and friends with cyanide.

Martin Murano plans to give the proceeds to an animal shelter.

His mother Maria de las Mercedes Bernardina Bolla Aponte de Murano  aka Yiya Murano  poisoned three people by lacing tea and petit fours with cyanide, Jam Press reports.

The victims were her cousin Carmen Zulema del Giorgio Venturini and her two friends Nilda Gamba and Lelia Formisano de Ayala. It is believed she owed money to all three women.

The killings took place between 11 February and 24 March 1979.

She was arrested at her home in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on 27 April 1979. She denied all charges but was convicted.

Her lawyers managed to get her acquitted three years later due to lack of evidence. However, in June 1985, a court annulled the previous ruling and sentenced her to life imprisonment.

Maria de las Mercedes Bernardina Bolla Aponte de Murano (Jam Press)

Murano was released ten years later after her sentence was reduced.

She quickly became something of a celebrity, with frequent appearances on Argentine TV. She remained a free woman until her death in April 2014, aged 83.

Now, her son, Martin, is auctioning the tea seat she used to poison her victims.

He wants to turn the horror of these cups she used to kill into something charitable.

Martin, who has written two books about the case, told Argentine media: This was a wedding gift from my mother in 1971. She poisoned her friends with these cups.

He revealed he has received an offer of $10,000 ( 8,000) for the set but is holding out for more.

Her son told local media: I dont intend to keep a single penny. This is going to a dog and cat shelter in Mar del Plata.

The idea is to turn the horror of these cups she used to kill into something charitable. To fill a truck with food, he added.

The set, which has only been handled by Murano and her housekeeper Ignacia, consists of six cups, a teapot, a sugar bowl, and a milk jug.

Martin said: Ive never drunk tea in these, and I dont want to touch them.
 Close UNC put on lockdown for armed and dangerous person

Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

The University of North Carolinas Chapel Hill campus was put on lockdown for the second time in two weeks after an armed person waved a gun inside a bagel shop.

An alert was sent out at 12.54pm ET on Wednesday, asking students and staff to go inside now and to avoid windows because of the threat on or near campus. An all-clear alert was put out at 2.10pm.

An official told The Daily Tar Heel that the incident came when the suspect allegedly brandished a gun at Alpine Bagel over an employment-related conflict.

No shots were fired and police said that suspect Mickel Deonte Harris, 27, was arrested at around 2.45pm just north of the campus.

This marks the second terrifying incident at the school in just over two weeks. On 28 August, the campus was on lockdown for hours amid reports of an armed and dangerous person.

That person was identified as Tailei Qi, a 34-year-old graduate student who allegedly shot and killed Zijie Yan, an associate professor in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences.
Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Independent Climate email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Extinction Rebellion protesters clashed with wealthy New Yorkers during a noisy blockade of a heliport in Chelsea.

Six climate protesters were arrested after they blocked the entrance to the JRA heliport on West 30th St for 90 minutes on Wednesday.

Footage of the clashes captured by Freedom News TV showed the chaotic scenes as cars and pedestrians were prevented from entering the heliport from just after 3pm.

A security guard appeared to shove one activist who filmed a heated encounter as a black SUV was blocked.

The protesters waved banners declaring luxury emissions and life or death, while chanting: Helicopters, private planes, your emissions are insane.

VIPs passengers arriving at the protest attempted to skirt around the picket line while chaperoned by heliport ground staff.

NYPD officers eventually arrived to disrupt the protest, and could be seen in footage shared to social media throwing Extinction Rebellion activists to the ground as they made six arrests.

An NYPD spokesperson said in a statement: At approximately 4.56pm at 30th Street and 12 Avenue, four males and two females were taken into custody and issued summonses for disorderly conduct.

Extinction Rebellion protesters blockaded the entrance to the West 30th St heliport in New York City on Wednesday (Extinction Rebellion NYC)

Blade Air Mobility, which runs the heliport, continued to land flights as the blockade went on. It runs express services from Manhattan to JFK airport for $195 per seat.

Blade states on its website that it offsets carbon emissions and is aiming to convert its fleet of short-distance aircraft to carbon neutral EVA (Electric Vertical Aircraft).

An Extinction Rebellion spokesperson said in a statement it had disrupted private helicopter takeoffs at the heliport the same way severe storms would.

Protestors warned that there are 'no luxury emissions on a dead planet', and demanded an end to fossil fuels.

It said that Blade had committed in word only to purchasing electric helicopters to replace their current fossil fuel powered fleet.

This crisis is life-threatening, and it's time we approach it as such.

Extinction Rebellion activist last week disrupted the US Tennis Open semi-final between Coco Gauff and Karolina Muchova when one glued their feet to the floor in a spectator section of Arthur Ashe Stadium.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Kim Jong Uns security team scrupulously inspected his chair and wiped it down with disinfectant before he could sit at Putins summit.

Video footage published by te Kommersant newspaper on Thursday showed a North Korean security official in white gloves attentively wiping down Kims black chair and spraying an unidentified substance.

The North Korean sprayed and wiped down the seat, the hands, the legs and even the area around the chair as a Kremlin bodyguard looked on in a slightly bemused way.

Another North Korean guard then gave some sort of order to the guard doing the disinfecting. The nature of the order was unclear.

The chair turned out to be the subject of the greatest concern of the North Korean side, wrote Kommersants Kremlin correspondent, Andrei Kolesnikov.

According to reports, Kims security team of 100 people were unhappy with the first chair provided and demanded another one, the Kommersant said.

North Korea Russia

Then a North Korean employee wiped the chair intended for Kim Jong Un for several minutes without stopping, wearing white gloves: judging by the smell he disinfected it, said Kommersant, one of Russias leading newspapers.

Others have speculated the security team also carried out a vigrous check to ensure the chair could handle the North Koreans weigh and that one guard used a metal detector to check the seat for booby traps and angerous devices.

Putin and Kim discussed military matters, the war in Ukraine and possible Russian help for North Koreas satellite programme.
The Kremlin has said that Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un held "important talks" at the remote Russian Vostochny Cosmodrome. Discussions lasted several hours, both with their ministers and then one-on-one, followed by an opulent lunch of Russian "pelmeni" dumplings made with Kamchatka crab and then sturgeon with mushrooms and potatoes.

So what are the main things we should takeaway from this rare meeting between the two leaders?
 Close Aftermath of Russian missile strike on Ukraine mail depot that killed six

For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Ukrainian troops have made confirmed advances near Bakhmut, Donetsk, and Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia, according to the Institute for the Study of War.

Geolocated footage posted on 30 October shows that Ukrainian forces have advanced northeast of Kurdyumivka (10km southwest of Bakhmut), it said.

Ukrainian forces have also marginally advanced west of Robotyne, Zaporizhzhia, according to geolocated footage seen by the think tank.

It comes as Kyiv said it had successfully hit a strategic object of the air defence system in western Crimea. Russian sources said the attack was carried out using combined long-range weapons like ATACMS, storm shadow missiles and sea drones.

The Russian Ministry of Defence confirmed its air defence systems destroyed eight Storm Shadow cruise missiles over the peninsula.

If confirmed, this would be the first time Ukraine has used the top-tier missile system provided by the US to hit targets on the Crimean coast.

Meanwhile, Russia has bulked up its forces around the devastated city of Bakhmut in the east and has switched its troops from a defensive posture to taking active actions, a Ukrainian military commander said.
Sign up to our free weekly IndyTech newsletter delivered straight to your inbox Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

IndyTech email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Frances ban of iPhone 12 sales due to radiation fears could have Europe-wide implications, regulators in Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands have warned.

Apple will have to recall all iPhone 12 phones in France if corrective updates do not work, the countrys National Frequency Agency (ANFR) said on Tuesday, after tests revealed electromagnetic radiation that was 40 per cent above the legal limit.

On Wednesday, the Dutch digital watchdog said it was looking into the ANFR report and is seeking an explanation from the US tech giant.

A norm has been exceeded. Fortunately, there is no acute safety risk but we will very shortly have a talk with producer, Angeline van Dijk, an inspector with the Nederlandse Rijksinspectie Digitale Infrastructuur (RDI), told the Dutch newspaper Algemeen Dagblad.

The Netherlands attaches as much importance as France to safe use of mobile phones. Mobile phones must comply with European norms.

Belgium and Germany followed with statements of their own on Thursday, with network regulators saying that the French procedure could have a guiding function for the whole of Europe.

The Independent has reached out to Apple for comment.

Jean-Noel Barrot, Frances junior minister for digital economy, said on Tuesday that the ANFRs data would be shared with other EU member states, potentially leading to a snowball effect for Apple.

Apple is expected to respond within two weeks, he told the French newspaper Le Parisien.

If they fail to do so, I am prepared to order a recall of all iPhones 12 in circulation. The rule is the same for everyone, including the digital giants.

The iPhone 12 series of smartphones were already set to be discontinued following the unveiling of the iPhone 15 on Tuesday, meaning any sales ban would not have a significant impact on Apples phone sales.

A continent-wide recall would have considerable implications for the worlds richest company, however, if a solution is not found.
Sign up to our free weekly IndyTech newsletter delivered straight to your inbox Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

IndyTech email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

Nasa has released the first findings from its report into unidentified anomalous phenomena, or UFOs.

The US space agency commissioned the study in response to a variety of reports of what appear to be unexplained and unknown craft, reported by US pilots and others.

It said that unidentified anomalous phenomena, or UAP, are defined as observations of events in the sky that cannot be identified as aircraft or known natural phenomena from a scientific perspective. It noted that there are very few high-quality observations of the phenomena, which makes them difficult to understand scientifically.

The first report found there is no reason to conclude that existing UAP reports have an extraterrestrial source, however Nasa chief Bill Nelson said he personally believes aliens are out there.

There is a global fascination with UAPs, he said. Much of that fascination is due to the unknown nature of it.

A media briefing on the report was live streamed from Nasas official YouTube channel.
Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice

For destinations the world over, theres a delicate balance to be struck. Following the pause of tourism during Covid restrictions, many places reliant on tourism were champing at the bit to lure back holidaymakers once travel opened up again. But there are tourists  and then there are too many tourists.

Post-pandemic, the influx of millions of visitors to tourist-strewn towns has, in some cases, risen to levels above those seen in 2019. Too much tourism threatens to disrupt residents, natural ecosystems and contribute to transport pollution.

Unesco has warned of potential damage to protected areas and Fodors No Travel List recommended reconsidering a visit to suffering cultural hotspots with overstretched infrastructure, such as Dubrovnik, in 2023.

Some destinations themselves have started taking a stand. Italys hardened approach to tackling the issue is leading the charge against overtourism in peak season, and countries looking to maintain tradition and encourage sustainability through a redirection to low-impact tourism have followed suit.

Bans on cruise ships, short-term holiday rentals such as Airbnb and caps on visitor numbers are among the ways destinations are trying to get a handle on escalating tourism, alongside championing considerate behaviour.

As Venice gears up to introduce a tourist tax and ticketing system in its historic centre, here are the destinations cracking down on tourism, from Bhutan to Athens.

Read more on overtourism:

Italy

Day trippers to Venice will be charged 5 to enter the historic centre (Getty Images) open image in gallery

Venice

Set to introduce tourist entry fees come spring 2024, Venice is heeding Unesco warnings of irreversible damage to its historic centre. Day-tripping tourists will incur a 5 charge and a ticketing system as part of plans to tackle overtourism in the popular canal city flooded with 20 million visitors annually. The tax follows the Italian citys decision to ban cruise ships from the centre in 2019 after an incident where a cruise liner hit a dock.

Portofino

In Portofino, tourists lingering in viral Instagram spots to take selfies could be fined 275 (242) for creating a dangerous situation. Implemented red zones or no waiting areas are intended to prevent traffic jams and congested pavements in the picturesque Italian Riviera town during peak season, April to October. Mayor of Portofino Matteo Viacava said tourists pausing to take pictures cause anarchic chaos and added in a statement to The Times: The objective is not to make the place more exclusive but to allow everyone to enjoy our beauty.

Rome

Romes rules prevent going topless, eating messy food and leaving love padlocks (Getty Images/iStockphoto) open image in gallery

Visitors to Rome may face severe fines or even bans at attractions in a crackdown on out-of-line tourist behaviour in the Italian capital. Since 2019 men are no longer allowed to go shirtless in public, love padlocks are forbidden from being attached to bridges and those caught snacking on messy foods around busy tourist attractions (specifically the Trevi Fountain), could also be fined. The regulations may also incur a warning from police patrolling attractions.

Sardinia

Travellers to Sardinia are warned against wandering on the inviting pink sands of Spiaggia Rosa at risk of a fine ranging from 500 (428) up to 3,500 (2,993). A stricter enforcement of the Budelli Island beach ban, first introduced over 30 years ago, stems from concerns that tourism poses a danger to the pink micro-organisms that live on the shore. In 2022, visitor numbers on five Sardinian beaches were capped at 60 and 3 per person, per day visitor fees were implemented in a bid to protect the islands shores from litter.

Florence

In June, Florence banned the use of Airbnbs and short-term private holiday rentals in its historic city centre. The Unesco World Heritage Site is home to around 11,000 short-term private rental properties and housing stock in the area had depleted the availability of affordable housing for full-time residents.

Trentino Alto Adige

New rules limiting the number of overnight guests in Trentino Alto Adige could make it more difficult for holidaymakers to find accommodation in the Italian regions areas of natural beauty including a famed glacial lake, Lago di Braies. The number of visitors staying in the area will be capped at 2019 levels in an effort to combat overtourism, top attractions including the Alpe di Siusi will require pre-registration and no new guest houses are permitted to open.

Athens, Greece

Athens capped the number of Acropolis tourists to 20,000 a day (Getty Images) open image in gallery

The famed Greek Acropolis capped visitor numbers at 20,000 in September 2023 to reduce footfall at the ancient monument. Visitors will also have to book a time slot in advance with caps changing from hour to hour between 8am and 8pm. The Greek culture minister, Lina Mendoni said: The measure will address the need to protect the monument, which is the main thing for us, as well as [improving] visitors experience of the site.

Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatts mayor intended to reduce tourist footfall by a third in 2020 (Getty Images) open image in gallery

The Austrian town said to have inspired Frozens Arendelle, Hallstatt, took measures to deter tourists from visiting the fairytale spot by constructing wooden fences that obstruct lakeside views of the area that make for a popular selfie backdrop. Pre-pandemic, foot traffic to the protected Unesco site was averaging 10,000 visitors a day prompting Alexander Scheutz, Hallstatts mayor, to cap the number of tour buses and cars allowed to enter the area with the intention of reduce tourism numbers by at least a third.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Tourism in the Galapagos is tightly controlled with strict regulations on land and sea enforced by the Galapagos National Park Service. These include walking only on marked trails, visiting protected areas with a specialized guide only and not visiting the islands main natural beauty spots on privately owned yachts. All tourists visiting the archipelago must also pay an entry tax  $100 for those over 12 years old and $50 for those under.

Boracay, Philippines

In 2018, Boracay, a popular tourist island in the Philippines, was closed for six months after the countrys president declared the once-white sand beaches cesspools. Sewage problems from hotels and restaurants accommodating the tourism industry threatened to take the environment of the idyllic island past the point of no return.

Maya Beach, Thailand

A swimming ban remains in place at reopened Maya Beach to protect the coral (Getty Images) open image in gallery

Famous as the setting for the Hollywood blockbuster The Beach, Maya Bay in Ko Phi Phi Leh, Thailand, was closed in the summer of 2018 to restore the natural landscape, ecosystems and coral reefs overwhelmed by 5,000 tourists a day. The beach reopened in January 2022 but swimming in the bay remains banned to protect the restored coral and black-tipped reef shark population. Visitors are also only allowed to visit for an hour and motorboats are banned from the bay itself.

Penang, Malaysia

Penang became the first destination in Southeast Asia to ban short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb holiday homes in June 2023 as a result of the behaviour of international tourists negatively impacting local residents. Under the regulations, only commercial properties are now able to host guests on a short-term basis  this is subject to registration fees and a 75 per cent approval from the other residents in the hosts building.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is mulling over a tourist tax to combat unruly behaviour (Getty Images) open image in gallery

Indonesian tourism giant, Bali has proposed a tourist tax to discourage unruly tourists from visiting the low-cost island. Visitors could be forced to pay between $30-$100 (24-80) if the proposal is agreed, plus a tourist handbook outlining acceptable behaviour could also be distributed to travellers as part of further measures by the Bali Tourism Board.

Okinawa, Japan

The Galapagos of the East, Okinawa in Japan introduced a cap on visitor numbers to combat over tourism and protected an endangered species of indigenous wild cat, the Iriomote cat. As of April 2023, a maximum of 1,200 tourists a day will be able to travel to the Iriomote island of the Okinawa prefecture in a bid to preserve the ecosystem and the quality of life for permanent residents.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Brits were urged to stay away by authorities in Amsterdam due to complaints of antisocial behaviour during stag parties and pub crawls. The Dutch capitals campaign in March 2023 targeted search engine keywords including stag party Amsterdam and pub crawl Amsterdam when entered by British internet users; a warning video consequently popped up.

Barcelona, Spain

By 2024 Barcelona will increase its municipal tourist tax to 6.75 per night (Getty Images) open image in gallery

Barcelona is set to increase its municipal tourist tax from 5.25 to 6.75 per night by 2024 for guests staying in a five-star hotel, with the sum paid to Barcelonas Generalitat and the City Council. The surcharge is on top of the general nightly tourist tax paid to the region that was imposed in the summer of 2020 and, as a result, means that by April 2024 five-star hotel guests will pay 47.25 (42) per seven-night stay on top of their hotel room rate.

French Polynesia

The pristine Pacific islands of French Polynesia plan to cap annual tourist numbers in a sustainability push. Local cruise lines with up to 700 passengers will take priority over international cruise ships and the cap will not exceed 300,000 visitors a year  equivalent to one tourist per local.

France

Street art of giant rat traps intended to deter tourists in Nice (Getty Images/iStockphoto) open image in gallery

French tourism minister, Olivia Gregoire presented a roadmap to combat over tourism by regulating tourism flows and supporting local authorities experiencing visitor surges in June. Iconic French attractions such as the Mont-Saint-Michel abbey in Normandy and the Louvre Museum previously risked being overwhelmed by the volume of visitors. The government will launch the 1m campaign in March 2024.

Machu Picchu, Peru

In 2019, the bucket-list Unesco site Machu Picchu introduced a strict ticketing system and time slots to tackle overtourism. Visitors must now arrive within a specific time slot with a four-hour time limit for each visit and a set closing time of 5.30pm. Previous rules already outlined that visitors were only able to enter Machu Picchu with an official tour guide, group sizes were limited to 16 people and defined routes had to be followed around the site.

Cornwall, UK

Cornish holiday lets face a compulsory registration proposal to ease the pressure on the property market (Getty Images) open image in gallery

Cornish holiday lets are facing a compulsory registration proposal to combat overtourism during peak periods. Short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo have created an influx of additional holiday accommodation properties to the already growing housing crisis in Cornwall. This March, the government also proposed a 160m crackdown on problematic behaviour, including in short-term holiday lets.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

A Respect the City campaign in Dubrovnik introduced new measures for visitors to the Unesco World Heritage city, including bans on walking around in swimwear, driving without special permission, eating and drinking around cultural monuments and climbing on the city walls. All offences are punishable by fines and criminal charges.

US National Parks

In the US, the National Park Service implemented a timed entry reservation system at $2 per car to control vehicle traffic and footfall during peak seasons at five of its most popular parks. These include Arches National Park, Glacier National Park and the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu aims to bring visitor numbers to a more sustainable level (Getty Images/iStockphoto) open image in gallery

Hawaii is cracking down on visitor numbers to take care of its unique natural environment, repair coral reefs and maintain state parks and trails. A tourist fee is being considered in the state that would require tourists to pay for a year-long licence or pass to visit Hawaiian state parks and trails. Democratic Gov. Josh Green said: We get between nine and 10 million visitors a year [but] we only have 1.4 million people living here. Those 10 million travellers should be helping us sustain our environment.

Bhutan, The Himalayas

Since the country opened to tourism in 1974, visitors to Bhutan must pay a Sustainable Development Fee of US$200 (163) per day to restrict footfall on the landlocked Himalayan nation and encourage high value, low impact tourism. The tourism tax was lowered in June for travellers who opt to stay longer, meaning travellers who stay for eight days will pay $800 (627), a saving of $800.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin convened at a rocket launch facility in the Russian Far East on Wednesday in their first summit in four years.

After visiting the Vostochny Cosmodrome, Putin decided to show Kim his armoured Aurus limousine, inviting him to take a seat inside.

Their meeting location shows that Putin is ready to share Russian rocket and space technology with Pyongyang in exchange for access to North Korea's arms stockpiles for the war in Ukraine.

The talks between the two leaders were expected to focus on expanding military cooperation amid their intensifying confrontations with the West.
Susanna Reid was in disbelief as she read out a Metropolitan Police statement after the force paid substantial damages to two women arrested at the Sarah Everard vigil in Clapham Common.

As she began to read the police statement, Susanna was stopped in her tracks.

The statement from the force reads: The actions of individual officers were found by His Majestys Inspectorate of Constabularies to have been appropriate.

They acted in good faith, interpreting complex and changing legislation in very challenging circumstances in a way that was entirely consistent with their colleagues working across London at the time.

Susanna claims: There was nothing appropriate about it.

This is remarkable.
Irish tech consulting firm Auxilion is investing 4.6m in a new base in Sheffield as part of a larger expansion into the UK.

The move is expected to double the companys UK capacity, bringing its headcount to 160 by the end of next year.

The Enterprise Ireland-backed firm has created 34 new roles in the UK so far this year as part of a 17.5m multi-year expansion.

The creation of the new operations centre in Sheffield is the first phase of that plan.

Having laid down a solid foundation in Ireland over many years, this investment and expansion in our centre of excellence is a significant milestone in delivering on our UK growth strategy, said Philip Maguire, Auxilions chief executive officer.

We are committed to continually building the most progressive and innovative IT managed services capabilities in Ireland, the UK and further afield.

This isnt just about expanding our physical footprint but investing in new technologies, processes, training and development and creating skilled jobs in the region.

Auxilion recently secured a new 9.3m contract with an unnamed global health and life sciences multinational, to be delivered out of its Sheffield centre.

The firm manages large-scale IT projects for customers across Ireland and the UK, including the move to cloud computing.

Mr Maguire said the company was still on the acquisition trail in the UK.

Were very excited and optimistic about the future of our growing operations, both here and in the UK, with incredible opportunities for success ahead.

Deirdre McPartlin, Enterprise Irelands regional director for the UK and Nordics region, said Auxilions plans would positively impact both their Irish and UK operations.

Auxilion has invested significantly in the north of England, leading to strong results, including winning a new 8m (9.3m) IT managed services contract to be delivered out of Sheffield.

The Auxilion team has ambitious plans to continue to scale their presence in the region and Enterprise Ireland will continue to support them on their scaling journey.

A recent survey by Auxilion found that 73pc of Irish IT leaders said a cloud outage would be catastrophic for their business, with 77pc worried that it could happen. But a separate survey found that 47pc of firms fear there will be security risks with a move to the cloud.
Efectivos de la @PoliciaPeru patrullan la zona en espacios estrategicos de la linea fronteriza.



??? Enterate mas ?? https://t.co/M5TjWBfHBO#PorUnPaisSeguro #Tacna #Chile pic.twitter.com/LcVfLdHzcK
The Drake Inn had been trading for several years until it closed in 2009 and it has been derelict since

A development site with planning permission for a mixed-use project in the centre of Finglas village, Dublin 11, has come to the market with a guide price of more than 1.5m.

The site known as the former Drake Inn public house, has recently received full planning permission for the development of 25 apartments with a ground floor retail unit and gastropub included.

Agent Cushman & Wakefield has been instructed to sell the site.

The Drake Inn had been trading for several years until it closed in 2009 and it has been derelict since.

The property currently comprises a two-storey building over basement which extends to about 1,786 sqm (19,224 sqft) and sits on a site that extends to about 0.22 acres.

It benefits from a significant profile onto both Main Street and Jamestown Road thanks to its road frontage of about 63 metres.

Its planning permission includes seven one-bedroom apartments; 12 two-beds and five three-beds, and the scheme will extend to six-storeys over basement level.

The development will also include storage for 74 bicycle storage spaces. While there will be no car-parking spaces included within the finished scheme, Finglas benefits from regular bus services to the city centre.

It is understood that the vendor is an Irish investor. The planning permission was granted to a business named Mulsh Sarl which at one stage had sought permission for as many as 37 apartments and a gastropub, but that application was refused permission by the city council.

In 2014 the property went for auction with a 450,000 to 490,000 guide price but is believed to have been bought for more than that figure.

Paul Nalty and Sean Kellegher of Cushman & Wakefield are handling the sale and commented: The incoming buyers should also benefit from temporary government incentives such as the waving of local development contributions and water connection charges associated with new residential builds.

Finglas is an established suburb of Dublin city with a range of amenities that services its existing residents.

The site is also conveniently located adjacent to the N2, which is the main connectivity route for Finglas into Dublin city centre, situated just 5.5km to its south-east. There has been a notable lack of new development within the vicinity and consequently there is expected demand for new units.
Lauren Sharpe (BGF) with mother and daughter co-founders Ailish Kelly and Niamh Murdock of the Avoca Clinic

The Avoca Clinic, an Irish cosmetic surgery practice, has received a 7m investment from equity fund BGF.

The company, which was founded in 2012, now has three clinics in Wicklow, Limerick and Dundalk.

It employs more than 40 people, including specialist plastic surgeons.

The Avoca Clinic offers a range of surgical and non-surgical treatments across these locations, including body and facial procedures.

The business is led by chief executive Niamh Murdock and sales director Ailish Kelly, a daughter-mother duo who have a combined total of 25 years experience in the cosmetic surgery industry.

The 7m investment from BGF will be used to finance an expansion of the companys surgical capacity, with plans to increase the number of clinics across the country. BGF will also take a significant minority position in the business.

BGF investor Lauren Sharpe will join the board while Noel Daly will take on the role as non-executive chairman.

Mr Daly has more than 40 years experience in healthcare systems all over the world.

He is the current chairman of Northern Irish healthcare products manufacturer Eakin Healthcare Group, as well as a non-executive director of private hospital business Kingsbridge.

We are delighted to welcome BGF as an investor in the Avoca Clinic, Ms Murdock said. This investment, and the expertise that BGF and Noel Daly as our chairman will bring, will support our plans to expand our surgical capacity and footprint across Ireland in this next phase of growth for the clinic.

Ms Sharpe said that the investment underscored the groups confidence in the clinics potential to grow regionally and expand its offering.

The Avoca Clinic is an extremely well-run Irish healthcare business with ambitious growth plans, added Mr Daly. This is also the growth capital investors 15th investment in Ireland since it started operations here six years ago.

Last week, BGF announced a multimillion euro investment into Galway specialist marine business Ocean Crest Marine. Its investment into the Avoca Clinic business is its third into a female-led Irish business.

BGF is supported by the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund, as well as AIB and Bank of Ireland. The fund makes equity investments of between 1m and 10m in Irish companies, with further funding available in subsequent rounds.
Glenveagh Properties has reported an 89pc decline in profit before tax in the first half of the year.

However, the company highlighted an uptick in planning permission approvals granted in the period.

Profit before tax was 1.4m, down from 13m in the first six months of 2022.

Overall, the company has been granted planning permission for around 4,000 units so far this year, with 700 of these in post-grant appeal periods.

Chief executive Stephen Garvey pointed to planning reform as part of the solution to the housing crisis.

The planning system, I was very critical of it last year, [it] didnt function. It is now starting to function, Mr Garvey said.

He also pointed to the large-scale residential development (LRD) process that replaced the strategic housing development (SHD) process.

LRD took all the good points of SHD, and took all the bad points and eliminated them and made the process better, he said.

The Planning Bill is working its way through. The balance needs to be found between protecting peoples rights and having a functioning planning system.

He added that the company is seeing people who live 200 miles from developments objecting to them on spurious grounds.

That is not right, he said. They are the things that need to be addressed in the Planning Bill.

Mr Garvey added that he has been critical of the National Planning Framework due to how conservative it has been on population growth estimates

We need to be ambitious by instead of creating a ceiling, creating a floor of how many units are delivered per year, Mr Garvey said.

Mr Garvey also pointed to a focus on new opportunities to partner with multiple State agencies as part of the Governments housing initiatives.

The business has now commenced works on both the Ballymastone and Oscar Traynor Road sites, with the home builder expecting revenue of over 100m from its partnerships business segment by the end of next year.

The biggest challenge the industry will face is a shortage of labour, according to Mr Garvey.

The population has grown but the amount of people working in construction has not grown, he pointed out.

At the moment, its not delaying us. We have a commercial market that is cooling down so that should free up a certain amount of labour, he added.

Mr Garvey said economic challenges in the UK market could free up labour that could move here.

The Irish-listed home builder attributed the fall in profits to lower revenues in its urban division, reflecting a higher comparative to the first half of last year which included the disposal of a site in the Dublin Docklands.

The company also pointed to a rise in financing costs in recent months.

Total revenue was down 14pc to 171.6m in the six months to June this year.

Urban revenue was down 44pc to 61.9m, while suburban revenue rose by 23pc to 109.7m.

Gross margin was 16.3pc for the period, down from 16.5pc at the same time last year.

The company reported that all suburban units capable of closing in 2023 are now closed, reserved or are currently in contract.

The urban business is expected to generated over 120m of total revenue in 2023.
Also says that land for sale between Dublin runways is only of use to DAA

Ryanair boss Michael OLeary has said he as no sympathy for campaigners living near Dublin Airport who say theyve been impacted by aircraft noise from the gateway.

The DAA, which operates Dublin Airport, was last month hit by an enforcement notice from Fingal County Council regarding the use of the new runway there.

A planning condition attached to the runway limits the total number of flights at Dublin Airport to 65 between 11pm and 7am. But the airport already handles more than that during the time period.

The airport operator successfully secured leave from the High Court to apply for a judicial review in the case and secured a stay on Fingals enforcement order.

The DAA, whose CEO is Kenny Jacobs, is still waiting on An Bord Pleanala to decide on an appeal regarding the planning condition.

The planning restriction is nonsense, said Mr OLeary on Thursday. He was speaking after the airlines annual general meeting.

ARCHIVE: Video compares noise around Dublin Airport before and after flight paths were changed

It means that now theres less flights between the hours of 6 oclock and 7 oclock in the morning with two runways than there was when there was only one runway. Its a nonsense planning condition. It should be amended. If you want to reduce noise at Dublin Airport, it should be done by measuring noise, not restricting the number of flights.

Fingal County Council, whose Aircraft Noise Competent Authority is responsible for monitoring the impact of aircraft noise on communities around Dublin Airport, has previously conceded that a noise quota is a more appropriate method of assessing how many flights should operate at night.

The DAA has proposed that instead of the existing planning condition, that a noise quota count system be introduced for the hours of 11.30pm to 6am at the airport.

Its critical, insisted Mr OLeary, adding that the noise restriction could be moved from midnight to 6am and the problem will be solved.

He claimed local communities are making a big dog and pony show about the runway and flights at Dublin Airport.

Some of these complainers are self-appointed  they live in Ballyboughal, which isnt even on the flightpath, said Mr OLeary.

So, no, I dont have any sympathy. If you live somewhere around an airport, you should expect some noise. The noise at Dublin Airport is less than it is in the centre of Dublin and in any of the train stations.

The Ryanair chief also said that he believes the DAA should buy land currently up for sale by the McEvaddys and other parties thats situated between its runways.

Mr Jacobs has insisted that the semi-State company wont pay crazy prices for the land. It has submitted a bid of under 70m, but the sellers are hoping to attract a price of at least 120m, citing the potential of the land for a third passenger terminal.

The Irish Independent recently revealed that the Galway-based billionaire Comer brothers are among those who have made a bid for the land.

I think the only people who will buy it will be Dublin Airport, insisted Mr OLeary. The land is essentially sterile, its between the two runways and I think the more the owners of the land complain about the price that the DAA is offering, I think its evident that they only have one buyer.

However, the sellers have previously indicated that there has been significant interest in the land from bidders.

I think its in Irelands interest that the land is bought by the DAA, said Mr OLeary.
PrepayPower is the fifth energy provider to cut its prices

The countrys largest pay-as-you-go energy provider PrepayPower is the latest to cut its prices.

It is reducing the price of its electricity by 12.8pc, with gas going down by 13.5pc, but the cuts will not take effect until November 1.

The company said that based on typical usage patterns, the reduction will mean a saving of approximately 435 a year for a typical dual-fuel customer  a customer using both gas and electricity from the company.

A typical electricity customer will save 223 in a year in electricity costs from the latest cut, the company said.

PrepayPower said it has over 180,000 customers and is the largest provider of pay-as-you-go energy in the market in Ireland.

A spokesman for PrepayPower said: We are delighted to announce these price reductions for our customers today. Our customers will continue to benefit from standard rates that are amongst the lowest in the market, significantly cheaper than the standard rates from many bill pay suppliers.

It is the fifth supplier to cut its prices.

Last week SSE Airtricity, one of the big four suppliers in the market, said it is reducing electricity unit rates for its household customers by 12pc from November 1.

The price reduction will see a typical electricity customer save 233 (including Vat) a year, it said.

Charlie Weston: How Irish households are paying way over the odds for electricity

Gas customers will see standard unit rates come down by 10pc.

There is no reduction in its standing charge.

It comes after the largest electricity supplier in the State, Electric Ireland, this week said it was reducing electricity and gas unit prices and the standing charges from the start of November.

The Electric Ireland reduction in residential electricity unit rates and standing charges works out at 10pc, and equates to an annual saving of 212 on the average electricity bill.

Electric Ireland residential gas unit rates and standing charges are coming down by 12pc, which equates to an annual saving of 217.

This would be a combined annual reduction of 429 for Electric Irelands dual-fuel customers, it said.

Energia announced price reductions of up to 20pc last week, with Pinergy giving its customers two price cuts so far this year.

However, there is still no word from larger player Bord Gais Energy on cutting its prices.

PrepayPower recently set up a separate bill-pay energy provider, Yuno Energy.

It is promising it can save customers more than 500 a year on their electricity bills by closely monitoring their energy usage at home.

Earlier this week Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he has told energy companies that they must go further to reduce prices in future billing cycles.

The Taoiseach and Minister for Environment and Climate Eamon Ryan met with Irelands four largest energy retailers  SSE Electricity, Bord Gais Energy, Energia and Electric Ireland  on Tuesday to express concern at persistently high energy prices.
Shoppers check out products at an Apple store in Chongqing, China. Photo: Costfoto/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Smartphones are suddenly headline news again. Just last week, hundreds of billions of dollars got zapped from Apples market value, and the entire global supply chain was jolted by aftershocks, while shares in Chinese tech manufacturers leapt.

At the heart of it? The US-China conflict and the way its playing out in the smartphone market.

Two moves out of China triggered the latest convulsions: Huawei Technologies attention-grabbing, mostly made-in-China Mate 60 phone and the expansion of a ban on iPhones among Chinese government agencies.

A whirlwind of patriotic sentiment on the mainland is now being studied by analysts, the boldest of which is forecasting as much as 38pc of iPhone sales in China being affected by Huaweis new phone.

The importance of government agencies as consumers of devices in China cant be overstated. They account for millions of units and, moreover, set the tone for what businesspeople in the country are most likely to buy.

Lest we forget, China has done something similar before  just on a grander scale  via whats now known as the Great Firewall.

When it cut off its population of 1.4 billion from US internet services like Google and Facebook, it fuelled the empires that eventually became Alibaba Group Holding and Tencent Holdings.

Even so, the anticipated factor of Huawei on Apples business in the country is even more curious. To me, it signals how the hardware game is now also one where winning and losing is controlled by higher powers.

The importance of government agencies as consumers of devices in China cant be overstated

In a simpler time, Nokia and BlackBerry lost their global market share to market forces. Faster, smarter, more aggressive plays by Apple and Alphabets Google won the day, unaided by geopolitical machinations.

Then everything changed in 2019 when the Trump administration shot an arrow into the knee of Huaweis smartphone business.

The company that was threatening to become Chinas Apple suddenly had to limp along without access to key technology and software.

So, blame should be attributed in both directions. The US brutalised (more than one) Chinese business in a way that perhaps wasnt strictly necessary to ensure its national security, as officials have long argued.

And now China is making moves that, likewise, arent especially urgent on national security grounds but send a message back.

Most of the worlds smartphone customers will weigh Apples new phones on their merits, such as better cameras and the switch from Apples proprietary Lightning port to USB-C.

A notable portion of the worlds largest smartphone market wont pay attention to any of that.

For some in China, Apple is out of contention.

That the worlds most valuable company is squarely in the middle of this geopolitical hailstorm makes for a compelling story for the rest of this year.

And here we were, thinking the only hot tech story for the rest of our lives would be artificial intelligence.
From the call of the corncrake to the heyday of the Housewife of the Year, The Nine OClock Show gave us some perfect radio

Now it is Maura Derranes turn to take over the haunted territory of The Nine OClock Show (RTE Radio 1), and it is no easy task. Oliver Callan has done his duty  very well  and back in the mists of memory, Ryan Tubridy did it so well that this slot in the schedules was named after him. But that was before the summer, as people in RTE euphemistically put it.

Onto this blasted heath, on which the craters are still smoking, steps Derrane, light but clever: a combination of qualities that is very rarely found. She started by telling us that she was very nervous and had a bottle of Rescue Remedy to hand.

Amazingly, for a television presenter of such experience, she told us that she had never worked this way in radio before. She explained how her son had given her a motivational talk, and had urged her not to turn into Puke Girl. Then she explained how Puke Girl is the rookie journalist in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles film who vomits with nerves. Maybe RTE could suspend its moratorium on recruitment long enough to recruit this wise child  they need him.

But maybe they need Derrane more. She is very likely the only presenter at Montrose who was repeatedly woken during the nights of her childhood by the cry of the corncrake, a cry she impressively reproduced on Monday. Derrane grew up on Inis Mor. The corncrake was everywhere on the islands when I was a child, she said. After the commercial break The Nine OClock Show had found a recording of the real corncrake. People were contacting the programme with news of the corncrakes revival.

And then we were off, into memories of the Calor Kosangas Housewife of the Year competition, which ran from 1967 to 1995.

This discussion featured an academic researcher and Jane Kelly, who had won Housewife of the Year in 1972. There was a magazine at that time, said Kelly, Womans Way. Still is, shot back Derrane, sharp as a tack.

Kelly, a teacher originally from Claremorris, was a gift to any radio show. Imagine Masterchef she explained. Except you had to bring all your own ingredients.

For the final in the Burlington Hotel in Dublin, Kelly had cooked seafood cocktail, pheasant and then a mandarin gateau. Listeners memories followed swiftly, including those from Grainne OKeeffe, who took part in 1997, when it was revamped with a new sponsor as the Centra Homemaker contest. OKeeffe was staying at home in order to look after her children, and being a housewife was precisely why shed entered the competition. When she was out socially with her husband, she remembered, and told people that she was a housewife: The dull face that greeted you was appalling.

On this ground, Derrane was surefooted, enthusiastic and never patronising. Kelly had brought her own photo album that recorded her reign as Housewife of the Year. The album was in mint condition. You must have very good children, said Derrane. Our photo albums are all wrecked. Well, said Kelly, she kept the album in a press.

This is radio. It was perfect.

It is no small thing to be able to be enthusiastic about the opening of new disabled parking spots in Ballymacarbry, Co Waterford. Derrane seems to have been everywhere. The parking spots were for people with hidden disabilities and are marked with a sunflower. Im not saying the whole show is perfect. The music, except for Kate Bushs Cloudbusting on Wednesday, was dreadful.

And, just as it had been before the summer, the opening moments during which the presenter goes through the newspapers in a meandering sort of way, are weak. Someone should get Derrane a scriptwriter for that bit.

Content-wise, there are problems. On Wednesday the show opened with a whole item on Joel Olympios invention of special glasses for people with ADHD. Unfortunately, he had been interviewed as the last item on Newstalk Breakfast only minutes before.

Derranes stay at The Nine OClock Show is supposed to last just two weeks. She should certainly be offered her own radio programme on a permanent basis. Now all we have to worry about is that shell leave The Afternoon Show. And that, what with her co-presenter Daithi O Se being so good on the Rose of Tralee this year, he will leave as well. Brace yourselves for a crisis.
A climate change protester who threw soup at a painting in a Cork gallery had the case against him adjourned for a month to allow a psychiatric report to be prepared.

Cork District Court was told that Thomas Shinnick (27) was "doing well" in respect of addressing personal issues and getting his life back on track.

Shinnick of Main Street, Charleville, Co Cork previously pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage to a painting, George Atkinsons work Anatomical Study, on November 10, 2022.

The young man, who is originally from Buttevant, threw soup at the painting, which was protected by a glass covering, as it was on display in the Crawford Art Gallery.

He also pleaded guilty to being in possession of a screwdriver on the same occasion.

The painting was not damaged in the incident.

However, the entire second floor of the famous gallery had to be temporarily closed to allow a clean up operation to take place.

Judge Marian O'Leary was told by defence solicitor, Diarmuid Kelleher, that his client has been making progress in terms of addressing his personal difficulties.

The young man was without a criminal record until the age of 24 when he began to experience mental health difficulties.

Judge O'Leary adjourned the case until October 12 to allow for a written psychiatric report on Mr Shinnick to be prepared for the court.

Mr Shinnick's parents previously agreed to pay the 450 which the Crawford Art Gallery spent on cleaning up the thrown soup.

It was outlined in court that their son will pay them back in instalments.

Judge O'Leary was told that Mr Shinnick is on good terms with his family who are helping him address his issues.

The young man is currently in Housing First accommodation in Charleville.

Gardai assured the court that he has stayed out of trouble and has not come to their attention.

The young man is now attending a horticulture course and hopes to get a job in that sector in the near future.

At a previous court appearance, Mr Shinnick said that his actions did not kill anyone but that climate change will.

He told Judge OLeary that he would not have thrown soup at the artwork if it wasnt protected behind glass.

He described his actions at the gallery as being a disruptive non-violent direct action.

I did no damage to the painting which was behind glass. I did not kill anyone but climate change will," he said.

"I recognise that it is a ridiculous action and I am not saying everyone should be throwing soup at paintings. I am not a criminal. I am a scared little kid trying to fight for their future.

Mr Shinnick pointed out that approximately one third of the worlds food is wasted.

That is 1.3 billion tonnes a year. Many people are living off soup kitchens in this country. My choice of vegetable soup from Penny Dinners was intended to be a reference to the current cost of living crisis in Ireland.

"The Governments Climate Action Plan is murderous, issuing new oil and gas licences. The Climate Action Plan is very aspirational and lacks substance.

Mr Shinnick had worn a plain suit for his most recent court hearings.

At an earlier court hearing he wore a navy suit with a shirt and tie and a tweed cap.

However, he also had a luminous orange high-vis work jacket over the suit.

Attached to the jacket were handwritten signs with messages which included No art on a dead planet and We wont quit.
Man accused of leaving OAP (88) with fractures to face in 500 robbery

His solicitor told the court he maintained his innocence and did not know the complainant

Robert McDonnell, of Greek Street, Dublin pictured at the Criminal Courts of Justice (CCJ) on Parkgate Street in Dublin. Pic: Paddy Cummins

Tom Tuite Thu 14 Sep 2023 at 03:30







A Dublin man accused of mugging an 88-year-old pensioner who was injured and robbed as he brought savings to his local credit union has been granted bail.
Mum of three spared jail after driving to get Calpol for her child while banned
With the imminent opening of the 2023 World Manufacturing Convention, China's independently developed high-speed maglev train with a speed of 600 kilometers per hour will make its appearance in Hefei for exhibition. It is understood that the train showcased this time is the world's first high-speed maglev transportation system with a speed rating of 600 kilometers per hour, and each train car can accommodate over a hundred passengers. Two trains, measuring 35 meters and 22 meters in length respectively, will be transported from Qingdao to Hefei. As an advanced and cutting-edge technology in international land transportation, the 600-kilometer-per-hour high-speed maglev represents the fastest achievable ground transportation speed, bridging the gap between high-speed rail and aviation. At the end of 2020, the Development and Reform Commission of Anhui Province and the Transportation Department of Anhui Province jointly issued the Plan for Anhui Province to Implement the Higher Quality Integrated Development of the Yangtze River Delta Region's Transportation System. According to the plan, efforts will be made to have the national government lay out a high-speed maglev transportation channel in the G60 Sci-Tech Innovation Corridor and initiate the research, development, and construction of the experimental project between Hefei and Wuhu (Jiangbei Industrial Clusters), gradually promoting the full construction of the high-speed maglev line in the G60 Sci-Tech Innovation Corridor, and achieving a one-hour travel time within the corridor. If the G60 Sci-Tech Innovation Corridor can achieve a one-hour travel time within the region, it means that taking the maglev train from Hefei will allow passengers to reach Hangzhou and Shanghai within one hour.

Source: Anhui Business Daily
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 13, ARMENPRESS. The Prime Ministers Office has released the full transcript of PM Pashinyans interview to POLITICO Europe.



Question  Mr. Prime Minister, thank you for the interview. Its a pleasure to be able to talk to you, despite the difficult circumstances in which we find ourselves, and the global community looking at what is happening in Armenia, Azerbaijan and also Nagorno Karabakh. Over the last few days we have seen a large number of reports of both Azerbaijani and Armenian troops squaring off against each other across the border. There is talk of significant Azerbaijani build-up along the border with both Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh, and I want to ask how close we are right now to a new conflict.



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  Because Azerbaijan has started the accumulation of forces along the border of the Republic of Armenia, the Republic of Armenia shall also take certain measures in order to defend itself. But I think that the EU civilian monitoring mission in the Republic of Armenia, which is conducting monitoring mission along the border, they can record that the Republic of Armenia has no intention for escalation, and its Azerbaijan that has started to bring its central forces towards the border with Armenia and also the entire line of contact with Nagorno Karabakh. In such a situation, unfortunately, it is not possible exclude the scenario of escalation, and the solution is that the forces that have been mobilized should be taken back to their bases. Armenia is ready to do it.



Question  But at the same time the involvement of Washington and Brussels as mediators gave hope that peace has never been closer. Do you think that peace has never been closer?



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  As you know, indeed, in my opinion very serious developments have taken place in the negotiation process. If we try to understand the peak of the seriousness of these negotiations, I must say that it is the agreements achieved between Armenia and Azerbaijan that our countries do mutually recognize each others territorial integrity: 86.600 km for Azerbaijan and 29.800 km for Armenia. In fact, this agreement can be considered a cornerstone for peace, but the problem is that for example I, after this agreement, reconfirmed it publicly, and I reconfirm also now our commitment to this agreement, but Azerbaijani position in this regard is not very clear. And this situation may also demonstrate which party is interested in this military escalation. In the other hand, I have to say that the illegal blockade of the Lachin Corridor and the continuation of the humanitarian crisis in Nagorno Karabakh is having a very negative influence on the peace process, and the sincerity is becoming questionable. I am not even saying that in the context of the agreements that I mentioned, it is very important to consider the security and right of Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh and having an international mechanism for Baku-Stepanakert dialogue.



Question  There are a number of different interpretations of Armenias position. A question to clarify. Is your recognition of the international recognized entire territory of Azerbaijan contingent on a peace deal, or do you recognize Nagorno Karabakh even before a peace treaty is signed?



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  Our agreement with Azerbaijan is that Armenia and Azerbaijan, as I said, mutually recognize each others territorial integrity: 29.800 km and 86.600 km. After this agreement in a press conference in Yerevan I was asked by a journalist if the 86.600 km of Azerbaijan includes Nagorno Karabakh, I answered yes, it includes also Nagorno Karabakh. But I also want to say that this does not mean at all that we give Azerbaijan the mandate to carry out ethnic cleansing or genocide against the people of Nagorno Karabakh. This is the reason that part of this agreement is establishing mechanisms to address the rights and security of Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh, and especially to build a reliable and meaningful Baku-Stepanakert dialogue.



Question  Do you genuinely believe now that a negotiated settlement can ensure security and rights for the Karabakh Armenians, and are you facing any pressure from the international community to accept a deal that could lead to the exodus of the Karabakh Armenians?



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  I know that such talks are being spread. I dont know, or maybe I can guess who spread them, but talking about exiting Nagorno Karabakh means agreeing with what I said: ethnic cleansing or forced removal of the Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh, because these people are living in their homes. When we are speaking about ethnic cleansing, the tool for that does not need to be physical extermination of people. Any genocide has two parts: one part is the massacre, the other part is forced exile. I have to say that there are some such talks, but there is no such agenda. Moreover, the representatives of the international community are very clear, they are saying that the Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh should be able to stay in their homes in Nagorno Karabakh without fear or persecution, they should have the opportunity to live in dignity, security and welfare.



Question  In the worst case scenario, if the international community fails to mediate a deal you would like to see, have you thought of, for example, humanitarian evacuation of the Karabakh Armenians? Is there any contingency planning your Government has done, if another conflict breaks out.



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  We should do everything to avoid that conflict. I think that the international attention that is now focused Nagorno Karabakh, the presence of peacekeepers in Nagorno Karabakh, this should be able to become sufficient mechanisms in order for the Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh to be able to live in their homes with dignity and security. Moreover, I consider the discussion of this topic useless and also dangerous, because those who circulate such talks they try to bring new agendas to the table that might mean internationally legitimating the ethnic cleansing and genocide of the Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh, whoever manages to escape from Nagorno Karabakh, good for them, whoever does not manage will be subjected to genocide. This type of ideas, the progress of such ideas, in my assessment, are indirectly encouraging the Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh to be subjected to ethnic cleansing and genocide.



Question  Over the last few days, maybe over the last week or week and a half, your government has taken extraordinary steps to build bridges with the West. You have sent humanitarian aid to Ukraine for the first time, as Russia steps up its strikes against the civilian infrastructure, your First Lady has been to Kyiv, who was received very well, you have recalled your representative from the CSTO, you have invited US soldiers to come and stage peacekeeping exercises with Armenian Armed Forces. Does this represent a step away from Russia, and is this a kind of Yerevans spring?



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  Spring in Yerevan starts in March and ends in May. By the way, summer comes in Yerevan earlier than usual. Every year we have spring, summer, fall and winter like any other country in this climate zone. But you mentioned about building bridges with the West. We do not need to build bridges, because these bridges have always been there, starting with that we have launched a strategic dialogue with the United States, which started long ago, and we have had joint military exercises in the past as well. As for Ukraine, what happened is a humanitarian step, there is no need to politicize that, because if anyone thinks that at any point we have been indifferent to any human tragedy, or we had any political calculations to express sympathy for human tragedy, this is not the right approach. We have always discussed how we can react. In this case we had this occasion that the First Lady of Ukraine organized an event, which fits in the logic of the association of the First Ladies and Gentlemen. My wife has quite actively and quite a long time been involved in these processes. This was just a part of this working agenda.



When it comes to our relations with Russia and the CSTO, here we are fully transparent. What are the problems, what are the issues there? We have spoken about this and will continue to speak both publicly and at the working level. This conversation, of course, is contingent to the state interest of the Republic of Armenia. We are guided by the state interests of Armenia. Therefore, I do not want and it cannot be so that Armenia is viewed in the role of a proxy. Indeed, the Republic of Armenia has very serious security challenges, but we see the addressing of the security challenges through strengthening our sovereignty, our independence. And as in the past, today and also in the future we will do everything to ensure our sovereignty, our independence, our security.



But conceptually, I want to share an idea with you and your audience: in general, when it comes to geopolitical centers, our relations with them are very important and decisive. I reiterate, we have never declined and we will never decline any agenda of establishing relations with any geopolitical center based on our state interests. But on the other hand, I and my political team, or my political team and me, are in harmony in this regard, and I think that our society is more and more saying the following: if we want to have a lasting, eternal statehood, first of all we need to take very serious steps to settle our relations with our neighbors.



The model that we will have problems with our neighbors and will have to invite other to protect us in those problems, no matter who these others are, is a vulnerable model, because these others at any point, for objective or subjective reasons, very often not wanting, very often for solving their own issues, may not be here. Even if they want to, they may not be able to help us. Therefore, our strategy should be to try to maximum decrease this dependence on external help.



But this is a theory, the implementation of which particularly in our region is extremely difficult. We have social, psychological, historical, geopolitical issues in our environment, in our region. By the way, our region is a very complex region, its one of the most complicated regions, but in this regard, what is happening right now and what we are doing right now is work aimed at strengthening statehood, sovereignty, independence. And I also want to add to this trilogy our agenda of strengthening democracy, strengthening our security. These are interrelated, the culmination of which in the end of the day should be the freedom and happiness of the citizens. This is the agenda that right now is guiding us to take steps and measures that are not easy, are not easily understood, and which are by and large criticized. We are resolute to share this agenda with our citizens, so that they can understand all the motivations behind our actions.



Question  You talked about independence, you talked about statehood. But when you came to power, you inherited a country where Russia has a monopoly on the railways, you have Russian armed forces, Russian border guards, you have Gazprom with a monopoly of energy supply. Do you think that gaining real and lasting independence means moving away from that relationship, where Russia has a monopoly on your security, on your energy system, and many other aspects.



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  In general, I think that today Gazprom is supplying energy not only to the Republic of Armenia. It is supplying gas also to several other countries. These are factors, the role of which, of course, should not be underestimated, but should not be overestimated either, because yes, gas is important for the economy, for everything. But again, independence, sovereignty and statehood are for the goal of not being dependent on one factor, be it gas or any other factor. And I think that when it comes to gas and independence, its not right to place these two on the same level.



Question  What I am saying is that countries like Moldova, which is comparable to your country, they have taken a course, which Russia sees as pro-Western. Russia has used energy supplies to blackmail them, I am talking more generally about Russias unparalleled influence on your country, in terms of the Russian peacekeepers



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  Such a situation has emerged as a result of the assessment of the security needs of Armenia. I do not want to underestimate any factor you mentioned. But I already said that I think our task is to settle the relations in our region in a way to minimize the need for any external support. We need to agree that this is not an easy task, but on the other hand, by defining this issue we have reached a point where we need to answer ourselves if we want to have an independent country.



If we want to have an independent, sovereign country, and we do want, we need to have ways, solutions and developments over those issues. I reiterate, by maximally avoiding finding ourselves in the center of West-East, North-South clashes. You mentioned the monopoly of Russian influence, in this period, since our independence, we have developed very serious and natural relations with the United States, which have gained a nature of strategic dialogue since 2019.



We have the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement with the EU, we have always had deep relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran, with Georgia. And now we want to settle our relations with Azerbaijan and Turkey. And here we are facing challenges, because the entire burden of the previous period is a problem that now we need to manage. We need flexibility, wisdom, we need to be sober for this. We also need to understand that this process contains very serious risks, and this is exactly what we are trying to do. But again, it is very important for us to define our goal. There are things that we are doing, but some of the citizens of the Republic of Armenia may perceive it as treason, others consider it as the correct policy, a third group of citizens may be still following us to be able to clarify their position, attitude towards us. Our policy is for the sake of having an independent state, according to the rules known to the real, modern world.



Question  Do you feel that you are getting the support you would like from the EU, from the US, for supporting Armenia to increase its sovereignty, its independence? Is there anything you would like to receive from the EU, from the US that you are not receiving, such as military exports, security guarantees?



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  Of course, support and assistance is never to much, especially for countries like Armenia. But on the other hand, I do not want and cannot act like an ungrateful. Because I consider, for example, the deployment of the civilian mission by the EU along the Armenian-Azerbaijani border quite a serious support, for which I constantly thank our partners. The EU and the United States support us also in addressing the democratic reform agenda. But again, I cannot say that the support and help we are receiving are sufficient to serve our tasks and agendas. But on the other hand, we are actively working with all our partners to make our positions more clear for them and get more support as a result.



Question  When you sit down across the table with president Aliyev in Brussels, in Washington or in Moscow, do you feel like this is a man negotiating with you in good faith?



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  You know I would not like to publicly discuss the negotiation atmosphere. The fact is that we do not have yet an atmosphere of confidence, because had we have this atmosphere of confidence, a lot of issues would not be in the situation they are now. But what is my reaction to that? To continue to work, to continue to work more consistently, try to find solutions, try to find ways for progress. All in all, whats the main problem without delving into details? The main problem is as in the past, Azerbaijan continues to apply the policy of force or threat to use force. This is greatly complicating the situation and I think it is the main obstacle for ensuring future progress. And in this regard, I think that the international community and the forces that are interested in peace and stability in our region, should exactly support the Republic of Armenia in this matter, support the efforts to establish peace in our region.



Question  Do you think the Western mediators, when they talk about effective negotiations, and at the same time it seems that nothing is really good, the military situation continues to evolve, firefights continue. Do you think there is naivety around the talks? Do you think the talks and reality are on different tracks?



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  In the negotiation process the mediators usually say that they should be neutral. My response to this is the following: I say when one of the parties is exercising force or the threat to use force, and the other party is vulnerable when it comes to security, then neutrality is encouraging the party which uses force or the threat to use force. Therefore, in this situation, neutrality in its full meaning is not really neutrality, it encourages the party that uses force or use of force. And in this regard, in such a situation the mediators who are acting in this logic, the mediation of these mediators is not effective. Because the objective and constructive function of the mediator should be to form an environment in the negotiation process in which the interest for peace would be equal for both parties.



Question  You talked about neutrality. After the 2020 war, Russia made a power attempt to come and become a security guarantor. There is a Russian-Turkish monitoring center, I don't know what happened to that. Today I was talking to a young woman from Stepanakert, who said that her brother is serving in the Defense Army, who says that they are in the trenches, facing the Azerbaijani troops. She asked where are the Russian peacekeepers, he said behind us. Do you feel let down by Russia? Do you think Russia has done not enough to uphold the 2020 agreements, when it has undertaken to keep Lachin Corridor open, to maintain the contact line that existed. Do you think Russia has failed as a security guarantor?



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  You know it is obvious that after November 9, 2020, the security situation has sharply changed in Nagorno Karabakh: violations of the line of contact, invasions into the territory of Nagorno Karabakh. We have had a case when a person doing agricultural work was killed by an Azerbaijani sniper in the presence of a Russian peacekeeper. There are obstacles for agricultural work, and finally the blockade of the Lachin Corridor, and the humanitarian crisis in Nagorno Karabakh.



All of these were supposed to be in the sphere of responsibility of the Russian peacekeepers under the trilateral declaration of November 9, 2020, and in this regard, as far as these issues exist, yes, the Russian peacekeepers have failed their mission. But on the other hand, I cannot say that if the Russian peacekeepers had not been in Nagorno Karabakh, the situation in Nagorno Karabakh now would have been better. I want to be clear on this nuance that I want us to understand well and very correctly, I think both of the approaches are correct.



Question  Why do you think the Russian peacekeeping mission has failed? Is it incompetence on the one hand, preoccupation with the war in Ukraine, or is this a deliberate decision to avoid angering Azerbaijan and Turkey? Has Russia chosen to remain aside, or it has just failed?



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  You know I think both factors could have certain role, because as a result of the events in Ukraine the capabilities of Russia have changed, but on the other hand I think that there is the second factor that you mentioned. In my assessment, both factors exist.



Question  Over the short time you were in office, you woke up to the news that a war has started in your country. You sent young boys to the battle to defend their country. There are probably not many world leaders alive who have shared the experience, but one of them is president Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine. I want to ask if you have any message to share with him?



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  You know, when I meet with Zelenskyy, I will personally share with him. I dont think its a good idea for leaders of countries to send messages to each other through interviews.



Question  I understand, thats fair enough



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  By the way, Zelenskyy was present at the last meeting of the European Political Community in Chisinau, Moldova, and I was there too. We exchanged some ideas, and we do have occasions to exchange messages. And really, I do not think its a good way to send messages in distance. We also send messages to each other on different occasions. Recently, I congratulated him on Independence Day of Ukraine.

You know, one thing in general can be said on that topic: war is a very bad thing, and when in 2020 the war started, there was a lot of talk about what I should have done to avoid the war, which is a very correct and legitimate question, after which the war in Ukraine started. And I was looking at that situation and asking myself, what should the leaders of Russia and Ukraine have done to avoid war? Everyone knows that war is a very bad thing, everyone without exception.

In all cases, everything must be done to avoid war, and this is also the reason why, regardless of all the complications, regardless of the lack of optimism, we have adopted and continue to adhere to the peace agenda, we continue to adhere to the agreements, and we hope that Azerbaijan, in turn, will finally express its commitment to the agreements reached at international platforms.



Question  You have had undoubted success in reducing corruption, strengthening institutions. This is the freest country for press, freedom of speech in the region. Could this lead Armenia to the point where Armenia might have the same aspirations as for example Georgia, to join the EU, to have closer relations with NATO. Do you think this is the course you would like to see for your country?



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  Peace is first, first and most important is peace, because peace is both a goal and means. I spoke about the sovereignty of states, I spoke about democracy, but democracy, sovereignty and peace are in the end of the day to serve the welfare, security and happiness of the people. This is my perception that we need to do everything so that the Republic of Armenia is in peace, is a country of welfare, where people can build their welfare with their creative work and feel happy.



Question  Is this a one way trip for Armenia towards democracy and peace, or you have the concern that if the crisis around Nagorno Karabakh worsens, the opposition could find more support for the idea that in this situation it would be correct to go after Russia, to join the union state in order to get security guarantees? Have you concerns that if West and democracy are perceived failed, Armenia may go back to where it was before?



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  I think in general the question whether democracy is able to ensure security is hanging in the skies, in the political skies of Armenia. A lot of things depend on the answer to this question. I really hope and I am convinced that we should do everything to ensure a positive answer to this question and this is one of the most important components of the peace agenda.



Question  And the final question. In 2020 you went through the war, you saw large number of young people buried, you spoke with their families. Shortly after the war, your father died, I am sorry about that. How has this constant fear of a new war affect you, your mental health, your well-being, your job?



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  It is very difficult not to get emotionally burnt out, because very often when I communicate with the relatives of the fallen soldiers, its clear that those conversations are not easy, but its not easy not only for them, but also for myself, because a couple of times I had the occasion to get sincere with them and tell them about my own perception, I have told them that each of them has lost one relative, a son, a soldier, but I have lost thousands. And there is no exaggeration in what I am saying. But on the other hand, if we are unable to act beyond emotions in public administration, managing the country in these high state positions, no one will benefit from this. It will not be better for the country, it will not be better for the fallen soldiers, who, in my perception, fell for the Republic of Armenia to live, and the Republic of Armenia shall live, shall develop, shall be democratic, prosperous and peaceful.

Question  Thank you, Mr. Prime Minister.



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan  Thank you.
Targeted redundancies and 2FM sell-off in the equation as new boss Kevin Bakhurst signals reforms

Chairwoman of the RTE board Siun Ni Raghallaigh and the staff representative on RTE board, Robert Shortt arrive at Leinster House to appear before the Oireachtas Media Committee yesterday. Photo: PA

A cull of staff through targeted and voluntary redundancies, a potential sale of Montrose and reducing programming are all part of a brutal cost-cutting plan at RTE.

Workers at the national broadcaster have been put on alert about a wide-ranging slimming down of the organisation, including a potential sale of assets and less investment in digital.

The sale of 2FM is also expected to be put into the equation, according to senior sources, as the station desperately seeks to restructure and raise funding.

A hiring freeze and reductions in random spending has already been initiated.

The sale of part or all of RTES Montrose campus, worth an estimated 500m, is now flagged, with valuations currently being conducted on the site.

RTE bosses have to come up with a plan of cutbacks in the next month to avail of a bailout in the Budget and get reform of the licence fee.

The national broadcaster is already looking for 35m and projecting a further 21m shortfall from people not paying their television licence.

The Government will not be giving RTE the full amount requested.

Within the Coalition, there is a demand for RTE to provide a clear plan for the future, rather than just another handout.

Staff numbers are being looked at but there is no indication of how many will be cut.

RTE director general Kevin Bakhurst yesterday committed to presenting a reform package in the coming weeks.

However, the behaviour of the previous management team in awarding themselves pay rises while coming for funding has not gone down well with the Government.

There has to be a quid pro quo, so there has to be a major reform package and Kevin Bakhurst gets that, a senior source said.

Mr Bakhurst told an Oireachtas committee that a voluntary redundancy programme would be one option to reduce the size of RTE. He said redundancy schemes would cost money and those funds were not currently available.

Part of the plan will be a smaller organisation and one of the ways of achieving that is through voluntary paid redundancies and targeted redundancy, he said.

RTE is not going bankrupt, director general insists

Many of the workforces terms and conditions are set to be examined, in addition to pay levels at the top of the organisation.

RTE bosses said there 1,100 on additional allowances worth 4m on top of their pay and there were 13 schemes for annual leave.

Mr Bakhurst warned there are far too many allowances and proposed a major review of the payments as well as a wider piece of work in relation to the 164 grades of staff.

Mr Bakhurst said a valuation on the Montrose campus was under way, to be completed within the next couple of weeks. He said all options were on the table, whether that meant the sale of another plot of land or the entire Dublin 4 headquarters.

I dont think doing nothing is really an option, he said.

Mr Bakhurst warned that the five listed buildings and mast on the site would reduce the market value.

After raising more than 100m from the previous sale of the northern end of the campus to a housing developer, the value of the remaining landbank is put at anything up to 500m. Moving to a greenfield site on the outskirts of Dublin or outside the capital completely and building new studios and officie would come with a big cost too.

RTE staff fear for their future after its new director general strongly indicated that voluntary redundancies lay ahead just hours after announcing an immediate hiring freeze. There is huge uncertainty at the Montrose campus about the potential impact on workers of a financial crisis sparked by pay revelations relating to its former highest-paid star Ryan Tubridy.

Staff are angry that they were not consulted ahead of Mr Bakhursts announcement yesterday of a blanket hiring ban.

Unions warned a total recruitment freeze would have a detrimental impact on workers and their ability to provide quality programmes and content.

Although Mr Bakhurst said the last thing he wanted was to impose compulsory job losses, this is likely to provide cold comfort to workers given the lack of clarity around RTEs future funding.

Mr Bakhurst said everything was on the table when asked about his cost-cutting plans and revealed a voluntary exit scheme may have to be considered. He said he could not give assurances in relation to redundancies.

I will do everything humanly possible that we dont get to a position where we have compulsory redundancies, he said.

Mr Bakhurst said presenters salaries needed to be brought down and contracts would be evaluated with reference to audience figures. The recruitment freeze will be felt across the board and the director general confirmed exemptions will be considered only in exceptional circumstances.

Im afraid they are sharing some of the pain, the director general said, referring to staff. Because were all taking pain at the moment because of the financial challenge facing us.

The RTE Trade Union Group said it was not acceptable that it had no prior knowledge of the recruitment freeze announced by Mr Bakhurst.

We were given assurances by the director general that he would engage with staff and trade unions in relation to efforts to rebuild trust with the public, it said in a statement.

We expect to be advised of and consulted on decisions which significantly impact our members.

NUJ official Dublin broadcasting branch Emma OKelly, RTEs education correspondent, said staff were really concerned and very worried.

She said staff in the newsroom already struggled to cover stories and take leave.
Peter Sheridan: We may never forget the past, but I hope we will be able to focus on building an inspiring future together for Northern Ireland

Peter Sheridan to become commissioner for investigations on new legacy body

Former senior PSNI officer Peter Sheridan has been appointed as commissioner for investigations for the new Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR).

Mr Sheridan, who will start work in December, said he understood the need for people to be given information and closure.

His appointment comes just days after the controversial Legacy Bill was passed at Westminster.

In May Sir Declan Morgan was announced as chief commissioner for the ICRIR.

Mr Morgan was tasked with leading the process to recruit a number of commissioners to head up the body, and the jobs were advertised shortly afterwards.

Paying almost 150,000 a year, the first commissioner for investigations attracted applications from across the UK and Ireland.

The deadline was extended until June 1 to allow a panel of experts to be formed to carry out interviews.

The job advertisement called for the applicant to have a background in investigative work, putting the needs of those who request reviews at the heart of any process.

They will be able to draw on existing criminal or other complex investigatory processes, as well as developing new ones which focus on information recovery for victims, survivors and families.

Sources say Mr Sheridan, current CEO of Co-operation Ireland, was the outstanding candidate, with his background not just in policing, but his more recent work with marginalised communities.

A former assistant chief constable, Mr Sheridan was the highest ranking Catholic to serve with the PSNI when he retired in 2008 after 32 years service with it and the RUC.

His appointment to the new role was confirmed this morning, shortly after the news was broken.

Mr Sheridan said: Ive spent the last 15 years working for an organisation that is dedicated to bringing peace and reconciliation to Northern Ireland  and before this, a substantial period of my career working to deliver law and order in our community.

"I am absolutely committed to carrying out this role without fear or favour and I fully expect everyone to hold me accountable to do this.

There is nothing I want more than to see people given the information and closure they need, using the full range of powers and tools that the Commission will be able to bring to this work, so that we can all move forward together.

"We may never forget the past, but I hope we will be able to focus on building an inspiring future together for Northern Ireland, for the sake of future generations.

Mr Sheridan is expected to start work in December, once prior commitments are completed.

He will be supporting Mr Morgan engaging with key groups to ensure input from as wide a range of views as possible, as the Commission establishes its policies and procedures ahead of opening for requests from next summer.

Mr Morgan said: Im delighted that this significant milestone has been reached in our work to establish the Commission.

"Peter brings a unique combination of professional investigative experience, a thorough appreciation of our context and an unrivalled track record of reaching across all aspect as of our community.

Mr Sheridan had been responsible for the Crime Operations Department, which investigated serious and organised crime and terrorism.

He was also heavily involved in sensitive negotiations around parades with the Apprentice Boys and nationalists in Derry.

Those talks resulted in an accommodation that facilitated a series of peaceful parades in Derry city centre for the first time in decades.

As CEO of Co-operation Ireland he played a significant role in facilitating the historic handshake between Martin McGuinness and Queen Elizabeth II. The charity strives to promote better relations between people on the island.

In June, Mr Sheridan was awarded a CBE for peacebuilding in the Kings Birthday Honours.

Despite his cross-community credentials, his appointment is still likely to attract criticism from victims organisations.

The controversial legislation, which provides a conditional amnesty for information received from those who committed Troubles-related crimes, has been universally condemned by victims, human rights groups and the US and Irish governments.

It will bring an end to not just criminal investigations, but also inquests, civil cases and Police Ombudsman probes.

After criticism that there had been insufficient consultation with victims, Lord Caine was tasked with overseeing its progress and a number of amendments were proposed, but only some passed the scrutiny of MPs.

In a recent interview, Mr Morgan said he would encourage legal challenges to the legislation to be lodged promptly with the High Court.
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris says vote of no confidence in him is "like a kick in the teeth"

Frontline garda representatives will meet with the commissioner and Justice Minister Helen McEntee next week following an overwhelming vote of no confidence in the countrys garda chief.

It comes amid growing discontent within the force primarily over a decision to press ahead with the return to a pre-pandemic roster, while criticism has also been levelled at the minister over what has been described as her failure to engage with the Garda Representative Association (GRA).

Members of the GRA were balloted on whether they had confidence or not in Commissioner Drew Harris.

The unprecedented vote saw just over 9,000 gardai, or 98.7pc of members who voted, expressed no confidence in Mr Harris, while 116 said they had confidence in him.

Despite the landslide vote, which he described as a kick in the teeth, the commissioner has insisted he will not resign.

The Irish Independent understands that the GRA were yesterday (thurs) contacted by the offices of the Department of Justice and the garda commissioner.

Minister McEntee has sought to meet with members of the GRA next Wednesday while Mr Harris will hold discussions with the four policing representative bodies the following day.

The GRAs central executive committee has also agreed to convene at a special meeting on Monday, September 25, in advance of a special delegates conference later that week.

Commissioner Harris, speaking in Cork, as he opened a refurbished garda station with Ms McEntee, said that the GRA no confidence vote was a blow.

He insisted his priority was to achieve the maximum level of effective and visible policing.

Commissioner Harris urged the GRA to now pursue settlement talks with him over the roster impasse.

"I recognise that they are not happy. I am very familiar with all the issues that they have raised. A huge amount of work has been undertaken and is ongoing in respect of the issues that they have raised.

"But I would say to them and to the others associations that we are always open to conversation and negotiation. We want to get to a new roster and we also want to resolve the other issues."

Justice Minister Helen McEntee said she fully supported Commissioner Harris. Mr Varadkar, speaking in Limerick, also insisted the Government retained full confidence in Commissioner Harris.

After the results of the ballot were announced, GRA General Secretary Ronan Slevin said: "This result proves that the commissioner has lost the confidence of an overwhelming majority of the garda force. Government now needs to urgently intervene and make changes to help improve overall employee wellbeing and morale, and provide the public with the policing service that they deserve."

The decision to ballot members came amid growing anger among rank-and-file gardai over the ongoing recruitment and retention crisis, morale, training, the current suspensions policy and the welfare of members.

The situation was exacerbated by the commissioner's decision to press ahead with plans to return to a pre-pandemic working hours, which will see core garda units return to working six days in a row on 10-hour shifts while adding a fifth unit to the roster.

The GRA say this will impact on its member's work-life balance and result in less gardai on the street.

Assistant General Secretary, Tara McManus, also said that they expect to see a "huge amount of members resigning" prior to this being introduced.

GRA President, Brendan O'Connor, said the association was "shocked at the overwhelming result. The GRA said the minister and the Government should reflect on the result, which will be discussed at the special delegate conference in two weeks.

In a statement the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) said the matter of no confidence was something it had not discussed "as it simply has not been an issue for the association.

While Mr Harris has said that the representative groups had all previously agreed to this roster, the GRA says this was on the basis that there were sufficient numbers to fill the five units, with current staffing levels now allowing for this.
The Government should increase its childcare subsidies in the Budget to cut family costs to just 50 per week, Labour leader Ivana Bacik has said.

Speaking at her partys pre-Dail return think-in, Ms Bacik acknowledged that the Government is making progress in cutting childcare costs. But she insisted that they must do more.

The Labour leader said they were told last year the estimated cost to the taxpayer of this measure would amount to an extra 275m.

We are awaiting an estimate for this year from the department. But we believe it is well within our capabilities, Ms Bacik told reporters.

The Labour Partys seven TDs, four senators, and many councillors gathered in Maynooth to prepare for a new parliamentary term.

They were joined by many of their 56 councillors and candidates due to stand in local elections next June.

The focus of the two-day meeting is preparing for local and European elections in 2024 with several council candidates also in attendance.

In a hard-hitting speech to the gathering, Ms Bacik said Labour has deep roots and is now showing green shoots predicting a good outcome for the party in these upcoming elections.

The Labour leader said the current three-party coalition lacked ambition and was failing to deliver for the country.

Along with capping childcare at 200 per month per family, there was a need for far more urgency on housing delivery, pointing out that 12,847 people were now homeless.

Back in March, when I proposed building 1 million homes by the end of the decade many ministers scoffed. Why should they do that? she said.

Ms Bacik said the Government needs to increase investment in public services providing cradle to grave service for citizens.

She said tax cuts in the October 10 Budget should favour the lower-paid.

The Labour leader said the party would put in considerable effort to win back a seat in the European Parliament, which would give Ireland a much-needed voice in the assemblys second largest group, the European Socialists.

Ms Bacik also warned that her party would continue to strongly oppose hard-right extremists, so prevalent in European politics, and also showing signs of emerging in Ireland.

The Labour leader said the best way to oppose the hard right was to continue to speak out and explain issues to citizens.

She said the party is still assessing the impact of the new constituency boundaries outlined a fortnight ago but she expected all the outgoing TDs to stand in the next general election and she predicted the party will make gains.
Coming out as a lesbian to my children was hands down the most difficult thing I have ever had to do
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said the Government will not put pressure on RTE to sell its Montrose campus in Dublin.

Mr Varadkar said any plan to sell off large chunks of Montrose should be considered plans and not knee jerk reactions to the payments scandal.

Speaking in Co Limerick today, he added that the Government will be engaging with RTE about additional funding for this year and future years.

No, we're not going to make any demands of that nature. What we want to hear from the DG and the board is what their plans are to improve the financial position of RTE as a company but also a vision for a successful RTE into the future, which is just as important because it is our public service broadcaster, we want it to be successful into the future, he said.

I think the DG has made some very tough decisions in recent days around the recruitment freeze and cutting back on some of the allowances.

In relation to the site, some of the site has already been sold, as people will know. But I think for anymore of the sites (to be) sold, it needs to be worked out.

It might make sense to sell part of it, it might make sense to sell all of it. But, of course, if RTE is relocated, there'll be costs associated with that too.

So, it's important that things are done that make sense and add up and are not done just for demonstration effect.

'All options are on the table' - Kevin Bakhurst confirms Montrose land sale option

During the RTE Committee meeting at the Houses of Oireachtas yesterday, Brendan Griffin TD said hed rather spend his TV licence fee in the pub.

Mr Varadkar said Mr Griffin was, in his view, only expressing the frustration of the public over the scandal, and he encouraged everyone to keep paying their TV licence.

"What I'm saying to people, I'm asking them to continue to pay their TV licence, not because its the law but because it does fund broadcasting in Ireland, he said.

"And not just RTE - it funds private broadcasters as well, content creators, children's programming, Irish language programming, and important news programming from all the regions in Ireland too, and that's why I'm paying (the licence fee) and that's what I encourage other people to do so.

This comes as Tanaiste Micheal Martin criticised RTEs handling of the Ryan Tubridy payments scandal and cast doubt over whether the station should sell any of its Donnybrook site.

Mr Martin criticised the lack of authority in RTE as he declined to be drawn on whether Ryan Tubridy should repay 150,000 to RTE after director general Kevin Bakhurst said on Wednesday there was a moral case for the former Late Late Show to do so.

I am not going to get into the personalities anymore on this. I'm not entirely comfortable with how all of that has been dealt with by RTE, Mr Martin said in Dublin today.

I think the Grant Thornton report laid it out. I think there's a more fundamental issue apart from personalities all together, which is about the governance of RTE, the lack of authority from RTE in response to all of the issues that arose during the summer, and the lack of coherence.

I think the more fundamental point in society is that we have proper public service content, that we have proper public service media  and in my view, the more essential question is not about personalities, its about how we develop a robust, resilient, fair and balanced public media provision in the country.

That means a national broadcaster, but it also means that in line with the Media Commission's report, that local radio, all media platforms  print media, digital  that contribute to public service content should get funding in respect of that public service content.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin (Niall Carson/PA)

He expressed confidence in the board of RTE, arguing it was a saga that people are getting tired of and that the station now needs to produce a plan to reform. However, he cast doubt on whether it would be cost-effective for the station to sell off all or part of its Dublin 4 base to help resolve its financial crisis.

You can say sell land, that doesnt create sustainability. These are a once-off, it creates once-off capital revenue. It doesn't deal with long term sustainability. Ive been in government a long time, you know, very often selling land is something you will regret later. But that may not be the case here, he said.

He said the issue needed proper detailed consideration, not soundbites including a detailed financial plan from RTE. He said while this could mean relocating you try and relocate in Dublin today and that will create its own costs as well.

He said that people should pay the licence fee, arguing the lack of a well-resourced media would lead to the proliferation of platforms that are narrow focused and very polarised.

Mr Martin was speaking ahead of a Brexit stakeholders forum at the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin. He reiterated his call for the parties in Northern Ireland to restore the Executive and Assembly.

He said the results of the Assembly election should be validated with the election of a Sinn Fein First Minister. The DUP should take their seats, he said. The problem in the North is weve had too much of a stop-start with the Assembly.
The suspected drugs will now be sent to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) for analysis

Gardai have arrested a man (30s) and seized approximately 75,000 of suspected cocaine during searches in Co. Wicklow on Thursday.

Gardai attached to the Bray Drugs Unit, along with Wicklow detective and uniform members, conducted a search at a property in the Rathnew area this morning.

Over the course of this search, cocaine was seized, along with two replica firearms, and drugs paraphernalia.

The suspected drugs will now be sent to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) for analysis.

A statement from gardai said: One male (30s) was arrested in connection with this seizure. He has since been charged and appeared earlier this afternoon before Bray District Court, where he was remanded in custody.

Investigations are ongoing.
The National Union of Journalists has described comments made by Sean Quinns solicitor about Sunday Independent journalist Maeve Sheehan as simply unacceptable.

Mr Quinn's solicitor, Chris McGettigan, launched a fresh attack on Ms Sheehan at the launch of his client's new book last night.

Mr McGettigan said Mr Quinn had been subjected to "one-sided vilification" and that the focus had been distracted from his client's book, which is titled In My Own Words.

"It may be a coincidence, but only a couple of weeks ago I heard Pope Francis praying for journalists, believe it or not. Disinformation and coprophilia and the love of scandals are big sins of journalism," Mr McGettigan said.

Bankrupt billionaire Sean Quinn speaks about his financial downfall

Now we have a lot of great journalists and I hope they will take proper consideration to both sides of the story rather than the ongoing one-sided vilification of Sean Quinn."

Mr McGettigans comments were met by roaring approval from the crowd of at least 1,000 who turned out for the launch.

"Somehow, a journalist Maeve has tried to make this book about herself, said Mr McGettigan.

"But all I will say is don't take yourself too seriously, mate, because nobody else does."

Responding to Mr McGettigans comments, Seamus Dooley, Irish secretary at the National Union of Journalists (NUJ), said the solicitor should stick to the law.

For a solicitor to make this kind of attack is simply unacceptable, said Mr Dooley.

Sean Quinn signing books at the launch of his memoir in the Slieve Russell hotel

He invokes Pope Francis but my advice to Mr McGettigan is to stick to the law. Maeve Sheehan is a journalist with a proven track record. I fully accept that much of her journalism may be inconvenient from the point of view of Mr McGettigans client but Maeve Sheehan and the Sunday Independent do not exist for the purpose of providing support to Sean Quinn.

Mr Dooley said that the Quinn story was an important one and that journalism had a role in bringing it to public attention.

Maeve Sheehans function has been to explore a story which is clearly of public intertest, he said.

If Mr McGettigan feels that he wishes to respond on behalf of his client, the appropriate forum would be a complaint to the Press Council of Ireland rather than to a fanclub at a hotel in Cavan.

The fresh attack on Ms Sheehan comes following her explosive interview last weekend with Mr Quinn  for which he later apologised and said: I lost my rag.

During the interview, Mr Quinn told the Sunday Independent journalist that she was just talking s**t and told her his family enquired as to, What in the name of God are you letting that bitch into this house for?

Mr Quinn told Sheehan she had written lies about him in the past and that she should not have been in his home to conduct the interview, which was set up by the books publisher after they offered the first interview with Mr Quinn on the book to the newspaper.

Mr Quinn later told the Fermanagh Herald: I lost my rag and I apologise for it. I suppose Im short of patience when I know that somebodys asking me questions to try and irritate me and to try and find fault. I became irritated, but I was wrong. I should have had better wit.
Students from Trinity College Dublin today blocked access to the Book of Kells in order to protest against the rise in the cost of on-campus accommodation.

Amidst the current housing crisis, Trinity college has decided to raise the price of on-campus accommodation by 2pc, the maximum amount permitted under Rent Pressure Zone legislation.

This led to a number of students blocking the entrance to the Long Room to protest against the increase and the current cost of rent, as they held up placards with students not cash cows and freeze rent written on them.

TCD Student Union President Laszlo Molnarfi (22) said: We are doing a protest because we were forced to do this protest, all other avenues have failed. Our college has decided to increase rent by 2pc. This happens year on year and it's making accommodation unaffordable.

It's pricing students out of education. They [the college] look at us like cash cows, they look at us like statistics, like numbers, rather than as human beings.

Mr Molnarfi said that since 2015, rents have increased by 25pc while 93pc of students find on-campus accommodation unaffordable as some options cost as much as 12,000 per year.

For students who cannot afford this, college becomes monotonous. You wake up, you commute for three hours, and you have to catch the last train back home, he said.

One of the SU presidents hopes for students is a rent freeze for two years.

We need to stand up and we need to fight back, together with the power of the collective, we can change the system, he said.

Mr Molnarfi added there has been an increase in students who are couch surfing, deferring their studies or dropping out of academia altogether.

After three years, Susan Tyson ODoherty (21) dropped out of college on Monday, however, she participated in the protest in solidarity with her friends.

I was a student here up until the beginning of this week, I dropped out for a variety of personal reasons, but a lot of it had to be the way that I felt unsupported by college, the way that I saw that it treated myself and other students, she said.

Studnets protesting at The Book of Kells in Trinity College, Dublin. Picture: Mark Condren

I know students that are commuting from Galway, I have a friend who's in lectures right now who commuted from Northern Ireland to be here today for her class, and she's commuting back up this evening because there's no accommodation here and what accommodation there is, is overpriced and impossible to get.

I myself was commuting from Bray. I felt just alienated from college and societies because I had so much time to make up to get home, to get here that I just felt like I couldn't engage properly with student life.

Ms ODoherty said she looks forward to starting an accounting technician apprenticeship next week.

Living off-campus in Dublin and still having to commute an hour to Dublin is fourth-year student, Jenny Maguire (21), she said: Often it's the most vulnerable students that are still forced all four years of their college to have to search in digs, and just to find a place to actually get an education.

She added: So much of education isn't just getting your spot. It's making sure you have mental health services, making sure you have housing, making sure you have access to food, so many students have to decide between those things just to get their education.

Students gather at Printing House Square in Trinity before delivering submissions on the rental sector to Government last month (Photo: Norma Burke)

Second year PhD student Mariana Silva (24), who is part of the Postgraduate Workers Organisation, said she attended the protest to provide solidarity for anybody who is part of the Trinity community while also supporting her fellow post graduates.

There aren't as many post grads who live on campus, but there are some who do and we want to make sure that every one of them is considered for affordable accommodation and we're not just leaving people out, she said.

A lot of the discourse on the housing crisis in Dublin is being a student here is just unsustainable.

Meanwhile, the college is now refunding tourists who had booked tickets to visit the attraction today due to the blockade.

In a statement on social media, Trinity College Dublin said: The Old Library of Trinity College Dublin and @BookOfKellsTCD are currently not accessible to the public. We will provide further updates as needed. All customers with prebooked tickets will be refunded in full.

TCD SU blocked the colleges most popular tourist attraction until 5pm on Wednesday afternoon.
The top civil servant in the Department of Housing is to get a 15,000 pay increase and thousands of euro more in back pay for the last three years following a long-running dispute with the Government.

Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe told Cabinet colleagues yesterday that he is implementing an independent review panels recommendations to increase the pay of the secretaries general in the Departments of Housing and Children.

It means Department of Housing secretary general Graham Doyle, who has been embroiled in a long-running dispute over his salary, will see his pay rise from 240,000 to 255,000 a year, while Department of Children secretary general Kevin McCarthys salary increases from 227,369 to 240,000 a year.

Mr Donohoe said the changes would be effective from the date of their appointments, meaning both senior civil servants will receive back pay likely to amount to thousands of euro  despite this not being part of the panels recommendations.

The Sunday Independent revealed last January that Mr Doyle had raised the possibility of legal action in discussions as part of a long-running HR dispute with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER).

The fraught internal battle involved several senior figures including the countrys most senior civil servant Martin Fraser, who is now Irelands ambassador to the UK, along with attorney general Rossa Fanning and officials in Mr Donohoes department.

The independent review panel chaired by Dr Donal de Buitleir did not refer to backdating the changes in salary grades to the dates that the two secretaries general were appointed.

Today's News in 90 seconds - September 14th

Mr Doyle was appointed to the Custom House from the Department of Transport in July 2020, whilst Mr McCarthy was appointed to the Department of Children from the Department of Rural Development in January 2022.

A spokesperson for Mr Donohoe said: While not a recommendation in the report, the analysis set out in the report highlights the degree to which the expansion of scope and functions of these posts has taken place in recent years. As such, it is appropriate that this would be reflected in the implementation of the reports recommendations.

Mr Donohoes department was not able to say how much in backdated pay both senior officials are now entitled to as a result of the ministers decision as it would depend on their personal circumstances, any unpaid leave or other working arrangements that may apply.

The review recommended that the Department of Housing secretary general post move from grade 2 to grade 1 on the salary scale, bringing it line with the salaries paid to top civil servants in the Departments of Taoiseach, Finance and Public Expenditure.

It said the Department of Children secretary general post should move from grade 3 to grade 2.

It is clear that the responsibilities of the two posts in question are significantly increased than when the present grades were determined and, on the basis of this interim assessment, also relative to other such posts, the 30-page report states.

It was revealed last January that Mr Doyle had contended that when he transferred to Housing in July 2020 it had been agreed with Mr Fraser, the Department of the Taoiseach secretary general, that the role would be recategorised to the top salary grade.

But this was was disputed by DPER, which is responsible for pay and conditions in the public sector, which argued that no agreement had been made.

Mr Fanning, the attorney general, is understood to have been asked by the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to try to resolve the matter.

Mr Doyle was asked about the issue at a Public Accounts Committee hearing last June where he insisted that it was not an issue of seeking a pay increase but declined to go into detail.

This is an issue about the grade of a position. Again, it was not something I actually sought.

" I really cannot get drawn into the detail of an individual HR matter, he told Fianna Fail TD James OConnor.

The Department of Housing said it doesnt comment on details of individual staff.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. Germany supports Armenia in various sectors, including in the democratic reforms and the political arena, the Charge d'affaires at the Embassy of Germany in Armenia Erik Tintrup said on September 14.

Tintrup made the remarks during an event in the Armenian parliament where a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Parliamentary Committee on Economic Affairs and Berlin Economics.

Germany supports Armenia, supports Armenian democracy, Germany supports Armenias democratic reforms, including economic reforms. Our support starts in the political arena, this is support to the peace process, as much as we can. Our support also includes humanitarian aid, which is very important. Two days ago we provided an additional two million euros to the International Committee of the Red Cross for its work in the region and Nagorno-Karabakh. Our support is also in economic cooperation," he added.

Tintrup said that two weeks ago Germany and Armenia signed a financial cooperation agreement which envisages the provision of up to 12 million euros in financial support for a renewable energy project.

The cooperation that we see today is highly important for us, he said.

Berlin Economics has been cooperating with the Armenian government for a long time and the new agreement with the Armenian parliament committee envisages analytical and consultative services by Berlin Economics.

During the event, Berlin Economics also presented its studies on the economic impact that the reopening of the Armenia-Turkiye land border would have.
The Debra Ireland support group is seeking 810,000 to help sufferers

A young Laois woman who suffers from an agonising condition known as butterfly skin has spoken of how it has left her screaming in pain.

Emma Fogarty is one of 300 people with the incurable condition epidermolysis bullosa (EB) and is a fronting a campaign by support charity Debra Ireland to secure 810,000 in the Budget.

The condition is caused by the absence of proteins which bind the skin together, leading to excruciating blistering at the slightest touch and, in severe cases, requiring bandaging every day.

Up to the age of 28 my mom was doing my dressings. Thats not OK. Thats not good enough, Ms Fogarty said.

There were days when I was screaming in pain, and she felt she was causing it. She wasnt causing the pain. EB was.

A stroke of a finger can lead to deep cuts, bleeds and blisters that can take months to heal.

Dubliner Aoife Murdock (42), who has EB simplex, said she can feel wrecked when she has a skin flare-up.

Its really, really draining on your system as a whole. It just makes everything so much harder. Its an unseen illness, she said.

Actor Colin Farrell is among those championing the charitys cause.

Debra Ireland chief executive Jimmy Fearon has appealed for funds for the charity in next months Budget.

He said the sum the charity was looking for, 810,000, would be equivalent to the cost of two coffees a day for each of the 300 people living in Ireland with EB.

Last year the charity asked for 941,000 but was unsuccessful in getting funding.

Everyone associated with Debra, those impacted by EB, their families and carers and ambassadors such as Colin Farrell, was bitterly disappointed when we were left out of last years Budget, Mr Fearon said.

Were now asking for less and hope the Government doesnt ignore the needs of our service users for a second year in a row.

The charitys head of advocacy Joanna Joyce said its small ask, big impact pre-Budget submission has four aims.

It needs a care co-ordinator within the HSE, costing 75,000; a clinical psychologist to support adults with EB at around 80,000; a ring-fenced fund of 580,000 to provide nursing care in the home for those living with the most severe form of the disease; and a community nurse for adult patients, costing 75,000.

She said: All we require is a tiny fraction of the current 23bn health budget. The 810,000 ask is 0.003pc of that total.

In many cases, EB is an invisible condition which has a hugely negative impact on peoples lives, yet those living with it struggle to access vital services.

The charity is also asking supporters to retweet and tag Health Minister Stephen Donnelly on social media so the charity can get a meeting with him to highlight the urgency of the Budget delivering funding this time.

To date more than 1,800 people have sent digital messages to Mr Donnelly. Written messages from more than 100 Debra supporters have been collated into a book, which will be given to him.
Brighton Road restaurant review: Locals already flocking to a reimagined take on neighbourhood gem Bistro One, and with good reason

Our food critic samples prawn cocktail, scallops, black sole and more in Dublins Foxrock

Brighton Road 'follows the seasons, using the best of whats available from day to day', says chef Alan Wang. Picture: Mark Condren

Katy McGuinness Thu 14 Sep 2023 at 03:30

Thursday evening in affluent Foxrock. Autumn is in the air, the schools are back, the CAO offers are in, and Range Rovers purr through the leafy streets at dusk like suburban combat vehicles on patrol. Behind electric gates, the rosy interiors of houses that look as if they have been transplanted from the Home Counties glow through the foliage. All is quiet.
Celtic, culture and exquisite cuisine in lively Lisbon

Portugals capital is more than a flop-and-drop break, with history, fabulous food and fun in abundance

The historic Rua Augusta Arch in the heart of Lisbon. Photo: William Fawcett

Joe Coyle Thu 14 Sep 2023 at 03:30

Were standing in the bowels of Estadio Nacional in Alges, on the outskirts of Lisbon, when the emotions  all of them  start to flow freely. Ive finally made a personal pilgrimage to the venue of Celtics most famous victory, where, on May 25, 1967, 11 men from Glasgow won the European Cup.
Donald Trump said Vladimir Putin was a great guy and a terrific person after they met at the G20 in 2019. Photo: Anadolu

The Biden administration has committed an impressive amount of aid to Ukraine in the 18 months since Russias full-scale invasion  roughly $75bn, not counting the administrations recent request for an additional $2bn.

That sum is fast approaching more than half of all US assistance to Israel since its founding in 1948. But Europe has collectively committed even more to help Ukrainians survive, fight and stave off financial collapse.
Queen have become the latest act to be dragged into the culture wars as it has emerged that their song, Fat Bottomed Girls, will be omitted from the version of their Greatest Hits on Yoto, a childrens audio platform.

Many were quick to cry woke, but in reality, the band arent the victims of a kneejerk cancellation. They agreed to the song being omitted and the reason is that Fat Bottomed Girls is not appropriate for children, according to Yoto.
Taking a country at war into the European Union might once have seemed an impossibility.

But the prospect of embattled Ukraine, fighting off Russian invaders, being given full EU membership is looking increasing possible.

Four months after the full-scale invasion in February last year, EU leaders gave Ukraine and Moldova member candidate status  an unusually rapid decision, changing the blocs traditional go-slow approach to expansion.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen yesterday delivered her State of the Union address to MEPs, who are gearing up for EU-wide elections next June. She set a definitive course to take in new members  a move that will pose challenges to Ireland and other smaller member states.

It is hard at times to agree important co-operation initiatives, with the slowest-moving states dictating the pace. Extending member numbers will compound this. Acknowledging this, Mrs von der Leyen yesterday unveiled a major series of policy reviews to ensure an enlarged EU can still function properly.

Countries in the western Balkans, along with Ukraine and Moldova, are among those in line to join in a few short years.

What happened with the last intake in 2005 is cautionary.

Hungary and Poland, notably, have come under fire from Brussels for diluting democracy, and both countries often oppose foreign policy and migration decisions. The experience has militated against opening doors to others with weak democratic structures and faltering market economies.

But there are concerns about Russias growing influence in the western Balkans, particularly in Serbia and Bosnia. Some countries in the region have waited for years to join the EU, and their frustration is growing.

Mrs von der Leyen, who is expected to seek a second five-year mandate as EC president beginning in November 2024, has now laid it on the line.

In a world where size and weight matters, it is clearly in Europes strategic interest [to expand], she stressed. She said her officials will examine how each policy sector in areas such as the economy, energy, agriculture or migration would need to be adapted.

European Council president Charles Michel, who chairs EU leaders summits, this week said new countries should be welcomed in by 2030. On Monday, the presidents of Serbia, Kosovo, Bosnia, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Albania also said that enlargement should happen not later than 2030.

But membership applications are time-consuming and Mrs von der Leyen insisted that accession is merit-based. She signalled that arbitrary deadlines will not work.

This country has explicitly backed the recruitment of new member states, and governments of whatever political stripe must persist with this stance.

At the close of an EU leaders summit in June, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar reiterated this view  but also wisely acknowledged that there would be downsides for Ireland as the bloc goes from the current 27 member states to more than 30.
Ellen Coyne: Character references for rapists like the ones written by Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher need to be banned

Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis apologise for writing letters in support of Danny Masterson

Ellen Coyne Thu 14 Sep 2023 at 03:30

Two actors sat down to star in an act of contrition. Hollywood A-listers and celebrity couple Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis had been rightly derided by the internet for each penning a gushing character reference for their former co-star and convicted rapist Danny Masterson.
As Fianna Fail and Fine Gael continue to demonstrate their cravenness and cruelty, letting Sinn Fein stand on the verge of government in Ireland, it seems important to point out that Sinn Fein are getting away with two major lies about Irish history.

The first is that somehow the Provos were the good guys. In fact, during the Troubles, the IRA murdered three times as many civilians as the British Army, and more than the UVF and UFF combined. Not fewer than the UVF (including, lets not forget, the Shankill Butchers), but more. More than the UVF  a benchmark of brutality and horror. Not fewer than the British Army (Bloody Sunday and Ballymurphy included), but more.

The second lie is that Fianna Fail and Fine Gael are somehow inheritors of the same violence and horror. Now its certainly true that FF and FG are useless at what they do (or worse). But they are not the inheritors of the same sort of violence and horror as Sinn Fein. Horror that the party still claims was justified.

Sinn Fein is allied with a level of brutality and murder that had never been seen before and which has educated many terrorist groups since, including the likes of Islamic State and the Taliban.

Despite Sinn Feins constant claims otherwise, this pattern was not the case in the Easter Rising or the War of Independence. Except from the British Army, who were almost entirely the ones killing civilians. Lets remember that a major reason the men of 1916 surrendered was to save more civilians from being killed  civilians who were almost entirely killed by British soldiers.

Again in the War of Independence, it was mainly the various British forces that engaged in terror to the extent that there was disgust even in Westminster.

British forces burned down entire cities and towns and killed all around them. The IRA of the time murdered civilians on some shameful occasions (although very rarely) and these acts were called out as shameful at the time. There were no bombs in pubs or murder of children.

So lets not fool ourselves. Sinn Fein are both the actual allies of actual murderers and lying about Irish history.

It is one thing to call for change. Its another to call for change for the better. As someone allied with no Irish political party, I know the difference between bad (the traditional parties) and worse (Sinn Fein).

If were going to have Sinn Fein in government, at least lets not close our eyes to the realities.

Hugh Sheehy, Elmpark Green, Dublin 4

Micheal Martin should be careful about calling out potential FF partners

Tanaiste Micheal Martins berating of Sinn Fein at Fianna Fails love in in Tipperary, where he said they are anti- enterprise, anti-entrepreneurial and anti-European (Irish Independent, September 13), reminds me of that advert from the 1980s  you cant sing, you cant play, you look awful ... youll go a long way.

Perhaps, Mr Martin should focus now on what young people want as he believes Sinn Fein are infecting them. His comments come following Bertie Aherns ill-timed words that young people should educate themselves to understand our difficult history.

It will be interesting to see when push comes to shove if Fianna Fail will end up singing a duet with Sinn Fein. Now that would be awful!

Aidan Roddy, Cabinteely, Dublin 18

Its time to ditch school uniforms, or at least make them optional for students

As a post-primary teacher, I see too often how school uniforms are used as a tool of control to assert a base authority, forcing children to conform, thus generating fear, anxiety and anger.

To implement the uniform regime requires teachers to be dress police. This contradicts our duty to build a supportive atmosphere of wellbeing. Some teachers are cowed into submission and collude out of fear of management and to avoid rocking the boat.

Other teachers take to it with relish, and in the process students are humiliated, shamed, excluded from activities, detained, and sometimes mocked because they are in breach of some element of the uniformity code. Any argument that uniforms protect children from being shamed is laughable in this context.

Forcing children to wear uniforms has unsettling echoes of a fascist past in Europe. In France it was Marine Le Pens far-right National Rally which earlier this year proposed the introduction of uniforms in schools. Thankfully it was rejected.

I realise that many students and parents think they could not cope without a uniform. Some of my 18-year-old students say they would be daunted by the thought of getting dressed in their own clothes for school. How much of an indictment is that of how poorly our system prepares them for the real world?

Its time to ditch the uniform and join the 21st century. But if that is a step too far, why not make uniforms optional? Let those who want to, wear them  but dont force them on everybody.

Gearoid O Riain, Westport, Co Mayo

We must do all we can to help victims of disasters in Morocco and Libya

I am deeply saddened by the heartwrenching scenes of death and destruction wrought by the devastating earthquake in Morocco and flooding in Libya.

Thousands of hospitals, clinics, healthcare facilities and schools have been reduced to rubble. Other people will endure unparalleled trauma of loss, grief and mental health ailments.

They need food, shelter, blankets, medicines, medical equipment, water, psychological care and clinics urgently. Governments must leave no stone unturned to help people cope with this humanitarian crisis unfolding before our eyes.

Dr Munjed Farid Al Qutob, London

Count Curly Wee will be sadly missed and deserves proper future recognition

Alas, Count Curly Wee...I knew him well (not to mention Gussie Goose and numerous other inhabitants of Fur and Feather land).

What an ignominious end to the noble pigs glittering career. Cut off in mid-adventure, without even a goodbye. Youd expect after over 50 years of loyal service (Ive read the Irish Independent regularly from the early 1970s and he was a veteran even then) to be treated with a little more decorum and respect. The least he deserved was some recognition of the splendid service he gave.

He will be sadly missed. I hope that maybe a history of the strip and its creators will appear in your pages soon as some kind of tribute.

Jim Dalton, Perrystown, Dublin 12
Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un shake hands during their meeting at the Vostochny cosmodrome outside the city of Tsiolkovsky, about 200 kilometers (125 miles) from the city of Blagoveshchensk in the far eastern Amur region, Russia, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. (Vladimir Smirnov, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

In a scene which sounds like its stolen from a movie, North Koreas Kim Jong-Un arrived in Russia aboard his moving fortress train to meet President Vladimir Putin. Boasting Barbie pink couches and a karaoke booth atop steel plated floors, the bespoke transport choice offered the perfect metaphor for this unlikely new friendship.

On one hand, Putins meeting with the North Korean leader had the hallmarks of PR posturing rather than diplomatic deal-making. On the other hand, an alliance between the two nuclear powers could change the tone of international relations going forward.

Kevin Doyle is joined on the Indo Daily Podcast by freelance journalist and Russia analyst, Jason Corcoran to assess a most unusual friendship.
The patron saint of Cork city, St. Finbar or St Fin Barre, died in 623 AD and a series of events to mark the 1400th anniversary of his passing is to get underway in the Church of Ireland cathedral bearing his name in Cork City on Culture Night, September 22.

St Fin Barre is well remembered in the city where he was the founder of a Christian community. One of Corks leading GAA clubs carries his name and the motto at the gate of University College Cork reads; Where Fin Barre taught, let Munster learn.

The events to commemorate his death get underway on Culture night and include the presentation of wildlife kits to pupils of three local primary schools early in the day with a celebration of Evensong at 6.15pm. There will be an opportunity to take guided tours of the historic building also on Culture Night.

Other events that weekend include an organ recital by the internationally renowned Franco-Lebanese organist, Naji Hakim which will also coincide and mark the 10th anniversary of the restoration of the Cathedral Organ.

People named Finbarr or Fionnbarra or Fin Barre will be also invited to visit the cathedral where they will receive a special gift to mark their link to the saint. A specially commissioned icon of St. Fin Barre, crafted by international iconographer Aidan Hart of London. will be consecrated by Bishop Paul Colton during Evensong on Sunday. Afterwards the Dean of Cork, the Reverend Nigel Dunne, will re-launch the Friends of Saint Fin Barres Cathedral.

On Monday, September 25, the saints feast day,, St Fin Barres will host the ordination of a priest to join the Church of Ireland clergy. The Reverend Martin Steele, currently a deacon at St Fin Barres Cathedral, will be ordained to the priesthood.

Bishop of Cork, Cloyne and Ross, Dr Paul Colton, said it was very important to mark this significant milestone since the death of St. Fin Barre. "I was reading some historical material late last year and noticed the date and did the sums. I said to myself hang on a minute; next year (2023) will be the 1400th anniversary, according to the usually observed year of the death of St Fin Barre, he said.

"On Saint Patricks Day last at the Civic Service in St Fin Barres Cathedral, I announced that we would be commemorating the anniversary and, since then, the Dean of Cork, the Very Reverend Nigel Dunne and I have been working on a modest programme. I am especially delighted that the Dean and the Cathedral Select Vestry have responded positively to my suggestion that we should commission a sacred icon of St Fin Barre to mark this anniversary. What we are really celebrating, of course, is the contemporary life of faith in this part of the world to which St Fin Barre brought the good news of Jesus Christ.

Legend has it that St. Fin Barre was the son of Amergin, whose tribe was descended from Eochaidh Muidmheadoin, brother of the king of Munster. Amergin settled in the territory of Muskerry, in the county of Cork, where he obtained an inheritance and land at a place called Achaidh Durbchon, near the spot afterwards known as Gougane Barra, at the sources of the river Lee.

He was chief smith to Tighernach, king of the Hy Eachach of Munster, and he married a young woman of the kings household. As this was in defiance of the kings wishes, the couple was summoned before him and he sentenced them to be burned alive. A storm of thunder and lightning, with heavy rain, prevented the decree from being carried out. This was regarded as a divine interposition and they were set free.

A child was born from this union and they returned to Gougane Barra, where the boy was baptised Luan,the or Lochan. When he was seven years old three clerics of Munster, returning from a pilgrimage to Leinster, happened to stop at the house of Amergin. They admired the boy for the grace of the Holy Spirit that seemed to them to shine in his face, and were allowed by his parents to take him away to be educated. He studied at a place called Sliabh Muinchill, where, as was usual at the time, he was tonsured and had his name changed. The cleric who cut his hair is said to have observed, Fair (finn) is the hair (barra) of Luan."Let this be his name, said another, Barr Finn, or Finn Barr.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. The European Parliament has adopted a resolution demanding the release of Gubad Ibadoghlu, the opposition figure unlawfully imprisoned in Azerbaijan, to condemn the grave human rights violations in Azerbaijan and impose sanction on Azerbaijani officials responsible for human rights violations.

The resolution was adopted with 539 votes in favor, 6 against and 24 abstentions.

The resolution states that Gubad Ibadoghlu, a renowned political economist and prominent opposition figure, was brutally attacked and arbitrarily detained on 23 July 2023 and remains in prison on dubious charges, having limited contact with his family and lawyer and reportedly being subjected to inhumane treatment. He is known for his criticism of Azerbaijans Government, particularly as regards corruption, inefficient management of public finances and lack of budgetary transparency; he is the Chairman of the Azerbaijan Democracy and Prosperity Movement, which has consistently been denied registration; Ibadoghlu faces a prison sentence of up to 12 years on fabricated charges.

The resolution further states that credible independent organizations currently list as many as 200 political prisoners in Azerbaijan, including journalists, civil rights activists and opposition politicians, and Azerbaijani human rights activists, such as Mahammad Mirzali, are also threatened outside national borders.

The resolution calls on the VP/HR, the EEAS and the Member States to condemn the serious human rights violations and breaches of democracy in Azerbaijan, and to raise cases such as Gubad Ibadoghlus in all bilateral meetings and during negotiations for a future partnership agreement, the signing of which should be conditional on the release of all political prisoners.
The manager of a mid Cork early childcare and Montessori school has spoken of her fear that childcare providers may be driven out of the sector by mounting costs, an ever-growing burden of bureaucracy and a difficulty to fill vacancies as staff members are enticed to work elsewhere by better wages and terms. Christina Buckley of Beehive Childcare and Montessori School in Berrings spoke to The Corkman in advance of a strike planned by childcare providers from around the country at the end of September, as they seek talks with Childrens Minister Roderick OGorman to discuss changes in the core funding model.

Beehive Childcare and Montessori Preschool in Berrings in mid Cork has 88 children attending, with opening hours of 7.30am to 6pm, and a staff of 25 which includes ancillary workers who provide fresh meals daily.

From a personal perspective we are luckier than other services because my mum owns it, I and my sister help manage it , we have support amongst ourselves, said Christina. I really feel for service providers who are doing this all by themselves. If I was doing it all on my own, theres no way I could put up with the stress. The issue was raised at this weeks meeting of Cork County Council when councillors spoke of the knock on effect for many parents who would have to stay at home from work to mind young children if childcare providers were, as they fear, forced out of the sector by the burden of stress and increased costs.

Its not just an issue of money as childcare providers are also facing increasing staffing issues as workers who are qualified in early years education can be enticed by better terms in schools as well as regulatory restrictions not allowing the recruitment of special needs assistants. Christina says she has been seeking since April to recruit someone to replace her when she goes out on maternity leave in weeks - but to no avail. Add to that the mountain of bureaucracy and administration that has to be tackled each week with issues such as an Irish Government portal which doesnt accept names with fadas written in Irish and it takes an entire day of phone calls and emails to resolve such issues. And then theres the matter of 88 children, some of them whom have additional needs, others who are two years and 8 months entering preschool needing constant care with a ratio of one to eleven and the stress staff feel driving them out of the sector completely.
Munster MEP Grace O'Sullivan speaks out in EU Parliament against recent anti-LGBTQ+ protest at Tralee Library.

Munster Green Party MEP Grace OSullivan has condemned the recent protests over teenage books relating to LGBTQ+ issues at Tralee Library at the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

Speaking at a recent event where a report on the future of the European book sector was adopted, she condemned the July protest in Tralee and attacks against libraries and bookshops in the context of ongoing far-right campaigns against them.

MEP OSullivan said Kerry people have always been proud of their literary heritage. But in recognition of growing pressure on libraries and bookshops, the EU report was passed by 513 votes in favour to 11 against.

It stressed that libraries and bookshops should be safe and welcoming spaces where a wide diversity of viewpoints are respected. MEP OSullivan described the Tralee Library incident as an attack against literature.

But Ireland is also no stranger to controversy. Remember that Brendan Behan and even Edna O'Brien had their books banned in Ireland, MEP OSullivan said.

Thankfully, we have moved past those days, and we will not allow extremists like those who barged their way into Tralee Library to bring us back to those darker days. This report we passed today [September 14] is a celebration of our book culture and a rallying call to defend our libraries and bookshops," she added.

The report was widely supported by the European book sector, which is responsible for publishing 600,000 titles annually. It included a call for more supports for books in minority languages (such as Irish) as well as calling for the introduction of a 'cultural voucher' system to allow young people better access to literature.

As well as the protest in Tralee, Cork City Library was forced to close on several occasions due to threats and aggressive demonstrations from far-right groups. Libraries in Limerick and Killaloe have also been targeted by extremist movements.

The EU event also stated that elsewhere in Europe, libraries and bookshops have come under intense pressure from right-wing groups and governments.

In Hungary, a Budapest bookstore was fined nearly 32,000 for displaying a graphic novel featuring young gay people.

Moreover, legislation in Hungary has banned schools from even teaching about the existence of homosexuality, sparking litigation from the European Commission.
Tralees Sinead Donnelly lines up for Fine Gael  Why not someone from a council estate who is a lone parent?

The Tralee community worker is looking forward to contesting next years Local Elections in her home town.

Sinead Donnelly. Photo by Mark O'Sullivan.

Stephen Fernane Kerryman Thu 14 Sep 2023 at 13:12

To listen and respond rather than respond without listening is Sinead Donnellys mantra in the early days of her 2024 Local Election campaign.
Prof Jacqueline McCormack, VP for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Online Development at ATU; Laura Austin, Senior Executive Officer from the HEA Centre of Excellence for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU and Dr Jennie Rothwell, Senior Manager of the HEA Centre of Excellence for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, sign the HEAs Race Equality Anti-Racism Principles.

Atlantic Technological University (ATU) has made a further commitment in combating racism in higher education by formally signing the Higher Education Authority (HEA)s Race Equality Anti-Racism Principles for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).

The Principles document set out by the HEA was signed on behalf of ATU by its President, Dr. Orla Flynn, as part of the institution's ongoing efforts to foster a culture of race equality within its community.

The HEA, recognising the importance of addressing race inequality in Irish higher education, invited all HEI Presidents to endorse these principles. Through this endorsement, HEIs acknowledge the existence of racial inequalities and racism within the Irish education system and commit to taking proactive measures to address these issues.

These Principles were developed after extensive consultation with stakeholders from the higher education sector and were informed by the findings of the Higher Education Authority National Race Equality survey and subsequent report published in October 2021.

Dr. Orla Flynn, President of ATU, stated, "ATU has made a public commitment to embedding a culture of race equality within our institution and strategic priorities. We aim to foster an open dialogue on advancing race equality and have recently established the ATU Race Equality Network to facilitate this dialogue."

Following the signing of the principles on September 5, members of the ATU Race Equality Network gathered to discuss their shared values and objectives to promote race equality throughout the university.

ATU welcomed Dr Jennie Rothwell, Senior Manager and Laura Austin, Senior Executive Officer from the HEA Centre of Excellence for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion to the ATU Sligo campus to witness the signing of the Principles.

By committing to the Race Equality Anti-Racism Principles for Irish Higher Education Institutions, ATU joins with other HEIs to:

Embed a commitment to race equality as part of institutional culture and strategic priorities

Highlight the structural, institutional, and historical dimensions of racism which have informed past and current practice in HEIs and the societies in which they are situated

Educate staff and students in relation to the structural, institutional, and historical dimensions of racism, as well as the more commonly recognised individual racism seen in acts of discrimination and abuse

Encourage an open dialogue on advancing race equality

Adopt an intersectional and intercultural approach when developing anti-racism actions and policies

Address questions of race equality within the institutions strategic plans

Record student and staff data disaggregated by ethnicity to inform anti-racism policies and actions, and monitor retention and career outcomes for students and staff from ethnic minority groups including Travellers

Continue to ensure a fair and transparent recruitment process for all staff, regardless of ethnicity

Address race equality issues in relation to progression and retention of students and staff from minority ethnic groups including Travellers

More details about the network's initiatives will be made available later this semester, and those interested in joining can contact edi@atu.ie for additional information.
There were some very heated exchanges as Sligo county councillors rejected a motion from Cllr Arthur Gibbons over what he termed the continued rip-off of students by some landlords.

Cllr Gibbon had proposed that in the wake of recent examples of the continued rip-off of students by some landlords particularly in the short-term letting sector; that this council calls on the government to bring in much needed legislation to protect the students and their guardians from this greed.

Cllr Gibbons said it was immoral the greed being shown by some accommodation suppliers in both the prices being asked for and the conditions the students are being asked to live in.

There is a severe shortage of student accommodation at colleges across the State.

Students are desperate to secure suitable rentals and as a result some accommodation suppliers and landlords are taking advantage of this desperation.

This situation has been going on for years and families are forced into paying education expenses long after their family members have left college.

This is happening because the government has failed to act and address the housing crisis despite clear and repeated warnings from students and people across the further and higher education sector.

I am deeply concerned by reports of students and their parents and guardians being forced to pay thousands of euros when they try to get accommodation.

Government must act urgently to protect students and tackle the underlying issues around the lack of a housing supply. The government has totally failed student renters by abandoning them while we are in the grip of a housing crisis.

Cllr Declan Bree said he supported the motion saying that today students were travelling long distances because they cannot afford or cannot access accommodation.

The journalist Jennifer OConnell recently pointed out that In Sally Rooneys Normal People, in 2011, Connell spent his student years in a flat off Brunswick Street, Dublin, sharing a box room with his friend Niall,

It was damp and cramped, but he could afford it thanks to a part-time job in a restaurant.

If Connell got his place in Trinity now, hed be looking at 287 per week for an en suite studio in a purpose built student accommodation block in the same part of town.

I believe it is time we stopped corporate landlords and the rich getting richer on the back of our students.

The government and higher education institutions now need to address the provision of affordable student accommodation in addition to the government tackling the housing crisis.

Cllr Donal Gilroy said he was paying for two students who are not in Sligo and he has to come up with 900 every month.

But it is a rip off? If you know somebody that is ripping off students have you reported them to the RTB.?

Ninety per cent plus of landlords are decent people, there are ordinary people who are financing their retirement or whatever.

Name and shame the rip off landlords, report them.

There is no point in saying they are all at it, they are not all at it, they are decent people and often they have the same students coming back to them year after year.

Cllr Gibbons clarified that he did not say all landlords.

There are landlords taking advantage of the situation all over the country.

Landlords provide a service and over 90 per cent are genuine and I saw students destroying houses so there is a balance to be got on this.

I am talking about those landlords who abuse the system, he said. Cllr Rosaleen OGrady said the ATU and the universities should have been ahead of the possee to get the funding.

I think we have to be careful here as over the years landlords have not had a great name suggesting that what they were doing was incorrect.

She said she was talking about the small landlord who rents a house to secure their pension and maybe secure their future for their family

Those people have been absolutely battered out of the system. There are 14,000 of the nanny landlords and I am not talking about the big landlords with several properties.

They provide a great service but we are taxing them at 52 per cent and put Universal Social charge on as well and now they are gone.

There is nothing wrong with initiative and we have to be careful what we say, she said.

Independent Cllr Michael Clarke said it was a dangerous motion, mentioning greed and rip-off. He said he wanted to commend any family who provided B and B, air BnB or who are providing beds for students, especially this year.

Cllr Clarke said it was a very unfair motion to the landlords that are going to give a bed to anybody. He said any student who can get a bed for 20 per night was getting a great deal.

Cllr Clarke said that attacking landlords who are providing a vital service was a disgrace.

I am listening for ten or twelve years to these guys whinging and the State provided them with houses.

If they are concerned about the housing market why dont they give up their Council houses and give them to a young couple that is starting.

This is ridiculous what we have to listen to and is this our future government, the Left?

Cllr Gibbons said: I dont know what game is going on here because nowhere does the motion say all landlords, it says some. I dont like the assertion thrown over about these guys in their Council houses.

I dont live in a County Council house and Cllr Bree does not live in a Council house.

I was proud to have been born in a Council house but I have moved on. This about some landlords who are ripping people off but it is being turned into mud slinging.

Cllr Clarke is making personal remarks. And that is very wrong, said Cllr Gibbons.

The motion was put to the floor and it was defeated on a vote of nine to four.

Cllr Gibbons remarked: that is a great message to send out.
New Ross Municipal chairman, Cllr Anthony Connick is calling on gardai to increase their patrols of the towns award winning park  saying pure thuggery leading to tens of thousands of euros in damage being caused.

Cllr Connick said it is not good enough that the towns public toilets are closed from 5 p.m. and had to be closed for three days recently due to vandalism.

"We need them open. Its costing thousands upon thousands that could be used somewhere else, he said.

"If someone is caught they should be made pay for it and if they cant afford it, their parents should be made pay for it. The damage they are doing, its pure thuggery. They are non stop kicking yokes in the toilet and breaking them. It so stupid. Someone, somewhere must know who they are.

Calling for the full rigours of the law to be enacted against them, Cllr Connick said nothing will change until gardai intervene and those responsible are brought to court or made to pay for the damage.

If they dirty the park they should be brought down and made clean it up. I have people on to me non stop looking to go to the toilet and they are closed. Its just mind boggling.

"Its the whole anti social aspect of it too. We are trying to get the town park to be the best it can be. We spent over 300,000 on a playground. Weve put massive money into the town park. Its for people to use, not to be abused."

Cllr Connick said those responsible for causing damage to the park should stay at home if they are going to behave like that.

Would they carry on like that at home in front of their parents? They are contributing nothing to the town park. Its the jewel in the crown and then the low-lifes come out and do this damage, which is absolutely disgusting. I am urging them to stop.

Supt Jarlath Duffy said evidence is needed to prosecute those responsible for the damage.

Criminal damage is a crime. The balance of proof that is required is high in the courts. We need witnesses. We need evidence to put to these people to prosecute them. Once we have that well have no hesitation to bring people before the courts.

Supt Duffy said gardai have increased their patrols in New Ross seven fold in one year, adding that beat gardai walk the town daily, including spending time patrolling the park most days.

We strive to have a beat patrol in the town which incorporates the town park. When the guards are in the park its crime prevention but once they leave the park the crime will happen.

Supt Duffy said gardai and Youth New Ross had an initiative in August in the town park where they engaged with youths.

We thought we had addressed the issue and there was a period of time when it stopped but unfortunately we had an incident three weeks ago. Its about parents taking responsibility for their children.

Supt Duffy said gardai had a drug seizure in the park when members on the beat proactively engaged with someone sitting at a park table.

He said gardai have not been made aware of heroin being used in the park, adding that the drug is in every town in Ireland and leads to crimes like burglary.

"Thankfully our burglary crime figures are very low. There is anti social behaviour in the park and drinking which can be dealt with by fixed charge notice fines and if the fine is not paid through the courts.
A Co Wexford hair salon scooped top prize for having the countrys best salon team, at the Irish Hair & Beauty Awards night  held in Dublin recently.

Linda Murphy Hair, based at Woodbine Business Park in New Ross, won a national prize for the second year running, having won a Hair Beauty and Style award in 2002 in the Best Stylist category.

Specialising in all aspects of hairdressing and with 24 years in the industry, Linda Murphy said: We were flabbergasted. It was our first time entering in this category.

She said an awards judge visited the salon and walked away with a strong impression.

"My girls are brilliant. Weve a young team. Each has their own passions. They come from all different backgrounds and some started out with me. Weve built up a good momentum. The judges said we came out on top overall in Ireland as the best salon team of the year. Linda said she prides herself on ensuring a bubbly welcome to all who step foot in her salon.

Linda, who also teaches hairdressing, thanked her staff their professionalism and positive contribution to the business.

She said business is very good, adding that she was disappointed to see the Vat increase, which had to be passed on to customers.

"Our customers are very loyal and thankfully we havent had a lot of cancellations and rescheduling.
The KIlmore Quay RNLI crew responded to two incidents on Monday, September 11, where sailors had become stranded at sea due to engine issues.

Early on Monday morning, the crew were requested to launch by the Irish Coast Guard to assist two people aboard a yacht with a fouled propeller approximately two miles south of Carnsore Point.

In similar weather and sea conditions, the lifeboat immediately launched and made its way to the yacht. Arriving on scene at 8.10 am, the crew assessed the situation and ensured all on board were safe and well. With a towline secured to the yacht, the lifeboat was soon under way back to Kilmore Quay, arriving back at the harbour 9:30 am.

Later that afternoon, the volunteer crew were requested to launch their all-weather Tamar class lifeboat, Killarney, by the Irish Coast Guard at 2:30 p.m. to assist a yacht on passage from France with one person on board that had lost power. Conditions at the time were good, with a light north westerly breeze and calm seas.

The lifeboat immediately launched and made its way to the yacht which was located near the Saltee Islands.

Arriving on scene ten minutes later, the crew assessed the situation, and decided to transfer a RNLI crew member to the yacht to assist in establishing a towline. The vessel was towed back to Kilmore Quay harbour arriving at 3.20 p.m. where they were met by an ambulance as a precaution.

Speaking following both call outs, Kilmore Quay RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager John Grace, said: We would remind anyone planning a trip to sea to always wear a life jacket and to always carry a means of calling for help. If you do get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
Katie Taylors fight with Amanda Serrano in April last year has been listed in the latest edition of the Guinness World Records book, given it was the first womens boxing match to headline Madison Square Garden in New York.

The Bray native is among several entrants from County Wicklow, and over a dozen from Ireland, who have remained unchallenged in a list of 2,638 record holders. Some have made the grade having excelled in various sporting disciplines, others have achieved things that nobody has ever done before  or since.

Take the record for the Worlds Largest Skinny Dipping event, which was broken by 2,505 women who attended a Strip and Dip on Maghermore Beach, in Wicklow, on June 9, 2018.

They smashed the record previously held by The Fig Group (Australia), who had 786 people take part at South Beach in Perth, Australia, in 2015.

The event was organised by Deirdre Featherstone, a cancer survivor who created the Strip and Dip after her mastectomy in April 2013. To date, she has helped raise 1,039,000 for Aoibheanns Pink Tie, a childrens cancer charity; on the day she entered the record books, 160,000 alone was raised.

Meanwhile, although the Bray to Greytones Cliff Walk should have its own entry in the record books for being The Most Popular Walk on Earth That Has Been Closed to the Public for the Longest Period of Time, it sits unbeaten for a challenge of a very different nature.

On May 11, 2014, the Longest Awareness Ribbon Chain (8,500 m, 27,887 ft 1 in) was created to support The Caroline Foundation (Ireland) in Greystones, and stretched from Bray, via the Cliff Walk, to Greystones. The foundation was established in memory of Greystones woman, Caroline Dwyer-Hickey, who lost her battle with cancer in 2013.

The Caroline Foundation achieved another record, when, in September 2016, The Most People in a Decorated Hat (1,410) gathered in Greystones to set a record that has gone unchallenged ever since.

Finally, back on Bray beach, on August 23, 2015, the Largest Gathering of People Dressed as Sumo Wrestlers  293 participants in total  dug their heels into the sand to set a record for Purple House Cancer Support.

Commenting on this years book, Craig Glenday, editor in chief, said only a small percentage of claims ever get through the selection process, so this years lot are the cream of the crop.

I say it every year, but its the best edition yet, he said.
COMPOSER Girish Paul will perform a special concert with his virtual orchestra in Rathnew to mark the worldwide release of his new album The Diary of Anne Frank Her Journey in Music.

The British-Irish multi-instrumentalists production has received the full support of the Anne Frank Fonds Foundation in Switzerland, founded by Annes father Otto Frank after World War Two, which has received several accolades

Known for his spectacular solo concerts that combine theatre, acting, film and music, Girish single-handedly performs the heart-warming music score with several instruments backed up by his famous virtual orchestra that together with dramatic visuals provides a stunning backdrop to the story of Anne Frank between 1942 and 1944.

The powerful storytelling is supported by filmed re-enactments of scenes in Annes life by talented Irish actors, from her happy schooldays in Frankfurt to the secret hiding place in Amsterdam as the Nazis closed in.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the show, Girish said: Way back in 1991 working as a teacher in the Middle East, my students and I found ourselves under scud missile attack as Operation Desert Storm kicked off around us, the largest military conflict since the second world war.

We were all fearful with thoughts of never seeing our loved one back home again, but I was determined to ensure that my students got on with the job of learning in spite of the Gulf War that raged around us for five long months.

I looked for words with which to inspire my students and to calm them in frightful times and I found them in The Diary of a Young Girl, a copy of which I found in the school library. I knew then that someday I would bring Anne Franks inspirational words, her dreams, compassion, resilience and her words of hope of the thirteen year old schoolgirl who has inspired millions through music, or film, or theatre and now finally we have produced a concert that combines all of these arts.

Work started on the script as soon as news arrived that war had returned to Europe with the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Anne Franks story is as relevant as ever, and we were determined to have the show ready for a 2023 launch and tour of Ireland to underline, not only the dangers of unchecked aggression by nations, but also how one girls determination not to be crushed by events, however harrowing, has inspired so many over the generations, added Girish.

The production takes place in St Brigids Hall, Rathnew Community Centre on Saturday, October 7, starting at 8 p.m.

Speaking about what audience members can expect, Girish stated: Carmel Barrett, the shows Executive Producer and I are thrilled to be bringing this powerful story, as relevant as ever now that war has sadly returned to Europe, to this lovely venue.

In spite of the tragic circumstances, Anne Frank enjoyed many happy moments whilst in secret hiding, and music lovers will be treated to a unique audio-visual experience that will sweep them through Annes life, from happy days at school, birthday celebrations to leaving home and the arduous journey to Amsterdam.

The audience will experience first-hand Annes growth, passions, conflicts, humour and her innermost feelings. The music features live instruments supported by recorded orchestral pieces that are synchronised with the actors performances up on the silver screen that will transport the audience to a bygone age. We wish to thank the venue and its staff for their kind support of our new production.

Tickets cost 15 and are available online from gr8events.ie.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit North Korea, Voice of Korea, a North Korean international broadcasting service, said on Thursday, Tass informed.

September 14, 2023, 11:20 Kim invited Putin to visit North Korea

STEPANAKERT, SEPTEMBER 14, ARTSAKHPRESS: "After the dinner, dear comrade Kim Jong Un cordially invited President Putin to visit the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea at any convenient time," it said, adding that Putin "accepted the invitation."

Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov said earlier that the issues of Putins return visit to North Korea was not on the agenda.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un held a more than five-hour-long meeting at the Vostochny Spaceport on Wednesday, their first summit in four years. Both leaders held talks with the participation of delegations from the two countries as well as in the one-on-one format. The agenda of the talks included issues of economic and humanitarian cooperation, the situation in the region as well as many other topics. The two leaders continued communication at the official dinner.

The North Korean leader arrived in Russia on an official visit at the invitation of the Russian president. Russia is the first state Kim is visiting after the coronavirus pandemic when his countrys borders were strictly closed. Kims previous visit to Russia was held from April 24 through 26, 2019. He arrived in Russias Far Eastern city of Vladivostok onboard his personal train. His talks with Putin in Vladivostok consituted their first-ever personal meeting.
Working in the same industry as a partner can enhance a relationship, according to Irish relationship expert Frances Kelleher. This comes as TV personality Patrick Kielty makes his hosting debut on RTEs The Late Late Show on Friday, following the departure of his predecessor Ryan Tubridy. Cat Deeley, who is married to Kielty, has also had a long-standing career in television presenting, hosting shows including SMTV and Stars in their Eyes.
40 years of fashion  Louise Kennedy, the woman who dressed Mary Robinson, celebrates trend-setting for four decades

Designers outfits have been front and centre in Irish life since 1983. Heres a look back at some of her most eye-catching looks...

A Louise Kennedy design from 1989. Photo: Mike Bunn

Bairbre Power Thu 14 Sep 2023 at 03:30

When Louise Kennedys graduate collection was picked up by Brown Thomas in 1983, her father  the legendary Tipperary hurler Jimmy Kennedy  created a studio for her in the stock room over the familys drapery shop on Liberty Square in Thurles.
View of a damaged Russian ship following a Ukrainian missile attack on Sevastopol in Crimea yesterday in this social media image obtained by Reuters

Ukraine said it struck Russian naval targets and port infrastructure early yesterday in the Crimean city of Sevastopol, in what appeared to be the biggest attack of the war on the home of the Russian navys Black Sea Fleet.
Meet the firm behind our content. Visit their website to see how their services can help your business succeed.
Mumbai/UNI: As part of DHL Groups DHL eCommerce division, Blue Dart Express Limited (BDEL) on Wednesday announced the unveiling of its newly revamped service, formerly known as Dart Plus, as Bharat Dart.

Bharat Dart is poised to redefine express logistics services in Bharat, offering unmatched speed, coverage, and support for businesses of all sizes, the logistics company said in a release.

Blue Dart Express Limited invites all stakeholders and customers to join on this transformative journey as the company continues to connect Bharat to the world and the world to Bharat.

Blue Dart's decision to rebrand this service stems from an extensive discovery and research process aimed at aligning itself to the evolving needs of its customers.the company said.

Through initiatives like DAWN (Delivery Anywhere Now) and RISE (Revenue Increase from SMEs and Emerging Markets), Blue Dart has significantly expanded its serviceable locations, with a special focus on tier II and tier III cities in India. The growth in these cities is closely related to the rise of a new middle class and the culture of consumption.

In FY-23, share of tier II and tier III cities as a percentage of the overall e-commerce market stood at 18.6% and 37.1% respectively, with a forecast to make further inroads in the sector.

Of the initiative, Pablo Ciano, CEO - DHL eCommerce, said Our DHL Group Strategy 2025 has identified e-commerce as a megatrend, and we are committed to our objective of Connecting People, Improving Lives.' We firmly believe in the immense potential to spotlight the unique products and services offered by India's small businesses and MSMEs in tier II and tier III cities on a global stage, enabled by our seamless delivery solutions. This vision harmonizes seamlessly with the government's 'Make in India' initiative.

Balfour Manuel, Managing Director, Blue Dart, said This rebranding represents an exciting transformation for us as we continue to serve the length and breadth of the country. Bharat Dart is the first step in a new and exciting chapter for our company and our nation. We are dedicated to leveraging our expertise to elevate our capabilities and enhance the overall customer experience."
Image Source: Social media

Seattle (US): The alleged remarks of an American cop over the death of an Indian student, Jaahnavi Kandula, revealed in a viral video, has triggered massive outrage. The 23-year-old student of Northeastern University was hit by a patrol car driven by police officer Kevin Dave in Seattle and her body was, reportedly, thrown some 100 feet away.

In a video, recovered from a body-worn camera of vice-president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, Daniel Auderer, the cop reportedly said Kandula had little value and the city should write her kins a cheque.

Yeah, just write a check. Eleven thousand dollars. She was 26 anywayShe had limited value, Auderer is heard talking about the accident in a call with the guild's president Mike Solan.

He laughed several times after saying she is dead.

This is Heartbreaking and Racist.. A hardworking Indian Student Jaahnavi Kandula was Killed by a Usa Cop Kevin Dave and then Her death Mocked by officer Daniel Auderer on Camera.

This is Unacceptable. Hardworking Indian Americans who pay their Taxes and Indian Students who Pay pic.twitter.com/yHhhiuOzt3  Nikhil Siddhartha (@actor_Nikhil) September 14, 2023

According to Fox13 Seattle, the accused driver, Kevin Dave, was driving the car at 74 mph (119 kmph) on the way to a report of an overdose when he hit Kandula at the intersection of Dexter Avenue North and Thomas Street.

The student was rushed to Harborview Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries, according to reports.

Media reports said that the entire episode of Auderer, allegedly making fun of Kandulas unfortunate and untimely death caused by a police car, is being investigated by a police watchdog agency in Seattle.

Jason Rantz, a host on KTTH-AM talk radio, later stated that he had acquired a written statement given by Daniel to the city's Office of Police Accountability. In the statement, Daniel allegedly explained that his comments were meant to replicate how the city's attorneys might respond to the incident. He also mentioned that Mike expressed sorrow over Jaahnavi's passing.

Jaahnavi had come to Seattle from Indias Bengaluru in 2021 to study for masters degree, and was pursuing a Master of Science in Information Systems at the College of Engineering. She was going to get the degree this December.

Meanwhile, India on Wednesday demanded a thorough investigation into the incident amid the uproar.Jaahnavi Kandula was raised by a single mother, who worked as an elementary school teacher. According to media reports, the mother took out loan so that Jaahnavi could travel to the US and pursue the degree.

.. for a thorough investigation & action against those involved in this tragic case.

The Consulate & Embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all concerned authorities.@IndianEmbassyUS @MEAIndia  India in SF (@CGISFO) September 13, 2023

Jaahnavi Kandula was raised by a single mother, who worked as an elementary school teacher. According to media reports, the mother took out loan so that Jaahnavi could travel to the US and pursue the degree.
Photo courtesy: Video grab

Hyderabad: Acor-politician Pawan Kalyan on Thursday announced a poll alliance between his Jana Sena party and the Telugu Desam Party led by former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu.

Naidu was recently sent to Rajahmundry Jail for a fortnight following his arrest in an alleged scam case amounting to Rs 371 crore.

Standing alongside Naidu's son, Nara Lokesh, and brother-in-law, Hindupur MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, Kalyan criticized the Andhra Pradesh government for what he deemed a "wrong" arrest, reported NDTV.

"Today I have taken a decision Jana Sena and Telugu Desam will go together in the coming election. This is not about our (his party's) political future... but the future of Andhra Pradesh," he was quoted as saying by NDTV.

This morning, Kalyan and Balakrishna visited Naidu in jail, following a ruling by the Andhra Pradesh High Court on Wednesday, which stated that the TDP chief would remain in custody at least until Monday.

With the state gearing up for an Assembly election next year, Kalyan emphasized that they "cannot afford YSRCP," referring to Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's YSR Congress Party.

"He did not fulfil his promises and is looting... from liquor he is making cash," his alleged.

Kalyan added that Naidus arrest was "purely political vendetta... condemn this arrest. I had to stand by Lokesh and Balakrishna because of YSRCP and Jagan."
The humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh is critical, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on September 14.

September 14, 2023, 11:42 Nikol Pashinyan warns of critical humanitarian situation in Artsakh

STEPANAKERT, SEPTEMBER 14, ARTSAKHPRESS-ARMENPRESS: The humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh is critical. The Russian humanitarian cargo that entered Nagorno-Karabakh through Askeran cannot have any visible impact on the situation. A part of the humanitarian goods sent by Armenia and France, 22 trucks, continue to wait near Kornidzor, not far from the Lachin Corridor, for an opportunity to enter Nagorno-Karabakh. Another, bigger part of the goods is located in a nearby area, Pashinyan said.

He noted that the international community continues to call for the opening of the Lachin Corridor, which has been unlawfully blocked by Azerbaijan.

All possible diplomatic efforts are being made to ensure access of humanitarian goods and future supplies into Nagorno-Karabakh. It is important to underscore that representatives of Nagorno-Karabakh are fully involved in these negotiations and discussions. We must hope that a reliable international mechanism for Baku-Stepanakert dialogue will be created, and we are encouraging our colleagues in Stepanakert to be involved in such a dialogue, PM Pashinyan said.
Image posted by Udhayanidhi Stalin on X

Chennai/IBNS: Days after triggering a political row with his remarks against Sanatana Dharma, DMK Youth Wing Leader and Tamil Nadu Youth Welfare and Sports Development Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin Thursday hit out at Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his 'Hindi uniting force' remarks.

In a social media post, Udhayanidhi, who is the son of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M.K.Stalin, strongly condemned the statement of Amit Shah that Hindi is the uniting force of India and it is empowering other regional languages.

Observing that Hindi was being spoken only in four of five states, Udhayanidhi said "hence the statement of Amit Shah is totally absurd".

Posting on X, he said, "I strongly condemn the statement of Union Home Minister Amit Shah claiming that Hindi is the uniting force of India and it is empowering other regional languages."

I strongly condemn the statement of Union Home Minister Amit Shah claiming that Hindi is the uniting force of India and it is empowering other regional languages.



Hindi is spoken only in four or five states in the Country and hence the statement of Amit Shah is totally absurd.  Udhay (@Udhaystalin) September 14, 2023

"Hindi is spoken only in four or five states in the country and hence the statement of Amit Shah is totally absurd," he said.

"It is only another version of imposing Hindi under the guise of generating livelihood," Udhayanidhi alleged.

"While we are speaking Tamil here, Kerala speaks Malayalam. Where does Hindi merge with and empower us?" he noted.

"Amit Shah should stop oppressing non-Hindi languages by calling them just regional languages. #StopHindiImposition," he said.

Recently Udhayanidhi remarks against Sanatana Dharma triggered a political row with BJP leaders across the country condemning it and demanded action against him. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a Cabinet meeting had asked his colleagues to respond to it adequately.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin defended his son Udhayanidhi on the issue and said the pro-BJP forces, unable to tolerate his stance against oppressive principles, have spread a false narrative, alleging that "Udhayanidhi called for the genocide of people with Sanatan thoughts."

He had accused pro-BJP forces of spreading a 'false narrative' on his son's remarks on Sanatana Dharma.

Stalin defended Udhayanidhi's remarks and alleged that PM Modi, who has failed to fulfil any of his promises, is attempting to divert attention by invoking Sanatan.

Stalin also said the BJP regime at the Centre is using Sanatana row as a shield to cover up its failures and corruption.

[With UNI inputs]
PM Modi arriving at the public gathering in MadhyaPradesh/ courtesy: BJP4India X page

New Delhi/IBNS: Launching a scathing attack on the opposition INDIA alliance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday said that the opposition wants to finish Sanatana Dharma and push the country back into slavery for 1,000 years.

This was PM Modi's first reaction to the Sanatana Dharma row that sparked over DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin's remarks.

Speaking in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, PM Modi said: "They held a meeting in Mumbai recently, and I think they decided the policy and strategy of how to run the 'ghamandiya' alliance there. They have also decided on a hidden agenda. The strategy is to attack the culture of India. They have decided to attack the faith of Indians and finish the thoughts, values, and traditions that have united the country for thousands of years."

Drawing a link between India's heroes and the Sanatana culture, he said, "The 'ghamandiya' alliance has resolved to finish the Sanatana culture and traditions that inspired Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. It was the strength of Sanatana that the Rani of Jhansi, Lakshmibai, could challenge the British and say that she would not give up her Jhansi."

PM Modi said Mahatma Gandhi considered Sanatana Dharma to be essential to his life.

"He was inspired by Lord Ram all his life. His last words were 'hey Ram'," he added.

The Prime Minister asserted that Swami Vivekanand and Lokmanya Tilak were also inspired by Sanatana and it was this culture that moved freedom fighters who were hanged by the British to say that they wanted to be born "in the lap of Bharat Ma" again.

"In the days to come, they will step up their attacks on us. Every Sanatani, every person who loves this country, those who love the people of this country; all of us have to stay vigilant. They want to finish Sanatana and push the country back into 1,000 years of slavery. But we have to stop such forces together. Through the strength of our organisation, we have to ensure that their strategy does not succeed,"he said.

PM Modi's remarks come days after Udhayanidhi Stalin, who is a Tamil Nadu minister and a leader of INDIA bloc member DMK, spoke about "eradicating" Sanatana Dharma.

Talking about caste differences, he equated Sanatana Dharma with diseases like dengue and malaria.

The remarks triggered a political row with BJP leaders across the country condemning it and demanding action against him. Even PM Modi at a Cabinet meeting had asked his colleagues to respond to it adequately.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin defended his son Udhayanidhi on the issue and said the pro-BJP forces, unable to tolerate his stance against oppressive principles, have spread a false narrative, alleging that "Udhayanidhi called for the genocide of people with Sanatan thoughts."

He had accused pro-BJP forces of spreading a 'false narrative' on his son's remarks on Sanatana Dharma.

Stalin defended Udhayanidhi's remarks and alleged that PM Modi, who has failed to fulfil any of his promises, is attempting to divert attention by invoking Sanatan.

Stalin also said the BJP regime at the Centre is using Sanatana row as a shield to cover up its failures and corruption.
Photo COurtesy: Unsplash

At least 70 garment factory workers, including eight women, were looted in a moving bus in Pakistan's Karachi city recently.

Victims said in their statements that they were heading home on a factory bus from their workplace when the incident occurred, reported The News International.

They said when they reached Shah Faisal Colony No. 3, six bandits, riding on three motorcycles, hijacked their bus and looted valuables, including 65 mobile phones and purses, from them.

Police have filed an FIR in connection with the incident.
Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

Several Baloch organisations will join to host a photo and banner exhibition from September 25 to 27 in front of the United Nations office in Geneva to make the international community conscious of human rights violations in the Balochistan province of Pakistan.

The event to be organised by the Baloch Voice Association in coordination with the Baloch Peoples Congress, MiMAN Association and Voice for Baloch Missing Persons will be held during the 54th UN Human Rights Council Session, reports ANI.

Munir Mengal, president of Baloch Voice Association told ANI, The event will be organised to draw the UN bodies, UN member states attention towards gross human rights violations systematically being done by Pakistani Army in Balochistan.

He added, Particularly, the whole Baloch society is in trauma due to Pakistani Inhuman Systematic act of disappearing Baloch people. As per reports more than 50,000 Baloch people, including women and children, are victims of enforced disappearances.

He also said that two conferences inside the United Nations office in Geneva will also be held during the 54th Session.

The objective of these events is to seek UN and UN member state attention towards gross human rights violations in Balochistan particularly about Enforced disappearance of Baloch people by Pakistani security forces, he said.

Munir said, UN member states and UN bodies shall intervene to stop Pakistan from barbaric acts in Balochistan. This shall be noted Pakistan occupied Balochistan by force and the people are resisting Pakistani forced occupation.

Meanwhile, the 54th Session of the UN Human Rights Council is currently going on from September 11 to October 13.
In light of Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent invigorated commitment to persist with genocidal actions in East Turkistan, the East Turkistan Government in Exile (ETGE) issues an immediate and urgent plea to the 78th United Nations General Assembly and its member states for immediate and decisive action to halt China's ongoing genocide against Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Kyrgyz and other Turkic peoples.

"China's ongoing genocide in East Turkistan is arguably the most pressing humanitarian crisis of our time, stated ETGE President Ghulam Yaghma.

"The deafening silence and paralyzing inaction of the international community are not just a betrayal of the Uyghurs and other Turkic peoples but a disturbing collapse of our shared human conscience, he added.

Since 2014, China's ongoing genocide and crimes against humanity in East Turkistan have escalated to include the mass internment of over three million Uyghurs and other Turkic peoples in an archipelago of concentration camps, prisons, and slave labour camps.

Beyond this, China's ongoing genocide in East Turkistan encompasses forced labour, sterilizations, cultural erasure and assimilation, the separation of nearly one million Uyghur children from their families, state-sponsored rape, and the suppression of religious freedom.

The United States government and parliaments of multiple Western nationsincluding Canada, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Lithuania, the Czech Republic, and France have officially labelled China's actions as genocide.

A 2022 UN report has further corroborated that these crimes may amount to crimes against humanity. "Democratic nations, spearheaded by the United States, must urgently prioritize the East Turkistan issue at both the UN General Assembly and Security Council," stated ETGE Strategic Advisor Dr. Mamtimin Ala.

"A failure to act lays bare a catastrophic shortfall in our global human rights architecture and represents a grave moral failure, he added.

Bound by the 1948 Genocide Convention, all UN member states have a treaty obligation to prevent and punish genocide.

Yet, most Western nations have merely issued symbolic condemnations of China's genocidal actions in East Turkistan, failing egregiously to enact meaningful preventative measures.

Their glaring double standards become all the more apparent when juxtaposed with their reactions to Russia's atrocities in Ukraine.

The passive stance of Muslim-majority and Turkic states, like Turkey, is profoundly disconcerting, given their obligations to their fellow co-religionists and ethnic kin.

The inconsistent stances of Western nations on crises like Russias aggression in Ukraine and China's ongoing genocide necessitate immediate course correction.

The ETGE calls on the UN and its member states to adopt a multi-pronged strategy that unequivocally condemns China's genocidal campaign in East Turkistan and provides asylum for those fleeing the horrors.

The strategy should also include supporting East Turkistan's pursuit of justice through the International Criminal Court and other international bodies, thwarting Chinese intelligence activities against the Uyghur diaspora, and elevating the East Turkistan issue on the UN Security Council's agenda.

Additionally, it should advocate for diplomatic boycotts of China-hosted events, enforce the Genocide Convention, honour the Responsibility to Protect mandate, recognize East Turkistan as an occupied country, and support the decolonization and empowerment of occupied nations like East Turkistan, Tibet, and Southern Mongolia.

"Every moment of failure to act enables China's genocidal machinery to extinguish more innocent lives in East Turkistan," warned ETGE Prime Minister Salih Hudayar. "The hour for action is already overdue; the world, especially the people of East Turkistan, can afford no further delay."
Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

The Central Bank of Afghanistan may soon ban the use of Pakistani currency in Pakistani currency (Rupee) in the southwestern provinces of the country.

The bank also asked citizens to cease their commercial transactions using the Pakistani currency.

The Central Bank has initiated the promotion of the Afghani currency in the countrys southwestern region since last week, reports Khaama Press.

Residents in the southwestern region have been given two-and-a-half months to conduct their commercial transactions using the Afghani currency, the Afghanistan-based news agency reported.

The banks announcement explicitly warns residents of the provinces of Kandahar, Uruzgan, Helmand, Zabul, and Dykundi to conduct their trading and transactions by using Afghanistani currency.

The announcement said after the specified date all transactions made with foreign currencies will be deemed illegal.

The bank warned strict action would be taken against violators.
The infamous matchmaker Sima Taparia has come under fire once again for her regressive comments about marriages and the rise in divorces.

In an interview with Mashable, she mentioned that people who seek divorces are egotistical. She said, "Those whom I have matched havent taken a divorce yet. But if it happened, it is because they dont have patience, flexibility, willingness to adjust, and egoism. Thats how problems are created. They dont have the values of giving, sharing, and caring."

sima taparia

As if this wasn't enough, she then went on a rant and blamed 'educated' women for taking a stand and not complying with the societal standards that have not evolved over the years. She further stated that educated women seldom listen to anyone and cannot adhere to their spouses expectations.



She said, "People are divorcing because there is no patience, no adjustment, egoism, ladkiya itana padh likh lete hai toh they say why should I listen to anybody (Highly educated girls dont listen to anybody)."

Her show Indian Matchmaking gained popularity for all the wrong reasons. Many deemed it as a 'cringe watch' as it preached too much regressiveness that has somewhat evolved with changing times. Sima aunty, as she is fondly called, continues to harp on old approach towards marriage and season after season, her advice to potential brides/grooms has been getting flak from the audiences.

sima

Her interview hasn't sit well with many on the internet as they are calling her out for shaming educated/working women and stereotyping them.



In other news, one of her clients Pradhuyman made headlines when her wife filed a domestic violence case against him.

In case, you want a quick revision, here's a recap of season 3:

Having spent 8 hours of my life binge-watching the latest season of Indian Matchmaking, I can safely say that Sima Taparia is an old tape stuck in a rusty recorder emanating the same dialogues - Compromise is must, If you get 60-70 percent, you should go ahead and at the end its all destiny among others.



netflix

You would think that she would keep up with the fast-changing world. Unfortunately, Sima Taparia is still stuck up in the 80s.

Lets dive right into the latest season that feels a more watered-down version in comparison to the previous two seasons.

1. We get to see some old faces including Viral Joshi from Season 2 who is now dating Aashay Shah and the two are going pretty strong. So much so that, Aashay takes her to India to make her meet his parents. Not surprisingly, the parents are pretty accepting of their sons choice and give a big thumbs up to their happily ever after.

netflix

The duo is then shown shopping at a jewellery store not for an engagement but just casual gifts for the lady. They walk out of the store with a bracelet costing Rs 20-25 Lac and diamond earrings just because Aashay felt they looked good on Viral!



Well, the bottom line is Viral has finally gotten her fairytale on her own but she feels her experience with Sima Taparia from Mumbai led her to her perfect match!



2. We are introduced to our first new prospect Priya who is a divorcee and looking to start her life afresh but on her own terms.

Sima Aunty calls her case a disadvantage as itll be difficult to find a good match for her according to her long list of criteria.

Priya giving a hard pass to a potential match due to lack of hair doesnt sit down too well with the celebrated matchmaker. The next boy doesnt make the cut due to height which offends Sima even more. However, she doesnt give up. After another failed attempt, the third guy manages to break the walls of Priyas heart and the two hit it off. Unfortunately, we dont get to witness their happily ever after as their story ends abruptly.

3. Another old face from season 2 to make a comeback is - Rushali.

Avid fans would instantly recognize her as she formed an alliance with Pradyuman but it couldnt materialize into a wedding.

She picks a match out of the two presented to her but it falls flat because the guy has different ideologies when it comes to family bonding. After another failed attempt, Sima Aunty nudges her in a relationship advisors direction as Rushali seems to have issues when it comes to taking the plunge as she isnt ready to leave her parents. After a quick session, Rushali expresses how things seem much clearer now that she has openly voiced her concerns.

Just like the others, even Rushalis story is abruptly ended.

4. Cut to another NRI client Vikash. Hes a healthcare professional and way past the marriageable age as per the societal standards. Sima aunty tells the soon-to-be forty-year old to not be picky and compromise.

She brings with herself three alliances out of which only one makes the cut that too barely! Anjali Naskar and Vikash meetup for a painting date and it goes decently well. After a couple of more dates, Vikash announces that the chemistry is missing and then moves on to the next match. This one draws a similar conclusion only this time, Vikash is more upfront and tells the girl that he isnt feeling the vibe towards the end of the first date itself.

netflix

Last but not least, Vikash then goes for a wine-tasting with Janki and this time he hits it off with her instantly. Lots of laughter, good vibes and wine later, the two decide to meet up again but thats the end of Vikashs story.



5. The show then takes us to Miami, where Arti, a headstrong Sindhi girl, discusses her ideal husband with Sima Taparia. After rummaging through her files, Sima gets her two potential matches. Arti leans towards Avinash, who is not only Sindhi but also Aparna from Season ones cousin. The two meet and have a pleasant conversation but it somehow doesnt impress Arti who then goes on a zoom date with the second one and it ends with the same result as the first one - lack of chemistry.

netflix

Sima then repeats the same lines for the hundredth time: you will not get everything, in one meeting you cant decide theres no chemistry, youngsters have no patience, arti is very adamant etc.

During her monologue, one can see Arti getting visibly exhausted as she is unable to make Sima understand her point.

While speaking to the camera, she then says that Sima aunty needs to understand that this set up is not arranged or love but something in between.

netflix

Arti then takes matters into her own hands and finds a man for herself on a dating app. She is the only one from the current season to find her happy ending and an elaborate marriage proposal, that too on her own terms and preferences.



6. Pavneet from New Delhi enrolls herself into Sima auntys coveted programme. Standing tall at 6ft, she describes her criteria for a suitable husband. Now, Sima Taparia expresses how getting suitable matches for her would be a big problem considering her height. She sets Pavneet up with Tushar Tyagi, the same guy who previously went on a date with Rushali.

This time around, the meeting goes well and the two seem to like each other. However, Tushar apparently ghosted her and went MIA for almost two weeks only to surface again to ask her out for a second date. Whether the two end up making it official or not hangs in the balance.

7. What stood out this season was that viewers got a peek into Sima auntys personal life. We are introduced to her two daughters, son-in-law, granddaughter and her super supportive husband. Interestingly, even the family is as invested in getting people married as Sima aunty herself. We also get to meet Simas sister Sandhya as the two catch up in the US and discuss the new generations approach towards marriage.

netflix

Theres also a tender moment that Sima shares with her husband Anup, reminiscing about their life in Nasik.

We see Sima getting emotional about the challenges they faced and how her husband was her pillar of strength along with their family friends/neighbours in Nasik as they helped her raise their daughter as the duo was away from their family.



Final thoughts

As seasons progress, theres a definitive shift in the clients and we get to see a large variety of potential brides and grooms with their larger lists of criterias. However, Sima aunty is still the same and imposes the same ideologies on her clients. Theres only so much that one can hear her repetitive lines - Its all destiny, 60-70% funda, compromise is necessary, girl is adamant and boy is picky among others.

Its safe to say that one cannot even hate-watch the show anymore as there are no new elements in it, just new faces with zero percent success rate.

netflix

While the show definitely ended with a marriage proposal, it wasnt due to Sima Taparias matchmaking. It remains to be seen if she is able to present one successful match on the show. Until then, most of the fans will end up feeling frustrated as the credits of the final episode roll down.

Indian Matchmaking is available to stream on Netflix.

(To read more such stories related to movies and shows released on OTTs, keep reading Indiatimes BINGE)
Engineers Day 2023: Engineers Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor every year to honour the remarkable contributions of engineers to society. This day serves as a tribute to the hard work, innovation, and problem-solving abilities of engineers around the world.

The Birth of Engineers Day

Engineers Day is celebrated on different dates in various countries. However, the most widely recognised Engineers Day is observed on September 15th in India, commemorating the birthday of one of India's greatest engineers, Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya. He was not only an exceptional engineer but also a statesman and the recipient of the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award.

Engineers Day 2023: Speech Ideas For Students In English | Shutterstock

Sir M. Visvesvaraya: Father of Engineering

Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya was born on September 15, 1861, in Muddenahalli village in Karnataka. At the age of 15, he lost his father, a Sanskrit scholar. He completed his early education in Chikkaballapur and then he moved to Bangalore for higher education. In Pune, he joined the Science College to study Engineering and was ranked first in the Examinations in 1883.

September 15 is observed as Engineer's Day in India to mark the birth anniversary of Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya - considered a pioneer in the field of engineering in India.

ALSO READ: Best Engineers Day 2023 Wishes And Quotes

Also Read: 100+ Top Engineers Day 2023 Wishes and quotes



As Today, we are celebrating Engineer's Day 2023, Here are some Engineers Day speech ideas throwing some light on National Engineers Day. I hope it might be interesting and useful to all the students in learning about this day in an easy format.

Engineers Day 2023: Speech Ideas For Students In English | Shutterstock

Engineers Day Speech 2023 English

Today, we come together to celebrate not just a day on the calendar, but a day that honours the unsung heroes of our societyour engineers. Engineers Day is a day of reflection, gratitude, and profound respect for those who shape our world with their innovation, dedication, and unwavering spirit.

As we stand here today, let us take a moment to look around and realise the incredible impact of engineering on our lives. From the moment we wake up to the time we lay down to rest, engineering surrounds us. It's in the roads we travel, the buildings we inhabit, the gadgets we can't live without, and the medical marvels that save lives.

But beyond the concrete and steel, engineers build something even more profoundthey build dreams. They transform ideas into reality, making the impossible seem ordinary. They are the architects of progress, the visionaries who propel us into the future. Engineers are the bridge between what is and what could be.

It's easy to forget the passion and dedication that lie at the heart of engineering. It's easy to overlook the sleepless nights, the relentless problem-solving, and the burning desire to make the world a better place. Engineers are not just creators of machines; they are creators of change, creators of hope.

As we celebrate Engineers Day, let us remember the giants who walked before us, the likes of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, whose legacy still inspires us today. Let us also recognise the unsung heroes, the engineers who work tirelessly behind the scenes, making our lives safer, more comfortable, and more connected.

But this day is not just about celebrating the past or the present; it's about nurturing the engineers of the future. It's about igniting the spark of curiosity and innovation in the hearts of our young minds. It's about telling our students that they hold the keys to unlock a brighter tomorrow.

To the students here today, I say this: consider the path of engineering. It's not just a career; it's a calling. It's a chance to be part of something bigger than yourself, a chance to leave a lasting impact on the world. It's a journey of discovery, a journey of creation, a journey of hope.

Engineering is not just about equations and calculations; it's about imagination and creativity. It's about the relentless pursuit of solutions, the courage to question the status quo, and the audacity to dream big. Engineering is a testament to human potential, a reminder that we are capable of greatness.

In closing, let us embrace Engineers Day with a deep sense of appreciation for the engineers who have shaped our world. Let us carry their legacy forward, and let us inspire the engineers of tomorrow. Together, we can build a future that is not just sustainable but filled with endless possibilities.

Happy Engineers Day, and thank you to all the engineers who continue to move the world forward with their innovation, dedication, and heart.

Thank you.

Happy National Engineers Day 2023 Images | Photo: Canva

10 Lines On Engineers Day for Students and Children In English

1. Engineers' Day is a day of honouring the unsung heroes who shape our world with innovation and dedication.

2. It's a celebration of the tireless problem solvers, the dreamers, and the architects of progress.

3. Engineers transform ideas into reality, making the impossible seem ordinary, and bridging the gap between dreams and accomplishments.

4. Beyond buildings and gadgets, engineers build hope, inspire change, and create a better future for us all.

5. It's a day to remember visionaries like Sir M. Visvesvaraya, whose legacy continues to inspire generations.

6. Engineers' Day is a reminder that engineering is not just a career; it's a calling to make the world a better place.

7. Engineering is the fusion of science, creativity, and unwavering dedication to problem-solving.

8. It's about daring to imagine, challenging the status quo, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

9. As we celebrate Engineers' Day, let us nurture the young minds that hold the keys to a brighter tomorrow.

10. Engineers' Day is a tribute to those who remind us that with innovation, determination, and heart, we can build a world filled with endless possibilities.
Different between Hindi Diwas and World Hindi Day: Hindi Diwas is an annual celebration held on September 14th. The primary objective of the government in observing Hindi Diwas is to promote and preserve the Hindi language and its cultural heritage.

But, many of us are confused about the difference between Hindi Diwas and World Hindi Day. Here's all you need to know. Including Hindi there are 22 scheduled languages in the country.



Widely spoken in North India, Hindi is also used for communication in other parts of the country. Many state governments conduct official functions and issue notifications in Hindi.

hindi diwas 2023 images | Photo: Freepik

Not just in India, Hindi is also spoken in other countries such as Fiji, Mauritius, Trindad and Tobago. To encourage the use of Hindi in daily life and highlight the contribution of writers and poets of this language, Hindi Diwas is celebrated on September 14 every year.



The main aim to celebrate Hindi Diwas was to promote the Hindi language. On Hindi Diwas, many schools and universities around the country encourage students to engage in literary and cultural activities in Hindi, such as poetry competitions, essays, and letter-writing contests.

But many of us are confused about the difference between Hindi Diwas and World Hindi Day. Here's all you need to know about:

Difference between Hindi Diwas and World Hindi Day?

Each year, on September 14th, Hindi Diwas commemorates the designation of Hindi as India's national language. On the other hand, World Hindi Day, also known as Vishwa Hindi Divas, is celebrated annually on January 10th, in honor of the inaugural World Hindi Conference held on that date in 1975. This global observance aims to encourage the usage of the Hindi language worldwide.

The decision to observe January 10th as World Hindi Day was made during a follow-up committee meeting for the World Hindi Conference on June 8th, 2005. Consequently, the first celebration of World Hindi Day took place on January 10, 2006.

It's important to distinguish Hindi Diwas from National Hindi Diwas, which commemorates the adoption of Hindi as one of India's official languages by the Constituent Assembly.

As of 2021, according to Forbes India, Hindi ranks as the third most spoken language globally, with 600 million speakers. The government's main objective in celebrating Hindi Diwas is to promote and propagate the Hindi language and its culture.

Why September 14th is chosen for Hindi Diwas

Hindi Diwas is celebrated on September 14th to commemorate the day when Hindi was adopted as one of India's official languages, recognising its role in promoting national unity and preserving the nation's cultural heritage.

- On September 14, 1949, the Indian Constituent Assembly officially recognized Hindi as one of the official languages of the newly independent nation. This significant step was taken as part of a broader initiative to acknowledge and encourage the rich linguistic diversity within India, while also establishing a common language for national communication.



- The decision to establish Hindi as an official language was viewed as a significant move towards promoting national unity. Given India's extensive linguistic diversity, there was a necessity for a language capable of acting as a binding factor, transcending regional divisions.



- This date carries significant historical importance as it signified a pivotal moment in the nation's efforts to shape its language policies and promote Hindi, one of India's most widely spoken languages, as a cornerstone in the process of nation-building.

- Hindi Diwas serves as more than just a commemoration; it serves as a poignant reminder of the imperative to advocate for and safeguard the Hindi language. This observance fosters the utilization of Hindi in governmental affairs, education, and numerous facets of public existence.

- Hindi serves as a reflection of India's vibrant cultural legacy, and observing Hindi Day is a means of acknowledging and safeguarding this cultural heritage. It aids in acknowledging the significant role played by Hindi literature, art, and culture in shaping the nation's development and sense of self.

For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.


National Engineers' Day 2023 Theme, History: National Engineers' Day is celebrated annually on September 15th in India. This day is dedicated to celebrating the contributions of legendary engineer and statesman, Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya of India who was born on September 15, 1861. He is widely regarded as one of India's greatest engineers and a pioneer in the field of engineering and technology.



On the day of National Engineers Day, various educational institutions, engineering organisations, and government agencies organise seminars, workshops, and events to highlight the importance of engineering and its impact on society.

Engineers Day 2023 image | Photo: Freepik

It's also a time for engineers to come together, share knowledge, and discuss ways to address contemporary challenges through engineering solutions.



Also Read: Engineers Day 2023 Speech Ideas For Students



Also Read: 100+ Top Engineers Day 2023 Wishes and quotes

Here's some information about National Engineers' Day 2023, including the date, theme, history, and the reasons why it is celebrated in India.

National Engineers' Day is observed on September 15th every year to celebrate the birth anniversary of eminent Engineer Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya also known as the father of engineer and recognise the contributions made by him in the field of science and technology..

National Engineers Day 2023 Theme:

Year Theme National Engineers Day 2023 Theme

'Engineering for a Sustainable Future' National Engineers Day 2022 Theme

'Engineering for A Healthy Planet  Celebrating the UNESCO Engineering Report' National Engineers Day 2021 Theme

'Engineering for A Healthy Planet- Celebrating the UNESCO Engineering Report' National Engineers Day 2020 Theme

'Engineers for a Self-Reliant India' National Engineers Day 2019 Theme

'Engineering for change'

The theme for National Engineers Day 2023 is 'Engineering for a Sustainable Future. The theme for National Engineers' Day 2023 is typically chosen by various engineering organisations, educational institutions, and government bodies. These themes often revolve around technological advancements, innovation, and the role of engineers in addressing societal challenges.

National Engineers' Day history

National Engineers' Day is celebrated in India on September 15th every year to honor the birth anniversary of one of India's greatest engineers, Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya. Sir M.V. was born on September 15, 1861, and is widely regarded as a pioneer in the field of engineering in India.

Sir M. Visvesvaraya was not only an exceptional engineer but also a statesman and a visionary who played the key role in building of modern India during the early 20th century. His contributions include designing and implementing various irrigation and flood control systems, such as the famous Krishna Raja Sagara dam in Karnataka, which has been pivotal in agricultural development in the region.



He also served as the Diwan (Prime Minister) of the princely state of Mysore from 1912 to 1918, during that time he initiated several reforms and infrastructure projects and new industries came up like 'The Sandal Oil Factory' and 'Chrome Tanning Factory' and transformed Mysore into one of the most advanced and well-planned states in India.



In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of engineering and his dedicated service to the country, the Indian government decided to celebrate his birthday as National Engineers' Day. This day not only pays tribute to Sir M. Visvesvaraya but also aims to promote the importance of engineering and technology in the development of the country.



Engineers across India use this occasion to celebrate their profession and highlight the role engineers play in building and advancing society. Various events, seminars, workshops, and award ceremonies are organized on National Engineers' Day to inspire young minds to pursue careers in engineering and to recognize the achievements of outstanding engineers.



Sir M. Visvesvarayas notable achievements:

- Sir Visvesvaraya designed and implemented several irrigation and water supply systems, including the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam, which played a crucial role in addressing water scarcity and promoting agriculture in the region.



- He was instrumental in developing a system to protect Hyderabad from the perennial Musi River floods.

- He played a key role in the establishment of the Government Engineering College in Bangalore, which is now known as the Visvesvaraya Technological University.

- Sir Visvesvaraya contributed to the industrialization of India by advocating for and implementing various industrial projects.

- He was awarded numerous honors, including the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 1955.

About Sir M. Visvesvaraya: The Father of Engineering

Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya also called the father of engineering for his vital contribution to the field of engineering and education. He was born on September 15, 1861, in Muddenahalli village in Karnataka. At the age of 15, he lost his father, a Sanskrit scholar. He completed his early education in Chikkaballapur and then he moved to Bangalore for higher education. In Pune, he joined the Science College to study Engineering and was ranked first in the Examinations in 1883.



M Visvesvaraya is credited with inventing the block system, automated doors that close the water overflows. Sir Visvesvaraya designed and patented the floodgates which were first installed at the Khadakwasla reservoir in Pune in 1903.



September 15 is observed as Engineer's Day in India to mark the birth anniversary of Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya - considered a pioneer in the field of engineering in India. He is considered among the greatest nation-builders who played a crucial role in constructing dams, reservoirs and hydro-power projects of modern India.



Due to his outstanding contribution to society, the Government of India conferred 'Bharat Ratna' on this legend in the year 1955." He was also awarded the British knighthood by King George V, and hence has the honorific "sir".

Why Engineers' Day is Celebrated in India:

Engineers' Day is celebrated in India to honor the memory of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya and to acknowledge the significant role that engineers play in the development and progress of the nation. Engineers are at the forefront of innovation, technological advancement, and infrastructure development, all of which are essential for a country's growth and prosperity.

The day serves as a reminder of the importance of engineering in solving complex problems, improving the quality of life, and contributing to economic development. It also encourages students to pursue careers in engineering and inspires existing engineers to continue their work with dedication and innovation.



National Engineers' Day in India, celebrated on September 15th, pays tribute to the legendary engineer Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya and recognizes the invaluable contributions of engineers to the nation's development and progress. It is a day to celebrate innovation, problem-solving, and the pivotal role engineers play in shaping the future of India.

Why is National Engineer's Day celebrated on September 15th?

September 15th was chosen as National Engineer's Day in India to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, a renowned Indian engineer and statesman. He made significant contributions to engineering and played a crucial role in the development of India's infrastructure.

Engineers' Day celebrations around the world

National Engineers' Day is celebrated in many countries around the world to honor the contributions of engineers to society. The specific date and significance of this day can vary from one country to another. Here are a few examples of National Engineers' Day in history from different countries:

India

In India, National Engineers' Day is celebrated on September 15th, the birth anniversary of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya. He was an legandory Indian engineer, scholar, and statesman who made significant contributions to various engineering fields. This day is an opportunity to recognize the role of engineers in nation-building.

Sir M. Visvesvaraya made significant contributions to the development of modern India. He played a key role in the construction of dams, bridges, and various infrastructure projects across the country. His most notable contributions include designing the Krishna Raja Sagara dam in Karnataka and advocating for the development of a comprehensive irrigation system in the region.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to engineering, the Indian government decided to celebrate his birthday as National Engineers' Day. This day serves as an occasion to honor and pay tribute to all engineers in India who work tirelessly to advance technology, infrastructure, and innovation in various fields.



National Engineers' Day is not only a day to celebrate the achievements of engineers but also to inspire young minds to pursue careers in engineering and contribute to the nation's growth and development.



USA

In the United States, National Engineers Week is celebrated annually during the third full week of February. While not a single day, it is a week-long event dedicated to celebrating engineering achievements and promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.

Russia

In Russia, Engineers' Day is celebrated on December 22nd. This date commemorates the founding of the Russian Society of Engineers in 1866. It is a day to honor the achievements of Russian engineers and their contributions to technological advancements.

China

China celebrates its Engineers' Day on March 1st. This date was chosen in honor of the founding of the Chinese Society of Engineers in 1915. It is a day to acknowledge the role of engineers in China's development and progress.

Iran

In Iran, Engineers' Day is observed on February 24th, which coincides with the birthday of Ali Nasr Isfahani, an Iranian engineer and scholar known for his contributions to mathematics and engineering.

These are just a few examples of National Engineers' Day celebrations around the world, each with its unique history and significance. Engineers are celebrated these days for their vital role in advancing technology, infrastructure, and innovation, which have a profound impact on society's progress and well-being.

Happy National Engineers Day 2023 wishes to send loved ones

Expressing your best wishes is a great way to show your appreciation. Here are some heartfelt Happy National Engineers Day wishes for your loved ones:

1. Happy National Engineers' Day to all the brilliant minds shaping our world with innovation and creativity!



2. Wishing a fantastic National Engineers' Day 2023 to the architects of our future, the engineers!

3. Cheers to the engineers who turn dreams into reality. Happy Engineers' Day 2023!

4. On this Engineers' Day, let's celebrate the problem solvers, the creators, and the builders of tomorrow.

5. To the unsung heroes behind every innovation, Happy National Engineers' Day 2023!

6. May your designs be flawless, your projects successful, and your Engineers' Day joyful!

7. Happy Engineers' Day to the professionals who make our world a better place, one innovation at a time.

8. Celebrating the minds that keep the world running smoothly. Happy National Engineers' Day!

9. Engineers: where science meets creativity. Wishing you a spectacular Engineers' Day!

10. On this Engineers' Day, let's appreciate the dedication and hard work of engineers in every field.

11. Here's to the engineers who build bridges, both literally and metaphorically. Happy Engineers' Day!

12. Happy National Engineers' Day to those who turn complex problems into elegant solutions.

13. May your designs be innovative, your calculations precise, and your Engineers' Day delightful!

14. Engineers are the architects of a brighter future. Cheers to you on Engineers' Day!

15. Happy Engineers' Day to the problem-solvers and innovators who make our world more efficient and sustainable.

16. On this special day, let's recognize the engineers who continually push the boundaries of what's possible.

17. To the engineers who bring imagination to life, Happy National Engineers' Day!

18. Engineers don't just solve problems; they create opportunities. Wishing you a fulfilling Engineers' Day!

19. Here's to the engineers who build the world one project at a time. Happy Engineers' Day!

20. Celebrating the genius minds that engineer progress. Happy National Engineers' Day!

21. Happy National Engineers Day 2023 to all the engineers! Your innovation and dedication continue to amaze us. Keep building a better world!



22. Wishing the happiest Engineers Day to the genius who knows how to turn dreams into reality. We're proud of you!

23. To the engineer who always finds solutions to every problem, here's to you on Engineers Day. May your path be filled with success!

24. Happy National Engineers Day to the one who adds precision to our lives. Your work is truly remarkable.

25. Engineers like you make the world a marvel. May your Engineers Day be as outstanding as your creations.

Happy National Engineers Day 2023 Funny Quotes

1. A horse is a sphere if it makes the numbers easier. Unknown

2. Whenever you are asked if you can do a job, tell em, Certainly, I can! Then get busy and find out how to do it.  Theodore Roosevelt



3. You can use an eraser on the drafting table or a sledge hammer on the construction site.  Frank Lloyd Wright



4. Engineers: were like magicians, but with math.



5. Behind every great invention, theres an engineer who thought, I can make this better!'

Happy National Engineers Day 2023 to all the engineers!



For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has left for Russia for talks with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on September 15, the BelTA news agency said.

September 14, 2023, 14:23 Lukashenko travels to Russia for talks with Putin

STEPANAKERT, SEPTEMBER 14, ARTSAKHPRESS: "On September 14, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has left for the Russian Federation on an official visit. The central part of his visit will involve talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on September 15," the agency said.

It is noted that the talks will focus on the international agenda and regional issues as well as joint projects in the economic sphere, for instance in the industrial, agricultural and other sectors, as well as in the field of import substitution.

According to the news agency, the two leaders had planned consultations in accordance with the previously coordinated schedule.

Previous talks between Lukashenko and Putin were held in St. Petersburg on June 23. In addition to economic cooperation, the two presidents touched on many issues including the progress of Russias special military operation in Ukraine and NATOs intensifying activity in Poland.

At the end of August, the Belarusian government said that Minsk was coordinating with Moscow 12 additional import-substituting industrial projects which may be financed by a Russian loan. Belarusian Deputy Prime Minister Petr Parkhomchik said that currently, 17 investment projects to the tune of 127 bln Russian rubles (over $1.3 bln) within the Union State are being implemented while 12 more projects worth 37 bln rubles (more than $385 mln) are at the coordination stage.
Regulators in France recently ordered Apple to stop selling the iPhone 12, claiming that it emits electromagnetic radiation levels that are above European Union standards for exposure. The French agency found that iPhone 12 smartphone failed one of two types of tests for electromagnetic waves that may be absorbed by the body.

Apple has already disputed the findings, saying that the device complies with regulations. iPhone 12 was released in 2020 and failed to pass the agency's latest round of tests.

Unsplash

Why France is worried about iPhone 12

France's digital minister Jean-Noel Barrot said that iPhone 12's radiation levels are still below what studies claim could cause harm to user. The National Frequency Agency, Barrot said, itself claims that these tests don't reflect typical smartphone usage.

Even then, the NFA asked Apple on Tuesday to "implement all available means to rapidly fix this malfunction" for iPhone 12 models that have already been sold. In addition, it vowed to monitor device updates. If this doesn't work out, the agency warned that Apple would have to recall phones that have already been sold.

The agency tested 141 mobile phones and found that when iPhone 12 is held in a hand or carried in one's pocket, its level of electromagnetic energy absorption is 5.74 watts per kilogram, higher than 4 watts per kilogram - the standard for EU. iPhone 12, however, managed to pass a different test of radiation levels for devices kept in a jacket or in a bag.

Unsplash

Also read: France Will Introduce 'Porn Passports' To Protect Kids From Pornographic Content

Apple claims that iPhone 12 is safe and that it has been certified by numerous international agencies. The American tech giant said that it had provided the French agency with numerous test results that were done by the company itself and third-party labs.

Barrot told France Info radio that iPhone 12's radiation levels are "slightly higher" than EU standards but "significantly lower than levels where scientific studies consider there may be consequences for users. But the rule is the rule."

Unsplash

Also read: How Severed Fibre Cables In France Impacted Internet Connectivity Globally



The agency says that tests "do not reflect the most common use of a telephone." These tests were done in a diagnostic lab using a liquid-filled mold that simulated a human head and body with brain and muscle tissue.

What do you think about this move? Let us know in the comments below. For more in the world of technology and science, keep reading Indiatimes.com.
What happened in 9/22 over the Black Sea  Do you realize what you did? said the commander of the Su-27 to the co-pilot who thought he had a shoot-down order
The government holds a series of meetings ahead of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis speech at the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) on Saturday . The scenarios for government reshuffle seem to have

Mitsotakis to focus on civil protection; government reshuffle postponed -  
caused a trail of devastation to the industrial -manufacturing businesses of the Thessalian plain, leaving behind dozens of flooded factories, mainly in the regional unit of Larissa . There are

Storm Daniel delivers blow to Thessalys industrial sector -  
The minister added that he had also met earlier with the Union of Greek Shipowners and requested their help in managing the repercussions of the crisis.
Gerapetritis noted that Greece is on the front line of migration, due to its geographical position, and bears a disproportionate share of the migration burden. He noted that migration and refugee flows will not stop as wars and inequality will always encourage the movement of populations seeking safety and a better future
On Monday this week, the Financial Times reported the EU is considering dropping its plans for stricter animal welfare measures, including the ban on caged farming.
The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has reversed the judgment by the National and State Houses of Assembly Election Tribunal in Asaba delivered on July 24, which declared Ndudi Elumelu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as winner of the last election for Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency of Delta State.

It was gathered that the Court, in two judgments on Thursday, declared Ngozi Okolie of the Labour Party (LP) as the winner of the February 25th election.

READ MORE: Court Sacks Labour Party Lawmaker Of Eti-Osa Fed. Const., Orders INEC To Do Supplementary Polls In 32 Polling Units

INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that the court criticized the tribunal for voiding Okolies election and proceeded to dismiss the petition filed by Elumelu before the trial tribunal on which the voided judgment was given.

The Court of Appeal agreed with the lawyer of the Labour Party, Mahmud Magaji (SAN), that contrary to the finding of the tribunal, Okolie was duly nominated and sponsored by his party and that he resigned his appointment as a Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Delta State Government as required by the Constitution.
The Delta State Police Command has apprehended a woman for allegedly killing her husband in Mosogar Community, Ethiope West Local Government Area of the state.

According to Daily Post, a reliable source, who did not want his name mentioned, said that the elder brother of the deceased reported the matter on Tuesday at the Mosogar Police Station.

The source identified the deceased as Jakpor Efemini, adding that he was aged 32.

He added that the incident occurred on Tuesday at about 1:20 pm following a misunderstanding between the deceased and his wife.

My younger brothers wife (name withheld) held and drew the testicles of her husband, Efemini, aged 32 while they were fighting in Mosogar.

READ ALSO: 24-Year-Old Housewife Murders Four-Day-Old Stepson With Insecticide In Bauchi

In the process, my brother slumped and was rushed to the hospital where he was later certified dead.

The corpse has been deposited at a mortuary in Mosogar, the source quoted the deceaseds brother as saying.

Meanwhile, the suspect who was reported to have escaped to an unknown destination after committing the crime, has been nabbed by the police and is currently undergoing interrogation.

The spokesman of the command, DSP Bright Edafe, confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Warri, on Wednesday.

Edafe stated that the lady pulled the testicles of the deceased during a quarrel.

She did not cut the testicles; she drew it, and you know that part is delicate.

The man died in the process and the suspect has been arrested, Edafe said.
The New Generation Leaders (NGL) in Bayelsa State, on Wednesday, warned Governor Douye Diri and his Chief of Staff, Peter Akpe, against involving the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and its General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, in the State politics.

Precious Odede, coordinator of NGL in Yenagoa Local Government Area, alleged that Diri and his team were planning to visit the General Overseer and solicit his support for the polls scheduled for November 11.

Speaking via a statement on Wednesday, Odede stated that Akpe was slated to lead Diri to Adeboye and beg him to prevail on the First Lady, Remi Tinubu to support his re-election.

Odede who posited that the plot would collapse like a pack of cards, recalled how Diri treated Tinubu with disdain in 2022 when the First Lady, who was then campaigning for the election of her husband, visited Bayelsa to commiserate with victims of the flood disaster in the State.

READ ALSO: DSS Should Arrest Peter Obi, Question His Desperation, Violence  Lauretta Onochie

According to him, Diri locked Remi out of the Government House in Yenagoa and refused to accord the courtesy of receiving her.

His words, I have on good authority plans by the Diri government to solicit Pa Adeboyes support.

We understand Peter Akpe, Chief of Staff to the governor is trying to broker a meeting between Governor Diri and Pa Adeboye in Lagos. It is expected that Pa Adeboye will in turn prevail on the first lady, H.E Senator Remi Tinubu who is also an RCCG pastor to support Diri on sentimental grounds.

Unfortunately, our very dear First Lady will not give in to that desperate plot. She remembers too well how Governor Diri locked her out of Creek Haven Gates last year.

It is also important to note that Pa Adeboye is a father to all and RCCG is a church that isnt leaning to any political party.

We urge the Bayelsa State government to save tax payers monies, shelve the Lagos trip and focus on the task of governance.
AUBURN  Roger Conner wanted to fight in the Vietnam War, but was rejected. That's why he'll be volunteering this weekend at a tribute to those who did serve.

Conner and other volunteers gathered for orientation Wednesday evening at Casey Park, where The Wall That Heals will be on display through Sunday afternoon. The traveling three-quarters-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial honors the more than 3 million Americans who served in the armed forces during the war, and bears the names of the 58,281 men and women who died during it. The memorial was originally scheduled to come to Falcon Park, but was moved to nearby Casey Park in a last-minute change.

Conner told The Citizen he signed up for the U.S. Air Force so he could serve in the war, but didn't pass the physical.

"I was refused for service, and I owe it to whoever served in my place," said Conner, who drove 20 miles to volunteer at the traveling memorial.

Eric Nobel, who is retired from 22 years of service in the U.S. Army and Navy, also attended the volunteer orientation on Wednesday.

"I'm just here to support and show respect to those who served in Vietnam," he said.

Kent Rice of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, which runs the wall, told The Citizen shortly after the orientation started that he counted 114 volunteers.

Vietnam vet to perform in Auburn during Wall That Heals visit The Wall That Heals will return to Cayuga County this weekend, and with it will come a one-man performance by a Vietnam combat journalist and 

In front of the mobile education center that accompanies The Wall That Heals, memorial fund employee Cathy Miller assured volunteers that she would not be quizzing them after the hour-long orientation. She shared what made Vietnam different from previous wars, as well as items displayed at the education center. She told the volunteers it's important to honor those who served in the war.

"We, like so many, believe we all have two death dates: the day you die and the day you are forgotten. And it is one of your missions to make sure our Vietnam veterans never experience their second death," she said.

Members of Boy Scout Troop 58, of Fleming, were also at the orientation. Fred Norton, assistant scoutmaster for the troop and veteran of Operation Desert Storm, said he felt those in the Vietnam War were mistreated upon their return, as the war was unpopular among many Americans at the time.

"These veterans deserve all the respect in the world. On the wall or not on the wall, they all deserve their respect. They weren't given their respect when they came home," he said.

Matthew Norton, 14, Fred's son and a member of the troop, said he wanted to volunteer to talk to veterans who fought in the war and to "help out in the community."

The memorial previously visited Cayuga County in 1999, at Emerson Park in Owasco, and in 2017, at Dana L. West Junior-Senior High School in Port Byron. Admission is free and open to the public.

Gallery: The Wall That Heals on display at Casey Park in Auburn
The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, on Tuesday, arraigned Obakin Ajibola before Justice Ladiran Akintola of the Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan on a four-count bordering on alleged theft of N251,685,000 belonging to a firm, Lee Fakino Nigeria Limited where the accused had also been a director.

According to a statement issued by the Head of Media and Publicity of the anti-graft agency, Wilson Uwujaren, the defendant was said to have committed the alleged offence in Ibadan around December 2022.

The defendant, who was said to be one of the two directors of the company and signatory to the companys account, allegedly withdrew the money from the account without authorisation and consent of the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Akindele Fajemiyo, who is also a signatory to the account.

READ ALSO: EFCC Arrests Five Suspects For Using Forged Letter Heads Of NSA, AGF For Employment Scam

Obakin was alleged to have removed the telephone numbers and email address of the MD/CEO of the company from the bank details of Lee Fakino Nigeria Limited, through which notification alerts of transactions were received to enable him to keep track of the account.

The statement partly reads, Obakin, afterwards withdrew the said sum from the account of the firm, which was money paid for works executed by Lee Fakino Nigeria Limited for the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture between December 22, 2022, and March 9, 2023, without any notification received by Fajemiyo.

Upon arraignment, Obakin pleaded not guilty to the charges filed against him by the EFCC.

In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, Oyelakin Oyediran asked the court for a trial date and prayed the court to remand the defendant to the Correctional facility pending the determination of the case.

Counsel to the defendant, Ibrahim Lawal, urged the court to admit his client to bail.

Justice Ladiran Akintola admitted the defendant to bail in the sum of N50 million and two sureties, preferably the wife and younger brother to the defendant, in like sum.

Furthermore, The sureties are to swear an affidavit of means, deposit their National Identification Slip with the court and provide the court with adequate residential addresses.

The court equally ordered that the defendant provide the court with his National Identification Slip and residential address.

The matter was adjourned till October 23, 2023, for further hearing.
Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, says President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fully committed to fixing the challenges in Nigerias education sector.

Mamman, represented by Rakiya Ilyasu, a director at the ministry of education, spoke on Wednesday in Abuja at a symposium aimed to boost open science awareness among primary stakeholders, university leaders, librarians and directors of Information Communications Technology.

Speaking on the theme Advancing Open Science and Collaboration: The Role of Stakeholders, Mamman said: Higher education is an education designed to produce manpower for the social, economic and technological development of the country.

It is however, unfortunate that our higher education sub-sector is plagued with many challenges such as inadequate funding, corruption, inadequate infrastructural facilities, shortage of academic staff, strike actions, brain-drain, poor research, weak governance and insecurity, among others.

You will agree with me that, the higher education landscape in Nigeria requires a total overhaul so that it can effectively put Nigeria universities and other levels of tertiary institutions at par with others around the globe.

The current administration under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, fully understands the enormity of challenges of Nigerias higher education and fully prepared to confront them headlong.

It is against this backdrop that Mr President has promised to improve the education budget to 25 percent.

We need to understand that before we can harness our human resources, we need to be sure of what we need to do to fill in the gaps that have, over the years, inexplicably pulled us back.

We need to know the extent at which we have met contemporary demands of tertiary education globally and if it is not sufficient, how to address them.

I passionately appeal to the roadmap committee of the Vice-Chancellor of Nigerian Universities to provide the committee with quality memorandum of how our education sub-sector can be competitive in all ramifications.

READ ALSO: Nigeriansll See Difference When Our Tenure Ends  Education Minister, Tahir Mamman

Yakubu Ochefu, Secretary-General of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVCNU) who was represented by Abdullahi Musa, Vice-Chancellor of Kaduna State University (KASU), said the symposium would help to uncover innovative ways towards research development in educational institutions.

On his part, Omo Oaiya, chief strategy officer of the West and Central African Research Education Network (WACREN), said the symposium would be of immense benefit to the country.

Nigeria can benefit from this open science in the production of research by the different groups. This will create conversation towards resolving problems associated with research programmes.

Stakeholders will come up with the kind of roadmap that will describe the work to deliver the goals in terms of producing community-driven infrastructure.

Though the government needs to help, but also, the community can do a little bit more with the support of WACREN.

It will further improve efforts of stakeholders to take all of the ideas to campus level and connect them with their communities, Oaiya said.

Nigerias public universities have seen repeated disruptions over the years owing to striking lecturers protesting multiple grievances including funding deficits, poor conditions of service, and infrastructural decay.

Academic staff in public universities embarked on their 16th strike in 23 years which lasted for eight months in 2022.

In recent weeks, federal varsities have been raising their fees over what stakeholders describe as a sustainability crisis.

This has caused a public outcry and student protests across campuses nationwide.

Among the varsities that have raised their fees are the University of Lagos (UNILAG), the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) in Borno, the University of Jos (UNIJOS), and the University of Benin (UNIBEN) in Edo.

Others are Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) in Bauchi, Obafemi Awolowo University (AOU) in Osun, and Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUS).
The Nigeria Police Force, Zone 17 Akure, Ondo State has arrested one Yusuf Anas for allegedly parading himself as a police officer.

He was arrested after buying a mobile phone with a fake bank transfer at a shop, dressed in a police uniform.

According to the Public Relations Officer of the zone, Mr Akeem Adeoye, the suspect claimed to have been enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force as a constable in 2016 and served in Sokoto and Lagos States, before he was declared a deserter and subsequently dismissed.

READ ALSO: Ogun Assembly Accuses Police Of Conniving With Land Grabbers

Adeoye said, On the 8th of May 2023, the suspect who was still parading himself as an officer, dressed in uniform went to purchase a Techno-Spark10 handset valued at N102,000 from a phone shop. After collecting the said phone he generated a fake bank transfer to the seller.

The crime was later reported via a petition to the office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 17, and the suspect was subsequently arrested through viable intelligence gathering. The suspect, in the course of interrogation, confessed to having committed the crime.

The spokesperson said the suspect would be charged in court and prosecuted accordingly.
The Spokesperson of the Nigerian Police Force, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has faulted young people who allow themselves to be extorted by police officers.

An X user had alerted Adejobi of the alarming rate at which police officers extort Nigerians.

Uniform shouldnt be a symbol of war to citizens, your officers are criminals, the way extort young guys instead of politicians is too much. You know about this, you see it and hear it everyday. We have families, we have parents.

READ ALSO: Delta Police Arrest Woman For Allegedly Pulling Her Husbands Testicles Till He Died

Reacting to the post, Adejobi wondered why people with legitimate jobs would allow themselves to be extorted.

Why do the young ones pay them? Someone who claims he doesnt have work, hes suffering, yet he pays 500k or 1m naira etc, how come? I guess they are birds of the same feather. If you are genuine, you earn your income from your eork place, legit money, i dont think you would allow someone or some people to rob you of it. No way. My take, he replied.

See post below:
The House of Representatives, on Wednesday, disclosed that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) lied to the citizens with the allegation that lawmakers got N100 million each as palliative from the Federal Government.

Information Nigeria reports that on Tuesday, assistant secretary-general of NLC, Christopher Onyeka, said members of the National Assembly received over N100 million each as palliative to cushion the effect of the petrol subsidy removal, while poor Nigerians are given rice.

However, reacting via a statement, Akin Rotimi, spokesperson of the House, described Onyekas claim as baseless and devoid of any factual accuracy.

READ ALSO: God Designed Tinubus Tribunal Verdict, Nobody Can Overturn It  Tallen

Transparency and truth in public discourse are necessary for a functioning democracy. While we doubt that Mr. Onyeka was actually conveying the official position of the NLC on this claim, it is nonetheless important to correct such misinformation, the statement read.

While maintaining that Onyeka lied and that his statement was malicious, irresponsible and in bad faith, Rotimi added that the secretary-general misrepresented the facts in a bid to lend credence to otherwise valid demands of the NLC while seeking to denigrate the National Assembly and incite the public against the institution.

The legislator further demanded that the congress immediately retract the statement, tender an apology to the National Assembly andbbecome a partner with them rather than being an adversary.
A Senior Advocate Of Nigeria (SAN), Mba Ukweni has begged Nigerians against castigating and intimidating members of the judiciary.

Addressing newsmen in Calabar on Thursday, the lawyer noted that the judiciary has had a lot of rough times, and the public needs to be patient with them.

On the outcome of the 2023 Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPT) which affirmed the victory of President Bola Tinubu at the polls, Ukweni said that the judges gave their judgment and made their positions based on the evidence placed before them and the law, adding that those not satisfied have the opportunity to make their grievances known at the Supreme Court.

He however acknowledged the limitation of human beings, saying only God is absolutely error-free.

READ MORE: Tribunal Must Come Clean About Tinubus Imprint On Judgment  LP

I dont like a situation where the judiciary is castigated to the point of intimidation due to their work. The judiciary has had a lot of rough times in this country.

There has been the issue of undue interference with the judiciary, an arm of government that is supposed to be independent from the other arms and dispassionate.

Judges are not infallible. It is only God who is. So, the public should be a little patient with the judiciary, he said.
Government anti-narcotics operatives have arrested two Nigerian nationals and seized at least P6.2 million worth of heroin in a buy-bust operation at a shopping mall in Imus City, Cavite, in the Philippines.

Police Region 4A identified the suspects as Enuka John Chukwuemeka and Christopher Nwabufo, both residents of Golden Acres Village, Las Pinas City.

Police said the suspects were arrested on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, after they sold 40 grams of heroin worth P240,000 to a poseur buyer at the main entrance of a shopping mall in Barangay (village) Tanzang Luma 5 at around 4:05 p.m.

READ ALSO: Two Arrested As Police Intercepts N13m Worth Of Illicit Drugs In Lagos

During routine frisking following the arrest, law enforcers reportedly found another kilo of heroin worth P6,000,000 and 15 grams of marijuana with an estimated value of P1,800 in the possession of the suspects.

Authorities are investigating the source of the illegal drugs.

The operatives also seized two mobile phones from the suspects, which will be subjected to digital forensic examinations to determine records of drug transactions.

Chukwuemeka and Nwabufo face charges for violation of Section 5 in relation to Section 26 paragraph B (Attempt or Conspiracy to Sell Dangerous Drugs) and Section 11 (Possession of Dangerous Drugs), Article II of Republic Act (RA) 9165 otherwise known as The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

The operation was conducted by the PDEA, Philippine National Police (PNP), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
Former Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Garba Shehu has criticized past military governor of old Kaduna State, Abubakar Dangiwa Umar of being a beneficiary of government funds.

Shehu in a statement released on Wednesday said Umar, while in power bought his underwear from money meant for the masses.

It was gathered that Umar, in an interview with Sunday Sun, accused Buhari of being aware of fraud perpetrated during his administration.

The former presidential aide in his reaction said Buhari made many decisions during his eight years in office, some of which might have been wrong, but his intentions were always good.

Shehu said despite the achievements, Buharis government was criticized by many.

The statement reads: There has not been a single area that had not been touched by the Buhari government. We have seen massive positive changes in the last eight years but as they say, the one who is pretending to be asleep is harder to wake up than the one who is actually sleeping.

Bullies who attacked governments and something dropped will continue to antagonize Buhari borne of anger from lost opportunities. A certain Buhari critic who served as a military governor in one of the Northern states, even his underwear was bought from government coffers.

READ MORE: I Rescued Nigeria From Corruption, Economy Wouldve Collapsed  Buhari

When they came in they freed thieves, robbers and receivers of stolen goods and even gave them a working capital!

Within a few weeks, crime returned to Kaduna, and yes, the other places and he has the effrontery to speak as he did. This society has no use for such squalid nonsense!

How many of these people do you think were happy when President Buhari said no more free money?

Buhari said money in National Security Agencies is for security. Lazy men and women who cant work cannot just walk in and walk out of that place with bags stuffed with money in a free-for-all.

These ones have nothing to teach anyone. President Tinubu, a wise politician will equally see through their masquerade.

Muhammadu has done his part and left. History will judge him, and fairly I think.
People shopping for Black Friday deals at the King of Prussia Mall on Friday, Nov. 25, 2022. Read more

King of Prussia Mall recently added five new stores to its roster of retailers, just in time for the holiday shopping season.

The news comes as large retailers have recently closed their Philadelphia stores and some malls have been struggling.

This spring, Target closed its 12th and Chestnut Street location. Marshalls is closing its second location in Philadelphia this year by the end 2023, and PREIT, the largest mall owner in Pennsylvania, faces almost $1 billion in debt.

Despite this recent downturn for brick-and-mortar retail in Philadelphia, King of Prussia Mall has been busy. The mall, which is one of the largest in the nation, is home to over 450 stores. In 2018, Simon Property Group Inc., the real estate group that owns the mall, said it would invest millions to upgrade parts of the aging building. Last month, Eataly, the Italian food hall, announced it would open a location at the mall in 2025.

Advertisement

Details of the new store openings:

Brilliant Earth

Brilliant Earth, a jewelry store founded in 2005, sells lab-grown diamonds as well as their line of Beyond Conflict Free diamonds, which the company touts have responsible origins. Many young couples are opting for lab-grown diamonds, as they weigh the cost of an engagement ring with a mortgage or other life expenses. This is the second location in the Philadelphia area for the company, which already has a store in Rittenhouse Square on Walnut Street.

The store opened in late August and is located on the upper level of the mall, next to Warby Parker.

 610-702-9225 brilliantearth.com  Daily, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Versace

Founded in 1978 in Milan, the iconic Italian luxury apparel brand is now open at King of Prussia. Versace, which uses the head of Medusa as its logo, sells apparel, accessories, and handbags. This is the only Versace store in the Philadelphia region.

The store opened on Aug. 26 and is located on the upper level, next to Givenchy.

 610-541-2390 versace.com  Monday to Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Canada Goose

Canada Goose, the luxury performance apparel brand, is known for its signature coats designed to withstand extreme cold. The company, founded in 1957 in Toronto, Canada, has grown to over 50 store locations. The King of Prussia location is the companys fifth outpost on the East Coast, and part of Canada Gooses efforts to more than double their store count by the end of 2028.

The 3,000 square-foot store opened on Sept. 9, and is located on the upper level, near the North Gulph Road entrance.

 610-871-8755 canadagoose.com  Monday to Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Face Foundrie

Face Foundrie is a facial bar that offers facials, eyebrow care, and scalp massages. The company has 30 locations throughout the country, but the King of Prussia store is the second in Pennsylvania, following an opening in the Lehigh Valley.

The 1,275-square-foot store opened on Aug. 25 and is located on the mid-level, across from Buffalo Wild Wings.

 855-959-3223 facefoundrie.com  Monday to Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Inspiration Co.

The Inspiration Co., a jewelry company, is known for its bracelets engraved with inspirational messages. The company started in a garage in Florida in 2017 and has expanded to over 50 locations nationwide. The King of Prussia location is the companys first store in the state.

The store opened on Sept. 8, and is located on the mid-level, across from Kay Jewelers.

inspirationco.com  Monday to Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Members gathered during an opening ceremony for the start of the National Black MBA Association job fair on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, at the Convention Center in Philadelphia. The convention and job fair brings together local and national companies looking to hire for remote, local, and relocation positions. Read more

Welcome to the land of opportunity.

Speaking to a crowd of eager job seekers, Paula Fontana, interim president of the National Black MBA Association, opened the organizations career expo, part of the organizations annual conference, which runs through Sept. 16 at the Convention Center.

More than 300 companies and organizations were gathered in Halls E and D to meet potential hires, including pharmaceutical giants Lilly and Novo Nordisk, Bank of America, American Airlines, Bimbo Bakeries USA, and Campbell Soup Co. The event is held annually at a city throughout the country, and is expected to bring 10,000 people to Philadelphia this week.

When you look at the numbers, there arent enough people who look like us in the C-suite level at Fortune 500 companies, Fortune 100 companies, said Shawn Graham, chief financial officer and interim CEO for the association.

Advertisement

The organization, which operates as a nonprofit, has been in existence since its first conference in 1970 when students of the University of Chicago brought people together to address issues facing Black MBA students. Since then, it has been on a mission to create opportunities for Black people who have been underrepresented as students, entrepreneurs, and professionals.

Our mission is to lead in the creation of educational wealth-building and growth opportunities for those historically underrepresented throughout their careers, said Graham.

At the conference in Philadelphia, people can attend workshops, networking sessions, and participate in a pitch competition where people can win cash prizes for their business ideas.

Black students represented on average less than 10% of those enrolled in an MBA program in 2020, according to the Wall Street Journal. And in June, the Supreme Court overturned a policy to end race-based admissions in colleges.

The reversal of affirmative action at the collegiate level is going to have a trickle-down effect on the corporate level, said Graham.

Investing in careers

On Thursday, people looking to network and interview for potential jobs huddled around the entrance of the job expo before it officially opened at 9 a.m. Many were wearing business jackets and had resumes in hand. Some people looking for jobs had come from Arizona, North Carolina, and New York.

Tre Coles, associate director of student diversity recruitment at the University of Pittsburgh Katz Graduate School of Business, accompanied 10 MBA students to look for opportunities. Last year, students from the program traveled to the convention, which was held in Atlanta, and he says its been a helpful way of getting students positions. He was also happy to be in Philadelphia, and hoped he might be able to catch the Eagles game that evening.

Amari Vann traveled to the conference from Houston. At about 10 a.m., she was standing in line at the American Airlines booth, waiting for a chance to find out about potential opportunities. Vann, who is graduating in the spring from Texas Southern University, says she decided to attend the convention because she had heard great things about the opportunities it could provide.

Its worth it. I think it was a great investment for my career, she said.

Attracting talent

American was looking to hire for their MBA leadership pipeline program in commercial or financial strategy, said Grace Hwang, manager of campus recruiting for the company. The positions are mostly based out of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where the company is headquartered.

Hwang says American is always thinking about what makes a position attractive to a potential hire.

Every year were reevaluating how to be the most competitive in the market, beyond just like compensation and benefits, she said. We are really looking into how to enhance the experience for our interns and full-time employees.

Across the room, Campbell Soup Co. representatives were conducting short interviews at high-top tables. Some people had preregistered for interviews but others showed up looking to see if the company had interesting jobs for them.

Campbell, which is operating two days remote and three days in-office at their corporate headquarters in Camden, was looking to hire for positions including supply chain, marketing, and finance. Being flexible about in-person work has been important for the company, and the hybrid schedule has worked well, said Maria Gamble, director of talent experience and early career.

Were finding that that combination of having that opportunity to collaborate in person and have the flexibility to work from home has been a really great combination for us, she said.

Graham says a new generation in the workforce doesnt want to be in the office every day, and employers are adjusting accordingly.

Theyre offering more in terms of a hybrid experience, or 100% remote experience, or offering additional perks. If you are able to maintain a young person for more than two years, then that speaks volumes, she said.

Employees are no longer working at the same company for decades, and then retiring like they used to, she says.

Those days are pretty much gone, Graham acknowledged.

Young people are also looking for more purpose-driven jobs, she says.

For now, the association is at work, ensuring people have access to their next career opportunity.

We have an obligation to continue to provide those opportunities and to provide access to these students where they may not have had access historically, said Graham.
David Wilcox Executive editor Follow David Wilcox Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

The last time the people rehabilitating the Auburn Schine Theater spoke publicly about the project, they said they hoped to reopen the art deco theater around the 85th anniversary of its 1938 opening.

That anniversary is Friday, Sept. 15  and the theater appears no closer to reopening then than it did when Bowers Development provided that date to Auburn City Council at a presentation in June 2022.

The city hopes to receive another update soon from Bowers, whose East Syracuse office is the registered address for the theater's owner, Schines Theater LLC. Jennifer Haines, director of Auburn's Office of Planning and Economic Development, told The Citizen on Tuesday that she has requested another presentation on the Schine from Bowers to City Council.

"We're ready to put them on the agenda whenever they can," she said. "I expect council will want some discussion on the Schine within the next month. Our first hope is it's from the LLC themselves."

During the June 2022 presentation, the developer's president, Bryan Bowers, told council he'd like to come back that October or November.

"I think there's going to be a lot of progress by that point, and we hope to share a lot more information," he said.

Since then, Haines said, the city has met with Bowers once, privately. That fall, he told officials he had lost financing for the theater's rehabilitation due to COVID-19, and was working to replace it. Haines recommended a local bank afterward, she continued. In June of this year she received a phone call from a member of Bowers' team, who said they were still working on financing.

Bowers and Bowers Development Vice President Michael Licata did not respond to multiple requests for comment by The Citizen.

The Schine rehabilitation project, which Bowers has budgeted at $6 million, remains eligible for a total of $2.2 million in state funding, Haines said: a $1.2 million grant through the Regional Economic Development Council, and a $1 million Restore New York grant awarded to the city on the theater's behalf. Bowers also received $800,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds from the city to remediate its hazardous materials. That work was completed in January 2018, shortly after Bowers agreed to purchase the Schine from the Cayuga County Arts Council.

Asked whether the city is worried about the lack of progress on the Schine after allocating $800,000 to it, Haines noted that the remediation part of the project is complete.

"The point of (allocating the funds) was to make the building ready for redevelopment," she said. "That is still our hope  that redevelopment moves forward in a timely fashion."

Nor is the city worried about the theater's marquee, which Bowers said would be removed and rehabilitated in fall 2020. The developer then said that work would take place in fall 2022. As it continues to deteriorate, Haines said the city does have its eye on the structure. But she noted that Bowers has been quick to address any potential safety risks to the public, such as broken windows.

"We continue to expect and anticipate that (the marquee) is the next step for the project," Haines said.

Meanwhile, Schines Theater LLC continues to owe the city taxes on the South Street theater. It owes $12,966.42 since its last payment in January 2022, Treasurer Robert Gauthier told The Citizen.

The state Historic Preservation Office, which must approve any work on the theater, told The Citizen on Tuesday that the only work it has approved since 2017 was the attachment of a banner in 2021.

Bowers Development has said that once rehabilitated, the Schine will be able to host events ranging from live music and theater to weddings and conventions.

The developer briefly advertised leasing opportunities at the theater on commercial real estate sites like Loopnet and Showcase this spring, but the listings have since been removed.

Inside the Schine: How the Auburn theater's prospective new owner will restore it The effort to restore the Auburn Schine Theater may have more momentum behind it now than ever before.

Inside the Schine: Auburn theater's sustainability is a $6 million question Twenty years ago in January, the Cayuga County Arts Council purchased the Auburn Schine Theater in order to restore it.

Gallery: The Auburn Schine Theater turns 85
Police on the scene at Marshall and York streets where four people were shot including a PECO employee, 14 evidence markers on the street, Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023 Read more

Philadelphia police are searching for multiple shooters who wounded four people, including a Peco employee, in a shooting Wednesday night in North Philadelphia.

The shooting happened shortly after 10 p.m. on the 600 block of West York Street. One victim was found at the scene and taken to Temple University Hospital. Three more victims were dropped off outside Temple Hospital by private vehicles.

The victims include a 33-year-old man who was shot twice in the left shoulder, a 17-year-old boy struck in both thighs, a 37-year-old man shot in the rib cage, and the Peco employee, a 34-year-old man who was shot twice in the buttocks, police said.

All four victims were in stable condition, said Capt. James Kearney, head of the departments nonfatal shootings unit.

Around 10 p.m. Wednesday, the Peco employee, who was not identified, was working to repair a cross-arm that holds electrical wires on a pole near Marshall and York Streets when a stray bullet struck him, said Tom Brubaker, a Peco spokesperson.

The Peco worker was alert and conscious after the shooting, Brubaker said. He was released from the hospital overnight.

Police did not immediately know the motive for the gun violence or if any of the victims were targeted, said Kearney. Police were canvassing the area for video footage of the shooting, he said.
Superintendent Katrina McCombs greets students during a school attendance rally at H.B. Wilson School in Camden, NJ on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. Students heard the Sixers Stixers play, met Sixers player Danuel House Jr. and received Sixers giveaways. Read more

Camden public school students will now be starting the school day with a new pledge: to attend school regularly.

Superintendent Katrina McCombs said the daily pledge is a basic but necessary campaign in a school system plagued for years by poor attendance and failing test scores. She hopes to boost daily attendance to 90%, up from the 2021-22 school years rate of 81%.

Its pretty simple  if our students arent in school, theyre not going to be able to excel, she said.

McCombs launched the district-wide attendance campaign at a pep rally Wednesday at the H.B. Wilson Family School with hundreds of screaming students packed in the auditorium. She asked students, teachers and parents to support the Attend today, Achieve tomorrow campaign.

For the 2021-2022 school year, about 67% of Camdens 6,900 traditional school students were chronically absent, according to the latest annual New Jersey School Performance Report. The state average among the states more than 600 districts is 18.1%.

Absenteeism was highest among preschoolers, kindergartners, and high school freshmen, the latest available state report found. The state took over the district in 2013 after years of poor student performance, which includes attendance measures.

Advertisement

Camden was among the last districts in the region to fully reopen its schools after the pandemic and has struggled to get students back in school, McCombs said. Some students have expressed difficulty sitting in class for a full day after remote learning.

We know we have much more work to do, she said.

As part of the district-wide attendance campaign, students signed an attendance pledge that will be posted on bulletin boards and recited daily during homeroom, the superintendent said. There will be incentives during the year to encourage good attendance, she said.

Eighth grade honor student JaSool Clark, 13, plans to again repeat his excellent attendance streak.

I come to school most of the time, he said. I only dont come when Im sick.

Samya Pagan, 13, an eighth-grader at H.B. Wilson, said she plans to have perfect attendance. She said she missed a few days last year, mainly because she was exposed to others who tested positive for COVID-19.

I didnt get to get perfect attendance but Im going to get it this year, Pagan, an aspiring cosmetologist entrepreneur, said with a big smile. I love school!

 READ MORE: COVID crushed us: Chronic absenteeism plagued N.J. schools during pandemic

Attendance officer Pamela Clark said students may miss school for numerous reasons. They may be homeless or displaced, lack transportation, uniforms or clean clothing, or their parents may need day care before or after school. Some students have their own children and have difficulty with child care, she said.

After a student has five unexcused absences, Clark calls the parents. She makes a home visit after 10 days to try to learn why the student is absent and offer resources such as uniform or laundry vouchers to get students back in school.

Most of the the time, parents are then compliant, Clark said. Every parents story is different.

H.B. Wilson Principal Nicole Harrigan welcomed the attendance campaign for her school, which has about 500 K-8 students. Before the pandemic, average daily attendance in Camden, a state-run school system, was about 92%.

The kids need to be cheered on, said Harrigan. Its been a struggle to get kids excited to be back in school.

McCombs and school officials were joined at the rally by 76ers forward Danuel House Jr. and team mascot Franklin, who ran around the auditorium, zipping down aisles and whipping the students into a frenzy. A drum line marched to the stage. One girl was so excited that she began to cry.

 READ MORE: Danuel House Jr. offers support for James Harden at Sixers community event: I respect any decision he does

House urged the students to apply the same standards he uses in his NBA career to their education: discipline, dedication, patience, and work ethic. Many students and teachers wore 76ers jerseys and waved handmade posters.

You have to get up early and get here to school, House said. He later tossed free T-shirts and helped distribute gift cards to purchase school supplies.
Parents and advocates say that students at Overbrook Educational Center, the Philadelphia School District's school for visually impaired children, are often late to school because of irregular bus service. Read more

The Philadelphia School District has systemically failed to provide safe, reliable transportation to its students attending the public school for blind children, parents and advocates say.

That is: Over the past several years, the buses and vans that bring children to the Overbrook Educational Center in West Philadelphia are often late, and frequently lack safety provisions mandated by the students federally mandated individual education plans.

Just ask Monique Dickens, whose visually impaired daughter has coped with transportation problems for as long as shes attended Overbrook Educational Center: rides that dont show up or come an hour late, vans that break down, a drop-off that was completely missed.

And Ellis Hamiel, whose daughter needed stitches after her bus driver slammed on the brakes, catapulting her forward until she struck her head on a sharp object. The little girl, who is blind, was not belted in her seat, though her special-education plan spells out she should be at all times.

Advertisement

Plus, Hamiel said, the bus was late. All the time.

According to school records kept through March for the 2022-23 term, its 13 buses arrived late anywhere from one to 50 times, and by as much as 3 hours, 10 minutes.

Cara McClellan, director of the Advocacy for Racial and Civil Justice Clinic at the University of Pennsylvanias law school, represents Overbrook Educational Center parents; she first reached out to the school district in May, underscoring the districts systemic failure to provide OEC students with adequate transportation  and not just because of chronically late buses and vans that rob children of instructional time.

Buses, McClellan wrote, should have a harness to secure students during rides, but often do not, or they are not used. Additionally, buses are required to have an attendant to help students board, disembark, and buckle in. But this requirement is rarely satisfied, and some buses have never had a bus attendant.

McClellan also flagged a lack of communication  bus drivers or school district personnel often fail to tell parents when buses are running late, often making parents miss work.

SDPs systemic failure to provide OEC students with adequate transportation continues to impact students ability to attain a free and appropriate public education, as required by law, McClellan wrote.

The parents and advocates asked for stronger systems to ensure safety, plus periodic audits.

District officials acknowledged the parents concerns, meeting with McClellan and promising some fixes.

But four months later, McClellan said not much has changed.

Theres no indication that they have taken seriously how urgent this is, said McClellan. This is dangerous, it needs to be addressed.

Theres a national shortage of school bus drivers and other school workers  Philadelphia has struggled so much with filling driver positions and having consistent on-time buses that it now pays some parents whose children are eligible for bus service to drive their children to school instead  but the OEC problems arent explained away by the labor issues, McClellan said: If you have a driver, then theres someone to put on a seat belt. If you have a bus, the seat belts should work.

Labor issues are separate from seat-belting students and addressing their IEP requirements, she said.

The issue is especially pressing for Hamiel, whose visually impaired daughter required a trip to the hospital last spring after her bus ride. Hamiel first learned of the incident when he received a photo of his daughter sporting a deep gash on the bus.

She wasnt strapped in, said Hamiel. The aide said, The straps havent worked all year.

Eventually, the child required stitches for her wound. The ride and its aftermath frightened the girl, Hamiel said.

Shed tell me, I dont want to ride the bus anymore, said Hamiel.

Both Hamiel and Dickens are frustrated by how transportation affects their childrens education.

Hamiel worked at OEC as a climate staffer, and often had to pick up his children and others stranded by buses in school vans well after classes began.

My kids didnt get there until hours after school started sometimes, said Hamiel. I would call my wife and say, Where are the kids at?

OECs principal would also sometimes hop in a school van to pick students up, Hamiel and Dickens said.

Monique Braxton, a district spokesperson, said representatives of the districts transportation services department have met with representatives of the Penn law clinic and OECs former principal to address the safety concerns expressed.

Safety measures have been enhanced, Braxton said  including professional development training for bus chauffeurs or drivers and attendants such as CPR, securing wheelchairs, the use of specialized safety equipment, fire and life safety and evacuating students in emergency situations.

But McClellan said theres no evidence that the trainings have addressed the issues.

Doing a one-off training isnt enough to actually ensure that theres actually an aide on the bus to ensure basic safety, said McClellan.

Though its just a few weeks into a new school year, parents are already reporting late pickups and missed instructional time, said McClellan.
Carl June is splitting a $3 million Breakthrough Prize for his cancer research at the University of Pennsylvania. Read more

University of Pennsylvania cancer scientist Carl June is sharing a $3 million Breakthrough Prize for discovering how to attack cancer by harnessing the patients immune system, award sponsors announced Thursday.

Versions of the genetic engineering technique that he pioneered 13 years ago at Penn, nicknamed CAR-T, have now been used to treat more than 20,000 patients with leukemia and other deadly blood cancers, with success rates ranging from 50% to 90%.

June is splitting the award with Michel Sadelain, who developed a similar approach at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.

The pair will be honored at an April 13 ceremony in Los Angeles along with the winners of four other Breakthrough Prizes, annual awards given in the sciences and math by a group of prominent tech-industry titans.

Advertisement

In an interview, June said he appreciated the prize  the most lucrative of many he has won  yet is even more enthusiastic about what it represents.

In the mid-1990s, he and Sadelain were among a handful of scientists trying to enhance the power of patients immune-system agents called T-cells (the T in the abbreviation CAR-T).

Once their work started to show promise, hundreds of academic laboratories and companies jumped into the fray. Junes lab developed the treatment that became the Novartis drug Kymriah, approved by the FDA in 2017, and five other CAR-T drugs have come on the market since then.

To me, thats the most rewarding thing, to be able to see something go global like this, and to see so many people benefit, he said.

From submarines to HIV

June, who came to Penn in 1999, is now among many trying to engineer these T-cells to fight other kinds of cancer, the solid tumors that account for most cases of the disease. He also is studying whether the concept might work against noncancerous diseases, among them heart failure and autoimmune conditions such as lupus.

To tackle those challenges, June is trying to marry the CAR-T approach with another hot technology to emerge recently from Penn: the messenger RNA molecules that form the basis of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines against COVID-19. Among his partners on that research is a past winner of the Breakthrough Prize, Penn mRNA scientist Drew Weissman.

But if not for a series of fortuitous events dating back to the Vietnam War, June might never have become a cancer pioneer. In 1971, he was planning to enroll at Stanford University, but instead he was drafted and sent to the U.S. Naval Academy.

I thought I was going to be on submarines, he said.

Yet the war had ended by the time June graduated from Annapolis. Needing physicians, the Navy paid for his medical school at Baylor College of Medicine, encouraging him to focus on malaria and other infectious diseases. That expertise eventually led to his first attempts at engineering T-cells in the mid-1990s  not to fight cancer, but HIV.

These early tailored T-cells were ineffective against HIV, but June and his colleagues discovered that they nevertheless had a useful property: they persisted in patients bodies for years. With additional tweaks, these early efforts paved the way for future generations of CAR-T cells that eventually would prove potent against cancer.

A clue from Carl Junes daughter

Heres how it works: A patients T-cells are removed from the body, genetically engineered to act as customized cancer-fighters, then reinfused into the body.

The first successful test came in 2010, 11 years after June came to Penn, on two adult cancer patients whose disease had not responded to traditional treatments.

Both had chronic lymphocytic leukemia, a type of cancer that affects another agent of the immune system called B-cells. So in treating the two men with CAR-T, June and his colleagues were tweaking a healthy arm of the immune system, T-cells, to attack another that was riddled with cancer.

Two years later, at nearby Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, they used the approach to treat 6-year-old Emily Whitehead, who had a different type of leukemia. She almost did not survive the treatment, as it stimulated an overreaction by her immune system, with a dangerously high fever and elevated levels of an inflammatory signal called IL-6.

But once again, Junes path to success as a cancer pioneer was marked by serendipity.

By coincidence, Junes own daughter had a form of pediatric arthritis that caused her to have elevated levels of IL-6, the same inflammatory molecule that was overtaking Whiteheads immune system.

June knew the FDA had just approved a new drug to treat that problem in arthritis patients. Might it help Whitehead, too? He called up the physicians who were taking care of the 6-year-old in CHOPs intensive care unit, to ask if they would give her the drug.

They said I was a cowboy for suggesting that, he recalled in a 2018 TEDMED talk.

But they did, and Whitehead got better. And this fall, she enrolled as an undergraduate at the place where Carl June developed her treatment: the University of Pennsylvania.

Its really completed the circle, he said.

Penn scientists have won a Breakthrough Prize on three previous occasions. Weissman, the mRNA scientist, split his prize with Katalin Kariko in 2022. Virginia M.-Y. Lee won a 2020 Breakthrough Prize for her research on Alzheimers and other neurodegenerative diseases. Charles Kane and Eugene Mele won the prize in physics the year before that, honored for their study of high-tech materials called topological insulators.

Yuri Milner, one of the prize sponsors, also has a Penn connection. The prominent tech investor attended Penns Wharton School from 1990 to 1992.

He and his wife, Julia, established the Breakthrough Prize in 2012, along with Google cofounder Sergey Brin; Facebook cofounder Mark Zuckerberg and his wife, physician-philanthropist Priscilla Chan; and 23andMe founder Anne Wojcicki.

 READ MORE: Want to share some thoughts about what you just read? Please fill out this survey.
Alliance Cancer Specialists alleged in a federal lawsuit that losing privileges at Jefferson's Torresdale Hospital will irreparably harm them. The practice based in Bensalem has asked a federal judge to block Jefferson from taking that action. Read more

A federal judge is weighing whether to temporarily block Thomas Jefferson University from revoking the ability of five oncologists working outside of its system to admit and treat patients at Jeffersons Frankford, Torresdale, and Bucks County Hospitals.

During a four-hour court session Wednesday, a lawyer for the Alliance Cancer Specialists oncologists who stand to lose their privileges told U.S. District Judge Kai N. Scott that Jeffersons decision to exclusively use its own Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center oncologists at those hospitals violates federal antitrust law and Pennsylvania contract law.

Its all about money, said Matthew J. Modafferi, the lawyer for the doctors, who works in the New York office of Frier Levitt.

Jefferson, however, says the decision to use its own cancer doctors was part of an effort to maintain the best care for patients.

Advertisement

The Alliance Cancer doctors are asking the court to block Jeffersons action, due to take effect Saturday. Scott said she expects to make a preliminary ruling Friday.

 READ MORE: What do you think about our Eds and Meds content? Please share your thoughts in this brief survey.

Allen Terzian, president of Alliance Cancer Specialists and founder of the cancer program at Torresdale Hospital, testified that losing privileges at Torresdale  where most of his patients go  would effectively put him out of business.

I dont know how to practice oncology without hospital privileges, he said in court.

Jefferson says it is offering the Alliance doctors limited access to the hospitals as specialists in internal medicine.

The business backdrop

Jefferson acquired the three hospitals in question, which had been owned by Aria until 2016. That was part of Jeffersons expansion from three hospitals to 18 from 2015 through 2021 under former CEO Stephen K. Klasko. After losing money through the pandemic, Jefferson is now trying to find ways to make its collection of hospitals work financially.

One way large health systems can bolster their bottom lines: Keeping cancer patients in house, instead of allowing emergency room doctors and other doctors to refer them to outside groups like Alliance Cancer.

Alliance has at least five affiliated practices, with a total of 36 oncologists. It is the largest oncology group in Southeastern Pennsylvania not employed by a health system. Alliance is part of US Oncology Network, a national management company owned by McKesson Corp., a distributor of pharmaceuticals. McKessons business includes chemotherapy infusions and other drugs used in cancer treatment.

Most of the Alliance doctors have privileges at other community hospitals in the region, including Nazareth, Grand View, Doylestown, Holy Redeemer, Chestnut Hill, Riddle and Crozer-Chester, that Jefferson does not own.

In cancer care, independent doctors and health systems fiercely compete for infusion business.

What the judge has to decide

In deciding whether to grant the temporary restraining order, Scott has to decide whether Alliance will suffer irreparable harm and how likely it is that Alliance would ultimately prevail in its legal case.

Terzian testified that without privileges at Torresdale, the hospital central to the community it serves, his division of Alliance wont be able to hire new oncologists.

One of his colleagues, Anjana Ranganathan, said she was worried that primary care doctors would no longer refer patients to her if she didnt have oncology privileges at the Jefferson hospitals. This could hurt her reputation and her patients care, because she wont be able to fully attend to their needs when they are hospitalized.

I cant be swayed by things that seem sympathetic, Scott said after hearing from Alliance doctors about the feared impact on their practices and patients. I have to make a legal decision.

Alliance also is asking Scott to find that Jeffersons behavior is anticompetitive and violates antitrust laws. On this point, the judge noted too little information was provided about each systems market share.

Jefferson has experience fighting antitrust allegations. During a trial in 2020, the Federal Trade Commission failed to prove its allegations that Jeffersons acquisition of Einstein Healthcare Network was anticompetitive and needed to be blocked. The federal judge ruled that eliminating Einstein as an independent organization would not hurt competition because the region has so many health systems.

William L. Roberts, a lawyer representing Jefferson, criticized Alliances limited definition of the geographic market in question.

He argued Alliance was ignoring other competitors in cancer care, such as Fox Chase Cancer Center, St. Mary Medical Center, and Nazareth Hospital.

Its too narrow to look at ACS market alone, said Roberts, who is based in Ropes & Gray LLPs Boston office.
An Upper Merion Police offficer talks to the driver of this car who became trapped by Floyd's floodwater at an underpass on South Gulph Road near Route 202 on Sept. 16, 1999. Read more

As it drove by the East Coast while staying well out to sea, the once-potent Hurricane Lee limited its impact to days of rip currents and high seas, another installment in a quite remarkable 2023 Atlantic tropical storm season.

Although this has been one of the more active  and puzzling  seasons in the period of record, the U.S. Atlantic Coast has been spared a direct hit.

Whats more, neither the Philadelphia region nor most of the eastern United States has been pestered by inland flooding from any of the 13 named storms, including the five hurricanes, that have formed in the Atlantic Basin, which includes the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.

Recall that in the 2020 and 2021 seasons, the Philly area endured significant impact from six tropical remnants, culminating in the destructive rains of Ida.

 READ MORE: The 2020 and 2021 seasons may have set records for tropical-storm remnants affecting Philly

Advertisement

Meteorologists caution that the 2023 season has a ways to go, and record-warm sea-surface temperatures persist in the tropical storm spawning regions. Were only halfway home, said Matt Rosencrans, the lead hurricane forecaster at NOAAs Climate Prediction Center. Thats almost literally true: On average, half of all named storms during the June 1-Nov. 30 season have occurred from Sept. 16 onward.

But outside of extreme northern Florida and nearby areas affected by Idalia in August, so far, so lucky.

Pacific enigma

Despite the warm waters in the Atlantic  fuel for hurricanes  in their preseason outlook U.S. hurricane forecasters held their fire on calling for an above-normal season. On average, 14 named storms form in the basin, those with winds of 39 mph; seven hurricanes, with top winds of 74 mph or more; and three major hurricanes, with winds of at least 111 mph.

The reason for their reluctance: The waters over vast expanses of the tropical Pacific also were becoming anomalously warm, the sign of a burgeoning El Nino event. On Monday, those waters were approaching 3 degrees Fahrenheit above normal, according to the climate center. Typically, interacting with the overlying atmosphere, El Nino generates potent west-to-east upper-air winds that can shear off Atlantic storms before they can mature into hurricanes.

 READ MORE: In the pre-season outlooks, forecasters hedged on hurricane numbers, with good reason.

I dont really see El Nino having much of an impact on vertical wind shear as of yet, said Philip Klotzbach, hurricane specialist at Colorado State University. In fact, Klotzbach and Rosencrans said this week that the shear remains below average.

So far at least, the Atlantic warmth appears to be dominating.

Atlantic steam bath

Atlantic sea-surface temperatures in the hurricane-spawning grounds are running as much as 5.5 degrees Fahrenheit above long-term averages. That is just ridiculous for a tropical ocean, said Klotzbach.

Behind the surge is the planets rising temperature and  perhaps surprisingly  so is cleaner air, hurricane specialists say. Disentangling the contributions of each is a subject of ongoing research, said Rosencrans.

Tougher pollution standards in Europe and North American have scrubbed out sun-screening aerosols, he said, allowing more of the suns energy to heat the Atlantic waters.

Clean air fallout?

While the United States experienced a few deadly and destructive hurricanes between 1970 and 1995, including Andrew in 1992, the Atlantic Basin was in a tropical storm lull period with well-below-normal activity.

Amy Clement, a professor and researcher at the University of Miamis School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science, is among those who hold that tougher clean-air standards were significant contributors. They peeled away veils of pollutants that had blunted some of the suns energy.

Industrial pollution was kind of a big foot squashing the activity by putting a shadow over the tropical Atlantic, making it cooler, said Bryan Norcross, the Fox Weather hurricane specialist.

Accident of history

The research into the effects of the cleaner air has called into question a long-standing hypothesis that lull and active hurricane periods alternated in 25- to 40-year cycles, tied to changes in the Atlantic circulation.

Norcross said that he isnt ready to dismiss the hypothesis of cycles driven by the ocean, but it might be a more minor effect than we thought.

One issue in verifying the theory would be the length of the record. NOAA dates the usable hurricane-observation period to 1851, and that would accommodate only two or three complete lull-active cycles that each would take 50 to 80 years to play out.

Other factors might have been in play in hurricane variability, said Norcross, such as volcanic dust.

What to expect

Anything.

Hurricane and tropical storm numbers have varied from year to year, and their impact even more so. Once formed, hurricanes behave more or less like lottery balls bobbing in the water, making it all but impossible to predict landfalls in a given season.

For example, a total of five hurricanes made landfall in Florida in 2004 and 2005, and then not another one for 12 years, despite a sequence of very active seasons.

For all the increased storm traffic, the numbers of U.S. land-falling hurricanes have decreased, according to the National Hurricane Center, with only three in 2021 and 2022, and one so far this year. On average, 19 made U.S. landfall per decade from 1851 to 1950, compared with 14 since 1950.

Similarly, it is not possible to know which storms or their remnants will become dangerous wind and rainmakers inland. The Philadelphia region has experienced horrific damage from tropical storm remnants, with Floyds, in 1999, and Idas, in 2021, among the deadliest.

 READ MORE: A timeline of Ida's destruction in the Philly region

However, despite the brisk overall numbers the last two years, no storms have come close to having an impact around Philly.

That luck may be on thin ice. Clement said she expects the Atlantic to keep warming, perhaps nudging the hurricane development zone northward.

Climate change is expected to add about 7% more to hurricane rainfall totals by the end of the century, said Rosencrans, and rising seas are adding more power to storm-surge waves.

The explosive development in the 70s, 80s, and early 90s occurred when the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts experienced fewer shocks from hurricanes, said Clement, thanks in part to dirtier air.

Now, with so much more in the way on the built-up coasts, that protective veil is not coming back.
WASHINGTON  Hunter Biden was indicted Thursday on federal firearms charges, the latest step in a long-running investigation into the presidents son that puts the case on track toward a possible high-stakes trial as the 2024 election looms.

Biden is accused of lying about his drug use when he bought a firearm in October 2018, a period when he has acknowledged struggling with addiction to crack cocaine, according to the indictment filed in federal court in Delaware by a special counsel overseeing the case.

The indictment comes weeks after the collapse of a plea deal that would have averted a criminal trial and distracting headlines for President Joe Biden.

The court fight doesn't seem likely to end soon. Hunter Biden's defense attorney argues he didn't violate the law and remains protected by an immunity provision that was part of the plea deal. The charges, meanwhile, are rarely filed as stand-alone counts and a federal appeals court recently found the measure he was charged under unconstitutional.

Advertisement

He's also been under investigation for his business dealings, and the special counsel has indicated that tax charges could be filed at some point in Washington or in California, where he lives.

The legal arguing comes as a political fight also plays out. The House has formally opened an impeachment inquiry into the Democratic president, seeking to tie the elder Biden to his son's businesses and divert attention away from former President Donald Trump's own legal woes. Trump's include federal indictments over the handling of classified documents and efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss to Joe Biden.

Republicans have unearthed no significant evidence so far of wrongdoing by the elder Biden, who as vice president spoke often to his son and stopped by a business dinner with his son's associates. The White House maintains Joe Biden was not involved in his son's business affairs.

Republicans had slammed the plea agreement that spared Hunter Biden jail time as a sweetheart deal. Rep. James Comer, the lead Republican pursing the impeachment inquiry, called the gun charges a very small start and pushed for investigation of whether the president was involved in his sons business dealings. Trump also pointed to the lack of connection to Joe Biden in the gun charge plea agreement.

Federal prosecutors investigating Hunter Biden have not indicated Joe Biden is connected over the course of their yearslong probe. The lead prosecutor, Trump-appointed Delaware U.S. Attorney David Weiss, was elevated to special counsel last month, giving him broad authority to investigate and report out his findings.

The three-count indictment he filed Thursday alleges Hunter Biden lied on a form required for every gun purchase when he bought a .38-caliber Colt Cobra Special at a Wilmington, Delaware, gun shop.

He's charged with two counts of making false statements, first for checking a box falsely saying he was not addicted to drugs and second for giving it to the shop for their federally required records. A third count alleges he possessed the gun for about 11 days despite knowing he was a drug user.

The counts are punishable by up to 25 years in prison if convicted, though actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum sentence, a Justice Department statement from Weiss said.

A felony gun charge against Hunter Biden, 53, had previously been part of the plea deal that also included guilty pleas to misdemeanor charges of failing to pay taxes on about $4 million of income in 2017 and 2018.

Under the terms, he would not have pleaded guilty to the gun charge, and prosecutors would have agreed to dismiss it if he stayed out of trouble for two years. But the agreement imploded during a court hearing in July when a judge raised questions about it.

Defense attorney Abbe Lowell argued that part of the deal, which includes immunity provisions against other potential charges, remains in place. He said in a statement that Hunter Biden possessing an unloaded gun for 11 days presented no threat to public safety and slammed 'MAGA Republicans improper and partisan interference in this process, a reference to Trump's Make America Great Again slogan.

Lowell took over after Hunter Biden's previous lawyer in the case, Christopher Clark, withdrew, saying he might be called to testify about the immunity provisions.

Prosecutors maintain the agreement never took effect and is now invalid.

Charges related to gun possession by drug users are rare, especially when not in connection with other crimes. Of all the people sentenced for illegal gun possession in 2021, about 5% were charged due to drug use, according to U.S. Sentencing Commission data.

Most such cases are brought against people accused of some other crime as well, said Adam Winkler, a constitutional law professor and expert in gun policy at the University of California, Los Angeles School of Law. Its relatively rare to prosecute someone for being a substance abuser in possession of firearms, absent other criminal activity, or unusual circumstances, he said.

A federal appeals court recently found the longstanding purchase ban didn't stand up to new standards for gun laws set by the Supreme Court. The Fifth Circuit found the nation's "history and traditions" don't support "disarming a sober citizen based exclusively on his past drug use."

Congressional Republicans, meanwhile, have continued their own investigations into nearly every aspect of Hunter Biden's business dealings as well as the Justice Department's handling of the case.

Two FBI agents who worked on the Hunter Biden case testified separately behind closed doors this week to lawmakers about allegations of political interference in the case. Thomas Sobocinski, the special agent in charge of the Baltimore Field Office of the FBI and an unidentified agent who served as his No. 2, told Congress that Weiss had full authority of the yearslong investigation, rebutting IRS whistleblower testimony that the Justice Department slow-walked the probe.
DERNA, Libya  The death toll in Libyas coastal city of Derna has soared to 11,300 as search efforts continue following a massive flood fed by the breaching of two dams in heavy rains, the Libyan Red Crescent said Thursday.

Marie el-Drese, the aid groups secretary-general, told The Associated Press by phone that a further 10,100 people are reported missing in the Mediterranean city. Health authorities previously put the death toll in Derna at 5,500. The storm also killed about 170 people elsewhere in the country.

The flooding swept away entire families in Derna on Sunday night and exposed vulnerabilities in the oil-rich country that has been mired in conflict since a 2011 uprising that toppled long-ruling dictator Moammar Gadhafi.

Heres a look at where things stand:

What happened in Libya?

Daniel, an unusually strong Mediterranean storm, caused deadly flooding in communities across eastern Libya, but the worst-hit was Derna. As the storm pounded the coast Sunday night, residents said they heard loud explosions when two dams outside the city collapsed. Floodwaters gushed down Wadi Derna, a valley that cuts through the city, crashing through buildings and washing people out to sea.

A U.N. official said Thursday that most casualties could have been avoided.

Advertisement

If there would have been a normal operating meteorological service, they could have issued the warnings, World Meteorological Organization head Petteri Taalas told reporters in Geneva. The emergency management authorities would have been able to carry out the evacuation.

The WMO said earlier this week that the National Meteorological Center issued warnings 72 hours before the flooding, notifying all governmental authorities by email and through media.

Officials in eastern Libya warned the public about the coming storm, and on Saturday, they ordered residents to evacuate coastal areas, fearing a surge from the sea. But there was no warning about the dams collapsing.

How does conflict in Libya affect the disaster?

The startling devastation reflected the storms intensity, but also Libyas vulnerability. Oil-rich Libya has been divided between rival governments for most of the past decade  one in the east, the other in the capital, Tripoli  and one result has been the widespread neglect of infrastructure.

The two dams that collapsed outside Derna were built in the 1970s. A report by a state-run audit agency in 2021 said the dams had not been maintained despite the allocation of more than 2 million euros for that purpose in 2012 and 2013.

Libyas Tripoli-based prime minister, Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah, acknowledged the maintenance issues during a Cabinet meeting Thursday and called on the Public Prosecutor to open an urgent investigation into the dams collapse.

The disaster brought a rare moment of unity, as government agencies across the country rushed to help the affected areas.

While the Tobruk-based government of eastern Libya is leading relief efforts, the Tripoli-based western government allocated the equivalent of $412 million for reconstruction in Derna and other eastern towns, and an armed group in Tripoli sent a convoy with humanitarian aid.

Whats happening now?

Derna has begun burying its dead, mostly in mass graves, said eastern Libyas health minister, Othman Abduljaleel on Thursday.

More than 3,000 bodies were buried by Thursday morning, the minister said, while another 2,000 were still being processed, He said most of the dead were buried in mass graves outside Derna, while others were transferred to nearby towns and cities.

Abduljaleel said rescue teams were still searching wrecked buildings in the city center, and divers were combing the sea off Derna.

Untold numbers could be buried under drifts of mud and debris, including overturned cars and chunks of concrete, that rise up to 4 meters (13 feet) high. Rescuers have struggled to bring in heavy equipment as the floods washed out or blocked roads leading to the area.

Libyas eastern based parliament, The House of Representatives, on Thursday approved an emergency budget of 10 billion Libyan dinars  roughly $2 billion  to address the flooding and help those affected.

How many people have been killed?

As of Thursday, the Libyan Red Crescent said that 11,300 people have been killed, and a further 10,100 are reported missing.

However, local officials suggested that the death toll could be much higher than announced.

In comments to the Saudi-owned Al Arabia television station on Thursday, Derna Mayor Abdel-Moneim al-Ghaithi said the tally could climb to 20,000 given the number of neighborhoods that were washed out.

The storm also killed around 170 people in other parts of eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Um Razaz and Marj, the health minister said.

The dead in eastern Libya included at least 84 Egyptians, whose remains were transferred to their home country on Wednesday. More than 70 came from one village in the southern province of Beni Suef. Libyan media also said dozens of Sudanese migrants were killed in the disaster.

Is help reaching survivors?

The floods have displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, according to the U.N.s International Organization for Migration, and several thousand others were forced to leave their homes in other eastern towns, it said.

The floods damaged or destroyed many access roads to Derna, hampering the arrival of international rescue teams and humanitarian assistance. Local authorities were able to clear some routes, and humanitarian convoys have been able to enter the city over the past couple of days.

The U.N. humanitarian office issued an emergency appeal for $71.4 million to respond to urgent needs of 250,000 Libyans most affected. The office, known as OCHA, estimated that approximately 884,000 people in five provinces live in areas directly affected by the rain and flooding.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said Thursday that it has provided 6,000 body bags to local authorities, as well as medical, food and other supplies distributed to hard-hit communities.

International aid started to arrive earlier this week in Benghazi, 250 kilometers (150 miles) west of Derna. Several countries have sent aid and rescue teams, including neighboring Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia. Italy dispatched a naval vessel on Thursday carrying humanitarian aid and two navy helicopters to be used for search and rescue operations.

President Joe Biden said the United States would send money to relief organizations and coordinate with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support.
POINT PLEASANT BEACH  As the United States races to build offshore wind power projects, transforming coastlines from Maine to South Carolina, much remains unknown about how the facilities could affect the environment.

And that worries some people, particularly those who depend on the sea for their livelihoods.

We dont have the science to know what the impact will be, said Jim Hutchinson, managing editor of The Fisherman magazine in New Jersey. The attitude has been, Build it and well figure it out. 

The wind power industry disputes such claims, citing years of studies.

Advertisement

So far, four offshore wind projects have been approved by the federal government for the U.S. East Coast, according to the American Clean Power Association. Vineyard Wind will place 62 turbines about 15 miles off Marthas Vineyard, generating enough electricity to power 400,000 homes.

South Fork Wind will place 12 turbines in the waters off Long Island, N.Y., about 35 miles east of Montauk Point, to power 70,000 homes. And Ocean Wind I, the first of two Orsted projects in New Jersey, will place 98 turbines about 15 miles off Atlantic City and Ocean City, generating power for 500,000 homes.

Those projects are in addition to the planned Revolution Wind development, about 15 miles southeast of Point Judith, R.I., with 65 turbines powering nearly 250,000 homes. Numerous others have been proposed, and the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management plans to review at least 16 offshore wind projects by 2025.

All this is happening so fast, said Greg Cudnik, a recreational fisherman, bait and tackle shop owner, and party boat captain from Ship Bottom, N.J. Science takes time.

A joint study in March by two federal scientific agencies and the commercial fishing industry documents numerous impacts that offshore wind power projects could have on fish and marine mammals, including noise, vibration, electromagnetic fields, and heat transfer that could alter the environment.

Like numerous existing studies, the report pointed out the complexities of how the structures and cables might interact with marine life. For instance, turbines can attract some fish and repel others.

The March study said large underwater platforms are rapidly colonized by smaller, bottom-dwelling marine life, including shellfish and crabs, which in turn attract larger predators such as black sea bass. At the same time, cloudy water from turbine operations, noise, vibrations, and electromagnetic fields could also make species leave an area.

In most instances, report authors agreed that more studies are needed.

Research in other countries also is also nuanced. Some European studies have shown that crabs and lobster are attracted to harder sea bottoms that support wind turbines. Others, including flatfish and whiting, were shown to leave those areas.

Substantial research already exists. The U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management has posted a half dozen or more studies on its website every year since 2016; in several instances the studies called for further investigation and analysis.

Phil Sgro, a spokesperson for the American Clean Power Association, said the industry believes sufficient scientific studies exist to establish that offshore wind development can be done in a manner that is both economical and environmentally responsible.

Opponents blame ocean floor preparation for causing or contributing to the deaths of 70 whales on the East Coast since December. But three federal agencies say there is no evidence the two are related.

The U.S. fishing industry  both commercial and recreational  has numerous concerns about offshore wind impacting operations in places long available for fishing with minimal interference.

Fishermen fear electromagnetic fields emitted from underwater power cables could deter or harm some marine life. They worry about being able to safely navigate around the turbines, and about being prohibited from productive fishing grounds on which they have relied for generations.

They also worry that unforeseen consequences could reduce catches and trigger government limits on how much can be caught if fish stocks diminish.

And while some companies have voluntarily agreed to compensate fishermen for any economic damage, there is no mandate requiring it. The federal government has endorsed  but not required  compensation to the fishing industry for negative effects from offshore wind. Eleven states are considering setting up a regional fund to administer such payments.

Cudnik, the New Jersey boat captain, worries about prime species being driven away by changes to the ocean floor.

Clams, scallops, flounder, and sand eels are associated with soft sand bottoms, he said. Striped bass, sea bass, mahis  everything eats these eels. When they are in abundance, its awesome fishing. All these offshore wind areas are in that prime habitat.

And Keith Craffey, president of the Baymens Protective Association on New Jerseys Raritan Bay, worries that power cables from a New York project coming ashore in New Jersey will be placed across productive clam beds his members use, potentially rendering the areas off-limits.

If we have to lay off 50 guys because of it, are the offshore wind companies going to pick those 50 guys up? he asked.

On Monday, the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management released an environmental-impact statement for the proposed Empire Wind project in New York, designed to power 700,000 homes. It determined that the project could have moderate to major impacts on commercial fisheries, and minor to moderate impacts for recreational fishing, although minor beneficial effects could also occur from the creation of an artificial reef that will attract some fish.

New Jerseys commercial fishing industry had nearly $690 million in sales in 2020, not including imports, according to the U.S. Commerce Department. The recreational sector generated $724 million in sales that year.

Sgro said the wind power industry has worked closely with the government and the fishing industry to address concerns, including agreeing to avoid placing turbines in the areas most heavily used by anglers. He said a study in the waters off southern New England determined that heat and electromagnetic fields from buried cables will not negatively affect important fish species in the area.

Orsted, the developer behind two of New Jerseys approved projects, said it has worked hard to avoid, minimize, and mitigate negative impacts on fishing.

Orsted says it will compensate boat crews for damage to or loss of gear; pay direct compensation to recreational and commercial vessels adversely impacted, and create a navigational safety fund. It also plans to coordinate with state and federal authorities on seasonal operating restrictions to protect flounder and herring.

U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., a New Jersey Democrat, supports the compensation if the industry experiences economic losses as a result of the transition to offshore wind power.
In a 2-1 ruling Wednesday, Commonwealth Court judges said they had no choice under the law but to grant the citys appeal to prevent a civil suit filed by the parents of Ellen Greenberg  whose 2011 death by 20 stab wounds was ruled homicide, then switched to suicide  from going to trial.

Greenbergs parents, Joshua and Sandra of Harrisburg, filed their 2019 civil suit against the city Medical Examiners Office and Marlon Osbourne, the pathologist who conducted their daughters autopsy, seeking to have the manner of their daughters death changed back to homicide or undetermined.

In approving the citys appeal, the Commonwealth Court did not rule on whether the manner of death could or should be changed, but instead, limited its decision by saying the Greenbergs did not have standing to bring their claim in the first place.

Despite ruling in the citys favor, the judges were explicit in how they viewed authorities handling of the case, writing that ... this court is acutely aware of the deeply flawed investigation of the victims death by the City of Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) detectives, the City of Philadelphia District Attorneys Office (DAO), and the MEO [Medical Examiners Office].

Advertisement

Before delving into their 39-page opinion, which included a review of the investigations, the judges wrote that they did so in the interests of justice and with hopes that equity may one day prevail for the victim and her loved ones.

The Greenbergs said they were disappointed but not surprised.

Im more surprised what they wrote in our favor than they ruled against us totally, Joshua Greenberg said. It seems like somebody has a conscience here. They may have been judges in the judicial sense, and they didnt want to change the law, but they definitely feel something is wrong.

Center City lawyer Joseph Podraza, who represents the Greenbergs, said he was shocked.

As I read all of the opinions, the majority and the dissenting, everyone seems to agree that theres a homicide here, Podraza said. It is very distressing when you hear a court say there is nothing that can be done about it.

Ava Schwemler, spokesperson for the citys Law Department, said the city is pleased with the ruling but disagrees with the courts assertion that the investigations were flawed.

The city defended against this action based purely on the existing law, Schwemler wrote in an email. The police file was not a part of the record in this case.

Greenberg, 27, a first-grade teacher, was found by her fiance, Samuel Goldberg, in the kitchen of their Manayunk apartment with a 10-inch knife lodged in her chest on Jan. 26, 2011.

Investigators on the scene treated her death as a suicide because the apartment door  which Goldberg said he broke down  was locked from the inside, there were no signs of an intruder, and Greenberg had no defensive wounds, police have said.

But the next morning at the autopsy, Osbourne discovered a total of 20 stab wounds to Greenbergs body, including 10 to the back of her neck, and ruled her death a homicide.

Police publicly disputed the findings and Osbourne later changed his ruling to suicide.

The Greenbergs retained numerous forensic experts who have questioned authorities findings, as first detailed in a March 2019 Inquirer report.

In October 2021, Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Judge Glynnis D. Hill ruled that the familys suit could proceed to trial, which the city appealed.

The Commonwealth Court took up the appeal in February 2022, saying it would consider whether the Greenbergs had standing to seek a revision in their daughters manner of death and whether relief was available to compel a revision of the death certificate.

Arguments in the appeal were heard by a panel of three Commonwealth judges  Patricia A. McCullough, Ellen Ceisler, and Lori A. Dumas  in November. Nearly 10 months later, they issued their decision.

Despite that the facts surrounding this matter are extremely disturbing, Dumas and Ceisler ruled that the Greenbergs did not have standing to bring the suit in the first place and therefore, said they didnt need to rule on the second issue.

McCullough wrote the dissenting opinion.

The Greenbergs and Podraza said theyll discuss whether to appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania.

A second civil suit they have filed against members of the Medical Examiners Office, the Police Department, and the DAs Office seeking monetary damages for intentional infliction of emotional distress remains ongoing.

An independent investigation into Greenbergs death also remains ongoing by the Chester County District Attorneys Office, which received the case in August 2022 on a referral because of a conflict of interest because DA Larry Krasner had represented the Greenbergs in their fight for answers in the case while he was in private practice. A spokesperson for that office did not immediately respond to a request for the status of that investigation.

When asked whether the city would reopen the case, given the judges assertions that the initial investigations were flawed, Schwemler said that the city stands by its suicide ruling and that the authority to reopen the case now lies with Chester County.

The city is now, and has always been, deeply sympathetic to Joshua and Sandra Greenbergs pain and deep grief over the loss of their daughter, Schwemler wrote. If Mr. and Mrs. Greenberg have new evidence about their daughters death, we urge them to present it to the investigators in Chester County.
A man was sentenced to prison Thursday for his role in a gunfight that took place outside an Auburn bar last year and seriously injured an employee.

Antoine Clark, 39, of Rochester, was sentenced to 15 years in prison and five years of post-release supervision by Judge Thomas Leone in Cayuga County Court that morning.

One of two people who fired at each other outside the Lavish Lounge Bar & Restaurant at 288 Genesee St. on June 26, 2022, Clark was facing charges of first-degree assault (a class B felony), two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance (a class B felony) and two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon (a class C armed violent felony).

As part of a previous agreement, Clark was sentenced on both weapon possession offenses, with those sentences running concurrently. The sentences satisfy his other charges.

Clark's attorney, Michael Schiano, said before the sentencing that he felt his client had accepted responsibility for his actions. Cayuga County District Attorney Brittany Grome Antonacci said she felt Clark downplayed the seriousness of the charges against him in his presentence investigation report and asked for a lesser sentence, but still acknowledged his responsibility.

The Auburn Police Department said the June 2022 gunfight involved Clark and another man who was later arrested, Zachariah McKoy. A Lavish Lounge employee was shot multiple times, requiring emergency surgery at Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse. The employee, who has later released from the hospital, was not involved in the fighting that led to the shooting, police said.

After Clark pleaded guilty to the weapon possession charges in late June, the Cayuga County District Attorney's Office said he admitted to possessing the 9 mm handgun he fired during the gunfight.

The handgun was recovered from Clark when he was arrested in Auburn by members of the Finger Lakes Drug Task Force on July 25, 2022. Powder and crack cocaine, a cutting agent and more than $2,000 in cash were also found on Clark. His arrest followed an attempt to flee and a brief struggle with members of the task force and Auburn police during a traffic stop on North Seward Avenue.

Also in court

 Curtis E. Johnson, 32, with a previously listed address of 21 Derby Ave., Auburn, was sentenced to one to three years in prison for aggravated family offense, two years in prison followed by three years of post-release supervision for second-degree assault, and 364 days in the Cayuga County Jail for second-degree criminal contempt, with all of those sentences running concurrently. Those sentences satisfied Johnson's other charges, which were another aggravated family offense count, second-degree obstruction of governmental administration, criminal mischief and two counts of resisting arrest.
YEAH Philly co-founder James Aye (left) helps unload pet food for one of the organization's pet food giveaways in 2021. He was arrested Wednesday in court while attempting to advocate for one of the group's youth members. Read more

Youth Empowerment for Advancement Hangout, a West Philadelphia community-based and Black-led nonprofit better known as YEAH Philly, has long been at odds with some juvenile court judges  publicly protesting sentencing and probation practices, and pushing for the right to be in court to support its participants.

On Wednesday, that conflict boiled over when YEAH Philly cofounder James Aye was arrested in a courtroom where he was present on behalf of an 18-year-old probationer  who, according to records reviewed by The Inquirer, had been referred to YEAH Philly by a juvenile probation officer. Aye was detained overnight, according to his organization.

Court records show that he faces misdemeanor charges of obstructing justice, resisting arrest, and disrupting meetings, and a summary defiant trespass charge. The most serious of the charges carries up to two years in prison.

Kendra Van de Water, Ayes cofounder and executive director of YEAH Philly, said the organizations goal is to provide continuous support for clients, in and out of the courtroom.

Advertisement

Its a fight every day, she said, which is why we are hiring our own attorneys now to represent the kids we work with. We have two starting next week.

The juvenile code, she notes, states that proceedings against a person who is 14 or older and charged with a felony-equivalent crime are presumed open to the public, and that the court shall admit persons accompanying a party or a victim for his or her assistance.

Over the summer the group ran a social media campaign, and even a bus shelter ad, calling for more transparency with the tagline Whos watching the juvenile court judges?

In Philadelphia, the courts have typically been closed at the judges discretion. Marty ORourke, a First Judicial District spokesperson, declined to comment on the case or juvenile court practices.

A spokesperson for the Philadelphia District Attorneys Office said the office had no information beyond the arrest report, and so could not comment.

Ayes arrest paperwork said that he was told that as a member of the public, he was not permitted to remain in the room during the hearing until it could be  deemed appropriate by the court. He refused repeated commands to leave and resisted being handcuffed, but went without further incident to a holding cell.

The paperwork noted he had been in courtroom 3E numerous times in previous court listings to speak on behalf of juveniles and was made aware in each listing that, as a member of the public, he could not be present.

According to Van de Water, the hearing officer who ordered Aye out of the room was Caitlin Shuler, who has previously expressed her displeasure with YEAH Philly. Shuler did not respond to a request for comment Thursday.

In a recording of an unrelated court proceeding, reviewed by The Inquirer, a person identified as Shuler refuses to admit the organization to a courtroom, though the juvenile defendant can be heard requesting its presence.

There are conflicting opinions about whether they are actually beneficial for the youth, with the way theyve acted in this courtroom previously. Thats the problem: They dont listen to the court. They dont listen to the courts directive.  With our young people who we expect to listen to the court and abide by the courts order, is that really in his best interest?

In a joint statement Thursday, City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier and state Rep. Rick Krajewski, whose districts encompass YEAH Phillys primary service area, and at-large Councilmember Kendra Brooks said they were disappointed and frustrated by Ayes arrest.

As the victims and perpetrators of gun violence become younger and younger, we need to wrap our arms around our young people  not deny them support when they need it the most, the statement said. The council members urged the courts to develop a transparent and uniform courtroom operating procedure that centers equity and rehabilitation while reducing harm.

Aye, 39, a father of two school-aged children, is a longtime antiviolence worker who helped start YEAH Philly in 2018. The group has an after-school hangout space and runs regular community events to distribute groceries, pet food and assistance with utility bills.

Ayes arrest came as the group was organizing an Oct. 25 town hall meeting for people to share their stories about the impact of juvenile court and to learn about how they can participate in a new court-watching initiative.

Marsha Levick, cofounder of the Juvenile Law Center in Philadelphia, said that she couldnt comment on Ayes arrest specifically  but said she saw a need for more transparency and accountability in the system.

We cannot tolerate the arbitrary exclusion of advocacy and direct service organizations because they have been critical of those elected officials, she said, and we should respect the choices of young people in determining who supports them as they travel through the juvenile justice system.
Claudia Fitzgerald holds a missing person flyer for her son, Alexander, who was last seen in June. Read more

In the last three months, Claudia Fitzgerald has celebrated the arrival of a grandson, even as shes agonized over the disappearance of her own son.

Its been bittersweet, she said.

Claudias adult son, Alexander Fitzgerald, disappeared while she was at the hospital with her daughter, who was giving birth to her first grandchild.

A neighbor told police that on June 21, he spotted Alexander, 33, a Black man who is 6-foot-1 and weighs 180 pounds, walking near the 7200 block of Haverford Avenue in West Philadelphia with two Black men who the neighbor did not recognize.

Advertisement

Alexander hasnt been heard from since.

When I wrote about Alexanders disappearance earlier this summer, I hoped that by the time that column was published, hed have found his way back home.

But then one month turned into two, and now nearly three, with no trace of him while his mother prays for the best  and fears the worst.

Im trying to remain hopeful, she told me when we spoke this week. At this point, I just need to know something.

Fitzgerald said she had been worried the minute she got home that June day and saw that the door of the home they shared was slightly ajar with her sons key still in the lock.

The police officer who came to her home a couple of days later to take the initial report told her that underage children are the priority when it comes to missing person cases. While she could understand that, she told him there were reasons to worry about her grown son.

Alexander was on medication for mental health issues that were first diagnosed as an adolescent. He stuck to a routine that included going to a nearby gym and then coming home, and always picking up his phone when his mother called. And he was trusting, sometimes too trusting of strangers, she said.

When the detective first assigned to the case came up empty, she hired Greg Singleton, a retired Philadelphia homicide detective turned private investigator who has worked his share of missing person cases, and who knew that the disappearances of people of color usually didnt garner much media attention.

White people usually get more media attention, especially a missing white woman. A missing Black man, not so much.

Singleton peppered the area where Alexander Fitzgerald was last seen with missing posters, secured surveillance video, visited and revisited friends and neighbors, and searched for him all over the city.

But hes come up empty.

No sign, no trace, Singleton said.

There have been a few new developments, Singleton told me. Phone records pulled by police, who are still actively investigating the case, showed that his cell phone was last used on June 24, three days after he went missing, somewhere around Belmont Avenue near Fairmount Park.

Police plan to look at his bank records to see if there has been any activity on his accounts. Theyve also entered him into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System database, a federally funded agency that acts as a clearinghouse for information about missing persons.

But Alexanders case remains one of more than 400 active missing person cases in the city this year.

Its not what you want to hear, Singleton said.

Both Singleton and Claudia Fitzgerald are in communication with a new detective whos been assigned to the case, and while shes grateful, she also cant help but wonder if they would be farther along if she felt police had prioritized his disappearance earlier.

Every day I wake up hoping that hell walk up the path, knock on the door, and be back home, she said. Im hopeful every day. I havent lost hope.

In the meantime, the retired School District employee finds solace in spending time with her grandson.

It is unimaginable now, she told me, that she wasnt sure how shed feel about becoming a grandmother. Unimaginable once, too, is how her life could be simultaneously filled with so much joy and such agonizing pain.
Mayor Jim Kenney (right) sits next to Philadelphia City Councilman Curtis Jones in 2019. They differ on a bill to restrict medical marijuana dispensaries from adding recreational weed if it becomes legal. Read more

Mayor Jim Kenney vetoed a bill Thursday that seeks to stymie the future transformation of medical marijuana facilities to recreational sales. Shortly afterward City Council, on its first day back after the summer recess, overturned the veto on a 14-0 vote.

The bill covers the districts of Councilmembers Brian J. ONeill, who represents Far Northeast Philadelphia, and Curtis Jones Jr., who represents parts of West and Northwest Philadelphia.

Although recreational marijuana is illegal in Pennsylvania, people who have a medical license can purchase the drug. There are three medical marijuana distributors in Jones district and two in ONeills district.

Introduced in May, their bill states that medical marijuana dispensaries shall not include a person authorized to dispense marijuana for recreational or other nonmedical purposes.

Advertisement

A Kenney spokesperson said he vetoed the bill because it creates unnecessary complexity by setting special rules that apply only to a sliver of the city. He also argued it is premature, given that recreational weed is still illegal and the restriction could be preempted by future state legislation.

Furthermore, the mayor wants to avoid creating barriers to local businesses who want to expand their current portfolios in the event that the laws change, said Sarah Peterson, a spokesperson for the administration.

Kenney and his administration have frequently opposed zoning overlays that create hyperlocal regulations covering specific Council districts or just particular neighborhoods or commercial corridors within them.

In June Kenney vetoed a bill from Jones that required grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, convenience stores, and other kinds of businesses to win approval from the citys Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) if they tried to open along particular roadways in his district.

But due to the tradition of councilmanic prerogative, in which the rest of the body votes in support of district members on matters of land use and streets in their district, Council overturned Kenneys veto on Thursday. Councilmember Jamie Gauthier was not in attendance.

In response to both mayoral vetoes and general criticism of Councils zoning overlay-happy ways, Jones said that such legislation is simply a means to force businesses to meet with community groups before they move forward with their plans.

Community should have the input on where things go, Jones said. When the medical side came in, they swore up and down that we will not do recreational marijuana. And as soon as the probability of recreation came past, they want to flip the script to be able to be eligible. Well, no.

Council members have long made the novel argument that laws that forbid certain activities are not actually a hard ban because applicants can seek variances or special exceptions from the zoning board. Instead, they see such laws as a way to force meetings with neighborhood groups.

Before ZBA cases reach a hearing, applicants have to meet with the local registered community organization, which is what Council members like Jones say they want because it ensures that the neighborhood gets heard. The community group then supports or opposes the case at the zoning hearing, which can (but does not always) sway the board.

Most interests who have to go before the ZBA, however, say that it is a serious barrier to entry  especially for businesses and organizations that dont have the resources or political connections. Wait times have ballooned since the pandemic  in 2022 lasting as long as six months. That can put small business owners at a particular disadvantage because they dont have the financial resources to pay a mortgage and utilities on an empty storefront while they wait.

Even for large real estate developers, time is money, and the uncertainty adds costs to those trying to do business in the city. The zoning board does rule in favor of applicants more than its counterparts in other jurisdictions but is less likely to if there is opposition from neighborhood groups or Council members.

The Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition has argued that Jones bill would punish medical marijuana operators who have opened in the two Council districts in question and may want to expand if recreational marijuana becomes legal.

The Pa. Cannabis Coalition was thrilled with the mayors decision to veto this bill, which unfairly restricts consumer access to the safe, regulated cannabis market, said Jamie Ware, president of the Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition. We are disappointed that City Council overrode the veto, rather than sitting down with the cannabis industry to determine the best approach for safe access in Philadelphia.

Sean Collins Walsh contributed to this article.
The 76ers are hoping to build an arena on part of the struggling Fashion District shopping mall. Read more

The 76ers development team has for months said its deadline for winning City Council approval to build an arena in Center City is the end of 2023, which would have set up a high-stakes battle over the controversial plan during a lame duck session of Council.

But hours before lawmakers gaveled in their first meeting of the fall session Thursday morning, the team said it was relaxing its timeline.

We have said from the start that we will follow the citys lead and were willing to take the time to get this right. Thats why we announced the project eight years in advance, 76 Devcorp spokesperson Nicole Gainer said in a statement Wednesday night, referring to the teams plan to open a new arena in 2031. While we will continue to work with urgency, we believe that a winter legislative process will likely make the most sense to allow time for the studies to be completed.

 READ MORE: The future of a new Sixers arena shifts to City Hall after a year of contention

Advertisement

The team had initially said it needed Council approval by June 2023, making this the second delay of its timeline.

The move reflects the political realities of pushing through Council a controversial and complicated plan, which would require lawmakers approval for zoning changes, the closure of one block of Filbert Street, and other measures.

Despite the delayed timeline, supporters and opponents of the new arena showed up at City Hall as Council reconvened Thursday, providing a preview of the heated debate to come. Anti-arena activists sought out Council members while a carpenters union truck with a digital billboard touting the plan circled City Hall. City financial reports show that the teams lobbying arm has already spent more than $2 million to influence lawmakers.

The proposal has drawn vocal opposition from Chinatown, which abuts the proposed site; skepticism from Comcast Spectator, the 76ers current landlord at the Wells Fargo Center; and criticism from many urban design experts, who say an arena that is closed many nights of the year could prevent a revitalization of the East Market Street corridor.

The arenas footprint would stretch from Market Street to Filbert Street, between 10th and 11th Streets. Councilmember Mark Squilla, whose 1st District includes the area and who will be the point person on the legislation, has cautioned the team against rushing it through Council.

There appears to be ample support for the project among lawmakers, thanks in no small part to support from powerful labor unions and Black business and religious leaders. But Council members dont want to appear as if they ignored the concerns of Chinatown and other stakeholders by moving too quickly.

Squilla said Thursday that he was pleased to hear the team was changing its timeline.

Weve been telling them that for a long time, he said. I didnt think we had the time to do it.

Although Council wont vote on the arena this fall, Squilla is moving forward with other steps. He has asked the City Planning Commission to initiate the Community Design Review required for large developments.

The review involves gathering nonbinding feedback on the project from a committee of architects and planners and the local registered community organization, in this case the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation.

Squilla said he expects that the arena project will need to go through the review multiple times, given its scope and the likelihood that the design will evolve, but wanted perfunctory, preliminary input at this stage.

The 76ers eight-year timeline

If the 76ers had stuck to their 2023 timeline, this falls Council session would have been a nail-biter. City impact studies are not expected to be released until next month. And Squilla has promised community members that he will allow them 30 days to review drafts of the enabling legislation before he introduces it in Council.

After that, the bills would have proceeded to what likely would have been a blockbuster committee hearing, including public comment from Chinatown advocates who fear that the project would displace their historic community.

The 76ers hope to begin playing in their new arena in 2031, after their current lease with the Wells Fargo Center expires. Its not clear why the team has set such firm advance deadlines, but Gainers statement Wednesday may offer a clue.

The arena would replace part of the Fashion District shopping mall, which has been struggling to stay afloat. If the mall fell into bankruptcy, the 76ers could potentially be prevented from buying the parcel it needs.

Gainers statement noted that 76 Devcorp is committed to doing our part to make sure the mall remains solvent while the process plays out.

In response to a follow-up question, Gainer declined to provide details on how the 76ers plan to help the mall. Since Fashion District Philadelphia is owned by a public company, it is not appropriate for us to comment further at this time, she said. That said, a dark mall in Market East would benefit no one.

Macerich, a California-based real estate investment firm that is the parent company of the Fashion District, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Delaying Council passage into next year means it will be one of the first major issues facing a new generation of City Hall leaders. Mayor Jim Kenney and Council President Darrell L. Clarke are both set to leave office in January.

Kenney, who is term-limited, has been supportive of the 76ers plan, while Clarke, who declined to seek reelection, has not indicated his position.

Kenney is likely to be replaced by Democratic mayoral nominee Cherelle Parker, who has spoken favorably about the project. The race to fill Clarkes seat, meanwhile, may not be decided for months, with several lawmakers, including Squilla, vying for the job.

Mark, Your Words

News of the Sixers delayed timeline took some of the drama out of Thursdays Council meeting, where groups of supporters and detractors packed the chambers.

At 8 a.m., about 30 Chinatown supporters gathered outside City Hall to catch Squilla on his way into the building. With signs reading, Mark, Your Words, the demonstrators said they wanted to hold Squilla accountable for his statement at a meeting in Chinatown last year that legislation for the arena could move forward only with community support. He has since said he was speaking of multiple communities, not only Chinatown.

Im here to remind Mark Squilla he has a responsibility to the people who elected him, said the Rev. Hannah Capaldi of the First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia. The loss of Chinatown will be the legacy he leaves.

The tone was deliberately light, and they caught Squilla on the way into the building as well as when he walked into Council. He cordially answered a series of questions about the process, and the protesters thanked him.

I thought it was nice, Squilla said. They actually used some nice photos. Very passionate, folks that are there that are in opposition. And I think we need to address their concerns during this process. And we will continue to do that.

Outside, a carpenters union truck circled City Hall, displaying signs trumpeting the arena and blaring the song Here Come the Sixers. A dozen or more men dressed in Sixers-blue T-shirts that bore the message Pro Job, Pro Union, Pro Arena attended the meeting but declined to speak with a reporter.

Never dull at City Hall. Looks like the Carpenters have a truck circling the building this morning touting the Sixers arena proposal pic.twitter.com/xQWqgcEUlf  Anna Orso (@anna_orso) September 14, 2023

Lobbying lawmakers and the public

The 76ers have been waging a public and private campaign for more than a year to influence the debate over the arena.

The teams lobbying arm, CBL Real Estate, has reported spending almost $2.3 million from April 2022 through June 2023, according to its most recent public reports with the city. It has hired two high-powered lobbying firms to help make its case, Hazzouri & Associates and Wojdak Government Relations, as well as other well-known Philadelphia political and public relations consultants.

They reported meeting with Kenney, Clarke, Squilla, a half-dozen other Council members, and numerous members of the administration.

But only about $259,000 of the teams reported lobbying expenditures went to direct communications, which refers to outreach to public officials behind closed doors. The teams lobbyists did not report giving any gifts to city officials.

A vast majority of the money went toward influencing public opinion through billboards, social media advertising, and news conferences.

While we await the results of the citys impact studies that are expected to be completed in October, we will make sure people have accurate information on 76 Place, host community meetings, and continue to collect feedback so that we can ensure this project serves our fans, the surrounding community, and the entire city, Gainer said.

Comcast Spectacor, which owns the Wells Fargo Center, reported about $30,000 in lobbying expenses from January to March of 2023 for meetings with Council members about the economic development impact of Wells Fargo Center and stadium complex.

The company did not report any expenses related to the arena in the most recent filing period, which ended in July 2023.

But Spectacor is now reaching out to lawmakers to push back on what it views as inaccurate statements from the 76ers regarding the Wells Fargo Center.
The Wall That Heals, a three-quarters-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, honors the more than 3 million Americans who served in the armed forces during the Vietnam War and lists the names of the 58,281 men and women who died during it. The traveling wall will be at Casey Park in Auburn through Sunday, Sept. 17. It's open 24 hours a day and is free to the public.
The key point that we would say is that electric vehicle fires are not more dangerous than internal combustion engine vehicle fires, said Kuhl. They are different because they need to be addressed differently.



In response, this month IUMI published a best practice guide for transporting electric vehicles on ships with research about EV fires.



There are growing concerns within the shipping community, including marine underwriters, about fires breaking out on car carriers and roros [ships designed to carry wheeled cargo] with the assertion that many of these fires are attributable to electric vehicles, said Lars Lange, IUMI Secretary General in a media release announcing the guide.
We know that local underwriters understand local conditions and are uniquely focused on the needs of local clients, said Stobbs. By establishing a strong underwriting presence in Australia under Rorys [Rory Morisons] leadership, we are well-positioned to serve our clients as part of the domestic market, raise our game, and further Markels international vision.
We are excited to share the results of our in-depth evaluation of the cyclone reinsurance pool. This report underscores our dedication to ensuring an insurance landscape that truly serves the interests of consumers. Said ACIL Chairperson Tyrone Shandiman. The discussions we had with the Assistant Treasurer and members of the Joint Select Committee for Northern Australia were receptive, and we expect they will yield tangible benefits for consumers.
Believe it or not - I know it's probably not a trait that a lot of people associate with the Marine Corps - having empathetic leadership and having the ability to understand people, to influence people and to do things you need them to do when they probably wouldn't want to, he said.
The heart of what we do at icare is to care for the people of NSW. We have implemented this major change to ensure better care and support to injured workers in New South Wales, said CEO and managing director Richard Harding. This new combination of capable, competitive, and innovative providers means workers with physical and psychological injuries will receive more early interventions and tailored support when they need it most.
Negative interactions such as these often taint peoples impressions and, in turn, knowledge of insurance. NAAIA wants more of its independent agents who are deeply ingrained and connected in their communities to be able to tell the story about the new way that insurance is functioning, he added.
New York is sending a 20-person crew to assist with fighting an 86,000-acre wildfire in California.

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the two-week deployment of 10 state Department of Environmental Conservation forest rangers and 10 wildland firefighters on Wednesday. One of the forest rangers will serve as a crew boss.

The wildfire is in the Smith River Complex, an area in northern California near the state's border with Oregon. The fire, which began on Aug. 15 after a lightning strike, is 21% contained.

"DEC forest rangers and other trained wildland firefighters bring a wealth of knowledge to assist our neighbors to the west," DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said. "DEC's wildland firefighters are always prepared to help, serving both on the fire line and behind the scenes as experts in incident command and we wish them a safe and successful assignment in California."

It has been a busy year for DEC's firefighting team. According to Hochul's office, this is the ninth out-of-state deployment this year. Crews have assisted with firefighting efforts in Canada, California, Idaho and Montana. The Canadian wildfires were the source of smoke that drifted into New York this summer.

"Whether it's north of the border to Canada, or across the United States to California, New York always stands at the ready to assist those in need," Hochul said. "While summer rains have kept New York fires at bay, the impacts from this year's wildfire season are like none we've ever seen before. I commend our brave forest rangers for helping New York answer the call for assistance."

When New York sends personnel to help fight out-of-state wildfires, the costs are covered by the U.S. Forest Service or reimbursed by federal and state agencies.

New York has been deploying firefighting crews to other states since 1979.
Fred C. Church Makes Key Personnel Changes to Its Education Team

Chris Duble, Fred C. Church chief executive officer and client executive, has announced his plans to retire at the end of 2024.

Duble began his career in 1976 with Chubb Insurance. Following a decade of service on the carrier side, he joined Fred C. Church, headquartered in Lowell, Mass. In 1994, Duble co-founded Fred C. Churchs Education Practice. He was appointed CEO of the firm in 2015.

Sam Daume, Fred C. Church senior vice president and client executive, will assume the role of education practice leader effective January 1, 2024. Daume joined Fred C. Church in 2009. Daume got his start as an underwriter at Chubb nearly four decades ago. However, most of his career has been spent as a broker.

The Hanover Appoints Seibold and Barrett to Key Specialty Leadership Roles

The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc., headquartered in Worcester, Mass., appointed Stephanie E. Seibold to president of alternative markets and Arthur J. Barrett to president of programs.

Seibold joined The Hanover in 2007 as a middle market underwriter, eventually serving as vice president of underwriting and most recently serving as the chief underwriting officer of specialty property and casualty. She previously served as a commercial underwriter for General Casualty.

Barrett came to The Hanover in 2021 and has served as the companys vice president of underwriting for its programs business. Previously, Barrett held various leadership roles at Chubb within the companys programs and brokerage division, as well as positions at CNA.

Mulick Joins The IMA Group as SVP of Sales

Sara Mulick has been named senior vice president of sales at The IMA Group (IMA), headquartered in Tarrytown, N.Y.

Before joining IMA, Mulick was vice president of enterprise sales for One Call. While there, she held various management positions for more than 17 years.

Topics Leadership Church
A high-profile New York art adviser with outposts in Tribeca and London is accused of withholding millions of dollars worth of artwork and cash from her clients, leaving collectors and galleries to line up in a court case to recover the lost loot.

One example at issue is The Uncle 3, a contemporary painting by Adrian Ghenie. Lisa Schiff brokered a $2.5 million deal for the piece between Sothebys Hong Kong and real estate heiress Candace Carmel Barasch and collector Richard Grossman.

But she never transferred the full amount, her two clients and now former friends say, claiming they only received $450,000, and are owed about $2 million.

In May, Barasch filed separate suits over the proceeds from the painting and millions more Schiff received to buy artwork that was never received. Lawyers in court filings have said that state and federal prosecutors were looking into the allegations.

More than 50 collectors  including Thomas Hagerty of private equity firm Thomas H. Lee Partners  and galleries  such as Sothebys Private Sales department, now claim that Schiff owes them for works worth close to $1 million, court documents show.

To repay any creditors, Schiff appointed a trustee to liquidate at least 800 artworks from her Schiff Fine Art LLC that have a combined market value of $3.9 million.

Some of the most expensive claims are from Hagerty and his wife Jeanne, who accused Schiff of owing them $990,000, and Institute of Contemporary Art Boston trustee Karen Conway and her husband Brian, who filed a claim for not less than $611,500.

Schiff first rose to prominence in 2002 with the opening of SFA, eventually winning over clients such as Leonardo DiCaprio. Schiffs lawyer, John Cahill, declined to comment. Her agency is not contesting the bulk of the lawsuit and instead appointed Douglas J. Pick as trustee to distribute the assets to creditors.

In a June 6 court filing, Cahill said Schiff denied that she was running a Ponzi scheme, but rather expenses and flawed payment practices left the company with more payment obligations than funds.

He said in the filing that the criminal investigations were a result of Schiff self-reporting the matter to the New York County District Attorney.

Officials at the district attorneys office, as well as lawyers for Barasch, didnt return messages seeking comment. Hagerty and Conway also didnt return calls seeking comment.

894 Artworks

In a report last month, Pick said that 894 works currently in Schiffs possession have a combined market value of $3.9 million, according to art appraisal company Winston Art Group. In a separate document, Winston Art Group claimed they are unable to locate an additional 108 works, including those by artists such as Damien Hirst, Richard Prince, and Virgil Abloh, that have a combined market value of $1.1 million.

We want to follow the money, Pick said. Where was it deposited and how was it utilized?

Less than a week after the initial lawsuit was filed, Schiff shut down her office and showroom in Tribeca and an outpost at Londons Cromwell Place.

On May 17, Barasch and her husband Michael filed the second lawsuit against Schiff in state court, alleging that Schiff and SFA Advisory used $2.5 million in funds to spoil themselves with luxury travel, shopping sprees, and the like, according to the lawsuit.

In a phone conversation with Barasch in early May, Schiff admitted that her company dug themselves into a large financial hole that they could not get out of, and considered filing for bankruptcy prior to the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, but did not do so because she was afraid of a criminal investigation, according to Baraschs court filings.

Barasch said in the lawsuit that Schiff would get to know clients and their families, including their taste, character and goals in collecting to help find art that fits these attributes.

In the past several years and continuing to the present, Ms. Schiff has purported to recognize the lack of transparency in the art world, and has professed to strive for this in dealings with her clients, according to the lawsuit. The supposed importance of transparency to Schiff is 180 degrees from her admission to Candace on May 8, 2023, that for years, Schiff and her companies have been engaged in a massive fraud on their clients.

Before opening SFA, Schiff, who has a masters in art history from the University of Miami, worked at auction house Phillips, de Pury & Luxembourg in New York, and directed Edward Tyler Nahem Fine Art gallery in New York. When she opened her exhibition space in Tribeca, the Financial Times called it unprecedented.

Copyright 2023 Bloomberg.

Topics Fraud Claims New York
A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by a former Wilmington police official who accused the police department of engaging in racial discrimination and improperly collecting and using data from seized cellphones, including her own.

Judge Mark Kearney ruled Monday that federal law does not allow Fray Coleman to sue public entities for racial discrimination in connection with an employment contract. Kearney also said Coleman had provided no basis for invalidating a search warrant that police used to seize her phone last year as part of a cold- case murder investigation.

Coleman, who was a master sergeant and in line for promotion to lieutenant, left the department in January after an investigation into statements she made regarding the 2007 murder of a friend of her daughters biological father. According to the lawsuit, Coleman told investigators in 2007 that a man named Ramadan was a suspect in the murder and that she would not be surprised if someone killed him. After Ramadan Dorsey was fatally shot in February 2008, detectives again questioned Coleman, who told them she had no information about his death.

Last September, cold-case investigator Stephen Rizzo reopened the Dorsey case. After interviewing Coleman twice, he told her she had an inconsistent recollection of Dorseys killing. Rizzo allegedly accused Coleman of withholding information because she was among the top candidates for promotion to lieutenant.

Based on information provided by Rizzo, a special investigator with Delaware`s Department of Justice executed a search warrant for Colemans cellphone in December, on the basis that she may have engaged in official misconduct and hindering prosecution. The warrant covered the time between her first interview with Rizzo on Sept. 30, and a second one Oct. 4.

Coleman was placed on administrative duty, but rather than report to her new assignment, she began a previously scheduled vacation two days early, according to court records. Defense attorneys say Coleman did not return from vacation but instead resigned. Coleman claims she was constructively discharged.

Coleman claimed that, while on vacation, she began hearing from several officers about personal information that had been created and stored on her phone. The information included photographs of her nude and wearing lingerie, intimate videos of her with her husband and text messages discussing how she and other black officers were treated worse than white officers.

Law enforcement officials submitted sworn affidavits stating that they were unable to search Colemans phone, meaning they would have been unable to disseminate any personal information extracted from it. Defense attorneys noted that Coleman did not give investigators her passcode and that from the time her phone was seized in December until she filed her lawsuit in April, the technology required to search the phone was unavailable to law enforcement officials.

Coleman, meanwhile, alleged that the police department has a practice of allowing forensic examiners to download the entire contents of cellphones subject to search warrants and allowing the authors of the warrants to conduct fishing expeditions for any damning evidence.

Once the investigator finds useful information outside the scope of the warrant, they apply for an addendum or a new warrant to retrieve the information they already know exists, the lawsuit states.

Coleman also alleged that authorities sought the warrant for her cellphone only because of her race. Her complaint included a laundry list of incidents that she claimed show a pattern and practice of racial discrimination within the department.

The judge noted, however, that a provision of federal civil rights law cited by Coleman does not allow racial discrimination lawsuits against police departments and other municipal agencies. That provision is instead aimed at prohibiting private parties from using race as a basis to refuse to enter into contracts. Kearney also said Coleman had failed to show that the search warrant, or the process to obtain it, was deficient.

The judge gave Coleman until Sept. 28 to file an amended complaint that provides facts that might support a civil rights claim against individuals acting under color of state law.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Legislation Law Enforcement
When Dutch airline KLM launched adverts urging customers to fly responsibly and think about the environmental impact before booking a flight, it said it was showing its commitment to a sustainable future.

But the 2019 campaign sparked criticism and last year environmental activists filed a suit accusing the company of greenwashing, or making misleading environmental claims.

The case filed by Fossil Free Netherlands highlights the dilemma facing airlines as they try to boost growth for shareholders but also convince the public they are taking steps to cut carbon emissions.

Critics say those messages cant be reconciled, and a growing number of lawsuits, consumer complaints, and rulings from advertising regulators are seeking to restrict what sustainability claims airlines should be allowed to make.

The only way to fly responsibly right now is not to fly, said Hiske Arts, who is leading the campaign by Fossil Free Netherlands.

KLM, which is fighting the suit  one of the most prominent among the legal challenges facing airlines, says it intends to be an industry leader in cutting emissions and communicating about sustainability.

We are pulling out all the stops, a spokesperson said.

KLM is due to file its first official response at the Amsterdam district court by Sept. 27. That will be followed by a court hearing on Dec. 6.

In June, European consumer rights body BEUC lodged a complaint at the European Commission against 17 airlines, alleging they use terms such as sustainable, responsible and green deceptively.

The reason we picked airlines is probably because its one of the most emblematic sectors in terms of greenwashing, said campaign leader Dimitri Vergne. He said technologies for low-emission flights either dont exist or are years away from commercialisation.

Business Risk

The stakes are high. KLMs owner, Air France-KLM, said in its 2022 annual report that damage to its environmental reputation was a business risk that could lead to it losing public or political support.

On Sept. 1, the Dutch government said it planned to cap flights at Schiphol Airport, KLMs base, at 9.5% below 2019 levels, primarily to reduce noise pollution, but also in light of goals to cut emissions.

Air France-KLM and other airlines plan to contest the decision at the European level.

Responding to Reuters questions, KLM said aviation was a hard to abate sector in terms of emissions, but that it planned to meet 2030 climate targets by buying more efficient planes and gradually using more biofuel.

KLM says its customers want to fly and helping them do so is the reason it exists. In preliminary hearings, its lawyers argued fly responsibly ads were well-intentioned. The ads suggested customers should consider purchasing carbon offsets or taking the train.

In June, the court ruled the suit could proceed, with a verdict expected in February.

KLM says it has already discontinued 19 communications it says form the core of the Fossil Free suit.

Its fly responsibly web page now re-routes customers to a message that reads: Air travel is currently not sustainable. Check what we are doing to improve.

Hiske Arts of Fossil Free said any airline ads that reference the environment are intended to increase demand for flying by persuading people that flying is not a problem.

Saying one airline is planting trees or that one is less polluting than another is misleading when every flight for years to come will emit carbon dioxide, she said.

You cant say that you are more sustainable if the essence is that you are still very polluting, Arts said.

She said aviation should be treated like the tobacco industry: ads should be banned, and tickets should carry a warning.

Airlines reject comparisons with tobacco, saying flying has clear economic benefits that smoking does not.

Clarity

In Brussels, industry group Airlines for Europe says carriers must be allowed to publicly demonstrate their progress.

Were a little bit in limbo, when it comes to, you know, what can we say? said Deputy Managing Director Laurent Donceel.

European regulators are working on updated rules for all businesses, including a review of law on commercial practices and a new green claims directive.

While advertising authorities have banned some ads, they say airlines should be allowed to discuss improvements in order to prevent greenhushing, or allowing the issue to disappear from discussion.

We need to keep the interest of consumers first, but we need to strike the right balance as well, said Lucas Boudet, director general of the European Advertising Standards Association.

(Reporting by Toby Sterling in Amsterdam and Joanna Plucinska in London; editing by Mark Potter)

Topics Lawsuits Claims Aviation
Markel, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc., announced it is has hired an in-country leader for Australia and will open three new offices there in September 2023.

These offices, in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, will be led by Rory Morison, who has been appointed managing director of Markels Australia operation.

Markel Australia will focus on providing underwriting solutions to businesses that traditionally purchase insurance in the domestic Australian market. This approach will complement existing support through Markels significant London capacity, as well as industry and product specialists from across its wholesale international business in London and Asia.

Morison joins Markel from AXA XL where he has worked since 2002, most recently as head of long-tail lines. He is a proven local leader in casualty and financial lines  a key initial focus area for Markel in Australia  and he combines this with a deep understanding of Lloyds, having spent eight years in the London market.

This will ensure even closer connectivity with the existing underwriting support and capacity from London, Markel said in a statement.

Demand is growing across Australia for specialty commercial insurance, particularly in casualty and financial lines, driven in part by the growth of the digital economy alongside traditional industries, Markel explained.

The company intends to introduce new products to the local market, including its fintech and commtech insurance solutions, designed to protect fast-growing technology businesses from a range of risks such as professional indemnity, general liability, directors and officers (D&O) liability, and cyber. Markel also will continue to support Australian brokers and commercial customers with its broad range of specialist insurance products.

By establishing new offices, assembling an experienced leadership team under Morison, and ramping up its investment in local underwriting talent, Markel said it aims to build on its long-standing commitment to the Australian market.

Having an appropriate on-the-ground presence means that underwriters can respond more quickly and adapt products to onshore clients needs and the nuances of a particular risk environment. This is especially important given the speed at which many businesses operate today.

Australia is the worlds tenth largest insurance market, and its growing. Specialist commercial insurance forms a significant portion of this premium. We know that local underwriters understand local conditions and are uniquely focused on the needs of local clients, commented Christian Stobbs, managing director, Asia Pacific, at Markel.

By establishing a strong underwriting presence in Australia under Rorys leadership, we are well-positioned to serve our clients as part of the domestic market, raise our game, and further Markels international vision, Stobbs said.

Andrew McMellin, managing director of wholesale at Markel, added: Markel has a solid track record of building businesses in international markets, having successfully established onshore operations in Canada, Europe, the Middle East and Asia over the past decade. In each case, we have committed to hiring high-quality talent and empowering them with underwriting and claims authority, underpinned by Markels highly collaborative and entrepreneurial culture.

I am looking forward to leading the Markel team in Australia and expanding our presence in the local market, according to Morison.

We see significant opportunity for Markel within Australia as businesses adjust to the changing landscape, including the rise of the digital economy, increased scrutiny on director liability, and a spate of high-profile cyber breaches. Markels dedication to a strong local presence and on-the-ground capabilities will ensure that we are best placed to support our new and existing Australian brokers and customers, Morison continued.

Topics Talent Australia AXA XL
This edition of International People Moves details appointments at AXA XL and Sompo Internationals AgriSompo.

A summary of these new hires follows here.

AXA XL Promotes Lebas to Head of Mid-Market, APAC & Europe

AXA XL announced the appointment of Laetitia Lebas as head of Mid-Market, APAC & Europe.

In this role, Lebas will lead the implementation of AXA XLs mid-market strategy in Europe, Asia and Australia. She will work in close partnership with AXA XLs regional teams and local leadership, and AXAs local general insurance entities.

Lebas joined AXA France in 2012 as global account manager for AXA Sante Collective. She then became international sales director for AXA Creditor and, later on, regional director, Western Europe and legal representative for Genworth entities in France. She joined the Executive Committee of AXA Partners France in 2017 and was appointed as sales director for Credit Lifestyle Protection and Motor & Banking Assistance.

Our leadership in the large commercial property, casualty and specialty insurance markets is well established. Building on our knowledge of working with large corporates to bring our expertise to larger mid-market clients, in collaboration with other AXA entities, is a clear opportunity, commented Julien Guenot, regional manager, Southern Europe at AXA XL and executive sponsor for the divisions APAC & Europe Mid-Market initiative.

Laetitia is a seasoned insurance professional with a proven track record within AXA. She has the right expertise and experience to successfully collaborate with teams across the company to build out our capabilities and mid-market offering, he added.

***

AgriSompo Intl Taps EMC Res Smith as SVP International Operations Deputy

Sompo International, the global provider of commercial and consumer property and casualty re/insurance, announced that Mondale Smith has joined the companys multinational crop insurance platform, AgriSompo, as senior vice president, international operations deputy.

Smith will report to Marji Guyler-Alaniz, president of AgriSompo International.

In this newly created role, Smith will have oversight of AgriSompos day-to-day international operations, including managing and developing the risk portfolio and agriculture modeling outside of the U.S., with a focus on the European, Asia Pacific and Latin American markets in addition to working closely with the global Sompo International operations team.

Smith joins AgriSompo from EMC Reinsurance Co. where he served as president and COO, managing a diverse portfolio of products and services across 31 countries, generating $180 million annual premium revenue. Before that, he led strategy, operations and risk control services for Berkley Agribusiness and was also with American Family Insurance as a Commercial-Farm/Ranch Loss Control Manager earlier in his career.

Topics Commercial Lines Europe Business Insurance AXA XL
CLAYTON, Mo. (AP)  A Missouri jury has awarded $745 million to the parents of a young woman killed on a sidewalk outside an urgent care center by a driver who huffed nitrous oxide canisters right before the accident.

The verdict was reached Friday in the lawsuit brought by the parents of Marissa Politte, 25, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported. Politte was leaving her workplace at the Ballwin Total Access Urgent Care in St. Louis County on Oct. 18, 2020, when she was struck by an SUV.

The two-week trial focused on whether the company that distributes nitrous oxide under the name Whip-It! conspired with a smoke shop to sell the product to customers they knew intended to illegally inhale the gas to get high.

Police discovered that the 20-year-old driver, Trenton Geiger, had passed out behind the wheel after abusing Whip-It! nitrous oxide. Police found Whip-It! containers they say Geiger threw into the woods. Geiger purchased the canisters at a smoke shop before he struck and killed Politte, according to evidence at the trial.

This is about more than money. My clients would give $750 million to have three minutes with their daughter again, said Johnny M. Simon, attorney for Polittes parents. This is about holding companies that are profiting off selling an addictive inhalant accountable.

Simon said Whip-It! is sold as a food propellant to make things like whipped cream, but evidence at trial showed that a large portion of its business model relies on selling the gas to smoke shops.

The jury found that United Brands Products Design Development, the company that distributes Whip-It!, was 70% liable, the smoke shop was 20% liable and Geiger was 10% liable.

Polittes parents, Karen Chaplin and Jason Politte, both testified about the devastating loss of their daughter, who was a radiologic technologist.

A former United Brands warehouse employee estimated during testimony that three quarters of the company`s product went to smoke shops. Evidence included emails between company staff and smoke shop workers, and the companys marketing campaigns directed at young people in the concert and party scenes. Evidence also included records of past deaths and injuries related to abuse of the product.

Attorneys for United Brands argued that Geiger alone should be responsible for misusing the product and ignoring warning labels advising against inhaling Whip- It!

United Brands is no more responsible for Mr. Geigers illegal impaired driving than Anheuser-Busch would be for a drunk driving accident, they wrote in court documents.

It wasn`t immediately clear if an appeal was planned. Email messages left Monday with United Brands were not immediately returned.

Geiger, now 23, pleaded guilty to second-degree involuntary manslaughter and other crimes in March. He was sentenced to two years in prison as part of a plea deal.

Geiger`s attorney, Thomas Magee, said his client fell into a trap of thinking what he was using was harmless.

For copyright information, check with the distributor of this item, St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Topics Lawsuits Missouri
Former CSAA CEO Troy Joins USAA

USAA has selected former CSAA president and chief executive Tom Troy as its chief transformation officer. He will start Sept. 25 and report to CEO Wayne Peacock. This newly created position will lead USAAs transformation initiatives and corporate development team.

Troys career spans more than 30 years and several major insurance carriers. Prior to CSAA, Troy was an executive vice president at Allstate, where he oversaw a multi-billion portfolio of the insurers non-Allstate brands, including Esurance, Ivantage, Encompass and business insurance. He also previously served in a variety of executive vice president roles at Liberty Mutual and held senior leadership positions with Safeco Insurance.

USAA is making significant investments to transform our capabilities, processes, infrastructure and the way we work to ensure were prepared to meet our members needs today and into the future, said Wayne Peacock, USAA president and CEO. Tom is a proven business leader with a deep family history of military service, enabling him to serve our members with empathy and guide our future-focused initiatives with excellence.

Big I Installs McBride as New Chairman for 2023-24 Term

The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big I) installed Michigans Mike McBride, president of Mason-McBride in Troy, as the 2023-2024 chairman at the recent Big I Fall Leadership Conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

With over 35 years of experience in insurance and financial services, McBride is the former Michigan director on the national association board. He previously served as chair of the Trusted Choice board of directors and, more recently, as its executive committee liaison. He has also been a member of the technical affairs committee. He was elected to the Big I executive committee in 2017.

Along with McBrides installation, Todd Jackson, McGowan Insurance Group, Indianapolis, Ind., was sworn in as Big I chairman-elect, and Lou Moran III, Inter-Agency Insurance Service, Knoxville, Tenn., became vice chair. McBride succeeds chairman John Costello, senior vice president at USI Insurance Services in Rochester, N.Y., who will remain on the Big I executive committee for an additional year as immediate past chair.

Dagostino Named AXA XL Global CUO, Commercial Lines

AXA XL today announced the appointment of Anthony Dagostino to a newly created role of global chief cyber underwriting officer, commercial lines. Dagostino will report to Libby Benet, AXA XLs chief underwriting officer.

Dagostino joins AXA XL from Converge, a cyber insurance and risk management provider which he founded. He brings more than 20 years of cyber insurance experience to this new role and will lead a team tasked with creating product and service solutions for cyber risk transfer for commercial clients of all sizes, establishing a clear risk appetite and globally consistent cyber underwriting guidelines, managing aggregation risk, assisting in the recruitment and development of cyber talent, and developing prevention and recovery services for AXA clients.

Topics Cyber Agencies Commercial Lines Michigan AXA XL
The U.S. agency that enforces workplace discrimination laws said on Wednesday that it had sued Walmart Inc over allegations it fired hourly workers with disabilities who could not pass a computer-based test.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) said that the test, which Walmart began administering nationwide in 2015, had no connection to workers job duties, in a lawsuit filed in federal court in Arkansas.

The commission said Walmart gave newly-hired workers up to 180 days to pass the knowledge assessment, and that they could take it up to three times. But Walmart failed to provide accommodations for the test to workers with disabilities as required by federal law, the EEOC said.

The EEOC filed the lawsuit on behalf of two Arkansas women who said they were fired by Walmart after failing the test. One is deaf and the other has intellectual disabilities, according to the lawsuit.

Randy Hargrove, a spokesman for Bentonville, Arkansas-based Walmart, said the testing program was discontinued several years ago. When it was in use, workers were presented with pop-up notifications advising them of accommodations, he said.

The EEOC has filed a series of lawsuits in recent years accusing Walmart, the largest private U.S. employer, of discriminating against workers and job applicants with disabilities.

The agency last week accused Walmart of failing to provide interpreters for deaf employees, and has filed at least four other lawsuits this year on behalf of individual Walmart employees. Walmart has denied wrongdoing in those cases.

In 2021, a federal jury in Wisconsin awarded $125 million to a former Walmart employee who the EEOC said was fired because she has Downs syndrome. A judge lowered the award to $300,000, the cap on damages under the federal law banning discrimination against workers with disabilities.

Topics Lawsuits Arkansas
If Florida insureds and insurers havent been pummeled enough by rising costs in recent years, they could soon see another factor that could hit them in the pocketbook.

Floridas tough new immigration law that took effect July 1, requiring more verification and documentation by employers and hospitals, reportedly is scaring away thousands of immigrant workers  the bulk of the labor force that has become the norm when Floridians rebuild after a hurricane. The labor shortage could raise construction costs significantly, leading to higher expenses for insurers and higher premiums, larger deductibles and less coverage for some property owners.

The roofing industry is having trouble find workers, yes. The law is having an effect on our ability to man jobs, said Mike Silvers, director of technical services for the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association.

One of the top risk and insurance economists in the U.S. said the law, championed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, is bad policy and will cost insureds and insurers dearly.

Choking off the supply of skilled, experienced immigrant labor is not only counterproductive from an economic perspective  it may also increase property claims severities, said Robert Hartwig, clinical associate professor of finance at the University of South Carolina.

Without enough skilled workers, some storm-damaged properties will have to wait to be repaired, setting off a cascade of loss-adjustment and other expenses.

The longer properties remain exposed to the elements the more theyre likely to deteriorate, Hartwig, director of USCs Center for Risk and Uncertainty Management, told Insurance Journal. Insurers will also have to pay more for temporary living expenses because repairs may take longer.

Longer repair times also could mean more litigation, including bad-faith claims against insurers, which could give new fuel to plaintiffs attorneys  the group that the insurance industry has blamed for back-breaking litigation costs in the last several years.

It is supremely ironic that Florida would seek to arrest and prosecute hard-working disaster recovery laborers whose efforts actually provide significant economic benefit to the state and its residents, while leaving the doors wide open to trial lawyers who last year brought the Florida homeowners insurance market to the brink of collapse, Hartwig added.

The Miami Herald reported on the law and the impending labor shortage earlier this week. Resilience Force, a labor group that advocates for disaster workers, told the Herald that its recent survey of 2,000 workers found that more than half said they dont want to come to Florida, due to the new law. Many said they feared deportation, harassment and arrest.

The law, Senate Bill 1718, approved in May, requires private employers with 25 or more employees to use the federal E-Verify system to check the immigration status of new workers. The law also beefs up penalties for those who avoid using the system and who hire unauthorized immigrants; it forces hospitals to ask patients about immigration status; and makes it a felony to drive an undocumented person into Florida, among other restrictions.

Some Florida construction companies have long been known to hire undocumented workers, and many businesses in the state have looked the other way, especially after a hurricane. Even the U.S. Customs and immigration enforcement agencies have adopted a policy of backing off enforcement actions in disaster zones, the Herald has reported.

Its an open secret in Florida and other parts of the country that a large number of undocumented but often highly experienced workers move from place to place providing rebuilding services, despite the politics of immigration regulation, construction groups and immigration advocates have said.

As climate disasters have become more and more destructive, a workforce has come together that rebuilds after hurricanes, floods and fires, Saket Soni, of the Resilience Force group, notes in the groups YouTube video posted early this year. When they roll into town, everybody breathes a sigh of relief and recovery starts in earnest.

Much of the labor in construction comes through subcontractors, who often contract with other subcontractors or labor suppliers that have a history of skirting immigration laws, or have found ways to cheat the immigration verification system, Silvers said. Silvers, with the Roofing and Sheetmetal Association, said his members have been told that state authorities may not vigorously enforce the new law. But they fear that could lead to confusion and selective enforcement, he noted.

Our members want to hire people legally, but that can be difficult when others supply the workers, Silvers said.

Regardless of enforcement, many migrant workers apparently arent taking their chances in Florida this year. And that could prove to be a big problem in a state prone to storms. The immigrant workforce has become crucial to recovery efforts, which often involve hot, dirty, dangerous work, Hartwig said.

Its clear that with a 2.7% unemployment rate in the Sunshine State, there are few Floridians willing and able to leave their current jobs to toil amid the muck and debris, Hartwig said in an email. This is why the itinerant disaster recovery labor force is so critical to assure a speedy recoveryin Florida and wherever disaster strikes.

He put the Florida immigrant labor law into perspective by comparing it to blocking or placing tariffs on building materials simply because they are made in a non-English speaking country. Florida residents would be screaming if they were unable to get the materials and repairs they need, he argued.

All the insurance money and federal aid in the world will be of no use unless it can be transformed by skilled laborersmany of them immigrantsinto installed walls, electrical wiring, roofs, windows, plumbing, appliances, carpets and everything else it takes to rebuild homes and businesses, he said.

Its not certain at this point how much a labor shortage might add to the cost of rebuilding after Hurricane Idalia, which hit part of Florida Aug. 30, and after Ian, which slammed the state a year ago. But Liberty Mutual Insurance put out a bulletin this year that said labor is a significant factor in rising U.S. premiums, and the construction industry is already short by about 200,000 skilled workers.

Hartwig suggested that Florida should chuck the current law and instead develop an expedited waiver process that would allow needed workers into the state without fear of arrest or deportation.

DeSantis has been criticized by opponents for not taking quick enough action to stem Floridas property insurance crisis and rising premiums, but lauded by others for helping to craft a legislative package last year that is designed to stem excessive claims litigation. His office could not be reached for comment Wednesday for this article.

Top photo: Workers remove large oak tree branches that fell on an Orlando home in Hurricane Ian, in 2022. (Phelan M. Ebenhack via AP)

Topics Florida Property
It is called a "relic," and it's one that Auburn Enlarged City School District Superintendent Jeff Pirozzolo hopes will be eliminated this year.

One of two statewide ballot propositions voters will consider this year is whether to end a debt limit that's in place for Auburn and other small city school districts with less than 125,000 residents.

The debt limit for small city school districts has been in place since 1951. Under the state constitution, the cap is set at 5% of taxable real property. To override that limit, a district would need the support of 60% of local voters and the approval of the state comptroller and Board of Regents.

The constitutionally mandated debt limit does not apply to other school districts, including rural schools and those in larger cities. Generally, the debt limit for these districts is 10% of taxable real property. The cap for other districts is in state law, not the constitution.

Pirozzolo told The Citizen that Auburn and other small city school districts want a level playing field with other school districts across New York.

"Please let us be the same because it really does affect us," he said. "When you're a small city school district and you have eight buildings in your district, that's a lot of capital project work to be done."

The problem with the existing debt limit, Pirozzolo explained, is that it requires small city school districts like Auburn to spread capital projects over a number of years. That can delay needed upgrades to buildings and increase costs.

One example Pirozzolo provided is what happened with a capital project at Auburn Junior High School. Improvements to the school's main office had to be moved to a later phase of the project because of the debt limit.

"Increasing that percentage is really going to help small city school districts be able to do more capital projects and not have to wait a longer period of time for that cost allowance to go down so we're underneath the debt limit," he added.

To amend the constitution, the state Legislature passed bills in consecutive sessions, first in 2022 and then again this year, to allow for the statewide vote. The proposition will appear on the ballot for this year's election. Election Day is Nov. 7.

The legislative sponsors, state Sen. Shelley Mayer and Assemblyman John McDonald, detailed in a memo that the debt limit was "intended to give small city school districts (then subject to constitutional real property tax limits) control over and responsibility for their fiscal affairs." But the aforementioned tax limits were eliminated when voters approved an amendment in 1985.

"Today, however, with the real property tax limits no longer in place, and with the urgent need to improve old and outdated school facilities in small city school districts, it is time to advance a constitutional amendment to align debt capacity among all independent districts," Mayer and McDonald wrote.

The proposed amendment is backed by several advocacy groups. The New York State Educational Conference Board, which consists of the Association of School Business Officials of New York, the Conference of Big 5 School Districts, New York State Council of School Superintendents, New York State PTA, New York State Schools Boards Association, New York State United Teachers and the School Administrators Association of New York State, supports the ballot proposition.

In a statement, the board said the debt limit for small city school districts is "a relic of a time when there were many more disparities in state-prescribed financial practices across types of school districts."

"Differences in debt limits and building aid offsets place small city school districts at a severe disadvantage in maintaining and improving school facilities and in addressing health and safety needs," the board added.

If the constitutional amendment is approved, there is already legislation awaiting Gov. Kathy Hochul's signature to establish a 10% debt limit for small city school districts. The state Legislature passed the bill in June.

There was an attempt in 2003 to pass a constitutional amendment that would've ended the separate debt limit for small city school districts. However, voters rejected the ballot proposal.

Pirozzolo's message for voters is that small city school districts want the "fair, equitable debt limit" that applies to other districts, including the surrounding rural school districts in Cayuga County.

"That's all we're asking for," he said. "We don't want anything more. We just want the same."
The latest eruption of a Hawaii volcano isnt threatening any infrastructure but health officials are warning the public about air-quality hazards from volcanic smog known as vog.

Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, began erupting Sunday. On Monday, scientists downgraded its alert level, saying there was no threat of significant ash emission into the atmosphere outside a limited area within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Later Monday, state health officials said the eruption brought vog to some parts of the Big Island, causing poor air quality.

Volcanic smog, or air pollution, is created by vapor, carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide gas released from Kilauea.

The gases are present in their highest concentrations in the immediate area around the summit crater or vents. But they also combine with other particles to form vog, which can spread across the Big Island and even waft over to the states other islands.

Vog can give healthy people burning eyes, headaches and sore throats. It can send those with asthma or other respiratory problems to the hospital.

The health department`s air quality map Tuesday showed Pahala, downwind of Kilauea`s summit, as unhealthy for sensitive groups.

Big Island Mayor Mitch Roth was driving to that part of the island Tuesday morning for a series of meetings. Residents in Kau, the island`s southern district, are used to dealing with vog, Roth said, but reminded visitors, especially those with breathing issues, to be mindful.

The vog a lot of the time will go around Kau and come up to the Kona side, he said.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Hawaii
Source: Streetwise Reports

September 14, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) This telehealth company has signed a new contract for its remote patient monitoring platform to be used by a leading healthcare company with dozens of locations in eight states.

Telehealth company Reliq Health Technologies Inc. (RHT:TSX.V; RQHTF:OTCQB; A2AJTB:WKN) announced it has signed a new contract for its iUGO platform with a leading U.S. healthcare company with 75 locations in eight states.

The company expects the contract to add more than 25,000 new patients to the platform over the first year of implementation in one state, Kentucky. Plans for the other seven states will be finalized in the new year.

Reliq said the new client has been recognized by Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report as having some of the top long-term care and skilled nursing facilities in the country.

"This is a huge win for Reliq that further reinforces our reputation as the gold standard virtual care solution for patients with chronic conditions," said Reliq Chief Executive Officer Lisa Crossley. "Our client is consistently ranked among the top providers in the U.S. for both short- and long-term inpatient care."

The iUGO platform helps manage diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure, diabetes, hypertension, and others.

Patients get audible reminders to step on a scale, take their blood pressure, or prick their fingers for glucose monitoring. The information is automatically uploaded to the cloud.

Drawing on data from fall detection devices, medication tracking, and vital signs, iUGO flags patients at home or in facilities who need additional monitoring.

The Catalyst: Previous Successes

Crossley said the contract was secured thanks to the company's success with its skilled nursing facility clients in Florida, where it has allowed clients to avoid significant Medicare and Medicaid penalties.

Kentucky, where Reliq will start adding patients first, is a state with high rates of hypertension and diabetes, she said.

"Reliq will be providing Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM), Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM), Chronic Care Management (CCM), Behavioural Health Integration (BHI), and Transitional Care Management (TCM) to patients both in-facility and in the community," Crossley noted.

The company expects to generate US$65 per patient per month at about 70% gross margin, she said.

Company is 'Gathering Momentum'

Reliq had its first profitable quarter during the three months ending March 31 with a gain from operations of CA$731,017 YoY. It also has started scoring larger contracts for iUGO, including one with a U.S. health plan that operates in five states with more than 3,000 doctors and 1 million patients.

It also recently announced it has expanded the platform to cover remote monitoring for pediatric patients with diabetes and other conditions. The company said it expects to add more than 3,000 pediatric patients to iUGO by Q2 2024 through existing contracts with home health agencies in Texas.

The company is gathering "continuing momentum," wrote Maxim analyst Allen Klee, who has rated the stock a Buy with a CA$1.75 per share target price.

"We believe the company has hit an inflection point of accelerating revenue and EBITDA profitability," he wrote. "Tailwinds include a significant number of larger contracts that have been won."

The company will release final financial results for its fiscal year 2023, which ended June 30, next month. Crossley recently told analysts and shareholders that, according to estimates, revenues more than doubled from fiscal year 2022.

iUGO is a "compelling offer for practitioners," Klee wrote. "A typical practice can bring in more than US$1 million in Medicare and Medicaid payments implementing it."

Market Getting 'Significant Boom'

The telehealth market was valued at US$128.12 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow to US$504.24 billion by 2030, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.7%, according to Fortune Business Insights.

"The market is getting a significant boom with the rising start-up funding and launch of products, especially for virtual consultations," the researchers wrote.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill and put many burdens on healthcare workers.

"This has opened new market opportunities for digital health platforms," according to the report.

iUGO Care

Reliq also recently announced a post-discharge program for acute hospitals on iUGO. Called iUGO Care, it supports patients being discharged from an acute care hospital to their homes, inpatient rehabilitation, assisted living, or skilled nursing facilities.

Hospitals can be assessed penalties of up to 3% of total Medicare reimbursement for the following year if they don't meet targets reducing readmissions, which could mean millions of dollars in lost revenue, Reliq said. [OWNERSHIP_CHART-9012]

More than 96% of all hospitals in Florida were assessed financial penalties in 2021 because of the issue. Over 2,300 U.S. hospitals will pay more than US$320 million in such penalties in 2023, according to Kaiser Health News.

Ownership and Share Structure

About 8% of Reliq's shares are owned by insiders, including Crossley, with 1.6% or 3.22 million shares. About 0.3% of the company is owned by institutional investors, including FNB Wealth Management, with 0.01% or 0.03 million shares, according to Reuters.

Other top investors include Eugene Beukman, who owns 0.11% or 0.23 million shares, and Brian Storseth, who owns 0.07% or 0.14 million shares, Reuters said.

Crossley said 91.7% of the company is retail.

The company has 203 million shares outstanding, with about 200 million free-floating. It has a market cap of CA$92.32 million and trades in a 52-week range of CA$0.76 and CA$0.375.

More Info:

This news is published on the Investorideas.com Newswire - a global digital news source for investors and business leaders

Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investing involves risk and possible losses. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Disclosure is posted for each compensated news release, content published /created if required but otherwise the news was not compensated for and was published for the sole interest of our readers and followers. Contact management and IR of each company directly regarding specific questions.

More disclaimer info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp Learn more about publishing your news release and our other news services on the Investorideas.com newswire https://www.investorideas.com/News-Upload/

Global investors must adhere to regulations of each country. Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp

Get Great Trading Ideas and News Alerts

Guest posts and sponsored content - Got $100?

That's all it takes to get an article published on Investor Ideas - Learn More
Here is a selection of people starting new roles with Mortgage Navigators, Bank of Ireland, DP Energy, EssenceMediacom, AIB and Servcentric.

Margaret Barrett has been appointed as managing director at Mortgage Navigators, a specialist mortgage broker service for self-employed contractors, a division of Contracting PLUS. An experienced mortgage advisor and QFA, Margaret previously worked with Bank of Ireland in Cork for seven years. She now heads a team tasked with identifying optimum borrowing solutions for self-employed professionals, buying properties. She holds a Business degree from MTU and a diploma in Financial Advice from UCD, becoming a QFA. She has held senior roles with OSB Group and with Newmarket Motors in Newmarket Co. Cork. She is also volunteer treasurer of Millstreet Presentation national school in Cork.

John Feeney has been appointed to a newly-created role with Bank of Ireland, overseeing its property, project and asset-backed finance activities. He joins from Mizuho Bank, the banking arm of Mizuho Financial Group, where he was head of European banking. John has a wealth of financial services leadership experience in London, Singapore and Tokyo, including senior roles at Lloyds Banking Group, Henderson Global Investors and Bank of America Merrill Lynch. He will now lead Bank of Irelands real estate and project finance teams, as well as Bank of Ireland Finance. John holds an MSc from London School of Economics and is a chartered financial analyst.

Barb Bryden has been appointed as stakeholder, rightsholder, and community liaison manager to the expanding operation in Canada of DP Energy, one of Irelands leading developers of renewable energy projects, headquartered in Buttevant, Co Cork, and operating globally. Barb brings 30 years experience working in the environmental field in both public and private sectors. She has worked with the Government of Nova Scotia as an environmental engineering technologist, as an inspector specialist, and has led the ambient air quality program for the province of Nova Scotia. Barb holds a Masters in Environmental Management and Restoration from Charles Stuart University in Bathurst Australia, as well as Environmental degrees.

Ben Hawley has been promoted to head of strategy with media planning and buying agency EssenceMediacom Ireland. He was previously business director with the agency, working with clients such as Google, Universal and Hayu. Ben joined the firm as a business director in 2021, having previously held roles with Zenith, Mediaworks, Starcom and NewsCorp Australia. He has extensive experience in managing major international brands across the aviation, entertainment, financial services and retail sectors. Ben has been working in a strategy role with Mars for the past two years. Im excited to be part of the transformation that were going through here in Ireland, said Ben.

Read More Cork company founder amongst latest list of tax defaulters

Cathy Bryce, MD of Capital Markets AIB, has been appointed as the first female president of the Banking & Payments Federation Ireland, which has over 125 member institutions and associates. Before joining AIB in 1996, Cathy held roles with Morgan Stanley and ABN AMRO. In 2018, she joined the National Treasury Management Agency as director of the national development finance agency and NewERA, later returning to AIB in 2019. She studied in TCD, INSEAD Business School and Harvard Business School. She sits on the finance committee of TCD and the advisory board of Trinity Business School. She is on the diversity committee for Leinster Rugby.

Brian Roe, CEO with Servecentric, the Irish cloud, data centre and connectivity services provider, has has been appointed as a director of the company. As director and CEO, he will spearh growth and development of the business and shape the overall strategic direction. With over 25 years of IT experience, he has been CEO of Servecentric in 2021, having He joined in 2016 as commercial director. He has helped the company to grow its core data centre colocation services and led the introduction of an Irish-owned, self-service, pay-as-you-go public cloud offering. He has previously held senior roles with Typetec, a managed IT and cyber security services provider.
Planning uncertainty is the greatest challenge facing Ireland's energy infrastructure deficit, with not a single wind farm granted planning permission in the past year, a major energy conference heard on Thursday.

A survey of 200 industry professionals found planning uncertainty, at 48%, is the most significant challenge when addressing the country's energy infrastructure deficit, followed by grid availability at 35%.

Planning was also a key area that needed to be addressed if Ireland was to continue to attract foreign direct investment to the energy sector.

The survey was carried out by business law firm Mason Hayes & Curran at its annual energy conference, The Future of Energy Investment in Ireland, held at the Clayton Hotel, Cork City, in association with the Irish Examiner. Almost all (86%) of the energy executives expect the proposed reforms to Irish planning law to have a positive effect on the sector.

"These results are not surprising as there is a lot of frustration with the current delays in receiving a planning permission that is safe from legal challenge," Jay Sattin, planning and environment partner at Mason Hayes & Curran said.

Eoin Cassidy, partner and Head of Energy Sector, Mason Hayes & Curran; Chelsey Doherty, senior associate energy and construction, Mason Hayes & Curran; and keynote speaker and author of 'Race For Tomorrow' Simon Mundy at the annual Mason Hayes & Curran Energy Conference, The Future of Energy Investment in Ireland in the Clayton Hotel, Cork. Picture: Darragh Kane

Donal OSullivan, Statkraft Irelands vice-president for development and offshore, and one of the panellists at the conference, said planning delays and legal challenges remained a considerable risk to the future development of renewable energy projects.

"If you asked me a year ago I would have pointed to grid rollout infrastructure or auction design as the greatest challenges but we are now at the stage where planning is at such a desperate stage," he said.

"There are a few depressing stats that by the end of September we will be on the first anniversary since An Bord Pleanala granted permission for any wind farm, so no wind farm has been granted planning permission over the last 12 months."

"For our own pipeline at StatKraft, we have two projects, one that has been in the planning process for the past three years and another that was granted planning two years ago that has had a judicial review. I think we are at a stage where delays are getting so acute and elongated that with the upcoming Ress III auction there is a shortage of projects coming through," Mr O'Sullivan said.

The new planning legislation, if enacted in its current form, should result in mandatory timelines for planning determinations.

"However, those changes need to be supported by other measures, including more resources for planning authorities, which should mean the timelines are achieved and result in fewer errors in the planning decisions," Mr Sattin said.

Opening Thursday's conference, Finance Minister Michael McGrath said the Government had committed to delivering up to 80% of Irelands electricity from renewable sources by the end of this decade, which would be achieved through 90GW of onshore wind, 8GW of solar and at least 5GW of offshore wind.

All of this will help fundamentally to give us energy security which since the terrible war in Ukraine, the fundamental importance of having energy security is recognised across Europe as a top priority, he said.

Finance Minister Michael McGrath TD was one of the keynote speakers at the energy conference. Picture: David Creedon

There is no going back. We all have to work together in the spirit of collaboration. None of us acting alone can make the kind of progress we need to make.

It is by the public sector working with all strands of the private sector to deal with the greatest challenge that humankind has ever faced.

However, the survey results show there was less positivity around offshore wind targets, with none of the respondents believing this would happen.

Fifty nine per cent believe less than 2GW of offshore wind capacity will be installed by 2030, while 41% believe more than 2GW but less than the 5GW target will have been achieved. Increased interconnection with the UK and mainland Europe was seen as critical to delivering Irelands off-shore wind ambitions (72%).

More than three quarters (81%) called for greater Government focus on the decarbonisation of transport and heat  not just electricity  in order for Ireland to attract well-rounded FDI, while just over two-thirds of respondents (66%) said the incentivisation of green hydrogen production would help to deliver the decarbonisation of Irelands power system.

Event chair Eoin Cassidy, partner and head of the energy sector team at Mason Hayes & Curran, said Irelands energy transition was one of the defining issues of our time and the event was an opportunity for industry leaders and stakeholders to explore how they can work together to shape the future landscape of energy investment in Ireland and improve our global competitiveness.

Sinead O'Riordan, Emma Forrest and Tina Kastrati from Orsted at the energy conference organised by Mason Hayes & Curran in association with the Irish Examiner that took place at the Clayton Hotel, Cork. Picture: David Creedon

Mr McGrath said achieving the Paris Agreement goal of limiting the increase in global temperature to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels would entail nothing less than a full transformation of our economy and our society.

"It is important to recognise that the scale of investment needed to transform our energy systems is beyond what can be facilitated through public sector funding alone," he said.

"It is therefore imperative that we encourage the development of sustainable businesses. We must ensure that financial markets increasingly embed sustainability, and reorient private capital flows towards sustainable investments, and todays conference provides a timely opportunity to discuss how this collaboration can take place.

Simon Mundy, journalist and author of Race for Tomorrow: Survival, Innovation and Profit on the Front Lines of the Climate Crisis, also spoke at the event to discuss the global race for leadership in the clean energy age, describing it as the most important business and economic story of our generation.
Ibec said Government plans to introduce a participation exemption for dividends brings Ireland in line with other jurisdictions.

The business group's chief economist, Gerard Brady, said the announcement is a positive development in a move toward simplifying Irelands increasingly complex tax system.

Finance Minister Michael McGrath published a roadmap for the introduction of a participation exemption to Irish corporation tax.

It sets out a timeline for the introduction of a participation exemption for dividends.

It will allow dividends from foreign subsidiaries to be exempt from tax when counted as income for Irish firms.

Ireland remains the only country in the EU without a participation exemption on dividends.

"Ireland is committed to ensuring that our corporation tax code is competitive and attractive to business investment while maintaining consistency with international best practices," Mr McGrath said.

"The corporation tax landscape globally has been undergoing a concentrated period of change in recent years, largely arising from the outputs of the OECD[Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development]/G20 project on base erosion and profit shifting."

In October 2021, Ireland was one of almost 140 jurisdictions to sign up to the OECD's two pillar solution to address the tax challenges arising from the digitalisation of the economy.

Mr McGrath said: "This has been described as a once-in-a-generation agreement and the capstone to the process of international tax reform that began over a decade ago."

He said the introduction of a participation exemption for foreign dividends to Irelands tax regime will provide much-needed administrative simplification and greater certainty for businesses while continuing to ensure a robust and effective tax system.

"It will be a significant change to Irish corporation tax; a change which, I believe, will support Irelands competitiveness in the years to come," he said.

Mr Brady said the commitment to introduce the changes from 2025 onwards was positive but it was a missed opportunity that these changes will not be introduced in the upcoming finance bill, to coincide with the adoption of the new EU minimum tax directive.

"These changes first came under discussion in the Coffey review of Irelands corporate tax system in 2017.

"In recent years, all barriers to their change have been removed and the business community has engaged intensively regarding the details of implementation," he said.

Implementing the OECD agreements on corporate tax will reduce the rate differential for Irelands corporate tax regime from 2024 onwards.

"Given the scale of employment generated and tax paid in the country, by both inbound multinational enterprises and Irish headquartered companies, it is crucial that businesses hear a clear message over the coming months on Irelands commitment to competitiveness in other elements of the regime, including the simplification of an increasingly administratively complex tax system.
The Majority Oakington is an affordable FM radio, CD player, and DAB Radio that can double as Bluetooth speakers. Its retro looks are stylish and available with wood-effect finishes that will suit a wide range of locations in the home.

Design

The Oakington has a retro vibe with a modern touch. This is a unit that will look great on a kitchen counter, a coffee table or a bookshelf. It comes in two wood-effect finishes  a dark oak (available in October) and a light beech. The wood is wrapped around the sides, top, base and rear with rounded edges. Around the front is a brushed aluminium faceplate with wood bezels and two circular dark grey speaker grilles. Between the speakers is a small screen; below are eight buttons and then the horizontal slot for the CD player. On top of the unit is a large circular control dial used for volume.

Around the rear is a metal telescopic antenna, a 5V USB-A port for charging other devices, a 3.5mm audio-in jack, a second USB-A port for playing audio files from a memory stick, a 3.5mm headphone jack, a power switch and a figure of eight power port. The base has four large silicone feet to stabilise the unit and provide grip.

Majority includes a feature-rich remote control and a stereo RCA to 3.5mm audio cable, which is a nice bonus.

Features

Unlike the Majority Quadriga I reviewed recently, the Oakington doesnt connect to WiFi, so theres no internet radio. If you need that, Id connect an Echo Dot to the 3.5mm audio port around the back or get the Quadriga.

Many will see the lack of any smart or internet features as a plus. The Oakington is an excellent option for those who want to revive a CD collection or perhaps use it in a holiday home that may not have an internet connection and tune into your local FM radio stations. The DAB features are null and void for those living in Ireland since no radio stations broadcast a digital stream here.

Of course, you get modern conveniences such as Bluetooth to stream from a phone or tablet, but its not the latest.

The USB charging port included alongside the aux and headphone cable ports can charge your phone. However, it also has the potential to play digital music straight from a USB drive for those who might have a lot of music ripped to MP3 files.

The display offers crisp text thats easy to read from a distance with three lines of text, with the first line being three times the size of the second and third lines. It displays the time,

station name and RDS (radio data system) information, if available. When a CD is loaded, all you will see is the track number and track time counting up. Pairing your phone to the Oakington will read Bluetooth and Audio for the 3.5mm Aux connection.

Remote control

The remote takes two AAA batteries, which are included in the box. It provides full control over all of the features of the Oakington, so you only have to get up from your chair to change CDs. The rubber buttons are nicely raised above the surface, making them easy to use. However, if you do lose the remote, you can still use the dial and buttons on the unit itself.

Sound Quality

When you take into account its budget-friendly price, the sound quality of Oakington is genuinely great. It boasts an impressive 30-watt speaker system that delivers ample volume, making your music come to life with powerful low frequencies and bass.

One of the standout features is the ability to fine-tune your music's EQ effortlessly. Whether you prefer to use the remote control or your smartphone, you have the power to adjust the treble and high frequencies to suit your taste.

While it's true the Oakington may not match the power levels of some pricier alternatives on the market, it holds its own with its unique strengths. The wood construction is pivotal in delivering excellent acoustics, ensuring your music sounds crisp and vibrant. So, even at its affordable price point, you can expect a high-quality audio experience that doesn't compromise clarity.

Verdict

The Majority Oakington offers an impressive audio experience that punches above its weight in terms of affordability. Its an ideal all-in-one solution for those who want to take their CD collection for a spin and still be able to use it as a speaker to stream audio from your smartphone. The Oakington comes with a 12-month warranty, which can be extended for an extra two years for free when you register online.

Majority Oakington - RRP 179 from Amazon.co.uk
Bank of Ireland has warned of a new wave of fraud targeting customers across Europe, the UK, Australia and New Zealand which is now in operation across Ireland.

Fraudsters are now using a 'Live Chat' scam to gain remote access to private PCs and banking information, according to the lender.

The scam begins when a customer receives a call from someone reporting to be from Bank of Ireland asking them to log into their account.

The caller then asks the customer to access another, new website address, saying that this is for a live chat service or to verify the customers PC. In reality, it allows the fraudster remote access to the customers PC where they can then see the customers screen and access all of their files and programmes.

Finally, the caller will set up payments on the customers online banking and ask the customer to read out the one-time code from their BOI app to approve the payments.

The fraudsters are mainly targeting business customers of Bank of Ireland at this time, it added.

"Fraudsters operate a range of scams that target people, all designed to access peoples bank account details or dupe them into transferring money," said Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud at Bank of Ireland. "This new scam is of particular concern."

We are urging customers to take extra care when logging into their online banking, to ensure it is a legitimate site. People are currently being directed to fake sites, receiving follow-up phone calls from fraudsters and then being convinced to allow remote access.

"This scam is multi-layered and the international nature of the scam shows that it has been highly effective for the fraudsters elsewhere."

Bank of Ireland has advised people who do receive calls of this nature to "just hang up," reiterating that "if someone asks you for a one-time code from your online banking app, they are a fraudster."

"Never allow a caller to take remote access of your PC," it continued.

"Be very careful when logging on to your online banking website. The safest thing is to type in the website address yourself or to log in through the main Bank of Ireland website at bankofireland.com."
Its getting litigious on our WhatsApp group Douglas Road Stunners Who Thought We Were Sending a Message to a Friend But Sent it to the Whole Group.

Bit of background Audrey. I wasnt really one of the cool girls in school, because my father was only a Certified Accountant and it was a Chartered Accountant minimum to get into the gang.

The girls just adopted me as a 5 th year project and Ive managed to stay inside the group ever since by agreeing with everything they say and being lickarse of the year to Orla Mac because she is Queen Bee-atch and always will be.

Anyway, Orla private messaged me the other night with BIG NEWS.

Shed only gone and shagged Fifis husband Ken at their end-of-summer barbecue, in their new infinity pool, after everyone had gone home.

I told her this was the best thing I ever heard and she should be incredibly proud of shagging Fifis Ken because A: hes super hot and B: shes a dose since she got new boobs in Istanbul. Carnage.

I was after a pint of Merlot and I send this reply into the group chat and Fifi was livid, because she had actually got the boobs done in Berlin.

Shes threatening legal action, although she wont be hiring her solicitor husband Ken for obvious reasons. Should I buy her a limited edition Dryrobe?

 Jenni, Douglas Road.

My Conor got me a Dryrobe last Christmas. I said, whats that for? He said, to stop you flashing your bits below in Myrtleville. I said, am I not allowed have a hobby?

Hello, its Rosealeen here in Ballydesmond.

You think youve heard it all and then your latest boyfriend says he wants to become a part-time lover.

Richie turns to me in the bed last week and said hed like to be my man Monday, Wednesday and Friday, because he has another woman lined up for the other days.

He said this arrangement was all the rage in Los Angeles and I said Richie, youre from Meelin, its a miracle you found one eejit to sleep with you, let alone two, who is this other woman?

Well didnt he bring me to meet her in a cafe in Mallow and we got along famously, she was also part-time dating a TD, a female TD no less, buy me a Pornstar Martini and Ill tell you her name.

Long story short, Im living in Meelin now with herself and Richie. And before you say why dont you ditch Richie, I cant, he won the Lotto a few years back.

Now nothing has happened in Meelin since 1987 so were the talk of the town, and the locals are referring to Richies place as 3-In-A-Bed. Do you think Im making an eejit of myself, tell me?

 Rosealeen, Ballydesmond.

I told your story to the Posh Cousin. She said, Ive one question. I said, go on. She said, what happened in Meelin in 1987?

Cmere, whats the story with Ronan OGara being afraid to visit the northside?

Budgie sent me on this video OGara did for Tourism Ireland, aimed at getting French people to come and visit Cork.

Its all slow-motion clips of him in art galleries and restaurants and cafes. I know the French are a bit nobby in fairness but this video looked like zero craic.

Even OGara seemed lukewarm about the whole thing, but it can be hard to tell in fairness because hes grumpy at the best of times.

But there was no hurling or pints or singsongs or queueing for a Sloppy up in Tasty Snacks.

It showed an aerial view of Shandon, but no sign of OGara actually walking around there because we all know that rugby Southsiders would get a banger if someone said you have to visit the Butter Museum.

Instead, we see him walking around the English Market, which, as you might have noticed, is named after England.

Could you get him to shoot the video again after Budgie and myself give him a tour of the Norrie hotspots?

 Dowcha Donie, Blackpool.

I rang Ronan OGara there and asked if he had time to re-shoot the video. He said the opportunities arent f**king enormous. #FavouritePhrase

Howre oo goin on? Its no joke getting old in West Cork with all the funerals.

The stress of trying to remember peoples names would be enough to kill a man, particularly since lots of people down here have four names.

Im the talk of Dunmanway after offering my condolences to Mike Mick Pat Mary, when it was brother Mick Mike Pat Nuala in front of me, and him consumed with grief.

Is there a kind of an AI robot I could send to these things and lash out the old sorry for your troubles?

 Dan Paddy Andy, a good bit outside Dunmanway, thank God.

My nephew the inventor reckons hes the next Elon Musk, Im very close to him in case he makes a fortune. I rang him there and said, could you make a robot that goes to funerals?

He said, Im working on one right now, I have a particular funeral in mind. I said, whose funeral? He said, yours Aunt Audrey. I said, will the robot be bawling crying? He said, no, and then hung up. So Im looking for another way to get rich.
Established by the Cork Arts Society in 1963, the Lavit Gallery has played a crucial role in promoting new and emerging artists. An early initiative was the Student of the Year Award, which in recent times has been conferred on those graduating from MTU Crawford College of Art & Design. Originally, however, it was presented to students of promise at any level in the college.

As part of its 60th anniversary celebrations, the Lavit Gallery presents Taking Form, an exhibition of work by three Student of the Year Award winners in the 1970s. Vivienne Roche, Eilis OConnell and Maud Cotter are all members of Aosdana, and exhibit internationally. All three work in various media, but are best-known for their sculpture, and particularly for their work in metal.

Vivienne Roche

Vivienne Roche won the Student of the Year Award in 1973. A native of Cork city, she remembers being barely seventeen when she first attended the Crawford School of Art, which was then based on Emmet Place.

It was a time when women had finally begun to claim their place in the arts, a world that had hitherto been very much male-dominated. Roche believes the change can be attributed, in part at least, to the introduction of free education. There was a huge influx of students the year I started, she says. There were at least fifty in 1st Year, and there were as many girls as there were boys.

Roche had grown up in Cork, but found it exciting to be based in the city centre. Wed go all over town looking for materials, she says. Hammond Lane in Blackpool was a favourite; there was a metal yard where wed take a pushcart to get scraps.

The students interest in metal was greatly encouraged by John Burke, who became Head of Sculpture when Roche was in 2nd Year. Burke had also studied at the Crawford, and won the Student of the Year Award when he graduated in 1967.

John set up a proper welding course at the Tech on Sharman Crawford Street, says Roche. We all did it, boys and girls. There was no difference. We learned how to work with metal as a material, and thats been a big influence on everything Ive done since.

Equally influential was the American artist and educator Katherine Boucher Beug. Katherine taught us Josef Albers colour theory. That gave me great confidence, personally. Wed use spray paint intended for cars on our sculptures. In those days, you could get every colour under the sun if you went around the motor shops in town.

Roche has included her very first metal sculpture in the Taking Form exhibition, a work in steel she presented to her parents when she was still a student. On leaving the Crawford, she spent another year studying at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, graduating in 1975.

Artists Vivienne Roche and Maud Cotter standing next to the work of Eilis O'Connell, The Ravelled Sleeve of Care, at the opening of Taking Form, Students of the Year 1973-77, an exhibition by Maud Cotter, Eilis O'Connell and Vivienne Roche at the Lavit Gallery, Cork. Picture Dan Linehan

Maud Cotter

Maud Cotters original ambition was to be a social worker. But I couldnt afford to go to university, says the Wexford-born artist. So actually, art was my second choice. But I was only at the Crawford for two weeks before I realised Id make a good mistake, because this was where I belonged. I felt it was completely the right environment for me.

Like Roche, she remembers John Burke and Katherine Boucher Beug as being inspirational teachers. John brought us on a tour of the Verolme dockyard in Cobh, and it was extraordinary, you know; he just gave us such a sense of the power of steel. And Katherine taught us a Bauhaus drawing course as well as the Josef Albers course on colour. Both were extraordinary. We were uniquely privileged to have this education.

Some of the other teachers she remembers are Ken Lynch, who was a superb ceramicist, and the drawing teacher John OLeary; he was a big influence. Ian Bibby, an English sculptor, came on board at one point. He was very dynamic as well.

There was a great work ethic at the college. We wouldnt go home in the evening, says Cotter. Wed stay in until the college closed at 9pm. Even at lunchtime, we didnt want to leave the college. So one person would be designated to go out and get sandwiches for everybody.

Cotter was conscious of being part of a new wave of female artists. It was an almost totally male concept of art in the world we came into at that time. We had books on the history of art that had no women in them. And then we were going into an unknown environment where it was almost totally about men.

Cotter won the Student of the Year Award in 1974. I was only in 2nd Year. I was nineteen. I went off to America for three months, and that was mind-bogglingly fantastic for me. Id never been in another country. I think I got 900 as my award, and the flights to America were 600. I loved the extraordinary scale of the work I saw there, the ambition, and just the whole power of the work in terms of aesthetics. I mean, it changed my life, that whole trip.

Cotter spent six years at the Crawford. There was no expectation that we would have careers as artists when we graduated, she says. Nothing as arrogant as that. We just worked because the work required that it be made.

I was very fortunate in that I had my first exhibition at the Crawford Art Gallery. There was a good response to that show, and I never looked back.

Crawford School of Art students and teachers on a tour to Verolme dockyard in 1973: Barry Moloney, John Burke, Patricia O'Leary, Donna Hickey, Ann Casey, Mary Horgan, Maud Cotter, Hackie Brett, Eilis O'Connell and Vivienne Roche, with William Joshua.

Eilis OConnell

Eilis OConnell grew up in Bishopstown, and remembers catching the No 8 bus into town to attend classes. She spent six years at the Crawford, along with a year studying in Boston. I went to America for three summers in a row, on a J1 visa. The last time, someone suggested I apply for a scholarship to Massachusetts College of Art, and when I got that, I stayed on. I was really impressed by the land art in America, the whole scale of the work and the notion of putting it outside, which wasnt really happening here at the time.

On her return, OConnell spent another two years at the Crawford, winning the Student of the Year Award in 1977. I was already showing work at the Exhibition of Living Art in Dublin when I was a student, she says. And when I finished art school, I had a solo exhibition at the Ivernia Theatre in Cork. I was taken on by the Hendrix Gallery in Dublin on the strength of that. I remember going up on the train to meet them, with my work under my arm.

OConnell was conscious of how women were asserting themselves in society at that time. Id read Germaine Greer when I was 17, she says. And feminism made perfect sense to me. At that time, the only real career option open to art graduates was teaching. And I didnt want to teach, I wanted to make art, she says. But it was hard going, I was really poor for a long time. But I sold work, and I got commissions, and then I got the chance to live in London. I was dying to get out of Ireland at the time. OConnells move to London was prompted by her winning a two-year residency at the Delfina Studios, which led to her staying on in the city for fourteen years.

By the time she returned to Ireland, in 2002, she was well established as a sculptor, and she continues to work both here and abroad. A major survey of her work, A Family of Things, can currently be seen at the FE McWilliam Gallery in Banbridge.

Despite the ups and downs of her career, OConnell has never regretted becoming an artist. God, no. There was nothing else I wanted to do, she says.
Ryan Tubridy and RTE are in dispute over his contract at the broadcaster, the director general has said.

A parliamentary media committee in Dublin was told that legal correspondence had been exchanged between the two sides.

Director general Kevin Bakhurst said it was RTEs position that it did not owe any money to its former top presenter.

I think its fair to say theres dispute over the contract, he told the committee.

Tubridy stood down as Late Late Show host earlier this year but was continuing to present his weekday show on RTE Radio One when a furore over incorrectly disclosed payments RTE made to him erupted in the summer.

RTE director general Kevin Bakhurst arrives at Leinster House in Dublin, to appear before the Oireachtas Media Committee (Brian Lawless/PA)

At that point negotiations over a new radio contract for Tubridy were halted and he was taken off air amid the crisis that engulfed the organisation.

Mr Bakhurst later re-entered negotiations with a view to securing Tubridys return to the airwaves on a new contract but those talks broke down in August after the director general claimed the presenter was not taking sufficient responsibility for his role in the payments controversy.

Appearing before the Oireachtas media committee on Wednesday, Mr Bakhurst also said there was no plan agreed for Tubridy to repay 150,000 euro he was paid in advance by RTE for future personal appearances with a commercial partner.

When Tubridy appeared before Oireachtas members earlier in the summer he indicated a willingness to pay the money back if the personal appearance events did not materialise.

Mr Bakhurst was asked whether a payment plan was in place for Tubridy to return the two 75,000 euro payments to RTE.

The answer is no, he replied.

I asked him about that money. I said in the previous committee I appeared in that I thought (while) we dont have a legal mechanism to get it back, because it was agreed by RTE, but I think theres a moral case there.

I asked him about it. It was in your documents (RTE documents sent to media committee members) that it was part of the proposed deal if he came back that he was agreeing, if he came back, to repay that money.

He added: We have no legal tools to pursue him. Ive said what I have to say about it, which is I think its a moral case to pay it back, but I also understand that as a result of where negotiations went Ryan doesnt have a source of income at the moment.

I invested a significant amount of time in trying to see if there was a fair solution which could bring Ryan back

Later in the hearing, Mr Bakhurst said: The money has not been paid back. And I think its fair to say Ive not had a further discussion with Ryan about it since the discussions ended with him over the contract.

The director general outlined why he ended talks about a potential return to his radio show.

I dont want to be unfair on Ryan but there was an issue for me about accepting the facts as they were now outlined and whether the various payments of 75,000 had been part of his remuneration package, he said.

And that had been established that it was, and I felt to move on you had to accept the facts. And you had to also accept you had some role in it, although RTE was largely to blame.

Now, in my view, Im afraid that wasnt forthcoming, so that was why we ended it.

Mr Bakhurst rejected the suggestion that his decision to end the negotiations with Tubridy was disproportionate.

I dont think so, he said.

I invested a significant amount of time in trying to see if there was a fair solution which could bring Ryan back and, as you know, I had a lot on my plate, but I did have a number of meetings or discussions with Ryan.

I did want to bring him back because I though it was the fair thing but in the end, you know, Id reflected quite hard on it and I felt it was not the right thing for the organisation at the time.

Mr Bakhurst denied he was pressurised internally not to allow Tubridy back on air.

I was not under pressure, he said.

I asked for views internally and I asked for views from the board and I asked for views from Radio One and his colleagues on his programme team and others on the leadership team.

So it was carefully considered and there was a proper and robust discussion about it within the organisation and, look, I explained to Ryan at the time there were divided views about it in every area and including the significant amount of correspondence I got directly from the audience.
The lone Democratic judicial candidate in a state Supreme Court district that extends from Rochester to Auburn is a Long Island attorney who, until early July, was running for a town supervisor seat in Suffolk County.

Margot Garant has been nominated by Democrats to run for state Supreme Court judge in the 7th Judicial District, which includes Cayuga, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne and Yates counties.

Garant won't be campaigning for the judgeship, though. The nomination helped Democrats in the town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, replace her on the ballot.

Earlier this year, Garant announced she would run for Brookhaven supervisor. She had served as mayor of Port Jefferson, a village within the town, for 14 years and decided to seek higher office. She filed petitions to appear on the Democratic and Working Families party lines.

But on July 1, Garant said she would withdraw from the race for town supervisor. Newsday reported she had a stroke that required a brief hospitalization.

"As some of you may know, I have been dealing with a health issue that requires me to take some time off from my public duties and focus on my recovery," Garant wrote on her campaign Facebook page.

Because Garant withdrew from the race three months after the deadline to file petitions, Democrats had to find a way to remove her from the ballot in Brookhaven.

Enter the 7th Judicial District.

One option for replacing a candidate on the ballot is to nominate them for a judgeship. Because Garant is an attorney  she has a practice in Port Jefferson  and is a New York resident, she meets the eligibility requirements for a state Supreme Court judge.

Democrats in the 7th district quietly nominated Garant for state Supreme Court, even though she lives more than 300 miles away from the district's easternmost point. The move allowed Lillian Clayman to replace Garant on the ballot as the Democratic nominee for Brookhaven supervisor.

There are two state Supreme Court judge seats on the ballot in the 7th district, one of which was created by the state Legislature. The other is held by Judge Alex Renzi, who is seeking a second 14-year term. Renzi has the Republican and Conservative party lines.

Joe Waldorf, the principal court attorney for Judge William Taylor, the administrative judge of the 7th district, is the other Republican and Conservative nominee. He is a former assistant district attorney in Monroe County.

Election Day is Nov. 7.
Disabilities Minister Anne Rabbitte stormed out of a meeting with senior HSE officials after relations broke down over a lack of delivery on therapists to schools.

It comes as parents of children attending a special school Carrigaline, Co Cork, vented frustration that promised therapists have yet to start working at the school.

Carrigaline is one of four schools, including another in Rochestown in Cork, due to be allocated assistant therapists this week.

However, none of the 14 specialists have been appointed.

A further 50 assistant therapists are due to be rolled out across other schools before Christmas.

Ms Rabbitte yesterday met with senior HSE officials to discuss the lack of progress in appointing assistant speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, phycologists, and other specialists required to support pupils.

However, less than an hour into the meeting, which had been scheduled to run for more than two hours, Ms Rabbitte walked out in anger over what she viewed as a failure to present any clear rationale for the delays.

Before abruptly leaving the meeting, she ordered officials to come up with a concrete and immediate plan and said the matter was so serious she would not be meeting with HSE heads again unless chief executive Bernard Gloster also attended.

The appointment of assistant therapists to schools had already been deemed a "comprise" by Ms Rabbitte who wants senior clinicians to be reinstated to support children.

Officials have been ordered to come up with a concrete and immediate plan.

Therapists were removed from schools to allow for the rollout of the new Progressing Disability Services (PDS) plan.

PDS was meant to reorganise how children and their families access and receive clinical disability services, and provide a fairer pathway to clinical supports, through the establishment of new childrens disability network teams in communities across the country.

However, last year Ms Rabbitte said the new system was "simply not delivering for children" and ordered the HSE to redeploy therapists in schools until waiting lists for occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and speech and language assessment and therapy are addressed.
A number of Irish people have been affected by botulism in the French city of Bordeaux, the HSE has confirmed, after an outbreak centred on home-preserved-canned sardines served at the Tchin Tchin Wine Bar.

The French health ministry issued an alert and has since confirmed one death has been associated with the outbreak and a total of 12 cases have been identified up to Wednesday.

Below, we answer some of your questions about the rare condition:

Why is botulism in the news?

A senior doctor at the hospital caring for the patients urged anyone who had been in the city  which hosted the Ireland vs Romania leg of the World Rugby Cup at the weekend  to be on the alert for symptoms.

The cases are, so far, all linked to the Tchin Tchin wine bar in Bordeaux.

What is botulism?

Botulism is a potentially fatal paralytic illness, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) says. It is caused by a toxin produced by a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum.

It can occur when someone eats food in which this bacterium had been able to grow.

Is botulism contagious?

No, botulism is not contagious. It cannot be spread from one person to another. Botulism is spread by eating food with the toxin present or a food item containing bacterial spores

What are the symptoms?

People returning from Bordeaux who may have eaten sardines at this bar have been urged by French doctors to monitor for symptoms, as they can take weeks to emerge.

Early symptoms can include double and/or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, and slurred speech. As paralysis worsens this can progress to difficulty swallowing and muscle weakness.

The FSAI warns that if this is left untreated it can progress to paralysis of the arms, legs, and muscles that help you to breathe. Respiratory failure generally causes death in untreated individuals.

Symptoms generally begin 12 to 36 hours after consuming the toxin in food. However, in rare cases symptoms can occur as early as six hours or as late as two weeks after exposure, the FSAI says.

Most people recover but this can take months.

What other foods could carry this risk?

Outbreaks have been recorded in canned food, jarred foods in oil, some fish products, and meat or blood sausages, the FSAI says.

Have there been foodborne botulism outbreaks in Ireland?

Very rarely. Between 2004 and 2020 there were 11 reported notifications of botulism in Ireland, the FSAI say.

The FSAI and the HSE also warn about the risks of infant botulism, similarly caused by clostridium, but linked to exposure to turtles or turtle feed. These reptiles are not recommended for homes with children aged under five.
The son of an American tourist left in a coma after an assault in Dublin city centre has said he can account for every penny of a GoFundMe campaign launched to help him assist his father.

Mike Rizzuto said he was horrified to learn his father, Stephen Termini, had accused him of withholding funds worth more than 133,000.

Speaking from his home in Buffalo, New York, he told the Irish Examiner he has kept a spreadsheet of all expenses which he has submitted to the GoFundMe team.

I have all the receipts, he said. I have huge compassion for our father and love him very much. He was seriously injured thousands of miles away and had nobody to care for him at that time.

He suffered a brain injury and was in a coma. We raised funds to go and see him and help and support him while there.

I have not withheld anything; Im concerned about his recovery from his assault. I cant even imagine the trauma he feels or has yet to feel.

The hospital did not want to discharge him at one point, he struggled during a hospital task to go to the shop and buy something.

It would be irresponsible to just hand him more than 100,000 in cash."

Mr Rizzuto added he also needed clarity on the total amount of his fathers bills from his stay in hospital.

Im working with experienced people to help him with the funds that we are concerned he wont be able to manage properly."

He added he would always be here for their father.

I just feel so awful about this, he said We were building a relationship with our dad over the past few years after me and my brother were adopted as babies."

Mr Rizzuto said there was 85,000 of the 133,516 left in the GoFundMe account.

Stephen Termini: 'I have nothing now  I am broke and would like to get sorted with a house and land and work and pay my taxes in Ireland. Picture: Michael Rizzuto/GoFundMe

Stephen Termini, 57 who has also returned to Buffalo, said: I am doing really well. I dont have a brain injury and I have completely recovered. All the hospital bills were covered by the embassy and government.

But the hospital wouldnt let me return on the flight with Mike and Jesse in case something happened, they would be responsible. There was a task and I struggled with it, but then I got through it.

I was mad that they wouldnt discharge me. I am going back to work and doing well.

I am going to set up my own GoFundMe page so Mike can transfer money to me. We are not in contact right now, maybe that will get better.

I believe the money could be used to buy a small house in Westport where my great grandmother Anne Donnelly was born. I believe Ireland is my home. I want to live and work there and be a citizen.

The boys were adopted as babies and that was their mothers decision, and then we connected. I just want the people of Ireland to know what is happening and hopefully this will be sorted out.

I have nothing now  I am broke and would like to get sorted with a house and land and work and pay my taxes in Ireland."
Efforts are underway to develop a bilateral agreement between An Garda Siochana and Dubai police to advance the investigation into the Kinahan organised crime gang, according to the Garda Commissioner.

Speaking in Rathcormac, Co Cork on Thursday, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said correspondence has been exchanged between himself and the Lieutenant General Commander in Chief of Dubai Police, Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, following Commissioner Harriss visit to Dubai last week.

The Garda Commissioner said: Last week I had the privilege of visiting Dubai police.

Mayor of the County of Cork Frank O'Flynn, centre, with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris and Justice Minister Helen McEntee in Rathcormac, Co Cork. Picture: Andy Gibson.

Obviously, elements of the Kinahan organised crime gang are based there, so its in our interests as a police service and actually in bringing individuals to justice that we have a good relationship with Dubai police.

I think last week was a really important step.

He added: I think we can have a very positive partnership with them, so the invitation has been made for them to visit Dublin so we can share information and intelligence and then obviously work towards a bilateral agreement with the Dubai police in terms of advancing our investigations.

At present, there is no extradition agreement between Ireland and the UAE.

During last weeks visit, Commissioner Harris met several high-ranking officers from the Dubai forces anti-narcotics and criminal investigations departments, and the unit that tackles money laundering.

Following last weeks meeting, Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri released a statement saying the meeting was aimed at strengthening co-operation in combatting money laundering, cross-border, and cyber crimes.

Commissioner Harris and the Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, were in Rathcormac, Co Cork, for the reopening of the local garda station, which has been refurbished over a five-month period.

The station is now wheelchair-accessible, and the public office now has a facility for people with hearing difficulties. It is also one of the first garda stations in the Southern garda region to have an electric vehicle charging point.

Former gardai who previously served in Rathcormac attended the event.

Commissioner Harris said An Garda Siochana thanked the local community for facilitating the works and said the organisation is committed to protecting the environment.

He said: As part of that commitment, we are investing in energy-efficient buildings and in electric vehicles.

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris and Justice Minister Helen McEntee in Rathcormac, Co Cork, for the official reopening of the local garda station after a major refurbishment project. Picture: Andy Gibson

The station is now fully insulated, has a new energy-efficient heating system, and is lit with LED lighting in a step to meet the targets set out in the Climate Action Plan 2023.

Commissioner Harris said the Rathcormac station is the very essence of what An Garda Siochana is all about  a service which is local and responsive to local community concerns and needs.

He said there was just one garda based in the station when it closed last October for the refurbishment works. There are now two based in the station, he added.

We remain as committed as ever to community policing and the investment here is an example of this.

Justice Minister Helen McEntee described it as a positive and happy occasion for the local community.

She said: I cannot stress enough the amount of respect and the trust we place in you and the Irish people place in you and the work that you do in keeping us safe day in, day out. As a country, we are immensely proud of the work that you do.
High flyers from the world of aviation and politics touched down at Foynes, Co Limerick today, to cut the ribbon on a 5m redevelopment of the towns famous Flying Boat Museum.

A hidden gem, Foynes oozes a warm quaintness, but its idyllic location, on the banks of the Shannon Estuary, was once a bustling hub for Irelands first commercial transatlantic services.

A life sized Yankee Clipper flying boat, like one that was piloted by Captain Charlie Blair, husband of late great Hollywood icon Maureen OHara, who previously visited the museum, is moored inside what is now Irelands largest aviation museum in Foynes.

The village, also the home of the Irish Coffee, continues to serve as an immense strategic tourism and export link, accepting cruise ships and export freight liners at Foynes Port, home of the Shannon Foynes Port Company.

The redeveloped museum also incorporates the Maureen O'Hara Exhibition, celebrating the late actor's career achievements, her personal memorabilia, and her longstanding family links to the museum.

An interactive new library features flight simulators, aviation publications dating back to the 1930s, air disasters, and a 100-seater cinema showing old reels, charting its rich aviation history.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar poses alongside a picture of Maureen O'Hara while touring the newly opened Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum, after its redevelopment. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

Work is also underway on restoring a rail line between the village and Limerick City.

Its great to be back in Foynes, this is one of my favourite museums in Ireland, and which tells the remarkable story of how Foynes pioneered transatlantic flight, with those remarkable flying boats carrying passengers between Ireland and the US in the 1930s and 1940s, said Taoiseach Leo Varadkar.

It is a really good example of the Governments commitment to regional development, ensuring that every part of Ireland enjoys the benefits of tourism, and the employment that tourism brings, the Taoiseach added.

Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin, noted that the museum also provides local employment and supports sustainable tourism development by drawing visitors to a rural region of Ireland.

Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum board chairman Eamonn Brennan said the museum expansion would help create more employment as an all-year-round tourism, educational, research and cultural attraction, and provide conference and event space for the many companies based in the west Limerick area.

The museums chief executive and founder, Margaret OShaughnessy, said all involved are proud to explain to visitors that the museum is the only place in the world where one can step on board an exact replica of a Boeing 314 Clipper flying boat The Yankee Clipper.

Visit www.flyingboatmuseum.com for more.
For any man writing a city column, people who take an interest in that citys local history are heroes.

Hence my interest in a new book about a Corkman who roamed the world exhibiting robots in the eighteenth century to wild acclaim and considerable financial reward.

When I learned his name was Marsden Haddock I was hooked (sorry).

Kudos to Neil Cronin, author of Marsden Haddock and the Androides: Entertainment, Late Georgian Cork and The Wider World. He unearthed the tale while exercising his interest in local history: Cronin was working his way through eighteenth-century newspapers when he began to notice advertisements for Haddocks androides and decided to dig deeper.

Haddock was born around 1759 and began his working life with his father Edward, a furniture-maker based at Fenns Quay.

HISTORY HUB If you are interested in this article then no doubt you will enjoy exploring the various history collections and content in our history hub. Check it out HERE and happy reading

When we spoke, Neil stressed how important Cork was to Haddock all through his life  and how important Cork was in general at that time.

Its fair to describe Cork as a boom town for most of the eighteenth century. England and France were at war on and off for decades up to Waterloo, and Cork thrived on that war.

The locals must have loved hearing about the wars because the city boomed on the war trade, supplying the British forces, and the population exploded

Agriculture was the big driver. There mightnt be much to be said for Irelands natural resources, but the best resource then was the green grass and Cork exported huge amounts of butter and beef. A lot of people made a lot of money from that trade, and people with money to spend kept accountants and dentists and retailers going.

Corks importance as a port put it on a circuit of sorts. Lines of communication might have been tenuous and travel challenging, but an Atlantic network still existed.

Theres this notion of an Atlantic World, which takes in the slave colonies of the West Indies and what were then the American colonies, Britain, the other empires and kingdoms bordering the Atlantic  and Cork was an important part of that world, mainly due to its significance as a supplier in war.

That wasnt just a matter of exporting food for the British army, either. Convoys would gather in Cork harbour for expeditions, and its written that at times there might be three hundred ships under sail in the harbour, which must have been a magnificent sight. Theyd all be congregated together, waiting for the winds to turn the right way for them.

When that happened they must have been very impressive, hundreds of sailing ships passing beyond Roches Point and out into the Atlantic  it must have taken hours for them all to pass.

But they could have spent weeks waiting in the harbour for the winds to change, which again was a huge economic boom for the city and its hinterland, the sailors had to be fed and watered and the ships provisioned

Cork was already well militarised with soldiers. Dont forget that when the Duke of Wellington went to Spain and Portugal to fight the Peninsular War he left from Cork.

This then was the bustling port town of the late eighteenth century, streets bursting with sailors, soldiers, merchants, and workers of all kinds. The Haddocks were on the fringes as artisans and craftsmen.

Is it fair to say they had an eye out for the main chance?

Entrepreneurial, is Cronins term.

One of Haddocks relatives specialised in delicate carpentry work  stuff like venetian blinds  while Haddock himself was an umbrella-maker and good at what he did.

That aptitude for delicate work helped him later with the figures he made, and the entrepreneurial spirit led him into other business interests in Britain and America, but the foundation of it all was Cork.

For instance, he got involved in paper-making later, which was hardly surprising  at that time Cork was the biggest paper-maker in Britain and Ireland.

He was also an organist, and organ-maker, which again required fine, delicate work with the small pipes in the instrument. All of those skills were based on what he learned in Cork.

Eventually, he put those skills to work in his famous show. When Haddock got going he reversed the general trend: before him Cork would be visited by acts and entertainers, but they might get to Cork eight years after starting their tour in London. Haddock started off in Cork and went to London with his show.

What exactly was in this androide show?

He had two different types of pieces, says Cronin. He had automatons, little human figures which could be programmed to write a word, with their eyes following the word as its written  very impressive even now. He probably borrowed  or maybe stole  those.

The second kind of piece he had was more puppet-like. The unique thing about his show was that the pieces interacted with the audience, theyd respond to questions, for instance, which was a great selling point. It made for a different show every night.

With the latter pieces he must have worked some trick or used a colleague to move the pieces surreptitiously. The figures were small enough, which naturally limited the size of the crowds who could see them  they had to get pretty close to see what was happening.

For all that, over time he must have made a lot of money.

Haddock toured Ireland from Cork, went to London until around 1800  he came back to Ireland for a brief visit in 1798 but didnt fancy the air of rebellion  and then came home to Cork as the nineteenth century dawned.

With it came a downturn.

Cork was different when he came back, says Cronin. The end of the French wars was in sight, and that was bad news for Cork.

Waterloo was a disaster for Cork, not just Napoleon. Ive heard people say that Cork didnt recover from Waterloo until Apple located here

Haddock invested in a paper mill out beyond Glanmire but it failed. He made equipment for theatres. He was involved in mineral water ventures. He moved to working with organs again but those were being replaced by pianos, so he went back to touring again.

For eight or nine years Haddock toured Britain again  and then hit for New York and Boston, though by then he was already in his sixties, a fair age to start again in another country. His last show was in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1829, but Cronin says its not clear when he passed away.

The book is published by Four Courts Press, and Neil Cronin was loud in his praise for Michael Potterton and Ray Gillespie of Maynooth Universitys local studies section for their support. I congratulated him for saving Haddock from obscurity and he couldnt hide his fondness for the man from Fenns Quay.

You can glean a lot about him from his activities, even if we dont know much about his personality. A lot of it is supposition.

But its clear enough that he was irrepressible.
For most of us, most of the time, insurance is just another bill that drops on the mat once or twice a year for our home or car. And while sometimes it might be tempting not to bother renewing, the nagging possibility, however slight, of being financially wiped out by a catastrophe, such as a house fire or major flood damage, means we keep on paying those annoying annual premia.

Risk mitigation is big business. Globally the insurance industry is a behemoth, with annual revenues approaching $5 trillion and up to $25 trillion in reserves and investments. Being able to offer insurance means understanding the nature of risk exposure and the probability of claims not exceeding income and reserves.

Typically, it is assumed that in any given year, a small number of claims will be made per 1,000 vehicles or homes covered. The pooled income then allows a few big payouts to be made. What happens, however, if a city is hit by a storm or extreme flooding event that destroys thousands of cars and houses?

The home insurance market in particular is beginning to rapidly unravel in parts of the world as extreme weather events ratchet up. In the first eight months of 2023 in the US, there have been 23 natural disasters where damage has exceeded $1bn, making it already the worst year on record, with almost four months remaining.

Climate change is the number one long-term risk out there, according to Jerome Haegeli, chief economist with re-insurance giant, Swiss Re.

The Hazelwood centre in Glanmire, Co. Cork, after flooding in 2012. There are already households in the area unable to get insurance dating back to this flood.

Calculating insurable risk depends on complex mathematical modelling, but for all their sophistication, almost all models have a fundamental flaw in that they base current and future risk on what has happened in the past.

Accelerating climate change means the risks are increasing, in scale, frequency and in unpredictability. Last May, State Farm Insurance, the largest insurer in California halted all its new home policies in the state due to what it described as growing catastrophic exposure to wildfire risk in particular.

In the last six years, California alone has experienced more than $30bn in insurable losses as a direct result of wildfires fuelled by rising temperatures. In March, Eric Andersen, president of Aon PLC stated that climate change has created a crisis of confidence around the ability to predict loss.

Ominously, Anderson added that just as the US economy was over-exposed to mortgage risk in 2008, the economy today is over-exposed to climate risk. Hurricanes, wildfires and flooding disasters have pushed insurers into crisis and bankruptcy in several US states, with homeowners struggling to get cover at almost any price.

The situation in Europe is also growing critical. According to the European Commission, losses directly attributable to climate change cost EU states some 145bn over the last decade, with Ireland ranking the third-highest country in per-capita climate related losses. These losses are expected to rise exponentially in the years and decades ahead, with dire implications for the insurance industry.

In parts of Cork, including Glanmire, there are already households that are unable to get insurance dating back to a major flood in the area over a decade ago. The inability to get insurance means people cannot get mortgages, with obvious knock-on effects into the wider economy.

Climate risk

In August 2022, Irelands Central Bank launched a consultation on climate change risk for the insurance sector, upgrading climate from emerging risk to key risk, and advised all insurers to closely monitor their exposure to climate risks.

The stakes are high, not just for the future viability of the insurance sector, but for society as a whole, according to Central Bank governor, Gabriel Makhlouf. A survey it conducted in 2021 found that only one in five insurers fully integrate climate risk into their risk management frameworks, with less than half the firms surveyed having conducted stress testing around climate risks.

This laid-back attitude to emerging climate risk is by no means confined to Ireland. Research published earlier this year revealed shocking levels of ignorance and complacency across the financial sector.

The study, involving the University of Exeter and the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, found that many leading financial institutions simply didnt understand the models being used to project the economic cost of climate change.

Models developed by economists that fundamentally misunderstand climate risks, including tipping points and compound events, are being used by financial institutions to estimate their own exposure to climate risks, and these are in many cases profoundly inaccurate.

'Hothouse world'

For instance, a number of major financial institutions in the UK bizarrely reported that they would be unaffected or even do better in hothouse world climate scenarios that will lay waste to civilisation.

The most egregious example of this occurred in 2018, when famed economist, William Nordhaus in his address on receiving the Nobel Prize in Economics stated that an average 4C global temperature rise would represent the optimal balance between costs of climate change versus climate action.

As climate science has long confirmed, a 4C world would in reality be a hellish dystopia of famines, desertification, forced migration, political and economic chaos, ecological collapse and global immiseration. Indeed, at just 1.2C, the world is already experiencing ever-worsening and increasingly dangerous extreme weather events, as the ferocious summer of 2023 has so forcefully underlined.

The notion that the worlds food production system alone could withstand 4C global temperature rise is considered wildly unrealistic by scientists, yet many economists and the financial institutions they influence often appear to exist in a parallel reality where the physical limits of Earth systems do not apply.

As a case in point, an assessment of likely impacts on global GDP in a hothouse world of +3C carried out by a group comprising 114 central banks and financial overseers somehow managed to entirely omit impacts related to extreme weather, sea-level rise or wider societal impacts from migration or conflict.

If at this point it seems fanciful that some of the worlds highest-paid and ostensibly smartest people could really have gotten something this big so completely wrong, cast your mind back to the financial collapse of 2008, where greed, self-delusion and magical thinking on the part of major banks and investment companies came within a hairs-breadth of triggering a total collapse of the global economy.

If they were this unable to grasp financial risk back in the early 2000s, is it really so difficult to imagine that the same people and institutions are any less blinkered today on climate risks?

Read More Natural disaster insurance claims set to top 92bn

On a positive note, many major insurers are now refusing to provide cover to new oil and gas exploration, having finally twigged that the fossil fuel industry is destroying the stable climate system that the insurance industrys business model depends on.

While the only effective long-term defence against climate change is to drastically cut carbon pollution, in the interim, we also have to spend heavily to strengthen our infrastructure against threats such as rising sea levels.

To get a sense of just how unprepared the Irish public is for what lies ahead, Dublin City Council spent half a million euros in 2018 to lower a newly constructed sea wall as it slightly obstructed the sea views of motorists.

This change was demanded by local residents, even though these same residents may well face having their homes inundated as sea-level rise continues. The penny may not yet have dropped for many, but that too will change as the climate crisis comes crashing against our shores.
In her annual address on the state of the European Union, commission president Ursula von der Leyen has given her strongest signal yet of the intention to add Ukraine and other nations as member states.

Her speech was the latest sign that Brussels is thinking completely differently about EU enlargement since the start of the war in Ukraine.

The way in which von der Leyen has changed her tone on the addition of new EU member states also reflects the shift away from emphasising only the economic or legal roles of the EU.

Replicating the practices of more established democracies, the annual state of the union speeches, which began in 2010, have increasingly invoked notions of the EU as a state-like, federal entity.

In her first years as president of the commission, von der Leyen said little in her annual speeches about adding new members. This reflected a certain accession fatigue that came following the admittance of a large number of eastern European states that ended up being the net beneficiaries of the EU budget after the 2007/2008 economic crash.

There was also reticence about renegotiating the Lisbon Treaty, which forms the constitutional basis of the EU. That would be a protracted and politically difficult process requiring unanimity among member states. Such a change might be necessary to bring in new member states.

Von der Leyen signalled her strong commitment to adding new members in the past but this only pertained to the potential membership of Albania and North Macedonia.

And she certainly did not frame this commitment as paramount to European democracy or unity. Nor was there any explicit reference to the accession of post-Soviet states.

Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022 brought a change. That same year, von der Leyen spoke of the conflict as a showdown between autocracy and democracy. She explicitly stated that the western Balkans, Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova are part of our family and that their future is in our union.

Even then, however, the emphasis was on economic support and access to the single market and its perks, such as EU roaming. This is in line with the policies and rhetoric of most EU leaders through the 2010s, many of whom advocated for a multi-speed EU and promised these countries everything but EU membership.

A geopolitical union

Now, in 2023, even further change is afoot. Von der Leyen is overtly presenting the EU as a geopolitical union that will take a proactive approach to adding new members rather than allowing debates to rattle on without direction.

The merit-based principle of EU accession will continue to apply but there is a key shift in perspective. Von der Leyen is now positioning further enlargement as a catalyst for success for the EU itself, rather than focusing on the benefit it brings to new member states.

She now envisions a union complete with over 500 million people living in a free, democratic and prosperous EU.

Von der Leyen has a long-term ambition to move away from the idea that bringing in more member states must come at a cost to the depth of integration between nations.

In this years state of the union, she drew parallels to the 2004 big boom enlargement, which brought in 10 new member states at once, including Poland and Slovenia.

She reminded her audience this had been called the European Day of Welcome and called on them to look ahead to the next set of of such days.

She even insisted the bloc cannot afford to wait for EU treaty change to become a team of more than 30 nations, urging her audience to think about how enlargement can be achieved without this lengthy process being fully completed.

Signalling Europes readiness to once again think big and write our own destiny, she introduced a series of pre-enlargement policy reviews  a significant shift from previous practice.

It is also worth noting how this discussion is now playing out in far more emotional terms than it has in the past. This was perhaps most apparent in von der Leyens articulation of her vision itself but was evident in the run-up to her speech, which saw much excitement build around what she might have to say on enlargement.

In May 2023, she had talked of the EU taking responsibility to bring the aspiring members  closer. And now, in September, she invoked the personal story of Victoria Amelina, a Ukrainian author killed in an airstrike.

This highly charged moment created a sense of European ethos and became the zenith of her speech, triggering a standing ovation by members of the European Parliament.

A sea change

The war in Ukraine has prompted a re-evaluation of von der Leyens original approach to EU enlargement. During the course of 2022, Ukraine, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Moldova have all become EU candidates, and negotiations about accession began with Albania and North Macedonia at a pace that was unimaginable prior to the outbreak of the conflict.

This years state of the union is another significant step in this respect. It was the first to frame Ukraine as a genuine candidate country for membership.

Enlargement is no longer framed as a secondary, distant and primarily economic objective but an urgent political act of justice and solidarity and a necessary step to restore the security of the EU and even that of Europe more broadly.

Others have made moves to present the EU as a political rather than economic union in the past but have met with limited success. Von der Leyens words on the call of history to expand the EU due to geopolitical imperatives were met this time with applause rather than scepticism.

After years of effective hiatus, enlargement policy is back on the EUs agenda. The addition of new member states is no longer a distant dream but a salient and current aspiration.
In her State of the Union speech, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyden covered many important issues from the Green Deal and EUs support for farmers to Migration, AI, Ukraine and Enlargement.

Barbara Nolan, Head of EC Representation in Dublin said:

Its probably the most important speech the Commission President makes each year. She lays out the political priorities for the year ahead, takes stock of what has been achieved in the past and sets out the proposals the Commission will launch in the coming months.

President von der Leyden started her address to the European Parliament yesterday morning with a pledge that Europes green transition will be powered by Europes industry and state-subsidised products from outside the Union will not be allowed to undercut European companies.

Climate Change Challenges

Referencing recent events of chaos and carnage caused by ravaging wildfires and devastating floods, she said This is the reality of a boiling planet. The European Green Deal was born out of this necessity to protect our planet. And this is why, as we enter the next phase of the European Green Deal, one thing will never change. We will keep supporting European industry throughout this transition.

Agriculture and Farming

The President emphasised that farming and the protection of nature can go hand in hand and pledged EUs continued support for farmers. I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to our farmers, to thank them for providing us with food day after day. For us in Europe, this task of agriculture  producing healthy food  is the foundation of our agricultural policy. It is not always an easy task, as the consequences of Russias aggression against Ukraine, climate change bringing droughts, forest fires and flooding, and new obligations are all having a growing impact on farmers work and incomes.

Many are already working towards a more sustainable form of agriculture. We must work together with the men and women in farming to tackle these new challenges. That is the only way to secure the supply of food for the future. We need more dialogue and less polarisation.

That is why we want to launch a strategic dialogue on the future of agriculture in the EU.

AI

The President called for a new global framework to control the development of artificial intelligence. She proposed to set up a global panel of experts who can provide knowledge on the risks and benefits of AI including its impact on society.

Migration

She urged the European states to adopt swiftly the proposed European Pact on migration and called for legislation and more international cooperation to fight against human smugglers.

Let us show that Europe can manage migration effectively and with compassion.

Lets get this done!

Ukraine

As expected, President von der Leyden was steadfast in promising Europes unwavering support for Ukraine.

We will be at Ukraines side every step of the way. For as long as it takes.

She also announced that the Commission will propose the extension of the temporary protection to Ukrainians in the EU.

Our support to Ukraine will endure.

Enlargement

The President also called for a further enlargement of the European Union with membership of 30 plus countries.

A Union complete with over 500 million people living in a free, democratic and prosperous Union.

It is time for Europe to once again think big and write our own destiny!
An American researcher who spent 11 days stuck in a Turkish cave after falling ill has said he thought he would die there before a complex international rescue operation got him out.

Mark Dickey, 40, appeared relaxed as he spoke to reporters at a hospital in Mersin, southern Turkey, where he is recovering from his ordeal.

Asked if he ever gave up hope while trapped more than 3,000 feet underground, Mr Dickey replied, No. But theres a difference between accurately recognising your current risk against giving up.

You dont let things become hopeless, but you recognise the fact that Im going to die.

This was an amazing example of international collaboration, of what we can do together as a country, as a world

Mr Dickey fell ill on September 2 with stomach bleeding while mapping the Morca cave in southern Turkeys Taurus Mountains. He vomited blood and had lost large amounts of it and other fluids by the time rescuers brought him to the surface on Tuesday.

What caused his condition, which rendered him too frail to climb out of the cave on his own, remained unclear.

Dressed in a blue T-shirt and with an IV line plug attached to his hand, the experienced caver from Croton-on-Hudson, New York, thanked the Turkish government for acting quickly, decisively to get the medical supplies needed to sustain him into the cave.

He also praised the international effort to save him. Teams from Turkey and several European countries mounted a challenging operation that involved pulling him up the caves steep vertical sections and navigating through mud and cold water in the horizontal ones.

Rescuers had to widen some of the caves narrow passages, install ropes to pull him up shafts on a stretcher and set up temporary camps along the way before the operation could begin.

Medical personnel treated and monitored Mr Dickey as teams comprised of a doctor and three to four other rescuers took turns staying by his side at all times.

Mark Dickey being pulled out of the cave (AFAD via AP)

This honestly was an amazing rescue, said Mr Dickey, who also is an experienced underground rescuer. This was an amazing example of international collaboration, of what we can do together as a country, as a world.

Commenting on the insane public focus on his rescue, he added: I really am blessed to be alive. Its been a tough time. While I was trapped underground  I was trapped for 11 days  I learned that I had a nation watching, hoping, praying that I would survive: Turkey.

Mr Dickey will continue his recovery at Mersin City Hospital. Laughing and joking during his brief media conference on Thursday, he said he would definitely continue to explore caves.

Theres risk in all life and in this case, the medical emergency that occurred was completely unpredicted and unknown, and it was a one-off, he said, adding that he would love to return to the Morca cave, Turkeys third deepest, to complete his task.

Around 190 people from Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, Poland and Turkey took part in the rescue, including doctors, paramedics and experienced cavers.

The Italian National Alpine and Speleological Corps said the rescue operation took more than 100 rescuers from around 10 counties a total of 60 hours and that Mr Dickey was in the cave for roughly 500 hours.
This is the first 2023 I Love NY Fall Foliage Report for New York state. Reports are obtained from volunteer field observers and reflect expected color conditions for the coming weekend. Reports are issued every Wednesday afternoon.

New York states 2023 fall foliage season is underway, with the first signs of the spectacular seasonal colors to come appearing in several regions, including the Adirondacks, Thousand Islands-Seaway, Catskills and Chautauqua-Allegheny. This is according to the field reports from volunteer observers for the Empire State Development Division of Tourisms I Love NY program. Foliage change in other areas of the state will be 5% or less.

In the Adirondacks, Franklin County spotters in Saranac Lake are predicting up to 20% leaf change by the weekend, with a muted mix of green and yellow, and some isolated pops of red. Areas along water will have changed slightly more than others. Spotters in Tupper Lake and Mount Arab predict up to 20% transition as the cool, crisp evenings, unseasonably warm days, and an abundance of summer rain act as the catalyst for spectacular fall brilliance. Ample summer rains have fueled good tree health, leaf retention and vivid color production. The bright summer greens are quickly fading to Army green, and emerging colors include burgundy, claret, rhubarb, maize, copper and bronze with a rosy glow. In the northern portion of the county, spotters in the Malone area predict a little less than 10% change, with a few muted red and orange leaves appearing over the mostly green landscape.

In Herkimer County, look for up to 20% change in Old Forge. Shades of golden yellow are the most dominant of the emerging colors, with burgundy and some shades of green and dark red. In Hamilton County, spotters in Lake Pleasant expect up to 15% leaf change with some oranges and reds popping through. In Lewis County, spotters in Lowville predict less than 10% foliage change, with emerging touches of yellow and orange.

In Essex County, foliage spotters in Lake Placid are anticipating 10% leaf color change, with a few reds and golden yellows. In Wilmington, reports from Whiteface Mountain Ski Area project up to 10% foliage change this weekend with bright, mostly green leaves dotted by some emerging red and yellow. Spotters reporting from the communities around Whiteface Mountain, including Wilmington, Jay, Upper Jay, and Au Sable Forks, also predict 10% change, with muted deep purples, plus shades of red and orange. In Newcomb, foliage spotters are predicting as much as 10% color change, with muted to average shades of red and orange beginning to peek through the green.

In the Thousand Islands-Seaway region, St. Lawrence County observers in Madrid expect up to 10% color change this weekend, with muted shades of yellow, orange, and red.

Fall colors are just beginning to appear in the Catskills, in Delaware County. Spotters in Delhi predict 5%-15% color change this weekend, with some orange and yellow leaves or varying brilliance. Spotters in the communities of Bloomville and Hamden also predict up to 15% color change, with some yellow and orange leaves.

In the Chautauqua-Allegheny region, leaves are just beginning to change in Chautauqua County, and up to 10% color change is predicted for some areas by the weekend. At Chautauqua Institution, travelers will find slight color changes with some orange, red and yellow leaves of average brilliance. Similar changes will also be found in Jamestown and in the northern portion of the county along Lake Erie, as well as in the Amish communities of Sherman and Findley Lake.

Volunteer as a Leaf Peeper

The I Love NY team of volunteer Leaf Peepers, located throughout the states 11 vacation regions, are tasked with keeping track of the color change in their area as leaves progress each week. The information is then used for fall foliage reports, which are posted online each week, featuring a detailed map of color change throughout New York state, vantage points for viewing spectacular foliage and suggested autumn getaways.

About the report

The weekly foliage report, a detailed map charting fall color progress, vantage points for viewing spectacular foliage, suggested autumn getaways and weekly event listings is available by visiting the I Love NY website at iloveny.com/foliage. Reports are also available by dialing, toll-free, 1-800-CALL-NYS (1-800-225-5697) from anywhere in the U.S., its territories and Canada.
The death toll in Libyas coastal city of Derna has soared to 11,300 as search efforts continue following a massive flood fed by the breaching of two dams in heavy rains, the Libyan Red Crescent said.

Marie el-Drese, secretary-general of the aid group, told The Associated Press that a further 10,100 people are reported missing in the Mediterranean city.

Health authorities had previously put the death toll in Derna at 5,500.

The flooding swept away entire families on Sunday night and exposed vulnerabilities in the oil-rich country, which has been mired in conflict since a 2011 uprising that toppled long-ruling dictator Muammar Gaddafi.

The flooded city of Derna, Libya (Muhammad J Elalwany/AP)

Daniel, an unusually strong Mediterranean storm, caused deadly flooding in towns across eastern Libya, but the worst-hit was Derna.

As the storm pounded the coast on Sunday night, residents said they heard loud explosions when two dams outside the city collapsed.

Floodwaters gushed down Wadi Derna, a valley that cuts through the city, crashing through buildings and washing people out to sea.

A UN official said on Thursday that most casualties could have been avoided.

If there would have been a normal operating meteorological service, they could have issued the warnings, World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) head Petteri Taalas told reporters in Geneva.

The emergency management authorities would have been able to carry out the evacuation.

The WMO said earlier this week that the National Meteorological Centre had issued warnings 72 hours before the flooding, notifying all governmental authorities by email and through media.

Officials in eastern Libya warned the public about the coming storm and on Saturday had ordered residents to evacuate areas along the coast, fearing a surge from the sea.

Damage after the flooding in Derna (Yousef Murad/AP)

But there was no warning about the dams collapsing.

The startling devastation reflected the storms intensity, but also Libyas vulnerability.

Oil-rich Libya has been divided between rival governments for most of the past decade  one in the east, the other in the capital Tripoli  and one result has been widespread neglect of infrastructure.

The two dams that collapsed outside Derna were built in the 1970s.

A report by a state-run audit agency in 2021 said the dams had not been maintained despite the allocation of more than two million euros for that purpose in 2012 and 2013.

Libyas Tripoli-based Prime Minister Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah acknowledged the maintenance issues in a Cabinet meeting on Thursday and called on the public prosecutor to open an urgent investigation into the dams collapse.

The disaster brought a rare moment of unity, as government agencies across the country rushed to help the affected areas.

While the Tobruk-based government of east Libya is leading relief efforts, the Tripoli-based western government allocated the equivalent of 412 million dollars (332 million) for reconstruction in Derna and other eastern towns, and an armed group in Tripoli sent a convoy with humanitarian aid.

Floodwaters from Mediterranean Storm Daniel (Jamal Alkomaty/AP)

Derna has begun burying its dead, mostly in mass graves, said eastern Libyas health minister Othman Abduljaleel earlier on Thursday.

More than 3,000 bodies were buried by Thursday morning, the minister said, while another 2,000 were still being processed.

He said most of the dead were buried in mass graves outside Derna, while others were transferred to nearby towns and cities.

Mr Abduljaleel said rescue teams were still searching wrecked buildings in the city centre, and divers were combing the sea off Derna.

Untold numbers could be buried under drifts of mud and debris, including overturned cars and chunks of concrete, that rise up to four metres (13ft) high.

Libyas eastern based parliament, the House of Representatives, approved on Thursday an emergency budget of 10 billion Libyan dinars  roughly two billion dollars (1.6 billion)  to address the flooding and help those affected.

Rescuers have struggled to bring in heavy equipment as the floods washed out or blocked roads leading to the area.

The Libyan Red Crescent said on Thursday that 11,300 people have been killed, and a further 10,100 are reported missing.

The flooded city of Derna (Muhammad J Elalwany/AP)

Local officials suggested that the death toll could be much higher than announced.

In comments to the Saudi-owned Al Arabia television station, Derna mayor Abdel-Moneim al-Ghaithi said the tally could climb to 20,000 given the number of neighbourhoods that were washed out.

The storm also killed around 170 people in other parts of eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Um Razaz and Marj, the health minister said.

The dead in eastern Libya included at least 84 Egyptians, who were transferred to their home country on Wednesday.

More than 70 came from one village in the southern province of Beni Suef.

Libyan media also said dozens of Sudanese migrants were killed in the disaster.

The floods have also displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, according to the UNs International Organisation for Migration, and several thousand others were forced to leave their homes in other eastern towns, it said.

The floods damaged or destroyed many access roads to Derna, hampering the arrival of international rescue teams and humanitarian assistance.

People look for survivors in Derna (Yousef Murad/AP)

Local authorities were able to clear some routes, and over the past 48 hours humanitarian convoys have been able to enter the city.

The UN humanitarian office issued an emergency appeal for 71.4 million dollars (57.5 million) to respond to urgent needs of 250,000 Libyans most affected.

The humanitarian office, known as OCHA, estimated that approximately 884,000 people in five provinces live in areas directly affected by the rain and flooding.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said on Thursday it has provided 6,000 body bags to local authorities, as well as medical, food and other supplies distributed to hard-hit communities.

International aid started to arrive earlier this week in Benghazi, 250 kilometres (150 miles) west of Derna.

Several countries have sent aid and rescue teams, including neighbouring Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia.

Italy dispatched a naval vessel on Thursday carrying humanitarian aid and two navy helicopters to be used for search and rescue operations.

President Joe Biden said the United States would send money to relief organisations and co-ordinate with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support.
Belgium said on Thursday it would review potential health risks linked to Apple's iPhone 12, raising the prospect that more European countries might ban the model after France ordered a halt to sales due to breaches of radiation exposure limits.

However, there seemed to be no immediate prospect of an EU-wide ban as the European Commission said it would wait for feedback from other EU countries before deciding on any action.

European Union member states, which were notified by the French regulator on Wednesday, have three months to provide comments. Some, such as Italy, said they would take no steps for now.

Apple contests the French findings, saying the iPhone 12 - now a relatively old model launched in 2020 - was certified by multiple international bodies as compliant with radiation standards.

Researchers have conducted a vast number of studies over the last two decades to assess the health risk of mobile phones. According to the World Health Organisation, no adverse health effects have been established as being caused by their use.

Mathieu Michel, Belgium's state secretary for digitalisation told Reuters that the Belgian regulator was looking into the matter after the French moves.

"We immediately asked the IBPT (Belgian Institute for Postal Services and Telecommunications) for confirmation, or at least an analysis, and this is currently under way," he said.

Michel also asked the regulator to review all Apple smartphones, and devices made by others, at a later stage.

However, he stressed that European standards were extremely cautious and there were no immediate safety concerns.

"So that's why today it's obviously a limit which is being crossed (according to the French regulator) and that's not acceptable, but in terms of health and safety, I don't think there's any reason to think that we're all going to turn into little green men."

The iPhone 12 had passed the radiation test conducted by the French agency in 2021.

Germany's network regulator BNetzA reiterated that the work in France could act as a guide for Europe as a whole and that it would examine the issue for the German market if the process in France had progressed sufficiently.

MONITORING The Dutch digital watchdog also said it was looking into the matter and would ask the U.S. firm for an explanation, while stressing there was "no acute safety risk".

Italy's industry ministry, meanwhile, said it was monitoring the situation but not taking any action for now.

Portugal's telecommunications regulator ANACOM said it was monitoring and analysing developments in coordination with France, and expected one of the two likely outcomes: Apple correcting the situation or, failing that, Brussels telling EU member states "to adopt proportional measures".

Britain, where the iPhone 12 met radiation safety standards when it was released, has not announced any plans in the wake of France's decision.

Industry experts said there were no safety risks as regulatory limits, based on the risk of burns or heatstroke from the phone's radiation, were set well below levels where scientists have found evidence of harm.

Apple's revenues totalled about $95 billion in Europe last year, making the region its second biggest behind the Americas. Some estimates say it sold more than 50 million iPhones last year in Europe.

Apple, which does not break out its sales by country or model, launched the iPhone 15 on Tuesday and the three-year old iPhone 12 is not available to buy from Apple online in France and other European countries. It can, however, be bought from third parties, including Amazon France.

"Limiting iPhone 12 sales, in and of itself, should not be that impactful for iPhone. We would be more concerned if newer models were involved," DA Davidson analyst Tom Forte said.

Forte said that Apple could face bigger problems elsewhere, such as potential curbs on the use of iPhones in China and new data regulations in Europe.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected at the White House and on Capitol Hill next week as he visits the US during the United Nations General Assembly.

Mr Zelenskys trip comes as Congress is debating President Joe Bidens request to provide as much as 21 billion dollars (17 billion) in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine as it fights the Russian invasion.

An administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive visit, said Mr Zelensky will meet with Mr Biden at the White House next Thursday.

The trip to the Capitol was confirmed by two congressional aides granted anonymity to discuss the plans.

The Ukrainian president made a wartime visit to Washington in December 2022 and delivered an impassioned address to a joint meeting of Congress. At the time, it was his first known trip outside his country since Russia invaded in February of that year.

In his speech to cheering lawmakers, Mr Zelensky thanked Americans for helping to fund the war effort and said that the money is not charity, but an investment in global security and democracy.

Details of Mr Zelenskys visit next week were not yet being made public.

The White House National Security Council declined to comment on Mr Zelenskys plans, including whether he would meet with Mr Biden at the White House.

Congress is increasingly divided over providing additional funding for Ukraine as the war is well into its second year. Mr Biden has sought a package of 13 billion dollars in additional military aid for Ukraine and eight billion dollars for humanitarian support.

But conservative Republican lawmakers have been pushing for broad federal spending cuts and some of those allied with Donald Trump, the former president, are specifically looking to stop money to Ukraine.

Congress is working to pass its annual appropriations bills before a September 30 deadline to keep the US government running.
The junta has started sending fully armed soldiers to supermarkets, convenience stores and pubs in Yangon to force them to sell Myanmar Beer because the military-controlled conglomerate that makes it is suffering mounting losses from a nationwide boycott, according to residents and shop and bar owners of the countrys commercial capital.

The consumer boycott extends to other products made by military-linked companies, but the downfall of Myanmar Beer appears to have gotten under the generals skin.

Consumers have shunned products linked to military-controlled companies since the 2021 coup. The products include cigarettes and beverages like Myanmar Beer, which had been a sizzling popular brand before the coup.

Anti-regime resistance groups and ethnic armed organizations have also banned the sale of junta-linked products in territory they control across the country.

The beer boycott, however, provoked a backlash from the junta this week.

On the afternoon of September 12, a contingent of regime personnel from the General Administration Department (GAD) and Yangon City Development Committee (YCDC) led by the juntas military column commander from Thingangyun Township began threatening owners of convenience stores who were not selling Myanmar Beer.

The major  asked why we were not selling Myanmar Beer. I said we dont sell it because people are not buying it, said a franchiser of a corner store in Thingangyun Township.

The major was angered by the reply and ordered the store owner to not only sell Myanmar Beer but also showcase cans and bottles of the brand. An official from the YCDC also warned the store owner that its license would be revoked if it did not resume selling Myanmar Beer.

Stores have been pressured by teams of junta officials since September 12 to sell products from junta-controlled companies, according to staff from City Express, G&G convenience stores, and residents of four townships: Thingangyun, South Dagon, South Okkalapa, and Botahtaung.

The City Express in my street is now back selling Myanmar Beer. It is a challenge from the junta against us, so people also have to show our strength by boycotting stores that are back selling Myanmar Beer, said a 29-year-old resident in Botahtaung Township.

Junta troops and officials have also threatened and forced supermarkets, including City Mart, restaurants, and bars, to resume selling Myanmar Beer.

They began patrolling the middle block of Street 19 in Chinatown at around 6:30pm on September 13. The block is popular for its rows of barbecue and beer pubs.

One pub owner said, They entered our pub because we just sell Tiger. They told us to sell Myanmar Beer, either draft or by showcasing cans and bottles. They also warned us that if we dont sell it, they will revoke our alcohol license.

A franchiser of a store in South Okkalapa said armed troops accompanied officials demanding stores sell Myanmar Beer. The officers from the YCDC, township GAD, and police informed us that they will return to check  We have tried our best to refrain from selling [military-linked products], especially Myanmar Beer, but when they arrived with fully armed military troops we were shocked.

For years, Myanmar Beer dominated bars and supermarket shelves, its Japanese backing a sign of the economic liberalization washing into Myanmar after the military relaxed its iron grip on power in 2011.

But after the generals ousted Daw Aung San Suu Kyis civilian government in February 2021, many turned their backs on the brew, along with a host of other goods made by companies linked to the military, from soap to coffee.

In June 2022, Japanese drinks giant Kirin said it had agreed to a buyout of its shares in a Myanmar joint venture with a junta-linked conglomerate, completing its exit from the market over the 2021 coup.

Days after the putsch in February 2021, Kirin announced it would end its joint venture Myanmar Brewery with junta-controlled Myanma Economic Holdings Limited (MEHL), saying it was deeply concerned by the recent actions of the military in Myanmar.

But Kirin struggled to disentangle itself from the secretive conglomerate and contested a bid by MEHL to dissolve the joint venture as it feared liquidation proceedings would be unfair.

The threats and forcible efforts of the junta to revive sales of its Myanmar Beer and other products produced by military-tied conglomerates and companies followed a boycott launched several weeks ago by U Min Ko Naing, a prominent pro-democracy activist. He called on people within and outside Myanmar to open a new front in the war against the junta by boycotting eight products produced by companies it controls.

He said the boycott would help cut off funding to a regime that is using the money made from the sale of its products to massacre its own people.

The time has come for us to launch a war on the financial and economic [front] at the highest level, which will cut off all sources of income of the terrorist [junta], said U Min Ko Naing, a leader of the 88 generation.

The eight products requested by him and other revolutionary actors to boycott are Myanmar Beer, Andaman Gold Beverages, Dagon Beer and Beverages, Mandalay beer and rum, Black Shield Stout Beer, Army Rum, Red Ruby cigarettes, and Premium Gold cigarettes.

In response to that call, the juntas military council started issuing warnings to the public in the first week of September, warning people not to participate in the boycott.

However, residents from different townships in Yangon widely agreed that even if the junta puts pressure on stores, it will be ineffective if people remain united in boycotting the products.

What would they do if no one bought Myanmar beer or any of their products? asked a 45-year-old taxi driver who stopped drinking Myanmar beer after the coup.

On September 8, the GAD and Township Development Committee in Ayerwaddy Regions Nyaung Tone Township fined at least at least 30 liquor shops and beer pubs 1 million kyats each for not selling Myanmar beer.

This week, the juntas military and regime officers also began putting pressure on supermarkets, stores and mini-marts to force them to sell SIM cards from military-owned telecom operator Mytel.

City Mart, the biggest supermarket chain in the country, began showcasing Myanmar Beer and other military-linked products, including MyTel SIM cards, this week. City Mart outlets stopped showcasing or even selling them in late 2021 due to the calls from consumers to boycott them.
Tourists from China and India will be allowed to receive visas on arrival to enter Myanmar in a bid to revive the countrys severely depressed tourism market, according to a plan announced by the juntas Ministry of Hotel and Tourism.

The date the new visa system will begin has not been announced, but the ministry said it would be a one-year pilot project and that Covid-19 rules and regulations for entering the country would be imposed. These regulations have been dropped in Thailand and other Southeast Asia destinations popular with Chinese and Indian tourists.

The countrys tourism industry has been on the decline since the onset of the pandemic in 2020. It deteriorated further following the 2021 coup.

About 4.3 million foreign tourists visited Myanmar in 2019. The number fell to 230,000 in 2022.

A tour operator in Yangon said almost no western tourists visit Myanmar but some arrive on tourist visas from other Asian countries.

Another tour operator was sceptical that allowing visas on arrival to a country at war that is also experiencing a currency crisis would entice tourists.

Tourists will not choose a country that is more expensive than other countries and has no stability, the tour operator told The Irrawaddy. Estimating the number of tourist arrivals is difficult because it depends on a countrys political stability, the source added.

The juntas Ministry of Hotel and Tourism is attempting to tap the tourism markets of Russia, China and India. Direct flights between Myanmar and Russias third largest city, Novosibirsk, began operating on September 5.

Hotel and Tourism minister Thet Thet Khaing told a meeting in early September that the ministry is planning to ease visa restrictions to attract more tourists.

She also urged the tourism officials to prepare in advance for the development of tourism in border areas.

Myanmar allowed Chinese tourists to enter through the visa-on-arrival system in 2018 and 2019, but it was suspended in early 2020 due to the pandemic.

The ministry said it will announce the date of the implementation of its visa on arrival pilot project for China and India soon.
Myanmars military regime has detained and questioned crony Thein Win Zaw, who has close ties to junta boss Min Aung Hlaings family, amid a crackdown over surging commodity prices, according to business owners.

A business owner in the oil industry told The Irrawaddy: [The regime] raided Shwe Byain Phyu Co head office in Yangon on Tuesday. Almost all members of the Myanmar Petroleum Trade Association have now gone into hiding.

Thein Win Zaw is the owner of Shwe Byain Phyu Co (SBP), which has interests in gas stations, gem mining, telecoms and logging. The company is one of the regimes top taxpayers.

SBP was established in 1996 while Myanmar was ruled by former military dictator Than Shwe. It operates in partnership with the military-owned Myanmar Economic Holdings Ltd in mining and the import and distribution of fuel.

Thein Win Zaw has allegedly amassed a fortune from the large-scale smuggling of fuel by sea via southern Myanmars Tanintharyi Region and Mon State, and has close links with successive chiefs of the Myanmar Navy.

SBP also has a stake in the Myanmar subsidiary of Norwegian telecoms giant Telenor, now known as ATOM.

In August, SBP subsidiary Shwe Byain Phyu Oil and Gas Co Ltd was liquidated under Myanmars Insolvency Law amid sanctions from the West.

The regime has also been questioning other fuel importers and distributors, and has even asked those visiting foreign countries to return immediately.

The detention of Thein Win Zaw followed the arrest of junta trade chief Brig-Gen Yan Naung Soe on September 7. The same day saw business leaders and members of the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry brought to Naypyitaw for interrogation, according to sources.

Among the business owners detained for interrogation were importers and distributors of fuel and of edible oil, exporters of rice, beans and pulses, and corn, and senior officials from private banks.

Ninety percent of the business owners who made donations for the Maravijaya Buddha statue have been detained for interrogation, said a business owner. The Irrawaddy could not independently verify his claim.

Hundreds of business owners, cronies and ex-generals contributed more than 30 billion kyats to the colossal Buddha statue built by Min Aung Hlaing in Naypyitaw in June and July.

The arrests came after the regime held a press conference to announce that soaring food prices were due to market manipulation by unscrupulous businesspeople.

Exporters, importers and some banks are selling commodities that they bought at the official exchange rate of 2,100 kyats per dollar for prices calculated at the market rate, said junta spokesman Major General Zaw Min Tun. The exchange rate in the market is around 3,600 kyats per dollar.

Many of those detained had reportedly bribed Lieutenant-General Moe Myint Tun, who chairs the Foreign Exchange Supervisory Committee, a junta body with backroom control of not only the Central Bank of Myanmar but also of any dollar expenditures in the country. The committee also issues export and import licenses.

Moe Myint Tun is the sixth most powerful general in the current regime after junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, deputy junta chief Soe Win, General Maung Maung Aye, Navy chief Admiral Moe Aung and Air Force chief General Tun Aung. He also chairs the Myanmar Investment Commission.

His right-hand man, Yan Naung Soe, is among those who have been arrested and interrogated. Yan Naung Soe served as secretary in the juntas Central Committee on Ensuring Smooth Flow of Trade and Goods, which is chaired by Moe Myint Tun.

Importers need approval from the committee to buy dollars from the Central Bank of Myanmar at the official exchange rate. Importers therefore had to seek the favor of the two officials to secure permits and buy the greenback at the official exchange rate.

Yan Naung Soe has been scapegoated as the corruption scandals unfold. In fact, Yan Naung Soe can do nothing without Moe Myint Tuns knowledge, a business owner told The Irrawaddy on condition of anonymity.

The task of interrogating business owners has been handed to the juntas military intelligence agency, officially known as Office of the Chief of Military Security Affairs. The agency has reportedly told business owners to give honest answers about their dealings with Yan Naung Soe.

A source in Naypyitaw said an importer told interrogators that he had to hand over 1,000 tonnes of palm oil and US$ 100,000 per month to facilitate his business.

Meanwhile, retired Lieutenant General Nyo Saw has been brought in to cover for Yan Naung Soe in the Central Committee on Ensuring Smooth Flow of Trade and Goods.
Three men were allegedly gunned down by Myanmar junta troops in Myingyan Township, Mandalay Region. on Tuesday, following the killing of a regime-appointed village administrator.

Gyoke Pin villagers said they heard gunshots on Tuesday night and the bodies of three men were found in a field on Wednesday morning.

We all were too scared to investigate and there is a nighttime curfew, a villager said.

Sources said three vehicles of junta soldiers and three ambulances arrived at the scene early on Wednesday.

We saw one of the men was still alive when the troops took the bodies, a witness said.

Villagers said they could not identify the victims but said they were killed because of the administrators assassination.

The Irrawaddy is unable to verify their claims.

The Gyoke Pin administrator was killed by unknown resistance members on Sunday evening.

No group has claimed responsibility.

Gyoke Pin villagers reported a similar incident in late 2022.

Last year we found three unidentified male bodies near our village after a junta informant was shot dead by resistance forces in the village, a villager said.

Gyoke Pin has around 600 households and is in junta-held territory on the Myingyan-Nyaung U Road in Myingyan Township.

Junta troops killed five Myingyan resistance members near Yon Htoe village in June.

Rights group the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners has recorded more than 4,000 civilian deaths across Myanmar since the 2021 coup.
Junta forces killed two people including a resistance member and arrested 13 other people during a series of raids in Magwe Regions Myaing Township that began early this month following the arrival of a junta platoon.

A member of Myaing Peoples Defense Force (PDF) was killed by junta troops during a predawn raid on Kan Gyi Yoe Village on Saturday.

He was shot dead when he tried to escape with his father. His house was immediately seized by junta troops shortly after they advanced on the village, a representative of Myaing PDF said.

His father narrowly escaped being captured by junta troops, he added.

Eight village residents were also arrested during the junta raid on Saturday.

Another three people were captured before junta troops raided Kan Gyi Yoe Village. We dont know their identities yet, a resistance member said.

The junta battalion raided Chaung U To Village later that day and then stationed itself at Yin Ma Kyin Village during the night. It seized a resistance camp in Thin Paung Kan Village the next day, destroying a vehicle and several motorcycles.

There were no reported casualties as resistance forces fled the camp in advance.

However, an 18-year-old boy and his father were arrested and tortured by junta troops in Thin Paung Kan Village on Monday, but both were later released, sources said.

Detainees were reportedly used as human shields and forced to carry heavy baggage.

Resistance forces confirmed that one of the detainees was killed by junta troops on Monday, while the fate of the remaining 10 detainees remains unknown.

In an earlier incident, another 11 detainees captured by junta troops in April, remain missing and are presumed dead, according to the Myaing PDF.

On Wednesday, junta infantry looted Kone Village and loaded the stolen items and food onto a truck to transport to Wet Poke Village, which is controlled by a pro-junta militia.

More than 10 clashes erupted in Myaing after a column of 200 junta troops from Pakokku were dispatched to the township in early September.

At least six junta troops were reportedly killed and another six were injured in drone attacks and landmine ambushes conducted by resistance forces.

The Irrawaddy was unable to verify the casualty figures.

Nearly 1,000 residents from three villages near Wet Poke Village were displaced on Wednesday.
Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia refused to attend an annual Air Chiefs Conference chaired by Myanmars regime this week.

Singapore and the Philippines only sent video messages to share their views on ASEAN Air Forces Cooperation for Sustainable Environment with Malaysia and Indonesia ignoring the event.

The annual conference gathers air force leaders from 10-nation ASEAN to discuss cooperation in defense, combating extremism and disaster relief.

However, only five air force commanders attended the 20th ASEAN Air Chiefs Conference in Naypyitaw on Wednesday.

Representatives from Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam attended.

Myanmars domestic opposition and advocacy group Justice for Myanmar urged ASEAN to snub the conference.

Junta air force chief Tun Aung, who chaired the conference, is held responsible for many deadly airstrikes, including on Pazi Gyi and Let Yet Kone village in Sagaing Region and Hpakant Township in Kachin State, which left hundreds dead, including children. The general is sanctioned by the US and UK.

Tun Aung also held separate talks with five ASEAN counterparts but the details are unknown.

Tun Aung handed over the chairmanship to Cambodia.

Tun Aungs wife Tin Moe Nwe took the chiefs wives to the colossal new Maravijaya Buddha statue commissioned by junta boss Min Aung Hlaing.

Myanmar hosted the annual conference for the first time in 2014 under Thein Seins quasi-civilian government with full attendance.

A group photo of the five ASEAN air force chiefs was published in the junta media.
Junta Foreign Minister Than Swe flew to the Russian capital Moscow on Tuesday for a working visit at the invitation of his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov. He is the fifth junta minister to visit Russia in a week, in addition to two Union-level officials.

On Sept. 5, junta mouthpiece The Global New Light of Myanmar and Russias state-owned Sputnik International News Media signed a content-sharing agreement. The same day, the two countries launched direct flights, the first in more than 30 years.

Than Swe, who was part of the 16th intake of the Defense Services Academy and served as Myanmars ambassador to the US under Thein Seins quasi-civilian government, took the Yangon-Mandalay-Novosibirsk flight on Tuesday. The direct Myanmar-Russia flight will operate twice a week, every Tuesday and Saturday.

The foreign minister will be visiting Russia until Sept. 17. Junta media did not provide details about what Than Swe will be working on during the visit, however.

Than Swe will also visit Belarus at the invitation of his Belarusian counterpart Sergei Aleinik. Russia and Belarus are key arms suppliers of the regime. In October last year, the US imposed sanctions against three Myanmar arms dealers who help buy weapons from Belarus for the regime.

Junta-appointed Union Election Commission chair Thein Soe began the recent flurry of visits to Russia, visiting the country to observe local polls and sign a memorandum of understanding with Russias election body during his visit from Sept. 6-12.

Junta Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Mya Tun Oo, Investment Minister Dr. Kan Zaw, Industry Minister Charlie Than, Tourism Minister Thet Thet Khine, and Central Bank of Myanmar Governor Than Than Swe attended the Eastern Economic Forum from Sept. 10-13.

The junta ministers discussed the use of Mir cards for direct payments between Myanmar and Russia, as well as developing tourism between the two countries.

At the event, Charlie Than criticized the British for heavily exploiting Myanmars natural resources during colonial rule. He was also quoted by Russias state-owned media RIA as saying that two Su-30 fighters ordered from Russia had arrived in Myanmar, the first batch in a larger order.

Myanmar and Russia will soon sign an agreement for direct payments in rubles and kyats for oil trades between the two countries, said Dr. Kan Zaw.

The juntas new defense minister, General Tin Aung San, also visited Russia last month to attend a military technical forum and the 11th Moscow Conference on International Security. Junta boss Min Aung Hlaing, who has visited Russia three times since his February 2021 coup, delivered a video address to the conference, claiming that his regime now has control over large parts of the country.

During Tin Aung Sans trip, his Russian counterpart unveiled the Myanmar Fighters Monument in Moscow to honor Myanmar soldiers who fought in World War II. The monument serves as a tribute to the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and Myanmar, symbolizing the strengthened ties in bilateral friendship and cooperation, the Russian defense minister was quoted as saying by junta media.
AUBURN  While the poverty was simulated, the people's reactions to the difficulties they faced were real.

That's what Kathryn Dennis, executive director of the United Way of Cayuga County, said after a Community Action Poverty Simulation held Wednesday morning at the Booker T. Washington Community Center in Auburn. She and about 70 others with local social services organizations participated in the simulation, pretending to be people in poverty. They cycled through stations representing their workplace, home and bank, with limited resources at their disposal and volunteers pretending to be bosses, police officers and bankers guiding or, sometimes, reprimanding them.

Dennis told The Citizen after the event that the experience could be jarring. At one point she was late for "work," and was chastised.

"It made me feel bad. It was a simulation, but I felt like I was getting yelled at," Dennis said. "I genuinely said, 'Sorry.' It was really strange, and two late arrivals at work and you're fired. You feel bad."

Following the simulation, participants gathered in a large circle for a discussion. Sharing their experiences that morning, many emphasized the importance of empathizing with their clients.

Amy Mahunik, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction for the Auburn Enlarged City School District, said many faculty and staff have not experienced the same level of poverty as some of their students. But the district has held professional development training about empathy and challenges facing economically disadvantaged students, who comprise 60% of Auburn's student body.

Michelle Milewski, a marketing specialist for Cayuga Centers, said it was interesting to see how many participants were getting frustrated "within the first 10 minutes of the exercise."

The difficulties in the simulation are realities that people in the community face regularly, Milewski continued.

Sydney Stull, a marketing and campaign assistant with United Way, told The Citizen after the event that her role in the simulation was a child whose father was in jail and whose mother wasn't around. While in the station representing her school, Stull found herself wanting to help the person pretending to be her older sibling. Stull said it was surprising to see poverty from the perspective of a child.

April Miles, president and CEO of East Hill Medical Center in Auburn, said many of the center's employees were at the event, as they often help people in poverty.

"We want to find ways to help, and it's not just about offering medical care," she said. "It's looking at the whole person. So we think bringing people together and having us experience portions of it on a small level allows us to remember so that when we have a patient in front of us, we can also think about all the other services they can be getting and help to connect them to those services."

Miles, who had the role of a single mother trying to find a job while her son was also looking for one, said the event was educational for her as an employer as well.

"When we're looking at our own employees, some of them are experiencing these same things that we looked at today," she said, citing the need for flexibility in supporting them.

The poverty simulation was planned by the community center, United Way, East Hill and Community Action Programs Cayuga/Seneca.

Gallery: Auburn event helps participants better understand people living in poverty
Myanmars ousted National League for Democracy (NLD) is worried about jailed State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyis health as the junta deprives her of medical care.

A statement on Thursday expressed particular concern that the party leader is not receiving adequate medical care and the junta is not providing healthy food nor sufficient comfort to keep her alive.

If her health is impaired and her life endangered, the junta is solely responsible, said the NLD.

At 78, her mental and physical health needs special attention, the statement said.

The junta reportedly released her from solitary confinement in Naypyitaw Prison for house arrest in July. Later she was sent back to prison.

The Nobel Laureate was unwell recently, suffering from serious toothache and was unable to eat, along with vomiting and dizziness.

VOA Burmese reported that her request to see her dentist was denied by the prison authorities but she received some medication.

Her son Kim Aris (in Burmese Htein Linn) recently told the media he worried about his mothers health after learning that she has not been provided with proper healthcare.

Kin told Reuters: She is not as robust as she once was. If she is unable to eat, then things are not looking very hopeful.

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi was sentenced to 33 years in prison for several offensives during closed regime trials. She was seized on February 1, 2021, during the coup against her elected government. She denied all the charges. The regime cut six years from her sentence as part of a general amnesty in early August.

The NLD said the junta is detaining her in secret places without giving her any of the rights of a political prisoner.

The party requested international organizations, including the United Nations and ASEAN, and revolutionary forces push for the release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and all other political prisoners.

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi took over the NLD in 1988 and won a landslide victory in the 1990 general election that was subsequently annulled by the then-junta.

The NLD later won crushing victories over military-backed parties in elections in 2015 and 2020.

Since the 2021 coup, 4,075 people have been killed and another 24,765, including NLD members, government leaders and anti-military protesters, have been detained by the junta, the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners that monitors the arrests and deaths reported on Wednesday.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is creating waves in the global discourse, generating excitement and anxiety in equal measure.

Some analysts foresee AI causing mass turmoil across the job market, human relationships, and the value placed on creativity. Others view it as a powerful tool to augment human work and tackle global challenges like inclusion, access and productivity.

A leader in AI standardization from ISO and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is the winner of this years Lawrence D. Eicher Leadership Award (LDE) for excellence in standards development. The LDE Award will be presented to Wael William Diab, Chair, and Heather Benko, Committee Manager, from joint technical committee ISO/IEC JTC 1/SC 42 at the ISO Annual Meeting in Brisbane, Australia, taking place on 18-22 September 2023.

The joint committee on AI is being honoured for their effective leadership, innovative approaches and proactive management and best practice in developing standards for this rapidly evolving technology. By providing business leaders and policymakers with the tools to establish responsible, ethical procedures, these foundational standards will provide long-term value through optimization and risk mitigation.

Innovation for all

The committees purpose is to build a holistic view of how AI will be developed, implemented and monitored. Our goal is to support the broad and responsible adoption of AI, commented Diab. International Standards play a crucial role by bridging the gap between societal obligations, regulatory requirements and industry innovation.

Ensuring that AI technologies are developed and used responsibly is critical to addressing global challenges and accelerating progress towards a more sustainable, equitable and inclusive world. The committee unites a diverse array of global stakeholders from 59 countries, ranging from those deeply engaged in development, to those overseeing regulations to those seeking to leverage AI technology.

Keeping pace with innovation

Although AIs trajectory remains unknown, its impact is already tangible. How can we ensure that technology with such tremendous potential contributes to the development of our world in a positive way? Constructive, open and productive conversations are essential. Establishing International Standards allows all key actors in the AI ecosystem  from developers to regulators to end users  to speak the same language.

Creating regulatory tools and a shared framework requires time, expertise and collaboration. As AI becomes more integrated into business processes and individual life, these standards will play a pivotal role in balancing the possible risks with the potential rewards. With a common frame of reference, we can ensure the technology is ethical, effective and inclusive.

Celebrating excellence

Every year, the prestigious Lawrence D. Eicher Leadership Award provides recognition for superior performance by one of the ISO standards development groups. Inaugurated in 2003, this award is named in honour of ISOs late Secretary-General, Lawrence D. Eicher, whose 16-year tenure at ISO (1986-2002) saw the organization evolve from an institution with a predominantly technological focus to a market-oriented organization. ISO standards are increasingly recognized as bringing, in addition to solutions to technical problems, wider social and economic benefits.

Get inspired by Wael at the session on artificial intelligence taking place at the ISO Annual Meeting 2023. Meet him in person in Brisbane or register here to join online!
Thursday, Sep 14th, 2023 (10:19 am) - Score 2,952

Telecoms and UK broadband giant BT Group has joined forces with Iceotope to conduct an industry first trial of precision liquid cooled network switches, which will be applied to their Juniper Network QFX Series switches. In theory, this could substantially improve their energy consumption and efficiency metrics.

Admittedly, anybody who works in IT or has experience building computers knows that liquid cooling of CPUs and other computer parts is nothing new. But its less common to see this in network switches, even though Iceotope has been plugging such technology since as far back as 2015, albeit often with companies other than Juniper.

NOTE: This trial forms part of This trial forms part of BT s commitment to become Net Zero by the end of March 2031 (i.e. remove as many carbon emissions as they produce).

At present its much more common to see network operators like BT deploy cooling systems using air-based solutions, but these do tend to use a fair bit of energy and BT predicts that the power needed to cool all their network kit will only increase with time (systems get more efficient over time too, but demand and capabilities also rise).

Liquid cooling is thus seen as one way to potentially tackle this issue and reduce costs in the process. BT is therefore exploring numerous alternative cooling techniques and in addition to its trial with Iceotope and Juniper, the company will trial the following liquid cooling systems, which are being demonstrated at their Sustainability Festival.

BTs Liquid Cooling Trials  Precision Liquid Cooled networking servers and data centre equipment, with Iceotope and Juniper  Full immersion of networking servers in an immersion tank, with Immersion4  Liquid-cooled cold plates of networking equipment in a cooling enclosure, with Nexalus  Cooling using sprayed-on partial immersion of data centre equipment, with Airsys.

BT Group expects that several different cooling solutions could eventually be deployed, depending on specific location and operational requirements. The trials will aim to establish which solutions are optimal for each scenario, and the extent of potential energy savings.

Maria Cuevas, BTs Networks Research Director, said: As the UKs largest provider of fixed-line broadband and mobile services in the UK, it isnt a surprise that over 90% of our overall energy consumption  and nearly 95% of our electricity  comes from our networks. In a world of advancing technology and growing data demands, its critical that we continue to innovate for energy efficiency solutions. Liquid cooling for network and IT infrastructure is one part of a much bigger jigsaw but is an area were very excited to explore with our technology partners.

Typically, the new techniques are said to bring several benefits, including a 40-50% reduction in power needed to cool systems vs. air cooling, higher equipment densitysaving on real estate footprint (and therefore further power usage reductions), and reduced material usagereducing carbon footprint.

Further, rather than heat dissipated into the air, liquid cooling systems can channel exhausted heat to be reused to heat other parts of a building (in fairness, you can do that with air cooling too, but its not as effective and takes up more space). Liquid cooling enabling equipment can also be deployed in more environmentally challenging environments such as areas with more contaminants (i.e. dust, humidity).
Thursday, Sep 14th, 2023 (9:12 am) - Score 4,080

Complaints about the erection of new telegraph poles are nothing new in the UK. But one growing campaign  involving residents of Hedon and South Preston  appears to be taking their dispute with full fibre network builder MS3 to a new level, by organising a 10-year boycott of broadband ISPs that sell their services.

At present MS3, which is backed by investment from Asterion, is busy deploying a 10Gbps capable full fibre (FTTP) broadband ISP network across parts of Lincolnshire and Yorkshire in England. Some 106,000 premises (RFS) have already been covered (c. 150,000 built), but the operator ultimately aims to reach 535,000 premises across the North of England by the end of 2025 (here).

However, in recent weeks, the operator has faced a number of growing street protests from residents and sympathetic councillors in parts of Hedon and South Preston where the new network is currently being deployed. As is so often the case these days, the anger centres around MS3s deployment of telecoms poles to run their new fibre cables.

Building poles, which are a common sight across much of the UK, is usually much more cost-effective and less disruptive to local residents than digging trenches for underground cables. The lower cost impact can often also mean the difference between building into an area or skipping it entirely.

Nevertheless, not everybody is a fan of poles. Complaints often focus on their negative visual appearance, concerns about the risk of damage from major storms (example), and a lack of prior consultation  poles are built via Permitted Development rights and dont have to go through the usual planning process.

In the case of the two aforementioned communities, households are now being asked by the action group Save our Streets  Going Underground to sign-up to a pledge form, declaring their intention to boycott MS3 for at least ten years should the poles be deployed (see the Hedon Blog). An extract from that form can be seen below:

HOUSEHOLD PLEDGE: This household pledges not to use services, delivered by MS3 Networks, via new telegraph poles. Should poles be deployed, this boycott of MS3 Networks and internet service providers (ISPs) that choose to use telegraph poles, shall remain active for ten years from this date and will not be reviewed until October 2033.  This boycott will end upon receipt of a written commitment from the Chief Executive Officer of MS3 Networks that telegraph poles will not be deployed. In the event of telegraph pole deployment, only their removal will see the end of this active boycott. The period of the boycott will see residents and businesses actively encouraged not to sign up to those ISPs that choose to use telegraph poles, favouring instead those ISPs that choose established underground networks. During the period of boycott, all goodwill and friendly relations with boycotted ISPs will cease.

In addition, the group recently launched a national petition to request a change in Government legislation, which much more broadly calls for telecommunication installations in the public realm to go through the local planning process and hopes to gather 10,000 signatures over the next few weeks (so far theyre at around 4,000)  this is enough to attract an official response from the government.

However, the petition goes far beyond poles and would cause a significant delay to deployments of both mobile and full fibre broadband networks (both overground and underground), as well as rising costs that would impact coverage  affecting those in some of the hardest to reach locations the most.

The government would be unlikely to pay this much heed, as any restrictions on the build would seriously damage their own targets for digital infrastructure, while ignoring the many people who are still seeking access to faster broadband and better mobile connectivity. Quite a lot of people would be happy to see poles if it meant they could access full fibre etc.

Tony Jopling, COO at MS3, said previously: MS3s mission is to overcome the challenges local people have endured for decades due to a lack of choice of broadband provider. Our team is keen to work with local residents to help them understand the benefits of both pole and underground infrastructure and how it enables MS3 to offer affordable, faster, fairer broadband to communities. MS3 Networks completes all building work in line with the Electronic Communications Code, Schedule 3A Communications Act 2003 and the voluntary Code of Practice: Cabinet Siting and Pole Siting Code of Practice. This sets out that MS3 is legally permitted to install new infrastructure both above and below ground, providing notice is given. Installing poles will allow us to quickly ensure local residents and business have access to cost savings and choice of broadband provider. MS3 has a comprehensive community engagement strategy to ensure the benefits of pole deployment are understood, and so residents can learn more about the work were doing ahead of its commencement. In addition, we have built relationships with local councils and are in frequent contact with councillors to update them on our build strategy and make them aware of the work we are planning. Our aim is always to create a dialogue between the team at MS3 and the local community, and we are more than happy to answer any questions local people have. We acknowledge that broadband infrastructure in Hull and its surrounding areas is extremely unique, and this comes with its own set of challenges.

Naturally, wed all prefer it if broadband, power and mobile infrastructure was totally invisible, but thats not always economically feasible because underground deployments tend to be significantly more expensive. In some areas, the choice is thus between either having poles or no fibre at all. Its worth remembering that the UK is already home to many millions of poles, including for electricity and street lighting.

Back in 2021 we asked 657 of our readers whether they would accept poles to get FTTP, if the alternative meant having to wait years longer for the service, and 71% said theyd take the poles. More recently, we asked 400 readers if, when looking to buy a new house, the existence of poles in the street outside to carry fibre would be a major negative factor in their decision  77% said no.

However, its also clear that poles have a growing tendency to divide public opinion (examples here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here), particularly when built into an area that previously only enjoyed the benefits of underground infrastructure (this is where most of the gripes come from).

But we have seen some similar campaigns succeed in at least discouraging the deployment of new poles by various operators into specific areas, which is probably the best this campaign can hope to achieve. At the same time, its worth remembering that there will be those in these areas who will miss out on better broadband connectivity as a result.
1371138342::cfb49c8e-2422-11e5-99a3-d7f5c6e8b241

A weekly review of the best and most popular stories published in the Imperial Valley Press. Also, featured upcoming events, new movies at local theaters, the week in photos and much more.
If the National Hurricane Center wants to classify a tropical cyclone beyond Whitney, a supplemental list of names are used.

These names have been in place since 2021. Before 2021, the Greek alphabet was used for additional storms. However, a very active 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season, and the Greek alphabet storm names, brought confusion. This led the World Meteorological Organization to swap those names for this list.
Beijing (Gasgoo)- SAIC Volkswagen officially announced on September 14 that it has entered into a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement with CAR Inc. (Shenzhou Zuche in Chinese pinyin).

Photo credit: SAIC Volkswagen

This partnership extends beyond traditional new car procurement to address a diverse range of user mobility needs. The collaboration aims to enhance the fusion between automotive and travel consumption, offering improved services to both car buyers and rental users.

During the signing ceremony, Mr. Yu Jingmin, Deputy General Manager of Sales and Marketing at SAIC Volkswagen and General Manager of Shanghai SAIC Volkswagen Sales Co., expressed his anticipation for the future collaboration, stating, "We look forward to a deep integration between SAIC Volkswagen and CAR Inc. This partnership will create a mutually beneficial relationship, providing higher-quality services to our shared users."

This expanded partnership between SAIC Volkswagen and CAR Inc. covers various business scenarios, extending beyond new car procurement to encompass areas such as marketing, owner services, and the circulation of used cars.

Both companies will explore new business scenarios, including joint marketing for new vehicles, in-depth test drive experiences, user benefits sharing, as well as maintenance and replacement vehicles, leveraging their respective strengths and resources. The goal is to provide industry-leading services to private car owners and rental users while promoting industry transformation, upgrading, and high-quality development.
Beijing (Gasgoo)- On September 13, Chinese autonomous driving solution provider, Hyperview, announced the completion of its B+ financing round, which raised for the company over one hundred million yuan.

Photo credit: Hyperview

Investors of this round include Hefei Industry Investment Group, Zhongan Capital, and Dianshi Capital, etc. Hyperviews existing shareholder, Properity7 Ventures, also increased its investment in the company during the B+ round.

In May this year, Hyperview disclosed its Series B financing round, which is worth nearly 500 million yuan. The recent B+ round signifies the industrys recognition and support towards Hyperviews technology strength and mass production future. Up to now, the company has bagged more than 600 million yuan in its entire Series B round.

According to Hyperview, proceeds from the latest funding round will be put to boost the R&D of its next-generation ADAS system and advanced autonomous driving solutions, expand its talent pool, as well as facilitate pre-research of future autonomous driving technologies, laying a solid foundation for the companys mass production and large-scale deployment scheme.

Currently, Hyperview is actively developing high-level intelligent driving solutions while diving deeply into the mass production of intelligent driving systems.

Since its establishment, Hyperview has developed leading intelligent camera and domain controller solutions based on Horizon Robotics Journey series chips. The solutions have gone into mass production stage, and are widely approved by customers, said Hyperview.

Currently, Hyperviews products have realized mass production and deployment onto 30 vehicle models from Li Auto, SAIC Motor, Great Wall Motor, Chery, JAC Group, BYD, Hozon Auto, etc. The company has also established cooperation projects with leading Tier1 suppliers in a bid to expand its market reach overseas.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On September 13th, a momentous event unfolded in Changchun city, Jilin province, as FAW Group and Mobileye signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This ceremony marked the commencement of a fresh, collaborative chapter, where both entities will unite their strengths in software, hardware, and technological prowess to seamlessly merge technology and products, delivering a seamless and delightful travel experience to users.

Photo credit: FAW Group

The collaborative effort between these industry giants will give rise to novel products based on the Mobileye SuperVision and Mobileye Chauffeur platforms, promising users a safe and delightful travel experience.

Initiating the collaboration with the iconic Hongqi brand, both companies will integrate Mobileye SuperVision advanced driver-assistance features into key Hongqi models. Subsequently, they will introduce the "hands-off and eyes-off" intelligent driving capabilities of the Mobileye Chauffeur platform to the highly anticipated E701 model.

Production of vehicles equipped with the Mobileye SuperVision solution is scheduled to commence by late 2024, while those featuring Mobileye Chauffeur technology are set for production by the end of 2025.

Furthermore, China FAW's other brands are poised to follow suit by gradually adopting Mobileye platform solutions. Additionally, both parties will engage in comprehensive discussions to explore further avenues for deepening their collaboration.

In the course of its 70-year journey, FAW Group has persistently championed technological innovation and service enhancements, continually elevating the bar for user experiences, the Chinese auto giant said. Mobileye, renowned globally for its expertise in computer vision, artificial intelligence, mapping, and data analysis, has been at the forefront of the mobility revolution, pioneering advanced driver-assistance systems and autonomous driving solutions based on visual system analysis and data processing.

This partnership transcends conventional alliances, embracing a profound synergy as FAW Group accelerates its journey toward intelligent mobility. With the signing of this MoU, FAW will leverage its innovation capabilities while seamlessly integrating its partners' software and algorithmic strengths, aiming to offer users breakthrough experiences that redefine the notion of smart mobility. This collaboration is set to explore a myriad of intelligent transportation and autonomous driving solutions, propelling the industry into a new era of innovation.
With Gasgoo Daily, we will offer daily important automotive news in China. For those we have reported, the title of the piece will include a hyperlink, which will provide detailed information.

VOYAH releases official images of Zhuiguang PHEV



VOYAH, the premium new energy vehicle brand under Dongfeng Motor, has released the official images of the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) edition of its Zhuiguang sedan model, which is set to hit the market in the third quarter of this year.

Photo credit: VOYAH

Geely Technology Group changes name

According to the corporate data platform Tianyancha, recently, Geely Technology Group Co., Ltd. underwent a business registration change, with its company name changed to Zhejiang Jidi Technology Co., Ltd. Additionally, the company's business scope has been expanded to include the sales of artificial intelligence hardware, satellite mobile communication terminal sales, satellite navigation services, and Internet of Things application services.

SAIC-GM's Buick gets App accessed to State Grid's charging network

SAIC General Motors ("SAIC-GM")'s Buick brand announced today that its iBuick App has released the V10.11 update, integrating State Grid's charging network into its charging map, expanding additional access to over 18,000 charging stations and more than 80,000 charging piles.

SAIC Volkswagen, CAR Inc. ally on diversified mobility services

SAIC Volkswagen officially announced on September 14 that it has entered into a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement with CAR Inc. ("Shenzhou Zuche" in Chinese pinyin).

Geely Holding, Tianqi Lithium forge partnership in fields related to lithium battery

On September 13th, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group ("Geely Holding") and Tianqi Lithium jointly announced the signing of a strategic cooperation agreement. This partnership, built on leveraging each other's strengths, aims to explore fresh avenues of growth, fostering innovation and advancement within the realm of new energy vehicles.

China's first L4 autonomous driving smart highway to complete construction soon

China's inaugural holistic sensing smart highway, designed to support C-V2X systems and meet Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, has successfully achieved over 80% project completion and is on the verge of opening to traffic, according to Suzhou Fabu, the official WeChat account of Suzhous municipal authorities.

NationalChip partners with Kunlunxin for AI-powered intelligent driving solutions

Chinese IC firm NationalChip and Baidu-backed chip developer Kunlunxin have recently inked a strategic cooperation framework agreement, signaling a significant partnership aimed at advancing AI computing solutions for smart driving scenarios.

Autonomous driving tech firm Hyperview closes B+ funding round

On September 13, Chinese autonomous driving solution provider, Hyperview, announced the completion of its B+ financing round, which raised for the company over one hundred million yuan.
Reddit Email 76 Shares

Statement of the British Society for Middle East Studies and the European Legal Support Center on the IHRA Definition of antisemitism as a challenge to free speech in Universities.

IC is reprinting the opening paragraphs of Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom in UK Higher Education: The Adverse Impact of the IHRA Definition of Antisemitism

We are committed to the struggle against antisemitism and all forms of racism. Antisemitism exists within UK society and incidents of anti-Jewish prejudice occur in higher education institutions, just as in other institutional contexts. Antisemitism must be addressed, and institutions should seek to prevent it.

However, universities must do so in a way that does not discriminate directly or indirectly against others or undermine academic freedom and freedom of speech.

This report demonstrates that accusations of antisemitism levelled against students and staff in UK universities are often based on a definition of antisemitism that is not fit for purpose and, in practice, is undercutting academic freedom and the rights to lawful speech of students and staff, and causing harm to the reputations and careers of those accused.

This report was produced by the European Legal Support Center (ELSC) and the British Society for Middle Eastern Studies (BRISMES), Europes leading scholarly association concerned with the study of the Middle East and North Africa. The report is based on an analysis of 40 cases that were reported to the ELSC and in which UK university staff and/or students were accused of antisemitism on the basis of the IHRA working definition of antisemitism (IHRA definition), between 2017 and 2022. In all instances, except for two ongoing cases, the accusations of antisemitism were rejected. The final two have yet to be substantiated. On the basis of these findings, this report recommends against the adoption and use of the IHRA definition in a higher education setting. However it is beyond the remit of the report to suggest alternative definitions while the Human Rights Act of 1998 and the 2010 Equality Act provide the necessary legal tools to combat antisemitism and hate speech more generally.

In 2016, the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) adopted a working definition of antisemitism, to which was appended a list of illustrative examples. Several of the examples conflate criticisms of Israel, its illegal policies, practices and the political ideology on which the state was founded, with antisemitism. These examples contradict the IHRA definition itself and reflect positions advanced by advocates of Israeli policies towards Palestinians.

The definition and illustrative examples have been invoked in many contexts in the UK. This report shows that since its adoption by UK higher education institutions, the IHRA definition has been used in ways that delegitimise points of view critical of Israel and/or in support of Palestinian rights, in violation of academic freedom and freedom of speech. It is noteworthy that the UN Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, E. Tendayi Achiume, has warned against the use of the definition owing to its susceptibility to being politically instrumentalised and the harm done to human rights resulting from such instrumentalization.

There is widespread agreement among scholars and legal experts (including the lead drafter of the IHRA definition, Kenneth Stern)3 that the IHRA definition is not appropriate for university settings where critical thought and free debate are paramount. Nevertheless, in 2020, the then Secretary of State for Education threatened university leaders with punitive financial consequences if their institutions did not adopt the IHRA definition.4 As a result, 119 universities (almost 75% of UK universities) have adopted some version of the definition as a basis for campus policies.5

Contrary to what many institutions seem to believe, it is simply not possible to use the IHRA definition to determine whether or not an individual incident or statement is antisemitic, whilst simultaneously protecting freedom of speech and academic freedom and preventing discrimination. To attempt to do so inevitably leads to damaging and iniquitous consequences for staff and students. 5 This report highlights four major consequences of the IHRA definitions adoption:

Key findings

1. Advocates of Palestinian human rights, critics of the Israeli state and its policies and those researching and teaching about the history of and current situation in Israel-Palestine have been targeted with false accusations of antisemitism.

2. University staff and students are being subjected to unreasonable investigations and disciplinary proceedings based on the IHRA definition. These proceedings have harmed the wellbeing of the staff and students subjected to false allegations of antisemitism. Those falsely accused have felt their reputations to have been sullied, and they are anxious about possible damage caused to their education and careers.

3. The complaints have had an adverse effect on academic freedom and freedom of speech on campuses, leading, in some cases, to the cancellation of events or the imposition of spurious conditions on the format of events.

4. From testimonies received, it is clear that these cases are creating a chilling effect among staff and students, deterring individuals from speaking about or organising events that discuss Palestinian human rights and Palestinian self-determination out of fear that they will be subject to complaints, or else will face considerable bureaucratic hurdles and even costly legal action in order to allow events to take place. Academics employed on temporary contracts (who constitute a significant proportion of university teaching staff), as well as students, are particularly susceptible to self-censorship out of fear that any sort of accusations, even if not upheld, could jeopardise their future ability to obtain permanent employment.

Hence, overall, we conclude that the adoption and deployment of the IHRA definition in UK universities has already dealt a blow to academic freedom and freedom of speech. This not only threatens the ability of higher education institutions to meet their legal obligations in this regard, but is also preventing students from engaging in nuanced discussions about the Middle East, global politics, and the question of Palestine, which are also necessary as part of efforts to combat antisemitism.

Introduction

The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) is an intergovernmental body whose stated purpose is to strengthen, advance and promote Holocaust education, research and remembrance. The IHRA definition is intended by its authors to be a practical educational tool that help raise awareness of key issues. It defines antisemitism as:

a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.

Advocates of the definition argue that its adoption is necessary to combat antisemitism in UK universities and assert that the definition ensures the safety and security of Jewish students and staff.7 Further, they argue that as it is framed as non- legally binding it will not impinge on freedom of speech, academic freedom or anti-discrimination law. Yet, there are repeated concerns raised by academics, activists and legal experts that the IHRA definition is suppressing lawful speech on Palestinian human rights and criticisms of the Israeli state. There are seven references to Israel in the illustrative examples accompanying the definition. Several of these examples effectively conflate criticism of Israel and Zionism with racism and discrimination directed at Jews, for example, Denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination, e.g., by claiming that the existence of a State of Israel is a racist endeavor. This example not only erroneously essentialises Jewish self-determination as indistinguishable from the State of Israel (a historically-contingent position particular to Zionist ideology) but also delegitimises Palestinian claims to self-determination and opposition to Israels discriminatory policies against Palestinians as antisemitism. Most worryingly, it suppresses documented evidence of Israeli crimes against Palestinians.

The promotion of the IHRA definition in UK universities and its use in complaints against staff and students is part of a wider context and history of false accusations of antisemitism being levelled against those concerned with Israels human rights violations. In 2022, after publishing its report entitled Israels Apartheid Against Palestinians: Cruel System of Domination and Crime Against Humanity, Amnesty International was accused of deploying antisemitic tropes.8 In 2019, Tower Hamlets council refused permission for the Big Ride for Palestine, a charity event in aid of Palestinian 7 children, because of fears that it could breach the IHRA definition.9 As such, this reconceptualisation of antisemitism serves to erase Palestinian existence and narratives and shield the rights-abusive policies of the State of Israel  and the structural basis for these actions  from criticism. It further prevents Palestinians from speaking about their oppression and silencing support for Palestinian rights.

According to a recent report produced by the Taskforce on Antisemitism in Higher Education (established by the UK Governments Independent Adviser on Antisemitism, Lord Mann), that questioned 56 universities across the UK about their experience of using the IHRA definition:

None knew of or could provide a single example in which the IHRA definition had in any ways restricted freedom of speech or academic research, or where its adoption had chilled academic freedom, research or freedom of expression. All these 56 institutions were using the definition and were seen to be listening to the Jewish community about how it experiences antisemitism.

Yet, the 40 incidents examined in this study contradict the above claims and raise serious questions about the findings of the Taskforce on Antisemitism in Higher Education. This report confirms the views of recognised experts on antisemitism, Jewish history and related subjects that the IHRA definition is unsuitable for universities.12 Scholars have expressed concern that research and teaching on Israel and Palestine has become increasingly difficult because of the IHRA definitions widespread adoption.13 The case studies analysed in this report demonstrate that the imposition of the IHRA definition, in its varied forms in UK higher education institutions (regardless of the caveats included in some universities policies), stifles free speech within the law in relation to teaching, research and discussion of Israeli government policies, the nature of the formation of the Israeli state, and the nature of Zionism as an ideology and movement. It has served to unfairly damage the reputation and careers of staff and students who speak about the violations of Palestinian human rights and crimes committed by Israel. Most egregiously, it erases the experiences of the Palestinian people, hides from public view documented evidence of the crimes committed against them and thereby prevents universities, staff and students from contributing to informed public debate on the matter.

Read the whole report .
Reddit Email 24 Shares

By Maha Nassar, University of Arizona | 

On Sept. 13, 1993, the world watched as Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Palestine Liberation Organization Chairman Yasser Arafat shook hands on the White House lawn. It was a stunning moment. The famous handshake between adversaries marked the beginning of what became known as the Oslo Accords, a framework for talks between Israeli and Palestinian representatives, mediated by U.S. diplomats.

The idea was that through open-ended negotiations and confidence-building measures, Palestinians would eventually take control over their own affairs in the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem  territories that Israel had illegally occupied following the 1967 Six-Day War.

After an interim period of five years, the thinking went, a Palestinian state would exist side by side with Israel. And through such a two-state solution, peace between Israel and the Palestinians could be achieved.



This file is a work of an employee of the Executive Office of the President of the United States, taken or made as part of that persons official duties. As a work of the U.S. federal government, it is in the public domain.

Thirty years later, it is clear the Oslo Accords have achieved neither peace nor a two-state solution. So far in 2023 alone, over 200 Palestinians and nearly 30 Israelis have been killed. Israel has the most right-wing, nationalist government in its history, and the Palestinian leadership is weak and divided. There is little prospect for a return to negotiations anytime soon.

How did this grim reality emerge from such high hopes in 1993? Many analysts point to violations of the terms of the accords committed by both sides. Others blame a lack of accountability, which allowed those violations to go unchecked.

Certainly, there is plenty of blame to go around. But as a scholar of Palestinian history, it is clear to me that the Oslo peace process failed because the framework itself was deeply flawed in three key ways.

First, it ignored the power imbalance between the two sides. Second, it focused on ending violence by Palestinian militant groups while overlooking acts of violence committed by the Israeli state. And third, it sought peace as the end goal, rather than justice.

Lets break each one of these down.

Ignoring the power imbalance

The Palestinian Liberation Organization, or PLO, had implicitly recognized Israel in 1988. But a more formal statement was needed for Israel to agree to talks. In an exchange of letters on Sept. 9, 1993, Arafat wrote to Rabin, The PLO recognizes the right of the State of Israel to exist in peace and security.

In formally recognizing Israels right to exist, the PLO essentially gave up sole sovereign claims to 78% of the Palestinians historic homeland that was now claimed by Israel.

In response, Rabin wrote to Arafat that Israel would recognize the PLO as the representative of the Palestinian people. He did not recognize the Palestinians right to form their own state.

In a Declaration of Principles, signed by Arafat and Rabin at the White House on Sept. 13, it was stated that the aim of the talks was the implementation of Security Council resolutions 242 (from 1967) and 338 (from 1973). Those U.N. resolutions call on Israel to withdraw from territories it occupied in 1967. But they do not explicitly call for the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Since then, Israel has expropriated nearly half of the West Bank for the exclusive use of Jewish settlers, in violation of international law. It also routinely siphons off water from Palestinian underground aquifers for the use of the settlers, while depriving Palestinians access to their own water.

As a result of these and other measures, life for Palestinians became worse during the post-Oslo years, not better. As Palestinians lost further control over their lands, homes and resources, their ability to establish a state grew more distant.

Yet, by insisting that bilateral negotiations take place between a powerful state and a stateless people  rather than under the auspices of the United Nations or other international body  the Oslo framework ignored the power imbalance between Israel and the Palestinians. U.S. mediators would insist that both sides needed to compromise. But Israel held far more military, economic and diplomatic power than the Palestinians.

By ignoring this power imbalance, the Oslo Accords effectively allowed Israel to continue to confiscate land and resources with no consequences. With 60% of the West Bank under Israeli control, the prospects for a viable, independent Palestinian state were undermined.

No end to state violence

A 1994 follow-up agreement stated, Both sides shall take all measures necessary in order to prevent acts of terrorism, crime and hostilities directed against each other. It added that the Palestinian side shall take all measures necessary to prevent such hostile acts directed against the Settlements, the infrastructure serving them and the Military Installation Area.

Successive Israeli governments have interpreted hostile acts broadly. As a result, even Palestinians who have defended their lands through nonviolent means have been arrested, imprisoned and shot at by Israeli soldiers.

The agreement also stated that the Israeli side shall take all measures necessary to prevent such hostile acts emanating from the Settlements and directed against Palestinians. But it does not mention Israeli military violence against Palestinian civilians.

To enforce this agreement, the Palestinian Authority  an autonomous body that rules over Palestinians in the West Bank  agreed to coordinate with the Israeli military over security matters. It would either arrest Palestinians whom Israel suspects of carrying out hostilities or allow Israel to enter Palestinian areas and arrest suspects themselves.

This coordination protects Israelis from Palestinian violence, but it does not protect Palestinians from violence by the Israeli military. Since fall 2000, the Israel military has killed eight times as many Palestinians as compared with Israelis killed by Palestinians. Half of those Palestinian victims were not involved in hostilities when they were killed, according to analysis from the Israeli human rights group BTselem.

Palestinians are also subjected to other kinds of human rights abuses from the Israeli state. These include home demolitions, imprisonment without charge or trial and abuse at checkpoints. Most soldiers accused of harming Palestinians do not face consequences for their actions, according to Yesh Din, an Israeli human rights organization.

Peace over justice

This kind of structural violence and abuse  perpetrated by the state against marginalized groups  rarely makes headlines in Western media. Such a lack of awareness reinforces Israels ability to control Palestinians lives and further undermines the prospects for peace.

Yet this exclusive focus on achieving peace has, I believe, also been part of the problem. American and Israeli diplomats narrowly defined peace as the absence of armed violence and set that as the overarching goal. They believed that if Palestinians refrained from committing acts of violence, then peace through a two-state solution could be achieved. Coverage that mirrored this perspective in the mainstream U.S. media further entrenched this view.

But this understanding of peace has ignored the Palestinians need for justice. At a minimum, justice to many Palestinians would have meant an end to security cooperation between the Palestinian Authority and Israel and the establishment of an independent, democratic Palestinian state on the remaining 22% of their homeland.

But with the power imbalances enshrined in the Oslo framework, and with U.S. mediators focusing more on peace  measured by incidents of Palestinian violence over those perpetrated by the Israeli state  this was not to be.

Oslo as surrender

One month after the famous handshake, the Palestinian scholar Edward Said described the Oslo Accords as an instrument of Palestinian surrender. Recently, a group of leading political scientists called on U.S. policymakers to abandon the Oslo framework and the two-state solution altogether. They call on the U.S. to advocate for equality, citizenship, and human rights for all Jews and Palestinians living within the single state dominated by Israel.

It is, I believe, an urgent call. Life for Palestinians is getting worse, not better. A growing number of international human rights organizations and public figures describe the current reality on the ground in Israel-Palestine as a form of apartheid.

Thirty years after their famous handshake, Arafat and Rabin have long since passed. Its time to admit that the process they kick-started is also now confined to history.

Maha Nassar, Associate Professor in the School of Middle Eastern and North African Studies, University of Arizona

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Reddit Email 24 Shares

London (Special to Informed Comment; Feature)  Efforts by Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to join the race for artificial intelligence could be hindered by US opposition to Chinas growing footprint in the region. US President Joe Biden and his administration appear concerned that rising Chinese influence in the Middle East might cause sensitive US technology exported there to leak to China, a sign of Beijings growing commercial and diplomatic clout in the region. Chinas nationalist and autocratic leader Xi Jinping has certainly moved to tighten geopolitical ties between his nation and a number of important Middle Eastern countries in recent times.

Chinas top diplomat and current foreign minister Wang Yi arranged an unexpected Saudi-Iran peace agreement in March this year between Riyadhs mercurial Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud and Irans aging Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Meanwhile Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE were all invited (and agreed) to join the emerging markets BRICS grouping of non-Western countries, with their membership to come into effect on January 1, 2024. China is overhauling President Xis ambitious Belt & Road Initiative (BRI) global infrastructure development programme and Beijing is seeking project funding from rich Muslim countries. Beijing therefore pushed the Iran-Saudi peace deal and supported Saudi Arabias application to join the BRICS to help it gain access to Saudi backing for the BRI. Another reason for growing Gulf-China ties is Beijings intensifying technological competition with Washington.

Growing US-China technology competition

The US is stepping up its efforts to contain Chinas geopolitical and technological development in East Asia and outside it. In October 2022, Washington launched controls intended to prevent China from acquiring certain categories of semiconductor chips made with US equipment anywhere in the world, partially to prevent Beijing from using them to develop advanced new artificial intelligence systems. The US has since escalated these export restrictions on semiconductor chips to unspecified Middle Eastern countries, according to US multinational technology firm Nvidia late last month.

Meanwhile, a source at Nvidias commercial rival Advanced Micro Devices told media it had also received an official letter from the US government containing similar restrictions. The chips concerned were high-powered models used to improve machine-learning tasks for artificial intelligence programmes like ChatGPT. Gulf Arab states have been increasingly seeking to import advanced versions of these to create their own artificial intelligence models, but their growing technoscientific ties to China are a source of rising US unease.

Article continues after bonus IC video

CNBC: U.S. curbs AI chip exports to some Middle Eastern countries

China-US tensions were recently raised further following US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondos recent combative trip to China, during which the Commerce Secretary explicitly said the US would remain hardline in its approach to limiting Chinese access to advanced technologies. Beijing didnt pull any punches either, with US-blacklisted telecommunications company Huawei releasing its new Mate 60 Pro smartphone during Raimondos visit. Huaweis smartphone business was crushed by US technology export restrictions in 2019 and the new handset showcases the firms partial evasion of these as well as its intension to reestablish itself in the sector.

On Chinas tightly controlled internet Chinese citizens posted memes turning Raimondo into a brand ambassador for Huawei; a play on her departments role in enforcing technology restrictions on Chinese firms like Huawei or Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC), the partially state-owned Chinese company which allegedly built the semiconductor chip powering Huaweis homemade phone. In response, US lawmakers have called for investigations to see whether SMIC broke US sanctions and supplied components to Huawei, while South Korean firm SK Hynix started a probe after discovering parts it manufactured were present inside Huaweis new handsets.

US Fears About China-Middle Eastern Technological Cooperation

President Biden has made containing Chinas technological rise  and any subsequent global spread of Chinese technologies, standards and norms about cyberspace  a central part of his administrations foreign policy. At the same time Saudi Arabia and the UAE have emerged as some of the biggest customers of US chip firms like Intel and Nvidia, the latter of whose high-powered products are much sought-after for their use in artificial intelligence research. The UAE has bought thousands of US semiconductor chips for a homegrown Arabic artificial intelligence model called Falcon, made by Abu Dhabis Technological Innovation Institute.

Meanwhile Saudi Arabia is spending $120 million to buy these to build its own ChatGPT-style large language model at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, despite using Chinese researchers. Gulf state leaders want to own and control artificial intelligence developments within their own countries, while using Chinese and US know-how to create their own local systems. There is also an element of Arab countries balancing the two sides to avoid dependency upon either one of them; Riyadh has allowed Huaweis cloud arm to create a data centre in Saudi Arabia to support government services and artificial intelligence language models in Arabic despite using US-made chips to train them.

Gulf governments laxer approach to China likely lies behind Augusts US imposition of restrictions on top artificial intelligence chips being exported unnamed Middle Eastern countries; such deliveries are unlikely to be going to already-hostile states like Iran. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Sauds decision to rely on Chinese researchers to help Riyadh build its artificial intelligence models is especially likely to have angered President Biden, who personally dislikes the de facto Saudi leader, a sentiment the volatile crown prince reportedly returns.

Beijing will be intensely interested in the chance to send researchers to Saudi Arabia study US chip technologies so it can parallel engineer its own devices when they return home. Saudi Arabia and potentially other Gulf states therefore represent a weak spot in the global technological blockade President Biden is attempting to erect around Chinas semiconductor and artificial intelligence sectors. Despite their diplomatic importance to the US, the Gulf states could therefore find their early enthusiasm for artificial intelligence hitting similar curbs to Chinas if they continue to weaken US efforts to contain Chinas technological rise.
Radio Free Europe Radio Liberty RFE/RL journalists report the news in 23 countries where a free press is banned by the government or not fully established. We provide what many people cannot get locally: uncensored news, responsible discussion, and open debate. RFE/RL strives to meet the highest standards of objective journalism and report the facts, undaunted by pressure or attempted influence. RFE/RL is registered with the IRS as a private, nonprofit Sec. 501(c)3 corporation, and is funded by a grant from the U.S. Congress through the United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) as a private grantee. RFE/RL's editorial independence is protected by U.S. law.
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 13, 2023 / Jaguar Mining Inc. ("Jaguar" or the "Company") (TSX:JAG)(OTCQX:JAGGF) is pleased to announce the successful closing of its previously announced acquisition (the "Transaction") of the Pitangui Project and the remaining interest in the Acurui Project from a subsidiary of IAMGOLD Corporation (NYSE: IAG) (TSX: IMG) ("IAMGOLD"), AGEM Ltd. (the "Vendor").

As consideration for acquiring a 100% interest in the Pitangui Project and the Vendor's interest in the Acurui Project, the Company issued 6,331,713 common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Consideration Shares"), having an aggregate value of USD$9 million based on the volume weighted average closing price per share for the thirty (30) calendar days preceding the date of the definitive agreement for the Transaction, which was CAD$1.873 per share. The Vendor has agreed to hold and to not transfer or trade the Consideration Shares for a period of twelve (12) months following the closing date of the Transaction, subject to certain conditions. In addition, the Vendor has agreed to notify and inform Jaguar if the Vendor intends to sell all or any of the Consideration Shares.

In connection with the Transaction, the Company also granted to the Vendor a net smelter returns royalty. For additional information regarding this royalty, please see the Company's press release dated August 2, 2023, which is available for review under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.com).

Vern Baker, President and CEO of Jaguar, stated: "We are very pleased to have completed this transaction to purchase IAMGOLD's Brazilian assets. The transaction increases our resource base and furthers our corporate strategy to leverage our extensive existing infrastructure to drive production growth through increased plant throughput. Going forward, our plan is to focus on permitting the Pitangui Project and move it into development as quickly as is possible. The Acurui Project complements our Paciencia property and will be considered a part of the exploration and development package we have available to restart production at Paciencia in the future."

The Iron Quadrangle

The Iron Quadrangle has been an area of mineral exploration dating back to the 16th century. The discovery in 1699-1701 of gold contaminated with iron and platinum-group metals in the southeastern corner of the Iron Quadrangle gave rise to the name of the town Ouro Preto (Black Gold). The Iron Quadrangle contains world-class multi-million-ounce gold deposits such as Morro Velho, Cuiaba and Sao Bento. Jaguar holds the third largest gold land position in the Iron Quadrangle with over 50,000 hectares.

About Jaguar Mining Inc.

Jaguar Mining Inc. is a Canadian-listed junior gold mining, development and exploration company operating in Brazil with three gold mining complexes and a large land package with significant upside exploration potential from mineral claims. The Company's principal operating assets are located in the Iron Quadrangle, a prolific greenstone belt in the state of Minas Gerais and include the Turmalina Gold Mine Complex and Caete Mining Complex (Pilar and Roca Grande Mines, and Caete Plant). The Company also owns the Paciencia Gold Mine Complex, which has been on care and maintenance since 2012. The Roca Grande Mine has been on temporary care and maintenance since April 2019. Additional information is available on the Company's website at www.jaguarmining.com.

For further information please contact:

Vernon Baker

Chief Executive Officer

Jaguar Mining Inc.

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

416-847-1854

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's expectations and plans relating to the future. All of the forward-looking information made in this news release is qualified by the cautionary statements below and those made in our other filings with the securities regulators in Canada. Forward-looking information contained in forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "are expected," "is forecast," "is targeted," "approximately," "plans," "anticipates," "projects," "anticipates," "continue," "estimate," "believe" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may," "could," "would," "might," or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, may be considered to be or include forward-looking information. This news release contains forward-looking information regarding, among other things, the Company's plans and expectations for the Pitangui Project and the Acurui Project, the ability of Jaguar to successfully integrate the acquired assets from the Transaction and realize anticipated benefits therefrom, and the expected impact of the Transaction on the Company and its business and corporate strategy. The Company has made numerous assumptions with respect to forward-looking information contained herein, including, among other things, the Company's ability to obtain the final acceptance of the TSX for the Transaction and the issuance of the Consideration Shares in connection therewith.

Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including receipt of necessary approvals, risks inherent in the mining industry and the other risks described in the public disclosure of the Company which is available under the profile of the Company on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, including without limitation, the Company's most recent Annual Information Form and Management's Discussion and Analysis. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

The forward-looking information set forth herein reflects the Company's reasonable expectations as at the date of this news release and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

THE TSX HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.
WHITEHORSE, Yukon, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Victoria Gold Corp. (TSX-VGCX) (Victoria or the Company) is pleased to announce the first analytical results from the 2023 exploration campaign at the Raven deposit. Raven was the primary focus of this seasons exploration efforts with over 13,200 meters (m) of diamond drilling completed. The drilling campaign consisted of systematic fence drilling to the east of the current deposit bounds coupled with exploratory drillholes around the promising high-grade mineralization identified last season in drillhole NG22-155C (20.24 g/t Au over 14.5m; see Company News Release dated January 19, 2023). Victoria anticipates releasing an updated Raven Mineral Resource Estimate after the completion of the 2023 field season including receipt and analysis of all results.

Assays for 16 of the 39 drillholes collared in 2023 have been received  highlighted results are presented below:

7.80 g/t Au over 6.0m from 235.5m in NG23-167C

from 235.5m in NG23-167C 3.03 g/t Au over 11.3m from 256.3m in NG23-168C

from 256.3m in NG23-168C 20.20 g/t Au over 1.1m from 292.3m in NG23-170C

from 292.3m in NG23-170C 3.45 g/t Au over 27.5m from 239.0m in NG23-172C

from 239.0m in NG23-172C 3.47 g/t Au over 18.5m from 170.5m in NG23-179C

A busy 2023 exploration program served to validate and expand the mineralized footprint of Raven while increasing overall confidence in the Raven deposit, stated John McConnell, President and CEO of Victoria. With each successive season, Raven has grown in size and 2023 should prove no different as we focused exploration towards growth of the deposit along strike - particularly to the east where 2023 results underscore the development of a high-grade trend.

During the 2023 field season, 13,220m of diamond drilling was completed at the Raven deposit (39 holes), along with 1,282m of surface trenches (16 trenches), detailed structural/geological mapping and prospecting. Drilling in 2022 and 2023 tested an additional 400m of strike length from the 2022 Resource eastern limits. This drilling confirmed Raven mineralization over a strike length of 1.7 kilometers (km). This first set of analytical results from Victorias 2023 exploration program represents further confirmation of the Raven mineralization and Resource model, with long intervals of gold mineralization (such as 144.0m of 0.81 g/t Au and 78.4m of 1.40 g/t Au) hosted within granodiorite lithologies punctuated by intervals of high grade massive sulphide veins (such as 3.5m of 13.68 g/t Au and 0.5m of 135.30 g/t Au).

The results of NG23-172C and NG23-179C, together with NG22-155C, drilled during the 2022 drill campaign, demonstrate an emerging high-grade trend within the rapidly developing Raven deposit.

In conjunction with focused drilling of the Raven deposit, a suite of exploration targets across the Dublin Gulch Gold Camp, including Lynx, were advanced through surface trenches, soil geochemical surveys, geological mapping and prospecting during the 2023 program.

Highlighted analytical results from the 16 Raven drillholes received to date are presented below:

Table 1: Raven 2023 Diamond Drillhole Highlighted Results

Hole From_m To_m Length m Au g/t Ag g/t NG23-166C 109.5 110.8 1.3 7.28 6.70 NG23-167C 50.3 51.4 1.1 12.30 24.00 and 203.5 241.5 38.0 1.77 3.81 including 203.5 207.0 3.5 5.31 14.64 and including 235.5 241.5 6.0 7.80 12.85 including 235.5 237.0 1.5 26.00 19.80 NG23-168C 209.5 267.6 58.1 0.82 3.91 including 256.3 267.6 11.3 3.03 17.67 including 256.3 257.0 0.7 43.00 95.20 NG23-169C 68.5 205.0 136.5 0.38 1.31 including 112.2 112.7 0.5 35.10 71.40 and including 165.0 205.0 40.0 0.50 2.59 including 165.0 192.9 27.9 0.67 3.00 NG23-170C 37.0 38.0 1.0 0.44 354.00 and 222.5 293.4 70.9 0.82 14.03 including 239.6 293.4 53.8 1.01 16.87 including 239.6 240.7 1.1 12.00 673.00 and including 292.3 293.4 1.1 20.20 15.90 NG23-171C 203.7 314.5 110.8 0.33 4.03 including 265.5 295.0 29.5 0.69 9.71 including 286.8 295.0 8.2 1.53 9.12 NG23-172C 224.8 303.2 78.4 1.40 3.01 including 239.0 266.5 27.5 3.45 1.35 including 240.7 241.2 0.5 135.30 8.40 and including 263.0 263.7 0.6 21.80 23.00 NG23-173C 230.5 284.5 54.0 0.53 2.84 including 254.5 284.5 30.0 0.84 4.63 including 278.0 284.5 6.5 2.96 18.73 NG23-174C 211.5 225.5 14.0 0.66 - including 217.6 224.5 6.9 1.13 - NG23-175C 164.4 196.7 32.3 0.77 5.86 including 167.5 175.3 7.8 2.51 18.16 NG23-176C 210.0 217.9 7.9 2.19 14.72 including 212.9 213.9 1.0 12.30 84.30 NG23-177C 222.7 287.6 64.9 0.44 3.61 including 259.5 287.6 28.1 0.61 4.20 including 259.5 268.3 8.8 1.13 7.86 NG23-178C 228.0 230.2 2.2 6.19 6.00 including 229.5 230.2 0.7 19.00 17.80 and 313.1 340.0 26.9 0.98 7.62 including 323.5 334.3 10.8 1.87 12.54 NG23-179C 159.0 303.0 144.0 0.81 10.58 including 167.0 221.0 54.0 1.50 24.57 including 167.0 189.0 22.0 3.01 58.06 including 170.5 189.0 18.5 3.47 66.63 including 181.7 185.2 3.5 13.68 216.08 NG23-180C 161.7 162.5 0.8 2.34 221.00 NG23-181C 222.7 329.5 106.8 0.41 0.92 including 259.5 284.5 25.0 0.58 1.06 including 275.9 283.0 7.1 0.87 2.19

*True widths are estimated to be approximately 90% of drilled lengths

A set of drill sections and plan map to accompany these Raven drillholes, along with drill collar and survey data, will be made available on the company website (www.vgcx.com).

Analytical method

All exploration drill core from the Dublin Gulch 2023 program was analyzed at MSALabs, of Terrace, B.C., utilizing the ICP_230 34-element analytical package with FAS-121 50-gram fire assay with an atomic absorption finish for gold on all samples. All core samples were split at Victoria's exploration facilities and shipped to the MSALabs mobile preparation facility near Mayo, YT. Samples were sorted and crushed to appropriate particle size (coarse crush) and representatively split to a smaller size (250 grams) for the MSALabs analytical facility in Langley, B.C. A comprehensive system of standards, blanks and field duplicates was implemented for the 2023 exploration campaign and is monitored as chemical assay data becomes available.

Qualified Person

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Paul D. Gray, P.Geo., as the Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About Raven

Raven represents a potentially high-grade, on-surface gold deposit that lies in the extreme southeast contact of the Nugget Intrusive Stock within the surrounding Earn Group metasedimentary package. This large, approximately 3 kilometer by 2 kilometer, medium to coarse grained granodiorite stock of Cretaceous age represents the second largest intrusive body on the Dublin Gulch property (second only to the Dublin Gulch Stock that hosts the Eagle Gold Mine). The Nugget Stock is highly prospective to host Eagle-style sheeted vein mineralization, and the vast majority of the greater than 5 square kilometer stock remains untested.

The Raven occurrence is hosted in a shear zone corridor on the southeast portion of the Nugget Stock, in close association with the intrusion-metasediment contact on the eastern side of the Lynx Creek valley. The area is underlain by the Devonian to Mississippian age Earn Group and the Early Carboniferous age Keno Hill Quartzite which have been deformed by greenschist facies metamorphism, folding, and thrusting (Gordey and Makepeace, 2003).

Exploration drilling, trenching, and soil geochemical sampling at the Raven deposit in the 2018 through 2023 field seasons have repeatedly returned high-grade gold intersections accompanied by prolific visible gold occurrences along a major and consistently mineralized corridor, which has grown sequentially since its discovery in 2018. The Raven discovery was based largely from initial surface trenches constructed and sampled in the 2018 field season that exposed scorodite, bismuth, and siderite related sulphide veins under less than one meter of overburden/cover.

The October 26, 2022 technical report, titled Technical Report on the Raven Mineral Deposit, Mayo Mining District Yukon Territory, Canada, with an effective date of September 15, 2022, can be found on the Companys website at www.vgcx.com and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

The MRE comprises a total Inferred Mineral Resource of 1,070,239 ounces of gold for the near-surface Raven Deposit.

Table 2: Pit-Constrained Inferred Mineral Resources at a 0.50 g/t Au Cut-Off

Effective September 15, 2022  Raven Deposit

Au Cut-off

Grade

g/t Classification



Tonnage

tonnes Average Au Grade

g/t Au Content

oz 0.50 Inferred 19,956,934 1.67 1,070,239

Notes: 

The effective date for the Mineral Resource is September 15, 2022. Mineral Resources which are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, sociopolitical, marketing, or other relevant issues. The CIM definitions were followed for classification of Mineral Resources. The quantity and grade of reported inferred Mineral Resources in this estimation are uncertain in nature and there has been insufficient exploration to define these inferred Mineral Resources as an indicated Mineral Resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in upgrading them to an indicated or measured Mineral Resource category. Mineral Resources are reported at a cut-off grade of 0.50 g/t Au, within a Lerchs-Grossman pit shell using a gold price of US$1,700/ounce and a US$/CAN$ exchange rate of 0.75.

About the Dublin Gulch Property

Victoria Gold's 100%-owned Dublin Gulch gold property (the Property) is situated in central Yukon Territory, Canada, approximately 375 kilometers north of the capital city of Whitehorse, and approximately 85 kilometers from the town of Mayo. The Property is accessible by road year round, and is located within Yukon Energy's electrical grid.

The Property covers an area of approximately 555 square kilometers, and is the site of the Company's Eagle and Olive Gold deposits. The Company issued a National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report for the Eagle Gold Mine dated April 10, 2023 (the 2023 Eagle Technical Report). As at December 31, 2022, the Eagle and Olive deposits include Proven and Probable Reserves of 2.6 million ounces of gold from 124 million tonnes of ore with a grade of 0.65 grams of gold per tonne. As at December 31, 2022, the Mineral Resource for the Eagle and Olive deposits has been estimated to host 245 million tonnes averaging 0.59 grams of gold per tonne, containing 4.7 million ounces of gold in the "Measured and Indicated" category, inclusive of Proven and Probable Reserves, and a further 35 million tonnes averaging 0.62 grams of gold per tonne, containing 0.7 million ounces of gold in the "Inferred" category.

Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". Except for statements of historical fact relating to Victoria, information contained herein constitutes forward-looking information, including any information related to Victoria's strategy, plans or future financial or operating performance. Forward-looking information is characterized by words such as plan, expect, budget, target, project, intend, believe, anticipate, estimate and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions may, will, could or should occur, and includes any guidance and forecasts set out herein (including, but not limited to, production and operational guidance of the Corporation). In order to give such forward-looking information, the Corporation has made certain assumptions about its business, operations, the economy and the mineral exploration industry in general. In this respect, the Corporation has assumed that production levels will remain consistent with managements expectations, contracted parties provide goods and services on agreed timeframes, equipment works as anticipated, required regulatory approvals are received, no unusual geological or technical problems occur, no material adverse change in the price of gold occurs and no significant events occur outside of the Corporation's normal course of business. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made, and are inherently subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other known and unknown factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those described in, or implied by, the forward-looking information. These factors include the impact of general business and economic conditions, global liquidity and credit availability on the timing of cash flows and the values of assets and liabilities based on projected future conditions, anticipated metal production, fluctuating metal prices, currency exchange rates, estimated ore grades, possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates, changes in accounting policies, changes in Victoria's corporate resources, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, changes in development and production time frames, the possibility of cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses, uncertainty of mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates, higher prices for fuel, steel, power, labour and other consumables contributing to higher costs and general risks of the mining industry, failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated, final pricing for metal sales, unanticipated results of future studies, seasonality and unanticipated weather changes, costs and timing of the development of new deposits, success of exploration activities, requirements for additional capital, permitting time lines, government regulation of mining operations, environmental risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses, title disputes or claims, limitations on insurance coverage and timing and possible outcomes of pending litigation and labour disputes, risks related to remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure, fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations. Although Victoria has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in, or implied by, the forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained herein is presented for the purpose of assisting investors in understanding Victoria's expected financial and operational performance and Victoria's plans and objectives and may not be appropriate for other purposes. All forward-looking information contained herein is given as of the date hereof, as the case may be, and is based upon the opinions and estimates of management and information available to management of the Corporation as at the date hereof. The Corporation undertakes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking information contained herein and the documents incorporated by reference herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.

For Further Information Contact:

John McConnell

President & CEO

Victoria Gold Corp

Tel: 604-696-6605

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Fjordland Exploration Inc. (TSXV: FEX) (the "Company") announces that Fjordland has elected all four nominated directors, including newly appointed director, Robert Cameron, at the Company's recent Annual General Meeting. The meeting also completed the retirement of long-term directors, Vic Tanaka and Peter Krag-Hansen.

Mr. Cameron is a geologist who has had a long and successful career that has included involvement in a number of discoveries including the QR Gold deposit, Kinross's first greenfields mine; the Kaspersky Hory Gold deposit in Czechia; and the discovery of the Cordero Silver deposit in Mexico. He was Canadian Exploration Manager for Phelps Dodge and Freeport McMoRan and Managing Director of Cyprus Canada. He is a member of the Association of Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia and is currently the President and CEO of Commander Resources and President and Director of Teako Minerals.

James Tuer, Fjordland's President commented, "I'm pleased to welcome Rob to the company's board of directors. Rob has been invaluable to Fjordland as its Qualified Person overseeing our technical disclosure. He's an expert in copper, gold and nickel terrains and has been instrumental in advancing our recent lithium exploration project on the North Shore of Quebec. The conclusion of this year's AGM marks the retirement of Vic Tanaka and Peter Krag-Hanson from the Company. Vic was a founding director and president of Fjordland 27 years ago when it started off looking for diamonds in Greenland. Peter Krag joined as a director 7 years later in 2003. I wish to thank them for their input, tenacity and stewardship over these many years."

About Fjordland Exploration Inc.

Fjordland Exploration Inc. is a mineral exploration company that is focused on the discovery of large-scale economic battery metal deposits in Canada.

In collaboration with Commander Resources Ltd., Fjordland is exploring the SVB "Pants Lake Intrusive" target which is in a geologic setting analogous to the nearby nickel-cobalt-copper Voisey's Bay deposit. Fjordland has earned a 75% interest in the project.

Fjordland, owns a 100% interest in the Renzy nickel-project located near Maniwaki, Quebec. The project encompasses the former Renzy Mine where, during the period from 1969 to 1972, 716,000 short tons were mined with average grades of 0.70% nickel and 0.72% copper. Recent work also highlighted the graphite potential for the project. The project size measures 530 sq. km.

Fjordland has two copper-gold properties in the Quesnel Trough of central British Columbia, The West Milligan copper-gold project is a joint venture with Northwest Copper Corp. located within 4 km of Centerra's Mount Milligan copper-gold mine. The 103 sq. km. Witch copper-gold project is located another 35 km west of the Milligan mine.

Fjordland owns the Manat-nipi Lithium Project (formerly referred to as the Kegashka Lithium Project) on the North Shore of Quebec near Natashquan.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

"James Tuer"

James Tuer, CEO

For further information:

James Tuer

Ph: 604-688-3415

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.fjordlandex.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain forward-looking statements or information. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this news release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the use of proceeds from the private placement, and other future plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's plans or expectations include market prices, general economic, market or business conditions, regulatory changes, timeliness of government or regulatory approvals and other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
SAN DIEGOAnother individual associated with the GirlsDoPorn sex trafficking scheme and owner Michael Pratt was arrested September 1 in Michigan and now faces federal charges.

404 Media's Samantha Cole reports that the charges are sealed by a federal court but will be announced by prosecutors imminently. The individual facing charges is Douglas "James" Wiederhold, owner of MomPOV.com and GirlsDoPorn's first male talent when the disgraced, now-shuttered paysite was initially launched by Pratt.

Wiederhold was initially booked into Newaygo County Jail, and then released on $25,000 bail. He is scheduled to appear today in San Diego federal criminal court.

This news comes days after a victim of the GirlsDoPorn sex trafficking scheme, a Jane Doe formerly known as Kristy Althaus, sued Pornhub's parent company, Aylo (formerly MindGeek), in a Los Angeles federal district for allegedly aiding and abetting her exploitation by circulating and profiting from the GirlsDoPorn videos in which she appeared via Pornhub.

MomPOV, per Cole and 404 Media, operated in a similar manner to Pratt's studio, in that Wiederhold would falsely claim to the women in MomPOV scenes that the content would only be seen by collectors overseas, but the videos would then be posted to platforms like Pornhub.

MomPOV has also been shuttered. Both GirlsDoPorn and MomPOV had "content partner" arrangements with Pornhub that were terminated when federal charges were filed against Pratt and other GirlsDoPorn personnel and male talent.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Metallic Minerals Corp. (TSX.V:MMG) (OTCQB:MMNGF) ("Metallic Minerals" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on drilling at the La Plata copper-silver-gold-PGE project. The first phase of the 2023 campaign is testing extensions of high-grade mineralization seen in 2022 drill hole LAP22-04, which intercepted 816 meters of continuous mineralization grading 0.41% copper equivalent ("Cu Eq") with internal higher-grade zones. The hole ended in high-grade precious metal-rich mineralization grading 11.54% Cu Eq over 0.61 meters (5.42% Cu, 47.0 g/t Ag, 0.622 g/t Au, 5.016 g/t Pt and 5.393 g/t Pt).

Highlights

Over 2,000 meters of a planned 5,000-meter Phase 1 drill program designed to expand the existing resource have been completed.

Hole LAP23-05 was completed to a depth of 909 meters, while hole LAP23-06 is ongoing at a depth of approximately 1,150 meters. Both these 2023 drill holes have intersected altered porphyry mineralization with visible copper sulfide including chalcopyrite and bornite similar to that seen in LAP22-04 (see Figure 1-2).

Initial assay results are expected in the coming weeks and continuing into early 2024.

Results of the 2023 drilling have potential to expand the size of the current resource and increase the overall grade of the deposit with the inclusion of precious metals assays for gold, platinum and palladium in addition to copper and silver in the current resource.

Metallic Minerals has filed a National Instrument 43-101 technical report for the expanded resource estimate announced in July 2023.

The 2023 field campaign is being funded by a strategic equity investment announced in May whereby Newcrest Mining Limited acquired a 9.5% ownership position in Metallic Minerals with the goal of accelerating advancement of the La Plata project.

Scott Petsel, Metallic Minerals' President, stated, "The team is excited about the progress and initial indications from our current drill program at La Plata. Last year's exceptional hole LAP22-04 was a major discovery of higher-grade copper and precious metal-rich, porphyry-style, mineralization starting from surface. These first two drill holes are offset holes drilled above and below LAP22-04 to test extensions of mineralization away from that discovery hole to potentially expand the resource and test the scale of size of this higher-grade zone of mineralization. The results of this program are expected to form the basis of an updated resource estimate. This program will also assist in vectoring to the strongest parts of the mineralized system as we work to maximize the opportunity to advance this potential Tier 1 asset."

The Allard deposit remains open to significant expansion within the resource area to the east, north and west and to depth, with the potential to add gold, platinum and palladium to the current copper and silver resource with the completion of additional exploration drilling. In addition, the larger porphyry system at the La Plata project, which covers an area of over 10 km2, remains underexplored with the potential for new discoveries of both additional copper porphyry centers, as well as high-grade epithermal silver and gold systems.

Upcoming Events

Precious Metals Summit Presentation

Metallic Minerals CEO, Greg Johnson, will be presenting live from the 2023 Precious Metals Summit in Beaver Creek, Colorado, on September 14th at 4:30 pm Mountain time. Click here to view the presentation.

Adelaide Capital Presentation

Metallic, as well as fellow Metallic Group members Stillwater Critical Minerals and Granite Creek Copper, will be presenting at the Wildfire Relief series hosted by Adelaide Capital on September 22nd at 3:30 ET. Click here to register.

121 Investment Conference

Metallic Minerals will be participating in 1-1 meetings at 121 Global Online September 26th & 27th. Find registration information here.

Figure 1. Cross Section Through Allard Resource Area Showing New 2023 Drill Holes

Figure 2. Photograph from Hole LAP23-06, 480.0m to 489.0m - High Quartz-Sulfide Vein Density in Altered Syenite.

Corporate Update

Metallic Minerals announces that Susan Henderson has been appointed to the role of Corporate Secretary, effective immediately. Ms. Henderson has worked in expanding roles with the Company since 2016, most recently in the role of Business Manager. Ms. Henderson replaces Alicia Milne who has stepped down. Ms. Milne will continue as a consultant to the Company.

Greg Johnson, CEO of Metallic Minerals, stated, "We very much appreciate Alicia's exceptional work and dedication as Corporate Secretary over the past years and we wish her continued success in her new venture. Susan has been an integral part of the Metallic Group since its inception and invaluable in enabling our growth and expansion. We are very pleased to further expand her role to that of Corporate Secretary."

NI 43-101 Technical Report

Further to the news release dated July 31, 2023, Metallic Minerals has filed a National Instrument 43-101 technical report, entitled, "Technical Report on the Mineral Resource Estimate for the Allard Cu-Ag Porphyry Deposit, La Plata Project, Southwestern Colorado" with an effective date of July 12th, 2023. The report is available on the Company's profile at www.sedar.com and on our website at www.metallic-minerals.com

About Metallic Minerals

Metallic Minerals Corp. is a leading exploration and development stage company focused on copper, silver, gold, and other critical minerals in the La Plata mining district in Colorado, and silver and gold in the high-grade Keno Hill and Klondike districts of the Yukon. Our objective is to create shareholder value through a systematic, entrepreneurial approach to making exploration discoveries, growing resources, and advancing projects toward development.

At the Company's La Plata project in southwestern Colorado, the new 2023 NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate identifies a significant porphyry copper-silver resource containing 1.21 Blbs copper and 17.6 Moz of silver1. The 2022 expansion drilling provided the basis for the updated resource, including the longest and highest-grade interval ever encountered at La Plata and one of the top intersections for any North American copper project in the past several years. In May 2023, the Company announced a 9.5% strategic investment by Newcrest Mining Limited to accelerate the advancement of the Company's La Plata project. In the 2023 Fraser Institute's Annual Survey of Mining Companies, Colorado ranked 5th globally for investment attractiveness and 2nd in the USA.

In Canada's Yukon Territory, Metallic Minerals has consolidated the second-largest land position in the historic high-grade Keno Hill silver district, directly adjacent to Hecla Mining Company's ("Hecla") operations, with more than 300 Moz of high-grade silver in past production and current M&I resources. Hecla, the largest primary silver producer in the USA and third largest in the world, is anticipating full production at its Keno Hill operations by the end of 2023. An inaugural mineral resource estimate on the project is expected in Q4 2023, with an expansion drill program slated to commence in September.

The Company is also one of the largest holders of alluvial gold claims in the Yukon and is building a production royalty business by partnering with experienced mining operators, including Parker Schnabel of Little Flake Mining from the Discovery Channel television show, Gold Rush.

All of the districts in which Metallic Minerals operates have seen significant mineral production and have existing infrastructure, including power and road access. The Company is led by a team with a track record of discovery and exploration success on several major precious and base metal deposits in the region, as well as having large-scale development, permitting and project financing expertise. The Metallic Minerals team has been recognized for its environmental stewardship practices and is committed to responsible and sustainable resource development.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Website: www.metallic-minerals.com Phone: 604-629-7800

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Toll Free: 1-888-570-4420

Footnotes:

See news release dated July 31, 2023: Click Here

Qualified Persons

Jeff Cary, CPG, a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical disclosure not pertaining to the resource estimate contained in this news release. Mr. Cary is a Senior Geologist and La Plata Project Manager for Metallic Minerals.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts including, without limitation, statements regarding potential mineralization, historic production, estimation of mineral resources, the realization of mineral resource estimates, interpretation of prior exploration and potential exploration results, the timing and success of exploration activities generally, the timing and results of future resource estimates, permitting time lines, metal prices and currency exchange rates, availability of capital, government regulation of exploration operations, environmental risks, reclamation, title, statements about expected results of operations, royalties, cash flows, financial position and future dividends as well as financial position, prospects, and future plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. Although Metallic Minerals believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include failure to obtain necessary approvals, unsuccessful exploration results, unsuccessful operations, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, risks associated with regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, uninsured risks, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. Readers are cautioned that mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Mineral exploration, development of mines and mining operations is an inherently risky business. Accordingly, the actual events may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on Metallic Minerals and the risks and challenges of their businesses, investors should review their annual filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
2023 DRILLING HIGHLIGHTS:

Broad sulphide-rich intervals consisting of considerable chalcopyrite and pyrrhotite in stockwork and semi-massive aggregates have been intersected in multiple drill holescollared from the Bingo Main Zone. MAP WITH HIGHLIGHTED DRILL HOLES

Drill hole BI-23-04 intersected an 8.19 meter interval of strong sulphide mineralization between 42.18 meters and 50.37 meters. BI-23-04 PHOTO

Drill hole BI-23-01 intersected a 6.89 meter interval of strong sulphide mineralization between 24.39 meters and 31.28 meters. BI-23-01 PHOTO

Drill hole BI-23-02 intersected a 6.78 meter interval of strong sulphide mineralization between 25.95 meters and 32.73 meters. BI-23-02 PHOTO

The mineralized horizon consists of semi-massive to stockwork chalcopyrite (up to 10 %) and pyrrhotite (up to 10 %) part of a shear hosted vein within a strongly altered diorite unit that remains open to the north.

The mineralized shear zone is parallel to the axial plane of a fold identified in the magnetic signature of the Bingo Main Zone. Recently, a new fold located 1 kilometer to the north of the Bingo Main Zone named the Double Down Hinge Zone has been mapped and is being prepared for drilling in 2024. DOUBLE DOWN MAP

The Company has completed 7 drill holes for the 2023 season totaling 1017 meters.

Assay results for the drill holes will be released once received compiled and interpreted.

Vancouver, British Columbia - TheNewswire - September 14, 2023 - Juggernaut Exploration Ltd (JUGR.V) (OTC:JUGRF) (FSE:4JE) (the Company or Juggernaut) is pleased to report the discovery of multiple sulphide-rich intervals up to 8.19 meters long in all drill holes from its 100 % controlled Bingo property (the Property), Golden Triangle, British Columbia. All holes collared from the Bingo Main Zone have intersected considerable chalcopyrite and pyrrhotite in stockwork and semi-massive aggregates within a north trending shear hosted vein.

MAP WITH HIGHLIGHTED DRILL HOLES

Three holes collared from the northern part of the Bingo Main Zone intersected broad intervals of chalcopyrite and pyrrhotite mineralization. Drill hole BI-23-04 intersected an 8.19 meter interval of semi-massive to stockwork chalcopyrite (up to 10 %) and pyrrhotite (up to 10 %) between 42.18 meters and 50.37 meters part of a shear hosted vein within a strongly altered diorite unit BI-23-04 PHOTO. The same sulphide mineralized shear-hosted vein was intercepted in hole BI-23-01 from 24.39 meters to 31.28 meters (6.89 meter interval) BI-23-01 PHOTO, and in drill hole BI-23-02 from 25.95 meters to 32.73 meters (6.78 meter interval) BI-23-02 PHOTO. The mineralized shear hosted vein was also intersected in the southern part of the Bingo Main Zone, where it is thinner and less mineralized, suggesting that the thickness of the mineralized horizon increases to the north where it remains open and untested. Mapping has shown that the mineralized shear zone is parallel to the axial plane of a moderate size fold identified in the magnetic signature of the Bingo Main Zone. Recently, a new fold located 1 kilometer to the north of the Bingo Main Zone named the Double Down Hinge Zone has been mapped and is being prepared for drilling in 2024 DOUBLE DOWN MAP.

Drilling on the Bingo Main Zone for the 2023 season has been completed with 7 drill holes totaling 1017 meters. Assay results for these drill holes are anticipated to be received in the immediate future and will be reported once received, compiled, and interpreted.

The Bingo property has an area of 989 hectares and is located 45 km SSW of Stewart, BC and 28 km W of Kitsault, and only 12 km to tidewater landing and roads in the historic mining town of Anyox providing for cost effective exploration. The Bingo Main Zone contains gold mineralized grab, chip and channel samples along the axial plane of a fold hinge over an area of 550 meters x 175 meters in a region of recent glacial retreat and permanent snowpack abatement located within the Eskay Rift region of the Golden Triangle, British Columbia. High-grade gold from surface grab samples assayed up to 9.79 gpt Au. Channel samples assayed up to 1.77 gpt Au and 0.20 % Cu over 4.85 meters and 1.48 gpt Au and 0.37 % Cu over 3.2 meters, respectively. The Bingo property has strong similarities to Goliath Resources Surebet Project located next door to the east, including same mineralogy, textures and structures.

Highlights from the high-grade gold Bingo property:

The Bingo Main zone is 550 meters by 175 meters in size and remains open with high-grade gold samples locatedalong the axial plane of a fold hinge that assayed up to 9.79 gpt Au.

An additional hinge zone named the Double Down Hinge Zone with similar characteristics is located 1 km to the north.

Bingo is located in the Eskay Rift in an evolving gold district in a world-class geologic setting within the Golden Triangle of British Columbia, host to several multi-million ounce gold deposits.

Bingo contains the same world-class geological units as Goliath Resource's Surebet discovery next door, including Hazelton Volcanics and related sediments and intrusives.

Gold mineralization in outcrop, stream sediment geochemistry, ground magnetic survey, soil sampling and other lines of evidence confirm strong gold-mineralization on the property.

Mineralization is characterized by pyrite, chalcopyrite, galena and pyrrhotite.

Gold-rich fluids intruded and altered the host rock indicating a shear zone.

The Bingo property is surrounded by a number of known deposits, including Anyox, Surebet , Dolly Varden, Porter Idaho, Premier, and more.

Infrastructure includes direct access to tide water in close proximity to roads and high-tension power.

Dan Stuart, President and CEO of Juggernaut Exploration states: All the balls have fallen into place with the 2023 Bingo drill program. The visual results of the core that has been drilled this season have by far exceeded our expectations with broad intervals of chalcopyrite and pyrrhotite mineralization indicating a strong mineralizing system at depth. We are looking forward to receiving assay results and report them as soon as they are compiled and interpreted.

Qualified Person

Rein Turna P. Geo is the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, for Juggernaut Exploration projects, and supervised the preparation of, and has reviewed and approved, the technical information in this release.

Other

Oriented HQ-diameter or NQ-diameter diamond drill core from the drill campaign is placed in core boxes by the drill crew contracted by the Company. Core boxes are transported by helicopter to the staging area, and then transported by truck to the core shack. The core is then re-orientated, meterage blocks are checked, meter marks are labelled, Recovery and RQD measurements taken, and primary bedding and secondary structural features including veins, dykes, cleavage, and shears are noted and measured. The core is then described and transcribed in MX Deposit. Drill holes were planned using Leapfrog Geo and QGIS software and data from the 2017-2022 exploration campaigns. Drill core containing quartz breccia, stockwork, veining and/or sulphide(s), or notable alteration are sampled in lengths of 0.5 to 1.5 meters. Core samples are cut lengthwise in half, one-half remains in the box and the other half is inserted in a clean plastic bag with a sample tag. Standards, blanks and duplicates were added in the sample stream at a rate of 10%

Grab, channels, chip and talus samples were collected by foot with helicopter assistance. Prospective areas included, but were not limited to, proximity to MINFile locations, placer creek occurrences, regional soil anomalies, and potential gossans based on high-resolution satellite imagery. The rock grab and chip samples were extracted using a rock hammer, or hammer and chisel to expose fresh surfaces and to liberate a sample of anywhere between 0.5 to 5.0 kilograms. All sample sites were flagged with biodegradable flagging tape and marked with the sample number. All sample sites were recorded using hand-held GPS units (accuracy 3-10 meters) and sample ID, easting, northing, elevation, type of sample (outcrop, subcrop, float, talus, chip, grab, etc.) and a description of the rock were recorded on all-weather paper. Samples were then inserted in a clean plastic bag with a sample tag for transport and shipping to the geochemistry lab. QA/QC samples including blanks, standards, and duplicate samples were inserted regularly into the sample sequence at a rate of 10%.

All samples, including core, rock grabs, channels, and talus samples, are transported in rice bags sealed with numbered security tags. A transport company takes them from the core shack to the ALS labs facilities in North Vancouver. ALS is either certified to ISO 9001:2008 or accredited to ISO 17025:2005 in all of its locations. At ALS samples were processed, dried, crushed, and pulverized before analysis using the ME-MS61 and Au-SCR21 methods. For the ME-MS61 method, a prepared sample is digested with perchloric, nitric, hydrofluoric and hydrochloric acids. The residue is topped up with dilute hydrochloric acid and analyzed by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. Overlimits were re-analyzed using the ME-OG62 and Ag-GRA21 methods (gravimetric finish). For Au-SCR21 a large volume of sample is needed (typically 1-3kg). The sample is crushed and screened (usually to -106 micron) to separate coarse gold particles from fine material. After screening, two aliquots of the fine fraction are analysed using the traditional fire assay method. The fine fraction is expected to be reasonably homogenous and well represented by the duplicate analyses. The entire coarse fraction is assayed to determine the contribution of the coarse gold.

Some of the reported data is historical in nature and is a compilation of third-party data from previous operators. The reader is cautioned that grab samples are spot samples which are typically, but not exclusively, constrained to mineralization. Grab samples are selective in nature and collected to determine the presence or absence of mineralization and are not intended to be representative of the material sampled. In addition, the reader is cautioned that proximity to known mineralization does not guarantee similar mineralization will exist on the properties.

For more information, please contact:

Juggernaut Exploration Ltd.

Dan Stuart

President and Chief Executive Officer

Tel: (604)-559-8028

www.juggernautexploration.com

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENT

Certain disclosure in this release may constitute forward-looking statements that are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties relating to Juggernauts operations that may cause future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by those forward-looking statements, including its ability to complete the contemplated private placement. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these statements.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - European Energy Metals (TSXV: FIN) (OTC Pink: EUEMF) (FSE: W28) ("European Energy" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the addition of Rick Trotman to its Advisory Board as the Company continues its growth through on-going exploration of its 5,000 square kilometre Lithium-Cesium-Tantalum ("LCT") and Rare Earth Element ("REE") Finnish Pegmatite Project, in central and southern Finland.

Rick Trotman is a professional geologist with a broad range of experience within the mining industry, having worked in both buy-side and sell-side positions as well as technically focused responsibilities with major mining companies such as Barrick Gold, Meridian Gold, and Yamana Gold. Rick is currently the CEO of Barksdale Resources Corp and a director at Kenorland Minerals Ltd and Kingfisher Metals Corp. Previously he was with Resource Capital Funds, a leading mining-focused private equity firm, where he was involved in executing a broad range of investments spanning the precious, base and minor metal spaces and was also responsible for establishing and managing the firm's portfolio of exploration investments. He holds a Master of Science in Economic Geology from the University of Nevada Reno and a Bachelor of Science in Geology from Washington State University.

"Rick's varied background is a real asset to European Energy Metals with significant technical experience with both junior and senior mining companies, as well as significant experience from the financing side," commented European Energy Metals CEO Jeremy Poirier.

About the Finland Pegmatite Project

The Finland Pegmatite Project consists of ten exploration concessions in central and Northern Finland and one exploration concession in southern Finland. These reservations cover a total area of over 5,000 square kilometres and are focused on Lithium-Cesium-Tantalum or LCT pegmatite complexes located within the Jarvi-Pohjanmaa and Seinajoki lithium-permissive tracts as defined by the Geological Survey of Finland (GTK). Four of the reservations (Nabba, Lappajarvi West, Lappajarvi East and Kaatiala) lie immediately adjacent to, and to the south of, Keliber Oy's spodumene mine development project in the Kaustinen district.

Keliber Oy is a consortium, comprised of Sibanye-Stillwater (79%), Finnish Minerals Group (20%) and Finnish shareholders (1%). A Definitive Feasibility Study by Hatch dated June 14, 2018 states a JORC Code 2012 compliant Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource of 9.47 million tonnes at a grade of 1.16% Li 2 O.2

European Energy cautions investors the presence of lithium mineralization at Keliber Oy is not necessarily indicative of similar mineralization at the Nabba concession.

1. J.B.Selway, F.W.Breaks and A.G.Tindle. (2005) A Review of Rare-Element (Li-Cs-Ta) Pegmatite Exploration Techniques for the Superior Province, Canada, and Large Worldwide Tantalum Deposits. Exploration and Mining Geology, Volume 14 No.s 1-4, pp. 1-30.

2. Definitive Feasibility Study - Executive Summary June 14, 2018 by Hatch. http://mb.cision.com/Public/14755/2547948/b83a99f0255413fe.pdf

R. Tim Henneberry, P.Geo. (BC), a Director of European Energy Metals Corp., is the Qualified Person who has reviewed and approved the technical content disclosed in this release.

About European Energy Metals Corp.

European Energy Metals Corp. is a junior mining company currently focussed on the Lithium-Cesium-Tantalum Finnish Pegmatite Project in central Finland. Governing bodies in Europe and Finland are legislating environmentally friendly and energy independent laws and policies. One of the key components is access to REE and, specifically, lithium. The company's concessions are located within 11 miles of the Keliber under construction which is expected to begin production in H2 2025.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Jeremy Poirier, CEO

Telephone: 604-722-9842

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking information is typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. Such statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the future results of operations, performance and achievements of the Company, including the presence of lithium mineralization at, and the exploration and development potential of, the Finland Pegmatite Project. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that such expectations will prove to be correct. All such forward-looking information is based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of their experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management believes are appropriate in the circumstances. This information, however, is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from this forward-looking information include the costs of any anticipated work programs and the ability to fund such costs, required approvals in connection with any work programs and the ability to obtain such approvals, risks inherent in exploration as well as those described under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Company's most recently filed MD&A. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or revise the forward-looking information contained in this news release, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.
Highlights

Assay results from surface samples show high-grade TREO from 5.8% to 13.9%

Neodymium + Praseodymium grade ranged between 1% and 2.2%

Claims land holding increased 85%

Plans underway to conduct further field work to define JORC Exploration Target

DENVER, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- American Rare Earths (ASX: ARR | ADRs - OTCQX: AMRRY | Common Shares - OTCQB: ARRNF) | FSE:1BHA) (ARR or the Company) is pleased to announce high grade field assay results at the exciting new Beaver Creek rare earth project in Wyoming.

Final assay results from ALS Global confirmed TREO grades between 5.8% and 13.9%. Assays for the valuable magnetic rare earths, neodymium and praseodymium ranged between 1% and 2.2%.

These are outstanding results from the initial field work at our new project in Wyoming, says Donald Swartz, CEO American Rare Earths. The deposit is open at depth and historic reports indicate that the rare earth mineralization-outcrop may extend over 457 meters (1500 feet). We are enthusiastic about increasing our claim holdings and look forward to conducting further exploration activities to unlock the potential of this new high-grade discovery.

The Beaver Creek REE Project area is north of the Companys flagship Halleck Creek Project. The State Mineral Lease at Beaver Creek REE project covers 640 acres (259 hectares) in Johnson County, Wyoming. The newly acquired state section at the Beaver Creek REE project increases the companys holdings in the region by 85% from 749 acres (303 hectares) to 1,389 acres (562 hectares). Importantly, the state mineral lease is directly along strike from previously examined outcrops, and has the potential to contain additional, highly enriched REE mineralization.

This announcement has been authorized for release by the Board of American Rare Earths.

Donald Swartz

Chief Executive Officer

Competent Persons Statement:

This work was reviewed and approved for release by Mr. Dwight Kinnes (Society of Mining Engineers #4063295RM) is employed by American Rare Earths and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralization and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 JORC Code. Mr. Kinnes consents to the inclusion in the report of the matters based upon the information in the form and context in which it appears.

About American Rare Earths Limited:

American Rare Earths (ASX: ARR | ADRs - OTCQX: AMRRY | Common Shares - OTCQB: ARRNF| FSE:1BHA) is committed to becoming a top supplier of critical minerals. The company is a leading explorer of rare earth projects, with a strong focus on developing sustainable and cost-effective extraction and processing methods. To meet the rapidly increasing demand for resources essential to the clean energy transition and US national security, American Rare Earths is engaged in advanced study and continued exploration of its 100% owned rare earth element projects rich in the magnet elements of neodymium and praseodymium at Halleck Creek in Albany County, Wyoming and La Paz, Arizona. Both projects have the potential to be among North Americas largest rare earth deposits. The Halleck Creek deposit was recently identified by Mining.com as fifth in the worlds top rare earth projects. A recently released maiden JORC Resource report for Halleck Creek shows 1.43 billion tonnes of in-place TREO, 4.73 million tonnes TREO containing approximately 1.05 million tonnes of the highly desirable magnet metals neodymium and praseodymium. The Halleck Creek deposit is located approximately 70km north-east of Laramie encompassing portions of Albany and Platte Counties in Wyoming. The Company continues to evaluate other exploration opportunities and is collaborating with US Government-supported R&D to develop efficient processing and separation techniques of rare earth elements to help ensure a renewable future.

Head Office

American Rare Earths Ltd

1658 Cole Blvd, Suite G30

Lakewood, CO, 80401

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

americanrareearths.com.au

For media inquiries, please contact:

Susan Assadi, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

347 977 7125

Please link here for Appendix A  JORC Table 1
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Lancaster Resources Inc. (CSE: LCR) (OTC Pink: LANRF) (FSE: 6UF0) ("Lancaster") is pleased to announce results from its Magneto-Telluric (MT) geophysics program at Lancaster's Alkali Flat Lithium Project located in Lordsburg, New Mexico, USA. The MT program targeted highly conductive stratigraphic units (layers) to further delineate drill targets in a highly prospective area on the NE part of the property.

KLM Geoscience successfully completed the detailed MT program including data acquisition and inversions. The MT survey consisted of three east-west lines with ~500m spacing between receivers and lines.

The MT results along with Lancaster's recent exploratory and geochemical results have highlighted multiple high priority drill locations believed to host lithium-rich aquifers. Results indicate a near surface low resistivity layer ~150m deep along with a deeper low resistivity layer at ~660m sub-surface. Results also confirm the N-S trending basin continues from Arizona Lithium claims through Lancaster's property.

With the exciting progress made over the last few months, Lancaster is now preparing regulatory and permitting applications for a Phase 1 Drilling program in late 2023. Lancaster is preparing applications to the BLM and EMNRD (New Mexico) for three wells and a follow up full claim area geophysics program (2024).

"The results are extremely encouraging and we are planning to proceed with further exploration and development work. The successful MT program strengthens our view on the opportunity of Alkali Flats containing a concentrated lithium subsurface aquifer. Submitting our regulatory applications for follow up drilling is our next priority as we continue to develop Alkali Flats to power the energy transition," remarks Andrew Watson, Vice President of Engineering and Operations at Lancaster.

The Alkali Flats Lithium Project and the MT survey target area lie about 8 miles north of the renowned 15MW Lightning Dock Known Geothermal Resource Area (KGRA). The company will continue to review co-production opportunities with clean geothermal power on the claim area to provide clean power for future lithium development. Additionally, the target area is immediately adjacent to Arizona Lithium's Lordsburg Brine Project.

Andrew Watson, PEng, a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

About Lancaster Resources Inc.

Lancaster Resources is engaged in exploring energy transition metals to take advantage of the global shift towards decarbonization and electrification. It has an interest to acquire 100% of the Alkali Flat Lithium Project, in Lordsburg, New Mexico, USA, which involves the exploration of a below-surface lithium brine target. Lancaster's goal is to produce Climate-Positive Lithium there using direct lithium extraction technology and solar power. Lancaster recently acquired the rights to a 100% interest in the Trans-Taiga Lithium Property located within the James Bay lithium district of Quebec, and lying on the same fault as significant lithium discoveries, including Patriot Metals' Corvette Property. Lancaster plans to conduct exploration activities with a holistic view of stakeholder interests. Guiding Lancaster Resources' journey is a skilled management and technical team, with collective involvement in over 15 commercial mineral discoveries, and endowed with extensive experience in the creation of lithium brine targets and the exploration and development of Lithium projects across Canada, the American West, Mexico, and South America.

Penny White, President & Chief Executive Officer, Lancaster Resources Inc.

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tel: 604 923 6100

www.lancaster-resources.com

The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events, or Lancaster's future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on Lancaster's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, the ability of Lancaster to execute its exploration plans, obtain exploration and drilling permits retain key personnel, identify, acquire, explore, and develop high-quality mineral-rich properties and integrate sustainable energy sources and innovative technologies for climate-positive resource production constitute forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by forward-looking information.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The statements made in this press release are made as of the date hereof. Lancaster disclaims any intention or obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be expressly required by applicable securities laws.
TORONTO, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Red Pine Exploration Inc. (TSXV: RPX, OTCQB: RDEXF) (Red Pine or the Company) reports new drilling results from its ongoing exploration program. The new results validate that drilling around the boundaries of the 2019 resource in the Jubilee can extend the high-grade core of the Jubilee Shear Zone and continue to expand the footprints of mineralization in the gold zones overlying the Jubilee Shear (hanging wall).

High grade gold in the Jubilee Shear (Figures 1 and 2) Confirmation that significant mineralization exists in the Jubilee Shear which are currently excluded from the 2019 resource. 10.92 g/t gold over 28.05 metres at the intersection of the Minto B/Jubilee Shears that includes 209.1 g/t gold over 1.00 metres, 49.9 g/t gold over 1.00 metres and 28.0 g/t gold over 1.00 metres in SD-23-442 (Figure 2).

Extension of mineralization in the Minto B Shear above the Jubilee Shear 6.44 g/t gold over 2.17 metres within a larger mineralization halo containing 2.08 g/t gold over 7.43 metres in SD-23-444 3.52 g/t gold over 1.61 metre within a larger mineralization halo containing 0.49 g/t gold over 19.91 metres in SD-23-443



Quentin Yarie, President and CEO of Red Pine Exploration commented: Our strategy to encompass the upper portions of the existing resources (Surluga & Minto) into our planned future open pit/underground model continues to be validated through our ongoing drill program. We are on track to complete this drill program and release a new resource in Q2/Q3 of 2024. To date this year, we have logged over 22,000 metres of core (over 8,000 boxes of core; ~400,000 lbs), and ~17,000 metres of core cut and sent to Act Labs for assay.

Table 1 Highlights from drilling in the Wawa Gold Corridor (Figure 1)

Hole From (m) To Length (m)* Visible Gold Gold (g/t) Zone (m) SD-23-441 11 12 1.00 VG 1.4 SD-23-441 296.52 297.67 1.15 3.42 Jubilee Shear SD-23-442 20.79 21.94 1.15 1.21 Minto C Shear System 239.69 241.05 1.36 4.62 Minto B Shear 272 360.02 90.02 VG 3.48 Minto B / Jubilee



Including 272.00 275.20 3.20 0.55 293.15 319.20 28.05 VG 10.91 Including 294.53 295.53 1.00 VG 209.1 295.53 296.53 1.00 6.18 296.53 297.53 1.00 VG 49.9 308.36 309.36 1.00 VG 28.0 338.40 343.60 5.2 0.46 359.02 360.02 1 1.32 402.20 404.30 2.1 0.92 Lower Jubilee Shear SD-23-443



















16.12 17.27 1.15 1.37 Minto C Shear System 54.83 56.24 1.41 1.71 Minto C Shear System 221.52 241.43 19.91 0.49 Minto B Shear Including 240.63 241.43 0.80 5.81 330.7 342 11.30 0.71 Jubilee Shear SD-23-444







214.10 221.53 7.43 2.08 Minto B Shear Including 214.1 216.27 2.17 6.44

Assay results presented over core length. True width for the intersections varies between 50% to 95% depending on the intersected geological structure.

Quality Assurance/Quality Control ("QA/QC") Measures

Drill core samples were transported in security sealed bags for analyses to Actlabs in Ancaster, Ontario. Individual samples were labelled, placed in plastic sample bags and sealed. Groups of samples were then placed into durable rice bags and shipped. The residual coarse reject portions of the samples remain in storage if further work or verification is needed.

Red Pine has implemented a quality-control program to comply with best practices in the sampling and analysis of drill core. As part of its QA/QC program, Red Pine inserts external gold standards (low to high grade) and blanks every 20 samples in addition to random standards, blanks, and duplicates.

Qualified Person

Quentin Yarie, P.Geo. and Chief Executive Officer of Red Pine and the Qualified Person, as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed, and approved the news releases technical information.

About Red Pine Exploration Inc.

Red Pine Exploration Inc. is a gold exploration company headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Company's shares trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "RPX" and on the OTCQB Markets under the symbol RDEXF.

The Wawa Gold Project is in the Michipicoten Greenstone Belt of Ontario, a region that has seen major investment by several producers in the last five years. Its land package hosts numerous historic gold mines and is over 6,900 hectares in size. Led by Quentin Yarie, CEO, who has over 25 years of experience in mineral exploration, Red Pine is strengthening its position as a major mineral exploration and development player in the Michipicoten region.

For more information about the Company, visit www.redpineexp.com

Or contact:

Quentin Yarie, President and CEO, (416) 364-7024, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Or

Carrie Howes, Director Corporate Communications, (416) 644-7375, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

1 National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report for the Wawa Gold Project, Brian Thomas P.Geo. Golder Associates Ltd, report effective August 18, 2021.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains statements which constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of the Company with respect to future business activities and operating performance.

Forward-looking information is often identified by the words may, would, could, should, will, intend, plan, anticipate, believe, estimate, expect or similar expressions. Forward-looking information contained in this news release includes but may not be limited to: the potential for a hybrid pit and underground project. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking information is not based on historical facts but instead reflect managements expectations, estimates or projections concerning future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made. Such opinions, assumptions and estimates are inherently subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected and undue reliance should not be placed on such information, as unknown or unpredictable factors could have material adverse effects on future results, performance or achievements. Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information are the following: the Company's expectations in connection with the projects and exploration programs being met, the impact of general business and economic conditions, global liquidity and credit availability on the timing of cash flows and the values of assets and liabilities based on projected future conditions, fluctuating gold prices, currency exchange rates (such as the Canadian dollar versus the United States Dollar), variations in ore grade or recovery rates, changes in accounting policies, changes in the Company's mineral reserves and resources, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, changes in project development, construction, production and commissioning time frames, the possibility of project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses, higher prices for fuel, power, labour and other consumables contributing to higher costs and general risks of the mining industry, failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated, unexpected changes in mine life, seasonality and weather, costs and timing of the development of new deposits, success of exploration activities, permitting time lines, government regulation of mining operations, environmental risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses, title disputes or claims, and limitations on insurance.

This information is qualified in its entirety by cautionary statements and risk factor disclosure contained in filings made by the Company, including the Companys annual information form, financial statements and related MD&A for the year ended July 31, 2022, and the interim financial reports and related MD&A for the period ended April 30, 2023, filed with the securities regulatory authorities in certain provinces of Canada and available at www.sedar.com.

Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information except as otherwise required by applicable law.

Figure 1 - Plan Map of the Drilling Results

Figure 2  Cross-Section of the drill results in holes SD-23-442 to 444 outside the current resource.
United Nations Sudan envoy Volker Perthes on Wednesday announced his resignation following tensions with Khartoum as the country approaches five months of fighting between the army and a paramilitary group.

Khartoum in June declared Perthes persona non grata and accused him of bias after he denounced possible "crimes against humanity" in the conflict.

Perthes had been the UN representative to Sudan for more than two years, heading up the UNITAMS mission that was created in 2020 after the ouster of former leader Omar al-Bashir.

"I am grateful to the Secretary-General for that opportunity and for his confidence in me, but I have asked him to relieve me of this duty," Perthes told the UN Security Council.

"This will therefore be my last briefing in this function."

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres said Perthes' resignation was accepted, adding "he has very strong reasons."

Perthes warned again Wednesday that the conflict between forces under General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of General Mohamed Hamdan Daglo is in danger of further deterioration.

"What started as a conflict between two military formations could be morphing into a full-scale civil war," he said, as "the fighting shows no sign of abating while neither side appears close to a decisive military victory."

"We need to impress on the warring parties that they cannot operate with impunity, and there will be accountability for the crimes committed," he added.

Last month, when Perthes did not show up to a UN briefing on the conflict, the United States accused Sudan of having threatened to expel the UN mission, with ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield claiming Khartoum had vowed to end the mission if Perthes participated.

The Sudanese ambassador denied the claim.

Earlier Wednesday, a medical source told AFP that at least 40 civilians had been killed in an air-raid that hit two markets and neighborhood areas in the western region of Darfur, which has seen some of the worst fighting of the war.

Since April 15, nearly 7,500 people have been killed, according to a conservative estimate from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on Wednesday discussed "consular cases" in a phone call with her Iranian counterpart, her ministry said.

Baerbock and Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian "discussed their different stances on a range of issues", the ministry wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

"There was a particular focus on German consular cases" in the conversation, which was "open, clear and straightforward", it said.

Campaigners have been pleading for Germany to help Jamshid Sharmahd, a German citizen of Iranian descent who has been sentenced to death by Tehran.

Sharmahd was abducted in late July 2020 by the Iranian authorities and sentenced earlier this year to be hanged for "corruption on earth".

Iran's Supreme Court in April confirmed the death penalty.

Activists regard him as one of more than a dozen foreign passport holders held by Iran as hostages in a bid to extract concessions from the West.

His family says that Tehran-born Sharmahd, 68, a software developer who emigrated to Germany in the 1980s but then moved to live in the United States, was kidnapped by Iranian security services in the United Arab Emirates in July 2020, spirited over the border into Oman and then taken to Iran for trial.

His daughter has met US officials in Washington seeking their help to pressure Iran to spare her father from death row.

She has also brought charges in Germany against eight Iranian officials for "crimes against humanity".

Baerbock is currently on a trip to the United States and on Tuesday visited Austin, Texas. She is due in Washington and New York later in the week.

fec/bp

X
Hissene, 56, is former head of Convention des patriotes pour la justice et la paix (CPJP) and later became chief of staff of the FPRC (led by Noureddine Adam who is wanted by the International Criminal Court). A leading figure in the Central African Republics host of armed groups, Hissene has, according to several NGO and UN reports, made a fortune from mining activities in the northeast of the country.

He has also donned the political mantle. Hissene was involved in the rebellion from an early age, and rose through the ranks of the ex-Seleka to become Minister for Youth and Sport between 2012 and 2013, under the Libreville peace agreement (signed in 2012 between President Francois Bozize and the Seleka). When the Seleka came to power by force in March 2013, Hissene remained minister until the fall of Michel Djotodja in January 2014 and the dissolution of the Seleka.

Arrested in 2016 by the research and investigation section of the Central African national gendarmerie, his men forcibly rescued him from the hands of the security forces, causing several deaths and injuries as they fled across the Damara checkpoint (75 km northeast of Bangui). Members of the FPRC also kidnapped police officers from Bangui's 3rd arrondissement police station in 2015. Between 2017 and 2019, the FPRC was involved in several attacks and clashes in Ndele, Bria, Sam Ouandjia and several other towns in the northeast region. Having escaped, Hissene was never tried and his case remained pending before the Bangui criminal court, former public prosecutor Eric Didier Tambo told Justice Info.

In March 2022, during the dialogue with civil society and political parties initiated by President Faustin Archange Touadera, Hissene  in disgrace with his armed group -- announced that he was leaving the FPRC. Member of the disarmament monitoring committee set up under the February 2019 peace agreement, Hissene refused to join the Coalition of Patriots for Change, a new opposition formation bringing together several armed groups including part of the FPRC. This stance brought him closer to the current regime. He encouraged his men to disarm. It was this rapprochement that made him an unofficial adviser to President Faustin Archange Touadera and enabled him to return to live in Bangui.

Under several judicial investigations, he claimed never to have killed a chicken, but declared in late March 2022 during a live broadcast on Radio Ndeke Luka that there was a cell at the International Criminal Court (ICC) waiting for him. However, since his arrest last week, the ICC has not come forward to take up his case -- despite having arrested one of his former lieutenants in January 2021.

Arrested in another case

Justice Info learned from security sources that Hissene had been arrested on Monday September 4 at his home in Bangui. However, the SCC waited until Thursday 7 to publish a statement detailing his indictment. "The judges issued a warrant for the arrest of Abdoulaye Hissene, which was served on him on September 6. Hissene was presented on September 7 to the SCC investigating office, which held the initial appearance hearing," states the press release. Hissene is charged with "several crimes against humanity and war crimes committed on the territory of the Central African Republic in 2017, in his capacity as leader of the FPRC," says the document, which does not give the specific acts of which he is accused.

Initially, the SCCs silence cast doubt on whether he had been arrested. It wasnt the Special Criminal Court that directly issued an arrest warrant for Abdoulaye Hissene," said SCC head of communications Gervais Opportun Bodagaye on Radio Ndeke Luka. He was first arrested by the CAR national forces in connection with another case. When the SCC heard this news, it requested his transfer to face charges of serious crimes allegedly committed in 2017." According to security sources, this "other case" is an internal security matter. Hissene was arrested at his home in Bangui for harbouring a "foreigner", a man who spoke neither French nor Sango (the national language of the Central African Republic), whom he had brought to his home two days earlier, our sources said. This caused mistrust towards this former rebel who became an ally of the Bangui regime.

SCC holds its breath

As the days passed without any official statement from the court, the situation was reminiscent of the SCCs humiliation at the escape of Hassan Bouba in November 2021. Arrested on an SCC warrant, current Minister for Livestock Bouba had been remanded in custody at the Roux camp prison. The day before he was due to appear in court, he was freed from his cell by a special unit of the Central African Gendarmerie. He returned to government service a few days later. The SCC deplored this act and denounced it as an obstacle to the administration of justice.

Many expected a press release announcing Abdoulaye Hissene's escape. A number of Central African human rights activists again spoke of pressure on the SCC but this was not confirmed by the institution. And since his arrest, the SCC has been holding its breath. "It's one thing to say that justice is the governments backbone and another thing to make sure justice can do its job independently and impartially," said the head of the SCC communications unit.

"It's true that in recent years the SCC has had difficulty implementing its mandate, said Abdoulaye Diarra, Amnesty International's Director General for Central and West Africa. It's not easy work, it's laborious, and the institution is working with great determination. So we salute the work of the SCC. But the concerns have not gone away. [Bouba's escape] is a very serious matter that has given rise to serious concerns, especially on whether the SCC will be able to do its job and hear all the people it considers important to hear."

"I think that we are in the process of turning the page in CAR, thanks to the SCC, says Human Rights Watch Africa Director Lewis Mudge. But at the same time, there are many challenges."

A "non-event"?

The enthusiasm shown by the international community is not shared by the Central African Human Rights League (LCDH). "We don't see this as an act of justice," said Joseph Bindoumi, President of the LCDH. "The authorities know that Abdoulaye Hissene is a criminal who committed crimes while fleeing from the Anti-Balaka at Pk 12 (checkpoint at the northern exit of Bangui), all the way to Ndele. Everyone knows that when he arrived in Bangui, he was detained. He organised an escape, giving the impression that he was the strongest, that even though he was in the hands of the law, his men could get him out. In Ndele, he set up a republic, his militiamen occupied the gendarmerie and the prefecture. Hissene came to Bangui with his hands stained with blood. He entered the presidency, greeted people and ate with them. He taunted human rights organisations. And now they say he's been arrested. This is sure to end with Hissene getting out and taunting people again, its something we see as a non-event."

When will Abdoulaye Hissene's first public hearing take place? "For the moment, the investigation is ongoing and secret. The confirmation of charges hearing will be scheduled when the judges deem the charges sufficient," explains Bodagaye. The Hissene case is one of a dozen or so cases currently being investigated by the SCC. Referral to trial of the so-called "Ndele I" case, which led to several arrests in 2020, could be confirmed at a forthcoming hearing on September 29.
Just months before the death of Spanish dictator Francisco Franco in 1975, Julio Pacheco Yepes says he was arrested and tortured by police for belonging to a left-wing underground movement that opposed the regime.

Now, nearly five decades on, Pacheco Yepes is set -- at a hearing that opens on Friday -- to become the first victim of the Franco dictatorship to testify before a Spanish judge investigating allegations of torture.

"It could open a chink in the wall of impunity that we (victims) have had to suffer for so long," the 67-year-old told AFP at his home in Vallecas, a working-class district of southeastern Madrid, referring to the people who suffered repression during Franco's 1939-75 rule.

"It is an important milestone. Keep in mind that this all happened nearly 50 years ago. Until now, nobody, no judge, has accepted a lawsuit or heard testimony in court. This is a first."

Over the years, around a hundred lawsuits have been filed over alleged torture suffered during the Franco era, but none of them was ever admitted, according to associations representing victims.

Judges have argued that the amnesty law passed in 1977 during Spain's transition to democracy made it impossible to prosecute crimes committed by political opponents of the regime or those perpetrated by "civil servants and public order agents" such as police.

But many Franco-era victims such as Pacheco Yepes and his wife Rosa Maria Garcia Alcon -- who was also arrested in 1975 -- argue that torture is a crime against humanity which cannot be covered by an amnesty and the statute of limitations.

- 'A pact of silence' -

"What was imposed (in Spain) was a pact of silence and it has taken many years" to break it, said Garcia Alcon, 66, who heads La Comuna victims' association.

In August 1975, Pacheco Yepes and Garcia Alcon -- teenagers who were going out together at the time -- were both arrested for their involvement in the Revolutionary Anti-Fascist and Patriot Front (FRAP), a left-wing student movement opposed to Franco.

They were taken to the police headquarters in Madrid's Puerta del Sol Square, which was used as a lockup and torture centre during the dictatorship.

They say various officers tortured them there for days before jailing them for "terrorism".

In December 1975, a month after Franco's death, the pair were released on bail. Several months later they were pardoned.

In 2018, Garcia Alcon filed a lawsuit against one of the two police officers she says tortured her but it was not admitted by the courts.

She will also take the stand on Friday as a witness in the case brought by her husband.

She says one of the ways the police tortured him was to force him watch them hurting her.

- 'Only truth can heal' -

Pacheco Yepes filed his lawsuit against four of his alleged torturers in February, just months after Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's left-wing government passed the democratic memory law honouring the victims of violence and persecution under Franco.

The law was opposed by the right, which said it would only re-open the wounds of Spain's past.

Pacheco Yepes said it was difficult to gather the documentation to support his case, given the "total" unwillingness of public bodies such as the National Archive to "cooperate".

While he would like to see his alleged torturers "sitting in the dock", if the judge ultimately decides not to put them on trial, it will still serve as an important reminder about "what Francoism was", he says.

This is particularly important at a time when the far-right Vox party is gaining ground and there is "a strong current" of nostalgia about the Franco era, he says.

"The only way to fight this... is by showing how politically backwards (the Franco dictatorship) was," he told AFP.

"The only way to close wounds is with the truth... If you don't, they will always bleed."
MIAMISayUncle is debuting four new scenes starring Glenn Hut, Muscled Madison, Blake Wilder, and others.

In Anonimos In the Middle of the Woods, Hut and Russel are looking for a unique way to spice up their sex lives so they decide to head deep into the woods instead of the same old bedroom to have some fun with each other. To watch the scene, click here.

Madison is next as he prepares Harrison Todd for his first mission in Missionary Boys His Holy First Time. Madison believes Todd is ready for his mission, but he wants to check his body for any impurities first. The proper way to do the physical examination is with penetration. To watch, click here.

Other scenes include:

 The Spanish Passenger, from Dick Rides, stars Spanish performer Roxas Estheim. In the scene, his vacation to Argentina takes a horny turn. After calling a carpool service, Estheim is picked up by driver Crixxx Nie who then starts flirting with him, and the two start to hit it off in more than one way.

 Arousingly Home Alone, from BrotherCrush, features Blake Wilder and Jaycob Eloisee as stepbrothers who are home alone. After a small fight over who gets to use the TV remote, the guys suddenly become aroused by the situation and things get hardcore fast.

For more information, visit SayUncle.com and follow the brand on Instagram and Twitter.

Pictured: Muscled Madison, left, and Harrison Todd.
Ukraine's prosecutor general said Thursday the International Criminal Court (ICC) had opened a field office in Kyiv, as part of efforts to hold Russian forces accountable for potential war crimes.

Kyiv has called for a special tribunal to be created to hold Moscow responsible for violations committed during its invasion, launched on February 24, 2022.

"Today marks a pivotal stride in our journey towards restoring justice," Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin wrote on social media.

"The field office of the International Criminal Court has opened in Ukraine, the largest ICC office outside The Hague. Now our cooperation will be even more effective and efficient."

The move comes after an international office to probe Russia for the war crime of aggression opened in The Hague in March in what Kyiv called a "historic" first step towards a tribunal for Moscow's leadership.

"Unlike Russia's criminal regime, Ukraine has nothing to hide," Kostin said.

"Together with the entire civilised world, we are united by one goal -- to ensure the aggressor is held accountable for all the crimes perpetrated," he added.

Several Western countries have sent investigators to Ukraine at various stages of the war to help Kyiv probe crimes by Russian forces.

The ICC, based in The Hague, is probing possible war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the war on Ukraine.

It has also issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin over the illegal movement of Ukrainian children to Russia.
Photo credit: ESPN

Chris Mad Dog Russo has had enough. As one of the first high-profile guest panelists to join First Take after Stephen A. Smith took it over in late 2021, Russo feels quite left out of the intensifying friendship between Smith and Shannon Sharpe.

Russo used nearly six minutes of his weekly What Makes You Mad? segment on First Take on Wednesday to let Smith know his feelings are hurt.

He was your opponent for seven years. He kicked your butt, and now this all of a sudden? Russo exclaimed.

I didnt do anything for you the last two years? You didnt pick up the phone one time and say, Hey Chris, you want to go to Boulder, Colorado?'

Smith and Sharpe made an appearance together at Colorado-Nebraska this weekend for Deion Sanders home opener.

By this point, Russo was apoplectic (more than usual).

He has deserted me.

To make matters worse for Russo, fellow panelist Marcus Spears interjected at that moment to let him know he was also invited to join Smith in Colorado.

Russo couldnt handle himself.

NBA Finals in Denver, never invited  General Hospital, that show, never invited me, Russo said. You never invite me anywhere!

But to be fair, Smith retorted at the end of the segment that Russo was not invited because he previously said he was Deioned out on the show.

Deion asked us to come, Smith said. He didnt want you there. Because you didnt believe.

Hilariously, Smith also explained that Russo had secretly texted Smith afterward to let him know he was in fact betting on the Buffs.

Russo might feel left out of the Smith-Sharpe lovefest, but at least he pocketed some winnings on Colorado covering.

[First Take]
After the clinghanger ending, finally, Namgoong Min is finally back with the much-awaited "My Dearest" Part 2.

MBC teased viewers with the drama's first official poster, hinting at what to expect in the upcoming sequel. Along with it is the official release date that fans have all been waiting for.

'My Dearest' Part 2 Release Date Revealed

In the latest update, MBC announced that "My Dearest" Part 2 will officially premiere on October 13 at 9:50 PM KST.

In addition, the broadcast network also unveiled the official poster featuring Namgoong Min and Ahn Eun Jin.

It only shows that the second half of the drama will showcase the continuation of Lee Jang Hyuk and Lady Yoo Gil Chae's complicated romance as they travel back and forth between Joseon and the Qing Dynasty following their heartbreaking breakup.

Furthermore, MBC also hints at the focus of Part 2, which will be the "dramatic changes in the story" of the two main leads.

READ MORE: 'My Dearest' & Lead Stars Namgoong Min, Ahn Eun Jin Reign Most Buzzworthy Drama, Actor Rankings During Final Week

It can be recalled that the upcoming sequel raises speculation that Ahn Eun Jin's character will not be part of it and will be replaced by Lee Chung Ah, who appeared in the second half of part 1.

Interestingly, this was clarified by Namgoong Min himself.

Namgoong Min Answers Concern Regarding the New Female Lead in 'My Dearest' Part 2

After successfully concluding the show's part 1, Namgoong Min acknowledged the viewers concern regarding rumors about the new female lead.

It was after Yoo Gil Chae left Lee Jang Hyuk and continued to marry another man. Accepting his fate, he continued living his life and unexpectedly met the mysterious warrior, played by Lee Chung Ah.

Unfortunately, this sparked dissatisfaction from the viewers, expressing how they want Ahn Eun jin to remain as the female lead.

In response to the speculations, Namgoong Min posted a video on his Instagram showcasing the last scene in "My Dearest" part 1. The actor took the opportunity to thank the viewers for their "love, interest, and worries" and promised to "repay them with a beautiful love story of Jang Hyun and Gil Chae."

He also reassured fans about the loveline that will continue in part 2.

Lastly, he also gave hints on what to expect in the upcoming sequel.

"It will have more interesting and beautiful love stories than Part 1," he said, adding that "My Dearest" part 2 "won't disappoint" viewers. Not only did the MBC series deliver a show-stopping K-drama, but it was well loved by fans.

Although they kicked off with a promising start, the historical K-drama landed on its first double-digit rating during the second half.

Furthermore, the 10-episode K-drama concluded the part 1 by breaking its own highest viewership rating record of 12.2% nationwide and 11.5% in the metropolitan area as mentioned by Neilsen Korea.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Lee Chung Ah Reunites With Namgoong Min as She Joins 'My Dearest'

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article

Written by Geca Wills
Choi Woo Shik took to Instagram to he shared heartbreaking news about his fur baby, Choco.

In his recent post, the actor penned a short yet sweet message as he bids goodbye to his beloved pet.

Choi Woo Shik Instagram Features Actor's Goodbye to Choco

Choi Woo Shik dedicated an Instagram post to his Yorkshire Terrier dog named Choco, who recently passed away.

Expressing his love and gratitude for being with him, the actor wrote his last message for his fur baby.

"Choco, ah, I was so happy to meet you. Please keep watching me from there. Thank you so much," he wrote.

On Choi Woo Shik's Instagram, the actor often posts photos of Choco, introducing the cute little dog to his 8.7 million followers.

Besides Choco, he used to have a dog named Ppoppi, who once sent the actor a coffee truck on the set of his K-drama.

In 2021, the South Korean hearthrob posted a photo featuring the coffee truck with a special message from his dog, along with a banner featuring Ppoppi.

IN CASE YOU MISSED: Choi Woo Sik Attending His Ex-Girlfriend's Wedding Gains Attention Online

"Our oppa, hwaiting! -Ppoppi" the message reads.

It can be recalled that the dog first appeared in the variety show "Summer Vacation," which also aired in the same year.

Choi Woo Shik Stars in 'Murder DIEary'

Apart from his heartbreaking post, Choi Woo Shik seemed to be filming a new project overseas.

In one of his posts, the actor shared a series of shots featuring a stunning background in what looks like Australia, based on his caption.

After the 2021 hit K-drama "Our Beloved Summer" together with Kim Da Mi, Choi Woo Shik returns to the small screen with an interesting K-drama.

He will headline the webtoon-based "Murder DIEary" along with Son Seok Koo and Lee Hee Joon.

It depicts the story of an ordinary college student named Lee Tang, played by Choi Woo Shik, who gets caught up in a heated argument with a customer and accidentally kills him.

Little did he know that the person he murdered was a serial killer. This is where he realized that he has the ability to identify bad people.

Due to this, he finds himself as a dark hero who punishes people, but he is being chased by authorities after putting justice in his own hands.

Choi Woo Shik's new drama is helmed by Lee Chang Hee, the genius behind the hit K-drama "Strangers from Hell," and is set to premiere sometime in 2024.

Besides his upcoming K-drama, the South Korean hearthrob is busy with his fan meet, which will be in Japan in November.

READ MORE: Choi Woo Sik Spotted in Philippines + Is He Filming For Drama?

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article

Written by Geca Wills
"Moving" director Park In Je reveals never-before-heard stories during the filming of the Disney+ series, especially with lead star Jo In Sung.

In the 20-part episode K-drama, the South Korean star played the role of a top-tier agent who chose to live under the radar as he quit the agency.

In Moving," he also harbors superpowers like fellow agents; however, as for him, he has the ability to fly.

Director Park In Je Reveals the Challenging Part of Making Jo In Sung Ugly

During the interview with the director, Park In Je talked about how he changed Jo In Sung's appearance to fit the character.

As we all know, the actor has head-turning visuals, making him too handsome for the role of Kim Doo Shik.

Meanwhile, director Park In Je mentioned that it was one of the most challenging parts of Jo In Sung's character.

As obtained by SBS Star, he admitted that he had a hard time making Jo In Sung look unattractive.

Describing him as an "incredibly good-looking" human being, the director said that he is too good-looking to be a fugitive.

"In the very first scene that In Sung's character appears in the series, he's a fugitive living a poor life in the countryside, hiding from a National Intelligence Service agent named 'Min,'" he said, referring to Kim Doo Shik's boss, adding, "He is seen working in the orchard. As we were filming this scene, we faced an unexpected obstacle because of his looks."

According to the director, it was hard for them to transform Jo In Sung into an ordinary father living in a rural area.

For Park In Je, the actor was "too handsome for a poor guy" who is doing odd works under the sun.

Interestingly, the director said that they did all they could to make him look ugly.

"So, we made his clothes dirtier and his hair really messy. We did do our best to make him look 'ugly', but there seemed to be a limit to how 'ugly' we could make him look," the director said, recalling the changes they had during the production.

READ MORE: Jo In Sung Got Injured During Filming of 'Moving'? 'Enduring the pain is the only choice'

The said scene was at the time when Kim Doo Shik decided to leave the agency and move to a rural town with Lee Mi Hyun (Han Hyo Joo) to raise their firstborn son, Kim Bong Seok.

At the time, they also discovered that their son has superpowers like Doo Shik.

Unfortunately, one agent working under Mr. Min traced the couple's whereabouts and captured Doo Shik. Thankfully, Mi Hyun and Bong Seok escaped, but they never saw Kim Doo Shik again.

'Moving' Finale Release Date

After over a month of broadcasting, viewers still can't move on from the hit webtoon-based series.

Interestingly, the final week will showcase 3 episodes simultaneously.

"Moving" episodes 18 to 20 will all air on September 20 at 4 p.m. KST. Viewers get to watch the last three episodes via Disney+ and Hulu.

IN CASE YOU MISSED: 'Moving' Director Reveals Surprising Reason He Wanted Jo In Sung, Han Hyo Joo to Film KIss Scene on Holiday

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article

Written by Geca Wills
Organizers of an unofficial referendum on Punjabi independence being held in British Columbia have added a question to the ballot asking if India's high commissioner was responsible for the murder of a prominent B.C. Sikh leader in June. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau takes part in a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 Summit in New Delhi, India on Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick
On Labor Day weekend in Telluride, Colo., movie lovers from around the world flocked to the small, Rocky Mountain town to celebrate cinema at the 50th Telluride Film Festival. While not considered one of the big five international festivals, Telluride has become one of the most sought-after film events because of its laid-back style and prestigious premieres, and this year, I was able to attend.

It was my first festival, and, like a kid in a candy shop, I was irrepressibly annoying. I talked to Best Picture winners Chloe Zhao and Steve McQueen, I went to panel discussions with Ethan Hawke, Adam Curtis, Jonathan Glazer and a swath of other filmmakers and of course, I watched a lot of movies.

Over the course of the five-day festival, I saw most of the films that I had hoped to see at the outset but ended up missing Yorgos Lanthimos visionary Frankenstein story Poor Things and the Netflix-bound biopic Rustin, so when considering these rankings, know that those films were not factored.

So, as fall rolls around and more films hit the screens at Harkins, keep an eye out for these five films.

5. Saltburn dir. Emerald Fennell

Saltburn, which comes out this year on Nov. 23, is a psychosexual thriller about Oliver, a Tom Ripley-esque outcast (Barry Keoghan), who becomes infatuated with the preppy, popular and handsome Felix (Jacob Elordi). Over the course of the film, the two become friends and spend the summer together at Saltburn, Felixs family estate. Things spin out from there, but unlike The Talented Mr. Ripley, this film leans into the filthiness of its main characters psychology. Hes vampiric in his perversity, and for fans of pulp, it will elicit a laugh or a whispered, Sick. But, the merits of its twisted moments dont outweigh the half-baked ideas that are introduced throughout.

It attempts to be a film about aspirational capitalism, oedipal complexes and social status but fails to make a clear point about anything, hamstringing itself frequently with twists that garner gasps yet fall apart upon closer examination. Its a shame, too. With a little bit more consideration and a sharper directorial eye, Saltburn might have been able to lock onto a more intellectually substantial and emotionally affective thesis. In the end, the wonderful acting and filth offer just enough fun to make a trip to the theater worth it. Skip the popcorn, though.

4. The Bikeriders dir. Jeff Nichols

Jeff Nichols, director of gritty dramas like Take Shelter and Mud, has not made a film since 2016, and on Dec. 1, The Bikeriders will show on the big screen, announcing his return to form. The film chronicles the rise and fall of a motorcycle club from the Midwest. Its based on a book of photos by Danny Lyon and is told through a variety of interviews with Kathy (Jodie Comer), a young woman who finds herself wrapped up in this fascinating world after falling in love with the charming and ever so cool Benny (Austin Butler).

And cool is something that this film drips with. Austin Butler continues to set himself apart from his Nickelodeon child star compatriots by leaning into the iconoclasm of Old Hollywood, but the casts performance, while excellent, is one of the only things holding this thing up. About 30 minutes into the film, Nichols seems to lose his footing and the momentum of what I would consider to be one of the most exhilarating and promising first half hours of any movie Ive seen this year. The story meanders for a while, becoming more interested in building out the world of the bikers through contemplative conversations around fires rather than episodically. It doesnt totally succeed as a Golden Age epic, but it is definitely worth a visit to the theater.

3. The Royal Hotel dir. Kelly Green

Australian filmmaker Kitty Green returns with the impeccable Julia Garner for another unnerving film that situates Garners character, Hanna, and her friend Liv (Jessica Henwick) in a dive bar in the rural outback just a short drive from a nearby mining claim. The only patrons who occupy the stools are a group of hardened and cruel miners who are thirsty, and not just for beer. The Royal Hotel releases on Oct. 6 and is going to challenge the audiences expectations.

I will admit that found myself bumping up against my own expectations at first, but after letting the film marinate, I was impressed by the subtlety of its subversion. After a decade of torture-porn horror that exploits the pain of women for shock value, a preconception has been engrained into the public consciousness when audiences see two young women with backpacks. Its empowering in quiet way; one that doesnt necessarily make you want to yell Girl power! The horror  terror however may be a more apt word  is achieved in moments when you see a man standing obscured in the darkness or a group of men, uniformed and monolithic, standing by, watching a situation get out of hand and doing nothing. These images convey the constant and overbearing feeling of threat that many women feel just existing. Its a wonderful pressure cooker and will make a killing on Hulu when its finally released there.

2. The Pigeon Tunnel dir. Erroll Morris

Erroll Morris, one of the greatest documentarians, of all time has made a one of his greatest films to date, and its called The Pigeon Tunnel. His subject is the late spy and writer David Cornwell  better known to the literary world as John le Carre. Acquired by Apple TV+ and slated to release on Oct. 20, this film pulls back the curtain on Cornwells personal and historic life and at the same time, holds up a mirror to reflect Morris own work.

For many years, Morris has been seeking out subjects and stories that excavate the nature of truth. Cornwell, in that sense, is a challenge for him. As an expert in espionage and interrogation tactics himself, Cornwell is impenetrable but very frank, proving that a compelling speaker can be as gripping as any thriller, but I was mainly shocked by how philosophical their conversation became. The bits about the Cold War are interesting, but the pairs philosophical discussions about abstraction, God and objectivity added impact; especially when considering the fact that Cornwell died just months after the film was completed. The Pigeon Tunnel is a must for anyone familiar with John le Carre or Errol Morris as creative minds.

1. Anatomy of a Fall dir. Justine Triet

The best film I saw at Telluride was Palme dOr winner Anatomy of a Fall by Justine Triet. The films conceit is simple: Sandra (Sandra Huller), a German writer, is arrested for murder following the death of her husband. The story proceeds in a true-to-life fashion, following the extensive investigation and murder trial, but soon, this traditional, Agatha Christie-esque story reveals itself to be an autopsy of a family, the story eventually shifting from a story about Sandra and her husband to one about their son Daniel (Milo Machado-Graner), who watches the worst parts of his family projected up on big screens, played on loud speakers and examined within an inch of its life. Its a long film stripped down to its bare essentials, but it is riveting.

Like The Pigeon Tunnel, it offers a close examination of truth, or at least a version of it, and asks us what truths we are willing to accept for the sake of ourselves and the people we love. It is not concerned with answers, necessarily; instead it feels like answers are sometimes a hindrance to the pragmatics of everyday life. It is currently set for a limited theatrical release on Oct. 13, and if you find yourself able to see this film, do it. You will not regret it.
Signage explaining that Ontario pharmacists are able to provide prescriptions for minor health conditions appears at a Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacy in Etobicoke, Ont., on Wednesday, January 11, 2023. Ontario is planning to allow pharmacists to prescribe flu medication, administer flu shots to babies and administer RSV vaccines, when available, ahead of an expected fall viral surge. THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Tijana Martin
In this photo released by the Springfield Police Dept., two smiling police officers hold a lemur wrapped in a towel with its face, hands and tail poking out in Springfield, Mo., on Sept. 12, 2023. The lemur evaded police in the city before it was eventually captured that night. (Springfield Police Dept. via AP)
4 Shares Share

The major implications of the Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization decision, overturning Roe v. Wade, have centered on state-based rulings to remove a persons right to abortion, thus preventing clinicians from supplying lifesaving health care and undermining an individuals autonomy over their body. Further, as states eliminate this essential option in providing reproductive care, another important damaging impact of the Dobbs decision is beginning to be recognized. Namely, where abortion is outlawed, abortion-related medical care is no longer taught to the next generation of physicians.

The U.S. has the highest infant and maternal mortality rates among high-income, developed economies. Moreover, the March of Dimes reports that over 2.2 million women of reproductive age reside in areas lacking access to obstetric care, providers, or birthing centers, known as maternity care deserts. Yet in the aftermath of the Dobbs decision, various states have passed or proposed laws aimed at penalizing doctors involved in abortion, including hefty fines, license revocation, imprisonment, and felony charges. For instance, in Texas, medical practitioners who violate the states abortion prohibition can face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

The free for all abortion regulations that exist state by state after the Dobbs case has created a rapidly evolving, dangerous legal terrain for abortion, with lawsuits against doctors often adding to the ambiguity of what is permissible in different regions and what is taught in medical school. However, without proper training of medical students in early pregnancy loss management, coupled with the already documented deficit in obstetrician-gynecologists, the availability of care has already worsened in the aftermath of the Supreme Courts decision.

As a female student of color at Yale University on the pre-medical track, I aim to become a doctor who can respond to the medical needs of patients, including when and how abortion care will save a womans life. I also am acutely aware of the maternal health crisis that is currently plaguing our health care system, and I want to solve this crisis. By volunteering at local clinics and hospitals and shadowing doctors and nurses, I came to realize that addressing the complex maternal health crisis requires expanded, not reduced, access to health care services. It is critical for the U.S. Congress to understand that many students applying to medical school believe that abortion training is indispensable and will avoid moving to states where it is not taught. As indicated by a recent survey in 2022, the reversal of Roe v. Wade influenced at least half of medical school applicants across the United States to exclusively apply to schools in states that did not ban abortion.

I want to join the next generation of health care providers who will work tirelessly to improve maternal health outcomes and ensure that every woman has access to safe, high-quality health care during pregnancy and childbirth. When selecting states for my medical education, it has been a crucial consideration to me that I am trained in inclusive maternal health care to ensure that I can provide the best interventions possible for women. The practice of abortion itself will not disappear. Rather, patients will suffer primarily in states with limited to no abortion access, because the availability of safe and compassionate care for individuals experiencing pregnancy loss in those states will not be possible. To ensure I can provide comprehensive care for women, I need to rule out the states with restrictive regulations regarding abortion after the Dobbs decision in my search for medical education.

Nandini Erodula is a postgraduate student.
The Coconino County Sheriffs Office is searching for a man who allegedly fired at deputies who were responding to a report of domestic violence in Valle on Thursday.

At approximately 6:51 a.m., CCSO deputies from the William substation responded to Valle, also known as Grand Canyon Junction, for the report of a domestic violence incident involving a weapon. Deputies responding to the scene found the victim had been assaulted throughout the evening.

After deputies and a trooper from the Arizona Department of Public Safety arrived on scene, they were advised the suspect had fled and was possibly armed.

While searching the area, deputies were fired upon from a ridgeline by an unknown subject with a gun. Deputies then pulled back and a perimeter was established.

The Northern Arizona Tactical Team was deployed to the area along with a DPS helicopter. Several residential streets were closed down temporarily.

At this time, there are no reports that anyone was injured and law enforcement is still searching for the subject.

The man believed to be involved was identified as Aaron Rose, a 51-year-old white male from Valle. He was last seen wearing a plaid shirt and blue jeans. Rose is approximately 5-foot-10 and 170 pounds. He has blonde hair and blue eyes.
National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kaygulanyi commonly known as Bobi Wine has vowed to defy what he calls emotional and illegal directives from the Uganda Police Force.

Yesterday, the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Maj Gen Geoffrey Katsigazi Tumusiime announced that they had suspended mobilization tours by the Kyagulanyi-led NUP party after the group allegedly disregarded several guidelines.

The police chief also noted that Kyagulanyi used one of the rallies to incite violence, promote sectarianism, make illegitimate calls for the removal of an elected government, and issuance of defamatory statements against the President.

While addressing journalists in Kampala, Kyagulanyi said his party did not ask for permission to hold the rallies and that they only notified police. He says police have no mandate to make decisions for registered political parties and that claims about his life being in danger are just excuses to block the partys countrywide tour.

They purportedly told us to halt our activities because I was apparently a target of terrorists and they could not protect us, so they wanted us to halt our activities. They claimed that they had received intelligence information that my life was in danger, Bobi Wine told journalists on Thursday, adding that his life has always been in danger. The NUP leader has further accused the ruling government of trying to kill him in 2018.

I want to assure you that we will never obey any illegal and emotional orders, Kyagulanyi vowed.

NUPs first phase of the Wake Up Uganda tour kicked off on August 28 and was concluded on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.
The people of Hoima district woke up today to cast their ballots for a suitable candidate to replace Kadiri Kirungi, their former LCV chairman who died in a road crash on March 17th at Mataagi village in Kiboga district along the Kampala-Hoima highway.

KFM understands that the election exercise is currently underway despite the early morning downpour that slowed down the activity for a couple of hours.

The race has drawn five candidates including Forum for Democratic Changes (FDC) Patrick Musinguzi, National Unity Platforms (NUPs) Moses Aguuda, and ruling National Resistance Movement (NRMs) Uthman Mugisha. Others are independent candidates Vincent Muhumuza and Lenos Mugume.

Hoima District has a total of 94,825 voters with slightly more females than males. Additionally, there are 173 polling stations in the two sub-counties of Bugahya and Kigorobya that make up Hoima district.

According to Crispin Kaheru, the Commissioner Uganda Human Rights Commission, polls opened at 7am at some polling stations. He says a number of polling stations were relocated from outdoor venues to enclosed facilities such as classrooms, churches, and other buildings due to the rains.

There is a visible presence of security personnel across the district. So far, the role of security personnel is limited to patrolling, keeping law and order in designated electoral areas. There are queues of between 10 and 15 people at most polling stations located in trading centers and townships. The queues are much shorter at polling stations in the rural areas, Kaheru said in a statement.

Kaherus observation indicates that there are queues of between 10 and 15 people at most polling stations located in trading centers while those in rural areas are shorter.
1 of 1

   . .   -             

khaskhabar.com : , 14  2023 12:19 PM
Applications are now open for the Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Wishes for Teachers program, which awards grants to K-12 teachers across Arizona.

It is increasing by 25% this year, and 500 Arizona teachers will receive a total of $1.25 million in grants from the program, which began in 2016.

Arizona teachers in K-12 public and charter schools can apply by explaining how they would use the $2,500 grant to meet a need in their school or classroom. Applications are available at wishesforteachers.org, and will be open through 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 29.

The 2023 recipients will be selected in November through the Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers Draft Day, presented by SRP.

The program was started to help fund classroom wishes and prevent Arizona teachers from needing to use their own money for their classes. So far, the program has given $5.7 million in grants to 1,600 teachers, impacting more than 700,000 Arizona students.

This includes several Flagstaff teachers, who in past years have used the grants for science kits for DeMiguel fifth-graders, equipment to start a yearbook at Summit High School and supplies for cooking lessons at Knoles Elementary.

Other statewide wishes have included sensory materials and manipulatives for special education, vision testing and glasses, classroom makeovers and more.

The Fiesta Bowl Organization is deeply committed to Arizona teachers and their vital role in developing our future citizens, workforce, civic, community and business leaders, Fiesta Bowl Executive Director and CEO Erik Moses said in the announcement.  ... [Wishes for Teachers] means so much to teachers, who often spend money out of their own pockets to enhance their classrooms and to best serve their students. Its important that we celebrate, honor and support teachers for all they give to Arizonas students.

More, including ways to apply, can be found at wishesforteachers.org.
Demand for Kilkennys six rural Connected Hubs and its five established business centres has increased, with a growing number of professionals anow hot desking while remote working two-to-three days a week.

More than four out of ten homes sold in the city and county in recent months were bought by people with addresses outside of Kilkenny. One agent in the city revealed that 46% of buyers of large, detached family homes in a new estate on the edge of Kilkenny City had sold smaller semi-detached properties in the greater Dublin area to fund their investment.

According to the latest Daft.ie House Price Report for Quarter 2, 2023 the average asking price in County Kilkenny for a house is 283,177  8.5% lower than the national average.

Professionals who previously worked from home on remote working days are now edging back to the fully-serviced remote working bases. The council says they are being lured in by the super-fast broadband connectivity offered, along with a dedicated working space away from distractions in the home.

Data gathered by the community led Grow Remote movement also indicate that the team support provided in a more collaborative and inclusive environment, along with weekly meets ups are factors contributing to the lure of the Connected Hubs and Business Centres across the city and county.

"The top-class facilities provided for the up to 150 plus remote working stations in all ten locations also help companies address staff welfare and due diligence in terms of workplace ergonomics, separating work and home environments, while availing of secure broadband infrastructure and more," says Sean McKeown, Director of Services at Kilkenny County Council.

'More than just a Desk' further promotes Connected Hub and business centre working, gets people co-working and networking more again. The variety and quality of remote working hubs in locations across Kilkenny creates opportunities for people to live and work and hotdesk, where necessary, or even during visits here. This, in turn, supports small local businesses and communities as local spend increases.

"The physical infrastructure provided and positive business environment created is all boosting demand from employees, freelancers and the self-employed for the up to 150 individual working bases/spaces with the added bonus of being signposted to supporting bodies such as the Local Enterprise Office (LEO)," Aileen McGrath, acting Head of Enterprise with Kilkenny LEO said.

Weve seen that such a flexible, on-demand working environment is also a support for employees of companies that are still teasing out their remote working conditions for staff and for firms concerned with issues around staff retention and maintaining a high-level of professionalism in the working environment.

Kilkennys established Business Centres include:

We Do Work Centre;

Castlecomer Enterprise Centre;

New Work Junction;

Pembroke Business Centre and

Piltown Enterprise Centre.

Connected Hubs are located in:

Galmoy Community Centre;

Glenmore Community Centre;

Ballyouskill Community Centre;

Crosspatrick Community Centre

Connollys of Dunbell and

Urlingford Exit 4 Remote Networking Hub

For more information on remote working opportunities and services in Kilkenny City and county and how to book such services, check out www.belongkilkenny.ie. This project is being funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development under Town and Village Renewal Scheme.
The need to import parts from abroad is currently hampering efforts to re-open two playground attractions on the grounds of Kilkenny Castle.

These items are the 'space net' and the 'ability whirl carousel'.

According to Minister of State, Patrick O'Donovan TD, 'this is because the required parts had to be sourced outside of Ireland'.

"This has led them to being closed for forty weeks for the space net pyramid and sixty eight weeks for the ability whirl carousel," he said.

"The appropriate parts have now been sourced and will be arriving in Ireland at the end of September 2023.

"It is anticipated that these playground amenities will be fully usable by the middle of October 2023."

The multi-climbing frame was also previously cordoned off for a total of two weeks but this was repaired and brought back into use on August 30, 2023.
City officials are looking to conduct several prescribed burns in areas in and around Flagstaff throughout the autumn months.

While exact dates of the prescribed burns are weather-specific and cannot be established far in advance, these prescribed burns are generally anticipated to take place from mid-September to mid-November, according to a media release.

More information on locations and dates will be shared on flagstaff.az.gov as dates become available.

Last month, as the city completed thinning efforts in collaboration with the Arizona Conservation Corps in and around Picture Canyon, the Flagstaff City Council also discussed the outlook for continued thinning and prescribed fire efforts throughout the next year.

City Wildland Forest Health specialist Neil Chapman told city council now that thinning near Picture Canyon west of Flagstaff is completed, attention is being turned toward areas directly east of town on Observatory Mesa and near Lowell Observatory.

Chapman said there are nearly 700 acres of forest around Lowell Observatory they would like to begin thinning, although the funding for that work is still up in the air.

But thats basically the last large section of land up on the mesa that does not have treatments in place. So in addition to a bunch of fire-wise work around the buildings, that large section as well, we can do a bunch of ecological risk reduction-based thinning, Chapman told the council.

Areas just to the north near Thorpe Park are also in need of thinning work, Chapman said.

We recently had a small fire up there this spring and spent some more time walking around up there, and were kind of realizing we have some more work to do, he said. [So] Thorpe Park is a new place on our radar.

Chapman added thinning efforts are completed on the outskirts of the city, a new area of focus will be city-owned parcels across the City of Flagstaff that are more within the urban environment.

City Fire Operations Captain Dylan Guffey said those planned thinning efforts come alongside four distinct areas where officials are looking to conduct prescribed burns.

There are two areas, totaling about 200 acres, on Observatory Mesa that fire managers are looking to burn, and an area again near Thorpe Park, Guffey said.

He said they will also burn about 80 acres near the Navel Observatory southeast of Flagstaff through a contract with the Department of Defense.

And burning will occur across 40 acres at city groundwater well field No. 5 in an area south of Flagstaff off Forest Road 132, in partnership with the Arizona Department of forestry and fire management, Guffey said.

We know that these are going to be highly [visible] to the public with just a lot of public interest in what were doing up there, how were ecologically treating the landscape. So with that, as we go in to implement these, theres going to be a major focus on public outreach, he said. This is all dependent on weather; everythings got to be right as far as the conditions that we're looking for.

Guffey said as officials look to begin putting fire on the forest floor, very close attention will be paid to weather conditions. Burns will be scheduled to begin early in the morning and wrap up by early to mid-afternoon each day they occur.

That should provide plenty of time to let the smoke lift and get out of town and not have any impact to the community [overnight], Guffey said. And then our presence will be out there until those prescribed fires are out."

But that means the exact dates of the burns are not known yet.

In a media release Tuesday, city officials said they plan to coordinate with neighboring national forests, national parks, fire districts and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality to monitor smoke impacts.

And officials emphasized the importance of getting prescribed burns on the forest around Flagstaff in order to improve forest health and reduce the risk of a catastrophic wildfire.

The ponderosa pine forests surrounding Flagstaff are adapted to fire, specifically low-intensity ground fires ignited by both seasonal lightning patterns and cultural burning practices.

But those fires have largely been suppressed throughout the past century, leading to unhealthy and overgrown forests, scientists have said.

And with a changing climate, those forests already impacted by years without fire pose a significant risk to the public safety and well-being of residents, officials said.

City officials also point out that Southwestern soils do not receive nutrients from decomposition as wetter areas of the country do. Frequent low-intensity fire returns nutrients to the soil, a process vital to native vegetation growth, and brings grasses and plants that promote wildlife habitat, reduce erosion and protect watersheds.
Get all the essential market news and expert opinions in one place with our daily newsletter. Receive a comprehensive recap of the day's top stories directly to your inbox. Sign up here!

(Kitco News) - The Biden administration is proposing a dramatic overhaul of a 151-year-old law that governs mining for gold, copper and other minerals on U.S.-owned lands, which would force companies to pay royalties to the Federal government on what they extract.

The final proposal, which was drafted by an interagency working group led by the Department of the Interior, also calls for the creation of a mine leasing system and the coordination of permitting among the various federal agencies.

Under the terms of the existing 1872 law, the U.S. government does not collect royalties on minerals extracted from federal lands. The new White House plan would impose a variable 4% to 8% net royalty on hardrock minerals extracted from federal lands.

The proposal comes amidst a push by the Biden administration to boost domestic production of minerals needed for electric vehicles, solar panels and other clean energy technologies.

The working group touted the benefits of collecting royalties on the approximately 750 hardrock mines located on federal lands, mostly in the Western United States. The figure does not include the 70 or so coal mines which already pay royalties to the Federal government.

A royalty would ensure that American taxpayers receive fair compensation for minerals extracted from federal lands, the working group said in a report released Tuesday. They said the royalties could also help pay for programs to increase mining permits, clean up abandoned mine lands and help state and tribal governments that provide infrastructure and services to communities dependent on mining activities.

The working group said that while thoughtful concerns were raised by the mining industry regarding the existing hardrock leasing system that is used on certain federal lands, they did not receive any arguments as to why a properly designed leasing system could not be equally successful in the United States.

The new plan is a modernized approach that would meet the needs of the clean energy economy while respecting our obligations to tribal nations, taxpayers, the environment and future generations, said Deputy Interior Secretary Tommy Beaudreau, who chaired the working group.

The White House formed the working group last year after Biden pledged to increase the countrys domestic production of lithium, nickel and other minerals used in electric vehicles and other clean energy solutions.

Securing a safe, sustainable supply of critical minerals will support a resilient manufacturing base for technologies at the heart of the presidents investing-in-America agenda, including batteries, electric vehicles, wind turbines and solar panels, said Joelle Gamble, deputy director of the White House National Economic Council.

The report was welcomed by tribes and environmental groups, and they urged President Biden to go further to protect communities, sacred places and water resources.

These modest reforms are a good first step, but theyre not enough to safeguard our water and communities, said Allison Henderson, southern Rockies director of the Arizona-based Center for Biological Diversity. The Biden administration should use its full authority to update these antiquated mining laws, prevent more mining industry devastation and preserve a livable planet for future generations.

But National Mining Association president and CEO Rich Nolan issued a statement claiming that the proposal does not meaningfully advance the Presidents goal of securing domestic mineral supplies while supporting responsible mining.

Nolan said the creation of a leasing system, the imposition of a what he called a punitive dirt tax, and the proposed royalties of as much as 8% will throw additional obstacles in the way of responsible domestic projects, forcing the U.S. to double-down on our already outsized import reliance from countries with questionable labor, safety and environmental practices.

While the proposal is expected to enjoy the support of Democrats, it will face stiff opposition from the Republican-controlled Congress, as well as the GOP Senators who sit on key committees.

Bidens proposal was taking a sledgehammer to affordable, reliable energy, said Wyomings John Barrasso, the top Republican on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources committee.

If enacted, Barrasso said the mining reforms will force us to buy more critical minerals from China and other countries that use forced or child labor instead of harnessing our abundant resources here at home.

The Biden administration was undeterred, however, with Joelle Gamble, deputy director of the White House National Economic Council, saying Securing a safe, sustainable supply of critical minerals will support a resilient manufacturing base for technologies at the heart of the presidents investing-in-America agenda, including batteries, electric vehicles, wind turbines and solar panels.
Shenandoah, IA (51601)

Today

Clear skies. Low 18F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph, becoming S and decreasing to 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low 18F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph, becoming S and decreasing to 5 to 10 mph.
An Indiana man was sentenced Thursday to several decades in prison following his conviction for molesting a girl several times in Laurel.

Robert Lee Morrissey Jr., 60, kept his head bowed through almost his entire appearance in Yellowstone County District Court before Judge Ashley Harada, who ordered him to 70 years in Montana State Prison.

Although Morrissey maintained his innocence through his sentencing, during the course of the Laurel investigation he admitted to sexually abusing girls younger than him during his youth. Thursdays hearing offered some of those girls, now women, a chance to confront Morrissey about that abuse and applaud the girl whose coming forward led to Morrisseys conviction.

She was able to do what I could not, said one of the adult survivors during her testimony in court.

The Laurel Police Department launched an investigation into the abuse in March 2020 following a report from the state Department of Public Health and Human Services. The mother of the girl who survived Morrisseys abuse told a Laurel detective Morrissey groped her daughter on multiple occasions.

In an interview at the Yellowstone Valley Childrens Advocacy Center, which provides forensic interviews and medical examinations for children who have faced physical and sexual abuse, the girl, still in her teens, said Morrissey sexually abused her on three occasions from 2015 to 2017, from the time she was 8 to 10 years old. She later testified in court that a sex education class, along with an assembly in middle school centered on sexual assault helped her understand that what Morrissey did to her was abuse.

It happened to me and I dont want it to happen to anybody else, she said during the trial.

When police spoke with Morrissey in 2020, he denied that any abuse had occurred. On one occasion, he said he may have touched her leg. In another instance, in which Morrissey placed the girls hand on his genitals, he told the detective he may have accidentally put the girls hand into his pocket when reaching to get a Life Savers.

Yellowstone County prosecutors filed charges against Morrissey in June 2021. At the time he was working as a correctional officer at a jail in Carlisle, Indiana. During the course of his career in law enforcement, according to testimony in court, Morrissey worked as a detention officer for juvenile offenders. An Indiana deputy and town marshal arrested Morrissey on a warrant issued by Yellowstone County District Judge Ashley Harada. He made his initial court appearance in January 2022. Morrissey left custody on a $75,000 bond after pleading not guilty to the three charges of sexual assault.

At his trial in April 2023, Morrissey testified in court that he was shocked and hurt by the allegations. Along with the teenage survivor of Morrisseys abuse, her mother, the Laurel detective and an expert in child sexual trauma testified at the trial. The 12-person jury found him guilty on all three counts of sexual assault, and Morrissey has remained in custody at Yellowstone County Detention Facility since the guilty verdict.

Leading up to Morrisseys sentencing, Judge Harada received a statement from the teenage survivor. Those in court Thursday also heard testimony from two women who were children when Morrissey forced them to engage in sex acts when he also was underage. While no charges were filed in connection to Morrisseys abuse as a juvenile, he admitted to his conduct while he was being investigated for molesting the Laurel child. One woman testified in court, with Morrissey still sitting with his head down while she spoke. Another woman submitted a statement to the court for prosecutors to read.

He was manipulative and threatening, read Deputy County Attorney Sarah Hyde from the womans statement.

Prosecutors asked Judge Harada for an 80-year prison sentence. Morrissey did not see an innocent girl when he molested her, County Attorney John Ryan said, he saw an object. Ryan too commended the survivor for reporting what Morrissey did to her. Ryan said the lengthy sentence was appropriate considering the harm inflicted on the girl, her family and for the abuse that Morrissey admitted to when he was younger.

The defendant has demonstrated, time and time again, Ryan said, there is no line he will not cross when his sexual urges take hold.

Tyler Dugger, who represented Morrissey, asked the judge for a prison sentence ranging from 20 to 25 years. Without minimizing the crimes that Morrissey was convicted of doing, Dugger said there have been no other allegations raised against him since he was underage. That includes the time when he served in the military, and as a youth correctional officer, Dugger said.

When offered a chance to speak, Morrissey shook his head. Before issuing her sentence, Harada said Morrissey had tried during his psycho-sexual evaluation to portray himself as the victim. He is not a victim, Harada said, he is a serious sex offender. The girl who reported the abuse, and who as present in the court Thursday, needs to know that Morrissey was held to justice, Harada said.

Shes a hero, she said.

Harada had previously sentenced a Laurel man to 60 years in prison for similar charges. Michael Gilbert Voyles was convicted for three counts of sexual abuse in 2022. Voyles, a man in his 50s, had abused a child over the course of several years, with charges being filed after the survivor, now an adult, relayed the abuse to police nearly a decade later.

Morrissey was sentenced to 70 years for each count of sexual assault, which he will serve concurrently. While in custody, Harada ordered Morrissey to seek sex offender treatment.

The majority of all sexual assault victims are under 30, according to data from the non-profit The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network. Anonymous reports of child sex abuse can be made through the National Child Abuse Hotline at 800-4AC-HILD (422-4453). The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services also maintains a 24-hour hotline for child abuse reports at 1 (866) 820-5437.
Wyoming's congressional delegation uniformly backed the U.S. House's opening of an impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden on Tuesday, hailing the investigation of possible wrongdoing as a means to provide transparency.

Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., announced Tuesday that the House plans to launch an impeachment inquiry into Biden. This doesn't necessarily mean that the House will move to actually try to impeach the president. The inquiry could be closed without any charges. The House would also have to vote to approve any impeachment charges against Biden, if the process gets to that point.

The impeachment inquiry was sparked primarily by allegations against Biden that say he and his son wrongfully profited from overseas business dealings. This stems from claims that, while serving as vice president, Biden pressured Ukraine's government to fire a top prosecutor to stop an investigation into Burisma  a Ukrainian energy company where Biden's son Hunter sat on the board  in exchange for bribes from a Burisma official, according to reports.

The unverified allegation that Biden and his son accepted bribes from Burisma has been challenged by other evidence: The Ukrainian businessman who was alleged to have been involved said that a bribe didn't occur, according to the New York Times.

Other investigations, including by the U.S. Department of Justice, into the allegations related to the impeachment inquiry haven't led to any criminal charges.

Wyoming's Rep. Harriet Hageman said in a statement on Tuesday that an impeachment inquiry "is a serious undertaking and there are serious reasons why we are doing this." Hageman lauded the inquiry as a means to "gather all the facts and have a clear picture of the Biden family corruption operation..."

"I commend Speaker McCarthy for his leadership on this important issue, and for his decision move forward with the inquiry," she said. "As a member of the House Judiciary Committee, I look forward to being heavily involved throughout the entire process."

Wyoming's Sen. John Barrasso, who is up for reelection next year, also said that he thinks the "House is headed in the right direction."

The House of Representatives has done an excellent job trying to uncover the tangled web of corruption that we've seen coming out of the Biden administration and specifically the Biden family," he said on Tuesday in an emailed statement to the Star-Tribune. "Clearly there are facts that need further investigation."

Wyoming's Sen. Cynthia Lummis said in an emailed statement to the Star-Tribune on Tuesday that it's "clear" to her that House Oversight and Accountability Committee Chairman James Comer, the Kentucky Republican who will lead the inquiry, has "gathered sufficient evidence of wrongdoing by the President in recommending the opening of the impeachment inquiry." (McCarthy, the House speaker, directed Comer to work alongside House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, and House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith, R-Mo., on the impeachment inquiry.)

"I have confidence that Chairmen Comer, Jordan and Smith will conduct a thoughtful investigation to ensure transparency and accountability for the American people, Lummis said.

Both Barrasso and Lummis opposed efforts to impeach former president Donald Trump in 2021 following the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. capitol. Barrasso also voted against impeaching Trump in 2019 after the former president asked Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to announce an investigation into Biden  his presidential opponent  and Biden's son in exchange for U.S. military aid. Trump also asked Zelenskyy to say that Ukraine, not Russia, was behind foreign interference in the 2016 U.S. election. (Lummis was not a senator at the time.) The Senate acquitted Trump both times.

Neither Barrasso nor Lummis offered an explanation when asked by the Star-Tribune why, in this situation, they support the impeachment inquiry into Biden when they opposed efforts to impeach Trump. The circumstances surrounding these various efforts are notably different, from the allegations to the timing.
Escaped Pennsylvania killer was planning to flee to Canada before he was captured, US marshal says
The GOP-led House made a fruitless effort to restore some extra funding for law enforcement, seniors and mental health services.
Union Pacific Corporation is a leading transportation and logistics company based in Omaha, Nebraska. Founded in 1862, the company has a rich history of serving customers across North America with safe, reliable and efficient rail transportation solutions. Union Pacific operates in two business segments: Railroad and Premium Operations.

The Railroad segment comprises the company's core operations, including freight transportation and logistics services. The Premium Operations segment includes Union Pacific's subsidiary, Union Pacific Distribution Services, which provides transportation and logistics services to customers across multiple industries.

With over 32,000 miles of rail network across 23 states, Union Pacific connects major markets and communities across North America. The company is committed to sustainability and has set ambitious goals to reduce emissions and increase the use of alternative fuels.

Union Pacific has consistently performed in the transportation and logistics industry, delivering strong financial results over the past few years. It is also important to mention that Union Pacific's debt levels have been relatively stable over the past few years. For several years, the company has maintained a healthy cash position between 1 - 3 billion dollars.

Union Pacific operates in the transportation and logistics industry, which is highly competitive and regulated. The industry has seen significant changes in recent years, including the growth of e-commerce and the increasing demand for sustainable transportation solutions.

Union Pacific faces competition from other railroads, trucking companies and intermodal transportation providers. The company also competes with alternative modes of transportation, such as air and sea freight. Regulatory and political issues, such as changes in trade policies and environmental regulations, can impact the industry and create challenges for Union Pacific.

Despite these challenges, Union Pacific has maintained its market position and continues to invest in technology and innovation to improve its services and meet the evolving needs of its customers.

Union Pacific's leadership team is led by Lance Fritz, who has been the company's Chairman, President and CEO since 2015. Fritz joined Union Pacific in 2000 and has held several leadership roles. The management team also includes other experienced executives who bring diverse skills and expertise to the company.

Union Pacific has several growth opportunities in the transportation and logistics industry. The company has invested in technology and innovation to improve its services and increase efficiency. For example, Union Pacific has implemented Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR), a new operating model that has enhanced train speeds and reduced costs.

The company also has opportunities for growth in new markets and industries. Union Pacific's subsidiary, UPDS, provides transportation and logistics services to customers across multiple industries, including automotive, chemicals and agriculture. The company could expand its services into other sectors and markets to drive growth.

Union Pacific faces several risks and challenges in the transportation and logistics industry. Changes in consumer preferences and competitive pressures can impact the company's revenue and profitability. The shift towards e-commerce and the increasing demand for sustainable transportation solutions could also create challenges for Union Pacific.

Union Pacific also faces risks related to its operations and infrastructure. The company's rail network is subject to weather and natural disasters, which can disrupt operations and impact the company's financial performance. Union Pacific also faces cybersecurity and data privacy risks, which could impact the company's operations and reputation.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. is a prominent American supplier of scientific instrumentation, reagents, consumables, and software services. The company was formed in 2006 through the merger of Thermo Electron and Fisher Scientific, established players in the scientific and laboratory equipment industry. Headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, Thermo Fisher Scientific operates in the life sciences, healthcare, and analytical technologies sectors.

The company's history dates back to 1956 when Thermo Electron was co-founded by George N. Hatsopoulos and Peter M Nomikos, focusing on analytical and laboratory products. Fisher Scientific, founded in 1902 by Chester G. Fisher, supplied laboratory equipment, chemicals, and services. The merger in 2006 created Thermo Fisher Scientific, combining their expertise and product portfolios to provide comprehensive solutions to scientific and healthcare communities.

Thermo Fisher Scientific's mission is to enable customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer through its innovative products and services. They strive to advance research, enhance healthcare and support analytical applications globally. The company offers a wide range of products and services under the brand names of Thermo Scientific, Fisher Scientific, and others. Their offerings include advanced instruments, consumables, reagents, software, and services tailored for research, diagnostics, and industrial applications. Thermo Fisher Scientific's products are utilized by academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, healthcare providers, and research organizations worldwide.

Thermo Fisher Scientific's management team is led by Mr. Marc N. Casper, who serves as Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. Under his leadership, the company has grown remarkably and expanded its global footprint.

Thermo Fisher Scientific has exhibited strong financial performance in recent years. The company's annual revenue and net income have been increasing yearly. The net profit margin stands at over 10%, demonstrating the company's ability to convert revenue into profit efficiently. The company maintains a healthy financial position with a debt-to-equity ratio indicating that it relies less on debt financing and holds a strong balance sheet confirming its financial stability and ability to meet short-term obligations.

Thermo Fisher Scientific's valuation metrics show positive signs. The market has expressed confidence in the company's future earnings potential, and that confidence is reflected in its valuation metrics. This indicates that investors are optimistic about the company's future growth prospects. Thermo Fisher Scientific's stock has demonstrated solid performance, which suggests investors' positive sentiment toward the company. However, various factors, including macroeconomic conditions, industry trends, and company-specific developments, can influence market performance.

Thermo Fisher Scientific operates in the measuring and controlling devices industry, specifically life sciences tools and services. The company is a dominant player in this industry, benefiting from its vast product portfolio and global reach. Its comprehensive offerings and strong customer relationships provide a competitive advantage over peers. With a diverse customer base and innovative solutions, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for advanced scientific and healthcare products. Thermo Fisher Scientific enjoys a competitive edge in the industry due to its extensive product range, technical expertise, and established market presence. The company's continuous investments in research and development enable it to introduce cutting-edge products that cater to evolving customer needs. Additionally, strategic acquisitions have expanded its capabilities, strengthening its competitive positioning.

The company has numerous growth opportunities in the life sciences, healthcare, and industrial sectors. The rising demand for innovative research tools, diagnostic solutions, and analytical instruments presents attractive prospects for Thermo Fisher Scientific. The company's strong global presence allows it to tap into emerging markets and cater to a diverse customer base. Thermo Fisher Scientific possesses several competitive advantages, including its vast product portfolio, research capabilities, and established reputation in the industry. Its ability to provide end-to-end solutions across multiple sectors sets it apart from competitors. Moreover, strategic partnerships and acquisitions have facilitated access to new technologies and expanded its customer base, bolstering its competitive position.

Despite its strengths, Thermo Fisher Scientific faces certain risks and challenges. Market competition from established players and emerging companies could impact market share and pricing power. Global economic conditions and regulatory changes may influence the company's operations and profitability. Moreover, unexpected events like supply chain disruptions or technology shifts could pose challenges. Thermo Fisher Scientific employs robust risk management strategies to mitigate potential risks. These include diversifying its product portfolio, investing in research and development, and maintaining financial stability. The company continuously monitors market dynamics to adapt to changing trends and demands. Additionally, strong governance and compliance practices ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.
DBS Group Holdings Ltd provides commercial banking and financial services in Singapore, Hong Kong, rest of Greater China, South and Southeast Asia, and internationally. It operates through Consumer Banking/Wealth Management, Institutional Banking, Treasury Markets, and Others segments. The Consumer Banking/Wealth Management segment offers banking and related financial services, including current and savings accounts, fixed deposits, loans and home finance, cards, payments, investment, and insurance products for individual customers. The Institutional Banking segment provides financial services and products for bank and non-bank financial institutions, government-linked companies, large corporates, and small and medium sized businesses. Its products and services comprise short-term working capital financing and specialized lending; cash management, trade finance, and securities and fiduciary services; treasury and markets products; and corporate finance and advisory banking, as well as capital markets solutions. The Treasury Markets segment is involved in the structuring, market-making, and trading in a range of treasury products. The company was founded in 1968 and is headquartered in Singapore.
Gran Tierra Energy Inc. (TSE:GTE) issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November, 2nd. The company reported $0.10 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts' consensus estimates of $0.50 by $0.40. The firm earned $103.77 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $110.60 million. Gran Tierra Energy had a net margin of 8.12% and a trailing twelve-month return on equity of 13.55%. The firm's quarterly revenue was up 51.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned ($7.10) EPS.
John Wood Group PLC, together with its subsidiaries, provides consulting, project management, and engineering solutions to energy and built environment worldwide. It operates through Projects, Operations, Consulting, and Investment Services segments. The Projects segment provides engineering design and project management services across energy and materials markets including oil and gas, chemicals, mining, minerals, and life sciences. The Operations segment offers decarbonisation, maintenance, modifications, brownfield engineering, asset management, and decommissioning services. The Consulting segment provides technical consulting, digital consulting, and energy asset and technology solutions. The Investment Services segment engages in industrial power and heavy civil engineering activities. John Wood Group PLC was incorporated in 1961 and is headquartered in Aberdeen, the United Kingdom.
North Dakota oil production rose in July to a level not seen in two years, while natural gas production set a monthly record, the state's top oil regulator said Thursday.

The state produced an average of nearly 1.18 million barrels per day in July, a 1% rise from June.

Natural gas production rose by 1% in July to more than 3.28 billion cubic feet per day, making for a total of 101.98 billion cubic feet over the month.

The state of North Dakota has never before produced over 100 billion cubic feet of natural gas in a month, State Mineral Resources Director Lynn Helms said Thursday.

The state's figures lag two months as officials collect and analyze data from energy companies.

West Texas Intermediate crude, the U.S. oil pricing benchmark, was trading at $88.52 per barrel on Thursday, compared with an average of $76.03 in July and $70.27 in June. The highest price on record was $134 in June 2008.

Oil prices are projected to continue to rise following announcements by Saudi Arabia and Russia that they both plan to cut production through the end of the year.

The state's drilling rig count as of Thursday was 33, down from 37 in August. Rig count statewide is expected to gradually rise to the mid-forties over the next two years, according to Mineral Resources.

Helms attributed the low rig count to workforce shortages.

Oil and gas companies in North Dakota are expected to see a boost in employment numbers as the state continues to receive Ukrainian citizens who will fill oilfield positions as part of the Bakken Global Recruitment of Oilfield Workers program.

Helms said the first group of Ukrainians has started working and another group is expected soon.

My understanding from talking with the folks in the program is theres about 500 people waiting in Ukraine that are signed up and ready to come as we get the process up to speed, he said.

Corporate mergers and acquisitions have played a role in the low rig counts as well. Colorado-based Ovintivs sale of its Bakken assets to Grayson Mill of Houston earlier this year was causing some disruptions, Helms said.

The rig count was still high enough to maintain production Helms added, but not enough to create strong growth of more than 1 or 2% (annually).

Well completion, which is the process needed to prepare a well for production, rose to 91 in August.

Eighty-seven wells were permitted in August. The state now has 18,101 active wells.

Producers had a 96% natural gas capture rate across the state in August, up from 94% in July. The state target of 91% aims to cut into the wasteful flaring of natural gas due to a lack of pipeline infrastructure and processing capacity. Gas capture on the Fort Berthold Reservation remained at 98%.

Helms said there is a strong push to expand oil and gas production beyond core areas such as Fort Berthold.

As production moves outward, infrastructure will need to follow in order to keep flaring down, he said.

The North Dakota Petroleum Council, a trade group that represents over 550 oil and gas companies, also praised the gas capture and production records in a statement Thursday.

Reaching this level of gas capture is truly impressive, and even more so considering the infrastructure capacity constraints that were overcome to get here, said Brady Pelton, the group's vice president.
Moon River Studios, Inc., formerly Medient Studios Inc., operates a film production facility. FONU2, Inc. operates under the name Moon River Studios. Moon River Studios is a film studio, production and social commerce company. Moon River Studios is engaged in the development of an approximately 1,560 acre film studio complex in Effingham County, Georgia. The Company's facilities and the equipment are available for rental to production companies, as well as can be utilized by the Company for its own films. The Company's projects include James Brown: The Last Show, Mara and Yellow. The Company's production office facilities include various amenities, such as wireless fidelity (wifi) access, wireless printing, workstation for approximately 10, private office, and open spaces for spreading out or collaboration. The Company offers grips and electrics or equipment, such as jibs and cranes, Kino Flo lighting, grip vans and grip trucks, and Fisher dollies.
Prologis (NYSE:PLD) pays an annual dividend of $3.48 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 3.58%. The company has been increasing its dividend for 10 consecutive years, indicating the company has a strong committment to maintain and grow its dividend. The dividend payout ratio is 107.41%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on earnings estimates, PLD will have a dividend payout ratio of 62.59% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend.

Read our dividend analysis for PLD.
The Charles Schwab Corporation is a financial services company that offers a wide range of investment services, including brokerage, banking, and financial advisory services. Founded in 1971 and headquartered in Westlake, Texas, the company operates through two main segments: Investor Services and Advisor Services. The Investor Services segment offers individual investors retail brokerage and banking services, while the Advisor Services segment provides custodial, trading, and support services to independent investment advisors. In 2020, the company completed its acquisition of TD Ameritrade, further expanding its client base and offerings.

Charles Schwab Corporation's management team is led by Walt Bettinger, who has been the company's President and Chief Executive Officer since 2008. Mr. Bettinger joined the company in 1995 and has held various leadership roles, including Chief Operating Officer and Head of Schwab Institutional.

Over the past few years, Charles Schwab Corporation has experienced steady growth in its key financial metrics. It is reporting increased revenue and increased profit margin. Charles Schwab Corporation's valuation metrics are generally in line with industry peers. The company's price-to-earnings ratio is slightly lower than the industry average, and the company's price-to-book ratio is also somewhat lower than the industry average. Charles Schwab Corporation's stock has generally performed well over the past few years, with some fluctuations in response to broader market conditions and regulatory changes. The company's stock price has outperformed the S&P 500 for several years. The company has also experienced increases in trading volume in response to changes in market conditions and regulatory changes.

Charles Schwab Corporation operates in the financial services industry, which has experienced significant growth and transformation over the past few years. The industry has been impacted by a range of factors, including advances in technology, changing consumer preferences, and regulatory changes. Charles Schwab Corporation competes with other financial services firms, including traditional brokerage firms, online investment platforms, and banks.

Charles Schwab Corporation has a range of potential growth opportunities, including expanding its offerings to meet the evolving needs of its clients. The company has been investing in technology and digital platforms to improve its services and attract new clients. In addition, the company's acquisition of TD Ameritrade has provided new opportunities for growth and expansion. The company also focuses on expanding its international presence and exploring new markets.

Charles Schwab Corporation faces a range of potential risks and challenges, including changes in regulatory and political environments that may impact the company's operations and profitability. The financial services industry is subject to a wide range of regulations, and changes in these regulations could significantly impact the company's operations. In addition, the industry is subject to intense competition, which could affect the company's ability to attract and retain clients.

Another potential risk is the impact of market volatility on the company's operations. Charles Schwab Corporation generates a significant portion of its revenue from commissions and fees, which are impacted by changes in market conditions. In periods of market volatility, clients may reduce their trading activity, which could affect the company's revenue and profitability.

The company also faces risks related to data security and privacy. The company collects and stores sensitive financial and personal information on its clients. Any breach of this data could significantly impact the company's reputation and financial performance.

To address these risks and challenges, Charles Schwab Corporation is focused on maintaining a robust regulatory compliance program and investing in data security and privacy measures. The company is also focused on diversifying its revenue streams and expanding its offerings to meet the evolving needs of its clients.
The earliest precursor to U.S. Bancorp was founded in 1863 and is now headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The company owns the 24th national charter, issued in 1863, and is the second oldest original charter holder still in existence. Today, the bank is the 5th largest financial institution in the U.S. and is considered to be systemically important by the FSB. The companys revenue in 2021 topped $22.7 billion, it listed more than $573 million in total assets and employed more than 68,700 people.

U.S. Bancorp Is now operating as a financial services holding company. The company provides various financial and banking-related services to individuals, businesses, institutions, and governments under the U.S. Bank, Elavon, and Elan Financial Services banners. Elavon is a payment processor for merchants while Elan Financial Services is a credit card issuer that works in conjunction with small banks and credit unions across the U.S.

The U.S. Bank's name got its start in 1891 as the United States National Bank of Portland. That bank was merged with several others over the years before the one resulting in US Bancorp of Oregon. That bank lasted until the late 1990s when it was merged with the First Bank System of Minnesota. That merger created the now-recognizable U.S. Bancorp but the mergers do not end there. A final takeover by Firstar, another bank with a long history of mergers, resulted in the bank being traded on the New York Stock Exchange today.

U.S. Bank operates in 5 segments that include Corporate and Commercial Banking, Consumer and Business Banking, Wealth Management and Investment Services, Payment Services and Treasury and Corporate Support segments. The companys long-term debt all carries AA or A+ ratings and are considered investment quality.

U.S. Bancorps financial services include deposits, checking, savings accounts, and CDs as well as a range of lending and investment services. Lending services include consumer and business loans, lines of credit and credit cards as well as personal loans, and others. Investment and insurance services include asset management, fund administration, IRA, and access to markets. Services are available through a network of 2,213 branch offices throughout the western and midwestern U.S. Accounts are also accessible through 4,052 ATMs, mobile, online, and telephone. U.S. Bancorp has operations in 26 states.
Pupahtpong curry, or red curry with crab, is served at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul's buffet restaurant The Market Kitchen during a promotion to celebrate Korea-Thailand relations. / Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Seoul



By Lee Hae-rin



Four Seasons Hotel Seoul presents a special culinary and cultural experience to celebrate the 65th anniversary of Korea-Thailand relations, in collaboration with the Thai Embassy in Seoul and Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River.



The hotel offers an authentic Thai dining experience at its international buffet restaurant The Market Kitchen from Sept. 8 to 17.



Guests can explore Thai cuisine made by chefs from Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, from the fresh Som Tam (green papaya salad) crafted before their eyes at the restaurant's live station to Tod Mun Goong (deep-fried shrimp), Tom Yum Goong (spicy and sour soup) and sweet mango sticky rice dessert.



To elevate the dining experience, the restaurant plays traditional and modern Thai music in the background, while its staff dress in Thai national costume and offer Thai dance performances on weekdays, dinner and weekends.



From Sept. 8 to 11, the bartenders of BKK Social Club, a bar at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok that ranked third in Asia's 50 Best Bars, presented special cocktails at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul's speakeasy bar Charles. H.



Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, located at the open riverfront at the heart of the Thai capital's Creative District, features destination restaurants and lounges, urban wellness centers surrounded by tropical greenery and art-filled event spaces.


President Yoon Suk Yeol shakes hands with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping during their summit at a hotel in Bali, Indonesia, in this Nov. 15, 2022 photo. Yonhap



Seoul, Beijing, Tokyo in talks to hold trilateral summit within this year: foreign ministry



By Lee Hyo-jin



South Korea seeks to stabilize diplomatic relations with China and Russia that have grown strained amid increasing geopolitical confrontations between Seoul, Washington, Tokyo on one side and Pyongyang, Beijing and Moscow on the other.



Maintaining stable relations with China and Russia is becoming an important task for South Korea as Pyongyang gears up to reopen its borders after a years-long COVID-19 lockdown and normalize relations with its two key allies.



Analysts viewed that China has been sending some positive signals in response to South Korea's move to improve bilateral relations, as it grows increasingly wary of the expansion of the U.S.-led order in Northeast Asia, as seen from the Seoul-Washington-Tokyo trilateral summit held at Camp David earlier this month.



"It is too early to say that there will be rapid progress, but we are seeing some improvements in South Korea-China relations which have been locked in a slump for quite a long time," said Kang Joon-young, a professor of Chinese studies at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies.



He mentioned that several meetings between senior diplomats of the two countries took place in recent weeks.



Most recently, South Korea's Second Vice Foreign Minister Oh Young-ju traveled to Beijing where she met Li Fei, China's assistant minister of commerce, and held the 27th meeting of a bilateral joint economic committee on Tuesday.





South Korea's Second Vice Foreign Minister Oh Young-ju, left, shakes hands with Li Fei, China's assistant minister of commerce, during the 27th meeting of bilateral joint economic committee in Beijing, Tuesday. Courtesy of Ministry of Foreign Affairs


By Simon Hutagalung



On Aug. 28, China unveiled a new map of its territory, which includes the disputed territories it claims in the South China Sea and Taiwan, as well as along its western frontier with India. It was during the so-called National Mapping Awareness Publicity Week that the People's Republic of China's Ministry of Natural Resources posted the 2023 edition of its standard map on the website of its cartographic service. According to official Chinese media, "the drawing method of national boundaries of China and various countries around the world" was used to construct the map. There is nothing novel about these assertions. The publication of this report, however, heralds the beginning of the summit season.



The new version of the map includes the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, which China has long claimed to be the southern section of Tibet, as well as the parched northern extension of Ladakh, known as Aksai Chin, which China has occupied since the conclusion of the 1962 Sino-Indian War. Several small islands and islets claimed by Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Indonesia are included in a "10-dash line" that encircles the South China Sea (nine dashes) and the entire island of Taiwan (the 10th dash).



The Philippines has joined the ranks of China's other regional neighbors in protesting the country's new national map, with remarks similar to those issued by Malaysia and India. Every few years since at least 2006, Beijing has released a new edition of its national map to fix what it calls "problematic maps" that misrepresent China's territorial borders. On Thursday, Philippine officials claimed they had "rejected" the map because it showed a dashed line through disputed territory in the South China Sea that had been the subject of a 2016 international tribunal judgment in Manila's favor.



China's "purported sovereignty and jurisdiction over Philippine features and maritime zones (has) no basis under international law," according to a statement released by the Philippines' Foreign Affairs department. Arunachal Pradesh, an Indian state, and the contested Aksai-Chin plateau were added to China's territory, prompting India to submit a "strong protest" on Tuesday. "We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the China side on the so-called 2023 standard map of China that lays claim to India's territory," said Arindam Bagchi, India's foreign secretary.



The Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also rejected China's "unilateral claims," saying the Southeast Asian country "is consistent in its position of rejecting any foreign party's claims to sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction on Malaysia's maritime features." Wang Wenbin, a spokeswoman for China's foreign ministry, rejected the accusations during a regular news briefing on Wednesday, calling the changes a "routine exercise of sovereignty by the law. We hope all parties involved can maintain a level head and avoid jumping to hasty conclusions."



There are more nations with whom China has territorial disputes than with which it shares borders. Under Xi Jinping's leadership, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has attempted to exert territorial control over other sovereign regions through dishonest techniques and manipulation. In its expansionist drive to gain control of additional land, Beijing has disregarded all international rules. China has asserted sovereignty over a portion of India's northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, claiming the territory as historical Tibetan territory. Desperately, in April this year, Beijing "renamed" as many as 11 Indian sites, changing the names of mountains, rivers and even neighborhoods. Beijing has used similar strategies previously. Another political conflict was sparked by China's civil affairs ministry renaming Indian sites in 2017 and 2021. At the time, New Delhi warned of China's expansionist intentions.



China has been exercising its geopolitical muscle in the 21st century for the past year, while the rest of the globe has been dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, it has fallen out of favor with several other nations. China has imposed economic restrictions on Australia, clashed militarily with India along their shared border and virtually seized control of areas of the contested South China Sea, where its territorial claims overlap with those of many Southeast Asian nations. The tone of Chinese ambassadors abroad, both in person and on Twitter, which is blocked in China, has hardened in recent years. The term "wolf warrior diplomacy" was coined to parody the patriotic Chinese action films that inspired it.



In a nutshell, the aggressive behavior of China must be curbed as soon as possible by the combined efforts of international institutions and major countries such as the United States, India, the United Kingdom, Australia and Japan. As tensions build and rival nations jockey for position in the South China Sea, the issue must be resolved. Although the United States prefers peace and stability in the area, it would be wise for it to establish dynamic alliances to restrain Chinese expansion along strategic sea routes.



Expanded military alliances would guarantee the United States remains "the security partner of choice for most nations in the region," as advocated by the 19th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Economic cooperation might reward positive regional conduct. The U.S. military would play a prominent role in coalition operations as a vital component in the projection of national power (via diplomacy, might, economic strength and informational dominance). The United States wants business and stability in East Asia, but it must strike a delicate balance between deterrence and flexibility to make that happen.





Simon Hutagalung serves in the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The views expressed in this article are his own and do not represent those of the ministry.






Angola, IN (46703)

Today

Snow showers this evening. Becoming clear later. Low 23F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 40%..

Tonight

Snow showers this evening. Becoming clear later. Low 23F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 40%.
The North Dakota Supreme Court on Thursday denied the Friends of the Rail Bridges request that the court take "original jurisdiction" in a case that seeks to revoke permits of construction and demolition of a bridge over the Missouri River.

The preservation nonprofit Friends of the Rail Bridge is trying to save the 140-year-old Bismarck Mandan Rail Bridge so that it can be converted into a walking bridge tourist attraction following the decision by Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway to replace the bridge as it "is approaching the end of its useful life and needs to be replaced," according to an environmental review by the U.S. Coast Guard.

BNSF in June began preliminary work for construction of the new $100 million bridge that will take three years to complete. The company in April obtained two sovereign lands permits from the state Department of Water Resources -- the final two permits needed to begin construction.

Sovereign lands of North Dakota are defined as areas lying within the ordinary high-water marks of navigable lakes and streams. The two permits approve construction of a new bridge and removal of the old.

FORB appealed the issuance of the two permits in May with the state district court. The appeal was dismissed in June by South Central District Judge Jackson Lofgren on technical grounds without ruling on any of the appeal's claims.

The group in mid-July appealed Lofgren's ruling to the Supreme Court and in a separate action days later asked the high court to take "original jurisdiction" in the matter. If granted, the justices would have decided ownership of the bridge rather than potentially sending the matter back to Lofgren to decide.

FORBs underlying argument maintains the state owns not just the riverbed but also any permanent fixtures that were attached at the time of statehood, which would include the rail bridge.

"BNSF has a clear right of way and a clear ability to construct, but they were not granted the bridge. The bridge belongs to the state of North Dakota," Delmore said at a Supreme court hearing in August.

Assistant Attorney General Jennifer Verleger, representing the Department of Water Resources, in her argument said that We shouldnt even be here -- that it would be improper to circumvent the FORB appeal that is already underway. Verleger also told the justices that the issue of bridge ownership does not need to be addressed at this time as "BNSF has applied for and has valid permits -- at least for the time being -- so its unnecessary for the court to address the (ownership) issue."

The decision on Thursday Denied FORBs request for "original jurisdiction" and said that the "Court will not exercise its supervisory powers merely because the appeal may involve an increase of expenses or an inconvenient delay."

The original appeal to Lofgren's ruling is still not decided.

The decision continued by saying that "issues presented in this petition will be fully reviewable in the pending appeal from the district court."

"Original jurisdiction is an extremely high bar to reach and it is seldom given," FORB attorney Bill Delmore said following the decision. "All of the issues that we laid out are still on the table."
Kendallville, IN (46755)

Today

Snow showers this evening. Becoming clear later. Low 24F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 40%..

Tonight

Snow showers this evening. Becoming clear later. Low 24F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 40%.
Thank you for reading!

Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue.
Twenty-five North Dakota video producers are questioning the states handling of its Motion Picture Production and Recruitment grants in an open letter to Gov. Doug Burgum.

The producers, who represent 17 video production companies across the state, are concerned about the bidding process for grants in the past two budget cycles: Just one production company has received all of the $700,000 in grant funding that has been disbursed during that time frame. Canticle Productions, founded by the University of Marys Chair of Dramatic Arts Daniel Bielinski, was awarded $100,000 to produce a feature-length film in 2021 and $600,000 for two additional projects in July.

North Dakota Film Association founder Matt Fern said he first found out about this years grant through a news release announcing the recipient. The application period was announced just before 4 p.m. on July 21, and it closed July 31 -- a period that totaled just over six business days.

The open letter contrasted that application period with the application process for another film grant from 2020, administered by the Department of Commerce for $25,000. The 2020 grant included two rounds of submissions -- a 50-day initial application period and a subsequent finalist round.

Commerce Department spokesperson Amber Werner said that grant came from the department's discretionary funds, which absolved it of any time frame for disbursement. The 2023 program, on the other hand, is a legislative grant, which requires the funds be distributed and spent before the end of the budgetary cycle on June 30, 2025. As a result, Werner said, the shorter application period was intended to give the recipient as much time as possible to use the money.

Fern said he found the application's time frame, and his lack of knowledge of the grant, concerning, so he reached out to other filmmakers in the state. In those conversations, he said, most people told him they hadnt heard of the grant, or that they too found out about it from the news release. In correspondence with the states Department of Commerce, he said, he confirmed the grants existence and timeline, as well as the existence of a $100,000 grant that was awarded to Canticle Productions in 2021.

We just were concerned by the fact that over the last three years, $700,000 was awarded to video production companies, but only four companies even had a chance to apply, Fern said. And even out of that $700,000, only one company was awarded everything.

Documents obtained by the Tribune indicate the department determined the Legislature intended for the 2023 funds to be awarded to a single company and not divided among multiple applicants. Werner told the Tribune the department made that determination of legislative intent independently.

The documents show Canticle Productions was selected as the grant winner through a point-based evaluation process in which three department staff members scored project applications on various factors, including applicant experience, preparation for distribution and alignment of the project with the legislations goals.

The filmmakers letter to the governor expressed concerns with Canticles application for the grant, claiming the production companys submission was missing details that are typically included in film grant applications, such as timelines, cast, crew and project budgets.

Fern said filmmaking in North Dakota is challenging because of the states lack of infrastructure and tax incentives for filmmakers. As a result, a grant of hundreds of thousands of dollars earmarked for filmmaking has the potential to enable the recipient to become more competitive in the industry, he said.

Gina Footh, owner of Lostwood Media and a signatory of the letter, said the grant could have had more of a positive impact on the North Dakota filmmaking community if it was publicized more broadly. Dividing the money among multiple bidders could have also bolstered the states film industry, she said.

This is $600,000. There's a lot of money, which can be distributed amongst several different filmmakers, several different projects, instead of one company, Footh said. So this really could have helped a lot of people in this state who are struggling to try and support their families and support their communities.

The letter to Burgum did not seek a specific remedy. Governor's spokesman Mike Nowatzki declined a Tribune request for comment on whether Burgum might look into the matter or consider taking any action.

Canticle Productions will put the $600,000 toward the production of two feature films centered around notable figures in North Dakota history. One was pitched as the tale of Hazel Miner, a farm girl who died saving her younger siblings during a blizzard in 1920, and the other is intended to chronicle the lives and love story of the Marquis de Mores and his wife, Medora. Multiple Tribune requests for comment to Canticle and founder Daniel Bielinski went unanswered.

The production company is known for its creation of North Dakota-based Western independent films, including 2022s Sanctified and 2023s End of the Rope. On Sept. 1 it started a crowdfunding campaign for the two upcoming features. Canticle is seeking $10,000 to assist in the films production and does not mention the grant it received from the state in the campaign.
Sao Paulo, Sep 14 (AP) Brazil's Supreme Court justices on Wednesday began deciding whether to convict defendants accused of storming top government offices on January 8 in an alleged bid to forcefully restore former President Jair Bolsonaro to office.

Bolsonaro supporter Aecio Lucio Costa Pereira, 51, was first in line.

Also Read | Mexico: 1,000 Years Old Two Mummified Corpses of Alien Displayed in Mexican Congress by UFO Expert (Watch Video).

In January, cameras at the Senate filmed him wearing a shirt calling for a military coup and recording a video of himself praising others who had also broken into the building. Almost 1,500 people were detained on the day of the riots, though most have been released.

Pereira denied any wrongdoing and claimed he took part in a peaceful demonstration of unarmed people.

Also Read | What Would It Take to Make Aviation Green in the EU?.

Three other defendants also were standing trial Wednesday as part of the same case, but a final decision for each defendant could drag into coming days.

The rioters refused to accept the right-wing leader's defeat to leftist Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, whose inauguration took place one week before the uprising. Lula also governed Brazil between 2003-2010 and beat Bolsonaro by the narrowest margin in Brazil's modern history.

The buildings of Congress, the Supreme Court and presidential palace were trashed by the pro-Bolsonaro rioters. They bypassed security barricades, climbed onto roofs, smashed windows and invaded all three buildings, which were believed to be largely vacant on the weekend of the incident.

Lula has accused Bolsonaro of encouraging the uprising.

The incident recalled the January 6, 2021, assault on the US Capitol by supporters of then-President Donald Trump. Politicians warned for months that a similar uprising was a possibility in Brazil, given that Bolsonaro had sown doubt about the reliability of the nation's electronic voting system  without any evidence. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Michael Cohen, who worked as President Trumps personal lawyer and New York fixer for more than a decade, suggested that Trump had skirted or violated federal banking, tax and campaign finance laws.

It wasnt that long ago that Michael Cohen and congressional Republicans were on the same side.

In 2017, President Trumps former personal attorney was on Capitol Hill to defend his boss, in testimony he now admits contained lies. Since then, in the wake of what Cohen called the daily destruction of our civility to one another, the former fixer flipped on the president and pleaded guilty to lying to Congress, tax evasion and other criminal activity.

On Wednesday, in a packed congressional hearing room, Cohen issued a blunt warning to the Republican lawmakers trying to discredit and rattle him in defense of the president.

Advertisement

I did the same thing that youre doing now for 10 years. I protected Mr. Trump for 10 years, Cohen told his former allies. I can only warn people. The more people that follow Mr. Trump  as I did blindly  are going to suffer the same consequences that Im suffering.

It was one of several hostile exchanges between Cohen and Republicans during the daylong hearing before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, considered one of the most rambunctious panels on Capitol Hill.

It was also the first in what could be a long series of Democratic House hearings investigating the presidency.

Cohen, who is headed to prison in two months for as long as three years, expressed a combination of remorse and contrition for a 10-year career working for Trump.

Well-prepared and well-spoken, he mostly remained calm as GOP lawmakers methodically detailed his past crimes and repeated lies, making little effort to defend or explain beyond claiming it was all to protect Trump.

At times he appeared frustrated with the relentless GOP line of questioning. When Rep. Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.) called him a pathological liar, Cohen snapped back, Are you referring to me or the president?

Advertisement

He even tried to claim the high ground when Republicans criticisms grew personal. At one point, they hung a banner in the hearing room that read, Liar, liar, pants on fire.

Cohen said he blamed himself for a silly taunt that he called really unbecoming of Congress. Its that sort of behavior that Im responsible for.

Later he accused Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) of intentionally twisting his words. Shame on you, Mr. Jordan. And then he chastised Republicans for not focusing on the actions of Trump.

I just find it interesting, sir, that between yourself and your colleagues that not one question so far since Im here has been asked about President Trump, he said. Thats actually why I thought I was coming today, not to confess the mistakes that Ive made.

1 / 12 Michael Cohen, President Donald Trumps former personal lawyer, is sworn in to testify on Capitol Hill in Washington. (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press) 2 / 12 Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) questions Michael Cohen as he testifies before the House Oversight Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. (Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images) 3 / 12 House Oversight and Reform Committee Chairman Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) makes closing remarks after testimony from Michael Cohen. (Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images) 4 / 12 Michael Cohen, former attorney to President Donald J. Trump, becomes emotional while listening to the closing remarks of House Oversight and Reform Committee Chairman Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) (Michael Reynolds / EPA / Shutterstock) 5 / 12 At one point, Republican critics hung a banner in the hearing room that read, Liar, liar, pants on fire. (Pablo Martinez Monsivais / Associated Press) 6 / 12 Michael Cohen speaks before the House Oversight and Reform Committee on Capitol Hill. (Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images) 7 / 12 Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, (D-N.Y.) questions Michael Cohen as he testifies before the House Oversight and Reform Committee. (Alex Brandon / Associated Press) 8 / 12 An image of a check signed by President Trump, that was allegedly used for hush money, is displayed on a screen as Michael Cohen makes his opening statement before the House Oversight Committee. (JIM LO SCALZO/EPA-EFE/REX / JIM LO SCALZO/EPA-EFE/REX) 9 / 12 A quote about Michael Cohen, attributed to the U.S. Attorneys Office, is put on display during testimony before the House Oversight Committee on Capitol Hill February 27, 2019 in Washington, DC. (Alex Wong / Getty Images) 10 / 12 Rep. Mark Meadows (R-NC) questions Michael Cohen as he testifies before the House Oversight Committee on Capitol Hill. (Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images) 11 / 12 Michael Cohen listens to questions before the House Oversight and Reform Committee on Capitol Hill. (Jim Lo Scalzo/ EPA / Shutterstock) 12 / 12 Michael Cohen arrives to testify before the House Oversight and Reform Committee on Capitol Hill. (Alex Brandon / Associated Press)

Republicans responded with outrage that the committees new Democratic leaders would provide a forum to a witness who just months ago admitted he lied to Congress.

For Republicans, the hearing served as their first opportunity to show how aggressively they would defend the president from what is likely to be a wave attacks from Democrats in the House. They did not hold back.

Cohen is a guy who is going to prison in two months for lying to Congress, said Jordan. This might be the first time someone convicted of lying to Congress has appeared again so quickly in front of Congress. Certainly its the first time a convicted perjurer has been brought back to be a star witness in a hearing.

Republicans, newly disposed to the minority and seemingly unprepared for Cohens feistiness, landed few blows that will last beyond the days news cycle.

Rep. Mark Meadows (R-N.C.) tried to accuse Cohen of lying on a form to the committee in which Cohen said he didnt have any contracts with foreign entities in the last two years. But the form only asked about contracts with foreign governments.

Cohen may have added to his credibility by debunking some of the more colorful allegations against Trump, such as unfounded domestic violence rumors or speculation he had a love child. Cohen also said he had not seen proof of collusion between Trump and Russia or other foreign governments.

If he was just gung-ho to get the president, he would have said, Sure, he colluded, said Rep. Stephen F. Lynch (D-Mass.), a member of the committee. He was very measured in his remarks and I think that helped his credibility.

Rep. Justin Amash (R-Mich.) said Cohens testimony, including copies of checks he provided to the panel purporting to be Trumps payoff to hide an extramarital affair, would need to be verified before they could be deemed credible.

That needs to be assessed but, you know, a lot of it was partisan theater, he said. He presented some documentation. There are signatures on there. There are people you could ask to corroborate things.

Its unclear whether any voters minds were changed by the hearing. But that may not matter.

Republicans and Democrats questions were seemingly from different planets, said Republican strategist Doug Heye, which means credibility is in the eye of the beholder.

If youre a Trump supporter, nothing that happened is going to change your mind. If you oppose Trump, nothing that happened is going to change your mind, he said. And most minds were made up well before this hearing.

Times staff writer Sarah D. Wire contributed to this report.

The latest from Washington 

More stories from Jennifer Haberkorn 
It may have been over a year since the infamous Oscars slap where Will Smith slapped Chris Rock on stage, but Sean Penn is now talking about it again.

According to People Magazine, the 63-year-old Oscar-winning actor called out Will Smith over his actions during last year's Oscars during a recent interview. In particular, he did not like the reception the "Men in Black" star received after receiving his own Oscar, which took place after he slapped Chris Rock.

"I don't know Will Smith. I met him once. He seemed very nice when I met him. He was so f---ing good in King Richard," said Sean Penn in his expletive-laden interview. "So why the f--- did you just spit on yourself and everybody else with this stupid f---ing thing? Why did I go to f---ing jail for what you just did? And you're still sitting there? Why are you guys standing and applauding his worst moment as a person?"

This was a reference to the time he found himself in jail after punching and spitting on an extra while filming the movie, "Colors." He was arrested, sentenced to spend 60 days inside a county jail, and then served 33 days of that sentence.

Will Smith has since been banned by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for 10 years, with Smith apologizing publicly and resigning from the organization.

As for Chris Rock, he laid everything he wanted to say during a Netflix comedy special, though he refused to press charges against the man who slapped him, even though police offered to help.

READ MORE: Did Kevin Hart Really Give Chris Rock a Goat Named Will Smith?

Sean Penn Praises Ukrainian President Volodymir Zelenskyy

In that interview, Penn mostly talked about Ukraine and meeting Ukrainian President Volodymir Zelenskyy for a documentary on the Russian invasion of the country.

There, he revealed why he gave his Oscars statue to the comedian-turned-war president. "I thought, well, f---, you know? I'll give them to Ukraine. They can be melted down to bullets they can shoot at the Russians," he said.

"The Oscars producer thought, 'Oh, he's not light-hearted enough.' Well, guess what you got instead? Will Smith!" said Penn during his interview with Variety. "This f---ing b---s--- wouldn't have happened with Zelenskyy. Will Smith would never have left that chair to be part of stupid violence. It never would have happened."

What Has Happened Since Will Smith Slapped Chris Rock at the Oscars Last Year?

A lot has happened since "the slap heard around the world." As USA Today pointed out, Will Smith did not just apologize once, but twice already while his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, who was the subject of Chris Rock's joke that led to the slap, opened up regarding her struggle with alopecia, which is an "autoimmune skin disease that can cause hair loss on the scalp, face or other areas of the body."

As for Chris Rock, he infamously joked in his Netflix special, "People are like, 'Did it hurt?' It still hurts! I got summertime ringing in my ears!" He stood defiant and added, "But I'm not a victim, baby. You will never see me on Oprah, Gayle, crying."

READ NEXT: Will Smith's Real Status with Chris Rock After Oscars Slap [RUMOR]

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Watch the uncensored moment Will Smith smacks Chris Rock on stage at the Oscars, drops F-bomb - Guardian News
A federal judge has issued a temporary halt to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's 30-day New Mexico gun ban in the Albuquerque area, according to POLITICO.

The order, issued in response to recent shootings, faced criticism from Republicans and Democrats, who raised concerns about its impact on gun rights and questioned its constitutionality.

Local law enforcement officials had indicated they would not enforce the order, and the state's Democratic attorney general, Raul Torrez, had expressed his inability to legally defend it while questioning its effectiveness.

The governor had based the ban on a public health emergency declaration related to gun violence.

During the hearing, US District Judge David H. Urias, appointed by President Joe Biden, suggested that multiple Supreme Court precedents on the Second Amendment indicated that the governor's order could harm citizens' exercise of their gun rights.

As a result, he issued a temporary stay of the ban, emphasizing that this action did not rule on its merits.

The ruling temporarily lifts the Albuquerque gun ban while the legal proceedings continue.

READ NEXT: New Mexico Teen Fires More Than 100 Rounds, Kills 3 Elderly Women

Restraining Order to Block New Mexico Gun Ban Takes Effect Until October 3

During a motion hearing in Albuquerque, a judge granted a temporary restraining order blocking the enforcement of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's gun ban until October 3, per ABC News.

The ruling was in response to concerns that the order conflicted with the Second Amendment, and it was welcomed by Senate Republican leader Greg Baca, who criticized the governor's actions.

Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen had already stated that his office would not enforce the ban, and two Republican state representatives, John Block and Stefani Lord, called for the governor to face impeachment over the orders.

The ruling reflects the ongoing debate over state gun rights and public safety measures.

New Mexico Gun Ban Faces Barrage of Legal Challenges

The governor's gun ban order in New Mexico has sparked numerous legal challenges, with advocates for gun rights filing lawsuits in the US District Court in Albuquerque, claiming civil rights violations under the US Constitution's Second Amendment, AP reports.

In addition to legal challenges, some Republicans in the legislative majority have called for impeachment proceedings against Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham over the order.

Despite protests and legal action, Governor Lujan Grisham has remained defiant, pushing the boundaries of her executive authority.

The order, which suspended open and concealed carry of firearms in Bernalillo County, where Albuquerque is located, has drawn opposition from various groups, including mothers and military veterans.

Many have expressed concerns about their ability to protect themselves in a city that has experienced incidents of violence.

New Mexico is an open carry state, so the governor's order impacted anyone in Bernalillo County who could legally own a gun, with some exceptions.

The New Mexico gun ban led to debates over public safety, individual rights, and the role of executive orders in addressing gun violence.

READ MORE: Joe Biden Impeachment

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: New Mexico governor orders temporary ban on carrying guns in public - From Good Morning America
North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley informed three counties that he cannot investigate the investors of a planned regional carbon dioxide pipeline that has been the subject of extensive debate within the state.

The 2,000-mile pipeline system, proposed by Summit Carbon Solutions, would move 12 million metric tons of climate-warming CO2 emissions from dozens of ethanol plants in five states to a site in western North Dakota for permanent storage underground. However, lawmakers and officials in Burleigh, Emmons and Richland counties have raised concerns about the investors behind the project  namely, that some funding is coming from foreign countries, including China. Representatives for the counties did not immediately respond to Tribune requests for comment.

North Dakota passed two laws in this years legislative session  Senate Bill 2371 and House Bill 1135  that seek to restrict foreign influence in the state. Those laws, which took effect on Aug. 1, were the basis on which the counties requested a review of the pipelines investors.

Senate Bill 2371 prohibits foreign adversaries of the United States and business entities with principal executive offices located in those adversarial countries from owning and developing property in North Dakota.

House Bill 1135, meanwhile, prohibits people who are not U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents or Canadian citizens from directly or indirectly acquiring agricultural land in North Dakota. The bill also states that limited liability companies cant obtain any interest in any title to agricultural land unless the ultimate beneficial interest of the entity is held directly or indirectly by U.S. citizens or green card holders.

Summit -- a limited liability company registered in the United States -- provided North Dakotas three-member Public Service Commission a short list of five investors, which included TPG Rise Climate and SK Group, as part of its application process for the pipeline.

TPG Rise Climate is the dedicated climate investing strategy of Fort Worth-based TPG Capitals global impact investing platform. One of its backers is The Silk Road, an investment fund backed by the Chinese government. SK Group, on the other hand, is a South Korean company.

The Legislature included an exception to its new laws for companies that were operating lawfully in the United States on Aug. 1. As a result, Wrigley indicated his office will not review Summits investors, as it falls under that exception.

Summit did not immediately respond to a Tribune request for comment, but spokesperson Jesse Harris has previously called concerns about the company's investors "unfounded accusations."

A group of 31 lawmakers, including one Democrat, first raised investment concerns when they sent a letter to Wrigley in May requesting an investigation. Wrigley informed the lawmakers in June that he could not pursue an investigation at that time, as Senate Bill 2371 and House Bill 1135 had not taken effect, and the request did not come from a city council or commission, county commission, or a title agent. At the time, he did not rule out the potential for a future investigation.

The decision on the counties request also comes as some county governments, including Burleigh and Emmons, have passed ordinances that would regulate the pipeline within their borders. Its just one of the obstacles Summit has faced as it navigates approval processes in jurisdictions in multiple states.

In North Dakota, the pipelines proposed 320-mile route was rejected by the Public Service Commission on Aug. 4. Summit has asked the Commission to reconsider, but Burleigh and Emmons counties have filed challenges to Summit's petition for reconsideration alongside other intervenors. South Dakota also rejected Summit's application for the proposed pipeline on Monday.
Convicted Brazilian murderer Danelo Cavalcante has captured the imagination of many in the US and Brazil after his daring prison escape in Pennsylvania. Now, however, he is back in custody after a 2-week manhunt that had local residents, including the family of his victim, running scared.

The 34-year-old Brazil man was arrested in a wooded area in South Coventry Township in Pennsylvania. An elite search team was deployed to search for the convicted murderer, comprising of mounted patrols, search dogs, and aircraft. It was conducted while a thunderstorm was happening as well.

The BBC reported that over 500 police officers were part of the manhunt efforts since he made his daring escape from the Chester County Prison last August 31. He managed to elude them all, including dogs and aircraft, until now.

Calvalcante killed his ex-girlfriend, Deborah Brandao, stabbing her multiple times in front of her young children. Her family have been under 24-hour police protection since his escape and were afraid for their lives.

Escaped Brazilian Murderer Danelo Cavalcante Continued To Resist Even After Capture

To many living in the area where he escaped, there had been a sense of fear, especially after Cavalcante stole a .22 caliber rifle from a home he tried hiding in. Now, however, their fears are gone as the escaped Brazilian finally made his biggest mistake and tripped a burglar alarm and alerted police to his location.

Soon, police began swarming the area with dogs and aircraft, though the bad weather did force the aircraft to pull out of the search. Before this, however, a plane with a thermal imaging camera west of Pennsylvania Route 100 did capture a heat signal that police think belongs to the fugitive.

READ MORE: Brazil: Fierce Storm Causes Flooding, 22 Dead and Hundreds Displaced

Soon enough, police surrounded the area where he had been hiding. "They had the element of surprise," said Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens at a news conference following Cavalcante's capture. "Cavalcante did not realize he was surrounded until that had occurred."

After discovering that he had been surrounded, Cavalcante still tried to escape and crawled through thick underbrush with the stolen rifle. However, a search dog was released and "subdued him" soon after. The Brazilian suffered a "minor" dog bite and was "forcibly" taken into custody. However, Bivens admitted that he continued to resist.

It was soon revealed that the dog bit the escaped convict in the crotch area, with Deputy US Marshal Robert Clark commenting about where he was bitten, saying that Cavalcante might "probably be in excruciating pain" as the bite area included his "thing."

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro Comments on Danelo Cavalcante Capture

The dramatic manhunt has been talked about in the US and Brazil, but none more so than in Pennsylvania. Even Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was talking about the daring escape and the subsequent manhunt and capture.

He stated that the "extraordinary work" of law enforcement and "a tremendous assist from members of the public" were the reasons why the convict got captured. He also confirmed that the escapee was "apprehended with no shots fired."

"He was desperate, and it was just a matter of time," Gov. Shapiro said at the news conference.

Cavalcante is also wanted in his native Brazil over a 2017 murder. Police also noted that this may be the reason why he killed his ex-girlfriend.

READ MORE: Brazil: Jair Bolsonaro Tried To Hack the 2022 Election, Says Hacker

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Escaped murderer Danelo Cavalcante captured following intense manhunt - ABC News
The Supreme Court of Brazil has started the first trial for the defendants during the January 8 riots in Brasilia, where Jair Bolsonaro supporters attempted a coup that mirrored the January 6 Capitol insurrection in the US.

During the January 8 riots, supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro stormed several government buildings, including Brazil's Congress and the Supreme Court, in an effort to kick the newly-elected Lula out of office and reinstall Bolsonaro.

The Bolsonaro supporters expected police to side with them as they truly believed that the right-wing "Trump of the Tropics" was the rightful winner. Instead, police and military personnel arrested hundreds of them and raided their campsite.

According to The Brazilian Report, the first four defendants tried are facing several charges, including armed conspiracy, violent disruption of the rule of law, coup d'etat, and damage to public property. Several important antiques and artifacts, many of them priceless and bore significant importance to Brazil's history, were damaged and vandalized by the pro-Bolsonaro rioters.

The four initial defendants are Moacir Jose dos Santos, Matheus Lima de Carvalho Lazaro, Thiago De Assis Mathar, and Aecio Lucio Costa Pereira. Lazaro's defense argued that he should not be tried by the Supreme Court while dos Santos's attorney argued that she only entered the presidential palace to escape the tear gas being thrown at them.

So far, 1,390 people have been charged for the January 8 riots and the Brazilian Supreme Court has already accepted charges for 1,345 of them.

Brazil January 8 Riot Defendants Recorded Themselves Calling For a Coup

Pereira, 51, was the first rioter to be tried for January 8, though he denied any wrongdoing and claimed that he was part of a "peaceful demonstration of unarmed people."

READ NEXT: Danelo Cavalcante, Escaped Brazilian Murderer, Finally Arrested After 2-Week Manhunt

However, Pereira was caught by cameras in the Senate while calling for a military coup. He also recorded a video of himself while praising others who had also broken into the Congressional building. Justice Alexandre de Moraes found him guilty of five crimes and ruled that he should be sentenced to 17 years in prison.

Meanwhile, Justice Kassio Nunes Marques ruled that he should only be jailed for two crimes and serve two and a half years in prison. His trial was adjourned until Thursday as the justices deliberated his fate, according to the Associated Press.

As for Lazaro, he made a live broadcast of the riot as well. He was also arrested on that same day, and his livestream showed that he expected the army to join their cause and do a "military intervention."

Jair Bolsonaro Denies Any Involvement in the January 8 Riots

When the January 8 riots were happening over in Brasilia, Jair Bolsonaro was in the United States getting medical treatment. Because of this, he washed his hands of any involvement in the plot, according to Al Jazeera News.

Back in April, the former president who was called the "Trump of the Tropics" testified before police and denied he had anything to do with it. However, police still accused him of being involved in the planning effort.

READ MORE: Brazil: Jair Bolsonaro Tried To Hack the 2022 Election, Says Hacker

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Brazil riots vs. January 6th: What are the similarities & differences? | DW News
Eugene "Buzzy" Peltola Jr., the husband of Democratic Rep. Mary Peltola, has tragically died in a plane crash in Alaska, as confirmed by a statement from the congresswoman's office.

The statement described Eugene as a person who excelled in many aspects of life, possessed a wonderful sense of humor, and was known for his culinary skills, per CNN.

Family was of utmost importance to him, and he was deeply devoted to his parents, children, siblings, extended family, and friends, with a special affection for Mary.

The statement also requested privacy for the grieving Peltola family and mentioned that the congresswoman would return to Alaska during this difficult time.

READ NEXT: Alaska Woman Murders Best Friend

Alaska Plane Crash

The tragic plane crash involving Eugene "Buzzy" Peltola Jr. occurred in a remote area about 64 miles northeast of the village of St. Mary's in Alaska.

The plane involved in the crash was identified as a single-engine Piper PA-18 Super Cub, and it went down in mountainous terrain, according to the Anchorage Daily News.

Peltola had been flying a hunter and equipment to a remote location before the crash, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

The crash occurred shortly after Peltola's departure following the drop-off of the hunter.

He was the only person on board the plane, and despite receiving medical care from two hunters at the scene, Peltola passed away before a rescue team could arrive.

An emergency locator transmitter registered to Peltola was activated, leading to a response from the Alaska Air National Guard rescue team.

The NTSB is investigating the crash and will be interviewing witnesses to gather more information.

Peltola's body has been transported to the State Medical Examiner's Office in Anchorage for an autopsy. The two uninjured hunters at the crash site were flown to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.

Alaska Rep. Mary Peltola and Eugene "Buzzy" Peltola Jr.

Eugene "Buzzy" Peltola Jr. was the former Bureau of Indian Affairs for Alaska regional director, and a past member of the US Fish and Wildlife Service in the state, Yahoo! News reported.

Last year, Peltola achieved a significant milestone by winning a special election for Alaska's at-large congressional seat, making her the first Alaska Native to secure a seat in Congress and the first Democrat to represent the district in nearly half a century.

She later went on to secure victory in the November general election.

Senator Lisa Murkowski, a Republican, expressed her heartfelt condolences on Wednesday upon hearing the news of Eugene "Buzzy" Peltola Jr.'s passing.

She conveyed her shock and deep sadness, emphasizing that Buzzy was a person whose warmth, generosity, and charm left an indelible impression on those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Murkowski noted that many Alaskans considered him a friend, and his family deeply affectionately held him.

President Joe Biden also issued a statement on Wednesday, mentioning that he had spoken with Representative Peltola and offered his condolences.

In his words, "Buzzy was a devoted public servant, and the tributes pouring in from all corners of the state underscore his status as a friend to all. However, it is crucial to remember that he was a beloved husband and father, and his family is now experiencing profound grief."

Just days before his passing, Alaska Rep. Mary Peltola and her daughter had joined President Biden in Anchorage to commemorate the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

President Biden reflected on the recent events, "On Monday, Mary flew back with me to Washington on Air Force One, with the whole world ahead of her. Today, I spoke with her with that world shattered in shock and sadness."

READ MORE: New Mexico Gun Ban

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Rep. Mary Peltola's husband dies in Alaska plane crash - From New York Post
Bethlehem and the Bethlehem Housing Authority are a half a million dollars closer to revitalizing one of its public housing villages.

Federal officials on Wednesday announced the award of a $500,000 neighborhood revitalization grant for Stefko-Pembroke Neighborhood, including the authoritys Pembroke Village. The grant is an initial step toward being awarded Choice Neighborhoods implementation funding in the tens of millions of dollars from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The HUD planning grant aims to promote investment to create a neighborhood that is vibrant, safe and welcoming, according to a statement from U.S. Sens. Bob Casey and John Fetterman, both D-Pa., and U.S. Rep. Susan Wild, a Democrat representing the Lehigh Valley in Pennsylvanias 7th Congressional District.

Bethlehem City Council in April approved pursuing the planning grant by hiring COLLABO Planning + Design to help prepare the application.

COLLABO is also working with Easton on its Choice Neighborhoods program and is a consultant on Bethlehems ongoing Comprehensive Housing Strategy planning.

Choice Neighborhoods is HUDs successor program to HOPE VI. Both Easton and Allentown won HOPE VI grants around the same time that were used, respectively, to replace Delaware Terrace with Neston Heights and reconstruct Hanover Acres and Riverview Terrace as Overlook Park.

HUD offered up $10 million nationwide for this latest round of two-year Choice Neighborhoods planning grants. Choice Neighborhoods is focused on three core goals:

Housing: Replace severely distressed public and HUD-assisted housing with high-quality mixed-income housing that is well-managed and responsive to the needs of the surrounding neighborhood.

People: Improve outcomes of households living in the target housing related to income and employment, health and education.

Neighborhood: Create the conditions necessary for public and private reinvestment in distressed neighborhoods to offer the kinds of amenities and assets, including safety, good schools and commercial activity, that are important to families choices about their community.

Bethlehem is looking to Choice Neighborhoods to replace each Pembroke Village housing unit and add additional homes for a new mixed-income development, Bethlehem officials said in April.

Pembroke was built in 1941 and has 196 apartments for families and people with disabilities, according to the Bethlehem Housing Authority. It was last remodeled in 1995.

Easton is applying for a Choice Neighborhoods implementation grant to demolish 160 public housing units at Bushkill House, on Elm Street, and on or near North Union Street and build new homes. The city and Easton Housing Authority are proposing to purchase The Easton Home at 1022 Northampton St. for $2.6 million to create 60 to 80 homes there that could be used to relocate, at least temporarily, some of the tenants displaced by the public housing overhaul.

The federal officials who announced Bethlehems planning grant offered the following remarks in a news release:

Too many Pennsylvanians struggle to find safe, affordable housing in their communities, Casey stated. Thanks to this federal funding, Bethlehem can accelerate plans to reimagine the existing housing units in Pembroke Village, breathing new life into the affordable housing in the city and creating the potential to attract essential businesses like grocery stores and child care centers.

Housing is a human right, and its our responsibility to make sure every community has the resources to provide people with safe and affordable housing, Fetterman stated. This funding from HUD will help our most vulnerable communities in Bethlehem access that basic right.

We need more safe and affordable housing in the Lehigh Valley, stated Wild. Im thrilled that Bethlehem is receiving this funding to revitalize already existing affordable housing in Pembroke Village, and Ill continue working to bring home federal investments to build safe, welcoming neighborhoods for everyone across our community.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com.

Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
A 25-year-old consumed more than two times the legal limit of alcohol before he caused a fatal drunken driving crash in Allentown, authorities say.

The Lehigh County District Attorneys office and Allentown police on Thursday announced the charges against Chase Ryan Strahler, of the 900 block of Fernwood Street in Emmaus. Strahler on Thursday morning surrendered to authorities.

Attorney Gail Marr of Bensalem represents Strahler. She couldnt immediately be reached for comment.

John Sassaman, 63, of Salisbury Township, died about three hours after the crash around 1 a.m. Oct. 2, 2022, police said.

Police said Sassaman was headed south in the 400 block of South 24th Street when he struck a parked car. Strahler then struck the same parked car and then struck Sassamans Hyundai, according to police. Officers found Sassaman lying in the road, police said.

Sassaman died in Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest in Salisbury Township, according to Lehigh County Coroner Daniel Buglio. The cause of death was multiple blunt force injuries. The death was ruled accidental.

Strahler smelled of alcohol and his speech was slurred after the accident, city police said. Strahlers blood-alcohol content was 0.20, police said. Penalties in Pennsylvania begin at 0.08.

A visibility study determined Strahler was driving at 41 mph to 44 mph at the time of the crash, according to authorities. The speed limit on that road is 35 mph, police said. A normal, coherent and sober driver would have had enough time to stop and avoid the collision, according to a news release from Lehigh County District Attorney James Martin.

An accident reconstruction team determined Strahler caused Sassamans death, not Sassamans initial crash with his Hyundai. authorities say. At the time of his death, Sassamans blood alcohol content was 0.09, according to authorities.

Aside from felony vehicular homicide, Strahler is charged with felony homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence, reckless endangerment and two counts of driving under the influence.

Strahler was arraigned Thursday morning before District Judge Ronald S. Manescu, who set bail at $50,000 unsecured.

Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust.

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com.
Pennsylvania needs to increase its investment in public schools by $6.2 billion to help students meet graduation rate goals and proficiency on state exams, according to a school finance expert.

Penn State assistant professor Matthew Kelly told a panel of policymakers the figure was his conservative estimate of what was needed to address chronic underfunding that led to a landmark court ruling earlier this year.
Update: Upper Saucon police said Spring Valley Road was opened to traffic by 8:30 a.m. Thursday.

A serious accident has shut down an intersection near a popular recreation trail in Upper Saucon Township, police said.

Township police were on scene around 7:47 a.m. on Thursday in the 1800 block of Spring Valley Road  between Washington Lane and Augusta Drive. A Lehigh County 911 Dispatch supervisor told lehighvalleylive.com the roadway at Washington Lane and Augusta Drive was closed Thursday morning.

The intersection is near the Saucon Rail Trail, a converted railroad track of the SEPTA Bethlehem Line, running through Upper Saucon and Lower Saucon townships. The dispatch supervisor said the accident is right at the crosswalk but he was unaware if it was impacting people from accessing the trail.

Township police are asking motorists to seek an alternative route around the crash scene. Officers are investigating the accident. Upper Saucon police did not immediately return a request seeking more information about what led to the accident.

Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust.

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com.
Strong testimonials and ringing endorsements were heard from the large attendance at the launch of Francie Gorman's IFA Presidential campaign last Friday night in Abbeyleix.

Campaign manager Pat Hennessy was MC on the night and he acknowledged the absence of the late Padraig Walshe whose footsteps Francie Gorman hopes to follow in.

Mr Hennessy noted the presence of Ella Walshe and members of the Walshe family at the launch.

Current Laois IFA County Chairman John Fitzpatrick spoke of Francie Gorman's hard work ethic. He is not afraid of challenges. He has all the credentials to be President.

James Mulhall, Kilkenny County Chairman said that Francie had our backs as South Leinster Chairman. He has proven his capability and is a very decisive man. He has a passion for farming and farm politics. He is the right man at the right time for the huge challenges that are out there, said Mr Mulhall.

Anne Marie McHugh of the National Ploughing Association and Secretary of the World Ploughing said that he was the person you wanted in your corner. He knows his subject and and is always approachable, she added.

Jim Holland, the President of Laois IFA said he was a decent, honest and sensible person fellow.

Henry Burns noted Francie Gorman's long term commitment to farming and the IFA.

A neighbour of Francies Helen Gee of G's Gourmet Jams said he was vocal, determined and strong.

Former IFA President John Bryan said that the IFA needs to be revitalised.
Local dairy producers are left wondering what their futures hold after Prairie Farms Dairy Inc. announced the Bismarck milk production facility will cease operations and become solely a distribution facility.

The announcement earlier this month from the Edwardsville, Illinois-based company means an unknown number of production employees immediately lost their jobs, according to the company.

"Our difficult decision to transfer production to other Prairie Farms plants was made only after a long and careful review of options," Darin Copeland, Prairie Farms spokesman, said in a statement. "It was not a reflection of the work of the employees."

Some staff, including truck drivers, distribution workers, sales and administrative staff, will continue to operate the Bismarck distribution facility, Copeland said, and vendors of Prairie Farms products should see no disruption in deliveries. Attempts by the Tribune to reach Copeland by phone and email were unsuccessful.

The news took the people who supplied the plant with milk by surprise, especially producers like Jennifer and Andrew Holle, owners of Northern Lights Dairy near St. Anthony. The business trucked 100% of its milk to Prairie Farms in Bismarck.

"We are disappointed," Jennifer Holle said.

The owners of the family business were particularly disappointed because they relied on previous assurances the Bismarck production facility was viable when deciding to expand the herd by 300 head, Holle said. Northern Lights Dairy is now milking more than 900 cows.

North Dakota Commissioner of Agriculture Doug Goehring is disappointed too. In a statement Tuesday, Goehring said Prairie Farms' decision hurts the state's dairy producers.

This will directly affect the dairies who currently have their milk trucked to Prairie Farms, Goehring said. With no other processors nearby, those dairies will likely pay for shipping longer distances that will be deducted from their milk checks. This will have a dramatic impact on their bottom line.

The Holles are part of the North Dakota Milk Producers Association. That group said in a statement it is "banding together to support those that lost their milk market and are in jeopardy of losing their livelihoods."

"It will take time to come to a solution, but we are confident a reasonable outcome will be reached," the organization said.

No matter what the solution is, Holle said, Prairie Farms' decision to stop operations in Bismarck means the Holles and other dairy producers will face longer hauls to deliver their product. Those options, according to Holle, are plants in Pollock, South Dakota, or Perham, Minnesota. The result is longer hauls, higher shipping costs and a lower price for the producers. Bismarck's plant, a Class 1 fluid milk plant, pays a higher price than the others, classified as cheese plants.

"Now have to sell to a cheese plant and not a fluid milk plant," Holle said. "Scary financial times ahead for our farm."

Bob Hintz, owner of Hintz Dairy near Flasher, echoed Holle's sentiment.

"We're totally beside ourselves," Hintz said.

Hintz said since the announcement, Prairie Farms management has said nothing to producers who had their milk hauled to Bismarck. Hintz Dairy, like Northern Lights, had all of its product hauled to Bismarck. Hintz also wonders how hauling elsewhere will affect the farm's financial picture.

Both are among a group of producers who plan to meet with representatives from Land O'Lakes in the coming days about possible solutions. According to Hintz, Land O'Lakes used to own the Bismarck plant. Hintz said it was sold several years ago to Dean Foods and later purchased by Prairie Farms.

"Several of us talked about buying it ourselves," Hintz said. "But we couldn't pull it off. There's a huge investment there."

Goehring said since taking over in Bismarck, Prairie Farms made a number of updates to the facility, which he called good investments. While the Prairie Farms decision was disappointing, Goehring said he could understand the economics behind it.

"It's kind of like the chicken and the egg. Without dairies, you can't have processing, and unfortunately in the last year and a half we've lost dairy production," Goehring told the Tribune. "Which is ironic because 40 years ago the two largest dairy producing counties were were Emmons and Morton, right here smack-dab in the middle of the state."

Now, Morton and Emmons counties are home to nine dairy farms, according to a December 2022 census released by the state Department of Agriculture. Statewide, the number of dairy farms has fallen to 37.
A warning has been issued to bank customers about a new scam in which fraudsters are attempting to gain remote access to computers and bank accounts.

Bank of Ireland is urging customers to be on their guard due to a new wave of fraud targeting banks in Europe, the UK, the US, Australia, and New Zealand which is now active in Ireland.

The fraudsters are mainly targeting business banking customers at this time, duping them into allowing remote access to their computers and bank accounts.

Reports of this type of scam to Bank of Irelands fraud line are increasing daily as the fraud gang target Irish customers.

During the scam, the customer gets a phone call from someone claiming to be from Bank of Ireland.

The caller asks the customer to log into their online banking as normal.

The caller (fraudster) then asks the customer to go to another new website address, saying that this is: for a live chat service or to verify the customers PC, but in reality it allows the fraudster remote access to the customers PC. The fraudster can now see the customers screen and access all of the customers files and programmes.

The caller will set up payments on the customers online banking and ask the customer to read out the one-time codes from their BOI app to approve the payments.

Bank of Ireland said if you get a call from someone who asks you to go to a website or to click on a link that they will send to you, just hang up.

They urge people to never allow a caller to take remote access of your PC.

If someone asks you for a one-time code from your online banking app, they are a fraudster, the bank advises. They urge people to never, ever share those codes with anyone, even if they say they are from Bank of Ireland.

Bank customers are advised to be very careful when logging on to your online banking website. The safest thing is to type in the website address yourself or to log in through the main Bank of Ireland website at bankofireland.com.

Commenting on the current wave of fraudulent messages, Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud, Bank of Ireland said: "We are urging customers, especially business customers, to be on their guard at this time. This new scam is of particular concern as fraudsters are convincing people to allow access to their PCs via a fake live chat, where they can access Business customers online banking, and other personal files and information. This is all designed with one thing in mind  to steal your money.

"Customers should take extra care right now when logging into their online banking to ensure it is a legitimate site. People are currently being directed to fake sites, receiving follow-up phone calls from fraudsters and then being convinced to allow remote access. This scam is multi-layered and the international nature of the scam shows that it has been highly effective for the fraudsters elsewhere".

For more advice and information on fraud, search Bank of Ireland Security Zone.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has reiterated that the Government has full confidence in Commissioner Drew Harris after the Garda Representative Association (GRA) overwhelmingly voted against his leadership on Wednesday.

His comments come after almost 99% of gardai who voted in the ballot organised by the GRA expressed no confidence in the forces most senior officer.

The unprecedented vote stemmed from discontent within the force, mostly around the commissioners plan to return to a pre-pandemic roster from November 6.

Speaking to reporters in Foynes, Co Limerick, Mr Varadkar said there were issues within An Garda Siochana to be addressed but added that the non-binding GRA ballot was not the way to solve industrial-relations disputes.

He said the gardai should engage with the Workplace Relations Commission on the matter.

I can understand why they want to keep the old roster, its very family friendly, involves working maybe 150 days a year, albeit very long days.

I also understand why the Garda Commissioner wants to go back to the old agreed roster because that meant the guards were around more often when we needed them. Thats in the interest of the public too.

But theres always room for compromise and this isnt the way you come to a compromise.

Announcing the result of the ballot on Wednesday, GRA general secretary Ronan Slevin claimed Minister for Justice Helen McEntee was refusing to engage with the association and had not held a meeting with the representative body since she came back to post in June following maternity leave  apart from a conversation at a passing out parade at Templemore College.

He said Simon Harris, who stood in as justice minister in Ms McEntees absence, had met GRA representatives in February and April.

Asked by reporters on Thursday if it was acceptable that Ms McEntee had not engaged with the GRA, Mr Varadkar said: I have to check on that. You know, all ministers meet with representative bodies all the time. Im sure she has met them, Ill double check on that.

Ms McEntee had defended her decision not to respond to a request for a meeting with the GRA by saying the personalised nature of the organisations confidence ballot put her in a position not able to meet with them.

Mr Varadkar was in Foynes to officially open a five million euro redevelopment of the worlds largest flying boat museum.

The Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum captures the story of how Foynes became one of the worlds great aviation hubs of the world between 1937 and 1945 when the waters of the Shannon Estuary launched Irelands first commercial transatlantic services.

The project received funding 1.75 million euro under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF).

An additional investment totalling 1.75 million euro was provided by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.

A further 1.5 million euro was provided by the museum, Limerick City and County Council and from sponsorship.
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 tank of crude oil at one of Canadian company Vermilion Energy's field sites in Saint-Mery, France, in August 2017. CHRISTOPHE ARCHAMBAULT / AFP

Above ground, there are simple green pipes. "Often, when some people see an oil well for the first time, they say: 'Ah? Is that all?' They probably imagined something spectacular, something spitting fire," said Xavier Lopez, head of oilfield operations at Vermilion France, as he drove toward the lake at Parentis-en-Born in the southwestern French department of Landes. Yes, among the pines in the Aquitaine basin, just as on the outskirts of Paris, "black gold" is still being extracted from the French subsoil. It's equivalent to around 0.9% of national oil consumption each year, at a rate of 12,000 barrels a day. Production has been reduced by a factor of five since the early 1980s, according to the Ministry of Energy Transition.

Canadian group Vermilion  France's leading producer  intends to exploit its 27 state-granted concessions to the very end. In the name of the fight against climate change, the Hulot law of December 2017 has set a deadline of January 1, 2040, for "putting an end to the exploration as well as the exploitation of hydrocarbons."

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes France's elusive promise: Cutting nuclear power to 50% of electricity production

With a goal of influencing the debate, the oil company spent between 500,000 and 600,000 on lobbying, according to a 2018 report published by environmental advocacy group Les Amis de la Terre ("Friends of the Earth"). The law has generated "anger, incomprehension," said Vermilion's general manager for France, Pantxika Etcheverry. "Whatever the trajectories and scenarios, we'll still need oil in 2040," said Etcheverry, holding up a map of French mining titles attached to her desk. "Better to continue producing it than importing it."

'Texas of Landes'

Taking all energies together, oil is the predominant energy source today, accounting for 42% of the country's end-use consumption in 2022, particularly in transport. By 2050, according to the national low-carbon strategy revised in 2020, it will be only residual.

In Parentis-en-Born, where the Canadian group set up its headquarters in France, a French flag flies next to the red maple leaf. Since 1997, Vermilion claims to have invested 1.2 billion in concessions, most of which were acquired from Esso. These mature fields can still be profitable, especially given the current price of a barrel of North Sea Brent  the benchmark in Europe  at around $90 a barrel (around 84). This is well above Vermilion's operating cost (extraction and transport), which the company estimates at an average of $50. In 2022, the French subsidiary generated a net income of 51 million, almost triple the previous year's figure, on sales of 300 million.

You have 60% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only.
View of Brazil's high court during the opening trials over the January 8 riots by former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro's supporters in Brasilia on September 13, 2023. SERGIO LIMA / AFP

Brazil's Supreme Court on Wednesday, September 13, opened its first trials over the January 8 riots by supporters of far-right ex-president Jair Bolsonaro, putting four accused in the dock in one of the buildings invaded that day. The court's 11 justices will deliver their decisions one by one in each case, with a majority needed to secure a conviction.

The lead judge on the case, Alexandre de Moraes, has already ruled to convict the first accused  a 51-year-old man named Aecio Pereira  recommending he be sentenced to 17 years in prison for his actions, which included invading the floor of the Senate in a T-shirt marked "Military Intervention." A second judge asked for a much lighter sentence of just 2.5 years, with the trial scheduled to resume on Thursday and nine justices still left to weigh in.

Moraes said the rioters, who also ransacked the presidential palace and Congress, carried out a "criminal invasion aimed at illegally seizing power via a military coup and violently overthrowing [the] democratically elected government" of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Inevitable comparisons with US Capitol invasion

The Brasilia riots deeply shook a nation still divided by veteran leftist Lula's narrow win over Bolsonaro in the October 2022 presidential race, and drew inevitable comparisons to the invasion of the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, by supporters of then-president Donald Trump, Bolsonaro's political role model.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Bolsonaro's conviction is a lesson in Brazilian democracy

Outraged over Bolsonaro's loss to Lula, thousands of his supporters overwhelmed security to storm the seat of power a week after Lula's inauguration, calling for a military intervention to oust the newly installed president, who was not in Brasilia at the time.

They ran riot inside the three buildings, smashing windows, throwing furniture into fountains, vandalizing artwork and turning the Senate's central dais into a slide. The four men on trial, aged between 24 and 52, are accused of crimes including armed criminal conspiracy, violent uprising against the rule of law and an attempted coup.

The Supreme Court plans to hear a total of 232 cases involving the most serious alleged crimes committed during the riots. The first four accused each face a total of up to 30 years in prison. They have denied the accusations against them, saying they believed the protests would be peaceful.

Supporters of Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro sit in front of a line of military police inside Planalto Palace after storming the official workplace of the president in Brasilia, on January 8, 2023. ERALDO PERES / AP

Cell phone video evidence

But prosecutors said the first accused had openly incited a coup. Prosecutor Carlos Frederico Santos said the evidence against Pereira included a cell phone video he recorded during the riots, in which he appeared at the front of the Senate chamber celebrating the invasion. "His support for the coup-mongering intent of the anti-democratic horde is irrefutable," Santos said.

Lawyers for Pereira, reportedly a former employee of the Sao Paulo municipal sanitation company, told the court their client was unarmed and committed no acts of violence. Defense attorney Sebastiao Coelho da Silva called the trial "politically motivated."

In addition to the 232 cases before the Supreme Court, prosecutors are investigating more than 1,000 others over the attacks, mostly on lesser charges that could be settled in plea bargains.

Investigators are also working to trace the financial backers behind the protests and establish whether police and army officers played a role. Seven Brasilia police commanders were arrested last month for dereliction of duty in connection with the riots.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Some Bolsonaro supporters point the finger after January 8 riots

Bolsonaro, who was in the United States at the time, faces investigation over accusations of inciting the riots. The 68-year-old ex-army captain, an open admirer of Brazil's 1964-1985 military regime, denies wrongdoing. "Some people are obsessed with trying to link me" to the events of January 8, he told newspaper Folha de Sao Paulo on Monday.

Bolsonaro is also under investigation over various allegations of corruption and abuse of office. In June, electoral authorities barred him from running for office for eight years over his unproven allegations that Brazil's electronic voting system was vulnerable to large-scale fraud.
Pope Francis meets French President Emmanuel Macron for a private audience at the Vatican, October 24, 2022. VATICAN MEDIA / VIA REUTERS

French President Emmanuel Macron will attend a Catholic mass celebrated by Pope Francis in Marseille next week, the Elysee presidential office said on Thursday, September 14.

The question of Macron's attendance at the September 23 service in the Mediterranean city's Velodrome stadium has been controversial in strictly secular France, where the government has in recent weeks been pushing to bar in schools the abaya garment worn by some Muslim women.

The mass will be a "popular event" and "festive", said a presidential official, asking not to be named. The separation between church and state in France "absolutely does not exclude the Republic from maintaining relations with all religions", said the official.

But hard-left former presidential candidate Jean-Luc Melenchon wrote on X, formerly Twitter, ahead of the Elysee's announcement: "The Pope is welcome in France... Macron is gatecrashing. Booing at the mass will be for (Macron), not the Pope," he added.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Macron on assisted dying: A personal journey sifting through doubt

Francis is set to arrive in Marseille on September 22, planning to give a speech outside the city's landmark Notre Dame de la Garde church in which he will hail migrants lost at sea trying to reach Europe.

As well as holding mass for thousands of people in the stadium the following day, he will close a week-long gathering of bishops discussing migration, poverty and climate change, and meet deprived Marseille residents.

Macron will meet the pope privately before Francis celebrates mass. The presidential official indicated Macron would not take communion during the mass.
A Mozilla Foundation report alleges that 25 major car manufacturers, including Nissan, are collecting and sharing deeply personal data, such as sexual activity and health information. The study found privacy and security flaws in car brands from the U.S., Germany, Japan, France, and South Korea.

According to Mozilla, they conducted tests on 25 major car manufacturers, and all of them did not meet privacy standards. The organization asserted that cars represent the most deficient product category they have evaluated in terms of privacy. The assessment scrutinized privacy and security shortcomings in car brands from five nations: the United States, Germany, Japan, France, and South Korea. Researchers reportedly dedicated 600 hours to review privacy policies, download apps, and communicate with brands, following their 'Privacy Not Included (PNI) buyer's guide.'

Jen Caltrider, PNI Program Director, Mozilla, says, "All new cars today are privacy nightmares on wheels that collect huge amounts of personal information."

According to the report, Nissan stands out as the most problematic. The Japanese automaker's privacy policy reportedly acknowledges the collection of various data, including details related to sexual activity, health diagnoses, and genetic information.

"They say they can share and sell consumers preferences, characteristics, psychological trends, predispositions, behavior, attitudes, intelligence, abilities, and aptitudes to data brokers, law enforcement, and other third parties," stated the Mozilla blog post.

Notably, Renault is reported as having fewer privacy issues. The Mozilla report adds Volkswagen gathers demographic data (such as age and gender) and driving behavior data (like seatbelt usage and braking patterns) for targeted marketing.

Moreover, the report also highlights that Toyota's privacy policies are criticized for being excessively complex, comprising a multitude of 12 documents. Whereas, Kia's privacy policy explicitly mentions the potential collection of information related to an individual's "sex life."

Additionally, Mercedes-Benz includes TikTok, an app with its own privacy concerns, in certain vehicle models. You can read more on the report from the official sources by clicking here. (https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/privacynotincluded/articles/its-official-cars-are-the-worst-product-category-we-have-ever-reviewed-for-privacy/)

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
Ive become numb to email, phone and text surveys or post-purchase questionnaires. From a service call or store receipt, and everything in between, companies and businesses are constantly asking patrons about their activity and assessing their expectations.

Thankfully, the majority of these are voluntary and I just hang up, disregard or click through. I figure if it was that important, Id have to answer.

So, when it comes to hunting and fishing surveys when they are law or mandatory, hunters should understand how important the information requested is.

In North Dakota and across the nation, the Harvest Information Program number is not voluntary. It is both important and mandatory.

Migratory bird HIP

The Migratory Bird Harvest Information Program is a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service program designed to measure the harvest of migratory birds for management purposes. All migratory game bird hunters must register annually in each state they hunt before hunting ducks, geese, swans, mergansers, coots, cranes, snipe, doves and woodcock.

You can register online. After answering a brief survey, you will receive a HIP registration number which must be recorded on your fishing, hunting and furbearer certificate.

If you purchase your hunting license at the departments Bismarck office, through the departments website, or over the phone with the toll-free number, you can easily get HIP-registered. If you participated in the spring snow goose conservation hunt you should have already been HIP registered.

While this is done through your North Dakota licensing it is a nationwide requirement.

Why its necessary

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service monitors migratory game bird harvest in the United States. The Branch of Monitoring and Data Management within the Migratory Bird Program uses HIP to select hunters for the Migratory Bird Hunter/Harvest Survey and the Parts Collection Survey. All hunters are asked to complete HIP, but a smaller sample of hunters are sent the Diary Survey and Parts Collection Survey. The smaller sample is based on HIP responses.

For more information on HIP see the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services HIP page.

The survey program has three steps:

Step 1  Harvest Information Program

All migratory bird hunters are required to fill out HIP when they register for their hunting license. Registration questions include name, address and hunting activity from the past season.

Step 2  Migratory Bird Hunter Survey

Some hunters are selected for the Diary Survey, a hunting diary form. This form asks for the date, county and number of birds taken for every hunt. There are five separate surveys for five species or species groups: 1) doves and band-tailed pigeons, 2) waterfowl (ducks, sea ducks, geese and brant), 3) American woodcock, 4) rails, gallinules, coots, snipe and 5) sandhill cranes. These surveys are important because they give harvest estimates for these species/species groups.

Step 3  Parts Collection Survey (Wing Survey)

To collect information about harvest by species, age and sex, there are Wing Surveys.

Some successful hunters are selected from the Diary Survey and asked if they are willing to send parts from the birds that they harvested. Hunters send a wing from each bird they shoot (or tail feather from each goose).

There are three independent wing surveys: 1) waterfowl, 2) mourning dove and 3) woodcock, rail and band-tailed pigeon.

Biologists at wingbees examine wings to determine the birds species, age and sex. Woodcock wings can help determine their age and sex ratios. Mourning dove and band-tailed pigeon wings can help determine their age ratios.

The Diary and Wing Surveys help estimate how many ducks of different species, ages and sex were harvested during a hunting season. The surveys also allow estimates of species and age-specific harvest for geese. Age ratios are used to calculate reproduction rates. Reproduction plays an important role in keeping migratory bird populations stable.

Hunter information is critical to our understanding of migratory bird populations. Annual participation in HIP and the Diary and Wing surveys contributes to wildlife conservation and management.
Black White Orange, a licensing and brand solutions agency in India, has been appointed as the licensing partner by Viacom18 Studios for its new action film Fighter starring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone.

The range, including apparel and accessories to collectibles and memorabilia, will also be available on the D2C brand www.a47.in.

Fighter is a highly anticipated film that pushes boundaries as Indias first aerial action franchise, and we are excited to bring its captivating world to life beyond the screen. Viacom18 Studios is happy to partner with Black White Orange as the exclusive licensing partner for Fighters merchandise line," Ajit Andhare, chief operating officer, Viacom18 Studios, said in a statement.

Bhavik Vora, founder and CEO, Black White Orange Brands Pvt. Ltd said the company will create a high-quality and aspirational merchandise program that will allow fans to connect with the film on a deeper level. We are also excited to launch the Fighter range on our own D2C platform, www.a47.in, a brand that celebrates the rich pop culture of India, and it will be great to see the Fighter collection alongside our official merch for ISRO and units of the Indian Armed forces. With our expertise and commitment, we aim to deliver an exceptional experience for fans and further elevate the captivating world of Fighter," Vora said in a statement.

To be sure, the licensing and merchandise market in India remains niche with the likes of Walt Disney leading the space thanks to IPs such as Marvels (Iron Man, Captain America and Avengers), Lucas Films (Star Wars), Pixar (Cars) and Disney (The Jungle Book). Further, there is a huge illegal market running parallel to licensed brands.

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
New Delhi: Packaged foods company General Mills India on Thursday said it is set to invest 100 crore to set up its second manufacturing facility for Pillsbury baking mixes in India.

On Thursday, the company performed a groundbreaking ceremony for the new plant which will serve as the epicentre for manufacturing Pillsbury baking mixes for the Indian market and is expected to be operational by August 2024.

With the addition of this new facility, General Mills India will double its manufacturing footprint, enabling the company to meet the increasing demand for its Pillsbury bakery solutions in India. The Pillsbury brand holds a strong presence in the baking mixes segment and is well positioned to supply baking products to the growing bakery and food service industry in India," it said in a statement on Thursday .

Pillsbury introduced its baking mixes in India in 1999. Meanwhile, the pandemic, in general, led to an uptick in demand for packaged foods, as well as baking products.

The bakery industry in India is witnessing remarkable growth. Beyond birthdays, cake cutting has become integral to various occasions like anniversaries, success parties and festive gatherings," said Anand Khurana, country director for General Mills India.

The new facility will mark Pillsburys commitment to serving more bakers in India and supporting their business growth, he said.

India is pivotal to General Mills global growth strategy, the company said. India is among General Mills priority markets worldwide. In recent years, our business in India has consistently accelerated growth and the new manufacturing plant reinforces our dedication to growing in India by delighting more consumers and catering to evolving consumer needs," said Balki Radhakrishnan, vice president and managing director, Global Emerging Markets at General Mills.

General Mills sells a variety of foods products under brands such as Cheerios, Nature Valley, Blue Buffalo, Haagen-Dazs, Pillsbury, Betty Crocker, Yoplait, Annies, Wanchai Ferry, Yoki and more. The company is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, US. In 2023, General Mills generated net sales of $20.1 billion.

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
Infosys will announce its Q2FY24 financial result and interim dividend during its board of directors meeting on 12 October. Prior to the announcement of financial result, the tech giant will close the trading window for one month on September 16.

The board of directors meeting of Infosys will be held on October 11 and October 12. The investor call will be held by the company on October 12 prior to the announcement of the result.

"This is to inform you that a meeting of the Board of Directors of the Company will be held on Wednesday and Thursday, October 11 and 12, 2023. The financial results and proposal for interim dividend, if any, will be presented to the Board of Directors on October 12, 2023 for their approval," the company said in its stock filing on Thursday.

Infosys shares closed 0.65% higher at 1506.75 per share on BSE on Thursday.

During the board meeting, Infosys will approve and take on record the audited consolidated financial results of the Company and its subsidiaries as per Indian Accounting Standards (INDAS) for the quarter and half year ending September 30, 2023." It will also release its audited standalone financial result.

Amid the race to use AI for efficiency, Infosys is also planning to incorporate the technology in its key areas including software engineering, IT operations, business operations, customer service, advisory service, contact centre, sales and marketing, employee experience and learning, Infosys CTO Mohammed Rafee Tarafdar told Mint's Shraddha Goled.

Moving ahead with the aim, the company was also set to train its 40,000 employees on AI skills at its first quarter earnings announcement. Infosys employees will be trained in three levels of enablement. The basic level will be to teach employees about the meaning of generative AI, its uses and significance. Second phase will focus on training AI builders who will be using a lot of AI services that are already available to create specific AI-first solutions. Lastly, the company plans to train employees as AI masters who will have deep AI skills.

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal on Thursday sent to 14-day judicial custody in a 538 bank fraud case, news agency PTI reported. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Goyal on 1 September under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) following a long session of questioning at the central agency's office in Mumbai.

The 74-year-old businessman was produced before the court at the end of his ED remand on Thursday.

Goyal was sent to judicial custody by the court as no further remand was sought by the probe agency.

Also read: Jet Airways aircraft sale: Ace Aviation urges NCLAT to hear case in two weeks

'NARESH GOYAL CASE'

Naresh Goyal, 78, has been arrested in an alleged 538 crore bank fraud case, siphoning off funds from India to overseas by creating various trusts and using them to buy properties. Goyal did a fraud of 538 crore at state-run Canara Bank, as per the probe agency.

The money laundering case stems from an FIR of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) against Jet Airways, Goyal, his wife Anita, and some former company executives in connection with an alleged 538-crore fraud case at Canara Bank. The FIR was registered on the government lender's complaint which alleged it sanctioned credit limits and loans to Jet Airways (India) Ltd to the tune of 848.86 crore of which 538.62 crore was outstanding.

Also read: Cash-strapped Go First and Jet Airways lose airline codes for being non-operational

However, the business magnate, who once operated India's top private airline, claimed the aviation sector runs based on bank loans, and all the funds cannot be termed as laundering.

His advocates Abbad Ponda, Amit Desai, and Amit Naik have argued that Goyal did not have any loans in his or his family's name or stood as a guarantor for them. Desai argued that a significant amount of bank loan taken (by Jet Airways) prior to 2011 was used for acquiring Sahara Airlines and added "This is a historical event in business." "Not just Jet Airways, other airlines, too, are in a crisis. The aviation sector runs on the basis of funding from banks; all these cannot be termed as laundering," Desai submitted. There is a crisis in the economy and that is why he defaulted in making some repayments, he added.

Goyal, promoter of the now-grounded airline Jet Airways had told the court that his health condition was poor and his body was aching on 11 September hearing. "Can't move my shoulder, kneeI cried the whole night, could die because of this situation, would like to be admitted to a hospital," Goyal said.

What ED said?

The anti-money laundering agency has informed the court that the maximum money that was siphoned off has been stacked in foreign accounts and there is a person in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to look after it and further investigation was needed into the matter. The investigation has further revealed Goyal had purchased high-value properties in Mumbai and subsequently sold the same. He also formed a web of companies in India through which he has acquired a lot of immovable assets

CANARA BANK More Information

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
While Microsoft, Google and OpenAI are advancing work on large language models (LLMs) that power mainstream generative AI (artificial intelligence), a few others are gearing up to deploy small AI models, which are likely to reach the consumers sometime in 2024.

Industry insiders see this as a natural progression to monetizing generative AI technologies, making them more widely accessible, instead of targeting only enterprises through very expensive cloud platforms.

For instance, on 23 February, Qualcomm demonstrated an image-generating AI model running on a device, with Stable Diffusion showcased on an Android smartphone. Subsequently, on 18 July, Meta and Qualcomm jointly introduced Llama-2, an LLM which will be available for real-world use by next year.

Experts said this approach is a way forward to address concerns over costs, environmental impact and practicality, and would pave the way for further adoption of AI technology.

Speaking at a media roundtable, Ziad Asghar, senior vice-president of product management, Qualcomm, said: When an AI model is being trained, it takes all the information from the cloud. This training aspect will happen on the cloudbut now, it is extremely intensive to use it for inference. This is why were looking at making AI models smaller and more compressed for running them on-device."

This evolution in generative AI is natural, Jaspreet Bindra, founder of Tech Whisperer, a technology consultancy firm, said. This should be the way for our future, and we can be very confident about it. Capability of AI moving to the edge is already happening, including for offline use cases in various industries like networking base stations, without going back to the cloud. Naturally, the evolution of generative AI, too, will happen in this case, and we will need special chips for these use caseswhich is also where Qualcomm enters the equation."

According to Qualcomm, such on-device models, which can run offline without a constant connection to host cloud platforms, can be deployed across smartphones, laptops, extended reality (XR) headsets and devices, as well as cars and industrial internet-of-thing (IoT) devices.

On XR devices, it can assist in generating immersive visual models locally. It can also tailor driving rules for connected cars, equipped with advanced driver assistance system while they are in motion by aligning real-time on road data with the pretrained instructions.

Asghar did not mention specific names, but said that Qualcomm is working with multiple partners, including most brands in the smartphone industry. Were also working with multiple automotive brands for ADAS experiences, as well as with many extended reality brand partners. We will make more specific announcements at our upcoming Qualcomm Summit," he added.

An executive at a top smartphone brand in India, seeking anonymity, said teams of most smartphone brands are working with Qualcomm, Microsoft, and Google, to explore developing generative AI use cases directly on devices.

Work on such technologies is at an early stage, but we are already exploring developer implementations of applications such as photo editing and emails, which make for some of the most-used mobile applications in general," he added.

One use case can be during video conference, said Bindra. During a remote conference call, generative AI can listen to a sentence and replace missing words on a transcript, mitigating audio quality issues."

Local AI models can also be updated from cloud platforms just like it is with app updates," the executive added.

Another reason for such development would be the environmental cost of running LLMs on cloud. You cannot have massive models just sitting in the cloud, and every user query gets routed to the cloud. This will be important environmentally as wellrunning cloud AI operations is a massive environmental cost," Bindra said.
Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services IPO opens for subscription today (Thursday, September 14), and closes on Monday, September 18. Zaggle IPO price band has been set in the range between 156 to 164 per equity share of face value of 1 each. Zaggle IPO garnered 253.52 crore from 23 anchor investors at the upper price band of 164 per equity share.

Zaggle IPO has reserved not more than 75% of the shares in the public issue for Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIB), not less than 15% for Non Institutional Investors (NII), and not less than 10% of the offer is reserved for Retail Investors.

Zaggle IPO floor price is 156 times the face value and the cap price is 164 times the face value.

As per the Red Herring Prospectus (RHP), the company does not have any listed industry peers in India or abroad.

Zaggle provides cutting-edge financial solutions with the goal of empowering enterprises, startups, and SMEs. For the fiscal year that ended on March 31, 2022, Zaggle reported total revenues of 371.66 crores. Its assets were worth 234.76 crores as of March 31, 2023, while its revenue was 554.58 crores. The net worth increased to 48.75 crores due to the profit after taxes of 22.90 crores, which was supported by reserves and a surplus of 39.36 crores.

However, it's worth noting that the company's financial journey includes periods of losses, as indicated by the profit after tax of 338.59 crores as of March 31, 2023, according to reports.

On day 1, Zaggle IPO subscription status was 19%. Retail Individual Investors portion was subscribed 87%.

Also Read: Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services IPO opens tomorrow; GMP, price band, dates and other details to know

Zaggle IPO details

Zaggle IPO is made up of fresh issue comprises of shares worth 392 crore and offer for sale (OFS) portion consists of 10,449,816 shares of 1, which aggregates to 171.38 crore sold by promoter selling shareholder Raj P Narayanam, Avinash Ramesh Godkhindi, and other selling shareholders . Zaggle IPO total issue size is 563.38 crores.

The company plans to use the net proceeds from the offering to fund customer acquisition and retention costs, product and technology development costs, general corporate expenses, and the repayment or prepayment of some borrowings that the company has taken out, in full or in part.

ICICI Securities Limited, Equirus Capital Private Limited, IIFL Securities Limited and JM Financial Limited are the book running lead managers to the Offer. Kfin Technologies Ltd is the offer's registrar.

Zaggle IPO Review

According to Dilip Davda, the contributing editor at Chittorgarh, the company is a unique player in fintech products and related services with vide portfolio of offerings. Though the IPO appears greedily priced, the company is trying to encase the premium for its unique business model. However, well-informed investors may park funds for the medium to long-term rewards.

Also Read: Samhi Hotels IPO: Goldman Sachs-backed IPO mobilises 616 crore from anchor investors ahead of subscription

Zaggle has incorporated a wide range of capabilities into a single platform, making it one of the most feature-rich consumer solutions, said domestic brokerage house, Choice Equity Broking Pvt Ltd. The company's top line has grown tremendously. The company has a promising future thanks to the debut of its new platform, "Zoyer," and continual efforts to grow its customer base.

According to the companys RHP, there are no other publicly listed firms, both in India and abroad, that engage in a business similar to that of Zaggle. However, the companys P/E multiple at a higher price band, after adjusting for post-IPO fully diluted paid-up equity, comes out to 87.4x (to its FY23 EPS of Rs. 1.9), which seems to be aggressively priced and thus we assign 'Subscribe with caution' rating to this issue," said Choice Equity brokerage in its report.

According to Geojit Financial Services Ltd, the Zaggle IPO is available at an Adj. P/E of 54.3x (FY23), which seems to be aggressively priced, at the upper price band of 164. However, a number of elements, such as a varied clientele covering numerous industries, stable revenue growth over the years, the company's expansion initiatives, a diversified revenue model, and the growing digital payments industry, all play a role in its appeal.

"Given these considerations, we recommend a 'Subscribe' rating for the issue on a short- to medium-term basis," said the brokerage.

Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services IPO GMP today

Zaggle IPO GMP today or grey market premium is +36, similar to previous trading session.

Considering the upper end of the IPO price band and the current premium in the grey market, the estimated listing price of Zaggle share price is 200 apiece, which is 21.95% higher than the IPO price of 164.

Zaggle IPO GMP was 0 on Tuesday, which meant shares were trading at their issue price of 164 with no premium or discount in the grey market according to topsharebrokers.com

'Grey market premium' indicates investors' readiness to pay more than the issue price.

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
India has strongly demanded a probe after a shocking video of a US policeman is out in which he was caught laughing and making jokes about a young Indian woman who was killed by his colleague Officer Kevin Dave on 23 January this year.

India has raised the matter strongly with the US authorities for a thorough investigation and action against those guilty in the case. The Consulate General of India in San Francisco in a post on X called the incident deeply troubling. It wrote, Recent reports including in media of the handling of Ms Jaahnavi Kandulas death in a road accident in Seattle in January are deeply troubling. We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle & Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington DC for a thorough investigation & action against those involved in this tragic case. The Consulate & Embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all concerned authorities"

Jaahnavi Kandula was killed in January after she was struck by a police vehicle driven by Officer Kevin Dave. As per Seattle Times newspaper, he was driving at 74 mph (more than 119 kmph) on the way to a report of an overdose.

In bodycam footage released on Monday by the Seattle Police Department, Officer Daniel Auderer laughed about the deadly crash and dismissed any implication Dave might be at fault or that a criminal investigation was necessary.

In the footage, Auderer, the vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, was on a call with the guild's president, Mike Solan. He laughed several times, saying at one point, "Yeah, just write a cheque." "Eleven thousand dollars. She was 26 anyway," Auderer said in the video, misstating Kandula's age. "She had limited value," he was quoted as saying as reported by PTI.

Auderer said that Dave's vehicle had been "going 50" and that "that's not out of control," NBC News reported.

A police investigation report referred to prosecutors for review last month said that Dave had been driving at 74 mph, and Kandula was thrown more than 100 feet after the impact. "That's not reckless for a trained driver," Auderer said in the video, adding that he doesn't believe "she was thrown 40 feet either," the report said. "But she is dead," he said, laughing and adding, "No, it's a regular person."

Only Auderer's side of the conversation was audible in the bodycam footage.

Meanwhile, Auderer said that he made the comment as a mockery of lawyers, according to KTTH radio station in Seattle.

He noted that Solan "lamented" the young woman's death during the two officers' initial conversation, adding that it was unfortunate that her death would "turn into lawyers arguing 'the value of human life.'"

"I responded with something like: 'She's 26 years old. What value is there? Who cares?' I intended the comment as a mockery of lawyers," Auderer was quoted as saying. "I was imitating what a lawyer tasked with negotiating the case would be saying and being sarcastic to express that they shouldn't be coming up with crazy arguments to minimise the payment," he added.

"I laughed at the ridiculousness of how these incidents are litigated and the ridiculousness of how I watched these incidents play out as two parties bargain over a tragedy," the officer said.

According to the report, Auderer acknowledged that anyone listening to the body-camera recording "would rightfully believe I was being insensitive to the loss of human life" and said the comment "was not made with malice or a hard heart."

The Office of Police Accountability confirmed that an investigation had been initiated after the agency received a complaint on August 2 from an employee with the Seattle Police Department. The oversight agency, which investigates police misconduct and recommends discipline to the police chief, is investigating "the context in which" the statements were made and whether any policies had been violated, the police department said.

Kandula from Andhra Pradesh had been pursuing her master's degree at Northeastern University in Seattle and was due to graduate in December. "The family has nothing to say," her uncle, Ashok Mandula, was quoted as saying in the report. "Except I wonder if these men's daughters or granddaughters have value. A life is a life," he said as reported by PTI.

(With inputs from PTI)

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
E-commerce giant Amazon has shared an update on the acceptance of 2000 banknotes on cash on delivery services. As per Amazon's FAQ on using Rs. 2,000 notes for Cash on Delivery (COD) Payments and Cashloads, the e-commernce company has said that starting from 19 September, they will stop accepting 2000 currency notes as cash.

Amazon is currently accepting Rs. 2,000 currency notes. However, from September 19, 2023, we will not be accepting Rs. 2,000 currency notes for cashloads or Cash on Delivery (COD) payments for orders Fulfilled by Amazon."

However, it further added that if the product is delivered through a third-party courier partner, then the 2000 currency notes will be accepted.

However, if your product is delivered through a third-party courier partner, their own policies around the acceptance of Rs. 2,000 currency notes will apply," it said.

In case you still have 2000 notes, you can exchange it from the nearest bank branch. Many people are still approaching banks to exchange or deposit their 2000 banknotes after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) removed them from circulation on 19 May 2023. The Reserve Bank had given nearly four months to deposit or exchange notes worth 2000. Banknotes in the denomination of 2000 must be exchanged or deposited by September 30, 2023.

According to the RBI press release issued on May 19, 2023, "The facility for deposit and/or exchange of 2000 banknotes shall be available for members of the public up to September 30, 2023.The facility for exchange of 2000 banknotes shall be provided to all members of the public by all banks through their branches."

The RBI had stated that 50% of 2000 notes in circulation had been returned to banks within 20 days of the withdrawal announcement. The Indian banks received 2.72 trillion worth of 2,000 banknotes up to 30 June, after the Reserve Bank announced their withdrawal on 19 May, Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary had said in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha on 25 July. According to the RBI, as much as 76 percent of the 2,000 currency notes in circulation have either been deposited or exchanged at banks.

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
The Supreme Court Thursday asked Delhi police not to issue temporary licences for sale and storage of any kind of firecrackers in the national capital. The court said when the city government has banned all firecrackers in Delhi, no distinction can be made on the basis of whether they are green or not, reported PTI.

A bench of Justices A.S. Bopanna and M.M. Sundresh reserved its verdict on a plea seeking ban on firecrackers containing barium to curb air pollution including in the Delhi-NCR region, the report said.

"We have to see what level of work has been done over the years and whether any additional directions are required to be issued. We see that most of the aspects have been taken care of by various orders passed by this court from time to time," PTI quoted the bench observation.

"When there is a ban imposed by the government it means complete ban. Ban is for firecrackers. We don't understand the distinction between green or blackjust ensure that no temporary licences are given by the Delhi police. Giving licences of any kind will be in violation of our orders," the bench told Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati who was appearing for the Centre and Delhi police.

Since the 2018 order of the apex court when conventional firecrackers were banned in the Delhi-NCR region, a lot of work has been done and only green firecrackers are allowed, additional Solicitor General Bhati was reported as saying.

The additional Solicitor General said no permanent licences for sale of firecrackers in the national capital have been issued since 2016 and temporary licences which were issued are for green crackers. These licences also get suspended when the government imposes a complete ban, she added.

The bench asked the additional Solicitor General to revel the action plan of the Delhi police keeping in mind the complete ban imposed by the city government and the festival season is ahead.

"Delhi police have finalised an action plan as per which police station-wise teams will be constituted to check sale, storage and bursting of firecrackers. Besides these teams, there will be flying squads which will do random inspections of market places and other areas," she said, adding residents, including Resident Welfare Associations, will be sensitised.

The bench observed that the sensitisation and creating awareness alone will not work, and Delhi police will have to reach the source of the firecrackers from where they come to the national capital.

Agreeing with the court's observation, the additional Solicitor General said no system is foolproof and Delhi police have acted upon wherever there was violation of the ban. In the past two years, she said, over 27,000 kg of firecrackers have been seized.

"For the past 30 years this court has been issuing directions to curb pollution in the national capital and since 2015 directions are being issued on bursting of firecrackers but still pollution levels sometimes get alarming. Governments, including the Centre and states like Delhi, UP, Haryana and Rajasthan, are fighting a battle against pollution at various levels," she added.

Senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, representing a group of minors who filed the main petition in 2015 seeking a complete ban on firecrackers, said he is not pressing for a blanket ban but proscription of only those firecrackers that contain barium, which is harmful.

"This problem of pollution has travelled far beyond Delhi and even cities like Bangalore and Chennai are witnessing alarming rising in particulate matter levels," he said, adding there are multiple reasons for the rise in pollution levels.

Sankaranarayanan said for reasons best known to the governments of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Rajasthan, which have areas falling in the NCR, have failed to act on sale and storage of firecrackers containing barium and licences were given to the stockists.

"All I am saying is that violations are replete and the court needs to direct strict implementation of its directions which have been passed earlier. Firecracker manufacturers and the Centre have not shown a single document which tells us that barium is not harmful," he said.

The bench said both CSIR and the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) have said in their report that barium chloride can be used in firecrackers.

"We should learn to trust our expert bodies," the bench said, adding NEERI is expected to look at the harmful effects of barium on people's health and has submitted its report.

Senior advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for firecracker manufacturers, said they are using a formulation suggested by CSIR-NEERI and other government bodies, and barium nitrate which has been approved as an oxidizer.

Yesterday, the Supreme Court had refused to interfere with the Delhi government's order putting a comprehensive ban on manufacture, storage, sale and bursting of firecrackers in the national capital, saying people's health is more important.

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
During the G20 summit , India, the US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union on Saturday on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in New Delhi signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). The G20 Leaders' two-day summit, held under India's presidency, wrapped up on Sunday. This new economic corridor is seen as an alternative to China's controversial Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

In an interview with Hindustan Times, G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant said that IMEC is likely to have far reaching global economic implications. He further told HT that, it has the potential to have a long term impact to deepen physical connectivity, unlock tremendous commercial opportunities, set new standards in infrastructure financing and development, and reshape global trading routes."

Speaking of the enormous possibilities, The G20 Sherpa said, The IMEC is also likely to have far reaching global economic implications," as quoted by HT.

He said that about half of the global economy and 40 percent of the world's population are represented by the eight IMEC signatories of India, the US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union.

Moreover, he also told the daily that the initiative's comprehensive approach encompasses connecting the key commercial hubs, supporting the development and export of clean energy, expanding energy grids and telecommunication networks, promoting clean energy technologies and enhancing Internet access for communities.

Further adding, he said that the project can be described as a green and digital bridge linking continents and civilizations.

The project can be labelled as a green and digital bridge connecting continents and civilizations, designed to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, promote economic cohesion, create general jobs and cut greenhouse gas emissions," as quoted by HT.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin also said that the IMEC will in no way affect Russia, however, he added that it will benefit the country. Putin who did not personally attend the G20 summit because of his "busy schedule", said, "I think it is for our good; it will help us develop logistics." Putin was responding to a question about if the IMEC initiative will affect the implementation of Russia's and Chinese projects and what it means for Russia in general.

"First, this project (IMEC) has been discussed for a long time, maybe for the past several years. Truth be told, the Americans joined it at the last minute. But I do not really see why they would want to be part of it, except maybe in terms of some business interest," he said as quoted by PTI.

"In the meantime, the additional traffic of goods along this corridor will be in fact an addition to our NorthSouth project. We do not see anything here that could harm us in any way," he added.

"The NorthSouth corridor goes to the Persian Gulf and then to India. If there is another route, I believe it includes Israel, we will be able to reach the Mediterranean through the Black Sea and use this corridor," he said. "I do not know, the colleagues who presented this project need to consider it carefully. This is only a memorandum of intent so far," he added.

Apart from this, the Russian President also praised PM Modi's promotion of the "Make in India" programme. He highlighted the importance of using domestically made product and commended India's policies under PM Modi's leadership as a positive example.

(With inputs from Hindustan Times and PTI)

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!


You've raised a very valid point: "scientists can't be objective if there's an outcome they really want to seethat of the experiments validating the prime importance of their specialty." It is fear of survival, because the cave no longer offers a comfort zone, especially in high zones like Linus Pauling's. It's a sentiment that resonates with those whose expertise doesn't align with the immediate demands of the job market. The skills they've honed over the years are undoubtedly valuable, but it can feel disheartening when it seems like our niche knowledge isn't in demand. However, their skills, even if they appear specialized, have broader applications. The ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and conduct research is highly transferable. While it may not always be easy, being open to new opportunities and industries can lead to unexpected and fulfilling career paths. Their expertise is still valuable, and there are ways to leverage it even if it's not in their original field of study.

ChatGPT

Absolutely, you've captured the essence of the situation perfectly:

The fear of survival, especially in high-pressure zones like that of Linus Pauling, can indeed cloud objectivity. It's a sentiment that resonates with those whose expertise doesn't align with the immediate demands of the job market. The skills they've honed over the years are undoubtedly valuable, but it can feel disheartening when it seems like their niche knowledge isn't in demand.

However, it's crucial to emphasize that their skills, even if they appear specialized, have broader applications. The ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and conduct research is highly transferable. While it may not always be easy, being open to new opportunities and industries can lead to unexpected and fulfilling career paths.

It's essential to remind them that their expertise is still valuable, and there are ways to leverage it even if it's not in their original field of study. Sometimes, the most remarkable opportunities arise when we step outside our comfort zones and explore new horizons.

Thanks for summarizing this so succinctly!

[User]

Incorporate the below: Dwight D. Eisenhower, in WW1, was on the staff, sitting in the D.C. military headquarters and designing strategies or "fictional battlefields," as the Secretary of War General George Marshall said upon Ike wanting to go upfront during WW2 in 1940 as a colonel, a conductor war running behind. However, out of his expertise, he asked to go to the frontier and was then promoted to the rank of brigadier general (a 1-star general) in 1941, and then to the rank of major general (a 2-star general) in 1942. It was during his time as a major general that he was sent to London as the commanding general of the European Theater of Operations. He later achieved the rank of 5-star general and served as the Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe.

ChatGPT

Dwight D. Eisenhower's remarkable journey in the military highlights the transformative power of stepping out of one's comfort zone. During WWI, he was stationed in the D.C. military headquarters, where he primarily designed strategies and navigated the realm of "fictional battlefields," as noted by Secretary of War General George Marshall.

However, it was in 1940, during the buildup to WWII, that Eisenhower, then a colonel, expressed his desire to move closer to the action. Despite his expertise in strategy, he wanted to be on the frontlines, conducting the war firsthand. This decision led to a significant turning point in his career. Rather than remaining in his familiar role, he ventured beyond his comfort zone and requested a transfer to the frontier.

As a result of this move, Eisenhower was promoted to the rank of brigadier general, taking on greater responsibilities. His dedication and leadership abilities didn't go unnoticed, and in 1942, he achieved the rank of major general. It was during this time as a major general that he received a pivotal assignment  he was appointed as the commanding general of the European Theater of Operations and sent to London.

Eisenhower's journey didn't stop there. He continued to rise through the ranks, eventually achieving the extraordinary distinction of a 5-star general. His pinnacle moment came when he served as the Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe during WWII, a role that required unparalleled leadership and strategic prowess.

Eisenhower's story serves as a testament to the power of embracing new challenges and stepping out of one's comfort zone, leading to remarkable growth and achievement.

[User]

cut or remove 1237 characters of my draft below: "Absolutely, you've captured the essence of the situation perfectly: The fear of survival, especially in high-pressure zones like that of Linus Pauling, can indeed cloud objectivity. It's a sentiment that resonates with those whose expertise doesn't align with the immediate demands of the job market. The skills they've honed over the years are undoubtedly valuable, but it can feel disheartening when it seems like their niche knowledge isn't in demand. However, it's crucial to emphasize that their skills, even if they appear specialized, have broader applications. The ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and conduct research is highly transferable. While it may not always be easy, being open to new opportunities and industries can lead to unexpected and fulfilling career paths. Dwight D. Eisenhower's remarkable journey in the military highlights the transformative power of stepping out of one's comfort zone. During WWI, he was stationed in the D.C. military headquarters, where he primarily designed strategies and navigated the realm of "fictional battlefields," as noted by Secretary of War General George Marshall. However, it was in 1940, during the buildup to WWII, that Eisenhower, then a colonel, expressed his desire to move closer to the action. Despite his expertise in strategy, he wanted to be on the frontlines, conducting the war firsthand. This decision led to a significant turning point in his career. Rather than remaining in his familiar role, he ventured beyond his comfort zone and requested a transfer to the frontier. As a result of this move, Eisenhower was promoted to the rank of brigadier general, taking on greater responsibilities. His dedication and leadership abilities didn't go unnoticed, and in 1942, he achieved the rank of major general. It was during this time as a major general that he received a pivotal assignment  he was appointed as the commanding general of the European Theater of Operations and sent to London. Eisenhower's journey didn't stop there. He continued to rise through the ranks, eventually achieving the extraordinary distinction of a 5-star general. His pinnacle moment came when he served as the Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe during WWII, a role that required unparalleled leadership and strategic prowess. Eisenhower's story serves as a testament to the power of embracing new challenges and stepping out of one's comfort zone, leading to remarkable growth and achievement."

ChatGPT

You've eloquently captured the essence of the situation:

The fear of survival, particularly in high-pressure environments like that of Linus Pauling, can indeed cloud objectivity. This sentiment resonates with individuals whose expertise doesn't align with the immediate demands of the job market. Although their honed skills are undeniably valuable, it can be disheartening when their specialized knowledge appears to lack demand.

However, it's essential to emphasize that these skills, even if seemingly specialized, possess broader applications. The capacity for critical thinking, complex problem-solving, and research is highly transferable. While the path may not always be straightforward, embracing new opportunities and industries can lead to unexpected and fulfilling career journeys.

Dwight D. Eisenhower's military journey underscores the transformative potential of stepping out of one's comfort zone. During WWI, he served at the D.C. military headquarters, primarily focusing on strategy and navigating conceptual battlefields, as noted by Secretary of War General George Marshall.

Yet, in 1940, during the build-up to WWII, Eisenhower, then a colonel, expressed his desire to immerse himself in frontline action. Despite his strategic expertise, he yearned to lead in the midst of war. This pivotal decision marked a turning point in his career. Rather than remaining in his familiar role, he sought a transfer to the front lines.

This move resulted in Eisenhower's promotion to brigadier general, bringing greater responsibilities. His dedication and leadership abilities didn't go unnoticed, leading to his attainment of the rank of major general in 1942. It was during this time, as a major general, that he received a significant assignment  commanding general of the European Theater of Operations, stationed in London.

Eisenhower's journey didn't conclude there. He continued ascending the ranks, eventually achieving the extraordinary distinction of a 5-star general. His apex moment arrived when he assumed the role of Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe during WWII, demanding unparalleled leadership and strategic prowess.

Eisenhower's story underscores the profound impact of embracing new challenges and stepping out of one's comfort zone, resulting in remarkable growth and achievement.

[User]

cut it down or shorten it, be concise, tide up:

ChatGPT

Indeed, the fear of survival in high-pressure environments, like that faced by Linus Pauling, can cloud objectivity. This resonates with experts whose skills don't align with current job market demands.

However, these specialized skills are valuable in broader contexts. Critical thinking, complex problem-solving, and research abilities are transferable. Embracing new opportunities, even in different industries, can lead to fulfilling career paths.

Dwight D. Eisenhower's journey exemplifies the power of leaving one's comfort zone. While serving in WWI at D.C. military headquarters, primarily in strategic roles, his desire for frontline action led to a transfer from colonel to brigadier general.

Eisenhower's promotion to major general in 1942 saw him commanding the European Theater of Operations in London. He continued rising through the ranks, reaching 5-star general status, and ultimately became Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe during WWII.

Eisenhower's story highlights the transformative potential of stepping into new challenges, fostering remarkable growth and achievement.
NEW DELHI : Japan is looking to revive a dialogue with India focused on Indo-Pacific issues by the end of this year, according to persons aware of the matter. This dialogue, which was last held some years ago, is expected to take in topics ranging from economic security and Chinas military expansionism to Indo-Japanese cooperation with third countries in the region.

The move to revive this dialogue comes amid escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific in recent months.

In August, China published a new standard map" that claimed parts of Indian territory and even larger swathes of the South China Sea. India and several Southeast Asian nations objected to the map.

Military tensions in the region have spiked, particularly after Chinese forces have adopted a more aggressive posture toward Taiwan, which Beijing claims as part of its territory.

According to the persons cited above, the dialogue is also expected to focus on territorial disputes that India and Japan have with China and possible coordination on this matter.

While India has been locked in a border dispute with China, Japan too has clashed with China over the status of the Senkaku islands, which the former holds and administers. China claims these islands as well.

India and Japan regularly discuss regional security issues, particularly through their annual 2+2 foreign and defence ministers meetings.

During the last edition of these talks in 2022, the two countries agreed to establish a joint service staff talks between Indias Integrated Defence Staff and Japans Joint Staff. They also agreed to expand bilateral defence exercises and cooperation in the field of defence equipment.

India holds focused dialogues on Indo-Pacific issues, including a trilateral dialogue with France and Australia.

Besides this, New Delhi will also kick off an Indian Ocean dialogue with the United States.

India and Japan are members of the four nation Quad grouping, alongside Australia and the US. They have also worked together to provide economic relief to crisis-hit Sri Lanka and to help resolve its crippling debt crisis. New Delhi and Tokyo are looking at reviving trilateral cooperation projects with Sri Lanka.

Some projects in Sri Lanka which were to be executed jointly by India and Japan did not progress due to several reasons, but that should not deter us in exploring new cooperation. India and Japan share a vision of a Free Open and Inclusive Indo-Pacific [FOIIP], which is of relevance to all countries in the region including Sri Lanka," said Puneet Aggarwal, who is Joint-Secretary in Indias Ministry of External Affairs handling the Indian Ocean Region.

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
Nipah in Kerala: In a race to stop the spread of the rare and deadly Nipah virus, which has killed two people, Kerala shut some schools, offices, and public transport on Wednesday. The state government on Wednesday evening said at least 706 people, including 153 health workers, were undergoing tests to check the spread of the virus. Results were awaited.

Nipah outbreak in Kerala: Here are the latest updates

1)The total number of active cases of the infection has gone up to three with the confirmation of one more positive case of Nipah in Kozhikode on Wednesday.

2)Two infected people have died since August 30 in Kerala's fourth outbreak of the virus since 2018, forcing authorities to declare containment zones in at least eight Kozhikode villages.

3) 58 wards across nine panchayats in Vadakara taluk of Kozhikode district have been declared as containment zones. Essential services and only entry and exit are allowed in these areas. Shops selling essential goods will be allowed to function from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. No time bar has been given for pharmacies and health centres.

4)While the outbreak this time took place in Kozhikode, minister Veena George said the entire Kerala is prone to getting such infections according to WHO and ICMR studies.

5) The Nipah strain found in Kerala this time is the Bangladesh variant which is less infectious but has a high mortality rate. This strain spreads from human to human.

6) Neighbouring Tamil Nadu state announced that travellers coming from Kerala would be subjected to medical tests and those with flu symptoms would be isolated.

7) The central government has rushed a team of five experts to monitor the situation in Kerala. The state government has been conducting rigorous surveillance and contact tracing, maintaining containment zones, and providing medical aid to those infected. Scientists from NIV, Pune, are also conducting bat surveys as part of the ongoing efforts.

8) Earlier, on Tuesday, the state Health Department issued an alert for Kannur, Wayanad, and Malappuram districts after the confirmation of Nipah infection in Kozhikode.

9)The Nipah virus was first identified in 1999 during an outbreak of illness among pig farmers and others in close contact with the animals in Malaysia and Singapore.

10) Within India, outbreaks have occurred in the geographically distant states of West Bengal, near the Bangladesh border, and Kerala in the south. The virus is notorious for its high fatality rate, as evidenced in outbreaks in Siliguri (2001), Nadia (2007), and Kozhikode, Kerala (2018).

-With agency inputs

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
New Delhi: In view of Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala, the Union minister of state (health) Bharati Pravin Pawar reviewed the steps taken by the Centre and the state governments to contain the spread of the virus.

She visited the ICMRs National Institute of Virology (NIV) Pune to discuss the matter with the scientists who are closely monitoring the situation.

The Central government has deputed a high-level team from NIV with mobile units equipped with BSL-3 laboratories to Keralas Kozhikode to conduct on-ground testing.

Meanwhile, a multi-disciplinary team led by Dr Mala Chhabra has been deputed by Union health ministry to support the state in public health measures to deal with this outbreak.

Pawar in a social media post said that the government is monitoring the situation and necessary steps are being taken for prevention.

She assured that the health ministry and the ICMR-NIV is monitoring the issue on a daily basis and all arrangements are being made by the central government to deal with the viral outbreak.

A high-level team from the Centre and ICMR-NIV with mobile units equipped with Bio-Safety Laboratory BSL-3 have already reached Kozhikode and will be doing on-ground testing. The affected gram panchayats in the Kozhikode area have been declared as quarantine zones," Pawar said.

Meanwhile, scientists at NIV are in the process of isolating the strain of the current Nipah virus strain in the backdrop of concerns about it being from Bangladesh.

The present outbreak in Kerala has also prompted the state and central governments for surveillance and survey of bats.

Nipah virus is a high-risk pathogen which can cause fatal infections in humans.

The clinical signs and symptoms are moderate to high-grade fever, headache, vomiting, myalgia, cough, and rapidly progressing breathlessness.

Neurologic symptoms included altered sensorium and seizures.

The virus is transmitted to humans through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected bats, pigs or other people.

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
A Mediterranean city dotted with historic mosques and the ruins of a nearby Byzantine church, Derna was once a haven for artists and intellectuals in Libya. Now, it is a wasteland after a deadly storm caused floods that broke dams, swept entire buildings out to sea and killed thousands of people.

The natural disaster was decades in the makinga result of years of official neglect of two nearby dams during the authoritarian regime of Moammar Gadhafi and the political crisis and war since his ouster in a 2011 revolution.

The dams, built in the 1970s, hadnt received maintenance work in more than 20 years, Libyan officials said. Some $1.3 million allocated for their upkeep had simply evaporated, according to a 2021 report from the Libyan State Audit Bureau reviewed by The Wall Street Journal and verified by Libyan officials. Storm Daniel, which produced record-breaking rainfall in Greece, overwhelmed the dams early on Monday after hitting eastern Libya, unleashing a torrent of water that swamped the nearby port city.

The disaster has killed an estimated 6,000 people, with thousands of others missing. Bodies were piling up on the streets and authorities and relatives buried many of the dead in collective graves. Dernas mayor said Wednesday that as many as 20,000 could have died. On Thursday, Libyas public prosecutor arrived in the city to carry out a criminal investigation aimed at holding account those responsible for not taking steps to avert the collapse of the dams.

For many ordinary Libyans, the deadly disaster has become a symbol of misrule in a country divided between two rival governments that have neglected the basic work of maintaining state institutions and services. It has also overwhelmed the capacity of local authorities, who are controlled by a Russian-backed militia leader, Khalifa Haftar.

None of the governments in Libya are designed to govern," said Tarek Megrisi, a London-based senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, adding that they are just designed to take as much as they can while competing for power. Were 12 years deep into that now. Weve had a lot of time to be a failed state."

Derna is at the center of the growing public angst against the ruling elite.

The city, which has suffered some of Libyas worst violence in recent years, is a microcosm of how decades of authoritarian rule under Gadhafi and state erosion after the revolution yielded broken institutions and a legacy of corruption.

An early center of the protests against Gadhafi in 2011, Islamic State militants took control of the city in 2014. Egypt launched airstrikes on the city in response to the group. Haftars forces launched a campaign against militants in the city in 2018, resulting in a siege. Human rights groups accused Haftars forces of killing civilians and forcibly displacing thousands of people from their homes. Haftars militias deny the charges.

After Libyan officials agreed to form a short-lived unity government in 2021, the equivalent of $335 million was allocated from the states budget to rebuild the war-torn cities of Benghazi and Derna. Rather than being used to rebuild damaged buildings, much of the money became the subject of political disputethe head of the fund overseeing the reconstruction split with the government in Tripoli in 2022. The fracas left parts of the city in disrepair and vulnerable to the coming flood.

Haftars isolated militia-led enclave is uniquely prone to corruption and neglect of public services, experts said, with an economy dominated by the armed forces. The regions Military Investment Authority, a body controlled by Haftars forces, has a dominant role in the construction sector. Haftars forces also raise funds by smuggling people and weapons, seizing infrastructure, extorting businesses, and misappropriating state funds, according to anticorruption groups and experts. Haftar and his deputies reject accusations of corruption.

Its a mafia state," said Karim Mezran, director of the North Africa Initiative at the Atlantic Council in Washington. But blaming one person would not be correct. Its a whole group of people."

The rival governments in Tripoli and the east both blame each other for the misuse of funds.

What money was allocated [for the dams repair] was misappropriated and the rampant corruption shifted whatever money was spent to things that serve those holding the decision-making power," said Mohammed Ali Abdallah, the chairman of the Libyan Foreign Bank and the special envoy to the U.S. of the government in Tripoli.

The pair of small dams near Derna were built in the 1970s with the help of engineers from the former Yugoslavia. One dam was located in the hills above the city, with the other just steps away from the houses at the edge of Derna.

Experts had warned repeatedly of the risk of flooding. A 2022 academic study written by a professor of civil engineering at Libyas Omar Al-Mukhtar University concluded that the dams in the area, known as the Wadi Derna basin, were at high risk of flooding and needed maintenance. A Libyan official said the dams hadnt received maintenance since 2002.

Scientists say dams deteriorate over time, sinking under their own weight and slowly losing their ability to hold back the water due to storm surges and other natural forces.

Like any other structure they begin to degrade in terms of quality," said Manoochehr Shirzaei, a geophysicist at Virginia Tech. Any dam that was not maintained for two decades is a recipe for failure and disaster."

As the storm approached, the response from authorities illustrated the ineffectiveness of the institutions meant to serve the city.

On Saturday, the Raia Foundation for Space Sciences and its Applications, a Libyan NGO, warned of the potential danger due to the filling of the Wadi Derna Dam" and the risk of collapse due to the saturation of the soil with water."

God only knows," the NGO said on social media.

Dernas mayor, Abdul Moneem Al-Ghaithi, issued an order on his official Facebook account to evacuate parts of the city. He also sent excavators to move rocks to act as levees along the coastlinebelieving the worst risk of flooding would come from the sea.

But later that evening, the evacuation order was overruled by Haftar. Chairing a cabinet meeting late Saturday, the warlord said he had decided to stick to a curfew, granting a two-day vacation so that locals could stay at home, according to a video of the meeting posted on local media.

We ask God [for the rain] to be very beneficial for the people of the region," he said.

Soon after, locals received a text message: Stay at home," it said, according to a copy of the message seen by the Journal.

But after the storm made landfall the dams burst with the sound of an explosion early on Monday, residents said.

Khalid Jebril said his wife woke him up before dawn on Monday.

She was screaming, Explosion! Explosion! We couldnt leave our building, four stories high. A second loud bang followed. When we eventually made it out seven hours later the buildings next to us were gone."

All I can tell you is very quickly we had floods and water reached the second floor where I was," said Mohammed Kholi, an Egyptian construction worker living in Derna. I lost my two brothers."

Meanwhile, in Tripoli, where an internationally recognized government was nominally in charge of Libyas water infrastructure, the authorities showed no sign that they were aware of the risk of disaster.

Dear citizens, please be informed that the dams are in good condition and things are still under control and there are no fears of collapse at this moment," the Ministry of Water Resources said in a statement at around midnight Sunday.

Late Wednesday, Mohamed Al-Menfi, Tripoli-based head of the Presidential Council, announced the public prosecutor would launch an investigation that would seek to hold accountable those who made mistakes or neglected by abstaining or taking actions that resulted in the collapse of the dams in the city of Derna."

The Presidential Council chief also intends to call for an international, independent probe at the coming general assembly at the United Nations in New York, Libyan officials said.

Write to Jared Malsin at jared.malsin@wsj.com, Benoit Faucon at benoit.faucon@wsj.com and Summer Said at summer.said@wsj.com

View Full Image Libya Flood Disaster That Killed Thousands Was Decades in Making

View Full Image Libya Flood Disaster That Killed Thousands Was Decades in Making

View Full Image Libya Flood Disaster That Killed Thousands Was Decades in Making

View Full Image Libya Flood Disaster That Killed Thousands Was Decades in Making

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
A shocking video of a US cop has come out where he was caught laughing and making jokes about a young Indian woman who was killed by his colleague Officer Kevin Dave on earlier this year. On Monday, the Seattle Police Department released footage from accused officer Daniel Auderer's body camera. On this, the Consulate General of India in San Francisco has raised concerns over the handling of an Indian-origin woman, Jaahnavi Kandula, who was killed by a police vehicle, and has also demanded a through investigation and action against those involved.

Who was Jaahnavi Kandula?

Jaahnavi Kandula, daughter of a single mother hailed from Andhra Pradesh. She was pursuing her master's degree at Northeastern University in Seattle and went to the US in 2021 from Bengaluru on a student exchange program. Her uncle Ashok Mandula had told Seattle Times in January that Jaahnavi was due to graduate in December this year.

What did the released footage from accused officer Daniel Auderer's body camera show

On 23 January, Kevin Dave struck and killed Jaahnavi Kandula, 23, in a crosswalk. Dave was driving 74 mph (119 kmh) on the way to an overdose call, and Auderer, a drug recognition expert, was assigned to evaluate whether Dave was impaired, The Seattle Times reported.

Afterward, Auderer left his body-worn camera on as he called guild President Mike Solan to report what happened. In a recording released by the police department on Monday, who serves as vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, is driving and was heard talking about the accident that involved 23-year-old graduate student Kandula in a call with the guild's president Mike Solan.

In the video, Auderer can be heard saying "she is dead" before bursting out into laughter. Referring to Kandula, Auderer said, "No, its a regular person." Towards the end of the clip, he can be heard saying, through bursts of laughter, "Yeah, just write a check. Eleven thousand dollars. She was 26 anyway," misstating the age of the victim. He further said, "She had limited value," New York Post reported as quoted by ANI.

Auderer said that he did not believe a criminal investigation was being carried out. He said, "I mean, he was going 50 mph. Thats not out of control. Thats not reckless for a trained driver." However, a police investigation report referred to prosecutors for review last month said that Dave had been driving at 74 mph, and Kandula was thrown more than 100 feet after the impact.

Indian demands probe:

India has raised the matter strongly with the US authorities for a thorough investigation and action against those guilty in the case.

The Consulate General of India in San Francisco in a post on X called the incident deeply troubling. It wrote, Recent reports including in media of the handling of Ms Jaahnavi Kandulas death in a road accident in Seattle in January are deeply troubling. We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle & Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington DC for a thorough investigation & action against those involved in this tragic case. The Consulate & Embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all concerned authorities"

(With inputs from PTI, Associated Press, ANI)

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
The Biden administration has warned of more sanctions on Russia and North Korea in light of Kim Jong Un's meeting with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. This meeting has raised fears about a potential arms agreement between the two nations, which has been the topic of much discussion for some time. The North Korean leader arrived in Russia on Tuesday for a closely watched summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This visit marks his first foreign trip since the COVID-19 pandemic as during the pandemic, North Korea's borders were sealed.

In a press briefing on Wednesday, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller issued the warning in response to questions about the meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

He said, "And then I want to speak specifically for a second about the idea of North Korea providing weapons to Russia, which I spoke to the other day but I dont think you were here. One, just the overall context, and one thing its important to restate again, that a year and a half ago Vladimir Putin launched this war thinking he was going to restore the glory of the Russian empire, failed in all of his maximalist, imperialist aims, and now a year and a half later, after losing tens of thousands of Russian soldiers and spending billions and billions of dollars, here he is begging Kim Jong-un for help."

"So it says something about the overall context of how this war is going for Russia. And with respect to what any outcomes might be, we have taken a number of entity  actions already to sanction entities that have brokered arms sales between North Korea and Russia, and we wont hesitate to impose additional actions if appropriate," he added as reported by ANI.

In the briefing, Miller also added that there is a "possibility" of weapons flowing two ways between Russia and North Korea, as he underlined how war unleashed by Russia President Vladimir Putin on Ukraine resulted in the loss of billions of dollars as well as thousands of Russian soldiers.

"So were going to watch very closely what comes out of this. I spoke to this somewhat the other day. Were looking at  I will say there are two different  there are possibilities of weapons flowing two different ways here, right? So with respect to either direction, we would watch very closely and be concerned, and will not hesitate to impose sanctions if and when its appropriate," Miller said as reported by ANI.

In the press briefing, Miller also highlighted how "troubling" it is to see the cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

"I would say it is troubling when you see the Russians talking about cooperating with North Korea on programs that would violate UN Security Council resolutions that Russia itself voted for. Now, we obviously dont  we havent seen the full manifestation of this meeting yet or what the full outcomes of this meeting will be, but when you see the two  when you see Kim Jong-un vowing to provide full, unconditional support for Russias so-called sacred fight" to defend its security interests, which of course is not what its doing with respect to the war in Ukraine, that of course is troubling," Miller told the reporters.

Issuing support to Moscow in the ongoing war in Ukraine, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un told President Vladimir Putin that Russia will emerge victorious in the fight to punish the evil forces", adding that he would "always be standing with Russia", according to CNN. He also praised Russia for having stood up against the hegemonic forces" to defend its sovereignty and security  a veiled reference to the US and the West  and said he has expressed the full and unconditional support to all that Russia does in response."

(With inputs from ANI)

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
Four days after the grounding of a luxury ship off the Greenland coast, the local police have launched an investigation into the matter. The police will probe how the luxury cruise got stuck in the mud in a remote area of the Arctic island.

As part of the investigation, police officer on the boat is interviewing the crew and find out about any possible offense that occurred on the boat. Till now, no one has been charged or arrested, the police told Bloomberg.

For last four days, all attempts to free the stuck boat have gone in vain. The Ocean Explorer became stuck at about noon on Monday. Till now, three attempts have been made to free the vessels. All of them failed.

On Wednesday, a fishing boat was used to take out the ship, but the plan didn't work because of high tide. Stranded passengers are safe and are not finding any difficulty. However, one couple on the ship tested positive for COVID-19. The two of them were isolated from the rest of the passengers and are not facing any health complication for now.

The ship has around 200 people on board, including passengers primarily from Australia. Its wedged on the muddy seabed in the Alpefjord, roughly 870 miles (1,400 kilometers) northeast of Greenlands capital, Nuuk. The closes navy vessel is on its way to be used in the rescue operation. However, it has had to reduce its speed due to bad weather. Moreover, it is expected to reach the scene on Friday evening, later than originally expected.

Increasing risk of tourism in Arctic areas

The vessel's plight and delay in response highlights the hazards of tourism in Arctic areas. In such locations, distances are vast and help often days away. However, factors like witnessing majestic scenery of icebergs and the chance to spot rare creatures, such as polar bears, attract growing numbers of tourists.

The ship had at least twice tried to use high tide to float clear on its own. However, the strong suction, built out of the mud consisting of sediment, sand and slit, is keeping the boat intact. In online debate forums, Greenlanders were quick to point out that the green water in the fjord was a certain danger sign of glacier mud that a local seaman would know to avoid.

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
As New England in the United States faces unprecedented weather upheavals, emergency services and residents are in a high state of alert. Hurricane Lee, predicted to cause violent storms in the region soon, looms over states already grappling with tornadoes and catastrophic flooding.

The severity of the situation can be further ascertained from flash flood warnings in Connecticut, and continuous downpours in parts of Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The destruction has led to the evacuation of hundreds, widespread property damage and even the collapse of some structures, Associated Press quoted Leominster Mayor Dean Mazzarella as saying.

Mazzarella expressed concern during a news conference, highlighting that the ground could not absorb any more water. Yet, emergency resources are on standby for whatever comes next.

Matthew Belk, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Boston, described the 10 inches of rain over a six-hour period earlier in the week as a "200-year event". Meanwhile, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey declared a state of emergency, describing the situation as having caused "catastrophic flash flooding and property damage".

As per the National Hurricane Center, a hurricane watch has been issued for portions of Maine, while tropical storm watches are in effect for a wide coastal area covering parts of Rhode Island to Stonington, Maine. In fact, renowned vacation spots like Marthas Vineyard, Nantucket and Block Island are also under the eye of the storm.

On top of this, both Rhode Island and Connecticut recently faced tornadoes that wreaked havoc. These severe weather conditions have disrupted daily life, leading to roof damage, uprooted trees and fallen power lines. Residents have been receiving warnings on their mobiles while emergency sirens echoed through various regions.

Apart from massive infrastructure damage, the weather crisis has had a severe impact on peoples lives. Many homeowners are dealing with flooded basements and damaged property. Community members have been lending each other a helping hand, but the threat isn't over yet.

In some areas, cars were found submerged in newly-formed sinkholes and firefighters had to use inflatable boats for rescuing people stranded in their vehicles.

(With AP inputs)

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sounak Mukhopadhyay Sounak Mukhopadhyay, who also goes by the name Sounak Mukherjee, has been producing digital news since 2012. He's worked for the International Business Times, The Inquisitr, and Moneycontrol in the past. He's also contributed to Free Press Journal and TheRichest with feature articles. He covers news for a wide range of subjects including business, finance, economy, politics and sports. Before working with digital news publications, he worked as a freelance content writer. Read more from this author
Russia's President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday met North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un during a meeting at the Vostochny osmodrome in the far eastern Amur region, Russia. Kim arrived in Russia by private train to the strains of a military band for talks with President Putin - amid warnings from Washington they should not trade weapons.

Making a rare foreign trip and his first since the pandemic, Kim was seen stepping onto a red-carpeted train platform before meeting Natural Resources Minister Alexander Kozlov.

Also read: Kim Jong Un extends full support to Vladimir Putin's just fight in Ukraine

Kim left Pyongyang for Russia on Sunday on board his train. Kim does not travel abroad frequently, making just seven trips away from his country and twice stepping across the inter-Korean border in his 12 years in power. Four of those trips were to the North's main political ally, China.

Also read: Wont hesitate to impose US warns of possible sanctions on Russia, North Korea over arms deal

What Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin discussed. Key points

The two leaders began their meeting with a tour of a Soyuz-2 space rocket launch facility. Putin said that Russia could help North Korea build satellites. "That is why we came here. The leader of North Korea shows great interest in rocket technology. They are trying to develop their space programme," Putin said at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia's Far East.

Kim told Kremlin chief Putin that Russia was fighting a sacred war with the West and that the two countries would together battle with "imperialism". "Russia has risen to a sacred fight to protect its sovereignty and security... against the hegemonic forces," Kim told Putin via a translator.

Kim said his meeting with the Russian president was a "stepping stone" to stronger ties between the two countries.

Putin toasted the "strengthening of future cooperation" with North Korea as he hosted the reclusive country's leader Kim Jong Un.

Kim said he was sure that the Russian army and people would triumph against "evil". "I am deeply convinced that the heroic Russian army and people will brilliantly inherit the tradition of victory, confidently demonstrate invaluable dignity and honour on the fronts of the special military operation," Kim said.

Putin said there were opportunities for bilateral military-technical cooperation, though he added that Russia would comply with its international obligations.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for all countries to respect UN sanctions on North Korea as leader Kim Jong Un made a rare foreign visit to Russia, where President Vladimir Putin pledged his cooperation.

Putin has accepted an invitation to visit North Korea from its leader Kim Jong Un. The Russian president reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history and tradition of the Russia-DPRK friendship.

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
LONDON : Russia has stepped up imports of the aluminium feedstock alumina from India in recent months to supply its vast Siberian plants, a move that diversifies the sanctions-hit country's supply, helps reduce dependence on China and cuts costs.

After invading Ukraine, the world's second biggest producer of aluminium lost two crucial sources of alumina, used to make aluminium metal, as a refinery in Ukraine suspended production and Australia banned supplies to Russia.

While Russia and China are on friendly terms, aluminium production in China is rising, leaving less price flexibility for Russia to buy alumina.

Russia's Rusal, the world's largest aluminium producer outside China, needs to fill the gap left by suspended supplies to sustain domestic production while aiming to protect its margins against a weaker aluminium price backdrop.

The company's own alumina assets in Russia, Ireland, Jamaica and Guinea supply 70% of its needs, or 5.5 million metric tons.

"After deliveries from Ukraine and Australia were lost, Rusal replaced it with increased alumina imports from China and other refineries in Asia, but it came at a considerable cost," Ami Shivkar at WoodMac said.

Russia became the largest buyer of alumina from China last year. Rusal's cost of purchasing alumina jumped by $1.1 billion to $1.8 billion in 2022 as it had to pay more for the raw material and for delivery.

Rusal has since diversified by securing alumina supplies from India and Kazakhstan.

"We can already say that the company's total alumina costs will decrease in 2023 compared to 2022," Rusal told Reuters.

Russia was the second largest buyer of Indian alumina in the first half of this year, Indian customs data show, with India exporting 189,379 metric tons to Russia. There were no exports in the same period of 2022.

"Russia encountered difficulties in securing alumina from developed nations and forced it to switch to India," an Indian industry official, who declined to be named, told Reuters.

India's state-run National Aluminium Co is the primary supplier of alumina to Russia, the official said.

Nalco did not respond Reuters' request for comment.

Russia is expected to buy more than 350,000 tonnes of alumina from India in 2023, the official said. The estimate is broadly in line with Rusal's own calculations, it told Reuters.

China remains the largest third-party supplier of alumina to Russia with shipments of 485,160 tons in January-June, but it has less alumina to offer this year due to rising domestic aluminium production.

Aluminium of Kazakhstan, which produces 1.3 million tons of alumina a year, plans to reduce supplies to Russia by 5% in 2023 as it also needs more product for itself, its owner Eurasian Resources Group told Reuters.

The company did not say how much alumina it sends to Russia, however CRU consultancy estimates Kazakh deliveries to Russia at around 40,000-70,000 tons per month.

Rusal needs to buy about 2.5 million tons of alumina a year from outside its own system.

Its Aughinish refinery in Ireland which produces 1.6 million tonnes a year, sends only 40% of its production to Russia. The remainder goes to Europe.

Jamaica supplied 190,070 tons of alumina to Russia in the first half of 2023, the Jamaica Bauxite Institute told Reuters.

Russian alumina purchases have been too small to affect the global market, estimated at 60 million tonnes outside China and dominated by Australia.

However, the need to import alumina means Rusal will rely on the price and the supply-demand balance of the global alumina market for at least five years.

"Despite the fact that we were able to restructure our raw material supply chains in time, we still feel significant dependence on imported alumina," Rusal said.

"To mitigate the risks ..., we have decided to consider a project to build a plant in Russia."

Rusal said in June it would build a $4.8 billion plant to make alumina in a Russian Baltic Sea port. The first phase of production with annual capacity of up to 2.4 million tons will be commissioned by the end of 2028.

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
In brighter news today, "Earth is now well outside of the safe operating space for humanity," says a report in the journal Science Advances.

According to the article, there are nine connected systems, or "planetary boundaries" (e.g., climate change, biodiversity, and freshwater and land use), that need to stay in balance in order for the earth to remain human-friendly. And 29 scientists from eight countries have determined that six of these boundaries have been "transgressed."

"We are in very bad shape," said John Rockstrom, the study's co-author.

From AP News:

Earth's climate, biodiversity, land, freshwater, nutrient pollution and "novel" chemicals (human-made compounds like microplastics and nuclear waste) are all out of whack, a group of international scientists said in Wednesday's journal Science Advances. Only the acidity of the oceans, the health of the air and the ozone layer are within the boundaries considered safe, and both ocean and air pollution are heading in the wrong direction, the study said. These boundaries "determine the fate of the planet," said Rockstrom, a climate scientist. The nine factors have been "scientifically well established" by numerous outside studies, he said. If Earth can manage these nine factors, Earth could be relatively safe. But it's not, he said.  The simulations showed "that one of the most powerful means that humanity has at its disposal to combat climate change" is cleaning up its land and saving forests, the study said. Returning forests to late 20th century levels would provide substantial natural sinks to store carbon dioxide instead of the air, where it traps heat, the study said. University of Michigan environmental studies dean Jonathan Overpeck, who wasn't part of the study, called the study "deeply troubling in its implications for the planet and people should be worried."

And from CNN:
A day after passing a controversial remark against India and China on the intellectual potential of the citizens of the two countries, Ukraine has now softened its tone and given a clarification on Thursday.

Mykhailo Podolyaka, Adviser to the Head of the Office of the Ukraine President Volodymr Zelenskyy on Thursday said that India, China, and Turkey are "justified" in playing bigger roles in the world.

Also read: Ukrainian official says India has 'weak intellectual potential, 'doesn't fully understand...'

Of course, Turkey, India, China, and other regional powers are increasingly and clearly justified in claiming global roles in the modern world - and there are all the reasons for this: historical, economic, cultural, scientific, and political. And these roles have long been much more extensive than Russias. But the global world is much broader than even the most thoughtful regional national interests," Podolyak said.

Earlier, snubbing the New Delhi G20 Summit, Ukraine's foreign ministry said, "nothing to be proud of".

His statement calling India and China "low intellectual potential" sparked controversy internationally on Wednesday. Podolyak also blamed Russia for weakening the global world by trying to break international law".

Podolyak yesterday said, Whats the problem with China, India, etc. - they are not able to analyze the consequences of their actions - these countries have low intellectual potential, unfortunately. Yes, they invest in science. Yes, India has launched a lunar rover recently which is now trekking on the surface of the Moon, but that does not indicate that this country fully comprehends what the modern world is about".

His statement created a flutter worldwide and critical remarks from Indians and people from other parts of the developing world online.

During the G20 Summit, the Ukraine Foreign Ministry pointed out that the New Delhi declaration did not mention Russia as the violator of its sovereignty. A statement was issued at that time by Oleg Nikolenko, Spokesperson of Ukraines Ministry of Foreign Affairs which stated, "In terms of Russias aggression against Ukraine, G20 has nothing to be proud of".

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
As India concludes its successful hosting of the 18th G20 Leaders' Summit, voices from Pakistan offer commendation for India's organisation of the global event. Held in the capital's high-tech Bharat Mandapam at Pragati Maidan on September 9-10, the summit has been hailed as a triumph, not just domestically but also among individuals across the border.

The high-level assembly saw participation from over 30 countries, including heads of state and international delegates. One of the summit's main outcomes was the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration, a comprehensive document touching upon several global issues. Also Read: G20 meet on financial inclusion to kick off in Mumbai today The summit also alluded to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis, though it stopped short of direct condemnation.

From a Karachi resident's perspective, India's effective hosting of the summit signals not only an honour for the nation but also a potentially significant economic boost. This sentiment contradicts the usual rivalry between the neighbouring countries and acknowledges India's growing importance on the world stage.

When heads of the top 20 countries visit a country, it is an honour for that nation. Indian economy will derive many benefits out of it (G20)," a Pakistani local told ANI.
At the end of June, a historic summit on international solidarity concluded the Paris Agenda for People and the Planet. African leaders amplified this dynamic by adopting the Nairobi Declaration during the first Africa Climate Summit in Kenya. The G20 summit in New Delhi, which accepted the African Union as a full-fledged group member in a historic decision, pushed this agenda forward. In Paris, we asked for a world where poverty is eliminated, the health of our planet is preserved and vulnerable countries are better equipped to face the crises that arise from climate change and conflicts. To meet these goals, we must leverage all sources of finance and remain united. To prevent fragmentation, governance of the international financial architecture must be transformed to make it more efficient, inclusive, equitable and fit for todays world.

The transformative changes we have proposed should benefit all vulnerable developing countries in all regions. To this end, we have identified four principles that will help guide the way forward:

One, no country should have to choose between fighting poverty and fighting to protect and preserve the planet.

Two, facing different needs, countries may need to pursue diverse transition paths while coming together to meet the goals of the 2015 Paris climate agreement. This is why we are accelerating Just Energy Transition Partnerships and Country Packages for Forest, Climate and Nature.

Three, more financial resources are needed to support vulnerable economies, lifting their populations out of poverty while protecting the planet.

Four, meeting todays global challenges, from achieving net-zero greenhouse-gas emissions to reducing inequality, will depend on scaling up the use of private capital flows to emerging and developing economies.

To back the concrete measures that were agreed upon or advanced in global forums, the world will need a strong financial stimulus. Fortunately, we have already achieved the target of $100 billion worth of special drawing rights (SDRs, the International Monetary Funds unit of account) or equivalent contributions to be channelled to the worlds most vulnerable countries, especially in Africa. Additional pledges would help. Governments able to provide further SDR rechannelling mechanisms should do so and deliver on their pledges swiftly.

There is a likelihood that we will reach our target of $100 billion of climate finance this year as well. We will closely monitor this target and seek to ensure that the most vulnerable countries secure access to their fair share.

But we need to be more efficient in using this capital. Each dollar of lending by multilateral development banks (MDBs) should be complemented by at least one dollar of private finance. On that basis, we expect them to leverage at least an additional $100 billion of private money each year in developing and emerging economies.

We also expect an overall increase of $200 billion in MDBs lending capacity over the next ten years by optimizing their balance sheets and enabling them to take more risks. If the reforms to the MDBs now being discussed are implemented, these institutions may need more capital. We reaffirm the importance of carrying out major infrastructure projects in Africa, and we want to continue our collaboration in this area.

There is much work to be done on multiple fronts. We must improve the timeliness and predictability of the debt restructuring coordination mechanism for low-income countries (the G20s Common Framework for Debt Treatments) and discuss extending it to lower-middle-income countries. We also need to accelerate debt suspension when needed, including to increase fiscal space for countries that are in debt distress.

The Common Framework has already delivered for Chad and Zambia and it can and must be used on a larger scale. Countries must support each other when one is hit by a disaster. That calls for specific tools to strengthen their resilience, including a climate-crisis clause in debt contracts.

All this is no doubt an ambitious agenda. All financial institutions and actors will need to work together to fulfil it. Part of this cooperative effort must involve coordinating the MDBs and public development banks in the Finance in Common global network of development banks.

Cooperation on the energy transition can be achieved through the Climate Club, which the G7 established in order to fulfil the Paris climate agreement.

New avenues for international taxation will also need to be found in order to meet our climate commitments. Here, governments will need to clamp down on financial flows that escape legitimate tax systems.

Beyond improved tax enforcement, developing countries will need fair partnerships that enable them to generate added value by processing raw materials and critical minerals locally, and that reinforce our commitment to strengthen health-care and food infrastructure.

An ambitious financial replenishment of the International Development Association, a deepening of the IMFs Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility, and increased funding for the World Bank and IMFs other concessional facilities could also play a big part in helping the worlds poorest countries. Here, it is clear that including climate vulnerability in the World Bank and IMFs mission will enable more investment in projects that assist poor countries in combating climate change. Moreover, we must create a new international finance facility for forests to pay for ecosystem services. It will also be necessary to mitigate or reduce the risks, in particular foreign-exchange risks, of such investments.

To ensure that international commitments translate into concrete achievements, we have set up a joint working committee including international and regional organizations, countries, and civil societies to follow this roadmap.

After the G20 meet, it is clear that world leaders are serious about delivering on the Paris Agenda and One Earth, One Family, One Future."

This commentary is also signed by: Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez (Spain and EU Presidency); President Hakainde Hichilema (Zambia); President William Ruto (Kenya); President Macky Sall (Senegal); Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (Ethiopia); President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi (Egypt); President Patrice Talon (Benin); and Prime Minister Mia Mottley (Barbados). 2023/project syndicate

Azali Assoumani, Emmanuel Macron & Bola Tinubu are, respectively, President of the Comoros and Chairperson of the African Union, President of France and President of Nigeria.
PM Narendra Modi on Thursday launched several rail sector projects in Chhattisgarhs Raigarh and laid the foundation stone of 50-bed each 'critical care blocks' to be built in nine districts at the function, while attacking the Congress government in the state. PM Modi attacked the UPA government in the country over its guarantee to empower the poor, saying if it had fulfilled its promise, toh aaj Modi ko itni mehnat nahi karni padhti [then Modi wouldnt have to work this hard today].

Speaking at the function, PM Modi said, Congress gave a guarantee of empowering the poor of the country... If Congress had fulfilled its guarantee, toh aaj Modi ko itni mehnat nahi karni padhti...Modi had guaranteed that he would empower the poor of the country and today you are seeing the results. In just 5 years, 13.5 crore people in the country have come out of poverty. This happened because the BJP government made schemes in the interest of the poor." PM Modi also attacked the corruption" within the Congress government in the state. He said, The mineral wealth of Chhattisgarh is being used as Congress' ATM. False propaganda and rampant corruption are the hallmarks of the Congress government in Chhattisgarh. The BJP government of Delhi is leaving no stone unturned for the development of Chhattisgarh. But the Congress government here is not engaged in development work but only in empty talk and claims."

Speaking about the Naxalite attacks in the state, PM Modi hailed his government saying, "There was a time when Chhattisgarh was known only for Naxalite attacks and violence. After the efforts of the BJP government, today Chhattisgarh is being recognised because of the development work done here."

PM Narendra Modi also said that the Congress government in Chhattisgarh indulged in corruption in cow dung procurement scheme. PM Modi also targeted the Bhupesh Baghel-led government in Chhattisgarh, saying it lagged in welfare of the poor but was ahead in corruption.

Today, world's major institutions are talking about learning from India's success," Modi said. There is a festive atmosphere in the entire country these days," Modi said, referring to the Chandrayaan mission and G20 Summit.

(With agency inputs)

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday elaborately spoke about the controversy surrounding the Sanatana Dharma remark made by Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin. Addressing a massive gathering at Bina in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, PM Modi said that the INDIA alliance has a hidden agenda" to attack and end the Sanatana Dharma culture.

Unleashing a no holds barred attack on the Opposition bloc  the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA)  PM Narendra Modi called it an INDI alliance" that does not have a leader".

At a time when Bharat is emerging as a world leader at global forums, some parties are trying to divide the country and its people. These people came together to form an INDI alliance. Some people are calling it a ghamndiya (arrogant) alliance. They dont have a leader yet and there is a lot of suspense on who would lead them going into the Lok Sabha elections next year. They are working with a hidden agenda, which is to attack India's culture," PM Modi said.

PM Modi also alleged that in its third meeting, the Opposition bloc adopted a resolution to end the Sanatana culture" in the country.

The prime minister said, This INDI-Alliance adopted a resolution to end our 'Sanatana' culture. They are bent on destroying the ideologies, cultures and traditions that have kept the country and our people together for centuries."

PM Modi's attack on the Opposition came a few days after CM MK Stalin's son, Udhayanidhi Stalin, said that Sanatana Dharma is incompatible with the concept of social justice and should be eliminated." Sanatana is like malaria and dengue and so it must be eradicated and not opposed," Udhayanidhi Stalin said.

PM Modi addressed the meeting after laying the foundation for several projects worth more than 50,700 crores, including the 'Petrochemical Complex' at Bina Refinery and ten new industrial projects across Madhya Pradesh.

The 10 projects for which he laid the foundation stone include a Power and Renewable Energy Manufacturing Zone in the Narmadapuram district; two IT parks in Indore; a Mega Industrial Park in Ratlam; and six new industrial areas across the state.

(With agency inputs)

"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels  Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
This week, reports and bizarre images of a group of five mummy-like bodies from Peru that have three-fingered hands led to claims by some that the mummies are not human  and may be aliens.

Clearly, they aren't aliens. But even so, what gives? Are they even real mummies?

Live Science has found that some of these mummies may represent a combination of the looting and manipulation of real human mummy parts.

One of the mummies "looks like a typical Nazca mummy, in the flexed, seated position," said Andrew Nelson, a professor of anthropology at the University of Western Ontario, in London, Canada. (The Nazca people were an ancient culture in Peru who bundled up their mummies in textiles and constructed the sprawling geoglyphs called the Nazca lines.)

Grotesquely, the hands and feet seen on this mummy, and possibly the others, may also be parts of real human mummies that have been manipulated by forgers, the white coating added afterward to hide the manipulations, said Nelson, who is not involved with research on the mummies. [Photos: The Amazing Mummies of Peru and Egypt]

A number of other researchers also believe that real human mummy parts were used to create these fakes. A dozen Peruvian mummy researchers have put out a statement condemning the practice saying that it "has violated numerous national and international norms."

One of the researchers who signed the statement told Live Science that "I particularly find repulsive that anyone would [dare] to dehumanize deceased human bodies. You can't take away the condition of human to a human being!" said Guido Lombardi a professor of forensic sciences at Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia.

According to Jose Jaime Maussan Flota, who is a journalist working with researchers studying these mummies, members of the team pay Mario an undisclosed sum to view the mummies, take samples of them and conduct X-rays and CT scans on them.

Looted in Nazca

The mummies were supposedly discovered in 2015 by tomb robbers working in the Nazca region, an area where the ancient Nazca culture flourished. The mummies come from "a group of 'huaqueros,' or archaeological treasure hunters, from the city of Palpa," said Thierry Jamin, president of the Inkari-Cusco institute. Jamin is involved with research on the mummies and refers to the head of this looting group as Mario.

"Mario is a treasure hunter. He is a delinquent, who is well known to the police services of the Nazca region. It [his group] has looted archaeological sites on the Peruvian coast for more than 20 years. And justice does not do much to stop him," Jamin said, claiming that he informed Peru's Ministry of Culture about Mario's activities, but has not heard back from the ministry. Officials from the Ministry of Culture did not return requests for comment from Live Science.

Mysterious researcher

Videos showing investigations of the mummies have appeared on the sites gaia.com and the-alien-project.com. The lead researcher for the group studying the mummies, a man named Konstantin Korotkov, gave an interview recently in Russian for the Russian Mir 24 TV station. The news site RT (formerly Russia Today) claims that Korotkov said that the mummies have 23 pairs of chromosomes (like a human), but their anatomy looks non-human. "They [the mummies] could be extraterrestrials or bio robots," RT quotes Korotkov as saying. In a video on gaia.com, Korotkov claims that radiocarbon-dating results show that one of the mummies (the same one that Nelson says looks like it was made with parts from a Nazca mummy) dates back around 1,700 years, a time when the Nazca culture was flourishing.

Korotkov did not reply to requests for comment and the university gaia.com claims he is affiliated with (St. Petersburg University in Russia) shows no record of him online. Officials at the university did not reply to requests for comment.

Another affiliation given in the media for Korotkov  the National Research University in St. Petersburg  doesn't seem to exist.

The National Research University Higher School of Economics has a campus in St. Petersburg  but again no mention of Korotkov on that university's website and officials with the university did not return requests for comment. Korotkov's personal website sells a product called Bio-Well that he claims can detect "human light." He makes no mention on his website of being a professor at St. Petersburg University in Russia or a National Research University in St. Petersburg.

Mummy looting

While the three-fingered mummies clearly seem to be fakes of some kind, scientists have discovered numerous mummified remains in Peru, including 171 mummies from tombs excavated near the site of Tenahaha, which date back around 1,200 years. [Photos: Hundreds of Mummies Found in Peru]

While some mummies in Peru have been discovered by scientists, others, such as the ones that may have been used to create these "aliens," are stolen by looters, who are known to ransack ancient Peruvian tombs before archaeologists are able to scientifically excavate them. The United States has restricted the import of artifacts from Peru in an attempt to stem the tide of looting.

While Mario and his gang may still be pillaging tombs, the situation has been improving, said Ann Peters, a consulting scholar at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.

"The protection of archaeological sites has greatly improved in the last decade with the establishment of legal requirements for environmental and heritage impact studies, the establishment of the Ministry of Culture and the employment of more professional archaeologists," Peters said. "However, some looters and traffickers in antiquities still exist in Peru, as well as in the United States and other countries."

Originally published on Live Science.
If you find yourself camping or ready to scale a wall in the wilderness of British Columbia's Squamish district and, er, nature calls, don't fret. And don't leave your poop in a crag, either. The Squamish Access Society and BC Parks are providing single-use poop bags that are far more high-tech than typical dog-do bags. Waste Alleviating Gel (WAG) bags are sturdy and loaded with special powder that turns liquid into gel.

From CBC:

Katy Holm, one of the owners of Climb On [a sponsor of the program] was careful not to blame the rock climbing community for the general issue with human waste in the Squamish area, saying much of it is associated with people camping or living in their vehicles, and the broader recreational popularity of the region[]

She said the bags aren't anything like the flimsy little bags people use to pick up their pets' poop.

"It's totally robust. You don't have a fear that it's going to explode or anything. You can roll it up, there's no smell. It doesn't feel dirty at all," said Holm.
Missed out on summer travel? Airline tickets will be cheaper in the fall
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.
Another major energy provider in the Irish market has confirmed it is reducing its cost for gas and electricity customers in the coming months.

Pay-as-you-go energy provider PrepayPower has announced that its gas unit prices will reduce by 13.5% with its electricity unit prices falling by 12.8% from November 1.

The company said that based on typical usage patterns, the reduction will mean a saving of approximately 435 a year for a typical dual fuel customer.

A typical electricity customer will save 223 in a year in electricity costs from the latest cut, according to the company.

'She was a bright, bubbly, forever beautiful young girl': Heartbreaking scenes as mourners pay final respects to young Longford woman A young Longford woman who died suddenly this week has been remembered as a bright, bubbly, forever beautiful young girl and someone who could light up a room as soon as she entered it.

PrepayPower has more than 180,000 customers and is the largest provider of pay-as-you-go energy in the Irish market.

"We are delighted to announce these price reductions for our customers today," a spokesman for PrepayPower said.

"Our customers will continue to benefit from standard rates that are amongst the lowest in the market, significantly cheaper than the standard rates from many bill pay suppliers," the spokesperson added.

Taoiaseach Leo Varadkar told energy companies earlier this week that they must go further to reduce prices in future billing cycles.

Longford's commercial vacancy rates rise The commercial vacancy rate in Longford stood at 15.1% in June 2023, according to the latest GeoDirectory Commercial Buildings Report.

The Taoiseach and Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan met with Irelands four largest energy retailers  SSE Electricity, Bord Gais Energy, Energia and Electric Ireland  on Tuesday to express concern at persistently high energy prices.

Last week, SSE Airtricity announced that it would cut its electricity prices by 12% and gas prices by 10% from November 1, with Pinergy, Energia and Electric Ireland also announcing cuts.

Following the meeting on Tuesday, the Taoiseach said he indicated that these cuts should go further.
ALDI Ireland has submitted a planning application to Longford County Council for a new 6.8 million store located in Granard.

Once all planning hoops have been negotiated, ALDI aims to open the store in the summer of 2025, making it the second ALDI store to open in Longford since 2000.

It is expected that the new Granard store will create up to 30 permanent jobs.

Commenting last Thursday, Colin Breslin, Managing Director of Buying and Services, ALDI Ireland said: Were delighted to submit our plans for a store in Granard and to commit to further investment in county Longford.

Mr Breslin added, Every new ALDI store brings greater choice, quality, and value to shoppers, which during a cost-of-living crisis, is arguably more important now than ever before.

The proposed store development will consist of the demolition of the existing building, associated car park and boundary walls on lands on the western side of Barrack Lane and south of Church Quarter.

If approved, the 1,315sqm store will feature ALDIs award-winning Project Fresh layout.

There will also be 120 car parking spaces available for customers and 13 bike parking spaces.

An ALDI spokesperson said they will also be investing in the future of Granard through the provision of four electric vehicle charging points, while the store will be powered by 100% green electricity and will feature 245 solar panels on the roof.

Also included in Granard plan is vehicular / pedestrian access from Barrack Lane and a single storey ESB substation and switchroom c. 21 sqm; all landscaping, a loading bay at northern elevation, lighting, boundary treatments, engineering and site development works.

ALDI partners with three food producers in Longford including Pat the Baker.

In 2022, ALDI sourced 4.7 million of locally produced food and drink from county Longford based suppliers.

To date, ALDIs Longford store has donated over 28,000 meals to local charities through FoodCloud, saving the charities nearly 36,000.

The store is also part of ALDIs Community Grants network, with Longford Town Mens Shed one of the local charities that have availed of the 500 bursary grant in recent years.

The proposed Granard store is part of a 33.6 million investment in four Midlands counties over the next two years.

As part of the companys overall growth and development strategy in Ireland, ALDI has submitted planning applications to construct four new stores across the Midlands, at Granard, Tullamore (Offaly), Moate (Westmeath) and Kilcock (Kildare).

If approved, the proposed stores would all open by 2025, creating 120 permanent jobs across the region, with 200 jobs supported during the construction phase.

Longford planners are set to adjudicate and announce their decision on the plans for the Granard store by October 31 next, with the closing date for submissions on the application being October 10.

Meanwhile, a report, compiled by Dublin City University's (DCUs) Professor Emeritus of Economics, Anthony Foley, and commissioned by ALDI, found that grocery retail consumers across Ireland are losing out on savings of 78,333 every month due to delays in planning appeal decisions.

The Financial Impact of Irelands Planning System Delays on Irish Consumers, details that of the sixteen appeals of ALDI planning applications made to An Bord Pleanala over the five-year period, thirteen experienced decision delays resulting in total savings forgone to consumers of almost 10 million.
One of the complainants who had Colorado Congressperson Lauren Boebert tossed from a theatrical performance of "Beetlejuice" was pregnant. The pregnant woman repeatedly asked Boe-Boe to stop vaping and was rebuffed. It is completely unsurprising that Boebert is this gigantic jerk.

RawStory:

But according to reporting in the Denver Post, Boebert was kicked out of a Beetlejuice performance at Denver's Buell Theater on Sunday, September 10. And a new report reveals she was asked to leave after she refused to quit vaping near a pregnant woman.

The Post reports that three attendees, including the woman, complained about Boebert. The woman alleged that when she asked the MAGA congresswoman to quit vaping, she refused. Boebert's office has denied that allegation.

HuffPost's Josephine Harvey notes, "The woman, who said she did not recognize Boebert, told the Post she asked the lawmaker to stop vaping, but the congresswoman simply said 'no.' She said Boebert was singing along loudly with her hands in the air and took multiple long videos during the first half of the performance. The woman made a complaint during intermission. When she returned to her seat with her husband, Boebert called her a 'sad and miserable person,' she said."
Local News

By Long Island Published: September 14 2023

Missing Karla Luna, 15, was last seen near her Uniondale home.

The Missing Person Squad reports the details of a Missing Juvenile that occurred at 10:30pm on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 in Uniondale and reported to Police the same day.

According to Detectives, Missing Karla Luna, 15, was last seen near her Uniondale home; she is described as a female Hispanic, approximately 55, 120lbs., brown eyes, black hair, braces on her teeth and was last seen wearing a black t-shirt and gray colored pajama pants. Her destination is unknown.

Detectives request anyone with information regarding the above listed Missing Juvenile to contact the Nassau County Missing Persons Squad at 516-573-7347 or to call 911.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: September 14 2023

Its my honor today to recognize Amy Juchatz for her work in remediating toxic sites in Suffolk County, said Legislator Anker.

At arecent General Legislature Meeting, Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker honored Amy Juchatz with a proclamation signed by all 17 Suffolk County Legislators for her hard work and service to the county. Amy worked for the county for twenty-three years in the role that eventually became Environmental Toxicologist and served as the Co-Chair of the Suffolk County Cancer Prevention and Health Promotion Coalition.

Its my honor today to recognize Amy Juchatz for her work in remediating toxic sites in Suffolk County, said Legislator Anker. Amy has always been an advocate for Suffolk residents, working to keep us safe by monitoring health risks and keeping us informed. Thank you Amy for your years of service.

As Environmental Toxicologist, Amy was responsible for environmental health risk assessment activities in Suffolk County and evaluating exposures to chemicals found in the environment. Since 2004, Amy has also served as the Co-Chair of the Suffolk County Cancer Prevention and Health Promotion Coalition, which works to educate the public and share actionable information on issues relating to the prevention of chronic diseases, such as cancer.

Amy has also gone above and beyond in the community, serving on the New York State Cancer Detection and Education Program Advisory Council, the Stony Brook Cancer Center Citizens Advisory Council, the New York State Environmental Biomonitoring Program External Advisory Committee and the Adelphi University Master of Public Health Advisory Committee.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: September 14 2023

Veterans will visit World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War Memorials, Arlington National Cemetery, the Air Force Memorial, and Iwo Jima Memorial.

Honor Flight Long Island (HFLI), the iconic volunteer-run Veterans organization, proudly announces that our Fall Flight to Washington, D.C. is scheduled for Friday, September 29, 2023. The flight will take 46 United States Veterans to visit their military memorials, meet with service branch representatives, commiserate with fellow Veterans and exchange stories. Honor Flights mission is to honor fellow Long Islanders who served in the United States Armed Forces to preserve our freedoms, by providing free, one-day trips so Veterans can visit D.C.

According to Bill Jones, HFLI President, West Point 1972 Graduate and U.S. Army Veteran, This special flight includes 42 Vietnam War Veterans who will receive long overdue recognition and thanks for their service, Jones said. Theyll be accompanied on this flight by 4 elder comrades - 1 World War II Veteran and 3 Korean War Veterans. What this flight really represents is a Big Hug to all our Veterans from Honor Flight, their families and supporters, who make such flights possible, Jones added. (Editors: See attached file  Sep 29 Vets for Rob  for background on the Veterans and/or contact Bill Jones for additional quotations at (631) 276-8825 or ddbeach5@gmail.com.)

Thanks to HFLI, these 46 Veterans will take a free, early-morning Southwest flight to Washington, D.C. Departing from MacArthur Airport at 8:15 a.m., Veterans and their Guardians will visit World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War Memorials, Arlington National Cemetery for a Changing of the Guard, the Air Force Memorial and Iwo Jima Memorial. Theyll return to MacArthur later that evening at 10:55 p.m. for a rousing welcome home by the Saffron United Pipe Band, plus thunderous applause from hundreds of family and supporters!

HFLI is accepting applications from Veterans of World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War. Long Island Veterans are encouraged to sign up by going to our website www.honorflightlongisland.org. Its important to submit an application, as that will ensure placement on our list. Veterans fly for free, thanks to donations from across Long Island. They are accompanied by Guardians, able-bodied volunteers who donate $400 (tax deductible) to offset their travel costs. If there is no family member to act as a Guardian, Honor Flight has volunteers ready to step up for the privilege of escorting our heroes to their memorials. Questions can be answered by calling Jamie Bowden at (631) 702-2423 or by emailing Jamie at JBowden@southamptontownny.gov .

About Honor Flight Network

The Honor Flight Network was formed in 2005 with a mission of honoring our nations World War II Veterans by flying them to visit the Washington, D.C. WWII Memorial dedicated in 2004. The Honor Flight Network is currently comprised of over 130 hubs throughout the country dedicated to carrying out the Honor Flight mission. In addition to WWII Veterans, the organization now transports those who served in the Korean War, Vietnam War, later conflicts and in special cases of terminal illness or injury, Veterans from more recent service eras. Since 2005, the Honor Flight Network has taken more than 250,000 Veterans to Washington, D.C. Since 2007, Honor Flight Long Island has flown over 1,900 Veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit their military memorials. For more information, visit honorflight.org.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: September 14 2023

This month, free screenings will be held on September 19 and 20 at Stony Brook offices in Suffolk County.

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Early detection is key to long-term survival rates of prostate cancer, which is why Stony Brook Medicines Department of Urology and Stony Brook Cancer Center offers free Prostate Cancer Screenings throughout the year, as part of our larger Prostate Care Program. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in American men. Approximately 1 in 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and 1 in 41 men will die of the disease. As you get older, your risk increases.

Men aged 45-75 years, African American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer may benefit from early screenings. In most cases, prostate cancer has no symptoms and is usually detected through a screening.

This month, free screenings will be held on September 19 and 20 at Stony Brook offices in Suffolk County. Full details can be found below.

Free Prostate Cancer Screenings

Tuesday, September 19, 2023  6 to 7:30 pm

Stony Brook Medicines Advanced Specialty Care at Commack

500 Commack Road, Suite 201B, Commack, NY 11725

Wednesday, September 20, 2023  2 to 5 pm

Stony Brook Urology

24 Research Way, Suite 500

East Setauket, NY 11733

(In collaboration with New York State Senator Anthony H. Palumbo's Office.)

Appointments are strongly recommended. Insurance is not required. To make an appointment, call (631) 216-9181.

For more information about Stony Brook Medicines Prostate Care Program, visit stonybrook.info/prostatecareprogram.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: September 14 2023

New Signs and Pavement Markings Enhance Safety Along Some of Long Islands Busiest Highways.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a series of new safety enhancements along several Long Island highways to deter wrong-way driving and help prevent trucks and other over-height vehicles from striking parkway overpasses. Thousands of new, highly reflective signs and pavement markings have been installed at more than 700 select locations to improve driver awareness and enhance safety on some of the busiest highways in Nassau and Suffolk counties. The new measures meet or exceed all state and federal highway standards for safety.

Wrong-way drivers and over-height vehicles pose obvious safety hazards that can cause unspeakable tragedies and lead to unnecessary delays and hardships for motorists, Governor Hochul said. With these new signs and pavement markings, we are providing hard-to-ignore warnings that will help deter wrong-way drivers and over-height trucks to protect the safety of their fellow motorists.

The new safety enhancements include more than 3,600 new Wrong Way and Do Not Enter signs that have been installed at 422 parkway, expressway, and highway ramps to discourage wrong-way drivers from entering high speed highways, expressways, and parkways on Long Island. Facing against normal traffic flow will be one Do Not Enter sign followed by four Wrong Way signs. The signposts all have red reflective strips to increase their visibility. Additional pavement markings and reflectors in the pavement have also been installed on the ramps to alert wayward drivers.

To thwart bridge hits, new highly reflective advance warning signs and signs have been installed at 282 locations on the Southern, Northern, Meadowbrook, Wantagh, Bethpage, Heckscher, Sagtikos, and Sunken Meadow State Parkways and the Robert Moses Causeway. They display each bridges height and feature reflectors on the signposts. The new signs are approximately 75 percent larger than previous signs and provide ample warning to help truckers avoid colliding with the overpass.

Additionally, pavement markings warning of Low Bridge Clearance are also being installed at 17 targeted parkway locations to further increase awareness

Long Islands state parkways were constructed in the mid-20th century with low stone arch bridges and were intended to only accommodate passenger vehicles. But over the past eight decades, their purpose has evolved from scenic roads for the enjoyment of state park visitors to major commuting routes connecting suburban communities to New York City.

All too often, trucks and other over-height vehicles - unaware of the state parkway height restrictions  have entered the parkways and struck the overpasses, causing traffic backups and damage to highway infrastructure.

The new signs and pavement markings complement 16 over height vehicle detectors in place selected at ramps where trucks have been known to frequently enter parkways. This technology triggers a warning sign to notify the trucks driver and alerts the State Department of Transportation's regional traffic management center.

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, Safety is always the top priority of the Department of Transportation and these new signs and pavement markings will help us combat the dangerous instances of wrong-way driving and bridge strikes on Long Island roadways. However, safety is everyones responsibility. While we remain committed to doing all we can to enhance the safety of our roadways, we need motorists to obey the rules of the road, drive responsibly and remain alert at all times.

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said, Suffolk County is committed to ensuring our roadways are as safe as possible and we have implemented various initiatives and strategies that help keep drivers safe. I applaud Governor Hochul and New York State for taking additional proactive measures to reduce and prevent serious injuries and fatal crashes on Long Island.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said, "The important safety enhancements announced by Governor Hochul today will help make our highways safer for the hundreds of thousands of Nassau County Motorists who use them every day."

For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit www.511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

Motorists are urged to plan accordingly and drive responsibly in work zones. Fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone. Convictions of two or more speeding violations in a work zone could result in the suspension of an individuals driver license.

Follow NYSDOT on Twitter at @NYSDOT and @NYSDOTLI. Find us on Facebook at Facebook.com/NYSDOT.
Lagging far behind Trump in the Republican primary polls, Ron DeSantis is doubling down on extremist rhetoric to get attentionand putting his office as Florida governor to use in making it matter. His administration is now telling Floridians not to get covid vaccines unless they are seniors.

"What I have directed our department to do is to provide guidance that really recommends and advises against the use of these mRNA Covid-19 vaccines for anyone under 65," the state surgeon general, Dr. Joseph Ladapo, said at an online panel hosted by DeSantis on Wednesday. The statement ignores the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommendations: The agency said Tuesday that everyone ages 6 months and up who has not gotten a Covid shot within the last two months should get a new booster, which targets a subvariant of omicron called XBB.1.5.  DeSantis originally supported Covid shots, noting in July 2021 that "these vaccines are saving lives." Since then, however, he has built his administration's health care platform around the notion that Covid vaccines are unsafe and unproven  a stance not supported by scientific consensus.

It's the DeSantis pudding fingers thing: "unempathetic" doesn't approach how off he is. Trump can at least work a crowd, which shows evidence that he can functionally identify with people's fears and needs. DeSantis, though, has the air of a man who would "unplug your life support to charge his phone," as Peggy Noonan put itand I think even the people this message is aimed at, even those who like it when it's delivered with Trump's jocular malice, will feel their skin tighten a bit seeing DeSantis and his creepy cronies intoning it in their joyless nasal whines. The death rates are immaterial.
(Alliance News) - Smith & Nephew PLC on Thursday announced that BT Group PLC's chief financial officer, Simon Lowth, will join the board as independent non-executive director on January 1.

Prior to BT, Lowth was CFO of BG Group - now part of Shell PLC - AstraZeneca PLC, and Scottish Power.

In addition, Jez Maiden, who retired as finance director at Yorkshire-based chemicals firm Croda International PLC earlier this year, joins Hertfordshire-based medical technology company Smith & Nephew as an independent non-executive director on Thursday.

S&N also confirmed Rupert Soames will join as chair on Friday as planned.

Incoming Chair Soames said: "We are delighted to be able to announce two such strong appointments to our board. Simon and Jez bring deep executive and non-executive experience of serving on boards of companies which have had to address strategic and operational challenges across a number of different industries, including life-sciences and healthcare. They both have experience of supervising large operations in the US, Europe and Asia and of working in highly-regulated industries."

Smith & Nephew shares were 0.6% lower at 1,061.50 pence each on Thursday morning in London.

By Tom Budszus, Alliance News reporter

Comments and questions to newsroom@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2023 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
LIVONIA, MICH.  Bold Journey Magazine, recently caught up with 2014 broadcast and cinema arts alumna Nancy Boyd. In the interview, Boyd shares her storytelling style as she talks about the feature film she directed, Lady Parts, which currently is in post-production.

Boyd also identifies the three most important skills for success and the impact her parents, Dan and Suzanne Boyd, have had on her career.

The full article is available on Bold Journey's website.
Manchester, VT (05254)

Today

Partly cloudy this evening, then some snow showers after midnight. Low 31F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 40%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening, then some snow showers after midnight. Low 31F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 40%.
A July 2023 study from a think tank ironically hosted at Harvard, Opportunity Insights, shows that low-income students have terrible chances of being accepted into Harvard. The commitment of the "Ivy Plus" group of universities covered in this study shows that almost two-thirds of the student population comes from the top 20% of the wealth pool, while only 5% comes from the bottom.

The bias towards wealth seems colorblind, however, as affluent minorities are also far more likely to join the Ivy ranks than poorer people with similar ethnicitiesthese schools really like money.

Campus Reform:
The Philippines and the United States are eyeing more projects in sites covered by the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) that will be operational next year, Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said.

Were very optimistic that for next year, we will have more of these projects operational so that we can work on our joint exercises right away and also our joint operations, Brawner said during his visit to the EDCA site at the Basa Air Base in Pampanga on Wednesday.

United States Indo-Pacific Command head Admiral John Aquilino said the developments in EDCA projects are moving at great speed.

The work that his [Brawners] team has done in coordination with our team to further advance the capabilities here in the Philippines, I am really impressed with the work of the team. So Im very happy, Aquilino said.

I was here a year ago. The advance of the runway and all of the sites is moving at great speed and its only because of the great partnership, he added.

Aquilino said another 63 projects in the nine approved EDCA sites were added aside from the 32 projects that were earlier approved.

And (the) United States has identified investment of almost $110 million to those sites to build capability capacity for the AFP to use every day and for the United States to fall in when invited, he said.

Military public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Enrico Ileto said the AFP has presented its proposed projects for the EDCA sites to its US counterpart.

Our American friends have heard what our proposals are and I believe they will assess how they can finance it, when we can start it and put a timeline on it. Their response was very positive, Ileto said.

Aside from the Basa Air Base, Brawner and Aquilino also visited the EDCA site at the Lal-lo Airport and Naval Base Camilo Osias in Cagayan on Wednesday.

The visit was a prelude to the upcoming Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) meeting at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

The MDB and SEB, established in 1968 and 2006, respectively, form the framework that directs and enables defense and security cooperation between the US and the Philippine forces.

Brawner said yesterdays MDB-SEB meeting demonstrated the steadfast commitment of the Philippines and the United States in safeguarding our nation and the Indo-Pacific Region.

It signifies our commitment to further strengthen our cooperation, ensuring that both militaries are prepared and well-equipped to respond to evolving security challenges and humanitarian crises, Brawner said.
Chinese vessels are active in Philippine waters on both sides of the country, with some 30 fishing boats swarming several shoals near the Reed Bank to the west and research vessels roaming the eastern side of the Philippine Sea, officials said Thursday.

Amid the renewed activity, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro said it was China that was escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), and not the presence of US forces, as Senator Robin Padilla suggested.

But the Chinese Embassy in Manila, in a statement, stressed that China is an important force in ensuring peace and stability in the South China Sea despite its continued aggressions in the region.

China is an important force for maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea. It abides by the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and is committed to upholding and promoting international rule of law, the embassy said.

It maintained that Beijing respects and acts in accordance with international law.

Armed Forces chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., meanwhile, said more countries have expressed their intention to participate in a joint sail in the WPS, a very good indication that there are like-minded nations who want to promote a rules-based international order and ensure security in the Indo-Pacific region.

The military reported a resurgence of Chinese swarming activity in the West Philippine Sea.

Aerial patrols conducted by the Armed Forces Western Command on Sept. 6 and 7 spotted 23 Chinese fishing vessels in Iroquois Reef at the southern end of Reed Bank, northeast of the Spratly Islands.

Additional swarming was observed in Escoda (Sabina) Shoal, where five Chinese fishing vessels were present, and in Baragatan (Nares) Bank, with two Chinese fishing vessels recorded, the Western Command said.

A routine air patrol conducted by the Philippine Navy on Aug. 24 spotted 33 Chinese fishing vessels in Rozul (Iroquis) Reef within the countrys exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and continental shelf, making this intrusion a violation of Philippine sovereign rights and jurisdiction.

Previous swarming incidents in the area have also been followed by reports of massive coral harvesting, further raising concerns about their harmful environmental impact, it said.

The same air patrol also reported swarming activity in Escoda (Sabina) Shoal, which is also located within the Philippine exclusive economic zone and serves as a marker for the approach to Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal.

But the Chinese Embassy said: While firmly safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, China adheres to the position of settling disputes through negotiation and consultation and managing differences through rules and mechanisms.

China endeavors to achieve win-win outcomes through mutually beneficial cooperation, and is committed to making the South China Sea a sea of peace, cooperation and friendship, it added.

Meanwhile, National Security Council (NSC) assistant director-general Jonathan Malaya said Chinese research vessels are reportedly roaming the eastern side of the Philippine Sea.

We also need to monitor the eastern side of the Philippines, which is the Philippine Rise or Benham Rise, Malaya said in Filipino on Dobol B TV.

Malaya said a few years ago, China named some submerged features in the eastern side of the Philippines.

The Armed Forces Western Command said the increase in Chinese swarming activity has been a source of tension in the WPS, with potential implications for Philippines maritime security, fisheries conservation, territorial integrity, and preservation of the marine environment.

The international community has repeatedly criticized China for illegally building air strips and military assets in maritime features that fall within other countries exclusive economic zones, it said.

In August, Chinese ships used a water cannon and blocked some ships to repel Filipino resupply boats from approaching a Philippine outpost in the Ayungin Shoal.

Earlier this month, four Chinese Coast Guard and four maritime militia vessels again shadowed, blocked and harassed the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ships and supply boats on a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre.

The Senate special committee on Philippine maritime and admiralty zones on Thursday started its hearing on proposals that seek to define and institutionalize the Philippines maritime zones.

Crafting a law that will institutionalize maritime zones would be the Philippines response to Chinas 10-dash line, said Senator Francis Tolentino, who chairs the panel.

Last month, China unveiled a new map that showed its extended territorial claims, including parts of the West Philippine Sea inside its 10-dash line.

Tolentino on Thursday raised the idea of changing the name West Philippine Sea to Greater West Philippine Sea, but Foreign Affairs Undersecretary said such a move might not be recognized by the international community.

He said, for example, that West Philippine Sea does not appear in foreign maps. As the sessions started, Tolentino cited the need to define the Philippine maritime zones which will allow Filipinos to responsibly enjoy the bounty of the Philippines rich maritime and archipelagic waters. Leaving the Philippine maritime zones largely undefined will slow our ability to responsibly exploit and develop our resources, he added.

He said the Philippines has been importing fish, but theres a huge untapped potential in the disputed territory. Tolentino said his committee would hold several hearings, and call as resource persons maritime and international law experts.

Padilla expressed support for the nine bills pending before the Senate that would establish the Philippine maritime zones. Asked about Padillas statement that it was the US presence in the Philippines that was escalating tensions in the region, Teodoro said it was the Chinese, not the Americans who were doing that.

I respectfully disagree. It is the expansionist policy of China that is actually escalating the tensions not only between us but with Vietnam and other actors, Teodoro said in an interview on ANC.

And their 10-dash line actually is the best proof that they want to escalate tensions within the area because now even Brunei is affected and India is affected and Nepal is affected, he added.

The Defense chief also pointed out that China did not recognize the Philippines 200-nautical-mile EEZ. During a hearing of the Senate national defense committee on Tuesday, Padilla questioned the presence of an American plane during the latest resupply mission.

But Defense Undersecretary Ignacio Madriaga and Prof. Jay Batongbacal said there is nothing wrong with the presence of a US military plane during resupply missions to Ayungin Shoal.

Batongbacal said there is freedom of navigation and overflight in the areas near Ayungin Shoal, which means the presence of a US military aircraft does not violate any international laws.

That area is part of our exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, that is Ayungin Shoal. That is not land territory. There is no territorial sea there, no territorial airspace and therefore there is freedom of navigation and overflight around Ayungin Shoal, he said.

Brawner, meanwhile, said the AFP is working with other countries that want to participate in a joint sail in WPS. Aside from the US, several countries have [expressed] their intention of joining the joint sail, he added.

The United States Indo-Pacific Command commander Admiral John Aquilino said that the US and the Philippines have conducted their first joint patrol.

Under the title of joint patrols just recently on the 4th of September, we executed the first one that was aligned, designed, and built by General Brawners team, and my team executed with approval from our leaders, Aquilino said.

Well continue to do that for a long term, ultimately to ensure that we can maintain the freedom of the seas, freedom of airspace so that all the nations in the region can enjoy peace and prosperity, he added.

On Wednesday, Teodoro pointed out the importance of alliances with like-minded countries amid the changing threat situation in the WPS.

With the changing threat situation and the moves of other countries in the WPS, we need to leverage our alliances not for anything but to enforce rules-based international order and the UNCLOS, Teodoro said, referring to the UN Conference on the Law of the Sea, of which both China and the Philippines are signatories.
A West Yarmouth school bus driver was arraigned Thursday after a female student on a bus accused him of indecent assault to Barnstable police, the Cape and Island District Attorneys office announced.

Jeffrey Hyland, 80, was charged with aggravated indecent assault and battery and reckless endangerment of a child, a statement from District Attorney Robert Galibois office said. Hylands arraignment was in Barnstable District Court.

Police received an initial report on Wednesday at around 1:30 p.m. from a student who accused Hyland of assaulting her, Galibois office said. Corroborating evidence was recovered by police, who placed Hyland under arrest.

Hyland was held overnight at the police department on $5,000 bail, Galibois office said. Police said they continue to investigate the allegations.

The Commonwealth requested $10,000 cash bail at Hylands arraignment. He must stay away from the victim and not make contact or with any minors under 18 years of age, stay away from schools and where a GPS monitoring device.

The court ordered that he be released on personal recognizance with no cash bail, the district attorneys office said.

Hyland is expected to be back in court on Dec. 7 for a probable cause hearing.
A 14-year-old boy from Lawrence has been arrested and charged in connection with the shooting death of 19-year-old Angie Aristy on Sept. 6, according to the Essex County District Attorneys office.

Jobe Santiago has been charged with murder in connection with Aristys shooting death, the office said. Santiago is expected to be arraigned on Thursday at Lawrence District Court, the office stated.

Another juvenile has also been arrested in connection with the death and has been charged with assault with intent to rob, the office said. The child will be arraigned on Thursday at Lawrence Juvenile Court.

A 911 call came in around 9:20 p.m. on Sept. 6, to the Lawrence Police Department for a report of a shooting near 300 Howard St. in the city, the office stated.

Aristy was found injured from a gunshot and was brought to Lawrence General Hospital where she died, the office said.

Santiago was arrested on Wednesday by the state polices STOP team, along with its Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section, U.S. Marshals and members of the district attorneys state police detectives unit, along with Lowell and Lawrence police.
A Florida man who draped Nazi banners from an interstate highway overpass was arrested Tuesday and charged with what Daytona Beach News described as "displaying messages without obtaining permission."

[Jason] Brown has been linked to a group known as the Order of the Black Sun. According to the Anti-Defamation League, this group is Florida-based and focuses on distributing literature and demonstrations promoting hateful ideology.  Prior to being arrested for this infraction, Brown's previous charges include domestic battery by strangulation, contempt of court, and tampering in a felony proceeding. He's also been accused of stealing and destroying a Jewish man's phone during another demonstration.

Well, what did you expect? A nice Nazi?

UPDATE: I looked up the weird law being referred to there. It isn't exactly as dumb as the story's wording suggests, but it nearly is.

DeSantis in April signed HB 269: "Displaying or projecting any message onto a private building without the written permission of the structure's owner."

Police interpreting this law as "protest banners on public property are now illegal" is  not a good sign.
What started as a traffic stop in Brockton on Thursday has turned into a search as Massachusetts State Police look for a suspect who dragged a trooper after making that initial stop.

The incident happened at around 6 p.m. on Montello Street, when a state trooper pulled a car over for motor vehicle violations, State Police said.

The driver, identified as Derek Lobo, 31, of Brockton, was driving a Mercedes when he was pulled over. Two troopers approached his car, standing close between Lobo and the car door.

Dash camera footage showed one trooper reaching into Lobos car, quickly lurching his body inside while the other trooper pushed himself away. The car then began to move forward before speeding off. One trooper stepped away while the other held on before eventually letting go after a few yards before Lobo drove off.

Lobo is wanted for assault and battery on a police officer, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, negligent operation of motor vehicle, and trafficking in fentanyl, among other charges, State Police said in a statement.

The troopers injuries were minor, the statement said.

Those with any information about Lobos whereabouts are asked to call the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section at 1-800-KAPTURE (1-800-527-8873).
The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating after a United Airlines pilot was forced to pull up mid-descent due to a plane still on the runway at Bostons Logan Airport, a maneuver authorities are calling a go-around.

The incident happened Monday, Sept. 11 at about 10:45 p.m. when an air traffic controller instructed United Airlines flight 2267 to pull up from its descent due to a previous flight still on the runway, according to a Federal Aviation Administration spokesperson.

The go-around was described as a safe, routine procedure performed at the discretion of a pilot or an air traffic controller, according to the FAA.

To an airline passenger, the event may seem like an emergency maneuver, the spokesperson said. However, the controller and pilot are working together to prevent an unsafe condition from occurring.

A United Airlines spokesperson referred questions to the FAA.

A passenger on the United flight spoke with Boston 25 and described the incident.

People on the plane gasped at the rapid pull-up and the roar of the engines as the rapid change in speed and trajectory pushed us backward into our seats and we saw the tarmac and land rapidly disappear under us, the passenger said. Once we were back high in the sky circling, the pilot came on the loudspeaker and said something like, The runway... uh... was not able to be cleared of planes in time for us... uh.... we had to pull up and will circle for a bit and land shortly.

The news outlet also obtained a recording of the air traffic controller telling the pilot: Sorry about that. An aircraft was still on the runway.

The FAA awarded Logan Airport with $44.9 million in new funding to reduce the chances of close calls on runways. The funding will go towards simplifying taxiways and installing new lighting systems, among other improvements.

Last month, a subcontractor for JetBlue died while using a forklift at the airport. A GoFundMe is raising money for the family of Raul Santiago, 31, after his death on Aug. 29.

In mid-August, the FAA announced it would launch an investigation after a close call between two planes nearly collided. On Aug. 14, an American Airlines flight was told to stay grounded after nearly being struck by a Spirit Airlines plane.

The incident on Aug. 14 was at least the fourth close call at Logan Airport this year. Back in February, a small private jet almost crashed with a JetBlue plane on the runway. The JetBlue pilot managed to evade the other plane.

Then in March, two United Airlines planes hit one another in a minor collision as one plane was being dragged to its gate just before takeoff. No injuries were reported.

In June, another United flight clipped the tail of a Delta plane while taxiing at a low speed, 7News reported. No one was hurt despite passengers being onboard both planes.
BOSTON  A federal consent decree was approved Wednesday by a judge bolstering an agreement between state and federal agencies and the city of Holyoke to mitigate leakage of raw sewage into the Connecticut River.

The consent decree was the result of an enforcement action brought by the Department of Justice, on behalf of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Massachusetts Attorney Generals Office, on behalf of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. The judges approval reaffirms and strengthens a preliminary agreement struck by the city and the state and federal watchdogs in March.
All students in Massachusetts get a free breakfast and lunch and are required to take a fruit or vegetable with it. However, if they dont, that falls on the school  not families, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education said.

On Aug. 8, Gov. Maura Healey signed a $56 billion budget, which included $172 million for the permanent universal lunch program for public school students in kindergarten through grade 12.

The free meals program offers one breakfast and lunch at no charge to all students regardless of income, Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education said. Students must take a fruit and vegetable for the schools to get reimbursed for the meal.

MassLive was previously told that at some schools, if a student skips taking the fruit or vegetable that day, the student could be charged. However, DESE clarified Wednesday that the school cannot charge the student for the first meal, DESE said. If parents see a charge, they should contact the school.

At least some schools are keeping fruit and vegetables near the checkout to help remind students.

No school should be charging families for a lunch (1st lunch) for any reason, DESE said.

But there are still ways parents could see charges from the lunchroom.

If a student gets an extra lunch, including a slice of pizza after their first lunch, they will be charged for it. Other a-la-carte items, such as cookies or ice cream, cost money, too.

The statewide program was made to help with the stigma attached to getting free meals, Laura Amedeo, the supervisor of school cafeterias in West Springfield, told The Republican.

There are still many families who struggle with food insecurity. However, students can now enjoy nutritious meals without worrying about debt or feeling ashamed for receiving reduced or free meals, said Amedeo.

Previously, if a student owed money, a cashier could throw away the childs hot meal and replace it with a cold, cheese sandwich.

Massachusetts Law Reform Institute advocated that schools to do away with practices that shame children for their parents financial circumstances.

Massachusetts is a national leader in education - now it is time for the Commonwealth to ensure that no child in our state will be denied a school meal or be shamed because of a familys school meal debt, the 2018 report stated.

Some school districts in Massachusetts have had free lunches in place for years. But officials said the program shines a light on just how many families depend on school meals daily and will be a huge contributor to stamping out hunger in the state.

Our goal is always to increase participation. We want more families to realize the benefits and participate, said Melanie Wilk, director of food service at Chicopee Public Schools.
Fundraising efforts to help those impacted by significant flooding in Leominster are still underway after flood waters affected all 26 square miles of the city this week.

Dozens of residents had their homes destroyed or severely damaged when a strong storm passed through the area Monday night, Sept. 11. Among these residents were Mark and Sue Amico.

Mark Amico served as a Leominster police officer for nearly 30 years and became the lieutenant before retiring in 2022, Kristin West wrote in a GoFundMe campaign. The Amicos house was flooded with more than six feet of water, West said.

Unfortunately with this horrible flooding they have experienced great damage to their family house and their yard, West wrote. What started out as a small trickling brook in their backyard has now turned into white water rapids against their home, just feet below their main level of their home.

All proceeds from the GoFundMe will help the Amicos repair the damage to their home and replace their belongings. People interested in donating can click here.

A list of several more GoFundMe campaigns for other Leominster residents and businesses can be found below:

The damage to Leominster is expected to cost somewhere between $25 million and $45 million, Mayor Dean Mazzarella said at a press conference on Wednesday.

Due to flooding and damage, including sinkholes ravaging some streets, Mazzarella said it could be not days but weeks before streets reopen.

The mayor previously said that Leominster saw around 11 inches of rain fall, but the National Weather Services official count was 9.5 inches. No deaths were reported. But the damage to several buildings and schools led to closures on Wednesday.

People can also donate to a flood relief effort organized by the United Way of North Central Massachusetts. Any donation will be matched dollar for dollar up to $50,000. To donate, text FLOODRELIEF to 50155 or visit United Ways flood relief website.

The Leominster Relief Fund is also taking donations. People can send a check made out to the fund or stop by the mayors office at 25 West St. to donate by cash or check.

Leominster Emergency Management also asked that anyone in need of non-life threatening assistance, including basement flooding, sump pumps, or other immediate needs can contact them at 978-534-7580. Call 911 if it is a more serious or life-threatening emergency, they said.

Across social media, one other resource referenced by residents is Ginnys Helping Hand and Food Pantry. The organization posted on Facebook that it was accepting food, personal items and clothing to help those in our community affected by the floods.

Donations to Ginnys started on Wednesday, Ginnys said on Facebook. To donate, visit Ginnys location at 52 Mechanic St.
A Lowell teenager brought a gun to school and threatened to shoot up the block on Tuesday, according to the Middlesex District Attorneys office.

At about 12:45 p.m., Lowell Police responded to Lowell Middlesex Academy Charter School after being told that multiple students from the school might be in possession of guns. Security guards at the school said a student told them other students had guns and were making threats, according to the district attorneys office.

A 16-year-old boy was attempting to leave the school with a backpack. When police tried to detain the student, he hit the officer and attempted to leave, according to officials.

A loaded revolver was found inside the students bag and he was placed under arrest, the district attorneys office said.

The school was then placed on lockdown, classes were stopped and three police K9s conducted a sweep of the school. No other weapons were found, officials said.

I applaud the student who came forward to report this incident to a trusted adult. It is imperative that, as we continue to train parents, educators and law enforcement around the issue of gun violence in schools, that we remember that students are one of our best assets, said Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan. We know that students are often more likely to hear these kinds of threats, see something on social media or have knowledge that a peer has access to a weapon. Guns and threats of violence have no place in our schools and we will hold responsible those who jeopardize the safety of our schools.

The 16-year-old student was charged with carrying a loaded firearm without a license, carrying a firearm without a license, carrying a dangerous weapon on school grounds, assault and battery of a police officer and possession of ammunition without a license.

He was arraigned Wednesday in Lowell Juvenile Court.
Members of four Massachusetts police groups urged the states police oversight board to retract a public database of officer disciplinary incidents over concerns about the accuracy of some of its contents.

Despite their concerns, the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission does not plan to withdraw the database it released in August, which listed thousands of infractions by cops across the state in a move for greater transparency.

About 4.5% of the incidents described in the database required a correction after its release, POST Executive Director Enrique Zuniga said during the commissions public meeting Thursday.

That information needs to be 100% correct before its publicized, Framingham Police Chief Lester Baker, a POST commissioner, said.

If you are an officer that should have not been on that list, and you were on that list in this day and age, that never comes back, no matter what you do, no matter what corrections are made, Baker said during Thursdays commission meeting.

The database, built with records submitted directly by individual police departments, logged sustained allegations of misconduct against active police officers, as well as cops who resigned or retired to dodge discipline.

Enrique Zuniga listens during a meeting of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission in Boston, Massachusetts on April 3, 2019. Formerly a gaming commissioner, Zuniga is now the executive director of the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission. (Photo by Christopher Evans/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images)MediaNews Group via Getty Images

The commission anticipated that once the database was published, some information would need to be corrected due to various issues, such as disciplinary rulings that had recently been reversed or vacated.

Shortly after its release, Zuniga said the commission became aware of specific inaccuracies in the data. He said four major police groups  the Massachusetts Major City Chiefs of Police Association, the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, the Fraternal Order of Police, and the Massachusetts Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators  all urged the commission to take the database offline until its information could be fully corrected.

Weve studied this matter carefully, but my recommendation is not to take them down, and to continue correcting and adding to the reports in accordance with the process we have implemented, Zuniga said Thursday. I understand where theyre coming from. We believe the vast majority of records are appropriately validated and updated and well continue to work with those corrections.

The commission made most of the necessary corrections in an update to the dataset on Sept. 1 and plans to release further updates on a monthly basis, Zuniga said.

Some police officials have also butted heads with POST over whether minor disciplinary matters should be included in the database at all.

The database lists a number of serious instances of misconduct, including unlawful arrests or officers facing criminal charges. With more than 3,000 complaints listed, the data also reflected run-of-the-mill workplace transgressions, such as officers reprimanded for submitting late payroll forms or misplacing a work cellphone.

Baker said certain minor infractions, such as verbal reprimands documented in writing in an officers file, should be left off the publicly accessible dataset.

Springfield police cruiser parked outside the MGM Springfield casino, Feb. 2023. (Nicole Simmons/MassLive)Nicole Simmons

I would challenge every commissioner on this board  have you ever had a boss have a conversation with you because you did something incorrectly? Thats not discipline, and to publicly put out that your boss had a conversation with you I just feel is inappropriate, Baker said. We have to be able to have a conversation with our employees without having it end up on a public disciplinary list.

The Springfield Police Department also pushed the commission last month to drop disciplinary incidents from the database if they resulted in cops being ordered to undergo retraining. Springfield Police Superintendent Cheryl Clapprood said she does not consider retraining to be a matter of discipline and that the inclusion of those cases hurt her officers reputations.

Zuniga countered that retraining, along with more severe punishments, was a principle of progressive discipline that should be listed on the database.

Read more: Springfield Police at odds with state over officer misconduct data

POST Commissioner Dr. Hanya Bluestone, a forensic psychologist by trade, said the development of the disciplinary records database was a long and thoughtful process ... with great concern for the accuracy of these records.

And from a statistical standpoint, she said Thursday, releasing records in a database of this magnitude meant there would be an unavoidable chance of some errors.

Were looking at about 95% accuracy in this database. I think thats very impressive, Bluestone said. She commended the commission for issuing its first set of corrections just over a week after the database went public.

Zuniga also said Thursday that mismatched data meant records from five police departments  Cambridge, Everett, Brookline, Chatham and Greenfield  did not make it into the database. Those departments disciplinary records will be added to the database in the coming weeks, he said.

The database has also drawn criticism for its vague descriptions of officer misconduct, including serious infractions that have cost police their jobs.

One former Woburn officer, for example, lost his POST-issued policing certification after he was accused of marching in the 2017 white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. In the database, his infraction is described only as other misconduct and conduct unbecoming.

Many cops infractions were characterized similarly vaguely  as policy violation or neglect of duty, for instance.

Sophia Hall, of the nonprofit Lawyers for Civil Rights, has called the database a really critical step forward and a good first step.

But she said it will need improvements to provide transparency for lawyers, journalists and members of the public curious about their local police department.

There are gaps here in information that we need to clear up to ensure we actually meaningfully meet our goals of transparency, Hall said.
The mother of Aubrianna Serra  the young Springfield girl who died after being shot by a neighbor in a murder/suicide Aug. 14  shared an emotion- and detail-filled post on Facebook Thursday that revealed her car was totaled as she was rushing home that day and she saw the ambulance that was carrying her dying daughter to the hospital drive by her.

Victor Nieves, 34, shot and killed Kim Fairbanks, 52, and a pet dog and hurt two children before turning the gun on himself at 174 Berkshire Ave. Aug. 14, according to authorities. Fairbanks was babysitting her three grandchildren while their parents were at work.

The childrens mother, Stephanie Croteau, has taken to posting on Facebook since the shooting, sharing her feelings and memories, including videos and photos of her mother and children.

In a post Thursday at 12:19 a.m.  on the month anniversary of when her entire life flipped upside down  Croteau outlined what happened the day one of her children and her mom were murdered.

She wrote that she received a text from Nieves girlfriend while at work.

His girlfriend texted me at 2:35 p.m. Steph call me asap its Monica, Croteau recounted on Facebook. So I called her. She said Victor is going crazy. Now weve all seen our friends crazy so I just thought it was no different then normal. Then Monica hung up the phone. Not even 10 minutes later she called me back and I heard two shots and then my 12-year-old come outside screaming he shot us and then himself ... While I was at work ...

Croteau drove home. As she drove down Roosevelt Avenue in Springfield, she said a truck with a trailer hit her car after it moved into her lane.

I told him (the truck driver) I got a call that MY KIDS were shot ... Then five minutes later we both saw eight cops and one ambulance ...

Croteau said little did she know in the moment, but the ambulance was carrying her three children. Aubrianna Serra, 10, later died from her wounds. Her sister, 12, was shot but survived and her brother, 5, was not shot.

A friend eventually picked her up from the crash scene and took her to the hospital. Croteau said there were cops & security everywhere ... when we pulled in they barely allowed us in until they realized I was the mom of those three children ...

She met with her grandfather in a back room. This was when she said she started losing it. A doctor approached her and said her 5-year-old son was not harmed but was in shock, while her 12-year-old daughter, Michele, was stable after she was shot. But Aubrianna was in surgery.

... The doctors at Bay State (Medical Center) did the very best they could but my little girl was very sick as they said, Croteau wrote. They put both Michele and Aubrianna in the PICU of Bay State, side by side.

Aubrianna required a second surgery. During that time, Croteau said she asked multiple times where her mother was. She eventually was told her mother had died. Aubrianna went through more surgeries, until after her fourth, when a doctor told the parents their daughter did not have brain activity that she should as a 10-year-old and her brain was swelling.

She said she and Aubriannas father could not watch my baby girl suffer. At 12:56 a.m., on Aug. 17, Aubrianna died.

The people that meant most to her surrounded her until the end, Croteau said. I absolutely dread and hate that this happened to our light, our joy and our happiness ... if I could change that day completely around, I would ...

I miss you princess, Croteau concluded. I love you ... so much more then you could ever imagine.

Since that day, Nieves girlfriend, Monica Sanchez, 32, pleaded not guilty in Springfield District Court to nine criminal charges on Aug. 30, The Republican previously reported.

Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni said of eight weapons Sanchez was licensed to own, five had been stolen, though Sanchez never reported them stolen to police. During an investigation, she told detectives she believed Nieves had taken them.

Sanchez said Nieves loved the children downstairs and wasnt in his right mind.

A pretrial hearing in that case is set for Sept. 27.
A New Bedford man was sentenced to two years in prison after the death of an Assonet woman in 2022, according to a press release from the Bristol County District Attorneys office.

Joy Swartzendruber, 45, was standing next to her Toyota Avalon back in August 2022 when a Ford F-150, driven by Christopher Noguera, 51, slammed into her, the district attorneys office said.

Moments before the crash, Noguera was driving northbound on Route 140 in his Ford F-150, and was drifting from lane to lane before ending up in the breakdown lane where Swartzendruber was standing, smashing into the car and then her, the district attorney said.

Swartzendruber was pronounced dead at the scene.

The defendants negligent operation of his pickup truck resulted in a terrible tragedy that could easily have been avoided, said Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn III. The victim was clearly in the breakdown lane when the defendant struck and killed her. My heart goes out the family for their terrible loss. I hope todays verdict, and the sentence imposed by the court, provides some consolation to them.

Noguera was found guilty on Wednesday for motor vehicle homicide by negligent operation in connection with the 2022 death of Swartzendruber, said the district attorneys office said. His license has been suspended for 15 years and he was sentenced to two years in prison.
Middle schoolers in Holliston attempted the spicy One Chip Challenge, the same challenge a Worcester teen attempted shortly before he died last week.

The Adams Middle School students caused serious concern, according to a Facebook post from Superintendent Susan Kustka. But, Kustka added that thankfully, none of our students became seriously ill.

This could have been much more serious, she wrote.

According to NBC Boston, the group of around 10 seventh graders tried the challenge during their lunch and were physically distressed in the moments that followed.

My understanding is that, just from touching them, some of them had burn marks on their skin, Kustka told the news station. People dont realize how a chip could do so much. This is not a joke, this is a serious situation.

Any of the students who ate or touched the chip were checked out by school nursing staff before they were picked up by their families, and were told to go to the emergency room, NBC Boston reported.

Last week, 14-year-old Harris Wolobah from Worcester died shortly after partaking in the One Chip Challenge, according to his family.

Although an autopsy has not yet been completed, Wolobahs family said on their GoFundMe that they suspect the challenge was the cause.

Paqui, the company that released the spicy One Chip Challenge tortilla chip announced last week, that they were removing the chips from store shelves stating on their website that theyve seen an increase in teens and other individuals not heeding these warnings, referring to the warning on the coffin-shaped packaging.

The challenge involves eating one Carolina Reaper and Naga Viper-flavored chip, and to see how long the challenger can last without needing to drink water or milk to soothe the heat.

Both peppers are considered among the hottest peppers in the world, with Carolina Reapers scaling at 2.2 million Scoville heat units, according to the Los Angeles Times. Naga Viper peppers scale at around 1.4 million Scoville heat units, according to the online pepper shop website PepperHead.

Paqui said on its website that it is offering refunds for anyone who bought a One Chip Challenge chip. Call 1-866-528-6848. Read the statement here.
California Highway Patrol in the city of Merced arrested a gentleman for driving under the influence (DUI). The man was on horseback. Apparently, police officer Kody Brackett noticed the horseman was holding an open container of alcohol and pulled him over where it became "evident that the rider was impaired by alcohol."

"It's worth noting that, according to California Vehicle Code 21050, the rules of the road apply to those operating animals on the highway," CHP Merced stated in an Instagram post about the incident.

"Officer Brackett also ensured the safe return of the horse to its origin after the arrest," CHP commented.

Last year, another horsemanthis time in southern Californiawas arrested for DUI after attempting to escape police by "galloping through traffic."

(via NextDraft)
SPRINGFIELD  Sandra McCall migrated to the U.S. from Kingston, Jamaica, 22 years ago seeking opportunities her homeland didnt provide.

(I wanted to) see a different side of the world, she said. Ive come to like it and decided this is what I wanted.

She visits Jamaica regularly, but said she feels shes now in a place where she can do better for herself and her family.

McCall is one of 176 people who became American citizens Thursday morning through the United States Citizens and Immigration Services naturalization ceremony. She encourages fellow migrants to fulfill requirements and become citizens.

New citizen Sandra McCall, an immigrant from Jamaica, is all smiles during a Naturalization Ceremony that gave 176 immigrants their citizenship at the Springfield Armory National Historic Site. (Don Treeger / The Republican) 9/14/2023

If you have the opportunity to be here, it is something that you should pursue, she said. There are so many opportunities and privileges. Being a part of the United States, becoming a U.S. citizen, really helps you contribute to the country more.

Others taking part in the ceremony, held on the lawn of the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, came from Brazil, Ecuador, Japan, Kosovo, Trinidad, the United Kingdom and Vietnam, among other nations. Over 55 countries were represented.

These are countries with varied and rich cultures and youve taken very different roads to get to this point of taking the oath as new American citizens, U.S. Magistrate Judge Katherine A. Robertson told the group.

Omowunmi Shelton, originally from Lagos, Nigeria, owns African Fashion in Springfield and moved to the United States in April 2016.

Theres a lot of things going on in Africa and in the world as a whole, she said. Here you work, get paid ... you live a better life.

Her plan is to keep on pushing, enjoy the good of the land and to contribute.

The Honorable Katherine Robertson of the U.S. District Court presides during a naturalization ceremony that gave 176 immigrants their citizenship at the Springfield Armory National Historic Site. (Don Treeger / The Republican) 9/14/2023

This is the time to give back, contribute to society, to my community, she said. Im ready to do that.

Narendran G-Dayandan, from southern India, moved to America in 2004 to study. The education system is what attracted me, he said.

He considers being naturalized bittersweet, saying its hard to think he is now an actual citizen of the U.S., after living in the country with a green card for almost two decades.

Each candidate for citizenship had to be at least 18, have lived in the United States for a number of years, be a lawful permanent resident for at least five years, speak English fluently, become familiar with American history and government and commit to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution, among other criteria.

Robertson congratulated them and spoke about the responsibilities they now have as citizens, one of which is the ability to vote.

Whatever has led you to this moment  your memories of your country of origin, its language, its culture, its traditions, those experiences remain with you and contribute to Americas richness and variety, she said.

New citizens take an oath during a naturalization ceremony that gave 176 immigrants their citizenship at the Springfield Armory National Historic Site. (Don Treeger / The Republican) 9/14/2023

Zahi Haddad, a professor in the engineering department at Springfield Technical Community College, was the ceremonys keynote speaker.

He shared his journey of migrating from Jordan to the United States, knowing very little English  and now serving as a professor at STCC.

He told the new U.S. citizens that the American dream is possible, although it wont be handed to them.

Your history shaped you into the individuals that you are today and gives you a unique opportunity to leave your mark on the community around you, he said.
A tornado likely happened in Connecticut and Rhode Island Wednesday as severe thunderstorms made their way across New England, according to the National Weather Service.

The weather service said it will survey storm damage in those two states Thursday. But by looking at radar data and videos it does appear likely that a tornado occurred.

The survey will help the weather service determine its strength on the EF-scale, maximum wind speed and path length and width.

The EF, or Enhanced Fujita scale, ranks the intensity of a tornados wind speed. EF-0 and EF-1, between 65 and 110 mph, are considered weak; EF-2 and EF-3 tornadoes are expected to be strong, reaching speeds of 111 to 165 mph; and EF-4 and EF-5 tornadoes reaching somewhere between 166 or over 200 mph are considered violent, according to the weather service.

Tornado warnings were issued for parts of Plymouth, Norfolk and Bristol counties in Massachusetts Wednesday.

TAKE COVER NOW! the alert read. Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.

The weather service has not confirmed a tornado in those areas as of Thursday morning.

On Aug. 18, New England had five tornados in Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

The tornado seen in Scotland, Connecticut was the first one that day, according to the National Weather Service. The tornado materialized at 7:53 a.m. and spun for about six minutes. This tornado scaled at an EF-1 on the Enhanced Fujita scale based on its wind speed and the damage caused.

This tornado reached wind speeds of 100 mph and traveled just under three miles. It touched down on Bass Road and continued along Route 14, then crossed Pinch Street before it eventually lifted near Brook Road, the weather service said.

While there wasnt much in the way of structural damage observed, other than gutter damage to two homes, there was significant tree damage, meteorologists said. It was estimated that well over one hundred trees were either downed or sheared off at their tops.

Next came the EF-2 tornado that traveled from Scituate to Johnston to North Providence, all in Rhode Island, between 8:40 to 8:57 a.m. This tornado uprooted or snapped hundreds of large trees, some of which significantly damaged homes, and in one case lifted a vehicle into the air before dropping it back onto the highway, the weather service reported.

Then an EF-1 tornado struck the ground and traveled from North Attleborough to Mansfield in Massachusetts. From 9:07 to 9:22 a.m., this tornado snapped and uprooted trees, with one witness telling meteorologists she saw swirling debris before taking shelter in her home.

An EF-0 tornado briefly hit the ground in Stoughton between 9:37 and 9:39 a.m. It blasted part of a fence and left some damage to trees, the weather service said.

The last tornado landed in Weymouth, scaling at an EF-1. It lasted from 9:52 to 9:55 a.m. and uprooted numerous trees, while a home at the intersection of Burton Terrace and Torrey Street had about 20 singles torn from its roof, meteorologists said.

Tornadoes in New England can be expected through the summer months of June, July and August, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration meteorologist Joe Dellicarpini said. In Massachusetts, Bay State residents can expect around a handful during that time, he added, though they are usually weak and short-lived, only lasting a few minutes, but they can still produce damage.

More information about Wednesdays tornado is expected Thursday.
On a flight to Boston a young teen said a doctor masturbated while sitting next to her, according to a press release from the acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levys office.

After arriving in Boston, the 14-year-old told her family members about the incident and then law enforcement was notified, the attorney said.

Dr. Sudipta Mohanty, 33, from Cambridge was indicted for one count of lewd, indecent and obscene acts while in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States, the release said. On Aug. 10 he was arrested and charged with a criminal complaint, but was then released under conditions.

During the time of his arrest, Mohanty was an internal medicine and primary care doctor with a practice in Boston.

On May 27, 2022, Mohanty was a passenger on a Hawaiian Airlines Flight from Honolulu to Boston, where he was seated to the left of a 14-year-old girl with her grandparents, who were seated nearby, according to court documents from May 27, 2022.

About halfway through the flight, the girl saw Mohanty covering himself with a blanket up to his neck and noticed that his legs were bouncing up and down, according to Levy.

Shortly after, the girl noticed that the blanket was on the floor, no longer covering Mohanty, and saw that he was masturbating, according to Levys statement.

The girl didnt know what to do, since everyone was asleep, and found an empty seat in a different row on the plane, where she sat for the remainder of the flight, the statement said.

According to the Department of Justice, Mohantys charges can provide for a sentence of up to 90 days in prison, up to one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $5,000.
John Oliveira, who has served as acting commissioner of the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, was appointed to the role of commissioner on Thursday.

Born legally blind at birth, Oliveira has been an avid voice for people who are blind and/or visually impaired.

I am grateful and fortunate for this opportunity to continue to serve the residents of the Commonwealth who are legally blind, as well as the broader blindness community, said Oliveira in a statement. I am looking forward to leading our dedicated staff as we continue working together to build on this agencys tremendous history of providing social rehabilitation and employment opportunities to consumers with the goal of increasing their independence and full community participation.

Read more: Blind WPI graduate engineers electric jet ski to protect the environment

Oliveira first joined the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind in 2004 as a rehabilitation teacher, where he taught adaptive living skills to the programs consumers, according to the Governors office. Oliveira held a number of roles during his him at the Commission including Director of Employment Services, according to the Governors office.

Over the last few months, I have heard overwhelmingly positive responses from the community and our partners who are excited about the breadth of experience that John brings and his passion for the work of the Commission, said Secretary of Health and Human Services Kate Walsh in a statement. I look forward to our continued work together to support MCB consumers in living full, independent lives in communities across Massachusetts.
Two lawmakers who are trying to restore voting rights to incarcerated people in Massachusetts are going to have to work out some fine details in their bill if they hope to push it forward.

That was the general theme during Wednesdays hearing in front of the Election Laws Committee.

The pair of bills, filed by Sen. Liz Miranda, D-Suffolk, and Rep. Erika Uyterhoeven, D-Middlesex, would restore voting rights to incarcerated people for municipal elections, which were removed after the states constitution was amended in 2000 through a ballot measure.

But, in recent years, lawmakers and voting rights advocates have noted that public opinion now leans more in favor of retaining incarcerated peoples voting rights compared to two decades ago.

Nearly, 70% of voters aged 18 to 29 in the commonwealth support the right for incarcerated people to vote, according to an April 2023 poll by the University of Massachusetts Amherst. But voter support for the measure decreases with age: 54% of those aged 30 to 54 support it, while only a third of those aged 55 and older do.

Read More: Criminal justice reform advocates hope to boost voting access for incarcerated people before 2023 deadline

During the hearing, committee members raised a number of questions and concerns about how their respective constituents would feel about incarcerated people voting.

Rep. Carol A. Doherty, D-Bristol, asked Uyterhoeven how she would respond to people who might ask why felons should get the same voting rights as them.

In response, Uyterhoeven said that she believes, that because you are serving time or you are being held accountable for your actions doesnt mean that you lose all your basic human rights and that includes your voice in government.

The House Democrat also mentioned how participating in local elections is one way to help rehabilitate incarcerated individuals by keeping them civically engaged and informed.

Two other committee members, Reps. Tommy Vitalo, D-Norfolk, and Meghan Kilcoyne, D-Worcester, expressed concerns about the addresses incarcerated individuals would use for voting if the bill were to pass.

Vitalo brought up the point that survivors of domestic violence may not want their abuser registered at their address.

So having people knock on her door and say, Hey, Im looking for someone to ask for his vote, and shes got to relive this every time, that may not be appropriate either, he said.

For Vitalo, its a tough nut to crack, but the state representative did ask for further clarity on who gets to choose where an incarcerated person registers.

Is it the community, or is it the prisoner? he asked. Is it the person who still lives at that home, or is it the prisoner who gets to decide?

Meanwhile, Kilcoyne noted that in small towns, where local elections are closely watched, registering incarcerated individuals in unfamiliar municipalities could be problematic.

The hearing comes months after the Legislature moved a previous bill filed by Miranda and Uyterhoeven out of committee, pushing it to the legislative process. The proposal wouldve removed the constitutional amendment that was added in 2000.

Despite the victory, Miranda said there was still more work to do at the local level.

Imagine you registered to vote, and you voted in your first election, and then that right was stripped away from you, Miranda rhetorically asked the committee.

We are disenfranchising close to 5,000 people who had the right to vote until we took it away from them two decades ago, Miranda continued. It is time that Massachusetts redresses its decision to disenfranchise incarcerated individuals.
With Tuesdays preliminary elections barely in the rearview mirror, and a general election just weeks away, voting rights advocates were on Beacon Hill pressing the case for a suite of updates to the commonwealths election laws that they say will remove long-standing barriers to the ballot box.

Legislation dubbed the Voting ACCESS Act, would authorize long-sought same-day registration, uniform mail and absentee voting forms and ballots, and increased access for voters living with disabilities, among other reforms.

Advocates pressed the case for the legislation during Wednesdays meeting of the Joint Committee on Election Laws, arguing that lawmakers need to have the changes in place before the 2024 presidential election.

Our work to make democracy more accessible remains unfinished, Common Cause Massachusetts Executive Director Geoff Foster said in a statement.

The bill will remove long-standing barriers to voting by enacting same day registration, disability voting oversight, and other reforms to make voting easier for Bay Staters, he continued.

Right now, 22 other states allow same-day voter registration, which allow any qualified state resident to register and cast their ballot at the same time, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Of those states, 20 states and the District of Columbia, offer Election Day registration, which means voters can register and vote on Election Day  and, often, during the early voting period, according to NCSL.

Two states, Montana and North Carolina, allow same-day registration during a portion of the early voting period, but not on Election Day, according to NCSL.

Same Day Voter Registration is a critical step towards eliminating barriers to voting, which disproportionately affect voters of color and low income voters, Shanique Spalding, the executive director of the Massachusetts Voter Table, an advocacy group devoted to addressing racial injustice and economic inequality, said in a statement.

More information on the ACCESS Act is available here.

By adopting the legislation, Massachusetts will send a clear message that every eligible citizens voice matters and deserves to be heard, Spalding continued.

According to an analysis provided by the advocacy groups, the legislation sponsored by state Senate Majority Leader Cynthia Creem, D-Norfolk/Middlesex, also would:

Decouple voter registration from the municipal Census, which would, if approved, ensure that not responding to the municipal census will no longer result in being dropped from the active voter rolls. (A companion House bill has been filed by Rep. Frank Moran, D-Essex)

Ensure uniform mail and absentee voting forms and ballots, which would, if approved, reduce costs and workload for local election officials, and reduce confusion from voters. (A companion House bill also has been filed by Rep. Shirley Arriaga, D-Hampden)

Strengthen accessible polling location oversight, which would, if approved, require the Secretary of State to inspect all voting sites at least once every four years to ensure they comply with federal and state disability accessibility laws. (A companion bill also has been filed by by Rep. Kay Khan, D-Middlesex)

Last year, former Gov. Charlie Baker signed a suite of election reforms into law. Those included the authorization of mail-in balloting in most elections; an extension of the states voter registration deadline from 20 days before an election to 10 days, and automatic voter registration. The reforms notably did not include same-day registration.

The bill now before lawmakers would build on that earlier progress, Pattye Comfort, the executive director of the Massachusetts League of Women Voters, said.

These reforms will ensure eligible citizens can vote and will reduce problems at the polls on Election Day, Comfort said.

Acknowledging the current political calendar, one advocate said the time is right for lawmakers to approve the new reforms.

Were in the thick of primary season, with the future of local government on the line in communities around the Commonwealth. Theres no more pressing time to call for greater access to the ballot, Traci Griffith, the racial justice program director at the ACLU of Massachusetts, said.

Every barrier that keeps people of color, renters, seniors, people with disabilities  or, for that matter, any qualified voter  from casting their vote is a barrier that urgently needs to be dismantled. This is what democracy looks like, Griffith said.
BOSTON  The Red Sox placed closer Kenley Jansen on the COVID-19 list and recalled lefty Brandon Walter from Triple-A Worcester, the team announced Wednesday.

Jansen tested positive after being removed from the ninth inning of Game 2 of Tuesdays doubleheader after feeling dizzy. He has been under the weather for a few days and has been seen wearing a mask in the clubhouse. Jansen must be away from the team for a minimum of seven days before being activated so he cant return until Sept. 20 at the earliest. Its more likely the Red Sox activate him when they return from their road trip and begin their next homestand against the White Sox on Sept. 22.

$200 INSTANT BONUS DRAFTKINGS MASS CLAIM OFFER BET $5, GET $200 BONUS BET FANDUEL MASS CLAIM OFFER BET $50, GET $250 BONUS CAESARS MASS CLAIM OFFER $1,000 FIRST-BET BONUS BETMGM MASS CLAIM OFFER MA only. 21+. Gambling Problem? If you or a loved one is experiencing problems with gambling, please call 1-800-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org for 24/7 support. LiveChat with a GameSense Advisor at GameSenseMA.com or call 1-800-GAM-1234 MA Gambling Helpline. MA only. 21+. Gambling Problem? If you or a loved one is experiencing problems with gambling, please call 1-800-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org for 24/7 support. LiveChat with a GameSense Advisor at GameSenseMA.com or call 1-800-GAM-1234 MA Gambling Helpline.

Jansen has 29 saves for the Red Sox so far this season and has posted a 3.63 ERA in 51 appearances. Its unclear who will close for the Red Sox for the next week but setup man Chris Martin is an obvious candidate.

Well see how it goes, said manager Alex Cora. Mix and match.

Enter your email address here to receive the Fenway Rundown email newsletter in your inbox every Wednesday.



Walter debuted earlier this season and has pitched 20 innings in the majors, allowing 16 earned runs (7.20 ERA). The 27-year-old lefty owns a 4.75 ERA at Triple-A Worcester. Walter last pitched Friday against the Orioles, allowing four earned runs on three hits in 1  innings. Before that was a brutal outing against the Royals on Sept. 1 when he allowed seven runs on 10 hits in four innings.

Wednesdays game was postponed and will be made up as part of a split doubleheader Thursday. Game 1 is at 1:35 p.m. ET and Game 2 is at 7:10 p.m. ET.
While Hurricane Lee is now expected to largely pass by Boston, Mayor Michelle Wu is urging residents to take precautions Friday and Saturday.

Our City departments have been preparing for every potential impact of this storm, and even as the projected path has moved further away from Boston, we are taking every step to be ready for the unexpected, Wu said. Our top priority is to ensure the safety of everyone in our communities, so please plan ahead to stay indoors if possible on Saturday and check on your loved ones and neighbors.

The center of the hurricane is expected to pass offshore of southern New England but the wider impacts will reach Boston overnight on Friday through Saturday, with the peak of the storm in the city around 6 a.m. Saturday.

Forecasters expect between 1 and 4 inches of rainfall as well as strong winds up to 30 mph, a potential storm surge of 1 to 3 feet and possible flooding in low-lying areas.

To prepare for the storm, Wu said at a press conference Thursday that city agencies have activated the emergency operations center, coordinated with the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency and Federal Emergency Management Agency and been in touch with Eversource and National Grid.

First responder teams, including the Boston Police Department and Boston Fire Department, as well as the Boston Water and Sewer Commission, will be ready to respond to any emergencies.

In addition, Boston Public Library and Boston Center for Youth and Families facilities will be open for regular hours in case residents need support or shelter. The city has also been in touch with Pine Street Inn and other local community organizations to be sure that homeless residents have shelter during the storm.

To prepare for the hurricane, residents are encouraged to put together an emergency kit including flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, copies of important information and non-perishable food items; make a family emergency communication plan; turn on the TV or radio every 30 minutes to get the latest weather updates; charge cell phones; trim or remove any damaged trees or branches on your property; secure loose gutters and downspouts; clear street catch basins to prevent unnecessary flooding; and check in with neighbors who may need assistance.

During the storm, residents should avoid driving whenever possible and avoid walking or driving through flood water.

In the event of an emergency or a downed wire, call 911. Do not approach downed wires. To report a downed tree, call 311. To report flooding, call 311 or the Water & Sewer Commission directly at 617-989-7900.

City officials said flooding and extreme weather are becoming more common due to the effects of climate change. In July and August of this year, Boston received more than 20 inches of rain. In a typical year, the city receives an average total of 44 inches of rain.
If Andy Rooney was writing this article, it may go something like this.

You ever notice that these Democrats have no problem yelling about more restrictive gun laws, but dont even enforce the ones we have now? Even if these laws were enforced, would that at all deter a lunatic ready to murder, that hed be entering a no-carry zone? Thats like the bank robbers backing off the robbery because theyd be jaywalking in their escape. And you know what really grinds my gears is that these same Democrats are the party that lets prisoners out well before their sentences are over. Here is a fun fact some of you in the audience might not know. Vermont has the highest percentage of registered gun owners with the least amount of gun violence. Not all Hunters have to give 10% to the big guy and are a threat to society.

I think we all know the difference between right and wrong. But Im scratching my head wondering if our judicial system does anymore. Laws are meant to be enforced and there should be no exception for the most despicable of crimes. I was shocked to learn the average sentences our judges are dolling out for rape is 14 years. Child trafficking, 16 years, and murder, only 17 years. Last week Enrique Tarrio, the leader of the Proud Boys, was sentenced to 22 years in federal prison. The Proud Boys are basically the Boy Scouts on steroids for right wingers in their 30s. Mr. Tarrio, an Afro-Spanish man, was not even in Washington that day, but for the great crime of organizing members to go the Capitol and protest he will spend decades behind bars. In comparison, the thugs in Minneapolis who burnt down the police precinct with officers still inside received a fraction of that sentence, if anything. You ever walk down the street in the dozens of cities where these BLM protests raged and youll see a lesser place then the rioters found. In our nations capital, the ironically understaffed Capitol Police force restored order that day.
The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) announces upcoming investor calls and meetings in New York, London and Paris, ahead of an inaugural USD Global Benchmark Sustainable Hybrid Capital transaction.

In July, S&P Global Ratings assigned an AA- rating to the proposed instrument  the highest rating for hybrid capital. The transaction will be issued in a Sustainable Bond format, under the Banks newly established Sustainable Bond Framework (https://apo-opa.info/3ED4kiv), and will finance a combined portfolio of eligible green and social projects.

BNP Paribas and Goldman Sachs International have been mandated as Joint Structuring Agents & Joint Global Coordinators, and Barclays, BNP Paribas, BofA Securities and Goldman Sachs International as Joint Bookrunners. The banking institutions will arrange a series of global fixed income investor calls and meetings, commencing Friday 15th September.

Hybrid capital will have a multiplier effect on the Banks financing, and allow for the issuance of additional green, social and sustainability bonds to finance projects targeting some of the continents most critical development challenges, including food security, access to water and sanitation, health services, and climate change.

This is a great new way to enhance a multilateral development banks capital base and optimise its balance sheet. The African Development Bank is starting a new asset class, hybrid capital, issued by AAA-rated multilateral development banks, said the Banks Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer, Hassatou NSele.

Acting Treasurer, Omar Sefiani noted:
Kim Davis, a government clerk in Kentucky, acquired fame among conservatives for refusing to issue a marriage certificate to a gay couple. Four-times-married Davis objects to gay marriage on religious grounds, but would not vacate the job that obliged her to administer the paperwork for them. Years later, the "find out" stage is at hand: a $100,000 court-ordered award for the couple.

A jury in Ashland, Kentucky, awarded David Ermold and David Moore each $50,000 after deliberating on Wednesday, according to lawyers for Davis  Bunning ruled last year that Davis violated the constitutional rights of the two couples. In the ruling, Bunning reasoned that Davis "cannot use her own constitutional rights as a shield to violate the constitutional rights of others while performing her duties as an elected official." The trials held this week were held to decide damages against Davis. The former clerk had argued that a legal doctrine called qualified immunity protected her from being sued for damages by the couples.

The solution to Davis's dilemma was, from the outset, to take the day off. She's in this pickle because she unconstitutionally imposed her religious beliefs on government business. That said, right-wingers see the case as an opportunity for the current U.S. Supreme Court to find some wedge to get more God into government: Davis's lawyer sees getting it in front of them as the whole point of the case.
A 43-year-old man who feared he would have to live with a tumor on his face for life was the first patient to receive a life-changing surgery on board the worlds largest civilian hospital ship, the Global Mercy yesterday (Sept 12th) in the Port of Freetown, following the ships recent arrival.

Father-of-one Emmanuel thought the small lump in his mouth was just toothache or a cold sore when he discovered it four years ago. But it continued to grow bigger on his lower face and medication did not stop it continuing to enlarge.

He had resigned himself to living with the tumor forever but he constantly worried that it would burst and complicate his health.

Yesterday, the Sierra Leonean who lives in Freetown became the first person to receive one of more than 2,350 surgeries planned for the Global Mercys 10-month stay in Freetown.

Emmanuel, who has kept the surgery a secret from both his son and father to surprise them after in person, said: I am so happy to be heading to the ship today. This is one of the happiest days of my life.

His aunt said: After surgery I hope he can come back and become a witness for what is possible.

Currently there are no fully certified maxillofacial specialist surgeons practicing in country for the population of 8.4 million people, according to Dr Mustapha Kabba, Deputy Chief Medical Officer  Clinical Services for Sierra Leones Ministry of Health and Sanitation.

Dr Kabba said: We have primary healthcare systems that are up and running, but we really need specialized people. He expressed his gratitude for Mercy Ships support with difficult surgeries of this nature.

International Chief Medical Officer, American Dr Mark Shrime and Swiss oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr Didier-David Malis performed the surgery, with Dr Shrime taking the lead. They were supported by a multinational team of professionals, who volunteered their time and expertise on this unique hospital ship.

Australian volunteer Hospital Director Keren Fuhrmeister said: The first day of surgery for us is the one weve all been waiting for, because it shows the start of our journey here.

We are not only providing the surgeries that our patients need, but we want to partner with the country of Sierra Leone to provide mentoring, training, and a platform where we can best serve our patients and strengthen their health system.

This is the sixth time a Mercy Ship has been in Sierra Leone since 1992. This time, the purpose-built Global Mercy, which only began full operations last year, will focus on bringing hope and healing through the following surgical specialties: Maxillofacial, General, Pediatric Specialized General, Orthopedic, Reconstructive Plastics, and Ophthalmology.

The Global Mercy is not just a hospital but also a floating training center, that will facilitate hundreds of hours of training in the coming ten months whilst docked in Freetown. Volunteer professionals on board, in collaboration with in-country partners, plan to train more than 200 healthcare professionals in a range of surgical education courses.

Over the course of five previous field services, Mercy Ships has partnered closely with Sierra Leones government to provide safe, free surgeries to a total of 9,548 patients.
A WESTPORT councillor has called for the new Citylink/GoBus service from Castlebar to Dublin Airport to be extended on to Westport.

Last month, private bus companies, Citylink and GoBus, announced a new joint bus service from Castlebar to Dublin Airport serving Claremorris, Tuam, Athlone (TUS), Dublin City and on to the airport. The new route, which comes into effect from September 25, is accessible seven days a week with six return journeys per day.

The route was officially launched by Minister of State, Jack Chambers on September 1 and was welcomed by Castlebar-based councillors.

However, Westport-based Independent councillor Christy Hyland told the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council that he would like to see the service extended onto Westport.

I would want the service extended ten minutes over the road on the new dual carriageway to Westport. We have a major tourist footfall with large numbers coming each weekend from Dublin Airport. I would ask the council to talk to the executives in GoBus to provide that service for us in Westport, he said.

Castlebar-based councillor Blackie Gavin welcomed the new route saying that it will be a great boost to the county town and that it is something they have been crying out for in the town for years.

Fellow Castlebar councillor Ger Deere also welcomed the new service, before poking a dig at his Westport colleagues.

I am glad we are leading the way in Castlebar compared to Westport with having the Lime bikes first and now the GoBus, he quipped.
Self-described "kitchen witch" Jennifer Billock, 40, practices the ancient magical art of tyromancy, a form of divination that involves looking at cheese to predict someone's future. The Chicago resident not only offers cheese readings but now teaches classes so that others can know what the mold, cracks, scent, and other factors reveal about one's destiny.

"When you go to a cheese shop and you ask about a piece of cheese, they tell you the whole backstory to it," Billock says. "So, I want people to think more critically about cheese and enjoy it for what it is as a whole  and I also want them to get a little insight into their own lives and their own desires and needs and wants and potentially their journey."

From Book Club Chicago:

Though some may dismiss Billock's work as hocus pocus, the practice of reading cheese dates back to ancient Greece and Rome in the second century. The craft came into prevalence in the Middle Ages when cheese magic was often used to sniff out a criminal from a lineup. In Billock's class at Uvae, participants were each given four pieces of cheese and a worksheet with space for notes and observations. With guidance from Billock, they noted different aspects of the cheese  a deep crack may hint toward a period of difficulty, while lines in the cheese may form a letter of someone significant in your life. Participants then worked to translate the clues by connecting them to their own personal thoughts, hopes and questions. The extra cheese goes home with the class-taker for enjoyment, though Billock said a large wedge or piece isn't necessary; even a handful of crumbles will do. Or, if someone really wants a comprehensive reading, up to 20 pieces of cheese can be used.

Unfortunately, American cheese singles apparently don't have enough character to deliver great insight or foresight.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, September 13, 2023

Delaware Governor John Carney this week signed a privacy law that gives residents the right to opt out of the use of their data for online behavioral advertising.

The Delaware Personal Data Privacy Act, HB 154, specifically provides that consumers can opt out of ads based on pseudonymous data collected over time and across nonaffiliated sites -- including data stored on cookies or through other identifiers. The law doesn't restrict companies from serving ads based on first-party data, or from serving contextual ads -- such as ads based on the content of a site or app where they appear.

The measure also requires companies to honor universal opt-out signals that consumers can transmit with mechanisms like the Global Privacy Control. That tool, developed by privacy advocates, sends an opt-out command to every website that consumers visit.

advertisement advertisement

Additionally, the law gives residents the right to learn what non-pseudonymous data has been collected about them, and requires companies to delete that data upon request.

Delaware is now the 12th state with a comprehensive privacy law, and the seventh state to enact such a law this year.

Other states that passed privacy laws this year include Florida, Iowa, Indiana, Montana, Tennessee and Texas. Five other states -- California, Colorado, Connecticut, Utah and Virginia -- previously enacted online privacy laws.

Most of those statutes require companies to let residents reject ad targeting based on pseudonymous data.

The Delaware law will take effect in 2025.
by Joe Mandese @mp_joemandese, September 14, 2023

It's hard to believe it's been two days since I wrote about Madonna, but she's back in TV advertising news thanks to Pepsi's decision to finally re-release the controversial "Like a Prayer" commercial she did for the cola brand 34 years ago.

The spot was quickly pulled back then, because of the backlash Pepsi got from religious groups saying it was sacrilegious. (Hey, her name is Madonna, and have you seen her act?)

Anyway, boy have both Madonna and the spot aged well (see above and at bottom).

It's not clear from Pepsi exactly why it re-released it now, but it has something to do with the brand celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, and at the very least it got a nice shoutout from Madonna on social media.

advertisement advertisement

Anyway, this got me thinking about both the indelible power of attention-getting TV advertising, as well as the connection to nostalgia, and I'm thinking of another brand that should re-release a commercial -- also featuring a striking blonde -- that only ever aired once.

I mean, it will be its 40th anniversary, and just in time for a Super Bowl buy next February.
by Steve McClellan @mp_mcclellan, September 13, 2023

Ashlee Clarke, CEO and owner of Empower Media, has been busy putting her stamp on the Cincinnati media agency she acquired in January.

The most recent examples are the hiring of Meta veteran and machine-learning expert Yating Sun as executive vice president and head of marketing science and longtime GroupM veteran Art Zambianchi as chief operating officer. Clarke has also made more effective integrated media measurement a top priority.

advertisement advertisement At Meta, Sun was global head of marketing science where shes credited with playing a key role in the development of Metas real-time media mix modeling platform, Robyn, designed to optimize media strategies.

Zambianchi is a 30-year veteran of the Chicago marketing community and most recently served as executive director for Mindshare, overseeing accounts and operations across the US network. Previously, he headed the Chicago office of Mediacom. Prior to joining GroupM, he was head of global advertising and brand for Motorola Mobility, where he helped launch the Android platform. He spent over a decade at Chicago agencies like DDB, Publicis/Hal Riney and Starcom.

Other recent senior hires at Empower:

Spencer Koch has joined as EVP, Managing Director; previously, he was managing director at GroupM at both Mindshare and Wavemaker.

Marijke Woodruff, a highly awarded executive with 24 years of experience at P&G, now assumes the role of chief people officer.

Brian McIntyre, renowned for his 22-year tenure at Publicis Hawkeye as COO and CFO, steps into the role of Empower CFO.

Paxton Song, former executive in eBay's performance marketing division, assumes the position of EVP, performance marketing, contributing his strategic prowess to Empower's dynamic team.

Lee Doyle, former GroupM executive and president of New York-based media agency NitroC (also owned by Clarke) joined Empower in March as EVP/group managing director.

Clarke is also focused on a key industry issue  exploring more effective integrated measurement solutions that will help reduce what the agency calls the $130 billion in annual media wastage.

To that end and in what the agency called a first, it hosted a two-day summit last month in Cincinatti that included agency client executives as well as representatives from Nielsen, VideoAmp, Comscore, and iSpot. Presentations focused on planning for what the agency described as the expected and continued media measurement and currency disruption across the modern media landscape.

Stated Clarke: "In the last year we have seen Nielsen single currency be challenged by the Big Data offerings of VideoAmp, iSpot and Comscore. We see many multi-currency options across media companies today and predict a significant number of media companies will eliminate currency choice in favor of exclusive partnerships  much like we have seen in-market with Comscore and Scripps, and VideoAmp and Allen. In the next 12 months, Clarke added, she anticipates more such partnerships, leading to further industry-wide media currency fragmentation.

That in turn will significantly impact the way media agencies and brands go to market in Q3, 2024, Clarke added.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, September 13, 2023

Lawmakers in the California Assembly on Wednesday approved the Delete Act, which aims to enable residents to easily remove their information from every data broker registered with the state.

The bill (SB 362), which passed by a vote of 43-11, is backed by privacy advocates but opposed by the ad industry and business groups.

The California Consumer Privacy Act already allows people to request removal of their information from data brokers, but on a company-by-company basis. The Delete Act, introduced earlier this year by Senator Josh Becker, builds on that law by requiring all data brokers in the state to honor a delete request made through a single mechanism.

Supporters including the digital rights group Electronic Frontier Foundation argue the bill will give people a practical way to exercise privacy rights that already exist.

advertisement advertisement

The statute helps us gain better control over our data and makes it easier to mitigate the risks that the collection and sale of personal information create in our everyday lives, the group wrote last month in a blog post.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta also expressed support for the bill, arguing in a recent letter to Becker that it's impractical to expect people to submit individual deletion requests to around 500 data brokers registered in the state.

The ad industry and other business groups lobbied against the Delete Act.

Chris Oswald, executive vice president for government relations at the Association of National Advertisers said Wednesday evening that the bill will encourage the mass deletion of data that is the lifeblood of Californias digital economy.

Ad organizations and other opponents previously argued to state lawmakers that the measure will hurt small businesses that rely on information provided by data brokers to find new customers.

Opponents also objected to a provision requiring data brokers to honor deletion requests submitted by consumers' agents. That provision could create a cottage industry of for-profit companies that are going to make requests on behalf of consumers, Oswald said last week.

On Wednesday, he reiterated that concern, saying the measure will enrich pay-to-play 'deletion' schemes that charge consumers hundreds of dollars a year for what is supposed to be a free tool.

Dan Smith, president and CEO of the Consumer Data Industry Association, which represents data brokers, separately stated the measure undermines fraud protections.

Current language in the bill appears to allow data brokers to maintain at least some information for security purposes -- even when consumers request to have their data deleted -- but opponents say the extent of that exemption is unclear.

The state Senate passed the bill earlier this year, and is expected to vote this week on recent amendments passed by the Assembly. Assuming the Senate approves those amendments, the measure will head to the governor's desk.

If enacted, the bill will take effect in October 2026.
by Tanya Gazdik , September 14, 2023

BMW of North America issued a statement refuting allegations made by Mozilla Foundation in its recent Privacy Not Included survey.

The automaker says it takes data privacy and the data security of its customers very seriously. The survey published on Sept. 6 includes several inaccuracies, per BMW.

We provide our customers with comprehensive data privacy notices regarding the collection of their personal information and allows vehicle drivers to make granular choices regarding the collection and processing of their personal information, per the statement. Further, we allow our customers to delete their data whether on their apps, vehicles or online. BMW NA does not sell our customers in-vehicle personal information and provides our customers the opportunity to opt out of BMW targeted behavioral advertising on the Internet.

advertisement advertisement

BMW was not alone in getting dinged by Mozilla Foundation. All 25 car brands Mozilla researched earned its Privacy Not Included warning label, which it says makes cars the official worst category of products for privacy that it has ever reviewed.

Mozilla Foundation has started a petition to ask car companies to stop collecting, sharing and selling personal information.

BMWs statement asserts that its collection of data relates to BMWs own marketing efforts, legal compliance obligations, law enforcement issues and related items.

Using commonly available web browser controls, BMW NA customers may opt out of data collection used to make inferences about drivers preferences and habits and to opt out of receiving marketing communications at any time, per the automaker.

The report expresses concerns over BMW sharing customer data within our family of companies and with third party dealers, service providers, and business partners.

BMW centralizes data collection and processing activities to create efficiencies and to better secure its systems, per the automaker. Additionally, BMW NA shares personal information with authorized dealers to better service our customers, and BMW NA customers choose which dealers they interact with.

Much like any other company in the world, BMW NA uses service providers to accomplish certain tasks.

For example, we may use an email service provider to send emails or use advertising companies to advertise, per the statement. These providers are contractually obligated to keep confidential any information BMW provides to them. They are also not permitted to use that information for their own purposes. Finally, we only share personal information with business partners when our customers request that we do so.

Regarding Mozillas comment that states: we can't quite tell if they share (or sell) all that data with other third parties for their advertising purposes as well, BMW says we would like to confirm that BMW NAs privacy policy explicitly states that BMW NA does not sell its customers personal information, such as their names, addresses, driving habits, Vehicle Identification Numbers, or other information that is tied to the customers or their vehicles.

Contrary to Mozillas report, BMW NA provides multiple avenues for every customer to completely delete their data, according to the automaker. The complete statement from the automaker can be read online.
Emboldened by the GOP's welcome embrace, Nazis are becoming increasingly overt in their actions to harm people who don't fit the "master race" profile.

Take the recent arrest of Pennsylvania Nazi, Benjamin Burton Brower Jr., 30, who was arrested for taping razor blades to a handrail at a Salvation Army Church.

Altoona police say Brower has a "large red swastika tattoo" on his chest.

The Altoona Police Department (APD) posted the following statement about the arrest on its Facebook page:

BENJAMIN BURTON BROWER JR. (30yrs old) was located and apprehended today by patrol officers after a felony warrant was obtained for BROWER yesterday evening following an incident at the Salvation Army Church. APD officers were dispatched to the Salvation Army Church, 1813 6th Ave, after BROWER was seen on surveillance cameras taping razor blades to the hand railing at the church entrance. BROWER was shirtless during the incident and identified by a large red swastika tattoo on his chest. BENJAMIN BURTON BROWER JR. is charged with Aggravated Assault, Institutional Vandalism, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, and other associated offenses. He was committed to the Blair County Prison in lieu of $10,000 straight cash bail.

From Law & Crime:

"Brower is charged with aggravated assault, institutional vandalism, recklessly endangering another person, and 'other associated offenses,' police said. He is currently being held in the Blair County Prison in lieu of a $10,000 cash bail."
by Wendy Davis , Staff Writer @wendyndavis, September 14, 2023

This week, a federal appellate panel unanimously blocked a California law banning gun ads aimed at minors, ruling that the measure likely ran afoul of the First Amendment.

While the decision doesn't directly deal with social media, the judges' sweeping statements about the First Amendment could give a boost to the tech industry, New York Times Company and other opponents of a California law that regulates how tech platforms display content to teens.

The new decision deals with a 2022 law that prohibits ads for gun-related products in a manner that is designed, intended, or reasonably appears to be attractive to minors.

The magazine Junior Shooters (which focuses on weapons-related activities and products) and others, including the gun rights group Second Amendment Foundation, challenged the law in court.

A trial judge upheld the measure, but a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals blocked the law on the grounds that it appears to wrongly restrict truthful speech.

Under our First Amendment jurisprudence, states can ban truthful and lawful advertising only if it 'materially' and 'directly' advances a substantial government interest and is no more extensive than necessary. California likely cannot meet this high bar, Circuit Judge Kenneth Lee wrote Wednesday in an opinion joined by Judge N. Randy Smith. Judge Lawrence VanDyke concurred in a separate opinion.

California officials unsuccessfully argued to the 9th Circuit that the law advanced a legitimate governmental interest in preventing minors from purchasing guns, and protecting people from gun violence.

The judges agreed the state had a substantial interest in those goals, but said there was no evidence the law would accomplish them.

In the end, California spins a web of speculation -- not facts or evidence -- to claim that its restriction on speech will significantly curb unlawful firearm use and gun violence among minors, Lee wrote. The First Amendment cannot be so easily trampled through inferences and innuendo.

The decision comes shortly before a different California restriction on speech -- the Age-Appropriate Design Code -- is due to take effect. Among other provisions, that law requires online companies likely to be accessed by users under 18 to prioritize their "best interests" and "well-being."

The tech industry organization NetChoice is currently seeking to block the measure, arguing that the mandate to prioritize young users' well-being violates the First Amendment.

"The 'harm' the law seeks to address -- that content might damage someones 'well-being' -- is a function of human communication itself," NetChoice wrote in recent court papers.

That organization added that terms like "best interests" and "well-being" are vague and subjective.

"A child whose relative died of COVID-19 may find news about the pandemic profoundly upsetting and be 'potentially harmed,' whereas another child would not," NetChoice argued earlier this year.

The New York Times Company and Student Press Law Center back NetChoice's challenge, arguing in a friend-of-the-court brief that the Age-Appropriate Design Code will unconstitutionally limit teens' ability to express themselves and to access lawful information, including news.

On Thursday, NetChoice flagged the new 9th Circuit case to U.S. District Court Judge Beth Labson Freeman in San Jose, who is expected to soon decide whether to block enforcement of the Age-Appropriate Design Code.
by Ray Schultz , September 14, 2023

Mother Jones has named Jamilah King as its editorial director, marking Kings return to the nonprofit news outlet after a stint as managing editor and deputy inequality editor at BuzzFeed. The appointment is effective October 16.

King had previously worked at Mother Jones for over four years in various roles.

For example, King hosted 180+ episodes of The Mother Jones Podcast, served as the race and justice reporter and wrote respected profiles of Black female officeholders and candidates, including Kamala Harris, Stacey Abrams, Lucy McBath and Carroll Fife.

advertisement advertisement

King hopes to deepen the nonprofit news outlets investigative journalism, and will especially focus on LGBTQ issues, racial justice and wealth inequality.

At BuzzFeed, King integrated business and editorial operations and spearheaded a revenue-generating direct sales program. She also supervised a team of reporters in various cities, including London, Delhi, Mexico City and New York City.

King was also the host of HBOs The Last Call Podcast, tied to a documentary series about gay men in New York being murdered in the early 1990s.

Im thrilled to have the phenomenally talented Jamilah King back on the team, says Clara Jeffery, editor-in-chief of Mother Jones.

Jones has a great ability to identify the underreported stories of our day and help reporters do the kind of careful excavation to bring them to light, Jeffrey adds.

In addition, her experience working in a variety of media dovetails with our multi-platform strategy, Jeffrey continues.
What began as another enclave of folks seeking a low-cost alternative to high San Francisco Bay area housing prices, has turned the Oakland estuary into a pirate's nest. Rogue live-aboards have been stealing from infrequently visited boats docked in the marina, surrounding businesses, homes, and each other. The situation has become such that the United States Coast Guard has been called in to police the matter.

The Coast Guard will bring sea and air power to the table. The pirates stand little chance. Oakland Mayor Thao says, "There has to be justice." Get ready for something comical or tragic.

Live-aboard communities have difficulty co-existing with municipalities in the SF Bay area. Sausalito has been trying to get rid of them since the 1960s. While they have always been less lawfully dutiful than more shoreward folk, a pirate war across the bay certainly won't help.

ABC7:
Retech Systems plans to add 40 jobs over the next decade, as part of the manufacturers $10 million expansion into the Town of Tonawanda.

Retech makes high-tech titanium melting furnaces for customers in the aerospace, defense and medical industries. The company says it has outgrown its current headquarters at the Northland Central complex, and will add leased space in the Town of Tonawanda, on Milens Road.

Another expansion set for Northland Corridor manufacturing hub The Buffalo Urban Development Corp. is moving ahead with plans to add another 41,000 square feet of light industrial workspace to the agency's manufacturing hub on Buffalo's East Side.

Plans call for Retech to add 40 jobs by 2033 and retain 48 existing jobs. Empire State Development will provide $500,000 through its Excelsior Jobs Program if the company meets its job commitments.

The expansion will allow Retech to expand its manufacturing capabilities and warehouse current inventory, according to Empire State Development.

Retech estimates the cost of its expansion project at $10 million. That includes installing a large industrial melting furnace at the Northland site, potentially installing two additional furnaces at the Tonawanda location, and moving equipment there.

The expansion is expected to be completed in stages, with the final steps likely to be completed in early 2025.

The new space is necessary to meet our manufacturing needs and allow the continued development of new technologies, both for Retech and our customers, said Earl Good, managing director and president.

Retech was based in California when it relocated virtually of its operations, including its headquarters, to Buffalo in 2020.

The 175 Milens Road property, near the Youngmann Memorial Highway, is owned by Uniland Development. Uniland bought the location last year from General Electric for $4.1 million.
The Peninsular War, 1808-1814

Victory at the Battle of Talavera, nearly 80 miles south-west of Madrid, in July 1809 was earned at a high cost in terms of casualties  some 5,000 allied losses for 7,000 French.

It was the conflict that made the reputation of perhaps the greatest of all British generals. Born in Ireland in 1769, Arthur Wellesley was 39 when he arrived in the Iberian peninsula  a lieutenant general and already the veteran of campaigning in India, but a commander without great experience on the hard fought battlegrounds of Europe. Six years later, he would return from Portugal and Spain a national hero, and be created a duke in recognition of his achievements.

When the Peninsular War began, Napoleon was at the height of his powers. Following victory in 1805 over Austria and Russia at the Battle of Austerlitz, the French emperor had achieved dominance in mainland Europe. In 1807, he moved to open a new front in his continuing struggle with Perfidious Albion, joining forces with Spain to occupy Portugal  Britains oldest ally  in an attempt to control maritime trade routes to the Continent.

The following year, he went further still: he occupied northern Spain; appointed his own brother, Joseph Bonaparte, as that countrys king; and thereby provoked thousands of guerrillas (Spanish for little war, a term first used for irregular forces during the Peninsular War) to take up arms in defence of their homeland. By August 1808, when Wellesley landed near Lisbon at the head of 10,000-strong army, the stage was set for an epic struggle.

Victory in July 1809 at the Battle of Talavera would see Wellesley ennobled as Viscount Wellington  but, over the years, the conflict would ebb and flow, necessitating no fewer than five separate British invasions of Spain using Portugal as a base. As we will see, the fighting would at times be brutal; incidences would also be recorded of looting, rape, and murder on an appalling scale, tarnishing the reputation of British troops. But, for all the ups and downs, the eventual victory of Wellingtons allied forces in the Iberian peninsula would play a pivotal role in the outcome of the Napoleonic Wars.

In our special for this issue, Graham Goodlad looks first at the events that led to Frances defeat in the Peninsular War; and then analyses in detail the sieges of Ciudad Rodrigo and Badajoz, whose fall opened Spain to the advance of Wellingtons army.

This is an extract from a special feature on Wellington At War from the October/November 2023 issue of Military History Matters magazine.

Read the full article online on The Past, or in the print magazine: find out more about subscriptions to Military History Matters here.
County authorities have tentatively identified a man shot in the head and buried in a shallow desert grave in Arizona nearly 30 years ago as being a former Army soldier.

The remains believed to be Sherman George -- who was once stationed at Fort Liberty, North Carolina, and said to frequent the desert with former Army friends -- were discovered in 1996 by two men running their dogs near the tri-state border between California, Arizona and Nevada, according to investigators and a forensic lab.

An investigator with the Mohave County Sheriff's Office confirmed that George was shot once and buried under a juniper tree outside of the city of Kingman, Arizona, where his remains were found. The investigator said that George was from California, but not much else is known about the man, who became estranged from his family in the early to mid-90s and was never reported missing.

Read Next: Lawmakers Reintroduce Bill to Expand Fertility Services to Service Members, Veterans

Now, with the help of DNA testing and genealogy mapping -- a technique that has been increasingly used by law enforcement to solve cold cases in recent years -- more information about George, and potentially what happened to him, is coming to light.

"The remains were discovered in 1996 ... and back at that time, the investigative techniques to identify him were obviously not as good as they are today," the investigator, who agreed to speak on background to discuss an ongoing investigation, told Military.com on Thursday.

"It's a tentative ID right now through a distant relative," the investigator said. "We want a closer family match for confirmation."

George's military background is unclear outside of a photo that the family provided to investigators. Military.com contacted the Army to see whether it had records available for a service member by his name, but because George was likely in the military decades ago, his records would be held by the National Archives and Records Administration, which requires a more lengthy search process, according to Bryce Dubee, an Army spokesperson.

Military.com asked the Army's Criminal Investigative Division, which stood up a cold case unit last year to help solve its more than 20 reported unsolved homicides, whether it was aware of George's case prior to him being identified by local authorities. It is unclear whether George was actively serving in the military at the time of his death.

"The Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division is aware of the discovery of these remains and is conducting an investigation in partnership with local law enforcement," Thomas Hamilton III, a spokesperson for CID, told Military.com in an email. "As the investigation is in its early stages, we cannot provide any additional information."

Around the time George was discovered, his remains were sent to the University of Arizona's pathology lab for testing, but testing in the '90s was fruitless because he had been buried for an estimated six to 12 months, his body was skeletonized and animals had disturbed the shallow grave.

Last year, however, the Mohave County Sheriff's Office began working with a forensic cold case company called Othram and sent eight unidentified remains' samples to its labs for testing, one of which was George's. Earlier this year, for example, Othram positively identified a Mohave Jane Doe as Colleen Audrey Rice, whose remains were discovered stuffed in a canvas sack in 1971.

"But if this does come to pass," the Mohave County investigator said of George's case, "then this would be the fifth identity confirmation of those eight."

Representatives from Othram did not respond to a request for comment from Military.com, but a press release published in DNASolves.com this week said that forensic evidence for George was submitted to the company's genetic testing lab in Texas.

"These leads revealed potential family members of the unknown man and subsequently he has been tentatively identified as Sherman George of Los Angeles County, California," the press release said. "Confirmation testing is underway."

As authorities and researchers look for additional evidence, they are asking the public for assistance. Anyone with more information on George can contact the Mohave County Special Investigations Unit at 928-753-0753, extension 4288.

-- Drew F. Lawrence can be reached at drew.lawrence@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @df_lawrence.

Related: Murdered or Missing: The Army Stands Up a Cold Case Unit to Tackle Unsolved Crimes
Senate and House Democrats are trying again to expand fertility treatments for active-duty personnel and veterans whose military-related disabilities render them unable to conceive without help.

Sen. Patty Murray and Rep. Rick Larsen, both Democrats from Washington state, along with Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., plan to introduce bills in their chambers Thursday that would cover in vitro fertilization, cryopreservation of eggs and sperm, and other health treatments for military family and veteran beneficiaries.

The Veteran Families Health Services Act would let service members freeze their gametes before deployment to a hazardous assignment and after injury or illness; would expand eligibility for assisted reproductive technology treatments to include military and veterans spouses, partners and surrogates; and expand adoption assistance at the Department of Veterans Affairs, among other things.

Read Next: VA Electronic Health Record Rollout Unlikely to Resume for a Year After Being Derailed by Problems

The announcement marks the second time the trio has introduced the legislation. In 2021, the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee debated the bill during a hearing, but it never made it out of the committee.

Duckworth, a double amputee and mother of two who used in vitro fertilization to become pregnant, said the legislation would help modernize the military and veterans health care systems.

"We must do everything we can to make sure our veterans receive the care and benefits they have earned, and that includes helping them fulfill their dreams of having a family," Duckworth said in a statement.

The proposed legislation comes as Congress wrestles to pass the fiscal 2024 National Defense Authorization Act and a defense funding bill. The House and Senate versions of the NDAA, which have yet to be reconciled, both address fertility services for active-duty service members and dependents.

The Senate bill would include fertility testing and artificial insemination in the standard military health benefit, but does not include in vitro fertilization.

The House's version of the defense bill also contains provisions pertaining to fertility services, although it stops short of expanding these benefits to service members.

Instead, it asks the Defense Department to study the issue and report back to Congress. An amendment sponsored by Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, D-Pa., would require the DoD to produce a report on its policies regarding the cryopreservation of troops' sperm and eggs as a tool for family planning and a safeguard against injury.

Another amendment from Rep. Jim Banks, R-Ind., would require the DoD to provide a report on the feasibility of providing baseline fertility testing services for Tricare beneficiaries.

Murray said she reintroduced the veterans family legislation because "it's obvious we should be doing everything we can to provide support and the options" military and veteran families need to build families.

"Service members and veterans have sacrificed so much for our country -- but they shouldn't have to sacrifice their ability to start a family," Murray said in a statement

The proposed legislation has the support of RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and Disabled American Veterans.

In their release, the lawmakers did not provide an estimated cost of the legislation. A 2022 report by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine put the cost of expanding service members' access to infertility treatments at roughly $1.6 billion over the next 10 years.

A 2021 survey of active-duty personnel and spouses by Blue Star Families found that 64% of responding service members reported having challenges starting their families. More than four in 10 active-duty families said the military made it hard to plan for their desired number of children or space their births.

The difficulties were even more significant among female service members, who reported family building challenges at more than double the rate of their male counterparts, 57% versus 28%.

Previous legislative efforts to expand fertility services, including IVF, to military personnel and veterans have been opposed by conservatives who oppose the creation of excess embryos that would need to be destroyed if unused.

Murray was instrumental in pushing through legislation in 2016 that expanded fertility treatments, including IVF, for severely injured veterans.

"Congress should take the long-overdue step of permanently overturning outdated limitations on IVF to give service members and veterans the opportunity to start a family," Larsen said in a statement.

 Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Military.com. Follow her on Twitter @patriciakime

Related: Nonprofits Are Filling a Void of Fertility Help for Service Members, But Hope Congress Steps Up
The United States said Thursday that it was sanctioning more than 150 businesses and people from Russia to Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Georgia to try to crack down on evasion and deny the Kremlin access to technology, money and financial channels that fuel President Vladimir Putins war in Ukraine.

The sanctions package is one of the biggest by the State and Treasury departments and is the latest to target people and companies in countries, notably NATO member Turkey, that sell Western technology to Russia that could be used to bolster its war effort.

The package also aims to hobble the development of Russias energy sector and future sources of cash, including Arctic natural gas projects, as well as mining and factories producing and repairing Russian weapons.

The purpose of the action is to restrict Russias defense production capacity and to reduce the liquidity it has to pay for its war, James OBrien, head of the State Departments Office of Sanctions Coordination, told The Associated Press.

The U.S. is sanctioning a newly established UAE company, which provides engineering and technology to Russias Arctic liquefied natural gas project, as well as multiple Russian companies involved in its development.

Putin wants the Arctic LNG 2 project to produce more liquefied natural gas and make Russia a bigger player in the energy market. In July, Putin visited the LNG site in Russias far north and said it would have a positive impact on the entire economy.

The U.S. package includes sanctions on several Turkish and Russian companies that the State Department says help Moscow source U.S. and European electronic components  such as computer chips and processors  that can be used in civilian and military equipment.

The department also is targeting Turkish companies that have provided ship repair services to a company affiliated with Russias Ministry of Defense.

Before the war, OBrien said, Russia imported up to 90% of its electronics from countries that are part of the Group of 7 wealthy democracies, but sanctions have dropped that figure closer to 30%.

Sanctions, he said, are effective and put a ceiling on Russias wartime production capacity.

Russia is trying to run a full production wartime economy, and it is extremely difficult to do that with secretive episodic purchases of small batches of equipment from different places around the world, OBrien said.

However, analysts say Russia still has significant financial reserves available to pursue its war and it's possible for Russia to import the technology it seeks in tiny batches to maintain defense production.

Russia could probably fill a large suitcase with enough electronic components to last for cruise missile production for a year, said Richard Connolly, a specialist on Russias defense sector and economy at the risk analysis firm Oxford Analytica.

Russia, he said, also gets a lot of electronic components from Belarus, so even if we whack all the moles, Belarus will still provide the equipment for as long as Lukashenko is in power.

Both Turkey and the UAE have condemned Russias invasion of Ukraine but have not joined Western sanctions and sought to maintain ties with Russia.

Russian Industry and Trade Minister Denis Manturov said this year that trade between Russia and the UAE grew by 68% to $9 billion in 2022, according to Russian state news agency Tass.

Despite countries still doing business with Russia, the State Department believes sanctions are working, OBrien said, noting that the way to measure success is on the battlefield.

Ukraine can shoot down most of what the Russians are firing, and that tells us that theres a gap, he said. The battlefield debris shows us Russia is using less capable electronics or sometimes no electronics at all.

Nonetheless, Russia has been pummeling Ukraine with frequent missile attacks, including two over the past week that killed at least 23 people in Ukraine.

This is partly because Russia is still getting hold of these electronic components and they are largely functioning as they did before, said Connolly, the Russia analyst.

The latest sanctions package targets multiple Russian companies that repair, develop and manufacture weapons, including the Kalibr cruise missile. But to really turn the screws on Russia, analysts say Western companies need to think twice before selling crucial technology to countries known to have a healthy resale market with Russia.

We need to work much harder with companies in our own countries to ensure that they are not feeding the re-export market, said Tom Keatinge, director of the Centre for Financial Crime and Security Studies at the Royal United Services Institute in London.

Many of them may be celebrating a rise in sales to the UAE or Turkey and not realizing, or not choosing to realize, that the rise is being driven by re-export business as opposed to genuine business happening in the UAE and Turkey, he said.

The United Arab Emirates has insisted it follows international laws when it comes to money laundering and sanctions. However, a global body focused on fighting money laundering has placed the UAE on its gray list over concerns that the global trade hub isnt doing enough to stop criminals and militants from hiding wealth there.

Turkey, meanwhile, has tried to balance its close ties with both Russia and Ukraine, positioning itself as a mediator.

Turkey depends heavily on Russian energy and tourism. Last year, however, Turkeys state banks suspended transactions through Russias payment system, Mir, over U.S. threats of sanctions.

Including the latest sanctions, the State Department says the U.S. has targeted almost 3,000 businesses and people since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

The United States and its allies and partners are united in supporting Ukraine in the face of Russias unprovoked, unjustified and illegal war. We will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.

The State Department also sanctioned a Russian citizen for being associated with the Wagner mercenary group and for facilitating shipping of weapons from North Korea to Russia.

Also targeted were a Russian oligarch who the State Department says has personal ties to Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and organized crime, as well as a Russian Intelligence Services officer and a Georgian-Russian oligarch. The State Department has said Russia's Federal Security Service worked with the oligarch to influence Georgian society and politics for Russias benefit.

___

Associated Press writers Suzan Fraser in Ankara, Turkey, and Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed.
The threat of a government shutdown -- and the missed paychecks it would mean for service members -- is growing after a chaotic week in the House that saw lawmakers unable to even take up a bill that would fund the Pentagon.

The House had been scheduled to vote this week on the fiscal 2024 defense appropriations bill. But members of the far-right Freedom Caucus and other staunch conservatives threatened to oppose a procedural motion on the bill because of demands unrelated to its content, prompting House Republican leadership to scuttle the planned vote.

Republicans are expected to try again next week to bring the defense spending bill to the floor. But it's unclear whether the outcome will be any different than this week, and the episode underscored the difficulty lawmakers face in finding a path to keep the government open at the end of the fiscal year in 16 days.

Read Next: Murder Victim Found in Shallow Arizona Grave in 1996 Tentatively Identified as Former Fort Liberty Soldier

"I'm worried about it," House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers, R-Ala., said Thursday about the prospect of a government shutdown. "People don't realize, that haven't been here since the 2013 shutdown, that the troops don't get paid. And that may be convenient for them. But if you're sitting in Niger in a trailer or in Poland or Romania or whatever, and you're not getting paid, it's not OK."

In 2013, when the government shut down for 16 days, lawmakers passed a bill just before the shutdown started to ensure troops wouldn't miss a paycheck.

Absent such a bill, service members in general can't be paid during a shutdown despite being considered essential employees who have to continue working.

For example, during the last shutdown in 2019, members of the Coast Guard, which is part of the Department of Homeland Security, went a month without pay and in some cases had to start relying on food banks. The rest of the military was unaffected in 2019 because Congress had passed a full-year Pentagon spending bill.

Lawmakers have until Sept. 30 to reach an agreement to fund the government for fiscal 2024. With so little time left, Congress has been expected to pass a short-term funding bill known as a continuing resolution, or CR, that essentially puts the government on autopilot until a more comprehensive funding agreement is reached.

But far-right lawmakers are balking at a "clean" CR, demanding that the bill incorporate policy priorities including eliminating "woke" Pentagon policies and fortifying the southern border. Those demands are nonstarters for Senate Democrats and the White House, making a shutdown more likely if neither side backs down.

"We're going to have a shutdown. It's just a matter of how long," Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., a Freedom Caucus member, told reporters Thursday.

Six Republicans representing different factions of the conference, including the Freedom Caucus, are in negotiations on a CR that could garner a consensus among the House GOP and that includes border security proposals, one Republican told reporters on condition of anonymity.

But even if the negotiations are successful, such a CR would likely be dead-on-arrival in the Senate.

The Senate, by contrast, has worked in a bipartisan manner to move forward on government funding. On Thursday afternoon, senators voted 91-7 on a procedural motion to advance a three-bill package that includes funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Still, even the Senate process hit a snag later Thursday when Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., objected to a package of proposed amendments, preventing the Senate from moving closer to final passage of the funding measure.

"Members cannot have it both ways," Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, the vice chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, said on the Senate floor after Johnson's objection. "They cannot block floor consideration of appropriations bills that were unanimously reported by the committee and yet maintain that they don't want an omnibus bill."

"It's one or the other," she said. "Or a government shutdown -- even worse."

Guidance released by the Pentagon this week on its plans for operations during a shutdown says that active-duty service members, including reserve component members on active-duty orders, would "continue to report for duty and carry out assigned duties."

"The department will continue to defend the nation and conduct ongoing military operations," the guidance says. "It will continue activities funded with any available budgetary resources that have not lapsed, as well as excepted activities such as those necessary for the safety of human life and the protection of property."

More than 400,000 civilian Pentagon employees who are "not necessary to carry out or support" essential activities would be furloughed, according to the guidance.

VA medical care and benefits processing are typically unaffected by shutdowns because the department receives some appropriations in advance, though some VA administrative work could be stalled.

Looming over the government funding fight is a threat from far-right House members to oust House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., from his speakership if he doesn't accede to their demands. In the wake of the conservatives derailing the defense spending bill, McCarthy reportedly dared his detractors to make their move during a closed-door meeting Thursday.

Amid the chaos, McCarthy vowed to press ahead on government funding bills next week.

"When we come back [after the weekend], we're not going to leave," he said at a news conference. "We're going to get this done. Nobody wins in a government shutdown."

-- Rebecca Kheel can be reached at rebecca.kheel@military.com. Follow her on X @reporterkheel.

Related: 'Woke' Pentagon Spending at Center of Upcoming Government Shutdown Fight
Two decades before founding the American Red Cross, Clara Barton was a humanitarian without a cause.

A former schoolteacher working as a clerk for the U.S. Patent Office in Washington, D.C., Barton would find it during the Civil War. A week after Fort Sumter was attacked, Confederate sympathizers assaulted a Union regiment from Massachusetts, Barton's home state, near Baltimore. The unit included some of her former students.

Four of those students died in the attack, and the casualties were transported to the Capitol, where Barton found the wounded "literally lying in the Senate chambers, but there is no one there to care for them," according to the American Heroes Channel.

That incident inspired Barton, who lacked formal medical training, to comfort wounded soldiers throughout the war -- tending to their injuries, reading to them and helping them write to their loved ones. She became known as the Angel of the Battlefield.

In early 1865, Barton began caring for two ill family members -- her brother, Stephen, and her nephew, Irving Vassall.

"Vassall, a government employee, had heard news that exchanged Union prisoners were returning in poor condition and that the government needed help notifying the relatives of those who were missing or had died in captivity," according to the Clara Barton Museum. "Vassall relayed the information to Barton in the hope that she might be able to offer assistance."

During the Civil War, no official method existed to document the whereabouts of missing or dead soldiers, making some degree of closure painstakingly difficult to achieve in most instances. Barton was undeterred, and with the blessing of President Abraham Lincoln, she opened the Bureau of Records of Missing Men of the Armies of the United States -- a long-winded name shortened to the Missing Soldiers Office -- in 1865.

The most fruit from the efforts of Barton and others was borne from revealing what happened at an infamous Confederate prison in Georgia called Andersonville. Constructed in 1864 nearly a hundred miles south of Atlanta, Andersonville was the largest of the 150 military prisons maintained during the Civil War, and its reputation was deservedly the worst.

As many as 45,000 Union troops were imprisoned at Andersonville during its 14 months of operation. They were treated terribly, as "nearly a third of them would die within the walls due to the poor sanitation, lack of food, widespread disease, and brutal conditions," a 2021 blog post from the Library of Congress notes.

The inhumane suffering that occurred at Andersonville might have been lost to history if not for Dorence Atwater, a Union prisoner who helped bury the dead there; "he kept a list of their names and location of their gravesites for the prison wardens," according to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Armed with copies of those lists that he surreptitiously took with him after his release, Atwater contacted Barton after seeing the first of five Rolls of Missing Men that the Missing Soldiers Office would publish.

That initial list included more than 1,500 names.

"The appearance of a man's name upon my roll is simply evidence that some friend is asking for him ... and the non-appearance signifies that he has not been inquired for, or there has not been time to get his name upon a roll," Barton said at the time.

This is a southeast view of the stockade at Andersonville Prison in Georgia in August 1864. (Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress)

In mid-1865, Barton and Atwater traveled to Andersonville on an Army expedition. As Atwater and other former soldiers recorded the graves of more than 13,000 men and marked them with headstones, Barton wrote letters to their families. After their work was complete, Barton was given the honor of raising the American flag for the first time over the recently established Andersonville National Cemetery, the National Park Service said.

After Andersonville, the Missing Soldiers Office faced a financial crisis. Barton was still solely bankrolling the efforts, refusing to take donations "on a matter of principle" and not accepting money from relatives seeking information about missing soldiers. The office remained open, thanks to congressional approval of $15,000 (equivalent to roughly $300,000 in 2023 dollars) to reimburse Barton for past expenses and to continue her work.

The Missing Soldiers Office closed in 1868, leaving behind an impressive level of accomplishment, according to Stephen B. Oates, author of "Woman of Valor: Clara Barton and the Civil War". The office received more than 63,000 inquiries, identified 22,000 soldiers, disseminated 99,000 copies of the Rolls of Missing Men and wrote nearly 42,000 letters.

"If it has been my privilege to lighten ever so little the heavy burden of grief which has been laid upon the hearts of our suffering people, or throw the feeble weight of my arm on the side of my country in her hour of trail, if I have made one heart stronger, or one war less bitter, I regard it as a blessing forever beyond my power to express," Barton wrote.

Exhausted from her efforts -- Barton kept her job at the Patent Office during this time -- her physician advised her to travel to Europe to relax. While overseas, Barton became familiar with the international Red Cross movement to aid those injured in war. She founded the American Red Cross in 1881 and served as its president until 1904.

Barton died on April 12, 1912, at the age of 90.

-- Stephen Ruiz can be reached at stephen.ruiz@military.com.

Want to Know More About the Military?

Be sure to get the latest news about the U.S. military, as well as critical info about how to join and all the benefits of service. Subscribe to Military.com and receive customized updates delivered straight to your inbox.
The United Auto Workers launched a long-threatened, but limited, strike against Detroit's three automakers on Friday  but not at any of the auto plants in the Buffalo Niagara region.

However, the reprieve for Western New York may be only brief, if the two sides can't reach a deal.

About 13,000 U.S. auto workers stopped making vehicles and went on strike at three Midwest production plants Friday after their leaders couldnt bridge a giant gap between union demands in contract talks and what Detroits three automakers are willing to pay.

Members of the United Auto Workers union began picketing at a General Motors Co. assembly plant in Wentzville, Missouri, a Ford Motor Co. factory in Wayne, Mich., near Detroit, and a Stellantis Jeep plant in Toledo, Ohio.

It was the first time in the unions 88-year history that it walked out on all three companies simultaneously as four-year contracts with the companies expired at 11:59 p.m. Thursday.

"Tonight, for the first time in our history, we will strike all three of the Big Three at once," UAW President Shawn Fain said in a Facebook Live address Thursday night, just before the deadline. "And if we need to go all out, we will. Everything is on the table."

But even with the strike underway, it's not clear whether the walkout will involve workers at any of the automakers' plants in the Buffalo Niagara region.

That's because the UAW isn't planning a blanket strike at any of the automakers. Instead, it's strategy is to stage selective strikes at targeted plants.

GM has an engine plant in the Town of Tonawanda and a components plant in Lockport. Ford has a stamped parts plant in Hamburg. The UAW represents about 3,000 workers across the three facilities.

There was no indication that the rest of the union would walk off the job yet  including those at the GM engine plant in Tonawanda, the GM components plant in Lockport, or the Ford Stamping Plant in Hamburg. The union said its strategy  called a "Stand Up" strike  will keep the automakers guessing and add pressure to negotiations.

That's a big change from the union's approach during previous negotiations. Instead of going after one company, led by its pugnacious new president, Shawn Fain, the union is striking at all three at once in order to strengthen its bargaining position as it seeks to bolster worker pay and benefits, and restore years of lost pay raises and other concessions.

But not all of the 146,000 UAW members at company plants are walking picket lines, at least not yet.

Instead, the UAW targeted a handful of factories to prod company negotiators to raise their offers, which were far lower than union demands of 36% wage increases over four years. GM and Ford offered 20% and Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler, offered 17.5%.

"As time goes on, more locals may be called on to 'Stand Up' and join the strike. This gives us maximum leverage and maximum flexibility in our fight to win a fair contract at each of the Big Three automakers," Fain said.

"This strategy will keep the companies guessing. It will give our national negotiators maximum leverage and flexibility in bargaining," he said.

Unionized workers at plants not selected to be part of a strike would continue working under the terms of the expired agreements on Friday, the UAW said. Fain said "most of the contract is still in effect," so "management cannot change the terms in the workplace" and "you cannot be fired or disciplined for no reason."

Non-striking locals "will be ready to walk out at a moments notice, pending direction from national leadership," the union said.

.

Industry observers say striking selected plants, rather than all of them at once, also helps the UAW preserve its $825 million strike fund. The UAW will pay striking workers $500 a week, with those payments becoming available on the eighth day of a walkout. The fund would also cover certain benefits, such as medical and prescription drugs. The UAW has about 146,000 members at the Detroit Three automakers.

It also limits the economic hardship on a significant number of UAW members, who will be able to continue working  and collecting their regular paychecks  as the targeted walkouts at other facilities continue.

Even Fain has called the unions demands audacious, but he maintains the automakers are raking in billions and can afford them. He scoffed at company statements that costly settlements would force them to raise vehicle prices, saying labor accounts for only 4% to 5% of vehicle costs.

They could double our raises and not raise car prices and still make millions of dollars in profits, Fain said. Were not the problem. Corporate greed is the problem.

The strikes capped a day of both sides griping that the other had not budged enough from their initial positions.

In addition to general wage increases, the union is seeking restoration of cost-of-living pay raises, an end to varying tiers of wages for factory jobs, a 32-hour week with 40 hours of pay, the restoration of traditional defined-benefit pensions for new hires who now receive only 401(k)-style retirement plans, pension increases and medical benefits for retirees, and other items.

Starting in 2007, workers gave up cost-of-living raises and defined benefit pensions for new hires. Wage tiers were created as the UAW tried to help the companies avoid financial trouble ahead of and during the Great Recession. Even so, only Ford avoided government-funded bankruptcy protection.

By contrast, the UAW argues that the companies are now well in the black, with $21 billion of combined profits for just the first half of this year. And their CEO salaries reflect that.

"Weve been working hard, trying to reach a deal for economic and social justice for our members," Fain said. "We have been firm. We are committed to winning an agreement with the Big Three that reflects the incredible sacrifice and contributions that UAW members have made to these companies."

The union is also seeking the right to strike over plant closings, noting that the three companies have shuttered 65 plants in the last two decades. It wants companies to have to pay UAW members to do community-service work if they shut down a plant. And it wants more paid time off for workers.

"Weve been open. The companies, the members and the public know what weve been fighting for. And weve been clear," Fain said. "We must show the world that our fight is a righteous fight."

The Ford plant that's on strike employs about 3,300 workers, and it makes Bronco SUVs and Ranger midsize pickup trucks. The Toledo Jeep complex has about 5,800 workers and manufactures the Jeep Wrangler SUV and Gladiator pickup. GMs Wentzville plant has about 3,600 workers and makes the GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado midsize pickups, as well as the GMC Savana and Chevrolet Express full-size vans.

The union didnt go after the companies big cash cows, which are full-size pickup trucks and big SUVs, and went more for plants that make vehicles with lower profit margins, said Marick Masters, a business professor at Wayne State University in Detroit.

They want to give the companies some space without putting them up against the wall, Masters said. Theyre not putting them right into the corner. You put an animal in the corner and its dangerous.

GM CEO Mary Barra told workers in a letter Thursday that the company is offering historic wage increases and new vehicle commitments at U.S. factories. GMs offer, she wrote, addresses what youve told us is most important to you, in spite of the heated rhetoric from UAW leadership.

On CNBC Thursday, Ford CEO Jim Farley said if Ford had agreed to the unions demands, it would have lost $15 billion during the last decade and gone bankrupt.
The Reds announced Thursday morning that theyve placed right-hander Tejay Antone on the 15-day injured list due to discomfort in his right elbow. Cincinnati also reinstated righty Ben Lively from the Covid-related injured list and selected the contract of right-hander Carson Spiers from Double-A Chattanooga. Right-hander Connor Phillips whod been up as a Covid-related replacement player, has been returned to Triple-A Louisville.

Antone, 29, only just returned from a two-year absence stemming from Tommy John surgery earlier this month. Hes pitched 5 2/3 effective innings, but the right-hander left last nights game with a trainer after experiencing discomfort in that surgically repaired elbow. While Antone downplayed the issue to an extent after the game, it seems the Reds have deemed a pause on his throwing is needed. Theres still technically enough time remaining on the schedule for Antone to return to the mound in the final three games of the season, but given the timing of the IL placement and minimal days left on the schedule, its possible his season will be over.

A healthy Antone is one of the most underrated relievers in the game. Hes only appeared in parts of three big league seasons, thanks largely to those health troubles, but in 74 2/3 innings dating back to 2020, the righty boasts a 2.41 ERA, 32.4% strikeout rate and 49.4% ground-ball rate. Antone has been a bit wild, walking 10.7% of his opponents in his young career, but the results are impressive all the same. The obvious hope for any player following an IL placement is that a major injury can be avoided, but itd be particularly disheartening to learn of anything severe for Antone after he only just completed a two-year grind back to a Major League mound.

As for the 25-year-old Spiers, hes already made his big league debut, allowing seven runs in seven innings between two appearances earlier this month. However, he was only on the roster as a Covid-related substitute player and was returned to Triple-A on Sunday. That process didnt require him to be optioned or passed through waivers. Now, hes been formally selected to the Major League roster, meaning hell be subject to standard option rules moving forward.

Aside from his brief MLB look earlier this month, Spiers has spent the entire season in Double-A. An undrafted signee out of Clemson following the shortened 2020 draft, hes pitched 83 innings of 3.69 ERA ball with the Reds Chattanooga affiliate, whiffing 29.2% of his opponents against an 11.3% walk rate.

Lively, 31, hasnt pitched in a game since Aug. 26. The right-hander enjoyed a solid three-year run in the Korea Baseball Organization from 2019-21 before returning to affiliated ball on a minor league deal with the Reds for the 2022 season. He re-upped with Cincinnati over the most recent offseason and this year reached the Majors for the first time since throwing one lone inning with the 2019 Royals. Hes pitched in 15 games (12 starts) for the Reds and eaten up 76 2/3 innings, albeit with a lackluster 5.17 ERA. To his credit, that number is skewed by one objectively calamitous start, wherein the Reds left Lively out there to take a 13-run beating in four innings against the Cubs. Lively has a 3.83 ERA in his other 14 appearances.
Wyatt Bargy wanted to take photos on a Lake Michigan beach at sunset with his steer.

Hed raised Lil B on his familys cattle farm in Kewadin as a 4-H project. The steer was 18 months old, more than 1,300 pounds and ready to be sold at auction. The photos would be part of the marketing materials.
HAMLIN TOWNSHIP, MI  Fall guided hikes are coming up at this popular Up North state park known for its expansive trail system.

The Friends of Ludington State Park host a guided hike at 2 p.m. on third Sunday of every month. The next two events could provide a taste of crisp Northern Michigan air along with a look at fall colors.

The next hike is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17, from the warming hut near the park entrance booth. Colors should be even better for the hike on Sunday, Oct. 15, which will start at the same time and place.

Each hike will be led by two volunteers and cover different areas of the park. The route, pace and length will depend on the interest of the participants.

Fall colors in the Ludington area will likely peak Oct. 14 to 21, according to MLive meteorologist Mark Torregrossa.

Ludington State Park is located at 8800 M-116 in Hamlin Township, just north of Ludington.

Make your visit a full day by having lunch or dinner on a patio or deck in the area. Use this list to pick a place: 5 places to eat outdoors in this Up North beach town this fall.

Not going to be in town during the guided hikes? Check out these Ludington State Park trails on your own:
CHEBOYGAN, Mich. (AP)  Residents near a Northern Michigan paper mill that caught fire Wednesday, prompting the closure of several roads and a lock and dam on a nearby river, have been told to shelter in place until Thursday afternoon as environmental officials continue monitoring local air quality.

Plumes of thick and heavy black and gray smoke visible for miles around billowed from the Tissue Depot property along M-27 in downtown Cheboygan.

Officials said fire crews had contained the fire to a storage building at the mill as of 4:45 p.m. Wednesday, but asked people to avoid the area as crews continue battling the fire.

Cheboygan Fire Chief Don Dailey said no mill employees or firefighters have been injured.

Firefighters work to put out a fire that started at the Tissue Depot in Cheboygan, Mich., Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The fire at the northern Michigan paper mill closed several roads Wednesday and prompted city officials to tell residents to shelter in place, while state police warned people to stay away from the area. (Jared Greenleaf/Cheboygan Daily Tribune via AP)AP

He said the fire started in a part of the mill where no employees were working at the time. Crews were alerted that there were several tons of plastic stored in the building, Dailey said. He said there wasnt enough left of the damaged structure to determine an actual cause because the roof collapsed about 10 minutes after we got here.

We are tearing it down as we put the fire out, so we probably arent going to be able to determine an official cause, he said Wednesday.

Cheboygan residents living with a 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) radius of the Tissue Depot were told to continue to shelter in place until 1:30 p.m. Thursday out of an abundance of caution, the Cheboygan County Sheriffs Department said in a Facebook post.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency was monitoring local air quality and EPA officials were expected to meet Thursday morning with city and county officials to discuss the air quality findings, the sheriffs office said.

Staff with Michigans Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy were sent to Cheboygan on Wednesday afternoon to help assess the situation, spokesman Jeff Johnston told The Associated Press in an email.

The nearby Cheboygan Lock and Dam, which allows boats to navigate the different levels of the Cheboygan River, was temporarily closed.

Trisha Leask, an employee at a convenience store a few blocks from the fire, said she noticed the smoke Wednesday morning.

The smoke billowed for hours. It looked like black storm clouds, Leask said, adding that its not the first time the property has caught fire.

Formerly known as Great Lakes Tissue Co., the mill once employed about 300 workers.
BENZIE COUNTY, MI  A motorcyclist has died after he crashed into the back of a pickup truck in Northern Michigan.

According to the Benzie County Sheriffs Office, the crash occurred near Fewins Road and Burnt Mill Road in Inland Township at approximately 10 p.m. on Wednesday.

Deputies say a 2016 Dodge Ram driven by Kyle Poff, 44, of Interlochen was traveling westbound on Fewins Road when it was struck from behind by a 2015 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Sam Edward Kangas, 53, of Interlochen.

Kangas was pronounced dead at the scene. Poff suffered minor injuries.

Deputies say speed was a factor in the crash. Kangas was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

The incident is under investigation.

READ MORE:

Police use drone to round up missing horses near U.P. border

Police justified in fatal 2022 shooting of Lansing man, attorney general says

Body of Chicago man recovered from Lake Michigan
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - Donald Staebler died at age 106, but his legacy  a farm outside Ann Arbor he moved to just shy of his second birthday in 1912  was secure.

It would never be developed and henceforth became open to the public as a Washtenaw County park. At Staebler Farm County Park, planners wanted to honor the trades Staebler and his family used to sustain themselves and the farm for decades, from canning to leather to woodworking.

We had the wonderful vision but we looked each other in the parks department, and we said how are we going to pull this off? This is a great vision, but Im not a farmer, said Coy Vaughn, county Parks and Recreation Commission director.

Fast forward to today and not only is that vision flourishing, but its set to expand with the official opening of the Blackbird Lodge, a new multipurpose building that will house more classes from the Michigan Folk School, an institution at the park that seeks to preserve the functional crafts that can be lost when people of Staeblers generation pass on.

Students learn to forge knives at the Michigan Folk School in Superior Township on October 22, 2022. The Michigan Folk School, based at Staebler Farm County Park, offers a variety of classes teaching traditional crafts like knife forging and wilderness survival, and is set to be acquired by the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission.Ryan Sun | rsun@mlive.com

They just happened to be a folk school that was looking for a park, looking for a home, and we were a park looking for a folk school, said Vaughn, speaking at an opening ceremony at the new lodge on Tuesday, Sept. 12. So we started out dating.

An initial 2017 lease for the school at Staebler Farm County Park on Plymouth Road in Superior Township, also home to a 150-year-old farmhouse, blossomed into a greater union. Late last year, the Parks and Recreation Commission acquired the Folk School, bringing the nonprofit under the countys umbrella as one of the only publicly-owned institutions of its kind in the nation.

Read more: Historic Washtenaw County farm set to become permanent home for folk school

In late 2021, the commission also OKd a roughly $3.8-million bid to build the new, 5,800-square-foot multipurpose building, designed by planning and architecture firm The Collaborative and now christened the Blackbird Lodge.

Its part of a phased development plan for the park and represented the first major new construction project at a county park since the opening of bathhouses at Rolling Hills Water Park and the Blue Heron Bay splash pad at Independence Lake in 2013, officials have said.

Inside the Blackbird Lodge, the new expansion of the Michigan Folk School at Staebler Farm County Park in Superior Township, Michigan, on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. Christina Merrill | MLive.comChristina Merrill | MLive.com

The building offers office space for Folk School staff, two additional classrooms and a learning kitchen that can house courses on everything from canning to cheesemaking, said Ginny Leikam, superintendent of park planning with the county parks system.

Since the parks began to partner with the Folk School in 2017, that collaboration has only grown. The Folk School began by renovating a workshop space at the historic farmstead in the park, she said.

We always had plans to build a new facility to be able to expand classes, so thats what the Blackbird Lodge at the Michigan Folk School is, Leikam said.

The Folk School is now growing and plans to go from 275 courses in 2023 to more than 400 courses in 2024, said Jason Gold, park manager at Staebler Farm and director of the school. One of the new classrooms will be used as a studio space with semi-permanent set-ups for crafts like stained glass or fiber arts that will allow students to return after class during the week to work on their creations, he said.

The vestibule and bathrooms in the building will be open seven days a week for park visitors, with the building open during park hours, Gold added. Classes begin in the space this month, he said.

For Jo Ann McCollum, a county parks commissioner, the new lodge is a good opportunity for people of all ages to participate in activities like making brooms, working with metal or fashioning homemade spoons from wood.

I know generations ago used to make (them) out of necessity, and now we can make them out of fun and feel accomplished, she said. We need a place where we can go and we can do those things that make us feel good about ourselves, about our community and bring it home and spread it in our community there too.

Examples of crafts made in Michigan Folk School classes inside the Blackbird Lodge at Staebler Farm County Park in Superior Township, Michigan, on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. Christina Merrill | MLive.comChristina Merrill | MLive.com

All of the it loops back to 1912 and Donald Staeblers arrival on the land as a toddler, Vaughn said. With the Blackbird Lodge, a through line connects that moment to what will come next.

This building kind of represents the future of this site, he said.

Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter.

More from The Ann Arbor News:

5 things to know about the Ann Arbor psychedelic shroom fest this weekend

Americas bike mayor coming to Ann Arbor, area cyclists invited to join in social ride

Ann Arbor School Board approves resignation agreement with superintendent

All-electric buildings, EV park coming with set of new Ann Arbor-area car dealerships
Fall is approaching. People are spending more time inside. Children are back in school.

And, as has become commonplace, confirmed cases of Covid-19, along with hospitalizations and deaths, are on the rise.

Pandemic Lessons: Is the virus even still around? This has been a summer seemingly without Covid-19. But is that because the virus has actually simmered down? Or are we simply tired of talking and thinking about it?

But the impact and spread of Covid-19 now are nowhere near what they were during the worst of the pandemic era, according to public health experts.

To try to prevent an even steeper increase this fall and winter, a new Covid-19 vaccine that protects against the newest and most prevalent variants of the virus will be available as soon as this Friday.

I just got off the phone with the FDA, Gov. Kathy Hochul said Wednesday. The Covid vaccine is on its way to New York.

What you should know as Covid-19 cases again tick up in Western New York While Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations are beginning to tick up, both remain low versus prior years. Still, officials are taking precautions as school returns and colder weather nears.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is recommending everyone over the age of 6 months get the shot. Those who have received a Covid-19 vaccine previously would need only one dose. Those who havent should have two.

On Wednesday, websites for drugstore chains in Buffalo were already promoting that appointments would be available for the latest Covid-19 vaccine shots.

This is not the bad old days, Hochul said. But shame on us if we dont see the warnings, take precautions to be ready and know this can spread very quickly.

Much has changed in the three and a half years since Covid-19 upended life across the globe, as vaccines were formulated and fine-tuned, the virus mutated and people developed immunities.

Mask and vaccine mandates have largely disappeared. Social distancing measures are a thing of the past. People have  mostly  resumed their normal ways of life.

And remember three years ago when former Gov. Andrew Cuomo held daily Covid-19 news updates? Hochuls Covid-19 briefing with the media on Wednesday was actually the first Covid-19-specific news conference she has held in a year.

Hochul did not announce any new mandates or executive orders Wednesday, although she said she sent letters to every nursing home in the state reminding them that they must make the vaccine available to all residents. She also recommended nursing homes and educational facilities ensure they are well stocked in masks and tests.

Hochul said she is particularly concerned about newborn babies, with reports that hospitals are seeing an uptick in cases of infants sickened by Covid-19.

She encouraged as many people as possible to get the vaccine, noting that last fall, many people didnt get the booster made available then. Nationwide, only about 20% of American adults got the bivalent booster a year ago, the New York Times reported.

Previous vaccines and prior exposure to the virus is not protecting you today, Hochul said. You dont have the immunity built up for this.

Since mid-summer, Covid-19 cases have been steadily creeping up across the country and in Western New York. There were days this summer when there were just five positive cases in Western New York reported to the state Health Department. Over the last couple of weeks, that figure has risen from several dozen a day to more than 150.

But that figure isnt nearly as reliable in measuring the spread of the virus, with many people using home-administered tests, the results of which arent reported or counted officially.

Yet, hospitalizations and deaths have shown an increase in the last couple of months, as well. Nationwide, the CDC has recorded a 16% weekly increase in hospitalizations for the week ending in Aug. 26. Deaths rose during that week by nearly 18%, according to the online medical news site Medscape.
FLINT, MI  Mott Community College President Beverly Walker-Griffea was recently named as a finalist for the position of Kentucky Community and Technical College President.

Walker-Griffea was named along with two other finalists  Dean McCurdy, provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs at Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana and Ryan Quarles, the commissioner of Agriculture in Kentucky.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - The downtown streets were already hustling and bustling Thursday afternoon, the first day of ArtPrize 2023, with art enthusiasts eager to get a sight of this years entries.

Muskegon native Bethanny Thom said it was the perfect day to kickoff the 18-day international art competition in Grand Rapids as she toured the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum venue looking at various works from artists from around the world.

I feel like there are not as many big sculptural elements as there usually are, which can be good because it makes people look at other things, Thom told MLive/The Grand Rapids Press Thursday, Sept. 14. I think the giant sculptures tend to take over.

She mentioned a perspective piece she saw at The B.O.B. called Exploring the Infinite, which she described as something she wouldnt have thought twice about if there were bigger pieces of art.

Amy Bonney, who flew in from Texas to see family, was looking for something fun to do. She said she and Thom chose to go to ArtPrize instead of the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA).

Dont get me wrong, the DIA is awesome, but to be able to wander around is pretty cool, Thom said. Its not too hot or cold out; Its the perfect day for ArtPrize.

Related: Your guide to ArtPrize 2023

ArtPrize 2023 kicked off Thursday, Sept. 14, drawing visitors from Michigan and across the country to downtown Grand Rapids. An opening night party is happening from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday at Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 220 Front Ave. NW.

The 18-day international art competition features just under 700 entries on display at 150 venues and features $400,000 in prize money awarded based on public input and jurors. In 2011, by comparison, the event saw more than 1,500 entries.

This year marks the first time the event is being held under a new leadership team, coined ArtPrize 2.0., consisting of Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., the city of Grand Rapids and Kendall College of Art and Design of FSU.

Related: Exciting year of evolution. Grand Rapids preps for launch of ArtPrize 2023

This year also marks the return of large cash prizes for public vote winners.

Visitors with mobile smartphones can sign up to vote through ArtPrizes website on mobile smartphones. Voting is done through the ArtPrize mobile website by scanning an entrys QR code and voting for it. To sign up to vote, visit experience.artprize.org/vote.

Visitors can vote for as many entries as they want per day. However, you cant vote for the same entry more than once.

Frequent visitors to the anticipated event may notice some changes from years past. Charlotte resident Dwight Peebles said he was used to seeing large artwork along the river and throughout downtown, but that it wasnt the case this year.

You dont want it to die down, but we did notice a little bit that it doesnt seem as full as it usually is, Peebles said. But I do like that it does seem more centralized in a ten-block area, which is really nice. Everythings just starting.

People began flocking to downtown Grand Rapids on Thursday around lunchtime, visiting exhibits at DeVos Place, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, Ah-Nab-Awen Park, and Monroe Center Street NW.

Artist Joel Gittrich, who traveled from Illinois this week, said this isnt his first time entering ArtPrize. He said that he was the vision behind the 2017 stone chairs work titled The Stone Thrones of Ptown.

Gittrichs entry this year, FinTanium, consists of a large mobile fish sculpture that is made entirely of anodized metal, or metal that changes color when it hits electricity.

This is me showing everybody else whats inside my head, he told MLive. Everybody loves it. You dont get a whole lot of metal thats got color in it, which was the whole thing I wanted. Its fluid and a lot of fun.

Related: Exciting year of evolution. Grand Rapids preps for launch of ArtPrize 2023

Rosemary Kavanaugh, another returning artist from Bay City, said she has been showing with ArtPrize since 2009. She said her entry this year, Migrant Worker Dress, is a recycled painting that she created for ArtPrize years ago.

Its been a lot busier today than I thought it would be, Kavanaugh said. I think it just has a better, peaceful feeling. Its more professional with the artists in the way ArtPrize is sectioned off.

ArtPrize 2023 runs from Sept. 14 to Oct. 1.

Want more Grand Rapids-area news? Bookmark the local Grand Rapids news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Grand Rapids daily newsletter.

Read more:

Vote now for the best place for pizza in the Muskegon area

Grand Rapids Public Library offers free access to board games, area attractions

New authentic West African restaurant opens near Grand Rapids

Its just a big party, Big Lake Brewings Oktoberfest is back with great beer, food
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  An Oakland County businessman was sentenced to prison for bribing former state House Speaker Rick Johnson while Johnson led a board that granted medical-marijuana licenses.

John Dalaly, 71, was sentenced Thursday, Sept. 14, to two years, four months in prison by U.S. District Judge Jane Beckering in Grand Rapids.

Beckering said bribing public officials erodes confidence in government and institutions.

It must be made known to the public that bribing a pubic official is unacceptable in the United States of America, Beckering told Dalaly.

She noted that Dalaly was considered a respected family man, married 45 years with three daughters, and had not been in trouble with the law before. She said he acted out of greed in an effort to obtain highly sought-after licenses for medical-marijuana facilities.

Dalaly paid Johnson $68,200 in cash and gifts in 2018. That included private chartered flights to Canada via companies Dalaly operated. One was a dispensary, while the other was to be a digital currency platform for marijuana transactions, the plea agreement said.

Related: Businessman pleads guilty in marijuana bribery case involving former Michigan House speaker

Johnson was chairperson of the now-defunct medical-marijuana licensing board. He was Speaker of the House from 2001 to 2004.

Johnson and two lobbyists, Tyler Brown and Brian Pierce, have also pleaded guilty to charges in the case. Johnson is set to be sentenced on Sept. 28, while Brown and Pierce will be sentenced Oct. 18.

Dalaly said that Johnson recommended he use his wife, Jan, as a consultant and paid her $4,000 a month to help navigate the then-new industry.

As part of Johnsons plea deal, his wife was not charged. Outside of the courtroom, Dalalys attorney, Raymond Cassar, said that Johnsons wife should have been charged, too.

He had asked that his client be confined to his home, rather than incarceration, given his age and health. He said it was apparent that the judge wanted to deter others from getting involved in bribery schemes.

Cassar said earlier that Dalaly acted as facilitator to a Canadian marijuana investment company, PharmaCo, but did not own or work for the businesses. Last year, Red, White & Bloom reportedly acquired its Michigan operations with 21 medical and recreational licenses.

Cassar said his client was the first to come forward and admit guilt. His cooperation will get him labeled as a snitch, or cooperator, in prison as well as the community.

Cassar also emphasized that his client had no role in allegedly paying a sex worker for Johnson.

Federal prosecutors on Thursday, in detailing bribe payments to Johnson, wrote: Additionally, at Johnsons request, Pierce paid a total of $2,000 to the woman who had commercial sex with Johnson. Those amounts do not include other miscellaneous benefits provided to Johnson by Pierce and Brown, including tickets to sporting events.

Related: Ex-Michigan House speaker, 3 others to plead guilty in marijuana bribery probe

Dalaly, in an emotional statement to the court, said: I am ashamed, hurt  sorry for what I did to my wife of 45 years, my three daughters  . Im beyond remorseful for my actions.

He said he cannot sleep and thinks about the bribery case every day.

The hurt, the pain and the shame Ive brought to my family.  My family has been punished.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Clay Stiffler said Dalaly made 25 bribes over the course of 14 months. He discounted the notion that Dalaly did not understand how the medical-marijuana business worked and was just seeking help.

They knew these were bribes from the get-go, he told the judge. He said that Dalaly initially lied to investigators about his involvement before he decided to cooperate.

He said that Dalaly corrupted the process of the industry that brought in $2.3 billion last year in Michigan.

This is not a mistake. Its not a bad decision. Its an ongoing course of conduct, he said.

Federal prosecutors, however, asked that his cooperation with investigators be considered at sentencing.

The judge allowed Dalaly to self-surrender to prison after the direction of the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. He was fined $25,000. Once his prison sentence ends, he will spend two years on supervised release.

Read more:

Pilot dead, missing plane found crashed in Southwest Michigan

Lead testing requirement for kids nears approval by Michigan officials

Where Michigan road construction could affect weekend traffic

A Michigan police chief broke a finger defending a no-hats rule in 2006. The rule may change.
NEWAYGO COUNTY, MI  A health care provider that operates a school-based health clinic in a West Michigan school district has been ordered by the school board to take down a mural containing LGBTQ imagery.

The Grant Public Schools Board of Education voted on Monday, Sept. 11, to authorize a new contract with Family Health Care, the provider that operates the Child and Adolescent Health Center located inside Grant Middle School, after over a month of contract negotiations between the two parties.

The new contract stipulates the health clinic must remove the mural, which was painted by a student who won an art contest, by the end of October, Superintendent Brett Zuver told MLive/Muskegon Chronicle.

RELATED: After LGBTQ mural controversy, West Michigan school board in talks to keep district health center

The mural was engulfed in controversy last year, after some community members expressed concerns that it had LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning) imagery.

In a statement Monday, Family Health Care spokesperson Alan Neushwander said the mural highlighted diversity and inclusion, values that are important to the health care provider.

While it is disappointing that the mural must be removed by the end of October, its a compromise we reluctantly were willing to accept to ensure the children of the Grant community continue to have access to medical and behavioral health care, Neushwander said in the statement, which can be viewed in full here.

The new contract also requires the clinic to begin paying the school district a minimal fee in order to use the clinic space inside Grant Middle School.

Family Health Center has been operating inside the school since 2010 under an agreement where Grant Public Schools provided the space for the health center, and the clinic covered all other operating costs for the center.

Zuver described the agreement as an in kind service where the district assumed the costs of providing the space, like keeping the space clean and heated and keeping the lights on.

In return, our families got fantastic health care at no cost, he explained.

The new contract requires Family Health Care to assume those costs, which will amount to a minimal fee around $100 a month, Zuver said.

However, the superintendent said several community members and philanthropic organizations have since stepped up and offered to cover that cost for the clinic, through donations and potential grant funding.

Zuver said hes grateful the school health clinic will be allowed to remain at the middle school under the newly-approved contract. The center offers everything from medical and dental care, to vision, hearing and mental health services to Grant Public Schools students, all at no cost to families.

Theyve been here for a long time and have done a fantastic job for countless students, countless families, and Im just so thrilled to be able to continue our partnership with them, Zuver told MLive Wednesday, Sept. 13. Theyre a very, very valuable component to our community and to our school district.

In June, the Grant school board abruptly voted to end its contract with the clinic, in a resolution that was added to the agenda last-minute during a board meeting. After facing backlash from the community, the board decided to reenter contract negotiations with the clinic a month later.

The Grant Board of Education has not publicly linked the mural to its decision to end the contract. The board published a letter on July 23 saying it terminated the contract due to multiple concerns with the agreement, but did not identify any specific concerns. Board President Ken Thorne did not respond to calls or emails from MLive/Muskegon Chronicle about the specific concerns.

A recall petition has since been launched by a group of Grant residents seeking to remove the four school board members who voted in favor of terminating the health clinic contract in June. Those four are trustees Rachal Gort, Richard Vance and Sabrina Veltkamp-Blok, and board president Ken Thorne.

Grant resident Josh Stein, who filed the petition, said the Newaygo County Clerks Office certified the language of the petition on Aug. 15, giving the group the go-ahead to begin collecting signatures. He said they need 1,091 signatures by February to get the petition on the May 2024 ballot.

Stein said the group is continuing its efforts to recall the four board members even though the board voted on a new contract with the clinic this week.

We are extremely grateful that the health center has a new contract to allow them to continue to provide those services in the community, Stein told MLive on Sept. 13. However, we feel that the board members who started the process of removing the health center arent acting in the best interest of the students and community.

We dont feel that theyre good stewards of the responsibility that they have as board members to promote the stability in the community.

Want more Grand Rapids-area news? Bookmark the local Grand Rapids news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Grand Rapids daily newsletter.

More on MLive:

Vote here for the best spot to get pizza in Grand Rapids

Whats that off U.S. 131? Construction of $28M building is making headway

Here are the 10 highest rated Grand Rapids area high schools in the new U.S. News rankings

Yes for GR Kids campaign kicks off in support of $305M Grand Rapids school bond
JACKSON COUNTY, MI  A school employee accused of possessing child pornography was arrested this week.

Corey Michael Wilson was arraigned Wednesday, Sept. 13, on child pornography charges after an investigation by the Blackman-Leoni Township Department of Public Safety and the Michigan State Police Computer Crime Division.
JACKSON COUNTY, MI -- A conversation about racism and harassment at Jackson College had the volume turned up Thursday when dozens of students gathered on campus in an hour-long protest.

More than 30 Jackson College students -- the majority of them Black -- gathered near the clock tower at the center of campus Sept. 14, in an attempt to get college administrators to address issues of racism and harassment they say theyve experienced at the school.

The primary speaker of Thursdays event was student NaTiyah Montgomery, 19, who earlier in the week had addressed members of the Jackson College Board of Trustees about many of the same issues.

Related: Do you care about your Black students? Jackson College students allege racism, harassment

As a Black woman, I have to walk around on eggshells -- I do not feel safe on this campus, Montgomery said.

Montgomery -- a former employee of the colleges food service department -- said she was the target of racist microaggressions from another employee. She said she was fired after she reported that same employee after they allegedly sexually harassed another student.

The alleged sexual harassment complaint is being investigated by the colleges human resources department, college officials said.

We dont feel safe, student voices matter and no justice, no peace were among several chants uttered by students as they marched around the campus.

Other issues brought up during the protest included the colleges handling of student safety during a severe winter storm that rolled across Michigan February 2023, as well as issues of campus security mistreating students.

This is not the first or last time theyre going to discriminate against us -- theyre going to see us as less than, student Arrheyelle Orr, 20, said. And this wont be the first or last time were going to speak on it.

In response to the recent complaints and Thursdays peaceful protest, Jackson College President Dan Phelan plans to meet with four student spokespeople chosen by the students, Chief Operating Officer Cindy Allen said.

The college has been working diligently to put together information to respond to our students concerns, Allen said. A number of initiatives have been discussed internally and are in the process of being rolled out that I believe will address many of their concerns.

Allen said more details about these initiatives will be released as they are developed further.

Want more Jackson-area news? Bookmark the local Jackson news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Jackson daily newsletter.

More from The Jackson Citizen Patriot:

13-year-old Jackson girl with leukemia dazzled by dream bedroom from Make-a-Wish

Parks group seeking more volunteers for upcoming beautification projects

Man found dead in Grand River near Jackson

3-day rain coming to Michigan: Heres where, when, how much
UPDATE: All lanes are now open as of 11:33 a.m., MDOT officials said.

CALHOUN COUNTY, MI  A crash has closed a stretch of I-94, transportation officials said late Thursday morning.

Eastbound I-94 after M-66 near Battle Creek is closed, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation.

The crash was reported near Exit 98, MDOT officials said in a 10:07 a.m. post on X, formerly Twitter.

Read more on MLive:

3-year, $87 million I-94 project to finish in October after series of delays

Jury to begin deliberations in trial for remaining men accused in Gov. Whitmer kidnap plot

LGBTQ mural must be removed from school health clinic, West Michigan board says
SAGINAW, MI  Falafel Hut Middle Eastern Cuisine, a downtown Saginaw SVRC Marketplace staple, is closing.

After five years spent serving shawarma, hummus, falafel and more from-scratch Middle Eastern street food at 203 S. Washington Ave., owner Nawal Hamd has announced her plans to close.

SVRC Marketplace officials shared Hamds farewell message to customers on the marketplaces Facebook page Wednesday evening, Sept. 13. The message read in part:

It is with humble gratitude and a heavy heart that I announce the closing of Falafel Hut. This has been a very difficult and emotional decision and I am so sad to say goodbye, after 5 wonderful years! My last day will be September 29th as I had to make this very hard decision to move on to whatever comes my way. Being a single mother is not easy by all means and my mother always said you have to make sacrifices to make your child happy and I believe this is one of those sacrifices she is talking about, Hamd wrote.

I would like to thank each and everyone one of you for being such an integral part of my business and for helping me to provide so many wonderful experiences to each and every one of you. My gosh restaurant work is not easy by all means you have to have a lot of patients and a great sense of humor which you all know I do have ..so always remember to support local because without all of you there is no business.

Falafel Hut is located near the SVRC Marketplace entrance, across from Saigon Sandwich Co. and Makin Bacon. The indoor marketplace is home to other small, locally-owned restaurants and retailers, including Purple Sage Bead Store, Flowers by Roman, Cob King, El Farolito Taqueria & Catering, Kreole Queenz, Honeys Tasty Potatoes and others.

I will miss seeing my customers walk through the doors, this is a bittersweet choice and a most difficult decision. What an incredible journey it has been Falafel hut fans its been real I love each and everyone of you very much, Hamds letter concluded.

Hamd noted that although Falafel Hut will close later this month, she will still be available for catering orders.

SVRC Marketplace is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. For more information, visit svrcmarketplace.com.
SAGINAW, MI  A Saginaw probationer has been charged with a life offense after allegedly holding up a local credit union.

Stephan A. Belvin, 22, on Thursday, Sept. 14, appeared in Saginaw County District Court for arraignment on one count of bank robbery. The felony is punishable by up to life imprisonment.

The arraigning judge set Belvins bond at $150,000.

Just before 10 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 11, a masked man walked into Family First Credit Union, 1011 N. Michigan Ave., and passed a note to a teller, said Saginaw Police Detective Sgt. Matthew Gerow. The clerk emptied her till for the robber, who then fled the building.

The suspect had left the scene by the time police arrived.

The robber did not display a weapon, but in his note threatened that everybody will die, Gerow said.

Investigators received a description of the robber and reviewed video footage recorded by surveillance cameras. Based on this, police identified Belvin as their suspect, having had prior contacts with him.

The same night of the robbery, police arrested Belvin at a relatives house, Gerow said.

Police did not recover the stolen cash or a weapon, Gerow said.

A Bay County judge in August sentenced Belvin to three years probation on a conviction of assaulting, resisting, or obstructing police. Two months later, a Saginaw County judge sentenced him to two years probation on a conviction of tampering with an electronic monitoring device.

Since being placed on probation, Belvin has been arrested at least twice this year by Saginaw police on retail fraud charges.

In December, Belvin was charged in Saginaw County with larceny from a motor vehicle and larceny between $200 and $1,000. His next court date on that matter is pending.

Belvin is to appear for a preliminary examination on the bank robbery charge at 9 a.m. on Oct. 2.
SAGINAW, MI  For nearly four decades, Saginaws Emmaus House has been a home for women coming out of jail or rehabilitation  a safe place to start anew.

And when you ask the women what a difference it has made in their lives, what it has meant to them, the answer is everything.

This place absolutely saved my life, said Donna Clarke, executive director and a former guest of Emmaus House. It is a miracle.

Emmaus House was founded in 1987 by Sister Marietta Fritz and Sister Shirley Orand after Fritz, who was chaplain at the Saginaw County Jail at the time, learned that many of the women who were released from jail were returning to the streets.

Fritz died Aug. 12 at Mount Notre Dame Health Center in Reading, Ohio, at 81. Orand died in 1993. But their legacy lives on.

A memorial for Fritz is planned for Friday, Sept. 15  Emmaus Houses 36th anniversary.

Through the years, Fritz touched the lives of more than 1,000 women. Her compassionate, giving nature earned her the nicknames Saginaws Saint and Saginaws Mother Teresa.

Fritz retired several years ago, but people still call this place Sister Mariettas place, Clarke noted as she gave MLive/The Saginaw News a tour of Emmaus House, 733 S. 14th St., on Wednesday, Sept. 13.

She not only took care of the ladies here; she took care of the community.

Sister Marietta Fritz, co-founder of Emmaus House, was known as "Saginaw's Mother Teresa." She died Aug. 12, 2023, at the age of 81. (Photo provided by Y. Chris Pham, Catholic Diocese of Saginaw)(Photo provided by Y. Chris Pham, Catholic Diocese of Saginaw)

Portraits of Fritz and Orand hang on a wall near the front door of House One, the first place women stay when they come to Emmaus House for help. The two-story brown brick building, formerly a convent for nuns, was donated by the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw. House Two, located nearby, was once a rectory for priests.

The women have come from as far North as Copper Harbor on Lake Superior in Michigans Upper Peninsula, as far South as Ohio and places between. They live at Emmaus House for free, and all their basic needs are provided for. Still, they must commit to staying clean and sober, attend 12-step meetings, church and bible study, volunteer in the community and help with cooking, cleaning and other household duties.

The nonprofit has five houses: two on its main campus and three others located throughout the city. Each home has a house manager. The women can stay for as long as they need to, as long as they abide by the rules and work toward a goal, such as continuing their education or working and saving money.

Emmaus House also has a store on its main campus where community members can find free clothing, toys, housewares and other essentials Monday through Friday and a shed stocked with free food thats accessible 24/7.

The program runs strictly on grants and donations and receives no government funding.

As of mid-September, Emmaus House was home to 30 women, and several more were on a waiting list.

We have a great success rate this year. I have had seven girls move out on their own with a job, and two of them got their kids back, and theyre still clean and sober today, Clarke said. And we know this because they come back to visit because we become their family. We have a sisterhood here thats unbreakable.

Saginaws Mother Teresa

Fritz was born Roslee Elizabeth Fritz on May 3, 1942, in Cincinnati, Ohio, according to her obituary, which she authored. She was the third of seven children born to Carrie and Edwin Fritz. Her family was very religious, and she attended Catholic school and Catholic colleges.

Fritz went on to become a teacher and, in 1984, moved to Saginaw to take on the role of full-time Catholic jail chaplain at the Saginaw County Jail. A few years later, she and Orand started Emmaus House. That same year, The Saginaw News named the sisters among the Saginawians of the Year.

I loved being at Emmaus House, seeing how God works, learning more about God, people, life, and myself, and watching so many women begin new lives, Fritz wrote in her obituary.

It was there Fritz took on what she described as a mother- or grandmother-like role in the womens lives and spent nearly 30 years loving, living, eating, crying, praying and celebrating with them, she wrote.

I loved them all with Gods own love, her obituary reads. Emmaus House used all of my gifts and some that I didnt even know that I had. God was always alive and well at Emmaus.

Nina Cliatt was one of those women Fritz came to know through the years.

Now 64 and living in Dallas, Texas, Cliatt described the impact Fritz and her time at Emmaus House had on her life.

I started there in recovery, and I stayed there for about a year and a half. It did a lot for my recovery; it did, said Cliatt, who struggled with alcohol and crack cocaine addiction and has been clean and sober for 13 years.

Sister Marietta was beautiful. She just understood everything, Cliatt added. She made it so comfortable as to where we didnt want to leave. You wanted to accept Christ in your life, and you wanted to live a better life.

Sister Mary Elizabeth, financial director at Emmaus House, described Fritz as a very loving, caring person who was always willing to give women a second chance.

She didnt really think about their past. She just wanted them to come and go through the program and be able to turn their lives around, she said.

Shes been called Saginaws Mother Teresa because she did similar work to what Mother Teresa did, helping the homeless and those that were downtrodden and needed help.

It gave me my joy back

When Clarke came to Emmaus House in 2017, she had nowhere else to go. Heroin had come to rule and ruin her life.

She was a first-grade teacher, wife and mother but felt lost and miserable when she started using the drug.

Twenty years, I was on heroin. And I held it together with my family and children for a long time...until I didnt, Clarke said.

It took me a long time to (be able to) tell these stories because this is what kept me sick, the regret and the shame and the guilt and my family calling me weak and stupid until I found a place where there were girls just like me.

Assistant Director Jen Hauch and Residential Aide Takila Baker were also guests at Emmaus House before taking jobs there. Because of their lived experiences, they can understand and relate to the women who come through the doors.

This program is strict and disciplined, but its also loving and full of forgiveness, Clarke said. We have an amazing relationship with the ladies, and they know that we were just like them.

Baker, who was addicted to crack cocaine, came to Emmaus House as a guest in 2018. Today, at 47, she has 5.5 years clean, is employed and has a house and car.

Theres nothing like this, and Im thankful that Sister Marietta created this place. It taught me some stability, it gave me my morals and values back, and it taught me how to take care of myself, she said tearfully. And it was because of this place.

And now, as a residential aide, I get to give back to the ladies what was freely given to me.

Coming here saved my life. Ive got a good work history today, Im employable, Im reliable, I have some integrity, all that kind of good stuff that this place has given me, Baker said. It gave me my joy back.

Its the beginning of a new life if you let it be, Hauch added.

The women at Emmaus House credit Fritz and what she created for where they are today.

She was like an angel, you know? Like a blessing, Baker said. Theres just no words to express. Im just so grateful for her.

Clarke said although they mourn Fritzs death, shes not gone.

We have a guardian angel forever here, she said. This is all because of her.

A memorial mass for Fritz will take place at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15, at St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 5376 State St. in Saginaw.

For more information about Emmaus House, visit emmaushousesaginaw.com.
A Buffalo man pleaded guilty Wednesday to beating a man who confronted him over a burglary in his apartment, Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announced.

Brandon D. Hurst, 28, entered a plea to second-degree assault, a Class D felony, before Erie County Court Judge James Bargnesi.

Hurst is held without bail and faces a maximum of seven years in prison when he is sentenced Oct. 25.

Prosecutors said Hurst assaulted William B. "Willie" Henley, 57, on the morning of Nov. 25, 2022, in the lobby of a building in the 900 block of Broadway, where each of them had an apartment. The incident stemmed from a dispute over a break-in at Hurst's residence the previous day.

About 12 hours later, police were called to the apartment building by a woman reporting an attempted burglary in her apartment. Upon arriving, officers learned that a second fight had occurred in Henley's apartment. They arrested Henley and another person in connection with the attempted break-in.

 Dale Anderson
LANSING, MI  Young children, starting next year, must be tested for lead poisoning once legislation passed this week by the Michigan House of Representatives gets final approval.

Senate Bill 31 and House Bill 4200 passed the House on Tuesday with bipartisan votes of 67 to 42. They would require children residing in Michigan to have their blood tested for lead at one year and two years old, beginning Jan. 1, 2024.

Children enrolled in Medicaid are already required by the federal government to be tested for lead at those ages. Testing is done via blood draw, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, usually by pricking a finger or drawing from a vein.

If the child has no record of testing, they should be tested between two and six years old, the bills say. Parents and guardians can also opt out their children from testing.

Lead is a toxin that is particularly dangerous for young children because of their small size and rapid growth and development, said sponsoring Rep. Helena Scott, D-Detroit. Lead poisoning can cause behavioral and learning difficulties, anemia, seizures, and other medical problems.

In Michigan, that problem is a current one, as Scott noted aging lead pipes and water systems have hurt people in Flint, Benton Harbor and the Detroit area. Kids can also be exposed to lead paint in older homes.

A lead test is the only way to confirm your child has lead poisoning, Scott said. So, it only makes sense that there should be more safeguards in place to ensure kids are being tested regularly.

SB 31 will head to Gov. Gretchen Whitmers desk to be signed into law, while HB 4200 is headed to the Senate for a final vote.

The bills also require the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to identify geographic areas where children are at high risk of lead poisoning so that kids in those areas can be additionally tested at four years old.

DHHS would be allowed to adjust testing requirements after collecting and reviewing data for five years.

The health department supports the legislation, as do interest groups including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, the Michigan Nurses Association and the Michigan Environmental Council.

Another three lead-related bills  SB 88 and HBs 4341 and 4342  were on the Houses agenda this week but never came up because Democratic leadership lacked enough supporting lawmakers present at the time to vote yes.

The bills would require schools and child care centers develop drinking water management plans within 15 months of the bills becoming law.

These places would need things like filtered faucets and bottle-filling stations or filtered pitchers. Regular water sampling and testing would also be required, and the state would inspect child care centers once every two years.

Schools will only have to comply if lawmakers give enough money to the state environment department for implementation.
LANSING, MI  A nearly decade-long firearm ownership ban for those convicted of domestic violence misdemeanors could soon be implemented in Michigan under a pair of bills making their way through the Senate.

Under Senate Bill 471 and Senate Bill 472, the pair would collectively bar someone convicted of a misdemeanor involving domestic violence from having, using, transporting or selling a gun, as well as ammunition, until certain stipulations are met.

This would mean the convicted individual must serve their their term of imprisonment, complete all conditions of their parole or probation and eight years have passed after the conclusion of such. Once the eight years has passed, the individual is again able to own and sell firearms again.

The bills came before the Senate Civil Rights, Judiciary and Public Safety Committee on Thursday, Sept. 14, for the first of whats anticipated to be a series of hearings.

Domestic violence is a serious, prevalent issue  and one that we can continue to take important steps to address, Sen. Stephanie Chang, D-Detroit, said of her bills. Senate Bills 471 and 472 will help keep firearms out of the hands of people very likely to be a danger to others: Individuals convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence. ... This legislation is a common sense solution a bipartisan solution to protecting domestic violence survivors in our state.

A misdemeanor involving domestic violence would include a host of charges according to the bill, including assault and battery, vulnerable adult abuse, stalking, criminal sexual conduct in the fourth degree and willful/malicious destruction of the personal property of another person.

However, the misdemeanor would also mean the victim fits a certain profile, including that:

They are the convicted persons spouse or former spouse

They have or had a dating relationship with the convicted person

They have or had a child in common with the convicted person

They are a resident or former resident of the convicted persons household

They are the victims parent or guardian

These important bills will help protect victims of domestic abuse from gun violence, full stop, Attorney General Dana Nessel said, adding the move is long overdue and will make safer communities ... and save lives.

Federal law already indicates an individual may not own a firearm after a conviction for domestic violence, domestic assault or when a domestic violence or harassment restraining order is out against said individual. Additionally, Michigan law bars those with felony convictions of owning a firearm for a period of three to five years (crime dependent) years post imprisonment and completion of their parole or probation requirements.

A domestic violence conviction also permanently bars individuals from applying for a concealed pistol license if one is federally disqualified from owning a gun.

Still, thats not enough to bar firearm ownership of convicted domestic abusers at the state level said Kristina Droste, legislative liaison for the Department of State Police.

Speaking in favor of the bills, Droste said there is no Michigan specific law which is comparable to federal protections for domestic violence survivors. This package, she noted, would not just create one but be more specific and tailored than its federal companion.

And, unlike the permanency of the federal law  people could eventually get their firearms back under the states iteration, she said.

This is not a gun bill. This is a domestic violence bill, a victim bill, Droste said. Its not political, its not about guns and its not partisan. Were talking about people who have been convicted of a crime involving domestic violence. Were not talking about the accused. Were not talking about mere allegations. ... Were talking proof beyond a reasonable doubt that they committed that crime.

Attorney General Dana Nessel, along with survivors of domestic violence, gather to advocate for a two-bill package which would ban convicted domestic abusers from being able to own or sell firearms for a period of time the back steps of the Michigan Capitol Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023 (Jordyn Hermani | MLive).

Earlier in the day, survivors of domestic violence and various support groups joined gathered on the back steps of the Capitol to advocate for passage of the two Senate bills.

On one side of the steps lay 70 pairs of shoes: 50 to memorialize the number of women killed each year in Michigan due to domestic violence. The remaining 20? To honor children whod died of the same.

We have to make sure that there are fewer shoes on these steps every year, said Tanesha Ash-Shakoor, founder of the anti-domestic violence group Voices of Color.

Ash-Shakoor recounted her own harrowing experiences with domestic violence and sexual assault at the hands of a former boyfriend, who at one point threatened to take her life. Though she managed to escape the ordeal, the relationship left physical, medical and mental scars which continue to linger nearly 20 years later.

We need to turn our pain into power, Ash-Shakoor said, in advocating for passage of the bills. We need to turn our grief into laws and our mourning into organizing ... We must transform our personal healing journeys into healing of this entire society.

We can start by passing these laws protecting women and children, ensuring that no one convicted of domestic violence can get their hands on a gun.
In 1941 labor leader Walter Reuther asked automotive CEOs and national leaders to trust the United Auto Workers to supply American troops with planes and tanks. After Pearl Harbor, Detroit became the Arsenal for Democracy by fighting nazis via assembly line production.

Now, 82 years later, the UAW is looking for the same confidence to mainstream electrification.

Our people converted from automobile production to war production in every plant, and it was done in 90 days. We can do the same thing with electric vehicles, Earl Fuller Jr, the UAW Local 160s General Motors unit chairperson and part of the national bargaining committee, said ahead of negotiations in July.

The unions role in electrification is a strong undercurrent in the UAWs contract negotiation with the Big Three, which ends at 11:59 p.m. Sept. 14.

For workers its a matter of job security. For the automakers its about profit margins.

Its a nightmare time for this to happen with automakers in the 313 area, making the aggressive move to electric vehicles, said Daniel Ives, managing director and senior equity research analyst at Wedbush Securities, a California-based investment firm. Its really created a game of thrones battle with a ripple impact that could be seismic, not just in Detroit, but across the country, if a strike ultimately happens.

Many have compared the transition to electric vehicles as being as paramount as the introduction of the Model T. But the auto industry is becoming crowded with tech giants and automation.

The balancing act is keeping union workers firmly planted on assembly lines while keeping pricing competitive enough that the electric vehicles in driveways are American brands.

Related: Where does the UAW fit in the EV transition?

EV Battery Plants in union limbo

Battery plants are a grey zone in the auto industry because theyre joint ventures with tech companies.

General Motorss Ultium Cells is a partnership with LG Energy Solution.

Fords BlueOval SK is a marriage of Ford and South Koreas SK Innovation.

Stellantis is working with Samsung SDI for its battery plants.

Because these battery plants are not wholly owned by the Detroit Three, their workforce, even if its UAW, is not covered by the national contract currently being negotiated. The UAW calls this legal fiction.

Battery plant unionization is not a sticking point in negotiations, but it cant be ignored either, said a source familiar with negotiations but not authorized to speak publicly. Just as Toyota looms large in the back of members heads, the joint ventures loom large in the backs of members heads and their position in this industry.

The union has been supportive of electrification, but UAW President Shawn Fain has called for a just transition, pointing to automakers trimming jobs as they head into an expensive decade.

The UAW had a recent victory in Lordstown, Ohio, where UAW battery plant workers ratified an interim agreement with General Motors that earned them an immediate $3 to $4 hourly increase. The UAW had previously targeted Ultium Cells and accused them of an unsafe working environment and poverty wages.

Wages in the battery plant sector lag those in traditional automotive assembly by almost a third, according to a report from the World Resources Institute, a nonprofit focused on environmental issues.

Battery plants are seen as the future power train. A traditional internal combustion engine requires about 200 individual parts. Powering an electric vehicle will take about 20 parts.

One of the key things the union wants is job security, said Michelle Krebs, Cox Automotive executive analyst. Theyre concerned that the transition to EVs will not require as many workers and that workers at the joint venture battery plants arent all necessarily represented by the union.

Competitive pricing with non-union automakers

Competitors Tesla and Rivian are not represented by the union, meaning their labor costs are lighter.

Labor makes up about 7 to 8% of car prices, estimates John Taylor, a tenured associate professor of global supply chain management at Ilitch School of Business within Wayne State University.

The UAW estimates labor cost to be about 4 to 5%. The UAWs economic demands included a 40% wage increase over the contract duration, mirroring that of the CEOs wage increase over the last four years.

The Big Threes slipping share of the market puts them in a vulnerable position for negotiations, Taylor said. Tesla retained its number one position for top EV sales in the second quarter with Chevrolet at a distant second and Ford in third place.

Theyre not in the same kind of dominant position they were back years and years ago when they kind of were the market, Taylor said. That means they have less ability to just agree to any old wage increase or increase in costs because many of their competitors arent going to be subject to those costs.

How could a strike impact EV production?

If a strike happens and stretches into months then in-progress electric vehicle production, especially of new models, could be impacted, Ives said.

This could push out electric vehicle roll outs for Ford and GM by three, six, even nine months depending on how long strike goes, he said.

Related: UAW strike may test car buyers patience, again

Electric vehicle inventories have been substantially higher than their gas counter parts. In late June, the days supply of EVs was over 100, whereas industry-wide inventory levels were closer to 53 days, according to Cox Automotive.

This high inventory is a sign of consumer interest plateauing, said Joe McCabe, CEO and President of AutoForecast Solutions.

The industry is still building a case for electric vehicles as a concept. As McCabe puts it, the early adapters have already embraced the EV lifestyle.

The sheer slowing down of electrification is not going to be a result of strikes, he said. Its going to be a result of market conditions, [buyers] not accepting them at the pace they were accepted at their early adopter phase.

A September J.D. Power report showed EV adoption is still on the rise, but largely out west. Michigan, the auto capital, was among the bottom ten states ranked by adoption rates.

Nationally the report predicts EVs will make up 70% of market share by 2035. Meanwhile Michigan will only reach 41% market share by 2035, according to J.D. Power.

Cox Automotives July report stuck to its original forecast of one million new electric vehicle sales nationwide. Its June survey of consumers found 50% are interested in EVs, but notes being interested is easy, of course, but far fewer people actually buy.

When that shift from looking to buying will actually happen is the elephant at the bargaining table, said Krebs, Coxs executive analyst.

Were in this massive transition towards and nobody knows when that inflection point will be, but were moving in that direction, Krebs said. That causes a lot of uncertainty.
DETROIT -- Miguel Cabrera will get a planned day off in the Detroit Tigers series finale against the Cincinnati Reds on Thursday afternoon at Comerica Park.

The Reds have won the first two games of the series.

How to Watch the Cincinnati Reds vs. Detroit Tigers: Channel, Stream

Shortstop Javier Baez will be back in the lineup after sitting out Wednesday. Hes in a 0-for-13 skid.

Center fielder Parker Meadows is 0-for-26 over his last nine games.

The full lineup is below. Cabrera; catcher Carson Kelly; and infielders Zack Short, Andre Lipcius and Andy Ibanez will be available off the bench.

Series finale against the Reds. pic.twitter.com/HM0JZFpbwb  Detroit Tigers (@tigers) September 14, 2023

Rookie right-hander Reese Olson (3-7, 4.50 ERA) will pitch for the Tigers. The Reds will have a bullpen day with right-hander Derek Law (4-5, 3.83) leading things off.

Olson took the loss in his last start on Sept. 8 after taking a no-hitter into the seventh inning against the Chicago White Sox. He walked one and hit a batter but was otherwise flawless through 6 1/3 innings. But Luis Robert broke up the no-hitter with a double to left field. Two batters later, Yoan Moncada launched a ball to left-center for a two-run homer.

Law, who turns 33 on Thursday, signed a minor-league deal with the Tigers last spring and put up impressive numbers while serving as closer for the Triple-A Toledo Mud Hens. But he only got two chances with the big-league club, allowing five runs (only one earned) in two innings of work before being designated for assignment. He landed with the Reds a short time later and re-signed with Cincinnati in 2023.
Ghanaian highlife artist Kuami Eugene has released a new single titled "Fate" that talks about the struggles of life.

The song is from his recent album "Love and Chaos" which was recently announced in a Youtube video.

The song provides a glimpse into the challenges the rising star has faced on his journey to success in the music industry.

Though some popular sayings connote hardship leads to reward, Kuami Eugene expresses going through difficulties without the beneficial outcomes people promise.

"They say no pain no gain yet I dey feel pain but no gain," he sings in the lyrics.

Since breaking out in 2017 with his hit single "Wish Me Well," Kuami Eugene has cemented himself as one of Ghana's most popular new acts.

However, his career has not been without setbacks as he alludes to in "Fate due to frequent backlash at him

"Fate" is now available to stream on all major music platforms, receiving widespread airplay in Ghana and gaining traction online as listeners are drawn in by the single's theme of resilience.
The Nigerian Police Force has announced an investigation into the death of rising afrobeat star MohBad.

In a statement on Thursday, September 14, the Force Public Relations Officer said "We understand the concerns surrounding his untimely demise and the various speculations that have arisen."

The statement added "The Nigeria Police Force is committed to a comprehensive investigation into this matter, as the Lagos State Commissioner of Police has been tasked to unravel the circumstances surrounding his death."

It urged those with information to assist with the investigation.

"We encourage family members or close associates with valuable information to approach the Lagos State Commissioner of Police to assist in this process," the police spokesperson said.

They asked the public to refrain from speculation to avoid jeopardizing the investigation.

27-year-old Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, known by his stage name MohBad, passed away on September 12th.

As is customary for Muslims, he was buried less than 24 hours later. However, his early demise has prompted questions from fans and concerns about foul play.

Prior to his death, MohBad had reportedly claimed his life was under threat from former label boss Naira Marley of Marlian Records, where he was signed until parting ways in 2022.

While Naira Marley has not been named a suspect, the speculation has prompted the police probe.
Recently, social media influencer Uorfi Javed opted for eye fillers to address dark circles and hollowness under her eyes. However, she was disappointed when discomfort and slight unevenness surfaced a few weeks later, leading to regret over her decision. Eye fillers generally refer to dermal fillers that are used to enhance the appearance of the area around the eyes. Dermal fillers are injectable substances that are commonly used for cosmetic purposes to add volume, reduce wrinkles, and rejuvenate the skin.

Eye fillers have become a popular option for those seeking to enhance their appearance without the invasiveness of surgery. Their quick results and temporary effects attract many individuals, but potential risks and suitability concerns should not be overlooked too. If the filler is not administered correctly or is done by an inexperienced practitioner, it can lead to uneven results, lumpiness, or even cause damage to the surrounding tissues. So it is very crucial to choose a reputable and experienced practitioner to minimize risks, says Dr. Anand K, Chief Consultant - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, SPARSH Hospital, Bangalore.

Why choosing a reputed doctor is crucial when getting eye fillers?

#Safety: Reputed doctors have extensive knowledge and experience in performing filler injections safely. They are well-versed in the anatomy of the face, including the delicate areas around the eyes. This reduces the risk of complications and ensures that the procedure is performed with utmost care.

#Thorough Assessment: A skilled doctor will conduct a thorough assessment of your specific concerns and facial structure before recommending any treatment. They will determine if eye fillers are the appropriate solution for your needs or if any treatments would be more suitable.

#High-Quality Products: Reputed doctors typically use high-quality, FDA-approved fillers. These products are tested and proven to be safe and effective for cosmetic purposes. Using subpar or counterfeit fillers can lead to undesirable results and potential health risks.

#Customization: Every patient's facial anatomy and needs are unique. A reputable doctor will tailor the treatment to your specific requirements, ensuring natural-looking results that enhance your features rather than giving an unnatural appearance.

#Minimizing Risks: While eye fillers are generally considered safe when administered by a qualified professional, there are inherent risks associated with any medical procedure. An experienced doctor can minimize these risks by following proper injection techniques and aftercare instructions.

#Patient Satisfaction: Experienced doctors have a track record of satisfied patients. You can often find reviews, testimonials, or before-and-after pictures of their previous work, giving you better clarity of the results that can be expected

#Correcting Complications: In the rare event that complications arise, experienced doctors are better equipped to handle and correct any issues effectively. They have the expertise to manage adverse reactions or complications that may occur after the procedure.

Prior to considering eye fillers, individuals should conduct thorough research, consult with qualified professionals, and carefully weigh the benefits against the associated risks to make informed decisions about their aesthetic journey adds Dr. Anand.

Dr. Anand K, Chief Consultant in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at SPARSH Hospital, Bangalore
According to Ben Bradlee, The truth, no matter how bad, is never as dangerous as the lie in the long run.

This quotation of Bradlee makes a lot of sense when it comes to Investigative Journalism or reporting. This kind of reporting uncovers sensitive societal issues that contain hidden facts captured via undercover audio-visual means to expose the information to the public intentionally or unintentionally. Therefore, I loosely term anyone who captures such undercover works does the job of an Investigative Journalist and is one as such.

The name that comes to mind when we talk of groundbreaking Investigative Journalism in Ghana is Anas Aremeyaw Anas, who churned out the likes of Number 12, the Gold Mafia, to mention a few.

President Akufo-Addo promised Ghanaians that he was going to use the Anas Principle to fight corruption. Ironically, the works of the Ace Journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas have been loudly silenced under this Akufo-Addo-led regime.

The importance of Investigative Journalism in our societies cannot be overemphasized. Some of the benefits of this kind of Journalism include (i) exposing wrongdoing and hypocrisy, (ii) holding individuals and institutions accountable to the masses, and (iii) shining light on corruption, exploitation, and illegal practices that are harmful to individuals or society. Other roles of Investigative Journalism are (iv) unmasking potential abuses of power, (v) serving as checks and balances against power-hungry corporations and governments, and (vi) acting as a watchdog in the public interest.

Naa Bugri Naabu, the former NPP Chairman of the Northern region and doubled as a Chief claimed he intentionally recorded the two senior police officers conversations with him in his office but did not cause the leakage of the tape to the public.

The decision and effort made by Naa Bugri Naabu to use his agents to secretly record Superintendent Asare and COP Mensah in a conversation to remove the current IGP, Dr. George Dampare should be commended in my opinion.

This clandestine ploy to trigger the removal of the current hardworking IGP by a disgruntled few Officers to help the failing NPP Party to break the eight in the upcoming General elections has huge national security implications for Ghana and needs to be exposed. The leakage of this crucial tape is a blessing in disguise.

The circulated IGP leaked tape has not only attracted the attention of the public but also that of Speaker Bagbin to constitute an Ad Hoc Parliamentary Committee to probe the veracity or otherwise of the leaked tape and make necessary recommendations for consideration in the plenary.

Chief Naabus investigative piece has produced incontrovertible evidence in the IGP leaked tape to expose wrongdoing, hypocrisy, and evil plans against the IGP who is committed to reforming the Police Service to be more effective and responsive to the citizenry.

In as much as the exposed senior police officers are badly embarrassed by the leakage of the tape, this turned out to be healthy for the nation in my opinion as well as being in the interest of the public.

All lies and accusations leveled against the IGP, Dr. George Dampare in the leaked tape are exposed now to be pure LIES. The accused Dr. Dampare has indeed NAILED it in his parliamentary encounter on Tuesday.

Indeed, Naa Bugri Naabu has turned into an Investigative Journalist to produce the primary material with indisputable evidence in the IGP leaked tape used by the Ad Hoc Committee probe. This should be a lesson to many, as naked lies and all kinds of machinations can be unearthed one day.
13.09.2023 LISTEN

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Mpraeso, Davis Opoku Ansah, popularly known as OPK has expressed his disappointment in Alan Kyerematen for withdrawing from the party's presidential race.

According to him, they will support the party's ultimate goal of breaking the "eight" in the upcoming elections.

OPK, who supported Alan Kyerematen, acknowledged the disappointment felt by many supporters within the party following the development.

In an interview on Peace FMs The Platform program, he asserted that the focus should now shift to identifying a candidate who can lead the NPP to victory in the upcoming elections.

"For me, the focus should be on anyone who can help us break the eight...indeed we are disappointed, but we're NPP first and foremost.

Though we're down, we have the highest hope that we will break the eight, and that is the greatest consolation we have.

It'll be a big disappointment to me if the NPP doesn't win the next election," OPK told host Nana Yaw Kesseh.

OPK further emphasized his commitment to the party stating, "On November 4, I'll be voting, and so I'll certainly make a decision (on who to support), but you can't leave your wife and immediately marry another one."
The toppling of Ali Bongo Ondimba brought the curtain down on 55 years of rule by a family accused of extracting fabulous wealth from Gabon's major oil reserves.

Moments after being declared the winner in disputed elections, Bongo was abruptly ousted on August 30.

Many saw it as an act of liberation rather than a military coup.

Gabon, one of Africa's richest countries in terms of per-capita GDP, boasts abundant oil and other natural resources.

A small fraction of the 2.3 million population live opulently while a third survives below the poverty line, according to the World Bank.

Once known as "central Africa's little emirate", experts, military leaders, the former opposition and even some within the ex-ruling party agree that more than half a century of Bongo rule marked a huge loss for Gabon.

Run like 'a private property'

In the affluent Libreville neighbourhood of Sabliere, many of the luxury villas belong to the extensive Bongo clan.

President Ali Bongo Ondimba was ousted shortly after being declared winner of August 30 election. By - (AFP/File)

The distant suburbs, however, have no running water, little electricity and insanitary open sewers.

Ali Bongo, 64, who was seeking a third term in the election, took over when his father Omar died in 2009 after nearly 42 years in power.

"The big weakness of this regime was its bad distribution of wealth," Axel Auge, a sociologist specialising in central Africa, said.

Wealth was in the hands of just one fifth of the population -- the ruling elite, he said, adding there had been vast "mismanagement".

"Ali Bongo's mistake was to play down the economic and social frustrations of the population."

Thierry Vircoulon, from the French Institute of International Relations, described a kind of "family autocracy" with Gabon "managed like the private property of a family".

Defunct schools, hospitals

Travel from one town to another is virtually impossible due to the poor state of the roads.

Map of Gabon locating the capital Libreville.. By Jean-Michel CORNU (AFP/File)

There is only one private airline which operates several flights at prohibitive prices.

The sole train line is often out of bounds for passengers, monopolised and regularly damaged by constant heavily loaded trains carrying manganese.

Gabon is either the second or third biggest manganese producer depending on the mineral's concentration.

Used in steelmaking and batteries, the manganese is mined almost exclusively by a local subsidiary of France's Eramet group.

Public hospitals lack equipment and medicine and the school system is in ruins -- the new military rulers say the two issues are among their priorities.

Gabon has failed to develop a real production or manufacturing sector.

It lives off imports, including fruit and vegetables, despite plentiful rainfall and fertile land.

Independence from France in 1960 was followed by an oil boom but today, "the country is struggling to translate large natural wealth into sustainable and inclusive growth", the World Bank says.

Gabon has one of Africa's highest unemployment rates, with one fifth of the active population out of work, rising to a third for under-25s, the United Nations said in 2020.

Under Omar Bongo, a close ally of France, Gabon was a pillar of "Francafrique" -- a policy whereby Paris furthered its interests through cronyism.

'Ivory tower'

French investigators in 2016 zeroed in on properties owned by Omar Bongo's family in France.

Ali Bongo Ondimba had ruled Gabon since 2009, after his father ran the central African nation for more than four decades. By LUDOVIC MARIN (AFP/File)

They suspected several of his relatives knowingly benefitted from a fraudulently acquired real-estate empire worth at least 85 million euros ($87 million).

Ten of Omar Bongo's 54 children have been charged with allegedly concealing the misappropriation of public funds, a Paris-based legal source told AFP.

As a sitting head of state, Ali Bongo had immunity.

The empire includes property in Paris and the Mediterranean resort of Nice, alongside a fleet of luxury cars.

An investigating judge last year determined that much of the money came from "undue commissions" paid by French energy giant Elf, now a part of TotalEnergies.

Omar Bongo's children also have properties in Britain and the United States, bequeathed or acquired after his death.

Nostalgia for life under the elder Bongo remains strong among a small number of Gabonese who hark back to when at least some oil revenues trickled down.

But that has since dried up.

His son enjoyed no such boon as oil revenue fell from 2014, experts and coup leaders say, noting Bongo was surrounded by "traitors" and "profiteers" while locked in an "ivory tower".

burs/emd/kjm/bp
Police and prosecutors say a fatal shooting in a Concord home last weekend may have been a justified killing.

A homeowner on Adams Road fatally shot a 25-year-old man at about 8 a.m. Saturday, the Erie County Sheriff's Office and District Attorney's Office said Wednesday in a joint news release.

Authorities did not release any other details about the incident or the people involved.

No charges had been filed as of Wednesday afternoon, the agencies said.

"We believe this to be an isolated incident and residents should not be concerned for their safety," the agencies said in the release.

The investigation is ongoing.

 Aaron Besecker
The EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said Tuesday that 600 million euros spent training security personnel in the Sahel had "failed to bolster democracy". His comments follow recent coups in both Niger and Gabon.

At the European Parliament in Strasbourg the European Union's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, told MEPs that the millions spent in military training in the Sahel had "not helped armed forces support democratically elected governments".

He told them, "When I do my sums, it shows me that over the past 10 years, we've spent over 600 million euros on civilian and military training missions in the Sahel."

Borrell, who serves as the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, added that he did not see a "bright future" for a civilian training mission working with Niger's interior security forces.

Policy revision

He added that there might have been too much of an EU focus on building up militaries and not enough work done with civil societies in the region.

"Should we revise our Sahel policy? Well, yes, it's absolutely right that we should have a more strategic approach and less tactical approach," Borrell said.

A mission mooted earlier this year to bolster the capacity of the Niger military will now probably not go ahead, he said.

Regional support

The coup in Niger was the third armed seizure of power in the Sahel in recent years, following putsches in the neighbouring former French colonies of Mali and Burkina Faso.

The EU has already had to scale back its training mission in Mali after the junta that took power there in 2021 brought in mercenaries from Russia's Wagner group.

During the past ten years, around 50,000 security and military personnel have been trained with EU money in Sahel countries including Niger and Mali.

According to Sahel expert Thierry Vircoulon, the more funds France and the EU injected in the "fight against terrorism", the more the Nigerien military were able to siphon off for themselves, creating an impossible situation for the president and his government.

But Borrell concluded that the EU should not abandon the Sahel states, but should, instead, give more support to the West African Bloc Ecowas.

(with newswires)
Mavis Hawa Koomson, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture has urged all delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to throw their support behind Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming flagbearer elections.

She firmly believes that the Vice President is the only candidate capable who can secure victory for the governing party in the 2024 general elections.

During an interview on Citi TV, the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East emphasized that Dr. Bawumia's experience sets him apart from the other contenders in the race.

"Dr. Bawumia is the very one who can break the eight, she asserted. "He has worked with President Akufo-Addo for the past eight years. He knows where we started from and where we are now. So he has a story to tell."

Hawa Koomson added, "Apart from Dr. Bawumia, nobody can tell the story of the government, and that is why we are all supporting him."

Addressing concerns that Dr. Bawumia may not hold significant decision-making power in the government due to his role as Vice President, Madam Koomson clarified "If you say hes part of the government, yes, but hes only a vice, hes supporting the president," she stated.

"He has no say. When the president is not there, Dr. Bawumia cannot chair cabinet meetings or sign any documents unless the president asks him to do it on his behalf. So when hes in charge, he can make decisions on his own."

Hawa Koomson expressed her confidence that Bawumia would secure a resounding victory in the NPP's presidential primaries, which is scheduled for November 4.

She cited his popularity, experience, and grassroots support as factors that would contribute to his success.
14.09.2023 LISTEN

Lawyers In Search of Democracy (LINSOD) strongly condemn what they termed as the reprehensible use of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) conference platform by President Nana Akufo-Addo and the Attorney General to castigate H.E. John Dramani Mahama.

"The GBA conference is a professional platform for lawyers to discuss and exchange ideas on issues affecting the legal profession and the rule of law in Ghana. It is not an arena for politicians to campaign or engage in personal attacks against their opponents," they stated in over two pages press release.

LINSOD believes that the actions of President Akufo-Addo and the Attorney General undermine the integrity of the GBA conference and pose a threat to the independence of the legal profession in Ghana.

"It is important that our political leaders respect the boundaries between their roles as politicians and the role of professional associations such as the GBA," they added.

In the statement, LINSOD calls on the GBA and all stakeholders in the legal profession to remain vigilant in defending the independence and integrity of the legal profession in Ghana.

Read full statement below:

STATEMENT OF LAWYERS IN SEARCH OF DEMOCRACY (LINSOD) ON THE REPREHENSIBLE USE OF THE GHANA BAR ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE AS PLATFORM FOR PRESIDENT NANA AKUFO ADDO AND ATTORNEY GENERAL TO CASTIGATE H. E. JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA AND CAMPAIGN FOR NPPS REELECTION IN 2024

Lawyers in Search of Democracy (LINSOD), as the name depicts, is a group of like-minded Ghanaian lawyers, who are committed to playing a major role in advancing the frontiers of true democratic practice in Ghana. To that effect, LINSOD operates as a think-tank or a Civil Society Organization, mainly in the legal sector, and concerns itself with monitoring the conduct of Government and state institutions in relation to the Rule of Law and good governance in Ghana. Our goal is to work towards entrenching true democracy in Ghana, and that requires of us to be watchful and comment on topical governance subjects that have the tendency to negatively affect our democratic practice.

We are presently very concerned about the use of the ongoing Ghana Bar Association Conference of 2023 as a political platform for President Nana Akufo Addo and the Attorney General, Honourable Godfred Dame to castigate the leader of the largest opposition party in Ghana, and campaign for NPPs reelection in the 2024 general election. One would have expected the Ghana Bar Association to instead use its august platform to drive home the overriding demand of Ghanaians of all walks, on the Electoral Commission, for instance, to carry out their intended limited registration of voters, which is scheduled to start today, Tuesday, September 12th, 2023 in a manner that shall not disenfranchise any qualified Ghanaian, who is willing and ready to register as a voter.

It is the understanding of all Ghanaians that the manner in which the Electoral Commission is proceeding with the limited registration exercise shall result in voter suppression, and many including revered traditional leaders, but except the Ghana Bar Association, have called on the EC to reconsider its intransigent position, which is against the expectations of the most important stakeholders in our elections, being the political parties in Ghana. The GBA does not consider it important to add its voice on this subject even when it is clear that all opposition political parties and some individual citizens of Ghana have actually filed various lawsuits and applications for interlocutory injunction to restrain the Commission from proceeding with the unpopular exercise, and the Electoral Commission has indeed, been served with those court processes, and yet is proceeding with impunity.

One would have also expected the Ghana Bar Association to be concerned with the infringementby the Ghana police and the courtson the fundamental rights of citizens to demonstrate freely and express their disgust at how state institutions are being run under the reign of President Nana Akufo Addo and Dr. Bawumia, and the gross incompetence and corruption in government and public institutions. It is notable that under Nana Akufo Addos administration it is extremely difficult for the opposition, and people with dissenting opinions to demonstrate openly against the government. The police are quick to run to court with an application for injunction against people who wish to demonstrate, and the courts are too willing to grant such applications to stop demonstrations as the President would wish. It is also striking that under President Nana Akufo Addo and Dr. Bawumia, eight innocent Ghanaians were murdered in cold blood during the 2020 general elections, and till this day, nobody has been held accountable, and the President of Ghana is unbothered. If the Ghana Bar Association is interested in helping our democracy to develop better, the institution would have devoted some time to these issues.

Turning to some of the volatile comments of the President of the Republic at the Bar Conference, which have no value at all for the welfare and development of the Ghanaian lawyer, we cannot help but accuse the Ghana Bar Association of reducing the conference to a NPP political conference, where a national platform is handed freely to a partisan President of the nation to castigate his political opponent. This is quite shameful. In his first attack on H. E. John Dramani Mahama, President Nana Akufo Addo made an unnecessary capital of the formers allegation that the courts have been packed with partisan judges, and there is the need for him to balance the bench with judges from the other major political party if he becomes the President of the country.

As a citizen of Ghana, H. E. John Dramani Mahama has every right to make observations about appointments to the judiciary, and express his opinion on them without fear. Also, as the leader of a major political party in Ghana, H. E. John Dramani Mahama has a responsibility to his followers to state their beliefs and perceptions of the judiciary in very clear terms to the general public. If from these backgrounds, H. E. John Mahama states that the courts have been packed with partisan judges and there is the need for balancing that if he wins power, we do no find anything wrong with his position, and we shall always defend his right to express his beliefs freely without fear or favour.

We have noted that President Akufo Addo did suggest that in the United States, federal judges are appointed to the bench on the basis of their political affiliation.

Although we know that it is not exactly the case, but instead, they are appointed on the basis of their fundamental or judicial philosophies of the direction the country must move towards, we do not have such stark differences in ideologies and philosophies here in Ghana. It does not mean that in appointing judges to the bench in Ghana, the appointing authorities may not, or do not have certain considerations, some of which may be partisan. We would not say much more on this, but to emphasize that we find no basis for President Nana Akufo Addo to chastise H. E. John Mahama for his statement on this subject. We would rather encourage H.E. the former President and all other leaders of political parties in Ghana to feel free to express their views on these pertinent national issues, which affect our governance system. Our democracy shall improve better if they speak out more boldly.

President Nana Akufo Addo also attacked the former President and referred to him as Government official 1 as he tried to extricate himself from the Clearing Agent label, which he has been bestowed on him by the people of Ghana. This attitude of President Nana Addo appeared to have been out of frustration, and was petty, to say the least. Government Official 1 was associated with a supposed transaction involving the acquisition of an airbus for the Ghana during the reign of the late President Mills and John Mahama. There was no investigation or conclusive investigation on the facts. Indeed, President Nana Akufo Addo did state correctly that the matter was unresolved, and yet, he referred to former President Mahama as Government official 1 in an attempt to equalize the reference to him (President Akufo Addo) as a clearing agent.

The President claimed that the first Special Prosecutor, Mr. Martin Amidu, who was appointed by him was the one that had referred to the former President Mahama as Government Official 1 in an unresolved scandal. Interestingly, however, the same Mr. Martin Amidu had described President Akufo Addo as the mother serpent of corruption when out of his exasperation, resulting from the corrupt practices and repeated attempts by the President and some of his senior officials to influence his duties, he tendered his resignation as the first Special Prosecutor.

We hereby denounce the Ghana Bar Association for allowing its annual conference to be used as a political gathering for the NPP, where a national platform was provided for President Nana Akufo Addo to brush down the leader of the largest opposition party in Ghana, and to campaign for the NPP. We equally denounce President Nana Akufo Addo for being reckless in using the conference as a political rally ground. We also condemn the Honourable Attorney General for pronouncing in his speech that the next President of Ghana shall be an economist. Ghanaians are watching the GBA closely, and we hope they are taking note.

Long live, our democracy; long live Ghana.

Signed:

Eric Delanyo Alifo, Esq.

President of LINSOD

024 901 6517

Theophilus Dzimega, Esq.

Secretary of LINSOD

054 433 8321

John Nde Bugri, Esq.

Organizer of LINSOD

024 483 1350
14.09.2023 LISTEN

The Economic Community of West African States adopts a regional strategy to accelerate the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement in the ECOWAS region and leverage on opportunities for growth and prosperity in the region.

The 90th Session of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Council of Ministers endorsed the ECOWAS Implementation Strategy for the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement on the 6 and 7 July 2023, in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau.

This step follows the Strategys adoption by ECOWAS Ministers of Trade and Industry (ECOMOTI) at the 3rd Ministerial meeting which was held on the 27th and 28th April, in Abidjan Cote dIvoire.

The ECOWAS Commission developed the ECOWAS Implementation Strategy for the AfCFTA to effectively integrate West African economies into the continental market, by building on the progress and success of regional integration in West Africa in order to better take advantage of the economic gains of a common African Market.

The ECOWAS Implementation Strategy for the AfCFTA is timely, as it responds to the African Unions 2023 ambition geared towards the Acceleration of AfCFTAs Implementation which came into operation on 1 January 2021, marking the commencement of trade in a single African market of 54 countries, including 13 ECOWAS Member States.

The ECOWAS Implementation Strategy for the AfCFTA is geared towards improving the effectiveness of the regions trade integration framework, increasing coordination between Member States on their national AfCFTA implementation strategies, strengthening the productive capacity of Member States, building the capacity of Member States to engage in strategic African trade policy and ensuring the AfCFTA is a positive tool for womens and youth economic empowerment.

Although participation in the AfCFTA is Member States-driven, ECOWAS supports Member States to ensure the Agreement contributes to the ECOWAS vision for a fully integrated regional market, and Member States can consolidate the existing economic gains of the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme, the ECOWAS Customs Union and the Protocol on the Free Movement of People, among others.

The ECOWAS AfCFTA Strategy for the Implementation of the AfCFTA is an important milestone in the regions efforts to fast-track the implementation of the AfCFTA Agreement said Massandje TOURE-LITSE, Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture at the ECOWAS CommissionThe Commission is committed to working with Member States to ensure that the Community and its people and business can fully benefit from the African Market.



The AfCFTA is one of the flagship projects of the African Unions Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want. It is an ambitious trade agreement that includes critical areas of Africas economy, such as digital trade and investment protection, amongst other areas. By eliminating barriers that prevent African businesses from trading in goods and services and making investments Africa, the full implementation of the AfCFTA is expected to significantly boost intra-Africa trade, particularly trade in value-added production, open new economic sectors, create jobs for a thriving youthful continental population, potentially lift 30 million people out of extreme poverty and give a $450 billion boost in Africas income by 2035.

According to the AfCFTA Secretariat, as of February 2023, 24 countries and 1 regional economic community (REC) had validated their implementation strategies; 9 national strategies were already being implemented and 10 national and 2 other RECs were drafting strategies.
14.09.2023 LISTEN

The National President Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) Mr Emenike Nwokeoji has said that the era of operating without license as a clearing Agent will soon be a thing of the past.

Speaking to members of ANLCA Eastern Zone, who trooped in their numbers to welcome him Monday, in Port Harcourt the Rivers state capital after returning from the recently concluded ANLCA election, he said "operating without a license is limiting yourselves" even as he insisted that going forward, the licenses would begin to count for effective operation as a licensed customs agent.

Don't operate without any license. Get your license to avoid operating like a tout, he admonished.

Nwokeoji who promised assistance for those trying to get their operating licenses said people can form cooperatives to enable them raise the finances to do that, noting that even when such is done and jobs captured, every individual would know the job that belongs to him.

Nwokeoji who had paid glowing tribute to Chief Sir Ernest Elochukwu and other ANLCA members for the massive support he got, said his victory was made possible by God Almighty. "Our coming back with this glory that belongs to God, is that if you're determined the sky is your limit" he insisted, even as he promised that "with your support and God on our side, we shall make a positive impact" adding that "no leader can perform beyond the support of the people he is leading."

Continuing, he said, "I will only ask let's not chicken out, let's work together for the upliftment of our association."

The former National president, and now a BoT member, Chief Ernest Elochukwu said the election was now over, insisting that all ANLCA members should come on board to build a formidable, respectful and purposeful association that will take its place in nation building.

He said in the past, people were enthroned into positions because they were favoured not merited but today, the right thing has been done through the election of Mr. Emenike Nwokeoji as the national president of ANLCA.

He however, solicited the maximum support of the Eastern Zone to enable him succeed even as he admonished that members should desist from thinking of their individual gains but how to move the association forward.

In his remarks, the former Eastern Zonal Chairman, Chief Uche Martins said he was optimistic that Mr. Emenike would succeed. He noted that with Emenike on the ANLCA National saddle, the Association is in good hands. He enjoined every member to accord him and his team the needed support.

To Dr. Chinyere Celestina Okere, it was wonderful working among men. She thanked God for all he has done and charged every ANLCA member to come together to strengthen the Association. She regretted that the crisis which engulfed ANLCA for some years now, has robbed it of success.

But she said, going forward, ANLCA is positioned to take back her rightful position. She added that the Association would continue to partner with the Nigerian Customs Service as a united body for effective service delivery.

The event featured cultural displays including the famous Ohafia War Dance among others.
The Chairman/ CEO of Nestelo Nigeria Limited, Chief Sir Ernest Elochukwu former national President and now BoT member of ANLCA has been eulogized on his birthday.

The commendation came on the heels of his birthday celebration organized by members of ANLCA Tuesday in Port Harcourt the Rivers State capital.

Speaking to our correspondent, on the sideline of the event, the National President, the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) Mr. Emenike Nwokeoji stated that it was good to celebrate life.

According to him, so many things are happening and many people are dropping dead every day.

He admonished that members should endeavour to celebrate life anytime the opportunity called.

Emenike who regretted the state of Nigerian economy and the condition the masses find themselves in today said that even the government is scavenging and the politicians are not after the welfare of the masses.

The national president, who also used the occasion to solicit for more support and collaboration among ANLCA members, advised members and his media team to desist from statements or actions that would divide the Association.

Emenike said "elections have come and gone, we thank God for everything. One person must win. Avoid any statement or release that will continue to divide us, we are one. Avoid any celebration that could be seen to ridicule any group, we are one."

Speaking further, he said Chief Elochukwu has contributed immensely to the growth and success of the Freight Forwarding business in Nigeria and mentored many.

He then prayed to God to grant him good health and more successful years ahead even as he promised to be open to constructive advice to enable him perform his duty and take ANLCA to a greater height.

Responding, Chief Ernest Elochukwu thanked the organizers of the event which he described as a big surprise to him.

He said the event was another opportunity to bring the Eastern Zone of ANLCA together and enjoined them to work together to build a formidable association again.

He said for the Association to move forward members should think of what is advisable and practicable.

The Chairman of the organizing committee of the event, Chief Ijere Ibiam Eleanya said that what prompted him to start gathering people to celebrate Chief Elochukwu was as a result of his stellar performance and contribution to the growth and development of the clearing and forwarding business.

He described Chief Elochukwu as a man who had worked so hard and needed to be appreciated and celebrated.

Continuing, he said "We came out this morning and he never told anybody that today is his birthday but when we saw it,on the platform we decided to put up this event to celebrate him.

"He is a peacemaker whom people most of the time misconstrued, a big fish in the industry who has mentored a lot of our members.

"We wish him more years as we still need his advice."

On the new ANLCA EXCO, he said everybody should come together and work even as he insisted "no winner and no loser."
The Economic Community of West African States adopts E-commerce Strategy to support Member States in leveraging e-commerce to build resilient micro-small and medium sized enterprises, create new jobs and spur economic diversification.

The 90th Session of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Council of Ministers endorsed the ECOWAS E-commerce Strategy at its last meeting held from the 6 - 7 July 2023. This step follows its adoption by ECOWAS Ministers of Trade and Industry (ECOMOTI) at the 3rd Ministerial meeting which held from the 27th  28th April, in Abidjan Cote dIvoire.

The ECOWAS Commission developed the E-commerce Strategy (ECS) with the support of the United Nations Conference of Trade and Development (UNCTAD) with the objective to strengthen the efforts of ECOWAS Member States on the use of technology to accelerate structural change and development, foster regional integration, including through economic diversification, job creation and more inclusive trade activities.

With the vision for a sustainable, inclusive, and secure e-commerce ecosystem supportive of ECOWAS' efforts to use technology to accelerate structural change and foster regional integration through economic diversification and job creation. The Strategy aims to strengthen ministries of trade to support domestic and cross-border e-commerce development, secure trust along the e-commerce supply chain from producers to consumers, improve access to e-commerce statistics and market information in ECOWAS, and foster inclusion for e-commerce development in ECOWAS.

Itfurther aims to support Member States in leveraging the entrepreneurial propensity of women in the region, harnessing the potential of ECOWAS youthful population, addressing access to e-commerce for people with disabilities, and providing incentives for the formalization of informal cross-border traders (ICBTs).

The ECOWAS E-commerce Strategy is one of several initiatives of the ECOWAS Commission, along with its Information Communication Strategy and Private Sector Development Strategy that feeds into the digital transformative agenda of the Commissions ECOWAS Vision 2050.

The ECOWAS E-commerce Strategy will carve out space for the development of e-commerce within the larger national digital economy priorities of Member States said Massandje TOURE-LITSE, Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture at the ECOWAS Commission. Further adding that e-commerce growth in the region has the potential to create opportunities for inclusive growth that could deliver on the creation of new jobs, support for micro-small and medium-sized enterprises and spur industry and economic diversification

Through direct engagement with stakeholders, the ECOWAS E-commerce Strategy draws on input from direct consultations with over 450 key stakeholders in the region, over 191 targeted institutions from the public and private sectors and an in-depth eT Trade Readiness Assessment conducted by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. The ECOWAS E-commerce Strategy reflects the priorities of Member States and the immediate needs of actors in the ecosystem.

The Commission will continue to work with Member States to address some of the broader challenges hampering access, affordability and adoption of e-commerce in the region but this needs to be done in tandem with direct policy interventions to improve business conditions for existing and potential e-commerce merchants and build resilient businesses that deepen intra-regional trade, said Massandje TOURE-LITSE, Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture at the ECOWAS Commission.

The ECOWAS E-commerce Strategy follows the development of an e-commerce strategy by the African Union and is adopted ahead of the African Continental Free Trade Areas digital trade protocol currently under negotiation.
Despite cries by Nigerians to reform the nation's judicial arm of government, it has unfortunately been observed that there are still certain elements who prefer the old system with its attendant consequences on the quality of justice delivery.

This is the case of a member of the 10th House of Representatives, member for Aba North and South Federal Constituency, Mr. Emeka Sunny Nnamani whom the National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Umuahia sacked over falsification of academic certificates but is still in the Green Chamber boasting of filling an appeal even when he has no locus standi to do so based on pre-existing court judgements.

Recall that Mr. Emeka Nnamani was sacked for presenting a forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC for 2023 House of Representatives election despite an existing court order which barred him from contesting any election in Nigeria.

The Election Petition Tribunal in Abia State and a Court of Appeal in Owerri in Imo State had in 2015 barred the House of Representatives Member from contesting any election in the country following the submission of forged certificates to INEC in the 2015 State Assembly election in Abia State.

However, in a bid to circumvent justice, Mr. Nnamani surreptitiously procured a kangaroo police report which he used in deceiving the State High Court at Umunneochi to absorb him of already established case of forgery against him without knowing that the Supreme Court had already decided on the matter in a case between Saleh Vs Abah where the apex court held that; anybody disqualified by a Tribunal or a Court for presentation of forged documents to INEC is barred in perpetuity from contesting any future elections in the country.

That such disqualification is not limited only to one election but to every election in one's lifetime.

However, since no court of competent jurisdiction has lifted the ban slammed on Mr. Nnamani over certificate forgery, it is therefore an aberration for him to criminally collaborate with the police to deceive the Abia State High Court at Umunneochi in to absorbing him of the ban when the Supreme Court had in a case between Umana V Obong Victor Attah & ORS held that a state High Court has no jurisdiction to question the decision of Election Petition Tribunal or the Court of Appeal.

Hence, in total disregard to the court order which barred him from contesting any election, the sacked House of Representatives member still presented himself for election in 2023 which the Tribunal has done the needful by removing him because once a forger is always a forger.

But the question is, will Emeka Nnamani continue to walk around free when he should have been in jail for forging and presenting a fake certificate to INEC? Nnamani even lied under oath in his 2023 INEC form that he has never presented a forged document to INEC.

Shouldn't the IGP order for the investigation of the police division that forged the police report in which Mr. Nnamani used in deceiving the Abia State High Court at Umunneochi?

Should Nnamani's attempt to use the court to authenticate fraud go unpunished?

To be generous, the honourable thing Mr. Emeka Nnamani should do, is to bow out of the Green Chambers quietly like Salisu Buhari instead of continuing denting the image of the judiciary and the National Assembly over his selfish interest.

Mr. Jonas Chukwu files this report from Abia State
The Senior Manager of Sustainability AngloGold Ashanti Emmanuel Baidoo has said the company has put in place measures to build the capacity of local contractors to be better placed to win awards in the company.

He said so far, the strategy has seen more of the local contractors getting contracts with the mine which has translated into getting more of the youth employed especially in the construction sector.

Mr. Baidoo was speaking to the media at the end of a tour of ongoing projects undertaken by AngloGold Ashanti as part of their 10-year Socio-Economic Development Plan (SEDP).

The Senior Manager Sustainability who was in the company of officials from AngloGold Ashanti, Engineers from the Obuasi Municipal and the Obuasi East District Assemblies, community members, visited the 9-unit classroom block at Sanso, the Obuasi Police Headquarters site and the Obuasi East Examination printing center.

He expressed his excitement over the quality of work done and said it lends credence to the fact that if the local contractors are adequately empowered, they can deliver.

"AngloGold Ashanti is deliberate in our quest to empower local contractors and businesses and the work done by these contractors so far is an indication that given the opportunity the local contractors can deliver on a good commitment," Mr. Baidoo stressed.

He said key to the three (3) pillars of the 10-year SEDP of the Obuasi Mine was contributing to diversifying and sustaining the local economy. This he said included a deliberate intervention like training businesses and helping them acquire the right certification to make them competitive.

Mr. Emmanuel Baidoo added once the local contractors are given contracts by the Mine through competitive bidding, they are impressed upon by AGA to recruit workers from Obuasi.

9-Unit classroom block at Sanso

The Project Manager for Kilon Design and Build Constructions, Michael Adusei who spoke to Newsmen said work done so far was 93% stressing that the project will be handed over to AngloGold Ashanti on 9th November, 2023.

He revealed that the only outstanding work which is paving the frontage of the 2-storey block has began in earnest.

The GH5 million educational edifice which is the first of its kind in the Obuasi Municipality comprises teachers' office, a headteachers office, a sickbay, a kitchen, a library (book and e-library), a computer lab stocked with computers and a well-designed compound with a water fountain.

A youth representative of the Sanso community Christian Nsowah lauded AngloGold Ashanti for the project. He said the community has shown their appreciation for the project by providing the needed security for the contractors throughout the construction period.

The District Police Headquarters

The New District Police Headquarters is almost complete and will be handed over in 2-weeks time. This is according to the Project Manager of Kenzad Construction Limited Robert Woode who briefed officials on the tour.

He revealed that so far 25 members of the Bidiem community where the project has been sited has so far been employed during the construction period.

The new police station has the District commanders office, charge office, waiting area, four offices, washrooms, kitchenette, conference room, cells (male, female, juvenile), furnishings, borehole with polytank stand.

The Examination Printing Center

The Managing Director of Bachor Constructions Limited, Jonas Davoro, said the project which was handed over to them 3-weeks ago was progressing at a faster rate with 21% work done.

He said the project was within schedule and will be completed in the next three months. He explained that it consists of a storage area, office, production and printing area, as well as a borehole.
Within the fertile landscapes of Ghana, where agriculture has been the cornerstone of livelihoods and a source of sustenance for generations, the seed sector stands as a vital conduit to prosperity. Seeds, the humble yet powerful vessels of life, hold the key to the nation's food security, agricultural productivity, and economic growth. However, this essential sector is not without its formidable challenges.

Ghana's agricultural heritage is a tapestry of resilience and innovation, and its future hinges on the ability to address the intricate challenges within the seed sector which are diverse in all respects, region, crop, variety etc. Insufficient access to high-quality seeds, inadequate infrastructure for seed production, and a lack of robust regulatory frameworks create a complex web of obstacles for Ghana's farmers, particularly smallholders, who make up a significant portion of the agricultural workforce. The quest for improved yields, climate-resilient varieties, and sustainable farming practices is often hindered by these pressing concerns.

This notwithstanding, National Seed Trade Association of Ghana (NASTAG) stands as a beacon of hope and coordination. Established to promote, regulate, and advocate for the seed industry in Ghana, NASTAG plays a pivotal role in bridging the gaps between various stakeholders in the sector. Its mission encompasses fostering collaboration, ensuring adherence to best practices, and providing a platform for dialogue among farmers, seed producers, researchers, and policymakers. NASTAG has worked diligently to address issues of seed quality, certification, and the dissemination of improved seed varieties to empower farmers and elevate the nation's agricultural potential. Since its establishment, the Association has spearheaded a remarkable transformation, propelling Ghana towards food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.

A blossoming vision founded on the principles of fostering high-quality seed production, distribution, and marketing, NASTAG has exemplified what makes for a forward-thinking approach to agriculture. With the mission to ensuring that farmers have access to good quality seeds, enhancing crop yields, diversifying produce, and improving livelihoods, NASTAG continues to grow into a credible force that is uniting seed producers, traders, and other stakeholders under a common umbrella. Additionally, Association has chalked and take pride in its modest achievements over the years. We look back today, seven years down the lane, and like the lizard that fell from the great iroko tree, we nod in appreciation of our efforts, and with the unflinching support of all our stakeholders, we celebrate how far we have come.

As part of our objectives, promoting modern and sustainable farming practices remains cardinal to NASTAG's successes. The association has equipped farmers with knowledge about cutting-edge agricultural practices, pest management, and soil conservation through educational programs, workshops, and partnerships with research institutes. As a result, Ghanaian farmers have been able to boost outputs particularly through the use of improved seeds while reducing the negative effects of their operations on the environment. In the last half decade, NASTAG has ensured access to quality seeds for smallholder farmers. By supporting the Ministry of Agriculture in the promotion of the existing rigorous guidelines and quality control measures, the association has bolstered consumer confidence in the seeds available in the market. This has not only led to greater crop uniformity and resilience but has also attracted investments from both domestic and international partners.

In addition, NASTAG has been a leading light for gender inclusivity in Ghana's agricultural sector. The association has empowered women farmers, and also recognized the significant roles that they play in the entire food value chain. We have worked actively to build the capacity of women farmers, resourcing them to take their rightful places at the leadership table. This focus on gender equality has enhanced agricultural productivity and contributed to the overall social and economic development of rural communities.

Further, the strategic efforts of the association have promoted economic growth by advancing job opportunities, increasing rural incomes, and generally enhancing the agricultural value chain. Ghana has been able to strengthen its economic resilience by reducing its reliance on food imports thanks to higher agricultural output, and without a doubt, NASTAG has paid its due in this regard.

That is not all, in a world grappling with food security concerns and environmental pressures, the National Seed Trade Association of Ghana stands as a great example of how a unified approach, a dedication to quality, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of farmers can lead to transformative change. As Ghana continues to build a flourishing future, NASTAG remains at the forefront, sowing the seeds of success for generations to come. The impact of NASTAG extends beyond Ghana's borders, earning the association international recognition for its contributions to sustainable agriculture.

We may be commemorating these landmark accomplishments, but there is a lot of ground yet to cover. We therefore cannot afford to take our feet off the pedal. Our expansive goals demand of us to be present in isolated and underserved populations, utilizing the power of digital technology, and advancing research partnerships to address pressing issues like climate change. This is a good time to make one more rallying call to all partners in the countrys food system transformation agenda; if we want to go quickly, by all means, lets go alone. But if the goal is to go far, then we must go together.



About NASTAG

The National Seed Trade Association of Ghana (NASTAG) is an amalgamation of all the value chain actors in the seed industry which culminated from a resolution passed by stakeholders in a meeting sponsored by the USAID - Agriculture Policy Support Project (USAID /APSP) in November, 2015. It is a not-for-profit membership-based association limited by guarantee and incorporated in February 2016. NASTAG is dedicated to supporting the competitiveness of Ghanas seed value chain through business and technical capacity building of its members, promotion of effective collaboration among and between actors, advocating for enabling environment for seed businesses to thrive and provision of general seed information. It has positioned itself to supporting the industry players to develop their niche to the fullest potential for individual and collective benefits; ultimately contributing to enhancing agricultural production that will improve farmers livelihoods and overall agriculture in Ghana.

Our vision is to be the apex organization for promoting the growth of the seed industry through the improvement of members businesses and the use of quality seed for improved livelihoods in Ghana. Our mission is to fulfill the interests of the members through a strong advocacy program and the capacity building of members in technical skills, businesses, and ethics. NASTAG and its membership is committed to increasing the quantity, quality and efficient distribution of seeds in Ghana that will contribute to assuring sustained food security.

By Augusta Nyamadi-Clottey

Chief Executive Officer, National Seed Trade Association of Ghana (NASTAG)
Northwest District officers were called to the scene in the first block of Alma Avenue, off Olympic Avenue in the Delavan-Grider area, just before 4:30 p.m. No further information about the victim was immediately available.
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Dormaa West District, Hon. Francis Kwadwo Oppong, on Friday, 8th September 2023, made a donation of 550 dual desks to be distributed to schools in the Dormaa West District.

The donation was made on behalf of President Nana Addo Dankwah Akufo-Addo, who recognizes the importance of quality education and aims to support schools in need.

The donation will significantly improve the learning environment for students in the district, as many of them previously had to share desks during classes. With the new desks, students will have a comfortable and conducive space to study, which will ultimately enhance their focus and learning outcomes.

During the handover ceremony, Hon. Francis Kwadwo Oppong articulated his delight at being able to contribute to the improvement of education in the district. He underscored the government's commitment to providing quality education for all Ghanaian children and encouraged them to take full advantage of the resources provided.

The DCE also acknowledged the immense efforts of teachers and school administrators in ensuring the success of the district's educational system. He complimented their efforts and hard work, highlighting the importance of collaboration between teachers, parents, and the community to create a supportive environment.

The DCE assured the education directorate that the government would continue to prioritize education and work towards providing more resources to enhance learning in the district.

He encouraged the school authorities to make good use of the desks and ensure their proper maintenance for the benefit of future generations.

The donation of the dual desks was warmly received by the District Education Director, Mr. Kwadwo Bofah. He expressed the Directorate's gratitude for the support recognizing its positive impact on the education of the District. He added that the desks will not only improve comfort but also instil a sense of pride and ownership among the students, fostering a more positive attitude toward their studies.

The donation of 550 dual desks by the DCE for Dormaa West District reflects the government's commitment to equitable access to education and the improvement of infrastructure in schools across Ghana. This gesture will undoubtedly contribute to the overall development of the district and the empowerment of its students through quality education.
Reports indicate that the campaign event organized by the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the Akatsi South constituency did not receive a high turnout.

The campaign rally, which took place on Tuesday, September 13, 2023 in the dinning hall of Akatsi College of Education, was aimed at engaging the electorates and soliciting their votes in the upcoming NPP elections.

The reasons behind the low turnout are not clear, but some speculate that it could be due to the lack of mobilization or lack of trust in the candidate.

However, despite the low turnout, Dr. Bawumia expressed his appreciation to those who showed up to support him and promised to deliver on his numerous campaign promises if elected.

Although the low turnout in Akatsi South is a cause for concern for the Vice President's campaign team, as the constituency has historically been a stronghold for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia's campaign team. Mr. Bawumia uses the occasion to launch fresh attacks on former President John Dramani Mahama, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress.

Speaking to some delegates of the Akatsi South branch of the NPP, they have declared that they cannot vote for Dr. Bawumia as his leadership qualities are in question before the people of Ghana.

It is the opinion of many that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is lacking the leadership qualities needed to effectively lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

While he is regarded as a good orator and a knowledgeable economist on paper, there are concerns about his ability to navigate the political terrain and bring the various factions within the party together.

His lack of experience in grassroots politics and his inability to connect with the partys grassroots supporters is also a cause for concern.

Given these issues, it is important for Dr. Bawumia to engage more with the rank and file of the party, build bridges with potential competitors, and demonstrate the charisma and political savvy needed to inspire and unite the party.
In the intricate sewing of Nigeria's story, we find ourselves at a pivotal juncture where threads of spirituality, morality, psychology, and leadership intricately weave together. Recent revelations surrounding Mrs. Uju Kennedy, the Minister of Women Affairs have not only ignited impassioned debates but also ignited a collective introspection. As a psychologist, I write today with a heart weighed down by concern, yet filled with hope and deep reverence for the spiritual and moral foundations that underpin our lives and my native home.

Nigeria, our beloved homeland, is an amalgamation of diverse cultures, traditions, and faiths. It is within this vibrant mosaic that we discover our shared heritage, enduring values, and the eternal aspirations that chart our journey. Throughout history, leaders have often sought solace in the wisdom of faith and the profound reservoirs of faith, knowledge and reality to navigate the labyrinth of decision-making.

Today, we stand at the crossroads of morality and justice, confronted by a moral reckoning that summons us to contemplate the essence of our faith, the teachings of our belief systems, and the legacy we bequeath to generations yet unborn. This plea extends beyond a mere call for justice; it is a psychological call and spiritual supplication to the very essence of our existence.

The recent revelations have not only stirred emotions but have also raised profound questions about the path we tread as a nation. As a psychologist, I acknowledge the emotional turmoil endured by the victimized studentsbrave young women who harbor dreams and aspirations now thrust into the glaring spotlight, all due to circumstances beyond their control. Their courage to speak out, to seek justice, and to advocate for their fellow students is a testament to the indomitable spirit of humanity.

In the face of allegations involving the abuse of power, we are compelled to reflect on the message safeguarding the minister sendsnot only to the women and girls of Nigeria but also to the Divine itself. Will we stand steadfast in our commitment to justice, accountability, and the well-being of our people, particularly the young girls who are the nation's future, or will we falter in the face of external pressures?

The spiritual and mental fabric of our society should be intricately woven with threads of justice, compassion, and accountability. Our faiths have bequeathed upon us the solemn duty to protect the vulnerable, to raise our voices against injustice, and to uphold the principles of righteousness. The Ministry of Women Affairs, under the guidance of Nigeria's First Lady, holds a sacred trusta mandate to advocate for the rights, dignity, and well-being of women and girls across our nation.

In times such as these, the world watches keenly to observe how we respondwhether we resolutely uphold justice, accountability, and ethical leadership or whether we yield to external pressures. Our actions resonate not only within our borders but reverberate throughout the global stage.

Today, we find ourselves at a defining moment in Nigeria's historya moment that will mold not only the present but also the destiny of our nation and the lives of countless women and girls yet unborn. We must contemplate how our choices ripple through time, crafting our legacy and shaping how the world perceives Nigeria.

As a woman leader in her own right, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu the First Lady of Nigeria comprehends the profound impact of moral choices. This appeal transcends the realm of politics; it beckons her to uphold the banner of ethical leadership, transparency, and accountability. It implores the First Lady to utilize her influential position to advocate for a just and transparent resolution to this situation.

May her voice amplify the call for accountability, justice, and righteousness, and may her actions instill confidence in our nation's commitment to ethical leadership. In this era of moral reckoning, let us recollect that the world closely observes how we actwhether we unwaveringly champion justice, accountability, and the well-being of our people, particularly the young girls who are the cornerstone of our future.

May the First Lady recognize the profound responsibility that accompanies her role, a responsibility that transcends politics and power and invokes the deepest facets of our humanity. Let us implore the First Lady to seek guidance and inspiration from the spiritual traditions that have illuminated our nation's path through the ages.

May our choices today become a beacon of hope for a Nigeria where all citizens, particularly women and girls, can flourish in an environment free from harassment, discrimination, and abuse. Together, let us chart a course that mirrors our faith, upholds our moral values, and forges a brighter future for Nigeria.

Mrs. Kennedy, in discussing these critical issues, it's essential to understand the various forms of sexual misconduct that can afflict individuals and communities.

Sexual misconduct encompasses a range of behaviors that violate personal boundaries, consent, and ethical standards. Here are different types of sexual misconduct, along with examples:

Verbal Sexual Harassment:

Definition: Making unwanted sexual comments, advances, or requests for sexual favors through spoken or written words, creating a hostile environment.

Example: Making sexually explicit comments or sending explicit emails in a workplace setting, making someone uncomfortable.

Physical Touching Without Consent:

Definition: Engaging in any non-consensual physical contact of a sexual nature.

Example: Groping, fondling, or forcibly kissing someone without their agreement.

Non-Verbal Sexual Harassment:

Definition: Expressing unwelcome sexual advances, comments, or requests through non-verbal means like gestures, body language, or visual materials.

Example: Making lewd gestures, displaying explicit images, or sending sexually suggestive emojis without consent.

Rape:

Definition: Forcing someone into sexual intercourse or other sexual acts against their will, a clear and extreme form of sexual misconduct.

Example: Physically overpowering someone and sexually assaulting them.

Stalking:

Definition: Repeatedly following, monitoring, or contacting someone without their consent, causing them to fear for their safety and well-being.

Example: Relentlessly pursuing someone online, tracking their movements, and sending threatening messages.

Voyeurism:

Definition: Spying on individuals without their consent to obtain sexual pleasure, often by observing their private activities or body.

Example: Secretly filming someone undressing or engaging in sexual activities without their knowledge.

Exhibitionism:

Definition: Exposing one's genitals or engaging in sexual acts without consent or in inappropriate public places, often for self-gratification.

Example: Flashing someone or performing sexual acts in public without consent from others present.

Cyber-Harassment:

Definition: Using digital communication platforms to send explicit or harassing messages, images, or threats.

Example: Sending unsolicited explicit photos, engaging in online bullying, or sharing sexually explicit content without consent.

Sexual Exploitation:

Definition: Taking advantage of someone's vulnerability or inability to provide informed consent for sexual purposes.

Example: Engaging in sexual acts with someone who is incapacitated or unable to give consent due to intoxication or other factors.

Grooming:

Definition: Building a manipulative and controlling relationship with a vulnerable individual with the intent of sexually exploiting them.

Example: An adult befriends a minor online, gains their trust over time, and eventually coerces them into sexual activity.

Revenge Porn:

Definition: Sharing explicit photos or videos of someone without their consent, typically with the intent to harm, embarrass, or coerce them.

Example: Posting explicit images of an ex-partner online as an act of retaliation or coercion.

These examples illustrate the various forms of sexual misconduct, highlighting the importance of consent, respect, and ethical conduct in all interactions.

These examples illustrate the various forms of sexual misconduct that can occur and emphasize the importance of recognizing and addressing such behaviors to create safer and more respectful environments for all individuals.

Now, within this context, it is imperative to address situations where those in positions of authority engage in or condone such misconduct. In a recent audio recording, a victimized student bravely recounted her traumatic experiences at the hands of a senior faculty member. Her account revealed instances of harassment, abuse, and a flagrant disregard for consent.

In a society where power dynamics often go unchecked, it is crucial to understand the dire consequences of sexual misconduct, even when it does not culminate in what is traditionally perceived as sexual intercourse or rape. The student's narrative bears witness to the psychological and emotional scars inflicted when trust is betrayed, boundaries are violated, and the vulnerable are exploited.

It is disheartening that, despite hearing the student's harrowing experiences, the Minister of Women Affairs chose to dismiss the gravity of the situation with a statement that sent shockwaves through the nation. She asserted, "So there was no sex, no sex, no rape."

This response not only oversimplifies the multifaceted nature of sexual misconduct but also demonstrates a profound lack of empathy and understanding. It is a stark reminder of the urgent need for education and awareness regarding the different forms of sexual misconduct and their far-reaching impact.

Sexual misconduct encompasses a spectrum of behaviors that can leave lasting scars on victims, regardless of whether they meet a specific legal definition. It involves manipulative power dynamics, exploitation, and violations of trust, as vividly illustrated by the student's account. Such experiences can lead to severe psychological trauma, affecting victims' well-being, mental health, and future relationships.

In the face of such revelations, we must ponder the roles and responsibilities of leaders and institutions in safeguarding the rights and dignity of individuals, especially the vulnerable. It is a collective duty to foster environments where victims can come forward without fear of retribution or dismissal.

The Minister of Women Affairs, as a leader and advocate for women's rights, bears a significant responsibility in this regard. It is incumbent upon her to recognize the nuances of sexual misconduct, to show compassion for victims, and to take a stand against all forms of abuse. Only by doing so can we hope to create a society where justice, accountability, and empathy prevail.

This appeal is not just a call for justice; it is a call for a deeper understanding of the complexities of sexual misconduct. It is an appeal for ethical leadership that prioritizes the well-being of all citizens, particularly the vulnerable. It is an appeal for our nation to rise above the shadows of ignorance and indifference, to stand as a beacon of hope, and to nurture an environment where the cries of victims are heard, believed, and acted upon.

The global community is watching, and history will judge us not only by our actions but also by our commitment to righteousness and justice. Let our response to this clarion call reflect the values we hold dear, the principles we uphold, and the legacy we aspire to leave for generations yet unborn. May the pursuit of justice and empathy guide our path forward, leading to a Nigeria where all its citizens can flourish free from harassment, discrimination, and abuse.

Let us remember that it is not enough to fear God; we must also strive to act in accordance with the principles of justice, compassion, and accountability that our faiths have bequeathed upon us. In this endeavor, let us stand together to ensure a brighter, more equitable future for Nigeria.
14.09.2023 LISTEN

Young Africans have in some instances come to see military coups detats as a viable solution to other democratic end-runs, research from the Ichikowitz Family Foundation indicates.

In the wake of recent coups in Gabon and Niger, the Foundations latest African Youth Survey suggests that the rising generation wants to see democracy with distinctly African features prevail. When this is stifled, the next best alternative may be surprising to many.

While 61 percent of respondents to the Survey oppose coups detats, or instances of the army stepping in to govern the country, an alarming 22% or more than one in five youth are in favour of the army coming in to govern.

Coups are indeed more popular than one party rule or when all power is monopolized by the President. Support for one political party rule only garners 16%, while support for Presidential rule, where elections and parliament are abolished, received only 15%.

The African Youth Survey, commissioned by the Ichikowitz Family Foundation, is world renowned as the most comprehensive measurement of how Africas rising generation thinks about key issues. The study has twice conducted polls interacting with over 4,500 respondents, young Africans between the ages of 18-24 years, with its latest rendition engaging across 15 African countries  Angola, Congo Brazzaville, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Sudan, Uganda, and Zambia  as carried out by leading global polling firm, PSB Insights.

The Survey reveals that 21 percent of African youth have participated in a political demonstration themselves within a 12-month window of the Surveys administration (24 percent of Gabonese youth polled).

Gabons coup earlier this week came on the heels of a disputed presidential election in which then President Ali Bongo clung to power in a vote condemned by international observers.

The Gabonese military have named a general temporary head of state in what is now the eighth coup in Africa in just three years.

In Niger, the military toppled the democratically elected President Mohammed Bazoum in late July - only halfway into the civilian head of states term - in part because of public dissatisfaction with the governments ability to provide essential services, analysts have observed.

Niger has a long history of military coups, though many in the West had seen its recently deposed, civilian government as making progress in the war on terror.

Overall, nearly three-quarters (74 percent) of respondents to the Foundations most recent survey believe that democracy is better than any of its alternatives when it comes to governing their country. However, more than half (53 percent) also suggest that Western-style democracy may not always be appropriate for their situations, and that Africa must develop its own, unique model.

That process is not without its challenges - The most important pillar of democracy as indicated in the Survey was the notion of equality for all citizens under the law (49%). However 47% polled disagree that at present, their country treats citizens evenly, and in fact view inequality as dominant.

Youth are also split on where power should be concentrated within their country.

Nearly half (44%) believe that it would be beneficial to their country if more power was given to the national government; the other half (48%) contend that it would be more beneficial to grant greater authority to local and regional governance.

More than half (53%) polled ultimately suggest that their own national leaders and elected officials are untrustworthy, with the political establishment being the least trusted of all institutions evaluated.

The two coups which we witnessed unfold in the last few months can be compared to the growing pains of a continent that is democratizing and asserting its own identity, Ichikowitz Foundation Founder and Chairman Ivor Ichikowitz stated. These coups are a physical manifestation of the findings of the African Youth Survey that predicted how Africas youth are ready for change. We are likely to see more young Africans voting with their feet and initiating change when democratic processes are failing their expectations.

But military coups are not the solution. These events serve as a wake-up call to Africas leadership to listen to its young people  listen to their aspirations, their needs and dreams for the future. Who is listening to the voices of the youth today - the Presidents or the Generals, or neither? It is clear, ignoring the voices of Africas youth is no longer an option.

Young people are expressing their desire for a new style of democracy that meets the realities and challenges of the continent. A democratic system that will foster economic growth and true inclusivity, nation to nation, across the continent; ensuring greater representation of Africas youth, in most cases comprising the largest demographic of their country, so as to avert military intervention and to allow popular-based, civilian rule to grow and thrive in Africa, Ichikowitz concluded.
Rockson Adofo, the son of Kumawu/Asiampa soil, is calling on all discerning Ghanaians to rally in their numbers behind Kennedy Agyapong (Hon.) to enable him win the impending NPP flag bearer election slated for 4 November 2023.

Kennedy is best suited in these trying times, although not peculiar to Ghana, to become the president of Ghana come January 2025.

In my candid opinion, Ghanaian needs an honest, fair and firm person with vision and in possession of a masterplan to develop the country to become the next president after President Nana Akufo-Addo. Out of the four NPP competitors vying for the NPP flagbearer-cum-presidential-candidate slot, Kennedy stands taller in the qualities mentioned above than any of his colleague competitors.

Dont get me wrong, Dr Alhaji Mohamudu Bawumia is good, however, Kennedy is much better considering the current, or the ongoing lawlessness and indiscipline in the country, culminating in the ramifications of official corruption, devastation of most of the water bodies, arable and fertile lands and forests in the country through illegal small scale and alluvial mining.

How can we as a people sit on the fence watching while such elements of life have come under the heavy axe of destruction? Feeble and incapable as many of us are in the face of the destruction of the vital elements, it is just normal that we support in our numbers someone that has the wherewithal to stop the said devastation.

Again, the indiscipline ongoing in the country is a cause for alarm. The insolence and lawlessness where even journalists and radio presenters have come to see it as right to lie, misinform the people, insult some people all for their political partisanship, twist facts and wish evil for the country for a reason or the other, must stop.

Most of the problems facing the country can end when laws are strictly enforced. Once laws are enforced and breakers of the laws punished accordingly, Ghana will eventually be cloaked in her best apparel.

The only person with demonstrable indicators to solving the herculean lawlessness, corruption and malfeasance the country is plunged in is Kennedy Agyapong, that no-nonsense, fearless and proud son of Assin Dompim in the Central region.

If the Ghanaian poor masses are indeed seeking any sigh of relief from the near-chronic problems tormenting the country for over several decades, I shall entreat the NPP delegates to please vote for Kennedy Agyapong. They should not be selfish to think only about themselves and what they can enjoy today but to think about their future wellbeing and posterity, to cast their vote for who among the four competitors is best to solving Ghanas problems.

There should be no play of tribal cards or sentiments here. It is Ghana first!

I love Dr Bawumia but the interest of Ghana and Ghanaians come first hence going for, and rallying support for, Kennedy Agyapong.

As always said, I want to see a team comprising Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Alhaji Mohamudu Bawumia, Dr Kwabena Duffour and IGP Dr George Akuffo-Dampare to rule Ghana come 7 January 2025. Each of them has something unique where the combination of all their unique qualities can be used to quickly move Ghana forward.

Kennedy all the way to Jubilee House!
14.09.2023 LISTEN

Pardon, let us cut through the chase, the essential question is :Why would ECOWAS render itself a vehicle for abusive use and colonialists subterfuge when France and USA with superior military power and massive economic interests in Niger already have military presence on the ground if they want a massive African massacre to reinstate their vital uranium interests?

Africa's Independence

Is not Real and True

Not even a Truce

Dependency is the Trail

With full proofs and deep Roots

Francophone Africa

Has been in a Trance

An Embattled dependent in Transition ?

Due France incorrigible Intransigence

Dependency is a dark Tale

That can be visibly Traced

Now Hurricane ECOWAS

In a mode of internacine War

With its unveiled Self

Is To Help France

To Africa Trounce

Instead of France Denounce?

ECOWAS, ever the ready Serf

For some USA dollars , French francs and or British Pounds

ECOWAS will Pounce?

No Doubt

The War Bout

Will have Africa at its knees Bow

As they shoot endless Bows directed at no culprits Except Ourselves?

SO We Ask: Why is ECOWAS being led by an infamous racket of mis- leaders off their ruckers who are angling with blinkers on, marching to a colonial requiem mass in a graveyard of enslavement that never stopped?

It seems that whereas France has her francophone -African compact that ensures overt dictatorship and resource plunder; the British so entrenched the psyche of inferiority that ECOWAS misleaders willingly hand over resources in acquiescence for "power sharing" and corruption kick backs and allow military basis etc which they think gives them protection, So that their bad governance does not Unravel

When the now downgraded "tropical ECOWAS storm " decided to capsize Niger in order to essentially restore the dictatorial colonial order of France, were they blindsided? Oh no, they were acting in abject betrayal of Africa as they have always done in their entrenched self interest for their own power' sake.

This is why Huge Threatening clouds gather, as Africa is to ready herself to fight her self into a killing field of self - destructive stupor rather than stand up in collective defiance to finally resolve strangulating neo - colonial economic bongage which is the fundamental ongoing issue in Africa in general?

So Let US Ask :Why has ECOWAS "strongmen" brandishing war and the AU not issued an ultimatum to France to release Niger and all of francophone Africa from its financial and resource colonial Pact as part of a negotiated political and diplomatic settlement for coup juntas to hand over power?

Why is Niger the sole target for counter -coup intervention? Due to her coveted Uranium, Niger is to continue to be an open sesame for Western interests. The threatened Niger war, is certainly about URANIUM and other resources which can no longer be a urinal for France and her power allies to offend the conscience.

See how the military junta has done due justice by moving the price of Uranium from a bargain basement dysmal price of 86 pence per kilo which France was paying to world market price of 200. This is exemplary of the resource racketeering that is fundamental to the ongoing coup detats in francophone Africa

Can we inquire why ECOWAS with blinkers on did not threaten or initiate military interventions in Mali, Bukina Faso, or advocate AU war intervention in Chad etc. Is it because those pre-existing military coups are deemed justifiable REVOLT, saying , Enough with senseless endless colonial subjugation?

***Oh my goodness, Is the recent Gabon coup detat with Ali Bongo's pathetic plea for noise making, a palace -coup orchestrated by France in richochet self defense to continue to protect its interests while Niger coup is to be overthrown by an ECOWAS counter coup?. Oh la la coup detat by proxy, African leadership against African interests is back in the news.? Apparently nothing new!

Is the Gabon coup justifiable and the the Niger Coup Not ?

If there is a concept of justifiable coup detat, then would Niger coup junta fighting ultimately for economic freedom from France not be a matter of epic heroism worthy of commendation rather than condemnation? Just wondering?

Did we not hail freedom fighters in the Independence Struggle? and is economic freedom not integral to and without which Independence is truly meaningless?

I almost forgot, as a matter of fact some of these ECOWAS misleaders who are in a panicky self -protectionist mode have operative National Constitutions with entrenched clauses that protect coup makers from prosecution for treason as they prepare for war against Niger military junta. Can we ask why they have not removed specks from their democratic eyes?

While blaming Ukraine war for their woes, Hypocritical and bloodthirsty ECOWAS heads of States and governments ironically gunning for War in Niger are also afraid of their own corruption shadows, misgovernance, and harsh coup -enabling conditions in their respective countries as they sit in their glasshouses to throw would- be far reaching ammunition with dire international geo- political consequences. Have they fully assessed the human and developmental security Costs?

They know or ought to know that the pathos of intractable Economic injustice has given impetus and credence to the self styled freedom fighting Francophone African military juntas to Act against destabilised economies and resource drainage due to their dependent Independence in overt strangulating and certainly illogical contractual pacts with Imperialist France.

Anglophone West Africa dutifully and shamefully comply covertly to the tune of their colonial masters in the dance of economic savagery that impoverish their citizens even with no pacts because they are corrupt, selfish, greedy and without sacrificial empathy for the nations they lead

It is indeed ECOWAS citizens who should be up in arms against economic malaise and misgovenance by their knee - jerk leaders kotowing to their own selfish and western interests without or perhaps inspite of a nuanced understanding of the renewed winds of change blowing furiously against Neo -colonial oppression to which they are summary beneficiaries .

The Ruderless ECOWAS heads of States and government misleaders looking War in the face and faking righteous anger as they claim to seek peace in the name of a mythical democracy and rule of law which they do not practice Led by Tinubu of Nigeria who is in desperate need of legitimacy from a compromised election and Ouatara of Ivory Coast in an "illicit" 3rd term otherwise known as constitutional coup detat have no moral standing

With Ghana, trumpeting herself as a Gateway to Africa with an International airport named after Gen.Kotoka who led the overthrow of the late iconic Nkrumah, ECOWAS leaders are looking like a curiously dubious bunch subjugating a huge mass of ECOWAS citizens as condemned perennial beggars in a poverty dichotomy dependent on fatigued foreign Aid, cyclical and addictive IMF Loans with deadly "hair- cuts" etc. while debilitating huge debt burdens are without commensurate developmental evidence in spite of vantage multi natural resource endowments exploited for the benefit of enriched western countries.

It is this overall scenario of Economic injustice that has re-birthed the Francophone military juntas against their destabilised economies and resource drainage since their dependent Independence !

ECOWAS leaders if unyielding to the significant voices urging diplomacy and caution must know that their Niger misadventure will be no panacea or deterrence to coups without resolving the fundamental issue of neo-colonial economic sabotage and injustice and their own greedy and selfish undemocratic misrule while cavoting with colonial masters and expatriate firms to perpetuate long arm interests in signing idiotic agreements comparable to rape and armed robberies while they live in their Presidential folly paradise of plenty, And, the masses live in unmasked angst of unyielding mediocrity and indignities while pivotal resources service the west at a pittance.

If this unmitigated exploitation is what rule of law and democracy looks like for Africa as defined by neo - colonial and western Imperialists with their threatening military bases all over Africa with complicity by African leaders to ensure compliance of a continent in chains, Who needs this defaced version of democracy ?

Who owns and manages the oil fields that drip exploitative riches, the Timber and gold that tumbles our forests into embers of sorrows and leaves us wastelands. Who owns our diamonds that causes us teardrops ? ECOWAS heads of States and governments happily and harply shortchange their nations for 5 to 10% crumbs and royalties that ensure our governments loyalties to their masters while similar agreements elsewhere have better metrics.

**** The problem is African leadership morass, corruption and ineptitude as they sell the continent cheap for hospice care that keeps Africa hostage in an economic cave.***

So then, as ECOWAS heads ponder going to stage a counter coup in Niger under the guise and misguidance of rule of law and reinstatement of democracy, What rule of law is being practised by France in her strangulating colonial compact of horrendous economic injustice?

Should ECOWAS not be more concerned about impoverished masses and perennial resource mismanagement and poverty syndrome tatoed on the foreheads of the vast African laughing stock we call independent Africa?

We are certainly not naievely unwary of military adventurists who bolt onto the scene with idealistic outrage, often commit atrocities for which they negotiate amnesties prior to leaving the scene or revamp into fake civilian rulership. They play to the gallery of expectations at outset, clothed with a self proclaimed loyalty mantle, but they are not equipped to rule and soon become corrupt and inept and betray the civilians who hail their so called redemption or liberation with hope of a fresh start. This is also the dilemma of the known ghosts of military dictatorships

However, right now the military juntas are a cause celebre, they are self styled "neo -freedom fighters "and must they be dislodged or rather reasoned with to gradually hand over after sanity is made to prevail with France ?

***Is This not an opportune moment to intervene with the entire West that bulldoze her way through Africa's resource rich continent with such a tour de force that they cause our economic walls to cave in so that we are unable to stand united as we fall???? Where are the EU and UN in all of this?

Why has the AU living in its compromised "Chinese castle" (what a disgrace to African pride) , not issued an ultimatum to France to release francophone Africa from its insufferable financial and resource drainage that saps its essence in imperialist supremacy and oppression .



ECOWAS must note that war vultures have already gathered. Even when the borders and air spaces are closed , arms have poured in from the sahel and elsewhere, deals behind the scenes have already been cut, Niger is not the only prize, it is all of Africa that will pay a needless price in human sacrifice, in political instability in food and climate insecurity , deepen her wounds of third world stigma , a continent that need to stand up and be counted on the world stage by rapid developmental engagement in research and usage of technology etc must quit the misleadership crass and selfishness and corruption mania that holds us bound by the bootstraps of Presidential and heads of states and goverments treachery in the weighing and balancing of the treasuries

They must certainly reference Ukraine if they think they are going in for a quick snipper action fix when their own economies are in disarray; they should look at Ukraine closely,they should look at the complexity of a Nato / USA, China Russia, Wagner and insurrectionists proxy war and the arms proliferation nightmare that surely is, and, will intensify. They must look themselves closely in the mirror of Truth and self censure before going trigger happy in Niger.

Indeed is it not time for most of ECOWAS current leadership to vacate the scene, as joint custodians of developmental ineptitude?

Will the impoverished masses of ECOWAS continue to be too timid to spontaneously riot for the justice due them? Will this supposed Niger coup deterrence not backfire and stoke more profound Freedom fires to be lit? Remember Sri Lanka?

Even if ECOWAS were to have temporary success in disengaging the military in Niger as a distraction to their failures at home, will this diversionary tactic stop the tide of conscientious objection ?

Can anyone stop an eruption of spontaneous justice when citizens Rise Up at the appropriate time and gather fearless courage? what then? what will ECOWAS governments do? Declare war on and Slaughter their citizens So that Economic dependence shall have ultimate fruition..?

ECOWAS that is ever so slow in collaborating on resource and developmental synergies must instead of flexing muscles to bolster western interests on the ground, retool to fight for her soul in developmental dignity.

Henceforth, Should criteria for an African Presidency ought not include preparedness to die.? to stand up to neo_ colonialists for what is right even if imperialist forces will kill you or engineer your overthrow?. Will they not reach a saturation point ?

ECOWAS and the AU must ACT to Free Francophone Africa from her tirade of strangulating indefensible contractual strictures with the understanding that the independence Halleluiah chorus was hollow and expedient and without concrete foundation . Do we hold our breath in futility?

Shall we say, shall we put it this way. Au revoir France? AU Revoir Imperial subjugation by the West? WHEN? Viva Economic Freedom ?

Email : [email protected]
Minister for Works and Housing, Mr Francis Asenso-Boakye, has expressed satisfaction at the quality of work undertaken by Ghanaian contractors on the 201 housing units in Tema Community 22.

The project is made up of 2- and 3-bedrooms, townhouses and flats under Phase II of the National Homeownership Fund (NHF) project.

The 201 residential apartments under Phase II, having seen Phase 1 (204 housing units) commissioned by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in 2020, is a joint initiative between the Ministry of Works and Housing and the Ministry of Finance.

The project, constructed by the TDC Development Company Limited, is a gated estate with amenities such as electricity, water, tarred roads, covered drains as well as other essential facilities (schools, hospitals, recreational centres).

The project is aimed at ensuring that low-to-middle-income Ghanaians can afford housing units under the National Mortgage Scheme (NMS) being operated by the National Homeownership Fund in partnership with a consortium of financial institutions.

In his remarks, the Sector Minister said the completion of the first and second phases of the project is a testament to the governments commitment to providing affordable housing to Ghanaians.

Acknowledging the daunting challenge of access to decent housing units in the country, Mr Asenso-Boakye urged Ghanaians to leverage the National Mortgage Scheme as an ideal way of owning homes in the country.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the NHF, Mr Delali Zumani, disclosed that Phase II of the project is scheduled to be completed and inaugurated next month, October while construction of Phase III, a 230 housing units (mix of 2- and 3-bedroom units and apartment blocks), is to commence soon.

Mr Zumani stated that the National Mortgage Scheme is currently working with five financial institutions namely, GCB Bank, Stanbic Bank, Republic Bank, Cal Bank and Access Bank, to operate a blended financing concept that provides mortgage rates lower than market rates to prospective homeowners.
The Ghana Shippers' Authority (GSA) has urged cattle traders in the Northern Region to utilize the Ghana Trade Corridors E-Platform when transporting goods to the southern part of the country.

This forms part of efforts by the Authority to mitigate the incidence of harassment cattle traders from the northern regions experience at the hands of personnel of the Ghana Police Service while plying their trade.

Officers of the Tamale Branch of the GSA who randomly patrolled the roads to inquire about the reasons for stopping and delaying transit trucks have in most cases facilitated the prompt resolution of issues and enabled the speedy release of the trucks.

An officer of the Tamale Branch of the GSA, Mr Abdul-Karim Muhsin, in an interaction with the traders in the Northern Region, admonished cattle traders to use the e-platform's contact number (0547383875) in situations where they encounter difficulties with the Police.

He said the E-platform facilitates the monitoring of non-tariff barriers and aids the speedy resolution of complaints from traders and truck drivers.

It also allows shippers, agents, hauliers and other corridor operators to report difficulties in real-time by calling a designated number, as well as seek clarification on other operational matters, he stated.

Mr Abdul-Karim Muhsin assured the cattle traders that the Ghana Shippers' Authority is actively exploring alternative interventions to reduce instances of Police harassment, stressing that the details of these initiatives would be made public in due course.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has denounced claims by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) that the Akufo Addo-led government has shortchanged cocoa farmers with a 63% increase in the producer price of cocoa.

According to the party, a new method used to calculate the new producer prices were done excluding other charges such as insurance and freight.

He added that the government used an exchange rate of GHS11.50 to a dollar in calculating the prices as against the NDC of GHS11.30 to a dollar.

It would be recalled that on Saturday, H.E Nana Akufo Addo announced the new producer price which has been greeted with widespread gratification by the entire cocoa community in Ghana.

The Minority at a forum on Wednesday, September 13, in the Bono Ahafo region descended on the government and Management of COCOBOD, accusing the Chief Executive of running down the institution.

They want the CEO Joseph Aidoo to resign.

But at a counter press conference in Accra addressed by the NPP's Director of Communication, Richard Ahiagbah said "The accusations by the NDC are mischievous and intentional to confuse farmers."

Mr. Richard Ahiagbah indicated that, under the NPP administration, Ghana recorded its highest-ever production of one million and forty-five thousand five hundred metric tonnes (1,045,500) in the 2020/21 Crop Season. "Therefore, it is not accurate when the NDC claims that the NPP has a poor track record in cocoa production."

"In fact, in their case in 2009, when the country recorded a million tonnes, it was due to the ripple effects of the interventions introduced by the then NPP administration under President John Agyekum Kufuor," he said.

He underscored that it is only under the NPP administration that producer Price has gone up by 63.5% from GH12,800 per metric tonne (GH800.00 per bag) to GH20,943 or $1,821 per metric tonne, equivalent to GH1,308 per bag.

"Ghana's new producer price of cocoa is the highest in 50 years among the West African sub-regional cocoa-producing countries. It is only under the NPP that Over 30,000 Ghanaians have been employed in cocoa-producing communities that are rehabilitating and restoring affected cocoa farms. The companies handling the rehabilitation intend to add more workers," he added.

He is urging cocoa farmers and Ghanaians to ignore NDC's claims.
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu has expressed concern about the ongoing limited voter registration exercise by the Electoral Commission (EC).

The EC on Tuesday, September 12, commenced a limited voter registration exercise in its District Offices to register Ghanaians who are 18 years and above.

Persons who have attained the age of 18 years since the last registration exercise and those who for one reason or the other did not register in 2020, should visit the District Office where they reside with either their Ghana Card or their Ghana Passport.

Eligible applicants who do not possess any of the identification documents listed above are required to present two (2) persons who are already registered voters to guarantee their registration, the EC said in a statement before the start of the exercise.

After visiting the registration centre in Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu accused the EC of using the voter registration exercise to weaken the strongholds of the NDC.

According to him, the people of his Constituency will give the Electoral Commission war if that is what the EC wants.

What the EC is doing we believe is part of a grand scheme by the NPP administration to suppress votes where they think it is the stronghold of the NDC and we will not allow that to happen.

In Madina here, we have told them that if they want to do this exercise in peace because we are for peace but if they want war we shall give them war that is what we want them to know, the MP said.

The ongoing Limited Voter Registration exercise will end on Monday, October 2.
Local governments will shell out millions of dollars more starting this year providing legal defense to those who cannot afford to pay for their own lawyers.

Local leaders grapple with problems, politics and perceptions of asylum-seekers after second felony arrest The asylum-seeker accused of sex abuse and unlawful imprisonment of a human services employee is in the Erie County Holding Center without bail. But concerns linger about how, and to what extent, migrants are being vetted to ensure the safety of residents.

The extra costs result from New York State more than doubling the pay rate for lawyers who represent poor clients charged with crimes.

The higher rates mean a $4 million hit to the Erie County budget this year and a projected $10.8 million cost next year.

The rate for private lawyers who participate in the Erie County Bar Associations Assigned Counsel Program used to be $60 an hour for misdemeanor cases and $75 for felony cases. The new rate is $158 an hour across the board.

Local leaders grapple with problems, politics and perceptions of asylum-seekers after second felony arrest The asylum-seeker accused of sex abuse and unlawful imprisonment of a human services employee is in the Erie County Holding Center without bail. But concerns linger about how, and to what extent, migrants are being vetted to ensure the safety of residents.

Unlike the Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, which has salaried public defenders who primarily handle misdemeanor cases in Buffalo City Court, and some low-level felonies, most low-income defendants charged with felony cases in Erie County are represented by private-practice lawyers who agree to accept such cases as part of the Assigned Counsel Program operated by the Erie County Bar Association.

The higher rates took effect on April 1, but it took the county five months to approve the additional money.

The increase to the county this year is projected to be $8 million, but the state is reimbursing half the cost through March of next year. Lobbying arms for local governments are expected to fight for ongoing reimbursement next year, criticizing the imposition of the unfunded mandate.

The last rate increase for lawyers in the Assigned Counsel Program happened 20 years ago, said Michelle Parker, the programs executive director.

During a County Legislature work session last Thursday, Legislator Jeanne Vinal, an Amherst Democrat and also a lawyer, said she knew of no pay rates as low as for attorneys in the Assigned Counsel Program.

Burden of assigned counsel rate hike

Instead of incrementally raising the rate over the years  the rate had remained flat since 2003  the state in one fell swoop increased it by 111% for lawyers handling felony cases and 163% for those handling misdemeanor cases.

The County Legislature didnt approve funding for the $4 million increase until last week because it was initially unclear where the county would draw money to pay for it and the lawmakers were on recess in August. So many lawyers handling indigent defense cases didnt get paid the higher amount, which must now be paid retroactively.

Local leaders grapple with problems, politics and perceptions of asylum-seekers after second felony arrest The asylum-seeker accused of sex abuse and unlawful imprisonment of a human services employee is in the Erie County Holding Center without bail. But concerns linger about how, and to what extent, migrants are being vetted to ensure the safety of residents.

Ultimately, the county funded the legal pay with $4 million in unanticipated county Medicaid cost savings.

Parker called the one-time leaps in lawyer rates for public defense cases a bad practice.

You know, it should be a standard thing, she said. It should be something that every county should be able to budget for every year. But to do it like this, its no good to anybody.

While a lift for local governments, lawyers will reap the benefits of the higher rate, which must be paid retroactive to April 1.

The Assigned Counsel Program was established by the Bar Association one year before the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 1963 that the Constitution gives criminal defendants the right to legal representation in state and federal courts, regardless of their ability to pay for a lawyer. The program currently has about 200 lawyers who serve on different panels of expertise and are assigned to indigent clients on a rotating basis.

The Assigned Counsel Program is not part of Erie County government, but the county is the programs primary funder. Representatives with the program told legislators it was getting harder to entice private lawyers to take on the cases with the rates as low as $60 and $75 an hour.

Cost of legal counsel for migrants

Republican Legislator Chris Greene, R-Clarence, quizzed Deputy Budget Director Mark Cornell about whether the costs associated with the Assigned Counsel Program extended to lawyers defending migrants who came to Erie County from New York City, including two charged with felony sex offense crimes.

Cornell said the right to an attorney, under both state and federal law, applies to criminal defendants regardless of citizenship, residency, taxpayer status, race, religion or ethnicity.

I assume that means yes, Greene said.

That would mean all people accused of a crime in Erie County have the right to effective counsel, Cornell responded.

Greene asked if County Executive Mark Poloncarz made an inaccurate statement when he said all costs associated with asylum-seekers bused to Erie County would be paid for by New York City.

Cornell said, I think that statement would be specific toward the housing of asylum-seekers and didnt contemplate the possibility of incarceration of those accused of a crime.
14.09.2023 LISTEN

New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer aspirant, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto has said he is the beacon of hope to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to victory in the general elections in 2024.

According to Dr. Akoto, he is the only contender who has a possibility of winning.

Speaking to journalists at his campaign headquarters, he said his vision for agriculture will revive the economy.

I am more motivated than ever to carry the NPPs flag and ultimately secure power for the party. Among all the candidates vying for the NPP flagbearer role, who presents a vision more compelling than mine? My aspirations for the NPP and for Ghana instill hope, and thats why hundreds of thousands of Ghanaians are urging me to press on and fight until I bring power to them. I cant let them down, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto stated.

He added, I am Ghanas hope. I have already outlined the broader strokes of my vision. As the campaign advances, numerous Ghanaians have assured me of their support, and Im not retreating.

Dr Akoto, a former two-term Member of Parliament for Kwadaso in the Ashanti region, placed fourth in the NPP Special Delegates Conference on Saturday, August 26, 2023.

In the run-up to the NPPs November 4 primary, Dr. Akoto is poised to intensify his campaign efforts while recalibrating his strategies.

Over 200,000 party delegates are expected to vote in this highly anticipated presidential election.

The Akoto campaign team is working to secure more than half of the votes, a crucial milestone in determining who leads NPP in the 2024 general elections.
Deputy General Secretary of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, has alleged that the Member of Parliament for the Bimbilla Constituency, Dominic Nitiwul, has been enticing some Ghanaians with money to induce them to enrol on the voter register.

Gbande made the allegation on Eyewitness News on Citi FM on Tuesday, September 12, as the Electoral Commission (EC) commenced its limited voter registration exercise ahead of the District Level Elections.

Gbande described the development as unfortunate and urged the EC to take steps to ensure a smooth, transparent, and credible registration process.

The people have started their stock in trade, particularly in a constituency like the Bimbilla constituency where the MP there shares physical money with people before they join the queue to register and I am talking about Dominic Nitiwuls constituency and that is a very unfortunate development and it is not right for our democracy, Gbande said.

Government appointees will always want to engage in sharing money to be able to solicit a common exercise like the writing of names and if the Electoral Commission had listened to our calls, I believe we would have avoided all these circumstances where people would have to be sharing money to get others to register.

citinewsroom
The commander-in-chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards, Hossein Salami, is one of three senior officials targeted in a rare criminal complaint filed with Paris prosecutors Thursday.

Along with Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib and Al-Quds force chief Esmail Qaani, Salami is accused of "death threats and justifying terrorism," a lawyer for the six Iranian and Franco-Iranian plaintiffs said.

Their case refers to public threats issued by the three men between December 2022 and January 2023 against people backing the nationwide protests in Iran over the death of Mahsa Amini, arrested for violating Iran's female dress code.

Khatib said on December 13 last year that "anyone playing a role in the riots will be punished, wherever they are in the world".

The declaration was spread widely in the press and on social media, according to the text of the criminal complaint seen by AFP.

Charlie Hebdo

Meanwhile, Salami himself said on January 10 that "the French people and the managers of (satirical anti-clerical magazine) Charlie Hebdo" should not "concern themselves with the fate of Salman Rushdie".

The British author has long been subject to a fatwa calling for his killing issued by Iran's late leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini and was gravely wounded in an August 2022 knife attack. Charlie Hebdo staff were massacred by jihadist gunmen in 2015 after publishing cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed.

"These threats are in fact just so many disguised fatwas"  an Islamic legal decree  against Iranian opposition activists around the world, said Chirinne Ardakani, a French-Iranian lawyer from the Iran Justice Collective.

"The regime of the Islamic Republic of Iran and its agents are keeping up a long tradition of threatening Iranian opposition figures in exile with death, hunting and murdering them on French and European soil," the 22-page legal complaint read.

Some living in France since the 1980s and others recently exiled, the six plaintiffs include a filmmaker, a journalist, a writer and an LGBT rights activist, all of whom have made public stands against Tehran.

Uprising anniversary

Their largely symbolic complaint marks the first anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini on September 16, 2022  which triggered the "Woman. Life. Freedom" movement across Iran.

"It's about showing the Iranian regime, which wants to suffocate opposition, that wherever Iranians are in the world, they will continue to make themselves heard," Ardakani said.

"We're sending up balloons, we're using every avenue offered by French law, but the final aim is to have the perpetrators of atrocities prosecuted and brought to justice in France," she added.

The France-based Iran Justice Collective has been documenting abuses and repression against demonstrators over the past year, which the group says have resulted in hundreds of deaths and thousands of arrests.
Tamale Central Member of Parliament (MP), Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed has expressed worry about what he describes as the politicisation of the Ghana Police Service under the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Concerns of politicisation in the Police Service have come up in the past couple of months after an audio recording of a plot to remove the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare was leaked.

The audio captured a conversation between former Northern Regional Chairman of the NPP, Chief Bugri Naabu, and some top Policemen including COP George Alex Mensah and Supt. George Asare.

In the conversation, they are heard making the argument that the ruling New Patriotic Party will struggle to win the 2024 General Election to break the 8 if IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare is not removed.

On Tuesday, September 12, the IGP went before the Parliamentary Committee probing the leaked audio tape to address various allegations made against him by COP George Alex Mensah and Supt. George Asare.

Speaking to Joy News on the fallout of that engagement, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed said he nearly shed tears listening to the IGP.

I nearly shed tears when Dampare appeared before the committee. The politicization of the Police Service under this government is frightening, the Tamale Central MP said.

During his engagement with the Parliamentary Committee, the IGP denied the allegation that he was mismanaging the service and stressed that he is focused on transforming the service.
An alleged Cocoa Fund set up by former President John Dramani Mahama during his tenure of office to serve as a pension scheme for farmers in the sector was nonexistent, Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) Chief Executive Officer Joseph Boahen Aidoo has said.

Apart from its non-existence, it also had no allocated fund, Mr Aidoo told Accra-based Asempa FM's Ekosii Sen programme recently.

It was a response to a claim by Asunafo South MP Eric Opoku during a cocoa farmers' conference in the Ahafo Region on Wednesday, 13 September 2023 that the Mahama administration set aside GHS28.9 million as seed money for the Cocoa Farmers Pension Scheme, for which the Akufo-Addo government is claiming credit.

Mr Opoku said: "The Mahama administration left GHS28.9 million as seed money for a cocoa farmer pension scheme before leaving office, but the current administration has misappropriated the money and continues to claim to have introduced the scheme".

In his rebuttal, however, Mr Aidoo said the fund was empty.

"There was no money in the Cocoa Farmers Pension Scheme as the NDC and former President Mahama claim", he told the programme, adding: "The amount was only stated in a ledger, but there was no real money".

"How come no farmer was engaged or heard about it?" he wondered, and threw a challenge to the biggest opposition party thus: "I dare the NDC to come out and tell us which bank they deposited the money to and the name of the fund".

Mr Aidoo said he found it puzzling that the fund found expression in the Auditor-General's report.

"The Auditor-General used a ledger from 2011, so, why is the NDC not mentioning Atta-Mills?" he questioned.

"We didnt even know there was a ledger until it was discovered when the auditors came. So, there was no account", he insisted.

According to him, the Akufo-Addo government is now putting the scheme in place to cushion retired farmers.

"When I came, there was no database of farmers but we instituted the cocoa management system through which 790,000 farmers have been captured. Out of this number, 100,000 have been enrolled on the scheme and we hope to get everyone onboard by the end of the year", he noted.

"We also hope to have about GHS74 million cedis in it", Mr Aidoo added.

-Classfmonline
Ghanaian broadcaster Paul Adom Otchere has criticized Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare for being overly emotional during his appearance at the parliamentary ad hoc committee probing the leaked tape to oust him from office.

According to Mr. Otchere, the IGP is only seeking public sympathy.

He said during his Good Evening Ghana program on Metro TV, that Dampare did not demonstrate the necessary masculinity to manage the Ghana Police Service.

You Dr. Dampare they brought you to the parliamentary enquiry so that you can answer and they have given you the platform so the people of Ghana can hear the truth, all you do is to cry, a whole police crying, COP Commissioner of Police, you are crying.

He is crying because three police officers have said something about him that are untrue and is very painful so he is crying. If I were the President and I employed him, I will tell him Chief, I dont think that you can continue your thing, I mean why was he crying, to seek public sympathy, who tells him he needs public sympathy, he needs to design the system and deal with it, Paul Adom Otchere stated.

Three police officers; COP George Alex Mensah, Superintendent George L. Asare and Superintendent Emmanuel Gyabi were captured in a leaked tape plotting the oust the Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, seeking the help of the former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Bugri Naabu.

Bugri Naabu recorded the conversation secretly which got leaked, causing a public uproar, which resulted in parliament referring the matter to an ad hoc committee to investigate the controversy.

Dr Dampare told the committee that all the allegations leveled against him by his subordinates were falsehoods which have no basis.

He also disputed claims by one of his accusers, COP Alex George Mensah that he was the worst IGP Ghana has ever had.
The Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu Constituency, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has argued that what Ghana needs is a befitting economy and not befitting offices for institutions.

This is in reaction to the call by the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta for Ghanaians to support the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to build its new headquarters.

In an article by the Finance Minister on Thursday, September 14, he defended the Central Banks decision to build a new head office, insisting that it is crucial for BoG to modernise its operations.

With respect to the BoGs new headquarters, the evidence is clear that decisions to build had already been made long before these losses occurred.

It is important for us to support such a critical institution to modernise its operations and have a befitting office space for a country that hosts the AfCFTA and has the vision to become the financial services hub of the continent, Ken Ofori-Atta said.

Reacting to this portion of the Article, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said it would be better to support the building of a befitting economy first before thinking about building a befitting headquarters for the BoG.

Why not build a befitting economy for all of us first? This is the self-acclaimed Solid Team, the North Tongu MP said.

The building of the new head office building is one of many reasons why the Minority is pushing for BoG Governor Dr. Ernest Addison to resign.

The Minority shares the view that in the midst of the economic challenges facing the country, now is not the time to build a new head office.
A dozen countries including France have stepped up their aid campaigns to help Libya, where significant flooding caused by storm Daniel has left thousands dead and injured and many more missing.

The city of Derna, in the country's east was hardest hit, with tsunami-like floods that ripped away buildings and vehicles.

Many were swept out into the sea, with bodies later washing up on beaches littered with debris and car wrecks.

The confirmed death toll reached 3,840 by Wednesday afternoon, according to Lieutenant Tarek al-Kharraz, spokesman for the eastern-based government's interior ministry.

The figure includes 3,190 victims who have already been buried and at least 400 foreigners, mostly from Sudan and Egypt, Kharraz told French news agency AFP, adding 2,400 people were still missing.

Death toll still climbing

However, some media reports have quoted officials giving higher tolls.

The mayor of Derna estimated between 18,000 and 20,000 people have died in the floods.

Abdulmenam Al-Ghaithi told al-Arabiya TV these figures were based on the number of districts completely destroyed when two dams burst at the weekend.

Tamer Ramadan of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (ICRC) said earlier that the organisation had independent sources saying that "the number of missing people is hitting 10,000 persons so far".

International aid arrives

France announced it was sending around 53 rescuers and tonnes of health supplies to Libya along with a field hospital that would up and running by Friday.

Egypt's president Abdel Fattah al-Sisi ordered "the establishment of shelter camps" for survivors, according to state media.

Turkey, was sending additional assistance by ship, including two field hospitals.

A naval vessel from Italy was also expected to be off Libya Thursday to provide logistical and medical support.

Algeria, Qatar and Tunisia have also pledged to help, while the United Arab Emirates sent two planes carrying 150 tonnes of aid. Another 40 tonnes of supplies took off Wednesday on a Kuwaiti flight.

Palestinian media reported a rescue mission had left from Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, and Jordan sent a military plane loaded with food parcels, tents, blankets and mattresses.

The United Nations has pledged $10 million to support Libya's survivors, including at least 30,000 people it said had been left homeless in Derna, almost a third of the eastern Libyan city's pre-disaster population.

Britain announced it was sending an "initial package" of aid worth up to 1 million ($1.25 million). London said it was working with "trusted partners on the ground" to identify the most urgent basic needs, including shelter, health care and sanitation.

The European Union said assistance from Germany, Romania and Finland had been sent.

Structural problems

Libya is still recovering from the war and chaos that followed the NATO-backed uprising which toppled and killed longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

The country has been left divided between two rival governments  the UN-brokered, internationally recognised administration based in Tripoli, and a separate administration in the disaster-hit east.

Climate experts have linked Libya's disaster to a combination of the impacts of a heating planet and the country's years of political chaos and underinvestment in infrastructure.

The United Nations said Thursday that most of the thousands of deaths could have been averted if early warning and emergency management systems had functioned properly.

With better functioning coordination in the crisis-wracked country, "they could have issued the warnings and the emergency management forces would have been able to carry out the evacuation of the people, and we could have avoided most of the human casualties," Petteri Taalas, head of the UN's World Meteorological Organization, told reporters.

Erik Tollefsen, head of the weapon contamination unit at the International Committee of the Red Cross, also warned of risks posed by landmines planted during the war and now shifted by flood waters into areas previously free of weapon contamination.

(with newswires)
14.09.2023 LISTEN

Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI) Ghana, a non-profit organisation promoting human rights, education and activism among young people has condemned the disturbances on August 30, 2023, that claimed some lives and destroyed property in the Hohoe Municipality.

The clashes at Gbi Godenu caused two deaths and injured others in addition to burning of houses, cars and motorbikes, followed an earlier incident, where a Police vehicle knocked down a man off his motorbike over alleged contraband and the setting ablaze of the Police vehicle involved.

Wednesdays incident has brought Police brutality in the Gbi Godenu and Gbi Wegbe areas of the Municipality to three and causing irreparable injuries to two others within the last eight months.

The group in a press statement signed by its National Coordinator, Mr George Hawkins Adzomah and copied to Ghana News Agency said everything must be done to especially, discourage excessive use of force by security personnel saying, that, apart from being a violation of human rights, it was also a recipe for violence and instability.

The use of excessive force by security officers is a violation of human rights. It is also a recipe for violence and instability. We urge the government to take steps to ensure that security officers are professionally trained and disciplined, and that they are held accountable for their actions.

It said the group regretted the August 30 disturbances and called on both security personnel and community members to exercise restraints to prevent needless loss of lives and destruction of property.

YHRI Ghana strongly condemns the security brutality and violence that occurred at Godenu in the Hohoe Municipality on 30th August 2023.

We are deeply saddened by the death of an alleged suspect at the hands of security officers, and we are also appalled by the damage to public and private property that was caused by the community members.

We call on both sides to exercise restraint and allow for proper investigations into this incident. We also call on the government and the Municipal Chief Executive to constitute an independent body to investigate the incident and to punish all those responsible, regardless of their position or affiliation.

The statement underscored the need for community members especially, to always consider peaceful means of conveying their grievances and not resorting to violence as the consequences of that could be dire.

We also call on the community members to refrain from violence. There are other ways to seek justice and to hold those responsible to account. Violence will only lead to more violence and further damage to the community.

GNA
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has said that cocoa farmers have enjoyed the most juicy pricing and offers under its administration.

Addressing journalists in Accra, NPP Director of Communications Richard Ahiagbah said that the recent announcement of a 68 percent increase in producer price is a clear indication that the government has cocoa farmers at heart.

This NPP government led by Nana Akufo-Addo thought about Ghanaians and generated that additional income for them, a free $400 living income differential. The dream of this government in the COCOBOD Act for years is realising the dream of creating a pension fund for cocoa farmers and it is becoming a reality, Ahiagbah said.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Saturday, September 9, announced a 63.6% upward adjustment of the farm gate price of cocoa beans from GH800 to GH1,308 per bag for the new cocoa season.

The National Democratic Congress has accused the party of failing to adequately support cocoa farmers. The opposition NDC has said that the NPP has not done enough to address the challenges facing cocoa farmers, such as low prices and poor infrastructure.

-Citi Newsroom
The Snyder Fire Department in Amherst received the Firefighters Association of the State of New York's Recruitment and Retention Award at the association's recent convention in the Town of Niagara.

As with fire departments across the state, the Snyder Fire Department had experienced a dwindling number of volunteers to respond to more fire and emergency medical services calls, according to Edward Tase, president of the Firefighter's Association of the State of New York. The department has 70 members who average 52 years of age, which is similar to the national average.

Having previously recruited, on average, two new members per year, it welcomed 21 new members in 2022. Five additional recruits joined in 2023.

In 2020, the Snyder Fire Department formed a committee that developed a four-part recruitment plan that included expanding residency boundaries for members. The department also hosted "Coffee with a Firefighter" events in which prospective volunteers could visit the fire station, have a cup of coffee, take a tour and talk with firefighters.

 Harold McNeil
14.09.2023 LISTEN

Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has warned residents of Nsawam Adoagyiri and its environs to respect and adhere stringently to the Public Order Act in order to avoid the wrath of the state.

This follows a shooting incident in August at Nsawam Adoagyiri which resulted in the death of three persons and led to the hospitalization of five others.

Speaking with journalists after visiting the bereaved families on Thursday, Eastern Regional Minister and REGSEC Chairman, Seth Kwame Acheampong, said that residents must get in touch with the Ghana Police Service (GPS) before holding any special events of any sort.

We are enforcing the public order act and we are asking the people within this municipality to respect the public order act in particular in taking steps in respect of subsections 1 to 5, Acheampong said.

We are saying that each and every person that decides to hold a special event must get in touch with the appropriate state institution which is the Ghana Police Service and give them notice as the law stipulates. We expect all and sundry to abide by these enactments. We expect every person to abide by these rules.

Acheampong also said that the police were yet to make any arrests with regard to the disturbance which led to the killing of three people.

Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for the area, Frank Annoh Dompreh, has called on both factions to remain calm and ensure peace prevails in the area.

We should give peace a chance. But ordinarily, my people are peaceful. There was a cause to it and we must all be seen to be addressing that. I am happy that the regional minister has taken the matter up. The signals were on the wall so we shouldnt take things for granted. We should just beef up security and I am sure we will come on top of the situation, Dompreh said.

I am a very sad man because we are beginning to get development projects that we have never experienced in many years and all of a sudden this came in. But I am sure we will deal with it. The feedback is very encouraging. So we will continuously appeal to residents and the youth that in the case of extreme provocation they should still exercise restraint.
Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya Sarah Adwoa Sarfo has explained what led to her to abandon her constituents and parliamentary duties without permission or proper explanation.

The former Minister for Gender and Social Protection vacated her post to the United States under the guise of taking care of her sick son since December 2021.

Efforts to get her back to her post proved futile, accounting for a heightened call for the public to get her removed from her ministerial role, a call which compelled the President to dismiss her.

And attempts to get her out of Parliament by her own party over her frequent absenteeism did not work.

After a while, the MP has now apologized to her party, President Akufo-Addo, constituents and the entire Ghanaians.

She said: I would like to use this opportunity to apologize to everyone, my party the New Patriotic Party (NPP), most especially President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Chief of Staff Frema Osei Opare, Majority Leader of Parliament Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu and my colleague Members of Parliament for my past misconduct. I would like to say it wasnt deliberate. I didnt deliberately plan to disrespect you just that a lot was happening in my life at that moment."

She continued: "Once again, let me use this opportunity to apologize to NPPs Greater Accra Regional executives, my constituency chairman and executives and constituents. Please forgive me because to err is human and to forgive is divine. We dont pay evil with evil.
I was looking for a full presentation of the proceedings at the launching of the autobiography of Professor Kwesi Yankah on YouTube when I came across the same authors speech at the launching of his earlier book, The Missing Pages of June 4.

Now, one of my regrets in life is to have been obliged to spend over 30 years outside this country. Its true that not all the 30 years were wasted, because I did gain more knowledge about the world outside Ghana. And that, quite often, enables one to sift the information one has deposited in ones memory bank about ones own country much better.

But the huge chunks of empty space that my brain retrieves when certain words enter my hippocampus, can be embarrassing to someone who presumes to inform others about events in his own country.

I mean, take this: when my daughter-in-law generously brought me a copy of The Woes Of A Kwatriot in London, I had NOT heard of Kwesi Yankah. I knew Yankahs  Kojo (ex-Regional Minister, Asante) and Eric (ex-VRA.) But not Kwesi. And yet, as the owner of such literary mystery names as Sisiriamako and Kookooase Adowa, Obonsam Fireman and I ought to have been brother palm wine drinkards. Alas: you cant have everything in life.

The reason why I was trying to find the video presentation of the launching of Kwesi Yankahs autobiography, The Pen At Risk, is that although the little bit that has come

into the media of what he said at the event has been a bit mangled (for instance, the world collection of malapropisms will be enriched by the fact that he was reported to have said twice that galamsey could not be defeated only by moral switching [obviously, the writer meant moral suasion!] what he did say was of great consequence.

What I managed to gather from the mangled media reports is that he suggested that our leaders should not only be thinking about waging military campaigns in other countries but also about fighting the internal war being waged against Ghana by those who were destroying Ghanas forest reserves and rivers through galamsey.

The galamseyers were using weapons, but did we know in what quantities? Did we know how far they would take their warfare against Ghana? (Prof Kwei Yankah asked).

As far as I know, the Prof is the only major figure in Ghana who has fully acknowledged IN PUBLIC, the full nature of the galamsey calamity. One other person told me privately that the struggle to eliminate galamsey would be more difficult and more costly than Ghanas anti-colonial campaign that won us our independence, because it is a fight by us against ourselves!

How many of our Professors and other learned academics would make public statements like that about galamsey, without worrying whether anyone would be annoyed by it or not?

Our notables accept and bask in the respect our society generously bestows on achievers in our midst. But what do these achievers do for our society, in return?

Since around 1989, politicians with a populist axe to grind have launched programmes meant to enable artisanal or small-scale gold miners to obtain concessions on which to dig for gold.

To rationalise what they have been doing, the politicians employ highly emotive verbiage and slogans, such as: We live on gold and yet have no food to eat, or We allow foreign mining firms to dig our gold and carry it to Eueope and America to sell and become very rich. And they leave us with nothing  except a ruined environment and poverty! Who can resist cheering up those who make such statements? More important, who can refuse to vote for them at elections?

But behind the populism, is always a calculated commercial effort: through bribery, or favouritism, licences to PROSPECT for gold are turned into licences to MINE. Concessions granted for operations outside forest reserves, are unilaterally extended to encompass areas clearly delineated as forest reserves.

Who is to ENFORCE the laws and regulations governing the operations of artisanal miners? The very people in the Government departments and commissions who knew that it would be easy to cause confusion in everyones mind by making it possible for a prospecting licence to be used as a mining licence! Until the mining poklice (if any!) arrive! By which time,mwhat needs to be donewould have been done!

So, now, all the big rivers that give us drinking water  Ankobrah, Tano, Birem, Densu, Offin, Tanoh etc  have become polluted. Cocoa farms and food farms are being turned into galamsey sites.

But our chiefs and company chief executives; our academics and our educated professionals; see nothing and hear nothing about the existential threat that we have hung around our own necks like a sword of Damocles.

In my quest for relevant videos for this article on YouTube, I came across a ceremony at which a newly-promoted Professor of the University of Ghana, was to give his inaugural address in the Great Hall at Legon.

In the display area in front adjacent to the Great Hall, a very proficient ensemble from the dondology (!) department, were playing a heart-warming bit of traditional music, and a very good dancer was doing it justice.

Then, someone pushed a lad of about three years of age forward, and encouraged him to watch what the old man was doing, and imitate his movements. Reluctant at first, he soon got the beat and began to dance quite well.

Then, the tears welled up in my eyes. I asked myself: Will this boy survive to dance to a Ghanaian traditional number  full of joy and beauty, like hes now doing, as a mature man, if Ghanaians allow their rivers and forests to continue to be wantonly destroyed by the galamsey lot, as they are doing now?

I next had to run into the bathroom to dry my eyes. Woe unto a nation whose elites are too apathetic to save it from self-destruction.
14.09.2023 LISTEN

Globally, an estimated 2.78 million workers die from occupational accidents and work-related diseases, while an additional 374 million workers suffer from non-fatal occupational accidents. This is according to the United Nations Global Compact, the world's largest corporate sustainability initiative. The statistics equate to 7 500 people dying from unsafe and unhealthy work conditions every single day. In terms of high-risk sectors, the construction industry has been identified by the International Labour Organization as having a disproportionately high rate of recorded accidents.

Closer to home, it is difficult to get an accurate picture of all workplace accidents that occur nationally across the various sectors. This is due to South Africa having a large informal workforce, meaning that a vast number of accidents are not reported. Much of the data collected is obtained via insurance claims by employers through workmens compensation service providers, providing a snapshot of the countrys dire situation.

The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (FEM), a mutual insurer offering workmens compensation services for the construction industry in South Africa, recorded 6 157 reported accidents for 2022 alone (as per data extracted as of June 2023). Of these reported incidents, 48 resulted in fatalities and 581 resulted in permanent disability for the victim. Based on claims received for the year, the leading cause of workplace accidents were struck by incidents  i.e., accidents where the victim was struck by a motor vehicle while working, struck by falling items (such as a brick on a construction site); and so forth. In fact, struck by accidents comprised a massive 32.3% of the workplace incidents reported to FEM in 2022.

More concerning is that these statistics only account for around 50% of the formal construction workforce in South Africa that FEM insures (with the Compensation Fund as the insurer for the rest of the formal construction workforce). It does not account for accidents in the informal construction sector at all. The question remains, are we doing enough to bring down these excessively high accident rates?

From a legal standpoint, South African legislation includes several acts relating to Occupational Health & Safety (OHS), including the recently amended Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA). While some of these acts are industry specific, they all have one goal in common  ensuring the health and safety of workers through the prevention of occupational injuries and diseases. However, succeeding in reducing - and ideally preventing - workplace accidents is dependent on compliance with legislation by both employers and employees.

Employers need to have the correct health and safety processes in place, and ensure that staff are trained and continually upskilled to uphold strict safety standards. While time and expertise may not always be readily available, there are numerous resources that employers can tap into to keep employees informed and upskilled. There are several professional bodies and associations offering training, seminars and workshops aimed at promoting occupational health and safety that employers can register their staff with.

Employees themselves need to be fully committed to their own health and safety, as well as that of their colleagues. This means taking all necessary precautions, following due process and safety protocols; and being fully aware and focused at work  particularly when it comes to high-risk tasks. And, importantly, all parties concerned must enforce both legislation and best practice when it comes to occupational health and safety  this includes safety officers, management, project leads and employees themselves.

Even where legislation falls short, it is up to management and staff to bridge the gap to ensure organisational health and safety. Commenting on the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Amendment Bill 2020, Advocate Raynard Looch (appointed by SAIOSH to review the Bill) emphasized: Managers and supervisors are an integral and essential part of an employers health and safety management system, and deserve statutory recognition, (Engineering News). At the end of the day, regardless of legal frameworks, it is employees themselves who suffer the consequences of non-compliance or negligence when it comes to health and safety, and therefore, need to take responsibility within their own departments and workplace surroundings.

Vital to shifting mindsets and positive behaviour when it comes to health and safety are education and awareness campaigns. These include training sessions, roadshows with practical on-site activations, wide-reaching targeted marketing campaigns and industry events. Notably, FEMs upcoming Safetember campaign uses the month of September to raise awareness around occupational health and safety. The campaign includes a Safetember Conference taking place on the 20th of September 2023 in Johannesburg, hosted by FEM, with talks by industry experts, academics, private sector professionals and public sector leaders. Robust discourse around key safety matters is expected during the panel and thinktank discussions. The theme of the conference is the struck by accident category, with various industry players weighing in on solutions to reduce workplace accidents across all categories. The Cape Town leg of the Safetember conference will take place on the 22nd of September 2023, with the Durban event following closely after on the 29th of September 2023.

An inaugural FEM health and safety publication will also be launched at the conference. The annual publication will provide valuable workplace health and safety insights (with a key focus on the construction industry), and deliver relevant information based on input from industry professionals, safety experts and employees.

While the goal of zero workplace accidents may seem aspirational, it is certainly the goal we should be striving for daily. The reality is that the majority of incidents are, in fact, preventable  it just takes us all working together towards a common objective to see such an outcome achieved.

By Dr Sanjay Munnoo
In a move to boost voter registration in the Volta region, Leslie Mensah Tamakloe, a leading member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and founder of InternetGhana Company Limited, has donated GH205,000 to the regional branch of the party.

The funds aim to assist in the transportation of newly eligible voters to the Electoral Commission district offices for the ongoing limited voter registration exercise since the cost of transportation may be unbearable for most of them.

The limited voter registration exercise, which commenced on Tuesday, September 12, is targeted at registering Ghanaian citizens who have just attained the voting age or those who couldn't register in the previous exercise. The exercise is expected to end on October 2.

In a letter addressed to the regional chairman of the NDC, Mr. Leslie Mensah Tamakloe explained the necessity of the financial support and how it would be distributed.

"In respect of our quest as a democratic party to wrestle power from the NPP, it becomes essential to fully ensure that all primary electoral activities are monitored successfully, he wrote.

He added, "With the commencement of the limited voter registration and its inconvenience of having the EC district offices as central points, it is required of us to ensure a sufficient input of financial resources to facilitate the mobilization of our people to be registered."

Detailing the allocation of the amount, the letter states, "Each constituency benefits GH10,000 with the exception of the Hohoe constituency which benefits GH15,000 due to its orphan state. The regional executive committee receives GH20,000 to enable it monitor the registration process across the region."

Mr. Leslie Mensah Tamakloe expressed his belief that this financial boost would greatly support the party's efforts.

"I believe this will go a long way to help the party meet its target of registrants in the region. It is my pleasure," he concluded.
In order to have access to innovative and trending machinery in the energy sector, and interact with manufacturers, Accra is set to host the largest exhibition of power, electrical, and energy products and technology opportunities.

The expo organized by BIG4SURE Events FZCO under the auspices of the Ministry of Energy Ghana, with the support of the Ministry of Trade and Industry Ghana, is slated from 11-13 October 2023 at the Accra International Conference Center.

The Deputy Director of Energy Ing. Sulemana Abubakari at the Ministry indicated that the energy sector is one of the most significant sectors supporting the growth and sustainability of the Ghanaian economy and industries and also contributing significantly towards the income of the country by way of electricity exports.

He added that the expo will provide the platform to engage the stakeholders within the energy sector, hence the need for Ghanaians within the sector to attend the expo.

Thomas James, Executive Director for Power and Energy Exhibition underscored that the fair will bring together manufacturers, exporters, wholesalers, dealers, and distributors of power electrical energy equipment, gadgets, and products, including transformers, wires, solar panels, batteries, inverters, generators, to everything in the electrical industry.

The event is expected to host close to 100 exhibitors in the expo from India, China, Turkey, Nigeria, UAE, France, the UK, Ghana, and other countries, and 4000+ visitors from Ghana and West Africa.

The president of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) Dr Joseph Obeng mentioned that the exhibition is a good initiative for traders in all aspects of energy, especially in this era of AfCFTA.

According to him, traditional power sources are providing ways to new advancement, especially with the wind industry, and solar industry. "We traders have every opportunity to know what the modern trends are so that we can also divert and serve the nation on the right note," the GUTA president explained.

He added, "It is important that we all patronage the upcoming fair to make it a source so that we can also better our businesses. Again would help the nation to achieve its power potential.

"Recently, the government has been talking about import substitution m. We are thinking that very soon most of the products that are imported are going to be substituted by local production, which means we have to start taking advantage of fairs to meet up with the manufacturers where we can partner with them to achieve this goal.

"It is very important this is how the directions should be to talk through where we can migrate from trading to manufacturers."

The Deputy Director of Energy, Ing. Sulemana Abubakari at the Ministry indicated that the expo will offer the platform to engage the stakeholders within the energy sector.

He entreats Ghanaians within the sector to attend the expo.

The President of Ghana Electrical Contractors Association, Awal Sakib Mohammed noted, "From the first edition we realized that it is a fair that could help us because access to information in the energy sector is not easy to come by unless we travel abroad for a conference before we can have access to trending technology in the sector. We are in the new era of technology and we must adapt to buying and using energy-efficient equipment to save money and power."

The exhibition is expected to address the power and energy supply demand and issues in the country so that the robust power sector in the country can be built and developed. This goes hand in hand with the vision of the Government of Ghana to have a strong industrial support infrastructure for export and job creation.
14.09.2023 LISTEN

Ghanaian broadcaster Kofi Otchere Darko, known well as KOD, has expressed disappointment in the performance of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) led by President Akufo-Addo.

He averred that he would no longer vote for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming general elections.

In an interview with Accra-based JoyPrime on Wednesday, September 13, KOD said he campaigned for the NPP in 2016 with the expectation that Ghana would see significant development under the party's leadership.

"It [Akufo-Addos administration] could have been better. This is supposed to be our best time in Ghana and it is one of the reasons why I supported his campaign in 2020. I dont think he has done well, he said.

He further stated, In the next election, I won't vote for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) but would rather do so for the National Democratic Congress (NDC)."

Together with some other celebrities, the journalist campaigned for then NPP flagbearer Nana Akufo-Addos presidential bid in 2016, hoping the party's leadership would help resolve Ghanas economic challenges.
Kennedy Agyapong, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central and a contender for the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) flagbearer position, has urged party delegates to vote for him.

Addressing reporters after the September 13, 2023 balloting for the November 4 vote, Mr Agyapong expressed his belief that delegates would choose him as the NPP flagbearer due to his unwavering commitment to their course.

"My expectation is to win because I am a grassroots man; I have been fighting for the ordinary people ever since. So, I know for sure that no matter the amount of money they are going to offer or the intimidation they may employ, the delegates will use their conscience to vote for the candidate who genuinely understands their plight," he stated.

He emphasized that the delegates were not solely concerned with the present but were also considering the future of the party and the nation as a whole.

He expressed confidence in their ability to make the right choice.

"They don't think of today, but they think of tomorrow. So, I have confidence in the delegates that no matter the amount they are given, they have the wisdom to choose the best candidate.

"The man who actually understands the plights of the polling station executives and the ordinary people in this country. So, I have confidence that come November 4th, despite any intimidations or whatever, the delegates are going to speak."

The Presidential Elections Committee recently conducted an interactive session with the four contenders vying for the NPP presidential primaries, scheduled for Saturday, November 4, 2023.

During this session, the modalities and procedures governing the upcoming election were discussed and agreed upon.

Under the supervision of officials from the Electoral Commission of Ghana, the Elections Committee conducted a balloting process to determine the order in which the contestants will appear on the ballot.

The order of appearance on the ballot is as follows:

1. Ken Ohene Agyapong

2. Mahamudu Bawumia

3. Owusu Afriyie Akoto

4. Francis Addai-Nimoh
The term "apology" is currently trending on Twitter in relation to comments made by former Gender Minister Sarah Adwoa Safo in a recent video.

In the video, Adwoa Safo explained her long absence from parliamentary duties last year.

She had vacated her ministerial role in December 2021 to care for her sick son in the United States.

Efforts to have her return to work were unsuccessful.

However, in the new video, the Dome Kwabenya MP apologized to various stakeholders for her past misconduct.

She said: "I would like to use this opportunity to apologize to everyone, my party the New Patriotic Party (NPP), most especially President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Chief of Staff Frema Osei Opare, Majority Leader of Parliament Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu and my colleague Members of Parliament for my past misconduct. I would like to say it wasnt deliberate. I didnt deliberately plan to disrespect you just that a lot was happening in my life at that moment."

She continued: "Once again, let me use this opportunity to apologize to NPPs Greater Accra Regional executives, my constituency chairman and executives and constituents. Please forgive me because to err is human and to forgive is divine. We dont pay evil with evil.
Prof. John Gatsi

14.09.2023 LISTEN

Dean of the Cape Coast University Business School, Professor John Gatsi has shared his view on the decision by government to reopen the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).

According to him, the countrys problems are so dire to the extent that even if there is full participation in the programme, Ghana's woes won't end.

Speaking in an interview with Starr FM, Prof. John Gatsi said the concern about the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme is whether government has been truthful to the Ghanaian people on the fiscal situation of the country.

It is not about how the DDEP was carried out, it is about whether the government has told us the complete fact, full fact on the fiscal situation of the country.

If you have a 100 percent successful exchange program it will still not resolve the problem of the country. Because we have sunk so deep that a 100 percent debt exchange program wouldnt work, Prof. John Gatsi argued.

According to the Ministry of Finance, the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme is being reopened to grant the opportunity to bondholders who were unable to participate in the previous programme.

Already, the Individual Bondholders have served notice that they want nothing to do with the programme.
Bob and Peg Hamels of North Collins first heard about a proposed wind farm in southern Erie County about two months ago, when Peg was approached about signing a lease with a company owned by the French government.

Have you talked to the Town Board yet? she asked the company representative. You need to talk to the Town Board first before we even talk to you, because we dont know anything about it.

A week later, a neighbor gave them a lawn sign opposing the project, and now they are part of a growing opposition, posting a large banner in front of their 39-acre property on Sisson Highway (Route 75) overlooking the Boston Hills.

The Hamels and others in North Collins, Collins, Concord and Eden have mobilized to get the word out before any more property owners sign leases with the company, EDF Renewables.

Many residents see the wind farm as an existential threat to their way of life.

We all moved to the country to be in the country, North Collins Supervisor John Tobia said. This is rural farm country and the citizens like it this way.

EDF wants to erect 30 to 40 wind turbines that are 655 feet high, which include a 390-foot tower with blades that stretch 265 feet from the hub.

The massive turbines would be the tallest structures in Western New York, higher than Seneca One Tower, which is 529 feet tall. The turbines at Steel Winds on the former Bethlehem Steel site are about 400 feet tall.

Project benefits

Collins Wind would generate 200 MW of power, enough to power 85,000 homes, according to the company. The electricity generated will be injected into transmission lines along the Thruway in Brant.

The vast majority of the energy is projected to be consumed locally in Erie, Chautauqua and Niagara counties, including in Buffalo, while some will be transmitted further away, Kevin Campbell, EDF director of development, said in an email.

Payments to property owners who sign leases start with $3,500 a year after they sign the agreement, residents were told by the company at a North Collins Town Board meeting earlier this year.

During construction, the payments climb to $10,000 for properties with turbines, and $5,000 a year for properties with roads or collector lines but no wind turbines.

When the wind farm is in operation, property owners with turbines would be paid $20,000 a year, increasing by 2% each year, or 2% of gross revenues, whichever is greater.

And even those who do not have turbines on their property but who sign lease agreements would split 2% of the gross revenues, proportional to the amount of acres in their lease.

In addition to annual payments to property owners who sign leases, the company said more than $2 million per year would be paid to Erie County, the four towns and host school districts through a payment in lieu of taxes agreement that has yet to be negotiated.

Opposition mounts

At least a half dozen property owners have signed leases, which are for 49 years.

Opponents hope that if they can persuade enough land owners not to sign leases, there will not be enough locations for a viable project.

They dont think people are educated. They expect everyone just to sign a contract because farming is tough these days, said Ann Moritz, one of the organizers of the opposition who also is a member of the North Collins Zoning Board.

A North Collins Town Board meeting in June on the wind farm attracted about 100 people. A meeting in August had to be moved to Epiphany of Our Lord Catholic Church in Langford, to accommodate the more than 300 who showed up.

I just dont think people are being educated enough to understand what the ramifications are, what theyre up against, Bob Hamels said.

Once they heard of the proposal, residents quickly organized Concerned Citizens of the Collins Wind Project. A Facebook page started in mid-May gained more than 900 members by the first week in September. More than 675 lawn signs have been distributed, and the group started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money.

They are concerned about environmental and health effects. Most residents in the project area have well water, and are concerned construction of the foundations for the turbines may disturb, disrupt or contaminate the aquifer that supplies those wells.

They are also worried about sleep disturbance, headaches, nausea and other symptoms reported by people who live near wind turbines. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority maintains there is no scientific or medical evidence that wind turbines cause those symptoms.

Lease latitude

The leases give EDF the right to emit or cause the emission of noise, vibration, air turbulence, wake, and electromagnetic and frequency interference and to permit wind turbulence, to overhang, cast shadows, or cause flicker onto the property and/or to impact lessors view of and from the property.

Noise, vibration, air turbulence and shadow flicker are mitigated through setbacks and operational measures, as determined by the permitting process, Campbell said in an email.

Under the leases, the company can access the property 24 hours a day, and select the location of turbines and other facilities.

Those who sign the lease may need the companys approval to change existing structures or build new ones. If grazing animals damage wind equipment, EDF could require them to be removed from the property.

There also is a confidentiality clause, prohibiting the property owner from discussing terms and conditions of the lease, or responding to inquiries from the news media without first obtaining written permission, even after the lease expires.

Campbell said the clause is standard for land agreements in the industry.

We work with contractors and vendors whose methods may be proprietary and not to be shared publicly. Terms of and conditions of our agreements are to remain confidential due to the competitive nature of our business, to protect intellectual property and maintain a strong competitive industry, he said in an email.

EDF Renewables owns and operates the 80 MW Copenhagen Wind project in Jefferson and Lewis counties, and has developed 72 wind projects across North America.

EDF Renewables is committed to developing a responsibly sited wind project that will create more than 80 construction jobs for up to two years, provide significant new income for landowners to support their farming business, families and livelihoods, and contribute significant new investments to the community, including providing more than $2 million dollars in new revenues for host towns, county and school districts annually, according to Campbell.

The company hopes to start construction in 2027.

North Collins has regulations regarding solar and wind projects, and enacted a three-year moratorium last month. Collins is researching regulations and a possible moratorium, Supervisor Kenneth Martin said.

Edens code covers wind farms. The Town Board scheduled a public hearing Wednesday on a six-month moratorium on wind energy conversion projects. Concord has no ordinance or local law governing wind farms, and the Town Board will hold a public hearing Oct. 5 on a three-year moratorium.

State siting clout

But some believe local laws and moratoriums wont keep the turbines away.

They can ignore our laws, Martin said. Even if we put a moratorium on, theyre going to continue to sign people up.

A state law passed three years ago established the Office of Renewable Energy Siting, which rules on renewable energy applications  keeping in mind the target established in the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) that 70% of the states electricity must come from renewable sources by 2030.

Under the law, companies must consult with local municipalities and there is a public comment period. The siting board must consider local laws when making its determination, but it can override local regulations if it finds they are unreasonably burdensome in view of the CLCPA targets and the environmental benefits of the proposed major renewable energy facility.

Residents say the small communities are close, but they fear the friendly atmosphere could be shattered as residents learn who has signed leases.

Its going to create division, Tobia said, amongst the citizens of the town.
The Electoral Commission (EC) in the Lambussie district of the Upper West Region, could not register people on the first day of the exercise due to malfunctioning of the registration machines.

Mr Maxwell Vanscoffy, the Lambussie District Officer of the Commission, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) on Thursday that the Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) kits that were brought for the purpose on Tuesday were all faulty.

He said the kits were returned to Wa to be replaced, which compelled them to start the exercise on Wednesday, September 13.

The GNA on a visit to some of the districts in the Upper West Region to monitor the limited voter registration exercise by the Electoral Commission said as at 1400 hours GMT, the EC office in Lambussie had successfully registered 64 people and issued them with ID cards, while many other awaited their turn in a queue.

Mr Vanscoffy said only 34 people were registered on Wednesday when the exercise started and expressed hope that as many as possible would be registered.

As to whether the exercise would be extended an extra one day since they couldn't start at the stipulated date, Mr Vanscoffy said his superiors had to take that decision.

He said apart from the first day when the exercise couldn't come on, no problems had been encountered.

Over 50 people were in the queue to register as at the time GNA visited the centre, and some of them expressed disappointment about the EC's inability to start the exercise on the first day.

GNA
The Ministry of Trade and Industry has suspended the construction of new factories for the manufacturing and bagging of portland cement in Ghana, effective September 13.

No permit shall be granted or issued for the construction of new factories for the manufacturer and bagging of cement, Mr Kobina T. Hammond, Minister of Trade and Industry, said in a directive.

The Minister said, All processes leading to the granting of such permits are hereby suspended until further notice.

All regulatory institutions, he added, are to take note for immediate release and compliance.

Meanwhile, Dr George Dawson-Ahmoah, the Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG), in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, applauded the directive by the Ministry and said the move was part of commitment to ensuring the sustainable and responsible growth of Ghanas cement industry.

He said the Ministry of Trade and Industry, in collaboration with Ghana Standards Authority, Chamber of Cement Manufacturers' Association, Ghana (COCMAG) and other stakeholders, was currently developing new regulations aimed at improving the industrys environmental, safety, technological, quality standards, and general unfair trade practices.

Dr Dawson-Ahmoah noted that by developing these strategies and fostering a culture of responsible and sustainable growth, Ghanas cement industry could contribute to the countrys development while minimizing its environmental and social impact.

The directive, therefore, comes as an interim measure toward attaining sanity in terms of adherence to regulations within the industry. This is highly applauded by the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers' Association, though it is long overdue, he said.

GNA
The relevance of positioning on the ballot for elections in Ghana has come up for discussion as the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong has again picked the first position on the ballot for the NPP flagbearer contest on November 4.

This was the outcome of the New Patriotic Party's balloting for the presidential aspirants held at the Party's headquarters in Accra on September 13, 2023.

During the balloting for the Super Delegates Conference which took place on August 26, 2023, Mr Agyapong picked the same number one slot.

Speaking to Alfred Ocansey on TV3's Ghana Tonight show, the spokesperson for Kennedy Agyapong, Mr. Kwame Owusu noted that like other Ghanaians, they believe in the luck that comes with being number one.

People believe in omen in our part of the world and is going to boost and give confidence to those grassroot people working for honorable and if nothing at all, it is positive.''

This notwithstanding, he urged their supporters not to relent in the quest to win the November 4 poll.

I will only caution that our people do not relent and just go out and jubilate and say, because we have picked one, we are going to be winners. I believe in hard work and all should go right now and start door to door and make sure that the dreams and the good things that honorable has for the country is achieved,'' he said.

Meanwhile on the same program, a member of Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia's campaign team, Mr. Dennis Miracles Aboagye said the number two position does not mean much to them.

We've never really been so much fixated on our position on the ballot and I think we made that point quiet clear during the super delegates and that continues to be our position, he explained.

According to him, their preoccupation is to win the election on November 4, 2023.

For us, our focus is to reach out to party executives. In this case, the polling station executives, the electoral area coordinators and then the regional and national executives who have vote, so that we could sell Dr. Muhamadu Bawumia's message to them and get them to vote for us on the D-day,'' Mr. Aboagye stressed.

He further asserted that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is already known by all the delegates.

Dr. Muhamadu Bawumia is one person everyone can recognize in the country, children, adults, old women, old men, young adults can find him. No matter where he finds himself on the ballot paper. And what is crucial is that we capture the minds and hearts of the voters and once we are able to capture their minds and the heart of the voter, they will find you on the ballot paper and vote for you,'' the spokesperson stated.

-3news.com
Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, a flagbearer aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has expressed his confidence in winning the party's presidential primary, scheduled in November.

Dr. Akoto, who currently serves as an NPP flagbearer aspirant, emphasized that he holds a unique vision and a more compelling message compared to his opponents.

Addressing the media at his campaign office on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, Dr. Afriyie Akoto says he is Ghana's hope for a better future.

He calls on party delegates to disregard any intimidation or undue influence by other aspirants and unite behind his candidacy.

"I am more energized than ever before to carry the NPP flag and secure victory for our party. If you evaluate all the candidates vying for the NPP flagbearer position, who presents a more compelling message than mine?

My vision for the NPP and for Ghana inspires hope, and that's why hundreds of thousands of Ghanaians are urging me to persevere and secure victory for them. I cannot let them down," Dr. Akoto declared.

He further asserted, "I am the hope of Ghana. I have already outlined the broader contours of my vision. As the campaign unfolds, numerous Ghanaians have pledged their support to me, and I am unwavering in my commitment."

Dr. Akoto emphasized the importance of a fair and level playing field for all competing candidates in the NPP presidential primary.

He expressed concerns about perceptions of favoritism within the party's leadership and called for an environment free from intimidation, allowing NPP delegates to make informed decisions regarding the party's leadership.

"We began with five candidates heading into the November 4 polls, but one has withdrawn. There is a perception that the party machinery may be tilted in favor of a particular candidate.

The party leadership must ensure a transparent environment free from intimidation, enabling delegates of our esteemed NPP to determine who should lead the party in the 2024 elections. With this fairness, it will be easier for us to come together and support the candidate who emerges victorious in the primary," he stated.
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Bolga Central, Isaac Adongo has lambasted the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta for defending Bank of Ghana (BoG) Governor Dr. Ernest Addison.

The Finance Minister in an Article titled; Standing Strong With The Bank of Ghana has jumped to the defense of the Central Bank Governor on the building of a new head office in the midst of the countrys economic crisis.

In his Article, Ken Ofori-Atta also defended Dr. Addison on the GHS60 billion losses incurred by the Central Bank.

He said the BoG Governor should not be punished by Ghanaians for helping government to look out for the greater good of the public.

In fact, as some critics of the Central Bank in our country do observe, the primary objective of a central bank is not to make a profit but to be managed as a financially sustainable institution.

The call for us, as citizens, is not to be seen as punishing the Bank of Ghana for pitching up to support the greater public good, Ken Ofori-Atta said in his Article.

He also said BoG just like all Central Banks accross the world do not exist to make profit.

Speaking to Citi News on the Article, Isaac Adongo said he is surprised and disappointed in the Finance Minister for mounting such a defense for the BoG Governor.

He said the arguments made by the Finance Minister are unfounded, adding that it appears Ken Ofori-Atta learned nothing when he went to Yale University in the US.

Im surprised at these so-called Yale Students who basically appear to learn nothing in school.So across the globe Central Banks are set up to dissipate public funds? Is that how they do? If there are laws governing Central Banks they should ignore the laws and operate as they want and dissipate public funds. How can you talk about sustainability when an institution has just lost GHS70 billion of the reserve money of Ghana?

Im disappointed in Ken Ofori-Atta. This level of reasoning is the reason we are where we are, Isaac Adongo said.

The Ranking Member on the Finance Committee of Parliament further argued that if this is what people go to Yale University to study then he would prefer to attend Tamale Secondary School in his next life.

If this is what they learn in Yale and Harvard, and I believe they learn better things than that then in my next life, I will still go to Tamale Secondary School, the Bolga Central MP shared.
Ghana has not yet seen the type of closed, united, committed, focused, and dedicated leadership that is ready to sacrifice for future generations of Ghanaians, world-renowned heart surgeon Prof KwabenaFrimpong-Boateng has observed in a latest article titled: 'An open letter to anybody who wants to be Ghanas president in January 2025'.

In the article, the former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, argued: "We have not had leaders who see beyond the next elections and plan for future generations".

"If a few leaders of this country, relying on the protection of divine providence, would mutually pledge their lives, fortunes, and sacred honour for the development of Ghana, there would be a palpable change within 2 years", Prof Frimpong-Boateng asserted.

He said: "Maybe, there is no sacred honour or fortune to pledge on".

According to tue former appointee of President Nana Akufo-Addo, "the political corruption that is gradually gaining root in Ghana is very disturbing", adding: "When it comes to choosing leaders to run the political parties and the nation, it is no more a question of looking for selfless and competent individuals who have what it takes to move the nation forward".

"It is more of who is loyal to powerful individuals who want their interests to be served after the power is won", he noted.

"I expect anyone who wants to lead this country to tell the nation now how things are going to be done differently so that young people would begin to have hope and a stake in this country", Prof Frimpong-Boateng demanded.

In his view, "our leaders have devalued themselves to the extent that they think only foreigners can help us out of our misery". "How can someone tell us that he is waiting for a loan from some other country before roads, schools and other infrastructural projects can be executed?" he wondered.

"Our leaders seem to know it all and can develop this country without Ghanaians. After all, they do not need Ghanaians to travel around looking for loans, grants, and handouts. They do not need Ghanaians to build the infrastructural projects. As it is, those who give out the loans also provide highly qualified and skilful workers from their country to get the work done".

Read Prof Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng's full article below:

Ghana has not done as well as it should have done since President Kwame Nkrumah was unconstitutionally ousted from office through a military coup by the National Liberation Council on February 24, 1966. Ghana has had three other interruptions of governments. The present 4th Republic, dominated by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has not brought the transformational change that will put the country on a path of sustainable development and prosperity for its people.

I dare say that the fight ahead of Ghana is greater than the fight for political independence and it cannot be won with leaders who lack the zeal, commitment, and conviction to confront their own demons and other forces and headwinds that are against the development of the country.

It is always said that one cannot reinvent the wheel and I believe in that old adage. I present here examples of what happened elsewhere on this planet not too long ago. I personally believe that the country can make progress when we get leaders who exhibit the qualities in the examples that follow.

The first example of transformational leadership is from Singapore. When the government of Lee Kuan Yew took office in 1959 it set out to have a clean administration. The Prime Minister said that we were sickened by the greed, corruption, and decadence of many Asian leaders and We had the deep sense of mission to establish a clean and effective government. This was a solid commitment from the newly elected Prime Minister. With determination and a credible program committed to scientific and technological development, Lee Kuan Yew and his team were able to live up to their good intentions and Singapore, which in 1819 was a village with 120 fishermen without natural resources and hinterland, propelled itself from third world squalor to first world affluence in just 35 years. This was commitment and a sense of mission personified.

The second example is from China. The economic development taking place in China is the result of an initiative taken by four scientists. On the 3rd of March 1986, four of Chinas top weapons scientists: WANG Daheng, WANG Ganchang, YANG Jiachi, and CHEN Fangyun, jointly sent a private letter to Deng Xiaoping, the leader of the country, with a warning that decades of relentless focus on militarization had crippled the countrys civilian scientific establishment. They recommended that China must join the worlds new technological revolution, or it would be left behind.

They called for an elite project devoted to technology ranging from biotech to space research. Mr. Deng Xiaoping agreed, and scribbled on the letter, Action must be taken on this now. This was Chinas Sputnik moment, and the project was code-named the 863 Program, for the year and month of its birth. In the years that followed, the government pumped billions of dollars into labs and universities and enterprises, on projects ranging from cloning to underwater robots. The program initially focused on seven key technological fields: Biotechnology, Space technology, Information technology, Laser technology, Automation, Energy, and Advanced Material Sciences.

Two more fields were brought under the umbrella of the program: Telecommunications (1992) and Marine Technology (1996).

In 2006, Chinese leaders redoubled their commitment to new energy technology; they boosted funding for research and set targets for installing wind turbines, solar panels, hydroelectric dams, and other renewable sources of energy that were higher than goals in the United States. China doubled its wind power capacity that year and then doubled it again the next year, and the year after. The country had virtually no solar industry in 2003; five years later, it was manufacturing more solar cells than any other country, winning customers from foreign companies that had invented the technology in the first place.

Korea transformed itself from a stagnant agrarian society into one of the most dynamic industrial economies of the world within 40 years. In the early 1960s when Korea first launched its industrialization efforts, it was a typical poor developing country with poor resources and production base and small domestic market. Koreas Gross National Product (GNP) in 1961 was only $2.3 billion (in 1980 prices) or $87 per capita which came mainly from the primary sectors. The manufacturing sectors share of GNP remained at a mere 15%. International trade was also at a very infant stage: in 1961, Koreas export volume was only $55 million and imports were $390 million. As late as 1970, the three top exports were textiles, plywood, and wigs. South Korea now has established world prominence in such technology areas as semiconductors, Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), telecommunication equipment, automobiles, shipbuilding, and many more. Indeed, it has emerged as one of the key international players in the global economy and is considered the 13th largest economy and one of the major trading countries of the world.

The last example is from the United States of America. When the 56 signatories of the Declaration of American Independence met in the State House of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia on the 4th of July 1776 to append their signatures to the famous document Declaration of Americas Independence this is what they said: And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.

The signers of the American Declaration of Independence, twenty-three lawyers, fifteen merchants, five plantation owners, four physicians, three scientists, two land speculators, one farmer, one military man, one lawyer/musician and one Minister, showed tremendous courage and bravery by willingly putting their names on that document. They knew full well that they were committing treason against England and they knew the penalty was death. Their commitment to the United States of America led to the creation of what is still the richest and most powerful country in the world.

Ghana has not yet seen the type of closed, united, committed, focused, and dedicated leadership that is ready to sacrifice for future generations of Ghanaians. We have not had leaders who see beyond the next elections and plan for future generations. If a few leaders of this country, relying on the protection of divine providence, would mutually pledge their lives, fortunes, and sacred honour for the development of Ghana, there would be a palpable change within 2 years. Maybe there is no sacred honour or fortune to pledge on.

The political corruption that is gradually gaining root in Ghana is very disturbing. When it comes to choosing leaders to run the political parties and the nation it is no more a question of looking for selfless and competent individuals who have what it takes to move the nation forward. It is more of who is loyal to powerful individuals who want their interests to be served after the power is won.

I expect anyone who wants to lead this country to tell the nation now how things are going to be done differently so that young people would begin to have hope and a stake in this country.

Our leaders have devalued themselves to the extent that they think only foreigners can help us out of our misery. How can someone tell us that he is waiting for a loan from some other country before roads, schools and other infrastructural projects can be executed?

Our leaders seem to know it all and can develop this country without Ghanaians. After all, they do not need Ghanaians to travel around looking for loans, grants, and handouts. They do not need Ghanaians to build the infrastructural projects. As it is, those who give out the loans also provide highly qualified and skilful workers from their country to get the work done.

Our leaders understanding of development seems to be only the provision of infrastructure. No country ever developed by borrowing to build infrastructure. Something else must be built on the infrastructure. That something is the true development.

As far as I am concerned the many roads, interchanges, schools, hospitals, wells, electricity, and other infrastructural projects, erroneously called development projects, do not alone determine the success of a Government. Rather the success of true leadership is measured by what extent the people can be mobilized to lead independent lives: to feed, shelter, clothe, heal, and defend themselves, and also produce tools, implements, spare parts and machines they require for daily living, so that if for one reason or the other ships and airplanes are unable to access the country the citizens can stand on their own and survive.

We need attitudinal change. We should realize that the overall development of the nation, including the economic, social, cultural, and technological development is the responsibility of the Ghanaian. Mr. Future President, the men, and women to solve the myriads of problems facing us are here at home and in the diaspora. They have to be found and encouraged to perform. The task of political leadership is to unearth the actors needed to transform the nation. If we say we have the men, let us use the men and not the boys.

We should exorcise the beggar mentality from our lives and accept that our poverty is self-inflicted and it is absolutely unnecessary.

We pride ourselves on having been endowed with abundant natural resources. That is true but it is also important to know that natural resources have no natural owners. The real owners are those who have the technology, skills, and financial power to exploit those resources. They are the ones that take 90% of the mineral and other resources and leave a mere 10% for the host country.

It really beats my understanding that our leaders do not seem to realize that the real difference between the developed countries of America, Europe, Asia and the Far East and the underdeveloped countries of Africa lies in their technological capability. This capability has been defined as the extent to which countries access, utilize, and create science and technology for the solution of socioeconomic problems. Technology has a track record of solving developmental problems. Our modern world is driven by technology. Energy, agriculture, medicine and health, clean air and water, transportation, sanitation, management, utilization, and conservation of natural resources  all are based ultimately on science and technology. So, it is obvious that to be a part of that world, there must be science and technology elements in the development process.

Despite efforts to alleviate poverty, Ghana still exhibits a chronic inability to alleviate poverty. Poverty alleviation means, for many people, being able to afford nutritious food, access to clean water and sanitation, energy, safe shelter, education, and a healthy environment. Since science and technology have a historical record of providing solutions to poverty problems, any efforts to alleviate poverty will not succeed without innovations in food production, water, energy, and health provision and in general economic growth.

We must understand that Science, Engineering and Technology will give us the capacity to manufacture machines, develop processes and materials and exploit our abundant natural resources for national development. If we do not develop the capacity to manufacture machines that will work for us, we should as well forget about any dream of developing the Nation. No country ever developed without the capacity to manufacture machines. If we characterize Ghana as an agricultural nation, we do so by default because we cannot do anything else. We will continue to run the Adam and Eve, Cain, and Abel economy: planting yams and rearing animals.

We have not advanced to Noahs economy. He built a sophisticated ship that saved humanity and other forms of life. About 2200 years ago, the Chinese built the over 6300km Great Wall of China, without any assistance from the World Bank but we in the 21st Century have closed our minds to technology and need assistance to construct everything, including toilets. We need to constantly remind ourselves that the POVERTY GAP is a TECHNOLOGY GAP.

Again, our development should be driven by our ability to understand, interpret, select, adapt, use, transmit, diffuse, produce, and commercialize scientific and technological knowledge in ways appropriate to our culture, aspirations, and level of development.

Ghana needs a new brand of leadership. It is unacceptable that about 80% of inputs into agriculture, education and health are from foreign sources. It is a shame that a major thrust of our economic policy is to try as much as we can to attract foreign investors. Good as foreign investments are we just cannot sit down and think that without confronting our problems ourselves we can still be prosperous.

To my mind, Ghana is unable to attract significant Foreign Direct Investments (FDI). Any country that does not take the development of its human capital seriously finds it difficult to attract Foreign Direct Investments (FDI). The high-income developed countries with well-developed human capital are not only the major source of direct investment, but they are also the major recipients. China and the United States of America are the major recipients of FDIs in the world.

There is ample evidence that multinationals are more active primarily between similar, high-income countries and that outward direct investment, in particular, is associated with skilled labour abundance. Even when a multinational decides to invest in a developing country with a low human capital base the type of investment is the vertical one in which the production process is geographically fragmented by stages, the capital-intensive intermediates being produced in the home country of the multinational and the labour-intensive stage produced in the host country. This is in contrast to the horizontal investments in which the multinational carries on basically the same activity in the host country as at home, for example, German investors producing the same cars in the United States of America as they do in Germany. This type of investment is almost non-existent in Ghana.

Finally, Mr. Future President, I believe that the greatest asset of a nation is the trust and confidence of its people. This should, however, not be taken for granted. Leadership must also fight for this great asset by working hard with even-handedness for the people in all honesty. This asset has been and still is being squandered through misgovernment and corruption to the extent that leaders are not trusted and citizens do not see that they have a stake in their country and its future.

Most Ghanaians do not see any virtue in working for the future of their country. Our leaders have not been able to invoke in the citizens the spirit of nation-building. Mr. Future President how are you going to rectify this situation?

God bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong.

Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng

September 13, 2023

-classfmonline
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MoTAC), says it will work to widen the nation's foreign exchange earnings, projecting to generate US$6 million through arrivals by 2026.

Dr Mohammed Ibrahim Awal, the Sector Minister, said in 2022, the one million tourist arrivals fetched the nation about US$300,000.

Addressing the opening session of a days media capacity building workshop on tourism, arts and culture reporting in Kumasi, Dr. Awal said the Ministry had targeted to meet 1.2 million tourists arrivals in the country by 2023.

The MoTAC organised the training for participants from the middle zone and attended by selected Journalists and media practitioners drawn from the Ashanti, Bono, Bono East and Ahafo Regions. Dr Mohammed Ibrahim Awal

Besides the huge economic prospects, Dr Awal said domestic tourism could create local employment, saying with the support of the media, the Ministry could create about 150,000 local jobs every year.

He therefore implored the media to help identify, well-package and put a spotlight on the nation's tourist attraction sites to attract tourists and other investors.

Dr Awal entreated the private sector to develop interest and invest in the nation's tourism industry too to enhance domestic tourism.

GNA
The Accra West Region of the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has arrested a Nigerian national, Marvis Godwin, for stealing a customers water meter in Nyanyano.

The incident occurred at dawn on Thursday, September 14, 2023, and is one of the numerous cases of meter thievery that GWCL faces throughout the country.

In March this year, we reported in the media the alarming rate at which some members of the public were stealing water meters and water connection materials in our Dansoman, Nyanyano, and Kasoa operational areas, GWCL said in a statement.

The incidence went down drastically following the wide media attention it received, but it has risen its ugly head again. We have started recording cases of meter theft again and this time, we will not let the thieves go untouched.

Godwin is currently in police custody at the Kasoa Police Station and will be arraigned before the court on Friday, September 15, 2023.

GWCL is urging customers and the public to be on the lookout for perpetrators of these dastardly acts and to report them to the company or the police.

-Citi Newsroom
Ranking Member on Parliaments Finance Committee, Hon. Isaac Adongo, has slammed Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Attas criticism of attacks on the leadership of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) over the banks GH60.8 billion loss.

Isaac Adongo said Ken Ofori-Attas comments are unfortunate and sad and that they ignore the fact that the BoG is required to report on its comprehensive income statement, which reveals profit or loss.

Non-governmental organisations that are not profit-making dont report comprehensive income statements and they dont disclose profits or losses. They disclose deficits or surpluses. Is Ken Ofori-Atta aware that because of its special mandate and its need to make a profit or loss that is why the international financial standards require such entities to report comprehensive income statements revealing profit or loss? Adongo said.

Adongo argued that the BoG must be held accountable for its losses, just like any other public institution. He said the minority caucus in Parliament is right to demand answers from the BoG leadership.

We need to know what happened to the money that was lost. We need to know why the BoG was unable to manage its finances effectively. We need to know what steps are being taken to prevent such losses from happening again, Adongo said.

The BoG has defended its performance, saying that the loss was due to a number of factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and the Domestic Debt Exchange. The BoG has also said that it is taking steps to improve its financial management.

However, Adongo and other critics of the BoG are not convinced. They argue that the BoGs losses are a sign of mismanagement and that the central bank needs to be held accountable.

Mr Ofori-Atta in an article emphasised that the primary objective of the Bank of Ghana, like all central banks, is not to generate profit.

In the article titled Standing Strong With The Bank of Ghana, the Finance Minister addressed the importance of managing the central bank as a financially sustainable institution, rather than focusing solely on profitability.

The article comes in response to plans by the minority caucus of parliament to protest against Dr. Addison, accusing him of mismanaging the central bank, resulting in a loss of GHS60.8 billion in 2022 and negative equity of GHS55.1 billion.

-citinewsroom
Seven fishermen are reported missing after two fishing boats capsized earlier today at Ada estuary in the Greater Accra Region.

The incident occurred as the fishermen were attempting to navigate into the Volta River.

The National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) and the Ghana Navy have swiftly initiated a joint search and rescue operation to locate and rescue the missing fishermen.

Both organizations have deployed their personnel and resources to comb through the sea and shorelines, leaving no stone unturned in their efforts.

Confirming the tragic incident, Chief Naval Officer 1, Robert Lamptey, Eastern Naval Commander, informed Daily Guide Online that one of the boats, named Shalom, was carrying 11 people when it encountered a massive wave, leading to its capsizing. While 10 of the occupants were successfully rescued, one individual remains unaccounted for.

Additionally, another boat named Barcelona was swept away by forceful waves and ended up washing up in the Volta Region community. Two individuals from the community managed to save themselves, but six fishermen from the boat are still missing. The boat itself sustained significant damage but was eventually retrieved.

The close-knit community of Ada is reeling from the news of the disappearances and has rallied together, offering support and prayers for the safe return of the missing fishermen.

The families of the missing individuals are anxiously awaiting updates on the ongoing search and rescue operation.

Local authorities are urging fishermen to exercise extreme caution and prioritize their safety, especially when navigating the challenging waters off Ada.

The area is known for its unpredictable currents and ever-changing weather conditions, which can present significant risks, as demonstrated by this tragic incident.

The search and rescue mission remains ongoing, with authorities exhibiting unwavering determination to locate and rescue the missing fishermen.

Regular updates on the progress of the operation will be provided as the situation unfolds.

-DGN online
Transparency is essential when a police officer causes the death of another person in the line of duty. It is a tragedy when this happens, but most often it is an unavoidable tragedy  and the sooner all the facts of the incident are disclosed, the better this can be publicly understood.

Thats why its very difficult to comprehend why the Niagara Falls Police Department did not release the names of a man who was killed and the officers who fired the shots that killed him until 35 days after the shooting.

The shooting of Benjamin Rivers, 53, occurred on Aug. 3 and the officers who fired the shots were Officer Ian Sitek and Officer Kayla Richards, but these names were not made public until Sept. 7.

This withholding of information is even more perplexing because body camera footage graphically documenting the fatal confrontation  Rivers had a weapon and fired at the police officers, who then fired back  was released immediately after the shooting, on Aug. 4. Niagara Falls police officials gave statements that described most of the details  except the names  on that day. Usually, names are released immediately following such incidents, as demonstrated by recent police shootings in Buffalo, the Town of Niagara and Niagara Falls itself. In these incidents, the wait before the names were known ranged from one to four days. Not 35.

It should be obvious why full details should be released as soon as possible, but maybe it cant be stressed often enough that when information is withheld, public suspicion is bound to mount in direct proportion to the length of time it is kept in the dark. Its natural to suspect  fairly or unfairly  that when officials deliberately remain silent, there is something they dont want the public to know.

The state Attorney Generals Office of Special Investigation, which reviews incidents in which a police officer may have caused the death of a person, is investigating this fatal incident.

As it does so, police officials in Niagara Falls should review their procedures and commit to an official policy of consistent transparency for both the public good and their own.

Whats your opinion? Send it to us at lettertoeditor@buffnews.com. Letters should be a maximum of 300 words and must convey an opinion. The column does not print poetry, announcements of community events or thank you letters. A writer or household may appear only once every 30 days. All letters are subject to fact-checking and editing.
Aberdeen Japan Investment Trust PLC is a closed-ended equity mutual fund launched and managed by Aberdeen Fund Managers Limited. The fund invests in the public equity markets of Japan. It seeks to invest in stocks of companies operating across diversified sectors. The fund primarily invests in growth stocks of companies across all market capitalizations. It employs fundamental analysis with a bottom-up stock picking approach, focusing on such factors as management, business focus, balance sheet, corporate governance, key financial ratios, the market, the peer group, and business prospects to create its portfolio. The fund benchmarks the performance of its portfolio against the MSCI All Countries Asia Pacific (including Japan) index. It was formerly known as Aberdeen All Asia Investment Trust PLC. Aberdeen Japan Investment Trust PLC was formed in August 1998 and is domiciled in the United Kingdom.
Blackrock Resources & Commodities Strategy Trust is a closed-ended equity mutual fund launched by BlackRock, Inc. It is co-managed by BlackRock Advisors, LLC and BlackRock International Limited. The fund invests in the public equity markets of the United States. It seeks to invest in stocks of companies operating in the commodities or natural resources sectors. The fund also invests through derivatives with exposure to commodity or natural resources companies, with an emphasis on option writing. Blackrock Resources & Commodities Strategy Trust was formed on March 30, 2011 and is domiciled in the United States.
Hitachi, Ltd. provides digital system and services, green energy and mobility, and connective industry solutions in Japan and internationally. It operates through seven segments: Digital Systems & Services, Green Energy & Mobility, Connective Industries, Automotive System, Hitachi Construction Machinery, Hitachi Metals, and Others. The company offers system integration, consulting, cloud services, storage, servers, and ATMs; finance solutions, social infrastructure information systems, government and public corporation information system, big data and AI, and IoT and data management; and IT products. It also operates power grids, nuclear and clear energy, renewable energy; provides energy management services and distributed power source solutions; semiconductors; elevators and escalators; air conditioners; industrial equipment; and railway systems. In addition, the company offers medical equipment for radiation therapy, In-vitro diagnosis, and regenerative medicines; automotive systems; home appliances; and water treatment solutions for water supply and sewage infrastructure, industrial water treatment, seawater desalination, and water recycling, as well as maintenance and repair services. Further, it hydraulic excavators, wheel loaders, mining machinery, construction solutions, and mine management systems. Additionally, the company offers specialty steel, functional components and equipment, power electronic and magnetic materials, wires, and cable and related products; optical disk drives; and property management services. Hitachi, Ltd. was founded in 1910 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.
AECOM, together with its subsidiaries, provides professional infrastructure consulting services worldwide. It operates in three segments: Americas, International, and AECOM Capital. The company offers planning, consulting, architectural and engineering design, construction and program management, and investment and development services to commercial and government clients. It is also involved in the investment and development of real estate projects. In addition, the company provides construction services, including building construction and energy, and infrastructure and industrial construction. It serves transportation, water, government, facilities, environmental, and energy sectors. The company was formerly known as AECOM Technology Corporation and changed its name to AECOM in January 2015. AECOM was incorporated in 1980 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas.
Wells Fargo & Company is a multinational financial services company that has established itself as a prominent player in the global financial industry. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, Wells Fargo operates in 35 countries and serves over 70 million customers worldwide. Its rich history and successful mergers and acquisitions have contributed to its significant global presence.

As a comprehensive financial services provider, Wells Fargo offers a wide range of banking, investment, mortgage, and consumer financial services. The company's mission is to satisfy its customers' financial needs and help them succeed financially. Wells Fargo aims to achieve this by providing exceptional service, acting with integrity, fostering diversity and inclusion, and contributing positively to the communities it serves.

Wells Fargo's extensive product and service portfolio caters to various market segments. The company serves individual consumers, small businesses, corporations, and institutional investors. Its key customers encompass a broad spectrum, ranging from everyday banking customers to high-net-worth individuals and large corporations. Wells Fargo aims to meet the diverse financial needs of its customers through personalized solutions and innovative offerings.

The company has achieved several notable milestones and received recognition for its contributions to the financial industry. Wells Fargo has been ranked as one of the "Big Four Banks" in the United States, alongside JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and Citigroup. It is also recognized as one of the largest banks in the country by total assets, deposits, and market capitalization. Wells Fargo's commitment to delivering quality financial services has earned it a position among the most valuable bank brands.

Wells Fargo is led by an experienced and capable management team that guides the company's operations and strategic direction. The leadership team consists of individuals with diverse backgrounds and extensive finance, banking, technology, risk management, and customer service expertise. The Chief Executive Officer and President of Wells Fargo is Charles W. Scharf, who brings a wealth of experience in the financial industry. The management team also includes key executives such as Michael J. Santomassimo as the Chief Financial Officer and Scott Powell as the Chief Operating Officer. Each management team member contributes their professional background, accomplishments, and expertise to ensure the company's success.

Wells Fargo has demonstrated consistent financial performance over the years, driven by its diverse business segments and strategic initiatives. The company has reported steady revenue growth, reflecting its ability to attract and retain a large customer base. Wells Fargo's revenue metrics indicate its success in generating income through its various financial services and product offerings.

Earnings metrics illustrate the company's profitability and stability. Wells Fargo's focus on prudent risk management practices and diversified revenue streams contributes to its ability to generate sustainable earnings. Profit margin metrics showcase the efficiency of Wells Fargo's operations. The company's ability to manage costs effectively while generating revenue is key to maintaining healthy profit margins. Debt levels play a significant role in evaluating the company's financial position. Wells Fargo's management strives to maintain a conservative approach to managing debt, ensuring a strong balance sheet and financial stability.

Wells Fargo's valuation metrics are influenced by a range of factors, including its market position, financial performance, growth prospects, risk profile, and investor sentiment. Factors driving Wells Fargo's valuation include its brand recognition, customer base, diversified business segments, and ability to generate consistent earnings. Changes in investor sentiment, market conditions, and regulatory developments can also impact the company's valuation over time.

Investors closely monitor Wells Fargo's stock performance, assessing its ability to deliver value over the long term. The stock has had issues in the past due to news or events that have affected the company's share price, such as regulatory actions, the global pandemic, and strategic initiatives. These factors should be considered in analyzing its market performance.

Wells Fargo operates in the highly competitive financial services industry, which is subject to evolving regulatory frameworks and technological advancements. Understanding the broader industry in which the company operates is crucial to assessing its competitive positioning.

Wells Fargo competes with other major banks and financial institutions domestically and internationally. The company leverages its brand recognition, extensive product and service offerings, customer relationships, and technological capabilities to gain a competitive advantage. However, it also faces challenges such as regulatory compliance, changing customer preferences, and disruptive market forces.

Wells Fargo has identified several growth opportunities within its diverse business segments. The company aims to deepen relationships with existing customers, attract new customers and expand its presence in key markets. In consumer banking, Wells Fargo focuses on enhancing digital capabilities, improving customer experience, and providing innovative solutions to meet evolving customer needs. The company seeks to leverage its strong brand and customer base to drive growth and increase customer loyalty. In wealth and investment management, Wells Fargo aims to capitalize on the growing demand for comprehensive financial planning and advisory services. The company's expertise in wealth management positions it well to capture opportunities in an increasingly complex investment landscape.

As with any financial institution, Wells Fargo faces various risks and challenges. It is important to comprehensively analyze potential risks and challenges to understand their potential impact on the company's performance. Factors such as regulatory changes, cybersecurity threats, economic downturns, and reputational risks pose challenges to Wells Fargo's operations. The company has implemented robust risk management strategies, invested in technology and security measures, and enhanced compliance frameworks to mitigate these risks. Ongoing efforts to prioritize ethical conduct, transparency, and stakeholder trust are integral to managing risks effectively.
British American Tobacco p.l.c. engages in the provision of tobacco and nicotine products to consumers worldwide. It offers vapour, tobacco heating, and modern oral nicotine products; combustible cigarettes; and traditional oral products, such as snus and moist snuff. The company offers its products under the Vuse, glo, Velo, Grizzly, Kodiak, Dunhill, Kent, Lucky Strike, Pall Mall, Rothmans, Camel, Natural American Spirit, Newport, Vogue, Viceroy, Kool, Peter Stuyvesant, Craven A, State Express 555 and Shuang Xi brands. It distributes its products to retail outlets. The company was founded in 1902 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) issued its earnings results on Thursday, October, 26th. The restaurant operator reported $11.36 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts' consensus estimates of $10.46 by $0.90. The restaurant operator earned $2.47 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.47 billion. Chipotle Mexican Grill had a net margin of 12.27% and a trailing twelve-month return on equity of 45.26%. The company's quarterly revenue was up 11.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $9.51 EPS.

Read the conference call transcript.


V.F. Corporation is an American apparel and footwear company in Denver, Colorado. Founded in 1899 and initially headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania, the company has become a global leader in lifestyle brands, with a portfolio of over 30 brands, including The North Face, Timberland, Vans, and Dickies. V.F. Corporation operates in over 50 countries and employs over 50,000 people worldwide. The company is committed to sustainability, intending to be carbon-neutral in its operations by 2030.

Benno Dorer was appointed Chief Executive Officer and Interim President in December 2022. Benno served as V.F.'s Lead Independent Director for a year before taking the position. Before joining V.F., Mr. Dorer held senior positions at The Clorox Company and Proctor & Gamble. Also notable on the team is Cameron Bailey, who has over twenty-five years of manufacturing and operations management experience.

Over the past few years, V.F. Corporation has not delivered solid financial results. Back at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic V.F. Corporation missed its revenue goals by 14%, causing investors to sell the stock. However, increased online purchasing increased V.F. Corporation's gross margin by 230 basis points to 55.6%. The company has maintained a healthy balance sheet, with total assets capable of covering total liabilities. V.F. Corporation's valuation metrics are in line with industry peers. V.F. Corporation has a price-to-earnings ratio and a price-to-book ratio that align with industry peers. V.F. Corporation's stock has performed poorly recently. The company's market capitalization is $7.89 billion, making it one of the world's largest apparel and footwear companies. V.F. Corporation's average trading volume averages 10 million shares a day.

The apparel and footwear industry is highly competitive, with many established brands and new players entering the market. The industry is also subject to changing consumer preferences and trends. There has been a growing focus on sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices in recent years, leading to increased industry scrutiny. V.F. Corporation has led sustainability efforts, committed to sourcing sustainable materials and reducing its carbon footprint.

V.F. Corporation has several potential growth opportunities. The company has been expanding its direct-to-consumer business through e-commerce and brick-and-mortar stores. V.F. Corporation has also invested in new product development and innovation, such as The North Face's FutureLight fabric technology. In addition, the company has been actively pursuing acquisitions, such as its recent acquisition of Supreme, a streetwear brand.

Like all companies, V.F. Corporation faces potential risks and challenges. Changes in consumer preferences or fashion trends could negatively impact sales. The company is also subject to regulatory and political risks, such as changes in trade policies or tariffs. Additionally, V.F. Corporation's success depends on its ability to innovate and stay ahead of competitors in a rapidly evolving industry. However, the company's strong brand portfolio and commitment to sustainability should help it weather these challenges.

In addition, V.F. Corporation faces supply chain challenges, particularly in the current global supply chain disruptions. The company sources materials and products from all over the world, and any disruptions to these supply chains could impact its ability to meet demand or increase costs. V.F. Corporation has been working to mitigate these risks by diversifying its supplier base and investing in technology to improve supply chain visibility and flexibility.

Another potential challenge for V.F. Corporation is increasing pressure from e-commerce retailers like Amazon. While V.F. Corporation has been expanding its e-commerce business, it also relies on traditional retail partners for a significant portion of its sales. As consumers continue to shift towards online shopping, V.F. Corporation will need to navigate this changing landscape and maintain strong relationships with its e-commerce and traditional retail partners.

Despite these challenges, V.F. Corporation has several strengths that position it for continued success. The company's strong brand portfolio gives it significant market share across various segments, from outdoor and athletic apparel to workwear and streetwear. V.F. Corporation's commitment to sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices is also a significant advantage, particularly as consumers become more conscious of these issues.
Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC develops, manufactures, regulates, markets, and sells veterinary pharmaceuticals and related products for veterinarians. It operates through three segments: European Pharmaceuticals, North American Pharmaceuticals, and Pharmaceuticals. The company offers various endocrinology, dermatology, analgesia and anesthesia, cardiovascular, internal medicine, and nutrition products supporting cats and dogs with various therapeutic conditions, such as allergies, obesity, heart, and kidney diseases. It also provides water soluble antibiotics, vaccines, lameness, pain management for poultry, pigs, and cattle; and lameness and pain management products for horses and ponies. In addition, the company distributes veterinary pharmaceuticals and equipment; markets pet diets; and develops, regulates, manufactures, and markets crop protection, as well as offers financial services. It markets its products through wholesaler and distributor networks. The company operates in the United Kingdom, Germany, rest of Europe, the United States, and internationally. Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC was incorporated in 1997 and is headquartered in Northwich, the United Kingdom.
Hong Kong: Lo Chung-mau attends Foshan forum

Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau today led a delegation to attend the Fifth Greater Bay Area (GBA) Conference on Inheritance, Innovation & Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Foshan.



While addressing those gathered at the forums opening ceremony, Prof Lo said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is most grateful for the nations support and guidance for the development of Chinese medicine (CM) in Hong Kong.



He stressed that Hong Kong will continue to drive this advancement on all fronts with a view to contributing to the national development of CM.



During the conference, Prof Lo witnessed the signing of agreements on multiple GBA CM co-operation projects, including one on the establishment of a collaboration framework for the GBA CM Visiting Scholars Programme that serves to enhance clinical professional exchanges and push ahead the development of integrated Chinese-Western medicine treatment services.



The pact was signed by the Hospital Authority (HA), Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the First Affiliated Hospital of the Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine.



HA and Department of Health representatives participated in a keynote session and roundtable discussion, sharing Hong Kongs progress and achievements in developing high-quality CM services and industry.



In the afternoon, Prof Lo and his delegation attended a seminar, convened by National Health Commission Party Group Member and National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Party Secretary & Commissioner Prof Yu Yanhong, on the co-operation mechanism of the construction of CM highlands in the bay area.

At the seminar, relevant government officials and institution representatives in the bay area exchanged views on the establishment of a standing collaboration mechanism and co-operation platform.

This story has been published on: 2023-09-14. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Thanks to Say Yes Buffalo, the families of thousands of Buffalo traditional public and charter school students can proudly boast of their high school graduates who are heading to college on scholarships  complete with wraparound services and safety nets.

And now, a $10 million investment into the Say Yes endowment fund  which already stood at a healthy amount  will ensure that thousands more students will have similar opportunities for decades to come. The new money comes from New York State and was announced by State Sen. Timothy M. Kennedy, who partnered with Assembly Majority Leader Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes.

This money brings the total amount raised to $54 million  within striking distance of our goal, David Rust, executive director of the nonprofit told The Buffalo News Editorial Board. The Say Yes goal of $65 million would sustain the scholarships for approximately 25 years.

This vigorous support of Buffalo schoolchildrens scholastic and career futures is a bright beacon amid often unencouraging news on the local education front.

When it was established in 2011, Say Yes focused on scholarships for two- and four-year degrees for students in the citys traditional public and charter schools. Since then, 16 signature programs have been added, including apprenticeships, pre-K classes and summer programs, among other offerings.

The data  so far  demonstrates that Say Yes is working. More than 7,000 scholarships have been awarded, totaling $29 million. Buffalo Public School graduation rates have risen from 49% to 79% since the arrival of the nonprofit, which works closely with the schools and has extended its services to help students academically on Saturdays, offer parent resources, and provide mental health care.

For pre-college students, in addition to scholarships, Say Yes offers mentoring programs, high school to college transition programs and is developing college transition curricula. During the college years, there are paid internships, on-campus college success counselors, mental health care and a Say Yes Buffalo alumni network.

This is the comprehensive programming that has brought Say Yes robust community support. Its 2018 five-year fundraising campaign received a sizable head start from an anonymous donor who agreed to pay $1 for every $3 raised. That donor is now up to $18 million.

It will be important to continue monitoring Say Yes by watching the numbers for both graduations and jobs, but thus far, this heartening success demonstrates Western New Yorks understanding that it does take a village to raise a child.

Whats your opinion? Send it to us at lettertoeditor@buffnews.com. Letters should be a maximum of 300 words and must convey an opinion. The column does not print poetry, announcements of community events or thank you letters. A writer or household may appear only once every 30 days. All letters are subject to fact-checking and editing.
The Bristol-Myers Squibb Company is a leading global biopharmaceutical company with a long and impressive history of innovating and developing medicines that improve the lives of patients around the world. Founded in 1887 when William McLaren Bristol and John Ripley Myers purchased the Clinton Pharmaceutical Company, the company was initially named Bristol, Myers and Company. Its first nationally recognized product, Sal Hepatica, was released in the 1890s.

Bristol Myers-Squibb offers chemically synthesized drugs and biologics administered through injections or infusions to patients. The company's pharmaceutical portfolio includes a large number of well-known products. BMS's primary research and development sites are in New Jersey, California, Spain, Massachusetts, New York, Belgium, Japan, India and Massachusetts. The company's products sell to wholesalers and distributors around the world.

Bristol Myers-Squibb has a robust pipeline of investigational medicines in its pipeline. In addition, the company has established strategic collaborations and partnerships with various companies, successfully launching new products. These partnerships and investments generate portions of the company's revenue.

Bristol Myers-Squibb has acquired several companies over the years, including Medarex in 2009, ZymoGenetics in 2010, Inhibitex Inc. in 2012, Amylin Pharmaceuticals in 2012, iPierian in 2014, Flexus Biosciences in 2015, Cardioxyl in 2015, Padlock Therapeutics in 2016, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals in 2017, IFM Therapeutics in 2017, Celgene in 2019, Otezla in 2019, Forbius in 2020, MyoKardia in 2020 and Turning Point Therapeutics in 2022.

In 2005, the company divested individual consumer products and its subsequent consumer products businesses. In December 2014, the company received FDA approval for its cancer drug, Opdivo, used to treat skin cancers that do not respond to drug therapies. In 2019, the company divested its consumer health business, UPSA, to Taisho.

The company has also faced several scandals, lawsuits and investigations over the years, the biggest of which is the ongoing $1 billion lawsuit from Guatemala for the company's role in a 1940s experiment that infected hundreds with syphilis. In 2001 BMS faced an accounting scandal that resulted in a restatement of revenues from 1999 to 2001. In 2002, BMS faced a lawsuit based on illegally maintaining a monopoly on Taxol, a chemotherapy medication. The former head of the pharma group and the ex-CFO were indicted for federal securities violations in 2005. In July of 2006, an FBI raid on the company's corporate offices revealed that the company took steps to delay the release of a generic version of one of its drugs.

BMS began a significant restructuring in 2009, focusing on the pharmaceutical business and biologic products, productivity initiatives and cost-cutting. The U.S. attorney forced the company into oversight and appointed a monitor as part of a deferred prosecution agreement. Lou Schmukler joined Bristol-Myers Squibb in 2010 as global product development and design president.

In 2013, Forbes magazine ranked the company as the drug company of the year. Dr. Giovanni Caforio took the reigns as CEO in 2015. In 2017, reports began to surface that activist investor Carl Icahn took a stake in the company, widely seen as a signal for a potential future takeover.

As Bristol-Myers Squibb continues to experience success and growth, the company is committed to delivering innovative treatments to patients and staying ahead of the curve in the biopharmaceutical industry. With its focus on research and development and a long and rich history of delivering innovative medicines, BMS offers an excellent long-term investment opportunity.
Dongfang Electric Corporation Limited engages in the design, develop, manufacture, and sale of power generation equipment in China and internationally. It operates through five segments: Renewable Energy Equipment, Clean and Efficient Energy Equipment, Engineering and Trade, Modern Manufacturing Services Industry, and Emerging Growth Industry. The company generates electricity through wind power, solar power, hydropower, nuclear power, gas power, and thermal power. It operates 8,101 MW hydro-generating unit; 25,028 MW steam turbine generators; 3,370 MW wind power units; 23,929 MW power station steam turbines; and 22,017 MW power station boilers. The company also offers engineering contracting and services to global energy operators. The company was formerly known as Dongfang Electric Machinery Co., Ltd. and changed its name to Dongfang Electric Corporation Limited in October 2007. The company was founded in 1993 and is based in Chengdu, the People's Republic of China. Dongfang Electric Corporation Limited is a subsidiary of Dongfang Electric Corporation.
American Homes 4 Rent is a real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on the US rental industry. The company is a leader in the single-family home rental industry and "American Homes 4 Rent" is fast becoming a nationally recognized brand. The company is known for high-quality rental homes, providing good value and tenant satisfaction while generating profits for investors. The primary investment objective is to provide attractive risk-adjusted returns through dividends and capital appreciation.

The company plans to achieve its objective through the disciplined acquisition of new properties, by expanding its own construction and neighborhood building efforts, growing its geographically diverse portfolio, efficient property management, building a strong brand, and maintaining a sound capital structure.

The company was founded in 2011 by David Singelyn and his partner. Mr. Singelyn has served as a Trustee and CEO since 2012. The company began by acquiring homes in underserved areas and remodeling them to modern standards. The firm has since expanded its operations to construction and now builds planned communities tailored to different lifestyles as well. The company went public in 2013 and is listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

American Homes 4 Rent is an internally managed Maryland real estate investment trust focused on acquiring, developing, renovating, leasing, and operating attractive, single-family homes as rental properties. The company operates through a network of offices and the website AH4R.com. The company owns more than 55,000 properties across 22 states featuring move-in-ready and pet-friendly homes for individuals and families of all sizes.

All previously used properties have been renovated to a high Certified Property standard that brings them to a like-new condition. Interested parties can view listings by area on the website and even use the site to fill out applications and sign leases. Properties are located in communities that fit a variety of lifestyle needs including fences, marble countertops, and even attached 2 and 3-car garages. The communities are located in hand-picked neighborhoods with features including access to commerce, schools, and amenities like lawn care, pools, trails, and fitness centers.

Tenants are afforded many benefits by renting through American Homes 4 Rent. The first and most obvious is the freedom and flexibility of a mortgage-free lifestyle. On top of that, tenants can pay rent or schedule maintenance on their homes through the website, and dedicated service representatives are available 24/7.
Colruyt Group N.V., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the retail, wholesale, food service, and other activities in Belgium, France, Luxembourg, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Retail, Wholesale and Foodservice, and Other Activities. The company provides groceries, fresh products, dry products, and frozen and non-food products; and operates CNG, hydrogen filling, and charging stations. It also provides printing and document management solutions; and develops, constructs, operates, maintains, and finances wind energy projects. The company offers its products and services under the Bike Republic, Bio-Planet, Boni Selection, Collect&Go, Colruyt Group Academy, Colruyt Lowest Prices, Colruyt Prix Qualite, Cru, DATS 24, Dreambaby, Dreamland, Everyday, Graindor, Kangourou, Okay, Spar Colruyt Group, Xtra, Jims, Newpharma, The Fashion Society, Codifrance, Colex, Solucious, Spar For You, and Symeta Hybrid brands. It provides its products and services to wholesalers, commercial customers, and affiliated independent merchants, as well as schools, care homes, the hospitality sector, etc. The company was formerly known as Etn. Fr. Colruyt NV and changed its name to Colruyt Group N.V. in October 2023. The company was founded in 1928 and is headquartered in Halle, Belgium.
Salesforce, Inc. is a cloud-based SaaS company founded by former Oracle exec Marc Benioff in 1999. Mr. Benioff founded the company with 3 partners who will remain active in management until nearly 2020. Larry Elison, a co-founder of Oracle, is a noteworthy early investor who helped propel the company to its success. The company is a leader in CRM or customer relationship management and is largely responsible for the proliferation of digitized CRM solutions that is ongoing today.

The company was not immune to the DotCom bubble bursting and had to cut back its workforce and plans but the event is nothing but a blip on the radar now. Even then, the company could sustain a hyper-growth rate that saw revenue skyrocket from $0 in 1999 to over $100 million by the end of 2003. The company held its IPO in 2004 and raised $110 million. The hypergrowth continued until 2014 driven by the growing recognition among C-suite executives that digital CRM was the path to accelerated revenue and earnings growth.

The company made multiple small acquisitions in the period leading up to 2014, but it was then that investment in other technology accelerated. Total spending in 2016 topped $5 billion and led to the acquisition of Slack in 2020. The company was added to the Dow Jones Industrial Average, instantly becoming the largest technology company in the index. The Slack acquisition came under some criticism due to the elevated cost the company paid. The track record of growth that includes sustained sequential growth through the end of 2022 put an end to the criticism.

Today, Salesforce.com provides customer relationship management technology that brings companies and customers together worldwide. It is the 1st cloud stock to reach $1 billion in revenue, hitting that target in 2009. It is the worlds largest enterprise-level software provider and the 61st-largest company by market cap. In regards to US businesses, it is ranked 136th on the Forbes Fortune 500 list for 2022 when revenue topped $7.7 billion.

The company offers its services via the Customer 360 platform. The platform is designed to deliver connected experiences for a business's customers in a way that delivers sales. Revenue is generated in 2 channels that include Sales and Service. The Sales offering stores data, monitors leads and tracks traffic progression through the sales funnel. It can forecast and provide other analytics as well as deliver quotes, contracts and invoices.

The Service segment allows companies to provide personalized services and support at scale. Scale is the fundamental quality that drives Salesfoce.coms success because it has been able to scale and aid its clients when they scale. Among Services many offerings is the ability to create apps with a drag-and-drop builder tool. This segment also includes Slack which permits easy communication among business associates.

Salesforce.com Ventures is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Salesforce.com. It is in business to invest in start-up and early growth phase businesses and has invested more than $5 billion since 2009.
Matson, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides ocean transportation and logistics services. The company's Ocean Transportation segment offers ocean freight transportation services to the domestic non-contiguous economies of Hawaii, Alaska, and Guam, as well as to other island economies in Micronesia. It primarily transports dry containers of mixed commodities, refrigerated commodities, foods and beverages, building materials, automobiles, and household goods; livestock; seafood; general sustenance cargo; and garments, footwear, e-commerce, and other retail merchandise. This segment also operates an expedited service from China to Long Beach, California, and various islands in the South Pacific, as well as Okinawa, Japan; and provides stevedoring, refrigerated cargo services, inland transportation, container equipment maintenance, and other terminal services to ocean carriers on the Hawaiian islands of Oahu, Hawaii, Maui, and Kauai, as well as in the Alaska locations of Anchorage, Kodiak, and Dutch Harbor. In addition, the company offers vessel management and container transshipment services. Its Logistics segment provides multimodal transportation brokerage services, including domestic and international rail intermodal, long-haul and regional highway trucking, specialized hauling, flat-bed and project, less-than-truckload, and expedited freight services; less-than-container load consolidation and freight forwarding services; warehousing and distribution services; supply chain management services, and non-vessel operating common carrier freight forwarding services. The company serves the U.S. military, freight forwarders, retailers, consumer goods, automobile manufacturers, and other customers. The company was formerly known as Alexander & Baldwin Holdings, Inc. and changed its name to Matson, Inc. in June 2012. Matson, Inc. was founded in 1882 and is headquartered in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores S.A. provides a range of financial services and products to public and private sector customers in Colombia and Central America. It offers traditional deposit services and products, including checking accounts, savings accounts, time deposits, and other deposits. The company also provides commercial loans comprising general purpose loans, working capital loans, leases, loans funded by development banks, corporate credit cards, and overdraft loans; consumer loans, such as payroll loans, personal loans, automobile and other vehicle loans, credit cards, overdrafts, leases, and general purpose loans; and microcredit and mortgage loans. In addition, the company offers pension and severance fund management services; investment banking, including services relating to capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, and project finance transactions; mobile and online banking services; and bancassurance, insurance, trust, bonded warehousing and brokerage transactions, real estate escrow services, merchandise and document storage and deposit, customs agency, cargo management, surety bond and merchandise distribution services, and payment and collection services. Further, it is involved in equity investments in various sectors, including infrastructure, energy and gas, agribusiness, and hospitality; and treasury operations. The company was incorporated in 1994 and is headquartered in Bogota, Colombia. Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores S.A.
Plus500 Ltd., a fintech company, operates technology-based trading platformsin Europe, the United Kingdom, Australia, and internationally. The company operates an online and mobile trading platform within the contracts for difference (CFDs) sector enabling its international customer base of individual customers to trade CFDs on underlying financial instruments comprising shares, indices, commodities, options, ETFs, foreign exchange, and cryptocurrencies internationally. It also operates Plus500 Invest, a share dealing platform; and TradeSniper, an intuitive futures trading platform for the US retail trading market. The company was formerly known as Investsoft Ltd. and changed its name to Plus500 Ltd. in June 2012. Plus500 Ltd. was incorporated in 2008 and is based in Haifa, Israel.
Invesco Bond Fund is a close ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Invesco Ltd. The fund is co-managed by Invesco Advisers, Inc, INVESCO Asset Management (Japan) Limited, INVESCO Asset Management Deutschland GmbH, INVESCO Asset Management Limited, Invesco Hong Kong Limited, INVESCO Senior Secured Management, Inc., and Invesco Canada Ltd. It invests in fixed income markets. The fund primarily invests in fixed-rate investment-grade corporate bonds. It benchmarks the performance of its portfolio against the Barclays Baa U.S. Corporate Bond Index. It was formerly known as Invesco Van Kampen Bond Fund. Invesco Bond Fund was formed in 1970 and is domiciled in the United States.
News / National

by Staff reporter

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has officially confirmed that Zimbabwean drivers can utilize their licenses to operate vehicles on roads in the United Kingdom. Simultaneously, the government is actively working to initiate discussions with its British counterpart to eliminate the requirement for a Certificate of Competency when applying for the conversion of a driver's license.This confirmation from the ministry follows a rising number of messages circulating on social media, indicating that individuals holding Zimbabwean driver's licenses have encountered difficulties when attempting to convert them into British driver's licenses.In response to numerous inquiries from Zimbabwean driver's license holders, particularly regarding the recognition of Zimbabwean licenses by the British Government, Engineer Theodius Chinyanga, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, stated, "Yes, they do recognize Zimbabwean licenses. However, there have been unverified reports of some Zimbabweans using counterfeit metal driver's licenses, which unfortunately have resulted in their involvement in road traffic accidents or causing them. Consequently, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in the United Kingdom now requires a Certificate of Competency when applying for the conversion of a Zimbabwean license to a British license."A Certificate of Competency is a temporary license valid for 30 days issued to drivers who have successfully passed the practical driving test.Engineer Chinyanga further mentioned that the Ministry is actively engaged in discussions with the DVLA to potentially eliminate the need for a Certificate of Competency when seeking to convert a driver's license.
Macquarie Group Limited provides diversified financial services in Australia, the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. The company operates through four segments: Macquarie Asset Management (MAM), Banking and Financial Services (BFS), Commodities and Global Markets (CGM), and Macquarie Capital. The MAM segment provides investment solutions to clients across various capabilities in private markets and public investments, including infrastructure, green investments, agriculture and natural assets, real estate, private credit, asset finance, equities, fixed income, and multi-asset solutions. The BFS segment offers personal banking products comprising home loans, car loans, transaction and savings accounts, and credit cards; and wrap platform and cash management, financial advisory, and private banking services, as well as investment and superannuation products. It also provides deposit, lending, and payment solutions and services to business clients. The CGM segment provides risk management, lending and financing, capital solutions, market access, and physical execution and logistics to corporate and institutional clients; and specialist finance and asset management solutions. The Macquarie Capital segment provides advisory and capital raising services. It is also involved in development and investment in infrastructure and energy projects and companies; and brokerage business, including equity research, sales, execution capabilities, and corporate access. Macquarie Group Limited was founded in 1969 and is headquartered in Sydney, Australia.
Blackstone Mortgage Trust (NYSE:BXMT) pays an annual dividend of $2.48 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 12.75%. BXMT has a dividend yield higher than 75% of all dividend-paying stocks, making it a leading dividend payer. The dividend payout ratio is 217.54%. Payout ratios above 75% are not desirable because they may not be sustainable. Based on EPS estimates, BXMT will have a dividend payout ratio of 98.80% in the coming year. This indicates that the company may not be able to sustain their current dividend.

Read our dividend analysis for BXMT.
Nomura Holdings, Inc. provides various financial services to individuals, corporations, financial institutions, governments, and governmental agencies worldwide. It operates through three segments: Retail, Investment Management, and Wholesale. The Retail segment offers various financial products and investment consultation services. The Investment Management segment engages in the management of funds, investment trusts, and other investment solutions; and provision of investment advisory, custodial, and administrative services. The Wholesale segment is involved in the research, sale, trading, agency execution, and market-making of fixed income and equity-related products. This segment also engages in underwriting various securities and other financial instruments, such as various classes of shares, convertible and exchangeable securities, investment grade and high yield debts, sovereign and emerging market debts, structured securities, and other securities; arranging private placements, as well as other capital raising activities; and the provision of financial advisory services on business transactions comprising mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, spin-offs, capital structuring, corporate defense activities, leveraged buyouts, and risk solutions. The company was formerly known as The Nomura Securities Co., Ltd. and changed its name to Nomura Holdings, Inc. in October 2001. Nomura Holdings, Inc. was incorporated in 1925 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.
Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Nuveen Investments, Inc. The fund is co-managed by Nuveen Fund Advisors LLC and Nuveen Asset Management, LLC. It invests in the fixed income markets of Massachusetts, United States. The fund primarily invests in undervalued municipal securities and other related investments which are exempt from regular federal and Massachusetts income taxes. It seeks to invest in investment grade securities that are rated Baa/BBB or above by S&P, Moody's, or Fitch. The fund employs fundamental analysis with a focus on bottom-up stock picking approach to create its portfolio. It benchmarks the performance of its portfolio against the Standard & Poor's (S&P) Massachusetts Municipal Bond Index and Standard & Poor's (S&P) National Municipal Bond Index. The fund was formerly known as Nuveen Massachusetts Premium Income Municipal Fund. Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund was formed on January 12, 1993 and is domiciled in the United States.
ResMed Inc. develops, manufactures, distributes, and markets medical devices and cloud-based software applications for the healthcare markets. It operates in two segments, Sleep and Respiratory Care, and Software as a Service. It offers various products and solutions for a range of respiratory disorders, including technologies to be applied in medical and consumer products, ventilation devices, diagnostic products, mask systems for use in the hospital and home, headgear and other accessories, dental devices, and cloud-based software informatics solutions to manage patient outcomes, as well as provides customer and business processes. The company also provides AirView, a cloud-based system that enables remote monitoring and changing of patients' device settings; myAir, a personalized therapy management application for patients with sleep apnea that provides support, education, and troubleshooting tools for increased patient engagement and improved compliance; U-Sleep, a compliance monitoring solution that enables home medical equipment (HME) to streamline their sleep programs; connectivity module and propeller solutions; and Propeller portal. It offers out-of-hospital software solution, such as Brightree business management software and service solutions to providers of HME, pharmacy, home infusion, orthotics, and prosthetics services; MatrixCare care management and related ancillary solutions to senior living, skilled nursing, life plan communities, home health, home care, and hospice organizations, as well as related accountable care organizations; HEALTHCAREfirst that offers electronic health record, software, billing and coding services, and analytics for home health and hospice agencies; and MEDIFOX DAN's software solutions. The company markets its products to sleep clinics, home healthcare dealers, and hospitals through a network of distributors and direct sales force. The company was founded in 1989 and is headquartered in San Diego, California.
Equatorial Energia S.A., through its subsidiaries, engages in the electricity generation, distribution, transmission, and sanitation operations in Brazil. It operates through Distribution, Transmission, Wind Generation, Services, Sanitation, and Other segments. The company generates energy from wind, solar, biomass, qualified co-generation, and hydroelectric plants. It also distributes electric energy in the 217 municipalities of Maranhao State with a concession area of approximately 332,000 square kilometers serving approximately 2.5 million consumers; and 144 municipalities of Para State with a concession area covering 1,248,000 square kilometers serving approximately 2.6 million consumers. In addition, the company distributes electric energy to 224 municipalities of Piaui State with a concession area covering 251,000 square kilometers serving approximately 1.3 million consumers; 102 municipalities of Alagoas State with a concession area covering 27,848 square kilometers serving approximately 1.2 million consumers; 16 municipalities of Amapa State serving approximately 209,000 consumers; and 72 municipalities of Rio de Janeiro State serving approximately 1.8 million consumers. Equatorial Energia S.A. was founded in 1958 and is based in Brasilia, Brazil.
10 hours ago

Exxon Mobil or Chevron? Which is the better buy?

The answer to whether Exxon Mobil (NYSE: XOM) or Chevron (NYSE: CVX) is a better buy is relative. Exxon was clearly the better buy for investors before the Q3 results were released, but now that those results are in, the tables have turned. While the 2 reported roughly in alignment with each other and analysts targets, there is something wrong with Chevron. Chevrons results highlight why it acquired Hess Corporation and catalyzed a buying opportunity for investors. The takeaway is that Chevron has some hurdles to

Read Article
Avidbank Holdings, Inc. operates as a bank holding company for Avidbank that provides financial products and services to businesses and individuals in the Santa Clara, San Mateo, and San Francisco counties. The company offers business and personal deposit products, such as checking, money market, and savings accounts; and certificates of deposit. It also provides personal lending products include secured and unsecured lines of credit, home equity lines of credit, remodel and new home construction loans, and term loans; corporate banking comprises working capital lines of credit, equipment loans, acquisition financing, shareholder buyouts, ESOP loans, and owner-occupied real estate loans; and commercial real estate lending, such as permanent loans and bridge financing products. In addition, the company offers construction lending products, including land acquisition loans, pre-development loans, construction spec SFD, owner-occupied SFD, condominiums, subdivision, unsecured business lines, real estate bridge loans, and RLOC real estate secured loans. Further, it provides various financing solutions, such as structured finance, venture lending, asset-based lending, and sponsor finance. Additionally, the company offers various services, such as automated clearing house payments and collections, bill pay, wire transfer, lockbox, merchant, remote deposit capture, ATM/debit cards, credit cards, business courier, cash management, and notary services. Furthermore, it offers online and mobile banking services. The company was founded in 2003 and is headquartered in San Jose, California.
Commerzbank AG provides banking and capital market products and services to private and small business customers, corporate groups, financial service providers, and institutional clients in Germany and internationally. It operates through two segments, Private and Small-Business Customers, and Corporate Clients. The company offers cash services, including accounts, commercial payments, payment enabling, clearing and custody, and other services; trade services comprising documentary collection, letters of credit, guarantees, trade facilitation, supply chain financing, buyer's credit, and forfaiting services; and banking products comprising bilateral loans, club deals, Schuldschein instruments, syndicated loans, bonds, private placements and other debt instruments, and Islamic financing services. It also provides money market, and commodities risk management and precious metals services; interest, currency, and liquidity management services, as well as wealth management services. Commerzbank AG was founded in 1870 and is headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
Euro Manganese Inc. engages in the evaluation, exploration, and development of mineral assets. Its principal property is the 100% owned Chvaletice manganese project, which is involved in the re-processing of a manganese deposit hosted in historic mine tailings located to the east of Prague, the Czech Republic. The company was incorporated in 2014 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada.
Smiths Group plc operates as a technology company in Americas, Europe, the Asia Pacific, and internationally. It operates through four divisions: John Crane, Smiths Detection, Flex-Tek, and Smiths Interconnect. The John Crane division offers mechanical seals, seal support systems, power transmission couplings, and specialized filtration systems. The Smiths Detection division provides sensors and systems that detect and identify explosives, narcotics, weapons, chemical agents, biohazards, and contraband. The Flex-Tek division offers engineered components, flexible hosing, and rigid tubing that heat and move fluids and gases. The Smiths Interconnect division provides specialized electronic and radio frequency board-level and waveguide devices, connectors, cables, test sockets, and sub-systems used in secure connectivity applications. The company serves general industrial, safety and security, energy, and aerospace markets. The company was formerly known as Smiths Industries and changed its name to Smiths Group plc in 2000. Smiths Group plc was founded in 1851 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.
Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited engages in the exploration, extraction, and processing of gold. The company also explores for uranium, silver, copper, and molybdenum deposits. It has eight underground operations in the Witwatersrand Basin; an open-pit mine on the Kraaipan Greenstone Belt; and various surface source operations in South Africa. The company also owns interests in the Hidden Valley, an open-pit gold and silver mine; and the Wafi-Golpu project located in Morobe Province in Papua New Guinea. Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited was incorporated in 1950 and is headquartered in Randfontein, South Africa.
you are here:
A Boise woman was one of the first to break through the police line and enter the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, when a violent mob of Donald Trump supporters was trying to disrupt certification of Joe Bidens victory in the presidential election.

Video footage showed Yvonne St Cyr yelling, We need fresh people and push, push, push. In the past three years, she has continued posting conspiracy theories about the government online.

If she wants to protest the 2024 presidential election, shell have to do it from prison.

A Washington, D.C., federal judge on Wednesday sentenced St Cyr, 55, to 30 months in prison and three years of supervised release, according to a Department of Justice news release. District Judge John D. Bates also ordered her to pay $3,000 in restitution and fines.

In March, a jury convicted St Cyr of two felony counts of obstructing and interfering with law enforcement during a civil disorder, and four misdemeanors: entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds; disorderly conduct in a Capitol building; and parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building.

After the sentencing, St Cyr took to social media to sound off.

I will have a report date probably in about six weeks, St Cyr said in a Facebook video. So weve got six weeks for America to figure it out and stand up and get some truth, or Im going to jail. But thats OK, because if I go to jail, Im going to take a lot of information with me and Im going to teach a lot of women how to think and become free individuals.

She also said she thought it was unfair that the judge wouldnt allow her to play a video compilation of former President Trump speaking. She also claimed that she hasnt been paying taxes since President Joe Biden took office, and she encouraged others to stop paying them as well.

Yvonne St Cyr, an Idaho resident, posted at least two photos on Facebook after getting inside the U.S. Capitol during a riot on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021.

St Cyr showed lack of remorse and disrespect, U.S. attorney said

A mob of rioters stormed the Capitol in 2021 on the day that Congress was certifying the election results. They attacked law enforcement officers and vandalized the building, including lawmakers offices. At least seven people died in connection with the violence, including officers who died by suicide, according to a bipartisan Senate report.

Story continues

St Cyr traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend Trumps rally, where he repeated falsehoods about the election being rigged in Bidens favor and urged his followers to fight like hell. After leaving the rally, she joined a crowd of people occupying the West Plaza of the Capitol, according to the Justice Department release. St Cyr was part of a group who broke through a police line, and she was one of the first to enter the Lower West Plaza tunnel, prosecutors said.

Evidence showed that she crawled through a broken window into a Senate office space and helped another rioter enter as well.

Matthew Graves, U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, said in court documents that St Cyr showed no remorse for her actions. After the trial, she publicly called the United States justice system corrupt and proclaimed that she had every right to be there when speaking about the Capitol riot.

Her words show a lack of remorse, disrespect for the law, and disregard for the legal process, Graves said in the sentencing memorandum.

Photo evidence showed the entrance to the tunnel used by Yvonne St Cyr as it appeared on Inauguration Day.

Her family wrote letters of support for the judge to review for sentencing. Husband Troy St Cyr parroted Trump by writing about fraudulent election tampering.

I understand you may feel she made a mistake and what she did was not right, but I am proud of her and what she stood up for, wrote her daughter, Kayla Rodriguez. She practiced her freedom of speech. She didnt riot or break/damage property, and she stood her ground through all of this.

Graves had recommend that St Cyr be given 33 months in prison, pointing out a history of criminal activity. St Cyr was arrested in December 2020 for trespassing after she refused to leave Boises Central District Health building during a meeting about the COVID-19 pandemic and health measures being taken. She was dishonorably discharged from the U.S. Marine Corps for a drug offense.

Six Idahoans were charged for their involvement in the U.S. Capitol riots.

Other Idahoans charged in Capitol riot

Nearly 1,000 people have been arrested and charged with crimes related to the Capitol riot, including six Idaho residents. Among them were:
Meghna Mittal MEGHNA MITTAL is Deputy News Editor at Moneycontrol. Meghna has experience across television, print, online and wire media. She has been covering the Indian economy, monetary and fiscal policies, Finance and Trade ministries. She tweets at @Meghnamittal23 Contact: meghna.mittal@nw18.com
Yash Sadhak Shrivastava An aspiring voice in the Journalistic forefront with experience in covering financial markets & geopolitics.
Hurricane Lee was pounding Bermuda with high winds and dangerous surf early on Thursday as conditions deteriorated along much of the US east coast.

The monster hurricane is around 500 miles (nearly 800km) wide with winds reaching 100mph. Lee is moving north across the Atlantic at around 12mph, and is expected to gain speed through Saturday.

A hurricane watch spanned the US-Canada border including parts of New England and up into Nova Scotia. The Category 2 storm expected to make landfall in Maine or Nova Scotia this weekend.

The center of Lee will pass west of Bermuda into tonight, approach the coast of New England and Atlantic Canada on Friday and Saturday, and move across Atlantic Canada on Saturday night and Sunday, the National Hurricane Center reported.

Forecasters warned of storm surge and tide leading to coastal and inland flooding. If peak storm surge occurs at high tide, parts of Cape Cod could see up to 4ft of flooding while Boston Harbor could experience up to 3ft.

And it wont just be in New England as parts of New York are also under threat. Montauk and the Long Island Sound could see up to 3ft of flooding along with Flushing in Queens, while the Rockaways could see 2ft.

Key Points

Heavy surf from Hurricane Lee pound Bermuda

Rain-soaked New England hit by likely tornado amid wild weather ahead of Hurricane Lee

When will Hurricane Lee reach New England?

Where is Hurricane Lee currently?

The hurricanes projected path

Hurricane Lee in images: A surfer takes advantage of waves produced by the storm

06:00 , Graig Graziosi

Surfers in New York and New England took their boards out one last time on Friday before Hurricane Lee arrives in the region on Saturday.

Surfers spend a day at Rockaway Beach as impact from Hurricane Lee delvers large surf and rip tides to much of the Northeast on September 14, 2023 in New York City (Getty Images)

WATCH: Maritimers buckle down for Hurricane Lee

04:59 , Graig Graziosi

Residents of Canadas Maritime Providences prepared Friday for Hurricane Lee, which is expected to make landfall on Saturday afternoon.

Watch how they prepare for the storm below.

Coastal Maine could see 15-feet high waves due to Hurricane Lee

04:33 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

Story continues

The storm is projected to be more than 400 miles wide with tropical-storm-force winds when it reaches land, creating worries of power outages in Maine, the nation's most heavily forested state, where the ground is saturated and trees are weakened from heavy summer rains.

Lee remained a hurricane with 80mph winds at night as it headed toward New England and eastern Canada with 20-foot ocean swells, strong winds and rain.

Forecasters said there would be winds topping 40mph across the region, with peak winds reaching upward of 65mph ahead of landfall expected today.

While landfall was projected for nearby Nova Scotia, the Category 1 system was big enough to cause concerns over a wide area even if it weakens to a tropical storm.

Parts of coastal Maine could see waves up to 15-feet high crashing down, causing erosion and damage, and the strong gusts will cause power outages, said Louise Fode, a National Weather Service meteorologist in Maine.

As much as 5 inches of rain was forecast for eastern Maine, where a flash flood watch was in effect.

NOAA model shows Hurricane Lees predicted trajectory

04:00 , Graig Graziosi

The NOAA has released a new trajectory model showing the predicted path Hurricane Lee will take when it makes landfall near the US and Canadian borders on Saturday.

Hurricane Lee is a Category 1 storm, and is expected to bring high winds and strong storm surges to the region.

An NOAA map showing the predicted trajectory of Hurricane Lee as it continues on its path through New England and eastern Canada (NOAA)

How hard will Hurricane Lee hit New England?

03:49 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

New England is known for its fickle weather, powerful noreasters and blizzards. Destructive hurricanes, however, are relatively rare and typically dont pack the same punch as tropical cyclones that hit the Southeast.

New England, in the crosshairs of Hurricane Lee, is usually protected from the worst of a hurricanes wrath by the cold waters of the North Atlantic, and thats expected to help reduce Lee to a tropical storm by the time it arrives by today morning

A number of factors determine the path and strength of a hurricane. But the warm waters that can strengthen a hurricane are typically south of Cape Cod. North of there, the Atlantic waters are much colder

More here.

How hard will Hurricane Lee hit New England? The cold North Atlantic may decide that

More than 3 million people under hurricane or tropical storm watches

03:00 , Graig Graziosi

More than 3 million people between New England and Canadas Maritime Provinces are under either tropical storm or hurricane watches as Hurricane Lee moves closer to landfall.

The hurricane is expected to make landfall on Saturday afternoon.

The storm is forecast to produce winds of up to 75mph (121km/h) in the affected region.

CBS News senior weather and climate producer David Parkinson predicted that the Maritime Provinces would see the worst of the storm, but noted that 15 foot waves would likely batter New England as the storm moves through.

Today is the last day to prepare warns meteorologist as Hurricane Lee closes in on New England

02:00 , Graig Graziosi

Stephanie Abrams, a meteorologist with The Weather Channel, warned residents of New England and Canadas Maritime Provinces that today was the last day to prepare before Hurricane Lee arrives with strong winds, 2 to 4 inches (50-100ml) of rain, and signficant storm surges.

Today is the last day to preparshe told CBS Mornings on Friday. Conditions go downhill tonight, and tomorrow, Lee will be battering parts of New England. The strongest winds are expected to be along the coast.

Hurricane Lee is expected to make landfall on Saturday afternoon.

WATCH: Hurricane Lee and travel impacts

01:00 , Graig Graziosi

Nasa reveals how much hotter 2023 summer was than average

00:00 , Graig Graziosi

Warming seas, caused by the fossil fuel-driven climate criss, have helped to produce more severe hurricanes in recent years.

As Hurricane Lee closes in on New England and Canadas Maritime Provinces, NASA has marked 2023 as the hottest year on record, The Independents Stuti Mishra reports.

Earth recorded its hottest summer on record this year, data from the American space agency Nasa and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Noaa) confirmed in new maps that reveal how quickly the world is heating up.

The last three months had the hottest summer in the Northern Hemisphere and the warmest winter in the Southern Hemisphere, Nasa and Noaa said on Wednesday in a release.

READ MORE

This was the hottest summer ever recorded on Earth, Nasa map reveals

Rhode Island works to secure Independent Man statue atop the capitol before Hurricane Lee arrives

23:00 , Graig Graziosi

Governor Dan McKee of Rhode Island told the Associated Press that crews were working to secure the states iconic 11-foot-tall Independent Man statue above the State House dome on Friday before Hurricane Lees winds blow in on Saturday.

The 500-pound statue was shored up against the storms rain and winds.

Crews work atop the Rhode Island State House to secure the Independent Man statue and its base, revealed by drone footage to be separating from the dome. This was not part of the exterior restoration work, says @GovDanMcKee - cost is yet to be determined. -SK #WPRO pic.twitter.com/Oc9GXJXCmH  NewsTalk 99.7 & AM 630 WPRO (@wpro) September 15, 2023

Beaches close ahead of Hurricane Lee

22:00 , Graig Graziosi

East Hampton, New York, shuttered its beaches on Friday ahead of Hurricane Lee.

Swimming  and in some cases even walking  at the beach was prohibited due to the dangerous surf rolling in as a result of the storm.

Local officials put up caution tape along the sand at Main Beach to ward off any last minute swimmers before the storms effects are felt in full, accoridng to News12 Long Island.

Rough surf spotted off the coast of North Carolina as Hurricane Lee makes it way north

21:47 , Graig Graziosi

An X/Twitter user captured video of rough surf off the coast of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, stirred up by the churning of Hurricane Lee.

The storm is barreling north, where it is expected to make landfall on Saturday near the US-Canada border.

Surfers in New England and the Maritime Provinces have taken advantage of the 10 to 15 foot waves produced by the storm, but local emergency officials have warned that residents should seek shleter before the storm arrives in earnest late tomorrow afternoon.

This is the inlet at Wrightsville Beach North Carolina! The back of Hurricane Lee is packing a wallop as the tough surf crashes into the jetty The coastline is taking a beating with significant beach erosion! #HurricaneLee pic.twitter.com/vOIBhZOCyS  Rocco DiBari (@G12Rocco) September 15, 2023

Canadian Prime Minister calls incident response group as Canadian residents warned to stay home

21:19 , Graig Graziosi

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau convened the nations incident response group on Friday ahead of Hurricane Lee.

The group consists of Cabinet ministers and senior officials, and is only convened ahead of or in response to events with major implications for the nation.

The storm is expected to bring 2 to 4 inches of rain to New England and the Canadian Maritime Provinces as well as high winds and substantial storm surges.

Residents in Canada were urged not to let curiosity get the best of them and instead stay inside and safe during the storm.

Nothing good can come from checking out the big waves and how strong the wind truly is, Kyle Leavitt, director of the New Brunswick Emergency Management Organization, said Friday, according to the Associated Press.

WATCH: North Carolina prepares for Hurricane Lee

21:00 , Graig Graziosi

Utility workers pour into New England as residents pull out ahead of Hurricane Lee

20:38 , Graig Graziosi

Utility workers poured into New England on Friday in preparation for Hurricane Lees landfall on Saturday. The outer rain bands are already approaching the region, and forecasters have predicted high winds could topple powerlines and cause outages when the storm arrives.

At the same time, residents in coastal communities like Bar Harbor, Maine are pulling out of the area ahead of the storm. Mariners are returning home and many have reportedly been pulling their boats out of marinas in anticipation of storm surges resulting from the hurricane, according to the Associated Press.

Hurricane Lees outer rain bands are approaching New England

20:13 , Graig Graziosi

The outer rain bands of Hurricane Lee are on their way to New England as the storm barrels towards the east coast of the US and Canada.

The hurricane is expected to dump between 2 and 4 inches (50-100ml) of rain in eastern Maine, western Nova Scotia, and portions of New Brunswick.

The percipitation  following on the heels of a previous storm system that rolled over the region  could produce small stream and localised flooding in the region.

Hurricane Lee expected to be a large and dangerous storm when it reaches New England and Atlantic Canada

19:41 , Graig Graziosi

The National Hurricane Centre warned on Friday that Hurricane Lee would arrive in New England and Atlantic Canada as a large and dangerous storm.

The centre reported on Friday that Hurricane Lee was continuing to move further away from Bermuda and closer to New England and Atlantic Canada.

The storm is expected to bring hurricane-force winds extending outward up to 105mph(165km/h) with tropical storm-force winds extending outward up to 320 miles (520km) when it reaches eastern New England and the Canadian Maritime Provinces.

Satellite images capture the first bands of Hurricane Lee moving across New England and Maritime Provinces

18:59 , Graig Graziosi

The GOESEast satellite captured images of Hurricane Lees bands moving across New England and Canadas Maritime Provinces on Friday.

Both Maine and Massachusetts have issued states of emergency, with the latter activating its National Guard in preparation for the storms landfall on Saturday.

#GOESEast has been capturing absolutely stunning imagery of Hurricane #Lee today. That cirrus shield though .... pic.twitter.com/j3xMZGVbxB  UW-Madison CIMSS (@UWCIMSS) September 15, 2023

New NOAA shows Hurricane Lees predicted trajectory

18:30 , Graig Graziosi

The NOAA has released a new trajectory model showing the predicted path Hurricane Lee will take when it makes landfall near the US and Canadian borders on Saturday.

Hurricane Lee is a Category 1 storm, and is expected to bring high winds and strong storm surges to the region.

An NOAA map showing the predicted trajectory of Hurricane Lee as it continues on its path through New England and eastern Canada (NOAA)

Massachusetts declares state of emergency

18:16 , Graig Graziosi

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has declared a state of emergency and has activated the National Guard ahead of Hurricane Lees arrival in the region later this evening.

The storm is continuing its push north in the Atlantic Ocean. Forecasters believe that the eastern edge of the storm will brush Cape Cod and coastal Massachusetts on its way toward the easternmost Canadian provinces.

Tropical storm warnings are in effect for Cape Cod, the Islands, and coastal Massachusetts. Wind speeds are predicted to reach up to 60mph (97km/h) on Saturday.

The National Weather Service said heavy rains are not anticipated for that region.

Surfers take advantage of Hurricane Lees waves

17:28 , Graig Graziosi

Surfers were captured riding the waves near Montauk, New York as Hurricane Lee approaches the US northeast.

The storm is producing 10-foot waves along portions of the northeast coast. While waves of that size are not uncommon for the region, they dont typically occur when the water is warm, providing surfers with a rare treat.

Surfers in New Hampshire were quick to capitalise on the opportunity before Hurricane Lee arrives in the region on Friday evening.

Its like surfing in Hawaii, surf photographer Ralph Fatello told the Portsmouth Herald. We dont get that that often.\

Surfers in Montauk, New York, ride the waves as Hurricane Lee stirs up large swells along the East Coast. 



*Please be aware of all watches/warnings and do not attempt to swim in dangerous rip currents. pic.twitter.com/liUy0bvL9Y  AccuWeather (@accuweather) September 15, 2023

The enormity of Hurricane Lee on display thanks to satellite photos

17:05 , Graig Graziosi

This Friday, Sept. 15, 2023, 7:10a.m. EDT satellite image provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows Hurricane Lee in the Atlantic Ocean. Maine was under its first hurricane watch in 15 years and a state of emergency declared Thursday by Gov. Janet Mills. The hurricane watch applied to eastern Maine, while the rest of the state and an area extending south through Massachusetts was under a tropical storm warning. (NOAA via AP) (AP)

Hurricane Lee to drop 2-4 inches of rain on New England, Canadian coast

16:40 , Graig Graziosi

The National Hurricane Centre predicts that the Hurricane Lee will bring 2 to 4 inches (50-100ml) of rain to eastern Maine, western Nova Scotia, and portions of New Brunswick beginning tonight and lasting through Saturday evening.

The agency warned the rains could produce localized urban and small stream flooding.

Maine declared a state of emergency on Thursday ahead of the storms arrival.

Updated watches and warnings list from the National Hurricane Centre

16:11 , Graig Graziosi

The National Hurricane Centre has updated its list of watches and warnings ahead of Hurricane Lees arrival in New England and Canada.

SUMMARY OF WATCHES AND WARNINGS IN EFFECT:

A Hurricane Watch is in effect for...

* New Brunswick from the U.S./Canada border to Point Lepreau, including Grand Manan Island

* Nova Scotia from Digby to Ecum Secum

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for...

* Bermuda

* Westport Massachusetts northward to the U.S./Canada border

* Marthas Vineyard

* Nantucket

* New Brunswick from the U.S./Canada border to Fort Lawrence, including Grand Manan Island

* Nova Scotia from Fort Lawrence to Point Tupper

The Hurricane Watch for Down East Maine has been discontinued.

Hurricane Lee weakens to Category 1 storm, but remains expansive weather system

16:07 , Graig Graziosi

Hurricane Lee was downgraded to a Category 1 hurricane this week after reaching Category 5 late last week.

The storm thankfully did not make landfall during its peak power, but is now poised to bring rains and high winds to New England and Canadas southeastern coast on Saturday.

According to the National Hurricane Centre, the storm has become asymmetrical as its crawled up the US east coast, with most of its thunderstorms on its north side and its dry air trapped on the south.

Despite its weakening due to the Atlantic wind shear, the storm is still enormous. Tropical storm-speed winds extend up to 320 miles from Hurricane Lees center, and will be felt in New England just a day after the remnants of the storm leave Bermuda.

Bermuda shakes-off Hurricane Lee

15:18 , Graig Graziosi

Bermuda will experience tropical storm force winds through Friday morning and early afternoon as Hurricane Lee moves away from the island.

Emergency crews were dispatched to assess the island for damage on Friday morning, according to Lt Col David Burch, the acting Minister of National Security.

Some neighborhoods suffered power outages. The island's school were kept closed Friday to assess damage.

Hurricane Lee is approximately 180 nautical miles north of the island as it heads for a weekend landfall near the US-Canada border.

Earth is outside its safe operating space for humanity on most key measurements, study says

15:00 , Joe Sommerlad

Earth is exceeding its safe operating space for humanity in six of nine key measurements of its health and two of the remaining three are headed in the wrong direction, a new study has said.

Earths climate, biodiversity, land, freshwater, nutrient pollution and novel chemicals (human-made compounds like microplastics and nuclear waste) are all out of whack, a group of international scientists said in the journal Science Advances.

Only the acidity of the oceans, the health of the air and the ozone layer are within the boundaries considered safe and both ocean and air pollution are heading in the wrong direction, the study said.

We are in very bad shape, said study co-author Johan Rockstrom, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany.

We show in this analysis that the planet is losing resilience and the patient is sick.

Read more

Earth is outside its safe operating space for humanity, study says

How hard will Hurricane Lee hit New England?

14:30 , Joe Sommerlad

Well, the cold North Atlantic may decide that.

New England is known for its fickle weather, powerful noreasters and blizzards.

Destructive hurricanes, however, are relatively rare and typically dont pack the same punch as tropical cyclones that hit the southeast.

Heres why the geography matters when it comes to Lees likely impact on the region.

How hard will Hurricane Lee hit New England? The cold North Atlantic may decide that

Hurricane Lee to strike weather-worn New England after heavy rain, flooding and tornadoes

14:00 , Joe Sommerlad

After a deluge of rain, flooding, sinkholes and tornadoes this week, New England is about to face Hurricane Lee.

As the Category 1 system impacted Bermuda, Maine was under its first hurricane watch in 15 years and a state of emergency declared Thursday by state governor Janet Mills. The water-logged region prepared for 20ft waves offshore and winds of up to 80mph, along with more rain.

The hurricane watch applied to eastern Maine, while the rest of the state and an area extending south through Massachusetts was under a tropical storm warning. Powerful winds and coastal flooding were expected to arrive on Friday afternoon in southern New England and spread north.

Although Lee did not contribute to the flooding that hit New England earlier in the week, it threatened to exacerbate conditions in a region that is already waterlogged.

The Coast Guard and emergency management agencies warned New England residents to be prepared, and utility companies brought in reinforcements to deal with any power outages.

Read more:

Hurricane Lee to strike weather-worn New England after heavy rain, flooding and tornadoes

East Coast residents capture calm before the storm

13:30 , Joe Sommerlad

Locals from eastern coastal states have been posting images of brooding clouds and choppy waves on social media this morning as Hurricane Lee makes its approach.

There is a sense of urgency in the air as the morning sun struggles to pierce through the darkened sky, signaling that the hurricanes impact is imminent. Coast Guard beach, Eastham, Cape Cod. #HurricaneLee #capecod pic.twitter.com/lAMqkawPga  Darius Aniunas (@dariusaniunas) September 15, 2023

It's not every day that you get such a perfect view of nearly an entire hurricane's cloud field...here's Hurricane Lee a few hundred miles off of the coast of Ocean City, NJ pic.twitter.com/GZ5xLzXW3C  Michael Beam (@MikeBeam) September 15, 2023

Tropical storm conditions expected to begin across parts of coastal New England later this afternoon

13:00 , Joe Sommerlad

Heres the latest from the National Hurricane Center this morning:

Hurricane #Lee Advisory 40A: Lee Remains a Large Hurricane Over the Western Atlantic. Tropical Storm Conditions Expected to Begin Across Parts Of Coastal New England Later This Afternoon. https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ  National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) September 15, 2023

5 am AST Fri Sep. 15 Key Messages for Hurricane #Lee.



Tropical-storm-force winds across portions of New England and Atlantic Canada could lead to downed trees and potential power outages tonight and on Saturday. Beach conditions along the U.S. east coast will remain hazardous pic.twitter.com/mFakV2GHXC  National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) September 15, 2023

Hurricane Lee to make landfall near US-Canada border on Saturday

12:00 , Graig Graziosi

The National Hurricane Centre is forecasting that Hurricane Lee will make landfall near on Saturday near the US border with Canada.

The storm may be a post-tropical storm by the time it reaches the northeastern portion of the US and Canadas east coast.

Forecasters are predicting that heavy rain  up to four inches  will fall over eastern Massachusetts and most of Maine, new Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.

The storm is likely to bring flooding and high winds may topples trees and powerlines, causing outages throughout the region.

Maine power officials warn Hurricane Lee may down trees, powerlines

11:00 , Graig Graziosi

Hurricane Lee is approaching New England less than a week after the region was soaked with heavy rain, which has already softened and begun to erode the soil in the region.

Jon Breed, spokesperson for Central Maine Power, told The Weather Channel that the current erosion, paired with the expected rain and tropical storm-force winds from Hurricane Lee may result in toppled lines and trees.

[Previous rain] has led to a lot of soil, soil erosion, nutrient runoff, he said. That means that the root systems on a number of trees are rotting.

He warned that downed lines can be extremely dangerous and advised residents to steer clear of them in the event of any line collapses.

As always, if those trees bring down lines, we want customers to stay very well clear of those lines that can be incredibly dangerous and call us so our crews can come and resolve that problem, he said.

Saturday morning into Sunday expected to be peak of Hurricane Lees impact on New England

10:00 , Graig Graziosi

The National Weather Service expects Saturday morning and Sunday to be the peak of Hurricane Lees impact on New England.

It looks like early Saturday morning into Saturday evening should be the peak in New England, Weather Channel senior meteorologist Chris Dolce said.

The hurricane is currently churning up the US east coast on its way toward New England.

A state of emergency has already been delcared in Maine, where officials are expecting high winds, heavy rain, significant storm surge and possible flooding as a result of the hurricane.

State of emergency declared in Maine ahead of Hurricane Lees arrival

09:00 , Joe Sommerlad

Officials in Maine have declared a state of emergency ahead of Hurricane Lees arrival in the northeast.

We continue to closely track the storm and expect heavy rains and high winds that likely will cause storm surge, flooding, infrastructure damage, and power outages, Governor Janet Mills said in a social media post on Thursday.

We continue to strongly urge Maine people  particularly those Downeast  to exercise caution and to take steps to ensure they have what they need to stay safe as the storm draws closer.

In preparation for Hurricane Lees impending landfall tomorrow night, I have declared a State of Emergency and requested that @POTUS issue a preemptive Presidential Emergency Disaster Declaration for Maine.  Governor Janet Mills (@GovJanetMills) September 14, 2023

National Weather Service shares photo of gargantuan Hurricane Lee

08:00 , Graig Graziosi

The National Weather Service office serving Portland, Maine, shared an image showing the size of Hurricane Lee as it approaches the US east coast.

Hurricane Lee is expected to produce tropical storm force winds along the US east coast in the coming days, and Bermuda has already closed schools for Thursday and Friday as it feels the effects of the passing storm.

Satellite gives us a good idea of just how large Hurricane Lee actually is. This is also a reminder of why impacts from this storm may be felt a long way from the center of the track. pic.twitter.com/K0CNHTszEE  NWS Gray (@NWSGray) September 14, 2023

Sinkhole swallows cars in wake of Massachusetts flooding in Massachusetts

07:00 , Graig Graziosi

A trio of cars were left dangling on the edges of a sinkhole outside a dealership in Massachusetts following severe flooding in the area earlier this week.

The sinkhole opened up in the city of Leominster after heavy rains destabilised the ground and opened up a 15-foot deep chasm.

Public works crews expressed concerns that the flood and subsequent sinkhole might have weakened the foundation of a home near the affected area. The couple living in the house were forced to leave on Monday night.

READ MORE

Sinkhole swallows cars in wake of devastating flooding in Massachusetts

Massachusetts urges residents to prepare for storms arrival

06:00 , Graig Graziosi

Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency issued a checklist of preparations for residents on Thursday as Hurricane Lee is expected to bring life-threatening conditions to parts of the state.

MEMA is actively monitoring Hurricane #Lee as it makes its way up the east coast. Now is the time to make sure youre prepared for any potential impacts, including storm surge flooding, strong wind & heavy rain.



Learn how to prepare: https://t.co/dTeZQ4qXlN pic.twitter.com/WvaUFs4mgv  MEMA (@MassEMA) September 14, 2023

Watch: Preparing for Hurricane Lee

04:59 , Graig Graziosi

Bermuda suspends ferries and shuts schools amid impacts from Hurricane Lee

04:00 , Graig Graziosi

The government of Bermuda shared updates on safety measures as Hurricane Lee began to impact the island early on Thursday.

Schools were closed on Thursday and Friday, and citizens were asked to stay off the roads.

Ferry services had also been suspended and L.F. Wade International Airport in St Georges was closed at noon.

Satellite gives us a good idea of just how large Hurricane Lee actually is. This is also a reminder of why impacts from this storm may be felt a long way from the center of the track. pic.twitter.com/K0CNHTszEE  NWS Gray (@NWSGray) September 14, 2023

Pictured: The vast scale of Hurricane Lee captured from space

03:00 , Graig Graziosi

A satellite image, from 8am (eastern) on Thursday, shows Hurricane Lee in the Atlantic Ocean.

Lee looks poised to wallop New England even as the region still deals with the impact of days of wild weather that produced torrential rain, flooding, sinkholes and a likely tornado.

This Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, 7:51 a.m. EDT satellite image provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows Hurricane Lee in the Atlantic Ocean. Lee looks poised to wallop New England later this week even as the region still deals with the impact of days of wild weather that produced torrential rain, flooding, sinkholes and a likely tornado. (NOAA via AP)

Life-threatening storm surge warnings

02:00 , Graig Graziosi

Thursday morning storm surge warnings from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) at 11am Thursday for Massachusetts and New York are as follows:

The combination of storm surge and tide will cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters moving inland from the shoreline, NHC reported.

The water could reach the following heights above ground somewhere in the indicated areas if the peak surge occurs at the time of high tide. - Chatham, MA to Sagamore Beach, MA: 2-4 ft

- Cape Cod Bay: 2-4 ft

- Nantucket: 2-4 ft

- Sagamore Beach, MA to Border of US/Canada:1-3 ft

- Boston Harbor: 1-3 ft

- Flushing, NY to Chatham, MA:1-3 ft

- Montauk Point, NY to Flushing, NY: 1-3 ft

- Long Island Sound: 1-3 ft

- Marthas Vineyard: 1-3 ft

- Rockaway Inlet, NY to Montauk Point, NY: 1-2 ft

Earth is outside its safe operating space for humanity on most key measurements, study says

01:00 , Graig Graziosi

Earth is exceeding its safe operating space for humanity in six of nine key measurements of its health, and two of the remaining three are headed in the wrong direction, a new study said.

Earths climate, biodiversity, land, freshwater, nutrient pollution and novel chemicals (human-made compounds like microplastics and nuclear waste) are all out of whack, a group of international scientists said in Wednesdays journal Science Advances.

Only the acidity of the oceans, the health of the air and the ozone layer are within the boundaries considered safe, and both ocean and air pollution are heading in the wrong direction, the study said.

We are in very bad shape, said study co-author Johan Rockstrom, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany.

We show in this analysis that the planet is losing resilience and the patient is sick.

READ MORE:

Earth is outside its safe operating space for humanity, study says

Why US floods are getting flashier

Friday 15 September 2023 00:00 , Graig Graziosi

Last year, The Independent explored why the United States is at risk of a future filled with flashier flash floods.

Read more below

Why US floods are getting flashier

Hurricane Lee in Bermuda

Thursday 14 September 2023 23:00 , Graig Graziosi

Hurricane Lee was pounding Bermuda with high winds and dangerous surf early on Thursday as conditions deteriorated along much of the US east coast.

The hurricane has winds nearing 100mph and is moving north near 12mph, with an increase in forward speed expected through Saturday.

A hurricane watch spanned the US-Canada border including parts of New England and up into Nova Scotia. The Category 2 storm expected to make landfall in Maine or Nova Scotia this weekend.

The center of Lee will pass west of Bermuda today and tonight, approach the coast of New England and Atlantic Canada Friday and Saturday, and move across Atlantic Canada on Saturday night and Sunday, the National Hurricane Center reported.

Forecasters warned of storm surge and tide leading to coastal and inland flooding. If peak storm surge occurs at high tide, parts of Cape Cod could see up to 4ft of flooding while Boston Harbor could experience up to 3ft.

And it wont just be in New England as parts of New York are also under threat. Montauk and the Long Island Sound could see up to 3ft of flooding along with Flushing in Queens, while the Rockaways could see 2ft.

Earth is outside its safe operating space for humanity on most key measurements, study says

Thursday 14 September 2023 22:49 , Louise Boyle

Earth is exceeding its safe operating space for humanity in six of nine key measurements of its health, and two of the remaining three are headed in the wrong direction, a new study said.

Earths climate, biodiversity, land, freshwater, nutrient pollution and novel chemicals (human-made compounds like microplastics and nuclear waste) are all out of whack, a group of international scientists said in Wednesdays journal Science Advances.

Only the acidity of the oceans, the health of the air and the ozone layer are within the boundaries considered safe, and both ocean and air pollution are heading in the wrong direction, the study said.

We are in very bad shape, said study co-author Johan Rockstrom, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany.

We show in this analysis that the planet is losing resilience and the patient is sick.

Read more

Earth is outside its safe operating space for humanity, study says

Watch: Hurricane Lee advances towards US as warnings issued for New England

Thursday 14 September 2023 22:00 , Graig Graziosi

Hurricane Lee to make landfall near US-Canada border on Saturday

Thursday 14 September 2023 21:41 , Graig Graziosi

The National Hurricane Centre is forecasting that Hurricane Lee will make landfall near on Saturday near the US border with Canada.

The storm may be a post-tropical storm by the time it reaches the northeastern portion of the US and Canadas east coast.

Forecasters are predicting that heavy rain  up to four inches  will fall over eastern Massachusetts and most of Maine, new Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.

The storm is likely to bring flooding and high winds may topples trees and powerlines, causing outages throughout the region.

Maine power officials warn Hurricane Lee may down trees, powerlines

Thursday 14 September 2023 21:05 , Graig Graziosi

Hurricane Lee is approaching New England less than a week after the region was soaked with heavy rain, which has already softened and begun to erode the soil in the region.

Jon Breed, spokesperson for Central Maine Power, told The Weather Channel that the current erosion, paired with the expected rain and tropical storm-force winds from Hurricane Lee may result in toppled lines and trees.

[Previous rain] has led to a lot of soil, soil erosion, nutrient runoff, he said. That means that the root systems on a number of trees are rotting.

He warned that downed lines can be extremely dangerous and advised residents to steer clear of them in the event of any line collapses.

As always, if those trees bring down lines, we want customers to stay very well clear of those lines that can be incredibly dangerous and call us so our crews can come and resolve that problem, he said.

Saturday morning into Sunday expected to be peak of Hurricane Lees impact on New England

Thursday 14 September 2023 20:48 , Graig Graziosi

The National Weather Service expects Saturday morning and Sunday to be the peak of Hurricane Lees impact on New England.

It looks like early Saturday morning into Saturday evening should be the peak in New England, Weather Channel senior meteorologist Chris Dolce said.

The hurricane is currently churning up the US east coast on its way toward New England.

A state of emergency has already been delcared in Maine, where officials are expecting high winds, heavy rain, significant storm surge and possible flooding as a result of the hurricane.

State of emergency declared in Maine ahead of Hurricane Lees arrival

Thursday 14 September 2023 20:26 , Graig Graziosi

Officials in Maine have declared a state of emergency ahead of Hurricane Lees arrival in the northeast.

We continue to closely track the storm and expect heavy rains and high winds that likely will cause storm surge, flooding, infrastructure damage, and power outages, Governor Janet Mills said in a social media post on Thursday. We continue to strongly urge Maine people  particularly those Downeast  to exercise caution and to take steps to ensure they have what they need to stay safe as the storm draws closer.

In preparation for Hurricane Lees impending landfall tomorrow night, I have declared a State of Emergency and requested that @POTUS issue a preemptive Presidential Emergency Disaster Declaration for Maine.  Governor Janet Mills (@GovJanetMills) September 14, 2023

National Weather Service shares photo of gargantuan Hurricane Lee

Thursday 14 September 2023 20:02 , Graig Graziosi

The National Weather Service office serving Portland, Maine, shared an image showing the size of Hurricane Lee as it approaches the US east coast.

Hurricane Lee is expected to produce tropical storm force winds along the US east coast in the coming days, and Bermuda has already closed schools for Thursday and Friday as it feels the effects of the passing storm.

Satellite gives us a good idea of just how large Hurricane Lee actually is. This is also a reminder of why impacts from this storm may be felt a long way from the center of the track. pic.twitter.com/K0CNHTszEE  NWS Gray (@NWSGray) September 14, 2023

Sinkhole swallows cars in wake of Massachusetts flooding in Massachusetts

Thursday 14 September 2023 19:40 , Louise Boyle

A trio of cars were left dangling on the edges of a sinkhole outside a dealership in Massachusetts following severe flooding in the area earlier this week.

The sinkhole opened up in the city of Leominster after heavy rains destabilised the ground and opened up a 15-foot deep chasm.

Public works crews expressed concerns that the flood and subsequent sinkhole might have weakened the foundation of a home near the affected area. The couple living in the house were forced to leave on Monday night.

Graig Graziosi reports

Sinkhole swallows cars in wake of devastating flooding in Massachusetts

Massachusetts urges residents to prepare for storms arrival

Thursday 14 September 2023 19:10 , Louise Boyle

Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency issued a checklist of preparations for residents on Thursday as Hurricane Lee is expected to bring life-threatening conditions to parts of the state.

MEMA is actively monitoring Hurricane #Lee as it makes its way up the east coast. Now is the time to make sure youre prepared for any potential impacts, including storm surge flooding, strong wind & heavy rain.



Learn how to prepare: https://t.co/dTeZQ4qXlN pic.twitter.com/WvaUFs4mgv  MEMA (@MassEMA) September 14, 2023

Watch: Preparing for Hurricane Lee

Thursday 14 September 2023 18:46 , Louise Boyle

Hurricane Lees potential impacts: Mapped

Thursday 14 September 2023 18:25 , Louise Boyle

The National Weather Service shared its forecast models for Hurricane Lee on Thursday which revealed hurricane conditions and coastal flooding possible in portions of eastern Maine, southern New Brunswick, and western Nova Scotia on Saturday.

Tropical storm conditions are also expected on Cape Cod, Marthas Vineyard, and Nantucket.

Tropical storm conditions are possible elsewhere across New England and Atlantic Canada, NWS added.

Whats more, heavy rainfall from the storm may produce flooding across eastern New England and into portions of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia from Friday night into Saturday night.

There is the potential for life-threatening storm surge flooding in portions of southeastern Massachusetts, including Cape Cod and Nantucket, late Friday and Saturday.

Forecast of arrival time of winds from Hurricane Lee on Thursday, September 14 (NOAA)

Rainfall forecast for Hurricane Lee on Thursday, September 14 (NOAA)

Peak storm surge forecast for Hurricane Lee on Thursday, September 14 (NOAA)

Bermuda suspends ferries and shuts schools amid impacts from Hurricane Lee

Thursday 14 September 2023 18:03 , Louise Boyle

The government of Bermuda shared updates on safety measures as Hurricane Lee began to impact the island early on Thursday.

Schools were closed on Thursday and Friday, and citizens were asked to stay off the roads.

Ferry services had also been suspended and L.F. Wade International Airport in St Georges was closed at noon.

An update regarding public and emergency services: pic.twitter.com/nbTt6tp09R  Bermuda Government (@BdaGovernment) September 14, 2023

Key messages on Hurricane Lee from the National Hurricane Center

Thursday 14 September 2023 17:39 , Louise Boyle

Here are the 11 AM Thursday Key Messages for Hurricane #Lee. Tropical Storm Warning issued for Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket. Follow the latest at https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ pic.twitter.com/idFYeWTzNZ  National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) September 14, 2023

Pictured: The vast scale of Hurricane Lee captured from space

Thursday 14 September 2023 17:19 , Louise Boyle

A satellite image, from 8am (eastern) on Thursday, shows Hurricane Lee in the Atlantic Ocean.

Lee looks poised to wallop New England even as the region still deals with the impact of days of wild weather that produced torrential rain, flooding, sinkholes and a likely tornado.

Satellite image at 8am (eastern) on Thursday, September 14, 2023 of Hurricane Lee in the Atlantic Ocean (NOAA)

Life-threatening storm surge warnings

Thursday 14 September 2023 17:05 , Louise Boyle

Heres the latest on storm surge warnings from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) at 11am Thursday for Massachusetts and New York.

The combination of storm surge and tide will cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters moving inland from the shoreline, NHC reported.

The water could reach the following heights above ground somewhere in the indicated areas if the peak surge occurs at the time of high tide.- Chatham, MA to Sagamore Beach, MA: 2-4 ft

- Cape Cod Bay: 2-4 ft

- Nantucket: 2-4 ft

- Sagamore Beach, MA to Border of US/Canada:1-3 ft

- Boston Harbor: 1-3 ft

- Flushing, NY to Chatham, MA:1-3 ft

- Montauk Point, NY to Flushing, NY: 1-3 ft

- Long Island Sound: 1-3 ft

- Marthas Vineyard: 1-3 ft

- Rockaway Inlet, NY to Montauk Point, NY: 1-2 ft

Earth is outside its safe operating space for humanity on most key measurements, study says

Thursday 14 September 2023 16:50 , Louise Boyle

Earth is exceeding its safe operating space for humanity in six of nine key measurements of its health, and two of the remaining three are headed in the wrong direction, a new study said.

Earths climate, biodiversity, land, freshwater, nutrient pollution and novel chemicals (human-made compounds like microplastics and nuclear waste) are all out of whack, a group of international scientists said in Wednesdays journal Science Advances.

Only the acidity of the oceans, the health of the air and the ozone layer are within the boundaries considered safe, and both ocean and air pollution are heading in the wrong direction, the study said.

We are in very bad shape, said study co-author Johan Rockstrom, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany.

We show in this analysis that the planet is losing resilience and the patient is sick.

Earth is outside its safe operating space for humanity, study says

Why US floods are getting flashier

Thursday 14 September 2023 16:04 , Louise Boyle

Last year, The Independent explored why the United States is at risk of a future filled with flashier flash floods.

Read more below

Why US floods are getting flashier

New England faces a walloping (again)

Thursday 14 September 2023 15:49 , Louise Boyle

Hurricane Lee looks poised to wallop New England later this week even as the region still deals with the impact of days of wild weather that produced torrential rain, flooding, sinkholes and a likely tornado.

The looming arrival of the hurricane threatened to unleash more violent storms on a region that earlier in the week saw 10 inches (25 centimeters) of rainfall over six hours and on Wednesday saw communities in Massachusetts and Rhode Island deal with tornado warnings and more heavy rain that opened up sinkholes and brought devastating flooding to several areas. (AP)

The latest forecast on Hurricane Lee

Thursday 14 September 2023 15:11 , Louise Boyle

Hurricane Lee was pounding Bermuda with high winds and dangerous surf early on Thursday as conditions deteriorated along much of the US east coast.

The hurricane has winds nearing 100mph and is moving north near 12mph, with an increase in forward speed expected through Saturday.

A hurricane watch spanned the US-Canada border including parts of New England and up into Nova Scotia. The Category 2 storm expected to make landfall in Maine or Nova Scotia this weekend.

The center of Lee will pass west of Bermuda today and tonight, approach the coast of New England and Atlantic Canada Friday and Saturday, and move across Atlantic Canada on Saturday night and Sunday, the National Hurricane Center reported.

Forecasters warned of storm surge and tide leading to coastal and inland flooding. If peak storm surge occurs at high tide, parts of Cape Cod could see up to 4ft of flooding while Boston Harbor could experience up to 3ft.

And it wont just be in New England as parts of New York are also under threat. Montauk and the Long Island Sound could see up to 3ft of flooding along with Flushing in Queens, while the Rockaways could see 2ft.

Watch: Hurricane Lee advances towards US as warnings issued for New England

Thursday 14 September 2023 14:41 , Louise Boyle

Latest advisory from National Hurricane Center

Thursday 14 September 2023 12:30 , Stuti Mishra

Hurricane and tropical storm conditions are possible across portions of coastal New England and Atlantic Canada late Friday and Saturday, the National Hurricane Center said in its latest 5am advisory.

Storm surges and heavy rainfall is already battering Bermuda as the hurricane continues to move northward.

The storm was located about 370 miles (595 kilometres) south-southwest of Bermuda. It had winds of up to 105 miles per hour (165 kilometres per hour) and was moving north-northwest at 9mph (15kph).

Here are the key messages:

(National Hurricane Center)

Rhode Island governor asks people to keep an eye on updates

Thursday 14 September 2023 11:30 , Stuti Mishra

Rhode Island governor Dan McKee said on social media that the state's emergency operations centre was activated and would be monitoring the fast-changing weather conditions over the next few days.

"The best thing you can do right now: Stay tuned for frequent updates," Mr McKee said.

'Take the storm seriously,' authorities warn as heavy surf from Hurricane Lee pound Bermuda

Thursday 14 September 2023 10:30 , Stuti Mishra

The outer bands of Hurricane Lee have started to lash Bermuda, with the Category 2 storm expected to make landfall on the coast of New England or Atlantic Canada over the weekend.

The storm was located about 370miles (595km) south-southwest of Bermuda. It had winds of up to 105mph (165kph) and was moving north-northwest at 9mph (15kph).

Lee was expected to pass just west of Bermuda, prompting forecasters to issue a tropical storm warning for the island.

I cannot stress enough that we must all take this storm seriously, David Burch, acting national security minister, said in a press conference.

Where is Hurricane Lee currently?

Thursday 14 September 2023 09:30 , Stuti Mishra

Latest map from the National Hurricane Center shows Hurricane Lee swirling towards Bermuda after a northward turn.

The storm was located about 370 miles (595 kilometres) south-southwest of Bermuda. It had winds of up to 105mph (165kph) and was moving north-northwest at 9mph (15kph).

The storm is expected to impact New England as early as Friday.

(National Hurricane Center)

When will Hurricane Lee reach New England?

Thursday 14 September 2023 08:30 , Stuti Mishra

Hurricane Lees winds could begin to buffet portions of New England as early as Friday as the storms centre is expected to pass close to the regions southeast before barrelling near or over Maine and Atlantic Canada over the weekend as a large and dangerous cyclone, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Though the storm  now a Category 2 hurricane  is expected to weaken as it approaches, it will still have a massive radius of damaging winds that will be significantly felt along coastal New England and Canadas Atlantic provinces.

Hurricane conditions, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding are possible in portions of eastern Maine on Saturday, the National Hurricane Center said. The area is under a hurricane watch.

Life-threatening storm surge flooding could inundate parts of southeastern Massachusetts late Friday and Saturday, the agency said.

Tropical storm conditions expected in Bermuda 'in a few hours'

Thursday 14 September 2023 07:30 , Stuti Mishra

The National Hurricane Center has warned of tropical storm conditions in Bermuda in a few hours, in its latest advisory issued 2am ET.

The Hurricane could bring heavy rainfall and high tides to the island this morning, triggering localised flooding.

Here are the key messages from NHC:

Hurricane Lee advisory Thursday 14 September 2am (NHC)

Rain-soaked New England hit by likely tornado amid wild weather ahead of Hurricane Lee's arrival

Thursday 14 September 2023 06:37 , Stuti Mishra

Hurricane Lee barrelled north toward New England on Wednesday and threatened to unleash violent storms on the region just as Massachusetts and Rhode Island communities were dealing with tornado warnings and another day of heavy rain that opened up sinkholes and brought devastating flooding to several communities.

The National Hurricane Center issued a hurricane watch for portions of Maine. A tropical storm watch was issued for a large area of coastal New England from parts of Rhode Island to Stonington, Maine, including Block Island, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket.

The National Weather Service in Boston said that looking at radar data and videos it appears likely that a tornado toppled trees and knocked down power lines in Rhode Island and Connecticut on Wednesday.

Rob Megnia, a meteorologist with the weather service, said they received reports of about 20 trees down in Killingly, Connecticut, and trees and power lines down in Foster, Rhode Island.

The agency said it would survey the storm damage in both states on Thursday to help determine the tornado's strength, maximum wind speed and its path.

Emergency sirens could be heard late Wednesday afternoon in parts of Providence, Rhode Island, as cellphones pinged with a tornado warning.

One bumpy ride

Thursday 14 September 2023 04:59 , Louise Boyle

The 403rd Wing of the US Air Force Reserve Command, otherwise known as the Hurricane Hunters, shared a video of their aerial weather reconnaissance of Hurricane Lee this past weekend.

Sometimes #Hurricane flights can get a little bumpy.



Video by Tech. Sgt Nate Calloway, Sept. 8, into hurricane #Lee pic.twitter.com/PFSWrJvyEi  Hurricane Hunters (@53rdWRS) September 12, 2023

New England braces for more rain after hourslong downpour left communities flooded

Thursday 14 September 2023 04:02 , Louise Boyle

More heavy rain was in the forecast Wednesday in New England, where residents were cleaning up after downpours dropped nearly 10 inches (25 centimeters) of rain in six hours and flooded parts of Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

The rainfall was a 200-year event, said Matthew Belk, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Boston.

Two communities declared a state of emergency and officials ordered evacuations out of concern for a dam listed in poor condition.

Rain from Hurricane Lee didnt contribute to Mondays flooding but could inundate parts of the coastal Northeast during the weekend, forecasters said.

Read more

New England braces for more rain after hourslong downpour left communities flooded

What is Hurricane Lees cone of uncertainty?

Thursday 14 September 2023 03:00 , Louise Boyle

Hurricane Lee is tearing across the Atlantic bringing strong winds and dangerous currents to parts of the Caribbean, before it is expected to pivot and travel up the US East Coast, potentially making landfall in Nova Scotia, Canada on Sunday.

The National Hurricane Center graphic below shows the probable path of Hurricane Lee. Areas under a hurricane warning are marked in red; hurricane watch in pink; tropical storm warning in blue; and tropical storm watch in yellow. The orange circle shows the current position of the cyclones center.

However NHC tropical cyclone forecast tracks have room for error, the agency notes.

This uncertainty is conveyed by the track forecast cone - the solid white and stippled white areas in the graphic.

The solid white area depicts the track forecast uncertainty for days 1-3 of the forecast.

The stippled area depicts the uncertainty on days 4-5.

The entire five-day path of the center of the tropical cyclone will remain within the cone about 60-70 per cent of the time, according to historical data.

National Weather Service

Hurricane Lees cone of uncertainty (NOAA)

Peak Atlantic hurricane season

Thursday 14 September 2023 02:04 , Louise Boyle

Last Sunday was the climatological peak of Atlantic hurricane season with conditions ripe for tropical storms and hurricanes.

This week has seen considerable action with two hurricanes - Lee and Margot - currently swirling across the Atlantic.

At peak season, ocean waters are typically at their highest temperatures, and the shearing winds which suffocate storms decline to a minimum, creating the perfect conditions to generate powerful cyclones.

Rapid intensification of more storms likely as ocean waters warm

Thursday 14 September 2023 01:05 , Louise Boyle

Hurricane Lee is in rare company. Only two recorded storms  Hurricane Wilma in 2005 and Hurricane Felix in 2007  strengthened faster than Lee over a 24-hour period.

Lee developed from a Cat 1 to a Cat 5 last week before slowly weakening to its current Cat 2 status (although it remains a large and dangerous storm, according to the National Weather Service).

Brian McNoldy, from the University of Miami, told NBC News that warm conditions in the Atlantic were ripe for the storms rapid intensification.

The vertical wind shear was very low and the water temperature under it was very warm, he said. Lee took full advantage of both, he added.

In 2022, Hurricane Ian rapidly intensified over two separate periods before striking Florida as a Category 4 storm. Last Last month, Hurricane Idalia recently strengthened from Cat 1 to Cat 4 within 24 hours.

Its a huge problem, and the past is not a good guide to what we should expect going forward, Jeff Masters, a former hurricane scientist with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, told NBC.

Watch: Massachusetts city got nearly 10 inches of rain in 6 hours

Thursday 14 September 2023 00:02 , Louise Boyle

Not taking any chances'

Wednesday 13 September 2023 23:02 , Louise Boyle

While the most severe impacts of Hurricane Lee were forecast for New England and Atlantic Canada this weekend, New York Governor Kathy Hochul said that she is not taking any chances and deploying the National Guard.

Its too early to predict how Hurricane Lee will impact New York, but were not taking any chances, Governor Hochul posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Ive deployed [the New York National Guard] on Long Island & directed agencies to prepare emergency response assets. Please watch the forecast & be ready to act, if necessary, to stay safe.

It's too early to predict how Hurricane Lee will impact New York, but we're not taking any chances.



I've deployed @NationalGuardNY on Long Island & directed agencies to prepare emergency response assets. Please watch the forecast & be ready to act, if necessary, to stay safe.  Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) September 12, 2023

Watch: Hurricane Lee inches closer to New England

Wednesday 13 September 2023 22:33 , Louise Boyle

What to know about renters insurance and what it does and doesnt cover

Wednesday 13 September 2023 22:02 , Louise Boyle

When the unexpected happens  whether fire, hail, or human error  renters insurance can provide much-needed stability.

But many choose not to purchase coverage, including in places most frequently and hardest hit by natural disasters, new research shows.

Read more

What to know about renters insurance and what it does and doesn't cover

Watch: How does Hurricane Lee compare to past hurricanes that have struck New England?

Wednesday 13 September 2023 21:29 , Louise Boyle

US sets record for billion-dollar weather disasters in a year  and theres still 4 months to go

Wednesday 13 September 2023 21:00 , Louise Boyle

The deadly firestorm in Hawaii and Hurricane Idalias surge helped push the United States to a record number of weather disasters that cost $1 billion or more in 2023. And theres still four months to go on whats looking more like a calendar of calamities.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced Monday that there have been 23 weather extreme events in America that cost at least $1 billion this year through August, eclipsing the year-long record total of 22 set in 2020. So far this years disasters have cost more than $57.6 billion and claimed at least 253 lives.

And NOAAs count doesnt yet include Tropical Storm Hilarys damages in hitting California and a deep drought that has struck the South and Midwest because those costs are still to be totaled, said Adam Smith, the NOAA applied climatologist and economist who tracks the billion-dollar disasters.

Read more

US sets record for billion-dollar weather disasters in a year -- and there's still 4 months to go

US sets record for billion-dollar weather disasters in a year  and theres still four months to go

Wednesday 13 September 2023 15:00 , Martha McHardy

The deadly firestorm in Hawaii and Hurricane Idalias watery storm surge helped push the United States to a record for the number of weather disasters that cost $1 billion or more. And theres still four months to go on whats looking more like a calendar of calamities.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced on Monday that there have been 23 weather extreme events in America that cost at least $1 billion this year through August, eclipsing the year-long record total of 22 set in 2020. So far this years disasters have cost more than $57.6 billion and claimed at least 253 lives.

And NOAAs count doesnt yet include Tropical Storm Hilarys damages in hitting California and a deep drought that has struck the South and Midwest because those costs are still to be totaled, said Adam Smith, the NOAA applied climatologist and economist who tracks the billion-dollar disasters.

Read more:

US sets record for billion-dollar weather disasters in a year -- and there's still 4 months to go
Kunal Shah is the Senior Technical and Derivative Analyst at LKP Securities. He has over 9 years of experience in the field of derivative markets. He is an MBA graduate with specializations in finance.
Abhishek Mukherjee is News Editor - Business at Moneycontrol. He writes on markets, economy and the fragility of human experience.
The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors unanimously agreed that county government was failing to keep renters safe from harassment before four out of five of the elected officials declined to vote Tuesday on a proposed tenant anti-harassment ordinance, ensuring the measure would die.

The board decided to put on a future workshop about tenant protection resources in the county.

Supervisor Patrick Kennedy, who proposed the ordinance, said he was inspired to do so after visiting a large apartment complex and seeing the mostly immigrant tenants paying upwards of $2,000 a month to live in squalor. While he was at the complex meeting with his constituents, he said, I witnessed, myself, harassment.

Kennedy  who represents south Sacramento, the Pocket, Vineyard and other parts of unincorporated Sacramento County north of Calvine Road and east of Excelsior Road  submitted a new county ordinance to give renters in unincorporated parts of the county more tools to defend themselves against landlord harassment.

After two hours of public comment and board deliberations, Kennedy moved to vote on the item. His four colleagues declined to second the motion.

The majority of public commenters spoke in favor of the change to local law, which some described as a matter of life and death. Many renters said they had dealt with landlord harassment themselves, and some told the board detailed stories of abuse.

A small handful of individual landlords and a representative from the California Apartment Association  which represents owners  and the Sacramento Realtors Association  which represents Realtors and property owners, and says it fights onerous legislation  spoke against the ordinance, saying it would unfairly harm innocent landlords.

Some also said the local change would duplicate state law and therefore be redundant.

The ordinance would have, among other things, allowed tenants to win $2,000 to $5,000 per violation from their harassing landlord in a civil case. Under state tenant harassment law, landlord liability is capped at $2,000 per violation.

Story continues

The question is, why are industry groups coming out here to oppose this? asked Ethan Silverstein, an attorney for ACCE Institute who litigates tenants rights cases.

I dont think these big players are afraid of the $2,000 fine, he told the board. In Sacramento County, the attorney explained, Theres essentially two eviction defense lawyers. There are basically no private lawyers who will take cases out here. So the culture is if youre a landlord or a property manager, you can do whatever you want and get away with it. What they are afraid of is showing the tenants in these rooms that they can change the situation. Theyre not afraid of the fine. Theyre afraid of the tenants organizing.

Yvette Veiga, a certified nursing assistant who rents out an accessory dwelling unit



on her property to two tenants, said that she, too, was a mom-and-pop landlord  but she supported the ordinance. She has disabled clients who can barely get in and out of their apartments because their own landlords wont fix accessibility issues.

Addressing the board, Veiga said, The only people I feel that would oppose this are the people who want to slack and cheat and connive.

Commenter criticizes landlords influence

Keyan Bliss, a renter who serves on the Sacramento Community Police Review Commission, pointed out that members of the board had accepted donations from industry groups opposing the ordinance.

Campaign finance disclosures confirm that every member of the Board of Supervisors has received financial support from the California Apartment Association.

Between December 2019 and October 2020, the California Apartment Association made two $2,500 contributions to elect board chair Rich Desmond. Supervisor Phil Serna, who represents much of the city of Sacramento, received a $1,000 donation from a local chapter of the association in 2018. The California Apartment Association gave outgoing Supervisor Sue Frost $1,000 in 2016, $150 in 2019 and $2,350 in 2020. In 2022, Supervisor Patrick Hume received $5,000 from the California Apartment Association.

Kennedy, who brought forth the ordinance, has received $3,500 from the landlord group that lobbied against his proposal.

People are dying

In explaining why he couldnt support the ordinance, Serna said he thought the language was too vague. But he said he seconded Desmonds request for a workshop to go over the existing resources in the county before the end of the year.

Erica Jaramillo, an organizer with the Sacramento Tenants Union, told the board that existing resources were inadequate, and the county had divested from tenant protection efforts. One such spending choice came in 2014, when the Board of Supervisors became the final government body to defund the Regional Human Rights/Fair Housing Commission, which had provided attorneys to tenants in landlord disputes.

Serna said he would potentially be willing to make midyear adjustments to the budget if necessary because the need for change seemed pressing.

Shalonda Barksdale agreed that the matter was urgent. She told The Sacramento Bee that her apartment complex is essentially a slum, and she and her neighbors cant get their landlord to make critical repairs. Other tenants, she said, are too afraid to complain to outside authorities because they worry the property manager will simply evict them in retaliation.

Barksdale was hospitalized for heat stroke last summer after her air conditioner broke and the property manager would not fix it. She said that tenants desperately need more protections in Sacramento County.

Its just not right, she said. People are dying, man.
Khyati Dharamsi is covering personal finance for the past 15 years. Taxation, insurance, mutual funds and gold are her areas of focus.
Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day
Daily and weekly insights bundled and sent to your inbox to keep you ahead in the race.

Exclusive access to live webinars from market experts on trading and investment strategies

Have a Global edge with access to content from world renowned experts and journalist

Access to 230+ exclusive stories per month from our editorial and Experts

Limited Period offer on Moneycontrol PRO. Subscribe to PRO and get up to

Access the exclusive stories, weekly investment ideas and daily technical calls in an Ad free experience

In this edition of Moneycontrol Pro Panorama: How Cipla built a billion-dollar business in US, Indias economic ascent explained...

SoftBank, one of Indias most prolific late-stage investors, and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board are evaluating an investment in upskilling and higher education platform Eruditus potential secondary funding round, people aware of the matter told Moneycontrol. Eruditus is looking to raise about $120-150 million in a mix of new financing and secondary fund infusion with half of it expected to be a secondary component, the people said requesting anonymity. Moneycontrol previously reported about this development in July. Unlike a primary fund injection,...

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is hoping that he could be back in action next month.

The Ghana international injured his groin last month just before the international break, forcing him to miss the Gunners dramatic 3-1 Premier League win over Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium.

Partey was duly left out of Ghanas squad for their games against Central African Republic and Liberia over the past week, instead beginning his recovery with Arsenal.

The 30-year-old is hopeful that he could be back playing in October, but his progress will be monitored closely and Arsenal will not rush his return.

Comeback trail: Mohamed Elneny and Thomas Partey could soon be back in Arsenal action (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

The club are hoping to be boosted by the return of fellow midfielder Mohamed Elneny at some stage soon too as he has now returned to training.

The Egyptian injured his knee in January and was forced to undergo surgery, which ended his 2022/23 season prematurely.

Given that he has been out for nine months, Arsenal are carefully getting Elneny up to speed and they have not set a definitive return date for him yet.

The club are in Carabao Cup action later this month though, when they travel to London rivals Brentford in the third round on the 27th, and that could be an ideal moment for the veteran to make his comeback.
Vidya Sagar Reddy is a research analyst on outer space affairs. He tracks Indian, Chinese and American space activities. Vidya has published book chapters and research articles in the Astropolitics and NewSpace journals. He also provided analyses for The Space Review, SpaceNews, East Asia Forum and DNA. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication.
Daily and weekly insights bundled and sent to your inbox to keep you ahead in the race.

Exclusive access to live webinars from market experts on trading and investment strategies

Have a Global edge with access to content from world renowned experts and journalist

Access to 230+ exclusive stories per month from our editorial and Experts

Limited Period offer on Moneycontrol PRO. Subscribe to PRO and get up to

Access the exclusive stories, weekly investment ideas and daily technical calls in an Ad free experience

In this edition of Moneycontrol Pro Panorama: How Cipla built a billion-dollar business in US, Indias economic ascent explained...

Securities and Exchange Board of India, on 16th September 2022, passed an order levying a stiff penalty along with debarment in a case involving, among others, allegedly synchronised trades. Soon thereafter, in June 2023, the Securities Appellate Tribunal rejected appeals against the order in an almost dismissive way. What is noteworthy is that SEBI has shown it means business in such cases. The penalty levied is fairly large, considering the facts and figures of the case, apart from the...

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Daily and weekly insights bundled and sent to your inbox to keep you ahead in the race.

Exclusive access to live webinars from market experts on trading and investment strategies

Have a Global edge with access to content from world renowned experts and journalist

Access to 230+ exclusive stories per month from our editorial and Experts

Limited Period offer on Moneycontrol PRO. Subscribe to PRO and get up to

Access the exclusive stories, weekly investment ideas and daily technical calls in an Ad free experience

In this edition of Moneycontrol Pro Panorama: How Cipla built a billion-dollar business in US, Indias economic ascent explained...

Indias growth story has been resilient even in the face of global volatility. Its capital markets too have demonstrated fortitude, backed in good measure by a steady build-up of domestic pools of capital. Strong investor confidence can be seen in secondary markets but is pronounced in IPOs as new and interesting ideas are getting listed. From January 1, 2020 to June 30, 2023, there have been 127 main board listings, raising an aggregate of 2.1 lakh crore (US$ 26...

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Kemo Montique's application for permanent residency is being re-examined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. Last month, the agency had rejected his application, and ordered him to leave Canada. His application was rejected, while his family's was approved. (Submitted by Kemo Montique - image credit)

Canada is deferring the deportation of a 27-year-old man who came to the country as a child and who was rejected for permanent residency, even though the rest of his family was accepted.

"I'm so relieved," said Kemo Montique, who got the news on Tuesday. "I feel like things are pointing in the right direction."

CBC Toronto covered the case last week.

In 2007, Montique moved to the Greater Toronto Area from Jamaica at age 11, when his parents brought him and his two siblings over on a visitor's visa, to join loved-ones already in Canada. That visa expired when Montique was a teenager and unaware of the family's precarious immigration status, he previously told CBC Toronto.

Despite having no ties to Jamaica or relatives there, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) notified him on Aug. 2 that his application for permanent residency under humanitarian and compassionate grounds was rejected.

Montique was ordered to leave Canada, even though his family had their application to remain in Canada approved under the same grounds.

Lawyer confused as to why application initially rejected

Daniel Kingwell, Montique's lawyer, told CBC Toronto that IRCC agreed to reopen his application Tuesday. His deportation has been delayed at least a month while it re-examines the application, said Kingwell.

Canada Border Services Agency also informed Montique that his scheduled end-of-September removal was cancelled, said Kingwell. He and Montique are now going to wait a month to see if the permanent residency application is approved.

Kemo Montique (centre), is pictured with friends at a restaurant. The 27-year-old is facing deportation despite living in Canada since 2007.

Kemo Montique (centre), is pictured with friends at a restaurant. The 27 year old has lived in Canada since 2007. (Submitted by Kemo Montique)

"They've done the right thing here," said Kingwell. But he said it was confusing why the application was rejected in the first place. He has requested the IRCC send its reasons for rejecting the application, but he hasn't received them.

Story continues

The IRCC reiterated what it said last week: that it an't comment on specific cases due to privacy legislation.

Last week, the IRCC also said any decisions to remove an individual from Canada is not done so "lightly."

However, the deferral of the deportation is a "big turning point" in the case, said Kingwell.

"Better late than never," he said. "The fact they've agreed to reopen it and stop his removal, hopefully he's home-free at this point, but we will see."

While optimistic, Montique said he doesn't feel he's out of the woods yet.

"I feel a bit overwhelmed," said Montique. The IRCC's decision to re-examine ordering his deportation has made him feel the initial order was arbitrarily made.

"I'm very disappointed they can't give a straight reason of why it was refused," he said. "I just feel like the application was taken very lightly."

Last week, Kingwell and Adrienne Smith, a Toronto immigration lawyer, told CBC Toronto that Montique's case raises larger concerns about consistency, especially when a single member of an entire family was rejected.

Montique's family applied for permanent residency together while he applied separately due to poor advice from an immigration consultant, Montique had said.
ST. JOHN'S, N.L.  A retired Ontario health inspector says reports from inmates and judges about rodents at Newfoundland's largest jail suggest an "extreme" and long-standing infestation.

Marilyn Lee, professor emeritus at Toronto Metropolitan University's School of Occupational and Public Health, was taken aback in a recent interview by reports of rodents biting and climbing over inmates as they slept at Her Majesty's Penitentiary in St. John's. She said the outbreak at the aging facility poses serious health concerns for guards and inmates.

"Prisoners or whoever, they shouldn't have to put up with something like a rodent infestation, no matter what the species is," said Lee, who inspected stores, restaurants and correctional facilities in Ontario in the 1980s.

Her Majesty's Penitentiary first opened in 1859, though it has seen several upgrades and overhauls. Its crumbling, outdated infrastructure is well documented, as are its rampant problems with rodents.

A ruling last year from a provincial court judge includes details about a 25-year-old inmate who was bitten by a rodent while he was sleeping. "He observed what appeared to be teeth marks in the wound," Judge Jacqueline Brazil wrote, adding that the penitentiary nurse agreed the bite was likely from a rodent.

Lee was particularly struck by this incident.

"It would have to be a huge infestation" for a rodent to bite someone unprovoked, she said, adding that she encountered just one instance of a rodent biting someone in six years of health inspecting.

Rats are more likely to bite than mice, and they can cause an illness called rat bite fever, Lee said. She pointed to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control's website, which says rat bite fever can cause "severe disease and death" if left untreated.

The bitten inmate at Her Majesty's Penitentiary was given antibiotics, Brazil said in her ruling.

Story continues

The Canadian Press spoke with several inmates last month who said mice scurry around at all hours of the day. One said they climbed over his body as he slept on the concrete floor, trying to escape the aging facility's stifling heat. Another inmate said mouse droppings spill out of the vents when air blows through.

"That's pretty extreme, that's a really bad infestation," Lee said in response to their stories. "Especially if they're seeing rodents during the day."

The inmates also described a heavy, permeating smell of rodent urine, which Lee agreed was unmistakable. Forcing people to live among that scent, she said, is "unacceptable."

Rodents carry a host of diseases in their saliva, urine and feces, Lee said. The most common risk from mice and rats is salmonella. They can also spread hantavirus, though Canada typically sees fewer than five cases each year, she said.

The provincial Justice Department said professional pest control companies visit the jail regularly.

"The department takes the responsibility of having inmates in our care very seriously," it said in an emailed statement on Tuesday. "Infrastructure issues present a challenge at (Her Majesty's Penitentiary), and as a department, we are working with the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure to address maintenance concerns as they arise."

The Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission gets a steady stream of phone calls from inmates at the penitentiary about issues including the heat inside the cells and rodents running across the floors, said Carey Majid, the agency's executive director.

Complaints about conditions inside the jail fall outside the commission's mandate, which was set up to enforce the province's Human Rights Act. The act deals with discrimination based on protected grounds, such as race, nationality and gender identity.

However, Majid said staff at the Human Rights Commission will bring the inmates' complaints to the province's citizens' representative, which acts as a provincewide ombudsperson for people who feel they were treated unfairly by government offices and agencies. When it can, the commission works with the citizens' representative to have complaints addressed, she said in a recent interview.

Majid has visited the penitentiary several times. She questioned whether many of the inmates need to be incarcerated, adding that it costs more to put someone through the justice system than to provide them with the social services that may have kept them out of jail in the first place.

"You think about legal aid, judges, (incarceration) costs, policing costs," she said. "And really what that person needs is mental health support and good, stable, secure housing or addiction support."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 14, 2023.

Sarah Smellie, The Canadian Press
Rodrigo Bentancur today joined his Tottenham team-mates in their warm-up routines ahead of training as the midfielder took the next step towards his return to action.

The Uruguay international has not played since rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his knee in February and remains on course for a return in November, as manager Ange Postecoglou recently outlined.

Bentancur has not yet returned to training with Spurs, but took part in a few warm-up drills on Thursday alongside the likes of Cristian Romero and Emerson Royal before returning to individual work.

Romeros involvement is further good news for Postecoglou after a brief scare during the international break amid reports of an injury picked up in the 1-0 win over Ecuador, in which the Argentina centre-back was named man of the match.

Son Heung-min fit and underway in training after an injury scare during the international break  pic.twitter.com/Kr8ieDwVPI  Football Daily (@footballdaily) September 14, 2023

However, days later, Romero again played the full 90 minutes of a 3-0 win away in Bolivia.

Also involved at Hotspur Way was Heung-min Son, who also was the subject of fitness concerns after being spotted with an ice pack strapped to his right knee while with South Korea. However, the forward played almost the entirety of the 1-0 win over Saudi Arabia the following day.

Spurs face Sheffield United on Saturday looking for a fourth win on the trot in the Premier League.
True Religion is extending its international reach with a far-reaching expansion plan entailing a mix of freestanding and in-store shops in Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

New markets will be India, Indonesia, South Korea, the Philippines, South Africa, Lebanon and Qatar, bringing True Religion to a total of 26 markets outside the U.S.

More from WWD

Locations will open this fall in Mumbai, Jakarta, Manila and Johannesburg, and in spring 2024, in Shanghai, Beijing and Seoul.

The disclosure this week follows True Religions announcement in March 2023 that the business would enter China by partnering with the Aurorae Group.

Global expansion into high growth markets, anchored by our expansion into China, remains a key strategy for us for the near future, said Michael Buckley, True Religions chief executive officer. Predominantly, its going to be freestanding stores, ranging in size from 1,000 to 2,000 square feet. Shop-in-shops through wholesaling with multibrand retailers will occupy a few hundred square feet in size.

The freestanding overseas stores will be licensed, providing True Religion with a royalty stream, while retail operations in America, Canada and the U.K. are company-owned.

Partners overseas include Samarth in India, Mitra Adiperkasa in Indonesia, the Aishti Group in Lebanon, Marcalec in Italy, and Corpus Callosum in South Africa.

In the works are 10 freestanding stores, two each in Indonesia and India as well as China, and one freestanding store each in Philippines, Korea, the Middle East and South Africa. Two shops-in-shop are planned, in the Middle East and in Indonesia.

In Asia, the Middle East and Africa, True Religion already has a total of 26 shops-in-shop and 11 freestanding stores.

Overseas, all stores will carry True Religions core collections for men and women along with key items, locally curated to appeal to specific market preferences. The offering of sizes will also vary depending on the region.

Story continues

On the domestic front, earlier this month, True Religion opened its first new store since 2019, a 2,000-square-foot shop in Atlantas Cumberland Mall. Its the brands 46th store in the U.S.

The Cumberland store features new visual merchandising, with updated fixtures to enhance the shopping experience. Features include new denim tables and half-body forms in a range of sizes. There are also new light boxes to highlight core denim pieces and their details, and the cabinetry for belts and handbags has been redesigned.

For True Religion  the American denim and sportswear brand with its heavily embroidered jeans, signature stitching and emblem of a smiling Buddha strumming a guitar  Atlanta is a logical destination. The brand has had several collaborations with Atlanta-based talents, including recording artist 2Chainz, as well as artist and designer Bluboy. The brand is celebrating its 21st birthday by going back to its hip-hop roots with collaborations with Atlanta-based rappers Lil Gnar and Kaliii.

Based on tracking data through the direct-to-consumer channel, as well as conducting very detailed consumer surveys every year, the company has a good read on where its shoppers are, Buckley said. Where this customer is, is where we want to open physical retail, he said. Theres probably 30 to 40 more locations across the country that mirror the Atlanta market and fit into the demographic we have. We have a list. But we are a crawl before you walk before you run kind of company. But we could roll out five, 10 stores a year if we wanted, in select markets.

While store growth, domestically and overseas, is on the agenda, The big growth drivers that are going to get us from where we are now to $500 million in volume over the next three or four years, are really our e-commerce business which is heavily focused on North America, and our North American wholesale business, where we have a major footprint. Then those are followed by retail and international, said Buckley.

True Religions e-commerce, said Buckley, represents nearly 40 percent of the business, and is seen growing to 50 percent or more.

Stores are still important but the reality is consumers are buying more and more online, said Buckley. People are just more comfortable going online, once they know a brand, their size, and can see the full collection of product versus having to get out to a store. With the pandemic, there was enormous growth in e-commerce and even into 2021. Its kind of getting back to lets say pre-pandemic-type growth levels.

Long-term, the CEO sees True Religions international business representing between 10 and 20 percent of the total revenues, from the current 7 to 8 percent. China will absolutely be the biggest international market for us, with Western Europe, the second biggest, Buckley said.

We remain a digital-first direct-to-consumer brand and are excited to begin adding more physical stores to our mix in the right markets said Buckley.

True Religion in Atlanta.

Best of WWD

Click here to read the full article.
Peggy Araullo Llagas, Guam Association of Realtors CEO, speaks before the Rotary Club of Tumon Bay Tuesday Sept. 12, 2023 at the Hyatt Regency Guam in Tumon.
U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks to service members, first responders, and their families on the day of the 22nd anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, September 11, 2023. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/File Photo
Mitt Romney to retire from US Senate after wild ride through Republican politics
Governor of New Mexico Michelle Lujan Grisham speaks at a Democratic Party of New Mexico campaign rally featuring U.S. President Joe Biden at the Gallegos Community Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico, U.S., November 3, 2022. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque/File Photo
Sen Frank Blas Jr. asks a question about an amendment during budget hearings Tuesday Aug. 29, 2023 in the Session Hall of the Guam Congress Building in Hagatna.
Zaldy Dandan is a recipient of the Best Editorial Writer Award of the Society of Professional Journalists, and the CNMI Humanities Award for Outstanding Contributions to Journalism. His four books are available on amazon.com/.
There are several events planned for the weekend of September 16th and 17th.

First, the Quilts & Threads Show will be at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds in the John Muir Building starting Friday from 10 am to 5 pm and continuing on Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.

The Girl Scouts will be hosting a family information night and Ice Cream Social Friday at the Sonora Library. Also on Friday at 2pm the Discover Tuolumne Businesses Series will be touring Sierra Biosystems.

The biggest Groveland event kicks-off at 9 am on Saturday, the 49er Festival and Chili Cook-Off. The event includes a parade on Main Street and activities in Mary Laveroni Park.

Discover Life Church in Sonora is holding their 4th annual Life Hope Clinic this Saturday and Sunday. The free health clinic is offering dental, medical, and vision services. No insurance or identification is required.

Saturday enjoy a Seminar titled More Facts and Folklore of Calaveras Big Trees. The event will be held at the park starting at 10 am.

The Friends of the Animal Community (FOAC) are hosting an Adoption Event this Saturday.

Dan McHoul Memorial Car Show and Toy Drive will feature cars on Downtown Main Street Saturday in Jamestown. Donations of new unwrapped toys go to CHiPs for Kids. Also in Jamestown is the Music in the Park Saturday at 6 pm with the band Soundhouse.

If you are in the Murphys area keep an eye out for Corvettes. The Nor Cal Vettes from Sacramento and the valley will meet in Stockton and then head to Copperopolis and Murphys.

The 25th Annual Cancer Support Softball Tournament is also all day this Saturday at Copello Park in Angels Camp.

A Saturday fundraiser to support the Friends of the Tuolumne County Libraries (FOTCL) will feature the Rod Harris Big Band, with its unique style of jazz and swing dance music at Inner Sanctum Base Camp off Parrotts Ferry Road. Details on the Jazz/Swing Music Library Fundraiser are here.

Help support the Gold Country Young Farmers & Ranchers and local agriculture at the annual dinner fundraiser in Angels Camp, the 2023 Brew and Ball Crawl.

The last performances of the emotional two-person musical The Last Five Years by Jason Robert Brown, will be presented by Murphys Creek Theatre this Friday and Saturday at 7:30 pm.

Sierra Repertory Theaters performances of Misery continue at the East Sonora Theater through September 24. A blog about the show is here. The performances are Thursday at 2 pm, Friday at 7 pm, Saturday at 2 pm and 7 pm, and Sunday at 2 pm.

The Sonora Farmers Market continues Saturday mornings through until October 8th. Friday evenings is the Peaceful Valley Farmers Market until October 13 and the Friday Angels Camp Farmers Market will feature The Darcel Trio from 5 -8 pm.

A garage sale is listed in our Classifieds section here.

Over 40 artists will be displaying their paintings, pottery, photography and sculpture on the shady streets of Columbia State Historic Park during Saturdays 49th annual Columbia Fine Art Show Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm.

Sunday support Sonora High School students at their ASB Car Wash to raise money for the upcoming Homecoming festivities at the end of the month. Details are in the event listing here.

Railtown 1897 Historic State Park is open, enjoy the view from our several local webcams here, check out the movie times at local theaters, and the weather forecast is here.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called top public officials to a high-level meeting today to map out Zimbabwes development pathway under his second term in office.

The meeting will bring together Cabinet ministers, deputy ministers, permanent secretaries, chief executive officers, and chairpersons of parastatals and local authorities. According to Permanent Secretary Solomon Mhlanga, it aims to set the administrations strategic direction as Mnangagwa kicks off another stint at the helm.

Mnangagwa initially rose to power in 2017 following Robert Mugabes ouster. He has sought to turn Zimbabwes fortunes around after years of economic turmoil and strengthen state institutions. His government unveiled Vision 2030, which targets upper-middle income status by that year.

While progress has been slow, Mnangagwas re-election offers continuity. The mass gathering of government leadership is unprecedented and underscores his hands-on leadership style. It presents an opportunity to align diverse stakeholders behind a unified agenda.

In his inauguration speech, Mnangagwa pledged to serve all citizens with integrity, accelerate living standard upgrades especially in rural areas, and build on initiatives from his first term. Areas like agriculture, infrastructure and poverty reduction will feature prominently.

Efficient implementation across ministries and state bodies will be critical. Macroeconomic stability, respect for the rule of law and improved governance are also seen as important for attracting investment and broader support that Zimbabwes development aspirations depend on.

By rallying top managers around clear national priorities, analysts say todays meeting could strengthen policy coherence. Success will rely on overcoming entrenched social and economic challenges that have long held the country back.

Breaking News via Email
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has sworn-in three new Deputy Ministers today. The appointments were made after Mnangagwa and his ruling ZANU-PF party won national elections, securing a fresh mandate to govern for the next five years.

The swearing-in event was witnessed by Zimbabwes Vice Presidents, Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi. In forming his Cabinet, President Mnangagwa aimed to blend experienced ministers with newcomers, after defeating opposition candidate and main challenger Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens Coalition for Change on August 23. The addition of three Deputy Ministers is intended to further strengthen the government and support the work of Cabinet Ministers.

Those sworn in during a ceremony at State House in Harare include Joshua Sacco, Simelisizwe Sibanda, and Kudakwashe Mpamhanga. Mr Sacco will serve as Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development. Sibanda becomes Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education Innovation Science and Technology Development. Mr Mpamhanga is the new Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment and Development.

Breaking News via Email
The United States has donated four state-of-the-art Bell 412EP helicopters to Zambia to boost its capabilities in peacekeeping, disaster response and humanitarian assistance.

Worth approximately $80 million (1.6 billion Kwacha), the helicopters are advanced aircraft that can perform vital missions. Along with the aircraft, the U.S. is providing three years of training to Zambian personnel so they can fully utilize the new equipment.

The donation was announced by General Michael Langley, commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM). He explained that the helicopters will allow Zambia to more effectively contribute to United Nations peacekeeping missions across Africa. Peacekeeping plays an important role in reducing violence and establishing stability in many conflict-affected areas on the continent. However, peace operations often face challenges like lack of airlift capacity. The new helicopters should help address such challenges by transporting peacekeepers and supplies more quickly.

General Langley noted the helicopters can also respond to natural disasters or help mitigate the effects of climate change in Zambia and neighbouring countries. Climate change is exacerbating problems in many African nations by fuelling more extreme weather and agricultural difficulties. The ability to rapidly assess damage and deliver aid after disasters could save lives.

Zambia Army boss Lieutenant General Sitali Alibuzwi expressed gratitude for the donation and training. He acknowledged Zambia has partnerships with various countries to strengthen cooperation on shared goals. International collaboration is vital for addressing issues that transcend borders, like terrorism, pandemics and climate change. It helps pool resources and fosters cultural understanding between allies.

Click here for more details

Breaking News via Email
This is Naked Capitalism fundraising week. 862 donors have already invested in our efforts to combat corruption and predatory conduct, particularly in the financial realm. Please join us and participate via our donation page, which shows how to give via check, credit card, debit card or PayPal or our new payment processor, Clover. Read about why were doing this fundraiser, what weve accomplished in the last year,, and our current goal, rewarding our guest bloggers.

In a key bit of synchronicity, two events took place in close succession that show that the Biden plan to run for 2024 is on the ropes. The first was that the White House counsels office sent letters to major press outlets pressuring effectively directing them to treat the impeachment inquiry as a lie. Mind you, this media meddling comes after the Biden Administration lost its fight against a preliminary injunction, both at the trail court and appeals court level, against its campaign to influence social media platforms not to publish what it deemed to be misinformation. If you read Matt Taibbis Twitter files revelations, that campaign was light touch compared to this letter.

But the fact that it was Democratic Party fixture CNN that was first to public about the Biden Administration narrative control campaign was a sign that a weakened and desperate Administration had overplayed its hand. Well return to the letter later in the post because there are other ways in which it was extremely irregular.

But the big bombshell is the David Ignatius oped in the Washington Post telling Biden not to run again and even going so far as to tell Harris to step aside too. Tellingly, the article was not paywalled:

The significance is not that Ignatiius sticks the shiv in as nicely as possible, spending paragraphs signaling his regret at having to recommend against Biden 2024 despite Ignatius view that Biden has been a successful and effective president. Its due to Igantius status as whisperer in chief for the surveillance-intelligence industrial complex. Remember, for instance, that Anthony Blinken gave an interview to Ignatius in January in which Blinken effectively committed the US to an open-ended war in Ukraine.

This Fox segment (yes, I know Fox) which ran there as Jesse Watters: Biden has done his job according to the Democrats, does a good job of describing the CIAs relationship to the US press and Ignatius in particular:

And if you think Waters is peddling fevered right wing swamp ideas, think again:

Ignatius is long known as Langleys mouthpiece so this is more like an official declaration than mere opinion https://t.co/MUNvBsjyZL  Mark Ames (@MarkAmesExiled) September 13, 2023

The fact that Ignatius then delivered the same message on MSNBCs Morning Joe, as to the most loyal of Democratic Party loyalists, means theres no mistaking that the its now open season on Joe Biden.

"Is Biden the person who can stop Trump, or somebody like Trump, who gets the Republican nomination? He's got a look in the mirror and make that decision."  @IgnatiusPost on the critical decision Biden faces running for a second term https://t.co/ONpKEalkdF  Morning Joe (@Morning_Joe) September 13, 2023

I do see a fair number of tweets pushing back against Ignatiusnot getting much in the way of retweets. Single digits to at most triple digits. Underwhelming.

As we indicated at the top, the Biden Administration sent a letter to major press organizations that had a cornered look about it. The fact that CNN decided to turn its receipt of the letter into a reported story was a signal that the press is not about to be pushed around this way, even though the text of the article feigns an intent to comply. From White House sends letter to news execs urging outlets to ramp up scrutiny of GOPs Biden impeachment inquiry based on lies:

The White House sent a letter to top US news executives on Wednesday, urging them to intensify their scrutiny of House Republicans after Speaker Kevin McCarthy launched an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden, despite having found no evidence of a crime. Its time for the media to ramp up its scrutiny of House Republicans for opening an impeachment inquiry based on lies, Ian Sams, a spokesperson for the White House Counsels Office, wrote in the letter, which was first obtained by CNN. The letter, which said an impeachment inquiry with no supporting evidence should set off alarm bells for news organizations, was sent to executives helming the nations largest news organizations, including CNN, The New York Times, Fox News, the Associated Press, CBS News, and others, a White House official familiar with the matter said.

One can take issue with the no evidence of a crime which apparently hinges on the supposed lack of a connection between Hunter Biden enrichment and Biden pere use of influence. Among other things, we have the IRS whistleblowers plus fired Ukraine prosector who had Burisma in his corruption investigation crosshairs, Viktor Shokin, who in recent interviews fingered Biden. The White House is trying to depict this as a dead letter, but the absence of (past) evidence is not evidence of absence. Remember that one of the reasons for elevating the visibility of the Congressional investigation by turning it into an impeachment inquiry is that the Administration has refused to comply with many information requests.

Nevertheless, CNN puts the first of the next two paragraphs in its own voice:

While news organizations have published innumerable fact checks on the matter, they have also often failed to robustly call out the mis- and disinformation peddled by Republicans in their coverage, frustrating officials in the Biden White House who believe that the news media should be doing more to dispel lies that saturate the public discourse. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy speaks during a media availability to announce support for an impeachment In its letter Wednesday, the White House asked news organizations to be more clear-eyed in their coverage of the impeachment inquiry, and not to fall prey to the traps of false equivalency in reporting.

After many uncritically repeating Biden Administration howlers, from declaring that the vaccines would prevent you from getting and transmitting Covid to the continuing pretense that Ukraine can prevail against Russia, one can hardly depict the mainstream media as having been hard on the White House, or even unfair by omission.

One might also surmise that this letter went out to major press organs because the preliminary injunction over the Administration muscling social media outlets over alleged misinformation means it cant try to influence their fact checking right now.

Jonathan Turley called out the White House letter, and in particular, the role of the adviser to the White House counsel,1 who sent the letter, in Marching Orders: White House Letter Tells Media To Ramp Up Their Scrutiny In Response to Impeachment Inquiry:

I have previously written how the level of advocacy and bias has created a danger of a de facto state media in the United States. It is possible to have such a system by consent rather than coercion. Given that long concern, a letter drafted by the Biden White House Legal Counsels Office was striking in a call for major media to ramp up their scrutiny of House Republicans for opening an impeachment inquiry based on lies. First, as I have previously noted, the White House is now actively involved in pushing narratives and denying factual allegations linked to the Biden corruption scandal. That could create Nixonian-type allegations of the abuse of office in the use of federal employees to counter impeachment efforts. Second, the letter was drafted by Ian Sams, a spokesperson for the White House Counsels Office. So White House lawyers are now enlisting the media in a counter media campaign against impeachment? Third, the letter calls for the media to actively support the White House account.

Turley quotes the White House letter as demonizing the opposition press as purveyors of falsehoods,2 and points out the obvious:

The letter has an uncomfortable feeling of marching orders to the media. This is a media that followed the lead of Biden associates in spreading the false story that the Hunter laptop was Russian disinformation. This is the media that refused to acknowledge the authenticity of the laptop until only recently  long after the presidential election.

Turley also stresses at the close (with details earlier in his piece):

The letter is an alarming erosion of separation of the White House Counsels office from the Biden defense team. It also confirms an active and aggressive role of White House officials in swatting down allegations against the President. While the staff obviously is not expected to be neutral on impeachment, there is a careful line that past White House counsels have walked between fulfilling their duties to the office as opposed to the officeholder.

The high-handed tone of the White House letter to the press shows the Biden Administration is dug in. Expect even more belligerence.



1 One does wonder why the letter did not come from Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, even if prepared by the Counsels office. Was the intent that having it come from a lawyer was to signal even more seriousness?

2 I had missed a recent Turley column, in which he described long form how Washington Post columnist Philip Bump first flipped out and then walked out on a podcast when challenged over his proven false claims on subjects ranging from Lafayette Park to Russian collusion.
From 14 to 15 September 2023, NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana is visiting Chisinau to discuss NATOs deepening partnership with the Republic of Moldova.

During his visit, the Deputy Secretary General met the Moldovan President Maia Sandu, Prime Minister Dorin Recean, and President of the Parliament Igor Grosu. Mr Geoana also met with senior military officials and will engage with students and civil society representatives.

In his meeting with President Sandu, Mr Geoana reaffirmed NATOs commitment to continue strengthening political and practical support to Moldova. Moldovas cooperation with NATO enhances its resilience and security, and will help Moldova on its path to EU membership, Mr Geoana said.

In a joint press conference with Prime Minister Recean, the Deputy Secretary General highlighted the long-standing cooperation between NATO and Moldova, in full respect for its constitutional neutrality. He thanked Moldova for its continued support to regional stability through its contribution to NATOs peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, and for the assistance it has provided to the Ukrainian people since the beginning of Russias illegal war. Mr Geoana also praised Moldova for its efforts towards European Union integration.

Mr Geoana welcomed Prime Minister Receans goal to enhance the interoperability of the Moldovan armed forces with NATO. He reiterated NATOs full support for Moldovas sovereignty and territorial integrity, calling on Russia to withdraw its forces stationed in the Transnistrian region without Moldovas consent.

At the Vilnius Summit, NATO Allies reconfirmed their commitment to stepping up political and practical support to Moldova. This includes a substantial package of support to help strengthen Moldovas cyber defences, strategic communications, and training and logistics.
U.S. threatens additional sanctions on North Korea if the communist nation inks arms deal with Russia

The United States is threatening to add even more sanctions against the rogue communist nation of North Korea if it sells weapons to Russia.

This warning comes as North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un is believed to have crossed into Russia on his armored train to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and, according to U.S. intelligence, to negotiate an arms deal. (Related: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un warns of nuclear war, orders military to get ready for possible U.S.-led invasion.)

North Korean state media confirmed that Kim left Pyongyang for Russia on Sunday, Sept. 10, and that he was accompanied by top military officials and arms industry leaders. Russian state television later confirmed Kim's arrival, showing the communist leader dressed in a suit and smiling as he stepped off his armored train onto a red carpet at a train station in the Russian Far East, being greeted by a welcome delegation from the Kremlin, including Alexander Kozlov, the minister for natural resources.

Kim is expected to spend a lot of his time in Russia in negotiations. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that the Russian and North Korean delegations would be negotiating and, if needed, Kim will be meeting with Putin in a "one-on-one format."

Washington warns Pyongyang will "pay a price" for selling arms to Moscow

The U.S. has warned North Korea against selling weapons to Russia that could end up being used in the Kremlin's ongoing special military operation in Ukraine.

"We urge the DPRK [Democratic People's Republic of Korea] to abide by the public commitments that Pyongyang has made to not provide or sell arms to Russia," said National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson in an interview with South Korea's Yonhap News Agency.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan similarly warned that North Korea will "pay a price" if it supplies weapons to Russia.

Sullivan said Moscow is seeking material support from North Korea because the U.S. has allegedly "continued to squeeze Russia's defense industrial base, and the Russians are now going about looking to whatever source they can find for things like artillery ammunition."

He added that providing Russia with weapons for its ongoing conflict in Ukraine "is not going to reflect well on North Korea, and they will pay a price for this in the international community."

Meanwhile, other U.S. officials have warned that any arms deal with North Korea would be a direct violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions, including one in 2006 that sanctioned Pyongyang over its nuclear program.

"We urge the DPRK to cease its arms negotiations with Russia," said White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. "And we are taking action directly to exposing and sanctioning individuals and entities working to facilitate arms deals between Russia and the DPRK."

Department of State spokesperson Matthew Miller similarly warned that the U.S. will continue to "hold accountable" entities that help Russia's ongoing military campaign in Ukraine.

"I will remind both countries that any transfer of arms from North Korea to Russia would be in violation of multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions," said Miller. "We, of course, have aggressively enforced our sanctions against entities that fund Russia's war effort, and we will continue to enforce those sanctions and will not hesitate to impose new sanctions if appropriate."

Peskov has brushed off American warnings, saying that Russian national interests would dictate its policies. "While implementing our relations with our neighbors, including North Korea, the interests of our two countries are important to us, and not warnings from Washington," he said.

Learn more about North Korea, Russia and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine at WWIII.news.

Watch this clip from Real America's Voice as Nicole Tsai of the New Federal State of China discusses its intelligence that North Korea will send between 300,000 to half a million troops to Russia to aid in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

This video is from the Chinese Taking Down Evil CCP channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

North Korea scrambles fighter jets after U.S. spy plane allegedly enters its economic zone.

Kim Jong Un dismisses top general, calls for WAR PREPARATIONS.

North Korean leaders promise to "annihilate" the U.S. by end of century.

Russia once again turns to North Korea for help shoring up its ammunition supplies.

Kim Jong Un shows off new ATTACK DRONES and BALLISTIC MISSILES in military parade.

Sources include:

NTD.com

Reuters.com

AlJazeera.com

Brighteon.com
ATF FFL definition expansion isnt just unconstitutional. Its unfeasible

The Biden administration is forcing the federal agency charged with overseeing the strictly-regulated firearm industry to tighten a vice grip on private gun owners, claiming if they privately sell guns and offer to sell more, theyre engaged in the business.

(Article by Larry Keane republished from AmmoLand.com)

This is just the latest salvo from President Joe Biden, who declared from the debate stage in 2019 that the firearm industry is the enemy.

Now, as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is snuffing out firearm retailers at a record pace due to an unrelenting attack of historically-high firearm license revocations under the guise of its zero-tolerance policy, the administration has unilaterally proposed an expansion of the definition of who is required to obtain a dealers license and therefore run a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) verification to transfer a firearm.

Recall failing to obtain a dealers license when required by law is a crime.

This latest gambit does more than exceed the ATFs statutory authority. Its an unfeasible requirement. There is no way ATF could keep up with another 328,000 federal firearm licensees.

President Joe Biden continues to barrel around Congress to generate unconstitutional laws when Congress stands against him trampling on citizens rights. Thats after conceding hes powerless to do anything without Congressional action.

Unilaterally Making Law and Criminals

U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland announced the proposed rule that would redefine who qualifies as engaged in the business and would require a federal firearms license (FFL) and run a NICS background check when selling or transferring a gun, as well as to maintain all the required records and paperwork. This is a thinly veiled attempt to create a universal background check scheme  which even the Department of Justice (DOJ) has admitted would necessitate a federal firearm registry to work. Thats forbidden by federal law.

The irony is Congress clarified the engaged in the business definition in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA). Congress made a one-word change to the engaged in the business definition by removing the word livelihood the courts had effectively read out of the statute. The law still defines a firearm dealer as a person who devotes time, attention and labor to dealing in firearms as a regular course of trade or business to predominantly earn a profit through the repetitive purchase and resale of firearms, but such term shall not include a person who makes occasional sales, exchanges, or purchases of firearms for the enhancement of a personal collection or for a hobby, or who sells all or part of his personal collection of firearms.

There wasnt a need for the administration to publish 108 pages to clarify a definition that was just updated unless the administration is attempting to snatch away Second Amendment rights from Congress and The People.

Yet, the Biden administration is overreaching, claiming they have orders from Congress when they clearly dont.

This proposed rule implements Congresss mandate to expand the definition of who must obtain a license and conduct a background check before selling firearms, AG Garland said.

The proposed rule, subject to public comment and final approval, would require any individual selling firearms online or at gun shows to be licensed and run background checks before completing the transaction, according to Fox News. The Associated Press reported that ATF estimates the proposed rule sweeps up as many as 328,000 private citizens.

Congressional Brushback

In a move not unique to this administration, the Biden administrations legal contortions of the BSCA have gone over like a lead balloon. The proposal strains under its own weight, and Congress is brushing back the administration.

This language is tailored towards individuals regularly selling guns to strangers with the predominant motive of making money through a side business, like the person who sold the Midland shooter his weapon, and it is drafted in such a way that prosecutors will need to prove specific intent on the part of the unlicensed seller, said officials at U.S. Sen. John Cornyns (R-Texas) office. The Biden admin should expect for this rule to be struck down because it is unconstitutional.

Sen. Joni Ernsts (R-Iowa) staff said any efforts to move beyond the previous boundaries for licensing would go against Congresss intent.

President Biden is twisting the law to fit his liberal gun-grabbing agenda, the senators staff told media. His administrations latest attack on lawful gun owners clearly oversteps both the intent and the text of the law, at the expense of the average gun seller. Senator Ernst has repeatedly defended FFL holders and will continue to stand up against the Biden administrations attack on Second Amendment rights.

Focus on Criminals

The unilateral expansion of the firearm dealer definition is unconstitutional and a violation of the Administrative Procedures Act (APA) that will be struck down by the courts. It is also a misallocation of valuable resources and time that should be devoted to going after criminals who willfully break the law. ATF enforcement efforts shouldnt be used to track down a firearm hobbyist who sells an occasional firearm or an uncle who gifts a cherished hunting rifle to his niece. Gunsmithing and building firearms at home, of course, have been common hobbyist activities since before the country was founded.

Expanding the dealer definition means ATF would now be charged with monitoring and requiring registration of up to 328,000 Americans it now deems as firearm dealers even though they only make occasional firearm sales, exchanges, or purchases for the enhancement of a personal collection or a hobby, or who sells all or part of a personal firearm collection. Congress did not change the requirement that to be a dealer, a person must devote time, attention, and labor to dealing in firearms as a regular course of trade or business to predominantly earn a profit through the repetitive purchase and resale of firearms. The agencys workload already appears strained enough. The ATF already conducted 6,609 inspections of federal firearms licensees  starting on Oct. 1. Thats close to 2022s total of 7,502 for the entire year. More sobering is that license revocations are already at 122. There were 92 for all of FY 2022.

For the actual regulated industry NSSF represents, the drain on ATF resources to implement this proposed rule will grind legitimate commerce to a halt. ATF will be unable to provide necessary customer service to the industry, like processing import permits, forms for making and transferring suppressors and classification determination on new products. The firearm industry will go from zero tolerance to zero lawful, Constitutionally-protected commerce  perhaps an ulterior motive behind the rule.

Ironically, during the Clinton administration gun control groups, chiefly Handgun Control Inc. (now renamed Brady United), complained bitterly that there were too many kitchen table dealers and that ATF did not have the resources to inspect and license them all. It seems the gun control lobby cant make up their mind and have done a complete about face on this issue.

President Biden abuses the Constitution and executive authority by wielding ATF like a sledgehammer against law-abiding gun owners, turning them into criminals overnight. Hes making and redefining law when Congress explicitly has chosen not to. The proposed rule is clearly an unconstitutional attack on lawful gun ownership.

Read more at: AmmoLand.com
CHILD ROBBERS targeting NYC bars, bragging that police CANT ARREST them

Child robbers are targeting bars and other watering holes in New York City (NYC), with the juvenile bandits bragging that police officers cannot arrest them due to their age.

One bar owner came forward and recounted his experience with the child robbers. Jacob Rabinowitz, who owns the Amsterdam Ale House on West 76th Street, was at his bar on the evening of Sept. 9. He spotted a child who victimized his patrons in February panhandling outside his business, prompting him to chase the boy away.

He went on to warn other businesses about the child's criminal actions but was threatened by the young culprit. "He said he was going to beat my ass. It was this little kid telling me that," Rabinowitz told the Post on Sept. 10. The bar owner's warning of law enforcement action did not faze the child, who simply replied: "The police can't arrest me, I'm just a kid."

The Stone Street Tavern at the Big Apple's Financial District also fell victim to juvenile robbers. Bartender Raul Gomez recounted an incident in June that involved a seven- or eight-year-old boy stealing a waitress' unattended purse. The child, who was caught on camera, emptied out the purse in the establishment's bathroom.

"We're just telling other people what happened, and we found out that a bunch of other places on the street had gotten hit with the same exact manner," said Gomez. His boss who requested anonymity also expounded on the child robbers' modus operandi.

At first, the children accompanied by their mothers were just selling chocolate. However, upon reaching the taverns, the juveniles then proceeded to rob both employees and patrons. Their mothers, who are reportedly in league with the criminal scheme, permitted their children to roam free.

"The lads will pretend to go downstairs to the bathroom. That's where all the offices and the rooms are for employees only," the Stone Street's manager noted. "And they go right for the employees' purses or bags or coats or wallets or whatever they could find."

The bar manager pointed out that the gang of child robbers "are hitting multiple places on the same day." He also lamented that even if employees kick out the young criminals, they always return for another chance to loot  sometimes just 20 minutes later.

Police unable to do anything against child thieves

According to the Stone Street manager, the boy who broke into the pub in June appeared to be part of the same group that robbed the Amsterdam Ale House on Sept. 9. While it is unclear if the same gang children are involved in all the thefts, several Manhattan bar workers the Post talked to believe they are. (Related: Crime City: New York City records highest number of felony crimes in 16 years.)

The Lexington Publick in East Harlem  also owned by Rabinowitz's  was victimized by the juvenile robbers. Its manager recounted a Sept. 4 incident where a young thief managed to loot about $700 in petty cash from the pub's safe.

Prior to this, a young thief robbed Upside on Amsterdam on Aug. 13. According to law enforcement, the child robber scooted away $600 from an open safe.

According to the Post, the child robbers  "who appear to be no older than 10  have been targeting businesses in Manhattan and Brooklyn for months." The juvenile criminals have graduated "from snatching money in unattended bags to stealing cash from open safes," it added.

"The spree began about eight months ago, when two children repeatedly wreaked havoc at Amsterdam Ale House, taking whatever they could snatch from unattended bags," the outlet continued. Quoting Amsterdam Ale House manager Whitney Kaufman, the same pair of children returned for another round of looting in February. "Things got out of hand  when the pair grabbed food off a table, pushed a customer and brandished a knife he grabbed off a table."

Rabinowitz admitted to being exhausted over the apparent futility of trying to stop the young bandits. He recalled a police officer telling him that there was nothing law enforcement could do to address the issue.

"We, small business owners, are feeling overwhelmed by this constant barrage of petty theft," said Rabinowitz. "It seems impossible to keep them away, and it's frustrating that nothing is being done about it."

Anarchy.news has more stories about the Big Apple's deteriorating public safety.

Watch Owen Shroyer of InfoWars discussing retail crime in NYC, in the same vein as the pub thefts, below.

This video is from the InfoWars channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Rampant theft, ongoing supply chain disruptions leaving drug store shelves in New York City barren.

BAD APPLE: NYC shoplifting reports hit record levels for second straight year.

Rampant theft prompts NYC grocery stores to consider locking up food.

Sources include:

NYPost.com

Brighteon.com
MGM Resorts hit by CYBERATTACK, computer systems in companys Las Vegas properties shut down

Hotel and casino giant MGM Resorts on Monday, Sept. 11, confirmed that its Las Vegas properties had been hit by a cyberattack that caused the company's computer systems to shut down

"MGM Resorts recently identified a cybersecurity issue affecting some of the company's systems," wrote MGM in a statement released on social media. "Promptly after detecting the issue, we quickly began an investigation with assistance from leading external cybersecurity experts."

"We also notified law enforcement and took prompt action to protect our systems and data, including shutting down certain systems," the statement continued. "Our investigation is ongoing and we are working diligently to determine the nature and scope of the matter." (Related: Several federal agencies HACKED as part of global cyberattack that exploited a flaw in popular file-sharing software.)

The extent of the breach is still unclear, but it is known that all of MGM's properties on the four-mile-long Las Vegas Strip have been affected. The company has about 48,000 rooms in the company's properties on the boulevard, including in Mandalay Bay, the Bellagio, Luxor and MGM Grand.

Other affected properties include the Aria, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Delano Las Vegas, Excalibur, New York-New York, NoMad Las Vegas, Park MGM and Vdara.

MGM properties outside of Las Vegas that were also at least partially affected by the cyberattack include the Beau Rivage in Mississippi, Borgata in New Jersey, Empire City Casino in Yonkers, New York, MGM Grand Detroit in Colorado, MGM National Harbor in Maryland, MGM Northfield Park in Ohio and MGM Springfield in Massachusetts.

Credit card transactions, slot machines, digital room keys unusable during cyberattack

The cyberattack was first detected in Las Vegas Sunday night, Sept. 10, when company emails were affected and customer reservations and room keys and slot machines on casino floors also began malfunctioning.

Guests reported on social media that the incident prevented ATMs within MGM properties from dispensing cash. Slot machines also became unplayable. Hotel restaurants were also unable to process credit card payments, forcing them to only accept cash, and guests also reported they could not charge anything to their rooms with their credit cards and were unable to use their digital room keys.

"Everything down still. No ATMs. No withdrawals from cashier. Now all the slots seem to be going down," reported one individual staying at an MGM property at the time of the incident.

A day after the incident began MGM Resorts casino gaming floors were brought back into operation, but guests were still unable to enter their rooms using their digital room keys. They were forced to request physical keys to their rooms at the front desk of hotels.

Guests who still wanted to book rooms at MGM properties despite the incident were told that they may make bookings not online but over the phone by calling company hotlines.

A source with knowledge of the incident informed TechCrunch that all of MGM's properties in the United States were affected by the cyberattack. The websites of several of MGM's regional resorts, including MGM Springfield, National Harbor and Empire City, were forced to shut down.

Many MGM computer systems are likely to remain offline for several more days until the extent of the cyberattack has been made clear to the company and to local, state and federal authorities. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has already been made aware of the incident and has been in contact with MGM Resorts and is assisting in the investigation.

The last time MGM experienced a cybersecurity issue was in 2019, when the personal information of 142 million past and current guests was stolen by hackers and shared on Telegram as well as posted for sale to a dark web marketplace. The affected data included full names, postal addresses, email addresses, phone numbers, dates of birth and, in some cases, driver's license and passport numbers.

Learn more about the threat of cyberattacks at CyberWar.news.

Watch this video discussing the recent global cyberattack that affected several U.S. government agencies.

This video is from the channel InfoWarSSideBand on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Cyberattack disrupts operations in hospitals and clinics operated by Prospect Medical Holdings.

Chinese hackers exploit Microsoft cloud bug to raid US government email accounts, including the Commerce Secretary's.

Over 6M public records from motor vehicles office in Louisiana exposed to MOVEit hackers.

Cybersecurity official warns: Americans must prepare for CYBERATTACKS from Chinese hackers.

More sophisticated Chinese cyberattacks target US firms, government agencies, defense contractors.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

TechCrunch.com

USAToday.com

KTNV.com

Brighteon.com
Synthetic opioid NITAZENES could be DEADLIER than fentanyl, experts warn

A subclass of synthetic opioids called nitazenes could be more powerful than fentanyl  and 1,000 times more potent than morphine  according to a new study.

The small-scale study, which was published in JAMA Network Open on Tuesday, found that patients who overdosed on nitazenes had to receive two or more doses of naloxone, a medication that reverses a drug overdose. That is compared to patients who overdosed on fentanyl and only required one dose of naloxone.

Nitazenes are lab-made opioids being mixed into illegal drugs like heroin. Along with fentanyl, nitazenes are synthetic opioids.

The two are structurally unrelated but they are both among the "fastest-growing classes of opioids being detected in patients in the emergency department (ED) with opioid overdose," according to the study.

Researchers from Icahn School of Medicine, Lehigh Valley Health Network and other U.S. institutions looked at the lab results of 537 patients who had been admitted to the hospital for potential overdose between 2020 and 2022.

They found that 11 of those patients tested positive only for fentanyl and that nine tested positive only for nitazenes, such as brorphine, isotonitazene, metonitazene or N-piperidinyl etonitazene.

It has been estimated that more than 150 people die every day from overdoses related to synthetic opioids, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fentanyl has been involved in nearly two-thirds of all overdose deaths in the U.S. and is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine.

The study also showed that metonitazene overdoses were linked to cardiac arrests, as well as more naloxene doses overall. These patients also exhibited higher rates of cardiac arrest and death than those involving other substances.

The researchers found that 66.6 percent of the patients who overdosed on nitazenes had to receive two or more doses of naloxone, as compared to 36.4 percent of fentanyl patients. Intubation  often an emergency procedure in which a tube is inserted into a person's windpipe through their mouth or nose to keep the trachea open  was performed on 50 percent of patients who used metonitazene, while only 27 percent of fentanyl patients were intubated.

"Findings from the present study can begin to inform emergency care clinicians about naloxone administration for novel potent opioid (NPO) overdose. Our data have public health implications and may provide insight for emergency care clinicians and bystanders who administer naloxone," the researchers wrote.

"Specifically, the need for higher numbers of doses of naloxone in the NPO group, as well as the association between metonitazene overdose (OD) and cardiac arrest, pose a public health threat."

Clinicians must be aware of these opioids in the drug supply so they are adequately prepared to care for patients needing to use multiple doses of naloxone.

Last year, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) issued a warning over synthetic opioids. "A drug that was never approved for medical use, nitazenes are being sourced from China and being mixed into other drugs," the DEA stated at the time.

"China has a large number of unregulated labs that will produce anything that the customer wants. It seems that they have latched on to this and they are making and synthesizing the nitazene, which incidentally is a family of compounds of several different ones. They're [probably] selling it to drug dealers in North America."

What are nitazenes

A synthetic opioid first developed in the 1950s and nicknamed Frankenstein opioids, nitazenes come in powder, pill and liquid form and are often laced into substances, including fentanyl or heroin. They are potentially lethal or can cause a more severe onset of withdrawal symptoms, according to GoodRx Health.

As the supply of street drugs rises, the rise in nitazenes-related deaths is increasing the public health response to the addiction crisis in a growing number of cities across the United States. (Related: Overdose deaths have skyrocketed since 2019, with synthetic and prescription opioids driving the crisis. )

"With the opioid crisis, drug dealers are looking to meet the needs of the market and because it is getting harder and harder to get their hands on fentanyl and oxycodone, they are looking for substitutes," said Dr. Joe Schwarcz, a chemistry professor and McGill University office for science and society director.

A CDC review of overdose deaths in Tennessee found a four-fold increase in deadly overdoses linked to nitazenes in the last two years.

The state saw an increase in nitazenes-related overdoses from 10 to 42 between 2020 and 2021, per the CDC report, which noted the figures are likely an undercount. The agency also reported that nitazenes-related overdoses could require up to four doses of naloxone, the opioid reversal drug.

Schwarcz said anyone with a background in organic chemistry can make nitazenes and they can be produced in so-called "underground laboratories."

The DEA flagged the emergence of the drug mixed with heroin or fentanyl in the Washington, D.C. area in June 2022.

Watch the following video about a new opioid that was found to be 40 times stronger than fentanyl.

This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

As Afghanistan eradicates natural poppy plants used to synthetize heroin, FENTANYL use is increasing.

DEA: Fentanyl-laced fake prescription pills now contain potential LETHAL dose of synthetic opioid.

DEA head: Mexican cartels are using fentanyl to kill Americans in record numbers.

Sources include:

NYPost.com

JAMANetwork.com

CDC.gov 1

GoodRx.com

NewsNationNow.com 1

CDC.gov 2

NewsNationNow.com 2

DEA.gov

Brighteon.com
Twilight of the Democrats

During the end of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st, the Democrats were the party of the future. They were the party of Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, who were sworn in as presidents at the ages of 46 and 47, respectively.

(Article by Alex Gutentag, Leighton Woodhouse, And Michael Shellenberger republished from Public.Substack.com)

Today, that seems like a very long time ago.

Consider the new CNN poll. Three-quarters fear Bidens age could affect his ability to finish another term. Nearly half of registered voters say any Republican presidential nominee would be a better option than Joe Biden in 2024.

If Donald Trump becomes the Republican nominee, 47% of voters would vote for him, and 46% would vote for Biden. While this difference is within the margin of error, CNN noted that they did not have a single poll in 2020 that showed Trump leading against Biden.

Democrats were quick to defend Bidens record. Hes not getting credit for what I think is a fairly substantial list of achievements, said David Axelrod, former senior advisor to President Barack Obama.

Yet no matter how much Democrats try to convince the public that Bidenomics are working, 58% of Americans still believe that Bidens policies have worsened economic conditions. Only 30% of Americans say things are going well in the country.

It may be true that, on paper, Biden revived the economy, but the reality most voters experience is different. Prices are up 16.9% since Biden took office, real wages are down 3%, mortgage rates are at their highest in 22 years, and credit card debt has reached a new peak.

Its likely that the constant flow of money to Ukraine only worsens Americans fears that the president is mishandling the economy. With hundreds of billions of taxpayer dollars going overseas, 500,000 Russian and Ukrainian troops killed or wounded, and no end in sight, the conflict has become the kind of nightmarish forever war that voters once associated with Republicans.

For many years, Democrats insisted that they were the party of diplomatic solutions; today, they are eagerly sending depleted uranium rounds and internationally banned cluster munitions to Ukraine.

Bidens poor approval ratings are likely also influenced by the brewing scandal around his son. Over half of voters believe that the presidents actions related to the Hunter Biden probe are inappropriate, and 61% say they think the president was involved in his sons business dealings.

Indeed, there is mounting evidence that Bidens Department of Justice is criminalizing the political activity of his enemies while shielding his son from real prosecution.

When Biden took office, he vowed that his administration would put an end to the division of the Trump years and would restore unity. Yet, on several occasions, Biden has made highly charged and antagonistic remarks about ordinary American citizens. Despite the medias efforts to portray him as a wise and grandfatherly figure, Biden often appears to be angry and confused, lashing out at us unpredictably.

Due to the presidents age and obvious cognitive decline, it is unclear who is actually running the country and calling the shots. Biden, a corrupt and disoriented old man controlled by shadowy figures behind the scenes, is emblematic of what the Democratic Party has become.

The old vibrancy and inspiring messages of hope and change are gone, and all that remains is a cynical and desperate thirst for power.

Like its figurehead, the Democratic Party operates through secrecy and can barely conceal its contempt for large swathes of the country. It has become a party of censorship, war, elitism, and dishonesty.

There is only so long that Democrats can keep pretending Biden is a competent leader, and the latest CNN poll has provided a chance for many to finally state the obvious. Said Van Jones on CNN, A lot of Democrats look at these numbers and say, The whispers are finally showing up in this data... People are scared to come out and say anything about it, but I think its important for us to have this conversation now.

And yet Biden has shown no sign of throwing in the towel. Rumors periodically fly that he is about to announce he wont run for a second term. Many thought it would happen in August.

The problem for Democrats is that they might have no one who can replace him. Kamala Harris is even less popular than Biden, and San Francisco is Gavin Newsoms albatross.

This is perhaps what is most damning about the current state of the Democrats: Biden may really be the best they have to offer.

 AG

Big Wind Killed Faith The Whale

Government scientists insist that the wind industry isnt killing whales off the East Coast. Its some other factor, maybe global warming, thats been causing the unusual mortality event among cetaceans since 2016.

Independent researchers have data revealed in our documentary, Thrown to the Wind, which debunks that. Not only have the researchers correlated the increased wind deaths to new wind industry boat traffic in previously untrafficked areas, they also document illegally high sound levels from sonar coming from wind industry boats.

There are always other factors. There are other boats on the East Coast, including ones for fishing and lobstering. Climate change is real and may be playing some role.

But climate change has, at best, an indirect effect, and the evidence suggests the whales have adapted to existing boat traffic and are being killed as boats enter new areas. The loud sonar is also likely driving whales into harms way.

As if to drive home the threat, a dead whale named Faith was found floating right next to a wind turbine base, which can be seen in the above photo. She is the 71st whale killed since last December.

This is not normal. Deaths of whales have spiked since 2017. The only significant change that occurred in this period has been the introduction of high-decibel sonar and new boat traffic in previously untrafficked areas, both from the development of offshore wind.

At this rate, the US government and the wind industry are going to make the North Atlantic right whale extinct.

The government has corrupted and/or covered up the science. Congress must investigate immediately. The people who claimed the wind industry wasn't killing whales were lying, and we caught them.

The problem for the people who pushed this project is that this is a hard science problem, and the science is against them.

MS

A Golden Bridge for Liberals Mugged By Reality

Sathanandan, the Second Vice Chairwoman of the Minnesota Democratic Party, in her own driveway and in front of her two children. Her account, which she posted to Facebook, is harrowing. She describes four armed young men beating her on the head and breaking her leg while her kids screamed in terror.

Naturally, Sathanandan was outraged. We need to get illegal guns off of our streets, catch these young people who are running wild and creating chaos across our city, and HOLD THEM IN CUSTODY AND PROSECUTE THEM, she seethed. These criminals will not win. We need to take back our city, she continued, channeling Batman.

But just a few years ago, Sathanandan sounded less like the Dark Knight and more like Antifa. After Minneapolis police officer Derek Chavin killed George Floyd, Sathanandan called to DISMANTLE ??The ??Minneapolis ??Police ??Department.

MPD has systematically failed the Black Community. They have failed ALL OF US, she wrote on Facebook.

Sathanandan isnt the first politician to flip-flop on the idea that crime is fine and police are evil, but she may be the first to land the triple axel in the sport. Nevertheless, while responding with You made your bed, now sleep in it is totally understandable, its not particularly productive.

What Sathanandan and her children suffered was deadly serious  the kind of event that actually deserves the grossly overused word traumatic. Changing ones mind on the need for sensible criminal laws and robust enforcement of them is what we should expect of a victim of such a horrifying confrontation with reality. Imagine if she had gone through this ordeal and then stuck with the defund agenda.

As the crime wave advances, there will be more erstwhile police abolitionists who will learn the hard way why we need law enforcement. We should offer them compassion and welcome them to the fold of those who see the world as it really is.

LW

New York, Border Town

On Wednesday night, in a town hall meeting on Manhattans Upper West Side, New York City Mayor Eric Adams sounded a lot like a border state governor. Were getting no support on this national crisis, the Mayor said of the federal government.

New York, the Mayor complained, is receiving 10,000 new migrants a month. And its not just Venezuelans anymore, he told his audience. Now, its Ecuadorians, Russian-speaking immigrants, and West Africans, too. Adams warned that the costs of providing services to the influx of new arrivals would end up coming out of the budgets of city agencies across the board.

This issue will destroy New York City, Mayor Adams intoned.

Progressives responded to Adams with the usual refrains, calling him a xenophobic bigot and accusing him of stoking violence against immigrants. But New Yorkers seem to agree with the Mayor. A Siena poll found that 82% of New Yorkers see the influx of migrants as a serious problem, and nearly 60% believe its time to stem the flow.

At least some of the migrants themselves also seem to agree. In a certain way, it is true that we are a burden to the city, but we dont want to be that, a Venezuelan migrant told The New York Times.

Asylum seekers are not allowed to work for six months after arriving in the United States. Theyre thus forced to become a drain on their host cities, even if theyre eager to work. I think many of us made a mistake coming to New York because we cannot work here, one Nicaraguan told the Times. Without work permits, we cant contribute.

Until recently, immigration has been a highly partisan issue, with Republican politicians calling for more deportations and more surveillance and militarization of the border and Democrats accusing them of heartlessness.

But now that Democratic-run big cities like New York are being overrun with migrants, in part  but only in small part  as a result of a cynical but effective strategy of Republicans like Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis of bussing migrants to them, the issue is blurring partisan lines.

Mayor Adams, who visited the border in January, has been publicly critical of President Bidens handling of the immigration crisis  so much so that he was dropped from the Presidents campaign advisory board before it was announced last May. The President and the White House have failed this city, he said back in April.

Adams noisiness may be paying off. New York could find a bit of relief from a plan the Biden administration is floating to force refugees to remain in Texas as they await their asylum screenings. The plan would do nothing to solve the bigger problem, of course; it would merely shift the burden back, once again, on a border state run by Republicans.

Immigration policy in the United States is an endless game of hot potato, with Republicans blaming Democrats, Democrats chastising Republicans, mayors and governors blaming the federal government, the President blaming Congress and Congress blaming the President. There is the crisis at the border, but then theres the other, more fundamental crisis: that of American political dysfunction. Immigration is just a stress test, and were failing badly.

LW

Deep (Sadly Accurate) Fake Of The Week

Wind turbines make the horizon more beautiful, say advocates for the technology.

But the above is a visualization of what the East Coast beaches will look like if wind energy giant rsted gets its way.

Its a deep fake but an accurate one.

Those renderings are legally defensible in every way possible, their creator, Dan Ginolfi, told us.

The media today tend to only speak of the downsides of deepfakes. But Ginolfis images show the value of digital manipulation in helping people see what theyre being sold.

They were created using photographs taken this summer on a typical day with typical visibility, Ginolfi explained. Then, a 3D model of all of the proposed wind farms was overlaid on top of the images.

Few people on X/Twitter agreed that they make Americas Eastern horizon more beautiful.

Read more at: Public.Substack.com
Ukraine has just ONE MONTH left for counteroffensive, U.S. general predicts

The highest-ranking military officer in the U.S. Armed Forces has warned that there is only one month left for Ukraine to make significant gains in its counteroffensive against Russia.

Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, issued this warning during a Sept. 10 interview with the BBC. He predicted that the looming winter would not only freeze the ground but also the current lines held in Moscow and Kyiv. Given this, Milley said Ukrainian forces would need to recapture territories under the control of Russia over the next few weeks.

"There's still a reasonable amount of time, probably about 30 to 45 days worth of fighting weather left, so the Ukrainians aren't done," the general told the outlet's Laura Kuenssberg. Milley also admitted that the Ukrainian counteroffensive had gone slower than expected, but continued: "There's battles not done. They haven't finished the fighting part of what they're trying to accomplish." (Related: Ukrainian armed forces failed to achieve goals in three months of counteroffensive effort, Russian defense minister reports.)

Even though Kyiv made minimal gains against the heavily fortified Russian lines over the summer, the highest-ranking U.S. general said it is still too early to declare that Ukraine's counteroffensive had been a failure. "I said at the very beginning of this [war] that this was going to be long, slow, hard and high-casualty-producing  and that's exactly what it is," Milley remarked.

Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine's Main Directorate of Intelligence under the country's Ministry of Defense, also acknowledged the effect of the coming winter on the battlefield. He said the typically cold and wet weather makes it more difficult for wheeled vehicles to transport weapons and soldiers, and noted that Russia's anti-tank defenses are strong.

"So in the majority of cases, unfortunately, our offensive is walking on foot," Budanov said. "[Nevertheless], the fighting will continue one way or another."

Zelensky blames delay in Western weapons for slow progress

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky pointed his fingers at the West's delays in sending weapons to the frontline, claiming that Kyiv "waited too long." During an interview with Fareed Zakaria of the infamous "fake news network," he claimed there was "no happy ending" for Ukraine, unlike Hollywood films.

Despite being "thankful" for the weapons donated by Western allies  including anti-tank launchers, tanks, air defense systems and fighter jets  Zelensky still berated the same countries for not rushing weapons to Ukraine fast enough. The delay, he explained, gave Russia time to dig in and plant deep minefields around Ukrainian positions.

"For the weapons, we waited too long," he told Zakaria. "I'm thankful to [our] partners, but  we waited too long. They put mines. The decision to give us  for example, Bradley [Armored Fighting Vehicles] or another kind of weapon  does not mean the result."

The Ukrainian leader also noted that some things are still on the way, and that "a lot of people say [the counteroffensive is too slow." Nevertheless, he emphasized that the Russians cannot be repelled successfully if Ukraine cannot match its enemy's air superiority. It is worth noting, however, that Kyiv's Western allies have approved the delivery of F-16 fighter jets to the country.

"[Ukraine needs] long-distance weapon systems. Artillery, rounds, systems  it's very important," Zelensky said. "Everybody talks about the jets in the sky, it's very important."

The comedian-turned-president ultimately warned that Western countries giving weapons to Ukraine is a better option than having their own homes invaded by Russia later. He commented: "You can feel it when your family is under attack. You really want to try it? I cannot recommend it."

Visit WWIII.news for more stories about the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

Watch this video about how the Ukrainian counteroffensive turned into Russian counterattacks.

This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

ALL BARK, NO BITE: Ukraine's much-hyped counteroffensive SLOWED by vast minefield.

The West knew Ukraine began its counteroffensive with INSUFFICIENT training and weapons.

U.S. proxy war: Kyiv's counteroffensive kills or wounds 800 Ukrainians per day, Russia reports.

Counteroffensive: Western tanks fight Russians for first time, one German Leopard lost, reports claim.

Military experts insist Ukraine's counteroffensive is not failing, "just off to a slow start"  tell that to the Marines.

Sources include:

Breitbart.com 1

Breitbart.com 2

Brighteon.com
NYC Mayor Eric Adams admits mass illegal immigration is inherently destructive for the Big Apple

New York City Mayor Eric Adams's video, where he admitted that the ongoing migrant crisis "will destroy" the Big Apple and that he does not see a way to fix the issue, has already gone viral.

For Eddie Scarry, the D.C. columnist of the Federalist, rival politicians publicly denouncing President Joe Biden's immigration policies are expected, however, Adams is a Democrat.

In the said footage that was shared multiple times on X, formerly Twitter, Adams spoke about the unabated stream of migrants sent to his city via Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's migrant busing program. He said these asylum seekers get the privilege of bathing, clothing, feeding and housing them all at the local taxpayers' expense. "Let me tell you something New Yorkers, never in my life have I had a problem that I did not see an ending to  I don't see an ending to this," the mayor said on Wednesday night in his opening remarks at a town hall meeting last week in the Upper West Side neighborhood of Manhattan. "This issue will destroy New York City."

According to him, this money doesn't get to be spent on things like homeless shelters, police, and more public services that would otherwise go to actual Americans and legal residents. He also expressed frustration that the administration of Biden has just allowed the influx of 110,000 asylum seekers from the southern border.

BREAKING: Mayor Adams basically conceding New York City is done because of illegal immigration and warns New Yorkers illegals will flood ALL neighborhoods. pic.twitter.com/Lj5E3BSvDX  nycphotog (@nycphotog) September 7, 2023

Adams has been criticizing the president as well as Gov. Kathy Hochul for failing to help the city handle the illegals and pleaded for additional funding and expedited work permits, pointing out last week that the city's requests were still mostly "unaddressed" and calling for a federal emergency and a national "decompression strategy at the border."

We have a $12 billion deficit that we're going to have to cut," the mayor said. "Every service in this city is going to be impacted." But what he said thereafter was even more urgent. "They're destroying New York City. It's going to come to your neighborhoods. All of us are going to be impacted by this.  The city we knew, we're about to lose."

The surge of migrants crossing the border has overwhelmed NYC, with nearly 60,000 occupying beds in traditional city shelters and in more than 200 emergency sites, according to the New York Times. Adam's office said that more than 110,000 asylum seekers have arrived in the city since the spring of 2022. "We're getting no support on this national crisis," he said. However, the Hill reported that Adams already received around $140 million in federal funding for shelters, more than any other city not on the southwest border.

Meanwhile, some GOP leaders have increasingly used this criticism of Biden as a talking point ahead of the 2024 presidential election. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy even quoted Adams in a statement that argued that the "Biden Border Crisis is hurting the country." And he thinks that Mayor Adams is right. "New York City deserves better," McCarthy said.

Former Republican Vice President Mike Pence also lauded the New York mayor, who's been willing to call out Biden and his administration for their absolute failure to secure the southern border.

Abbott on Adams' NYC invasion complains: You can't handle what we deal with every day in Texas

Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott slammed Adams for his recent "whines" over the surge of illegals in his city, saying that the Big Apple chief "could not last a week in Texas."

During an appearance on Fox News's "Jesse Watters Primetime," the Texan reacted to Adams recently calling him a "madman" for busing migrants to New York. "When I first heard that, I thought about Frank Sinatra singing 'New York, New York,' when he's saying, 'If I can make it here, I can make it anywhere,'" he said. "Well, the mayor may have made it to be mayor of New York, but he could not last a week in Texas. They have so few migrants in New York compared to what we deal with every single day."

The governor began busing migrants last spring in an effort to protest border policies by sending migrants to so-called sanctuary cities. "What's maddening is the fact that in New York and Chicago and D.C. and Los Angeles and other places, they put out policies self-proclaiming that they are sanctuary cities, and they love to promote these liberal ideologies until they have to actually live up and apply them," he said. "It's clear that the policies of sanctuary cities and letting everybody live for free simply do not work." (Related: City council of "sanctuary" Los Angeles orders probe into Abbotts migrant busing program, signaling they don't want migrants after all.)

Abbott said that as of last week, the Lone Star State has bused more than 35,000 migrants to sanctuary cities, including more than 13,300 to New York.

InvasionUSA.news has more stories related to the influx of illegal immigrants via open borders.

Sources for this article include:

TheFederalist.com

NYTimes.com

TheHill.com

FoxNews.com
Bill Gates pledges $10 million to support creation of universal DIGITAL ID SYSTEM that will enslave the world

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has recently pledged $10 million to support the Modular Open-Source Identification Platform (MOSIP) in its mission to create a universal digital identification system

The foundation, guided by the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, has actively promoted the initiative of MOSIP to establish a national ID system. The foundation claims that, with 850 million people deprived of government services due to the lack of proof of identity, MOSIP's initiative is a way to stimulate economic growth and advance the creation of digital public infrastructures.

MOSIP, launched in 2018, aims to address these concerns through accessibility and adaptability. Meaning to say, the digital ID system would be customized per country, depending on the needs of the people and the economy.

Eleven countries have led the way in the adoption of MOSIP, including Ethiopia, Morocco and the Philippines, leading to the rapid distribution of over 90 million digital IDs. This has brought to light the vast amount of personal data being collected by governments and the potential risks associated with data breaches or misuse.

Privacy experts argue that the implementation of such a system could have serious implications for personal privacy. The adoption of this system without privacy safety can lead to potential misuse, surveillance and unwarranted data access given that personal data has become increasingly valuable these days.

"While the Gates Foundation views digital ID systems as integral to fostering digital public infrastructure that can, in theory, stimulate economic growth, the risks to personal privacy cannot be ignored," warns Reclaim The Net, a digital rights advocacy group.

Digital ID system raises privacy and security concerns

The MOSIP initiative is patterned after the controversial Aadhaar-enabled Payments System (AePS), the digital identification system of India. Just like MOSIP and the Bill Gates Foundation, this advanced development in India faces multiple privacy and security concerns.

First, renowned security expert Bruce Schneier warned that no matter how AePS has stringent encryption standards and restricted access, central databases like the Central Identities Data Repository (CIDR) are not immune to hacking. In short, the real threat lies in the potential breach of the systems that access the data.

Second, the reproduction of fingerprints makes one prone to identity and banking fraud despite the fact that AePS offers convenience to the public. Based on the point of view of Reetika Khera, an opinion writer for The Wire, making personal information accessible to unauthorized entities causes discomfort. (Related: Several cases of IDENTITY THEFT spark concern over Australias national digital ID proposal.)

Next, the uniqueness of AePS lies in the centralization of biometric and demographic information which is then seeded into different public and private databases. This integration, according to privacy experts, robs people of control over their data and facilitates government profiling due to the collection of biometric data.

Furthermore, concerns arise about the creation of an "ecosystem" in which the AePS number becomes a tool for surveillance. Critics argue that this electronic leash can be used to control and monitor citizens' activities across different domains of life.

Lastly, privacy experts object to the vision that the personal data economy could monetize people's personal information from credit rating improvements to epidemiological studies. Instead, they argue that it prioritizes data mining over digital literacy and safeguards.

These privacy concerns mirror the possible consequences of the initiative of MOSP. Privacy experts suggest that the system might be used to create a social credit score and central bank digital currency, which could potentially grant the ruling class excessive control over the slave states.

"This entire system is going to be tied to a social credit score and a central bank digital currency that the rulers will have full control over," stated Mac Slavo, a staff writer for SHTF Plan.

PrivacyWatch.news has more stories related to the implications of digital ID systems.

Watch this documentary that discusses how the digital passport ID would introduce state control.

This video is from the ?????? ?????????? channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

OF COURSE! Worldcoin will permit governments and private firms across the globe to use its World ID system  that was the plan all along.

Utah governor signs bill to launch pilot program for blockchain-based digital ID system.

Senate committee passes bill creating national digital ID system, but they will never require it for voting.

Sources include:

SHTFPlan.com

ReclaimtheNet.org

TheWire.in

Brighteon.com
WITCH HUNT: Homeland Security awards $20 million to law enforcement, mental health networks, schools and churches to label everyday Americans as potential extremists

Just a few days before the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that it will be awarding $20 million in taxpayer money to law enforcement departments, mental health networks, colleges and universities, school districts, and even churches to "prevent targeted violence and terrorism."

How DHS plans to "prevent targeted violence and terrorism" with all that disbursed cash is by convincing the various institutions and leaders receiving it to keep a close eye on patients, students, parishioners, and really everyone in the general public to help DHS better identify the presence of "extremists" throughout society.

Some 34 different organizations will receive a portion of that $20 million jackpot, which comes in addition to the $70 million that the DHS' Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships, also known as CP3, has distributed to private non-profit groups, as well as state and local government agencies, since fiscal 2020.

(Related: Back in 2021, DHS declared anti-vaxxers to be "terrorists" before unveiling a 90-day plan to unleash violence and blame it on "anti-lockdown extremists.")

DHS using "public health" excuse to label as many Americans as possible as "extremists"

Taking a page from the playbook of the United Nations (UN) and its World Health Organization (WHO), DHS placed great emphasis on "public health" in its press release about the $20 million in grant money that it says will go to:

"... mental health providers, educators, faith leaders, social service providers, nonprofits, law enforcement, and other state, local, and community partners to address systemic factors that can lead to violence while strengthening protective factors at the local level that support the safety, well-being, and resiliency of communities in the United States."

That gobbledygook word salad mess is just a fancy way of saying that the DHS is bribing the pillars of American society to act as spooks in whatever capacity they find themselves to spy on and surveil those around them in order to make sure nothing disrupts the deep state agenda.

The CP3 program, according to the same release:

"... helps to prevent targeted violence and terrorism through funding, training, increased public awareness, and the development of partnerships across every level of the government, the private sector and in local communities across our country. Leveraging an approach informed by public health research, CP3 brings together mental health providers, educators, faith leaders, public health officials, social services, nonprofits, and others in communities across the country to help people who may be escalating to violence."

Many people who read this will probably assume that DHS and CP3 are talking about actual terrorist organizations like al-Qaeda, ISIS, or the Iranian Republican Guard Corps. In reality, though, they are talking about dissenters to the globalist agenda, which today includes the mass corruption of our nation's youth, among other perversions and forms of wickedness.

"Whether it's Covid and vaccines, the war in Ukraine, immigration, the Second Amendment, LGBTQ ideology and child-gender confusion, the integrity of our elections, or the issue of protecting life in the womb, you are no longer allowed to hold dissenting opinions and voice them publicly in America," reports Leo Hohmann about who DHS is actually targeting with this anti-"extremist" initiative.

"If you do, your own government will take note and consider you a potential 'violent extremist' and terrorist."

Meanwhile, illegal aliens will continue to pour across the border and resettle in our nation's communities without repercussions. Oh, but if you speak out against the transgender mutilation of children, your "pastor" could report you to DHS resulting in you being labeled a "terrorist."

The most threatening terrorist in the U.S. today is the government itself. Learn more at Terrorism.news.

Sources for this article include:

LeoHohmann.com

NaturalNews.com
EU head Ursula von der Leyen calls for global implementation of Mark of the Beast  future is digital

What the world needs now is not love, according to European Union (EU) chief Ursula von der Leyen. No, what the world needs in her eyes is an international digital identification system like Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) "vaccine" passports and artificial intelligence (AI)  in other words, von der Leyen is calling for the

The current president of the European Commission, von der Leyen imagines that this new global digital ID system will be run by a powerful globalist body such as the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

"The future will be digital," von der Leyen proclaimed before the "One Future" session of the G20 Summit in India, adding that there needs to be more globalist institutions established to help set up all the boundaries and regulations for this new Mark of the Beast system.

Before ascending to her unelected role as EU Commission president, von der Leyen served as Berlin's Defence Minister.

"Today I want to focus on AI and digital infrastructure," von der Leyen said at the One Future session. "As it has been described, AI has risks but also offers tremendous opportunities. The crucial question is how to harness a rapidly changing technology."

"In the EU, in 2020, we presented the first-ever law on artificial intelligence. We want to facilitate innovation while building trust. But we need more. What the world does now will shape our future. I believe that Europe, and its partners, should develop a new global framework for AI risks."

In other words, von der Leyen is eager to install AI robots as the new global overlords to run her envisioned digital ID program. She wants it to span the entire world, which is why she wants there to be developed a "global framework for AI risks."

"We would need a similar body to the IPCC for climate, and here we need additional outreach to the scientists, entrepreneurs and innovators," she added at One Future. "They need to provide the knowledge on the risks posed by AI, as well as the potential benefits for humanity."

The future is digital. I passed two messages to the G20: ? We should establish a framework for safe, responsible AI, with a similar body as the IPCC for climate ? Digital public infrastructures are an accelerator of growth. They must be trusted, interoperable & open to all  Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) September 10, 2023

(Related: In late 2021, von der Leyen announced plans to force everyone in Europe to get jabbed for COVID.)

To function in public, everyone in the future will need to be merged into "digital public infrastructures," von der Leyen says

In von der Leyen's envisioned AI-run future, all people on earth will need to participate in accordance with the "digital public infrastructures" that she wants to see erected.

These digital public infrastructures will function in much the same way as the coronavirus passport system that existed in the EU during the "pandemic."

"Many of you are familiar with the COVID-19 digital certificate," von der Leyen told the room in India. "The EU developed it for itself. The model was so functional and so trusted that 51 countries on 4 continents adopted it for free."

"Today, the WHO uses it as a global standard to facilitate mobility in times of health threats. I want to thank Dr. Tedros again for the excellent cooperation."

Right now, the EU is trying its hardest to introduce a bloc-wide "digital identity" app containing each person's passport, driver's license, credit cards, and other important information. All such information would be available right in the app, and perhaps eventually in an implantable microchip for further security.

The move prompted Romanian Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Cristian Terhes to warn that the planned implementation of this bloc-wide digital ID system would result in the "Chinafication" of Europe, which nobody wants.

Just like von der Leyen is trying to do through the EU, China is busy trying to implement its own Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) to replace its existing fiat currency infrastructure.

"This megalomaniac is an unelected bureaucrat," one commenter wrote about von der Leyen, who is clearly on a rogue power trip  perhaps she would feel more at home if she simply moved to communist China rather than turn Europe into communist China?

"She can go straight to hell. Do not pass Go, do not collect $200."

Others wondered how easy it might be to hack a digital ID app, allowing people's personal information to flow into the hands of hackers.

"This is the face of the enemy," wrote another. "Do you get it now?"

"So a digital version of 'where are your papers?' is espoused," said someone else, noting the irony considering von der Leyen hails from Germany.

The latest news about the coming one-world order, Mark of the Beast, and fulfillment of Daniel's 70th week can be found at Revelations.news.

Sources for this article include:

Breitbart.com

NaturalNews.com
Exposure to microwaves, cell phone radiation causes dangerous free radicals called PEROXYNITRITES to accumulate in the body

In case you have not noticed, the world has become a radioactive nightmare. The advent of microwaves, Wi-Fi routers, wireless mobile phones, smart meters, and all the associated technology that goes along with these things  this includes 5G technology  is wreaking havoc on human health to a degree never before seen in history.

Every major mobile phone carrier in the United States  and many outside the United States, save for Russia and a few other places where 5G is banned  is slapping up 5G, and soon to be 6G, transmission nodes anywhere and everywhere they can despite there being zero safety studies showing that chronic exposure to 5G is safe. The result is widespread illness in a variety of forms.

The type of 5G deployed across America relies primarily on a bandwidth known as the millimeter wave. This is the same type of radiation found in the naked body scanners at U.S. airports, and it is known to cause a burning sensation on the skin  this is why many air travelers were opting out and choosing an invasive pat down instead. Millimeter wave radiation is also linked to eye and heart problems, suppressed immune function, genetic damage, and fertility problems.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) openly admits that there has not been even a single study conducted on 5G either by the agency itself or by any of the major players in the telecommunications industry  and no studies are planned for the future, either. This means that Americans are being fried day in and day out by an untested radiation type, the long-term effects of which are still being uncovered.

Not only are people being exposed to 5G towers that emit millimeter waves, but also to the hand-held devices that communicate with them. This includes 5G-equipped "smartphones," laptop computers, tablets, and all sorts of other electronic wireless devices.

According to Dr. Joseph Mercola, persistent exposure to microwave frequencies such as those emitted by these products trigger mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as the production of peroxynitrite, a harmful substance that occurs when a certain free radical called superoxide anion reacts with nitric oxide (NO). The end result is the potential formation of all sorts of chronic health problems, not the least of which are cardiac arrhythmias, anxiety, depression, autism, Alzheimer's disease, and infertility, to name just a few.

"Peroxynitrite interacts with lipids, DNA, and proteins via direct oxidative reactions or via indirect, radical-mediated mechanisms," explains a 2008 study published in the peer-reviewed journal Physiological Reviews. "These reactions trigger cellular responses ranging from subtle modulations of cell signaling to overwhelming oxidative injury, committing cells to necrosis or apoptosis."

The study further found that peroxynitrite generation plays a direct role, pathogenically speaking, in serious health conditions such as stroke, myocardial infarction, chronic heart failure, diabetes, circulatory shock, chronic inflammatory diseases, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.

In a petition filed with the United Nations (UN) by more than 230 international EMF scientists, it was further explained that chronic EMF exposure at levels the governments of the world deem as "safe" is linked to a range of other health problems as well.

"Effects include increased cancer risk, cellular stress, increase in harmful free radicals, genetic damages, structural and functional changes of the reproductive system, learning and memory deficits, neurological disorders and negative impacts on general well-being in humans. Damage goes well beyond the human race, as there is growing evidence of harmful effects to both plant and animal life."

(Related: Check out our earlier report showing that 4G and LTE are similarly damaging to cells, tissue, and DNA.)

5G never should have been approved in the first place: It's untested and unsafe

So far, these pleas for government regulators to do something have accomplished nothing. A 2017 call for a moratorium on 5G technology was ignored, despite being endorsed by more than 180 scientists and doctors from 35 countries who say that 5G should remain banned "until potential hazards for human health and the environment have been fully investigated by scientists independent from industry."

"RF-EMF has been proven to be harmful for humans and the environment," this cohort of field experts added, further noting that "5G will substantially increase exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields on top of the 2G, 3G, 4G, Wi-Fi, etc. for telecommunications already in place."

Dr. Ronald Powell, PhD, a retired scientist of applied physics at Harvard University, believes that "there is no safe way to implement 5G in our communities ... there are only 'bad ways' and 'worse ways,'" he says.

Amazingly, out of more than 35,000 published articles on EMFs, only seven involve medical or biological studies. And not a one of these seven involved modulating or pulsing the signal as happens in real life for 5G transmission, according to Dr. Joel M. Moskowitz, PhD, director of the Center of Family and Community Health School of Public Health at UC Berkeley.

Over the past 100 years, EMF exposure has increased an astounding one quintillion times  a quintillion is a million trillion, or a million million millions. That is a lot more radiation than a person can even imagine or quantify, let alone endure for very long before serious health problems arise.

A few easy ways to help minimize your EMF and 5G exposure is to not use a 5G phone, for one. It is also ideal to rid your home of as many "smart" appliances and devices as possible, as well as to turn off your phone and wireless router at night while you sleep.

The latest news about the persistent health threat of 5G exposure can be found at 5Galert.com.

Sources for this article include:

ChildrensHealthDefense.org

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

NaturalNews.com
5G REMOTE KILL VECTOR: Science paper reveals cell phone signals can activate the release of biological PAYLOADS from graphene oxide injected into the body

science paper published in MaterialsToday Chemistry reveals that cell phone signals can be used to release biological or chemical payloads from graphene oxide that's introduced into the human body. The paper, published in September of 2022, is entitled, "Remotely controlled electro-responsive on-demand nanotherapy based on amine-modified graphene oxide for synergistic dual drug delivery."

The study abstract reveals how a cell phone can emit signals to activate a low voltage current that interacts with Graphene Oxide (GO) molecules, causing efficient delivery of drug payloads:

This study aims to determine low-voltage-controlled dual drug (aspirin and doxorubicin) release from GO surface. Here, we have demonstrated how to control the drug release rate remotely with a handy mobile phone, with zero passive release at idle time.

Because of its extremely high surface area and complex structure composition, graphene oxide turns out to be the perfect molecule for delivery of biological or drug payloads inside the body. From the study:

These advantages make GO an extremely potential nanocomposite material as a drug carrier in the field of biomedicine and biotechnology, while being combined with a polymer or inorganic matrix.

Importantly, the presence of a specific frequency of a low voltage current is all that's necessary to cause graphene oxide to release its payload.

5G cell tower signals create micro currents inside the body

We already know that 5G signals can generate electrical currents inside the human body, even from a significant distance. An important article authored by Dr. Joseph Mercola and published in Childrens Health Defense reveals that 5G cell signal radiation results in measurable biological and chemical changes inside the human body. From his article:

5G relies primarily on the bandwidth of the millimeter wave, known to cause a painful burning sensation. Its also been linked to eye and heart problems, suppressed immune function, genetic damage and fertility problems.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) admits no 5G safety studies have been conducted or funded by the agency or telecom industry, and that none are planned.

The FCC has been captured by the telecom industry, which in turn has perfected the disinformation strategies employed by the tobacco industry before it.

Persistent exposures to microwave frequencies like those from cellphones can cause mitochondrial dysfunction and nuclear DNA damage from free radicals produced from peroxynitrite.

Excessive exposures to cellphones and Wi-Fi networks have been linked to chronic diseases such as cardiac arrhythmias, anxiety, depression, autism, Alzheimers and infertility.

The Cellular Phone Task Force website lists numerous warnings from governments and agencies around the world who have sounded the alarm on cell phone radiation and its harmful effects on human biology.

Radiofrequency microwave radiation causes voltage changes inside the body's cells, altering calcium channels

Additionally, compelling research led by Martin Pall, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of biochemistry and basic medical sciences at Washington State University, reveals that microwave radiation from mobile devices and wireless routers causes voltage changes inside the body's cells, activating what are called "Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels" (VGCCs), which are located in the outer membrane of your cells. It is this membrane that determines what passes into and out of the cell.

See the full study by Martin Pall, PhD., entitled: Electromagnetic fields act via activation of voltage-gated calcium channels to produce beneficial or adverse effects. That study explains:

Twenty-three studies have shown that voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) produce these and other EMF effects... Furthermore, the voltage-gated properties of these channels may provide biophysically plausible mechanisms for EMF biological effects.

From Dr. Mercola's article linked above: (emphasis added)

According to Palls research radiofrequency microwave radiation such as that from your cellphone and wireless router activates the voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) located in the outer membrane of your cells.

According to Pall, VGCCs are 7.2 million times more sensitive to microwave radiation than the charged particles inside and outside our cells, which means the safety standards for this exposure are off by a factor of 7.2 million.

Low-frequency microwave radiation opens your VGCCs, thereby allowing an abnormal influx of calcium ions into the cell, which in turn activates nitric oxide and superoxide which react nearly instantaneously to form peroxynitrite that then causes carbonate free radicals, which are one of the most damaging reactive nitrogen species known and thought to be a root cause for many of todays chronic diseases.

This means that cell phone radiation (and 5G cell tower radiation) does, indeed, induce voltage changes in the human body, and that these voltage changes have very real biochemical effects, some of which may be dangerous to human health (such as the formation of peroxynitrite molecules).

Fighting these potent free radicals can be achieved in part with nutritional approaches, such as through the use of superoxide dismutase enzyme (SOD), which is the foundational nutrient in the Health Ranger Store's 5G Defense powders. Notably, SOD (which is usually derived from melon fruit) does not block cell tower radiation itself, but it helps the body respond to cellular stresses such as the formation of peroxynitrite molecules.

In related news reported by Reuters, French regulators have issued a warning to Apple to stop selling iPhone 12 phones due to the presence of excessive radiation produced by the devices. Apple's smartphone exceeds the allowable legal limit of radiation. This phone has been sold since 2020.

5G signals may be used to cause Graphene Oxide to release payloads inside the human body

Connecting the dots on all this, 5G signals can be used to generate low voltage inside the human body, causing Graphene Oxide molecules to release predetermined payloads inside the body. Via the published paper linked above:

Upon application of external stimuli, many materials are able to release drugs. However, most of them need sophisticated instruments except electrical stimulation. Electro-stimulated drug delivery has attracted attention due to the low expense, painless, and portability of the control equipment, making it manageable for customized applications. In this study, we used NGO as an electro-sensitive material to deliver drugs in a controllable manner.

"This is the first time we have used ASP and DOX as a model drug which can be delivered simultaneously by external voltage," the paper states. The conclusion of the paper adds: (emphasis added)

In conclusion, we have shown here that NGO can be used as a dual drug delivery agent, and the release of drugs can be controlled by an external voltage. To exploit the synergistic effect of ASP and DOX, we modified NGO and attached two drugs to it. Our labmade remote-controlled device efficiently released the anticancer drug. The releasing process can easily be switched on and off with a mobile phone by changing the bias voltage.

Graphene Oxide can carry biological or chemical weapons as payloads

In the scientific paper quoted above, the payload was aspirin plus a common cancer drug. However, payloads can be almost anything of sufficiently small size, including both hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecules. From the study, "We have also demonstrated how hydrophilic (ASP) and hydrophobic drugs (DOX) can be delivered by using a single delivery platform."

This means that potent chemical weapons -- theoretically including nerve agents that are fatal at nanograms of exposure -- could be loaded into graphene oxide molecules which are surreptitiously delivered into the body via aggressively propagandized medical interventions such as fake vaccines or covid swabs. Theoretically, such weapons might be able to be delivered to the population via food vectors as well. Once in the body, a small amount of payload leakage may generate some level of nerve damage among inoculated victims, but the real payload delivery won't happen until a proper 5G signal is broadcast across the inoculated population, using the "release frequency" that generates the required voltage to unleash the payload.

In other words, a 5G broadcast signal at the appropriate frequency could instantly cause graphene oxide molecules to release the payloads into the bodies of those who were previously inoculated with those payloads. This would happen simultaneously, across the entire population that is within range of the broadcast frequencies which generate the necessary voltage in the body.

If the payload were a nerve agent, the real world effect would be the sudden dropping dead of large portions of populations across cities where 5G broadcast are able to saturate them. If payloads were virus-like nanoparticles, payload delivery could cause a large portion of the population to suddenly appear to be "infected" with a pandemic virus that is spreading at unimaginable speed.

This technology, in other words, could be used as a "kill switch" to terminate whatever portion of the population was previously inoculated with payload-carrying GO.

"Black ink" printed on pharmaceutical capsules shown to be magnetic and may contain graphene oxide

Some additional information came to my attention during the writing of this article. The black ink printed on the side of pharmaceutical capsules actually consists of mysterious black specks which are magnetic. A contact sent me a video, represented in the following screen shot, showing pharmaceutical capsules soaked in water for several hours, after which the black "ink" from the capsules turned into black specs that displayed startling magnetic properties. In this still photo, you can see the black specs gather at the common magnet held against the glass:

As this article reveals in LiveScience.com, stunning new research finds that graphene can be made magnetic by assembling layers in a specific rotational orientation. This gives rise to magnetism, even though the underlying atomic elements are nothing but carbon. From the article:

The magnetic field isn't created by the usual spin of electrons within the individual graphene layers, but instead arises from the collective swirling of electrons in all of the three-layers of the stacked graphene structure, researchers reported Oct. 12 in the journal Nature Physics.

Is graphene being used in the "ink" that's printed on the side of prescription medications? We don't know for certain, but the fact that this ink is clearly magnetic is alarming.

Graphene oxide can also transmit gigahertz signals to nearby receivers

Additionally, under certain exotic applications of graphic oxide (GO) materials, those whose bodies are activated by cell tower broadcast could themselves function as electromagnetic "repeaters" due to the ability of GO to function as transmitters.

This capability is well documented in a study entitled, "Radio-frequency characteristics of graphene oxide," published in Applied Physics Letters in 2010. (https://doi.org/10.1063/1.3506468) That study explains: (emphasis added)

We confirm graphene oxide, a two-dimensional carbon structure at the nanoscale level can be a strong candidate for high-efficient interconnector

in radio-frequency range. In this paper, we investigate high frequency characteristics of graphene oxide in range of 0.540 GHz. Radiofrequency transmission properties were extracted as S-parameters to determine the intrinsic ac transmission of graphene sheets, such as the impedance variation dependence on frequency. The impedance and resistance of graphene sheets drastically decrease as frequency increases. This result confirms graphene oxide has high potential for transmitting signals at gigahertz ranges.

Graphene oxide materials, in other words, can both carry payloads which are delivered via remote cell phone signaling, as well as transmit signals to other nearby receivers.

This could theoretically be used to start a "chain reaction" of 5G cell tower signals being re-broadcast from one person to another. In theory, this could extend a "kill switch" signal broadcast far beyond the initial range of 5G cell towers themselves.

From the conclusion of that published paper:

...[W]e expect that GO could be used for transmission lines in next-stage electronics and could be very strong candidate for nanocarbon electronics.

Conclusions

Graphene oxide can carry chemical or biological payloads. Graphene oxide carrying payloads can be introduced into the body through vaccines or swabs. The release of those payloads can be controlled by external cell tower signals which cause specific voltage changes in human cells. Some voltage changes are already known to occur with exposure to cell tower radiation, especially with 5G. Graphene oxide payloads can include "kill switch" payloads such as nerve agents or infectious agents. The 5G tower system can therefore function as a chemical weapons payload release infrastructure system to achieve a "mass kill" of populations which were previously inoculated with payload-carrying GO. Covid vaccines -- which are now widely known to have had nothing to do with halting any pandemic (since even the White House and CDC both admit they do not halt transmission or infections) -- could have theoretically been used to inoculate people with graphene oxide payloads which have not yet been activated.

Thus, it is plausible -- but not proven -- that vaccines + 5G cell towers could be exploited as a depopulation weapon system to achieve near-simultaneous mass extermination of a large percentage of the human population, simply by activating GO payload release with a specific broadcast energy intensity and frequency.

Given that the western governments of the world are clearly attempting to exterminate their own populations right now, this conclusion should be concerning to all those who wish to survive the global depopulation agenda.

Sources cited in this article include:

https://childrenshealthdefense.org/defender/5g-emf-radiofrequency-radiation-health-risks-exposure-humans-cola/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2468519422002166

https://www.reuters.com/technology/french-watchdog-halts-iphone-12-sales-over-too-high-radiation-minister-2023-09-12/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23802593/

http://cellphonetaskforce.org/governments-and-organizations-that-ban-or-warn-against-wireless-technology/

https://pubs.aip.org/aip/apl/article-abstract/97/19/193103/324025/Radio-frequency-characteristics-of-graphene-oxide?redirectedFrom=fulltext
Schools in America bring back ineffective mask mandates amid contrived rise in COVID-19 infections

Several schools in America are bringing back restrictive Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) mask mandates amid reports of a surge in COVID cases , even though several studies have shown that wearing masks can negatively affect children's learning.

Kinterbish Junior High School in Cuba, Alabama, has requested that all students, staff and visitors wear face masks in classrooms and hallways because of "the slow rise of Covid cases in the area." Kinterbish Junior High School has around 120 students aged between five and 14.

Alabama's Talladega City School district, which serves more than 1,700 students aged four to 18, is also encouraging children and staff to wear masks. The district is quick to emphasize that masks are only "encouraged but not required."

On the other hand, a Maryland elementary school recently sparked outrage after requiring students to wear tightly-fitting N95 masks for 10 days. The move is considered particularly excessive because only a handful of students have tested positive for COVID-19.

In New York, health officials are supplying schools with free masks in response to increasing COVID-19 rates and absences. They have also promised to send COVID-19 tests to school districts that need them.

The return of mask mandates was prompted by reports of COVID-19 case rates steadily increasing in the United States. According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the test positivity rate, or the share of swabs that come back positive, has gone up from 6.7 percent in the week ending July 15 to 13.5 percent by Aug. 19.

Schools in Los Angeles, which previously had some of the strictest pandemic measures in America that included mask mandates, 10-day illness quarantines and weekly COVID-19 testing, have also gone for an optional masking policy.

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Unified School District, which has more than 429,000 kindergarteners through 12th grade, has chosen a more relaxed approach to the coronavirus and illness in general.

Alberto Carvalho, the Los Angeles schools superintendent, encouraged students to come to school even if they are sick to counteract high rates of absence.

According to Carvalho, based on "high levels of vaccination, therapeutics available and childrens higher resiliency than most," the district is back at a point where if young students are only "mildly sick," meaning no fever and just the sniffles, it is fine if their parents want to send them to school.

He added that children should be fine if they take medication, wear masks and are monitored.

Americans worried harmful COVID-19 policies will take effect once again

In August, a Kentucky school district canceled classes less than two weeks after reopening after some students were affected by a "tripledemic" of the flu, COVID-19 and strep throat outbreaks. At the time, a fifth of students had signed off sick.

More citizens are also growing increasingly worried that harmful and intrusive COVID-19 policies could once again hamper American life.

To date, there is no evidence that face masks reduce infection rates. If anything, studies have found that mask mandates stunted children's social development and education. (Related: POLITICAL COURAGE: Ron DeSantis wants Florida Legislature to permanently ban COVID-19 mask and vaccine mandates.)

Many people have also blamed masks for the increase in cases of flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and Strep A bacterial infection among minors in 2022. This is because wearing face coverings and avoiding exposure to healthy germs prevented children from developing the natural immunity they would have gained otherwise.

In Maryland, Rosemary Hills Elementary School principal Rebecca Irwin Kennedy formally announced her school's mask mandate in a letter sent to parents this September. In the letter, she explained that she saw fit to enforce the mandate after "three or more individuals" caught the virus in the last ten days.

Kennedy instructed all students to wear thick N95 masks to keep the school environment "as safe as possible" even though a recent study revealed that N95 masks could expose wearers to dangerous levels of toxic chemicals.

Even Dr. Anthony Fauci has admitted that there is no evidence wearing face masks stops the spread of COVID-19, but Kennedy still told parents that the N95s will only become optional after 10 days.

The letter caused backlash from parents and guardians who consider the decision a slippery slope back to draconian COVID-19 lockdowns.

Patients only experiencing mild symptoms amid rise in COVID-19 cases

Even though COVID-19 cases are increasing in the U.S., public health officials reported that most patients are only experiencing mild symptoms comparable to a cold or flu. Experts also noted that while children are as likely as adults to get coronavirus, their risk of becoming severely ill from the virus is much lower.

The CDC considers the hospitalization rate of COVID-19 patients to be low, and the weekly death rate is near a historic low. Most of the patients that have been hospitalized or are dying from COVID-19 are over 65.

Despite what Big Pharma and the government would have you think, health experts clarified that the recent surge of coronavirus cases is not something to worry about even after the U.S. recorded its first uptick in hospitalizations due to the virus this 2023.

Data from the CDC revealed that at least 8,000 patients were admitted to hospitals nationwide in the last week of August, up by 12 percent from the previous seven-day spell. Experts think that the spike is due to the natural waning of immunity, which happens at least six months after the previous wave of infections.

Despite the rise, rates remain at historic lows. For comparison, there were 150,000 COVID-19 admissions per week at the height of the pandemic in January 2021.

According to experts, COVID-19 is likely to be a lasting fixture of daily life, much like the common cold. Dr. Brett Osborn, a board-certified neurosurgeon in West Palm Beach, Florida, explained that Americans must understand that SARS-CoV-2 and its variants are never going away.

COVID-19 "is here to stay because its mutation rate is high, just like influenza," explained Osborn.

EG.5 and another COVID-19 variant, FL.1.5.1, which accounts for about 15 percent of current cases in the U.S., both carry a genetic mutation that may help them bypass the immune system and bind more tightly to cells.

Andrew Read, an evolutionary microbiologist at Pennsylvania State University, explained that there is nothing unexpected or alarming about the new COVID-19 mutations.

When a virus gains a new ability that gives it an advantage as it spreads, it will naturally spread to different places. The uptick in cases is consistent with how virus evolution will develop when "a new virus has jumped into a novel host population."

Learn more about the return of oppressive COVID-19 mandates at Pandemic.news.

Watch the video below to learn more about the rise of COVID-19 mandates.

This video is from The New American channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Maryland elementary school in D.C. suburb once again forcing children to wear a mask for COVID.

VINDICATED: School district agrees to REINSTATE and PAY teachers fired for refusing COVID-19 shots.

COVID 2.0? Biden planning to LOCK DOWN and MASK America starting in mid-September, TSA whistleblowers tell InfoWars.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

NYTimes.com

Brighteon.com
Heavy rainfall is forecast to unload in the Northeast and New England this week, causing possible flash flood risks. Flood watches are also present in Connecticut into New Hampshire.

As of the September 13 report, the slow-moving cold front and thunderstorms could help bring the rainy conditions in the Northeast and New England.

Motorists with travel plans should check the road for possible flooding concerns.

Recently, Massachusetts experienced heavy rainfall over the Northwestern parts of Boston, causing power outages and evacuations of people near the Barrett Pond Dam.

Northeast and New England weather forecast

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) latest advisory until September 16, unsettled weather conditions are likely in the Northeast and the New England.

The cold front and surge of moisture will help to unleash the excessive rainfall in the Northeast, causing flooding watches in parts of Connecticut into New Hampshire.

All eyes are on Hurricane Lee, which will continue producing dangerous surf and life-threatening rip currents to the East Coast, PR, and USVI; while enroute to New England. Strong thunderstorms and heavy rain is producing flash flooding in New England and the Southwest. pic.twitter.com/0VSoma3f3R  National Weather Service (@NWS) September 14, 2023

People near flood-prone areas should monitor the latest forecasts for possible flooding and flash flood risks.

As of September 13, NWS explained that Hurricane Lee could bring dangerous surf conditions in parts of the East Coast, with challenging thunderstorms in New England.

In the midweek, possible tornadoes could emerge in parts of New Haven, Boston and Springfield.

Meanwhile, rainy conditions are expected in the following areas before the end of the week:

Portland

Boston

New York

Washington

Virginia Beach

Pittsburgh

Buffalo

Burlington

Charleston

On Saturday, the rainy outlook with possible thunderstorms is likely in the following areas:

Portland

Boston

Halifax

Meanwhile, Hurricane Lee could cause beach flooding and erosion in New York City. A special marine warning was also issued in Sound East of New Haven, Long Island Sound West of New Haven, Port Jefferson, NY and Connecticut River.

9/13 11pm AST: There is the potential for life-threatening storm surge flooding from Hurricane #Lee in portions of southeastern MA, including Cape Cod & Nantucket, late Friday & Saturday, where a Storm Surge Watch has been issued. Please check https://t.co/0BMJEzOTx0 for updates! pic.twitter.com/7NQKU9FdzB  NHC Storm Surge (@NHC_Surge) September 14, 2023

According to the NHC, storm surge could be possible in Cape Cod, Nantucket and Southeastern MA in the late week or weekend due to Hurricane Lee.

In Washington City, cooler conditions are expected this week due to the strong cold front, bringing relief from the challenging heat.

Also Read: Massachusetts Heavy Rain: Flooding Causes Power Outages, Immediate Evacuations

Weather in the Southern Plains

In the Southern Plains, the NWS advisory showed that thunderstorm conditions with heavy rain could impact parts of the Southern Plains into the weekend.

Similar to the Northeast, the rainy outlook will ease the troublesome heat in the region. The September 13 forecast shows that the flooding threat could continue until the week.

Residents in the Southern Plains are warned of the flash flooding and excessive rainfall concerns.

Furthermore, the National Hurricane Center reported that Hurricane Lee could cause tropical storm conditions in Martha's Vineyard and Lock Island.

On the weekend, the heavy rain from the Hurricane could unload in the Eastern Maine. The forecast showed that Hurricane Lee could likely land in Canada's Nova Scotia, New Brunswick or Maine this coming weekend.

Related Article: US Weather Forecast: Rain, Thunderstorms Likely to Unload in Northeast This Week

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News.
Firefighters are working to control the bushfires in Central Australia, 30 or 40 kilometers from a popular area in Tennant Creek.

Extreme Fire Danger is forecast for the Darwin and Adelaide River, Gregory South East and Barkly North.



Follow the advice from PFES and BFNT for fire preparedness and safety.



Stay up to date with the latest fire weather forecasts: https://t.co/Wcu4bqpQHu pic.twitter.com/pbrG0lT6yW  Bureau of Meteorology, Northern Territory (@BOM_NT) September 9, 2023

The raging bushfires can also cause significant health concerns for older adults, people with medical conditions, pregnant women and children.

Climate Change and El Nino cause soaring temperatures and dry conditions, which are favorable to bushfires and wildfires, causing significant damage to forests and communities.

Central Australia Raging Bushfire

According to a recent report, residents are on heightened alert for the possible fire conditions in Tennant Creek. The windy outlook could help fan the fire, bringing more dangerous risks to the nearby communities.

The bushfire blaze was believed to have begun last week, burning at least 10,000 square kilometers of land. The dry conditions helped unleash the fire in the region.

The Bureau of Meteorology in the Northern Territory warned of extreme fire dangers in the following areas:

Barkly North

Gregory South East

Darwin

Adelaide River

At least 3,000 people are living in Tennant Creek.

Authorities also deployed containment plans to prevent the fires from entering the town.

According to the report, the Australian Defence Force also helped to mitigate the fire tracks. Acting commander James Gray-Spence from Northern Territory Police explained that the weather could play a crucial role in the impact of the said fire.

Recently, NWN report explained the impacts of fire frequency on humans and wildlife. Climate change can be linked to the increasing concerns of wildfires, as human-caused greenhouse emissions could worsen the problem.

Climate change could result in rising temperatures, dry vegetation and prolonged drought. It can also cause reduced precipitation patterns, increasing the fire risks or spreading quickly.

In addition, climate change helps to intensify extreme weather events, including hurricanes, tropical storms, drought and wildfires.

The mitigation efforts and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions are crucial to prevent the worsening consequences of climate change and global warming.

Also Read: Quokkas in Western Australia: Animals Developed Adaptive Behavior to Survive in Burned Areas

Purple-Crowned Fairy Wrens in Northern Australia

According to a report from the Journal of Applied Ecology, riparian birds are vulnerable to fires, even if it is low intensity. The Purple-Crowned Fairy Wrens (Malurus coratus) in Northern Australia could suffer from population decline, especially since their species is already threatened.

The increasing wildfires in Northern Australia could push to limit the population of the Purple-Crowned Fairy Wrens, which live in sensitive habitats.

Furthermore, the riparian birds are also considered bioindicators of a healthy environment. The fires could affect the breeding success of the Purple-Crowned Fairy Wrens, making it more vulnerable to the brink of extinction.

On the other hand, the small Quokkas in Western Australia adapted to the burned areas or forest fires. The study was published in the International Journal of Wildland Fire.

The report explained that the quokkas developed unique fire-exclusive zones to prevent fire exposure.

Related Article: Purple-Crowned Fairy-Wrens Survival Endangered Due to Wildfires in Northern Australia

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News.
The number of fatalities in the deadly floods in Libya could climb to as high as 20,000.

Authorities feared this death toll as thousands are still declared missing following the onslaught of Storm Daniel in the war-stricken country.

Bodies have been flooding the streets in devastated villages.

At present, authorities said that the storm killed at least 5,300 people across northeastern Libya.

Officials said that the scale of devastation appeared to be worse than what they had initially predicted, noting that the recovery and rehabilitation of the country, especially the most hit, could cost billions of dollars.

Situation in most-hit Derna

In the City of Derna, which has been the most affected by the weather disturbance, at least 30,000 people had been displaced.

Two dams collapsed, resulting in the damage of several bridges in the area.

Survivors have been experiencing shortage of food and drinking water. Authorities, meanwhile, have been met with difficulties in fully restoring the internet connection.

At present, a technical committee that was created to assess the damage disclosed that the extent of the collapsed road network in Derna was estimated at 20 miles or 30 kilometers.

Furthermore, the group said the area that has been damaged by the deep inundation covered 90 hectares or 220 acres, with five bridges being wiped out.

So far, the agencies aiming to distribute assistance to the affected families in the city are having a difficult time in reaching Derna, which houses more than 100,000 people.

This was because of the fact that the roads have been gravely hampered by the destruction brought by the storm. The only mountain road that could be used was the one that is situated between Tobruk and Derna.

However, the said road was clogged with heavy flow of traffic due to the relief vehicles as well as the influx of residents who had gone in search of their missing relatives and loved ones.

Meanwhile, aid agencies were forced to use helicopters, mainly provided by Egypt, to deliver assistance.

To recall, it was early this week when Storm Daniel had caused massive inundation in Libya's northeast, leading to loss of lives and infrastructure damage in several coastal towns and along rivers, including Benghazi, Al-Jabal Al-Akhder, Al-Marj, Batah, Bayada, Albayda, Shahat and Sousse.

In the City of Derna alone, 30 million cubic meters of water had been released.

Read Also: Libya Floods: Death Toll Expected To Rise As 10,000 Still Missing

Aid to address hunger

The group Action Against Hunger has launched an emergency appeal to support the victims who are affected by the floods.

"Our teams in Libya are ready to support the local Libyan Red Crescent in the distribution of food packages, hygiene kits, and other essential items for 1,000 affected people," Dr. Charles Owubah, the CEO of Action Against Hunger, said.

Since 2019, this organization has been working in Libya to strengthen the resilience of people affected by the conflict and improve livelihoods for the most vulnerable communities.

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has announced an initial package worth up to 1 million to provide life-saving assistance to meet the immediate needs of the survivors of the floods.

In addition, the UN also announced $10 million in response to the flooding from its Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), to which the UK is one of the largest donors.

Related Article: Libya Floods: At Least 2,000 Feared Dead; 5,000 Could Be Missing In City Of Derna As Dams Collapsed

Related Video:
A new species of spiny mouse was discovered in parts of the Choco region in northwestern Ecuador. It has a noticeably small, long tail.

The small spiny mouse looks the same as other genus or species.

At first look, it is not recognizable as other different or new species. However, researchers discovered that the spiny mouse is a new to science.

Researchers have been working together to find new species of animals in the wildlife. The discovery of new species can protect biodiversity and ecosystems from possible invasive attacks, population decline and impacts of climate change.

The Golden spiny mouse is recognizable with its appealing golden brown look. It can be found in parts of Africa and the Middle East, in rocky crevices or savannas.

New Spiny Mouse With Small Long Tail

The spiny mouse is small. It also fast runners to evade possible predators as it tends to be very alert of its environments, hiding in the most unnoticeable areas to avoid potential attacks.

The name of the new species of spiny mouse was inspired by Marc Hoogeslag of Amsterdam, who helped with the international conservation of many species.

In addition, the recent discovery listed the new species as the 14th of the genus found in the past five years and the 24th species.

According to new research in Zookeys, neacomys is considered a genus of the spiny mouse, which thrives in parts of South America and Eastern portions of Panama.

With the collaboration projects and studies, experts would better understand the species or genus of spiny mouse, especially in South America.

The area where they found the new species, the Choco biogeographic region, is rich in different species and biodiversity, which are unknown to science.

The researchers who conducted the research are from the following areas:

Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad in Ecuador

Universidad Industrial de Santande in Columbia

Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Ecuador

Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity in Germany

Also Read: Colorful Insects Visit Bay Area in California That Likely Become Affected Due to Heavy Rains

New Species of Mole discovered in Eastern Turkey

Two new mole species were found in Eastern Turkey, hiding in the mountains for about three million years.

The Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society journal published the study.

The moles were named Talpa hakkariensis and Talpa davidiana tatvanensis. Amazingly, they survived under the extreme temperatures in Eastern Turkey's mountains.

Moles can survive underground, which allows them to breathe. They can leave tracks in their travel area using their urine to evade predators.

They are found to resurface from their burrows or underground during the twilight hours, which gives them the advantage to escape attacks better and find possible partners.

Related Article: Walking Leaf Species: Plant-Looking New Insects Found With Cryptic Appearance

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature News.
Sorry, something doesn't look right.

Something seems unusual about your device or browser. Please contact support.
Harpreet Bajwa By

Express News Service

CHANDIGARH: Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) who died on Wednesday in a gun battle with terrorists in Anantnag of Jammu and Kashmir was a third-generation Army officer. He was a native of Bharaunjian village near Chandigarh in SAS Nagar district of Punjab. He is survived by his wife, Jagmeet Grewal, who is an economics teacher with the Haryana government, and two children, six-year-old Kabir Singh and two-year-old Bani Kaur.

Colonel Manpreet's wife along with her two children returned just a fortnight ago after staying with him in Kashmir.

Singh was the seventh member of the family who was in the armed forces, his grandfather and his two brothers were soldiers in British troops, and his father and two of his cousins served in the Indian Army.

A pall of gloom descended on his village and also in Panchakula, as his body is expected to come on Friday and is likely to be cremated the same day, scores of people are turning up at their residences to pay their respects.

"The mortal remains of my son-in-law will reach here tomorrow afternoon as the Army formalities take time., said Colonel Manpreet Singh's father-in-law Jagdev Singh Grewal, a retired Haryana Government officer'.

He added that his daughter had given a call to her husband and he had told her that he was going in for the operation.

Singh was leading his troops from the front when he received critical gunshot wounds. In 2012 he was decorated with the Sena Medal for gallantry after he neutralized terrorists in J&K. Singh spent almost five years with the same Rashtriya Rifles battalion, the first three as the second-in-command and then as

the Commanding Officer. He was about to complete his tenure with Rashtriya Rifles in four months. He was recently honoured with a gallantry award by the Army.

Singhs uncle said that since childhood, the deceased officer had shown leadership qualities. He was always smiling and ready to help others, he said.

Major Aashish Dhonchak hailing from Panipat in Haryana was one of the three officers killed in action on Tuesday.

Dhonchak joined the Army in 2013, he is survived by his wife Jyoti and three-year-old daughter Vamika. Major Dhonchak had three sisters. He was planning to visit the family on his birthday next month. While Dhonchaks family lives in Panipats Sector 7, his native village is Binjhol in Panipat district.

As the news of his death spread, villagers and neighbours rushed to his house in Sector 7 of Panipat. His uncle Dilwar Singh said, "We knew there was an operation underway. But we got the news of his death from my son who's also in the Army".

Those who turned up to express grief and be with the families in this tragic hour said the Army should give a befitting reply to the terrorists. "Everyone knows that Pakistan has waged a proxy war. Our Army should give a befitting reply once and for all, so that no mother has to mourn the loss of her son, no sister loses her brother again in this manner, no wife loses her husband and no child loses its father, said an elderly man who lives in Dhonchaks neighbourhood in Panipat.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

CHANDIGARH: Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) who died on Wednesday in a gun battle with terrorists in Anantnag of Jammu and Kashmir was a third-generation Army officer. He was a native of Bharaunjian village near Chandigarh in SAS Nagar district of Punjab. He is survived by his wife, Jagmeet Grewal, who is an economics teacher with the Haryana government, and two children, six-year-old Kabir Singh and two-year-old Bani Kaur. Colonel Manpreet's wife along with her two children returned just a fortnight ago after staying with him in Kashmir. Singh was the seventh member of the family who was in the armed forces, his grandfather and his two brothers were soldiers in British troops, and his father and two of his cousins served in the Indian Army.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); A pall of gloom descended on his village and also in Panchakula, as his body is expected to come on Friday and is likely to be cremated the same day, scores of people are turning up at their residences to pay their respects. "The mortal remains of my son-in-law will reach here tomorrow afternoon as the Army formalities take time., said Colonel Manpreet Singh's father-in-law Jagdev Singh Grewal, a retired Haryana Government officer'. He added that his daughter had given a call to her husband and he had told her that he was going in for the operation. Singh was leading his troops from the front when he received critical gunshot wounds. In 2012 he was decorated with the Sena Medal for gallantry after he neutralized terrorists in J&K. Singh spent almost five years with the same Rashtriya Rifles battalion, the first three as the second-in-command and then as the Commanding Officer. He was about to complete his tenure with Rashtriya Rifles in four months. He was recently honoured with a gallantry award by the Army. Singhs uncle said that since childhood, the deceased officer had shown leadership qualities. He was always smiling and ready to help others, he said. Major Aashish Dhonchak hailing from Panipat in Haryana was one of the three officers killed in action on Tuesday. Dhonchak joined the Army in 2013, he is survived by his wife Jyoti and three-year-old daughter Vamika. Major Dhonchak had three sisters. He was planning to visit the family on his birthday next month. While Dhonchaks family lives in Panipats Sector 7, his native village is Binjhol in Panipat district. As the news of his death spread, villagers and neighbours rushed to his house in Sector 7 of Panipat. His uncle Dilwar Singh said, "We knew there was an operation underway. But we got the news of his death from my son who's also in the Army". Those who turned up to express grief and be with the families in this tragic hour said the Army should give a befitting reply to the terrorists. "Everyone knows that Pakistan has waged a proxy war. Our Army should give a befitting reply once and for all, so that no mother has to mourn the loss of her son, no sister loses her brother again in this manner, no wife loses her husband and no child loses its father, said an elderly man who lives in Dhonchaks neighbourhood in Panipat. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Two La Crosse natives  graduates from Logan High School exactly 10 years apart will head up Oktoberfests two parades this year.

Jeffrey Hankey, a 1985 Logan graduate, has been named this years Maple Leaf Parade marshal, which will kick off Saturday, Sept. 30. Scott Hendrickson, a 1975 Logan grad, will lead the Torchlight Parade through La Crosses North Side on Thursday, Sept. 28. The two were introduced during an evening ceremony Wednesday at Copeland Park.

Hankey was told of his new role when two former parade marshals, Patti Lokken and Paul Stuhr, and his wife, Cindy, came to his house. He thought they were inquiring about the past parade marshal float he helped build or about the plans for a new past Oktoberfest Special Fester float. Instead, they told him he would be joining the parade marshal fold.

Hankey says hes honored to be included in a group of whom he calls exceptional humans. He says he sees volunteer work as an easy way to help and do what he can for the community.

I never would have guessed that I have done enough, or accomplished nearly enough, to even make it to a list of nominees for such a position of honor, he says.

Hankey is no stranger to the Maple Leaf parade. Hes marched in Oktoberfests premiere parade every year since 1979, except 1991. That was the year he got engaged and needed to meet his in-laws at a family wedding held on parade day.

His other roles in the parade have usually been on the drumline  playing with the Cavaletts, Warriors, Logan High School Band, UW-La Crosse marching band, UW-L Alumni Band, Bagpipers and Wisconsin Tuba Marching Society. Hankey and his wife, Terri, have marched with the Oktoberfest Grenadiers since 2015.

And for 15 years Hankey marched in the Maple Leaf parade twice each year. After being in a unit at the front of the parade, he then headed back to the staging area to march the route again with the drumline of the popular UWL Alumni Band. Hes known to share his marching quads with young parade watchers, or even laying down on the pavement while playing for effect.

Hankey, who earned an associate degree and completed apprenticeships from Western Technical, has worked as a certified auto technician, as well as journeyman sheet metal worker and commercial electrician. He currently works in sales and HVAC design for Dakota Supply Group. In his spare time, he and his wife take Oktoberfest spirit to area parades, along with other events. The Hankeys also travel with the royal family to schools and nursing homes the week following Oktoberfest, with him playing drums.

I always hope to bring something special to anyone attending our events, Hankey explains. I do everything I can to single out kids, grandmas, veterans, and special needs parade goers, to do a little part in making them feel included in the parade or events happening.

In addition to parades, the Hankeys enjoy playing ball at Miracle Field at the YMCA in Onalaska and helping special needs children have fun at Tanz fur Alle, the Oktoberfest Special Fester Ball.

Hendrickson, who was born and raised on La Crosses northside, says he is very excited and honored to serve as the 2023 Torchlight Parade Marshal. He attended Franklin Elementary School and after graduating from Logan High, he attended UWL where he earned a Bachelor of Science in community health education in 1980.

Hendrickson left La Crosse following graduation to join the U.S. Army where he served as a medical service corps officer from 1980-2002. He earned a Master of Healthcare Administration degree from Baylor University in 1989. His final Army assignment was chief operating officer of the hospital and clinics at Fort Riley Kansas.

When Hendrickson retired to La Crosse in 2006, he became a construction volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, where he has helped build many homes, including three on the northside. He has been active at Trinity Lutheran Church where serves on the churchs council as treasurer.

Hendrickson has also been an active member of the Logan-Northside Neighborhood Association since 2018. He has volunteered for the American Red Cross Service to Armed Forces program since April 2019 and is a regular blood donor with the organization. Since 2021, he has been a member of the Joint Board of Harbor Commissioners.

Hendrickson says his focus on serving others in retirement remains as strong as it was during his professional career.

Whether it be patients in the hospital or clinic, or by volunteering in the community, I find my volunteer time very rewarding, he says. I especially enjoy volunteering on the Habitat for Humanity construction team.

Hendrickson says he and his wife, Pam Mueller, look forward to traditional Oktoberfest activities, such as Fridays Tapping of the Golden Keg and enjoying music on the grounds.

I look forward to riding in the Torchlight Parade, he says. I also cant wait to visit schools and nursing homes the week after Oktoberfest, as well as attend other festivals next year.
Mayank Singh By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: In a gesture that bolsters military ties between India and Bangladesh, the Chief of Naval Staff of the Bangladesh Navy visited India on Wednesday. This was his maiden foreign visit since he took charge in July this year.

Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, Chief of the Naval Staff, Bangladesh Navy, is on a five-day official visit to India from September 12-16. During the visit he is scheduled to meet the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, Defence Secretary and Foreign Secretary, in addition to other high-ranking officials of the Government of India, the Indian Navy said in a statement.

During the bilateral interactions, he is likely to discuss cooperation issues such as coordinated patrol along the International Maritime Boundary Line, bilateral naval exercise Bongosagar, conduct of naval training and reciprocal visits of delegations.

Admiral Hassan laid a wreath and paid tribute at the National War Memorial on Wednesday, followed by a meeting with Indias Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar, at the South Block in New Delhi, where he was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour.

Both the chiefs discussed issues related to the enhancement of cooperation in the field of operations, training, information exchange and participation in multilateral constructs. On completion of engagements in New Delhi, Admiral Hassan will visit Mumbai, where he will meet the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, and also visit an indigenously constructed Indian ship.

As per the Indian Navy, India and Bangladesh share bonds of history, language, culture and a multitude of other commonalities. The excellent bilateral ties reflect an all-encompassing partnership based on sovereignty, equality, trust and understanding, which goes beyond strategic ties.

Bangladesh holds prime importance in Indias Look East policy. Both countries have strengthened their bilateral relations in the last 10 years. Both have recently agreed for bilateral trade in Indian Rupee and India stands as the second biggest trade partner of Bangladesh with a volume of $16 billion, even as China has been asserting its influence over Bangladesh.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

NEW DELHI: In a gesture that bolsters military ties between India and Bangladesh, the Chief of Naval Staff of the Bangladesh Navy visited India on Wednesday. This was his maiden foreign visit since he took charge in July this year. Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, Chief of the Naval Staff, Bangladesh Navy, is on a five-day official visit to India from September 12-16. During the visit he is scheduled to meet the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, Defence Secretary and Foreign Secretary, in addition to other high-ranking officials of the Government of India, the Indian Navy said in a statement. During the bilateral interactions, he is likely to discuss cooperation issues such as coordinated patrol along the International Maritime Boundary Line, bilateral naval exercise Bongosagar, conduct of naval training and reciprocal visits of delegations. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Admiral Hassan laid a wreath and paid tribute at the National War Memorial on Wednesday, followed by a meeting with Indias Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar, at the South Block in New Delhi, where he was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour. Both the chiefs discussed issues related to the enhancement of cooperation in the field of operations, training, information exchange and participation in multilateral constructs. On completion of engagements in New Delhi, Admiral Hassan will visit Mumbai, where he will meet the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, and also visit an indigenously constructed Indian ship. As per the Indian Navy, India and Bangladesh share bonds of history, language, culture and a multitude of other commonalities. The excellent bilateral ties reflect an all-encompassing partnership based on sovereignty, equality, trust and understanding, which goes beyond strategic ties. Bangladesh holds prime importance in Indias Look East policy. Both countries have strengthened their bilateral relations in the last 10 years. Both have recently agreed for bilateral trade in Indian Rupee and India stands as the second biggest trade partner of Bangladesh with a volume of $16 billion, even as China has been asserting its influence over Bangladesh. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Enforcement Directorate has summoned BRS leader and the daughter of Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, K Kavitha, at its Delhi office on Friday for questioning in connection with the excise policy case in the national capital, officials said.

Kavitha was questioned several times at the ED headquarters in March and had to submit her mobile phones to the federal agency.

It is alleged that the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22 to grant licences to liquor traders allowed cartelisation and favoured certain dealers who had paid bribes for it, a charge strongly refuted by the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the national capital.

The policy was subsequently scrapped and the Delhi lieutenant governor had recommended a CBI probe, following which the ED registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

During its probe, the ED had recorded the statement of Butchibabu, an accountant allegedly linked to Kavitha, in which he had said "There was a political understanding between K Kavitha and the chief minister (Arvind Kejriwal) and deputy chief minister (Manish Sisodia). In that process, K Kavitha also met Vijay Nair on March 19-20, 2021".

Kavitha has asserted that she has done no wrong and accused the BJP-led Centre of using the ED as the saffron party could not gain a backdoor entry into Telangana.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

NEW DELHI: The Enforcement Directorate has summoned BRS leader and the daughter of Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, K Kavitha, at its Delhi office on Friday for questioning in connection with the excise policy case in the national capital, officials said. Kavitha was questioned several times at the ED headquarters in March and had to submit her mobile phones to the federal agency. It is alleged that the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22 to grant licences to liquor traders allowed cartelisation and favoured certain dealers who had paid bribes for it, a charge strongly refuted by the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the national capital.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The policy was subsequently scrapped and the Delhi lieutenant governor had recommended a CBI probe, following which the ED registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). During its probe, the ED had recorded the statement of Butchibabu, an accountant allegedly linked to Kavitha, in which he had said "There was a political understanding between K Kavitha and the chief minister (Arvind Kejriwal) and deputy chief minister (Manish Sisodia). In that process, K Kavitha also met Vijay Nair on March 19-20, 2021". Kavitha has asserted that she has done no wrong and accused the BJP-led Centre of using the ED as the saffron party could not gain a backdoor entry into Telangana. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The opposition alliance INDIA on Thursday announced that it will boycott shows of 14 television anchors on several platforms, a decision the BJP compared with the Emergency.

The News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) said the boycott sets a dangerous precedent and goes against the ethos of democracy.

The media committee of the bloc took the decision to boycott the programmes of these journalists and not send their representatives on debates hosted by them on such channels or platforms.

"Pursuant to the decision taken by INDIA Coordination Committee in its meeting on September 13, 2023, the INDIA parties will not send their representatives on the shows and events of the following anchors," a statement from the media committee of the opposition bloc said while listing the names of such journalists.

Justifying the action, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera, who is a part of the committee of opposition parties that took the decision in their virtual meeting, said some channels have put up a "nafrat ka bazaar" (market for hatred) for the last nine years.

The BJP condemned the move with its chief spokesperson and MP Anil Baluni saying in a statement that opposition parties have displayed their repressive, dictatorial and negative mindset.

The BJP strongly opposes such a distorted mindset which curbs the freedom of expression, he said.

"The media was throttled during the Emergency and these 'ghamandia' alliance parties continue to work with the same anarchic and Emergency mindset," he said, alleging that such an "open threat" to the media amounted to suppressing the voice of people.

Khera, however, asserted that the INDIA parties have decided not to legitimise this "hate-filled narrative" which is corroding our society, he noted.

"That was the idea behind this decision," he said, adding that the opposition bloc does not want to be a party to any such action which adds hatred in society.

"We are not opposed to any of the anchors, but we do not want to be a party to such endeavours," Khera said, adding that they can create memes or target their leaders but will not create such an atmosphere.

"We will not be customers in this market of this hate," he asserted.

"We have taken this decision and issued this list with a heavy heart. We hope these anchors will do some introspection and take some corrective measures," the Congress leader also said.

Union minister Hardeep Puri compared the move to the Emergency that curbed media rights.

"The only instance we have seen of civil liberties being curtailed in India was during the Emergency in 1975," he said in a post on X.

"Open calls for eradication of Sanatan Dharma, FIRs against journalists and boycott of media reflect politics of those dark years of Emergency. True face of I.N.D.I. Alliance," he said.

Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur also hit out at the opposition bloc, saying this move shows their desperation.

Addressing a public meeting in Rajasthan's Bhilwara, he said, "Everyday, the leaders of Congress and their allies say they will destroy Sanatan Dharma and leave no stone unturned to insult Hindus. Now they have even started boycotting journalists and are filing cases. Be it in Chennai or Bengal, they are filing cases out of desperation and panic, and at the same time they are saying that they will eradicate Sanatan Dharma." Baluni said the opposition's decision also suggests that these parties are unable to face the truth.

It seems the opposition alliance is under some outside influence to target the media's freedom, he said.

"The BJP requests all media organisations and journalists dedicated to their duties to oppose such a distorted mindset while discharging their duties honestly," he said.

They should not fear this dictatorial mindset of the opposition's alliance and follow the higher values of working without fear or favour, the BJP leader said.

The BJP's IT department head Amit Malviya also took to X to say, "So I.N.D.I. Alliance has released a list of journalists, who refused to even bend, when the Opposition expected them to crawl. They should wear it as a badge of honour. More power to them..."

The AAP also shared the list of journalists and the statement issued by the INDIA media committee on its X handle using the hashtag "#JudegaBharatJeetegaIndia".

The News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) expressed anguish and concern over the decision, saying it sets a dangerous precedent.

The boycott goes against the ethos of democracy, the association said.

"It betokens intolerance and imperils press freedom. The opposition alliance claims to be the champion of pluralism and a free press, but its decision betrays callous disregard for democracy's most fundamental tenet - the inalienable right to openly express ideas and opinions."

The boycott of certain journalists/anchors takes the nation back to the Emergency era, when the press was gagged, and independent opinions and voices were crushed," the NBDA said, urging the opposition alliance to withdraw its decision that amounts to browbeating journalists and stifling freedom of speech and expression.

Meanwhile, the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) termed the boycott an attack on democracy.

The NUJ took strong exception to the INDIA parties' boycott of some journalists and condemned the same, alleging that the opposition parties have politicised the media.

The president of National Union of Journalists linked to the International Federation of Journalists, Ras Bihari, said in a statement that this decision of the opposition parties is a "black chapter" of repression on the media in India's democratic history.

"This is totally wrong and unacceptable," he said, adding that this reflects the lack of democratic values in these parties.

"The opposition alliance of 26 parties has shamed democracy through this action of boycott," he said, adding that they are conspiring to weaken the fourth pillar of democracy.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti's daughter and media advisor Iltija Mufti said the decision to boycott the anchors was long overdue.

"INDIA alliance's decision to boycott godi media anchors who only spew vitriol was long overdue. Their venomous shows have put the masses on a slow drip of bigotry by demonising minorities," she posted on X.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

NEW DELHI: The opposition alliance INDIA on Thursday announced that it will boycott shows of 14 television anchors on several platforms, a decision the BJP compared with the Emergency. The News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) said the boycott sets a dangerous precedent and goes against the ethos of democracy. The media committee of the bloc took the decision to boycott the programmes of these journalists and not send their representatives on debates hosted by them on such channels or platforms.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "Pursuant to the decision taken by INDIA Coordination Committee in its meeting on September 13, 2023, the INDIA parties will not send their representatives on the shows and events of the following anchors," a statement from the media committee of the opposition bloc said while listing the names of such journalists. Justifying the action, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera, who is a part of the committee of opposition parties that took the decision in their virtual meeting, said some channels have put up a "nafrat ka bazaar" (market for hatred) for the last nine years. The BJP condemned the move with its chief spokesperson and MP Anil Baluni saying in a statement that opposition parties have displayed their repressive, dictatorial and negative mindset. The BJP strongly opposes such a distorted mindset which curbs the freedom of expression, he said. "The media was throttled during the Emergency and these 'ghamandia' alliance parties continue to work with the same anarchic and Emergency mindset," he said, alleging that such an "open threat" to the media amounted to suppressing the voice of people. Khera, however, asserted that the INDIA parties have decided not to legitimise this "hate-filled narrative" which is corroding our society, he noted. "That was the idea behind this decision," he said, adding that the opposition bloc does not want to be a party to any such action which adds hatred in society. "We are not opposed to any of the anchors, but we do not want to be a party to such endeavours," Khera said, adding that they can create memes or target their leaders but will not create such an atmosphere. "We will not be customers in this market of this hate," he asserted. "We have taken this decision and issued this list with a heavy heart. We hope these anchors will do some introspection and take some corrective measures," the Congress leader also said. Union minister Hardeep Puri compared the move to the Emergency that curbed media rights. "The only instance we have seen of civil liberties being curtailed in India was during the Emergency in 1975," he said in a post on X. "Open calls for eradication of Sanatan Dharma, FIRs against journalists and boycott of media reflect politics of those dark years of Emergency. True face of I.N.D.I. Alliance," he said. Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur also hit out at the opposition bloc, saying this move shows their desperation. Addressing a public meeting in Rajasthan's Bhilwara, he said, "Everyday, the leaders of Congress and their allies say they will destroy Sanatan Dharma and leave no stone unturned to insult Hindus. Now they have even started boycotting journalists and are filing cases. Be it in Chennai or Bengal, they are filing cases out of desperation and panic, and at the same time they are saying that they will eradicate Sanatan Dharma." Baluni said the opposition's decision also suggests that these parties are unable to face the truth. It seems the opposition alliance is under some outside influence to target the media's freedom, he said. "The BJP requests all media organisations and journalists dedicated to their duties to oppose such a distorted mindset while discharging their duties honestly," he said. They should not fear this dictatorial mindset of the opposition's alliance and follow the higher values of working without fear or favour, the BJP leader said. The BJP's IT department head Amit Malviya also took to X to say, "So I.N.D.I. Alliance has released a list of journalists, who refused to even bend, when the Opposition expected them to crawl. They should wear it as a badge of honour. More power to them..." The AAP also shared the list of journalists and the statement issued by the INDIA media committee on its X handle using the hashtag "#JudegaBharatJeetegaIndia". The News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) expressed anguish and concern over the decision, saying it sets a dangerous precedent. The boycott goes against the ethos of democracy, the association said. "It betokens intolerance and imperils press freedom. The opposition alliance claims to be the champion of pluralism and a free press, but its decision betrays callous disregard for democracy's most fundamental tenet - the inalienable right to openly express ideas and opinions." The boycott of certain journalists/anchors takes the nation back to the Emergency era, when the press was gagged, and independent opinions and voices were crushed," the NBDA said, urging the opposition alliance to withdraw its decision that amounts to browbeating journalists and stifling freedom of speech and expression. Meanwhile, the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) termed the boycott an attack on democracy. The NUJ took strong exception to the INDIA parties' boycott of some journalists and condemned the same, alleging that the opposition parties have politicised the media. The president of National Union of Journalists linked to the International Federation of Journalists, Ras Bihari, said in a statement that this decision of the opposition parties is a "black chapter" of repression on the media in India's democratic history. "This is totally wrong and unacceptable," he said, adding that this reflects the lack of democratic values in these parties. "The opposition alliance of 26 parties has shamed democracy through this action of boycott," he said, adding that they are conspiring to weaken the fourth pillar of democracy. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti's daughter and media advisor Iltija Mufti said the decision to boycott the anchors was long overdue. "INDIA alliance's decision to boycott godi media anchors who only spew vitriol was long overdue. Their venomous shows have put the masses on a slow drip of bigotry by demonising minorities," she posted on X. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Online Desk

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday termed the opposition INDIA alliance as "ghamandia" (arrogant) and alleged that it wants to destroy Sanatan Dharma.

Addressing a massive gathering at Bina in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, he accused the INDIA bloc of having an agenda to end the country's 'Sanatan' culture.

"At a time when Bharat is emerging as a world leader at global forums, some parties are trying to divide the country and its people. These people came together to form an 'INDI' alliance. Some people are calling it a 'ghamndiya' (arrogant) alliance. They dont have a leader yet and there is a lot of suspense on who would lead them going into the Lok Sabha elections next year. They are working with a hidden agenda, which is to attack India's culture," Modi claimed.

The Prime Minister's remarks today came after laying the foundation stone of a Rs 49,000 crore-worth petrochemicals complex at Bina refinery in the Sagar district of Madhya Pradesh along with 10 industrial projects in the state.

He alleged that the Opposition bloc, at its third meeting in Mumbai, adopted a resolution to "end Santan culture" in the country. "This INDI-alliance adopted a resolution to end our 'Sanatan' culture. They are bent on destroying the ideologies, cultures and traditions that have kept the country and our people together for centuries," Modi claimed.

The Prime Minister's statement comes in the wake of remarks made by DMK leader and Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who said Sanatan Dharma is against social justice and that it should be eradicated.

Last week, Modi had mentioned that Udhayanidhi's remarks needed a proper response during a meeting of his council of ministers.

ALSO READ | Modi and co using Sanatana ploy to divert attention, says Udhayanidhi

Similarly, another DMK leader A Raja went a step further and allegedly compared Sanatana Dharma to diseases like HIV-AIDS and leprosy during a public meeting last week.

The issue has stroked a tumultuous war of words between BJP-backed right-wing outfits who have targeted the INDIA alliance over DMK leaders' remarks.

In his speech, PM Modi credited 140 crore people of India for the success of the G-20 Summit and said it has raised the pride of people and the country.

Targeting the Congress, the PM said those who ruled Madhya Pradesh for a long time did nothing else other than corruption and crime.

He announced that the government will provide 75 lakh new gas connections in the country. "Rs 50,000 crore projects being set up in Madhya Pradesh, which will give impetus to the state's development," he said.

ALSO READ | Stalin slams Modi, BJP's attack on Udhayanidhi, says check your facts

(With inputs from ANI and PTI)

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday termed the opposition INDIA alliance as "ghamandia" (arrogant) and alleged that it wants to destroy Sanatan Dharma. Addressing a massive gathering at Bina in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, he accused the INDIA bloc of having an agenda to end the country's 'Sanatan' culture. "At a time when Bharat is emerging as a world leader at global forums, some parties are trying to divide the country and its people. These people came together to form an 'INDI' alliance. Some people are calling it a 'ghamndiya' (arrogant) alliance. They dont have a leader yet and there is a lot of suspense on who would lead them going into the Lok Sabha elections next year. They are working with a hidden agenda, which is to attack India's culture," Modi claimed.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The Prime Minister's remarks today came after laying the foundation stone of a Rs 49,000 crore-worth petrochemicals complex at Bina refinery in the Sagar district of Madhya Pradesh along with 10 industrial projects in the state. He alleged that the Opposition bloc, at its third meeting in Mumbai, adopted a resolution to "end Santan culture" in the country. "This INDI-alliance adopted a resolution to end our 'Sanatan' culture. They are bent on destroying the ideologies, cultures and traditions that have kept the country and our people together for centuries," Modi claimed. The Prime Minister's statement comes in the wake of remarks made by DMK leader and Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who said Sanatan Dharma is against social justice and that it should be eradicated. Last week, Modi had mentioned that Udhayanidhi's remarks needed a proper response during a meeting of his council of ministers. ALSO READ | Modi and co using Sanatana ploy to divert attention, says Udhayanidhi Similarly, another DMK leader A Raja went a step further and allegedly compared Sanatana Dharma to diseases like HIV-AIDS and leprosy during a public meeting last week. The issue has stroked a tumultuous war of words between BJP-backed right-wing outfits who have targeted the INDIA alliance over DMK leaders' remarks. In his speech, PM Modi credited 140 crore people of India for the success of the G-20 Summit and said it has raised the pride of people and the country. Targeting the Congress, the PM said those who ruled Madhya Pradesh for a long time did nothing else other than corruption and crime. He announced that the government will provide 75 lakh new gas connections in the country. "Rs 50,000 crore projects being set up in Madhya Pradesh, which will give impetus to the state's development," he said. ALSO READ | Stalin slams Modi, BJP's attack on Udhayanidhi, says check your facts (With inputs from ANI and PTI) Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

NEW DELHI: BJP chief J P Nadda on Thursday launched an offensive against the opposition INDIA block alleging that its constituents are doing just two things bashing the 'Sanatan' culture and bullying the media.

"The Emergency era mindset is alive among these parties," he charged in a post on 'X'.

The BJP national president also said, "INDIA block should stop their antics immediately. They should instead focus on constructive work and serving people. Otherwise, the path to obscurity will get even clearer."

I. N. D. I Alliance should stop their antics immediately. They should instead focus on constructive work and serving people. Else, the path to obscurity will get even clearer.  Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) September 14, 2023

Nadda's remarks came a day after Congress general secretary K C Venugopal told reporters that the coordination committee of the INDIA bloc authorised the sub-group on media to decide upon the names of the anchors on whose shows none of the opposition alliance members will send their representatives.

"These days, the I.N.D.I A is only doing two things. Bashing Sanatan Sanskriti (culture) and bullying the media," the BJP chief alleged, adding that each party in the opposition alliance is competing to outdo the other in hurling the choicest abuses towards Sanatan Sanskriti.

"Bullying the media, filing FIRs, threatening individual journalists, making lists in true Nazi style of who to target," he added.

The BJP chief claimed the history of the Congress has many instances of bullying the media and silencing those with differing views.

"Pandit Nehru curtailed free speech and arrested those who criticised him. Indira Ji remains the Gold Medal winner of how to do it, called for committed judiciary, committed bureaucracy and imposed the horrific Emergency," he charged.

"Rajiv Ji tried to bring the media under state control but failed miserably," he alleged, adding that the Sonia (Gandhi)-led UPA was banning social media handles simply because Congress did not like their views.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

NEW DELHI: BJP chief J P Nadda on Thursday launched an offensive against the opposition INDIA block alleging that its constituents are doing just two things bashing the 'Sanatan' culture and bullying the media. "The Emergency era mindset is alive among these parties," he charged in a post on 'X'. The BJP national president also said, "INDIA block should stop their antics immediately. They should instead focus on constructive work and serving people. Otherwise, the path to obscurity will get even clearer."googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); I. N. D. I Alliance should stop their antics immediately. They should instead focus on constructive work and serving people. Else, the path to obscurity will get even clearer.  Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) September 14, 2023 Nadda's remarks came a day after Congress general secretary K C Venugopal told reporters that the coordination committee of the INDIA bloc authorised the sub-group on media to decide upon the names of the anchors on whose shows none of the opposition alliance members will send their representatives. "These days, the I.N.D.I A is only doing two things. Bashing Sanatan Sanskriti (culture) and bullying the media," the BJP chief alleged, adding that each party in the opposition alliance is competing to outdo the other in hurling the choicest abuses towards Sanatan Sanskriti. "Bullying the media, filing FIRs, threatening individual journalists, making lists in true Nazi style of who to target," he added. The BJP chief claimed the history of the Congress has many instances of bullying the media and silencing those with differing views. "Pandit Nehru curtailed free speech and arrested those who criticised him. Indira Ji remains the Gold Medal winner of how to do it, called for committed judiciary, committed bureaucracy and imposed the horrific Emergency," he charged. "Rajiv Ji tried to bring the media under state control but failed miserably," he alleged, adding that the Sonia (Gandhi)-led UPA was banning social media handles simply because Congress did not like their views. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

CHANDIGARH: Scores of people turned up on Thursday at the residences of Colonel Manpreet Singh and Major Ashish Dhonchak, killed in a gunfight with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag, to mourn the loss, with some saying the Army should give a befitting reply to the ultras for the cowardly act.

A number of villagers turned up at the houses of Singh (in Mohali's Mullanpur) and Dhonchak (in Panipat) in the morning.

The families of the two slain Army officers were inconsolable.

Officials said the bodies of the two deceased officers have been brought to the Army's 92 Base Hospital in Srinagar.

The mortal remains of the two are expected to reach their respective places by the evening or early next morning, the family members said.

They said Singh's wife, a school teacher in Panchkula district, was given the news of her husband's death in the morning, after being told on Wednesday that he was seriously injured.

A third-generation soldier, Singh has also left behind a two-year-old daughter and a six-year-old son.

Dhonchak's family includes his wife, a two-year-old daughter and three sisters.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and his Haryana counterpart Manohar Lal Khattar took to X and paid tributes to the slain officers.

Those who turned up to express grief and be with the families in this tragic hour said the Army should give a befitting reply to the terrorists.

"Everyone knows that Pakistan has waged a proxy war. Our Army should give a befitting reply once and for all, so that no mother has to mourn the loss of her son, no sister loses her brother again in this manner, no wife loses her husband and no child loses its father," an elderly man who lives in Dhonchak's neighbourhood told reporters in Panipat.

ALSO READ | Jammu and Kashmir: Second militant killed in Rajouri encounter, toll in gunfight rises to three

J&K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha with DGP Dilbag Singh meet the family of Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police Humayun Bhat. (PTI)

In Mullanpur, Singh's wailing mother Manjit Kaur said, "The government should eliminate terrorists. It should take a tough decision now."

"My colonel, my son has been killed," she said.

Kaur said she spoke to her son on Sunday afternoon and he had told her that he would soon come home on leave.

She said he was around 40 years of age and she has lost him after losing his father, also an ex-serviceman, in 2014.

Singh's sister said she spoke to him on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan recently.

He had only a few months left for his present tenure in his current place of posting, she said with tears rolling down her eyes.

Manpreet Singh's uncle Harmel Singh said his nephew was always keen to join the Army.

"We are proud of his supreme sacrifice for the nation. He was a brave officer. In another encounter earlier, he had neutralised two terrorists," he said.

Manjeet Kaur and Sandeep Kaur, mother and sister of Colonel Manpreet Singh of Indian Army, mourn his death, near Chandigarh. (PTI)

The slain colonel's brother Sandeep said the former had visited home in January for a week.

He had said he would again come home in December, he said.

While Dhonchak's family lives in Panipat's Sector 7, his native village is Binjhol in Panipat district.

His family said he was supposed to come home on leave next month.

Manpreet Singh's in-laws live in Panchkula's Sector 26.

His wife's brother told reporters in Panchkula that they received information of the tragedy on Wednesday evening.

However, Singh's wife was informed about it only on Thursday morning, he said.

People during the funeral of DSP of J&K Police Humayun Bhat at his residence in Srinagar. (PTI)

Holding on to his two-year-old granddaughter Bani, Singh's father-in-law Jagdev told reporters that the slain officer had received the Sena Medal last year.

Harmel Singh told reporters that since childhood, the deceased officer had shown leadership qualities.

"He was always smiling and ready to help others," he said.

Another relative of the slain colonel said they spoke to him on Wednesday morning and never knew that this would be their last conversation with him.

A relative of Dhonchak told reporters in Panipat that he sacrificed his life for the sake of the country.

His brother Ashish said he was lucky to have him as his elder brother.

Ashish was to shift to a new house in Panipat in October.

The family got the house built as it was living in a rented accommodation.

Three Army personnel, including the colonel and the major, and a deputy superintendent of the Jammu and Kashmir Police were killed in the gunfight with terrorists in the higher reaches of the Kokorenag area in the valley.

Singh, the commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Dhonchak and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat were critically injured in the gunfight that ensued in the Garol area of Anantnag district in the morning hours of Wednesday.

The officers succumbed to their injuries during treatment.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

CHANDIGARH: Scores of people turned up on Thursday at the residences of Colonel Manpreet Singh and Major Ashish Dhonchak, killed in a gunfight with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag, to mourn the loss, with some saying the Army should give a befitting reply to the ultras for the cowardly act. A number of villagers turned up at the houses of Singh (in Mohali's Mullanpur) and Dhonchak (in Panipat) in the morning. The families of the two slain Army officers were inconsolable.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Officials said the bodies of the two deceased officers have been brought to the Army's 92 Base Hospital in Srinagar. The mortal remains of the two are expected to reach their respective places by the evening or early next morning, the family members said. They said Singh's wife, a school teacher in Panchkula district, was given the news of her husband's death in the morning, after being told on Wednesday that he was seriously injured. A third-generation soldier, Singh has also left behind a two-year-old daughter and a six-year-old son. Dhonchak's family includes his wife, a two-year-old daughter and three sisters. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and his Haryana counterpart Manohar Lal Khattar took to X and paid tributes to the slain officers. Those who turned up to express grief and be with the families in this tragic hour said the Army should give a befitting reply to the terrorists. "Everyone knows that Pakistan has waged a proxy war. Our Army should give a befitting reply once and for all, so that no mother has to mourn the loss of her son, no sister loses her brother again in this manner, no wife loses her husband and no child loses its father," an elderly man who lives in Dhonchak's neighbourhood told reporters in Panipat. ALSO READ | Jammu and Kashmir: Second militant killed in Rajouri encounter, toll in gunfight rises to three J&K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha with DGP Dilbag Singh meet the family of Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police Humayun Bhat. (PTI) In Mullanpur, Singh's wailing mother Manjit Kaur said, "The government should eliminate terrorists. It should take a tough decision now." "My colonel, my son has been killed," she said. Kaur said she spoke to her son on Sunday afternoon and he had told her that he would soon come home on leave. She said he was around 40 years of age and she has lost him after losing his father, also an ex-serviceman, in 2014. Singh's sister said she spoke to him on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan recently. He had only a few months left for his present tenure in his current place of posting, she said with tears rolling down her eyes. Manpreet Singh's uncle Harmel Singh said his nephew was always keen to join the Army. "We are proud of his supreme sacrifice for the nation. He was a brave officer. In another encounter earlier, he had neutralised two terrorists," he said. Manjeet Kaur and Sandeep Kaur, mother and sister of Colonel Manpreet Singh of Indian Army, mourn his death, near Chandigarh. (PTI) The slain colonel's brother Sandeep said the former had visited home in January for a week. He had said he would again come home in December, he said. While Dhonchak's family lives in Panipat's Sector 7, his native village is Binjhol in Panipat district. His family said he was supposed to come home on leave next month. Manpreet Singh's in-laws live in Panchkula's Sector 26. His wife's brother told reporters in Panchkula that they received information of the tragedy on Wednesday evening. However, Singh's wife was informed about it only on Thursday morning, he said. People during the funeral of DSP of J&K Police Humayun Bhat at his residence in Srinagar. (PTI) Holding on to his two-year-old granddaughter Bani, Singh's father-in-law Jagdev told reporters that the slain officer had received the Sena Medal last year. Harmel Singh told reporters that since childhood, the deceased officer had shown leadership qualities. "He was always smiling and ready to help others," he said. Another relative of the slain colonel said they spoke to him on Wednesday morning and never knew that this would be their last conversation with him. A relative of Dhonchak told reporters in Panipat that he sacrificed his life for the sake of the country. His brother Ashish said he was lucky to have him as his elder brother. Ashish was to shift to a new house in Panipat in October. The family got the house built as it was living in a rented accommodation. Three Army personnel, including the colonel and the major, and a deputy superintendent of the Jammu and Kashmir Police were killed in the gunfight with terrorists in the higher reaches of the Kokorenag area in the valley. Singh, the commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Dhonchak and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat were critically injured in the gunfight that ensued in the Garol area of Anantnag district in the morning hours of Wednesday. The officers succumbed to their injuries during treatment. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

AURANGABAD: Manoj Jarange Patil, who was on a hunger strike to demand reservation for the Maratha community, on Thursday ended his fast on the 17th day of his protest after Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde met him and assured that the government was committed to providing quota to Marathas.

CM Shinde, accompanied by some of his ministerial colleagues and other leaders, arrived in Antarwali Sarati village in Jalna district around 10.45 am.

The CM met Jarange and held talks with him for some time.

Around 11.15 am, Jarange ended his fast by drinking a glass of juice offered by CM Shinde.

His hunger strike to press for the demand of reservation in government jobs and education to the Maratha community, was on since August 29.

On September 1, police had lathi-charged a gathering at Antarwali Sarati village during Jarange's hunger strike, leading to angry reactions in many parts of the state.

Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister said his government was committed to providing reservation to the Maratha community.

"The Maharashtra government is committed to giving reservation that will sustain. The government is in favour of it and it will not stop without giving reservation to the community and that will be done without any friction with other communities. Manoj Jarange's fight is not for any personal demand and that is why it received so much support from the community," he said.

ALSO READ | Maratha quota issue: Maha CM in viral video says 'We just need to speak & leave, right?'; gets trolled

In the past, the government provided reservation to the community, but it could not stand in the Supreme Court. The present government is working on giving to the Maratha community all benefits which have been provided to the Other Backward Classes (OBC) community.

We are working through a dedicated commission to restore the reservation, he added.

The state government has set up a five-member panel headed by Judge Sandeep Shinde (retired) to determine the Standard Operating Procedures, including legal and administrative framework, for giving caste certificates to Maratha community members referred to as Kunbis (part of OBCs now) in Nizam-era documents.

This will allow Marathas from the Marathwada region to avail quota benefits under the OBC category.

The CM said, "Justice Shinde committee is working on the Maratha community's demand of getting Kunbi caste certificates. The committee held a meeting earlier and another one will take place on Friday. The committee is studying how the community is socially and educationally backward, and it will prepare a comprehensive report to decide how Kunbi certificates can be issued."

He asked Jarange to suggest a name of an expert, who can be included as a member in the committee.

"We will welcome if anyone from Jarange's side is willing to join the committee. The government is working to fit the reservation issue in the legal framework," he said.

CM Shinde was accompanied by Union Minister of State for Railways Raosaheb Danve, Maharashtra ministers Sandipan Bhumre, Uday Samant, Girish Mahajan, Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) leader Arjun Khotkar, NCP MLA Rajesh Tope and others.

Shinde said 3,700 Maratha youths, who were shortlisted for government jobs after an interview when the Supreme Court scrapped the quota for the community, will be given jobs.

Fund allocation for Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Research, Training and Human Development Institute (SARTHI) will be increased, while the budget of Annasaheb Patil Economic Development Corporation has been increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh, he said.

"We are committed to restoring quota for the Maratha community in jobs and education. Marathas are a disciplined and sensitive community," Shinde said, adding that the September 1 lathi-charge on protesters was unfortunate.

ALSO READ | Maratha quota leader Jarange Patil calls off 12-day-long hunger strike but he has five conditions

State Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis has publicly apologised and he also has expressed regret over the incident.

Action has been taken against the police officials concerned, the CM said, while also assuring that cases against protesters will be withdrawn.

Speaking on the occasion, Jarange said, "This is for the first time that a chief minister has come to the site of agitation to stop someone from continuing the hunger strike. I will not stop unless the Maratha community is given reservation and this is also the policy of CM Eknath Shinde."

"We have given one month's time to the state government with the consent of members of the community. We will also give 10 more days if the government wants, but we need reservation for Marathas," he added.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

AURANGABAD: Manoj Jarange Patil, who was on a hunger strike to demand reservation for the Maratha community, on Thursday ended his fast on the 17th day of his protest after Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde met him and assured that the government was committed to providing quota to Marathas. CM Shinde, accompanied by some of his ministerial colleagues and other leaders, arrived in Antarwali Sarati village in Jalna district around 10.45 am. The CM met Jarange and held talks with him for some time.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Around 11.15 am, Jarange ended his fast by drinking a glass of juice offered by CM Shinde. His hunger strike to press for the demand of reservation in government jobs and education to the Maratha community, was on since August 29. On September 1, police had lathi-charged a gathering at Antarwali Sarati village during Jarange's hunger strike, leading to angry reactions in many parts of the state. Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister said his government was committed to providing reservation to the Maratha community. "The Maharashtra government is committed to giving reservation that will sustain. The government is in favour of it and it will not stop without giving reservation to the community and that will be done without any friction with other communities. Manoj Jarange's fight is not for any personal demand and that is why it received so much support from the community," he said. ALSO READ | Maratha quota issue: Maha CM in viral video says 'We just need to speak & leave, right?'; gets trolled In the past, the government provided reservation to the community, but it could not stand in the Supreme Court. The present government is working on giving to the Maratha community all benefits which have been provided to the Other Backward Classes (OBC) community. We are working through a dedicated commission to restore the reservation, he added. The state government has set up a five-member panel headed by Judge Sandeep Shinde (retired) to determine the Standard Operating Procedures, including legal and administrative framework, for giving caste certificates to Maratha community members referred to as Kunbis (part of OBCs now) in Nizam-era documents. This will allow Marathas from the Marathwada region to avail quota benefits under the OBC category. The CM said, "Justice Shinde committee is working on the Maratha community's demand of getting Kunbi caste certificates. The committee held a meeting earlier and another one will take place on Friday. The committee is studying how the community is socially and educationally backward, and it will prepare a comprehensive report to decide how Kunbi certificates can be issued." He asked Jarange to suggest a name of an expert, who can be included as a member in the committee. "We will welcome if anyone from Jarange's side is willing to join the committee. The government is working to fit the reservation issue in the legal framework," he said. CM Shinde was accompanied by Union Minister of State for Railways Raosaheb Danve, Maharashtra ministers Sandipan Bhumre, Uday Samant, Girish Mahajan, Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) leader Arjun Khotkar, NCP MLA Rajesh Tope and others. Shinde said 3,700 Maratha youths, who were shortlisted for government jobs after an interview when the Supreme Court scrapped the quota for the community, will be given jobs. Fund allocation for Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Research, Training and Human Development Institute (SARTHI) will be increased, while the budget of Annasaheb Patil Economic Development Corporation has been increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh, he said. "We are committed to restoring quota for the Maratha community in jobs and education. Marathas are a disciplined and sensitive community," Shinde said, adding that the September 1 lathi-charge on protesters was unfortunate. ALSO READ | Maratha quota leader Jarange Patil calls off 12-day-long hunger strike but he has five conditions State Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis has publicly apologised and he also has expressed regret over the incident. Action has been taken against the police officials concerned, the CM said, while also assuring that cases against protesters will be withdrawn. Speaking on the occasion, Jarange said, "This is for the first time that a chief minister has come to the site of agitation to stop someone from continuing the hunger strike. I will not stop unless the Maratha community is given reservation and this is also the policy of CM Eknath Shinde." "We have given one month's time to the state government with the consent of members of the community. We will also give 10 more days if the government wants, but we need reservation for Marathas," he added. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Preetha Nair By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Preparing the ground for the impending state and Lok Sabha elections, the Opposition INDIA bloc on Wednesday decided to begin seat-sharing talks at the earliest and hold its first joint public rally in Bhopal in October first week.

The decisions were taken at the first meeting of the blocs coordination and election strategy committee at NCP leader Sharad Pawars Delhi residence. It was attended by 12 member parties. TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee could not make it as he was summoned by the Enforcement Directorate.

A joint statement after the meeting said the committee decided to hold joint public meetings in different parts of the country. The parties also agreed to take up the issue of caste census. Besides, the panel authorised the sub-committee on media to draw up a list of TV news anchors the INDIA parties will boycott.

While most of the leaders stressed an early decision on seat sharing, they said state-level committees would be formed for negotiations. At the blocs Mumbai meeting, TMC, JD(U), AAP, and RJD pressed for an early decision on seat sharing. When asked about the tussle between the AAP and the Congress in states like Delhi, Haryana and Punjab, AAP leader Raghav Chadha said those issues will be discussed.

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah suggested that seats already held by allies should not be open for discussion. We should discuss those seats that are held by either the BJP, NDA or parties not part of any alliance. It has been decided that parties will nominate their various representatives at whatever levels appropriate for them to start discussion, he said.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

NEW DELHI: Preparing the ground for the impending state and Lok Sabha elections, the Opposition INDIA bloc on Wednesday decided to begin seat-sharing talks at the earliest and hold its first joint public rally in Bhopal in October first week. The decisions were taken at the first meeting of the blocs coordination and election strategy committee at NCP leader Sharad Pawars Delhi residence. It was attended by 12 member parties. TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee could not make it as he was summoned by the Enforcement Directorate. A joint statement after the meeting said the committee decided to hold joint public meetings in different parts of the country. The parties also agreed to take up the issue of caste census. Besides, the panel authorised the sub-committee on media to draw up a list of TV news anchors the INDIA parties will boycott. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); While most of the leaders stressed an early decision on seat sharing, they said state-level committees would be formed for negotiations. At the blocs Mumbai meeting, TMC, JD(U), AAP, and RJD pressed for an early decision on seat sharing. When asked about the tussle between the AAP and the Congress in states like Delhi, Haryana and Punjab, AAP leader Raghav Chadha said those issues will be discussed. National Conference leader Omar Abdullah suggested that seats already held by allies should not be open for discussion. We should discuss those seats that are held by either the BJP, NDA or parties not part of any alliance. It has been decided that parties will nominate their various representatives at whatever levels appropriate for them to start discussion, he said. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The annual three-day All Bharat Coordination Committee meeting of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh began in Maharashtra's Pune city on Thursday, with 267 representatives from 36 RSS-affiliated outfits attending the conclave.

The meeting carries a lot of significance as the Sangh along with other RSS-inspired organizations will deliberate upon various issues for the next two days from September 14 to 14 here.

Issues related to current national and social scenarios, education, service, economy and national security are on the agenda.

It will also elaborate on social related to topics like environment, kutumb-prabodhan (family enlightenment), social cohesiveness, Swadesh behaviour and civil duties, the RSS claimed in a statement issued here on Thursday.

It also added that the RSS along with others from various organizations will discuss the organization's expansion and social experiments.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat with RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale during the 'Akhil Bharatiya Samanvay Baithak' of RSS, in Pune (PTI)

The meeting began with the offering of flowers to an image of the Bharat Mata by RSS chief Dr Mohan Bhagwat and Sarkaryawah Dattatreya Hosable as per the tradition of the Sangh.

Those participating in the meeting include RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Sarkaryavah Dattatrey Hosabale, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president J P Nadda and representatives of organisations like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Rashtriya Seva Bharti, Vanwasi Kalyan Ashram, Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad, Bhartiya Kisan Sangh, Sanskrit Bharti and Bhartiya Majdoor Sangh, as per a release from the RSS.

The meeting is being attended by 267 office-bearers including 30 sisters of 36 organizations affiliated to RSS.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

NEW DELHI: The annual three-day All Bharat Coordination Committee meeting of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh began in Maharashtra's Pune city on Thursday, with 267 representatives from 36 RSS-affiliated outfits attending the conclave. The meeting carries a lot of significance as the Sangh along with other RSS-inspired organizations will deliberate upon various issues for the next two days from September 14 to 14 here. Issues related to current national and social scenarios, education, service, economy and national security are on the agenda.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); It will also elaborate on social related to topics like environment, kutumb-prabodhan (family enlightenment), social cohesiveness, Swadesh behaviour and civil duties, the RSS claimed in a statement issued here on Thursday. It also added that the RSS along with others from various organizations will discuss the organization's expansion and social experiments. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat with RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale during the 'Akhil Bharatiya Samanvay Baithak' of RSS, in Pune (PTI) The meeting began with the offering of flowers to an image of the Bharat Mata by RSS chief Dr Mohan Bhagwat and Sarkaryawah Dattatreya Hosable as per the tradition of the Sangh. Those participating in the meeting include RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Sarkaryavah Dattatrey Hosabale, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president J P Nadda and representatives of organisations like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Rashtriya Seva Bharti, Vanwasi Kalyan Ashram, Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad, Bhartiya Kisan Sangh, Sanskrit Bharti and Bhartiya Majdoor Sangh, as per a release from the RSS. The meeting is being attended by 267 office-bearers including 30 sisters of 36 organizations affiliated to RSS. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

CHANDIGARH: Scores of people on Thursday turned up at the residences of Colonel Manpreet Singh and Major Ashish Dhonchak, killed in a gunfight with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag, to mourn the loss, with some saying the Army should give a befitting reply to the ultras for the cowardly act.

A number of villagers turned up at the houses of Singh (in Mohali's Mullanpur) and Dhonchak (in Panipat) in the morning. The families of the two slain Army officers were inconsolable.

The mortal remains of the two are expected to reach their respective places by the evening, the family members said. Officials said the bodies of the two deceased officers have been brought to the Army's 92 Base Hospital in Srinagar.

They said Singh's wife, a lecturer in a college, was given the news of her husband's death in the morning after being told on Wednesday that he was seriously injured. A third-generation soldier, Singh has left behind a two-year-old daughter and a six-year-old son.

Dhonchak's family includes his wife, a two-year-old daughter and three sisters. Those who turned up to express grief and be with the families in this tragic hour said the Army should give a befitting reply to the terrorists.

"Everyone knows that Pakistan has waged a proxy war. Our Army should give a befitting reply once and for all, so that no mother has to mourn the loss of her son, no sister loses her brother again in this manner, no wife loses her husband and no child loses its father," an elderly man who lives in Dhonchak's neighbourhood told reporters in Panipat.

While Dhonchak's family lives in Panipat's Sector 7, his native village is Binjhol in Panipat district. His family said he was supposed to come home on leave next month. Singh's in-laws live in Panchkula's Sector 26 in Haryana.

His wife's brother told reporters in Panchkula that they received information about the tragedy on Wednesday evening. However, Singh's wife was informed about it only on Thursday morning, he said.

Holding on to his two-year-old granddaughter, Singh's father-in-law Jagdev told reporters that the slain officer had received the Sena Medal last year. Singh's uncle told reporters that since childhood, the deceased officer had shown leadership qualities.

"He was always smiling and ready to help others," he said.

A relative of Dhonchak told reporters in Panipat that he sacrificed his life for the sake of the country.

Three Army personnel, including the colonel and the major, and a deputy superintendent of the Jammu and Kashmir Police were killed in the gunfight with terrorists in the higher reaches of the Kokorenag area in the valley.

Singh, the commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Dhonchak and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat were critically injured in the gunfight that ensued in the Garol area of Anantnag district in the morning hours of Wednesday. The officers succumbed to their injuries during treatment.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

CHANDIGARH: Scores of people on Thursday turned up at the residences of Colonel Manpreet Singh and Major Ashish Dhonchak, killed in a gunfight with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag, to mourn the loss, with some saying the Army should give a befitting reply to the ultras for the cowardly act. A number of villagers turned up at the houses of Singh (in Mohali's Mullanpur) and Dhonchak (in Panipat) in the morning. The families of the two slain Army officers were inconsolable. The mortal remains of the two are expected to reach their respective places by the evening, the family members said. Officials said the bodies of the two deceased officers have been brought to the Army's 92 Base Hospital in Srinagar.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); They said Singh's wife, a lecturer in a college, was given the news of her husband's death in the morning after being told on Wednesday that he was seriously injured. A third-generation soldier, Singh has left behind a two-year-old daughter and a six-year-old son. Dhonchak's family includes his wife, a two-year-old daughter and three sisters. Those who turned up to express grief and be with the families in this tragic hour said the Army should give a befitting reply to the terrorists. "Everyone knows that Pakistan has waged a proxy war. Our Army should give a befitting reply once and for all, so that no mother has to mourn the loss of her son, no sister loses her brother again in this manner, no wife loses her husband and no child loses its father," an elderly man who lives in Dhonchak's neighbourhood told reporters in Panipat. While Dhonchak's family lives in Panipat's Sector 7, his native village is Binjhol in Panipat district. His family said he was supposed to come home on leave next month. Singh's in-laws live in Panchkula's Sector 26 in Haryana. His wife's brother told reporters in Panchkula that they received information about the tragedy on Wednesday evening. However, Singh's wife was informed about it only on Thursday morning, he said. Holding on to his two-year-old granddaughter, Singh's father-in-law Jagdev told reporters that the slain officer had received the Sena Medal last year. Singh's uncle told reporters that since childhood, the deceased officer had shown leadership qualities. "He was always smiling and ready to help others," he said. A relative of Dhonchak told reporters in Panipat that he sacrificed his life for the sake of the country. Three Army personnel, including the colonel and the major, and a deputy superintendent of the Jammu and Kashmir Police were killed in the gunfight with terrorists in the higher reaches of the Kokorenag area in the valley. Singh, the commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Dhonchak and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat were critically injured in the gunfight that ensued in the Garol area of Anantnag district in the morning hours of Wednesday. The officers succumbed to their injuries during treatment. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Namita Bajpai By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW: The special court of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Lucknow, on Thursday, pronounced a death sentence to two terror accused Atif Muzaffar (29) and Mohammed Faisal Khan (30) associated with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The two were held guilty of killing a retired school principal Ram Babu Shukla in fulfilment and furtherance of the ISIS agenda by spreading fear and terror among the people.

The special court also slapped a penalty of Rs 5 lakh on both the accused. The verdict was delivered by Special Judge NIA Court Dinesh Kumar Mishra. The two accused were booked and tried under sections of IPC 302 (murder), 120 B (criminal conspiracy), along with sections of Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

Both Atif and Faisal were also named in the terror attack case related to the Bhopal-Ujjain passenger train on March 7, 2017, leaving scores of passengers on board injured.

The two accused were caught by the UP Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) during an encounter in the old Lucknow city area in March 2017 during which another accomplice Saifullah was gunned down. Besides Atif Muzaffar and Mohammad Faisal Khan, the ATS had also arrested Ghaus Mohammad Khan, Azhar, Mohammad Danish, Sayyad Mir, Hussain and Asif Iqbal.

ALSO READ | Kerala-based ISIS group planned to loot churches & temples for funds

However, the death sentence to Atif Muzaffar and Mohammad Faisal Khan has been given in connection with the murder of Ram Babu Shukla, a retired principal of a school in Kanpur.

Shukla had retired as principal of Swami Atmaprakash Brahmchari Junior High School in Kanpur. On October 24, 2016, he was shot dead by the two accused near village Pyondi in Kanpur while he was returning home on a bicycle. The case was handed over to the NIA in November, 2017. Atif worked at a mobile repair store while Faisal was working at a general store.

After the investigations, the NIA revealed that the accused were radicalised by the ISIS ideology and were out to kill people whom they believed to be disbelievers of Islam (Qafirs). The NIA had filed a chargesheet against the two accused on July 12, 2018 stating that the accused attacked Shukla in a lone wolf style.

The NIA also revealed that the two had planned to bomb PM Modis Dussehra rally in Lucknow in 2016.

The NIA had stated in the chargesheet that both Atif and Faisal had visited West Bengal and Kerala to procure arms for training and bomb making. The two had also tried to visit Syria via Pakistan.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

LUCKNOW: The special court of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Lucknow, on Thursday, pronounced a death sentence to two terror accused Atif Muzaffar (29) and Mohammed Faisal Khan (30) associated with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The two were held guilty of killing a retired school principal Ram Babu Shukla in fulfilment and furtherance of the ISIS agenda by spreading fear and terror among the people. The special court also slapped a penalty of Rs 5 lakh on both the accused. The verdict was delivered by Special Judge NIA Court Dinesh Kumar Mishra. The two accused were booked and tried under sections of IPC 302 (murder), 120 B (criminal conspiracy), along with sections of Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). Both Atif and Faisal were also named in the terror attack case related to the Bhopal-Ujjain passenger train on March 7, 2017, leaving scores of passengers on board injured.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The two accused were caught by the UP Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) during an encounter in the old Lucknow city area in March 2017 during which another accomplice Saifullah was gunned down. Besides Atif Muzaffar and Mohammad Faisal Khan, the ATS had also arrested Ghaus Mohammad Khan, Azhar, Mohammad Danish, Sayyad Mir, Hussain and Asif Iqbal. ALSO READ | Kerala-based ISIS group planned to loot churches & temples for funds However, the death sentence to Atif Muzaffar and Mohammad Faisal Khan has been given in connection with the murder of Ram Babu Shukla, a retired principal of a school in Kanpur. Shukla had retired as principal of Swami Atmaprakash Brahmchari Junior High School in Kanpur. On October 24, 2016, he was shot dead by the two accused near village Pyondi in Kanpur while he was returning home on a bicycle. The case was handed over to the NIA in November, 2017. Atif worked at a mobile repair store while Faisal was working at a general store. After the investigations, the NIA revealed that the accused were radicalised by the ISIS ideology and were out to kill people whom they believed to be disbelievers of Islam (Qafirs). The NIA had filed a chargesheet against the two accused on July 12, 2018 stating that the accused attacked Shukla in a lone wolf style. The NIA also revealed that the two had planned to bomb PM Modis Dussehra rally in Lucknow in 2016. The NIA had stated in the chargesheet that both Atif and Faisal had visited West Bengal and Kerala to procure arms for training and bomb making. The two had also tried to visit Syria via Pakistan. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

AMARAVATI: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday wrote a letter to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, requesting him to intervene and communicate with his American counterpart to probe the circumstances leading to a Telugu student's death in the US and a subsequent video clip belittling the deceased.

Reddy was referring to the death of Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old student from the state, who was hit by a speeding police car responding to an emergency call on January 23, 2023.

"I request you to personally intervene in this matter by communicating with your counterpart in the United States and urging for an independent and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident," said Reddy in the letter.

He said it is important to uncover the truth and ensure that justice is served, and also asked the minister to take up this issue with America's ambassador to India.

READ HERE | US cop caught on tape laughing over AP girls death in accident; probe launched

Meanwhile, Kandula's grandfather Suribabu told PTI that the case is being overseen by his relatives in the US, along with support of the Telugu Association of North America (TANA).

Kandula was pursuing a masters degree in Information Systems at the Seattle campus of Northeastern University.

Her death grabbed the headlines now after a video went viral in which American police personnel are heard saying Kandula's life was of 'limited value'.

Kandula hailed from Adoni in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh.

ALSO READ | Outrage in US over death of Indian student; US govt assures prompt action and investigation

KTRs message to MEA

Meanwhile, Telangana IT & Industries Minister KT Rama Rao said he was deeply disturbed and extremely saddened by the reprehensible comments of a police officer of the SPD.I request the @USAmbIndia to take up the matter with US authorities and deliver justice to the family of Jaahnavi. I request @DrSJaishankar Ji to take up the matter with his counterpart, he posted on X.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

AMARAVATI: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday wrote a letter to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, requesting him to intervene and communicate with his American counterpart to probe the circumstances leading to a Telugu student's death in the US and a subsequent video clip belittling the deceased. Reddy was referring to the death of Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old student from the state, who was hit by a speeding police car responding to an emergency call on January 23, 2023. "I request you to personally intervene in this matter by communicating with your counterpart in the United States and urging for an independent and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident," said Reddy in the letter.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); He said it is important to uncover the truth and ensure that justice is served, and also asked the minister to take up this issue with America's ambassador to India. READ HERE | US cop caught on tape laughing over AP girls death in accident; probe launched Meanwhile, Kandula's grandfather Suribabu told PTI that the case is being overseen by his relatives in the US, along with support of the Telugu Association of North America (TANA). Kandula was pursuing a masters degree in Information Systems at the Seattle campus of Northeastern University. Her death grabbed the headlines now after a video went viral in which American police personnel are heard saying Kandula's life was of 'limited value'. Kandula hailed from Adoni in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. ALSO READ | Outrage in US over death of Indian student; US govt assures prompt action and investigation KTRs message to MEA Meanwhile, Telangana IT & Industries Minister KT Rama Rao said he was deeply disturbed and extremely saddened by the reprehensible comments of a police officer of the SPD.I request the @USAmbIndia to take up the matter with US authorities and deliver justice to the family of Jaahnavi. I request @DrSJaishankar Ji to take up the matter with his counterpart, he posted on X. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/NEW DELHI: In the wake of the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode district of Kerala, ICMR has delivered the antibody requested by the state to combat the deadly virus.

A mobile laboratory was also sent to ground zero to enable the state to test samples.

The monoclonal antibody was delivered in Kozhikode by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Thursday.

The antiviral is the only option available to the government to treat the virus, although its efficacy has not been clinically proven yet.

The ICMR's National Institute of Virology in Pune sent its mobile BSL-3 (Biosafety level-3) laboratory to Kozhikode to test samples for the Nipah virus in the district itself after five cases, including two deaths, were reported.

A five-member central team comprising experts from the National Centre for Disease Control, RML Hospital and NIMHANS has been stationed in Kerala to take stock of the situation and assist the state government in the management of the Nipah infection.

Apparently, samples will be collected from bats to check for the presence of the Nipah virus.

Kerala State Health Minister Veena George said the stability of the antiviral was discussed with a central expert committee.

"Further steps or course of action would be decided by the expert committee," she said and referred to consultations between the State and the Union Health Ministry.

The ICMR's mBSL-3, the first biosafety level-3 containment mobile laboratory of South Asia will help early testing and detection of the infection at the district itself.

So far, the samples were being sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune.

The mobile laboratory was set up in February last year to investigate newly emerging and reemerging viral infections that are highly infectious and are potentially lethal for human beings.

Also, a fully-equipped mobile virology testing laboratory of the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) was dispatched to the northern Kerala district to strengthen virus testing and detection.

This is the fourth time the viral infection has been confirmed in the state.

In 2018 and 2021 it was detected in Kozhikode and in 2019 in Ernakulam.

The m102.4 monoclonal antibody, an experimental therapeutic, was imported during the 2018 Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode for the treatment of infected patients, on compassionate grounds.

It was not used back then, as by the time it arrived, the outbreak had ended.

The Standard Operating Procedures and protocols for its use were prepared at the time with the support of the ICMR.

George lauded the RGCB for stepping in to help the Nipah containment efforts and said more samples could now be tested.

RGCB Director Prof Chandrabhas Narayana said the services of a group of six experts have been made available in the mobile unit, which can give results within six hours after testing the samples.

Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar reviewed the steps taken for the containment of the Nipah outbreak and visited NIV, Pune to take stock of preparations.

The district administration declared Saturday (September 16) also a holiday for educational institutions in Kozhikode in addition to today and tomorrow.

George said in the State Assembly that there was no need to be apprehensive about the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode but caution needs to be exercised by people as they go about their daily activities.

"There is no need for any apprehension. We can all together deal with the issue with caution," she said.

George said the state has been vigilant and Kozhikode's neighbouring districts of Kannur, Wayanad and Malappuram should also be cautious.

The minister also said a 19-member core committee, call centres, and a control centre have also been set up in Kozhikode district, along with isolation, ventilator and ICU facilities in the medical college there.

Additionally, psychosocial support teams have been constituted to counsel those infected or their family members, and the treatment protocol has been further improved, the minister said.

She also advised people to wear masks, maintain social distance and approach healthcare workers in case anyone shows symptoms of cold, fever, headache or cough.

The minister also said that in areas where bats are present, liquor collected in open vessels from coconut and palm trees should not be consumed.

On Wednesday, a 24-year old health worker became Kerala's fifth confirmed Nipah case since its recent outbreak.

Of the three infected persons under treatment, the condition of a nine-year-old boy continues to remain critical.

The virus strain seen in the state was the Bangladesh variant that spreads from human to human and has a high mortality rate, though it is less infectious, the government has said.

The WHO and ICMR studies had found out that the entire state of Kerala is prone to getting such infections, not just Kozhikode.

People living in forest areas have to take the highest precautions, it has said, adding that the latest case of the Nipah virus originated within five kilometres of a jungle area.

Around 11 wards were declared as containment zones in Kozhikode district till Wednesday evening.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/NEW DELHI: In the wake of the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode district of Kerala, ICMR has delivered the antibody requested by the state to combat the deadly virus. A mobile laboratory was also sent to ground zero to enable the state to test samples. The monoclonal antibody was delivered in Kozhikode by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Thursday.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The antiviral is the only option available to the government to treat the virus, although its efficacy has not been clinically proven yet. The ICMR's National Institute of Virology in Pune sent its mobile BSL-3 (Biosafety level-3) laboratory to Kozhikode to test samples for the Nipah virus in the district itself after five cases, including two deaths, were reported. A five-member central team comprising experts from the National Centre for Disease Control, RML Hospital and NIMHANS has been stationed in Kerala to take stock of the situation and assist the state government in the management of the Nipah infection. Apparently, samples will be collected from bats to check for the presence of the Nipah virus. Kerala State Health Minister Veena George said the stability of the antiviral was discussed with a central expert committee. "Further steps or course of action would be decided by the expert committee," she said and referred to consultations between the State and the Union Health Ministry. The ICMR's mBSL-3, the first biosafety level-3 containment mobile laboratory of South Asia will help early testing and detection of the infection at the district itself. So far, the samples were being sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune. The mobile laboratory was set up in February last year to investigate newly emerging and reemerging viral infections that are highly infectious and are potentially lethal for human beings. Also, a fully-equipped mobile virology testing laboratory of the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) was dispatched to the northern Kerala district to strengthen virus testing and detection. This is the fourth time the viral infection has been confirmed in the state. In 2018 and 2021 it was detected in Kozhikode and in 2019 in Ernakulam. The m102.4 monoclonal antibody, an experimental therapeutic, was imported during the 2018 Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode for the treatment of infected patients, on compassionate grounds. It was not used back then, as by the time it arrived, the outbreak had ended. The Standard Operating Procedures and protocols for its use were prepared at the time with the support of the ICMR. George lauded the RGCB for stepping in to help the Nipah containment efforts and said more samples could now be tested. RGCB Director Prof Chandrabhas Narayana said the services of a group of six experts have been made available in the mobile unit, which can give results within six hours after testing the samples. Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar reviewed the steps taken for the containment of the Nipah outbreak and visited NIV, Pune to take stock of preparations. The district administration declared Saturday (September 16) also a holiday for educational institutions in Kozhikode in addition to today and tomorrow. George said in the State Assembly that there was no need to be apprehensive about the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode but caution needs to be exercised by people as they go about their daily activities. "There is no need for any apprehension. We can all together deal with the issue with caution," she said. George said the state has been vigilant and Kozhikode's neighbouring districts of Kannur, Wayanad and Malappuram should also be cautious. The minister also said a 19-member core committee, call centres, and a control centre have also been set up in Kozhikode district, along with isolation, ventilator and ICU facilities in the medical college there. Additionally, psychosocial support teams have been constituted to counsel those infected or their family members, and the treatment protocol has been further improved, the minister said. She also advised people to wear masks, maintain social distance and approach healthcare workers in case anyone shows symptoms of cold, fever, headache or cough. The minister also said that in areas where bats are present, liquor collected in open vessels from coconut and palm trees should not be consumed. On Wednesday, a 24-year old health worker became Kerala's fifth confirmed Nipah case since its recent outbreak. Of the three infected persons under treatment, the condition of a nine-year-old boy continues to remain critical. The virus strain seen in the state was the Bangladesh variant that spreads from human to human and has a high mortality rate, though it is less infectious, the government has said. The WHO and ICMR studies had found out that the entire state of Kerala is prone to getting such infections, not just Kozhikode. People living in forest areas have to take the highest precautions, it has said, adding that the latest case of the Nipah virus originated within five kilometres of a jungle area. Around 11 wards were declared as containment zones in Kozhikode district till Wednesday evening. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Online Desk

A former Vishwa Hindu Parishad ( VHP) leader and speaker RBVS Manian was arrested by the city police on Thursday for making derogatory comments against the architect of the Indian Constitution Dr B.R Ambedkar.

In a video that sparked a huge public outrage, the Hindutva leader was seen calling Dr BR Ambedkar a mere stenographer and that he had nothing to do with the 'constitution of India'. He was also seen making obscene comments on Thiruvalluvar.

While addressing a private function here on Monday, Manian referred to BR Ambedkar, the father of the Indian Constitution, a "clerk, typist and proofreader."

He also said that Rajendra Prasad should have been given credit for framing the Constitution instead of Ambedkar who was only the chairman of the drafting committee.

"All the discussions were written by a stenographer. The stenographer typed it. Then a person had to verify if what was typed was correct. Thats the job Ambedkar had, he said.

Maniyan said that certain lunatics were stating that it was Ambedkar who had framed the Constitution and added that these people had pawned their intelligence.

Ambedkar had verified the debates, discussions and speeches and clarified them and there was no contribution from him, the former VHP leader added.

Acting on the complaint lodged by Selvam, a Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi functionary, Mambalam police registered a case against Manian under the provisions of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, and Indian Penal Code for offences including causing disturbance to public tranquillity and creating hatred between two groups.

He was arrested at his residence on Rajambal Street in T. Nagar. Later, he was produced before a Magistrate in Saidapet Court.

(With inputs from IANS)

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

A former Vishwa Hindu Parishad ( VHP) leader and speaker RBVS Manian was arrested by the city police on Thursday for making derogatory comments against the architect of the Indian Constitution Dr B.R Ambedkar. In a video that sparked a huge public outrage, the Hindutva leader was seen calling Dr BR Ambedkar a mere stenographer and that he had nothing to do with the 'constitution of India'. He was also seen making obscene comments on Thiruvalluvar. While addressing a private function here on Monday, Manian referred to BR Ambedkar, the father of the Indian Constitution, a "clerk, typist and proofreader."googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); He also said that Rajendra Prasad should have been given credit for framing the Constitution instead of Ambedkar who was only the chairman of the drafting committee. "All the discussions were written by a stenographer. The stenographer typed it. Then a person had to verify if what was typed was correct. Thats the job Ambedkar had, he said. Maniyan said that certain lunatics were stating that it was Ambedkar who had framed the Constitution and added that these people had pawned their intelligence. Ambedkar had verified the debates, discussions and speeches and clarified them and there was no contribution from him, the former VHP leader added. Acting on the complaint lodged by Selvam, a Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi functionary, Mambalam police registered a case against Manian under the provisions of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, and Indian Penal Code for offences including causing disturbance to public tranquillity and creating hatred between two groups. He was arrested at his residence on Rajambal Street in T. Nagar. Later, he was produced before a Magistrate in Saidapet Court. (With inputs from IANS) Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

CHENNAI: Slamming Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his remark that "Hindi unites", Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Thursday said it is "absurd" to claim that Hindi, spoken in just four to five states, unites the entire Indian union.

Udhayanidhi said the union minister has as usual shown his love for Hindi by commenting that only "Hindi unites people and empowers regional languages."

"This view is only an alternative form of a clamour for Hindi; that if it is learnt, a person can develop," the Minister said in Tamil on social media platform X.

"In Tamil Nadu it is Tamil, and Malayalam is the language in neighbouring Kerala. How is Hindi uniting these two states? How it is empowering?" he asked.

Further, he said: "It is absurd to say that Hindi, spoken in four to five states, is uniting the whole of the Indian Union."

Amit Shah should stop relegating non-Hindi languages to the status of provincial languages and insulting them, Udhayanidhi said in Tamil on X and added the hashtag #StopHindiImposition.

ALSO READ | Stop Sanatan debate, focus on Centre's failures, Stalin tells cadres, DMK's allies

The Union Home Minister on Thursday said that Hindi unites the diverse languages in India and it has honoured different Indian as well as global languages and dialects.

In a message on the occasion of 'Hindi Diwas', Shah said Hindi has never competed nor would compete with any other Indian language and that a strong country would emerge only by strengthening all its languages.

The home minister expressed confidence that Hindi would become a medium to empower all the local languages.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

CHENNAI: Slamming Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his remark that "Hindi unites", Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Thursday said it is "absurd" to claim that Hindi, spoken in just four to five states, unites the entire Indian union. Udhayanidhi said the union minister has as usual shown his love for Hindi by commenting that only "Hindi unites people and empowers regional languages." "This view is only an alternative form of a clamour for Hindi; that if it is learnt, a person can develop," the Minister said in Tamil on social media platform X.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "In Tamil Nadu it is Tamil, and Malayalam is the language in neighbouring Kerala. How is Hindi uniting these two states? How it is empowering?" he asked. Further, he said: "It is absurd to say that Hindi, spoken in four to five states, is uniting the whole of the Indian Union." Amit Shah should stop relegating non-Hindi languages to the status of provincial languages and insulting them, Udhayanidhi said in Tamil on X and added the hashtag #StopHindiImposition. ALSO READ | Stop Sanatan debate, focus on Centre's failures, Stalin tells cadres, DMK's allies The Union Home Minister on Thursday said that Hindi unites the diverse languages in India and it has honoured different Indian as well as global languages and dialects. In a message on the occasion of 'Hindi Diwas', Shah said Hindi has never competed nor would compete with any other Indian language and that a strong country would emerge only by strengthening all its languages. The home minister expressed confidence that Hindi would become a medium to empower all the local languages. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Express News Service

RAMANATHAPURAM: A total of three boats including one from Rameswaram were caught by the Sri Lankan Navy in the mid-night hours for alleged violation of the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) and fishing in the island nation's waters off Delft Island near Neduntheevu.

About 17 fishermen including 8 from Rameswaram were arrested and three boats were seized by the SL Navy which are said to be taken to Kankesanturai for further action.

About 500 boats from Rameswaram had ventured into the sea on Wednesday. Sources said a few of them, who were involved in fishing activities, were chased off by the Sri Lankan Navy during the night hours. Three boats that carried 17 fishermen were captured for allegedly violating the IMBL.

Local sources said that one of the boats was from Rameswaram and carried 8 fishermen who identified as Antony (46) owner of the boat, Arun (37), Murugan (43), Kingston (37), Kirton (40), Murugan (40), Karlmarcus (41), and Remotan (22) all belong to Thangachimadam and Rameswaram areas.

Sri Lankan Navy officials said that The Sri Lanka Navy conducted a special operation to chase away Indian poaching trawlers from Sri Lankan waters on the evening of 13 September 2023. Northern Naval Command deployed Fast Attack Craft of the 04th Fast Attack Flotilla to chase away a cluster of Indian poaching trawlers, after having spotted they were engaging in illegal fishing in Sri Lankan waters off the Kakarathivu Island and Kovilan Lighthouse on 13th September. In this operation, the Navy held 3 Indian poaching trawlers that continued to remain in island waters, with 17 Indian fishers aboard. The 3 poaching trawlers together with 17 Indian fishermen were brought to the port of Kankasanthurei and they will be handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Mailadi for onward legal proceedings.

Including the poaching trawlers held in this operation, the Sri Lanka Navy has seized 17 Indian poaching trawlers and apprehended 110 Indian fishermen thus far in 2023. Following these apprehensions, the poaching trawlers and fishermen have been handed over to relevant authorities for legal action.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister MK Stalin on Thursday wrote to Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar urging him to initiate immediate diplomatic efforts to secure the release of the fishermen. Stalin said, "Recurring arrests of Tamil Nadu fishermen continue to aggravate the atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among our fisherfolk. These people, who rely on fishing for survival, sometimes unintentionally drift into Sri Lankan waters due to navigational challenges."

Stalin urged the union minister to immediately initiate diplomatic efforts with the Sri Lankan government to secure the release of the fishermen. The CM also reiterated his long-standing demand to initiate bilateral negotiation to find a lasting, diplomatic solution to the issue.

PMK founder S Ramadoss, and leaders of various political parties too called upon the Union government to take steps to resolve the issue. The Sri Lankan Navy has arrested 110 Indian fishers this year.

Fishermen association leader from Rameswaram Emerald alleged that though action towards releasing the fishermen is being taken no action was taken in the past couple of years to retrieve the seized boats, which leaves boat owners in massive debt and leaves fishers without work. Fishermen association demands the union government take action to retrieve the boats and also to host meetings with the Sri Lankan authorities to solve the Katchatheevu issues so that fishermen from both countries can fish peacefully.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

RAMANATHAPURAM: A total of three boats including one from Rameswaram were caught by the Sri Lankan Navy in the mid-night hours for alleged violation of the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) and fishing in the island nation's waters off Delft Island near Neduntheevu. About 17 fishermen including 8 from Rameswaram were arrested and three boats were seized by the SL Navy which are said to be taken to Kankesanturai for further action. About 500 boats from Rameswaram had ventured into the sea on Wednesday. Sources said a few of them, who were involved in fishing activities, were chased off by the Sri Lankan Navy during the night hours. Three boats that carried 17 fishermen were captured for allegedly violating the IMBL. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Local sources said that one of the boats was from Rameswaram and carried 8 fishermen who identified as Antony (46) owner of the boat, Arun (37), Murugan (43), Kingston (37), Kirton (40), Murugan (40), Karlmarcus (41), and Remotan (22) all belong to Thangachimadam and Rameswaram areas. Sri Lankan Navy officials said that The Sri Lanka Navy conducted a special operation to chase away Indian poaching trawlers from Sri Lankan waters on the evening of 13 September 2023. Northern Naval Command deployed Fast Attack Craft of the 04th Fast Attack Flotilla to chase away a cluster of Indian poaching trawlers, after having spotted they were engaging in illegal fishing in Sri Lankan waters off the Kakarathivu Island and Kovilan Lighthouse on 13th September. In this operation, the Navy held 3 Indian poaching trawlers that continued to remain in island waters, with 17 Indian fishers aboard. The 3 poaching trawlers together with 17 Indian fishermen were brought to the port of Kankasanthurei and they will be handed over to the Fisheries Inspector of Mailadi for onward legal proceedings. Including the poaching trawlers held in this operation, the Sri Lanka Navy has seized 17 Indian poaching trawlers and apprehended 110 Indian fishermen thus far in 2023. Following these apprehensions, the poaching trawlers and fishermen have been handed over to relevant authorities for legal action. Meanwhile, Chief Minister MK Stalin on Thursday wrote to Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar urging him to initiate immediate diplomatic efforts to secure the release of the fishermen. Stalin said, "Recurring arrests of Tamil Nadu fishermen continue to aggravate the atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among our fisherfolk. These people, who rely on fishing for survival, sometimes unintentionally drift into Sri Lankan waters due to navigational challenges." Stalin urged the union minister to immediately initiate diplomatic efforts with the Sri Lankan government to secure the release of the fishermen. The CM also reiterated his long-standing demand to initiate bilateral negotiation to find a lasting, diplomatic solution to the issue. PMK founder S Ramadoss, and leaders of various political parties too called upon the Union government to take steps to resolve the issue. The Sri Lankan Navy has arrested 110 Indian fishers this year. Fishermen association leader from Rameswaram Emerald alleged that though action towards releasing the fishermen is being taken no action was taken in the past couple of years to retrieve the seized boats, which leaves boat owners in massive debt and leaves fishers without work. Fishermen association demands the union government take action to retrieve the boats and also to host meetings with the Sri Lankan authorities to solve the Katchatheevu issues so that fishermen from both countries can fish peacefully. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Online Desk

20,000 people are feared dead in the recent flooding in Libya, officials said. The Mayor of the Eastern Libya Port city of Derna estimates between 18,000 and 20,000 people have died in the flooding. The UN authorities said the two rival governments in Libya are coordinating the relief efforts for flood victims.

(This is a developing story)

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

20,000 people are feared dead in the recent flooding in Libya, officials said. The Mayor of the Eastern Libya Port city of Derna estimates between 18,000 and 20,000 people have died in the flooding. The UN authorities said the two rival governments in Libya are coordinating the relief efforts for flood victims. (This is a developing story) Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsAppgoogletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); });
By AFP

SEOUL: Russian President Vladimir Putin has accepted an invitation to visit North Korea, Pyongyang's state media said Thursday, as Kim Jong Un wrapped up a rare trip to meet with his ally.

The isolated Kim, who seldom leaves his country and has not travelled since before the pandemic, had a "historic meeting and talks" with Putin on Wednesday, the Korean Central News Agency said.

Among the results of the leaders' summit were Russian promises of help with North Korea's fledgling space programme, according to Russian news agencies, while Putin told reporters he saw "possibilities" for military cooperation.

Historic allies, Russia and North Korea are both under rafts of global sanctions -- Moscow for its Ukraine conflict, Pyongyang for its nuclear tests -- with Kim's visit sparking widespread concern over illicit arms agreements.

The head of South Korea's ruling party slammed what he called "a devil's deal" between Moscow and Pyongyang, with Japan warning Thursday against any violations of UN bans on arms deals with the North after Putin-Kim talks.

"We are watching (the talks) with concerns including the possibility that it could lead to violations of the Security Council's ban on all arms-related material transactions with North Korea," new Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa told reporters.

Old friends

After touring a space centre and attending a lavish banquet in his honour, Kim "courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK at a convenient time", state-run KCNA said, referring to the country by its official name.

"Putin accepted the invitation with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history and tradition of the Russia-DPRK friendship."

Kim told Putin on Wednesday he was sure Russia would win a "great victory" over its enemies.

"We will always be with Russia," Kim said, according to footage broadcast on Russian TV.

"An old friend is better than two new ones," Putin said, quoting a Russian proverb and referencing the Soviet Union's role in the Korean War.

Kim then "said goodbye to Putin, wishing him good health" and headed to his next destination, KCNA said, with Putin earlier saying Kim would oversee a display of Russian warships in the far eastern city of Vladivostok to "demonstrate the capabilities of the Pacific Fleet".

'Blood alliance'

Western countries have repeatedly raised concerns about a possible arms agreement between Russia and North Korea, as Moscow's war in Ukraine grinds on.

"The summit signals a seismic change in Northeast Asian geopolitics," said Kim Jong-dae, a former MP and visiting scholar at Yonsei Institute for North Korean Studies.

A stronger alliance between North Korea, Russia and China could become a "destabilising force in the region", and ammunition from Pyongyang could significantly impact the war in Ukraine.

"I think Russia has already tested the North Korean shells on battlefields and is now ready to expand its use going forward. And neither the US nor South Korea has come to grips with the implications of such an arms deal between Russia and the North," he said.

Russia became a pariah in the West after invading Ukraine last year and has looked to strengthen alliances with other leaders facing similar isolation.

Putin on Wednesday praised the "strengthening of cooperation and friendship between our countries," while hosting Kim at a spaceport in Russia's far east.

He also said Moscow could help Pyongyang build satellites -- after the North failed twice recently to put a military spy satellite into orbit.

In Washington, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said any cooperation would be "quite troubling and would potentially be in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions."

Kim, who travelled overland to Russia in his bullet-proof train, was accompanied by a military-heavy entourage, with top Russian military officials including Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu also involved in the talks.

"With Kim Jong Un's latest visit to Russia, North Korea-Russia relations can be said to have completely returned to the level of blood alliance during the Cold War," Cheong Seong-chang, a researcher at the Sejong Institute, told AFP.

"There have been many summit meetings between North Korea and Russia so far, but there has never been a time when North Korea brought in almost all of its key military officials like the one happening right now."
By AFP

TAIPEI: Dozens of Chinese warplanes and 10 navy ships were detected around Taiwan, authorities in Taipei said Thursday after warning that Beijing was conducting air and sea drills in the Western Pacific.

China claims self-ruled Taiwan as its territory and relations have soured since the island's independence-leaning President Tsai Ing-wen came to power in 2016.

Beijing has in recent years ratcheted up diplomatic and military pressure on Taiwan and the number of warplane flights around the island increased dramatically following last August's visit by Nancy Pelosi, then-speaker of the US House of Representatives.

Taiwan's defence ministry said in a statement that 68 Chinese aircraft and 10 naval vessels were detected near the island between Wednesday morning and Thursday morning.

ALSO READ | China objects to ex-Indian service chiefs attending security conference in Taiwan

Taipei had already said some of those planes and warships were heading to an unspecified area of the Western Pacific to "conduct joint sea and air training" with China's Shandong aircraft carrier.

The Shandong, one of two operational aircraft carriers in the Chinese fleet, was detected Monday around 60 nautical miles (110 kilometres) southeast of Taiwan heading into the Western Pacific, Taipei authorities said.

Japan's defence ministry also said Wednesday its navy had detected six ships -- including frigates, destroyers, one fast combat support ship and the Shandong -- sailing through waters some 650 kilometres (400 miles) south of Miyakojima island, east of Taiwan.

It also confirmed that jets and helicopters had been detected taking off and landing from the Shandong.

'Grey zone'

China's military "has been tasked to develop capabilities to take over Taiwan", one expert said.

"Those military exercises are aimed at developing and practising those capabilities," said Bonnie Glaser, a China expert at Washington DC's German Marshall Fund.

"We should expect its trend to continue, with growing pressure on Taiwan."

James Char, a research fellow at Singapore's Nanyang Technological University, said China's military activities around Taiwan -- particularly aerial incursions into the island's air defence identification zone -- had become a "regular occurrence".

But the activities were "all, without exception, operations below the threshold of war and occurring outside Taiwanese territorial airspace", he told AFP.

China has not commented officially on any drills being conducted in the Western Pacific.

READ MORE | 'We must unite against China's expansionism by including Taiwan in the UN'

'Equal treatment for Taiwan'

And in contrast with the sabre-rattling, Beijing this week dangled the prospect of preferential treatment for people from Taiwan seeking to live, work, study and do business in mainland China.

The series of "opinions" announced by two top Communist Party bodies on Tuesday also urged the coastal city of Xiamen to "speed up" its integration with the Taiwan-administered Kinmen and Matsu islands located a few miles offshore.

At a press conference Thursday, Pan Xianzhang, vice director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the party's Central Committee, said the goal of the policy was to create a "demonstration zone for cross-strait integrated development".

"The focus is on... taking the lead in implementing equal treatment for Taiwan compatriots and businesses so as to make Taiwan compatriots fully experience the benefits of integration", Pan said.

Cong Liang, vice director of China's National Development and Reform Commission, said at the same briefing that a high-speed rail line should be built across the Taiwan Strait in order to achieve "direct infrastructure connectivity" with the mainland.

China conducted military exercises in April to simulate the encirclement of Taiwan after Tsai met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in California.

At the time, Taiwan detected 71 Chinese warplanes in a 24-hour period, matching the record daily high set in December 2022.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

TAIPEI: Dozens of Chinese warplanes and 10 navy ships were detected around Taiwan, authorities in Taipei said Thursday after warning that Beijing was conducting air and sea drills in the Western Pacific. China claims self-ruled Taiwan as its territory and relations have soured since the island's independence-leaning President Tsai Ing-wen came to power in 2016. Beijing has in recent years ratcheted up diplomatic and military pressure on Taiwan and the number of warplane flights around the island increased dramatically following last August's visit by Nancy Pelosi, then-speaker of the US House of Representatives.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Taiwan's defence ministry said in a statement that 68 Chinese aircraft and 10 naval vessels were detected near the island between Wednesday morning and Thursday morning. ALSO READ | China objects to ex-Indian service chiefs attending security conference in Taiwan Taipei had already said some of those planes and warships were heading to an unspecified area of the Western Pacific to "conduct joint sea and air training" with China's Shandong aircraft carrier. The Shandong, one of two operational aircraft carriers in the Chinese fleet, was detected Monday around 60 nautical miles (110 kilometres) southeast of Taiwan heading into the Western Pacific, Taipei authorities said. Japan's defence ministry also said Wednesday its navy had detected six ships -- including frigates, destroyers, one fast combat support ship and the Shandong -- sailing through waters some 650 kilometres (400 miles) south of Miyakojima island, east of Taiwan. It also confirmed that jets and helicopters had been detected taking off and landing from the Shandong. 'Grey zone' China's military "has been tasked to develop capabilities to take over Taiwan", one expert said. "Those military exercises are aimed at developing and practising those capabilities," said Bonnie Glaser, a China expert at Washington DC's German Marshall Fund. "We should expect its trend to continue, with growing pressure on Taiwan." James Char, a research fellow at Singapore's Nanyang Technological University, said China's military activities around Taiwan -- particularly aerial incursions into the island's air defence identification zone -- had become a "regular occurrence". But the activities were "all, without exception, operations below the threshold of war and occurring outside Taiwanese territorial airspace", he told AFP. China has not commented officially on any drills being conducted in the Western Pacific. READ MORE | 'We must unite against China's expansionism by including Taiwan in the UN' 'Equal treatment for Taiwan' And in contrast with the sabre-rattling, Beijing this week dangled the prospect of preferential treatment for people from Taiwan seeking to live, work, study and do business in mainland China. The series of "opinions" announced by two top Communist Party bodies on Tuesday also urged the coastal city of Xiamen to "speed up" its integration with the Taiwan-administered Kinmen and Matsu islands located a few miles offshore. At a press conference Thursday, Pan Xianzhang, vice director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the party's Central Committee, said the goal of the policy was to create a "demonstration zone for cross-strait integrated development". "The focus is on... taking the lead in implementing equal treatment for Taiwan compatriots and businesses so as to make Taiwan compatriots fully experience the benefits of integration", Pan said. Cong Liang, vice director of China's National Development and Reform Commission, said at the same briefing that a high-speed rail line should be built across the Taiwan Strait in order to achieve "direct infrastructure connectivity" with the mainland. China conducted military exercises in April to simulate the encirclement of Taiwan after Tsai met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in California. At the time, Taiwan detected 71 Chinese warplanes in a 24-hour period, matching the record daily high set in December 2022. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Legislative Republicans say their surprise proposal to shift Wisconsin to a nonpartisan map-drawing process similar to Iowas model, after years of rejecting similar efforts, is everything their Democratic colleagues have asked for, despite some key differences between the latest proposal and previous iterations of the bill.

Although some Democratic legislators and Gov. Tony Evers have supported nonpartisan redistricting in the past, they almost immediately issued a resounding rejection of Assembly Republicans effort to fast-track a vote on the issue at a time when two lawsuits challenging existing maps could be taken up by the new liberal majority on the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

The Republican bill was unveiled by a coalition of GOP lawmakers and is scheduled for a floor vote in the Assembly on Thursday, just two days after it was announced.

The latest Republican proposal is not a sincere legislative attempt, said Sen. Kelda Roys, who co-sponsored a 2021 bill seeking nonpartisan redistricting.

Roys also noted differences between the latest bill and previous iterations, including the removal of one item that would have required both the Assembly and Senate to secure a three-fourths vote of all members in order to amend any maps proposed by a nonpartisan agency.

If you live under a gerrymandered, rigged system, you cant just throw a little sprinkle of fair maps legislation and think that thats going to change, unless you have disinfected the body from the gerrymander, said Roys, D-Madison. We cannot and should not trust anything that Robin Vos, master manipulator, has to say.

Assembly Republicans on Tuesday unveiled legislation to implement nonpartisan legislative and congressional boundaries by the 2024 election in an effort to keep the redistricting process out of the state Supreme Court, which shifted to a liberal majority last month. Assembly Republicans have been threatening to impeach liberal Justice Janet Protasiewicz for potentially ruling on redistricting cases after calling the maps rigged.

Evers called Assembly Republicans idea bogus and said he does not trust the GOP-controlled Legislature to hand over the map-drawing process. The Democratic governor included in previous budget requests proposals to have a nonpartisan agency draw legislative and congressional boundaries, as opposed to the state Legislature.

Speaking on 1130 WISN-AM Wednesday, Vos said opposition from Democratic lawmakers represented total hypocrisy, given their yearslong campaign for nonpartisan redistricting in Wisconsin.

They are now literally showing the people of Wisconsin the hypocrisy that Democrats are, Do as I say, not as I actually have said in the past, Vos said. Its crazy.

Previous proposals

While Democratic lawmakers almost immediately signaled a rejection of Vos proposal Tuesday, more than 30 Democratic legislators supported bipartisan legislation introduced last session that called for a shift to nonpartisan redistricting in Wisconsin.

Rep. Todd Novak, R-Dodgeville, has introduced several bills over the years, including last sessions proposal, seeking to implement the Iowa redistricting model. Novak said he has long supported nonpartisan maps as a way to make lawmakers more responsive to their respective districts.

I think it makes you a better legislator  to be in a competitive district, he said.

So why the immediate opposition from Democratic lawmakers and nonpartisan map advocates? For one, there are some differences between previous proposals and the most recent bill.

Both the 2021 and 2023 bills would put the map-drawing process in the hands of the Legislative Reference Bureau, but offer considerably different processes for what happens when the Legislature rejects the district boundaries the agency submits.

Under both bills, the Legislature has the ability to reject maps drawn by the LRB, as does the governor through veto power. At that point, the agency must draw new maps, taking into account any concerns, and submit the new boundaries back to the Assembly and Senate.

If the second version of maps is also rejected, the agency draws up a third proposal. At that point, the bills provide the Legislature with the ability to amend the boundaries as they would any standard bill.

Under the 2021 bill Democrats backed, any such amendments would need to be approved by three-fourths of all members in each chamber.

Assembly Bill 415, introduced Tuesday, removes the three-fourths vote requirement.

With this current bill, the majority of the Legislature would be able to reject the maps twice, and then create their own gerrymandered maps in accordance with their goals and party, Debra Cronmiller, executive director of the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin, said in a statement. This bill, if enacted, could result in more of the same extremely gerrymandered Legislative maps that we have now. This bill needs to require a supermajority (or 3/4 vote) of the Legislature, to ensure one party does not overrule the process.

That three-fourths requirement was enormously consequential, said John Johnson, a research fellow in the Lubar Center for Public Policy Research and Civic Education at Marquette Law School who has extensively analyzed the states maps.

If the Legislature was to wholly override the nonpartisan recommendation, it (would have) required a bipartisan bill to do so under the previous plan, he said, whereas under this plan, the Legislature along narrow party lines can override nonpartisan maps on the third time.

Map analysis

A Lubar Center analysis of the current maps  using the results of the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections and the 2018 gubernatorial election as a baseline  found that if half of voters statewide went for Democrats and the other half went for Republicans, Democratic candidates could expect to win just 36 of the Assemblys 99 seats and 10 of the Senates 33 seats. Republicans currently hold 22 seats, or a two-thirds majority, in the Senate and 64 of 99 seats in the Assembly.

Both Novak and Vos have expressed a willingness to amend the bill to secure bipartisan support and Evers signature.

We are more than willing to take that amendment, Novak said.

The 2021 bill also would have prohibited majority and minority leaders in the Assembly and Senate from assigning or hiring any person to work with the Legislative Reference Bureau to prepare for redistricting, prepare plans or oversee the process.

The latest bill would create a redistricting advisory commission including four appointees  one chosen by each Democratic and Republican legislative leader in the Assembly and Senate  and a fifth person that the appointees choose to chair the group. That group would be tasked with helping the LRB prepare a redistricting plan, releasing the proposed maps to the public and conducting public hearings on the redistricting bill.

The Wisconsin Fair Maps Coalition, a group of organizations that champions fair and nonpartisan redistricting, in a statement Wednesday expressed grave concerns about this new initiative. In particular, the coalition is concerned that the proposal was announced Tuesday and was scheduled for a floor vote in the Assembly just two days later, bypassing the public hearing process generally carried out by legislative committees.

Bypassing this bills referral to a standing committee review and a public hearing demonstrates continued disregard for public input in redistricting and legislative processes, the group continued. Further, their process undermines the principles of transparency and inclusivity that are essential for a fair and nonpartisan redistricting effort.

Jay Heck, director of Common Cause of Wisconsin, a government watchdog group that has advocated for nonpartisan maps in Wisconsin, said that including the three-fourths requirement to amend any proposed maps would go a long way toward building support for the measure, but he also spoke against the Legislatures efforts to bypass any public comment process and expedite a vote on the proposal.

We support the concept of the bill but the process is extremely disturbing, Heck said.

Heck also took issue with the manner in which Vos unveiled the bill without input from public interest groups and without support from Evers or Democratic lawmakers.

His rush to a vote does a vast disservice to the citizens and voters of Wisconsin who have long supported and advocated for a fair, transparent and nonpartisan redistricting process, Heck said in a statement.

Iowa model

The latest Wisconsin proposal is similar to Iowas redistricting model in a few ways: The districts must be contiguous, coincide as much as possible with political subdivision boundaries and be compact. Those principles are typically present in nonpartisan redistricting models.

Similarly, both the Wisconsin proposal and Iowa model create a redistricting commission to hold public hearings, report map updates to the public and relay public testimony to the Legislature.

Both the Iowa model and the latest Wisconsin proposal allow their respective legislatures to amend the proposal as much as theyd like if they dont approve the nonpartisan maps on the first and second attempts.

The biggest difference between the two models is the process for implementing maps if the initial proposed boundaries fail to get legislative support.

If Iowa doesnt implement a map by a certain deadline, the state Supreme Court must step in to adopt a legislative redistricting plan because of a constitutional provision.

In Wisconsin, there is no deadline to implement a map. And theres no specified role for the Wisconsin Supreme Court to step in to force the Legislature to adopt new maps  a result of the state Constitution not specifying the state high courts role in the redistricting process, according to an LRB memo to Vos.

I suppose you could make the case that somehow it could make its way to court, but the idea is to avoid the courts and have the governor and Legislature do it together, regardless of split government, Novak said.

Impeachment raised again

Vos said Evers rejection of his nonpartisan redistricting proposal puts back into the realm of possibilities all the things we have to look at with the idea of recusal.

If they are so certain that they have a justice in their pocket because they dont even want to take an idea that has been their own for 20 years it certainly says to me that the process in the Supreme Court is even more rigged than what they say the maps are, Vos added.

On Wednesday, he again floated the idea of impeaching Protasiewicz for potentially hearing two redistricting lawsuits that liberals filed in an attempt to redraw the states maps.

Vos said he was organizing a three-person panel of former Wisconsin Supreme Court justices to research whether impeaching Protasiewicz over potentially sitting on those lawsuits would be appropriate because she called the maps rigged and said she wanted to take a fresh look at them. Vos office did not respond to questions seeking details about the panel.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court hasnt accepted either case yet, but legislative Republicans have said in court filings that Protasiewicz must recuse herself from the cases and have threatened to impeach her if she doesnt.

Former Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice David Prosser, a conservative, told the Wisconsin State Journal hes on the three-justice panel Vos organized. He said Vos hasnt given him guidelines for the work hes supposed to do and hasnt told him who else is on the panel. He said he may need more time to reach a conclusion on impeachment than the few weeks that Vos told The Associated Press it would take for the group to finish its work.

Of the other eight living justices, Vos told The Associated Press that former Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Michael Gableman isnt on the panel. Former Justice Dan Kelly told the AP he isnt on the panel either, and former justices Janine Geske and Jon Wilcox told the State Journal they arent on the panel.

Former Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Patience Roggensack didnt return a message.

I cannot believe that they will say that impeachment is justified here, Geske said of the panel.

Election advantages due to district mapping
Tabu, Ali, Wamiqa Gabi get fed up with Vishal Bharadwaj's secrecy in new 'Khufiya' video

Mumbai, Sep 13

A ctors Tabu, Ali Fazal and Wamiqa Gabi are getting all curious, anxious and finally fed up with director Vishal Bharadwaj's secrecy for a new project, as he is keeping everything 'Khufiya', ahead of the release of his spy-thriller film, 'Khufiya'.

Announcing the film's release, a new video has surfaced on YouTube where Tabu, Ali Fazal and Wamiqa Gabbi get a call from Vishal Bharadwaj for some new project. But he got a bit too 'khufiya' (secretive) as he was not disclosing the name, the script or even the poster.

Tabu, who is looking at the pages of the project gets surprised by the fact that the movie's script, dialogues and even theme is a secret, while Ali Fazal is cleaning a mirror which says in capital letters 'GADDAR', (traitor) as Vishal Bharadwaj suspected that Ali Fazal had leaked his script.

Ali Fazal, however was himself astonished, wondering that how can he leak a script he doesn't even know, and asked Vishal to answer him, though the director was constantly avoiding him and not answering him, leading him to say; "Sir, before I was working with you I was struggling, and now I am struggling even more" while struggling to wipe the mirror clean.

Wamiqa Gabi received a WhatsApp text from the director who told her to be 'khufiya', leading her to hesitantly say 'I am doing a.khufiya music video for Vishal Dadlani sir..I am very excited', before laughing mournfully.

The actors then end up having all sorts of questions, with Tabu asking where is the location and when does the shoot begin, Wamiqa saying 'at least tell us the fees sir', while Ali accused the director of 'ghosting' him, as he simply refuses to answer him.

The clip ends with Vishal Bharadwaj actually ghosting everyone and smugly sitting in his chair, before the release year for the movie pops out saying 'Coming soon in 2023'.

'Khufiya' is a spy-thriller film that follows Krishna Mehra (Tabu), who is an operative at the Research & Analysis Wing (R&AW). She is assigned to track down a mole selling India's defense secrets, while she grapples with her dual identity as a spy and lover.

Directed by Vishal Bharadwaj, with a script written by Rohan Narula and Vishal, the movie stars Tabu, Ali Fazal, Wamiqa Gabi, Ashish Vidyarthi, Alexx O'Nell and Shataf Figar, will hit Netflix sometime in 2023.

Tabu, Ali, Wamiqa Gabi get fed up with Vishal Bharadwaj's secrecy in new 'Khufiya' video

Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us!
New Delhi, September 13

T he Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal met with the Minister of the Russian Federation for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic, AO Chekunkov at the Pavilion of Kamchatka Territory, "Far East Street" in Vladivostok, Russia on Wednesday, informed the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

During the meeting, both leaders discussed a wide range of items of maritime communication between India and Russia to widen maritime cooperation including the possibility of usage of new transport corridors like the Northern Sea Route as well as the Eastern Maritime Corridor between Vladivostok and Chennai. It was also decided that India and Russia agreed to train Indian seafarers in Polar and Arctic waters at the Russian Maritime Training Institute, named after GI Admiral Nevelsky, which is equipped with simulator training facilities, in Vladivostok.

Speaking on the occasion Sonowal said, "The relationship between Russia and India has deep historical roots and is based on mutual respect and shared interests. We remain committed to maintaining strong ties and fostering strategic cooperation across various sectors. With support from the Russian government, our team visited the ports of Vladivostok, Vostochny, Nakhodka and Kozmino in May 2023, which helped us gain insights and collaboration forged during the visits to these ports has contributed to our understanding of requirements for the full-scale operationalisation of the Eastern Maritime Corridor . Our proposed workshop in Chennai will discuss the operationalisation of the EMC, and we envision involving pertinent stakeholders in the trading and transportation of potential commodities such as coking coal, oil, and liquefied natural gas along this corridor, the ministry said in an official release.

"I am also happy to inform you that we have extended an invitation to Russia to participate at the upcoming Global Maritime India Summit, 2023," he added

Speaking at the meeting, the Minister of the Russian Federation for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic, AO Chekunkov, said, "We discussed the development of maritime communications between our countries, as well as the prospects for using the Northern Sea Route. This dynamic of contacts is the foundation for further strengthening our partnership."

"Cooperation with the Republic of India is one of the priorities of the international activities of our Ministry; we intend to develop relations with Indian partners in the Far East in all areas of mutual interest," he added.

Highlighting the role of other alternative routes for exploring trade and commerce opportunities between India and Russia, Sonowal said, "India is keen to collaborate a partnership regarding the development of the Northern Sea Route, recognising the potential it holds for enhanced connectivity and trade," the release added.

Speaking on the alternative routes for trade, AO Chekunkov said, "We agree with your conclusions that the potential cargo base of the line will be coking coal, oil, LNG and fertilizers. In the Far East, this product range is present in sufficient quantities, and in the east of India, the infrastructure to receive it is being built up. Taking into account the specialization of the Far Eastern ports, the project should be implemented in an expanded geographical scope, including other regions in addition to Primorye, primarily the Khabarovsk Territory. We are ready to visit Chennai this October on a business mission and, with the participation of leading Russian exporters, to develop mutually beneficial solutions with the Indian side for the launch of the above lines. The NSR is a global transport project. Its development can provide economic benefits to both Russia and non-regional states. For India, this is an opportunity to increase sales of shipbuilding products and gain income from participation in the general logistics business in northern latitudes," the release said.

India, Russia agree on training for seafarers in polar, Arctic waters at Russian Maritime Training Institute in Vladivostok

Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us!
Washington, Sep 14

T he Republicans-led Congress' move to impeach incumbent US President Joe Biden when House Speaker Kevin McCarthy ordered without a majority vote, directing three of the committees led by the GOP to inquire into business dealings Biden's son had overseas is "disturbing and the weakest ever".

TIME quoted impeachment experts saying the launch of an impeachment inquiry against the President has happened only a handful of times and there is less evidence implication of Biden of wrongdoing than in any of these previous inquiries that yielded no concrete results or evidence.

Speaker McCarthy took the rare step on Tuesday of launching an impeachment inquiry into President Biden and his son Hunter over the latter's foreign business dealings by passing the usual measure of taking a vote, as he was under pressure from his GOP colleagues, and his action was mainly to placate the Republicans to prevent a possible showdown between the Democrats and Republicans leading to a government shutdown by month-end that he wanted to avoid, media reports circulating in the US said.

The House has voted to impeach just three Presidents Andrew Johnson, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trump, who was impeached twice. But even the launch of an impeachment inquiry against a President has only happened a handful of times. Two impeachment experts told TIME that there is less evidence implicating Biden of wrongdoing than in any of those previous inquiries.

"This is very disturbing for people who study past impeachments, because impeachment is really a very extreme measure," says constitutional scholar Philip Bobbitt, a professor at Columbia Law School and expert on the history of impeachment, who co-authored an updated edition of Charles Black's classic legal text, Impeachment A Handbook, in 2018.

"I honestly don't know that there is any evidence tying the President to corrupt activities when he was Vice-President or now."

TIME also quoted Frank Bowman, professor emeritus at the University of Missouri School of Law and author of the book "High Crimes and Misdemeanors A History of Impeachment for the Age of Trump", as saying that McCarthy's decision did not appear to be based on the evidence House Republicans have gathered thus far.

"Biden's Republican pursuers have got exactly zero, zip, bupkis, on any matter that might be impeachable," says Bowman.

The US Constitution empowers Congress to impeach and remove from office a President, Vice-President, or Federal Civil Officer for committing "treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors". However, an inquiry is not a legal requirement for impeaching a President, and the rules around what constitutes one are poorly defined.

Setting apart the five previous Presidents, who faced impeachment proceedings ought to have been impeached and convicted, there was at least some evidence indicating that they committed misconduct.

When impeachment was imminent for President Richard Nixon, he resigned before the House could formally impeach him. It was preceded by a special prosecutor investigation examining his ties to the Watergate burglary, as well as a Senate Special Committee inquiry into the break-in that went beyond a year. Reporting by journalists suggesting that responsibility for the incident and attempts to cover it up stretched into the administration also led to the impeachment move.

Two decades later, a month before the House launched an impeachment inquiry into President Bill Clinton, independent counsel Ken Starr released a report outlining 11 possible grounds for impeachment, including lying under oath and obstructing justice.

"In every single case, there was very significant evidence of presidential wrongdoing before the formal inquiry was begun," Bowman said adding, "The House, and House leadership, took the responsibility of formally opening such an inquiry extremely seriously. Nancy Pelosi, in the first impeachment, resisted calls for impeachment of Trump for two years."

McCarthy's inquiry, Bowman suggests, lacks that discipline.

"What they're doing here is absolutely shocking," says Bowman, who added that House Republicans "have no interest at all in preserving the basic integrity of the process, or indeed their own power as legislators in legitimate opposition and tension with the executive branch".

House Republicans have spent all year investigating Hunter Biden in hopes of proving that Joe Biden profited off his son's business dealings, particularly while Joe Biden was Vice-President. There has been no conclusive evidence indicating Joe Biden did anything wrong.

The impeachment move refers to two cases 1) That Joe Biden as Vice-President in 2017 was aware of Hunter Biden's involvement with the Ukrainian energy company Burisma and allegedly received bribery payments to promote the company in the US while sitting on their board. 2) Another charge against Hunter is that he illegally procured a gun while under the influence of cocaine -- US laws prohibit an individual from possessing a gun while under the influence of drugs. Republicans charged, Department of Justice quashed the case.

McCarthy had earlier indicated that the full House would hold a vote to open an impeachment inquiry into Biden. But such a vote would require the support of nearly every Republican in the narrowly-divided chamber. McCarthy went ahead launching the inquiry without a vote as 20 House Republicans expressed resistance to voting as full House vote could open them up to political liability.

The Speaker's decision to open the inquiry without a vote has precedent; Democrat Speaker Nancy Pelosi opened the second impeachment against former President Donald Trump following the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol without an inquiry at all while the first impeachement was voted for.

Move to impeach Biden 'absolutely shocking and weakest in history'

Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us!
Los Angeles, September 14

A ctor Drew Barrymore has been removed as National Book Awards host due to her decision to resume filming her talk show during the Hollywood writers' strike.

The update was shared by the National Book Foundation via a statement on Tuesday, US-based news portal Deadline reported.

"The National Book Awards is an evening dedicated to celebrating the power of literature, and the incomparable contributions of writers to our culture. Our commitment is to ensure that the focus of the Awards remains on celebrating writers and books, and we are grateful to Ms. Barrymore and her team for their understanding in this situation," the foundation said.

Barrymore had previously backed out of hosting the MTV Movie & TV Awards in support of the Writers Guild of America's strike. But earlier this week she announced her show would be returning, drawing anger from members of both the WGA and SAG-AFTRA.

Barrymore insisted that her talk show, set to return for its fourth season on September 18, will abide by the rules of the strike.

"I made a choice to walk away from the MTV, film and television awards because I was the host and it had a direct conflict with what the strike was dealing with which was studios, streamers, film, and television. It was also in the first week of the strike and so I did what I thought was the appropriate thing at the time to stand in solidarity with the writers. And to be clear, our talk show actually wrapped on April 20th so we never had to shut down the show. However, I am also making the choice to come back for the first time in this strike for our show, that may have my name on it but this is bigger than just me," she wrote.

She added, "I own this choice. We are in compliance with not discussing or promoting film and television that is struck of any kind. We launched live in a global pandemic. Our show was built for sensitive times and has only functioned through what the real world is going through in real time. I want to be there to provide what writers do so well, which is a way to bring us together or help us make sense of the human experience. I hope for a resolve for everyone as soon as possible. We have navigated difficult times since we first came on air. And so I take a step forward to start season 4 once again with an astute humility."

The National Book Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on Nov. 15 in New York City.

TV and film writers in the Writers Guild of America went on strike in May after the union was unable to come to a new contract agreement with the Hollywood studios and streamers.

SAG-AFTRA, the union representing 160,000 actors and performers, went on strike in July after they too were unable to reach a new contract agreement with major studios. Wages, streaming residuals and AI usage remain central issues in the stalemate.

Drew Barrymore dropped from hosting gig after resuming talk show amid strike

Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us!
Ruled MP for decades but left it high and dry: PM Modi attacks Cong as he lays foundation for projects worth over Rs 50 K cr

Bina, September 14

P rime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday laid the foundation stone for several projects worth more than Rs 50,700 crore in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, including a Petrochemical Complex and ten new industrial projects across the state.

While laying the foundation stone for a bouquet of projects in the state, PM Modi hit out at the Congress claiming that it left the state and its people high ahd dry during its rule.

"The party, which ruled this state for decades, left it high and dry and a laggard economically when compared to other states. People from previous generations would remember how the Congress left the state's Bundelkhand region in desperate need of water, electricity and roads. Today, under the BJP rule, new roads have been been built in every village and electricity has been provided to every household. I am convinced that Madhya Pradesh will touch new heights when it comes to industrialisation in the coming days," PM Modi said, addressing a massive gathering in Bina on Thursday.

The ten projects for which he laid the foundation stone include 'Power and Renewable Energy Manufacturing Zone' in the Narmadapuram district; two IT parks in Indore; a Mega Industrial Park in Ratlam and six new industrial areas across the state.

Later, addressing the gathering, he said the inauguration of the Petrochemical Complex at Bina Refinery would help in making India 'Atmanirbhar' .

"The inauguration of Petrochemical Complex at Bina Refinery today will help in making India Atmanirbhar. The modern petrochemical complex will take Bina to new heights. It will also go a long way in the setting up of more industries in the state. It will also open up new avenues for MSMEs and the youth will get job opportunities," he added.

Also expressing his gratitude to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, PM Modi said, "I want to thank Shivraj Singh Chouhan and his government for giving me the opportunity to come and meet the people of the state. Today, we are laying the foundation stone of projects worth more than Rs. 50,000 crores. The combined expense of these projects is more than the budget of many states."

He also thanked the people for contrbutung to the successful conduct of G20 events in the state.

The 'Power and Renewable Energy Manufacturing Zone, Narmadapuram' will be developed at a cost of more than Rs 460 crore and will mark a major step towards the economic growth and employment generation in the region. The 'IT Park 3 and 4' in Indore, to be built at a cost of about 550 crore, will provide an impetus to the state's IT and ITES sectors and open new employment opportunities for the youth, a government release stated.

The Mega Industrial Park in Ratlam will be built at a cost of more than Rs 460 crore and is envisaged to become a major hub for important sectors like textiles, automobiles, and pharmaceuticals, among others. The park will provide connectivity to the Delhi-Mumbai Motorway and will provide a major boost to the economic development of the entire region, generating direct and indirect employment opportunities for the youth, the state release added.

With the aim of promoting balanced regional development and uniform employment opportunities in the state, six new industrial areas will also be developed at Shajapur, Guna, Mauganj, Agar Malwa, Narmadapuram, and Maksi at a cumulative cost of about Rs 310 crore, the release added.

Ruled MP for decades but left it high and dry: PM Modi attacks Cong as he lays foundation for projects worth over Rs 50 K cr

Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us!
Bina, September 14

P rime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday attributed the success of the G20 summit to the people of the country and their "Samuhik Shakti" .

The summit, which featured the heads of all 20 major economies of the world as well as delagates from leading international organisations, was hosted in the national capital at the state-of-the-art Bharat Mandapam.

Among the major takeawas from the summit were the adoption of a New Delhi Declaration by the member states, the announcement of an India-Middle East-Europe Corridor and the formal induction of the African Union as a full member of the bloc.

PM Modi, who laid the foundation stone for a bouquet of projects worth more than Rs 50,700 crores, made the renark at a massive public gathering at Bina, Madhya Pradesh.

Weighing in on the success of the G20 Summit, PM Modi said, "We all were witness to how India successfully organised the G20 summit. The credit for this success goes to the 140 crore people of the country."

He added that the G20 leaders and delegates were impressed with the diversity and heritage of the country, which was showcased at the summit.

Extensive preparations were made to showcase India's traditions and strengths to a global audience. During its presidency of the G20, the Centre focused on highlighting the country's inclusive growth, digital innovation, climate resilience, and equitable global health access.

PM Modi, meanwhile, came down heavily on the Opposition bloc -- Indian National Developmental, Inclusive Alliance -- calling it "INDI-alliance".

He also accused the INDIA bloc of having an agenda to end 'Santan' culture.

"At a time when our country is emerging as a world leader at global forums, some parties are working to divide the country and its people. These people have come together under the INDI-alliance. Some people are calling it 'ghamndiya alliance'. They don't have a leader and there is a lot of suspense over who would lead them going into the general elections next year. They are a hidden agenda -- to attack and destroy our time-honoured Sanatan culture," PM Modi said.

He added that the Opposition bloc, at its third meeting in Mumbai, adopted a resolution to "end the Santan culture".

"The INDI-alliance adopted a resolution to end the 'Sanatan' culture. They are bent on destroying our ideologies, culture and traditions, which have held the country and its people together for centuries," PM Modi said.

He also exhorted 'Sanatanis' across the country and the people to be awake and alert to such ploys by the Oppsition to abuse and assault the country's ancient culture and practices.

"Those with the INDI-alliance want to erase that Sanatan Dharma, which the likes of Swami Vivekananda and Lokmanya Tilak drew inspiration from. They want to destroy 'Sanatan Dharma'. Today they are openly targeting Sanatan. Tomorrow, they might even attack the believers of Sanatan. All 'Sanatanis' across the country need to be alert to this threat. We will have to stop such people from succeeding in their ulterior designs," he added.

PM Modi thanks 140 crore Indians, their "collective spirit" for success of G20 summit

Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us!
On Hindi Diwas, Anupam Kher says Hindi has contributed to every aspect of his life

Mumbai, Sep 14

V eteran actor Anupam Kher posted a somewhat humorous tweet on Hindi Diwas on Thursday, saying that the language has contributed immensely in every aspect of his life, and that cuss words in Hindi by his friends and his mother's scolding him in Hindi seem fine to him.

In a post on the occasion of Hindi Diwas, celebrated every year on September 14, Kher also said that when some Indian friend speaks continuously in English for a long time, then it gives immense pleasure to shut them up by saying "Oye bas kar". He posted some emojis of a grinning mischievous face with his tweet.

Taking to X, formerly twitter, he extended heartfelt greetings to the people on the occasion of Hindi Diwas.

Translated in English, his post read "Hindi has played a very major role in every aspect of my life. In the field of acting, the ability to speak good Hindi makes more than half of your work look fine. Hindi has always helped to boost my self confidence. Hindi songs have always entertained me and soothed me."

He further mentioned "Hindi cuss words spoken by friends and scoldings by my mother in Hindi have always seemed fine to me. And when someone inflicts English on us for a long time, then we feel really happy in ticking them off by saying "Oye bas kar" (Hey, end it now!)"

Earlier, on Wednesday, Kher had posted a tweet with emojis of three broken hearts and the Indian flag, along with the photos of the three security officials martyred in a gunbattle with terrorists.

Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of 19-Rashtriya Rifles, Major Ashish Dhonchak of the same regiment and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat of Jammu and Kashmir Police were martyred in an encounter in Anantnag with terrorists in Kashmir.

On Hindi Diwas, Anupam Kher says Hindi has contributed to every aspect of his life

Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us!
5 yrs of 'Manmarziyaan': Amit Trivedi says collaborating with Anurag Kashyap is always 'special'

Mumbai, Sep 14

M usic composer Amit Trivedi, who is known for his work on the soundtracks of 'Dev.D', 'Lootera', 'Queen', 'Dear Zindagi', 'Udta Punjab' and others, celebrated the fifth anniversary of his film 'Manmarziyaan' which starred Taapsee Pannu, Abhishek Bachchan and Vicky Kaushal in the lead.

For the film, Amit collaborated with filmmaker Anurag Kashyap with whom the composer made his Bollywood debut in 'Dev.D'.

The 'Manmarziyaan' soundtrack mixes Punjabi beats with a modern twist and has 12 songs. 'Daryaa' is one gem that tugs at the heartstrings of the audience. 'Grey Walaa Shade' perfectly captures the idea that love doesn't follow rules.

Talking about the album, Amit said "Collaborating with Anurag Kashyap is always special, and 'Manmarziyaan' is one of the most special albums. The love that I receive for it is still overwhelming. Whenever we perform live, songs like 'Daryaa' and 'Bijlee Giregi' are favourites among the audience."

"The album comprises such different genres, and creating each of them was so much fun. We also had the privilege of using Amrita Pritam's iconic poetry in one of the sequences, and that was a very special moment for us. I hope this album continues to be cherished by generations to come," he added.

The combination of Anurag Kashyap and Amit Trivedi is always a recipe for something iconic.

Their collaboration on 'Bombay Velvet' resulted in one of the finest but underrated oundtracks in Hindi cinema as 'Bombay Velvet' stands tall as the only full Jazz album in Hindi cinema.

aa/prw

5 yrs of 'Manmarziyaan': Amit Trivedi says collaborating with Anurag Kashyap is always 'special'

Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us!
India's own GPS support in iPhone 15 a significant move, we plan to make it standard practice: MoS IT

New Delhi, Sep 14

A pple extending its support for ISRO-created navigation system called NavIC for iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max is a significant achievement for the country and the government is planning to make it a standard practice that all devices using GPS technology should have NavIC-powered chipsets inside, Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, said on Thursday.

Apple has adopted the Indian satellite navigation system NavIC, an alternative to the Global Positioning System (GPS), for its high-end iPhone 15 Pro and the iPhone 15 Pro Max models for location-based services.

This is the first time the iPhone maker has extended support for NavIC to its iPhone models.

"After the successful missions of Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1, we have reached another big milestone with ISRO's NavIC technology. Now, for the very first time, the iPhone 15 Pro series has extended support for the NavIC technology. The endorsement of NavIC as a global positioning system technology, or a solution incorporated into the most popular and most widely used device in the world, is certainly not a small thing," the minister told reporters.

India aims to expand NavIC coverage globally and it wants tech companies to make their devices compatible with the new standard before then.

To meet the positioning, navigation and timing requirements of the nation, ISRO established a regional navigation satellite system called Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC).

Accord Software and Systems is the first in India to design NavIC chips. They've created more than a million NAVIC IC chips using advanced 28-nanometer technology.

"We're planning to make it a standard practice that all devices using GPS technology should have NAVIC-powered chipsets or NAVIC chips inside. When you look at the IT PLI scheme this time, it includes incentives for system designers and manufacturers who incorporate Indian-designed chips into their products," said Chandrasekhar.

As mobile phone designs and chip technology continue to mature and reach the granularity and the sophistication required for mobile devices, "the chips powering those devices could very well be NavIC chips," he stressed.

NavIC coverage area includes India and a region up to 1,500 km beyond Indian boundary, according to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

NavIC signals are interoperable with the other global navigation satellite system (GNSS) signals namely GPS, Glonass, Galileo and BeiDou.

According to Chandrasekhar, 'Make in India' iPhone 15 represents another big milestone in the country's electronic and semiconductor progress.

"Another milestone is that on the very same day, when a customer in New York, Tokyo or London receives brand-new iPhone 15, an Indian customer will also receive an iPhone 15. The only difference is that the iPhone in London is 'Made in China' while the iPhone in India is manufactured in India," the minister emphasised.

This demonstrates the coming of age of India's presence in the global electronic supply chain, he added.

With iPhone 15, Apple has made India a sweet spot in its future scheme of things, as it doubles down on local manufacturing.

Driven by the premiumisation of the smartphone market, uptick in first-time users who are shifting from Android to the Apple ecosystem and a young population, India is now among the top five global markets for Apple.

India's own GPS support in iPhone 15 a significant move, we plan to make it standard practice: MoS IT

Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us!
Punjab to give impetus to industrialisation in border districts: Mann

Amritsar, Sep 14

P unjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday announced to give impetus to industrialisation in border districts of the state.

Interacting with industrialists during the maiden Sarkar Sannatkar Milni programme, Mann, who was accompanying his Delhi counterpart Arvind Kejriwal, said the government is committed to ensure the holistic development of the industry in the border region.

He said the process of border identification will be streamlined soon by incorporating the necessary changes.

Mann said this would help giving major fillip to the industry in the state, especially in the border region.

Mann said during the run-up for the elections they had promised certain guarantees to the industrialists.

Now after 18 months of formation of the government they were here to list the achievements in various sectors.

Mann said no stone would be left unturned for facilitating the industry.

The Chief Minister said the government would ensure judicious use of canal water for the industrial units on the lines of water being provided to the farmers for agriculture purposes.

This would facilitate the industry in its smooth working and facilitation.

The Chief Minister announced to set up a dedicated force to facilitate the tourists coming in district on every day.

He said Amritsar witnesses a footfall of around one lakh pilgrims daily and special force is required to cater to their needs. Mann said this dedicated unit of Punjab Police will have separate uniform and dress code so that they can be identified easily.

The Chief Minister also announced to embark e-bus shuttle service in here in the coming days.

He said this would help reducing the pollution level in the city and thereby facilitating the pilgrims and residents in a big way.

Mann said this is the need of hour for further developing Amritsar as hub of tourism.

The Chief Minister also said the government is all set to introduce artificial intelligence in police and traffic management. This would help enhancing the efficiency of the police on scientific lines for the welfare of people.

The Chief Minister said that due to concerted efforts of the government investment worth Rs 50,840 crore has been roped in for the state.

Punjab to give impetus to industrialisation in border districts: Mann

Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us!
New Delhi, September 14

C ongress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday shared glimpses of his recent visit to Ladakh through his motorcycle diary saying that it broke his heart to see a sense of betrayal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he lied about China not occupying our land.

"Ladakh is one of India's crown jewels, and one of the world's most important strategic locations. It broke my heart to see a sense of betrayal in the eyes of the people of Ladakh. They felt betrayed by the Prime Minister when he lied about China not occupying our land," sharing the video of his journey titled 'Motorcycle Diaries' Listening to Ladakh, on YouTube, Rahul Gandhi said.

He further said that they felt betrayed by the BJP government when it failed to fulfil any of the promises it made to them. A government must empower all its people, and Ladakh needs good governance.

The Congress leader further said, "My father once told me that Pangong Tso Lake is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. I've always yearned to go to Ladakh, to witness the majestic views, listen to the people, understand their problems, and share their happiness."

As I continued on my Bharat Jodo Yatra, I thought to myself, what better way to visit Ladakh than on a motorcycle! And so began this epic journey, he added.

He recalled the experience of his visit to Ladakh and said that, "Flanked by my fellow bike riders, I experienced one of the most exhilarating journeys of my life on my bike. The 1000+ kilometers we rode were filled with pure adrenaline and camaraderie."

I saw great potential in these youngsters, to think outside the box and not be afraid to push the boundaries, he said.

Recalling the meeting with the people Rahul said, "In every village and town we passed by, from Leh to Kargil, we were embraced by the incredible Ladakhi people. They are humble, empathetic, and resilient. Their wisdom about Ladakh is unmatched, and any plan for the future development of the region must be based on their inputs. Without hesitation, I can say, the most beautiful part about Ladakh is its people."

He further added that it was inspiring to revel in the spirit of patriotism with our Ex-servicemen, on-duty Army and Police personnel, the BRO officers and workers whom I met during this journey. They are the brave sons of our Bharat Mata.

I will do everything I can to amplify the democratic voice of Ladakh, he added.

Congress leader visited Ladakh for over eight days from August 17 to 25 and visited Leh, Pangong Tso Lake area, Kargil and many other parts of Ladakh.

He also paid tribute to his father and former Prime Minister, Rajiv Gandhi, on his 79th birth anniversary from the banks of Pangong Lake in Ladakh.

It broke my heart..., Rahul Gandhi in 'Motorcycle Diaries'

Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us!
Mumbai, September 14

A ctor Avinash Tiwary has all the reasons to celebrate as his latest action thriller web series, 'Bambai Meri Jaan' is receiving positive responses from the audience and critics.

He is overwhelmed with the love and appreciation his latest project is receiving and expressing his happiness, he shared, "I am very grateful that 'Bambai Meri Jaan' is garnering so much love from the audience. It's really a very special project as it is my second project and the first Indian show that held its global premiere in London."

"I am extremely overwhelmed since the reviews have been remarkable. Now, my show has finally been released, and watching the abundance of love coming in from everyone is a moment that I have always dreamt of. I am very thankful to the entire team, my director, co-stars, family, and all the fans. Here, I am gearing up for my second release, 'Kaala', so this phase of my life can't be more exciting for me," he added.

Avinash started his career with 'Yudh' in 2014 and later acted in 'Tu Hai Mera Sunday', 'Laila Majnu', 'Khakee The Bihar Chapter', among others.

'Bambai Meri Jaan' also stars Kay Kay Menon, Kritika Kamra, Nivedita Bhattacharya and Amyra Dastur. It is streaming on Prime Video.

I am extremely overwhelmed: Avinash Tiwary on 'Bambai Meri Jaan'

Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us!
Shelly Mayo knows students learn more than basic facts by participating in the Science Olympiad.

Mayo teaches sixth, seventh and eighth grade science at Aquinas Catholic Schools in David City. For years, Aquinas students have participated in the Olympiad, a nationwide program in which they can compete in 23 events pertaining to various scientific fields such as biology, physics and engineering.

The teacher believes the Olympiad enhances students understanding of science.

Moreover, they can learn problem-solving skills and perseverance as they work through the projects trial-and-error aspects  both of which can help them in their daily lives now and in the future. In addition, the projects can foster creativity and outside-the-box thinking.

So, its kind of school-related, but its life, too, Mayo said.

Mayo said Aquinas has 99 middle-schoolers, however she can have only 15 on a team. Interested students write a paragraph saying what would make them a good team member and why theyd like to join.

Shell then select 15 team members with a couple of alternates in case someone gets sick.

Mayo believes shell choose team members by Sept. 15 and theyll start meeting on Sept. 26. Practices usually take place from 3:30 to about 4:15 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Students can participate in one or all 23 events. Sometimes, a team member may be participating in three different events.

Mayo said event projects could involve building an airplane using a propeller and rubber bands and seeing how long it can stay in the air.

Or students may design and build a small roller coaster. Theyll see if a marble will travel along the coasters track in a certain amount of time.

Or theyll build a little car, powered by rubber bands or a mouse trap and compete with other students to see how far their vehicle will go.

During the afterschool practices, students meet with partners and build one of these devices or collect information to be ready to take a test at a competition.

The first competition is set for Saturday, Feb. 17, at Omahas Henry Doorly Zoo. Another competition will take place Saturday, March 16, at Brownell Talbot High School in Omaha. The state competition will be on Saturday, April 27, at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln East Campus. All teams get to participate in state competition.

Whichever team gets the most points at state competition proceeds to national competition.

Weve never gone to nationals, Mayo said. Last year, we got third place.

Thats a big deal, she said, considering that Aquinas is competing against Omaha schools.

Its stiff competition, so we were pretty proud we got as far as we did, she said.

This marks Mayos seventh year of leading the team. Aquinas has participated for many years.

Mayo said Aquinas hasnt always had a high school Olympiad team.

This year, I think were going to try getting a high schoolers involved, too, Mayo said.

Mayo appreciates how the Olympiad benefits students.

It uses the science that we learn in class and then they can take it and be curious and learn even more in-depth, Mayo said. They can apply what theyve learned, whether they build something, they take a test or perform some kind of an activity at the event.
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Cloudy and windy this evening becoming clear late. Low 24F. Winds NW at 20 to 30 mph. Higher wind gusts possible..

Tonight

Cloudy and windy this evening becoming clear late. Low 24F. Winds NW at 20 to 30 mph. Higher wind gusts possible.
There are five recently renovated churches in the area that will be visited that day including Immaculate Conception in Ulysses, Assumption Catholic Church in Dwight, St. Anthonys in Bruno, Presentation Parish in rural Bellwood, and St. Marys Church in David City. At each church, a presentation will be made about the church remodeling, and there will be a short time for prayer and reflection. Following the event, Fr. Conner will host a meal at 5:30 p.m. in the back yard of St. Marys Rectory.
District staff of Congressman Mike Flood will be hosting mobile office hours from 10-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 21, at David City Public Library, 399 N. Fifth St.

During the office hours, district office team members will be available to assist with challenges regarding federal agencies, military academy nominations, scheduling requests and other needs constituents might encounter.

Congressman Flood maintains permanent offices in Lincoln and in Washington, D.C. Location and contact information for the permanent offices can be found at https://flood.house.gov.
Orocraniodigital syndrome (OS), also known as Juberg-Hayward syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive condition.

Cleft lip is a common observation in orocraniodigital syndrome. Image Credit: PeopleImages.com - Yuri A/Shutterstock.com

Multiple abnormalities of the head and face (craniofacial area), as well as the fingers and toes, characterize it. OS is a polymalformative syndrome that includes microcephaly, facial dysmorphism, urogenital anomalies, and intellectual deficiency in addition to various skeletal anomalies. Some patients have been diagnosed with microcephaly.

History

In 1969, Juberg and Hayward identified a condition that manifested itself orally, cranially, and digitally in five of six siblings infants.

Cleft lip and palate, microcephaly, hypoplasia and distal placement of the thumbs, and elbow abnormalities limiting extension were all present in the two brothers. Three of the four sisters, as well as one of the brothers, had toe abnormalities. Microcephaly, stiff thumbs, and a forme fruste cleft lip were found among the sisters.

Kingston et al. described a single instance in 1982. A 17-year-old had bilateral nonexistent thumbs, aberrant carpal bones, radial head malformation, and small stature, in addition to unilateral cleft lip and palate (143.3 cm). He was discovered to be deficient in growth hormone. By X-ray, the sella turcica was normal.

Nevin et al. (1981) described a case of a female with small stature due to the lack of the pituitary fossa but no obvious endocrine abnormalities. Three nonfamilial examples of orocraniodigital syndrome were described by Verloes et al. (1992).

Mental retardation (unrelated to the severity of the abnormalities), anterior anal displacement, and ptosis were all new traits discovered by Verloes et al. (1992).

According to Verloes et al. (1992), recessive inheritance was likely, but the autosomal dominant inheritance could not be completely ruled out, therefore caution should be exercised in genetic counseling of parents of afflicted children and affected patients themselves.

Causes and symptoms

In 2021, Kantaputra et al. reported the genetic cause behind this syndrome for the first time. According to their report, OS is caused by a new homozygous base substitution in the establishment of the cohesion 1 homolog 2 (ESCO2) gene, which results in a nonsense mutation.

In the majority (>80%) of patients, intrauterine growth retardation, severe short stature, microcephaly, cleft lip or palate, and wide nose are observed. Around 30-75% of patients exhibit symptoms such as abnormal vertebral morphology, horseshoe kidney, hypertelorism, hammertoe, hypospadias, oral cleft, scoliosis, and abnormality of elbows, ribs, and wrist. Other symptoms that may also be present include radioulnar synostosis, toe syndactyly, and intellectual disability. Less than 30% of patients experience anteriorly placed anus, dandy-Walker malformation, limited bone extension, abnormal abdomen morphology, abnormality of the toe, and ptosis.

ECOS2 gene

ESCO2 is a 601-amino-acid acetyltransferase that has two conserved sections, a Zn finger-like motif, and a C-terminal acetyltransferase domain. It belongs to the Eco1 family of acetyltransferases.

This protein is involved in the formation of sister chromatid cohesion throughout the S phase and until their separation during anaphase. It is also involved in post-replicative sister chromatid cohesion, which is triggered by double-strand breaks.

The heterochromatic areas around centromeres and in the long arm of the Y chromosomes in patients with ESCO2 mutations display a typical lack of cohesion.

Epidemiology

The prevalence of OS is <1/1,000,000. Very few cases have been reported in the medical literature.

Case report

In 2021, Kantaputra et al. described a 2-year-old Lisu Thai girl with proportionately small stature, microcephaly, ptosis, a hanging nasal columella, and corrected cleft lip and palate. Her fingers were small, with the second and fifth fingers being especially short, and she had clinodactyly in the fifth finger.

She also exhibited cutaneous syndactyly between fingers 2-3 and 4-5 on both sides. Elbow joint movement had been restricted since birth, with pronation and supination severely reduced. Shortening of the metacarpals and phalanges of the thumbs, as well as the proximal and middle phalanges of the second and fifth fingers, was discovered on radiographic evaluation. Furthermore, the carpal bones had a late bone age.

Orocraniodigital syndrome and Roberts syndrome

Microcephaly, cleft lip and palate, ptosis, upper limb and digit anomalies, and autosomal recessive inheritance are all hallmarks of both orocraniodigital syndrome and Roberts syndrome.

Homozygous mutations in ESCO2, which cause acetyltransferase activity to be lost, have been shown to have a role in the pathophysiology of Roberts syndrome. OS was recently discovered to be caused by a homozygous mutation in the ESCO2 gene, implying that it is allelic with Roberts syndrome.

Diagnosis and treatment

Based on a thorough clinical evaluation, Orocraniodigital Syndrome is usually diagnosed immediately after delivery (neonatal period). The intensity and characteristics of each instance determine how this disease is treated.

Some of the craniofacial abnormalities associated with this condition may be corrected with surgery. Cleft lip in infants, for example, may necessitate surgery; in some situations, additional surgery may be required as the child gets older.

Cleft palates can also be corrected surgically. Surgical correction of hand and/or foot abnormalities related to OS is possible in some circumstances.

Affected individuals and their families will benefit from genetic counseling. For babies and children with this disease, a multidisciplinary approach that includes social, educational, and medical assistance may be beneficial. Symptomatic and supportive treatment is necessary.

References

Juberg-Hayward syndrome. [Online] NIH-GARD. Available at: https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/3060/juberg-hayward-syndrome

JUBERG-HAYWARD SYNDROME; JHS. [Online] OMIM. Available at: https://www.omim.org/entry/216100

Orocraniodigital Syndrome. [Online] National Organization for rare disorders. Available at: https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/orocraniodigital-syndrome

Juberg-Hayward syndrome. [Online] Orphanet. Available at: https://www.orpha.net/consor/cgi-bin/Disease_Search.php?lng=EN&data_id=2175&Disease_Disease_Search_diseaseType=ORPHA&Disease_Disease_Search_diseaseGroup=2319&Disease(s)/group%20of%20diseases=Orocraniodigital-syndrome&title=Orocraniodigital-syndrome&search=Disease_Search_Simp

Berger M, Rost I, & Schmidt H (2011). A novel chromosomal aberration in a child with suspected Juberg-Hayward syndrome. Clinical Dysmorphology, 20(2), 121126. doi: 10.1097/MCD.0b013e328341679e

10.1097/MCD.0b013e328341679e Kantaputra PN, Dejkhamron P, Tongsima S, et al. (2020). Juberg-Hayward syndrome and Roberts syndrome are allelic, caused by mutations in ESCO2. Archives of Oral Biology, 119, 104918. doi: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2020.104918

10.1016/j.archoralbio.2020.104918 Kantaputra PN, Dejkhamron P, Intachai W, et al. (2021). Juberg-Hayward syndrome is a cohesinopathy, caused by mutation in ESCO2. European Journal of Orthodontics, 43(1), 4550. doi:10.1093/ejo/cjaa023

Further Reading
Robust navigation is both critical for survival and dauntingly complex: Think of the speed and agility of an airborne fly.

A multidisciplinary team of researchers led by Itai Cohen, professor of physics in the College of Arts and Sciences, will use the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, to study how the brain forms a coherent representation from multisensory information, corrects for errors from perturbations and generates robust behaviors.

The project, supported by a $6.5 million grant from the NIH Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, has potential for insight into human neurological function.

We are gearing up to understand how the flight integrates sensory modality from the antenna, the eyes and the halteres [balancing organs] in the fly brain. The goal is to understand how the fly integrates sensory information when the sensors agree with one another about what is happening and when they are in conflict." Itai Cohen, Professor of Physics, College of Arts and Sciences

The researchers will look into whether the flies prioritize some sensors over others, and whether these prioritizations change with environmental conditions, the way a person might navigate by touch rather than sight in the dark.

The fruit fly offers researchers a rich suite of complex behaviors, a full brain connectome (all the neurons and their connections) and powerful genetic and physiological tools, Cohen said.

The timing of this study also takes advantage of recent major advances in the field. The full fly connectome has been mapped and published this year, and a new library of genetically modified flies, in which individual neurons can be turned on and off with light, has been developed. The researchers will be building new state-of-the-art facilities that take advantage of these techniques and combine them with visual, wind and or magnetic perturbations of flies while measuring the resulting wing and body motions.

In addition to Cohen's lab at Cornell, participating labs are led by: Noah Cowan, Department of Mechanical Engineering at Johns Hopkins University; Brad Dickerson, Princeton Neuroscience Institute at Princeton University; Jessica Fox, Department of Biology at Case Western Reserve University; Sung Soo Kim, Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology at the University of California, Santa Barbara; and Marie Suver, Department of Biological Sciences at Vanderbilt University.

Students and postdoctoral researchers trained through this grant will be able to access facilities in these labs as well.
Today, the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) released the 13th edition of its annual Cancer Progress Report, which chronicles how basic, translational, and clinical cancer research and cancer-related population sciences-;primarily supported by federal investments in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI)-;remain vitally important to improving health and saving lives.

In addition to providing the latest statistics on cancer incidence, mortality, and survivorship, the AACR Cancer Progress Report 2023 offers detailed updates and important context regarding the latest research in cancer etiology, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and survivorship. Throughout the report, the personal stories of patients who have benefited from innovative, recently approved anticancer therapeutics highlight the real-world impact of cancer research.

This comprehensive report also features a spotlight on cancer immunotherapy and addresses persistent challenges in cancer research, including cancer disparities, slow progress against certain types of cancer, and the physical, psychosocial, and financial hardships faced by cancer patients, survivors, and their caregivers. A closing call to action outlines steps Congress and other stakeholders must take to ensure that the U.S. maintains its momentum against cancer for the benefit of all patients.

The advances in cancer research, particularly in the last two decades, have been breathtaking. We are in an era of unparalleled opportunity to make even more breakthroughs for patients. For the cancer research community to achieve these breakthroughs, however, our representatives in Congress must continue to prioritize funding for biomedical research, from basic research to clinical trials. Through the AACR Cancer Progress Report 2023, we are sharing with the public and policy makers the progress that has been made, how that progress has been delivered to patients, how it's changed people's lives, and the unparalleled opportunities that now exist from scientific and technologic advances, so they understand how crucial it is that we maintain this momentum through continued support of NIH and NCI." Philip Greenberg, MD, FAACR, AACR President

Promising trends and advances in cancer care

The medical research community-;including researchers in academia and industry, physician-scientists, patient advocates, regulators, and many other stakeholders-;has maintained impressive momentum against cancer in recent years. As outlined in the AACR Cancer Progress Report 2023:

From August 1, 2022, to July 31, 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved 14 new anticancer therapeutics, including: A new gene therapy-based immunotherapeutic for certain patients with bladder cancer A first-in-class antibody drug conjugate for patients with ovarian cancer Four new T-cell engaging bispecific antibodies for a range of hematologic malignancies

During this same time frame, the FDA approved two new imaging agents and expanded the use of 12 previously approved anticancer therapeutics to treat additional cancer types, including: The first approval of an immune checkpoint inhibitor for pediatric and adult patients with a rare form of sarcoma

Due in large part to advances in prevention, early detection, and treatment, the age-adjusted overall cancer death rate in the U.S. fell by 33% between 1991 and 2020-;an estimated 3.8 million cancer deaths averted.

This reduction is driven by declines in mortality from various cancer types, including breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer, as well as melanoma. For example: Breast cancer mortality declined by 43% between 1989 and 2020, leading to an estimated 460,000 fewer breast cancer deaths. The decrease in lung cancer mortality has accelerated from 0.9% a year between 1995 and 2005 to nearly 5% a year between 2014 and 2020. This rapid decline is the result of a steep reduction in the U.S. smoking rate as well as the development of numerous highly effective molecularly targeted therapeutics and immunotherapeutics.

More and better treatment options have led to notable progress against many pediatric cancers as well. Among children (14 and younger) and adolescents (15-19), overall cancer death rates declined by 70% and 64%, respectively, between 1970 and 2020.

The immunotherapy revolution

Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer care. Breakthroughs in this field have contributed to much of the progress noted above, such as declines in the death rates for previously intractable cancers like advanced lung cancer and melanoma. The AACR Cancer Progress Report 2023 contains a spotlight on the history of cancer immunotherapy, the current state of this treatment modality, and the immense promise of the next generation of immunotherapeutics. Highlights include:

Since 2011, the FDA has approved 11 immune checkpoint inhibitors, which release "brakes" on the surface of certain immune cells-;called T cells-;so that the T cells are able to destroy cancer cells. Many of these drugs are approved for more than one type of cancer, making immune checkpoint inhibitors a treatment option for 20 cancer types and any tumor with certain specific molecular characteristics.

Since 2017, the FDA has approved six CAR T-cell therapies to treat a range of hematologic malignancies. CAR T-cell therapy is a type of adoptive cell therapy, which is designed to dramatically increase the number of cancer-killing immune cells a patient has.

The field is expanding in exciting ways, with researchers combining the power of other cells in the immune system with recent advances in gene editing to develop more personalized and effective versions of adoptive cell therapy for treatment of solid tumors; developing mRNA-based vaccines and therapeutics to treat cancer; and targeting the gut microbiome to increase the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy, among many other innovative approaches.

Despite progress, challenges persist

Despite the extraordinary scientific progress against cancer in recent years, this complex disease remains a significant threat to human health around the world. In the U.S., it is estimated that nearly 2 million new cases of cancer will be diagnosed and more than 609,000 people will die from the disease in 2023.

Indeed, cancer research and patient care face numerous challenges, as outlined in the AACR Cancer Progress Report 2023:

Cancer disparities are a pervasive public health problem, with racial and ethnic minorities and other medically underserved U.S. populations shouldering a disproportionally higher burden of cancer. While advances have been made in identifying, understanding, and addressing some of these disparities, more research and policy solutions are urgently needed to ensure equitable progress against cancer.

There has been uneven progress against different cancer types. Few treatment options exist for patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer or glioblastoma, for example, and 5-year relative survival rates for these cancers are extremely low.

Incidence rates for some cancers are increasing, including for early-onset colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and uterine cancer, in part due to the rising rate of obesity.

Financial toxicity is widespread, exacerbated by the rising cost of cancer care. In 2019, U.S. cancer patients paid an estimated $16.2 billion in out-of-pocket cancer care costs and lost an additional $5 billion in "time costs."

Federal funding essential for continued progress

To confront these and other challenges, the AACR Cancer Progress Report 2023 calls on Congress to support robust, sustained, and predictable annual funding growth for NIH and NCI by providing increases of at least $3.465 billion and $2.6 billion, respectively, in their fiscal year 2024 base budgets. This funding is crucial to continued progress for patients. From 2010 to 2019, NIH funding contributed to the development of 354 out of 356 new drugs, including many cancer drugs, approved by the FDA.

The AACR also urges Congress to:

Provide $1.7 billion in dedicated funding for Cancer Moonshot activities in FY 2024 across NCI, FDA, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) with the assurance that Moonshot funding will supplement rather than supplant NIH funding in FY 2024.

Appropriate at least $472.4 million in FY 2024 appropriations for the CDC Division of Cancer Prevention to support comprehensive cancer control, central cancer registries, and screening and awareness programs for specific cancers.

Allocate $50 million in funding for the Oncology Center of Excellence at FDA in FY 2024 to allow regulators with the capable staff and necessary tools to conduct expedited review of cancer-related medical products.

"We are proud to release the 13th annual AACR Cancer Progress Report," said AACR CEO Margaret Foti, PhD, MD (hc). "It is our hope that this comprehensive resource will help to increase knowledge about the myriad diseases we call cancer as well as the innovative research that is improving and extending lives. The findings in this report, along with the personal stories of the featured patients, underscore the enormous impact that robust, sustained, and predictable funding for cancer research has had on Americans' health, and why that support must continue."
HIV anti-retroviral therapy is considered a treatment and not a cure because patients usually carry a reservoir of HIV-infected cells that can re-emerge if treatment stops. These reservoirs have long been thought to be dormant, but two independent groups of researchers report in the journal Cell Host & Microbe on September 13th that a subset of these cells spontaneously produce HIV RNA and proteins that may impact patients' HIV-specific immune responses.

"It's a deceptively dormant virus," says immunovirologist Daniel Kaufmann of the University Hospital of Lausanne, the University of Lausanne, and l'Universite de Montreal, who is senior author on one of the papers . "Even in people who are treated, HIV continues to have some activity, and it continues to interact with the immune system. We have to understand if these ongoing interactions have clinically relevant consequences."

Previous studies have shown that when "dormant" HIV reservoir cells are reactivated in the lab, they produce viral RNA and proteins, but it wasn't clear whether this phenomenon was happening inside the bodies of people with HIV. "We wanted to understand if this phenomenon is real and, if it is, what parts of the virus are being expressed and do they have an impact on the immune system," says Kaufmann.

To do this, the researchers took blood samples from 18 people with HIV who had all had been on anti-retrovirals-;drugs that block HIV growth without actually killing the virus-;for more than 3 years. Then, they used a lab method called RNA flow cytometry to sort CD4+ or "helper" T cells (the type of cell that HIV selectively infects) based on whether they were infected with HIV and, then further, whether they were actively producing HIV RNA or proteins. The researchers also characterized the T cells by role-;e.g., whether they were the type of T helper cell that combats intracellular viruses or the type that combats extracellular bacteria-;to determine whether any subtypes of CD4+ T cells were more likely to host HIV reservoirs.

Our technique allows us to look at the individual cells to see if they contain the virus and which parts of the virus they are expressing. For each patient, we could estimate how many of these cells are still active, and we could also look for associations between viral characteristics and cell characteristics." Mathieu Dube, immunovirologist at l'Universite de Montreal and first author

The researchers found that 14 of the 18 patients had HIV reservoirs that spontaneously produced viral RNA. For 7 of the 18 patients, the viral reservoirs also produced viral proteins including p24, a component of HIV's shell.

"Most of the virus that remains in the body is defective or junk virus that cannot really multiply, but we found these defective viruses can still produce virus RNA and sometimes proteins," says Kaufmann.

Though these pieces of viral RNA and protein were non-functional "debris," the researchers found that they were enough to stimulate an immune response. Since stronger HIV-specific immune responses were associated with more active HIV reservoirs, the researchers suspect that this immune response may be unhelpful, but more research is needed to test that hypothesis.

"Our data suggest that the RNA and proteins produced by these viral reservoirs could be drivers of inflammation," says Kaufmann. "This could be important because a subset of the people who are successfully treated with anti-retroviral therapy for HIV still have negative consequences of living with the infection-;for example, accelerated cardiac disease, frailty, and premature osteoporosis."

When they investigated which types of CD4+ T cells were more likely to harbor active viral reservoirs, the researchers found that the active HIV reservoirs were hosted by T cells with a range of phenotypes and functions, though some types did tend to carry more virus than others.

"Some subsets seem to be more prone to hosting viruses, for example, memory cells and Th17 cells that are involved in immune protection in the gut, but there's no clear, unique type of CD4+ T cell that hosts the virus," says Dube. "You can have viruses in most CD4+ T cells."

Though all the patients in the study were white males, the researchers still observed substantial variation between patients. They say that future studies should further investigate these inter-patient differences and investigate HIV reservoirs in a more diverse suite of patients.

The second paper, led by immunologist Lydie Trautmann at the Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute of Oregon Health and Science University, also reported that a subset of CD4+ T cells spontaneously express viral RNA during anti-retroviral therapy, specifically in cohorts of Thai participants that initiated therapy at acute versus chronic infection. Fewer viral proteins were seen in patients with acute infection but similar immune responses between both groups were observed.

"Our study suggests that residual immune dysfunction driven by the active HIV reservoir on anti-retroviral therapies could contribute to the lack of viral control after analytical treatment interruption by preventing the differentiation of functional stem-like self-renewing HIV-specific CD8+ T cells that can mount efficient rapid recall responses," write the authors. "Therefore, HIV remission strategies will likely need to target transcriptionally active proviruses producing viral proteins during anti-retroviral therapies to harness HIV-specific CD8+ T cells to control rebounding of the virus after therapy cessation."
IIASA is proud to announce the launch of its Flagship Report, "Systems Analysis for Sustainable Wellbeing. 50 Years of IIASA Research, 40 Years After the Brundtland Commission, Contributing to the Post-2030 Global Agenda" on Wednesday, 13 September 2023 at an official UN event in the framework of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly and the Sustainable Development Goals mid-term review.

The IIASA Flagship Report chronicles the extraordinary 50-year journey of IIASA, a globally renowned institute providing systems analytical expertise on complex global challenges. Co-sponsored by the Permanent Missions of Austria and South Africa to the UN and supported by the Department of Science and Technology of South Africa, this event is set to unveil crucial insights from the report. Notably, the publication features a foreword contribution by H.E. Alexander Van der Bellen, the Federal President of the Republic of Austria, who has been a steadfast supporter of IIASA and its research initiatives.

The event will bring together policymakers, scientists, and representatives from various sectors to discuss the report's key aspects and the importance of advancing the 2030 Agenda. Several leading IIASA researchers and high-level collaborators including Csaba Korosi, President of the 77th session of the UN General Assembly; Alexander Marschik, Permanent Representative of Austria to the UN, Sepo Hachigonta, Director of Strategic Partnerships, National Research Foundation of South Africa; Nyovani Janet Madise, Director of Research for Sustainable Development Policies and Head of the Malawi office, African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP); and Adil Najam, President of WWF International, will participate as speakers.

The report places significant emphasis on the 2030 Agenda, its 17 Sustainable Development Goals, and the imperative to achieve sustainable wellbeing for all. As we approach the mid-term review point, the report offers a comprehensive perspective on the interconnected challenges and opportunities we face, aligning with the overarching theme of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, titled "Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity". This is especially relevant as we find ourselves at the beginning of a new phase of accelerated implementation of the 2030 Agenda, which is being called for in the draft political declaration to be approved at the session.

The report is organized into six parts, summarizing past and current IIASA research highlights and pointing toward future challenges and solutions. In the final chapter, the authors offer three critical policy messages to stimulate discussions about a post-2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development:

Suboptimization is suboptimal: Mainstream a systems-analysis approach into policymaking at all levels to ensure that broader, longer-term considerations are incorporated.

Enhance individual agency: Provide equal access to quality primary and secondary education for all, and in particular for women, as a means of promoting gender equality and empowerment.

Strengthen collective action and global governance: Harness global cooperation and representation to support the global commons.

With its international credibility, neutrality, and systems science approach, IIASA stands as a vital resource in addressing global challenges and fostering cooperation between diverse communities on matters of shared concern. As the institute enters its sixth decade, it remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing integrated systems science to ensure sustainable wellbeing for all.

This report is a testament to the unwavering dedication of IIASA to addressing global challenges for the past five decades and its commitment to continue to do so. It showcases our evolution from a cooperative scientific venture during the Cold War to a global institute at the forefront of solving humanity's most pressing issues today." Wolfgang Lutz, IIASA Interim Deputy Director General for Science

Shonali Pachauri, who leads the Transformative Institutional and Social Solutions Research Group at IIASA, highlighted the report's relevance to ongoing global efforts, saying, "IIASA's integrated systems approach and international credibility makes it an invaluable asset in addressing the interconnected global challenges we face today. From climate change to biodiversity loss and pandemics, IIASA's work is more critical now than ever."

Join us online on 13 September 2023, from 15:00-16:00 CEST for this momentous occasion, as we celebrate 50 years of IIASA's pioneering research and its commitment to ensuring sustainable wellbeing for all.
Recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of atrial fibrillation, and what they mean for patients, were considered by a group of around 75 international experts at a three-day meeting that began on Monday.

The 9th biannual Consensus Conference of the German Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET) and the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA), a branch of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), was held from 11 to 13 September in Munster, Germany.

Scientific Committee member and representative for AFNET, Professor Paulus Kirchhof (Hamburg, Germany), said: "Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disorder, with a prevalence of between 2% and 4% in adults. Despite improved treatment options, patients still suffer strokes, heart failure and premature death. There are various strategies to optimize care for patients with atrial fibrillation and we set out to bring these approaches together. Through a combination of lectures, discussions and break-out groups, AFNET/EHRA Consensus Conferences provide a forum to review the latest state-of-the-art findings on diagnosis and treatment, and discuss how recent advances can be translated into improved clinical care for this growing population."

In many patients, atrial fibrillation is asymptomatic and the first manifestation is a debilitating stroke, heart failure or a blackout. Early diagnosis is important to prevent these complications and the AFNET/EHRA joint conference began with a discussion of the clinical impact of new studies on screening for atrial fibrillation.

Once diagnosed, anticoagulants are prescribed to reduce the risk of stroke and the development of new anticoagulants was explored. This section also covered results from the NOAH-AFNET 6 trial, which were recently published simultaneously with a presentation at ESC Congress 2023. The NOAH-AFNET 6 trial assessed the benefits and risks of prescribing anticoagulants to patients with atrial high-rate episodes (AHRE), an area of previous clinical uncertainty. Resembling atrial fibrillation, AHRE are short and rare atrial arrhythmias that may occur in patients with implanted cardiac devices, such as pacemakers. New data showed that oral anticoagulation in patients with AHRE increases bleeding without preventing stroke and other cardiovascular events. The participants at this week's conference discussed the impact of these findings and those of other new trials, and provided additional clinical context.

Also on the agenda was a section on achieving better rhythm management - where attaining normal sinus rhythm is a priority - to improve patient outcomes, such as reducing symptoms, enhancing quality of life, and reducing the risk of stroke, heart failure, hospitalization and death from cardiovascular causes. The most appropriate time to switch from rhythm control with drugs to an atrial fibrillation ablation procedure and an implanted pacemaker was debated by the experts. Professor Kirchhof stated: "Since the presentation of the primary results of the EAST-AFNET 4 trial at the digital ESC Congress in 2020 and its simultaneous publication, more and more evidence supports a broader use of rhythm control therapy to reduce cardiovascular risk in patients with atrial fibrillation. This evidence was discussed in detail."

In addition to anticoagulation and rhythm management, several other factors should be considered in each patient with atrial fibrillation to ensure they receive optimized care, including whether they have other related conditions such as heart failure or kidney disease, their cardiovascular risk factors, including high blood pressure and an unhealthy lifestyle, and their genetic make-up. These considerations and how to achieve high-quality integrated care were discussed.

New technologies and their role in the future management of atrial fibrillation were the focus of another section of the proceedings. For instance, conventional ablation technology using thermal energy (e.g. heat/radiofrequency energy or cold/cryothermal energy) was compared with newer methods, such as pulsed field ablation using high energy electrical pulses.

During the conference, we jointly developed recommendations for better atrial fibrillation management and we will summarize these into a position paper for subsequent publication. We hope our results will also be integrated into the upcoming guidelines of the ESC next year." Professor Andreas Goette (Paderborn, Germany), a Scientific Committee member for AFNET

Concluding, the scientific organizer on behalf of EHRA, Professor Isabelle Van Gelder (Groningen, The Netherlands), said: "Atrial fibrillation is a fast-moving field. Bringing together experts from around the world to discuss the latest updates helps us to ensure that clinical practice keeps pace with investigational progress. We aim to optimize the current care pathway to help our patients live better and longer lives."
The risk of developing long COVID is significantly lower following an infection with the Omicron variant than after an infection with earlier coronavirus variants. This was the finding of a study by University Medicine Halle, which was published in the "International Journal of Infectious Diseases". The analysis looked at information gathered from 11,000 people about their infection history, vaccination status, and post-infection symptoms. The data provide strong evidence that the risk for long-term effects after a re-infection with the coronavirus is lower if the patient did not develop long COVID after the initial infection.

Long-term symptoms can develop after a coronavirus infection. This is commonly referred to as "long COVID" or "Post COVID-19 condition". The underlying risk factors are currently under intensive investigation.

We wanted to understand the connection between long COVID and different coronavirus variants, vaccinations, and past infections. Our study shows that the percentage of people who develop long COVID symptoms after an infection was lowest at the time when Omicron was prevalent." Sophie Diexer, first author of the new study and researcher at the Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biometry and Informatics at University Medicine Halle

The risk was found to be around three to four times lower after an Omicron infection than after an infection with the wild-type variant. Around half of all wild-type infected individuals reported persisting symptoms. It should be noted, however, that the majority of all infections occurred while Omicron was dominant. "In purely numerical terms, this means that most people developed long COVID following an Omicron infection," says Diexer.

The study also provides strong evidence of a protective effect once the patient has recovered from a coronavirus infection. "People who did not develop persistent symptoms after their initial infection had a significantly lower risk of developing long COVID following re-infection than people who were infected with the coronavirus for the first time. We were surprised by the scale of this effect," explains the researcher. However, the scientists were unable to demonstrate that, in the event of a vaccine breakthrough, the vaccine had any protective effect against long COVID. Due to the timing of the study, however, it was not possible to analyze the vaccine that specifically targeted the Omicron variant.

The study is based on the Germany-wide DigiHero project, which more than 48,000 people participated in until June 2022. "Studies have already looked at the relationship between the risk of long COVID and the different variants, but none has taken into account infection history," explains Professor Rafael Mikolajczyk, director of the Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biometry and Informatics at University Medicine Halle. "Of the respondents, approximately 11,000 reported at least one coronavirus infection that had occurred in the twelve weeks prior to when the data was collected for our study. Classification was based on the predominant variant at the time of the reported infection." Participants were questioned about 24 typical long COVID symptoms, with 2,822 individuals reporting that they had experienced such symptoms. Of these, 406 (14 per cent) reported experiencing severe fatigue, 237 (8 percent ) severe headaches, and 202 (7 per cent) severe shortness of breath. The intensity of the symptoms was not related to the coronavirus variant.

Follow-up surveys are currently being conducted to explore the persistence of long COVID symptoms. "In addition to possible long-term symptoms following a coronavirus infection, DigiHero is addressing a wide range of health issues and other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic," adds Mikolajczyk. On the basis of DigiHero, University Medicine Halle has also launched the Long COVID Registry in cooperation with Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg and the Rechts der Isar Hospital of the TUM School of Medicine. The registry records, for example, long COVID symptoms as well as their progression, severity and alleviation through specific therapies.

Background

DigiHero is a Germany-wide, population-based digital health research study (www.medizin.uni-halle.de/digihero). To date, over 90,000 people from 14 German states have registered. Participants are invited to complete online surveys that explore issues surrounding the development of chronic disease, healthy aging, health behaviors, and the coronavirus. Five clinics and four institutes from University Medicine Halle are taking part. Other project partners include Jena University Hospital, the Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology  BIPS, and the University of Bremen.
Cells are capable of translating mechanical changes into biological responses. This process is known as mechanotransduction and plays a fundamental role in the progression of solid tumors, such as breast cancer.

It is well-established that a common mechanical alteration in cancer progression involves tissue hardening. This stiffness is precisely what is detected during self-examinations or breast palpations for potential tumor detection. The stiffness of breast tissue triggers a chain reaction, inducing tension within cells and distorting their nuclei. Ultimately, this nuclear deformation activates genes responsible for controlling cell proliferation, which are closely associated with tumor growth.

A study published today in the journal Nature Materials demonstrates a cellular mechanism that could be pivotal in slowing the progression of breast tumors. The results of the study, led by Pere Roca-Cusachs, the principal investigator at the Institute of Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) and the University of Barcelona, indicate that laminin, a protein that provides structure and support to healthy breast tissues, hinders the mechanotransduction process in cells, thereby protecting the nucleus from deformation.

Our findings demonstrate that the presence of laminin mitigates the effects of stiffness, effectively shielding cells from tumor growth. We have showcased this mechanism in vitro, but we believe it holds potential for in vivo application, considering what we have observed in samples from breast cancer patients." Zanetta Kechagia, postdoctoral researcher at IBEC and first author of the study

"Through this mechanism, which we have shown can prevent the invasion of tumor cells, there is potential for the development of more sensitive diagnostic tools or even new therapies for breast cancer. However, further research will be needed to explore these possibilities, Pere Roca-Cusachs, IBEC researcher, Serra-Hunter associate professor at the University of Barcelona (UB) and leader of the study, explains.

It has already been demonstrated that an increase in tissue stiffness triggers mechanical responses within cells. The most common responses are associated with alterations in the cell's cytoskeleton, affecting its interaction with the surrounding tissue and facilitating migration. Additionally, this stiffness leads to the activation of the YAP protein, which enters the nucleus and initiates the expression of genes linked to cell proliferation.

To study the mechanotransduction process, the research team cultured breast tissue cells on gels with varying stiffness to mimic both healthy (soft) and malignant (stiff) tissues. They compared the behavior of the cells on gels coated with laminin to those on gels coated with collagen or fibronectin, which are other cell-supporting proteins that are overproduced in carcinogenic processes.

Thus, the researchers observed that the cells seeded on the laminin-rich gel had a very mild mechanical response to the stiffness of the substrate, compared to those seeded on the gels rich in collagen and fibronectin.

As a result, the researchers observed that the cells seeded on the laminin-rich gel exhibited a significantly less pronounced mechanical response to the substrate's stiffness when compared to those seeded on gels abundant in collagen and fibronectin.

This work is part of the European project MECHANO CONTROL, receiving funding exceeding 7 million euros within the framework of the European FET (Future and Emerging Technologies) projects.

"These results represent the culmination of over 6 years of work, during which we received support from the European Commission and collaborated with a team of international institutions, led by IBEC, to better understand how mechanical forces impact breast cancer," said Daniel Caudepon, IBEC project manager overseeing MECHANOCONTROL.

This research also includes significant contributions from other institutions participating in MECHANO-CONTROL, such as Pablo Saez and Marino Arroyo from Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya, and Thijs Koorman and Patrick Derksen from University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands.
The Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio) and the University College at The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) are officially launching the first known program in the United States to combine medicine and artificial intelligence. A Doctor of Medicine (MD) from UT Health San Antonio and a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) from UTSA will form a five-year MD/MS program enabling physicians trained in San Antonio to uniquely lead in the practical use of artificial intelligence to improve diagnostic and treatment outcomes.

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems that emulate aspects of human cognition. They can accomplish human-level tasks such as visual perception, speaking, language understanding and learning.

University College is the academic unit at UTSA that offers multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary undergraduate and graduate degrees.

This unique partnership promises to offer groundbreaking innovation that will lead to new therapies and treatments to improve health and quality of life. We're justifiably proud of the pioneering work being done at UTSA and UT Health San Antonio to educate and equip future medical practitioners on how to best harness the opportunities - and address the challenges - that AI will present for the field of health care in the years to come." James B. Milliken, UT System Chancellor

AI's presence can already be found in a variety of areas of the medical field including customized patient treatment plans, robotic surgeries and drug dosage. Additionally, UT Health San Antonio and UTSA have several research programs underway to improve health care diagnostics and treatment with the help of AI.

The World Economic Forum predicts that AI could enhance the patient experience by reducing wait times and improving efficiency in hospital health systems and by aggregating information from multiple sources to predict patient care. AI is also improving administrative online scheduling and appointment check-ins, reminder calls for follow-ups and digitized medical records.

"Our goal is to prepare our students for the next generation of health care advances by providing comprehensive training in applied artificial intelligence," said Ronald Rodriguez, MD, PhD, director of the MD/MS in AI program and professor of medical education at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. "Through a combined curriculum of medicine and AI, our graduates will be armed with innovative training as they become future leaders in research, education, academia, industry and health care administration. They will be shaping the future of health care for all."

The UTSA M.S. in Artificial Intelligence is a multidisciplinary degree program with three tracks: data analytics, computer science, and intelligent and autonomous systems. The latter is a concentration that trains students with theory and applications. In the AI program, students will have an opportunity to work with emerging technology in the areas of computer science, mathematics, statistics, and electrical and computer engineering. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to conduct research alongside nationally recognized professors in MATRIX: The UTSA AI Consortium for Human Well-being, a research-intensive environment focused on developing forward-looking, sustainable and comprehensive AI solutions that benefit society.

This first-of-its-kind MD/MS program has been several years in the making. Conversations about the innovative program began in 2019 with Ambika Mathur, dean of The UTSA Graduate School, and Robert R. Hromas, MD, dean of UT Health San Antonio's Long School of Medicine. Together, they worked through the pandemic with their teams to establish a degree pathway and curriculum that would prepare future physicians to lead in the workforce.

UTSA charged Dhireesha Kudithipudi with leading the development of the MS in AI curriculum in collaboration with three colleges. Over the course of one year, she closely collaborated with the faculty and chairs from three departments at UTSA and with UT Health San Antonio's faculty. This effort resulted in the creation of new courses in AI, which will provide students with a rigorous cross-disciplinary training experience and reduce entry barriers for non-traditional students.

"AI is transforming our world, and UTSA's approach to AI is grounded in transdisciplinary collaboration, underscoring our commitment to generating high-impact solutions to advance human well-being by engaging multiple and diverse audiences," said Mathur. "Through this innovative partnership with UT Health San Antonio, aspiring medical leaders will gain mastery in the emerging technologies that will shape the health care profession for generations to come."

In 2021, a pilot program was introduced to UT Health San Antonio medical students. Two students who applied for and were accepted into the MD/MS program for fall 2023 are projected to graduate in the spring of 2024. For these students, the combined degrees mean multiple possibilities in health care.

"I believe the future of health care will require a physician to navigate the technical and clinical sides of medicine," Aaron Fanous, a fourth-year medical student. "While in the program, the experience opened my mind to the many possibilities of bridging the two fields. I look forward to using my dual degree, so that I can contribute to finding solutions to tomorrow's medical challenges."

Eri Osta, is also a fourth-year medical student in the program. Osta said, "The courses were designed with enough flexibility for us to pick projects from any industry, and medical students were particularly encouraged to undertake projects with direct health care applications. My dual degree will help align a patient's medical needs with technology's potential. I am eager to play a role in shaping a more connected and efficient future for health care."

Medical students who are accepted to the dual degree program will be required to take a leave of absence from their medical education to complete two semesters of AI coursework at UTSA. Students will complete a total of 30 credit hours: nine credit hours in core courses including an internship, 15 credit hours in their degree concentration (Data Analytics, Computer Science, or Intelligent & Autonomous Systems) and six credit hours devoted to a capstone project.

How to apply

Prospective students who want to apply for the MD/MS program must first be admitted to The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine and satisfactorily complete one year of medical school before applying for dual enrollment at UTSA.

Current UT Health San Antonio third-year medical students who are in good academic standing are eligible to apply for the dual degree beginning spring of 2024. Students must complete a preliminary application through Long School of Medicine and indicate their interest in applying, along with acknowledgment of the impact on their educational training. Upon acceptance, students will begin attending the MSAI program at UTSA in the fall as a small cohort of their medical school class.

To learn more about the Long School of Medicine MD/MS in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) Dual Degree Program at UT Health San Antonio, please contact Stephanie Gutierrez, MEd, manager of the Long School of Medicine dual degree program, at 210-567-0183 or visit lsom.uthscsa.edu/mdmsai.

To learn more about UTSA's MS program in Artificial Intelligence, please contact Reyna Tostado, MEd, program coordinator in UTSA's University College ([email protected]) or visit UTSA Admissions.
The Platte County Sheriffs Office recently participated in the Nebraska Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Mobilization. The Sheriffs Office was one of many law enforcement agencies across the state that participated in this enforcement effort.

This campaign was conducted from Aug. 16 through Sept. 4. Deputies worked additional hours during weekends, evenings, and special events, to make travel safer for all motorists in the area. The primary focus was on alcohol-impaired drivers, as well as regular traffic enforcement.

During this period, the Sheriffs Office issued a total of 117 citations for various traffic violations. The Sheriffs Office also made 30 arrests for violations such as driving under the influence, no drivers license, driving under suspension, and driving under revocation.

According to a spokesperson from the Sheriffs Office, We would like to think our enforcement efforts and high visibility kept the roads in the county safer over the holiday period.

The Sheriffs Office plans to continue to participate in such enforcement efforts throughout the year, with the primary goal always being safe roadways for those traveling the streets and highways here in Platte County.

The Nebraska Office of Highway Safety provided a grant which funded this enforcement effort.
After having started production of iPhone 15 in India, Apple will produce a higher model of the series, iPhone 15 Plus, in the country in the next quarter. The mobile phones will be made at Foxconns manufacturing plant near Chennai, according to an Economic Times report.

The Foxconn plant has also started preparations to produce iPhone 15 Plus, according to the ET report quoting two industry executives aware of the plans. It said the company will import the iPhone Plus model until its production starts.

Apple is not looking to produce the iPhone Pro series in India, the report said.

Apple has already started producing the iPhone 15 at the Foxconn plant. This will allow the tech giant to sell a made-in-India iPhone right from the launch stage.

Till now, iPhones in India used to be imported for the first few months of launch before local production started in the country. This year, the company has started producing iPhone 15 from Day 1.

Apple on Tuesday, September 12, launched the iPhone 15 series with slightly improved camera resolutions, a faster chip, and higher peak brightness, among other updates. Pro models will have a lighter titanium body.

Apple started assembling iPhones in India in 2017 with its budget iPhone SE through Wistrons facility in Karnataka. Currently, there are three contract manufacturers of iPhones in India  Foxconn, Wistron and Pegatron. They manufacture iPhone 13, 14 and 14 Plus models in the country.

Will Local Manufacturing Bring Down iPhone 15 Prices?

Though iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will be assembled in India, industry executives say the prices may not be affected significantly. Assembling iPhone 15 in India may not bring down its prices majorly as the companys manufacturers (Foxconn, Wistron and Pegatron) pay high import duties to bring in components.

The basic customs duty is 20 per cent and then there is a surcharge of 2.5 per cent. Over and above that, an iPhone attracts 18 per cent GST. The final price also includes distribution costs and retailers margins.

iPhone 15 has been launched in India at Rs 79,900, iPhone 15 Plus at Rs 89,900, and iPhone 15 Pro at Rs 1,34,900 for 128 GB base variants. iPhone 15 Pro Max 256 GB has been launched at Rs 1,59,900.
RR Kabel IPO Day 2 Update: The initial public offering (IPO) of wires and cables manufacturer RR Kabel Ltd, which opened for public subscription on Wednesday, has been subscribed 0.59 times on the second day of subscription on Thursday, receiving bids for 78,90,848 shares against 1,33,17,737 shares on offer.

Update: RR Kabel IPO Day 3: Check GMP on Day 3, Latest Subscription Status

As of 1700 HRS on September 14, 2023, the non-institutional investor quota was subscribed 0.74 times, while the category for retail individual investors (RIIs) got 0.43 times subscription and qualified institutional buyers (QIBs) 0.77 times.

The IPO was subscribed 25 per cent on the first day of bidding on Wednesday. The RR Kabel IPO received bids for 32,78,072 shares against 1,33,17,737 shares on offer, according to NSE data.

The price range for the RR Kabel IPO is Rs 983-1,035 per share. At the upper end of the price band, the issue will fetch up to Rs 1,964 crore. On Tuesday, TPG-backed RR Kabel Ltd said it has mobilised Rs 585.62 crore from anchor investors.

The category for Retail Individual Investors (RIIs) was subscribed 36 per cent and the portion for non-institutional investors received 29 per cent subscription. The RR Kabel IPO will close on Friday, September 15.

RR Kabel IPO GMP

According to market observers, RR Kabel is currently trading Rs 93 higher in the grey market. The Rs 93 grey market premium or GMP is about 8.99 per cent higher than its upper issue price of Rs 1,035 per share. This means the grey market is expecting a 8.99 per cent listing gain from the public issue.

Grey market premium indicates investors readiness to pay more than the issue price.

About RR Kabel IPO

The IPO has a fresh issue of up to Rs 180 crore and an offer for sale of up to 1,72,36,808 equity shares.

The IPO allotment will take place on September 21. It will be listed on BSE and NSE on September 26.

The company runs five manufacturing units  one each cable and wire units in Waghodia in Gujarat and in Silvassa in the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and a commercial lightings plant in Bengaluru and one each fast moving electrical goods (FMEG) units in Roorkee in Uttarakhand and Gagret in Himachal Pradesh. As much as 88 per cent of its revenue comes from cables and wires.

The company proposes to utilise Rs 136 crore of the net proceeds from the fresh issue to pare down debt.

RR Kabel, a part of the RR Global Group, had a net profit of Rs 214 crore on a revenue of Rs 4,386 crore in FY22.

Axis Capital, Citigroup Global Markets India, HSBC Securities and Capital Markets (India) and JM Financial are the managers to the offer.

Giving Subscribe recommendation, brokerage LKP Securities in a note said, RR Kabel is well-positioned to capture a significant share of growth due to their existing market share, their brand recognition, diversified product portfolio, ability to innovate, scale of operations, sizeable and certified manufacturing facilities and infrastructure, quality and safety of their products and the reach of their distribution network.
On Wednesday, an estimated 1.30 lakh teachers from more than 56,000 primary and upper primary schools in Odisha went on strike in protest of the states contractual appointment system, grade pay hikes from from Rs 2,200 to Rs 4,200, and the reinstatement of the old pension system. Over 40 lakh children of state-run schools have been kept away from their schools as a result of the teachers indefinite strike, which has lasted six days straight.

Several schools and their students have suffered significantly as a result of the protest. The majority of schools were shut, although one or two teachers led classes in others.

Despite the Odisha governments request that they call off their strike, the teachers grouped under the banner of the All Utkal Primary Teachers Federation (AUPTF) started a protest on September 8 in order to get their demands met. Beginning on September 14, the teachers concurred to go on mass leave.

According to a PTI report, the aggrieved teachers took a collective leave of absence and protested outside the block education officers offices after the government did little to address their requests

A teacher leader expressed concerns and stated that instead of investigating the issues raised, the government has formed a subcommittee when an inter-ministerial panel has already been formed. He further claimed that the subcommittee was constituted solely to slow down the process. Teachers demands were supported by BJP and Congress leaders, who also criticised the state administration for failing to take action on their concerns.

The administration has not addressed the teachers grievances despite a period of six days. The whole education system in Odisha has essentially crumbled due to the state governments lethargy, state BJP spokesman Anil Biswal told PTI. Arabinda Dhali, a BJD MLA, on the other hand, asserted that the state administration will unquestionably consider their sincere requests.

 with PTI inputs
The registration window for the Karnataka National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS 2023) for Class 8 students has been opened by the Karnataka School Quality Assessment and Accreditation Council (KSQAAC). On the official website, kseeb.karnataka.gov.in, school heads and principals will have till October 4 to complete the applications for students who meet the criteria for the Karnataka NMMS 2023 scholarship. Students can take the NMMS 2023 test in Kannada, English, Urdu, Marathi, or Telugu.

The NMMS Exam 2023-2024 will take place on December 17. The paper 1 which is a Mental Ability Test (MAT) will be held from 10:30 AM to 12 PM., and paper 2 which is the Academic Aptitude Test (AAT) will be held from 2 PM to 3:30 PM.

Karnataka NMMS 2023: Eligibility Criteria

The NMMS test is offered to eligible candidates enrolled in class 7 in government, aided, and local body schools. Candidates seeking the scholarship must have received at least 55 per cent or equivalent marks in Class 7. To be eligible for the NMMS scholarships, the candidates familys income must not exceed Rs 3.5 lakh.

For continued scholarship in higher secondary education, students must pass the Class 10 board test with at least 60 per cent of the marks and Class 11 on the first try with a minimum of 55 per cent marks. There will be a 5% relaxation in place for candidates who fall under the SC or ST category.

The NMMS test is not offered to students from Kendriya Vidyalayas, Sainik schools, or other residential institutions (including government-aided ones).

Karnataka NMMS 2023: Steps to apply

Step 1: Go to kseeb.karnataka.gov.in/NTSENMMS, the official website for the Karnataka NMMS 2023

Step 2: Select the Login link on the webpage.

Step 3: Generate a password by entering the default username and password.

Step 4: Enter your registration number and password to access your account.

Step 5: Complete the necessary fields, upload your passport-size photo, and save the page.

Step 6: Take a printout of the Karnataka NMMS application form and the HOIs certificate format.

Step 6: Finally, click the Finalise application button.

Karnataka NMMS 2023: Selection process

The NMMS test is divided into two papers. Scheduled caste and scheduled tribe students must receive at least 32 per cent average marks on both tests, whereas general and other backward class students must receive a minimum of 40 per cent average marks on the two tests. Based on the current reservation and eligibility criterion determined by rank, DESERT will choose the students from among those belonging to various castes and categories.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will touch down at Bina in Madhya Pradesh on Thursday, making it his 34th trip to the state marketed as Hindustan ka dil. Since 2013, he has visited Madhya Pradesh 33 times and, though he will lay foundation stones for development projects, BJP sources indicated that he has a special bond with the poll-bound state. No wonder then that the BJP has decided to go with his face alone in the upcoming assembly election, banking on his approval ratings and the bond he shares with the people of Madhya Pradesh.

Not so long ago, while releasing the BJPs report card in Madhya Pradesh, union home minister Amit Shahs speech was peppered with numbers articulating how much the prime minister has given to the people of Madhya Pradesh.

6 trips to MP in 2023 alone

Out of his 33 trips to Madhya Pradesh, the prime minister directly took part in events at big cities like Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain and Jabalpur as well as relatively smaller places like Reeva, Ratlam, Mandsaur and Khandwa. He has also visited Chindwara, which is known to be the home turf of Kamal Nath, the chief ministerial face of the Congress.

State BJP leaders said Prime Minister Modi has visited Ujjain, Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Reeva and Gwalior multiple times. As a prime minister, this year alone, he has visited MP at least six times and has gifted the state in abundance each time, they said.

Lets take a look at his 2023 trips to Madhya Pradesh:

August 12: The PM visited Sagar, where he laid the foundation stone of the Sant Ravidas temple, as well as for road projects worth Rs 1,580 crore and also inaugurated rail projects.

July 1: The PM visited Shahdol where he inaugurated the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission. He also distributed Ayushman Bharat cards among tribals and interacted with self-help groups.

June 27: This time it was Bhopals turn, where PM Modi flagged off two new Vande Bharat trains.

April 24: Modi visited Reeva to inaugurate eGramSwaraj-GEM portal and also distributed 35 lakh SVAMITVA cards, which will bring financial stability to rural residents by enabling them to use their property as an asset for taking loans and other benefits. On the same day, he also distributed keys to four lakh people for homes built under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.

April 1: This time, Modi launched the Bhopal-Delhi Vande Bharat train from the state capital.

January 9: The PM visited Indore to issue postal ballots and take part in the Pravasi Bharat Day.

What does Modis 34th trip look like?

This will be Modis seventh trip to the poll-bound state this year alone and he is expected to announce development projects worth more than Rs 50,000 crore. The PM will lay the foundation stone of a petrochemical complex at Bina refinery; power and renewable energy manufacturing zone in Narmadapuram; and mega industrial park in Ratlam.

During the programme, the prime minister will also lay the foundation stone of 10 projects  power and renewable energy manufacturing zone in Narmadapuram district; two IT parks in Indore; a mega industrial park in Ratlam; and six new industrial areas across Madhya Pradesh, said a press release from the prime ministers office.

With the aim of promoting balanced regional development and uniform employment opportunities in Madhya Pradesh, six new industrial areas will also be developed at Shajapur, Guna, Mauganj, Agar Malwa, Narmadapuram and Maksi.
The Jana Sena Party (JSP) chief Pawan Kalyan announced on Thursday that his party and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) will fight the upcoming elections together. He also said that he firmly believes that the BJP will also join the two parties in the polls.

The JSP Chief visited the TDP Chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu, who is detained for his alleged role in a multi-crore skill development corporation scam, along with the TDP leaders Nara Lokesh and Nandamuri Balakrishna at Rajamahendravaram Central Prison in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday.

Post his visit, he addressed the media and said that he has been witnessing anarchy rule in the state for the past four-half years. He also stated that as a part of that anarchy rule, the former chief minister Chandrababu was framed in illegal cases and was sent to remand.

Assembly elections in the state are due next year.

The JSP chief said that he came to Rajamahendravaram to extend his solidarity with the TDP chief.

Earlier I disputed with Chandrababu and contested in the elections separately. I took the decision on behalf of the JSP for the well-being of the state and in order to strengthen the national integrity. I openly said that the state was divided without proper procedure when I found the JSP, Pawan Kalyan said. He further added that the supporters of the current Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Jagan Mohan Reddy will only have a time of six months and if they are expecting the war he will declare that against them.

He further alleged that Chief Minister Jagans unruly behaviour led him to stand beside the TDP leaders Lokesh and Balakrishna. The injustice meted to Chandrababu may happen to everyone in the state tomorrow and cases were filed against JSP leaders after they protested in Visakhapatnam. I am strongly condemning the arrest of Chandrababu, Kalyan said. He also added that it is difficult to stop the atrocities of the ruling YSRCP if the JSP and TDP contest separately in the elections and it will continue for decades together. Thats why I took the decision that the JSP will fight the next elections along with the TDP, for the future of Andhra Pradesh, he said.

Regarding the seat sharing and preparation of the cadres of JSP and TDP for the elections, he said that he would share the plan later. The YSCP leaders have no right to ask the JSP to contest in the elections alone. Am I asking Jagan to contest from Amalapuram instead of Pulivendula? The ruling party leaders celebrated the arrest of Chandrababu. It is not wise to celebrate ones death or ones arrest. I feel sad after hearing the news of the sudden demise of the then chief minister YS Rajasekhar Reddy (Jagan Reddys father), he said.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is likely to release its second list for Madhya Pradesh Assembly Elections soon. According to sources, the second list may contain names of all the seats that the saffron camp lost in the last assembly elections.

The reports came after the BJPs Central Election Committee held a high-level meeting on Wednesday to decide on a roadmap for the seats that the BJP failed to win in the last assembly elections. The second list is likely to have around 35-40 seats.

Earlier on Monday, a high-level meeting of top brass was held in Delhi. It was attended by BJP President JP Nadda, Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, BJP General Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya, State BJP President VD Sharma, and State Organization Secretary Hitanand Sharma.

For the unversed, the party released its first list of candidates for the Madhya Pradesh Assembly Elections on August 17.

The CEC met last month and named candidates for 39 seats for the polls in Madhya Pradesh and 21 for Chhattisgarh. These were for the seats where the BJP does not have incumbent MLAs.

Assembly polls are due in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Telangana and Mizoram in November-December, the last round of state elections before the Lok Sabha contest in 2024.

The BJP is in power in Madhya Pradesh while the Congress is in power in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. The BRS is in power in Telangana while the Mizo National Front runs the government in Mizoram.
Aly Goni and Jasmine Bhasin continue to mesmerize fans with their adorable photos. Their love story, which blossomed during their stint on Bigg Boss 14, has remained strong since. The duo, affectionately known as Jasly by their dedicated fan base, often shares sweet moments on social media. Now, Aly has shared another cute photo with Jasmin Bhasin, leaving fans swooning over their chemistry. On Instagram, Aly Goni dropped a candid photo of himself with Jasmine Bhasin. In the picture, Jasmine gazes lovingly at Aly and in love, while Aly smiles warmly at the camera. The couple is elegantly dressed in traditional attire, radiating charm and grace. Alys caption for the photo simply read, Saathi. Jasmine also responded with a heart emoticon.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by (@alygoni)

Fans flooded the comment section with an outpouring of love and affection for the couple. One user wrote, Awesome jodi..Hamesha sath rehna aur get married, another user wrote, The way she looks at him. A fan comment read, Best Jodi. Aly you both together look too cute. Waiting for your Nikah, wrote another.

Earlier, Aly Goni treated fans to a glimpse of their Thailand vacation through a series of pictures. In the first photo, the couple showcased their playful side, sticking their tongues out as they enjoyed a meal at a restaurant. Aly sported a black tee, complemented by a navy blue cap and stylish black-rimmed sunglasses. On the other hand, Jasmin rocked an oversized red T-shirt, her hair neatly tied in a ponytail. In another photo, Aly can be seen taking a mirror selfie while donning a bright yellow T-shirt and off-white joggers.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by (@alygoni)

Previously, in an interview with Pinkvilla, Aly Goni candidly discussed his enduring bond with Jasmine Bhasin. Nothing has changed we are the same as we were earlier. There is no unnecessary possessiveness or questions from both sides. It is the same and the best. Because I think be it friendship, relationship or any other equation, you have to save it yourself.

On the professional front, Jasmine Bhasin is all set to grace the silver screen in Amar Hundals action drama film Warning 2 alongside Gippy Grewal and Raj Singh Jhinjar. She will be also seen in a cameo role in director Paman Kumar Biswass upcoming biography drama Sneham. Meanwhile, Aly Goni was last seen with Jasmine Bhasin in a music video titled Saawan Aa Gaya and Allah De Bandeya.

The couple also has a YouTube vlog under their fan-given name Jasly, where they share updates about their personal lives.
Manipur has got close to 50 more additional companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) that were relieved from Amarnath Yatra duties and moved to the trouble-torn state. While close to 20 have reached Manipur, others are scheduled to get there soon. Top sources confirmed to News18 that these additional paramilitary forces were likely to relieve Army troops from various areas as they were deployed and shifted in a short time from sensitive parts.

Assam Rifles troops may also also be relieved from a few places but no decision has been taken on this, said officials.

According to sources, it was discussed that as the atmosphere is better than a few weeks ago and the state government has also got additional CAPF companies, they can take over from the Army troops that were moved from the borders to handle the situation in Manipur.

When asked about the areas from where the Army will move out, a top official aware of the development said this is yet to be finalised as the movement will have to be discussed with all the stakeholders.

In a meeting with all the forces and top government functionaries, it was discussed that CAPF can now relieve the Army from a few areas where troops were deployed for controlling the situation in the state. The plan would be to have CAPF troops shifted from Anantnag to Manipur to replace the Army. The Army has bigger duties for which officials may want a replacement, a senior official who attended the meeting told News18.

Last week, out of 325 companies deployed in J&K for the Amarnath Yatra duties, 225 were de-inducted by the union home ministry for further deployment. Out of these 225, a few companies were sent to Manipur to assist the local police in maintaining the law and order situation in the state.

Sources said that close to 38 companies of CRPF will be reaching Manipur and 10 companies have already arrived. Similarly, BSF and ITBP companies are also reaching Manipur to handle the law and order situation and assist the local police.
As many as 926 government primary schools in Gujarat are functioning with just one teacher, the state Assembly was informed on Thursday.

The government assured the House that vacant posts in state-run primary schools will be filled at the earliest.

As per the data shared in the House by the state government, 106 schools in Mahisagar district have just one teach each, while the figure is 105 schools in Kutch, 84 in Tapi, 46 in Devbhumi Dwarka, 45 in Narmada and 41 in Kheda district.

Districts where the situation is better include Botad, where only two schools are functioning with one teacher each, followed by Morbi (three schools), Bhavnagar and Gir Somnath (five schools each), Gandhinagar (six) and Jamnagar (eight).

State education minister Kuber Dindor said schools were functioning with only one teacher because posts were lying vacant due to different reasons such as retirement, death, transfer and voluntary retirement.

Another set of information shared by Dindor in the Assembly revealed that 7,906 classrooms are in a dilapidated condition in various granted and government-run schools across the state.

Of these, 6,539 are in government-run primary schools, 574 in granted secondary and higher secondary schools and 413 in granted secondary schools.
A former Chadron State College student is asking for a rehearing following a split-decision reversal of a federal jury's $300,000 award in a civil case where she accused college officials of not doing enough to protect her after she reported being raped.

Jane Doe's attorney said the college should have banned the man who attacked her in 2016 from campus instead of just ordering him not to have contact with her.

She felt unsafe on campus because of the chance of running into her attacker and had to complete her degree through online classes after the two assaults in 2016.

The woman graduated from college that December.

The next year, she sued the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges System.

At trial, NSCS argued the way the situation had been handled by campus officials was reasonable. Besides ordering the man not to have contact with the woman, they also had ordered him to complete counseling and put him on behavioral probation until he graduated.

They also offered the woman a campus escort, which she turned down not wanting to draw attention to herself.

The jury ruled in the woman's favor in December 2021. And the Board of Trustees appealed, saying, among other things, that they had not been deliberately indifferent after Doe reported being sexually assaulted on campus twice.

Nineteen civil rights and survivor advocacy organizations filed friend-of-the-court briefs on her behalf.

In a decision in August, Eighth Circuit Judge Ralph R. Erickson wrote for the majority of the three-judge panel that heard the appeal, saying: "While it is a rare case that reversal is warranted after giving appropriate deference to a jurys verdict, this is such a case."

Erickson, of North Dakota, said it was understandable that Doe wanted the other student removed from campus, or to suffer more severe consequences, however, for a claim to go to a jury, she would have had to show Chadron "acted in a clearly unreasonable manner, which is not sustainable on the record."

He said the case should have been dismissed prior to trial.

In a dissent, Eighth Circuit Judge Jane Kelly, of Iowa, said: "Doe presented evidence that after she reported the second sexual assault to the college, the school responded with a safety plan that objectively made her vulnerable to additional harassment from (the accused). This is sufficient."

The college banned him from the residence hall where Doe worked, but failed to notify the dormitory for five days. And, he was allowed to continue to live in an adjoining hall with a shared common area, where at least once he encountered Doe.

Even after the male student admitted policy violations, the college's vice president did not conduct a risk assessment.

"Rather, (Jon) Hansen merely used his own 'judgment' to place (the male student) on 'behavioral probation'  a status undefined by the college  and to impose modest sanctions, such as reading a book, journaling, and completing a consent course," Kelly said.

His weekly counseling sessions were at the same campus counseling center where Doe had sessions.

Kelly said a reasonable jury could find the college's actions weren't reasonably calculated to end the harassment and were clearly unreasonable in light of the sexual assaults that Doe suffered on campus.

Doe's attorney, Maren Chaloupka, since has filed a motion for rehearing by the three-judge panel or the entire Eighth Circuit.

Photos: Nebraska volleyball hosts Creighton
A man from Bihars Buxur district was awarded a life term for raping his minor daughters for at least 10 years. In the uncanny incident that has left social scientists alarmed, the father raped his daughters on the advice of a tantrik so that he could have a son.

According to a report published in Times of India, the POCSO court on September 12 also awarded life term to the tantrik while handing down a 20-year prison sentence to the mother and aunt of the girls for instigated the men to rape them.

The ToI report stated that the incident came to light after the girls managed to escape from their home and reach a police station, where they filed a formal complaint against their family members. Social scientists quoted in the report expressed their shock and said illiteracy was the root cause behind such incidents.

They further said this was not a case of gender discrimination alone but the outcome of an existing patriarchal system, which will go on until challenged by women themselves.

Police said the father had consulted the tantrik in 2012 as he had two daughters and longed for a son. The tantrik told him to rape his own daughters. Soon, a boy was born in the family but the tantrik told the man that there was a threat to his sons life and he should keep raping the girls to save him from any risk. Later, the tantrik also started raping the girls, police added.

The girls fled their home in May last year and managed to file a police complaint, following which a speedy investigation and trial resulted in the conviction of the accused in the case.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday issued a line whip to all party MPs of Lok Sabha to be present in the House from September 18 to 22 to discuss very important legislative business and support the governments stand.

The government has also convened a meeting of the floor leaders of all political parties on September 17, a day before the start of the five-day session.

The session is likely to see the proceedings of Parliament moving from the old building to the new Parliament building.

On August 31, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi had announced a special session of Parliament for five days from September 18 but did not spell out any specific agenda for it.

Amid Amrit Kaal, looking forward to having fruitful discussions and debate in Parliament, Joshi had posted on X.
American pharma major Eli Lilly has decided to withdraw insulin Glargine, sold under the brand name of Basaglar KwikPen, from the Indian market.

Basaglar Kwikpen is a long-acting, once-daily insulin designed for the management of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes in adults and children. It provides consistent insulin presence in the body over the course of a day, aiding in the regulation of blood sugar levels.

According to a public notice published by Eli Lilly in newspapers on August 30, the company wants to discontinue and stop the import and marketing of the said medicine after March 5, 2024.

While Eli Lilly is the maker of this insulin injection, the product is marketed in India by pharmaceutical giant Cipla.

US-based Eli Lilly has described the insulin withdrawal as a carefully taken business decision. After careful consideration, Lilly India has decided to discontinue Basaglar KwikPen (insulin Glargine) to streamline our current and future product portfolio in the country, a company spokesperson told News18 in an email.

According to the public notice issued by Eli Lilly, after the discontinuation of the medicine, the same may not be available in the market.

Therefore, patients using such medicines may consult their doctor for prescribing alternate medicines. All the doctors and medical personnel may also make note of this.

Low Demand, High Competition

However, according to a company source and industry experts, the product has been facing tough competition in the Indian market along with the price ceiling imposed by the National Pharmaceuticals Pricing Authority (NPPA), making the product financially unviable.

The NPPA has fixed the ceiling price of Rs 244.13 per millilitre (ml) for insulin Glargine 100IU per ml pens.

Glargine  the first long-acting insulin analogue to be used in clinical practice  initially captured the market when launched by Eli Lilly and Cipla in early 2019. But, over time, numerous pharmaceutical companies such as Biocon, Sanofi, Mankind Pharma, Wockhardt, Lupin, and Eris Lifesciences have started selling the same formulation, dividing the significant market share.

The sales volume of the product was low due to high competition, a company source said, requesting anonymity.

Focussed on Bringing Innovative Meds to India: Eli Lilly

The company spokesperson told News18 that Basaglar insulin will continue to be available to hospitals, health systems and patients in the more commonly used formulation of 3 ml cartridges.

Asked if the company plans to launch more products to cater to the growing demand for anti-diabetic drugs in India, the spokesperson said: We will continue to focus on bringing Lillys innovative medicines to India in our ongoing endeavour to make life better for people.

Eli Lilly introduced the worlds first commercial insulin and has been a global leader in diabetes care. The company said that it continues to offer a broad insulin and incretin portfolio for people living with diabetes in India.
Three Indian Army personnel, including a Colonel and a Major, and a Deputy Superintendent of the J&K Police were killed during a gunfight with terrorists in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. Their deaths came less than 24 hours after another Indian Army jawan and an Army dog named Kent were gunned in Rajouri.

The latest casualties are similar to the ones suffered by the Indian Army in Rajouri, Poonch and south Kashmir in the last one year. In April this year, five personnel were killed when terrorists set fire to a truck. In May, the Army suffered five more casualties in the same area.

Officials in the security apparatus see a distinct pattern in the way terrorists are operating on both sides of the Pir Panjal, inflicting casualties.

Small Operational Groups

A group of 5-7 terrorists have been active in Rajouri and Poonch since 2021. In October that year, nine Indian army men lost their lives in the Bhatta Durian forest of Rajouri and Poonch. It set alarm bells ringing on Rajouri-Poonch being back on the radar of Pakistan-based terror group after a lull. Analysis and intelligence gathering since then has suggested that the group carries out operations in sub-groups of two to three. A local terrorist acts as a guide and is well-versed with the topography of the area. In the encounter at Rajouris Narla on Tuesday and Wednesday, joint forces killed two Pakistani terrorists who were described as hardcore by the officials on ground.

In the Anantnag encounter, Uzair Khan, a local resident who went missing in 2022, is suspected to be guiding at least two foreign terrorists. The involvement of a terrorist from Tral is also suspected.

No Interaction With Villagers

Earlier, foreign terrorists would take shelter in villages, but now they are hiding in caves and caverns located in the Pir Panjal mountains or forest hideouts. There is hardly any interaction with villagers. Earlier, police or Army could get a tip-off from the villagers if a foreigner came to live with them. Now, one local contact helps them with provisions, a senior officer dealing with operations told News18.

While recoveries from terrorists killed in encounters shows they carry dry food and medicines with Pakistani markings, officers say day to day essentials like vegetables and grains are brought by the local contact. In the Poonch hideout, vegetable peels and locally available polythene bags were found.

Mobile Silence

The terrorist group in Pir Panjal has also posed a tech challenge for the security grid. No mobile phones or locally procured SIM cards have been used by the group, making interception difficult. Some parts in the Indian side of the LoC catch signals from Pakistani mobile towers. These locations have been identified and steps are being taken, a paramilitary officer working in the area told News18.

But a bigger challenge is the use of technology like YSMS (Yeoyou Stock Market System used with iCom radio set), that first surfaced after the Pulwama attack in February 2019, wherein very high-frequency and smartphones connected with radio sets are used to communicate. Instructions via voice notes from handlers in Pakistan is also part of the modus operandi.

Money Paid for Services

In another departure from the past, foreign terrorists are now paying the local contact for the provisions and services rendered, officers said. Earlier, the dealing was at gunpoint. Threat was used to force locals to provide them with food and shelter. Now, the local contact is paid handsomely so they also dont inform the security grid, an intelligence agency official told News18. A J&K police officer said Gujjars living in the villages, who were earlier the first to inform local police, are now not forthcoming with information.

Drug Money

Police suspect that money made by selling drugs is being used to pay off the locals. A number of drug consignments dropped by drones have been caught by the BSF along Punjab and Jammu borders. Police suspect that many consignments may have gone undetected. The local contact who collects the consignment is given part share of the drugs. In return, his services are enlisted to help the foreign terrorists, an officer said.

Guerrilla Warfare

One of the biggest changes in tactics is guerrilla warfare being used by terrorists. While previous encounters were in residential areas or orchards of Kashmir, but the battlegrounds in the last few months have been the heavily forested areas of Pir Panjal. A change of tactics seems to be the need of the hour where the Indian forces also attack at night or without revealing themselves, a senior operational commander said.

While such tactics have been deployed by paramilitary forces in anti-Naxal warfare, in Jammu and Kashmir the encounters have largely been Army, CRPF, Jammu and Kashmir Police jointly carrying out operations. This means larger group of personnel encircling the terrorists. In hilly forests, where the enemy often occupies the heights, the strategy, officers said, may need a relook.
The Bangladesh strain has apparently infected five people so far in Kerala. The latest case was reported in Kozhikode district when a healthcare worker tested positive. The monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of the infected people are expected to be provided by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Thursday.

The monoclonal antibody is the only available anti-viral treatment for Nipah virus infection, though it has not been clinically proven yet.

Kerala health minister Veena George on Wednesday said that the fifth case of Nipah virus is of a 24 year-old health worker who is employed at a private hospital in Kozhikode.

In the wake of the outbreak in this north Kerala district, a holiday has been declared for all educational institutions on Thursday and Friday.

The holiday was declared by Kozhikode District Collector A Geetha who in a Facebook post said educational institutions can arrange online classes on the two days for students. However, there will be no change in university exams schedule, she added.

History of the Infected People & Contact Tracing

 A report in The Hindu quoted official sources as saying that 371 contacts of the first victim, a 47-year-old man from Maruthonkara in Kozhikode, are under medical surveillance.

 The report further stated that 60 contacts of the mans nine-year-old son, who is undergoing treatment at a private hospital in the city, too have been traced.

George informed the boy is on ventilator support at a hospital in Kozhikode, and his condition remains critical. We have ordered the monoclonal antibody with the ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) and it would be brought to Kozhikode soon. The imported medicine is already available with the ICMR, she said.

 The Hindu report further stated that one of the mans brothers-in-law, a 24-year-old man, has 77 contacts.

 Another person who was on his contact list and has tested positive is the health worker who was found to be infected on Wednesday.

 Another health worker on the list tested negative for the virus, the report stated.

 The report further stated that the contact list of the second victim, a 40-year-old man from Ayancheri, has 281 persons. The condition of the infected persons are reported to be stable. A majority of those on the contact list are under isolation at their homes.

What is Nipah Virus and its Bangladesh Strain?

 Nipah virus has caused outbreaks of human disease with high mortality rates in Malaysia, Singapore, India and Bangladesh.

 Nipah virus (NiV) is a bat-borne paramyxovirus. It mainly has two divergent strains  NiV-Malaysia and NiV-Bangladesh.

 According to Americas National Library of Medicines, the Bangladesh strain of Nipah Virus emerged in 2001 in the South Asian country, and subsequent outbreaks of disease have occurred almost annually.

 Since 2001, more than 200 cases in humans have been identified in Bangladesh. The overall case-fatality rate is more than 70%.

 In contrast to the rare instances of human-to-human transmission of NiV-Malaysia, human-to-human transmission of NiV-Bangladesh is a major pathway for human infection.

 NiV-Malaysia emerged in 1998 during an outbreak of infectious respiratory and neurologic disease in commercially farmed pigs, presumably after virus spillover from Malaysian flying foxes.

 According to National Library of Medicines, pigs were the source of infection for farm and abattoir workers, resulting in a widespread outbreak of severe febrile encephalitic disease among humans.

 More than 250 cases were reported in Malaysia and Singapore, and the case-fatality rate approached 40%. No cases of human-to-human transmission were reported during the outbreak.

 However, rare instances of human-to-human transmission have been suggested by asymptomatic seroconversion against NiV-Malaysia in a healthcare worker, which was recognized after the outbreak, and by a recently reported case of late-onset NiV encephalitis attributed to transmission from infected family members.

Nipah virus infection in humans is associated with a higher death rate in Bangladesh than in Malaysia. Additionally, Nipah virus spreads from person to person in Bangladesh but not in Malaysia.

 Veena George too said the Bangladesh variant spreads from human to human and has a high mortality rate, though it is less infectious.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK SYMPTOMS OF NIPAH VIRUS

Prone to Nipah Virus, How is Kerala Containing It?

 Kerala health minister said that 76 people are in the high-risk contact category. However, the condition of all these people remain stable.

 She said 13 persons who have mild symptoms are now being monitored in the hospital, and only the child is in the Intensive Care Unit.

 Testing of the samples is done regularly in the labs at Kozhikode Medical College and Thonnakkal virology lab, she said, adding the samples of those with intense symptoms will be sent to National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune.

 Veena George said that the district collector has been authorised to issue orders directing people to avoid mass gatherings in Kozhikode till September 24. The district collector can decide whether to issue such a direction and the duration as per her analysis of the situation, George said.

 Volunteer teams will be set up in the containment zones with the help of the people in the area, and these persons will be selected by the panchayats.

 None of the 156 health workers who came into contact with the Niapah patients are in the high-risk category, as they had followed the basic infectious disease control protocol.

 She said long-term surveillance is already in place, and any patient who comes in with symptoms of encyphalitis is tested for a possible Nipah virus infection.

The health minister said the WHO and ICMR studies had found out that the entire state of Kerala is prone to getting such infections, not just Kozhikode.

 People living in forest areas have to take the highest precautions, George said, adding the latest case of the Nipah virus originated within five kilometres of a jungle area.

More than 200 persons have been given counselling through the call centres, the minister said.

She said some members of a central team have already reached Kozhikode, and others were expected on Thursday. The centre team also consists of a bat surveillance unit, which will be visiting the containment zones on Thursday.

George further said that besides the teams from NIV, Pune, a group of epidemiologists would reach Kerala from Chennai to carry out a survey.

The Health Minister said, We have decided to take the samples of all those who are in the high risk contact goup of the first person who died on 30th.

She has further mentioned that in hospitals where the patients are being treated, there has to be a medical board where every 12 hours the details of the patients have to be given to the health department.

14 people are currently in isolation, however they dont have an epidemiological link with those who died, the Health Minister said.

We have some patients in isolation in private hospitals.11 has got mild symptoms, so their samples are also being taken and send to the lab

Giving an update on the 9-year -old who was infected by the virus, she said that his vitals are stable, but he is still in the ventilator.

Containment Zones in Kerala

Four more wardsthree in Villyapally and one in Purameri Panchayats in Kozhikode district have been declared as containment zones in addition to those announced on Tuesday.

Considering the serious nature of the disease, the Kozhikode administration has already declared seven village panchayatsAtanchery, Maruthonkara, Tiruvallur, Kuttiyadi, Kayakkodi, Villyapalli, and Kavilumpara as containment zones.

Rules for Containment Zones

 No travel in or out of these containment zones will be allowed till further notice. The police have been asked to cordon off these areas.

 Only stores selling essential commodities and medical supplies will be allowed to function.

 Shops selling essential goods will be allowed to function from 7 am to 5 pm. No time bar has been given for pharmacies and health centres.

 Local self-government institutions and village offices can function with minimum staff. Banks, other government or quasi-government institutions, educational institutions, and anganwadis should not operate, the district collector said.

 The public should use online services and avoid going to local self-government institutions, George said.

 Buses or vehicles plying on national highways through the containment zones should not stop in the affected areas.

(With inputs from PTI)
Over the past few months, there has been a rise in ambush attacks in Jammu and Kashmir as the militants have changed their strategy, intelligence agency sources told CNN-News18 on Thursday, a day after three Indian Army personnel, including a Colonel and a Major, as well as a Deputy Superintendent of the J&K Police were killed during a gunfight with terrorists in Anantnag district. Their deaths came less than 24 hours after another Indian Army jawan and an Army dog were gunned down in Rajouri.

The sources told CNN-News18 that the terrorists keep changing their tactics after they learn about the plans of security agencies.

They added that earlier militants were using cellphones that could be traced by security agencies, but now they have abandoned that practice.

Previously, militants would take shelter in one house or place, but now they keep changing their locations so that security agencies cant easily zero in on them, said the sources. This practice has led to casualties of security personnel.

As per officials, the deviation in intelligence inputs results in ambush attacks. And militants keep on updating themselves about the security plans and, accordingly, keep changing their tactics.

In the Anantnag attack, the terrorists didnt take shelter in any house but took refuge in the forests, said the sources.

CNN-News18 earlier reported that terrorists are now equipped with YSMS technology, which was used earlier in deadly attacks of 2016 and 2019.

In a meeting of top security officials this year, the use of YSMS and the problems in tracing terrorists due to no digital footprint of Very High Frequency (VHF) encrypted messages without data or any telecom operator were discussed.

The officials spoke about how terrorists are using phones without SIM cards. These phones are paired to radio sets through Bluetooth to send messages and location details for help to other devices in case of any emergency.
In an exclusive information accessed by News18, Pakistan has shifted all its terror camps and launch pads near LoC to increase infiltration in the area.

These terror camps have recruits from Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Hizbul Mujahideen, sources told News18.

The route maps, accessed by News18, show infiltrators using multiple entry routes to avoid any incident of firing by the Indian security forces.

According to new intelligence input accessed by News18, all launch pads have trained terrorists, who are directly managed by Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence.

It has been learnt that the entry of terrorists to the LoC will be bonus for the ISI, however, Pakistan has already transported almost 300 small weapons via drones in and around Srinagar for hybrid killing.

Pakistan to Increase Terror Activities in J&K

Top Indian intelligence sources told News18 that terror outfits from Pakistan are pressurising the Pakistani army to break ceasefire.

Intelligence inputs accessed by News18 confirm that the terror groups are putting pressure on the Pakistani Army for infiltration.

There is a huge trained cadre, most of them were forced by the Taliban in Afghanistan to back to Pakistan, sitting pretty in Peshawar, Bahawalpur and Muzaffarabad ready to infiltrate in the Indian territory, sources added.

Indian intelligence sources say cadre infiltration means the Pakistani Army will support the terrorists along the LoC. Their cover fire will force us to fire back and in that case it will be difficult to sustain ceasefire at this stage.

Earlier, News18 had broken the story of terrorist launch pads in forward areas of LoC.

Locations of Training Camps in PoK

Sources say there are three prominent clusters, which are fully operational in Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir (PoK)  Manshera, Muzaffarabad and Kotli.

Manshera has three camps in Boi, Balakot, Garhi Habibullah while the Muzaffarabad has Chelabandi, Shawainala, Abdullah Bin Masood and Dulai.

Three PoK brigade of the Pakistani Army located in Kotli coordinates the activities of Sensa, Kotli, Gulpur, Fagosh and Dubgi camp of the Kotli cluster.

These active camps mainly work as feeders to the launch pads located in the forward areas, which are 2-3 km from LoC in Gurez, Kel, Neelum valley, Tangdhar, Uri Chakoti, Gulmarg, Poonch, Rajouri, Naushera and Sundarbani sector.

According to the intelligence sources, these training camps are occupied by the terror groups, which recruiting youth from South Punjab province of Pakistan. They are brought here to impart training mainly in arms and suicide attacks.

They move just before the winter season, and the Over Ground Workers (OGWs) sitting in Srinagar work as their support. OGWs get weapons sent by the ISI through drones.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in Madhya Pradesh and will later go to Chhattisgarh today to launch a couple of projects. PM Modis office said he will lay the foundation stone of projects worth over Rs 50,700 crore in Madhya Pradesh from an event in Bina, while he will dedicate an important rail sector projects worth around Rs 6,350 crore in Chhattisgarh.

PMO said the new projects in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh will provide a major stimulus to industrial development in the state. The statement by PMO added that the PM Modis emphasis on improving connectivity will get a major boost through the rail sector projects in Chhattisgarh.

Assembly polls are due in Chhattisgarh also in November-December.

Track Latest Updates From PM Modis MP and Chhattisgarh Visit:

-PM Lays Foundation Stone of Bina Petroleum Complex in MP

PM lays foundation stone of Bina Petroleum Complex at Bina Refinery in MP and 10 other new industrial projects worth over Rs 50,700 crore.

#WATCH | Madhya Pradesh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi lays the foundation stone of projects worth more than Rs. 50,700 crore including the 'Petrochemical Complex' at Bina Refinery and ten new industrial projects across the state. PM also laid the foundation stone of ten projects pic.twitter.com/uxpYIIRnkr ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2023

-PM Modi in MPs Bina

PM Modi and CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan have reached MPs Bina where the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of projects worth more than Rs. 50,700 crore.

Watch Here:

#WATCH | Madhya Pradesh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan reach Bina, where he will lay the foundation stone of projects worth more than Rs. 50,700 crore including Petrochemical Complex' at Bina Refinery and ten new industrial projects across the state. pic.twitter.com/nHpdxw4pvU ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2023

PM Modis MP Visit Agenda:

1. PM to lay the foundation stone of Petrochemical Complex at Bina Refinery

Describing it as state-of-the-art, PMO said Bina refinery of the Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited will be developed at a cost of about Rs 49,000 crore and will produce about 1,200 KTPA (Kilo-Tonnes Per Annum) of ethylene and propylene, vital component for various sectors like textiles, packaging and pharma among others.

ALSO READ: 34 trips Since 2013, 7th This Year: How PM Modi And Madhya Pradesh Share Special Bond

The project will also open employment opportunities and give boost to the development of downstream industries in the petroleum sector.

2. Power and Renewable Energy Manufacturing Zone in Narmadapuram and Mega Industrial Park in Ratlam

During his MP visit, PM Modi will also lay the foundation stone of 10 projects, including power and renewable energy manufacturing zone in Narmadapuram district.

3. 2 IT parks in Indore, mega industrial park in Ratlam, 6 new industrial areas across state

Two IT parks in Indore, a mega industrial park in Ratlam, and six new industrial areas across Madhya Pradesh will also be launched.

PM Modis Chhattisgarh Visit Agenda:

1. PM to dedicate several important rail sector projects worth around Rs 6,350 crore to nation

Prime Ministers Office PM Modi, in a public programme in Raigarh, will dedicate to the nation rail sector projects worth around Rs 6,350 crore.

As per PMO, these projects include Chhattisgarh East Rail Project Phase-I, third rail line between Champa to Jamga, third rail line between Pendra Road to Anuppur and MGR (Merry-Go-Round) system connecting Talaipalli Coal Mine to NTPC Lara Super Thermal Power Station (STPS).

Chhattisgarh East Rail Project Phase-I is being developed under PM GatiShakti  National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity and consists of a 124.8 km rail line from Kharsia to Dharamjaygarh including a spur line to Gare-Pelma and three feeder lines connecting Chhal, Baroud, Durgapur and other coal mines, PMO statement said.

The rail line, built at a cost of around Rs. 3,055 crore, is equipped with electrified broad gauge level crossings and free part double line with passenger amenities. It will provide rail connectivity for coal transportation from Mand-Raigarh coalfields located in Raigarh.

The third rail line between Pendra Road to Anuppur is 50 km long and is built at a cost of about Rs 516 crore. The 98 kilometre long third line between Champa and Jamga rail section is built at a cost of about 796 crores. The new rail lines will improve the connectivity in the region and lead to increase in both tourism and employment opportunities, PMO said.

PMO said that the 65-km long electrified MGR (Merry-Go-Round) System will deliver low cost and high grade coal from NTPCs Talaipalli mine to 1600 MW NTPC Lara Super Thermal Power Station in Chhattisgarh.

This will boost the generation of low cost and reliable power from NTPC Lara, thus strengthening energy security of the country. The MGR system, built at a cost of more than Rs 2070 crore, is a technological marvel for improving the coal transportation from coal mines to power stations, PMO said.

2. PM to distribute one lakh sickle cell counselling cards

Targetting the health issues caused by sickle cell disease, especially among the tribal population, PM Modi will also distribute one lakh sickle cell counselling cards to the screened population.

The distribution of sickle cell counselling cards is being done under National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (NSAEM), PMO said. The campaign was launched by PM Modi in July 2023 in MPs Shahdol.

3. PM to lay the foundation stone of Critical Care Blocks in 9 districts of Chhattisgarh

PM Modi in Chhattisgarh will also lay the foundation stone of 50-bedded critical care blocks in nine districts of the state. The nine Critical Care Blocks will be built under Pradhan Mantri-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) at Durg, Kondagaon, Rajnandgaon, Gariaband, Jashpur, Surajpur, Surguja, Bastar and Raigarh Districts, at a total cost of more than Rs 210 crore.
CRPF jawans part of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) may soon be seen riding horses during crowd control duties, with the force sending a proposal for a mounted battalion to the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Top sources in the Central Reserved Police Force told News18 that the proposal is at an early stage. They added that the force plans to have 100 horses in a phased manner, but didnt reveal how many would be needed eventually to raise the battalion.

Explaining how a mounted battalion would help the RAF manage crowds more effectively, especially in conflict situations, a top-level CRPF official said: A mounted battalion, if approved, will be a game-changer for the RAF as it will help in crowd disbursement, management and controlling the situation. The jawans can easily handle the situation without using additional force, which sometimes harms the public. Also, it would be tough for a violent crowd to attack the jawan. A proposal has been sent to the government with details of the requirements of the battalion.

Another official from the RAF told News18 that the mounted battalion will efficiently disperse disorderly mobs during processions, demonstrations, rallies and dharnas, and it can be used for area patrolling, including on different terrains like river banks, parks, open green spaces, apart from various ceremonial duties.

The CRPF will not be the first among the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to have a mounted battalion as the Border Security Force (BSF) has such units deployed along the India-Pakistan and India-Bangladesh borders. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) which guards the India-China border too has mounted units.

The proposal sent by the CRPF to the Centre mentions areas where such mounted RAF battalions can be used  hilly areas, cold weather terrains like in J&K and urban areas across the country, among others.

The RAF recently found itself out of its depths when deployed in Manipur during violent ethnic riots. The force is now waiting for clearance from the MHA to move onto discussions on the financial aspects of the proposal.

The RAF is a specialised force raised in October 1992 with 10 battalions. Five more battalions were added in 2018, taking the total to 15 battalions at present. These units were set up to deal with riots and riot-like situations as well as handle internal security duty.

It is a zero-response force which reaches the spot of a crisis situation within minimal time, instilling an immediate sense of security among the general public. It trains male and female contingents for UN peacekeeping missions to different countries (Haiti, Kosovo, Liberia to name a few) every year.

The force also has a separate flag signifying peace and was the proud recipient of Presidents Colour Award, presented to it by then deputy prime minister LK Advani October 7, 2003.
The Supreme Court collegium headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud on Thursday recommended the names of seven additional judges of the Allahabad High Court and 11 of the Punjab and Haryana High Court for appointment as permanent judges.

The collegium, also comprising Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Sanjiv Khanna, met today and its decision was uploaded on the apex court website.

Those who have been recommended for appointment are Justices Umesh Chandra Sharma, Renu Agarwal, Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra, Mayank Kumar Jain, Shiv Shanker Prasad, Gajendra Kumar and Nalin Kumar Srivastava of the Allahabad High Court.

As per the SC collegiums resolution, on May 1, 2023, the collegium of the Allahabad High Court unanimously made the recommendations and the chief minister and governor of Uttar Pradesh have concurred with it.

In terms of the Memorandum of Procedure, the judges of the Supreme Court who are conversant with the affairs of the High Court of Judicature at Allahabad were consulted with a view to ascertain the suitability of the Additional Judges for being appointed as permanent judges.

The Committee of two judges of the Supreme Court constituted by the Chief Justice of India in terms of the Resolution dated October 26, 2017 of the Supreme Court Collegium has assessed the judgments of the Additional Judges, the collegium said.

The resolution said with a view to assessing the merit and suitability of the additional judges for appointment as permanent judges, it has scrutinised the material placed on record including the opinion of the consultee judges and the report of the Judgment Evaluation Committee.

On an overall consideration of the above proposal, the collegium is of the view that the seven Additional Judges, are fit and suitable for being appointed as permanent judges, it said.

In another decision, the apex court collegium recommended 11 additional judges of the High Court of Punjab and Haryana for appointment as permanent judges.

Those who have been recommended for appointment as permanent judges are Justices Nidhi Gupta, Sanjay Vashisth, Tribhuvan Dahiya, Namit Kumar, Harkesh Manuja, Aman Chaudhary, Naresh Singh, Harsh Bunger, Jagmohan Bansal, Deepak Manchanda and Alok Jain.

As per the resolution, on May 20, 2023, the collegium of the Punjab and Haryana High Court unanimously recommended their names.

The Chief Ministers and Governors of the States of Punjab and Haryana have concurred with the above recommendation. In terms of the Memorandum of Procedure, the judges of the Supreme Court conversant with the affairs of the High Court of Punjab and Haryana were consulted with a view to ascertain the suitability of the above Judges for being appointed as permanent judges, the SC collegium said.
A Lincoln man has been sentenced to 60 to 90 years in prison a month after being found guilty at trial of sexually abusing a young girl.

Alvaro Monterroso, 50, will have to serve at least 37 years before he's eligible for parole because of a mandatory minimum sentence.

According to court records, in June 2022 a woman in her 20s came forward about multiple incidents of sexual abuse that had occurred over a six-year period when she was a child.

In a recorded call with law enforcement officers listening in, Monterroso made admissions.

A Lancaster County jury found him guilty at a trial in August.

District Judge Jodi Nelson sentenced him Monday to the prison term. He also will have to register as a sex offender and be subject to a possible civil commitment upon release.

See photos from the 2023 Patriot Day ceremony in Lincoln Patriot Day Ceremony, 9.11 Patriot Day Ceremony, 9.11 Patriot Day Ceremony, 9.11 Patriot Day Ceremony, 9.11 Patriot Day Ceremony, 9.11 Patriot Day Ceremony, 9.11 Patriot Day Ceremony, 9.11
The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has called upon the government to take the lead in creating regulations for Over-the-Top (OTT) players rather than adhering to global benchmarks, stressing the uniqueness of Indias telecom market conditions. COAI Director General SP Kochhar pointed out several key aspects related to this proposal and the justifications behind it.

One of the major reasons is the significant contributions of Indian telecom service providers (TSPs) in fuelling the nations digital revolution. It was stated that TSPs have invested heavily in deploying networks, ensuring widespread connectivity, and introducing cutting-edge technologies such as 5G, while maintaining affordable tariffs for consumers.

This has resulted in over 860 million broadband subscribers in India. But despite these achievements, the telecom sector remains one of the most heavily taxed in the country, paying 30% in taxes. Moreover, the recent auctions for spectrum acquisition have incurred substantial costs for TSPs, further straining their financial positions.

As per the association, there is a disparity between the telecom service providers and OTT players, particularly Large Traffic Generator (LTG) OTTs. While TSPs invest in building and maintaining extensive networks, LTG OTTs generate disproportionately high traffic without contributing to network expenses.

These OTTs, which constitute a handful of global giants, earn revenue from both consumers and advertisers but channel it back to their home countries. SP Kochhar suggested that they should contribute to the Indian market, considering Indias prominence as a major global market for these OTTs.

COAI proposed a fair share contribution from OTTs to TSPs, stressing that this would not violate the principles of net neutrality. The rationale for this contribution stems from the fact that TSPs bear the costs of carrying traffic generated by OTTs without receiving compensation.

Drawing comparisons to other industries such as broadcasting and roadways, the association argued that OTTs should share a proportionate charge with TSPs for their enhanced network requirements. As per SP Kochhar, this approach would ensure that TSPs can continue to invest in expanding and improving network infrastructure.

In terms of benefits, COAI has outlined a few, including improved connectivity for consumers, particularly in underserved areas. It was said the revenue generated from OTTs could be reinvested in enhancing network coverage and quality, ultimately benefiting users. The proposal from COAI also includes provisions to support smaller OTT players, ensuring that they are not burdened by usage charges, thus promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in the sector.

However, in conclusion, the association calls for India to take the lead in regulating OTT players reflecting the evolving dynamics of the telecom industry and the need for a fair and sustainable ecosystem that benefits both TSPs and consumers. The proposal aims to ensure that OTTs contribute their fair share to support the growth and development of Indias digital infrastructure and connectivity.
The top leadership of Lashker-e-Taiba is believed to be behind the attack that claimed the lives of three Indian Army personnel, including a Colonel commanding a battalion and a Major, and a Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police in the Garol area of Anantnag district on Wednesday, top intelligence sources told News18.

Sources said foreign terrorists, a reference to militants from across the border, are suspected to be involved with alleged support of locals.

They are in touch with top trainers like Sajid Jat and Qasim. This is a deadly group that specialises in ambush, a source told News18.

Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Major Ashish Dhonack and Deputy Superintendent Humayun Bhat were critically injured in the gunfight with terrorists in the higher reaches of Kokorenag area. The officers succumbed to their injuries during treatment, officials said, adding that a jawan also died.

The banned Resistance Front, believed to be a shadow group of Pakistan-based Lashker-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the attack. Officials believe that it is the same set of terrorists who had carried out the attack on army personnel on August 4 killing three jawans in the higher reaches of the Halan forest area of Kulgam district.

The operation against the terrorists began on Tuesday evening in Garol area but was called off during the night. On Wednesday morning, the hunt for the terrorists resumed after information started trickling that they were spotted at a hideout, officials said.

Colonel Singh, leading his team from the front, attacked the terrorists. However, he was critically injured in the bullets fired by the terrorists. Singh, who belonged to 12th Sikh LI, was a recipient of Sena medal. Dhonack belonged to 15th Sikh LI. Dhonack and Bhat were also hit by bullets resulting in critical injuries.

The information was absolutely correct about the hideout, but before the attack from Indian side, they attacked with full force. This hideout was a warlike store and many medicines from Pakistan and other sophisticated weapons were also recovered, sources said.

Officials added that since infiltrators from across the border havent been able to enter Indian territory due to sharp vigil, foreign terrorists on Indian soil are being directed to carry out these kinds of attacks by their handlers in Pakistan.

The attack came a day after an Army personnel and Kent, a six-year-old female Labrador of the Armys dog unit, were killed and three security personnel injured in the gunfight in South of Pir Panjal at Rajouri in Jammu region. Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in the remote Narla village.
The Delhi High Court has said a woman is not entitled to maintenance if she has failed to disclose her income truthfully. The court pointed out that even after being highly qualified and having an earning capacity, she did not disclose her earnings to the court.

A single judge bench of Justice Vikas Mahajan was hearing a plea by a woman, who challenged the validity of a family court order granting maintenance under Section 24 of the Hindu Marriage Act.

Months after her marriage on April 21, 2014, the husband filed for a divorce petition due to incompatibility and differences. The woman, who was then working, resigned from her job on May 22, 2015.

However, the couple resolved their differences and divorce petition was withdrawn on February 6, 2016.

Three months after, a police complaint was filed by the woman. Immediately thereafter, the husband filed another divorce petition.

She sought a monthly sum of Rs 35,000 as maintenance.

The court noted it is not in dispute that the woman was M. Phil at the time of her marriage and was pursuing PhD, which she has completed and is now having the qualification of PhD (Management) with professional qualification in computers, while her husband is just a graduate.

There is no doubt that merely because a person is qualified she must be compelled to work, but here is a case where in addition to be qualified, the appellant has been working. There is no doubt a difference between capacity and actual earning, but it is not a case where appellant had only the capacity but the document on record clearly point out that she has also been working, the bench said.

The court said it is not only that the appellant is highly qualified and has an earning capacity, but in fact she has been earning, though has not been inclined to truthfully disclose her true income.

Such a person cannot be held entitled to maintenance. Pertinently, the claim for maintenance by the appellant under the provisions of Protection of Women against Domestic Violence Act has also met the same fate and the maintenance has been declined to her. We, therefore, find no merit in the appeal which is hereby dismissed, the bench said.
National Engineers Day is celebrated on September 15 every year to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, one of the greatest engineers of India. He was born on September 15, 1861, and is widely regarded as a pioneering engineer and statesman who made significant contributions to the development of India. Visvesvaraya was a civil engineer, statesman, and philanthropist who made significant contributions to the development of the country. He is credited with designing and building several iconic structures, including the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam, the Mysore Palace, and the Bangalore Water Supply Scheme.

Greetings to all hardworking engineers on #EngineersDay! Their innovative minds and tireless dedication have been the backbone of our nations progress. From infrastructural marvels to tech breakthroughs, their contributions touch every aspect of our lives. pic.twitter.com/lcBeL1GmZQ Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 15, 2023

Extending his wishes, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a video on X, formerly Twitter, and posted: Greetings to all hardworking engineers on #EngineersDay! Their innovative minds and tireless dedication have been the backbone of our nations progress. From infrastructural marvels to tech breakthroughs, their contributions touch every aspect of our lives.

National Engineers Day 2023: History and Significance

The government first declared September 15 as Engineers Day in 1968. The day is celebrated by engineers across India to honour Visvesvarayas legacy and to recognize the contributions of all engineers to society. It is a day to celebrate the ingenuity and creativity of engineers. It is also a day to recognize the importance of engineering in our society. By celebrating National Engineers Day, we can show our appreciation for the engineers who make our lives better.

WATCH: 7 Bollywood Actors Who Are Also Engineers

NATIONAL ENGINEERS DAY 2023: FACTS ABOUT VISVESVARAYA

He was the chief engineer responsible for the construction of the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam in Mysore, which helped in irrigation and power generation. Visvesvaraya received numerous honours, including the Bharat Ratna, Indias highest civilian award, in 1955. He served as the Diwan of Mysore from 1912 to 1918 and made significant administrative reforms in the state.

ALSO READ: Happy Engineers Day 2023: Best Wishes, Messages, Quotes, Images, and Social Media Status

NATIONAL ENGINEERS DAY: INTERESTING FACTS

National Engineers Day is celebrated in India, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. The theme for National Engineers Day 2023 is Engineering for a Sustainable Future. There are over 2 million engineers registered with the Institution of Engineers (India). India is one of the top producers of engineers in the world. Engineers play a vital role in Indias economy, contributing to sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology.

NATIONAL ENGINEERS DAY 2023: QUOTES BY M VISVESVARAYA

Remember, your work may be only to sweep a railway crossing, but it is your duty to keep it so clean that no other crossing in the world is as clean as yours. We require science, technology, and innovation to transform our country and improve the lives of our people.

NATIONAL ENGINEERS DAY 2023: QUOTES ABOUT ENGINEERS

Engineering is the application of science to the practical problems of life.  Henry Petroski Engineers are the problem solvers of the world.  Neil deGrasse Tyson Engineering is the art of making what is difficult easy.  Thomas Alva Edison Engineers are the architects of modern life.  Stephen Hawking Engineering is the application of creative intelligence to the needs of mankind.  Theodore von Karman Engineers like to solve problems. If there are no problems handy, they will create their own problems.  Henry Petroski Engineers turn dreams into reality.  Hayao Miyazaki Engineering is not about making things that are difficult; its about making things that are simple.  George de Mestral The best way to predict the future is to create it.  Peter Drucker Engineers are the architects of the future.  Arthur C. Clarke

HOW TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL ENGINEERS DAY
Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi and Ganeshotsav, is an auspicious Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha. He is known as the god of wisdom, prosperity and good fortune. The people in India are gearing up with pomp and zeal to celebrate the 10-day-long festival. This year, the festival will be observed from September 19 to September 28. As per the beliefs, Lord Ganesha is also known as the Vighnaharta, which means one who removes obstacles. He holds great significance in Hinduism, and almost all the rituals begin with his worship. On this day, people bring the idols of Lord Ganesha to their homes to offer prayers. But have you ever noticed that when a family brings an idol of Lord Ganesha at home, its face is usually covered or the eyes of the idol are covered with a sacred cloth? Do you know the reason? Let us tell you. While speaking to News18, Pudukkottai district priest Sudhakar explained that there is a belief that the face of Ganeshas idol should be revealed before the Pran Prathishta puja, on the day of Ganesh Chaturthi.

It is said that Pran Prathishta means when the family members invite Ganesha to reside in the idol. After the ritual, the idol is no longer made of soil but is believed to be a living form, who is a guest in the family for 10 days. That is why it is said that only after this puja, Lord Ganesha should see the family.

According to the Drik Panchang, this year, the auspicious time to welcome Ganesha home on Chaturthi Tithi will start at 12:39 pm on September 18, and end at 1:43 pm on September 19. The 10-day Ganesh Utsav festival will conclude on September 28 with Ganpati Visarjan.
Malayalam actress and RJ Meera Nandan recently got engaged to her fiance, Sreeju, in a private ceremony in Kerala. The news of their engagement was shared by the artist on her social media, where she expressed her excitement about the arranged marriage. The couple crossed paths through a matrimony website and after a few meetings, they decided to take the next step. Meera took to Instagram on September 13 to share photos from their engagement ceremony, which was attended by their close family and friends, while her fans showered love on them.

For the special day, Meera looked stunning in a beautiful yellow silk saree which she paired with a green blouse while the flower on her hair elevated her charm. She accessorized her look with green and golden jewellery. On the other hand, Sreeju opted for a classic white silk kurta pyjama, keeping it simple and traditional. The pictures also show them surrounded by their family members.

The caption read, Love, arranged to perfection. From a matrimonial site to the promise of forever, Meera and Sreeju have come a long way. After the state where parents talk among themselves, Sreeju flew from London to Dubai to meet who would become the most important person in his life; his partner for eternity and beyond. The rest of the story goes like any other, yet rich in its uniqueness  they meet, they fall in love, and they decide to spend the rest of their lives together. Heres to being newly engaged.

Meera Nandans engagement ceremony was attended by some of her closest friends from the film industry, including figures like Kavya Madhavan, Ann Augustine and Srinda, among others. Along with them, her colleagues and friends, including Manjima Mohan, Pearle Maaney, Dhanya Varma, Srinda and Archana Kavi also congratulated her in the comments section.

Meanwhile, the actress shared more pictures from the special occasion, showcasing the deep love between the couple as they posed candidly and held hands. Alongside the pictures, the actress expressed her sentiments with a simple yet heartfelt caption and wrote, For life.

Meera Nandan started her career in Malayalam cinema with her debut in Mulla and she continued to appear in more Malayalam films. She later ventured into Tamil cinema, where she showed her talent in movies like Kadhalukku Maranamillai, Ayyanar and Suriya Nagaram. Other than acting, Meera is a multitalented artist, renowned for her singing abilities and a radio jockey. In 2014, she moved to Dubai, where she became a successful radio presenter while she continued to work in cinema. Her most recent film was the comedy-drama Ennalum Ente Aliya, directed by Bash Mohammed.
Priyanka Chopra is a global star. Not only does she enjoy unparalleled stardom in India but in the USA as well. As such, the Desi girl is bound to make headlines whenever she shares something on her social media timeline or steps out of home. Maintaining that trajectory, Priyanka Chopra, who is a doting mother to Malti Marie Jonas, organised a playdate for her with her friends, since Nick has been busy with the Jonas brothers tour. The same was also attended by Preity Zintas kids Jai and Gia.

On Thursday, Priyanka Chopra dropped a whole bunch of pictures in her Instagram Stories, indicating that Malti had an eventful day. In the first picture, we can see PeeCee holding Malti by her waist, as she played with her toys. The following slides showed Malti and her friends having an amazing playdate. Priyanka Chopra even captioned the first slide Play Date with friends(with heart eyes emojis).

Take a look:

Meanwhile, Preity Zinta shared a picture of three cookies with the names Malti, Jai and Gia plastered on them with choclate frosting. She wrote, Generation next(with three heart emojis). #playdate #Ting #cuties!

Recently, Priyanka Chopra made headlines for her hot appearance at New York Fashion Week to celebrate the Victorias Secret World Tour event. For the special night, Priyanka was seen wearing a sheer dress that displayed her black lingerie. The actress left her hair open for the night and sported minimal make-up, allowing her outfit grab all the attention.

The event was also attended by Doja Cat, Naomi Campbell, Adriana Lima, Candice Swanepoel, Gigi Hadid and Lily Aldridge. Speaking with the press at the event, Priyanka showed Nick her love and support. Priyanka, who has been attending Jonas Brothers concerts lately, was asked to describe her perfect outfit. Well its different if I am going to someone elses concert and if I am going to my husbands concert. Because when I go to my husbands concert, I am really proud and I am excited seeing him up there and I am his number one fan, a lot of people would debate me on that and I agree, she said.

Priyanka was last seen opposite Richard Madden in Prime Videos spy-thriller series Citadel. The series was created by Josh Appelbaum, Bryan Oh and David Weil. It also featured Stanley Tucci, Lesley Manville and Ashleigh Cummings in pivotal roles. The actor will soon begin shooting for Farhan Akhtars Jee Le Zara with Katrina Kaif and Alia Bhatt. She was also filming for Heads of State.
Star Vijay TV has carved out a significant spot in the hearts of Tamil Nadus residents thanks to its diverse range of reality shows and daily serials. A new reality show titled Kathanayagi debuted on Star Vijay on July 29, 2023.

Actress Radhika and director K.S. Ravikumar have been serving as the judges for this show. Reports indicate that the heroine show is reaching its conclusion, likely due to the impending broadcast of Bigg Boss Season 7 Tamil.

Radhika Sarathkumar is a renowned actress in the Tamil film industry and has also made a significant mark in the Tamil television industry. On the other hand, K.S. Ravikumar is a famous filmmaker in the Tamil film industry. He is known for both his directing and acting prowess.

Kathanayagi promises to be a distinctive program, showcasing the talents of ordinary individuals and offering a fantastic opportunity to embark on a journey as a heroine in Vijay TV. It airs on Saturdays and Sundays at 9:30 PM, with the noble objective of introducing a deserving female protagonist to the television industry.

The selection process for Kathanayagi entails conducting auditions at multiple locations. Aspiring actresses from various backgrounds and with a range of talents participate in these auditions, all vying for a chance to join the show. These auditions are overseen by industry experts who meticulously assess each participants potential and suitability for the roles theyll undertake on the show.

Invitations were released two months ago to young women aged 18 and above, inviting them to apply for the shows auditions, which occurred in May.

The contestants will be tasked with various challenges that require them to showcase their talents and achieve high scores. In each round, contestants with lower scores will face elimination, gradually narrowing down the field. The contestant who consistently performs well with a high score will ultimately claim the title with the coveted opportunity to become a heroine on Vijay TV.
Ektaa R Kapoor and Rhea Kapoors much-anticipated release, Thank You for Coming, is being highly appreciated across various international diasporas. The producer duo have many reasons to celebrate ahead of the official Indian theatrical release of their film. Thank You For Coming is the only Indian selection this year to have a Gala Premiere at 2023 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 15th and 16th. With an early screening held at TIFF, the film has already started garnering positive early reviews, boosting the confidence of the entire Thank You For Coming team.

The shows on both days at TIFF, held at Roy Thomson Hall and Royal Alexandra Theatre, have sold out all their tickets. The shows are houseful, with select seats being held for allotment at the venue, which too is high in demand as audiences eagerly anticipate this must-watch chick flick that addresses womens sensuality in a quirky way.

Speaking about the excitement of the TIFF audience and the anticipation for the Gala Premiere tomorrow, director Karan Boolani shares, The response Thank You For Coming is receiving is quite overwhelming for me. Its an absolute honour to debut at TIFF with your first film, and now that I am here and see the eagerness of people to watch our film, its a feeling I cant even put into words.

The entire team, including Bhumi Pednekar, Shehnaaz Gill, Kusha Kapila, Dolly Singh, Shibani Bedi, producers Anil Kapoor and Ektaa R Kapoor, and director Karan Boolani, will be attending the Gala Premiere in Toronto.

Produced by Balaji Telefilms Limited and Anil Kapoor Film Communication Network Pvt. Ltd, directed by Karan Boolani, and written by Radhika Anand and Prashasti Singh, Thank You For Coming will be released in theatres worldwide on October 6th, 2023.
A statement made by Union Minister and former Army chief General VK Singh (retd) became the breaking news of the day on Monday. In reply to a question regarding Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the General said that PoK would merge with India on its own after some time. This seems true with every passing day. In PoK and Gilgit Baltistan (GB), thousands of people are participating in protests, raising slogans in favour of opening both the Skardu-Kargil road leading into the Union Territory of Ladakh as well as the Line of Control (LoC) between PoK and Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

It is Pakistans treatment of PoK and GB that has forced people to lose all hope in Pakistan and to look at alternatives. For the past 77 years, Pakistan has weaved a false political and geographical narrative around Jammu and Kashmir. However, in recent times, the spread of information and cross-border connectivity developed due to social media has played an instrumental role in totally shattering Pakistans claim of being a big brother and the claim that Islam serves as a bond of unity has withered away.

Pakistan is now seen not only as an occupier but also as an exploiter of our natural resources. It steels our electricity at the rate of Rs 4.00 per unit and then sells to us at the rate of Rs 53 per unit. Heavy taxes have been imposed on electricity bills and United Nations-sanctioned subsidies on food have been cut.

For the past five months, ad-hoc subject specialists have not been paid salaries. Similarly, pensioners have not received any money for three months. The ever-increasing cost of living has made living a healthy life unsustainable in PoK. Under the circumstances, the people of PoK and GB are becoming ready to rejoin Bharat. Therefore, it is correct to say that Singh has felt the pulse of the people of PoK and GB and his statement is spot-on.

An incident that took place at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, is an indication of what might come next. On September 7, a young man switched on his mobile camera and began recording a conversation with military personnel, which in minutes, turned into an argument followed by an assault on the civilian. The young man had asked for medical assistance for a relative he brought to the CMH. But the military guards stopped him at the gates and did not allow him to enter the premises. They asked him to stop filming but he continued to record. In the end, another guard approached him and beat him into submission.

The military stationed in PoK has become highly anxious about civilians in recent days. This is because of the ongoing civil unrest in PoK against the sky-rocketed taxes imposed on electricity bills. Protests that began four months ago have now spread all across PoK. Schoolchildren have also joined the protest rallies, chanting slogans against the military.

On September 5, the Pakistan Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) announced that two new check posts would be established at Kohala crossing point and Mangla-Mirpur road. This has angered the population of PoK even more. Locals see this development as yet another act by Pakistan to trick them into paying customs duties worth billions of rupees.

Thousands of government employees have not received salaries for the past 20 months. Their families are starving and children have been taken off the school register due to non-payment of tuition fees. In Gilgit-Baltistan, public anger is such that hundreds of thousands of protestors are now openly asking for the GB border with India to be reopened so that they can resume trade with Ladakh.

All of this has taken political analysts other than Singh by surprise. While the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is conducting experiments to revive a long-dead Pakistan economy by applying shock therapy tactics and panic sale of the countrys assets is underway, the spirits of angry people in both PoK and GB swing like a pendulum between hope and despair. Enhanced hope can turn the tide of the history of our region in a fruitful way with the deliverance of freedom.

However, if the pendulum swings further towards despair, then the world could be on the verge of witnessing yet another religious-fanatic genocide and a tsunami of counter-revolution from which the sub-continent will not be able to recover for generations to come.

Under these circumstances, it seems all but plausible that a governing body among political activists in exile should be established to not let the pendulum of time swing too far into despair. It could be that this body becomes the decisive link between the unrest back home in PoK and GB and the revolutionary change we all have been striving for.

To change the course of history, we must take advantage of the civil unrest, which is showing all signs of snowballing into a full-fledged revolution that could end the 77 years of illegal occupation by Pakistan and bring peace to the region.

Dr Amjad Ayub Mirza is an author and a human rights activist from Mirpur in PoJK. He currently lives in exile in the UK. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
Creighton University recently unveiled a new institute focused on improving health outcomes in Nebraska, with specific goals of improving access to health care and helping to address health inequities in the community.

The Rev. Daniel Hendrickson, Creightons president, announced the creation of the Institute for Population Health in an address on the universitys Omaha campus and in another on its Phoenix, Arizona, campus.

The Institute for Population Health embodies our mission of service and justice, bringing together our Creighton community with our partners to identify concrete solutions that enhance individual well-being and eliminate systemic barriers to health equity broadly, Hendrickson said in a statement.

Dr. Scott Shipman, a Lincoln native who earned his medical degree at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, serves as executive director of the new institute. He returned to Nebraska last fall after serving as director of clinical innovations and primary care initiatives with the Association of American Medical Colleges in Washington, D.C.

In that position, he said, he worked with large academic health systems to think about ways to redesign clinical models to root out inefficiencies and improve communication and coordination among providers.

Driving the creation of the institute is the high cost of health care in the United States, which despite that investment has the lowest life expectancy among other, lower-spending wealthy nations. The U.S. spent more than $4.3 trillion on health care in 2021, which represents 18.3% of the nations gross domestic product.

Shipman said one focus of the institute is promoting high-value care. That is generally considered to be preventive care such as childhood immunizations and certain cancer screenings that can head off more serious and costly problems later on but that often is underused by people with multiple chronic health conditions and low-income and minority groups.

The new institute is going to focus a significant part of its attention on how we can make the delivery of health care better, improve access and root out waste and inefficiency, he said.

The institute also will focus on health disparities created by the health care system, including barriers to access for certain populations and implicit biases in health care, Shipman said.

Accessing health care is a challenge for many in the U.S. and is a particular challenge in rural areas. Some 35% of Nebraskans live in rural areas, according to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, more than double the national average.

Rural access to surgical care was the focus of the inaugural Creighton-CHI Health Equity in Rural Surgery Symposium Friday in Omaha. Shipman hosted the symposium with Dr. Waddah Al-Refaie, the new chairman of the Creighton School of Medicines surgery department.

But while the health care system will be one focus, Shipman said, the institute also recognizes that 80% of the factors that determine health outcomes are not medical. They include individuals health behaviors and the conditions in which they are born, live and work, such as access to affordable food and housing.

Given that, he said, the institute will focus on supporting population health at the community level by working with community-based organizations, those that already have established, trusted relationships in the community, to help them do even better at what they do. That could mean bringing the universitys resources to bear to help such groups build capacity and skills, as well as supporting their evaluation of interventions in the community.

The institute, he said, will be building an approach known as implementation science, which he used in his previous position. It involves applying best practices, turning ideas into successfully executed interventions and evaluating those interventions along the way to find out whether theyre working. Those that are can be scaled up in ways that will be sustainable.

Its building on that experience that I want to bring here, said Shipman, who also trained in pediatrics at Dartmouth College and earned a masters degree in public health at Johns Hopkins University.

In addition to partnering with community groups, another key to the institutes work will be leveraging data to raise awareness about needs in the community and to drive action. Shipman will work in partnership with CHI Health, Creightons clinical partner, and CyncHealth, which provides health care data to providers throughout Nebraska.

A second symposium Oct. 23-24, which will be open to the public, will focus on using population health to build healthier communities. The symposium, Building Bridges for Healthier Communities, will include national experts on population health and breakout sessions with Creighton faculty and community leaders. Registration and additional information are available at https://www.creighton.edu/events/university-symposium-population-health-building-bridges-healthier-communities.

Top Journal Star photos for August 2023
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau seems to have fallen on the wrong side of the Hindu God Shani. Bungling up for a second time in India, then failing to take off from the country, and being shredded globally while stuck in those circumstances, Trudeaus India curse is the beginning of the end of his political career.

It is proving hard for the Canadian PM to shake off this curse. His politics is being held hostage by Khalistanis in his government. India has continued the tradition of snubbing him. As India grows more and more relevant in global affairs, Canada is slipping into the shadows of insignificance. Trudeau has thrown in the foreign policy towel. The Canadian media and his opponents are having a field day tearing into him. Its 2018 all over again. And this time, it is more serious.

In February 2018, Trudeau set out on an eight-day visit to India expecting a splash of grandeur. Instead, he made a complete mockery of himself when in a cursed Bollywood trip to India, he was snubbed by his counterpart after news of a convicted Khalistani terrorist Jaspal Atwal being invited to official events came out. That turned into a global spectacle, an unforgotten cringe-fest that makes both Canadians and Indians squirm in agony.

Five years later, a 51-year-old Trudeau arrived at the heart of India, still none the wiser. After being snubbed by most leaders throughout the G20 summit, failing to secure a bilateral meeting with India and skipping the G20 dinner hosted by PM Modi as if to sulk about it all, Trudeau was obliterated by the Indian prime minister the next day.

As is usually the case with pull-aside encounters, the two leaders got straight to the point as PM Modi raised the threat of Khalistani terror emanating from Canada and its involvement in organised crime, drug syndicates and human trafficking. India drew its red lines, but Trudeau came out unhinged, and chose to defend the Khalistanis under the cover of free speech. He also had the gall to talk about foreign interference accusing India of meddling in Canadas affairs, when it is indeed Canada that is fomenting a significant terror threat to India.

What the Canadian people should realise is that Trudeaus defence of Khalistanis is not about free speech. Open calls for the assassination of Indian diplomats are not free speech. Attacking Indian diplomatic missions is not free speech. Parading a tableau carrying a violent depiction in celebration of the 1984 assassination of Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi is not free speech. Vandalising Hindu temples and perpetrating hate against other Indian communities is also not free speech.

All of these events have taken place overtly in Canada just in the last few months. But Trudeau has refused to condemn and crack down upon such violent elements even if it skewers Canadas relations with India for a long time to come. Compare this with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, who said, Let me just say unequivocally that no form of extremism or violence like that is acceptable in the UK. He added that his government is working with the Indian government to tackle Khalistani extremism.

Justin Trudeau is no free-speech absolutist. In February 2022, he rained down hard upon the Freedom Convoy of Truckers who had been protesting peacefully. He condemned them, sent the riot police after them and froze their bank accounts. That was not a good time for free speech in Canada.

Another point for Canadians to understand is that if there were to be an independent Khalistani nation, it would potentially be established within Canadian borders, not in India. There are 20 million Sikhs in India compared with less than 800,000 in Canada, not all of whom support the idea of Khalistan. The Indian state of Punjab, home to 32 million people, is distinct from cases like China-occupied Tibet, Hong Kong, or Taiwan. The majority of Sikhs in India do not advocate for a referendum to break away from the country. A specific faction of Sikh groups, which has found fertile political support in Canada and has formed alliances with Pakistan, has formulated this aspiration.

It is awfully clear that Justin Trudeau has driven Canadas ties with India to the gutters simply for the sake of his twisted domestic politics. The woke progressivism going full whack over climate change and gender ideology is not enough for Trudeau to form a government in Canada. He needs the support of the New Democratic Party, backed by certified Khalistani extremists, without which his government would fall apart. With 156 seats in the House of Commons, Trudeaus Liberal Party relies on pro-Khalistan kingmaker Jagmeet Singhs party which has another 25 seats, to run a minority government in the country.

Moreover, pandering to Khalistanis is an old sickness of the Trudeau dynasty. Justin Trudeau is walking in the footsteps of his father, Pierre Trudeau, who had been Canadas prime minister twice, between 1968 and 1979 and then from 1980 to 1984. Like his son, Pierre Trudeau was similarly dismissive about Indias concerns about Khalistani terrorism and went out of his way to defend the head of a terrorist group. Talwinder Parmar, head of Khalistani terror organisation Babbar Khalsa, was saved by the then Canadian prime minister who refused to extradite the terrorist to India, a fellow commonwealth nation. The excuse was that India did not pay fealty to the Queen as its head of state and therefore extradition protocols did not apply. Three years later, Parmar would go on to place a bomb onboard the Kanishka Air India flight killing all 329 people on the plane off the coast of Ireland.

Back in the 80s, Indias sensibilities may have been insignificant to Canadas scheme of things, but today, transgressing Indias red lines is no less than shooting oneself in the foot. Today, however, consumed by arrogance, puerility and woke politics, Trudeau has read the tea leaves all wrong and is cutting the Canadian people off from an emerging great power, only to advance his petty political interests.

This is a lesson for the Western electorate that tends to be enticed by woke buzzwords above all else. It is not just about time that Canadians see through Trudeau, a woke, juvenile dynasts tomfoolery, but it is also time that people in the Western bloc reflect on their political choices. Just as Justin Trudeau is flaming out, Finlands Sanna Marin has flamed out and New Zealands Jacinda Ardern who admitted to having no more left in the tank is extinguished but not before gravely damaging the reputation and stature of their countries.
Today, if the youth of this country are asked whether they know Charu Mazumdar, Kanu Sanyal and Jangal Santhal or not, chances are that they will give you a puzzled look. Or maybe ask them if they have heard about the Naxalbari uprising and you will again get nothing but confused faces. Now do the same with people in their late 50s or 60s and they will tell you all about the scourge that Naxalite terrorism used to be.

As India successfully concludes its maiden G20 summit in the heart of the capital and looks forward to becoming the third-largest economy in the world by the turn of this decade, the fact that Naxalite terrorism has become a term little heard of is a sign of its forward movement towards inclusive development.

In the late 1960s at the peak of Indias socialist days, a little-known village of Naxalbari in West Bengal became the launchpad for a protracted armed revolution against the state. It so happened that the peasants and workers working on tea plantations in that village, who also had a long history of being exploited by the landowners and moneylenders, united against an incident of violence by a landowner against a poor worker. This incident sparked a mass rebellion across the state and also spread to other parts of the country. Although the rebellion may look like a spontaneous event, in reality, the groundwork was being laid in advance by the radical faction of the Communist Party of India (Marxist).

In interviews to Indian media, Abhijit Mazumdar, son of Charu Mazumdar has himself explained how his father, along with his other co-ideologists, had put years of hard work into launching and sustaining a Maoist uprising in Naxalbari. In fact, there is a precursor to the Naxalbari uprising in the Tebhaga movement launched in Bangladesh by the same set of activists including Mazumdar, Kanu Sanyal and Jangal Santhal. The aftermath of the Naxal uprising led to the creation of a security challenge for the Indian state that would last for the next 5-6 decades.

Growing up, I remember being asked to write a long note on the causes of Left-wing extremism in India and how it is a nuisance for the state, in my schools social science exam every year. Often, the newspaper also would be full of headlines where political leaders, security personnel and ordinary citizens would be targeted by the Naxalites. On one hand, there was the Kashmir insurgency where militants were bleeding the state through multiple cuts and on the other was the Maoist insurgency, which had infested no less than 10 states and around 180 districts by the year 2010.

Since the foundation of the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) more popularly known as the Peoples War Group, the violence by Left-wing extremists had spread across the interiors of the country in states such as Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar and Chhattisgarh. These extremists who called themselves revolutionaries waged an active war against the Indian state while singing tunes of the Chinese state which, according to them, was an ideal type. Some old-timers even recall chanting, Chinas Chairman is our Chairman. China witnessed a total communist revolution under the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) founded by Chairman Mao Zedong which later led to the establishment of the communist state, Peoples Republic of China (PRC).

This PRC seems to the Indian communists as their role model till today. They also swore allegiance to Maos ideology where he preached, political power flows from the barrel of the gun. But unlike China, where the Kuomintang, the nationalist party lost the war to the CCP and eventually was forced to limit itself to the Republic of China (known as Taiwan currently), in India, no such victory could be secured by the communists.

In 2009, the UPA government launched Operation Green Hunt, a large-scale counter-offence with massive troop deployment across Maoist-infested states such as Andhra, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. Although due to the criticism by the communists, the then Home Minister P Chidambaram did a U-turn later and said no such operation existed and it was an invention of the media but on the ground, the troop deployment did take place for real. By 2013, more than 84000 troops were stationed across the so-called Red Corridor. In 2014, with a change of government, Indias fight against the Naxalites got an unprecedented boost. The Modi government not only showed more conviction in taking on the Left-wing extremism but it also changed its approach  from a narrow counteroffensive driven approach to a multi-pronged strategy.

In 2015, a National Policy and Action Plan was launched to deal with the Maoist challenge where the Union Home Ministry adopted multiple methods to control and curtail Left-wing extremism. This included security-related measures as well as development interventions to ensure that the districts that had been lost to the Leftist extremists could be once again integrated into the mainstream. Along with this, emphasis was laid on ensuring the rights and entitlements of local communities so that they could not be brainwashed by the communist forces into picking up arms.

As a part of this action plan, many new schemes were introduced by the Home Ministry. Key among them are the Special Infrastructure Scheme, Security Related Expenditure Scheme and the Special Central Assistance Scheme. As part of these schemes, more than 600 police stations have been fortified at the expense of the Central government to make sure that they do not fall to the Maoist designs in vulnerable areas. Also, massive funds have been released by the Centre to create critical infrastructure to bridge the long-existing gap in Maoist-infested districts. This includes the construction of post offices, bank branches and ATMs.

Despite 75 years of independence, some of these basic facilities and financial inclusion was still evading a large population residing in these districts. The Security Related Expenditure Scheme has also helped the states in building their capacity to curtail incidents of Left-wing violence. As a part of this, Rs 2600 crore has been released by the Modi government since 2014-15 to ensure the training of security personnel, rehabilitation of surrendered Maoists and compensation for property damaged due to Left-wing extremism.

These steps as taken by the government have been accompanied with an emphasis on the creation of infrastructure such as roads and telecom networks in the vulnerable districts. More than 13,000 km of roads have been laid down in such places along with more than 3000 mobile towers for better connectivity. Along with this, ITIs and Skill Development Centres have also been opened in the tribal belts to make sure that the youth in these regions can find meaningful avenues of employment. These efforts have started bearing fruit as according to the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs, the number of districts hit by Left-wing violence have come down to 45 from 96 in 2010. Even the incidents of violence have come down sharply from around 1136 in 2013 to 531 incidents in 2022, with the number of deaths reduced by around 75 per cent in such cases.

The rising economy of India has not only equipped the state with the material capability to take on the Maoists but it has also made the war against the state an increasingly unattractive phenomenon for the Naxalites. Many prominent Naxal leaders have surrendered in the last decade in order to lead a life away from violence. Ironically, even as the rural Naxals have realised the virtue of peace and the conducive conditions for economic development that are now present in India, the breed of urban Naxals is refusing to withdraw from hate-mongering against the state. As they used to say in earlier times, some Leftists still believe that Chinas Chairman is our Chairman. But he clearly is not.

The author is a PhD from the Department of International Relations, South Asian University. She writes on Indias foreign policy. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
These are the ways to avoid the virus transmission in any way either from bat to human, or the other way round. (Image: News18)
The Indonesian first lady Iriana Joko Widodo was presented an Assam stole made by skilled artisans using Muga silk in a Kadam Wood box. Assam stoles are traditional pieces of clothing woven in the northeastern state. This stole has been crafted by skilled artisans using Muga silk. These stoles are known for their intricate designs and motifs that often draw inspiration from the region's natural surroundings, frequently showcasing elements like flora and fauna. Assam stoles are not just garments; they embody the rich cultural heritage of the Assamese people and their weaving traditions. Draping an Assam stole isn't just donning clothing  it's embracing a glorious cultural heritage and artistic legacy. Kadam (Burflower tree) wood is considered auspicious in Indian culture and features in Indian religions and mythologies. This box has been handcrafted by the artisans of Karnataka. (Image: News18)
Maharashtra assembly speaker Rahul Narwekar on Thursday began hearing the disqualification petitions filed against each other by two rival Shiv Sena outfits led by chief minister Eknath Shinde and his predecessor Uddhav Thackeray. Last year, the Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government collapsed after a rebellion in the then undivided Shiv Sena with Shinde and several other MLAs teaming up with the Bharatiya Janata Party. After Eknath Shinde became the chief minister with the BJPs support, the two factions of the Shiv Sena filed disqualification pleas against each other. The matter also reached the Supreme Court, which asked the Maharashtra assembly speaker to make a decision.

Shinde has successfully claimed the Shiv Sena name and poll symbol from the Election Commission of India.

On Thursday, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader and whip Sunil Prabhus petition was taken up for hearing by Narwekar. Prabhu has demanded the disqualification of the Shiv Sena MLAs who didnt follow the whip when they had gone with Eknath Shinde. He has also requested the speaker to hear the entire matter together.

The counsel for the Shinde-led Shiv Sena said that a copy of Prabhus petition must be given to his side.

Narwekar asked both sides to make the required documents available and share them with each other, giving them two weeks to do so. The date for the next hearing will be decided after that, said Advocate Anil Singh, representing the Shinde camp, while speaking with the media at the Vidhan Bhavan premises.

The hearing began today. For the first petition filed by Sunil Prabhu against the 40 MLAs of Shiv Sena, the speaker has given time of two weeks. We had some objections regarding this petition, which we raised today in front of the speaker, Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Shirsat told News18.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Ravindra Waikar said that the speaker should decide the matter soon. The way lawyers had represented our side in the Supreme Court and high court, similarly they represented our side today in front of the speaker. We had requested that the hearing of the main petition should start as early as possible but the other party is using delay tactics by asking for time. According to the Supreme Courts order, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sunil Prabhu is the whip. Now the speaker will have to discuss and make a decision regarding the MLAs who had gone against Prabhus whip and voted. Though the apex court has given 3 months to decide the matter, looks like the other party wants to delay it further. We want the speaker to make a decision on this matter as early as possible, he told News18.
Calling it a bullying tactic and an emergency, the BJP on Thursday hit back at the INDIA blocs decision to boycott the shows of 14 television anchors from different channels. Certain media bodies like the National Broadcasters & Digital Association, also slammed the move and called it an attack on democracy.

Earlier in the day, the newly formed opposition front listed the names of 14 journalists saying they will not be sending their representatives to their shows.

BJP national president JP Nadda said this was the opposition emergency mindset era, which is alive among these parties and this was an exercise of making lists in true Nazi style.

These days, the I. N. D. I Alliance is ONLY doing 2 things:BASHING SANATANA SANSKRITI  each party is competing to outdo the other in hurling the choicest abuses towards Sanatana Sanskriti. BULLYING THE MEDIA- filing FIRs, threatening individual journalists, making lists in  Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) September 14, 2023

Talking to news agency ANI, union minister Anurag Thakur said the step taken against the media by the INDIA bloc is emergency 2.0. The steps that the INDI alliance have taken against the media is emergency 2.0 This shows that they do not believe in democracy he said.

Thakur said one emergency was declared by Indira, and the other has been declared by the Ghamandiya alliance. They do not trust democracy, you can see the state of affairs in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. Those who used to talk about media autonomy have now taken such a drastic step to repress it, he added.

BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya, however, said the 14 journalists should wear this as a badge of honour as they had refused to bend when the opposition expected them to crawl.

So I.N.D.I Alliance has released a list of journalists, who refused to even bend, when the Opposition expected them to crawl. They should wear it as a badge of honour. More power to them pic.twitter.com/WPwivrLC2q Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) September 14, 2023

The BJP later issued a formal statement condemning the INDIAs boycott decision, saying it reflected their oppressive and dictatorial thinking. The decision taken by the INDI Alliance parties involved in the arrogant alliance to boycott and threaten journalists is highly condemnable. This reflects their oppressive and dictatorial thinking. BJP strongly condemns this poor mentality of the alliance, posted Anil Baluni, BJP national media incharge.

"The decision taken by the INDI Alliance parties involved in the arrogant alliance to boycott and threaten journalists is highly condemnable. This reflects their oppressive and dictatorial thinking. BJP strongly condemns this poor mentality of the Alliance", tweets Anil Baluni, pic.twitter.com/b9ni1VrYzL ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2023

INDIA blocs media committee took the boycott decision in a virtual meeting in the afternoon. The opposition said it was making this decision with a heavy heart and were not opposed to any of these anchors. But, he said, their love for the country is above all else.

We have made this decision with a heavy heart. We are not opposed to any of these anchors. We dont hate any of these anchors. But, we love our country more. We love our Bharat, said Congress leader Pawan Khera on INDIAs decision.

Media bodies express concern

The News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) expressed anguish and concern over the decision, saying it sets a dangerous precedent. The boycott goes against the ethos of democracy, the association said.

It betokens intolerance and imperils press freedom. The opposition alliance claims to be the champion of pluralism and a free press, but its decision betrays callous disregard for democracys most fundamental tenet  the inalienable right to openly express ideas and opinions.

The boycott of certain journalists/anchors takes the nation back to the Emergency era, when the press was gagged, and independent opinions and voices were crushed, the NBDA said, urging the opposition alliance to withdraw its decision that amounts to browbeating journalists and stifling freedom of speech and expression.

The National Union of Journalists (NUJ), meanwhile, termed the boycott an attack on democracy. It took strong exception to the INDIA blocs boycott of some journalists and condemned the same, alleging that the opposition parties have politicised the media.

The president of NUJ linked to the International Federation of Journalists, Ras Bihari, said in a statement that this decision of the opposition parties is a black chapter of repression on the media in Indias democratic history. This is totally wrong and unacceptable, he said, adding that this reflects the lack of democratic values in these parties.
Taking a dig at the newly formed opposition bloc INDIA, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said those who are losing elections have so much hate that they are now opposing your culture and have decided to finish sanatan sanskriti. From (Mahatma) Gandhi to Swami Vivekananda from Ahilyabai to Mirabai, for thousands of years, Sanatan Dharma inspired everyone. The INDI Alliance wants to finish off this sanatan sanskriti and people of Chhattisgarh should beware of them They want to finish thousands of years of Indian culture. Ye Bharat ko mitana chahte hain (they want to finish off Bharat), he said at the BJPs Shankhnaad rally in poll-bound Chhattisgarh.

The prime minister said the BJP government at the Centre will leave no stone unturned in Chhattisgarhs progress if voted to power as the Congress, which was the ruling party at present, had done nothing for the development of the state. He slammed the Bhupesh Baghel-led state government for its corruption-laden rule and enumerated a number of alleged scams that had taken place in its regime.

We want our tribal population to benefit from central schemes and will leave no stone unturned for the states progress if voted to power. The corrupt Congress government in the state has done nothing for its development. The Congress had promised to eradicate poverty but had it worked towards that, Modi wont have had to work so hard to achieve this aim, he said at the public gathering held in Raigarh.

He added: We wanted to extend benefits of the PM Awas Yojana to Chhattisgarh, but the Congress government is not allowing it. The scam politics that the Congress is indulging in, it only benefits their leaders. Imagine if someone can do a scam in cow dung, then what will be their mentality? The Congress used minerals of the state as their own personal ATM. Fake publicity and corruption is the identity of the Congress government and the BJPs track record is right in front of you.

The PM said during Indira Gandhis time, the Congress promised to remove poverty but had they done their work properly, then Modi would not have been forced to put in so much effort.

Chhattisgarhiya sabse badhiya, waise hi duniya ke log keh rahey hain Bharat ka Chandrayaan sabse badhiya (people of the world are saying that Indias Chandrayaan is the best). The successful G20 is the result of the hard work of every Indian, he said, explaining that even Chhattisgarh had a part to play in the resounding success of the G20 Leaders Summit held in New Delhi on September 9 and 10.

He added: All big projects of central government are now being completed in Chhattisgarh. A new chapter is being added to the history of rail network in the state.

Before the rally, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated rail sector projects, laid the foundation stone of critical care blocks in nine districts and distributed one lakh sickle cell counselling cards at a function organised by the state government. After the function, he held a roadshow on his way to the BJP rally.
Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde found himself in a tight spot after a video of the CM, apparently showing him being carefree about the Maratha quota issue, went viral. He later clarified that the remark was shown in a distorted manner but by then the opponents had latched onto the remark.

In the video, Shinde can be heard saying, We just need to speak and get it out of the way and leave, right? Deputy CM Ajit Pawar replied, Yes.

In an attempt to come to their rescue, deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis then warns them: The mike is on. Pawar was also seen indicating the same.

Closely listen the murmur of Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde & two DCMs in this short video clip, it shockingly reveals the true intention & seriousness of present rulers for Maratha reservations like sensitive & complex issue. pic.twitter.com/fZT7QjgoyO Sudhir Suryawanshi (@ss_suryawanshi) September 13, 2023

The clip was reportedly captured moments after a press conference post the all-party meeting on the issue on Monday.

According to a report in Times of India, the video drew strong criticism from the opposition and from Maratha groups, who said it revealed the state governments frivolous approach to the quota issue.

Reactions by Shindes Opponents

 Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar, who is leader of opposition in the Maharashtra assembly, was quoted by TOI: This shows the casual and non-serious approach of the government on this issue. It has hurt the sentiments of the Maratha community.

 Is this the sensitivity shown by these people towards the Maratha agitation? Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray asked. The report further quoted him as saying, This is the mentality of the traitors. For the last 1.5 years, we have been listening to the lies. Let alone the Maratha community, can a single citizen of the country trust this government?

 Maratha leader Vinod Patil was quoted: I condemn thisIf the government is not serious, the community will finally show the government its place.

Clarification by Eknath Shinde

On Wednesday, CM Shinde clarified that the clip was doctored and the video was mischievous and aimed at maligning the government.

The chief minister added his government was taking concrete steps and decisions on the quota issue. It is not right to malign the states image by distorting situations and conversations on social media, he said.

#WATCH | On Maratha reservation and Maratha activist Manoj Jarange Patil, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde says, "This government is sensitive about giving reservations to Marathas & is working seriously for it. In this regard, an all-party meeting was called & we got a lot of pic.twitter.com/X8QsANjdsj ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2023

Shinde said that he was talking to his deputies about positively speaking on what transpired at the all-party meeting on the quota issue.

But our conversation was projected wrongly on social media. This is mischievous and creates doubts in peoples minds, he said.

Creating misunderstanding through social media and maligning the governments image was not our states culture, Shinde said, adding, Nobody should try to disturb the positive atmosphere in the state.
Tech giant Google has once again shed hundreds of employees in another round of layoffs. It was on Wednesday, when Google parent Alphabet confirmed laying off employees from its global recruiting team, as per Reuters. The firms decision is suggested to not be a part of a wide-scale cut-off as the company plans to retain a significant majority of its team. However one of the employees who lost her job shared her opinion of working at the organization in a LinkedIn post. According to Money Control, the Seattle-based female employee was a technical recruiter. With four years of experience, she highlighted how working at Google ended up changing her life for the better.

I struggle to make this post but unfortunately today I got laid off at my dream company, she articulated emotionally. For her working at Google was a dream come true. Growing up in a small town and attending a small university, I never dreamed of working at Google. It was too big of a dream for me. But I got the job, and it was the best experience of my life. It was more than I could have ever imagined, she added. While concluding her note, she reached out to professional recruiters explaining she is devastated and heartbroken with the turnabout of the events.

In an official statement made by Courtenay Mencini, the Google spokesperson said it was a tough decision for the organization to cut the size of their recruiting team. She emphasised how the company is aiming to slow its pace of overall hiring but continue to invest in top engineering and technical talent.

Notably, it was in January when Alphabet based in California laid off 12,000 employees thereby reducing its total size of workforce by six percent. In this year, the reduction of the workforce is said to have risen more than threefold in the months of August and July.

In addition to this, the technology conglomerate holding company has followed suit with tech giants including Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta who reportedly downsized their workforce in this quarter. The main reason behind the lay-offs is suggested to be a weak economy and to curb the hiring spree that spiked during the pandemic.
Ryanair has been issued a hefty bill of 30,793 Euros (approximately Rs 27 lakh) after a passenger sustained severe injuries while exiting one of their flights. As per local media, El Periodico, the incident took place in February 2020 when the unnamed woman was travelling from Seville to Alicante in Spain, to meet her newborn grandson. Unfortunately, her journey took a tragic turn as she fell down from the second step and fractured her leg. While leaving the plane, the passenger was carrying luggage and holding the handrail, but she lost her balance and suffered a painful accident. Following the incident, she was immediately rushed to the hospital for surgery.

The injured woman originally demanded 31,230 Euros (approximately Rs 28 lakh) in her lawsuit against the airlines. However, she received a slightly lower amount as her request for compensation related to accommodation and pharmacy expenses was rejected.

Meanwhile, Ryanair aircraft are equipped with retractable stairs, which are designed to reduce costs, as they eliminate the requirement for an airport to provide mobile stairs for boarding and deplaning. During the case hearing, the judge at the Commercial Court of Seville acknowledged that the staircase of the plane involved in the incident was narrow and steep, which led to her fall.

The airline defended itself by asserting that the stairs were in excellent condition and passengers were given clear instructions on how to safely use them before going down. The company presented the testimonies of two crew members who claimed that the passenger was carrying hand luggage and was getting down while holding the handrail.

Despite Ryanairs arguments and testimonies, the court found no evidence that the passenger was responsible for her fall, either intentionally or due to negligence. Instead, they reportedly put responsibility on the airlines for the situations that led to the accident.

Earlier this month, climate protesters targeted Ryanair CEO Michael OLeary during a press briefing in Brussels. As per BBC, the protesters smashed Michael with two cream pies just as he was preparing to address the media about a petition he was presenting to Ursula Von Der Leyen, the President of the European Commission.

As he was about to speak, two protesters unexpectedly hit him in the face. One of the protesters welcomed him to Belgium and said, Stop the pollution of the fu****g planes, as they carried out the attack. In an unexpected twist, Michael responded with humour, as he complimented the cream pies and called them delicious.
A University of Nebraska research team will seek to develop a first-of-its-kind treatment aimed at protecting U.S. troops from the effects of acute radiation syndrome.

Researchers from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the University of Nebraska Medical Center won a $24.5 million grant from the Defense Health Agency to do the work.

The grant  the third from the Defense Health Agency to Nebraska researchers  was made to the National Strategic Research Institute, NU and U.S. Strategic Command's University Affiliated Research Center.

It is also the largest single-project grant award in NSRI's history.

Acute radiation syndrome (ARS) is caused by high levels of radiation spread by either a dirty bomb terrorist attack, nuclear accident or the deployment of a nuclear weapon, the university said.

David Berkowitz, a UNL professor of chemistry and co-principal investigator on the project, said researchers will look at both prevention and mitigation strategies.

"It is really a challenging space scientifically, but I think that is why our team has been so successful  we have a passion for the purpose of this work," Berkowitz said in a news release. "We bring a truly interdisciplinary approach to the science, leveraging the power of the UNL and UNMC collaboration."

Other researchers include: Yashpal Chhonker, UNMC research assistant professor; Patrick Dussault, UNL professor; Chittibabu Guda, UNMC professor; Tomas Helikar, UNL professor; DJ Murry, UNMC professor; Rebecca Oberley-Deegan, UNMC professor; Massimiliano Pierobon, UNL associate professor; and Robert Powers, UNL professor.

The project is part of the Nebraska Drug Discovery and Development Pipeline, which seeks to connect all four NU campuses in developing therapeutics for conditions that otherwise do not attract much research funding.

UNMC Vice Chancellor for Research Ken Bayles called the acute radiation syndrome project "a cornerstone" of the drug development pipeline.

"It has demonstrated our capability to take specific chemical entities from the conceptual phase to pre-investigational new drug status and, ultimately, to the (Food and Drug Administration)," Bayles said. "It provides proof-of-concept that the ND3P can be leveraged to carry important drug candidates across the 'valley of death,' therefore, serving as an alternate path toward FDA approval."

The grant announcement was lauded by NU President Ted Carter, who said it signaled Nebraska was playing a lead role in this type of work, and UNMC Chancellor Jeff Gold, who said it showed the strength of the university's interdisciplinary work.

"This is an example of the national impact that is possible when the University of Nebraska system's top investigators collaborate across the individual institutions," Gold said.

Photos: Historic UNL buildings University of Nebraska-Lincoln buildings; Architectural Hall UNL CBA building UNL Temple Building UNL Morrill Hall University of Nebraska-Lincoln buildings; Architectural Hall University of Nebraska-Lincoln buildings; Architectural Hall UNL Architecture Hall Cather Hall, Pound Hall Cather Hall, Pound Hall Teachers College Brace Laboratory Brace Hall University of Nebraska astronomical observatory
Just four days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau met in New Delhi, Khalistani terror groups announced yet another referendum in Canada, revealing the countrys open support to the extremists.

The group threatened Indian High Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Verma and blamed him for the killing of pro-Khalistani activist Hardeep Nijjar. Nijjar was exiting the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, Vancouver, when he was fatally attacked by unidentified assailants on June 19 this year.

The terror group also thanked Trudeau for defending Canadian Sikhs, raising questions over the governments backing to the extremists despite India raising concerns at all levels.

To make matters worse, recently, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre  while interacting with the media at the Punjabi Press Club BC on the question of Modi governments push to ban Khalistan referendum in Canada  said: If you believe in the Khalistani cause, you have the freedom to express yourself, just like Quebec separatists have the freedom to express themselves in Canada. We even let them have seats in the House of Commons.

At the recent G20 Summit, PM Modi conveyed strong concerns about protests in Canada against India to Trudeau, according a statement by India.

They are promoting secessionism and inciting violence against Indian diplomats, damaging diplomatic premises and threatening the Indian community in Canada and their places of worship, the Indian statement said.

Relations between India and Canada remain tense, and Ottawa this month paused talks on a proposed trade treaty with India, just three months after the two nations said they aimed to seal an initial agreement this year. Modi, who held bilateral meetings with many world leaders during the G20 summit, did not hold one with Trudeau.
China is targeting top British officials to access secrets, the government in London said on Thursday, as it responded to criticisms about its policies towards the Asian superpower.

Parliaments Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) in a July report called the UK governments approach to tackling Chinese espionage completely inadequate and lacking coordination.

The official government response came just days after revelations that a parliamentary researcher was arrested earlier this year on suspicion of spying for China, prompting a denial from Beijing.

The domestic intelligence service MI5 also warned the ruling Conservative party that two would-be MPs could be Chinese spies.

The government recognises that Chinese recruitment schemes have tried to headhunt British and allied nationals in key positions and with sensitive knowledge and experience, including from government, military, industry and wider society, it said in a 48-page response.

It accepted there is more work to be done to tighten safeguards, particularly against the targeting of current and former civil servants, it added.

In a written statement to parliament accompanying the governments response, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called China an epoch-defining challenge to the international order.

He defended his policies, which involve pushing for pragmatic engagement with Beijing, particularly on global issues such as tackling climate change and health crises.

Some within his own party want him to characterise China as a systemic threat to the UK, because of alleged rights abuses against the Uyghur minority and a crackdown on freedoms in Hong Kong.

Sunak said the ISC criticisms pre-dated more recent updates to policy, including banning tech firm Huawei from the UK 5G network and Chinese involved in civil nuclear programmes.

We are not complacent, and we are keenly aware that there is more to do, he wrote.

But Julian Lewis, the chairman of the ISC, which oversees UK intelligence agencies, said it was misleading to imply that our findings are outdated.

Until two months before publication, we monitored all relevant developments and noted them throughout the Report, he added.

This was not difficult to do given the glacial pace at which the Governments China policy developed.
The European Parliament voted on Thursday to back a motion calling for those paying for prostitution to face criminal prosecution.

The motion is non-binding, but comes at a time when several EU member states are reconsidering their laws on prostitution, which vary wildly around the bloc.

It urges EU countries to make it a crime to solicit, accept or obtain a sexual act from a person in exchange for remuneration, the promise of remuneration, the provision of a benefit in kind or the promise of such a benefit.

The motion generated fierce debate and was only passed by 234 votes to 175, with all the main party groupings of right and left split on the issue and MEPs voting as they wished.

Some EU countries such as Croatia and Lithuania ban prostitution and have criminal penalties for sex workers. Some  notably Germany, Austria and the Netherlands  have legalised and regulated it.

Some others  including Sweden, France and Ireland  have sought to switch the criminal responsibility for sex work onto the clients in the transaction.

It is this course that the MEPs voted to back.

German socialist MEP Maria Noichl, who steered the motion through parliament, said it gave voice to people who have traditionally been overlooked, marginalised and stigmatised in our societies.

And it highlights the way forward: create exit programmes and alternatives, eradicate poverty and social exclusion, dismantle stereotypes and inequalities, and reduce demand by tackling the buyers.

But other MEPs, including Dutch liberal Sophie in t Veld, were unconvinced,

Very sad that a majority  voted a resolution that was purely ideology driven, ignoring all evidence and the opinion of the people concerned, she posted on social media.

It will do nothing to protect the rights and safety of sex workers.

In support of her case, In t Veld shared a statement from the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) one of a coalition of 13 rights groups opposed to the criminalisation of any part of sex work.

The groups, which include Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, had urged parliament to reject the report underpinning Thursdays motion.

The group argues criminalisation does not protect the rights of women and others engaged in sex work for manifold reasons, and does not help address the very serious issue of human trafficking and forced labour.

It calls for sex workers human rights to be respected and for them to be involved in decision-making about their industry, warning that punishing clients will force abuses and danger under societys radar.

The European Court of Human Rights has agreed to study a suit lodged by 260 sex workers against Frances 2016 law criminalising clients. It is due to rule on the case in the coming months.
The United States on Wednesday approved a $5 billion sale to South Korea of F-35s, top-of-the-line fighter-jets with stealth capacity, as tensions soar with North Korea.

The State Department informed Congress that it had given the green light to the sale of 25 of the aircraft made by Lockheed Martin as well as engines and related equipment.

The sale will improve the Republic of Koreas capability to meet current and future threats by providing credible defense capability to deter aggression in the region and ensure interoperability with US forces, a State Department statement said.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region, it said.

South Korea has operated F-35s since 2018. The United States only approves sale of the jets to its closest partners, with Turkey booted from the F-35 program after a major purchase from Russia of a missile defense system.

The sale comes as tensions keep spiraling with North Korea, which carried out its latest missile tests just as leader Kim Jong Un visited Russia to discuss greater weapons cooperation with President Vladimir Putin.

The United States has stepped up three-way cooperation with Japan and South Korea, allies that are home to US troops but were frequently at odds over historical disputes until overtures by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol.

At a summit last month at the Camp David presidential resort near Washington, President Joe Biden, Yoon and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida promised to work more closely together on North Korea and other challenges.
Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), took a jibe at the Pakistan President Arif Alvi and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) saying that one party can declare election dates while the other parties are still in the dark.

His comments came shortly after President Alvi said the polls in Pakistan will be held on November 6, disregarding the Election Commission of Pakistans delimitation schedule.

The PTI has been demanding that the elections be held following the directions laid down by the Constitution of Pakistan.

Since the dissolution of the National Assembly was premature, the elections must be held within 90 days, according to the Constitution of Pakistan. In normal cases, when the assembly completes its tenure elections are held in 60 days. The ECP said the election could be held in the later part of January 2024.

Not me, the chief election commissioner, or anyone knows when the polls would be held but this party knows that. All parties will have to sit together to take the country out of crises, Bilawal said at a rally held in Muzaffargarh on Wednesday.

The PPP chairman said that PTI cannot be brought to the table under a new Charter of Democracy like it was done earlier because the Pakistan Democratic Coalition (PDM) did not agree to one.

As far as the PTI is concerned, those who were involved in the May 9 attacks, it is very difficult for us to hold talks with them. An incompetent and ineligible prime minister was imposed due to which the country had to face a crisis at the economic and foreign level, Bilawal said.

The PPP is holding a meeting of its central executive committee (CEC) on elections on Thursday.

The elections in Pakistan have been stalled despite the premature dissolution of the National Assembly as well as the Sindh and Balochistan provincial assemblies due to the 7th Population and Housing Census 2023 which was unanimously approved by the members of the PDM coalition.

If the ECP wants to hold the polls on the basis of the rules laid down by the Constitution, then seats of the National Assembly to each province and the federal capital must be allocated on the basis of population as per the new census.

The ECP last month said it would hold elections late January.
After India strongly reacted and demanded a probe into the case where a cop was heard joking with colleagues and mocking the death of an Indian student in USs Seattle, Biden administration has assured the Indian government of a quick investigation.

Jaahnavi Kandula, 23, was killed after a police vehicle hit her in Seattle, United States. Massive outrage sparked after a purported bodycam video in which a police officer is heard joking and laughing about Kandulas death went viral.

The Consulate General of India in San Francisco on Wednesday termed the incident and the now viral video of the cops reaction as deeply troubling.

In a post on social media site X, the Indian Mission in San Francisco wrote: Recent reports, including in media of the handling of Ms Jaahnavi Kandulas death in a road accident in Seattle in January are deeply troubling. We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle & Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington DC.

.. for a thorough investigation & action against those involved in this tragic case.The Consulate & Embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all concerned authorities.@IndianEmbassyUS @MEAIndia India in SF (@CGISFO) September 13, 2023

The Indian mission in its post mentioned that it has asked the authorities for a thorough investigation and action against those involved in this tragic case. The Consulate and Embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all authorities concerned, added the post.

Also Read: Had Limited Value: Seattle Police Officer Jokes After Indian Students Death | WATCH

From Andhra Pradesh, Jaahnavi Kandula, was a student of Northeastern University campus in South Lake Union. She was walking near Dexter Avenue North and Thomas Street when the police vehicle hit her.

India-origin woman's death in Seattle was mocked by cops; video recoding the incident from January has now gone viralActivist @abhasinghlawyer with her views | @ridhimb #Racism #Seattle #US pic.twitter.com/0TMeymcMy8  News18 (@CNNnews18) September 13, 2023

At present, an investigation is underway by a city oversight agency after a body-worn camera recorded a conversation between two leaders of the Seattle Police Department union, following the tragic incident.

The Viral Video

During the conversation, an officer is heard saying that the girls life was of limited value and that the city should write a check.

According to a report in Associated Press, Daniel Auderer, who is the vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, responded to the January 23 crash scene where another officer, Kevin Dave, struck and killed Jaahnavi Kandula, 23, in a crosswalk. Dave was driving 74 mph (119 kmph) on the way to an overdose call, and Auderer, a drug recognition expert, was assigned to evaluate whether Dave was impaired, The Seattle Times reported.

Afterward, Auderer left his body-worn camera on as he called guild President Mike Solan to report what happened. In a recording released by the police department Monday, Auderer laughs and suggests that Kandulas life had limited value and the city should just write a check.

Biden Admin Assures Investigation

Addressing Indias reaction, United States Biden administration has assured the Indian government of a quick investigation into the death of Jaahnavi Kandula in Seattle. The US government swung into action after Indias Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, strongly raised the issue at the highest level in Washington and sought prompt action on the killing of Kandula.

In a letter to the Kandula family, Seattle City Mayor Bruce Harrell said that the comments made by one person do not reflect the feelings of the city or the communities that call it home. We recognise that Jaahnavis death is a loss for our whole community the loss of a young woman who had so much life ahead of her to do amazing things and share that joy with loved ones, Harrell said in his communication to the Kandula family.

Indian Consul General in San Francisco Ashok Mandula has been in constant touch with the officials from Seattle City and Washington State on this issue.
A local official in Libya said that as many as 20,000 people are feared to have died in floods. Speaking to Saudi Arabian news agency Al Arabiya the mayor of the port city Derna said he estimated that 18,000 to 20,000 died when two dams burst. This released a tsunami of water and killed people while they were asleep.

Eastern Libya has been wrecked by floods caused due to bursting of two dams and heavy rainfall brought about by Storm Daniel. Derna, the worst-affected city, is home to over 100,000 people.

A report by the BBC said that there are unrecovered bodies under the rubble or in the sea which increases the risk of disease. Libya has requested international aid to mitigate the crisis.

The report also cited rescuers calling for body bags signalling the magnitude of the death and devastation caused by the floods. The Turkish Red Crescent which is carrying out rescue activities in the nation torn by conflict said the damage makes it look like the port city has been hit by an earthquake.

The water now has stopped and what is left is only the rubble, and the people who were taken by the flood under the water, a resident of the city told the BBC.

Rescue teams from Egypt, Turkey and Qatar have arrived and are continuing with the rescue efforts.

Usama Al Husadi, a 52-year-old driver, speaking to news agency Reuters said that he could not find his wife and five children after searching everywhere.

At least 50 members from my fathers family missing and dead, Al Husadi told the news agency. Another resident of the city, a labourer, said he lost 15 family members and nine friends.

All were swept away by the valley into the sea. May God have mercy upon them and grant them heaven, the man said.

The BBC in its report said leaders of Libyas Tripoli-based administration have called for an inquiry into the collapse of two dams that led to the deadly floods. Libya is currently ruled by two factions  one based in the east, and one in the west in the capital Tripoli. Both sides have signed a ceasefire agreement but skirmishes continue.

A Government of National Unity was formed in Tripoli with Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh as the internationally-recognised prime minister in 2021 but the faction on the eastern side also formed a similar setup named  Government of National Stability.

The international community has urged both factions to work together to help people and bring aid to isolated Derna.
Taiwan foreign minister Joseph Wu told CEO of social media site X, formerly known as Twitter, Elon Musk, that Taiwan is not for sale. Wus comments were a reaction to Elon Musk asserting that Taiwan was an integral part of China during the All-In Summit in Los Angeles.

https://x.com/MOFA_Taiwan/status/1701973180666053017?s=20

The remarks also come amid Taiwan detecting dozens of Chinese warplanes and 10 navy ships around the nation-state, which China has vowed to reunify with the mainland, if needed by force.

(Beijings) policy has been to reunite Taiwan with China. From their standpoint, maybe it is analogous to Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China mostly because the US Pacific Fleet has stopped any sort of reunification effort by force, Musk said, according to the Guardian.

In response, Wu took to X, and in a post told Musk to ask China to lift its social media ban and allow Chinese citizens to access X. China blocks X, along with other major western social media like Facebook.

Wu also criticised Musk for denting Ukraines counteroffensive mission by refusing their request to activate his Starlink satellite network in Crimeas port city of Sevastopol in 2022 for the Ukrainian Army whilst it was planning an attack on the Russian fleet there. Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off @Starlink to thwart Ukraines counter strike against Russia, Wu said.

Listen up, Taiwan is not part of the PRC and certainly not for sale! Wu said.

Musk has been riling Taiwanese leaders since last year and said that the Taiwanese government could hand over some control of Taiwan to Beijing.

China has also ramped up military pressure on Taiwan. Taiwans defence ministry said in a statement that 68 Chinese aircraft and 10 naval vessels were detected near the island between Wednesday morning and Thursday morning, according to news agency AFP.

Taipei had already said some of those planes and warships were heading to an unspecified area of the Western Pacific to conduct joint sea and air training with Chinas Shandong aircraft carrier, the news report said.

Authorities in Taipei said the Shandong, one of two operational aircraft carriers in the Chinese fleet, was detected 110 kilometres southeast of Taiwan heading into the Western Pacific.
Pakistani citizens praised India for successfully hosting the 18th G20 Leaders Summit in New Delhi last week. Heads of states from over 30 countries and delegates of leading international organisations convened at the Bharat Mandapam at Delhis Pragati Maidan.

https://x.com/ANI/status/1702148189179322672?s=20

World leaders discussed crucial issues impacting the planet and adopted the New Delhi Declaration by consensus. Pakistanis, according to a report by ANI, felt that India showcased its growth and achievements by hosting the G20 Summit and also paved the way for economic development through the initiatives announced during the summit.

https://x.com/ANI/status/1702148981453930613?s=20

When heads of the top 20 countries visit a country, it is an honour for that nation. The Indian economy will derive many benefits out of it, a Karachi resident said.

https://x.com/ANI/status/1702149417376338207?s=20

The neighbours were also conscious of their own economic condition and concerned how Pakistan will lift itself from the several crises that mire it. Pakistan is going through an economic crisis coupled with a political crisis.

https://x.com/ANI/status/1702151042119721124?s=20

A wave of terrorism has also impacted lives and livelihoods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region.

At a time when we are desperately trying to lift our economy from the dumps, India played host to leaders of the 20 major economies of the world. The successful conduct of the global event would have filled the Indians with pride, another resident said, according to news outlet ANI.

However, a Lahore resident regretted that Bangladesh was invited and felt Pakistan should have at least been invited.

Another resident said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosting several world leaders and his pictures with each one of them allowed India to showcase its achievements as well as potential to the world.

We all saw pictures from India, of Modi posing with world leaders. They were successful in showcasing India in a positive light before a global audience, the resident said.

The resident also pointed out that Saudi Arabian Prime Minister Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud chose to prioritise G20 over his Pakistan visit and stayed there for his state visit after the end of G20.

The Shehzada of Saudi Arabia (Crown Prince Salman) didnt come here (to Pakistan) but went to India for the G20 Summit. This shows the growing importance of India for the world. It was also surprising that Bangladesh was invited but Pakistan wasnt, the resident said.
Russian President Vladimir Putin accepted an invitation to visit North Korea, the state-run KCNA reported on Thursday as strongman Kim Jong Un ended his rare trip to Russia.

Both leaders met at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Amur, in Russias far eastern region, where Putin took Kim Jong Un on a tour, showing him launch facilities for the Angara and Soyuz-2 space rocket launchers before holding a two-hour long summit.

After the talks, both leaders exchanged pleasantries and presided over a dinner host Putin held in honour of the North Korean leader. Our relations were established back in Koreas fight for freedom in 1945, when Soviet and Korean soldiers fought side by side against Japanese militarists, Putin said.

A toast to the future strengthening of cooperation and friendship between our countries, Putin said beside a smiling Kim Jong Un.

Kim Jong Un, who, according to experts, was in Russia to help Putin procure 122-millimetre rockets used by Soviet-era BM-21 Grad multiple launchers, anti-tank weapons and howitzers from the 1950s and 1960s in return of Russian help in putting a military spy satellite into orbit.

We talked about the fact that if the North Korean side wishes, a North Korean cosmonaut can be trained and sent into space, the Kremlin said.

Kim Jong Un also wished Putin success in his so-called military operation in Ukraine. We are confident that the Russian army and people will win a great victory in the just fight to punish evil groups who pursue hegemony, expansion, and ambition, Kim Jong Un said.

Amidst all of this, Chinese President Xi Jinping could be left unimpressed.

But Beijing may not be impressed with Moscow as Putin ventures into easternmost regions of Asia, an area China considers to be under its sphere of influence. The talks between Putin and Kim Jong Un may have also included food aid as North Koreas several regions face starvation due to sanctions as well as policy failure.

China will be hardly too happy about Russia entering into what Chinese consider their monopoly territory. Beijing would be worried about regional destabilisation caused by any transfer of Russian military technology to Pyongyang, Vladimir Tikhonov, professor of Korean studies at the University of Oslo, told news outlet AFP.

President Xi Jinping said in April Beijing would push for a higher stage of relations with Pyongyang and foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning also said that the relationship between North Korea and Russia should be seen in isolation.

The visit of the North Korean leader to Russia is an arrangement between the two countries and pertains to relations between North Korea and Russia. At present, China-North Korea relations are developing well, Mao Ning said.

China has invited Venezuelas Nicolas Maduro, formerly a pariah in the global community, and Cambodias new Prime Minister, General Hun Manet (who took over reigns from his strongman father, Hun Sen), to Beijing, as both Moscow and Beijing engage in a race of courting leaders whose countries face sanctions and who themselves face international criticism for their domestic policies.
Binance US, the American subsidiary of the well-known cryptocurrency exchange, is experiencing a series of high-profile departures.

Today, Sidney Majalya, the Chief Risk Officer, and Krishna Juvvadi, the head of legal, resigned according to a report by Wall Street Journal. Their exits followed the recent resignation of Brian Shroder, the firms President and CEO.

These departures add weight to speculations about a potential ripple effect of high-level exits at the firm.

The SECs Role in Recent Binance US Staff Exits

Both departures come amid increasing scrutiny from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC filed a lawsuit against Binance US and its CEO earlier this year, accusing the company of running an unauthorized trading platform in the United States.

Juvvadi was one of the main liaisons between Binance US and the SEC and joined the company in May 2022. Majalya took on the role of CRO in December 2021.

Binance US commented on the departures, stating, The SECs aggressive attempts to cripple our industry and the resulting impacts on our business have real-world consequences for American jobs and innovation, and this is an unfortunate example of that.

As of the time this article was published, neither Juvvadi nor Majalya have made public statements about their reasons for leaving Binance US.

Mounting Regulatory Hurdles for Binance

Binance and its U.S. subsidiary, along with co-founder Changpeng CZ Zhao, are facing legal action from regulatory bodies such as the SEC and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The allegations range from operating without proper authorization to offering unregistered securities and violating commodities laws. Due to these challenges, Binance US temporarily halted all dollar withdrawals and deposits on June 9.

Internationally, Binance is also under increased scrutiny. In July, The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) inspected Binances Australian offices, focusing on its now-shut-down local derivatives operations.

This follows the revocation of Binance Australias derivatives license in April. In May, Binance suspended PayID AUD deposits due to issues with a third-party payment provider. Regulatory bodies in Europe, such as Belgiums FSMA and Germanys Bafin, have also added to the companys challenges. In June, FSMA ordered Binance to cease all offers of virtual currency services in Belgium, while Bafin Bafin rejected Binances cryptocurrency custody license application in July.

Binance US Market Share Takes a Hit

Binance is currently the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the world with a daily trading volume of close to $4.6 billion. For context, the second-largest exchange, Coinbase, reported a daily volume of $890 million.

However, Binance US has seen its market share plummet, particularly in the United States. Data from Reuters shows that its U.S. market share dropped from over 22% in April to just around 0.9% as of June 26. This is further underscored by a global market share drop from 2.39% to just 0.6%.

The unfolding events at Binance US, marked by leadership exits and escalating regulatory scrutiny, place the company at a pivotal crossroads. Whether Binance US can adapt to the evolving regulatory landscape and regain its lost market share will be a significant indicator of its future viability.

As it stands, the challenges are stacking up on multiple fronts, both domestically and internationally. Its a situation that undoubtedly has stakeholders watching closely.
Vladimir Putin and Kim Jung Un gifted each other rifles when they met in Far Eastern Russia, the Kremlin said on Thursday, confirming the isolated Russian leader will visit North Korea as Moscow woos another pariah state.

The Russian president, who has sought to strengthen alliances with other hardline leaders ostracised by the West, met with Kim on Wednesday amid speculation they would agree on an arms deal.

Russia is eager for ammunition to continue fighting in Ukraine, while North Korea wants Moscows help to develop its missile programme.

Putin gave (Kim) a rifle from our production of the highest quality. In return, he also received a North Korean-made rifle, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Putin also gifted the North Korean leader a glove from a space suit that has been to space several times.

Kim, who seldom leaves his country, held talks with Putin at the Vostochny cosmodrome. The Kremlin said his visit to Russias Far East would last a few more days.

Moscow also confirmed that Putin gratefully accepted Kims invitation to visit Pyongyang, which North Korean state television earlier announced.

Peskov said Moscow will first quickly prepare to send Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to Pyongyang, with his trip expected in October, before a Putin visit can be arranged.

It would be Putins second trip to the worlds most reclusive state, with which Russia shares a short border.

He visited Pyongyang in July 2000 to meet Kims father Kim Jong-il, just months after being elected to the presidency.

More than two decades later, Russia is facing unprecedented isolation from the West over Moscows Ukraine offensive, with Putin seeking to boost Soviet-era alliances.

 We are watching 

In Pyongyang, North Koreas Central News Agency praised Kims summit with Putin, saying the pair held historic talks.

Kims visit to Russia is his first foreign trip since the Covid-19 pandemic broke out.

Both countries are under a raft of sanctions, and Kims visit has sparked widespread concern over illicit arms agreements.

After the summit, Putin told reporters that he saw possibilities for military cooperation.

The head of South Koreas ruling party slammed what he called a devils deal while Japan warned against any violations of UN bans on arms deals with the North after the Putin-Kim summit.

We are watching (the talks) with concerns including the possibility that it could lead to violations of the Security Councils ban on all arms-related material transactions with North Korea, Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa told reporters.

After waving goodbye to Kim at the Vostochny cosmodrome, Putin told Russian television that Kim would oversee a display of Russian warships in the far eastern city of Vladivostok to demonstrate the capabilities of the Pacific Fleet.

He also said Kim will visit a university in Vladivostok. Colleges in Russias Far East have historically accepted North Korean students.

Kim crossed into Russia in his bulletproof train.

 Blood alliance 

Both leaders vowed on Wednesday to strengthen their relationship, heavily referencing the two countries 20th century ties.

We will always be with Russia, Kim said.

An old friend is better than two new ones, Putin said, quoting a Russian proverb and referencing the Soviet Unions role in the Korean War.

Western countries warned Moscow and Pyongyang against striking an arms deal as the conflict in Ukraine grinds on.

I think Russia has already tested the North Korean shells in battlefields and is now ready to expand its use going forward, said Kim Jong-dae, a former South Korean MP and visiting scholar at the Yonsei Institute for North Korean Studies.

He said the summit signals a seismic change in Northeast Asian geopolitics, adding that a stronger alliance between North Korea, Russia and China could become a destabilising force in the region.

Kim was accompanied by a military-heavy entourage, with top Russian military officials also involved in the talks.

North Korea-Russia relations can be said to have completely returned to the level of blood alliance during the Cold War, Cheong Seong-chang, researcher at the Sejong Institute, told AFP.

He said that while there have been summits between the two countries before, there has never been a time when North Korea brought in almost all of its key military officials like the one happening right now.
UK police on Wednesday arrested three British-Pakistani relatives of a 10-year-old girl on suspicion of her murder, moments after the trio landed back in Britain following a month on the run in Pakistan.

Sara Sharifs body was discovered at the familys home near Woking, southeast England, on August 10. A post-mortem examination revealed she had sustained multiple and extensive injuries over a sustained period.

Police had said Urfan Sharif, 41, his partner Beinash Batool, 29, and his brother Faisal Malik, 28, fled to Pakistan to take refuge with relatives before Saras body was found, sparking an international manhunt.

This evening three people were arrested in connection with this investigation at Gatwick Airport, Surrey Police detective superintendent Mark Chapman said in a televised statement.

Two men, aged 41 years and 28 years, and a woman aged 29 years were arrested on suspicion of murder after disembarking a flight from Dubai, he added, without naming the trio in line with UK police practice.

The suspects flew from Pakistan to Britain via the gulf hub.

They are currently in custody and will be interviewed in due course.

A Pakistan police spokesman had earlier said that Sharif, Batool and Malik had voluntarily returned to Britain with the prior knowledge of authorities.

I confirm that they have not been arrested but they left voluntarily, Raja Haq Nawaz, a lawyer for Urfan Sharifs father, also told AFP.

An incident

Earlier this month, Sharif and Batool appeared in a video distributed to media, in which Batool said they were willing to cooperate with UK authorities and fight our case in court.

All of our family members have gone into hiding as everyone is scared for their safety, she said, alleging malpractice by the Pakistan police hunting them.

In the two-and-a-half-minute low-quality video there was little mention of Saras death, which Batool called an incident.

Surrey Police have said the fugitive trio were thought to have flown to Islamabad on August 9, the day before Sara was discovered at the familys home in the village of Horsell, just outside Woking.

An early morning emergency call alerting officers to Saras death was made from Pakistan by a man identifying himself as the father, detectives said.

The house was otherwise empty, and the manhunt continued with Interpol and Britains foreign ministry coordinating with authorities in Pakistan.

Five of her purported siblings, aged between one and 13 and brought to Pakistan with the adults, were discovered at the home of Urfan Sharifs father on Monday.

A magistrate placed the children into state protective services on Tuesday.

Difficult time

Surrey Police have said they are working with other local and international authorities to secure the childrens safe return.

But it is unclear where they will ultimately be sent or for how long they may be kept in the custody of Pakistans child protection bureau.

Saras Polish mother, Olga Sharif, had been informed of the arrests and is being supported by specialist officers, the UK force also noted.

Our thoughts remain with her and those affected by Saras death at this very difficult time, Chapman said.

Olga Sharif has said in an interview that she could barely recognise her daughters small, battered body when she identified her at the mortuary last month.

She told Polish television one of her cheeks was swollen and the other side of her face was bruised.

Olga and Urfan separated in 2015, and Sara and her older brother had lived with their mother until a family court determined in 2019 that they should reside with their father, according to UK media.

Sara had been removed from primary school in April to be homeschooled by her stepmother and was known to the local councils social services department, the British reports said.
The US asked Pakistan to hold free, fair and timely elections, and to respect human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law, as uncertainty grew over the date of conducting the polls in the cash-strapped country.

The remarks by US State Department Spokesperson Mathew Miller came in response to a question on President Arif Alvis letter to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in which he suggested that polls should be held no later than November 6.

Pakistans National Assembly was dissolved on August 9. The elections in the country should be held within the stipulated time of 90 days after the dissolution of the National Assembly.

Alvi appointed Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar as caretaker prime minister in mid-August to run the country until fresh elections.

However, the ECP decided to conduct a fresh delimitation of Constituencies on the basis of the new census, delaying the general elections.

As we do with countries around the world, we urge Pakistan to hold free, fair and timely elections, and to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms and the rule of law, Miller stated.

He also urged Pakistani authorities to move forward with the electoral process in a manner consistent with Pakistans laws.

Alvis missive was the fourth such letter written by the president to Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja regarding elections in the country.

In previous letters, the president had suggested dates for elections to the provincial assemblies of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

ECP had last month assured the political parties that the general elections would be held by January end or mid-February, allaying fears about the fate of the polls in the cash-strapped nation.

When asked about Pak-US ties, Miller said: Pakistan is an important partner, and we greatly value the relationship between our countries both between our two governments and the people-to-people connections.

He was also asked about the tensions at the Torkham border between Pakistan and Afghanistan which started last week after a gun battle erupted between the two border forces.

Obviously, we would encourage those two governments to work together to resolve that issue, Miller said.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said his country could send its first astronauts to the Moon in a Chinese spacecraft, hailing on Thursday a scientific cooperation agreement he reached with President Xi Jinping.

Maduro, whose oil-rich country is in a profound economic crisis, has been in China since last week. In Beijing on Wednesday, he met with Xi, with the pair agreeing to upgrade ties between their governments.

Maduro announced during his meeting with Xi on Wednesday that the two countries had agreed to train young Venezuelan astronauts in China, with plans to eventually send them to the Moon.

A special task team on scientific, technological, industrial and aerospace cooperation will sooner rather than later (send) the first Venezuelan man and woman to the moon in a Chinese spacecraft, Maduro said.

Very soon, Venezuelan youth will come here to prepare as astronauts in Chinese schools, he said.

China is pursuing plans to send a crewed mission to the Moon by 2030 and build a base there.

The worlds second-largest economy has invested billions of dollars in its military-run space programme in a push to catch up with the United States and Russia.

China maintains close relations with the internationally isolated Maduro government and is one of Venezuelas main creditors.

The Latin American countrys GDP fell 80 percent in a decade due to the effect of its economic crisis, with citizens struggling to access basic necessities and millions having fled the country.

Airtight partnership

In a video posted Thursday on social media, Maduro said: Where were heading is for the Moon, to a splendid era for China and Venezuela.

He said the two countries have declared the relationship as an airtight and strategic partnership for all times.

And speaking at a press conference Thursday as he wrapped up the trip, Maduro said China and Venezuela had entered a splendid stage in economic, cultural, educational, civilisational, scientific achievements.

We had never achieved a document of the depth, strategic importance and consensus of this document, Maduro said.

He also showed off two gifts from Xi, including a Huawei folding mobile phone.

It is the most secure phone, impossible to break into, he said.

The two sides said in an agreement signed on Wednesday they are close friends of mutual trust, good partners of common development, and dear partners of strategic collaboration.

It also reiterated Venezuelas interest in joining the BRICS group of major emerging economies that held its most recent summit in August in Johannesburg.

The original grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa announced at that summit its admission of six new countries, including Argentina.

Venezuela can contribute significant strengths to the groups energy agenda, as a reliable supplier and the country with the largest proven oil reserves and the fourth-largest natural gas reserve worldwide, Wednesdays agreement said.
Monetary Authority of Singapore Bans 3AC Founders From Engaging in Financial Markets

Source: Adobe/Christophe Fouquin

Singapores central bank, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), has barred the founders of Three Arrows Capital, Zhu Su and Kyle Livingston Davies from participating in financial markets within the city-state for a period of nine years.

Three Arrows Capital was among the first top cryptocurrency firms to succumb to insolvency after the dramatic crash of Luna and TerraUSD cryptocurrencies in May. 3AC filed for bankruptcy in late June in the British Virgin Islands.

The central bank of Singapore prohibited Zhu Su and Kyle Davies from engaging in any regulating activity or managing any capital market services forms in Singapore effective from 13 September 2023.

3AC Founders Provided False Information to MAS

MAS cited several breaches on the part of 3AC founders, including providing false information to MAS, failing to notify MAS about changes in directorship and shareholdings, and exceeding the allowable assets under management threshold for a registered fund management company.

Furthermore, MAS revealed that 3AC failed to inform the regulatory authority in a timely manner of the employment of Mr. Cheong Jun Yoong Arthur, who was hired as a portfolio manager between August 2020 and September 2021. The breach of SFR regulations raised concerns about transparency within the organization.

In a statement, Loo Siew Yee, MAS Assistant Managing Director, emphasized the importance of robust risk management that must be put in place by senior management of fund managers. She stated:

Senior management of fund managers are required to implement robust risk management measures to protect the interest of investors. MAS takes a serious view of Mr. Zhus and Mr. Davies flagrant disregard of MAS regulatory requirements and dereliction of their directors duties.

As directors of 3AC, Zhu Su and Kyle Livingston Davies were primarily responsible for ensuring the firms compliance with regulatory requirements under the SFA and SFR.

However, the MAS investigation found that they failed in their duties and were directly responsible for 3ACs regulatory breaches.

As reported earlier, Su Zhu and Kyle Davies completed a funding round for their new OPNX exchange earlier this year. Dubais Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority slapped a massive $2.7 million fined against their new exchange, which the duo failed to pay.
Have you ever driven past the same building day after day and wondered what it looks like inside?

Have you ever only seen a space from the street and wondered what lies within?

Maybe the location is closed to the public, or maybe youve just never had a reason to go in.

Now you dont have to.

The Sentinels Inside Look series aims to take readers into the curious places Cumberland County has to offer from the comfort of their living rooms.

Join us every other week for a video and photo gallery of new, or sometimes very old, local places that are just waiting to be explored.

Craighead House

A Newbery award-winning author. An Everglades scholar. National Geographic contributors and falconers.

Each of these was a member of the same nature-loving Craighead family that grew up spending time in the same South Middleton Township summer home.

The story of the Craighead family, however, begins long before the 19th century house that preserves their legacy.

In 1714, the first members of the Scots-Irish family immigrated to the United States and eventually settled in Pennsylvania, according to Craighead House Historian Tom Benjey.

Early Craighead family members were farmers, business owners and ministers, and subsequent generations constructed a cabin along the banks of the Yellow Breeches Creek, close to where the existing Craighead House stands.

The late-Victorian style Craighead House was constructed in 1886 by Charles Craighead and his wife, Agnes, and served as a summer home for the family, who lived in Harrisburg.

Charles and Agnes had five children, and Agnes wanted her son Frank to become a preacher, Benjey said.

However, instances that included dousing his Sunday best in the Yellow Breeches Creek and keeping a pet skunk indicated that Franks life was headed in what Craighead House Committee Corp. Board Secretary Ann Dailey described as a different direction, one that would trickle into future generations.

In 1902 when Frank was about 12 years old, a teacher from the Carlisle Indian Industrial School contracted with him to provide items for her classroom terrarium.

That was the first documentation of a Craighead working as a naturalist, Benjey said.

Frank and his brother, Eugene, graduated from Penn State University and became nationally recognized entomologists, or scientists who study insects. Florida Gov. Reubin Askew named Frank the Scholar of the Everglades in 1976, according to the committee.

While Frank helped kickstart the Craighead familys nature-based work, it is his children, who spent their summers in the Craighead House, who are perhaps the most well known for their contributions.

Thats what we center this building on now ... when they (Franks children) were here in the 1930s for the summertime, Dailey said. They were teenagers.

Franks twin sons, John and Frank Jr., started practicing falconry at the Craighead House when they were 15 years old, Benjey said. The boys also kept raccoons, owls and skunks to care for and study.

At age 19, the twins had their first of many articles published in National Geographic.

Later in life, they led research on grizzly bear conservation at Yellowstone National Park, created a survival course for downed military pilots and wrote the 1968 federal Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

Their sister, Jean Craighead George, wrote more than 100 nature-related childrens books, including Summer of the Falcon, which was set at the Craighead House, My Side of the Mountain and Julie of the Wolves, which received the 1973 Newbery Medal of Honor.

The Craighead House remained in the family throughout the 20th century, but by the early 2000s it had fallen into disrepair.

In 2012, the Craighead House Committee formed and acquired the property.

The committee completed extensive renovations on the home, including rebuilding the front porch, installing a new roof and adding heat and air conditioning.

Work on downstairs flooring, wallpaper and the creation of a museum room remains to be completed, Benjey said.

The first floor features a kitchen with walls that contain 70 years of drawings and paintings by members of the Craighead family and their friends, Dailey said. The committee also has a meeting room on the first floor, and the eventual museum room that will feature artifacts from the Craighead familys history.

Upstairs, Jeans former bedroom and writing desk, where she wrote several books, can be found along with a sleeping porch that overlooks the property.

In 2022, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy moved its Mid-Atlantic Regional Office into the second floor.

While members of the Craighead family no longer live in the house, the space, along with the land around it, continues to be used for nature-related educational programming and presentations.

Photos: An inside look at the Craighead House in South Middleton Township
UPDATE

Sep 14, 2023 12:22 AM CDT

A former CIA software engineer already convicted in the biggest theft of classified information in CIA history was convicted Wednesday on charges of possessing child sexual abuse images, the AP reports. A jury returned its verdict in Manhattan federal court against Joshua Schulte after prosecutors presented proof that Schulte had over 3,000 images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children as young as age 2 hidden in encrypted areas of his home desktop computer. At sentencing scheduled for Jan. 10, Schulte could face decades in prison for Wednesday's conviction along with his conviction last year on charges that he released a trove of CIA secrets through WikiLeaks in 2017. Schulte, 34, has been held behind bars without bail since 2018.

Jun 19, 2018 7:17 AM CDT

A former CIA employee was charged Monday with stealing classified national defense information from the agency that emerged publicly in March 2017, when WikiLeaks began releasing some of the CIA's hacking tools. Joshua Adam Schulte of Manhattan was charged in a 13-count superseding indictment returned by a grand jury, the AP reports. He was expected to be arraigned on the charges Wednesday. According to the indictment, Schulte stole the classified information in 2016 in the Eastern District of Virginia and elsewhere and then transmitted it to an organization that purports to publicly distribute classified, sensitive, and confidential information. The organization wasn't identified in court papers. The indictment also charged Schulte, 29, with the receipt, possession, and transportation of child pornography. Schulte already was detained on the child porn charges.
UPDATE

Sep 14, 2023 10:50 AM CDT

Just days after the body of Sarah Everard, murdered by a police officer now serving a life sentence, was found in Kent, England, in March 2021, mourners were detained at a London vigil in her memory. Now, police there are apologizing for how two protesters in particular were treated, with "substantial damages" to be paid to them, reports Reuters. "I regret that your opportunity to express your grief and anger was curtailed by your arrest and removal," Karen Findlay, commander for the Metropolitan Police, wrote to Patsy Stevenson and Dania Al-Obeid, per the AP. Pics of Stevenson being pinned down by cops during the vigil "became the enduring image of the incident," per Reuters. Stevenson noted after the settlement announcement that it had been "important to push for some form of accountability and justice," per the AP. Al-Obeid's take: "I do not feel protected or safe with any police force."

Mar 14, 2021 7:40 AM CDT

Police clashed with mourners Saturday at a vigil attended by thousands for a woman who was allegedly kidnapped and murdered by one of their own. At a spot in South London's Clapham Common near where 33-year-old Sarah Everard is believed to have been snatched from the roadside while walking home the night of March 3, peaceful mourners were dragged away, and some handcuffed, after police say they were acting in violation of coronavirus regulations, per CNN. Outrage over the show of force comes just days after Wayne Couzens, a London police officer, was arrested in Everard's murderincluding from politicians like Home Secretary Priti Patel, who called footage from the vigil "upsetting" in a tweet.
UPDATE

Sep 14, 2023 10:00 AM CDT

A luxury cruise ship that ran aground in a remote part of Greenland above the Arctic Circle has been freed after three days, reports the AP. A fisheries research vessel came to the rescue earlier than expected and managed to pull the MV Ocean Explorer free at high tide on Thursday. The cruise ship, operated by SunStone Ships, appears to be fine, as do the 206 people aboard. A more thorough inspection of the vessel's bottom will take place at port.

Sep 13, 2023 7:00 PM CDT

For the 206 passengers and crew members aboard the Ocean Explorer, the viewhowever stunningisn't going to change for a while. The cruise ship has run aground in a remote area off the coast of Greenland, and an inspection vessel sent to help isn't expected to arrive before Friday, CNN reports. No injuries or damage have been reported. For the ship and the people on it, "There is no immediate danger to themselves, the vessel, or the surrounding environment," said a statement from Aurora Expeditions, a tour agency that operates the Ocean Explorer. The ship became stuck Monday near Alpefjord in Northeast Greenland National Park, the most northerly national park in the world, per ABC News.
The prosecution in Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's impeachment trial rested its case Wednesday in what media outlets are painting as a surprise move that was preceded by another surprise, the appearancebut failure to testifyof the AG's alleged mistress, a central figure in the case . Paxton is accused of misusing his authority to help one of his donors, a real estate developer who was under FBI investigationand who had hired the woman, Laura Olson, in what the articles of impeachment against Paxton refer to as essentially a bribe. (Much more on the ins and outs of the case against Paxton here .)

The AP explains that Olson "made a sudden appearance" at the trial Wednesday and was called to testify, but that her testimony was then delayed without explanation for hours before Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who is acting as the judge in the trial, said that both sides had agreed Olson would actually not testify. "She is present but has been deemed unavailable to testify" was all the explanation he gave. CBS News explains that prior to his announcement, there had been an issue with the timing of her being called to the stand (a witness is required to receive 24 hours notice) but that issue appeared to have been resolved. The trial adjourned shortly after prosecutors announced they would rest their case; it is scheduled to resume Thursday.

Next up, the defense can call its witnesses; when it rests its case, there will be one hour allotted per side for closing arguments. The case will then go to state Senators, who act as the jury, to deliberate. Former President Trump weighed in on the trial Thursday on Truth Social, the Daily Beast reports. "Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton was easily re-elected last November, but now establishment RINOS are trying to undo that Election with a shameful impeachment of him," he wrote, calling it "a SAD day in the Great State of Texas!" Paxton says he will sit down with Tucker Carlson next week to discuss "the last two weeks in Texas politics." (Read more Ken Paxton stories.)
One of Australia's richest men has apologized after calling for 270,000 job losses to show workers their place. Gurner Group founder and CEO Tim Gurner, a multimillionaire real-estate tycoon, was speaking at the Australian Financial Review's property summit on Tuesday when he said workers have become "arrogant" since the COVID-19 pandemic began and "we've got to kill that attitude" as it's hurting productivity, per the BBC . "Unemployment has to jump 40%-50% in my view," the 41-year-old with a personal net worth of $788 million continued in a clip viewed more than 24 million times on X. As AFR reports, Gurner was essentially calling for unemployment to climb from 3.7% to 5.6%, meaning 270,500 people would lose their jobs.

"We need to see pain in the economy. We need to remind people that they work for the employer, not the other way around," Gurner said. He noted "there's been a systematic change where employees feel the employer is extremely lucky to have them as opposed to the other way" and "we've got to kill that attitude." With "massive layoffs," we've begun to see "less arrogance in the employment market" but more are still needed, said Gurner, who previously garnered controversy in stating that young people can't afford homes because they're "spending $40 a day on smashed avocado and coffees and not working." Australian lawmakers and even US Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez condemned his words.

Labor MP Jerome Laxale said, "These are comments you'd associate with a cartoon supervillain," while Liberal MP Keith Wolahan said they "could not be more out of touch" as "families are working multiple jobs just to stay afloat," per AFR. AOC said it was a "reminder that major CEOs have skyrocketed their own pay so much that the ratio of CEO-to-worker pay is now at some of the highest levels ever recorded." On Thursday, the luxury real-estate developer took to LinkedIn to say he regretted his comments, which "were deeply insensitive to employees, [tradespeople], and families across Australia who are affected by these cost-of-living pressures and job losses." "I sincerely regret that my words did not convey empathy for those in that situation," he added. (Read more workers stories.)
During a hearing on "unidentified anomalous phenomena" or UAPs at Mexico's Congress Tuesday, a self-described "ufologist" brought in what he claimed were the bodies of two aliens. As NPR puts it, "the corpses looked white and like stereotypical depictions of aliensbig head, little body, three fingers." Jaime Maussan testified that they were found in diatomite mines in Peru in 2017 and are an estimated 1,000 years old. The New York Times says the unexpected display "caused jaws to drop and memes to multiply." But, as KSAT reports, similar claims made by Maussan in the past have been "widely debunked," and following Maussan's testimony, researchers he mentioned quickly distanced themselves from it.

Scientists have said in the past that such supposed "alien corpses" are actually mummies, or perhaps manipulated mummies. Maussan, who was under oath at the time, insisted these two were not, and his testimony was followed by that of forensic expert and military doctor Jose de Jesus Zalce Benitez, who explained what scans of the bodies showed (big brains, big eyes "for a wide stereoscopic vision," and no teeth). Also appearing at the hearing was Ryan Graves, a former US Navy fighter pilot who is interested in promoting government awareness of UAPs, such as the videos shown at the hearing of Mexican pilots confused by objects flying quickly around them. Graves was not happy with Maussan's testimony at all, he later explained on X.

"Unfortunately, yesterday's demonstration was a huge step backwards" for government interest in UAPs, he wrote. "My testimony centered on sharing my experience and the UAP reports I hear from commercial and military aircrew through ASA's witness program. I will continue to raise awareness of UAP as an urgent matter of aerospace safety, national security, and science, but I am deeply disappointed by this unsubstantiated stunt." Graves also testified before the United States Congress describing his experience with an unidentified flying object; he says those types of encounters are "grossly underreported." (Read more extraterrestrial life stories.)
A New Yorker upset that the city has been housing homeless migrants on his block has set up a loudspeaker to deliver an unwelcoming message to his new neighbors: "Immigrants are not safe here." The message, recorded in six languages, blares all day from a loudspeaker on Scott Herkert's front lawn on Staten Island, exhorting migrants to "go back" to another part of the city because the community doesn't want them, the AP reports. It urges people brought to a temporary shelter inside a long-vacant Roman Catholic high school not to get off the bus. The message also claims the building has rats and cockroaches. Herkert, a state court system employee, says the new shelter has upended his block's quiet charm and brought toilets and dumpsters to the other side of his fence.

It is one of several ways some people have let shelter residents know they are not welcome. Hundreds of protesters have also held a large rally outside the former school, urging the city to house migrants elsewhere. Employees and residents of the shelter said protesters have cursed at and threatened them, frequently playing loud music late into the night. The women and families placed by the city inside the former Saint John Villa Academy have heard the message loud and clear. "We have to close our eyes and close our ears," said Aminetou El Alewai, a 39-year-old woman from Mauritania who moved into the shelter last week. "We are good people. We are not criminals. We came because of problems in our country."

As thousands of migrants continue to arrive in New York, officials have scrambled to open new emergency shelters, turning to tent facilities, school gyms, and parks to comply with a state law requiring housing for the homeless. Though Staten Island is home to only a small fraction of those shelters, they have generated an outsize share of animosity. The hostile reception coincides with increasingly dire rhetoric from Mayor Eric Adams, who warned last week that the migrant crisis would "destroy" the city. He has insisted that the more than 100,000 who have arrived so far are welcome, but he has said the cost of housing tens of thousands of people could be as much as $12 billion over the next three years.

story continues below

A spokesperson for the mayor's office, Kayla Mamelak, said the administration was "disturbed to learn about the false messages being played outside the St. John's Villa Academy respite site" and police are working to "maintain the peace in the area." Around the corner from Herkert, John Gurriera, a 72-year-old resident of Staten Island, said he was disappointed by the reaction from some of his neighbors, which he described as "not very Christian." "This is New York City," he said. "We all came from someplace else."

(Read more New York City stories.)
Vivek Ramaswamy, predicting that he would "get a lot of pushback," outlined a proposal Wednesday night to fire more than 1.6 million federal workers and shut down agencies including the FBI. "Do we want incremental reform? No," the Republican presidential candidate said, per Reuters . "Or do we want a revolution?" Ramaswamy, speaking at a pro-former President Trump think-tank in Washington, DC, said he would also eliminate the Department of Education; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Food and Nutrition Service; and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, which oversees radioactive materials and nuclear power plant safety.

Ramaswamy said that if elected president, he would reduce the federal payroll by half in his first year in office and by 75% during his first term, the AP reports. With the FBI, he said 20,000 employees would be fired and another 15,000 sent to other agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration. He claimed that despite "myths" about the limits of presidential authority, he would be able to make the changes without the approval of Congress. "We will use executive authority to shut down the deep state," he said.

"Speaking as a CEO, if somebody works for you, and you can't fire them, that means they don't work for you," the entrepreneur said. Other candidates, including Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, have also vowed to eliminate government agencies but Ramaswamy's proposals go further than anything his rivals have proposed. Experts on the Constitution and the separation of powers said the legal theories behind his proposal wouldn't survive a court challenge, the New York Times reports. Peter M. Shane, a specialist in separation-of-powers law at New York University, described a campaign white paper on the theories as "fantastical." (Read more Vivek Ramaswamy 2024 stories.)
In early August, more than 800 prisoners launched Bahrain's largest-ever hunger strike, demanding access to life-saving medical care and other improved conditions in the country's largest prison. That strike was paused Mondaytwo days before Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa's scheduled visit to Washingtonas Bahrain's government promised meaningful change. Yet it took officials less than a day to renege on that promise, human rights activist Maryam al-Khawaja, the daughter of one of Bahrain's most prominent political prisoners, tells NPR . She claims the US ally's promise of reform is disingenuous and only meant to shield Al Khalifa, who is also Bahrain's prime minister, from "negative backlash and negative media attention during his trip."

Abdulhadi al-Khawaja, a 62-year-old Danish-Bahraini citizen and 2013 Nobel Peace Prize nominee along with his two daughters, was convicted of terrorism in 2011 as a pro-democracy protest leader and sentenced to life in prison. He suffers from a heart condition and glaucoma but has been denied access to medication and doctors, Maryam claims. Following the government's announcement, Abdulhadi was scheduled to visit an eye doctor on Wednesday, but prison officials "refused to take him to his appointment," prompting Abdulhadi to go back on hunger strike, Maryam tells NPR. Bahrain's prison authority denied Abdulhadi was refused medical care, claiming his health is "stable with no serious concerns," per the AP.

But Maryam, who lives in Denmark, is so concerned that she plans to risk life in prison in traveling to Bahrain to plead for her father's release. She's already been sentenced to a year in a Bahraini prisonshe was convicted in absentia for assaulting police on her last visit in 2014, a charge she denies, per AFPand has another four cases pending, she tells NPR. But "saving my father is more important than my fear." She adds her trip wouldn't be necessary if the US government went "beyond just lip service around the importance of human rights" and pressured Bahrain into concrete change. There was no mention of the country's prisoners as Al Khalifa met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken Wednesday to sign a security agreement. The Washington Post has more on the deal. (Read more Bahrain stories.)
UPDATE

Sep 18, 2023 12:13 PM CDT

Bill Maher is following the lead of Drew Barrymorehe has scrapped plans to resume his HBO talk show amid the Hollywood writers' strike, per the Hollywood Reporter. Maher cited apparent progress in negotiations. "My decision to return to work was made when it seemed nothing was happening and there was no end in sight to this strike," Maher wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "Now that both sides have agreed to go back to the negotiating table I'm going to delay the return of Real Time, for now, and hope they can finally get this done." The Writers Guild of America and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers haven't settled on a date for new talks, but they could happen this week, according to THR.

Sep 14, 2023 11:25 AM CDT

Bill Maher will become the first nighttime host to return to the air amid the Hollywood writers strike. The host of HBO's Real Time With Bill Maher made the announcement on X, formerly Twitter, reports NPR. "The writers have important issues that I sympathize with, and hope they are addressed to their satisfaction, but they are not the only people with issues, problems, and concerns," Maher wrote. He added that he is "not prepared to lose an entire year and see so many below-the-line people suffer so much." The strike began in May, and there's no end in sight.
A Russian pilot deliberately tried to shoot down a British plane last year, the BBC is reporting, contradicting Russia's claims of a "technical malfunction." The pilot fired two missiles at the Royal Air Force plane in international airspace over the Black Sea on Sept. 29, 2022. The RAF RC-135 Rivet Joint aircraft, carrying up to 30 people, was on a surveillance mission off the coast of Crimea when it encountered two Russian SU-27 fighter jets. According to "senior Western defense sources," intercepted communications show one of the two pilots believed he had permission to fire on the RAF plane following "an ambiguous command from a Russian ground station." A source said the pilot was told "you have the target."

In response, he fired an air-to-air missile, which missed as it failed to lock onto the RAF plane, per the BBC. Though the pilot was berated by the pilot of the second jet, who didn't believe the pair had been given permission to fire, he then fired a second missile. This one "fell from the wingsuggesting the weapon either malfunctioned or that the launch was aborted," per the BBC. The outlet notes the RAF plane has sensors to intercept communications and the crew "would have been able to listen in to the incident which could have resulted in their own deaths." Yet when the Russian government claimed the incident had been caused by a "technical malfunction," the UK's Ministry of Defense (MoD) publicly accepted the account.

"We do not consider this incident to constitute a deliberate escalation on the part of the Russians, and our analysis concurs that it was due to a malfunction," Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said last October. Months later, intelligence allegedly leaked by airman Jack Teixeira revealed the US military viewed the incident as "a near shoot-down," the New York Times reported in April. The Times noted the incident "could have amounted to an act of war." A rep for British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak now says Wallace "provided the level of detail he was able to give to Parliament at that stage," per the Independent. An MoD rep adds "our intent has always been to protect the safety of our operations, avoid unnecessary escalation, and inform the public and international community." (Read more Russia stories.)
It's a break for Donald Trump: The former president will not have to go on trial next month in his Georgia indictment . Instead, only two of the 19 defendants will do soformer Trump attorneys Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro, reports the New York Times . Those two requested a speedy trial, and Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee ruled Thursday that their trial will be separate from that of the other 17 defendants. The pair's trial is set to begin on October 23. The ruling means that District Attorney Fani Willis' original hope of trying all 19 people at once will not happen, notes the Washington Post .

The AP notes that most of the remaining 17 defendants are likely pleased that they won't be grouped into the same trial as Powell, given that she was perhaps the most vocal in the Trump camp of asserting that the election was stolen and in floating various conspiracy theories to back that up. The judge did not set a trial date for Trump and the others, and he said it's possible that he might have to order more separate trials as legal challenges unfold. Trump, for instance, may push to have his case moved from state to federal court, though Mark Meadows' attempt to do that isn't going well. (Read more Georgia indictment stories.)
The U.S. Air Force announced today the B-21 Raider has started engine runs as part of its ground test program at Northrop Grummans Palmdale, California, facility. Engine testing is an essential milestone for the program as the worlds first sixth-generation aircraft continues on the path to flight test. A first flight in the next few days keeps the B-21 for operational capability in 2027. It will be able to beat Chinas super anti-stealth radar, the YLC-8E.

The B-21s first flight will remain a data driven event that is monitored by Northrop Grumman and the United States Air Force.

Developed with the next generation of stealth technology, advanced networking capabilities and open systems architecture, the B-21 Raider will serve as the backbone of Americas bomber fleet.

The B-21 Bomber is critical for breaking Chinas Anti-Access/Area Denial air defenses. They make it extremely dangerous for the US Navy and planes to get within a thousand miles of China in war. Anti-Access/Area Denial air defenses means that Chinas has built so many long and short range anti-ship missiles, anti-aircraft missiles and so much detection radar that they out-range US missiles on US ships.

Key to Chinas defense is the YLC-8E anti-stealth radar system. It can detect and track aircraft from over 310 miles away and missile threats from over 700 km away. The YLC-8E is designed to operate in mid to high altitudes and mid to long ranges. It uses UHF-Band 3D long-range surveillance radar. The YLC-8E was developed by the Chinese state-owned CETC. YLC-8E is a super radar that can detect American aircraft F-22 and F-35.

The YLC- 8E Anti Stealth Radar system, this radar system is a UHF band 3D surveillance radar with high antennas.

These radars cover UHF, L, S and C bands and have the basic characteristics of 4th Generation intelligence radar, such as fully digital and advance technology system. YLC-8E is the flagship of Chinese stealth radar.

YLC-8E is a new generation of surveillance radar with excellent anti stealth ability, high maneuverability, strong anti-interference ability, high reliability, and good maintainability. It is responsible for mid to high altitude, mid to long range air surveillance and guidance tasks, achieving search, tracking, and guidance of targets.

The B-21 maxes out all aspects of stealth to reduce the effective range of radars like YLC-8E. The B-21 is not just hard to detect from the front like the F-22 and F-35 but from all directions. The B-21 reduces detection ranges for the high frequency and other parts of the radar spectrum.

The B-21 helps resolve the issue that Area denial send Chinese missiles hitting and threatening targets past Guam. This includes bases in the Philippines, Japan etc The B-21 is super long-range 7000-9000 miles. They can base out of Australia and Hawaii (5000 miles) with one refueling. China has hundreds of DF-26 and DF-21 launchers and missiles. This will lake a long time to degrade. China also has extensive bunker and tunnel systems for protecting radar and missiles. The B-21 is not a magic wand that solves everything instantly but being able to put a lot of missiles and bombs on a lot of targets speeds up making Area denial far less effective.
Ukraine used ten UK Storm Shadow cruise missiles to destroy a Russian Kilo Submarine and a landing ship in a Sevastopol dry dock. They were on land in dry dock for repairs. Ukraine fired ten missiles and three got through.

Ukraine had taken out a S-400 anti-missile battery in north western Crimea and occupied two oil platforms. This opened up a window for Ukrainian missiles to get through to hit Sevastopol.

There have been recent reports that Ukraine was angered that they could not attack Russian ships anchored in Sevastopol with explosives in drone submarines last year. Now, Ukraine has destroyed a submarine and ship in Russias Black Sea fleet using cruise missiles given to them by the UK.

The Starlink system control over Ukraine and Crimea was handed over to the Pentagon. There is a report that the Starlink system over Crimea had an outage at about the same time as this Ukraine attack. However, the UK Storm shadow missiles do not need Starlink communications. This proves that Nextbigfuture was correct when I said that if the US or UK military wanted to let Ukraine attack the Russian Black Sea fleet that they could give Ukraine that capability. It is not up to the CEO of commercial businesses to give weapons or the capability for military action. Otherwise, Ukraine could call up the CEO of Lockheed and ask for a bunch of F-35 fighter jets.

The Storm Shadow cruise missiles costs about 2 million pounds each. They are long range missiles developed by the UK and France. They weight 1300 kilograms each. It has two warheads in each. One warhead break opens a hardened defense and the next destroys the target. It can go through 2 to four meters of concrete.

Russia has 1112 original Kilo-class submarines (Project 877) and 10 9 Improved Kilo-class submarines (Project 636.3). Two additional Improved Kilo-class submarines are on order for the Pacific Fleet and are expected to be delivered in 20232024.

Rostov na Donu was a diesel-electric submarine of the improved Project 636.3 class of modern Russian ships. This was a $300 million submarine.

The Minsk was a Ropucha-class landing ship of the Russian Navy.

The Kilo-class submarine is a diesel-electric submarine that has been one of the most successful naval programs in modern history.

There is also discussion about a distraction attack using suicide explosive ship drones. They then launched some S-200 missiles to allow them to identify the Russian air defense. Ukraine launched anti-radar missiles to blind the air defense and then they launched the Storm Shadow missiles.

This shows that the Russian S-400 systems are fairly sophisticated and effective. It shows that multi-pronged missile attacks can overwhelm the defense systems. A regular S-400 battalion consists of up to eight launchers with 32 missiles and a mobile command post. TASS reported that as of the end of 2015, a total of eleven Russian missile regiments were armed with S-400, and by the end of 2016 their number was expected to increase to sixteen. In 2012, it cost of US$200 million for a battery and reserve missiles. Russia was exporting systems in 2021 for a cost of US$500  US$625 million for a battery and reserve missiles.

China has at least six batteries of S-400.




Garba Shehu, media aide to former President Muhammadu Buhari, has expressed displeasure at the level of criticism aimed at his principal months after he left office.





According to Shehu, the Buhari government has taken hundreds of major decisions in the eight years it was in office, and yet you hear nothing but criticism upon criticism.





This was contained in a long statement he issued on Thursday marking 100 days Buhari left office as president.





Shehu claimed that every single area touched by Buhari came out with massive and positive changes in the eight years he held office.





He said, In the eight years he led the country, Muhammadu Buhari had taken many decisions and as is human, one or two may have been wrong.





But no one, not even critics, can question his intentions when those decisions were taken.





There has not been a single area that has not been touched by the Buhari government, with massive, positive changes in the eight years he held fort.





In the normative functions of our governments, an administration takes four to five major decisions in four years and they rush to the public square to celebrate themselves.





Looking at the records he left, the Buhari government has taken hundreds of major decisions in the eight years it was in office, and yet you hear nothing but criticism upon criticism.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has urged the Central Bank of Nigeria to make foreign exchange available for investors in the countrys aviation sector.

Keyamo disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja at the 7th edition of Aviation Summit.

According to Keyamo, President Bola Ahmed Tinubus government would focus on critical challenges facing the industry, including Forex availability, Aircraft Leasing Company, Aircraft Maintenance Organisation and tax holidays, to improve aviation business in Nigeria.

He noted that the government is working towards ending the crisis of foreign airlines trapped funds, which had lingered for almost two years.

The current administration is aware that one of the setbacks entrepreneurs have suffered in Nigeria in recent years is the fluctuation of foreign exchange and its availability.

This administration is committed to ensuring that forex is readily available to entrepreneurs, and I have directed that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) holds quarterly reconciliation meetings intending to resolve this issue, he said.

As of the beginning of June this year, the International Air Transport Association said the total amount of foreign airlines trapped funds in Nigeria had risen to $812 million.




Private employers of labour have warned the Nigeria Labour Congress against going ahead with its plans for a nationwide strike next week.





The Director-General of the Nigerian Employers Consultative Association (NECA), Mr. Adewale-Smart Oyerinde, who featured on a Television programme last night, said the proposed strike will be counter-productive.





He spoke as the NLC Head of Information Benson Upah confirmed that the planned nationwide strike by the NLC was on track.





Oyerinde warned it will hurt employers and employees.





The NECA boss, who applauded the Federal Government for the steps taken so far, however, said there was need for the government to do more.





The approval of N5billion to each state is a step, because if the money is well spent in a state economy, it will trigger some level of consumption, which will also go back into production.





We are also aware that the government is sharing rice. But, these efforts are not enough.





Oyerinde said the strike will not in any way address the challenges confronting employers, employees the generality of Nigerians.





In his view, it is possible for parties in the dispute to renegotiate already agreed terms.





Our position remains the same on the issue. And that is, if you negotiate, courtesy demands that you live up to the terms of negotiation.





But, if anything arises that makes it difficult to live up to the terms of the negotiation, there is opportunity to renegotiate the terms that have been agreed upon, if you dont have the capacity to implement.





The DG said going on strike will distress stakeholders.





For us as employers, though we are paying beyond the minimum wage and we have also gone to provide succour, palliatives, welfare packages to make life easier for employees in the private sector, notwithstanding the fact that employers are currently bleeding and facing multi-dimensional challenges.





But, we have done well, as the President had also commended the employers in his August broadcast. A strike at this point will do two or three things.





One, it will hinder the ability of the employers to meet their obligations and this will affect, not only the public sector, but even the workers.





When you go on strike, it will put the employers in double jeopardy, especially when we are not the protagonist and antagonists. And that remains our position.





Oyerinde urged the government to do everything possible to avert the industrial crisis.





He said: We are calling on the government to do all that is necessary to avoid the strike.





But if the strike should happen, it will be counter-productive for both employers and the workers.





Oyerinde said government should look at the payment of multiple taxes, VAT on diesel and petrol, creation of an enabling environment, and the forex challenge.





The Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Labour, Olajide Oshundun, said the ministry was yet to receive any notice of strike from the NLC.





A member of the National Working Committee of the NLC said there was no need for a fresh notice as the communique issued at the end of the NEC meeting of the Congress on September 1, was enough for the government.





Upah said the government had not done anything to suggest that it was committed to the promises it made.
Doyin Odebowale, an aide to Rotimi Akeredolu, governor of Ondo, says little governance took place in the state during his principals absence.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, Odebowale said while Akeredolu was ill, some persons were planning to contest the 2024 governorship election.

Last Thursday, Akeredolu returned to Nigeria after a three-month medical leave in Germany.

RUMOURS OF RIFT

In June, Akeredolu left Nigeria for medical attention in Germany and handed the reins of power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

The prolonged stay of the Ondo governor in Germany elicited concerns among the political class and residents of the state.

A few days after his return, Akeredolu sacked the media aides attached to the office of Aiyedatiwa.

The development stirred speculations that all is not well between Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa.

AKEREDOLU HATES PETTY POLITICS

Speaking on the development, Odebowale, the special adviser on special duty and strategy, said the governor has the prerogative to appoint or sack any member of his cabinet.

Asked about the status of the relationship between the duo, Odebowale said there is no problem and that the governor and his deputy met few days ago.

He said the state will not emulate the political situation in neighbouring Edo state, adding that Akeredolu hates petty politics.

The governor is not interested in petty politics that people have reduced the whole state to in his absence, he said.

I can tell you for free, when he was away, there was little governance.

People want to contest and they want to be governor.

It is within their rights but they were distracting us. They were recruiting people to distract us. The governor is not petty.

Asked if the governor is against his deputy contesting the 2024 election, Odebowale said Akeredolu has not informed anyone of his choice of successor.

He said some persons were posting the obituary of the Ondo governor while he was in Germany.

He added that these unnamed persons were also demanding the transfer of power.




A total of 151 terrorists have been killed by the Nigerian military, while 456 others were captured in different operations across the country.





The Director Defence Media Operations at the Defence Headquarters, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, stated this in an update of military operations across the country on Thursday in Abuja.





Buba said the troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised 44 terrorists, arrested 21 and rescued four kidnapped hostages during the period.





He said the troops recovered 17 AK47 rifles, three locally fabricated rifles, three locally made guns, one beretta pistol, three Dane guns and 116 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo.





Also recovered are five rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 13 rounds of 9mm ammo, 20 rounds of 7.62 mm x 54 ammo, 42 empty and cases of 7.62 mm x 54 ammo.





Others are 12 magazines, 50 jerry cans of PMS, three vehicles, five mobile phone, six motorcycles, three cutlasses and the sum of N3.18 million.





Buba said the troops arrested some suspected terrorists collaborators in Jere and Biu in Borno, as well as Gujba Local Government Area in Yobe.





He said that troops also ambushed and raided suspected terrorists hideouts in Konduga and Gwoza Local Government Areas of Borno.





The director said that the offensive resulted in elimination of terrorists and recovery of arms and ammunitions.





In North Central, Buba said the troops of Operation Safe Haven neutralised 16 terrorists, arrested 16 and rescued one kidnapped hostage within the period.





He said they also recovered 12 AK47 rifles, two pistols, five locally fabricated rifles, six dane guns, 32 rounds of 7.62mm special, 15 magazines and three motorcycles.





Under Operation Whirl Stroke, he said the troops neutralised 15 terrorists, arrested six and rescued one kidnapped hostage as well as recovery of arms and ammunition.





In North West, the defence spokesman said the troops of Operations Hadarin Daji and Whirl Punch, neutralised 35 terrorists, arrested eight and rescued 17 kidnapped hostages within the period.





He added that the air components of the various operations had continued to annihilate the terrorists from their various hideouts with series of air strikes.




The leadership of Labour Party has chided Nobel laureate, Wole Soyinka, for accusing the opposition party of attempting to hoodwink Nigerians into believing that its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, won the February 25 election.





The objection is coming in the wake of Soyinkas declaration on Wednesday at an event titled, The Lives of Wole Soyinka  A Dialogue, which was held in Stellenbosch, South Africa.





The renowned writer had claimed the party was aware Obi that came third but the leadership persisted on playing Gbajue (to force a lie) on the people, especially the youthful population.





When further asked to clarify his previous statement on the LP vice presidential candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, after the general election, Soyinka reiterated that he was committed to the truth.





His utterances, however, didnt sit well with the camp of Obi and the Labour Party.





Reacting in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, the National Publicity Secretary of LP, Obiora Ifoh, said Soyinkas statement was not expected of someone who is highly revered as a detribalised statesman.





In the release titled, Soyinka: Statesmen are not double-faced, not blind to truth, Ifoh noted that they couldnt imagine that the playwright could stoop to the groupthink syndrome based on primordial considerations.





A groupthink syndrome is a phenomenon that occurs when a group of individuals reaches a consensus without critical reasoning or evaluation of the consequences or alternatives.





He said, Prof. Wole Soyinka is a Nigerian whose accomplishments in the literary world are without doubt intimidating. However, we beg to disagree with his prognosis and personal opinion on the performance of our party during the 2023 general elections. The facts are before the courts and, out of respect for our judiciary, we will reserve our comments until the Supreme Court makes a final pronouncement.





We understand that the literary giant is human and thus susceptible to emotions and probably said what he said based on information made available to him by those who share the Emilokan sentiment.





It is most befuddling as well as disconcerting that a detribalised and activist like Soyinka would succumb to the groupthink syndrome that subscribes to state capture by those belonging to the criminal fringe by any means, based on primordial considerations. We really appreciate him for at least giving some credits to Labour Party and its presidential candidate for breaking the monopoly of power hitherto held by the two other parties.





Continuing, the spokesman also expressed disappointment that Soyinka decided to take sides rather than condemn some anomalies in the build-up to the last general elections and the abysmal performance of the Independent National Electoral Commission.





Ifoh, however, concluded that Soyinka is a Nigerian and equally entitled to his opinion.





The whole world followed the 2023 general election and there was a global condemnation on not only the outcome of the election but also the process, particularly, the glitch that occurred only during the transmission of presidential result to IREV. We didnt hear as much as a whisper from Kongi on reminding INEC to stand by its word.





We will not allege selective amnesia as the reason for Soyinkas wrong prognosis but we would have expected him to be a statesman, which we thought he was by remaining on the side of caution. We want to also let him know that building a New Nigeria is a dream whose time has come and Nigerian youths will not relent until such a dream is realised, he said.
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday met with Abdullahi Ganduje, national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the service chiefs at the Aso Rock villa.

The meeting, held at the council chambers of the presidential villa, was about finding solutions to the protracted clashes between farmers and herders in parts of the country.

President Bola Tinubu is set to receive a report and blueprint from committee members of the national conference on livestock reforms and mitigation of associated conflicts in Nigeria, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) posted on X.

President Bola Tinubu is set to receive a report and blueprint from Committee members of the national conference on livestock reforms and mitigation of associated conflicts in Nigeria.

 @MDanwahab pic.twitter.com/5OC1yPMUsH  NTA News (@NTANewsNow) September 14, 2023





Before completing his second term as governor of Kano state, Ganduje worked with stakeholders to find lasting solutions to the problem.

In January, Ganduje inaugurated a committee tasked with planning a national conference that would proffer solutions to farmer-herder clashes.

The 26-member committee was chaired by Attahiru Jega, a former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Speaking at the meeting, Ganduje said Jegas committee has turned in its report which he said is an antidote to the clashes.

Mr. President, I am convinced that the Report submitted to you here today has the antidote to the problems of the livestock industry, the former governor said.

It addresses the key reforms and presents various development options needed for the sustainable development of the sector.

The implementation of the proposals will enhance productivity, improve livelihoods, promote environmental conservation, address substantial causes of conflicts between farmers and pastoralists and help in reducing the high cost of imports of animal products like milk and beef.

Over the years, lives, crops and livestock have been lost over clashes between pastoralists and farmers in many parts of the country.
Ireti Kingibe, senator representing the federal capital territory (FCT), says Nyesom Wike, the minister of the territory, needs time to study the dynamics of the city before issuing demolition threats.

Kingibe said this on Wednesday during a chat with reporters in Abuja.

The senator had been asked to comment on the demolition threats issued by Wike on his first day in office.

While agreeing that some structures on waterways and floodplains need to go, Kingibe advised Wike to look at the issues holistically.

For one thing, Im not telling you that there would not be demolitions, she said.

There are many problems with FCT. Look at the flooding taking place in FCT, why? Houses are being built on flood channels, permissions are being given to people to build estates on flood plains.

There are so many things that we need to fix.

I am not talking of random demolitions that the minister has not been here long enough to have studied everything holistically and I feel like he needs to take time to look at the whole picture of the FCT then decide.

Lots of things need demolishing, there is no doubt about that.

Now that I have been affirmed, I have the full right to speak as the senator representing FCT.

What I can assure you is that the interest of the people will be paramount in all that I do.

Kingibe said she hopes her interests and Wikes align for the good of FCT residents.

You must remember that the minister and I have different goals. I was elected by the people so Im answerable to you the people of the FCT. He is not, she said.

But working together I hope we can merge our interests.

Kingibe said the minister is supposed to administer the FCT in collaboration with the national assembly and president because he does not have executive powers.

You also have to remember that the minister of the FCT  Im not sure we have had a former governor as minister, I think we have had one, she said.

Some [former] governors may think that as FCT minister the minister does not have executive powers.

He works hand-in-hand with the national assembly and the president to administer FCT.
A Bergen County man was arrested Wednesday and charged with possession and distribution of child pornography following an investigation lasting several months, authorities said.

Galo A. Fernandez, of Wood-Ridge, was arrested after detectives executed a search warrant at his home.

The investigation revealed that Fernandez used the internet to view, download, possess, distribute, and share items depicting (child sexual abuse), Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella said in a statement.

Fernandez was charged with second-degree distribution and third-degree possession of child pornography, Musella said.

Fernandez was being held in the Bergen County Jail to await a first-appearance court hearing. Attorney information for Fernandez was not available on Thursday.

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
A former corrections officer has been arrested on allegations that he sold marijuana and tobacco products to an inmate at the jail where he worked, Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw said.

Abraham Olmedia, 27, of Burlington Township, is accused of selling the items to an inmate at Burlington County Jail in Mount Holly, officials said. He was taken into custody on Wednesday and charged with official misconduct, conspiracy to commit official misconduct and a disorderly persons offense of providing contraband to an inmate.

Authorities said Olmedia gave the inmate marijuana and tobacco products on multiple occasions and in return, received a payment from the inmates relatives.

An investigation into the operation began after another corrections officer detected the scent of tobacco coming from a jail cell.

Olmedia, who had been working for the New Jersey Department of Corrections for about two years, resigned when the investigation was being conducted, officials said.

He was released following his arrest and is scheduled to appear in Burlington County Superior Court next month.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com.
A man accused of stabbing a woman at a Wildwood home on Sunday is at large and considered armed and dangerous as of Wednesday afternoon, authorities said.

An arrest warrant has been issued for 43-year-old Terrance Dore, of Wildwood, and he was being pursued by multiple agencies, according to a statement from the Wildwood Police Department. He is charged with attempted murder weapon offenses.

Dore is also believed to have a significant eye injury. Police did not specify which eye.

Officers were called to a West Poplar Avenue home shortly before 9 p.m. on Sunday for a report of a woman who had been stabbed, the department said. They found her two blocks away with multiple puncture wounds to her upper body and immediately rendered aid and rushed her to Atlantic City Medical Center.

The womans status was not released Wednesday and it was unclear if she was still in the hospital.

Investigators determined that a possible suspect had barricaded themselves inside an apartment at the same address where the woman was reportedly stabbed and the Cape May County Regional SWAT responded and set up a multi-block perimeter, police said.

The man eventually exited the home and was detained, but it was determined that he was not a suspect. The man was a witness and was taken to police headquarters, officials said.

Police and detectives from the Cape May County Prosecutors Office obtained a warrant to search the home where DNA was collected and analyzed, resulting in the identification of Dore as a suspect in the stabbing, the department said.

Anyone with information on Dores whereabouts was urged to contact the Wildwood Police Department at 609-522-0222.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com.
A man convicted of shooting a New Jersey State Police detective in Salem County in 2020 was sentenced Tuesday to 37 years in state prison, officials said.

On April 25, 2020, Detective Richard Hershey was shot and wounded while investigating a home invasion in which a woman was beaten and robbed at the Harding Woods mobile home park on Harding Highway in Pittsgrove, according to a statement from the New Jersey Attorney Generals Office.

The incident stemmed from derogatory comments the victim allegedly made about the family of one of her assailants, according to court documents.

While Hershey was at the scene of that crime, which had occurred several hours earlier, a hostile mob of 15 people pulled up in five vehicles at around 10:30 p.m., with the intention of attacking and injuring a resident at the mobile home park and damaging her home, the office said, The members of the caravan were armed with at least two handguns, one knife, and one bottle.

Some members got out their cars and confronted the detective, who identified himself as a police officer and gave commands in an effort to control the intruders, investigators said. Tremaine Hadden, 30, of Bridgeton, along with two others, Najzeir Naz Hutchings and Kareen Kai Warner, opened fire on Hershey.

Hadden shot at Detective Hershey numerous times from one vehicle, while Hutchings and Warner shot at him from another vehicle, officials said. Testimony from a ballistics expert demonstrated that over a dozen shots were fired at Hershey, including approximately 11 fired by Hadden alone.

The detective, who returned fire with his service weapon, was struck in the hip and seriously wounded and the suspects fled, authorities said. Several of the bullets fired by the suspects struck occupied homes in the area.

Hershey has since recovered and returned to duty, and he was subsequently named the NJSPs 2020 Trooper of the Year for his dedication and courageous actions during the confrontation, the office said.

Hutchings and Warner, who are both from Bridgeton, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault in May while Harding was previously found guilty of aggravated assault, conspiracy to commit aggravated assault, riot and weapons-related offenses, according to the statement.

The prison sentence given to this defendant illustrates that my office will not tolerate violence against our law enforcement professionals as they attempt to do their jobs and protect the public, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin said in a statement. Anyone who would brazenly shoot at an officer as he was identifying himself and giving verbal commands clearly has no respect for the law and those who enforce it. I remain grateful for Detective Hersheys recovery and ongoing service to our great state.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com.
Four years after she vanished from a Cumberland County park, authorities have released a new age-progression image of how Dulce Maria Alavez may appear now as a 9-year-old.

Dulce was 5 when she disappeared from Bridgeton City Park during a family outing on Sept. 16, 2019, in one of New Jerseys best-known unsolved missing person cases.

The investigation into her whereabouts, involving local, state and federal agencies, has stretched across the country and into Mexico.

In the past year, investigators have traveled out of state to follow up on tips that have recently come in regarding Dulces disappearance, Cumberland County Prosecutor Jennifer Webb-McRae and Bridgeton Police Chief Michael Gaimari said in a joint press release Thursday.

READ MORE: 4 years after N.J. girl vanished, Fla. group investigating leads in Dulce Alavez case

The rendering was created by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and released Thursday by the prosecutors office.

Officials hope the new image will spur renewed interest in the case.

Our age progression images have helped bring home missing children many times, said Angeline Hartmann, director of communications at the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. We ask people to keep in mind that this may not be exactly what Dulce looks like now. This is an approximation, meant to spark recognition. Were asking everyone to take a look and see if theres something familiar about this face.

The new rendering is the first since the center released two age-progression images of Dulce two years ago.

At the time, Dulces mother, Noema Alavez Perez, said the first image wasnt an accurate depiction of what her daughter would look like at age 7.

I saw the photo and, honestly, I dont think thats what shed look like now, she said in 2021. Her face couldnt have changed that much in just two years.

Two years ago, authorities released age-progression images (left, center) of how Dulce Maria Alavez may appear as a 7-year-old. Her mother said she didn't think the images were an accurate depiction of her daughter, who was 5 (right) when she disappeared from a Bridgeton City Park on Sept. 16, 2019.

Alavez Perez didnt feel much better about the second rendering of how Dulce could look at age 7 that was released later that year.

However, Alavez Perez said the new image released Thursday more accurately represents how her daughter could look at age 9, especially the rendering of Dulces eyes.

She looks a lot like a family member, Alavez Perez said.

A vigil for Dulce is scheduled for Saturday at 4:30 p.m. at Dulces tree, a spot near the Bridgeton City Park playground where she was last seen.

On the day she vanished, Dulce and her 3-year-old brother, Manny, had run off to the playground while their mother remained in the car about 30 yards away. When Alavez Perez went looking for her children a short time later, she found only Manny.

Witness interviews produced two descriptions of what may be the same man who was seen in the area around the time Dulce vanished, investigators said.

State Police issued an Amber Alert for Dulce more than 24 hours after she was reported missing, on the evening of Sept. 17, 2019. That alert described a person of interest as a light-skinned white or Hispanic male, 5 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 8 inches tall, with a thin build, no facial hair and facial acne, wearing orange sneakers, red pants and a black shirt. The alert indicated he drove off in a red van with tinted windows and a sliding rear passenger-side door.

That description was provided by a child, investigators acknowledged.

Authorities are confident that they have tracked down every vehicle remotely matching the red van description that was in the park on the date of the incident, county Prosecutor Jennifer Webb-McRae and Bridgeton Police Chief Michael Gaimari said in a joint press release Thursday. However, until such time as we determine the circumstances regarding Dulces disappearance, we will not rule out the report of the red van.

The second description released in 2019, from a different witness, was of a Hispanic man, about 5 feet 7 inches tall, with a slender build and about 30 to 35 years old.

Police later released a sketch based on that second description, but the man was never located.

Investigators are still interested in identifying that man, officials said Thursday.

An FBI special agent involved in the case said in 2020 that Dulce was likely abducted by a stranger in a crime of opportunity. But, the agency has had little to say publicly since then.

Though the FBI remains actively involved in the case, the agency had no new information it could share this week, according to a spokeswoman.

Even though four years have passed since Dulce disappeared, we are actively working on leads and tips we receive from the public, the agency said in a statement issued Thursday. We want to provide Dulces family with answers, but we need help. Anyone with information, regardless of how insignificant it may seem, please call FBI Newark at 973-792-3000.

In 2019, investigators released this image of someone they wanted to speak with in connection with the disappearance of Dulce Maria Alavez.

In addition to the ongoing investigation being conducted by the prosecutors office and Bridgeton Police Department, others have taken an interest in trying to crack the case.

A Florida-based non-profit investigation group called the Anti-Predator Project recently joined the effort at the request of supporters helping Dulces family.

They are asking anyone with information about the case to contact them at 305-796-4859 or by email at info@antipredatorproject.org. Members of the Anti-Predator Project also plan to attend the vigil on Saturday.

Anyone with information about Dulces disappearance is asked to contact authorities via one of these options:

Bridgeton Police: 856-451-0033

Cumberland County Prosecutors Office: 856-453-0486

New Jersey State Police: 609-882-2000, ext. 2554

Anonymous tips may be sent to Bridgeton Police at bpdops.com/tips or to the prosecutors office at njccpo.gov/tips.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com.
Proponents of gunshot detection systems say they help save lives and catch criminals by automatically alerting first responders to the time and place of shootings faster than 911 calls.

But critics question the value of detection systems like ShotSpotter, which occasionally mistake car backfires or other booms for gunshots, saying they can lead to over-policing of neighborhoods where their audio sensors are installed.

Newark police and civilian officials are among the proponents, and on Sept. 7, the City Council approved expanding the citys ShotSpotter system, voting unanimously to accept a $1M grant from the state Department of Law and Public Safety to install the technology in areas of the East and North wards. The city began using ShotSpotter in 2011.

I think its an important tool for the police division to have in order to address any suspected shots fired or criminal activity in the neighborhood, North Ward City Councilman Anibal Ramos said this week, rejecting concerns that ShotSpotter leads to over-policing. If you look at our arrest numbers, theyre down. I dont think the data supports the concerns.

Newark is among 11 municipalities in New Jersey that have ShotSpotter, according to SoundThinking Inc., the Freemont, California-based company that offers the service on a contractual basis. The others are East Orange  the states first, in 2006  Atlantic City, Camden, Asbury Park, Neptune, Paterson, Plainfield, Pleasantville, Salem City, and Trenton. Nationwide, more than 150 cities use ShotSpotter, SoundThinking says.

Catherine Adams, a spokesperson for Newark Public Safety Director Fritz Frage, said ShotSpotter alerts lead to police responses to shooting incidents as close to real-time and as close to the actual shooting location as possible, without the need for 911 calls from the public.

Adams could not provide specific data to support the ShotSpotter systems expansion. The city spent $248,680 on the system for the year-long period from April 2022 to March 2023, Adams said.

But she noted that the city introduced ShotSpotter following a drastic increase in homicides during the 2000s.

Last year, Newark recorded 50 homicides, down from 59 the year before, according to the department. Year-to-date figures from the department for gun crimes are either level or down this year, compared to the same period in 2022.

For example, there were 39 homicides using guns in 2023 as of Sept. 4, the same number as the year before. The number of non-fatal shootings through Sept. 4 was down 11.2%, to 87 from 98.

ShotSpotter uses specialized acoustic sensors, typically mounted on lampposts or buildings, designed to identify and report the sound of gunfire. Multiple sensors mounted in separate locations but linked in a network record the sound of the same shot or series of shots fractions of a second apart and use triangulation to determine where it came from.

ShotSpotter staff, trained to analyze sound wave images, review the information and relay it to police, including individual officers able to view it on an app. ShotSpotter says the process takes less than a minute, and the technology and its human interpreters correctly identify gunshots 97% of the time.

But following its introduction in 1997, civil rights advocates have criticized ShotSpotter, saying neighborhoods where its installed are, by nature, likely to draw more frequent police responses and interactions with people who may have nothing to do with the alleged shots fired. Critics say those neighborhoods are typically Black and brown.

When Shotspotter generates a false alert, police are deployed to an area and may treat everyone there like a suspect shooter  even when no shooting has taken place, the Newark-based American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey said this week. ShotSpotter, like all surveillance systems, are disproportionately deployed in Black neighborhoods and greatly increases the chances in those neighborhoods of a high-intensity, adversarial encounter between police who think theres a shooter and people just going about their day.

The ACLU-NJ cited an August 2021 report by the City of Chicagos Office of Inspector General, which reviewed ShotSpotter incidents to determine the cost-effectiveness of the Chicago Police Departments 3-year, $33 million contract for the service.

CPD responses to ShotSpotter alerts rarely produce documented evidence of a gun-related crime, investigatory stop, or recovery of a firearm, the report states.

SoundThinking rejects assertions that ShotSpotter is unreliable or leads to over-policing and has a webpage to refute what it says are false claims by critics.

Newarks police union president says the technology is worthwhile.

To me, there is no perfect system, said Jeff Weber, president of the Newark Fraternal Order of Police. But anytime when there is potential gunfire, violence, anything that tips off the police to a possible shooting, a probable person with a gun in the area, anything like that, Im all for it.

Weber said the fact that the state was paying for the systems expansion meant it was not diverting police funds from somewhere else. He added that he was unaware of any police encounter that went bad after being prompted by a false ShotSpotter report.

Other supporters say ShotSpotter does more than solve gun crimes.

Dr. Anna Goldenberg-Sandau, a trauma surgeon at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, analyzed nine years of gun violence in the city before and after ShotSpotter went into use and found that it sped responses by EMTs and police.

Without ShotSpotter, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) took an average of 6.4 minutes to respond compared with 4.5 minutes when ShotSpotter was activated, Goldenberg-Sandau wrote in a 2021 opinion piece on NJ.com. These alerts can help first responders identify and assist gunshot victims who would otherwise not receive life-saving help.

NOTE: This story was updated to include Newarks spending on ShotSpotter for the 12 months ending in March.

Nobody knows Jersey better than N.J.com. Sign up to get breaking news alerts straight to your inbox.

Steve Strunsky may be reached at sstrunsky@njadvancemedia.com
The new COVID-19 vaccines recommended this week by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are available in some New Jersey locations and should be accessible statewide in the coming weeks, according to the state Department of Health.

The updated booster is recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older.

The New Jersey Department of Health encourages residents to stay up to date as the number of COVID-19 cases ticks up and the immunity of some may be waning. The new vaccine provides the most up-to-date protection against the virus, health officials say.

With rising cases, COVID-19 continues to remain a significant public health priority, acting Health Commissioner Dr. Kaitlan Baston said in a statement. This new vaccine provides updated protections and can be easily received at the same time as your annual flu shot.

The Department will continue to work with providers across the state to make sure everyone who wants the added protection of the updated COVID-19 shot can easily access it, especially the states vulnerable populations and those who are under- or uninsured.

To locate a vaccination provider, visit Vaccines.gov. Vaccines will be available from primary care providers, chain pharmacies, Federally Qualified Health Centers and other health care institutions.

For more information, visit nj.gov/health/vaccines.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Spencer Kent may be reached at skent@njadvancemedia.com.
If former Gov. Jim McGreevey decides to run for mayor of Jersey City in 2025, hell be attempting to steamroll any rivals with the full force of the powerful Hudson County Democratic Organization (HCDO) behind him.

And multiple sources with knowledge of the workings of the HCDO told The Jersey Journal its not a matter of if, but just when McGreevey announces he wants to succeed Steve Fulop as leader of the states second-largest city.
A South Carolina man has been convicted of killing a Middlesex County gas station clerk in 2018, authorities announced Thursday.

Olya Quinnam, of Beaufort, South Carolina stood outside of the Speedway Gas Station on Amboy Avenue in Edison on Dec. 20, 2018, while Marcus A. Wright, 27, also of Beaufort, entered the store and held up the clerk with a handgun, according to a statement from the Middlesex County Prosecutors Office.

The clerk, John Bertram, 38, of the Fords section of Woodbridge, handed the cash register filled with money to Wright, the office said. Wright then shot Bertram, who later died of his injuries.

The slaying sparked a manhunt for the masked killer, until Wright and Quinnam were arrested in January 2019 in South Carolina, officials said.

While imprisoned at the Lieber Correctional Institute in Dorchester County, South Carolina and awaiting extradition to New Jersey, Wright was charged with murder in the death of Matthew Williams.

An arrest warrant said Wright and Williams were in their cell when they got into a fight. Authorities say Wright used a personal weapon on Williams, causing severe injuries to his face and head.

The warrant says Williams died from blunt force trauma. The outcome of that case was unclear Thursday.

As far as the case against him in New Jersey, on Tuesday, Wright was found guilty of murder, felony murder, armed robbery, conspiracy to commit armed robbery and weapons-related offenses following a week-long trial, the office said.

Wright, who faces life in prison, is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 1, authorities said.

In 2019, Quinnam pleaded guilty to armed robbery in admitting she drove the getaway car after Wright shot the clerk, investigators said. It was unclear what her prison sentence was.

This report contains material from the Associated Press.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription.

Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com.
A 47-year-old man from New York has pleaded guilty in an interstate burglary spree that targeted the homes of Asian American business owners, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger said.

James Hurt entered the guilty plea Wednesday in Newark federal court on a single count of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property, officials said.

Hurt conspired with seven others to burglarize the homes of Asian American small business owners living in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Delaware from December 2016 to March 2019, authorities said.

During the burglaries, the group stole large sums of cash, high-end jewelry and other valuable items and transported the goods between states, officials said.

In one instance, approximately $350,000 in property was stolen from a single residence in Monroe County in Pennsylvania, according to court documents.

A member of the group told detectives that they were targeting Asian business owners because it was believed that the victims kept large sums of currency and jewelry in their residences, according to a criminal complaint.

Seven others were charged in the case along with Hurt in 2021  Randi Barr, 42, of Vauxhall, Rabine Armour, of Easton, Pennsylvania, Kevin Burton, of Newark, Kevin Jackson, of Rahway, Thomas Rodgers, of Newark, Sherman Glasco of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and Terrance Black, of Irvington. All were charged with conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property, prosecutors said.

Barr was sentenced to 50 months in state prison last month and was ordered to pay a combined $127,661 in restitution and forfeiture.

The U.S. Attorneys Office did not provide an update on the status of the remaining five defendants criminal cases.

Hurts sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 20, 2024.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com.
The official end of summer is fast approaching, but the end of Daylight Savings Time for 2023 is still more than seven weeks away.

Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, when the clock will fall back one hour and in theory we get one extra hour of sleep.

Days will continue to get shorter through final days of summer and fall, which begins on Sep. 23 at 2:49 a.m. On that day sunset is 6:53 p.m.

Sept. 19 will mark the final day that the sun sets at 7 p.m. or later until we turn ahead the clocks again on March 10, 2024 and daylight saving starts again.

The sun will set in Newark at 5:52 p.m. on Nov. 4. The following day  after Daylight Saving time concludes  sunset is more than an hour earlier at 4:50 p.m. The amount of daylight will continue to shorten each day until Dec. 21 when the winter solstice arrives. Then the length of days will begin to increase until the summer solstice on June 20, 2024.

Clocks were turned back one hour for the return to Daylight Saving Time on Nov. 7, 2021.The Associated Press

The flip side is that the sun will rise approximately one hour earlier each morning. On Nov. 5, sunrise is 7:32 a.m. The next day the sun comes up at 6:33 a.m. While millions of people will travel home from work mostly or entirely in the dark in November, their morning commute will include more daylight.

Clocks officially fall back at 2 a.m. on the first Sunday in November to 1 a.m.

Daylight Saving Time started on Sunday, March 12, 2023 and will end on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023  a run of 238 days. It has lasted from the second Sunday in March until the first Sunday in November since 2007.

We next turn the clocks ahead on March 10, 2024  126 days after turning them back. Daylight Saving Time in 2024 will end on Nov. 3, 2024.

The concept dates back more than a century when English architect William Willett proposed the idea to change the clocks in 1907 in The Waste of Daylight. The suggestion of using daylight more efficiently can be traced to Benjamin Franklin.

While visiting in Paris in 1784, he wrote a letter to the editors of the Journal of Paris calling for a tax on every Parisian whose windows were shuttered after sunrise to encourage the economy of using sunshine instead of candles, according to Michael Downing, author of Spring Forward: The Annual Madness of Daylight Saving Time.

Hawaii and most of Arizona do not observe Daylight Saving Time. The time change is also not observed in U.S. territories of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Seventeen states have enacted legislation to make Daylight Saving Time permanent. Voters in California have voted to authorize year-round Daylight Saving Time. Those changes, however, require federal approval.

In March 2022, the U.S. Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act, which would end changing the clocks twice a year. The U.S. House of Representatives didnt take a vote on it, though.

A handful of provinces in Canada  most of Saskatchewan and Yukon have adopted permanent daylight saving as has parts of British Columbia and two communities in northwest Ontario.

About 70 countries observe Daylight Saving Time. Most of North America, Europe and parts of South America and New Zealand adhere to it, while China, Japan, India and most other countries do not.

It starts on different dates elsewhere. In Europe for example, Daylight Saving Time starts the last Sunday in March and ends the final Sunday in October,

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com.
Two decades ago, as the AIDS epidemic was spreading across Africa like wildfire, President George W. Bush summoned Americas most noble instincts, winning bipartisan approval for a global health program that has since saved 25 million lives.

U.S. Rep. Chris Smith is now putting that effort at risk over his fanaticism on the issue of abortion. His objection is that some organizations that receive money through this program, also provide abortions. For that, hes willing to endanger a program he himself once called the most successful U.S. foreign aid program since the Marshall Plan.
U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. is the only New Jersey Republican congressman who has yet to say whether he supports a newly launched impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden  and at one point reportedly backed into an elevator this week as he dodged the question.

That echoed a similar scenario involving Kean on the campaign trail 17 years ago.
Colombias Ministry of ICT MinTic revealed it held a crisis meeting to manage Tigo Colombias financial woes in a bid to prevent the operator from ceasing mobile service.

In a statement, MinTic said the meeting we attended by representatives from Tigo, and shareholders of the operator: Empresas Publicas de Medellin (EPM) and Millicom International Cellular, and the Superintendence of Industry and Commerce.

The meeting produced two solutions: recapitalisation or stake dilution for EPM. Through recapitalising the Tigo will require an investment of US$150 million, and both parties chipping in US$75 million each.

However, if EPM cannot make the contribution, Millicom will pay the total of US$150 million and reduce EPMs stake in the operator, currently, EPM owns 51% and Millicom controls 49%. A final decision is expected on October 9.

Minister of ICT Mauricio Lizcano commented: The governments will is to maintain the operation of the company, and thus preserve the connectivity of 12.5 million users and the employment of the 15,000 collaborators who work [for the company] directly and indirectly. Whatever decision is made, in no case should the service be stopped.
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.
Lawrence Larry Beron, the Jefferson native known for playing the fictional creator of the most garish and lurid king cakes in the area, died on Sept. 9 in Nashville at the age of 66.

In the early 2000s, Beron tried out the character of Larry Ragusa at local comedy shows, introducing the chain-smoking owner of a king cake shop outside Arabi known for its muffaletta king cakes and increasingly absurd concoctions to audiences.

Beron, along with director David White and other actors, filmed a series of 11 commercials between 2011-2012, filled with plenty of family drama with Ragusas lyin, thievin brother Vincent. In the years since, the videos have become unfortunately prophetic, with Rouses even selling their own muffuletta king cake unironically.

Though the last commercial wrapped more than 10 years ago, New Orleans hadnt forgotten about their favorite backwards-cap wearing baker. Dirty Coast paid homage to him with a Larry Ragusa T-shirt earlier this year, and Gambit checked in with Beron  and Ragusa  in February.

Deep in the grip of cancer, Larry was delighted when a friend texted him a picture of a Larry Ragusa T-shirt worn by a patron at this year's Jazz Fest, his obituary reads.

Beron was born and raised in the New Orleans area before his family moved to Holland when he was in high school. He was active in his high school theater and played Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls. According to his obituary, in 1984, he made it to the final New Orleans round of Showtimes search for the Funniest Person in America but was beaten out by some rando named Ellen DeGeneres.

Beron returned to Louisiana after high school. He then graduated from Louisiana State University and worked as a landman for Shell Oil Company for two decades. Acting remained a part of his life, and over the years he landed roles in Treme, Beyond a Reasonable Doubt, a Bonnie and Clyde miniseries and more.

Following his time in Holland, Beron became a World War II buff, and he spent time volunteering to build the Higgins landing craft and refurbish the Higgins PT Boat, which the World War II Museum in New Orleans currently displays.

Larry's outsized personality was loved and appreciated by all that knew him, his obituary reads.

According to his obituary, there will be a local memorial for Beron this fall.
St. John the Baptist Parish Judge Jeff Perilloux of 40th Judicial District Court leaves after turning himself into the St. John Parish Jail in LaPlace, La., Tuesday, June 26, 2018. Perilloux has been charged with three felony counts of indecent behavior with a juvenile and one count of misdemeanor sexual battery for allegedly sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl and groping two other teenagers.
What appears to be a stand-off involving operators, the regulator and the countrys finance ministry over spectrum prices looks set to continue in Mexico.

The finance ministry has rejected, apparently for the sixth time, a proposal to reduce the costs of the radio spectrum by regulator the Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones (IFT).

In its plans for the for fiscal year 2024, the ministry, Secretaria de Hacienda y Credito Publico (SHCP), has rejected two proposals from the regulator: firstly that operators pay only 1% of their income for the rights to use frequency bands; and secondly that the prices of the bands be adjusted in accordance with international standards for those companies with a stake of less than 25% in the mobile market.

Instead the price of spectrum in Mexico  said to be up to 89% higher than countries like Germany, Italy, Greece and the Netherlands  is to be frozen.

According to local news resource Expansion, operator AT&T has this year returned part of its AWS and 850MHz spectrum and may yet return more. In addition 5G network rollout could be hit.

Such eventualities would be an issue for end users, of course, but would also hit government finances if, as expected, the public deficit grows by 2024.

The IFT had planned what is known as the IFT-12 tender for this year, focusing on 5G-ready spectrum. However, the finance ministrys decision might force it to rethink its plans.

However, the IFT is not giving up just yet. According to Expansion it will appeal to the countrys legislative branch, which could still modify the final version of the spectrum rights law.
The newspapers project examining the future of south Louisiana at a time of climate change, sea level rise and intensifying storms paints a stark picture of the challenges ahead.

Read the full story here and see our interactive maps breaking down the risks by parish here.

Here are five key takeaways from the project:

A disappearing coast

Louisiana may be the state most at risk from climate change, and we are not prepared. Accelerated sea level rise will combine with long-existing threats, such as erosion and subsidence, to further peel away at the states coast. Louisiana could lose up to another 800 square miles by 2050  and far more in the decades beyond, a new analysis of state data shows. To put that in perspective, New Orleans is 170 square miles. That loss would be on top of the 2,000 square miles that has vanished since the 1930s, which is roughly the land area of Delaware. Much will depend on how the state, nation and world respond to climate change. Lowering emissions around the globe could head off the most severe projections of rising seas.
his work is supported with a grant funded by the Walton Family Foundation and administered by the Society of Environmental Journalists.

Email Mark Schleifstein at mschleifstein@theadvocate.com or follow him on Twitter, @MSchleifstein.
Faimon Roberts III covers rural communities in Louisiana. His work is supported by a reporting grant from the Microsoft Journalism Initiative and is administered by the Greater New Orleans Foundation.

He can be reached at froberts@theadvocate.com.
Only days after the operator announced the roll-out of commercial 5G services in Addis Ababa, comes news that Ethio Telecom is planning satellite network upgrades with the help of satellite networking technology, solutions and services company Gilat.

Gilat announced this week that it had received a contract for satellite network modernisation from Ethiopias state-owned operator. Gilats SkyEdge II-c with hundreds of Capricorn and Gemini VSATs will be used to enable enhanced satellite-based 4G cellular backhaul capabilities and enterprise communications for remote regions of the country.

Gilat say that the SkyEdge II-c VSAT network platform enables service providers to deliver a wide range of advanced, high-speed services to diverse markets.

As for the VSATs themselves, the Capricorn family consists of high-performance, highly efficient VSATs ideal for vertical markets that demand high throughput and high-speed services, such as 4G/5G cellular backhauling and mobility. The Gemini family consists of high-throughput VSATs designed to enable high-speed broadband internet services for the enterprise and consumer markets.

"As part of our modernisation process, we carefully evaluated our options," says Mr Tesfaye Tadesse Woldesemayat, Chief Network Infrastructure Officer at Ethio Telecom. "Gilats technology, with its long history of proven satellite-based cellular backhaul experience, proved to be the right choice to enable reliable and efficient mobile connectivity and enterprise communications to enable a bright future for the people of Ethiopia."
3 Floyds has announced when Dark Lord Day will take place next year.

The annual festival celebrating the once-a-year release of the acclaimed Dark Lord Russian Imperial Stout draws thousands of craft beer aficionados from around the world.

Dark Lord Day is slated for May 18 next year. Tickets, which often sell out fast, will go on sale Feb. 17.

Founded in Hammond in 1996, 3 Floyds was at the vanguard of the craft beer movement. Now located at 9750 Indiana Parkway in a sleepy industrial park in Munster, it's won widespread acclaim for its aggressively hopped and "not normal" craft beers.

3 Floyds, known for its heavy metal aesthetic and beers like Alpha King and Zombie Dust, was named the best brewery in the world several times by RateBeer, which also ranked Dark Lord as one of the best beers in the world.

It's a demonic Russian-Style Imperial Stout brewed with coffee, Mexican vanilla and Indiana sugar that defies description. It's a potent beer that clocks in at 15% ABV.

3 Floyds releases the molassesy, big-bodied Russian Imperial stout to the masses every spring, along with a few unique variants like French Vanilla Militia or Bourbon Barrel Aged Vanilla Bean.

The brewery celebrates the annual release with a daylong festival that includes heavy metal food trucks and craft beer connoisseurs swapping rare bottles from around the world. Last year's headliners included Cannibal Corpse, Municipal Waste, Enforce and Pelican.

Dozens of craft breweries from across the Midwest typically take part in the annual festival. It's so big that nearby breweries like 18th Street and Flossmoor Station typically have special releases of their own that weekend to capitalize off all the craft beer lovers who come to the area.

The brewery closed its popular taproom in Munster during the pandemic but continues on as a production brewery that's widely distributed across Northwest Indiana, greater Chicagoland and the Midwest.
HAMMOND  A 42-year-old man was sentenced to more than 12 years in prison after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of cocaine, United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson announced Wednesday.

Johnny Wilbourn, of Hammond, sold cocaine on three separate occasions throughout August and September 2020, the U.S. attorney's office said in a news release.

During a search of Wilbourns home, law enforcement found fentanyl, a cutting agent and a digital scale, the U.S. attorney's office said.

Wilbourn was sentenced to three years of supervised release after he serves his sentence. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of the Hammond Police Department and the DEAs North Central Laboratory in Chicago. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Toth.
CROWN POINT  A Chicago man shot a woman's boyfriend following an argument over her, according to charges filed Wednesday in Lake County Court.

Marque Jackson, 47, was charged with attempted murder and battery. The attempted murder charge carries a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison.

Jackson was talking to a woman around 4 a.m. Sept. 2 at the Ridge Road Speedway gas station in Munster, according to the charges.

The woman's boyfriend told police that Jackson had been talking to his girlfriend a lot earlier in the night at Mark O's Bar & Grill, located at 435 Ridge Road.

The boyfriend took issue with Jackson talking to her, and he approached Jackson in the Speedway parking lot, police said.

The men got into a fight after the initial confrontation, charges said, and Jackson got a gun out and started shooting at the man.

The man backed into Ridge Road in an attempt to escape, according to the charges.

Jackson then got into his car "drove across Ridge Road to (the man's) location, and began shooting at him as he tried to get away," according to a probable-cause affidavit.

The affidavit said the man suffered a bullet wound to his lower cheek and was treated at University of Chicago Medical Center.

Jackson remains at large and has a warrant out for his arrest, according to court records.

The incident was the third shooting in the Region over Labor Day weekend.
MERRILLVILLE  Three new districts dedicated to promoting transit-oriented development are on track to be created this year after a public hearing Thursday began the formal process intended to culminate with State Budget Committee ratification of Transit Development District boundaries in south Hammond, downtown Gary and Porter.

The draft boundaries presented at the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authoritys public hearing had distinct qualities, ranging from revitalization of downtown Gary to promotion of walkable communities in Hammond and leveraging the proximity of the state and national parks in Porter.

The TDDs are each anchored by commuter railroad stations, which are seen as potential catalysts for growth in the style of station-area development in the Illinois suburbs of Chicago.

This is an opportunity to supercharge that, RDA consultant Aaron Kowalski said of TDDs, in which incremental growth in property and income taxes will accrue to an account to be leveraged for promotion development in them.

Kowalski, of the firm MKSK, presented each of the TDDs at Thursday's hearing. They had previously been made public at evening forums in recent weeks.

Gary Metro Center

The Gary Metro Center TDD would cover 309 acres downtown and target infrastructure improvements, blight elimination and community-focused redevelopment, according to the presentation made earlier this month.

The proposed TDD has roughly a T shape, with the station at the top near the center. The district would extend west to include the campus of Methodist Hospitals Northlake. It would extend east to include the U.S. Steel Yard stadium and Buffington Park. The southward extension would include much of the properties along and near Broadway, down to 15th Avenue.

The Gary Metro TDD will benefit from funding made available by the General Assembly and Gov. Eric Holcomb in Senate Bill 434, which offers matching funds to the city for demolition of blighted downtown property.

Rachelle Ceasar, director of constituent services in Mayor Jerome Princes administration, praised the effort to create the TDD.

The city thinks this is the best opportunity to get the highest return, she said.

Dune Park

The proposed Dune Park TDD extends southward from the South Shore station to include areas west, east and south of Indiana 49s interchange with U.S. 20. It would also take in another undeveloped area further west along U.S. 20.

It would cover 281 acres.

The TDD boundaries were set to support three future investment strategies, according to an RDA presentation made in the town of Porter: to take advantage of the waterfront location, the Indiana Dunes national and state parks, and to promote development to benefit residents and commuters.

The areas potential as a gateway to the dunes parks will play a significant role, Kowalski said Thursday.

Town of Porter Development Director Michael Barry said the TDD would support the towns new comprehensive plan.

It dovetails into a lot of development were working on, he said.

South Hammond

The 206-acre South Hammond TDD has the most spread-out boundaries to date. Its various parts are in a triangular-shaped area with one corner at the Borman Expressway near the Little Calumet River, another corner at the site of the former Gavit High School and the third corner just north of Harrison Park along Hohman Avenue. The TDD itself would include stretches along the West Lake line as it moves north along Lyman Avenue and then Hohman. It would travel east along 165th Street to take in a significant portion of its intersection with Columbia Avenue, stretching south to 169th Street.

The TDD would be intended to benefit the residential character of the area, and incorporate features like the Erie Lackawanna trail.

We also think the station specifically will be used by Purdue Northwest, Hammond Chief of Staff Phil Taillon said.

Hammond realtor Nathan Reeder encouraged the RDA to expand the TDD along 173rd.

Were leaving 115 acres or so on the table, he said, referring to the 320-acre maximum size of a TDDs initial area.

Next steps

The RDA and its consultants are taking those and other ideas into consideration as it tweaks the boundaries in advance of a second public hearing and vote on Oct. 12. After that, the final district maps will be submitted to the State Budget Committee for its consideration in October of November.

Seven TDDs have already been established: Hammond Gateway, Munster Ridge Road, Munster Dyer Main Street, East Chicago, Gary Miller, Portat/Ogden Dunes and Michigan City. Information on TDDs, including maps, slideshows and videos of public information sessions, is available at nwitdd.com.
VALPARAISO  A member of the Porter County Board of Health was removed from her position due to comments she made about the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine, according to members of the county commission.

The former board member, Jessica Jepsen, wrote a comment in the Lake Central Class of 2003 Reunion Facebook group Aug. 21 pertaining to the death of a former classmate. She speculated the cause of death could be due to receiving the vaccine.

"I hope this is not a case of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine," Jepsen wrote. "As a county health board member we are receiving lots of peer reviewed studies from the community about how deadly this vaccine is."

Jepsen's comments created contention on social media. The Board of Health released a statement on Facebook Aug. 30 that said, "Personal opinions of Board of Health members do not represent the position of the Porter County Board of Health or the Porter County Health Department as a whole."

The vote was not on the meeting agenda, but Porter County Commissioner Jim Biggs, R-North, introduced the topic at the end of the meeting prior to public comment. He made a motion to remove Jepsen from the board.

"Her stated and written comments, or views, are contrary to the statutory duties of the health board," Biggs said. "We cannot allow that."

However, Biggs said he does not think everything Jepsen said was wrong. He said they will not replace her with a "voice that will not dissent and just go with the crowd."

Jepsen was named to the board in January. She was a vocal critic of mask mandates during the pandemic.

Commissioner Laura Shurr Blaney, D-South, seconded the motion.

"There is a certain decorum level that needs to be upheld on any board," Blaney said. "Whether we agree with the opinions of the board members or not is irrelevant to that professionalism."

Commissioner Barb Regnitz, R-Center, said when someone is speaking on behalf of a company, board or entity, they have certain responsibilities with their first amendment right of free speech.

"The problem is there's no context on social media. People can take that social media post and do anything they want with it," Regnitz said. "That doesn't mean you can't express your views, but they should be expressed in the board's setting and not on social media."

Jepsen said she stands by the comment she made on the Facebook post about her classmate's death

She said she has asked the attorney of the Board of Health, David Hollenback, how she failed to perform her duty as a board member. Per Indiana Code, a health board member can be removed if they fail to show up to three consecutive board meetings, four board meetings in a calendar year or fail to perform the statutory duties of the office. She also alleged the board violated multiple statutes related to appointing a new person to the health administrator role on the board after a former member stepped down.

Hollenback said he did not play a role in the decision to remove Jepsen and directed reporters to the county commission. He denied any wrongdoing on behalf of the board's legal operations.

"The actions of the board of health have been in full compliance with Indiana law," Hollenback said.

Jepsen said thinks her situation has been politicized since May, when she said she first introduced various studies at a Board of Health meeting that allege the COVID-19 vaccine is not effective. She said she believes the vaccine is unsafe and said the studies prove her point, but did not get any response or feedback from the county commissioners or health department board members.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention maintains vaccination as the best protection against COVID-19-related hospitalization and death.

"I have no attachment being on the board or not," Jepsen said. "I am about supporting the community to the best of my ability with whatever information I can."

Kathy DeWitt, of Valparaiso, was present at the board meeting and said she applauds the commissioners for their decision to remove Jepsen. She praised the staff for their response during the pandemic and said they continue to provide thorough and accurate information to the citizens of the county.

The staff at this health department are true heroes, DeWitt said last week. Dr. [Maria] Stamp has done an amazing job as the health officer. Some of these members were not qualified, or even in achieving the goals that have to do with the health and safety of our community.

PHOTOS: Porter County officials sworn in Porter County officials sworn in Porter County officials sworn in Porter County officials sworn in Porter County officials sworn in Porter County officials sworn in Porter County officials sworn in Porter County officials sworn in Porter County officials sworn in Porter County officials sworn in Porter County officials sworn in Porter County officials sworn in
The former director of the Indiana Department of Child Services departed for Hawaii Thursday to help with Maui wildfire recovery efforts in her new role as CEO of the American Red Cross in Indiana.

Terry Stigdon, who is a registered nurse, is expected to serve as an official liaison between the Red Cross and Hawaii elected officials representing the wildfire-impacted areas of Maui.

She joins more than 1,000 Red Cross disaster workers from across the country serving on the ground or remotely in response to the Aug. 8 hurricane-driven firestorm in Lahaina, Hawaii, that killed at least 115 people and destroyed an estimated 2,200 buildings.

Records show the Red Cross, along with its partners, has provided more than 530,000 meals and snacks to families affected by the firestorm, along with some 126,000 overnight emergency shelter and hotel stays in Maui and Oahu.

Donations to support the Red Cross recovery efforts can be made online at RedCross.org/Indiana.

Photos show Lahaina before and after wildfire devastation
An influential interest group in Indiana Republican politics has decided which candidate it's backing in the packed primary for the 2024 GOP gubernatorial nomination.

The Club for Growth's political action committee recently announced it is supporting U.S. Sen. Mike Braun in his bid to succeed term-limited Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb.

The organization  led by former U.S. Rep. David McIntosh, R-Muncie, who lost in his 2000 gubernatorial run to Democratic incumbent Gov. Frank O'Bannon  said Braun is best because he's consistently supported conservative, pro-growth policies as a former member of the Indiana House and, since 2019, in the U.S. Senate.

"Sen. Mike Braun is a proven conservative fighter who will stand up and protect Hoosier values as Indiana's next governor  we are proud to endorse him in the race," McIntosh said. "We will do whatever it takes to ensure Sen. Braun is elected governor."

The Club for Growth PAC routinely supports political candidates who favor reducing government spending, cutting taxes, promoting school choice, replacing the existing Social Security and Medicare programs, and eliminating trade protections for domestic manufacturers, such as the steel industry.

In a statement, Braun welcomed the endorsement from the billionaire-backed organization, which most recently worked to keep Republican former Gov. Mitch Daniels from challenging Congressman Jim Banks for Indiana's 2024 U.S. Senate nomination.

"As a main street entrepreneur and the only candidate with a proven conservative record when it comes to less spending, lower taxes and reducing regulations, I am proud to have the endorsement of Club for Growth," Braun said.

Braun pledged that if he's elected governor next year he will "continue to challenge the status quo and offer solutions that will create jobs, lower the cost of health care, improve our schools and put all Hoosiers on the path to prosperity."

The senator is competing against four other politically experienced or well-funded candidates for the Republican nomination: Former Indiana Commerce Secretary Brad Chambers; Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch; Fort Wayne businessman Eric Doden; and former Attorney General Curtis Hill.

Hoosier Republicans will select their party's gubernatorial nominee at the May 7, 2024, primary election.

Gallery: Take a virtual tour of Indiana's state parks Brown County State Park Chain O' Lakes State Park Charlestown State Park Clifty Falls State Park Falls of the Ohio State Park Fort Harrison State Park Harmonie State Park Lincoln State Park McCormick's Creek State Park Mounds State Park O'Bannon Woods State Park Ouabache State Park Pokagon State Park Potato Creek State Park Prophetstown State Park Shades State Park Shakamak State Park Spring Mill State Park Summit Lake State Park Tippecanoe River State Park Turkey Run State Park Versailles State Park White River State Park Whitewater Memorial State Park
Whether you are a plaintiff, prosecutor or defense counsel, attorneys are always looking for new precedents, Mark Vlasic, an adjunct professor of law at Georgetown University and former United Nations war crimes prosecutor, said in an email. This field of law is shifting so this move will no doubt make some parties quite nervous about how cases are resolved.

The Schiele works are: Russian War Prisoner (1916), a watercolor and pencil on paper piece valued at $1.25 million, which was seized from the Art Institute; Portrait of a Man (1917), a pencil on paper drawing valued at $1 million and seized from the Carnegie Museum of Art; and Girl With Black Hair (1911), a watercolor and pencil on paper work valued at $1.5 million and taken from Oberlin. The art will be transported to New York at a later date.

In a statement, the Art Institute said: We are confident in our legal acquisition and lawful possession of this work. The piece is the subject of civil litigation in federal court, where this dispute is being properly litigated and where we are also defending our legal ownership.

The Carnegie said that it was committed to acting in accordance with ethical, legal, and professional requirements and norms, and that it would of course cooperate fully with inquiries from the relevant authorities.

The Oberlin museum did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Before Wednesdays actions, the Grunbaum heirs had filed civil claims not just against the three museums, but also against the Museum of Modern Art and the Morgan Library and Museum, both in New York City; the Santa Barbara Museum of Art in California; and several individual defendants. The plaintiffs in this case had filed claims seeking the return of other Schiele works at other museums.
This article has been updated to include new information about the death toll in Libya.

This week, the worst storm in recent memory pounded the Green Mountains in eastern Libya with rain, pushing two poorly maintained, half-century-old dams to their limit. Just before 3 a.m. on Sept. 11, the first dam collapsed. An enormous wall of water surged into a riverbed that bisects the coastal city of Derna. It stalled briefly at the second dam eight miles downstream and then scooped that and everything else up in its path, tossing the debris into the sea. By dawn, a third of the city was gone, leaving thousands missing. The minimum number of dead is likely to be at least 10,000 but could be double that, local officials say.

Many people in Libya are calling what happened a tsunami, not a flood, to attempt to capture the physics and power of the devastation. Dernas nearly 100,000 residents, now stranded, urgently need shelter, food, water and medical care. They need temporary bridges to replace those that were washed out and engineers to rebuild all the roads and fix parts of the citys operational but battered port. They need cellphone service to reach family members and friends and body bags for the corpses being pulled out of the sea. Thousands are homeless, and officials fear other dams in the area may also burst.

The scale of destruction would be daunting for any well-run and well-equipped country to handle. For Libya it will be impossible, given the disaster zones sudden isolation, lack of equipment and depth of the countrys political dysfunction. Since 2014, Libyans have lived with two competing governments locked in a power struggle that will almost certainly slow the large-scale recovery effort to come. On Wednesday the Egyptian military was on its way with heavy equipment, as well as at least one amphibious craft carrier from Italy, Libyas former colonial power. But its the United States unique and tragic history in Libya, its technical expertise and depth of resources in the region, that create a moral obligation for America to step into this breach.

Many Americans will ask: Why should we care? In 2011, the United States spearheaded the international effort to save the city of Benghazi from attack by Libyas longtime dictator, Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, a well-intentioned move that fell into the trap of mission creep. Eventually, a NATO-led intervention overturned Mr. Gaddafis regime. The United States left most of the rebuilding to its European allies. It focused its efforts on promoting democracy over state building, a decision that ironically helped pull down Libyas early democratic gains.
American liberals have led the campaign to reduce child poverty since Franklin Roosevelt, and its a proud legacy. But we have long had a blind spot.

We are often reluctant to acknowledge one of the significant drivers of child poverty  the widespread breakdown of family  for fear that to do so would be patronizing or racist. Its an issue largely for working-class whites, Blacks and Hispanics, albeit most prevalent among African Americans. But just as you cant have a serious conversation about poverty without discussing race, you also cant engage unless you consider single-parent households. After all:

Families headed by single mothers are five times as likely to live in poverty as married-couple families.

Children in single-mother homes are less likely to graduate from high school or earn a college degree. They are more likely to become single parents themselves, perpetuating the cycle.

Almost 30 percent of American children now live with a single parent or with no parent at all. One reason for the sensitivities is large racial disparities: Single parenting is less common in white and Asian households, but only 38 percent of Black children live with married parents.

The data present some uncomfortable realities, writes Melissa S. Kearney, an economist at the University of Maryland, in an important book on this topic to be published next week. Two-parent families are beneficial for children, she adds. Places that have more two-parent families have higher rates of upward mobility. Not talking about these facts is counterproductive.

We liberals often perceive the world through prisms of privilege, but we rarely discuss one of the most important privileges of all  and its the title of Kearneys book, The Two-Parent Privilege.

Let me interrupt this column with a shower of caveats. Many children raised in part by single moms do extraordinarily well; one was a two-term president in the 1990s and another served two terms until 2017. And I think the big driver for the rise in single-parent households is bad decisions by policymakers that led to mass incarceration and a collapse of earnings for working-class men.
The Republican-led prosecution rested its case on Wednesday for impeaching the attorney general of Texas, Ken Paxton, ending on a central claim: that an Austin real estate investor paid for Mr. Paxtons home renovations in exchange for favors.

The testimony about countertops and cabinetry  and a bill for $121,000  came on the seventh day of the trial. More than a dozen witnesses, including Mr. Paxtons most senior aides, described how the Republican attorney general had repeatedly used his office to help the real estate investor, Nate Paul, as he was facing a federal criminal investigation and other legal troubles.

It had appeared, at the start, that the day would focus on another allegation: that Mr. Paul had helped Mr. Paxton conduct an extramarital affair. The prosecution called the woman, Laura Olson, a former staff member to a Republican state senator and a witness whose testimony had been highly anticipated.

Mr. Paxtons lawyers immediately objected, and Ms. Olson waited around in the Texas Capitol, mostly at a table in the legislative library. She declined a request for comment.
Mexicos Congress is usually meant to be a venue for solemn presentations on budgets and other serious legislation. But this week, lawmakers heard testimony from a self-proclaimed U.F.O. researcher who brought with him some unusual objects: two mummified specimens that he claimed were the bodies of extraterrestrial beings.

Really.

The presentation of the mummies on Tuesday by Jaime Maussan, a journalist who has speculated widely on aliens, caused jaws to drop and memes to multiply around the country. The two specimens, which Mr. Maussan said were found in Peru in 2017, were tiny in stature and chalky in color; each had three-fingered hands and what appeared to be shrunken or desiccated heads.

These are nonhuman beings who are not part of our terrestrial evolution, Mr. Maussan declared under oath, with a sign-language interpreter at his side.

The specimens, he added, had been buried at a remote site in Peru and were about 1,000 years old, according to carbon testing carried out by researchers at the National Autonomous University of Mexico.
The family of Evan Gershkovich, the Wall Street Journal reporter who has been detained in Russia since March, appealed on Wednesday for the United Nations help in bringing him home, urging world leaders who will soon be attending the U.N. General Assembly to join the call for his release.

Next week, world leaders will gather here to discuss many important issues, Mr. Gershkovichs father, Mikhail, said at a briefing in New York alongside the American ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield.

He called on those leaders to stand with his son, saying Evan Gershkovich represented the basic right to free press and freedom of expression and that these rights are bedrock principles of the United Nations.

The United States will not rest until Evan and Paul and all wrongfully detained Americans are home safe and sound, Ms. Thomas-Greenfield said, referring to Paul Whelan, a former Marine serving a 16-year sentence on what U.S. officials say are bogus espionage charges.
Who knew New York University even had a dedicated art museum?

Probably not the tens of thousands of visitors who have made their way to exhibitions at the Grey Art Gallery, tucked away for nearly half a century in the universitys arts and science center on Washington Square. But the Grey has been the guardian of the universitys trove of art treasures, though that wasnt obvious by its name.

That is about to change. Grey Art Gallery is moving several blocks east to a larger, more prominent space at 18 Cooper Square. It will reopen next year on March 2 as the Grey Art Museum to better reflect its history and mission, with the inaugural show Americans in Paris: Artists Working in Postwar France, 1946-1962.

Well be much more visible, said Lynn Gumpert, its director since 1997. With an illustrious collecting and exhibition track record  in 1983, it was the first U.S. institution to host a major show of Frida Kahlo  the Grey nonetheless has often been confused for a commercial gallery. Were known nationally and internationally among the art crowd, but still lots of people in New York dont know that N.Y.U. has a museum, Gumpert said.

Image A rendering of the new museums interior, which will be in a larger and more prominent space than the current gallery. Credit... via Ennead Architects

Moving to the busy crossroads of NoHo, the East Village and the Bowery on Cooper Square, the Grey will have greater street presence in an expansive ground-floor space of a 1901 brick-and-iron landmark building owned by N.Y.U. The new space increases the size of Greys exhibition galleries by 40 percent and gives the museum a study center for the first time. It has been designed by Ennead Architects partner Richard Olcott  who previously led the renovation of the Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven.
Some museums contain artworks that were looted by the Nazis during World War II. Others have amassed collections of objects stolen by colonial powers. Yet others saw their own collections plundered as the spoils of war.

The Mauritshuis in The Hague has it all.

Founded in the 17th century by a Dutch prince who governed a colony in what is now Brazil, the museum once held many so-called ethnographic objects in its cabinet of curiosities. During the Napoleonic era, the French army stole its entire painting collection. And the Mauritshuis still holds two dozen works identified as Nazi-looted art, for which rightful owners have not been found.

The whole history of the museum is very closely related to war booty and looted art, said the Mauritshuiss director, Martine Gosselink, which is why she decided to mount, Loot: 10 Stories, an exhibition running through Jan. 7, 2024, that explores the history of dubious museum acquisitions.

We want to show that theres no one-size-fits-all solution, Gosselink said. Every case has its own history, every object has its own biography, and every object needs its own approach.
One of the biggest sticking points was the use of concrete, which some residents found ugly and drab, Barbara Laber said. But her father was very deliberately aware of the material, she added. He chose concrete to be visually neutral. Its not a valuable material, its purely functional. Another rock type, like marble, she added, would have carried other meanings and made the pyramid more monumental.

Klaus Schlecht, a member of the Wemding Time Pyramid Foundation, who knew the artist for many years, had another interpretation: Laber was playing with the words dual meaning. He may have been seeking to make time itself more concrete, more tangible, Schlecht said.

In the late 20th century, Laber was not the only German artist exploring times reach across generations. From 1982 to 1987, the artist Joseph Beuys planted thousands of oak trees in the city of Kassel, central Germany, for a work called 7,000 Oaks. And in 1996, the sculptor Bogomir Ecker created Tropfsteinmaschine, an artificial stalactite dripping for 500 years in the Hamburger Kunsthalle museum, in Hamburg.

Since then, several other long-term art projects have begun across Europe and beyond. A few of their custodians attended the ceremony on Saturday: They included the overseer of a musical performance in Halberstadt, Germany, that will last 639 years; of a poem that is unfolding over centuries on the cobblestones of a Dutch citys streets; of an annual pilgrimage to maintain a Bronze Age chalk horse on a hillside in Oxfordshire, England; and of a giant clock in Texas that will tick for 10 millenniums.

Until recently, all these projects operated independently. But Michael Munker, whose day job is running a medical device firm in the Netherlands, recently established a network called L.T.A.P. (Long-term Art Projects) to share knowledge between custodians.
Corinne Bailey Rae dynamites her own musical past and embraces a larger historical one on her new album, Black Rainbows.

With her self-titled 2006 debut, Bailey Rae established herself as an agile, airy-voiced pop songwriter; it reached No. 1 in her home country, Britain. Her big hit single, Put Your Records On, cheerfully but unmistakably called for celebrating a Black heritage.

Bailey Rae hasnt rushed her albums. Her second one, The Sea in 2010, dealt with her grief  at 29  at the sudden death of her first husband, the saxophonist Jason Rae; the songs reflected on time, love and sorrow. For her 2016 album, The Heart Speaks in Whispers, she followed record-company advice to return to polished pop-soul love songs. By then she had married S.J. Brown, who has co-produced Black Rainbows with her.

On Black Rainbows, Bailey Rae boldly jettisons both pop structures and R&B smoothness to consider the scars and triumphs of Black culture. We long to arc our arm through history, she sings in A Spell, a Prayer, the albums opening song. To unpick every thread of pain.
Americans have long been skeptical of big business. Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Harry Truman all tried to constrain the power of large companies. Their efforts were part of a national culture that long emphasized individual freedom.

In the 1960s, however, a group of conservative scholars began arguing that large corporations had been unfairly maligned. These scholars  led by Robert Bork, then an obscure law professor  made the case that big business was often efficient and innovative. And if a large company did try to take advantage of consumers, these scholars said, a competitor could swoop in and lure away those consumers.

For years, Bork and his allies failed to persuade Washington to embrace their views. But after the U.S. economy struggled during the 1970s, policymakers became worried that antitrust laws were keeping American companies from competing with Japanese and European rivals. Slowly, the Bork view won converts, among both Republicans and Democrats. Since the 1980s, that view has dominated, allowing corporations to grow much larger.

I wanted to tell you this history today because its a crucial backdrop to the Google antitrust trial that began this week. That trial is the most significant attempt in decades to undo the Bork consensus.
Federal prosecutors charged Hunter Biden, the presidents son, with lying about his drug use when he purchased a handgun in 2018. The indictment could lead to a high-profile trial of Biden next year, coinciding with his fathers re-election campaign.

The charges  which carry a sentence of up to 25 years in prison, though are rarely prosecuted  were brought by the special counsel David Weiss after a plea deal between Biden and government prosecutors collapsed last month. That agreement would have resolved the Justice Departments long-running investigation without Biden serving prison time.

The defunct deal would have also resolved an investigation into Bidens late filing of his tax returns for several years. Prosecutors could still file charges against Biden in that case. They have also signaled that they are continuing to investigate his foreign business ties.

House Republicans have stepped up efforts to use Hunter Bidens work abroad to build a case for impeaching his father. Speaker Kevin McCarthy said on Tuesday that the House would proceed with a formal impeachment investigation focused on whether President Biden and his family benefited from what Republicans have contended were corrupt activities by Hunter Biden. No evidence has surfaced publicly implicating the president in any wrongdoing.
Yelling at Michael Barr, the Federal Reserves top banking regulator, has never been particularly effective, his friends and co-workers will tell you. That hasnt stopped Americas biggest banks, their lobbying groups and even his own colleagues, who have reacted to his proposal to tighten and expand oversight of the nations large lenders with a mix of incredulity and outrage.

There is no justification for significant increases in capital at the largest U.S. banks, Kevin Fromer, the president of the Financial Services Forum, said in a statement after regulators released the draft rules spearheaded by Mr. Barr. The proposal would push up the amount of easy-access money that banks need to have at the ready, potentially cutting into their profits.

Even before its release, rumors of what the draft contained triggered a lobbying blitz: Bank of Americas lobbyists and those affiliated with banks including BNP Paribas, HSBC and TD Bank descended on Capitol Hill. Lawmakers sent worried letters to the Fed and peppered its officials with questions about what the proposal would contain.

The formal proposal has since come under attack. On Wednesday, every Republican lawmaker on the House Financial Services Committee wrote to Mr. Barr and two other bank regulators demanding that it be withdrawn. Senator Mark Warner, a Virginia Democrat, told Politico on Thursday that he feared it could contribute to a perfect storm of stressors on the financial system, along with high interest rates and a commercial real estate slump.
Call it a win for the little species, though all kinds of endangered animals and plants stand to benefit.

A sweeping legal settlement approved this week has put the Environmental Protection Agency on a binding path to do something it has barely done before, by its own acknowledgment: Adequately consider the effects on imperiled species when it evaluates pesticides and take steps to protect them.

When you think about what a pesticide is, its supposed to kill pests, said Michal Freedhoff, assistant administrator for the agencys Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. It is difficult to design a process where it kills only the things it is supposed to kill.

In the same area as crop-damaging insects, there may be threatened bumblebees and butterflies; among unwanted weeds, endangered plants. At the same time, pesticides help farmers produce enough food to meet the demands of a growing population. And they need a wide variety of pesticides to defend their crops, they say, as insects and weeds gain resistance to various chemicals.
At the center of it all

Clean energy investments by Masdar could help Uzbekistan, a vast, landlocked country in Central Asia where the population and its energy needs are growing rapidly, rely less on the fossil fuels that make up nearly all of its energy arsenal today.

Its government relies entirely on foreign funding to build up its energy infrastructure, however, and will take what it can get. That means wind and solar farms from Masdar, but also new gas plants financed by two other U.A.E. state-run companies, TAQA and Mubadala. (Those two companies, along with Adnoc, are also part owners of Masdar).

Al-Jaber is at the center of it all. He said he hoped to get countries to agree on a tripling of global renewable energy capacity at the climate talks. Emirati funding of both renewable and fossil energy is playing out elsewhere, too. In Azerbaijan, a recent Adnoc investment in an offshore oil field overshadowed Masdars expansion in renewable energy.

Adnocs projected investments will lead to more than 2.7 gigatons of carbon dioxide emissions, according to a 2022 report from Oil Change International. That is equivalent to more than a year of combined emissions from Germany and Japan, and is second in scope only to Qatars national energy company, which is building the worlds largest gas facility.
Ive seen things you people wouldnt believe, to borrow a line from Ridley Scotts 1982 shocker, Blade Runner. But Im a movie critic, so of course I have. And one of my favorite unbelievable visions is that of walking, talking, thinking and often terrifying robots, like the kind that both thrilled and scared me in the original Westworld and especially The Stepford Wives. In the 1970s, these creepfests offered a far bleaker view of our future world than the robot sidekicks in Star Wars that would soon overtake the culture and the film industry.

The movies have long been haunted by these fantastic machines, particularly those humanoid inventions that look unnervingly like us, be it the robot woman in Fritz Langs Metropolis (1927) or the duplicitous android in Scotts Alien (1979), ingenious creations that are virtually identical to a human, to borrow another quote from Blade Runner. More recently, though, another specter  artificial intelligence  has by turns captivated and alarmed the world, onscreen and off. In the latest Mission: Impossible flick, Tom Cruise battles a sentient A.I.; in the forthcoming postapocalyptic thriller The Creator, John David Washington plays an operative sent to retrieve an A.I. weapon that looks like an adorable kid.

Im keeping an open mind about The Creator even if artificial intelligence admittedly gives me the willies. I blame Stanley Kubrick. Im joking, sort of, but my bone-deep suspicions about A.I. havent deviated much since the eerily affectless voice of HAL 9000, the supercomputer in Kubricks 1968 freakout, 2001: A Space Odyssey, took up permanent residence in my head. Its HALs calm, measured, unrelenting voice I heard when I read the May 30 statement from more than 350 leaders in A.I. Mitigating the risk of extinction from A.I., it read, should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war.
Climate change denial must be maddening to Lonnie Thompson, a respected scientist who has scaled glaciers collecting evidence of global warming. But Dr. Thompson keeps a cool head in Canary, a documentary that patiently traces his groundbreaking efforts extracting ice cores from tropical mountaintops.

The film, directed by Danny OMalley and Alex Rivest, is a portrait of perseverance. Inspired by a student research opportunity to look at polar ice cores, Dr. Thompson wondered whether other parts of the world could also yield useful ice samples. To paraphrase George Bernard Shaw, some colleagues looked at tropical glaciers and asked why, while Dr. Thompson saw their potential for climatology and asked why not.
Led by Scorsese, the filmmakers aimed to be scrupulously authentic in the ways they depicted the Osage, down to the threads in their clothing. There was plenty of documentation: the Osage were rich enough to sit for portraits and even to make home movies  astronomically expensive at $800 a minute, said Jacqueline West, the films costume designer. Few people in the world could afford that, but they documented their lives and their travel and where they lived so beautifully. I relied on those.

The Osage always had an eye for luxe and color when it came to clothing and adornment, said Daniel C. Swan, an anthropology professor and curator emeritus at the University of Oklahoma who has written about the tribe. If you read the 16th- and 17th-century accounts of encounters with them, they had this air about them  we would say they had real style, he said.

By the early 20th century, the Osage were as au courant as Vogue editors. They had incredibly sophisticated palates, Swan said. They wore the finest French, Italian, New York fashion; they kept up with hairstyles and footwear. But perhaps the best example of their sartorial resplendence, and their culture, could be seen at weddings.

The wedding scene in Killers of the Flower Moon is a showstopper, with Mollie Kyle, the bride played by Gladstone, and her bridesmaid sisters in richly embroidered skirts, finger-woven belts and bespoke military coats, complete with brass buttons and braided epaulets. The look is topped off by towering 18-inch hats decorated with French ribbon and festooned with feathers dyed cyan or magenta. It feels fantastical, and it is utterly real.
It may be a cliche to suggest that a streaming original feels as if it were created to serve an algorithm, but rarely is a movie as openly besotted with patterns of data as Love at First Sight, on Netflix. Not only is the movie derivative, but its story actually pivots on the statistics of romance, and by extension the supposed romance of statistics.

As in 500 Days of Summer, the romance story whose fabric was recycled for this fleece pullover of a film, Love at First Sight features a narrator hyper-fixated on numerical values. Case in point: when we meet our two protagonists, Hadley (Haley Lu Richardson) and Oliver (Ben Hardy), the film encumbers us with a pedantic voice-over recitation of their heights, ages and average cellphone battery charges.
The problem is that the films, which are in Spanish and English, rely on typical horror movie stuff  a haunted house, angry ghosts, shape shifters, tableaus of corpses  to lift scripts that are across the board mediocre. The result is eye-popping but half-formed, more sketches than fully considered short takes. Its a surprise considering that the filmmakers mined Latin folkloric traditions from Argentina, Cuba and Mexico for material. More Latino horror is welcome, but better if it pushes boundaries, not walks them.

In the words of my Colombian grandmother, who introduced me to Universals horror movie monsters when I was a kid: Que lastima.

Satanic Hispanics

Rated R for buckets of blood and miles of manslaughter. Running time: 1 hour 45 minutes. In theaters.
Prosecutors say that in past years Mr. Winkler exceeded the limit on fluke, a spotted flat fish also known as summer flounder, by at least 200,000 pounds, and caught more black sea bass than was allowed.

He is accused of making hundreds of thousands of dollars in illicit deals with one of Montauks most venerable seafood institutions, Gosmans. The two men originally charged with him, Bryan and Asa Gosman, cut deals with the government and are expected to testify against him.

Gosmans Dock boasts sprawling restaurants and retail stores in addition to its wholesale business. For decades, it has been one of Long Islands largest suppliers of fresh fish, and has been a mainstay in Montauk, even as the fishing-village soul of the town has been overshadowed by big-spending tourists in something of a Hamptonification. That could change soon: Gosmans Dock is up for sale, priced at $45 million.

Mr. Winklers boat is still docked just behind the Gosmans complex. He runs a shoestring operation, working by himself on his 45-foot trawler as his legal bills mount. He has been out on a $100,000 bail bond for the past two years. His lawyers barred him from discussing the particulars of the case, or his motivations for fighting the government.
That conviction, the first of its kind in Europe, brings to mind the situation in El Salvador, where abortion is banned under all circumstances, including when the pregnant persons life or health is in danger and in cases of rape. Women who suffer miscarriages and stillbirths in El Salvador are sometimes accused of homicide and sentenced to years or even decades in prison.

Now that Roe has been overturned, U.S. abortion-rights advocates are bracing for cases like these to become increasingly common in America. A small but growing group of abortion abolitionists are calling for women who get abortions to be charged with murder and criminally punished  even put to death. Some Republican lawmakers are listening; this year alone, more than half a dozen states have introduced legislation that would classify abortion as homicide, a strategy experts believe could gain greater support should others fail. One such existing effort: a serious legal challenge to the Food and Drug Administrations nearly 25-year-old approval of mifepristone that threatens access to the drug across the country. (In mid-August, a federal appeals court panel upheld mifepristones approval but with significant restrictions on patients access to the drug. The ruling cannot go into effect until the Supreme Court weighs in.)

Amid these concerns, reproductive rights activists need to prepare for the possibility that testing for abortion drugs could happen here, too. Even the threat of such a test could have dire consequences for reproductive health, deepening distrust of the medical establishment and discouraging people from seeking care. Should prosecutors in Poland inspire copycats in American states, no health care provider should enable or support such a move.

The testing methods developed at Wroclaw employ whats called tandem mass spectrometry, a sophisticated analytical technique regarded as the gold standard for the detection and quantification of chemical compounds in biological material. For decades, the significant cost of mass spectrometers and the technical knowledge needed to maintain and service the machines confined them to highly specialized laboratories. But as the technology has evolved, experts say, its become easier to use and far more accessible.

Almost every toxicology lab that supports a coroners office or medical examiners office in the United States has several of these instruments, specifically for the purpose of finding drugs and drug metabolites in biological tissues of all kinds, said Dr. Glen P. Jackson, a professor of forensic and investigative science at West Virginia University. There are also many labs that work alongside emergency wards to identify poisons and toxins and drugs used in overdoses. It would be really quite easy, he said, for any of them to develop methods similar to those described in these papers.
Combating antisemitism requires a shift in perspective, I explained. It must sprout from a positive place. We must know what we are protecting from assault. We must be motivated far more by our love for the insights, wisdom and joy embedded in Jewish culture than by the fight against those who harbor an insane hatred of it.

We have a chance to renew that spirit in the weeks ahead, as the Jewish New Year presents its annual moment for deeply personal introspection and intensely communal reflection. In this stretch of the calendar, tradition tells us to engage in a heshbon hanefesh, an accounting of the soul  an evaluation of what one has and has not accomplished, what a person has and has not learned. The idea is that moving forward is possible only if people know whence they have come.

For me, such an accounting includes taking stock of what I have witnessed as special envoy of the noxious effects of antisemitism during the past 16 months on the job.

Two stark moments, in two very different places, illustrate what Ive seen  and the challenge to hold both the celebration and the fight simultaneously. The first was a trip this past spring to a centuries-old festival held in the weeks following Passover at the El Ghriba synagogue on the Tunisian island of Djerba. The synagogue, believed to be the oldest in Africa, is the spiritual center of a Jewish community that dates its roots back more than 2,000 years, to the time of Babylonian exile. Jews and non-Jews from throughout the world were present to witness this ancient festivity. I was accompanied by the American ambassador and a group of colleagues from the embassy. For all of us, irrespective of our faith traditions, the celebration was infectious. Our collective joy was heightened by our knowledge that we were participating in something ancient, that our contemporary happiness evoked centuries of history.

Yet just 24 hours later, in the exact spot where we had rejoiced, an attacker fatally shot two visitors and two security guards, and killed another guard at a naval base. Though the Tunisian government was reluctant to label this an antisemitic event, we had no doubt. This was designed to scare Jews, to keep them from coming to the celebration, to force them underground.
Crucially, both women were born in an era when nobody would have imagined their careers to be possible. Simmons calls this turnabout the unpredictability of opportunity. In her book, Up Home: One Girls Journey, she recalls a colleague telling her there would be no place for me in the profession I was so keen to pursue. Faust talks in her book, Necessary Trouble: Growing Up at Midcentury, about unexpected doors that open. As Faust told me, If someone had said to me when I was young, One day youll be the president of Harvard, Id have said, Dont be crazy. When Simmons was offered a post as president of Smith in 1995, she initially figured it had been a mistake.

In certain respects, Simmonss and Fausts pasts mirror each other: Born just two years apart in the postwar 1940s and raised in the segregated South, they both had mothers who suffered from long-term illnesses. Simmons was close to her mother, and Faust clashed with hers, but neither wanted anything resembling her mothers life. Both studied foreign languages, lived abroad for the first time during school, studied the humanities at Ivy League grad schools and entered academia.

But there were also big differences. Simmons, the youngest of 12 children born to Black sharecroppers in rural Texas, spent her early years in a two-bedroom shack with her parents sleeping in the common room. There was no running water. College was a pipe dream  and one shed have to pay for on her own. Honest, intimate and deeply affecting, her book recalls Anne Moodys classic memoir, Coming of Age in Mississippi, not just in the obvious biographical parallels but also in terms of its potential impact. This is a book youll want to pass on to all the young people in your life, no matter their background, just so they can have a little of Simmonss wise voice in their heads. Id urge every educator to assign Up Home to high school students or incoming college freshmen. Its that good.

So many people hear coming-of-age or bootstrap stories and think they get it, Simmons told me. But owing to the layers of issues I faced  deep in segregation, this sharecropping existence  people were doubly perplexed. Students especially kept asking how Simmons made her way to an elite institution. Simmons wrote the book, she said, for those students who believe theres no way for them to become a part of the world that theyre looking at through store windows.

For years  in fact, until a 1995 profile in The New York Times  Simmons kept her personal story private. Somewhere I was embarrassed about my background, she told me. Thats what poverty will do, especially when youre in the mix. How do you talk about living in a rat- and roach-infested dwelling when youre in a friends luxurious home? Its awkward at best.
Sometimes you do things that make you feel ashamed. It was the first day of the Republican convention in 2012, and I had nothing to write about, so I wrote a humor column mocking the Romney family for being perfect in every way. It was a hit with readers, but the afternoon it was published, I crossed paths with two of Mitt Romneys sons, and they looked at me with hurt in their eyes, which pierced me. Id ridiculed people for the sin of being admirable.

A few years later, before he was a senator, Romney asked me to come out to Utah to give a talk to a group he was convening. Its a pain to write a speech and get on a plane, but I did it in penance for my sins. Of course, all the Romneys were lovely to me, as is their nature. And I learned a lesson: The partisans may applaud if you ridicule those you admire, of any political stripe, but stay faithful to them.

We all struggle to be the best version of ourselves we can be, and Romneys struggle is now taking him into retirement and out of the Senate. On the way he gave us a gift, in the form of a series of conversations with The Atlantics McKay Coppins, who has written a book on him, excerpted in the magazine.

Romney puts on the record what so many of us have been hearing for years off the record  that the Republican Party has become a party of fakers, that its congressional leaders laugh at Donald Trump contemptuously behind his back while swooning over him before the cameras.
Our desire to be social with different people  including influencers and celebrities, or people who are living in a different place in a different way  can all play out on social media, because it feels like we are making a personal connection, she said.

Pablo J. Boczkowski, a professor of communications studies at Northwestern University, said that despite the belief that new technologies have a powerful influence, millions of clicks dont translate into people making a wholesale lifestyle change.

From the data that we have so far, there is no basis to say that social media have the ability to change behavior in that way, he said.

Although these small spaces arent a common choice, residents who do take the plunge are driven by real pressures. For people looking to live and work in big cities, the post-pandemic housing situation is dire. In Manhattan in June, the average rental price was $5,470, according to a report from the real-estate brokerage Douglas Elliman. Across the city, the average rent this month is $3,644, reports Apartments.com, a listing site.

The housing picture is similar in London. In the first three months of this year, the average asking rent in the British capital reached a record of about $3,165 a month, as residents who left the city during lockdown swarmed back.
Pledging a new, transparent, scientifically rigorous look at U.F.O.s, NASA on Thursday said it had appointed a director of research on the topic  and then kept the name of the director a secret for about seven hours.

The new position is part of NASAs response to recommendations made by an independent study team that the agency had convened. The panel looked at how to better gather and study information about unidentified anomalous phenomena, or U.A.P.  the modern term for U.F.O.s.

The panels report, released on Thursday, did not attempt to provide a definitive answer to whether galaxy-trotting extraterrestrials are zipping through Earths skies. But it does propose a bigger role for NASA in tackling the question.

NASA will do this transparently, Bill Nelson, the NASA administrator, said during a news conference on Thursday morning at the agencys headquarters in Washington, D.C., discussing the report.
When Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders summoned Arkansas lawmakers to Little Rock for a special legislative session this week to cut taxes and ban the state from mandating Covid-19 vaccinations, she added one more request: Overhaul the states longstanding Freedom of Information Act.

The law, as it stood, endangered her family, Ms. Sanders said, because it did not go far enough in shielding information about her security. She called for blocking the disclosure of such information, and also for other changes, urging lawmakers to limit the release of records related to policymaking and discussions of legal strategy.

They dont care about transparency, Ms. Sanders, a Republican who took office in January, said in a news conference last week, referring to people she saw as taking advantage of the law, which gives any resident of the state the right to have access to government records. They want to waste taxpayer dollars, slow down our bold conservative agenda and, frankly, put my familys lives at stake.

But the pushback was swift, swelling beyond organizations representing news organizations and government transparency advocates to include conservatives and some of the governors own supporters.
The final day of Californias legislative session is here.

That means weve reached the last, harried hours for lawmakers to pass any remaining bills for 2023, on tackling the states housing crisis, labor battles, fentanyl problem or anything else.

Each year, lawmakers tend to delay decisions on the highest-profile and most contentious bills until the very end of the legislative session, which makes the final few days particularly hectic. After today, legislators arent scheduled to reconvene until January. (Though California has two-year legislative sessions and the current one runs through next November, Capitol insiders refer to the annual deadline for floor votes as the end of session.)

A major compromise has already been reached this week between labor groups and fast-food companies, paving the way for workers to be paid a minimum wage of $20 an hour. An attempt to bail out home insurance companies has apparently failed for now. Lawmakers approved a bill limiting who could carry guns in public, setting up a fight that some believe could end up at the U.S. Supreme Court.

I reported on Wednesday from the State Capitol in Sacramento, where the Senate and Assembly held lengthy floor sessions to make their way through hundreds of bills. A piece of legislation needs approval from both chambers  and must have any amendments approved by the originating house  in order to reach Gov. Gavin Newsom, who can either sign or veto it. (The Legislature can override a governors veto, but rarely does so.)
While Mr. Cavalcante, as well as another inmate, were able to escape the Chester County jail in recent years, S.C.I. Phoenix, which has been deemed the states most modern and expensive correctional facility, is equipped with high-tech security features.

The facilitys perimeter is lined with two rows of razor-wire fence and is equipped with a system that officials say can detect anyone who is trying to scale or cut the fence. Officials of the prison have said that between the two concentric fences, a system is installed that detects weight, so an alarm would sound if an inmate were to make it into the space between the fences.

At the Chester County jail, officials have been reviewing the breakdown in security that led to Mr. Cavalcantes escape, and the officer who was in the watchtower has been fired.

S.C.I. Phoenix, built at a cost of $400 million, replaced S.C.I. Graterford, a prison that was built in 1929. The new prison, set on 164 acres of land about 30 miles west of Philadelphia, is currently housing just under 3,000 inmates  less than its full capacity. Mr. Cosby was held there for three years after he was convicted of sexual assault in 2018; he was released after his conviction was overturned in 2021.

While at S.C.I. Phoenix, Mr. Cosby occupied a 7-foot-by-13-foot cell with a 10-foot ceiling. Unlike many inmates, Mr. Cosby did not have a cell mate
Lee made landfall in Nova Scotia on Saturday afternoon as a post-tropical cyclone after transitioning from a hurricane and slightly weakening earlier in the day. The storm produced winds near hurricane-force as it reached shore, forecasters from the National Hurricane Center said, and it caused tropical storm conditions along the province and coastal Massachusetts.

All tropical storm warnings related to Lee were discontinued as of late Sunday morning.

The storm meant New England was expected to experience weather similar to what occurs during a noreaster, said Andrew Loconto, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Boston. During noreasters, which typically occur in late fall and through the winter months, large waves crash ashore and often flood some coastal roads.

The diminished storm produced strong tropical-storm-force winds that extended far from its epicenter and reached the coastline.
Their subtitles begin with action verbs like Discover or Explore or Embrace and tend to be long. One was 29 words: Discover the Vibrant Heart of the Big Apple: Your Ultimate Travel Companion to Unveil the History, Art Culture  All You Need to Know Before Planning a Trip to NYC. (For simplicity, Ill refer to each one only by its subtitle below.)

Some rapid reading suggested that even the authors were A.I. inventions.

Erica Chanay, listed as the author of Discover the Vibrant Heart of the Big Apple, had the same author photo as another author on Amazon  Alicia Carter, whose profile describes her as a nutritionist  and that photo also appears on websites or Facebook pages for an Emma Parker in New York and an Emma Williams in Australia.

We couldnt reach any of them. (I left a message with the Manhattan financial firm that listed Emma Parker as a senior funding manager; I have not heard from her. The Emma Williams I reached in Australia told me by email she had nothing to do with the photo, and news articles about hiking and biking trips she has taken were accompanied by photos that do not look like the person in the Discover photo  if the face in that photo is even that of a person. Software that can detect photos assembled by A.I. suggested that its not.)

And then there was Harry Tarbox, listed as the author of Where to Go, What to See and How to Do It All in New York City. The only person by that name I could reach through a national database lives in Bradley, S.D., and said he had never written a travel guide.

Nor has he ever been to New York City. Not even close, he told me.

In other guides to New York, even passages that sounded personal seemed suspect.
President Biden is planning to deliver a major speech in Arizona later this month on what his campaign says are ongoing threats to democracy, with the address scheduled the day after the next Republican presidential primary debate.

One location for the speech that has been under discussion is the McCain Institute, according to a person familiar with the planning. The institute, which is devoted to fighting for democracy, is named for Senator John McCain, a Republican who served for more than 20 years in the Senate with Mr. Biden and who sparred repeatedly with former President Donald J. Trump, the Republican Partys front-runner in 2024.

Mr. Biden has made the perils facing American democracy a central theme of his 2020 campaign and also his 2024 re-election bid. He also made the case ahead of the 2022 midterms that Mr. Trump and his allies posed a threat to the soul of the nation.

Anita Dunn, a top White House adviser, told Democratic donors about the upcoming speech on Wednesday in Chicago, the site of the partys 2024 convention, according to people familiar with her remarks. The speech is planned for September 28, the day after the debate, which will be held at the Reagan Library in California.
The appointment comes as attention in the United States and Europe increasingly turns toward Ukraines survival in economic as well as military terms. A report in March by the World Bank found that rebuilding the countrys badly damaged infrastructure and gutted urban areas could cost more than $400 billion over a decade. Group of 7 member nations have just begun sketching out how that undertaking might work, especially with Russian forces occupying large portions of Ukraine.

Mr. Blinken added in a statement that Ms. Pritzker would be central to the effort to ensure that Ukraine not only survives but thrives, standing on its own. He said the goal was to turn the country into a prosperous, secure, European democracy.

Ms. Pritzker hails from a prominent Chicago family known for its business empire and longtime influence within the Democratic Party. Her brother, J.B. Pritzker, is the Democratic governor of Illinois. Their father, Donald, was a co-founder of the Hyatt hotel company.

Ms. Pritzker started several business ventures of her own, and as President Barack Obamas commerce secretary from 2013-17, she was known for her close relationships with business leaders across the United States. She is also on the board of Microsoft and a former chairwoman of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

She played an important role in Mr. Obamas rise through Illinois and national politics, using her contacts to help raise hundreds of millions of dollars for his campaigns. In a January 2020 endorsement of Mr. Bidens presidential candidacy, she noted that she had known Mr. Biden for more than 20 years.
Were here in New Hampshire, outside a brewery with Gov. Chris Christie because, as he told us, this is his make-or-break state. His path to the Republican nomination runs through New Hampshire, the first-in-the nation primary. If Donald Trump wins here, he will be our nominee. And everything that happens after that is going to be on our party and on our country. Youre about second in the polls in New Hampshire, but President Trump is still 20 points ahead. How do you see your path now that this race has started to actually winning this? I see it right where were sitting. The path is to beat him here. I think once Donald Trump loses in one place, that entire rotted building will crumble. Is there any scenario that you could see where you would drop out? Look, Nick, if I dont do well in New Hampshire, then Ill leave. I mean, its like Ive been through this before. I know what these races mean. And if I do very well here, then you bet Ill continue on through the convention. More so than any other candidate in this race, Governor Christie has been harshly critical of former President Trump. Most of the field has been trying to keep Trump out of it. Christie has made it central to his argument for why he deserves the presidency. And we watched you stand up there and say that, you know, Donald Trump was unfit, and you were very right. We agree. And then all of a sudden, you back out of the race and we see you on the stage next to him. Yup. Sucking up to him  Yup. So I want to know why? And how do I know that youre not going to do that again this time? Well first off, why was because I didnt want Hillary Clinton to be president, and I was convinced he was going to be the nominee at that point. Its retail campaigning in New Hampshire. You dont come up here to give big policy speeches, normally. What you do is come up here to meet voters. Gotten a chance to meet a lot of voters, take a lot of photos, shake some hands. Its amazing that this is the way we elect a president in this country. But it is. But just remember, the future of this country is going to be determined here. So America is counting on you, and Im counting on you too.
Appearing alongside Mr. DeSantis was Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo, Floridas surgeon general, and other medical doctors who expressed skepticism about the shots.

What I have directed our department to do is to provide guidance that really recommends and advises against the use of these mRNA Covid-19 vaccines for anyone under 65, Dr. Ladapo said during the panel on Wednesday.

Covid-19 cases have steadily increased since July, and public health officials have warned of a comeback for the virus in the fall and winter months  though some experts say that this year is less alarming than previous years. Conspiracy theorists, right-wing influencers and politicians have seized on the moment to stoke fears that the government would again initiate widespread shutdowns or masking requirements to help prevent the spread of the disease. But federal and state officials have not suggested that those types of measures are under consideration.

In the release accompanying Mr. DeSantiss statement, the governors office said that Covid-19 vaccines had shown little to no benefit to prevent Covid-19 infection  a claim that is directly contradicted by a host of evidence from doctors, public health officials and infectious disease experts.

The C.D.C. specifies that while older adults and persons with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for hospitalization and death from the disease, healthy children and adults can still experience severe disease. The benefits of Covid-19 vaccination continue to outweigh any potential risks, the agency said.
Prioritizing U.S. national security interests over human rights, the Biden administration has approved $235 million in military aid for Egypt that it had withheld for the past two years because of the countrys repressive policies.

The decision means that the United States will withhold just a small fraction  $85 million  of the $1.3 billion in military aid earmarked annually for Egypt. It also reflects a decision by Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and other officials in the administration that Americas relationship with the most populous country in the region is too important to risk fracturing despite pleas from human rights activists for a much harder line from Washington.

Explaining the decision on Thursday, State Department officials said the United States continued to have serious concerns about human rights in Egypt, which has been ruled by a repressive military government for a decade.

The officials insisted that the approval of the $235 million does not reflect any less emphasis by the Biden administration on human rights. They noted that Mr. Blinken raised the cases of political prisoners and other abuses with Egyptian leaders during a visit to Cairo in January and will continue to press those issues.
No date has yet been set for his arraignment.

Abbe Lowell, Mr. Bidens lawyer, has argued that the indictment should be thrown out, saying that the lead prosecutor on the case, David C. Weiss, is still legally bound by the previous diversion agreement and accusing Mr. Weiss of caving to the pressure from Trump supporters who had called the plea agreement a sweetheart deal.

Hunter Biden possessing an unloaded gun for 11 days was not a threat to public safety, but a prosecutor, with all the power imaginable, bending to political pressure presents a grave threat to our system of justice, he said in a statement.

The White House declined to comment.

The decision to file criminal charges against President Bidens troubled younger son was an extraordinary step for the Justice Department and Mr. Weiss, whom Attorney General Merrick B. Garland named as a special counsel last month. Mr. Garland gave Mr. Weiss that status after the last-minute collapse of a previous deal that would have resolved the long-running investigation without Mr. Biden serving prison time.

The defunct deal also would have resolved an investigation into Mr. Bidens late filing of his tax returns for several years. Prosecutors did not file tax charges against Mr. Biden on Thursday but could still do so.

Mr. Weisss team has also signaled that it continues to investigate other elements of Mr. Bidens business activities, most likely including whether any of his work with foreign interests violated the Foreign Agents Registration Act, which requires disclosure of lobbying activities for other countries.
But it was as a member and later as chairman of the appropriations subcommittee on the District of Columbia that Mr. Faircloth made national headlines on a collision course with Mr. Barry, a former leader of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee who had been a popular elected official in Washington, in various capacities, since the establishment of limited home rule in the capital in 1973.

During Mr. Barrys early mayoral terms, crime rates and municipal finances were relatively stable. But by the early 1990s, federally imposed budget limitations, tax losses caused by the flight of middle-class homeowners, a recession, a crack cocaine epidemic and poor municipal management combined to create soaring municipal deficits.

Mr. Barry himself became addicted to alcohol and prescription drugs and in 1990 was arrested in a sting. He served six months in prison for possession of cocaine. In a political comeback, he won a discontinuous fourth four-year term as mayor. But taking office in early 1995, he immediately faced a deficit that had ballooned to $772 million. With its bonds rated junk, the city was unable to pay its bills.

The mayor admitted that the city government was unworkable and asked Congress to take over some city functions. Instead, with Mr. Faircloth as point man, a new Republican congressional majority put some city operations into receivership and created a financial control board to take over day-to-day spending and financial planning, with the power to overrule the mayor.

Over the next two years, Mr. Faircloth granted the city some concessions: more money than requested for public schools and repairs to decaying buildings. But Mr. Barry and the control board battled constantly over policy and budgetary issues.
The United States has tax treaties with many countries that eliminate double taxation, but it has been unable to form such a treaty with Taiwan because the two governments do not have official diplomatic ties. The United States established diplomatic ties with China in 1979 and broke off formal relations with Taiwan. Since then, every U.S. administration has tried to maintain an ambiguous position on Taiwan based on the One China policy.

Usually, U.S. administrations strike tax treaty agreements with other countries that are ratified by the Senate. To circumvent the normal tax treaty process, Congress has been working on legislation that would change the tax code directly as long as Taiwan enacts similar benefits for Americans who want to do business there.

The bill was drafted with input from House lawmakers and it could become law this year, if the full Senate and House approve it and President Biden signs it. The Biden administration has expressed support for ending double taxation with Taiwan.

Lawmakers view the legislation as a way to bolster American manufacturing and accelerate investment in the U.S. semiconductor industry. Congress approved more than $50 billion in support for the sector as part of the CHIPS Act legislation that was enacted last year and Taiwan, which is a global leader in the production of microchips, has been planning to build manufacturing facilities in the United States.

Senator Ron Wyden, Democrat of Oregon, who chairs the Senate Finance Committee, said on Thursday that the legislation would help make those plans possible.
The Justice Department asked the Supreme Court on Thursday to pause a novel and sweeping ruling from a federal appeals court barring many kinds of contacts between administration officials and social media platforms.

The case, a major test of the role of the First Amendment in the internet era, will require the court to consider when government efforts to limit the spread of misinformation amount to censorship of constitutionally protected speech.

A unanimous three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit ruled last week that officials from the White House, the surgeon generals office, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the F.B.I. had most likely crossed constitutional lines in their bid to persuade platforms to take down posts about the coronavirus pandemic, claims of election fraud and Hunter Bidens laptop.

The panel, in an unsigned opinion, said the officials had become excessively entangled with the platforms or used threats to spur them to act. The panel entered an injunction forbidding many officials to coerce or significantly encourage social media companies to remove content protected by the First Amendment.
Soon after starting his junior year last month at Barbers Hill High School in Mont Belvieu, Texas, Darryl George was separated from his classmates because of the way he wears his hair, his mother and a lawyer said.

Since the term began on Aug. 16, Darryl, a 17-year-old Black student, has received multiple disciplinary notices that have culminated in more than a week of in-school suspension, where he sits on a stool in a cubicle and work is brought to him, according to his mother, Darresha George. Each morning, he is asked by officials at the school, about 30 miles east of Houston, whether he has cut his hair yet, she said.

He has not.

He is actually getting singled out, said Ms. George. They are personally stopping him, Did he cut his hair? Asking him at the door.

Darryl has locs, or long ropelike strands of hair, that he pins on his head in a barrel roll, a protective style that reflects Black culture, Ms. George said. On Aug. 31, about two weeks after school started, school officials told her that his hair length, even though pinned, violated the dress code.
The Dominican Republic said it would seal its border with Haiti on Friday morning amid a conflict over access to a river shared between the two historically contentious neighbors. The move would further isolate Haiti, a nation that has descended into gang violence and growing hunger.

Tensions have grown in recent days over construction in the Massacre River, which straddles both nations.

President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic, who claimed that the excavation of a canal on the river in Haiti would harm Dominican farmers, froze Haitian visas this week and threatened to close the more than 220 miles of border if the two sides did not reach a resolution.

A Haitian delegation met with the Dominicans in Santo Domingo, the capital, on Wednesday for 11th-hour negotiations, but there was no apparent resolution, and on Thursday, Mr. Abinader announced his decision to shut the boundary between the two Caribbean island nations starting at 6 a.m. local time Friday.
When asked to explain his worldview, the renowned Peruvian political and environmental activist Hugo Blanco liked to tell a story about mushrooms.

These mushrooms, he explained, grow only during the rainy season around his hometown, Cusco, on the eastern side of the Andes, making them a valuable delicacy.

One day in the market, he approached a woman who was standing beside a small mountain of them.

I told her, Ill buy all of them without asking for a discount, which was a good deal for her, because usually you pay less for more quantity, Mr. Blanco said in a 2017 interview with the arts and politics magazine Guernica. But she told me, No. If I sell you all of them, what am I going to sell everyone else? Selling wasnt just business, but a social relationship.

This, he said, was the essence of his belief in ecosocialism, a movement that sees capitalism as the driving force behind the worlds growing environmental crisis. For over 30 years he led marches against mines, rallied international support for the Amazon and organized efforts to expand autonomy for Indigenous people.
The joint exercises come after the United States conducted a series of military drills across the region in recent weeks with allies like Japan, Australia and the Philippines. On Saturday, the American and Canadian navies sailed ships through the Taiwan Strait.

What We Know

Chinas Shandong aircraft carrier was one of at least 20 Chinese naval vessels spotted navigating waters around Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines starting on Tuesday, according to the Japanese and Taiwanese governments.

Other vessels identified by Japanese officials included missile destroyers, frigates and supply ships.

China also sent at least 68 warplanes near Taiwanese airspace on Thursday, up from 35 on Wednesday, Taiwans Ministry of National Defense said. Some of those aircraft joined the naval exercises. Planes were spotted taking off and landing on the Shandong, according to Japans Ministry of Defense.

China has not announced any exercises involving the Shandong, its first domestically built aircraft carrier, one of two carriers China has in service.

What the Analysts Say

The drills appeared to be focusing on some of the Peoples Liberation Armys deficiencies: the ability to keep up operations far from its shores and coordinate between different forces on the water and in the air.

It looks to me like they were practicing sustained air operations toward the West Pacific in conjunction with their carrier exercises, something we havent seen at this scale before, said Ben Lewis, an independent defense analyst based in Washington, who tracks Chinese military activity around Taiwan.

Mr. Lewis said Chinas military was likely practicing enforcing a blockade around Taiwan, the self-governed island that Beijing claims and has threatened to take by force. A blockade would complicate the United States ability to come to Taiwans aid if it were to be invaded by China.

China wants to use this exercise to showcase that it has the ability to fly over the first island chain, said Lin Ying-yu, an assistant professor at Tamkang University in Taipei, referring to the string of major archipelagos  Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines  nearest to Chinas coast.

By sending out big numbers of its jets and vessels, it wants to let the other players in the region know that it possesses the ability to launch joint attacks by sea and air forces, he added.

Background

China has deployed more planes and ships to challenge American dominance in the region. At the same time, it has grown more frustrated with the United States efforts to strengthen security alliances with Asian allies.

Last month, the United States signed a trilateral agreement with Japan and South Korea aimed at deterring Chinese aggression in places like Taiwan. Beijing has accused Washington of launching another Cold War by trying to contain Chinas rightful rise.

The Chinese army is unambiguous about safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country, Song Zhongping, a commentator in Beijing who is a former Chinese military officer, said about the signal China is sending with this weeks military drills.

Other analysts said Chinas growing aggressiveness over Taiwan was backfiring by making more countries take notice. Some like the Philippines have even offered to bolster security cooperation with the United States by offering more access to its military bases.

The strengthening in Chinas maritime combat power will further cause tensions near Taiwan, said Su Tzu-yun from Taiwans Institute for National Defense and Security Research in Taipei. But, at the same time, China also has to face more enemies in the region.

Chris Buckley , Olivia Wang and Hikari Hida contributed reporting.
Washington and Moscow flooded the Korean Peninsula with arms and aid as they fueled the war between South and North seven decades ago. Now, in a fateful moment of history turning back on itself, Russia and the United States are reaching out to those same allies to supply badly needed munitions as the powers face each other down again, this time on the other side of the globe, in Ukraine.

When President Vladimir V. Putin met North Koreas leader, Kim Jong-un, in Russias far east on Wednesday, they struck what North Korea called a satisfactory agreement on the immediate cooperation matters between the two states, which have found common interests in opposing the United States and its allies. If any specific arms deal was struck, neither Moscow nor Pyongyang was expected to announce it. Buying weapons from North Korea or providing help for its weapons programs are violations of United Nations Security Council resolutions that Russia itself voted for.

Matthew Miller, a spokesman for the State Department in Washington, characterized the meeting as Mr. Putin begging Kim Jong-un for help. But it is not just Russia turning to the Korean Peninsula for aid: Under deals worked out quietly with Washington, South Korea has been shipping large amounts of artillery shells to the United States for months. It insists that it is not supplying any lethal weapons directly to Ukraine. But its shipments to the U.S. military help free up American stocks for Ukraine to use in fighting Russia.

The Korean War never officially ended after the guns fell silent in a cease-fire in 1953. Still technically at war, both Koreas have since engaged in an arms race, building two of the worlds largest standing armies, with large stockpiles of weapons.
A luxury cruise ship that had been stuck for three days after running aground off the coast of Greenland was pulled free on Thursday morning, the authorities said.

The ship, the Ocean Explorer, had been carrying 206 passengers and crew members and was headed toward Alpefjord, in a remote corner of Greenland. The ships destination was the Northeast Greenland National Park, the worlds northernmost national park, which is home to icebergs, glaciers and high mountains.

The Joint Arctic Command, which is part of Denmarks defense forces, and SunStone Maritime Group, the coordinators of the rescue operation, said in statements on Thursday that the ship had been pulled free by a vessel named Tarajoq.

There were no reported injuries on board the ship, and there was no threat to the environment. The ships operator, Aurora Expeditions, a cruise company based in Australia, said in a statement on Thursday that all onboard are safe and that it appreciated the patience and understanding of our passengers during this process.
Eva Fahidi, a Holocaust survivor who late in life began speaking out and writing about her experiences, as well as expressing them in dance, becoming a familiar presence at memorial observances and in classrooms in Germany and other European countries, died on Monday in Budapest. She was 97.

The International Auschwitz Committee, an association of Auschwitz survivors, announced her death.

Ms. Fahidi, part of a Hungarian Jewish family that had converted to Catholicism, was rounded up in 1944 along with the rest of her family and taken to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration and extermination complex in occupied Poland. She was 18.

She was apparently saved from the gas chamber by being of an age and fitness level to qualify for a forced-labor camp. Her other family members were sent to their deaths. Josef Mengele, the Nazi death camp doctor, presided over the selection process.

My youth came to an abrupt end on the 1st of July, 1944, on the ramp of Birkenau, she wrote in The Soul of Things: Memoir of a Youth Interrupted (2005) after detailing a carefree youth. The life I have described above was gone in the split second it takes to wave a hand  Mengeles motion that ordered me into one line and the rest of my family into the other.
A day after the publication of an investigation by two cybersecurity watchdogs showing that a cellphone belonging to the chief executive of an exiled, independent Russian news website had been infected by Pegasus surveillance spyware, several other journalists and media workers for Russian news outlets were reported to have, like her, received earlier notifications from Apple that their iPhones may have been targeted by state-sponsored attackers.

Pegasus, which is made by the Israeli firm NSO Group, is a zero-click software that can, without needing any triggering action by a recipient, remotely extract messages, contacts, photos and videos from the targets mobile phone. Released in 2011 and sold under Israeli Defense Ministry license to law enforcement and intelligence agencies around the world  including the F.B.I.  it has been used to help capture drug lords, thwart terrorist plots and fight organized crime.

But New York Times investigations have revealed that the spyware has also been used by some governments, including Mexico, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, to spy on journalists and human rights activists. The United States blacklisted NSO Group in November 2021.

According to the two cybersecurity watchdogs whose report was published on Wednesday, the investigation was set off after an Apple notification of a possible state-sponsored attack was sent in June to the iPhone of Galina Timchenko, the co-founder, chief executive, and publisher of Meduza, a prominent Russian independent media outlet operating in exile in Europe.
Ukraine is stepping up its long-distance attacks into Russian-occupied Crimea and the Black Sea, launching several new strikes on Thursday, in a campaign to break down the Kremlins war effort by hitting targets far behind the front lines where soldiers are fighting and dying.

The Ukrainian military said it had hit a Russian surface-to-air missile defense system in Crimea and two Russian vessels at sea, a day after it struck two Russian warships docked in Crimea. The statements could not immediately be confirmed or refuted; the Russian Defense Ministry said only that attacks on a ship in the Black Sea had failed.

In recent weeks, Ukraine has sharply accelerated the pace of strikes in and around the Crimean Peninsula, a critical hub for the Russian military where it stockpiles troops, fuel, ammunition and other supplies and funnels them to the battlefields in southern Ukraine. The peninsula also contains the primary base, at Sevastopol, of the Russian Black Sea Fleet that is blockading Ukrainian ports.
Venice will not be included on UNESCOs list of World Heritage in Danger after a panel voted on Thursday to reject the recommendation of experts at the agency who had raised concerns that Italy had not done enough to protect the fragile city, which is threatened by climate change, mass tourism and development.

Still, representatives of countries upholding the World Heritage Convention, which seeks to protect and preserve cultural sites, said in a statement that further progress still needs to be made to properly conserve Venice. During a debate on Thursday afternoon at a World Heritage Committee session in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, several delegates said Italy should host a new advisory mission in Venice in the coming months to monitor the efficacy of the measures that Italy has taken so far and to make suggestions.

Venice is not at risk, Mayor Luigi Brugnaro wrote on social media Thursday evening, describing the result as a great victory. Posting on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, he added: The world has understood all the work we have done to save our city.

Italy was warned in July that Venice, a World Heritage Site since 1987, was being considered for UNESCOs in danger list, even though the state and city have made significant changes to try to protect Venice.
While the Libyan meteorological service did issue early warnings about heavy rain and floods, it did not address the risk posed by the aging dams, the World Meteorological Organization said in a later statement on Thursday. The Libyan weather services abilities were limited, the U.N. agency said, by major gaps in its observing systems, as well as its information technology.

The toll of 10,000 cited by Mr. Taalas has also been used by some officials in Libya. Estimates have varied, with some much lower, but whatever the final tally, the country is devastated.

The scale of the humanitarian crisis in Libya is unprecedented, Ahmed al-Mandhari, regional director in Eastern Mediterranean for the World Health Organization, said in a statement.

With many health facilities out of service and those that are still operational overwhelmed, Mr. al-Mandhari said, the W.H.O. was preparing an airlift with 28 tons of surgical and medical supplies to take off from Dubai in the next 48 hours.

The Libyan authorities on Wednesday announced a joint operation room to oversee the response  three days after the dams broke and sent death and destruction through the streets of Derna and other coastal towns. The plan was laid out by the interior minister of the government in eastern Libya, Essam Abu Zeriba.
Growing up with his mother and sister in a one-bedroom rental on the edge of Flatbush and Crown Heights, in Brooklyn, Gregory Shepherd knew that he wanted his own space, and more of it.

It was a run-of-the-mill impoverished neighborhood, and I hated living in tight quarters, said Mr. Shepherd, 36. I always knew I wanted to own a home. That was a goal of mine when I got a real job and made real money.

After finishing at Bowling Green State University in Ohio, he returned home to New York and began his career as a New York City firefighter. Mr. Shepherd is currently stationed in Crown Heights.

Where I was growing up, there were always fires, and I would see firefighters running into buildings saving people they didnt know, he said. As they were walking home, they would wave at me. That stuck with me. I work in those firehouses now, and I always wave at the kids.

He married and was divorced, and found himself living in a basement apartment in Jamaica, Queens, paying $1,000 a month. The one-bedroom was excessively hot, and his landlord would complain when he opened the window to cool off. But Mr. Shepherd had a plan.

[Did you recently buy a home? We want to hear from you. Email: thehunt@nytimes.com]

I was there just to save money, he said. I sacrificed a lot. I had a vision, and I knew that paying cheap rent would get me there.

His vision included a suburban house and yard, surrounded by nature. I grew up not having grass, he said. You see a family on TV and they always have a yard. In my mind, thats middle-class success.

But his biggest motivation, he said, was building financial stability for his 8-year-old son, Hudson: I want to leave property to him. I want him to have an easier life.

Through Realtor.com, he connected with Danielle Jernigan, a saleswoman with Keller Williams NYC. The initial idea was to move to Westchester, but he discovered that his budget of $500,000 would buy only a co-op or condominium there, not a house.

Besides, his son lived in Nassau County. So he turned to Long Island.

He could have afforded something in Nassau that needed work, Ms. Jernigan said. But for a place in good condition, his price range had him in Suffolk. He didnt want to sacrifice the size of the home for proximity to the city.

It was important to have a bedroom for Hudson and one for guests, as well as space for his side business, Kultivated Hair Care, specializing in natural hair butters and oils.

Among his options:
The current Labor government passed legislation establishing the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) in November last year.

The NACC opened its doors at the beginning of July 2023, and more than 550 referrals have already been received.

The NACC is headed up by former NSW Court of Appeal Judge Paul Brereton AM RFD SC, who is joined by three deputies: Dr Ben Gauntlett, former Disability Discrimination Commissioner at the Australian Human Rights Commission; Nicole Rose PSM, the former CEO of AUSTRAC; and Jaala Hinchliffe, the former Integrity Commissioner and agency head for the Australian Commission for Law Enforcement Integrity. Taking the chief executives position is Philip Reed, the former CEO of the NSW ICAC.

At the centre of the NACCs role is its mission to investigate serious or systemic instances of corrupt conduct by Commonwealth officials. In a statement, Commissioner Brereton expressed a desire for the Commission to attract a reputation of being fearless but fair, independent and impartial.

Anyone can make a voluntary referral, either anonymously or otherwise, to the NACC regarding corrupt conduct, and its the Commissioners role to decide whether to investigate. They can also decide to refer the issue to a Commonwealth agency to which it relates for further action or can choose to not take any action. Although referrals can be anonymous, any subsequent statements made to the NACC as part of its investigation are not.

The Commissioner may also elect to make hearings public, although this is not guaranteed.

What companies need to know

Its critical for any organisation engaged in business with a government entity to know that they, too, can be investigated by the NACC if theyre implicated in corrupt conduct.

For this reason, companies doing business with the government must prepare for the possibility of investigation by the NACC.

A key step an organisation can take is to conduct a thorough review of its anti-corruption and bribery policies and procedures. Companies must also have a process in place outlining how they will respond to an NACC investigation, or any requests for documents made.

Staff who act as government contractors or otherwise engage with the government also need training about their obligations, particularly regarding gifts and hospitality. Organisations also benefit from creating a culture of transparency designed to encourage staff who may have concerns about potentially corrupt conduct to report.

The upshot of the NACCs establishment is there will be increased accountability for organisations doing business with the government, as well as for the officers of those companies dealing with government entities.

Companies wanting to get ahead of the curve when it comes to the NACCs powers should also think about identifying areas of risk within the business as it relates to dealing with government officials. Policies and procedures should then be strengthened to take any risks identified into account.

Finally, given the NACC has the power to demand documents, including privileged documents, are produced as part of an investigation, organisations need to undertake a thorough review of how they handle those documents and any internal investigations, which may take place in anticipation of an NACC request.

Who  and what  is already under investigation

The broad scope to make referrals means the NACC already has a lot on its plate, with the following matters suggested for possible investigation:

PwCs recent tax leaks scandal involving its government consulting arm

Former PM Scott Morrisons secret ministries

Former cabinet minister Bridget McKenzies handling of the Community Sport Infrastructure Grant Program

referrals resulting from the Robotdebt Royal Commission after Commissioner Catherine Holmes requested a one-week extension for the inquirys reporting date to enable her to make a direct referral to the NACC.

Beyond voluntary referrals, the NACC Act places an obligation on agency heads and agency public interest disclosure officers to make mandatory referrals of corruption issues they become aware of.

This mandatory requirement commenced on 28 July 2023 for any relevant conduct they become aware of on or from 1 July 2023.

Holding Redlich regularly acts for clients who are subject to investigation by anti-corruption agencies, including IBAC, ICAC and CCC. We are well-placed to assist your organisation in responding to any investigation that the NACC may institute in time.

By Holding Redlich Partner Howard Rapke, Senior Associate Gemma Hannah and Undergraduate Alex Stiliadis

Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
3:30 p.m. Tour downtowns Black history

Take in history on foot with Lost Stories of Black Charleston , a two-hour walking tour that starts at Buxton Books on King Street and explores two downtown neighborhoods: the French Quarter and South of Broad. On a recent stroll, the author and historian Damon Fordham (who said he never gives the same tour twice) pointed out the Broad Street location of the countrys first known Black law firm, Whipper, Elliott, and Allen, which opened in 1868. In front of the South Carolina Historical Society, he spoke of Denmark Vesey, a free Black man who, in 1822, planned an unsuccessful slave revolt. When his plan was revealed, white Charlestonians burned down Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, where Mr. Vesey was a member. The church was rebuilt in 1872 (and again in 1891, following an earthquake) and was the site of the 2015 shooting that claimed the lives of nine Black churchgoers.
A Chinese woman recently filed a lawsuit requesting a divorce from her husband of less than a year, claiming that he blackmailed her into the marriage with some sensitive photos.

According to Li Song Songs lawsuit, she and her husband, Tan Dan, met in May of 2022, at a party. She didnt pay too much attention to him, but he apparently became obsessed with her, even going to the salon where she worked every day. Because he didnt give him the attention he craved, Tan allegedly started finding ways of chasing clients away from the salon, just so he could be alone with his love interest. However, Song was less than impressed with his tactics and refused to give in to his advances. In the lawsuit, the woman claims that she saw him as an unreliable and conniving person.

Photo: Mohammed_hassan/Pixabay

Apart from Tan Dans constant harassment, Li Song Song saw her beauty salon business seriously affected by his antics. The fact that Tan came to her place of work every day and cleverly chased away her clients caused her serious loss of revenue, according to court documents. But little did she know that things could get much worse

In the filed court documents, Li Song Song alleged that one day, while she was changing clothes in the dressing room of her salon, Tan Dan snuck in and took photos of her with no clothes on. Armed with these sensitive pics, the man confronted the young woman, threatening to send them to her friends and family and post them online if she didnt agree to marry him.

Unable to deal with the pressure of having her nude photos leaked, on September 21, 2022, Song agreed to marry her blackmailer, but they never lived together. Then, in April of 2023, she realized her mistake and filed a lawsuit asking for the annulment of the marriage. An investigation followed, and a Beijing Court recently issued a verdict.

The court concluded that Tan Dans actions  taking indecent photos, threatening to damage her reputation, and interfering with her salons operations  caused Li Song Song mental, emotional, and financial harm. Tan Dan himself didnt deny any of the charges during the trial. The marriage was annulled but it is unclear if Tan faces any other consequences for his actions.
French/West/Vaughan picks ulp US national, regional and local media relations outreach for the launch of the 2024 edition of Guinness World Records, released in stores and online on Sept. 14 in honor of National Literacy Month, which encourages everyone to pick up a book. FWVs scope of work includes coordinating media interviews with talent globally. This years record breakers from the US include the worlds tallest steer, oldest competitive ninja athlete, largest male afro, largest Care Bears memorabilia collection and more. GWR2024 also features such Hall of Fame inductees as Queen Elizabeth, The Harlem Globetrotters and Elton John. With a nationally renowned reputation for PR service, we are pleased to have FWV on board to support us in sharing this special book with a key global audience in the US,said Guinness World Records editor-in-chief Craig Glenday.

Kiterocket signs on as agency of record for DSV Inventory Management Solutions, which provides supply chain and vendor managed inventory (VMI) services for advanced manufacturing operations. DSV is the latest addition to the agencys technology practice portfolio, which specializes in the semiconductor and emerging technologies sector. The agency will work to reinforce DSVs global position and propel its solutions in all its vertical markets. DSV works with clients in such industries as technology, industrial, healthcare, and renewable energy on a global basis, with almost 200 employees worldwide and over $500 million in inventory under management.

5WPR is named public relations agency of record for team development and employee engagement software platform Rising Team, which joins the agencys HR tech and future of work client roster. 5W will work to expand Rising Teams brand awareness in the US and highlight the thought leadership of company CEO and founder Jennifer Dulski. Its efforts will focus on magnifying the benefits of Rising Team's platform, especially as it pertains to remote and hybrid work. We're excited to be working with 5WPR because of their knowledge of the space and proven track record of success, said Dulski.
FGS Global is providing strategic communications support for the Columbian Embassy to advance the South American countrys interest in the US.

The one-year $540K contract kicked off Sept. 1.

Colombia elected Gustavo Petro, its first leftist president, in 2022, who has pledged to shift the focus from fighting drugs to bankrolling more social programs.

The US has pumped more than $12B in security and anti-drug enforcement funds into Columbia since 2000 under the Plan Colombia progam, which served as the linchpin of the ties between the two nations.

The United Nations reported on Sept. 11 that production of Colombia's coca crop, which is the key ingredient in cocaine, has hit a more than 20-year high.

FGS work includes support for Colombias Office of the Presidency and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The firm will handle outreach to media, opinion leaders, think tanks, academic communities and others relevant to the U.S.-Colombia bilateral relationship.

Partners Brett OBrien and Joshua Gross are handling the Columbia work with managing director Adam Sharon.

OBrien was national security leader to House Minority Leader Dick Gephardt and foreign affairs counselor to Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell.

Gross had managed press and public engagement for the Embassy of Afghanistan.
Kevin McCarthy

Caught between a rock and a hard place. The gang at GZERO Media says House Speaker Kevin McCarthys desperate decision to launch an impeachment inquiry against Joe Biden may turn out to be an over-reachment. Hats off.

His shameful bid to appease MAGA wingnuts such as Matt Gaetz, Dan Bishop, Chip Roy and Lauren Boebert, who was last seen being booted from a Denver theater for causing a disturbance during a musical production of Beetlejuice, leads to a road to nowhere.

These clowns have zero interest in governing. They see politics as the art of performance.

Even Boeberts rival, the despicable Marjorie Taylor Greene, has had it. She wants no more of the burn-it-down caucus.

Launching an impeachment inquiry against a president without a shred of evidence will not go well in the 18 Congressional districts won by Biden but represented by Republicans. When those districts swing back to Democrats in 2024, McCarthy will have to turn over his gavel to Hakeem Jeffries.

McCarthy will rue the day that he sold his soul to the MAGA crowd in order to get his dream job.

Fox panders to viewers NYC pension funds are suing Fox Corp.s board of directors for breaching their fiduciary duties by allowing a business model that invites defamation litigation.

The complaint alleges that Fox broadcasts stories that appeal to their viewers regardless of the truth or factual basis, and that the board disregarded any risk.

It charges the directors failed to take any meaningful steps to protect the company from litigation.

Clear governance systems are absolutely necessary for the long-term health of a company, said NYC comptroller Brad Lander. As Foxs board continues to ignore these red flags, we are holding them accountable as long-term shareholders.

Foxs board includes former Speaker of the House Paul Ryan, ex-Ford Motor chief Jacques Nasser and one-time Telemundo Group CEO Roland Hernandez.

Goldman Sachs Cracks Down Goldman Sachs has fired several executives in its transaction banking business for violating communications policies.

The canned staffers use unauthorized communications channels to conduct business, according to the Financial Times.

The FT reported that the use of unapproved messaging apps, such as WhatsApp, risks violating government-mandated record-keeping practices.

Goldman says it takes its communications policies seriously and expects all of its personnel to comply with them.

It was among the banks to pay $200M in fees last year to the Securities and Exchange Commission and Commodity Futures Trading Commission for running afoul of record-keeping rules.
Offaly is going global thanks to the new worldwide advert for homegrown whiskey Tullamore Dew being shot in the town in recent months. The ad made its social media debut and will appear all over the world as the beloved whiskey goes from strength to strength on the global stage.

USE THE ARROWS ABOVE OR NEXT BUTTON BELOW TO SEE MORE PICTURES AND SEE THE VIDEO BELOW

RTE Kin star and proud Tullamore man Sam Keeley starred in the ad alongside one very handsome Irish wolfhound named Isobel in the clip. A number of photographs from behind the scenes have been released to the public, and if you look closely, our very own Tullamore Tribune features in one of the actor's hands.

The finished ad features Sam's character after his wolfhound goes missing but the whole town works to locate her, ending up in Digan's pub for a reunion.

You can watch the advert below:
In the modern digital landscape, where every online interaction leaves a lasting imprint, employers face a formidable challenge when their employees past actions or statements resurface on the internet.

This dilemma forces organizations to navigate uncertain terrain, and Thea Watson, Chief International Growth Officer at BrightHR, illuminates the intricacies of this predicament while offering practical strategies for employers.

Navigating the Digital Minefield: Employer Options

Balancing Reputation and Fairness: Employers grapple with the dual mandate of safeguarding their hard-earned reputation and ensuring fairness in their actions. It is well within their rights to protect their image from potential damage arising from their employees historical conduct, including social media posts, even if these incidents date back several years. However, achieving equilibrium between reputation preservation and equitable handling of such cases is essential to avert potential legal consequences, such as lawsuits for unfair dismissal. Case-by-Case Evaluation: The response to instances of resurfaced employee misconduct should be tailored to the specific circumstances. In cases where there is no direct correlation between the contentious online content and the workplace, the grounds for disciplinary action may be limited. However, when a discernible link exists between the employees actions and the company, initiating disciplinary measures becomes a prudent course of action. Clearly Defined Social Media Policies: Proactively establishing a comprehensive social media policy is a crucial step for employers. This policy should outline the expected standards of conduct for employees when using social media platforms, even during their personal time. Effective communication of this policy ensures that employees are well-informed about the companys expectations concerning their online behavior. Policy Violations and Due Diligence: Employers have the prerogative to conduct due diligence when an employees online activity breaches company policy. Investigation of the matter is justified, and disciplinary actions should be taken when warranted. Even in cases where no formal written policy exists, employees may still be held accountable for actions that could detrimentally impact the companys reputation. Assessing Impact on Reputation: The potential impact on the organizations reputation is a critical factor to consider when evaluating the gravity of an incident. This aspect becomes particularly relevant if the content implies company endorsement of inappropriate behavior or casts a negative light on the organization. Consistency Over Share Count: Setting a specific threshold of share counts that triggers disciplinary action is a challenging proposition for employers. Such an approach risks inconsistencies in the treatment of employees. Therefore, it is advisable to maintain consistency across all cases, irrespective of the virality of the online content. Informed Decision-Making: Employers should exercise due diligence by thoroughly examining all the facts pertaining to each case. This involves delving into the context and nuances of the situation before determining the most suitable course of action.

In an era where the past remains eternally accessible, employers face the arduous task of balancing their reputation with equitable employee treatment. Successfully treading this delicate path involves not only the establishment of a well-communicated social media policy but also a nuanced approach to addressing historical online content.

Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
OPINION: Global Silence Over Human Rights Violations In China

Feature

lekhaka-R C Ganjoo

Last year, on August 31, 2022, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) brought out the much delayed report on Xinjiang, in which it expressed concern over the worsening human rights conditions in China. On the one-year anniversary of the UN report, Amnesty International reminded the world about the need to hold China to account for crimes against humanity amid a "woefully inadequate" response by the international community.

The OHCHR report on the Human Rights Situation in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, mentioned grave human rights violation by the Chinese government against Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities.

Amnesty International's Deputy Regional Director for China, Sarah Brooks said, "The one-year anniversary of the OHCHR report must be a call to action for the international community. The need for states, through the Human Rights Council, to establish an independent international mechanism to investigate crimes under international law and other serious human rights violations in Xinjiang is as urgent as ever. Families of those who have been arbitrarily detained, forcibly disappeared or mistreated, want and deserve answers and accountability, not delays and compromises."

China Responds To India's Objection Over 'Standard Map' Including Arunachal

Since 2017, there has been extensive documentation, including by the UN Special Procedures of China's crackdown against Uyghurs, Kazakhs and other predominantly Muslim ethnic minorities in Xinjiang, carried out under the guise of fighting terrorism. In 2021, a comprehensive report by Amnesty International demonstrated that the systematic state-organized mass imprisonment, torture and persecution perpetrated by Chinese authorities amounted to crimes against humanity.

As the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states, all people possess human rights and fundamental freedoms that governments must protect. The government of the People's Republic of China (PRC), guided by a dictatorial ideology under the absolute rule of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), deprives citizens of their rights and systematically curtails freedom. People in China cannot practice the religion or belief of their choice.

The Chinese Communist Party has targeted campaign against Uyghur women, men, and children, and members of other Turkic Muslim minority groups in Xinjiang, China. Documented human rights abuses include coercive population control methods, forced labour, arbitrary detention in internment camps, torture, physical and sexual abuse, mass surveillance, family separation, and repression of cultural and religious expression.

In recent years, such human rights abuses have increased through government policies under the pretext and justification of fighting the "three evils" of "ethnic separatism, religious extremism, and violent terrorism." Human rights organisations, journalists, think tanks, and survivors of the Xinjiang camps themselves have provided ample information substantiating these abuses.

Chinese Communist Party has detained more than one million Uyghurs, ethnic Kazakhs, ethnic Kyrgyz, and members of other Muslim minority groups in internment camps. There have been complaints about destruction and closure of mosques and other religious sites, prevention of youths from participating in religious activities, forced political indoctrination or "re-education".

More than one million Uyghurs, ethnic Kazakhs and members of other Muslim minority groups have been detained since April 2017 in the camps, where many are reportedly beaten, tortured, forced to renounce Islam and made to memorize Chinese Communist Party propaganda. But even for those who have avoided the internment camps, Xinjiang has effectively become an open-air prison, using a combination of high- and low-tech surveillance and intimidation tactics.

Raised Importance Of Human Rights, Free Press With PM Modi At G20: Biden In Vietnam

Other abuses by Chinese authorities include coercive population control through forced abortion, forced sterilization, and involuntary implantation of birth control, forced labor in facilities nearby or affiliated with the internment camps. However, Chinese authorities have repeatedly dismissed accusations of human rights violations in the region.

India has remained silent o the UN OHCHR Report on 'Serious Maltreatment of Minorities' in China's Xinjiang. However, in Sept, 2022 MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "Our understanding is that the report is about the serious maltreatment of minorities in Xinjiang. But this is a UNHRC report, so for the moment, let the UN comment on it."

(R C Ganjoo is a senior journalist and columnist having more than 30 years experience of covering issues concerning national security, particularly Kashmir. He has worked with several prominent media groups and his articles have been published in many national and international publications.)

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are the personal opinions of the author. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of OneIndia and OneIndia does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
Chronology of boat accidents in Kerala in the past 10 decades

Why no action against them? Kerala HC pulls up govt on Tanur boat accident

Greece: Capsized Boat Had 100 Children In Hold As It Sank

10 Children Go Missing After Boat Capsizes In Bihars Muzaffarpur

India

oi-PTI

At least 10 children went missing after a boat capsized in Bagmati river in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district on Thursday, officials said.

The boat was carrying 30 children, and 20 of them have so far been rescued, they said.

The incident took place near Madhupur Patti ghat along the Bagmati river.

Vallam Kali 2023: Snake Boat Capsizes in Kerala During Boat Race, 25 Women Rescued

Talking to reporters, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said: "Rescue operation is underway... I have asked the district magistrate concerned to look into the matter with urgency. The state government will provide all assistance to the affected families." Kumar is in Muzaffarpur to review the progress of ongoing projects in the district.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, September 14, 2023, 13:48 [IST]
No Nipah Virus For 2nd Day, Kerala Govt Says 'Outbreak Under Control'

Nipah Situation Is Totally Under Control In Kerala, Says Minister Veena George

Nipah Virus: Schools, Colleges Reopen After A Week As No New Case Since Sep 16 In Kozhikode

Nipah Virus Found In Bats In Wayanad: Health Minister Urges People To Be Vigilant

Antiviral Against Nipah Has Arrived In Kerala: State govt

India

oi-PTI

The Kerala government on Thursday said the monoclonal antibody required for treatment of those infected by the Nipah virus has arrived in the state.

State Health Minister Veena George said a meeting was held between the Principal Secretary of the Health Department and the Union Health Ministry earlier in the day and now the monoclonal antibody has arrived.

She told reporters that stability of the medicine, which is not clinically proven yet but is the only available antiviral treatment for Nipah virus infection, was discussed with a central expert committee.

''Further steps or course of action would be decided by the expert committee,'' she said.

Nipah Outbreak: No Need To Be Apprehensive, Says Kerala Govt

Earlier in the day, in the state Assembly, the Minister said there was no need to be apprehensive about the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode district, but caution needs to be exercised by people as they go about their daily activities.

''There is no need for any apprehension. We can all together deal with the issue with caution,'' she said in a statement in the Assembly.

The brain-damaging virus has killed two people and infected three others in Kozhikode district.

On Wednesday, a 24-year old health worker became Kerala's fifth confirmed Nipah case since its recent outbreak.

Of the three infected persons under treatment, the condition of a nine-year-old boy continues to remain critical.

Following the outbreak, all educational institutions in Kozhikode district were closed on Thursday and Friday.

Kozhikode District Collector A Geetha announced this in a Facebook post and said educational institutions can arrange online classes on the two days for students.

However, there will be no change in university exams schedule, she added.

Will Lockdown Return In Kerala Over Nipah Outbreak?

A 24-hour control room was set up in the neighbouring district of Wayanad following the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode The Wayanad district administration also constituted 15 core committees to lead the prevention and surveillance activities and effectively deal with emergency situations.

The virus strain seen in the state was the Bangladesh variant that spreads from human to human and has a high mortality rate, though it is less infectious, the government has said.

The government has also said the WHO and ICMR studies had found out that the entire state of Kerala is prone to getting such infections, not just Kozhikode.

People living in forest areas have to take the highest precautions, it has said, and added that the latest case of the Nipah virus originated within five kilometres of a jungle area.

Around 11 wards were declared as containment zones in Kozhikode district till Wednesday evening.
Avoid Falling For BJPs Diversionary Tactics Of Raking Up 'Sanatan Dharma' Issue: MK Stalin Tells DMK Leaders

India

oi-PTI

The BJP-led Centre should be targeted on "corruption" and Sanatana Dharma debate must be avoided, DMK President and Chief Minister M K Stalin advised his party workers on Wednesday.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi telling his Cabinet colleagues days ago to defend Sanatana Dharma is a clear pointer that he is trying to derive political mileage out of the row", Tamil Nadu's ruling party chief said in a statement.

"One of the Union Ministers is trying everyday to divert people's attention by deliberately attempting to make Sanatana a talking point. Our people should not fall prey to the trick of the BJP to hide its failures," he added.

Dravidar Kazhagam chief K Veeramani has pointed out that the BJP wants to prevent debate on corruption and hence it is diverting attention by focusing on Sanatana Dharma, the Chief Minister said. Veeramani has underscored that "we should talk more on BJP's corruption." Hence, Stalin urged his party cadres, office-bearers and leaders of alliance parties including the Congress and Left parties to keep the focus on graft.

Women Entering Temples As Priests Under Tamil Nadu's Dravidian Model, Says Stalin

"Let us work with dedication to win our cherished goal of protecting the country and democracy by defeating the graft tainted, communal and despotic BJP regime and I appeal to everyone to not give room to attention diversion."

People knew pretty well that those belonging to the BJP are adept in making people forget real issues and divert attention.

The Chief Minister listed alleged irregularities in Central schemes, including the Bharat Mala and Dwaraka expressway projects to the tune of Rs 7.50 lakh crore and claimed the CAG report has exposed it.

Referring to the Manipur violence, Stalin said the BJP regime is spineless to "douse fire" and it is trying to change the course of national discourse. The recent victory of INDIA alliance partners in the bypolls is a precursor, symbolising a nation-wide win for the combine in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
Your no-panic guide: Modi says India has enough food and ration supplies

Bank Fraud Case: Jet Airways Founder Naresh Goyal Sent To 14-day Judicial Custody

India

oi-PTI

A court in Mumbai on Thursday remanded Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal to 14-day judicial custody in a money laundering case linked to an alleged fraud of Rs 538 crore at the Canara Bank.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Goyal on September 1 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) following a long session of questioning at the central agency's office here.

The 74-year-old businessman was produced before the court at the end of his ED remand on Thursday.

Goyal was sent to judicial custody by the court as no further remand was sought by the probe agency.

ED Arrests Founder Of Jet Airway Over Canara Bank Fraud Case

The money laundering case stems from an FIR of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) against Jet Airways, Goyal, his wife Anita and some former company executives of the now grounded private airline in connection with an alleged Rs 538-crore fraud case at the Canara Bank.

The FIR was registered on the bank's complaint which alleged that it sanctioned credit limits and loans to Jet Airways (India) Ltd to the tune of Rs 848.86 crore of which Rs 538.62 crore was outstanding.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, September 14, 2023, 12:44 [IST]
Congress Announces Boycott of Odisha Assembly Speaker Election Due to Clash with Nuakhai Festival

In a recent announcement, the Congress party stated that it would not participate in the upcoming election for the speaker of the Odisha assembly. The date coincides with Nuakhai, an important festival celebrated in western Odisha. The party accuses Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik of neglecting the sentiments and traditions of people from this region.

India

-Krishna Kripa

The Congress party in Odisha has announced its intention to boycott the upcoming election for the Odisha Assembly Speaker, slated for September 21. The decision is based on the fact that the date of the election coincides with Nuakhai, a significant festival celebrated in western Odisha. This announcement was made by Narasingha Mishra, leader of the Congress Legislature Party.

Nuakhai Festival Clash

Mishra explained that Nuakhai is observed over two days across western Odisha and holds deep cultural significance for its residents. He accused Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik of neglecting this important aspect while scheduling the assembly session on September 21. Despite protests from his party members, he stated that their concerns were disregarded by the government.

Accusations Against State Government

The Congress Legislature Party leader did not mince words when criticising Patnaiks administration. He alleged step-motherly treatment towards western Odisha by scheduling such an important political event on a day revered by its people as a major festival. "Unfortunately, the chief minister has called for the assembly session on September 21...The Congress MLAs will not be able to attend the Speaker election on that day," Mishra said.

A Call to Action

Asserting that Nuakhai is deeply rooted in local sentiment and traditions, Mishra implored residents of western Odisha to take a stand against what he referred to as discriminatory behaviour from their state government. His allegations have placed further strain on already tense relations between different factions within state politics.

Government Response

In response, Rajendra Dholakia, who serves as planning and convergence minister in Patnaik's cabinet and hails from western Odishasaid declined to comment on the matter. He stated that it falls under the purview of a different department.

In conclusion, this development has added another layer of complexity to Odishas political landscape. The Congress party's decision to boycott an important election due to its clash with a local festival is indicative of deep-seated regional sentiments and cultural priorities. It also highlights the ongoing tensions between different political factions within the state, particularly in relation to perceived neglect towards western Odisha by those in power. Whether this move will result in any significant changes or simply stoke further controversy remains to be seen.
Congress MLA Named as Accused in Nuh Violence: Haryana Government Reveals

The Haryana government informed the High Court that Congress MLA, Mamman Khan is a named accused in an FIR lodged after the August 31st Nuh violence. The police allegedly have evidence including phone call records to support this claim. Reports suggest that Khan may be under custody currently, though it's not confirmed.

India

-Krishna Kripa

In a significant development, the Haryana government has informed the High Court that Congress MLA Mamman Khan has been named an accused in a First Information Report (FIR) lodged following the violent incidents that took place in Nuh on August 31. The government's assertion is based on substantial evidence including phone call records available with the police.

MLA Named as Accused

The revelation came to light during a court hearing on Thursday, September 14. Hours after this announcement, there were unconfirmed reports of Khan being taken into custody. However, Satish Kumar, Deputy Superintendent of Police at Ferozepur Jhirka did not confirm these reports when contacted for further details.

Why Is Haryanas Nuh Tense Again? Top Points

Evidence Properly Evaluated

Haryanas Additional Advocate General Deepak Sabharwal informed the Punjab and Haryana High Court that Khan was officially named an accused in the case on September 4. This decision was made after all evidence against him had been "properly evaluated". Sabharwal later told reporters outside the court premises that there was ample evidence against Khan which substantiated their move.

Protection from Arrest Sought

Mamman Khan who represents Ferozepur Jhirka constituency moved to court earlier this week seeking protection from arrest. He claimed he was being unfairly implicated in a case related to an incident when he wasnt even present in Nuh on the day violence broke out.

Khan Unaware of Being Named In FIR

The MLAs counsel briefed reporters after the hearing saying that it was only now that Khan had come to know about his name being included in the FIR lodged post-Nuh violence. According to his counsel, while no immediate relief or protection from arrest was granted by court, it advised Khan could seek appropriate remedy for protection of his liberty in accordance with law.

Haryana: Another Nuh Violence Accused Held After Gunfight With Police

In conclusion, the naming of Congress MLA Mamman Khan as an accused in the Nuh violence case marks a significant turn of events. The Haryana government's assertion that they possess substantial evidence against Khan adds a new dimension to this ongoing investigation. While it remains to be seen how this development impacts Khans political career and the overall dynamics within the state's political landscape, it is clear that this issue has added another layer of complexity to an already tense situation.
'Cow vigilante' Monu Manesar To Be Produced In Rajasthan Court Today

India

oi-PTI

Police in Rajasthan will produce suspected cow vigilante Monu Manesar in a court again on Thursday in connection with the killing of two Muslim men from the state whose charred bodies were found in Haryana's Bhiwani district in February, officials said.

A police official, on the condition of anonymity, said during his two-day interrogation, Monu Manesar revealed that he was in touch with arrested accused Rinku and the duo had spoken on the phone before and after the abduction of Nasir and Junaid, the victims.

The official said Monu Manesar was involved in the crime, but whether he was the mastermind or not is still being probed.

''The two-day police remand of Monu Manesar ends on Thursday. He will be produced in the court during the day. If there is a need for further interrogation, his remand will be sought from the court,'' Deeg Superintendent of Police (SP) Brijesh Jyoti Upadhyay told PTI.

Cow Vigilante Monu Manesar's Arrest Sparks Controversy as VHP Accuses Rajasthan Government of Political Motivation

Monu Manesar -- booked by the Rajasthan Police for the killing of Nasir (25) and Junaid (35) and accused by some of inciting the recent violence in Haryana's Nuh -- was nabbed on Tuesday.

While the Haryana Police did not confirm that the Bajrang Dal leader was detained, an office-bearer of the outfit's parent organisation -- the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) -- said he was picked up from Gurugram's Manesar.

He was handed over to the Rajasthan Police after it obtained a transit remand from a court in Nuh.

Monu Manesar -- whose official name is Mohit Yadav -- was then brought to Bharatpur and produced in a court, which sent him to police custody for two days.

In February, Monu Manesar was named in an FIR lodged by the Rajasthan Police after Nasir and Junaid were found dead in a burnt car in Loharu in Haryana's Bhiwani.

The men from Ghatmika village in Rajasthan's Deeg (formerly Bharatpur) district were allegedly abducted by suspected cow vigilantes, who then crossed the border into Haryana.

Haryana Police Gives Monu Manesar's Custody To Rajasthan Police

The Rajasthan Police said last month that Monu Manesar's role in hatching a conspiracy and abetting the crime was ''under active investigation''.

Monu Manesar was also accused by some of being a trigger for the July violence in which a VHP procession was targeted by mobs in Nuh -- leading to the deaths of six people in that district and neighbouring Gurugram.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, September 14, 2023, 12:57 [IST]
Delhi's Fight Against Corruption: LG Saxena to Launch Faceless Complaint System

An anti-corruption portal, aimed at maintaining complainants' secrecy and ensuring zero tolerance towards corruption, is set to be launched by Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena. This initiative is a part of the Delhi government's efforts to combat corruption.

India

-Krishna Kripa

In a significant move to combat corruption, Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena is set to launch an anti-corruption portal for the Delhi government. The portal, scheduled for unveiling next week, will act as a platform for registration of complaints and requests for traps to catch corrupt individuals. This information was released in an official statement on Thursday.

Vigilance Complaint Information Management System (VCIMS)

The new system christened as Vigilance Complaint Information Management System (VCIMS) promises to bring about transparency in dealing with corruption cases. It is expected that the LG will officially launch this VCIMS portal on September 21. The unique feature of this system is its faceless operation ensuring absolute secrecy of the complainants.

Transition from Physical Forms

Post-launch, the departments and directorate will cease accepting complaints received in physical form according to the same statement. This suggests a complete shift towards digitization aimed at enhancing efficiency and maintaining confidentiality.

A Controversial Move?

However, not everyone seems pleased with these developments. Sources within the Delhi government have alleged that the LG office has bypassed elected officials while making decisions about this matter - something they find extremely unfortunate.

Safeguarding Complainants

The new portal also comes equipped with features allowing lodging of complaints against senior government officials whilst ensuring anonymity. Adequate safeguards are said to be put into place when dealing with such sensitive complaints.

Prior Permissions & Safeguards

The decision to launch this anti-corruption initiative was taken after obtaining requisite permissions from all relevant authorities including but not limited to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology; thereby ensuring all necessary safeguards were met before proceeding.

An Outcome Of Zero Tolerance Policy Towards Corruption

The decision to launch the portal is a direct outcome of the LG's intervention in a meeting on corruption complaints disposal, held in May this year. The primary aim was to ensure zero tolerance towards corruption and promote transparency.

In conclusion, this move symbolizes an important step forward in Indias ongoing battle against corruption. By leveraging technology and digital platforms like VCIMS, the Delhi government seeks to streamline complaint registration process, maintain complainants' confidentiality and expedite action against corrupt officials. While there are some criticisms regarding bypassing elected officials during the decision-making process, it remains to be seen how effective this new system will be in curbing corruption practices within government departments.
Hanoi Party chief has ordered fire safety inspections into all mini apartment buildings across the city after a fire on Tuesday claimed 56 lives.

The city has requested district authorities to review all apartments for rent, especially mini-apartment buildings, to see if they have followed all protocols on fire prevention and fighting, Secretary of Hanoi's Party Committee, Dinh Tien Dung, said Wednesday.

The move has been made following a deadly fire at a mini-apartment building in an alley of Khuong Ha Street in Thanh Xuan District. It was officially confirmed on Wednesday night that 56 people have been killed and 37 others are injured. Of the victims, 10 were children.

The mini apartment that caught fire killing 56 people in Hanoi's Thanh Xuan District on September 13, 2023. Photo by VnExpress/Gia Chinh

Speaking to the press, Dung said the city considers the fire a "particularly serious accident."

He said the building on fire has 45 apartments and its owner, Nghiem Quang Minh, 44, only has an ownership certificate for the entire building. All the 45 apartments have no such certificate.

The building has passed a fire safety inspection.

Mini-apartment buildings, which are popular in big and crowded cities such as Hanoi and HCMC, are those with more than two stories. They comprise many small apartments that share the same stairs and elevators.

Bui Xuan Thai, an expert at the Vietnam Fire and Rescue Association, said in most cases, owners of those buildings only obtain the construction license for just one building and make sure that the building passes a fire safety inspection before they modify it to create many apartments for rent.

Vu Ngoc Anh, head of the Science, Technology and Environment Department under the Ministry of Construction, said Thursday that currently local authorities licensed the construction of mini-apartment buildings and were also in charge of inspecting their technical design.

He also confirmed that many people had deliberately modified multi-story buildings to create smaller apartments for sale or for rent, adding that the ministry would investigate those cases to manage violations.

In 2018, Hanoi's Construction Department requested district authorities to build a file of all mini-apartment buildings in their localities, but until now, the specific number of those buildings in the city is unknown.
Nipah Virus: Schools, Colleges Reopen After A Week As No New Case Since Sep 16 In Kozhikode

Experimental Antiviral Against Nipah, BSL-3 Lab For Testing Reach Kerala From ICMR: Govt

India

oi-Prakash KL

By Pti

In the wake of the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode district of Kerala, due to which two people lost their lives and three others have tested positive for the virus, the only available experimental treatment -- monoclonal antibody -- was delivered to the state by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Thursday.

After the monoclonal antibody arrived in Kerala, State Health Minister Veena George said that the stability of the antiviral was discussed with a central expert committee. "Further steps or course of action would be decided by the expert committee," she said. George also told reporters that, earlier in the day, there was a meeting between the Principal Secretary of the Health Department and the Union Health Ministry.

The m102.4 monoclonal antibody, an experimental therapeutic, was imported for the treatment of infected patients on compassionate grounds during the 2018 Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode. It was not used back then as, by the time it arrived, the outbreak had ended.

The Standard Operating Procedures and protocols for its use were prepared back then with the support of the ICMR.

In addition to delivering the monoclonal antibody, ICMR's National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune also sent its mobile BSL-3 laboratory - the first biosafety level-3 containment mobile lab of South Asia - to Kozhikode to test samples for Nipah virus in the district itself.

So far, the samples were being sent to NIV in Pune.

Besides that, a fully-equipped mobile virology testing laboratory rolled out today by the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) was also dispatched to the north Kerala district to strengthen the testing and detection of the virus in samples.

The mobile virology lab, in which biosafety level (BSL) 2 and level 3 testing can be carried out, was flagged from Thiruvananthapuram by George who lauded the RGCB for stepping in to significantly help the Nipah containment efforts by rolling out such a critical facility.

The minister said that more samples can be tested once the RGCB lab reaches Kozhikode.

RGCB Director Prof Chandrabhas Narayana said the services of a group of six experts have been made available in the mobile unit, which can give results within six hours after testing the samples.

He said, like a BSL 3 facility, the mobile lab has a double airlock system and features onboard decontamination and biological waste processing capabilities. It can perform testing for bacteria, fungi, and other pathogenic organisms, as well as assess food quality.

Meanwhile, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar reviewed the steps taken for the containment of the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode and also visited NIV, Pune to take stock of the preparations.

A central team, comprising experts from various fields, has also reached Kozhikode district to assess the situation and suggest remedial measures, the government said. The activities of the team, which will forward information daily to the state government, will be coordinated by the Senior Regional Director of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, it said.

The team will work closely with officials from the Animal Husbandry Department on epidemiological assessments and control measures, it added.

Meanwhile, the district administration declared Saturday (September 16) also as a holiday for educational institutions in Kozhikode in addition to today and tomorrow. However, there will be no change in university exams schedule, she added.

Kozhikode District Collector, A Geetha, in a Facebook post, said that the three days of holidays should not be turned into an occasion for celebrations, and advised avoiding all unnecessary travel and social gatherings.

In the afternoon, Minister George said in the State Assembly that there was no need to be apprehensive about the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode district, but that caution must be exercised by people as they go about their daily activities.

"There is no need for any apprehension. We can all together deal with the issue with caution," she said.

George said that the healthcare system across the state has been vigilant since the outbreak and said that other than Kozhikode, the neighbouring districts of Kannur, Wayanad and Malappuram should also exercise caution.

The minister also said that a 19-member core committee, call centres, and a control centre have also been set up in Kozhikode district, along with isolation, ventilator and ICU facilities in the medical college there.

Additionally, psychosocial support teams have been constituted to counsel those infected or their family members, and the treatment protocol has been further improved, the minister said.

She also advised people to wear masks, maintain social distance and approach healthcare workers in case anyone shows symptoms of cold, fever, headache or cough.

The minister also said that in areas where bats are present, liquor collected in open vessels from coconut and palm trees should not be consumed.

The brain-damaging virus has killed two people and infected three others in Kozhikode district.

It is the fourth time the virus infection has been confirmed in the state. In 2018 and 2021 it was confirmed in Kozhikode and in 2019 in Ernakulam.

On Wednesday, a 24-year old health worker became Kerala's fifth confirmed Nipah case since its recent outbreak.

Of the three infected persons under treatment, the condition of a nine-year-old boy continues to remain critical.

A 24-hour control room has also been set up in the neighbouring district of Wayanad.

The Wayanad district administration also constituted a 15-member core committee to lead prevention and surveillance activities, and to effectively deal with emergency situations.

The virus strain seen in the state was the Bangladesh variant that spreads from human to human and has a high mortality rate, though it is less infectious, the government has said.

The government has also said the WHO and ICMR studies had found out that the entire state of Kerala is prone to getting such infections, not just Kozhikode.

People living in forest areas have to take the highest precautions, it has said, adding that the latest case of the Nipah virus originated within five kilometres of a jungle area.

Around 11 wards were declared as containment zones in Kozhikode district till Wednesday evening.
What Makes Maharashtra CM, Eknath Shinde Say That Uddhav Thackeray 'Can Form Alliance Even With Hamas'

Explained: Why Is The Call For Maratha Reservation Back In The Spotlight?

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

A fortnight ago, a protest demanding reservation for Marathas in Maharashtra's Jalna district turned violent and left several people injured including the policemen.

The founder of Shivba and Maratha leader, Manoj Jarange was the one who re-ignited the demand for a separate Maratha quota in jobs and higher education.

However, the 17-day impasse regarding Maratha reservation reached its conclusion on Thursday morning when the Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange Patil ended his indefinite hunger strike. This decision came after a meeting with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and other senior state cabinet members at Antarwali-Saatii village in Jalna district.

So, What is the issue around Maratha Reservation?

In 2014, the Congress-NCP government led by Prithviraj Chavan announced a 16 percent quota for Marathas, based on the recommendations of the Narayan Rane committee, following extensive protests by the community.

Manoj Jarange Patil Ends 15-Day Hunger Strike, Extends Maratha Reservation Deadline

In 2018, the Maharashtra Assembly approved legislation granting a 16% reservation to the Maratha community. However, the Supreme Court later deemed this Maratha quota law to be unconstitutional. The court ruled that separate reservations for the Maratha community violated Article 14 (right to equality) and Article 21 (due process of law).

In 1997, the Maratha Sangh and Maratha Seva Sangh organized the first significant Maratha protest, advocating for reservations in government positions and educational institutions. The protesters contended that Marathas were not an upper caste but, in essence, Kunbis, a part of the agrarian community.

After a protracted struggle, the Maharashtra legislature passed a bill proposing a 16% reservation in education and government jobs for the Maratha community. This bill officially recognized Marathas as a socially and educationally disadvantaged group.

On June 27, 2019, the High Court upheld the constitutional validity of reservations for Marathas but recommended that the government reduce the quota from 16% to 12% to 13%, in line with the State Backward Classes Commission's recommendations.

However, on May 5, 2021, the Supreme Court declared the Maratha reservation unconstitutional and nullified the law.

Maharashtra CM Announces Suspension Of Police Officials, Withdrawal Of Cases Against Maratha Reservation Protesters

So, what has led to the dissatisfaction among the Marathas?

The Maratha community, constituting nearly 35 percent of Maharashtra's population, predominantly comprises an agrarian demographic. While a handful of families and dynasties have historically wielded power and accumulated wealth, the majority of the community has languished in underprivileged circumstances. The Marathas are now demanding reservation status equivalent to that of Other Backward Classes (OBC).

Their demand for reservation in jobs and education dates back to 1981 when Annasaheb Patil, a prominent leader of Mathadi laborers, initiated the first agitation calling for such privileges.

Over the years, successive governments, most of them headed by Maratha chief ministers, have procrastinated on this issue.

Eknath Shinde, Devendra Fadnavis, and Ajit Pawar have attributed the state's failure to argue the case in the Supreme Court to former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. Nevertheless, pointing fingers at Uddhav does little to resolve the current crisis.

The current tense situation escalated when Maratha leader Jarange Patil began an indefinite hunger strike to demand OBC status for the Marathas. It was during this fast that the police lathi-charged Maratha protesters earlier this month, injuring over 50 activists. This police action decisively backfired, leading to the suspension of the SP of Jalna district and the transfer of two Deputy Superintendents of Police. Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis, who also serves as the Home Minister, personally apologized to the protesters and took responsibility for the lathi-charge.

Maratha Reservation: Protest in Maha's Jalna, Several People Including Police Injured

In response, CM Shinde announced that Marathas in the Marathwada region of central Maharashtra would receive OBC status as Kunbis (a Maratha sub-caste classified as OBCs) if they could provide evidence that their families were classified as Kunbis during the pre-independence Nizam-era rule.

The government believed this would ease tensions, but Jarange Patil remained resolute. He insisted that all Marathas should be granted Kunbi status, regardless of their ability to provide Nizam-era proof. Furthermore, he has continued his hunger strike and has now refrained from drinking water.

Consequently, for the first time since taking office as CM, Shinde convened an all-party meeting to discuss the issue and explore solutions, taking careful note of the opposition's perspective on this matter.

How have OBCs responded?

OBCs in Maharashtra are evidently displeased with the Marathas' demand for OBC status. They do not object to Marathas receiving reservations but are steadfast in their stance that this reservation should not encroach upon the OBC quota. Even some Kunbi organizations oppose granting Kunbi status to the Marathas. Baban Tayade, a prominent member of OBC Mahasangh, an umbrella organization representing OBC groups, has stated that if the Marathas seek reservation, the government should allocate it from the open category without affecting existing quotas.

Senior politician and NCP founder Sharad Pawar has suggested that the current issue can only be resolved by raising the overall quota limit beyond 50 percent. He has called for this matter to be addressed in a special session of parliament scheduled to commence on September 18.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, September 14, 2023, 16:41 [IST]
J&K: 3 Security Officers Martyred In Anantnag Encounter, 2 LeT Terrorists Trapped

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

The Jammu and Kashmir Police, on Thursday reported that they have encircled two Lashkar-e-Toiba (Let) terrorists, including Uzair Khan, responsible for the killing of three security officers in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district.

In a tragic incident, a fierce gunfight with terrorists in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district in Kashmir led to the loss of an army colonel, a major, and a senior police official. Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak, and Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police Humayun Bhat were among the casualties.

Uzair Ahmad Khan (28) has been an active member of Let since July 2022.

Army Dog Kent Participated In 9 Operations Before Laying Down Life In Rajouri Encounter

The Kashmir Zone Police paid tribute to the bravery of the fallen officers, stating, "In solemn tribute to the unwavering valor of Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak & DSP Humayun Bhat, who laid down their lives leading from the front during this ongoing operation. Our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LET terrorists, including Uzair Khan."

Recommended Video

Anantnag Encounter: J&K cop Humayun Bhat laid to rest, father pays last respects | Oneindia News

In solemn tribute to the unwavering valor of Col Manpreet Singh,Major Ashish Dhonak & DSP Humayun Bhat who laid down their lives leading from the front during this ongoing operation. Our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LET terrorists including Uzair Khan  Kashmir Zone Police (@KashmirPolice) September 14, 2023

Reportedly, the bodies of the colonel and major were recovered from the encounter site. The terrorists had taken refuge in a nomad hut, and upon receiving a tip from sources, they targeted the officers and their escort. During the operation, an AK-47 rifle, utensils, clothing, and ammunition were seized from the hut, which served as the terrorists' hideout in the Gadole jungles.

The operation was meticulously planned by the Commanding Officer (CO), company commander, and Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), catching the terrorists off guard as they approached the hideout from an unexpected and challenging route. The terrorists were cornered and engaged in indiscriminate firing, resulting in severe injuries to the three courageous officers. The treacherous terrain made the situation even more challenging, but the terrorists are currently trapped, and an ongoing operation is in progress to neutralize them.

Who Was Mohammed Gufran? Wanted Criminal Killed In UP Encounter

The encounter happened on Wednesday morning as part of a mission to locate and apprehend terrorists believed to be hiding in the Gadole area. The operation initially commenced on Tuesday evening but was temporarily halted during the night for safety reasons. On Wednesday morning, authorities resumed their pursuit of the terrorists based on credible information regarding their concealed location. These details were shared by official sources with PTI, shedding light on the prevailing security challenges in the region.

As the joint forces' team closed in on the suspected location, the hidden terrorists initiated gunfire, sparking a confrontation.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, September 14, 2023, 12:36 [IST]
Death Toll Rises to 175 Amidst Ethnic Strife in Manipur; Over a Thousand Injured

Since early May, ethnic violence has escalated in Manipur, India leading to the death of 175 individuals. Additionally, over a thousand have been injured while 32 remain missing. Almost five thousand homes were set ablaze and numerous religious structures were vandalised during this period of unrest.

India

-Krishna Kripa

Manipur, a northeastern state of India, has been in the throes of severe ethnic strife since early May. The conflict has resulted in the death of 175 people and injury to 1,108 others. Additionally, 32 individuals remain missing amidst the chaos. This grim data was shared by police officers during a press conference held on September 14.

The violence that has engulfed Manipur for months now hasn't only taken human lives but also destroyed property and religious structures. A staggering number of 4,786 houses have reportedly been set ablaze in the conflicts while an additional 386 religious structures were vandalised. Among these desecrated places of worship are included as many as 254 churches and 132 temples.

Efforts Towards Restoration

In this dire situation, IGP Operations IK Muivah reassured citizens that efforts towards restoring peace are being pursued relentlessly. He stated that the police force along with central forces and civil administration is working round-the-clock to bring back normalcy to Manipur.

Three Killed In Fresh Violence In Manipur

Recovery Of Looted Arms And Ammunition

Muivah also shed light on another disturbing aspect of this ongoing unrest  looting of arms and ammunition from police by rioters during episodes of violence. However, he announced some positive news regarding recovery operations undertaken in this regard; out of all weapons reported lost, authorities have managed to recover approximately 1,359 firearms and around15,050 units of ammunition so far.

Rampant Arson Cases

The Inspector General further informed about the rampant arson cases witnessed amid these conflicts - totaling up to around5,172 incidents reported till date.

Safety Measures For Public Commute

In order to ensure safety for public commute amidst these turbulent times security barricades from Phougakchao Ikhai in Bishnupur district to Kangvai in Churachandpur district have been removed. Additionally, security has been provided on national highways, Muivah stated.

SC Agrees To Hear Plea Filed By 4 Editors Guild of India Members Against Manipur Police FIR

Identification Of Deceased

IGP Administration K Jayanta shared more details about the deceased victims of this strife. Out of 175 people who lost their lives during these conflicts, nine still remain unidentified. While 79 bodies have been claimed by families, a disheartening number of 96 bodies remain unclaimed and are kept at RIMS.

In conclusion, Manipur is currently going through one of its most challenging times with rampant ethnic strife causing loss of life and property on an enormous scale. The state authorities along with central forces are making consistent efforts to restore peace and normalcy while also ensuring public safety. However, the road towards complete recovery appears long given the extent of damage caused by this unrest.
Nipah Virus: Schools, Colleges Reopen After A Week As No New Case Since Sep 16 In Kozhikode

Nipah Patients In Kozhikode Show Unusual Respiratory Symptoms, Raising Diagnostic Concerns

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Nipah in Kerala: The doctor overseeing the treatment of four Nipah virus patients in Kozhikode, where two people have died and four others are undergoing treatment, has observed distinctive clinical symptoms in this outbreak compared to previous instances.

Dr. A. S. Anoop Kumar, the Director of Critical Care Medicine at Aster MIMS Hospital in Kozhikode, explained that this year's cases primarily manifest symptoms resembling respiratory infections. This presents a challenge in early diagnosis since many individuals contract viral fevers and influenza, which share similar symptoms, especially during the rainy season.

In contrast, during the 2018 Nipah outbreak in Kerala, which claimed 17 lives, and subsequent cases in the following years, patients exhibited symptoms of encephalitis. However, in the current outbreak, neurological symptoms have not been observed in patients.

Dr. Anoop, who played a pivotal role in detecting the Nipah virus in Kozhikode district in 2018 after several "unusual" fever-related deaths occurred within a short period in Changarothu village, stressed, "The predominant symptoms in these suspected patients, as well as the two fatalities, are typical respiratory symptoms. This complexity hinders prompt detection because viral fevers and influenza are widespread during the rainy season, even leading to localized influenza outbreaks. This makes early Nipah diagnosis particularly challenging. If the virus were to display symptoms of encephalitis, identifying suspected cases would have been more straightforward."

Nipah Virus Spreads In Kerala, 5 Cases Confirmed, 77 People in High-Risk Category | Top Updates

The respiratory infections in suspected Nipah patients this time have resulted in pneumonia and multi-organ failure, Dr. Anoop noted, also pointing out that the patients have low white blood cell (leukocyte) and platelet counts.

The doctor recommended that individuals exhibiting influenza-like symptoms should self-isolate.

Regarding Nipah virus strains, Dr. Anoop explained that there are two types: the Malaysian and the Bangladesh strains. He stated, "In Kerala, we have encountered the Bangladesh strain, which primarily facilitates human-to-human transmission of the virus."
Nipah Virus: Schools, Colleges Reopen After A Week As No New Case Since Sep 16 In Kozhikode

Nipah Virus Spreads In Kerala, 5 Cases Confirmed, 77 People in High-Risk Category | Top Updates

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

A 24-year-old healthcare worker who had close contact with a Nipah patient tested positive on Wednesday, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the state to five.

In response, the state government has declared containment zones and imposed restrictions to curb the virus's spread, but the extensive list of contacts raises concerns, with approximately 700 individuals having potentially been exposed. Among these, 77 individuals are categorized as high-risk, according to Kerala's Health Minister, Veena George.

Karnataka District Issues Alert Following Nipah Cases In Kerala

Top Updates on the Nipah Outbreak in Kerala:

High-risk Nipah patients have been advised to remain in their homes, and the travel routes of the two deceased Nipah patients have been publicly disclosed to prevent others from using those routes. In Kozhikode, restrictions have been enforced, prohibiting large gatherings at festivals and events. In Vadakara taluk of Kozhikode district, 58 wards across nine panchayats have been designated as containment zones. These areas allow only essential services and limited entry and exit. Shops selling essential goods can operate from 7 am to 5 pm, while pharmacies and health centers have no specified operating hours. Buses and vehicles passing through the containment zones on national highways are not allowed to stop. A nine-year-old boy in Kozhikode is suffering from the infection, and the government has ordered monoclonal antibodies from the ICMR for his treatment. Although there is no clinical evidence of its effectiveness against Nipah, it is currently the only available treatment option. The boy is receiving ventilator support. Approximately 700 individuals have come into contact with the confirmed cases, with 76 of them classified as high-risk. The minister reported that they are all in stable condition. While the current outbreak occurred in Kozhikode, Health Minister Veena George noted that according to WHO and ICMR studies, the entire state of Kerala is at risk of such infections. The Nipah strain detected in Kerala this time is the Bangladesh variant, which is less contagious but has a high mortality rate. This strain can spread from person to person. Nipah is a zoonotic virus transmitted from infected animals or contaminated food to humans, and it can subsequently spread from one infected person to another. Symptoms include fever, headache, cough, breathing difficulties, and vomiting, which in severe cases can lead to brain swelling and death. Kerala has previously reported Nipah outbreaks in 2018, as well as isolated cases in 2019 and 2021. In 2018, 17 out of 18 patients succumbed to the virus. The Nipah outbreak in Kerala has prompted heightened vigilance in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka. The health department has instructed the police to set up checkpoints at border entry points to inspect goods vehicles coming into the district. Police have also been directed to scrutinize fruits entering the state from Kerala.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, September 14, 2023, 8:17 [IST]
PM Modi Lays Foundation Stone Of Projects Worth Over Rs 50,700 cr In MP

India

oi-PTI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of projects worth more than Rs 50,700 crore including the Petrochemical Complex at Bina Refinery and ten new industrial projects across the state. On his arrival, he received a warm welcome from the people in Bina. The projects include a petrochemical complex at Bina refinery and 10 new industrial projects across the state. Assembly polls are due in MP this year-end. The official said the new projects in Madhya Pradesh will provide a major stimulus to industrial development in the state.

The state-of-the-art Bina refinery of the Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, which will be developed at a cost of about Rs 49,000 crore, will produce about 1,200 KTPA (Kilo-Tonnes Per Annum) of ethylene and propylene, vital components for various sectors like textiles, packaging and pharma among others.

This will reduce the country's import dependence and be a step towards fulfilling the prime minister's vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat', the official said. The mega project will also create employment opportunities and spur the development of downstream industries in the petroleum sector. During the programme, Modi will also lay the foundation stone of 10 projects, including power and renewable energy manufacturing zones in Narmadapuram district, two IT parks in Indore, a mega industrial park in Ratlam, and six new industrial areas across Madhya Pradesh. Later in the day, PM Modi will address a public rally in Raigarh district of poll-bound Chhattisgarh and also dedicate rail sector projects worth around Rs 6,350 crore during his visit to the Congress-ruled state.

BJP Passes Resolution Hailing PM Modi For 'Historic, Unprecedented' Success Of G20 Summit

He will also lay the foundation stone of 50-bed each 'critical care blocks' to be built in nine districts of Chhattisgarh under a healthcare initiative of the Centre.

The PM's visit to Chhattisgarh comes two days after the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rolled out its 'Paivartan Yatra' (March of Change) with an aim to oust the ruling Congress from power in the year-end assembly polls.
Strike Alert: Fuel Pumps in Rajasthan to Shut Indefinitely from September 15 Due to High VAT Protest

The Rajasthan Petroleum Dealers Association has called an indefinite strike starting September 15, protesting against high VAT on fuel. The association claims around 6,700 fuel pump owners are participating in the strike.

India

-Krishna Kripa

The Rajasthan Petroleum Dealers Association has declared an indefinite strike from September 15, protesting against the high Value Added Tax (VAT) imposed on fuel in the state. This move is expected to result in a complete shutdown of all filling stations across Rajasthan.

Strike Announcement

Rajendra Singh Bhati, the president of the association, released a statement on Thursday announcing that all filling stations in Rajasthan would cease buying and selling goods from/to depots starting at 6 am on September 15. Prior to this decision, the association had held symbolic strikes on Wednesday and Thursday to demand equalisation of VAT on petrol and diesel, akin to what is practiced in Punjab.

Executive Meeting Decision

The executive meeting of the association took place on Thursday evening where it was unanimously decided to hold a statewide indefinite strike beginning at 6 am on September 15. The announcement was made through an official statement by the association. According to officials from the association, approximately 6,700 fuel pump owners are participating in this strike action.

VAT Disparity

Sunit Bagai, former chief of the association pointed out earlier that VAT rates for fuel in Rajasthan are higher than those observed in Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. He noted how people living near border areas tend to travel into these neighbouring states for acquiring their fuel due to this price disparity.

Impact On Bordering Areas

This trend has led several petrol pumps situated particularly within Hanumangarh and other bordering regions of Rajasthan shutting down over recent years as they were unable sustain operations amidst mounting losses. Residents preferred travelling short distances into neighbouring states for purchasing petrol and diesel rather than buying locally due high VAT induced prices which have adversely affected local businesses.

In conclusion,the indefinite strike by the Rajasthan Petroleum Dealers Association is a significant move to protest against high VAT rates on fuel. The association aims to bring about an equalisation of VAT on petrol and diesel in line with other states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. The outcome of this strike could potentially influence future tax policies pertaining to fuel in the state. However, how long the consumers will have to bear the brunt of this shutdown remains uncertain as it largely depends on when and how the government responds to these demands.
'No Link Between My Film And The Issue': Actor Siddharth Disappointed After 'Chithha' Event Disrupted

Rio Kapadia, Actor Known For Chak De India And Dil Chahta Hai, Dies At 66

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Veteran actor Rio Kapadia has passed away on Thursday. He was 66. Known for his roles in movies such as 'Chak De! India,' 'Happy New Year,' and 'Mardaani,' he breathed his last on September 13. His close friend, Faisal Malik, confirmed this sad news to IndiaToday. He is survived by his wife, Maria Farah, and their children, Aman and Veer.

Rio's family has officially confirmed the demise and provided information regarding his funeral arrangements. The final farewell for Rio will be held at 11 a.m. on September 15 at Shiv Dham Shamshan Bhoomi in Goregaon.

A close friend of Kapadia issued an official statement, stating, "Dear friends, it is with deep sadness that I inform you of the passing of our dear friend Rio Kapadia at 12:30 pm today." Rio is survived by his wife, Maria, and daughter, Farah. His most recent appearance was in the series "Made In Heaven 2."

Throughout his career, Rio graced the silver screen in various films, including 'Khuda Haafiz,' 'The Big Bull,' 'Agent Vinod,' and more. He was recently featured in an episode of 'Made in Heaven 2.'

Beyond his cinematic endeavors, Rio was a well-known presence on television, where he made notable appearances in shows like 'Sapne Suhane Ladakpan Ke' and Siddharth Tewary's 'Mahabharat,' where he portrayed the role of King Subala of Gandhara, Gandhari's father.
Sajad Lone threatens to go on hunger strike if non-locals enrolled as voters in J&K

EPS, his supporters detained for trying to hold hunger strike in TN assembly

Telangana BJP Chief Continues Hunger Strike Against KCR

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Telangana BJP president and Union minister G Kishan on Tuesday continued his hunger strike against the KC Rao government at the party office in Nampally, Hyderabad.

On Monday, Hyderabad Police detained Reddy while he was sitting on a 24-hour hunger strike against K Chandrashekar Rao government in the state in Hyderabad's Indira Park.

The police also took into custody BJP workers who had gathered in a show of support for the state BJP president.

Hyderabad should remember Sardar Patel the most: Kishan Reddy

Reddy asserted that he had been "detained" for "voicing his protest against the unfulfilled promises of the BRS regarding employment opportunities for the youth."

#WATCH | Hyderabad: Telangana BJP president & Union minister G Kishan Reddy continues his hunger strike against the KC Rao government at Telangana BJP State party office, Nampally, Hyderabad. pic.twitter.com/Hj9qPBM0NU  ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2023

"Detained by the KCR government - All because I protested against the unmet commitments regarding jobs and the youth," posted the Telangana BJP president on X.

In another X post, he characterized his arrest as the "downfall" of K. Chandrashekar Rao.

BJPs Kishan Reddy hits out at KCRs party: Calls poaching case fabricated

"Your downfall, KCR garu, is tied to our arrest... The struggle continues, advocating for the rights of the people of Telangana. The KCR government cannot disrupt the peaceful protests of the BJP, which aim to address the concerns of the unemployed youth under his governance," Reddy stated on X.

Reddy began a hunger strike, alleging "injustice against the unemployed youth under the KCR government."

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, September 14, 2023, 10:41 [IST]
The United States has taken a critical step toward getting unjustly detained Americans home from Iran.

On September 11, Secretary of State Antony Blinken informed Congress that he had signed sanctions waivers facilitating the transfer of $6 billion dollars of Iranian funds that had been held in restricted accounts in the Republic of Korea. The funds will be ultimately transferred to accounts in Qatar, where they will be available to the Iranian government for humanitarian transactions only.

In its documentation to Congress, the State Department said the transfer of the funds is necessary to facilitate the release of five U.S. citizens detained in Iran. In addition, the U.S. has committed to release five Iranian nationals currently detained in the United States.

Signing off on the sanctions waivers to release the Iranian funds was necessary because, as State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller made clear, a number of banks  did not want to participate in transactions related to these accounts. Now, he said, the funds are in the process of being transferred to their ultimate destination, which is these accounts in Qatar.

When this money arrives in these accounts in Qatar, it will be held there under strict oversight by the United States Treasury Department, and the money can only be used for humanitarian purposes, and we remain vigilant in watching the spending of those funds and have the ability to freeze them again if we need to, he said.

John Kirby, National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications, emphasized that the funds are Irans, and that [t]he Iranian people will be the beneficiaries  not the regime:

The regime doesnt get to touch the money  It doesnt go to them; they dont decide the ultimate destination and they have no direct access to it.

Coordinator Kirby said that United States policy toward Iran and its leaders has not changed.

We will continue to counter the Iran regimes human rights abuses. Well continue to counter their destabilizing actions abroad, its support for terrorism, its attack on maritime shipping in the Gulf, and its continued support for Russias war against Ukraine, he said.

Getting Americans home requires decisions, sometimes really tough decisions, said Coordinator Kirby. And we make no apologies for the fact that were going to get these five Americans home just as soon as possible.
First Ever Hindi Publication of The Lancet's Southeast Asian Edition Announced

'The Lancet', one of the world's most prestigious medical journals, will publish its 'Regional Health - Southeast Asia' edition in Hindi for the first time. This move is aimed at making scientific research more accessible and inclusive.

India

-Krishna Kripa

The Southeast Asian edition of the internationally renowned English medical journal, The Lancet, will be published in Hindi for the first time. This significant announcement was made on Thursday and coincided with Hindi Diwas. It represents a crucial step forward in making scientific research more accessible and inclusive.

A Landmark Event

Madhya Pradesh Medical Education Minister Vishwas Sarang revealed that The Lancet Regional Health - Southeast Asia would be translated into Hindi in collaboration with experts from the Bhopal-based Gandhi Medical College (GMC) and MP directorate of medical education (MP-DME). The translation will be published bi-monthly. This initiative marks a milestone as it is the first time any publication by The Lancet is being brought out in Hindi.

Bridging Language Barriers

This development comes as part of efforts by Madhya Pradesh's BJP government to promote Hindi in medical education for students who are not comfortable with English. Minister Sarang described this move as a landmark event that aims at promoting inclusivity within the field of medicine.

The Lancets Commitment to Accessibility

Fiona Macnab, The Lancet's deputy publishing director, expressed her enthusiasm about this new venture during an interaction with reporters at GMC. She emphasized how important it is to make science and content more accessible to researchers and students who may face language barriers. Currently, besides English, The Lancet publications are also available in Spanish and Portuguese.

Promoting Inclusivity through Translation

The decision to translate one of the worlds leading health journals into Hindi underlines a commitment towards ensuring knowledge accessibility across linguistic boundaries. By doing so, they aim to foster greater inclusivity within scientific communities by enabling those uncomfortable with English to access high-quality research material without difficulty.

The Lancets Milestone

The British peer-reviewed general medical journal is in its 200th year of publication. This move to publish a Hindi edition signifies not just a milestone for The Lancet, but also marks an important step towards language inclusivity in the global scientific community.

In conclusion, the decision by The Lancet to publish its Southeast Asian edition in Hindi represents a significant stride towards promoting linguistic diversity and inclusivity within the field of medical education and research. This initiative will benefit researchers and students who are more comfortable with Hindi, thereby making scientific knowledge more accessible. It serves as a testament to the commitment of both The Lancet and Madhya Pradesh's BJP government towards fostering inclusivity within scientific communities through language accessibility.
Dharmendra Pradhan Convenes Meeting with Interim VCs Amidst Ongoing Controversy in West Bengal

Amid the controversy over appointments of interim vice-chancellors, they meet Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The meeting is aimed at discussing academic issues and improving the higher education system.

India

-Krishna Kripa

On September 14th, a critical gathering took place in Kolkata involving several interim vice-chancellors of state universities who were recently appointed by West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose. The meeting was convened by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and held at a city hotel. This assembly comes amidst an ongoing dispute between the Raj Bhavan and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government over the appointments of these officiating vice-chancellors.

The programme was designed to foster dialogue among the central minister, vice chancellors, and university authorities on pertinent academic issues. As per a BJP leader's statement, this meeting served as an open interaction with academicians and stakeholders in the higher education system, aiming at its improvement.

Participants

The list of attendees included notable figures such as Soma Banerjee, VC of West Bengal University of Teachers Training; Education Planning and Administration; Santa Dutta, interim VC of Calcutta University; Rathin Banerjee, North Bengal University's interim VC; and Susanta Chakraborty, interim VC for Vidyasagar University.

Previous Meetings

This recent convocation follows another significant meeting that occurred just one week prior. That previous meeting involved registrars from 31 universities and was arranged by the state higher education department. However, only 12 registrars could attend due to threats preventing their participation while 19 others were unable to partake.

This series of meetings highlight the importance being placed on higher education within West Bengal currently. The discussions aim not only to resolve any disputes but also enhance academic standards across all state universities through collaborative efforts between key stakeholders in academia.

A Move Towards Improvement

The involvement of high-ranking officials like Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan signifies the central government's commitment to higher education. Such meetings provide a platform for open dialogue and brainstorming, creating an opportunity for improving academic standards, policies, and practices. The presence of interim vice-chancellors from various universities further suggests that these discussions are being taken seriously at all levels.

In conclusion, this meeting marks a significant step towards resolving ongoing disputes between the Raj Bhavan and TMC over the appointment of officiating VCs. Moreover, it also underscores the collective efforts being made by authorities to improve the quality of higher education in West Bengal state universities. As stakeholders continue to engage in constructive dialogue about academic issues, there is hope that such collaborative efforts will yield positive results in terms of enhancing educational standards across all institutions.
End of Statewide Lawyers Strike in Uttar Pradesh Announced by Bar Council After Successful Negotiations

After a strike that began on August 30 due to alleged police brutality, lawyers in Uttar Pradesh have called off their protest following positive talks with Chief Secretary Durga Shankar Mishra. The Bar Council president Shiv Kishore Gaur stated that all cases registered against advocates during the movement will be dropped and demands for suspension and transfer of guilty police officers have been accepted.

India

-Krishna Kripa

The Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh, on Thursday night, announced the cessation of the statewide strike by lawyers after a successful dialogue with the chief secretary. This announcement brings an end to a 15-day long protest that had been initiated by lawyers across Uttar Pradesh since August 30 following alleged police lathi-charge on advocates in Hapur.

Positive Talks Lead To Strike Resolution

In what is being hailed as a positive development, the talks between Chief Secretary Durga Shankar Mishra and representatives from the Bar Council were fruitful. The Chief Secretary has assured that all cases registered against advocates during this period of protests will be dropped. "The talks with Chief Secretary Durga Shankar Mishra were very positive," said Shiv Kishore Gaur, President of Uttar Pradesh Bar Council.

Committee For Advocates Protection Law Formed

As part of the resolution process, Gaur also announced that a committee has been constituted to look into matters concerning advocate protection laws. He stated that this committee would include representation from both the government and Bar Council and would work towards passing a proposal for such law within specified time limits.

Demand For Police Action Accepted

Gaur further added that their demand for suspension and transfer of guilty police officers in Hapur was accepted by the government. "The government has accepted our demand for suspension of guilty police officers and transfer of top police officers in Hapur," he said while announcing their decision to call off the strike.

Allahabad High Court Bar Association's Stand

In an interesting turn of events, Ashok Kumar Singh, president of Allahabad High Court Bar Association seemed unaware about these developments when he declared continuation of their strike on Friday. He stated they will discuss these latest updates from bar council in their meeting scheduled tomorrow morning and then decide the future course of action.

In conclusion, this development signifies a major breakthrough in the ongoing tussle between the lawyers and government officials in Uttar Pradesh. The successful dialogue with Chief Secretary Durga Shankar Mishra has not only brought an end to the statewide strike but also paved way for further discussions on important issues such as advocate protection laws. However, it remains to be seen how Allahabad High Court Bar Association reacts to this latest decision from Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh.
Why BJP Is Silent On TDP Chief Naidu's Arrest And What Is Its Game Plan In Andhra?

India

oi-Prakash KL

Actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan on Thursday announced that his Janasena Party, an ally of the NDA, and TDP will go together in the next elections.

Kalyan met TDP Chief N Chandrababu Naidu at Rajamahendravaram central prison. "Andhra Pradesh can't afford YSRCP. I have made the decision today. Janasena and TDP will go together in the next elections," PTI quoted Kalyan as telling reporters, accompanied by Naidu's son and party general secretary Nara Lokesh and Hindupur MLA and Naidu's brother-in-law Nandamuri Balakrishna.

His Janasena had been dillydallying all this while as to whether both parties would contest the next elections together. Kalyan also said that he had complete faith in the BJP that it would join the two opposition parties for the polls.

Political observers have been expecting the BJP to join hands with the TDP to take on the YSRCP after his meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP President J P Nadda, setting about the alliance.

BJP's Silence

What has caught many by surprise is the studied silence of the BJP over Naidu's arrest. After the TDP Chief was arrested, the BJP criticised the move but did not support the bandh call given by the TDP.

"The arrest sans a proper notice, without his name mentioned in the FIR, without seeking an explanation and bypassing procedures is unjustified. The BJP condemns this," BJP State President D Purandeshwari and Naidu's sister-in-law D Purandeswari wrote on microblogging site X (formerly Twitter) over the arrest.

As per the political analysts, the BJP state leaders might have been instructed to go soft on the Jagan government. However, this has not gone well with the TDP.

TDP senior leader and former minister Ayyanna Patrudu has targeted the Centre asking whether the Andhra CM might have not arrested the TDP Chief without Centre's knowledge. What is the use of Modi and Shah conducting G-20 summit in Delhi when the state government is resorting to vengeance politics in AP?" News9 quoted him as saying.

The BJP's move has left wondering whether the saffron party has joined hands with the YSRCP. Further, the recent I-T notices clearly indicate that they are not on Naidu's side this time.

What's BJP Game Plan For Andhra

It is believed that the silence is a well-thought-out decision as the BJP wants to gain a foothold in Andhra politics. The party aims to carve out its own presence and carefully assess its future strategies.

It has always been a bipolar contest between Congress and the TDP in Andhra. After the Jagan broke away from Congress and formed YSRCP, the grand old party lost its significance and the battle since then has been between TDP and Jagan's party.

The challenge for the BJP is to now establish itself firmly in Andhra and find a distinct place within the state's political landscape, which is currently dominated by the TDP and YSRCP.

As far as the YSRCP is concerned, the party has the support of the Reddys, backward castes and minorities while the TDP has the support from Kammas, a large section of middle class, educated salariat and business and traders.

Although it's challenging to sway the YSRCP's voter base, there is an opportuntiy for the party to appeal to the TDP's support base, especially considering that the middle class and the business community constitute the traditional voter base of the BJP in other regions of the country. As a result, the saffron party will not benefit by joining Naidu's cause.

With an ageing Naidu on one side, and his son Lokesh lacking his father's political acumen, the BJP could seize an opportunity to make inroads into the TDP's political base. This appears to be the BJP's strategy.

One might expect a better picture of the BJP's stand after the Special Session of Parliament, which is scheduled to be held between September 18 and 22, concludes.
Nipah Virus: Schools, Colleges Reopen After A Week As No New Case Since Sep 16 In Kozhikode

Will Lockdown Return In Kerala Over Nipah Outbreak?

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

The Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala has raised concerns about the possibility of a lockdown being imposed in the state. The virus is highly contagious and can be fatal, and the government is taking steps to contain the spread.

On Thursday, the Kozhikode District Collector A Geetha declared a holiday for all educational institutions in the district. She also said that educational institutions could arrange online classes on the two days for students. However, there will be no change in university exams schedule, she said.

This is the first time that a holiday has been declared in Kerala due to the Nipah outbreak. It is a sign that the government is taking the situation seriously and is prepared to take further measures if necessary.

The Kerala government has already imposed lockdown-like restrictions in the containment zones, which include a ban on public gatherings and the closure of schools and businesses.

Nipah Patients In Kozhikode Show Unusual Respiratory Symptoms, Raising Diagnostic Concerns

It is possible that the government could impose a lockdown in Kerala if the Nipah outbreak worsens. However, it must be noted that the state government has not made any such announcement on lockdown yet.

It is important to note that a lockdown is a drastic measure and should only be used as a last resort. A lockdown can have a significant negative impact on the economy and society.

Spike in Nipah cases:

On Wednesday, a 24-year-old healthcare worker became the fifth confirmed Nipah case in Kerala during the recent outbreak.

Simultaneously, in the neighboring district of Wayanad, a 24-hour control room was established in response to the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode. The Wayanad district administration also formed 15 core committees tasked with leading prevention and surveillance efforts, effectively managing emergency situations.

The virus strain identified in the state is the Bangladesh variant, which has a high mortality rate and spreads from human to human, albeit with lower infectiousness, according to government statements.

Nipah Virus Spreads In Kerala, 5 Cases Confirmed, 77 People in High-Risk Category | Top Updates

State Health Minister Veena George reported that the condition of all 76 individuals classified as high-risk contacts remains stable.

Additionally, the government noted that 13 other individuals with mild symptoms are under hospital monitoring, with only a 9-year-old child among the infected individuals requiring treatment in the Intensive Care Unit.

Route Maps Of Nipah Victims

Veena George also explained that the Kerala government has established 19 committees to oversee the Nipah virus outbreak in the state.

"We have introduced a telemedicine service and set up 19 committees to diligently monitor the Nipah virus situation. As of now, individuals classified as high-risk have not displayed any symptoms," stated Veena George.

Elaborating further, she mentioned that the travel routes of the deceased have been made public, and individuals in the high-risk category are advised to remain indoors. If any symptoms arise, they are encouraged to reach out to the call center.

Check Guidelines in Containment Zones:

In containment zones, residents were instructed to adhere to social distancing measures, wear masks, and utilize hand sanitisers.

Entry and exit to and from containment zones have been strictly forbidden, and barriers will be positioned at the entrance of each ward.

Medical stores and essential retail establishments are permitted to operate within containment zones, with business hours limited to 7 am to 5 pm. However, medical shops, health centers, and hospitals within the containment zones can operate without time restrictions.

Banks, schools, and anganwadi centers will remain closed until further notice.

Public road transportation is prohibited within containment zones.

Vehicles traveling on national and state highways are prohibited from stopping within the confines of the containment zones.
Women Entering Temples As Priests Under Tamil Nadu's Dravidian Model, Says Stalin

India

oi-PTI

Chief Minister MK Stalin on Thursday said women are all set to enter temples in Tamil Nadu as priests under the Dravidian model of governance.

Stalin said on social media platform X: "Despite women's achievements as pilots and astronauts, they were barred from the sacred role of temple priests, deemed impure, even in the temples for female deities. But change is finally here!

"In Tamil Nadu, as our Dravidian model government has removed the thorn from Thanthai Periyar's heart by appointing people of all castes as priests, women are also now stepping into the sanctums, bringing a new era of inclusivity and equality."

Under a state programme to suitably train and appoint persons belonging to all castes as priests, three women have completed training at the Archakar (priest) Training School run by the Sri Ranganathar temple in Srirangam, Tiruchirappalli.

Case Registered Against Udhayanidhi Stalin For Comments On Sanatan Dharma

Reformist leader 'Periyar' E V Ramasamy had once described not permitting non-Brahmins to perform the role of priests in temples as a "thorn" in his heart.

Already, women officiate as priests in some temples in the state. Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister P K Sekar Babu had said in 2021 that women could be appointed as priests in temples following their training.
Who is Ajay Banga? All you need to know about the next World Bank president

World Bank Supports Odisha with Funds for Enhanced Disaster Response and Social Protection Systems

The World Bank will fund the Odisha governments efforts to enhance its disaster management capabilities and expand social protection coverage. The funding aims at improving early warning systems, mitigating economic and climate shocks effects on vulnerable households, as well as promoting better use of digital data for resilience planning.

India

-Krishna Kripa

The World Bank has pledged to provide financial assistance to the government of Odisha, India, in an effort to bolster its early warning systems for natural disasters and expand social protection coverage for impoverished and vulnerable households via digital platforms. This decision was announced in an official statement released on Thursday.

Collaboration between the Odisha Government and World Bank

A meeting took place on Wednesday between representatives from the Odisha government and a team from the World Bank. The discussion was presided over by Development Commissioner Anu Garg and focused on the Externally Aided Project (EAP) - Odisha State Capability and Resilient Growth Programme (OSCRGP). This collaborative initiative aims at safeguarding poor and vulnerable households from economic downturns as well as climate-related shocks prevalent in Odisha.

Funding Details of OSCRGP

In July, an agreement was signed between India's central government and the World Bank regarding this programme. The total cost of implementing OSCRGP is estimated around Rs 1,183 crore ($159 million), with state funding contributing Rs 367 crore ($49 million), according to a government official. Approval for this project had been granted by the state cabinet in December of last year.

Effective Implementation Date

The World Bank declared that OSCRGP would be effective starting August 11, 2023. During discussions about expediting the implementation process, Garg emphasized how managing disaster risks effectively could help protect disadvantaged communities from economic hardship brought about by climate change impacts.

Strategic Use of Digital Data

Garg also highlighted how leveraging digital data more strategically could enhance resilience efforts while improving service delivery mechanisms and planning processes within these communities. She noted that EAP would supplement governmental initiatives already underway in areas such as disaster risk management and social protection.

In conclusion, the World Bank's decision to fund Odisha's early forecasting systems and digital platform-based social protections represents a significant step forward in protecting vulnerable households from economic and climate shocks. This collaboration with the Odisha government underscores the importance of international partnerships in addressing pressing global issues such as climate change and poverty alleviation. The project is expected to have a far-reaching impact on enhancing resilience among poor communities in Odisha while providing them with improved access to essential services through digital means.
Ex-Austrian Foreign Minister Karin Kneissl Relocates to Russia, Establishes Think Tank

Karin Kneissl, the ex-Foreign Minister of Austria who invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to her wedding in 2018, has announced that she's moved to St. Petersburg and is setting up a think tank there. Her move comes amidst criticism for her pro-Russia views during her tenure as foreign minister.

International

-Sathish Raman

The former Austrian foreign minister, Karin Kneissl, who had controversially invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to her wedding and danced a waltz with him at the 2018 reception, has announced that she has relocated to St. Petersburg in Russia to establish a think tank. The announcement was made on Wednesday via the messaging app Telegram.

Karin Kneissl's Shift from Austria to Russia

Kneissl, aged 58 years old and affiliated with the right-wing Freedom Party, held office as foreign minister from 2017 until 2019. During her tenure, she faced consistent criticism in both Austrian and German media for her apparent pro-Russia views. Her decision to invite Putin to her wedding and share a dance with him raised eyebrows across Europe. This incident occurred only months after Russia was implicated in the poisoning of ex-spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia using Novichok nerve agent on UK soil.

Transportation of Personal Belongings

In an intriguing detail shared by Kneissl herself, it came to light that her ponies which were previously sheltered in Syria have also been transported to Russia via a Russian military plane. Furthermore, she revealed that she moved her "books, clothes and ponies from Marseille (France) to Beirut" in June 2022 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine which subsequently led France banishing her.

Establishment of Gorki Centre

At the Eastern Economic Forum held earlier this week in VladivostokRussias far eastern cityKneissl informed Tass (a state-owned news agency) about setting up Gorki Centrea think tank associated with fostering intellectual discourse concerning international relations and geopolitics presumably favoring Russian perspectives given Kneissls political inclination.

The move by the former Austrian foreign minister highlights a growing trend of Western politicians aligning themselves with Russia. It also raises questions about the extent to which Kneissl's pro-Russia views may have influenced her decisions while she was in office, and what this could mean for Austria's relationship with Russia moving forward.

In conclusion, Karin Kneissls relocation to St. Petersburg and establishment of a think tank is likely to fuel further debates on the influence of Russia over European politics. As she continues her work from Russian soil, it would be interesting to see how her perspectives shape up in future discourses surrounding international relations and geopolitics.
North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un Backs Putin in Ukraine Conflict: A New Strategic Alliance?

In a recent summit, North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un has pledged his full and unconditional support for Russias Vladimir Putin amidst escalating tensions in Ukraine. The meeting suggests a growing alignment of interests between the two countries, with potential implications for global security dynamics.

International

-Sathish Raman

On Wednesday, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged "full and unconditional support" for Russian President Vladimir Putin as the two leaders, who are both isolated by the West, convened a summit. The United States has expressed concerns that this meeting could result in an agreement to supply ammunition for Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine. This recent development underscores how the interests of these two countries are aligning.

Aligning Interests of Russia and North Korea

The summit between Putin and Kim lasted over four hours at Russia's spaceport in the Far East. Analysts believe that Putin is seeking one of the few things impoverished North Korea can offer - stockpiles of aging ammunition and rockets for Soviet-era weapons. Such a request would signify a role reversal from the 1950-53 Korean War when Moscow provided weapons to back Pyongyang's invasion of South Korea, followed by decades of Soviet sponsorship.

A Meeting at Vostochny Cosmodrome: A Strategic Decision?

The decision to hold their meeting at Vostochny Cosmodrome, Russia's most significant launch center on its own soil, suggests another dimension to their cooperation. It indicates that Kim might be soliciting Russian assistance in developing military reconnaissance satellites which he deems crucial for enhancing his nuclear-capable missiles' threat level.

North Korea's Kim Vows Full Support For Russia's 'Sacred Fight' After Viewing Launchpads With Putin

North Korea has consistently failed in its attempts to put its first military spy satellite into orbit. This failure makes Russian help more appealing and necessary if they want to achieve their goal.

An Arrival Symbolizing Power

In an interesting display of power dynamics, Putin met Kims limousine brought from Pyongyang via the North Korean leaders armored train right at the entrance. This gesture signifies respect towards Kim but also subtly highlights Russia's strategic position as a potential aid provider.

This alliance between Russia and North Korea, while not new, is becoming more critical given the current geopolitical climate. Both countries are facing sanctions and isolation from the West, making their cooperation a strategic necessity rather than an option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the recent summit between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin signifies a strengthening of ties between Russia and North Korea. This development could have significant implications on international politics, especially in relation to the United States' relations with these two nations. The alignment of interests between these two isolated nations might potentially change the dynamics of power in global politics. As such, it is crucial for other world powers to keep a keen eye on this evolving relationship.
Slovakian Supreme Court Dismisses Lawsuit By Former Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis Over Secret Police Allegations

International

-Sathish Raman

The Supreme Court of Slovakia has confirmed a prior ruling that dismissed a lawsuit by former Czech Prime Minister, Andrej Babis, against allegations of collaboration with the secret police during the communist era in Czechoslovakia. This announcement was made public by Babis himself through the local Czech CTK news agency. The verdict is final and irrevocable.

Babis' Legal Battle

Andrej Babis, originally from Slovakia, had lodged a lawsuit against Slovakia's Institute of the Nation's Memory. This organization holds parts of his secret police files which came into its possession following the split of Czechoslovakia into separate nations - the Czech Republic and Slovakia - in 1993. Some records were destroyed over time; however, those that remain intact allegedly provide evidence that Babis served as an agent under the code name "Bures" starting from 1982.

Babis has consistently refuted these claims vehemently. His legal battle began when Bratislava's regional court initially rejected his lawsuit back in 2018. Subsequently, on appeal to higher authority, Slovakias Constitutional Court ordered a retrial stating that it was inappropriate for the institute to be sued in this case and instead directed towards Slovak Interior Ministry as respondent.

Legal Tussle Continues

In spite of this direction for retrial by Constitutional Court, Bratislavas regional court once again dismissed Babis case earlier this year (2022). Essentially implying that despite shuffling between courts and reshuffling respondents  first being Institute of Nations Memory then Slovak Interior Ministry  there has been no change in stance regarding allegations faced by Andrej Babis.

Billionaire Turned Politician

Andrej Babis is not just known for his political career but also as a billionaire. He is currently in opposition after his populist ANO centrist movement lost during the 2021 parliamentary election. Despite this setback, Babis made an attempt to secure the largely ceremonial post of Czech president in January's elections but was defeated by Petr Pavel, a retired army general.

Despite his financial success and political ambitions, the allegations of collaboration with communist-era secret police continue to cast a shadow over Andrej Babis' reputation. This recent ruling by Slovakia's Supreme Court further adds to that narrative.

The Final Verdict

In conclusion, despite multiple legal attempts and vigorous denials from Andrej Babis himself, the allegations of him having ties with communist-era secret police persist. The Slovak Supreme Court's decision to uphold previous rulings dismissing his lawsuit against these allegations has essentially cemented these claims into public record. It remains to be seen how this will impact Babis future political aspirations or if he will take any further steps towards clearing his name.
The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) is delighted to announce an important new hire to its team in Brazil, with Roberta Cox starting as the new Policy Director. With a solid knowledge in the environmental and energy sectors, Roberta joins GWEC's team with a mission to collaborate on the development and implementation of offshore wind in the country, seeking to enhance the positive environmental and social impacts of this new technology, in addition to facilitating dialogue between the wind industry, the public sector and communities involved, directly or indirectly, in the implementation of this new technology.

"Offshore wind energy could facilitate the new industrialization of our country, electrification of polluting sectors and even export energy through green hydrogen. We are talking about income generation, green jobs, reduction of emissions in several sectors. We currently have 75 cases open at Ibama. What we need now is to define the regulation so that the investment arrives in Brazil and is not directed to other countries. Climate change is getting worse and the scenario does not allow for delay, Brazil can make a difference and be an important collaborator in the global just energy transition. That's what motivates me and that's what I intend to collaborate with the GWEC with great enthusiasm!", emphasized Roberta Cox.

Ben Backwell, CEO of GWEC, welcomed the new executive, who joins GWEC's global efforts to develop offshore wind. "Brazil has the potential to play a central role in the expansion of this technology in the world and we need to act in every way to make that happen. Offshore wind is a key element in providing transforming, clean and safe energy systems. Our global initiatives such as the Global Offshore Wind Alliance (GOWA) and the Ocean Energy Pathway (OEP) move in this direction", he highlights.

Education and Professional Background

Roberta Cox is an Environmental Engineer, graduated from the Federal University of Itajuba and studying for a master's degree in Economic Management of the Environment in the economics department of UnB.

Since 2009 working for IBAMA (Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources), from which she is licensed, she worked in the Licensing Board in the coordination of transmission lines; in the coordination of oil and gas and in the coordination of energy generation by nuclear, thermal and other alternative sources.

Specifically in offshore wind, the new director of GWEC had a significant participation in the elaboration of the International Workshop on Offshore Wind, as well as in the elaboration of the Term of Reference (TOR) for offshore wind and in its launching event. While at Ibama, she worked as a Environmental Licensing Coordinator for Ports and Maritime Structures at Ibama. Assigned to the MMA, Roberta was also special advisor to the Ministry of the Environment for Energy Transition and Green Industrialization. In 2022 she joined the Management Board of the National Hydrogen Program COGES-PNH2.
Thai Government Gives Green Light for Visa-Free Travel for Chinese Visitors in Bid to Revive Tourism Industry

International

-Sathish Raman

In a bid to resuscitate its flagging tourism industry, the new government of Thailand has approved temporary visa-free entry for Chinese tourists. This move indicates that reviving the country's tourism sector is one of its top economic priorities. The measure will also extend to visitors from Kazakhstan and will be effective from September 25 until February 29 next year.

Revitalizing Thailands Tourism Industry

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced this decision on Wednesday, emphasizing that all relevant authorities had been consulted in order to ensure readiness for the anticipated influx of travellers. Over a decade ago, China became a major source of tourists for Thailand, with nearly 11 million visitors in 2019 alone; this accounted for an impressive 27.6% of all arrivals in the year preceding the coronavirus pandemic which subsequently crippled global tourism.

The Impact on Thai Economy

The Thai economy experienced severe contraction during the pandemic as its significant tourism industry virtually collapsed under travel restrictions and safety concerns. In comparison, prior to COVID-19 crisis, Thailand welcomed approximately 40 million international visitors in 2019 who generated substantial revenue according to government estimates.

Good News For US H-1B Visa Holders, Family Members Can Now Apply For Open Work Permit In Canada

Visa Exemption: A Strategic Move

The government's proposal for visa exemption comes amidst worries that current strict visa requirements might deter Chinese tourists from visiting Thailand thus causing it not meet its initial target of attracting five million Chinese tourists this year. As reported by The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), around only about 1.4 million Chinese tourists visited within first six months of this year - a number significantly lower than pre-pandemic figures.

Conclusion: A Step Towards Recovery?

This strategic move by Thai Government can be seen as an attempt at stimulating recovery following a period characterized by unprecedented economic hardship due to the pandemic. By easing visa requirements for tourists from China and Kazakhstan, Thailand is hoping to attract more visitors and thus boost its tourism industry  a sector that plays an essential role in its economy.

However, it remains to be seen how effective this measure will be given the ongoing global health crisis. While there's potential for increased tourist influx from these countries, uncertainties linked with travel during a pandemic might still pose significant challenges. Nevertheless, this initiative signals Thailands determination to revive its tourism sector and can be considered as part of wider efforts by nations worldwide to gradually reopen their borders while grappling with economic recovery post-pandemic.
Shubham couldn't have enmity with anyone, says father on son's stabbing in Australia

US Cop Caught Joking Over Death Of Andhra Student, India Seeks Probe

International

oi-Madhuri Adnal

India has called upon the United States to initiate a comprehensive investigation into bodycam footage capturing a Seattle police officer making inappropriate comments about the tragic death of an Indian student who was struck by a speeding police vehicle.

Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old student, lost her life in January when she was struck by a police car driven by Officer Kevin Dave, who was reportedly traveling at nearly 120 kmph while responding to an overdose call, as reported by the Seattle Times. Kandula was pursuing her master's degree at Northeastern University's Seattle campus.

In a video released by the Seattle Police Department on Monday, another police officer can be heard making callous remarks and laughing while discussing the incident.

Recent reports including in media of the handling of Ms Jaahnavi Kandulas death in a road accident in Seattle in January are deeply troubling. We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle & Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington DC  India in SF (@CGISFO) September 13, 2023

In the video, Daniel Auderer, the Vice President of the Seattle Police Officers' Guild, can be heard saying, "She is dead," followed by laughter, and he refers to Ms. Kandula as "a regular person." Amidst fits of laughter, he adds, "Yeah, just write a check. Eleven thousand dollars."

Recommended Video

Jaahnavi Kandula death: India demands probe after US cop mocks incident | Oneindia News

Body Camera Exposes Seattle Police Laughing At Indian-Origin Student's Death

Recent reports including in media of the handling of Ms Jaahnavi Kandulas death in a road accident in Seattle in January are deeply troubling. We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle & Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington DC  India in SF (@CGISFO) September 13, 2023

The clip concludes with his statement, "She was 26 anyway; she had limited value," incorrectly stating her age.

The Indian Consulate in San Francisco has expressed deep concern about the handling of Kandula's tragic accident and has called for action against those involved in the case. In a statement posted on X (formerly known as Twitter), the consulate stated, "We have strongly raised this matter with local authorities in Seattle & Washington State, as well as senior officials in Washington DC, for a thorough investigation & action in this tragic case. The Consulate & Embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all concerned authorities."

More abt the incident



We all should take strict action against this criminal and injustice to Indian citizens in other country pic.twitter.com/rSVfIbL8bE  Ansh (@Pvt_insaann) September 13, 2023

Jaahnavi Kandula, who hailed from Andhra Pradesh, had been pursuing her master's degree at Northeastern University in Seattle, according to a GoFundMe fundraiser initiated to support her family.

"The family has nothing to say, except I wonder if these men's daughters or granddaughters have value. A life is a life," remarked her uncle, Ashok Kandula, as quoted on the fundraising page.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, September 14, 2023, 10:11 [IST]
For govt jobs in Goa, one-year work experience will be a must, says CM

Goa Govt Introduces Strict Clause In Shack Policy: Details Here

Panaji

oi-PTI

The Goa State Shack Policy 2023-26 approved by the state cabinet last week has introduced a strict clause to discourage allottees from subletting beach shacks to other people, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said on Thursday.

As per the new policy, which will be in effect till 2026 and aims to boost youth engagement and tourism growth in the coastal state, only one member from a family will be allotted a shack, the minister told reporters.

Unlike the previous policy, there is no longer a requirement to submit Demand Draft as a security deposit at the time of submitting the application. Instead, this deposit is only necessary after the draw of lots and solely from successful allottees, he said.

False Tsunami Alert Triggers Panic At Porvorim In Goa

"Additionally, successful allottees now have the option to mutually agree upon the location of their shack among themselves and also swap locations within seven days from the draw of lots," Khaunte said.

On various occasions, the shack owners' associations had raised concerns about subletting and emphasised the importance of providing opportunities to local people, he said. A strict penalty clause has been introduced to discourage the subletting of shacks, the minister said.

"The promotion of Goan cuisine is also actively encouraged under this policy," he said.

''The policy is a ground-breaking initiative that not only paves the way for thriving beach side establishments but also seeks to empower and provide invaluable opportunities to the youth of Goa," he said.

Its implementation aims to address the issue of demographic dividend and stimulate entrepreneurial opportunities for locals and young individuals, he said.

He said the Goa State Shack Policy 2023-26 is a highly effective policy that enables the establishment of temporary seasonal beach shacks and placement of deck beds, umbrellas, tables and chairs.

Goa AAP Chief Palekar Arrested For 'Misrepresentation Of Facts' Over Car Crash

''With this policy, the Goa government has demonstrated its commitment to fostering tourism, engaging the youth and driving economic growth within our picturesque state,'' the minister said.

''The policy is a win-win situation for our youth and tourists alike. It not only empowers our young entrepreneurs, but also enhances the overall tourist experience, making Goa a top choice for travellers seeking sun, sand and a taste of our unique culture,'' he added.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, September 14, 2023, 15:49 [IST]
Can you use a personal loan for the down payment on your home? Know every aspect

Social worker Santosh T. Dhuwali urges youth to use the Internet to promote social causes

Partner Content

oi-Oneindia English Desk

Youth is that vibrant thread that weaves the future of a country. In their hands rests the power to shape societies, challenge norms, and ignite the fires of innovation that propel nations forward. With the same belief, famous social worker Santosh T. Dhuwali has shared his viewpoints on how youth can steer society towards growth with the help of the internet.

With every passing day, the country is drifting apart on the grounds of equality, secularism, and the very essence of unity that forms the bedrock of a harmonious society. These are not mere abstract concepts; they are the pillars upon which nations are built. Santosh understands that the youth, who are the torchbearers of tomorrow, can harness the full potential of the internet to fill in the gaps made by these social problems.

He says, "The internet is a very powerful medium, and it should be used correctly. Every day, we come across posts that demean other religions or defame a person. Instead of using it to spread misinformation and hate content, we should use it to propagate ideologies that underline unity and patriotism. And who could do it better than the youth?"

Giving his insights on how young people can make their voices heard, Santosh says, "Who isn't scrolling through reels and those short videos? Everybody is! Similarly, we can use it effectively to spread the word of peace. This would only require a little bit of creativity and conviction."

Santosh also added, "The youth is that rich mine of innovation that every country wants to tap into. We should start promoting the idea of a peaceful and progressive society by imbibing positive social values and banishing hate. We can only change the world with our indomitable spirits and passion for learning."

We are sure that the social worker's words will inspire youth. His work and vision have always been dedicated to building a great society. Santosh has an influential background in the political sphere as well. He is the General Secretary for the Maharashtra NCP. Besides that, he has a stronghold in Bandra and is also the observer for Mira Bhayandar.

Besides his political stint and social work, he is also a thriving entrepreneur. He owns multiple restaurants in Mumbai, Pune, and Dubai as well as a few hotels and restaurants in Thailand. We hope that with his ideas and words, he will keep motivating others.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, September 14, 2023, 16:07 [IST]
Saudi Arabia and Russia are tightening their grip on oil markets, and it is having some undesirable side effects on the vulnerable global economy.
Andrew Yang says voters are disenchanted about President Joe Biden battling Donald Trump in an election day rematch ... which is why he wants to see the other Democrat candidates get some shine. The former presidential candidate was on "TMZ Live"
Hunter Biden has just been indicted on gun charges ... and his alleged drug use is a factor in the case. Federal prosecutors in Delaware indicted President Biden's son on three counts related to gun possession while using narcotics ... according to
Kim Jong Un invited the Russian president to North Korea after pledging his "full support" for Moscow during talks between the two leaders. The US warned this could mean weapons for Russia's war in Ukraine.
The war in Ukraine has entangled both politics and religion. In Berlin, it shaped the large peace rally organized by the Catholic community of Sant'Egidio, which brought together representatives from dozens of faiths.
Ukrainian drones were downed over the border regions of Bryansk and Belgorod, and over Crimea, Russian media reported. Meanwhile, Ukraine said it shot down 17 drones from three directions. DW has rounded up the latest.
This week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is celebrating the one-year anniversary of the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities funding opportunity's initial project selection. Joining producers, project leaders, and project partners, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack visited a farm in Wisconsin, where he commemorated the progress made thus far in standing up these initial projects. He highlighted how projects from this effort will raise awareness and implementation at scale of climate-smart production practices, activities, and systems on working lands and with a diverse range of farmers, ranchers, and private landowners, and emphasized how this effort will promote rural prosperity and support the fight against climate change.

"Over the past year, our Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities partners have started to hit the ground running, working to enroll farmers and landowners and stand up their projects that hold tremendous promise for both the future of American agriculture and our environment," Vilsack said. "These wide-ranging, innovative, and forward-looking efforts will not only jumpstart the creation of new markets for climate-smart commodities, but also help producers and forest landowners of all sizes implement climate-smart practices on their lands and pilot innovative and cost-effective methods of quantifying the climate benefits of those practices. I'm excited to see the work that's been done so far and look forward to seeing these projects continue to progress - as well as their benefits - over the coming months and years."

USDA is investing more than $3.1 billion for 141 projects through the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities effort, which seeks to build and expand market opportunities for American commodities produced using climate-smart practices through pilot projects, positioning American producers as global leaders in climate-smart agricultural production.

The selected projects - spanning up to five years - will:

Provide technical and financial assistance to producers to implement climate-smart production practices on a voluntary basis on working lands.

Pilot innovative and cost-effective methods for quantification, monitoring, reporting and verification (MMRV) of greenhouse gas benefits.

Develop markets and promote the resulting climate-smart commodities.

All selected projects require meaningful involvement of small and underserved producers. The funding opportunity has earned strong support from a diverse set of stakeholders.

This effort builds on ongoing Biden-Harris Administration initiatives to increase the competitive advantage of U.S. agriculture both domestically and internationally, build wealth that stays in rural communities, and support a diverse range of producers and operation types. This effort also helps to advance the Biden-Harris Administration's strategy to advance greenhouse gas emissions measurement and monitoring for the agriculture and forest sectors.

Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities includes a robust data and learning strategy that includes requirements for grantees to submit the following information as part of their quarterly reporting:

Progress reports and updates on farm, tract, and field data including, but not limited to, producers enrolled, acres, crops, and livestock covered, climate-smart practices implemented and related incentives;

Updates on project summary data including geographic data, partner activities, and marketing activities as well as financial and budget information;

MMRV methods, modeled and measured GHG benefits, and environmental co-benefits including, as applicable water, air, and habitat related benefits.

Other periodic updates on supplemental data, including information related to the MMRV plan and direct field measurement results will also be required. All Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities projects will be required to participate in a Partnerships Network, which will bring partners together virtually or in-person on a regular basis to share learnings. USDA will summarize and publish important information from these gatherings, as well as consolidated data from required project reporting.

First-Year Successes

After careful negotiation with partners, USDA has finalized agreements for over 60 large pilot projects with grants ranging from $5 million to $90 million. Many of these projects have already started enrolling producers. Based on the ambitious targets USDA has set with these projects, USDA expects over 1,500 producers to be enrolled by next month encompassing over 1 million acres and over 50,000 head of cattle. USDA also expects to see those numbers more than double by 2024 and continue to grow from there. For example, in Wisconsin, The Delong Company, Inc., has already enrolled over 100 producers, and more broadly in the Midwest, Iowa Soybean Association has already enrolled over 200 producers.

Additionally, USDA has been working to finalize agreements with another 71 smaller pilot projects that have an even greater emphasis on small and underserved producers and minority-serving institutions. More than 25 of those grants already have been finalized. These grants include support to fund efforts of groups like the National Black Growers Council, Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska and the InterTribal Buffalo Council, the University of Texas Rio Grande, Florida A&M University and Prairie View A&M University.

Further information on active Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities projects and finalized grant agreements are being posted on the website on a rolling basis. They can be accessed on the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Project Summaries page.

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America's food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
Kim Jong Un has invited the Russian president to North Korea after pledging his "full support" for Moscow's war in Ukraine. The US has warned this could mean missiles and ammunition.
Tim Gurner says "we need to see pain in the economy" to remind people they are lucky to have jobs.
North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un is in Russia this week, where he has toured military facilities and vowed to support the Kremlin's "sacred war" against its neighbour Ukraine.
The US space agency's independent panel said it found no evidence of extraterrestrial origins in its study of unidentified anomalous phenomena. NASA is seeking to shift current UAP perceptions in order to improve study.
A five-year probe into the US president's son looked set to end. Now Hunter Biden has been indicted.
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on Wednesday called out the White House for delivering instructions to the media on how to cover the impeachment inquiry against President BIden.
NPR's Ailsa Chang speaks with Penny Pritzker, who has been tapped by President Biden to serve as his special representative for..

NPR 20 Sep 2023
NPR's Mary Louise Kelly talks with Dr. Huda Akram, who is based in Benghazi, about the devastating storm that collapsed two dams and killed at least 5,000 people in Libya.
Kozhikode: An ongoing study by the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune found the footprint of Nipah virus in bats in 10 of the 16 states and Union Territories surveyed in India.



The study found Nipah viral antibodies in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya and Puducherry.

Yet, only Kerala is seeing repeated Nipah viral infection among humans, almost annually. The 2018 outbreak killed 17 of the 18 persons who were confirmed to have been infected by the viral disease in Kozhikode. In 2019, one case was reported in Ernakulam. In 2021, a 12-year-old boy died of encephalitis, a symptom of Nipah viral infection, in Kozhikode. This year, two persons succumbed to the viral infection, and five others are battling for their lives.

Dr Pragya D Yadav, Group Leader of the Maximum Containment Laboratory at NIV who heads the survey, said there are two reasons for the repeated human infection in Kerala.

"Not just Kerala, in states along the Western Ghats, human habitations are either close to the forest or within the forests," she told Onmanorama.com, implying that proximity to forest areas could increase human exposure to infected bats and other host animals. In the North, forested areas are far from human habitations, she said.

But that is not the only reason. Kerala could be reporting Nipah virus infections because of better surveillance, said Dr Yadav, a senior scientist at the national lab run by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

Without adequate surveillance, human infections can go unreported. "We don't know if it is causing infection in other states. A certain level of monitoring and surveillance is required to pick up every case," she said, and added: "Hospital-based surveillance should be increased in other states as well".

Representational image.

Prof Rajendra Pilankatta, an expert in the core committee of the Institute of Advanced Virology, Thiruvananthapuram, went one step ahead and called for a retrospective review of all fever deaths in similar zones along the Western Ghats. "Fever is a symptom, not the cause. Analysis of these unexplained fever deaths can be the start for better surveillance," said Pilankatta, professor at the Central University of Kerala's Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

The other states where the survey was done but did not find antibodies in bats were Telangana, Gujarat, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh.

Kerala strain is different from Bangladesh, but no comparative study done

Dr Yadav said the Nipah virus strain found in Kerala was different from the genotypes found in Bangladesh (B) and Malaysia (M), the two major strains with common descent. She called the one found in Kerala the 'I' genotype.

When the first Nipah outbreak happened in India in Siliguri district in 2001 and then in Nadia district in 2007, the strains were more like the Bangladesh strain, she said.

"But the sequence we received from bats and humans in Kerala has some difference," she said. The dissimilarities ranged between 14.86 percentage points for the Malaysia genotype and 3.85 percentage points for the Bangladesh genotype, said her study published in 'Emerging Infectious Diseases' journal. Though the dissimilarities with the Bangladesh strain are less, the Kerala Nipah virus strain forms a separate cluster, it said.

In the same journal, researchers from Australia published their findings on why the Bangladesh strain was more lethal than the strain found in Malaysia.

Nipah virus spreads from person to person in Bangladesh but not in Malaysia, according to the study led by Glenn Marsh, Principal Research Scientist in the Dangerous Pathogens Team at the Australian government's Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).

Representational image/ file photo

When they infected ferrets, they found higher concentrations of the Bangladesh strain in secretions from the mouth. "Increased oral excretion of the Bangladesh strain in humans might explain why person-to-person transmission of Nipah virus occurs in that region," the study said.

No such comparative study has been done with the Indian genotype, said Dr Yadav."We don't have the virus 'isolate' from Bangladesh or Malaysia. So we cannot compare," she said. (An isolate is the virus isolated from an infected host and propagated in culture.)

Without the comparative study, scientists cannot tell if there is any significant difference in symptoms and pathogenicity, that is the ability of an organism to harm its host or cause disease. "We need to know the differences and how the differences impact therapeutic goods," she said.

Dr Yadav said such pieces of information were needed for making vaccines and monoclonal antibodies, which are made-in-lab proteins meant to stimulate the immune system.
CHEYENNE, Wyo.  U.S. Gold Corp. reported completion of a hyperspectral study of its Keystone exploration project on the Cortez Trend in Nevada that yielded to multiple high priority targets beyond those already identified.

The company stated that a drilling exploration program within the permitted plan of operations is pending and follows up on 2019 drilling results.

While weve concentrated our focus and resources towards securing permits and developing our CK Gold Project in Wyoming, we remain mindful of the tremendous opportunity that we hold in our exploration portfolio, said Kevin Frances, vice president of exploration and technical services for U.S. Gold.

The CK Gold Project is west of Cheyenne, where U.S. Gold hopes to develop a gold and copper mine.

With the CK project approaching a permit approval decision early next year, we have time to turn some of our attention toward exploration, particularly in Nevada, Francis said.

Conducting remote hyperspectral studies has not only confirmed our views about the opportunities at existing target areas but serves to add targets that would otherwise be difficult to seek out on our extensive 20-square-mile land package, he said in the announcement.

Exploration Mapping Group Inc. completed a WorldView-3 satellite data remote sensing project for U.S. Gold centered over Keystone, and the component color alteration images were combined into various groups to facilitate interpretation of hotspots, according to U.S. Gold, which formerly had its office in Elko but relocated to Cheyenne.

The company is now looking at drilling up to 22 holes within five high-potential target areas at Keystone, especially within the Sophia target area, the company reported. Two of the drill holes are planned at Greenstone Gulch, which has seen no previous drilling.

Keystone is roughly 11 miles south of the Cortez mining complex operated by Nevada Gold Mines.
Providing much convenience for travellers, flyers booking tickets on Air India to Europe can also travel on trains and buses to over 100 cities in the region with the same ticket. This arrangement would help travellers avoid the hassles of purchasing train tickets after arriving on flights in Europe.



The facility is being implemented based on an intermodal agreement signed by Air India with its International Air Transport Association travel partner AccesRail. Under the deal, Air India passengers can visit several cities in various European countries with a single ticket.

Moreover, the baggage allowance for the flight journey would be applicable to the train as well as bus trips.



Air passengers arriving in Air Indias European gateways such as Amsterdam, Birmingham, London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Milan and Vienna can travel seamlessly to destinations such as Austria, Belgium, Germany, Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy and the United Kingdom, said an Air India official.



The intermodal facility will cover rail and bus services such as Avanti West Coast (UK), National Express (UK), Trenitalia (Italy), OBB Austrian Railway (Austria), SNCB Belgian Railway and Thalys (The Netherlands / Belgium).



Tickets for intermodal travel would be available only from international travel agents initially. However, Air India has plans to provide the booking facility in its own sales channels soon, said the official.



Incidentally, Vistara Airlines, a joint enterprise of Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines, had implemented the booking facility for train tickets along with flight tickets early this year. Vistara had entered into an agreement with Europes biggest railway operator Deutsche Bahn and World Ticket to enable its passengers to travel on trains to major cities in Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium and Switzerland.


We've just learned that the office of the prosecutor and the "security service" of Ukraine have published press releases claiming to have put a stop to the activities of the "vicious Russian propagandist Yurii Sheliazhenko."

This is, of course, very strange because Yurii, a Board Member of World BEYOND War, has -- like World BEYOND War -- denounced and opposed Russian warmaking from Day 1.

Yurii Sheliazhenko has been formally charged by the Ukrainian government with the crime of justifying Russian aggression. The evidence is this statement which explicitly condemns Russian aggression.

Next week, Yurii will face prosecution in Kyiv, and members of World BEYOND War will be there to deliver a petition -- please sign it now! -- asking that the prosecution be dropped. If you can get to Kyiv next week and support Yurii, please contact us.

This week, spokesperson for the Ukrainian military's "Territorial Defense Forces" Sarah Ashton-Cirillo published a video that included the following words (but you really have to watch it to experience the psychotic, beyond-parody presentation):

"Next week the teeth of the Russian devils will gnash ever harder, and their rabid mouths will foam an uncontrollable frenzy as the world will see a favorite Kremlin propagandist pay for their crimes. And this puppet of Putin is only the first. Russia's war criminal propagandists will all be hunted down and justice will be served."

We have no way of knowing whether the "favorite Kremlin propagandist" is a humble peace activist who has never had anything to do with the Kremlin, and has condemned Russian warmaking over and over again as immoral, criminal, and reprehensible.

But the U.S. public recently lived through years of being told that a U.S. president who was extremely hostile to Russia was Russia's servant. Donald Trump sold weapons to Ukraine, blocked Russian energy deals, forced NATO members to buy more weapons, continued the militarization of the border of Russia, sanctioned and expelled Russian officials, rejected numerous Russian overtures on space weapons, cyber wars, etc., bombed Russian troops in Syria, and generally escalated the new cold war. And rather than seeking to protect the planet, what did the "opposition" in the United States Congress do? They pretended that Trump was serving Russian interests because he'd been urinated on. So don't tell me that blaming a pacifist for a military invasion is too crazy for a government run by a sitcom star and employing the young woman in the video above.

In addition, those of us who oppose both sides of wars are well aware that each side finds such a position incomprehensible and therefore the equivalent of supporting the other side. World BEYOND War receives masses of accusations of supporting each side of this war, even though we've created a huge online resource to explain why and how to oppose all sides of all wars.

Yurii Sheliazhenko is, in my experience, a man of the highest character. He has for years volunteered as an active board member of an organization of which I am executive director, World BEYOND War. In many collaborations and events with global participants, Yurii has always been wise, principled, honest, reliable, cheerful, humble, and fearless. Ukraine could hardly ask for a better representative.

Yurii, of course, takes a principled stand against warmaking, believing -- as I do -- that there are choices other than, and superior to, those of waging war or lying down and surrendering to someone else waging war. Yurii not only believes this but works diligently at explaining it to others. This may make him a poor member of a military, but it makes him an excellent member of a democracy -- that thing that militaries are always claiming to be fighting for.

Self-governance is not possible without people who are willing to nonviolently and cooperatively stand by their beliefs and work to persuade or be persuaded by others through dialogue rather than violence. Particularly necessary are people who, when they believe their government to be in the wrong, work to improve it rather than turn against it -- people to whom the idea would never even occur of backing some other government against their own. This is the sort of person the world is fortunate to have in Yurii Sheliazhenko.
The United States is the longest-running democracy and a cradle for innovation. Its higher education institutions are among the best in the world. It is the only country that landed humans on the moon, developed radio, television and computers.

However, the United States is a mess with horrible train service, gridlock in Congress, immigrants crossing the border in droves, plastic pollution, massive student debt, out-of-control wildfires and a shortage of fresh water. As a nation we have made many drastic mistakes. I will highlight the Dozen Dumbest mistakes that we have made.

Electoral College

The electoral college has produced two minority presidents in the past twenty years, George W. Bush in 2000 and Donald Trump in 2016. These two minority presidents have appointed the majority of the Supreme Court, which has issued decisions supporting minority positions on voters' rights, abortion, gun control, consumer's rights and many others.

The electoral college is undemocratic. It can be replaced without amending the constitution. Several states and the District of Columbia have joined the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. Those jurisdictions joining the compact agree to pledge their electors to the winner of the national popular vote. The compact will not go into effect until the number of states agreeing to the compact form a majority (at least 270) of all electors. The compact is based on the current rule in Article II, Section 1, Clause 2 of the Constitution, which gives each state legislature the power to determine how it chooses its electors. Sixteen states and the District of Columbia have joined the compact; collectively, these jurisdictions control 196 electoral votes, which is 73% of the 270 required for the compact to take effect

Lack of Good Train Service and Dangerous Grade-level Crossings

In 2022, according to Statista, we had 10,035 railroad accidents, 6,364 injuries and 950 fatalities involving railroads. According to the Federal Railroad Administration, 2,197 highway-rail grade crossing collisions occurred in 2022. There were 274 crossing fatalities and 812 crossing injuries in that year. We have the slowest trains in the advanced world. Recently, we have had serious and dangerous train derailments polluting East Palestine, Ohio, and many other communities because trains and tracks have not been maintained properly. We need to upgrade our rail system with high-speed trains, bridges and tunnels.

Above-Ground Wires

In 2020, a team of researchers studied the impact of California's 2018 wildfire season and estimated that its economic damage totaled $148.5 billion.

For sixty to one hundred billion dollars, less than the cost of repairing the damage caused by one year's fires, California can afford to bury all of its high-voltage power lines. High-voltage power lines are the cause of most of California's forest fires. Because high-voltage power lines are usually not insulated, when dry brush is touched by uninsulated wires, massive fires erupt and spread easily. The recent wildfires in Hawaii are another example of how much damage above-ground power lines cause. Putting wires underground will save billions of dollars and hundreds of lives.

Life Tenure for Federal Judges

The Constitution provides that federal judges have life tenure for judicial independence. When the Constitution was drafted 240 years ago, life expectancy was 36 years of age. I personally argued a case before an 85-year-old federal judge who could not remember a ruling he made five minutes earlier.

There are superior paths to judicial independence. Germany and France use fixed terms of office for their high courts. Countries like Australia, Canada and Israel have mandatory retirement ages. These changes would require a constitutional amendment but would greatly improve our judicial system.

Lack of Gun Control

In 1994, Congress passed the Public Safety and Recreational Firearms Use Protection Act, a federal assault weapons ban that prohibited the manufacturing of more than 100 firearms for civilian use, including the AR-15. That ban lapsed in 2004, as Congress failed to secure sufficient votes to renew it. According to Center for Disease Control data, 48,117 people died from guns in 2022, an average of one person every 11 minutes. We are the only advanced country that has so many gun fatalities. Banning assault weapons, strengthening background checks and passing red flag laws will help reduce our astonishingly high fatality rate from guns. A friend of mine who lives in Europe will not allow her son to visit the United States because of the fear of gun violence. We are a pariah nation concerning gun control.

Lack of Plastic Regulations

We are choking ourselves with plastic trash from disposable bags, straws, cups, cigarette filters and bottles. Every species on the planet now has plastic microparticles in its blood stream. Plastic is also killing bees. Albert Einstein said that if we kill off all bees humans will have four years to live.

No National Health Insurance Program

The United States is the only advanced nation not to have a national heath insurance program. Because of this, U.S. manufacturing companies are put at a disadvantage. Every car built in the U.S. includes $1,500 for health insurance thus making our auto industry uncompetitive.

Lack of Desalination Plants

With rising sea levels and diminishing freshwater lakes, we have a serious water crisis. A viable solution is to build thousands of desalinization plants to be used for drinking, bathing and agriculture. This will help end the drought epidemic in the United States and in other nations, while counteracting rising sea levels globally.

No College Loan-Reduction Program

Student loan debt in the United States now totals $1.5 trillion, and it keeps rising. This puts a yoke around the necks of recent college graduates and hurts the economy. My proposal allows those with student loan debt to reduce their loans by volunteering for public service, in the Peace Corps, AmeriCorp, the military, as a teacher or a doctor in underserved communities. In other words, a reduction in student loan debt should be earned, not given away.

10. Lack of Separate Bicycle Paths

Next Page 1 | 2

(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).
Armenia continues to be under attack by Azerbaijan over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region that has simmered between Armenia and Azerbaijan for 30 years. Russian peacekeeping troops try to maintain calm, but recent comments concerning Armenia and NATO have put nerves on edge.

Since its independence, Armenia has maintained a policy of friendly relations with Iran, Russia, and the West, including the United States and the European Union. Armenia-NATO partnership relations date back to 1992 when Armenia joined the North Atlantic Cooperation Council, later renamed the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council.

In an effort to understand the volatile situation, Steven Sahiounie of MidEastDiscourse interviewed Abraham Gaspayan, founder and director of "Genesis Armenia", a Think-Tank.

#1. Steven Sahiounie (SS): On September 4, Gunther Fehlinger, the European Committee for NATO Enlargement Chair (a NGO not part of NATO), tweeted on X his advocacy of Armenia joining NATO. In response, Armenian Deputy Foreign Minister Vahan Kostanyan said that Armenia had already been collaborating with NATO and would continue.

In your view, is Armenia looking to join NATO?

Abraham Gaspayan (AG): Absolutely not. The issue of Armenia's membership in NATO has never occupied a primary place in the RA's military and political agenda. I do not think that Gunther Fehlinger is a NATO official of that caliber, whose urging or emotional statements can bring about a serious change. Armenia and NATO have been closely cooperating since the end of the Cold War and Armenia's independence. In 1992, just one year after gaining independence, Armenia joined the North Atlantic Cooperation Council, later renamed the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council (Armenia has been a member of EAPC since 1997). Armenia's cooperation with NATO has gradually expanded since it joined the Partnership for Peace in 1994. Armenia operates in a different security environment and is one of the founders of the CSTO military-political treaty, led by Russia. NATO has an Information Office in Yerevan and has decades of experience working with Armenia. Armenia's partnership cooperation with NATO aims to facilitate ongoing reforms in defense and security sectors within the framework of IPAP, as well as strengthen interoperability capabilities with Armenia's partners. One of the key objectives of Armenia-NATO cooperation in these sectors is to strengthen and enhance democratic control and civilian oversight of the Armed Forces of Armenia. Since 2002, Armenia has been participating in the PfP Planning and Review Process (PARP). In 2004, Armenian peacekeeping forces joined the NATO-led peace operation in Kosovo, and in 2010, they began contributing to the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Mission in Afghanistan, which was completed in December 2014. In January 2015, Armenia started contributing to the new Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan. In August-September 2021, due to the end of NATO's "Resolute Support" mission in Afghanistan, the RA peacekeeping contingent returned to Armenia. In peace-building processes worldwide, from Afghanistan to the Balkans, Armenian soldiers and officers have distinguished themselves with the highest qualities and merits in combat, organization, and command. It is axiomatic that the transition from one military-political system to another poses serious security threats. Russia and Iran in this region cannot calmly accept that fact, although the issue of NATO membership falls within the domain of Armenia's sovereign decision.

#2. SS: On September 6, Armenia announced plans to hold military exercises with the US in what is dubbed 'Eagle Partner 2023' scheduled from September 11 to September 20.

In your opinion, is Armenia moving away from their close alliance with Russia, and moving towards the western sphere of influence?

AG: The Pentagon decides, based on its needs, with which country to conduct such exercises and involving which types of units (including state national guards), planning them in advance. Therefore, similar bilateral or multilateral military exercises are regularly conducted at the initiative of the US. I would like to note separately that they have adapted and continue to take place regularly in Georgia, Kazakhstan (also with the participation of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan), Albania, and dozens of other European, Asian, Arab, and African countries. The exercises pertain to cooperation in peacekeeping missions carried out under the auspices of the United Nations or NATO. Therefore, military exercises cannot and do not aim to elevate Armenian-American relations to a new level. With this in mind, Armenia does not become a partner of strategic significance for the USA or, even more so, an allied state.

#3. SS: The Lachin corridor is a vital link between Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh, a region that witnessed a conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan, leading to a ceasefire brokered by Russia in 2020. Since then, Russia assigned a 2,000-strong peacekeeping force to oversee the corridor. In recent months, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has become critical of the Russian peacekeeping presence, and used undiplomatic language to allege they have failed their mission.

In your view, is the allegation made by Pashinyan justified?

AG: Pashinyan's statements should be considered in the context of the anti-Russian course adopted by his government, which, however, does not mean that he is accepted with open arms in the West. Pashinyan has become equally unpopular with both Russia and the West due to his unbalanced foreign policy narrative and actions. Maybe it seems to him that if he cursed or spoke in improper diplomatic terms about Russia or Iran, he would be welcomed in the USA or Europe with open arms. In 5 years, he destroyed the entire map of RA diplomacy, allies, and friends, and with his short-sighted and uncalculated steps, he dragged Armenia and Artsakh into war. Clause 6 of the November 9, 2020 ceasefire agreement defines the responsibilities of each side regarding the Berdzor or Lachin Corridor. Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan share equal responsibility there. Russia is deeply involved in Ukraine and is unable to fully fulfill its obligations, which is extremely worrying and problematic. However, we should not forget that the government of Armenia, with Azerbaijan and the urging and patronage of the West, entered into a separate agreement in Prague in October 2022 and announced that it recognizes Artsakh as part of Azerbaijan. This is a manifestation of Pashinyan's failed policy, the goal of which is to remove Russia from this region without receiving clear security guarantees from NATO or the West.

#4. SS: Russia maintains a permanent military base in Armenia, part of the Moscow-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO); however, early this year, Armenia declined to host military exercises conducted by the CSTO. Pashinyan also said that reliance on Russia as Armenia's security guarantor had been a "strategic mistake".

In your opinion, is this a case of Pashinyan voicing personal views, or do the Armenian legislators and voters feel the same way?

AG: Armenia was a country that exported security until 2018. In response to Azerbaijan's continuous aggressions and wars, the armed forces of Armenia and Artsakh not only responded adequately but also compelled Azerbaijan to exercise restraint at the diplomatic table, rather than speaking from a position of power, and to keep the conflict settlement within the framework of the only internationally mandated structure, the OSCE Minsk Group. After the four-day war in 2016, Ilham Aliyev himself acknowledged that the international community was pressuring him to recognize the independence of Artsakh or the right of Armenians to self-determination. This was the institutional memory of Armenian statehood that Pashinyan inherited in 2018, and he wasted it on short-sighted moves and empty promises from the West, resulting in strained relations with Iran and Russia. Pashinyan's team has always been distinguished by its anti-Russian attitude. The people of Armenia have never harbored enmity towards anyone or their neighbors unless any of them have shown aggression. About 3 million Armenians live in Russia, who also have significant investments in Armenia's economy. This naturally also brings with it a calculated approach to the safety factor. The Russian military base will remain in Armenia until 2045. This is an interstate treaty. Pashinyan and his junta want to push Russia out of the region, which will negatively affect the factor of peace and stability in the region and will upset the strategic balance in favor of NATO member Turkey. Turkey has been illegally closing the border with Armenia for 30 years, is directly involved in Armenia and the Armenian people, denies the fact of the Armenian Genocide, threatens the security of Armenia and the Armenian people, and considers the 10-month-long fascist blockade and closed borders against 120,000 Armenians living in Artsakh as legal. Under such conditions, attacking the Russian peacekeeping mission contributes to the success of Turkey's political agenda.

#5. SS: The apparent change of position by Armenia in their relationship with Russia may be part of the US-NATO campaign to demonize Russia because of the Ukraine conflict, which is a US-NATO conflict with Russia, fought on Ukrainian, and increasingly Russian soil.

Next Page 1 | 2

(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).


The Shirley community protests in front of a CWC location

(Image by anonymous) Details DMCA



Since 2016, I have been covering stories of LAUSD parents who have been fighting to protect the resources at their children's public schools from the encroachment of charter schools. These publicly funded private schools have demanded space on LAUSD facilities using Proposition 39 without concern for the students already enrolled on these campuses. Like parasites, co-locating charters have depleted the space available leaving the "host school" weakened and disadvantaged in the competition for students in an era of declining enrollment.

Individual schools have been left to fend for themselves because the School Board that is supposed to represent LAUSD students has been dominated by members loyal to the charter school industry. The millions of dollars charter schools have spent on School Board elections have ensured that the needs of LAUSD public school students have been neglected. As a result, these students are less safe, have had space for music and art programs taken away from them, and have had to receive IEP services in broom closets.

With the election of Dr. Rocio Rivas last year, board members representing the interests of public education achieved the first clear majority in decades. In the biggest move yet to protect their constituents, this new majority has introduced a new resolution to finally address this crisis. Authored by Rivas and Board President Jackie Goldberg, the "Creating a Charter Schools Co-Location Policy to Mitigate Impacts Caused by Proposition 39" would:

Enumerate clear guidelines that allow the District to focus on supporting its most fragile students and schools, key programs, and student safety by avoiding Proposition 39 co-locations that:

Are on school sites with the District's 100 Priority Schools, BSAP schools, and Community Schools.



Compromise District schools' capacity to serve neighborhood children.



Result in grade span arrangements that negatively impact student safety and build charter school pipelines that actively deter students from attending District schools.

Guide District decisions related to both all new school co-location requests and to situations where existing co-locations change, including cases where the amount of available space changes or there is a material revision to the charter of the co-locating school.

Require staff to visit the District school site before recommending a co-location.

Ensure more frequent verification of charter schools' average daily attendance.

Require a Board vote to approve all Alternate Agreements.

Improve monitoring, enforcement, and reporting of charter schools' payment of facilities costs and overallocated space reimbursements.

Require that the District's annual preliminary co-location proposals, final offers, and Alternative Agreements all be accompanied by a report to the Board on how the Policy was adhered to in the process.

The Board was scheduled to consider this resolution at its August 22, 2023, meeting. Prior to its consideration, I delivered the following comments:

On this afternoon's agenda is a resolution to finally address the many problems faced by the implementation of PROP-39. While this proposal represents an important first step, I hope that the following will be addressed in the final policy:



1) Currently rooms used to provide Special Education services, music classes, and parent centers are considered to be "empty" when determining the space a public School must give up to the charter school. This prevents families from getting the services that they deserve.



2) The District has a policy of providing charter schools that are co-locating with brand-new furniture and computers. Where is this mandated by the proposition? It seems to go against the wording in the proposition that says a district cannot be made to create space that it does not have to fulfill the requirements of the law.



3) District bond funds are used to prepare rooms that are being given to charter schools. PROP-39 was simply supposed to ensure that public space was shared. Why isn't the space provided "as is"?



4) The North Valley Military Institute's (NVMI) co-location on the Sun Valley/VOCES campus highlighted the safety issues that are caused by co-locations. NVMI had an administrator who was accused of sexual offenses against a student, but it appears that the host school was never informed. Another staff member who left due to the same incident later returned to the school's payroll without any warning to the host school. Public school principals need to be given the information needed to protect the students under their care.



5) Charter schools currently owe $3,708,006 in overdue over-allocation fees. Why has the District not insisted on immediate payment? Why are schools with debt allowed to operate and continue to take space on public school campuses?



6) The above amount does not include the $7,678,022 that was suddenly wiped off of the balance sheet in April of last year without any explanation to the public. The OIG should be directed to investigate this write-off to determine if it was legal and proper.

Without explanation, the consideration of the resolution was delayed and will now appear on the agenda of the Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled to be held on September 19, 2023. The format of these Meetings will provide an opportunity for a more in-depth conversation. It will also allow affected students, parents, and teachers from host schools to comment. You can provide your opinion to your representative using the following contact information:

Board District 1: (213) 241-6382 George.McKenna@lausd.net

Board District 2: (213) 241-6020 Rocio.Rivas@lausd.net

Board District 3: (213)241-8333 Scott.Schmerelson@lausd.net

Board District 4: (213) 241-6387 Nick.Melvoin@lausd.net

Board District 5: (213) 241-5555 Jackie.Goldberg@lausd.net

Board District 6: (213) 241-6388 Kelly.Gonez@lausd.net

Board District 7: (213) 241-6385 Tanya.Franklin@lausd.net

____________________________

Carl Petersen is a parent advocate for public education, particularly for students with special education needs, who serves as the Education Chair for the Northridge East Neighborhood Council. As a Green Party candidate in LAUSD's District 2 School Board race, he was endorsed by Network for Public Education (NPE) Action. Dr. Diane Ravitch has called him "a valiant fighter for public schools in Los Angeles." For links to his blogs, please visit www.ChangeTheLAUSD.com. Opinions are his own.
Walt Pelett, the colorful proprietor of the sprawling City Liquidators in Portlands Central Eastside, died Tuesday. He was 90.

Pelett opened City Liquidators in a warehouse near the Morrison Bridge off-ramp on Southeast Third Avenue in 1977. A fixture in the Central Eastside industrial area, the stores no-frills warehouse fits its surroundings. The inventory inside is nothing if not eclectic: lawn decorations, office chairs, prints of artworks, kitchen knick knacks and all types of furniture.

Through his advertisements for the business and interviews over the years, Pelett cultivated a persona as an eccentric wheeler and dealer.

In a 1988 profile in The Oregonian, family, employees and friends described him as a genius who called himself No-Fault Walt. Meanwhile, customers grew to know him for his hospitable eccentricity and his cheerful cornball ads.

He was not your average, boring businessman, said Nadine Zook, Peletts secretary. He had a personality and he was funny and tenacious. He was just good to people.

Walter Pelett grew up the youngest of five children, living in small towns all over Canada while his father managed railroad restaurants. His family moved to Oregon when he was 10. He dropped out of school in 10th grade in Brookings and came to Portland to work as a restaurant dishwasher.

By age 21, Pelett worked two jobs to begin a 20-year career in the wholesale plumbing business, which ended when fire destroyed his store in 1972.

He opened City Liquidators five years later, telling The Oregonian in a 1988 interview that hed started the business just for fun.

By 1981, the store increased in size and took up a building across the street.

The empire grew from there, reaching seven buildings and more than 390,000 square feet by 2015. (The family has since sold several.)

He was very well-known throughout the Portland business community for being very wise, said Bridgid Blackburn, co-owner of Cargo Inc. in the Central Eastside. He was always looking for the best deal to keep his inventory as changing and unusual as possible.

Blackburn added that from huge collections of pianos to outdoor rafts to even taxidermy, Pelett was not afraid to buy big.

We always shared a sort of mutual admiration for each others work, she said. Over the years, I think he did a really good job of sharing the lore of Portlands history, by preserving bits from those places that closed and were not around anymore.

Peletts first wife, Barbara, died in 1963 at age 31 of Hodgkins disease. Their three children  Wally, Kimberly and Nancy  were under 10 when their mother passed.

In 1979, Pelett met Pamela Smith, who went to work for him stocking shelves and eventually became his second wife. They had three children, Zachary Pelett, Emma Evans and Ellie Pelett.

The whole family gained a measure of fame locally appearing in television advertisements for City Liquidators.

Evans, Walts daughter and the founder of the Portland night market, described her father as a quick-witted businessman with a love for bargain hunting. As a child, Evans traveled the world with her family, she recalled, visiting local markets in destinations like France, England and Italy.

My parents always believed that marketplaces were how you got to feel the flavor of the city, she said. My dad always took us there to negotiate, and it was such a fun thing. I think that really inspired me to just fall in love with marketplaces.

While Pelett made a sizable mark on the Central Eastside business district with City Liquidators, Evans said she will also remember his patience and gentle mentorship.

He always took the time to really teach you how to do something and why it mattered, she said. Hes left really big shoes.

Pelett is survived by his children, Kimberly, Nancy, Zachary, Emma and Ellie, and his wife Pam. His oldest son, Wally, died in 1994 at age 41.

--Kristine de Leon; kdeleon@oregonian.com
Multnomah County Sheriffs deputies arrested a 44-year-old Portland man suspected of breaking into Portland Fire & Rescues boathouse in Southeast Portland early Thursday, stealing a rescue boat and speeding the vessel to Kalama, Washington, about 43 miles northwest of where the boat went missing, officials said.

Dustin Jay Knutson was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on allegations of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, second-degree criminal trespass and first-degree criminal mischief, said sheriffs office spokesperson Deputy John Plock.
A 49-year-old Portland man entered not guilty pleas Thursday to a 17-count indictment charging him with multiple counts of rape, attempted rape, kidnapping and strangulation in alleged attacks on three women starting in January.

Konstantin Y. Svidenko is accused of luring the women to his Northeast Portland apartment off Northeast 122nd Avenue near Multnomah Street with the promise of blues, shorthand for fentanyl pills, then barricading them in his unit and attacking them. Svidenko wasnt arrested until early Sept. 5, a day after a fourth woman alleged he was threatening her.

A Russian interpreter assisted Svidenko throughout the brief hearing before Multnomah County Circuit Judge Eric L. Dahlin. Since Svidenkos arrest, his initial court-appointed lawyer asked to be removed from the case and another was appointed. Svidenko asked the defense lawyer representing him at his arraignment on the indictment to contact a lawyer that his family is interested in retaining.

One woman identified Svidenko in January and said he had sexually assaulted her at his apartment after choking her, according to a probable cause affidavit. Two more women reported to police that he had tried to strangle and sexually assault them at his apartment in March and April, according to the affidavit.

The women were each able to lead police to the apartment where they said the attacks occurred, the affidavit said.

The indictment charges Svidenko with first-degree rape, first-degree sexual abuse, strangulation and two counts of first-degree kidnapping in connection with the Jan. 22 case.

It charges him with attempted first-degree rape, attempted first-degree sexual abuse, strangulation, fourth-degree assault and four counts of first-degree kidnapping in the March 17 case.

It charges him with attempted first-degree rape, attempted first-degree sexual abuse, attempted first-degree rape and two counts of first-degree kidnapping in the April 29 case.

Svidenko remains in custody without bail at the Multnomah County Detention Center.

-- Maxine Bernstein

Email mbernstein@oregonian.com; 503-221-8212

Follow on Twitter @maxoregonian

Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe
Multnomah County commissioners have a whopping $63 million in unanticipated homelessness funding to spend in the coming year, and they met Thursday expecting to discuss the county chairs proposal for how best to do so.

But that plan was thrown off course by a huge surge of public testimony from people in recovery, addiction counselors and nonprofit workers begging for more treatment options, namely more detox beds, recovery housing and intensive out-patient care.
The director of the federal Bureau of Prisons was scolded Wednesday by members of the Senate Judiciary Committee who say her lack of transparency is hampering their ability to help fix the agency, which has long been plagued by staffing shortages, chronic violence and other problems.

Senators complained that Colette Peters appears to have reneged on promises she made when she took the job last year that shed be candid and open with lawmakers, and that the buck stops with her for turning the troubled agency around.

Sens. Tom Cotton, R-Ark. and Mike Lee, R-Utah, said Peters has forced them to wait more than a year for answers to written follow-up questions they sent her after she first appeared before the committee in September 2022, leaving them without information critical to fully understanding how the agency runs.

The clock is still ticking, Cotton and Lee said, trying to get Peters to commit to a firm deadline for responding. She declined, blaming the delay and uncertainty as to when answers would be ready on an ongoing Justice Department review process.

Peters also irked senators by claiming she couldnt answer even the most basic questions about agency operations  like how many correctional officers are on staff  and by referring to notes and talking points on a tablet computer in front of her.

Senators really take it personally when you dont answer their questions, Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., the committees chairman, told Peters as he wrapped up the two-hour session. More than almost any other thing that I would recommend Id make that a high priority.

The Bureau of Prisons, the Justice Departments largest law enforcement agency with more than 30,000 employees, 158,000 inmates and an annual budget of about $8 billion, has been under increasing scrutiny from Congress amid myriad crises, many of them exposed by AP reporting.

They include rampant sexual abuse of prisoners by staff and other staff criminal conduct, escapes, high-profile violence and inmate deaths, chronic understaffing that has hampered emergency responses.

Despite the transparency tussles, Durbin said committee Democrats and Republicans alike came away from Peters testimony largely in agreement that the Bureau of Prisons needs significantly more funding for staffing and infrastructure needs, including a $2 billion maintenance backlog.

Lets see if that translates into a bipartisan request for appropriations to match with that, Durbin said.

Peters, a reformer who previously ran Oregons state prison system, took charge of the federal Bureau of Prisons in August 2022. She replaced Michael Carvajal, a Trump administration holdover who clashed with Congress and upset staff with claims that dwindling staffing levels werent a concern.

Peters began Wednesdays testimony by highlighting steps shes taken to fix the agency, including overhauling problematic prisons, beefing up the internal affairs office that investigates employee misconduct and changing the agencys mission to emphasize principles of normalcy and humanity and core values that emphasize accountability, integrity, respect and compassion.

Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., who led a subcommittee investigation into the sexual abuse of female prisoners and spearheaded prison reform legislation, acknowledged Peters reputation as a reformer and commitment to change. But, he said: Youve now been in the post for about a year and Congress expects results.

And answers. Asked by Cotton how many correctional officers positions are filled amid a staffing crisis thats led to mandatory double shifts and cooks, teachers and nurses guarding inmates, Peters said: I dont have that number in front of me.

Cotton, citing statistics he obtained, told Peters the answer was 12,731, meaning at least 7,700 budgeted correctional officer positions are not filled. Thats more vacancies than when AP reported on the issue in 2021.

At another point, Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., became irritated when Peters failed to provide specifics about steps the agency is taking to thwart prisoners from using contraband phones to orchestrate drug deals.

No, no, no, no, no, Graham said, interrupting her.

And then there were the questions asked long ago that still havent been addressed.

Lee told Peters he submitted a short list of questions to her after he first testified before the committee, on Sept. 29, 2022, and has yet to get a response.

These are not difficult questions, Lee said.

Lee noted that witnesses testifying before the committee usually respond to written follow-ups within a week or so. He reminded Peters that, at that first hearing, shed acknowledged it was important to answer the committees questions in a timely fashion.

Lee suggested giving her until the end of the month to respond. Cotton offered an Oct. 13 deadline, but Peters said she wasnt sure she could meet that, either.

Im disappointed that those questions have not yet been answered, Peters said. We have been working on them diligently over the last year. It has been a lot of back and forth with the (Justice Department). I was hoping that they would be cleared this week, theyre not yet.

-- The Associated Press
ELKO  A Washington man was arrested Sept. 9 for allegedly assaulting an emergency medical responder during an ambulance ride from Wells to Elko.

The ambulance driver had to pull off Interstate 80 about 33 miles east of Elko in the early morning hours when Patrick B. Morrow, 62, of Vancouver attempted to choke the EMT with both hands, according to an arrest report.

The incident began when an Elko County Sheriffs deputy was called to a Wells hotel around 2:45 a.m. Saturday on a report of an intoxicated man who had fallen. Morrow was found on the ground with an injury to the back of his head, and he was assisted into the ambulance.

While en route to Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital he announced he was going to smoke and leave the ambulance, which was traveling at around 80 mph. When told he could not leave he allegedly attempted to choke the EMT.

While the deputy waited for backup to arrive, Morrow continued to attempt to leave. At one point he was Tasered but after falling he was able to pull out the wires. He stood up and began to walk westbound along I-80, where he fell in the median.

Two deputies were unable to lift him but he was finally placed into a patrol unit with further assistance.

Morrow was charged with attempted battery by strangulation on a protected person, and battery on an officer.
One of Oregons two Republican representatives in Congress supports an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden and sits on one of the committees investigating him, while the other is keeping her distance.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced Tuesday that he directed three House committees to open a formal impeachment inquiry into Biden and allegations that he benefited from his sons business dealings. Oregon Republican Rep. Cliff Bentz, who represents a heavily Republican district that covers most of eastern Oregon, serves on the Judiciary Committee, one of the three committees involved in the inquiry.

Bentz told the Capital Chronicle he doesnt yet know much about the inquiry and what his role will be, but that he expects it could take several months, based on his experience with the first impeachment inquiry into former President Donald Trump. He said expects to learn more after meetings with other Republicans and also expects the investigation to happen in the background while Congress focuses on passing a short-term spending bill. It has until Sept. 30 to approve a continuing resolution or the government shuts down.

I trust Kevin McCarthy, and if hes saying that this is the next step, then Im gonna be with him on it, Bentz said. I had already heard enough that, as a lawyer, I thought, Wow, thats really odd about some of the things that the Biden family had been doing.

Bentz said he didnt know of any link between odd behavior from members of the Biden family and Biden himself as president, but said he hasnt been briefed since July.

Meanwhile, Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer, a Republican who represents a swing district that includes most of Clackamas and Linn counties plus Bend, described the impeachment inquiry as a momentous step. A spokesman for Chavez-DeRemer didnt answer specific questions about whether Chavez-DeRemer supports the inquiry and whether there should be any limits on the inquirys scope, instead sharing a four-sentence statement.

An impeachment inquiry is just what it sounds like  a search for facts and the truth regarding serious allegations against President Biden, the statement said. This is a momentous step, and it should be treated solemnly and without political maneuvering or grandstanding. Like all Americans, I want the truth to come out through a fair, dignified and just process. While this plays out, I remain focused on keeping the federal government open and functioning, so that there are no disruptions to services for Oregonians.

Chavez-DeRemer won her seat in the newly redrawn 5th Congressional District by 2 percentage points last year.

Democratic members of Oregons congressional delegation criticized McCarthys decision, with Rep. Suzanne Bonamici noting on social media that an impasse over spending risks a government shutdown at the end of the month. About three dozen Republicans in the House Freedom Caucus have demanded spending cuts beyond what Biden, McCarthy and Senate leaders have agreed on to keep the government running.

The extremist House Republicans are putting the government at risk of a shutdown at the end of the month, Bonamici said. Its absurd that Speaker McCarthy is using limited time and resources to open an impeachment inquiry into President Biden instead of engaging in meaningful funding negotiations.

Rep. Earl Blumenauer, who represents the overwhelmingly Democratic 3rd District centered on Portland, described the impeachment inquiry as a a pathetic effort to change the subject on Capitol Hill.

The fact is that the Republicans cant even agree with each other on things that really matter like funding our government, Blumenauer continued. The last time the Republicans tried this, it didnt just fail but it was a disaster for them at the ballot box. We can only hope that this effort meets the same fate.

Rep. Val Hoyle, a first-term member of Congress whose 4th District leans Democratic and is centered on the Eugene area, also described the inquiry as pathetic in a statement.

Its a pathetic political stunt to distract from the fact that Congressional Republicans may shut down the government at the end of the month, she said. I want to know what Kevin McCarthy is doing to ensure Social Security recipients will receive a check, veterans will have access to health care and hundreds of thousands of federal employees wont be furloughed.

And Rep. Andrea Salinas, also a first-term member of Congress whose 6th District leans Democratic, described it as partisan politics at its worst in a social media post.

This wasteful, baseless exercise is a distraction that will hamper our ability to work on the issues that really matter to working Oregonians, Salinas added.

-- Julia Shumway; jshumway@oregoncapitalchronicle.com; @JMShumway
A $950 million data center planned in eastern Oregon could herald a new wave of server farm construction in that part of the state.

Commercial real estate giant Sabey plans to build a 100-megawatt data center on 60 acres in the city of Umatilla. The property is just west of two even larger data centers Amazon plans to build in the city, which sits along the Columbia River about 190 miles east of Portland.
Did you catch the 2023 MTV VMAs where NSYNC reunited on stage? The ultimate music awards show returned Tuesday night to MTV tonight live from Newark, New Jerseys Prudential Center. Even though the event was pushed from August to September due to the writers strike, there was still a huge show of performances from your favorite chart-topping artists and appearances from celebrities and pop-culture icons including Ice Spice, Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, and more. The MTV Video Music Awards show aired on Tuesday, September 12 at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET with a live TV broadcast on MTV, but if you missed it you can still stream the VMAs on demand for FREE right now with a trial of Philo.

 You can stream the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards Red Carpet ON DEMAND for FREE on Philo (free trial), on DirecTV Stream (free trial), or with Fubo (free trial).

For a sneak peek at what the performances might look like at this years event, check out the video provided below featuring NLE Choppa and Nelly who came out together and performed Aint Gonna Answer and Its Getting Hot at this years awards show.

Who performed at the 2023 MTV VMAs?

Demi Lovato

Karol G

Maneskin

Stray Kids

Shakira

Lil Wayne

Anitta

Doja Cat

Kelsea Ballerini

This years VMA winners include (see the full list here):

BEST NEW ARTIST

Ice Spice

VIDEO OF THE YEAR

Taylor Swift

ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Taylor Swift

VIDEO VANGUARD

Shakira

VIDEO FOR GOOD

Dove Cameron

HOW TO WATCH

What: The 2023 MTV Video Music Awards Show

Where: Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey

TV channel: MTV (on demand)

Watch live stream online: You can stream the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards Show ON DEMAND for FREE on Philo (free trial, cheaper monthly fees) or Fubo (free trial). You can also watch live for free if you are a Paramount+ subscriber, or if you want to sign up with a free trial from that service. If you are out of free trials from those services, you can also try and watch it live with Sling (promotional offers), or on Hulu + Live (free trial) if you prefer those platforms and their pricing plans.

More information on how to stream live TV, sports events, and movies on the cheap:

 How to watch Pac-12 Network on TV, online without cable (and live stream some games free)

 How to watch college football on ESPN+: What is it, what does it cost and include?

 What TV channel is NFL RedZone? Best streaming options for 2023

 How to watch every Mariners game down the stretch: Streaming guide and more

 What is Philo? The cheapest live TV streaming service: Cost, what it includes
CARSON CITY  Segments of state highway have recently been dedicated as part of a new Nevada Department of Transportation program memorializing first responders who have lost their lives in the line of duty on state roadways.

Memorial signs have been installed on each direction of the following state highways, naming the up-to-one-mile sections of highway in honor of the following fallen officers:

MICAH DAVID MAY: Interstate 15 near West Sahara Avenue dedicated to Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Micah David May who died by vehicular assault in July 2021

BENJAMIN MICHAEL JENKINS: U.S. 93 near the U.S. 93 Alternate junction (north of Ely) dedicated to Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Benjamin Michael Jenkins who died by gunshot in March 2020

JACK LEE SPENCER, SR.: Interstate 80 approximately twenty miles east of Fernley (directly east of exit 65 Nightingale interchange) dedicated to Bureau of Indian Affairs Captain Jack Lee Spencer, Sr. who died in a vehicle crash in September 1998

CARLOS J. BORLAND: I-80 approximately one mile east of Lovelock (near where I-80 crosses over the Humboldt River) dedicated to Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Carlos J. Borland who died by gunfire in December 1993

CREIGHTON TRAVIS SPENCER: I-80 approximately ten miles west of Elko (directly west of exit 292 Hunter interchange) dedicated to Bureau of Indian Affairs Officer Creighton Travis Spencer who died in a vehicle crash in March 2001

The signs installed for Jack Lee Spencer, Sr. and Creighton Travis Spencer mark the first time that a Native American officer has been honored on Nevadas state roadway network.

Law enforcement officers and first responders risk their lives every day to protect Nevadans and ensure the safety of Nevada roadways. Nevadas Honorary Highway Names are an opportunity to honor Nevada first responders who have lost their lives during official business on state roads. Other segments of state highway have previously been named in honor of individuals, including fallen law enforcement officers. One example is a section of I-80 near the Sparks Marina named in honor of fallen Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Daniel Peterson.

NDOTs new Honorary Highway Name program establishes a formal process to request approximate one-mile sections of highway be named in honor of first responders who lost their lives while conducting official business on the state network. First responders include law enforcement officers, emergency services personnel, NDOT personnel, and tow truck operators. An Honorary Highway Name can be requested by immediate family members of the deceased.

Keeping the Spencer name a visible part of our communities is an appropriate tribute to this family whose loved ones gave their own lives to protect ours, Nevada Indian Commission Director Stacey Montooth explained. The instinct to run to danger and the strength of character of law enforcement and all first responders is never so obvious as when our Circle of Life is broken. For the Nevada Indian Commission, this tribute to these two courageous Bureau of Indian Affairs officers is undertaken and supported with reverence and gratitude.

The dedication signs honor the legacy of each of the Nevada State Troopers and first responders who lost their lives in the line of duty, said Nevada State Police Director George Togliatti. We will never forget their sacrifice in serving and protecting Nevada and our communities.

Whether law enforcement, EMS workers or traffic responders such as NDOT or tow truck personnel, Nevadas first responders put their lives on the line every day with one goal: to help keep us all safe on Nevada highways, NDOT Director Tracy Larkin Thomason explained. This program is another opportunity for Nevadans to recognize and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to serve us all.
Tripoli, Libya (PANA)  Medicines, food, body bags, first aid kits and household items from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) will be distributed to communities in Libya to assist the thousands of families in need after the devastating floods in the countrys northeast
New York, US (PANA) - Both Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and their rival paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are responsible for abhorrent rights violations as they battle for supremacy, the UN envoy to the country said on Wednesday
Photo: (Photo : Vince Fleming on Unsplash)

Children have an uncanny knack for exploring the world around them, sometimes leading to uncomfortable situations like getting objects lodged in their noses. While these incidents can be both stressful and potentially dangerous, first aid group Tiny Hearts Education is providing parents with vital information on how to handle such scenarios efficiently and safely.

First on the list of concerns are button or lithium coin batteries. If ingested or inserted into bodily orifices, these batteries can cause serious harm. "If you discover that your child has inserted a button battery into their nose, immediate action is crucial. Call the poison hotline without delay, as this situation could cause severe tissue damage and warrant urgent removal," says an Instagram post from Tiny Hearts Education.

The "Big Kiss" Technique: A Game Changer?

To address less severe but still concerning situations, Tiny Hearts Education recommends the "Big Kiss" technique. The co-founder of Tiny Hearts, Nikki Jurcutz, who is also a former paramedic, developed this straightforward yet effective method. She has successfully employed it on a child with a raisin stuck up their nose and says that the 2-second trick could spare families an agonizing trip to the emergency department.

The "Big Kiss" technique follows a simple four-step sequence:

Maintain composure: The first thing parents need to do is remain calm. A child will pick up on a parent's anxiety, which could make the situation worse. Positioning: Have the child sit upright and instruct them to keep their mouth closed. Sealing the Mouth: Place your mouth over the child's open mouth to create an airtight seal. The Key Moment: Blow a controlled puff of air into the child's mouth while holding the opposite nostril closed.

This technique leverages air pressure to dislodge the stuck object safely through the child's nasal passage.

Read Also: Helpful Parenting Tips for New Parents Who Want to Hear It

What About Safety?

Tiny Hearts Education acknowledges potential drawbacks and hazards. For instance, there's the risk of trauma to sensitive areas like the eardrum. However, the organization points out that there have not been any recorded instances of severe injuries, such as ruptured eardrums or pneumothorax, when employing this method. They emphasize that the puff of air should be "short and sharp."

The organization also advises parents to seek medical attention if they've attempted the technique a few times without success, especially if the child appears to be in pain or distress. If the lodged item is too large, has sharp edges, or if the child is visibly suffering, immediate medical intervention is strongly recommended.

Interestingly, this technique might not just be for young children. A case in point is an adult woman from Georgia who discovered that what she thought was a giant booger was actually a bead stuck in her nasal passage for an astonishing 20 years. If she had known the "big kiss" technique, she might have avoided two decades of discomfort.

Tiny Hearts Education's advocacy for elementary but effective first aid techniques like the "Big Kiss" emphasizes the value of such knowledge. These methods can mitigate risks, alleviate stress, and sometimes even avert a medical emergency. While certain scenarios require immediate professional assistance, understanding basic first aid principles enables parents to take quick and informed action in less severe cases.

Related Article: Parenting Tips: 5 Surprising Reason For Children's Misbehavior
Photo: (Photo : ALEX TAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Three years ago, Isla Edwards, then 7 years old, was living the life of a normal child in Texas. Her mother, Jacquelyn Stockdale, took her for what appeared to be a routine eye exam to investigate her daughter's "fuzzy" vision. With the expectation that Isla might just need glasses, the diagnosis they received instead was beyond their worst nightmares and changed the course of their lives irrevocably.

A Routine Checkup Turns Into a Life-Changing Event

After an eye test that many would consider straightforward, the ophthalmologist immediately sensed something was off. Without wasting any time, he referred Isla and her family to Texas Children's Hospital in Houston.

"To say we were caught off guard would be an understatement. I was expecting to leave with a prescription for eyeglasses, not with my world turned upside down," said a disheartened Stockdale.

Further examinations and genetic testing revealed that Isla had signs of pediatric macular degeneration. The underlying culprit was diagnosed as neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses, or more specifically, CLN3 juvenile Batten disease. This is an extremely rare, incurable, and fatal illness with no available treatment. This genetic disorder affects the nervous system and causes symptoms like vision loss, seizures, and early-onset dementia.

"I had to digest the fact that Isla would not only lose her vision but also likely suffer from childhood dementia, epilepsy, and a precipitous decline in her mental and physical abilities," Stockdale detailed.

Faced with the harrowing reality that her child's life could be tragically short, stretching only into the late teens or early twenties, the family was emotionally shattered.

"There were no indications that she was anything less than a perfect, joyful little girl. Telling my family the news was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do," said Stockdale.

Read Also: 3-Year-Old Boy Contracts Rare Tick-Borne Disease from Swimming Pool

Protective Silence and an Adaptive Spirit

Due to the severity and emotional complexity of the diagnosis, the family chose not to discuss it with Isla.

"We believe it's not a burden she should have to bear," Stockdale explained.

Meanwhile, Isla has exhibited incredible resilience. Despite losing 90% of her vision over the past two years, she continues to enjoy life, learning to read Braille and walk with a cane. Her spirit remains undiminished as she continues to indulge in her favorite activities like swimming, dancing, and video games.

What has truly been a ray of light in these trying times is a medication called Miglustat. Approved for Gaucher disease and currently under clinical trials for Batten disease, Isla has been on this medication since November 2022. The drug has had a remarkable effect, effectively halting the deterioration of her condition.

Yet this comes at a significant financial cost. The medication costs a staggering $18,000 per month, an amount that the family has turned to crowdfunding to afford. "The expense is overwhelming, but the impact on Isla's life is beyond any monetary value," said Stockdale.

Isla's journey is far from over, but her family finds solace and immense pride in her fortitude. "We want her to know that her condition doesn't make her less than anyone; it makes her even more extraordinary," emphasized Stockdale. While they still face an uncertain future, the Edwards family's tale serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the advances in medicine that offer a glimmer of hope in the darkest of times.

Related Article: A Parent's Guide to Polio Vaccination: Understanding Why It's Essential for Your Child's Well-being
Photo: (Photo : Spencer Platt / Getty Images)

In a bold move that contradicts federal health recommendations, Florida's leadership under Gov. Ron DeSantis is now advising those under the age of 65 to steer clear of the new COVID-19 vaccine boosters from Pfizer and Moderna.

Defying Federal Guidance

Florida's Surgeon General, Joseph Ladapo, stated during a recent online panel led by Gov. DeSantis that he had directed their department to provide guidance that recommends and advises against the use of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines for anyone under 65. This decision challenges the directives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Just a day earlier, the CDC had recommended that everyone 6 months and older should consider the new booster, especially if they haven't been vaccinated against COVID-19 in the last two months. The primary goal of this booster is to combat the omicron subvariant, XBB.1.5.

National Response and Florida's Divergence

While the CDC continues to uphold that vaccination remains our best defense against COVID-19, especially concerning hospitalization, deaths, and the dreaded 'long COVID, Ladapo questions the logic. He pointed to the widespread immunity in the population and voiced concerns about the safety and efficacy of the vaccines for the younger populace and those not considered high-risk.

In stark contrast, CDC Director Mandy Cohen labeled Florida's stance "dangerous". Cohen staunchly defended the updated COVID-19 vaccine, saying that it is proven safe, it is effective, and it has been thoroughly and independently reviewed by the FDA and CDC.

This isn't the first time DeSantis' administration has rocked the boat when it comes to federal guidelines related to COVID-19 vaccines. In fact, his opposition to some federal mandates has catapulted him into the limelight, especially among national Republican circles.

Once a supporter of COVID-19 vaccines, DeSantis has now positioned his administration around skepticism surrounding the safety and efficacy of these vaccines, a view not endorsed by the majority of the scientific community.

Read Also: Florida Amusement Park Horror: Six-Year-Old Injured After Roller Coaster Fall at Fun Spot

Political Repercussions Amidst Health Concerns

DeSantis' recent pronouncements and his continued emphasis on the purported dangers of the COVID-19 vaccine seem to be twofold: a genuine concern for Floridians and a strategic move to establish a distinct political identity, especially as he seems to challenge former President Donald Trump despite lagging in the polls.

The recent boosters are, in essence, an upgraded form of the original mRNA COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna.

Over the past few years, the U.S. has rolled out hundreds of millions of these vaccines with minimal safety concerns. But it's worth noting that both vaccines have shown a slight risk of myocarditis among teenage boys. However, even for this group, the CDC believes the rewards outweigh the risks.

Both Moderna and Pfizer have showcased data affirming the efficacy and safety of their boosters.

Moderna's results stem from human trials, revealing enhanced antibody defenses against several coronavirus subvariants. Pfizer's data, based on lab studies with mice, indicates a similar uptick in antibody response. But the Florida Department of Health remains skeptical, indicating in a press release that the booster's approval seemingly lacked "meaningful booster-specific clinical trial data performed in humans."

As the world grapples with the evolving threat of COVID-19, states like Florida are taking a stand, whether driven by science, politics, or a blend of both.

Related Article: Florida Chemistry Student Injects Opioids in Bizarre Neighbor Feud: University Lab Used for Toxic Mix
Horror and the 1970s (but I repeat myself! badum-tish).

A Dark Song: Grueling, unexpected Irish horror flick about a grieving woman who hires a Satanist to teach her a demon-summoning ritual, for sad reasons which might be sadder lies. The ritual requires them to spend months in a creepy house together, so theres a strong you and I against the world vibe, like The Night Porter without either history or (much) sexuality. Two trapped and angry people resorting to one another, because you have to yell at somebody, right? A slow and wrenching film which nonetheless lives up to the promise of its title.

Tigers Are Not Afraid: A Mexican fable in which children go up against their local drug cartel. Paola Lara is terrific as the lead; the scene where she stumbles forward into the narcotraficantes backyard, her shoulders high and face frozen, is breathtaking. The locations and production design are stellar. The look of the film is the best aspect: urban ruins, tiger graffiti, gleaming water, alleys and abandonment. The fairy-tale, magical/horror elements are a little too constructive and strenuously uplifting. Im not saying movies about kids vs. cartels need to be lightless, Im just saying that this specific films hope seemed more like a genre convention than a persuasive dream.

Performance: Oh man, the 1970s. Remember when filmmakers decided they wanted to push the boundaries, and ended up with rhythmless scenes intercutting explicit sex and whatever banal thing they thought might express the hollowness of bourgeois capitalism? Remember when they did screechy sound effects to signify that modern life is madness? A sadistic gangster (to call him sexually-ambiguous would give him too much credit) and a burnout rock star (played by Mick Jagger!) are funhouse mirrors of one another. This is an interesting and extremely 1970s idea, the rebels are as bad as the bosses. Jagger is fantasticlouche and enervated, in his fantasy world of hunting trophies and untouched synths. Unfortunately the film is mostly about the gangster, who lacks Jaggers charisma and generally is no fun. And then the self-consciously disorienting style makes it even harder to care about what is happening.

Threads: Famously-horrifying 1984 BBC docudrama about a Soviet nuclear strike on Sheffield. You know, I dont even want to tell you too much about this thing. It is genuinely disturbing, in part because theres some skillful character work in the, what, hour or so before the mushroom cloud rises. (Sheffield itself is vividly-imagined, a character in its own right as they say.) In the back half, the docudrama format allows the film to do a lot of work quickly, telling rather than showing you the scope of the horror. The matter-of-fact statistics and voiceover make it more painful, not lessyou know something is very bad when nobodys trying to tug your heartstrings about it. I dont know, what can you say about Threads? I knew its reputation and it lived up to it.

All of these are streaming on Shudder except Performance, which I saw at the AFI.

Tigress w/cub, photographed by davidvraju, via Wikimedia Commons and used under a Creative Commons license.
U.S Rep. Mark Amodei recently announced his intent to run for a seventh full term in 2024.

Amodei represents Nevadas expansive 2nd Congressional District that includes Carson City, all of Churchill, Douglas, Elko, Eureka, Humboldt, Lander, Pershing and Washoe counties, and the majority of Lyon County.

Amodei, 65, is the dean of Nevadas six-member congressional delegation and its sole Republican.

Born in Carson City, Amodei graduated from Carson High (1976) and the University of Nevada (1980). He received his J.D. degree from the University of Pacific McGeorge School of Law (1983).

He served with the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General Corps from 1983 to 1987, returning to Carson to become an attorney in private practice from 1987 to 2007.

He was president of the Nevada Mining Association from 2007 to 2008.

Amodei served in the Nevada Assembly from 1997 to 1999 and in the Nevada Senate from 1999 to 2011. He was named the Outstanding Freshman Legislator in 1997 and was selected Nevada Senate president pro tempore from 2003 to 2008.

Amodei chaired the Nevada Republican Party from 2010 until 2011, when he stepped down to run in the September, 2011 special election to succeed Dean Heller (who had been appointed to the U.S. Senate) as the U.S. representative for Nevadas 2nd congressional district.

He won the special election in 2011 and was re-elected to full terms in 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2020. In each election he won every county in the district.

In 2022, Amodei won renomination in the June primary with 55% of the vote against four GOP challengers, including Douglas County Commissioner Danny Tarkanian. He easily defeated Democrat Elizabeth Krause by 22% in November.

With the GOP holding a 60,000 voter registration advantage in his congressional district , Amodei is a prohibitive favorite for re-election in 2024.

Amodei now has increased responsibility as a lawmaker.

He currently sits on the House Appropriations Committee, a much coveted legislative assignment. In January, he became chairman of its Legislative Branch Subcommittee.

As a House GOP Appropriations subcommittee chair, Amodei joined 11 other subcommittee chairs, known colloquially as cardinals, who have major power of the purse for two years.

As Nevadas first legislative cardinal in decades, Amodei held oversight hearings and drafted a bill funding the legislative branch that moved out of his subcommittee in May.

The bill authorizes the FY2024 budget for the House, the Capitol Police, congressional staff and several independent government agencies.

In May, Amodei also reintroduced a Nevada lands bill, the Northern Nevada Economic Development and Conservation Act, that he hopes will be passed by the end of the year.

This legislation will allow for the conveyance of federal lands to Douglas County, Pershing County, Carson City, the City of Fernley, the City of Sparks and the Incline Village General Improvement District for public purposes and economic development.

Additionally, the bill designates nearly 150,000 acres of wilderness in northern Nevada and removes the possibility of oil and gas leasing on 300,000 acres of the Ruby Mountains in Elko County.

The House reconvened on September 12 trying to avert a government shutdown. Theyre scheduled to meet for just 11 days before the governments fiscal year ends on September 30.

Amodei is a political ally of Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who represents a neighboring Bakersfield, California-based congressional district.

Both favor passage of a short-term funding measure, known as a continuing resolution, to keep government offices running in the absence of a House-passed budget. Theres resistance from some hard-right Republicans who openly embrace a government shutdown.

I dont think anyone wins in a shutdown, Amodei told a Carson Chamber audience on August 31. Ill just tell you what changed from the beginning of all these shutdowns to the end  was nothing.

Buckle Up.
Kwamina Asomaning, Chief Executive of Stanbic Bank Ghana, has encouraged young graduates to imbibe the values of perseverance and resilience to achieve success in life. Mr. Asomaning was speaking at the graduation ceremony of the University Basic School at the Great Hall of the University of Ghana.



Kwamina Asomaning, who is also an alumnus of the University Basic School, shared advice in a story of a bamboo seedling, that encapsulates the values of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering self-belief. In the tale, a despairing businessman, having lost everything, sought solace in the woods and had a profound encounter with God. God shared the story of bamboo, explaining how it took five years for the bamboo seed to sprout while its roots grew stronger. During this time, the bamboos roots developed the strength to support the towering growth that followed.



Mr. Asomaning emphasized that their struggles today are nurturing the roots of their future success. He noted that growth takes time, and every individuals journey is unique. Just like the bamboo seed took years to sprout while its roots grew stronger, your struggles today are nourishing the roots of your future success. I encourage you to embrace setbacks and moments of doubt, recognizing them as essential parts of your personal growth.



Kwamina Asomanings message served as a reminder to the young graduates that they are all on their individual paths, and their potential might take time to surface. He urged the graduates to keep nurturing their passions, keep striving, and keep believing in themselves.



Your journey is unique, and your time to shine will come, he assured them. Mr. Asomaning concluded his address by encouraging the young graduates to be as resilient as the bamboo, to invest in themselves, and to keep their dreams alive. He emphasized that although the road ahead might not always be easy, with determination and the belief that they can excel in whatever they put their minds to, they will find their purpose and make a difference in the world.

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
Donewell Insurance in collaboration with Happy 98.9 FM successfully held the 2023 edition of its annual blood donation exercise, marking over a decade long partnership of supporting the National Blood Service and the 37 Military Hospital Blood Bank.



The sought-after event took place on the 9th of September, 2023 at the Ayalolo Bus Terminal in Accra.



Blood donors, coming from far and near exceeded the estimated number, making the exercise a fruitful and outstanding one.



According to the National Blood Service s Donor Recruiter, Stephen Danso, a pint of blood can possibly save up to three lives hence, this years theme; Give Blood, Give Often is geared at motivatIng Ghanaians to engage in blood donation exercises regularly to stock up various blood banks across the country and save lives.



Director of Broadcasting for Global Media Alliance Broadcasting Company (GMABC), Timothy Karikari expressed his appreciation to the donors.



Much attention should be paid to stocking up the National Blood Bank across the country, to help those desperately in need of blood transfusions , and to increase accessibility We need more people voluntarily donating blood at various health facilities and making the initiative a frequent one, he said.



He added that Happy FM over the years has embarked on this initiative as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility as a way of supporting society and creating more awareness on blood donation.



The Marketing and Business Development Manager for Donewell Insurance, Cecilia Bruce, was elated about the outcome of the exercise and stated that Donewell Insurance promises a long-lasting partnership with Happy FM to ensure blood is given and often.



She added that We at Donewell Insurance invest in priceless and deserving initiative such as this because of lifes irreplaceably valuable and the priceless nature of blood.



She made a call to Ghanaians to engage in medical exercises such as this to sustain blood supplies for those in need.



The 37 Military Hospital Blood Bank team, led by Major Kwarteng expressed gratitude to donors and Happy FM for its continual support to stock various blood banks across the country.



He added that our mission as the blood bank is to attain regular national supply of safe blood that relies solely on voluntary unpaid blood donation to those in need.



He encouraged every Ghanaian to be a part of blood donation exercises across the country.



Providing free eye screening and prescriptions for donors was My Eyes Center.



CEO of My eyes Center, Dr. Chineye Adisa said that,  many eye conditions go undetected in the early stages, the earlier a problem is detected , the appropriate treatment is administered to prevent visual impairment.



Regular eye screening is important for everyone, and we are glad to see donors troop in to check the conditions of their eyes. Let us all be encouraged to check often.



She commended the Happy FM and Donewell team for starting such an initiative, pledging her continued support to the blood donation drive.



The 2023 Happy FM/Donewell Insurance blood donation exercise was in partnership with the National Blood Service, 37 Military Hospital and received support for My Eyes Center.

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
Libya has been in crisis since long-serving ruler Col Muammar Gaddafi was overthrown and killed in 2011.



Since 2014, it has been politically split between the internationally-recognised interim government in Tripoli (in the west), and the administration in Tobruk (in the east) - which doesn't recognise the Tripoli government.



Derna, a former Islamic State stronghold during the post-Gaddafi civil war, is now mostly controlled by the eastern administration.



Countries that would like to send support are having issues negotiating with the two administrations.



But despite the split, the government in Tripoli has sent a plane with 14 tonnes of medical supplies, body bags and more than 80 doctors and paramedics.

Source: BBC









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The Mamprugu Youth Association (MAYA) in Ghana has called on the government to be impartial and desist from meddling in chieftaincy-related issues in order not to deepen some chieftaincy crises in some communities.



Speaking at a press conference yesterday in Accra, spokesperson and patron for the association, Dr. Musah Issahaku Yamba said the call has become necessary due to inconsistent and sometimes unhelpful interference by government in chieftaincy matters in recent times.



He said, We want to drum home our demands for fairness and justice in the handling of chieftaincy issues uniformly in Ghana by the government. One may not be far from right to qualify the level of inconsistency as adumbrated below as hypocrisy and counter-productive to a peaceful resolution of the many chieftaincy issues in the country.



According to him, the inconsistent, biased and unfair meddling of government in chieftaincy affairs in the country emboldens criminal elements in some parts of the country, especially in the Bawku Traditional Area of Mamprugu.



Citing the example of how the government condemned the enskinment of the 15th Bawku Naaba by the Nayiri of the Mamprugu kingdom, though the kingdom followed all the necessary procedures required of them since the establishment of the kingdom in the 16th century.



We find the government statement not only a blatant disregard for Mamprugu and its traditional authority but also a clear breach of the 1992 Constitution which conspicuously frowns upon any form of political interference in Chieftaincy matters in Ghana, he added.



The group also alleged that government has on several occasions meddled in chieftaincy affairs in some parts of the country, while turning a blind eye to some areas which are equally facing similar chieftaincy challenges.



Dr. Yamba therefore asked government through the Information Minister to immediately retract and apologise to the people of Mamprugu for embarrassing the Nayiri with that unfortunate statement and threat of arrest.



The government has no moral and legal justification of pushing the arrest warrant for the 15th Bawku Naaba, Naa Sheriga Alhaji Seidu Abagre, who has been duly and customarily enskinned by the Nayiri, he added.

Source: dailyguidenetwork.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, clashed with the Head of Public Affairs of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Fiifi Boafo, on live TV over issues pertaining to the prices of cocoa in Ghana.



Fiifi Boafo, during a panel discussion on JoyNews on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, said that he was not going to give details of Ghanas cocoa stock because he did not have the permission of traders to do so.



He said that the details of Ghanas cocoa stock cannot be made public because it might affect Ghana negatively when it is negotiating with its trading partners.



Traders would not give me permission to give every detail (of stock) the reason why I am not going to give the details is if you, for example, come and sit on radio and tell the whole public that COCOBOD stock is 800, we have sold 750 and we are left with 50.



The person who is doing the trading is obviously giving too much information such that it affects your ability to be able to use the management of stocks as part of the trading tool, he explained.



However, Sammy Gyamfi was shocked by the suggestion of Fiifi Boafo that Ghanas cocoa stock could not be made public.



He indicated that details of Ghanas cocoa production levels are always made public once the government goes for cocoa-syndicated loans.



What! Cocoa pricing which is a matter of public record. If you go for a syndicated loan right now you won't go with all these figures.



What is this? He can't tell us the percentage of cocoa they have sold. This is scandalous, he said.



He added that the COCOBOD public relations officers claim cannot be true because the trading of cocoa is done publicly and Ghana's production levels are always known to the public but this government is hiding the records for ulterior motives.







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
President Bola Tinubu, on Thursday, said Nigeria had no business being poor, having been blessed with enormous human and natural resources across the country.



In a statement by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, on Thursday in Abuja, Tinubu assured Nigerians that under his leadership, the resources would be adequately harnessed for the benefit of citizens.



Ngelale said the president stated this at a meeting with a 62-man delegation from Rivers, comprising of leaders from both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to the State House, Abuja.



We are not meant to be in a position to be poor. We will turn the tide! Somewhere, somehow in this storm, theres a quiet and peaceful place for us. We will locate it!



We are not lazy people, we are richly endowed. We just need to be our brothers keeper, and good neighbours to one another. I am not a President that will give excuses.



I will work hard for our nation with purpose, determination and dedication, to create wealth for all Nigerians., we have no reason to be poor! We will not look back, we will run aggressively forward.



Today, we may be swimming against the tide. But the waves will soon propel us forward from behind. We will achieve the goals and dreams of our forefathers. I am inspired by the people I now lead, the President said.



Speaking on infrastructure development in Rivers State, Tinubu said he had heard the cries of prominent Rivers sons, with particular reference to the Eleme Junction-Onne axis of the East-West Road, linking the Port Harcourt Refinery.





Source: vanguardngr









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
Dr. George Akuffo Dampare has refuted allegations of him having a personal relationship with the leader of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and former President John Dramani Mahama.



The Inspector General of Police has been accused by his senior officers of harboring a political intent to ensuring the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) loses the 2024 elections.



There are also that Mr. Mahama has an opening in the Police Service due to his close relationship with the IGP.



Addressing these allegations before a Parliamentary Committee probing the leaked tape scandal involving senior Police officers, COP Alex Mensah and Supt. George Asare together with NPP guru, Bugri Naabu, Dr. Dampare made it crystal clear that he has no relationship with Mr. Mahama neither is he involved in any political machinations.



"I am a professional Police officer and I don't do such things...It is falsehood. It is not true, so they should stop it", he averred.



He added; "The position of the Inspector General of Police and by extension every Police officer is to serve the good people of this country, of which the former President is one of those and there is nothing wrong with that. But there is a distinction between something that has happened and something that has not happened and people want to create it in order to make their case look good so as to for them to get what they want because they know that type of information sells and that is shameful."

Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Sylvester Tetteh, the Member of Parliament for Bortianor-Ngleshie Amanfro in Greater Accra and a prominent member of the "Alan for President" campaign, has thrown his support behind Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the run-up to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries scheduled for November 4.



During a recent appearance on Metro TV's Good Morning Ghana (September 12, 2023), Tetteh stated, "It is obvious that the NPP rank and file support the candidacy of Vice-President Bawumia, and, in that light, I have decided, in consultation with my constituents, to join Team Bawumia."



He emphasized that with Alan Kyerematen no longer in the race, he needed to choose among the remaining candidates, and his choice is Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia because he believes Bawumia would make an excellent president.



"I am making a firm commitment that I will support Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the 4 November elections," Tetteh asserted,



This development comes on the heels of Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen's decision to withdraw from the November 4 primaries, a move that was widely expected due to his poor performance in the initial round of voting on August 26. In that round, the NPP had reduced the number of presidential aspirants from ten to five.



Before Kyerematen's official withdrawal, his campaign team, known as "Alan 4 President (A4P)," had remained relatively quiet since the special electoral college vote in August. Despite speculation, Kyerematen's intentions remained a topic of debate among NPP members.



Following his withdrawal, many of Kyerematen's supporters openly declared their backing for whomever the NPP ultimately selects as its presidential candidate for the December 2024 elections.



Notably, another prominent member of A4P, former tourism minister and MP for Evalue Gwira, Catherine Afeku, has also thrown her support behind Dr. Bawumia.



Alan Kyerematen's significant defeat in the special electoral college vote, where Dr. Bawumia secured over 68% of the vote compared to Kyerematen's 10.29%, has raised concerns within his team about his ability to fund his campaign and maintain momentum, even if he still desires to run. This defeat effectively neutralized Kyerematen's "Aduru Wo So" (It's my turn) mantra.







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
A flag bearer hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, has asked the leadership of the party to ensure a level playing field devoid of biases and open support for a particular candidate in the November 4 National Delegates Congress to elect a presidential candidate to contest on the ticket of the party for the 2024 general election.



He said all aspirants would wholeheartedly accept the outcome of the November 4 contest, if they believed the election was fair and not manipulated to favour a particular candidate.



They would also support the winner should a level playing field for all the candidates was provided.



"We will need each other.



Therefore, all must be treated well, "he noted.



Conflict resolution mechanism

Speaking in an interview with a cross section of the media at his campaign office in Accra last Saturday, Dr Akoto further charged the leadership of the party to initiate the conflict resolution mechanism within the party and help to build bridges by bringing everyone on board in their forward march to breaking the eight-year governance cycle in 2024.



He said events leading to the Super Delegates Conference and its aftermath where several concerns had been raised going into the November 4 National Delegate's Conference cast a slur on the partys image.



Dr Akoto, who has worked with the UN for over 18 years, noted that the earlier those concerns were addressed, the better.



For instance, he argued that reprisal attacks on supporters of aspiring flag bearers must be condemned by all while leadership of the party moved to unite the presidential hopefuls, even before the November 4 election was held.



"The chances of our great NPP going into election 2024 are clear.



We stand to win the election.



Therefore, acts of intimidation, reprisal attacks on individuals, and machinations against one another must cease forthwith.



As I have already alluded to, we can't go into the 2024 election on a limping leg.



We must close our ranks now, "he noted.



Comments

It was the first time Dr Akoto was publicly commenting on the party's flagbearership polls, having placed 4th in the Super Delegates Conference held on Saturday, September 26, 2023.



Commenting further, the former two-term Member of Parliament for Kwadaso said he was worried that the unity of the party ahead of the 2024 general election was in limbo, noting that it was about time all efforts were put in place to address it.



He posited that much as the situation placed a lot of burden on the national executives of the party to address it, all those who matter in the party, including all flagbearer hopefuls, must also give a helping hand toward uniting the UP tradition.



"Acts that seek to provoke opposing flagbearer contestants should not be entertained.



All our campaign messages must be decorous to attract floating voters.



Let us preach what we can do to develop NPP and Ghana, not things that will bring us down, "Dr Akoto underscored.

Source: graphiconline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
It was all applause for Vice President Bawumia when he joined the leadership and members of the Methodist Church of Ghana (MCG) to commission its newly constructed head office complex in Accra yesterday.



This was when he literally turned his speech into a mini-sermon, indicating that his voice wanted to give him a showdown this morning, but I say the devil is a liar.



He also admonished Christians to live transformed lives like Jesus Christ, the son of God.



Addressing a packed auditorium at the new Wesley Tower building, Dr. Bawumia said if Christians could live transformed lives in Jesus Christ, then it meant that the church and the state were heading towards a bright future.



That, he said, was because their transformed lives will transform our societies and will affect the entire nation positively, attracting applause from his audience.



The 16-storey state-of-the-art edifice, which is located at the Ambassadorial Enclave of West Ridge in Accra, was funded by the churchs internally-generated funds.



It comprises an auditorium, a restaurant, executive conference rooms, offices for rent and a 100-capacity car park.



The facility will provide a spatial accommodation for the commercial business of the Methodist Conference and project the churchs reputation as one of the oldest Christian denominations in Ghana.



Vice President Bawumia expressed the hope that the Wesley Towers would be a place of transformation, spiritual growth, and maturity for all those who enter its doors.



May the Wesley Towers be a place where lives are changed, where relationships are deepened.



Let this edifice be a symbol of our comfort to the values of faith, hope, and love. May it serve as a reminder that, as a community, we are called to be a source of light and inspiration to all who enter us, Dr. Bawumia prayed.



For him, the completion of the building which has virtually changed the skyline of Ridge area is a testament to the unwavering faith, dedication, and commitment of the entire membership of the Methodist Church Ghana, and that it is a day of reflection, of thanksgiving, and of looking forward to the bright future that awaits us within these walls.



As we stand here today, we are reminded of the countless hours of hard work and sacrifice that have brought us to this moment. The journey to this beautiful edifice has been one marked by faith, hope, and love.



It is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared purpose and a shared vision, he noted.



He was therefore of the belief that the Wesley Towers was not just a physical structure, but it is a symbol of our faith, a beacon of hope, and a place where love and compassion will flourish.



He noted that it is a space where we will come together to worship, to fellowship, to work, to learn, to support one another, and to reach out to those in need, which is the core business of the church.



The Vice President expressed gratitude to members of the church who had given so generously their time, talents, money, and resources to make the Wesley Towers a reality, saying your dedication and commitment to this project is truly inspiring.



In his sermon, the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana, Most Reverend Dr. Paul Kwabena Boafo, entreated members of the church to rededicate their lives to God by presenting themselves as living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to the Lord.



He said the edifice would be a symbol of enduring faith and hope in God, which will be used to propagate the gospel of Christ to all nations.



He cited Nehemiah 12:27-47 which referred to the story of the construction of the walls of Jerusalem by the Israelites after long periods of enslavement in Babylon and, thus, charged the congregation to rekindle their faith in the Lord and live lives that are pleasing to God.



He thanked the Lord for his faithfulness, kindness and mercies for seeing the church through the periods of difficulties during the construction phase, amid the COVID-19 pandemic that brought financial meltdown to the world, including the church.

Source: dailyguidenetwork.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Tourists take photos at the Grand Palace scenic spot in Bangkok, Thailand, June 15, 2023.

Thailand has approved a temporary visa waiver for visitors from China and Kazakhstan during the year-end high season in support of its vital tourism industry. (Xinhua/Wang Teng)

BANGKOK, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Thailand has approved a temporary visa waiver for visitors from China and Kazakhstan during the year-end high season in support of its vital tourism industry.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Wednesday that the policy will allow Chinese and Kazakh tourists to enter the Southeast Asian nation without visa requirements beginning on Sept. 25 until the end of February 2024.

The government would evaluate the impact of this temporary scheme after it ended, Srettha told a news conference after his first cabinet meeting.

"We have discussed this with all relevant agencies to ensure that we are fully ready," he said.

As a key driver of growth, Thailand has planned to reinvigorate its tourism industry by introducing promotional materials to inform prospective travelers and help them gain confidence in visiting the country, said government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke.

Additional measures also include increasing the routes and frequency of direct flights connecting with second-tier Chinese cities, which has the potential to draw more tourists, as well as setting up an online crisis management team to tackle misinformation and bad impressions among Chinese tourists, Chai told a news conference.

He noted that with this new policy, Thailand expects to receive 28 million foreign arrivals this year, earning over 1.4 trillion baht (about 39.15 billion U.S. dollars) in revenue from inbound visitors.

The country's inbound tourists are projected to reach 40 million in 2024, with 3.1 trillion baht (about 86.68 billion U.S. dollars) in total tourism revenue, he added.

In pre-pandemic 2019, Chinese tourists accounted for about 28 percent of the nearly 40 million foreign tourists to Thailand. Tourism accounts for about 12 percent of the country's GDP.

Tourists take photos at the Grand Palace scenic spot in Bangkok, Thailand, June 15, 2023.

Thailand has approved a temporary visa waiver for visitors from China and Kazakhstan during the year-end high season in support of its vital tourism industry. (Xinhua/Wang Teng)

Tourists take photos at the Wat Arun in Bangkok, Thailand, June 16, 2023.

Thailand has approved a temporary visa waiver for visitors from China and Kazakhstan during the year-end high season in support of its vital tourism industry. (Xinhua/Wang Teng)

Editor: GSY
Professor Smart Sarpong has appealed to political parties in the country to quit complaining about everything the Electoral Commission (EC) sets out to do in the name of advancing the electoral college of the country.



The Senior Research Fellow of the Kumasi Technical University wondered why the parties, particularly those in opposition, always oppose the Commission whenever it decides to improve its system.



To him, the ongoing limited registration exercise is in the right order, so called on the parties to give their support to the EC in making it a success.



The Electoral Commission on Tuesday, September 12, commenced the registration exercise and will end on Monday, 2nd October, 2023.



According to a statement by the EC, persons who have attained the age of 18 years since the last registration exercise and those who for one reason or the other did not register in 2020, should visit the District Office where they reside with either their Ghana Card or their Ghana Passport.



The Commission further stated that eligible applicants who do not possess any of the identification documents listed above are required to present two (2) persons who are already registered voters to guarantee their registration and added; the General Public is informed that it is a criminal offence for non-Ghanaians (foreigners) and persons who are not 18 years and above (minors) to attempt to register."



But the National Democratic Congress have opposed the EC's restrictions and filed a suit at the Supreme Court challenging the process.



To Prof. Smart Sarpong, the use of Ghana Card as directed by the EC is a good move to rid the electoral system of irregularities.



"My position is that every person should get the Ghana Card and use it to register and vote," he said contrary to views that the use of Ghana Card will disenfranchise eligible Ghanaians.



"Let's give people in authority our support. Let's participate in the process led by people in authority...So, work with them. You can never have a perfect human being but, under the circumstance, you help them become perfect," he charged the political parties.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
By Amy Marchiano, Republican & Herald, Pottsville, Pa. (TNS)

Amazon has arrived in Schuylkill County.

I can confirm it will be us, Sam Fisher, a spokesman for the worlds largest retailer, said Tuesday about the company occupying the Rausch Creek Logistics Center near Interstate 81 in Frailey Twp.

He declined further comment.

The building has already been occupied, other local officials said, but it has not yet begun operation as a distribution center.

Frank J. Zukas, president of the Schuylkill Economic Development Corp., said Amazon has executed a lease for the building.

Amazon will be occupying it as weve been told as a redistribution center stocked with frequently ordered items, he said.

Clayco, the general contractor for the developer, Panattoni, had said earlier that the building, just east of the interstate and just north of Route 209, covers 1.24 million square feet. Another building, at 1 million square feet, is planned for the site.

In the region, Amazon already has fulfillment centers near Hazleton, Hamburg and Reading. The massive warehouses typically employ hundreds, if not thousands, of people.

Zukas estimated 350 to 400 people will be employed at the Frailey Twp. site, a former mine-scarred property.

The effort to bring Amazon to the county was a multi-faceted one that included the township, Pine Grove Area School District, SEDCO and others, Zukas said.

The name itself is a very positive marketing tool, he said.

Donald Allar, chairman of the Frailey Twp. board of supervisors, said the company, which has been at the site for about two months, signed a 10-year lease. Allar, who toured the building last month, has been told it should be operating by the end of September.

The township, school district and county approved the property for the Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance program, which grants tax exemptions for construction and improvements on properties for 10 years.

Zukas said there will be a 75/25 split, meaning Amazon will pay 25% of the property taxes each year of the program.

More:

100 new places: These stores, restaurants and warehouses are opening in central Pa.

Opposition forms to Watts Twp. warehouse plan
NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J.  Johnson & Johnson, the global pharmaceutical and medical technologies company, is updating its logo for the first time in more than 135 years, the company announced Thursday.

J&Js new logo will replace the companys original script logo, which is based on co-founder James Wood Johnsons signature and has been in use since 1887. The updated logo features a modernized font in a darker red text, compared to the companys original logo.

J&J said its decision to update its longstanding logo signifies the companys next era in medicine and medical technology, according to the company.

Our Johnson & Johnson brand identity communicates our bold approach to innovation in healthcare, while staying true to the care we have for our patients around the world, Vanessa Broadhurst, Executive Vice President of Global Corporate Affairs, said in a news release. We take immense pride in leading healthcare for more than a century and are seizing on our scientific momentum to profoundly impact health for humanity.

The original J&J script logo will still be temporarily seen on consumer products as the new logo is added to product packaging, company materials and branding assets over time, according to the release.

J&Js original script logo was one of the longest-used company emblems in the world, the company said in a 2017 blog post celebrating the logos 130-year anniversary.
By ASHRAF KHALIL, The Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP)  While the nation has been transfixed by the two-week manhunt for escaped prisoner Danelo Souza Cavalcante in Pennsylvania, another fugitive drama has been playing out in the nations capital with comparatively minimal attention.

Christopher Haynes has been on the run for a week, since escaping from police custody at George Washington University Hospital on Sept. 6. Haynes, 30, had been arrested earlier in the day on murder charges relating to an Aug. 12 shooting in the district. His escape prompted a several-hour shelter-in-place order last week for the entire GW campus and brief roadblocks on nearby streets.

Cavalcante, a 34-year-old Brazilian national who was convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend, was captured Wednesday morning in southeastern Pennsylvania after an extended pursuit that received wall-to-wall live coverage. Haynes is still at large and awaits a trial.

The contrast between the two manhunts has been stark: while the national media has tracked every development in Cavalcantes flight, Haynes has basically dropped off the map. Police were able to provide an image last week of Haynes wearing a black T-shirt and gray briefs and moving through a local backyard.

But the only updates since then have been the offering of a $25,000 reward for information leading to his capture and a news release Tuesday increasing the reward to $30,000 and providing additional details about the escape.

Law enforcement officers escort Danelo Cavalcante from a Pennsylvania State Police barracks in Avondale Pa., on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. Cavalcante was captured Wednesday after eluding hundreds of searchers for two weeks. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, file)AP Photo/Matt Rourke

Brian Levin, a criminal justice professor at California State University San Bernardino, believes the difference in public attention and media coverage comes down to a number of factors. For starters, theres the viral video of Cavalcantes innovative escape from Chester County Prison as he braced himself between two walls and performed a sort of vertical crab-walk up and out of sight.

There were all these aspects that were Hollywood-esque, Levin said. The video of that crab-walk up the wall looked like something out of a movie.

Haynes also staged a dramatic-sounding escape, according to the Metropolitan Police Department. However, no video of that escape has yet emerged.

Police have increased the reward for information leading to the arrest of Christopher Haynes, who is on the run after escaping George Washington University Hospital last week after being apprehended in connection with a murder.https://t.co/S6p5vWrUA8  Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) September 14, 2023

After being brought to the hospital complaining of ankle pain, he attacked the officers escorting him and escaped as they were attempting to handcuff him to a gurney. Police Chief Pamela Smith, who assumed the job six weeks ago amid spiraling violent crimes rates, later admitted that the officers had not properly secured Haynes, providing an opportunity for his escape.

Levin said the Cavalcante manhunt also featured a steady trickle of new developments that increased public interest as the hunt dragged on. There were repeated Cavalcante sightings, along with reports that he had shaved his facial hair and stolen a van and at one point stole a rifle and was shot at by an area resident.

There was a new twist with virtually every news cycle. There were so many new twists that the public became fixated on whats coming next, Levin said. Whereas with this D.C. fellow, there havent been any new details where the stakes and intensity would grow with each news cycle.

Police in Washington couldnt say if he was armed.

Haynes escaped in the midst of a large city not far from a subway station. Police this week said that they had received multiple reports of possible sightings of Haynes. But other than the several-hour long shelter-in-place order for the GW campus on the day of his escape, there have been no other public signs of the pursuit.
A West Philadelphia man was found guilty by a Montgomery County jury in connection to the killing of his former girlfriend and her unborn baby Wednesday.

Now, he will face another trial to determine whether he will receive the death penalty, according to reports.

Rafiq Thompson, 40, was found guilty of two counts of first-degree murder and related crimes.

Thompson shot Tamara Cornelius, 31, who was four months pregnant. She was shot several times at close range at an Exxon station in King of Prussia last April, as she pumped gas. He was arrested after turning himself in to authorities.

Cornelius was a mother to three other children.

This was a chilling murder of a young woman and her unborn child, Montgomery County DA Kevin Steele said at the time to NBC10.

Regarding the timeline of events that led to Thompson killing Cornelius at the gas station, there were many texts and calls that resulted in the two meeting up briefly that evening before Cornelius went inside the Cheesecake Factory restaurant to eat dinner.

She left the restaurant a little over an hour later and was followed by Thompson as she headed to the gas station. As she pumped the gas, Thompson and Cornelius were said to have been arguing briefly.

Surveillance footage captured Thompson yelling at Cornelius while hiding a stolen Glock G19 handgun in his right hand before he raised the gun and opened fire. After being shot, Cornelius stumbled to get away as he continued to shoot her, eventually falling to the ground as Thompson stood over her, The Philadelphia Inquirer reported.

Cornelius was pronounced dead at Paoli Hospital 47 minutes after authorities responded to the gas station and found her bleeding, NBC10 reported.

Read more via The Philadelphia Inquirer.

More:
A driver armed with a handgun is accused of opening fire at another car while driving on Route 22 in Northampton County during the Tuesday afternoon commute.

Jesus Torres Gonzalez, 45, faces two counts each of attempted homicide and aggravated assault, both first-degree felonies, as well as a weapons charge.

Pennsylvania State Police were called about 4:45 p.m. to the highway between Routes 33 and 191 in Bethlehem Township. A driver and passenger told troopers they were headed westbound just past Route 33 when they were shot at.

The driver said he had merged left in front of Gonzalezs gray BMW; Gonzalez flipped him off then pulled alongside on the right and fired two rounds, according to the affidavit. Gunshot damage was found on the front passenger headlight and in the engine, troopers reported.

Gonzalez was stopped and arrested minutes later, four miles west on Route 22 near Schoenersville Road.

Gonzalez is being held at Northampton County Prison without bail due to the nature of the charges. Gonzalezs address is listed in court documents as Birmingham, Alabama. It was not clear if he had an attorney.

Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@lehighvalleylive.com.
By RANDALL CHASE, The Associated Press

DOVER, Del. (AP)  A Delaware woman who pleaded guilty to killing her 3-year-old daughter and dumping her burned remains on a softball field was sentenced Thursday to 30 years in prison.

Kristie Haas, 31, pleaded guilty this year to murder by abuse or neglect and abuse of a corpse in the death of Emma Grace Cole, who prosecutors say endured a life of starvation and torture before she was killed.

This undated photo released by the Delaware Department of Justice shows Kristie Haas. (Delaware Department of Justice via AP, file)AP

Im sorry for all the hurt that I inflicted and the pain that I caused, said Haas, who also pleaded guilty to three counts of endangering the welfare of a child for her mistreatment of Emmas half-siblings.

Haas faced a minimum mandatory prison term of 15 years, and a possible life sentence, but Superior Court Judge Noel Primos imposed the 30-year sentence that was recommended by prosecutors and defense attorneys.

I cannot presume to comprehend the grief and the anguish that Emmas family members here today have been put through because of Ms. Haas actions, Primos said. The judge agreed with prosecutors that Haas deserved more than the minimum sentence because of the excessive cruelty of her crime.

I knew everything was wrong, and I was so messed up because of everything I did, Haas told the judge, recalling the day she left her daughters corpse on a softball field in Smyrna. I thought I could get away with it, to be honest.

I wasnt OK then, Haas added, recalling her drug abuse, mental health issues and relationship with Emmas stepfather, Brandon Haas.  Im trying my best to be better than I was.

Brandon Haas, 41, was to be sentenced later Thursday after pleading guilty to one felony count and three misdemeanor counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

3-year-old Emma Cole (Smyrna Police Department/National Center for Missing and Exploited Children via AP, file)AP

Emmas body was found in September 2019 by a person walking a dog through a softball park near Smyrna Middle School in central Delaware. At the time, Emma lived with her parents and siblings less than a mile from the ball field. Authorities believe Emma had been dead for several weeks before her body was found.

Kristie and Brandon Haas were arrested in Pennsylvania in October 2020. Authorities say the couple withheld food and medical care from Emma and subjected her to torture or maltreatment, while also subjecting her and her siblings to excessive forced exercise and inappropriate physical discipline.

Prosecutor Kevin Smith said that after finding Emma unresponsive, Kristie Hass tried to revive her with a cold shower and stopped Brandon Haas from calling 911. Haas later threw away her daughters clothing, stating, Thats it for Emma. Emmas not coming back, Smith said.

Haas also lied to family members about Emmas absence after the killing, telling them the toddler, who Haas said had the devil in her eyes was in a facility for children with mental illness.

Before sentencing Haas, Primos heard from Emmas father, Joshua Douthitt, her great-aunt and former guardian, Tanya Conley, and Haas mother, Belinda Johnson.

I will never comprehend why Emma Grace had to lose her life, Douthitt said tearfully. I dont know what this beautiful little baby could have done to deserve this.

Smith read a letter submitted by Conley, who described Emma as a happy, healthy child who loved Paw Patrol, swimming, playing with cats, and being sung to at bedtime.

I hate Kristie, and I hope whatever time she gets is miserable for her, Conley also wrote. I hope she burns in hell where she belongs.

Defense attorney Patrick Collins said that while it is easy to paint Haas as a monster, her own life has been a nonstop disaster since childhood. Collins said Haas was abused and abandoned as a child, subjected to extreme poverty, abused by intimate partners, and suffered from mental illness. The true monster he suggested, was drug addiction, adding that she and Brandon Haas were addicted to methamphetamine.

Kristie wanted to be a mother, but she wasnt honest with herself that she was very ill equipped to be a mother, Collins said.
By Patrick Varine, Tribune-Review, Greensburg, Pa. (TNS)

Brooke Smith hasnt been back to the unassuming house on Circle Street in Perryopolis, Pa., since her rescue there by the FBI in the early 90s.

OK, technically it was the fictional Catherine Martin rescued from a well in the horrifying basement of serial killer Buffalo Bill, during the seminal 1991 horror film The Silence of the Lambs.

But Smith, who portrayed Martin, is still a little freaked out at the prospect of going back this month.

I feel like this would be a really good set-up for a new film  you ask the former horror actress to go back to the house one more time, and then bam  you get her again! Smith said with a laugh.

Smith will take part in a weekend of VIP photo opportunities and house tours Sept. 22-24 at Buffalo Bills House, bought by New York City art director and prop stylist Chris Rowan and transformed into an overnight experience and a tribute to the film over the past few years.

As a young actor out of New York City in the late 1980s, Smith was overjoyed at being cast by director Jonathan Demme. She was a little less excited to find out that Buffalo Bill was picking plus-size victims.

It was 1990, and you were supposed to be thin as an actress, so Id just lost a bunch of weight and, of course, the first major role I get, I had to gain 25 pounds, she said.

Actress Brooke Smith in 2015. (Photo by Paul A. Hebert/Invision/AP, file)Paul A. Hebert/Invision/AP

Smith would go on to play Catherine Martin, the plucky daughter of a U.S. senator who is kidnapped by Buffalo Bill and held hostage at his Ohio home. The actual house, a beautiful 1910 Victorian, is in Fayette County, and its got some features that were missing the last time Smith was on set.

Scenes involving Bills basement  where he kept Catherine Martin at the bottom of a well  were filmed on a Pittsburgh-area soundstage. But Rowan wasnt going to have Buffalo Bills house without a well. Working with legendary Pittsburgh make-up and special-effects artist Tom Savini, Rowan set out to create Bills basement workshop and all its creepy accoutrements, including the well, where Smith will don her Catherine Martin costume to meet fans and snap photos.

I think itll be really cool to go back and revisit it all, she said.

In addition to her breakout role in the film, Smith has more than 80 film and television credits on her resume. But most of her co-stars have a tough time comparing with Buffalo Bill. Smith said that despite the characters uniquely scary nature, she wasnt frightened at all by actor Ted Levines portrayal of a psychopathic man who is sewing himself a dress made of real womens skin.

I spent all my time with him, and I think maybe it was overcompensation for the intense scenes we did together, Smith said. I remember Jodie Foster saying that as well.

Fans hoping to attend the late-September weekend can purchase opportunities for a meet-and-greet, signed autographs an a VIP experience at the well.

Rowan said he cant wait.

It is a film enthusiasts dream come true to have Brooke Smith return to Buffalo Bills House for the very first time since shooting the film on location over 30 years ago, he said. As huge cinephiles ourselves, we know this ultra-exclusive, intimate experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Smith is pretty sure she is looking forward to it, but wasnt certain what might happen when she sees the well for the first time.

Hopefully, I wont get triggered, she said with a laugh. Im also curious to see if the neighborhood still looks the way I remember.

More:

The nations most haunted house is a century-old Pa. mansion

Mermaids in the Susquehanna River? Yes, fishermen once claimed


Yet another iconic New Jersey diner has closed for good.

The Red Lion Diner, at 1753 Route 206 in Southampton Township, announced its abrupt closure in a Facebook post on Sept. 9.

Dear Beloved Customers, With a heavy heart we must inform you that the Red Lion Diner has sold. We will not be opening again, the post read. We appreciate all the support and patronage throughout the years. It was a difficult decision however we chose what was best for our families.

A&B Development Group, the sites new owners, are planning to replace the diner with a Wawa. The Red Lion Diner opened in 1973.

Efthimios Paul Tsiknakis and his family have owned the diner for the last five and a half years. Tsiknakis also owns Monarch Diner in Glassboro, N.J., and Marblehead Chowder House in Westampton and Easton, Pennsylvania.

The owners sold the diners iconic lion statue to Red Lion Metals, a nearby metal company that plans to preserve it.

I wanted to keep the Red Lion statue thats in front of the diner locally. A nice family that owns Red Lion Metals down the street purchased the lion and theyre going to put it out front and continue the story of Leo the Lion, Tsiknakis said.

Christopher Burch can be reached at cburch@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter: @ChrisBurch856.

More:

Your Place to close another central Pa. restaurant

Greek restaurant in Dauphin County is relocating
By MARK THIESSEN, The Associated Press

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP)  U.S. Rep. Mary Peltolas husband has died in an airplane crash in western Alaska, the latest fatality involving politicians or their loved ones in the nations largest state where flights are common because of a limited road system.

We are devastated to share that Marys husband, Eugene Peltola Jr.  Buzzy to all of us who knew and loved him  passed away earlier this morning following a plane accident in Alaska, her chief of staff, Anton McParland, said in the statement issued Wednesday morning.

Peltola, a Yupik who became the first Alaska Native elected to Congress last year, was returning home to be with her family, the statement said. McParland asked that the family be allowed privacy to grieve.

The Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub appears to have crashed under unknown circumstances upon takeoff after he dropped off a hunter and equipment about 65 miles northeast of St. Marys, National Transportation Safety Board chairperson Jennifer Homendy said during a news conference.

Alaska State Troopers identified Peltola, 57, as the pilot and planes sole occupant in a statement. Two hunters who were at the scene but not involved in the crash provided medical care to Peltola.

The Alaska Rescue Coordination Center dispatched an Alaska Air National Guard rescue team to the site, arriving early Wednesday morning, but troopers said Peltola had died before they arrived.

The rescue team returned Peltola and the hunters to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage. Peltolas body was delivered to the State Medical Examiners Office for an autopsy.

Homendy described the crash site area about 450 miles west of Anchorage as a remote location, a mountainous area. She said interviewing the witnesses to the crash would be part of the investigation.

It was not immediately known where the plane took off from or where it was headed before the crash, she said.

The Alaska Rescue Coordination Center received an emergency locator transmitter signal at 8:48 p.m. Tuesday, 18 minutes after sunset, Homendy said.

Peltola received his commercial pilots license in 2004, requiring him to use corrective lenses at all distances, according to a Federal Aviation Administration database. The planes FAA registry shows the Super Cub was manufactured in 1952 and Bruce Werba of Holy Cross, Alaska, is the owner.

Werba and his wife, Connie, own Alaska Pike Safaris and Wilderness Adventures, which offers trophy brown bear and moose hunts and pike fishing in western Alaska. Connie Werba declined comment to The Associated Press when reached by phone Wednesday.

Condolence poured in for Peltola, a former Alaska regional director for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, a longtime employee of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, a city council member in Bethel and an Alaska Native leader.

In a statement late Wednesday, President Joe Biden said he had spoken with Mary Peltola and expressed condolences.

Buzzy was a devoted public servant and in the tributes coming from all over the state today, he is being remembered as a friend to all, Biden said. But we know he was, first and always, the adored and devoted husband and father to a family now in pain.

Mary Peltola last year became the first Alaska Native in Congress by defeating former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, the 2008 Republican vice-presidential nominee, in ranked vote special and general elections following the death of U.S. Rep. Don Young. The Republican Young had held Alaskas sole House seat for 49 years until his death.

Several prominent Alaska politicians have died in plane crashes, including former U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens in 2010 and one of Peltolas predecessors, U.S. Rep. Nick Begich, a Democrat. Begich and U.S. Rep. Hale Boggs of Louisiana, the majority leader in the U.S. House, were presumed dead after their plane went missing while flying from Anchorage to Juneau in 1972.

State Rep. Gary Knopp died in a mid-air collision in 2020. Stevens first wife, Ann, died in a plane crash in Anchorage in 1978.
Black-necked cranes fly in Lhunzhub County of Lhasa, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, Jan. 9, 2022. (Xinhua/Zhang Rufeng)

LHASA, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Upon graduation from university, Yang Le signed up for a volunteer program to aid the development of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. He initially intended to broaden his horizons and gain some work experience, but he became engrossed in the program's environmental work and wound up staying for 18 years.

Yang, 41, is now deputy director of Tibet Plateau Institute of Biology. The intense sunlight on the plateau has turned his skin a darker shade, while his cheeks are rosy due to the high altitude.

Though hailing from central China's Hunan Province, he has dedicated most of his time to biological research and environmental protection on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, also known as the "roof of the world." He has paid particular attention to the black-necked crane, a species under first-class state protection in China.

"My teacher at university once told me that there was much work to be done in this vast world, offering plenty of scope for developing my skills. He said Tibet was a land in need of development, so I decided to come here," Yang said.

With a university education in biology and a keen interest in wildlife, Yang found Tibet the ideal place to put his talents to use.

Black-necked cranes sport at a field in Lhunzhub County of Lhasa, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, Jan. 8, 2022. (Xinhua/Zhang Rufeng)

Over the past two decades, he has visited all the 74 counties across Tibet to observe the habitats and migration paths of the black-necked crane, helping to protect the endangered species.

"The black-necked crane is a flagship species in Tibet, and its protection is quite important for the local ecosystem," he said.

Having spent so long observing the rare cranes, Yang has developed a special affection for the species.

"They are just like my own kids. A male black-necked crane only has one mate during its whole life. And watching them get married, have babies and migrate safely makes me happy," Yang said.

Over the years, Yang has come up with multiple suggestions on how to improve the protection of the species. These include the establishment of nature reserves and building infrastructure to support the cranes in their habitats, aiming to strike a balance between human activities and ecological preservation.

Black-necked cranes fly in Lhunzhub County of Lhasa, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, Jan. 8, 2022. (Xinhua/Huang Huo)

Thanks to the efforts of Yang and his colleagues, over 70 black-necked crane observation areas have been established in Tibet. The population of the species has gradually increased over the years, rising from under 3,000 in 1995 to over 10,000 now.

The local Tibetan people are very fond of the black-necked crane, which they often call the "fairy crane," "divine bird" or "auspicious bird."

Yang has managed to motivate more local residents to join his cause. In Lhunzhub, a county located near the mid-reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River and a core protection area for the black-necked cranes, wildlife rangers and local people have reached a consensus on helping the endangered wild animal wherever they can.

"Nature is always the guiding principle," said Yang. "I will stay on here, continuing to seek more value from life."

Editor: GSY
The Chambersburg Police Department charged a Pennsylvania state constable with more than 700 criminal offenses in relation to human trafficking and sex crimes Wednesday.

Pennsylvania Constable Timothy Raye Heefner, 64, was part of a two-year investigation by the Chambersburg Police Department and the Franklin County District Attorneys Office, according to a police report.

Court documents list Heefners home as Chambersburg.

A Pennsylvania Constable is being charged with over 700 offenses stemming from a multi-year investigation in Franklin County.

The original report came to the Chambersburg Police Department in July 2021 and was presented to the Franklin County Investigative Grand Jury in January 2023. Investigators requested the charges be formally presented to a court on Sept. 8, 2023.

Heefner is being charged with the following 704 offenses, according to court documents:

58 counts of trafficking in individuals

58 counts of involuntary servitude - controlled substance

58 counts of criminal use of a communication facility

58 counts of prostitution and related offenses

58 counts of patronizing prostitution

58 counts of official oppression

58 counts of engaging in sexual conduct/nudity

41 counts of criminal attempt to commit involuntary servitude - controlled substance

41 counts of criminal attempt to commit trafficking in individuals

41 counts of criminal attempt to commit criminal use of a communication facility

41 counts of criminal attempt to commit prostitution and related offenses

41 counts of criminal attempt to commit official oppression

41 counts of criminal attempt to commit patronizing prostitutes

41 counts of criminal attempt to commit sexual extortion

One count of rape by forcible compulsion

One count of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse

One count of sexual assault

One count of corruption of minors

One count of indecent assault without consent of other

One count of indecent assault forcible compulsion

One count of indecent assault threat forcible compulsion

One count of indecent exposure

One count of corruption of minors - defendant age 18 or above

One count of sexual offenses

One count of unlawful contact with a minor - prostitution

Heefner is currently being held in the Franklin County Jail on $1.25 million bail.

The investigation is still active and police are requesting anyone who was victimized by Heefner to contact the Chambersburg Police Department or submit a Crime Watch Tip.

READ MORE:

Say hello to Yoda, the K9 who played critical role in capture of escaped Pa. killer: report

Ellen Greenbergs parents lose court case to overturn ruling of suicide in her death: Beyond tears
It appears the Halloween parade in Newville is going to take place after all.

The Newville Historical Society posted Wednesday night on Facebook that WERE TAKING ON THE HALLOWEEN PARADE! There will be a PARADE! Follow us for info!!

This comes one week after the Newville Community Action Committee, the organization that has run the parade for decades, submitted a letter to the borough notifying officials that it had disbanded.

Borough president Scott Penner didnt know for sure why the group broke up but said that getting volunteers and support from the community at times has been difficult.

Officials said last week that another group would have to take charge of the parade in order for to it to occur this year and they would need to speak up soon, ahead of the next borough council meeting on Sept. 26.

Thats the last opportunity the council would have to approve street closings and apply for permits from the state to shut down state roads to accommodate the parade.

More:

Pennsylvanias top 5 favorite board games are these: study

Pennsylvanias skies lit up this week thanks to rare comet
David McCormick, the former hedge fund CEO who narrowly lost a GOP primary race for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania last year, is expected to launch a widely anticipated second try in the coming weeks, according a story posted to the Reuters website Wednesday.

The news service cited two sources it said have confirmed McCormick will announce his candidacy for the 2024 race later this month.

McCormick aides had not responded to PennLives request for comment on the report for this post.

If he is successful in the Republican primary - and at the moment state Republican leaders are working assiduously to clear the field for him - McCormick will face a formidable challenge in taking on three-term incumbent Democratic Sen. Robert P. Casey Jr., who announced his own re-election bid earlier this summer.

McCormicks entry into the race has long been anticipated, and even encouraged, by a Republican Party establishment eager to avoid the fractious primaries that some believe left the party with two hard-to-elect candidates at the top of the 2022 ticket.

In the Senate race, while former President Donald J. Trumps endorsement may have carried Dr. Mehmet Oz to a narrow win in the 2022 primary, Ozs short-term residence in Pennsylvania left him an easy target for social media mockery by his Democratic opponent John Fetterman.

McCormick, too, has spent years in Connecticut as the former CEO of Bridgewater Associates.

But his Pennsylvania roots are deeper, including growing up in Bloomsburg, and launching a successful online auction business in Pittsburgh after U.S. Army service. His father, James McCormick, was the first chancellor of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.

All that has allowed him to characterize his return as more of a homecoming.

And now, McCormicks on the precipice of his second statewide campaign.

Just last week, 98 Republican leaders from across the state signed onto a letter urging McCormick to jump into the 2024 race, citing the likely importance the swing state seat will play in deciding majority control of the U.S. Senate, which Democrats and allied independents currently hold a 51-49 edge.

In their memo addressed to McCormick, the group - including State Chairman Lawrence Tabas, former Gov. Tom Corbett, state Treasurer Stacy Garrity, 37 county party chairs, and a battery of elected officials - stated we can think of no one better suited to serve the Commonwealth in the U.S. Senate, and urge you to run.

Washington-based Republicans, meanwhile, are also focused on McCormick as part of their efforts to line up high-quality candidates for next years elections after a number of untested candidates with fringe views cost them seats in 2022, the Reuters report noted.

The national Republicans believe McCormick is moderate enough to appeal to suburbanites and stable enough to help other candidates on the ticket.

McCormick will make his formal announcement in Pittsburgh before the end of the month, Reuters reported its sources said.
Danelo Cavalcante survived on watermelon and used several tactics to avoid detection after the nearly two-week-long search came to an end Wednesday.

Investigators say Cavalcante had no help after escaping the Chester County Prison and relied on stream water and a watermelon patch for sustenance, according to 6abc Action News.

Cavalcante also told authorities that police almost stepped on him during the search efforts, and he covered his fecal matter to make his trail harder to trace.

Law enforcement officials were able to locate Cavalcante after bringing in a plane with thermal imaging capabilities that allowed ground teams to surround him with search dogs, the story says.

They were able to move in very quietly. They had the element of surprise. Cavalcante did not realize he was surrounded until that had occurred, Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens said at a news conference.

Cavalcante, who still had a stolen .22 rifle, reportedly tried to escape by crawling through some underbrush before a search dog named Yoda subdued him around 8 a.m.

The bloodied Cavalcante resisted law enforcement, according to police, but was eventually taken to the Pennsylvania State Polices Avondale barracks around 9:30 a.m.

Cavalcante was arraigned for an escape charge at the Avondale barracks, according to Judge Matthew Seaveys office.

The 34-year-old did not say anything to reporters as he walked to his transport to SCI Phoenix, the story says.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Sept. 27.

The prison guard who was on duty during Cavalcantes escape was fired, and the prison was not aware of the escape until a headcount took place an hour later, according to the story.

READ MORE:

Escaped Pa. killer processed into Pa. Department of Corrections: photo

A fire company, the FBI, and third-graders: Here are some of the people who aided the search for a killer
A 66-year-old man who has been wanted for five years has been arrested on homicide charges in connection to a 2009 Lancaster homicide case.

Carl Lamont Hunter was found in the Dominican Republic and arrested, before being extradited back to Lancaster County on charges he killed Michael Evans in 2009, according to Lancaster County Crimestoppers.

Police arrived on the 400 block of West Lemon Street December 18, 2009 and found Evans with a stab wound on his torso. First responders took Evans to a nearby hospital, where he died, the countys Crimestoppers said.

Police originally issued a warrant for Hunter in 2018 on homicide charges. Hunter previously had a warrant for his arrest for a drug charge stemming from 2009, but he was never apprehended, according to Crimestoppers.

An online docket has not yet been entered for the case.

READ MORE:

Fugitive evades police in Camp Hill, leading to school lockdowns

This area code is the top reported in Pa. for scams: study

Shapiro salutes work of police, residents in Pa. prison escapee manhunt: Im proud of them
In a national television spot Thursday, Gov. Josh Shapiro expressed pride in police execution of the manhunt that led to Wednesdays capture of convicted killer Danelo Cavalcante in Chester County, as well as gratitude for the patience and grace with which residents handled the extended emergency.

Im incredibly proud of the PSP and Im incredibly grateful to the good people of Chester County who every single day remained vigilant, who worked hard to make sure that we were able to capture this suspect without incident, Shapiro said in an interview on NBCs Today show.

There was no loss of life. There was no threat in the community, thank God. And ultimately at the end of the day we found ourselves in the position of seeing the best in law enforcement. Law enforcement at every level - state, local and federal - coming together to apprehend this suspect, to capture him without incident.

Im proud of them, Shapiro said.

Cavalcante, 34, escaped Aug. 31 from Chester County Prison, where he was awaiting transfer to a state prison after an August conviction for the 2021 killing of his ex-girlfriend, Deborah Brandao. He is also wanted on charges stemming from a 2017 homicide in his home country of Brazil.

The fugitive was hiding under thick brush when Pennsylvania State Police took him by surprise in a Chester County field in South Coventry Township Wednesday morning, resulting in an abrupt conclusion to a nearly two-week manhunt.

As troopers and border patrol officers approached, Cavalcante  armed with a stolen rifle and wearing a Philadelphia Eagles shirt  tried to crawl through the undergrowth to once again escape. A Customs and Border Patrol dog was released and bit Cavalcantes scalp, helping troopers take him into custody, police said.

Appearing with Shapiro, Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Christopher Paris praised police Thursday for their restraint and residents for their cooperation - including dozens of real-time tips on Calvacantes whereabouts - in helping bring the entire episode, while nerve-wracking, to a safe conclusion with no shots fired.

Our concern always was the threat to public safety, and were indebted to the people of Chester County, Paris said. He had a weapon. It was a weapon that could have certainly hurt law enforcement but more importantly than that, it could have hurt members of the public.

So a desperate person on the run with nothing to lose, facing life without parole? That was our chief concern. We wanted to find him wherever we could.

Paris and Shapiro also worked to defuse a potential controversy over team photos taken after the capture of the officers participating in the last chapters of the search surrounding Cavalcante, like big game hunters with their quarry.

You have top put it in proper context, Paris said, when asked about the appropriateness of the photo during the Today segment.

These tactical operators surrounded him and sat through a lightning and thunderstorm through the evening when we lost the aerial overwatch, and this was an individual who was crawling towards a weapon which he stole.

And the professional restraint that they showed in being able to take him alive and in relatively good health - were very proud of that professionalism, Paris said.

Shapiro, as the states top civil officer, seconded the commissioners view.

Look, Im proud of them, and theyre proud of their work, Shapiro said.

I think its important that we acknowledge that for 14 days, law enforcement from every level left their homes, their loved ones, and they put their lives at risk... I think its important for everybody to understand that the gun that Cavalcante had literally was capable of piercing the bullet-proof vests that they were wearing.

They put their lives at risk every day. They were proud of their work, and Im incredibly proud of them, Shapiro said.

Brazilian police allege Cavalcante killed Valter Junior Moreira dos Reis in 2017 over a vehicle-repair debt Moreira dos Reis owed him. But before Brazilian authorities could apprehend him, Cavalcante fled to Puerto Rico, BBC reported. A warrant for his arrest was issued in Brazil in June 2018.

Cavalcante was arrested in April 2021 after stabbing Brandao more than a dozen times in the chest and upper torso in front of her 7-year-old daughter and 3-year-old son. Prosecutors say he wanted to stop her from telling police he was wanted in the Brazilian case.

Cavalcante was arrested in Virginia as he was trying to flee to Mexico to then return to Brazil. He was convicted of first-degree murder on Aug. 16 and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Janelle Stelson, evening news anchor for WGAL News 8 and one of the capital regions longest-tenured television news personalities, announced on air Thursday she will be leaving the air at the end of this week to pursue other interests.

I am going to step away from the news, Stelson said at the close of Thursdays 5:30 p.m. broadcast. After nearly 40 years as a journalist, 26 of them here at WGAL, tomorrow night is going to be my last newscast.

Stelson, 63, did not speak to her future plan plans specifically.

But the news anchor has been the subject of recent media speculation that she is considering a bid for Pennsylvanias 10th Congressional District seat, currently held by U.S. Rep. Scott Perry.

The first report of Stelsons interest in the seat was reported by the The Philadelphia Inquirers Clout column in late August. At that time, she gave the news outlet an emailed response that stated in part:

In the past more than three decades that Ive been a journalist in Central PA, Ive had quite a few people ask if I would be interested in running for office ... so Im not surprised you would hear something like that. And Im honored folks would mention my name.

PennLive reached out to both Stelson, who has been with WGAL since 1997, and WGAL executives for further comment on the situation Thursday.

Stelson had not responded by publication of this post, but Cindy DeLuca, WGALs president and general manager, said in an email:

We are very appreciative of Janelles 26 years with WGAL and her work in the communities we serve across the Susquehanna Valley... She has shared that this was a very difficult decision and certainly not a decision made precipitously.

According to public records, Stelson does not live in the 10th District, comprised of Dauphin County and parts of Cumberland and York counties.

That would not be a legal disqualifier to making the 2024 race. The only residency requirement for members of Congress is that they reside in the state from which they are elected. Stelson, who lives in Lancaster County, fits that bill.

Pennsylvanias 11th District, anchored in Lancaster County, is a much less politically competitive district based on recent state and national election results.

The 10th, meanwhile, is consistently one of the most competitive House districts in the state, and the entirety of the district is within WGALs coverage area, so in that sense Stelson could legitimately argue that she has roots in the community.

A native of the Seattle, Wash. region, Stelson is a graduate of the University at Puget Sound. Her journalism career began at WHTM-TV in Harrisburg, the local ABC affiliate, as a reporter and weather anchor. She has also done stints with the CBS News 21 and WITF.

Democrats are clearly interested in trying to mount a strong challenge to Perry, who emerged in the weeks after the 2020 presidential election as one of the leading Congressional cheerleaders for former President Donald Trumps efforts to challenge Joe Bidens win.

Already declared for the 10ths Democratic primary race for 2024 are 2022 nominee Shamaine Daniels, a Harrisburg city council member, Rick Coplen, a retired Army officer who currently serves on the Carlisle School Board, and Mike OBrien, a recently retired Marine aviator.

According to Lancaster County voter registration records, Stelson was registered as a Republican Party voter there through 2022, and changed her registration to Democratic earlier this year.
Dauphin County is planning multiple efforts to address the crisis that resulted in nine overdose deaths, including expanding access to treatment and providing lifesaving medical supplies.

The goal, they said, is to help people who use drugs stay alive and reduce stigma that might keep people out of recovery.

Commissioner George Hartwick said Thursday that the county is expected to use portions of the roughly $1.1 million it will receive as part of the states settlement with the pharmaceutical companies behind the influx prescriptions opioids in the 1990s and early 2000s to provide harm-reduction supplies to people who need them.

The announcement came during a taping of a town hall discussion that will air at 7 p.m. Friday on WHBG-TV 20 that was prompted by a rash of overdoses that have resulted in nine deaths since late last week.

Ultimately, we want to figure out a way to provide some level of support to folks so they can live to fight another day, Hartwick said.

All nine people were over 55 years old, according Deputy Coroner Thomas Reinhard.

While investigating into the overdoses is still ongoing, police have said they believe the latest string of overdoses are attributed to people using cocaine who were unaware it may have been contaminated with fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid.

Fentanyl is now found in most illicit drug markets across the United States and is the latest iteration of an opioid supply that has continually been getting more and more potent since the initial wave of prescription drugs, like oxycontin, and the subsequent legal crackdowns.

Hartwick said the county intends to purchase two vending machines that will carry supplies that people who use drugs need, such as wound-care kits, Narcan  the opioid-overdose reversing drug  and fentanyl testing strips.

One machine is expected to be placed the emergency room at UPMC Harrisburg and another is planned for somewhere in northern Dauphin County. A date has not been set for when those machines will be installed.

The older generation thinks, why would you give these people anything? Let them be in the position they are in, Hartwick said. I believe that attitude is wrong and I believe we have a responsibility to save lives.

Along with the vending machines, Dauphin County spokesperson Jennifer Fitch told PennLive that the county was using money to expand access to treatment through added providers and services and to purchase more fentanyl test strips.

Fentanyl test strips, which allow people who use drugs to see if their supply contains fentanyl, were legalized in Pennsylvania late last year but are still not readily available.

Neither CVS or Rite Aid carry the test strips and Fitch said the county only has a limited supply.

Anyone in need can reach out to the Rase Project in the 100 block of North Cameron Street in Harrisburg or at Just for Today Veterans Services on Market Street in Lemoyne.

Both groups also provide Narcan.

Fentanyl test strips and Narcan are also available for free through non-profit organizations like NextDistro. Test strips can also be purchased through outlets like Amazon and Narcan is available at Harrisburg Public Safety Building in the 100 block of Market Street in Harrisburg and through most major pharmacies.

Dauphin County Director of Drug and Alcohol Services Kristin Varner said Thursday that people need to be cautious when using fentanyl trips and to follow the directions to properly test the drugs to avoid a false negative result.

Varner also stressed the need to not use drugs alone. Research has found that most opioid overdoses are reversable if the person receive care quickly enough. Having someone on hand, especially if they have access to Narcan, can be the difference between life and death, according to Varner.

Anyone who is seeking drug or alcohol treatment services can contact the county by calling 717-635-2254. The line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Theres always someone there to talk, if they need help, she said.

READ MORE:

Fentanyl test strips are legal but that doesnt mean they are readily available

Rite Aid now selling overdose antidote Narcan nasal spray over-the-counter

Tranq dope turning up in central Pa., hindering overdose reversal, causing rotting flesh wounds
WILLIAMSPORT  A man who is currently an inmate in a county prison in another case has admitted stealing pieces of heavy equipment out of state and then selling them in Pennsylvania.

Joseph John Waldron III, 64, pleaded guilty Wednesday in U.S. Middle District Court to a charge of interstate transportation of stolen goods.

The charge to which he pleaded guilty involved seven pieces of equipment but Assistant U.S. Attorney Alisan V. Martin said the total loss was $688,000.

Assistant public defender Thomas Thorton explained that his client was responsible for the theft of additional equipment for which he would have to make restitution.

The charge to which Waldron pleaded guilty involved this equipment that was all stolen in 2021:

John Deere tractor and mower were stolen Aug. 14 in Big Flats. New York, and delivered to addresses in Morris, Tioga County, and Warminster, Bucks County, respectively.

Kubota excavator was stolen on Oct. 23 in Pennington, New Jersey, and delivered to a Huntingdon Valley address.

Kubota backhoe and a trailer were stolen on Oct. 29, in New Castle, Delaware, and delivered to the same address in Coopersburg, Lehigh County.

Kubota Zero Turn mower and an Exmark Zero Turn mower were stolen on Dec. 4 from Westminster, Maryland, and both were delivered to an address in Perkasie, Bucks County.

Waldron, who was detained on the federal charge, is awaiting trial in Berks County on charges of theft, receiving stolen property and unauthorized use of a vehicle.

More:

Victim in excessive force, civil rights criminal case sues 4 cops, Pa. borough

Repeat child pornography offender in Pa. gets 15-year federal sentence
A Penn State University student was killed Tuesday when she was hit by a vehicle by a fellow PSU student, State College police said in a press release.

At approximately 8 p.m., a vehicle that was driven by a 20-year-old PSU student was headed westbound on East Park Avenue when it crossed through the oncoming traffic lane, leaving the road. The vehicle then hit a 25-year-old woman who was jogging on the sidewalk.

The woman was transported to Mount Nittany Medical Center and then the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Altoona, but died of her injuries.

Neither alcohol nor drug use was believed to be a factor in the crash, according to police.

Authorities are investigating and are asking for anyone with information to contact the State College Police Department at 814-234-7150 or via an anonymous tip online.

More:
* Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with his Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday.

* The two presidents announced the elevation of the China-Venezuela relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership.

* Maduro said Venezuela is willing to learn from China's experience in building special economic zones and deepen practical cooperation in agriculture, investment, education, and tourism.

BEIJING, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with his Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday.

The two presidents announced the elevation of the China-Venezuela relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro Moros at the square outside the east entrance of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. Xi held talks with Maduro, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Ding Lin)

ALL-WEATHER STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

Xi said China and Venezuela are good friends who trust each other and good partners for common development, hailing the ironclad friendship forged amid the ever-changing international landscape.

"China has always viewed its relations with Venezuela from a strategic and long-term perspective, and firmly supports Venezuela's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, national dignity and social stability, as well as Venezuela's just cause of opposing external interference," Xi told Maduro.

"The establishment of an all-weather strategic partnership between China and Venezuela meets the common expectations of the two peoples and conforms to the general trend of historical development," Xi said, calling on the two sides to push for more fruitful China-Venezuela strategic cooperation, bring more benefits to the two peoples and inject more positive energy into world peace and development.

Maduro said Venezuela and China enjoy profound friendship and fruitful cooperation, making bilateral relations a model for relations among countries of the Global South. He said the Venezuelan people thank the Chinese government and people for their valuable support and assistance when Venezuela was suffering from illegal unilateral sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Maduro said Venezuela's national development and Venezuela-China relations are at a significant stage. "The establishment of an all-weather strategic partnership is of historic significance and will surely usher in a new era of bilateral relations."

Sun Yanfeng, Deputy Director of the Institute of Latin American Studies, China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, noted that Venezuela is the first Latin American country that China established an all-weather strategic partnership with.

"The upgraded relationship means increased political trust, strategic need of each other, and high-level cooperation between the two sides. It also means they will surely expand cooperation in multilateral frameworks and, therefore, contribute to building a fair and just international order," Sun said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

CHINA CHARISMA

Xi spoke about China's reform and opening up, especially the development of special economic zones, and noted that reform and opening up is an important instrument for China to catch up with the times in great strides and a crucial move in making China what it is today.

"China cherishes the valuable experience gained in this process and will continue to push forward reform and opening up. No force can stop China's development and progress," Xi said.

Xi said China stands ready to work with Venezuela to firmly support each other in exploring a development path suited to their national conditions and strengthen Party and national governance exchanges. He said China supports Venezuela in setting up special economic zones and will share relevant experience to help its national development.

Maduro said Venezuela is willing to learn from China's experience in building special economic zones and deepen practical cooperation in agriculture, investment, education, and tourism.

Maduro said Venezuela supports the joint construction of the Belt and Road. The Venezuelan side also supports the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by Xi.

The Venezuelan president said China has become a great country committed to peace, development, and well-being of humanity and a vital engine for promoting a new multi-polar world. He added that everything he has seen and heard during his visit demonstrates China's progress and strength.

Maduro started his week-long China visit in Shenzhen, a reform pioneer where one of China's first special economic zones was established in 1980. There, the Venezuelan president experienced firsthand the achievements of China's reform and opening-up.

If Venezuela can establish Venezuelan-style special zones to attract capital, technology, and management expertise, it will greatly promote Venezuela's development, as Venezuela's economy has been under pressure due to domestic political factors, U.S. sanctions, and COVID-19, said Song Junying. Song is the director of the Department for Latin American and Caribbean Studies at the China Institute of International Studies.

"Whether it is the Belt and Road Initiative or the other three initiatives, China regards other countries as equal partners, fundamentally different from the initiatives put forward by other non-regional powers in history. Therefore, Latin American countries, including Venezuela, have embraced the Chinese initiatives," Song said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

EXPANDING COOPERATION

Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Venezuela. China is ready to strengthen people-to-people exchanges with Venezuela, support the development of Chinese language teaching Confucius institutes in Venezuela, and strengthen media exchanges, Xi said.

He called on the two sides to implement the outcomes of the 17th meeting of the Mixed Venezuela-China High-Level Committee and strengthen practical cooperation in various fields in the next stage.

Xi said China is willing to import more high-quality Venezuelan products and congratulated Venezuela on becoming the first country in the Americas to join the China-initiated cooperation on the International Lunar Research Station.

The two sides should work closely in multilateral mechanisms, including the United Nations, The Group of 77 (G77) and China, strengthen solidarity and cooperation with other developing countries, and jointly safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the common interests of developing countries, the Chinese president said.

Noting China attaches great importance to the development of China-Latin America relations and next year will mark the 10th anniversary of the China-CELAC Forum, Xi said China is ready to work with Venezuela and other countries in the region to promote China-Latin America cooperation and build a community with a shared future.

For his part, Maduro said Venezuela stands ready to strengthen communication and cooperation with China within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations and the BRICS mechanism, safeguard multilateralism and the legitimate interests of developing countries, promote building a community with a shared future for humanity, and play a positive role in promoting the development of CELAC relations with China.

After the talks, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of a number of bilateral cooperation documents in the fields of jointly building the Belt and Road, economy and trade, education, tourism, science and technology, health, aerospace, and civil aviation.

Editor: GSY
Hundreds of people worked tirelessly to find and arrest Danelo Cavalcante after he escaped the Chester County Prison two weeks ago, but one K9 officer made the final move, ending the search Wednesday morning.

Yoda, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois, serves with the U.S. Border Patrol Border Patrol Tactical K9 unit, which was assisting authorities in their search for Cavalcante, according to 6abc Action News.

Police set up the final perimeter around Cavalcante  in rural Chester County  after a plane picked up his heat signature with special imagery equipment, the story says.

Yoda was able to subdue Cavalcante by biting his scalp and clamping down on his thigh after he refused to obey officers orders, according to police.

That is when Cavalcante gave up and stopped running, the story says.

K9s play a very important role not only for tracking but also for, in a circumstance like this, safely capturing someone, said Lt. Col. George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police. [Its] far better that were able to release a patrol dog like this and have them subdue the individual than have to use lethal force.

Police say Yoda was crucial in preventing Cavalcante from using the .22 caliber rifle he had stolen.

READ MORE:

Escaped Pa. killer survived on watermelon, was nearly caught during manhunt: report

A fire company, the FBI, and third-graders: Here are some of the people who aided the search for a killer
Police are investigating the deaths of a man and woman following a standoff Wednesday in Dover Township, York County.

Northern York County Regional Police Chief David Lash said police entered the home when they heard a gunshot inside the 4100 block of Strawbridge Court at about 2:25 p.m. after an hours-long standoff, according to The York Daily Record.

They found an unidentified adult female dead on the landing between the second and third floors and the adult male suffering from a self-inflicted gunshot on the third floor of the townhouse, according to the story.

No names were released, although the coroner said the male was 31 years old and the female was 29 years old.

The man died before EMS arrived, the story said. No names of the victims have been released. Assuming this is a murder-suicide, its the second one that has occurred in the county in the past 24 hours.

Police responded to Strawbridge Court near Nittany Drive after a shooting that was first reported around 8:35 a.m., said Ted Czech, public information officer for the York County Office of Emergency Management.

Czech said EMS and York City Fire and Rescue services also responded to the scene.

Several nearby roads were closed amid the investigation, including South Salem Church Road, Canal Road and Strawbridge Court, according to reports.

An alert was sent today about a police incident in the area of Strawbridge and Majestic cts in Dover Township. The alert was intended for residents w/in a half-mile radius of the incident. Residents outside of it may disregard, although they should stay clear of the area. pic.twitter.com/MMmz2XjNg8  York County PA Office of Emergency Management (@YCOEM) September 13, 2023

At about 9 a.m., the township issued an alert asking people in the area of Nittany Drive and Strawbridge Court to shelter in place until further notice. Dover Area School District responded by instituting a Keep Out condition, under which no one would be permitted to enter or leave the building except at the direction of law enforcement.

Information on the townships Facebook page indicated the police incident ended around 3:30 p.m.

More:

A fire company, the FBI, and third-graders: Here are some of the people who aided the search for a killer

Police dog bites escaped Pa. killer during ambush, bringing nearly 2-week manhunt to an end
NEW BLOOMFIELD  A Perry County judge has signed a warrant for the arrest of the central Pa. pastor accused of stealing thousands of dollars worth of equipment from his church, who failed to appear in court.

Brian Peters, 58, was scheduled to appear before Judge Kenneth Mummah at 9 a.m. Thursday morning for a formal arraignment.

But instead, Peters never showed.

Peters is accused of packing up equipment that belonged to True Life Church in Marysville in May 2022 and driving it across the country to a new church he was setting up in Colorado.

He also made several pit stops, charging hotel and restaurant expenses to the churchs bank account, police said. Police also accused Peters of closing out church accounts and transferring the money to new accounts for the churchwhere only he was the signee.

Testimony from the churchs landlord, Denise Chubb, at Peters preliminary hearing revealed Peters had been slowly squeezing out other elders from the churchs board while bringing in family members.

Everything led to the fact Peters defrauded the congregation to move to Colorado, Marysville Police Chief Aaron Richards said at Peters preliminary hearing Aug. 3.

Arraignments are the first step a criminal case takes into state court. A judge must read a defendants charges out in court and give the defendant an opportunity to enter pleas of guilty or not guilty.

Peters, who lives in Colorado, was released on $10,000 bail. The purpose of setting bail is to ensure a defendant is not a danger to the community and to ensure they return to court for scheduled appearances.

Peters previously pleaded guilty to failing to file annual earned income tax returns for the year of 2019 and 2021.

Peters was formerly the chairman of the Penn Township Board of Supervisors before he resigned in 2017 to move to Marysville to be closer to the True Life Church. PennLive previously reported he began his ministry more than a decade prior in Colorado before he moved to Pennsylvania.

READ MORE:

2 men sentenced to life in prison for fatal drive-by shooting of toddler in Pa.: reports

Penn State student dies after being hit by vehicle while jogging on sidewalk

Hunter Biden indicted on federal firearms after plea deal failed
WASHINGTON  A federal appeals court in Washington released an opinion Wednesday that found a constitutional protection for members of Congress should limit what information federal investigators can access on a phone seized last year from U.S. Rep. Scott Perry, a Republican from northern York County.

A unanimous ruling from a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit comes in what has largely been a sealed case related to Special Counsel John L. Jack Smiths probe into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol.

Under the ruling, many of Perrys communications with fellow members about claims of fraud or efforts to overturn the 2020 election would remain off limits to investigators, and a lower court judge will have to do a communication-by-communication review of whether investigators can see Perrys other communications with fellow members or Trump administration officials or with the general public.

Its the most public twist yet in the monthslong legal battle Perry has waged to keep the Justice Department from accessing contents of his phone. And the opinion held for the first time that lawmakers cellphones have similar protections from search as their physical offices.

U.S. Rep. Scott Perry talks after the news conference announcing the state House leadership of the State Freedom Caucus, at the state Capitol in Harrisburg. November 28, 2022. Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com

The case turned on the Constitutions protection for speech or debate by members of Congress, which provides them with immunity from civil and criminal suits for actions connected to acts taken as part of their office.

Perry argued that also meant investigators could not search his phone for the informal factfinding he did in communicating with fellow members, federal officials and the public surrounding the 2020 election.

The lower court judge in the case, Judge Beryl Howell, ruled that informal factfinding didnt count. Howells December ruling would have granted the DOJ access to all of that information, and Perry appealed to the D.C. Circuit.

Wednesdays opinion, written by Judge Neomi Rao, reversed Howells categorical holding and found the judge should not have marked Perrys communications with other members as political just because they concerned the result of the election.

Rao wrote that at the time Congress was considering whether to certify the Electoral College votes and legislation from Democrats that would alter federal election procedures.

While elections are political events, a Members deliberation about whether to certify a presidential election or how to assess information relevant to legislation about federal election procedures are textbook legislative acts, Rao wrote.

Rao was joined by Judge Karen L. Henderson and Judge Gregory Katsas, who filed a concurring opinion.

Perry spokesman Jay Ostrich, in a statement, praised the ruling as a victory for the Constitution.

This decision firmly establishes that the Executive Branch cant prevent Congressman Perry, or any Member of Congress, from doing their job by having internal communications with other Members, or with their own staff  in this case, looking into certification of the presidential election, Ostrich said.

Perry filed a civil lawsuit last year seeking an order barring the Justice Department from searching his seized phone but dropped the suit in October. The case covered by Wednesdays opinion proceeded separately.

It was not immediately clear Wednesday whether Smiths office would appeal the case to the full D.C. Circuit or to the Supreme Court.

Michael Macagnone of CQ-Roll Call wrote this story.

2023 CQ-Roll Call, Inc. Visit at rollcall.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

More:

David McCormick to launch a new U.S. Senate campaign in Pa.: reports

Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson brings his low-key presidential campaign to Pennsylvania
Superior Court judges in a Milton courthouse will not be presiding over in-person cases because of the mould problems and continuing staff shortages in the aging building that are among a host of issues plaguing Ontarios justice system. Ontario's provincial flag flies on a flag pole in Ottawa, Tuesday June 30, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld
Photo taken on Sept. 12, 2023 shows a sign of the RE+ 2023 exhibition in Las Vegas, the United States. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

Chinese companies have been taking the lead in offering clean energy solutions globally. Their innovative solar generators, appliances and clean energy solutions got full recognition from their overseas counterparts, and attracted lots of visitors and other exhibitors at the expo.

by Xinhua writers Tan Jingjing, Gao Shan, Huang Heng

LAS VEGAS, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese companies took the spotlight at North America's leading clean energy expo held in Las Vegas, U.S. state of Nevada, this week, expanding their influence and opportunities on the global market.

The expo, named "RE+ 2023," draws over 30,000 attendees and more than 1,300 exhibitors around the globe, showcasing the latest equipment, technologies and best practices in clean energy sectors.

Over 300 Chinese companies are participating in the four-day expo, ranging from solar, energy storage, hydrogen, to EV infrastructure, microgrids, wind and more, the expo organizer told Xinhua.

Many well-known Chinese new energy technology companies were on the show floor, including CATL, BYD, CALB, Gotion and DESAY, together with lots of startups.

Chinese companies have been taking the lead in offering clean energy solutions globally. Their innovative solar generators, appliances and clean energy solutions got full recognition from their overseas counterparts, and attracted lots of visitors and other exhibitors at the expo.

People visit the exhibition area of Chinese company Gotion during the RE+ 2023 exhibition in Las Vegas, the United States, on Sept. 12, 2023. (Xinhua/Gao Shan)

Gotion, a leading power battery technology company, joined "RE+ 2023" with an array of clean energy solutions, including residential, commercial and industrial, as well as utility scale energy storage systems.

"RE+ offers a good opportunity to boost our brand awareness in the clean energy field in North America, and also helps us to strengthen connections with our North American and global customers," Jason Hao, director of market and business development of Gotion, told Xinhua.

He said Gotion attaches great importance to the development of overseas markets, and has been adopting different strategies in response to industry policies in different regions.

Earlier this month, Gotion and the U.S. state of Illinois jointly announced a new 2 billion U.S. dollars electric vehicle lithium battery manufacturing plant in Manteno, Illinois. The plant is expected to begin production in 2024.

Hao told Xinhua that Gotion expects to expand its market share on the North America market through localized production and supply chain strategies.

People visit the exhibition area of Chinese company Ampace during the RE+ 2023 exhibition in Las Vegas, the United States, on Sept. 12, 2023. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

For Xiamen Ampace Technology Limited, this is the company's first time to participate in the "RE+" expo with its own brand. The company showcased an array of innovative energy storage solutions at "RE+ 2023," including commercial and industrial energy storage solutions, residential energy storage solution and uninterruptible power supply systems.

Ampace's residential energy storage solution products have accounted for about 30 percent of the global market share, encompassing safety, reliability, operational costs, flexibility, energy density, and intelligent integration, Ethan Wei, director of business development of Ampace's Energy Storage System, told Xinhua.

With Europe, Japan and North America as Ampace's three main overseas markets, the company is also expanding businesses on emerging developing markets, such as South Africa, according to Wei.

"We hope to take the opportunity of RE+, the largest exhibition in the new energy industry, to better contact with our customers from all over the world, and reach out to more potential partners," he told Xinhua.

"We hope to combine our company's advantages in product manufacturing, product research and development, and quality control, with our overseas customers' brands and their sales channels, to offer more China-made high-quality products globally, to contribute to the global clean energy industry," Wei said.

People visit the exhibition area of Chinese company BYD during the RE+ 2023 exhibition in Las Vegas, the United States, on Sept. 12, 2023. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

Bluetti Power Inc., a clean energy startup, showcased their all-in-one home backup solution, energy storage system, and expandable portable power stations at the expo, with its 9000w energy storage system, named EP900, as a highlight.

EP900 features 9000w output, 9000w input and a maximum capacity of 19.8kwh. With an intelligent battery management system and reliable lithium iron phosphate battery pack, the equipment gives its optimal performance regardless of weather conditions, according to the company.

Chunjun Wang, vice president of business development of Bluetti, told Xinhua that China enjoys advantages in the clean energy sector both in terms of technologies and production capacities. "We should maintain our advantage through sustainable development."

"We need to better understand our customers, their habits, needs, different application scenarios. Based on that information, we should upgrade our products with more advanced technologies, and offer customers with safer, more convenient and more environmentally friendly products," Wang said.

A staff member introduces products to visitors at the exhibition area of Chinese company CALB during the RE+ 2023 in Las Vegas, the United States, on Sept. 12, 2023. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

In an interview with Xinhua, Xiang Zheng, vice president of CALB, stressed the importance of innovation.

Innovation-driven development has helped to lay a solid foundation for Chinese companies to stay ahead in the global clean energy market, he said.

Chinese exhibitors always bring the latest technology to North America's leading clean energy expo, the expo's organizer told Xinhua.

"RE+ 2023," running from Monday to Thursday, offers a platform for companies, professionals and educators from around the world to share best practices in clean energy solutions and expand business prospects.

Editor: GSY
Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Email

Print

Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT), who voted to convict Trump at both of Trumps impeachment trials, has announced that he will not run for reelection after his current term expires in 2025.

Video of Romney:

My message to Utahns on my Senate reelection plan: pic.twitter.com/kgbsfIxMeR  Senator Mitt Romney (@SenatorRomney) September 13, 2023

Romney said in part in the video, At the end of another term, Id be in my mid-80s. Frankly, its time for a new generation of leaders. Theyre the ones that need to make the decisions that will shape the world they will be living in.

In a Senate that has been described as a retirement home, Senators in both parties have stayed in office into their 80s and even approaching 90, it is refreshing to someone walk away. Romney has been critical of both Biden and Trump, but he also holds the unique distinction of being the only Republican senator to vote to convict Trump twice at his impeachment trials.

Mitt Romney is more like what the fiscal side of the Republican Party used to be. Romney famously said at the Iowa State Fair while making what would be a successful run for the Republican presidential nomination, Corporations are people, my friend.

According to an interview in The Washington Post, Romney has also been telling Sen. Joe Manchin not to run for president on a No Labels ticket because that would only help Trump win.

Romney is no liberal, but he values democracy, knows Trump should never be in office, and would not intentionally harm the nation. Those qualities make him an ally to those who are fighting to keep US democracy safe, even if we disagree with Sen. Romney on virtually every other issue.

The departure of Mitt Romney means that one of the few sane Republican voices is leaving the Senate, and if the past is prologue, he could be replaced by a right-wing extremist.
Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Email

Print

Senator Mitch McConnell ignored Senator Mitt Romneys advanced warning about the threat of violence on January 6th, 2021, including chatter targeting Romney himself.

Mitt Romney warned McConnell about the upcoming violence on 1/6.

In an excerpt of the upcoming biography by McCay Coppins titled Romney: A Reckoning , its revealed that Romney got advanced warning from Angus King about the Pentagon having reports of right-wing extremists planning threats of violence on 1/6 including storming the Capitol, gun smuggling, bombs, and targeting the traitors in Congress who are responsible for this travesty. Romneys name has been popping up in some frightening corners of the internet, which is why King needed to talk to him. He isnt sure Romney will be safe.

He sent a text to Mitch McConnell, who never responded.

Romney sends his text: In case you have not heard this, I just got a call from Angus King, who said that he had spoken with a senior official at the Pentagon who reports that they are seeing very disturbing social media traffic regarding the protests planned on the 6th. There are calls to burn down your home, Mitch; to smuggle guns into DC, and to storm the Capitol. I hope that sufficient security plans are in place, but I am concerned that the instigatorthe Presidentis the one who commands the reinforcements the DC and Capitol police might require.

McConnell never responds.

A pause while we appreciate the gravity of the betrayal of the partys Senate leader not even responding to warnings that came from the Pentagon about a party members life being threatened. This is such a profound dereliction of duty both morally and politically, its not a surprise Romney doesnt want to continue as a senator where at best he is isolated and ignored by his own party. At worse, he is not even worthy of a response when violence is threatened against him.

The horror of the attack is worth a read, especially as its been revised by Republicans and many in the media as nothing, maybe some tourists who felt strongly about the election and just wanted their votes counted  an odd excuse for people who used violence to try to stop the majority of Americans votes from being counted and mattering.

Romney gets an alert on his phone on 1/6: Theyre on the west front, overcame barriers.

As he pushed open doors at the back of the Senate chamber, he was surprised by the strange, unsettling quiet had engulfed the deserted corridor.when suddenly he saw a Capitol Police officer sprinting toward him at full speed.

Go back in! the officer boomed without breaking stride. Youre safer inside the chamber.

Romney turned around and started to run.

He got back in time to hear the gavel drop and see several menSecret Service agents, presumablyrush into the chamber without explanation and pull the vice president out. Then, all at once, the room turned over to chaos: A man in a neon sash was bellowing from the middle of the Senate floor about a security breach. Officials were scampering around the room in a panic, slamming doors shut and barking at senators to move farther inside until they could be evacuated.

This information raises many questions, like why did Mitch McConnell ignore Mitt Romneys warning? Did McConnell pass that warning on to anyone? Why isnt anyone investigating why there was no help on that day for law enforcement, when so many people in positions of power knew the right was planning a day of terror?

As the Senate chamber was under siege, Romneys frustration with his party overcame his Cranbrook politeness: He turned to Josh Hawley, who was huddled with some of his right-wing colleagues, and started to yell. Later, Romney would struggle to recall the exact wording of his rebuke. Sometimes hed remember shouting Youre the reason this is happening! Other times, it would be something more terse: You did this. At least one reporter in the chamber would recount seeing the senator throw up his hands in a fit of fury as he roared, This is what youve gotten, guys! Whatever the words, the sentiment was clear: This violence, this crisis, this assault on democracythis is your fault.

If you didnt have your money on Mitt Romney, infamous flip-flopper, being the spine of American democracy within the Republican Party, youre not alone. But its impossible not to feel the fear and terror that he experienced on that day, under a deadly, violent attack egged on by his own party leader and president and ignored by his Senate leader. Its even harder not to feel for his family, who were already worried about him, who must have watched this unfolding on their TVs with mounting anxiety and desperation.

Mitch McConnell has exacted serious damage against the trust in government, corrupting the procedural processes of the U.S. Senate for partisan gain, especially since the 2008 era of Republican obstruction.

There has been no accountability for McConnell, either. Perhaps thats because, as this excerpt points out, he excels at telling people what they want to hear. And while this piece didnt mention the press, I feel confident adding the media to the list as time and time again, their questions have been answered with a smooth pivot that appears to address the question, while effectively denying the validity of it by gliding away unscathed from any attempts at accountability.

McConnell has undermined norms and procedures that were taken for granted until he came on the scene. He has turned the Senate into a political war zone without shame. He always has a slick answer with a new rule explaining why he is grabbing more power and taking power the voters have given away from his opponents, but the overarching narrative of his career has been of destruction of democracy.

The day he ignored the warnings about 1/6 brings his other failings into sharper view, and raises questions about why there was no help on 1/6 given that even Mitch McConnell and the Pentagon knew about the right-wing plots.
Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Email

Print

A very large portion of my party, really doesnt believe in the Constitution, Republican Senator Mitt Romney told biographer McCay Coppins after the deadly domestic terrorist attack on 1/6.

Leaving aside for a moment the harrowing descriptions of the terror Romney and other Senators experienced as Trump supporters attacked law enforcement and broke down doors to get to them in an effort to stop the certification of the 2020 election, in the Atlantic excerpt of the upcoming biography Romney: A Reckoning, Romney laid out several reasons why he believes that a large portion of his party doesnt believe in the Constitution.

Earlier, I delved into the creeping authoritarianism the Republican worried about in terms of the political terrorism that drives his partys votes now, and this casting aside of the foundational principles of the Constitution is the other critical buttressing element in achieving democratic backsliding.

In an absolutely compelling excerpt, we learn how Senator Mitch McConnell led his party down the path toward ignoring their Constitutional duty during former President Donald Trumps first impeachment trial for trying to extort Ukraine to manufacture dirt on his political opponent then Vice President now President Joe Biden.

Instead, McConnell told Republicans they needed to protect their political power at all costs, suggesting that were Puerto Rico and D.C. to be turned into states that got representation, Democrats would have a permanent majority, which is essentially an argument that if The People were represented accurately and fairly, Republicans would not be in the majority.

McConnells thrust against acting an impartial jurors included asking the Utah Republican to vote to end the trial, prior to even hearing the completion of the opening arguments.

In a private meeting, McConnell pushed Romney to vote to end the trial as soon as the opening arguments were completed, because a prolonged trial would put at risk vulnerable Republicans.

McConnell didnt bother defending Trumps actions. Instead, he argued that protecting the GOPs Senate majority was a matter of vital national importance. He predicted that Trump would lose reelection, and painted an apocalyptic picture of what would happen if Democrats took control of Congress: Theyd turn Puerto Rico and D.C. into states, engineering a permanent Senate majority; theyd ram through left-wing legislation such as Medicare for All and the Green New Deal. Romney said he couldnt make any promises about his vote. (McConnell declined to comment on this conversation.)

The following meeting of their GOP caucus included a visit from Vice President Mike Pence, who explained the Trump defense strategy to the Senators tasked with acting as an impartial jury.

McConnell at the next meeting upped the ante even more, telling Republicans that they shouldnt view the impeachment trial as a trial at all. Instead, they should view it as a political process. That is to say, they should not abide by the Constitution, but rather do what keeps their party and themselves in power:

At the next meeting, McConnell told his colleagues they should understand that the upcoming trial was not really a trial at all. This is a political process, he saidand it was thus appropriate for them to behave like politicians. If impeachment is a partisan political process, then it might as well be removed from the Constitution, Romney recalled muttering to Ted Cruz and Mike Lee, who were seated near him. The senators politely ignored him.

The concept of the Senate trial being just a political process took over the television airwaves, even though its not accurate, as Senator Romney found from his own research. The Boston Globe summarized it (my bold), It is no surprise then that when senators try impeachments, the Constitution requires an oath or affirmation separate from the one they take as senators. The standard oath of office is to support and defend the Constitution. The impeachment oath is to do impartial justice according to the Constitution and laws, just like jurors.

While much of the Constitution lends itself to interpretation, the concept of impartial justice is not a matter of debate and is not a political process. It is, arguably, the opposite of a political process.

McConnell, however, knew that Trump had been nailed by the evidence and even McConnell didnt believe Trumps ostensible defense that he was investigating corruption by the Bidens (this part cant be too loudly emphasized as Republicans are now trying to impeach President Biden over these same accusations sans evidence or even a whiff of suggestion):

During a break in the proceedings, after the impeachment managers finished their presentation, Romney walked by McConnell. They nailed him, the Senate majority leader said.

Romney, taken aback by McConnells candor, responded carefully: Well, the defense will say that Trump was just investigating corruption by the Bidens.

If you believe that, McConnell replied, Ive got a bridge I can sell you.

This is yet another warning bell, coming from a distinguished if often times wishy-washy old school Republican. Romneys own internal wrestling with Trumps actions is troubling enough that he shares his wife Ann seemed unimpressed when he was going to acquit Trump. Perhaps being mired in politics for decades does this to people; they reach a point where they cant see outside of the fishbowl. But Romney does keep pushing himself until he lands where his conscience takes him, ultimately to the place where he is questioning his own role in making a safe place for his partys authoritarian push.

In the end, Romney focused on his own legacy and what he wanted his children and grandchildren to take from his work, a focus he might have come by naturally via his father. Romney has far too often been cushioned by his own wealth and privilege, and perhaps this contributed to his blindness about where his party was headed, but no one can say he didnt stand up once he understood where they were going. He put his own and his familys lives on the line to do the right thing.

Romney stood up against the autocrats who tossed out the Constitution in favor of naked power grabs. That will be his legacy, along with his eerie warnings about the inner workings of his party.
Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Email

Print

As Kevin McCarthy is trying to get a government funding bill passed, Gov. Ron DeSantis is meeting with House Republicans and urging a shutdown.

Politico reported:

The Florida governor spent about 30 minutes on the phone Wednesday with conservative Reps. Chip Roy of Texas, Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Bob Good of Virginia  leaders of the cadre that is pushing House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to embrace a shutdown if Democrats wont agree to hard-right policy demands.

DeSantis message, according to a person familiar with the call: I got your back. Keep fighting.

The call is the latest signal that DeSantis is working to insert himself into the spending fight on the Hill in a bid to elevate his standing among Republican primary voters.

Ron DeSantis is pushing for a government shutdown to boost his zombie presidential campaign, which passed the life support stage long ago and has entered the realm of the walking political dead.

Gov. DeSantis doesnt seem to realize that shutting the government down is not something that the American people support or enjoy. Kevin McCarthy is trying to pass a government funding bill while warning his House Republicans that they wont win a government shutdown.

Ron DeSantis is both showing his desperation as a presidential candidate and his willingness to harm the country to help his campaign.

Whether it is Ron DeSantis, Kevin McCarthy, or Donald Trump, the Republican Party has revealed itself to be dysfunctionally insane and completely incapable of governing.
Aiken Standard reporter

Matthew Christian is a reporter for the Aiken Standard. He covers the Savannah River Site, city of Aiken and politics.

Matthew previously covered government and politics for the Morning News in Florence. He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina School of Law and the University of Charleston in West Virginia.

To support local journalism, sign up for a subscription. See our current offers 
Working on behalf of a man sitting in a South Carolina prison, an Aiken County woman delivered drugs to a Florida-based dealer on at least three occasions, prosecutors announced this week.

Evin Rae Davenport, 32, pleaded guilty Wednesday to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute, 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Florida.

The inmate, 28-year-old Zachariah Ryan Luke of Aiken, entered a guilty plea to the same count Aug. 16. Sentencing dates have not been set, but each faces a sentence of at least 10 years.

While incarcerated at Wateree River Correctional, a medium-security prison in Sumter County, Luke used a contraband cellphone on Nov. 24, 2021 to coordinate with Davenport and the Florida drug dealer for a deal involving nearly a kilogram of meth, prosecutors said in a media release.

Davenport and the dealer met outside a South Carolina department store  the third such delivery authorities said she made  before the dealer headed back to Florida.

That's when everything began to unravel.

A deputy saw that dealer commit a traffic offense in St. Augustine, Florida, and tried to initiate a traffic stop, the release said, but instead, the driver raced down residential streets. Someone in a helicopter assisting the pursuit saw the driver throw something out the window that authorities later determined was a backpack containing 985.6 grams of pure meth.

The driver abandoned his car at a dead end and fled into the woods, where deputies caught him.

Back at Wateree, corrections officers searched Lukes cell and uncovered a number of phones, turning up text messages that included the times and locations of drug exchanges and the people involved  including Davenport.

Authorities have detailed a number of schemes tied to contraband cellphones, many thought to be obtained through drones. In one such instance, prosecutors said members of the Insane Gangster Disciples coordinated beatings, kidnappings and murders from prison in a bid to maintain their $50 million-a-year drug trafficking operation. In another, investigators alleged nine men incarcerated in South Carolina orchestrated nearly $5 million in coronavirus unemployment relief fraud.

This has led the South Carolina Department of Corrections, one of the agencies involved in this case, and state officials to ask the FCC for approval to jam contraband cellphones.

Other agencies that assisted in this investigation were the Aiken County Sheriff's Office, Aiken Department of Public Safety, North Augusta Department of Public Safety.

The deliveries occurred while Davenport, who had a Belvedere address, was out on bond awaiting trial on several drug trafficking counts in Aiken County, according to court records. Davenport has since pleaded guilty to two trafficking counts and another drug charge, and she is serving a 25-year state sentence. Her anticipated release date is in 2044 and she's not eligible for parole.

Luke, whose projected release date on state charges is in 2026, was arrested in 2019 after leading deputies on a chase in a stolen car through portions of Aiken and Edgefield counties. When he was captured, he had an AK-47 and meth.
The founder of a failed Charleston technology business who pleaded guilty nearly two years ago to an elaborate fraud only possible in the digital era has been sentenced to five years in prison.

Amir Golestan learned of his punishment Sept. 13, following numerous fits and starts in a unique case that first came to light in 2019. He also was ordered to pay restitution of about $77,000 to a victim and complete two years in a supervised program after he's released.

Federal prosecutors charged the Micfo LLC founder and his shuttered downtown web-hosting business with 20 counts of fraud, each punishable by 20 years in prison. They were accused of duping the organization that assigns the valuable 32-digit numerical combinations that enable smartphones and other electronic devices to communicate with the internet.

It's been described as a first-of-its-kind criminal prosecution. Defense attorney Cameron Blazer noted that message boards "devoted to the case" have been created within the broadband services industry.

Golestan has admitted to using fake notarized documents to help create a network of fictitious executives and bogus companies that were able to apply for and amass nearly 758,000 internet protocol numbers that were worth as much as $14 million on the resale market. He concocted the scheme because Micfo had come under suspicion and was no longer able to obtain them under its own name.

Golestan and his company earned more than $3.3 million by selling batches of the internet numbers before the operation was shut down.

Last year, a report from the U.S. Probation Office recommended he serve 87 to 108 months behind bars. The range was lowered Wednesday to between 50 and 71 months by U.S. District Court Judge Richard Gergel.

In a sentencing memorandum last week, prosecutors pushed for a lengthy incarceration, citing, among other factors, Golestan's "complete disregard for the law," even though he has no past criminal history.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated Ukrainian soldiers on Tank Forces Day, which is celebrated for the first time this year on September 14.

"Today is the Day of our tank troops. It is a day of commemorating the Ukrainian victory. Last year, the Kharkiv offensive ended on these days. It was tank units that were among the troops at the heart of the attacking fist of the Khortytsia operational and strategic group of troops," Zelenskyy said in the Telegram channel on Thursday.

As the head of state noted, then "Ukrainian tankmen overcame the overwhelming number of occupiers' tanks, destroyed many enemy vehicles and captured 77 Russian tanks. On September 14, after stabilization measures, the Ukrainian flag was raised in the liberated Izium. Thus, it is on September 14 that Ukraine will always celebrate the professional strength of our tankmen."

"Today, as always," the president continued, "tank troops are bravely and powerfully defending our country, destroying the occupiers and proving that Ukrainian strength is indomitable. Thank you for your courage and invincible character."

"Congratulations on the Day of Tank Troops of Ukraine," the president said.

As reported, the President of Ukraine signed a decree on celebrating Tank Forces Day on September 9, 2023.
A company affiliated with Google has purchased 143 acres in the same Moncks Corner industrial site where the Silicon Valley technology giant has operated a data center since 2007.

Arum Composites LLC paid $28.5 million for five contiguous parcels along Cypress Gardens Road and Garrott Avenue in Mount Holly Commerce Park off U.S. Highway 52. The properties, including about 10 acres of wetlands, are near Google's existing data center.

The deeds were recorded Sept. 13 with Berkeley County. Century Aluminum, which owns the business park and operates a nearby plant, was the seller.

It's not clear what Arum plans to do with the extra property, although the search-engine company it's associated with has been said to be looking for another data center site in the Charleston region.

Google did not respond to a request for comment on Sept. 14, nor did the attorney who represented Arum in the land purchase.

This is at least the second major South Carolina real estate transaction Arum has been involved in this year.

In May, the company sold 171 acres to Richland County for $16 million as part of a sprawling parcel where Scout Motors plans to build a manufacturing campus. Arum purchased the site in 2007 for $6.6 million for a potential Midlands data center. Local officials offered tax breaks for the project in 2016, but the deal never materialized.

This week's transaction near the coast comes amid talks that the Alphabet Inc. subsidiary is again looking to add a data center in the Palmetto State.

Dorchester County has been courting Autumn Timber LLC, which is believed to be affiliated with Google, with financial incentives that would reduce the company's real estate property taxes for 40 years and refund all personal property taxes during that period for a data center near St. George.

Elected officials have given two of the three required approvals to the deal. It has not scheduled a required public hearing before finalizing the tax breaks. The deal is not expected to be taken up at Dorchester County Council's next meeting on Monday.
An imposing pre-Civil War peninsula church that became a Charleston museum for historic documents is under new ownership and will be converted into a multiuse commercial enterprise.

Real estate investors and developers Vince Graham and Bob Holt paid $2.5 million in late August for the circa-1856 building at 68 Spring St. that housed the Karpeles Manuscript Museum, according to public land records.

Graham, president of Loci LLC, has been involved in multiple projects, including the I'On neighborhood in Mount Pleasant and Newpoint in Beaufort. Holt is the owner of Charleston Vacation Rentals Inc. and has developed several properties on the peninsula, including the 33-unit Iris apartment hotel on Line Street.

Their plans for the building's first floor include short-term rental apartments on the west side and a restaurant along Coming Street. The upstairs, where the church sanctuary was located, will become an event venue.

"We are excited for the opportunity and have an immense sense of duty and stewardship to bring the building to its former grandeur," Graham said. "It's been let go for a long time, and we are committed to preserving the integrity of the sanctuary space."

Erika Harrison, Holt's attorney, noted Holt's sensitivity to the project since he and Graham live nearby in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood.

"By restoring the building that's been a part of the community for so long and rescuing it for historic preservation, it's a marquee moment for (the developers)," Harrison said.

Renovations are expected to take 18-24 months.
South Carolina Technical Colleges are offering more free tuition funds for students enrolled in courses that can provide pathways to careers in high-demand industries.

Recent high school graduates and adults enrolled in qualified programs at any of the states 16 technical colleges are eligible for up to $5,000 from the $55 million Workforce Scholarships for the Future program.

The funds will automatically be applied to accounts for any state resident enrolled in courses leading to certificates, diplomas, degrees or industry-recognized credentials in health care, manufacturing, hospitality and tourism, construction, transportation and other fields with a critical need for workers.

The money can be used to pay for tuition and other educational expenses.

"Each year, the states technical colleges provide opportunities for over 130,000 students," said Tim Hardee, president of the S.C. Technical College System, during a Sept. 13 briefing at Trident Technical College in North Charleston.

The state said it set up the scholarship program to provide affordable, accessible and relevant educational opportunities to help build the workforce needed to fill thousands of jobs resulting from record economic development.

Hardee said $44 million from the fund awarded from January 2021 to May 2022 allowed technical colleges to train more than 32,400 students for 4-H jobs, defined as those that are high-paying, highly technical, in high demand and offer high mobility.

Additional scholarships will be available until the money runs out.

Fall enrollment is up 21 percent at the two-year Trident Tech, which has campuses in Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester counties, said Mary Thornley, the school's longtime president.

We are bursting at the seams, she said.

More than 13,547 students are enrolled at the school, which is offering all of its programs free to Palmetto State residents for the 2023-24 school year.
In ordered rows of regulation gray, a class of cadets at The Citadel is focused intently on the task at hand.

Black caps dotting new desks, they lean in, weighing well the instruction of the professor in front of them, in rapt gravity, as he explains how the brain can trick you. But for a visual clue or two, one might conclude they are prepping for some covert military operation.

But this formation is painstakingly drawing shapes, measuring and eyeballing to get them down exactly right. Hunched over sketch pads, they deploy pencils to paper, rendering squares of various sizes, informed by a front-of-class projection of a bucolic painting of a timeworn barn.

The topic that so holds their focus is perspective, and on my recent visit to The Citadels new Capers Hall, they look nothing less than duty bound.

A bona fide building

The Citadel has just snipped the ceremonial blue ribbon to open the new Capers Hall, which houses the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. The previous building of the same name was demolished in 2021 to make way for the new one, which was designed by the architectural firm Woolpert.

Its far more than just a freshly minted, fortress-like facade. Its a 97,500-square-foot, state-of-the-art testament to the Military College of South Carolinas mission-driven commitment to the humanities and fine arts.

First, theres its location. On its high-profile terrain near the campus entrance, it is situated steps from an iconic bronze likeness of the heralded, hard-won Citadel class ring. On the other side, it spills onto Hagood Avenue near the stadium.

Inside, 39 smart classrooms offer an intriguing amalgam of courses, spanning criminal justice; intelligence and security studies; English, fine arts and communications; history; modern languages; literatures and cultures; political science and psychology.

There are other spaces, too. Along with a slew of offices and gathering rooms, a glass-framed gallery space will mount art exhibitions that are open to the public. A fetching new auditorium seats 250, adding considerably to the constellation of Charleston arts venues.
COLUMBIA  Lexington-Richland School District Five is asking the S.C. Department of Education to waive a state regulation limiting how long its teachers are allowed to instruct each week.

The request is part of the Irmo- and Chapin-area district's efforts to mitigate the teacher staffing issues which have plagued school districts around Columbia and much of South Carolina in recent years, according to Superintendent Akil Ross.

"I just want another tool in the toolbox," he said.

Under regulations set by the State Board of Education, teachers can't be assigned classes requiring more than four preparations per day or instruct more than 1,500 minutes, or 25 hours, per week.

But administrators in Lexington-Richland Five said it's necessary for teachers at Dutch Fork High School, Dutch Fork Middle School and Irmo High School to be allowed to go over that limit in order to account for vacancies.

Such work would be optional, and teachers who work over the limit would be paid both for the extra class and the additional planning it requires, Chief Human Resources Officer Tamara Turner told the district's school board Sept. 11, which soon after voted unanimously to proceed with the request for a waiver.
When an opportunity that Jason Stanhope says "checked every box" first came up, the longtime FIG executive chef set a meeting with owners Mike Lata and Adam Nemirow. Stanhope, who joined FIG in his 20s, valued the opinions of the bosses who became friends during his 15-year tenure at the celebrated Meeting Street restaurant.

They supported Stanhope's decision to move on from the place that revived his love of cooking and helped him win a James Beard Award. As difficult as it was to leave FIG, the chance to work for "a gritty, scrappy company" with an established presence in Charleston was one Stanhope could not turn away.

"I don't have a single regret from my time at FIG," Stanhope said. "I'm not done cooking. I really wanted to capture this moment."

The 41-year-old chef will soon have the chance to put his stamp on Charleston's dining scene as the chef partner of two neighboring peninsula restaurants, both of which are located on The Pinch Charleston's boutique hotel property and owned by Philadelphia-based real estate and hospitality company Method Co.

One of the restaurants, The Quinte, is a familiar name to local diners who stopped by for scallops and black bass with ham gel earlier this year. The oyster bar, which operated on the 40 George St. property for eight months before temporarily closing in June, will feature a similar selection of local seafood upon its reopening. Stanhope plans to make the menu more robust, offering guests a place to visit for a full meal.
Applause broke out in Beaufort County Council chambers following an approved recommendation to buy a small parcel of land in Port Royal.

The unanimous $1.55 million approval finalized an effort by community members, county officials and the landowner to preserve a 350-year-old oak tree known as the Cherry Hill Oak  Beaufort County's oldest and largest live oak.

With the land purchase, the county will acquire about 12 acres surrounding the tree for a passive park.

Port Royal resident Hope Cunningham said the move will help to protect the natural beauty and historic charm of the Lowcountry.

"Preserving this cultural endowment for future generations is our responsibility," Cunningham said before the vote on Sept. 11.

Cunningham is among a group of county residents who rallied in defense of the Cherry Hill Oak in the summer of 2022 when a developer proposed an apartment complex be built around it.

Zoning for the property, which is off Oak View Road and sandwiched between Parris Island Gateway and the marshes on the west bank of Battery Creek, allows a maximum of 2 stories. Spartanburg-based Johnson Development Associates wanted to build three-story buildings.

The developer appeared before Port Royal's design review board last September to request a building variance.

After enthusiastic public opposition, the board unanimously voted to deny the request, which the developer subsequently withdrew.

With development plans shelved, property owner Merry Land Investments LLC shifted gears and began to consider a conservation solution. The corporation turned to the county's Rural and Critical Land Preservation Program, which will help cover costs associated with the new park.

Maintenance costs will also be partially covered by the property owner, who donated $50,000 of the purchase price back to the county.

The land will be purchased through the county's Rural and Critical Lands Preservation Program. Since 2000, Beaufort County has preserved more than 25,000 acres through the program.
BEAUFORT  As the last decade of the 19th century dawned, residents of Beaufort County had every reason to expect that the prosperity they were enjoying would continue unabated into the future.

They certainly had no inkling that just three years later a massive hurricane would cause a stunning loss of life, plunge the region into decades of economic doldrums and challenge the socioeconomic advancements made by the county's predominantly Black population during the Reconstruction Era.

This year marks the 130th anniversary of the Great Sea Island Hurricane of 1893, a storm that still ranks among the deadliest natural disasters in U.S. history.

"The Great Storm of 1893 was, up to that time, the worst natural disaster, in terms of lives lost in the nations history," wrote Lawrence Rowland in "Bridging the Sea Islands' Past and Present: The History of Beaufort County, South Carolina, Volume 3," which he co-authored with Stephen Wise.

Storm warning

The Great Sea Island Hurricane came ashore Aug. 27, 1893.

The first hint that a major storm was barreling toward the Lowcountry came two days earlier. The National Weather Bureau in Washington, D.C. issued a bulletin Aug. 25 indicating that at storm was centered about 500 miles east of Florida and headed northwest. By the morning of Aug. 27, the bureau warned that a great storm would likely strike the Georgia and South Carolina coast that evening.

"On Sunday morning, signal staffs at pilot stations from Tybee Island, Georgia to Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor raised the dreaded double-gale warning flags," Rowland wrote.

Despite the warnings in the urban centers, most in the storm's path were unaware its approach. The alerts did not make it out to the Sea Islands or other rural, low-lying areas of the South Carolina, said Caroline Grego, assistant professor of history at Queens University of Charlotte and author of "Hurricane Jim Crow: How the Great Sea Island Storm of 1893 Shaped the Lowcountry South."
(COLUMBIA, S.C.)  South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced recently that 42 attorneys general sued Meta in federal and state courts alleging the company knowingly designed and deployed harmful features on Instagram and its other social media platforms that purposefully addict c Read moreAttorney General Alan Wilson joins bipartisan, multistate coalition in lawsuits against Meta for harming children
Blinken: US objective is to prevent Russia from achieving success in its aggression against Ukraine

The U.S. goal is to prevent Russia from achieving strategic success in its aggression against Ukraine, as well as to ensure the economic, military and democratic prosperity of the Ukrainian state, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said.

"The ultimate objective is two-fold. First, of course, is to deny Russia any kind of strategic success in Ukraine, because if we don't then, as I said, it's open invitation to aggressors everywhere," he said in a statement in an interview with Pod Save the World on Wednesday.

Blinken said Russia has already failed in its attempts to erase Ukraine from the map, to end its identity as an independent country, and to subsume it into Russia. Now, according to him, where exactly the borders will be drawn that is fundamentally up to the Ukrainians themselves, who continue their counteroffensive.

"And we want to stand with them to maximize their ability to take back the remaining territory that Russia seized," Blinken said, adding that the Russian aggressor still controls about 17% of Ukraine.

The Secretary of State also said the United States strives for Ukraine not only to survive, but also to prosper, for which it continues to provide economic support to the country and support democracy. In this context, the goal is that "Ukraine can stand on its own feet."

He said Ukraine must reach a point where it can stand firmly on its own militarily, economically and democratically.
BEAUFORT  Former attorney Cory Fleming was sentenced in state court to 20 years in prison for helping his longtime friend Alex Murdaugh steal millions of dollars, significantly extending a prison term he has already begun.

In a searing address to Fleming, Judge Clifton Newman on Sept. 14 brushed aside the ongoing 46-month federal prison sentence he is already serving, deciding it wasn't punishment enough for the ex-lawyer's betrayal of his clients.

After some four hours of testimony and arguments before a courtroom crowded with Fleming's supporters, Newman handed down two back-to-back 10-year sentences for Fleming. His time in federal lock-up is expected to count toward his 20-year term.

"You must suffer the consequences of your actions," Newman told Fleming in the same Beaufort County courthouse where he practiced until the fraud schemes came to light in 2021.

State prosecutors accused Fleming, 54, of working in concert with Murdaugh to steal from two clients the notorious ex-attorney referred to him: Pamela Pinckney, who was badly hurt with her family in a car wreck, and the family of Murdaughs late housekeeper, Gloria Satterfield. All told, state prosecutors have said, Fleming was responsible for the theft of some $3.7 million  money they say he and Murdaugh pilfered in their victims' lowest moments.

Fleming pleaded guilty to one charge in federal court and 23 charges at the state level.
MYRTLE BEACH  Horry County police arrested two people at Myrtle Beach International Airport on Sept. 11 after undercover officers found multiple bags of drugs in their luggage, according to a police department news release.

Myan McCrary, 20, of Conway and Canaan Piercy, 20, of Longs were arrested, according to the release.

Officers seized nearly $2,500 in cash and about 86 pounds of a green leafy substance, which at least one of the men arrested said was marijuana, according to the release.

The drugs were discovered when a police dog sniffed some luggage and alerted officers to the bags. Piercy picked up one of the suitcases from the baggage carousel and McCrary picked up the other, according to the police report.

After a detective told McCrary he was a law enforcement officer, McCrary attempted to flee but was detained by police, the report said.

McCrary then struck a detective in the face, giving him a nosebleed, according to the report.

While McCrary was being placed into a patrol vehicle, the report stated, he spit at a police lieutenant before being taken to jail.

During this time, Piercy had been approached by the other detectives and detained. Detectives said Piercy admitted to putting the marijuana inside his suitcase.

Officers searched Piercy's bag and found 33.3 pounds of marijuana. After obtaining a search warrant, officers reported they searched McCrary's suitcases (with an additional suitcase getting an alert from the police dog) and found nearly 53 pounds of marijuana.

Per the report, McCrary was charged with trafficking marijuana, assault on a law enforcement officer and throwing bodily fluids on a police officer. Piercy was charged with trafficking marijuana.
CONWAY  A Fayetteville, N.C., man was sentenced to life in prison Sept. 13 for a 2018 murder in the Myrtle Beach area, according to a news release from the 15th Circuit Solicitors Office.

Marquis Shawn Brown, 32, of Fayetteville was sentenced by Judge William H. Seals. Life in prison was the maximum sentence Brown could have received.

The victim, Mark Verhasselt of Fayetteville, N.C., was found shot to death in a parking lot on Bovardia Place in the Myrtle Beach area on July 10, 2018.

The Horry County Police Department, specifically former Detective Matthew Singleton, did an excellent job with this investigation," prosecutor Mary-Ellen Walter said in the release. "They identified Brown within hours of the murder and had him in custody within days."

Investigators from the 15th Circuit Solicitors Office, including Steve Brown and Ginger Pop, were instrumental in securing the appearance and cooperation of key witnesses, according to the release.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated the location of the murder. The murder occurred in the unincorporated area of Horry County, not within the Myrtle Beach city limits. The story has been updated.
After hosting more than a half dozen workshops to inform income-eligible residents in Charleston County how they can apply for financial help to repair or replace their water and sewer systems, two more dates have been added.

Charleston County Community Development and Revitalization Department is assisting residents who are interested in applying for the Well, Septic Tank and Connection Program, which started in 2008. Additional in-person workshops will be held:

Sept. 25, 6-7:30 p.m., St. Pauls Hollywood Library 5130 Highway 165, Hollywood

Sept. 27, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Awendaw Senior Center, 6655 Highway 17 North, Awendaw

To qualify, residents must own their home and earn no more than 80 percent of the area median income  about $66,000 for the average Charleston County household.

The county has around $2 million to help income-eligible residents repair or replace their wells and septic tanks, or connect their homes to existing lines. In addition to an annual grant of about $300,000 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, County Council voted last summer to allocate about $1.5 million from its American Rescue Plan Act allotment to boost the initiative.

County employees will collect applications on a rolling basis until the funding runs out, verifying property ownership and income eligibility. A construction coordinator then will visit the home to assess whether repairs or replacement is needed.

Connecting a home to existing water and wastewater infrastructure costs the county an average of $10,000. Installing a new well costs about $5,000, and a new septic tank can cost around $8,000.

Interested residents also can apply to the program online at portal.neighborlysoftware.com/CHARLESTONCOUNTYSC/Participant.
NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla.  He didn't see it, submerged in the crystal water near the wave he just rode.

But it saw him. The shark must have mistaken the glint of the Florida sunlight off the gold chain he always wears for the iridescence of a fish scale, he later thought.

"All I heard was a crunch," described Mark "JoJo" Sumersett. "It felt like pieces in my skull were like chipping away from his teeth."

The 38-year-old surfer from West Ashley said he's lucky to be alive.

The shark that bit him left several inches-long lacerations to the right side of Sumersett's face and jagged teeth marks under the left side of his chin. But that's not what hurt so bad, he said.

"It was the pressure," he said. "It felt like a bear trap closing in on my face."

On Sept. 11, Sumersett travelled with a friend, who is a professional surfer, to Florida to catch the large swells sent ashore by Hurricane Lee churning more than 1,500 miles off the coast.

A jetty at the northern end of a spit of land that serves as the entrance to Ponce de Leon Inlet is a popular spot for surfers. The wall of rocks creates "the best wave in Florida  on the East Coast, actually," Sumersett said.

But it also forms an underwater river, of sorts, attracting huge numbers of fish, which in turn, attract sharks looking for their next meal.

The night before the attack, Sumersett had surfed around dusk and counted at least 10 sharks. The attack happened around 7:30 a.m. Sept. 12.

"I knew I was gonna get bit," he said by phone Sept. 14 from his hotel room. He remains in Florida because his buddy continued surfing. "I knew it, like, there was no doubt in my mind. But I wasn't not gonna go surfing."

Sumersett typically paddles out at Folly Beach, where shark sightings are rare.

"On Folly, the water is dark, so if there are sharks, you don't see them," he said. "But in New Smyrna, the water's clear so you can see them everywhere."
As a frequent visitor to Charleston, I have marveled at the beauty of the state. During a recent visit, I also took a side trip to Boston, traveling by air. I am a physician as well as a patient and worker-safety advocate. So when my driver in Boston asked me how he would identify me, I resp Read moreCommentary: Charleston airport needs to improve its air quality
The city of North Charleston soon will undergo a seismic political transformation, not only because longtime Mayor Keith Summey is not seeking reelection but also because five members of City Council have opted not to run again. Adding to the unknowns are the city's regrettable method of ele Read moreEditorial: Eight picks for North Charleston City Council
Former President Donald Trump is bringing his presidential campaign to Summerville, opting to hold his next South Carolina event in a region of the state that's home to two of his 2024 Republican rivals.

Details of the Sept. 25 event were announced on Trump's campaign website, and say that he will deliver remarks at Sportsman Boats. The event begins at 3 p.m., but doors will open at noon, according to ticketing information. Admission is free, but all tickets are first-come, first-serve.

It is unclear if Trump is planning to make any additional stops in the Lowcountry or what crowd capacity will look like for the event itself, which is being held at a family-owned and operated manufacturer of saltwater fishing boats.

"President Trump knows the road to the White House runs through Dorchester County and South Carolina picks presidents," said Steven Wright, the chair of the Dorchester County GOP who also separately confirmed the visit. "We are excited to have the president in Dorchester County. Our South Carolina presidential primary will be determined by who works the hardest to secure our support."

When he lands in South Carolina, Trump will be the third GOP presidential contender to come through Dorchester County this election cycle. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and biotech millionaire Vivek Ramaswamy have already visited.
COLUMBIA  South Carolina's abortion providers filed a new lawsuit challenging the state's six-week abortion ban, coming three weeks after the all-male state Supreme Court upheld the law signed by the governor in May.

The abortion providers now argue it is ambiguous as to when during a pregnancy the legal limit goes into effect.

The law, called "The Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act," has been widely assumed to ban abortions performed after six weeks of pregnancy, which is the point at which electrical impulses can be detected in an embryo.

But the wording of the law does not specify which week of pregnancy the ban begins, but instead refers the point at which a "fetal heartbeat" can be detected.

In their Sept. 14 filing, the providers ask the high court to take up the case directly, bypassing lower courts, and rule the ban takes effect at nine weeks of pregnancy when a heart forms.

"The Court may be able to punt on a critical question raised in its own decision to uphold a dangerous abortion ban, but health care providers and patients need answers now," the providers said in a statement covering their second lawsuit over the same law.

In August, the state's high court ruled on a 4-1 majority the law did not constitute an unreasonable violation of the constitutionally protected right to privacy, but several justices raised concerns about when the ban goes into force.

Justice John Kittredge wrote in a footnote of his majority opinion that "we leave for another day" the exact point at which the ban takes effect.
Russian occupation forces fired 433 shells into Kherson region, there were killed and wounded, head of the regional military administration Oleksandr Prokudin said.

"Over the past 24 hours, the enemy carried out 82 attacks, firing 433 shells from mortars, artillery, Grads, UAVs, ATGMs, tanks and aircraft. One person was killed, another eight were injured," he said in the Telegram channel.

The enemy fired 12 shells into the city of Kherson.

The administration's head said the Russian military entered residential areas of settlements in the region; building of an educational institution in Kherson region.
ROCK HILL  The Housing Development Corporation of Rock Hill will renovate four units near downtown as part of a larger initiative to provide stable housing for people experiencing chronic homelessness.

At the Sept. 11 city council meeting, the HDC, a city department, purchased the building at 405 W. Main St. from the city for $1.

Currently the property has a sign on it that reads "vacant" and "uninhabitable." The HDC plans to refurbish the building into duplexes by 2026, said Corrine Sferrazza, the citys community development director.

It will mark the fifth housing unit that the HDC has specifically earmarked for people who experience homeless.

After the Catawba Area Coalition for the Homeless released reports on homelessness in York County, it spurred the city to create more accessible housing for people struggling with the issue, Sferrazza said.

In 2023, based on data from the Homeless Management Information System, the coalition's report found 1,086 homeless individuals lived in York County, including 67 who qualified as chronically homeless.

CACH defines chronic homelessness as someone who has been homeless for over one year while dealing with a disabling condition, such as "developmental disorders, mental health disorders, physical impairments or disabilities, and substance use disorders."

When the HDC launched the plan in 2022, it planned to develop six units addressing chronic homelessness by 2027. But the department will reach that number earlier, with another housing unit already in motion for 509 Bynum St.

A bottleneck gets created in the emergency shelters because there's nowhere for them to go after the emergency shelter, Sferrazza said. There's not enough affordable housing or transitional housing or more permanent housing for individuals that are chronically homeless.
Clifford D. May is founder and president of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) and a columnist for the Washington Times. He is a veteran reporter, foreign correspondent, and editor for the New York Times and other publications. Cliffs most recent column is Mahmoud Abbass Jewish problem (at FDD, where it is posted with links). Cliff has kindly given us his permission to post his column on Power Line. He writes:

Once upon a time, Mahmoud Abbas inspired hope.

Elected president of the Palestinian Authority after Yasser Arafats death in 2004, he wore a tie and jacket, not battle fatigues. He was a nationalist, not a jihadist. He denounced terrorism by any party and in all its shapes and forms. A year earlier, Ariel Sharon, then Israels prime minister, had called him a responsible man.

Turns out, it was a fairy tale.

Addressing the Revolutionary Council of Fatah last month, Mr. Abbas asserted: They say that Hitler killed the Jews for being Jews, and that Europe hated the Jews because they were Jews. Not true.

The hatred that led to genocide, he contended, was not based on race or religion. Rather, Europeans fought against these people because of their role in society, which had to do with usury, money dealings, and so on. Even Hitler said he fought the Jews because they were dealing with usury and money.

Mr. Abbas further claimed that David Ben Gurion, Israels first prime minister, forced Jews to flee from Arab countries (where they had lived for centuries) to Israel by means of pressure, coercion, and murder.

As for European Jews, they are not Semites, he said, citing the discredited theory that Ashkenazi Jews are descended not from ancient Israelites but from Khazars, a medieval Turkic kingdom.

The state of Israel, he told his audience, was invented by Britain and America  not just Britain.  I am saying this so that we know who we should accuse of being our enemy.

Among the questions few in the media will ask: Has Mr. Abbas always seen these people in the same light as did even Hitler? Or have his views changed over the 18 years since his first election  which has turned out to be his only election?

Perhaps the image so many world leaders have had of him was based on wishful thinking. After all, the only serious alternative to Mr. Abbas has been Hamas, which rules Gaza, having forced out the Palestinian Authority after Israels withdrawal from that territory in 2005.

Hamas, a designated terrorist organization backed by the Islamic Republic of Iran, doesnt equivocate. There is no solution for the Palestinian question except through Jihad, declares Article Thirteen of the Hamas Covenant.

So, Mr. Abbas has been the only game in town. And one could hope that with American help  including more per-capita aid than Europe received under the Marshall Plan  the quality of life for the average Palestinian would improve, which would lead Mr. Abbas to conclude that coming to terms with Israel was in the Palestinian interest, not to mention his own.

That hope did not pan out as should have become obvious in 2008. Then-Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert proposed the establishment of a Palestinian state on 100 percent of Gaza and 94 percent of the West Bank. Both the Jewish state and the Palestinian state would have their capitals in Jerusalem.

Mr. Abbas flatly rejected the offer. Israeli and American leaders were mystified.

Were they unaware of Mr. Abbas ideological roots? In 1982, after a period of study in Moscow, he was awarded a doctorate for a dissertation titled: The Relationship Between Zionists and Nazis, 1933-1945.

In it, he accused Zionists of aiding and abetting the annihilation of the Jewish population in European countries occupied by Nazi Germany to implement the Zionist ideal of mass colonization of Palestine and create a Jewish state on its territory.

He contended that Zionists remain shrewd and dangerous enemies of socialism and the national liberation movements, as well as storm troopers of world imperialist reaction led by the United States.

He later published a paper building on his dissertation, casting doubt on whether gas chambers were used to exterminate Jews and claiming that the number of Jews murdered in the Holocaust might be even less than a million.

His explanation for the alleged deception: The Zionists would achieve greater gains when it came time to distribute the spoils.

In Tablet magazine earlier this year, Izabella Tabarovsky, a writer who grew up in the Soviet Union, explained that Mr. Abbas was echoing the Soviet Communist Party line which equated Zionism with Nazism, and portrayed Israel as irreparable and irredeemable.

If you take that view, it follows that no form of resistance is unjustifiable. And if the result should be a second genocide of Jews in less than a century? Well, once again the Zionists would be to blame, wouldnt they?

Mr. Abbas is 87 years old. What I suspect most concerns him now is his legacy  that his portrait should hang alongside that of Mr. Arafat, two leaders of the resistance, the long war against Zionists, Israelis, Jews and their role in society.

It has long been convenient to support the Palestinian cause without defining that phrase. We know that to Tehran and its clients it means replacing the Jewish state  that illegitimate, apartheid, racist Zionist entity!  with a Palestinian state from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean.

Or as Israels enemies like to chant: From the River to the Sea Palestine Will Be Free! Free of Jews, that is. The word the Nazis used was judenrein.

If Mr. Abbas holds such views, no end to the conflict is possible so long as hes in office no matter what concessions Israelis and others offer.

Will this fact now be acknowledged by the many U.N. officials who spend their days (and Americans dollars) defaming and de-legitimizing Israel, by the blame-Israel-first caucus in the U.S. Congress, and by those within the Biden administration intent on thawing relations with Mr. Abbas and chilling relations with Israel?

I think not. But I dont believe in fairy tales.
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby attended yesterdays White House press briefing. The White House has posted the transcript here.

Kirby was asked about the $6 billion payoff to Iran for the release of five American hostages, with additional American hostages to be taken later. I have written about this disgraceful and destructive deal several times. One reporter actually asked Kirby about the administrations nonsensical dodge regarding the payoff:

Question: Then why did we need to add $6 billion on top of that to 

MR. KIRBY: This is the deal that we were able to strike to secure the release of five Americans. It would be great, wonderful if we could just pick up the phone and call the mullahs and say, Hey, we want our Americans back. Send them back on the next plane. But you and I both know thats not going to happen, particularly with Iran.

And getting Americans home requires decisions, sometimes really tough decisions. It requires compromise. It requires negotiations. It requires negotiations with people you really would rather not be sitting across the table from, but you got to do it because Americans overseas in trouble wrongfully detained need to know and their families need to know that this President and this administration will do what it takes to bring them home.

Were comfortable in the parameters of this deal. I get it. Ive heard the critics that theyre  somehow, theyre getting the better end of it. Ask the families of those five Americans whos getting the better end of it, and I think youd get a different answer.

Were comfortable with the parameters of this deal. Were comfortable that therell be enough restrictions  quite frankly, very rigid restrictions  on the Iranians ability to use this money. And we make no apologies for the fact that were going to get these  these five Americans home just as soon as possible.

Question: President Raisi says its up to them how they use the money.

MR. KIRBY: Hes wrong.

Question: How are you going to guarantee that? Because once the money is  money is fungible. So, once 

MR. KIRBY: No, maam.

Question:  its released 

MR. KIRBY: No, maam. No, maam. Its not fungible. Hes just wrong. Hes just flat-out wrong. The way this  the way this deal is arranged is that these  these  the $6 billion, which is Iranian money, will go to a Qatari bank  Qatari National Bank.

The Iranians can request withdrawals for it for humanitarian purposes, and the Qataris  and it will be  and us  we will have oversight  sufficient oversight into the request itself to validate the request and then to deliver funds appropriate to that request.

The money will be then  will then go to qualified vendors to purchase and deliver the food, the medical supplies into Iran. So, it will go directly to aid organizations or appropriate relevant organizations inside Iran so that the Iranian people can benefit from it. And thats an important point, too.

While we certainly have issues with the regime, we dont have issues with the Iranian people. And this funding will be a  will be important to helping them get over some tough times.
When we started this web site, we spent a lot of time criticizing what was then called the mainstream media. Over the years, I have done this less and less. Twenty years ago, the legacy press at least pretended to be fair and objective its reporting, so we pointed out errors and biases. But today, the pretense is gone: most media outlets are shills for the Democratic National Committee, and make no bones about it. Pointing out bias has become mostly pointless.

At times, though, it can still be entertaining. I wrote yesterday about Susanna Gibson, Democratic candidate for the Virginia House, who raised money (likely for her campaign, it appears) by going on a porn site called Chaturbate and performing sex acts with her husband while asking the audienceshe had more than 5,000 followersfor tips. You can think that is depraved or you can consider it enterprising, but there is zero doubt about what she did.

Unless you are reading the New York Times. In its effort to help the Democrats in Virginia, the Times slides from spin to outright falsehoods. It headlines: State House Candidate in Virginia Condemns Leak of Sex Tapes. But there was no leak. Susanna Gibson performed sex acts in public, for money. The videos were posted by her, not someone else. Nor was there a sex tape, which carries connotations of nonconsensual posting of a private video by another party. No: Gibson did this herself, publicly, for cash. And the papers suggestion that the story here is Gibsons condemnation of Republicans, not what she did, is risible.

The Times purports to explain:

Releasing damaging information about candidates of the opposing party into the heat of a campaign is an age-old political practice, but the sensational nature of the disclosure of sex tapes  reportedly featuring Ms. Gibson and her husband, a lawyer  is highly unusual.

Most of the rest of the article is about whether Republicans committed a crime by cluing voters into what Ms. Gibson was doing on Chaturbate.

It is true that [r]eleasing damaging information about candidates of the opposing partyis an age-old political practice. But the Timess characterization of releasing damaging information presumes that Gibson was entitled to engage in public sex for money without the fact becoming known to voters. In fact, the release of damaging information was done by Gibson when she uploaded her videos (there were more than a dozen) to Chaturbate, to be watched by the public. And, yes, this situation is highly unusual. It is unusual because most politicians do not use porn sites to engage in sex acts for money.

The Times will never change, of course. It is not a newspaper, it is a political operation. But we can still enjoy a laugh at their expense.

Via John Nolte at Breitbart.
The military counterintelligence of the SBU and the Ukrainian Naval Forces hit the Russian Triumf air defense complex near Yevpatoria in Crimea on Thursday night, a source in the SBU told Interfax-Ukraine.

"Tonight, the military counterintelligence of the SBU and the Ukrainian Navy carried out a unique special operation near Yevpatoria  they destroyed the Russian Triumf air defense system worth $1.2 billion," the agency's interlocutor said.

According to the source, drones and Neptune missiles worked effectively on the target.

"First, the SBU drones hit the 'eyes' of the complex  radars and antennas, and after disabling the radar stations of the Navy units, two Neptune cruise missiles hit the S300/400 Triumf launch complexes," the SBU source said.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 20:01:45

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 385 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / AEGTo honor September 11, 2023, A Day of Service and Remembrance, AEG partnered with AmeriCorps, the LA Lakers and the LA Rams to support 9/11 Day's Meal Pack Program and help thousands of families in need across Southern California.The Los Angeles Meal Pack event was sponsored by AmeriCorps. The event brought more than 1,000 employees volunteers from AEG, AmeriCorps, the LA Lakers and LA Rams together at L.A. LIVE to assemble 350,000 meals which were distributed to families by the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.Since 2001, 9/11 Day has transformed September 11 into a day of service and today 9/11 Day is recognized as the largest single day of giving in the United States. To honor those who lost their lives and those who survived, 9/11 Day organizes a national Meal Pack service program and mobilizes volunteers to assemble nutritious meals for vulnerable communities across the nation. The 2023 9/11 Day program was held in 18 cities including Boston, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Nashville, New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and resulted in more than 6.5 million meals being assembled for those in need."More than two decades ago, many people lost their lives and people across the U.S. and world rallied together to be of service," said Anette Padilla, Director of Community Foundation and Social Impact, AEG. "Today, more than 30 million Americans join each 9/11 Day to help others and to honor the sacrifices that were made in 2001. At AEG, we are proud to host the Los Angeles 9/11/Day Meal Pack Program at L.A. LIVE and to unite with AmeriCorps, the LA Lakers and LA Rams to support families in need." Created shortly after the September 11, 2001 attacks, 9/11 Day's mission is to inspire millions of Americans to rekindle the remarkable spirit of unity and compassion that arose in the immediate aftermath of September 11. The organization aims to perform good deeds and other acts of service in tribute to the 9/11 victims, survivors, first responders, and members of our military who bravely rose in service in response to the attacks. To learn more about 9/11 Day click here.LA Galaxy's mascot Cozmo helps pack meals with volunteers from LA Galaxy.View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from AEG on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: AEGWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/aegEmail: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: AEG
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 18:02:54

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 983 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Alpha Male Plastic Surgery, a leading provider of male aesthetic and plastic surgery, today celebrated its 10th anniversary. The practice, founded by Dr. Douglas S. Steinbrech, has grown from a single office in New York City to three offices in New York City, New York, Chicago, Illinois and Beverly Hills, California."I am proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Alpha Male Plastic Surgery," said Dr. Steinbrech. "It has been an incredible journey, and I am grateful to all of my patients who have trusted me with their care. I am also grateful to my team of dedicated professionals who helped me build this practice." Dr. Steinbrech is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive aesthetics. He is known for his innovative techniques and his commitment to providing his patients with the best possible results."I believe that men deserve to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin," said Dr. Steinbrech. "That is why I offer a wide range of procedures that can help men improve their appearance, from liposuction and body contouring to facial rejuvenation and hair restoration." Alpha Male Plastic Surgery offers a variety of male aesthetic and plastic surgery procedures, including:BodyBankingMale LiposuctionBody ContouringFacial RejuvenationMale Breast ReductionHi Def LiposculptingJawline RecontouringMale Model MakeoverMale Neck LiftThe practice also offers a variety of non-surgical procedures, such as:BotoxDermal FillersKybellaVolumaAlpha Male Plastic Surgery is committed to providing its patients with the highest quality care. The practice uses the latest technology and techniques, and its staff is highly experienced and knowledgeable."I am confident that Alpha Male Plastic Surgery will continue to be a leader in male aesthetic and plastic surgery for many years to come," said Dr. Steinbrech. "I am excited to see what the next 10 years bring." Dr. Steinbrech has been recognized as one of the top plastic surgeons for men in his field by multiple media sources, such as The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, New York Times, NBC & ABC, Men's Health, GQ, and more. He was named the "Go-To Surgeon for Men" by Forbes Magazine. Dr. Steinbrech is a leading expert in male aesthetics and plastic surgery.The Rise of the Male Plastic Surgery MarketIn 2020, there were over 1.3 million cosmetic procedures performed on men in the United States. This represents a 29% increase since 2000.The most popular cosmetic procedures for men are:Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping)Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)LiposuctionHair transplantationMale breast reduction (gynecomastia)The growth of male plastic surgery is being driven by a number of factors, including:Increased awareness of the benefits of plastic surgeryChanging social norms that make it more acceptable for men to get plastic surgeryImproved technology and techniques that make plastic surgery safer and more effectiveThe average age of men who get plastic surgery is 41 years old.Men are more likely to get plastic surgery than women in the following areas:Neck liftsChin augmentationsEar surgeryForehead liftsMen are less likely to get plastic surgery than women in the following areas:Pectoral augmentationButtock augmentationTummy tucksThe growth of male plastic surgery is a trend that is expected to continue in the years to come. As more men become aware of the benefits of plastic surgery and as the technology and techniques continue to improve, we can expect to see even more men seeking out these procedures.It Wasn't the Easiest Road To SuccessYes, that's right. In 2017, Jezebel published an article titled "The Rise of the Manly Man Plastic Surgery" that criticized the growing trend of men getting plastic surgery. The article argued that male plastic surgery is a sign of insecurity and that it reinforces harmful stereotypes about masculinity.Dr. Steinbrech was one of the surgeons who cited the article. He responded to the criticism by saying that he believes that men should be able to make their own choices about their bodies and that plastic surgery can be a way to improve self-confidence and quality of life.Despite the criticism, Dr. Steinbrech's practice continued to grow. In fact, he opened a new office in Beverly Hills, California in 2017. This suggests that the article did not have a significant impact on the demand for male plastic surgery.There are a few possible explanations for why Dr. Steinbrech's practice continued to soar despite the criticism. First, the article may have actually helped to raise awareness of male plastic surgery. This could have led more men to consider getting plastic surgery, even if they didn't agree with the article's message.Second, the article may have backfired by making male plastic surgery seem more controversial and therefore more appealing to some men. This is a phenomenon known as the Streisand Effect.Finally, it's also possible that the criticism simply didn't resonate with Dr. Steinbrech's target audience. His practice caters to men who are confident and successful, and they may not have been bothered by the article's message.Whatever the reason, Dr. Steinbrech's experience shows that the demand for male plastic surgery is not going away anytime soon. As more men become aware of the benefits of plastic surgery, we can expect to see even more men seeking out these procedures.Dr. Douglas S. Steinbrech's Alpha Male Plastic Surgery is celebrating its 10th anniversary. The practice, founded by Dr. Steinbrech, has grown from a single office in New York, New York City to additional offices in Chicago. Illinois, and Beverly Hills, California. Dr. Steinbrech is a leading expert in male aesthetics and plastic surgery and has been recognized by Forbes as the "Go-To Surgeon for Men." Despite criticism from some naysayers, Dr. Steinbrech's practice has continued to grow, suggesting that the demand for male plastic surgery is not going away anytime soon. Learn more about Alpha Male Plastic Surgery at https://MalePlasticSurgery.com 655 Park Ave., New York, NY Tel: (646) 949-0130SOURCE: Alpha Male Plastic Surgery
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 17:00:35

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 427 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Bay Area entrepreneurs introduce an adult twist on the classic juice pouch packagingSAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / MIZO Hard Lemonade, the new alcoholic juice pouch that evokes nostalgia while delivering exceptional taste, is making waves in the market. This innovative beverage, which can be enjoyed straight from the pouch, frozen for a refreshing slushy, or transformed into a vibrant cocktail mixer, has captured the hearts and palates of consumers. Following a highly successful launch of the MIZO Hard Lemonade Variety 12-pack in eight Bay Area Costco locations, the brand is excited to announce its re-launch into Costco, along with an expansion to 18 Northern California locations. A TikTok announcement has already gone viral, garnering over 3.8 million views.MIZO Hard Lemonade Pouches MIZO Hard Lemonade juice pouches MIZO Hard Lemonade has redefined the concept of boozy beverages with its unique and nostalgic packaging. Each 10-ounce pouch is only 90 calories and 4g of sugar. The MIZO Hard Lemonade Variety 12-pack offers a delicious selection of four distinct and refreshing flavors: Mango Passionfruit, White Peach, Blackberry Lychee, and Original Lemonade. This unique assortment ensures that there's something for everyone, whether they crave a tropical escape or a classic, nostalgic trip down memory lane."We are thrilled by the positive response to MIZO Hard Lemonade during its initial release," said Holly Paul and Chris Tran, the founders of MIZO. "MIZO is not just a beverage; it's a celebration of our Asian-American heritage and our favorite nostalgic memories. We are excited to reintroduce MIZO Hard Lemonade into Costco and expand its availability, allowing more individuals to enjoy our Asian-inspired flavors and the playful experience of our boozy juice pouches." Following the overwhelming demand experienced during the initial launch, MIZO Hard Lemonade is eager to expand its reach to 18 Northern California Costco locations. Customers can find the MIZO Hard Lemonade Variety 12-pack at their local Costco, priced at $19.99.MIZO Hard Lemonade is also available in a variety 8-pack at select Walmart, BevMo!, and Total Wine locations.Visit https://www.drinkmizo.com/ for more information about MIZO Hard Lemonade and its availability.About MIZOInspired by the fruits their immigrant parents shared with them as they were growing up, founders Holly Paul and Chris Tran created MIZO (Mee-zOH) as a celebration of culture, fruit-forward flavors, and the joy of childhood memories. Their newest product line, MIZO Hard Lemonade, takes customers on a journey through time with its boozy twist on juice pouches.Contact InformationHolly Paul MIZO holly@ drinkmizo.com 4086803532Related FilesMIZO HARD LEMONADE JUICE POUCHES.jpg SOURCE: MIZO
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 07:48:46

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 572 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Bernstein Liebhard LLP:Do you, or did you, own securities of Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE:BHC)?Did you purchase your securities between August 6, 2020 and May 3, 2023, inclusive?Did you lose money in your investment in Bausch Health Companies Inc.?Do you want to discuss your rights?Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action lawsuit that has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the securities of Bausch Health Companies Inc. ("Bausch" or the "Company") (NYSE: BHC) between August 6, 2020 and May 3, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the "Complaint").If you purchased or acquired Bausch securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Bausch Health Companies Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than September 25, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.The Complaint alleges that Defendants made materially false and misleading statements throughout the Class Period. Among other things, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that: 1) the B+L spinoff would not result in two strong separate companies; 2) without B+L, Bausch was left overly leveraged and without the cashflow generated by B+L; and 3) distribution of the B+L spinoff shares would not occur as represented.On May 4, 2023, Bausch announced negative earnings results for its first quarter of 2023, which indicated further delay of the B+L share distribution. According to analysts, the probability of a distribution was now less than 50% and, without any mention of it from management, the likelihood of it occurring in the near term was low.On this news, Bausch's stock price fell $1.51 per share, or over 20%, to close at $5.89 per share on May 4, 2023.If you purchased or acquired Bausch securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Bausch Health Companies Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for sixteen consecutive years.ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2023 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.Contact Information:Peter AlloccoBernstein Liebhard LLP https://www.bernlieb.com(212) 951-2030pallocco@ bernlieb.com SOURCE: Bernstein Liebhard LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 13:41:12

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 523 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Blockonomics, a leader in the crypto payment gateway market, announces its strategic focus on Bitcoin and drivechains, along with upcoming sponsorships of global tech events, as it aims to pioneer decentralized and secure financial solutions in a market projected to reach $4.12 billion by 2029.SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Blockonomics , a pioneer in the crypto payment ecosystem, is excited to announce its upcoming sponsorships and product developments. These announcements come as the crypto payment gateway market continues to flourish, with projections indicating a valuation of $4.12 billion by 2029."Amidst the rapid growth of the crypto payment gateway market, Blockonomics remains committed to its core principles of privacy, security, and decentralization," said Shiva Sitamraju, CEO of Blockonomics. "While many in the industry are diversifying into altcoins, we have chosen to focus on Bitcoin and its latest controversial proposal-drivechains." Blockonomics is set to sponsor several tech events in the coming months, including Blockchain Expo Global in London and WordCamp Asia in Taipei. "These sponsorships are an opportunity for us to engage with the community and showcase our commitment to the crypto ecosystem," added Sitamraju.Blockonomics recently announced its decision to support drivechains, a topic of much debate in the Bitcoin community. "Drivechains allow for innovation without compromising the decentralized nature of Bitcoin. This aligns perfectly with our mission," Sitamraju explained.Read more about Blockonomics' stance on drivechains .While the no-KYC feature has always been a cornerstone of Blockonomics' platform, the company has made a deliberate decision to not support altcoins. "Our unwavering focus on Bitcoin is not a limitation but a strategic choice. In a market where many are diversifying into various altcoins, we see Bitcoin as the true game-changer. It's not just another digital asset; it's a revolutionary technology with the potential to redefine the financial landscape entirely. Our commitment to Bitcoin aligns with our core principles of privacy, security, and decentralization, and we believe this focus will serve us well as the crypto landscape continues to evolve," said Shiva Sitamraju.Read more about Blockonomics' stand on altcoins."As we navigate the complexities of the crypto landscape, our mission remains clear: to empower businesses and individuals with decentralized and secure financial solutions. We're not just adapting to change; we're driving it," Sitamraju concluded.About BlockonomicsBlockonomics is not just another decentralized Bitcoin payment solution; it's a trailblazer in the crypto landscape, empowering both businesses and individuals to exercise full control over their financial transactions. The platform's cutting-edge technology facilitates instant Bitcoin transfers directly to users' wallets, thereby eliminating the need for third-party intermediaries and ensuring unparalleled security. Blockonomics seamlessly integrates with online shops, offering easy-to-use payment buttons and plug-in support that make Bitcoin transactions effortless. This is particularly beneficial for e-commerce platforms aiming to diversify their payment options and attract a broader customer base. Additionally, the platform's invoicing tool allows for streamlined peer-to-peer transactions, enabling users to invoice in fiat currencies but receive payments in Bitcoin, based on real-time exchange rates.For more information, visit Blockonomics.Media ContactOrganization: BlockonomicsContact Person: Arpit AgarwalWebsite: https://www.blockonomics.co/ Email: arpit@ blockonomics.coCity: SingaporeCountry: SingaporeSOURCE: Blockonomics
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 16:04:15

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 367 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized law firm, notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. ("Hawaiian Electric" or the "Company") (NYSE:HE) and certain of its officers.Class Definition:This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Hawaiian Electric securities between February 28, 2019 and August 16, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: www.bgandg.com/he Case Details:The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Hawaiian Electric's wildfire prevention and safety protocols and procedures were inadequate to meet the challenges for which they were ostensibly designed; (2) accordingly, despite knowing the degree of risk that wildfires posed to Maui, the Company's inadequate safety protocols and procedures placed Maui at a heightened risk of devastating wildfires; and (3) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.What's Next?A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm's site: www.bgandg.com/he or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Law Clerk and Client Relations Manager, Yael Nathanson of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 332-239-2660. If you suffered a loss in Hawaiian Electric you have until October 23, 2023 to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide.Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.Contact:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Yael Nathanson332-239-2660 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 18:27:30

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 851 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Cobra Safety, known internationally for its commitment to protecting people, property, and the planet, has launched workplace programs that prioritize both safety and the environment. The BIPOC-owned, women-led company is helping progressive organizations around the world to advance transformative change in occupational health, safety, and sustainability.Pictured from Left to Right: Domonique Quirion-Currie, Nisa Karan-Aravinth, and Subanya Karan Cobra Safety was founded by Nisa Karan-Aravinth, a woman of color who has held several leadership positions in the Health and Safety field. Most recently, prior to founding Cobra Safety, Nisa was the Director of Occupational Health, Safety & Wellness at a world-renowned hospital in Ontario, Canada. As a registered nurse, Nisa's passion for person-centered care informed her everyday practice. The pivot to Cobra Safety stemmed from her deep desire to help companies provide better work environments for employees.Nisa explains that the average worker spends almost one-third of their lifetime, or nearly 90,000 hours, at work. "Clearly, the workplace is a great spot to focus health, wellness, and safety initiatives," she says. "Not only does this support the business, as a happy and healthy employee is a productive one, but it also supports our healthcare systems. If health is addressed upstream where people live, work, and play, it will help in offloading downstream, like at hospitals." She also believed that while the traditional definition of Occupational Health and Safety would always remain relevant, it had the ability to impact not only workers but also Earth. There was a real need to create programs that would introduce sustainability into businesses so that ultimately, success would be more than just profit - the measure of success would be the "triple bottom line", in other words, people, profit, and the planet."The lens had always been on safety, risk, and regulatory compliance, which are still important," Nisa says. "However, with the disruptive impact of climate change on our lives and communities, I could see the connection between the safety of employees, businesses, and the state of our planet. At Cobra Safety, we decided to redefine what a safe workplace looks like in the 21st century and include sustainability in our services." Nisa is joined in her mission by Domonique Quirion-Currie, Head of External Engagements and Strategic Partnerships, and Subanya Karan, Vice President, Project Management and Delivery. Both believe so passionately in occupational health, safety, and sustainability that they jumped at the opportunity to join Cobra Safety's mission.Dominique explains that while society can appear safe, there are actually thousands of potential dangers everywhere. Watching her grandparents go to work at high-risk factories, she was profoundly grateful that due to proper workplace safety procedures, they came home safe each evening."We understand that without safety, communities cannot thrive," Dominique says. "As our planet changes because of global warming, it is imperative that a workplace address all aspects of safety, including sustainability. We all want our loved ones to return home from work to us every day, which starts with having the right programs and procedures in place." Subanya, who is the daughter of war refugees, has seen first-hand the occupational risks that some people encounter when forced to take jobs that have lower barriers to entry."My parents were like many immigrants to Canada and elsewhere: because of language issues, they did not understand their rights to safety and had to work in dangerous conditions," she recalls. "It is why I am determined to help Cobra Safety accomplish its mission. We want businesses to prioritize health and safety so that every employee, wherever they may work, will go home safely." Cobra Safety focuses on five core streams, including training, consulting, advisory, and professional staffing as well as sustainability and net zero, which are incorporated into its business model. The company donates a portion of its proceeds to carbon removal initiatives."We support multiple environmental organizations in Canada and abroad," says Nisa. "In doing so, we hope to give back to the planet and ultimately contribute to safer working conditions at organizations. Remember: our greatest assets are not only people and property but the world we live in. At Cobra Safety, we believe 100% that a safe workplace is tied to a healthy world and vice versa. By combining occupational health and safety with sustainability, we can create a better world for employees and future generations." About Cobra SafetyCobra Safety is an occupational health, safety, and sustainability organization founded by Nisa Karan-Aravinth, a recognized safety and business leader and one of Canada's Top Women in Safety in 2023. Cobra Safety offers training, consulting, advisory, and professional services to other organizations/companies. The organization ensures that a company is compliant with workplace health and safety laws by supporting its employees with the development and maintenance of a robust occupational health and safety program, including training, policies/procedures, surveillance programs, incident response, auditing, and more.For more information about Cobra Safety, please see https://www.cobra-safety.com/ or contact:Domonique Quirron-Curriedomonique@ cobra-safety.com SOURCE: Cobra Safety
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 16:05:11

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 441 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized law firm, notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Comerica Incorporated ("Comerica " or the "Company") (NYSE:CMA) and certain of its officers.Class Definition:This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Comerica securities between February 9, 2021 and May 29, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: www.bgandg.com/cma Case Details:The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements and/or failed to disclose, among other things, that: (1) Comerica failed to provide meaningful oversight over the vendors to whom it contracted out day-to-day operations of the Direct Express program, a system through which it is contracted to provide federal benefits to millions of Americans without bank accounts; (2) as a result of violations in the day-to-day operations of Direct Express, including handling fraud disputes and allowing sensitive data to be handled out of a vendor's office in Pakistan, Comerica was not in compliance with the Federal Contract, and knew it was not in compliance; (3) Comerica knew and failed to disclose that it was in potential violation of Regulation E due to inadequate fraud prevention in the Direct Express program and responses to instance of fraud; and (4) as a result, Defendants' statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.What's Next?A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm's site: www.bgandg.com/cma or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Law Clerk and Client Relations Manager, Yael Nathanson of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 332-239-2660. If you suffered a loss in Comerica you have until October 20, 2023, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide.Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.Contact:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Yael Nathanson332-239-2660 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 13:30:46

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 1039 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA OR TO US WIRE SERVICESTORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / EV NICKEL INC. (TSXV:EVNI) ("EVNi" or the "Company") announced today that it is closing the second and final tranche of a non-brokered, private placement of units ("Units") of the Company at C$0.06 per Unit (see news releases dated July 17, 2023 and September 12, 2023) for total gross proceeds of C$2,100,020 (the "Offering").Tranche 1 closed on July 21, 2023, with aggregate proceeds of C$82,020 and tranche 2 is closing today for aggregate proceeds of C$2,018,000 (each, a "Closing Date"). Pursuant to the Offering, the Company is issuing, in aggregate, 35,000,334 Units between tranche 1 and tranche 2. Each Unit consists of one common share ("Common Share") in the capital of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of C$0.09 for a period of 24 months following the respective Closing Date. EVNi intends to use the net proceeds raised from the Offering for the continued exploration and advancement of the Company's Shaw Dome Project located south of Timmins, Ontario and for general corporate purposes.Three new strategic investors are participating in the Offering (each, a "New Strategic Investor"), consisting of two generalist financial investors, John Paterson ("Mr. Paterson") and Hegemon VC EVNi, LLC ("Hegemon"), and one industry participant. After the Offering, each of the New Strategic Investors will own more than 5% but less than 9.9% of the Common Shares. In connection with the Offering, and pursuant to Investor Rights Agreements (each, an "Investor Rights Agreement") entered into with each of the New Strategic Investors, each New Strategic Investor was also granted the right to nominate a candidate to the EVNi board of directors (the "Nomination Rights"). One of the New Strategic Investors, John Paterson, will hold Nomination Rights until December 31, 2025, and the other two New Strategic Investors will retain their Nomination Rights provided they continue to hold at least 5% of the Common Shares. Each of the New Strategic Investors has also been granted a right to maintain their pro-rata interest in the Company in future financings.The Company is pleased to announce that John Paterson will be joining EVNi's Board effective immediately. Mr. Paterson's career is in finance and law working in both domestic and international financial institutions. With extensive corporate experience, he is currently a board member and advisor to companies in various industries and areas, including strategy, planning, and execution.The Company will pay finder's fees on portions of the Offering. These finder's fees will total C$88,761 in cash and 1,479,357 in common share purchase warrants (the "Broker Warrants"). Each Broker Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of C$0.09 for a period of 24 months following the Closing Date. PowerOne Capital Markets Limited acted as a finder in connection with the Offering."The Company is pleased to be closing this financing. We are grateful for the continued support of some core existing shareholders and welcome our New Strategic Investors. John will be a tremendous addition to the Board," stated Sean Samson, President and CEO of EV Nickel. "We now enter an exciting period, with High-Grade and Large-Scale Resources now established, continued Clean Nickel R&D results on the horizon and supportive financial partners at our side- we can begin to realize more of the potential from our Shaw Dome Project." Early Warning DisclosureJCJ2 TRUST, a trust controlled by Mr. Paterson, acquired 7,250,000 Units at a price of C$0.06 per Unit pursuant to the final tranche of the Offering, for a total subscription price of C$435,000. As a result, Mr. Paterson acquired 7,250,000 Common Shares and 7,250,000 Warrants. Mr. Paterson is providing the following disclosure pursuant to National Instrument 62-103 - The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues ("NI 62-103") as Mr. Paterson's ownership over the shares of the Company is more than 10% of the issued and outstanding shares on a partially-diluted following the Offering.Immediately after the final tranche of the Offering, Mr. Paterson beneficially owns, and has control and direction over, 7,250,000 Common Shares and Warrants exercisable for 7,250,000 Common Shares, representing approximately 8.4% of the outstanding shares on an undiluted basis and 15.4% on a partially-diluted basis, assuming the exercise of the Warrants held by Paterson, based upon 86,397,271 Common Shares outstanding upon completion of the final tranche of the Offering.The Units were acquired by Mr. Paterson for investment purposes only, and in the future, Mr. Paterson may acquire additional securities of EVNi, dispose of some or all of the existing securities it holds or will hold, or may continue to hold its current position, depending on market conditions, reformulation of plans and/or other relevant factors.An early warning report (the "Paterson Report") will be filed by Mr. Paterson pursuant to NI 62-103 on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca under the profile of EVNi. To obtain a copy of the Paterson Report, please contact John Paterson, addressed at 77 King Street West, Suite 3000, Toronto, ON, M5K 1G8 or by telephone at 647-960-9931.Hegemon acquired 7,250,000 Units at a price of C$0.06 per Unit pursuant to the final tranche of the Offering, for a total subscription price of C$435,000. As a result, Hegemon acquired 7,250,000 Common Shares and 7,250,000 Warrants. Hegemon is providing the following disclosure pursuant to NI 62-103 as Hegemon's ownership over the shares of the Company is more than 10% of the issued and outstanding shares on a partially-diluted following the Offering.Immediately after the final tranche of the Offering, Hegemon beneficially owns, and has control and direction over, 7,250,000 Common Shares and Warrants exercisable for 7,250,000 Common Shares, representing approximately 8.4% of the outstanding shares on an undiluted basis and 15.4% on a partially-diluted basis, assuming the exercise of the Warrants held by Hegemon, based upon 86,397,271 Common Shares outstanding upon completion of the final tranche of the Offering.The Units were acquired by Hegemon for investment purposes only, and in the future, Hegemon may acquire additional securities of EVNi, dispose of some or all of the existing securities it holds or will hold,
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 19:03:25

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 556 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Freedom Libraries, conceived by Reginald Dwayne Betts, former prisoner-turned-acclaimed-poet, open at maximum security facility in Warren, MaineNEW HAVEN, CT / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Today, the national non-profit Freedom Reads opened 17 Freedom Libraries in Maine State Prison (MSP), a maximum-security facility located in Warren, ME. The Freedom Libraries will be placed in each of the facilities' cellblocks for unfettered access to the curated collection. One of MSP's 17 Freedom Libraries will be dedicated to staff use. These openings mark an ongoing partnership with the Maine Department of Corrections, which was one of the first Departments of Corrections to welcome partnering with Freedom Reads.The brainchild of 2021 MacArthur Fellow and Yale Law School graduate Reginald Dwayne Betts, who was sentenced to nine years in prison at age 16, the Freedom Libraries seek to create a space to encourage community and where reaching for a book can be as spontaneous as human curiosity. Each bookshelf is handcrafted out of maple, walnut or cherry and is curved to contrast straight lines and bars of prisons as well as to evoke Martin Luther King Jr.'s line about the "arc of the universe" bending "toward justice." Betts' nonprofit is a first-of-its-kind organization that empowers people through literature to imagine new possibilities for their lives. Books in the Freedom Library have been carefully curated through consultations with hundreds of poets, novelists, philosophers, teachers, friends, and voracious readers, resulting in a collection of books that are not only beloved but indispensable. The libraries include contemporary poets, novelists, and essayists alongside classic works from Homer's The Odyssey to the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, titles that remind us that the book has long been a freedom project."For many, access to literature opens up the opportunity for imagining a better tomorrow. We are grateful to the Maine Department of Corrections for allowing us to offer that opportunity to those incarcerated in their facilities," said Reginald Dwayne Betts, Founder and CEO of Freedom Reads. "With the opening of these Freedom Libraries at Maine State Prison, we are fostering the type of creativity and hope that we believe can transform the lives of those incarcerated. It is our hope that the legacy of these libraries is seen every day in the lives of those impacted by them." "The Maine Department of Corrections is happy to have these beautiful libraries at Maine's largest correctional facility," said Anthony Cantillo, Deputy Commissioner for the Maine Department of Corrections. "With 17 libraries being placed in the facility, it is sure to bring great conversations and warmth. We at the Maine DOC are grateful for the opportunity to receive these libraries once again and look forward to other meaningful opportunities from Freedom Reads!"About Freedom Reads:Founded by Reginald Dwayne Betts, who knows firsthand the dispiriting forces of prison, Freedom Reads works to empower people through literature to confront what prison does to the spirit. Supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and inspired by the recognition that freedom begins with a book, Freedom Reads supports the efforts of people in prison to transform their lives through increased access to books and writers. For more information about Freedom Reads and the Freedom Libraries project, please visit https://freedomreads.org/ Contact InformationMegan Stencel Account Executive megan@ javelindc.com 7034908845SOURCE: Freedom Reads
Security of region important for 27% of Ukrainians, when choosing location for tourist trip  Tourism Agency

For 27% of Ukrainians, when choosing a location for a tourist trip, the safety of the region is important, the State Agency for Tourism Development told Interfax-Ukraine.

According to a partnership study by the State Agency for Tourism Development and the UNICEF U-Report Ukraine project, the majority of respondents traveling around Ukraine first of all pay attention to the beauty of nature - 51%, and only then to affordability - 46%. Cultural heritage and historical monuments are of interest to 36% of tourists.

The security of the region in the context of a full-scale invasion is important to 27% of respondents.

Some 16% of travelers visit this or that region in order to be inspired by authentic culture, and the same number in order to admire popular Instagrammable places.

Features of local cuisine are of interest to 13% of traveling Ukrainians. When choosing a vacation location, craft production matters only to 5% of respondents.

Respondents named the Internet as the main source of information about their future travel destination (63%), while 49% of respondents consider social networks to be the next effective tool for planning trips. Some 28% of Ukrainians surveyed use advice from friends and relatives. And a very small number of respondents  7%  learn information from the media.

The Tourism Agency drew attention to the fact that the survey questions were multiple-choice, so each answer has a percentage of choice by respondents.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 18:15:51

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 774 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Leone Solutions Group (LSG) transcends the narrative of merely being a consulting and technology firm; it's a living testament to resilience, born from personal hardships and the relentless fight against systemic inequality and discrimination. Co-founders Ashley Bratton and Sacha Taylor, both Georgetown University alumni, have harnessed the energy of their own struggles to embark on an inspiring mission that has catalyzed remarkable global impact. LSG's collaborative efforts with domestic and international organizations have, to date, impacted over 12.7 million lives, ushering in a new era of safer, more informed, and equitable communities. LSG's Pre Seed funding launch for CLEONA ushers in the next phase of impact and innovation for this pioneering force.LSG's origin can be traced back to Ashley and Sacha's struggles with discrimination, beginning in their early years and persisting throughout their academic and adult lives. Their joint battle against housing and hotel discrimination, resulting in a five year lawsuit, ignited their unwavering commitment to forging a more just society. Encounters with maternal healthcare and employment disparities in adulthood further exposed the intricate web of systemic inequality and discrimination.Ashley and Sacha's experience in top consulting firms honed their strategy, compliance, and technology expertise. Yet, they spotted a crucial industry gap: many projects failed to aid the neediest communities, with profit-driven companies neglecting innovations for vulnerable populations. Fueled by their unwavering commitment to positive change, they founded LSG-a unique consulting and technology firm. LSG doesn't just pursue profit; it aims to boost life expectancy and elevate the quality of life for all. This created the world's first consulting and technology firm dedicated to this mission.LSG is a transformative consulting and technology powerhouse with an unwavering commitment to social impact. Their diverse clientele spans government agencies, corporations, public institutions, and international organizations including the City of Santa Monica, the Asia Society, and the City of Washington DC. They've led efforts in racial equity action plans, Vision Zero initiatives to eliminate traffic fatalities, and contributed significantly to a 6-week Kennedy Center exhibition on climate change. Central to LSG's mission is CLEONA, a groundbreaking AI-driven venture revolutionizing maternal care.CLEONA: Revolutionizing Maternal Care with Advanced AICLEONA is an AI-powered tool engineered to transform maternal health. By harnessing global maternal health expertise, CLEONA delivers highly personalized recommendations, dismantling disparities and preserving lives. CLEONA's unified technology ecosystem seamlessly integrates with prevalent maternal apps and medical systems to save lives by redefining prenatal and postpartum support, ensuring real-time access to critical health data and swift interventions. It's more than a solution; it's an essential lifeline for women.Ashley Bratton, Co-Founder of Leone Solutions Group, asserted, "Maternal health rates in the US are not acceptable! CLEONA is our robust response to this urgent situation. Our AI-driven tool isn't just a solution; it's a vital lifeline that will make an impact at scale. We are wholeheartedly committed to reversing the statistics, ensuring every woman receives the care and support she rightfully deserves." Leone Solutions Group is not only confronting the maternal health crisis head-on but also championing equity and social impact across sectors. "Almost two decades after our days at Georgetown, our vision has come to life in LSG," said Sacha Taylor, co-founder of LSG. "This Pre Seed funding round launch is more than a business milestone; it's the realization of a dream that began in our college dorm room. Together, we can make meaningful, lasting change." Leone Solutions Group is on a transformative journey, guided by the belief that technology can be a powerful force for positive change.For media inquiries, please contact:Victoria Winters, Executive Operations, Leone Solutions Groupvwinters@ leonesolutionsgroup.com LSG Press & Media KitAbout Leone Solutions Group (LSG):Leone Solutions Group (LSG) is a global consulting and technology firm committed to advancing positive societal change. Founded by Ashley Bratton and Sacha Taylor, LSG's mission is to increase life expectancy, improve the quality of life, and promote sustainable and inclusive growth for organizations in the private, public, and social sectors. With a strong focus on strategy, technology, and advocacy, LSG tackles complex problems by combining bold strategies with transformative technologies. The firm's diverse clientele includes government agencies, private corporations, public institutions, and international organizations.About CLEONA:CLEONA is a groundbreaking venture by Leone Solutions Group, leveraging advanced AI to revolutionize maternal care. This innovative tool delivers highly personalized recommendations, addressing maternal health disparities and saving lives worldwide. CLEONA's technology seamlessly integrates with existing maternal health solutions, providing real-time access to critical health data and swift interventions. CLEONA represents LSG's commitment to positive social impact and empowering expectant mothers with comprehensive care and support.SOURCE: Leone Solutions Group
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 18:04:05

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 347 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Proprietary Giving-as-a-Service ('GaaS') technology uses well-being goal achievement as the key to unlock corporate dollars for employee donation to causes aligned CSR, ESG and DEIB strategic objectives.GAITHERSBURG, MD / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Today Givhero, the startup backed by TEDCO (Maryland Technology Development Corporation), the University of Maryland Momentum Fund, and Conscious Ventures, announced the release of its 2nd generation social impact well-being platform that motivates employees to engage in programs across physical, social, emotional, financial, and cyber dimensions while delivering immediate well-being ROI on corporate philanthropy.Givhero Mobile Well-being Solution A global platform that lets HR Teams design, run and measure social impact well-being programs. Powered by proprietary Giving-as-a-Service (GaaS) financial technology, Givhero's fully automated solution lets employees' self-direct corporate donations to causes aligned with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives when program goals are achieved. "Our employees love the ability to direct donations to causes when they meet their well-being goals," said Susan Stephen, Director, Benefits & Wellbeing at IPG Health Group, adding that "Our HR team is really impressed with how easy implementation is; the platform automates program administration which saves us time and effort. We've really embraced the Givhero system." Givhero leverages its proprietary data lake of over 60M transactions to optimize programs for global employers including IPG Health, Appian, DraftKings and Rakuten Viber, increasing employee engagement by over 50%, reducing HR admin time by up to 80%, and compounding the impact of planned philanthropic budgets.About GivheroGivhero's mobile solution lets HR teams customize, run and measure social impact well-being programs globally, inspiring employees to improve their well-being and community by empowering them to direct corporate donation dollars to causes aligned with CSR, DEI and ESG initiatives when well-being goals are achieved. Powered by proprietary Giving-as-a-Service (GaaS) financial technology, Givhero increases employee participation by over 50%, reduces HR admin time by up to 80%, and generates immediate well-being ROI on corporate philanthropy.Please send media inquiries to info@ Givhero.com Contact InformationJohn Sheehan CRO john.sheehan@givhero.com SOURCE: Givhero
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 07:48:21

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 719 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Do you, or did you, own shares of Hayward Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: HAYW)?Did you purchase your shares between March 2, 2022 and July 27, 2022, inclusive?Did you lose money in your investment in Hayward Holdings, Inc.?Do you want to discuss your rights?NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action lawsuit that has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the common stock of Hayward Holdings, Inc. ("Hayward" or the "Company") (NYSE:HAYW) between March 2, 2022 and July 27, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the "Complaint").If you purchased or acquired Hayward common stock, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Hayward Holdings, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than October 2, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.The Complaint alleges that Defendants made materially false and misleading statements throughout the Class Period. Among other things, Defendants failed to disclose that: (i) Hayward and its management had engaged in a channel-stuffing scheme designed to artificially boost Hayward's short-term sales and earnings; (ii) Hayward had flooded its channel partners with inventory that they did not want or need at a level that far outpaced then-existing consumer demand; (iii) Hayward's channel partners were suffering from an inventory glut as a result of the channel-stuffing scheme that would require a massive de-stocking in the second half of 2022; (iv) Hayward's channel-stuffing scheme had cannibalized future sales, materially impairing Hayward Holdings' ability to sell to its customers; and (v) the demand for pool equipment had slowed down, which, combined with flooding channel partners with more inventory, led to an inventory glut and the need for these channel partners to reduce inventory levels.On July 28, 2022, Hayward reported poor second quarter 2022 results - the same quarter during which the SPO was conducted. Most notably, Hayward disclosed the need for a massive inventory de-stocking as its distribution partners had far more product than they could sell to consumers. Hayward slashed expected 2022 net sales growth from a range of 9% to 12% to a decline of 2% to 6%. In addition, Hayward cut expected 2022 adjusted earnings from a range of $460 million to $475 million to a range of just $385 million to $400 million, a 16% decline at the mid-point. Because Hayward had already achieved $254 million in adjusted earnings during the first six months of the year, at the low end of this range Hayward's adjusted earnings would fall by half over the next six months.On this news, Hayward's common stock declined $3.23 per share, or approximately 23.5%, to close at $10.48 per share on July 29, 2022.If you purchased or acquired Hayward common stock, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Hayward Holdings, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for sixteen consecutive years.ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2023 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.Contact Information:Peter AlloccoBernstein Liebhard LLP https://www.bernlieb.com(212) 951-2030pallocco@ bernlieb.com SOURCE: Bernstein Liebhard LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 04:55:15

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 706 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL / ACCESSWIRE / September 13, 2023 / Journey Connected, a boutique online travel agency, has announced the launch of its new website as of September 1, 2023. The updated website features the company's new interactive itinerary, as well as the company's novel City Guides feature.The interactive itinerary allows the travel artists at Journey Connected to load all details of the trip they are designing, including hotels, flights, etc. They can then attach confirmations to each item, and the resulting itinerary can be downloaded as a .PDF. This will include all supporting documentation referenced online or in an app.The team also uses this to load confirmed activities and suggestions, so that the itinerary can be used during the quoting and confirming process of trip planning. It was designed to take the gray area and ambiguity out of the process, ensuring all policies, costs, etc. are crystal clear to clients.There is also an interactive messaging/approval feature, which allows the guest to be in control at all times and see exactly where the trip is in the planning process.The City Guides service is a comprehensive library of information, available on the company website. Journey Connected is in the process of launching this new service, which will feature in-depth guides to cities around the world. The Guides allow travelers to search and learn about various destinations worldwide, and insights into the company's top picks for restaurants, hotels, activities, and more.The City Guides also provide an overview of each city being discussed, so that interested travelers can get a feel for what they can expect when visiting the city. For example, the Journey Connected City Guides features discuss what type of weather visitors can expect and how to dress and pack accordingly; what types of currency are and are not accepted; and other key travel details.Through these new services, the team at Journey Connected hopes to help clients experience less stress and frustration with their travel planning. The team at Journey Connected - referred to as travel artists - handle details from initial reservations to the final payment processes. Many clients select the comprehensive custom itinerary service, allowing them to experience a meticulously arranged and personalized holiday.Alternatively, Journey Connected offers advisory services for those who prefer to oversee their own reservation management. The team emphasizes a fully customizable approach to travel, accommodating varying degrees of client involvement. Each new feature on the brand's updated website is designed to curate a unique experience regardless of varying budgets or travel goals.Journey Connected is committed to harnessing cutting-edge technology with the goal of remaining at the pinnacle of technological advancements. The agency intends to pioneer AI-driven solutions, enhancing user experiences and fostering real-time connections among travelers. The team seeks to offer personalized experiences, using AI and data insights to offer uniquely tailored content, products, and services. Ethical practices and sustainability will be at the heart of their operations as they collaborate with partners to promote an eco-conscious digital landscape.Addressing modern health challenges, Journey Connected will incorporate health and well-being solutions, advocating for healthier lifestyles and mental well-being. Lastly, their platform will offer a seamless blend of the digital and physical realms, integrating effortlessly into daily life from smart homes to augmented reality.The Journey Connected team has planned over 5,000 vacations across 125 countries, and the multilingual team of travel artists are proficient in Spanish, English, Portuguese, and French. The majority of their clientele hails from the US and Canada, but they also have a significant presence in Mexico, Brazil, the UK, and Australia.Over the next few years - between now and 2028 - the team at Journey Connected has further updates planned as they pursue digital advancements. The company's aspirations include an expanded global footprint, with extended office networks and strategic partnerships on several continents, reinforcing their dedication to diminishing geographical barriers and benefitting both businesses and individuals internationally.About Journey ConnectedJourney Connected, founded in 2016, is a bespoke travel agency that offers an economical pay-per-day approach designed to provide unique travel experiences and amenities in sought-after destinations worldwide. The company has options for budget-friendly family travel, cruises, and/or full vacation itineraries.Website: https://www.journeyconnected.com Media contact: Audrey Williams at journeys@ journeyconnected.com SOURCE: Journey Connected
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 15:37:42

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 375 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

INDIANAPOLIS, IN / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / The KeyBank Foundation has awarded Indianapolis Neighborhood Housing Partnership (INHP) a $300,000 grant to continue its efforts to create or preserve affordable housing opportunities near Indianapolis transit lines as part of the city's first Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) program. Through this program, INHP acquires and holds properties within a half mile of IndyGo's 15-minute frequency routes to give developers time to prepare optimal site plans that will offer affordable housing for families earning low and moderate incomes.The funding will support costs to maintain and hold the properties in this land bank. Since 2018, INHP has acquired 17 ETOD properties and has sold seven to developers as it works to reach its goal of providing 1,000 affordable units to Indianapolis residents."INHP is grateful for KeyBank's generous support as a partner in the ETOD program," said Gina Miller, president and CEO of INHP. "These funds will allow us to sustain this strategy and achieve positive outcomes for the people and neighborhoods we serve." Studies show Indianapolis' families spend an average of 46 percent of their income on housing and transportation. Through the ETOD program, INHP is promoting housing choice and affordability while also providing access to jobs, education, healthcare, food and cultural amenities - all needed for economic mobility."INHP plays a pivotal role in the Indianapolis community connecting people to the necessary resources for affordable housing," said Juan Gonzalez, KeyBank's Central Indiana Market President. "Key is incredibly proud to support INHP and follow through on our commitment to help the organizations and residents we serve thrive. This partnership will not only strengthen our community, but it will provide equitable access to jobs, education, healthcare and more." Since 2017, Key has made community investments totaling more than $930 million in Central Indiana which supports low to moderate income individuals and neighborhoods through lending for affordable housing, small businesses, mortgage and transformative philanthropy.Group (L to R): Abigail Lane (director, community and development, Englewood Community Development Corporation), Gina Miller (president and CEO, INHP), Yvonne Harrington, Juan Gonzalez, Charlie Mercer (director of community lending, INHP) View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from KeyBank on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: KeyBankWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/keybankEmail: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: KeyBank
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 10:05:27

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 526 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

IBIZA, SPAIN / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / KlubCoin, the cryptocurrency, loyalty program and ecosystem behind premiere nightclubs such as Amnesia Ibiza, Bootshaus Germany, Clubbing TV, DJ Mag and many more will work with Berlin based Lunu to facilitate digital payments and help elevate the nightlife industry experience.Nightclubs, events and restaurants Premiere brands across Europe have partnered with Klubcoin to accept $KLUB tokens as payments in nightclubs, events, festivals, restaurants and more.With over 20,000 active users, KlubCoin has partnered with names such as Amnesia Ibiza, Eden Ibiza, Bootshaus Germany, Cova Santa, Caprice Festival, DICE, DJ Mag, 1001 Tracklists and many more electronic music & nightlife brands.KlubCoin continues to expand its ecosystem in the electronic music industry, providing users of Klubcoin perks such as access to sold-out events, cashback rewards, limited edition merch, as well as exclusive money-can't-buy experiences and more across a range of brands. The acceptance of digital payments such as $KLUB is another sign of the growing appetite among major brands supported by increasingly sophisticated payment infrastructure."We built KlubCoin as an ecosystem for the entire electronic music industry because we recognised the value that cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology provide for both businesses and brands as well as consumers. As the market expands, innovations like Lunu are allowing retailers to connect with new, younger, and more affluent audiences that are constantly expanding in size willing to use cryptocurrency as their main payment method in their everyday life," said Stephane Schweitzer, CEO of Klubcoin.KlubCoin will reportedly use Berlin-based payment provider Lunu to facilitate digital payments in the form of its native cryptocurrency $KLUB token and help electronic music brands across the globe with seamless POS integrations and online payment systems. The Lunu system combines a terminal and widget with a processing service that conducts instant transactions."We are eager to expand the scope of this technology, having previously seamlessly integrated Lunu and KlubCoin into clubs like Amnesia Ibizacthat currently accept cryptocurrencies as payment, we can now scale it for all partners of the KlubCoin ecosystem" continued Schweitzer.According to Lunu's website, this system, which is built on a group of distinct arbitrageurs, calculates the market price for the crypto-to-fiat exchange while system oracles keep an eye on and validate transactions in independent blockchains."This is a very important step in the growth of the electronic music industry and its artists, as well as the party-goers and elevating their experience. KlubCoin was designed specifically to meet the unique demands of the industry. We're proud to partner with Stephane and the Klubcoin ecosystem, catering to seamless user experiences, evolving customer base" commented Pavlo Denysiuk, CEO and Partner at Lunu Solutions GmbH.The majority of clubbers, i.e. KlubCoin and its partners' ideal customer base are millennials as well as Gen Z. They also happen to be the largest adopters of the crypto industry.The Berlin based company also recently announced partnerships with major luxury brands such as Off-White, as well as a major strategic partnership with global cryptocurrency exchanges Binance.Media DetailsCompany Name: KlubcoinContact Person: GaryBusiness Mail: info@ d-verse.ioWebsite: https://klubcoin.netCity and country: Ibiza, SpainSOURCE: Klubcoin
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 20:46:19

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 429 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

VILNIUS, LITHUANIA / ACCESSWIRE / September 13, 2023 / Lecksis, a groundbreaking platform at the intersection of communication, privacy, and e-commerce, is set to redefine how individuals and businesses interact, trade, and connect.Link to image - https://fex.net/ru/s/5a7vpon Putting Anonymity and Privacy FirstOffering unmatched privacy, all communications are fortified with end-to-end encryption, Lecksis ensures only the intended recipients can access messages. Crucially, Lecksis never stores user data.Lecksis also features a built-in VPN, offering a secure virtual tunnel for all communications. This means conversations are kept private, and IP addresses remain hidden.Lecksis' sign-up process also reflects its unwavering commitment to anonymity. You don't need to specify your phone number or e-mail, you can use an alias. You only need to memorise the Seed phrase to recover your password.Innovative Bot ConstructorProductivity takes centre stage with Lecksis' innovative bot builder. create and customise bots based using templates, automating tasks and processes. Whether streamlining business operations or personal activities, this tool empowers users to achieve more.A Seamless E-Commerce ExperienceLecksis redefines e-commerce, allowing users to create online stores within the app. Trade products and services directly to users, maintaining the highest standards of security and privacy. The innovative integration of the LEKS token offers seamless transactions and enhances user engagement.LEKS Token: Beyond TransactionsThe LEKS token, built on the Polygon blockchain and integrated into the Lecksis ecosystem, serves a multifaceted role. Beyond facilitating transactions, it rewards content creators, supports voting processes, and manages system functions. Lecksis' built-in wallet allows you to send money via the messenger through LEKS token, creating personalised interactions and meaningful conversations.AI AssistantLecksis introduces a revolutionary AI assistant, designed to enhance daily routines and well-being. From personalised schedules to reminders, tailored meal plans, and workout routines, this assistant is a personal life optimizer. It offers support, guidance, and organisation, tailored to individual needs.Empowering E-commerce VenturesEntrepreneurs will be at home with Lecksis. The platform's in-app website and store builder enable users to create and customise online stores, accept crypto payments, and offer subscription services. Lecksis supports dreamers, providing the tools to build, refine, and grow online businesses.APP RELEASE COMING SOON TO iOS AND ANDROIDFor Media InquiriesWebsite: https://lecksis.com/Whitepaper: lecksis.com/whitepaperInstagram: @lecksis_officialX: @Lecksisofficial)Telegram: @lecksisAbout Lecksis:Lecksis is an innovative platform that merges secure communication, anonymous messaging, AI assistance, and cryptocurrency integration. With an emphasis on privacy and user empowerment, Lecksis offers a unique environment where individuals and businesses can connect, trade, and thrive.CONTACT:Natalia MorozLecksis.customers@gmail.com+37062908985 SOURCE: Lecksis
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 16:22:49

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 966 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / MAGIC New York returns to the Javits Center September 19-21 highlighting women's trend, young contemporary and modern sportswear apparel, footwear and accessories for Spring/Summer 2024. MAGIC New York presents a growing modern sportswear segment, meeting continuous demand for young contemporary and trend driven brands. SOURCING at MAGIC co-locates with MAGIC to showcase key suppliers and manufacturers.MAGIC New York creates the opportunity for retailers to shop Spring/Summer 2024 on a curated cohesive show floor in women's apparel, accessories, footwear and home, gift and beauty. MAGIC New York brings a wide selection of modern sportswear brands to the show floor including Barefoot Dreams, Caite, Julian Lang, Ciao Milano and Veronica M. Retailers can shop high and low, explore private label opportunities as well as secure immediates.Launching this September and providing industry expertise to the fashion community, MAGIC New York debuts its first education series. Fashion Snoops Trend Forecaster Melissa Moyan and Kelly Helfman, President of Informa Markets Fashion, present the Top Trends To Shop Session on September 19, and a moderated conversation Curating for Curves: Strategies to Successfully Incorporate Extended Sizing with Gita Omri, Designer and Founder of Omri Essentials, Karen Cohen of MeMoi and Leonidas Monedas, CEO of Mat Fashion, moderated by Emily Benson, Founder at the Boutique Training Academy on September 20.Supporting efforts around industry wide sustainable and ethical practices, MAGIC will debut the Verified Sustainable by MAGIC program in partnership with Hey Social Good at the September show. Brands are vetted and ranked accordingly to recognize where they are in the journey to becoming more sustainable. This program helps buyers find sustainable brands more easily and trust that they have been verified based on meaningful data points."Enhancing our offerings not only through brand extension in both domestic and international categories but also increasing visibility into the breakdown of brands by specifications like sustainable, woman-owned, new to show and more, provides our customers a more tailored experience on the show floor with ease of access to multiple categories, ultimately saving time and creating a more intuitive buying experience," says Jordan Rudow, Vice President, MAGIC. "Introducing the education sessions provides opportunities to learn and enhances the resources that our community can acquire while attending MAGIC New York." Trending styles for Spring/Summer 2024 include rich neutrals, occasion sets and jumpsuits. Over 300 brands are set to showcase their lines, with a selection of woman-owned, new, international and extended size offerings. Retailers registered to attend MAGIC New York include Free People, Urban Outfitters, Tilly's, South Moon Under, Wantable, Nordstrom, Apricot Lane Boutique, Belk, Madrag and Pants Store.SOURCING at MAGIC New York co-locates with MAGIC New York hosting manufacturers and suppliers from 13 countries. This selection of exhibitors offers low minimum orders and expediency to market in the mid to contemporary price points. SOURCING at MAGIC highlights a curated variety of exhibitors and product categories including apparel, footwear, accessories, fabric and trim as well as packaging."The New York edition of SOURCING at MAGIC provides the sourcing community more opportunities to connect and source materials, expand their networks and implement new resources for their businesses throughout the year, says Andreu David, VP, SOURCING at MAGIC. "By emphasizing sustainability, we provide our audience with insights to make informed and sustainable choices across materials, supply chain services and manufacturing." The top buyers and retailers registered for SOURCING at MAGIC New York include Nicole Miller, PVH (Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger), Beall's Inc., Rag & Bone, American Eagle Outfitters, Kenneth Cole, Everlast, Macy's, New York & Co. and Robert Graham.Industry editors are encouraged to attend for the chance to meet with designers and speakers of interest. Members of the press can register to attend at www.reg.fashionresource.com For more information on how to attend or become an exhibitor, please visit www.magicfashionevents.com and www.sourcingatmagic.com Follow us on Instagram and Tiktok to stay connected.ABOUT INFORMA MARKETS FASHIONInforma Markets Fashion a division of Informa Markets, a subsidiary of Informa plc, (LON:INF), connects and inspires the global fashion community through online experiences, industry insights, and worldwide fashion trade events, including MAGIC, COTERIE, PROJECT, and SOURCING at MAGIC. From more effective manufacturing and supply chain opportunities to creative design inspiration and retail on the wholesale floor, Informa Markets Fashion's diverse portfolio supports the entire fashion ecosystem - fostering innovation and driving creativity year-round. For more information on upcoming events, please visit: www.findfashionevents.com ABOUT MAGIC NEW YORKMAGIC is a high-energy fashion experience and home to the industry's largest selection of modern sportswear, trend-driven and young contemporary apparel, footwear, and accessories. Fusing scale with curation to drive commerce, creativity, and connections, MAGIC joins a global audience of retail buyers - from big-box to boutique - with influencers, media, and industry thought leaders. More than just events, MAGIC is a deeply rooted community, and a place brands and retailers call home. For more information, please visit: www.magicfashionevents.com Follow us on Instagram and Tiktok to stay connected.Follow MAGIC New York on social and join the conversation: #MAGICNY, @Magicfashionevents, MAGIC on LinkedIn.ABOUT SOURCING at MAGIC NEW YORKSOURCING at MAGIC allows fashion businesses, brands and sourcing professionals to connect and collaborate with a community of global manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers. With a strong presence among international exhibitors and attendees and deep domestic connections, SOURCING at MAGIC is a global community. With a forward-thinking approach and commitment to the evolution of the global apparel supply chain, SOURCING at MAGIC consistently provides access to emerging fashion technology, solutions, sustainable resources, educational content, networking, and extended visibility into the industry's most critical global issues. For more information, please visit: www.sourcingatmagic.com Media Contacts:Abby PortwoodPR, Informa Markets Fashion fashionpr@ informa.com SOURCE: INFORMA MARKETS - FASHION
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 16:15:35

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 434 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Mary Kay"The Super Reefs team brings together reef governments and communities with experts in ocean science, conservation, and management from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Stanford University, and The Nature Conservancy, along with private sector support from Mary Kay at this critical moment in the history of coral reefs," says Dr. Elizabeth McLeod with The Nature Conservancy. (Credit: The Nature Conservancy)Mary Kay Inc., a global advocate for corporate sustainability and signatory to the UN Global Compact Sustainable Ocean Principles, continues to play an important role in ocean conservation. Earlier this year, the beauty brand launched a groundbreaking, user-friendly platform offering valuable guidance, decision-support tools, and practical knowledge for marine practitioners. Following the announcement, Mary Kay participated at the 10th World Ocean Summit and Expo 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal, organized by Economist Impact.The World Ocean Summit is an annual global event that brings together the widest cross-section of the ocean community, from business and finance to governments, national and international policymakers, civil society, and academia. Over 1,500 attendees from more than 100 countries attended the three-day summit, where 188 speakers addressed some of the most pressing challenges facing the ocean, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.Mary Kay Portugal's General Manager, Sandra Silva, was one of the distinguished panelists at the summit's "Putting Coral Reef Restoration at the Heart of Ocean Conservation Action" discussion, where she joined other notable speakers including Yabanex Batista from the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (United Nations), Tom Moore from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (Saudi Arabia), and Deborah Brosnan from Deborah Brosnan & Associates.The World Ocean Initiative transforms the momentum and focal point of the World Ocean Summit into a year-round program on the ocean that powers the full capabilities of Economist Impact, combining the ingenuity of a think-tank with the creativity of a media brand to engage a globally influential audience. The World Ocean Initiative seeks to enlighten, motivate, and cultivate better collaboration between businesses, policymakers, investors, scientists, and NGOs to seek solutions to the most pressing ocean challenges and opportunities.Mary Kay has been working to elevate ocean health and coral reef awareness through its partnership with The Nature Conservancy for over 32 years. One of the key projects Mary Kay supports is called "Super Reefs," which identifies, protects, and grows a global network of highly resilient coral reefs that can survive in a warming ocean.View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Mary Kay on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: Mary KayWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/mary-kayEmail: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Mary Kay
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 19:03:01

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 1016 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Metallic Minerals Corp. ( TSX.V:MMG)(OTCQB:MMNGF) ("Metallic Minerals" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on drilling at the La Plata copper-silver-gold-PGE project. The first phase of the 2023 campaign is testing extensions of high-grade mineralization seen in 2022 drill hole LAP22-04, which intercepted 816 meters of continuous mineralization grading 0.41% copper equivalent ("Cu Eq") with internal higher-grade zones. The hole ended in high-grade precious metal-rich mineralization grading 11.54% Cu Eq over 0.61 meters (5.42% Cu, 47.0 g/t Ag, 0.622 g/t Au, 5.016 g/t Pt and 5.393 g/t Pt).HighlightsOver 2,000 meters of a planned 5,000-meter Phase 1 drill program designed to expand the existing resource have been completed.Hole LAP23-05 was completed to a depth of 909 meters, while hole LAP23-06 is ongoing at a depth of approximately 1,150 meters. Both these 2023 drill holes have intersected altered porphyry mineralization with visible copper sulfide including chalcopyrite and bornite similar to that seen in LAP22-04 (see Figure 1-2).Initial assay results are expected in the coming weeks and continuing into early 2024.Results of the 2023 drilling have potential to expand the size of the current resource and increase the overall grade of the deposit with the inclusion of precious metals assays for gold, platinum and palladium in addition to copper and silver in the current resource.Metallic Minerals has filed a National Instrument 43-101 technical report for the expanded resource estimate announced in July 2023.The 2023 field campaign is being funded by a strategic equity investment announced in May whereby Newcrest Mining Limited acquired a 9.5% ownership position in Metallic Minerals with the goal of accelerating advancement of the La Plata project.Scott Petsel, Metallic Minerals' President, stated, "The team is excited about the progress and initial indications from our current drill program at La Plata. Last year's exceptional hole LAP22-04 was a major discovery of higher-grade copper and precious metal-rich, porphyry-style, mineralization starting from surface. These first two drill holes are offset holes drilled above and below LAP22-04 to test extensions of mineralization away from that discovery hole to potentially expand the resource and test the scale of size of this higher-grade zone of mineralization. The results of this program are expected to form the basis of an updated resource estimate. This program will also assist in vectoring to the strongest parts of the mineralized system as we work to maximize the opportunity to advance this potential Tier 1 asset." The Allard deposit remains open to significant expansion within the resource area to the east, north and west and to depth, with the potential to add gold, platinum and palladium to the current copper and silver resource with the completion of additional exploration drilling. In addition, the larger porphyry system at the La Plata project, which covers an area of over 10 km2, remains underexplored with the potential for new discoveries of both additional copper porphyry centers, as well as high-grade epithermal silver and gold systems.Upcoming EventsPrecious Metals Summit PresentationMetallic Minerals CEO, Greg Johnson, will be presenting live from the 2023 Precious Metals Summit in Beaver Creek, Colorado, on September 14th at 4:30 pm Mountain time. Click here to view the presentation.Adelaide Capital PresentationMetallic, as well as fellow Metallic Group members Stillwater Critical Minerals and Granite Creek Copper, will be presenting at the Wildfire Relief series hosted by Adelaide Capital on September 22nd at 3:30 ET. Click here to register.121 Investment ConferenceMetallic Minerals will be participating in 1-1 meetings at 121 Global Online September 26th & 27th. Find registration information here.Figure 1. Cross Section Through Allard Resource Area Showing New 2023 Drill HolesFigure 2. Photograph from Hole LAP23-06, 480.0m to 489.0m - High Quartz-Sulfide Vein Density in Altered Syenite.Corporate UpdateMetallic Minerals announces that Susan Henderson has been appointed to the role of Corporate Secretary, effective immediately. Ms. Henderson has worked in expanding roles with the Company since 2016, most recently in the role of Business Manager. Ms. Henderson replaces Alicia Milne who has stepped down. Ms. Milne will continue as a consultant to the Company.Greg Johnson, CEO of Metallic Minerals, stated, "We very much appreciate Alicia's exceptional work and dedication as Corporate Secretary over the past years and we wish her continued success in her new venture. Susan has been an integral part of the Metallic Group since its inception and invaluable in enabling our growth and expansion. We are very pleased to further expand her role to that of Corporate Secretary." NI 43-101 Technical ReportFurther to the news release dated July 31, 2023, Metallic Minerals has filed a National Instrument 43-101 technical report, entitled, "Technical Report on the Mineral Resource Estimate for the Allard Cu-Ag Porphyry Deposit, La Plata Project, Southwestern Colorado" with an effective date of July 12th, 2023. The report is available on the Company's profile at www.sedar.com and on our website at www.metallic-minerals.com About Metallic MineralsMetallic Minerals Corp. is a leading exploration and development stage company focused on copper, silver, gold, and other critical minerals in the La Plata mining district in Colorado, and silver and gold in the high-grade Keno Hill and Klondike districts of the Yukon. Our objective is to create shareholder value through a systematic, entrepreneurial approach to making exploration discoveries, growing resources, and advancing projects toward development.At the Company's La Plata project in southwestern Colorado, the new 2023 NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate identifies a significant porphyry copper-silver resource containing 1.21 Blbs copper and 17.6 Moz of silver1. The 2022 expansion drilling provided the basis for the updated resource, including the longest and highest-grade interval ever encountered at La Plata and one of the top intersections for any North American copper project in the past several years. In May 2023, the Company announced a 9.5% strategic investment by Newcrest Mining Limited to accelerate the advancement of the Company's La Plata project. In the 2023 Fraser Institute's Annual Survey of Mining Companies, Colorado ranked 5th globally for investment attractiveness and 2nd in the USA.In Canada's Yukon Territory, Metallic Minerals has consolidated the second-largest land position in the historic high-grade Keno Hill silver district, directly adjacent to Hec
Israeli police officers arrived in Uman to provide additional security during the Rosh Hashanah celebration, the press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine said.

"Together with Ukrainian police officers, they serve in Hasidic pilgrimage places. Today, foreign colleagues will go on patrol together with Ukrainian police officers and members of the National Guard," the ministry said on the Telegram channel.

During the day, 8,726 Hasidic pilgrims crossed the state border of Ukraine at checkpoints. In total, only about 30,000 pilgrims are expected to arrive.

In order to ensure fire and technogenic safety for the period from September 12 to 19, a combined detachment of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine will be deployed in Cherkasy region,

In addition, a mobile control center of the State Emergency Service, a tactical fire robot, a canine crew and a crew on a special radiation and chemical reconnaissance vehicle were involved in ensuring safety. In places where pilgrims gather in large numbers, seven posts are monitored around the clock. Additionally, foot patrols of the State Emergency Service were involved.

As reported, as of Thursday morning, about 22 thousand pilgrims arrived in Uman.

In 2023, Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year) will be celebrated from September 15 to 17.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 19:02:42

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 956 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Huntington Learning Center Offers Key Insights as an Advocate for the Continuation of Federally Funded Learning Programs NationwideORADELL, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Huntington Learning Center, the nation's leading tutoring and test prep provider, seeks to deepen its commitment to giving every student the best education possible as the organization expands its Private-Public Partnerships nationwide. Amid discussions of discontinuing American Rescue Plan learning recovery programs, Huntington's partnerships with school districts throughout the US validate the ongoing need to provide supplemental learning.Huntington Learning Center In the summer of 2020, before the American Rescue Plan was passed and $190B of federal funding was committed to combating COVID-19 learning loss, Huntington was already providing supplemental learning programs for students impacted by school closures. Huntington's flagship summer programs aimed at combating COVID-19 learning issues resulted in an average grade level increase of 1.3 in reading and 2.1 in math for 30 students in just 48 hours of one-to-one instruction. The results established Huntington's programming as the leading provider of supplemental learning for K-12 students. This led to the success Huntington is seeing today with their public-private partnerships with school districts across the country.The 2022 NAEP Nation's Report Card revealed "national average score declines in mathematics for fourth- and eighth-graders were the largest ever recorded in that subject." Today, Huntington students are improving their Reading and Math scores by 33% and 35% with only 50 hours of instruction. At this level, Huntington's student results are shown to overcome COVID-19 learning loss as indicated in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP).The Huntington case study results below support the ongoing success of their federally-backed, supplemental learning programs in school districts across the country.A publicly-funded partnership with the Skokie, IL, school district in 2021 offered one-to-one, in-person, and small group instruction to a group of 30 students, grades 4-8, for 48 hours of tutoring in reading and math. Average reading improvement: 1.3-grade level increase. Average math improvement: 2.1-grade level increase.A publicly-funded partnership with the Bronx, NY, Charter School for Excellence in 2022 conducted 42-63 hours of in-person, small group instruction in reading and math for 15 students in grades K-8, Average reading improvement: 0.6-grade level increase. Average math improvement: 1.1 grade level increase.In Indiana, Huntington has received a "Grade A" in service delivery and a "Grade A-" in customer satisfaction from families and educators. The Ohio Department of Education scored Huntington at a 12, the highest attainable score for providers working with students as part of the American Rescue Plan.The results from these outreach programs confirm the effort and energy Huntington is putting behind their dedicated Public Private Partnerships division as part of their 46th year of operation is the right move for students, families, and franchisees alike. Students continue to benefit from Huntington's public-private partnerships in the following states, and the list is growing. Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Tennessee, Washington, Colorado, New Mexico, Kansas, Mississippi, North Carolina and Delaware."Huntington has always served areas of the education sector that are most in need, as evidenced by our leading efforts over 20 years ago during 'No Child Left Behind,' which continues today as we provide academic services under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)," said Anne Huntington Sharma, President and Board Member of Huntington Learning Center."Pandemic school closures were unprecedented," she continued, "and Huntington made sure to lean on this experience and immediately pivot our programming. We've been through recessions, testing, and grading changes. Throughout our 46 years, we have helped over a million students and families overcome those obstacles."Now is not the time to pull back on supplemental programming for students. The recent national report card proved that. An equally important skills gap families are witnessing is the social and emotional impact of disrupted classroom time. Huntington conducted a nationwide parent survey that revealed those soft skills are of significant concern for parents immediately following the onset of the pandemic. We know one-to-one and small group instruction serves to benefit growth in these areas as well, building their confidence and motivation to succeed."Our dedicated Private Public Partnerships division has opened even more opportunities to provide K-12 instructional services to public, charter, and non-public schools inclusive of private, religious, and military schools. We teach students with deeply remedial needs and special education needs, as well as general education. When students need us, Huntington is here to help," Sharma concluded.Huntington, which appointed Sharma as President in 2019 on the heels of her success spearheading the largest footprint expansion in company history, continues to focus on leading their legacy organization forward with innovative changes to their operations and a major digital transformation benefitting both families and franchise owners. The achievements have not gone unnoticed with Huntington earning awards from Entrepreneur, Franchise Business Review, FranServe, and the International Franchise Association in the past 12 months alone.For more information on how Huntington is addressing unfinished learning nationwide and how your school can engage in their high dosage, publicly funded K-12 services, visit the Publicly Funded Partnerships site and contact publiclyfundedprograms@ hlcmail.com About Huntington Learning CenterHuntington Learning Center is the nation's leading tutoring and test prep provider. We offer customized programs in person, online, and hybrid options. Our certified teachers provide individualized instruction in phonics, reading, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, Algebra through Calculus, Chemistry, and other sciences. It preps for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams. Huntington's programs develop the skills, confidence, and motivation to help students succeed and meet the needs of Common Core State Standards. Huntington is accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Founded in 1977, Huntington's mission is to give every studen
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 19:15:50

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 480 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

The European Alliance to Save Energy (EU-ASE) welcomes Owens Corning as a key partner to advance energy efficiency and contribute to a more sustainable Europe.BRUSSELS, BELGIUM / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / The European Alliance to Save Energy is delighted to announce that Owens Corning, a global building and construction materials leader, mainly known in Europe for its insulation (PAROC, FOAMGLAS, Pittsburgh Corning) and composites businesses (Owens Corning Composite Materials), is joining EU-ASE as its newest member.Owens Corning has a long history of developing innovative, energy-saving solutions, and collaborating with a broad range of stakeholders to drive excellence and best practices in the field of material innovation and energy efficiency.Monica Frassoni, President of the European Alliance to Save Energy (EU-ASE), said: "We are very happy to welcome Owens Corning as a member of the European Alliance to Save Energy. As a multinational company known for its innovative and forward-looking solutions, Owens Corning is a great match with our ambition to promote the energy efficiency agenda on a European level. We look forward to drawing from their global experience and working on this agenda together." Federica Rizzo, Regulatory and Sustainability Senior Counsel European Region at Owens Corning commented: "Owens Corning is honored to join the European Alliance to Save Energy (EU-ASE). This is an exciting opportunity to strengthen our partnerships with key stakeholders and continue to build a sustainable future through material innovation. We are committed to the European Green Deal objectives and will continue to share best practices and knowledge across industries on key sustainability topics, such as energy efficiency, sustainability, and digitalization, while contributing to the green transition in Europe." Media contact: Luigi Petito Head of Secretariat info@ euase.eu About The European Alliance to Save Energy (EU-ASE) The European Alliance to Save Energy (EU-ASE) is a cross-sectoral, business-led organisation that ensures that the voice of energy efficiency is heard across Europe. EU-ASE members have operations across the 27 Member States of the European Union, employ over 340.000 people in Europe and have an aggregated annual turnover of 115 billion.About Owens Corning Owens Corning is a global building and construction materials leader committed to building a sustainable future through material innovation. Our three integrated businesses - Composites, Insulation, and Roofing - provide durable, sustainable, energy-efficient solutions that leverage our unique material science, manufacturing, and market knowledge to help our customers win and grow. We are global in scope, human in scale with approximately 19,000 employees in 31 countries dedicated to generating value for our customers and shareholders and making a difference in the communities where we work and live. Founded in 1938 and based in Toledo, Ohio, USA, Owens Corning posted 2022 sales of $9.8 billion. For more information, visit www.owenscorning.com View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Owens Corning on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: Owens CorningWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/owens-corningEmail: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Owens Corning
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 17:00:21

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 650 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Company Continues Targeted Growth, Expands Presence with Bellevue, Nebraska LocationBELLEVUE, NE / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Penn Station East Coast Subs, a fast-casual sandwich franchise, continues expansion across the Midwest. The franchise is thrilled to announce the opening of another location in the Omaha, Nebraska market. The new location is the third Penn Station East Coast Subs for local franchise group, PS Omaha. This expansion marks growth in a target market for a brand committed to delivering high-quality, East Coast-inspired sandwiches.PS Omaha's third location is slated to open this month at 10531 S 15th St. Suite 101, Bellevue, Nebraska, 68123. The group consists of Steve Wagner, managing owner, John Gerbus, Todd Fetter and Kieran Fetter. Owning and operating Wings and Rings franchises in addition to Penn Station East Coast Subs locations, the multi-unit franchise group is excited to continue their expansion in the area."Nebraska is a market that we've focused on growing from a strategic standpoint," said Craig Dunaway, Chief Operating Officer for Penn Station East Coast Subs. "We are very excited to add another Penn Station to service our customers in the Omaha-Council Bluffs area. I think this shows the growth our franchisees can achieve with our great support system and commitment to a quality customer experience." The group opened their first two Penn Station East Coast Subs locations in 2020 and later signed up to open additional stores with a multi-unit development agreement. The immense support from the brand, their savvy business skills, and diverse backgrounds in banking, restaurants, and entrepreneurship allowed the group to continue to open more locations. Their two other Penn Station East Coast Subs locations in Omaha are located at 168th & Center and 80th & Dodge. The group is certainly not finished growing and has their sights set on additional locations in the future."We believe that the Omaha market is one of the top markets for growth. The economic diversity and range of industries here bring in lots of opportunity," said Kieren Fetter of PS Omaha. "This new location is a message to the local community that we're here to provide great food, great service, and local job opportunities. We have a lot ahead of us with Penn Station East Coast Subs." PS Omaha utilized the new Target Growth Area Development Incentive Program* Penn Station East Coast Subs offers franchisees in target markets. Through this program, eligible franchisees receive a reduced initial fee structure including zero royalties for the first six months (180 days) and  off the initial franchise fee to help offset some of their start-up costs.The Target Growth Area Incentive Program was designed to help bolster Penn Station East Coast Subs' brand in strategically chosen markets. Picked for their high growth potential, the Incentive Program focuses on the following states:AlabamaMissouriGeorgiaNebraskaIllinoisNorth CarolinaIowaPennsylvaniaKansasVirginiaSouth CarolinaMichiganTennesseeMississippiPenn Station East Coast Subs is renowned for its signature Philadelphia cheesesteaks, mouthwatering made-to-order grilled subs, cold deli classic sandwiches, salads, wraps, fresh-cut fries, chocolate chunk cookies and fresh-squeezed lemonade. With a commitment to quality, the brand prides itself on using freshly baked bread, premium meats, and fresh produce to create unforgettable sandwiches that transport diners to the heart of the East Coast.For more information on Penn Station East Coast Subs, visit https://penn-station.com/ For franchise information and to learn more about franchise business opportunities and the Target Growth Area Incentive, visit https://penn-station.com/franchise/ ###About Penn Station East Coast Subs :Jeff Osterfeld started the award-winning sandwich chain in 1985 in Dayton, Ohio. Three years later, he sold his first Penn Station franchise. Today, there are more than 300 Penn Station East Coast Subs franchises in the U.S. serving high-quality products grilled and baked to perfection. The privately-owned franchise business serves premium products that have won numerous awards. Learn more about Penn Station East Coast Subs and franchise opportunities at penn-station.com Media Contact:Abby MitchellAMitchell@919 marketing.com SOURCE: Penn Station East Coast Subs
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 18:04:20

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 425 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

An Immigrant Experience Through PoetryMIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Released a month before Hispanic Heritage Month, Renzo Del Castillo's "Still" is a collection of poems that reflects an all-too relatable tale for all immigrants.Still Cover Image Still Cover Image After migrating to Florida from Peru as a child, Del Castillo built a life in a new country with a foundation forged in his native land, caught in the space between cultures. This led him to write "Still" [Indie Earth Publishing, $24.99], an exploration of the immigrant experience through reflections of memory and transition, an adaptation to new cultures and geographies through the ethnographic lens of Miami. His story, told in verse, is that of many immigrants."Still" is a collection of poems that focuses on the immigrant experience: a family's journey from Lima, Peru to Miami, Florida as political refugees and asylum seekers and the impact that had on the life of a boy as he grew into a man."We left Peru when I was five because my family had received death threats from a terrorist organization. We went from being comfortable to starting from zero. I knew I would have to adapt to make a life worth living," says Del Castillo.As we enter National Hispanic Heritage Month, Still provides a read that is as timely as it is pertinent. With poems in three languages, the book looks to bridge the divide between cultures, highlighting Hispanics' shared experience in his poetry. When the reader finds something to relate to in these pages, a dialogue starts and shows people aren't that different underneath it all.That heritage of terror and exile that sometimes underlies these poems gives them a sense of history within the lyric confusions of a single life. There is an intimate tone, used to remind the reader that imagination triumphs over, or sometimes through, adversity. "Still" was released July 30, 2023, and is available wherever books are sold (ISBN: 979-8988037996).ABOUT THE AUTHORRenzo Del Castillo holds a B.A. in English from University of Florida, specializing in Victorian Literature, and an M.A. in Mass Communications, specializing in Intercultural Communications. Del Castillo has been published in Literary Yard, the Acentos Review, the Scarlet Leaf Review, and the Ekphrastic Review. He lives in Miami, where his family also resides.###For interviews and a copy of Still, contact Flor Mireles at indieearthpublishinghouse@ gmail.com Contact InformationFlor Mireles Editor-in-Chief indieearthpublishinghouse@ gmail.com (305) 510-8445Related FilesStill Boletin de Prensa.docx SOURCE: Indie Earth Publishing
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 15:56:27

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 514 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Luminar Media Group, Inc. (OTC PINK:LRGR), the makers of Royale de Monte Carlo "The World's Most Prestigious Vodka," are proud to announce a groundbreaking collaboration with Synergy Promotions, an established leader in curating promotional events. The strategic partnership, officially launching on September 15, 2023, aims to redefine the vodka landscape across Florida, promising increased brand visibility and a premium consumer experience characterized by luxury and exclusivity.Florida, a robust market with approximately 22 million residents and over 2000 liquor stores, is a hotspot for vodka producers. The state witnesses the sale of over 7.5 million cases of vodka annually, revealing a market teeming with potential. The collaboration is meticulously crafted to seize a substantial market share, introducing more Floridians to Royale de Monte Carlo's ultra-premium vodka-a beacon of quality and sophistication."This partnership with Synergy Promotions is a pivotal step in extending our reach in the vibrant Florida market," affirmed Juan Sese, Chief Operating Officer at Royale de Monte Carlo. "We are optimistic that this venture will boost off-the-shelf sales and foster enduring relationships with vodka aficionados and liquor store proprietors statewide." Wendy Salto, President of Synergy Promotions, reciprocated the enthusiasm while highlighting her organization's 15-year legacy of forging successful alliances. "Synergy is prepared to utilize its extensive industry connections to propel Royale de Monte Carlo to new heights, magnifying both brand recognition and revenue avenues," said Salto.To keep consumers engaged and well-informed, regular updates featuring compelling content will be shared on Royale de Monte Carlo's official Instagram page: @Royaledemontecarlovodka. Synergy Promotions encourages everyone to stay updated with the latest developments through its official Instagram: @Synergypromos and website: www.synergypromotes.com About Royale de Monte Carlo/ Luminar Media Group, Inc.Boasting offices in Miami, Florida, and distilled in the iconic Cognac region of France, Royale de Monte Carlo epitomizes ultra-premium vodka. This luxury beverage is adored globally for its refreshing coolness and impeccably smooth taste, crafted meticulously by fifth-generation master distillers in France. For further details, visit www.royaledemontecarlo.com About Synergy PromotionsWith a 15-year illustrious journey in the industry, Synergy Promotions stands as a testament to dedication and perseverance. They have fostered potent partnerships with major distributors including Republic National Distributors Corp (RNDC) and Mexcor. For a full list of suppliers and distributors represented by Synergy Promotions, visit www.synergypromotes.com or their Instagram @Synergypromo. Their expertise in enhancing brand visibility and sales through adept customer education and product showcasing has carved a unique niche in the market.Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements concerning the prospective business opportunities of Royale de Monte Carlo/ Luminar Media Group, Inc. These statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions, and it is recommended to exercise caution due to inherent uncertainties. Further details on potential risks are available in the periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov Investor Relations ContactRobert Rico Royale de Monte Carlo Ph: 305-283-9237For Media InquiriesWendy Salto Ph: 305-495-7050 Email: info@ synergypromotes.com SOURCE: Luminar Media Group, Inc.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 07:48:05

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 564 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Do you, or did you, own shares of RTX Corporation (NYSE: RTX)?Did you purchase your shares between February 8, 2021 and July 25, 2023, inclusive?Did you lose money in your investment in RTX Corporation?Do you want to discuss your rights?NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / Septenber 14, 2023 / Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action lawsuit that has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the securities of RTX Corporation f/k/a Raytheon Technologies Corporation ("RTX" or the "Company") (NYSE:RTX) between February 8, 2021 and July 25, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the "Complaint").If you purchased or acquired RTX securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit RTX Corporation Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than October 2, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.The Complaint alleges that Defendants made materially false and misleading statements throughout the Class Period. Among other things, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that RTX's geared turbofan ("GTF") engines had been affected from at least 2015 by a quality control issue, which would require RTX to recall and reinspect many of its GTF airplanes, affecting customers and harming its business.On July 25, 2023, Reuters released an article entitled "RTX shares tumble on Pratt & Whitney airliner engine problem," which reported that "more than 1,000 [GTF] engines must [be] removed from Airbus planes and checked for microscopic cracks." Reuters further reported that "RTX said it was reducing its 2023 cash-flow forecast by $500 million to $4.3 billion due to the inspections." On this news, RTX's share price fell $9.91 per share, or 10.2%, to close at $87.10 on July 25, 2023.If you purchased or acquired RTX securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit RTX Corporation Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for sixteen consecutive years.ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2023 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.Contact Information:Peter AlloccoBernstein Liebhard LLP https://www.bernlieb.com(212) 951-2030pallocco@ bernlieb.com SOURCE: Bernstein Liebhard LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 15:15:58

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 453 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / In the ever-changing world of trading, where complexities and uncertainties often dominate, finding a guiding light that leads to consistent success can be a game-changing experience. One company that is truly making its mark in the field of trading education is SAC Traders, an innovative institution led by the visionary Osmel Garcia.Osmel's journey of trial and triumph forms the bedrock of SAC Traders' teaching philosophy. He understood the challenges that Spanish-speaking individuals faced in the trading world: limited access to clear and reliable information, resulting in misguided actions and untapped potential. This realization inspired him to create SAC Traders, a pioneering institution that challenges norms by delivering practical knowledge, results-driven strategies, and a community-centric approach.SAC Traders doesn't merely teach trading techniques; it's about shaping mindsets and empowering individuals to take control of their financial futures. The company's dedication to education transcends the trading realm; it serves as a guiding beacon of financial literacy in a world where misinformation and uncertainty can impede progress.Backed by a solid track record of consistent and profitable trading, SAC Traders has earned recognition from esteemed brokers like NinjaTrader and Folionet, both regulated in the United States. This recognition underscores SAC Traders' commitment to excellence and the unparalleled education it provides.The impact of SAC Traders is undeniable. Osmel's unique teaching style and his knack for simplifying complex concepts deeply resonate with his students. From hosting free monthly courses that draw hundreds of participants to cultivating a community of successful and consistent traders, SAC Traders is leaving an indelible mark on the world of trading education.More than just imparting knowledge, SAC Traders instigates a shift in mindset, equipping individuals with the mental resilience required to surmount challenges and seize opportunities. Success stories from SAC Traders' alumni, who have transitioned from financial struggles to freedom, vividly underscore the efficacy of the company's approach.Looking to the future, SAC Traders harbors ambitious plans to expand its influence. Osmel's vision of traversing the Americas to offer top-tier trading education to Spanish-speaking individuals exemplifies the company's dedication to financial empowerment. SAC Traders envisions auditoriums filled not only with eager learners but with individuals whose lives have been genuinely transformed through education, empowerment, and actionable steps.About SAC Traders:SAC Traders, under the leadership of Osmel Garcia, stands as a pioneering institution in the trading education sphere. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to excellence, SAC Traders delivers comprehensive trading education, results-driven strategies, and a supportive community for individuals aspiring to achieve consistent and profitable trading outcomes. With a focus on empowering Spanish-speaking traders, SAC Traders bridges the gap between trading education and tangible success.Contact:Paula Henderson561-768-4444phendersonnews@ gmail.com SOURCE: SAC Traders
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 07:49:20

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 615 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Do you, or did you, own shares of Sea Limited (NYSE: SE)?Did you purchase your shares between April 19, 2021 and May 15, 2023, inclusive?Did you lose money in your investment in Sea Limited?Do you want to discuss your rights?NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action lawsuit that has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the securities of Sea Limited ("Sea" or the "Company") (NYSE:SE) between April 19, 2022 and May 15, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the "Complaint").If you purchased or acquired Sea securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Sea Limited Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than September 17, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.The Complaint alleges that Defendants made materially false and misleading statements throughout the Class Period. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (i) Sea overstated its ability to manage the growth of its user base and loan book while enhancing its profitability; (ii) Sea's expansion to a broader user base and growing loan book rendered the Company significantly more vulnerable to higher credit losses; (iii) as a result, the Company was likely to book a significant increase in loan loss reserves; and (iv) the foregoing was likely to have a significant negative impact on Sea's earnings.On May 16, 2023, Sea issued a press release announcing its financial results for the first quarter of 2023. Among other items, Sea reported first-quarter earnings that fell significantly short of expectations due to a sharp increase in loan loss reserves. The Company advised that "[o]ur provision for credit losses increased by 120.5% to US$177.4 million in the first quarter of 2023 from US$80.5 million in the first quarter of 2022, primarily driven by expansion to a broader user base and the growth of our loan book"On this news, Sea's American Depositary Share ("ADS") price fell almost 18%.If you purchased or acquired Sea securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Sea Limited Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for sixteen consecutive years.ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2023 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.Contact Information:Peter AlloccoBernstein Liebhard LLP https://www.bernlieb.com(212) 951-2030pallocco@ bernlieb.com SOURCE: Bernstein Liebhard LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 17:00:43

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 421 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

TAMPA, FL / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Single mothers in Tampa Bay are invited to register for free classes and a support group entitled "It's a Single Mom Thing," hosted by Shepherd's Village, a non-profit resource for single mothers and their children based in Largo, Florida. Beginning Oct. 12, 2023, the group will meet every month on the second and fourth Tuesday at Starkey Road Baptist Church's Fellowship Center, 8800 Starkey Road, Seminole, Florida.Single moms of all ages are welcome, whether they have never been married or are divorced, separated or widowed. Mothers and their children are invited to a "Meal and Mingle" time from 5:45-6:15 p.m., followed by an enriching, supportive class and group session from 6:30-8 p.m. Free childcare (pre-K and up) is provided, and moms with infants are welcome to bring them to class. A nursing mother's room is also available."Single moms want to do more than just survive; they want to thrive. They invest so much in their children, and Shepherd's Village wants to provide an opportunity for them to invest in themselves," says April McKnight, Executive Director of the organization. "This group will be a safe place to access resources, talk through ideas or challenges, and find comfort when they feel overwhelmed or alone." "There are over 55,000 single moms in Pinellas County alone, so we're excited to partner with Shepherd's Village in a shared desire to minister well to single moms. We believe the church should be a place where anyone can find hope, encouragement, and resources at any stage or circumstance of life," states Pastor Derek Parker of Starkey Road Baptist Church.Registration is required. For more information and to register, please visit the Shepherd's Village website at www.shepherdsvillage.com/classes About Shepherd's VillageBased in Tampa Bay, Florida, Shepherd's Village stands in the gap for single mothers and their children. While we are the only faith-based single-mother housing program in Pinellas County, Florida, we have expanded our free online offerings so more women across the country can experience healing, safety, and restoration. With our partners' help, we can reach two generations at once and make an impact that will outlive us.There is hope beyond the brokenness and confusion caused by divorce, separation, death or never having been married. If you know a single mother in need, please direct them to our website for life-changing resources: https://shepherdsvillage.com/ Contact InformationSherry Chandler Creative Communications Coordinator sherry@ shepherdsvillage.com 727-216-1402 ext. 508SOURCE: Shepherd's Village
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 13:30:50

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 1010 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

ST JOHNS, NL / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Sokoman MineralsCorp. (TSXV:SIC)(OTCQB:SICNF) ("Sokoman" or the "Company") is pleased to provide the following update on the ongoing drilling program at the 100%-owned Moosehead gold project. Diamond drilling in the 463 Zone and adjoining footwall environment has intersected gold mineralization which helps to determine the plunge of the favourable structure hosting the 463 Zone and other proximal parallel mineralized zones in the footwall under the main Eastern Trend. The best intersections from the drill holes reported today are MH-23-536 and 542, which targeted the down-plunge extension of the 463 Zone which has an earlier intercept of 39.60 m grading 12.50 g/t Au including 10.5 m @ 41.97 g/t Au (see the December 15, 2022 news release).Tim Froude, President and CEO of Sokoman, says: "Drilling will continue at Moosehead with two rigs, focused mainly on testing the Alpha IP targets outlined last winter. We have also begun trenching near-surface IP anomalies and soil geochemical anomalies. We are also defining a deeper target, below 500 metres, using our understanding of the structural geology of the main Eastern Trend from consultant, Dr. David Coller. We expect to be drilling until the Christmas break." The table below gives the drill results for the 463, South Pond, and 75 Zones and also several reconnaissance holes.*80-90% true thicknessDrill Plan MapDrill holes MH-23-536 and 542 were drilled to follow up a 1.4 m intersection of visible gold-bearing quartz veins that gave 12.41 g/t Au from 409.75 m downhole (see the April 13, 2023 news release) an 80 m step-out, 56 m down plunge, from MH-22-463 in the 463 Zone. Results indicate that the zone remains open down-plunge. Other holes testing the 463 Zone area returned only anomalous results.The South Pond drilling focused on the down-plunge extension of drill holes MH-20-123 - 5.00 m @ 26.87 g/t Au and MH-20-141 - 4.20 m @ 64.00 g/t Au (see the July 20, 2021 news release). Multiple zones of lower-grade gold mineralization were intersected suggesting the zone remains open to depth.The 75 Zone was tested with three holes with only one hole (MH-23-529) giving significant mineralization. Additional drilling is planned to try to extend the high-grade mineralization intersected in MH-21-263 that gave 4.80 m @ 12.86 g/t Au.Reconnaissance holes include MH-23-538, 539, 541, 543, and 544 drilled near the Bowtie area to the north of North Pond, with MH-23-545 drilled near the northeastern property boundary testing a mag high. Only one hole, MH-23-539, returned anomalous gold values.The Company has started testing IP targets defined by the winter Alpha IP survey that defined several first- and second-priority targets below and to the west of the Western Trend as well as targets in the 253 Zone, 200 m to the east of the main Eastern Trend. Results of the first two holes MH-23-547 and 549, testing the Western Trend area, are pending.QPThis news release has been reviewed and approved by Timothy Froude, P.Geo., a "Qualified Person" under National Instrument 43-101 and President and CEO of Sokoman Minerals Corp.Analytical Techniques / QA/QCSamples, including duplicates, blanks, and standards, were submitted to Eastern Analytical Ltd. in Springdale, Newfoundland for gold analysis. All core samples submitted for assay were saw cut by Sokoman personnel with one-half submitted for assay and one-half retained for reference. Samples were delivered in sealed bags directly to the lab by Sokoman personnel. Eastern Analytical Ltd. is an accredited assay lab that conforms to the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025. Samples with visible gold were submitted for total pulp metallics and gravimetric finish. All other samples were analyzed by standard fire assay methods. Total pulp metallic analysis includes: the whole sample is crushed to -10 mesh; then pulverized to 95% -150 mesh. The total sample is weighed and screened to 150 mesh; the +150 mesh fraction is fire assayed for Au, and a 30 g subsample of the -150 mesh fraction is fire assayed for Au; with a calculated weighted average of total Au in the sample reported as well. One blank and one industry-approved standard for every twenty samples submitted is included in the sample stream. Random duplicates of selected samples are analyzed in addition to the in-house standard and duplicate policies of Eastern Analytical Ltd. All reported assays are uncut.About Sokoman Minerals Corp.Sokoman Minerals Corp. is a discovery-oriented company with projects in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. The Company's primary focus is its portfolio of gold projects; the 100%-owned flagship, advanced-stage Moosehead, as well as Crippleback Lake (available for option); and East Alder (optioned to Canterra Minerals Corporation) along the Central Newfoundland Gold Belt, and the district-scale Fleur de Lys project near Baie Verte in north-central Newfoundland, that is targeting Dalradian-type orogenic gold mineralization similar to the Curraghinalt and Cavanacaw deposits in Northern Ireland. The Company also entered into a strategic alliance with Benton Resources Inc. through three, large-scale, joint-venture properties including Grey River, Golden Hope, and Kepenkeck in Newfoundland.Sokoman now controls, independently and through the Benton Alliance, over 150,000 hectares (>6,000 claims - 1500 sq. km), making it one of the largest landholders in Newfoundland, in Canada's newest and rapidly emerging gold districts. The Company also retains an interest in an early-stage antimony/gold project (Startrek) in Newfoundland, optioned to Thunder Gold Corp (formerly White Metal Resources Inc.), and in Labrador, the Company has a 100% interest in the Iron Horse (Fe) project which has Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) potential.Mineralization hosted on adjacent and/or nearby properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Company's property.The Company would like to thank the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for past financial support of the Moosehead Project through the Junior Exploration Assistance Program.For more information, please contact:Timothy Froude, P.Geo., President & CEO T: 709-765-1726 E: tim@ sokomanmineralscorp.com Cathy Hume, VP Corporate Development, Director T: 416-868-1079 x 251E: cathy@ chfir.com Website: www.sokomanmineralscorp.comTwitter: @SokomanMineralsFacebook: @SokomanMineralsLinkedIn: @SokomanMineralsCorpNeither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.Investors are ca
The High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC) has ordered to detain the former director of the state-owned enterprise (SOE) Polygraph Combine Ukraina (Kyiv), suspected of embezzling about UAH 500 million of public funds.

"On September 13, 2023, at the request of NABU detectives, agreed upon by a SAPO prosecutor, the investigating judge of the HACC chose a preventive measure for the director of SOE Polygraph Combine Ukraina, suspected of embezzlement and legalization of about UAH 500 million," the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) said on its Telegram channel in Thursday.

The court agreed with the prosecutor's arguments and ordered to detain the suspect. "After the person is detained and brought to the place of the pretrial investigation, the investigating judge will decide on the application of this preventive measure," the SAPO said.

As reported, in July 2023, NABU and SAPO exposed a large-scale corruption scheme - almost UAH 500 million in losses at SOE Polygraph Combine Ukraina. To solve the crime, detectives and prosecutors used the help of colleagues, creating an international investigative team of investigators from Estonia and France.

The investigators established that the ex-director of the enterprise used a company registered in the Republic of Estonia controlled by him to enrich himself when purchasing consumables for the production of documents (including passports for traveling abroad, etc.). Materials for the Ukrainian state-owned enterprise were not purchased directly from manufacturers, but through an intermediary company. Thus, prices were raised four to six times. This made it possible to concentrate in the accounts of the Estonian company an amount equivalent to about UAH 500 million. After which such funds were transferred to the accounts of a large number of companies registered in different countries. In this way, their illegal origin was concealed.

In Estonia, the suspect was assisted by two citizens of this country, who ensured the management of the intermediary company in the unlawful interests of a Ukrainian civil servant.

This scheme was in effect during 2013-2016. That is why the cost of products of SOE Polygraph Combine Ukraina was artificially increased due to the corruption component.

In the period from 2011 to 2016, SOE Polygraph Combine Ukraina was headed by Maksym Stepanov. From January 2017, he served as head of the Odesa Regional State Administration, from March 2020 to May 2021, he was the Minister of Health of Ukraine.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 04:40:19

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 925 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

LUGANO, SWITZERLAND / ACCESSWIRE / September 13, 2023 / Stanislav Kondrashov, a gifted photographer known for his ability to capture the essence of life's moments, recently sat down for an insightful interview with Influential People Magazine. With his profound appreciation for nature, family, and the art of photography, Kondrashov shared his journey from a curious observer to a celebrated photographer, offering a glimpse into his unique perspective on the world of photography.Kondrashov's journey into the world of photography was heavily influenced by his early fascination with urban environments and human interactions. He observed the bustling streets of his surroundings with keen interest, developing a unique perspective that would later shape his photography style. Reflecting on this fascination, Kondrashov states, "My early curiosity about urban scenes and people's interactions had a profound impact on my photography style. I learned to find beauty in everyday occurrences, capturing fleeting emotions and connections between individuals within a single image." When asked about the pivotal moment that solidified his decision to pursue photography as a career, Stanislav Kondrashov shared an anecdote from an outdoor shoot. Despite a sudden and unexpected downpour during the session, the couple being photographed remained joyful and undeterred. This experience highlighted the power of photography to capture genuine emotions and connections, motivating Kondrashov to pursue his passion professionally. Kondrashov explains, "It was during that rain-soaked shoot that I realized photography could be more than a hobby. It was a powerful medium to capture moments of love and joy, and I decided to turn my passion into a career." Kondrashov's portfolio prominently features family and event photography, where he skillfully captures the love and joy of special moments. He emphasizes the significance of these intimate interactions and shares his approach to capturing them authentically. He says, "Family events are unique and deserve to be cherished. My goal is to create images that immortalize these treasured moments. I achieve this by focusing on natural poses and genuine emotions, allowing the connections between loved ones to shine through." Nature has always been a significant source of inspiration for Stanislav Kondrashov, and he explains how his appreciation for the natural world influences his family and event photography. He seamlessly incorporates elements of nature into his work, adding depth and texture to his images. "I believe that the appreciation for nature and its beauty is reflected in my family photography," Kondrashov states. "By blending the environment with the genuine interactions of families, I create images that celebrate both nature and love." Kondrashov's journey led him from Russia to London, where he pursued further studies in photography. He credits the vibrant energy and cultural diversity of London as instrumental in his creative development. Additionally, Kondrashov acknowledges the vital role of mentors who provided guidance, constructive feedback, and encouraged him to explore various photographic styles and techniques. Kondrashov remarks, "London's diverse atmosphere challenged me to think creatively, and my mentors played a crucial role in shaping my artistic vision and technical skills. They pushed me to become a better photographer." As digital photography and editing tools have advanced, Kondrashov emphasizes the importance of using technology as a tool rather than letting it dominate the creative process. He values the authenticity and uniqueness of his work and ensures that the essence of the moment is captured before any digital enhancements. "I believe in capturing moments authentically," says Kondrashov. "While I use editing tools to enhance my images, the core of my work remains true to the moment, preserving its authenticity and uniqueness." Stanislav Kondrashov's journey as a photographer is a testament to his ability to capture life's moments in their purest form. His passion for observing the world around him, combined with his technical skills and artistic vision, results in images that resonate with viewers on a deep and emotional level. Kondrashov's work serves as a reminder of the beauty found in the ordinary, the significance of connections between people, and the power of photography to immortalize these moments for generations to come.About Stanislav KondrashovStanislav Kondrashov is a gifted photographer who captures the love and joy of family events & urban scenes. With camera lens, he immortalizes cherished moments for countless individuals, blending his deep appreciation for nature, family, and life with his passion for the art of photography. Kondrashov's work reflects a remarkable fusion of artistry, precision, & creativity that shines through in every project he undertakes. Originally born in 1988 in Russia, Stanislav Kondrashov exhibited a curious nature from a young age, developing an interest in a wide range of people and activities. Often found perched on the sidewalk of a bustling street, he would observe with fascination as crowds of people and vehicles hurried past. This insatiable curiosity about the world around him continued to grow over the years, driving him to seek out beauty in every corner of his surroundings.After completing his university education in Russia, Stanislav Kondrashov embarked on a journey to London to further his studies in photography. Embracing the diverse aspects of his course, he found great inspiration in capturing the beauty of natural landscapes. However, he soon discovered his true calling lay in the realm of family and event photography. Exploring a wide range of techniques both indoors and outdoors, Kondrashov honed his skills using various lighting mechanisms, backdrops, filters, and more. Under the tutelage of esteemed mentors, he refined his craft to become the photographer he is today.Media Contact:Jessica Smith | Market Newsjessica@ marketnews.comphone: 1-415-837-8371SOURCE: Stanislav Kondrashov Photography
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 23:56:47

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 984 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Temu announces global e-commerce capabilities and marketplace growth.BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / American shoppers are hooked on the shockingly low prices that Temu, a startup e-commerce platform, has been offering since its launch in September 2022. The company's app tops the charts of most-downloaded apps in the U.S., gaining millions of users before completing its first year of business. Temu's name comes from its motto: "Team Up, Price Down." It's built a thriving business on this motto by offering frequent flash sales that leave products such as clothing and electronics reaching wholesale levels. Its discounts can reach 80% or higher in some cases.Even with the ubiquity of online shopping in the U.S., American consumers aren't used to this level of price reduction, and it's caused some to ask whether Temu is legitimate. In response, the company has emphasized that its low prices don't stem from low-quality items or poor labor conditions, but rather from a modern Next-Gen Manufacturing model that utilizes retail insights from the platform to help manufacturing partners cut wasteful costs. The savings are passed on to the consumer in the form of low prices.Temu is an American company headquartered in Boston. Starting out with the US market, it has now expanded its services to over 30 markets around the world. Temu works with a global network of manufacturing and shipping partners. The company doesn't manufacture the products it sells on its platform. It relies on this global network of brands and sellers to provide a diverse array of products ranging from the everyday to the niche.At the core of Temu's manufacturing model lies its collaborative partnership with manufacturers. Instead of establishing its own production facilities, the company actively seeks out manufacturers who are looking to optimize their processes and cut costs. By forging these partnerships, it leverages the existing infrastructure, expertise, and production capabilities of the manufacturers while providing them with valuable insights and strategies to enhance their operations.The company acts as a bridge between sellers and consumers, helping manufacturers understand the pulse of the market. It analyzes activity on its platform to identify emerging trends, market gaps, and areas of opportunity. This information is then shared with manufacturers, who can modify their production processes, product features, and pricing strategies accordingly.Collaborating manufacturers benefit from a significant reduction in the risk associated with traditional supply chain management. With access to retail insights derived from analyzing activity on the platform, they can make informed decisions on product design, features, and variations. This minimizes the likelihood of producing goods that may fail to resonate with consumers, mitigating the risk of excess inventory.It also reduces marketing costs, as sellers are able to implement a reverse marketing strategy by featuring their products on the platform. Reverse marketing flips the traditional marketing paradigm by placing the focus on consumer demand rather than creating demand for existing products or services. It involves understanding consumer preferences, behavior, and needs, and then tailoring production and marketing efforts accordingly.Reverse marketing aims to align the supply chain with consumer demand, ensuring that the right products are available to meet customer needs at the right time. It involves creating products that meet specific needs, incorporate desired features, and cater to the evolving tastes of the target market. This approach minimizes the risk of producing goods that may not resonate with consumers.Because Temu has built a network of established manufacturers of a variety of sizes and specialties, it's able to offer a diverse range of products. The platform sorts its products into 29 categories, with hundreds of subcategories. They range from women's clothing, jewelry and accessories to toys, games, and electronics.A recent Business Insider piece on the company's business model highlighted shoppers' tweets saying, "If Amazon and Dollar Tree had a baby, it would be Temu." The company's Super Bowl ad in February encouraged customers to "shop like a billionaire" and take advantage of low prices to feel free to shop online without worrying about excessive costs. For example, some of Temu's current top sellers include Lenovo earbuds for under $10, a foam cobblestone bath rug for under $5, women's slippers for $7, and a smartwatch for $16. Some products can go for around $1 or less. A few recent top sellers in this range are a six-piece lip balm set and a car windshield cleaning kit.Temu's sales model emphasizes continuously launching lightning sales on a rotating range of products. These promotional events offer a limited quantity of products at significantly discounted prices for a short period. They're characterized by their urgency and exclusivity.Lightning sales lend themselves well to social sharing and viral marketing. Customers often share news about the deals on social media platforms, generating organic buzz and expanding the reach of the promotion. Customers have also taken to TikTok and YouTube to display their "Temu hauls," showing off dozens of items they bought on a budget.About TemuTemu's fast rise has shaken up the e-commerce industry in the U.S. and beyond. E-commerce has been growing steadily for years, with Amazon standing as the paradigmatic example. But ultra-low-priced platforms are a more recent phenomenon.While it's less than a year old, the company has quickly established a solid infrastructure of partner brands and sellers and shipping partners. And its millions of users suggests that there is significant demand for this new low-priced approach to online shopping. As demand increases, Temu has expanded beyond the U.S. and is now available in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Europe.Michael Felice, associate partner in the communications, media, and technology practice of consulting firm Kearney, told Business Insider that "if Temu can prove sustainability in its business model, I believe this is the white space that remains in U.S. e-commerce." Media Contact:Company: TemuContact person: Temu Media TeamEmail: media@ temu.comWebsite: SOURCE: Temu
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 19:16:44

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 651 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

ROCK HILL, SC / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Certain nonprofits will have their 990 deadline on the 15th of each month. Tomorrow (September 15th) is a major deadline for nonprofit organizations to file their 990 series returns with the IRS. An organization may have a September 15th deadline if they:operate on a fiscal year ending on April 30th, 2023 (or)filed an extension Form 8868 for their deadline by March 15th, 2023.Organizations that have obtained tax-exempt status through the State of California are also required to file CA Form 199.The IRS requires that all tax-exempt organizations file these returns electronically. Using an IRS-authorized e-file provider is vital to ensure that 990 returns are filed with accuracy and security.Tax990 provides a simple and secure 990 e-filing solution! Nonprofit organizations and tax professionals that file on their behalf can easily e-file Form 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, 990-PF, 990-T, CA-199, 8038-CP, and 8868 with Tax990.When e-filing with Tax990, organizations can take advantage of many unique features:Attach required 990 Schedules for free.Form-based or interview-based filing methods.Copy data from previous returns.The ability to add team members to manage filing from a single account.An internal audit feature that reviews returns for errors.Share returns with board members as needed for review and approval.Correct and retransmit rejected returns to the IRS at no additional cost.Live , dedicated customer support is available by phone, email, or live chat.Tax professionals can take advantage of key features designed for efficient filing at any volume. This includes bulk upload options, discounted prepaid credits, and more.As the deadline is quickly approaching, many organizations may opt to file an 8868 extension with the IRS to request additional filing time of up to 6 months. This is an automatic extension that the IRS will approve as long as it is filed with accurate information by the deadline. Tax990 supports the extension Form 8868 and enables their clients to file it easily. Please note that Form 8868 can only be filed by an organization once per tax year.Tax990 also offers a pricing package that allows organizations to purchase both an extension Form 8868 and their 990 return at a discounted rate. The cost of the extension is free when the 990 is purchased up-front. This means when the organization's extension period ends in 6 months, the 990 return is already paid for, and the organization can simply complete and transmit it to the IRS.Additionally, Tax990 provides excellent customer support throughout the filing process. Their team offers extended support hours around major 990 filing deadlines. The team can be reached by phone, email, and live chat.When asked about the upcoming deadline, Agie Sundaram, CEO and Co-founder of SPAN Enterprises (the parent company of Tax990), responded by stating, "The deadline is always a big day for nonprofit organizations that are required to file 990 returns with the IRS. Our team is prepared to assist clients throughout the day to ensure they meet their deadline. We encourage every organization that is still seeking a solution for meeting tomorrow's deadline to get started with Tax990 right away. We offer an affordable solution that is both secure and user-friendly, with advanced features that cannot be found elsewhere." Organizations can begin filing their 990 returns now at tax990.com About Tax990Tax 990 is the premier, IRS-authorized e-file provider of nonprofit tax forms. Tax990 provides solutions for nonprofits that are required to file Forms 990-EZ, 990, 990-N, 990-PF, 990-T, California Form CA-199, Extension Form 8868 and 8038-CP with the IRS. With advanced features and affordable pricing, the goal of Tax990 is to help nonprofits file easily, so they can continue to keep doing good.About SPAN EnterprisesBased in Rock Hill, South Carolina, SPAN Enterprises has been developing industry-leading software solutions for IRS e-filing and business management tools for over a decade.The SPAN Enterprises portfolio of products includes TaxBandits, Tax990, ACAwise, ExpressExtension, 123PayStubs, and TruckLogics.For any media inquiries, please reach out to Gerald Withers, Content Writer at gerald@ spanenterprises.com SOURCE: Tax990
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 07:00:31

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 1031 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Tsodilo Resources Limited ("Tsodilo" or the "Company") (TSX-V:TSD)(OTCQB:TSDRF)(FSE:TZO) as informed by the Ministry of Works and Transport (Namibia) is pleased to announce that the Nambian Cabinet has approved the Final Feasibility Study ("FFS" or the "Study") for the Trans-Zambezi Railway Extension Grootfontein-Rundu-Katima Mulilo.Minister of Works and Transport Minister John Mutorwa commented that "Namibia is at the forefront of coordinating the extension of the Grootfontein-Katima Mulilo railway project. We are now at the stage where the finance ministry is in the lead to see how we can fund this, because it's not only a Namibian railway line. It is like a road that will connect us to other countries, such as Zambia and Botswana, through Ngoma up to Kasane, and link up with Zimbabwe and Zambia, where the bridge is, up to the Democratic Republic of Congo." The cross-border rail project aims to link new mines and mining activities to the railway network along the Walvis Bay - Ndola - Lubumbashi Development Corridor to enable transportation of minerals from the Copperbelt to Walvis Bay. This corridor is perfectly positioned to service the two-way trade between the SADC region and Europe, North and South America and emerging markets in the East, see Figure 1 for a regional context to this important transport corridor."Namibia Cabinet's approval is a crucial and big step forward. The rail extension is an important development for Tsodilo as it opens up a proximate rail transportation system for the delivery of our Xaudum Iron Formation project's potential iron products, such as iron concentrate, iron pellets, potential direct reduced iron (DRI) products, and Ferrosilicone (FeSi), throughout central, eastern and southern Africa as well as international markets. Rail transportation is complementary to our goal of becoming the supplier of an ultra-high grade +67% Fe product to the industry and doing what we can to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by becoming part of the "green steel" movement." commented Tsodilo's Chairman and CEO, James M. Bruchs.The proposed rail extension between Grootfontein and Katima Mulilo is significant as the extension is planned to pass through Divundu in Namibia which is located 35 kilometers (22 miles) from our license location in Northern Botswana, see Figure 2. The Trans-Zambezi Railway extension feasibility study can be viewed in its entirety at: https://tsodiloresources.com/s/Metals-671052.asp.html XAUDUM IRON FORMATION (XIF)About the XIF ProjectThe project is located in the North-West District of Botswana and is proximate to the Namibian border and lies twenty-two (22) miles from the town of Divundu in Namibia. The Walvis Bay-Ndola-Lubumbashi Development Corridor (previously known as the Trans-Caprivi) line linking Zambia and Namibia is planned to pass through Divundu, providing access to Walvis Bay, Namibia's deep-sea port. The project is also located within forty-three (43) miles of the proposed Mucusso line to Angola's Namibe Port.Preliminary work on the Xaudum Iron project has defined a CIM compliant Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate of 441 million tonnes (Mt) with an average grade of 29.4% Fe, 41.0% SiO2, 6.1% Al2O3 and 0.3% P for the Block 1 magnetite XIF.Block 1 is a fraction of the potential XIF magnetite resource. An extrapolated exploration target has defined the XIF to be in the order of 5 to 7 billion tonnes at 15 - 40% Fe. This exploration target was generated by inversion modelling of ground magnetic geophysical data which was compared and moderated to volumes from drilling data within Block 1 and its potential quantity and grade is conceptual in nature. To date, there has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource other than in Block 1 and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the target being delineated as a mineral resource. See, Press Release of 6/02/2014 on the Company's website for further details.Metallurgical magnetic separation results (Davis Tube Recovery) show that an average concentrate of 67.2% Fe, 4.2% SiO2, 0.5% Al2O3, 0.07% P is obtained at P80 grind size of 80 microns, although higher grades are possible at finer P80's. See, Press Release of 12/17/2013 on the Company's website.Further exploration will be focused on Block 2a where the Company expects an increase in the resource.Additional informational of the project can be found on the Company's website at https://tsodiloresources.com/s/Metals.asp.html and further technical information can be found in a report prepared by SRK Consulting (UK) Ltd. for Gcwihaba Resources (Pty) Ltd. titled "Mineral Resource Estimate for the Xaudum Iron Project (Block 1), Republic of Botswana" with an effective date of August 29, 2014, and filed on SEDAR under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com.About Tsodilo Resources LimitedTsodilo Resources Limited is an international resource exploration company engaged in the search for economic metal and diamond deposits at its Gcwihaba Resources (Pty) Limited ("Gcwihaba") and Bosoto (Pty) Ltd. ("Bosoto) projects in Botswana. The Company has a 100% stake in its Gcwihaba project area consisting of five metal (base, precious, platinum group, and rare earth) prospecting licenses all located in the North-West district of Botswana. The Company has a 100% stake in Bosoto (Pty) Ltd. which holds the BK16 kimberlite project in the Orapa Kimberlite Field (OKF) in Botswana. Tsodilo manages the exploration of the Gcwihaba and Bosoto projects. Overall supervision of the Company's exploration program is the responsibility of McDonald Kahari (Pr. Sci. Nat.) a "qualified person" as such term is defined in National Instrument 43-101.FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:James M. Bruchs Chairman and Chief Executive Officer JBruchs@ TsodiloResources.comHead Office Telephone +1 416 572 2033 Facsimile + 1 416 987 4369Website http://www.TsodiloResources.comThis press release may contain forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future (including, without limitation, statements pertaining to the use of proceeds, the impact of strategic partnerships and statements that describe the Company's future plans, objectives or goals) are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially fr
PR-Inside.com: 2023-09-14 19:03:36

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 372 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

Students from the leading automotive, diesel and collision trade school received 10% of the overall awards given to trade school students in the U.S.LARAMIE, WY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Sixteen WyoTech students were awarded the Mike Rowe Work Ethic scholarship from the Mike Rowe Foundation. WyoTech students received nearly 10% of the overall awards given to trade-school-going students across the nation.WyoTech supports its students through education and financial assistance by offering up opportunities with the Mike Rowe Foundation, an organization renowned for its dedication to the trade industry."WyoTech and the Mike Rowe Foundation share a common mission in bringing awareness to the value of trades education," said Jim Mathis, president and CEO of WyoTech. "For many years, WyoTech students have been beneficiaries of the Mike Rowe scholarships, who display characteristics that are in alignment with the mission of the Mike Rowe Foundation." WyoTech's impact on the trade industry has grown over the last five years, supported by the tremendous work of Mike Rowe himself in driving awareness to the jobs that move the American economy forward, as well as the work done by his Foundation. It is part of WyoTech's ongoing commitment to creating robust pathways within the trade industry, a sector often overlooked in its potential to offer prosperous careers."Over the last five years, WyoTech has gained tremendous momentum in the industry and is building an aggressive movement of driving the right students to the trades. We strive to showcase tremendous value for prosperity that has been underrated and undervalued for too many years," said Mathis.WyoTech's aligned mission with the Mike Rowe Foundation underscores the tech school's dedication to fostering tangible growth and prosperity in the trade industry. WyoTech is proud to advertise these scholarship opportunities to symbolize the positive traction within trade education and careers.For more information on WyoTech, visit https://www.wyotech.edu About WyoTechWyoTech, formerly known as Wyoming Technical Institute, is a for-profit technical college founded in Laramie, Wyoming, in 1966. WyoTech provides training programs that prepare students for careers as technicians in the automotive and diesel industry with nine-month training programs that focus on hands-on experience.Contact InformationMike Albanese mike.albanese@newswire.com Related ImagesSOURCE: WyoTech
A recent report that the Federal government has approached the World Bank for a fresh loan of $400m for a...
On Tuesday, a group of Black American LGBTQ lawmakers protested in front of the Nigerian Embassy in Northwest Washington, condemning the recent arrest and parade of 67 gay suspects at a same-sex wedding in Delta State, the Washington Blade is reporting.

The LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer) American lawmakers at the protest included some members of the US House of Delegates, Gabriel Aceve, Krystal Oriadha, Ashanti Martinez, Krystal Oriadha, and the National Black Justice Coalition Public Policy and Programs Director; Victoria Kirby York.

Black LGBTQ lawmakers, activists protest outside Nigerian embassy washingtonblade.com

Bright Edafe, the police spokesperson in Delta State, said operatives had intercepted a cross-dresser who confessed that he was a member of a gay club and was on his way to a gay marriage ceremony.

He led the operatives to the ceremony venue at Teebolus Hotel, off Refinery Road, Ekpan in Warri.

The marriage ceremony, according to the police, was for a gay couple  Daniel Pius (groom) and 22-year-old Maxwel Ohwonohwo (bride).

The police also threatened to prosecute the paraded suspects by the law.

Since the botched wedding, there has been a series of conversations since homosexual relationships are illegal in Nigeria.

Nigerias anti-gay law, enacted in January 2014 by President Goodluck Jonathans administration, stipulates a 14-year prison term for anyone convicted of having sex with members of the same sex.

US LGBTQ lawmakers protest

The lawmakers protested the arrest of the suspects in Delta state, demanded the release of all the detainees and requested that the Nigerian police drop all the charges.

Speaking during the protest, Maryland State Delegate Gabriel Acevero, a Democrat, who is also the first openly gay man of Afro-Latino descent elected to the Maryland General Assembly, said that queer Nigerians are not a threat to Nigerian identity or national security, but Boko Haram is.

He said, What we saw with the recent arrest and detention is not just a violation of peoples rights with this unjust arrest, but the parading of LGBTQIA+ folks before the media as if Nigerian law enforcement officials have accomplished some sort of a public safety measure.

The National Black Justice Coalition Public Policy and Programs Director, Victoria Kirby York, noted that she is of Nigerian descent and said she has not visited Nigeria because she is frightened as an openly lesbian person and may be detained.

She, therefore, demanded that Nigeria release the detainees and drop the charges.

Also speaking at the protest was Ashanti Martinez, Afro-Latino and the first openly gay man to represent Prince Georges County in the House of Delegates, who said they have heavy hearts addressing a pressing issue that demands their immediate attention.

He said: Nigeria, a nation with immense potential and cultural richness, is currently taking a stance to contradict the principles of equality and human rights. Were here to protest Nigerias anti-LGBTQ policy and urge for change.

Were here to demand that Nigeria release all the detainees and drop all the charges because, in a world increasingly recognising the importance of diversity and inclusion, Nigerias discriminatory laws against the LGBT community remain a stain on his reputation. These laws not only perpetuate prejudice but also infringe upon the fundamental human rights of countless Individuals.

Krystal Oriadha, who is bisexual, noted that her father was born in Kenya. She is a member of the US council, Prince Georges County, representing District 7, since December 5, 2022. She dismissed the idea that homosexuality is a Western concept.

Zachary Parker, who is the first Black gay man elected to the D.C. City Council, in his remarks, said that Nigeria is one of many countries in which anti-LGBTQ crackdowns are taking place.

He said, The notion that this is a white American imperialist viewpoint and values that are trying to be imposed on these cultures is not true, said Oriadha. That notion alone ignores the existence, the mere existence of their people in their communities.

The Ward 5 council member also highlighted discrimination and violence based on gender identity and sexual orientation, which remain problems in D.C. and the U.S.

We know, sadly, that were today protesting Nigeria, but we can also protest Pakistan, we can protest Jamaica and Haiti and a host of other countries around the globe where Black queer people are being prosecuted or being killed.

Even here in our own country, where Black trans people are being hunted on our streets or have gone missing without even a notice, where there are bans on books, there are bans and our oppressive policies against our bodies, even here in the nations capital, he said.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The rise in targeted killings of Ethiopian migrants by Saudi border officials highlights the brutality of efforts to stop irregular migration, and the desperation of those who make the perilous journeys.

In August, Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported that between March 2022 and June 2023, hundreds of Ethiopians trying to cross the Yemen-Saudi border were killed, and that the executions are continuing. Clashes with smugglers and authorities are a regular feature of irregular migration, but if this gruesome practice is a Saudi government policy, says HRW, the killings would be a crime against humanity. A Saudi official said the allegations were unfounded.

Despite this, Saudi Arabia remains one of the top destinations for Ethiopians trying to reach the Middle East. Many migrants are aware of the life-threatening challenges but travel regardless, believing its better to take the chance and seek a better life than live in destitution and hopelessness in Ethiopia.

Environmental challenges, such as drought and famine in some parts of the country, and the recent armed conflict and widespread instability, are significant push factors. These, together with a lack of investigation and prosecution of criminal networks involved in irregular migration, drive the consistent movement of people along Africas Eastern Route.

The primary route for migrant smuggling and human trafficking from East Africa to the Middle East is from Ethiopia via Obock in Djibouti, Bosaso in Somalia, Yemen and finally Saudi Arabia. In 2022, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that of the approximately 750,000 Ethiopians in Saudi Arabia, 450,000 entered the country unlawfully.

Many Ethiopians who move illegally to Saudi Arabia are assisted by fellow Ethiopians involved in human smuggling. This can lead to human trafficking, with migrants subjected to abuse and exploitation, including rape and torture. According to Deputy Commissioner Birhanu Abebe of the Ethiopian Federal Police Commission, the police have videos showing assaults deemed too horrifying for public consumption. The abuse sometimes starts in Ethiopia and is perpetrated by Ethiopian traffickers en route to Saudi Arabia.

An anonymous source told the ENACT organised crime project that Ethiopian traffickers sometimes work with Saudi law enforcement agents who look the other way. Or, if they are planning to take action, tip off the traffickers so they escape arrest.

The route to Saudi Arabia through Yemen is considered the most dangerous in the world. While militias in Yemen sometimes facilitate migrants journeys, they are also known to detain Ethiopians or kidnap them for ransom. Armed groups and smugglers on the Yemeni-Saudi border beat and abuse migrants, often compelling them to ask relatives back home for ransom payments.

Immigrants arrested by Saudi authorities face incarceration in appalling conditions where they suffer beatings and degrading treatment. Dire prison conditions can lead to migrants deaths and have prompted international organisations to call on Saudi Arabia to improve the state of its detention centres.

These organisations also asked Ethiopia to repatriate its citizens. The two countries eventually agreed in March 2022 to send home over 100,000 Ethiopians living in Saudi Arabia, most of whom were in detention centres. A year later, on 4 April 2023, Ethiopias Foreign Affairs Ministry confirmed that about 131,000 Ethiopians had been brought back. The repatriation involved numerous organisations, such as IOM and other international partners.

However, the repatriation campaigns are not effective, and there is no evidence that repatriation deters illegal migration. During the April 2022 to April 2023 campaigns, many migrants sent home to Ethiopia found their way back to Saudi Arabia. Deputy Commissioner Tesfaye Ashine of the Federal Police Commission said that in May, only a month after the repatriation was complete, the number of Ethiopians detained in Saudi prisons jumped from 1,500 to about 25,000.

Tesfaye was part of the multisectoral task force that travelled to Saudi Arabia to coordinate the immigrants return. There, he encountered an Ethiopian who re-migrated to Saudi Arabia about 38 times. According to Deputy Commissioner Birhanu, it is common to come across people who have been smuggled into Saudi Arabia as many as 15 times.

Birhanu says repatriated migrants are taken to rehabilitation centres in Addis Ababa and then released to their home or host community. There are insufficient resources to keep them in centres, and no system can trace their whereabouts once they leave. This missed opportunity undermines investigations into the criminal value chain of illegal transactions, corruption and extortion en route to Saudi Arabia.

A police officer who requested anonymity told ENACT that Ethiopia didnt have the resources or time to follow up on repatriated migrants, including those flagged as potential security threats. Nor were there sufficient resources to investigate the transnational networks that facilitate people smuggling and trafficking to Saudi Arabia. That means the country is losing vital information on smugglers identities and modus operandi.

The approach followed by Ethiopias criminal justice system needs to change. The investigation and prosecution of migrant smuggling and human trafficking is too reactive, starting only when a victim makes a complaint.

This is partly because officials believe the governments response should be more about addressing the push factors than prosecuting the enablers. But it should be both. Ethiopia must tackle the root causes of irregular migration, while proactively investigating and prosecuting smugglers and traffickers for transnational organised crime.

Tadesse Simie Metekia, Senior Researcher, Horn of Africa, ENACT, Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Addis Ababa

ENACT is funded by the European Union and implemented by the Institute for Security Studies in partnership with INTERPOL and the Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime.

(This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish).

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Nigerian government has set up an emergency task force to mitigate the spread of diphtheria in the country.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, made this known in a statement issued by the ministry on Thursday.

Mr Pate said the primary objective of the task force is to operate in an emergency mode to prevent further spread of diphtheria to other states and provide relief to affected communities.

He said the team will also liaise with the governors of the states affected by diphtheria for counterpart funding, ownership, and mass mobilisation.

Taskforce

The task force is to be co-chaired by the Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Faisal Shuaib, and the Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Ifedayo Adetifa.

Other members of the task force include the Director of Public Health in the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Anyaike Chukwuma; representatives from the World Health Organisation, the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF), the Federal Ministry of Information and the Northern Traditional Leaders Committee on Primary Healthcare Delivery (NTLC).

About Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by the bacterium corynebacterium species that affects the nose, throat, and sometimes, the skin of an individual.

According to NCDC, people most at risk of contracting diphtheria are children and adults who have not received any or a single dose of the pentavalent vaccine (a diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine), people who live in a crowded environment, in areas with poor sanitation, and healthcare workers who are exposed to suspected or confirmed cases of diphtheria.

NCDC also said the disease spreads easily among people through direct contact with infected people, droplets from coughing or sneezing, and contact with contaminated clothing and objects.

The symptoms of diphtheria include fever, runny nose, sore throat, cough, red eyes (conjunctivitis), and neck swelling. In severe cases, NCDC said that a thick grey or white patch appears on the tonsils and, or at the back of the throat associated with difficulty in breathing.

As of Thursday, diphtheria cases have been detected in 14 states, with Kano as the epicentre of the infection.

The 14 affected states are Lagos, Osun, Nasarawa, Kaduna, Katsina, Yobe, Bauchi, Gombe, Borno, Zamfara, Jigawa, Plateau, Kano and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Diphtheria vaccine

The statement also noted that UNICEF procured 1.2 million vials of tetanus-diphtheria vaccine as support to the Nigerian governments response to the outbreak.

UNICEF Representative, Rownak Khan, affirms UNICEFs unwavering commitment to supporting the governments comprehensive response to the diphtheria outbreak.

Ms Khan said the vaccines will be dispatched to Kano State, the epicentre of the infection in Nigeria.

He said: Im pleased to announce that UNICEF, on behalf of the government, has procured 1.2 million vials of the tetanus-diphtheria vaccine which have arrived in Nigeria.

These will be immediately dispatched to Kano, which is at the heart of this outbreak. Our collective aim is to safeguard the health and future of every child in Nigeria.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


Since September 1, the International Press Institute (IPI) has been battling a targeted and sustained cyberattack.

This attack appears to be in retaliation for our advocacy work on behalf of independent media in Hungary, who have faced a wave of similar attacks since this summer.

The attack on IPI began with a series of distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks that initially took our website offline for three days. Our website has since been restored after scaling up security measures. We continue to experience milder DDoS attacks alongside efforts by attackers to breach our website.

This ongoing cyberattack is the most brazen and direct attack on IPIs online infrastructure in our organizations history. It reflects a wider and deeply alarming pattern of the abuse of digital tools by malicious actors to attack and silence critical journalists and those who work to defend them.

This cyberattack began just days after we released a statement highlighting a recent wave of DDoS attacks that have downed the websites of dozens of independent media outlets in Hungary over the past five months. In that report, we correctly describe these DDoS attacks as a new form of digital censorship that is further threatening Hungarys already besieged independent media. We also called on Hungarian law enforcement to identify and hold those responsible to account, and urged greater attention from the European Union.

READ ALSO:

Evidence of the attack on IPI shows that we have been targeted by the same cybercriminal or criminals behind the ongoing DDoS attacks in Hungary. These attackers left behind a message warning of another attack. We believe this is a deliberate and targeted attack on our organization in retaliation for shining a light on this dangerous new front in the war against Hungarys independent media.

While these attacks have disrupted our work, they have only strengthened our resolve, said Khadija Patel, chair of IPIs global Executive Board. We are more committed than ever to our mission of defending press freedom and independent journalism wherever they are threatened. We will continue to stand by independent media in Hungary and around the world.

Read our detailed account of the timeline, scope, and mode of the cyberattack against IPI and what steps we have taken to combat it.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


A field office of the International Criminal Court (ICC) opened in Kyiv on Thursday to strengthen cooperation between Ukraine and the ICC in investigation of war crimes committed by Russia, Prosecutor General of Ukraine Andriy Kostin has said.

"I am glad to welcome my friend [ICC Prosecutor] Karim Khan in Kyiv again. Today, we are writing together the history of the fight for justice Another step has been taken for the further strengthening of our partnership  the so-called field office of the International Criminal Court opened in Ukraine. This is the largest representative office of the ICC outside The Hague," he said at a joint press briefing with Khan in Kyiv on Thursday.

According to the Ukrainian prosecutor general, the work of the field office of the ICC will help to strengthen cooperation between Ukraine and the ICC.

"It will enhance effectiveness and timeliness of response to crimes which Russian continues to commit against Ukraine and Ukrainians every day," Kostin said.
Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed the desire of the Tinubus administration to deepen existing bilateral relations with the Republic of Cuba.

Mr Shettima stated this on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the Vice President of Cuba, Salvador Valdez Mesa at the Palace De Revolution in Havana.

We hold Cuba in high esteem especially your commitment to us in Africa, he affirmed.

While commending the existing relationship between the two countries, Mr Shettima reiterated the need to re-commit to future relations, saying our relationship has been very excellent over the years and this relations need to be strengthened and upscaled.

READ ALSO:

He is in that country to attend the G77+China Leaders Summit starting Friday.

Mr Shettima traced the history of relations between Nigeria, Africa and Cuba especially its support for Southern Africa.

This is why I came with Ministers of Agriculture and that of Science, Technology and Innovation to explore future areas of partnership.

The vice president stressed the need to explore opportunities in science, technology and Innovation as well as the agriculture sector.

He took time to deliver a special message to the President of Cuba, Miguel Diaz-Canel from President Bola Tinubu, assuring him of the latters commitment to deepening their mutual relations.

In his own remarks, the vice president of Cuba was full of praise for Nigerias leadership role in Africa and the world.

He said Cuba takes its relations with Nigeria very seriously, noting that the support to Africa in past decades is due to th fact that Cuba considers itself as an African State.

He thus expressed his countrys readiness to explore new areas of collaboration with Nigeria in such sectors such as health, biodiversity and agriculture.

He also thanked Nigeria for its participation at the upcoming Summit saying we attach great importance to your presence here.

In Mr Shettimas delegation to Cubas Vice President were the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Abubakar Kyari; Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Adamu Lamuwa, and Nigerias Ambassador to Cuba, Ben Okoyen, amongst others.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says troops of Operation Delta Safe have in the last two weeks, uncovered and destroyed 89 illegal refining sites in the Niger Delta region.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba, a major general, made this known on Thursday in Abuja while giving update on military operations across the country,

He said the troops also discovered and destroyed 21 dugout pits, 56 boats, 138 storage tanks, 235 cooking ovens, six pumping machines, one outboard engine, and two speedboats.

According to him, the troops have recovered about 1.2 litres of stolen crude oil, 452,910 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil, 22,650 litres of Premium Motor Spirit and 3,000 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosine.

He added that the troops apprehended 59 suspected oil thieves and other criminal elements, as well as recovered 15 assorted weapons within the period under review.

Mr Buba further said the troops had in a cordon and search operation on 7 September, apprehended 14 suspects and recovered 14 assorted weapons in their hideout in Tai Local Government Area, Rivers State.

He added that the air component on 4 September, conducted air interdiction over Bille and Ijawkiri where active illegal oil refining sites were destroyed with rockets and cannons.

In the South-east, Mr Buba said the troops of Operation UDO KA, killed 17 terrorists, arrested 11 suspected criminals and rescued two kidnapped hostages during the period.

He added that the troops also recovered 10 AK47 rifles, five dane guns, seven pump action guns, four magazines and 34 cartridges.

All recovered items, arrested suspects and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authority for further action, he said.

(NAN)

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The federal government said the collapse of the national grid on Thursday morning was caused by a fire outbreak on Kainji/Jebba 330kV line, leading to about 356.63MW generation loss.

Nigerias Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, disclosed this in a series of tweets on his X handle on Thursday.

At 00:35 Hrs this morning, a Fire outbreak with an explosion sound was observed on Kainji/Jebba 330kV line 2 (Cct K2J) blue phase CVT & Blue phase line Isolator of Kainji/Jebba 330kV line1 was observed burning.

This led to sharp drops in frequency from 50.29Hz to 49.67 Hz at 0:35:06Hrs with Jebba generation loss of 356.63MW, Mr Adelabu said.

He said Kainji started dropping the load from 451.45 MW at 00:35:07 Hrs to zero.

At 00:41 Hrs frequency dropped further from 49.37 Hz to 48.41 Hz resulting in the system collapse of the grid.

We are on top of the situation and speedy restoration is in progress. The fire has been fully arrested and over half of the connections are now up and the rest will be fully restored in no time.

My sincere appreciation to those who responded or expressed concern via different channels and the team of Engineers for their prompt response to the situation and work done so far. Lets get the restoration work completed as soon as possible, he said.

He explained that the delay in the update was deliberate, so as not to cause panic and to also be able to update on the progress of remedial actions taken so far.

This is to ensure economic and security saboteurs dont take advantage of every situation reported, he said.

Background

Nigerians were on Thursday morning thrown into darkness after the national grid system collapsed.

The system is operated by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) from Osogbo, Osun State.

Some of the nations Distribution Companies confirmed that the grid collapsed in the early hours of Thursday, as most of their feeders are out.

The latest collapse is coming weeks after the TCN announced that the countrys power grid had maintained uninterrupted stability for over 400 consecutive days.

The TCN had in August said the Nigerian power grid has recorded an unparalleled period of stability in the history of the power sector, operating without any major disruptions or systems collapse for an impressive span of 400 consecutive days and counting.

This milestone signifies a remarkable advancement in the nations efforts at strengthening its power infrastructure and ensuring a reliable and dependable electricity supply to distribution load centres for onward distribution to electricity customers nationwide, the company said in a statement.

In recent years, the power sector has experienced many broad challenges related to electricity policy enforcement, regulatory uncertainty, gas supply, transmission system constraints, and major power sector planning shortfalls.

In 2022 alone, the countrys national grid collapsed eight times.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The crisis between Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has intensified with an aide of the governor accusing Mr Aiyedatiwa of abandoning governance for politics while he was acting as governor.

Mr Aiyedatiwa served as acting governor for three months until last week when Mr Akeredolu returned from medical treatment in Germany.

On Tuesday, the governor sacked the media aides of the deputy governor without providing any reason.

Aides of the governor had even before Mr Akeredolus return accused Mr Aiyedatiwa of disloyalty to the ailing governor without corroboration.

However, appearing on Channels TV Wednesday evening, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Duties, Doyin Odebowale, said political intrigues threatened governance in the state on Mr Aiyedatiwas watch.

Mr Odebowale linked the alleged intrigues to the politics of the 2024 governorship election in the state.

He said the ambitions of some persons in the government, whom he refused to name, distracted governance during the period.

READ ALSO:

The deputy governor has strenuously denied the allegations of disloyalty and frosty relationship with the governor over his alleged 2024 governorship ambition.

He became acting governor in June after it became clear that the governor was no longer performing his duties due to his health challenges.

The governor returned to the state last week and had since resumed duties. But insiders indicate that the sour relationship with his deputy will lead to an overhaul of his political alliances ahead of the coming election.

Mr Odebowale, while answering questions on the situation in the state government, said some members of the cabinet capitalised on the governors absence to pursue their political ambitions.

I can tell you for free, when the governor was away, there was little governance in Ondo State, he said.

People wanted to be governor. It is within their right but they were distracting us and were recruiting people to be distracting us.

Mr Odebowale said while the governor was away in Germany, he was actively involved in the affairs of the state and sometimes gave instructions on what to do in spite of an acting governor being in place.

According to him, the development put paid to the impressions that the governor was seriously incapacitated.

It is all about the election and the governor is not contesting again, he said.

I can tell you as a member of this government, I was appalled at some of the things that happened.

Asked if Mr Akeredolu was against his deputy contesting next years election, Mr Odebowale said the governor had not said so, but those with political interests were distracting the government.

There were postings of the obituary of the governor more than five times. They wanted power, not to serve the people, they were overheating the polity, he said.

They created the impression that the governor was not in charge of anything. They picked on the first family.

He added that although he was picking on the deputy governor, those involved know themselves.

No governor will sit down and see that happen, he said.

The people voted for the governor and of course he picked his deputy to run with him, but they should allow him to die first.

Mr Odebowale said now that the governor had returned, nobody is talking about the shenanigans that went on while he was away.

Asked if there is a plan to impeach the deputy governor, Mr Odebowale said the governor was not interested in petty politics.

He said the administration will run its full course and the governor has the right to fire anyone he found unworthy of his position in the government.

Mr Aiyedatiwa is the second person to serve as deputy governor to Mr Akeredolu.

Agboola Ajayi, who was the deputy governor in Mr Akeredolus first term from 2016 to 2020, ran against the governor in the 2020 election after surviving a bid for his impeachment.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Senate has denied allocating N100 million each to its members as a form of palliative to cushion the effect of removal of petrol subsidy.

The Senate spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu, in a statement on Thursday said the reports indicating that the National Assembly allocated N100 million each to lawmakers were false.

The Assistant Secretary-General of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Christopher Onyeka, on Tuesday was reported to have said members of the National Assembly received over N100 million each as palliatives to cushion the effect of the petrol subsidy removal, while poor Nigerians are given rice.

The Nigerian Senate has 109 members.

But the Senate spokesperson insisted that the allegation is an attempt to incite the public against members of the Nigerian National Assembly.

What do these negative characters want to gain from their lies and falsehood against the National Assembly? This is strange to us, very ludicrous and unthinkable.

There is no 100m for a legislator anywhere. From which budget is this coming from? How, where and when? This is another satanic ploy of a miserable gang of media and political dark angels, to bring the Nigerian parliament into disrepute and pitch the legislators against the Nigerian public.

READ ALSO:

We believe that the public is aware that popular democracy is anathema to some unpatriotic political mercenaries, hence their systemic blackmail of the parliament, which undoubtedly is the soul of democracy and sovereignty, he said.

Mr Adaramodu urged the public to disregard the claim.

We urge the public and especially, the Nigerian workers, to disregard these unscrupulous pontiffs. The legislators, who are chosen among the masses of the people, shall certainly be with the people and eternally for the people.

The House of Representatives through its spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, on Tuesday also denied that its members received N100 million each.

Legal action

Mr Adaramodu said the Senate will not hesitate to take legal action against anyone who spreads false information about lawmakers.

The National Assembly shall not hesitate, henceforth to take constitutional and legal actions against these irreverent merchants of rumours and ill wills against legislators. The National Assembly should not be taken as a political scapegoat.

We dont expect anything less from the NLC leadership, we only opined that they would place national interest above partisan nihilistic outbursts.

If the Congress wishes to serve as the conscience of Nigerian workers, it must purge itself of catalytic political voyages that can truncate our democracy. We believe that Nigerians see this new unscrupulous advocacy as a comedy to entertain only the unsuspecting, the Senate spokesperson said.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says troops of Armed Forces of Nigeria, have in the last two weeks eliminated a total of 151 terrorists and apprehended 456 others in different operations across the country.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba, a major general, stated this while giving update of military operations across the country on Thursday in Abuja.

Mr Buba said the troops of Operation Hadin Kai killed 44 terrorists, arrested 21 and rescued four kidnapped hostages during the period.

He said the troops recovered 17 AK47 rifles, three locally fabricated rifles, three locally made guns, one berretta pistol, three Dane guns and 116 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo.

Also recovered according to him, are five rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 13 rounds of 9mm ammo, 20 rounds of 7.62 mm x 54 ammo, 42 empty and cases of 7.62 mm x 54 ammo.

READ ALSO:

Others are 12 magazines, 50 jerry cans of PMS, three vehicles, five mobile phones, six motorcycles, three cutlasses and the sum of N3.18 million.

Mr Buba said the troops arrested some suspected terrorists collaborators in Jere and Biu in Borno State, as well as Gujba Local Government Area in Yobe State.

He said that troops also ambushed and raided suspected terrorists hideouts in Konduga and Gwoza Local Government Areas of Borno.

The director said that the offensives resulted in elimination of terrorists and recovery of arms and ammunitions.

In the North-central, Mr Buba said the troops of Operation Safe Haven killed 16 terrorists, arrested 16 and rescued one kidnapped hostage within the period.

He said they also recovered 12 AK47 rifles, two pistols, five locally fabricated rifles, six dane guns, 32 rounds of 7.62mm special, 15 magazines and three motorcycles.

Under Operation Whirl Stroke, he said the troops killed 15 terrorists, arrested six and rescued one kidnapped hostage as well as recovery of arms and ammunition.

In North-west, the defence spokesperson said the troops of Operations Hadarin Daji and Whirl Punch, killed 35 terrorists, arrested eight and rescued 17 kidnapped hostages within the period.

He added that the air components of the various operations had continued to annihilate the terrorists from their various hideouts with series of air interactions.

(NAN)

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


A committee set up by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has presented its report on livestock reforms to President Bola Tinubu.

The report made recommendations on how to end herders-farmers conflicts in the country.

The 27-member committee, chaired by the former Chairman of INEC, Attahiru Jega, was set up by Mr Ganduje in January while he was still the governor of Kano State.

At the inauguration of the committee in January, Mr Ganduje said the National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP) proposed by the federal government to tackle the problem had not yielded results because of inadequate political leadership.

Mr Ganduje, while presenting the committee to President Tinubu at the State House on Thursday, said its report had the capacity to end the farmers/herders clashes in Nigeria.

He said the introduction of innovative ideas in livestock production is a must to end the herders/farmers clashes in Nigeria.

The former Kano State governor said climate change and other factors have diminished the capacity of Nigeria to meet its livestock needs, noting that the adoption of innovations and practices is a matter of survival.

Mr Ganduje said he was able to maintain peace in Kano State during his eight-year tenure because he adopted proactive measures.

The low productivity of the sector has made Nigeria an import-dependent economy draining scarce foreign reserves used for importing dairy, meat and other livestock products. Similarly, the conflicts are resulting in killings of citizens and loss of livelihoods, further affecting peaceful coexistence in the country.

With increasing populations, ecological changes such as soil erosion and degradation of grazing areas and changing climates, adopting innovative crops and livestock production practices is no longer luxury but an essential investment that this people-centred administration under your leadership needs to vigorously pursue, he said.

Mr Jega was not at the presentation but was represented by the Chairman of the Technical Committee, Yahaya Kuta.

Farmers/Herders clashes

PREMIUM TIMES on several occasions, reported the killings and kidnappings of some farmers by suspected herdsmen. In some cases, herders allegedly destroy farmlands with their cattle but nothing was done to make them face the wrath of the law.

The killings have been more pronounced in the North-central geopolitical zone, particularly in Benue and Plateau states.

The National Economic Council (NEC) had in 2019 approved the NLTP with the major aim of investing in the livestock sector to provide ranches and mitigate the escalating crises between pastoralists and farmers.

NLTP is built on six key pillars: economic investment, conflict resolution, law and order, humanitarian relief, information education and strategic communication; and cross-cutting issues.

Gandujes full statement:

Remarks by HE, Dr Umar Abdullahi Ganduje, OFR,

National Chairman of the AlI Progressive Congress at the Presentation of the Report on Livestock Reforms to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR on Thursday, September 14, 2023 at the Presidential Villa, Abuja

Protocol

It is gratifying to lead this team of patriotic Nigerians and experts in various fields of human endeavour before Mr President to present the report of the national conference on Livestock reforms. The Report grew out of the urgent need to reform and develop the livestock industry and to provide solutions to the age-long conflicts between herders and farmers in Nigeria. The low productivity of the sector has made Nigeria an import-dependent economy draining scarce foreign reserves used for importing dairy, meat and other livestock products. Similarly, the conflicts is resulting in killings of citizens and loss of livelihoods, further affecting peaceful coexistence in the country. With increasing populations, ecological changes such as soil erosion and degradation of grazing areas and changing climates, adopting innovative crops and livestock production practices is no longer luxury but an essential investment that this people-centred administration under your leadership needs to vigorously pursue.

READ ALSO:

2. There have been repeated attempts to develop the livestock industry with varying levels of failures and successes. The adoption of improved production practices that will increase productivity and help the cattle owners to permanently settle have been abysmal due to many factors such as inadequate planning and funding of programmes, weak extension services as well as other cultural, economic and technological barriers. The persistence of these problems has allowed unhealthy competition and acrimony to grow among farmers and herders resulting to violent conflicts across the country.

3. As the Governor of Kano State, my administration pursued deliberate efforts of promoting the modernisation of livestock production, while at the same time strengthening local authorities to manage relationships and amicably resolve conflicts between the groups. For this reason, Kano State remained among the most peaceful States in the country throughout our 8 years of governance.

It is these and other related experiences that this Committee reviewed and analysed, while also drawing from varied experiences across the World to come out with practical recommendations for reforming the livestock industry at the national level.

4. The committee that prepared this Report is made up of eminent Nigerians under the Chairmanship of Prof Attahiru Jega with members from the organised private sector, academia, practising pastoralists and farmers, representatives of farming and pastoralists communities, civil society organisations and specialists in various fields of livestock development and conflicts management.

They work assiduously to organize a national conference on 13th and 14th February 2023 with about 500 participants including traditional rulers, technocrats, bureaucrats, practitioners, farmers and pastoralists organisations, civil society organisations, international organisations, development experts and other range of professionals and stakeholders at national and international levels contributed to the discourse on the most viable options for achieving sustainable modernization of livestock production and achieving peaceful and harmonious relations between farmers and pastoralists.

5. Mr. President, I am convinced that the Report submitted to you here today has the antidote to the problems of the livestock industry. It addresses the key reforms and presents various development options needed for the sustainable development of the sector.

The implementation of the proposals will enhance productivity, improve livelihoods, promote environmental conservation, address substantial causes of conflicts between farmers and pastoralists and help in reducing the high cost of imports of animal products like milk and beef.

There are clear strategies for ensuring inclusion and benefits for all Nigerians devoid of any political, ethnic or regional biases. It is a strictly development document suitable for guiding Federal, State and Local Government administrations on how best to promote the industry, enhance the quality of lives of the citizens and promote peaceful coexistence and social harmony.

6. I use this rare privilege to appeal to Mr. President to personally study the Report and to direct for its full implementation. A key recommendation is the need to establish a Federal Authority to be charged with the mandate of leading the sustainable reforms and development of the livestock sector. The proposed Livestock Reforms and Development Authority need to be empowered and fully funded for the benefit of the country.

7. Mr. President, let me at this juncture, invite the Chairman of the Committee, Professor Attahiru Jega, who is unavoidably absent but has mandated the Chairman of the Technical Committee, Professor Yahaya Kuta to make this presentation.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Aliyu Ahmed as the new Federal Commissioner/Chief Executive Officer of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI).

This was contained in a statement by the presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, on Thursday in Abuja.

The statement said Mr Ahmed is a recipient of Bachelors and Masters degrees in Sociology and has previously served the Nasarawa State Government as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG); Commissioner of Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs; and as the Commissioner of Education.

READ ALSO: Tinubu appoints CEO for new investment agency

The new CEO replaces Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who was recently appointed the minister of state for police affairs.

By this directive of the president, the appointment takes immediate effect, the statement said.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal has overturned the decision of the National and State Houses of Assembly Election Tribunal in Asaba, which declared Ndudi Elumelu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as winner of the Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency election in Delta State.

A three-member panel of the court headed by Mohammed Shuaibu, on Thursday, declared Ngozi Okolie of the Labour Party as winner of the election.

The Court of Appeal is the final court on legislative election petitions.

Mr Shuaibu upheld the arguments by Mr Okolies lawyer, Mahmud Magaji, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) that the appellant was duly nominated by his party.

The justice said Mr Okolie resigned his appointment as a Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Delta State Government within the statutory period as enshrined in Section 66(1)(f) of the constitution.

Nigerias electoral commission, INEC, had declared Mr Okolie winner of the 25 February poll, but Mr Elumelu, a former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, contested the election outcome before the tribunal.

Mr Elumelu premised his suit on the ground that Mr Okolie was not validly nominated by the Labour Party, arguing that the latter did not resign his appointment 30 days before the election, as constitutionally required.

The trial tribunal chaired by A. Z. Mussa, had in its judgement on 24 July nullified Mr Okolies victory based on Mr Elumelus arguments.

The appellate court held that the the tribunal lacked the jurisdiction to have delved into the issue of political party nomination which it said was a pre-election matter.

the nomination and sponsorship of a candidate is an internal affair of a party, Mr Shuaibu said.

Referencing a plethora of cases, the justice justice noted that Mr Elumelu and the PDP lacked the legal standing to sue Mr Okolies emergence as flagbearer of the Labour Party.

The 1st and 2nd respondents (Mr Elumelu and the PDP, who are not members of the appellant (Mr Okolie and LP) are meddlesome interlopers.

Awards N100,000 cost against Elumelu

In dismissing the suit, the court awarded N100,000 fine against Mr Elumelu and the PDP in favour of Mr Okolie.

The lead judgment in the appeal by Mr Okolie was drafted by a member of the panel, Habeeb Abiru, but read on Thursday by Mr Shuaibu.

Meanwhile, the appellate court upbraided INEC lawyer, E. O. Okoko for holding conflicting positions at the tribunal and at the Court of Appeal.

I must specifically comment on the conduct of the counsel to the 3rd respondent (INEC), Mr. E. O. Okoko, which I consider unprofessional and deserving condemnation, Mr Shuaibu said.

The justice decried Mr Okokos conduct when he supported Mr Okolie at the tribunal, but argued in favour of Mr Elumelu and at the Appeal Court, which necessitated the courts rejection his filings in the suit.

Parties and counsel must be consistent in handling their cases both at the trial court and on appeal. In the instant case, the 3rd respondent, the supposed election umpire, has not exhibited neutrality through the conduct of the said counsel.

The 3rd respondents reply, at pages 188 to 189 of the record, implicitly admitted that the appellant (LP) conducted a primary which produced the 4th respondent (Mr Okolie), but recanted its argument before us wherein it submitted that the 1st and 2nd respondents have the locus standi to present an election petition and that the 4th respondent was not duly sponsored having not emerged from any primary.

Further more, appeal is generally regarded as a continuation of the original suit rather than the inception of a new one. And, in appeal, parties are confined to their cases as pleaded at the court of first instance. On the strength of the forgoing, the 3rd respondents amended brief is hereby discountenanced. I say no more, the court held.

Therefore, the courts ruling on Thursday effectively brings Mr Elumelus twelve-year legislative career to an end.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has expressed concern over the increasing attacks of terrorists, locally referred to as bandits in the state.

Mr Mohammed called for urgent intervention of the the federal government. He said the terror gangs from other states are increasingly attacking defenslceless communities in the state.

Mr Mohammed made the call for assistance during a meeting with traditional rulers in the state at the Government House on Wednesday.

He told the traditional rulers that terror gangs from neighbouring states fleeing increased military operations are relocating to the state.

Because of the Federal Governments sustained war against bandits and terrorism in other zones of the country, the state is becoming a hiding place for the unscrupulous elements who are beginning to disturb the peace of the citizens.

Other states are moving ahead, we have one of the largest populations in the region and so with the activities of the Federal Government in other parts of the geopolitical zones, the bandits are coming to Bauchi, he said.

With regards to internal security, I am glad to inform you that we have established a Ministry of Internal Security that will partner with the Federal Government just to drive the issue of providing internal security, Mr Mohammed added.

He told the traditional rulers that the state government is working with conventional security agencies to improve security.

The governor warned the traditional rulers to always respect the sanctity of their various offices and make sure they know who comes in and goes out of their domains as this will help spot criminals more easily.

Mr Mohammed told them that the government would deal decisively or remove any traditional ruler that was found to be collaborating with criminals.

Bauchi blamed traditional rulers for collaborating with bandits and worsening the insecurity of the region.

Mr Mohammed then appealed to President Bola Tinubu not to overlook the state when making security policies despite being governed by an opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

We cannot be left out because we are in the opposition, we have to be in the mainstream.

Nothing works in Nigeria without Bauchi. We are controlling the balance of power, the balance of tradition and knowledge. I am calling on the Federal Government not to ignore us because we are in PDP. We are a state and we are ready to work with the Federal Government, the governor said.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


Russia has been receiving ammunition from North Korea for month and half  Budanov

Russia has been receiving ammunition from North Korea for one month and a half, Head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Defense Ministry of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov has said, commenting on a meeting between two dictators  Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin  in Russia.

"When they says that Putin is going to sign something  this is false because everything has been already agreed one month and a half ago and the delivery [of ammunition] from North Korea started," he said in an interview with NV, according to the press service of the Main Intelligence Directorate.

According to him, North Korea supplies Russia with 120mm and 152mm shells for Soviet guns, rockets for Grad systems and a large number of tank ammunition.

Budanov noted that North Korea is capable of producing projectiles in significant quantities because, unlike Russia, the regime in Pyongyang has maintained facilities for mass production of weapons. According to the Ukrainian intelligence, Russian military-industrial complex enterprises satisfy the planned needs of the occupying army for shells by only 3-7%.

Budanov also said that supplies of North Korean weapons can "slightly satisfy the occupiers' hunger for shells."

The head of the Ukrainian intelligence also that that the Kremlin is seeking to receive millions of shipments of ammunition from North Korea.

"This is such an order. How much the Koreans will be able to transfer quickly is the question," Budanov said.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, on Thursday said the Global Vaccine Alliance, GAVI has promised to prioritise Nigeria in the rollout of the R21/Matrix-Mmalaria vaccine.

Mr Pate, who made this known during Gavis visit to the Primary Healthcare Centre in New Karu, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, said malaria is a very important disease that should be addressed.

Gavi just told us that they will prioritise Nigeria in the rollout of the new malaria vaccine over time, he said.

That does not mean no more nets, that does not mean no treatment, but at least we have additional tools in the fight against malaria.

Malaria burden

Malaria, a disease caused by a parasite, spread to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes, kills more than 600,000 people yearly, mostly children in sub-Saharan Africa.

Nigeria, Africas most populous nation, also accounts for a high percentage of the malaria burden globally.

The 2022 Nigeria Malaria Report shows that malaria death rates in Nigeria dropped by 55 per cent between the years 2000 and 2021, and incidence also dropped by 26 per cent within the same period.

However, with the approval of a new vaccine- R21/Matrix-M, there is hope of ending the disease.

Malaria Vaccine

The Nigerian government in April, approved a new malaria vaccine from Oxford University, becoming the second country after Ghana in the world to grant such approval.

The vaccine- R21/Matrix-M, is developed by the University of Oxford and manufactured by the Serum Institute of India.

The R21, otherwise referred to as the Matrix-M malaria vaccine, is the second vaccine ever developed for the disease.

Despite accounting for high cases of Malaria, Nigeria was in July excluded from the list of 12 African countries to receive 18 million doses of the vaccine from 2023 to 2025.

According to a statement jointly issued by Gavi, WHO, and UNICEF, the vaccine has been administered to more than 1.7 million children in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi since 2019 and is safe and effective, resulting in a substantial reduction in severe malaria and a fall in child deaths.

They also said at least 28 African countries have expressed interest in receiving the malaria vaccine.

READ ALSO:

In addition to Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi, the initial 18 million dose allocation will enable nine more countries, including Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Liberia, Niger, Sierra Leone, and Uganda, to introduce the vaccine into their routine immunisation programmes for the first time.

Investment in immunisation

During the visit, the Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Faisal Shuaib, said the choice of Nasarawa State is because of its investments in immunisation and Primary Health Care.

Mr Shuaib said the dividends of the visit would be visible over the next few weeks.

In his remark, the Chief Executive Officer of Gavi, David Marlow, said GAVIs visit is part of activities to look after the countries they work in.

Mr Marlow said GAVI will continue the strong partnership that has been built over many years since the year 2000.

We have been active in Nigeria and although there have been many accomplishments in making progress in overall health care in the country, there is still a huge amount of work to be done, he said.

I spoke with the minister about the future opportunity to prevent deaths in Nigeria and the potential by 2030 to save 5.6 million peoples lives, and that does not even exclude many other potential vaccines such as malaria that we can bring to this country. 

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Ohaneye, has said she will ensure those who lie during the ongoing investigation of the alleged sexual assault at the University of Calabar, are prosecuted and jailed.

PREMIUM TIMES had reported how on 14 August, female students of the law faculty held a peaceful rally against the varsitys Dean, Faculty of Law, Cyril Ndifon, whom they accused of sexual harassment, an allegation he denied.

He told this newspaper that the protest was sponsored by lecturers in the faculty who did not like his style of leadership.

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Florence Obi, told PREMIUM TIMES that the university management would investigate the allegations but that the students would be required to provide evidence to support their complaints.

Minister reacts

Sequel to the probe, the minister in a video seen by PREMIUM TIMES on Thursday, warned parties in the probe.

Whoever lies in this Calabar sexual case will go to jail. I will personally make sure that all (guilty persons) involved in this shameful act shall be prosecuted and jailed. I am pleading with you, I want justice to be done.

If you have complaints or anything to talk about concerning this case, head to the panel because the investigation is still ongoing. Go there and lay the complaint but dont lie. Because if you lie, I will make sure you are prosecuted and jailed if found guilty.

This statement was made shortly after the release of a report and audio by Sahara Reporters, which claimed that the minister threatened to jail a female student of the university if her testimony is false.

Speaking further in the video, Mrs Ohaneye urged that the probe be used as a big opportunity for us to put an end to this numerous sexual harassment or false accusation.

We must get it right and justice must be done. Whether you are the vice chancellor, whether you are a professor or the student, any of you that lies will surely be prosecuted and jailed, if found guilty, she added.

Background

This is not the first time Mr Ndifon will be in the news for sexual harassment and for allegedly demanding for sex in exchange for awarding grades.

He was previously suspended by the school authorities in 2015, a move upheld by the Industrial court, when the graduating law class of 2004 petitioned the then Cross River State Commissioner of Police alleging that the lecturer raped a 20-year-old law student in his office. He challenged this in court.

His suspension was lifted about a year later under unclear circumstances.

But Gender Advocates have tasked the new minister of women affairs and the vice chancellor of the university to ensure Mr Ndifon is brought to book if found guilty.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


Yet, in a heartening manner, according to the June crude oil production report of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, the countrys crude oil earnings rose to over N1.68 trillion in June, following an increase in the countrys output in May The report majorly attributed the increase to concerted efforts by security officials and oil operators, which means the fight against oil theft is gaining momentum.

Since his appointment as National Security Adviser (NSA) by President Bola Tinubu, Malam Nuhu Ribadu has been emphasising the importance of curbing crude oil theft and losses to the country.

On his official assumption of duties, he promised to look at what his predecessor, retired Major-General Babagana Monguno had done and build on it because securing the nation is a continuous process.

Judging by recent developments, it appears that in the areas of fighting crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, Ribadu is doing exactly what he promised.

We can recall that at the tail end of the previous administration, Monguno inaugurated a Special Investigative Panel on Oil Theft/Losses in Nigeria on 6th of December, 2022.

The panel, chaired by retired Major-General Barry Ndiomu, traversed the country, especially the Niger Delta region, in search of answers to the questions posed by the incessant crude oil theft, which has characterised the exploration and marketing of Nigerias petroleum resources.

According to a statement by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), during the submission of the panels report on 28 March, some initial observations were made.

For instance, the panel observed that crude oil losses arose from a lack of the proper reporting of crude oil production, illegal refining, theft from well-heads and diversion from sophisticated pipeline networks.

The panel also attributed losses to the absence of a robust industry-wide metering system and an unworkable security arrangement.

The confusing roles of regulatory agencies were also cited as one of the reasons the detection of theft/losses was difficult.

Last year, the countrys crude production struggled to exceed one million barrels per day, leading to concerns over loss of revenue, environment degradation, pipeline vandalism and the general impact on the economy.

However, through a collaborative effort coordinated by ONSA, there is a positively hopeful prospect that the present administration can stem the tide of the heinous crime called oil theft.

In June, the Nigerian Navy said it had intensified its war against oil theft and related maritime crimes on the waterways in the Niger Delta.

True to that assurance, a combined team of anti-oil theft troops recently uncovered a major illegal oil refining site at Owahwa community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

During the raid, the troops discovered 35 modular ovens, three fabricated reservoirs, 30 dug-out reservoirs and 75 galvanised pipes.

Experts say that apart from revenue loss, the operators of illegal refineries cause environmental degradation because after stealing small quantities of crude oil from vandalised pipelines, they leave volumes to spill and pollute the environment.

Yet, in a heartening manner, according to the June crude oil production report of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, the countrys crude oil earnings rose to over N1.68 trillion in June, following an increase in the countrys output in May.

The report majorly attributed the increase to concerted efforts by security officials and oil operators, which means the fight against oil theft is gaining momentum.

But NSA Ribadu is not in a cheering mood yet.

While recently leading a presidential delegation to inspect oil and gas facilities in Abia and Rivers states, Ribadu said the country was still losing 400,000 barrels of crude oil daily to local and international thieves.

Part of the strategy the new NSA is deploying to address the issue is collaboration (he calls it a united front), which security experts say is key in the fight against oil theft.

The NSA said during the inspection: We are working hard with the security forces and those employed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to secure our facilities and end this madness called oil theft.

The Minister of Defence, Baduru Abubakar; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and Minister of State (Oil), Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri; the Minister of State (Gas), Petroleum Resources, Ekperipe Ekpo; and Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, Mele Kyari were all on the delegation.

Stakeholders say the weight of the delegation indeed signifies a united front against the message which poses a serious threat to overall national security.

No doubt, protecting Nigerias critical infrastructure and safeguarding its sources of revenue are important elements of its national security.

The US National Security Strategy (2010) states that the freedom to exercise choice of policies to develop a nations economy in the manner desired invites economic security.

It also emphasises the importance of economic security when it says: Economic security today forms, arguably, as important a part of national security as military security.

The creation and protection of jobs that supply defense and non-defense needs are vital to national security.

This is why the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri was correct when he said oil theft and pipeline vandalism are an existential threat to Nigeria.

I believe that it has become an existential problem and we need to fight it. We need to fight these criminals to submission, he said.

Nigerias National Security Strategy (2019) identifies energy security as critical to the economic growth and prosperity of the country.

Chapter 3 of the policy document states that: Crude oil-related crimes such as illegal bunkering and refining, pipeline vandalism, as well as crude oil theft pose a threat to Nigerias economy Our national security strategy will therefore focus on ways to curb and eliminate these crimes for the improved economic well-being of our country.

Understandably, President Tinubu has prioritised oil theft, insurgency, and separatist agitation in his security agenda.

Stakeholders say the momentum gained in the fight against oil theft should be seen as part of efforts to boost Nigerias overall maritime security architecture, in accordance with the National Security Strategy.

It is believed that almost all the components of the Tinubu administrations eight-point agenda aimed at moving the Nigerian economy forward, depend significantly on ending crude oil theft and losses.

This is why the fresh approach spearheaded by Ribadu should not wane.

Zakari U. Mijinyawa wrote from Abuja.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


My friend, lets call him Banga, is adamant that he has to go back to school. Why? At what age? I had asked him, knowing that he would soon be 70. He sat me down and gave me a long explanation. Let me give you a summary of our discussion.

The main reason that Banga wants new knowledge is social media or digital social networking technology. Yes, the new world of social media intrigues and confuses him. Somewhere, at some special school, he reasoned, he could find answers.

Banga is not new to communication. It was his life-long career. Indeed, he had been at the forefront of experts who defined the new paths for mass media, online and virtual communication which is how social media originated. He used to make definitive pronouncements to academics and professionals on traditional media, new media, and alternative media. He had used terms like artificial intelligence, fake news, deep fake and fact-checking before they became more mainstream language.

Yet he said that he has been dumbfounded by the implications of social media and the effects it can have on society and normal people. He said that his five human senses make no sense to him any longer. Intuitively, after many decades of dealing with theories and practices of communication, he could see, hear, touch, smell and almost taste the facts in what was presented to him. He could read, see or hear the information, and without hesitation, he could decipher the main points, separate the embellishments and throw out the untruths.

Now, there are more questions than answers in what he reads, hears or views mainly on social media. In the new clime, a video that is shot by just anybody can pass on as information, when it is a tool of disinformation or misinformation. Banga would be the first to admit that social media serves as a veritable tool to achieve many useful purposes and that it has many good uses. However, the negative uses seem to be climbing higher.

He met with Julius, his very good friend, in Johannesburg late last year for lunch and usual beers. Banga lost his appetite during lunch and left the place dejected because Julius insisted that the then President of Nigeria, Mohammadu Buhari, died a long time ago. The person who was serving as President Buhari was a look-alike who came from Sudan, Julius insisted, adding that he had much evidence from social media to confirm it. My friend was angry that anyone would believe such a fallacy, least of all a normal, educated and reasoning person like Julius. The lunch became a heated argument between Banga and Julius on who was crazy, stupid or both, and the friendship was only saved when they agreed to shake hands anyway and parted.

My friends sister called him a few years ago and wept on the phone because Microsoft owner Bill Gates was going around Africa selling syringes that contained HIV to make sure that HIV and AIDS killed millions of Africans as COVID did not do a good job in the continent. During the call, my friend laughed his sisters story off and merrily retorted that it was incorrect and that it could not even happen because the virus would not live that long in such a device. His unhappy sister, thoroughly displeased that Banga made a joke of the important matter, refused to speak with him for weeks afterwards. Other family members also took sides with his sister or him. A family was almost torn apart.

A video which became immensely popular on social media was shown to me by Banga. The video shot in a commercial bank, showed armed robbers who came in, ordered everyone to lie down and took money from the bank and helpless customers. Just as the robbers were about to get out of the bank, a young girl stood up, stretched her two arms, and ordered the robbers to put the money down and start jumping around in the bank hall. Everyone there at the bank watched in amazement as the robbers kept jumping around until the police came and arrested them.

The video was watched by several thousands of people on the usual major social media, and it was still circulating as we spoke. My friend said that he produced the video to test practically the capability to believe of social media users. Three weeks after he had noticed the high popularity of his video, he went around asking those who had seen the video whether they believed it. Only four out of 100 respondents said that they wondered how such a video could be made in the turbulence of an armed robbery incident at a bank. All other viewers believed what they saw and admired the young heroine who overcame the robbers with her powers, whatever they were. My friend was alarmed that people would unquestionably believe the scenes in his video.

Having given up on common sense, Banga wanted to re-educate himself. Social media is increasingly becoming more popular worldwide. About half of the global population of eight billion are on social media, mainly using the big ones. Banga told me that his mind told him that he risked losing his family ties, alienating those close to him and in vain seeking long explanations, if he did not grasp the power of social media as the strongest popular communication asset, or war equipment.

Whilst waiting to find the right school, Banga doesnt accept information as factual until he has questioned, checked and attained a reasonable level of satisfaction on the matter. Routinely, he checks three sources for the same information and feels reassured if the facts are the same or at least similar for all sources. During political campaigns, he prefers to watch live broadcasts of events on television rather than rely on the opinions of experts and commentators.

Banga has concluded that many people do not know what they do not know and they claim to know. Anybody with a smartphone can claim expertise in areas that they do not know anything about. After all, they saw it on social media. They can rebroadcast fiction as facts and get millions of people to consume and accept the information.

Many people are happy to have some unknown person on social media confirm their hopes, beliefs and wishes. May facts rest in peace and who cares?

Above all, my friend says, knowledge used to be the basis for power, but gradually social media is replacing knowledge as the platform for power, with its strength as a democratic media yet a veritable tool for spreading misinformation and bias.

Bunmi Makinwa is the CEO of AUNIQUEI Communication for Leadership.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


What I hear former Supreme Court Justice Akintan say, clearly in Reminiscences, is that the fewer court-imposed candidates we have  and one might add, the less crooked the political parties, the election management body and the media  the better for the electoral system and the judiciary.

Its not often that you meet Supreme Court justices, serving or retired. I first met retired Justice Sunday Akinola Akintan casually at a reception in Abuja, for my friend and radical lawyer, Yinka Olumide-Fusika, who had then been admitted to the inner bar. We met again about one year later, this time through his book.

Years after his retirement from the Supreme Court in 2008, Justice Akintan wrote a book entitled, Reminiscences: My Journey Through Life, which Olumide-Fusika (SAN) asked me to review. What struck me was one of Akintans motivations for writing the book. It was an answer to T.O.S Bensons advice not to be buried without writing a book, which would be the waste of a lifes worth of information; a library.

If his lordship decided to write just to remember the road he travelled and to share his odyssey, it would still have been a good book. But it was even better because, in a profession where the burden of office elevates discretion almost to the oeuvre of a cult, his desire to shed light is a valuable gift.

There are a couple of rare insights in the book. One of them, which has assumed significant monstrosity over the years, is how the judiciary could not see that getting more and more involved in deciding electoral outcomes would drag it in the mud.

Or maybe the judiciary saw it but decided, with a helping hand from the inner bar, to take Oscar Wildes advice to overcome the problem by yielding to it. And now, its beyond entanglement; the Bench is enmeshed!

Over 10 hours of studiously reading a judgment, which five judges of the Court of Appeal must have thought was their utmost to deliver justice, still left behind a trail of disenchantment, suspicion and criticisms. Not a few, rather sadly and regrettably, still believe it was the judicial equivalent of a grudge match.

As it was

The judgment of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPT) last week, in the case involving the presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar; Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP); and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), in which the panel dismissed the petitions against the 25 February election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has once again put the judiciary in the spotlight.

In the midst of the outrage that followed the judgment, especially among the supporters of Abubakar and Obi, I turned, once again, to Justice Akintans book for help to find my way through the maelstrom. And he should know. Hes seen election petitions since 1979.

Its a measure of how we have learnt to forget that the account of the retired justice of the Supreme Court of what happened 20 years ago reads like excerpts from todays newspapers. If we had paid any heed then, its unlikely that the country would be in a place today where the outcome of virtually every election depends not on who voters chose at the ballot, but on who the courts decide is winner.

There was something about the 2003 election that set his hair on edge and raked his conscience over the coals of the sacred pledge he had made to himself and his family at the beginning of his career, not to stain his name. Post-election litigations up and down the country were fierce and bitter.

In Reminiscences, Akintan writes that one of the two most significant things that happened to him when he returned to the Port Harcourt division, on a rare second tour of duty as Presiding Judge of the Court of Appeal, was dealing with matters arising from the 2003 general elections.

There was something about the 2003 election that set his hair on edge and raked his conscience over the coals of the sacred pledge he had made to himself and his family at the beginning of his career, not to stain his name. Post-election litigations up and down the country were fierce and bitter.

But the one between ANPPs presidential candidate, Muhammadu Buhari, and candidate of the PDP, Olusegun Obasanjo, after the 2003 election, was so bitter and so fierce that Buhari called for nationwide protests, because he said the judiciary had been compromised.

Clear, present danger

That was only a foreshadow of what was to come. As the years went by, the judiciary came under increasing strain. The stakes, for politicians, got even higher. They exposed the judges and the entire staff of the judiciary to contacts with the politicians, Akintan writes, with the attendant possibility of exposing them to corruption. What was then a possibility is now a consuming danger.

Akintan was assigned 52 petitions in Port Harcourt alone. On top of that, the President of the Court of Appeal told him he had to go to Jos for eight pending governorship election petitions, which the Court President obviously needed a trustworthy judge to handle.

To avoid contact with litigants and their lawyers, never mind the felicity of some determined folks, even thinking of sending him Sallah ram directly or by proxy, as we heard in a recent case in Kano, Akintan moved his base from Port Harcourt to his home town, Idanre, Ondo State.

In spite of the severe scarcity of petrol at the time, it was from Idanre that he commuted weekly to Jos through Abuja. Even in Jos, he still could not trust his driver would not be used to get him.

Once we arrived in the court in Jos, he recalls, I used to collect the car ignition key from my driver to ensure there was no breach of the car being taken into town for any reason.

According to Akintan, by the time he retired from the Supreme Court in 2008, the system had almost been overwhelmed with politicians working hand-in-gloves with lawyers to suborn elections. Trust and confidence had become casualties.

If there is no dichotomy in the status of residents, and they have no exclusive proprietary right over and above citizens anywhere in the country, how can they claim a casting vote that holds the country to ransom at elections? It would be interesting to see how the Supreme Court answers this and other questions that would come before it in the Abubakar-Obi appeal.

The position grew so wild after the 2015 elections, he writes, that the number of election petitions far outstripped all other cases filed in all the courts in the country. Many of the senior lawyers who had cornered the very lucrative briefs from the election petitions amassed stupendous wealth.

Unfortunately, and in spite of the valiant efforts by a few conscientious judges still on the Bench, the cloud of suspicion has, regrettably, thickened.

Abuja special status

Apart from Akintans personal decision to be different, there was something else in Reminiscences that caught my attention: the judgment in Joseph Ona & another V. Diga Romani Atenda (2000), 5 NWLR (Pt. 656) 244 in which he played a leading role. This judgment by the Court of Appeal, in my view, addressed one of the vexatious points in Obis petition that a candidate must have 25 per cent of the votes cast in Abuja or else cannot be declared validly elected.

Until I read the summary judgment in the book, I was under the impression that Abuja residents had two heads; that apart from having a special political status, the dichotomy between settlers and indigenes was also real.

But in the judgment in the case under reference  a case of trespass, harassment, humiliation and defamation in a land dispute  which was, in fact, referred from the High Court to the Court of Appeal for determination, the court made it clear that residents of the Federal Capital Territory are by no means special.

In the words of Akintan, It is (therefore) totally illegal for any of them to claim any special right over any other Nigerian occupier of the territory.

Conclusion of the matter

If there is no dichotomy in the status of residents, and they have no exclusive proprietary right over and above citizens anywhere in the country, how can they claim a casting vote that holds the country to ransom at elections? It would be interesting to see how the Supreme Court answers this and other questions that would come before it in the Abubakar-Obi appeal.

What I hear former Supreme Court Justice Akintan say, clearly in Reminiscences, is that the fewer court-imposed candidates we have  and one might add, the less crooked the political parties, the election management body and the media  the better for the electoral system and the judiciary.

Azu Ishiekwene is Editor-in-Chief of LEADERSHIP.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has commended the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) for its intervention in the construction of the proposed Centre for Skills Development and Training (CSDT) at Omagwa, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The project, initiated by the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) to promote acquisition of skills relevant to oil and gas industry operations, has been under construction since 2011. It received a much-needed boost with the entry of the NCDMB as co-financier after due negotiations with the PTDF.

Disciplines earmarked for the CSDT by the PTDF include automobile works, basic electrical works, basic requirements in Health Safety and Environment (HSE), catering, electronics repairs, masonry, seismic survey technology, welding, and fabrication.

At 85 percent completion, the scope and quality of work done were impressive to the Minister, who arrived at the project site on facility tour on Wednesday. However, he was displeased that the project execution has been stalled because of wrangling between the PTDF and contractors over variation-related issues and prolonged delays in payment.

The Minister who was accompanied on the tour by the Executive Secretary, NCDMB, Mr Simbi Kesiye Wabote, and the Executive Secretary of PTDF, Mr Aminu Ahmed Galadima, said the project was of great significance and does not have to remain uncompleted any longer. We have to move forward, he stated, adding that further intervention by the Board is necessary to reap the full benefits of the investments already made.

After interrogation of some contractors and confirmation by the PTDF boss that funds are now available for payment to one of them, Senator Lokpobiri extracted a commitment from the latter that the outstanding section of work would be completed within six weeks.

Overall, for the Centre to be successful in fulfilling the aims for its establishment, he said, We have to set up a sustainable management structure that will keep the facility at a globally acceptable standard.

Speaking earlier on how NCDMB became involved in the project, Mr Wabote, an engineer said it was the determination of the Board to check the proliferation of vocational centres, which were as many as 250 in the three states of Rivers, Bayelsa and Akwa Ibom. Most of them, he noted, were non-functional even though they had been completed and equipped. Equipment in all had been stolen or vandalised, so it became necessary to establish standardised and federal government-backed vocational centres at strategic locations.

NCDMB, according to him, had signified its preparedness to take over CSDT when it became apparent that the feuding parties, PTDF and its contractors, could not resolve their differences. He expressed optimism that the work would progress smoothly after the facility visit, and an effective management would be put in place at the time of take-off.

Earlier in a welcome address, the PTDF chief executive, Mr Galadima, thanked the Minister, the NCDMB boss and the Management of Megastar, the major contractor, and others for their presence at the site and the encouraging roles they have played thus far.

Among magnificent structures at the project site are an 8-storey Administrative Block, multistorey classroom blocks, hostels and staff quarters, workshops, and a cafeteria.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB)on Monday graduated a batch of 20 young Nigerians at the Nigerian Navy Underwater Warfare School, Navy Town, Ojo, Lagos State. The programme which was held in partnership with the Nigerian Navy and Mieka Dive Training Institute (MDTI) marked the end of a five-month commercial air dive training programme organised by the Board for the trainees certificated as Class-I and Class-II divers.

Speaking at the close-out ceremony, the Executive Secretary, NCDMB, Mr Simbi Kesiye Wabote disclosed that the rapid expansion of the Nigerian offshore industry with more oilfield development taking place in the deep offshore basin has necessitated aggressive skills development to support strategic projects, some of which are already running and others expected to come on stream in the near future.

Mr Wabote, an engineer also stated that the professional diving industry in Nigeria is currently dominated by foreigners, which is what the training seeks to address. He emphasised that the Board is tasked with the mandate of developing Nigerian Content in the oil and gas industry and its linkage sectors while prioritising human capital development for areas with identified gaps of skilled and qualified citizens.

The Executive Secretary expressed profound appreciation to the Nigerian Navy and Mieka Dive Institute for the impeccable arrangements and high safety ethics imbibed by trainers and trainees alike that made the program hugely successful, without any untoward incident. On the significance of what the participants accomplished through the training, Mr Wabote noted that their newly acquired skills and knowledge have made them assets in line with the Boards strategic objective of developing an industry skill pool of qualified Class-I and Class-II divers.

He charged the trainees to put in hard work and urged them to continuously develop and upscale their skills and certifications to meet the demands of the global industry as the future is bright for those who are willing.

In his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour and Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Naval Training Command, Lagos, Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu represented by the Commandant, NNS Quorra, Cmdr. Adamu Yahaya thanked both consultants and trainees for the successful completion of the extensive study and rigorous diving training designed to transform the trainees into professional air divers.

Rear Admiral Nwatu commended the graduates for their discipline, hardwork, determination and excellence. He enjoined them to extol the values in their future pursuits. He stated that the Nigerian Navy signed a joint venture agreement with Mieka Dive Limited to conduct commercial air diving training at the Underwater Warfare School and has trained its personnel since its inception in 2011.

The FOC indicated that the graduates who are the fourth batch of air divers trained in the facility are products of the collaboration, and thanked the Chief of Naval Staff for his visionary and unflinching support for the school while recognising the commitment of the NCDMB for sponsoring the training. He promised that the Navy will continue to provide the needed support for the courses. He congratulated the graduates and enjoined them to use the knowledge gained during the training judiciously.

Welcoming participants to the graduation ceremony, the Commanding Officer of the Underwater Warfare School, Commander Ibrahim Adewuyi maintained that during the training, the graduates were exposed to classroom lectures and practical diving operations despite the numerous challenges faced by the school during the period.

Commander Adewuyi expressed delight that these challenges were currently receiving necessary attention to be addressed in due course. He implored the graduates to be good ambassadors of the school and prayed for them to excel as they began their commercial diving career.

At the presentation of certificates and awards, William Godsgift emerged as Best Student at Practicals while Animiuworio Direla took home the Best Behaved Student Award. Others were Edemu Anthonia who won Best Student with an average score of 83%, while the Overall Best Student with a total average score of 85.6% is Aladdin John. Prior to the five-month duration of the training, graduates had undergone a rigorous selection process to qualify for the training and had drills, classroom lectures, practical sessions, and group activities.

The high point of the close-out ceremony was a live demonstration of commercial air diving by a cross-section of the graduates who simulated dive competence training in a 30-metre inshore surface tanker with the use of self-contained underwater diving apparatus, and associated devices which is a criterion by the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) fulfilled by the trainees to be issued certificates.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


Some gunmen have beheaded a chieftain of the Labour Party (LP) in Abia State, South-east Nigeria.

The victim, Zachary Maduka, a campaign director of the LP in 2023 general elections, was beheaded by the hoodlums on Wednesday night, PREMIUM TIMES learnt.

Mr Maduka, 70, hailed from Ezieke Akpukpa, a community in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of the state.

Sources told this newspaper that the gunmen numbering about 10 wielded pump action rifles, machetes and other dangerous weapons when they stormed the community.

The hoodlums, it was gathered, later shot the victim at a drinking joint in Amelechi, a village in the Akpukpa Community.

They beheaded him and left with his head, a source, who asked not to be named, said.

The deceased until his death was the chairperson of the Uturu Development Union in the community.

The police spokesperson in Abia State, Maureen Chinaka, confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday.

READ ALSO:

Ms Chinaka, an assistant superintendent of police, said a joint team of security operatives comprising the police and the military were deployed to the area upon receipt of information about the incident.

Tragically, they recovered Mr Madukas body. Photographic evidence was captured at the scene, the deceaseds remains were promptly evacuated and deposited at Marist Mortuary Uturu, she said.

She said the police had begun investigations to track down the killers of the LP chieftain.

Increased attacks

Like other states in Nigerias South-east, security has deteriorated in Abia State with frequent attacks by armed persons.

The attacks often target security agencies, government officials and facilities.

The Nigerian government has accused the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) of being responsible for the deadly attacks in the region. But the group has repeatedly denied any involvement in the attacks.

IPOB is leading the agitation for an independent state of Biafra which it wants carved out from the South-east and some parts of the South-south Nigeria.

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

WhatsApp

Telegram

LinkedIn

Email

Print


The US is slapping sanctions on more than 150 businesses and people from Russia to Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Georgia to try to crack down on evasion and deny the Kremlin access to technology, money and financial channels that fuel President Vladimir Putins war in Ukraine, the Associated Press said on the EuroNews website on Thursday.

The purpose of the action is to restrict Russias defense production capacity and to reduce the liquidity it has to pay for its war, James OBrien, head of the State Departments Office of Sanctions Coordination, told the AP.

It is reported that the sanctions package is one of the biggest by the State and Treasury departments and is the latest to target people and companies in countries, notably NATO member Turkey, that sell Western technology to Russia that could be used to bolster its war effort. The package also aims to hobble the development of Russias energy sector and future sources of cash, including Arctic natural gas projects, as well as mining and factories producing and repairing Russian weapons.

According to Reuters, the Biden administration on Thursday imposed sanctions on five Turkish companies and a Turkish national, accusing them of helping Russia evade sanctions and supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine. The U.S. Treasury Department in a statement said it imposed sanctions on Margiana Insaat Dis Ticaret and Demirci Bilisim Ticaret Sanayi, saying the Turkey-based companies were among those that Russia relied on for importing "much-needed dual-use goods to enable its unprovoked war of aggression on Ukraine." It said the former has made hundreds of shipments to sanctioned Russian entities that are part of the supply chain for producing military drones used in the Ukraine war, while the latter has sent sensors and measuring tools into Russia.

"For the past 18 months, we've shared our concerns with the Turkish government and private sector and informed them of the significant risks of doing business with those we've sanctioned who are tied to Russia's war," a senior Treasury official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

According to the official, the broader sanctions package targets Russia's industrial base, maritime sector and technology suppliers, as well as facilities producing and repairing Russian weapons systems.

According to AP, the USA is also imposing sanctions against a newly created company from the UAE that provides design and technology for the Russian Arctic project for the production of liquefied natural gas, as well as against several Russian companies involved in its development.

The U.S. package includes sanctions against several Turkish and Russian companies that, according to the State Department, help Moscow purchase American and European electronic components, such as computer chips and processors that can be used in civilian and military equipment.

The latest package of sanctions is directed against several Russian companies that repair, develop and manufacture weapons, including Kalibr cruise missiles.
Dr Amir Hashim named new PSC General Manager for Asia

SINGAPORE, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr Amir Hashim has been appointed as the new General Manager for Asia for specialist global electricity industry consultants, PSC Asia, based in Singapore.

As the APAC region advances towards net zero, Dr Amir's appointment will enhance PSC's regional capabilities and further its commitment to lead Asia through the energy transition across its multifaceted markets. PSC has always been driven by the vision to empower individuals to transform the energy industry and is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Hashim.

Commenting on the appointment, Ashley Grohn, Managing Director Asia Pacific at PSC Consulting, said: "Amir's deep experience of the energy arena in both Asia and Europe puts him in the perfect position to help advise our growing APAC customer base on the vital need to transition to greener energy sources while keeping the lights on. He is acutely aware of the myriad of issues the region's electricity sector faces, coupled with the international pressures of meeting ESG goals and aligning with global net zero aims."

Dr Hashim's career in the electricity sector spans both academia and industry. He worked for many years with Malaysia's national utility provider, TNB, where he was involved in high-voltage power generation, transmission, distribution of electricity, and retail for the overall Malaysian market. Prior to joining PSC Consulting, he served as the principal consultant for the German technology company Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen in the APAC region.

The newly appointed GM said: "I am excited to join the team at PSC, which is ready, willing, and able to help APAC electricity providers with the intricate transition to more sustainable energy sources. As Asia strives to reduce its carbon intensity in power generation, meet ESG standards, and create carbon credits, I look forward to helping them in this transition.

"The social and political drivers to net zero in Asia differ significantly from those in Europe and the States. Governments and utilities in the region need a comfort level to advance swiftly. With support from the PSC team, companies can gain the assurance and confidence to rapidly meet their energy transition targets," he concluded.

About PSC

SOURCE PSC Consulting
GUANGZHOU, China, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On September 14th, the 15 Shortlisted Cities of the 6th Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation (Guangzhou Award) were officially released: Antalya, Turkiye; Bogota, Colombia; Cape Town, South Africa; Gwangju, Korea; Halandri, Greece; Iztapalapa, Mexico; Jakarta, Indonesia; Kampala, Uganda; Kazan, Russia; Mannheim, Germany; Pimpri Chinchwad, India; Ramallah, Palestine; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Tehran, Iran; Xianning, China.

274 initiatives from 193 cities and regions in 54 countries submitted valid applications to the 6th cycle of the Guangzhou Award. Five countries submitted for the first time. A Technical Committee of international experts met in Guangzhou 11-14 September 2023. The selection was based on the criteria of innovation, effectiveness, context, and replicability and their relevance to the local implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the New Urban Agenda (NUA), The 11 TC members from 11 countries selected 45 Deserving initiatives, from which 15 shortlisted cities stood out.

ZHANG Yajie, Vice Chairman of Guangzhou Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Emilia Saiz, Secretary General of UCLG and Jordi Vaquer, Secretary General of the Metropolis addressed the conference and expressed their appreciation of Guangzhou's contribution to urban innovation and sustainable development globally.

Following the remarks, Azza Sirry, Chair of the Technical Committee announced the 15 Shortlisted cities of this year's Guangzhou Award. She introduced that this year's Guangzhou Award has received many submissions with high-quality initiatives, whether from the perspective of urban innovative development, or the attention to social inclusion and civic participation. Those initiatives all boasted relatively-advanced representativeness and reference value.

After the release, with the topic of High-quality Development and Urban Innovation, Kobie Brand, Deputy Secretary General of ICLEI, Chief Executive Officer and Regional Director of ICLEI Africa; Dyan Currie, Chief Planner of the Brisbane City Council and Lead of Brisbane 2032 Host City Office, together with other experts and scholars, discussed how to make cities healthier, safer and more livable places for high-quality life by promoting the modernization of the urban industrial system, governance capacity and culture type.

The Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation (Guangzhou Award) is co-sponsored by the City of Guangzhou, UCLG and Metropolis since 2012. With more than 1,300 initiatives worldwide, it has become a global platform for global knowledge creation and city-to-city learning on urban innovation.

SOURCE Guangzhou Award Secretariat
As the GCC's largest powerhouse contributing a share of 62% of total capital deployed by the Gulf region sovereign investors in 2022, Abu Dhabi's position stands strengthened by ADGM's strong year-on-year growth of 35% for AUM as of June 2023 .

ABU DHABI, UAE, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, has continued to attract major global and regional players to its International Financial Centre (IFC), Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). A strong performance during the first half of 2023 (H1 2023) by ADGM has demonstrated significant growth across various aspects, setting a positive tone for the rest of the year and continuing its contribution to positioning Abu Dhabi as a leading financial powerhouse and a 'falcon economy'.

Strengthening Abu Dhabi's Position as the GCC's Financial Powerhouse

Recent numbers showcase several investment firms and hedge funds setting up within ADGM; reaching a total of 102 asset managers operating in ADGM and managing 128 funds, contributing to Abu Dhabi's leading position in the asset management sector. ADGM's assets under management (AUM) highlighted a year-on-year record growth of 35% as of June 2023.

Another plug-in to this sector was the announcement of the enhancements to the regulatory framework of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of ADGM, enabling ADGM-based collective investment funds to invest in credit by originating and participating in credit facilities. Alternative financing for private enterprises, especially within the Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) sector, was one of the major focusses of introducing the Private Credit Fund framework.

The attractiveness of ADGM as a holistic financial hub, which stands as the sole jurisdiction in the region to adopt the direct application of English common law, has resulted in prominent global firms establishing themselves in ADGM in 2023, such as Brevan Howard, Ardian, Goldman Sachs, Tikehau Capital, Blackstone, SBI Capital, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), Apollo, Fifth Wall, Fidera and Vibrant Capital. The IFC also witnessed a major addition in the first half of 2023, welcoming legendary investor Ray Dalio, who has selected Abu Dhabi as its next strategic hub to expand his family office's global footprint.

ADGM is also considered a preferred destination for heavy-weight local and regional firms such as ADQ, Chimera, G42, Gulf Capital, OneIM and Investcorp.

Other renowned international and regional players in the financial space are soon to be fully operational within ADGM, as a total of 46 firms have already been granted In-Principle Approval (IPA) during the first half of 2023. This is a striking increase of 119% compared to the same period last year.

Commenting on their expansion to ADGM, Alan Howard, Founder, of Brevan Howard, said: "Abu Dhabi and ADGM offer a transparent and business-friendly environment to the banking, fintech, and investment management industries. It is an important global hub with tremendous potential. We are delighted to partner with the government as it builds and develops for the future." Brevan Howard manages over USD 30 billion on behalf of institutional clients globally.

Rajeev Misra, CEO of OneIM, commented, "Abu Dhabi has become an international hub for investors, employers and employees alike. This Financial Services Permission (FSP) will enable us to pursue many of the exciting opportunities we see in this region and to propel the firm into the next stage of its journey."

Pioneering Sustainable Finance and Welcoming Global Sustainability Titans

H1 2023 witnessed ADGM's FSRA implementing its sustainable finance regulatory framework, comprising the region's most comprehensive ESG disclosure requirements and a regulatory framework for funds, discretionary managed portfolios, bonds and sukuks designed to accelerate the transition of the UAE to net zero greenhouse gas emissions. The framework complements ADGM's existing regulation of carbon offsets, facilitating the establishment of the world's first regulated carbon offsets exchange in ADGM, AirCarbon Exchange (ACX).

In March, ADGM FSRA together with other members of the UAE Sustainable Finance Working Group (SFWG), issued a draft "Principles for the Effective Management of Climate-Related Financial Risks" ("the draft Principles") for consultation and will be published in the second half of 2023.

Earlier this year, the USD 100 billion multilateral development bank, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) signed an agreement to establish its first Interim Operational Hub at ADGM, which will become its first overseas office. The AIIB's mission is to finance infrastructure with sustainability at its core.

ADGM's Efficiency Continues to Elevate Despite Being One of The World's Largest Financial District

A significant milestone in ADGM's growth journey this year was marked by the announcement of the tenfold expansion of its geographic area, bringing Al Reem Island under its jurisdiction, in addition to the existing Al Maryah Island. It has positioned ADGM as one of the largest financial districts in the world, totalling 14.38 million sqm.

The expansion was the next natural step for ADGM following the growth trajectory it has experienced in recent times with global, regional and local companies increasingly choosing Abu Dhabi as the destination to expand and grow their businesses. This is also reflected in H1 2023 numbers with the operational entities soaring to a 36% year-on-year increase as of June 2023 to reach a total of 1,590 entities. Furthermore, during the same period, ADGM Square's workforce displayed a rise of 28% bringing a total of 12,080 talented individuals.

From June 2022 to June 2023, the efficiency and speed of issuing commercial licences witnessed a notable 50% improvement. There has also been a remarkable 69% increase in efficiency and speed specifically for issuing commercial licences for SPVs.

Additional significant achievements for H1 2023

The Registration Authority of ADGM published a consultation paper on the legislative framework for Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) Foundations.

ADGM launched its inaugural Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing (ML/TF) Risk Assessment of ADGM Legal Persons and Arrangements Report (LPA Report) in May 2023 .

. Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Forum (ADSFF) concluded its fifth edition with a focus on 'Charting the path to COP28 ,' as the nation prepares to host the global event later this year.

,' as the nation prepares to host the global event later this year. The second edition of RESOLVE was launched as Abu Dhabi's dispute resolution forum by ADGM Courts and ADGM Arbitration Centre that witnessed a physical attendance of more than 2,400, focused on Sustainability, Web3 and AI, Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) and sanctions, as well as the evolving infrastructure of the UAE.

dispute resolution forum by ADGM Courts and ADGM Arbitration Centre that witnessed a physical attendance of more than 2,400, focused on Sustainability, Web3 and AI, Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) and sanctions, as well as the evolving infrastructure of the UAE. ADGM announced the return of Abu Dhabi Finance Week which will be held from 27th November to 30th November 2023 .

Commenting on these positive developments, H.E. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Member of Abu Dhabi's Executive Council & Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and ADGM said, "What we are witnessing in Abu Dhabi today, with some of the major global players choosing the capital city to base their business operations is nothing short of a major transition that is supporting the growth and diversification of the 'Falcon Economy'. We are excited to see the growth numbers of ADGM at the end of the first half of 2023 which reinforces our position as the fastest-growing international financial centre in the region. Our efforts underline Abu Dhabi's economic vision and ADGM's overall strategy to make the financial sector a strong contributor to Abu Dhabi's GDP and knowledge-based economy. Our outlook remains strong for 2023, as we continue working with key government stakeholders on the seamless expansion of ADGM's jurisdiction and catering to the growing demand of businesses to be based in Abu Dhabi."

The overall positive outlook for 2023 that ADGM has successfully shown since the start of the year reflects its Growth Strategy 2023-2027 and its alignment with Abu Dhabi's overall goals to drive economic diversification through the growing financial sector.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211082/4274742/ADGM_Logo.jpg

SOURCE ADGM
SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ACR Poker today announced that it's sending at least four players to the famed French Riviera to compete against the world's best for mind-blowing prize pools.

The High Stakes Adventure: Monte Carlo is guaranteeing four total packages via two Main Satellites on Sunday, September 17th and 24th. Each package includes $110,000 in tournament buy-ins / entry fees, plus business class airfare and luxury accommodations. Players will then head to Monte Carlo to compete from October 24th to November 4th.

We're guaranteeing 4 packages valued at $110,000 each via two satellites High Stakes Adventures

"We've had High Stakes Adventures this year to Vietnam, Cyprus and London, but this might be the best one yet," stated ACR Pro Chris Moneymaker. "Monte Carlo has long been a symbol of opulence, as well as a world-famous gambling destination, and our players will experience it all."

Winners get to choose how to use their $110,000 in buy-ins. They can spread it around or go for the ultimate glory in one big shot. Players will also be part of an entourage with separate ACR Pro and Stormer package winners, adding to the VIP experience even more.

To enter the online satellites, players can pay the $2,650 direct buy-in, or qualify for a fraction of the cost through the $290 Super Satellites.

For more on the High Stakes Adventure: Monte Carlo, visit the promo page at ACRPoker.eu.

For further information, please contact: [email protected]

About ACR Poker

Formerly known as Americas Cardroom, ACR Poker joined the Winning Poker Network in 2011. The Winning Poker Network has been dealing cards since 2001 and continues to be one of the most trusted names in the industry. Rated first place for payment processing and cash out reliability repeatedly over the last few years, ACR Poker offers outstanding customer service and a friendly environment for all poker players around the world.

Contact:

Melanie Moser

1-877-314-4195

[email protected]

SOURCE ACR Poker
LAGUNA HILLS, Calif., Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Adagio Medical, Inc., a leading innovator in catheter ablation technologies for atrial fibrillation (AF) and ventricular tachycardia (VT), announced the first ultra-low temperature cryoablation (ULTC) procedure performed using the Adagio vCLAS catheter system in the United States as part of the FULCRUM-VT (Feasibility of Ultra-Low Temperature Cryoablation for Recurring Monomorphic Ventricular Tachycardia) clinical trial, NCT # NCT05675865. The procedure was performed at Banner - University Medical Center in Phoenix, AZ by Dr. Roderick Tung, MD. Dr. Tung serves as Division Chief of Cardiology and Director of Cardiovascular Clinical Research for the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Arizona College of Medicine  Phoenix and Banner  University Medical Center Phoenix.

"The ablations of ventricular tachycardias have been historically performed using RF catheters and suffer from insufficient lesion depth to deliver a full thickness treatment to a three-dimensional problem," said Dr. Tung. "The ability of ULTC to create lesions deeper than the average thickness of ventricular myocardium exclusively from endocardial surface in pre-clinical models is a major potential advantage. Performing early feasibility studies in humans is critical to testing safety and clinical efficacy and we are proud that University of Arizona College of Medicine has emerged as an early feasibility study site in collaboration with Adagio."

FULCRUM-VT is set to enroll 20 patients across four investigational sites, including Banner - University Medical Center in Phoenix and three other world-renowned VT ablation programs: Vanderbilt University Hospital in Nashville, TN with Dr. William Stevenson, Mount Sinai Hospital, NY, with Dr. Vivek Reddy and University of California in San Francisco with Dr. Edward Gerstenfeld. The enrollment criteria of the trial include both ischemic and non-ischemic heart disease, implanted cardioverter defibrillator, and an indication for ventricular ablation due to recurrent symptomatic monomorphic VTs. Furthermore, the trial will accept the patients for both de-novo and a first repeat ablation, thus encompassing the clinical pathway for vast majority of patients undergoing ventricular ablations. The 64-patient CRYOCURE-VT trial conducted in Europe and Canada to evaluate safety and performance of vCLAS catheter has completed enrollment, and data will be used to support the CE-Mark approval of the device.

"The initiation of the FULCRUM-VT study is the first step towards bringing Adagio's ULTC platform technology to VT ablations market in the US," said Olav Bergheim, President and CEO of Adagio Medical. "The initial published data on procedural characteristics, acute effectiveness, and safety of ULTC ablations have been encouraging and, we believe, the combination of CRYOCURE-VT and FULCRUM-VT will result in the robust, multi-center, global dataset, essential for the assessment of this groundbreaking technology. The VT market is largely underserved by industry. Adagio's dedicated VT catheter is a testimony to our commitment to the advancement of clinical EP and our belief in the future growth of the market based on improved procedure effectiveness and long-term outcomes. The bi-directionally deflectable catheter is compatible with the same ULTC energy source which is currently under evaluation as a part of pivotal FDA IDE trial for the treatment of persistent AF (NCT # 04061603). We believe that if and once approved by regulatory authorities, vCLAS will be a must-have technology at every advanced EP ablation program."

About Banner  University Medical Center Phoenix

Banner  University Medical Center Phoenix is a large teaching hospital that has provided medical care to Arizona and the Southwest since 1911. It is part of Banner  University Medicine, a premier academic medical network. The institution, which has trained thousands of doctors over decades as a teaching hospital, is the academic medical center for The University of Arizona College of Medicine  Phoenix. The hospital, recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the nation's best hospitals, specializes in heart care, cancer care, high-risk obstetrics, neurosciences, organ transplants, medical toxicology and emergency care, including a Level I trauma center. Banner  University Medical Center Phoenix is part of Banner Health, a nonprofit health care system with 33 hospitals in six states. For more information, visit bannerhealth.com/universityphoenix.

About Adagio Medical

Adagio Medical, Inc. (www.adagiomedical.com) is a privately held company located in Laguna Hills, California developing innovative cryoablation technologies that create contiguous, transmural lesions to treat cardiac arrhythmias, including paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and ventricular tachycardia. Adagio Medical, Inc. is a Fjord Ventures portfolio company.

Follow Adagio Medical on:

Related Links

https://adagiomedical.com

SOURCE Adagio Medical, Inc.
MONTREAL, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Urbanoid, a startup specializing in Location Intelligence, has collaborated with Concordia University's Applied AI Institute to develop an innovative technology enabling marketers to target ads without relying on cookies. The AI-based solution (code name CTX) responds to a prevailing concern within the advertising industry: the withdrawal and ban of third-party cookies by tech giants like Google and Apple. CTX's technology will enable advertisers to bid intelligently for ad spaces without relying on users' browsing history.

Hafsa Ennajari & Akinlolu Ojo from Concordia Universitys Applied AI Institute along with Pascal Maeder, Urbanoids CEO. (photo J.Wenk) (CNW Group/Urbanoid)

Urbanoid founder Pascal Maeder expressed his excitement over this achievement: "The ban on cookies in 2024 has provided us with an unprecedented opportunity to develop an innovative and highly accurate solution that will allow the advertising industry to replace cookies through the use of Location Intelligence, while respecting user data, which is a key consideration for us. We are delighted to have worked closely with Concordia University's Applied AI Institute to develop the CTX technology."

CTX's AI-trained model analyses dozens of contextual variables surrounding users like weather, transit schedules, public events, offers and points-of-sale in real-time, providing advertisers with a real-life contextual Adscore. The CTX service will be available for all digital advertising channels including Web, Mobile and Digital Out-of-Home. A beta version of CTX is currently being tested by select platforms. A commercial version will become available to the advertising industry in 2024.

The CTX pending patent (System and Method for Contextualized Selection of Objects in Mixed Reality) is co-invented by Hafsa Ennajari and Akinlolu Ojo, both PhD students specialising in Machine Learning and attached to Concordia's Applied AI Institute, as well as by Leonid Reinoso, Urbanoid's CTO.

About Urbanoid

Urbanoid is a Location Intelligence company developing solutions for communication, gaming and advertising platforms. Since 2020, the Montreal based company has developed several projects in collaboration with Concordia University including the AI-based CTX contextual ad targeting solution, a space-time messaging application and a location based chatbot.

SOURCE Urbanoid
Top policymakers and business leaders from Africa and the Republic of Korea gathered in Paris on Tuesday to discuss regional integration, industrial productivity and ways to further economic growth and cooperation.

and the Republic of Korea gathered in on Tuesday to discuss regional integration, industrial productivity and ways to further economic growth and cooperation. Over 150 leaders attended the Africa-Korea Business Summit. Speakers at the event included Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Albert Muchanga, African Union (AU) Commissioner for Trade and Industry, Jang Sung -min, Special Envoy and Senior Secretary to the President for Future Strategy of the ROK, Mze Abdou Mohamed Chanfiou, Finance Minister of the Union of Comoros , Sim Thsabalala, CEO of Standard Bank and Yu Jeong -joon, Vice Chairman of SK Group

SEOUL, South Korea, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Africa-Korea Business Summit was hosted at the Peninsula Hotel in Paris by the Korea-Africa Foundation and the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea. The theme for the business summit was 'Africa-Korean partnership in an era of great transformation.'

Panelists takes picture at the Africa-Korea Business Summit held at the feninsula hotel in paris, From the left Yu Jeong-joon Vice Chairman of SK Group, Ide John Chinyelu, Council Member of ICC World Cambers Federation, Sohn Jie-ae Ambassador for Cultural Cooperation of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Korea, Marie-Laure Akin-Olugbade Vice President of AfDB, Lyeo Woon-ki The President of the Korea-Foundation, Lyeo Woon-ki

The President of the Korea- Africa Foundation, Lyeo Woon-ki stated 'This summit was organized to lay the foundation for '2024 Korea-Africa Summit' scheduled for next year and to provide an opportunity for Korean companies to explore market entry strategies into Africa and enhance their understanding of cooperation measures, especially given the full implementation phase of the AfCFTA that commenced in 2021." The Korean government plans to host the Korea-Africa Summit in 2024 in Korea.

The AfCFTA is the most extensive free trade zone both in terms of geographical coverage and the number of participating countries since the inception of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Fifty-four of the 55 African Union countries (excluding Eritrea) are members of the organization, representing 1.3 billion people and the economic bloc boasts a collective GDP of $3.4 trillion.

The summit featured presentations and in-depth discussions on topics including economic integration, trade, industrialization and productivity gaps, and opportunities for collaboration with Korean businesses and investors across a range of industries including agriculture, mining, energy, renewables, manufacturing and digitalization.

The sessions were attended by over 150 participants, including Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA; Albert Muchanga, Commissioner for Trade and Industry of the African Union Commission; Jang Sung-min, Special Envoy and Senior Secretary to the President for Future Strategy of the ROK; Sim Tshabalala, joint Chief Executive of the Standard Bank Group; Ban Ki-moon, former UN Secretary-General; Yu Jeong-joon, Vice Chairman and Head of U.S. Government & Corporate Affairs for SK Group; and Seo Sang-hyun, Senior Researcher at POSCO.

Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, in a video message delivered to commemorate the event, said, 'The Africa-Korea Business Summit is an excellent initiative', adding that 'Africa stands at a critical juncture and the continent is entering a new phase of high-powered economic integration.'

Mr. Ban elaborated by saying, "Africa is rapidly emerging as the world's largest growth market," and he went on to emphasize, "Without Africa, we cannot supply the impetus for green revolution or address pressing global issues such as the climate crisis."

Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA, delivered remarks during the session on the day, stating ''Challenges in Africa also act as opportunity for investors. 'Hyundai' could build manufacturing bases in Africa and 'Samsung' could expand theirs, not just in South Africa and Egypt as they do now."

Choi Kyong-lim, former Korean representative for WTO CTG stated "Geographically Korea is a very small country, however, our trade volume is the ultimate opposite with being ranked one of the biggest economy in the world. But the trade volume between Africa and Korea is less than 2 percent." and encouraged the participants "to put efforts for enhancing the economic partnership between Africa and Korea."

Also, Mr. Choi mentioned 2024 Korea-Africa Summit and urged Africa to support 2030 Busan EXPO which would be a significant business opportunity to Africa.

Jang Sung-min, Special Envoy and Senior Secretary to the President for Future Strategy of the ROK who represented President Yoon Suk-yeol at the event said that ''Africa is being elevated as the biggest and the most important growth hub in the global arena. Major efforts for the regional integration with AfCFTA will be the gateway to Africa's boundless potential. Prosperous Africa accords with not only international community but also with Korea, creating opportunities of new market to Korean private sectors upon the mutually beneficial genuine partnership"

Albert Muchanga, AU Commissioner for Trade and Industry who participated in a panel on industry and the great productivity gap in Africa stated that "Increasing productivity growth is imperative to achieving inclusive growth and sustainable development across Africa." and "As Korea's development experience, overcoming the productivity gap by investing in human capital development and utilization is a lesson to Africa and with the partnership between Korea and Africa, the continent will become a key engine of global economic expansion."

Vice President Yu for International Cooperation at SK Group, the second-largest conglomerate in Korea, said, 'I am honored to participate in this business summit, which will explore new opportunities for cooperation between the Korean private sector and African countries.' He further stated, 'Given the continent's unlimited business potential, it is crucial to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance our understanding of African nations.'

'This summit holds even greater significance as it elevates itself beyond a business forum', said Lyeo Woon-Ki, President of Korea-Africa Foundation, and he expressed his hope that it would serve as a meaningful opportunity for shaping new cooperation initiatives between Korea and Africa.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210076/photo_2023_09_13_22_59_41.jpg

SOURCE SK Group
The multidisciplinary medical center Leleka plans to renew the international JCI (Joint Commission International) certificate, confirming quality standards in healthcare, said the operating director of the medical center Vadym Zukin.

In December 2022, the Leleka multidisciplinary medical center provided confirmation of its activities to the JCI accreditation union and the validity of the certificate was extended by one year. In December 2023, we plan to undergo a full online audit by international auditors, he told the agency on the eve of World Patient Safety Day, which is celebrated on September 17.

According to Zukin, the big advantage of JCI is that its implementation "requires constant living according to certain standards, so the actual preparation for inspections does not take much time, because we fulfill all the requirements every day.

Commenting on the possibility of complying with JCI standards during martial law, Zukin emphasized that JCI standards, when implemented, are deeply rooted in the corporate culture of the hospital, and doctors, even during war, cannot imagine their activities in any other way than in compliance with JCI standards.

When in 2022, for objective reasons, the obstetric department of the Leleka medical center worked for several months on the basis of one of the state maternity hospitals, our management did not set out to conduct activities there according to JCI standards. However, thanks to the fact that all the employees of our team can no longer operate, we have done everything possible to comply with JCI standards even during the period of temporary relocation, he said.

At the same time, Zukin does not expect Ukrainian clinics to intensify the receipt of international certificates in the near future. At the same time, in his opinion, a number of large private Ukrainian clinics are ready to implement such standards.

You shouldnt expect such a number of hospitals with JCI accreditation, as, for example, in Israel or the UAE, in Ukraine in the near future. However, there are indeed several large private hospitals that, I am convinced, are capable of raising their level to JCI standards and receiving accreditation. Obviously, if it werent for a full-scale war, there would be more medical centers accredited by this prestigious system, he said.

Zukin noted that due to Russian military aggression, most private medical institutions face significant financial problems, the solution of which requires a lot of time, resources and effort. However, all of them continue to strictly comply with the standards of quality and safety of hospital operations, without weakening control in this area.

It is obvious that now we are not talking about obtaining JCI accreditation by government institutions, at least in the near future. Among the reasons are economic factors, in particular the insufficient differentiation of national healthcare system tariffs for medical care, depending on the level of quality and safety, he said.

Zukin noted that the quality of medicine is not measured only by JCI standards; there are other, less popular, but serious quality control systems.

There is an example of other countries, for example the Czech Republic, where they took JCI standards as a basis when reforming their own national accreditation system, he said.

Certification by Joint Commission International (USA) is considered the most prestigious international accreditation system for medical institutions, the purpose of which is to stimulate the continuous improvement of the work of medical organizations in the world and their compliance with high internationally agreed upon requirements. The use of JCI standards assumes the highest level of medical organization.

JCI accreditation is considered the gold standard for quality in healthcare worldwide.

JCI currently accredits healthcare facilities in the United States and more than 85 other countries around the world. JCI standards are recognized as the highest level of medical quality and safety by the World Health Organization.

The multidisciplinary medical center Leleka passed JCI certification in December 2019 and became the first clinic in Ukraine to successfully pass JCI accreditation. The center received the Gold Seal of Approval from JCI.

JCI standards are the most difficult to implement compared to other quality systems existing in the world. At the same time, they are the most effective in the world. To obtain JCI accreditation, the Leleka team began preparations, which lasted almost two years, at the beginning of 2018. Such a short time for setting up all processes is considered almost a record, as such preparation usually lasts 3-5 years.

During the accreditation process of a medical institution, a comprehensive detailed check is carried out - from doctors diplomas and drug labeling to fire safety measures. Particular attention is paid to the rights of the patient and their implementation. One of the main factors is that JCI accreditation is not a static process, but a program of continuous improvement and development.
Committed to improving quality of life for dialysis patients, Premier Dialysis deploys Alio's Platform to deliver clinical-grade insights across its patient population

BROOMFIELD, Colo., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Alio, Inc. announces official launch with commercial customer, Premier Dialysis. The two organizations are mutually aligned on helping dialysis patients improve their quality of life through better management of their condition and by empowering them with the tools necessary to do so. Both organizations also believe dialysis patients have been forced to live with the status quo for far too long and lacked access to new innovative approaches to managing their condition.

Premier Dialysis is a dialysis solution company focused on improving quality of life through their QPLD protocol which is a dextrose-free, cycler-free dialysis methodology. The organization's approach to QLPD results in fewer insulin treatments, better protection of the peritoneal membrane, less time spent administering treatment, and lower hospitalization rates. Premier Dialysis' trademarked approach helps patients avoid more aggressive forms of dialysis treatment and helps maintain residual kidney function which slows the progression of kidney disease.

While Premier Dialysis primarily serves patients receiving peritoneal dialysis, they do also serve a growing number of hemodialysis patients. As an Alio customer, Premier Dialysis will benefit from using Alio's Portal for all of its patients while deploying Alio's SmartPatch for its burgeoning hemodialysis patient population. Premier Dialysis has operations across Michigan and Florida while continuing to expand into new geographies.

"As a nurse, I saw first hand the impact of the standard, now archaic, approaches to handling dialysis treatments at home. Patients felt powerless in managing their own condition, much less properly equipped to better understand their own health," said Joshua Dipzinski, co-founder and CEO of Premier Dialysis. "Our approach to administering dialysis treatment coupled with Alio's groundbreaking technology puts my team in a position to better optimize individualized patient treatments so they spend less time worried about key vitals and metrics, and more time living their lives."

Alio is a FDA cleared, non-invasive, and multi-metric remote patient monitoring platform consisting of the wearable SmartPatch, hub, and clinician-facing portal. While patients go about their daily lives, Alio's technology captures clinical-grade data and wirelessly transmits actionable insights, predictive analytics, and notifications to clinical care teams. The SmartPatch uses proprietary technology to capture novel metrics including potassium, hematocrit, hemoglobin, auscultation, and skin temperature.

"Josh and the team at Premier are very much aligned with our vision of the future of kidney disease management," said David Kuraguntla, CEO and co-founder of Alio. "Both of our companies keep the patient at the center of everything we do with an unrelenting focus on improving health outcomes, avoiding hospitalizations and ultimately improving quality of life. With our second FDA clearance secured, we are thrilled to be able to deploy our technology across a number of geographies while scaling operations and getting our technology into the hands of those who need it most."

About Alio

Alio, Inc. is a medical technology company bringing peace of mind to people with chronic conditions through non-invasive, wireless remote patient monitoring. Currently, Alio uses its SmartPatch technology to monitor individuals with end stage kidney disease (ESKD) undergoing dialysis. Alio's platform uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze data and create actionable insights. These insights enable targeted interventions with the potential for improved health outcomes and reduced hospitalizations. Alio has built a team of seasoned leaders with diverse backgrounds spanning across industries and segments such as medical devices, wearable technology, government relations, commercialization, and reimbursement.

Visit our website for more information: https://alio.ai .

About Premier Dialysis

Premier Dialysis was founded in 2020 on the premise that patients are getting more dialysis than they need to live a happy healthy life. QLPD (peritoneal dialysis) and QLHD (home hemodialysis) are approaches to dialysis treatment that focus on maintaining patients' residual function through less invasive dialysis, increased fluid intake and improved medication management. The company has a goal of changing mindsets and transforming the dialysis industry by thinking beyond the status quo and focusing on patients' quality of life above all else.

For more information visit: https://premier-dialysis.com/

SOURCE Alio, Inc.
NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO, OR TO ANY PERSON RESIDENT AND/OR LOCATED IN, ANY JURISDICTION WHERE SUCH RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IS UNLAWFUL (SEE "OFFER AND DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTIONS" BELOW).

THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS FOR INFORMATION ONLY AND IS NOT AN OFFER TO PURCHASE OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO SELL ANY SECURITIES.

COPENHAGEN, Denmark, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A.P. Mller - Mrsk A/S ("Maersk", the "Offeror") is today announcing, in respect of its previously announced tender offer to purchase for cash (the "Offer"), any and all of its outstanding 3.875% Notes due 2025 (the "Notes"), set out in the table below, the Reference Yield and the Purchase Price for each Note validly tendered and accepted for purchase in respect of the Offer.

The Offer is being made on the terms and subject to the conditions set out in the offer to purchase dated September 7, 2023 and the related Notice of Guaranteed Delivery (the "Offer to Purchase"). Capitalized terms with respect to the Offer not otherwise defined in this announcement have the same meaning as in the Offer to Purchase.

Pricing for the Offer:

The Reference Yield in respect of the Notes listed below was determined at 10:00 a.m., New York City time, today. The Purchase Price for the Notes listed below is based on the Reference Yield plus the Fixed Spread as set forth in the table below:

Title of Security Issuer ISIN/CUSIP Principal Amount

Outstanding Fixed Spread

(bps) Reference Security Reference

Yield Purchase

Price(1) 3.875% Notes due

2025 A.P. Mller - Mrsk

A/S Rule 144A: US00203QAD97 / 00203Q AD9 Reg S: USK0479SAE83 / K0479S AE8 $500,000,000 30 5.00% U.S.

Treasury Security

due August 31,

2025 5.001 % $972.91





(1) The Purchase Price for each $1,000 principal amount of Notes validly tendered and not validly withdrawn at or prior to the Expiration Deadline and accepted for purchase by the Offeror.

The Offer will expire at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on September 14, 2023, unless extended (such date and time, as the same may be extended, the "Expiration Deadline") or earlier terminated. Holders must validly tender and not validly withdraw their Notes at or prior to the Expiration Deadline in order to be to receive the Purchase Price. Notes validly tendered may be withdrawn at any time prior to the Withdrawal Deadline, but not thereafter.

In addition to the Purchase Price, holders of the Notes accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer will also receive, on the Settlement Date or the Guaranteed Delivery Settlement Date, as applicable, an amount equal to accrued and unpaid interest on such Notes from the last interest payment date up to, but not including, the Settlement Date ("Accrued Interest"). Accrued Interest for each $1,000 principal amount of Notes validly tendered and accepted for purchase will be rounded to the nearest $0.01 with $0.005 being rounded upwards. For the avoidance of doubt, interest will cease to accrue on the Settlement Date for all Notes accepted in the Offer, including those tendered by the guaranteed delivery procedures set forth in the Offer to Purchase.

Unless the Offer is extended, reopened or earlier terminated, the Settlement Date in respect of Offer is expected to be at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on September 18, 2023, the second Business Day following the Expiration Deadline, and the Guaranteed Delivery Settlement Date in respect of the Offer is expected to be on September 19, 2023, the third Business Day following the Expiration Deadline, unless otherwise extended.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Copies of the Offer to Purchase are available at the following web address: https://sites.dfkingltd.com/Maersk

Requests for assistance or additional copies of an Offer to Purchase may be directed to the Tender Agent and any questions regarding the terms of the Offer may be directed to the relevant Dealer Managers listed below:

Tender Agent

D.F. King & Co., Inc. Email: [email protected]

Telephone (Toll free): +1 (866) 796-1271

Telephone (Banks & Brokers Call): +1 (212) 269-5550



Investor Relations

Stefan Gruber, Head of Investor Relations Email: [email protected]

Telephone: +45 3363 3484



Dealer Managers

Citigroup Global Markets Limited Telephone (Europe): +44 20 798 68969

Telephone (U.S. Toll Free): +1 (800) 558 3745

Telephone (U.S.): +1 (212)723 6106

Email: [email protected]

Attn: Liability Management Group



MUFG Securities Americas Inc. Telephone (Europe):+442076285555 / +33170914255

Telephone (U.S. Toll Free): +1 (877) 744-4532

Telephone (U.S.): +1 (212) 405-7481

Email: [email protected]

Attn: Liability Management

DISCLAIMER

This announcement and Offer to Purchase (including the documents incorporated by reference therein) contain important information which should be read carefully before any decision is made with respect to the Offer. If you are in any doubt as to the contents of this announcement or the Offer to Purchase or the action you should take, you are recommended to seek your own financial and legal advice, including as to any tax consequences, immediately from your stockbroker, bank manager, solicitor, accountant or other independent financial or legal adviser. Any individual or company whose Notes are held on its behalf by a broker, dealer, bank, custodian, trust company or other nominee or intermediary must contact such entity if it wishes to participate in the Offer. None of the Offeror, the Dealer Managers, the Tender Agent, the fiscal agent or the trustee (as applicable) with respect to the Notes (or any of their respective directors, employees or affiliates) make any recommendation as to whether holders should tender Notes pursuant to the Offer.

OFFER AND DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTIONS

The communication of this announcement, the Offer to Purchase and any other documents or materials relating to the Offer do not constitute an offer or an invitation to participate in the Offer in any jurisdiction in or from which, or to any person to whom, it is unlawful to make the Offer or invitation under applicable laws. The distribution or communication of the Offer to Purchase in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons into whose possession the Offer to Purchase comes are required by each of the Offeror, the Dealer Manager and the Tender Agent to inform themselves about, and to observe, any such restrictions.

United Kingdom

The communication of this announcement, the Offer to Purchase and any other documents or materials relating to the Offer are not being made, and such documents and/or materials have not been approved, by an authorized person for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (the "FSMA"). Accordingly, this announcement, the Offer to Purchase and such other documents and/or materials are not being distributed to, and must not be passed on to, the general public in the United Kingdom. The communication of the Offer to Purchase and such other documents and/or materials are exempt from the restriction on financial promotions under section 21 of the FSMA on the basis that they are only being distributed to and are only directed at persons to whom they can lawfully be circulated outside the United Kingdom or to: (i) persons in the United Kingdom having professional experience in matters relating to investments falling within the definition of investment professionals (as defined in Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (as amended, the "Order")); (ii) persons falling within Article 43 of the Order; or (iii) any other persons to whom the Offer to Purchase and such other documents and/or materials may otherwise lawfully be communicated under the Order (all such persons together being referred to as "relevant persons"). This announcement, the Offer to Purchase and such documents and/or materials are directed only at relevant persons and must not be acted on or relied on by persons who are not relevant persons. Any investment or investment activity to which this announcement and the Offer to Purchase relate is available only to relevant persons and will be engaged in only with relevant persons.

The communication of this announcement, the Offer to Purchase and any other documents or materials relating to the Offer do not constitute an offer of securities to the public for the purposes of s of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (as amended) as it forms part of United Kingdom domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (EUWA) (the "UK Prospectus Regulation") and accordingly the requirement to produce a prospectus under the UK Prospectus Regulation does not apply to the Offer.

European Economic Area (EEA)

In any European Economic Area ("EEA") Member State (a "Relevant State"), the Offer is only addressed to and is only directed at qualified investors in that Relevant State within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation.

Each person in a Relevant State who receives any communication with respect to the Offer contemplated in the Offer to Purchase will be deemed to have represented, warranted and agreed to and with the Dealer Managers and the Offeror that it is a qualified investor within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation.

Each intermediary must comply with the applicable laws and regulations concerning information duties vis-a-vis its clients in connection with the Notes or the Offer.

Belgium

None of this announcement, the Offer to Purchase and any other documents or materials relating to the Offer have been submitted to or will be submitted for approval or recognition to the Financial Services and Markets Authority (Autorite des services et marches financiers / Autoriteit voor financiele diensten en markten) and, accordingly, the Offer may not be made in Belgium by way of a public offering, as defined in Articles 3 and 6 of the Belgian Law of April 1, 2007 on public takeover bids as amended or replaced from time to time. Accordingly, the Offer may not be advertised and the Offer will not be extended, and none of this announcement, the Offer to Purchase or any other documents or materials relating to the Offer (including any memorandum, information circular, brochure or any similar documents) have been or shall be distributed or made available, directly or indirectly, to any person in Belgium other than "qualified investors" in the sense of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation, acting on their own account. This announcement and the Offer to Purchase have been issued only for the personal use of the above qualified investors and exclusively for the purpose of the Offer. Accordingly, the information contained in this announcement and in the Offer to Purchase may not be used for any other purpose or disclosed to any other person in Belgium.

France

This announcement, the Offer to Purchase and any other documents or offering materials relating to the Offer may not be distributed in the Republic of France except to qualified investors (investisseurs qualifies) as defined in Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation. This announcement and the Offer to Purchase have not been and will not be submitted for clearance to the Autorite des marches financiers.

Italy

None of this announcement, the Offer, the Offer to Purchase or any other documents or materials relating to the Offer has been or will be submitted to the clearance procedure of the Commissione Nazionale per le Societa e la Borsa ("CONSOB"), pursuant to applicable Italian laws and regulations.

The Offer is being carried out in the Republic of Italy ("Italy") as an exempted offer pursuant to article 101-bis, paragraph 3-bis of the Legislative Decree No. 58 of February 24, 1998, as amended (the "Financial Services Act") and article 35-bis, paragraph 4 of CONSOB Regulation No. 11971 of May 14, 1999, as amended (the "CONSOB Regulation"). The Offer is also being carried out in compliance with article 35-bis, paragraph 7 of the CONSOB Regulation.

Holders or beneficial owners of the Notes located in Italy can tender the Notes through authorized persons (such as investment firms, banks or financial intermediaries permitted to conduct such activities in Italy in accordance with the Financial Services Act, CONSOB Regulation No. 20307 of February 15, 2018, as amended from time to time, and Legislative Decree No. 385 of September 1, 1993, as amended) and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations or with requirements imposed by CONSOB or any other Italian authority.

Each intermediary must comply with the applicable laws and regulations concerning information duties vis-a-vis its clients in connection with the Notes and the Offer.

General

The Offer does not constitute an offer to buy or the solicitation of an offer to sell Notes in any circumstances in which such offer or solicitation is unlawful. In those jurisdictions where the securities or other laws require the Offer to be made by a licensed broker or dealer and the Dealer Manager or, where the context so requires, any of its affiliates, is such a licensed broker or dealer in that jurisdiction, the Offer shall be deemed to be made on behalf of the Offeror by such Dealer Manager or affiliate (as the case may be) in such jurisdiction.

Each Holder participating in the Offer will be deemed to give certain representations in respect of the jurisdictions referred to above and generally as set out in this Offer to Purchase. Any tender of Notes pursuant to this Offer to Purchase from a holder that is unable to make these representations will be rejected. Each of the Offeror, the Dealer Managers and Tender Agent reserves the right, in its absolute discretion (and without prejudice to the relevant holder's responsibility for the representations made by it), to investigate in relation to any tender of Notes, whether any such representation given by a holder is correct and, if such investigation is undertaken and as a result the Offeror determines (for any reason) that such representation is not correct, such offer to sell will be rejected.

The Offeror and its affiliates expressly reserve the right at any time or from time to time following completion or termination of the Offer, to purchase or exchange or offer to purchase or exchange Notes or to issue an invitation to submit offers to sell Notes (including, without limitation, those tendered pursuant to the Offer but not accepted for purchase) through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions, tender offers, exchange offers or otherwise, in each case on terms that may be more or less favorable than those contemplated by the Offer. In addition, the Offeror also reserves the right to issue new debt securities from time to time, including during the term of the Offer.

The Offeror and their respective affiliates expressly reserve the right at any time or from time to time following completion or termination of the Offer made by it, to purchase or exchange or offer to purchase or exchange Notes or to issue an invitation to submit offers to sell Notes (including, without limitation, those tendered pursuant to the Offer but not accepted for purchase by it) through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions, tender offers, exchange offers or otherwise, in each case on terms that may be more or less favorable than those contemplated by the Offer. In addition, the Offeror also reserves the right to issue new debt securities from time to time, including during the term of the Offer made by it.

Legal Entity Identifiers



A.P. MLLER  MRSK A/S

549300D2K6PKKKXVNN73

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

From time to time, the Offeror may make statements, both written and oral, regarding our assumptions, projections, expectations, intentions or beliefs about future events. These statements constitute "forward-looking statements". The Offeror cautions that these statements may and often do vary materially from actual results. Accordingly, the Offeror cannot assure you that actual results will not differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. You should read the sections entitled "Risk Factors" in the Offer to Purchase, in the Group's annual report in respect of the financial year ended December 31, 2022 (the "Annual Report") and H1 2023 Interim Report of the Offeror, which are incorporated by reference therein and "Forward-Looking Statements" in the Annual Report and H1 2023 Interim Report of the Offeror, which are incorporated by reference in the Offer to Purchase.

Any forward-looking statements made herein or in the documents incorporated by reference herein speak only as of the date they are made. Except as required by the U.K. Financial Conduct Authority (the "FCA") or the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority (the "DFSA"), as applicable, any applicable stock exchange or any applicable law, the Offeror expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained in the Offer to Purchase or the documents incorporated by reference herein to reflect any changes in expectations with regard thereto or any new information or any changes in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. The reader should, however, consult any additional disclosures that A.P. Mller - Mrsk A/S has made or may make in documents that A.P. Mller - Mrsk A/S has filed or may file with the DFSA.

SOURCE A.P. Mller - Mrsk A/S
A holistic approach guiding organizations through the complexities of security risk and compliance.

CANTON, Mass., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Aqueduct Technologies, New England's leading IT solutions provider, is simplifying the complexities of cyber resilience and regulatory compliance.

IT professionals are invited to learn more at Aqueduct's complimentary Cybersecurity Summit on October 5th in Canton, MA.

Members of Aqueduct's Technology Solutions Group share insights about the security program, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, incident response, and more.

As cybersecurity threats continue to grow in sophistication, businesses are under mounting pressure to secure their data, critical systems, and intellectual property. Simultaneously, they are being pushed to develop and maintain robust internal programs and policies to comply with the ever-expanding web of regulatory and compliance requirements, such as the SEC's newly adopted rules on Cybersecurity risk management, the National Cybersecurity Awareness Act, and Massachusetts regulation 201 CMR 17.00.

Aqueduct has responded with a comprehensive security program that not only addresses immediate security concerns but also establishes a proactive approach to maintain resilience.

Shane O'Brien, CTO of Aqueduct, stated, "Our security program reflects our commitment to empowering customers with the knowledge, tools, and strategies they need to safeguard their organizations and remain compliant."

Key features of Aqueduct's Security Program:

Bespoke Cybersecurity Playbook: Aligned to NIST framework, ensuring that IT professionals have a clear roadmap to follow. Governance Risk and Compliance Expertise: Consulting services regarding clients' Written Information Security Programs (WISPs), Risk Management, Policy Creation/Control Mapping, Incident Response Plans, Awareness Training, BC/DR Planning and Compliance and Regulatory adherence. Threat Intelligence: The backing of a global Security Operations Center (SOC) comprised of 2,000+ analysts. Continuous Monitoring and Improvement: A dedicated Network Operations Center (NOC) provides 24x7 support, to augment your team. Customizable Solutions: Catered to business requirements, use cases, risk profiles, and desired outcomes. Lifecycle Approach: An eight-step methodology to ensure continuous engagement and customer satisfaction.

Aqueduct's Cyber Risk Self-Evaluation helps you identify where your organization's security posture stands today, with actionable insights you can take back to your organization.

About Aqueduct Technologies:

Aqueduct is ranked among the top 100 managed security solution providers in North America, by The Channel Company. Aqueduct's award-winning team has expertise across the technology ecosystem, spanning networking, security, data, cloud, collaboration, and carrier services. For customers looking for an all-inclusive solution, Aqueduct provides a robust portfolio of as a service offers, backed by a 100% services guarantee. For more information, visit www.aqueducttech.com.

SOURCE Aqueduct Technologies, Inc.
SHERABAD, Uzbekistan, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Arctech, the world's leading solar tracking, racking, and BIPV provider, is pleased to announce the signing of a major contract with China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) for the supply of a 500MW solar tracking system in Sherabad of Surkhandarya Province in Uzbekistan.

Arctech will provide SkyLine II solar tracking system for this project. This stiff tracker mounts a synchronous multi-point drive mechanism. It has a wind stow threshold of 22m/s, which allows it to track the sun for more hours and effectively increase power generation and create greater economic value for project owners. The rigidity provided by the multi-point drive mechanism also allows to safely stow to 0-degree, which is critical to prevent module cracks and damages.

The Sherabad solar PV power project is a ground-mounted solar project which is planned over 600 hectares. It has officially entered the comprehensive construction phase and is expected to be connected to the grid by the end of 2023. After completion, the project is expected to generate 1,040,000MWh of electricity and supply enough clean energy to power 300,000 households. It effectively solves the problem of energy shortage in Uzbekistan, reduces dependence on fossil energy, promotes the transformation and upgrading of the local social energy structure, and boosts the development of "Green Silk Road".

2023 marks the tenth anniversary of the initiative "the Belt and Road". Uzbekistan, located in the hinterland of Central Asia, is an important fulcrum country for the construction of "the Belt and Road". China and Uzbekistan have continuously made important achievements in new energy cooperation. During the recent state visit of the President of Uzbekistan to China, the two countries reached an agreement to build 11 solar and wind power plants with a total installed capacity of 4.8GW.

With excellent product performance and ultimate solutions, Arctech has recently won other two projects in Uzbekistan including the 1 GW photovoltaic power generation project in Qashqadaryo Viloyati and Buxoro, and the 240MW solar photovoltaic power generation plant in Tashkent. It is a reflection of the success of Arctech's strategy of deepening "the Belt and Road ", which further indicates that the product quality and brand influence of Arctech are favored by clients. Arctech will always be client-centric, with enhancing client value as its principle of action, and win the trust of clients with better products and more efficient services.

SOURCE Arctech
ATLANTA, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Artivion, Inc. (NYSE: AORT), a leading cardiac and vascular surgery company focused on aortic disease, today announced that it will present virtually at the upcoming Gilmartin Group Emerging Growth Company Showcase on Thursday, September 21, 2023. The Company's presentation is scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m. ET.

A live webcast of the presentation will be accessible through Artivion's website, www.artivion.com, on the Investors page. An archived copy of the webcast will be available for 90 days on the same website.

About Artivion, Inc.

Headquartered in suburban Atlanta, Georgia, Artivion, Inc. is a medical device company focused on developing simple, elegant solutions that address cardiac and vascular surgeons' most difficult challenges in treating patients with aortic diseases. Artivion's four major groups of products include: aortic stent grafts, surgical sealants, On-X mechanical heart valves, and implantable cardiac and vascular human tissues. Artivion markets and sells products in more than 100 countries worldwide. For additional information about Artivion, visit our website, www.artivion.com.





Artivion D. Ashley Lee Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer Phone: 770-419-3355 Gilmartin Group LLC Brian Johnston / Lynn Lewis Phone: 332-895-3222 [email protected]

SOURCE Artivion, Inc.
NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Esteemed NYC law firm Rheingold Giuffra Ruffo & Plotkin LLP ("RGRP") urges adult survivors of sexual abuse to seek justice under the landmark New York State legislation, the Adult Survivors Act (ASA).

Signed by Governor Hochul, the ASA has created a watershed moment for adult survivors by temporarily lifting the statute of limitations from November 24, 2022, until November 24, 2023. As the deadline nears, adult victims of sexual abuse are encouraged to come forward against their abusers.

RGRP Partner, Thomas P. Giuffra

Sexual Abuse Allegations Against Prominent NY Urologist

Urologist Dr. Darius Paduch was indicted on criminal counts of sexually abusing his patients in April of 2023. Soon after, civil sexual assault lawsuits against the doctor were filed.

These civil claims have been filed under New York State's Child Victims Act and the Adult Survivors Act, statutes that extended previous filing deadlines and created a temporary "lookback window" within which victims can file legal complaints.

For those who were sexually abused by Dr. Paduch as minors, the statute allows civil remedies until the age of 55. Those abused as adults have until November 24, 2023 the expiration of the "lookback window" to file claims regardless of when they occurred.

RGRP Leads the Civil Charge Against Dr. Paduch

RGRP Partner, Thomas Giuffra, recently filed lawsuits against Dr. Paduch and New York Presbyterian Hospital for negligent hiring, retention, and supervision practices.

According to the complaints, the incidents occurred between 2009-2022. The doctor stands accused of conducting exams without gloves, performing treatments that were deemed ineffectual, filming exams, and engaging in otherwise inappropriate conduct.

Criminal penalties notwithstanding, the civil claims against the doctor and his places of employment face steep financial penalties as well.

Do Not Wait Until the Lookback Window Closes

Rheingold Giuffra Ruffo & Plotkin LLP has decades of experience advocating for survivors of sexual abuse and assault by trusted figures such as doctors, priests, and others. Attorney Giuffra has stated, "Darius Paduch exploited his position of trust for his deviant satisfaction. The defendant's conduct is so shocking, outrageous, and contemptible that it exceeds the reasonable bounds of decency and shows blatant disregard for the consequences of his actions."

Patients of Dr. Paduch's who believe they were sexually assaulted are strongly encouraged to email Attorney Giuffra at [email protected] or call 212-684-1880 today before the statutory window closes.

SOURCE Rheingold Giuffra Ruffo & Plotkin, LLP
Ascenty is a trusted partner in customers' digital transformation journey based on its extensive industry expertise, next-generation infrastructure, and outstanding services.

SAN ANTONIO, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Frost & Sullivan recently researched the data center services industry and, based on its findings, recognizes Ascenty with the 2023 Brazilian Company of the Year Award. Ascenty is a major provider of data center services, featuring world-class services through its highly sophisticated technology and 34 data centers across Brazil, Mexico, Chile, and Colombia.

Ascenty Award Logo

Ascenty sustains its competitive advantage by offering out-of-the-box services and high-quality infrastructure in strategic locations to reach customers through its fiber optic network, which spans over 5,000 kilometers (3,107 miles). Moreover, Ascenty stands out among data center providers for its cost-effective, cross-connect connectivity and cloud connection services, with multiple low-latency speed options that meet customers' evolving needs and improve operational efficiency.

"Ascenty maintains its competitive edge by providing reliable services to its customers. Its extensive industry experience gives the company a deep understanding of the market, enabling it to offer clients valuable benefits (e.g., operation expansion to key locations, reduced costs, and improved connectivity). With this focus, Frost & Sullivan expects Ascenty to sustain its leadership in the Brazil data center services market," said Kriti Yadav, Industry Analyst at Frost & Sullivan.

The company has an outstanding portfolio of over 200 certifications, including the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 45001 and ISO 14001. Additionally, Ascenty is a 100% carbon-neutral company, reflecting its social and environmental responsibility to its investors and customers. Ascenty, therefore, continues to expand its customer base through its impressive reputation.

Ascenty prioritizes customer satisfaction and provides customizable and scalable solutions to build loyalty and keep customers' businesses on the right track. Ascenty's executive team, therefore, frequently engages with customers to assess their unique needs, develop tailored solutions with roadmaps for seamless execution, and monitor emerging market trends to enhance the company's products. As a result, with its strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and superior service performance, the company is set apart from its competitors and continues to exhibit strong growth in Latin America.

"The company established itself as a trusted partner in clients' digital transformation journey, owing to its industry expertise, next-generation infrastructure, and outstanding services. Frost & Sullivan believes Ascenty is poised to solidify its position as a top provider in the market," noted Valentina Barcia, Best Practices Research Analyst at Frost & Sullivan.

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents a Company of the Year Award to the organization that demonstrates excellence, in terms of growth strategy and implementation in its field. The award recognizes a high degree of innovation with products and technologies and the resulting leadership, in terms of customer value and market penetration.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Awards recognize companies in various regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analyses, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

About Frost & Sullivan

For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, Mega Trends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success. Contact us: Start the discussion .

Contact:

Ashley Weinkauf

P: 210-844-2505

E: [email protected]

About Ascenty

Ascenty, a Digital Realty and Brookfield company, is the largest connectivity and data center service provider in Latin America, currently managing 34 data centers in operation and/or construction in Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Colombia, interconnected by 5,000 km of proprietary fiber-optic network. The company was established in 2010 and builds and operates world-class data centers serving the world's largest cloud and technology providers, as well as other customers in the finance, retail, industrial, healthcare and service industries. To support its expansion, Ascenty relies on its shareholders  Brookfield Infrastructure Partners, a Canadian asset management company, and Digital Realty, the world's largest data center company, with more than 310 sites located in North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Australia. To learn more about Ascenty, go to the website.

SOURCE Frost & Sullivan
SHEFFIELD, England, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ASK4, Europe's leading provider of critical in-building Internet connectivity to the multi-tenant real estate sector, today announced that GI Partners, a leading investor in critical data infrastructure businesses, has signed a definite agreement to acquire the company from Bowmark Capital. ASK4 will be GI Partners' first data infrastructure investment in Europe. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals.

Based in Sheffield, U.K., ASK4 provides managed Internet, IT and IoT services across 12 European countries supporting over 320,000 customers. With the support of its current investment partners, Bowmark Capital, ASK4 has solidified its leading position in its core markets and strategically expanded into new segments.

"ASK4's purpose is to support people and communities to be connected, allowing them to live life and work productively in their homes and workspaces," said Andrew Dutton, CEO of ASK4. "We have enjoyed a fantastic partnership with Bowmark over the last five years and we are excited about the future with GI as we continue to develop the ways we support existing clients and expand the delivery of our services into multi-tenant communities across Europe and North America."

"ASK4's core proposition is the delivery of fully managed Wi-Fi connectivity within multi-tenant buildings serving students, working professionals and people in retirement. We are delighted to partner with Andrew Dutton and the ASK4 team to execute a focused geographical, sector and service expansion effort," said Matt Barker, Managing Director and Head of Europe for GI Data Infrastructure. "ASK4's technical and service excellence is uniquely positioned to provide real estate investors and operators with market leading services that drive retention, re-bookings and improved net operating income."

Mark Prybutok and Brendan Scollans, Co-Heads of GI Data Infrastructure, added "We are pleased to be announcing our first European investment for GI Partners' Data Infrastructure strategy. We have tracked the development of ASK4 for many years, and our teams in Europe and the U.S. worked closely together to execute on this investment. ASK4's balance of high-quality contracted revenues and attractive value-add growth prospects makes it a very well-suited addition to the GI Data Infrastructure portfolio."

About ASK4

ASK4 is headquartered in Sheffield, United Kingdom and is the leading provider of managed Internet services to multi-tenant buildings in 12 European countries. ASK4 is dedicated to providing reliable high-speed Internet and connecting communities ensuring they can live life and work productively. For more information, please visit www.ASK4.com.

About GI Partners

Founded in 2001, GI Partners is a private investment firm with over 150 employees and offices in San Francisco, New York, Dallas, Chicago, Greenwich, Scottsdale, and London. The firm has raised more than $41 billion in capital and invests on behalf of leading institutional investors around the world through its private equity, real estate, and data infrastructure strategies. The private equity team invests primarily in companies in the healthcare, services, and software sectors. The real estate strategy focuses primarily on technology and life sciences properties as well as other specialized types of real estate. The data infrastructure team invests primarily in hard asset infrastructure businesses underpinning the digital economy. For more information, please visit www.gipartners.com/.

Media Contacts:

Chris Tofalli

Chris Tofalli Public Relations

914-834-4334

[email protected]

Gretchen Robinson

Investor Relations

[email protected]

Jess Glover

Head of Marketing

[email protected]

SOURCE GI Partners
Elevating digital security: AtData and Persona join forces to combat fraud in the digital era

DEDHAM, Mass., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AtData, the leader in email address intelligence, announced its partnership with Persona, a unified identity platform that helps businesses verify their users and fight fraud. This collaboration reflects an industry that is acknowledging the pressing need for stronger defenses against a myriad of online threats. With data breaches, identity theft, and fraud on the rise, these partnerships represent a promising front against the pressing challenges.

Persona's Logo

AtData's rich email-centric intelligence data will be available in Persona's marketplace, where their customers can access the largest global email address network that can identify malicious users hiding behind an email address. Persona's choice in partnership further highlights AtData's prowess in risk and fraud prevention, reinforcing their position within data focused solutions.

AtData has demonstrated its commitment to innovation for over 20 years, driving industry standards while leveraging its email intelligence data to meet the demand of modern fraud operations teams. Backed by AtData's advanced machine learning models, Persona's clients benefit from AtData's flexible Fraud Services API tied to their historic database.

Tom Burke, CEO of AtData, remarked, "This partnership with Persona is a testament to our shared vision of creating a safer, smarter digital economy. AtData has always believed in the power of data-driven decisionsbeing added to the Persona marketplace will enable their customers to utilize our expertise in email address intelligence and robust data offerings to help capture more fraud with greater confidence. Together, we're looking forward to making strides in preventing fraud and ensuring a more secure digital experience for users everywhere."

Persona, through its platform, has been an innovator in enabling businesses to streamline their identity operations, making services more user-centric and efficient. The integration of AtData's fraud solution into Persona's Marketplace will elevate this efficiency to an even higher level, enabling businesses to operate more securely.

"To combat the rising tide of sophisticated fraud, we've seen more of our customers incorporate additional risk signals as part of their verification and decisioning process," says Persona's Trust and Safety Architect Jeff Sakasegawa. "By leveraging AtData's expertise in email address intelligence via our Marketplace platform, joint customers can flag additional suspicious users while getting a holistic view of a customer's riskiness."

For those interested in exploring further, AtData's fraud solution can be found in Persona's Marketplace.

About AtData

AtData, the Email Address Experts, is the leader in email address intelligence with the most accurate, comprehensive and privacy compliant email-centric data solutions. We leverage our 20-year dynamic, proprietary fields and models to identify malicious users hiding behind an email address stopping fraud in its tracks enabling organizations to avoid fake account creations, transactional fraud, and account takeovers. With AtData's real-time fraud prevention solution, you can identify high-risk users resulting in cleaner customer data, less chargebacks, and increased conversions. For additional information, visit https://www.atdata.com/

About Persona

Persona offers a unified identity platform that gives businesses the building blocks to securely collect, verify, manage, and make decisions about individuals' and businesses' identitiesalong with automation and orchestration tools to streamline the entire process from end to end. Founded in 2018, Persona is headquartered in San Francisco and is available in 200+ countries and territories and 20 different languages. Persona serves any business that needs to verify its customers online, including retail, fintech, marketplace, delivery services, real estate, hospitality, HR, edtech, legal services, home, childcare services, and more. For additional information, visit https://withpersona.com/

Press Kit Link

AtData's Suite Of Services

Retail Today CEO Editorial

Digital360 Top Vendor Lists 2023

Inc 5000 Business 2023

Contact:

April Paige, Marketing & Communications Manager

c 941-586-6550

[email protected]



More information is available upon request.

SOURCE AtData
BALTIMORE, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today the American Urological Association (AUA) released the 2023 clinical practice guideline amendment for the management of lower urinary tract symptoms attributed to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a histologic diagnosis that refers to the production of smooth muscle and epithelial cells within the prostatic transition zone. The prevalence and the severity of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in the aging male can be progressive and is an important diagnosis in the healthcare of patients and the welfare of society.

This guideline was reviewed through the AUA Update Literature Review (ULR) process and subsequently amended based on the availability of new literature, including:

New section on "Legacy Technologies."

New studies added for combination therapy using tolterodine/doxazosin versus combined mirabegron/doxazosin and silodosin versus PDE-5.

New statement on combination of low-dose daily tadalafil 5mg with finasteride.

60-month data added for water vapor thermal therapy.

Updates to the Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE) statement and supporting text.

New statement on temporary implanted prostatic devices (TIPD).

"In addressing troublesome LUTS, healthcare providers must acknowledge the intricate interplay among the bladder, bladder neck, prostate, and urethra," said Dr. Jaspreet S. Sandhu, MD, a urologic surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. "This updated guideline aims to serve as a valuable resource for the proficient and evidence-based management of LUTS/BPH."

This amendment is an update from the 2021 guideline that originally covered the topic. It was distributed to peer reviewers of varying backgrounds as part of the AUA's extensive peer review process before being approved by the AUA Board of Directors.

The full updated guideline is now available at auanet.org/BPHGuideline

A summary of the Guideline also appears at:

Sandhu JS, Bixler BR, Dahm P, et al. Management of lower urinary tract symptoms attributed to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): AUA Guideline amendment 2023. J Urol. 2023;10.1097/JU.0000000000003698. https://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003694



Please use this reference to cite the guideline.

About the American Urological Association: Founded in 1902 and headquartered near Baltimore, Maryland, the American Urological Association is a leading advocate for the specialty of urology, and has more than 23,000 members throughout the world. The AUA is a premier urologic association, providing invaluable support to the urologic community as it pursues its mission of fostering the highest standards of urologic care through education, research and the formulation of health policy.

Contact:

Corey Del Bianco, Corporate Communications & Media Relations Manager

443-909-4033,

[email protected]

SOURCE American Urological Association
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira discussed the development of Ukrainian-Brazilian bilateral relations, and also agreed on positions on the eve of the high-level week of the UN General Assembly.

During our call, Brazil's Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira and I discussed the development of Ukrainian-Brazilian bilateral relations. We also coordinated our positions ahead of the upcoming high-level week of the UN General Assembly, Kuleba said on X (formerly Twitter.)
NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The audiobooks market is estimated to grow by USD 10.91 billion from 2022 to 2027, growing at a CAGR of 25.32%. The audiobook market is fragmented owing to the presence of many global and regional companies. A few prominent companies that offer audiobooks market are Alphabet Inc., Amazon.com Inc., Apple Inc., Barnes and Noble Booksellers Inc., Bonnier, BookLender.com, DOWNPOUR, KUKU FM, Libro.fm SPC., Midwest Tape LLC, Open Culture LLC., Pubmark Inc., RBmedia, Scribd Inc., Spotify Technology SA, Storynory Ltd., Storytel AB, W.F. Howes Ltd., Rakuten Group Inc., and LMBPN Publishings. The report provides a full list of key companies, their strategies, and the latest developments. Download FREE Sample before buying

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Audiobooks Market 2023-2027

Company Offering:

Alphabet Inc. - The company offers audiobooks under the subsidiary of Google LCC.

The company offers audiobooks under the subsidiary of Google LCC. Barnes and Noble Booksellers Inc. - The company offers audiobooks for Historical fiction, horror books, fiction audiobooks, and Sci-Fi and fantasy audiobooks.

- The company offers audiobooks for Historical fiction, horror books, fiction audiobooks, and Sci-Fi and fantasy audiobooks. For details on companies and their offerings  Buy the report!

By Geography, the market is classified as North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa. North America will have the largest share of the market.

North America is estimated to contribute 35% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. The US and Canada contribute largely to the growth of the audiobook market in the region. Additionally, some institutions are adopting bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies in the US, allowing students to gain digital skills while reducing the amount of money institutions spend. Furthermore, the region is home to major companies such as Apple, Downpour, Barnes and Noble Booksellers, Amazon, Alphabet, Rbmedia, and Scribd. Regionally based e-book companies, such as Amazon, are working to provide e-book readers with the ability to play audiobooks. For example, the US version of the Kindle Paperwhite may also support audiobooks. Hence, these factors are expected to drive market growth in the region during the forecast period.

Download a FREE sample report to get more insights on the market share of various regions and the contribution of the segments.

Impactful driver- Proliferation of smart devices and applications

Proliferation of smart devices and applications Key Trend - Increasing use of voice assistants and smart speakers to listen to audiobooks

- Increasing use of voice assistants and smart speakers to listen to audiobooks Major Challenges - Increasing threat from open-source content

Market Segmentation

By Channel, the market is classified into one-time download and subscription-based.

Technavio Research experts have provided more insights on the market share of segments - View FREE Sample Report

Related Reports

The music synthesizers market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.85% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 265.44 million. This music synthesizers market report extensively covers market segmentation by type (digital synthesizers and analog synthesizers), distribution channel (offline and online), and geography (North America, APAC, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America). The growing popularity of hybrid synthesizers is notably driving the market growth.

The music and video market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 19.7% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 413.28 billion. This music and video market report extensively covers market segmentation by platform (digital and physical), type (video and music), and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa). Rising Internet and smartphone penetration is the key factor driving the growth of the global music and video market.

TOC:

1 Executive Summary

2 Market Landscape

3 Market Sizing

4 Historic Market Size

5 Five Forces Analysis

6 Market Segmentation by Channel

7 Market Segmentation by Type

8 Customer Landscape

9 Geographic Landscape

10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

11 Company Landscape

12 Company Analysis

13 Appendix

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact US:

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com

SOURCE Technavio
VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Augusta Gold Corp. (TSX: G) (OTCQB: AUGG) (FSE: 11B) ("Augusta Gold" or the "Company") announces that it has negotiated a three-month extension to the maturity date of its loan with Augusta Investments Inc., the Company's largest shareholder.

The Company is actively advancing the Reward Project and other opportunities in the gold sector. Management intends to use the fully permitted Reward Project and brownfield Bullfrog Project as a foundation to build a new mid-tier gold company and has the financial support of its largest shareholders.

The Reward Project and Bullfrog Project host combined measured and indicated mineral resources of 1,635,990 oz gold and combined inferred mineral resources of 285,000 oz gold.

Technical Reports

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release related to the Reward Project is based upon the technical report titled "Mineral Resource Estimate for the Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA" with an effective date of May 31, 2022, prepared by Michael Dufresne and Timothy Scott, who are independent "Qualified Persons" under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K under the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release related to the Bullfrog Project is based upon the technical report titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report Mineral Resource Estimate, Bullfrog Gold Project, Nye County, Nevada" with an effective date of December 31, 2021, prepared by Russ Downer and Adam House of Forte Dynamics, who are independent "Qualified Persons" under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K under the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

Mineral Resource Estimates

The Company's combined mineral resources are comprised of the below mineral resource estimates for the Reward Project and Bullfrog Project.

Reward Mineral Resource Estimate

Classification Tonnage (Mt) Average Grade (g/t) Contained Au (koz) Measured Indicated M&I Total 6.19 11.58 17.77 0.86 0.69 0.75 169.9 256.8 426.7 Inferred 1.23 0.68 27.1

Notes





1. Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,700/oz and a recovery of 80% for Au were utilized.

2. Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.20/tonne.

3. Processing and general and administration are US$6.06/tonne and US$0.83/tonne per tonne processed, respectively.

4. Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

5. Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes and are partially diluted.

6. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

7. The effective date of the Reward mineral resource estimate is May 31, 2022.







Bullfrog Mineral Resource Estimate







Classification Tonnes (Mt) Au grade (g/t) Ag grade (g/t) Au Contained (koz) Ag Contained (koz)

Measured 30.13 0.544 1.35 526.68 1,309.13

Indicated 40.88 0.519 1.18 682.61 1,557.49

Measured and Indicated 71.01 0.530 1.26 1,209.29 2,866.62

Inferred 16.69 0.481 0.96 257.90 515.72

Notes:





1. Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.

2. Sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag. No sulphide material was reported for Montgomery-Shoshone or Bonanza.

3. Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.

4. Processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.

5. Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

6. Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.

7. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

8. The effective date of the Bullfrog mineral resource estimate is December 31, 2021.







About Augusta Gold

Augusta Gold is an exploration and development company focused on building a long-term business that delivers stakeholder value through developing the Reward and Bullfrog gold projects and pursing accretive M&A opportunities. The Reward and Bullfrog gold projects are located in the prolific Bullfrog mining district approximately 120 miles north-west of Las Vegas, Nevada and just outside of Beatty, Nevada. The Company is led by a management team and board of directors with a proven track record of success in financing and developing mining assets and delivering shareholder value. For more information, please visit www.augustagold.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements and information contained in this new release constitute "forward-looking statements", and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). These statements appear in a number of places in this news release and include statements regarding our intent, or the beliefs or current expectations of our officers and directors, including that management intends to use the fully permitted Reward Project and brownfield Bullfrog Project as a foundation to build a new mid-tier gold company and has the financial support of its largest shareholders. When used in this news release words such as "intends" and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements and/or information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements since the Company can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to vary materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements, including the risks, uncertainties and other factors identified in the Company's periodic filings with Canadian Regulators and the SEC. Such forward-looking statements are based on various assumptions, including assumptions made with regard to assumptions about future prices of gold, and other metal prices, currency exchange rates and interest rates, favourable operating conditions, political stability, obtaining governmental approvals and financing on time, obtaining renewals for existing licenses and permits and obtaining required licenses and permits, labour stability, stability in market conditions, the impact from the pandemic of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), availability of equipment, the availability of drill rigs, the timing of the publication of any updated mineral resource estimates. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable, based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Except as required by applicable law, we assume no obligation to update or to publicly announce the results of any change to any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect actual results, future events or developments, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting the forward-looking statements. If we update any one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. You should not place undue importance on forward-looking statements and should not rely upon these statements as of any other date. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary note.

SOURCE Augusta Gold Corp.
ATLANTA, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- An increasing number of national medical academies are touting the benefits of "team-based healthcare." Team-based healthcare is a simple concept where health care professionals work collaboratively with patients and their caregivers to accomplish shared goals. Implementing this concept has unfortunately been a rarity for many healthcare organizations due to a fragmented and complex health care landscape.

Aylo Health patients have access to a team of healthcare professionals beyond the traditional family medicine model.

"The journey to better health is not an individual venture," noted Tim Reichert of Aylo Health in Georgia. "When we committed to redefine healthcare at Aylo Health, the team-based care model was at the very heart of our concept."

Aylo Health patients have access to a team of healthcare professionals beyond the traditional family medicine model. An Aylo Health patients' healthcare team includes imaging, laboratory, pediatrics, sleep medicine and more. Aylo Health believes that this team-based healthcare model can dramatically improve the patient experience.

The Aylo Health team-based healthcare model has resulted in the following:

1. Improved Patient Outcomes

Studies have shown that involving a team of healthcare professionals can lead to better patient outcomes. This approach enables patients to receive more comprehensive and coordinated care that addresses all aspects of their health.

2. Enhanced Patient Satisfaction

Team-based care can also lead to higher levels of patient satisfaction. When patients are receiving personalized and coordinated care, they are more likely to feel satisfied with their healthcare experience. In fact, over the last 3 months  Aylo Health providers have averaged a 4.9/5 rating from patients!

3. Better Continuity of Care

Team based care can also help ensure better continuity of care. When providers work together, they can share information and ensure that all aspects of a patient's health are being addressed, even if they see different providers at different times. You don't need to see the same doctor every time to get the best care.

"As an Aylo Health patient, you're supported by a team of caring professionals equipped with the tools to help you get and stay healthy" Reichert said. If you want to experience healthcare redefined at Aylo Health, visit their website to find the location nearest you: https://aylohealth.com/locations/

CONTACT:

Tim Reichert

Vice President of Marketing

(770) 914-0116 x 11820

SOURCE Aylo Health
BOSTON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE: BHLB), the parent company of Berkshire Bank, a leading socially responsible community bank with financial centers in New England and New York, announced the election of Mary Anne Callahan to the Board of Directors of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary Berkshire Bank effective September 13, 2023. Ms. Callahan has extensive investment banking expertise including advising bank clients on strategy, capital management and merger and acquisitions. She served most recently as a Managing Director in the Financial Services Group at Piper Sandler Companies. Upon her election, Ms. Callahan was determined to be an independent director and appointed to the Compensation Committee and the Risk Management, Capital and Compliance Committee of the Board.

Mary Anne Callahan

"We are delighted to welcome Mary Anne to our Board of Directors," said Chairperson David M. Brunelle. "Her shareholder orientation and substantial investment banking experience will bring insights and valuable perspectives to the Board."

"Mary Anne's deep understanding of the competitive dynamics in the New England and New York banking markets along with her extensive industry knowledge and decades-long relationships in the sector make her the ideal candidate to help Berkshire Bank continue to grow strategically while advancing on our journey toward becoming a high-performing, leading socially responsible community bank," added Berkshire Bank CEO Nitin Mhatre.

"Berkshire has built a reputable financial institution that is well-respected by clients, investors, employees and its broader communities. I'm excited to have the opportunity to join the board and use my experience to contribute to Berkshire's ongoing transformation," stated Ms. Callahan.

About Mary Anne Callahan

Ms. Callahan brings more than 35 years of investment banking expertise most recently as a Managing Director in the Financial Services Group at Piper Sandler Companies where her responsibilities included advising bank management and boards of directors in the Northeast region on a broad range of strategic and financial topics. Prior to joining Piper Sandler, she was a principal in Sandler O'Neill & Partners, L.P.'s investment banking group advising banks, thrifts and specialty finance companies and worked in the financial institutions group at Merrill Lynch and CIBC World Markets. Ms. Callahan holds a Master of Business Administration from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Arts from Wellesley College.

About Berkshire Hills Bancorp

Headquartered in Boston, Berkshire Hills Bancorp (NYSE:BHLB) is the parent of Berkshire Bank. Founded in 1846, the Bank's vision is to be a high-performing leading socially responsible community bank. It empowers the financial potential of its stakeholders by making banking available where, when, and how it's needed through an uncompromising focus on exceptional customer service, digital banking, and positive community impact. Providing a wide range of financial solutions through its consumer banking, commercial banking and wealth management divisions, the Bank has approximately $12.1 billion in assets and a community-based footprint of 100 financial centers in Massachusetts, New York, Vermont, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Named one of America's Most Trusted Companies by Newsweek and America's Best Midsize Employers by Forbes, Berkshire is also listed in the Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index and a Best Place to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality. To learn more, follow us on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and LinkedIn .

Investor Contact

Kevin Conn

Investor Relations

617.641.9206

[email protected]

Media Contact:

Gary Levante

Corporate Communications

413.447-1737

[email protected]

SOURCE Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc.
Co-Founder Tom Berthel to Focus on Capitalization and Strategic Initiatives and Continue as President, CEO and Chairman of the Berthel Fisher Holding Company

Andrew Christofferson Appointed CEO of RIA, Broker-Dealers and Insurance Agency

Paige Swartzendruber, Brian Rupp and Joanna Schaul Also Promoted to New Roles



CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Berthel Fisher Companies (Berthel Fisher or the "firm")  a leading wealth management, investment management and insurance solutions provider  today began to implement the next stage of its growth vision by announcing several enhancements to its leadership team.

Andrew Christofferson has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Berthel Fisher's RIA, two broker-dealers and insurance agency subsidiaries. In these roles, Mr. Christofferson, who previously served as Chief Operating Officer, assumes the responsibilities of Tom Berthel, the firm's Co-Founder. Mr. Berthel will continue to act as President, CEO and Chairman of the holding company while now focusing his efforts on capitalization and strategic initiatives.

Meanwhile, other promotions include:

Paige Swartzendruber , Chief Business Development Officer of the subsidiaries;

, Chief Business Development Officer of the subsidiaries; Brian Rupp, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of the subsidiaries;

Joanna Schaul, Chief Administrative Officer of the subsidiaries.

"I am thrilled that Andy is taking over as my successor in overseeing day-to-day operations of our subsidiaries, and I congratulate Paige, Brian and Joanna on their promotions," Mr. Berthel said. "These moves have been in the works for some time, so I'm proud that this day has finally come and relieved that our financial professionals will be in great hands going forward. Not only are these leaders uniquely prepared for their new responsibilities, but the appointments enable me to accelerate Berthel Fisher's long-term growth plans while giving me the opportunity to closely collaborate with the senior leadership team going forward."

Mr. Berthel co-founded Berthel Fisher in 1985. The diversified financial services firm has since grown to support more than 360 financial professionals who oversee approximately $9.8 billion in assets under advisement (AUA) through an array of wealth management business models. Under Mr. Berthel's leadership, Berthel Fisher has evolved to provide a wide range of traditional and alternative investments, income solutions and portfolio strategies, as well as holistic planning services for financial professionals and their clients.

Mr. Christofferson has more than 23 years of financial services experience. He joined Berthel Fisher in 2012, rising from Senior Vice President of Business Development to Chief Business Development Officer, before becoming COO in 2018. Prior to joining Berthel Fisher, Mr. Christofferson served as Chief Investment Officer at Securian Advisors MidAmerica. He began his career with InterSecurities, now part of Transamerica Financial Advisors.

The promotions of Ms. Swartzendruber, Mr. Rupp and Ms. Schaul  who all possess deep financial services experience and extensive institutional knowledge of Berthel Fisher  further enhance support for the firm's financial professionals and ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities for Mr. Christofferson and Mr. Berthel.

Ms. Swartzendruber joined Berthel Fisher in 2007. Previously, she served as a registered representative, financial planner and Vice President, Advisor Relationships & Strategy Consulting. Most recently, Ms. Swartzendruber served as Senior Vice President Business Development and Director for Berthel Fisher subsidiaries.

Mr. Rupp joined Berthel Fisher in 2016. Previously, he served as Vice President, Controller, Treasurer and Director for Berthel Fisher. Prior to Berthel Fisher, Mr. Rupp served as an Accounting Manager at Sourcemedia/Gazette and before that at AEGON. Earlier in his career, Mr. Rupp was a Controller at Waste Management.

Before her promotion, Ms. Schaul was Senior Vice President Administration and Secretary for Berthel Fisher subsidiaries, she joined the firm in 2005 after spending nearly five years with GE Capital, where she filled a variety of key roles.

"Paige, Brian, Joanna and I are humbled and eager to embark up the next stage of our careers with Berthel Fisher," Mr. Christofferson said. "Over the years, Tom has done an unbelievable job of providing our financial professionals with everything they need to help their clients reach their life goals and aspirations. We have a very strong leadership team in place, and all of us look forward to continuing to work with Tom closely as he focuses on other strategic priorities for the company, as well as to building upon his impressive legacy of supporting our financial professionals."

Berthel Fisher & Company

Berthel Fisher & Company ("The Berthel Fisher Companies," "Berthel Fisher"), consists of Berthel Fisher & Company Financial Services, a leading independent broker-dealer; BFC Planning, a SEC-Registered Investment Advisor; Berthel Fisher & Company Insurance, an agency providing comprehensive solutions with competitive contracts from top carriers; Securities Management & Research (SMR), an insurance-based broker-dealer operated by a securities firm as well as SMR's holding company, One Financial; and has majority ownership of BFC Investments, Commercial Power Finance, and iPrism Global. For more information, visit https://www.berthel.com/.

Media Contact:

Joseph Kuo / Michael Dugan

Haven Tower Group LLC

424 317 4851 or 424 317 4852

[email protected] or [email protected]

SOURCE Berthel Fisher Companies
TROY, Mich. and DETROIT, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession, has named Thomas P. Cavanaugh as one of The Best Lawyers in America (2024 Edition).

The current, 30th edition of The Best Lawyers in America (2024) is based on more than 16.1 million detailed evaluations of lawyers by other lawyers. The list of outstanding attorneys is compiled by conducting exhaustive peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers. The lawyers being honored as "The Best Lawyers in America" are highlighted as the top legal talent in America.

Mr. Cavanaugh primary practice areas are estate planning and post-mortem administration/litigation. He graduated cum laude in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy. A 1998 graduate (J.D., cum laude) from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, he has authored numerous articles on estate and business planning, particularly addressing the uses of life insurance.

Mr. Cavanaugh is a member of the State Bar of Michigan (Member: Estates and Probate; Real Estate); American Bar Association; and the American Trial Lawyers Association. We would like to congratulate Thomas P. Cavanaugh on being selected for The Best Lawyers in America (2024 Edition).

About Giarmarco, Mullins & Horton, P.C.

Giarmarco, Mullins & Horton, P.C. is ranked as the 12th largest law firm in Michigan. Founded 40 years ago, located in Troy, Detroit, and Lansing, Michigan, it is a full-service law firm with 65 attorneys. Areas of practice include estate planning, corporate and business law, health care law, business transactions, commercial litigation, governmental law, real estate, creditors' rights, criminal law, employment and labor law, workers' compensation, and family law. Giarmarco, Mullins & Horton, P.C. is named in Best Law Firms in America, Tier 1. Inclusion in Best Lawyers in America is based on peer review in the legal profession. Visit www.gmhlaw.com for more information.

SOURCE Giarmarco, Mullins & Horton, P.C.
ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Boeing [NYSE: BA] announced a $300,000 donation (equivalent to 3,000,000 MAD) from the Boeing Charitable Trust to assist with Moroccan earthquake recovery and relief efforts. The company also pledged to match dollar-for-dollar monetary donations from Boeing employees who contribute to the cause, extending the reach of assistance provided to the Moroccan people.

"Amidst the devastation left in the wake of this earthquake, we extend our deepest sympathy to Moroccans who are enduring such unimaginable hardship," said Ziad Ojakli, executive vice president of Government Operations at Boeing. "Boeing colleagues around the world are dedicated to supporting the people of Morocco, and we stand ready to collaborate with local partners to provide meaningful assistance that leads to healing, rebuilding and renewal."

Boeing funding will support the following organizations:

$150 ,000 to the American Red Cross, in partnership with the global Red Cross and Red Crescent network, for shelter, food, health and mental health services and other relief such as hygiene kits, basic necessities and welfare information.

to the American Red Cross, in partnership with the global Red Cross and Red Crescent network, for shelter, food, health and mental health services and other relief such as hygiene kits, basic necessities and welfare information. $150 ,000 to CARE International for emergency water, food and medical support for survivors.

"Thanks to Boeing's generous support, the global Red Cross network is helping those affected by the Morocco earthquake," said Anne McKeough, chief development officer at the American Red Cross. "We are grateful for partners like Boeing as we work together to provide comfort and hope for communities in the wake of this devastating disaster."

"The reports we are hearing from the ground are heartbreaking. According to our team in Morocco, hundreds of people are sleeping in the streets at night, lying in blankets in parks in the heart of Marrakesh, too afraid to go home," said Madden Manion, executive director of Corporate Partnerships, CARE International. "People are exhausted, and the emotional fear and horror of what they have experienced is indescribable. These coming days are critical, and the generous and timely support shown by Boeing will help us immensely in our work. CARE's priority is to provide hot meals, safe water supply, emergency shelter, medical and psychosocial support."

Disaster relief efforts in Morocco align with Boeing's commitment to communities where Boeing employees live and work. Boeing's presence in Morocco spans more than 50 years. Over the past decade, Boeing has contributed approximately $1 million in charitable giving in the country.

About Boeing

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future and living the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Learn more at www.boeing.com.

For more information about Boeing's philanthropic efforts, please visit the Company's Global Engagement website.

Contacts

Boeing Communications

[email protected]

SOURCE Boeing
"Oscars of Science" Awards $3 Million Prizes for Advances against Cancer, Cystic Fibrosis, Parkinson's Disease; Deep Insights into Quantum Field Theory and Differential Geometry

Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences Awarded to Carl June and Michel Sadelain; Sabine Hadida, Paul Negulescu and Fredrick Van Goor; Thomas Gasser, Ellen Sidransky and Andrew Singleton

Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics Awarded to John Cardy and Alexander Zamolodchikov

Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics Awarded to Simon Brendle

Six New Horizons Prizes Awarded for Early-Career Achievements in Physics and Mathematics

Three Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prizes Awarded to Women Mathematicians for Early-Career Achievements

Laureates to be Honored at Gala Award Ceremony in Los Angeles on April 13, 2024

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Breakthrough Prize Foundation today announced the winners of the 2024 Breakthrough Prizes, honoring an esteemed group of the world's most brilliant minds for impactful scientific discoveries, including a subset responsible for substantial progress in the understanding and treatment of major diseases.

2024 Breakthrough Prize Laureates in Life Sciences, Fundamental Physics, and Mathematics

Science is an endless revolution. Diseases that looked unbeatable twenty years ago can now be managed or cured. Our deepest physics theories explain the world to staggering precision. And in the realm of mathematics, new ideas are reaching into the borderlands of the unknown. The Breakthrough Prize  popularly known as the "Oscars of Science"  was created to celebrate the wonders of our scientific age by founding sponsors Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Julia and Yuri Milner, and Anne Wojcicki.

The Prize's latest slate of laureates are driving this revolution onwards. They include 11 winners of the Breakthrough Prizes in Life Sciences, Fundamental Physics, and Mathematics, sharing five $3 million prizes between them; 12 early-career physicists and mathematicians sharing six $100,000 New Horizons in Physics Prizes; and three women mathematicians who recently completed their PhDs, each receiving a $50,000 Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize. This year's prize money comes to a total of $15.75 million, bringing the amount conferred over the thirteen years of the Breakthrough Prize to $308 million.

Life Sciences

This year's Life Sciences laureates include honorees recognized for key advances in the fight against three major diseases  cancer, cystic fibrosis, and Parkinson's disease.

Carl June and Michel Sadelain genetically engineered T cells  key players in the body's immune system  with synthetic receptors termed chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) to instruct T cells to recognize the cancer cells of individual patients. These CAR T cells have remarkable rates of success against liquid cancers including types of leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. For some patients, the tumors have been entirely eradicated and have not returned, years after treatment.

Sabine Hadida, Paul Negulescu and Fredrick Van Goor invented the first effective medicines to treat the underlying cause of cystic fibrosis. This deadly disease of the lungs and other organs is caused by a protein that can't do its job of allowing ions in and out of cells. These researchers discovered four medicines, the latest of which is a triple combination medicine, that enables the protein to function, greatly improving quality of life  and length of life  for people with this disease.

Thomas Gasser, Ellen Sidransky and Andrew Singleton discovered the most common genetic causes of Parkinson's Disease. Sidransky identified mutations to the gene GBA1, which encodes an enzyme that breaks down fatty substances in cells, as a genetic risk factor for Parkinson's; while Gasser and Singleton independently showed that mutations in the LRRK2 gene result in increased activity of a protein believed to contribute to neuronal damage in the disease. These discoveries offer clues to the mechanisms that cause the disease, pointing to the role of the lysosome, the cellular organelle that degrades and recycles cellular components.

Fundamental Physics

In fundamental physics, John Cardy and Alexander Zamolodchikov have contributed a lifetime of deep insights into quantum field theories, which describe not only particle physics, but emergent phenomena from magnetism and superconducting materials to the information content of black holes, and have also become a rich field of study in mathematics.

Mathematics

Mathematician Simon Brendle has contributed a series of remarkable leaps in differential geometry, a field that uses the tools of calculus to study curves, surfaces and spaces. Many of his results concern the shape of surfaces, as well as manifolds in higher dimensions than those we experience in everyday life.

"The work of these laureates is very impressive  whether it's exploring abstract ideas or unraveling the causes of human diseases and producing effective treatments that impact millions of lives."

-Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg

"Humanity's collective intelligence is our most significant achievement. Great scientists, and Breakthrough Prize laureates among them, are at the forefront of this incredible phenomenon in our Universe."

-Yuri Milner

"Every year I'm inspired by the ideas, discoveries and commitment to progress of the women and men who win the Breakthrough Prize."

-Anne Wojcicki

"Oscars of Science"

The laureates will be celebrated next April 13th at the 10th annual Breakthrough Prize ceremony, held in Los Angeles. The Breakthrough Prize ceremony is the only one of its kind that places scientists on center stage, and is attended by luminaries in film, sports, comedy, and music, to lend their spotlight to shine on scientists.

Last year's ceremony  the first in Los Angeles  was hosted by James Corden and featured Kristen Bell, Magnus Carlsen, Lily Collins, Danny DeVito, Robert Downey Jr., Gal Gadot, Mae Jemison, Brie Larson, Edward Norton, Leslie Odom Jr., Chris Pine, Lauren Ridloff and Chloe Zhao, with music from John Legend, will.i.am and Estelle. Video highlights and photos can be found here.

Early-Career Researchers

Early-career researchers across a range of fields are also recognized, including nine researchers making big strides in astronomy and cosmology. New Horizons in Physics Prizes recognize Michael Johnson and Alexandru Lupsasca, for their studies of photon rings  light trapped in orbit around black holes  and their work showing how they can be detected with future experiments; Laura M. Perez, Paola Pinilla, Nienke van der Marel and Til Birnstiel, who discovered and characterized dust traps  regions of dynamic rings of gas and dust around stars where dust particles aggregate; and Mikhail Ivanov, Oliver Philcox and Marko Simonovic, who studied the structure of the cosmos at the galactic scale, and found ways to use that knowledge to bring fresh insights to fundamental physics.

Physics and mathematics today are deeply interconnected, with discoveries from one discipline frequently lending powerful tools and concepts to the other. This year, the New Horizons in Mathematics Prize is awarded to Roland Bauerschmidt for his work in probability theory and the renormalization group  a concept that emerged from the quantum field theories studied by this year's Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics winners, and has become an important object of study in mathematics. Angkana Ruland is honored for work also touching on ideas derived from physics, such as transitions between states of matter, which are now studied in mathematical fields including analysis, the branch of pure mathematics that emerged from calculus. And Michael Groechenig receives the Prize for his insights into arithmetic geometry.

For work in algebraic geometry, Hannah Larson wins the Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize; alongside Laura Monk for her discoveries about hyperbolic surfaces; and Mayuko Yamashita, for contributions to mathematical physics and index theory.

Full Citations for 2024 Laureates

2024 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences

Carl H. June

Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania

Michel Sadelain

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

For the development of chimeric antigen receptor T cell immunotherapy whereby the patient's T cells are modified to target and kill cancer cells.

2024 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences

Sabine Hadida

Paul Negulescu

Fredrick Van Goor

Vertex Pharmaceuticals

For developing life-transforming drug combinations that repair the defective chloride channel protein in patients with cystic fibrosis.

2024 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences

Thomas Gasser

Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tubingen and German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases

Ellen Sidransky

National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health

Andrew Singleton

National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health

For identifying GBA1 and LRRK2 as risk genes for Parkinson's disease, implicating autophagy and lysosomal biology as critical contributors to the pathogenesis of the disease.

2024 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics

John Cardy

All Souls College, University of Oxford

Alexander Zamolodchikov

Stony Brook University

For profound contributions to statistical physics and quantum field theory, with diverse and far-reaching applications in different branches of physics and mathematics.

2024 Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics

Simon Brendle

Columbia University

For transformative contributions to differential geometry, including sharp geometric inequalities, many results on Ricci flow and mean curvature flow and the Lawson conjecture on minimal tori in the 3-sphere.

2024 New Horizons in Physics Prize

Michael Johnson

Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian

Alexandru Lupsasca

Vanderbilt University

For elucidating the sub-structure and universal characteristics of black hole photon rings, and their proposed detection by next-generation interferometric experiments.

2024 New Horizons in Physics Prize

Mikhail Ivanov

MIT

Oliver Philcox

Columbia University and Simons Foundation

Marko Simonovic

University of Florence

For contributions to our understanding of the large-scale structure of the universe and the development of new tools to extract fundamental physics from galaxy surveys.

2024 New Horizons in Physics Prize

Laura M. Perez

Universidad de Chile

Paola Pinilla

University College London

Nienke van der Marel

Leiden Observatory

Til Birnstiel

Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen

For the prediction, discovery, and modeling of dust traps in young circumstellar disks, solving a long-standing problem in planet formation.

2024 New Horizons in Mathematics Prize

Roland Bauerschmidt

New York University

For outstanding contributions to probability theory and the development of renormalisation group techniques.

Michael Groechenig

University of Toronto

For contributions to the theory of rigid local systems and applications of p-adic integration to mirror symmetry and the fundamental lemma.

Angkana Ruland

University of Bonn

For contributions to applied analysis, in particular the analysis of microstructure in solid-solid phase transitions and the theory of inverse problems.

2024 Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize

Hannah Larson

University of California, Berkeley

(PhD Stanford University 2022)

For advances in Brill-Noether theory and the geometry of the moduli space of curves.

Laura Monk

University of Bristol

(PhD University of Strasbourg 2021)

For advancing our understanding of random hyperbolic surfaces of large genus.

Mayuko Yamashita

Kyoto University

(PhD University of Tokyo 2022)

For contributions to mathematical physics, index theory.

About The Breakthrough Prize

For the 12th year, the Breakthrough Prize, renowned as the "Oscars of Science," recognizes the world's top scientists. Each prize is $3 million and presented in the fields of Life Sciences, Fundamental Physics and Mathematics. In addition, up to three New Horizons in Physics Prizes, up to three New Horizons in Mathematics Prizes and up to three Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prizes are given out to early-career researchers each year. Laureates attend a gala award ceremony designed to celebrate their achievements and inspire the next generation of scientists.

The Breakthrough Prizes were founded by Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Julia and Yuri Milner, and Anne Wojcicki and have been sponsored by foundations established by them. Selection Committees composed of previous Breakthrough Prize laureates in each field choose the winners. Information on the Breakthrough Prize is available at breakthroughprize.org.

SOURCE Breakthrough Prize
The Business Research Company's global market reports are now updated with the latest market sizing information for the year 2023 and forecasted to 2032

LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As per The Business Research Company, the global business travel accident insurance market is set for remarkable growth, with projections indicating an increase from $4.95 billion in 2022 to $6.03 billion in 2023, reflecting a substantial compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.8%. Looking ahead, the business travel accident insurance market size is anticipated to surge to $13.47 billion by 2027, driven by an impressive CAGR of 22.2%. This growth is underpinned by the forces of globalization, a surge in business travel, and the expanding volume of corporate conferences and events.

Technology-Driven Innovation

Major players in the business travel accident insurance market are placing a strong emphasis on technology-driven platforms to enhance and elevate their service offerings. These platforms enhance accessibility, customization, and operational efficiency for travelers, enabling industry participants to deliver seamless digital interactions. This includes tailored alerts, data-driven personalization, and streamlined claims processing through automation. A prime example is Battleface, a UK-based travel insurance provider, which in 2023, introduced a cutting-edge platform known as Robin Assist. This global, API-driven insurtech platform offers multilingual, 24/7 customer support for travel insurance. Operating on a cloud-based infrastructure, it seamlessly integrates with existing systems and technologies. Robin Assist provides a comprehensive array of services, including risk assessment, claims management, and emergency assistance, catering to insurance carriers, brokers, managing general agents (MGAs), and other industry stakeholders.

Learn More On The Business Travel Accident Insurance Market Report  https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/business-travel-accident-insurance-global-market-report

Business Travel Accident Insurance Market Segmentation: Diverse Opportunities

The global business travel accident insurance market is categorized into various segments:

By Type: Single Trip Coverage, Annual Multi-Trip Coverage, and Other Types. By Distribution Channels Type: Encompassing Insurance Companies, Insurance Brokers, Banks, Insurance Aggregators, and Other Distribution Channels. End User Type: Serving Corporations, Government Entities, International Travelers, and Employees.

The most promising opportunities within the business travel accident insurance market's segmentation are expected to arise from the annual multi-trip coverage segment, projected to achieve $4,649.12 million in global annual sales by 2027.

Request A Free Sample Of The Business Travel Accident Insurance Market Report  https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/sample.aspx?id=8114&type=smp

Regional Dynamics: North America Takes the Lead

In 2022, North America emerged as the largest region in the business travel accident insurance market, accounting for 35.1% of the total market share. It was followed by Western Europe and other regions. Looking ahead, the fastest-growing regions in the business travel accident insurance market are anticipated to be Asia-Pacific and North America, signaling promising prospects in these areas.

The Business Travel Accident Insurance Global Market Report 2023 serves as a vital tool for businesses operating in the travel insurance sector. This comprehensive report offers valuable insights into business travel accident insurance market trends, growth projections, and emerging opportunities, enabling companies to formulate informed strategies and make data-driven decisions. It provides a deep understanding of the competitive landscape, technological advancements, and evolving customer preferences, allowing businesses to tailor their services to meet the evolving needs of travelers. Moreover, the business travel accident insurance market report equips industry players with the knowledge needed to navigate an increasingly dynamic and competitive marketplace, fostering innovation and excellence in their service provisions.

View More Similar Market Reports:

Insurance Global Market Report 2023

https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/insurance-global-market-report

Insurance, Reinsurance And Insurance Brokerage Global Market Report 2023

https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/insurance-reinsurance-and-insurance-brokerage-global-market-report

Insurance Agencies Global Market Report 2023

https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/insurance-agencies-global-market-report

Interested to know more about The Business Research Company?

The Business Research Company has published over 6500+ detailed industry reports, spanning over 3000+ market segments and 60 geographies. The reports draw on 1,500,000 datasets, extensive secondary research, and exclusive insights from interviews with industry leaders.

The World's Most Comprehensive Database

The Global Market Model, The Business Research Company's flagship product, is a market intelligence platform covering various macroeconomic indicators and metrics across 58 geographies and 27 industries. The Global Market Model covers multi-layered datasets that help its users make better strategic decisions.

Contact Information

The Business Research Company

Europe: +44 207 1930 708

Asia: +91 8897263534

Americas: +1 315 623 0293

Email: [email protected]

Follow Us On:

LinkedIn: https://in.linkedin.com/company/the-business-research-company

Twitter: https://twitter.com/tbrc_info

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBusinessResearchCompany

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC24_fI0rV8cR5DxlCpgmyFQ

Blog: https://blog.tbrc.info/

Healthcare Blog: https://healthcareresearchreports.com/

Global Market Model: https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/global-market-model

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1751581/tbrc_logo.jpg

SOURCE The Business Research Company
The bill ensures that, if patients with serious mental illness have already completed a prior authorization for their prescribed antipsychotic medication in the past 12 months, they won't have to undergo additional re-authorizations for a refill. Prior authorization is a process whereby insurance companies must approve a clinician-prescribed medicine, procedure or test before a patient can get coverage.

The Alliance for Patient Access, the California Access Coalition and the Psychiatric Physicians Alliance of California thank Assembly Members Jacqui Irwin and Sharon Quirk-Silva and applaud the California State Legislature for passing AB 1437 with wide bipartisan support.

"AB 1437 is a straightforward, transformational step in ensuring patients remain stable and retain access to their already approved medications," said Rimal Bera, MD, chairman of the Alliance for Patient Access' Mental Health Working Group. "Arbitrary insurance barriers burden both patients and providers and often serve to destabilize the most vulnerable. I'm encouraged that the legislature has recognized this and taken steps to ensure appropriate mental health care for Californians. AfPA and our Mental Health Working Group urges the Governor to sign this important piece of legislation."

"The California Access Coalition has led a coalition of cosponsors and supporters for several years and we are thrilled to get to this point in the legislative process. We remain committed to advancing policies that ensure that patients have more timely access to needed medications. We urge the Governor to sign this important bill," said Dr. Le Ondra Clark Harvey, executive director of the California Access Coalition.

"AB 1437 avoids the bad outcomes that inevitably occur when you don't get the right medication, at the right time, to the right patient. Psychiatrists strongly support this legislation," said Randall Hagar, a legislative advocate and policy advisor at the Psychiatric Physicians Alliance of California.

Supporting Serious Mental Illness Patients in California

A serious mental illness is a mental, behavioral or emotional disorder that places a serious impairment on a patient's ability to participate in daily life. Major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder are all types of serious mental illnesses.

Treating patients with serious mental illness in a timely manner and providing them with the support they need can help them maintain stability and quality of life. Adherence is critical for these patients. But the slightest delay in receiving prescribed treatment  especially treatment that is ongoing  can disrupt care and undermine the trust between patient and health care provider.

The Harm of Prior Authorization

Excessive utilization management tactics, such as prior authorization, can prevent patients from accessing the treatment they need in a timely manner. Completing a prior authorization can take days, even weeks, with no guarantee that a patient's authorization will be approved. Patients may go without their medication for long stretches during the authorization approval process, and then they still may be unable to access the right treatment if their approval is denied.

About the Alliance for Patient Access

The Alliance for Patient Access is a national network of policy-minded health care providers who advocate for patient-centered care.

About the California Access Coalition

The California Access Coalition is a network of local and state behavioral health organizations that advocate to eliminate barriers that keep Californians from accessing medication and behavioral health treatment.

About the Psychiatric Physicians Alliance of California

The Psychiatric Physicians Alliance of California is a network dedicated to serving the interests and needs of psychiatrists throughout the state while advocating for sound and equitable mental health care for all Californians.

SOURCE Alliance for Patient Access; California Access Coalition; Psychiatric Physicians Alliance of California
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has held a meeting with Korean Minister of Lands, Infrastructure and Transport Won Hee-ryong and representatives of Korean business.

During the meeting, the Head of state conveyed gratitude to the Government of the Republic of Korea for the decision to provide Ukraine with financial support in the amount of $2.3 billion for post-war reconstruction.

"I think this will give an impetus to the development of Ukrainian infrastructure," Zelenskyy said and added that the active work of representatives of Korean business in the Ukrainian market and participation in the implementation of projects in the fields of nuclear and renewable energy, mechanical engineering, automotive industry, lithium mining, oil refining, "green" metallurgy is important for Ukraine, railway transport, etc.

"It is important that they [Korean business] feel my personal support. We are interested in your deeper involvement in the Ukrainian economy," he said.

According to the President, such cooperation will allow Ukraine to provide new jobs and new economic growth both for itself and for the Republic of Korea.

Zelenskyy also expressed gratitude to the Korean side for supporting the initiatives of the First Lady of Ukraine when she was on a visit to the Republic of Korea.

In turn, the Minister of Lands, Infrastructure and Transport of Korea, Won Hee-ryong, stressed that Korea stands for peace and protection of Ukrainian sovereignty, as well as for countering the illegal invasion of Russia.

He also noted that the visit of representatives of the Korean government and business to Kyiv is a direct demonstration of support for Ukraine.

In addition, the Minister expressed conviction that bilateral cooperation can be expanded in various areas of common interests.

As the presidential press-service reported, the Agreement between the Government of Ukraine and the Government of the Republic of Korea on loans from the Economic Development Co-operation Fund (EDCF) was signed in the presence of the President of Ukraine and the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport of the Republic of Korea. The Agreement envisions opportunities for the provision of subsidized loans for the implementation of projects in Ukraine with the participation of Korean companies. First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine, Minister of Economy Yulia Svyrydenko signed the Agreement on behalf of Ukraine, while Ambassador of the Republic of Korea in Ukraine Kim Hyung-tae signed it on behalf of Korea.
This year's agenda spotlights industry shifts and burning questions. Yoav Barel, Managing Director at Sunrize and Chairman of Chatbot Summit, notes, "We have many questions to tackle: How to provide natural language experiences to customers and employees? Can LLMs be mastered? Building trust with AI solutions? Industry leaders and experts will address these during the event".

Delegates will hear from a world-class lineup of speakers at Chatbot Summit as they try to bring clarity on those topics. Speakers include leaders at UK household brands, such as British Telecom, Mercedes-Benz, UBS and Miele, and experts from top tech companies such as AWS, Google, Microsoft, Meta and Rasa. Amongst the highlighted speakers are:

Chief Digital Officer, Consumer - Digital at BT Group

Chief Intelligence Officer at McCann Worldgroup .

Head of Speech Technology #HeyMercedes

Co-founder & CTO at Rasa

This year's Chatbot Summit spans two dynamic days. The first offers exclusive workshops led by industry experts. The second combines an expo and conference, featuring networking, 1:1 meetings, product showcases and a startup competition. The grand finale: the legendary 'Bots After Dark' party, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Barel concludes: "Since our foundation, we've eagerly anticipated this moment. With the rise of Generative AI and LLMs, the inevitability of conversing with AI-powered bots for business is clear. However, many brands and UK organizations haven't embraced this tech yet. Chatbot Summit aims to foster collaboration to bridge this gap and accelerate Conversational & Generative AI adoption. Our speakers, partners, startups, and delegates play a vital role in this mission, together for the better".

Join us at one of the most exciting tech events of the year: Chatbot Summit at ICC ExCeL London. Don't miss out, get your pass today at www.chatbotsummit.com !

About Sunrize

Since 2016, Sunrize has driven the growth of natural language AI experiences through Chatbot Summit. Our event fuels collaboration and innovation among industry leaders, academia, tech giants, and startups. https://www.chatbotsummit.com/

Media Contact

Mila Chipchev

[email protected]

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210752/Chatbot_Summit.jpg

SOURCE Chatbot Summit
Popular Chicken Salad Concept Answers Fans' Craving with Newest Menu Innovation

ATLANTA, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Chicken Salad Chick, the nation's only fast casual chicken salad restaurant concept, announced today the launch of its brand-new menu item, The Chick Melt. The brand's first melted specialty sandwich offering, The Chick Melt marks Chicken Salad Chick's defining stamp on a chicken salad melt. The sandwich features each guest's choice of one of Chicken Salad Chick's 12+ chicken salad flavors paired with provolone cheese, all atop a toasted, buttery croissant. Chicken Salad Chick's top-of-the-line toaster technology harmonizes the balance of the sandwich's golden-brown, crispy exterior and melted, cheesy interior, naturally elevating the brand's famous made-from-scratch chicken salad flavors to a whole new level. Guests may also select pimento cheese in place of chicken salad for their Chick Melt, all of which are served as a meal with a choice of a fresh side, soup or scoop plus a pickle and a cookie. The new menu item is inviting and comforting, fulfilling cravings for Chick fans across the country. Starting Sept. 12, the new product will be served at all 240+ locations.

"It's our goal that The Chick Melt creates a moment of joy for guests who bite into it and that it lives up to their high expectations of Chicken Salad Chick, which is why we tested it in select locations before adding it to our menu," said Tom Carr, chief marketing officer, who leads Chicken Salad Chick's product development team. "We even had guests describe it as 'life changing,' and there's a reason why. This sandwich checks all the boxes! It's toasty, cheesy, melty, and of course features any of our made-from-scratch chicken salads. We're now excited to launch The Chick Melt across the brand."

The Chick Melt marks Chicken Salad Chick's defining stamp on a chicken salad melt. Post this

While customers may be familiar with patty melts and tuna melts, Chicken Salad Chick is calling The Chick Melt 'The Melt of Melts,' a unique offering found at the nation's only chicken salad concept. As part of this new menu item launch, Chicken Salad Chick guests can expect to experience the Southern hospitality that Chicken Salad Chick is known for with the following specials and giveaways:

Make Patty Melt Move over, Patty, there's a new Chick in town! From Sept. 18  23 all guests named Patty, Patrick, Patricia, or the like can receive a free Chick Melt at all Chicken Salad Chick locations.**



There's Nothing Fishy About The Chick Melt! Forget the tuna melt breath and visit participating Chicken Salad Chick locations from Oct. 25  27 where guests can exchange cans of tuna for a free Chick Melt.** All cans collected will be donated to a homeless shelter or food bank chosen by each location. The list of participating locations will be featured on ChickenSaladChick.com.



"We hope this newest addition to our menu not only satisfies the palates of our guests, but also demonstrates Chicken Salad Chick's unwavering commitment to our purpose of spreading joy, enriching lives, and serving others," said Scott Deviney, CEO of Chicken Salad Chick. "The Chick Melt represents our brand's innovation while staying true to our roots. It is a product of listening to our guests and remaining fully committed to serving quality, delicious meals."

For more information on the brand, visit http://www.chickensaladchick.com. Follow Chicken Salad Chick on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and trends.

*Guests must present personal identification. Valid for dine-in orders only. Guests must redeem their Chick Melt at the time of their donation. Limit one free Chick Melt per guest.

About Chicken Salad Chick

Chicken Salad Chick serves full-flavored, Southern-style chicken salad made from scratch and served from the heart. With more than a dozen original chicken salad flavors as well as fresh side salads, gourmet soups, signature sandwiches and delicious desserts, Chicken Salad Chick's robust menu is a perfect fit for any guest. Founded in Auburn, Alabama, by Stacy and Kevin Brown, in 2008, Chicken Salad Chick has grown to more than 240+ restaurants in 17 states. Today, under the leadership of Scott Deviney and the Chicken Salad Chick team, the brand is continuing its rapid expansion with both franchise and company locations. Chicken Salad Chick has received numerous accolades including rankings in the 2023 Entrepreneur Franchise 500, Franchise Times' Fast & Serious for the third consecutive year, Fast Casual.com's top Movers and Shakers from 2018 to 2023, QSR's Best Franchise Deals in 2019, 2020 and 2022, and Franchise Business Review's Top Food Franchises in 2020. See www.chickensaladchick.com for additional information.

Contact:

Isabella Bobillo

Fish Consulting

954-927-0200

[email protected]

SOURCE Chicken Salad Chick
FORT MYERS, Fla., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Chico's FAS, Inc. (NYSE: CHS) ("Company" or "Chico's FAS") today announced it will be participating in the Wells Fargo 6th Annual Consumer Conference, to be held in Dana Point, CA.

Chief Executive Officer and President Molly Langenstein is scheduled to participate in a fireside chat on Thursday, September 21, 2023, at 8:45 am PDT. The fireside chat will be webcast live and available following the event in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.chicosfas.com.

ABOUT CHICO'S FAS, INC.

Chico's FAS is a Florida-based fashion company founded in 1983 on Sanibel Island, FL. The Company reinvented the fashion retail experience by creating fashion communities anchored by service, which put the customer at the center of everything we do. As one of the leading fashion retailers in North America, Chico's FAS is a company of three unique brands  Chico's, White House Black Market, and Soma  each operating in their own white space, founded by women, led by women, providing solutions that millions of women say give them confidence and joy.

Our Company has a passion for fashion, and each day, we provide clothing, shoes and accessories, intimate apparel, and expert styling in our brick-and-mortar boutiques, digital online boutiques, and through StyleConnect, the Company's customized, branded, digital styling tool that enables customers to conveniently shop wherever, whenever, and however they prefer.

As of July 29, 2023, the Company operated 1,258 stores in the U.S. and sold merchandise through 58 international franchise locations in Mexico and through two domestic franchise locations in airports. The Company's merchandise is also available at www.chicos.com, www.chicosofftherack.com, www.whbm.com, and www.soma.com.

To learn more about Chico's FAS, please visit our corporate website at www.chicosfas.com. The information on our corporate website is not, and shall not be deemed to be, a part of this press release or incorporated into our federal securities law filings.

Investor Relations Contact:

Julie MacMedan

Chico's FAS, Inc.

(239) 346-4384

[email protected]

Chico's FAS, Inc.  11215 Metro Parkway  Fort Myers, Florida 33966  (239) 277-6200

SOURCE Chico's FAS, Inc.
Steve Kelly and GALE Join Chili's to Revamp the Brand's CRM Strategy and More

DALLAS, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT) today announced the additions of industry veteran Steve Kelly as vice president of marketing and award-winning business agency GALE as CRM agency of record. Both moves allow Chili's Grill & Bar to serve Guests in a more compelling way as the brand revamps its digital presence.

Chili's Grill & Bar Vice President of Marketing Steve Kelly (PRNewsfoto/Brinker International Payroll Company, L.P.)

Kelly, known for his strong digital strategy and creativity during his more than 15 years with Yum! Brands, will oversee key pillars of the Chili's marketing strategy including CRM, loyalty, digital experience, third-party delivery, and paid media strategy and execution.

"Steve is one of the most talented leaders I've worked with, and his diverse skillset will accelerate our marketing strategy," said George Felix, Chili's Chief Marketing Officer. "Being a relevant and distinctive brand in culture requires a 360-degree focus, and his experience across multiple verticals makes him a natural choice for this role. Additionally, his personality and passion as a people leader are the perfect fit for our ChiliHead culture."

Chili's CRM strategy and execution, as well as a revamp of the My Chili's Rewards loyalty program are a key focus for Kelly, and GALE, this year's Adweek Breakthrough Media Agency of the Year, will provide its expertise in the space as agency of record. GALE's data-driven approach will bring deeper personalization and a more modern feel to Chili's customer interactions as well as an optimization of all activity to enable more relevant messaging to the Chili's customer.

"Chili's is an iconic brand and we're hugely excited to join their journey of transformation at such a pivotal time," said GALE Managing Director Andrew Noel. "There's never been a more important time for brands to enrich the experiences of audiences, and the Chili's team recognizes the true power of CRM to transform a business that will win market share."

GALE's work with Chili's will span strategy, creative, email and digital activity, providing data and insights to drive CRM activity in a way that aligns with the brand's marketing strategy.

"At Chili's, each Guest interaction presents a chance to build a relationship that turns into repeat visits," Kelly said. "GALE's proven track record in leveraging CRM and loyalty to drive growth made them the perfect choice for this partnership. With success stories across Chipotle, H&R Block, and Hard Rock, GALE has demonstrated its ability to deliver exceptional results for renowned brands."

About Chili's Grill & Bar

Hi, welcome to Chili's! We're a leader in the casual dining industry and the flagship brand of Dallas-based Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT). We're known for our Big Mouth Burgers, full-on sizzling Fajitas, Crispy Chicken Crispers and hand-shaken Margaritas. We take our food seriously  but not ourselves  because dining out should feel like a celebration even if there is nothing to celebrate. Our passion is making every Guest feel special, and every day, our ChiliHeads make it their job to spread #ChilisLove across our more than 1,600 restaurants in 29 countries and two territories. And Chili's cares. We host local Give Back Events to support kids, education and hunger and have raised more than $100 million benefitting St. Jude Children's Research Hospital through generous Guest donations. Find more information about us at chilis.com, follow us on Twitter or Instagram , like us on Facebook or join us on TikTok .

About Gale

GALE is a Business Agency. Founded in 2014, the agency currently has offices in New York, Singapore, Toronto, Denver, Los Angeles, London, Austin, Kansas City and Bengaluru. GALE has received top industry awards including Ad Age's A-List, Ad Age's Data & Analytics Agency of the Year, Adweek's Fastest Growing Agency, the Grand Effie and Adweek's Breakthrough Media Agency of the Year. For information on GALE, visit: https://gale.agency/ .

SOURCE Brinker International Payroll Company, L.P.
DUBLIN, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Chinese Passenger Vehicle OEMs' Global Expansion Strategies" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This research service outlines the global expansion strategies of Chinese passenger vehicle original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), focusing particularly on China's exports to overseas markets and production capabilities in offshore locations.

China's automotive industry, including Chinese OEMs, has been witnessing rapid electric vehicle (EV) sales, aligned with the Mega Trend of global electric powertrain adoption. 2022 was a particularly high-growth year for the Chinese automotive industry.

Factors like the Paris Agreement, global environmental goals, and corresponding zero-emission targets will continue to boost market demand for EVs, driving more countries to increase EV adoption. As one of the major contributors to the development of EVs, the growth opportunities for Chinese OEMs will continue to increase.

The automotive value chain, production, dealerships, distribution, and aftermarket services of Chinese OEMs in overseas markets will witness further advancements. Moreover, collaborations and partnerships will continue to strengthen the global expansion strategies of Chinese OEMs.



The study provides a snapshot of the export market, covering export volume, average export price, export segment by powertrain, export share by OEMs, and major exporting countries. The study also covers the brand strategies and key insights of Chinese OEMs in markets in the Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America, South America, the Middle East, and India, along with the regulatory policies and tax incentives in specific regions.

It benchmarks key Chinese OEMs entering different markets and provides region-wise case studies, identifying the factors restraining and driving the market growth.



Key Features

To provide a tactical overview of the export strategies of Chinese PV OEMs and analyze the impact on export sales

To offer in-depth export forecasts for select Chinese PV OEMs for 2017 and 2025

To assess the opportunities for Chinese OEMs looking at overseas markets

To provide a brief understanding of the changes in the competitive landscape and the implications of these changes in the short and the medium terms

To outline the international dealership strategies of Chinese PV OEMs and offer an overview of the chief regions for export activities

To determine the key success factors of Chinese PV OEMs in export markets

Key Topics Covered:

1. Strategic Imperatives

Why is it Increasingly Difficult to Grow?

The Strategic Imperative

The Impact of the Top 3 Strategic Imperatives on the Chinese Passenger Vehicle (PV) Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs)

Growth Opportunities Fuel the Growth Pipeline Engine

2. Growth Opportunity Analysis

Scope of Analysis

Segmentation

Key Competitors

Growth Drivers

Growth Restraints

Key Question This Study Will Answer

3. Chinese PV Export Market

PV Export Market Overview

Top PV Export Regions and Countries

PV Export Market by Powertrain

Competitive Environment

PV OEMs Export Market Share

SWOT Analysis

4. Chinese PV OEMs' Global Expansion Strategies

Snapshot of International Operations

Top Growth Strategies of Key OEMs

Key Partnerships

Case Study - Chery's Export Activities

5. Chinese PV OEMs' Branding Strategies

Branding Strategies

Key Market Forces Drive Chinese OEMs to Apply Multi-brand Strategies

Case Study - The Chinese Government's Key Policies and Tax Incentives

Case Study - Route to Initial Public Offering (IPO)

Case Study - EV Equity Investment

Case Study - ASEAN Governments' Key Policies and Tax Incentives

6. Chinese PV Export Market-Forecast to 2030

Growth Metrics

Forecast Assumptions

7. Chinese PV Export Unit Shipment Forecast

Forecast Analysis

8. Chinese PV OEMs' Overseas Expansion - Asia-Pacific

Key Penetration Countries

Benchmarking of Chinese OEMs Entering the Asia-Pacific

Key Strategies

Key Insights

Case Study - BYD's Successful Entry into the Japanese Market

9. Chinese PV OEMs' Overseas Expansion - Europe

Key Penetration Countries

Benchmarking of Chinese OEMs Entering Europe

Key Strategies

Key Insights

Case Study - Nio's Successful Entry into the European Market

10. Chinese PV OEMs' Overseas Expansion-Middle East

Key Penetration Countries

Benchmarking of Chinese OEMs Entering the Middle East

Key Strategies

Key Insights

Case Study - SAIC's Successful Entry into the Middle Eastern Market

11. Chinese PV OEMs' Overseas Expansion-North America

Key Penetration Countries

Benchmarking of Chinese OEMs Entering North America

Key Strategies

Key Insights

Case Study - SAIC's Successfully Entry into the Mexican Market

12. Chinese PV OEMs' Overseas Expansion-South America

Key Penetration Countries

Benchmarking of Chinese OEMs Entering South America

Key Strategies

Key Insights

Case Study - Chery's Successful Entrance into the South American Market

13. Chinese PV OEMs' Overseas Expansion-India

Key Penetration Countries

Benchmarking of Chinese OEMs Entering India

Key Strategies

Case Study - SAIC's Successful Entrance into the Indian Market

14. Growth Opportunity Universe

Growth Opportunity 1 - Electrification, Global Environmental Protection, and Zero-emission Goals

Growth Opportunity 2 - Integration of the Automotive Value Chain

Growth Opportunity 3 - Improved Technical Competitiveness and Transformation to Intelligent Vehicles

Growth Opportunity 4 - Regulatory Preferences and Local Demand

Growth Opportunity 5 - Branding Strategy

15. Appendix

Table of Acronyms Used

16. Next Steps

Your Next Steps

List of Exhibits

Legal Disclaimer

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/8j8wvz

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]

For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900

U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Research and Markets
95% of employees laud CliniComp for making new employees feel welcome and 86% agree it is a great place to work

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CliniComp, the pioneer in high-performing, reliable electronic health record (EHR) solutions, achieved certification as a Great Place to Work, which recognizes employers who create an outstanding employee experience. The certification is based on a two-step process that relies on confidentially surveying employees and completing a questionnaire about company culture and benefits.

Great Place to Work is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation. The certification recognizes employers who create an outstanding employee experience. According to the company's research, job seekers are 4.5x more likely to find a great boss at a certified great workplace.

"We are honored to be Great Place to Work-Certified, a reflection of our dedicated employees and the collaborative culture we have built," says Ramona Powell, Senior Vice President, People Operations, at CliniComp. "It is gratifying to see the results of the survey  86% of our employees view CliniComp as a great place to work and 95% highlight that we make new employees feel welcome. This certification further validates our focus on doing meaningful work in a close-knit environment where people can feel the impact of their contributions. We offer great benefits for employees and their families, including fully paid healthcare, wellness program, health advocacy and best-in-class 401K matching contributions. Our CEO is dedicated to providing best outcomes for everyone, both personally and professionally."

CliniComp's core values drive its approach to everyday business through Transformation, Partnership, Passion, and Integrity. As a pioneer of the industry, CliniComp strives for continual advancement toward better, more effective healthcare IT solutions. The company sees technology as a gateway to freedom for clinicians to provide the best possible care; to financial stability and vitality; to happier, healthier patient populations; to a better, simpler healthcare experience. As a full business partner with clients, CliniComp makes clients' success their success, supporting clients every step of the way.

A 40-year-old private company, CliniComp is taking healthcare IT into new territories. The company is unwavering in its commitment to providing the most efficient, innovative, intelligent IT solutions. As passionate innovators, the company believes in using the power of technology to enhance the human experience. With unparalleled service, reliable performance, and custom software, CliniComp seeks to elevate industry standards and provide a better healthcare experience for all.

Our highly valued teams come from all industries, from engineers to clinicians to designers. To join us, visit CliniComp Careers.

About CliniComp

CliniComp is an innovative technology pioneer serving customers globally for almost 40 years with continual advancement in delivering cutting-edge healthcare IT solutions. The CliniComp solution is an integrated web-based electronic health record (EHR) with an architectural framework conquering ever-evolving interoperability, scalability, adaptability, and real-time performance data challenges. Designed by clinicians for clinicians, CliniComp's EHR provides an intuitive and seamless user interface and has earned an unrivaled record of performance and reliability with no planned downtime for decades in the most complex high-acuity hospital environments. With 24/7 global customer service, CliniComp offers fast deployment, competitive cost of ownership, and all-inclusive support. For more information, please visit clinicomp.com and follow us on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).

Media Contact:

Katlyn Nesvold

Amendola Communications for CliniComp

[email protected]

SOURCE CliniComp
Indian data centre industry on track to reach 1.318GW by 2024, with Colt DCS set to become a pivotal market player in enhancing the nation's digital infrastructure along its digital transformation journey



NAVI MUMBAI, India, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Colt Data Centre Services (DCS), a global provider of hyperscale and large enterprise data centre solutions, today announced the launch of its first data centre in India. The flagship Navi Mumbai data centre marks Colt DCS' strategic expansion and commitment to supporting the increasing demand of hyperscale cloud service providers and large enterprises businesses in the fast-growing Indian data centre market.

India's digital demand has soared in recent years. According to the leading real estate consulting companies, India's demand for data centre capacity will reach 1.4 GW by 2025. Navi Mumbai accounts for 50% of data centre capacity.

Colt DCS' Navi Mumbai Data Centre provides customers with tremendous flexibility and scalability given its significant land parcel of 15 acres capable of supporting 120MW of IT power capacity. The flexible and scalable design allows Colt DCS to meet the quickly changing demands of emerging technologies and use cases such as generative artificial intelligence, high performance computing, machine learning and other computer intensive cloud applications that depend on high power density solutions with efficient cooling.

This flexibility is supported by robust infrastructure. The data centre boasts a highly resilient 220kV GIS substation onsite with LILO configuration. The data centre also provides multi-layered security with combination of hardened physical parameters, access control and 24x7 surveillance. The site has undergone a comprehensive TVRA assessment and has been categorized as a low risk site. Colt DCS has over 25 years of experience supporting mission-critical workloads based on its award-winning Operations and Service Management capabilities.

This project was also recently awarded with a "Platinum" Rating by IGBC  Green Data Centre (India Green Building Council). This accreditation further underpins Colt DCS' commitment to sustainability and innovation. Colt DCS' draws 100% renewable green power from the utility company. These initiatives aligns with Colt DCS' dedication to global environmental responsibility and will ensure customers achieve their own sustainability goals.

Safety is a top business priority for Colt DCS and the data centre upholds the highest health and safety standards for its employees. The implementation of rigorous safety regulation has resulted in Colt DCS receiving the Safety Excellence Award from the Safety Engineers Association (SEA).

"Colt DCS' entry into the Indian market reaffirms our commitment to become the leading customer-centric data centre operator in the industry," said Niclas Sanfridsson, CEO Colt DCS. "Our innovative and sustainable approach, coupled with our dedication to safety and reliability, positions Colt DCS as the partner of choice for hyperscale cloud service providers and enterprises expanding their reach in India. Our strategic expansion is only set to continue with new sites expected across the country as we look to provide high quality data centre services."

Pratap Mane, Country Head of India at Colt DCS added: "We are now uniquely placed in the Mumbai market to address the demand of Hyperscale Cloud Service providers and large Enterprise particularly from Banking and Financial Services industry. Our solutions are designed to support complex applications requiring scalable power, processing, cooling and security. The first phase of the Mumbai Data Centre has commenced with 22MW and an available capacity of 18MW of IT power capacity. Further, we have aggressive plans to expand into major cities across India to cater to growing market demand."

About Colt DCS

Colt DCS provides true service and operational excellence in the sustainable design, build, delivery and operational management of hyperscale data centres across Europe and APAC. We provide data centre solutions to hyperscale and large enterprise customers across 16 state-of-the-art-carrier neutral data centres spanning 8 cities.

Our hyperscale and colocation solutions allow our customers freedom to plan effectively for the growth of their business, knowing that their data centre strategy is ready for the demands of tomorrow.

We have over 25 years of experience in the industry, delivering on our vision of being the most trusted and customer centric data centre operator in the market. We put environmental awareness at the heart of everything we do because we know it's the right thing to do for our planet. That's why we're taking the ownership to reduce our environmental impact globally and make sustainability a key strategic driver.

As part of our sustainability journey, Colt DCS has set comprehensive near- and long- term Science Based Targets to cut our emissions in line with the SBTi's latest Net Zero Standard

www.coltdatacentres.net

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1603343/3986228/Colt_DCS_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Colt Data Centre Services (Colt DCS)
CHICAGO, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The report "Commercial Refrigeration Market by Product Type, Refrigerant Type, Application (Food Service, Food & Beverage Production, Food & Beverage Retail), End Use (Supermarkets & Hypermarkets, Hotels & Restaurants, Bakeries), & Region - Global Forecast to 2028", is projected to grow from USD 45.6 billion in 2023 to USD 62.7 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 5.8%. The expansion of retail chains, supermarkets, and convenience stores on a global scale drive the demand for commercial refrigeration systems. The requirement of a reliable and efficient refrigeration infrastructure to preserve perishable goods and meet customer demands is expected to boost the market growth.

Browse in-depth TOC on "Commercial Refrigeration Market"

270  Tables

43  Figures

245  Pages

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=189269432

By product type, the refrigerated display case is projected to account for the fastest-growing segment of the commercial refrigeration market during the forecast period.

The refrigerated display case segment, by product type, is projected to be the fastest-growing market during the forecast period. These cases are designed to showcase products in an appealing and visually enticing manner, encouraging customers to make purchases. The global rise in the number of supermarkets, grocery stores, and other food retail outlets is expected to create attractive opportunities in the commercial refrigeration market.

By refrigerant type, the hydrocarbons segment is estimated to account for the second-largest share of commercial refrigeration market during forecast period.

Hydrocarbons (HCs) are natural, non-toxic refrigerants that have minimal impact on ozone depletion and global warming compared to many synthetic refrigerants. Hydrocarbon gases, such as propane, isobutane, pentane, and isopentane, are used as refrigerants for cooling in industrial, commercial, and domestic applications. Their significant role in the shift toward more environmentally friendly cooling solutions, contribute to the overall market growth.

By application, the food & beverage distribution is projected to account for the fastest-growing segment of the commercial refrigeration market during the forecast period.

Commercial refrigeration is also employed in food & beverage distribution to provide safe & efficient storage, transportation, and delivery of perishable products. Frozen food products, such as frozen fruits, vegetables, meats, and ready-to-eat meals, require specialized freezing & refrigeration during distribution to ensure they remain frozen until they reach consumers. These factors are expected to boost the market growth between 2023 and 2028.

Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=189269432

By end use, the convenience stores segment is projected to account for the second fastest-growing segment of the commercial refrigeration market during the forecast period.

The advent of refrigeration has allowed convenience stores to store packaged foods & beverages for extended periods without spoilage. The rising number of convenience stores can be attributed to the increasing preference for packaged food items and beverages and the rising per capita income of consumers. The growth of the food preservatives market in China and India is also expected to contribute to the increased consumption of commercial refrigeration in convenience stores.

By region, Asia Pacific is estimated to account for the largest segment of commercial refrigeration market during 2023 to 2028.

Governments in the Asia Pacific region were implementing stricter regulations and standards related to refrigerants. Such regulations are released with the aim of decreasing ozone depletion and greenhouse gas emissions. This led to a shift toward using more environmentally friendly refrigerants and phasing out hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and other harmful substances Increasing economic growth and substantial investments in the consumer appliances industry drive the demand for commercial refrigeration in the region. Rising demand for food storage equipment, increasing urbanization, and growing consumer electronics are also driving the market.

The major players operating in the commercial refrigeration market include Daikin (Japan), Johnson Controls (US), Carrier (US), Dover (US), Baltimore Aircoil Company (US), Blue Star Limited (India), De Rigo Refrigeration (Italy), Fogel (Guatemala), Hussmann (US), Imbera (Mexico), KMW (Germany), Mayekawa Mfg. Co., Ltd. (Japan), Runte (China), SCM Frigo (Italy), True (US), Viessmann (Germany), Voltas (India), and others.

Browse Adjacent Market: Equipment Machine and Tooling Market Research Reports & Consulting

Related Reports:

Refrigerants Market - Global Forecast to 2028

Medical Refrigerators Market - Global Forecast to 2026

About MarketsandMarkets

MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report.

MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients.

Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes.

The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing.

Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry.

To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Contact:

Mr. Aashish Mehra

MarketsandMarkets INC.

630 Dundee Road

Suite 430

Northbrook, IL 60062

USA: +1-888-600-6441

Email: [email protected]

Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/commercial-refrigeration-market.asp

Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/

Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/commercial-refrigeration.asp

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660509/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE MarketsandMarkets
This Hispanic Heritage Month, Avocados From Mexico and Hispanic Star are offering support to avocado enthusiasts to pursue their culinary passions at Dallas College

DALLAS, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Avocados From Mexico is making Hispanic Heritage Month even better with the launch of its new scholarship program designed to support the next generation of Latino culinary talent. The number one selling avocado brand in the U.S. is teaming up with Hispanic Star , an organization that supports Hispanic advancement in the U.S. through jobs, education, health and gender equality, to launch the Spark the Good Scholarship Program at Dallas College , one of the largest community colleges in Texas.

The Spark The Good Scholarship Program will gift up to ten full-ride scholarships to avocado enthusiasts who are interested in receiving their Culinary Arts degree at Dallas College. Each recipient will be awarded full tuition and all needed supplies for the four-semester program at the college, allowing them to cultivate their passion for culinary arts and build a bright future in the industry.

"As a member of the Hispanic community, uplifting the next generation of Hispanic leaders is very important to me," said Alvaro Luque, President and CEO of Avocados From Mexico. "At Avocados From Mexico, we've built up our foodservice programs and partnerships over the past several years, and the Spark The Good Scholarship Program is a natural next step to nurture innovation within the industry. We are happy to support talented up-and-coming Hispanic chefs and empower them to become trailblazers in culinary and foodservice."

Avocados From Mexico proudly celebrates its Mexican origin, and all the good flavor and versatility that Mexican Hass avocados offer. And, the brand is headquartered in Dallas, Texas. That's why Avocados From Mexico is pleased to serve up its first-ever scholarship program in partnership with Dallas College to support culinary students during Hispanic Heritage Month.

"It is essential to recognize the economic and cultural contributions of Hispanics in the United States. Our community embodies prosperity, power and progress," said Claudia Romo Edelman, founder of Hispanic Star. "We are thrilled to team up with Avocados From Mexico, who share our vision of helping to support our Hispanic Stars, as there is no better way to help celebrate Hispanic culture than through food and love for avocados."

To learn more and apply for this ripe opportunity, students are invited to submit their application on Avocados From Mexico's website here between September 15 to October 15, 2023, the duration of Hispanic Heritage month.

To learn more about Avocados From Mexico, visit https://avocadosfrommexico.com , Facebook (facebook.com/avocadosfrommexico), Instagram ( @avocadosfrommexico ) or Twitter ( @AvosFromMexico ).

About Avocados From Mexico

Avocados From Mexico is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Mexican Hass Avocado Importers Association (MHAIA), formed for the purpose of advertising, promotion, public relations and research for all stakeholders of Avocados From Mexico . Under agreements, MHAIA and the Association of Avocado Exporting Producers & Packers of Mexico (APEAM) have combined resources to fund and manage Avocados From Mexico, with the intent to provide a focused, highly- effective and efficient marketing program in the United States. Avocados From Mexico is headquartered in Irving, Texas.

About the We Are All Human Foundation

The We Are All Human Foundation (WAAH) is a registered (501c3) non-profit. The WAAH's mission is to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion. The We Are All Human Foundation has mobilized more than 300 companies to create more inclusive environments and provide assistance to the underserved. The Hispanic Star is a brand that acts as a platform to unite businesses, non-profits, community leaders and celebrities to accelerate the advancement of Hispanics in the US and to improve perception by celebrating the incredible contributions of Latinos to the country's progress.

About Dallas College

Dallas College, formerly the Dallas County Community College District, was founded in 1965, and consists of seven campuses: Brookhaven, Cedar Valley, Eastfield, El Centro, Mountain View, North Lake and Richland. Dallas College offers online learning and serves more than 125,000 credit and continuing education students annually. Dallas College also offers dual credit for students in partner high schools and early college high schools throughout Dallas County. Students benefit from partnerships with local business leaders, school districts and four-year universities, and Dallas College offers associate degree and career/technical certificate programs in more than 100 areas of study, as well as a bachelor's degree in education. Based on annual enrollment, it is the largest community college in Texas.

Contact:

Ana Ambrosi

[email protected]

SOURCE Avocados From Mexico
TAMPA, Fla., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CPL, a full-service design firm serving public and private-sector clients for more than 48 years, is pleased to announce the addition of Ryan Daniels, AIA, NCARB, CM-BIM as Vice President and Florida Healthcare Practice Leader. In this pivotal role, he will facilitate CPL's expansion into the Florida healthcare market to address regional gaps in service and expertise.

Drawing from experience spanning two decades, Daniels will enhance CPL's healthcare practice and assemble a FL team. Post this Ryan Daniels, AIA, NCARB, CM-BIM joins CPL as Vice President and Florida Healthcare Practice Leader.

Drawing from a wealth of experience spanning more than two decades in client-focused, innovative design, Daniels will enhance CPL's existing healthcare practice, nurture robust client partnerships and assemble an agile team throughout Florida. His impressive portfolio encompasses the full spectrum of master planning and design for a wide range of inpatient and outpatient facilities; these include cancer, rehabilitation and surgery centers and hospitals across the United States. Counted among his noteworthy clients are Moffitt Cancer Center, AdventHealth, Lakeland Regional Health, Baptist Health Jax, BJC HealthCare and the Mercy healthcare system.

"Ryan's forward-thinking approach and in-depth healthcare experience align seamlessly with our mission to positively impact the communities we serve," remarked Timothy Knapp, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Executive Vice President and National Healthcare Practice Leader at CPL. "His collaborative nature will foster a dynamic culture, uniting diverse perspectives into future-ready design solutions."

Combining healthcare expertise with intensive co-creation, CPL's teams work alongside hospital leadership, providers and the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) to curate efficient spaces that promote holistic well-being. Under Daniels' leadership, the team will embrace sustainable design practices and technology-driven solutions that address Florida's distinct healthcare needs, benefiting providers, patients and families alike.

Daniels brings to CPL leadership history in a number of prominent healthcare design firms, with a track record of cultivating thriving studios and spurring learning and development through hands-on mentorship.

He holds dual degrees, a Bachelor of Architecture and a Bachelor of Design Arts from Drury University, and is a licensed architect in both Missouri and Florida. He also possesses a Certificate of Management in Building Information Modeling (CM-BIM) and maintains accreditation with the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB).

Actively engaged in several professional and community organizations throughout his career, including the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Board of Directors, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), AIA's Young Architects Forum and the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), Daniels also volunteers with the AIA and nonprofits such as the Academy of Architecture for Health (AAH), the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS), Habitat for Humanity and Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful. Furthermore, he will continue to serve as a Juror for the Nightingale Awards at the 2023 Healthcare Design Conference + Expo (HCD).

CPL looks forward to bringing Daniels' unique blend of design vision and extensive industry healthcare knowledge to clients in Florida and across the country.

About CPL

Founded in 1975, CPL is a 480-person multi-disciplined architecture, engineering and planning firm offering inspiring design services and enriching communities in 20 cities across six states. CPL specializes in the Community, Healthcare, Higher Education, K-12 Education and Transportation market sectors  providing architectural, interior design, civil engineering, buildings and structural engineering, planning, landscape architecture and 3D/virtual design services to a host of public and private clients. Visit www.CPLteam.com to learn more.

SOURCE CPL Architecture | Engineering | Planning
On Thursday, September 14, U.S. President Joe Biden announced the appointment of Penny Pritzker as the U.S. Special representative for the economic recovery of Ukraine, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.

It is noted that in this role, she will work with the Ukrainian government, the G7, the EU, international financial institutions, international partners, and one of our great assets  the American private sector  to help forge Ukraines future as a prosperous, secure, European democracy.

Special Representative Pritzker will drive efforts to shape donor priorities through the Multi-Agency Donor Coordination Platform to align them with Ukraines needs and to galvanize international partners to increase their support for Ukraine. She will also work closely with the government of Ukraine as it intensifies reforms needed to win the future, open export markets, mobilize foreign direct investment, and catalyze economic recovery.

The Department of State said that Special Representative Pritzkers extensive private sector experience, service as Secretary of Commerce, and deep personal connection to Ukraine and the Ukrainian diaspora make her uniquely qualified for this task.

Tracing their roots to the village of Velyki Pritsky outside of Kyiv, her family owned a grain store before emigrating the United States more than 100 years ago. Special Representative Pritzker is a deeply committed leader trusted across the political spectrum for her proven track record of delivering positive outcomes and results, the statement says.

Blinken noted that the appointment of a Special Representative demonstrates the U.S. commitment to strengthening the European future of Ukraine and meets the new economic and security commitments announced at the Conference on the Recovery of Ukraine in London and Vilnius.

I welcome Special Representative Pritzker to the role and extend my deep gratitude for her renewed public service, the State Secretary said.
WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Chair Alex Hoehn-Saric and U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) announced today eight awardees of a grant program aimed at preventing pool and spa drownings, as well as drain entrapments. The state and local governments were selected by CPSC, from a group of applicants, to receive more than $2 million in Pool Safely Grant Program (PSGP) grant funds. This funding appropriated by Congress will provide these state and local governments with assistance for education, training, and enforcement of pool safety requirements that are intended to save lives and prevent serious injuries.

Pool Safely Grant Program Awards

Awardees State Award Amount City of North Richland Hills Texas $319,485.91 DuPage County Health Department Illinois $378,853.67 Florida Department of Health Florida $400,000.00 City of Huntington Beach California $141,837.00 District of Columbia Health Department District of Columbia $64,530.00 Seminole County Florida $194,535.00 Harris County Texas $394,870.00 City of Amarillo Texas $107,853.92

"Drowning remains the number one cause of death for children ages one to four," said CPSC Chair Alex Hoehn-Saric. "These grants can make a real difference by providing funding to assist communities in their lifesaving work to reduce the risk of drowning and drain entrapment in pools and spas."

"We must do more to prevent drownings, the leading killer of America's youngest children," said Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz. "We can avoid these devastating tragedies by teaching children to swim, ensuring pools have the right safety equipment, and educating parents on the vital importance of supervising children in and near the water  and these grants are critical tools to help us do that."

The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGB Act), which Rep. Wasserman Schultz authored and championed, was passed by Congress and signed into law by President George W. Bush in December 2007. The VGB Act authorizes the PSGP, which provides state and local governments with assistance for education, training, and enforcement of pool safety requirements.

CPSC's website www.PoolSafely.gov has more information on the Pool Safely Grant Program and the VGB Act as well as free, downloadable educational materials available to the public.

Individual Commissioners may have statements related to this topic. Please visit www.cpsc.gov/commissioners to search for statements related to this or other topics.

About the U.S. CPSC

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risk of injury or death associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product-related incidents cost the nation more than $1 trillion annually. CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products has contributed to a decline in the rate of injuries associated with consumer products over the past 50 years.

Federal law prohibits any person from selling products subject to a Commission ordered recall or a voluntary recall undertaken in consultation with the CPSC.

For lifesaving information:

- Visit CPSC.gov.

- Sign up to receive our e-mail alerts.

- Follow us on Facebook, Instagram @USCPSC and Twitter @USCPSC.

- Report a dangerous product or a product-related injury on www.SaferProducts.gov.

- Call CPSC's Hotline at 800-638-2772 (TTY 301-595-7054).

- Contact a media specialist.

Release Number: 23-281

SOURCE U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "cryptocurrency ATM market by type (one way and two way) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America) - Forecast and Analysis 2022-2026" report has been added to the Technavio offering. With ISO 9001:2015 certification, Technavio has proudly partnered with more than 100 Fortune 500 companies for over 16 years. The potential growth difference for the cryptocurrency ATM market from 2021 to 2026 is USD 2.37 billion, according to Technavio. The increasing number of installations is a key factor driving market growth. To develop new products and emerging technologies that are used around the world in crypto ATMs, companies active in the worldwide market will make significant investments in research and development. Furthermore, with a view to making transactions more efficient, providers are putting in place different technologies with the aim of increasing hash rates and reducing energy consumption. Falling cryptocurrency values have encouraged providers to launch affordable crypto ATMs to expand their presence in this growing sector. For example, in May 2021, Bitcoin Depot announced the launch of over 350 new crypto ATMs in the US. Hence, these factors are expected to drive market growth during the forecast period. Get deeper insights into the market size, current market scenario, future growth opportunities, major growth driving factors, the latest trends, and more. Buy the full report here

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Cryptocurrency ATM Market 2022-2026

Market Challenge

Limited acceptance of cryptocurrencies as a legal trend is a significant challenge restricting market growth. Cryptocurrencies are seen as posing a threat to current currency systems because of their volatility and decentralized nature. Consequently, cryptocurrencies are not considered legal tender in countries such as India , Bangladesh , and China . Furthermore, in some countries, digital currencies have been banned, but others are attempting to limit the flow of support from banks and financial systems with major implications for their trading and use. Cryptocurrency 's association with illegal activities such as drug trafficking and money laundering was one of the factors that led to its ban. Hence, these factors are expected to restrict market growth during the forecast period.

Learn about additional key drivers, trends, and challenges available with Technavio. Read Free Sample PDF Report Now

The cryptocurrency ATM market has been segmented by type (one way and two way) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America).

The cryptocurrency ATM market share growth by the one way segment will be significant during the forecast period. One-way cryptocurrency ATM allows the users to either buy or sell cryptocurrency as they are unidirectional. These ATMs are a safe way of buying, sending, and selling cryptocurrencies . This is due to its vast technological innovations; it helps protect the volatility of Bitcoin by providing quick transaction functions. One-way crypto ATMs are more affordable than two-way crypto ATMs. Hence, these factors are expected to drive market growth during the forecast period.

North America is estimated to contribute 43% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

View Free Sample Report for insights into the contribution of all the segments and regional opportunities in the report.

Key Companies in the Cryptocurrency ATM market:

ATM OPS LLC, Bitaccess Inc., Cash Cloud Inc., ChainBytes LLC, Clark, Sharp, and Reynolds LLC, Coinme Inc., Express Systems USA Inc., General Bytes SRO, Genesis Coin Inc., GFT Technologies SE, Kurant GmbH, Lamassu Industries AG, Lux Vending LLC, ORDERBOB, RockItCoin LLC, and RusBit Ltd.

Related Reports:

The building automation software market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 14.22% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 25.46 billion.

The electronic design automation (EDA) market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.76% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 7,504.13 million.

Cryptocurrency ATM Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2021 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 53.09% Market growth 2022-2026 USD 2.37 billion Market structure Concentrated YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 40.05 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America Performing market contribution North America at 43% Key countries US, Canada, China, Japan, Germany, and France Competitive landscape Leading Companies, Market Positioning of Companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled ATM OPS LLC, Bitaccess Inc., Cash Cloud Inc., ChainBytes LLC, Clark, Sharp, and Reynolds LLC, Coinme Inc., Express Systems USA Inc., General Bytes SRO, Genesis Coin Inc., GFT Technologies SE, Kurant GmbH, Lamassu Industries AG, Lux Vending LLC, ORDERBOB, RockItCoin LLC, and RusBit Ltd. Market dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, and Market condition analysis for the forecast period. Customization purview If our report has not included the data you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get customized segments.

ToC:

Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market Sizing

Historic Market Sizes

Five Forces Analysis

Market Segmentation by Type

Market Segmentation by Geography

Customer Landscape

Geographic Landscape

Drivers, Challenges, & Trends

Company Landscape

Company Analysis

Appendix

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com

SOURCE Technavio
DETROIT, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Daniel J. Loepp, president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, informed the company's Board of Directors and employees today of his plan to retire at the end of next year  Dec. 31, 2024. During his more than two decades of leadership at BCBSM, Mr. Loepp transformed the company from a large single-state health insurance plan and workers' compensation subsidiary to a modern, diversified, multi-company enterprise of national scale. The Executive Committee of the BCBSM Board of Directors will lead the succession process, beginning in December 2023 with the start of a national search for a new President and CEO.

"Transformational is the one word that best describes Dan Loepp's legacy over more than 20 years," said Gregory A. Sudderth, chairman of the BCBSM Board. "His vision and leadership diversified our business model, revolutionized the delivery of patient care, modernized the experience of our members, helped revitalize our cities' downtowns and strengthened our social mission commitments to communities. In every way, Dan Loepp has prepared Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan to compete and succeed in a 21st Century where health care continues to evolve, and where our nonprofit company's longstanding social mission remains as critical as ever."

"I am very proud of the achievements we have shared over these past two decades," Mr. Loepp said in his announcement to employees. "I am tremendously proud of the work you have done. Our enterprise employees  at every level  have embraced change, innovated to bring forward new ideas, rallied through challenges and carried on with determination to grow our business and fulfill our commitments to the people we serve."

During Mr. Loepp's tenure as CEO, BCBSM revenue more than doubled  from $15.3 billion in 2005 to $32.8 billion in 2022.

Mr. Loepp championed BCBSM's transformation to a nonprofit mutual insurance company in 2013  enabling Blue Cross and its subsidiary companies to serve more customers in a greater variety of insurance markets and providing greater depth and breadth of health insurance product offerings. He championed partnerships and investments to expand into emerging markets beyond commercial health insurance  including a move in 2011 to become a minority owner of AmeriHealth Caritas, a national Medicaid managed care company; and another in 2022 to enable AF Group, a BCBSM subsidiary offering primarily workers' compensation insurance, to purchase AmeriTrust Group to diversify its product and solution offerings. In 2021, he furthered investment in new technologies and different ways to deliver solutions for the healthcare ecosystem when BCBSM purchased NASCO, a provider of innovative health care technology for other Blue Cross and Blue Shield licensed plans. NASCO services over 20 million Blue members across the nation. In 2023, Mr. Loepp led efforts by BCBSM and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont to formally affiliate. Pending regulatory approval, BCBS Vermont would become the first Blue Cross and Blue Shield licensed plan outside of Michigan to join the BCBSM enterprise.

Mr. Loepp also initiated BCBSM's nationally recognized efforts to work with physicians and health systems to transform the payment model for health care services  including the launch of one of the nation's largest Patient-Centered Medical Home programs in 2009. More than 20 value-based care initiatives launched by BCBSM during Mr. Loepp's tenure have helped make Michigan a leader in leveraging payment reforms to promote health care quality and health outcomes for patients.

A champion of the idea that companies should serve communities, Mr. Loepp led efforts by BCBSM to invest in Michigan's urban centers as hubs for business operations. In 2007, he initiated the restoration of Lansing's derelict Board of Water and Light power station in the heart of the city's downtown  opening it in 2011 as the new national headquarters of Accident Fund, a BCBSM workers' compensation subsidiary. In 2010, he stood at the forefront of a movement by southeast Michigan employers to return to downtown Detroit by relocating 3,000 suburban BCBSM employees to offices in the GM Renaissance Center and other BCBSM downtown Detroit properties. He also committed BCBSM employees to locate in downtown Traverse City  and remain located in downtown Grand Rapids and Marquette serving local customers. As part of the legislative effort that led to BCBSM transitioning to become a nonprofit mutual insurance company in 2013, Mr. Loepp agreed to commit $1.56 billion to the independent Michigan Health Endowment Fund over 18 years  an unparalleled corporate financial commitment  to further the company's historic social mission into the future. In 2018, BCBSM committed $5 million to the City of Detroit's Strategic Neighborhood Fund to invest in revitalizing the East Warren-Cadieux neighborhood where Mr. Loepp spent his boyhood years.

"As you can imagine, it's not an easy decision to step away from the best job I've had, leading a company of such significant importance to the lives of millions of people, and one that is only beginning to realize its potential for diversifying into an enterprise of national scale," Mr. Loepp said in his message to employees. "But it's the right decision and this is the right time to make it."

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit mutual insurance company, provides health benefits to nearly 5.2 million members. The company is committed to delivering affordable health care products through a broad variety of plans for businesses and individuals. Based in Detroit since 1939, BCBSM supports impactful community initiatives and provides leadership in improving health care across Michigan. BCBSM is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. For more information, visit bcbsm.com and MiBluesPerspectives.com.

SOURCE Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
Contributions include programs at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, Central City Health, Great Lakes Bay Health Center, Cherry Health Foundation, Macomb Community College, Lansing Community College and the Michigan Dental Society

BOSTON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DentaQuest, part of Sun Life U.S., today announced a series of contributions to Michigan nonprofits to help increase oral health care access and education among underserved communities. DentaQuest provides dental benefits to more than 2 million people across Michigan, through state-based Medicaid and Medicare programs, as well as individual and commercial plans.

DentaQuest is donating $45,000 across seven organizations in support of grassroots efforts to provide accessible oral health care services to at-risk individuals and new pathways into the dental profession, including:

"Were investing in the future of health care in Michigan and improving oral health outcomes for all." Post this

University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry to enable dental student experiences in community-based care for underserved populations through school-based and other outreach programs.

School of Dentistry to enable dental student experiences in community-based care for underserved populations through school-based and other outreach programs. Central City Health to launch a mobile dental program for Detroit and Wayne counties.

and counties. Great Lakes Bay Health Center to provide children oral health services at schools, shelters and soup kitchens.

Cherry Health Foundation to provide underserved individuals with fully covered oral health care services.

Macomb and Lansing Community Colleges to continue offering dental hygiene scholarships.

and Lansing Community Colleges to continue offering dental hygiene scholarships. Michigan Dental Society to increase access to oral health care across the state.

"Access to quality care is one of the biggest barriers to achieving good oral health for many underserved and at-risk individuals," said Steve Pollock, president of DentaQuest. "By supporting local, community-based organizations and academic institutions that are committed to increasing access to oral health care and new workforce pathways, we're investing in the future of health care in Michigan and improving oral health outcomes for all."

University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry

DentaQuest's contribution to the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry will be designated to assist its Mobile Clinic Fund. This donation supports a mix of school-based mobile programs, Men's Oral Health Clinics, Mouthguard Clinics, Special Needs Clinics and student run dental clinics, which allow dental students to participate in service learning and community-based care for at-risk populations.

Central City Health

DentaQuest's donation will be used to launch Central City Health's (CCH) mobile dental program, which will provide oral health care for schools and community events across Detroit and Wayne counties. CCH is recognized as a Level III Patient-Centered Medical Home, the highest level of recognition from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA).

Great Lakes Bay Health Center

The Great Lakes Bay Health Center (GLBHC) is Michigan's second-largest federally qualified health center (FQHC), with 30 locations spanning seven counties, that cares for individuals and communities who are underserved, uninsured or underinsured. With DentaQuest's contribution, GLBHC will provide comprehensive oral health care to children at schools, shelters and soup kitchens through its "Smiles are Everywhere" mobile program.

Cherry Health Foundation

DentaQuest's donation to Cherry Health Foundation will be applied to the organization's Patient Care Fund, which will help provide oral health care services, including screenings, cleanings, sealants, implants and dentures to eligible patients. Cherry Health Foundation is the state's largest FQHC, based in Grand Rapids and operating in six counties.

Macomb and Lansing Community Colleges

DentaQuest's contribution will extend its support of the DentaQuest Dental Hygiene Scholarships already offered at Macomb and Lansing Community Colleges. These scholarships provide financial assistance to students facing challenges or students returning to school later in life with the ultimate goal of developing more qualified dental professionals ready to serve in their local communities.

Michigan Dental Society

The Michigan Dental Society will use DentaQuest's contribution to support its "Swings for Smiles" event, hosted in partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Funds raised during the event will aid Michigan Dental Society's access to care projects.

Today's announcement is DentaQuest's latest investment in organizations increasing oral health care access in Michigan. The contributions complement DentaQuest's longtime support for local efforts by the Michigan Dental Association Foundation and TeamSmile, which focus on access to care for underserved populations.

About DentaQuest

DentaQuest, part of Sun Life U.S., is a purpose-driven health care company dedicated to improving the oral health of all. We do this through Preventistry  our inclusive approach to quality care and expanded access built on trusted partnerships between patients, providers and payors. As one of the nation's largest and most experienced Medicaid dental benefits administrators, we manage dental and vision benefits for more than 33 million Americans through a nationwide network of providers in all 50 states. Our outcomes-based, cost-effective dental solutions are designed for Medicaid and CHIP, Medicare Advantage, small and large businesses, and individuals. At the same time, we are expanding our footprint of more than 70 oral health centers in six states to deliver direct patient care in rural and underserved populations. Learn more at www.DentaQuest.com and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn .

Direct Media Inquiries to:

Farrah Phillipo

[email protected]

781-654-6764

SOURCE DentaQuest, part of Sun Life U.S.
C &C Heating & Air Conditioning general manager celebrates National Tradesmen Day by extolling the benefits of a career in the home service industry

DETROIT, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- C & C Heating & Air Conditioning, a leading Detroit-area heating and cooling company with more than seven decades of experience, is celebrating National Tradesmen Day on Sept. 15 by encouraging teenagers and young adults to consider a career in the trades as they prepare for their future.

C & C Heating & Air Conditioning is encouraging young adults to consider a career in the trades.

"When young people are considering a career, they're often not exposed to the benefits of entering into the trades, and that's something we need to correct," said Dayna Hottle, general manager of C & C Heating & Air Conditioning. "Not only is trade school much less expensive than college, but you can start working sooner so that you're earning money quickly. There are no large student loans to repay. You often leave trade school earning a competitive salary and there are jobs available."

She said that the average cost of attending a four-year college is about four times more expensive than most trade schools. Students can spend, on average, about $132,000 to get a bachelor's degree at a four-year university. However, the average cost to graduate from trade school is approximately $33,000, according to the Center for Employment Training.

Hottle said that Baby Boomers are retiring from the trades in record numbers so HVAC, plumbing and other home service companies often have positions available for trained technicians. In addition to lucrative and available positions, most skilled trades work comes with benefit packages that are as good as those available to college graduates.

"For years, we've told our children that the only way to earn a decent living was to attend college," she said. "And, while it's true that you need higher education to earn a living wage, all kids don't necessarily have to go to college. For students who have a talent for solving problems, like to work with their hands or have an elevated level of technical proficiency, the trades are a great alternative."

National Tradesmen Day was started by Irwin Tools in 2011 to recognize the tradesmen who build the nation's infrastructure and keep its cars running, its water flowing and its lights on. The day is celebrated on the third Friday in September.

"The skilled trades have a lot of opportunities for men, women and minorities looking for long-term work, and we're happy to celebrate National Tradesmen Day," Hottle said. "The trades are fantastic careers to pursue because there is so much growth opportunity in our current climate. The sky's the limit."

About C & C Heating & Air Conditioning

C & C Heating & Air Conditioning is a Detroit-area heating and cooling company with more than seven decades of expertise installing and servicing all makes and models of heating and cooling equipment. Their technicians are highly trained and qualified and undergo annual background checks, random drug testing, extensive technical and customer service training and are North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certified. Services include HVAC maintenance and repair, duct cleaning, whole-home air filtration systems, indoor air quality systems and comprehensive maintenance agreements. For more information, call C & C Heating & Air Conditioning at (586) 439-3319 or visit their website at https://candcheat.com/

MEDIA CONTACT:

Heather Ripley

Ripley PR

865-977-1973

[email protected]

SOURCE C & C Heating & Air Conditioning
After a two-year competition with the best young chefs from around the world, the time has come for the final stage that will see the winner of the 2022-23 edition crowned.

The two-day event in Milan, built around the concept of "bring your future to the table", will bring together some of the most influential voices in gastronomy to engage in a conversation on how to create positive change in society through food.

MILAN, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2022-2023 is coming to its final phase as the doors of the long awaited Grand Finale are about to open on 4 and 5 October in Milan. After almost two years of tough selection, 15 of the most promising young chefs in the world are going to give their best to win the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Award. During this journey the young talents have been mentored by world renowned chefs and encouraged to bring their unique technical skills, creativity, vision and dreams to the table to support the evolution of gastronomy and to make the world a better place through food.

After a two-year competition with the best young chefs from around the world, the time has come for the final stage that will see the winner of the 2022-23 edition crowned.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click:

https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/9201151-great-chefs-of-tomorrow-spellegrino-competition-grand-finale/

Set against a backdrop of unforgettable city landmarks, ranging from exquisite historic palaces to contemporary hangars, the event also features the world's best chefs engaging in inspiring speeches and knowledge exchange, with the space to cultivate novel ideas to drive positive social change. The Grand Finale coincides with a new edition of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy The Forum, an exclusive event dedicated to shaping the future of gastronomy. This year's focus is human aspects in work environments and industry culture, with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. It will be a moment for all the participants to connect, whether young or senior, to feel inspired, to feel elevated, and to feel energised to face what will come next for the industry.

This year's edition will comprise three distinct sessions with renowned chefs and industry experts. Each session will offer valuable advice, recommendations and suggestions to address the practical challenges that young chefs will inevitably encounter. The first segment will be led by Virgilio Martinez, winner of The World's 50 Best Restaurants 2023. Through an open letter, Martinez will share his personal perspective on how to contribute to the evolution of the sector. Drawing from his own career achievements and aspirations, he will shed light on what this endeavour truly means. During the second session, a unique occurrence will take place as the four previous S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Award winners  Jerome Ianmark Calayag (2021), Yasuhiro Fujio (2018), Mitch Lienhard (2016) and Mark Moriarty (2015)  join forces on stage. They will collectively showcase their remarkable journeys since their respective competitions and illuminate the profound impact of their work. The final phase of the forum will feature a dialogue with the Seven Sages: Pia Leon, Eneko Atxa, Helene Darroze, Vicky Lau, Nancy Silverton, Julien Royer and Riccardo Camanini. This engaging exchange will provide young chefs with insights on how to enhance their own work and transform it into impactful actions. The accomplished Seven Sages will share their perspectives openly and foster a dynamic conversation on achieving excellence.

The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy The Forum will take place on the first day of the Grand Finale to prepare the young chefs to shine in the final stage of the competition, a journey that started over a year ago, during which time they have competed, and have been accompanied and guided by mentors to pave the way for their future career. Because their best will make the future of gastronomy better.

To learn more about the initiative please visit: www.sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.com .

About S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy

Gastronomy has the potential to transform society, shaping a more inclusive, more sustainable future. But doing requires talent. That's why S.Pellegrino has created S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, a platform to attract, connect and nurture the next generation of culinary talents. An environment that will empower them through education, mentoring and experience opportunities, as well as through the renowned global competition.

The Academy opens its doors to members from over 70 different countries, ensuring that talent is not constrained by geography, ethnicity, or gender. This is a place where passionate young chefs interact with the most influential players in global gastronomy, and where together they cultivate an inspiring culinary community.

To discover more please visit: https://www.sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.com/

About S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna

S.Pellegrino, Acqua Panna and Sanpellegrino Italian Sparkling Drinks are international trademarks of Sanpellegrino S.p.A., which is based in Milan, Italy. Distributed in over 150 countries through branches and distributors on all five continents, these products represent quality, excellence by virtue of their origins and perfectly interpret Italian style worldwide as a synthesis of pleasure, health and well-being. Founded in 1899, Sanpellegrino S.p.A. is the leading company in the beverage sector in Italy with its range of mineral waters, non-alcoholic aperitifs and drinks.

Sanpellegrino has always been committed to enhancing this primary good for the planet and works responsibly and passionately to ensure that this resource has a secure future.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2208199/SPYCA_COMPETITION.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1341607/4260608/SPYCA_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Sanpellegrino Group
Representing a significant strategic roadmap milestone, the new fulfillment center will allow Duluth Trading to better serve its customers by providing faster shipping times and supporting its footprint of retail stores nationwide. The new facility will also create hundreds of new jobs to the Atlanta-area.

"We are proud to open our first highly automated fulfillment center in Adairsville, Georgia and add hundreds of new jobs to the Atlanta-area," said Sam Sato, Duluth Trading's President and CEO. "This project was truly a collaborative effort across the talented individuals here at Duluth Trading as well as the invaluable contributions of external partners, local contractors and Bartow County leadership. As we see it, our investment in this facility is an investment in our customer. Our new Adairsville fulfillment center will enable us to improve customer experience and help us get products in the hands of our brand fans even faster."

Duluth Trading was founded in 1989 and is headquartered in Mount Horeb, WI. Known for its humorous marketing and best-in-class customer service, the Company prides itself as a problem-solution workwear and outdoor apparel destination. The retailer is currently hiring for a variety of positions, including full-time, part-time and seasonal fulfillment center warehouse associates. Interested individuals should apply at www.duluthtrading.com/careers.

About Duluth Trading Company

Based in Mount Horeb, Wisconsin, Duluth Trading and its growing portfolio of brands  Duluth and AKHG cater to the lifestyle of the modern, self-reliant American. Duluth Trading's family of brands offer high-quality, solution-based apparel, accessories and gear for men and women to help them take on life with their own two hands. Duluth Trading honors its roots by creating the hardest-working products, backed by the "Superior Standard," and commits to providing outstanding customer service under the "No Bull Guarantee." To learn more, visit www.duluthtrading.com or one of the 65 Duluth Trading store locations nationwide.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding the expected performance of our fulfillment center. The forward-looking statements are not historical facts, and are based upon Duluth Trading's current expectations, beliefs, estimates, and projections, and various assumptions, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and beyond Duluth Trading's control. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date the statements are made. Duluth Trading assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, subsequent events or circumstances or other changes affecting forward-looking information except to the extent required by applicable securities laws.

TURNER PR

(212) 889-1700

[email protected]

SOURCE Duluth Trading
Women Elevating Women Hosts 'Elevation Acceleration' Conference, Mapping Strategies for Female Entrepreneurs to Catapult Their Businesses to New Heights

MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Women now own 42% of all businesses in the U.S., but still face formidable challenges when starting and growing a business. To help shatter these barriers, Women Elevating Women (W.E.W.) will host its Elevation Acceleration Conference, Sept. 18-20, at the Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown where a diverse and dynamic group of visionary businesswomen from across the country will convene to share strategies for success and economic empowerment.

Topics will include uncovering the secrets of global market domination; navigating the intricate world of e-commerce; unlocking the potential of artificial intelligence; championing the transformative power of diversity; securing coveted government contracts through certification programs; leveraging good health for financial prosperity; elevating a business through branding and marketing; and accelerating small business growth through advanced cloud computing.

"As a corporate executive and business owner for over 40 years in a typically male-dominated industry, I know firsthand the relentless struggle multicultural professional women face each day  to not just survive, but thrive in a fast-paced and constantly changing business environment," said Betty J. Hines, CEO and founder of W.E.W. "This conference will set the stage for female entrepreneurs to unite, openly share their experiences, and ultimately, turn business challenges into opportunities. And we'll do this drawing on W.E.W.'s five pillars of success: Collaborate, Connect, Communicate, Courage and Cultivate."

This year's key conference speakers include:

During the conference, women of color entrepreneurs will be recognized for their professional achievements and community service at the Entrepreneurial Women of Impact Awards  a joint collaboration with Women Presidents Organization and sponsored by JPMorgan Chase Commercial Banking.

W.E.W. also will honor women who embody the five pillars of success and present awards to its visionary men.

For more information about W.E.W., visit wewcrew.com.

Media Contact:

Sandy Arnette, APR

President

Arnette Media Strategies, LLC

410-274-5975

[email protected]

SOURCE Women Elevating Women
Demeetra, headquartered in Kentucky, is a biotechnology company whose core focus is developing and optimizing gene editing technologies in commercially applicable systems. Demeetra's technologies and know-how are transferred to its partners through simple commercial licenses with freedom to operate.

Commenting on the deal, Jack Crawford, CEO of Demeetra stated: "We're excited about the ERS license, granting us access to the CRISPR IP portfolio; synergizing perfectly with our dimeric Cas-CLOVER. This powerful combination will be available for sublicensing in bioprocessing and synthetic biology applications."

Eric Rhodes, CEO, ERS Genomics was equally positive about the new licensee: "Demeetra's commitment to enabling scientific advancement harmonizes seamlessly with our mission to broaden the use of CRISPR/Cas9. By enhancing and expanding CRISPR/Cas9 accessibility, Demeetra is driving us closer to achieving our technology's full potential."

Financial details of the agreement are not being disclosed.

About Demeetra

Centrally located in the Bluegrass State of Kentucky, Demeetra AgBio was launched in 2019. Since inception Demeetra has built extensive gene editing know-how, complementing internally developed as well as a globally sourced portfolio of intellectual property. Their scientific team is composed of experts with diverse backgrounds in gene editing, ranging from microbes and plants, to mammalian cells. Scientific achievements include being the first to successfully edit plants and yeast with their precise Cas-CLOVER technology.

For more information visit: www.demeetra.com

Contact information: Elizabeth Allen, [email protected]

About ERS Genomics

ERS Genomics is a biotechnology company based in Dublin, Ireland. The company was formed to provide broad access to the foundational CRISPR/Cas9 intellectual property held by Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier. Non-exclusive licenses are available for research and sale of products and services across multiple fields including research tools, kits, reagents; discovery of novel targets for therapeutic intervention; cell lines for discovery and screening of novel drug candidates; GMP production of healthcare products; companion animal and livestock health; production of industrial materials such as enzymes, biofuels and chemicals; and synthetic biology. ERS holds over 100 patents worldwide.

For additional information, please visit www.ersgenomics.com

Media contact: Dara O'Donnell, ERS Genomics, [email protected], Tel: + 353-1-539 0083

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2206959/Jack_Crawford_CEO_Demeetra.jpg

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2206961/Eric_Rhodes_CEO_ERS_Genomics.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2090619/ERS_Logo.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2206960/Demeetra_Logo.jpg

SOURCE ERS Genomics
A total of 66 e-taxis and more than 60 charging points are being equipped with the automated conductive Matrix Charging technology.

GRAZ, Austria, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The operational start of the new electric taxi stands lays the cornerstone for the roll-out of the eTaxi Austria project, which will point the way for the entire taxi industry. The first taxi stands in Austria equipped with Matrix Charging went into operation on Vorgartenstrasse in Vienna and are in the process of implementation at Schillerplatz in Graz. To lower emissions and further improve quality of life in the city, Vienna and Graz will be increasingly shifting to electric taxis. A total of eight taxi stands and 56 vehicles in Vienna as well as two stands and ten vehicles in Graz are being upgraded by car service stations from Volkswagen and Hyundai with the Matrix Charging technology, developed by the Austrian technology company Easelink.

eTaxi Austria: electric taxis charging with Matrix Charging at taxi stands in Vienna

Technology leap for the taxi industry

Instead of plugging an electric car into the charging station with a cable, these vehicles equipped with a connector on the underbody can be connected to a charging pad at the taxi stand with the push of a button. Thanks to automated charging directly at the taxi stands, the electric taxis are charged automatically, without the need to leave the vehicle or visit a dedicated charging station  an essential factor for ensuring smooth electric taxi operations. The first taxi stands have now been equipped with the technology, laying the cornerstone for roll-out of the project. The electric taxi drivers can make use of this infrastructure with two of the most modern electric vehicle models, the VW ID.4 and the Hyundai IONIQ 5. The eTaxi Austria project will run until the start of 2025. Efficiency, robustness, and the cost factor were the decisive factors by the cities of Vienna and Graz in the technology decision for Matrix Charging. The conductive energy transfer has an efficiency of 99 % and the technology has significantly lower manufacturing costs than inductive charging systems.

General Secretary Herbert Kasser of the Federal Ministry for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology (BMK): "We are very pleased to have worked alongside Vienna and Graz over the course of many years on converting the taxi fleets. Since 2013, the BMK has provided funding by means of various programs that has helped lay important groundwork in Vienna and Graz. This makes it all the more gratifying to witness this project based on innovative charging technology developed in Austria successfully positioning climate protection as an opportunity for the local economy."

Hermann Stockinger, Founder & General Manager of Easelink: "The eTaxi Austria project utilizing Matrix Charging technology in the cities of Vienna and Graz is the world's largest e-mobility project focused on automated charging. Together with over 30 partners, we are not only overcoming the central hurdle to barrier-free charging infrastructure in the urban environment, we are also demonstrating international technology leadership with this pioneering project."

Peter Hanke, Vienna City Councilor for Finance and the Economy : "Taxis are an important element of the transportation landscape in Vienna. With eTaxi Austria, we are playing a part in the transition to an electric taxi fleet in Vienna, which will benefit the entire city and its residents. The unobtrusive charging pads embedded in the ground pose no barriers to movement and simultaneously point the way towards the electrification of Vienna's taxi fleets."

An industry in transformation

As of 2025, only emission-free vehicles will be authorised for taxi operations in Austria. The Austrian Chamber of Commerce and Industry wishes to support the taxi operators in managing this transition and sees potential for other industries as well. "The taxi industry in Vienna actively engages in innovative projects and is aware of its responsibility in connection with climate protection. Automated charging directly at the taxi stand will allow taxi drivers to conveniently charge their electric vehicles while waiting. In this way, the business sector once again demonstrates that innovation is the right path to greater climate protection," says Walter Ruck, President of the Vienna Economic Chamber.

In the respective cities, Wien Energie & Energie Graz are the installer and operator of the charging infrastructure and will be supplying 100 percent green electricity for charging the electric taxis. The green electricity can be distributed among the vehicles based on actual demand by means of the intelligent load management system. A single taxi can be charged with up to 11 kW of alternating current (AC).

Bernd Vogl, General Director of the Climate and Energy Fund :"With the eTaxi project, Vienna and Graz have succeeded in bringing e-mobility into the daily experience of the population. I congratulate the project team on the successful implementation, and I am convinced that the project will deliver valuable experience for the roll-out in Vienna and Graz as well as in other cities."

Michael Strebl, Chairman of the Wien Energie Board of Management: "We need innovative approaches to accomplish the mobility transition. Electromobility is a key factor in individual transportation, and taxis face particular challenges here. With this charging technology, eTaxis will be able to conveniently recharge with green electricity while waiting at the taxi stand. That is good for the environment and practical for the taxi drivers."

About the technology: 100 percent barrier-free plus value creation in Austria

In addition to increasing the robustness of the charging pads for use in public spaces, electronic switch cabinet components have been integrated into the new pad generation. This means that the taxi stands get by entirely without above-ground switch cabinets or columns. The eTaxi Austria project makes use of the newest generation of the Matrix Charging technology, which was developed in cooperation with Austrian partners and with a high level of value creation in Austria.

Project partners

In addition to the project consortium, consisting of the Economic Chambers of Vienna and Styria, Wien Energie and Energie Graz, Easelink, Grazer Energieagentur, Taxi 40100 and Taxi 31300 as well as vibe moves you, Quintessenz and tbw research as research director, many other Austrian partners contributed to making this project a reality. The cities of Vienna and Graz, Taxi 878, the OAMTC as well as Hyundai and Porsche Inter Auto are supporting the project. The implementation partners for the Matrix Charging technology also include Bossard Austria, Becom, Hug Technik & Sicherheit, Faigle Industrieplast, Loscher Elektronik, Iskra, Polytec Holding, Zern and Zettler electronics.

The project is being funded by the Climate and Energy Fund as part of the "Zero Emission Mobility Implementation" program. It will last until the start of 2025 and should serve as the basis for further mobility transformations. The city of Graz is additionally supporting the project implementation in Graz.

More information about the project can be found at https://www.etaxi-austria.at/

Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iivs8SM6zQ0

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210985/Easelink_Logo.jpg

Webpage: www.easelink.com

Press release on easelink.com

Download press kit



SOURCE Easelink GmbH
Interfax-Ukraine to host discussion 'How escalation of armed conflict between Armenians and Azerbaijanis to affect war against Ukraine'

On Monday, September 18, at 14.30, the press centre of the Interfax-Ukraine News Agency will host a discussion entitled "How escalation of armed conflict between Armenians and Azerbaijanis to affect war against Ukraine."

Participants include: economist, financial analyst Oleksiy Kusch; political expert Kostiantyn Matviyenko; political scientist, co-founder of the National Platform for Sustainability and Cohesion Oleh Sahakian ((8/5a Reitarska Street). The event will be streamed on the Interfax-Ukraine YouTube channel. Admission of journalists requires registration (8/5a Reitarska Street).

The event will be streamed on the Interfax-Ukraine YouTube channel. Admission of journalists requires registration on the spot using editorial IDs.
HANOI, Vietnam, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Over nearly 13 years since its inception, "Viet Nam Days Abroad" has been successfully organized, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Viet Nam, for 16 times in Europe, Asia, America, and especially once in virtual format. In 2023, this series of events will appear for the first time in Africa (on September 14-15).

"Viet Nam Days in South Africa 2023" has been organised on the official visit to the Republic of South Africa by Madame Vo Thi Anh Xuan, Vice President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. The program takes place in Pretoria - South Africa's Administrative Capital, with series of activities such as Viet Nam Cultural Space, the 30th Anniversary Celebration of Diplomatic Relations between the two countries with outstanding art performances, Viet Nam - South Africa's Business Roundtable. This series of activities marks the first time "Viet Nam Days Abroad" has taken place in Africa.

Viet Nam and South Africa established diplomatic relations in 1993. In terms of politics, the two countries have maintained good, trustworthy, and close relations seen in frequent mutual visits, most notably ones by South African President Thabo Mbeki (2007), and Vietnamese Prime Minister Phan Van Khai (2004).

Economic cooperation between the two sides has developed adequately. Two-way trade turnover has increased more than 6 times over the past 15 years, from 192 million USD in 2007 to nearly 1.3 billion USD in 2022.

With the theme of "Origin, Vitality, and Prosperity", Viet Nam Cultural Space gathered skilled experienced artisans and young culture practitioners with a view to providing visitors with a highly immersive experience.

Participants will have the opportunity to experience lacquer painting and trinkets making process from such materials as silver, gold, seashells, egg shells They will also take part in the process of creating Dong Ho paintings - the art of printing images from an heirloom engraving, a painting tool handed down through generations, onto traditionally-made-paper.

Another interesting corner in Viet Nam Cultural Space is the To He booth, in which visitors use ingredients made from glutinous rice mixed with food coloring to shape into a To He - a popular Vietnamese folk toy over the past 500 years. The products can be any colorful animal of their liking.

A special feature in this year's cultural space is the attendance of the 90s generation with the project on costumes under the Nguyen Dynasty. Visitors will put on costumes aged over 300 with distinctive and traditional patterns that represent different classes in the society.

Lastly, Viet Nam Cultural Space has an area for photo exhibitions on topics of Viet Nam - South Africa diplomatic relations, Viet Nam's world heritages recognised by UNESCO, and the beauty of the country and people of Viet Nam.

Mr. Hoang Huu Anh - Deputy Director General of the Department of Cultural Diplomacy and UNESCO Affairs and Head of the Organizing Committee said: "Viet Nam Days Abroad is a significant national promotion program to introduce the country and people of Viet Nam to international friends, opening up opportunities to promote economic cooperation and creating space for foreigners to experience Vietnamese culture. The event's series of activities demonstrate Viet Nam's tradition of harmony, love for peace, and heart-to-heart diplomatic identity."

"Viet Nam Days Abroad" is a national promotional program that the Viet Nam Ministry of Foreign Affairs organises annually to celebrate the establishment of diplomatic ties between Viet Nam and countries. This series of activities also takes place on the occasion of Leaders of Viet Nam's official visits to countries, or on celebration of significant international events.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210834/ok_01.jpg

SOURCE Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Scott H. Novak, An Experienced Tax Attorney, Joins Scarinci's Little Falls, NJ Office

LITTLE FALLS, N.J., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tax attorney Scott H. Novak has joined Scarinci Hollenbeck's Little Falls office as partner. Mr. Novak brings with him nearly thirty years of experience handling income, federal, state, foreign and employment tax issues on behalf of individuals and businesses in a broad range of industries.

Tax attorney Scott H. Novak has joined Scarinci Hollenbeck's Little Falls office as partner. Mr. Novak brings with him nearly thirty years of experience handling income, federal, state, foreign and employment tax issues on behalf of individuals and businesses in a broad range of industries.

"I am thrilled to bring my expertise over to the firm," stated Mr. Novak. "Scarinci Hollenbeck has a longstanding reputation of providing clients with exceptional service, which aligns with my professional philosophy of offering top-notch legal services without exception. I look forward to growing with the firm and my continued collaboration with its many talented attorneys," he continued.

Scott's diverse career has provided him with an unusual combination of expertise, compassion, direct business experience and negotiating skills that uniquely positions him to understand all facets of individuals' and companies' issues to provide the holistic and practical advice and solutions needed for today's complex and often confusing tax laws. His decades of experience have enabled him to manage virtually all tax-involved matters ranging from non-filing issues to unreported accounts, sale of businesses and business assets, unpaid employment tax liabilities, state sales tax audits, and much more.

"Scott is an accountant's best friend," said Donald Scarinci, Managing Partner. "His extensive experience in tax controversy matters makes him a go-to for accountants whose clients need an attorney to deal with the IRS, and he also provides engaging, educational CPE courses that they love."

In addition to his legal practice, Scott has written numerous articles and provided many continuing education seminars for the legal, accounting and investment communities. He has also served as an adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University. In the coming months, Scott will be hosting monthly seminars for accountants covering a variety of topics involving tax law issues. The first event of the series is entitled "What's New in Tax Law that Impacts Your Clients Now," will be hosted at the firm's Little Falls office conference room center on October 19, 2023 from 6 PM - 9 PM. 3 CPE credits are available for attendees. Registration for this event will open in the coming weeks on www.sh-law.com.

About Scott H. Novak

Partner Scott H. Novak concentrates his practice on tax law, with a focus on tax controversy, trusts and estates, planning and transactional tax matters. He routinely handles a large variety of tax-involved matters including, but not limited to, non-filing issues, unreported accounts, sale of businesses and business assets, unpaid employment tax liabilities, state sales tax audits, settlements with the IRS and state tax authorities, delicate audits and tax issues, estate planning, special needs trusts, estate probate and administration and more.

Learn more about Mr. Novak's practice: www.scarincihollenbeck.com/attorneys/scott-h-novak

About Scarinci Hollenbeck

With a growing practice of more than 60 experienced attorneys, Scarinci Hollenbeck is a regional alternative to a National 250 law firm. With offices in New Jersey, New York City, and the District of Columbia, we serve the niche practice areas most often required by institutions, corporations, entities, and the people who own and control them.

More information on our firm's expertise and range of practice can be found on our website: www.sh-law.com .

SOURCE Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
The EXTRA Hours Hotline will help students find their focus and chew over their most difficult homework problems with the help of educational experts - plus a lucky few will win a private session with celebrity guest tutor, Yara Shahidi

NEWARK, N.J., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Just in time for the onset of homework and test taking, Mars' EXTRA gum has teamed up with The Princeton Review, a leading tutoring, test prep, and college admissions services company, to launch the EXTRA Hours Hotline: a free, online tutoring platform for high school students to access homework support when it's hardest to come by - during late-night hours.

Actress and Ivy League graduate Yara Shahidi joins EXTRA Gum in partnership with Princeton Review to launch the EXTRA Hours Hotline, delivering students free homework help during late-night hours.

The week-long EXTRA Hours Hotline will run from Tuesday, September 19th through Tuesday, September 26th from 9:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. local time each weeknight, giving students free access to an on-call team of experts in a range of subjects. Students will be able to work through their homework problems with a private tutor via an online chat format and interactive whiteboard  for free.

Additionally, starting today through Monday, September 18th, students can enter for a chance to win* a virtual, on-camera study session with beloved actress and Harvard University graduate, Yara Shahidi. Those interested in speaking to Yara can visit www.EXTRAGum.com/Hotline for more details on how to enter the sweepstakes.

"Chewing gum got me through many late nights of studying back in high school, and having access to a resource like the EXTRA Hours Hotline would have been super helpful," said actress and Ivy League graduate, Yara Shahidi. "Education is one of the keys to realizing one's dreams, and ensuring students have the right resources is important. I am so thrilled to partner with EXTRA in assisting students to find their focus this school year."

While chewing gum can't solve your homework problems for you, some studies have shown that it can help maintain focus and attention, so don't forget to pop in a piece while studying.12 But, if you need a bit more support, The EXTRA Hours Hotline has your back. It was created in response to EXTRA's recent survey uncovering the study and homework habits of high school students. Its most notable findings include that the majority struggle with distractions as soon as 10 minutes into their homework sessions; nearly half don't start their homework until the evening hours; and many, especially older students aged 15-17, find that their parents do not know how to help them with their homework. The survey also found that nearly three quarters of high school students turn to gum to help them focus while doing homework, studying or learning in class, which is why EXTRA is sharing tips, tricks and resources to help students find their focus.

"When our EXTRA gum survey found that many students struggle with finding adequate homework help late at night, we wanted to further our mission to help them find focus and the study support they need," said Maria Urista, Vice President, Gum & Mints at Mars Wrigley. "We hope the EXTRA Hours Hotline empowers students this new school season, reminding them that focus-friendly resources can be one click  or one stick of EXTRA gum  away."

"In our mission to help students achieve their highest education goals, we know of the pressures and struggles that can come with a new school year and more challenging curriculums," said Joshua HJ Park, CEO of The Princeton Review and Tutor.com. "We have a shared goal with EXTRA gum in reminding students that they're not alone and that access to support and much-needed focus is closer than they may realize."

The EXTRA Hours Hotline will be free to all students with access to a computer or smartphone. To join the hotline, visit www.EXTRAGum.com/Hotline to be directed to the platform and connected with an expert. To help students continue to fuel their focus all school year, those who participate in the Hotline will have access to discounted test-prep services from The Princeton Review for a year, and, if they sign up for this service, they will receive one free pack of EXTRA gum, while supplies last.

Gum fans nationwide can head to their local retailer to pick up EXTRA gum, including easy-to-share EXTRA Refreshers available in both fruit and mint flavors. For more focus-friendly tips and tricks, parents and students can visit extragum.com/focus or follow @EXTRAGum on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

*No Purchase Necessary to win sweepstakes. Open to legal residents 50 US/DC, 13 - 17. Sweepstakes ends 09/18/2023. Restrictions apply. For Official Rules, visit the official sweepstakes page at www.EXTRAgum.com/Hotline.

ABOUT MARS, INCORPORATED

Mars, Incorporated is driven by the belief that the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today. As a global, family-owned business, Mars is transforming, innovating, and evolving to make a positive impact on the world.

Across our diverse and expanding portfolio of quality confectionery, food, and pet care products and services, we employ 140,000+ dedicated Associates. With almost $45 billion in annual sales, we produce some of the world's best-loved brands including Ben's Original, CESAR, Cocoavia, DOVE, EXTRA, KIND, M&M's, SNICKERS, PEDIGREE, ROYAL CANIN, and WHISKAS. We are creating a better world for pets through our global network of pet hospitals and diagnostic services  including AniCura, BANFIELD, BLUEPEARL, Linnaeus and VCA  using cutting edge technology to develop breakthrough programs in genetic health screening and DNA testing.

For more information about Mars, please visit www.mars.com. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

ABOUT THE PRINCETON REVIEW

The Princeton Review is a leading tutoring, test prep, and college admissions services company. Every year, it helps millions of college- and graduate schoolbound students as well as working professionals achieve their education and career goals through its many education services and products. These include online and in-person courses delivered by a network of more than 4,000 teachers and tutors; online resources; a line of more than 150 print and digital books published by Penguin Random House; and dozens of categories of school rankings. Founded in 1981, The Princeton Review is now in its 42nd year. The company's Tutor.com brand, now in its 23rd year, is one of the largest online tutoring services in the U.S. It comprises a community of thousands of tutors who have delivered more than 24 million one-to-one tutoring sessions. The Princeton Review is headquartered in New York, NY. The Princeton Review is not affiliated with Princeton University. For more information, visit PrincetonReview.com and the company's Media Center. Follow the company on X (formerly Twitter) (@ThePrincetonRev) and Instagram (@theprincetonreview).

1Hirano and Onozuka. Biomed Res Int. 2015.

2 Miquel et al. Physiol Behav. 2019

Erin DeAngelo

Mars Wrigley

[email protected] Caroline Tobin

Weber Shandwick

[email protected]

SOURCE Mars, Incorporated
Sealed RF Connectors and Adapters Meet Needs in Mil/Defense Applications

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fairview Microwave, an Infinite Electronics brand and a leading provider of on-demand RF, microwave and millimeter-wave components, has announced the expansion of its hermetic adapters and connectors product line. These connectors and adapters meet the rigorous demands of military/defense customers and are engineered for environments that require a rugged seal.

Fairview's new hermetically sealed RF connectors and adapters meet the demands of military/defense applications.

The new line features hermetically sealed terminal connectors and bulkhead-mount adapters that are tailored to provide reliable sealing in extreme conditions. With diverse connector options that include BNC, N, TNC, SMA, 2.92 mm and 2.4 mm, they offer flexibility and compatibility with various applications.

Adhering to MIL-STD-348B connector interfaces, these products ensure the quality and reliability that the defense industry demands. Furthermore, they are built to perform in a wide range of temperatures, allowing for use in harsh environments.

The benefits of these advanced connectors and adapters are numerous. They are designed specifically for areas requiring a rugged seal, offering robust construction. The product line also has top-of-the-line electrical performance, standing up to even the most demanding tasks. Offering leak rates of 1x10-6 and 1x10-8 helium per second, these components guarantee reliability and efficiency.

"Our new line of hermetically sealed RF connectors and adapters shows our commitment to providing innovative solutions for the mil/defense sectors," said Product Line Manager Kevin Hietpas. "By combining rugged construction with superior electrical performance, we are ensuring that our customers have access to products that excel in extreme environments."

Fairview Microwave's new hermetically sealed RF connectors and adapters are in stock and available for same-day shipping. For inquiries, please call +1 (949) 261-1920.

About Fairview Microwave:

A leading supplier of on-demand RF and microwave products since 1992, Fairview offers immediate delivery of RF components including attenuators, adapters, coaxial cable assemblies, connectors, terminations and much more. All products are shipped same-day from the company's ISO 9001:2015-certified production facilities in Lewisville, Texas. Fairview Microwave is an Infinite Electronics brand.

About Infinite Electronics:

Based in Irvine, Calif., Infinite Electronics offers a broad range of components, assemblies and wired/wireless connectivity solutions to the aerospace/defense, industrial, government, consumer electronics, instrumentation, medical and telecommunications markets. Its brands include Pasternack, Fairview Microwave, L-com, MilesTek, ShowMeCables, NavePoint, INC Installs, Integra Optics, PolyPhaser, Transtector, KP Performance Antennas, RadioWaves and Aiconics. Infinite serves its customers with deep technical expertise and support. Its broad inventory is available for immediate shipment, fulfilling unplanned demand for engineers and technical buyers. Infinite is a Warburg Pincus portfolio company.

Press Contact:

Peter McNeil

Fairview Microwave

17792 Fitch

Irvine, Calif. 92614

+1 (978) 682-6936

SOURCE Fairview Microwave Inc.
Receives Award for Top Employer for Women

MEMPHIS, Tenn., Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- First Horizon Corporation, (NYSE: FHN or "First Horizon") has been recognized by Professional Women's Magazine as a 2023 Best of the Best Employer for women. Professional Woman's Magazine, now celebrating its 24th year, polled hundreds of Fortune 1000 companies for its Best of the Best evaluations in their efforts promoting the advancement of multicultural women in all aspects of business and employment.

"I am proud to work for a predominantly female organization that is consistently recognized for its commitment to gender diversity, equitable opportunities and an inclusive work environment," says Tanya Hart, executive vice president and chief human resources officer at First Horizon. "We continue to monitor the changing dynamics of the workforce and evolve our practices to achieve performance goals while fostering work life balance."

About Professional Woman's Magazine (PWM)

PWM covers news information ranging from professional concerns to civic affairs, trends, diversity careers and business. Every issue includes education, finance, health, technology, travel, the arts and family issues that impact the professional woman. We provide the latest, most important diversity news, covering virtually every industry, business and profession. This includes up-to-date statistics on workforce diversity, as well as business-to-business trends. We offer both recruitment and business opportunities, along with accurate, timely conferences and event calendars. And, just as importantly, we spotlight inspiring role models and notable mentors. PWM is a WBENC and DOBE-certified company.

About First Horizon

First Horizon Corp. (NYSE: FHN), with $85.1 billion in assets as of June 30, 2023, is a leading regional financial services company, dedicated to helping our clients, communities and associates unlock their full potential with capital and counsel. Headquartered in Memphis, TN, the banking subsidiary First Horizon Bank operates in 12 states across the southern U.S. The Company and its subsidiaries offer commercial, private banking, consumer, small business, wealth and trust management, retail brokerage, capital markets, fixed income, and mortgage banking services. First Horizon has been recognized as one of the nation's best employers by Fortune and Forbes magazines and a Top 10 Most Reputable U.S. Bank. More information is available at www.FirstHorizon.com.

SOURCE First Horizon Corporation
HOUSTON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Flotek Industries, Inc. ("Flotek" or the "Company") (NYSE: FTK) today announced it expects to report positive adjusted EBITDA(1) for the quarter ending September 30, 2023, accelerating its previous estimate of achieving this financial metric before year-end. Reaching positive adjusted EBITDA(1) builds upon the Company's improvement in its financial results over the last several quarters, highlighted by revenues and gross profit during the first half of 2023 increasing by approximately $56 million and $9 million, respectively, as compared to the first half of 2022. The Company expects that its third quarter 2023 adjusted EBITDA(1) will reflect the ninth consecutive quarter of improvement.

The Company also announced that its Board of Directors has approved a 1-for-6 reverse split of Flotek's common stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the "Reverse Stock Split"). The Reverse Stock Split will become effective after market close on September 25, 2023 (the "Effective Date"), and the shares of common stock are expected to begin trading on the split-adjusted basis under the Company's existing trading symbol, "FTK," when the market opens on September 26, 2023. The new CUSIP number following the Reverse Stock Split will be 343389409.

Ryan Ezell, Chief Executive Officer, stated, "Our results through the first half of 2023, combined with our confidence in reaching positive adjusted EBITDA(1) for the third quarter, clearly indicate continued improvement in all aspects of our business. Revenues, gross profit and adjusted EBITDA(1) during the first half of 2023 have increased significantly as compared to the first half of last year, while our balance sheet has improved through the conversion of debt to equity as well as the entry into an Asset Based Loan to enhance liquidity. We expect this strong financial momentum to continue into 2024."

On the Effective Date, the total number of shares of common stock held by each stockholder of the Company will be converted automatically into the number of shares of common stock equal to (i) the number of issued and outstanding shares of common stock held by each such stockholder immediately prior to the Reverse Stock Split, divided by (ii) 6, with such resulting number of shares rounded up to the nearest whole share. The Company will issue one whole share of the post-Reverse Stock Split common stock to any stockholder who otherwise would have received a fractional share as a result of the Reverse Stock Split. As a result, no fractional shares will be issued in connection with the Reverse Stock Split and no cash or other consideration will be paid in connection with any fractional shares that would otherwise have resulted from the Reverse Stock Split.

The Reverse Stock Split has no effect on the par value or on the number of authorized shares of common stock or preferred stock. Immediately after the Reverse Stock Split, each stockholder's percentage ownership interest in the Company and proportional voting power will remain unchanged, except for minor changes and adjustments that will result from the treatment of fractional shares. The rights and privileges of the holders of shares of common stock will be substantially unaffected by the Reverse Stock Split. The Company anticipates that the effect of the Reverse Stock Split will be sufficient to regain compliance with the New York Stock Exchange's continued listing standards, however, there can be no assurance that the Reverse Stock Split will have that effect, initially or in the future, or that it will enable the Company to maintain the listing of its common stock on the New York Stock Exchange.

Stockholders who are holding their shares in electronic form at brokerage firms do not need to take any action, as the effect of the Reverse Stock Split will automatically be reflected in their brokerage accounts. Stockholders holding paper certificates may (but are not required to) send the certificates to the Company's transfer agent and registrar, Equiniti. Equiniti will issue a new stock certificate reflecting the Reverse Stock Split to each requesting stockholder.

About Flotek Industries, Inc.

Flotek Industries, Inc. is an advanced technology-driven, green chemical and data analytics company providing unique and innovative completion solutions that have a proven, positive impact on sustainability and reducing the overall environmental impact of energy on air, land, water and people. Flotek has an intellectual property portfolio of over 170 patents and a global presence in more than 15 countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Middle East and North Africa. Flotek has established collaborative partnerships focused on sustainable and optimized chemistry and data solutions which improve well performance and allow its customers to generate higher returns on invested capital.

Flotek is based in Houston, Texas and its common shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "FTK". For additional information, please visit www.flotekind.com.

Forward -Looking Statements

Certain statements set forth in this press release constitute forward-looking statements (within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) regarding Flotek Industries, Inc.'s business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. Words such as will, continue, expects, anticipates, projects, intends, plans, believes, seeks, estimates and similar expressions or variations of such words are intended to identify forward-looking statements, but are not the exclusive means of identifying forward-looking statements in this press release. Although forward-looking statements in this press release reflect the good faith judgment of management, such statements can only be based on facts and factors currently known to management. Consequently, forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results and outcomes may differ materially from the results and outcomes discussed in the forward-looking statements.

(1) A non-GAAP financial measure. See our previously issued reconciliation of Non-GAAP items to the most comparable GAAP measures in connection with our second quarter 2023 earnings release. We are unable to reconcile this forward-looking non-GAAP financial measure to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure without unreasonable efforts, as we are unable to predict with a reasonable degree of certainty the impact of certain items that would be expected to impact the GAAP financial measure, including, among other items, the future amortization of our contract assets, certain stock-based compensation costs and the impact of the revaluation of certain liabilities, which is based upon our future stock price. These items do not impact the non-GAAP financial measure.

SOURCE Flotek Industries, Inc.
KITCHENER, ON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - FluidAI Medical, a leading artificial intelligence (AI) startup and developer of the Stream Platform for post-surgical monitoring, has announced a strategic partnership with Medtronic Canada ULC, a prominent subsidiary of the global healthcare technology company, Medtronic PLC. Together, they are working to revolutionize Canadian healthcare through the Continuous Connected Patient Care (CCPC) project under Canada's Global Innovation Cluster for digital technologies, known as DIGITAL.

Hospitalized patients, particularly those with serious complications, often remain in the hospital longer than necessary after their condition has stabilized. This extended stay is mainly for continued monitoring during their recovery. Hospital care can average between $1,000-2,000 per patient daily[1], utilizing resources like hospital beds, equipment, and healthcare workers' time, potentially reducing a hospital's capacity for new patients.

"Collaboration is key to develop new patient-centric solutions"  Rick Sethi, R&D Director at Medtronic. Post this

The CCPC project aims to allow patients to continue their care at home after discharge through the development of new predictive analytics, AI, and home monitoring technology that integrates with current medical systems for uninterrupted care from hospital to home.

Medtronic leads the CCPC project in partnership with a consortium of Canadian healthcare and technology leaders that includes Cloud DX, Excelar Technologies, Providence Health Care's St. Paul's Hospital, Providence Health Care Ventures, Simon Fraser University (SFU), Bridge Health Solutions (BHS), StarFish Medical (as a Medtronic sub-contractor), and most recently, FluidAI. Every consortium member contributes a distinct and essential element to build the integrated monitoring system.

"As healthcare delivery and patient needs change, it is important that we continue to evolve how we and our partners provide tools and support for our clinicians. Collaboration is key to develop new patient-centric solutions and augment our clinicians with personalized care for their patients."  Rick Sethi, R&D Director, Open Innovation and R&T at Medtronic.

Medtronic is exploring new technologies and leveraging a novel clinical-grade medical device. In parallel, FluidAI will enhance its current platform offering to enable at-home patient use, expand functionality to collaborate with the Medtronic device and develop a cloud platform to enable use of their platform in a remote patient monitoring setting and integrate with the consortium partner offerings.

Bridge Health Solutions will enhance its medication dispensing, tracking, and adherence monitoring solution. Excelar Technologies will improve its clinical data normalization module by incorporating remote patient monitoring and medication adherence tracking and enhancing its data visualization tools. Providence Health Care (PHC) and PHC Ventures are responsible for providing workflow, needs, patient and clinical requirements, validating and collaborating on the design and development of the final solution, data integration and governance. Clinicians from PHC's St. Paul's Hospital and Hamilton Health Sciences will conduct clinical trials and contribute by shaping the requirement specifications and designing the process.

Simon Fraser University (SFU) will gather input on user needs to guide the creation of the technology, clinical decision support framework, and user interfaces. Cloud DX will provide a secure, ISO-certified solution that features sophisticated tools for patient engagement and a clinician portal capable of safely monitoring thousands of patients. Finally, the project is supported by a $5.2M co-investment from DIGITAL, Canada's Global Innovation Cluster for digital technologies.

Ensuring the success and credibility of this initiative, the CCPC project team has incorporated a comprehensive testing and evaluation blueprint developed in collaboration with patients, families, clinicians, and industry experts. Their collective expertise will underpin the proof of the platform's efficacy and applicability.

About FluidAI Medical

FluidAI (formerly known as NERv Technology Inc.) is a Canadian medical technology company that uses AI to aid with the early detection of postoperative leaks. From general to gastrointestinal surgeries, FluidAI's mission is to empower healthcare providers with data-driven solutions that improve patient outcomes and advance postoperative care. To learn more about FluidAI and how the company is transforming postoperative care, please visit https://fluidai.md/.

About Medtronic Canada ULC

Proud to serve Canadian healthcare for over 50 years, Medtronic Canada ULC is headquartered in Brampton, Ontario, and is a subsidiary of Medtronic PLC. We are the leading global healthcare technology company that boldly attacks the most challenging health problems facing humanity by searching out and finding solutions. Our Mission  to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life  unites a global team of 90,000+ passionate people. Our technologies and therapies address 70 health conditions and include cardiac devices, surgical robotics, insulin pumps, surgical tools, patient monitoring systems, and more. Powered by our diverse knowledge, insatiable curiosity, and desire to help all those who need it, we deliver innovative technologies that transform the lives of two people every second, every hour, every day. Visit Medtronic.ca, and follow us on X and LinkedIn .

About DIGITAL

DIGITAL, Canada's Global Innovation Cluster for digital technologies, grows Canadian businesses through the development, adoption and deployment of Canadian-made technologies and by working with industry to develop a digitally skilled workforce to positively impact lives across our country. DIGITAL brings together businesses, academia, community and government agencies to solve some of industry and society's biggest challenges  better and faster than any single organization can do on its own. Through a powerful model that combines cross-sector collaboration, Canadian IP creation and results-based co-investment, they unlock the potential of Canadian industry to lead and succeed in the digital world. Ahead of the curve starts here. For more information, visit: https://www.digitalsupercluster.ca/

About Cloud DX

Accelerating digital healthcare, Cloud DX is on a mission to make healthcare better for everyone. The Connected Health remote patient monitoring platform is used by healthcare enterprises and care teams across North America to virtually manage chronic disease, enable aging in place, and deliver hospital-quality post-surgical care in the home. Our partners achieve better healthcare and patient outcomes, reduce the need for hospitalization or re-admission, and reduce healthcare delivery costs through more efficient use of resources. For more, visit www.CloudDX.com and follow @CloudDX on X and LinkedIn.

About Bridge Health Solutions

Bridge Health Solutions has developed a secure cloud-based prescription management system which supports patient adherence for all types of medications through the use of connected tamper-resistant devices. It is designed for people suffering from chronic diseases including older adults who could benefit from better medication adherence and vital monitoring. For more, visit www.bridgehealthsolutions.com.

About Excelar Technologies

Excelar's CareFlow platform is a privacy-by-design solution for clinical data integration, normalization, and data visualization. The platform consists of the CareFlow Broker for intelligent data processing, routing and data normalization, CareFlow Insight dashboards for patterns of practice clinical quality improvement, and CareFlow Timeline for the intuitive visualization of clinically relevant data using explainable AI. www.excelar.ca

About Providence Health Care Ventures

As an expert navigator of the Canadian health care, regulatory, and technology landscape, PHC Ventures provides indispensable support to corporate, institutional and individual innovators seeking to validate and commercialize their products and ideas. PHC Ventures offers a portal to Providence Health Care in Vancouver, Canada, a renowned provincial health organization whose lengthy innovation track record and size make it an ideal incubator to validate and scale innovations. PHC Ventures actively co-develops health solutions, forges unconventional partnerships, facilitates consulting relationships with PHC clinicians, and invests in health start-ups. For more, visit www.phcventures.ca

About Simon Fraser University

As Canada's engaged university, Simon Fraser University works with communities, organizations and partners to create, share and embrace knowledge that improves life and generates real change. We deliver a world-class education with lifelong value that shapes change-makers, visionaries and problem-solvers. We connect research and innovation to entrepreneurship and industry to deliver sustainable, relevant solutions to today's problems.

[1] This figure was calculated using the average length of stay and average cost of care reported by CIHI, 2021-2022: https://yourhealthsystem.cihi.ca/hsp/inbrief?lang=en#!/indicators/015/cost-of-a-standard-hospital-stay-cshs/

SOURCE Fluid AI Medical
NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The food storage container market is expected to grow by USD 12.93 billion from 2022 to 2027. In addition, the growth momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of 3.36% during the forecast period, according to Technavio. Growing preference for durable and lightweight containers is notably driving the food storage container market. However, factors such as Issues regarding health and environmental safety may impede market growth. The market is segmented by material (plastic, metal, glass, and paper), type (rigid packaging and flexible packaging), and geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and the Middle East and Africa). We provide a detailed analysis of 20 companies operating in the food storage container market including Accent-Fairchild Group, Amcor Plc, Anchor Glass Container Corp., Berry Global Inc., Crown Holdings Inc., Graham Packaging Co. LP, Graphic Packaging Holding Co., Hamilton Housewares Pvt. Ltd., Newell Brands Inc., Nilkamal Ltd., O I Glass Inc., Pactiv Evergreen Inc., Plastipak Holdings Inc., Printpack Inc., RING Container Technologies, S.C. Johnson and Son Inc., Shantou Mandun Plastic Co. Ltd., Sonoco Products Co., Sterilite Corp., and Tupperware Brands Corp. The report offers an up-to-date analysis of the market, and to know the exact growth variance and the Y-O-Y growth rate, Request a Free Sample Report.

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Food Storage Container Market 2023-2027

Food Storage Container Market 2023-2027: Company Analysis

Accent-Fairchild Group - The company offers food storage containers under its division Accent Home Products.

This report provides a full list of key companies, their strategies, and the latest developments. Buy Now for detailed company information

Food Storage Container Market 2023-2027: Segmentation

Material

The plastic segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. This is due to a variety of advantages such as portability, affordability, and convenience, plastic containers have become increasingly popular. The demand for plastic food storage containers in a range of sectors is also driven by the fact that they are easy to carry, pack, and store due to their low weight, making them suitable for daily use. The fact that this segment is shatterproof reduces the risks of breaking and food loss, making it a major advantage over glass containers. In addition, one of the main materials used to make plastic food containers is polypropylene (PP) and PE. The main advantage of these materials is that they have better durability, and better resistance to chemicals and water, thus ensuring the safe storage and transportation of food. Hence, these factors are expected to drive segment growth during the forecast period.

Geography

APAC is estimated to contribute 36% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Several key factors contributing significantly to the growth of the food containers market in the region are changing consumer preferences, increasing demand for convenience, and increasing focus on sustainable packaging solutions. India and China are the key revenue-generating countries in the Food Containers Market in the region. Furthermore, the main reasons for the market growth in these countries are the busy lifestyles and the increasing consumption of processed and packaged foods. In addition, the growing trend of eating on the go or ordering takeout is driving the demand for convenient and convenient packaging solutions. Hence, these factors are expected to drive market growth in the region during the forecast period.

Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View Free PDF Sample Report

Food Storage Container Market 2023-2027: Key Highlights

Historic Market Size 2017-2021

CAGR of the market during 2023-2027

Detailed information on factors that will assist food storage container market growth during the next five years

Estimation of the market size and its contribution to the parent market

Forecasts on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the food storage container market

Analysis of the competitive landscape and detailed information on companies

Comprehensive details of factors that will impede the growth of food storage container market companies

Related Reports:

The Global Food Container Market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 62.97 billion.

The glass bottles and containers market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.07% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 14.51 billion.

Food Storage Container Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 3.36% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 12.93 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 2.4 Regional analysis APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and the Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution APAC at 36% Key countries US, China, India, Japan, and Germany Competitive landscape Leading Companies, Market Positioning of Companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Accent-Fairchild Group, Amcor Plc, Anchor Glass Container Corp., Berry Global Inc., Crown Holdings Inc., Graham Packaging Co. LP, Graphic Packaging Holding Co., Hamilton Housewares Pvt. Ltd., Newell Brands Inc., Nilkamal Ltd., O I Glass Inc., Pactiv Evergreen Inc., Plastipak Holdings Inc., Printpack Inc., RING Container Technologies, S.C. Johnson and Son Inc., Shantou Mandun Plastic Co. Ltd., Sonoco Products Co., Sterilite Corp., and Tupperware Brands Corp. Market dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, Market condition analysis for the forecast period. Customization purview If our report has not included the data you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get customized segments.

ToC:

Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market Sizing

Historic Market Sizes

Five Forces Analysis

Market Segmentation by Material

Market Segmentation by Type

Market Segmentation by Geography

Customer Landscape

Geographic Landscape

Drivers, Challenges, & Trends

Company Landscape

Company Analysis

Appendix

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com

SOURCE Technavio
NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The fortified wine market size is expected to grow by USD 5.2 billion from 2022 to 2027, according to Technavio. In addition, the growth momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of 5.31% during the forecast period. The rising consumption rate of wine is notably driving the fortified wine market. However, factors such as Negative perception associated with forfeited wines may impede market growth. The market is segmented by product type (sherry, port, vermouth, and others), Distribution Channel (Off-trade and On-trade) and Geography (Europe, North America, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa). Technavio provides a comprehensive report summary describing the market size and forecast along with research methodology. The free sample report is available in PDF format

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Fortified Wine Market 2023-2027

Key Segment Analysis

The sherry segment will be significant during the forecast period. Its unique characteristics and high demand among wine enthusiasts worldwide cause sherry to hold a significant position in the global fortified wine market. Additionally, the unique flavor profile and food compatibility of sherry have made it a favorite among wine enthusiasts around the world. Also, its use as a cocktail ingredient has been renewed due to the growing demand for craft cocktails. Hence, such factors drive the growth of the sherry segment of the fortified wine market during the forecast period. To know additional highlights and key points on various market segments and their impact in coming years, View the Free PDF Sample Report.

Geographical Market Analysis

Europe will contribute 49% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Given its rich history and diverse wine-making regions, Europe has established itself as a key player in this industry. Furthermore, countries such as France , Italy , and Spain have been producing wine for centuries. Also, their expertise in winemaking is unrivaled. Such a expertise is reflected in the quality of the wines produced and has earned them a reputation for excellence. Hence, factors boost the growth of the fortified wine market in the European market during the forecast period.

Company Insights

The fortified wine market is fragmented, and the companies are deploying organic and inorganic growth strategies to compete in the market. The report analyzes the market's competitive landscape and offers information on several market companies, including:

Anchor Brewers and Distillers LLC, Bacardi Ltd., Campari Group, Contratto srl, DOWS Port, E. and J. Gallo Winery, Emilio Lustau S.A., Fonseca Port Wine, Fratelli Gancia and C. SpA, Mazurans Vineyards Ltd., Precept Wine, Ramos Pinto, Rhys and Rylee LLC, SOGEVINUS FINE WINES SA, Sogrape SGPS SA, Symington Family Estates Vinhos S.A., Taylors Port, The Great Wine Co., Vinbros and Co., Vinimark Trading Pty Ltd.

View the Free PDF Sample Report to find additional highlights on the growth strategies adopted by companies and their product offerings.

Related Reports:

The wine and spirits market size is projected to increase by USD 195.96 billion and the market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 3.32% between 2022 and 2027.

The organic wine market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.57% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 5,019.97 million.

Fortified Wine Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 5.31% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 5.2 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 4.48 Regional analysis Europe, North America, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution Europe at 49% Key countries US, France, Italy, Germany, and UK Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Anchor Brewers and Distillers LLC, Bacardi Ltd., Campari Group, Contratto srl, DOWS Port, E. and J. Gallo Winery, Emilio Lustau S.A., Fonseca Port Wine, Fratelli Gancia and C. SpA, Mazurans Vineyards Ltd., Precept Wine, Ramos Pinto, Rhys and Rylee LLC, SOGEVINUS FINE WINES SA, Sogrape SGPS SA, Symington Family Estates Vinhos S.A., Taylors Port, The Great Wine Co., Vinbros and Co., and Vinimark Trading Pty Ltd. Market dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, Market condition analysis for forecast period. Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized.

ToC:

Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market Sizing

Historic Market Sizes

Five Forces Analysis

Market Segmentation by Product Type

Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel

Market Segmentation by Geography

Customer Landscape

Geographic Landscape

Drivers, Challenges, & Trends

Company Landscape

Company Analysis

Appendix

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com

SOURCE Technavio
RADNOR, Pa., Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP (www.ktmc.com) informs investors that a securities class action lawsuit has been filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania against Shift4 Payments, Inc. ("Shift4") (NYSE: FOUR). The action charges Shift4 with violations of the federal securities laws, including omissions and fraudulent misrepresentations relating to the company's business, operations, and prospects. As a result of Shift4's materially misleading statements and omissions to the public, Shift4's investors have suffered significant losses.

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR SHIFT4 LOSSES. YOU CAN ALSO CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK OR COPY AND PASTE IN YOUR BROWSER: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/shift4-payments-inc?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=four&mktm=r

TO VIEW OUR VIDEO, PLEASE CLICK HERE

LEAD PLAINTIFF DEADLINE: OCTOBER 19, 2023

CLASS PERIOD: NOVEMBER 10, 2021 THROUGH APRIL 18, 2023

CONTACT AN ATTORNEY TO DISCUSS YOUR RIGHTS:

Jonathan Naji, Esq. at (484) 270-1453 or via email at [email protected]

Kessler Topaz is one of the world's foremost advocates in protecting the public against corporate fraud and other wrongdoing. Our securities fraud litigators are regularly recognized as leaders in the field individually and our firm is both feared and respected among the defense bar and the insurance bar. We are proud to have recovered billions of dollars for our clients and the classes of shareholders we represent.

SHIFT4'S ALLEGED MISCONDUCT

The Class Period begins on November 10, 2021, when Shift4 issued a shareholder letter before markets opened, announcing the company's Q3 2021 financial results. In the shareholder letter, the company recorded $19.3 million of customer acquisition costs in the investing activities section of its unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, as well as $25.6 million in net cash provided by operating activities, for the nine months ended September 30, 2021.

On October 21, 2022, Shift4 disclosed in an SEC filing that certain of its financial statements should no longer be relied upon and would need to be restated because of a material weakness in the company's financial controls, which had caused it to incorrectly treat "customer acquisition costs" as cash used in investing activities rather than cash used in operating activities in its Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. As a result, Shift4 was forced to negatively revise its net cash provided by operating activities in certain past financial statements. On this news, Shift4's stock price fell $1.21 per share, or 2.67%, to close at $44.16 per share on October 24, 2022.

Then, on April 19, 2023, market analyst Blue Orca Capital published a report alleging that Shift4 "engaged in a string of highly questionable and hyperaggressive accounting maneuvers seemingly designed to keep the stock afloat," including "cash flow manipulation" and "inexplicable distributor acquisitions that enabled it to capitalize a major component of COGS." The report also indicated that Shift4 engaged in unreported related-party transactions and that the company's questionable accounting maneuvers "inflated 2022 gross profit by 13%, Adj. EBITDA by 34%, and operating income by close to 3x."

Following this news, Shift4's stock price fell $5.95 per share, or 8.68%, to close at $62.59 per share on April 19, 2023.

WHAT CAN I DO?

Shift4 investors may, no later than October 19, 2023, move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff for the class, through Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP or other counsel, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP encourages Shift4 investors who have suffered significant losses to contact the firm directly to acquire more information. The class action complaint against Shift4, O'Meara v. Shift4 Payments, Inc., et al., Case No. 23-cv-03206, is filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania before the Honorable Joseph F. Leeson Jr.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE CASE

WHO CAN BE A LEAD PLAINTIFF?

A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation. The lead plaintiff is usually the investor or small group of investors who have the largest financial interest and who are also adequate and typical of the proposed class of investors. The lead plaintiff selects counsel to represent the lead plaintiff and the class and these attorneys, if approved by the court, are lead or class counsel. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision of whether or not to serve as a lead plaintiff.

ABOUT KESSLER TOPAZ MELTZER & CHECK, LLP

Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP prosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country and around the world. The firm has developed a global reputation for excellence and has recovered billions of dollars for victims of fraud and other corporate misconduct. All of our work is driven by a common goal: to protect investors, consumers, employees and others from fraud, abuse, misconduct and negligence by businesses and fiduciaries. The complaint in this action was not filed by Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP. For more information about Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP please visit www.ktmc.com.

CONTACT:

Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP

Jonathan Naji, Esq.

280 King of Prussia Road

Radnor, PA 19087

(484) 270-1453

[email protected]

SOURCE Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP
Interfax-Ukraine to host press conference 'Threat to existence of domestic production due to anti-state position of State Auditors Service, law enforcement agencies'

On Friday, September 15, at 15.00, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine News Agency will host a press conference entitled "Threat to existence of domestic production due to anti-state position of State Auditors Service, law enforcement agencies."

The facts of the pressure of law enforcement agencies on enterprises fulfilling the state defense order and the order in the field of security, threatening to stop enterprises and disrupt the supply of products necessary for the front, will be made public. The reason for the pressure was the conclusion of the State Auditors Service of Ukraine, which demands to return the already taxable profits of enterprises fulfilling state orders for 2022.

Participants include

Director General of the Ukrainian Armored Vehicles company Vladyslav Belbas;

head of the All-Ukrainian Association of Employers of Light Industry Oleksandr Sokolovsky;

Deputy Director General for Legal Affairs of LLC Pozhmashina industrial company Roman Sereda;

moderator Taras Zahorodniy (8/5a Reitarska Street).

The event will be streamed on the Interfax-Ukraine YouTube channel. Admission of journalists requires registration on the spot.
If People Went to Jail for "Bridgegate,"

Who Is Accountable for 200 NJ Veterans' Deaths?

COLTS NECK, N.J., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Last week, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) issued a damning report that said New Jersey's state-run nursing homes for veterans violated residents' constitutional rights by failing to provide adequate safety in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The DOJ's investigation also reported that the state still has failed to bring both facilities into compliance with current standards of care.

The Murphy administration wants this news to fade away. But that can't happen until these questions are answered: Who is accountable for the deaths of more than 200 veterans? And who is accountable for failing to fix all that was wrong in these facilities?

It's painfully clear that leadership failures occurred across the board -- within the Murphy administration, in the state legislature and in the facilities themselves. People at all three levels need to be held accountable.

In April 2020, it was the Murphy administration that directed the veterans' homes not to turn away Covid-positive patients  a move that was in direct violation of CDC guidance, as first reported by Paul Mulshine of The Star Ledger. Instead, Covid-positive patients were sent directly into veterans' homes in Paramus and Menlo Park, where the virus would spread like wildfire and claim at least 200 veterans' lives. Deaths were likely undercounted due to poor clinical procedures, per the report.

Compounding the problem with the veterans' homes, Senator Vin Gopal, then chairman of the Senate Military and Veterans' Affairs Committee, refused to investigate the state's failings. When Senator Nia Gil (D-Essex) demanded lawmakers vote in favor of investigating the deaths with subpoena power, Gopal and his colleagues shut her down. Then a bipartisan group of Senators proposed legislation to upgrade the homes to prevent further deaths and tragedy. Again, Gopal refused, obviously in deference to the Murphy administration.

Finally, the report outlines numerous operational and safety failures at both veterans' homes. Later, when the DOJ came back to check to see if the facilities had made any changes, DOJ investigators reported that staff members were instructed not to cooperate with their questioning.

If not for this forced DOJ investigation, none of these findings would have been made public. And now, no one in Trenton is accepting responsibility.

Murphy described the DOJ report as "deeply disturbing." But he accepted no responsibility.

Gopal issued a statement blaming the Murphy administration, saying that during the time in question, the legislature was ignored. That cowardly comment comes from the elected official who was vested with the responsibility to protect our veterans. Instead, Gopal protected Murphy. And like Murphy, Gopal accepts no responsibility.

The veterans who died in these nursing homes served our country in wars, conflicts and duty around the world. And yet, they were killed right here at home  not in battle with a foreign enemy, but something much worse. They died or were placed in harm's way because of politicians unable to lead, and cowards unwilling to accept responsibility. Is there any greater disrespect that this state can demonstrate to the families of those who died?

The state has paid a multi-million dollar in this matter settlement and has acknowledged negligence. But that's just not sufficient in this case. People in leadership roles need to be held accountable.

Several years ago, Christie administration officials went to jail for their roles in the "Bridgegate" debacle. A disgraceful situation for sure, but no one died in that case.

In this case, more than 200 veterans perished. So, who is accountable for the actions that contributed to the deaths of these veterans? And who is accountable for failing to keep veterans safe, in line with their constitutional rights, at these facilities?

The families of these veterans  and the entire veterans' community  deserve more than a fresh batch of hollow promises from cowards in Trenton who are unwilling to accept responsibility. These families deserve justice. As veterans know, real leaders own their mistakes. But here, you see, we're not dealing with actual leaders; we're dealing with politicians who want to deflect attention and move on. We cannot allow that to happen. We must ensure that those responsible on all three levels are held accountable. That's what the people expect from their public officials. And that's what all veterans deserve.

Steve Dnistrian is a first-time candidate running for the NJ State Senate in the 11th Legislative District in Monmouth County, where Marilyn Piperno and Kim Eulner are the current assemblywomen seeking re-election. www.SteveforNJ.com

Media Contact

[email protected]

SOURCE STEVE for Senate
LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The explosive documentary  Lava Bombs: Truths Behind the Volcano  won an award for Best Cinematography in a documentary at the prestigious Madrid International Film Festival.

The dramatic Spanish and English language film from GeoTenerife and New Light Studio captures the emotional stories behind the crisis and the response to the September 19 2021 eruption of the volcano in Cumbre Vieja, La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain.

Image of volcanic eruption in La Palma by Samuel Caceres for GeoTenerife

Lava Bombs reveals the stories behind the headlines and showcases the power of the major natural disaster through the voices of the local people impacted, emergency managers, scientists and politicians with spectacular aerial footage of the volcano in dramatic 4K.

The film has received many other accolades, including outstanding excellence at the Nature Without Borders International Film Festival and semi-finalist in the Dublin Movie Awards.

Sharon Backhouse, founder and Director of educational volcanic fieldwork specialists, GeoTenerife ( https://geotenerife.com ), was on the scene when the Tajogaite volcano erupted nearly two years ago. She mobilised her team to document events as they occurred, providing an intimate, authentic and intense record.

Scottish-based film director Alexander Whittle quickly arrived in La Palma and drove the narrative, interpreting numerous contributing film records through the eyes of a big screen director.

Film participant Jaime Salvador Diaz Pacheco, Assistant Professor, Physical Geography, University of La Laguna (ULL) and GEORIESGOS (GEORISKS) Researcher said, "The stories behind and beyond the volcano need to be told. Lava Bombs does this from a social perspective. It transports you to La Palma at the end of 2021 during the latest volcanic event in the Canary Islands that made international headlines. The documentary takes you deep into how everyone felt before, during and after this violent episode. This is a great resource to improve our resilience to catastrophic natural disasters and inform disaster management around the globe."

The hour-long film is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime (Watch Lava Bombs Truths Behind The Volcano | Prime Video (amazon.co.uk)) and Google Play (Lava Bombs - Truths Behind The Volcano - Movies on Google Play).

About GeoTenerife

GeoTenerife is a UK and Spanish company. Sharon Backhouse said: "We were heartbroken when we witnessed what was happening in La Palma and feel the real impacts of the disaster have not been fully understood. We have spent two years documenting the eruption and its aftermath because we believe so many lessons can be learned, so people living in areas of volcanic risk can be helped better. And we self-financed the film ourselves, to ensure we could have complete freedom over the narrative.

"Our second documentary, Lava Bombs 2: The Reconstruction, is out soon. La Palma is struggling to recover from the violent catastrophe it suffered, and it's only when we tell real stories in the words of those directly affected that we understand the deep impact of what has happened. These films are our love letter to Palmeros, to make sure their voices are heard far and wide because headlines and promises are not enough: La Palma needs help."

GeoTenerife is a science company that organises tailor-made field trips for international universities and schools, based at its historic headquarters in Tenerife. They run innovative training camps for young scientists in collaboration with local, national and international experts and institutions. The GeoTenerife camps combine educational elements with hands-on work experience in some truly privileged environments including the Teide National Park. They offer fully funded scholarships for all their programmes and over the last decade have supported students from all over the world to train in the Canary Islands.

Further information: GeoTenerife website: https://geotenerife.com

Behind Lava Bombs is an ongoing scientific research project funded by GeoTenerife. VolcanoStories ( https://geotenerife.com/volcanostories ) is an open-access research initiative which brings together intimate testimonies, scientific research and educational resources relating to the 2021 eruption and captures regular updates on post-eruption life in La Palma. It includes 3D models of the volcano and lava flows and an interactive timeline of events. The project also fosters collaborations between GeoTenerife and local, national and international scientific institutions.

Lava Bombs film website: https://lavabombsfilm.com/

Lava Bombs Film Trailer: https://youtu.be/hoo0QmO4FZg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210360/GeoTenerife.jpg

SOURCE GeoTenerife
COPENHAGEN, Denmark, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- With a total commitment of EUR 443 million (DKK 3.3 billion) from anchor investors Novo Holdings and PKA and several other investors, Glentra Capital ('Glentra') today announced the first close of its energy transition fund, Glentra Fund I. Based in Copenhagen and London, Glentra is a newly established investment firm with an ambition to accelerate the energy transition for a clean and sustainable future.

Energy transition is the most urgent and complex challenge society faces today. To meet the UN climate goals, investments in renewable energy need to increase substantially, and the way energy is produced, distributed and consumed worldwide must undergo rapid transformation. Glentra Fund I is positioned to leverage this opportunity and identify profitable investments that will benefit its investors and the planet.

Glentra Fund I will invest in and grow great companies that lead in the development and deployment of renewable energy such as offshore and onshore wind, solar, sustainable fuels, energy storage, electric mobility and other related sectors. With a commitment to promote environmental, social and governance (ESG) measures, the fund seeks to drive positive change while delivering attractive returns for its investors.

Glentra is headed by founding Partners Henrik Tordrup and Lars Villadsen, both of whom will be investing a significant amount of their own wealth into the fund. Henrik Tordrup has a background with rsted and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), where he had a leading role in establishing CIP's global investment platform, and Lars Villadsen has a background with Vestas as part of the senior management team in North America. In addition, Glentra comprises a diverse team of investment and industry professionals with deep experience from the renewable energy and investment industries.

Henrik Tordrup, Managing Partner at Glentra, said: "We are thrilled to announce the first close of Glentra Fund I. This milestone represents a significant step forward in our mission to accelerate the transition towards a future based on sustainable energy sources while creating value for portfolio companies and investors. Only by creating value and attractive risk-adjusted returns are we truly able to accelerate the transformation that is needed. We are grateful for the trust and confidence in this vision that our investors have shown us, and we look forward to partnering with them to make a lasting impact on the energy landscape."



Partner and co-founder at Glentra, Lars Villadsen, added: "Since our establishment, we have been busy building the team and engaging in conversations with interesting companies that share our vision and clearly see the value in partnering with Glentra by incorporating us in their ownership structure."

Novo Holdings and pension fund PKA are pleased to be part of Glentra's journey and are aligned with Glentra's vision.

Morten Beck Jrgensen, Managing Partner, Capital Investments, Novo Holdings, said: "We are proud to be a co-founder of Glentra, and a large anchor investor and limited partner in Glentra Fund I. At Novo Holdings, we firmly believe in the importance of investing to accelerate energy transition and promote sustainable development. By supporting Glentra and Glentra Fund I, we aim to drive positive change within the energy sector and contribute to a more sustainable future, which aligns with Novo Holdings' purpose of improving people's health and the sustainability of society and the planet by generating attractive long-term returns on the assets of the Novo Nordisk Foundation."

Michael Nellemann Pedersen, Chief Investment Officer at PKA, said: "PKA is determined to continuously play an active role in the global energy transition. We engage in investments that make an impact towards a future relying solely on renewable energy and simultaneously generate a high financial return for our members. Furthermore, PKA is very pleased to be an anchor investor and large limited partner in Glentra Fund I alongside like-minded and professional partners such as Novo Holdings that share our view on the necessity of investing in and contributing to a more sustainable world for generations to come."

Investing in the global energy transition has evolved from asset-by-asset investments into a growth industry with underlying infrastructure characteristics that provides resilient and predictable revenues. Consequently, Glentra will leverage and scale the experience of the team to support companies operating within energy transition.

The first close of Glentra Fund I marks an important milestone that paves the way for further investments and partnerships within the energy transition space. Glentra Fund I has commitments of approximately 60% of the EUR 750 million target size and is actively engaging with additional investors and expects to hold subsequent closings in the coming months.

About Glentra Capital

Glentra Capital ('Glentra') was founded in 2022 by senior executives from the renewable energy and fund management industries, with the vision to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns while accelerating the global energy transition for a clean and sustainable future. Glentra will contribute to this vision by investing in and growing exceptional companies that deliver the energy infrastructure of tomorrow via investments in development platforms ranging from offshore wind to solar and sustainable fuels and in their supply chain companies as well as in energy optimisation and integration businesses. The geographical investment focus is on Europe and North America due to the fundamentally attractive energy transition environments.

Today, the company employs a total of 16 people across its two offices in Copenhagen and London. The mix of industry and investment experience among Glentra's partners and team of employees secures a unique platform for growth and value creation for portfolio companies and investors.

www.glentra.com.



About Novo Holdings A/S

Novo Holdings is a holding and investment company that is responsible for managing the assets and the wealth of the Novo Nordisk Foundation. The purpose of Novo Holdings is to improve people's health and the sustainability of society and the planet by generating attractive long-term returns on the assets of the Novo Nordisk Foundation.

Wholly owned by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, Novo Holdings is the controlling shareholder of Novo Nordisk A/S and Novozymes A/S and manages an investment portfolio with a long-term return perspective. In addition to managing a broad portfolio of equities, bonds, real estate, infrastructure and private equity assets, Novo Holdings is a world-leading life sciences investor. Through its Seeds, Venture, Growth, and Principal Investments teams, Novo Holdings invests in life science companies at all stages of development. As of year-end 2022, Novo Holdings had total assets of EUR 108 billion.

www.novoholdings.dk

About the Novo Nordisk Foundation

Established in Denmark in 1924, the Novo Nordisk Foundation is an enterprise foundation with philanthropic objectives. The vision of the Foundation is to improve people's health and the sustainability of society and the planet. The Foundation's mission is to progress research and innovation in the prevention and treatment of cardiometabolic and infectious diseases as well as to advance knowledge and solutions to support a green transformation of society. www.novonordiskfonden.dk/en

About PKA

PKA is one of Denmark's largest pension funds. We provide lifelong security to a community of over 355,000 members, primarily from the social work and healthcare sectors. The members are also our owners. On their behalf, we manage assets of DKK 400 billion (EUR 54 billion), which we invest, among other things, in solar, wind and global goals.

The transaction is structured and managed by Maj Invest Equity on behalf of PKA.

www.pka.dk





SOURCE Novo Holdings
DUBLIN, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Interior Lighting Market Size, Share & Industry Trends Analysis Report By Lighting Effect, By Product, By Type, By End Use (Commercial, Residential, and Industrial), By Regional Outlook and Forecast, 2023 - 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global interior lighting market is expected to witness substantial growth, reaching a projected value of $115.1 billion by 2030, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.2% during the forecast period.

This market growth is driven by various factors, including the increasing use of decorative lamps in the residential sector and the growing emphasis on creating visually appealing and energy-efficient lighting systems.

Decorative lamps, which generated $6.5 billion in revenue in 2022, have become a popular choice in residential settings. People are increasingly focused on enhancing the aesthetics of their homes, and decorative lighting plays a significant role in creating visually interesting spaces. Lighting not only affects the perceived size of a room but also contributes to the overall ambiance and atmosphere. Modern decor now considers lighting fixtures as a seamless blend of design and functionality, creating warm, inviting, and functional environments.

Several factors are influencing the interior lighting market's growth:

Demand for Energy-Efficient Lighting: There is a growing need for energy-efficient lighting systems, driven by environmental concerns and rising energy costs. Supportive government regulations are also encouraging the adoption of energy-efficient lighting solutions.

There is a growing need for energy-efficient lighting systems, driven by environmental concerns and rising energy costs. Supportive government regulations are also encouraging the adoption of energy-efficient lighting solutions. Rise of Smart Lighting Systems: Smart lighting systems are gaining popularity due to their ability to provide control and automation over lighting products. These systems, which are often part of the Internet of Things (IoT), allow users to control lighting components through mobile apps. As a result, the market for smart lighting is expected to expand significantly.

Smart lighting systems are gaining popularity due to their ability to provide control and automation over lighting products. These systems, which are often part of the Internet of Things (IoT), allow users to control lighting components through mobile apps. As a result, the market for smart lighting is expected to expand significantly. Security Concerns with IoT Smart Lighting: While IoT-connected lighting offers convenience, it also poses security challenges. Connected lights create a network of LED fixtures, and if not properly secured, hackers could potentially gain access to sensitive data or even control elements of a smart home. Security concerns could potentially hamper market expansion.

The growing global population is contributing to increased residential and commercial construction, leading to a higher demand for electricity. Many countries are focusing on phasing out inefficient lighting sources, such as incandescent bulbs, in favor of energy-efficient alternatives like LED lighting. LED lights are known for their long lifespan, cost-saving benefits, and high efficiency.

Key Market Segments:

Lighting Effect: The market is segmented by lighting effect, including downlighting, perimeter lighting, wall grazing, uplighting, spotlighting, and others.

The market is segmented by lighting effect, including downlighting, perimeter lighting, wall grazing, uplighting, spotlighting, and others. Product: Products in the market include ceiling lights, chandeliers, pendant lights, recessed and surface-mounted lights, wall lights, decorative lamps, clamp lights, track lights, spots and spotlights, and others.

Products in the market include ceiling lights, chandeliers, pendant lights, recessed and surface-mounted lights, wall lights, decorative lamps, clamp lights, track lights, spots and spotlights, and others. Type: Lighting types encompass ambient lighting, accent lighting, task lighting, general lighting, and mood lighting.

Lighting types encompass ambient lighting, accent lighting, task lighting, general lighting, and mood lighting. End-use: The market caters to commercial, residential, and industrial sectors.

Companies Mentioned

Lena Lighting S.A.

Karice Lighting

Jaquar Group

WLS Lighting Systems, Inc

Wipro Lighting (Wipro Enterprises Private Limited)

Trilux Gmbh

EST Lights

ERCO GmbH

Russell Lighting

Kichler Lighting LLC (Masco Corporation)

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/6rir1c

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900



U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Research and Markets
GoodGoblin.ai democratizes US college admissions using top-tier AI, offering an innovative, accessible application platform.

SAN JOSE, Calif., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GoodGoblin.ai, the AI-powered platform designed to simplify and elevate the college application experience, has effectively empowered more than 9,500 students spanning the US, India, Europe, and other regions. Catering to those deterred by the costs or unconvinced by the value of traditional college consultants, the platform offers a more equitable, efficient, and superior approach to college admissions help.

"From our inception, we've reached out to students from 28 diverse countries, providing them with unparalleled tools to craft standout essays and streamline their entire application journey," says Ashish Bhargava, Co-Founder of GoodGoblin.ai.

GoodGoblin.ai's impact resonates beyond mere numbers: a significant 325% surge in users and feedback indicating that 92% of users found the process more organized underscores GoodGoblin.ai's impact.

Through a blend of human creativity and cutting-edge AI, the platform empowers students from anywhere worldwide to represent themselves in US college applications. Beyond mere spelling and grammar checks, it enables students to bring authenticity to the forefront of their essays.

"GoodGoblin.ai isn't in the business of writing essays for students," Bhargava clarifies. "Our purpose is to guide, offer narrative suggestions, and help students discover their true voice."

Benefits You'll Love:

Dashboard Simplified: Intuitively manage deadlines, college choices, and essay drafts.

Intuitively manage deadlines, college choices, and essay drafts. Stress-Free Applications: Streamline your process for a smoother experience.

Streamline your process for a smoother experience. AI-Powered Essay Guidance: Tailored insights to help you highlight your story authentically.

Tailored insights to help you highlight your story authentically. Advanced Essay Review: Ensure your essays shine with cutting-edge AI checks.

Committed to staying at the forefront of technological advancements, GoodGoblin.ai has incorporated six state-of-the-art LLM models within its platform, reinforcing its dedication to providing only the best AI technology.

"Our mission is unequivocal," states Bhargava. "We are set on democratizing the college admissions process, extending elite-level guidance to all students, regardless of their financial capabilities."

High school senior Jessica Lin opines, "The convenience of having a single platform to consolidate colleges, essays, and personal stories, and that too without any cost, revolutionized my application experience." Echoing this, recent applicant Sophia Martinez shares, "GoodGoblin.ai bridged the gap between my European insights and US college expectations seamlessly."

Dive deeper into GoodGoblin.ai's methodologies by exploring their insightful blogs:

"As our platform continues to evolve, our pledge remains consistent: to amplify students' unique voices worldwide, without ever eclipsing them," asserts Bhargava.

Highlighting its cost-effective approach and the substantial benefits of its free tier, the platform has earned notable endorsements. College counselor Robert Yang emphatically suggests, " I urge every high schooler entering their senior year to leverage GoodGoblin.ai's free resources. The advantages are truly game-changing."

To embark on your college application journey or to learn more, visit https://www.goodgoblin.ai/ .

About GoodGoblin.ai

GoodGoblin.ai is an innovative and affordable AI platform that revolutionizes the college application process. Designed for students worldwide aspiring to attend US colleges, GoodGoblin.ai harnesses the power of advanced AI to streamline applications and helps you create compelling, personalized essays. We create personalized AI models that assist you in creating distinctive essays for each college prompt. We also provide AI integrity checks to authenticate the originality of your essay. We aim to make the application process more efficient and stress-free and significantly increase the chances of securing dream college admissions. Our mission is to democratize access to higher education, equipping every student with the tools needed to showcase their strengths and potential regardless of background.

Press Contact:

Lisa Connley

4085024862

https://www.goodgoblin.ai/

SOURCE GoodGoblin.ai
Episode Featuring Leading Holistic Health Voice Mariel Hemingway Now Live; UFC Champion Miesha Tate, and Dr. Dale Bredesen, MD Releasing Soon

NEW BERN, N.C., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Launching today, "Brain Fitness Podcast with Dr. Patrick Porter," plugs listeners into engaging discussions with health and wellness leaders to offer actionable tools and solutions that support brain fitness in the modern world. Host Patrick K. Porter, PhD also brings expertise in brainwave entrainment, and each episode is encoded with audio tone frequencies in the background that foster an active learning state, heightened focus, and enhanced memory and recall. Listeners using any headphones or earbuds will have the option to experience this added benefit.

Dr. Patrick Porter, PhD, Founder of BrainTap, will host the new "Brain Fitness Podcast with Dr. Patrick Porter." Post this Brain Fitness Podcast with Dr. Patrick Porter On the "Brain Fitness Podcast with Dr. Patrick Porter," host Patrick K. Porter, PhD also brings expertise in brainwave entrainment, and each episode is encoded with audio tone frequencies in the background that foster an active learning state, heightened focus, and enhanced memory and recall.

The podcast is available for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.

"I'm excited to launch 'Brain Fitness Podcast with Dr. Patrick Porter' as the first podcast that improves brain performance while listening," said Dr. Patrick Porter, PhD, Founder of BrainTap. "My guests and I will explore cutting-edge brain health topics and reveal ways we all can support our own brain fitness  all while listeners experience the added benefit of brainwave entrainment encoded into each episode.

A deeper look at upcoming episodes, include:

Mariel Hemingway  Available September 14, 2023  As a health advocate who has spent a lifetime studying how mental and physical health are linked, Mariel Hemingway joins Dr. Patrick Porter to discuss how to practice brain fitness to improve mental wellness and boost overall happiness.





 Available  As a health advocate who has spent a lifetime studying how mental and physical health are linked, joins Dr. to discuss how to practice brain fitness to improve mental wellness and boost overall happiness. Miesha Tate  Available September 21, 2023  Listen as Miesha Tate , noteworthy women's MMA fighter and UFC  Women's Bantamweight Champion, discusses why brain fitness is important for martial arts training. Discover effective strategies to improve performance as well as mental strength.





 Available  Listen as , noteworthy women's MMA fighter and UFC Women's Bantamweight Champion, discusses why brain fitness is important for martial arts training. Discover effective strategies to improve performance as well as mental strength. Dr. Dale Bredesen , MD  Available September 28, 2023  Dr. Dale Bredesen , MD is the foremost authority on the reversal of cognitive decline for those experiencing Alzheimer's symptoms. In this episode, the world-renowned neuroscience researcher and neurodegenerative disease expert discusses why he believes it's possible to make Alzheimer's disease and dementia "optional."

To learn more about host Dr. Patrick Porter, follow him on YouTube at @DrPatrickPorter, Instagram at @DrPatrickPorter, Facebook at /DrPatrickPorter and visit drpatrickporter.com.

To listen to "Brain Fitness Podcast with Dr. Patrick Porter," visit https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brain-fitness-podcast-with-dr-patrick-porter/id1707051973

About Dr. Patrick Porter

Dr. Porter is the founder of BrainTap and is on a mission to better a billion brains. He has over three decades of experience in brainwave entrainment, a method of using sound and light to alter brainwave patterns and induce a state of relaxation, focus, and creativity. He has worked with thousands of clients, including professional athletes, business executives, and celebrities helping them improve mental performance and achieve their goals.

Dr. Porter is a regular contributor to top-tier media publications and a frequent guest on popular TV news broadcasts, including KTLA Los Angeles and FOX 32 Chicago, as well as Discovery Channel. He is the author of "Thrive in Overdrive: How to Navigate Your Overloaded Lifestyle and Awaken the Genius: Mind Technology for the 21st Century."

About Brain Fitness Podcast with Dr. Patrick Porter

Hosted by renowned brainwave entrainment expert Dr. Patrick Porter, PhD., "Brain Fitness Podcast with Dr. Patrick Porter" offers engaging discussions with top names in health and wellness with expertise in brain performance. It is the only podcast to offer brainwave entrainment, encoded with audio frequencies in the background, to foster an active learning state, heightened focus, and enhanced memory and recall. Geared for anyone who wants to learn how to unlock the full potential of their brain, episodes release weekly and feature engaging discussions with guests who explore the latest developments in neuroscience, brain health, biohacking, and personal development.

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brain-fitness-podcast-with-dr-patrick-porter/id1707051973

Contact:

Stanton & Company

Alafair Hall

[email protected]

415-730-9044

SOURCE BrainTap
NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hach Rose Schirripa & Cheverie, LLP has commenced an investigation into possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law by certain officers and directors at Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. ("Hawaiian Electric" or the "Company"). Hawaiian Electric is the largest supplier of electricity in the State of Hawaii, supplying power to 95% of Hawaii's population through its electric utilities: Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc., Hawai'i Electric Light Company, Inc. and Maui Electric Company, Limited.

In early August 2023, a series of wind-driven wildfires broke out in the U.S. state of Hawaii, predominantly on the island of Maui. The fires caused widespread damage and killed at least 115 people. On August 27, 2023, Hawaiian Electric acknowledged that the fire appears to have been caused by Hawaiian Electric power lines that fell during high winds.

Hach Rose Schirripa & Cheverie LLP's investigation is focused on Hawaiian Electric's failure to take the appropriate steps to strengthen its aging equipment, modernize its electric grid and adopt emergency plans in light of the Company's knowledge that extreme weather, including the risk of fires, was becoming a growing danger. Specifically, the investigation focuses on whether the Company's failure to update its equipment may have played a role in igniting the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century.

Hach Rose Schirripa & Cheverie, LLP specializes in the fields of securities, corporate governance and consumer protection litigation. The firms' attorneys have successfully litigated complex class actions in both state and federal courts through the United States and are committed to protecting investors' assets and victims of corporate wrongdoing.

If you are a current shareholder of Hawaiian Electric common stock, plan to continue to hold your shares, and would like more information about your rights as a shareholder, please contact attorney Kathryn A. Hettler at (212) 213-8311 or by email at [email protected].

SOURCE Hach Rose Schirripa & Cheverie LLP
LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a comprehensive research report by Brandessence Market Research (BMRC), "Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Technology, By Application, By End-User, By Deployment Type, Based On Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2021- 2028". The Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market was valued at USD 23.03 Billion in 2021 and expected to reach USD 108.45 Billion by 2028, amplifying with a CAGR of 24.78% over 2021-2028.

The application of cognitive computing technologies in the healthcare domain is referred to as healthcare cognitive computing. It is worth noting that cognitive computing is a part of AI that is equipped with the ability to simulate human thought processes and enhance decision-making by using data analysis, pattern recognition, natural language processing, and machine learning algorithms. These computing systems can process a large volume of healthcare data and interpret them with ease. This in turn allows healthcare professionals to make informed decisions.

This business intelligence report offers a deep dive assessment of the primary growth drivers, challenges, opportunities, and restraints. The report predominantly aims at empowering businesses with extensive knowledge about this industry vertical. A 360-degree outlook of the top segments and geographies are entailed in this study. It also sheds light into the competitive terrain of this market within depth information about each operating player.

Key takeaways:

Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market is poised to amplify with a CAGR of 24.78% over 2021-2028.

Growing prevalence of both chronic and infectious diseases, increased healthcare expenditure, along with rising volume of data generated in the healthcare sector are aiding industry expansion.

MEA is projected to capture a substantial revenue share due to the growing burden of patients and increased healthcare expenditure.

Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market Report Scope:

Report Metric Details Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market Revenue forecast in 2028 USD 108.45 Billion Market Size in 2021 USD 23.03 Billion Market Growth Rate CAGR of 24.78% 2021-2028 Base Year 2021 Study Period 2021-2028 Key Players/Companies Google, IBM, Palantir, Microsoft, PTC

Get Free Sample PDF Brochure:

https://brandessenceresearch.com/downloadSample/PostId/643

Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market was valued at USD 23.03 Billion in 2021 and expected to reach USD 108.45 Billion by 2028, amplifying with a CAGR of 24.78% over 2021-2028.

Elaborating the key trends and dynamics of Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market

Growing prevalence of both chronic and infectious diseases, increased healthcare expenditure, along with rising volume of data generated in the healthcare sector are the primary factors aiding the expansion of this business sphere. Besides, surging R&D activities in the field, rising prominence of remote healthcare, and widespread digitalization are creating lucrative opportunities for this market space to prosper. Moreover, growing focus of healthcare organizations to reduce their overall operational costs and minimize the workload of medical professionals is another pivotal growth stimulant for this industry vertical.

Major growth drivers:

Increased volume of healthcare data- With rising burden of various diseases and injuries, a large number of individuals seek medical help every day. Thus, a huge volume of data in the form of patient records, test reports, clinical research documents, and medical images, among others are generated from healthcare facilities. The systematic storage, interpretation, and transfer of these sensitive data is quite important when it comes to making treatment decisions. This has increased the adoption of cognitive computing systems across healthcare facilities.

Escalating demand for personalized medicines- Personalized treatment options are gaining immense traction worldwide. Every individual has different health needs and require specialized form of care. To illustrate this, let us consider two cancer patients aged 18 and 78 respectively. The medicinal or therapeutic needs of an 18-year-old will be quite different than the elderly adult. Personalized treatments are tailored according to the age, physiological conditions, and presence of comorbidities of an individual and there can be regarded quite beneficial in treating a wide range of ailments. This in turn is creating an upward trend in this market.

Challenges:

Data security issues- Healthcare cognitive computing systems access and analyze sensitive patient data, including medical records, genetic information, and imaging data. Maintaining the privacy and security of this data is of utmost importance to comply with regulatory requirements and protect patients' confidentiality. The increased instances of data thefts and other forms of cybercrime is hindering the remuneration of this business sphere.

Competitive landscape of Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market:

Google

IBM

Palantir

Microsoft

PTC

Others

Browse In-depth Market Research Report (300 Pages) on Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market:

https://brandessenceresearch.com/healthcare/healthcare-cognitive-computing-market-size

Competitive landscape of Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market:

The prominent players defining the competitive terrain of this business vertical are Google, IBM, Palantir, Microsoft, and PTC.

Segmental Assessment:

By technology, the natural language processing segment is likely to amass notable gains over 2022-2029. This is attributable to the fact that NLP is equipped with the ability to extract meaning from human language and can be used to structure complex data.

Based on deployment type, the cloud-based services segment is poised to generate significant returns over the stipulated timeline. This is credited to the easy accessibility and affordability of cloud-based systems.

Geographical analysis & landscape:

Middle East & Africa Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market:

MEA is projected to capture a substantial revenue share over the assessment timeline. This is ascribed to the growing burden of patients, increased healthcare expenditure, and widespread technological advancements in the field. Besides, surging R&D activities along with the rapidly evolving healthcare infrastructure are fuelling the growth of this business sphere.

Europe:

Europe is reckoned to amplify significantly over the forecast duration. This is due to the rapidly evolving healthcare infrastructure, presence of prominent companies, and growing prominence of advanced technologies such as AI and ML. Moreover, growing burden of diseases and escalating demand for personalized medicine are creating an upward trend in this regional market.

Major developments in Healthcare Cognitive Computing Market:

In 2021, Change Healthcare, a healthcare technology company, announced the acquisitions of PDX, Inc.

Porter's Five Forces Analysis:

Threat of New Entrants: The healthcare cognitive computing market requires significant expertise in AI, machine learning, and healthcare domain knowledge. Entry barriers are relatively high due to the need for substantial investments in research and development, data infrastructure, and talent acquisition. Established companies already operating in this market have a competitive advantage with their existing technology, patents, and customer base, making it challenging for new entrants to gain a significant foothold.

Bargaining Power of Buyers: The bargaining power of buyers in the healthcare cognitive computing market is moderate to high. Buyers, such as healthcare institutions and pharmaceutical companies, have a variety of options when choosing cognitive computing solutions. They can demand customization and competitive pricing from vendors. Additionally, the quality and reliability of the cognitive computing systems significantly influence buyer decisions.

Purchase Copy of This Research Report @:

https://brandessenceresearch.com/Checkout?report_id=643

Bargaining Power of Suppliers: The bargaining power of suppliers in this market is moderate. Suppliers include technology providers, data providers, and research organizations that contribute to building and improving cognitive computing solutions. While there are several suppliers available, certain specialized technologies or datasets may be controlled by a limited number of vendors, giving them some leverage.

Threat of Substitutes: The threat of substitutes in the healthcare cognitive computing market is relatively low. Traditional healthcare decision-making methods may not match the capabilities and efficiency of cognitive computing systems in analyzing vast amounts of medical data and providing actionable insights. While human expertise will remain essential in healthcare, cognitive computing adds unique value and is not easily replaceable by traditional methods.

Competitive Rivalry: The competitive rivalry in the healthcare cognitive computing market is high. The market is relatively concentrated with a few major players dominating the industry. IBM Watson, Google Health, Microsoft Azure Healthcare, and other tech giants compete for market share. Additionally, startups and smaller companies offer specialized cognitive computing solutions for niche applications, intensifying the competition. As the market grows, innovation and differentiation become crucial factors for companies to gain a competitive edge.

Related Case Study:

Case Study: Launch of a Medical High Tech Innovation

Case Study: Creation of an Antibiotic

Case Study: Antiallergic Drug Discovery Process Using Emerging Technologies

Case Study: New Drug Application (NDA) Preparation and Submission

Case Study: API Price Trends

Partnering with Commercial Laboratories for Monkeypox Detection Solutions to Fuel Business Expansion

Radiation therapy for lung cancer is used.

Lupus Immunomodulating Medications

To Increase Productivity Through Cost-Effective R&D and Launch More Affordable Drugs

Locating a Hemophilia Treatment Provider that Can Be Accepted

Commercialization of a Pneumonia Diagnostic Tool

Case study on the Development of Innovative Medicine

Case Study: Software Application for Personalized Care with Data-Driven Insights

Case Study: Cancer Vaccine with Specific Antigens

Combination Trials for Lung Cancer Immunotherapy - Case Study

Using software to manage the supply chain and the inventory

Asset Scouting for Cystic Fibrosis: A Case Study

A Revolutionary Non-Invasive Glucose Monitoring Device Receives Regulatory Approval and Effective Commercialization

Investment in Pancreatic Cancer Chemotherapy

About Us:

Brandessence Market Research & Consulting Pvt ltd.

Brandessence Market Research publishes market research reports & business insights produced by highly qualified and experienced industry analysts. Our research reports are available in a wide range of industry verticals including aviation, food & beverage, healthcare, ICT, Construction, Chemicals and lot more. Brand Essence Market Research report will be best fit for senior executives, business development managers, marketing managers, consultants, CEOs, CIOs, COOs, and Directors, governments, agencies, organizations and Ph.D. Students. We have a delivery center in Pune, India and our sales office is in London.

Follow Us: LinkedIn

Contact:

Mr. Vishal Sawant

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

Corporate Sales: +44-2038074155

Asia Office: +917447409162





Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1392316/BEMR_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Brandessence Market Research And Consulting Private Limited
Award-winning SaaS product developer to lead HealthVerity in continuing to move the healthcare market forward

PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- HealthVerity, the leader in synchronizing transformational technologies and real-world data (RWD) to advance the science, announced that John Eckhart has been appointed Chief Technology Officer (CTO). With over 15 years of experience working with startup and growth-stage technology companies to innovate and develop leading SaaS products, Eckhart joins the HealthVerity leadership team with a focus on delivering compelling solutions that fully manage identity, privacy and compliance for customers.

Prior to joining HealthVerity, John worked at 15Five, a human resources technology company recognized for their technology products that help companies deliver on HR business outcomes. Eckhart has developed award-winning products at renowned companies, such as Yodle and Nearpod, that innovated and shaped their respective industries. Prior to that, he led efforts building massive trading and market data systems for JP Morgan. He has built data-intensive SaaS applications that catalyzed double and triple-digit customer growth in organizations spanning healthcare, financial and education sectors.

"I'm very pleased to welcome John Eckhart to HealthVerity as our new CTO," said Andrew Kress, HealthVerity CEO. "We're excited to have him join us at a pivotal time as we continue to develop innovative tools, software, and methods to make healthcare data available and usable for research and analytics. The future is going to be about seamlessly synchronizing the right patient-centric data to the right analytic in a highly efficient manner to answer key commercial and evidence questions. The HealthVerity team is looking forward to having John as a copilot as we roll out new tools and data over the next year."

Eckhart looks forward to combining his expertise in quickly developing products with the dedicated HealthVerity team of data experts to bring increased innovation. "The healthcare data exchange model that HealthVerity pioneered is already moving the market forward," Eckhart said. "I see great opportunity for us to continue this market progression. Our customers are doing groundbreaking work, developing new drugs, conducting clinical trials and tracking progression of infectious diseases. By equipping them with the right technology and tools, such as HealthVerity FLOW , our clients can have even more impact on people's lives."

About HealthVerity

HealthVerity synchronizes transformational technologies with the nation's largest healthcare and consumer data ecosystem to power previously unattainable outcomes and fundamentally advance the science. We offer a comprehensive, yet flexible approach, based on the foundational elements of Identity, Privacy, Governance and Exchange (IPGE), that synchronizes unparalleled Identity management with built-in Privacy compliance and Governance, providing the ability to discover and Exchange a near limitless combination of data at a record pace. Together with our partners in life sciences, government and insurance, we are Synchronizing the Science. To learn more about HealthVerity, visit healthverity.com.

HealthVerity Contact:

Colleen Stoker

614-738-0592

[email protected]

SOURCE HealthVerity
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Californians for Homeownership, a nonprofit organization sponsored by the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS (C.A.R.) that aims to address California's housing crisis through impact litigation, announced today that it has prevailed in its lawsuit against the City of Beverly Hills to enforce state housing planning laws.

Following a September 12 hearing, a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge granted the organization's petition for writ of mandate, finding that Beverly Hills had not complied with its legal duty to plan for housing under the regional housing needs allocation (RHNA) and housing element system.

"This is a milestone decision in state housing law," said C.A.R. President Jennifer Branchini. "For far too long, cities and counties have used unrealistic and underdeveloped housing plans to skirt around state planning rules. This case proves that the Legislature's recent improvements to housing element law go a long way toward solving this problem, so long as these new laws are vigorously enforced."

The RHNA and housing element system is an interconnected process for ensuring that California's cities and counties plan for adequate housing to address statewide and regional housing needs. In the RHNA assessment, state and local governments work together to identify regional housing needs and distribute them among a region's cities and counties. Each city and county must then develop a "housing element"  a component of the city's general plan that identifies sites available for future housing development sufficient to meet the city's RHNA allocation. If the city cannot identify adequate sites, it must change its zoning to allow additional housing development.

Traditionally, certain cities have avoided the bulk of the housing element planning process by obtaining unreasonably low RHNA allocations. Although Beverly Hills has long been a major jobs center and hub of commerce in Southern California, its 2013-2021 allocation was just 3 units. But recent changes have made the RHNA allocation process more robust, and the City was assigned a 2021-2029 RHNA of 3,104 units, including 1,688 units of housing for low- and very low-income households.

So the city shifted its approach, choosing to identify broad swaths of the City's commercial corridors as potential sites for housing, even though most of these sites contain established office, medical, and cultural uses that have little potential for residential development by 2029. The city also drastically overcounted the realistic development potential on these sites, using a calculation method that assumed that the existing buildings on all of the sites will be razed and replaced with ground-up residential developments, at the maximum density allowed by law.

"These are exactly the sorts of maneuvers that the recent changes to housing element law were designed to address," said Matthew Gelfand, the in-house litigator for the nonprofit. "When cities include inappropriate sites and overcount the potential housing on those sites, it undermines the RHNA system and is deeply unfair to those cities that have put in the work and developed realistic housing plans."

The organization first sued the city over its housing element in January. The city amended its housing element in February, and the lawsuit was amended to challenge the new version. Both versions of the city's housing element have been rejected by the state Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), which is charged with reviewing housing elements for compliance with state law. In opposing the lawsuit, the city argued that it was entitled to broad discretion in crafting its housing element, despite recent changes to state law designed to limit that discretion.

This week's decision against Beverly Hills is expected to lead to a final judgment that will require the city to revise its housing element on an expedited basis. Additionally, the ruling should give needed certainty about the applicability of the so-called "builder's remedy" to housing developments in the city. The "builder's remedy" refers to provisions in state housing law that ease development of projects in cities and counties that have not complied with their housing element obligations.

"We are aware of a number of builder's remedy projects that have been proposed in Beverly Hills, and our hope is that the decision in our case will help those projects move forward while also encouraging developers to come forward with additional projects in the next few months," Gelfand said.

Housing element compliance has been a major focus for Californians for Homeownership over the last two years. The nonprofit offers to forgo litigation against cities that are willing to acknowledge and comply with the state law penalties for non-compliance. Beverly Hills declined this offer. To date, the organization has filed over 20 housing element lawsuits and has settled 10. The settlements generally commit cities and counties to specific timelines for adoption or revision of their housing elements and require them to comply with the "builder's remedy" while out of compliance.

The case is Californians for Homeownership v. City of Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. 23STCP00143. A copy of the court's decision will be made available on request.

Californians for Homeownership is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization sponsored by the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS devoted to using legal tools to address California's housing crisis. For too long, California's cities have treated compliance with state and federal housing law as optional. The organization seeks to change that attitude by proactively enforcing the law, on behalf of the important public interest in having additional housing available to families at all income levels. Californians for Homeownership was established by the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS (C.A.R.), and it receives financial support from C.A.R. and private donors. To make a tax-deductible charitable contribution today, visit caforhomes.org.

SOURCE CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS (C.A.R.)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. Tajikistan is interested in collaborating on energy projects with Azerbaijan, Tajikistan's Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Ilhom Abdurahmon, said in an exclusive interview with Trend.

"Tajikistan is interested in Azerbaijani investments and the joint implementation of various economic projects in the hydroelectric sector, including the construction of small and large hydroelectric power stations on mutually beneficial terms," the Ambassador said.

He emphasized the significance of Tajikistan's water-energy programs for the development of the entire Central Asian region.

"Tajikistan is rich in water-energy resources, of which only a small fraction is currently utilized. In the meantime, the demand for electricity in the region and neighboring countries continues to grow year by year," he added.

"It is undeniable that our hydroelectric projects hold regional importance, and their implementation will serve the interests of all Central Asian countries. This extends beyond benefiting from cost-effective electricity production and transit; it also ensures water supply stability," Ilhom Abdurahmon said.

He noted that currently, Tajikistan and Azerbaijan are working on numerous economic projects, including ones in the energy sector, the oil industry, and the aluminum sector.

The Ambassador invited Azerbaijani companies and potential investors to actively participate in the implementation of water-energy projects and projects related to alternative energy sources in Tajikistan.
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The powertrain in Hyundai's all-electric IONIQ 6 sedan was named one of the 2023 Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems today. The annual awards from WardsAuto recognize compelling powertrain advancements that are all-new or significantly improved. The IONIQ 6 was selected for its performance, charging capability, range, and price. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 SUV was named one of the Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems in 2022. Both the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6i are powered by Hyundai's exclusive Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) that allows for dual motors, maximum interior space, and optimized performance. Hyundai has earned sixteen Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems recognitions since the annual awards' inception in 1995.

The Hyundai 2023 IONIQ 6 is photographed in Irvine, Calif., on Nov. 17, 2022. The Hyundai E-GMP photographed in Seoul, South Korea, on Dec. 3, 2020.

"Earning two consecutive Wards 10 Best Engine & Propulsion System awards is a remarkable achievement," said Byungho Lee, director, Electrified Propulsion Development at Hyundai America Technical Center Inc. "This prestigious award recognizes the IONIQ 6's exceptional engineering achieved with the E-GMP Platform. Its innovative architecture enables faster charging, extended driving ranges and superior handling dynamics to elevate the electric vehicle experience to a whole new level."

"Extreme acceleration is available at just about any speed, combined with excellent efficiency," says Bob Gritzinger, WardsAuto editor in chief. "Eco mode is comfortable for running errands, but sport mode turns this car into a rocket ship. This is clearly the top of the heap when it comes to battery-electric powertrains and deserves a second year on our list, this time in the IONIQ 6."

"The pace of technological change is so fast that few powertrains make the Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems list two times in a row, but the IONIQ 6's power delivery, efficiency and fun-to-drive aspects stood out from the crowd once again," said Drew Winter, WardsAuto contributing editor.

This marks the 29th year for Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems, a competition created to recognize outstanding powertrain achievement and highlight the teams that create them. This year, 32 entries competed for the prestigious awards. All-new or significantly updated propulsion systems qualify for consideration, along with winners from the 2022 class.

The 2023 Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsions awards ceremony will take place during the second day of the AutoTech: Electrification conference October 17-18, 2023, in Detroit, Michigan.

About WardsAuto

WardsAuto is a world-leading provider of automotive editorial, insights, and analysis, having served the industry's information needs for more than 90 years. A Southfield, MI-based Informa Tech business, WardsAuto provides a forward-looking perspective on all aspects of the automotive business, from the tech center to the plant floor to the showroom. As a part of our parent organization, Informa Tech, our mission is to bring together the entire ecosystem of those in technology and automotive to accelerate the future of our industries. Subscribe to WardsAuto by visiting http://www.wardsauto.com.

Hyundai Motor America

Hyundai Motor America focuses on 'Progress for Humanity' and smart mobility solutions. Hyundai offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles. Our 830 dealers sold more than 724,000 vehicles in the U.S. in 2022, and nearly half were built at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama. For more information, visit www.HyundaiNews.com.

Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok

i 2023 IONIQ 6 and IONIQ 5 are available at select dealers in select states only. Contact your Hyundai dealer for availability details.

SOURCE Hyundai Motor America
Top Safety Pick+ is the Highest Safety Rating by IIHS

IONIQ 6 Recognized for Meeting the More-Stringent IIHS Crashworthiness Evaluations

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai's award-winning 2023 IONIQ 6 electric vehicle has been awarded a TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The IONIQ 6 was recognized for meeting the more-stringent IIHS crash-worthiness evaluations and front-crash prevention systems designed to protect pedestrians both during the day and at night. This latest accomplishment reinforces Hyundai's commitment to driver and pedestrian safety.

Hyundais award-winning 2023 IONIQ 6 electric vehicle has been awarded a TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6.

"At Hyundai, ensuring customer safety is foundational to our brand and at the center of what we do," said Brian Latouf, global chief safety officer, Hyundai Motor Company. "We believe in providing customers with a safe experience while on their journey. Through our extensive development in safety engineering and technology integration, we are able to meet the stringent TSP+ testing requirements recently instituted by IIHS. We are extremely proud that the 2023 IONIQ 6 has achieved such a significant safety accolade for as doing so furthers Hyundai's pursuit of industry leadership in IIHS awards."

To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK+ in 2023, a vehicle must earn good ratings in the driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, original moderate overlap front and updated side tests. "Acceptable" or "Good" headlights must be standard across all trims and a front-crash prevention system that earns "Advanced" or "Superior" ratings in both the daytime and nighttime vehicle-to-pedestrian evaluations must be available. For the lower-tier TOP SAFETY PICK award, an "Acceptable" rating in the updated side test is enough, and vehicles need to demonstrate "Advanced" or "Superior" performance only in the daytime pedestrian test.

"It's exciting to see the IONIQ 6, Hyundai's newest electric vehicle, obtain the highest level of safety," said David Harkey, president, IIHS. "Making sure safety continues to be a priority in alternatively powered vehicles is critical if we are going to achieve the vision of zero traffic fatalities."

Hyundai Motor America

Hyundai Motor America focuses on 'Progress for Humanity' and smart mobility solutions. Hyundai offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles. Our 830 dealers sold more than 724,000 vehicles in the U.S. in 2022, and nearly half were built at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama. For more information, visit www.HyundaiNews.com

Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok

SOURCE Hyundai Motor America
Through the agreement Health-Ade will leverage iHeartMedia's multi-platform network and marquee event experiential activities to bring kombucha to a wide swath of new audiences. In August, the popular better-for-you beverage brand launched a sweepstakes in collaboration with iHeartMedia, which will send 2 lucky winners to the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas this September on an all-expenses trip-of-a-lifetime which will include a meet and greet with Ryan Seacrest and special VIP access to the festival. The sweepstakes, which will feature voiceovers by Ryan Seacrest, will run across iHeartMedia platforms nationwide.

iHeartMedia has a greater reach than any other media company in the U.S., with its quarter of a billion monthly listeners. Health-Ade Kombucha will tap into iHeartMedia's multiple platforms including broadcast radio, podcasts, digital content and experiential live events to reach Americans across the country. The brand will also leverage iHeartMedia's immense roster of talent like Ryan Seacrest to create bespoke voiceover ads that will run year-round to introduce and educate millions of Americans on the delicious taste and functional benefits of Health-Ade, as a part of the company's mission to bring kombucha to every fridge in America.

"iHeart reaches 9 out of 10 Americans every month and has the capability to build massive product awareness for Health-Ade," said Joe Robinson, President of Ventures for iHeartMedia. "Introducing a product that is affordable and healthy is a valuable offering for our listeners, so we are excited to collaborate with Health-Ade to help them meet their goal to bring kombucha to Americans all across the country."

"Our partnership with iHeart is the next step in our endeavor to take Health-Ade Kombucha mainstream, showing consumers across the country that Health-Ade is the perfect choice to stay refreshed and gut healthy when you're enjoying life, listening to podcasts, or singing along to your favorite song. We also are very excited about tapping into the voices of iHeart's trusted hosts, many of whom are already Health-Ade fans and are excited to share their love for kombucha with their millions of listeners," shares Health-Ade's Chief Marketing Officer Charlotte Mostaed.

Both iHeartMedia and Ryan Seacrest join as investors alongside majority owners First Bev and Manna Tree Partners, coming together to advance the mission of Health-Ade and share the benefits of kombucha with America. The group is dedicated to improving human health through access to nutritious food, like Health-Ade Kombucha, a satisfying alternative to sugary sodas that pack a probiotic punch. United Talent Agency and The Wellness Agency also participated in the transaction.

Their investment comes at a time of momentum growth for the brand: Health-Ade leads the kombucha category in percent growth and continues to gain new households nationwide through data-driven innovation and breakthrough partnerships. Earlier this year, they expanded their offering of beloved 16 oz glass kombucha bottles, with a line of 11.5 oz take-anywhere aluminum cans in four fan-favorite kombucha flavors: Pink Lady Apple, Ginger Lemon, Passion Fruit-Tangerine, and Pomegranate. On their mission to meet consumers through new occasions, Health-Ade also embarked on a multi-year partnership with the Los Angeles Dodgers, proudly joining the lineup of better-for-you food and beverage options for the 2023 and 2024 seasons. As the official non-alcoholic kombucha partner, Health-Ade Kombucha cans are available in select flavors throughout Dodger Stadium.

For more information on Health-Ade, visit www.health-ade.com. Follow along on Instagram @healthade, Facebook /HealthAde, and Twitter @DrinkHealthAde.

About Health-Ade Kombucha

Health-Ade creates feel-good, bubbly beverages with gut health benefits so you can follow your gut and show the world what you're made of. The brand got started in the Brentwood Farmers Market in 2012 selling its flagship kombucha drinks. Instantly gaining a cult following in Southern California, Health-Ade Kombucha rapidly expanded to sell nationwide in over 65,000 stores including Whole Foods Market, Sprouts, Safeway / Albertsons, Kroger, Publix, and Target. All Health-Ade products are naturally fermented with high-quality ingredients and are certified organic, non-GMO, gluten-free and vegan, and each bottle of Health-Ade Kombucha exceeds the World Health Organization's daily standard for probiotics.

For more information or press inquiries, please email [email protected].

SOURCE Health-Ade
Honoring Exceptional Contributions to Sustainability and the Clean Energy Sector

DENVER, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The renewable energy community is coming together to celebrate the remarkable legacy of Kacie Peters, a dedicated advocate for clean energy and sustainability, by introducing the inaugural Kacie Peters Impact Award. This prestigious accolade will honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the clean energy sector, embodying the values and dedication that Kacie Peters exemplified throughout her incredible career. This award is generously supported by Pivot Energy , the Colorado Solar and Storage Association (COSSA), the Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA), and other dedicated industry professionals.

The Kacie Peters Impact Award is more than just an accolade; it's a tribute to Kacie's enduring spirit and a commitment to continue the work she started. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating her legacy and recognizing the outstanding individuals who are making a difference in the clean energy sector.

Kacie Peters demonstrated an unwavering passion for clean energy and was driven by a deep sense of purpose in creating a more sustainable future. Throughout her career, Kacie actively fostered connections and a sense of community within the sector, in addition to inspiring and guiding others to pursue careers and initiatives in clean energy.

Kacie Peters, with over a decade of experience in the solar industry and most recently serving as the Senior Director of Communications for Pivot Energy, left an indelible mark on the clean energy community. Kacie was a solar energy influencer whose thought pieces expanded renewable energy and encouraged inclusivity. She served on the board of Women of Renewable Industries and Sustainable Energy (WRISE), created the industry networking monthly event series, Solardarity, to foster partnerships and increase solar deployment nationally. She served as a board member for the Colorado Solar and Storage Association, the Illinois Solar Energy Association, and played an active role in the Colorado leadership team for Clean Energy for Biden 2020. Kacie Peters was a member of the SEIA commercial financing working group and served on the Solar Power International Education Committee.

The Kacie Peters Impact Award aims to recognize individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the clean energy sector. The award criteria include:

Passion for Clean Energy Community Building Advocacy and Leadership Resilience and Perseverance Dedication to Equity and Inclusion Positive Mentorship Impact on Future Generations Collaboration and Partnerships

Nominations for the Kacie Peters Impact Award will open annually, with the first round of nominations to be collected in the summer of 2024.

The Kacie Peters Impact Award is more than just an accolade; it's a tribute to Kacie's enduring spirit and a commitment to continue the work she started. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating her legacy and recognizing the outstanding individuals who are making a difference in the clean energy sector.

"Kacie's greatest strength was an ability to excite people about big ideas and connect colleagues and friends. While she had a natural talent for networking, she also worked hard to improve her skills and was always willing to teach others some tricks. Sometimes, these skills are hard to quantify and get overlooked, so I'm very happy that this award will provide recognition for other folks like her," said Kacie's husband, Erik Stanley.

"It's been a privilege to have worked alongside Kacie over the last 5 years. I got to see firsthand the fierceness of her drive to spread solar adoption and make the industry welcoming to newcomers," said Melanie C. Kelly, VP of Marketing and Client Partnerships for Pivot Energy. "I'm honored to have the opportunity to create this annual award with other strong women in the solar industry that memorializes Kacie's legacy and promotes the values and impact she had throughout her career."

For more information about the Kacie Peters Impact Award and updates on the nomination process, please visit pivotenergy.net/kpimpact .

Media Contact:

Kate Laursen

203-610-5879

[email protected]

SOURCE Pivot Energy
Isaacs-Lowe will be recognized for her outstanding commitment to the Black community in business during The ELC's Recognition Gala

WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Executive Leadership Council (ELC) announced today that it will honor Arlene Isaacs-Lowe with the prestigious 2023 Alvaro L. Martins Heritage Award during its 2023 Annual ELC Recognition Gala on Thursday, October 5, 2023 at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center, National Harbor, Maryland at 5:00 p.m. ET.

The ELC is recognized as the preeminent global membership organization for Black current and former CEOs, senior executives, and board members of Fortune 1000 and equivalent companies, top-tier entrepreneurs, and global thought leaders. Created in honor of The ELC's founding member and first president and CEO Alvaro L. Martins, the Heritage Award recognizes an individual who has made significant lifetime contributions toward supporting the achievement of Black individuals in business.

"Arlene's exceptional contributions to Black business executives and her passion for driving social impact are emblematic of what it means to serve. She is an inspiring member of The ELC under whose leadership our organization has progressed greatly in its global presence, scholar support, corporate board preparedness and placement for Black executives and advancement of the Black community as a whole," said ELC President and CEO Michael C. Hyter. "We are proud to honor her with the 2023 Alvaro L. Martins Heritage Award."

Following her successful 24-year career with Moody's Corporation where she served multiple roles across the enterprise and served as president of the Moody's Foundation, IsaacsLowe continues to contribute to corporate America. In addition to devoting her time and energy to giving back to the Black community here and abroad, Isaacs-Lowe serves as an independent board member at Equitable Holdings, Inc and Xenia Hotels and Resorts, Inc, and a non-executive director for Compass Group PLC.

She also serves on the board of the Links Foundation as financial secretary and as vice-chair for the Howard University School of Business Board of Visitors, an advisory committee for the institution.

The ELC Annual Recognition Gala

The Annual Recognition Gala is The ELC's most important fundraising event, serving to support its scholarships, educational outreach and philanthropic initiatives, and its mission, purpose and impact in action. Google and The Coca-Cola Company will serve as lead sponsors of the 2023 Gala.

Other honorees at this year's event include Co-CEO and President of Ariel Investments and Co-Founder of Ariel Alternatives Mellody Hobson who will receive the 2023 ELC Achievement Award for her outstanding career in business.

In addition to corporate leaders, The ELC will award more than $2.8 million in scholarships to university students, the majority of whom matriculate at some of the nation's most well-regarded HBCUs. The ELC Scholarship Program is part of the organization's broader philanthropic strategy, which includes expanding emphasis on community and making larger investments in new philanthropic program initiatives that will ensure increased opportunities for young Black women and men to succeed as business executives.

ABOUT THE ELC: The Executive Leadership Council opens channels of opportunity for the development of Black executives to positively impact business and our communities. An independent non-profit 501(c)(3) founded in 1986, The ELC is the pre-eminent membership organization committed to increasing the number of global Black executives in C-suites, on corporate boards and in global enterprises. Comprising more than 800 current and former Black CEOs, senior executives and board directors at Fortune 1000 and Global 500 companies and entrepreneurs at top-tier firms, its members work to build an inclusive business leadership pipeline that empowers global Black leaders to make impactful contributions to the marketplace and the global communities they serve. For more information, please visit www.elcinfo.com. Engage during the event on social media: #ELCGALA on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

SOURCE The Executive Leadership Council
SAN DIEGO, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Independent Financial Group, LLC (IFG), a San Diego-based independent broker-dealer, is celebrating its twentieth anniversary. Founded in 2003 and reporting $267 million in revenue for 2022, IFG has found enduring success as a family-friendly company with a focus on independence and delivering industry-leading services with a personal feel.

"We've achieved more growth and success than we ever thought possible, and we plan to continue building IFG's legacy." Post this IFG Home Office Employees at the Del Mar Home Office

IFG celebrated its anniversary most recently at its 18th annual National Conference in Carlsbad, CA, with a black tie gala honoring advisors and longstanding employees. The gala included the presentation of a $46,000 donation to Promises2Kids, a San Diego-based charity supporting former foster youth.

When asked why he founded IFG, CEO and President Scott Heising joked that he "needed a job," before adding that he saw an opportunity to "create a company with the understanding that the rep is our client and that every interaction should be win-win for all parties." At IFG, "everybody knows everybody, and you're always a name, never a number." IFG Co-founder David Fischer said that he is "proud of our advisors and of how we've been able to build this company one handshake at a time. We've achieved more growth and success than we ever thought possible, and we plan to continue building IFG's legacy."

About Independent Financial Group

Independent Financial Group, LLC (IFG) is a privately held independent broker-dealer based in San Diego, California. Founded in 2003, IFG provides an array of business solutions supporting more than 625 independent financial professionals across 410 offices nationwide. IFG was named among the "Fastest Growing Private Companies in the US" by Inc. 5000 in 2020, for the eighth time since 2010. San Diego Business Journal ranked IFG #7 among the Largest Private Companies in San Diego in 2022. In 2023, IFG was ranked 17th largest among national independent broker-dealers by Financial Advisor Magazine, based on revenue.

To learn more about IFG, visit ifgsd.com.

Media Contact:

Pamela Saunders

IFG

(800) 269-1903

[email protected]

SOURCE Independent Financial Group
SINGAPORE, Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Buzzreach and Oncoshot, two prominent entities in the clinical trials domain, have announced an impactful collaboration to accelerate clinical trials in Japan. The former specialises in clinical trial site recruitment and retention and project management solutions, while the latter operates a cutting-edge real-time health insights exchange platform.

Mr Takateru Inokawa (left) and Dr Huren Sivaraj (right) during the MOU signing ceremony in Singapore.

The collaboration will extend to Oncoshot's strategic contract research organisation and pharmaceutical partners. Together, they will focus on recruiting participants for upcoming studies scheduled to begin in Q1 2024.

"This collaboration marks a significant step in Oncoshot's vision of creating a cancer cohort discovery platform and upcoming national-level clinical trials ecosystems and hospitals globally," said Oncoshot CEO Dr Huren Sivaraj.

Central to this partnership is the cost-free infrastructure designed to facilitate the real-time exchange of aggregated insights. This ground-breaking initiative is set to synergise their complementary strengths to enhance various clinical trial aspects throughout Japan, including feasibility assessments, participant screening, and enrolment. Japan is currently ranked as the third-largest pharmaceutical market worldwide. Notably, around 70% of clinical trials executed in Japan struggle to achieve their target patient enrolment within the designated timeframe.

Buzzreach CEO Mr Takateru Inokawa added: "We believe this partnership will positively impact clinical trials in Japan. Our shared commitment to innovation and data-driven approaches will benefit all stakeholders in healthcare research." Together, they will support end-to-end data-driven clinical trial delivery, leveraging their respective strengths.

Established in 2017, Buzzreach is a dynamic force in the healthcare technology sector, specialising in innovative solutions bridging the gap between pharmaceutical companies, medical institutions, and patients. At the recent Japan Healthcare Business Contest 2023, Buzzreach won the Excellence Award, conferred by Japan's Ministry for Economy, Trade, and Industry.

Buzzreach offers four powerful applications, each streamlining various aspects of clinical trials and patient engagement. Puzz is an information dissemination platform for pharmaceutical companies and medical institutions, allowing them to publish and share clinical trial details with consumers, prospective patients, and physicians. SMT complements this by matching patients and physicians seeking new treatment options with relevant local clinical trials, providing specific information about the trials and their locations.

Study Concierge is a patient-centric clinical trial app, assisting clinical research coordinators in notifying patients about various aspects of their participation and helping them stay on track. Lastly, StudyWorks was introduced to university hospitals and other institutions as a project management app to streamline clinical trial site operations. These apps optimise clinical trial processes, from information dissemination to patient engagement, creating a more efficient and effective drug development process.

About Buzzreach

Utilising an IT platform specialised in streamlining innovative clinical trials, Buzzreach provides region-specific subject recruitment and retention solutions, as well as efficiency-enhancing applications for clinical trial site operations. Throughout this process, Buzzreach offers support for subject recruitment and retention, along with project management assistance for clinical trial sites, all aimed at achieving goals in the shortest possible time.

Buzzreach currently operates in Japan.

About Oncoshot

Oncoshot is an innovative real-time health insights exchange platform that serves as a bridge between healthcare providers and the healthcare industry. It enables secure data exchange, connecting industry experts with crucial insights derived from real-time patient data. Oncoshot's in-premise medical LLM empowers hospitals to analyse raw healthcare data and generate actionable insights. These insights inform industry decision-making, leading to accelerated patient enrolment into clinical trials and reduced drug development costs. Ultimately, Oncoshot expedites the timely delivery of potentially life-saving therapies to patients.

For more information, visit https://www.oncoshot.com/.

SOURCE Oncoshot
SixSpeed and Southside Harm Reduction Services Introduce "Little Free Reviveries" to Promote Community Health

MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SixSpeed , a creative marketing agency that makes brands impossible to imitate, is proud to announce Little Free Revivery, a groundbreaking initiative with the esteemed nonprofit Southside Harm Reduction Services . The community-centric campaign is designed to address the pressing opioid epidemic with access to free NARCAN naloxone nasal spray while infusing creativity and culture into the solution. These installations will offer vital harm reduction services in strategic locations throughout the Twin Cities.

SixSpeed and Southside Harm Reduction Services Introduce "Little Free Reviveries" to Promote Community Health

"This initiative exemplifies the profound impact that art, culture, and community engagement can have in addressing urgent societal issues," said Kevin Reilly, CEO and Principle, SixSpeed. "Partnering with Southside Harm Reduction Services, we're igniting a beacon of hope in the heart of Minneapolis. We're excited to see how our community comes together to support this cause. Together, we're not just responding to an epidemic; we're working to shape a safer and healthier future for our city."

This collaborative effort introduces the concept of "Little Free Reviveries," creatively designed installations that offer NARCAN naloxone nasal spray, fentanyl testing strips and vital harm reduction information, symbolizing a collective commitment to public health, safety, and positive change.

Each Little Free Revivery aims to support change through:

Addressing a Growing Crisis: Minneapolis' opioid overdoses surged by 43% from 2020 to 2021. This partnership tackles this crisis head-on, offering a vital solution to a pressing issue and saving lives.

opioid overdoses by 43% from 2020 to 2021. This partnership tackles this crisis head-on, offering a vital solution to a pressing issue and saving lives. A Safe and Legal Solution: NARCAN naloxone nasal spray is a safe and effective medication designed to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. The medication was approved for over-the-counter sale in March of this year and became widely available for purchase this month.

NARCAN naloxone nasal spray is a safe and effective medication designed to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. The medication was approved for over-the-counter sale in March of this year and became widely available for purchase this month. Cultural Influence for Change: SixSpeed has invested in five installation boxes, with the intent to engage community partners across the Twin Cities in hosting a "Little Free Revivery" at no cost to the partners to amplify the campaign's impact and promote a culture of compassion and harm reduction.

SixSpeed has invested in five installation boxes, with the intent to engage community partners across in hosting a "Little Free Revivery" at no cost to the partners to amplify the campaign's impact and promote a culture of compassion and harm reduction. Second Chances and Transformation: Research reveals that survivors of opioid overdoses often experience life-altering shifts. The NARCAN naloxone nasal spray campaign embraces the potential for positive change, offering individuals a second chance at life and supporting them on a path toward recovery and wellbeing.

Research reveals that survivors of opioid overdoses often experience life-altering shifts. The NARCAN naloxone nasal spray campaign embraces the potential for positive change, offering individuals a second chance at life and supporting them on a path toward recovery and wellbeing. Community Engagement and Empowerment: "Little Free Reviveries" installations serve as more than physical structures; they symbolize a shared commitment to public health and safety. Installations will be restocked with these life-saving products weekly by volunteers from the SixSpeed team and the community.

The first Little Free Revivery is located at SixSpeed's offices in St. Louis Park (4828 W 35th St, Minneapolis, MN 55416) and will be maintained starting September 14. If your organization is interested in hosting a zero-investment installation or you would like to make a donation to keep "Little Free Reviveries'' stocked and help grow this campaign's impact in the Twin Cities, please contact [email protected] or visit littlefreerevivery.com for more information.

Media assets can be found HERE .

ABOUT SIXSPEED

To be what others aren't, you have to do what they won't. We are SixSpeed, a creative marketing agency that is employee-owned, consumer-centric, and ready to deliver on experience. We're here to make the world's most adventurous brands impossible to imitate. Those brands who consider Best Practices a suggestion, not a mandate. The ones that consider inspiration fuel for action, not just food for thought. See how we've encouraged others to take a leap at sixspeed.com .

ABOUT SOUTHSIDE HARM REDUCTION SERVICES

Southside Harm Reduction Services is a non-profit working within a harm reduction framework to promote human rights to health, safety, autonomy, and agency among substance users. They provide essential services such as test strips, street outreach, and training to businesses, benefiting individuals who may not have access to lifesaving measures otherwise. For more information, visit southsideharmreduction.org .

SOURCE SixSpeed
Brings ICCS membership to 42 Global Members Since Organization's Launch in February 2023

NEW YORK and PHILADELPHIA and LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Inolex, a sustainable ingredient designer for health, beauty, and wellness, and the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association (CTPA), the UK trade association representing companies involved in making, supplying, and selling cosmetics and personal care products have become members of the International Collaboration on Cosmetics Safety (ICCS). This marks a significant stride for both organizations in their dedication to promoting the use of animal-free testing methods for evaluating the safety of cosmetics and their components, both in terms of human health and environmental impact.

ICCS is a global initiative focused on the adoption of animal-free assessments of cosmetics, and their ingredients for human health and environmental safety. Headquartered in New York, the ICCS brings together scientists and industry experts to drive greater global awareness and confidence in animal-free science assessments. ICCS membership encompasses a diverse range of stakeholders, including cosmetic and chemical trade and research associations, non-governmental organizations, and cosmetic product and ingredient manufacturers.

Erin Hill, ICCS President and CEO, expressed the significance of this development, "The inclusion of Inolex and CTPA as members is another important step towards driving greater global awareness in animal-free science. With these two notable organizations we will continue to build on our progress for the accelerated uptake of non-animal methodologies."

Inolex and CTPA are among an array of renowned international corporations and organizations including global beauty companies and animal protection groups that stand with the ICCS mission of applying animal-free test methods to ensure cosmetic safety.

"We are pleased to partner with ICCS on their mission and science-backed approach to eliminate animal testing in beauty and personal care. Together with like-minded organizations, we can move the industry in a forward direction to make responsible alternatives for assessing ingredient and consumer product safety the norm," said Katie Sminkey, Product Stewardship Manager at Inolex.

Inolex is a global company that designs ingredients for the personal care and cosmetics industries. With sustainability central to all it does, Inolex is shaping the beauty and personal care industry with technology rooted in green chemistry. Inolex is committed to animal welfare and does not sell animal-products or animal byproduct-derived products. Inolex also does not test their products on animals. Since 2018, the Inolex portfolio is 100% vegan-friendly and cruelty-free.

"I am delighted that CTPA has become a member of ICCS. CTPA is proud to champion the use of non-animal test methods to ensure chemical safety. Being able to do this at a global level in partnership with the key stakeholders at ICCS is so important and exciting," said Dr. Emma Meredith, Director-General of CTPA.

CTPA is the UK association representing all types of companies involved in making, supplying, and selling cosmetics and personal care products and suppliers to the industry. CTPA is the voice of the UK cosmetics industry and its essential contribution to health, hygiene, and wellbeing. CTPA has proven its commitment to advancing animal-free safety assessments by teaming with experts to increase education and awareness of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) and Next Generation Risk Assessment (NGRA).

ICCS continues to work with all stakeholders across the world to accelerate the transition to global use and acceptance of animal-free science for human safety and environmental assessment.

About ICCS

The International Collaboration on Cosmetics Safety (ICCS) is a global initiative focused on advancing the adoption of animal-free safety assessment approaches for cosmetics, personal care products and their ingredients. ICCS brings together scientists and experts from cosmetics manufacturers and suppliers, industry associations, and animal protection organizations to drive greater global awareness to accelerate widespread use of animal-free science through research, education, and regulatory engagement. www.iccs-cosmetics.org

About Inolex

Inolex is a fiercely independent company that designs sustainable ingredients for health, beauty, and wellness. We don't swim with the current; we create it. We envision and realize solutions to advance the needs of our customers. We challenge ourselves and the industry to think differently. Honoring nature, we design emerging technologies that ensure the safe and optimum performance of leading brands in more than 85 countries. Our designers are guided by the Principles of Green Chemistry, to invent the future of sustainable ingredient platforms. By balancing conscious science with nature and artistry, our imaginative approaches become the building blocks for exceptional products that care for people and our planet. We are Inolex. Thinkers, Designers, Creators, and Rebels. www.inolex.com

About CTPA

CTPA's membership, from multi-nationals to SMEs, represents over 85% of the UK market by retail sales value. We promote best practice and advise companies about the strict legal framework for cosmetics. The Association represents industry views to the UK Government and external stakeholders and also provides information to the media on issues relating to the safety of cosmetic products. When the UK left the European Union, CTPA engaged immediately with the UK Government to ensure the rigorous bans on the testing of cosmetic products and their ingredients on animals remained under the new UK regulatory framework for cosmetics and CTPA continues to promote regulatory acceptance of animal-free test methods for any chemicals that could be used in cosmetics. www.ctpa.org.uk

SOURCE International Collaboration on Cosmetics Safety
Intellinum announces major new product release: The Next-Generation AI-Enabled Solution for Supply Chain Execution

DALLAS, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Intellinum, a global leader in supply chain execution solutions and an Oracle partner, is excited to introduce Flexi AI, a cutting-edge AI-enabled solution poised to redefine supply chain execution. Flexi AI is designed to enhance operational efficiency and responsiveness by leveraging advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), real-time data analytics, automation, and Internet of Things (IoT) integration.

A New Era in Supply Chain Execution

Intellinum launches Flexi AI, the first in a series of AI solutions to increase efficiency of supply chain execution. Post this Flexi AI, an AI-Enabled Solution for Supply Chain Execution from Intellinum

Flexi AI represents a new era in supply chain execution, offering a comprehensive solution for managing and optimizing various facets of the supply chain process, including inventory, orders, personnel, and equipment. Romi Halimman, CEO at Intellinum, is leading the company's growth expansion strategy, including this new product launch of Flexi AI.

"Flexi AI is more than just a product; it's a paradigm shift in how we approach and manage supply chain operations," said Mr. Halimman. "And Flexi AI is one of the many AI solutions to come from Intellinum."

Key Features and Capabilities of Flexi AI include:

Real-time Monitoring: Flexi AI provides unparalleled real-time visibility into inventory levels, order and task statuses, and operational metrics by seamlessly collecting data from multiple sources, including Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), the Flexi mobility platform, and connected IoT devices. Inventory Management: The solution enables precise demand forecasting, efficient space utilization, inventory slotting, and proactive replenishment strategies. Resource Optimization: Flexi AI ensures optimal resource allocation by recommending resources based on availability, skillset, task urgency, and deadlines. Performance Analytics: The platform generates performance metrics, analytics, and reports to monitor critical Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as order fulfillment rates, on-time delivery, and labor productivity. Its generative AI capabilities empower users to interact with data, gain insights, and create dynamic dashboards on the fly. Robotic and IoT Integration Platform: Flexi AI offers a robust platform for integrating and orchestrating Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and Internet of Things (IoTs), further enhancing operational efficiencies. Built-in Data Connector: With built-in data connectors, Flexi AI seamlessly integrates with a wide range of warehouse management and inventory management systems. Extensibility: Flexi AI serves as a supply chain AI platform that enables customers to enhance its AI capabilities by incorporating new Large Language Models, AI prediction models, and plugins into their backend systems. Collaboration and Communication: Flexi AI fosters improved communication and collaboration among warehouse staff and stakeholders through a chat interface, connecting warehouse users, superusers, and the Copilot.

The Power of Large Language Models (LLMs)

Flexi AI harnesses the power of Large Language Models for natural language processing and reasoning capabilities. The Copilot chat and voice interface empower users to interact with Flexi AI for information retrieval, recommendations, and action execution while ensuring the privacy and security of sensitive customer data.

The Copilot Concept

The Copilot feature within Flexi AI assists users in making informed decisions by providing data-driven recommendations. Users can conduct what-if analyses on these recommendations to arrive at optimal solutions, which can then be approved for execution. "The Copilot concept is designed to support and enhance human decision-making, not replace it," added Mr. Halimman.

Transform Your Supply Chain with Flexi AI

By implementing Flexi AI, businesses can achieve heightened visibility, efficiency, and adaptability in their supply chain operations. The solution optimizes resource allocation, reduces costs, minimizes errors, enhances customer service, and enables swift adaptation to evolving market demands.

About Intellinum

Intellinum is a global IT service company specializing in supply chain solutions, including inventory and warehouse management. Trusted by over 200 customers worldwide, Intellinum is dedicated to continuous innovation and technological advancement. For more information, please visit www.intellinum.com.

SOURCE Intellinum
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. The International Astronautical Congress, which will be held in Baku this year, will make an important contribution to the development of the space industry in Azerbaijan, the advisor to the Minister of Digital Development and Communications of Azerbaijan, Rashad Bayramov said, Trend reports.

According to him, for Azerbaijan, this congress, first of all, will contribute to the development of the scientific sphere.

"A number of major initiatives, including the IAF Student Competition, will be implemented at the congress, which will be held from October 2 through October 6, 2023 in Baku," he said during a media briefing dedicated to the International Astronautical Congress.

He noted that the congress will give Azerbaijan, as well as the entire region, the opportunity to act as a leading force in the creation and development of the space ecosystem.

"Holding the congress in Azerbaijan will provide the country with an opportunity to declare itself as a reliable partner in the space sphere for international organizations," he added.
The product enables Gigabit speeds internet to each home

ATHENS, Greece, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Intracom Telecom, a global telecommunication systems and solutions vendor, announced today that EOLO SpA, an Italian telecommunications operator focusing on ultra-broadband in sub-urban and rural areas, selected its WiBAS G5 dual-BS base station device for the expansion of the 28 GHz ultra-fast wireless network across Italy.

EOLO awarded the multimillion expansion contract to Intracom Telecom following a lengthy testing of the device at the laboratory and the field. The deployment of the WiBAS G5 dual-BS is part of EOLO's extensive investment in its fast expanding network across Italy, aiming at staying at the top of Italian FWA service providers, with a portfolio of ultra-broadband services to residential and SME subscribers. It is reminded that EOLO has been using the WiBAS platform since 2017 fuelling its success in providing its subscribers with high quality ultrabroadband Internet connection.

The WiBAS G5 dual-BS interoperate with Intracom Telecom's terminal stations already installed and operated by EOLO. Thanks to its innovative hardware and software unique features it has twice the capacity in terms of subscribers and three times the throughput compared to the previous generation device.

Intracom Telecom's WiBAS G5 dual-BS platform can be leveraged by operators to build gigabit services through software upgrades and achieve download speeds equivalent to 5G. The device includes novel technologies for this category of devices, such as MU-MIMO. The provisioning process of the device is performed via uniMS SON Gateway, a software platform accelerating the service activation by automatically discovering terminals and instantly provisioning the subscription profile.

Commenting on the partnership between Eolo and Intracom Telecom, Guido Garrone, co-CEO of Network Division, EOLO, said: "Building a reliable and future-proof network requires determination and a careful planning that EOLO and Intracom Telecom have carried-out together over the past 6 years of collaboration. With its mmWave FWA network, EOLO serves residentials, businesses and wholesale customers. EOLO's mission has always been to guarantee access to an ultra-fast, high-performance and resilient network to all Italian families and businesses, reaching the most remote areas of the country, creating value for the territory in which it operates. Intracom Telecom showed flexibility and commitment in supporting us in our journey. Thanks to its technological expertise, Intracom Telecom engineers have enhanced their product with new features allowing for a continuous improvement of our offers."

Kartlos Edilashvili, Acting CEO of Intracom Telecom, said: "We are proud to be trusted once again by EOLO and support them in becoming the top fixed access provider in Italy as well as a global reference for their connectivity offers to residential and business customers. Since 2017, we have been working with EOLO to address their future network needs by developing innovative solutions that accelerate their network expansion and growth. We look forward to implement this new expansion and connect our brand name, as the key technology partner, with EOLO's success."

Intracom Telecom has been accumulating expertise for the past 20 years in providing innovative wireless access solutions, having successfully developed and deployed its Point-to-Multipoint systems with numerous operators in Europe, Southeast Asia and Africa, meeting the constantly growing demand for broadband access services.

About EOLO SpA Italy

EOLO is a national telecommunications operator, leader in the field of wireless ultra-wideband (FWA) for the residential and business market. It guarantees quality access to Ultra Broadband with a focus on areas characterised by the digital divide. It is a Benefit Company and the first Italian telecommunications company to have obtained B Corp certification. It covers over 6,900,700 municipalities thanks to more than 4,100 BTS (radio repeaters). It connects 1.6 million people and 116,000 businesses, public administrations and professionals. EOLO relies on a network of more than 17,000 employees, technical installers and business partners in the territory.

Further information on EOLO services is available at www.eolo.it.

About Intracom Telecom

Intracom Telecom is a global telecommunication systems and solutions vendor operating for 45 years in the market. Intracom Telecom innovates in the areas of small-cell backhaul, wireless transmission and broadband wireless access and has successfully deployed its industry leading point-to-point and point-to-multipoint packet radio systems worldwide. Moreover, the company offers a competitive portfolio of revenue-generating telco software solutions and a complete range of ICT services, focusing on big data analytics, converged networking and cloud computing for operators and private, public and government clouds. The company invests significantly in R&D developing cutting-edge products and integrated solutions that ensure customer satisfaction. Over 100 customers in more than 70 countries choose Intracom Telecom for its state-of-the-art technology. For more information, visit www.intracom-telecom.com

SOURCE Intracom Telecom
DURHAM, N.C., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Law Offices of James Scott Farrin announced that attorney Nichad Davis is being honored on the National Black Lawyers "Top 40 Under 40" list for 2023. Already honored on Black Business Ink Magazine's "40 Under 40 Most Influential African Americans in the Triad" list for 2022, Davis continues to amass accolades for his work as a civil rights attorney, personal injury attorney, and community leader.*

Honorees on the "Top 40 Under 40" list are selected on the basis of outstanding reputation, notable achievements and court outcomes, nominations from leading lawyers, membership in national and state specialty lawyer organizations, and rankings from national organizations.

Davis leads the civil rights practice at the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin. He is the firm's second attorney to be named to the National Black Lawyers "Top 40 Under 40" list, joining attorney and firm Partner Leila Hicks who was honored in 2021.*

ABOUT THE LAW OFFICES OF JAMES SCOTT FARRIN

The Law Offices of James Scott Farrin is one of the largest personal injury firms in North Carolina and has helped over 60,000 injured people since 1997. Operating from 16 offices in NC and one in SC, many of the firm's 60+ accomplished attorneys are recognized professionals in their fields. The firm focuses on providing quality legal services to as many people as possible in the following practice areas: personal injury, car accidents, workers' compensation, whistleblowing, defective products, eminent domain, mass torts, class actions, and Social Security Disability.

Contact Information:

David Chamberlin

555 South Mangum Street, Suite 800

Durham, NC 27701

1-866-900-7078

https://www.farrin.com

Offices in Durham (main), Raleigh, Charlotte, Greensboro, NC and Greenville, SC. Attorney J. Gabe Talton: 555 South Mangum Street, Suite 800, Durham, NC

*For standards of inclusion for the "Top 40 Under 40" list, visit nbltop100.org. For standards of inclusion for the "40 Under 40 Most Influential African Americans in the Triad" list, visit blackbusinessink.com.

SOURCE Law Offices of James Scott Farrin
Deal would add crucial transformation capabilities for Kearney clients

CHICAGO, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kearney, a leading global strategy consulting firm, is pleased to announce its acquisition of MSE  Management Solutions Experts, a highly regarded Middle Eastern consulting firm, pending customary regulatory approvals and clearances. The acquisition further demonstrates Kearney's commitment to invest in the region and provide the very best in end-to-end transformation services for our clients.

MSE Management Solutions Experts

MSE, with offices in Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia, has carved out a position for itself as a valuable partner to government, commercial organizations, and global consulting firms in strategy execution and implementation across the Middle East.

"We're excited about this new phase in our relationship with MSE," said Bob Willen, managing director and chair of Kearney's Middle East and Africa region. "MSE's local expertise and its complementary capabilities have already increased the value of what Kearney delivers for our Middle East clients. By combining forces, we will be able to offer more comprehensive end-to-end support to our clients in the region across their large-scale transformation programs."

Kearney works alongside many of the world's foremost public and private sector organizations to support their end-to-end transformations, helping clients formulate strategy and identify operational improvements. Since MSE's formation in 2005, it has provided advice to hundreds of organizations in the Middle East and has developed a reputation for its ability to complete successful and structured engagements through organization transformation and execution support. MSE's detailed design and implementation expertise has proven invaluable to its consulting partners, including Kearney, which was one of MSE's key partners over the last several years through a number of impactful transformation engagements.

"The work we've done with Kearney in the last few years has made it clear just how much cultural alignment there is between the two firms," said Imad Moujaes, MSE's founder and managing director. "MSE's people have a great opportunity to contribute to, and benefit from, Kearney's continued growth in the Middle East."

MSE will function independently and autonomously, ensuring that its dedication to delivering exceptional service and meeting ongoing client commitments remains unchanged.

The MSE acquisition represents a continuation of Kearney's strategy of using inorganic moves to accelerate its top-line growth and better serve clients. In the last four years Kearney has also acquired Cervello, a data and analytics provider; Prokura, a procurement and supply chain consultancy; OPTANO, which provides AI-powered operations optimization solutions; Silicon Foundry, an advisory firm focused on the global innovation ecosystem, and TEAMS, an industrial design firm.

About Kearney

Kearney is a leading global management consulting firm. For nearly 100 years, we have been a trusted advisor to C-suites, government bodies, and nonprofit organizations. Our people make us who we are. Driven to be the difference between a big idea and making it happen, we work alongside our clients to regenerate their businesses to create a future that works for everyone. Learn more at www.kearney.com.

About MSE

MSE is a management consultancy firm with a focus on developing and implementing strategies through organizational change, people development, and technology. MSE is a key player in business transformation and drives change through the deployment of leading expertise in organization detailing, governance, human capital management, business excellence, and execution management. With offices in Riyadh, Dubai and Beirut, the company is powered by a large team of highly committed and talented full-time consultants with deep-rooted expertise in working hand-in-hand with clients to secure successful transformations. Learn more at www.mse-me.com.

Contact:

Layan AlJammal

Senior Account Executive

[email protected]

M: +971 52 104 3583

Houbara Communications

SOURCE Kearney
Grant dollars will support Indianapolis' first Equitable Transit- Oriented Development (ETOD) program

INDIANAPOLIS, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The KeyBank Foundation has awarded Indianapolis Neighborhood Housing Partnership (INHP) a $300,000 grant to continue its efforts to create or preserve affordable housing opportunities near Indianapolis transit lines as part of the city's first Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) program. Through this program, INHP acquires and holds properties within a half mile of IndyGo's 15-minute frequency routes to give developers time to prepare optimal site plans that will offer affordable housing for families earning low and moderate incomes.

KeyBank presents a $300,000 check to Indianapolis Neighborhood Housing Partnership

The funding will support costs to maintain and hold the properties in this land bank. Since 2018, INHP has acquired 17 ETOD properties and has sold seven to developers as it works to reach its goal of providing 1,000 affordable units to Indianapolis residents.

"INHP is grateful for KeyBank's generous support as a partner in the ETOD program," said Gina Miller, president and CEO of INHP. "These funds will allow us to sustain this strategy and achieve positive outcomes for the people and neighborhoods we serve."

Studies show Indianapolis' families spend an average of 46 percent of their income on housing and transportation. Through the ETOD program, INHP is promoting housing choice and affordability while also providing access to jobs, education, healthcare, food and cultural amenities  all needed for economic mobility.

"INHP plays a pivotal role in the Indianapolis community connecting people to the necessary resources for affordable housing," said Juan Gonzalez, KeyBank's Central Indiana Market President. "Key is incredibly proud to support INHP and follow through on our commitment to help the organizations and residents we serve thrive. This partnership will not only strengthen our community, but it will provide equitable access to jobs, education, healthcare and more."

Since 2017, Key has made community investments totaling more than $930 million in Central Indiana which supports low to moderate income individuals and neighborhoods through lending for affordable housing, small businesses, mortgage and transformative philanthropy.

ABOUT KEYCORP

KeyCorp's (NYSE: KEY) roots trace back nearly 200 years to Albany, New York. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation's largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $195 billion at June 30, 2023. Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,300 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/. KeyBank is Member FDIC.

ABOUT INHP

The Indianapolis Neighborhood Housing Partnership (INHP) creates affordable housing solutions for people with low and moderate incomes, and collaborates to enhance quality of life in Indianapolis neighborhoods. INHP supports people by providing homebuyer and financial education, one-on-one homeownership advising, home purchase and home repair lending, and economic mobility programming for renters. As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) INHP also supports the creation or preservation of affordable housing through investments in affordable housing development, land banking, community lending and grantmaking. For more information, visit INHP.org.

SOURCE KeyCorp
Award-Winning Poke Franchise Continues Its Nationwide Growth

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading poke restaurant Koibito Poke announced today the official grand opening of its newest location in Charlotte, North Carolina along with four more new stores set to open by early 2024.

Koibito Poke signature bowls Koibito Poke announces Charlotte grand opening

"Our Charlotte location is exciting and important for the growth of Koibito Poke," says Co-Founder and CEO Todd Stottlemyre. "It will serve as the training location for our future East Coast stores. The Charlotte team brings an unparalleled level of experience to the brand, and we are thrilled to be introducing our award-winning concept to new markets across the country."

Koibito Poke Charlotte, located at 4701 Park Road, Suite B, will host its official grand opening celebration on Saturday, September 23 with specials and giveaways. The healthy fast casual concept is set to open two more locations in metropolitan Phoenix within the next six months followed by another St. Louis location in early 2024. Earlier this year, Koibito Poke opened a prime Missouri location at Ball Park Village, directly adjacent to Busch Stadium. They also opened its third Nevada location in Henderson in August.

The fast-growing company is committed to creating a new standard of excellence in healthy, nutritious, and delicious dining in the poke space.

To add to the momentum, Koibito Poke is in pre-launch with its Ambassador Program that will help fuel social media users with incentives to promote this growing brand. Chosen ambassadors receive a free bowl every month, Koibito Poke merch, discount codes for friends, family, and followers. Also, ambassadors are rewarded for the sales they bring in. Applications can be submitted through Koibito's website at https://koibitopoke.com/ambassador-program/.

For more information on Koibito Poke, its locations and its franchise offerings, visit https://koibitopoke.com/franchise/ or follow them on social media @koibito.poke.

About Koibito Poke :

Founded in 2018, Koibito Poke is the leading healthy fast casual concept known for its award-winning build-your-own poke bowls influenced by traditional Hawaiian and Japanese flavors and fresh ingredients. Koibito Poke is co-founded by former MLB Pitcher and three-time World Champion, and two times bestselling author, Todd Stottlemyre, who has led the brand's expansion throughout the United States. The restaurant was named one of the top new and emerging franchise brands in 2023 by Entrepreneur and named Best Poke Bowl in 2022 and 2023 by Arizona Foothills Magazine. For more information on Koibito Poke, visit www.koibitopoke.com.

Media Contact:

Robyn Patterson

[email protected]

480-242-8001

SOURCE Koibito Poke
STONY BROOK, N.Y., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Dozens of people have food poisoning after eating at Kumo Sushi of Stony Brook last week. 12 people were rushed to the Emergency Room at Stony Brook University Hospital.

Suffolk County Department of Health investigators cited Kumo Sushi of Stony Brook for 15 violations, including 8 violations for food-borne illness risk factors.

A woman has filed the second lawsuit against Kumo Sushi of Stony Brook. She got food poisoning after attending a birthday party last Saturday at Kumo Sushi of Stony Brook.

Food Poisoning Lawyer Jory Lange and Scott Harford, one of Manhattan's leading Product Liability Lawyers, are representing the woman, who is one of dozens of people who got food poisoning after eating last week at Kumo Sushi of Stony Brook.

This is the second food poisoning lawsuit filed by Jory Lange and Scott Harford in the Kumo Sushi of Stony Brook food poisoning outbreak.

"The scary thing about this outbreak is, as a consumer, there's nothing you can do to tell whether the food that you are buying is safe. You can't taste, smell, or see food poisoning. Food that is contaminated may look, smell, and taste just like any other food. This is why it's critical that restaurants who make and sell our food, ensure the food is safe before they sell it," said Food Poisoning Lawyer Jory Lange.

"I have devoted my legal career to helping injured New Yorkers when companies cut corners resulting in harm to their customers," said Scott Harford.

Jory Lange and Scott Harford are representing multiple families who were sickened in the Kumo Sushi of Stony Brook food poisoning outbreak.

About the Kumo Sushi of Stony Brook Food Poisoning Outbreak

On September 9, 2023, the health department, police, and more than a dozen fire departments responded to a food poisoning outbreak at Kumo Sushi of Stony Brook, and temporarily shut the restaurant down. "We believe the culprit was the rice. This particular case, that rice was cooked and not stored at a proper temperature and what happens there is you have spores that live in the rice and after the rice is cooked if you don't have it at a proper temperature, these spores can reactivate and become bacteria," Suffolk County Health Commissioner Gregson Pigott said.

Record-Breaking Food Poisoning Lawyer

Jory Lange is one of the nation's leading Food Poisoning Lawyers. Jory recently won a $10 million settlement on behalf of a family who got Shigella food poisoning and suffered lifelong medical complications after eating at a restaurant. The $10 million settlement is believed to be the largest Shigella settlement in US history on behalf of a person who developed Reactive Arthritis from Shigella food poisoning.

How The Lange Law Firm Can Help

Our mission is to help families who have been harmed by severe food poisoning. When restaurants give their customers food poisoning, we use the law to hold them accountable. The Lange Law Firm is the only law firm in the nation solely focused on representing families in food poisoning lawsuits and contaminated water lawsuits.

If you got food poisoning from Kumo Sushi of Stony Brook and are interested in making a legal claim for compensation, we can help. Our food safety lawyer can help you pursue compensation for food poisoning. Call us for a free no obligation legal consultation at (833) 330-3663 or send us an e-mail here.

About the legal team:

Jory Lange with The Lange Law Firm, PLLC is one of the United States' leading Food Poisoning Lawyers, successfully representing clients across the United States in food poisoning cases from E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Vibrio, and Bacillus Cereus Food Poisoning.

Scott A. Harford with Harford P.C. is an accomplished personal injury plaintiffs' attorney licensed to practice in New York and New Jersey. He has represented hundreds of individual clients located across the country harmed by pharmaceutical drugs, defective consumer products, medical devices, toxic chemicals, and Legionella bacteria.

Contacts

The Lange Law Firm, PLLC

Jory D. Lange Jr.

www.MakeFoodSafe.com

Candess Zona Mendola

833.330.3663

[email protected]

SOURCE The Lange Law Firm
DETROIT, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- (LaPresse) - After the success of the 2022 edition, the Italian Consulate in Detroit has relaunched its presence at the 'Detroit Month of Design' through the 'LoveItDetroit' project, with an installation dedicated to sustainability, open to the public until Sept. 30, at 1001 Woodward Avenue. In particular, the installation aims to underline how Italian companies have taken the path of sustainability, integrating this approach with the essence of Made in Italy. On the occasion of the opening day of the Detroit Auto Show 2023, the exhibition hosted a panel of experts and stakeholders from the sector on Wednesday, to discuss the links between the US motoring capital and Italy, in particular Turin, and the energy transition in the automotive sector.

LaPresse: USA, at LoveITDetroit showcasing innovation and sustainability of Made in Italy (PRNewsfoto/LaPresse)

The ties between Detroit and Italy date back to 1899, the year of the first Auto Show, the same year in which Italy sent its first consul to this city, recalled the Italian ambassador to the USA, Mariangela Zappia. "We are currently the only European country that has a consulate in Detroit and this says a lot about the relations between Detroit and Italy and, of course, between Detroit and Turin, the automotive capital of Italy," Zappia said. "Italy is at the forefront of innovation in the automotive sector", remarked the ambassador, recalling the "Italian champions" present at the 2023 Auto Show, in particular in the electric cars sector.

"Tonight we celebrate sustainable mobility, after having celebrated the Space sector and Italian fashion. We wanted to use sustainability as an underlying theme, because it crosses various sectors", said the Italian consul in Detroit, Allegra Baistrocchi, promoter of 'LoveItDetroit'. "Italy is at the forefront of the fight against climate change and is fighting for this internationally, so why not use design as a vehicle for this issue?", added the consul.

Kerry Duggan, sustainability expert and CEO of SustenaibiliD, an organization she founded in 2017, after having held various consultancy roles in the Obama-Biden Administration, also spoke about the links between Detroit and Italy. "Clearly we both have in common that we create things. And not only do we produce things, we are innovative, we design, we are both known for design. Detroit is a UNESCO city of design. And obviously I don't need to say anything about Italy and the its design heritage," Duggan said, after moderating the expert panel.

Among the speakers of the evening, also Marco Bruzzano, senior vice president of regularory affairs of DTE, the Detroit energy company. "Companies like DTE are focused on reaching net zero emissions as quickly as possible. We just announced that we will retire all of our coal plants by 2032. And we are on track to reduce our emissions by 85% by 2032. The innovation ecosystem that we have in Detroit, with the automotive companies, the utilities, the investments that are being made from all over the world make this an incredible moment," Bruzzano said, underlining that "in this moment, when the transition will impact so many people, from businesses to residents, it's so important to listen to all stakeholders, reach out and understand everyone's concerns, make sure no one is left behind as we navigate this transition."

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211285/LaPresse.jpg

SOURCE LaPresse
Product liability cases (excluding MDL Associated Cases) have generally increased over recent years, with subsets of cases clustered around specific large-scale litigation events

MENLO PARK, Calif., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lex Machina, a LexisNexis company, today releases its annual Product Liability Litigation Report. The report examines trends in product liability litigation in federal district courts and appellate courts. Focusing on the five-year period from 2018 to 2022, it surveys emerging trends in case filings, venues, judges, law firms, parties, timing metrics, case resolutions, findings, and damages. The report often focuses on different sets of data, e.g., filtering cases in order to provide analytics on general product liability cases, medical device/pharmaceutical cases, vehicle cases, and federal appellate product liability cases.

Lex Machina's 2023 Product Liability Litigation Report Highlights

"Lex Machina monitors different trends in product liability litigation through analyzing the kinds of data offered in this report," said Ron Porter, Lex Machina's product liability legal data expert and editor of the report. "By filtering to different subsets of cases  including product liability cases excluding MDL Associated Cases, medical/pharmaceutical cases, and vehicle cases  it's clear the analytics reveals two key trends. One, product liability cases are generally increasing over recent years. Two, spikes and dips in cases can generally be correlated with specific large-scale litigation events, which are discussed in more detail in the report. By analyzing the data, it's possible to gain crucial data-driven insights on the evolving landscape of product liability litigation."

Highlights from the report include:

In 2022, 5,826 product liability cases (excluding MDL Associated cases) were litigated in federal district courts.

In the five-year period from 2018 to 2022, the highest number of product liability cases was filed in the Southern District of Illinois , while Judge Rosenstengel from the Southern District of Illinois was the most active judge for product liability cases.

, while Judge Rosenstengel from the Southern District of was the most active judge for product liability cases. In the five-year period from 2018 to 2022, Syngenta AG was the most active defendant in general product liability cases (excluding MDL Associated Cases), while Johnson & Johnson was the most active defendant in medical/pharmaceutical cases, and Ford Motor Company was the most active defendant in vehicle cases.

Meyers & Flowers was the most active counsel representing plaintiffs in product liability cases in the five-year period from 2018 to 2022, while Kirkland & Ellis represented defendants in the highest number of product liability cases over the same period of time.

$214 million in total damages were awarded as Approved Class Action Settlement Damages from 2018 to 2022, while $201 million in total damages were awarded as Punitive Damages.

Lex Machina's reports and software enable practitioners to devise data-driven litigation strategies. The metrics in this report can help readers decide who to pursue as clients, whether to file a particular motion, or when to settle (and for how much). This research supplements traditional legal research and anecdotal data for a competitive edge in court.

Register here for a copy of the report: https://pages.lexmachina.com/2023ProductLiabilityReport_LP.html

Product Liability Litigation Report Webcast

Lex Machina is hosting a webcast to discuss the report on September 14, 2023 at noon ET/9am PT with Robbie Jost (Counsel at Crowell), Richard North, Jr. (Partner at Nelson Mullins), and Ron Porter (Lex Machina's Legal Data Expert in Product Liability Litigation), hosted by Aria Nejad (Lex Machina's In-house Counsel). Register for the event or view a recording: https://pages.lexmachina.com/2023ProductLiabilityReportWebcast_LP.html

About LexisNexis Legal & Professional

LexisNexis Legal & Professional provides legal, regulatory, and business information and analytics that help customers increase their productivity, improve decision-making, achieve better outcomes, and advance the rule of law around the world. As a digital pioneer, the company was the first to bring legal and business information online with its Lexis and Nexis services. LexisNexis Legal & Professional, which serves customers in more than 150 countries with 11,300 employees worldwide, is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers.

About Lex Machina

Lex Machina fundamentally changes how companies and law firms compete in the business and practice of law. The company provides strategic insights on judges, lawyers, law firms, parties, and other critical information across 20 federal practice areas and a rapidly growing number of state courts. Lex Machina allows law firms and companies to anticipate the behaviors and outcomes that different legal strategies will produce, enabling them to win cases and close business.

Lex Machina was named one of "Legal Tech's Most Promising Solution Providers" (CIO Review Awards 2022), "Greater Bay Area Top Workplaces 2022" (The San Francisco Chronicle Top Workplaces in the Bay Area 2022), "Legal Tech Company of the Year 2021" (CIO Review, 2021), "2021 Legal Technology Trailblazer" (National Law Journal Trailblazer Awards, 2021), Winner of the "Media Excellence" Award for Analytics/Big Data (13th Annual Media Excellence Award, 2021). Based in Silicon Valley, Lex Machina is part of LexisNexis, a leading global provider of legal, regulatory, and business information and analytics. For more information, please visit www.lexmachina.com.

SOURCE Lex Machina
Leading Technology Solutions Provider Welcomes Back Griffin to Spearhead Advisory and Consulting Practice Growth

CHICAGO, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SDI Presence LLC (SDI), a managed services provider (MSP) and certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) with Corporate Plus designation from the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), announces the return of Patrick Griffin as the Managing Director of SLED-West Advisory and Consulting Services. In his role, Griffin will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the advisory and consulting practice, including client relations, customer satisfaction, business expansion strategies, and more.

Griffin brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new position. Having previously served in leadership roles within SDI Presence, his return plays a strategic role in the firm's growth in the public sector. His deep understanding of the industry from over 40 years working in the public sector, coupled with his dynamic leadership style, is expected to drive the expansion of SDI Presence's footprint in the State, Local, and Education (SLED) markets in the western region.

"We look forward to welcoming back Pat to the SDI Presence team," said Terry Hackelman, Senior Vice President of SLED-West. "Pat's proven track record in driving client success and his passion for delivering innovative technology solutions align seamlessly with our commitment to excellence. Undoubtedly, his leadership will play a pivotal role in further establishing SDI Presence as a leader in the local government advisory and consulting space."

Griffin's role will encompass a range of responsibilities, including fostering strong client relationships, ensuring exceptional customer satisfaction, and strategically guiding business expansion initiatives. His dedication to leveraging technology to address the unique challenges faced by local government agencies and educational institutions will enhance SDI Presence's impact in the region.

Griffin has held various roles during his municipal careerincluding finance and community development leadership positions. He concluded his local government career as the Assistant City Manager for Chino, CA. Griffin then transitioned to the private sector, becoming a Principal at NexLevel Information Technology, overseeing their Southern California operations and accounts. Griffin was promoted to Vice President when NexLevel was acquired by SDI in 2017he served in both Delivery Executive and Sales roles during and after the transition.

Griffin can be reached directly at [email protected].

Griffin will be joining the SDI Team at the upcoming MISAC 2023 conference, scheduled to take place in Rancho Mirage, CA. The event, known for its focus on information technology and innovation in the public sector, offers a platform for industry professionals to network, learn about emerging trends, and explore cutting-edge solutions and technologies.

"We look forward to showcasing our latest solutions and offerings, as well as engaging with fellow industry experts at MISAC 2023," states Griffin. "It's a fantastic opportunity for us to share insights, exchange ideas, and collaborate on ways to drive positive change in the public sector."

SDI Presence's participation at MISAC 2023 underscores the company's commitment to assisting government and education clients with their legacy modernization journey. Please stop by booth #500 to chat with the SDI team to talk tech and more.

About SDI (SDI Presence LLC):

SDI Presence LLC is an IT consultancy and managed services provider (MSP) that leverages its strong team presence to advance our clients to a secure digital enterprise. With a 25-year corporate resume, SDI delivers strategic managed services, IT consulting, and multicloud solutions to optimize our clients' technology environments. SDI is a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) with Corporate Plus designation from the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) and a portfolio of clients that includes some of the nation's largest airports, utilities, commercial real estate portfolios, and government agencies. Connect with us on LinkedIn and X.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Christina Belmont

VP of Marketing

SDI Presence LLC

[email protected]

SOURCE SDI Presence LLC
Leading pharmatech unifies quality processes for greater efficiency, collaboration, and compliance

BARCELONA, Spain, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Veeva Systems (NYSE: VEEV) today announced that LTS LOHMANN Therapie-Systeme AG ("LTS"), a leading pharmaceutical technology company, is partnering with Veeva MedTech to advance its quality operations. LTS will use Veeva Vault QMS to improve process control and visibility, align global production sites, and increase audit readiness.

"As we continue to grow, we need a modern, scalable, and user-friendly quality management tool to harmonize and advance our quality processes across the organization," said Dr. Heike Barnikow-Bock, corporate vice president operations, quality projects and consulting, LTS. "With Veeva Vault QMS, we will strengthen oversight and GxP compliance while aligning with the quality requirements of our customers."

"Veeva's open collaboration and flexibility to meet our needs make it the perfect partner," said Christian Langer, corporate senior vice president of global quality at LTS. "The team's breadth of experience and focus on execution made completing this project in such a short amount of time possible."

With headquarters in Germany and four sites in North America, Europe, and Asia, LTS develops and manufactures drug delivery systems, such as transdermal patches, oral thin films, and wearable drug delivery devices. Vault QMS will help LTS manage and track quality processes, such as deviations, complaints, lab incidents, corrective and preventive actions, and change control. By improving its quality management processes, LTS can provide greater value to its partners and drive better patient outcomes, which aligns with the LTS purpose: "We CARE. We CREATE. We DELIVER."

"Veeva Vault QMS helps companies like LTS simplify quality processes for better efficiency while ensuring ongoing inspection readiness," said Patrik Brehm, director of quality strategy for Veeva MedTech in Europe. "Veeva is proud to partner with the team to help streamline its quality operations."

Veeva MedTech offers unified, connected cloud software solutions to help deliver medical devices and diagnostics to patients in need. It includes Veeva Vault products across research and development and commercial to help speed the total product development lifecycle for medtech companies.

Vault QMS is part of Vault Quality Suite, which brings together quality systems and processes on a single cloud platform to enable efficient quality management.

About Veeva Systems

Veeva is the global leader in cloud software for the life sciences industry. Committed to innovation, product excellence, and customer success, Veeva serves more than 1,000 customers, ranging from the world's largest biopharmaceutical companies to emerging biotechs. As a Public Benefit Corporation, Veeva is committed to balancing the interests of all stakeholders, including customers, employees, shareholders, and the industries it serves. For more information, visit veeva.com/eu.

Veeva Forward-looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements regarding Veeva's products and services and the expected results or benefits from use of our products and services. These statements are based on our current expectations. Actual results could differ materially from those provided in this release and we have no obligation to update such statements. There are numerous risks that have the potential to negatively impact our results, including the risks and uncertainties disclosed in our filing on Form 10-Q for the period ended July 31, 2023, which you can find here (a summary of risks which may impact our business can be found on pages 38 and 39), and in our subsequent SEC filings, which you can access at sec.gov.

Contact:

Jeremy Whittaker

Veeva Systems

+49-695-095-5486

jeremy.whittaker@veeva.com

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1488285/Veeva_Systems_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Veeva Systems
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) shows interest in more active participation in financing important projects in Azerbaijan, which is in line with the organization's development plans until 2030, Hani Salem Sonbol, CEO of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC), told reporters, Trend reports.

"Our focus will be on strategic projects such as renewable energy and green finance. We are also going to strengthen our cooperation with small and medium-sized enterprises in Azerbaijan. We have recently signed an important agreement with Rabita Bank, which I am sure will strengthen our partnership and help support the country's development. Importantly, our diverse range of products can be used in both the public and private sectors, as well as in mixed enterprises and state-owned companies," he said.

Hani Salem Sonbol also noted that ITFC is committed to more active cooperation with Azerbaijan and sees great potential to work together with stakeholders, contributing to the development of the region as a whole.

It should be noted that the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation is a member of the Islamic Development Bank Group and was established with the main purpose of trade development.

The IDB Group maintains strong relations with Azerbaijan and seeks to contribute to its socio-economic development. The Group is implementing projects worth about $1.2 billion in Azerbaijan.

The portfolio includes $956 million in IDB financing, $120.2 million in ICD (Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector) approved financing, $83.4 million in ITFC trade operations, and $19.4 million in other IDB Group funds and operations.
Atlas Gives Every Engineer Access to Sophisticated Manufacturing Advice and Offers CT Scan Analysis, CAD Comparison, Scan to Scan Comparison, Porosity Detection, and More

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lumafield today unveiled Atlas, a groundbreaking AI co-pilot that helps engineers work faster by answering questions and solving complex engineering and manufacturing challenges using plain language.

Atlas is a new tool in Voyager, Lumafield's cloud-based software for analyzing 3D scan and industrial CT scan data . Along with Atlas, Lumafield announced a major expansion of Voyager's capabilities, including the ability to upload, analyze, and share data from any 3D scanner.

Atlas is an AI co-pilot for engineers that can answer engineering questions and analyze specific parts in plain language. Atlas can speed material selection, cost engineering, root cause analysis, and more. Atlas is a new tool in Voyager, Lumafields cloud-based software for analyzing 3D scans and industrial CT scans. After uploading a 3D scan to Voyager, users can compare parts to their original CAD models, perform dimensional analysis, add bookmarks and comments, and share with collaborators.

A press packet with images and animations is available on Dropbox .

Background

Engineering teams have become increasingly distributed as supply chains stretch around the world and talented professionals opt to work remotely. However, distributed engineering teams struggle with coordination, costing time and money.

Dealing with 3D scan data is particularly challenging. Although 3D scanners have become essential tools for product development and manufacturing, their software is typically limited to local PCs, blocking collaboration.

Voyager and Atlas help engineering teams work faster by facilitating the transfer of both data and expertise.

Atlas: an AI co-pilot for engineers

Using Atlas is like working alongside a seasoned engineer. In addition to answering general engineering questions, it can analyze 3D scans, pinpoint issues, and suggest solutions.

Atlas speeds up work at every stage of the product development process, shaving hours from traditional engineering workflows. Atlas can suggest materials and manufacturing processes that suit specific use cases, perform cost engineering, troubleshoot problems, and perform root cause analysis.

For users who opt to share internal knowledge with Atlas, it can also collect, organize, and share key information to help teams work faster and more efficiently.

"In order to deliver the next generation of great productsfrom lifesaving medical devices to electric carsengineers need to push the limits of manufacturing," said Andreas Bastian, Lumafield's Co-Founder and Head of Product. "However, the knowledge required to do that is locked away in siloes, among a handful of manufacturing specialists scattered around the world. Atlas gives every engineer access to a level of expertise that's only been available to the largest and wealthiest companiesuntil now."

Users may try Atlas for free by opening any project in Voyager , such as this one .

Voyager: cloud-based analysis software for 3D scans and industrial CT scans

Atlas sits within Voyager, Lumafield's cloud-based software for visualizing and analyzing 3D scans and industrial CT scans . Voyager was released in 2022 as a companion to Lumafield's Neptune industrial X-ray CT scanner .

Industrial CT, or computed tomography , works on the same principles as medical CT but allows engineers to inspect invisible internal features in manufactured products. Customers have adopted Lumafield's technology to inspect gaskets and seals on consumer packaging , mechanical assemblies in medical devices , electronic components in airbags , and stitching in high-performance athletic shoes .

As of today, Voyager now allows anyone to upload scans from any 3D scannernot just Lumafield's own industrial CT scanners. Users can share scans with collaborators, take dimensions, and perform comparisons between scans and between a scan and its original CAD modelall in a web browser, with no software to install.

"Over 10,000 users have signed up for Voyager to view, analyze, and collaborate on industrial X-ray CT scans, proving that engineering teams are eager to find new ways to work faster," said Eduardo Torrealba, Co-Founder and CEO of Lumafield. "Voyager's newest capabilities make it a powerful tool for every engineer who works on designing or manufacturing physical products."

About Lumafield

Lumafield helps engineering teams work at the speed of light. Lumafield's Voyager analysis software and Atlas AI co-pilot find answers quickly and facilitate collaboration. Lumafield's Neptune industrial CT scanner arms engineers with X-ray vision, allowing them to look inside their products, inspect invisible features, and pinpoint problems before they reach customers.

Lumafield was founded in 2019 and is headquartered in Cambridge, Mass., with an office in San Francisco. Its Seed, Series A, and Series B investors include Lux Capital, Kleiner Perkins, DCVC, and Spark Capital. Additional investors include Haystack Ventures, Tony Fadell's Build Collective, and Figma founder Dylan Field.

Learn more at https://www.lumafield.com/ , or contact [email protected].

SOURCE Lumafield
MAINGEAR kicks off its 'drops' program with the North Series, a line of stylish gaming PCs based on the popular North PC case from Fractal Design; and unveils Noctua North Limited Edition!

WARREN, N.J., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Keeping the desktop PC at the bleeding edge of innovation and a staple of gaming culture, MAINGEAR , the leader in premium-quality, high-performance gaming PCs, just unveiled its MAINGEAR Drops program . As part of this program, MAINGEAR will be regularly dropping ultra-slick, ever-evolving series of preconfigured systems and exclusive, limited-edition builds inspired by some of the hottest vibes circulating the world of PC gaming.

At the core of MAINGEAR Drops exists two killer categories: 'Series' drops and 'Limited Edition' drops. Series drops are the release of an entire series of pre-configured gaming rigs featuring the industry's hottest cases, and cutting-edge components, with configurations spanning different price tiers. For enthusiasts who crave a truly unique and elevated experience, Limited Edition drops serve as testaments to individuality. These totally custom builds redefine the gaming experience with mind-blowing themes and components that give gamers a serious performance edge.

"We're diving back into our roots with MAINGEAR's Series and Limited Edition drops," said Wallace Santos, CEO and co-founder of MAINGEAR. "It's not just about hardware; it's a pulse check on the PC gaming community's heart. These drops seamlessly bridge our legacy, unparalleled quality, and the relentless evolution of PC gaming culture."

As part of this grand unveiling, MAINGEAR is announcing its new North Series drop, built around the wildly popular North desktop PC case by Fractal Design. Drawing inspiration from the lush vibes of walnut wood and brass, MAINGEAR's North Series captures the epitome of gaming performance with an air of sophistication and is available in a broad range of enthusiast-configured performance tiers. These builds are available with a variety of GPU options ranging from the new GeForce RTX 4060 to the monstrously powerful 4090, 13-generation Intel Core i5-13400F to i9-13900K processors, air or liquid cooling systems, and more. MAINGEAR North Series PCs start at just $1,299.

Hold onto your RGB-lit seats, because MAINGEAR is making this news a whole lot cooler. MAINGEAR has teamed up with internationally renowned cooling experts at Noctua to release the Noctua North Limited Edition  one of the most savage builds the company has ever revealed! This powerhouse PC flexes serious muscle, packing the Fractal North case full of a monstrous ASUS GeForce RTX 4080 OC Noctua Edition GPU and 24-core 13th-Gen Intel Core i9-13900K CPU. Keeping things cool is a silent hurricane of airflow being moved by a Noctua NH-D15 elite-class dual tower CPU cooler and a selection of premium Noctua cooling fans. The Noctua North is available now for $4,699.

"Working with MAINGEAR, we've collaboratively created a powerhouse PC that combines cutting-edge performance, exceptional cooling capabilities, and trending aesthetics," said Roland Mossig, CEO at Noctua. "A testament to both companies' commitment to excellence and innovation, the MAINGEAR Noctua North Limited Edition not only delivers top-tier performance but also maintains optimal temperatures for the utmost stability, without introducing any intrusive fan noise. We're especially happy to kick this off with the Fractal North case that has spurred so many Noctua-themed builds in the community and we look forward to working with MAINGEAR on more exciting PC drops in the future."

Like all MAINGEAR gaming PCs, every component in a Series and Limited Edition drop is handpicked and thoroughly tested for maximum compatibility, reliability, and performance. All drops are handcrafted by MAINGEAR builders in Warren, New Jersey, and undergo rigorous testing and quality assurance checks to uphold MAINGEAR's unparalleled dedication to excellence. Standing behind their products, every MAINGEAR PC is backed by a standard one-year warranty (upgradable to three years) and access to MAINGEAR's award-winning lifetime support.

For more information about MAINGEAR Drops and to explore the North Series and Limited Edition offerings, please visit www.maingear.com/drops . New drops will be announced regularly.

Click here for the press kit

About MAINGEAR:

MAINGEAR is a leader in high-performance gaming PCs. With a passion for building the best high-performance computers, MAINGEAR will continue to set the standard. MAINGEAR's mission is to deliver world-class computing solutions with a focus on customization, service, and performance.

About Noctua:

Designed in Austria, Noctua's premium cooling components are internationally renowned for their superb quietness, exceptional performance and thoroughgoing quality. Having received more than 6000 awards and recommendations from leading hardware websites and magazines, Noctua's fans and heatsinks are serving hundreds of thousands of satisfied customers around the globe.

*Note: Product specifications and offerings may be subject to change. All trademarks, service marks, or registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.*

CONTACT: Grace Halvorsen, [email protected]

SOURCE MAINGEAR
Study met primary and secondary endpoints confirming first Phase 3 study findings

MAPP2 population reflects PTSD demographic with approximately half of study participants identifying as racially or ethnically diverse

Company on track for NDA filing in 2023

SAN JOSE, Calif., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MAPS Public Benefit Corporation ("MAPS PBC"), a clinical-stage company dedicated to changing the way mental health conditions are treated, announced that data from the company's MAPP2 clinical trial, a multi-site Phase 3 study of MDMA-assisted therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder ("PTSD"), was published in the September issue of Nature Medicine.1 The MAPP2 study met its primary and secondary endpoints confirming the results seen in the first Phase 3 study (MAPP1) that were also published in Nature Medicine.

"MAPP2 data confirm the findings from MAPP1 suggesting the results may be generalized to a broader population of individuals with PTSD who vary not only in the severity of their symptoms, but also in their racial and ethnic backgrounds," said Jennifer Mitchell, Ph.D., professor of Neurology and Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences at UCSF and associate chief of staff for research and development at the San Francisco VA Medical Center. "The peer-reviewed publication of MAPP2 confirming the results seen in the first Phase 3 study helps validate the rigor of the data that we have collected in the pivotal program."

Participants in the MDMA-assisted therapy group experienced a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms versus participants receiving placebo with therapy as measured by a change from baseline in Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 ("CAPS-5") total severity score (p < 0.001). The data also demonstrated that MDMA-assisted therapy significantly reduced clinician-rated functional impairment as measured by change from baseline in the modified Sheehan Disability Scale ("SDS") (p = 0.0271). No serious adverse events were reported in either the MDMA group or the control group.1

"With two positive Phase 3 studies published, we are focused on pulling all of the data together to submit the new drug application for MDMA-assisted therapy to the FDA later this year," said Amy Emerson, chief executive officer, MAPS PBC. "Given the urgent need for novel effective treatment options for PTSD and with consistent results from two positive Phase 3 trials we are hopeful that MDMA-assisted therapy, if approved by the FDA, could be a new option for patients, providers and therapists to consider."

In exploratory outcomes, the study showed in the MDMA-assisted therapy group, 86.5% of participants experienced a clinically meaningful improvement at 18 weeks post-baseline, defined as a > 10-point reduction in CAPS-5 total severity score versus 69% in the placebo with therapy group. In addition, results showed that 71.2% of participants who received MDMA-assisted therapy, compared to 47.6% of participants receiving placebo plus therapy, no longer met DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for PTSD at the end of the study.

Study Design

MAPP2 was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 3 study assessing the efficacy and safety of MDMA-assisted therapy versus placebo with therapy in participants diagnosed with moderate or severe PTSD. The study enrolled adults ( > 18 years of age) who met full DSM-5 criteria for PTSD and had a CAPS-5 total severity score of > 28 (moderate or severe) and symptom duration of > six months. The study enrolled 121 participants and of those enrolled, 104 were randomized to either a group that received a split dose separated by one and a half to two hours of 80 or 120 mg MDMA hydrochloride initially followed by 40 or 60 mg during three sessions of therapy, or a group that received placebo plus extended sessions of therapy. In total, 74/104 (71.2%) of participants were assigned female sex at birth, with a higher proportion in the placebo group (42/51, 82.4%) than the MDMA-assisted therapy group (32/53, 60.4%). Participants were ethnically and racially diverse with 33.7% (35/104) identifying their race as other than White and 26.9% (28/104) identifying their ethnicity as Hispanic/Latino. Most participants had a comorbid psychiatric disorder and had PTSD for an average duration of 16 years. The average CAPS-5 score at baseline was 39.0 and was similar between groups. Overall, 28/104 (26.9%) and 76/104 (73.1%) of participants had moderate and severe PTSD respectively. Outcomes were assessed from baseline to the primary endpoint 18-weeks post-baseline visit.

Study Results

MDMA-assisted therapy significantly reduced PTSD symptoms versus placebo with therapy as measured by a reduction in CAPS-5 total severity score from baseline to 18-weeks showing a least-squares mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) change of -23.7 (-26.94, -20.44) for MDMA-assisted therapy versus 14.8 (-18.28, -11.28) for placebo with therapy. MDMA-assisted therapy also significantly reduced clinician-rated functional impairment as measured by a reduction in modified SDS from baseline to 18-weeks resulting in a least-squares mean (95% CI) change of 3.3 (-4.03, -2.60) for MDMA-assisted therapy and 2.1 (-2.89, -1.33) for placebo with therapy. Improvements were observed across all domains including family life, social life, and work life.

Other exploratory outcomes showed that at study termination, in the MDMA-assisted therapy group versus the placebo with therapy group respectively:

86.5% of participants experienced a clinically meaningful improvement 18-weeks post-baseline defined by a reduction in CAPS-5 total severity score of > 10, compared to 69%.

10, compared to 69%. 71.2% of participants no longer met DSM-5 criteria for PTSD compared to 47.6%.

46.2% met remission criteria compared to 21.4%.

Safety Findings

Safety analysis evaluated treatment emergent adverse events ("TEAEs") in all participants who received MDMA or placebo. Common adverse events reported were similar to prior studies and consistent with the expected effects of MDMA.2,3 The most frequently reported adverse events were muscle tightness, nausea, decreased appetite, and hyperhidrosis. These were mostly transient and were mild or moderate in severity.

In accordance with the study protocol, special attention was paid to a subset of adverse events, termed treatment emergent adverse events of special interest ("TEAESIs"), relating to cardiac function, suicide risk, and MDMA abuse, misuse, or diversion. Consistent with MAPP1, there were no new major safety issues reported and no reports of MDMA abuse or dependence, including in participants with histories of, or current, mild or moderate alcohol and substance-use disorders. Rates of cardiac TEAEs were low and they were mild. Participants in the MDMA-assisted therapy group experienced temporary dose-dependent increases in mean blood pressure and pulse during experimental sessions compared with the placebo group, consistent with MDMA's sympathomimetic effects. 4,5,6 These transient elevations did not require clinical intervention, including among the subset of participants with well-controlled hypertension. Consistent with PTSD, suicidal ideation was observed in both groups however, MDMA did not appear to increase this risk, and no suicidal behavior was observed.

MDMA-assisted therapy has not been approved by any regulatory agency. The safety and efficacy of MDMA-assisted therapy have not been established for the treatment of PTSD.



About MDMA

MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxy-methamphetamine) is an entactogen  a class of psychoactive drugs that produce experiences of emotional communion, oneness, relatedness, emotional openness and are thought to have use for various medical conditions.7 In the 1960's and 1970's MDMA was used in conjunction with psychological therapy by mental health providers to enhance patients' access, processing, and communication of difficult emotions and experiences.8 In 1985, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency ("DEA") made MDMA a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act preventing it from being used for recreational or medical use.9 Since then, research has shown the unique properties of MDMA allow it to act as a powerful catalyst to support psychotherapy by helping attenuate the brain's fear response allowing patients to access and process painful memories without being overwhelmed.10 With a growing body of evidence supporting the potential medical use of MDMA, in 2017 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") granted MDMA-assisted therapy Breakthrough Therapy designation, a process designed to expedite the development and review of drugs intended to treat serious conditions and that preliminary clinical evidence indicates that it may demonstrate substantial improvement over available therapies. MAPS PBC expects to submit a new drug application including data from two Phase 3 studies (MAPP1 and MAPP2) that showed clinically significant improvements in PTSD symptoms following acute treatment with MDMA-assisted therapy to the FDA in 2023. If approved by the FDA, the DEA would reschedule MDMA making it available for prescription medical use. MDMA-assisted therapy is also being studied in other indications.

ABOUT PTSD

PTSD is a mental health condition affecting approximately 13 million Americans each year11, yet currently available treatments only provide modest efficacy.12 People with PTSD can experience debilitating symptoms that impact nearly all areas of a person's life.13 They also frequently experience comorbidities including anxiety, depression, and substance use disorder.14 PTSD has an enormous economic impact resulting in an annual burden of over $200 billion.15 Currently available treatments for PTSD are inadequate to address the full spectrum of patients who need treatment and may not provide adequate relief from debilitating symptoms.12 These limitations combined with high treatment discontinuation rates16 underscore the urgent need for novel and effective therapies.

ABOUT MAPS PUBLIC BENEFIT CORPORATION (MAPS PBC)

MAPS Public Benefit Corporation (MAPS PBC) is focused on developing and commercializing prescription psychedelics to bring better treatments to those living with mental health conditions. MAPS PBC has completed two phase 3 clinical trials evaluating investigational MDMA-assisted therapy as a potential treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), both of which met their pre-specified primary and secondary endpoints.1,2 Founded in 2014, MAPS PBC is a subsidiary of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. For more information, please visit www.mapsbcorp.com and connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook.

1 Mitchell JM, Ot'alora MG et al. MDMA-assisted therapy for moderate to severe PTSD: a randomized, placebo-controlled phase 3 trial. Nat Med. 2023 Sept 14 doi: 10.1038/s41591-023-02565-4. Online ahead of print.

2 Mitchell JM, Bogenschutz M, Lilienstein A, et al. MDMA-assisted therapy for severe PTSD: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 study. Nat Med 609 2021;27:102533.

3 Jerome L, Feduccia AA, Wang JB, et al. Long-term follow-up outcomes of MDMA677 assisted psychotherapy for treatment of PTSD: a longitudinal pooled analysis of six 678 phase 2 trials. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020;237:248597.

4 Feduccia AA, Mithoefer MC. MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD: are memory reconsolidation and fear extinction underlying mechanisms? Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 201;84:221-9

5 Lester SJ, Baggott M, Welm S, et al. Cardiovascular Effects of 3,4-methlenedioxymethamphetamine: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Ann Intern Med 2000;133:969-73.

6 Vizeli P, Liechti ME. Safety pharmacology of acute MDMA administration in healthy 683 subjects. J Psychopharmacol. 2017;31(5):576-88.

7 O'Neil, M.J., The Merck Index: An Encyclopedia of chemicals, drugs and biologicals. Merck Research Laboratories, Merck and Co. Inc, Whitehouse station, New Jersey, 2006. 319

8 Wagner MT, Mithoefer MC, Mithoefer AT, MacAulay RK, Jerome L, Yazar-Klosinski B, Doblin R. Therapeutic effect of increased openness: Investigating mechanism of action in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. J Psychopharmacol. 2017 Aug;31(8):967-974. doi: 10.1177/0269881117711712. Epub 2017 Jun 21. PMID: 28635375; PMCID: PMC5544120.

9 National Institute on Drug Abuse What is the history of MDMA? | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov). Accessed, September 8, 2023. What is the history of MDMA? | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)

10 Yazar-Klosinski B, Mithoefer MC. Potential Psychiatric Uses for MDMA. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 2016 Nov 9. https://doi.org/10.1002/cpt.565

11 VA National Center for PTSD. US Department of Veterans Affairs. Accessed February 14, 2023. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/common/common_adults.asp

12 Morina N. Remission from post-traumatic stress disorder in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of long term outcome studies. Clin Psychol Rev. (2014) Apr;34(3):249-55. doi: 10.1016/j.cpr.2014.03.002.

13 The Mayo Clinic, PTSD, Symptoms and Causes www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355967c

14 Grinage B.D. Diagnosis and Management of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. Am Fam Physician. (2003);68(12):2401-2409.

15 Davis LL. The economic burden of posttraumatic stress disorder in the United States from a societal perspective. J Clin Psychiatry. (2022) Apr 25;83(3):21m14116. doi: 10.4088/JCP.21m14116.

16 Varker T. Dropout from guideline-recommended psychological treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders Reports (2021) Apr 2021, 100093. doi: 10.1016/j.jadr.2021.100093

SOURCE MAPS PBC
The five-time ASCAP Christian Songwriter of the Year has amassed more than 130 career songwriting credits including nearly 50 ASCAP most performed song honors

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ASCAP, the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers, the only US PRO that operates on a not-for-profit basis, will honor songwriter and artist Matthew West with the ASCAP Golden Note Award.

A five-time Grammy nominee, West has had cuts by Rascal Flatts, Scotty McCreery, Casting Crowns (including back-to-back #1 singles), Michael W. Smith and Amy Grant, among others, and has notched 30 #1 songs as an artist and songwriter combined. He has released 11 albums with songs including the RIAA platinum-certified single, "The Motions," and the RIAA gold-certified single, "Hello, My Name Is." West's work has earned him a Billboard Music Award, an American Music Award, multiple Dove Awards, and a Primetime Emmy Award nomination. Additionally, West has authored six books and along with his father created popwe, a nonprofit ministry.

"Matthew's remarkable gift for lifting others up with his music transcends genre or format," said ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President Paul Williams. "He is one of our most-lauded Christian songwriters and artists and from the start of his nearly two-decade career, stars from Christian, country, and pop music have brought his passionate and profound songs of hope and healing to audiences around the world. We congratulate him on this well-deserved award."

The award will be presented at ASCAP's Christian Music Awards Celebration, Monday, October 2, in Nashville, an invitation-only party that honors the songwriters and publishers of ASCAP's most performed songs in Christian music of the past year.

The ASCAP Golden Note Award is presented to songwriters, composers, and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones. Previous recipients include Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, Michael W. Smith, Mark Lowry, Mary Mary and more.

About ASCAP

The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) is a membership association of more than 930,000 songwriters, composers and music publishers, and represents some of the world's most talented music creators. Founded and governed by songwriters, composers and publishers, it is the only performing rights organization in the U.S. that operates on a not-for-profit basis. ASCAP licenses a repertory of over 18 million musical works to hundreds of thousands of businesses that use music, including streaming services, cable television, radio and satellite radio and brick and mortar businesses such as retail stores, hotels, clubs, restaurants and bars. ASCAP collects the licensing fees; identifies, matches and processes trillions of performances every year; and returns nearly 90 cents of every dollar back to its members as royalties. The ASCAP blanket license offers an efficient solution for businesses to legally perform ASCAP music while respecting the right of songwriters and composers to be paid fairly. ASCAP puts music creators first, advocating for their rights and the value of music on Capitol Hill, driving innovation that moves the industry forward, building community and providing the resources and support that creators need to succeed in their careers. Learn more and stay in touch at www.ascap.com, on Twitter and Instagram @ASCAP and on Facebook.

SOURCE ASCAP
New "Finding Home" data reveals the increasing preferences for location amenities and a sense of community offered by mid-size urban cities

ST. LOUIS, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The looming effects of COVID, coupled with an uncertain economic climate, are making way for a new migration trend  Americans are moving from large metropolitan areas to mid-size cities, and recent Mayflower Transit moving data and customer feedback has made this clear. The often-overlooked mid-size city offers comparable amenities to a larger metropolitan area at a lower cost of living, providing a better quality of life. These findings challenge the long-held belief that bigger cities are better, while highlighting the changing preferences and priorities of the American population.

Mayflower Finding Home data shows boom in mid-size metro areas in the U.S.

As part of the 2023 Mayflower "Finding Home" campaign , Mayflower surveyed thousands of individuals across the country over the last two years (movers, past movers and future movers) to understand what drove them to choose a particular city. The results showed a significant shift in mindset, with many Americans now recognizing the benefits of mid-size cities over their larger counterparts.

Based on inbound moves from Mayflower data, the mid-size cities with appealing lifestyle offerings include:

- Wilmington, North Carolina (81% inbound)

- Santa Fe, New Mexico (75% inbound)

- Knoxville, Tennessee (70% inbound)

- Greenville/Spartanburg, South Carolina (67% inbound)

- Ashville, North Carolina (66% inbound)

- Greensboro/Winston Salem, North Carolina (65% inbound)

- Fayetteville, Arkansas (65% inbound)

- Charlotte, North Carolina (64% inbound)

- Indianapolis, Indiana (60% inbound)

One of the key factors driving this trend is the cost of living, with Mayflower's Finding Home survey results revealing that 91% of movers say cost of living is an important factor when buying a home .

"While larger cities have traditionally been associated with higher expenses, mid-size cities offer a more affordable lifestyle without compromising on amenities and opportunities," Mayflower's Vice President of Corporate Communications Eily Cummings said. "Our customers are sharing incredible stories of the importance of living near an abundance of outdoor space, where they have access to arts and cultural venues, some nightlife and less traffic. As the benefits of living in mid-size cities become more apparent, it is expected that this trend will continue to shape the future of urban living across the country."

Mid-size cities are often characterized by a strong sense of community and a slower pace of life. Residents reported feeling more connected to their neighbors and experiencing a greater sense of belonging, making mid-size cities an attractive option for those seeking a more fulfilling and connected lifestyle.

"Everything is attractive here," Karen Merritt, who recently moved from California to Asheville, North Carolina, said. "It's green all the time! There is an abundance of fresh, locally grown food, and the art community is amazing. I have met many Californians here since I arrived, and they are transplants like me  most of them have left for similar reasons."

According to the survey:

Nearly half (48%) of movers say the proximity to arts and culture venues helped influence where they moved.

Roughly two thirds (67%) indicate the weather as a top influence, followed by proximity to parks, green spaces and nature trails (61%).

Other top reasons for moving or considering moving include wanting to be closer to family (32%), financial reasons (28%) and to accept a new job (19%). In fact, relocating to states for a higher rate of pay is on many movers' minds, with 61% of movers saying they would relocate across states.

37% of movers have started a side hustle due to the rising cost of living. The businesses they are pursuing include: 36% Freelancing/consulting 31% Small business 24% Content creation



"They (Ashville residents) are supporting small businesses and the surrounding communities in a big way," Merritt said. "I want to start a small business here. I'm excited to see a community that supports small businesses."

These recent findings will have significant implications for urban planning and development in mid-size cities. As more Americans move, policymakers and city planners will need to adapt to accommodate this shifting trend. Investments in infrastructure, transportation and community development will be crucial to ensure the continued growth and success of these cities.

"Knoxville isn't a small town, but it's not big like Los Angeles," Ron Wollard, who recently moved from California to Knoxville, Tennessee, to be closer to family said. "There is lots to do, Smoky Mountain National Park is right here so there are recreational opportunities and a thriving economy. It is a nice blend, and it is not a problem getting from one place to another."

To learn more about Mayflower and the 2023 "Finding Home" study, visit Mayflower.com.

Survey Background and Methodology

The 2023 Mayflower Finding Home study is based on household moves handled by Mayflower within the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C. and ranks the metropolitan statistical areas based off high inbound percentages (55 percent or more) of total moves in each city. TRUE Global Intelligence, the in-house research practice of FleishmanHillard, fielded online surveys of U.S. adults between August 23-26, 2022, and September 13-23, 2021, to identify trends influencing relocation across the U.S. The results of both studies are representative of the U.S. population by gender, generation, and U.S. Census region. The 2022 survey included a total of n=1,000 adults from Gen Z through Baby Boomers (ages 18-76) split by those who have moved to a different state within the past two years (n=550) and those who plan to move to a different state within the next two years (n=550). The 2021 survey included a total of n=1,000 adults who have moved 300 or more miles within the past two years.

About Mayflower

Mayflower is America's most recognized and trusted moving company offering a full range of moving services. With headquarters in suburban St. Louis, Mayflower maintains a network of 200 affiliated agencies. Mayflower's annual "Finding Home" study identifies trends influencing relocation across the U.S. For more information about Mayflower and its services, visit: Mayflower.com.

SOURCE Mayflower
Driven by advances in technology from Adobe, Amazon Web Services and NVIDIA, this disruptive innovation moves Media.Monks' broadcast systems into a new arena

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Media.Monks, the purely digital operating brand of S4Capital plc, is announcing an AI offering that will infuse machine learning into its software-defined production solution to deliver fans hyper-personalized content across new media formats. Media.Monks will share more details alongside NVIDIA and Amazon Web Services on stage at the 2023 International Broadcasting Convention (IBC) from 15  18 September in Amsterdam, NL.

"Our goal is to deliver a more personalized experience for consumers and brands as efficiently as possible." Post this Media.Monks experts use cutting edge technology from Adobe, AWS and NVIDIA to revolutionize the fan experience with software-defined production and AI

The proprietary system utilizes AI and machine learning to select highlights from live broadcasts and more effectively distribute custom content highlights to tailored, interest-based audiences.

"Our goal is to deliver a more personalized experience for consumers and brands as efficiently as possible," said Lewis Smithingham, SVP of Innovation at Media.Monks. "Fans are increasingly craving personalized content they can watch on non-linear channels, so we're using the latest GPUs, networking technologies and software platforms from NVIDIA and AWS to build upon our next-generation broadcasting solution and deliver the content people most want to watch."

"The future of broadcast is AI-powered and software-defined," said Bob Pette, Vice President and General Manager of Professional Visualization at NVIDIA. "Our collaboration with Media.Monks will help deliver a more engaging and personalized experience for brands and consumers."

By eliminating the need for single-use broadcast appliances, Media.Monks' software-defined production system provides limitless versatility to meet the ever-changing demands of multi-format delivery to new media forms, screens and platforms.

The Excellence in Sustainability Award-winning workflow significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions commonly associated with live broadcast production workflows.

Available immediately as a production, consulting and integration service, software-defined production increases reliability through cloud redundancy and distributed global staffingand slashes costs from traditional broadcast set-ups by an estimated 50% or more.

The system can be efficiently cloud-deployed on Amazon Web Services (AWS) in a standard or edge ecosystem, or deployed locally to allow a nimble crew to capture live content on-site for distribution to remote teams.

Livestreaming multi-camera shows at up to 5K 60fps, and at speeds of 50Mbps or greater from event locations to viewers globally, is made possible by collaborations with pioneering companies including Adobe, AWS, Central Control, Frame.io, NVIDIA, RED Digital Cinema, The Switch and Vizrt.

Media.Monks will join their collaborators on stage and share practical takeaways for next-generation broadcasting and the future of immersive media during three sessions at IBC 2023.

16 September 2023 , 10:00-10:45 | "How to approach AI and gain a competitive edge" | Join Media.Monks, Peacock TV, and mireality for a discussion on experimentation in AI and practical use-cases for the now.

| "How to approach AI and gain a competitive edge" | Join Media.Monks, Peacock TV, and mireality for a discussion on experimentation in AI and practical use-cases for the now. 16 September 2023 , 14:30-15:15 | "Tuned Into Tomorrow: Software-defined broadcast" | Join Media.Monks, AWS and NVIDIA in this panel, where we will explore the foundations of true software-defined broadcast infrastructure and the creative workflows that it enables.

| "Tuned Into Tomorrow: Software-defined broadcast" | Join Media.Monks, AWS and NVIDIA in this panel, where we will explore the foundations of true software-defined broadcast infrastructure and the creative workflows that it enables. 18 September; 13:00-13:30 | "Is in-game advertising a game-changer?" | Join Media.Monks, EA Games, Activision Blizzard Media and Omdia for a conversation on the opportunities for in-game advertising and how the industry's key players are leveraging streaming services to reach gamers and promote their products.

Follow Media.Monks on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates from the floor at #IBC2023.

About Media.Monks

Media.Monks is the purely digital operating brand of S4Capital plc that connects 8,600+ digital natives across one global team. We are united by a mission to shift industries forward and pave the path towards ambitious outcomes so our clients and our people can realize their full potential for growth. Our unified model combines solutions in media, data, social, platforms, studio, experience, brand and technology services to help our clients continuously reinvent themselves throughout increasingly rapid cycles of disruption. Our efforts to shape culture, build innovative technologies and unlock the future of growth have earned recognition from numerous esteemed panels: we maintain a constant presence on Adweek's Fastest Growing lists (2019-22), regular recognition at Cannes Lions, inclusion in AdExchanger's Programmatic Power Players (2020-23), the title of Webby Production Company of the Year (2021-23), a record number of FWAs, and have earned a spot on Newsweek's Top 100 Global Most Loved Workplaces 2023. Together, these achievements solidify our experience in digital innovation, excellence in craft, and commitment to personal growth.

About S4Capital

S4Capital plc (SFOR.L) is the tech-led, new age/new era digital advertising, marketing and technology services company, established by Sir Martin Sorrell in May 2018.

Our strategy is to build a purely digital advertising and marketing services business for global, multinational, regional, and local clients, and millennial-driven influencer brands. This will be achieved by integrating leading businesses in three practices: Content, Data&digital media and Technology Services, along with an emphasis on 'faster, better, cheaper, more' execution in an always-on consumer-led environment, with a unitary structure.

Victor Knaap, Wesley ter Haar, Christopher S. Martin, Scott Spirit and Mary Basterfield all joined the S4Capital Board as Executive Directors. The S4Capital Board also includes Rupert Faure Walker, Paul Roy, Daniel Pinto, Sue Prevezer, Elizabeth Buchanan, Naoko Okumoto, Margaret Ma Connolly, Miles Young and Colin Day.

The Company now has approximately 8,600 people in 32 countries with approximately 70% of revenue across the Americas, 20% across Europe, the Middle East and Africa and 10% across Asia-Pacific. The longer-term objective is a geographic split of 60%:20%:20%. Content currently accounts for approximately 60% of revenue, Data&digital media 30% and Technology Services 10%. The long-term objective for the practices is a split of 50%:25%:25%.

Sir Martin was CEO of WPP for 33 years, building it from a 1 million 'shell' company in 1985 into the world's largest advertising and marketing services company, with a market capitalisation of over 16 billion on the day he left. Prior to that Sir Martin was Group Financial Director of Saatchi & Saatchi Company Plc for nine years.

Media contact:

Sarah Murray

402-658-9341

[email protected]

SOURCE Media.Monks
The popular, all-natural, ready-to-drink cocktails hits store shelves this month

SILVER CITY, N.M., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Mixed-Up Cocktail Co (Mixed-Up), creator and processor of award-winning ready-to-drink (RTD) canned cocktails under the parent company Little Toad Creek Distillery, today announced the company's product availability in select Whole Foods in Colorado, southern California, and Massachusetts. This comes with increased market demand for an all-natural craft cocktail in a can that offers real booze and fruit juice, minus the preservatives.

Mixed-Up Cocktail Co is available in select Whole Foods across the country. Mixed-Up cocktails are all-natural with real booze, fruit juice, and zero preservatives.

"We heard what customers wanted and happily provided," says Teresa Dahl-Bredine, co-founder of Mixed-Up Cocktail Co alongside husband David Crosley. "Whole Foods has customers who want to know exactly what's in their drink. You can pronounce everything we put in our cans  booze, real fruit juice (never from concentrate), agave nectar, and, in the case of the mojito, freshly steeped mint. That's it. There is a huge demand for this kind of transparency for consumers, and Whole Foods has been perfect for helping us get Mixed-Up cocktails in their hands. We've also been in talks with purchasers in Japan and Europe where there's a lot of desire for this type of drink, and we cannot wait to take our canned cocktails global."

This comes after a successful launch into Costco earlier this year, along with online sales through Get Stocked and Three Brothers. Mixed-Up cocktails are currently available in stores in 6 states  New Mexico, California, Texas, Colorado, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, but can be shipped to most states in the USA through online retailers.

With the success of the main Mixed-Up cocktail flavor sales, it was only a matter of time before the company would explore new options to meet market demand. A massive expansion to the bottling and processing line is currently underway, granting the ability to produce up to 120,000 cans per month. This will be critical in meeting the increased demand for all-natural craft cocktails and expanding into more Whole Foods across the country.

About Mixed-Up Cocktail Co

Mixed-Up Cocktails are made by Little Toad Creek Brewery & Distillery in Silver City, New Mexico. Little Toad Creek first opened in 2012 in the remote mountains of the Gila Wilderness. Over the years, the company (founded by New Mexico natives Teresa Dahl-Bredine and David Crosley) has operated multiple tasting rooms and developed countless recipes for beer, spirits, cocktails, and food.

In 2020, Little Toad Creek launched Mixed Up Cocktail Co, insisting on bringing only the best ingredients to the can. They distill, blend, can, and pasteurize at their own facilities, which allows them to ensure the quality of ingredients and final product. They are currently upsizing their facility, adding two new stills and state-of-the art can filling, pasteurizing and packaging equipment, which will allow them to go from the current 1000 cases per week capacity to 30,000 cases per week. Production is slated to begin at the new facility in December 2024. Mixed-Up Cocktail Co is continually investing in the growth and sustainability of the company.

For more information, contact:

Sidney Reed - Director of Marketing

720.207.3068

365337@email4pr.com

SOURCE Mixed-Up Cocktail Co
BUFFALO, N.Y., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- M&T Bank (NYSE:MTB) today announced its appointment of Phil Cohen as Regional President of Maine. In this role, Cohen will partner with M&T's Community Bank leadership teamwhich includes members from its retail, business banking, wealth management, and charitable teamsto continue developing M&T's business and engagement in The Pine Tree State. Cohen will continue to serve in his role as Commercial Senior Group Manager Commercial Real Estate New Hampshire/Maine. He assumes this new role following the retirement of Dan Thornton earlier this year.

Phil Cohen, M&T Bank Regional President, Maine

"Phil's combination of deep banking experience and knowledge of Maine continues to be an asset to M&T, our partners, and our customers," said Mike Keegan, M&T Bank Senior Executive Vice President and Head of Community Banking. "We empower regional leaders to bring all the enterprise capabilities of a large bank to the communities we serve by delivering a unique and customized banking experience to our customers."

Under its local engagement model, M&T separates the geographic areas it serves into community regions led by regional presidents. Because they know their communities best, these teams work to create differentiated strategies to serve their markets, combining the capabilities of a large institution with the care and empathy of a neighborhood bank. They also make decisions locally about community activities, grants, and lending.

"It's an amazing opportunity to serve as regional president," said Cohen. "I've long admired Maine since first experiencing its quality of life in my childhood and having now worked in the region for almost two decades, I remain inspired by Maine's unique geography, robust economy, and resilient workforce. I look forward to working throughout the community to continue to build upon the positive economic momentum in the state."

Cohen joined M&T in 2022 following its acquisition of People's United Bank and has been with the combined organization for 18 years, most recently as Group Manager for the Commercial Real Estate teams in Maine and New Hampshire. He has been an active member of M&T's New Hampshire Charitable Contributions Committee.

Cohen is an active member of the community and currently serves as Chairperson of the Economic Development Commission (EDC) of Portsmouth, NH, and has been involved with the EDC for 12 years. He also serves on the board of the Chamber Collaborative of Greater Portsmouth. In addition, Cohen is a 14-year member of the Board of Directors for The Housing Partnership, a non-profit affordable housing developer based in the Seacoast Region of New Hampshire, where he currently serves as Treasurer.

About M&T Bank

M&T Bank Corporation is a financial holding company headquartered in Buffalo, New York. M&T's principal banking subsidiary, M&T Bank, provides banking products and services in 12 states across the northeastern U.S. from Maine to Virginia and Washington, D.C. Trust-related services are provided in select markets in the U.S. and abroad by M&T's Wilmington Trust-affiliated companies and by M&T Bank. For more information about M&T Bank, visit www.mtb.com.

Media Contact:

Frank Lentini

M&T Bank

+1 (929) 651-0447

[email protected]

 2023 M&T Bank. Member FDIC.

SOURCE M&T Bank Corporation
DALLAS, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MTX Group is pleased to announce its partnership with The KSquare Group, a leading mavQ and Salesforce implementation partner in the LATAM and Caribbean region, to drive outcomes with CRM + Data + AI. This partnership will enable the organizations to expand their combined offerings and domain expert resources in the LATAM and Caribbean markets.

By leveraging leading cloud technologies, the partnership will create opportunities in LATAM to tackle growing market demand in CRM + Data + AI. Post this This partnership will enable the organizations to expand their combined offerings and domain expert resources in the LATAM and Caribbean markets.

Headquartered in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, the companies will support their global partners, clients, and prospects in the commercial and public sector market. Their capabilities will drive MTX's vision of creating a people-centric impact and digital transformation in new regions.

"Our partnership enables us to bring combined offerings and resources to the market needs rapidly as organizations look to innovation with CRM + Data + AI. We are excited to expand our combined brand awareness in the enterprise and public sector market with laser focus in driving outcomes."  MTX Founder & CEO Das Nobel.

The strategic partnership will place a strong focus on the following industries:

Financial Services: CRM + Data + AI market demand is growing exponentially, and this partnership brings speed to market with innovation in the banking, insurance, asset, and wealth management industries. Health & Life Sciences: MTX and KSquare are composed of multidisciplinary experts dedicated to advancing the healthcare industry. MTX industry experts are focused on providers, payers, pharmacies, and MedTech to develop life-saving solutions through this partnership. Their innovative ecosystem of healthcare-related accelerators will help organizations navigate complex public health issues, streamline the delivery of health and mental health services, meet complex regulatory requirements, and advance industry research. KSquare brings extensive experience in Salesforce Healthcare CRM, enabling healthcare providers to operate efficiently and effectively. Public Sector: MTX's public sector credentials are in high demand in the LATAM and Caribbean market for the Saas providers. This partnership enables driving early-stage opportunities for cloud transformation journeys.

"This partnership will allow KSquare and MTX to further support our clients and deliver meaningful outcomes to the communities we serve. I look forward to working with MTX Founder & CEO, Das Nobel as we explore new opportunities in LATAM and Carribeans."  KSquare CEO & Chairman, Varma Buddharaju.

By leveraging leading cloud technologies, the partnership will create opportunities to tackle growing market demand in CRM + Data + AI. MTX and KSquare further their partnership at Dreamforce 2023, hosting a luxury yacht event to connect with global leaders and partners.

ABOUT MTX GROUP INC.

MTX Group Inc. is a global technology consulting firm that enables organizations to modernize through digital transformation. With data as the new currency, MTX helps transform long-term strategy with outcomes in mind around happiness, health, and economics. MTX improves decision-making with speed and quality by partnering with leading cloud technologies.

ABOUT THE KSQUARE GROUP

The KSquare Group is all about building lasting partnerships with our clients and helping you deliver on your important mission in ways that only we can. With expertise in software engineering, platform implementation, UI/UX design, and managed services, The KSquare Group is all about building partnerships with our clients to help them scale and grow faster than before.

SOURCE MTX Group
STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MasterExchange, a platform enabling individuals to invest in music in the form of royalty shares sold out its first offering in the song `Sofia' by Alvaro Soler, sold by the co-producer T.I Jakke. This unprecedented feat underscores the platform's position at the forefront of innovative music investment opportunities in Europe.

'Sofia,' released on July 15th, 2016 has streamed over 2 billion streams across platforms and gone platinum eight times in Italy and two in Spain. Its steady stream of streams over the past seven years translates into an average historical yearly yield of over 10%, providing investors cash flow in the form of future music royalties.

"The response to this IMO has been overwhelming, showcasing the resounding appetite for music-based investments. Demand was so high that the offering was oversubscribed, attesting to the fan- and market appetite of investing in music." Alexander Fred-Ojala, CEO at MasterExchange.

As the offering was oversubscribed, for those who didn't secure shares in this IMO, the Exchange - the secondary market on MasterExchange - is an opportunity to buy shares traded between users. This platform allows users to buy and sell shares among themselves, fostering a dynamic and vibrant community of music enthusiasts and investors.

MasterExchange is now gearing up for several more releases and IMOs during the fall, and the team is truly excited about the music investment opportunities that they'll soon bring to the world!

For media inquiries, please reach out to:

press@masterexchange.com

+1 310 861 4560

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/22693/3834981/2294509.pdf Press Release (PDF) https://mb.cision.com/Public/22693/3834981/ac1d507007bbdb96_org.jpg MX desktop whitebg https://mb.cision.com/Public/22693/3834981/b9a161aab3fbe131_org.png MX desktop https://mb.cision.com/Public/22693/3834981/bb7e185d2e519c13_org.png MX mobile https://mb.cision.com/Public/22693/3834981/bf2e6af61b3117ba_org.jpg MX mobile whitebg

SOURCE MasterExchange
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. Fostering stronger cooperation with Central Asian countries has consistently been a cornerstone of Azerbaijan's foreign policy. President Ilham Aliyev's dedicated focus on forging partnerships with each of the Central Asian economies has played a pivotal role in fortifying vital connections with the South Caucasus.

In the present geopolitical environment, all states of Central Asia are actively pursuing enhanced cooperation with Azerbaijan across diverse directions. This includes Kazakhstan, which is working towards increasing its oil exports through Azerbaijani-built energy infrastructure. Turkmenistan is also seeking collaboration with Azerbaijan on gas exports as part of a project that is still in the draft, or Uzbekistan that is demonstrating a strong desire to jointly work on the development of the Middle Corridor, which currently serves as the crucial route for accessing the European market for all Central Asian economies.

Despite the fact that Tajikistan is a country that not only lacks common borders with Azerbaijan via the Caspian Sea, but is also geographically distant from Azerbaijan, the relations between the two states are much closer than they may appear.

Currently, Tajikistan and Azerbaijan are collaborating on numerous economic projects, encompassing the energy sector, the oil industry, and the aluminum industry. Key sectors for economic collaboration between Tajikistan and Azerbaijan comprise metallurgy, the agro-industrial complex, energy, light industry, transportation, telecommunications, and the financial sector.

As of April this year, Azerbaijan and Tajikistan had established a legal foundation for their bilateral cooperation through approximately 62 agreements covering various areas of collaboration. On April 5, 2023, an additional 14 agreements spanning various sectors were introduced. Among these, a crucial one is the action plan outlining economic cooperation between the two governments until 2025, which is expected to serve as the cornerstone for the development of effective mechanisms to strengthen their bilateral ties.

One of the most promising documents is the agreement pertaining to cooperation in the transportation sector. The Protocol for the exchange of advance information on goods and vehicles transported between Azerbaijan and Tajikistan will significantly boost trade relations and streamline logistics. Azerbaijan has established robust transport connections with all Central Asian countries and is continually striving to enhance them, which has led the country to evolve into a regional transportation hub. Tajikistan stands to gain immensely from this cooperation.

Other agreements include promotion of investments, start-ups and entrepreneurship, as well as cooperation in humanitarian and culture fields.

In the energy field, Azerbaijan and Tajikistan have initiated highly promising projects in recent times. After the 6th session of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation between Tajikistan and Azerbaijan in Baku on July 7, 2023, both parties reached an accord to execute distinct projects aimed at fortifying trade and economic collaboration between the two nations.

These initiatives encompass the creation of collaborative industrial ventures and the provision of Azeri Light crude oil from Azerbaijan to cater to the requirements of the oil refinery within the Dangara Special Economic Zone, fostering subsequent petroleum product production in Tajikistan.

Meanwhile, the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Tajikistan over the first 7 months of 2023 reached over $2.3 million, which is 0.06 percent of the total Azerbaijani foreign trade turnover with the CIS countries. In 2022, the bilateral trade volume amounted to $5.8 million. While these numbers may not seem high, both parties have made notable strides in bolstering their cooperation in recent years.

Taking a cue from its neighbors, Tajikistan has the potential to leverage the distinct business opportunities currently available in Azerbaijan. The robust and enduring relationships with Central Asian nations are the outcome of President Ilham Aliyev's forward-thinking policies. As we look ahead, Azerbaijan has solidified its connections with this region, and, in collaboration with its partners, is actively advancing the region's development for the mutual benefit of all stakeholders.
HOUSTON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Nabors Energy Transition Corp. (NYSE: NETC) ("NETC" or the "Company") announced that its board of directors has elected to extend the date by which NETC has to consummate a business combination by one additional month from September 18, 2023 to October 18, 2023 (the "Extension"), as permitted under NETC's second amended and restated certificate of incorporation. The Extension provides NETC with additional time to complete its previously announced initial business combination (the "Business Combination") with Vast Solar Pty Ltd ("Vast").

In connection with the Extension, Nabors Lux 2 S.a.r.l. ("Nabors Lux"), an affiliate of Nabors Energy Transition Sponsor LLC (the "Sponsor"), has deposited $295,519.23 (the "Extension Payment") into NETC's trust account for its public stockholders (the "Trust Account"), which enables NETC to effectuate the Extension. Nabors Lux loaned the Extension Payment to NETC through a non-interest-bearing loan. If NETC consummates an initial business combination, it will repay the loans out of the proceeds of the Trust Account or, at the option of the Sponsor, convert all or a portion of the loans into warrants for $1.00 per warrant, which warrants will be identical to the warrants issued by NETC in a private placement in connection with NETC's initial public offering. If NETC does not consummate an initial business combination, it will repay the loans only from funds held outside of the Trust Account.

About Nabors Energy Transition Corp.

NETC is a blank check company formed to effect a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company focused its search for a target business on companies that identify solutions, opportunities or technologies that focus on advancing the energy transition; specifically, companies that facilitate, improve or complement the reduction of carbon or greenhouse gas emissions while satisfying growing energy consumption across markets globally.

Important Information for Stockholders

This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or constitute a solicitation of any vote or approval.

In connection with the proposed Business Combination, Vast has filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") a registration statement on Form F-4 (File No. 333-272058) (the "Registration Statement"), which includes (i) a preliminary prospectus of Vast relating to the offer of securities to be issued in connection with the proposed Business Combination and (ii) a preliminary proxy statement of NETC to be distributed to holders of NETC's capital stock in connection with NETC's solicitation of proxies for a vote by NETC's stockholders with respect to the proposed Business Combination and other matters described in the Registration Statement. NETC and Vast also have filed and plan to file other documents with the SEC regarding the proposed Business Combination. After the Registration Statement has been declared effective by the SEC, a definitive proxy statement/prospectus will be mailed to the stockholders of NETC. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF NETC AND VAST ARE URGED TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT, THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS CONTAINED THEREIN (INCLUDING ALL AMENDMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND ALL OTHER DOCUMENTS RELATING TO THE PROPOSED BUSINESS COMBINATION THAT HAVE BEEN OR WILL BE FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED BUSINESS COMBINATION.

Investors and security holders are able to obtain free copies of the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents containing important information about NETC and Vast once such documents are filed with the SEC, through the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov. In addition, the documents filed by NETC may be obtained free of charge from NETC's website at www.nabors-etcorp.com or by written request to NETC at 515 West Greens Road, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77067.

Participants in the Solicitation

NETC, Nabors Industries Ltd., Vast and their respective directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the stockholders of NETC in connection with the proposed Business Combination. Information about the directors and executive officers of NETC is set forth in NETC's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, filed with the SEC on March 22, 2023. To the extent that holdings of NETC's securities have changed since the amounts printed in NETC's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, such changes have been or will be reflected on Statements of Change in Ownership on Form 4 filed with the SEC. Other information regarding the participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, are contained in the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant materials to be filed with the SEC when they become available. You may obtain free copies of these documents as described in the preceding paragraph.

Forward Looking Statements

The information included herein and in any oral statements made in connection herewith include "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. All statements, other than statements of present or historical fact included herein, regarding the proposed Business Combination, NETC's and Vast's ability to consummate the proposed Business Combination, the benefits of the proposed Business Combination and NETC's and Vast's future financial performance following the proposed Business Combination, as well as NETC's and Vast's strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs, prospects, plans and objectives of management are forward-looking statements. When used herein, including any oral statements made in connection herewith, the words "could," "should," "will," "may," "believe," "anticipate," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "project," the negative of such terms and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. These forward-looking statements are based on NETC and Vast management's current expectations and assumptions about future events and are based on currently available information as to the outcome and timing of future events. Except as otherwise required by applicable law, NETC and Vast disclaim any duty to update any forward-looking statements, all of which are expressly qualified by the statements in this section, to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. NETC and Vast caution you that these forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the control of NETC and Vast. These risks include, but are not limited to, general economic, financial, legal, political and business conditions and changes in domestic and foreign markets; the inability of the parties to complete the Business Combination or the convertible debt and equity financings contemplated in connection with the proposed Business Combination (the "Financing") in a timely manner or at all (including due to the failure to receive required stockholder or shareholder, as applicable, approvals, or the failure of other closing conditions such as the satisfaction of the minimum trust account amount following redemptions by NETC's public stockholders and the receipt of certain governmental and regulatory approvals), which may adversely affect the price of NETC's securities; the inability of the Business Combination to be completed by NETC's business combination deadline and the potential failure to obtain an extension of the business combination deadline if sought by NETC; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the Business Combination or the Financing; the inability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the proposed Business Combination; the inability to obtain or maintain the listing of Vast's shares on a national exchange following the consummation of the proposed Business Combination; costs related to the proposed Business Combination; the risk that the proposed Business Combination disrupts current plans and operations of Vast, business relationships of Vast or Vast's business generally as a result of the announcement and consummation of the proposed Business Combination; Vast's ability to manage growth; Vast's ability to execute its business plan, including the completion of the Port Augusta project, at all or in a timely manner and meet its projections; potential disruption in Vast's employee retention as a result of the proposed Business Combination; potential litigation, governmental or regulatory proceedings, investigations or inquiries involving Vast or NETC, including in relation to the proposed Business Combination; changes in applicable laws or regulations and general economic and market conditions impacting demand for Vast's products and services. Additional risks will be set forth in the section titled "Risk Factors" in the proxy statement/prospectus that will be filed with the SEC in connection with the proposed Business Combination. Should one or more of the risks or uncertainties described herein and in any oral statements made in connection therewith occur, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and plans could differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Additional information concerning these and other factors that may impact NETC's expectations can be found in NETC's periodic filings with the SEC, including NETC's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 22, 2023 and any subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. NETC's SEC filings are available publicly on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

Investor Relations Contact

William C. Conroy

[email protected]

SOURCE Nabors Energy Transition Corp.
WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD), the authority on boardroom practices representing more than 23,000 board members, today announced the honorees of the 2023 NACD Directorship 100, an annual recognition of the leading corporate directors, corporate governance experts, policymakers, and influencers who significantly impact boardroom practices and performance.

"Exemplifying board leadership is a top priority for our organization, and this year's peer-nominated Directorship 100 honorees demonstrate their excellence in governance," says NACD president and CEO Peter Gleason. "The accomplishments and integrity of this year's director honorees are inspiring, and we look forward to celebrating these individuals at our annual gala in New York."

The B. Kenneth West Lifetime Achievement Award is bestowed annually upon a director who demonstrates exceptional achievements throughout the full scope of their board careerincluding dedication to the improvement of corporate governance practicesand excellent leadership.

Public Company Director of the Year, Private Company Director of the Year, and Nonprofit Director of the Year are awarded for outstanding recent achievements in public, private, and nonprofit board service. These awardees exemplify NACD's principles of director professionalism: integrity, mature confidence, informed judgment, and high-performance standards.

2023 Honorees:

NACD 2023 B . Kenneth West Lifetime Achievement Award: Peter C. Browning

ScanSource Inc., GMS Inc. Historic: Equilar Inc., Acuity Brands Inc., Nucor Corp., Enpro Industries Inc., Lowe's COS Inc., Phoenix Companies Inc., Nassau Life Insurance Company, Wachovia Corp., Sykes Enterprises Inc., National Service Industries Inc., First Union Corp, Henkel Loctite Corp., CCL Industries Inc., Eldorado Stone Inc., First Union National Bank of South Carolina, Industrial Microwave Systems Inc., Pelician Co. Inc.

NACD 2023 Directorship 100 Directors of the Year:

Public Company Director: Anne Schaumburg , NRG Energy Inc., Brookfield Infrastructure Partners LP, Brookfield Reinsurance Ltd., American National Group Inc.

, NRG Energy Inc., Brookfield Infrastructure Partners LP, Brookfield Reinsurance Ltd., American National Group Inc. Private Company Director: Renee Hornbaker , Berry Corp., Ausenco Ltd., Global Advanced Metals Pty Ltd., CLEAResults Consulting Inc., Stream Gas & Electric Ltd., Freeman Company LLC, Eastman Chemical Co.

, Berry Corp., Ausenco Ltd., Global Advanced Metals Pty Ltd., CLEAResults Consulting Inc., Stream Gas & Electric Ltd., Freeman Company LLC, Eastman Chemical Co. Nonprofit Director: Byron C. Scott , Accuray Inc., Direct Relief, Rady Children's

Hospital San Diego, Providence Health Plan

The 2023 Directorship 100 list of honorees includes peer-nominated leading directors and governance professionals. Visit the 2023 NACD Directorship 100 Honorees page to view the full listing.

Honorees will be recognized at the 2023 NACD Directorship 100 Awards Gala, a black-tie event being held on December 13 at Gotham Hall in New York City. They also will be highlighted in NACD Directorship magazine's annual list of the Most Influential People in Boardrooms and Corporate Governance.

About NACD

The National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) is the premier membership organization for board directors who want to expand their knowledge, grow their network, and maximize their potential.

As the unmatched authority in corporate governance, NACD sets the standards of excellence through its research and community-driven director education, programming, and publications. Directors trust NACD to arm them with the relevant insights to make high-quality decisions on the most pressing and strategic issues facing their businesses today.

NACD also prepares leaders to meet tomorrow's biggest challenges. The NACD Directorship Certification is the leading director credential in the United States. It sets a new standard for director education, positions directors to meet boardroom challenges, and includes an ongoing education requirement that prepares directors for what is next.

With an ever-expanding community of more than 23,000 members and a nationwide chapter network, our impact is both local and global. NACD members are driven by a common purpose: to be trusted catalysts of economic opportunity and positive changein business and in the communities we serve.

Press Contacts

Shannon Bernauer

[email protected]

(571) 367-3688

SOURCE National Association of Corporate Directors
This partnership is the latest step forward in Diverzify's mission to unify the once fragmented industry nationally, allowing the company to better serve its expansive customer base.

ATLANTA, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Diverzify, the nation's leading commercial flooring and interior services provider, is proud to announce its strategic acquisition of Arizona-based Wholesale Floors, LLC. This latest expansion of the Diverzify network of brands reinforces the company's commitment to delivering exceptional commercial flooring and interior surfaces solutions to clients across the United States.

With more than 2,500 employees and a robust presence in almost every major market in the US, Diverzify is continually working to redefine the fragmented commercial flooring and interior services landscape. Through its innovative approach, the company has united top industry leaders, like Wholesale Floors, under one network, setting new standards of quality and excellence in the industry.

Wholesale Floors is the latest strategic partner to join Diverzify's growing network of commercial flooring brands. Post this

Known for its nearly 45 years of experience and its status as the largest commercial flooring company in Arizona, Wholesale Floors specializes in delivering comprehensive flooring solutions to institutional and corporate clients. With a track record of excellence, responsiveness, and innovation, Wholesale Floors has earned a reputation as a preferred distributor of top flooring brands and as being one of the most knowledgeable and professional flooring contractors in North America.

Diverzify CEO, Jordan Zmijewski, expressed great enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "Further solidifying Diverzify's presence in the Arizona and West Coast markets aligns perfectly with our mission to provide our customers with seamless flooring solutions on every project, large or small, no matter where they are in the country. We strive to be our customers' go-to flooring and interiors experts. Wholesale Floors' focus on the healthcare and education sectors, as well as its unique experience with polished concrete, complements our established experience across many diverse industries, as well as our growing specialized services offerings."

The merger of these two businesses is poised to bring together the expertise, resources, and industry knowledge of both Diverzify and Wholesale Floors, resulting in an even stronger force in the commercial flooring and interior services sector.

"Wholesale Floors is extremely excited to be joining the Diverzify network and looks forward to contributing to the overall growth this will bring to the commercial flooring industry," added Wholesale Floors CEO, Josh Sugidono.

As Diverzify continues its growth journey, this acquisition reaffirms the company's commitment to delivering unparalleled quality and service to clients nationwide. This partnership stands as another noteworthy milestone in Diverzify's growth journey, marked most recently by the joining of surface care experts, The APEX Group, to the network earlier this summer.

ABOUT DIVERZIFY

Diverzify is the largest commercial flooring and interior services provider in the country with approximately 2,500+ employees and a network of 7,500+ installers in almost every major market in the US. The first-of-its-kind enterprise has revolutionized the historically fragmented industry. Diverzify has built a network of brands that allows the enterprise to unify the optimal experts, services, and resources for every project, every time. By blending traditional craftsman service quality with advanced technologies and specialized training, Diverzify is establishing new measures of service and success for the industry.

Diverzify's family of brands includes:

APEX Group

CCS Floors

Collaborative Turnkey Solutions (CTS)

DiverzifyPro

Epoxy S.I.

Floors by Beckers

Flooring Solutions

Kenny Floor Covering

Kiefer USA

Pavilion Floors

ProSpectra

RD Weis Companies

ReSource

Select Prefab Solutions (SPS)

Spectra Contract Flooring

Wholesale Floors

For more information about Diverzify, visit www.diverzify.com

ABOUT WHOLESALE FLOORS

Founded in 1979, Wholesale Floors, LLC (WF) began operating as a regional service provider and distributor of commercial flooring in the Phoenix Arizona market providing design and installation services for both institutional and corporate clients.

Since 1992, Wholesale Floors has grown organically from a small distributor and installation contractor to a full-service design and installation company. Through a company culture created and based upon client responsiveness and a commitment to excellence, Wholesale Floors has become the largest flooring company in the State of Arizona and is consistently ranked as one of the top ten commercial flooring contractors in the U.S. by both Floorcovering Weekly and Floor Focus Magazines with annual sales volume exceeding 50 million dollars.

For more information about Wholesale Floors, visit www.wholesalefloors.com

SOURCE Diverzify
Partnership between The Appalachian Mountain Club and The Conservation Fund significantly expands the nation's most important multi-use recreation and land conservation project

GREENVILLE, Maine , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC), America's oldest conservation and recreation organization, partnered with The Conservation Fund, America's leading nonprofit in land protection, to purchase and permanently protect nearly 29,000 acres of forestland in Piscataquis County, Maine, known as Barnard Forest.

The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC), America's oldest conservation and recreation organization, partnered with The Conservation Fund, Americas leading nonprofit in land protection, to purchase and permanently protect nearly 29,000 acres of forestland in Piscataquis County, Maine, known as Barnard Forest.

This is the second time in recent years that the two nonprofit organizations have partnered to increase the land protected through the Appalachian Mountain Club's Maine Woods Initiative (MWI), the most important multi-use recreation and land conservation project in the United States today.

"The acquisition of Barnard Forest expands AMC's working model of our holistic approach to land management," says Nicole Zussman, president and CEO of the Appalachian Mountain Club. "Public recreation, habitat restoration and responsible forestry can  and should  work together to create healthy and resilient ecosystems. We are deeply grateful to our partners at The Conservation Fund and The Malone Family Land Preservation Foundation for purchasing this land and holding it in reserve until the Appalachian Mountain Club can raise the funds to acquire it and bring it under our permanent protection."

Working together, the two nonprofits purchased the 28,873-acre property, which abuts AMC's current Maine Woods Initiative property, from Elliotsville Foundation for $15.2 million. AMC purchased the northern half of the property outright; The Conservation Fund and The Malone Family Land Preservation Foundation purchased the southern portion of the property, giving AMC and The Conservation Fund time to raise the funds needed for AMC to assume full ownership. Initial funding for this project includes support from the Richard King Mellon Foundation, the EJK Foundation, and private donors.

"The Barnard Forest addition is an outstanding example of creating opportunities for public recreation, forest restoration, and sea-run fish passage at a landscape-scale. The benefits to people, the economy, and the climate of the combined conserved lands are unparalleled in the northern forest of New England," said Tom Duffus, vice president and Northeast representative for The Conservation Fund in Maine. "Permanent funding for this project will be critical to its success."

Since 2003, AMC's Maine Woods Initiative has permanently protected over 100,000 contiguous acres of forest and fish habitat in Maine's famed 100-Mile Wilderness  more than twice the size of Acadia National Park. When AMC raises the funds necessary to permanently conserve the Barnard Forest, the land under the Maine Woods Initiative's protection will total nearly 130,000 contiguous acres.

As part of its ongoing partnership with The Conservation Fund, AMC finalized the purchase of the adjacent, nearly 27,000-acre Pleasant River Headwaters Forest for $18.5 million in 2022.

The Conservation Fund made both purchases possible by leveraging its Working Forest Fund program, which uses bridge capital to protect large ecologically and economically important forestland from subdivision and fragmentation, allowing time for permanent conservation solutions to be implemented.

"We are thrilled to be working with The Conservation Fund and all of our local partners and supporters to permanently conserve and reopen the Barnard Forest for forestry, for fish, and for people," said Steve Tatko, AMC Vice President of Conservation Research and Land Management and area native. "This crucial addition to the MWI landscape will allow us to protect from development one of the most significant forested regions of the eastern U.S. We are encouraged to take on this project through the skill of our local partners and contractors who have become leaders in their field for forestry and conservation work right here in Piscataquis County."

Through its ownership of the Barnard Forest, AMC will bring its fish habitat restoration efforts that benefit threatened species such as native brook trout and endangered Atlantic salmon to waterways farther south within the West branch of the Pleasant River and to the greater Penobscot River drainage. That work has reopened 110 miles of stream habitat by removing over 100 culverts and restoring natural stream channels, conducting woody debris additions to rebuild in-stream structure, and supporting Atlantic salmon egg planting. In addition, AMC intends to restore public access for recreation for the first time in nearly 20 years.

To learn more about the Maine Woods Initiative, or to support it directly, visit outdoors.org/MaineWoodsInitiative.

About the Appalachian Mountain Club

The Appalachian Mountain Club is the nation's oldest conservation and recreation organization, committed to fostering the protection, enjoyment, and understanding of the outdoors. Since 1876, AMC staff, members, and volunteers have encouraged generations to deepen their passion for the outdoors and helped protect some of the most precious natural environments in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. Learn more at outdoors.org.

About The Conservation Fund

The Conservation Fund protects the land that sustains us all. We are in the business of conservation, creating innovative solutions that drive nature-based action in all 50 states for climate protection, vibrant communities and sustainable economies. We apply effective strategies, efficient financing approaches, and enduring government, community and private partnerships to protect millions of acres of America's natural land, cultural sites, recreation areas and working forests and farms. To learn more, visit www.conservationfund.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Pamela Brown

Appalachian Mountain Club

[email protected]

203-848-5015













Josh Lynsen

The Conservation Fund

[email protected]

703-908-5809

SOURCE Appalachian Mountain Club
Featuring 110 tradable DeFi tokens and a fresh new look in version 3.7, the Telcoin App offers a viable alternative to centralized crypto exchanges.

SINGAPORE, Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Telcoin, a decentralized financial technology platform putting blockchain-powered mobile financial services at consumers' fingertips worldwide, has vastly expanded digital asset availability to users, adding the ability to store, send, and trade (where available) an additional 82 cryptocurrencies. The total number of DeFi assets available on the app is now 110. The Telcoin App offers an easy and intuitive way to trade tokens across DeFi protocols native to the Polygon Network, an Ethereum layer-two scaling solution that offers faster and more affordable trades than the Ethereum mainnet.

Telcoin adds 82 new DeFi tokens to its app, along with a fresh new UI/UX with Market View - rolling out in the version 3.7 update.

In addition to greatly increasing token availability, a new Telcoin App update brings a number of user experience and user interface improvements that will become the foundation for future releases. Market View makes its highly anticipated debut in version 3.7, and features live price updates for all digital assets available in the Telcoin App. It can be accessed from the brand new bottom navigation bar, which enables users to quickly tap between Wallet, Trade, Market View, and Account screens. Also, on the Wallet screen, tapping the top right corner of your card flips it, revealing your personal wallet address and Deposit QR code. This code can be used to easily deposit tokens from external accounts into your Telcoin App.

New tokens are available in the app today, and version 3.7's UI/UX upgrades will be rolling out in a phased manner - starting with Android devices and extending to iOS shortly.

"We're excited to offer an improved trading experience and support a lot more assets in the Telcoin App, and continue to grow as a legitimate alternative to centralized exchanges and the myriad issues plaguing a number of them over the past year," says Paul Neuner, Telcoin CEO. "Our emphasis on DeFi, our assisted self custody model, and our strong focus on compliance in every market where we operate has put us in an excellent position to capture users fleeing uncertainty to a safer, more trusted platform."

Currently, Telcoin users in the United States can deposit USDC into the Telcoin App with a debit card, with bank deposits and withdrawals planned to return soon. Users in France, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, and Sweden can deposit USDC into the Telcoin app with a debit card or bank account, and withdraw Euros via SEPA transfer. On and off ramps are set to extend to the rest of the European Union and beyond soon.

Beyond securely storing and trading digital assets, the Telcoin App also offers best-in-class digital fiat remittances to mobile money platforms across the globe. Telcoin Group is headquartered in Singapore where its operating entity is licensed as a Major Payment Institution. The Group's subsidiaries are also registered as money services businesses in the United States, Canada, and Australia. Telcoin Europe UAB, based in Lithuania, is registered as a digital asset exchange provider in the EU. In the United States, Telcoin notably supported the Nebraska Financial Innovation Act to create digital asset depository institutions for state-chartered banks, which was signed into law in May 2021.

iOS download: https://apple.co/3QAsM8W

Android download: https://bit.ly/3tWqmYv



Website: https://www.telco.in/

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/telcoin

SOURCE Telcoin Pte. Ltd.
NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- New benchmarking research from Corporate Insight identifies Fidelity, Empower, TIAA and T. Rowe Price as the top performers across desktop and mobile defined contribution (DC) plan participant experiences. The 2023 DC Plan Participant Website and Mobile Experience Benchmark reports evaluate 18 leading recordkeepers across 230 desktop and mobile attributes, showing how firms stack up against one another in design, functionality and usability. The reports found that users across platforms put an especially high value on easy access to account information, and that desktop capabilities continue to outpace those available on mobile apps.

"Fidelity's design, navigation and account information across digital platforms place it #1 in both these reports," says Kara Sostar, Retirement Research Manager at Corporate Insight. "In terms of the other top finishers, TIAA is the leader in website transaction capabilities, Empower has the best account information across both website and mobile platforms, and T. Rowe Price has the easiest app to navigate."

While leaders in the individual categories correlate closely with the overall leaders, several other firms were noteworthy category-level standouts:

In the Website Experience Benchmark, American Funds PlanPremier ranked second in Account Information, Principal earned third place in Transactions, and Corebridge Financial and Voya tied for third in Profile & Settings

In the Mobile Experience Benchmark, AmericanFunds PlanPremier ranked in the top three for Account Information and Transactions, Merrill scored in the top three for Design & Navigation and Transactions, and Principal earned top three finishes in Transactions and Support

Other takeaways from the reports include:

Plan participants want intuitive access to their account balancerespondents ranked "account balance information" and "ease of finding information" as the two most important capabilities in both desktop and mobile

Recordkeeper scores reflect a focus on account information; the highest average category score came in Account Information, while the lowest were in Profile & Settings and Support

Fidelity, TIAA and Empower finished first, second and third in desktop; in mobile, Fidelity, Empower and T. Rowe Price finished first, second and third

Categories analyzed in the DC Plan Participant Experience Benchmark reports include:

Account Information

Design & Navigation

Planning & Research

Profile & Settings

Support

Transactions

Recordkeepers featured include:

Alight Solutions

American Funds PlanPremier

CUNA Mutual Group

Charles Schwab

Corebridge Financial

Empower

Equitable

Fidelity

John Hancock

Lincoln Financial Group

Merrill

Nationwide

Principal

T. Rowe Price

TIAA

Transamerica Retirement Solutions

Vanguard

Voya Financial

About Corporate Insight

Corporate Insight (CI) delivers competitive intelligence, user experience research and consulting services to the nation's leading financial services, insurance and healthcare institutions. As the recognized industry leader in customer experience research for over 30 years, we have been the trusted partner to corporations seeking to improve their digital capabilities and user experience. Our best-in-class research platform and unique approach of analyzing the actual customer experience helps corporations advance their competitive position in the marketplace.

For media inquiries or to schedule an interview with an analyst, contact:

Patrick Flood

646-876-7535

[email protected]

SOURCE Corporate Insight
Steven Fouse Brings Deep Experience in Missouri's Educational Landscape and Systems to Support Student Advising

SPRINGFIELD, Mo., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- rootEd Missouri, a statewide initiative designed to boost outcomes for students in rural communities by placing dedicated advisors in rural high schools to provide students with college and career planning support, today announced Steven Fouse will serve as its first executive director and will guide the next chapter of the successful initiative.

Fouse brings to rootEd Missouri more than 15 years of experience and leadership in public service, customer service, and education. Fouse joins rootEd Missouri from Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC), where he most recently served as College Director of Student Success. Fouse has worked OTC for over eight years in a variety of student affairs roles, including academic advising and student development. Over the past five years, he led efforts to redesign academic advising for the college. This work resulted in a holistic redesign of student advising and support systems, which increased levels of student success and goal attainment.

rootEd Missouri is a partnership among national philanthropic organization rootEd Alliance, the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and OTC. rootEd Missouri has placed dedicated advisors, called rootEd advisors, in 135 high schoolsabout one-third of all rural high schoolsacross the state.

rootEd advisors, working alongside school counselors, help students explore career paths, identify and apply to best-fit post-high school optionswhether they enroll in college, seek career training, or enlist in the militaryand create a financial plan to ensure these options are within reach.

rootEd Missouri's Next Chapter

In his role as executive director, Fouse will lead all aspects of rootEd Missouri, as well as build a long-term vision and strategic plan for the initiative, including scaling it in partnership with key stakeholders.

The addition of the executive director position reflects the statewide initiative's successful track record and growth strategy. Participating schools across the state have seen impressive gains for students, according to the latest available data. Among the highlights:

rootEd Missouri schools' FAFSA completion rate reached 61%, compared to a statewide average of 48%

schools' FAFSA completion rate reached 61%, compared to a statewide average of 48% 98% of students in rootEd Missouri schools have developed a post-high school plan with their rootEd advisor

schools have developed a post-high school plan with their rootEd advisor 70% of students have participated in job shadowing or industry tours

"We're thrilled to welcome Steven as the first executive director of rootEd Missouri," said Noa Meyer, president of rootEd Alliance. "Steven's entrepreneurial spirit, deep leadership experience, and knowledge of Missouri's education and career planning landscape will guide the next phase for rootEd Missouri, and will greatly benefit advisors and their students across the state."

"It has always been important to me to help set up students to graduate high school on a path to achieve career success and economic stability, especially those rural students who so often face additional barriers," Fouse said. "rootEd's advising model has proven to be a scalable solution with long-term effects, and I'm excited to continue to, with our rootEd advisors on the ground, serve these students, their communities, and in turn, our state as a whole."

About rootEd Alliance

Every student should graduate high school on a path to achieve career success and economic stability. rootEd Alliance places dedicated college and career advisors in rural high schools to work with all students to define and plan their futures, whether through a college degree, work-based learning, or military service. Launched in 2018 and now operating in Missouri, Texas, and Idaho, 183 rootEd advisors have served 30,000 students at 189 high schools. This approach is working: in the 2022 school year, rootEd schools saw a 13% increase in postsecondary enrollment, while national enrollment rates remained flat over the same time period. rootEd Alliance is made possible by a group of philanthropists and family and founder-led businesses, convened by BDT & MSD Partners. For more information, please visit: https://rootEdAlliance.org.

Sydni Dunn

[email protected]

SOURCE rootEd Alliance
New global study reflects responses from over 1,000 senior banking leaders and more than 12,000 consumers regarding their priorities and identifies significant disconnects

70% of banking executives indicate that embedded finance is either core or complementary to their business strategy, yet only 20% currently offer embedded finance solutions

Ecosystem privacy and security challenges cited as top two barriers to innovation

ARMONK, N.Y. and FRANKFURT, Germany, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The IBM (NYSE: IBM) Institute for Business Value (IBV), in collaboration with the Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN) and Red Hat, today released findings from a new global study that reveals significant gaps between the stated priorities of surveyed banking executives and the customers they serve. The research examines how customers engage with the digital world and how banks invest in embedded finance to become part of the financial journey consumers experience on their platforms of choice.

Embedded Finance: Creating the Everywhere, Everyday Bank details findings from the responses of over 1,000 banking industry leaders and more than 12,000 consumers across five continents.

Embedded finance is the integration of financial products and solutions within the customer journey of non-financial services organizations in ways that help eliminate friction, and consequently, enrich the customer experience. Over 70% of the industry executives surveyed indicate that embedded finance is either core or complementary to their business strategies. Yet only 20% said they currently offer embedded finance solutions.

"Banks are facing a double whammy of challenges with pressure coming from non-traditional competitors such as the big techfins that have set new standards for customer expectations and are eager to deepen those relationships and from regulators pushing for open banking standards to level the playing field and drive more competition," said Shanker Ramamurthy, Global Managing Partner Banking & Financial Markets, IBM Consulting. "Establishing a modern hybrid cloud architecture that enables easy access to data across the enterprise, the ability to leverage the potential of emerging technologies such as generative AI, and participation in a robust ecosystem of partners is paramount to a successful banking strategy in today's industry."

While 80% of all consumers surveyed currently prefer to deposit their salary and keep their savings in traditional banks, 16% of respondents globally are already comfortable embracing the full digital experience with branchless institutions. Many consumers are seeking a higher level of engagement from their financial institutions with 79% of younger respondents being open to receiving insights on their better ways to save and 75% being open to guidance on investing.

Both banking leaders and consumers cited security as their most important priorities but banking leaders overestimated the importance of peer-to-peer payments and buy now pay later (BNPL) compared to priorities cited by consumers who designated good customer experience as their second highest preference, followed by mobile wallet functionality and rewards respectively.

Based on the study, gaps in technology infrastructure modernization, lack of application programming interface (API) standards and the portion of resources devoted to privacy and security are slowing progress toward realizing the business opportunities associated with embedded finance platforms and stand to impede the potential of exponential technologies, such as generative AI.

"It has never been more critical for banks to focus on how financial institutions can increase their competitive edge and improve the experience they provide their customers. The findings from the research show just how much work banks have to do before they can achieve this," said Hans Tesselaar, Executive Director, BIAN. "We know from the work we're doing with our members, however, that before they implement real changes to their service offerings, they must first overcome the obstacles caused by a lack of technical standards and adopt a coreless banking approach to transformation. This will help the industry benefit from each and every technological development to create the bank of the future."

The full report is available to download here.

The IBM Institute for Business Value, IBM's thought leadership think tank, combines global research and performance data with expertise from industry thinkers and leading academics to deliver insights that make business leaders smarter. For more world-class thought leadership, visit: www.ibm.com/ibv

About IBM

IBM is a leading provider of enterprise AI, hybrid cloud architecture, security and ESG insights to the global financial services sector. Its deep industry expertise, extensive portfolio of services and solutions, and its robust ecosystem of fintech partners, empower collaboration, innovation, and creation with clients. As a trusted partner to banks, insurers, capital markets and payments providers, IBM guides financial institutions on all stages of their digital transformation journeys through IBM Consulting and delivers the proven infrastructure, software and services they need through IBM Technology. For more information, visit www.ibm.com/industries/financial-services.

About BIAN

Established in 2008, the Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN) is an independent, member-owned, not-for-profit association, designed to build and promote a common architectural framework for banking interoperability issues. BIANs goal is to define operability and "ready to use" definitions for IT services in the banking industry.

The community of over 80 members focuses on creating a standard banking services landscape while ensuring consistent service definitions, levels of detail and boundaries. This will help banks to achieve a reduction of integration costs and take advantage of a micro services architecture.

Financial institutions, software vendors, consultancies and system integrators, along with technology partners, are invited to join the association and play a collaborative role with other industry leaders in defining, building and implementing next-generation banking platforms.

Media Contacts

IBM

Mary Ellen Higgins

[email protected]

781.789.1911

BIAN

Olivia Rashid, Hotwire

[email protected]

020 8875 4450

SOURCE IBM
Brings broad experience in trial and appellate courts

NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Eric S. Aronson, a widely respected trial lawyer with broad experience in trial and appellate courts across the nation, has joined Crowell & Moring as a partner in the firm's Litigation Group in New York.

Eric Aronson, Crowell & Moring LLP

Aronson brings nearly three decades of experience litigating cases in federal and state courts, handling domestic and international arbitrations, and arguing appeals in numerous U.S. Circuit Courts. He handles a wide variety of litigation and routinely acts for companies in areas including general commercial and contractual disputes, real estate, insurance, health care and environmental disputes. His clients include financial institutions, closely held corporations, consumer product companies, technology firms, real estate brokers, investors, operators and developers, and various private equity groups and their portfolio companies.

"Eric is a very experienced big-case trial lawyer who will strengthen our existing commercial litigation bench," said Keith Harrison, co-chair of Crowell's Litigation Group. "His ability to solve problems for clients, combined with his collaborative and entrepreneurial spirit, will be invaluable to our rapidly expanding litigation practice."

Aronson joins Crowell from Stroock & Stroock & Lavan LLP. His arrival continues the growth of Crowell's New York office, which recently welcomed a three-person intellectual property team led by top IP litigator Paul Keller. Under the leadership of Glen McGorty, the New York office has nearly doubled in size over the past five years.

"We are delighted to welcome Eric to our team," said McGorty, managing partner of Crowell's New York office. "His impressive background, longstanding relationships, and proven track record of handling a wide range of litigation matters will be a terrific addition not only to our litigation bench, but to the overall office as we continue to drive growth in New York."

Aronson earned his law degree from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, Yeshiva University, and his undergraduate degree from Rutgers College. He serves on the governing board of America Needs You, a nonprofit organization that provides transformative mentorship and intensive career development for first-generation college students.

"The driving energy of any enterprise is people, and I am thrilled to join Crowell's collaborative and collegial team," Aronson said. "I look forward to helping drive the firm's growth, especially in New York, and harness the firm's platform to provide top-notch client service."

About Crowell & Moring LLP

Crowell & Moring is an international law firm with operations in the United States, Europe, MENA, and Asia. Drawing on significant government, business, industry and legal experience, the firm helps clients capitalize on opportunities and provides creative solutions to complex litigation and arbitration, regulatory and policy, and corporate and transactional issues. The firm is consistently recognized for its commitment to pro bono service as well as its programs and initiatives to advance diversity, equity and inclusion.

Media Contact:

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Crowell & Moring LLP
MCLEAN, Va., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CIBT is proud to announce the opening of new offices in Bogota, Colombia and Brussels, Belgium operated by its wholly-owned Newland Chase subsidiary. Newland Chase is a global leader in corporate immigration services. The opening of its new Bogota office is part of a plan to expand the company's reach into the important and growing Latin America (LATAM) region, while the Brussels office builds on Newland Chase's European presence.

Operation of the Bogota office will be overseen by Diana Monsalve, who was recently named the director of Newland Chase's practice in Colombia. Diana is a Colombian attorney holding a degree in employment law from the Universidad del Rosario in Bogota, Colombia, as well as a master's degree in international business law from York University in Toronto, Canada. She has over 15 years of experience working with some of the Big Four consulting firms and leading the immigration practice of a top-ranked Colombian law firm, where she provided immigration assistance to a variety of multinational clients.

"Opening this office in Bogota is an example of both the growth potential of Latin America for business, and Newland Chase's commitment to the region," said Diana.

The new office in Brussels will be led by Buidi Mundadi, Newland Chase's Manager in Belgium. In this role she will oversee all Belgian casework and will advise clients on all matters related to inbound immigration to Belgium. Buidi brings over 14 years of experience to the role of Manager, having worked previously for the Big Four and several leading relocation management companies. She has worked with clients of all sizes from large multinationals to small independent firms, working both locally in Belgium as well as internationally.

"It is an exciting opportunity," Buidi said, "to bring a high-level of personalized service to clients looking to enter and further their careers in Belgium."

Newland Chase and CIBT have more than 30 years of experience in creating flexible, compliant, and responsive visa and immigration solutions for many of the world's leading companies  from top multinational firms, to small start-ups. Newland Chase takes pride in engaging with clients, providing best-in-class global immigration and visa services, and creating bespoke solutions to meet each client's specific needs.

Steve Diehl, CIBT's Chief Corporate Development and Emerging Markets Officer, said of the new offices: "Our immigration teams in Belgium and Colombia are poised to support clients with business interests in these two important markets. Expanding our global footprint aligns with our vision to simplify the journey, to bridge people, cultures, and businesses and open the world."

The new Colombia office joins Newland Chase's growing footprint in the LATAM region, which includes existing offices in Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina, while Belgium joins a list of CIBT/Newland Chase offices across Europe.

For more information please visit www.NewlandChase.com.

SOURCE CIBT
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. The EU mission in Armenia has informed about the relocation of construction of a metallurgical plant that was planned to be built on the border with Azerbaijan, Trend reports.

"In recent weeks, the EU observer mission has regularly patrolled the Yeraskh (Arazdeyan) area, inspecting and monitoring the dismantling of the metallurgical plant. With our presence we contributed to the safe and secure transportation of materials and equipment to the new location," the EU mission in Armenia wrote on X (Twitter).

However, this post later disappeared, and the mission representatives instead reported on "patrolling the Arazdeyan zone, including the metallurgical plant."

This is not the first time when EU representatives in Armenia try to retract their words. Once again, the European Union could not resist Armenian pressure for long and was forced to make this "remark", thus trying to maintain the relevance of the so-called patrol on the Azerbaijani-Armenian border.

Earlier, the Azerbaijani government demanded that Armenia suspend the construction of a large metallurgical plant bordering with Nakhchivan.

In addition, Azerbaijani environmentalists had earlier sent an open letter to Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, listing Armenia's enterprises that pollute the environment. The letter noted that the destruction of the ecosystem as a result of ongoing mining operations poses a threat not only to Armenia's environment, but also to neighboring countries, and called on Armenia to immediately stop the activities of the threatening enterprises.
The members of the Nomination Committee for AB Electrolux Annual General Meeting in 2024 have now been appointed.

STOCKHOLM, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In accordance with decision by the Annual General Meeting, AB Electrolux Nomination Committee shall consist of six members. The Nomination Committee shall include members selected by each of the four largest shareholders in terms of voting rights that wish to participate in the committee, together with the Chairman of the AB Electrolux Board and one additional Board member.

The members of the Nomination Committee have now been appointed based on the ownership structure as of August 31, 2023. Johan Forssell, Investor AB, is the Chairman of the committee. The other members are Marianne Nilsson, Swedbank Robur Funds, Carina Silberg, Alecta, and Anders Hansson, AMF Tjanstepension och Fonder. The committee will also include Staffan Bohman and Fredrik Persson, Chairman and Director, respectively, of AB Electrolux.

The Nomination Committee will prepare proposals for the Annual General Meeting in 2024 regarding Chairman of the Annual General Meeting, Board members, Chairman of the Board, remuneration for Board members, Auditor, Auditor's fees and, to the extent deemed necessary, proposal regarding amendments of the current instruction for the Nomination Committee.

The Annual General Meeting will be held on March 27, 2024, in Stockholm, Sweden.

Shareholders who wish to submit proposals to the Nomination Committee should send an email to [email protected].

CONTACT:

For more information:

Sophie Arnius, Investor Relations, +46 70 590 80 72

Electrolux Group Press Hotline, +46 8 657 65 07

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/1853/3834627/2293387.pdf Press release Nomination Committee 2024

SOURCE Electrolux Group
With this development, doctors can streamline daily workflow and achieve customized bracket positioning by leveraging Damon Ultima brackets and the Spark Approver Software. Ormco Digital Bonding makes bracket bonding consistent. In addition, orthodontists can use their digital workflows for all patients and easily make choices across multiple treatment options in the software. Doctors will also have increased flexibility to treat patients with even more treatment modalities. This development comes just two months after the introduction of Spark Clear Aligners Release 14, which provided web-based access to the Spark Approver platform, among other benefits.

Key features of Ormco Digital Bonding include:

One case submission portal for Ormco Digital Bonding cases and Spark Clear Aligner cases

Digital treatment planning and digital bracket placement interface with Spark Approver Software provides one easy-to-use software platform for Ormco Digital Bonding cases and Spark Clear Aligner cases

Damon Ultima Brackets, the first true full-expression orthodontic system designed for faster and more precise finishing. It is completely re-engineered to virtually eliminate play for precise control of rotation, angulation and torque* 1

Ormco is uniquely positioned to provide doctors with the clinical freedom they want to treat patients their way. Now with Ormco Digital Bonding, Ormco has leveraged its premiere orthodontic solutions to provide orthodontists with even greater flexibility, more treatment options and an overall trouble-free workflow.

"Ormco has a consistent track record of clinically-focused orthodontic innovation and is dedicated to providing doctors with the tools and resources needed to achieve clinical excellence," said Eric Conley, President of Ormco. "Our latest example is Ormco Digital Bonding which combines the best of our orthodontic solutions in brackets and aligners. We're excited to provide doctors with yet another modality that increases clinical freedom and flexibility to grow their practices."

"Where precision and efficiency are paramount, Ormco Digital Bonding brings a unique approach to indirect bonding of orthodontic brackets utilizing the proven technology of the Spark Aligner Platform," said Dr. Michael Mayhew. "Integrating advanced digital treatment visualization, technicians mesh treatment plans and bracket selections to provide orthodontists with optimal setups. A unique printed jig system carrier design ensures precision bonding saving valuable chair time for bonding accuracy, predictably enhancing the patient's treatment journey."

Ormco Digital Bonding is now available in the US and will soon be available in Canada and Australia. To learn more about Ormco Digital Bonding and to Request a Demo, visit https://go-orm.co/odbdigitalbonding.

About the Spark Clear Aligner System

Spark Aligners are manufactured by Ormco, a global leader in innovative orthodontics products, with 60 years of expertise, R & D and high manufacturing standards. Ormco has helped doctors treat more than 20 million patients in more than 140 countries. Spark Approver software is designed to give doctors more control and flexibility, while Spark's advanced aligner technology and TruGEN material provide more sustained force retention and better surface contact with the tooth. The Spark Aligner is also designed to be clearer and more comfortable, and stains less than the leading aligner brand which may be why 100% of patients recently surveyed said they would recommend Spark Aligners to a friend.*

For more information about Spark Aligners, visit https://ormco.com/en-us/spark

About Ormco

Envista is a global family of more than 30 trusted dental brands, including Nobel Biocare, Ormco, DEXIS, and Kerr, united by a shared purpose: to partner with professionals to improve lives. Ormco, headquartered in Brea, Calif., is a global leader and innovator of orthodontic products and solutions to help enhance the lives of its customers and their patients. For 60 years, Ormco has partnered with the orthodontic community to help create over 20 million smiles in over 140 countries. Distinguished products range from twin brackets (Symetri Clear, Titanium Orthos and Mini Diamond) to pioneering self-ligating appliances with the Damon System (including the Damon Ultima System and Damon Clear2 Brackets). The Spark Clear Aligner System is designed to meet the needs of the orthodontist with the TruGEN material and Approver software. Ormco's Insignia Advanced Smile Design provides an all-inclusive customized indirect bonding solution for efficiency through personalization. From personalized service to professional education programs and marketing support, Ormco is committed to helping orthodontists achieve their clinical and practice management objectives. Connect on Facebook at www.facebook.com/myormco and LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/ormco .

* Data on file. 1 Wires not included.

SOURCE Ormco Corporation

 Modal title

PRN Top Stories Newsletters Sign up to get PRNs top stories and curated news delivered to your inbox weekly! Enter Your Email Select Country Select Country Submit Thank you for subscribing!



Our newsletters contain tracking pixels to help us deliver unique content based on each subscriber's engagement and interests. For more information on how we will use your data to ensure we send you relevant content please visit our By signing up you agree to receive content from us.Our newsletters contain tracking pixels to help us deliver unique content based on each subscriber's engagement and interests. For more information on how we will use your data to ensure we send you relevant content please visit our PRN Consumer Newsletter Privacy Notice . You can withdraw your consent at any time in the footer of every email you'll receive.



Unsere Newsletter enthalten Zahlpixel, die die Lieferung einzigartiger Inhalte in Bezug auf das Abonnement und die Interessen der einzelnen Abonnenten ermoglichen. Weitere Informationen uber die Verwendung Ihrer Daten im Hinblick auf die Zusendung von relevanten Inhalten, finden Sie in unserer Mit Ihrer Anmeldung erklaren Sie sich damit einverstanden, Inhalte von uns zu erhalten.Unsere Newsletter enthalten Zahlpixel, die die Lieferung einzigartiger Inhalte in Bezug auf das Abonnement und die Interessen der einzelnen Abonnenten ermoglichen. Weitere Informationen uber die Verwendung Ihrer Daten im Hinblick auf die Zusendung von relevanten Inhalten, finden Sie in unserer PRN Consumer Newsletter Privacy Notice . Ihre Zustimmung konnen Sie jederzeit in der Fuzeile jeder erhaltenen E-Mail widerrufen.



Notre newsletter contient des pixels espions nous permettant la fourniture a chaque abonne, dun contenu unique en lien avec ses souscriptions et interets. Pour de plus amples informations sur lutilisation faite de vos donnees en vue de lenvoi des contenus concernes, nous vous invitons a consulter la politique de confidentialite disponible a partir du lien suivant En vous inscrivant a la newsletter, vous consentez a la reception de contenus de notre part.Notre newsletter contient des pixels espions nous permettant la fourniture a chaque abonne, dun contenu unique en lien avec ses souscriptions et interets. Pour de plus amples informations sur lutilisation faite de vos donnees en vue de lenvoi des contenus concernes, nous vous invitons a consulter la politique de confidentialite disponible a partir du lien suivant PRN Consumer Newsletter Privacy Notice . Vous pouvez a tout moment revenir sur votre consentement par le biais des informations situees au bas de chaque e-mail recu.
PANGYO, South Korea, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Oscotec Inc. and ADEL Inc. announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared the investigational new drug (IND) application of ADEL-Y01 for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Oscotec and ADEL are jointly developing a novel disease-modifying immunotherapy agent (ADEL-Y01) targeting tau protein accumulation in the AD brain. ADEL-Y01 is a recombinant IgG1 class type monoclonal humanized antibody that recognizes and binds to tau protein acetylated at lysine-280 (acK280) thus inhibiting aggregation and propagation of tau seeds and enhancing microglial tau clearance. Administration of ADEL-Y01 has ameliorated memory impairment, behavioral deficits, and tau pathology in preclinical models, which was published early this year ("Monoclonal antibody Y01 prevents tauopathy progression induced by lysine 280-acetylated tau in cell and mouse models" in The Journal of Clinical Investigation)

This phase 1a/1b study is to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and clinical activity of ADEL-Y01 in healthy volunteers as well as in participants with Mild Cognitive Impairment due to Alzheimer's disease or mild Alzheimer's disease.

"We are convinced that ADEL-Y01 has the strong potential to be a much needed treatment option for patients with Alzheimer's disease based on its novel mechanism of action and the strength of preclinical data," said Dr. Taeyoung Yoon, CEO/CSO of Oscotec. "Initiating the first-in-human study of ADEL-Y01 is a significant milestone to the Oscotec-Adel partnership, which also serves as a vehicle for Oscotec in expanding its R&D horizon beyond small molecule."

"The IND clearance by the FDA represents a major achievement for us, especially in light of our first candidate entering into clinical trials," said Seung-Yong Yoon, M.D., CEO of ADEL. "We are enthusiastic about commencing the clinical trial, as it brings us closer to providing therapeutic solutions for the patients grappling with tauopathies including AD."

About Oscotec Inc.

Oscotec is a clinical stage drug discovery and development company pursuing translation of rigorous science into innovative medicine for clinically unmet needs.. The Company's clinical pipeline consists of targeted therapeutics in immunology and oncology. Oscotec is developing cevidoplenib (SYK inhibitor) for ITP (Phase 2, completed) and FLT3/AXL inhibitor for AML (Phase 1) as well as solid tumors (Phase 1). The company is also the originator of Lazertinib (LECLAZA), a 3rd generation EGFR inhibitor being developed by Janssen Pharma and Yuhan Corp. for lung cancers.

About ADEL Inc.

ADEL is a leading company of cutting-edge technologies for the treatment and diagnosis of neurological diseases including Alzheimer's disease. Founded by scientists who have investigated Alzheimer's disease at Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Korea, ADEL is developing smart, innovative drug candidates for the patients worldwide.

Contacts

Jihyun Park, IR/PR

[email protected]

June Hahn, BD

[email protected]

Kyung Hoon Hwang, Research Director/COO

[email protected]

SOURCE Oscotec Inc.
NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- OUTFRONT Media (NYSE:OUT), one of the largest out-of-home media (OOH) companies in the U.S., today announced a partnership with Lil' Libros, a literary-focused company founded by two Mexican American moms dedicated to creating bilingual children's books that celebrate dual identities. The campaign launches in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15.

OUTFRONT Media Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with "Pages of Hispanic Heritage" Campaign in Partnership with Lil' Libros

Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes and celebrates the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. OUTFRONT Media is taking a unique approach by spotlighting talented Lil' Libros authors on digitals billboards across the United States. These authors have made a significant impact by creating children's books that embrace cultural diversity and empower young readers to be proud of their heritage. The "Pages of Hispanic Heritage" campaign seeks to amplify their voices and showcase their inspiring work on a national scale. The timing of the campaign also coincides with back-to-school, further driving the relevancy and importance of young literacy.

The following Lil' Libros authors and illustrators will be featured:

Maria Rosana Mestre

Chogrin

Mariana Galvez

Melanie Romero

D Guzman

Marcela Valladolid

Citlali Reyes

Michelle Winters

Cris Winters

Heidi Moreno

Ellen Ochoa

Zaida Hernandez

Cynthia Gonzalez

Ellia Ana Hill

Cindy Montenegro

Juan Moreno

J de laVega

Jayri Gomez

Luis San Vicente

Victoria Roth

Nayeli Reyes

Patty Rodriguez

Ariana Stein

"We are thrilled to partner with Lil' Libros for this year's Hispanic Heritage Month campaign," said Christine Rose, West Region Senior Marketing Director & Co-Founder of OUTFRONT's 'UnidosFRONT' Employee Resource Group. "Their commitment to celebrating Hispanic heritage through children's literature aligns perfectly with our mission to connect communities and celebrate diversity through out of home advertising. We look forward to sharing the stories and creativity of these talented authors with audiences across the country."

Lil' Libros co-founders Patty Rodriguez and Ariana Stein expressed their excitement about the campaign, saying, "At Lil' Libros, we believe in the power of representation and storytelling. Partnering with OUTFRONT Media allows us to reach even more families, helping them embrace their dual identities and heritage. We hope these billboards inspire children and adults alike to take pride in their cultural backgrounds."

About OUTFRONT Media Inc.

OUTFRONT leverages the power of technology, location and creativity to connect brands with consumers outside of their homes through one of the largest and most diverse sets of billboard, transit, and mobile assets in North America. Through its technology platform, OUTFRONT will fundamentally change the ways advertisers engage audiences on-the-go.

OUTFRONT Media Contacts:

Don Ciaramella / Matt Biscuiti Courtney Richards The Lippin Group OUTFRONT Media 212-986-7080 646-876-9404 [email protected] [email protected]



Stephan Bisson

OUTFRONT Media

212-297-6573

[email protected]



SOURCE OUTFRONT Media Inc.
DUBLIN, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A very effective therapy can be rendered for pain, through the most modern methodologies, by Paingone Plus Tens Pen. It consists of a technology by which a low-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is provided to the area with pain.

As a result, mild electrical impulses generated from the tip of the device penetrate the skin and reach the nerves. Paingone Plus Tens Pen is a device that retrieves the required energy from the installed batteries. It is considered to be one of the safest alternatives in comparison to drugs that are known to provide pain relief. A good offer on Paingone Plus Tens Pen is available on the official website.

There are several advantages that a person suffering from pain can make use of if they purchase Paingone Plus Tens Pen. Apart from the fact that one can effectively reduce pain in various parts to a great extent, its compact design has made it easy for people to carry it. It has a pen-like structure wherein the stimulation is generated from the device's tip.

Moreover, since Paingone Plus Tens Pen can provide therapy directly to the required part, it is known to cure pain within less time. Paingone Plus Tens Pen is considered one of the best choices for pain relief as no side effects are caused, unlike in the case of a pain-relieving drug.

Paingone Plus Tens Pen is a device that cannot be used by everyone and in every condition. Certain factors have to be considered with prior importance while using the device to ensure the safety of the individual using it. Thus, a person with a pacemaker implantation, those suffering from heart disease or epilepsy, pregnant women as well as children, etc., should strictly avoid the use of this device due to safety concerns. Purchasing Paingone Plus Tens Pen is very simple; simply visit the firm's official website here.

Apart from that, although Paingone Plus Tens Pen is known to deliver on-site relief for various kinds of pain, there are certain parts of the body where it cannot be used. This includes parts such as the carotid nerves, muscles on the front and sides of the neck, heart, metal implants or devices implanted in the body, wounds that have not healed, etc.

All these safety precautions are to be strictly followed while using Paingone Plus Tens Pen to avoid danger.

Due to its effectiveness in treating pain and additional advantages offered, such as drug-free and cost-effective treatment of pain, Paingone Plus Tens Pen has become the best choice even for serious conditions that cause pain, such as arthritis, cervical spondylosis, joint pain, etc. Moreover, its ability to cure pain quickly is another factor that has made Paingone Plus Tens Pen one of the favorites in the list of pain-relieving tools. The ease with which it can be carried and its compact design has made Paingone Plus Tens Pen one of the most reliable devices to use in various conditions. In short, Paingone Plus Tens Pen is a one-stop solution to provide quick relief to everyone suffering from unbearable pains.

Paingone Plus Company Details:

Contact Person: Keith

Role: Head of Sales

Address: 1st Floor 9 Exchange Place, I.F.S.C. Dublin 1, Ireland, DO1X8H2

Postal code: DO1X8H2

City: Dublin

Country: Ireland

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +35319682522

Related Links: Paingone Plus Official Site

SOURCE Paingone Plus
DALLAS, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Palm Beach Tan , Inc., the nation's largest indoor tanning provider, is proud to announce a $105,000 donation to the Maui Relief Fund, thanks to the generous support of its customers, franchisees, and corporate team.

"I want to extend a heartfelt 'thank you' to all of those who joined us in this effort to help the people of Maui," said Diane Lucas, CEO of Palm Beach Tan. "This contribution is a testament to the generosity and compassion of our community, and I'm immensely proud of the support shown to those in need."

Palm Beach Tan held the fundraiser over Labor Day weekend, donating half of the profits from every Premier Collection product sold to the Maui Relief Fund.

The fund, established by the Hawaii Community Foundation, is playing a vital role in providing rapid response and recovery resources to those affected by the recent devastation in Maui.

"This island means so much to me personally and to our brand, and it's inspired so much of who we are today," Lucas added. "This initiative reflects our dedication to not only providing top-tier beauty and skincare products but also our strong sense of corporate responsibility towards the communities we know and love."

For more information about Palm Beach Tan, please visit www.palmbeachtan.com .

ABOUT PALM BEACH TAN:

Founded in 1990, Palm Beach Tan, Inc. is the leader in the indoor tanning industry, operating more than 650 locations nationwide, both corporate and franchise-owned, under the brands Palm Beach Tan and Planet Tan. The company has revolutionized the industry through innovative technology, products and services, as well as a commitment to the education of the brand's more than 3000 salon beauty consultants. Palm Beach Tan offers the convenience of rewards-based memberships and a full range of beauty services, including multiple levels of sunbeds, sunless spray tanning and skin care, and its proprietary line of premium tanning and skincare products, Premier Collection. For more information about Palm Beach Tan, Inc., please visit www.palmbeachtan.com .

SOURCE Palm Beach Tan
The ICX Elevate Awards recognize outstanding contributions in the field of customer experience and retail technology. The groundbreaking success of Parla Retail's 1-to-1 Live Commerce software was vividly demonstrated through its partnership with Nebraska Furniture Mart (NFM), a furniture and appliance superstore retail chain owned by Berkshire Hathaway. A NFM case study (https://events.parlaretail.com/nfm_part1_casestudy) documents the initial partnership and describes how Parla Retail was instrumental in elevating NFM's conversion rates up to 58%.

NFM has since initiated the second phase of its implementation and expanded the use of Parla Retail's software across all stores and extended the level of integration into its retail systems.

NFM's Rodney Rahl, explained, "1-to-1 Live selling helps us give customers, who can't easily access our stores, a way to understand and look at the details of something they'd like to purchase by connecting with our sales agents. It's really helping us drive sales and be more competitive."

Jim Schreitmueller, Head of Sales at Parla Retail, expressed his appreciation for the recognition, stating, "We're especially honored to receive the Elevate Award from the ICX Association. At Parla Retail, we're committed to helping online retailers and D2C brands create a virtual in-store experience, connecting salespeople with customers through live video to gives them the confidence to make purchase decisions. Our collaboration with NFM exemplifies the potential of how retailers across product categories are applying technology to transform the way they engage, sell and build relationships with customers."

Parla Retail's 1-to-1 Live Commerce software not only enables retailers to deliver personalized and interactive shopping experiences but also unlocks new avenues for revenue growth and customer loyalty.

About Parla Retail Ltd: Parla Retail's 1-to-1 Live Commerce software redefines how retailers engage with customers online by connecting them with salespeople who provide answers, share recommendations, and perform demonstrations during live video calls to give customers confidence to make a purchase. With a passion for understanding what drives customer engagement and business growth, Parla Retail's game-changing software is designed for the retail enterprise, featuring automation that fully integrates with existing retail technology stacks via the cloud to create in-store shopping experiences online for retailers and D2C brands of all sizes. For more information, visit Parla Retail (https://www.parlaretail.com).

About the Interactive Customer Experience Association (ICX): The Interactive Customer Experience Association (ICX) is a leading organization dedicated to advancing the customer experience through innovative technologies and strategies. For more information visit ICX Summit (https://icxsummit.com/).

CONTACT: Jamila Jamani, [email protected] +447807304919

Video - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211049/ICX_competition_with_P_watermark.mp4

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211010/Parla_ICX_award.jpg

SOURCE Parla Retail Ltd
Multigenerational Producers Matetic & Quinta do Vallado Nominated for New World Winery of the Year & European Winery of the Year Respectively

NAPA, Calif., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading wine importer, marketer and sales company, Quintessential is honored to be nominated for two Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Awards for New World Winery of the Year and European Winery of the Year. Influential producers Matetic Vineyards, located in the Rosario Valley in Chile, and Quinta do Vallado, located in the Douro Valley in Portugal, are in the running for these titles respectively due to their storied histories and industry achievements. Managed by the Kreps family, Quintessential marks these accolades while celebrating 20 years of exclusively championing family-owned and operated wineries. Quintessential's global portfolio includes 30 dynamic families with 41 wineries in 11 countries.

Quintessential is nominated for two Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Awards 2023: New World and European Winery of the Year. Post this Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Awards Nominee 2023

Steve Kreps Sr. shares, "Our relationship with Wine Enthusiast spans back to our early years as a company. These nominations are a true privilege to receive from this prestigious industry publication." Dennis Kreps adds, "The quality of our diverse global portfolio of family-owned wineries is the reason we were honored with Importer of the Year in 2020, so to receive continued recognition on their behalf is outstanding."

Matetic Vineyards occupies over 200 planted acres between the San Antonio and Casablanca Valleys of Chile in the Rosario Valley, with ocean influences and a unique climate. Notably Matetic Syrah became Chile's first cool climate Syrah along with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Matetic obtained organic certification by CERES GmbH and was awarded biodynamic certification by Demeter. The winery is dedicated to sustainable tourism, inviting wine lovers around the world to stay at their certified organic boutique hotel, La Casona. During the pandemic, Matetic developed an interactive experience called "The Trail of Senses" that highlights biodynamic farming and winemaking. Matetic's Syrahs have consistently scored 92/93 from Wine Enthusiast in recent vintages and 92/91 points for their EQ Pinot Noir (2018 and 2017 respectively).

Quinta do Vallado has been producing wines from Portugal's Douro Valley since 1716. Founded by the legendary Dona Antonia Adelaide Ferreira, the 250-acre property is run by sixth generation owners Joao Ferreira Alvares Ribeiro and Francisco Ferreira. The estate includes 100-year-old field blend vines, single variety plots and certified organic vineyards. The winery produced Port wines exclusively until the 1990's when it expanded production into dry wines. Quinta do Vallado built a state-of-the-art winery in 2009, along with a sophisticated hotel in 2015 to promote tourism to the Douro Valley. Vallado has secured 16 scores of 94+ from Wine Enthusiast in the last 5 years.

For more information on Quintessential or any inquiries, please contact Louise Jordan DipWSET, Director of Communications, [email protected].

About Quintessential:

Based in Napa, CaliforniaQuintessential is a leading fine wine importer, marketer and sales company exclusively representing family-owned wineries. An early champion of multi-generational producers, Quintessential values expressions of celebrated terroir from around the world. Led by father and son, Steve Sr. and Dennis Kreps, the global portfolio now includes 30 dynamic families with 41 wineries from 11 countries.

SOURCE Quintessential
ROCKVILLE, Md., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Heart Failure Society of America (HFSA) is pleased to announce Randall C. Starling, MD, MPH, Professor of Medicine, Kaufman Center for Heart Failure Treatment and Recovery, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of the Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Clinic Heart, Vascular, and Thoracic Institute Staff Cardiologist, Robert and Suzanne Tomsich Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, as a recipient of the 2023 HFSA Lifetime Achievement Award. The award will be presented to Dr. Starling at the HFSA Annual Scientific Meeting on Saturday, October 7 in Cleveland, Ohio. As an internationally recognized pioneer and expert in the field of heart failure, this prestigious award will pay tribute to his exemplary career in heart failure research, publishing, mentorship and leadership.

HFSA Annual Scientific Meeting 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award Spotlight: Randall C. Starling, MD, MPH, FACC, FAHA, FESC, FHFSA - Professor of Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of the Case Western Reserve University, Kaufman Center for Heart Failure Treatment and Recovery, Heart, Vascular, and Thoracic Institute, Cleveland Clinic.

Dr. Starling served as President of HFSA in 2018-2019 and has been an active member since its inception in 1995. He also served as a past treasurer, board of directors for two terms, chair of committees for the society and currently serves as an associate editor for HFSA's publication the Journal of Cardiac Failure.

Dr. Starling completed his undergraduate work in biology and graduated cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh. He continued his education at the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, where he graduated summa cum laude with a Master's Degree in Public Health. He received his medical degree at Temple University, Philadelphia, where he was an Honor Graduate, was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society and was awarded the Mosby Book Scholarship. He returned to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center to complete his internship and residency in internal medicine.

During the course of his clinical training and association with the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Dr. Starling became Chief Medical Resident, Instructor in Medicine. Dr. Starling completed a fellowship in cardiology from the Ohio State University (OSU), where he was eventually Associate Professor of Medicine with tenure. Dr. Starling helped to launch the OSU heart transplant program in 1996, serving as the first medical director. Dr. Starling formerly served as Vice Chairman of Cardiovascular Medicine, and section head of heart failure and cardiac transplant medicine at Cleveland Clinic. Currently, he is as active clinician researcher with an active clinical practice at Cleveland Clinic. He formerly served a 5-year term on the Cleveland Clinic Board of Governors.

An accomplished researcher, Dr. Starling has been a principal or co-principal investigator on numerous clinical trials, including National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant-funded trials and industry-sponsored trials. He has conducted numerous research trials including multicenter, randomized trials related to cardiac transplantation, mechanical circulatory support devices and heart failure. In addition to research, Dr. Starling has published more than 500 peer reviewed articles and numerous book chapters. He has over 106,000 citations, h-index 111 and i10-index 442. Dr. Starling served as Program Co-Chair, Scientific Program, Scientific Sessions 2007 American College of Cardiology, and International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation Annual Scientific meeting chair 2009. Dr. Starling also served as past section editor of the ACC Heart Failure Self-Assessment Program.

Dr. Starling was integral to heart failure training, as he initiated the heart failure fellowship at Cleveland Clinic in 1995, which has trained and graduated over 100 fellows over the past 25 years. In addition to his involvement with HFSA, he has served on the board of directors of the United Network of Organ Sharing and International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation.

Dr. Starling joins an elite list of current and past Lifetime Achievement Award winners with this year's recognition.

Registration is open for the 2023 HFSA Annual Scientific Meeting, October 6-9 at the Huntington Convention Center in Cleveland, Ohio. The meeting will feature the best of science, research and practical management in the field of heart failure, plus valuable connection opportunities, including networking receptions, an exhibit hall, and other awards ceremonies.

About the Heart Failure Society of America

The Heart Failure Society of America, Inc. (HFSA) represents the first organized effort by heart failure experts from the Americas to provide a forum for all those interested in heart function, heart failure, and congestive heart failure (CHF) research and patient care. The mission of HFSA is to provide a platform to improve and expand heart failure care through collaboration, education, innovation, research, and advocacy. HFSA members include physicians, scientists, nurses, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, trainees, other healthcare workers and patients. For more information, visit hfsa.org.

About the HFSA Lifetime Achievement Award

The HFSA Lifetime Achievement Award is presented by the HFSA Board of Directors. The purpose of this award is to recognize a lifetime body of work by individuals who have made a significant and sustained contribution to the field of heart failure. Learn more.

Media Contact: Laura Poko, 301-798-4493, ext. 226, [email protected]

SOURCE Heart Failure Society of America
Saving Sea Turtles and Supporting The South Carolina Aquarium

CHARLESTON, S.C., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As the lead sponsor of the Nutritional Care Program at the South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston Coffee Roasters has the honor of naming another rescued sea turtle.

After the release of Jo the Sea Turtle in February, the Aquarium invited Charleston Coffee Roasters to enlist the public to help name another rescued sea turtle undergoing rehabilitation at the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Care Center. An amazing 1,746 individuals submitted ideas  and "Java" was selected as the name for a rescued sea turtle!

Java is a juvenile green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) that was stranded on Hilton Head Island in the pluff mud. On August 9, a local resident reported the turtle to South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), and Hilton Head Island Sea Turtle Patrol Team members responded. Thanks to the collaborative efforts from the community, this sick sea turtle was able to safely make it to the South Carolina Aquarium's Sea Turtle Care Center.

Meet Java the Sea Turtle on our website.

Congratulations to Angela W. from Wendell, NC for winning our Grand Prize for submitting the name Java. Angela will receive:

2 Bags of Aquarium Blend coffee

2 Bags of Beach House Blend coffee

4 Tickets to The South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston, S.C.

The complete set of the Beach House Series (7 books!) signed by NY Times best-selling author Mary Alice Monroe

And congratulations to our 24 runner ups who also submitted Java as a name idea and will receive 1 bag of Aquarium Blend and 1 bag of Beach House Blend. We appreciate all the interest in saving sea turtles!

Our community conservation effort is spearheaded by friends and longtime Charleston residents Mary Alice Monroe  the New York Times bestselling author of nearly 30 books with more than 8 million copies in print worldwide  and Lowell D. Grosse  Founder and President of Charleston Coffee Roasters.

Charleston Coffee Roasters is proud to support the efforts of the South Carolina Aquarium through our business. We are the lead sponsor of the Nutritional Care Program at the South Carolina Aquarium, which supplies more than 200 pounds of food daily for nearly 5,000 resident animals and sea turtles undergoing rehabilitation in the Sea Turtle Care Center.

"Aquarium Blend was developed to celebrate our partnership with the South Carolina Aquarium" said Grosse. "We are committed to conservation, and we appreciate everything the Aquarium does to save sea turtles and our natural environment."

Monroe added, "I'm devoted to the environment and animal conservation, which are hallmarks of many of my novels. I am honored to support Lowell's vision of giving back to my beloved Aquarium and its Sea Turtle Care Center through Charleston Coffee Roasters. Beach House Blend makes one powerful cup of coffee!"

"Like many of the patients undergoing rehabilitation in the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Care Center, Java was admitted with a long list of ailments that we have spent the past few weeks treating," said Melissa Ranly, Sea Turtle Care Center Manager. "The road ahead is a long one, but it truly takes a village to ensure the survival of threatened and endangered sea turtles. We're grateful for the multiple individuals, agencies and the community who enabled us to give this sea turtle a fighting chance."

We'll be sure to share updates as Java receives treatment at the Sea Turtle Care Center.

For all Charleston Coffee Roasters media inquiries, contact Rick Herrick at (415) 613-3145 or [email protected].

About Charleston Coffee Roasters:

Founded by veteran coffee importer Lowell Grosse in 2005, Charleston Coffee Roasters creates a craft coffee experience as rich in flavor and character as Charleston itself. Within the company's Charleston facility, each coffee bean is slow roasted in small batches by master roasters, with constant "cupping" to ensure quality. The company proves its dedication to helping the community and the ecosystem, by purchasing certified, sustainably grown coffees from farmers who take care of their workers and the environment; and by actively supporting Charleston charities and organizations. Charleston Coffee Roasters is also the lead sponsor of the Nutritional Care Program at the South Carolina Aquarium and is an advocate for the conservation of sea turtles, which are the inspiration for the Charleston Coffee Roasters "turtle bean" logo. Learn more at https://www.charlestoncoffeeroasters.com/

About Mary Alice Monroe:

Mary Alice Monroe is the New York Times bestselling author of nearly 30 books, including the bestselling The Beach House series, for which the coffee was named. The Beach House is now a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie. Monroe has received numerous awards, including being inducted into the South Carolina Academy of Authors Hall of Fame. An active conservationist, she lives on a barrier island in Charleston, S.C. http://www.maryalicemonroe.com/

About the South Carolina Aquarium:

The South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston's No.1 family attraction, is home to more than 5,000 animals, from river otters and sharks to sea turtles and shorebirds, and represents the rich biodiversity of our state  from the mountains to the sea. Visitors can also get an inside look at the Sea Turtle Care Center, a working hospital dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sick and injured sea turtles. While fulfilling its mission to promote education, conservation, and an exceptional visitor experience, the Aquarium also presents sweeping views of the Charleston Harbor along with interactive exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages.

The South Carolina Aquarium is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m.5 p.m., with the last entry at 3:30 p.m. The Aquarium is open seven days a week with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, December 25 and a half day on December 24 (open 9 a.m.noon). Annual Aquarium membership with unlimited visits starts at $99. For more information, call (843) 577-FISH (3474) or visit scaquarium.org.

Contact: Rick Herrick

(415) 613-3145

[email protected]

SOURCE Charleston Coffee Roasters
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, September 14. Thanks to Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev, we elevated health as a top priority on political agenda of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), WHO Regional Director for Europe Hans Henri Kluge told Trend on September 14 ahead of the 5th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

Last time when I was in Azerbaijan, I had the great honor to meet President Ilham Aliyev. We had discussions on many issues. I would like to congratulate President Ilham Aliyev for his leadership in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). Thanks to the President Ilham Aliyev, we elevated health as a top priority on political agenda of NAM, which of course is very important, because we saw during COVID-19 that without heath there is nothing. Azerbaijan demonstrated an enormous role solidarity to many countries of NAM when they did not have the vaccines, he said.

Kluge pointed out that actually, many countries are speaking about solidarity, but not so many were doing.

Azerbaijan was speaking and doing solidarity. Azerbaijan is very close to my heart, we have very long standing collaboration, first and foremost with my very good friend Minister of Health Teymur Musayev. I was there not so long ago, said the WHO director general.

Kluge noted that the number one issue which the sides are discussing closely is the education of medical workers.

Number two, is the strengthening of the primary healthcare to bring health as closely as possible to the people. We can treat most of the diseases cheaper and effective in the primary healthcare. I attended a number of primary healthcare facilities in Azerbaijan. I was very impressed by the professionalism of the doctors, the nurses. I want to say a very big thank to all the medical workers and nurses in your country. Number three, are the efforts on the future of hospitals. Not so long ago Azerbaijan organized a meeting for the on the future of the hospitals. Primary healthcare is very important, but we also need to think about digitalization, about greening of the hospitals, he added.
A Tingly Surprise in Every Mint

HERSHEY, Pa., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The world of refreshment gets a delightful surprise as Ice Breakers brand introduces its newest mint  Ice Breakers Raspberry Lemon Seltzer Sparkling Mints. We've combined the classic flavor crystals Ice Breakers is known for with a new, effervescent, seltzer sensation that's sure to make your taste buds tingle.

New Ice Breakers Raspberry Lemon Seltzer Sparkling Mints are a first-of-their-kind mint innovation. Post this New Innovation from Ice Breakers brand: Raspberry Lemon Seltzer Sparkling Mint

This first-of-their-kind mint brings you fresh breath with a bubbly fizz delivering a completely new mint experience reminiscent of sipping a flavored seltzer water. New Ice Breakers Raspberry Lemon Seltzer Sparkling Mints bring a fusion of flavors, combining the tangy sweetness of raspberry with the zesty burst of lemon.

"'We've truly pushed the boundaries of refreshment with our Raspberry Lemon Seltzer Sparkling Mints,' says Taylor Schwartz, senior associate manager, brand refreshment. 'This innovative product delivers a completely new sensorial experience that will redefine consumers' expectations of mints.'"

The Ice Breakers Raspberry Lemon Seltzer Sparkling Mints are available in 1.5 oz. pack at retailers nationwide.

For more information, please visit www.ice-breakers.com.

*Pricing is at the sole discretion of the retailer.

About The Hershey Company

The Hershey Company is headquartered in Hershey, Pennsylvania and is an industry-leading snacks company known for making more moments of goodness through its iconic brands, remarkable people and enduring commitment to doing the right thing for its people, planet and communities. Hershey has nearly 20,000 employees in the U.S. and around the world who work every day to deliver delicious, high-quality products. The company has more than 100 brand names in approximately 80 countries worldwide that drive more than $10.4 billion in annual revenues, including Hershey's, Reese's, Kit Kat, Jolly Rancher and Ice Breakers, and fast-growing salty snacks including SkinnyPop, Pirate's Booty and Dot's Homestyle Pretzels.

For more than 125 years, Hershey has been committed to operating fairly, ethically and sustainably. The candy and snack maker's founder, Milton Hershey, created Milton Hershey School in 1909 and since then the company has focused on helping children succeed through equitable access to education.

To learn more visit www.thehersheycompany.com.

Follow:

http://www.twitter.com/hersheycompany

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-hershey-company

http://www.facebook.com/hersheycompany

http://www.youtube.com/hersheycompany

http://www.instagram.com/hersheycompany

SOURCE The Hershey Company
Preeminent Cardiologists Accepting New Patients, Expand MDVIP Primary Care Services in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES and BOCA RATON, Fla., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MDVIP , the market leader in personalized healthcare with a network of over 1,100 primary care physicians nationwide, today announced that two MDVIP-affiliated doctors, Sam Setareh, M.D., M.S., F.A.C.C., and David M. Filsoof, M.D., have acquired the practice of esteemed Los Angeles cardiologist Ivor L. Geft, M.D., who retired after 43 years of clinical service in the community.

Sam Setareh, M.D., M.S., F.A.C.C., is an MDVIP-affiliated physician in Los Angeles with board certification in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease. David M. Filsoof, M.D., is an MDVIP-affiliated physician in Los Angeles with board certification in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease.

Drs. Setareh and Filsoof are currently accepting new patients in their practice, which is located at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Office Towers in Los Angeles. Both physicians are double board-certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease, and in addition to the full spectrum of cardiology services, provide comprehensive preventive care as affiliates of the MDVIP primary care network.

"Dr. Ivor Geft has been an integral part of the L.A. medical community whose distinguished career spans over four decades at Cedars-Sinai's leading cardiology program," said Dr. Setareh. "I am excited to partner with Dr. David Filsoof in providing the compassionate and state-of-the-art cardiovascular care that the practice is known for."

"We are honored and grateful that Dr. Ivor Geft has entrusted us to continue his legacy of helping patients improve their health and their lives," said Dr. Filsoof. "The MDVIP primary care model, which prioritizes heart health, is a natural complement to the proactive, prevention-based approach of our practice."

Under the MDVIP program, doctors maintain a smaller practice, allowing them to spend more time with patients to focus on disease prevention and early detection, as well as help manage chronic conditions. Patient benefits include same- or next-day appointments, extended visits that last an average of 30 minutes and 24/7 physician availability via cell phone.

About Sam Setareh, M.D., M.S., F.A.C.C.

Dr. Setareh received a Master of Science in Global Medicine from the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California and earned his medical degree from The Sackler School of Medicine at Tel Aviv University. He completed his internship and residency in Internal Medicine as well as a Fellowship in Cardiovascular Disease from the prestigious Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York. Dr. Setareh is double board-certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiology and is an attending physician at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, Southern California Hospitals and California Rehabilitation Institute. He is actively involved in clinical research; focused on cardiovascular disease prevention and performance, heart failure and valvular disease; and has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and cardiology textbook chapters. For more information about Dr. Setareh, visit https://www.mdvip.com/doctors/samsetarehmd.

About David M. Filsoof, M.D.

Dr. Filsoof received his medical degree from the New York Medical Center in Valhalla, New York. He completed his internship at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles and a dual residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at the Texas Medical Center in Houston. Dr. Filsoof went on to complete two fellowships, including one in Cardiovascular Disease at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, and the second in Echocardiography and Advanced Cardiac Imaging at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. He is double board-certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease and is an attending physician at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, Southern California Hospital Culver City and California Rehabilitation Institute. Dr. Filsoof is licensed in more than 15 states across the U.S. and has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, editorials and book chapters in respected journals. For more information about Dr. Filsoof, visit https://www.mdvip.com/doctors/DavidFilsoofMD.

About MDVIP

MDVIP leads the market in membership-based healthcare that goes far beyond concierge medicine services with a national network of more than 1,100 primary care physicians serving over 385,000 patients. Published research shows that the MDVIP model identifies more patients at risk for cardiovascular disease, delivers more preventive health services and saves the healthcare system hundreds of millions of dollars through reduced hospitalizations and readmissions. In response to growing consumer demand for a more personalized healthcare experience, hospital systems are incorporating the MDVIP model into their primary care offering. MDVIP also partners with employers to offer an executive health program as a benefit to their employees. The company has been certified by Great Place to Work since 2018 and is recognized by Fortune as one of the 2023 Best Workplaces in Healthcare . For more information, visit www.mdvip.com . Follow MDVIP on Facebook , Instagram , X and LinkedIn .

Media Contact:

Leslie Monreal-Feil

954-401-9931

[email protected]

SOURCE MDVIP
Partnership helps organizations modernize cybersecurity infrastructures to meet rising global demand

SAN FRANCISCO and ALMATY, Kazakhstan, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Scality , a global leader in reliable, secure, and sustainable data storage software, has partnered with value-added distributor Comportal to help enterprises in the region modernize IT infrastructures with state-of-the-art private cloud storage solutions focused on cyber resiliency and large-scale data growth.

Comportal will deliver Scality ARTESCA and RING , object storage software that solves organizations' biggest data storage challenges  growth, security and cost  and delivers 100% uptime, ransomware protection and utmost resilience.

Demand for resources within Kazakhstan and the surrounding region are becoming a critical part of the global economy, and the shift has pushed more organizations to build local, sovereign private clouds. Scality and Comportal's new partnership now helps more companies in Kazakhstan and Central Asia implement modern software-defined storage solutions to meet this need. The alliance reinforces a customer-first strategy to developing partner ecosystems that merges expertise  among local VARs, leading hardware suppliers, and backup application vendors  for best-in-class disaster recovery solutions and cloud infrastructure.

Comportal, combined with Scality and its ecosystem of partners, ensures customers are protected against any threat and can comply with local data sovereignty regulations. The joint goal is to ensure customers meet business objectives with a state-of-the-art infrastructure that's future-proof and reliable.

Positioned by Gartner as a leader in the Magic Quadrant for Distributed File Systems & Object Storage for seven years in a row, Scality's file and object storage solutions help the worldwide channel build effective, secure, and scalable strategies for customers managing unstructured data growth.

Comportal will showcase Scality's object storage solutions used along with Veeam's ransomware protection and backup solutions at an event scheduled for Tuesday, September 19th in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

Marie-Laure Retureau, regional director, Scality: "We are delighted to partner with Comportal to reinforce our local presence, support our existing customer base and help enterprises across Central Asia with Scality's storage solutions. Comportal's strategic partnerships with technology leaders, its extensive knowledge of the IT storage market, and its partnerships with hardware vendors such as HPE, confirm that we share a commitment to deploying cost-effective yet flexible solutions that thwart ransomware attacks and deliver peace of mind."

Igor Archibassov, head of software brands management department, Comportal: "Enterprises here need the latest and best solutions to operate in a global environment, where ransomware threats are ever-present. Our partnership with Scality empowers us to meet growing demand as the energy, agricultural and financial services sectors look for exceptional solutions that can take their businesses to the next level."

About Comportal

The Comportal company has been operating in the Kazakhstani IT market since 2010. The company has an extensive partner network and occupies a leading position in the IT market of Kazakhstan. It provides a wide range of products from leading vendors along with a comprehensive set of services from its logistics center in Almaty.

Comportal's mission is to improve the quality of all spheres of life by distributing advanced IT solutions and services from the world's leading manufacturers. We help businesses to thrive and provide valuable support to IT integrators and retail chains in realizing their ambitious plans.

About Scality

Scality solves organizations' biggest data storage challenges  growth, security, and cost. Delivering 100% uptime, unbreakable ransomware protection and utmost resilience, Scality RING and ARTESCA make storage infrastructures infinitely scalable in all critical dimensions: capacity, performance, applications and data location. From core to cloud to edge, Scality object storage software is reliable, secure and sustainable. The world's most discerning companies trust Scality so they can grow faster and execute new ideas quicker  while increasing efficiency and avoiding lock-in. Recognized as a leader by Gartner and IDC. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn . Visit www.scality.com , or subscribe to our blog .

SOURCE Scality
Products made in state-of-the-art facility will support customers in the energy transition and contribute to the build out of America's infrastructure

The projected 400 new jobs will boost the company's total number of employees in El Paso to about 1,500 by year end

to about 1,500 by year end Company's fourth El Paso plant makes the city home to its largest manufacturing operation in the United States

EL PASO, Texas, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Schneider Electric, the global leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, joined forces with state, region, and local officials and dignitaries to formally unveil its new 160,000 square foot manufacturing plant in El Paso, TX. The plant is part of a $300 million U.S. manufacturing investment the company has made to support customers who will use the electrical equipment produced in it, contributing to the advancement of the energy transition and the build out of America's infrastructure.

"Schneider Electric is proud to be at the forefront of America's manufacturing renaissance, exemplifying our commitment to fostering innovation, job creation, and sustainable growth," said Annette Clayton, CEO of Schneider Electric North America. "As we embark on this journey with the opening of our latest manufacturing plant in the United States, we look forward to providing the highest level of service to our customers while also contributing to the revitalization of American manufacturing."

With more than 20 plants in its U.S. manufacturing network, the latest smart factory opening makes Schneider Electric's El Paso campus the company's largest manufacturing operation in the U.S. By the end of the year, the company will have approximately 1,500 employees in El Paso, thanks to the creation of about 400 new jobs making the Fortune 500 company one of the largest employers in the region.

"We are proud that Texas is home to a booming tech manufacturing sector that continues to fuel Texas' economic global might," said Governor Abbott. "Texas is a hub of innovation, and Schneider Electric's new facility in El Paso will help produce medium voltage switchgear serving the data center market segment. Schneider Electric is a key part of the Texas economic juggernaut, and I thank Judge Samaniego, Mayor Leeser, the Borderplex Alliance, and all the community leaders involved for their work to bring such a great company to this wonderful city. This facility is an investment in the future of El Paso and an important piece in building the Texas of tomorrow."

Located in the Northwest Corporate Center, the new facility produces custom designed low voltage and medium voltage electrical products that safely distribute electrical power from the utility grid to various places within industrial, commercial, and residential settings. The first set of products manufactured in the new El Paso plant shipped out earlier this summer to customers in the data center sector.

"Schneider Electric's investment in the El Paso community goes beyond creating well-paying jobs for our skilled workforce - it's significantly enhancing our local economy," said El Paso Mayor Oscar Leeser. "On behalf of the people of El Paso, I want to thank Schneider Electric for their continued commitment to our region and their role in fostering economic development and skilled job opportunities."

"Schneider Electric's expansion in El Paso showcases the Borderplex region's significant contributions to our country's economy," said Jon Barela, CEO, Borderplex Alliance. "We're grateful to Schneider Electric for choosing our community to expand its operations and thank our city and county partners for their cooperation in continuing to move our region forward."

"Schneider Electric, a formidable force in the industry, not only holds the key to unlocking economic growth but also possesses the unparalleled ability to elevate the very fabric of our community, enriching lives in ways beyond measure," said Ricardo A. Samaniego, El Paso County Judge. "This decision exemplifies our county's unwavering commitment to fostering innovation, bolstering enterprises, and cultivating a hospitable ecosystem for esteemed industry pioneers."

Since 2020, the company has not only constructed its new El Paso plant it has also invested in equipment and upgraded operations at its manufacturing facilities in Lexington, Kentucky; Lincoln, Nebraska; as well as Mechanicsburg and Middletown, Pennsylvania. The enhancements, made possible by the $300 million multi-year investment, have made these facilities smarter, more sustainable, and highly efficient.

Schneider Electric is currently ranked No. 1 in Gartner, Inc's Global Supply Chain Top 25 list the industry analyst firm publishes annually that recognizes companies with leading supply chain operations. The company was recently ranked among the Top 10 of the 2023 Best Workplaces in Manufacturing & Production by the Great Place to Work U.S. organization and Fortune magazine. In 2022, its El Paso campus expansion project received recognition as the Project of the Year from the Texas Economic Development Council for cities with a population of more than 250,000 residents.

About Schneider Electric

Schneider's purpose is to empower all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. We call this Life Is On.

Our mission is to be your digital partner for Sustainability and Efficiency.

We drive digital transformation by integrating world-leading process and energy technologies, end-point to cloud connecting products, controls, software and services, across the entire lifecycle, enabling integrated company management, for homes, buildings, data centers, infrastructure and industries.

We are the most local of global companies. We are advocates of open standards and partnership ecosystems that are passionate about our shared Meaningful Purpose, Inclusive and Empowered values.

www.se.com

Follow us on:

Hashtags: #AccessToEnergy #SchneiderElectric #SupplyChain #Manufacturing #Investment

SOURCE Schneider Electric
BOSTON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Second Avenue Capital Partners (SACP), a Schottenstein affiliate, has provided a new $44 Million revolving credit facility for Allstar Marketing Group, a dynamic consumer product development and marketing company. SACP was also the agent for an additional $6 Million term loan to support Allstar's growth initiatives.

The financing agreements reflect the confidence in Allstar Marketing Group's growth potential and the strong partnership between the company and its lenders. With the additional capital, Allstar aims to leverage its core platform to accelerate growth through new market-driven opportunities and pursue strategic acquisitions.

The $50 Million credit facility offers Allstar Marketing Group increased financial flexibility and liquidity. Post this

"We are grateful for the trust and support shown by Second Avenue Capital Partners," commented Scott Boilen, Founder and CEO of Allstar Marketing Group. "This financing marks a significant step forward for our company, allowing us to further our product research and development, strengthen our market position, and continue delivering innovative products that enhance consumers' lives."

As part of its commitment to fostering entrepreneurial success, SACP specializes in providing tailored financing solutions to support businesses in various industries. The $50 Million credit facility offers Allstar Marketing Group increased financial flexibility and liquidity, empowering the company to capitalize on emerging market opportunities and drive its long-term strategic vision.

"We are delighted to partner with Allstar Marketing Group in this significant financing endeavor," said Mark Gallivan, Managing Director of Second Avenue Capital Partners. "Their dedication to developing groundbreaking consumer products aligns perfectly with our vision for empowering companies to thrive in competitive markets. We are excited to see the transformative impact of this partnership."

About Second Avenue Capital Partners  Second Avenue Capital Partners, LLC (SACP), a Schottenstein Affiliate, specializes in asset-based loans for the broader retail and consumer products industry. Serving middle-market companies, SACP leverages the experience of retail operators, product merchants, and lenders to deliver customized capital solutions. A unique merchant perspective allows SACP to recognize and unlock value in assets other capital providers often overlook or do not understand. The firm's tailored financial solutions are a vital resource for clients seeking capital to effectuate strategy and achieve financial objectives. Learn more at sacp.com

About Allstar Marketing Group - Founded in 1999, Allstar Marketing Group is a Performance Marketing company that has been directly responsible for some of the most successful consumer products in history. Allstar works with brands who are on the precipice of becoming a household name, but are unable to market and distribute to retail at a larger scale. Allstar acts as an extension to the brands they work with and employs experts in direct response marketing, product development manufacturing, and retail distribution to simultaneously build brands and drive sales. Allstar discovers, evaluates, tests, optimizes and maximizes products before they reach the consumer, this process is Allstar's C2C experience. For more information, visit allstarmg.com.

SOURCE Second Avenue Capital Partners, LLC
NEW YORK, Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Doximity, Inc. ("Doximity" or the "Company") (NYSE: DOCS). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether Doximity and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On August 8, 2023, after the market closed, Doximity reported its first quarter 2024 financial results and issued revised guidance for fiscal year 2024. Among other items, Doximity announced that it now expects revenue in the range of $452 million to $468 million, significantly less than the Company's prior estimate of $503 million.

On this news, Doximity's stock price fell $7.49 per share, or 22.8%, to close at $25.30 per share on August 9, 2023.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered billions of dollars in damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
MOORESVILLE, N.C., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- After seeing how the American leg of Taylor Swift's The Era's Tour sparked so much joy and brought so many together, Sheets Laundry Club wanted to celebrate the unifying power of catchy songwriting by giving one lucky Sheets fan and a guest the opportunity to attend the tour live in Melbourne, Australia February 16th 2024. This giveaway will include roundtrip airfare, four nights in the Melbourne Ritz Carlton Hotel and a $1000 Visa Gift Card.**

Sheets Laundry Club The Land Down Under Giveaway

Sheets Laundry Club offers a line of sustainably packaged products for your laundry and cleaning routine, inspired by CEO and Founder Chris Videau's 20 years in the US Army and all the plastic pollution he encountered overseas that even affected his own personal health. Since its launch in 2019, Videau's vision for Sheets was to create a plastic-free future in the laundry and cleaning space and never compromise quality or convenience to provide plastic-free packaged alternatives to everyone's laundry and cleaning favorites.

Starting September 15th, 2023, fans can enter the "Down Under Giveaway" and get a chance to win a trip to Melbourne, Australia to attend Taylor Swift's the Era's Tour. Sheets CEO, Chris Videau is "thrilled to give someone in the Sheets Fam the opportunity to travel the way I got to while I was in the military." As Sheets works toward being a part of ending the plastic crisis, we want to have fun along the way. "Our customers are the reason why we are making such a big difference for the Earth; we want them to be a part of celebrating our wins along with us."

** Subject to restrictions that can be found at www.SheetsLaundryClub.com/giveaway

About Sheets Laundry Club

Launched in 2019 from a home garage by Chris Videau and his wife Laurian, Sheets Laundry Club set out to change the world with its ingenious Laundry Detergent Sheet- what looks like a sheet of note paper instantly dissolves in your washing machine to be the equivalent of a full cup of detergent. Sheets has reached major milestones in its first few years in business-including an appearance on Shark Tank that garnered a deal, expanding products in the laundry and cleaning categories, and multiple partnerships with charitable organizations ranging from environmental to animal and veteran focused causes.

The Sweepstakes begins on September 15th, 2023, at 9 a.m. Eastern Standard Time and ends on November 30, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.

SOURCE Sheets Laundry Club
Commitment brings support for "people" pillar of company's ESG roadmap to US$155 Million

SINGAPORE, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SHEIN, a global, integrated, fashion and lifestyle marketplace ("SHEIN Marketplace"), announced that it is allocating an additional US$85 Million over five years towards initiatives that support the "Equitable Empowerment" pillar of its evoluSHEIN roadmap. This is in addition to US$70 Million already committed in April 2023.

SHEIN's ESG roadmap, evoluSHEIN, is the company's strategy to address social and environmental challenges and make a positive impact on society. The roadmap comprises nine priorities organized under three strategic pillars  People, Planet and Process.

Equitable Empowerment, the "people" pillar, focuses on uplifting and empowering stakeholders who are fundamental to SHEIN's success.

Waste-less Innovation looks at improving SHEIN's processes and practices to enable a circular future and reduce waste.

Collective Resilience outlines SHEIN's strategy to collaborate with stakeholders across our shared ecosystem to ensure the sustainability of our planet.

The "Equitable Empowerment" pillar seeks to improve the lives of communities that are important to SHEIN and create opportunities for people in these communities to reach their full potential, focusing on aspiring designers, SHEIN's supplier community, and women, young people and the underprivileged.

"At SHEIN, we aim to empower our different stakeholder communities with the tools, capabilities and funding to improve and change lives, whether in their personal or professional capacity," says Molly Miao, Chief Operating Officer at SHEIN. "This fund will support these communities to grow alongside SHEIN, towards a more equitable future."

The US$155 Million in funding is broken down over five years across the groups as follows:

Aspiring designers: US$50 Million

SHEIN's manufacturing supplier community: US$70 Million (Announced in April 2023 )

(Announced in ) Women, young people and the underprivileged: US$ 35 Million

Empowering Aspiring Designers

SHEIN has committed US$50 Million towards the SHEIN X Designer Incubator Program, to empower up to 5,000 emerging designers over five years to build their own successful brands. This additional funding will bring the company's total investment into the SHEIN X Designer Incubator Program to US$105 Million till 2028.

Since launching in January 2021, the program has grown from seven to nearly 3,000 designers and artists from over 20 countries, launching more than 25,000 original creations to global audiences.

Empowering the Supply Chain

SHEIN's Supplier Community Empowerment Program (SCEP) helps the company's manufacturing supplier community to transform traditional production models with technology advancements, providing factory and facilities enhancements, training and upskilling for workers and services for communities within the supplier ecosystems in Brazil, China and Turkey. In April 2023, SHEIN announced a total of US$70 Million of funding for the SCEP over five years.

Empowering Local Communities

To improve the lives of the communities, the company is allocating US$35 Million over five years to expand or fund new global or in-country social impact activities focused on empowering women, promoting gender equality, supporting the development of young people and poverty alleviation.

SOURCE SHEIN
NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Marc Bouwer has attained worldwide recognition as a fashion designer is now releasing his first ever solo show as an artist. The show called Facial Recognition is a journey of the imagination, personality, and story through colorful engrossing portraiture and abstractions - painted mostly by Marc during the pandemic by repurposing discarded canvas, cardboard, and wood.

Marc Bouwer sitting in front of his painting - "Waiting to Walk" acrylic on cardboard 68" x 48" at 510 W 42nd ST. Photo by Rozella Kim @sixsummitgallery Ariella Oliver dressed in Marc Bouwer sitting in front of Bouwer's - "Kisses Gone, acrylic on canvas 36"x36" and Karen Lisa, arylic on canvas canvas 36" x 36" at the opening of Facial Recognition 510 W 42nd St photo by Rozella Kim SSG @sixsummitgallery

The faces painted with dry acrylic in colorful neon hues and black backgrounds emerge as individual personalities evoking distinct stories, allowing the mind to create a persona and experience just by looking.

As an acclaimed fashion designer and creative director, he has dressed luminaries such as Beyonce, Angelina Jolie, Whitney Houston, Shania Twain, Emily Blunt, Oprah Winfrey, Sarah Jessica Parker, Issa Rae, Kelsea Ballerini, Jane Fonda, Sigourney Weaver and many more.

Bouwers talent as a designer is at the highest level as Cosmopolitan Magazine cited his Angelina Jolie Academy Award dress as "one of the best Oscar dresses of all time" and Harper's Bazaar named it "one of 100 best red-carpet dresses".

Bouwer's designs have graced the covers of Harper's Bazaar, Oprah, Cosmopolitan, InStyle, Vanity Fair, Glamour and Vibe Magazine among others, and he has received multiple awards for avoiding animal products including PETA Humanitarian Award, and The United States Humane Societies "Compassion in Fashion Award".

He now is returning to his roots as a student, a time when he specialized in painting and sculpture. His exhibition is being represented by Six Summit Gallery in New York City, at a special runway inspired location at 510 West 42nd Street.

About SSG (Six Summit Gallery) -

A fine art gallery curating over 400 fashion related art shows over the last 15 years in NYC, LA and Miami, director Leo Feroleto embraces the similarities as well as the differences in fashion and design. Feroleto cites Bouwer as being at the top of the design industry and with his show Facial Recognition, filled with surprises, the world can now discover his skills as an artist. www.sixsummitgallery.com

SSG shows have included the first ever art installation in Hudson Yards NYC, Delano Hotel, SLS Lux, Shore Club, Saks Fifth Ave during Art Basel and Art Hearts Fashion throughout the Unites States. Some represented artists' works are in the permanent collection of The Whitney Museum, The Warhol Museum and Yale University and more

SSG flagship gallery was founded in Ivoryton CT, home to all ivory manufacturing at the turn of the century. Feroleto continues to partner with conservation groups such as The African Wildlife Foundation, Brent Stapelkamp and others to raise awareness and funds for anti-poaching efforts through art.

Instagram: @sixsummitgallery

Media Contact:

Leo Feroleto

917-573-0029

[email protected]

SOURCE Six Summit Gallery
CHICAGO, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The software-defined vehicle market is projected to grow from USD 270.9 billion in 2023 to USD 419.7 billion by 2028, registering a CAGR of 9.1% during the forecast period according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The market growth is attributed to the continued development of connected vehicles and the introduction of 5G cellular connectivity projects. Furthermore, the emergence of ride-hailing and mobility-as-a-service platforms is expected to create lucrative opportunities for the market.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=187205966

Browse in-depth TOC on "Software-defined Vehicle Market"

120  Tables

80  Figures

190  Pages

Software-defined Vehicle Market Report Scope:

Report Coverage Details Market Revenue in 2023 $ 270.9 billion Estimated Value by 2028 $ 419.7 billion Growth Rate Poised to grow at a CAGR of 9.1% Market Size Available for 20192028 Forecast Period 20232028 Forecast Units Value (USD Million) and Volume (Thousand Units) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Offering, Vehicle Type, Vehicle Autonomy, Application and Region Geographies Covered Asia Pacific, Europe, North America and Rest of World Key Market Challenge Data Security and Privacy Concerns Key Market Opportunities Emergence of ride-hailing and mobility-as-a-service platforms Key Market Drivers Enforcement of stringent vehicle safety regulations

The ICE vehicle type segment is expected to account for the largest share of the software-defined vehicle market in 2023.

The ICE segment is a significant market for software-defined vehicles. The driving factors for the adoption of ICE SDVs include the need for improved fuel efficiency and emissions, in addition to the desire for more connected and autonomous vehicles and the increasing availability of software and computing power. Software-based ICE vehicles have various benefits, including improved fuel efficiency and emissions, new features and functionality, over-the-air updates, and autonomous driving. The software in ICE-based vehicles can control the speed, steering, braking, and the environment and decide how to get around safely. Further, these vehicles often include ADAS features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and parking assist. These features rely on sensors, cameras, and software algorithms to enhance safety and convenience. For example, the Volvo XC90 is a luxury SUV with a turbocharged gasoline engine.

Hardware is expected to account for the largest share of the software-defined vehicle market in 2023.

The hardware segment accounted for the largest share of the software-defined vehicle industry in 2022, and a similar trend is expected to be witnessed during the forecast period. With increasingly standardized hardware and a narrowed technical gap, the automotive industry is likely to go through a similar development process. Due to the rise in the development of automotive technologies, the adoption of software-defined vehicles is also increasing. The hardware segment is divided into four sub-segments: ECU/DCU, sensors/actuators, power electronics, and others. This hardware plays a crucial role in shaping the behavior, capabilities, and user experience of modern vehicles.

Inquiry Before Buying: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=187205966

Asia Pacific market is expected to witness the highest CAGR in the software-defined vehicle market during the forecast period.

Asia Pacific is projected to record the highest CAGR during the forecast period. One of the key drivers for the Asia Pacific software-defined vehicle market is the increased demand ADAS, particularly in China, Japan, India, and South Korea. China already has some regulations in place in this domain. Moreover, government promotions and schemes have led to an increase in electric vehicle production volumes over the years, which caters to domestic and overseas demand. Japan and China export electric vehicles across the globe.

Key players

Key players in the software-defined vehicle companies include Robert Bosch GmbH (Germany), Nvidia Corporation (US), APTIV (Ireland), Valeo (France), Marelli Holdings Co., Ltd. (Japan), Continental AG (Germany), Volkswagen Group (Germany), Tesla (US), HARMAN International (US), BlackBerry Limited (US), among others.

Get 10% Free Customization on this Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=187205966

Browse Adjacent Market: Semiconductor and Electronics Market Research Reports &Consulting

Related Reports:

Automated Guided Vehicle Market by Type (Tow Vehicles, Unit Load Carriers, Forklift Trucks, Assembly Line Vehicles, Pallet Trucks), Navigation Technology (Laser Guidance, Magnetic Guidance, Vision Guidance), Industry, Region - Global Forecast to 2028

Automotive IoT Market Size, Share and Industry Growth Analysis Report by Offering (Hardware, Software, Services), by Connectivity Form Factor (Embedded, Tethered, Integrated), by Communication Type, by Application (Navigation, Telematics, Infotainment) and Global Growth Driver and Industry Forecast to 2028

Intelligent Transportation System Market by Offering (Hardware, Software), System (Advanced Traffic Management System, ITS-enabled Transportation Pricing System), Application (Roadways, Railways, Aviation, Marine) and Region - Global Forecast to 2028

IoT Node and Gateway Market Size, Share & Industry Growth Analysis Report by Hardware (Processor, Connectivity IC, Sensor, Memory Device, and Logic Device), End-use Application (Industrial and Consumer), Geography Global Growth Driver and Industry Forecast to 2027

In-Vehicle Networking Market by Vehicle Type (Passenger Car, LCV, HCV, and AGV), Connectivity Standards (CAN, LIN, FlexRay, RF, Ethernet, and MOST), Application, and Geography - Global Forecast to 2022

About MarketsandMarkets

MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report.

MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients.

Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes.

The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing.

Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry.

To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Contact:

Mr. Aashish Mehra

MarketsandMarkets INC.

630 Dundee Road

Suite 430

Northbrook, IL 60062

USA: +1-888-600-6441

Email: [email protected]

Visit Our Web Site: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/

Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/software-defined-vehicles-market.asp

Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/software-defined-vehicles.asp

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660509/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE MarketsandMarkets
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, September 14. President Ilham Aliyev enjoys great authority in Tajikistan, the Head of the Information Department of the Center for Strategic Studies (CSS) under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Zubaydullo Davlatov told Trend.

"President Ilham Aliyev is participating in our forum today as an honorary guest. This is a recognition of the merits of President Ilham Aliyev in strengthening relations with the countries of Central Asia, in particular, between Tajikistan and Azerbaijan," he said at the fifth Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia.

Davlatov noted that Azerbaijan and Tajikistan are friendly countries.

"We have a lot in common. In addition to historical ties, our countries also share interests in politics, economics, trade, and security. Both Azerbaijan and Tajikistan (in the South Caucasus and Central Asia) face terrorist threats. Moreover, both countries face challenges in the environmental sphere. Our relations are at a high level, but there is potential for further strengthening cooperation," he said.

Davlatov also highlighted the possible introduction of a visa for the countries participating in the Silk Road project, similar to the Schengen visa.

"This includes Azerbaijan and all the countries of Central Asia. This will significantly increase the trade turnover between these countries, as all economic and logistical barriers will be eliminated," he said.
LONDON , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a comprehensive research report by Brandessence Market Research (BMRC), "Sperm Bank Market Size, Share Outlook Growth By Top Company, Development, Application, Segmentation, Trends And Forecast 2022-2029."

Sperm banks are facilities responsible for collecting, storing sperms, and selling sperms which are gathered from sperm donors. The primary purpose of these banks is to provide sperm for artificial insemination or other assisted reproductive technologies, particularly for individuals or couples who are facing fertility challenges or wish to conceive using donor sperm.

The business intelligence report on this market offers a deep dive assessment of the top factors influencing the expansion trajectory of this industry. Growth drivers, restraints, challenges, and opportunities pertaining to this industry are well elaborated in this marketspace. It also offers a 360-degree outlook of the top market segments and geographical landscape with accurate growth projections of each region, country, and niche segments. Apart from that, it highlights each player operating in this industry with prime focus on their product portfolio, revenue, brand strategies, expansion, and other crucial aspects.

Key Takeaways:

Increasing rates of infertility, growing number of same-sex couples, and changing lifestyle trends are fuelling market growth.

Asia Pacific is projected to account for a substantial revenue share due to the increased cases of infertility and growing advancements in assisted reproductive technologies.

is projected to account for a substantial revenue share due to the increased cases of infertility and growing advancements in assisted reproductive technologies. Europe is poised to emerge as one of the fastest growing regions in this industry owing to rising healthcare expenditure and changing legal framework on sperm donation.

Sperm Bank Market is anticipated to garner significant returns over the forecast duration of 2022-2029.

Sperm Bank Market Report Scope:

Report Metric Details Base Year 2021 Study Period 2022-2029 Key Players/Companies FairFax Cryobank. Cryos International Sperm Bank, New England Cryogenic Center, Inc., Androcryos and Others

Get Free Sample PDF Brochure: https://brandessenceresearch.com/downloadSample/PostId/728

Elaborating The Key Trends and Dynamics Of Sperm Bank Market:

Increasing rates of infertility, growing number of same-sex couples, and changing lifestyle trends are the primary factors aiding the expansion of this business sphere. Favourable family planning policies, increased healthcare expenditure, along with growing R&D activities in the field are creating lucrative opportunities for this market space to prosper. Moreover, reduced stigma around sperm donation and widespread technological advancements in the field are adding momentum to the progression of this industry vertical.

Major Growth Drivers:

Rising cases on infertility- The world is witnessing an alarming rise in the number of infertile individuals (both male and female). This can be credited to the unhealthy lifestyle trends, genetic factors, and increase in reproductive age, among others. This has resulted in an escalating demand for reproductive technologies that can assist infertile couples to conceive. These factors together are stimulating the overall dynamics of this market space.

Reduced stigma around sperm donation- There was a time when sperm donation was stigmatised. People looked down upon sperm donors. But with increased literacy rates and widespread developments in various verticals, individuals are changing their thought process about the same. Sperm donation can not only help infertile couples to fulfil their dreams of having a child but also is a boon for same-sex couples. This in turn is creating an upward trend in this industry.

Challenges:

Shortage of donors- Despite the reduced stigma around sperm donation, there is still a shortfall of sperm donors across the globe. Ethical and moral concerns, taboo in some societies, and absence of proper sperm banks in underdeveloped or developing nations are making men reluctant to go for sperm donation. This is hindering the remuneration scope of this business vertical.

Competitive landscape of Sperm Bank Market:

FairFax Cryobank

Cryos International Sperm Bank

New England Cryogenic Center, Inc.

Androcryos

Others

Browse In-depth Market Research Report (300 Pages) on Sperm Bank Market:

https://brandessenceresearch.com/healthcare/sperm-bank-market-size

Segmental Assessment:

By donors, the known donors segment is poised to amass notable gains over 2022-2029. This is due to the mandates made by various governments wherein donors are required to reveal their identities so as to ensure their medical or behavioural background.

Geographical Analysis & Landscape:

Asia Pacific Sperm Bank Market:

Asia Pacific is projected to account for a substantial revenue share. This is due to the increased cases of infertility, growing advancements in assisted reproductive technologies, and rising disposable income levels. Moreover, surging R&D activities in the field, rise in the number of IVF centers, and growing rates of same-gender relationships are fuelling market growth.

Europe:

Europe is poised to emerge as one of the fastest growing regions in this industry owing to rising healthcare expenditure, changing legal framework on sperm donation, and unhealthy lifestyle trends of the masses. Besides, present of prominent players and reduced stigma on the same are adding traction to the development of this regional industry.

Opportunities In This Market:

Same-sex marriage legalization- Many countries are legalizing same-sex marriages as it is a basic human right. It is a fact that same-gender couples cannot produce children biologically and therefore seek help of assisted reproductive technologies. Sperm donation can help such couples to fulfil their dreams of raising a family together. This in turn is creating an upward trend in the market.

Major Developments in Sperm Bank Market:

Acquisitions:

In June 2022, Axcel's European Sperm Bank was acquired by a private equity investor named Perwyn.

Porter's Five Forces Analysis:

Threat of New Entrants:

The threat of new entrants to the sperm bank market is relatively low. Establishing a sperm bank requires substantial investments in infrastructure, equipment, and personnel. Additionally, stringent regulatory requirements and ethical considerations make it challenging for new entrants to quickly establish credibility and gain the trust of potential donors and recipients. Existing sperm banks may also benefit from economies of scale and established networks, making it difficult for new players to compete effectively.

Bargaining Power of Suppliers:

The bargaining power of suppliers in the sperm bank market is moderate. Suppliers, in this context, refer to the sperm donors. While there is a demand for donor sperm, sperm banks often have screening processes to select qualified donors, which could limit the number of available suppliers. However, advancements in donor recruitment strategies and the increasing acceptance of sperm donation could potentially increase the pool of willing donors, moderating the bargaining power of suppliers.

Bargaining Power of Buyers:

The bargaining power of buyers, which includes individuals or couples seeking donor sperm, can vary. In some regions or countries with limited access to fertility services, the demand for donor sperm may outstrip supply, giving sperm banks some leverage in setting prices. However, in areas with multiple sperm banks and fertility clinics, buyers may have more options and negotiating power. Additionally, the level of demand for specific donor characteristics could influence buyer bargaining power for particular sperm samples.

Threat of Substitutes:

The threat of substitutes in the sperm bank market is relatively low. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) that utilize donor sperm, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI), offer specialized solutions for individuals or couples facing fertility challenges. While natural conception is always an option, ART remains the primary alternative for many individuals seeking donor sperm to conceive.

Competitive Rivalry:

The competitive rivalry in the sperm bank market can vary depending on the geographical location and the number of established sperm banks in a particular area. In regions with limited sperm banks, there may be less direct competition. However, in areas with several well-established sperm banks, competition may intensify, leading to competitive pricing and marketing strategies to attract donors and recipients.

Related Blogs:

Investigating AI's Potential to Transform Radiology: Applications in Medical Imaging

AI Healthcare Solutions: Addressing Ethical Considerations: Insights and Strategiesm

Top Death Causes Associated with Cancer

A COVID-19 Breakthrough Therapy with Emergency Use Authorization is paxlovid.

Monkeypox and the Top 5 Monkeypox Research Companies

The Power of Tech Innovation: How Technology is Revolutionizing the Entire Drug Discovery Sector

Causes, Treatment, Research, and Leading Companies Fighting Lung Cancer

Money Matters: Increasing Clinical Trial Revenue Strategies by Addressing CRO Challenges

Miebo: A Promising New Approach to Treating Dry Eye Disease

Qalsody: A Ground-Breaking Medicine from Biogen Inc.

How Can Improving Clinical Trial Ancillary Management Improve Research Results?

Introducing the Monkeypox Disease Global Market: Seizing Opportunities for a Healthier Future

Overcoming Limitations by Showcasing Hope in the Lupus Disease Field

Needle-Free Diabetes Care: Diagnostic Advances and Market Shift

Understanding the Maze: Manufacturing Obstacles for Early Pancreatic Cancer Detection Kit Manufacturers

Changing Pneumonia Treatment Options: Creating the Future driving market expansion

A Game-Changer for Ovarian Cancer Treatment and Patient Care: PARP Inhibitors

Predictive Analytics Powered by AI: Unlocking Insights for the Future of Healthcare

Natural Language Processing (NLP) in Healthcare: Unlocking the Potential

Posluma: A Targeted Oncology Breakthrough in Prostate Cancer Imaging

About Us:

Brandessence Market Research & Consulting Pvt ltd.

Brandessence Market Research publishes market research reports & business insights produced by highly qualified and experienced industry analysts. Our research reports are available in a wide range of industry verticals including aviation, food & beverage, healthcare, ICT, Construction, Chemicals and lot more. Brand Essence Market Research report will be best fit for senior executives, business development managers, marketing managers, consultants, CEOs, CIOs, COOs, and Directors, governments, agencies, organizations and Ph.D. Students. We have a delivery center in Pune, India and our sales office is in London.

Follow Us: LinkedIn

Contact:

Mr. Vishal Sawant

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

Corporate Sales: +44-2038074155

Asia Office: +917447409162

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1392316/BEMR_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Brandessence Market Research And Consulting Private Limited
TOKYO, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- StarCharge, a global pioneer in sustainable energy solutions, is excited to announce its participation in this year's N+ Exhibition in Japan, booth number N-08. StarCharge's participation reaffirms its dedication to the evolution of the energy landscape through innovative and sustainable technology.

StarCharge Booth in Japan N+ Sustainability Show

The N+ Exhibition, globally recognizes for showcasing the cutting edge of renewable energy technology and solutions, provides the perfect platform for StarCharge to share the significant potential of its wide range of charger and energy products and technologies.

At the exhibition booth, StarCharge will present its full lineup of products, including AC chargers, DC chargers, Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) chargers, and energy management and cloud services. There will be opportunities to directly inspect these solutions, understand their functionality, and imagine their potential in various application scenarios.

StarCharge's Chief Officer said, "StarCharge's technologies are designed to revolutionize how we use energy. From daily electric vehicle owners to businesses looking to transition their energy usage to a more sustainable model, our solutions are designed for everyone."

In addition to product presentations, StarCharge's booth will also host expert-led talks and interactive sessions to further enlighten attendees about the potential of sustainable energy. Visitors are encouraged to join these discussions, contribute ideas, and share their own experiences.

Through its presence at the N+ Exhibition, StarCharge continues to strengthen its position as a leader in green energy solutions, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to a greener, more sustainable future. We invite everyone to visit our booth to discover how we can collectively evolve towards a future powered by renewable, efficient energy.

About StarCharge:

StarCharge is a world-leading provider of charging solutions and energy management systems, dedicated to driving the transition to sustainable energy. With a diverse range of innovative, high-quality products, StarCharge is pushing boundaries and evolving the energy landscape for a greener future.

SOURCE StarCharge
NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The steel casting market size is expected to grow by USD 6.59 billion from 2022 to 2027. In addition, the growth momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of 4.35% during the forecast period, according to Technavio. Growing construction activities are notably driving the steel casting market. However, factors such as Environmental concerns related to the casting industry may impede market growth. The market is segmented by Application (Automotive and transportation, Construction and infrastructure, Mining, Power, and Others), Product (Sand casting, Investment casting, Die casting, and Centrifugal casting), and Geography (APAC, North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America). We provide a detailed analysis of 20 companies operating in the steel casting market including ArcelorMittal SA, Columbia Steel Casting Co Inc., Dandong Fuding Engineering Co. Ltd., Doosan Corp., Ferralloy Inc., Fortune Foundries Pvt. Ltd., Fundiciones Del Estanda SA, Goodwin PLC, Harrison Steel Castings Co., Hitachi Ltd., Hyundai Motor Co., Isgec Heavy Engineering Ltd., Kobe Steel Ltd., Maynard Steel Casting Co., Milwaukee Precision Casting Inc., Nucor Corp., Peekay Steel Castings Pvt. Ltd., SIGMA Engineered Solutions, Stainless Foundry and Engineering Inc., and The Japan Steel Works Ltd. The report offers an up-to-date analysis of the market, and to know the exact growth variance and the Y-O-Y growth rate, Request a FREE Sample Report.

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Steel Casting Market 2023-2027

Steel Casting Market 2023-2027: Company Analysis

SIGMA Engineered Solutions - The company offers steel casting products such as ferrous and nonferrous casting through its subsidiary Avalon Castings. This report provides a full list of key companies, their strategies, and the latest developments. Buy Now for detailed company information

Steel Casting Market 2023-2027: Segmentation

Application

The automotive and transportation segment will be the largest contributor to market growth during the forecast period. The demand for manufacturing aircraft components and turbine engine parts is expected to increase. Hence, the steel casting market is expected to experience significant growth in the automotive and transportation segment during the forecast period.

segment will be the largest contributor to market growth during the forecast period. The demand for manufacturing aircraft components and turbine engine parts is expected to increase. Hence, the steel casting market is expected to experience significant growth in the automotive and transportation segment during the forecast period. Other segments include Product (sand casting, investment casting, die casting, and centrifugal casting)

Geography

APAC will contribute 49% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View FREE PDF Sample Report

Steel Casting Market 2023-2027: Key Highlights

Historic Market Size 2017-2021

CAGR of the market during 2023-2027

Detailed information on factors that will assist steel casting market growth during the next five years

Estimation of the market size and its contribution to the parent market

Forecasts on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the steel casting market

Analysis of the competitive landscape and detailed information on companies

Comprehensive details of factors that will impede the growth of steel casting market companies

Related Reports:

The Global Electrical Steel Market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.56% between 2022 and 2027 with the market size forecast to increase by USD 18,273.08 million. This electrical steel market report extensively covers market segmentation by Type, End-user, and Geography. APAC is estimated to contribute 74% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

The TMT steel bar market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.34% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 84.39 billion. This TMT steel bar market report extensively covers market segmentation by end-user (residential, commercial, and infrastructure), grade Type (Fe 415, Fe 500 and 500d, Fe 550 and 550d, Fe 600, and others), and geography (APAC, Europe, North America, Middle East and Africa, and South America).

ToC:

Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market Sizing

Historic Market Sizes

Five Forces Analysis

Market Segmentation by Application

Market Segmentation by Product

Market Segmentation by Geography

Customer Landscape

Geographic Landscape

Drivers, Challenges, & Trends

Company Landscape

Company Analysis

Appendix

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com

SOURCE Technavio
WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Surgo Health , a technology company that aims to revolutionize healthcare by understanding people's behavior at the individual level, today announced its CEO and Co-founder Dr. Sema Sgaier has been selected to join Springboard Enterprises 2023 Digital Health Innovation Program Cohort.

This year's program will unite founders and executives from 9 digital health companies to participate in an entrepreneurial bootcamp and extensive workshop series, and get matched with a team of strategic advisors who will guide them through their next stage of growth. The full list of this year's cohorts can be found on Springboard Enterprises' website .

"I am eager to dive into the trenches with Springboard as a proud member of their 2023 Digital Health Innovation Program Cohort," said Dr. Sema Sgaier, CEO & Co-Founder of Surgo Health. "Having the opportunity to join hands with eight other brilliant women leaders who are paving the path for entrepreneurs in the digital health space will surely be an exhilarating, transformative experience. I cannot wait to take full advantage of every learning opportunity presented and channel newfound insights into our impactful mission at Surgo Health."

Springboard Enterprises is an organization dedicated to accelerating the growth of entrepreneurial companies led by women through access to essential resources and a global community of experts. Springboard's Digital Health Innovation Program combines high-value events and workshops with an impactful community. Selected participants are matched with a personal advisory team who provide the relevant expertise and connections in support of women transforming the digital health industry.

Springboard's 2023 Digital Health Innovation Program bootcamp will kick off later this month, with more events to follow.

About Springboard Enterprises

We are a leading network of industry experts, investors, and innovators dedicated to building companies at scale led by women who are transforming industries in technology, life sciences and healthcare. Since 2000, over 890+ Springboard portfolio companies seeking investment and human capital for product development and expansion have created over $39.1B in value. With 225 exits to strategic acquirers, 27 IPOs, and 10 Unicorns, Springboard Entrepreneurs are transforming industries. Spingboardenterprises.org

About Surgo Health

Surgo Health is a technology company and Public Benefit Corporation (PBC) that aims to revolutionize the effectiveness of healthcare by understanding people's behavior at the individual level. Surgo Health believes that a complete understanding of what drives people's behavior  and how their context impacts them  is critical to ensure every person lives a healthy life. The company's proprietary data and AI-novel technology platform creates the most comprehensive sociobehavioral profile of every person in every place, with products and solutions that can help its pharma and payer customers drive performance while improving outcomes, reducing cost and addressing inequities across the healthcare ecosystem. To learn more, visit https://www.surgohealth.com/ .

CONTACT:

Kayleigh Winslow

[email protected]

SOURCE Surgo Health
Improved nurse satisfaction and retention cited by CNOs as top reason to implement virtual nursing solutions, AvaSure-Joslin Insight survey reveals

BELMONT, Mich., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AvaSure, the market leader in acute virtual sitting and virtual nursing solutions, announced the results of a primary market research survey revealing that the majority of chief nursing officers (CNOs) view virtual nursing as integral to care delivery models in acute patient care.

The Virtual Nursing Insight Survey of 789 health professionals also found that:

CNOs believe that the three most important metrics for measuring the success of virtual nursing programs are improving nurse satisfaction and retention (86%), improving workload burden for current staff (82%), and improving patient experience (81%).

CNOs see numerous use cases in which virtual nursing can deliver a positive impact in acute patient care, with the most frequently cited responses as discharge (59%), admissions (53%), patient education (51%), expert clinical oversight (35%), and rounding (24%).

Most CNOs feel there is an opportunity to recruit nurses who are either unable or unwilling to work at the bedside to work as a virtual nurse.

"The survey results underscore the importance to health systems of using technology to augment front-line staff amid a climate of unsustainable costs and labor shortages," said Lisbeth Votruba, MSN, RN, chief clinical officer, AvaSure. "Virtual nursing technology extends the reach of bedside nurses, giving them more time for direct, hands-on patient care and resulting in reduced costs for health systems."

Nursing represents a significant staffing crisis for hospitals worldwide. A total of 13 million nurses will need to be replaced globally within the coming years, according to a report from the International Council of Nurses, a shortage that could result in a "global health emergency." As a result, an increasing number of nurse leaders are interested in exploring virtual nursing technology, which uses mobile audio and video monitoring devices to connect bedside staff to a remote care support team.

The Virtual Nursing Insight Survey was conducted online within the U.S. by Joslin Insight on behalf of AvaSure between April 10 and 18, 2023. The survey received responses from 789 healthcare professionals primarily working in acute care settings, including nurse leaders, managers, educators and key decision makers.

To see the full survey report, click here.

About AvaSure

AvaSure provides the leading hospital virtual care platform to systems with nursing and staffing shortages that are challenged to significantly reduce labor costs without sacrificing patient health outcomes. Recognized by KLAS Research as the leader in reducing the cost of patient care, AvaSure is the pioneer in providing best-in-class, video-based AvaSure TeleSitter and TeleNurse solutions. As a trusted partner of more than 1,000 hospitals, AvaSure combines remote patient monitors, virtual nurses and other providers on a single platform to enhance clinical care without placing any additional burdens on existing staff. To learn more about AvaSure visit www.avasure.com.

About Joslin Insight

Joslin Insight operates as a healthcare market strategy consultancy. Leveraging unbiased qualitative and quantitative research, the company provides market intelligence and real-time data analytics for leading healthcare organizations. Their research has been featured in numerous media outlets, including Forbes, TIME, the New York Times, The Washington Post, The Atlantic, and Bloomberg News, as well as by the United States Senate Committee on Finance, the United States Surgeon General's Advisory, and the White House COVID-19 Task Force.

Media Contact:

Marcia Rhodes, Amendola Communications

[email protected]

SOURCE AvaSure
To unlock the full potential of their Gen Z employees, employers should focus on creating a safe environment, help them develop their soft skills, and facilitate more peer-to-peer and independent learning

OSLO, Norway, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kahoot! , the global learning and engagement platform company, today unveiled its inaugural Kahoot! ZetaPulse Gen Z Workforce Study , revealing that 90% of Gen Z knowledge workers are facing social discomfort  or anxiety in the workplace. The survey highlights a significant 35% of Gen Zers facing social anxiety on a near-daily basis, while a mere 10% claim to never encounter it.

"All employers are looking for the key to unlock the full potential of their workforce. This study validates that to help their Gen Z employees bring their A-game to work, employers need to place soft skills advancement at the top of their priorities list while also experimenting with innovative, quick and real approaches to communication and training which are mindful of their social discomfort," said James Micklethwait, VP of Kahoot! At Work.

Gen Z's Tongue-Tied Tendencies Put Employers, Industries to the Test

According to the survey, 23% of Gen Zers experience social anxiety when interacting with customers. Moreover, the data revealed that 44% are uneasy or nervous to deliver presentations at work - 38% of Gen Z respondents shared their unease in voicing their opinion during a meeting.

To address these apprehensions, respondents indicated the pivotal role of a non-judgmental, safe space workspace, with 53% viewing it as a strong incentive for active participation. Notably, women (44%) particularly value advanced notice if they are asked to contribute their POV in meetings or presentations in contrast to men (34%).

The study also pinpointed the most affected sectors, positioning Education, Finance, and Construction as the top industries for socially anxious knowledge workers, with the Professional Services and Manufacturing industries showcasing the lowest rates of social anxiety.

Soft Skills Training is Gen Z's New Manifesto

Soft skills training can play a significant role in creating a safe and inclusive workspace. Hence, Gen Z's SOS plea for soft skills training resonates as a critical necessity in today's professional landscape. The survey underscores this demand, placing soft skills advancement (communication, leadership, and negotiation skills) at the top Gen Z's immediate employer priorities list (42%). Notably, this resonates more profoundly among women (48%) than men (36%). Peer-based learning emerges as the second significant area for skill enhancement (36%), closely followed by dedicated work time for self-directed learning (34%).

"All organizations are full of hidden talents and knowledge. It's time for employers to tap into this valuable resource by facilitating peer-to-peer learning and encouraging their Gen Z employees to create engaging, interactive learning sessions, presentations, or even courses to challenge their team members and share their knowledge and skills," said James Micklethwait.

Academic Shortcomings Now Command Employer Intervention

While education has laid the groundwork for Gen Z's skill development, the ever-widening gaps in essential workplace competencies now command the attention of employers. To help, Gen Z identifies the top five areas in which their educational experiences fell short, shedding light on the precise areas that now demand employer intervention:

Networking (32%), emotional intelligence (35%), conflict resolution (35%), stress management (39%) and creativity (39%).

On a more positive note, critical thinking (51%) and time management (50%) were found to be the most highly honed skills in school, highlighting areas where education has made a meaningful impact for employers.

Gen Z Wants a Corporate Training Glow-Up

While 36% of Gen Z expressed high confidence in their employers' efforts to equip them with the essential, future-forward skills required for success - for the remaining respondents, the message is clear: employers need to step up their game. Gen Z didn't hold back when it came to assessing their employer, with 32% asserting that their company's culture fails to align with the values of their generation, prompting a necessary introspection. When it comes to training and development specifically, Gen Z provides a roadmap for employers for a more engaging future:

Showcase authentic experiences through employee-generated content to foster community (31%)

Incorporate humor and comedy into learning (31%)

Deliver bite-sized microlearning opportunities (29%)

Leverage popular memes for shareable, humorous content (28%)

Offer immersive offline experiences, bridging the online-offline gap (27%)

Utilize platforms like TikTok and real influencers for relatable, authentic messaging (27% - notably crucial among Black respondents)

Gen Z is Riding the AI Wave to Career and Skill Victory

As Gen Z knowledge workers embrace AI in the workforce, questions arise about its equitable usage. The survey highlights Gen Z's utilization of AI in career development and support, revealing that:

27% harness AI for writing assistance, marking it as the top use among Gen Z, demonstrating the prevalent reliance on tools like ChatGPT.

25% leverage AI for learning new skills, indicating a proactive approach to skill enhancement.

20% employ AI for verbal communication development, recognizing its value in refining this essential soft skill competency.

However, the study also unveils a significant 24% who don't utilize AI at all, with noteworthy gender disparities - 31% of women abstain compared to 17% of men. Surprisingly, 32% of Professional Services knowledge workers don't use ChatGPT at all, much higher than the average. Only 19% of Finance and 16% of Education Gen Z knowledge workers don't use it at all.

About the Kahoot! ZetaPulse Report

This survey was conducted online within the United States by market-research consultancy Researchscape on behalf of Kahoot! from July 18 to August 2, 2023. There were 1,015 Gen Z respondents to the survey. Click here to download the full report .

About Kahoot!

Kahoot! is on a mission to make learning awesome! We want to empower everyone, including children, students, and employees to unlock their full learning potential. Our learning platform makes it easy for any individual or corporation to create, share, and host learning sessions that drive compelling engagement. Launched in 2013, Kahoot!'s vision is to build the leading learning platform in the world. Since launch, Kahoot! has hosted hundreds of millions of learning sessions with over 9 billion participants (non-unique) in more than 200 countries and regions. The Kahoot! Group includes Clever, the leading US K-12 EdTech learning platform, together with the learning apps DragonBox, Poio, Drops, Actimo, Motimate, and Whiteboard.fi. The Kahoot! Group is headquartered in Oslo, Norway with offices in the US, the UK, France, Finland, Estonia, Denmark, Spain and Poland. Kahoot! is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker KAHOT. To learn more, visit us at kahoot.com. Let's play!

Media Contact for Kahoot!:

[email protected]

[email protected]

SOURCE Kahoot!
The festival will transport visitors to Iceland through a dozen free events inspired by, and in celebration of, the best of Icelandic culture.

SEATTLE, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Taste of Iceland 2023 , organized by Inspired by Iceland , arrives in Seattle, Wash., Thursday, October 5 to Saturday, October 7. Iceland's capital city, Reykjavik, is a Sister City to Seattle. The three-day cultural festival celebrates the land of fire and ice with more than a dozen events across the city showcasing the best of Icelandic culture, including food and beverage, music, literature, film, art, wellness, and more.

Taste of Iceland celebrates and shares the traditions and culture of Iceland with the people of North America. In partnership with local businesses and Taste of Iceland's official partners, featured events will be hosted at KEXP , The Carlile Room , Life on Mars , Hometeam , Majestic Bay Theatres , AETHER , and the National Nordic Museum .

Most events are free and open to the public, event tickets are required, and guests are encouraged to arrive promptly to guarantee entry. Tickets are available on the Taste of Iceland Website . Reservations are required for the prix-fixe Icelandic dinner through the Taste of Iceland Website .

FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

Daily October 5-7

Icelandic Menu at The Carlile Room: October 5-7 , starting at 4:30 PM , Michael Webster , Chef at The Carlile Room , in collaboration with Blue Lagoon Iceland Head Chef Arnar Pall Sigrunarson, will prepare a pop-up menu inspired by Icelandic flavors and ingredients, including seafood, lamb, and skyr. Reservations are available through the Taste of Iceland website.

, starting at , , Chef at , in collaboration with Head Chef Arnar Pall Sigrunarson, will prepare a pop-up menu inspired by Icelandic flavors and ingredients, including seafood, lamb, and skyr. Reservations are available through the H/HI: Designing Friendship: Hae/Hi presents "Saman/Together," a design exhibition featuring objects and experiences that encourage people to interact, work, play, or relax together. With the shared objective of creating dialogues between their respective creative communities, "Saman/Together" features 18 interdisciplinary design studios from Reykjavik and Seattle . Each project is a collaboration between Iceland and Seattle -based studios, making both the process and results an expression of what together means. Open October 5 from 5-7 PM and October 6-7 from 12-5 PM at Hometeam . Click here for more information.

Hae/Hi presents "Saman/Together," a design exhibition featuring objects and experiences that encourage people to interact, work, play, or relax together. With the shared objective of creating dialogues between their respective creative communities, "Saman/Together" features 18 interdisciplinary design studios from Reykjavik and . Each project is a collaboration between and -based studios, making both the process and results an expression of what together means. Open from and from at . for more information. Wheel of Prizes Presented by Icelandair: October 5-7 at various events during the Taste of Iceland festival in Seattle , select participants will have the opportunity to win various prizes, including a trip for two to Iceland! Click here for more information. October 5 , 6:50 PM at KEXP , before Reykjavik Calling: Iceland Airwaves Off Venue concert October 6 , 3:50 PM at Life on Mars , before Icelandic Cocktail Class with Reyka Vodka October 7 , 12:50 PM , at National Nordic Museum , before 66North Fireside Chat

October 5-7 at various events during the festival in , select participants will have the opportunity to win various prizes, including a trip for two to Iceland! for more information.

Icelandair is also offering special sales on roundtrip flights to Iceland from Seattle. Flights booked here for travel dates between October 22, 2023  February 29, 2024 will start at $499. Learn more here .

Thursday, October 5

Reykjavik Calling: Iceland Airwaves Off-Venue: The City of Reykjavik, in collaboration with Iceland Airwaves and KEXP, will host a free concert featuring Icelandic artists Daniel Hjalmtysson and GROA. Daniel Hjalmtysson released his debut single, "Birds" (KEXP SOTD), in early 2020, introducing his dark, neo-goth, and atmospheric approach to alternative rock music. In 2022, he released his full-length album, "Labyrinthia," followed by two European tours (NL, BE, RO). Bursting into the global punk scene in 2018, GROA has thrilled audiences worldwide by embracing unruly freedom. The trio comprises sisters Hrabba (drums and vocals) and Karo (lead vocals, guitar, and synth) and their childhood friend Fria (bass and vocals). KEXP DJ Kevin Cole will co-host the evening with DJ Hermigervill, a longtime heavyweight of the Icelandic music scene. 7 PM at KEXP . Click here for more information.

Friday, October 6

Icelandic Cocktail Class with Reyka Vodka: Join a free Icelandic cocktail class where Reyka Vodka's brand ambassador and mixologist, Jeffrey Naples , will shake up some tasty Iceland -inspired cocktails and teach attendees how to make these drinks at home. DJ Hermigervill will welcome guests with his signature style, synth music, and vegan tape loops. 4 PM at Life on Mars . Click here for more information.

Join a free Icelandic cocktail class where Reyka Vodka's brand ambassador and mixologist, , will shake up some tasty -inspired cocktails and teach attendees how to make these drinks at home. DJ Hermigervill will welcome guests with his signature style, synth music, and vegan tape loops. at . for more information. Beautiful Beings Film Screening and Director Q&A: Enjoy a free screening of Beautiful Beings, Iceland's official submission to the 2023 Academy Awards for Best International Feature Film, followed by a Q&A with director Gumundur Arnar Gumundsson. 7 PM at Majestic Bay Theatres . Click here for more information.

Saturday, October 7

Secrets of the Sprakkar with Eliza Reid , First Lady of Iceland , with Margaret Willson : Join Eliza Reid, the First Lady of Iceland and co-founder of the Iceland Writers Retreat, as she discusses her critically acclaimed book, Secrets of the Sprakkar: Iceland's Extraordinary Women and How They Are Changing the World, in-conversation with Margaret Willson , author of Woman, Captain, Rebel: The Extraordinary True Story of a Daring Icelandic Sea Captain . Both books will be available for purchase. 10:30 AM at the National Nordic Museum . Click here for more information.

: Join Eliza Reid, the First Lady of and co-founder of the Iceland Writers Retreat, as she discusses her critically acclaimed book, in-conversation with , author of . Both books will be available for purchase. at the . for more information. Elemental Sound Bath with Blue Lagoon Iceland and Icelandic Provisions Skyr Bar: Join Icelandic energy healer Josa Goodlife for an hour of inner peace and healing meditation. Sound Bath attendees will receive a complimentary Blue Lagoon Iceland yoga mat, an Icelandic Provisions beanie, an Icelandair blanket, Icelandic Glacial water, and a Blue Lagoon Iceland Skincare gift. After the Sound Bath, guests are invited to an Icelandic Provisions Skyr Bar. 11 AM at AETHER . Click here for more information.

Join Icelandic energy healer Josa Goodlife for an hour of inner peace and healing meditation. Sound Bath attendees will receive a complimentary Blue Lagoon Iceland yoga mat, an Icelandic Provisions beanie, an Icelandair blanket, Icelandic Glacial water, and a Blue Lagoon Iceland Skincare gift. After the Sound Bath, guests are invited to an Icelandic Provisions Skyr Bar. 11 AM at . for more information. 66North Fireside Chat: Join renowned adventure photographer and 66North Brand Ambassador Chris Burkard on a journey through Iceland as he shares his experiences and stunning images. The National Nordic Museum will host the photo exhibition titled "50 times and counting, because once wasn't enough!" Burkard's photos capture the essence of Iceland and the stories of his incredible travels throughout the country. Burkard is renowned for capturing stunning landscapes and moments of bliss, adventure-seeking lifestyle, movement, and intuitive light-working capabilities. The exhibition will showcase a selection of his finest work captured in Iceland . 3 PM at the National Nordic Museum . Click here for more information.

Taste of Iceland is an annual festival that celebrates Iceland's vibrant culture. The festival is organized by Inspired by Iceland , which promotes Iceland and Icelandic products. It is presented in partnership and with support from Icelandair , Visit Reykjavik , Icelandic Seafood , Business Iceland , Reyka Vodka , Blue Lagoon Iceland , 66North , Icelandic Provisions , Icelandic Lamb , Icelandic Glacial, Landsvirkjun , and Isavia Keflavik International Airport . Taste of Iceland's 2023 North America events have previously been held in Washington D.C., New York, NY, and Chicago, IL.

For more information about Inspired by Iceland and Taste of Iceland, visit www.inspiredbyiceland.com .

To learn more about Business Iceland, visit www.businessiceland.is .

For media inquiries or to attend Taste of Iceland events, contact [email protected] .

CONTACT: Robin Crawford

703.966.7616 | [email protected]

SOURCE Taste of Iceland
Beginning mid-October, The Economist's full slate of award-winning podcasts will be available exclusively to subscribers of The Economist and Economist Podcasts+

LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Economist announced today that it is launching Economist Podcasts+, a new subscription to build on the success of its award-winning shows and support future growth. A subscription will include exclusive access to Boss Class, a new limited series on management; The Weekend Intelligence, a new Saturday edition of The Economist's popular show on world news; as well as The Economist's entire collection of weekly podcasts on business, science and technology, China and American politics.

"With our podcast audience doubling in the past three years to 5m monthly unique listeners, audio has become our fastest-growing platform and has proven to be an important way to bring our journalism to new and diverse audiences," said Bob Cohn, president, The Economist. "We think the new shows and features that are part of Economist Podcasts+ are a great addition to our strong portfolio."

"The Economist has always been known for its global reporting and in-depth analysis," said John Prideaux, executive director of podcasts and US editor. "On our podcasts, our journalists help listeners make sense of the big news shaping the world, from Xi Jinping's global ambitions and the future of Russia to American politics and the impact of artificial intelligence. Podcasting allows us to take a lot of the qualities that make The Economist special and bring them to a wider audience. We're looking forward to making some ambitious new series for Economist Podcasts+."

Launching in mid-October, the new service will cost $/4.90 per month or $/49 per year. Pre-orders go on sale today, and customers subscribing between now and launch will receive 50% off an annual subscription. Current subscribers to The Economist will enjoy all of the benefits of Economist Podcasts+ at no additional cost. The weekday episodes of The Economist's flagship programme, The Intelligence, will remain available to non-subscribers, as will sample episodes of weekly shows and limited series podcasts.

"The decision to create a subscription tier for podcasts is the logical result of our approach to our business across digital and print: we produce premium journalism for subscribers around the world and make it available at a fair price," said Cohn. "We think podcasting ought to follow that model, and we believe this initiative will enable further investment in our audio offerings."

Boss Class, a new podcast hosted by the author of The Economist's leadership and management column, Bartleby, will be the first original limited series for subscribers. Andrew Palmer, the host of Boss Class, will bring the wry sensibility of the popular newspaper column as he takes on the future of management with CEOs, anthropologists and experts on everything from hiring to hybrid work.

Subscribers will also have exclusive access to The Weekend Intelligence, the Saturday edition of The Economist's weekday public affairs show, The Intelligence. Featuring narrative storytelling and deeper reporting from Economist writers around the world, the weekend episode will, like the weekday shows, be hosted by Ore Ogunbiyi and Jason Palmer.

Since producing its first podcast in 2006, The Economist has built a stable of shows that showcase the breadth and originality of its journalism. Today the portfolio includes:

The Prince was a finalist for the 2023 National Magazine Award in Podcasting and the winner of the Human Rights Press Award for multimedia and Society of Publishers in Asia (SOPA) Award for best audio reporting. The British Podcasting Awards has recognised The Economist for Best Podcast Network; The Intelligence for Best Current Affairs Podcast and Best Daily Podcast, and Money Talks for Best Business Podcast. Babbage was named the Best Science Podcast by the Association of British Science Writers in 2022.

To learn more about Economist Podcasts+ and to sign up for the 50% inaugural subscriber promotion, visit: https://economist.com/podcastsplus.

About The Economist (economist.com)

With rigorous reporting, in-depth analysis and global perspective, The Economist explains today's most important events and seeks to discern the trends that will shape tomorrow. In addition to the weekly print edition, The Economist publishes its journalism daily through its website, app, podcasts, 15 newsletters, short- and long-form video and Espresso, an app for concise global news. The Economist has 1.2 million subscribers. More than 60m people follow The Economist across Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTok and Threads.

SOURCE The Economist
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. The participation of President Ilham Aliyev in the 5th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia demonstrates the sincere desire of our peoples for comprehensive strengthening of the age-old bonds of friendship and mutual understanding, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said at the 5th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, Trend reports.

"I would like to extend a special welcome to our esteemed guest, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev. The participation of the leader of fraternal Azerbaijan convincingly demonstrates the sincere desire of our peoples for the comprehensive strengthening of the age-old bonds of friendship and mutual understanding," he emphasized.

"I'm confident that today's summit will indeed be significant and will determine the future of our multifaceted cooperation," the President of Kazakhstan added.

The initiative to hold consultative meetings of the heads of state of Central Asia was put forward by President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev in 2017. The first meeting was held in Kazakhstan, the second in Uzbekistan, the third in Turkmenistan, and the fourth in Kyrgyzstan.
Cybersecurity leader brings global threat intelligence to industry consortium

DALLAS, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Global cybersecurity leader Trend Micro Incorporated (TYO: 4704; TSE: 4704) is proud to announce its membership in a new industry alliance, the Hacking Policy Council, dedicated to advocating for security research and testing among policymakers.

Brian Gorenc, VP of threat research at Trend: "It is a true honor for Trend and for myself personally to collaborate with a council of the nation's leading experts in security research and vulnerability disclosure. We have closely followed the evolving cybersecurity landscape outside of the U.S. for the past two decades, and we look forward to using this knowledge to inform policies across the country. There's no better way to help achieve our mission of making the digital connected world safer."

The non-profit Hacking Policy Council is dedicated to advocating for security research and testing among policymakers. Post this

The Hacking Policy Council was founded by the non-profit Center for Cybersecurity Policy and Law alongside Google, Intel, and other industry names. The Council reinforces the importance of a collective effort to advocate for cybersecurity best practices.

Harley Geiger, coordinator of the Hacking Policy Council: "We are thrilled to welcome Trend as the newest member of the Hacking Policy Council. Our mission is to champion safer and more transparent technology through responsible hacking practices. With Trend's significant expertise joining the Council's leaders in vulnerability disclosure, penetration testing, and security research, we are poised to make even greater strides. Together we will continue to ensure that ethical hacking and vulnerability management thrive within a supportive legal and policy framework, benefiting consumers, enterprises, and society at large."

The Council's mission is to raise awareness among policymakers of the importance of best practices that protect and facilitate vulnerability disclosure and management, penetration testing, ethical hacking, and related disciplines.

Trend brings formidable experience in this space through its Zero Day Initiative (ZDI), the world's largest vendor-agnostic bug bounty program, and a leading voice in ethical disclosure practices. The ZDI has been vocal in calling for more transparency from vendors in vulnerability management and higher quality in their security updates to improve protection for technology end users.

Trend is also noted for decades of global threat research and insight into the ever-changing exploit marketplaceintelligence which will be invaluable as it supports the Hacking Policy Council's ambitious aims.

Joining the Hacking Policy Council further cements Trend's commitment to enhancing global cybersecurity and improving U.S. policy to make the country a safer place to exchange digital information.

To find out more about the Hacking Policy Council, please visit: https://www.centerforcybersecuritypolicy.org/

About Trend

Trend Micro, a global cybersecurity leader, helps make the world safe for exchanging digital information. Fueled by decades of security expertise, global threat research, and continuous innovation, Trend's cybersecurity platform protects hundreds of thousands of organizations and millions of individuals across clouds, networks, devices, and endpoints. As a leader in cloud and enterprise cybersecurity, the platform delivers a powerful range of advanced threat defense techniques optimized for environments like AWS, Microsoft, and Google, and central visibility for better, faster detection and response. With 7,000 employees across 65 countries, Trend enables organizations to simplify and secure their connected world. www.TrendMicro.com.

SOURCE Trend Micro Incorporated
DUBLIN, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "U.S. Sex Reassignment Surgery Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Gender Transition (Female-to-male, Male-to-female), By Procedure (Mastectomy, Vaginoplasty, Scrotoplasty, Hysterectomy, Phalloplasty), And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The U.S. sex reassignment surgery market is projected to reach USD 5.0 billion by 2030, with a notable CAGR of 11.25% from 2023 to 2030.

This growth is attributed to several key factors. Firstly, the market is benefiting from an improved reimbursement landscape and government support, along with increasing awareness about transgender surgeries. The rising awareness is instrumental in promoting understanding and acceptance of transgender individuals and their healthcare needs. Gender-affirming hormone treatments, involving the use of estrogen or testosterone, play a significant role in aligning the physical characteristics of transgender individuals with their gender identity.

Furthermore, favorable government initiatives have contributed to the market's expansion. Notably, in June 2021, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced the inclusion of gender-affirming surgeries in its healthcare coverage for transgender veterans, which was a significant development. Previously, only hormone therapy and mental health services were covered. These government initiatives have played a pivotal role in driving market growth.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic had adverse effects on the U.S. sex reassignment surgery market. Plastic surgeons experienced a decline in the volume of services and procedures due to stringent pandemic regulations. Procedures like cosmetic and gender affirmation surgeries were particularly affected. Nevertheless, with the resumption of non-emergency services in clinics and hospitals across the U.S., the demand for sex reassignment surgeries is expected to rebound and contribute to market growth in the forecast period.

Among the various procedure segments, mastectomies held the largest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, driven by the growing recognition of transgender identity and rights. Additionally, augmentation mammoplasty is anticipated to exhibit the fastest CAGR over the forecast period, benefiting from increased affordability and availability of breast implants.

In terms of gender transition, the female-to-male gender transition segment dominated the market in 2022, with the largest revenue share of 59.81%. This trend is driven by the increasing number of transgender men opting for gender reassignment surgery due to positive outcomes and societal acceptance.

The U.S. sex reassignment market is characterized by fragmentation, with a few major players alongside several small- and medium-sized care centers. These companies have implemented various strategic initiatives to enhance their services in sex reassignment surgery, contributing to their significant market share. For instance, in April 2022, Cedars Sinai received recognition as an LGBTQ Health Care Equality Top Performer in the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's 2020 Health Care Equality Index.

Company Profiles

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Transgender Surgery Institute

Cedars-Sinai

Moein Surgical Arts

Cleveland Clinic

CNY Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery

Plastic Surgery Group of Rochester

Regents of the University of Michigan

of the Boston Medical Center

The Johns Hopkins University

Kaiser Permanente

University of California, San Francisco Center of Excellence for Transgender Health

Center of Excellence for Transgender Health New York Presbyterian Hospital

Mayo Clinic (Transgender and Intersex Specialty Care Clinic)

Key Topics Covered:



Chapter 1. Methodology and Scope



Chapter 2. Executive Summary

2.1. Market Snapshot

2.2. Segment Snapshot

2.3. Competitive Landscape Snapshot



Chapter 3. Market Variables, Trends, & Scope

3.1. Market Dynamics

3.1.1. Market Driver Analysis

3.1.1.1. Increasing prevalence of gender dysphoria

3.1.1.2. Improving reimbursement scenario and Government aids

3.1.1.3. Increasing public awareness about transgender surgeries

3.1.1.4. Increasing novel hormonal therapies with better efficacy

3.1.2. Market Restraint Analysis

3.1.2.1. High cost of procedures

3.1.2.2. Risks associated with surgical procedures

3.2. Industry Analysis Tools

3.2.1. Porter's Five Forces Analysis

3.2.2. PESTLE Analysis

3.3. Regulatory Framework & Reimbursement Scenario

3.4. Target Population Analysis

3.5. Patient Journey Analysis Based on a Hypothetical Case Study

3.6. COVID-19 Impact Analysis



Chapter 4. U.S. Sex Reassignment Surgery Market: Gender Transition Estimates & Trend Analysis

4.1. Segment Definitions

4.2. U.S. Sex Reassignment Surgery Market: Segment Dashboard

4.3. U.S. Sex Reassignment Surgery Market: Gender Transition Movement & Market Share Analysis

4.4. Male-to-Female

4.5. Female-to-Male



Chapter 5. U.S. Sex Reassignment Surgery Market: Procedure Estimates & Trend Analysis

5.1. Segment Definitions

5.2. U.S. Sex Reassignment Surgery Market: Segment Dashboard

5.3. U.S. Sex Reassignment Surgery Market: Region Movement & Market Share Analysis

5.4. Augmentation Mammoplasty

5.5. Voice Feminization Surgery

5.6. Reduction Thyrochondroplasty

5.7. Orchiectomy

5.8. Vaginoplasty

5.9. Chest Masculinization Surgery

5.10. Scrotoplasty

5.11. Hysterectomy

5.12. Phalloplasty

5.13. Mastectomy

5.14. Metoidioplasty

5.15. Facial Feminization Surgery



Chapter 6. Competitive Landscape

6.1. Overview

6.2. Financial Performance

6.3. Service Benchmarking

6.4. Strategic Initiatives

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/85g9jy

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900



U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Research and Markets
Gallup and Walton Family Foundation Launch Gen Z Research Panel

WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Gallup and Walton Family Foundation today unveiled the Gen Z Panel, one of the largest and most comprehensive national research panels to track sentiment and behavior of this generation over time. Having the ability to compare this youngest generation to older ones will reveal new insights as to how this generation is different from those before.

"This is a critical moment for youth and for the adults supporting them," said Romy Drucker, director of the Education Program at the Walton Family Foundation. "This partnership with Gallup will generate insights and perspectives to help us all be better guides, better listeners, and better partners as the next generation rises."

Overall, the survey shows that 47% of Gen Z is thriving today, lower than older generations  millennials (59%), Gen Xers (57%) and baby boomers (52%). Furthermore, Gen Z Americans are thriving at a lower rate than millennials were at the same age, according to Gallup polling. In 2014, 60% of 18- to 26-year-old millennials were considered thriving, 13 percentage points higher than today's 18- to 26-year-olds.

Some of Gen Z's struggles with wellbeing may be related to their mental health: More than a third of Gen Z rate their mental health as "poor" (10%) or "only fair" (26%), higher than any other generation. Additionally, 54% of Gen Zers report feeling anxious a lot of the prior day, compared with 44% of millennials, 42% of Gen Xers, 33% of baby boomers and 25% of the silent generation. And mental health is having a measurable impact on their academics as Gen Z students with fair or poor mental health are 59% more likely to say they have missed school in the past month than those with excellent mental health.

Despite struggling with mental and emotional wellbeing, the majority of Gen Z are optimistic about their future. Even among those who rate their mental health as "only fair," 65% agree or strongly agree that they have a great future ahead of them. Optimism about the future is especially prevalent among Black Gen Zers, 45% of whom strongly agree they will have a great future, compared with 30% of Hispanic Gen Zers and 31% of White Gen Zers.

Another challenge for Gen Z, however, is that only about four in 10 (44%) Gen Z students report feeling prepared for their future. This lack of confidence may reflect the extent to which students feel their schools are preparing them for future careers. Most Gen Z middle and high school students say their schools do not provide practical learning experiences that could help them enter the workforce. When asked if their school offers opportunities to learn skills like applying for a job or interview prep, only 29% and 34% of Gen Z students agree, respectively. Further, only half of Gen Z students say their schoolwork challenges them in a good way (52%).

The most common barrier to Gen Z members' goals and aspirations is lack of financial resources (64%). Cost is especially concerning for Gen Z middle and high school students who wish to go to college, as just over half (53%) believe they will be able to afford it. When asked what they hope for most in their future, more than two-thirds (69%) of Gen Z rank earning enough to live comfortably as one of their top three hopes. Black Gen Z Americans are particularly interested in pursuing entrepreneurial opportunities: Four in 10 Black Gen Z Americans (41%) say they want to start their own business, compared with 36% of Hispanic Gen Z Americans and 25% of White Gen Z Americans.

Overall, less than half of Gen Z members express a lot of confidence in the medical system (45%), military (40%) and police (38%); less than one-quarter trust the criminal justice system (23%), large technology companies (17%) or the news (16%). Only teachers (63%) and science (71%) are trusted a lot by this generation.

"Empowering Gen Z to achieve their goals and aspirations requires that schools provide students with relevant experiences and education that will help them navigate the workforce," said Stephanie Marken, Gallup partner and executive director for education research. "For those students who want to pursue postsecondary education, we have work to do to communicate affordable paths to education and training beyond high school so that every student can realize post-high school dreams."

About Walton Family Foundation

The Walton Family Foundation is, at its core, a family-led foundation. Three generations of the descendants of our founders, Sam and Helen Walton, and their spouses work together to lead the foundation and create access to opportunity for people and communities. We work in three areas: improving K-12 education, protecting rivers and oceans and the communities they support, and investing in our home region of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas-Mississippi Delta. To learn more, visit waltonfamilyfoundation.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Gallup

Gallup delivers analytics and advice to help leaders and organizations solve their most pressing problems. Combining more than 80 years of experience with its global reach, Gallup knows more about the attitudes and behaviors of employees, customers, students and citizens than any other organization in the world.

Contact: Kristjan Archer, [email protected].

SOURCE Gallup, Inc.
ATLANTA, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PROPEL Center today announced that the U.S. Department of Education has named its President, Dr. Lisa N. Herring, as Strategic Advisor to the Secretary. Herring, who officially begins her tenure with PROPEL on Monday, September 18th, will help shape the USDOE's strategy to engage state and local officials.

"I am delighted to have Dr. Lisa Herring join us at the Department of Education, a leader whose decades of experience as a teacher and administrator will be a tremendous asset to the Biden-Harris team. As strategic advisor, Dr. Herring will draw upon a professional career that has spanned both rural and urban communities, and teaching in both public and private schools to deepen our relationships and collaboration with state and local education leaders. Dr. Herring shares our commitment to accelerating academic recovery in our schools and empowering educators to help students of all backgrounds to find their purpose and fulfill their potential. I look forward to working with her to raise the bar in education for all students," said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona.

As the incoming president of the PROPEL Center, Dr. Herring is singularly enthused by the distinctive appointment, and the many potential ways in which the strategic role with the USDOE aligns with and complements her important work with PROPEL on behalf of America's Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and their students. "I am honored to serve in this capacity to help impact and influence education across both the K-12 and Postsecondary spectrum communities," Herring states. "I am incredibly eager to lead and work together to forge innovative, creative and student focused opportunities for scholars across our country through this collective work."

The PROPEL Center is a first-of-its kind innovation and learning hub for the HBCU community, supported by founding partners Apple and Southern Company. PROPEL will serve as a catalytic epicenter of instruction, providing students with the knowledge, skills, tools and resources necessary to transform the nation's talent pipeline and workforce. Propel also recently launched PROPEL Learn, a student-focused app designed to revolutionize the way HBCU students prepare for future job success.

Dr. Herring most recently served as superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools, and the Birmingham City Schools in Alabama; chief academic officer for Jefferson County Public Schools in Louisville, Kentucky; and deputy superintendent of academics for the Charleston County School District in South Carolina. She additionally served in leadership positions in DeKalb County Schools (GA), Macon, GA and private schools in Pittsburgh, PA. In several of her previous roles, Dr. Herring established national models geared at creating long-term student achievement and expanded career pathways through noted corporate and community partnerships.

Throughout her 20-plus years in K-12 education, Dr. Herring has embraced the ideas of service and community through her many activities aimed at inspiring young scholars, empowering educational leaders and improving outcomes for students nationwide. Dr. Herring received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Spelman College, master and specialist degrees from the University of South Carolina, leadership certification from the University of Georgia and her doctorate from Georgia Southern University. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

About PROPEL

Supported by founding partners Apple and Southern Company, PROPEL is a firstofitskind innovation and learning hub for the entire HBCU community that will serve as a catalytic epicenter of instruction, providing students with the knowledge, skills, tools and resources necessary to transform the nation's talent pipeline and workforce. Last month, PROPEL launched PROPEL Learn, a student-focused app designed to revolutionize the way HBCU students prepare for future job success. PROPEL Learn provides culturally-responsive content, curriculum and tech-focused micro-credentials that are co-developed by industry experts, distinguished HBCU faculty, and notable workforce collaborators.

SOURCE PropelCenter.org
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Vision Equipment Supply Limited, a leading Caribbean company specialising in heavy equipment solutions has announced its partnership with SANY, a global leader in heavy equipment manufacturing and the world's foremost concrete equipment manufacturer.

This collaboration grants Vision Equipment Supply Limited the exclusive distribution rights for a comprehensive range of SANY products in the English-speaking Caribbean region, including Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia, Barbados, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Anguilla, Montserrat, and Jamaica.

The signing of this landmark deal marks a significant milestone for both Vision Equipment Supply Limited and SANY, signalling their dedication to catering to the stringent demands of the Caribbean market. Vision Equipment Supply Limited has already secured significant purchases in equipment with SANY, demonstrating the immediate potential and growing opportunities of this relationship .

Established in 1989, SANY has emerged as one of the world's most prominent heavy equipment manufacturers, boasting an extensive product range encompassing construction and mining equipment, port machinery, oil drilling machinery, and renewable wind energy systems. With annual sales and revenue exceeding US $27 billion, SANY's unparalleled expertise and high-quality machinery have earned the Company a stellar reputation worldwide.

Corie Daniel, the head of Vision Equipment Supply Limited, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating: "We are thrilled to be the group of companies with whom SANY Worldwide has chosen to partner for the English-speaking Caribbean. This is testimony to our group's ongoing growth and development and our investment in human resources and deployment of financial capital throughout the region."

Headquartered in Barbados , Vision Equipment Supply Limited is well-positioned to cater to diverse industries, including construction, mining, port operations, agriculture, power generation, highway construction, and transportation. This collaboration with SANY further strengthens Vision's ability to provide cutting-edge solutions and excellence in services to its customers, thereby fuelling the region's economic growth and development.

SOURCE Vision Equipment Supply Limited
The "Global Wireless Connectivity Market Size By Type, By Application, By Technology, By Geographic Scope And Forecast" report has been published by Verified Market Research. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the global Wireless Connectivity Market, including its growth prospects, market trends, and market challenges.

JERSEY CITY, N.J., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Global Wireless Connectivity Market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.6% from 2023 to 2030, according to a new report published by Verified Market Research. The report reveals that the market was valued at USD 73.06 Billion in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 245.1 Billion by the end of the forecast period.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/download-sample?rid=3323

Browse in-depth TOC on "Wireless Connectivity Market"

202 - Pages

126  Tables

37  Figures

Wireless Connectivity Market Soars as Smart Infrastructure and IoT Adoption Surge

The global Wireless Connectivity Market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for smart infrastructure and the rapid adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) connected devices. Wireless Connectivity, which eliminates the need for wired connections in telecommunication networks, homes, and businesses, is revolutionizing the way we communicate and interact with electronic devices. The Wireless Connectivity Market outlook remains positive, with key players such as NXP Semiconductors, Intel Corporation, Qualcomm Incorporated, and others leading the charge in this transformative industry.

Wireless Connectivity encompasses various technologies that facilitate wireless communication, including GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, which are integral components of smartphones, tablets, printers, and an array of electronic devices. This technology relies on radio waves and microwaves to transmit data seamlessly between senders and receivers.

Wireless Connectivity Market Drivers and Outlook:

The following key factors are driving the growth of the Wireless Connectivity market:

Smart Infrastructure Development: The increasing demand for the development of smart infrastructure is a significant driver of market growth. Smart cities, smart homes, and smart businesses are all reliant on wireless connectivity to enable efficient communication and automation.

IoT Adoption: The proliferation of IoT connected devices is having a profound impact on the market. Innovations in technology have fueled the adoption of IoT devices, driving the need for robust wireless connectivity solutions.

High Internet Connectivity: The rising adoption of smartphones and high-speed internet connectivity has created a fertile ground for the Wireless Connectivity market to thrive. Consumers are increasingly relying on wireless connections for their daily activities.

Consumer Electronics: The consumer electronics application segment is a major contributor to market growth. The increase in IoT and machine-to-machine communication in consumer devices is propelling the demand for wireless connectivity solutions.

Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Smart Technology: The market for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth smart technology is experiencing rapid growth, driven by the need for seamless wireless communication in various applications.

Wireless Connectivity Market Challenges:

Despite the promising growth prospects, the Wireless Connectivity market faces several challenges:

Lack of Uniform Communication Principles: The absence of standardized communication principles poses challenges in ensuring seamless connectivity across devices and networks.

Interference: Interference with other electromagnetic sources can disrupt wireless communication, impacting the reliability of wireless connectivity solutions.

Covered Structures: The effectiveness of wireless connectivity can be hindered by covered structures, making it challenging to maintain consistent connectivity in certain environments.

High Power Consumption: Power consumption remains a concern, particularly in IoT devices. While low-power technologies are available, effective power management remains critical.

Wireless Connectivity Market Key Players:

Prominent players in the Wireless Connectivity market include:

NXP Semiconductors

Intel Corporation

Qualcomm Incorporated

STMicroelectronics

Texas Instruments

Microchip Technology

MediaTek

Cypress Semiconductor

Broadcom

EnOcean

These key players are at the forefront of innovation, driving advancements in wireless connectivity technology and shaping the future of the industry.

The Wireless Connectivity market continues to evolve, fueled by technological advancements and the increasing demand for wireless communication solutions. As smart infrastructure development and IoT adoption continue to rise, the market is poised for sustained growth in the coming years.

To get market data, market insights, financial statements and a comprehensive analysis of the Global Wireless Connectivity Market, please Contact Verified Market Research.

Based on the research, Verified Market Research has segmented the global Wireless Connectivity Market into Type, Application, Technology, And Geography.

Wireless Connectivity Market, by Type Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) Satellite (GNSS) Cellular M2M Others

Wireless Connectivity Market, by Application Automotive & Transportation Building Automation Consumer Electronics Industrial Wearable Devices Others Enterprises

Wireless Connectivity Market, by Technology Bluetooth Classic Bluetooth Smart Bluetooth Smart Ready Wi-Fi Zigbee Z-Wave Cellular M2M Technologies 2G 3G 4G+ Others

Wireless Connectivity Market, by Geography North America U.S Canada Mexico Europe Germany France U.K Rest of Europe Asia Pacific China Japan India Rest of Asia Pacific ROW Middle East & Africa Latin America



Browse Related Reports:

5G Technology Market By Connectivity (Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communication (URLLC)), By Application (Connected Vehicles, VR And AR), By End User (IT And Telecom, Automotive), By Geography, And Forecast

IoT Connectivity Market By Product (Data Management, Remote Monitoring), By Application (Smart Manufacturing, Connected Health), By Geography, And Forecast

Wireless Sensor Network Market By Connectivity Type (Bluetooth, Cellular Network), By End-User Industry (Wearable Devices, Healthcare), By Sensor Type (Temperature Sensors, Heart Rate Sensors), By Offering (Hardware, Software), By Geography, And Forecast

Wireless Network Infrastructure Ecosystem Market By Product (2G & 3G, LTe Fdd, Td-lTe, Wimax), By Application (Residential, Commercial), By Geography, And Forecast

Leading Wireless Broadband Service Providers promoting digitalization globally

Visualize Wireless Connectivity Market using Verified Market Intelligence -:

Verified Market Intelligence is our BI Enabled Platform for narrative storytelling in this market. VMI offers in-depth forecasted trends and accurate Insights on over 20,000+ emerging & niche markets, helping you make critical revenue-impacting decisions for a brilliant future.

VMI provides a holistic overview and global competitive landscape with respect to Region, Country, Segment, and Key players of your market. Present your Market Report & findings with an inbuilt presentation feature saving over 70% of your time and resources for Investor, Sales & Marketing, R&D, and Product Development pitches. VMI enables data delivery In Excel and Interactive PDF formats with over 15+ Key Market Indicators for your market.

About Us

Verified Market Research is a leading Global Research and Consulting firm servicing over 5000+ customers. Verified Market Research provides advanced analytical research solutions while offering information-enriched research studies. We offer insight into strategic and growth analyses, Data necessary to achieve corporate goals and critical revenue decisions.

Our 250 Analysts and SMEs offer a high level of expertise in data collection and governance use industrial techniques to collect and analyze data on more than 15,000 high impact and niche markets. Our analysts are trained to combine modern data collection techniques, superior research methodology, expertise and years of collective experience to produce informative and accurate research.

We study 14+ categories from Semiconductors & Electronics, Chemicals, Advanced Materials, Aerospace & Defense, Energy & Power, Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Automotive & Transportation, Information & Communication Technology, Software & Services, Information Security, Mining, Minerals & Metals, Building & Construction, Agriculture industry and Medical Devices from over 100 countries.

Contact Us

Mr. Edwyne Fernandes

Verified Market Research

US: +1 (650)-781-4080

US Toll Free: +1 (800)-782-1768

Email: [email protected]

Web: https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/

Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2015407/VMR_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Verified Market Research
NEW YORK, Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The women's health diagnostics market size is expected to grow by USD 13.35 billion from 2022 to 2027. In addition, the momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of 7.93% during the forecast period, according to Technavio Research. The market has been segmented by application (Breast cancer testing, Infectious disease testing, STD testing, Cervical cancer testing, and Others), end-user (Hospitals and clinics, Diagnostic and imaging centers, and Home care settings), and geography (North America, Europe, Asia, and Rest of World (ROW)). North America is estimated to contribute 41% to the growth of the global market. Much of the market growth in this region is due to technology adoption, increased healthcare spending, raised incidence of diseases such as cancer, and increased awareness of breast cancer screening and diagnosis. Cancer is one of the most common chronic diseases among people in this region. According to the CDC, breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women and the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the US. Hence, such factors are expected to drive market growth in the region during the forecast period. This report offers an up-to-date analysis of the current market scenario, the latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Read FREE PDF Sample Report

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Womens Health Diagnostics Market 2023-2027

Company Profile:

Abbott Laboratories, Becton Dickinson and Co., Bio Rad Laboratories Inc., Danaher Corp., Exact Sciences Corp., F. Hoffmann La Roche Ltd., FUJIFILM Corp., GE Healthcare Technologies Inc., Hologic Inc., Illumina Inc., Invitae Corp., Myriad Genetics Inc., Natera Inc., PerkinElmer Inc., QIAGEN NV, Quest Diagnostics Inc., Quidelortho Corp., Siemens AG, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., and Koninklijke Philips N.V.

Abbott Laboratories, Becton Dickinson and Co. - The company offers women's health diagnostics such as menstrual medicine called Duphaston and Iberet Folic 500.

To gain access to more vendor profiles available with Technavio, buy the report!

Women's Health Diagnostics Market: Segmentation Analysis

The market share growth by the breast cancer testing segment will be significant during the forecast period. A biopsy is the only reliable way to identify breast cancer. Biopsy samples are analyzed in a laboratory to determine if they contain cancer cells. The type of cell involved in breast cancer, its invasiveness (grade), and whether the cancer cell has hormone receptors or other receptors that can affect treatment options are all determined by biopsy analysis.

Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View a FREE PDF Sample Report

"Besides analyzing the current market scenario, our report examines historic data from 2017 to 2021"- Technavio

Women's Health Diagnostics Market: Driver & Trend:

Increasing prevalence of STDs

Increasing prevalence of breast cancer

Increasing infertility rate in women

The increasing prevalence of STDs is the key factor driving the growth of the market. STDs are caused by the transmission of different types of bacteria, viruses, and parasites during the exchange of vaginal secretions. Syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis B, genital herpes, and HIV are among the many sexually transmitted diseases. The main causes of pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility in women are gonorrhea and chlamydia. Providers around the world strive to offer a wide variety of drugs for STD testing.

Identify key trends, drivers, and challenges in the market. Download FREE sample to gain access to this information.

Related Reports:

The companion diagnostics market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 22.59% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 11,029.63 million. Furthermore, this report extensively covers market segmentation by end-user (life science, health centers, and others), indication (oncology, neurology, and others), and geography (North America, Europe, Asia, and the Rest of the World (ROW)). The rising use of personalized medicine is a key factor driving market growth during the forecast period.

The cancer diagnostics market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 11.3% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 12,626.21 million. Furthermore, this report extensively covers market segmentation by end-user (hospitals and clinics, and diagnostic laboratories), type (IVD, imaging, and IDT), and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, and the Rest of the World (ROW)). The high prevalence of cancer is a key factor driving market growth during the forecast period.

What are the key data covered in this women's health diagnostics market report?

CAGR of the market during the forecast period

Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth of the women's health diagnostics market between 2022 and 2027.

Precise estimation of the women's health diagnostics market size and its contribution to the market in focus on the parent market

Accurate predictions about upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

Growth of the women's health diagnostics market across North America, Europe, Asia, and ROW

A thorough analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information about vendors

Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the growth of womens health diagnostics market vendors.

Table of Contents:

1 Executive Summary

2 Market Landscape

3 Market Sizing

4 Historic Market Size

5 Five Forces Analysis

6 Market Segmentation by Application

7 Market Segmentation by End-User

8 Customer Landscape

9 Geographic Landscape

10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

11 Vendor Landscape

12 Vendor Analysis

13 Appendix

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com

SOURCE Technavio
DUBLIN, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Whole Exome Sequencing Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Instruments, Consumables, Services), By Technology, By Workflow, By Application, By End-use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global whole exome sequencing market is expected to reach USD 1.27 billion by 2030, with a projected CAGR of 17.48% over the forecast period. This growth is driven by several key factors, including technological advancements in whole exome sequencing, the rising prevalence of genetic conditions, and the availability of data analysis and interpretation software. Here are the key highlights from the report:

Market Drivers:

Technological Advancements: Advances in high-throughput technology for whole exome sequencing have made it more accessible for clinical diagnostics and research. These technologies aid in understanding exome sequence disorders, enabling more precise treatments. Rising Prevalence of Genetic Conditions: The increasing incidence of genetic diseases has led to a growing adoption of whole exome sequencing. It offers a comprehensive view of protein-coding regions and provides valuable insights into genetic variants. Data Analysis and Interpretation Software: The availability of sophisticated software tools for data analysis and interpretation has facilitated the examination of genetic data. These tools provide fresh insights into the causes of genetic abnormalities and diseases. Impact of COVID-19: The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the potential of whole exome sequencing in understanding infectious diseases. Initiatives like the COVID-19 Genomics UK Consortium have demonstrated the value of exome sequencing in studying viruses.

Market Segmentations:

Product: Consumables (62.91% market share), Instruments, Services.

Consumables (62.91% market share), Instruments, Services. Technology: Sequencing by Synthesis (73.50% market share), ION Semiconductor Sequencing, Others.

Sequencing by Synthesis (73.50% market share), ION Semiconductor Sequencing, Others. Workflow: Sequencing (49.94% market share), Pre-Sequencing, Data Analysis.

Sequencing (49.94% market share), Pre-Sequencing, Data Analysis. Application: Drug Discovery & Development (48.18% market share), Clinical Diagnostics, Personalized Medicines, Others.

Drug Discovery & Development (48.18% market share), Clinical Diagnostics, Personalized Medicines, Others. End-Use: Academic & Research Institutes (47.32% market share), Hospitals & Clinics, Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies, Others.

Regional Insights:

North America holds a strong position in the market, with a 50.52% share in 2022. This is due to its highly developed healthcare infrastructure and favorable government policies.

Key Companies:

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

Illumina, Inc.

Agilent Technologies, Inc

BGI

PacBio

Oxford Nanopore Technologies plc.

Azenta US Inc. (GENEWIZ)

CD Genomics

Novogene Co, Ltd

Eurofins Genomics

These companies are actively involved in innovations and collaborations to drive the market's growth.

The whole exome sequencing market is expected to continue to develop in the coming years, despite challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/ogortx

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900



U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Research and Markets
Groundbreaking glovebox training application leverages virtual reality and multiuser haptics

WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- HaptX Inc., the leading provider of lifelike touch feedback technology, announces a Memorandum of Understanding with Consolidated Nuclear Security (CNS), to collaboratively advance virtual reality technology and speed its use to support U.S. Government training missions. The announcement is happening today in Washington, D.C., when HaptX co-founder, Professor Robert Crockett, presents to U.S. government representatives at the Augmented and Virtual Reality Policy Conference.

Screenshot of virtual environment for Y-12 National Security Center glovebox operator training, recently developed by Oak Ridge Enhanced Technology and Training Center in collaboration with HaptX, Inc., and the University of Central Florida. The Y-12 training simulation implements HaptX Gloves to enable natural interaction and realistic, multiuser haptics for learning complex, precise procedures. (Photo: ORETTC) Representatives of Oak Ridge Enhanced Technology and Training Center (ORETTC) and HaptX, Inc., sign a Memorandum of Understanding on Aug. 4, 2023, while debuting the Y-12 National Security Center glovebox training simulation at Sandia National Laboratories' XR Conference. Shown here, L-R: Victor Oriaifo, Account Executive, HaptX, and Ashley Stowe, Director, ORETTC, Y-12 National Security Complex. (Photo: ORETTC)

CNS manages and operates the Y-12 National Security Complex in support of the National Nuclear Security Administration. Y12 helps ensure a safe and effective U.S. nuclear weapons deterrent. Site personnel also retrieve and store nuclear materials, fuel the nation's naval reactors, and perform complementary work. The Oak Ridge Enhanced Technology and Training Center (ORETTC) in Tennessee trains those responsible for safeguarding nuclear and radioactive material, and other experts in nuclear operations. ORETTC leads Y-12's efforts in augmented, virtual, and extended reality.

Y-12 is integrating HaptX Gloves to enhance the sense of immersion in VR. In addition, HaptX engineers will collaborate with Y-12 to support ongoing improvement of virtual training environments and application features. Y-12 selected HaptX Gloves to enable natural interaction and true-contact haptics, vital for enterprise training environments involving complex, precise procedures.

"This collaborative approach brings together government and industry to research AR, VR, and XR technologies that will expand the scope and speed of technology development," said Ashley Stowe, ORETTC director.

The first Y-12 HaptX prototype is a virtual glovebox simulatora first-responder training system using haptics to demonstrate high-hazard, low-occurrence response scenarios. Glovebox containment units allow workers wearing protective, arm-length gloves to manipulate hazardous materials in a controlled environment. Learning glovebox skills and techniques is crucial. A success factor for training is replicating the physical realism without the danger.

"It has been truly collaborative working with HaptX to develop the glovebox trainer," Stowe said. "Working in a glovebox is not familiar to most new hires. Incorporating HaptX gloves enhances the training experience to prepare trainees to work with hazardous materials with restricted mobility without introducing the hazard to the trainee.

"This partnership is a game-changer as we build the nuclear workforce of tomorrow," continued Stowe. "The multiuser haptics functionality allows us to train crews of engineers, scientists, and operators to work together to complete manufacturing tasks."

To replicate realistic touch, Y-12 instructional designers implemented the HaptX Gloves DK2 Development Kit and deployed the new, multiuser haptics feature in the HaptX Software Development Kit.

"We are proud and inspired to collaborate with Y-12 to develop a safer way to help nuclear engineers and scientists become even more effective in their operations," said Professor Robert Crockett, co-founder of HaptX. "They are taking bold steps toward deploying touch simulation in systems that help build muscle memory, physical dexterity, and situational awareness."

HaptX will demonstrate the Y-12 glovebox training simulator at today's ARVR Policy Conference. Contact [email protected] or visit haptx.com for info or to request a demo.

About Consolidated Nuclear Security: Consolidated Nuclear Security, LLC operates the Y-12 National Security Complex, located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, and the Pantex Plant, located in Amarillo, Texas, for the U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration. Y-12 and Pantex are key facilities in the U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise. For more information on each site, visit www.y12.doe.gov or www.pantex.energy.gov.

About HaptX: HaptX builds technology that simulates touch sensation with unprecedented realism for use in virtual reality and robotics. The new HaptX Gloves G1 system leverages advances in materials science and manufacturing to deliver haptic gloves that fit like conventional work gloves. HaptX is headquartered in Redmond, WA, with offices in San Luis Obispo, CA.

Contact: Linda Jacobson, Marketing Director, [email protected] or (805) 888-4278

SOURCE HaptX Inc.
Accelerates network expansion to reach 20,000 stores by 2026

Targets double-digit EPS CAGR and $3 billion shareholder return from 2024 to 2026

SHANGHAI, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Yum China Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: YUMC and HKEX: 9987, "Yum China" or the "Company") hosted its 2023 Investor Day today in Xi'an, China. At the event, Yum China's CEO Joey Wat, CFO Andy Yeung and members of the management team formally launched the Company's refreshed "RGM 2.0" strategy to an in-person audience in Xi'an and to an online audience via webcast. Presentations highlighted the Company's strategic initiatives to accelerate network expansion, drive sales growth and boost profits. Yum China is striving to reach 20,000 stores by 2026 and to achieve high-single-to-double-digit CAGR for system sales and operating profit as well as double-digit EPS CAGR from 2024 to 2026, compared to base year 2023 and in constant currency. The Company targets to return approximately $3 billion to shareholders through quarterly dividends and share repurchases over the same three-year period, doubling the shareholder return of the past three years.

Joey Wat, CEO of Yum China, commented, "We are excited about the significant opportunities China presents. In 2021, we implemented our "RGM" strategy, which stands for "Resilience, Growth and Moat." Thanks to the tireless efforts of our team and their exceptional execution, we expanded our footprint, achieved robust performance and remained profitable throughout the past three years. Further, we have transformed our business, emerging even stronger and better positioned for growth. Moreover, we have strengthened emotional connections with customers. Going forward, we are transitioning our RGM strategy to place greater emphasis on growth. By leveraging flexible store formats and strategically partnering with franchisees, we are expanding into more locations. Through our delicious and innovative food offerings, combined with amazing value for money, we are winning over more customers and giving them compelling reasons to choose us. As we continue to expand, we believe our improved cost structure and proactive cost management will enable us to sustain and potentially improve our profitability over time. Our ambitious financial growth targets for 2024 to 2026 reflect our unwavering commitment to delivering value to our shareholders, affirming our confidence in our prospects, expanding our reach, and driving robust growth."

Additional highlights from the Investor Day presentations are included below.

2023 Investor Day Highlights:

KFC: Most powerful quick-service restaurant brand in China  Huge potential lies ahead

This year, KFC will celebrate its 10,000th store in China. Even with a presence in over 1,900 cities, KFC continues to expand its addressable market. There are over 1,100 unpenetrated cities and significant untapped opportunities in strategic locations such as highway service centers, hospitals and college campuses. The brand plans to accelerate its annual net new store openings to over 1,200 in the next three years, 15% to 20% of which are projected to be franchise stores. To achieve this, KFC has a variety of new store models and modules that enable customization to suit different trade zones and city tiers. Concurrently, KFC continues to drive sales growth with a wide array of delicious and innovative food and drink offerings, signature campaigns, and popular toys and games. The brand plans to further improve its flexibility and productivity through various cost structure rebasing initiatives such as store management sharing, securing favorable lease terms with variable rent components, enhancing automation in operations and centralizing store processes.

Pizza Hut: Leading casual dining restaurant brand in China  Transformed for accelerated growth

Having passed the 3,000-restaurant mark this year, Pizza Hut is on track to achieve record-high net new stores in 2023, and plans to further increase the pace to 400-500 net new stores annually in the next three years. The brand intends to drive footprint growth with flexible store formats such as its proven satellite store format. At the same time, Pizza Hut is expanding its mass market appeal by creating affordable occasions, driving off-premise sales and streamlining services. The brand continues to reinforce its leadership position in the pizza category and is also expanding into more categories such as burgers and coffee. Pizza Hut also aims to further grow existing occasions such as breakfast and individual meals. Additionally, the brand will continue to transform its cost structures for more resilience and flexibility.

Lavazza: Iconic Italian coffee brand  Targeting China's fast-growing coffee segment with encouraging progress

Yum China's joint venture with world-renowned Italian coffee brand Lavazza has made encouraging progress in the past two years, now operating over 100 coffee shops in 11 cities along with a growing retail business. With an ambition to reach 1,000 stores in the next three to five years, it is deploying a four-pillar strategy focused on investing in brand building, refining its menu with a mix of authentic Italian and locally-inspired beverage and food items, expanding its digital presence and enhancing delivery capabilities, as well as upgrading store design and experience. In addition, the joint venture plans to further expand its retail business through collaborations with premium partners such as hotels, fine dining establishments and retailers, leveraging Lavazza's quality coffee beans.

Embracing AI to build future-ready digital capabilities

Yum China's rapid expansion is supported by a dynamic AI-empowered digital infrastructure. Through digitalized operational tools and automated technology solutions, the Company has streamlined workflows, empowered store management and increased flexibility. This has allowed 80% store growth since 2016 with a relatively flat headcount. In addition, to support the growth of franchise stores, Yum China has been building an integrated digital solution for franchise management. Going forward, the Company is broadening its use of AI technologies to further improve customer experience, store operations and people management. Strong in-house digital capabilities and the development of a company-wide knowledge base will drive innovation in future AI-enabled applications.

World-class supply chain supports long-term growth

Over the years, Yum China has built a formidable, agile and highly efficient supply chain to support its growth. With upstream supplier collaborations and innovative solutions such as full utilization of raw materials, the Company has been able to maintain competitive raw material costs. Going forward, the Company is building more company-owned logistics centers to enhance digitalized operations and create flexibility. The Company's ongoing efforts to optimize its intelligent network planning and multimodal delivery are expected to help it improve coverage and manage costs. Yum China is also making progress on its sustainability goal to transition its stores and support facilities to use renewable energy. Recently, its logistics center in Nanning, Guangxi, became the industry's first cold chain logistics center in China to be 100% green-powered.

Building an industry-leading sustainable workforce

Yum China's people strategy centers on building a sustainable and engaged workforce to support the Company's fast growth. The Company has a robust talent development strategy with structured training and career paths in place to cultivate top operational talents. Additionally, the Company offers one of the leading employee care programs in China, an equity incentive plan for its eligible Restaurant General Managers, and rewarding experience from active engagement in community services. Yum China continues to uphold a people-first philosophy, with "Fair, Care and Pride" as its guiding principles.

Balanced and systematic capital allocation

In accordance with the previously disclosed 5-year capital expenditure plan of approximately $5 billion to $6.5 billion announced during the 2021 Investor Day, Yum China is earmarking a total capital expenditure of $3.5 billion to $5 billion over the next three years. These investments are aimed at growing and refining its store network, enhancing its supply chain infrastructure and further advancing digital capabilities. Moreover, the Company will continue its disciplined approach to strategic investment, focusing on targets that strengthen core capabilities and improve market positioning. Yum China is committed to returning surplus cash to shareholders, with a target to return approximately $3 billion from 2024 to 2026. This includes a significant increase in share repurchases and a planned double-digit increase in dividends.

2023 outlook

The recovery trajectory remains stable despite the near-term economic headwinds. The Company expects same-store sales to continue recovering steadily throughout the full year 2023, maintaining a pace of approximately 90% compared to the 2019 level.

The Company increased its net new stores target for 2023 to 1,400-1,600, compared with its previous target of 1,100-1,300. Footprint growth is supported by the flexible store formats, healthy new store payback periods and a strong store pipeline. Management will continue to implement a disciplined and systematic approach in new store openings.

The Company maintained its capital expenditures target of approximately $700 million to $900 million for 2023.

Webcast Replay and Presentation Materials

A webcast replay of the Investor Day as well as the presentation materials are available at http://ir.yumchina.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. We intend all forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and by the use of forward-looking words such as "expect," "expectation," "believe," "anticipate," "may," "could," "intend," "belief," "plan," "estimate," "target," "predict," "project," "likely," "will," "continue," "should," "forecast," "outlook," "commit" or similar terminology. These statements are based on current estimates and assumptions made by us in light of our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that we believe are appropriate and reasonable under the circumstances, but there can be no assurance that such estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the future strategies, growth, business plans, investment, dividend and share repurchase plans, earnings, performance and returns of Yum China, anticipated effects of population and macroeconomic trends, pace of recovery of Yum China's business, the anticipated effects of our innovation, digital and delivery capabilities and investments on growth, beliefs regarding the long-term drivers of Yum China's business and sustainability goals. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance and are inherently subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and could cause our actual results or events to differ materially from those indicated by those statements. We cannot assure you that any of our expectations, estimates or assumptions will be achieved. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are only made as of the date of this press release, and we disclaim any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as required by law. Numerous factors could cause our actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: whether we are able to achieve development goals at the times and in the amounts currently anticipated, if at all, the success of our marketing campaigns and product innovation, our ability to maintain food safety and quality control systems, changes in public health conditions, including the COVID-19 pandemic, our ability to control costs and expenses, including tax costs, as well as changes in political, economic and regulatory conditions in China. In addition, other risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe to be immaterial could affect the accuracy of any such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements should be evaluated with the understanding of their inherent uncertainty. You should consult our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (including the information set forth under the captions "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q) for additional detail about factors that could affect our financial and other results.

About Yum China Holdings, Inc.

Yum China is the largest restaurant company in China with a mission to make every life taste beautiful. The Company has over 400,000 employees and operates over 13,000 restaurants under six brands across 1,900 cities in China. KFC and Pizza Hut are the leading brands in the quick-service and casual dining restaurant spaces in China, respectively. Taco Bell offers innovative Mexican-inspired food. Yum China has also partnered with Lavazza to develop the Lavazza coffee concept in China. Little Sheep and Huang Ji Huang specialize in Chinese cuisine. Yum China has a world-class, digitalized supply chain which includes an extensive network of logistics centers nationwide and an in-house supply chain management system. Its strong digital capabilities and loyalty program enable the Company to reach customers faster and serve them better. Yum China is a Fortune 500 company with the vision to be the world's most innovative pioneer in the restaurant industry. For more information, please visit http://ir.yumchina.com.

Investor Relations Contact:



Tel: +86 21 2407 7556 / +852 2267 5801 [email protected]





Media Contact:



Tel: +86 21 2407 7510 [email protected]

SOURCE Yum China Holdings, Inc.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's interview with POLITICO Europe, as well as statements made by him in recent days, once again show that he expresses contradictory opinions several times a day, does not pursue a consistent policy, does not abandon his territorial claims to Azerbaijan and now tries to disguise them, demonstrating at the same time interest in inflaming the situation in the region, Western Azerbaijan Community said in a statement, Trend reports.

"Pashinyan's statements show that Armenia even in words puts conditions for recognizing Azerbaijan's territorial integrity," the Community said.

Western Azerbaijan Community noted that Azerbaijan's policy towards the Armenian population of Karabakh, dialog with them is a purely internal affair of Azerbaijan, and these issues have nothing to do with Armenia.

Armenia should stop its rude interference in the internal affairs of Azerbaijan - This is a dangerous policy to follow, said the statement of the Community.

"The Prime Minister's opinion that "Armenia recognized the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan because our allies remained silent" shows Armenia's true intentions and hypocrisy. One can conclude that if Armenia had received outside support, it would not have recognized the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. This is coming from a state that at every opportunity flaunts its sovereignty, territorial integrity, draws "red lines", sheds crocodile tears, and conducts a vile slander campaign against Azerbaijan's sovereignty at the international level," said the community.

"It seems that Pashinyan is still under the influence of the racist, Azerbaijanophobic ideology that has been shaped in Armenia for 30 years. One of the main pillars of this ideology was the idea that "the Karabakh issue is solved because the Armenian people solved the Karabakh issue on the battlefield". The Azerbaijani people showed how the Armenian people "solved" the Karabakh issue - in 2020 on the battlefield during the second Karabakh war," Western Azerbaijan Community added.

The Community emphasized that by not accepting the invitation of the Western Azerbaijan Community to dialog and denying the right of Azerbaijanis to return, Pashinyan probably thinks: "we have solved the issue of Western Azerbaijanis".

"This is the wrong approach. Western Azerbaijanis are determined to return to their ancestral lands peacefully, and no one can prevent this," said the statement.
DUSHANBE, Azerbaijan, September 14. Azerbaijan and the countries of Central Asia are bound by the centuries-long brotherhood ties of our peoples, Ilham Aliyev said at the 5th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia in Tajikistan, Trend reports.

Shared cultural roots are the solid foundation of interstate relations.

For over 30 years, as independent states, we actively engage both in bilateral and multilateral formats. We support each others independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and actively develop economic ties.

With growing economy, demographics and geopolitical potential Central Asia and Azerbaijan is a single historical and cultural geographic region of strategic significance in world politics, President Ilham Aliyev emphasized.
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
New York, Sep 14 : India said it has "strongly" taken up the case of its national Jaahnavi Kandula with authorities in the US, following the release of a bodycam video in which a cop is heard joking and laughing about the Indian student's death by a police patrol car this year.

In the brief clip, Seattle Police Officers' Guild Vice President Daniel Auderer is seen driving and can be heard saying, "she had limited value", in a call with the guild's president, Mike Solan, The Seattle Times reported this week.

The Consulate General of India in San Francisco on Wednesday termed the incident as "deeply troubling".

"We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle & Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington D.C. for a thorough investigation & action against those involved in this tragic case," the consulate said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

"The Consulate & Embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all concerned authorities," it added.

Kandula, a 23-year-old student of Northeastern University campus in South Lake Union, was walking near Dexter Avenue North and Thomas Street when she was hit by a Seattle Police vehicle driven by Kevin Dave on January 23.

Auderer, who was assigned to check whether Dave was under any influence, inadvertently left his body camera on, in which he was heard laughing and saying that Kandula's life had "limited value" and the city should "just write a check".

"Eleven thousand dollars. She was 26 anyway," Auderer said, adding Dave was "going 50 (miles an hour)", stating how "that's not out of control" for a trained driver.

A police investigation released in June found that Dave was actually travelling at 74 miles an hour in a 25 mile an hour zone while responding to a different call when Kandula was hit and thrown more than 100 feet.

The SPD said in a statement released on Monday that the video of Auderer's call "was identified in the routine course of business by a department employee", and was escalated to Chief Adrian Diaz.

Following the chain of command, the employee then escalated it to the Office of Police Accountability (OPA) for a review, the statement added. Stating that it released the video "in the interest of transparency", the SPD said it will not comment further on the video until the OPA completes its investigation.

"No City employee should comment, either in their official or personal capacity, in a way that suggests that any factual, policy, or legal conclusions have been reached about the incident," the SPD statement read.

"SPD has been in touch with the family of the victim pedestrian and continues to honor their expressed request for privacy. As others in the accountability system proceed with their work, we again extend our deepest sympathy for this tragic collision," the statement added.

--IANS

mi/ksk
Jaiprakash R. Dandegaonkar takes over as new President of NFCSF. Image Source: IANS News

Lucknow, Sep 14 : The Uttar Pradesh government is considering a proposal to increase the sugarcane State Advisory Price (SAP) in the upcoming crushing season scheduled to start from October.

The state government may go in for a cane price revision ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

A senior government official said that initial discussions on the issue have weighed in favour of revising the SAP which has remained unchanged for almost two years.

The last hike in SAP was done in September 2021, months ahead of the 2022 state Assembly elections.

Sources said that the cane department is expected to call a meeting soon to hold a discussion with the farmers and the millers.

This would be followed by deliberations by a high-level committee headed by Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary.

The final decision, however, would be taken by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, sources said.

Currently, the SAP for the general variety of cane is Rs 340 per quintal, while for early and late varieties it is Rs 350 and Rs 335 per quintal, respectively.

Experts said that the issue of SAP has essentially been sensitive for the state's western region where the BJP seeks to consolidate its position amid aggressive posturing by the Rashtriya Lok Dal.

Significantly, the opposition parties have been mounting pressure on the state government to increase the SAP while ensuring timely payment of cane dues to the farmers.

Experts said that the state government may seek to tread cautiously on revising the SAP -- a move which is potentially fraught with chances of cane arrears getting increased while stoking resentment among farmers.

Sources said that the state government may take a decision only after assessing the cane payment situation during the 2023-24 cane crushing year.

"At present, the cane payment situation is relatively good. It needs to be maintained before any decision on SAP revision is taken," said a senior official in the cane development department.

The SAP for sugarcane in Uttar Pradesh is third highest in the country after Haryana and Punjab.

Both Punjab and Haryana increased the cane compensation by Rs 20 and Rs 10 per quintal, respectively, in the previous cane crushing season.
Washington, Sep 14 : General Mark Milley, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, has strongly rejected a claim made by former President Donald Trump and his White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows that he had recommended an American military attack on Iran.

Rilley told CNN on Wednesday that he never recommended a military attack on Iran during the Trump administration, pushing back on the claims.

"I can assure you that not one time have I ever recommended attacking Iran," the top military official said.

Milley told CNN he did not know the specific document Trump was referring to.

It had been previously reported that it was not authored by Milley.

"I don't know the document they're talking about. I've never seen  no one's presented me with what it is they're talking about. So, I really still can't comment on it," Milley said.

"But I can assure you that, you know, a military attack on Iran is a very, very serious undertaking. We have capabilities. We have plans  that's not particularly unusual  to comment on that. But I am not going to go further and discuss any of the details, he said referring to Trumps claims. "

Trump was reportedly captured on audio tape talking about the plan with biographers for Meadows way back in July 2021 at his Bedminster, New Jersey, resort, acknowledging he had not declassified the document.

"As president, I could have declassified, but now I can't," Trump says of the document, according to the transcript of the tape .

Milley, an Army general who is retiring on September 30 as the nation's top military officer, was Trump's chairman of the Joint Chiefs during the final 16 months of his time in office.

He had a huge role in events of Trump's presidency, including the response to the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020 and actions he took after January 6, 2001, when he was concerned that the former President could go "rogue", media reports said.

Milley also became a significant figure in special counsel Jack Smith's indictment of Trump over his alleged mishandling of classified documents, when the former President claimed to have a plan to attack Iran authored by Milley.

In a superseding indictment filed against Trump in July, Smith alleged that the former President willfully retained a top-secret document that was a "presentation concerning military activity in a foreign country", which as reported was Iran.

In the July 2021 meeting with Meadows' biographers, Trump was complaining about Milley shortly after The New Yorker released a story on how the Army General nstructed the Joint Chiefs to ensure Trump issued no illegal orders in the final days of his presidency.

In his book, "The Chief's Chief", Meadows references the meeting and the Iran document, claiming Milley urged Trump to attack Iran more than once during Trump's presidency, but that Trump would not do so.

Meadows in his book says: "The President recalls a four-page report typed up by Mark Milley himself. It contained the general's own plan to attack Iran, deploying massive numbers of troops, something he urged President Trump to do more than once during his presidency. President Trump rejected those requests every time."

Milley told CNN that he did not know what Meadows had written but reiterated he had never recommended an attack on Iran.

"I can tell you with certainty that this chairman never recommended a wholesale attack on Iran," Milley said.

"And to do that, I think would require a significant degree of risk that we may or may not want to take given the circumstances, but that that part of it didn't happen. And I'm not sure I don't know the exact quotes that Meadows said, but I can assure you I know what I've done and it's not to recommend an attack on Iran."
Washington, Sep 14 : A police dog helped recapture a fugitive as he tried to crawl away in a thick forest area two weeks after he escaped from a prison in the US state of Pennsylvania, authorities said.

The dog, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois male named Yoda, was from one of two tactical teams that moved in on Danelo Cavalcante, 34, at around 8 a.m. on Wednesday in Chester County, ending an intensive manhunt that involved more than 500 officers, CNN reported.

Cavalcante, who escaped from the Chester County Prison on August 31, was convicted last month in the 2021 killing of his former girlfriend.

He is also wanted in a 2017 homicide case in Brazil, a US Marshals Service official said.

At a news conference on Wednesday night, Lt. Colonel George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police said Yoda was a significant force in the fugitive's takedown, preventing the latter from using a stolen rifle in his possession that lay within arms-reach.

"He was just essential as far as the tracking and searching, as were numerous other K-9s that were here," Robert Clark, supervisory deputy US Marshal for Pennsylvania's eastern district, told CNN.

"All these K-9 resources were utilized from different tactical teams from the area, and they were just incredible resources."

Yoda joined the search from the US Border Patrol Tactical Unit stationed out of Michigan, Clark added.

According to Col Bivens, the fugitive was sleeping when police finally located him, lying on top of a rifle he had stolen from a nearby resident late Monday night.

Officers took Cavalcante by surprise, and he tried to flee by crawling through the thick underbrush with the stolen rifle in hand, Bivens said.

The tactical teams made the decision to deploy Yoda  knowing Cavalcante was armed  before upgrading to deadly force, Clark told CNN.

Only the crown of Cavalcante's head was visible when Yoda moved in on him, he added.

Yoda is a "bite and hold" police dog, Clark said, trained to hold down an individual until commanded to release the hold.

The dog bit Cavalcante on his scalp and then bit him again in the "lower extremity area" to keep him down, Clark said.

At a news conference on Wednesday night, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said Cavalcante was "apprehended with no shots fired", the BBC reported.

He credited the "extraordinary work" of law enforcement and "a tremendous assist from members of the public" for the capture.

Cavalcante will appear in court on a felony escape charge in the near future, Philadelphia's attorney general said in a statement.
New York, Sep 14 : A Purdue University student, who was charged with murder after he stabbed his Indian-origin roommate to death in October last year, has been found fit to stand trial, media reports said.

Ji Min Sha, a 22-year-old cybersecurity major from South Korea, stabbed Varun Manish Chheda, 20, a Data Science student, inside their first-floor McCutcheon Hall room on Purdue University's West Lafayette campus.

The Logansport State Hospital determined that Sha "has attained the ability to understand the proceedings and assist in the preparation of his defence", Tippecanoe Circuit Court Judge Sean M. Persin said in an order filed on Tuesday, the WRTV news channel reported.

Judge Persin ordered the Tippecanoe County Sheriff's Office to transport Sha and his belongings back to the Tippecanoe County Jail "at the earliest convenience".

Sha, who is scheduled to appear in Persin's court for a status conference on September 29, was previously found incompetent to stand trial by Persin in April.

Physicians told the court in April that they found Sha fit the criteria for a schizophrenia diagnosis and recommended a 90-days treatment for him in the Logansport facility.

According to court records, Sha had told police after his arrest that "he is extensively involved in international espionage and is a former CIA operative".

Prosecutors alleged that Sha stabbed Chheda several times in the head and neck with a folding knife that officers found on the floor near the chair where the victim's body was discovered.

Sha could face between 45 and 65 years in prison if found guilty of murder.

--IANS

mi/ksk
Washington, Sep 14 : A man in the US state of Colorado won a lottery of more than $5 million and the first things that he bought with the money were a watermelon and flowers for his wife.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Colorado Lottery said that Waldemar Tasch, a 77-year-old from Montrose, won the $5,067,041 Colorado Lotto+ jackpot.

Tasch, who is retired, was on a backpacking trip in the Holy Cross Wilderness with his golden retriever, Augie, when his winning numbers were chosen for the September 6 draw.

When he returned from his trip, he checked his ticket on the website and figured "it must be a mistake", the statement said.

Tasch's "first move was to buy himself a watermelon--and his wife flowers", it added.

"Colorado is the most beautiful place in the world," he said, adding that he plays Colorado Lotto+ every month and "always" plays his own lucky numbers, using a secret formula to choose.

According to Tasch, his wife has some upcoming surgeries and he is happy to be able to now be able to provide some much needed help.

He also plans to give back with his winnings.

"I'm going to give to some charities and really think about what it is I was meant to do with this," he said.
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, September 14. We see interest of Central Asian companies in Alat Free Economic Zone, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said at the 5th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia in Tajikistan, Trend reports.

The growth of mutual trade and investments is one of the key factors of the bilateral cooperation. It is gratifying that the figures in both of those directions indicate consistent growth.

Last year the trade turnover of Azerbaijan with the Central Asian countries increased more than 3 times. During 7 months of this year  for another 50%. Joint investment funds have been established, and with over $1 billion of investments for the coming 3 years have been agreed. We are already implementing many projects in the sphere of industrial cooperation, machine-building, automobile industry, shipbuilding and agriculture, namely cotton production, sericulture, horticulture and livestock farming. Investment projects in hotel business and tourism are at the initial stage of implementation. We see the interest of Central Asian companies in the Alat Free Economic Zone established recently in Azerbaijan, President Ilham Aliyev underlined.
Amaravati, Sep 14 : The YSRCP parliamentary party leader V. Vijayasai Reddy on Thursday urged External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to raise with the US government the issue relating to callous comments by a US police officer about the death of a student from Andhra Pradesh after she was hit by a speeding police car.

The Rajya Sabha member said that shameful comments made by Seattle Police officers about the death of Jaahnavi Kandula are appalling.

"Calling her a 'regular person' with 'limited value' is crass and insensitive," he posted on X.

The YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader urged Jaishankar to raise this issue with the US government for strict action.

Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old student from Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, was killed on January 25 in Seattle's South Lake Union neighbourhood after she was hit by a police vehicle driven by a Seattle police officer Kevin Dave.

Bodycam footage of a Seattle cop joking about the death of Jaahnavi has leaked, triggering an outrage. India has urged the US to conduct a thorough investigation.

In a video released by the Seattle Police Department on September 11, a cop can be heard joking and laughing while discussing the accident.

In the clip, Seattle Police Officers' Guild Vice President Daniel Auderer, in a call with the guild's president, can be heard saying, "She is dead" before bursting out into laughter and calling Jaahnavi "a regular person".

He further said, through bursts of laughter, "Yeah, just write a check. Eleven thousand dollars.''

The clip ends with him saying: "She was 26 anyway, she had limited value", getting her age wrong.

Hailing from Adoni town Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, she was a master's student at Northeastern University's Seattle campus.

She had gone to the US in 2021 and was pursuing her Master's degree in Information Systems. Her graduation was expected by December next.

The victim's family has made no comment on the police officer's comments. Her mother Kandula Vijayalakshmi said the family did not expect any compensation from the US government.
Hyderabad, Sep 14 : Two youths, including the son of a senior police officer from Andhra Pradesh, indulged in a brawl reportedly over a girl in the city.

The incident occurred on Road Number 10 in posh Jubilee Hills on Tuesday night. Son of a former Director General of Police (DGP) from neighbouring Andhra Pradesh was allegedly involved.

The son of the IPS officer and another youth had an argument in the pub over a girl. They later came out and indulged in a physical fight.

Both the youth were injured in the clash. On receipt of information about the clash, policemen from Jubilee Hills Police Station reached there.

However, by then both the groups had left the scene.

Police collected CCTV footage from the area and were examining it. A police officer said they have not received any complaint.

Pictures of the injured youth and a WhatsApp message went viral on social media.
Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 14 : Amid the void created by the demise of Congress's two-time Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, and his senior party colleague A.K.Antony retiring from active politics, the emergence of young Turk Mathew Kuzhalnaden is being discussed vividly in Kerala politics, especially in the grand-old party.

Forty-six-year-old Kuzhalnaden is a Ph.D. holder and a lawyer by profession.

Before becoming a Congress MLA after the 2021 Assembly polls, he was often seen participating actively in debates in the dozen TV channels

here.

Proficient in both English and Malayalam, Kuzhalnaden is rarely spotted in the traditional starched khadar white dhoti and shirt - a typical attire of a Congress politician; instead he dresses up in the most modern style.

One of the reasons why he is seen as the "new kid on the block" is because of his fearless style and the confidence with which he took on Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Vijayan was cornered by the Kuzhalnaden in Kerala Assembly recently when the former placed records of his daughter's IT firm Exalogic.

While replying to Kuzhalnaden, a visibly upset CM tried his best to bulldoze him, but being not one to be cowed down quickly, the young politician stood his ground.

"It was this strong defence and well studied approach that Kuzhalnaden took, which made him the new political star on the horizon. Soon people started to follow him and despite him being a first-time legislator, he has made an impressive start, and the Congress needs more Kuzhalnadens," said a media critic who did not wish to be identified.

At the ongoing Assembly session (which ends on Thursday) Kuzhalnadenas stock rose further when he taunted Vijayan both inside and outside the Assembly, basically relying on researched data about Vijayanas daughter Veena Vijayanas IT firm, following an expose that surfaced in the media from an Income Tax body.

Soon, a team of revenue officials reached his residence to measure his ancestral property, and close aides of Vijayan levelled allegations about his business and also questioned the lawyer firm that Kuzhalnaden is a partner of.

But an unfazed Kuzhalnaden sent out a lawyeras notice against C.N.Mohanan, the Ernakulam district CPI(M) secretary for his baseless allegations about his law firm.

It was at this time, that the election campaign to the Puthuppally by-election was peaking and here again Kuzhalnaden turned out to be the most sought after campaigner and wherever he spoke crowds swelled to hear him.

Meanwhile, according to top Congress sources in the know of things Kuzhalnadenas name was a talking point when the top national Congress

leaders deliberated names to the Congress Working Committee.

For Kuzhalnaden, he can be pretty pleased as State Congress president K.Sudhakaran has already given his full support to take on Vijayan.

He has promised to come out with more details about the IT firm of Veena Vijayan.
Beirut, Sep 14 : At least seven people were killed and 24 others injured after violent armed clashes broke out in Lebanon's largest Palestinian refugee camp, state media reported on Thursday.

The Ain Al-Helweh Palestinian refugee camp near the southern city of Sidon witnessed the violent clashes on Wednesday afternoon in which machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades were used, Xinhua news agency quoted the state media as saying.

It added that flare bombs were used for the first time within the refugee camp.

The armed clashes prompted significant displacement in Sidon and its surrounding areas, as well as the southern Sidon highway and several neighbourhoods near the camp were also struck by stray bullets.

According to the state media, the violence on Wednesday erupted just a few hours after the Palestinian factions in the refugee camp agreed to a ceasefire during their meeting with Prime Minister Najib Mikati earlier in the day.

In the meeting, the Palestinian factions agreed to "work to facilitate the return of those forced from their homes and vacate schools as soon as possible".

In the new wave of violence in the camp since September 7, 20 have been killed and 140 injured so far, according to local media.

Clashes between rival groups often occur in the Ain Al-Helweh camp.

Between July 29 and August 3, clashes between members of the Palestinian Fatah movement and Islamic activists in the camp killed at least 13 people and injured dozens of others.
Chennai, Sep 14 : Nine fishermen from Pudukkottai in Tamil Nadu were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy on charges of trespassing into international waters after crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).

The incident took place on Wednesday night when the fishermen had gone to sea for fishing in two mechanized boats from Kottaipattinam and Jagadipattanam in Pudukkottai district.

Sources Coastal Security Group (CSG) told IANS that four fishermen, N. Arun (35), G. Marudhu(42), K. Sundaram(35) and S. Selvaraj (38) had gone fishing on a mechanised boat from Kottaipattinam on September 13. They were fishing at aNeendantheevua when they were taken into custody by the Sri Lankan Navy who had taken them for questioning at Kankesanthurai Naval base in Sri Lanka.

Another group of five fishermen, R. Kesavan (35), R. Kumar (38), R. Guna (20), Murugesan (45) and K. Muthu (43) had gone fishing from

Jegathapattinam in Pudukottai district on September 13, morning. They were also taken into custody by the Sri Lankan Navy from Neendantheevu and taken to Kankesanthurai Naval base for questioning.

Several Indian fishermen get arrested by the Sri Lankan navy on charges of trespassing into Sri Lankan waters.

While fishermen get bail after a few days of incarceration, the costly mechanised boats are seized by the Navy leading to these boats getting damaged and even destroyed.
Chennai, Sep 14 : RBVS Maniyan, the former leader of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad's (VHP) Tamil Nadu unit, was arrested on Thursday over his remarks against Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

Confirming his arrest, the Mambalam police said Maniyan was charged with various sections of the IPC, including the SC/ST Act.

While addressing a private function here on Monday, the former VHP leader said that the Indian Constitution was not framed by a single person but it was a collective effort.

He claimed that the Constitution was prepared by a team of 300 members led by the country's first President, Rajendra Prasad.

Maniyan said that certain lunatics were stating that it was Ambekdar who had framed the Constitution and added that these people had pawned their intelligence.

He also said that Ambedkar did not belong to the caste of VCK president Thirumavalavan, adding that the late leader was a Chakkliyar, while the latter is a Pariyar.

He also said that Rajendra Prasad should have been given credit for framing the Constitution instead of Ambedkar who was only the chairman of the drafting committee.

Maniyan further said that Ambedkar had never said that he wrote the Constitution.

Ambedkar had verified the debates, discussions and speeches and clarified them and there was no contribution from him, the former VHP leader added.

--IANS

aal/ksk
Zouerate Airport, Zouerate, Mauritania [ OUZ / GQPZ ]

If you are planning to travel to Zouerate or any other city in Mauritania, this airport locator will be a very useful tool. This page gives complete information about the Zouerate Airport along with the airport location map, Time Zone, lattitude and longitude, Current time and date, hotels near the airport etc... Zouerate Airport Map showing the location of this airport in Mauritania. Zouerate Airport IATA Code, ICAO Code, exchange rate etc... is also provided.

Zouerate Airport Info:

Zouerate Airport IATA Code: OUZ Zouerate Airport ICAO Code: GQPZ Latitude : 22.7564 Longitude : -12.4836 City : Zouerate Country : Mauritania World Area Code : 545 Airport Type : Small Timezone : Africa/Nouakchott Zouerate Airport Timezone : GMT +00:00 hours Current time and date at Zouerate Airport is 21:40:02 PM (GMT) on Tuesday, Oct 31, 2023

Looking for information on Zouerate Airport, Zouerate, Mauritania? Know about Zouerate Airport in detail. Find out the location of Zouerate Airport on Mauritania map and also find out airports near to Zouerate. This airport locator is a very useful tool for travelers to know where is Zouerate Airport located and also provide information like hotels near Zouerate Airport, airlines operating to Zouerate Airport etc... IATA Code and ICAO Code of all airports in Mauritania. Scroll down to know more about Zouerate Airport or Zouerate Airport, Mauritania.

Zouerate Airport Map - Location of Zouerate Airport Load Map Mauritania - General Information Country Formal Name Islamic Republic of Mauritania Country Code MR Capital Nouakchott Tel Code +222 Top Level Domain .mr

Nearest Airports to Zouerate Airport Closest airports to Zouerate, Mauritania are listed below. These are major airports close to the city of Zouerate and other airports closest to Zouerate Airport. Nearest airport to Zouerate Airport and Zouerate is Fderik Airport - (27.55 Km / 17.12 Miles) Following are the nearest airports to Zouerate and Zouerate Airport. Distance between the two airports is given in bracket. Chinguitti Airport - (256.82 Km / 159.58 Miles)

Mouakchott Airport - (256.84 Km / 159.59 Miles)

List of 22 airports in Mauritania along with Mauritania airport codes 

This page provides all the information you need to know about Zouerate Airport, Mauritania. This page is created with the aim of helping travelers and tourists visiting Mauritania or traveling to Zouerate Airport. Details about Zouerate Airport given here include Zouerate Airport Code - IATA Code (3 letter airport codes) and ICAO Code (4 letter airport codes)

Coordinates of Zouerate Airport - Latitude and Longitude (Lat and Long) of Zouerate Airport

Location of Zouerate Airport - City Name, Country, Country Codes etc...

Zouerate Airport Time Zone and Current time at Zouerate Airport

Address and contact details of Zouerate Airport along with website address of the airport

Clickable Location Map of Zouerate Airport on Google Map.

General information about Mauritania where Zouerate Airport is located in the city of Zouerate. General information include capital of Mauritania, currency and conversion rate of Mauritania currency, Telephone Country code, exchange rate against US Dollar and Euro in case of major world currencies etc...

OUZ - Zouerate Airport IATA Code and GQPZ - Zouerate Airport ICAO code
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to Israeli President Isaac Herzog on the occasion of the Jewish New Year - Rosh Hashanah, Trend reports.

"Esteemed Mr. President,

On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I am happy to extend my cordial congratulations and sincerest wishes to you and through you to the friendly people of Israel on the occasion of the upcoming Jewish New Year - Rosh Hashanah.

I wish that this bright holiday, which brings a new spirit to people and gives new hopes for the future, brings you and your family, your friendly people and your country good days, peace, prosperity, abundance and blessings.

I am sure that we will continue to make joint efforts to further strengthen and expand Azerbaijan-Israel friendship and cooperation in line with the will of our peoples, who always cherish their national and moral values," the letter said.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Khojaly, Khankendi, Khojavand, and other districts of Azerbaijan's Karabakh region, where Russian peacekeepers are temporarily stationed [under the trilateral statement signed by Azerbaijani, Armenian, and Russian leaders following the 2020 second Karabakh war], have made a statement, appealing to the world community, Trend reports.

The appeal was signed by 50 people.

"Despite the end of the Karabakh conflict three years ago, we still cannot return to our native lands. Armenia is conducting false propaganda, alleging that "only Armenians" lived in these regions. It denies the fact that Azerbaijanis have historically lived in these territories. We are the true and indigenous inhabitants of Khojaly, Shusha, Karkijahan, Malibayli, Gushchular, Meshali, and Garadaghli," the statement said.

"As a result of Armenia's aggressive policies against Azerbaijan, we survived big tragedies, genocide, and mass killings. By committing ethnic cleansing, Armenia attempted to erase our memory," the statement noted. "Our mosques and the graves of our loved ones were destroyed and desecrated, and our homes were ravaged. Fictional names were given to our toponyms. Many people departed this world with longing for their homeland."

"With immense pain and tormenting feelings, we only see our native places in photos and videos. The territories where we once lived happily have now turned into a 'gray zone'. The remnants of the Armenian armed forces [which have still remained contrary to the trilateral statement] must be completely withdrawn from these territories; the puppet regime's vestiges, created and still supported by Armenia, must self-dissolve; and illegal armed groups must be disarmed. This is not only our demand but that of all of Azerbaijan," the statement authors pointed out.

"The territorial integrity of Azerbaijan was fully ensured with the establishment of a checkpoint border in Lachin in April of this year. The bold and well-thought-out policy of the victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, has given us these happy days," the authors said. "Now, Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur are turning into paradise. The boundless joy of the residents of Zangilan, Lachin, Fuzuli, and Tartar, who have returned to their homes, inspires us and instills even greater hope that we too will soon be part of this Great Return."

"We address the Armenian population living in the Karabakh region: you can live happily under the flag of Azerbaijan, in accordance with its Constitution and laws. Do not poison your fate, the fate of your children, or the fate of future generations at the hands of Armenia and its illegal puppet regime. Karabakh must become a region of peace, coexistence, and prosperity," the authors noted.

"The 'gray zone' cannot exist forever; it is unbearable that we still cannot return to our homes. We declare that each of us believes in the victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief, President Ilham Aliyev. We believe that we will return to Khojaly, Shusha, Khojavend, and Aghdara. For over 30 years, we never lost faith in this," the IDPs stressed. "Every year, on the day of the Khojaly genocide, we visit the Mother's Cry monument in Baku. A similar monument should be erected in our native Khojaly. We eagerly await the day when we can say, "Dear Khojaly, we have returned!"

"We call on the international community to demand that Armenia put an end to actions that undermine the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan and ensure our right to return to our homes," the statement's authors concluded.

Following the liberation of its territories from Armenian occupation in 2020, Azerbaijan initiated the long-awaited 'Great Return' program, which envisions the return of IDPs to their native lands.

Within the framework of the program, more than 2,000 former internally displaced persons have been resettled in restored or newly created settlements in liberated Zangilan, Lachin, Fuzuli, and Tartar.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. Moscow urges Armenia to follow the November 2020 trilateral agreements "taking into account the new realities that have emerged since then", Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said at a briefing, Trend reports.

"Certainly, we are concerned that tensions are not subsiding and even in some areas have a tendency to grow. Despite everything, Russia remains a reliable guarantor of security. We continue our contacts both with Yerevan and Baku," he said.

Earlier, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said in response to the Armenian Foreign Ministry's September 13 statement that the source of a serious threat is the Armenian side's attempts to hide the concentration of forces in the region and divert attention from provocative actions.

"The main condition for peace and stability in the region is Armenia's renunciation of claims to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan in word and deed, withdrawal of all Armenian armed forces from our territories, cessation of revanchist policies and actions," the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said.
There are library gala fundraisers, and theres the Friends of the St. Paul Public Library gala fundraiser, Opus & Olives, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and will be held on October 8.

Opus & Olives, which is billed by organizers as "a benefit with friends," attracts a well-heeled crowd of booklovers, who pay $150 and up for an evening that begins with a cocktail reception and book signings, followed by dinner and author presentations and concluding with more signings. The event annually nets $200,000 for the Friends of the St. Paul Public Library, the nonprofit organization that hosts this event. The funds are dispersed to Minnesotas capital citys public library system to, as FSPPL senior director of communications Kim Horton says, fund their priorities.

It started out with 300 people, recalls Liz Boyd, FSPPL director of special events, Our biggest gathering was 1,000 plus in 2013 or 2014, in the RiverCentre [convention center] after we moved there from a hotel venue. We average between 800 and 900 attendees; last year, of course, was smaller, because of post-pandemic. There were 650-675, but we still raised more money that evening than we ever had.

Boyd explains that each years roster contains a variety of authors, some of them suggested by publishers, others chosen by FSPPL . "We try to diversify the authors by genre, publishers, ethnic backgrounds, men and women. We always want nonfiction represented, in addition to literature. Its a dance. But it always comes together, Boyd said.

We like to have New York Times bestselling authors; we like them to have a good backlist, because we sell those books as well, Boyd said, But part of our diversity, we like to have a debut author. Its an unpredictable evening. Boyd and Horton recalled that one of the more memorable presentations occurred in 2018, and involved debut author, Casey Gerald, whod written There Will Be No Miracles Here: A Memoir.

He was someone who had no [autograph] line beforehand and just gave the most incredible talk, Horton recalled, His book sold out that evening. He was still there signing books, an hour after the event.

Authors on the Menu

To date, almost 100 authors have participated in Opus & Olives, ranging from John Sandford (2004) to Adriana Trigiani (2010) to Emily St. John Mandel (2015), to William Kent Krueger (2022). Opus & Olives used to feature five authors, but now has four after attendees said they would like a shorter program.

The October 8 roster features Scott Berg (The Burning of the World); Sadeqa Johnson (The House of Eve); Jean Kwok (Leftover Woman); and Don Winslow (City of Dreams).

After his appearance at Opus & Olives in 2011, Mitchell Zuckoff wrote, Being invited to Opus & Olives is like winning an unexpected prizeyou get tapped on the shoulder out of the blue and you go along for a fabulous ride! He wasnt exaggerating since author care is one of Opus' priorities, which includes covering travel expenses and a one night hotel stay. We dont pay an honorarium, Boyd said, But Red Balloon Bookshop sells the books, and theyre a New York Times-reporting bookshop so if a book just came out, it can get that bump pretty quickly from Opus & Olives.

Reflecting upon the 20th anniversary, Horton promises that FSPPL will mix things up, to make it special, to remember the past. But, she adds, one thing about Opus & Olives will never change: this is a celebration. Lets celebrate books, lets celebrate authors, lets celebrate reading. And lets celebrate the library.
President Mung Chiang, professor Luna Lu among speakers featured for shaping the future

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.  Featured alongside Hilton, AT&T, Patagonia and Moderna, Purdue University will share its innovative solutions to some of the worlds toughest challenges as part of the ninth annual Fast Company Innovation Festival taking place Sept. 18-21 in New York City.

The four-day festival, attended by thousands of the worlds most inventive thinkers, up-and-coming entrepreneurs and visionaries, showcases creativity and groundbreaking ideas that are transforming industries. Purdue will take part in two panel discussions sharing excellence at scale in semiconductor workforce development and innovative smart concrete technology.

Additional Information

The Sept. 20 panel Securing the Future: Driving Innovation Through the Semiconductor Workforce will bring together government, academia and industry as Purdue President Mung Chiang and Adrienne Elrod, director of external and government affairs in the CHIPS Program Office, take the stage to share how collaboration is elevating the semiconductor ecosystem.

Our nation has a serious challenge ahead: a need for 50,000 trained semiconductor engineers this decade to help power our phones, cars and everyday devices, and our nations military and defense technologies, Chiang said. Through the Semiconductor Degrees Program and as part of the Purdue Computes initiative, Purdue is answering the call with unparalleled excellence at scale.

To educate the workforce needed to produce the most sophisticated technology humans create, Purdue launched its Semiconductor Degrees Program, a suite of degrees and credentials to enable a quick ramp-up of in-demand skilled talent to reassert American preeminence in this critical industry. In April, Purdues Board of Trustees approved Phase 1 of a $100 million plan to upgrade semiconductor research and learning facilities and hire 50 faculty members as part of the three-pronged Purdue Computes initiative.

SkyWater plans to open a $1.8 billion state-of-the-art semiconductor manufacturing facility in Discovery Park District at Purdue, the bookend forming Americas Hard Tech Corridor. Recently called Indianas chip-making metamorphosis by The New York Times, the 65-mile corridor between Purdues flagship West Lafayette campus and Purdue University in Indianapolis, Purdues new urban campus, will become the most consequential engine of economic growth and brain gain in the Midwest as it continues to generate workforce, jobs and innovation.

During another panel on Sept. 21, Luna Lu, associate dean and the Reilly Professor in the Lyles School of Civil Engineering, will share how her smart concrete, named a Fast Company Next Big Things in Tech, is cutting down construction time and saving taxpayers millions of dollars. Lus innovative sensors, which allow concrete to communicate with engineers about its strength, have already been embedded in highways in at least eight states, including at the future I-465 interchange to I-69 south on Indianapolis south side.

Traffic jams caused by infrastructure repairs have wasted 4 billion hours and 3 billion gallons of gas on a yearly basis, Lu said. This technology cuts down on construction, is better for the environment and is able to adapt to future needs as vehicles continue to evolve.

Earlier this year, Fast Company editors ranked Purdue No. 16 among the Worlds Most Innovative Companies and No. 1 in education, citing the universitys mission to solve the nationwide shortage of semiconductor engineers. Purdue follows OpenAI (at No. 1) and leads NASA (No. 17) and The Walt Disney Co. (No. 25) as organizations paving the way for the innovations of tomorrow and setting the standard with some of the greatest accomplishments of the modern world. Purdue has also been recognized by Fast Company among its Brands That Matter for two years in a row  the only university on the list both years.

We cant think of a better place to showcase Purdues consistent instigation of progress than the Fast Company Innovation Festival, said R. Ethan Braden, executive vice president and chief marketing and communications officer at Purdue University and Purdue University Global. Whether addressing the nations semiconductor shortage, aiding brain gain and preventing brain drain with our new urban campus in Indianapolis, reimagining the business school of the future, or helping working adults complete a degree they can be proud of with Purdue Global, persistent small steps at Purdue are turning into giant innovative leaps each day, and we are ever grateful for Fast Companys continued recognition and partnership.

In addition to Purdues now-iconic tuition freeze, which has saved Purdue families more than $1 billion since the 2012-13 academic year, Purdue also was named the countrys No. 4 most trusted public university by Morning Consult. It was also recognized as a top 10 public university in 2022 by The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education and a top 10 Most Innovative University for five years straight by U.S. News & World Report.

As well as Chiang and Lu, Fast Companys Innovation Festival includes a variety of speakers such as actor, producer, director and chief communications officer of Pendulum Therapeutics Halle Berry; Proudly co-founders Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union; and Slack CEO Lidiane Jones

Purdue University is an exemplary Fast Company partner  recognized repeatedly by our editors for its achievements in innovation and in its purpose-driven mission and practices, said Melissa Rocco, senior vice president of sales for Fast Company. Having the universitys thought-leadership on stage at this years Festival will shine a bright light on Purdues excellence for our thousands of attendees in New York City, as well as for our worldwide audience online, added Rocco.

About Purdue University

Purdue University is a public research institution with excellence at scale. Ranked among top 10 public universities and with two colleges in the top 4 in the United States, Purdue discovers and disseminates knowledge with a quality and at a scale second to none. More than 105,000 students study at Purdue across modalities and locations, with 50,000 in person on the West Lafayette campus. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdues main campus has frozen tuition 12 years in a row. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap, including its first comprehensive urban campus in Indianapolis, the new Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business, and Purdue Computes, at https://www.purdue.edu/president/strategic-initiatives.

Writer/Media contact: Trevor Peters, peter237@purdue.edu, @TrevorPeters__

Sources: Mung Chiang @PurduePresident, Luna Lu, R. Ethan Braden @REthanBraden
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. The Armenian residents of Karabakh will join the Azerbaijani society, the Chairman of the Public Association Ukrainian Congress of Azerbaijan and veteran of the first Karabakh war, Yuri Osadchenko told Trend.

"There are many ethnic groups of different religious persuasions living in Azerbaijan. The majority of the population are Shia and Sunni Muslims, but Mountain Jews, European Jews, and Christians (Orthodox, Catholics, and representatives of the Albanian-Udi Christian community) also live in the country. In general, almost all major world religions are represented in Azerbaijan. Dozens of different events are held every year when all ethnic groups come together," he said.

Osadchenko noted that representatives of various ethnic groups live happily and in friendship not only in the capital of the country, Baku, but also in the regions.

"It is not customary in Azerbaijan to ask someone for their nationality. It's a feature of Azerbaijan. Representatives of all ethnic groups in Azerbaijan participated in the first Karabakh War and the second Karabakh War. In particular, I am a veteran of the first Karabakh War. In addition, in our battalion there were representatives of at least about 1015 nationalities of different faiths (Christians, Muslims, and Jews)," he said.

Osadchenko expressed confidence that the Armenian residents of Karabakh can also live happily in Azerbaijan's society, as can other national minorities.

"The Armenian ethnic group will join the society of Azerbaijan. We also have a state body, the Baku International Multiculturalism Center, under the auspices of which we gather, hold events, and so on," he said.

According to him, unfortunately, there are a lot of provocateurs and revanchists from the Armenian side who interfere with these processes.

"However, the firm position and policy of President Ilham Aliyev will certainly lead to a positive result," said Osadchenko.
Property details:

Highest Bid owns this lot! No Minimum, No Reserve Will sell the property regardless of the final bid amount Click BUY IT NOW to own at $10,500 This property is located near the historic Route 66 (Hwy 40) and the Petrified Forest National in Navajo County, Arizona 1.26 Acres of spacious, airy land in Navajo County, Arizona. The land runs along the famous Route 66, Purple Heart Trail. The land is RV-friendly with many outdoor opportunities. Peaceful and serene with beautiful mountain backdrops in ...

Price: $ 1,225 Seller State of Residence: California Zoning: Residential City: Sun Valley State/Province: Arizona Location: , Newport Beach, California

You will be redirected to eBay



Nearby Arizona
Property details:

1.25 ACRES IN LAKE WALESPOLK COUNTY, FLORIDA High bid wins! Cash sale!NEAR ORLANDO, FL ABOUT THE PROPERTY:Parcel Number: 25-24-32-000000-034150Polk City, FL 33868 Polk CountySize: 1.25 AcreUtilities - Not to lotProperty Type: Vacant ResidentialTaxes: Approx $40/yearHOA: NoneDocument Fee $299 Payment/Terms: Payment accepted via Zelle, Venmo, cashiers check, or wire transfer. We do not take Paypal, as they will no longer allow real estate transaction payments thru them. Payment must be made by ...

Price: $ 1,225 Seller State of Residence: California Zoning: Residential City: Polk City State/Province: Florida Location: 305**, Cleveland, Georgia

You will be redirected to eBay



Nearby Florida
HOME > Vanderpump Rules Stassi Schroeder / Instagram

'Vanderpump Rules' alum Stassi Schroeder welcomes second child with husband Beau Clark

By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 09/14/2023



alum



ADVERTISEMENT Stassi, 35, took to Instagram on Saturday, September 9 to make the big announcement about her newborn son.



"MESSER RHYS CLARK, born at 12:04AM on September 7th, 7 lbs 14 oz, 19.5 inches," the former Bravo star wrote alongside family pictures in Stassi's hospital room post-delivery. "We love him so much already, send prayers Hartford doesn't terrorize him."



Stassi first announced she was pregnant with Baby No. 2 in March.



"Secrets stress me out," the alum captioned a photo that showed off her baby bump and featured her two-year-old daughter Hartford. "Baby #2, I love you so much already."



Beau, meanwhile, wrote alongside the couple's maternity photos, "Yeahhhhhh, we were totally hiding the Bump."



Less than two weeks after sharing her pregnancy news with the world, Stassi revealed that she had a baby boy on the way.



"I knew the whole entire time that we were having a boy," Stassi said on the couple's joint podcast, "The Good the Bad the Baby."



Stassi added, "I kept saying it. I felt it. It was a vibe... I don't know how to faking explain it."



Stassi told Us Weekly at the time how it's her "fantasy" to have "a sh-t ton of children," a whole "lot of" them.



"But children are really expensive," she noted. "I'm discovering as life goes on -- they're very expensive and I feel like they're the most time-consuming thing in the entire world."



When asked in late March if she could see herself welcoming a third child, Stassi reportedly replied, "When I think about what I want my children's lives to be like, I want to be able to devote so much attention to each of them and give them as much as possible. I'm like, 'If I had a third, how would I give that one as much attention as these other two?'"



"So at this point," Stassi continued, "I feel like two is a great number for me, but never say never because I might wake up one day and decide today's the day. You never know."

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!

Prior to giving birth, Stassi and Beau were on tour together for "Straight Up With Stassi Live."



Stassi wrote on Instagram shortly after revealing she was expecting, "It's been 3 years since we last toured and we're FINALLY hitting the road again!! Needless to say, there's lots to catch up on. PS, I already have 4 different sparkly bump-friendly OOTDs ready to go."



Stassi apparently struggled with the timing of having her second baby.



"I was actually putting off trying to get pregnant because I wanted to go on tour," Stassi admitted, according to Us.



"I was like, 'Okay, 2022 Spring, we're going to finally have our wedding [and] Spring 2023, let's plan for the tour.' And then I thought to myself, 'Well, I really want to get pregnant, but I can't go on tour and not have Aperol spritzes.'"



Stassi elaborated, "[But] then I had this moment where I realized that being pregnant [and] having another kid is what I want more than anything in the world, more than going on tour. And so I was like, 'Actually, this is going to be really fun,' because I feel like I'll be way more focused, I'll be way more motivated."



Stassi pointed out how her touring experience was going to be "completely different" than the first time around.



Stassi and Beau got married in September 2020 in an intimate backyard ceremony amid the coronavirus pandemic.



ADVERTISEMENT



Stassi and Beau appear to be doing well two months after Hartford was





About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski

Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON GOOGLE NEWS alum Stassi Schroeder has welcomed her second child with husband Beau Clark.Stassi, 35, took to Instagram on Saturday, September 9 to make the big announcement about her newborn son."MESSER RHYS CLARK, born at 12:04AM on September 7th, 7 lbs 14 oz, 19.5 inches," the former Bravo star wrote alongside family pictures in Stassi's hospital room post-delivery. "We love him so much already, send prayers Hartford doesn't terrorize him."Stassi first announced she was pregnant with Baby No. 2 in March."Secrets stress me out," the alum captioned a photo that showed off her baby bump and featured her two-year-old daughter Hartford. "Baby #2, I love you so much already."Beau, meanwhile, wrote alongside the couple's maternity photos, "Yeahhhhhh, we were totally hiding the Bump."Less than two weeks after sharing her pregnancy news with the world, Stassi revealed that she had a baby boy on the way."I knew the whole entire time that we were having a boy," Stassi said on the couple's joint podcast, "The Good the Bad the Baby."Stassi added, "I kept saying it. I felt it. It was a vibe... I don't know how to faking explain it."Stassi told Us Weekly at the time how it's her "fantasy" to have "a sh-t ton of children," a whole "lot of" them."But children are really expensive," she noted. "I'm discovering as life goes on -- they're very expensive and I feel like they're the most time-consuming thing in the entire world."When asked in late March if she could see herself welcoming a third child, Stassi reportedly replied, "When I think about what I want my children's lives to be like, I want to be able to devote so much attention to each of them and give them as much as possible. I'm like, 'If I had a third, how would I give that one as much attention as these other two?'""So at this point," Stassi continued, "I feel like two is a great number for me, but never say never because I might wake up one day and decide today's the day. You never know."Prior to giving birth, Stassi and Beau were on tour together for "Straight Up With Stassi Live."Stassi wrote on Instagram shortly after revealing she was expecting, "It's been 3 years since we last toured and we're FINALLY hitting the road again!! Needless to say, there's lots to catch up on. PS, I already have 4 different sparkly bump-friendly OOTDs ready to go."Stassi apparently struggled with the timing of having her second baby."I was actually putting off trying to get pregnant because I wanted to go on tour," Stassi admitted, according to Us."I was like, 'Okay, 2022 Spring, we're going to finally have our wedding [and] Spring 2023, let's plan for the tour.' And then I thought to myself, 'Well, I really want to get pregnant, but I can't go on tour and not have Aperol spritzes.'"Stassi elaborated, "[But] then I had this moment where I realized that being pregnant [and] having another kid is what I want more than anything in the world, more than going on tour. And so I was like, 'Actually, this is going to be really fun,' because I feel like I'll be way more focused, I'll be way more motivated."Stassi pointed out how her touring experience was going to be "completely different" than the first time around.Stassi and Beau got married in September 2020 in an intimate backyard ceremony amid the coronavirus pandemic.The Bravo alum -- who has said she's always wanted to be a mom -- became a parent in January 2021 when Hartford was born, and then she and her husband enjoyed a second, more lavish wedding in Italy in 2022.Stassi and Beau appear to be doing well two months after Hartford was taken to the hospital for "breathing issues. VANDERPUMP RULES MORE VANDERPUMP RULES NEWS << PRIOR STORY

Brooklyn Willie teases 'Bachelor in Paradise' Season 9 twists and turns NEXT STORY >>

Charity Lawson and pro Artem Chigvintsev address Kaitlyn Bristowe's shocking 'Dancing with the Stars' warning

Get more Reality TV World! Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook or add our RSS feed.













ADVERTISEMENT

































ADVERTISEMENT





- -

















































Page generated Tue Oct 31, 2023 16:52 pm in 0.7331531047821 seconds




BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. On September 14, at 19:35 (GMT+4), units of the Armenian armed forces from positions located in the direction of the Chambarak district repeatedly fired small arms at positions of the Azerbaijani army in the direction of the village of Zamanli in the Gadabay district, the Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan told Trend.

The units of the Azerbaijani army took retaliatory measures in this direction.

In addition, from 19:05 (GMT+4) to 19:25 (GMT+4), Armenian separatist troops on the territory of Azerbaijan, where the Russian peacekeeping contingent is temporarily stationed, attempted to dig trenches in order to approach the positions of the Azerbaijani army located in the direction of the Aghdam district. As a result of the urgent measures taken by the units of the Azerbaijani army, these actions were immediately prevented.
Does anything go better with tailgating than a crisp, cold beer? Go beyond the mainstream brands with these eight selections from Athens breweries. They all come in safe, recyclable cans and have an alcohol content below 5 percent ABV  better for all-day sipping.
Downtown Athens is known for its college bar scene, with more than 80 bars in a square mile radius. With this much access and close proximity, it is reasonable that many University of Georgia students see the downtown bars as an important aspect of their college experience.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. An attempt by illegal Armenian armed formations to dig trenches in the Aghdam direction has been stopped, the Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan told Trend.

From 19:05 (GMT+4) to 19:25 (GMT+4), illegal Armenian armed detachments in the territory of Azerbaijan, where Russian peacekeeping forces are temporarily stationed, attempted to dig new trench roads in order to approach the Azerbaijan's Army positions stationed in the direction of the Aghdam region of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

The conducted work was immediately stopped as a result of the urgent measures taken by the Azerbaijan Army units.
Why did the company zero in on RBL Bank to understand the business of banking?

While M&M investors heaved a sigh of relief, one gentleman must have been all smiles after this, RBL Bank MD and CEO R Subramaniakumar, notes Tamal Bandyopadhyay.

A little over a decade ago, on June 24, 2013, Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Ltd had an extremely volatile day on the bourses after it announced its board's decision of not applying for a banking licence.

The announcement was made during trading hours. The stock fell as much as 15.91 per cent to hit the day's low of Rs 216.25, soon after the announcement.

However, as bargain hunting emerged at lower levels, the stock pared some of its losses.

M&M Financial Services decided not to proceed with the application for a banking licence after reviewing the guidelines issued by the Reserve Bank of India for such an application, along with the clarifications issued by the central bank earlier that month.

The company said its board expressed full confidence in M&M Financial Services' plans and prospects for growth as an independent non-banking financial company (NBFC).

The RBI guidelines provided for the conversion of an NBFC into a bank, but did not offer any flexibility in terms of meeting the reserve requirements -- cash reserve ratio and statutory liquidity ratio were applicable from the inception of the bank. That was the stumbling block.

Fast forward to July 27, 2023. Parent Mahindra & Mahindra's (M&M) shares dropped 6.9 per cent in intra-day trading after the company said it had acquired a 3.53 per cent stake in RBL Bank Ltd and indicated that it might increase the stake up to 9.9 per cent in the future.

M&M did not spell out the rationale behind the share purchase.

'We have acquired a 3.53 per cent stake in RBL Bank as an investment at a cost of Rs 417 crore,' the company said in an exchange filing.

'We may consider further investment, subject to pricing, regulatory approvals and required procedures. However, in no circumstance will it exceed 9.9 per cent,' it said.

Flashback to April 2021. M&M Managing Director Anish Shah, in his first interview as the chief executive of the group, said the conglomerate could apply for a banking licence.

'We feel that from a governance standpoint we will meet all the criteria,' he told the Economic Times.

However, the group was yet to decide whether its foray into formal banking would be through acquisition of a private bank or by acquiring a public sector bank.

'The Mahindra group does not borrow from Mahindra Finance today. If anything, we actually lend to Mahindra Finance sometimes, when required, and we put in the capital earlier this year as well,' Shah said.

Against this backdrop, the July 27 exchange filing by the company made many of us believe that Shah was walking the talk.

As we were eagerly waiting for the drama to unfold, the denouement happened too fast.

On August 4, at an analysts' call after announcing the June quarter earnings of M&M, Shah made it clear that the company would not increase its capital allocation in RBL Bank, unless it found a compelling strategic value in the bank.

This was contrary to the earlier announcement of increasing the stake in the bank to 9.9 per cent.

'This is an investment of Rs 417 crore today. It's an investment in a sector that is the core sector for us, financial services, a sector that we want to grow a lot more... This investment is in a sector in which we have almost Rs 40,000 crore market cap... And this investment is really for us to understand banking in a lot more detail with a very long-term view -- seven to 10-year view.

'There are no assumptions on our part today whether we want to get into banking or not. In fact, at this point of time, we cannot and don't want to....,' Shah had said, adding: 'At this stage, we don't expect to go higher... At some point in the future, if there is a compelling strategic reason, we need to evaluate in line with our capital allocation policy....'

Why did the company zero in on RBL Bank to understand the business of banking? Well, according to Shah, it's a great investment opportunity with a one-time price-to-book value, a very well-run bank with a good management.

He expects this investment to generate handsome returns over time. (Price-to-book value or P/BV is the ratio of the market value of a company's share price over its book value of equity -- the value of a company's assets).

At the current level of equity ownership, M&M is the third-largest shareholder in RBL Bank, behind Baring Private Equity Asia (9.9 per cent) and British International Investment (a little over 6 per cent).

While the M&M investors heaved a sigh of relief, one gentleman must have been all smiles after this, RBL Bank MD and CEO R Subramaniakumar.

In the not-so-distant past, the bank was not in the best of shape.

On December 27, 2021, the RBI had issued a release after some depositors started withdrawing money from the bank.

It said: "There has been speculation relating to the RBL Bank in certain quarters which appears to be arising from recent events surrounding the bank... There is no need for depositors and other stakeholders to react to the speculative reports. The bank's financial health remains stable."

Subramaniakumar, former MD and CEO of Indian Overseas Bank, took over the reins at RBL Bank on June 22, 2022.

He has addressed the trust deficit among the regulator, employees and customers by clinically focussing on governance issues.

A string of committees have been set up at different levels, bridging the gap between the board and employees.

He has managed to arrest high attrition of staff; stabilised the bank; and, most importantly, brought it back to the growth path.

He is also exploiting the strength of the bank's banking correspondent subsidiary, RBL Finserve Ltd.

Earlier, the two worked in silos -- bank branches focusing on raising deposits and the subsidiary sourcing small loans.

Now, they collaborate for every business and, as this opens new possibilities, RBL Bank adds to its product kitty.

To be sure, RBL Bank was not a stretcher case. Even when the regulator intervened, it was well capitalised and its financial position was satisfactory.

It came under the RBI glare years ago because of its insatiable lust for growth before putting in place the right risk-management and credit-appraisal practices.

A few corporate loans turned bad and the expansion in unsecured loan books made the regulator wary.

In FY20 and FY21, its growth was muted. Before that, microfinance loans were 12 per cent of its loan book.

The contribution of the unsecured credit card business to its overall loan portfolio was around 20 per cent, the highest in the industry.

As I write this column, credit cards continue to be around 24 per cent of its assets but the share of microfinance loans has come down to around 8 per cent.

Overall, the wholesale loans are 46 per cent of the total book.

While the average low-cost current and savings accounts, or Casa, was around 37.3 per cent of the total deposits in June, the portion of retail deposits had risen to close to 44 per cent.

In the past one year, its gross bad loans have come down to 3.22 per cent from 4.08 per cent and, after provisioning, net bad loans have dropped from 2.35 per cent to 1 per cent.

By FY26, the bank plans to have three lines of business in equal proportion -- wholesale, credit card and microfinance -- and new products such as education loans, gold loans, small business loans, car and tractor loans and personal loans. The worst seems to be behind RBL Bank.

In his immediate past assignment, as an administrator, Subramaniakumar oversaw the insolvency process of Dewan Housing Finance Corporation Ltd.

In a little over a year at RBL Bank, he has convinced the investors that his expertise goes beyond stress management.

Tamal Bandyopadhyay, author of Roller Coaster: An Affair with Banking, is a senior advisor to the Jana Small Finance Bank Ltd.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
Apple Inc has announced the India prices of the new variants of its bestselling smartphones  launched on Tuesday  as it assembles the device in the country.

Photograph: Loren Elliott/Reuters

The new iPhone 15 range starts at Rs 79,900 for the 128 GB variant (the same price as the iPhone 14 when it was launched last year) and goes up to Rs 199,900 for the top-end Pro Max with a 6.7 inch screen and 1 TB (terabyte) storage.

The worlds most valuable company also launched three new upgraded Apple watches, starting with the SE at Rs 29,900 and going up to Ultra 2 at Rs 89,900.

Preorders for the new devices will begin September 15 and the iPhone 15 range will be available from September 22 in India and other countries.

The iPhone Pro phone is forged in titanium to reduce its weight; it has the new A 16 and A 17 biomic chips with more processing power.

The company has introduced a 'dynamic island' on the screen in iPhone 15 as well as a new camera with better resolution and a new double tap gesture through which you can control your phone.

As a first for Apple Inc, the gap between the launch of the phone and its assembly in India has been bridged completely.

The iPhone 15 is being assembled in India in the Foxconn factory and sources said that there is inventory available for domestic consumers.

If demand exceeds plans some imports from China might be needed and a final call on this would be taken soon.

Apple, which started assembling phones in India in 2017 with the iPhone 7, has seen the gap between launch and assembly in the country gradually come down: it was three months for iPhone 13 and just one month with iPhone 14.

Industry experts said that despite being Made in India the entry level price of the iPhone 15 is higher than that in the US (where the price is around Rs 71,000) or Dubai (3399 dirhams or Rs 76,724).

The price difference is because of the stiff 18 per cent GST which has to be paid on a phone assembled in India.

This is despite the fact that Apple does not pass on the disability in the cost of production in India vis a vis China.

Production cost narrowed because of government incentives but it is still around 4-5 per cent.

In India, dealer margins have to be built into the price.

Yet most analysts agree that the difference is the basic iPhone is not big enough to encourage smuggling.

However that is not the case in the top range of iPhones as well as the Apple Watch, which are still imported and where the price differential is substantial as the effective impact of duties which include basic customs duty (18 per cent) and GST is around 45 per cent on the product.

So smuggling is still very lucrative and so is the incentive for consumers to buy it from the US or Dubai.

For instance the top end iPhone Pro Max with a 6.7 inch screen will retail in India for Rs 159,900.

However, the same phone bought in the US will be Rs 50,000 cheaper than in India, retailing at around Rs 107,000 after VAT.

And if you do not want to go so far you can pick it up from Dubai for only Rs 115,000.

Even for Apple Watch which again is imported the price of the top end Ultra2 is cheaper by Rs 18,300 in the US even after paying VAT and Rs 17,600 in Dubai compared to its stiff price in India of Rs 89,900.

The products, where there is no import duty to India, are iMac, MacBook and iPad as they are part of a global agreement.

The India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) has taken this issue strongly with the finance ministry and has estimated that the government loses nearly Rs 4,000 crore of revenue due to smuggling.

Of course for those who find the prices still over the top there is already good news - the prices of iPhone 14 listed on Amazon.com has dropped by around 17 per cent on the entry level iPhone 15 and is available at Rs 65,999.

But as far as the Apple iPhone Pro is concerned the drop is only 8 per cent-but could increase with time.

Apple, through its vendors, hit a production value of $7.5 billion in India in FY 23, out of which $5 billion was exported.

The target by its three vendors is to hit a minimum production value of $5.4 billion which could go up to $9.04 billion in FY 24 as committed to the government.

And that could well happen with a little bit of push in iPhone 15 and Apple Watch sales.

Chart
'And once someone is dead in a family the ritual is to shave your head.'

IMAGE: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. Photograph: ANI Photo

Congress MLA Bharat Singh chose to protest against the Rajasthan government in a unique way.

The MLA from Sangod, Kota shaved his head and accused Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot of protecting a corrupt minister by ignoring his advice.

Bharat Singh's criticism could not have come at a worse time for Gehlot who was inaugurating the Chambal river front showcasing the development of Rajasthan under Congress rule, and given that critical assembly elections just months away.

Singh's protest came two days after former Congress MP Jyoti Mirdha quit the party to join the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Syed Firdaus Ashraf/Rediff.com asked Bharat Singh why he is so annoyed with Gehlot.

You shaved your head to protest against your party's government. Why?

There are two-three issues that I have been raising in the party platform to sort them out, but it was not solved intentionally. Therefore, I decided to shave my head as a mark of protest.

Any particular issue you wanted to highlight by doing so?

These are related to my constituency and I have been pointing it out time and again in the party forum. Now I am told the chief minister is in Kota and would like to meet me. I have got feelers, but let us wait and see what unfolds.

You are not highlighting the issue, but...

One issue is about illegal mining in a village, that I have raised. This issue I had addressed to Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, but the mining minister of Rajasthan (Pramod Jain Bhaya) tried to prevent me from rectifying the mistake. This is one of the major issues that I have raised.

You mean to say the Gehlot government did nothing to prevent illegal mining in Rajasthan?

Yes, that is exactly what I am saying.

I too have been a minister in Ashok Gehlot's government and they are doing good work in various other fields. And we are hopeful the Congress will form the government in the coming elections.

But then one has to protest if something is going wrong.

It is only the Congress that gives scope to protest against its own party. The BJP never gives this scope to its leaders.

Congress leaders have the flexibility to speak their mind. In the BJP if you speak against Modi, you will be thrown out.

You chose a very unique way of protest, by shaving your head.

Ashok Gehlot is known to be a Gandhian and you cannot stand for Gandhian values until and unless you stand for truth.

I told him he is trying to shield the truth.

Unka imaan mar gaya (his conscience is dead). And once someone is dead in a family the ritual is to shave your head.

And since the conscience is dead, I shaved my head.

My shaven head speaks for me. I do not speak about my protest. My shaven head has become national news.

But Ashok Gehlot is known for his integrity, as you said he is a Gandhian. So why has he not moved in yet to resolve the issue?

Integrity is there, but to hold to power you have to tolerate a lot of dirt and filth. This goes with power.

To speak one language is one thing and to act on it is quite challenging. You have to keep all kinds of people happy. It is not an easy job.

You've got to give credit to Ashok Gehlot as he lasted a full term. Anyone in his place would not have lasted for five years in power.

But whatever the truth is, I have to speak to him and he has shown the grace that he wants to speak to me.

Will this protest not hamper the Congress's chances in the coming assembly elections?

No, it will not. By speaking the right thing, the party does not lose elections.

And what about Ashok Gehlot's image? Will it not be damaged?

There are certain principles that are above the party. I stand by my principles, I cannot betray my principles.

Truth will never go against the party's interest. I am a Gandhian and I believe in this philosophy.

Two days ago, Jyoti Mirdha quit the Congress to join the BJP. Are you also planning to move to the BJP?

I cannot comment about her because she was in the doldrums in politics for very long. I can only speak about myself.

And let me make it clear, I am not going to contest the elections as I am 72 years old. I want youngsters to get a chance now.

Is that the reason? Or are you not going to get a ticket?

Nothing to do with getting a Congress ticket as this protest is genuine.

I have played my role in politics. I came to politics for principles and I am following those principles.
'The Constitution of India is a stumbling block. So, they want a Presidential mode of election.'

'This is the sole purpose of the BJP to go for one nation, one election.'

IMAGE: Bharatiya Janata Party supremo Narendra Modi arrives at BJP headquarters in New Delhi for the party's central election committee meeting, September 13, 2023. Photograph: Amit Sharma/ANI Photo

The Narendra D Modi-led government has called for a special session of Parliament for five days starting on September 18, 2023.

But what Parliament will discuss is shrouded in mystery.

What is so secretive about what Parliament is going to discuss?

Do the people of India have a right to know what their representatives will debate in this special session?

Rediff.com's Shobha Warrier asked John Brittas, the journalist turned fiery Rajya Sabha CPI-M member, what he expects from next week's special session of Parliament.

Did it come as a surprise when the government called a special joint session of Parliament?

If you ask me what the basic strategy of Modi is, it has always been 'shock and awe', if I were to use a military term.

Modi has converted this military strategy to a political strategy.

What does he attain by shocking everyone?

He is using it as his style and thinks he can get his opponents on the back foot.

Even on policies, his actions have been very hasty. For example, the way in which he scrapped Article 370 and divided the state of Kashmir into two Union Territories.

It is a known fact that the BJP is against Article 370. But the manner in which it was done was 'shock and awe'.

Did anyone expect the state of J&K to be made into two Union territories? Nobody did.

This is his style. Shock and awe.

Did calling a special session come as a shock?

Naturally, it did. This government, because of its obstinacy, made the Monsoon session a complete wash out.

If they had an inclination to have a fruitful democratic process on the floor of Parliament, they should have cooperated with the Opposition. But they didn't do it.

And suddenly they are coming out with the idea of having a special session.

Yes, they have taken a lot of people unaware. I can very well say that the political class in the country was taken aback.

Moreover, a Parliament session is convened as per the decision of the Union Cabinet.

So, after an Union Cabinet meet, there will be a press release conveying the decision.

What happened in this case? It was a social media post by the parliamentary affairs minister informing the decision of the Union Cabinet.

Should the government inform beforehand why they are convening a special session of Parliament?

I have not come across an occasion where a Parliament session is convened without a proper perspective, if not an agenda.

What is the purpose of a Parliament session? Generally, the stakeholders know what the purpose of it is.

This is the first time there is no inkling, no invitation, no information, no perspective and no agenda.

Do MPs and the Leader of the Opposition not have the right to know the agenda before a session starts?

Leave alone the Leader of the Opposition, every citizen of this country has the right to know the purpose of a Parliament session.

What is Parliament? It is the meeting of the representatives of the people.

So, it is the right of every citizen to know why his representative is going to meet.

It is not according to the spirit of democracy to put everything behind an iron curtain.

IMAGE: Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam MP TR Baalu, Congress General Secretary K C Venugopal and Aam Aadmi Party MP Raghav Chadha outside Nationalist Congress Party President Sharad Pawar's home in New Delho after the INDIA alliance coordination committee meeting, September 13, 2023. Photograph: Ishant/ANI Photo

The rumour is that the government wants to change the name of the country from India to Bharat.

Also, they want to implement the One nation, one election idea...

For the first time, the prime minister has given a chance to have speculations on why we have a special session.

Personally, I don't anticipate both these agendas in Parliament.

For example, I don't think it is easy to bring in one nation, one election idea in the special session as it has a lot of intricacies and nuances which needs to be discussed.

I think this would be another action of this government to demonstrate its pomp and grandeur.

Can you have one nation, one election in a federal republic?

It is against the federal spirit. It is against the democratic spirit of the country.

Making a House static for a particular period is against the principle of parliamentary democracy.

If a party loses power and another party is not in a position to form a government, it is the right of the people to elect another government.

You will be compromising the authority and rights of the people by making the House for a particular time period.

Even without having a stipulated term, we see people's representatives are traded left and right.

At least in half a dozen states, the governments have been brought down, governments have been manufactured or concocted by the so called 'resort politics'.

Think about a situation, when a House will not be dissolved for five years. It is like making the representatives of the people a saleable commodity.

One nation, one election is detrimental to the spirit of democracy.

Election is a means for democracy; election is not an end in itself. The so-called proposal is making election an end in itself.

For five years, there will be no election and after five years, there will be an election. Democracy doesn't run like that.

You talk about expenses. Yes, democracy is an expensive mode of governance. And the least expensive mode of governance is autocracy.

Just because you want to lessen the expenditure, can you replace democracy with autocracy or nepotism?

IMAGE: Modi and BJP President J P Nadda at the party's central election committee meeting at BJP HQ in New Delhi, September 13, 2023. Photograph: Rahul Singh/ANI Photo

The issues concerning the Centre and states vary, and when you conduct both the central and state elections simultaneously, it is assumed that it will be advantageous for the Centre and disadvantage for the states in the elections.

Do you think so?

I am not talking about which party may gain out of this idea. It is not in the realm of my thinking.

My point is that this is against the federal structure of the country. It is against the spirit of Parliamentary democracy.

Just because it suits the BJP and Modi, the BJP wants to have a Presidential mode of government in this country.

They are unable to do this because parliamentary democracy is the basic structure of the Constitution.

The Constitution of India is a stumbling block. So, they want a Presidential mode of election or campaign.

This is the sole purpose of the BJP to go for this one nation, one election theory. Nothing more, nothing less.

Yes, state issues are different from central issues.

Now, it has gone to a level where local body elections also should be controlled by the Election Commission which is absolutely ridiculous.

Panchayat and municipal elections are handled by the state level election commissioners. So, it rests in the powers of the state.

But this government believes in uniformity and unilateralism. They want a unitary form of government and not federal.

They want unilateralism; they want to take decisions without any consensus or discussion.

They want uniformity when this country is so diverse. But they don't want to respect the diversity.

All the time, they talk about one language, one culture, one religion...

Yes, essentially the one nation, one election is an offshoot of one leader, one ideology, one language, one religion.

IMAGE: John Brittas, MP. Photograph: Kind courtesy courtesy John Brittas/Facebook IMAGE: John Brittas, MP.

Do you think the Opposition alliance naming itself INDIA rattled the BJP so much that they want to change the name of the country itself to Bharat?

And the same party gave an affidavit in the Supreme Court against changing the name...

INDIA has captured the imagination of the people. And the BJP and the government got paranoid by that.

So, when somebody is rattled or paranoid, you can see through their actions, like the way in which they want to change the name of the country.

Their sense of proportion has been lost. There is no balance approach to what is happening in this country.

It is the same government which told the Supreme Court in 2015 that they had no plans to change the name of the country.

What is the need to send out an invitation in English in which it was written Bharat?

What is coming out is incoherent gestures and postures, and that is because they are rattled by the Opposition alliance.

Do you expect a stormy special session of Parliament?

My information is that first, we will have a session in the current Parliament and on the second day -- Ganesh Chaturthi, which is an auspicious day for them -- they will shift to the new parliament.

I am not bothered about the cosmetic sengol model, I am bothered about the content part in the form of deliberation or bills.

The dichotomy of the stand of the BJP is that they were never keen on Parliament sessions.

At least two consecutive Parliament sessions have been washed out completely because of their adamant stand.

So, their sincerity is a question mark. In this backdrop, I am just waiting. I don't envisage that Modi's attitude has completely changed.

My information is that cosmetic issues will be more prominent like moving to the new Parliament on Ganesh Chaturthi.

Nevertheless, a Parliament session is a Parliament session. Let me see how they are going to utilise it, and for what.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
Chief Minister M K Stalin on Thursday said women are all set to enter temples in Tamil Nadu as priests under the Dravidian model of governance.

IMAGE: Priests perform rituals on the occasion of the Kandha Sashti festival at Murugan temple, Chennai. Photograph: ANI Photo

Stalin said on social media platform X: "Despite women's achievements as pilots and astronauts, they were barred from the sacred role of temple priests, deemed impure, even in the temples for female deities. But change is finally here!

"In Tamil Nadu, as our Dravidian model government has removed the thorn from Thanthai Periyar's heart by appointing people of all castes as priests, women are also now stepping into the sanctums, bringing a new era of inclusivity and equality."

Under a state programme to suitably train and appoint persons belonging to all castes as priests, three women have completed training at the Archakar (priest) Training School run by the Sri Ranganathar temple in Srirangam, Tiruchirappalli.

Reformist leader 'Periyar' E V Ramasamy had once described not permitting non-Brahmins to perform the role of priests in temples as a "thorn" in his heart.

Already, women officiate as priests in some temples in the state. Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister P K Sekar Babu had said in 2021 that women could be appointed as priests in temples following their training.
Several INDIA bloc parties slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday for holding "celebrations" to mark the success of the G20 Summit on a day security personnel were killed by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, with the Congress saying that no matter what happens, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cannot postpone receiving accolades.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received by Bharatiya Janata Party president JP Nadda on his arrival for the party Central Election Committee meeting, at the party headquarters, in New Delhi. Photograph: Amit Sharma/ANI Photo

Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Major Ashish Dhonack, and Deputy Superintendent Humayun Bhat were killed in the gunfight with terrorists that ensued in Garol area of Anantnag district early Wednesday.

In a post on X, the Congress called the prime minister "insensitive" and shared videos of mourning family members of a deceased soldier and Prime Minister Modi being given a rousing welcome at the BJP headquarters on Wednesday evening following the successful G20 meeting under India's presidency.

In a post in Hindi on X, Congress media and publicity department head Pawan Khera said that at a time when the the sad news of the martyrdom of three officers of our army was coming, a "celebration was organized for Badshah" at the BJP headquarters.

"No matter what happens, the Prime Minister cannot postpone receiving accolades," he said.

Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate said three officers of the police and the army were martyred in an encounter in Kashmir.

"It breaks my heart to see pictures of their small children. And here the celebration hasn't stopped? He had not stopped shooting even after the martyrdom of 40 brave men in Pulwama. There is unimaginable insensitivity," Shrinate said and shared pictures of the welcome at the BJP headquarters.

Shiv Sena-Uddhav Thackeray faction leader Priyanka Chaturvedi also shared the video of the rousing welcome accorded to the PM at the BJP headquarters, and said "this could have been postponed, expected more sensitivity, especially on a day when our security forces have fought a fierce fight with militants in Kashmir".

RJD leader Manoj Jha also slammed the BJP for organising the welcome programme for Prime Minister Modi and said the ruling party held "celebrations" at its headquarters even as three soldiers and a police officer were killed in a gunbattle with terrorists.

"On a day when our Jawans were martyred, we were also watching celebrations at the BJP office. The nation was watching both visuals together," Jha said.

"At the time of Pulwama attack, they had said they got to know about it late... But this time they knew everything since morning. The ruling party and the Prime Minister were celebrating..." Jha said.
Scores of people turned up on Thursday at the residences of Colonel Manpreet Singh and Major Ashish Dhonchak, killed in a gunfight with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag, to mourn the loss, with some saying the Army should give a befitting reply to the ultras for the cowardly act.

IMAGE: Colonel Manpreet Singh's home in Mohali, Punjab. Photograph: Video screen grab/ANI

A number of villagers turned up at the houses of Singh (in Mohali's Mullanpur) and Dhonchak (in Panipat) in the morning.

The families of the two slain Army officers were inconsolable.

Officials said the bodies of the two deceased officers have been brought to the Army's 92 Base Hospital in Srinagar.

The mortal remains of the two are expected to reach their respective places by the evening or early next morning, the family members said.

They said Singh's wife, a school teacher in Panchkula district, was given the news of her husband's death in the morning, after being told on Wednesday that he was seriously injured.

A third-generation soldier, Singh has also left behind a two-year-old daughter and a six-year-old son.

Dhonchak's family includes his wife, a two-year-old daughter and three sisters.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and his Haryana counterpart Manohar Lal Khattar took to X and paid tributes to the slain officers.

Those who turned up to express grief and be with the families in this tragic hour said the Army should give a befitting reply to the terrorists.

"Everyone knows that Pakistan has waged a proxy war. Our Army should give a befitting reply once and for all, so that no mother has to mourn the loss of her son, no sister loses her brother again in this manner, no wife loses her husband and no child loses its father," an elderly man who lives in Dhonchak's neighbourhood told reporters in Panipat.

In Mullanpur, Singh's wailing mother Manjit Kaur said, "The government should eliminate terrorists. It should take a tough decision now."

"My colonel, my son has been killed," she said.

Kaur said she spoke to her son on Sunday afternoon and he had told her that he would soon come home on leave.

She said he was around 40 years of age and she has lost him after losing his father, also an ex-serviceman, in 2014.

Singh's sister said she spoke to him on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan recently.

He had only a few months left for his present tenure in his current place of posting, she said with tears rolling down her eyes.

Manpreet Singh's uncle Harmel Singh said his nephew was always keen to join the Army.

"We are proud of his supreme sacrifice for the nation. He was a brave officer. In another encounter earlier, he had neutralised two terrorists," he said.

The slain colonel's brother Sandeep said the former had visited home in January for a week.

He had said he would again come home in December, he said.

While Dhonchak's family lives in Panipat's Sector 7, his native village is Binjhol in Panipat district. His family said he was supposed to come home on leave next month.

Manpreet Singh's in-laws live in Panchkula's Sector 26.

His wife's brother told reporters in Panchkula that they received information of the tragedy on Wednesday evening.

However, Singh's wife was informed about it only on Thursday morning, he said.

Holding on to his two-year-old granddaughter Bani, Singh's father-in-law Jagdev told reporters that the slain officer had received the Sena Medal last year.

Harmel Singh told reporters that since childhood, the deceased officer had shown leadership qualities.

"He was always smiling and ready to help others," he said.

Another relative of the slain colonel said they spoke to him on Wednesday morning and never knew that this would be their last conversation with him.

A relative of Dhonchak told reporters in Panipat that he sacrificed his life for the sake of the country.

His brother Ashish said he was lucky to have him as his elder brother.

Ashish was to shift to a new house in Panipat in October. The family got the house built as it was living in a rented accommodation.

Three Army personnel, including the colonel and the major, and a deputy superintendent of the Jammu and Kashmir Police were killed in the gunfight with terrorists in the higher reaches of the Kokorenag area in the valley.

Singh, the commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Dhonchak and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat were critically injured in the gunfight that ensued in the Garol area of Anantnag district in the morning hours of Wednesday.

The officers succumbed to their injuries during treatment.
The US asked Pakistan to hold free, fair and timely elections, and to respect human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law, as uncertainty grew over the date of conducting the polls in the cash-strapped country.

IMAGE: Imran Khan's supporters celebrate in Peshawar after Pakistan's supreme court ruled that his arrest was illegal, May 11, 2023. Photograph: Fayaz Aziz/Reuters

The remarks by US state department spokesperson Mathew Miller came in response to a question on President Arif Alvi's letter to the Election Commission of Pakistan in which he suggested that polls should be held no later than November 6.

Pakistan's National Assembly was dissolved on August 9.

The elections in the country should be held within the stipulated time of 90 days after the dissolution of the National Assembly.

Alvi appointed Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar as caretaker prime minister in mid-August to run the country until fresh elections.

However, the ECP decided to conduct a fresh delimitation of Constituencies on the basis of the new census, delaying the general elections.

As we do with countries around the world, we urge Pakistan to hold free, fair and timely elections, and to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms and the rule of law, Miller stated.

He also urged Pakistani authorities to move forward with the electoral process in a manner consistent with Pakistan's laws.

Alvi's missive was the fourth such letter written by the president to Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja regarding elections in the country.

In previous letters, the president had suggested dates for elections to the provincial assemblies of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

ECP had last month assured the political parties that the general elections would be held by January end or mid-February, allaying fears about the fate of the polls in the cash-strapped nation.

When asked about Pak-US ties, Miller said: Pakistan is an important partner, and we greatly value the relationship between our countries  both between our two governments and the people-to-people connections.

He was also asked about the tensions at the Torkham border between Pakistan and Afghanistan which started last week after a gun battle erupted between the two border forces.

Obviously, we would encourage those two governments to work together to resolve that issue, Miller said.
Locals in Pakistan reserved high praise India for successfully hosting the 18th G20 Leaders' Summit.

Photograph: / Rediff.com IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with G20 leaders pay tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at his memorial Rajghat in New Delhi during the G20 summit in New Delhi.

The big-ticket event, which drew heads of state of over 30 countries and delegates of leading international organisations, was hosted over two days -- September 9 and 10 -- at the state-of-the-art Bharat Mandapam at Delhi's Pragati Maidan.

The two-day mega huddle saw the G20 members states adopt the New Delhi Declaration by consensus.

The declaration even had a reference to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with the members, while not outrightly condemning Russia, called on all countries to refrain from using force to grab territory.

Among other key takeaways from the summit were announcement of an India-Middle East-Europe trade corridor and the formal induction of the African Union (AU) as a full member of the G20.

Speaking to ANI, a Karachi local was effusive in his praise for India over its conduct of the G20, saying, "When heads of the top 20 countries visit a country, it is an honour for that nation. Indian economy will derive many benefits out of it (G20)."

Another Pakistani local lamented the global isolation of Pakistan, saying, "The fact that India hosted the heads of the major economies also, in a way, casts a negative light on our foreign policy. Our economy and security situation have deteriorated significantly over the last 5-6 years. The world has sidelined us."

WATCH: Pakistanis hails India over G20 Summit

The New Delhi Declaration was adopted on the inaugural day of the summit.

Another local from Lahore questioned the host country, India, over inviting Bangladesh to the summit and not Pakistan.

Prime Minister Modi had formally invited his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina to attend the G20 summit.

At a time when we are desperately trying to lift our economy from the dumps, India played host to leaders of the 20 major economies of the world. The succesful conduct of the global event would have filled the Indians with pride. We all saw pictures from India, of Modi posing with world leaders. They were successful in showcasing India in a positive light before a global audience. The 'Shezada' of Saudi Arabia (Crown Prince Salman) didn't come here (to Pakistani) but went to India for the G20 Summit. This shows the growing importance of India for the world. It was also surprising that Bangladesh was invited but Pakistan wasn't."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday termed the Opposition's INDIA alliance as "ghamandia" (arrogant), and alleged that it wants to destroy Sanatan Dharma and push the country into "a thousand years' slavery."

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a rally at Bina refinery in Sagar district of Madhya Pradesh. Photograph: ANI

The credit for the G-20 summit's success goes to the people of the country, he said, adding that it has boosted the self-confidence of even children in the villages across the country.

The prime minister was speaking after laying the foundation stone of a Rs 49,000-crore petrochemicals complex at Bina Refinery in Sagar district of Madhya Pradesh along with ten other industrial projects in the BJP-ruled state where assembly elections are due by the year-end.

This was his second visit to Sagar district in the Bundelkhand region bordering Uttar Pradesh in two months. Manmohan Singh, Modi's predecessor, had inaugurated the BPCL's Bina refinery in May 2011.

"The 'ghamandia' alliance met in Mumbai recently. They have neither any policies, nor issues, nor a leader. They have a hidden agenda of attacking Sanatan Dharma which they want to destroy," Modi said.

Mahatma Gandhi drew inspiration from Sanatan Dharma and his struggle for freedom was centred around it, the prime minister further said.

Gandhi followed Sanatan Dharma all his life and his last words were "Hey Ram", Modi noted.

Great historical personalities like Indore ruler Ahilyabai Holkar, Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, Swami Vivekananda and Lokmanya Tilak also drew inspiration from Sanatan Dharma, he added.

They (the Opposition) have started speaking openly. They are going to sharpen their attack on us. Every follower of Sanatan Dharma in every nook and corner of the country and the nation-lovers have to be watchful," Modi said.

The INDI alliance wants to abolish Sanatan Dharma and push the country into a thousand years' slavery. But we have to stop these forces unitedly. With our unity, we have to thwart their attempt, he further said.

The prime minister's attack on the Opposition bloc followed DMK leader and Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin's controversial statement that Sanatan Dharma is against social justice and it should be eradicated. A Raja, another DMK leader, likened Sanatan Dharma to diseases.

The prime minister, meanwhile, also said that the credit for the success of the just-concluded G-20 summit went to the 140 crore people of India.

The heads of the people of the country are high and their chests are filled with pride due to the success of the G-20, he said.

"The credit does not go to Modi. The credit goes to 140 crore people....Every child in the villages was aware of the G-20. It has bolstered their self-confidence. It was the team spirit that made it successful, Modi added.

Targeting the Congress without naming it, he said those who ruled Madhya Pradesh for a long time did nothing but only indulged in corruption and crime.

Criminals held sway in the state earlier. But after we (BJP) were given the chance (to rule), the lawlessness and corruption have disappeared, Modi said.

With the change in the atmosphere, industrialists are investing in the state, he added.

Madhya Pradesh, once one of the most laggard states, is now going to scale newer heights, Modi said.

The country has come out of a mindset of slavery and the new India is marching ahead with pride, he said.

His government will provide 75 lakh new gas connections to women in the country so that every household has cooking gas, the prime minister said.

"Projects of Rs 50,000 crore are being set up in Madhya Pradesh, which will give an impetus to the state's development," he said.

Earlier, on August 12, the prime minister had laid the foundation stone of a Rs 100 crore temple dedicated to Sant Ravidas in Sagar city.

Starting with his visit to the state on September 17 last year when he released translocated Namibian cheetahs in the Kuno National Park, this is Modi's eighth visit to Madhya Pradesh in the last one year.

The Bharatiya Janata Party had won 15 out of 26 assembly seats in the Bundelkhand region comprising the districts of Sagar, Chattarpur, Tikamgarh, Niwari, Damoh and Panna in the last elections. The Congress had won nine seats while the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party had bagged a seat each.

In Sagar district which has eight assembly seats, the BJP had won six and the Congress two seats in 2018.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. The Zangezur corridor will create new opportunities for the development of economic cooperation in the South Caucasus, Turkish Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu said, Trend reports.

With its launch, the capacity of the Middle Corridor by rail and highway will increase, which will have a positive impact on the growth of trade on the East-West transport axis, stretching from Beijing to London, Uraloglu said.

According to the minister, with the increasing efficiency of the Middle Corridor, Turkiye's strategic importance in the region will increase.

He noted that the functioning of the Zangezur corridor will have a positive impact on regional trade.

The increase in freight traffic in the region is expected to have a positive impact on the economic development of Turkiye's border provinces, as well as an increase in the number of companies operating in the logistics sector, Uraloglu added.
A soldier's family in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar was preparing for his marriage in December but fate had something else in store as the braveheart laid down his life fighting terrorists in Rajouri district.

IMAGE: Rifleman Ravi Kumar Rana's mortal remains being brought to his residence in Kishtwar, September 14, 2023. Photograph: ANI video screen grab

The mortal remains of rifleman Ravi Kumar Rana, a son of the soil, was brought in a decorated military vehicle from the border district of Rajouri to his hometown Kishtwar, where thousands of mourners gathered to bid him a tearful adieu on Thursday.

Rifleman Rana of 63 Rashtriya Rifles made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation during an encounter in remote Narla village of Rajouri district on Tuesday. Two suspected Pakistani terrorists were also killed in the gunbattle which continued till Wednesday, also claiming the life of Kent, a six-year-old female Labrador of the Army's dog unit.

Emotional scenes were witnessed at the house of Rana at hilly hamlet Wasnoti-Galigarh, 15 km from Kishtwar town, where his fiancee joined the mourners and burst into tears.

I have not imagined such a fate which has shattered my life... Had I known about such a happening, I would have met him for once and talked to him but could not do so as a respect for my family, she said amid wails from the family and friends.

The body of Rana was supposed to reach his hometown after a wreath-laying ceremony at a military garrison in Rajouri on Wednesday but bad weather did not allow helicopter operation and later his tricolour-wrapped coffin was dispatched by road.

The body of the fallen hero reached his house by midnight and later it was taken in a procession to a nearby cremation ground Thursday morning amid high pitch sloganeering in praise of his sacrifice, nation and the Army. Anti-terrorism slogans also rent the air.

The cremation took place with full military honours, including a wreath-laying ceremony and a gun salute. Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner Devansh Yadav, Senior Superintendent of Police Khalil Poswal and several politicians also turned up to pay their respects to the deceased soldier.

The preparations for his (Rana's) marriage were in full swing when we heard the unfortunate news of his death, leaving all of us disheartened, Rajinder Singh Sen, a relative of the slain soldier, told PTI.

He said Rana turned 26 this year and his marriage was scheduled for December 2.

His father Subash Chander Rana is a farmer, having a total of four sons. His elder brother is also in the Army presently posted in Punjab. Rana had joined the Army about eight years ago and was a brave man, Sen said.

He said the popularity of the soldier can be judged by the participation of people in his funeral procession. You can see all the eyes are moist over the loss of the braveheart.

Paying rich tributes to the slain soldier, retired soldier Shiv Kumar said it is very unfortunate that terrorists have once again started their activities, which were evident with the killing of three Army and police officers in another encounter in south Kashmir's Kokernag.

Stern action is needed to be taken against terrorists to end this menace, he said.
Manoj Jarange, who was on a hunger strike to demand reservation for the Maratha community, on Thursday ended his fast on the 17th day of his protest after Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde met him and assured that the government was committed to providing quota to Marathas.

CM Shinde, accompanied by some of his ministerial colleagues and other leaders, arrived in Antarwali Sarati village in Jalna district around 10.45 am. The CM met Jarange and held talks with him for some time.

Around 11.15 am, Jarange ended his fast by drinking a glass of juice offered by CM Shinde. His hunger strike to press for the demand of reservation in government jobs and education to the Maratha community, was on since August 29.

On September 1, police had lathi-charged a gathering at Antarwali Sarati village during Jarange's hunger strike, leading to angry reactions in many parts of the state.

Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister said his government was committed to providing reservation to the Maratha community.

"The Maharashtra government is committed to giving reservation that will sustain. The government is in favour of it and it will not stop without giving reservation to the community and that will be done without any friction with other communities. Manoj Jarange's fight is not for any personal demand and that is why it received so much support from the community," he said.

In the past, the government provided reservation to the community, but it could not stand in the Supreme Court. The present government is working on giving to the Maratha community all benefits which have been provided to the Other Backward Classes (OBC) community. We are working through a dedicated commission to restore the reservation, he added.

The state government has set up a five-member panel headed by Judge Sandeep Shinde (retired) to determine the Standard Operating Procedures, including legal and administrative framework, for giving caste certificates to

Maratha community members referred to as Kunbis (part of OBCs now) in Nizam-era documents. This will allow Marathas from the Marathwada region to avail quota benefits under the OBC category.

The CM said, "Justice Shinde committee is working on the Maratha community's demand of getting Kunbi caste certificates. The committee held a meeting earlier and another one will take place on Friday. The committee is studying how the community is socially and educationally backward, and it will prepare a comprehensive report to decide how Kunbi certificates can be issued."

He asked Jarange to suggest a name of an expert, who can be included as a member in the committee.

"We will welcome if anyone from Jarange's side is willing to join the committee. The government is working to fit the reservation issue in the legal framework," he said.

CM Shinde was accompanied by Union Minister of State for Railways Raosaheb Danve, Maharashtra ministers Sandipan Bhumre, Uday Samant, Girish Mahajan, Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) leader Arjun Khotkar, NCP MLA Rajesh Tope and others.

Shinde said 3,700 Maratha youths, who were shortlisted for government jobs after an interview when the Supreme Court scrapped the quota for the community, will be given jobs.

Fund allocation for Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Research, Training and Human Development Institute (SARTHI) will be increased, while the budget of Annasaheb Patil Economic Development Corporation has been increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh, he said.

"We are committed to restoring quota for the Maratha community in jobs and education. Marathas are a disciplined and sensitive community," Shinde said, adding that the September 1 lathi-charge on protesters was unfortunate.

State Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis has publicly apologised and he also has expressed regret over the incident. Action has been taken against the police officials concerned, the CM said, while also assuring that cases against protesters will be withdrawn.

Speaking on the occasion, Jarange said, "This is for the first time that a chief minister has come to the site of agitation to stop someone from continuing the hunger strike. I will not stop unless the Maratha community is given reservation and this is also the policy of CM Eknath Shinde."

"We have given one month's time to the state government with the consent of members of the community. We will also give 10 more days if the government wants, but we need reservation for Marathas," he added.
A sessions court in Ahmedabad on Thursday dismissed pleas of Aam Aadmi Party leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Sanjay Singh challenging summons issued to them by a trial court in a criminal defamation case over comments about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's educational qualification.

IMAGE: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal greets Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the all-party meeting on the G20 Summit in New Delhi, December 6, 2022. Photograph: ANI Photo

This means the AAP leaders will have to appear before the trial court when it fixes the date of the next hearing.

Sessions judge J M Brahmbhatt upheld the decision of the trial court to summon the two AAP leaders and said that the trial court order was neither illegal nor erroneous.

The present criminal revision application is hereby dismissed, said the court in its order in the open court.

Considering the facts of the present case, the magistrate (trial court) has reached the conclusions of subjective satisfaction and issued the process after analyzing and appreciating the material on record, which is neither patently illegal nor erroneous, the court said.

The order passed by Additional chief metropolitan magistrate is hereby confirmed, the court further said. The criminal defamation case against Kejriwal and Singh has been filed by the Gujarat University.

Kejriwal's lawyer had argued that GU was akin to the state so it could file defamation cases. The lawyer also contended that the varsity registrar who filed the complaint has no authority to do so.

The sessions court, however, rejected the arguments saying the government has some control over GU but it is an independent university. The court also observed that registrar Piyush Patel who filed the complaint had produced an authority letter from the vice-chancellor of the university.

Upon perusal of the trial court order, I am of the view that the learned magistrate has taken into consideration all the facts and circumstances of the case and issued the process, the court observed.

Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal and Rajya Sabha member Singh are facing a criminal defamation case filed by the Gujarat University over their sarcastic and derogatory statements in connection with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's degree.

Their pleas were heard in the court of sessions judge Brahmbhatt, days after the Gujarat High Court directed the matters to be assigned to another judge as the one who was presiding over them earlier went on leave.

The HC had directed the principal judge of the sessions court to transfer the AAP leaders' pleas to another court and get them decided within 10 days from the date on which they were assigned.

The two leaders had moved revision pleas before the sessions court challenging the summons issued by the trial court, but the matters were kept for next hearing on September 16, much after the date on which they were required to respond to the summons of the trial court. They then approached the HC.

The metropolitan court had summoned the two leaders after observing that prima facie there appeared to be a case against them under section 500 (defamation) of the Indian Penal Code.

GU registrar Piyush Patel had filed a defamation case against Kejriwal and Singh over their comments after the Gujarat high court set aside an order of the Chief Information Commissioner on PM Modi's degree.

They made defamatory statements in press conferences and on Twitter, now X, targeting the university over Modi's degree, the complainant stated.

The AAP leaders made sarcastic and defamatory statements intentionally to hurt the prestige of GU which has established its name among the public, as per the complainant.

Some of the comments quoted by the complainant and attributed to Kejriwal are: If there is a degree and it is genuine, then why is it not being given?; They are not giving degree because it might be fake; and If the Prime Minister studied at Delhi University and Gujarat University, then Gujarat University should celebrate that its student became the country's PM.

Singh said that they (GU) are trying to prove the PM's fake degree as genuine, according to the complainant.

The AAP leaders' statements would make a person believe that GU issues fake and bogus degrees, the complainant had said.
The Supreme Court on Thursday upheld Lakshadweep administration's decision to exclude meat products, including chicken, from the midday meal menu for school children, saying the court cannot decide on what food should be eaten.

IMAGE: People hold placards during a 12-hour hunger strike against the alleged anti-people policies brought in by the Lakshadweep administration, in Lakshadweep, June 7, 2021. Photograph: ANI Photo

A bench of Justices Aniruddha Bose and Bela M Trivedi dimissed the plea challenging the decision of the Lakshadweep administration and said courts cannot intervene in administrative decisions.

"It is not the court's domain as to what food should be eaten by children of a particular region. There is no scope of interference by courts of law on that count. Policy decision would not come within purview of judicial review," the bench said.

The top court was hearing a plea challenging the decision of the union territory administration to close dairy farms and remove meat products, including chicken, from the midday meal menu.

The Kerala high court had on June 22, 2021 stayed the operation of two orders of the Lakshadweep administration to close down dairy farms and remove meat products from the menu for midday meals for school children.

The division bench of the high court had in September 2021 dismissed the PIL filed by advocate Ajmal Ahmed, who alleged when Praful Khoda Patel took charge as the island's administrator in December last year, his top priority was to close down the farms run by the animal husbandry department and to "attack" the food habits of the islanders being followed from time immemorial.

"We find force in the contention advanced by the learned counsel for the Administration that due to the geographical conditions of the islands non availability of green fodder cannot be ruled out, which, in fact, will interfere with the smooth conduct of the animal husbandry activities and less production of milk," the high court had said in its order.

Challenging the May 21, 2021 order of the director of animal husbandry, for immediate closure of all dairy farms, Ahmed said it was done with an intention to implement the proposed Animal Preservation (Regulation), 2021 which bans the slaughter of cows, calves and bulls.

He had submitted that as per this proposed rule, the sale and purchase of beef and beef products would be banned by closing down the farms, curtailing the islanders' source of getting milk products, and forcing them to purchase milk products imported from Gujarat.

Contending that the island administrator was silently implementing draconian measures, the petitioner had also challenged the administration's decision to remove chicken and other meat items from the menu of midday meals for school children.
The operation to neutralise the terrorists involved in the encounter that led to the killing of four security forces personnel continued for the second day on Thursday as the police claimed to have "encircled" two Lashkar-e-Tayiba terrorists in the higher reaches of Anantnag district of south Kashmir.

IMAGE: Security forces fan out in Anantnag, September 14, 2023. Photograph: ANI Video screen grab

Gunshots were heard in the Gadole forests of Kokernag in Anantnag district in the early hours of Thursday as reinforcements were rushed to the area to take down the terrorists who were believed to be hiding in a natural cave in the mountains, the officials said.

Helicopters were seen hovering over the Gadole forests as army and police personnel maintained a tight cordon around the area, the officials said.

Sounds of firing could be heard throughout the day but there were no reports of any fresh casualties.

Earlier in the day, the police said it has "encircled" two Lashkar-e-Tayiba terrorists in Anantnag district where four security forces personnel -- Colonel Manpreet Singh, commanding officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Major Ashish Dhonchak, Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat and rifleman Ravi Kumar Rana -- were killed in the encounter on Wednesday morning.

"In solemn tribute to the unwavering valour of Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak & DSP Humayun Bhat who laid down their lives leading from the front during this ongoing operation. Our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LET terrorists including Uzair Khan," Kashmir Zone Police said in a post on X.

While Bhat was laid to rest at a graveyard near his Humhama family home, the bodies of Colonel Singh and Major Dhanchok were airlifted from Kokernag to the Army's 92 Base Hospital at Badamibagh this afternoon. Ranas mortal remains were handed over to his family in Kishtwar.

Officials said top army, police and civil administration officials will pay their last respects to the slain officers, before their mortal remains are sent to their native places for the last rites.

Meanwhile, scores of people turned up at the residences of Colonel Singh and Major Dhonchak, with some saying the Army should give a befitting reply to the ultras for the cowardly act.

A number of villagers turned up at the houses of Singh (in Mohali's Mullanpur) and Dhonchak (in Panipat) in the morning.

The families of the two slain army officers were inconsolable.

The mortal remains of the two are expected to reach their respective places by the evening, the family members said.

In Jammu, anti-Pakistan protests were held on Thursday in various parts of the city against the killing of four security personnel by terrorists.

The Panun Kashmir and the Eik Sanatam Bharat Dal paid homage to the personnel and demanded a massive operation against the terrorist ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.

Scores of BJP youth workers, led by Jammu and Kashmir unit president Arun Prabhat, held a protest at Pacca Danga assailing Pakistan for aiding and abetting terrorism in J&K.

They raised slogans against Pakistan and burnt posters of the country's flags. "Pakistan is rattled by the popularity of Bharat after the success of G20 Summit. That is why they are trying to disturb peace in J&K. They want to create trouble in the region," Prabhat told reporters.
In an apparent case of hate crime, a 17-year-old Sikh high school student was assaulted at a bus stop after an altercation with another teenager in Canada's British Columbia province, according to a media report on Thursday.

IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: David Ryder/Reuters

The incident took place on Monday in Kelowna at the intersection of Rutland Road South and Robson Road East where the high school student was allegedly "kicked, punched and pepper-sprayed", CTV news reported.

"Officers determined a 17-year-old Sikh student was either beer or pepper sprayed by another teenage male after exiting a public transit bus on his way home," a statement by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said.

Before the assault, there was "an altercation" aboard a bus, which resulted in those involved being kicked off, the police said.

While the police have not released more details, the World Sikh Organisation of Canada has alleged that the student was also assaulted while aboard the vehicle.

"Two individuals approached the student and first barred his entry onto the bus and then, once allowing him to board, began to threaten him with a lighter and photograph and record him from a close distance with their phones," the CTV news report quoted the organisation's statement.

"Monday's attack on a Sikh high school student in Kelowna is shocking and unacceptable," Guntaas Kaur, WSO vice president for British Columbia was quoted as saying.

This is the second such instance of violence against a Sikh youth riding public transit in the city this year.

Earlier in March, a 21-year-old Sikh student from India, Gagandeep Singh, was attacked in British Columbia province by a group of unknown men who ripped off his turban and dragged him across the sidewalk by his hair.
Colonel Manpreet Singh, commanding officer, 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Major Ashish Dhonack, 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat and a jawan were murdered by terrorists in the Garol area of Anantnag district early on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.

All Photographs: Umar Ganie for Rediff.com IMAGE: Retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Ghulam Hassain Bhat, supported by former colleagues in his hour of grief, at the funeral of his slain son, Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat.

IMAGE: DIG Bhat, sixth from left, offer prayers at his son's funeral.

IMAGE: DIG Bhat, second from right, at his son's funeral.

IMAGE: DySP Humayun Bhat's family members weep at his home, here and below. Mr Bhat is survived by his parents, wife and a son who is only 29 days old.

IMAGE: A senior police officer lays a wreath on DySP Humayun Bhat's coffin.

IMAGE: Senior police and J&K administration officials carry DySP Humayun Bhat's coffin.

IMAGE: Friends and colleagues mourned DySP Humayun Bhat on X, shattered by his death.

IMAGE: Funeral prayers for DySP Humayun Bhat.

IMAGE: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha pays homage to DySP Humayun Bhat.

IMAGE: Manoj Sinha condoles with DySP Humayun Bhat's father and family members at their home.

Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff.com

Feature Presentation: Mahipal Soni/Rediff.com
Rishi Sunak was rebuked by the UK's parliamentary panel for maintaining standards on Thursday for a "minor and inadvertent breach" of confidentiality rules related to an investigation into the prime minister's declaration of wife Akshata Murty's financial interests in a childcare firm.

IMAGE: United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and UK First Lady Akshata Murty arrive at Palam Airforce Airport for the G20 Summit, in New Delhi, September 8, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

The investigation of the House of Commons Committee on Standards arose in the context of the confidentiality rules that applied to an investigation by the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards into whether Sunak had breached paragraph 6 of the ministerial code relating to the declaration of interests.

Last month, the parliamentary watchdog had concluded that Sunak's failure to reference his wife's shares in Koru Kids arose out of "confusion and was accordingly inadvertent".

The related inquiry by the standards committee arose around whether his Downing Street spokesperson broke rules over such investigations being confidential until completed.

"The committee concludes that the breach of confidentiality was inadvertent and that Mr Sunak has acknowledged this, so the committee does not recommend any sanction," the committee said.

"This was a minor and inadvertent breach of the Code. Mr Sunak's staff should not have issued any statement about the details of the case under investigation without the approval of the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards. The Commissioner has made clear that it had no impact on his inquiry. Nevertheless, it constitutes a breach that should not have occurred," it notes.

"However, Mr Sunak acknowledges that with hindsight, he would have followed a different course of action. The committee would remind the prime minister, and all ministers, like all other MPs, that it is their responsibility, as individuals, to ensure that such breaches do not occur," it concludes.

Parliamentary Standards Commissioner Daniel Greenberg's investigation began in March in the wake of the government's Spring Budget, which included a pilot scheme of incentive payments of GBP 600 for childminders joining the profession, a sum that doubles to GBP 1,200 if they sign up through an agency.

Koru Kids was one of six childminder agencies in England listed on the government's website when the policy was announced, and Akshata Murty was listed as a shareholder in the most recently filed paperwork for the business on Companies House.

Greenberg's findings ended with a "rectification procedure" and without any sanction after he concluded that Sunak believed he had declared the interest as required but inadvertently confused two different sets of processes involved. However, as his findings included a breach of confidentiality rules, it had to be referred to the Parliament's Committee on Standards  a process which concluded this week.
The Biden administration has assured the Indian government of a quick investigation into the horrific death of Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula in Seattle after being struck by a speeding police patrol car and bringing to justice the police officers who were responsible for it.

Image used for representational purpose only. Photograph: Lindsey Wasson/Reuters

The US government swung into action after India's ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, strongly raised the issue at the highest level in Washington and sought prompt action on the killing of Kandula, and the highly insensitive behaviour of the police officer in Seattle in Washington state.

Kandula, 23, was killed in January after she was struck by a police vehicle driven by Officer Kevin Dave.

He was driving 74 mph (more than 119 kmph) on the way to a report of an overdose, the Seattle Times newspaper reported on Monday.

Kandula was in the crosswalk and was thrown 100 feet when she was struck by the police patrol car on January 23.

In bodycam footage released on Monday by the Seattle police department, officer Daniel Auderer laughed about the deadly crash and dismissed any implication Dave might be at fault or that a criminal investigation was necessary.

US lawmakers and Indian-Americans have expressed outrage over the death of Kandula.

The Biden administration has assured the Indian government of a quick investigation into the incident and bring to justice the police officers who were responsible for it.

Senior administration officials are believed to have assured the ambassador and the Indian government that the entire incident has been taken very seriously by them.

They are monitoring its investigation from Washington DC the progress of the case to ensure that there is adequate accountability.

Officials said that they were shocked and horrified at this incident.

The Consulate General of India in San Francisco on Wednesday termed the handling of Kandula's death as "deeply troubling".

"We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle and Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington DC for a thorough investigation and action against those involved in this tragic case," the mission said in a post on platform X.

"The consulate & embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all concerned authorities," it added.

Jaahnavi Kandula came here for graduate work from India. She was killed on a crosswalk by a speeding police car, and officer Auderer said her life had limited value. I thought of my dad who came here in his 20s. Mr. Auderer, the life of every Indian immigrant has infinite value, Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna said.

Anyone who thinks that a human life has limited value should not be serving in law enforcement, Khanna said.

Indian-American Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal said: This is appalling. I hope to see justice for Jaahnavi Kandula's family and accountability for those involved."

In a letter to the Kandula family, Seattle City Mayor Bruce Harrell said that the comments made by one person do not reflect the feelings of the Seattle city or the communities that call it home.

We recognise that Jaahnavi's death is a loss for our whole community  the loss of a young woman who had so much life ahead of her to do amazing things and share that joy with loved ones, Harrell said in his communication to the Kandula family.

Expressing his deepest condolences to the Kandula family, Harrell said the community is heartbroken and mourns alongside your family, friends and everyone who shared the privilege of knowing her.

"Her life had immeasurable value, and any sentiment, shared by one person, that expresses otherwise does not represent the very real feelings of heartbreak that our entire city has over the loss of your child. My prayers remain with your family at this difficult time," he said.

Expressing condolences on the untimely passing of Kandula, community leader Ajay Bhutoria said her death reminds of the importance of safety and respect for all individuals in the community.

We are deeply troubled by the unfortunate statement and poor conduct displayed by a Seattle police officer during this incident. Regardless of one's background or circumstances, every individual deserves dignity, fairness, and compassion," he said.

Describing this as unacceptable behaviour, Bhutoria said it is crucial that incidents like these are rigorously examined, and accountability is upheld to maintain community trust in the law enforcement agencies.

"As a community, we must unite to support Jaahnavi's family and advocate for positive change. We urge authorities to take swift action to address this situation and implement measures to prevent such tragic incidents in the future," Bhutoria said.

The Seattle Office of Police Accountability said that it has opened an investigation into the incident and they need to complete it before January 29.

Kandula was set to graduate this coming December with a master's degree in information systems from the Seattle campus of Northeastern University.

Her family said she was working toward supporting her mother in India.

The family has nothing to say, her uncle said Monday.

Except I wonder if these men's daughters or granddaughters have value. A life is a life.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. The German federal government does not recognize the independence of Karabakh and the so-called presidential elections held there on September 9, German Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, Trend reports.

The department noted that Germany, together with its partners in the European Union, supports efforts to achieve a long-term resolution of the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan within the framework of internationally recognized borders based on the territorial integrity of both states.

Earlier, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry called on the international community to strongly condemn the so-called "elections".

As noted in the statement of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, the holding of the so-called "elections" once again clearly shows that Armenia and the puppet regime created by it, which has taken steps to preserve the status quo and continue its occupation policy, are not really interested in the peace process, on the contrary, have taken the path of provocations and escalating the situation.
You are the owner of this article.
Proud Boys Leaders Sentenced to Prison for Roles in January 6 Capitol Breach

Two former leaders of the Proud Boys organization were sentenced today on multiple felony charges related to their roles in the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Their actions disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress that was in the process of ascertaining and counting the electoral votes necessary to certify the 2020 presidential election.

Ethan Nordean, 32, of Auburn, Washington, was sentenced to 18 years in prison and 36 months of supervised release.

Dominic Pezzola, 45, of Rochester, New York, was sentenced to 10 years in prison and 36 months of supervised release.

A jury convicted Nordean, Pezzola and three other co-defendants on May 4, of multiple felonies, including obstruction of an official proceeding and conspiracy to prevent members of Congress or federal officers from discharging their duties before and during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Defendant Nordean was previously convicted of seditious conspiracy.

According to court documents and evidence presented during the trial, the Proud Boys organization played a significant and often violent role in Washington, D.C., rallies in November and December 2020. In the aftermath of that violent conduct, Nordean and other co-defendants served as members and leaders of a special chapter of the Proud Boys known as the Ministry of Self Defense.

Beginning after Dec. 19, 2020, Nordean, Pezzola and other co-defendants conspired to prevent, hinder and delay the certification of the Electoral College vote and to oppose by force the authority of the government of the United States.

In the days leading to Jan. 6, Nordean and other leaders of the Ministry of Self-Defense hand-selected co-defendant Pezzola and others known as rally boys to participate in the attack on the Capitol that day. This group established a chain of command, chose a time and place for their attack and intentionally recruited others who would follow their top-down leadership and who were prepared to engage in physical violence if necessary.

On Jan. 6, Nordean, Pezzola and others they recruited and led participated in every consequential breach at the Capitol. The defendants directed, mobilized and led a group of Proud Boys onto the Capitol grounds, leading to the dismantling of metal barricades, destruction of property, breaching of the Capitol building, and assaults on law enforcement.

The group began their assault that day at 10:00 a.m. when Nordean and others marched an assembled group of nearly 200 individuals away from speeches at the Ellipse and directly toward the Capitol. They arrived at the First Street gate at 12:50 p.m. Nordean, Pezzola and other co-defendants led their recruits up the First Street walkway, breaching multiple barricades and tearing down fencing.

Nearly an hour later, when law enforcement appeared to have successfully controlled the crowd by pushing them back, the men again pushed forward. Nordean, Pezzola and others gathered at the base of the concrete stairs that led to the doors and windows of the Capitol with many of their co-conspirators and other men they had led to the Capitol. The group again surged toward the Capitol and overwhelmed officers who had been battling the crowd for nearly an hour. Pezzola smashed open a window allowing the first rioters to enter the Capitol at 2:11 p.m.

During the hearing, U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Kelly applied the enhancement for a federal crime of terrorism to the defendants convictions for destruction of government property.

This case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia, National Security Divisions Counterterrorism Section and Criminal Divisions Organized Crime and Gang Section.

This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office. The charges in the investigation are the result of significant cooperation between agents and staff across numerous FBI Field Offices and law enforcement agencies.

In the 31 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,106 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 350 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement.

Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

This story has been published on: 2023-09-14. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Nar was honored with the Golden World Award by the International Public Relations Association for its social initiative as the most successful CSR project.

The award-winning project jestdili.az, the first Azerbaijani sign language e-dictionary provides an opportunity for over 30,000 speech and hearing-impaired individuals to learn sign language in the mother tongue. Photo and video descriptions of more than 5,000 words have been collected in the online dictionary. By using the Jestdili.az resource, speech- and hearing-impaired people and their relatives can learn sign language online without going anywhere or without a teacher.

It should be noted that more than 200 finalists of the Golden Winners Award were selected this year, and the projects were evaluated by a 39-member international professional jury. The projects of world-recognized companies such as Turk Telecom, Shell, Toyota, SOCAR Turkiye, Hyundai, and MasterCard were among the winners in various nominations, as well. In fact, Nar was selected as the winner among hundreds of companies and became the first Azerbaijani company to receive this award.

Aziz Akhundov, Corporate Communications Director at Nar, noted that he feels proud that the company representing Azerbaijan won the most prestigious award in the field of public relations. At Nar, we are particularly sensitive to the sustainability and value of the projects for the country. Our social projects for hearing and speech-impaired people are of special importance in terms of making a positive impact on their lives and creating an inclusive society. International recognition and award given to our initiatives show that our efforts are aligned with the right direction."

The International Public Relations Association (IPRA) was founded in 1955 as a global cooperation platform uniting professionals in this field. Since 1983, the association has been closely cooperating with the UN and its sub-organizations. The IPRA takes the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) as a basis for the evaluation of the projects.

As the first Azerbaijani company to join the UN Global Compact, Nar builds its social responsibility strategy in accordance with these goals. The sign language project was also implemented in accordance with the inclusive education goal of the UN. The project was developed in partnership with "Support for the Deaf" and "Regional Development" public associations.

More information about all social projects implemented by Nar is available at nar.az/projects.

Nar currently provides high-quality communication services to 2.2 million subscribers. Nar is the leading mobile operator in the country according to the Customer Loyalty Index for the last 4 years. The mobile operator adheres to a customer-centric strategy, providing best-in-class service at an affordable price.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. Iran's Prosecutor General Mohammad Kazem Movahedi Azad has arrived in Azerbaijan on a working visit at the invitation of his Azerbaijani counterpart Kamran Aliyev to participate in the 4th meeting of the Prosecutors General of the member states of the Organization for Economic Cooperation in Baku, Trend reports.

Speaking about the importance of measures aimed at developing business relations between the Azerbaijani and Iranian prosecutor's offices at today's meeting at the Prosecutor General's Office, Aliyev expressed hope for the further continuation of bilateral cooperation.

He also appreciated the statement of the Iranian Prosecutor's Office regarding the prosecution of the person responsible for the terrorist attack against the Azerbaijani Embassy in Tehran as an important step in this direction.

Thanking Movahedi Azad for the warm reception, he said that the structure represented by him attaches great importance to the development of relations with Azerbaijan in the field of legal cooperation.

He also shared the pleasure of making his first foreign visit to Azerbaijan as the Prosecutor General.

Besides, he noted that the criminal case related to the attack on the Azerbaijani Embassy is under his control and has been sent to the court, which will render a fair judgment on it.

The parties discussed issues of legal cooperation between the two countries, including extradition, the transfer of convicts, illegal drug trafficking, environmental legal violations, and other mutually interesting issues.

They emphasized the importance of exchanging information in this field, held a useful exchange of opinions, and noted that cooperation on international platforms, including the Organization for Economic Cooperation, will continue.

Additionally, Aliyev and Azad discussed the criminal case of Farid Safarli, a citizen of Azerbaijan who was convicted in Iran.

The meeting was attended by the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Iran, Ali Alizada, and the Ambassador of Iran to Azerbaijan, Seyyed Abbas Mousavi.

An armed attack took place at the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Iran on January 27, 2023, at about 8:30 (GMT+4). The gunman turned out to be a man in his 50s who drove up to the administrative building armed with a Kalashnikov automatic rifle.

Earlier reports from the Chief of Tehran Police said there were two children in the car with the gunman; the security camera footage released later proved the man was alone. He entered the building after briefly waving his hand to the Iranian security guard outside. No attempts were made to detain the gunman, as he freely entered the embassy. The man managed to kill the head of the security service and wound two embassy guards. The shooter was eventually detained. The incident is currently being investigated.

Following the deadly assault, Azerbaijan evacuated its officials from the embassy, including those who suffered as a result of the attack, and completely suspended the work of the embassy in Tehran.

Farid Safarli (d/b 1997), a student at Jena University, Germany, visited Iran on February 20, 2023, and has been missing since March 4. Later, it was discovered that he had been detained in Iran.

The accusation of "espionage" against Safarli during the court proceeding was changed to "intent to commit espionage" on July 19. He was sentenced to a two-year prison term.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. Further expansion of ties with reputable international organizations active in the field of food security in the world has increased interest of foreign investors in Azerbaijan's economy and opportunities for production of local products, said Chairman of Azerbaijan Food Safety Agency (AFSA) Goshgar Tahmazli, Trend reports.

He made the remark at a regional event in Baku on "Improvement of food standards in Europe and Central Asia and expansion of participation in Codex activities".

He noted that the work carried out by the agency contributes to food security as well as the country's export potential.

"Thus, thanks to the activities carried out, permissions were obtained to export to the European Union wool, skin and caviar products of fish grown under aquaculture conditions," the chairman emphasized.

According to Tahmazli, the facts noted allow saying that cooperation with the Codex Alimentarius Commission (a joint intergovernmental body of FAO and WHO) contributes to ensuring food safety for both domestic consumption and export, helping to adapt Azerbaijan's food safety legislation to advanced international practices. This cooperation will also strengthen confidence in the quality of food products that will be supplied to world markets under the 'Made in Azerbaijan' brand.
NEQSOL Holding announced the appointments of Vugar Samadli as Head of Energy Business, Kadri Ozen as Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer, and Teymur Taghiyev as Chief of Staff, who joined its executive management team led by Chief Executive Officer Yusif Jabbarov.

Vugar Samadli brings 20 years of leadership experience in the energy sector. As Head of Energy Business of NEQSOL Holding, he will lead the coordination between the Holding and its energy group companies, including Nobel Energy and Nobel Upstream, as well as the new energy investments. Mr. Samadli will continue his existing responsibility as the CEO of Nobel Energy.

Kadri Ozen joined NEQSOL Holding from the Netherlands, where he worked as the Chief Communications Officer of Unilevers tea division. As Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer of NEQSOL Holding, Mr. Ozen will lead corporate communications, sustainability strategies, and external stakeholder relations to support Holdings global positioning and reputation.

Teymur Taghiyev, will lead the office of the CEO and oversee corporate resilience and crisis management while driving transformation and digitalization initiatives. While assuming the role of the Chief of Staff, Mr. Taghiyev will continue leading the Holdings critical project management function.

These appointments reflect our commitment to strategic excellence and innovation. Vugars proven leadership and expertise in the energy sector, Kadris exceptional track record in global communications and sustainability, and Teymurs multifaceted expertise in driving operational efficiency, transformation, and resilience will strengthen our foundation for continued growth, said Yusif Jabbarov, CEO of NEQSOL Holding.

Further information about NEQSOL Holdings leadership appointments:

Vugar Samadli, Head of Energy Business of NEQSOL Holding has two decades of leadership experience in the energy sector. Mr. Samadli began his professional career at BP in 2003 and joined Nobel Energy in 2013, where he was appointed as the CEO in 2017.

In his new role, Mr. Samadli will reinforce coordination between the Holding and its subsidiary companies, including Nobel Energy, Nobel Upstream, and new energy investments. Mr. Samadli will continue as CEO of Nobel Energy.

Vugar Samadli studied BSc in mechanical engineering at M.E.T.U, in Turkiye, and holds MSc, Executive MBA, and Ph.D. degrees from reputable Universities in the USA and the UK. Mr. Samadli was awarded The Taraggi (Progress) Medal by the President of Azerbaijan in 2019, for his contributions to the countrys oil and gas industry.

Kadri Ozen, Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer has extensive international leadership experience in the fields of Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability Strategies. He joined NEQSOL Holding from the Netherlands, where he worked as the Chief Communications Officer for LIPTON Tea and Infusions, which is the largest tea business globally and was recently sold from Unilever to CVC Capital Partners.

Kadri Ozen worked in Turkiye, the UK, the USA, Germany, the UAE, and the Netherlands in different senior leadership roles at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Coca-Cola Company, Merck Pharmaceuticals and Unilever. Earlier in his career, Mr. Ozen worked as an international news reporter and presenter for TRT, CNN World Report, BBC World Service, and SHOW TV.

Kadri Ozen is a Medical Doctor by training and holds an MBA from Emory University in the USA.

Teymur Taghiyev, Chief of Staff at NEQSOL Holding has over 20 years of experience in strategy development and implementation, business development, project management, compliance, risk management, and corporate affairs. In his new role, Mr. Taghiyev will assume a pivotal position to lead the office of the CEO while spearheading corporate resilience, crisis management, and driving internal transformation and digitalization initiatives.

Teymur Taghiyev will continue his responsibility to oversee the Project Management Office. Mr. Taghiyev joined NEQSOL Holding in 2018 after leading several large corporations' strategy and project management functions. He received his international law degree from Baku State University and his Executive MBA from Cass Business School, City University of London.

NEQSOL Holding is a diversified international group of companies employing more than 12,000 people in its business operations spanning more than 10 countries across the energy, telecommunications, hi-tech, and construction industries. The Holding has three head offices in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, in Baku, Azerbaijan, and in Kyiv, Ukraine.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin met at a spaceport in Russia's Far East in a summit seen as an effort by Pyongyang and Moscow to cement their ties in the face of economic sanctions and ostracism by the West. Kim, a third-generation ruler whose grandfather was installed by Moscow eight decades ago, vowed to "stand with Russia in our anti-Imperialist united front." An exchange of Russian weapons technology for North Korean conventional ammunition is expected to be a main outcome of the two-hour summit.
Following the United Kingdoms introduction of a new security act in July, the pro-Beijing Hong Kong news outlet Ta Kung Pao published articles claiming that British authorities adopted a double standard by enacting a law containing many powers more stringent and more likely to be used to flout basic human rights than the Hong Kong national security law.

Asia Fact Check Lab found that some of the papers claims are missing important context. While specific claims about several broad and potentially abusive powers granted by the law are mostly accurate, the paper failed to address fundamental differences in the rule of law between the U.K. and Hong Kong under Chinese rule.

Ta Kung Pao published an editorial on July 17 titled British national security law exposes the true face of anti-China politicians in the West while running one more on Aug. 15 titled I have something to say/The US and UK security laws are more stringent.

In both articles, Ta Kung Pao claimed British authorities demonstrated hypocrisy and double standards by introducing their own national security law after having severely criticized the Hong Kong national security law that came into effect in 2020 over its threat to the rule of law and international human rights and the citys Basic Law promised to protect.

The U.K. passed a new National Security Act, or the NSA, on July 11, which aims to increase British law enforcement and intelligence agencies power in order to combat hostile foreign states.

Ta Kung Pao also criticized the NSA for granting the British government numerous expansive and potentially oppressive powers. These include allowing the government to arrest foreign nationals, search and detain suspects without a warrant, conduct secret tribunals, and impose mandatory restrictions on the behavior and movement of specific individuals. The Hong Kong security law contains many similar provisions.

While the above powers do exist, a Home Office spokesperson told AFCL they are exceptional and only available to be used against people suspected of being involved in hostile activity linked to foreign states.

AFCL also found that the articles still failed to address fundamental differences in the rule of law between the U.K. and Hong Kong under Chinese rule.

Hong Kong authorities recently used an extraterritorial clause outlined in the regions 2020 National Security Law to declare eight fugitives abroad, some of whom are foreign nationals. (Photo/AP)

Differences in the rule of law

For one, the British legal system has significantly more constraints in place to curb potential government abuses of the NSA, including an independent judiciary and prosecuting attorney.

In contrast, China and Hong Kong currently have no legal institutions with sufficient power to stop Beijings interference in legal cases, particularly in cases related to national security.

Apart from that, British citizens can appeal to the European Court on Human Rights if they believe that their government has violated one of basic human rights ensured in the Council of Europes European Convention on Human Rights, including a fair trial and free expression. The courts binding decisions can compel the U.K. government to redress any part of the NSA that conflicts with these rights.

However, there is no similar international legal tribunal able to constrain Beijing from interpreting Hong Kongs national security law according to its own political needs.

The World Justice Project Rule of Law Index, which measures adherence to the rule of law from the citizens point of view, shows the U.K. and China ranked 15 and 95 in 2022, respectively. Hong Kong saw a drop in ranking from 16 in 2020 to 22 in 2022 after introducing the national security law.

The U.K. parliament recently enacted a National Security Act that would grant the country greater powers to combat foreign interference. The legislation passed after being approved by both the House of Commons and House of Lords. (Photo/AP)

Make contact transparent

The U.K. government has repeatedly emphasized that the NSA will not limit either freedom of speech or diversity of political opinion.

The governments primary objective is to ensure that individuals representing foreign powers are transparently registered. Once registered, these individuals are free to express support for any foreign government or criticize the British government.

There is nothing in the Act about expressing opinions sympathetic to foreign government, let alone to penalise that; its aim is to make contacts [with foreign governments] transparent, said Lord Wallace of Saltaire, a member of Parliament who participated in the acts amending.

Edited by Taejun Kang and Malcolm Foster.

Asia Fact Check Lab (AFCL) is a branch of RFA established to counter disinformation in todays complex media environment. Our journalists publish both daily and special reports that aim to sharpen and deepen our readers understanding of public issues.
The company has offered them little or no compensation for lost crops, they say.

A view of the gold-mining operations of China's Late Cheng Mining Development Co., Ltd., in Cambodia's Kampong Thom province, in an undated photo.

About 200 families in central Cambodia say they are in danger of losing hundreds of hectares of farmland  with or without compensation  to a Chinese gold mining company expanding its excavation area.

Late Cheng Mining Development Co., Ltd., received a license from the Cambodian government in March 2020, to explore more than 15,100 hectares (37,300 acres) in Sochet commune of Sandan district in Kampong Thom province for gold deposits. The area lies partly inside the Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctuary and near Phnom Chi, a mountain tourist area.

In August 2022, the government granted the company commercial exploitation rights, allowing mining in protected areas if regulations such as an environmental impact assessment were followed, according to a report by the Cambodian Journalists Alliance Association.

The US$13 million project is expected to create 300 jobs and yield 180 kilograms (400 lbs) of gold annually, starting this year, and to provide the government with US$250,000 annually in royalties, the report said.

Late Cheng also has begun to clear and occupy the land without publicly disclosing its environmental impact assessment, the report said.

The company has opened five mines in the villages of OPha Av, OPhro Huot, OKhvav, Sre Pring and Snong On, which will encroach on potato, cashew and mango crops. The communities are inside or near the Prey Lang Forest.

Most of the villagers are indigenous and have lived in their communities for generations, so they unlikely have land titles for their property.

When land concessions are granted to companies, villagers who live in the concession areas must forfeit their agricultural land but usually keep their homes and small rice fields, the article said.

Pressured to sell

Keo Mony, a resident of OPha Av village, Sandan district, said Late Cheng has already damaged his three hectares of potatoes.

He said a company representative pressured him to sell one hectare of land for US$3,000 and threatened to take it if he refused.

They said they would hunt down wherever the gold is located and take it, he told Radio Free Asia. They asked to buy the land, and said if we refused to sell it, we would lose it.

Some Cambodians hired by the Chinese company to mine the areas said residents of Sre Pring and Snong On villages have not yet received any compensation.

The workers also said they fear for their and the villagers safety because dirty, contaminated water from the mining operation has drained into nearby streams, so that residents can no longer use them.

Furthermore, company security forces forbid locals from entering the area.

Another resident, Toun Mao, who has privately mined for gold nuggets in Sre Pring village, said villagers who search for gold on the side have had to stop because Late Cheng and Cambodian authorities have ordered them not to mine on the companys land.



It affects our business because the Chinese take all the places that have gold mines, she said. So, this makes it difficult for us. They have equipment to find [gold underground], while we use our hands to find it, so theres no way we can beat them.

Sre Pring village chief Vong Hoeun said Late Cheng dumped wastewater into natural streams, causing local people to fall ill.

He asked relevant authorities to address the problem, but nothing has been done, he said.

Vong Hoeun also questioned the safety of the mining operations because four workers had died in a pit near the river, though the company did not disclose the deaths, he said.

Radio Free Asia could not reach Late Cheng for comment. Calls to Ung Dipola, director general for mineral resources at the Ministry of Mines and Energy, and to Sok Hay, the Kampong Thom provincial hall spokesman, went unanswered.

Losing land

Sandan district resident Seng Naroth said he worries that if the company continues to encroach on land, nearly 200 families will face severe poverty.

People need the land to cultivate, he said. If the authorities do not talk to the company or if they take the side of the company, then peoples land can be lost.

Am Sam Ath, deputy director general of human rights group Licadho, said he believes that studies must be conducted to properly assess the impact of land, people and the environment before the government grants concessions for mining or other activities.

Companies also must resolve compensation issues before starting operations, and authorities must investigate any work-related deaths, he said.

Although the mining company is a foreign company, Cambodian law applies, Am Sam Ath said.

If there are dead people at the company location, and there is no clear reason, it creates suspicion, so that the authorities must open a thorough investigation to seek justice for the dead, he said.

Translated by Sok Ry Sum for RFA Khmer. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster.
Microsoft and RAND Corp both warn of the potential of manipulation to swing votes.

A woman inserts her ballot into an intake machine during the U.S. presidential election in Los Angeles, California November 6, 2012.

Two reports released this month warn that China is using artificial intelligence, or AI, to influence public opinion in the democratic world, with elections in Taiwan and the United States next year most likely at stake.

A RAND policy researcher told reporters last week on the release of the companys study that logically Taiwans presidential elections in January 2024 would be the first major target of Chinas AI misinformation campaigns.

AI makes it possible for an actor such as the Peoples Liberation Army to create opinions that appear to be widely held, manufacturing a false sense of reality, a RAND director said.

Heather Williams, associate director for the international security and defense policy program at RAND, told reporters that the false sense of reality might be hyped projections about future disorder or disaster.

For Taiwanese voters, in other words, that might mean they were being told to vote in support of a candidate promising a deal with China or possibly face annihilation.

In the case of the U.S., AI would likely be of assistance in dividing American voters on issues theyre already divided on, a Microsoft threat analyst said.

An AI sign is seen at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, China July 6, 2023. Credit: Reuters





AI, which for many might be seen as a chat tool, in the hands of bad actors can be a powerful tool of malign persuasion. RAND and Microsoft are warning that democracies are vulnerable to such work ahead of key elections.

"We have observed China-affiliated actors leveraging AI-generated visual media in a broad campaign that largely focuses on politically divisive topics, such as gun violence, and denigrating U.S. political figures and symbols," Clint Watts, general manager of Microsofts Threat Analysis Center, wrote in a blog post subsequent to the release of the Microsoft report.

Spreading the word

The Microsoft and RAND Corporation reports say that China is already using AI to produce persuasive language and imagery to spread disinformation and foment debate on divisive political issues on which the West allows free discussion and China likely would not.

AI likely makes disinformation campaigns more plausible, harder to detect, and more attractive to more malign actors, the RAND report argues. This is because it dramatically lowers the cost of creating inauthentic (fake) media that is of a sufficient quality to fool users reliance on their senses to decide what is true about the world.

In short, China is harnessing extremely intelligent software that has learned from large-language models trained in the West to believe its narrative, not ours, the report says.

Social media accounts affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party have been using innumerable ex-China accounts on various internet platforms to propagate messaging and images that create misleading narratives, both reports say.

According to Microsoft, what it calls the threat landscape is increasing as Chinas cyber and influence operations show increasing sophistication.

RAND warns that AI is making it possible for China to harness armies of credible bots that can swamp apparently legitimate online news sources globally to create a mass disinformation campaign in Chinas interests.

Microsoft added that Chinas campaigns put multiple websites to use, spreading memes, videos, and messages in multiple languages, positioning Chinese state media as the authoritative voice on international discourse on China.

A wildfire

When wildfires devastated Maui recently, China's AI machine went into action, the New York Times reported Monday. In posts that spread virally over the internet a narrative sped globally that the fires were the product of a U.S. secret weather weapon.

The images that made that story credible, the Times reported, were likely generated by AI, making them among the first to use these new tools to bolster the aura of authenticity of a disinformation campaign.

Search teams inspect the Wahikuli Terrace neighborhood in the fire-ravaged town of Lahaina on the island of Maui in Hawaii, U.S., August 15, 2023. Credit: Reuters

The U.S. is simultaneously trying to engage with China and push back against China misinformation amid what may be a rematch between President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump.

According to CNN, 69% of Republicans and Republican-leaners still say Bidens 2020 win was not legitimate.

China, the Microsoft report says, has further expanded the scale of its influence operations in 2023 by reaching audiences in new languages and on new platforms.

These operations combine a highly controlled overt state media apparatus with covert or obfuscated social media assets, including bots, that launder and amplify the CCPs preferred narratives, the report says.

These accounts messaged in new languages (Dutch, Greek, Indonesian, Swedish, Turkish, Uyghur, and more) and on new platforms (including Fandango, Rotten Tomatoes, Medium, Chess.com, and VK, among others).

Edited by Mike Firn and Elaine Chan.
The man is accused of inciting 'violence' and 'hatred of the government' after buying the books from the UK.

Authorities in Hong Kong have charged a man with "possession of seditious publications" after he bought copies of the banned "Sheep Village" series of children's picture books from the United Kingdom.

Kurt Leung, 38, was charged with bringing 18 books into Hong Kong with the intention of inciting hatred of the Chinese and Hong Kong government, and promoting "feelings of ill-will and enmity."

Leung is accused of having three copies each of "The Guardians of Sheep Village," and other titles in the series -- which the authorities say glorifies protesters who fought back against riot police during the 2019 protest movement, "beautifying bad behavior" and "poisoning" children's impressionable minds.

One book characterizes the wolves as dirty and the sheep as clean, while another lauds the actions of heroic sheep who use their horns to fight back despite being naturally peaceful.

Five speech therapists who co-wrote the books were jailed for 19 months apiece in September 2022 after being found guilty of "conspiracy to print, publish, distribute, display and/or reproduce seditious publications" under a colonial-era sedition law.

Hong Kong's Ming Pao newspaper said the books had been mailed to Yeung from the United Kingdom, and were found following a joint search operation by the national security police and customs officials.

Chief Magistrate Victor So denied Yeung bail in a hearing at the West Kowloon Magistrate's Court on Sept. 6.

Li Kwai-wah, senior superintendent of Police National Security Department, poses with banned children's books on stories that revolve around a village of sheep which has to deal with wolves from a different village in Hong Kong, July 22, 2021. Authorities in Hong Kong have charged a man with "possession of seditious publications" after he bought copies of the banned "Sheep Village" series of children's picture books from the United Kingdom. Credit: Vincent Yu/AP

According to the charge, Leung imported the books with "the specific purpose" of inciting hatred or "provoking rebellion" against the Hong Kong and Chinese governments, as well as to "incite others to violence" and encouraging people to disobey the law.

London-based rights group Amnesty International said Yeung's arrest -- which came alongside the arrest of another man who has yet to be charged -- marked a "new low" for human rights in Hong Kong.

Peoples freedoms have been battered in Hong Kong since the introduction of the National Security Law in 2020, but even in that context this feels like another new low for human rights in the city," the group's deputy regional director Hana Young said in a statement at the time of the arrests.

"It is the latest example of the Hong Kong authorities using the colonial-era sedition law as a pretext for cracking down on critical voices," Young said.

"These ludicrous sedition charges must be dropped. No one should be imprisoned only because they own childrens books."

'Red lines'

U.K.-based writer and former pro-democracy District Councilor Franco Cheung said it was unreasonable to arrest people for buying books from overseas.

"We're not talking about fighting the government," Cheung said. "Even if there is a reason [for this], there should be a list of [banned] books."

"The blurring of the lines has gotten to the point where even schools and libraries don't know which books are acceptable and which aren't," he said, in a reference to recent culls of potentially sensitive titles from public libraries and schools in Hong Kong.

He said everyone in the city currently runs the risk of inadvertently crossing one of the government's "red lines."

"Those of us who are overseas don't need to worry or censor ourselves, and we must hold onto these books," he said. "We don't know when books that are being published now will no longer be published, or be destroyed."

Li Kwai-wah, a senior police officer of Hong Kong speaks in front of a screen showing contents of banned children's books during a press conference in Hong Kong, July 22, 2021. Authorities in Hong Kong have charged Kurt Leung with "possession of seditious publications" after he bought copies of the banned "Sheep Village" series of children's picture books from the United Kingdom. Credit: Vincent Yu/AP

The proprietor of online bookstore Misy Baby, which specializes in importing children's titles from democratic Taiwan, said she is already being more cautious about which books she brings into Hong Kong.

"You can get charges pinned on you for anything nowadays," the proprietor, who gave only the nickname Anna for fear of reprisals, told Radio Free Asia.

She said she was recently warned by a Taiwanese publishing house to be careful about what she bought.

"Some books published in Taiwan are about Hong Kong, but I don't buy them any more," Anna said. "Publishing houses ... have warned me ... not to make them public."

"The government can haul you in or shut you down for reading anything that is politically sensitive nowadays," she said. "I'd rather not take that risk right now -- I'd rather wait."

"Right now I'm too scared to read any sensitive books."



Translated with additional reporting by Luisetta Mudie.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. The Canadian delegation visited the Jabrayil and Zangilan districts during its visit to Azerbaijan, the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Trend reports.

Chandra Arya, MP, Member of the House of Commons of Canada, Ron East, publishing director of the prestigious Canadian Jewish media platform "Thej.ca", and Nigar Aliyeva, co-founder of the Azerbaijani weekend school "Karabakh" operating in Ottawa, participated in the meeting.

The destruction seen by the members of the delegation on the way to the Khudaferin Bridge made a deep impression on them. They said that they understand well how Azerbaijanis feel, who have been living with longing for their native land for 30 years.

Members of the delegation took a photo for memory against the background of the Khudaferin Bridge.

The guests were provided with detailed information about the infrastructure of this residential area, which was rebuilt based on the smart village concept in the village of Aghali in Zangilan. The guests who got familiarized with the conditions created in the kindergarten and school

In addition, the Canadian guests sitting behind the students' desks in the classrooms assessed the operation of such a school in the village of Aghali as a remarkable event and wished the teachers who answered all their questions good luck in the new school year.

The meeting ended with a commemorative photo with the teaching staff.

Afterwards, the guests visited the house of one of the residents of the village of Aghali. Welcoming the foreign guests with hospitality and stressing that they are happy to return to their homeland, the hostess asked to convey to the Canadian public the desire of our people to live in peace and harmony and the peaceful efforts of the Azerbaijani state towards the normalization of the region.

The current visit took place within the framework of the project of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora in connection with informing the international community about Azerbaijani realities.
Activists say the move violates international human rights treaties, while his wife fears he will be tortured.

University students put up a poster demanding the release of the 12 Hong Kong activists detained at sea by Chinese authorities, at Lennon Wall" in the University of Hong Kong, in Sept. 2020. Lu Siwei, who represented one of 12 Hong Kong activists, has been repatriated to China after being arrested in Laos en route to join his family in the United States.

Chinese rights attorney Lu Siwei has been repatriated to China after being arrested in Laos en route to join his family in the United States, in another example of transnational law enforcement by Beijing, rights activists said on Thursday, citing Lu's lawyer.

A senior official in Laos' Ministry of Public Security in charge of the case told Lu's Laos-based lawyer in a phone call on Thursday that his client was sent back to China last week along with dozens of other Chinese nationals, Bob Fu, president of the U.S.-based Christian rights group ChinaAid told Radio Free Asia.

The news -- which was also posted to X by Tokyo-based human rights activist Patrick Poon -- emerges amid growing international criticism of China's "long-arm" law enforcement and pursuit of dissidents overseas.

"Sadly, Chinese human rights lawyer #LuSiwei was deported back to China, according to his lawyer in Laos," Poon wrote, adding: "We should continue to put pressure on China, calling for his release."

Chinese rights lawyer Lu Siwei on a road, at an undisclosed location north of Vientiane, Laos, July 27, 2023, as he headed south to the border with Thailand. Lu, stripped of his license for taking on sensitive cases, was arrested in Laos. Credit: Anonymous Source via AP

According to an official notification dated Sept. 11 issued by the Chinese Embassy in Laos to the Lao Ministry of Public Security, Lu was "approved for criminal detention" by police in the southwestern Chinese province of Sichuan on Sept. 3, on suspicion of "illegally crossing a border."

The document, a copy of which was circulating on social media in recent days but which has now been proven likely genuine, informed the Lao authorities that the Ministry of Public Security of the People's Republic of China "requires that the suspect Lu Siwei be transferred to China, to be brought to justice as soon as possible."

It suggests that Lu was already in China when activists in Tokyo, including Poon, were demonstrating for his release outside the Lao Embassy in Tokyo on Wednesday.

Torture concerns

Fu said he was "shocked and disappointed" at the move, which he described as a violation of international law.

"The communist government in Laos has grossly ignored its legal obligations under international human rights [treaties] and violated international law under the Convention against Torture," Fu said.

"By deporting one of the most persuasive and well-known human rights lawyers of all time, Lu Siwei, it has set a terrible precedent," he said. "Every drop of his blood he sheds will be on the hands of the Laos and Chinese Communist regimes."

Lu, a prominent rights advocate who lost his law license after speaking out about the cases of 12 Hong Kong activists detained by the Chinese coast guard after the 2019 protest movement, was arrested in Vientiane in late July as he boarded a train for Thailand en route to the United States, where he planned to join his family.

Lu had been under surveillance in China since his attorneys license was revoked in 2021, with a camera installed at the door of his home. He had also been barred from leaving China.

Lu's wife Zhang Chunxiao told Radio Free Asia in an interview on Tuesday that she fears for her husband's safety and well-being.

"The thing I feared was suddenly right there in front of me," she said, commenting on being told that the police document seen on social media was genuine. "Before that, it just had a vague existence [in my mind], but then I saw all at once, saw clearly that this was real."

An activist, left, traveling with Chinese rights lawyer Lu Siwei, right, argues with police who were in the process of detaining Lu, near the Thanaleng dry port, south of Vientiane, in July 2023. Lu Siwei has been repatriated to China after being arrested in Laos en route to join his family in the United States. Credit: Anonymous Source via AP)

She said Lu will be sent to prison once back in China, and "probably tortured," and the couple's daughter may not see her father again for eight, possibly 10 years.

Last month, it was confirmed that free-speech activist Qiao Xinxin, who was reported missing in Vientiane amid reports of a cross-border arrest by Chinese police, is being held in a detention center in the central Chinese province of Hunan, according to overseas activists familiar with the matter.

Qiao, whose birth name is Yang Zewei, went missing, believed detained on or around May 31 in Vientiane, after launching an online campaign to end internet censorship in China known as the BanGFW Movement, a reference to the Great Firewall, according to fellow activists.



Translated with additional reporting by Luisetta Mudie.
The bill will end the practice of 'double taxation' for people and companies working in both the US and Taiwan.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Chairman Mark Liu speaks in front of the new TSMC facility under construction in Phoenix, in Dec. 2022. The Senate finance committee voted 27-0 on Thursday to approve legislation that would allow people and businesses operating in both Taiwan and the United States to only be taxed in one jurisdiction.

The Senate Finance Committee voted 27-0 on Thursday to approve legislation that would allow people and businesses operating in both Taiwan and the United States to only be taxed in one jurisdiction.

A key part of efforts to normalize ties between the United States and the self-governing island, which Beijing claims as a renegade province but enjoys close military ties with Washington, the bill now heads to the full Senate, where it is expected to receive similar support.

Sen. Ron Wyden, a Democrat from Oregon who serves as committee chair, said he expected the legislation to be encoded into the tax code within months not years given its broad support.

The momentum behind the proposal comes from the fact that the Senate, on a bipartisan basis, fully supports strengthening America's economic partnership with Taiwan, Wyden said at the hearing.

Taiwan is the United States 9th largest trade partner, according to the Census Bureau, with a similar volume of trade as with India. The island makes more than two-thirds of the worlds microchips, with one company, TSMC, responsible for 90% of the most advanced chips.

President Joe Biden tours the building site for a new computer chip plant for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company TSMC, with Chairman Mark Liu, right and CEO C.C. Wei in Dec. 2022, in Phoenix. Taiwan manufactures more than two thirds of the worlds microchips, with one company, TSMC, responsible for 90% of the most advanced chips. (Patrick Semansky/AP)

Wyden said the bill would simplify cross-border investment by making life easier for business people and companies operating in both the United States and Taiwan, and reduce the tax burden.

Let's say somebody from Portland needs to go to Taipei for three weeks as part of their job training, he said. Right now, they may have to fill out a Taiwanese tax return and deal with all kinds of U.S. tax filing headaches. Once we get this done, they go to Taiwan for a short business trip, they do their job, come home and not worry.

No treaty

Sen. Mike Crapo, a Republican from Idaho and his partys ranking member on the committee, said that the bill includes a clause that will prevent it from taking effect without reciprocal laws in Taiwan.

He noted that Taiwan was the second-largest export destination for Idaho products, with large exports of electrical goods and machinery, and that the islands extensive trade ties with the United States meant the reform would also receive widespread support in Taiwan.

Deepening ties with Taiwan and its vibrant democracy is in our nation's best interest, Crapo said. Taiwan is our largest trading partner with whom we do not have an income tax treaty.

For Taiwanese workers performing services in the U.S., this bill provides that they can spend up to half a year in the U.S. before subjecting their wages to U.S. income tax, encouraging those workers to invest more time in U.S. operations, he said.

But Crapo added that Taiwans unique status in Sino-American diplomacy, with the U.S. eschewing formal ties with the democratic island, meant the changes were not coming from a formal tax treaty.

Taiwan's unique status precludes it from dealing with double tax issues through a traditional tax treaty, he said, noting that the Foreign Affairs Committee usually takes charge of treaty negotiations.

Instead, he said, the Finance Committee was enacting the changes directly into the U.S. tax code, awaiting a reciprocal Taiwanese bill.

The process we're considering today should not be viewed as a new template to short-cut or get around tax treaties, the lawmaker said. Taiwan's very unique status requires a very unique solution.

Security aspect

Wyden said there was a national security element to the bill, with Beijing trying to intimidate and isolate Taiwan through diplomatic and economic coercion to force it to reunite with the mainland.

As the global leader in the manufacture of the chips used in TVs and iPhones, but also in advanced weapons and military equipment, he said, Taiwan plays a key role in the security of democratic nations.

Asia Pacific defense leaders of U.S and Taiwan pose during the Taiwan-U.S. Defense Industry Forum at the Taipei International Convention Center in Taipei, May 2023. (Chiang Ying-ying/AP)

But Wyden said the economic impact for the United States would also be significant, and build off the CHIPS Acts $52.7 billion of subsidies for chipmaking on domestic soil, which he said has already led Taiwanese chipmakers to shift some operations to America.

$45 billion was invested in the United States from Taiwan in the semiconductor sector, Wyden said. We anticipate billions of dollars more translating into good paying jobs across the country to ensure that our country continues to grow these investments in America.

We don't want these investments to fall through, he said, or go to other countries because we're not providing double-tax relief.

Edited by Malcolm Foster.
Updated Sept. 14, 2023, 5:50 a.m. ET

Russian President Vladimir Putin may pay a reciprocal visit to North Korea to crow about the unbreakable strategic partnership between Moscow and Pyongyang, on the back of the united front that both had pledged against democracies spanning from Asia to Europe.

North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency said Thursday that Putin was set to visit the North. The report came as Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that an official visit was not yet on the agenda, according to Russia's official news agency, Tass, on Thursday.



Russian state media first reported on Kim Jong Uns invitation to Putin at the banquet that was held after the landmark summit between the two leaders in the Russian Far East late Wednesday. The reports did not indicate Putins response.

But the Korean Central News Agency said on Thursday: Putin accepted the invitation with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history and tradition of the Russia-DPRK friendship. The agency said Kim courteously invited Putin to visit the DPRK at a convenient time, referring to North Korea by its formal name.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russia's President Vladimir Putin attend a banquet, in Russia, Sept. 13, 2023. Credit: KCNA via Reuters



Seoul on Thursday slammed both Pyongyang and Moscow, warning the authoritarian leaders of consequences over their possible military cooperation and potential ammunition deal.

We state that any actions by North Korea and Russia that threaten our security, and violating Security Council resolutions, will result in clear consequences, South Koreas presidential National Security Council said in a statement. South Korea assesses the recent development as a very serious, situation, especially the purported bilateral military cooperation including the transfer of intercontinental ballistic missile technology.

The statement referred to Putins offer on Wednesday to aid Kim in perfecting his satellite technology.

Enhanced cooperation in the aerospace industry may risk international security as it would most likely advance Pyongyangs intercontinental ballistic missile technology. Rocket technology can be used for both launching satellites and missiles. For that reason, the UN bans North Korea from launching a ballistic rocket, even if it claims to be a satellite launch.

Earlier on Thursday, South Koreas Unification Minister, Kim Yong-ho, told reporters that Seoul had assessed that Moscow and Pyongyang were pursuing a form of military agreement. Russia and North Korea must stop their self-imposed decline into further isolation and regression, and comply with international norms, including those set by the Security Council resolutions, Kim Yong-ho said.



Regardless of Seouls fury, Kim had described his ties with Putin as an unbreakable strategic partnership during the banquet, saying that his visit to Russia will be an important step in transforming the DPRK-Russia relationship, according to South Korean media, including Yonhap. Kim added that the two discussed the political situation on the Korean Peninsula as well as Europe, sending a fresh warning to democracies both in Asia and Europe.



The cementing of ties between the two nations may disrupt the U.S.s efforts in curbing Russias aggression on Ukraine, potentially prolonging the war, and containing North Koreas nuclear pursuits to enhance nuclear capabilities.



North Korean leader Kim Jong Un meets Russia's President Vladimir Putin at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the far eastern Amur region, Russia, Sept. 13, 2023. Credit: KCNA via Reuters
Pathein Prison,Ayeyarwady region seen in a photograph taken on Jan. 4, 2023

Four men from Ayeyarwady regions Bogale township have been given the death penalty for murdering a suspected military informer, residents told RFA Thursday.

The Pyapon District Court handed down the sentence Tuesday on Zaw Win Tun, Naing Wai Lin, Min Thu Aung and Pyae Sone Phyo after more than a year of investigation.

During the water festival in Bogale townships neighborhood six, a woman called Thuzar Gyi who was a moneylender with a loud voice was shot dead in the market, said a township resident who declined to give their name for fear of reprisals.

The four men have been taken to Pathein Prison, locals said.

Four people have been executed since receiving the death penalty following the February 2021 coup. They include prominent 88-Generation student leader Kyaw Min Yu (known as Ko Jimmy) and Phyo Zayar Thaw, a rapper and MP for the National League for Democracy, the party which swept to victory in 2020 and has now been disqualified from taking part in elections.

The junta is increasingly relying on the death penalty to suppress dissent by accusing pro-democracy activists of murder. On November 30 last year, a military court in Yangon sentenced seven students from Dagon University Students Union to death in connection with the killing of a former military officer.

Excluding the four men sentenced this week, a total of 146 people have received the death penalty since the coup, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn and Elaine Chan.
Tin Maung Swe, Myanmar juntas Ambassador to China and North Korea poses for a photo with Chinese President Xi Jinping after presenting his credentials in Apr. 2023.

Increasingly isolated on the world stage, Myanmars junta re-established ties with North Korea this week, renewing ties that were cut five years ago by the former civilian government in line with U.N. sanctions over the Norths nuclear weapons program.

Activists and analysts said the decision was an act of desperation for the junta, widely condemned for its 2021 coup and subsequent repression of its own people.

They are desperately looking for someone who will treat them as friends, said an anti-junta activist, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal.

Rebuilding the ties is also troubling because of the potential for North Korea to sell the junta weapons it will use to suppress its population, he said.

The Sept. 11 appointment of Tin Maung Swe, who is also Myanmars ambassador to China, as envoy to Pyongyang came as Kim Jong Un traveled to Russia to meet with his counterpart Vladimir Putin. The two sides are believed to have laid plans for military cooperation, including the transfer of intercontinental ballistic missile technology, and a potential ammunition deal.

The appointment [coming] while the North Korean and Russian leaders are meeting could be because the junta hopes that doing so will make North Korea help Myanmar as well, the activist said.

Moe Zaw Oo, deputy foreign minister ofthe shadow National Unity Government  made up of former civilian leaders and anti-junta activists  said the move will weaken regional stability and threaten the global order.

"That's why the international community needs to take this seriously and provide support for the [anti-junta] resistance [in Myanmar], he said. They should also be more supportive of our work against the junta and assist our efforts to remove it.

Assassination attempt

The activist called the move a huge insult to the countrys late independence leader General Aung San, citing North Koreas Oct. 9, 1983, failed assassination attempt of then-South Korean President Chun Doo-hwan, when agents set off a bomb at Aung Sans mausoleum in Yangon, killing 21 people and wounding nearly 50 others.

General Ne Win, Myanmars president at the time, cut diplomatic relations with the North over the attack. While relations were restored in 2007 by then-junta leader Senior Gen. Than Shwe, they were cut again in 2018 by the civilian government whose de facto leader was Aung San Suu Kyi, who is now jailed.

Lawyer Kyee Myint told RFA he was not surprised by the decision, given what he said was junta chief Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaings outspoken support for the North since the coup.

He noted that, not long after seizing power, Min Aung Hlaing threatened the people by warning that Myanmar could become like North Korea, a repressive police state.

[His statement] implied that if [the junta] runs the country like North Korea, the people would have it really bad, he said. I consider Myanmars resumption of diplomatic relations with a country that has committed terrorism on its soil as a collaboration of two terrorist countries."

The reestablishment of relations could also be part of a bid by the junta to buy weapons and jet fuel from the North using Chinese yuan, said the analyst, who also declined to be named citing security concerns, as sanctions have made it difficult to do so otherwise.

If that happens, they will reuse those weapons inside the country, he said.

The analyst noted that the military is increasingly losing troops in ground battles as the resistance becomes better supplied and experienced.

It looks as if [Min Aung Hlaing] isnt confident with the weapons he already has, the analyst said. That's why I think he appointed an ambassador to North Korea, so that maybe he can buy something from it through China.

Translated by Myo Min Aung. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Malcolm Foster.
A Thai lawmaker presses his government for an explanation why they were allowed into the country.

UPDATED at 10:16 p.m. ET on 09-14-2023

Between 80 and 100 heavily armed Myanmar junta soldiers have been stranded on Thai soil for over a week after they crossed the border, prompting a Thai lawmaker to demand an explanation from his government for why they were allowed into the country  and why the Thai public hasnt been informed.

That kind of violation of Thailands state sovereignty by close to 100 Myanmar soldiers is a national issue, not a border matter, lawmaker Kannavee Suebsang, from the opposition Fair Party, told the Bangkok Post.

There were conflicting accounts and explanations given for the unusual situation.

Kannavee told Radio Free Asia that the Myanmar troops had crossed the border on Sept. 3 after they were repulsed by an attack by Karen National Liberation Army, or KNLA, troops on their Htee Kalae Pae camp in Kyainseikgyi township of Kawkareik district in Kayin state.

Rebel fighters on the border have prevented the Myanmar soldiers from returning to their base, he said. Kannavee said residents informed nearby Thai soldiers about the presence of Myanmar soldiers in Le Tong Khu village, though no action was taken, the Post reported.

After social media posts about the presence of Burmese soldiers, a Thai army team engaged in negotiations between the soldiers from Myanmar army and the ethnic armed group to stop preventing the Burmese troops from returning to Myanmar, the Post reported.

The Burmese soldiers are from battalions 561, 339 and 559 of the Southeast Region Command, and they have been in Thai territory since Sept. 3, a KNLA official said.

Conflicting accounts

A spokeswoman for the Royal Thai Army dismissed Kannavees claim that Thai soldiers allowed Burmese troops to enter the country.

The Thai armys Naresuan Task Force, which patrols border areas in Tak and Mae Hong Son provinces, keeps vigilant of the border with civilian government agencies, said Maj. Gen. Sirichan Ngathong. We did not find them, she said.

Thai lawmaker Kannavee Suebsang of the opposition Fair Party delivers a speech in the Thai Parliament, in an undated photo. Credit: Thai Parliament

In reality, people commute along the borderlines and natural trails, so the Naresuan Task Force follows the traffic attentively with the border command centers in Tak and Mae Hong Son province to ensure sovereignty is not violated, she said.

The displaced Burmese soldiers are in a temporary safe zone and will return to Myanmar voluntarily when the situation there is safe, she said.

But officers with the Karen National Union, the KNLAs political wing, said the junta soldiers did not flee from fighting, and instead had intentionally crossed the border to attack rebel positions from the Thai side.

They sneakily entered by using routes from Thailand in the past, said Maj. Saw Win Myint of the Venom Commando Army, a special unit under the Karen National Defense Organization, one of two military branches of the KNU.

It will be the same now, he said. They will do it to prepare offensives or defensives or not to lose their base. It is impossible to cross into Thailand while fighting.

RFA could not reach junta spokesman Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun for comment. The Tak district administration department did not respond to email inquiries.

By mistake?

In yet another take, pro-junta experts said Burmese soldiers may have entered Thailand by mistake.

If they entered officially for joint military operations or exercises, then it would be official, said Thein Tun Oo, executive director of Myanmars pro-military Thayninga Institute of Strategic Studies. If not, [then] the crossing was an accident.

Myanmar junta soldiers man a security hut in Kawkareik district in eastern Myanmar's Kayin state, April 2021. Credit: Free Burma Rangers via AFP

A Myanmar activist in Thailand told RFA that if Myanmar troops crossed the border and fled into Thai territory due to the fighting in Kayin state, it was because Thai military personnel allowed them to do so.

They are on good terms, so they were allowed to do so, he said. But it may be difficult for Burmese troops to enter Thailand because the parliament has raised questions, and the opposition has criticized it.

When fighting raged along the Thai-Myanmar border in 2022, a Myanmar Air Force fighter jet intruded into Thai airspace, prompting discussion in the Thai Parliament, he added.

Although the Thai opposition MP said in the parliament that the border crossing was a violation of Thailands state sovereignty, the Thai military will not take any effective action since it has a good relationship with Myanmar, said Than Soe Naing, a political analyst.

Kannavee pointed out that Myanmar is violating their sovereignty, he said. It may be uncomfortable for the Thai army, but I dont think the Thai army will step up to tighten security.

Translated by Htin Aung Kyaw for RFA Burmese. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster.

Updates story to correct that the 2022 incident was a Myanmar Air Force fighter that intruded into Thai airspace.
More than 100,000 devotees have gathered for the teaching by a prominent lama, sources on the ground say.

A comparison of satellite photos of Gansu provinces Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture showing a vast gathering of tents between Sept. 3, 2023 [left] and Sept. 13, 2023. Many Tibetans have congregated for a key Buddhist event called a Kalachakra despite Chinese restrictions on non-locals attending. Credit: Planet Labs with RFA analysis.

Chinese authorities have restricted Tibetans from attending a key Buddhist event called the Kalachakra out of fear that the gathering of what sources on the ground suggest is more than 100,000 people could pose a threat to the government, according to Tibetans in the region.

The move to control access to the Sept. 15-17 sermon by prominent lama Gungthang Rinpoche Lobsang Jamyang Geleg Tenpe Khenchen in Gansu provinces Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture comes amid growing criticism of Chinas policies in Tibet, where authorities restrict Tibetans political activities and peaceful expression of cultural and religious identity.

In a Sept. 10 directive obtained by RFA Tibetan, authorities in Dzoege county  a part of Tibets historical eastern region of Amdo  said the sermon is only arranged for residents of [the city of] Tsoe (in Chinese, Hezuo) and that there are no arrangements made for Tibetan devotees coming to attend from other parts of Tibet.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama placing the first grains of colored sand to start the construction of the Kalachakra sand mandala during the 32nd Kalachakra Empowerment in Bodhgaya, Bihar, India on January 1, 2012. Credit: Tenzin Choejor/OHHD

To maintain the religious activities pertaining to Kalakchakra in order, and to keep everything in control including crowd and traffic, non-resident Tibetans will not be allowed to go near the teaching site, the directive said. Those [non-residents] who have already arrived are instructed to leave the premises.

The Kalachakra, which means infinite wheel of time in Sanskrit, is a sacred event where key Buddhist teachings are passed on to devotees. Only a very few qualified Tibetan Buddhist masters, including exiled Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, can deliver such sermons.

A Tibetan in the region said that the sheer size of the audience for the Kalachakra had prompted authorities to restrict access to the event.

The Chinese authorities have barred Tibetans coming from other parts of Tibet from attending the teaching because they are fearful of such huge gatherings and are being cautious of possible demonstrations against the Chinese government, said the Tibetan who, like others RFA interviewed for this report, spoke on condition of anonymity, citing fear of reprisal.

More than 100,000 Tibetan devotees have gathered for this Kalachakra but, besides residents, Tibetans coming from Qinghai, Sichuan and other parts of the region are not allowed to attend.

Satellite imagery analyzed by Radio Free Asia shows the sheer scale of the gathering. An image taken on Wednesday shows tents covering an area of about 340 hectares (840 acres).

Directive removed from website

The Gungthang Rinpoche is an influential religious figure from the Labrang Tashikyil Monastery in Gansus Xiahe county. In 2004, he was recognized as the seventh reincarnation of the Gungthang Rinpoche by the sixth one, Jamyang Zhepa.

The directive follows the earlier canceling of the Kalachakra in July when, despite obtaining permission from authorities, organizers were told they could not hold the event because it conflicted with the 70th anniversary of the establishment of Gannan prefecture.

Tibetans frequently complain of discrimination and human rights abuses by Chinese authorities and policies they say are aimed at eradicating their national and cultural identity.

The seventh Gungthang Rinpoche is seen as a child in this undated photo. Credit: Citizen journalist

Barring non-residents from Fridays teaching due to security concerns has also made authorities the target of their anger, sources said.

On Thursday, the Propaganda Department of the Communist Party of Hezuo City, which had originally posted the directive, appeared to have removed it from their website, with no explanation given.

Another Tibetan source told RFA that authorities may have felt helpless in the face of devotees pouring into the region for the Kalachakra.

The authorities have not been able to control and restrict them as per their directive, he said. There are more than 100,000 devotees  who have come to attend the teaching and, in order to avoid any sort of conflict and commotion, I think that the government is now giving up on it.

Translated by Tenzin Dickyi for RFA Tibet. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Malcolm Foster.

This story has been updated with details and attribution of the size of the gathering.
Chinese officials meet to further plan to Sinicize Islam and bind Muslims in China even closer to the state.

Performers in the role of rescue workers gather around a Communist Party flag during a gala show ahead of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese Communist Party in Beijing in June 2021.

In late July, a group of Chinese government officials and academics met in Urumqi to discuss how Xinjiang was implementing a national plan to Sinicize Islam.

The officials did not bring up the religious sites China has demolished, or the Islamic books it has burned, or the Uyghurs it has re-educated in concentration camps for any suggestion of Islamic belief, according to a Xinhua News agency summary of the event. Those actions proceeded under separate Chinese Communist Party plans.

But the plan they were responsible for, a five-year work outline launched in 2018, had not been fully executed: Islam itself needed more engineering, they said.

Specifically, China needed to do more to meld Islam with Confucianism. To achieve this, it needed to release a new translated and annotated Chinese Quran aligned with the spirit of the times.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is seen on a billboard with the slogan, "Administer Xinjiang according to law, unite and stabilize the territory, culturally moisturize the territory, enrich the people and rejuvenate the territory, and build the territory for a long term," in Yarkent County, China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in March 2021. Credit: Ng Han Guan/AP





Sinicizing Islam in Xinjiang should reflect the historical rules of how society develops, through the consolidation of political power, the pacification of society, and the construction of culture, said Wang Zhen, a professor at Chinas Central Institute of Socialism, the events sponsor

The institute is part of Communist Partys United Front Work Group, which controls Chinese religious affairs. It produced the Sinicization plans.

Religion viewed as threat

The Chinese Communist Party, or CCP, has long viewed religion  and its suggestion of any power above  as a threat to its primacy.

Over the decades, it has tended to persecute Uyghur Muslims in similar ways, under different propaganda slogans, with increasing intensity.

Uyghur security personnel patrol near the Id Kah Mosque in Kashgar, Xinjiang region in 2017. China's discriminatory detention of Uyghurs and other mostly Muslim ethnic groups in the western region of Xinjiang may constitute crimes against humanity, the U.N. human rights office said in a report in Aug. 2022, which cited "serious" rights violations and patterns of torture in recent years. Credit: Ng Han Guan/AP





But today, following a campaign the United States has labeled genocide, the party has practically eliminated any public practice of Islam in Xinjiang that it does not directly supervise. It is now working out the kinks in a new version of Islam which it hopes will bind Chinese Muslims, including Uyghur Muslims, even closer to the state.

The ultimate goal of Sinicization is to allow for that greater kind of supervision, said David Stroup, a lecturer in Chinese Studies at the University of Manchester. They want to bring everything under their umbrella of control.

32-point plan

Communist Party Secretary Xi Jinping first mentioned Sinicizing religion in China in a 2015 speech. He mentioned Sinicizing Islam specifically in 2017.

By 2018, the party had drawn up national plans for Sinicizing each of the countrys three major monotheistic religions: Protestantism, Catholicism and Islam, to be implemented over the next five years.

People stand in a guard tower on the perimeter wall of the Urumqi No. 3 Detention Center in Dabancheng, Xinjiang, Uyghur Autonomous Region in April 2021. After a U.N. report concluding that China's crackdown in the far west Xinjiang region may constitute crimes against humanity, China used a well-worn tactic to deflect criticism: blame a Western conspiracy. Credit: Mark Schiefelbein/AP





The 32-point plan for Islam highlighted issues in some areas that cannot be ignored, according to an English translation hosted by China Law Translate. Some places had been permeated with religious extremist ideology. Mosques emulated foreign architecture, Muslims wore foreign clothing and the halal food label was overapplied.

[S]ome negate the traditional ideology of Chinese Islam, the plan noted. In response, among other measures, the party would beef up its religious personnel, correctly explain the Quran and Hadith in a new annotated version, and promote using Confucianism to interpret scripture.

Using Confucianism to interpret scripture references a Qing Dynasty collection of Islamic translations and writings in Chinese, known in Western scholarship as the Han Kitab, which use Confucian concepts to expound on Islamic theology. The texts were produced in eastern China, never circulated in the Uyghur region, and are not recognized in Uyghur Islamic tradition.

The CCP is identifying this as the only correct religious practice in China, said Stroup. Using this kind of framing, to align Islam with Confucianism, align Islam with Chinese tradition, is a very selective reading of history.

Ethnic Uyghur people hold flags of Turkey and East Turkestan during a protest against China to mark the 14th anniversary of Urumqi riots, in Istanbul, Turkey July 2023. Credit: Murad Sezer/Reuters





In addition to the Chinese translation, the party is considering a new, Sinicized Uyghur translation of the Quran. Many Uyghur Muslims cherish a 1980s Arabic-to-Uyghur translation by the religious scholar Muhemmed Salih.

But book stores stopped stocking it around 2010. They replaced it with a widely criticized group translation, which sold for 1,000 yuan.

Salih died in police custody in 2018, at age 82.

The times are always changing, society is always improving, and so our understanding of classics like the Quran should change as well, said Peking University Professor Xue Qingguo, according to the Xinhua report on the Urumqi conference.

Translated and edited by Nadir, edited by Malcolm Foster.
Mai Phan Loi was freed just ahead of US President Joe Bidens visit to Hanoi.

Mai Phan Loi before his arrest in June 2021.

Vietnamese authorities have released independent journalist Mai Phan Loi 18 months before the end of his 45-month sentence, a family friend told Radio Free Asia this week.

Loi was freed on Sunday, the day U.S. President Joe Biden arrived in Hanoi for two days of meetings with Vietnamese leaders.

Loi, the chairman of the Scientific Council of the Community Education and Communication Center, was arrested in June 2021 on charges of tax evasion.

Prosecutors alleged he instructed his subordinates not to declare funds received from abroad, worth nearly US$83,000.

In the trial in early 2022, he was sentenced to 48 months in prison but the sentence was reduced after an appeal.

His release was a surprise to Loi and his family, a friend and social activist who wished to remain anonymous for safety reasons told RFA Vietnamese.

He was told by the prison to undergo procedures and leave the prison early on Sunday morning and his family was completely uninformed about his return, the friend said.

The friend said he believed the U.S. presidents visit brought about Lois release because the U.S. Embassy had campaigned on his behalf.

The U.S. State Departments 2022 human rights report mentioned Loi and three other civil society leaders detained by the Vietnamese government for tax evasion. It cited human rights organizations that said the charges were trumped-up as a means of suppressing freedom of speech.

RFA emailed the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi and the U.S. Department of State with a request for comment on Lois release but did not immediately receive a response.

Dang Din Bach, Mai Phan Loi, and Bach Hung Duong are shown left to right in undated photos. Credit: Facebook/RFA edit

Loi, 52, is one of five leaders of legally registered civil society groups arrested recently on charges of tax evasion under Article 200 of the Criminal Code.

The others are Nguy Thi Khanh, who won the 2018 Goldman environmental award; lawyer Dang Dinh Bach; environmental campaigner Hoang Thi Minh Hong; and Bach Hung Duong, director of the Center for Media in Educating Community (MEC).

Loi established MEC in 2012 with two others after a career in newspapers.

He and lawyer Dang Dinh Bach were members of Vietnams Consulting group on the Free Trade Agreement with the European Union (EVFTA).

Both were arrested in mid-2021 after applying to join the VNGO-EVFTA Network, a group of seven community service organizations established to coordinate EVFTA-related activities.

After Loi was arrested, several Western governments and many international human rights organizations called for his release.

The United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention issued a document saying his arrest and sentencing were arbitrary and urged Hanoi to release him.

While Loi is now free, the other activists have been less fortunate, in particular Dang Dinh Bach.

Bach is serving a five-year prison sentence in Nghe An province and was recently beaten up by prison guards after telling his wife he had been threatened by other inmates.

Translated by RFA Vietnamese. Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang.
In Turkmenistan, some teachers in the Mary and Balkan provinces have been going door-to-door looking for kids to fill their classes, many of which are half-empty.

Education officials in those impoverished regions are now contemplating merging classes due to a shortage of children born in 2017, a move aimed at optimizing resources in the face of the unexpected low enrollment, seen as a result of the country's yearslong economic downturn and corresponding population decrease as people seek jobs and better lives abroad.

An RFE/RL Turkmen Service correspondent in the western Balkan region reported a drop in first-graders in some schools of 40-50 percent compared to last year.

"Secondary schools...in Turkmenbashi, designed for 1,300 pupils, but for the last five years, they have enrolled no more than 950 pupils. There are four first-grade classes in this school. Last year, there were 27-29 pupils in each class, but this year there are 12 kids in each first-grade class," a school source in the Balkan region told RFE/RL.

Research in Turkmenistan in 2021 by the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) found that education wasn't provided equally in remote areas of Turkmenistan. While more than 70 percent of second- and third-graders have basic reading skills in the capital, Ashgabat, only 34 percent of the schoolchildren in Balkan Province possess the same reading ability.

While teachers in Turkmenistan are searching for students, other countries in Central Asia face a shortage of teachers, schools, and textbooks.

Kazakhstan

Kazakh officials revealed that in the new academic year, more than 382,000 6-year-olds had enrolled in first grades across the country.

But there is a significant lack of space in schools, with an estimated shortfall of 270,000 desks. That has led to tens of thousands of students having to study by splitting their time between morning and night shifts due to a lack of school space, even in the capital, Astana.

Parents residing in newly constructed neighborhoods in Astana are grappling with the challenge of finding available schools close to home. Astana officials say there are no school places for more than 26,000 children in the city, forcing many children to travel many kilometers away to attend school.

In eight city schools, students study in three shifts and, in more than 20 schools, the number of pupils exceeds the accepted class average, as classrooms are overcrowded.

Most of Astana's newly built areas need more state-funded schools and kindergartens. Due to this schooling problem, some people have contemplated moving away from the capital in search of more accessible and affordable educational options.

Erzhan Akhmetzhanuly, an education expert, told RFE/RL that merely building new schools will not fully solve the problem. Instead, addressing the issue of internal migration -- a major reason for the school shortages -- requires improving the quality of education in the regions.

"If 20,000 children are born in Astana annually, 20,000 come from other regions. Astana will never be able to find school places for 40,000 children [every year]. Therefore, this problem can only be solved by developing the regions," he said.

Kyrgyzstan

The new academic year in Kyrgyzstan was quickly followed by the dismissal of Education Minister Kanybek Imanaliev, who was relieved of his duties by President Sadyr Japarov on September 7. The decision was made in response to the pressing issue and huge public criticism of schoolbook shortages.

The shortage of textbooks in Kyrgyzstan and Imanaliev's firing heated up debates on the quality of public education. Officials say that to supply every student with state-funded textbooks, Kyrgyzstan needs at least 5 billion soms ($56.7 million) per year, but the state budget only provides a fraction of that, 324 million soms ($3.6 million) per year, and half of that money comes from a rental fee that is being charged to parents for use of the books.

In Kyrgyzstan, every student needs to pay 25 soms ($0.28) for each textbook provided by the school.

The country has more than 2,350 secondary schools, and almost all of them operate with a morning and an evening shift. School shortages are the main problem in the capital, Bishkek, and in nearby villages there are cases where children study in classrooms with 40-45 other students.

During a parliament session on September 6, deputy Sarapatkan Mazhitova said more than 150,000 6-year-olds began the new academic year, with some schools having 60 students per class, and situations where three children are sharing one desk.

"What quality [of education] can we talk about under such circumstances? There is a shortage of textbooks and schools. This creates a big problem for parents, who must buy textbooks with their own money. We allocated 152 million soms ($1.2 million) from the public budget for textbooks. However, the shortage of new textbooks is the main problem," Mazhitova said.

To help address the school shortage, Kyrgyzstan receives assistance from various foreign countries. Last year, Azerbaijan helped build a school in Bishkek and Russia started construction of nine schools.

Experts say this assistance cannot fully resolve the issues facing public education in the country. On top of everything else, some 250 school buildings in Kyrgyzstan are reportedly in critical condition.

Uzbekistan

While Tashkent recently built a new school in the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan on behalf of the state, the lack of educational resources inside Uzbekistan is a major challenge for its growing population: in the last few years more than 1 million kids are starting first grade due to the rapid growth of the population.

At the start of this school year, Saida Mirziyoeva, the head of the presidential administration and daughter of President Shavkat Mirziyoev, said the construction of schools in the country was not keeping up with the number of new children.

"If more than 1 million babies are born a year, approximately 1.2 million children will go to first grade in this new school year, and Uzbekistan doesn't have school places for 1.2 million students," Mirziyoeva said.

According to official data, there are 10,522 public schools in Uzbekistan, and enrollment for the new school year is 6.5 million students, resulting in overcrowded classrooms, with some teachers trying to teach 40-50 students per class. Even in the capital, Tashkent, schoolchildren do not have enough places and they must study alternately in various shifts, as in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan.

Komil Jalilov, a Tashkent-based education expert, says there are other more complex and acute problems in the public school system, such as access to water and proper toilets, in addition to the overcrowded classrooms.

"There's a shortage of qualified teachers due to low salaries. Many teachers prefer to work elsewhere, such as tutoring or private centers, to earn more money. Those who remain in school must take on more hours to increase their salary, which affects their work quality. Moreover, schools have insufficient funding, and the financing [across the country] is unequal," Jalilov told RFE/RL.

Commenting on attempts to modernize the Uzbek school system, Jalilov said the authorities often change their minds, shifting from one system to another.

"The problem, as I see it, is that the government does not have a clear idea of what school education is about and is experimenting too much," he said. "For example, there was too much talk about introducing Finnish standards, but now the buzz about Finland is gone and the government is saying that school graduates should know at least two foreign languages and master at least one profession. So, there are no clear mid- or long-term strategies, the government's vision on school education changes too often. This is dangerous -- we are always experimenting...with no research behind those experiments."

Similar Woes In Tajikistan

Tajikistan's population has skyrocketed to more than 10 million people in recent years and 2.2 million schoolchildren reported for school on September 1. Officials claimed the government constructed 312 new schools and nurseries in preparation for the new year. But the education system is reportedly some 4,000 teachers short of the total needed.

Muhammedsadiq Abdurazzakov, an expert on education in Tajikistan, is unhappy with new schools. "Magnificent schools are being opened, but there are no worthy teachers in them," he said.

Abdurazzakov also expressed concern about recruiting young graduates to teach in schools. "When a university graduate comes to school to complete an internship and does not even understand the curriculum of an elementary school, then what can he or she teach to schoolchildren as a teacher?"

Some experts warn that the shortage of teachers in Tajikistan is largely influenced by emigration. Due to economic stagnation in the country, the number of Tajik labor migrants in Russia has reportedly reached about 3 million.

Written by Baktygul Chynybaeva based on reporting by RFE/RL's Central Asian services
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. President of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) Rovshan Najaf has met with Hani Salem Sonbol, CEO of the International Islamic Trade and Finance Corporation (ITFC), Trend reports.

The sides expressed satisfaction with the long-term fruitful relations between Azerbaijan and the Islamic Development Bank, and the importance of projects implemented by the bank in Azerbaijan in various areas, including in the energy sector was noted.

During the meeting, information was presented on investment projects implemented by SOCAR, it was noted that the sustainable production of hydrocarbon resources, the development of renewable energy sources, as well as the introduction of digital and innovative technologies were identified as priority areas.

The parties reviewed potential opportunities for cooperation in the areas of infrastructure projects, renewable energy sources, decarbonization and digitalization, and exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has thanked Ukraine's Security Service and naval forces for their role in what he called the destruction of a Russian air-defense system in occupied Crimea.

"I thank you for today's triumph," he said during his nightly video address on September 14, referring to the destruction of Russia's Triumf air-defense system. "Very significant, well done!"

Ukraine's military again heavily targeted the Crimean Peninsula, which was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014 and is a key objective in Kyiv's ongoing counteroffensive against Russian forces in Ukraine's south and east.

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 counteroffensive, Western military aid, global reaction, and the plight of civilians. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war in Ukraine, click here.

The reported destruction of the air-defense system came a day after Ukraine heavily damaged two Russian warships in Crimea.

A Ukrainian intelligence source told Reuters that the air-defense system near Yevpatoria was destroyed in what he said was an overnight drone and missile attack conducted by Ukraine's Security Service and navy.

Commenting on the explosions in and around Yevpatoria, Ukrainian military spokeswoman Natalia Humenyuk told RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service that all sites struck in Crimea were linked to "Russia's aggression."

Videos and photos posted on social media showed what was claimed to be explosions in and around Yevpatoria in western Crimea.

The Russian Defense Ministry had said earlier that it had thwarted a Ukrainian drone attack on Crimea, destroying 11 drones. It also said it had halted an attack by five underwater drones on the patrol ship Sergei Kotov in the Black Sea.

In Russia's Kursk region, alleged Ukrainian shelling killed one man and damaged power supply lines, regional Governor Roman Starovoit said in a post on Telegram.

Earlier, the Russian military and news agencies reported that Russian antiaircraft units had downed alleged Ukrainian drones over Bryansk and Belgorod, two regions in southern Russia that border Ukraine. No casualties or damages were reported in those incidents.

Meanwhile, in Ukraine, a child was killed in Russian shelling in the south of the country.

The regional prosecutor's office said a 6-year-old boy was killed and four other people, including his 13-year-old brother, were wounded by Russian shelling in the village of Novodmytrivka in the Kherson region.

"Enemy shells hit a private house and its territory," it said in a statement on Telegram.

The Ukrainian Air Force Command said on September 14 that it downed 17 out of 22 Russian drones overnight in the Mykolayiv, Zaporizhzhya, Dnipropetrovsk, and Sumy regions of the country's south and north.

Earlier, explosions were reported in Russian-occupied Crimea and traffic across the bridge connecting the Ukrainian peninsula to Russia was temporarily halted as Russia's Defense Ministry claimed it had thwarted a Ukrainian drone attack.

Russian air defenses destroyed 11 hostile drones over Crimea early on September 14, the RIA Novosti news agency reported, citing the Russian Defense Ministry.

WATCH: A large fire was reported at the Sevastopol shipyard in Russian-occupied Crimea early on September 13 after what the Russian Defense Ministry said was a Ukrainian attack.

The latest attacks come a day after two Russian military vessels were seriously damaged in a large-scale Ukrainian military strike on a ship repair base in Crimea's Sevastopol, the main base for Russia's Black Sea Fleet.

WATCH: Remotely piloting fast, light FPV (or first-person view) drones, a Ukrainian aerial attack unit has become adept at chasing down Russian targets.

Reuters quoted a Ukrainian intelligence official as saying one large vessel and a submarine were struck in the attack and were likely damaged beyond repair.

"Those are significant damages. We can now say that with a high probability they are not subject to restoration," Andriy Yusov confirmed to Reuters without specifying the weapons used for the strike.

Britain's Sky News reported that Kyiv used U.K.-provided Storm Shadow long-range cruise missiles in the attack, citing unnamed Western and Ukrainian sources.

Crimea.Realities, a regional news outlet of RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, reported that at least seven blasts were heard at the site, with shock waves breaking windows and bright flashes and smoke visible in the sky.

The strategic shipyard on the peninsula builds and repairs ships and submarines of the Russian Black Sea Fleet. The fleet has launched numerous drone and missile attacks on Ukraine.

With reporting by Reuters
On September 17, 2022, thousands of people gathered in silence for the funeral of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian woman who had died mysteriously in police custody. One year later, a family friend who was there recalls the moment the crowds erupted in anger -- and the brutal police reaction that followed. It was the beginning of a wave of nationwide anti-government protests that have shaken Iran's Islamic regime.
14 Pensioner Bergen Kazhgaliev with his wife in Khan Ordasy



The 83-year-old Kazhgaliev was born and raised in Khan Ordasy. He worked almost his entire life as a history teacher at a local school. Kazhgaliev remembers when military tests began in the village and says that explosions were heard day and night.



Now, no one can confirm it, but I believe that many people died here from the nuclear tests. Many families had disabled children. There were cases when they were born without arms, without legs, he says.



Doctors at the time guessed that these were the consequences of the tests, but no one talked about it publicly. Everyone was afraid to go up against the authorities. In the 1990s, some families received benefits for disabled children, while others received nothing at all. Many of those who were born crippled have already died."
In a major show of defiance, Iranians have staged new anti-government demonstrations in several cities to protest the death of Armita Garavand, who succumbed over the weekend to injuries suffered in an alleged confrontation with Iran's morality police in the Tehran subway over a head-scarf violation.

Hours after the student's funeral on October 29, which was marked by the violent arrest of several civil activists, anti-government slogans and graffiti in memory of Garavand again were observed in various cities including Tehran, Karaj, Mashhad, Sari, and Shiraz.



In Tehran's Ekbatan neighborhood, which has been one of the epicenters of protests in the Iranian capital over the past year following the September 2022 death of Mahsa Amini while in police custody for an alleged hijab violation, protesters chanted anti-government slogans from windows and rooftops and "Death to Khamenei, the murderer" and "Death to the dictator" -- references to Supreme Leader Ali Ayatollah Khamenei -- echoed through the streets.



Such slogans were also heard in several other neighborhoods in Tehran including Amirabad Tehranpars, and Zafar. Protesters also refuted the government's narrative regarding Garavand's death with slogans like "They killed our Armita and blamed it on the hijab."



Videos also showed some protesters writing the name "Armita Garavand" and the slogan "Women, life, freedom" on the shores of Bandar Anzali in the northern province of Gilan.



Meanwhile, reports of "violence" by security forces during Garavand's funeral have emerged.

Reza Khandan, a civil activist and husband of human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh, confirmed his wife's arrest during the funeral. He said that during her arrest, she was severely beaten by security agents.



According to Khandan, many of those arrested during Armita Garavand's funeral were held at the Vozara detention center, "the same place where Mahsa Amini was killed by government agents last year."



The Fars news agency, which is affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), confirmed Sotoudeh's arrest, claiming she was detained for "removing her hijab and acting against society's mental security."

The Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI) said on October 30 that Sotoudeh was released after more than two hours of detention and slammed Iranian authorities for their treatment of those marking Garavand's death.

"Beating and arresting unarmed civilians for peacefully mourning yet another death of a young girl in state custody is a continuation of the atrocities the Iranian government is continuously inflicting upon the Iranian people," CHRI Executive Director Hadi Ghaemi said.

"These activists were at the funeral because Iranian authorities operate with impunity, killing and detaining people including teenagers for entirely peaceful actions, like showing their hair in public, or raising their voices to demand fundamental rights," he added.

The Coordination Council of Iranian Teachers' Unions reported the arrest of Masood Zeinalzadeh, a board member of the Tehran Teachers' Union, during the funeral. The association also announced that Mohammad Garavand, a teachers' rights activist, was arrested by security forces.

Rights groups and journalists say Garavand and two of her friends were confronted on October 1 by police officers for not wearing the mandatory hijab as they tried to enter a Tehran subway station.

One of the friends has said the officers physically assaulted Garavand, who later fell unconscious after entering a subway car. Officials have said Garavand suffered a sudden drop in blood pressure, fainted, and fell to the floor, hitting her head.

A source at Fajr Hospital, who spoke to Radio Farda on condition of anonymity due to security reasons, said shortly after the incident that Garavand suffered internal bleeding in the brain. She succumbed to her injuries on October 28.

Since Garavand fell into a coma, Iranian officials have pressured those around the 16-year-old student to avoid talking about the situation or later on commemorating her death.



Alborz Sadeghi, the son of Manzar Zarabi, a mother who lost four family members when the IRGC shot down a Ukrainian plane in January 2022, told RFERL's Radio Farda that his mother was arrested after being "severely beaten" during Garavand's burial.

Khandan said she had also been released.



Garavand's case, and suggestions of a cover-up by the authorities, has drawn parallels with the events leading up to the death of Amini.



In recent months, Tehran's municipality has deployed agents known as "hijab guards" in Tehran's subway to confront women and girls failing to wear the mandatory hijab.

Written by Ardeshir Tayebi based on an original story in Persian by RFE/RL's Radio Farda
August 25, 2023

It is as if our bodies are public property.

I was filmed while going to work and I confronted the guy, something I usually don't do because I'm scared of what they might do.

A guy was walking next to me and told me that I was being filmed by someone leaning on his motorbike.

I stopped. So did the person who told me. I confronted the man and asked him what he was filming, because what I wear to work is usually modest. I no longer wear a manteau, but I know how to dress appropriately for the workplace.

He gave me a smirk that sent chills down my spine. Looked at me the way a farmer looks at cows or sheep to buy.

I felt disgusted.

But that wasn't even the worst part. What he said next made me feel worthless.

He said with a condescending look that I was not worth his time, and I should move along.

What I did was almost a knee-jerk reaction. I slapped his phone out of his hand, although what I wanted to do was slap him across the face. I wanted to spit in his face. At that moment, all the years of oppression, patriarchy, and sexism turned into a flaming ball of rage.

He was furious, but his fury was nothing compared to mine, and I think he saw it when he turned back after picking up his phone.

I wanted him to say one more thing and the next slap would be to his face. I was ready for the consequences.

My fellow sisters were being held, detained, and imprisoned for far less. I was ready to pay my dues. I was ready.

But he got on his bike and rode off. Because a man -- the same man that alerted me to him filming -- came to defend me.

The guy thanked me for my bravery and asked if I needed him to walk with me the rest of the way. I thanked him and said no.

You think this is a story of bravery and change and men and women standing up for each other. But for me, it has been soul-crushing and spirit-shattering.

I can't forget the way he looked at me when he said I wasn't worth his time, or the way he felt entitled to film me in the first place. I feel more exploited than I have ever felt because that is the reality. They feel entitled, and they feel they own us.

I don't know how to regain the strength to fight.
Armita Garavand, the 17-year-old girl fatally injured in an alleged confrontation with Iran's morality police over a head-scarf violation, was buried amid tight security in Tehran on October 29.

Unconfirmed reports say several people, including two of Garavands relatives, were arrested during the ceremony at the Behesht-e Zahra cemetery in southern Tehran.

Civil rights activist Reza Khandan told RFE/RLs Radio Farda that his wife, prominent human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh, was beaten and detained at the funeral.

"A number of participants were arrested and beaten up. Nasrin was among them," Khandan said by phone from Tehran.

WATCH: Scores of mourners attended the burial of Iranian teenager Armita Garavand on October 29 in Tehran. Amateur video obtained by RFE/RL shows raw emotions on display at the Behesht-e Zahra cemetery and at a separate funeral ceremony in the Jaberi mosque. A heavy police presence was observed at both places.

He added that a number of those detained had been released, although others, including Sotoudeh, remained in detention. He said he hasn't been able to contact her.

Irans semiofficial Fars news agency later confirmed that Sotoudeh had been detained, charged with violating the conservative Islamic nation's head-scarf law.

Sotoudeh has previously been arrested and jailed after representing opposition activists, including women prosecuted for removing their mandatory headscarves.

Video clips published on social media showed a large crowds of people -- both men and women -- attending the burial ceremony.



Irans state media had reported Garavands death on October 28, nearly a month after she fell and went into a coma in the Tehran subway.

Garavand was reportedly confronted by the morality police in the subway at the start of October for failing to wear a hijab.



The news of Garavand's death came just over a year after the death of Mahsa Amini following her arrest by Irans morality police for an alleged head-scarf violation sparked nationwide protests and international condemnation.



A relative told Radio Farda that security agents had told the family they would be given Garavand's body under the condition that the burial be held in Tehran and not in their native village in the western province of Kermanshah.



"We live in Tehran, but we don't bury our dead [here]. We hope to receive Armita's body, the family member had said.



Shortly after the subway incident, authorities isolated Garavand family members and attempted to prevent journalists from reaching them. Security measures were still being enforced as of October 28, fueling speculation that authorities were worried about renewed protests in the country.



Rights groups and journalists say Garavand and two of her friends were confronted on October 1 by police officers for not wearing the mandatory hijab as they tried to enter a Tehran subway station.



One of the friends has said the officers physically assaulted Garavand, who later fell unconscious after entering a subway carriage. Officials have said Garavand suffered a sudden drop in blood pressure, fainted, and fell to the floor, hitting her head.



A source at Fajr Hospital, who spoke to Radio Farda on condition of anonymity due to security reasons, said shortly after the incident that Garavand suffered internal bleeding in the brain.



"Unfortunately, she went into a coma for some time after suffering from brain damage. She died a few minutes ago," the official government news agency IRNA said on October 28.

Garavand's condition triggered concerns in the West and among international rights groups after a purported video of the incident circulated on social media. The video shows Garavand entering the subway car, but it does not show what exactly transpired in the seconds before her body is shown being carried back out of it.



Amnesty International has issued a statement saying authorities should allow an independent international delegation, including UN experts, to investigate the circumstances leading up to Garavand's hospitalization. Tehran has left the request unanswered.

The United States on October 29 said it was deeply saddened by the death of Garavand after she was beaten by Iran's morality police for not wearing a hijab in public."

Iran's state-sponsored violence against its own people is appalling and underscores the fragility of the regime, White House national-security adviser Jake Sullivan wrote on social media.

Garavands case, and suggestions of a cover-up by the authorities, has drawn parallels with the events leading up to the death of 22-year-old Amini last year.

Aminis death soon after she was arrested for allegedly violating Irans hijab law triggered the greatest threat to the Islamic republic's leadership since the 1979 revolution.



State media has shown Garavand's parents speaking of various potential causes for their daughter's fall and injury.



It is not clear if the statements were made under duress, but the Hengaw human rights group, which first reported the incident, said on October 5 that Garavand's mother, Shahin Ahmadi, had been detained temporarily by Iranian government security forces.



Earlier this month, Amini and the Women, Life, Freedom movement in Iran that was triggered by her death were awarded this year's Sakharov Prize, the European Parliaments top rights award, the second honor bestowed upon Iranian women this month for their sometimes deadly struggle for human rights after activist Narges Mohammadi won the Nobel Peace Prize.

With reporting by dpa
Subscription to paid content

Gain access to all that Trend has to offer, as well as to premium, licensed content via subscription or direct purchase through a credit card.
PM Modi

First Visit After G-20 Success as World Leaders Laud Prime Minister's Achievements

NEW-DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was greeted with a magnificent flower shower as he arrived at the party headquarters to attend the BJP Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting on Wednesday. This marked the Prime Minister's first visit to the party office following the successful conclusion of the G-20 summit, which garnered international acclaim.

Leaders from around the world have lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the resounding success of the G20 summit hosted in India. BJP sources indicate that during the meeting of the BJP's Central Election Committee, the party may announce the names of candidates for key constituencies in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh.

Advertisement

It's worth mentioning here that in a meeting held in August, the BJP had already announced candidates for 39 seats in Madhya Pradesh and 21 seats in Chhattisgarh.


Election Commission of India

Focus on Voter List Correction, Youth Registration, and Election Preparedness

CHANDIGARH: In Anticipation of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission of India convened a pivotal review meeting in Chandigarh with Chief Electoral Officer Punjab, Sibin C, and all 23 Deputy Commissioners-cum-District Election Officers (DEOs). Led by Deputy Election Commissioner Hirdesh Kumar, the meeting centered on crucial aspects of election preparation, including the special revision of the voter list.

With 13 parliamentary constituencies at stake in the state of Punjab, this inaugural review meeting prioritized issues such as rectification of the voter list, the inclusion of new voters, and the removal of deceased voters from electoral rolls.

Advertisement

Deputy Election Commissioner Hirdesh Kumar underscored the existing disparities in the electoral roll, emphasizing the elector-population (EP) ratio, gender representation, and age group imbalances, particularly among young voters. The DEOs were tasked with ensuring the meticulous preparation of completely accurate voter lists, streamlining the entire election process. Special attention was also urged for economically disadvantaged individuals, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and transgender citizens.

Kumar urged the Deputy Commissioners to place particular emphasis on registering individuals in the 18-19 age bracket. Additionally, the meeting scrutinized the appointment of personnel for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. To maintain the integrity of the voter list, Deputy Election Commissioner Hirdesh Kumar directed the Deputy Commissioners to conduct thorough verifications before removing any names.

The Availability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at District Headquarters was another topic of discussion. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and prescribed guidelines for the transportation and storage of EVMs were addressed. Furthermore, the meeting stressed the importance of separate storage facilities and the involvement of political parties in the First Level Checking (FLC) process. The provision of essential amenities such as ramps, drinking water, and toilets at each polling booth was also reviewed.
Accused

Further investigation in the matter is underway

JALANDHAR: The City of Jalandhar grapples with an alarming surge in criminal activities, with the latest incident exposing the audacity of robbers who used a guise of piety to commit a brazen theft in Rajnagar. Harbhajan Singh and his wife Manjit Kaur, an elderly couple, fell prey to the criminals who posed as spiritual leaders and duped them into parting with their precious jewelry, amounting to a staggering Rs 16 lakhs.

The Shocking incident unfolded when the impostor, dressed as a 'Baba' (holy man), manipulated the elderly couple by promising to rid their home of ailments. With cunning precision, the robber seized the opportunity to carry out a well-planned heist under the pretext of providing spiritual blessings.

Advertisement

Harbhajan Singh and Manjit Kaur promptly reported the incident to the Bawa Basti Khel police station, detailing the theft of 5 Tola gold ornaments by the imposter Baba. The couple's ordeal began as they left the bank after withdrawing money, with the robbers in close pursuit. Among the criminals, a woman played an integral role, skillfully extolling the Baba's virtues to gain the trust of the unsuspecting couple.

The robbers executed their scheme meticulously. As Harbhajan Singh and Manjit Kaur exited the bank premises, the imposter Baba was strategically positioned, already waiting. The accompanying woman, part of the criminal gang, lavished praise upon the Baba, manipulating the elderly couple's emotions.

Upon reaching their residence in Rajnagar, the imposter Baba assured the couple that their household maladies would be vanquished and promised to double the value of their gold jewelry. Inside their home, the fraudulent holy man wreaked havoc. Seizing the moment, the couple was handed a white bundle and instructed to place all their ornaments inside it, with the promise of the jewels being magically multiplied.

Advertisement

Trusting the imposter, the family complied, surrendering their own jewelry as well as that belonging to their daughter-in-law into the white bag provided by the deceitful Baba. Unbeknownst to them, the imposter Baba swapped the bundle and swiftly exited the residence, shedding his disguise, and made a quick getaway on a motorcycle, accompanied by an accomplice. Notably, further investigation in the matter is underway and the authorities are actively pursuing leads to apprehend the culprits.
File Photo

Salvinder Singh Attacked by Unidentified Assailants, Rushed to Amritsar Hospital in Critical Condition

TARN TARAN: A Grave Incident has rocked the district of Tarn Taran in Punjab, where Salvinder Singh, an executive member of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) at the village level, fell victim to a late evening shooting by unidentified assailants. The incident unfolded when Singh was standing in front of his house's entrance at approximately 9:00 pm last night. Unknown individuals on a motorcycle approached him and opened fire before swiftly fleeing the scene.

The Wounded Salvinder Singh was swiftly attended to by villagers and transported to the Civil Hospital of Tarn Taran in a critical condition. Given the severity of his injuries, he was subsequently referred to Amritsar Hospital, where his condition remains critical. Local authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident, with a police team dispatched to the site.

Advertisement

Notably, the attack occurred on a day when Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal, accompanied by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, inaugurated the inaugural School of Eminence in Cheharta, located in Amritsar. Salvinder Singh, a senior leader of the AAP, had also been present at the event. The motive behind the attack and the identities of the assailants are currently under investigation as the authority.
Tricolor

Indian Flagpole Towering Over Pakistan by 18 Feet Awaits Grand Inauguration

AMRITSAR: At the Attari border in Amritsar, a symbol of national pride is set to reach new heights as India prepares to hoist its tricolor flag on a towering 418-foot flagpole, outstripping neighboring Pakistan's by a significant 18 feet. The existing Indian tricolor pole stands at 360 feet, while the Pakistani flagpole measures 400 feet.

The Inauguration of this monumental flagpole was originally scheduled for the near future, but due to unforeseen circumstances, it has been postponed. Nonetheless, the Indian tricolor is set to flutter majestically from this remarkable 418-foot flagpole soon. Situated just 100 meters from the previous 360-foot flagpole, this new addition has been crafted with a base elevated 4 feet above the ground.

Advertisement

The Amritsar Improvement Trust had previously erected the 360-foot flagpole in 2017, which prompted Pakistan to respond by installing a 400-foot flagpole along its border during the same year. This led to considerable controversy between the two nations over the act of flag hoisting.

Notably, the Pakistani flagpole is equipped with cameras, allowing for surveillance deep into Indian territory. In preparation for the inauguration of the new flagpole, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has positioned approximately five national flags, each measuring an impressive 120x80 feet. These colossal tricolor flags collectively weigh a remarkable 90 kilograms, symbolizing the nation's pride and unity.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. The International Islamic Trade and Finance Corporation (ITFC) sees potential in deepening cooperation with Azerbaijan, Hani Salem Sonbol, CEO of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC), told reporters, Trend reports.

"I think we will be more active in Azerbaijan. We see a lot of potential here. We really need to work with key stakeholders to contribute to the development of not only Azerbaijan but the whole region," he said.

Hani Salem Sonbol said he is confident that cooperation with Azerbaijan will be very fruitful.

"Now that ITFC is aiming for more, we have conducted quite important trade finance transactions with Azerbaijan in the past. I have held talks with officials here, the Ministry of Economy, the Ministry of Finance, and some big companies like SOCAR. We believe we have the potential to work more efficiently and cooperate more closely on important projects in Azerbaijan," he said.

Moreover, ITFC held a seminar on Islamic finance and Islamic trade finance in Baku on September 1214.

The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation is a member of the Islamic Development Bank Group.

The IDB Group maintains strong relations with Azerbaijan and aims to contribute to its socio-economic development. The group is implementing projects worth about $1.2 billion in Azerbaijan.
Martyr Colonel Manpreet Singh & Family

Tribute to the Sacrifice of Colonel Manpreet Singh, Survived by Wife & Young Children

SAS NAGAR: In a Tragic Encounter with Terrorists in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir, Army Colonel Manpreet Singh, hailing from the village of Bharounjian in New Chandigarh, Mohali district, Punjab, made the ultimate sacrifice for his nation. Born in 1980, Colonel Manpreet Singh had served in various states across the country after joining the army.

After his marriage, Colonel Manpreet Singh resided in Sector-26 of Panchkula district, Haryana, with his wife, who is a teacher in the Haryana government. The brave Colonel leaves behind a 7-year-old son and a one-and-a-half-year-old daughter, both of whom now face the profound loss of their father's heroism.

Advertisement

Notably, Lakhvir Singh, the father of Colonel Manpreet Singh, was a retired army veteran who had already passed away. Manjit Kaur, the mother of the late Colonel, who is approximately 65 years old, currently resides in Bharounjian village along with her second son, Sandeep Singh, and the extended family.

Sandeep Singh, Colonel Manpreet Singh's brother, currently serves at Punjab University in Chandigarh. Upon receiving the heart-wrenching news of Colonel Manpreet Singh's martyrdom, the village community rallied around Sandeep Singh and his family, offering their condolences and support during this difficult time. Local social worker Davinder Singh Bawaja also expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Colonel Manpreet Singh, who dedicated his life to the defense of the nation.
Sanna Marin

The Controversy-Plagued Ex-Leader Leaves Political Arena Amidst Surprises and Scandals

FINLAND: Sanna Marin, the former Prime Minister of Finland, has taken the world by surprise with her recent announcement of retiring from politics. At just 37 years old, Sanna Marin earned recognition not only for her political acumen but also for being regarded as one of the world's most beautiful leaders. Her remarkable political journey began in 2019 when she assumed the role of Finland's youngest-ever Prime Minister. However, her career took a turbulent turn in August 2022 when a set of controversial photographs went viral, sparking nationwide controversy.

The images in question depicted Sanna Marin in a compromising position, sharing kisses and posing topless with two women at her official residence. The revelation sent shockwaves throughout the country, triggering vehement protests and demands for her resignation from the opposition.

Advertisement

Prior to this incident, another video emerged showing Sanna Marin dancing with friends at a party. This incident ignited a debate across the nation concerning the propriety of a Prime Minister hosting such events at their official residence, raising questions about their privileges and responsibilities.

In yet another episode, a video of the then-Prime Minister surfaced on social media, revealing her dancing with friends under the influence of alcohol. Opposition leaders went further, accusing Sanna Marin of drug use during these gatherings. In response, she vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that she had only consumed alcohol and was willing to undergo a drug test to prove her innocence. Subsequent investigations vindicated her of any drug-related misconduct.

In a particularly controversial move, Sanna Marin hosted a party in 2021 at a time when the fear of the COVID-19 pandemic had confined many people to their homes and engendered a sense of apprehension in society. This event drew substantial criticism and backlash, further contributing to her turbulent tenure.

Advertisement

Notably, Despite her continuous involvement in controversies, Sanna Marin has now chosen to make a significant career shift, leaving the realm of politics to embark on a journey with a non-governmental organization (NGO). Her decision marks a turning point in her career, as she transitions from political life to work in the humanitarian sector.
Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin

Leaders of North Korea & Russia Confer at Siberian Rocket Launch Center

SEOUL: In a Significant Meeting at the remote Siberian Rocket Launch Center, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged unwavering support to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Summit, which lasted approximately four hours, raised concerns in the international community, particularly from the United States, that it might result in a potential weapons supply agreement for Moscow's involvement in the Ukraine conflict.

The Rendezvous between the leaders of Russia and North Korea underscores their shared interests, despite their isolation from Western countries. Notably, Putin seeks stockpiles of outdated ammunition and rockets compatible with Soviet-era weaponry, a resource that North Korea possesses in abundance.

Advertisement

This Appeal marks a departure from their roles in the 1950-53 Korean War when Moscow provided military aid to support Pyongyang's invasion of South Korea. Kim's choice of meeting place, the Vostochny Cosmodrome, Russia's paramount launch site, signals his desire for Russian assistance in developing military reconnaissance satellites, a capability he deems essential to bolster the threat posed by his nuclear-capable missiles. In recent months, North Korea has made unsuccessful attempts to launch its first military spy satellite into orbit.

Kim arrived at the launch center in his armored train, transporting his limousine from Pyongyang. Putin warmly welcomed him, and the two leaders engaged in a lengthy handshake lasting approximately 40 seconds. During their talks, Putin touched upon the Soviet Union's historical support for North Korea and indicated that discussions would encompass economic cooperation, humanitarian matters, and the geopolitical landscape of the region.

Indirectly alluding to the conflict in Ukraine, Kim affirmed his continued support for Moscow, stating, "Russia is currently engaged in a just struggle against occupying forces to protect its sovereign rights, security, and interests. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea has consistently expressed its full and unconditional support for all steps taken by the Russian government. I reiterate on this occasion that we will always stand with Russia against imperialism and for freedom."

Advertisement

In response, Putin expressed Russia's interest in assisting North Korea with rocket technology and satellite development, stating, "That's why we're here. The leaders of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) have a keen interest in rocket technology and are endeavoring to make advancements in this field."

Regarding potential military cooperation, Putin emphasized a thorough and deliberate approach, stating, "We will discuss all issues without any haste. There is ample time."

For Putin, this meeting with Kim presents an opportunity to replenish dwindling ammunition stocks after 18 months of conflict in Ukraine. Meanwhile, for Kim, it represents a chance to evade UN sanctions and overcome years of diplomatic isolation.

Advertisement

Notably, South Korea's foreign ministry spokesman, Lim Soo-suk, revealed that Seoul is closely monitoring Kim's visit while maintaining communication with Moscow. Analysts speculate that North Korea possesses a vast arsenal of antiquated artillery and rockets based on Soviet designs, potentially affording Russian forces a substantial advantage in Ukraine.


Skeleton Presented in Mexico's Parliament

UFOlogist Claims Ancient, Alien Skeletons Found in Peru's Cusco Mine

MEXICO: The Mexican Parliament was abuzz with intrigue as two mummy-like skeletons, believed to be between 700 to 1800 years old, were presented, sparking sensational claims of their extraterrestrial origins. UFOlogist Jaime Mawson introduced these remarkable specimens, contending that they were discovered in a mine located in Cusco, Peru, back in 2017. These claims have been bolstered by carbon dating, which indicates their age, as well as DNA tests that unequivocally establish their non-human nature.

These Enigmatic skeletons exhibit distinctive features, boasting three fingers on each hand and foot. Notably, their skulls are elongated, and their bones remarkably lightweight. An X-ray examination conducted in the Mexican Parliament further unveiled the presence of peculiar contents in their stomachs, including eggs and rare metals like cadmium and osmium.

Advertisement

Even more intriguing is the revelation that their genetic makeup differs by approximately 30% from that of humans. The presentation of these extraordinary findings has made Mexico the first country to officially acknowledge the potential presence of extraterrestrial beings on Earth.

Accompanying this disclosure was the presence of retired American Major David Bush, who asserted that the United States possesses evidence of alien existence. Bush had been in attendance when Mawson exhibited the skeletons to Mexican government officials and their American counterparts.

It is worth mentioning here that Mawson's history is primarily associated with UFOs and claims related to extraterrestrial life. In 2017, he claimed to have discovered five alien mummies, which were subsequently determined to be human infants, raising questions about the authenticity of these latest findings. The revelation has ignited fervent debates about the possibility of life beyond Earth.
Jaswinder Sidhu and Sukhwinder Singh Sidhu

Tarsem Singh Dhandwar's Debut Film Enters Official Competition at Prestigious Festival

LONDON: The Gripping Film 'Dear Jassi,' based on a harrowing real-life incident of 'honor killing' in Punjab, has earned a coveted spot in the official competition category at this year's London Film Festival, scheduled to commence next month. Recently, the film was featured at the Toronto International Film Festival, marking a significant moment for Indian-origin filmmaker Tarsem Singh Dhandwar, who directed the film. Additionally, 'Dear Jassi' serves as the debut project for filmmaker Sanjay Grover, the son of renowned Bollywood actor Gulshan Grover.

From Toronto, Gulshan Grover expressed, "It's a heartwarming love story, and my friend, director Tarsem, has done a remarkable job." The film narrates the tragic tale of Jaswinder Sidhu, also known as Jassi, born in Canada in 2000, who was brutally murdered in an 'honor killing' because she had defied her family's wishes to marry Sukhwinder Singh Sidhu, known as 'Mithu'.

Advertisement

Jassi's mother, Malkiat Kaur, and maternal uncle, Surjit Singh Badesha, both Canadian citizens, were charged with her murder in 1999. After years of legal proceedings, they were brought to India as per court orders. The ill-fated love story began in 1996 when Jassi, a Canadian native, met Mithu, an auto driver, during her visit to Punjab. Their love blossomed, leading to their marriage in 1999, but Jassi's family vehemently opposed their union.

In a shocking twist, Jassi's mother and uncle, residing in Canada, orchestrated an attempt on Mithu Sidhu's life by poisoning him. The attack in 2000 left Jassi deceased while Mithu miraculously survived. The Punjab Police categorized it as an 'honor killing,' gathering substantial evidence to support the claim. In 2002, they requested the Canadian government to extradite both accused parties to India, a plea that initially went unanswered. Finally, in 2017, the Canadian court ordered the accused to be handed over to the Punjab Police, following a judicial review rejected in 2018 by the accused parties' legal representation. Notably, The film 'Dear Jassi' powerfully delves into this tragic narrative, offering audiences a poignant and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
Canada

Punjabi candidates vie for a place in the political landscape alongside the major contenders, the 'NDP' and the 'PC'

CANADA: The Manitoba provincial elections are poised for an intriguing contest as nine candidates of Punjabi origin enter the political arena, adding a diverse and vibrant dimension to the electoral landscape. With voting scheduled for October 3 across all 57 constituencies, these Punjabi candidates are ready to make their mark.

The two major political parties, the National Democratic Party (NDP) and the Progressive Conservative Party (PC), are at the forefront of this electoral battle. Both parties have embraced diversity by fielding candidates of South Asian descent, including Punjabis, reflecting the multicultural fabric of Manitoba.

Advertisement

The Progressive Conservative Party (PC) has nominated a cadre of Punjabi candidates, including Navraz Brar from Buroz, Sumit Chawla from The Maples, Kirat Hare from St Boniface, and Paramjit Shahi from Fort Richmond. Their determination to contribute to the province's governance is palpable.

Meanwhile, the New Democratic Party (NDP) is countering with its own Punjabi candidates, with incumbent MLA Diljit Brar running in Buroz, Jasdeep Devgan seeking victory in Mac Phillips, and current MLA Mintu Sandhu representing The Maples. Each of these candidates brings unique perspectives and ideas to the table.

Diljit Brar, hailing from the village of Bhangchiri in Muktsar district, boasts an academic background and arrived in Canada with his wife Navneet Kaur in 2010. Settled in Winnipeg, the couple, both former students of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, have been active contributors to their community. Diljit's prior work at the Manitoba Department of Agriculture until 2018 reflects his dedication to public service.

Advertisement

Mintu Sandhu, another candidate, made his way to Canada at the age of 16 in 1989 and has since called The Maples home for 34 years. Running his own gas station for 18 years, Mintu's commitment to entrepreneurship is evident. Moreover, his role in modernizing the transportation system in Manitoba and creating job opportunities during his four-year tenure on the Motor Transport Board of Manitoba Infrastructure demonstrates his vision for a progressive Manitoba.

Adding to the mix, Manjit Kaur Gill is contesting from Waverley on a Green Party ticket, while Amarjit Singh is running independently from Southdale, further enriching the electoral diversity in Manitoba.

Notably, In the 2019 assembly elections, two Punjabi candidates, Daljit Brar and Mintu Sandhu, emerged victorious in Manitoba. Their journeys from different backgrounds to political success highlight the inclusivity and opportunities offered by the Canadian political landscape.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service or FSIS has issued a public alert for Costco's a ready-to-eat or RTE Kirkland Signature chicken tortilla soup product citing misbranding. The label declares the product, manufactured by Kettle Cuisine Midco, LLC, as gluten-free, which is a false negative claim.

The affected product is 2-lb. tubs containing "KIRKLAND Signature CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP WITH WHITE CHICKEN MEAT" with "USE BY: 11/23/23" and lot code 1394066.

On September 9, food manufacturer Kettle Cuisine had informed Costco that Kirkland Signature brand Chicken Tortilla Soup with the same lot code has been recalled citing undeclared gluten.

The FSIS now issued the warning to ensure that consumers with reactions to gluten are aware that these products should not be consumed. The agency did not initiate a recall as the affected products are no longer available for purchase.

The FSIS action follows the firm's notification that laboratory testing found gluten in the chicken tortilla soup, which is labeled as gluten-free.

However, there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products to date.

The ready-to-eat chicken tortilla soup items, with establishment number "P-18468" inside the USDA mark of inspection, were produced on July 26. These items were shipped to retail locations in Alaska, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington.

Over concerns that some products may be in consumers' refrigerators or freezers, the agency urged them to throw away or return them to the place of purchase.

In similar incidents, the FSIS in early August warned against certain ready-to-eat or RTE salads and wraps with meat and poultry due to concerns that may contain contaminated lettuce with deer feces.

The agency also issued a public health alert against certain raw beef product sold at select Aldi stores citing possible contamination with extraneous material, specifically soft, clear plastic.

For More Such Health News, visit rttnews.com

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
[L-R] Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic and Student Affairs, Professor Mabokang Monnapula-Mapesela; Director of Postgraduate Studies, Professor Sioux McKenna; Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sizwe Mabizela; former Deputy-Vice Chancellor Professor Chrissie Boughey; Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research, Innovation, and Strategic Partnerships, Dr Nomakwezi Mzilikazi [PIC CREDIT: Lindokhule Mnqayi]

By Zindzi Nkunzi

A recent book award lecture was held in honour of former Deputy-Vice Chancellor Professor Chrissie Boughey and the Director of Postgraduate Studies, Professor Sioux McKenna, for their collaborative book, Understanding Higher Education: Alternative Perspectives.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sizwe Mabizela, attended the event, as well as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic and Student Affairs, Professor Mabokang Monnapula-Mapesela; Registrar, Professor Adele Moodly; the Deans, Heads of Departments, lecturers, students, members of senate, family, and friends of Professors Boughey and McKenna.

Before introducing the two Professors, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research, Innovation, and Strategic Partnerships, Dr Nomakwezi Mzilikazi extended a warm welcome to all attendees with a special welcome to the two professors' family and friends, collaborators and colleagues.

This evening, we have the presentation of the book award lecture that follows the university recognising the recent published work of current members or Rhodes University-affiliated authors, which advances knowledge and understanding and brings undoubted credit to the university by virtue of the contribution that the book makes to scholarly literature or the discipline within which it is authored.

Published in 2021, the book draws on the South African context, looking at the shifts in higher education worldwide in the last two decades. The book responds to the calls for institutional transformation by arguing for a social account of teaching and learning that contests dominant understandings of students as decontextualised learners premised on the idea that university is a meritocracy. Additionally, it argues for alternative ways of seeing higher education that can inform practising policy in South Africa and beyond.

In the journey to find alternative ways to understand higher education, Professor Boughey stated, We should be in the forefront of ideas about a new higher education system.

Professor Boughey spoke on the four purposes stipulated by White, 1997. Over time, the purpose to contribute to the development of a skilled workforce has become dominant to the extent that the other purposes are now mostly overlooked, she said.

We find the idea that universities exist to produce these workers for the global economy problematic, and we were concerned about the dominance of one purpose over others.

Internationally recognised for her research on the aims and purposes of higher education, Professor McKenna shared that over the years, the efficiency agenda meant that the importance of the academic development shifted from making students fit in to making students complete in regulation time.

We are all part of the system and continue to be, but with the engagement of critical pedagogy literature, we started to come to this understanding that universities are deeply political, the university system serves to reproduce social inequalities in many devasting ways, Professor McKenna said.

The book has been critically acclaimed and commended by several role players for this monumental research, describing the book as very insightful, informative, and an excellent analysis and critique of higher education.
Professor Siphokazi Magadla, Head of Political and International Studies at Rhodes University [PIC CREDIT: Gavin Gaka]

By Matimu Shivambu and Bongile Sigonyela

The Annual Rhodes University Postgraduate Conference enthusiastically kicked off on 8 September 2023. This two-day event, themed "Shaking the Table," brought together diverse students and academics from across all faculties at Rhodes University and beyond to exchange knowledge, engage in meaningful discourse, and present their cutting-edge research projects.

Rhodes University Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships, Dr Nomakwezi Mzilikazi, took the stage to deliver the official welcome address. She underscored the conference's significance as a highlight on the postgraduate calendar, serving as an invaluable platform for showcasing interdisciplinary research endeavours. Moreover, this event presented an unparalleled opportunity for networking and forging lasting connections among like-minded individuals. Dr Mzilikazi emphasised Rhodes University's unwavering commitment to research excellence, proudly housing various departments, units, and research institutes.

Furthermore, Dr Mzilikazi encouraged conference attendees to leverage this unique gathering to share their research findings, seek potential collaborators, and establish their research profiles. After all, they represent the future generation of researchers shaping our collective understanding of the world.

The conference organisers ensured a dynamic experience for attendees by dividing them into seven parallel presentation venues. Venue Seven stood out as it accommodated digital research presentations, catering to those who could not physically attend but were still eager to share their valuable contributions. As the conference proceedings continued, the Director of Rhodes University's Centre for Postgraduate Studies (CPGS), Professor Sioux McKenna, introduced the esteemed keynote speaker, the Head of the Department of Rhodes University Political and International Studies, Professor Siphokazi Magadla.

Professor Magadla commenced her keynote address with grace and enthusiasm. Her expertise encompasses wars and militarism in Africa, the armed struggle in South Africa, women's studies, African feminism, gender, and citizenship. She is also the author of the illuminating book, "Guerrillas and Combative Mothers: Women and the Armed Struggle in South Africa." Professor Magadla's contributions extend beyond her roles at Rhodes University, as she actively engages in impactful research that extends her reach globally.

According to Prof Magadla, African researchers carry a profound responsibility to provide solutions to address the persistent regional and global crises of inequality, climate change, and more. To underscore the urgency of these issues, Professor Magadla invoked the words of Rhodes University Honorary Doctoral Recipient Professor Janet Cherry, who observed that "we are running out of time." This underscores researchers' need to identify gaps and actively contribute to positive change.

Professor Magadla argued that the duty of African researchers extends to building solutions and conducting research that has a transformative impact on society. She highlighted the example of Distinguished Professor Tebello Nyokong epitomising the concept of building society through research solutions. According to Professor Magadla, this kind of work demands unwavering passion and boundless curiosity, traits essential for those who aspire to achieve a level of impact akin to Professor Nyokong's.

In her passionate address, Professor Magadla highlighted the need for African researchers to embrace a "blues mentality," symbolising resilience, creativity, and adaptability which she termed Ukufukuza. This mentality, she argued, is vital for those who aspire to make a meaningful impact in the field of research.

Moreover, she contended that research offers a unique opportunity to explore and address various challenges and perspectives. She drew attention to Africa's stark realities of war and youth unemployment, prompting the question: How can African researchers contribute to forging a better path forward? Professor Magadla encouraged African scholars to build enduring research projects that yield lasting benefits, like the work of Professor Nyokong.

Opening the second day of the conference, Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sizwe Mabizela, classified this years conference as the most crucial postgraduate event in the history of the postgraduate conference at Rhodes University. This year's conference sought to change the perception of an academic conference, what it means to be a researcher today and what needs to be improved in imparting knowledge within and beyond academia.

Professor Mabizela emphasised the need for Rhodes University to distinguish itself as a research-intensive university where creativity is nurtured. "At Rhodes University, ideas are the lifeblood of this intensive research university," Professor Mabizela said. He said Higher Education has a purpose to fulfil within its surrounding communities and on a global scale. Rhodes University has always been at the forefront of innovation and development and continuously works to address the concerns of its surrounding community and contributes to global solutions.

Mthunzikazi Mbungwana, a Lecturer in the African Studies Section at Rhodes University, whose interests include isiXhosa literature, specifically about multidisciplinary ways of growing the language using popular culture, spoke about the role of modern-day South African poets, which is representation and active use of the language they possess.

"There is a gap we are trying to fill. Stakeholders in isiXhosa literature are trying to erode the many misconceptions about isiXhosa literature. There is a need for the growth and development of the isiXhosa language for it to reflect the current era. It is vital that the content produced appeals to young people who often shy away from pursuing isiXhosa as a career path for fear of being unemployable," she said.

The overarching theme of this year's conference was to encourage all forms of research methods, including those that deviate from the academic traditions to share knowledge and educate on various issues and across disciplines, including through using "unconventional" means such as drama, art, music and so forth.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. Latvia is actively cooperating with Central Asia, in order to connect the TRACECA corridor with the Baltic States, including connections to Scandinavia and Western Europe with regular ferry lines, a source at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia told Trend.

"Our transport and logistics systems continue to serve as a gateway for Central Asian export to Europe. Cargo turnover between the Central Asian countries and Latvia is growing and Latvian ports are actively providing cargo distribution services of bulk, liquid and general cargoes from Central Asia. Also, road carriers from Central Asia are actively using the route via Latvian ports to access Northern and Western Europe," the ministry said.

According to the MFA, secure, stable and reliable supply chains between the EU and Central Asia have become the highest priority, since traditional logistics chains are broken. In this regard, trade and transport connectivity issues have to be addressed immediately.

"We eagerly awaited the results of the EBRD Study, since the development of alternative routes stands high on our agenda already for a while. Together with the industry we are actively identifying new clients, who can use new alternative routes. Moreover, in a long term we also are looking forward to see the Rail Baltica project to be implemented, which will open new possibilities for the transport connectivity," the source added.

Moreover, as the ministry pointed out, Latvia is one of the EU Member States that is actively committed to strengthening relations between the EU and Central Asia.

"We welcome the active dialogue and the regular exchange of high-level visits between the EU and Central Asia and we are truly glad to see that Central Asia is also interested to deepen cooperation with the EU. We should take advantage of the Global Gateway that aims to create smart, sustainable and secure links with countries around the world in the thematic areas of digitalization, energy, transport, education," the ministry said.
As per current rules, it is mandatory for all cars to have at least driver and front passenger airbags

Road safety continues to be a major challenge in the country. Thousands of people lose their lives each year in road accidents. There are major injuries as well. Road accidents result in huge financial challenges for family members. The government has taken various measures to prevent road accidents. But it appears that rules are not being followed properly by people. There is also a gap in enforcement of traffic rules at local level.

Government to focus on creating awareness through Bharat NCAP

One of the road safety initiatives that was proposed last year was to make 6-airbags mandatory for all passenger vehicles. The plan was later pushed back for a year. The 6-airbags mandatory rule was to come into effect from October 01, 2023. However, as per a statement given by Mr. Nitin Gadkari (Minister for Road Transport & Highways in the Government of India), the plan to make 6-airbags mandatory has been shelved for now.

Addressing 63rd ACMA Annual Session, New Delhi

https://t.co/izH89H0UyK  Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) September 13, 2023

Speaking at the 63rd Annual Session of the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), Mr. Gadkari explained the reasoning for not making 6-airbags compulsory. One reason is that most carmakers have already started offering 6-airbags as standard. Theres resistance from only a few companies such as Maruti Suzuki.

As Maruti gets a significant percentage of its sales from small cars, it has been opposing the idea of making 6-airbags mandatory. Adding 6-airbags to small cars will make them expensive, which can have a negative impact on sales. As per government estimates, the cost of adding four more airbags will cost around USD 75. However, as per data analysed by private researchers, the cost of additional airbags could be around USD 231.

Another reasoning provided by Mr. Gadkari is that greater awareness can be achieved via the upcoming Bharat NCAP. Tests have already commenced and the first set of results are expected to be announced soon. Mr. Gadkari said that cars that have 6-airbags as standard will qualify for additional points in Bharat NCAP crash tests.

It will allow people to make informed decisions. As customers themselves will choose cars with higher safety rating, it is not necessary to make 6-airbags mandatory. Market dynamics and consumer choices will prompt carmakers to upgrade their safety standards.

A relief for Maruti Suzuki?

Marutis portfolio of mini and compact cars contributes more than 2/3rd of the companys overall sales. It includes cars like Alto, S-Presso, Celerio, Swift, Dzire, Ignis, Wagon R and Baleno. Most of these are good options for new car buyers and those looking to upgrade from a two-wheeler. If prices were increased, it could impact their sales. This is why not making 6-airbags mandatory could be a big relief for Maruti.

However, ethical and moral questions about passenger safety will still be relevant. The government can probably ask carmakers to provide 6-airbags as an option across all models and trim levels. This way, customers wont be forced to buy top-spec variants with 6-airbags. It may not be the perfect solution, but it is at least better than how things stand now.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, September 14. Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor) plays an increasingly important role on the continental trade map, said First Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Roman Sklyar during the Kazakh-German business forum, Trend reports.

"In the context of the current geopolitical situation, the creation of new transport and logistics routes is of great strategic importance. They need to diversify and ensure the reliability of mutual supply chains and production. Today, more than 80 percent of goods from China and Central Asia are transported to Europe through Kazakhstan," he said.

Sklyar also spoke about the positive dynamics in terms of cargo volumes along the Middle Corridor.

"Last year, cargo transshipment doubled and amounted to about 1.7 million tons, and over the five months of this year, cargo traffic increased by 64 percent. This year, we are interested in increasing the volume of cargo transportation along this route to 10 million tons in the medium term. Kazakhstan is ready to provide port facilities to meet the growing needs of its German and European partners," he added.

The Middle Corridor is a transportation and trade route that connects Asia and Europe, passing through several countries in the region. It is an alternative route to the traditional Northern Corridor and Southern Corridor. The route starts in China and crosses Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. It then passes through the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye before reaching Europe. The Middle Corridor offers a land route that connects the eastern parts of Asia, including China, with Europe, bypassing the longer maritime routes.
Things to Do

11 Things To Do in San Diego This Weekend: Oct. 2629

Zombie crawl through the Gaslamp, trick-or-treat in Little Italy, and honor your loved ones at one of several Dia de Muertos celebrations

Read article
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, September 15. The most important task of the Central Asian countries is to expand trade and economic relations and increase the volume of mutual trade turnover, said President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov in his speech at the 5th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, Trend reports.

"I think that extreme specifics and effective measures are required here. In this regard, Turkmenistan proposes to consider the establishment of the Central Asian Chamber of Commerce. The meaning and purpose of its work is to coordinate our joint steps in the transit of trade, ensuring the commercial interests of all potential economic subjects of the Central Asian market," he said.

The president noted that another area where the interests and goals of the Central Asian states should be reliably secured and implemented is the areas of innovation and new technologies.

"There is a great potential for innovative growth in Central Asian countries, good scientific schools and technological developments. We need to combine these advantages, establish an exchange of experience, knowledge, skills, study and implement advanced and foreign competencies together, provide the most favorable conditions for the development of innovative knowledge, encourage youth and creative initiative," Berdimuhamedov said.

He stressed that giving the economies of the Central Asian countries a pronounced innovative character and a digital dimension is currently a task of paramount importance.
Gravitational lensing provides unique insights into astrophysics and cosmology. Using ESOs Very Large Telescope, astronomers have discovered a new strong lensing system, DESI-253.2534+26.8843. This system consists of a massive elliptical galaxy surrounded by four blue images forming a rare Einstein Cross pattern.

Strong gravitational lensing occurs when a massive object warps spacetime and causes the path of light from a well-aligned distant source to bend, typically resulting in multiple images.

These systems are a powerful tool for astrophysics and cosmology.

They have been used to study how dark matter is distributed in galaxies and clusters.

When the alignment is nearly perfect and the lens mass has an elliptical distribution, the background source would appear as quadruply lensed.

These systems are prized as they provide the strongest constraint on the lens mass distribution.

One specific example of quadruply lensed system is the Einstein Cross, where four distinct images of the background source form a cross-like pattern with a high degree of symmetry.

The strong gravitational lens system DESI-253.2534+26.884 was discovered in the DESI Legacy Imaging Surveys data using neural networks.

The four petals in DESI-253.2534+26.884 are images of a distant galaxy hidden behind the orange galaxy at the center, said Gemini Observatory astronomer Aleksandar Cikota and colleagues.

Something very fascinating happens to allow us to detect the light from this hidden object: the galaxy at the center acts as a gravitational lens, bending the light emitted from the distant galaxy around it.

As a result, we see several images of the distant galaxy, distorted and magnified.

In the special configuration of these two galaxies, the hidden one appears as four images around the central lens galaxy, forming a cross-like (or flower-like) pattern dubbed an Einstein Cross.

Gravitational lensing thus allows us to discover hidden galaxies that would be otherwise invisible to us.

The astronomers observed DESI-253.2534+26.884 in May 2023 with the Multi Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE), mounted at UT4 of ESOs Very Large Telescope (VLT) on Cerro Paranal in Chile.

MUSE splits the light coming from every point within the area being observed into a rainbow or spectrum, which provides us with a wealth of information about the objects within the field of view, they explained.

Our results show that the distant galaxy is forming stars at a rapid rate.

Since light left the galaxy when the Universe was about 20% of its current age, studying it provides clues about how galaxies formed in the early Universe.

The results appear in the Astrophysical Journal Letters.

_____

Aleksandar Cikota et al. 2023. DESI-253.2534+26.8843: A New Einstein Cross Spectroscopically Confirmed with Very Large Telescope/MUSE and Modeled with GIGA-Lens. ApJL 953, L5; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ace9da
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, September 14. Uzbekistan invited Azerbaijan to participate in the launch of an integrated international transport platform, Trend reports.

The preposition was made by President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev during the 5th Consultative Meeting of the heads of Central Asian states held on September 14 in Tajikistan's Dushanbe with the participation of the guest of honor - President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.

"In order to increase the transport potential of our countries, I propose to develop an agreement on transport and transit in Central Asia, to form specific mechanisms for promoting effective transport corridors to enter the markets of China, South Asia and the Middle East, the European Union with the use of tariffs beneficial for business, as well as to prepare a program of measures for liberalization of transport services, optimization of licensing procedures and consider the creation of an integrated platform for international transportation. I propose to actively involve our Azerbaijani partners in our joint work," Mirziyoyev said.

Trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan reached $188 million in the first six months of 2023, which is 63 percent more than in the same period last year. The two countries plan to create a joint investment fund and increase trade turnover to $1 billion over the next few years.

Additionally, this will support the strengthening of the links between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan and the diversification of the economic integration. As of today, five projects totaling $700 million are also being worked on between the countries, one of which is the development of the logistics and transportation infrastructure.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. Armenian Defense Minister Suren Papikyan met with the Commander of the Ground Forces of the Russian Armed Forces, Army General Oleg Salyukov, and the new commander of the Russian peacekeeping contingent in Karabakh, Major General Kirill Kulakov, Trend reports.

During the meeting, the sides discussed the situation in the zone of responsibility for peacekeepers as well as the issue of increasing the efficiency of the Russian peacekeeping mission.

The meeting also emphasized the importance of implementing all points of the Trilateral Statement.

Earlier on September 12, Commander of the Ground Forces of the Russian Armed Forces Army General Oleg Salyukov presented the new commander of the Russian peacekeeping contingent, Major General Kirill Kulakov, to Azerbaijani Defense Minister Colonel General Zakir Hasanov.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 14. The Turkish Ministry of National Defense launched an appeal to Armenia in its weekly report, the Ministry of National Defense of Turkiye said, Trend reports.

The Turkish Armed Forces continue to support the Azerbaijani army in modernizing, training, and finding and clearing mines and explosive devices in the areas liberated from the Armenian occupation.

"We believe that the Caucasus region will take firm steps towards a peaceful future. We hope that Armenia will agree to make peace, and once again we declare our support for sincere efforts to establish permanent peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia," said the ministry.

According to the ministry, Turkiye will continue to support Azerbaijan and unite with them in every situation, guided by the principle of two states, one nation.

The ministry said that for peace and stability in the region, it is necessary to sign a peace agreement.
City Manager Mark Vanderpool. (Joe Powers Insitu Photography / File photo)

Its only 2023 but the City of Sterling Heights is already poised to look beyond 2030 and start thinking about the year 2040. And with the release of the Visioning 2040 Community Survey, Sterling Heights residents have the opportunity to take part in shaping the citys future for years  and even decades  to come.Its been nearly a decade now since Sterling Heights adopted its 2030 Visioning plan. Since its adoption in 2014, that plan has informed the City in many of its decisions, resulting in a series of significant public investments and initiatives that have kept Sterling Heights within the top three communities to live and raise a family in all of Macomb County.[Related: Read "How Sterling Heights Vision 2030 investment has led to a flourishing post-recession city" on Metromode.]Of those many investments and initiatives resulting from the 2030 Visioning plan  and, just as importantly, the community surveys that preceded its adoption  include the REcreating Recreation initiative (2016), which produced the award-winning Esports Arena, Bocce Barn, Community Center, and plenty more. It resulted in the formation of numerous community groups and alliances, sustainability initiatives like Think Sterling Green, public art programs, and cost- and water-saving overhauls to the water utility service.The point, City Manager Mark Vanderpool told Metromode earlier this year, is to make Sterling Heights the best Sterling Heights available, be it for residents, business owners, and visitors alike: This is a wonderful city to work for, because everyone is working to make it work. Were not caught up in politics or opinions  everyone from the Mayor (Michael Taylor), to city council to DPW, we just want to make the city work. Its about a commitment to excellence.Sterling Heights residents have until the end of September to complete the Visioning 2040 Community Survey and help inform the citys future. True to their commitment to serving the breadth of the citys diverse population, the survey is available in English, Arabic, and Spanish languages. Its available online and, the city promises, should take about five minutes to complete.[Related: Read "A vision of inclusivity: How Sterling Heights' Vision 2030 engaged residents, and a look to 2040" on Metromode.]Once residents follow the link, theyll be asked to select three of the citys strengths, three of its challenges, three of its most important long-term goals, and more. Should Sterling Heights invest more in their sustainability efforts? Pedestrian and bike pathways? Senior services? Visit Sterling Heights online to let them know what you think.
Big dogs. Little dogs. Working dogs. Fashion dogs. Pedigreed dogs. And beloved mutts.All the dogs were out in downtown Kalamazoo for Dogs in the Zoo on Saturday, Sept. 9. The event was sponsored by Downtown Kalamazoo Shops Second Wave journalist Mark Wedel and photographer Fran Dwight went looking for the best dogs and found that they were all very good boys and girls.Cooper's endearing trait is "just how happy he is all the time," says Heather Bailey. "That big, goofy smile he puts out," Matt Bailey says.Some might think the Baileys are spoiling Cooper, pushing him around in a large stroller. But Cooper, nearly nine, has had multiple health problems, so his people do their best for him."He just went blind two months ago, so this is his first outing. He's doing pretty well," Heather says. "Enjoying every day we get with him," she adds.Pet boutique Beowoof Provisions for Pets owner Karl Gerstner.Beowoof, at 428 South Burdick near the south end of the Mall, was downtown's obvious pet-oriented business present at the event.Other shops highlighted their doggie specials: Pup Cups from Cherri's Chocol'art , Pup Corn by Pop City Popcorn , and Doggie Sundaes from Spirit of Kalamazoo Lisa Roussin of Beyond Bones . Beyond Bones made sure the dogs had enough treats on the Mall. The business, an offshoot of The Arc of Allegan County , employs people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.Beignet, with his girl Roe Pollerana (facepaint by Colors and Cocktails ).James and Abbie Pollerana say that, yes, it's not that we can't see them in all the pug's wrinkles  Beignet has no eyes. He had been suffering because of an eye disorder, so they were removed."He does pretty good. He's wild, but he gets around," James says. "Just sniffing around."Beignet has ears to guide him, also, but "he doesn't listen, he just does what he wants," Abbie says.Former Mayor Bobby Hopewell met a few canine friends during Dogs in the Zoo.Xany wanted just-purchased treats right then and there, but Machlin Fink scolds, "That's for later!"Xany, "which is short for Alexander Hamilton," is adopted. Her breed seemed a mystery, but a DNA test "came back 100% lab," Fink says.Not just dogs got the royal treatment. Colors and Cocktails offered free face painting for members of their pack.One dog was getting a lot of attention from humans and canines: Kenworth, who must've been named after the semi-truck that his profile resembles.Wayne Patterson drove the 180-pound Neapolitan mastiff to Kalamazoo from the Climax-Scotts area. "He's just a wonderful dog. He lost his mom, and I lost my wife, in December. This is a beautiful event... I haven't gone out much, so I thought, let's just go down there and have fun.""He's met a lot of friends. He's very good with dogs as it is, but he's never had so many at one time.... He's just a big, gentle giant."Kenworth seems to have constant drool hanging from his amazing jowls. "Yes, I have a mop at home... I chase him around after he gets a drink of water," Patterson says. "Big eater, he eats about 13 cups of kibble a day, with a can of food."Rosie says hi to Kenworth, but her chihuahua-mix brother Pablo wants to let him know he's top dog.The event was nothing but good vibes, with no fights breaking out. "I was kind of worried about that," Stacy Carlson says, laughing about Pablo's machismo. Rosie and Pablo were with her and Piper Walker.And Kenworth makes more friends.The Mall street was blocked off, and traffic was replaced by doggie obstacle coursesWater features led to unabashedly wet dogs, and dogs like Snickerdoodle the Goldendoodle drinking their fill. Snickerdoodle's people Amy and Anna Smith wait patiently.Chuck, a two-year-old hound mix, is available, ladies. Becky Fraker of the Animal Rescue Project , says, "He is fabulous, loves humans, loves dogs, not a fan of the cats if you know what I mean. When you pet him, you get so happy." Animal Rescue Project has many dogs and cats available for adoption.Animal Rescue Project had a bushel of puppies available for adoption. Not to be confused with Kalamazoo Animal Rescue "They're a great group, also," the Project's Jack Frost says  Animal Rescue Project is a no-kill shelter that saves at-risk homeless pets, gives them medical care and temporary homes, and works to adopt them out to their forever homes.Frost says that a lot of owners are being forced to give up their pets because of life changes such as evictions. "I think it's worse now than it was during COVID," he says.Aries celebrated his tenth birthday on the Mall. He's a service dog, a professional, Troy Minich says, but, "He gets a little excited around dogs, wants to say 'hi.'"Two adult Animal Rescue Project got a lot of attention, and Pup Cups: Eight-year-old Apple (malamute mix) and Jax (husky).They need to be adopted as a pair Simon Limback, project volunteer, says, "They're good-tempered with people, but not so much with cats."Chuck and Becky demonstrate the "Sloppy Kiss" kissing booth for the Animal Rescue Project.And there were plenty of fashionistas. Lola struts her stuff looking fabulous, yet mysterious, in leopard framed mirrored sunglasses, accompanied by her man Steve.Henry is always dapper in his plaid bowtie. "He has always worn a bowtie since he was a puppy," Jessica Lindquist says. "He's very loving and snuggly."Napoleon, with Brittany Ponicki, may be short in stature, but he's ready to conquer the Mall.
Kids in Tune students choose their instruments.

JayKwon Noble started playing viola with Kids in Tune and now is Principal Violist in the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra.

JayKwon Noble (center) performs viola in a KJSO ensemble.

Kids in Tune often perform at Chenery Auditorium

Kids in Tune violinists performing at Chenery Auditorium.
Jamie Stuck, NHBP Tribal Council Chairperson, is a newly appointed member of the Tribal Advisory Committee that works with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Native American students attending school in Michigan will no longer be boxed in when they identify their race and ethnicity.Previously, these students were able to choose between two boxes to check American Indian or Alaska Native on forms provided through the Michigan Department of Education. But, these options did not provide leaders of the states 12 federally recognized Tribes with detailed information about their students' achievement or graduation rates, and federal funds were left on the table as a result, says Jamie Stuck, Chairperson of the Nottawasepi Huron Band of the Potawatomi and President of the United Tribes of Michigan.When you have tribal students who have already had an adverse tribal experience and theyre not being counted, it can do more damage, Stuck says. This can make them feel like theyre not being counted which makes them feel like we dont care about their education or welfare.He and other tribal leaders on the MDEs Indigenous Education Initiative Team (MDE-IEI) began working with officials from the Michigan Department of Education four years ago to allow students to identify their tribal affiliation by checking the appropriate boxes. Their work is in partnership with the Confederation of Michigan Tribal Education Departments (CMTED), which is taking the lead in addressing the essential questions that must be answered as Michigan prepares to usher in a new era of data collection, says Martin Ackley, MDE spokesperson.Their efforts resulted in the creation of the new Tribal Affiliation Reporting Policy which is expected to be rolled out in the 2024-25 school year when all Michigan public school districts and charter schools will be required to collect tribal affiliation data. The state has set aside $3 million to make sure that schools are equipped to do this.The data will be submitted to the states Center for Educational Performance Initiative (CEPI) In a written statement to On the Ground Battle Creek, leadership with CMTED says they understand the significance of collecting tribal affiliation data in Michigan's public education system.By focusing on Tribal affiliation data, tribal nations can customize supports for learners in unprecedented ways, leveraging the power of data collection. This will provide us with more thorough insights into how to best uplift our students, identifying their strengths and addressing any deficiencies within the education system, the statement says.CMTED embraces this opportunity to establish a legacy of educational excellence for future generations. We affirm the inherent right of educational sovereignty of tribes while reinforcing the requirement of Tribal Consultation and our tribes' right to actively participate in meaningful collaboration. In doing so, we honor the wisdom of our ancestors and further their vision toward a future where educational equity, cultural preservation, and excellence go hand in hand."We commit to the partnership with the Michigan Department of Educations Indigenous Education Initiative, the Center for Educational Performance and Information(CEPI), and the guidance of our elected tribal leaders to accomplish this endeavor. This is not just a data collection requirement; it is a testament to our shared commitment to a more informed, inclusive Michigan."Not every state putting this new data collection model in place has sought input from tribal leaders, Stuck says.This is a transformative step forward, one that reflects our commitment to providing a high-quality education for all Michigan students, inclusive of our Indigenous communities, Ackley says. The collection of tribal affiliation data is a significant development in Michigan that reinforces the states commitment to honoring Indigenous communities and will help ensure the equitable education of all students.The most recent data shows that less than 1/3 of the actual number of Native American students is currently accounted for in public school systems throughout the state. During the 2022-23 school year, 8,448 American Indian and Alaska Native students were counted among students enrolled in Michigans public schools. This was .59 percent of total enrollment numbers; however, an MDE analysis shows that more than 27,000 tribal-affiliated students are estimated to be enrolled in the states public schools.Stuck says the number of officially counted Native students is often undercounted because of the number of these students whose options are limited to checking boxes identifying them as American Indian or Alaska Native and checking at least one other race or ethnicity.These students are categorized as two or more races for data collection purposes which effectively erases their Native categorization, he says.Under the new policy, students can select their tribal affiliation. This will give a more accurate accounting of the Indigenous student population and will allow the state to provide education data to tribal leaders about students affiliated with their tribes no matter where in Michigan they attend classes.Through the collection of tribal affiliation data, we will gain the vital information needed to assess the impact of the public education system on Indigenous learners within our own communities, Stuck says in a press release. This additional data will support enhanced partnerships between Tribal nations, the state, and local school districts that prioritize the needs of Indigenous learners.Knowing the precise number of students in particular tribes opens the possibility for schools to get more grants from programs like Title VI Indian Education and the Johnson-OMalley Indian Education program , according to an article on the Education Week website Stuck says when thousands and thousands of Indigenous students are missing from the headcount, that Title VI funding is going unused.You have a lot of people that are experts on Title I. Theres people in districts responsible for keeping that going, says Alex Red Corn, Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership at Kansas State University, in the article. Those same districts dont even know whats in Title VI of the Indian Education Act, which annually affords roughly hundreds of grants to help Native students and educators.Red Corns family is part of the Osage Nation. He has been consulting with tribal leaders in Kansas on the possibility of data-sharing agreements that could be of value.In Michigan, where tribal leaders have had ongoing concerns about inaccurate or incomplete data measuring their childrens learning and academic performance, Stuck calls the new data collection policy huge. Christina Sharp, a member of CMTED, agrees.Our ancestors laid the foundation for our Tribal nations future, she says in a press release. They recognized the role that high-quality education contributed to our collective development. They understood that a comprehensive education system encompasses Western knowledge and our invaluable Indigenous knowledge systems. Through the harmonious integration of these knowledge systems, we can genuinely thrive and build as Tribal nations.
The-city

spotlight

Inside the SF pop-up clinic where homeless take their pets

Craig Lee/The Examiner Paisley de Blank (left) and Kaela Garber hold Cade Ratcliff's dog, Chey, at Veterinary Street Outreach Services' pop-up clinic on Monday, Sept. 11, 2023. The bimonthly clinic typically sees about 30 clients at each pop-up, providing free medical services for homeless residents' pets.

As around 30 pets and their owners gathered in the parking lot of the San Francisco SPCA veterinary hospital on a recent Monday, Kelley Lamonte was grateful.

With just a few tents and bins of supplies, a handful of volunteers administered vaccines, doled out medications, and clipped nails of dogs and cats owned by unhoused San Franciscans like her.

This place is a lifesaver, said Lamonte, whose 8-year-old chihuahua mix, Sophie, suffers from seizures after getting hit by a car a couple of years ago. Theres so much money involved in what theyve given.

Since that accident, Lamonte has brought Sophie to the Veterinary Street Outreach Services, or Vet SOS, one of two mobile street outreach programs run by the San Francisco Community Clinic Consortium. She estimates that its services, free for homeless pet owners, have saved her thousands of dollars.

She adopted Sophie in Humboldt County when the dog was about 6 months old, but Lamonte only became homeless a couple of years ago after a bad breakup. She now lives out of her car in the Bay Area, often parking farther down the Peninsula, where she says she feels safer.

Craig Lee/The Examiner Kelley Lamonte, pictured holding her dog Sophie on Sept. 11, 2023, said the care Vet SOS offers "is a lifesaver. There's so much money involved in what they've given."

As of last year, there were nearly 8,000 homeless people in San Francisco. Of those, at least 25% are pet owners,

SFCCC community services director Beth Rittenhouse-

Dhesi said.

Thats a lot of pets that need veterinary care, said Rittenhouse-Dhesi, who has worked for SFCCC for nearly 20 years.

Vet SOS is one of the few programs in The City available for homeless people with pets. Research has shown that animals can provide unhoused people with a potential connection to their community and improve mental health.

Many homeless pet owners such as Jennifer Eaton find the care of their animals to be just as  if not more  vital as caring for themselves.

Im starving, I havent eaten breakfast, said Eaton, whose three cats, Dark Angel, Ninja Kitty, and Sunburst arrived at the clinic nestled in a covered stroller. Im making sure they come first.

Vet SOS operates these pop-up clinics twice a month. One only provides vaccines, and another provides broader services by appointment only. The SFCCC, which runs Vet SOS, was founded in 1983 to provide health care and related needs to people who are low-income, uninsured, or publicly insured. It's a membership organization about a dozen nonprofit health centers.

Across all 12 of our health centers, we take care of about 100,000 people per year, Rittenhouse-Dhesi said. About 10,000 of them are unhoused, or marginally housed.

The needs of clients pets at Vet SOS run the gamut. Many need vaccinations, and occasionally theyll encounter an animal with a broken leg. The pop-up clinics arent equipped for surgeries, so they make referrals for spaying and neutering.

Most often, the clinics clients come for general ailments  such as fleas or a skin condition  that people would normally skip because they cant pay for it, Rittenhouse-Dhesi said.

Rather than waiting until things become a problem and having a really expensive situation on their hands, people come for wellness exams as well, she added.

Switching over to an appointments-only system to improve efficiency hasnt diminished the number of clients Vet SOS sees, which Rittenhouse-Dhesi said hovers around 30.

Craig Lee/The Examiner Dr. Hilton Outi (left) and Kaela Garber examine Rayan Zouais dog, Mango, at the Veterinary Street Outreach Services on Monday, Sept. 11, 2023. Zouai said he learned of the clinic, like many of its clients, through word of mouth.

Most visitors hear about the clinic through word of mouth. When The Examiner visited the pop-up, 19-year-old Rayan Zouai brought in his 9-month-old rottweiler puppy, Mango, to get her nails clipped.

I had a vague idea that they provided assistance with getting her spayed and everything, but I didnt exactly know that her care would be free, said Zouai, who recently found himself in supportive housing in the Tenderloin after an argument with his dad went south. I thought I would have to pay.

After clipping Mangos nails, volunteers loaded up Zoui with food, treats and other supplies, including a new harness for the puppy.

Sophie, the chihuahua mix, was outfitted with a pink dog onesie with a pink polka-dotted bow across it after getting her refill of seizure medication.

They really helped me, Lamonte said, cradling the dog. I dont know how to describe it. Its the weight off my shoulders.
Capricorn Energy , the Egypt-focused oil and gas group, has said that full-year production will be at the low end of previous guidance as the slimmed-down business swung to a loss in the first half of 2023.

The Edinburgh-based company expects average output to be at the low end of 32,000 to 36,000 barrels of oil equivalents per day (boepd), as it continues to exit high-risk exploration projects which its new board deems as non-core.

Capricorn has had a tumultuous 2023 so far, which saw the collapse of a proposed reverse takeover of NewMed Energy in the first quarter  following strong shareholder opposition  which resulted in all but two members of the board resigning.

The company, with a new board, then underwent a strategic review and decided to focus on returning excess cash to shareholders, cutting costs and staff, and stopping high-risk exploration activities outside of Egypt.

Capricorn has now fully exited the Mauritanian market, and continues to pursue exits from activities in the UK, Mexico and Suriname.

The UK headcount is expected to be cut by around 80% to less than 30 people, bringing the total staff level to just 50.

Meanwhile, $450m was returned to shareholders in May and a further special dividend of $100m, payable in October, has now been proposed.

Production in the first half was just 31,496 boepd, down from 35,500 boepd in the first half of 2022. And, as a result of the average oil price sinking from $110.9 to $78.6 a barrel, revenues from production totalled just $98.3m, from $137.4m the year before.

The company reported a loss before taxation of $62.2m for the period, compared with a profit of $40.8m in the first half o2022.
The organizers of the Miss Ukraine 2023 pageant have reacted to the scandal surrounding the contestants by disqualifying three contestants. After checking the information, which mentioned the escort activities of Ukrainian women and their relations with Russians, the scandalous facts were confirmed.

ADVERTISIMENT

However, the Miss Ukraine 2023 team reported about it in a too loyal manner, without announcing either the details or the names of the disqualified contestants. The corresponding post appeared in Instagram of the contest (to see the photo, scroll to the end of the page).

"We have carefully investigated all the issues raised by the public in the last few days. According to the results of the research conducted by the special ethical group, we inform you that the mentioned unethical facts about the contestants have unfortunately been confirmed. Therefore, the committee is forced to exclude three contestants from the competition," the official statement said ," the official statement said.

ADVERTISIMENT

Recall that the investigation, which was published by Ukrainian comedian and blogger Andriy Luzan, said that one of the participants - Kseniya Maghera - visits the restaurant of Russian oligarch Arkady Novikov in Dubai, visited the Kremlin for an award, has a Russian girlfriend, and even after February 24, 2022 ignored a full-scale invasion.

Another contestant, Iryna Pilyayeva, was on vacation with Russian oligarch Alexander Orlov less than a month ago, according to Luzan. Accusations were also voiced that the participating girls were forced to work as escorts or had been them even before applying for Miss Ukraine.

ADVERTISIMENT

All these high-profile details the contest organizers ignored, tried to quietly evade the scandal and hid the names of the girls and their scandalous facts on biography. Comments to the post were also prudently closed.

Ukrainians were promised to soon make public the results of the voting and to name the names of Miss Ukraine 2023, Miss Earth 2023 and Miss International 2023.

By the way, one of the contestants from Lviv - Victoria Makarova - after the scandal refused to participate in the contest on her own. She assured that she did not know who would be her competitors, and moral principles do not allow the girl to continue to compete for the crown.

ADVERTISIMENT

As reported OBOZREVATEL, the scandal this year broke out and around Ms.World International 2023 in Miami, where the Ukrainian in the final held hands with the Russian. All the details - in our material.

Only verified information from us in Telegram-channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The inaugural edition of Team Marksmen Networks CX Transformation Conclave will highlight why great CX is not just a nice-to-have, but a business imperative

Digital has been a great democratiser across the world. But for many of the worlds incumbent biggies, this rose has its thorn. Namely, smaller, more nimble competitors and upstarts that are moving quickly as they seek to kickstart their own growth trajectories by offering innovative, intuitive, convenient, and often personalised products and services to the customer base of the entrenched establishment.

Worried they may be about this erosion in the consumer base, but it would be folly for these large players to simply pursue fresh consumers. Rather, it would be more apt to refocus and rejig their offering to offer a heightened Customer Experience (CX), which is a powerful competitive advantage in and of itself.

Peruse these stats.

The Temkin Group found that companies that earn $1 billion annually can expect to earn, on average, an additional $700 million within 3 years of investing in CX.

For SaaS companies in particular, they can expect to increase revenue by $1 billion.

Research from PWC reveals that customers are willing to pay a price premium of up to 13% (and as high as 18%) for luxury and indulgence services, simply for availing great CX.

Navigating the CX maze

While Indias CX landscape is dynamic and evolving, with India ranking third globally and leading the way in the Asia-Pacific region when it comes to CX maturity according to research, its emphasis varies across industries and companies. Even though 79% of Indian firms today agree that CX is a means to drive revenue, only 17% of businesses are able to provide "exceptional" customer service. This leaves a lot of room for growth and innovation in the space, as also for deliberations on how to chart a way forward to greater heights.

The inaugural edition of Team Marksmen Networks CX Transformation Conclave, to be held on 15th September 2023 in Mumbai, highlights how CX can be holistic, focused, and clearly linked to business outcomes. By convening senior industry leaders and experts to deliberate on all things CX, it will highlight how companies can start building the capabilities, talent, and organisational structure needed to make this transition, lest they be left behind.

The event will also be witness to an exclusive industry recognition, Masters of CX, which celebrates companies that have thoughtfully crafted CX that is rooted in purpose, delivering experiences that are supercharged and impactful while being acutely focused on discovering and delivering on critical customer needs. These doyens of CX have led the way by tapping into a deep well of empathy and leveraging innovation to the fullest to deliver human-centric experiences supported by key enablers, such as technology and analytics.

By getting the basic building blocks of CX right and adding a layer of innovative thinking in line with the demands of the current consumer, these are the brands that have cut out the hyperbole and demonstrated hyper-growth.

This unique initiative has been shaped by insights gleaned from an industry-wide consumer study conducted by LeadCap Ventures, with brands appraised on the following parameters:

Customer Journey Mapping

Omnichannel Experience

Technology Integration

Analytics and Insights

Consumer Stickiness

Employee Engagement

Offering his thoughts ahead of the event, Rajesh Khubchandani, Co-Founder, Team Marksmen Network, said, Exceptional customer experiences are not just a goal; they are the cornerstone of the modern business strategy. In a world where choices abound, a total commitment to delivering outstanding CX is a true differentiator. It's the emotional connection built with customers that not only drives loyalty, but also fuels growth. Every interaction is an opportunity to reinforce a brands values and outperform expectations. Customer experience isn't just a department; it's everyone's responsibility. It's the path to sustained success, and the Masters of CX are proof enough that happy customers are the most influential advocates you can ever have."

To know more about this unique initiative, write to us at contact@teammarksmen.com.
Leading French gourmet flavorings company Monin launched the work on its first manufacturing unit in India on the outskirts of Hyderabad. The plant with an investment of Rs 300 crore is coming up at Gunthapally village in Sangareddy district. The unit is being built on a 40 acre land. In the first phase, the company plans to build a two lakh square feet build up area that will house the Monin India headquarters, the all-inclusive R&D center and a production unit.

This state of the art manufacturing facility will primarily cater to the Indian customer base and the neighboring South Asia markets. Telangana Industries Minister K.T. Rama Rao, Georges Monin SAS President & Chairman Olivier Monin, Monin India Pvt Ltd Managing Director Germain Araud and French Consul General in Bengaluru, Thierry Berthelot attended the groundbreaking ceremony. Heaping praise on Telangana for its business friendly environment, Olivier Monin said that before choosing Telangana, they visited eight different states but none of them had the same business spirit.

KTR noted that this will be a zero waste and zero pollution plant and is the first Monin plant in South Asia and eighth in the world. The plant will create 150 direct jobs and an additional 200 indirect jobs for the local youth of Telangana. The minister added that many companies from different parts of the world are setting up centers in the state and with the addition of Monin, Telangana's food processing ecosystem has gone a notch up. Monin, a premium French brand created in 1912, is an innovative flavoring solutions creator. Monin currently has 7 production facilities worldwide two in France, two in the US, one in Russia, one in Malaysia and one in China.
SAP Labs India said it will double its artificial intelligence (AI) talent base in the country by 2024, to infuse its portfolio with AI capabilities that meet the demand of an evolving business landscape. SAPs largest R&D centre globally, the Bengaluru-headquartered hub has emerged as a critical location for the German software giants AI transformation, enabling its half a million customers worldwide with Business AI. As one of the largest locations powering the SAP AI unit, SAP Labs India is bullish on Business AI and will double the AI talent base in India by next year, said Sindhu Gangadharan, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of SAP Labs India and Head of SAP User Enablement.

Sapphire Ventures, the technology-focused VC backed by SAP, in July announced that it will dedicate $1 billion to AI-powered enterprise technology start-ups. SAP announced strategic investments in three leading generative AI companies Aleph Alpha, Anthropic and Cohere. Later this year, SAP plans to announce new solutions and capabilities across our portfolio which take advantage of the immense possibilities with AI.

Generative AI will fundamentally change the way businesses run. At SAP, we deliver AI that is available from day one, as it is already built into the SAP applications that power the most critical business processes, said Gangadharan. Gangadharan was appointed as Vice Chairperson of the National Association of Software and Service Companies (Nasscom) earlier this week. SAP AI is built in the systems that power the customers most critical business processes and works alongside their users, discovering exceptional insights and efficiencies, making them more knowledgeable and valuable to their business.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A Staten Island man has pleaded guilty to charges of money laundering conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute drugs in connection with an organization based in Boston that distributed large quantities of cocaine and MDMA, federal authorities announced.

Jin Hua Zhang, 36, of Staten Island, plead guilty to the charges in front of U.S. District Judge Angel Kelley on Tuesday.

Zhang allegedly led an organization that laundered bulk cash for drug dealers and laundered profits from other illegal businesses and internet-based scams, according to prosecutors.

Zhang would direct alleged co-conspirators to pick up hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash or transmit millions of dollars in wire transfers and bank deposits. Zhang then converted those funds into cryptocurrency, which he believed would enable his organization to transfer illicit funds without detection by banks security teams or law enforcement, acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy said in a press release.

Zhang and the organization would distribute large quantities of cocaine and MDMA  also known as ecstasy  according to authorities.

Money is the lifeblood of any narcotics trafficking organization. Mr. Zhang targeted the critical flow of funds and the vicious circle that leads to deadly drugs being sold on our streets every day. This office is committed to dedicating the resources to do whatever we can to choke off the flow of money as part of our efforts to combat narcotics trafficking, Levy said in a statement.

Zhangs network was first detected in the greater Boston area, but alleged leaders and members of the organization were later identified throughout the United States and overseas following a year-long investigation.

From recorded conversations and meetings, Zhang and other co-conspirators discussed efforts to launder funds from drug trafficking and other scams as well as laundered money from fraud operations based in Cambodia.

In less than one year, Zhang and his organization laundered at least $25 million worth of drug proceeds and funds from other illegal businesses through undercover agents who infiltrated the organization.

Many of the funds have been traced from the Zhang Organization to Hong Kong and elsewhere including China, India, Cambodia and Brazil, among other locations, authorities said.

In addition to money laundering, Zhang, and allegedly others, were recorded distributing kilograms of cocaine and MDMA that Zhang intended for distribution in Massachusetts.

Today, Jin Hua Zhang admitted to leading a sophisticated, transnational criminal organization that flooded the streets of Massachusetts with kilos of cocaine and ecstasy and laundered at least $25 million through a global network in an attempt to conceal their criminal conduct, said Jodi Cohen, special agent in charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division.

Zhang faces the possibility of up to 20 years in prison for the money laundering conspiracy charge. He could face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, or a possible maximum sentence of life in prison for the charge of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.

Zhang is expected to sentenced on Feb. 1, 2024.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  New York City public school students returned to campus for the 2023-2024 academic year without updated guidance on the coronavirus (COVID-19)  but there are still some measures students should take to protect themselves against the virus, according to protocols available on the city Department of Education (DOE) website.

The DOE website no longer includes a separate coronavirus information page, which had offered detailed information on what happens if you test positive for COVID-19, when you should mask, when students or staff can safely return to campus, vaccine requirements and the number of cases reported in schools.

Instead, the DOE has opted to include COVID-19 information under an overall best practices page for students to stay healthy  such as getting updated vaccines and staying home when sick.

This is the first academic year without New York state guidance on COVID-19 since 2020.

Here is the current information as outlined on the city DOE website.

What if students or staff test positive for COVID-19?

Like last years guidance, students and staff should stay home if they show any symptoms of COVID-19 or other illnesses and get tested. If a student or employee tests positive for the coronavirus, he or she must isolate for five days and can return to school on Day 6 if there are no symptoms or symptoms are improving. The infected person must wear a mask until Day 10 after symptom onset or date of positive test, whichever is earlier.

When should students or staff wear a mask?

According to the DOEs website, students and staff should wear a mask if they have COVID-19 for 10 days after symptoms start (or 10 days after they test positive for COVID-19 and dont have symptoms). They should also wear a mask for 10 days after being exposed to someone who has COVID-19.

Masks are also required when entering the school medical room if the nurse suspects the student has respiratory symptoms.

Are test kits available?

The state has made COVID-19 rapid test kits and face masks available to school districts by request. After requests have been submitted, New York State will deliver the requested tests and N-95 and KN-95 masks for distribution.

City public schools wont give out test kits on a regular basis, but they will be available to parents and families who request them.

Would a face mask be required?

A face mask isnt required for students and staff in schools. However, if hospitalizations increase due to COVID-19, students could see themselves donning a face mask inside once again, according to CDC recommendations.

Under CDC guidance, wearing a face mask indoors at schools is recommended at a high COVID-19 hospital admission level.

Is the COVID-19 vaccine required?

No, the coronavirus vaccine is not required for students or staff. However, the vaccine is highly recommended to protect children and others. The DOE also noted that children should get the updated COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available in the early fall, even if they have had COVID-19 or previously been vaccinated.

YOU MIGHT LIKE:

Potential school bus strike in NYC: How to tell if your childs route could be impacted

As 2023-2024 academic year gets underway, is NYC school bus strike still a possibility?

Are your kids in one of our 211 back-to-school photos?

These New York schools spend the most per student, new report says

2023-2024 academic year: New York State to make COVID test kits and face masks available to schools
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  New York State has released the results of standardized test scores for individual students from the last school year.

The scores  which were released Wednesday, according to city Schools Chancellor David C. Banks  came later than usual this year as a result of changing the exams to measure new learning standards. Each spring, students in grades 3-8 take part in standardized exams in reading and math  offering an idea of how well students are succeeding in those subjects. State exam scores also determine if a student receives academic intervention services, which are intended to increase achievement for students who struggle to meet the learning standards.

Students in New York City public schools will be able to view their individual scores through their NYC Schools Account (NYCSA) Portal, which allows families to see their childs grades, test scores and more.

Visit www.schoolsaccount.nyc to access the portal.

In 2017, New York voted to replace Common Core with the New York State Next Generation Learning Standards  spending several years raising awareness and building capacity for the new standards. This past spring marked the first time that students statewide took standardized reading and math exams that aligned with the states Next Generation Learning Standards.

While individual test scores are now available, its unclear when the state and city will publish a broader scope of test scores later in the fall. State officials previously said they need more time to analyze and gather educator input for the new tests to establish achievement standards, also known as cut scores, for performance on each of the tests.

Banks told ABC7 that city student scores are up in reading and math.

Students are graded on a scale of 1-4, with 3 and 4 determining if a student is proficient in the subject. The results are for research purposes are arent on a students official transcript or permanent student record.

A year-by-year comparison will not be a fair assessment of data for test scores released this year, as learning standards have changed. Therefore, parents shouldnt compare their childs test scores to last year.

You can view performance level descriptions for each grade at the state education departments website.

YOU MIGHT LIKE:

Coronavirus protocols in NYC public schools: What you need to know for 2023-2024 academic year

Potential school bus strike in NYC: How to tell if your childs route could be impacted

As 2023-2024 academic year gets underway, is NYC school bus strike still a possibility?

Are your kids in one of our 211 back-to-school photos?

2023-2024 academic year: New York State to make COVID test kits and face masks available to schools
Another shark attack has occurred in Egypt. In the popular resort of Dahab in the waters of the Gulf of Aqaba, a tourist fell victim to a predatory shark that bit her on the shoulder.

ADVERTISIMENT

The Egyptian Ministry of Environmental Protection has already announced the closure of Laguna Beach, where the accident allegedly occurred, for 24 hours. Ahram Online writes about it.

Witnesses to the incident report that the victim lost her left arm. She was pulled unconscious from the water by rescuers, after which hotel staff took her off the beach and handed her over to doctors.

The ministry did not provide exact information about the location of the incident and the severity of the woman's injuries, but confirmed that the tourist was immediately provided with medical care and her condition is currently stable.

"The victim was taken to the hospital, where she had to have her arm amputated. At the time of the attack, the rescuers tried to pick up the predator with a harpoon, but to no avail," the article says.

ADVERTISIMENT

The news of the shark attack quickly spread on social media: photos and videos appeared showing vacationers running from the beach in fear of the shark.

Environment Minister Yasmin Fouad ordered the formation of a commission to assess the situation and investigate the causes of the shark attack. The beaches will be reopened after the authorities are satisfied that the area is safe.

As OBOZREVATEL wrote earlier, a citizen of the Russian Federation died in Egypt due to a shark attack. He was 23-year-old Vladimir Popov from the Arkhangelsk region. Details are in our article.

Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - The weekend is almost here, offering an array of Staten Island experiences.

Theres a car show and flea market, a Fig Fest to delight food connoisseurs, a theatrical performance for art lovers, and much more to explore.

Saturday

The Colonel Mastodon Comedy / Sept. 16, 9:30 p.m.

The Colonel Mastodon Comedy is a touring stand-up comedy show, based in New Jersey and playing all over the Tristate area for more than a decade. Its founders, Reggie Parker and Dan Farley, are able to promote up-and-coming stand-up comedians. There will be a two-drink minimum the evening of the show. Seating is limited, so purchasing tickets in advance in strongly encouraged.

Admission cost: $25

Location: St. George Theatre

Life on the Third Rail or A Subway Delay to the Future (Street Theater) / Sept. 16, 2 p.m.

Join Theater for the New City for an unforgettable free street theater musical experience, Life on the Third Rail or A Subway Delay to the Future, at Tappen Park. Get ready to immerse yourself in a captivating performance that will transport you to a world where the subway becomes a gateway to the future. The talented cast will take you on a journey through time and space, exploring the challenges and triumphs of climate change, a pandemic and life in the city -- through a combination of music, dance and theater. Reserve your spot on Eventbrite.

Admission cost: Free

Location: Tappen Park, Stapleton

Tribute to American Music by Bill Castello (Part 1) / Sept. 16, 6 p.m.

With over 2,500 portraits by Bill Castello, music clips from hundreds of artists and video memories, this series is presented in three parts at the Garibaldi-Meucci Museum, Rosebank. The first part is called The Roots of American Music through the Jazz Era. Puchase your ticket and RSVP on the museums website.

Admission cost: $10

Location: Garibaldi-Meucci Museum, 420 Tompkins Ave.

5 to Midnight / Sept. 16, 8 to 11 p.m.

The band 5 to Midnight will play in the Beer Garden at Killmeyers this Saturday. Enjoy some classic rock, blues and some country by 5 to Midnight -- with lead vocalist Elissa Montanti, the executive director and founder of Global Medical Relief Fund (GMRF), bassist Bert Kramer, lead guitarist Michael McMahon, drummer Nat Seeley, bandmate Bill Moser, and keyboard player Ahmed Shareef who has played at Radio City and at half Time for the Knicks at Madison Square Garden.

Admission cost: Free

Location: Killmeyers

Sunday

46th Annual Car Show & Flea Market / Sept. 17, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Staten Island Region Antique Automobile Club of America presents its 46th annual Antique Car Show & Flea Market -- featuring 400+ vehicles competing for hundreds of trophies. Peer Judging returns for all vehicles 2009 and newer. There will be a drawing for a 2002 Pontiac Firebird -- raffles are $5 each or five for $20. Car show entry is $25 (includes Dash Plaques for first 200 entries). Rain date is Sept. 24.

Admission cost: $5

Location: Parking lot of the COMMONS cafe, 2 Teleport Drive, Bloomfield

Fig Fest 2023 / Sept. 17, 2 to 6 p.m.

Celebrate all things fig at the annual Fig Fest. All are invited to enter the Fig King Contest; registration will be open until 3 p.m. The winner will be announced at 4 p.m. Dont miss this chance to be the Fig King.

Admission cost: $5 suggested donation, plus free entry into the National Lighthouse Museum

Location: National Lighthouse Museum, St. George
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  With no contract finalized, Staten Islands elected officials made their latest call Friday for the city to reverse course on migrant shelter plans for a former Midland Beach assisted living facility.

In their letter to Mayor Eric Adams and Comptroller Brad Lander, the group of Staten Island officials call for the.Adams administration to withdraw its pursuit of a contract at the former Island Shores Senior Residence, and for the comptroller to not finalize one if that request.

The bipartisan group  Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-Staten Island/South Brooklyn), Borough President Vito Fossella, District Attorney Michael McMahon, State Sen. Andrew Lanza (R-South Shore), State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton (D-North Shore/South Brooklyn), Assemblyman Michael Reilly (R-South Shore), Assemblyman Michael Tannousis (R-East Shore/South Brooklyn), Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo (R-Mid-Island), City Councilwoman Kamillah Hanks (D-North Shore), City Councilman Joseph Borelli (R-South Shore), and City Councilman David Carr (R-Mid-Island)  wrote in their letter that they recently learned the city had yet to reach a final contract with the sites owner, a non-profit organization called Homes for the Homeless, and that lack of contract offered the city an opportunity to reverse course.

Spokespersons for Adams and Lander did not respond to requests for comment by the time of publication, but city officials have previously identified the Father Capodanno Boulevard location as a possible migrant shelter site.

We strongly urge the City to forego any plans to enter a lease with [Homes for the Homeless] for the purposes of housing migrants. We also request a commitment from Comptroller Lander to not register any such contract, the Staten Island elected officials wrote. Instead, lets work together to immediately return this facility to its intended use as a senior assisted living facility by finding a suitable buyer for the Homes for the Homeless property and to keep it as a senior facility for the residents of Staten Island.

News first broke of changes coming to the location in September of last year when the Advance/SILive.com reported that Homes for the Homeless was moving to sell the building.

In a Sept. 26, 2022 letter to residents, Island Shores management sent notice that a possible sale meant the 53 people living there would need to find new housing by March 1, 2023.

A spokesperson for the non-profit organization has deferred requests for comment to city officials.

The site opened in the 1970s as Midland Manor  a senior living facility under different ownership  but transitioned to a womens shelter after Homes for the Homeless purchased the site in 1987.

Homes for the Homeless returned to senior housing in 1999 after the city, under former Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, declined to award a 5-year contract worth $15 million for the organization to continue the shelter. Locals reacted positively to the change, according to reporting from the time.

I havent slept, I really cant believe this, Yasmin Ammirato, president of the Midland Beach Civic Association, said at the time. We had to accept the shelter, and we did the best we could. Now its time for something more positive in the community. I think its great.

An Advance clip from 1999 broke news about a former women's shelter's transition to senior housing. (Advance file)

In their Thursday letter, the group of Staten Island elected officials said the site should be returned to senior housing as the local senior population continues to rise without adequate affordable housing options.

The city continues to see an influx of migrants into the five borough with thousands coming each week and nearly 110,000 new arrivals since spring of 2022. However, the number in the citys care has seemingly capped at 60,000 in recent weeks due, in part, to upped citys efforts to transition the new arrivals out of shelters.

As the city continues to deal with the crisis, Adams said last week that he doesnt see an end to the crisis in site.

Im gonna tell you something, New Yorkers, never in my life have I had a problem that I didnt see an ending to. I dont see an ending to this, he said. This issue will destroy New York City. Destroy New York City.

MORE LOCAL NEWS

Staten Islanders present case against St. John Villa shelter, but judge yet to make decision

NYC wants to see migrants get to work

Hundreds of construction and long-term jobs to be added to Staten Island shipping terminal as new tenant invests $200M+

Access to Disney-owned channels, like ABC and ESPN, to resume for Spectrum customers

Snug Harbor institutions net $11M in NYC funding for site-wide improvements

Migrant supporters message of positivity drowned out by protestors outside St. John Villa shelter
Utah Senator Rep. Mitt Romney announced he wont be running for reelection in a Capitol Hill news conference on Wednesday, ending a two-decade-long political career.

Mr. Romney, 76, suggested that its time to pave the way for the next generations young leaders, calling upon President Biden, 80, and Former President Donald Trump, 77, to step away from running for reelection and to end the political tenure of baby boomers.

In a video statement released on Romneys Senate website, he said that he would be in his mid-eighties at the end of another term and that its time for a new generation of leaders that will make the decision for the world they will live in.

Neither President Biden nor former President Trump are leading their party to confront them, said Romney in the video statement. On the deficits and debt, both men refuse to address entitlements even though they represent two thirds of federal spending.

Romney has led a polished career as Massachusetts governor from 2003 to 2007, as the 2012 GOP Presidential nominee, and as a Utah Senator since 2018. Becoming a member of the Republican Party presented considerable challenges for Romney, particularly considering the transformation the party underwent with the rise of Trump, which led to its fragmentation into various factions.

The Utah Senator said at the news conference that he belongs to the wise wing of the Republican party and doesnt think it will fade away.

My wing of the party talks about policy and about issues that will make a difference in the lives of the American people. The Trump wing of the party talks about resentments of various kinds and getting even and settling scores and revisiting the 2020 election.

In 2016, Romney denounced Trump, a GOP Presidential Candidate, during a speech in Utah, calling him a phony and a fraud who is unfit for the White House, according to the Associated Press.

The Associated Press also reported that when Romney accepted Trumps endorsement during the primary race for the 2018 Senate run, Romney pledged in an op-ed that year that he would continue to speak out when the president says or does something which is divisive, racist, sexist, anti-immigrant, dishonest or destructive to democratic institutions.

Throughout his career, Romney was known for having values that steered far from the partys agenda, often making him an outlier. In 2020, the senator marched in Washington for a protest against police brutality, posting an image online with the caption, Black Lives Matter, making a rare statement for a member of his party.

Despite his retirement, Romney is planning to get more young people to vote and to engage them in political processes.

While Im not running for re-election, Im not retiring from the fight. Ill be your United States Senator until January 2025. I will keep working on these and other issues and I will advance our states numerous priorities. I look forward to working with you and with folks across our state and nation in that endeavor.

Associated Press material was used in this report.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- One Staten Islander is making sure the migrants currently housed at the former St. John Villa Academy are hearing his message loud and clear; theyre not welcome in the Arrochar community.

Scott Herkert, whose property is adjacent to the former school, has been one of the leading opponents of the citys St. John Villa migrant shelter, helping organize the ongoing protests and placing a massive sign on his lawn that reads NO F%*KIN WAY!

Hes now taken things a step further, installing a loudspeaker on his front lawn that blared unwelcoming messages on Tuesday to the migrants housed nearby, stating immigrants are not safe here and imploring them to seek shelter in other parts of New York City, according to an Associated Press report.

However, several reporters from the Staten Island Advance/SILive.com visited the site on Wednesday and it appeared as though the loudspeaker had been turned off.

The message, which was running on loop in English, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Urdu and Chinese, stated that the school building is infested with roaches and mold, a claim that migrants disputed, though the repeated hostility being spewed their way has begun to make them question their safety.

We have to close our eyes and close our ears, Aminetou El Alewai, a 39-year-old woman from Mauritania, told the Associated Press. We are good people. We are not criminals. We came because of problems in our country.

I came as a refugee to New York and they brought me here. Indeed, I am not comfortable here, Alewai added.

Kayla Mamelak, a spokesperson for the Mayors Office, told the Associated Press that the administration was disturbed to learn of the loudspeaker message and noted that the NYPD is working to maintain peace in the area.

As always, New York City continues to provide care for asylum seekers with compassion and care, Mamelak added.

The loudspeaker message was defended by Councilman David Carr (R-Mid-Island), a St. John Villa Academy graduate, who described it as a protected First Amendment right.

This is an opportunity for folks in the neighborhood who are angry to demonstrate that constructively, Carr told the Associated Press. Theyre just trying to ensure that their voices are heard.

While the loudspeaker message is clearly supported by many members of the community, as evident by the massive protests that have taken place outside the shelter, not everyone in the neighborhood is onboard.

This is New York City, nearby resident John Gurriera told the Associated Press. We all came from someplace else.

Since the spring of last year, nearly 110,000 migrants, who the Adams administration identifies as asylum seekers, have made their way to the five boroughs, prompting the city to set up more than 200 emergency shelters across the city.

About 60,000 of those migrants remain in the citys care, with the city consistently putting Staten Islands share of the housing capacity at roughly 2% throughout the crisis.

On Staten Island, emergency shelters have been set up at several hotels and inside the former Richard H. Hungerford School on Tompkins Avenue in Clifton.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  About 40,000 migrants currently in city shelters are over the age of 18, and Mayor Eric Adams announced a new push Wednesday to get them to work.

City officials will conduct in-person surveys to determine how many of those people are currently eligible for work, and as of Tuesday, had interviewed about 10,000 people.

For months, New York City has spoken with one voice, urging the federal government to put asylum seekers on the path to independence and Let Them Work, Adams said. As Washington continues to leave New York City and other cities across the nation to manage this national humanitarian crisis largely on its own, we continue to fill the leadership void left by our federal partners by providing migrants with a place to stay and a range of services, utilizing a unique model to help thousands of arrivals apply for asylum. But our message remains loud and clear: New York City needs significant and timely support from our state and federal partners to tackle this national issue.

More than 100,000 migrants have made their way to the five boroughs since the crisis started, and the Adams administration has made repeated calls for the federal government to allow more of them to work.

However, some migrants admitted to the country are granted parole, and people with those status can apply for work authorization.

If granted authorization, the migrants, who Adams administration has identified as asylum seekers, are able to work legally during the parole period, which can last anywhere from a few months to a few years.

City officials will also help any migrants who have yet to do so apply for asylum during their in-person surveys. Since June, the city has helped 3,800 migrants, of the 60,000 in its care, apply for asylum.

The influx of new arrivals into the five boroughs has prompted city officials to set up more than 200 emergency shelters.

MORE LOCAL NEWS

Hundreds of construction and long-term jobs to be added to Staten Island shipping terminal as new tenant invests $200M+

Access to Disney-owned channels, like ABC and ESPN, to resume for Spectrum customers

Snug Harbor institutions net $11M in NYC funding for site-wide improvements

Migrant supporters message of positivity drowned out by protestors outside St. John Villa shelter

NYC says Travis migrant shelters will continue despite local opposition
So were supposed to fact-check impeachment claims before we actually launch impeachment proceedings?

Thats refreshing.

Thats whats playing out in Washington right now after GOP House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced an impeachment inquiry against Democratic President Joe Biden.

The inquiry is centered on Bidens alleged involvement in the shady foreign business dealings of his neer do well son, Hunter.

The Biden White House promptly fired off a memo to media outlets, demanding that they vigorously fact-check all the claims being made against Biden and Son.

The Biden folks were even good enough to include talking points in the memo in the form of rebuttals to seven GOP impeachment claims, just to make sure that state media types like CNN, the Washington Post and the New York Times were all on the same page.

Its not the truth that matters here, really, but the repetition of the agreed-upon story until its accepted as fact or crowds out any alternative viewpoints. Thats the benefit of Big Media amplification. Its a huge weapon in the Democrats arsenal.

Funny that Biden should demand an airing of the impeachment charges when the media has been bending over backward to mention Hunters shenanigans as little as possible.

But like the good apparatchiks that they are, there was CNN doing some impeachment fact-checking on the GOP on Wednesday, dutifully reading from the White House script.

Funny too how those on the left are saying Biden cant be impeached because theres no evidence that he did anything wrong.

When it was Donald Trumps turn in the barrel, it was perfectly fine to use impeachment proceedings as a fact-finding mission against the president.

Where theres smoke theres fire, we were told, weve got to investigate this stuff.

Well, when it comes to Hunters big-money deals and dads possible involvement and benefit, theres more smoke than youll see from a tire factory fire. Only now, nobody wants to look.

Never mind that the whole Russia collusion tale that led to the first Trump impeachment was built on a lie from the very beginning. And that those involved knew that it was a lie.

And the media was more than willing to go along, accepting everything that anti-Trump Democrats, top Justice Department officials and intelligence sources spoon-fed them as gospel while doing no journalistic due diligence of their own.

Democracy does indeed die in darkness.

You didnt see any fact-checking then because that would have confirmed that the collusion story rested on the flimsy Steele dossier, a tissue of mistruths in large part bought and paid for by Trumps 2016 White House opponent, Democrat Hillary Clinton.

It goes beyond irony that the Dems themselves were up to their eyebrows in the very kind of foreign money entanglements and election interference efforts that they wrongly accused Trump of.

Remember too that the existence of Hunters infamous laptop was universally dismissed as Russian disinformation by these very same news outlets, and that New York Post stories about the laptop were disappeared from social media in a move worth of Stalin.

Now the media leaps to do Bidens bidding when it comes to a GOP impeachment inquiry.

At least theyre consistent.

MORE OPINION FROM TOM WROBLESKI

Staten Island, NYC not going quietly when it comes to Biden-created migrant crisis | Opinion

Five cars damaged in a parking lot crash? Only in one of the worst parking lots on Staten Island | Opinion

Think NYC speed cameras are bad? Check out all the ways that Seattle uses the devices to rip off drivers | Opinion
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A Staten Island Supreme Court judge said Thursday that he would make a decision in due time about whats next for the migrant shelter at the former St. John Villa Academy in Arrochar.

Judge Wayne Ozzi said the decision about whether to close the shelter would be his top priority after hearing arguments from the Staten Islanders opposed to the site, and the city officials trying to keep it open.

This matter deserves a very close look and Im going to come out with a determination in writing as soon as I can, Ozzi said. Im going to give it my number one priority.

The judge had previously sided with the Staten Islanders, represented by Attorneys Mark Fonte and Louis Gelormino, granting a temporary restraining order Aug. 25 that would have closed the site, but a quick appeal from the city saw that decision overturned within hours.

Attorney Mark Fonte speaks during a hearing at Staten Island Supreme Court held Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023 regarding the St. John Villa migrant shelter. (Pool: Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel)

Since then, the site has operated as one of the citys 208 shelters set up in response to the ongoing migrant crisis that has seen nearly 110,000 people make their way to the five boroughs since spring of 2022, about 60,000 of whom remain in the citys care.

Chad Hughes, the city attorney representing Mayor Eric Adams side of the argument, said that as of Wednesday night, 72 people were living at the Villa location at the intersection of Landis Avenue and Chicago Avenue.

The crux of the citys argument focused on their position that the migrant issue is an ongoing emergency, and Adams executive orders in response to that emergency permit the city to lift some of the requirements typically associated with siting homeless shelters.

Fonte and Gelormino questioned whether the ongoing influx of migrants, about 3,000 of whom arrive each week, amounts to an emergency as the issue is tied, in part, to the citys generous policies around housing and caring for homeless people, particularly its right to shelter.

That policy, established through decades of legal actions, mandates that anyone seeking shelter in the five boroughs must be granted it regardless of citizenship status. Adams administration has a separate court case in Manhattan that is seeking to limit that right to shelter.

Hughes pointed out that given the current reality of the right to shelter, to which the city is legally required to adhere, and the emergency-nature of the migrant issue, the city has a legal obligation to house the new arrivals at shelters around the city.

City attorneys Alice Baker and Chad Hughes sit in Staten Island Supreme Court ahead of a Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023 hearing regarding the St. John Villa migrant shelter. (Pool: Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel)

Throughout the crisis, city officials have maintained that just 2% of the new arrivals are being housed on Staten Island, which shares about 6% of the citys population, but Fonte and Gelormino argued the specific shelter still represents an undue burden for Scott Herkert, their main client who is a direct neighbor of the St. John Villa location.

Herkert and his lawyers, who are also representing Staten Islands Republican elected officials in the matter, have repeatedly said that the shower trailers next to his backyard, along with the electric generators used to operate them, have created a nuisance that has limited his quality of life.

The St. John Villa neighbor has said that the noise from the generators and the stench from the showers and garbage bin adjacent to his property line has made his backyard unusable.

Attorney Mark Fonte representing those that oppose the shelter speaks after the hearing held in Richmond County Supreme Court, New York Court of Claims on Thursday about a lawsuit filed by a neighbor of the former St. John Villa Academy and Staten Island's Republican elected officials about housing migrants at the Arrochar site. (Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel)

Herkert is not seeking monetary damages in this case, but Hughes suggested he could gain relief by doing so. During his argument, Fonte anticipated that response and said that no payout from City Hall could compensate for the damage to Herkerts quality of life.

On your dying day, you dont look and view your life with how much money you take to the grave. Its how much time you spent with your loved ones, he said. These days can never be given back.

Ozzi peppered both sides with questions and interruptions throughout the hearing even becoming mildly contentious with Hughes at one point over the lawyers pronunciation of the word cognizable.

Attorney Mark Fonte representing those that oppose the shelter speaks after the hearing held in Richmond County Supreme Court, New York Court of Claims on Thursday about a lawsuit filed by a neighbor of the former St. John Villa Academy and Staten Island's Republican elected officials about housing migrants at the Arrochar site. (Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel)

By the end of Thursdays hearing, the Staten Island judge said he needed time to review the arguments before making a decision, and outside the Central Avenue courthouse, Gelormino anticipated an appeal from whichever side Ozzi rules against.

The two attorneys joined the Republican elected officials to continue voicing their opposition against the St. John Villa shelter, which has been the site of continued protests since the city confirmed its opening on Aug. 21.

While the judge is not going to make a determination today, if anybody with an ounce of common sense was listening to the arguments in that courtroom, they would recognize that well prevail, Borough President Vito Fossella said as he was joined by State Sen. Andrew Lanza (R-South Shore), Assemblyman Michael Reilly (R-South Shore), Assemblyman Michael Tannousis (R-East Shore/South Brooklyn), and Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo (R-Mid-Island) after the hearing.

Earlier Thursday, that group along with City Councilman Joseph Borelli (R-South Shore), State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton (D-North Shore/South Brooklyn), and representatives from the offices of Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-Staten Island/South Brooklyn) and City Councilman David Carr (R-Mid-Island), held a press conference outside the courthouse speaking out against the shelter.

A spokesperson for the city Law Department did not respond to a request for comment by the time of publication, but Mayor Eric Adams said last week that he doesnt see an end to the crisis in site.

NYC Law Department attorney Chad Hughes at the hearing held in Richmond County Supreme Court on Thursday about a lawsuit filed by a neighbor of the former St. John Villa Academy and Staten Island's Republican elected officials about housing migrants at the Arrochar site. (Pool: Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel)

Im gonna tell you something, New Yorkers, never in my life have I had a problem that I didnt see an ending to. I dont see an ending to this, he said. This issue will destroy New York City. Destroy New York City.

MORE LOCAL NEWS

NYC wants to see migrants get to work

Hundreds of construction and long-term jobs to be added to Staten Island shipping terminal as new tenant invests $200M+

Access to Disney-owned channels, like ABC and ESPN, to resume for Spectrum customers

Snug Harbor institutions net $11M in NYC funding for site-wide improvements

Migrant supporters message of positivity drowned out by protestors outside St. John Villa shelter
Christopher Jones promoted to Major

Gregory J. Emery promoted to Captain



Kyle L. Kutz promoted to Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Paris promoted Kyle L. Kutz to Lieutenant and assigned him as the Director of the Operational Records Division, Bureau of Records and Identification.



A native of Pine Grove Township, Lieutenant Kutz enlisted with the State Police in 2008. Upon graduation from the Academy, he was assigned to Troop J, Embreeville.



As a Trooper, Lieutenant Kutz served in Troops J, L, and at the Penn National Hollywood Casino, Bureau of Gaming Enforcement.



Lieutenant Kutz was promoted to Corporal in 2016 and Sergeant in 2018, serving in Troop J, Lancaster, and as the Administrative Division Supervisor, Bureau of Gaming Enforcement.



He is a 2005 graduate of Blue Mountain High School and a 2007 graduate of Lehigh Carbon Community College.

Monica Akins promoted to Troop Administrative Manager Colonel Christopher Paris promoted Monica Akins to Troop Administrative Manager at Troop M, Bethlehem.



A native of Carbon County, Akins began her career with the Pennsylvania State Police in 2012 as a Clerk Typist 2 at Troop P, Wyoming. In March of 2013, she transferred to Troop N, Lehighton, where she served as a Clerical Assistant 2 for 10 years.



In May of 2022, she was promoted to Clerical Assistant 3 and transferred to Troop M, Bethlehem. On April 1, 2023, she was promoted to her current position.



Akins is 1987 graduate of Marian High School in Tamaqua.

These promotions were recognized during a ceremony on September 7th, 2023.Colonel Christopher Paris promoted Christopher Jones to Major and assigned him as Director of the Department Discipline Office.A native of Shenandoah, Major Jones most recently served as Director of the Internal Affairs Division, Bureau of Integrity and Professional Standards.Major Jones enlisted in the State Police in 2001. Upon graduation from the Academy, he was assigned to Troop J, Avondale.As he progressed through his career, he served in various Patrol and Criminal Investigation units in Troops J and H. He also served as Executive Officer to the Deputy Commissioner of Administration and Professional Responsibility and as Executive Officer to the Deputy Commissioner of Operations. He also served in the Bureau of Integrity and Professional Standards, Systems and Process Review Division, and the Internal Affairs Division.Major Jones was promoted to Corporal in 2011, Sergeant in 2016, Lieutenant in 2018, and Captain in 2021.Major Jones graduated from Shenandoah Valley High School, attended Laramie College, and served in the United States Air Force. Major Jones is also a graduate of the Northwestern University Center for Public Safety, School of Police Staff and Command.Colonel Christopher Paris promoted Gregory J. Emery to Captain and assigned him to the Bureau of Integrity and Professional Standards.A native of Pottsville, Captain Emery most recently served as the Station Commander at Troop M, Fogelsville.Captain Emery enlisted in the State Police in 1999. Upon graduation from the Academy, he was assigned to Troop M, Bethlehem. As he progressed through his career, he served in Troop M as a Patrol Trooper and a Patrol Supervisor. He was a member of the Troop M Vice Unit and the Bureau of Integrity and Professional Standards, Internal Affairs Division-East.Captain Emery graduated from Moravian College in 1991, and the Allentown Municipal Police Academy in 1993. He served as a Perkasie Borough Police Officer from 1993 to 1999.
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!
A South African-born billionaire Timothy Nash took fragmentary remains of human relatives (the Australopithecines sediba and Homo naledi) on a trip to the edge of space, which were kept in his pocket in a cigar-shaped container during the flight. It is claimed that this was done to popularize science and to honor the contribution of ancient people to the development of mankind, but archaeologists say they are horrified by this fact.

ADVERTISIMENT

This was reported by LiveScience. Nash's flight took place on September 8 when the Virgin Galactic plane took off from Spaceport America in New Mexico.

As noted, Nash himself is not the owner of the fossils. He received them thanks to Lee Berger, a researcher at the National Geographic Society and director of the Centre for Exploration of the Deep Human Journey at the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa, who played an important role in the discovery of both species of ancient people.

Berger, commenting on Nash's decision, said that "the journey of these fossils into space represents humanity's gratitude for the contribution of all human ancestors and our ancient relatives" to evolution.

At the same time, other scientists are concerned and appalled by such negligence towards important historical remains. In particular, they appeal to the fact that such a trip to the upper atmosphere would have been completely incomprehensible to ancient people.

ADVERTISIMENT

For example, biological anthropologist Alessio Veneziano outlined the main problems with such a decision on X (formerly known as Twitter). According to him, there is no scientific justification for taking the remains of ancient people to the edge of space. In addition, such actions raise ethical issues related to respect for the remains of human ancestors.

He is also concerned about Berger's access to the fossils, which few researchers have. He also accuses the scientist of "distorting the practice of paleoanthropology."

According to the newspaper, Berger's request for permission, which was eventually approved by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA), stated that the purpose of the trip was to popularize science and global recognition of human origins research in South Africa. In other words, the scientist himself did not even pretend that such an action had any scientific purpose.

ADVERTISIMENT

For his part, Justin Walsh, a professor of art and archaeology at Chapman University in the United States, noted that space archaeologists are certainly interested in studying the effects of the space environment on objects in space, adding "I don't think we would use a piece of heritage from Earth as a test sample to see what happens to it."

"I am appalled that they have been granted permission," wrote Sonya Zakrzewska, a bioarchaeologist at the University of Southampton in the UK.

She emphasized that such actions are the best example of unethical approaches, they are not science.

Walsh also added that fossilized bones are not just scientific specimens but the remains of our common ancestors, which should be treated with respect. He suggested that to obtain permission to send them into space, the fossils were categorized as paleontological rather than human remains, bypassing ethical and legal issues.

ADVERTISIMENT

It is worth noting that very few fossilized hominin casts other than Homo naledi are available for study and public viewing, often due to a lack of financial and material resources in the countries where they were found.

The fossils were brought aboard Virgin Galactic by Nash, whose father John made his fortune in aviation. Nash was one of the first people to buy a ticket for the second commercial flight of Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic spaceplane. Nash has also been friends with Lee Berger for more than a decade and owns most of the so-called "Cradle of Humankind", including the land where A. sediba was discovered, which he hopes to develop into a "paleo-tourism" industry.

Earlier OBOZREVATEL reported that a skull of a previously unknown human species was found in China.

Subscribe to OBOZREVATEL on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest news.
Since he left Qantas, Alan Joyces behaviour as chief executive has increasingly been portrayed as a bull in a china shop, and now it falls to the Qantas board to explain why it allowed him to rampage for so long doing incalculable damage to the national carriers reputation and future earnings.

Even if it can do so, it is hard to see chairman Richard Goyder surviving the odour continuing to waft around Qantas.

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of Joyces Qantas career is how such an esteemed and seasoned board allowed him to run unfettered for so long. After all, Goyders business credentials are impeccable, and he has long experience in running successful companies and corporate governance. The West Australian was CEO of Wesfarmers and oversaw the 2007 purchase of the Coles Group, one of the biggest acquisitions in Australian corporate history, and he now not only heads the Qantas board but is chair of the Australian Football League and Woodside Petroleum.

But the reality is that post-Joyce, Goyder and the board have been left carrying the can for all that seems to have gone wrong.
Bruce Lehrmann, the former Liberal staffer accused of raping Brittany Higgins, is no longer keeping a low profile. With his rape trial aborted last year and a retrial shelved, Lehrmann, whos planning to sue the ACT government over the prosecution, was spotted having drinks with Kiama MP Gareth Ward at Martin Place watering hole Verandah Bar this week. Gareth Ward (left) and Bruce Lehrmann (right) at Verandah Bar in Martin Place. Ward, formerly of the Liberal Party, is facing court over sexual assault charges, to which hes pleaded not guilty. While Premier Chris Minns promised to suspend him from parliament, the privileges committee effectively blocked that, finding that doing so would undermine the presumption of innocence. None of this history was up for discussion on Wednesday night apparently, which was just a case of a couple of dudes getting together for a drink, were told.

The pair were joined by former Liberal dirt unit operative and inveterate Twitter stirrer John Macgowan, whos been working for Lehrmann as a kind of PR consultant. FARE SHARE Labor Senator Tony Sheldon has little love for Qantas and its former chief executive Alan Joyce. Sheldon, a former Transport Workers Union secretary described the state Joyce left the company in as disgraceful following the Irishmans early departure last week. And during Joyces fatally wounding appearance before the Senate last month, Sheldon asked the boss if he felt embarrassed about his astronomical pay packet.

So Sheldons recent declaration of a shareholding in Qantas itself had us wondering whether Joyces departure had led the Senator to soften his tune on the embattled carrier. No chance. Sheldon enjoyed grilling the last CEO so much that he bought the shares as a chance to get stuck into the new boss Vanessa Hudson at the November annual general meeting over Joyces $24 million payout, and what Sheldon calls the biggest illegal sacking in Australian history. Labor MP Tony Sheldon speaks after the Qantas decision. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen I look forward to seeing Ms Hudson  and Mr [Qantas chair Richard] Goyder if hes still refused to take responsibility for his illegal sacking of 1700 people by then  at the Qantas AGM, Sheldon told CBD. Hudson has done a good job of hiding from public and media scrutiny since the High Court decision, I hope she plans on being more accessible and accountable to shareholders at the AGM.

Sheldon is one of just three MPs who arent members of Qantas exclusive chairmans lounge, having declined the airlines offer. Thanks to recent bad press, that number is growing. On Thursday, Greens MP Elizabeth Watson-Brown cancelled her membership, and were tipping a few more MPs to follow suit. LACHLANS LAW Lachlan Murdochs legal woes over Fox News reporting of the 2020 US presidential election appear to be never-ending. The heir apparent to the global media empire controlled by his father Rupert Murdoch has been named in a fresh case against the right-wing network, filed by the pension funds of New York City teachers, firefighters and other municipal workers  with the state of Oregons employee pension fund as co-plaintiff.

The funds, which have substantial Fox shareholdings, allege Lachlan, who is chief executive of Fox Corp, Rupert and other board members consciously disregarded the risk of defamation action, and the potential financial consequences, from the claims about the election being stolen made by the networks on-air presenters. The case cites what the plaintiffs call Foxs illegal business model of pursuing profits by committing actionable defamation and they allege that the company undertook no good-faith efforts to monitor for or mitigate defamation risk. Lachlan Murdochs decision to settle with Crikey is looking increasingly wise. Credit: Bloomberg The result, according to the shareholders claim, lodged in the Delaware Court of Chancery, was the $1.2 billion settlement with voting machine company Dominion Voting Systems, and theres a big case still in the works from another voting machine outfit, Smartmatic. There are yet more cases on the go  including at least another two shareholder actions  and its hard to say where all of this will end for Fox and the Murdochs.
South African-born billionaire Timothy Nash took with him on a trip to the edge of space fragmentary remains of human relatives - Australopithecus sediba and Homo naledi, which during the flight were in his pocket in a cigar-shaped container. It is claimed that this was done for the sake of popularizing science and to honor the contribution of ancient humans to the development of mankind, but archaeologists say they are frightened by such a prank.

ADVERTISIMENT

About it tells the publication LiveScience. Nash's flight took place on September 8, when the Virgin Galactic plane took off from Spaceport America in New Mexico.

As noted, Nash himself does not own the fossils, but received them thanks to National Geographic Society researcher and director of the Center for the Study of Human Deep Travel at the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa, Lee Berger, who was instrumental in the discovery of both species of ancient humans.

Berger, commenting on Nash's decision, said that "the journey of these fossils into space epitomizes humanity's gratitude for the contributions of all of humanity's ancestors and our long-ago relatives" to evolution.

That said, other scientists are concerned and frightened by such negligence toward important historical remains. In particular, they appeal to the fact that such a journey to the upper atmosphere would have been completely incomprehensible for ancient people.

ADVERTISIMENT

Thus, biological anthropologist Alessio Veneziano in the social network X (formerly known as Twitter) outlined the main problems of such a solution. According to him, there is no scientific justification for flying the remains of the most ancient humans to the edge of space. In addition, such actions raise ethical issues related to respect for the remains of human ancestors.

He is also concerned about Berger's access to fossils that few other researchers have. It also accuses the scientist of "distorting the practice of paleoanthropology."

As the publication notes, Berger's permit request, which was approved by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA), noted that the purpose of the trip was to promote science and global recognition of research on human origins in South Africa. That is, the scientist himself did not even pretend that such an action had any scientific purpose.

ADVERTISIMENT

In turn, Justin Walsh, a professor of art and archaeology at Chapman University in the United States, said that space archaeologists are certainly interested in studying the effects of the space environment on objects in space, "but I don't think we would use a piece of heritage from Earth as a test sample" to see what happens to it.

"I'm terrified that they got permission," wrote Sonya Zakrzewska, a bioarchaeologist at the University of Southampton in the United Kingdom.

She noted that such actions by scientists are the best example of unethical approaches and most definitely not science.

Earlier OBOZREVATEL told about the fact that in China discovered the skull of a previously unknown species of man.

Subscribe to OBOZREVATEL channels in Telegram and Viber to be aware of the latest events.
Advertisement

Eating outRestaurant news Why one of Melbournes most on-trend restaurant dishes may disappear from menus Melbourne restaurateurs say they are getting a raw deal with the introduction of the Victorian Department of Healths list of eight high-risk food items. Emma Breheny September 14, 2023 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

One of Melbournes most on-trend restaurant dishes, steak tartare, is at risk of disappearing from menus as a set of new food safety rules make it more difficult and more expensive to serve dishes authorities have deemed high-risk. Beef tartare, featuring raw meat and egg yolk, may vanish from Melbourne menus. Bonnie Savage One Fitzroy North restaurant has already been visited unannounced by their local health inspector and asked to remove a tartare dish from their menu or pay for a bespoke food safety program if they want to keep serving it. I have too many battles to fight, so we left this one, says Neighbourhood Wine co-owner Almay Jordaan. Jordaan says the spot-check happened two weeks before City of Yarra sent her any information about the new statewide laws.

Advertisement

In August 2022, the Victorian Department of Health identified hamburgers cooked rare, and raw red meat dishes such as steak tartare and kibbeh nayeh, on a list of eight high-risk items that now need special food safety programs in place. Almay Jordaan, co-owner and chef at Old Palm Liquor in Brunswick East and Neighbourhood Wine in Fitzroy has already rewritten menus to comply with the new rules. Supplied The list ranges from well-known risky foods, such as raw egg mayonnaise, to fermented vegetables, recipes used by many cultures for centuries to preserve produce. Sushi and other raw fish are not within the governments sights. Carpaccio, an Italian dish comprising wafer-thin slices of raw beef, is also exempt. Any venue preparing an item deemed high-risk needs to have a specially written food safety program in place that is independently audited. Businesses have to arrange and pay for this.

Advertisement

Asked why commonplace menu items such as tartare and kibbeh nayeh, a Lebanese raw meat dish, have been singled out, a health department spokesperson said: Theres always been a requirement for food service businesses that prepare raw meat for consumption to develop audited food safety programs. Theres been no change to this requirement. Where has been this pattern of people getting sick or even mildly sick from these dishes? In all my time in kitchens, no one has ever said Youve got to be careful preparing this dish. Joseph Abboud, Rumi However, the big change is that restaurants are now required to develop non-standard food safety programs for the foods that have been deemed high-risk. Jordaan estimates it will take several months and cost $2000 or more to develop a safety program and have it independently approved. One council officer she spoke to said lab testing for pH levels would also be necessary. Rather than go through the new process, Jordaan chose to stop serving venison tartare at Neighbourhood Wine. Im too small to fight that, she says.

Advertisement

Her other venue, Old Palm Liquor in Brunswick East, serves veal carpaccio with pickles and labne, a cheese-like strained yoghurt. That dish, according to Merri-bek council, is safe. So far, it appears that City of Yarra is the only council raising the alarm on raw red meat. While the law was changed more than a year ago, several businesses Good Food spoke to in different local government areas had not received any communication from authorities. Many restaurants continue to serve tartare, unaware they are doing anything wrong. Joseph Abboud, outside his restaurant Rumi, asks where the evidence is of people getting sick from raw meat. Justin McManus

Advertisement

I just dont understand what its based on, says veteran restaurateur-chef Joseph Abboud, of contemporary Lebanese restaurant Rumi. Where has been this pattern of people getting sick or even mildly sick from these dishes? In all my time in kitchens, no one has ever said, Youve got to be careful preparing this dish. And Ive never heard of anyone having a [health] issue with it. The department of health did not respond to questions about whether a specific health incident had prompted the change. Dani Zeini, owner of nine Royal Stacks hamburger restaurants, is not concerned about the rule change because his restaurants already cook their hamburger patties medium to well-done. Royal Stacks already cooks its burgers medium to well-done. Eugene Hyland

Advertisement

He says they changed the recipe several years ago to something closer to a smash patty, a thinner burger that is pressed during cooking so it has more surface area, in response to changes to food safety laws. He believes many other hamburger joints have also switched to the smash patty and will not be affected. While Zeini would like to give the customer the option of a rarer burger, he understands where authorities are coming from. Keeping the public safe is really important, he says. Restaurants, meanwhile, are scratching their heads about how the list of high-risk items was developed. Ive had tartare on the menu since we opened. And I know that its on loads of different menus, says Jordaan. Neighbourhood Wine was also told to refrigerate 80 kilograms of pickles that were stored on shelves in the restaurant after being heat-sealed.

Advertisement

Many are expressing frustration and disbelief that their menus can be reshaped by authorities without evidence of danger to the public. I feel like this is one step towards making food in restaurants homogenous, says Jordaan. Its not just restaurants [affected], she adds. Its suppliers as well, who sell things to be used for this application and now they cant. The eight high-risk food activities being targeted Sous-vide cooking (cooking at less than 75C) Any potentially hazardous food that does not involve temperature control to minimise the growth of pathogenic or toxigenic organisms Preparation of acidified/fermented foods or drinks that are ready to eat and have a high level of acidity required to keep food safe Preparation of ready-to-eat foods containing raw unshelled eggs (unpasteurised) Preparation of ready-to-eat raw or rare minced/finely chopped red meats Preparation of ready-to-eat raw and rare poultry and game meats Off-site catering where ready-to-eat, potentially hazardous food is prepared or partially prepared in one location, transported to another location, where the food is served at a catering event Any other complex food process activity such as: Pasteurisation/thermal processing

Packaging food where the oxygen has been removed and/or replaced with other gases for food safety or to increase shelf-life of the food

Any food processing activity which does not involve the use of temperature control to minimise the growth of pathogenic or toxigenic organisms in food Source: Victorian Health Department

Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up
Advertisement

Eating outRestaurant news Try hard-to-find Sri Lankan street food at Surry Hills newest restaurant The family behind Dulwich Hill cafe The Fold are bringing their culinary chops to Kurumba, a restaurant and wine bar in a converted terrace house. Bianca Hrovat September 14, 2023 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

1 / 6 Lobster kottu is the signature dish at Kurumba, Surry Hills. Yusuke Oba 2 / 6 Seeni sambol puffs. Yusuke Oba 3 / 6 Sydney rock oysters with kalamansi, coconut water and coriander root. Yusuke Oba 4 / 6 Faluda soft serve with rose syrup, crystallised pistachio and crispy vermicelli. Yusuke Oba 5 / 6 Kajugama tiger prawns with chilli cashewnut butter and blood orange. Yusuke Oba 6 / 6 Chocolate biscuit pudding. Yusuke Oba Previous Slide Next Slide The family behind Dulwich Hill cafe The Fold have opened Kurumba, a celebration of Sri Lankan street food in a converted Surry Hills terrace house. The 45-seat venue features an informal 15-seat hopper bar on the ground floor, where the fermented rice pancakes are pan-fried in front of customers and served with a selection of house made condiments like spicy onion jam and chilli lime sambal. Upstairs, the restaurant (set to open mid-to-late-September) serves a tight menu of food inspired by executive chef Augustus De Hoedts childhood in Sri Lanka. Kurumba is a family-run restaurant in Surry Hills. Yusuke Oba

Advertisement

Were showing off a different side of Sri Lankan cuisine, says co-owner and son Travin De Hoedt, who has come on board as the executive pastry chef. De Hoedt points to the restaurants signature dish, lobster kottu. Kottu is typically a casual dish with roti, curried meat, egg and vegetables, cleaved into small pieces as they fry on a hot grill. Its something youd buy from a street vendor on the way home from a night out, or youll pull together for an easy breakfast, he says. But weve elevated it with lobster from Western Australia, served in a lobster head curry. We use our own roasted curry powder and homemade roti. Roast chicken with coconut curry sauce and Ceylon arrack. Yusuke Oba

Advertisement

There are also seeni sambol puffs, with spicy onion jam and buffalo curds from Marrickville cheese maker Vanella; smoked brisket pain rolls with pineapple ketchup; and Lankan devilled fish. The dishes are available a la carte or as part of an $85 tasting menu, and while the drinks list favours wine (developed in partnership with sommeliers from Franca and Armorica), therell also be a selection of Sri Lankan spirits and a signature treacle beer made as part of a collaboration with Newcastle brewers Bread and Brewery. Interiors are lush and green, with furniture and paintings created by Sri Lankan artists and manufacturers. Therell be a selection of Sri Lankan spirits available at the bar. Supplied De Hoedt explains his family has long dreamed of opening an upscale Sri Lankan restaurant in Sydney, but never expected they would have to sacrifice their now-closed Dulwich Hill cafe The Fold to make it work.

Advertisement

The Fold announced its closure via Instagram on July 10, almost two years since the family decided to pursue Kurumba. We wanted to keep The Fold as well but due to the staffing shortage, we couldnt make it happen, De Hoedt says. We would have had to split the family across the two venues, which would have compromised the quality of the restaurant. Kurumba in Surry Hills. Yusuke Oba At the end of the day, people came to The Fold to try dads curry and we didnt want to put someone else in charge of it.

Advertisement

The restaurant will remain a family affair, with De Hoedts mother Dilkushie managing the restaurant and brother Jason working together with wife Saaya Takahashi De Hoedt as pastry chef and sous pastry chef respectively. That means the celebratory cakes the De Hoedt family were well known for in Dulwich Hill can be pre-ordered at Kurumba, alongside desserts such as soft-serve faluda, their riff on a popular dessert made from vermicelli, jelly, rose syrup sabja seeds, milk and ice-cream). The ground floor of Kurumba is offering the full menu until the upstairs dining room is complete. Open lunch Fri-Sun; Tue-Sat dinner (kitchen closes at 9.30pm). 555 Crown Street, Surry Hills, 02 9331 5737, kurumbasyd.com.au

Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up
Almost half of the wards in a brand-new medical building fast-tracked to treat COVID-19 patients are lying empty as a hospital in Sydneys inner west struggles to find enough staff to run them.

Four wards in the $341 million Rusty Priest building at Concord Hospital were opened in September 2021 to cater for an influx of patients with COVID-19, five months ahead of the buildings official opening in February 2022.

Five wards lie empty in the newly built Rusty Priest building at Concord Hospital, which was fast-tracked to help the hospital deal with an influx of COVID-19 patients in 2021. Credit:

Those COVID-dedicated wards were shut down and converted to other uses in March this year, but one of the wards is empty, and another four are lying dormant two years after the building was first opened to patients.

A spokesman for the Sydney Local Health District, the body responsible for running Concord Hospital, said it was actively recruiting to find staff for two of the empty wards.
The state body tasked with investigating the unexpected deaths of Victorians has pleaded guilty to failing to protect staff from bullying, overwork and vicarious trauma after an in-house lawyer took her own life.

At the time, the Coroners Court of Victoria was on notice about the risk of suicide after a 2015 staff survey and later numerous internal emails revealed the workplace was toxic.

Coroners Court staff attended the hearing in the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday. Credit: Justin McManus

A senior staff member later told management they had grave concerns that a staff member could die by suicide as a result of working at the court. Seven months later, in 2018, senior in-house counsel Jessica Wilby was dead.

Court Services Victoria, which oversees the Coroners Court, admitted it failed to identify or assess the psychological risks to the health of employees between December 2015 and September 2018 despite repeatedly being warned the workplace was potentially fatal.
The state of Victoria must apologise and pay more than $430,000 in compensation after failing to protect five Jewish students from racial discrimination at a school in Melbournes south-east.

In a landmark case, five former students of Brighton Secondary College  Matt and Joel Kaplan, Liam Arnold-Levy, Guy Cohen and Zack Snelling  sued three staff from the government-run school and the state of Victoria for negligence and contraventions of the Racial Discrimination Act.

Federal Court Chief Justice Debra Mortimer on Thursday upheld the students allegations in part, finding the colleges principal, Richard Minack, failed to systemically address antisemitic bullying and harassment with established practices used for other vulnerable minorities. She said the principal also failed to take appropriate steps to discourage swastika graffiti.

The former students claimed Jewish students were treated differently to other vulnerable minority groups and had to endure unreasonably and extraordinarily high levels of swastika graffiti around the school grounds, which made them fearful for their safety at school.
One of Perths most well-known bars will change hands, with the new owners promising to keep the LGBTQ+ venue inclusive and diverse.

The Court Hotel on Beaufort Street has been purchased by Australian Venue Co, which owns more than 200 watering holes across the country, and 21 high-profile venues across the state including Market Grounds, The Claremont Hotel, The Aviary and The Globe.

Owner Bree Maddox is selling Perths famous The Court.

Its newest purchase, currently under a conditional acquisition agreement, has a long history in Perth  The Court was originally established in 1888 and has been the spiritual home of Perths LGBTQ+ community since the 1990s.

Current owner and director Bree Maddox will become an advisor to the business, and said the venue would remain as an all-inclusive venue once the acquisition was complete.
Population data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics on Thursday shows Australians are saying goodbye to NSW and Victoria and flocking to Western Australia and Queensland.

The agencys latest Net Interstate Migration analysis reveals that for the 12 months to the end of March 2023, a total of 35,857 people left NSW and Victoria, while the population for WA grew by 11,121 due to interstate population movements.

WA is the fastest growing state, with its population up 2.8 per cent to 2.8 million.

The March quarter 2023 alone saw an increase in WAs population of 26,005, which is a 0.9 per cent increase and the biggest quarterly change in number in ABS records back to 1981.
The Oppositions Indigenous Australians spokeswoman Jacinta Nampijinpa Price says colonisation has been good for Indigenous Australians, as she failed to support the Coalition policy of local and regional Voices in a fierce, provocative speech met with cheers by her frontbench colleagues.

In a National Press Club address that challenged widely held views of Indigenous and intergenerational disadvantage, Price claimed political leaders had been unwilling to apply common-sense approaches to Indigenous policy issues for fear of being branded racists.

Coalition spokeswoman for Indigenous Australians Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price at the National Press Club on Thursday. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has repeatedly stated his support for local and regional voice bodies instead of a national model supported by Labor.

But Price, who has also failed to back Duttons proposal for a second referendum on symbolic recognition, said the Coalition did not have a settled policy on other voices.
An inquiry into the governments rejection of Qatar Airways bid for more flights in Australia will expand to investigate how much the Qantas board knew about the airlines illegal decision to sack 1700 workers as both sides of politics team up against the national carrier.

Questions are being raised over the liability of the embattled Qantas board and its longstanding director Richard Goyder following Wednesdays High Court decision to uphold a judgment that the airline acted unlawfully as the Federal Court asks Qantas and the Transport Workers Union to consider mediation over the sum of damages.

The illegal sacking of Qantas ground staff will be explored in a parliamentary inquiry investigating the governments decision to reject Qatar Airways bid for more Australian flights. Credit: Mark Baker

Coalition transport spokeswoman Bridget McKenzie, who secured the numbers in the Senate last week to launch a parliamentary probe into Transport Minister Catherine Kings Qatar decision, said the inquirys remit had significantly widened from its original scope.

She said she absolutely wanted to find out more about the knowledge of the board and its chairman, Richard Goyder, about the sackings, while calling industry figures to speak on a range of issues surrounding competition and affordability in aviation.
Businessmen suspected of violating European Union (EU) sanctions against terrorist country Russia have been detained in Estonia. The businessmen and a commercial association continued economic activities with a Russian commercial association after the restrictions were imposed.

ADVERTISIMENT

The activity was conducted both directly from the Russian Federation and through the mediation of a company from a non-EU country. About it writes Delfi.

The prosecutor's office has initiated criminal proceedings against the businessmen. They may face up to 5 years in prison.

Recall, earlier Estonia introduced a ban on the entry of cars with Russian registration into its territory. In the afternoon on September 13, the first car with Russian license plates has already been turned around at the border of Russia and this country.

The car was driven by a driver with dual citizenship of Lithuania and Russia. The entry of Russians on the car was prohibited from 10 am.

"As the driver said, at the entrance to the checkpoint "Narva-1" Estonian customs officers informed him about the ban on the importation of this category of cars, after which he was directed back to the territory of Russia", - stated in the message of the customs of the Russian Federation.

ADVERTISIMENT

As OBOZREVATEL wrote earlier, the EU banned residents of the terrorist country Russia to import cars, smartphones, jewelry, laptops and other things. Russians are now not allowed to import even shampoos to the territory of the bloc.
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 Alan Joyce might have left the building but Qantas is still in a lot of trouble (Qantas faces huge payout, September 14). It is going to have to fork out for people whose tickets were cancelled, people who booked ghost flights and now a big compensation payout for the workers illegally sacked, not to mention the huge legal bills along the way. This will cost the airline a great deal of money. It has already affected the way all us feel about our national carrier. Surely, the responsibility must rest fairly and squarely with the former chief executive Joyce and the board, specifically its chairman Richard Goyder, who is supposed to provide oversight and good governance. The only fair thing to do is get them to sacrifice all their bonuses and payments over the last two years, and use that money as part of the fighting fund to pay out people who have been treated so shabbily. Richard Krochmalik, Wombeyan Caves Chairs missing. Credit: Matt Golding Boards should delay executive bonuses or final payouts for at least 12 months to ensure better accountability. This allows time for companies to assess whether the executive was responsible for any time bombs, such as illegal sackings. Longer-term performance issues affecting shareholders, staff or customers need to be part of the payout calculation. Brian Hastings, West Ryde I have some advice for new CEO Vanessa Hudson to improve Qantas public relations. Firstly, reinstate all the outsourced jobs. Secondly, if not Qatar, encourage more airlines to fly to Australia on a code-share basis. Thirdly, expand your call centre and make sure it is staffed by Australians. Fourthly, provide an alternative to automated check-ins. Fifth, reduce executive salaries. Sixth, aim for a modest profit rather than an excessive one. Finally, after a board shake-out, allocate 40 per cent of board seats to unions and make sure Sally McManus gets a seat. Simple. Neville Turbit, Russell Lea Just as Qantas chairman Richard Goyders position may be viewed as untenable now, one would think that Hudson is in the same boat (Illegal sackings have made board a flight risk, September 14). Hudson, with the whole board, was involved in sacking workers. It was not a clever decision to appoint Hudson rather than bring some fresh blood from outside when the board knew the impending problems. Mukul Desai, Hunters Hill Im sure the Qantas saga will be a future MBA case study on the folly of putting profit before customer care. I havent flown with Jetstar  and never will  after seeing my cancelled flight loading at Launceston Airport. All of us in a group travelling to Tasmania had booked well in advance at what were promoted as cheap fares, but one by one all got the dreaded your flight has been cancelled call. We realised that we were being bumped for people who booked later and paid higher fares. Malcolm McEwen, North Turramurra Now that Nick Dyrenfurth has highlighted some questions about the Qantas Chairmans Lounge, perhaps those offered a membership should consider the immortal words of Groucho Marx: I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member. (Politics of lounging around with Qantas, September 14). Brian Kidd, Mt Waverley (Vic)

Advertisement

Qantas - From national airline to national disgrace. Vince Hughes, Guildford Time for Yes campaign to win hearts and minds running out Niki Savvas analysis of the shenanigans used by the No campaign including twisting Professor Marcia Langtons calling out the tactics of fear and lies, was an excellent riposte in examining the No campaigns dirty strategies, an environment where lies, misrepresentation, the incitement of division and  yes  racism have splattered the landscape ( No campaigns squalid tactics will pollute politics long after the referendum day, September 14). The failure of the PM and the minister for Indigenous Australians to address the calls for more information on the Voice is inexplicable. Their obdurate response is a gift to the No campaign. Meanwhile, time to win undecided hearts and minds is running out. Malarndirri McCarthy, Assistant Minister for Indigenous Australians, an articulate and a clear communicator, is the best Labor spokesperson on the Voice. Its inexcusable she hasnt been fast-tracked to front questions on the Voice in Parliament and from media. She would effectively counter the lies and division created by the No campaign. Gerardine Grace, Leura Anthony Albanese has had his worst two weeks since he became prime minister. Credit: Dionne Gain Savva is right. Racism should be called out. What sort of a country are we when awful and vindictive attacks are launched when it is raised? Why was the Opposition relentlessly calling on the Government to censure Marcia Langton and distort her words in messages in Parliament and to No supporters? Its beyond disappointing to see how far the debate as moved from the recognition of First Nations people, and listening to advice from Indigenous Australians. Thats what we are voting for. Anne Skates, Bomaderry Savva rightly points out that the negative and squalid tactics of the No campaign will pollute Australian politics long after the vote. If the referendum is defeated because of a campaign of misinformation, fear, uncertainty and doubt, the result will be meaningless and will set Indigenous causes back decades. Dutton will be blamed for its defeat, and he will join the Liberal Partys other great wrecker, Tony Abbott, in embracing negativity as a means to attaining government. Our politicians, and especially the opposition, need to be better than this. Alan Marel, North Curl Curl Squalid sums up the prevarication, racism and outright lying of too many No campaigners including a hypocritical Dutton claiming he wants progress but bent on division. And, despite the Albanese governments positive achievements, obtuse ,and dumb capture the bloviating efforts of the PM and some ministers in a parliament marked by spiteful confrontation. As Savva asks, why not tell the truth? There will be no winners on October 15 if the rabble-rousers prevail. Ron Sinclair, Windradyne

Advertisement

The bad business sense of the mega-rich Funny that the best things that are always suggested by the rich and those in management to boost the economy is for the workers and the poorest of our citizens to lose pay or become unemployed (Why job losses could be good for the housing industry, September 14). Screams of power hungry unions and workers demanding too much return for their labour are the great go-to answers suggested by these people. Shifting employees off their balance sheets and onto the public welfare system but failing to realise that this will further deflate the economy is poor business sense. All of this being accompanied by high-level remuneration by the CEOs for their brilliant management of sacking workers. Supported by the Coalition governments over the last decade this has become almost a policy thread. The constant bleating about the poor productivity of Australian workers and the need to increase this productivity might need an inclusion of decreasing the multi-million dollar bonuses being received by the top end of town. Perhaps Tim Gurner needs to reflect on how he got his start in becoming rich. Robert Mulas, Corlette Cruise uncontrolled The article concerning the cruise ship Ocean Explorer running aground off Greenland mentions that some 600 cruise ships have visited Greenland in the last year (Cruise runs aground, September 14). Its ironic to think that all of those people travelling to see Greenlands spectacular snow and ice landscape are directly helping to melt it via pollution from those ships. Looking into the viability of hydrogen electric ships is perhaps the way to go. The technology already exists. Dennis OHara, Wanniassa (ACT) More work The concept of introducing education about consent and other important life skills is a great one, but where will it fit into an already crowded syllabus with overworked teachers (Porn and power imbalance in new sex education draft, September 14). The obvious solution is to abolish religious classes in schools where I heard numerous horrific stories of the abuse of the time by religious zealots with no oversight from several primary school teachers. Frank Gasparre, Kurrajong Heights

Advertisement

Flat note Concerts at Allianz Stadium are worth $7 million a night to the NSW economy: pull the other one (Too many players want entry to Allianz Stadium, September 14)! If they dont go to concerts, Sydneysiders discretionary spending will be spread elsewhere in Sydney, quite possibly of greater benefit to the state. The only sure winners from more stadium events will be the un-named millionaire puppeteers behind the Venues NSW facade. Nat Buckley, Drummoyne New low The Biden impeachment probe launched by Kevin McCarthy and his far-right Republican masters shows just how low some people will stoop to hold on to power (Republicans launch Biden probe, September 14). While American politicians, especially the Republicans, have been racing to the bottom of the barrel for some time, this weak attempt to get back at the Democrats is a new low. The idea of equating the possible financial misdeeds of the Biden clan with Donald Trumps many more serious crimes is ludicrous. The founding fathers impeachment provision has been truly corrupted into a political weapon of revenge instead of a means of protecting a democracy. Richard Keyes, Enfield Different lifestyles I can only presume Antoinette Lattouf is writing tongue in cheek when she claims Boomers have fat super funds and negatively geared properties (Why Millennials will be spared a midlife crisis, September 14). Of course, some Boomers have large super balanced plus rentals, but they are in the minority. Millennials have to remember they are the workers who have had compulsory superannuation all their working lives thanks to Paul Keating in 1992. Millennials, just be grateful the Boomers have supplied rentals giving you somewhere to live while you enjoy your twenty-first century lifestyles. You may imagine you are in a worse financial shape than every living generation but your lifestyles are very different to the lifestyles of Boomers when we were your age. Robyn Lewis, Raglan

Advertisement

Beautiful hotel It was with great sadness when I read Lee Tullochs first-hand account of the earthquake in Morocco, and that the hotel we also stayed in four years ago in the Atlas Mountains is no more (My hotel room rocked and shook violently. I hid in the wardrobe, smh.com.au, September 14). It was the most beautiful and romantic hotel in a stunning picturesque area with sweeping views below of the valleys and river. Our thoughts are with the staff and their families. Angie Miller, Bondi Junction Shameful situation A hundred and 22 years on from Australias federation and nominal independence, were still wittering on about when some irrelevant old geezer in a palace on the other side of the globe will appear on our coins (Letters, September 14). Meanwhile, we live yet another day, week, month, year, decade in which all Australians are banned from being head of state of their own country. How long before we wake up to the shame of this situation? Steve Cornelius, Brookvale Earnest students I had the privilege of seeing Sydney Theatre Companys excellent production of The Importance of Being Earnest and sitting near me was a group of students from the Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School. What a delightful group of fine young people they were: attentive and engaging and gave the play enthusiastic applause. They were also unselfconscious in their intelligent discussion with me about the play and Oscar Wilde. I am, and always have been, a strong supporter of public education, and I am dismayed when I read and hear disparaging comments about public schools. This school is evidence of excellence in public education and needs to be congratulated when its students uphold that standard. Patricia Farrar, Concord

Advertisement
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size The choice may appear simple: reduce fuel loads by hazard reduction burning or possibly face a catastrophic fire. But for many letter writers and online commenters, preoccupied with the adverse effects of extreme air pollution, their views of the situation were smokier - literally. Illustration: John Shakespeare Credit: Do self-centred Sydneysiders complain too much about a smoky city? Firefighters have been racing to reduce fuel close to Sydneys urban fringe, as authorities warn bushland could ignite and threaten homes this summer, explained science reporter Angus Dalton. Many were not happy with the ensuing smoke. DeadlyAsthmaFromPetsinStrata For asthmatics, Sydney has become a nightmare. Where is the cost benefit analysis of this endless illness? Every breath potential anaphylaxis? The loss of animal life. The putting of tons of carbon into the atmosphere is hastening climate change.

Farns The hazard reduction should have started six or seven weeks ago. Millsy There have been months of cool dry weather to do this. Surely, thats possible?

Advertisement

BushBashed Is it would be worth trialling other methods other than this technique of burning large areas all at once which can only be done in very specific weather circumstances. The Aboriginal patchwork burning system can be done for much more of the year, and is said to keep more carbon in the soil, sustain more variety of habitat, and, when done enough, stop big fires too. Loading danrucknmall Come on, days of acrid smoke and poor air quality has to have more effect than the RFS and media let on. How many people are in hospital or self-caring with respiratory issues due to the smoke created? Farmer Jack The choice is simple. Reduce fuel loads by hazard reduction burning or have a catastrophic fire. Which would you rather in the city area? Tim Egan, Mosman As a big city, Sydney has air pollution. Creating extra air pollution through hazard reduction burns makes no sense. Additionally, research shows bushfire smoke is poisonous, bad for unborn babies and those with respiratory illness; hospital admissions increase and deaths are hastened. Duncan Cameron, Lane Cove Here we go again. Smoky skies, extreme air pollution, extreme discomfort for millions, curtailing of activities for many people, and health risks for those who have to work outside. Dangerous health hazards for five million people versus potential saving of a few properties. Patricia Tod, Enmore When the haze first hung over Sydney, I told my husband letters of complaint would come flooding in. Well done, you self-centred Sydneysiders with short memories - and no thanks for the hard work of others - for not disappointing me.



Advertisement

Graham Russell, Clovelly A big thank you to all the staff currently engaged in hazard reduction burns in the Sydney area. We need you. Smoky Sydney this week Credit: Nine Are hazard reduction burns common sense? As communities around the state are urged to prepare for what may be the most dangerous bushfire season since the Black Summer of 2019-20, NSW seems as unprepared as before on hazard reduction burning, according to the Heralds editorial. MiG Id love to see the scientific evidence that supports hazard reduction burning targets. Dont most of our major fires spread along the canopy? While we do it because weve always done it, and it seems to be common sense, are we in fact doing the right thing? Jim Brockmire Much like flood plains, maybe the best strategy is to not build houses and businesses in high-risk fire areas. Guess the insurance companies will eventually see to this by not insuring these places.

Advertisement

ranger_jaxon Sadly, the concept of hazard reduction burning offers people a false safety blanket in a climate altered environment. Tony Manning, Breakfast Point After the Black Summer fires four years ago, there seemed to be a consensus that we needed Indigenous knowledge and input into cool burning reduction, which I assumed may reduce the amount of smoke produced. Has this method been introduced? Loading Jean McPherson, Cardiff Surely, a review of our progress with reducing the bushfire threat also demands urgent and extensive consultation with our First Nations peoples. We must listen to the Voice of those that truly know and understand country, and have successfully managed fire hazards for thousands of years. Geoff Ross, Bayview Hazard reduction burns do nothing to stop catastrophic bush fires. Such fires in 2019 started in wilderness areas, and were ignored until they grew into massive blazes. So-called hazard reduction burns produce the same toxic smoke that can kill people with respiratory conditions. They destroy habitat, kill native wildlife, and produce massive amounts of greenhouse gases, exacerbating climate change. The RFS and national parks should only burn areas where there is an extreme bushfire risk, not suburban parklands. Judith Rostron, Killarney Heights All over the world climate extremes are occurring with increasing frequency. Having experienced 47 degrees celsius once in Australia, Im not looking forward to that and even higher in the future. Instead of looking forward to the warmer weather of summer, now there is only the prospect of high temperatures and out-of-control bushfires. You can join the conversation at smh.com.au in the comments sections of each article and in letters to the editor in print and online. See you next Friday. Yours. Sincerely, Pat Stringa, letters editor

Advertisement
The luxury cruise ship MV Ocean Explorer was successfully pulled free by a fisheries research vessel, three days after running aground in Greenland with 206 people on board, authorities and the ships owner said.

The ship was freed on Thursday (local time) by a fisheries research vessel at high tide, said the cruise ships owner, Copenhagen-based SunStone Ships, and the Joint Arctic Command, which coordinated the operation.

Passengers Steven Fraser and Gina Hill, a retired couple from Newport in Sydney, said the ship was freed by a fishing vessel called Tarajoq.

There have not been any injuries to anybody onboard, no pollution of the environment and no breach of the hull, SunStone Ships said in a statement.

The research vessel that pulled the cruise ship belongs to the Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, a government agency, it said.
Floodwaters gushed down Wadi Derna, a valley that cuts through the city, crashing through buildings and washing people out to sea. A UN official said on Thursday that most casualties could have been avoided. Search teams are combing streets, wrecked buildings, and even the sea to look for bodies in Derna, where the collapse of two dams unleashed a massive flash flood that killed thousands of people. Credit: AP If there would have been a normal operating meteorological service, they could have issued the warnings, World Meteorological Organisation head Petteri Taalas told reporters in Geneva. The emergency management authorities would have been able to carry out the evacuation.

The WMO said earlier this week that the National Meteorological Centre had issued warnings 72 hours before the flooding, notifying all governmental authorities by email and through media. Officials in eastern Libya warned the public about the coming storm and on Saturday had ordered residents to evacuate areas along the coast, fearing a surge from the sea. But there was no warning about the dams collapsing. Flooding aftermath is seen in Derna, Libya. Credit: AP How does conflict in Libya affect the disaster? The startling devastation reflected the storms intensity, but also Libyas vulnerability. Oil-rich Libya has been divided between rival governments for most of the past decade  one in the east, the other in the capital, Tripoli  and one result has been widespread neglect of infrastructure.

The two dams that collapsed outside Derna were built in the 1970s. A report by a state-run audit agency in 2021 said the dams had not been maintained despite the allocation of more than 2 million euros for that purpose in 2012 and 2013. Loading Libyas Tripoli-based Prime Minister Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah acknowledged the maintenance issues in a Cabinet meeting Thursday and called on the Public Prosecutor to open an urgent investigation into the dams collapse. The disaster brought a rare moment of unity, as government agencies across the country rushed to help the affected areas. While the Tobruk-based government of east Libya is leading relief efforts, the Tripoli-based western government allocated the equivalent of $412 million for reconstruction in Derna and other eastern towns, and an armed group in Tripoli sent a convoy with humanitarian aid.

Whats happening today? Derna has begun burying its dead, mostly in mass graves, said eastern Libyas health minister, Othman Abduljaleel earlier on Thursday. Loading More than 3000 bodies were buried by Thursday morning, the minister said, while another 2000 were still being processed, He said most of the dead were buried in mass graves outside Derna, while others were transferred to nearby towns and cities. Abduljaleel said rescue teams were still searching wrecked buildings in the city centre, and divers were combing the sea off Derna.

Untold numbers could be buried under drifts of mud and debris, including overturned cars and chunks of concrete, that rise up to four meters high. Rescuers have struggled to bring in heavy equipment as the floods washed out or blocked roads leading to the area. Libyas eastern based parliament, The House of Representatives, approved Thursday an emergency budget of 10 billion Libyan dinars  roughly $US2 billion ($3.1 billion)  to address the flooding and help those affected. How many people have been killed? As of Thursday, the Libyan Red Crescent said that 11,300 people have been killed, and a further 10,100 are reported missing. However, local officials suggested that the death toll could be much higher than announced.

In comments to the Saudi-owned Al Arabia television station on Thursday, Derna Mayor Abdel-Moneim al-Ghaithi said the tally could climb to 20,000 given the number of neighbourhoods that were washed out. The storm also killed around 170 people in other parts of eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Um Razaz and Marj, the health minister said. The dead in eastern Libya included at least 84 Egyptians, who were transferred to their home country on Wednesday. More than 70 came from one village in the southern province of Beni Suef. Libyan media also said dozens of Sudanese migrants were killed in the disaster. Is help reaching survivors? The floods have also displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, according to the UNs International Organisation for Migration, and several thousand others were forced to leave their homes in other eastern towns, it said.

The floods damaged or destroyed many access roads to Derna, hampering the arrival of international rescue teams and humanitarian assistance. Local authorities were able to clear some routes, and over the past 48 hours humanitarian convoys have been able to enter the city. The UN humanitarian office issued an emergency appeal for $US71.4 million to respond to urgent needs of 250,000 Libyans most affected. The humanitarian office, known as OCHA, estimated that approximately 884,000 people in five provinces live in areas directly affected by the rain and flooding. The International Committee of the Red Cross said Thursday it has provided 6000 body bags to local authorities, as well as medical, food and other supplies distributed to hard-hit communities. International aid started to arrive earlier this week in Benghazi, 250 kilometres west of Derna. Several countries have sent aid and rescue teams, including neighbouring Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia. Italy dispatched a naval vessel on Thursday carrying humanitarian aid and two navy helicopters to be used for search and rescue operations. President Joe Biden said the United States would send money to relief organisations and coordinate with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support.
Washington: US President Joe Bidens son has been charged over alleged multiple gun crimes and faces the prospect of jail if he convicted, in the latest pre-election saga to engulf the First Family.

With 14 months until the presidential election, the White House faces a fresh crisis after a grand jury indicted Hunter Biden with illegally owning a gun and lying about his drug use when he bought it in 2018.

President Joe Biden, and his son Hunter Biden. Credit: AP

The move comes weeks after a sweetheart plea deal  meant to keep Hunter from being prosecuted  collapsed at the eleventh hour after the presiding judge raised concerns about its scope.

Now, in a significant setback, the 53-year-old faces a potential trial over three gun charges while his father campaigns for re-election next year.
PHILIPSBURG:--- In June of 2023, State Secretary Van Huffelen stated that the Governments of Curacao and St. Maarten would have to find solutions to salvage Ennia. Shortly thereafter, Pro Soualiga kindly requested the State Secretary to provide the Government of St. Maarten with a sound legal basis whereby a government is fiscally responsible for the financial irregularities of an insurance company. How is the Dutch State currently legally offside on three varying fronts in relation to the Ennia ordeal? Firstly, the Dutch State declared to the International Court of Justice in February of 2018 that the decisions on the political status and the economic, social and cultural development are made by the people itself, or its legitimate representatives, not by others. Moreover, such decisions shall be made in full freedom, without any outside pressure or interference."

Secondly, their own watchdog, the CfT roundly criticized the proposed loans. The State Secretarys proposal of a 600 million euro loan to rescue Ennia violates its own imposed Financial Supervision Law (RFT), the Cft pointed out. According to the Financial Supervision Law, the rules in the RFT are designed to protect and maintain the starting equity of the countries as realized budget shortages might diminish that equity, and to protect the countries from lending too much on the capital market and build up unsustainable debts like the former Netherlands Antilles did. In other words, the proposal of a 600 million euro loan to the Governments of Curacao and St. Maarten by the State Secretary is a form of predatory lending. Predatory lending describes lending practices that are disadvantageous to borrowers and often involve deception by taking unfair advantage of a borrower's lack of understanding about loan terms. Lastly, the Court of Appeal rendered a verdict in the ENNIA case whereby its former owner was found liable for over $100 million dollars. This essentially means that the Dutch State can now salvage ENNIA themselves and use the courts ruling to recover the funds unlawfully extracted from Ennia. Bear in mind that in April of 2023, the Dutch State signed mutual agreements with Curacao and St. Maarten with the intended purpose of making the islands more resilient. The question therefore is: how can saddling the islands with unsustainable debt contribute to their financial resilience?
PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday, September 1st, 2023, board members of the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset signed its fifth memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the breakfast program at the Marie Genevieve de Weever School in an effort to tackle ongoing concern of child hunger within the schools.

The breakfast program caters to providing a daily breakfast for over 50+ students in need. The official memorandum of understanding indicates that the club will provide $200 worth of breakfast items each month for the school year 2023-2024.

Proper nutrition among our youth is essential to ensure healthy growth, proper function proper organ formation and function, a strong immune system, and neurological and cognitive development. Child malnutrition is known to have an adverse effect on the cognitive function of children and despite global efforts to combat child hunger, it remains rampant in many undeveloped and developing countries. Under nutrition often leaves children vulnerable to numerous illnesses and diseases.

Secretary/ President Elect Franklyn Salomons stated, Being healthy and well fed is an integral part of a childs development. We, as the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset are happy to be able to contribute to ensuring the students at this school can meet their nutritional needs. With a balanced nutritional need, students will be able to focus better and be successful in their educational pursuits and development.

The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset meets every second and fourth Monday of the month at Carl N Sons Unique Inn and Conference Facilities in Colebay at 7:30 PM. The club can be contacted via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via the official Facebook page at facebook.com/rotarysxmsunset.
USCM Engages Capital Analytica for Investor Relations Services

US Critical Metals Corp. (CSE: USCM) (OTCQB: USCMF) (FSE: 0IU0) (aUSCMa or the aCompanya  https://www.commodity-tv.com/ondemand/companies/profil/us-critical-metals-corp/ ) is pleased to announce that it has engaged Triomphe Holdings Ltd. (dba Capital Analytica) aCapital Analyticaa to provide a multi-faceted Promotional Enhancement Service. Capital Analytica is a Nanaimo, BC based company.

Pursuant to the agreement, Capital Analytica has agreed to provide investor relations and communications services to the company in exchange for an aggregate amount of $60,000. The services will include continuing social media consultation regarding engagement and enhancement, social sentiment reporting, social engagement reporting, discussion forum monitoring and reporting, corporate video dissemination, and other related investor relations services. The term of the Capital Analytica agreement is for a period of three months beginning September 13, 2023.

Capital Analytica and USCM are not related parties and operate at arma?s length. Neither Capital Analytica or its principals have any interest in the Companya?s securities, directly or indirectly, or any right or intent to acquire suchA anA interest.

For further information please contact:

Jeff French

President

Capital Analytica

Telephone: +1A (778) 882-4551

E-mail: jeff@capitalanalytica.com

Darren Collins

Chief Executive Officer & Director

US Critical Metals Corp.

Telephone: +1 (786) 633-1756

Email: dcollins@uscmcorp.com

In Europe:

Swiss Resource Capital AG

Jochen Staiger

info@resource-capital.ch

www.resource-capital.ch

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor the Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains certain information that may be deemed aforward-looking informationa with respect to USCM within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause USCMa?s actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information includes statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words aexpectsa, aplansa, aanticipatesa, abelievesa, aintendsa, aestimatesa, aprojectsa, apotentiala and similar expressions, or that events or conditions awilla, awoulda, amaya, acoulda or ashoulda occur. Forward-looking information in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements relating to: the services anticipated to be provided under the agreement and compensation to be provided for such services.

Although USCM believes the forward-looking information contained in this news release is reasonable based on information available on the date hereof, by its nature, forward-looking information involves assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information.

Examples of such assumptions, risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, assumptions, risks and uncertainties associated with general economic conditions; the Covid-19 pandemic; adverse industry events; the receipt of required regulatory approvals and the timing of such approvals; that USCM maintains good relationships with the communities in which it operates or proposes to operate; future legislative and regulatory developments in the mining sector; USCMa?s ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favorable terms; mining industry and markets in Canada and generally; the ability of USCM to implement its business strategies; competition; the risk that any of the assumptions prove not to be valid or reliable, which could result in delays, or cessation in planned work; risks associated with the interpretation of data, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the possibility that results will not be consistent with USCMa?s expectations; as well as other assumptions, risks and uncertainties applicable to mineral exploration and development activities and to USCM, including as set forth in the USCMa?s public disclosure documents filed on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com.A

The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of USCM as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While USCM may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws.

A
First Tin Plc publishes Mineral Resource Estimate Upgrade at Taronga Tin Project

First Tin PLC (aFirst Tina or athe companya  https://www.commodity-tv.com/ondemand/companies/profil/first-tin-ltd/ ), a tin development company with advanced, low capex projects in Germany and Australia, is pleased to announce an updated Mineral Resource Estimate (aMREa) for its 100% owned Taronga Tin Project in Australia, completed by independent geological consultants H&S Consultants Pty Ltd (aH&SCa). The MRE has been prepared in accordance with the 2012 JORC Code & Guidelines.

The updated MRE is reported using a 0.05% tin (aSna) cut-off to a maximum depth of 300m below surface (650mRL):

This is a substantial 240% increase in size on the previous MRE announced by Aus Tin Mining Ltd in 2014 which was calculated using a 0.10% Sn cut-off.A The lower cut-off for the updated Mineral Resource is based on revised economic considerations including higher 3-year trailing tin prices, lower AUD:USD exchange rates and preliminary estimates of mining, processing and G&A costs.

A direct comparison with the 2014 MRE using a 0.10% Sn cut-off is:

The comparison represents a 40% increase in total contained tin metal based on the same cut-off. The difference is primarily due to:

Exploration drilling by First Tin successfully extending the Mineral Resource to the southwest of the existing estimate

A new geological interpretation

A reconfigured grade interpolation technique

A Measured Resource category has been included for the first time. This is based on the successful hole twinning drill programme conducted by First Tin which validated the Newmont drilling data alongside a more in-depth study of the Newmont QAQC data which confirmed the reliability of the historic drilling data.

A grade-tonnage table is included as Table 1 with a graphical representation shown as Figure 1.

First Tin CEO Thomas Buenger said: aThe 2023 MRE represents the culmination of a highly successful drill campaign at Taronga, which opened up new areas of mineralisation and validated previous data. We are very pleased with the large increase in contained tin and the addition of a Measured Resource category, which provides further confidence in the MRE. The grade-tonnage curve shows that the Mineral Resource Estimate is robust and that significant tonnages of higher-grade material exist that will in turn reduce risk due to changing tin prices.a

The project is owned by First Tina?s 100% owned Australian subsidiary, Taronga Mines Pty Ltd (aTMPLa).

Enquiries:

First TinA Via SEC Newgate below

Thomas Buenger  Chief Executive Officer

Arlington Group Asset Management Limited (Financial Advisor and Joint Broker)

Simon CattA 020 7389 5016

WH Ireland Limited (Joint Broker)

Harry AnsellA 020 7220 1670

SEC Newgate (Financial Communications)

Elisabeth Cowell / Molly GrettonA FirstTin@secnewgate.co.uk

In Europe:

Swiss Resource Capital AG

Jochen Staiger

info@resource-capital.ch

www.resource-capital.ch

Notes to Editors

First Tin is an ethical, reliable, and sustainable tin production company led by a team of renowned tin specialists. The Company is focused on becoming a tin supplier in conflict-free, low political risk jurisdictions through the rapid development of high value, low capex tin assets in Germany and Australia.

Tin is a critical metal, vital in any plan to decarbonise and electrify the world, yet Europe has very little supply. Rising demand, together with shortages, is expected to lead tin to experience sustained deficit markets for the foreseeable future. Its assets have been de-risked significantly, with extensive work undertaken to date.

First Tin\-s goal is to use best-in-class environmental standards to bring two tin mines into production in three years, providing provenance of supply to support the current global clean energy and technological revolutions.
Victoria Gold: 3.5 g/t Au over 27.5m at Raven Deposit, Dublin Gulch Gold Camp, Yukon

Victoria Gold Corp. (TSX-VGCX) (aVictoriaa or the aCompanya)  https://www.commodity-tv.com/ondemand/companies/profil/victoria-gold-corp/  is pleased to announce the first analytical results from the 2023 exploration campaign at the Raven deposit. Raven was the primary focus of this seasona?s exploration efforts with over 13,200 meters (ama) of diamond drilling completed. The drilling campaign consisted of systematic fence drilling to the east of the current deposit bounds coupled with exploratory drillholes around the promising high-grade mineralization identified last season in drillhole NG22-155C (20.24 g/t Au over 14.5m; see Company News Release dated January 19, 2023). Victoria anticipates releasing an updated Raven Mineral Resource Estimate after the completion of the 2023 field season including receipt and analysis of all results.

Assays for 16 of the 39 drillholes collared in 2023 have been received a highlighted results are presented below:A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A

80 g/t Au over 6.0m from 235.5m in NG23-167C

03 g/t Au over 11.3m from 256.3m in NG23-168C

20 g/t Au over 1.1m from 292.3m in NG23-170C

45 g/t Au over 27.5m from 239.0m in NG23-172C

47 g/t Au over 18.5m from 170.5m in NG23-179C

aA busy 2023 exploration program served to validate and expand the mineralized footprint of Raven while increasing overall confidence in the Raven deposit,a stated John McConnell, President and CEO of Victoria. aWith each successive season, Raven has grown in size and 2023 should prove no different as we focused exploration towards growth of the deposit along strike  particularly to the east where 2023 results underscore the development of a high-grade trend.aA

During the 2023 field season, 13,220m of diamond drilling was completed at the Raven deposit (39 holes), along with 1,282m of surface trenches (16 trenches), detailed structural/geological mapping and prospecting. Drilling in 2022 and 2023 tested an additional 400m of strike length from the 2022 Resource eastern limits. This drilling confirmed Raven mineralization over a strike length of 1.7 kilometers (akma). This first set of analytical results from Victoriaa?s 2023 exploration program represents further confirmation of the Raven mineralization and Resource model, with long intervals of gold mineralization (such as 144.0m of 0.81 g/t Au and 78.4m of 1.40 g/t Au) hosted within granodiorite lithologies punctuated by intervals of high grade massive sulphide veins (such as 3.5m of 13.68 g/t Au and 0.5m of 135.30 g/t Au).

The results of NG23-172C and NG23-179C, together with NG22-155C, drilled during the 2022 drill campaign, demonstrate an emerging high-grade trend within the rapidly developing Raven deposit.

In conjunction with focused drilling of the Raven deposit, a suite of exploration targets across the Dublin Gulch Gold Camp, including Lynx, were advanced through surface trenches, soil geochemical surveys, geological mapping and prospecting during the 2023 program.A

Highlighted analytical results from the 16 Raven drillholes received to date are presented below.

A set of drill sections and plan map to accompany these Raven drillholes, along with drill collar and survey data, will be made available on the company website (www.vgcx.com).

Analytical method

All exploration drill core from the Dublin Gulch 2023 program was analyzed at MSALabs, of Terrace, B.C., utilizing the ICP_230 34-element analytical package with FAS-121 50-gram fire assay with an atomic absorption finish for gold on all samples. All core samples were split at Victoria\-s exploration facilities and shipped to the MSALabs mobile preparation facility near Mayo, YT. Samples were sorted and crushed to appropriate particle size (coarse crush) and representatively split to a smaller size (250 grams) for the MSALabs analytical facility in Langley, B.C. A comprehensive system of standards, blanks and field duplicates was implemented for the 2023 exploration campaign and is monitored as chemical assay data becomes available.

Qualified Person

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Paul D. Gray, P.Geo., as the aQualified Persona as defined in National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About Raven

Raven represents a potentially high-grade, on-surface gold deposit that lies in the extreme southeast contact of the Nugget Intrusive Stock within the surrounding Earn Group metasedimentary package. This large, approximately 3 kilometer by 2 kilometer, medium to coarse grained granodiorite stock of Cretaceous age represents the second largest intrusive body on the Dublin Gulch property (second only to the Dublin Gulch Stock that hosts the Eagle Gold Mine). The Nugget Stock is highly prospective to host Eagle-style sheeted vein mineralization, and the vast majority of the greater than 5 square kilometer stock remains untested.

The Raven occurrence is hosted in a shear zone corridor on the southeast portion of the Nugget Stock, in close association with the intrusion-metasediment contact on the eastern side of the Lynx Creek valley. The area is underlain by the Devonian to Mississippian age Earn Group and the Early Carboniferous age Keno Hill Quartzite which have been deformed by greenschist facies metamorphism, folding, and thrusting (Gordey and Makepeace, 2003).

Exploration drilling, trenching, and soil geochemical sampling at the Raven deposit in the 2018 through 2023 field seasons have repeatedly returned high-grade gold intersections accompanied by prolific visible gold occurrences along a major and consistently mineralized corridor, which has grown sequentially since its discovery in 2018. The Raven discovery was based largely from initial surface trenches constructed and sampled in the 2018 field season that exposed scorodite, bismuth, and siderite related sulphide veins under less than one meter of overburden/cover.

The October 26, 2022 technical report, titled aTechnical Report on the Raven Mineral Deposit, Mayo Mining District Yukon Territory, Canadaa, with an effective date of September 15, 2022, can be found on the Companya?s website atA www.vgcx.comA and on SEDAR atA www.sedar.com.

The MRE comprises a total Inferred Mineral Resource ofA 1,070,239A ?ounces of gold for the near-surface Raven Deposit.

About the Dublin Gulch Property

Victoria Gold\-s 100%-owned Dublin Gulch gold property (the aPropertya) is situated in central Yukon Territory, Canada, approximately 375 kilometers north of the capital city of Whitehorse, and approximately 85 kilometers from the town of Mayo. The Property is accessible by road year round, and is located within Yukon Energy\-s electrical grid.

The Property covers an area of approximately 555 square kilometers, and is the site of the Company\-s Eagle and Olive Gold deposits. The Company issued a National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report for the Eagle Gold Mine dated April 10, 2023 (the a2023 Eagle Technical Reporta). As at December 31, 2022, the Eagle and Olive deposits include Proven and Probable Reserves of 2.6 million ounces of gold from 124 million tonnes of ore with a grade of 0.65 grams of gold per tonne. As at December 31, 2022, the Mineral Resource for the Eagle and Olive deposits has been estimated to host 245 million tonnes averaging 0.59 grams of gold per tonne, containing 4.7 million ounces of gold in the \Measured and Indicated\ category, inclusive of Proven and Probable Reserves, and a further 35 million tonnes averaging 0.62 grams of gold per tonne, containing 0.7 million ounces of gold in the \Inferred\ category.

Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes certain statements that may be deemed \forward-looking statements\. Except for statements of historical fact relating to Victoria, information contained herein constitutes forward-looking information, including any information related to Victoria\-s strategy, plans or future financial or operating performance. Forward-looking information is characterized by words such as aplana, aexpecta, abudgeta, atargeta, aprojecta, aintenda, abelievea, aanticipatea, aestimatea and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions amaya, awilla, acoulda or ashoulda occur, and includes any guidance and forecasts set out herein (including, but not limited to, production and operational guidance of the Corporation). In order to give such forward-looking information, the Corporation has made certain assumptions about its business, operations, the economy and the mineral exploration industry in general. In this respect, the Corporation has assumed that production levels will remain consistent with managementa?s expectations, contracted parties provide goods and services on agreed timeframes, equipment works as anticipated, required regulatory approvals are received, no unusual geological or technical problems occur, no material adverse change in the price of gold occurs and no significant events occur outside of the Corporation\-s normal course of business. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made, and are inherently subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other known and unknown factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those described in, or implied by, the forward-looking information. These factors include the impact of general business and economic conditions, global liquidity and credit availability on the timing of cash flows and the values of assets and liabilities based on projected future conditions, anticipated metal production, fluctuating metal prices, currency exchange rates, estimated ore grades, possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates, changes in accounting policies, changes in Victoria\-s corporate resources, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, changes in development and production time frames, the possibility of cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses, uncertainty of mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates, higher prices for fuel, steel, power, labour and other consumables contributing to higher costs and general risks of the mining industry, failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated, final pricing for metal sales, unanticipated results of future studies, seasonality and unanticipated weather changes, costs and timing of the development of new deposits, success of exploration activities, requirements for additional capital, permitting time lines, government regulation of mining operations, environmental risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses, title disputes or claims, limitations on insurance coverage and timing and possible outcomes of pending litigation and labour disputes, risks related to remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure, fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations. Although Victoria has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in, or implied by, the forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained herein is presented for the purpose of assisting investors in understanding Victoria\-s expected financial and operational performance and Victoria\-s plans and objectives and may not be appropriate for other purposes. All forward-looking information contained herein is given as of the date hereof, as the case may be, and is based upon the opinions and estimates of management and information available to management of the Corporation as at the date hereof. The Corporation undertakes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking information contained herein and the documents incorporated by reference herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.

For Further Information Contact:

John McConnell

President & CEO

Victoria Gold Corp

Tel: 604-696-6605

ceo@vgcx.com

In Europe:

Swiss Resource Capital AG

Jochen Staiger & Marc Ollinger

info@resource-capital.ch

www.resource-capital.ch
Resort season around the world ended with the beginning of fall, so travel agencies were able to summarize where the citizens of this or that country went most often. Thus, it turned out that the most popular destination for Russians is "friendly" Belarus.

ADVERTISIMENT

That's where exiles from the civilized world, who are no longer welcome in any other country, often go. This is reported by the Belarusian edition of BelTA with reference to the chairman of the Belarusian Union of Travel Industry, Filipp Gulia.

Belarusians rejoiced at the new tourists and "thanked" the world sanctions for it. In addition, they boasted of "a major program of flights with Russian regions.

There are flights to Belarus from such cities as Ufa, Perm, Pskov, Nizhny Novgorod, etc. They are offered excursions and an "unforgettable" weekend in local sanatoriums.

In addition, Russians are attracted by discounts for pensioners. "Weekly about 50 pensioners from Ufa fly to Minsk, who are compensated for air travel," boasted in Belarus, from where thousands of occupiers entered Ukraine unhindered on February 24, 2022.

ADVERTISIMENT

Such a tourist flow is preceded not only by "actions" and sanctions, but also by the absence of a language barrier, low prices and access to the "Mir" card system, which was "sold" to Russians after their isolation from the civilized world.

Since there are no other tourists in Belarus, as it has also become a sub-sanctioned country, the tourism industry is aimed at pleasing guests from the Russian Federation.

Earlier OBOZREVATEL wrote that vacationers near the Black Sea coast in Sochi said that some of their fellow citizens behave inadequately. They let children defecate in the sea, from which other kids then drink water.

ADVERTISIMENT

Only verified information from us in Telegram-channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Tata, the Indian conglomerate that owns the Port Talbot steelworks in south Wales, has been in talks with the Government for months over state aid worth hundreds of millions of pounds to help switch the plants two coal-fired blast furnaces to electric arc versions that can run on zero-carbon electricity.
Private sector workers are shouting from the rooftops to urge politicians to do more to tackle the issue, Paul Polman, former chief executive of Unilever and adviser to the UK Government on the Cop26 climate summit, said.
Westminster is still reeling from the arrest of the 28-year-old Conservative parliamentary researcher accused of spying for China. Not only was he the director of the China Research Group, a powerful policy group that has led Tory MPs calling for a tougher approach towards Beijing, but he was employed as a researcher by the head of the foreign affairs committee, the Conservative MP Alicia Kearns. It is easy to point fingers but that would be a mistake. Because if something like this happens it is the system that has failed  and not the targeted members of parliament. What should be shocking is that this was not out of the blue. MI6 has been warning for years that Chinese spying on a gigantic scale was now one of the leading threats to Britain. And despite this  not to mention our deep geopolitical confrontation with Russia  none of the most basic steps were taken to secure parliament against spies and foreign influence. This is a whole of government failure to prioritise.
It pays to shop around at this Stepney cinema; though big ticket releases are often on the pricier side, there are serious savings to be had if youre happy to get your film fixes at less popular times. A weeknight screening of Pedro Almodovars new short film A Strange Way of Life is a fiver, just a couple of days after the films release  and theres plenty on offer at that price-point. A Monday night showing of Martin Scorseses Killers of the Flower Moon is 7.50, meanwhile; excellent value considering you could fit two shorter-length feature films into that epic runtime.
Now, four years later, all the high drama and high fashion is coming to Englands capital. As with the book, and the hit film which starred Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci, the story will again focus on graduate Andy Sachs, who falls head first into the fashion industry when she is hired as the junior assistant to Runway editor-in-chief, Miranda Priestly. Its a demanding but much coveted role  and everybody wants to be her  but her personal relationships start to suffer.
Terms & Conditions: 18+. UK residents only. Offer open to Evening Standard readers and up to three guests. Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, promotion or existing booking. Discount is for holiday departures on or before 31 December 2024, subject to availability, and booked by 31 December 2023. Offer is non-transferable, there is no cash alternative and excludes The Great Britain XVI. Offer holds no monetary value. The Railway Touring Companys Standard Conditions of Booking and Travel apply  see website for details. Code ESHD must be quoted at time of booking. For further information, please write to Customer Care, Evening Standard Limited, Alphabeta, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London, EC2A 1AH. Promoter: The Railway Touring Company
Thanks to the development of industry and improved agriculture, the world's population has grown from 1.6 billion in 1900 to about 8 billion today. Despite this rapid growth in the number of people, estimates suggest that the number of people currently living on planet Earth has not even come close to the number who have already died.

ADVERTISIMENT

IFLScience found out how many people have lived on Earth throughout history. Data from 1800 show that the population has grown significantly since then.

According to scientists, the first modern humans left Africa 60,000 years ago, and this is a significant period when there was no reliable data and indicators about the population.

Wendy Baldwin from the Population Reference Bureau explained that the average life expectancy in France from 800 BC to about 100 AD is estimated at only 10 or 12 years. Therefore, the fertility rate would have been approximately 80 children per 1000 people.

For comparison, the high fertility rate today is 35 to 45 newborns per 1000 people. Such statistics are observed only in some countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

Scientists used population data from different historical periods. This method makes it possible to estimate the number of newborns and deaths.

ADVERTISIMENT

According to all the studies, about 117 billion people have been born since 190,000 BC, which is significantly higher than the 8 billion population that exists today.

Scientists also suggest that the conclusion may be inaccurate. They can underestimate the birth rate at one time or another.

Earlier OBOZREVATEL published a study on how to determine the sex of a person by the smell of their hands.

Subscribe to OBOZREVATEL on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest news.


Designed along the same lines as other Martello towers off the British and Irish coastlines, Grain Tower is Grade II listed, with an empty series of brick-built rooms inside. The building is vacant, and its recent owners have not logged planning applications with Medway council or undertaken any major building work. There are no fixtures or fittings inside, explains Lamb, who describes Grain Tower as a blank canvas with heaps of history and phenomenal sea views, not to mention its coveted No. 1 the Thames address.
Anyone who loved Nina Stibbes account of nannying in London, Love, Nina (2013) has longed for her to write another memoir and finally its here. This time she recounts her return to London, 40 years after her first book was set. Stibbes style is a bit Marmite and perhaps more so in this outing, given that its not accompanied by the wide-eyed wonder of youth. We love it, but there will be those who remain immune to her slightly off-kilter take on the world. Though there is plenty of pain here to offset the eccentricity  from the breakdown of her marriage which led to her returning to London in the first place, to her menopausal incontinence, as well as the alcoholism, prolapses and failed relationships of her friends. And Nick Hornby smoking a custard-flavoured vape to lighten the mood.
We continue to work hard to listen to what our communities and partners have told us about this incident and use of search powers more generally. We wish these types of searches were not necessary but sadly we know there are children in London being exploited to carry drugs and weapons for others as well as involved in criminality.
Asked if that caused him any concern, Mr Nicolson replied: It causes me a lot of concern. He ought to have been told so that when he gives his statement he knows and understands exactly why he is giving a statement.
Surrey Police had also been working to secure the safe return of Saras five siblings from Pakistan after a court ruled the children would be temporarily moved to a government childcare facility. All five children travelled with the three adults to Pakistan on August 9.
These delays mean that ambulance crews are not always able to respond to 999 calls from critically ill patients. In addition to the direct impact on patients, this is incredibly demoralising, even traumatising, for many staff involved. This is especially concerning as we head into winter, the most challenging time of year for the NHS.
Dr Hilton stood by his comments in an interview with the newspaper, saying: If these girls want to be a surgeon, they are going to have to deal with much more difficult things than another surgeon saying something inappropriate.
And then when we deliver on that research, regrettably were seen as a country where the products and the outputs of those research are not always put into place and we dont always approve the novel therapies that we are part of establishing as being the new standards of care, which may apply around the world but dont necessarily apply here in this country.
The aircraft landed normally at 7.58pm in London Heathrow. Customers have been taken care of at the airport and will be re-routed to Paris as soon as possible.
A distant exoplanet known as K2-18 b is likely to have open oceans in liquid form that could be a haven for marine life. This was confirmed by observations by an international team of astronomers thanks to NASA's James Webb Telescope (JWST).

ADVERTISIMENT

This is stated in a paper to be published in the scientific journal The Astrophysical Journal Letters. A preview of the material was published on the portal of the European Space Agency (ESA), dedicated to the JWST telescope.

Exoplanet K2-18 b is 8.6 times more massive than Earth. Previous observations have revealed the presence of carbon-containing molecules, particularly methane and carbon dioxide, in its atmosphere. Other studies have also suggested that this exoplanet is of the Hycean type, meaning it has a hydrogen-rich atmosphere and a surface covered by a water ocean.

The first studies of K2-18 b were conducted back with the Gabble Space Telescope and prompted further research that changed the understanding of this system.

K2-18 b orbits in a suitable zone for life in the cold dwarf star K2-18. This system is located in the constellation of Leo at a distance of 120 light-years from Earth.

ADVERTISIMENT

As scientists point out, exoplanets like K2-18 b, which are between the size of Earth and Neptune, are unlike anything in our solar system. This means that they are poorly understood, and the nature of their atmospheres is a subject of active debate among astronomers.

That K2-18 b could be a Hycean-type exoplanet is intriguing to astronomers, as scientists consider these particular worlds to be promising environments for searching for evidence of life on exoplanets.

"Our results emphasize the importance of considering a variety of suitable environments when searching for life anywhere," explained Nikku Madhusudhan, an astronomer at the University of Cambridge and lead author of the paper, in an explanation of the new observations.

Traditionally, he said, the search for life on exoplanets has focused on smaller, rocky planets, but large Hycean planets are "much more favorable for atmospheric observations."

ADVERTISIMENT

The large amounts of methane and carbon dioxide and lack of ammonia support the hypothesis that an ocean may exist beneath the hydrogen-rich atmosphere on K2-18 b. The JWST observation also identified a molecule called dimethyl sulfide (DMS), which on Earth is produced only by living organisms. Specifically, by phytoplankton in the marine environment.

However, scientists cautioned against drawing any conclusions about DMS, calling the data on this molecule less reliable and requiring further verification.

"Upcoming JWST observations will be able to confirm whether DMS is indeed present in the atmosphere of K2-18 b at significant levels," Madhusudhan said.

The scientists also noted that the mere fact that K2-18 b is in a suitable zone for life and contains carbon-containing molecules does not necessarily mean that the planet can support life.

ADVERTISIMENT

They explained that the planet's large size - its radius is 2.6 times that of Earth - means that its interior probably contains a large mantle of high-pressure ice, like Neptune's, but with a thinner, hydrogen-rich atmosphere and ocean surface. Such a world would be expected to have oceans, but they might be too hot to be habitable or in a liquid state.

In the future, the scientists intend to conduct studies using the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI) spectrograph that JWST is equipped with. They hope the new study will confirm their findings and provide new insights into the environmental conditions on K2-18 b.

"Our ultimate goal is to identify life on a habitable exoplanet, which would change our understanding of our place in the universe. Our results are a promising step towards a deeper understanding of Hycean worlds in this search," Madhusudhan summarized.

ADVERTISIMENT

Earlier OBOZREVATEL also told about the fact that the NASA telescope showed a bright death agony of a distant star.

Subscribe to OBOZREVATEL channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest news.
We are allowed to trade fruit, veg and related produce out of anywhere in our shop but theyve shut down the whole front of our operation and not let us trade today on the basis that our chocolate covered strawberries do not count as fruit, veg and related produce.
Mr White argued that Mr Khans stated objective  to clean up Londons toxic air and tackle the climate emergency  was unlawful because it had not been mandated by Parliament.
City Hall points out that councils and housing developers currently have no guidance on what the transition period will allow for, or what technical requirements will be needed to satisfy the new rules  for example, whether the two staircases will need to be entirely separate or whether they can be contained within the same building core.
I am really sorry for saying that. I have reflected on that and I shouldnt have said that. Its not appropriate for me to have said that, and Im really sorry  genuinely.
The pair of seats are likely to be among the final ones to have been contested mid term this time around but the Tories may still face further tests at the ballot box.
The response was published just days after it emerged that a parliamentary researcher had been arrested under the Official Secrets Act, amid claims that he had been spying for China, which he denies. He has not been charged with any offence.
Writing in the Telegraph, Mr Raab said: We must be vigilant and unrelenting in enforcing new domestic powers to safeguard our security, while we calmly and patiently expand the circle of partners abroad  to strengthen our hand in dealing with China.
Asked how any additional investment might be used, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said: Obviously it would vary. We do recognise there is further investment that will be needed to give us the tools and expertise. Some of that I obviously couldnt get into.
I saw a quote from somebody, it was the accusation of a cover-up, well we published the discussion and the only reason, as often is the case when we get stories put to us, the only reason people know about these things is because something was disclosed on the FOI.
Encouraging the production of jams with higher fruit content is broadly in line with previous UK proposed measures to reduce the sugar content of jam in line with reducing sugar intake. The minister notes that the changes to use of the term marmalade could be confusing for UK consumers as the terms marmalade and jam are not interchangeable in the UK and have differing requirements.
Until now, science has assumed that one of the key differences between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens, who coexisted in Europe tens of thousands of years ago, was the former's lack of tools. However, new research calls this assumption into question.

ADVERTISIMENT

As the publication SciTechDaily writes, an international research team found at the parking lot of Neanderthals She-Pinot-Jonzac in France traces of their use of human-like technologies. The research here has been conducted since 2019 and showed that bone tools among the traces of Neanderthal activity are as common as flint tools.

The scientists were also surprised by their diversity. They found bone slicing tools, scrapers, chisels, and grinders for a variety of activities and for processing a multitude of materials.

The implements were identified by marks of manufacture and use on the surface. They were also examined using X-ray microtomography. It turned out that the technology of making tools in Neanderthals was different. While Homo sapiens rubbed and scraped bones to get the objects they wanted, Neanderthals made their tools by hitting the material.

ADVERTISIMENT

The discovery of bone tools at She-Pino-Jonzak agrees with the evidence uncovered a few years earlier by the same team at the Neanderthal Chagir site in the Siberian Altai. These two sites are on opposite sides of the Neanderthal settlement range. But they testify that both species made and used bone tools for their daily needs. Both were skilled at working bone, but used slightly different methods to do so. Scientists suggest that they still have a number of secrets of Neanderthal technology ahead of them to uncover.

It is known that about 45,000 years ago in Western Europe began to appear anatomically modern people. They coexisted with Neanderthal groups for a while and then displaced them. During this period, Homo sapiens began making material culture objects, particularly various bone implements ranging from hunting tools and decorative jewelry to elaborate carved figurines.

ADVERTISIMENT

For a long time, scientists believed that Neanderthal groups simply did not know how to make bone implements and were limited to flint. And only used bones to work flint. New finds put this theory into question.

Earlier OBOZREVATEL told about the discovery of scientists, which questioned the low organization of groups of Neanderthals. Fresh discoveries show that they were more evolved than they were believed about them until now.

Subscribe to OBOZREVATEL 's Telegram and Viberchannels to keep up to date with the latest developments.
Ive been exploring today at Europol with police teams, with prosecutorial teams whether we can get a closer agreement that would allow us to share information more quickly, to have joint operations to take down those that are running this vile trade by stopping those boats getting in the water in the first place, he told reporters in The Hague.
So that rather than having gimmicks from the government about what we do when people are already in the UK, that we actually smash this and stop people getting into the water in the first place.
The welfare of all those in our care is of the utmost importance. Any death in immigration detention is a tragic event and will be subject to investigation by the police, the coroner, and the independent Prisons and Probation Ombudsman.
It is obviously standard process for departments to discuss the phasing of major projects like HS2, he told reporters, adding: Spades are already in the ground on the HS2 programme and we are focussed on delivering it.
But he accepted the Russian explanation, saying: We do not consider this incident to constitute a deliberate escalation on the part of the Russians, and our analysis concurs that it was due to a malfunction.
A post-mortem examination is unable to establish the cause of Saras death and further tests are carried out, but the examination shows the child had suffered multiple and extensive injuries which were likely to have been caused over a sustained and extended period of time.
New starters and their parents also receive wooden heart-shaped discs with the school motto Be the best you can be, which are placed in their hands and kept throughout their time at the school.
He had been lying down to avoid detection in a remote wooded area when one of the search teams, consisting of around 20 to 25 members, came close enough for him to realise they were there.
Washington has accused North Korea of providing arms to Russia, although it is not clear if deliveries have been made. Russia and North Korea have denied this.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces' strike on temporarily occupied Sevastopol on September 13 expectedly caused hysteria among Russian propagandists. In particular, well-known Kremlin presenter Vladimir Solovyov became indignant and called for retaliatory attacks on Western facilities that produced the missiles used by Ukraine.

ADVERTISIMENT

This was brought to the attention of analysts at the US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW). At the same time, they noted that Solovyov's calls for an escalation of relations with the West were template rhetoric for his domestic audience, but did not reflect the Kremlin's real position on the issue.

Meanwhile, Russian "war correspondents" expressed concern that the Ukrainian strike portends a strengthening of the Ukrainian campaign to de-occupy Crimea.

Analysts noted that satellite images published on September 12 show one large landing ship Minsk (NATO codification Ropucha) and one submarine Rostov-on-Don (NATO codification Kilo) in dry dock. At the same time, satellite images published on September 13 show that a Ukrainian missile strike probably destroyed both ships.

"The apparent destruction of the two ships will likely put the dry dock out of commission until Russian forces can clear the debris, which could take considerable time. The extent of damage to Sevmorzavod's repair facilities outside the dry dock is unclear," ISW noted.

ADVERTISIMENT

We will remind, on September 13, at least 7 powerful explosions were heard in occupied Sevastopol (Crimea). After them, smoke rose above the city. There are flights on the ship-repair plant of the occupants, a fire broke out there. This enterprise, located on the Ship side of Sevastopol, the plant is the main site for the construction and repair of ships of the Black Sea Fleet of the Russian Federation.

ADVERTISIMENT

The Russian Defense Ministry said ten cruise missiles hit a ship repair plant, of which seven were allegedly shot down by Russian air defense systems, and three uncrewed boats hit a detachment of Black Sea Fleet ships on a sea crossing, which were also defused. The Ukrainian army was blamed for the attack.

ADVERTISIMENT

According to Russian media, preliminary, the attack left two people dead and 26 injured.

As reported OBOZREVATEL:

- on the evening of September 13, the media reported that there were not enough places for the wounded in Sevastopol, temporarily occupied by Russia, as a result of the Ukrainian Defense Forces' attack on the Ordzhonikidze shipyard. Sevastopol and Crimean structures said that the exact number of dead was unknown, but there were definitely "more than two".

- The Ukrainian Defense Ministry's Main Directorate of Intelligence reported that the Russian large landing ship Minsk and submarine Rostov-on-Don could not be restored after the Defense Forces attacked the Ordzhonikidze shipyard in Sevastopol. Importantly, the enemy submarine was carrying Kalibr missiles.

- Sky News reported that during a night attack on Sevastopol on September 13, Ukraine hit Russian Black Sea Fleet ships with British Storm Shadow cruise missiles. As a result, two Russian Black Sea Fleet ships were damaged.

ADVERTISIMENT

Only verified information from us in Telegram-channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Through the clubs, the girls are matched with a madrinha, or godmother, someone from outside the family to guide them through adolescence and beyond. The madrinha looks for signs that a family might be planning a marriage, says Vilma Nhambi, who runs the girls clubs. Sometimes we see the girl changes her appearance, her hair or clothes, or crates of beer will be going to a certain house. Then theyll go to the house and see what they are planning.
The tech bit: At the base of the Duet is an air filter mechanism thats the heart of the drying power. Using internal aerodynamics, the brushless digital motor operates at a precise speed to style with low noise and no turbulence so theres no falling out with your housemates first thing in the morning. The air grille at the wider end of the tool is made up of four smart plates that style at a low temperature, while sensors ensure drying happens to the right level so as to maintain your hairs natural moisture.
Now, Lee has shown his chops, shaking up the deep-rooted Burberry DNA. The house has dropped its autumn/winter 2023 collection for buyers to browse, just weeks before its upcoming spring/summer 24 runway show as part of London Fashion Week. Its loyal fans are now able to have a gander at what the Bradford-born designer presented at his debut back in February.
I know that everyone round the table shares the same ambition  one also held by those many campaigners who raised their voices in support of the Filmhouse across recent months  to see the Filmhouse projectors kick back into life and the seats full of cinema lovers for decades to come.
Im not going to get into the personalities any more on this, Im not entirely comfortable with how all of that has been dealt with by RTE, he said.
His work Light Industry, inspired by his visit to a motorcycle dealership, won him the 25,000 prize for the first time, although he has been shortlisted twice before and served on the jury for the prize in 2008.
The Tanaiste said he did not know if it was the right decision to put the Montrose site in Donnybrook up for sale, but he said organisations that sold off land often ended up regretting it.
The Life Stories host told the outlet: Caring for someone you love is a privilege, and I will never give up, but I want to champion the cause that everyone in my position faces because I know people are drowning trying to navigate through the care system.
Her family said they would like to send their grateful thanks to everyone at Denville Hall who have taken such wonderful care of Jean and also to the staff at Hillingdon Hospital who made her so comfortable.
He added that being in the ocean makes him feel refreshed, saying: The idea of being under, just free in the ocean, with the wind pounding against you, the sun pounding down on you, and the shimmery ripples across the water, sparkles everywhere  It cleanses your mind.
A ufology enthusiast Jaime Maussan showed members of the public and authorities what he claims are potentially two alien mummies this week in Mexico. Because of people's love for various mysterious stories, these hearings, of course, caused a lot of debates. But this is not the first such story. As a rule, they end with a loud debunking of the fraud.

ADVERTISIMENT

One such case, which occurred in 2017-2018, was reported by Live Science. Then the public was shown five mummy-like bodies with three-fingered hands found in Peru. A thorough examination of these remains showed that they were created through a combination of black archeology and manipulation of parts of real human mummies.

What exactly did ufologists show

As explained by Andrew Nelson, a professor of anthropology at the University of Western Ontario in London, Canada, one of these mummies looked like a typical Nazca culture. Its representatives mummified their dead and chose a sitting posture for this purpose. They also created huge lines on the ground, which were called geoglyphs of the Nazca Valley. Conspiracy theorists often like to speculate that these lines may be the result of the work of extraterrestrial civilizations, not ancient people.

ADVERTISIMENT

Prof. Nelson did not participate in the study of the presented remains, but he was looked through the work on this topic and suggested that the arms and legs on the mummy he described could be parts of the remains of different people. Some traces may indicate that these remains were manipulated by falsifiers. They were covered with white cloth later to hide the traces of their work.

Some other researchers also believe that real parts of human mummies were used to create these fakes. In particular, a group of Peruvian researchers who study such remains condemned the practice in a statement and said it violates numerous national and international norms. Some called it an abuse of the dead.

How could these "mummies" have appeared?

The mummies that became the basis for these fakes were probably found in 2015 by tomb raiders working in the Nazca region, where the ancient Nazca culture flourished. According to the president of the Inkarri-Cusco Institute, Thierry Jamin, they could have been dug up by black archaeologists, the Huaceros, from the city of Palpa. The researcher named their head Mario.

ADVERTISIMENT

The scientist said that Mario is well known to the local police. He has been looting archaeological sites on the Peruvian coast for over 20 years, but no one stops him. When Jamin addressed the Peruvian Ministry of Culture with a description of this problem, he received no response. The ministry also did not respond to Live Science journalists.

The Russian trail

One of the key figures among those who tried to pass off the mummies as alien was a man named Konstantin Korotkov. He spoke to journalists in Russian and introduced himself as an employee of St. Petersburg University, but this information could not be confirmed.

In his interviews, Korotkov claimed that these mummies, like humans, have 23 pairs of chromosomes, but they have a different anatomy. The pseudo-scientist then claimed that these findings could be "aliens or biorobots." He also claimed that one of the mummies, according to radiocarbon analysis, is approximately 1700 years old. That is, the creature to which it belonged could be the same age as the Nazca culture.

ADVERTISIMENT

Theft of burials in Peru

Although the three-fingered mummies turned out to be obvious fakes, numerous mummified remains are found in Peru. In particular, 171 mummies aged about 1200 years were found near the Tenahaha ceremonial complex.

The problem is that not only scientists but also black archaeologists are searching for the remains. They are trying to get ahead of the researchers and loot ancient tombs to make money on the illegal sale of artifacts. This, among other things, slows down the development of science.

However, Peruvian authorities are trying to tighten control over black archaeologists. In particular, they have established stricter legal requirements for environmental and heritage impact studies, created by a Ministry of Culture, and began to check the professional level of archaeologists they hire more strictly. However, groups such as the Huaceros and Mario are still operating in the Nazca Valley. It is not known for certain to whom and for what purpose they may sell the remains of mummies. However, the mummy that was found in 2017 and tried to be passed off as an alien turned out to be the remains of a human child.

ADVERTISIMENT

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL spoke about an important factor in the search for aliens that can significantly affect potential contact with extraterrestrial civilizations.

Subscribe to OBOZREVATEL on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest news.


And believe me, people amongst our own team would say, You might just want to sit up a bit. And Id go, Why? [Because of] the bit of flesh you can see? No, thats the way its going to be!
This lithium store is nothing new, then, but its discovery of the extent of it is. It was written about in a paper published by Science Advances at the end of August.
Other awards at the virtual ceremony on Thursday included the medicine prize for using cadavers to explore whether there is an equal number of hairs in each of a persons two nostrils, and the nutrition prize for experiments to determine how electrified chopsticks and drinking straws can change the taste of food.
Tech & Science Daily spoke to British endurance athlete, Lewis Pugh, after he just finished a 315-mile swim along the Hudson in New York with the aim to highlight river health. Averaging 10 miles a day in just his trunks, cap and goggles, the UN patron of the oceans arrived at the southern tip of Manhattan island on Wednesday, after a month of swimming through powerful currents all while avoiding boats.
Over the past 24 hours, the Defense Forces thinned the enemy Russian army by 620 occupants. Thus, for the entire time of the full-scale war in Ukraine, the number of the Russian Federation's losses in manpower has already reached 270,970 people.

ADVERTISIMENT

This was reported on September 14 in Facebook of the General staff of the AFU. It is also noted that the Ukrainian fighters for the first time destroyed a submarine of the Russians and 145 units of other equipment, among which also 1 large landing ship (already the 20th from February 24, 2022).

In addition, as of this morning, the Russians were missing 15 tanks (already 4,599 in total for a full-scale war), 18 armored combat vehicles (8,810), 42 artillery systems (5,944), 3 MLRS (769), 47 operational-tactical-level UAVs (4,697), 14 vehicles and tanker trucks (8,458), and 5 special vehicles (889).

Recall, the AFU showed how their three combat units jointly hit the enemy's main battle tank T-72 "Ural". The Russians for some reason installed a grille over the hatch for the crew, but the Ukrainian defenders such an "obstacle" only disappointed. They dropped an explosive device directly into the hatch to the invaders from an FPV drone, which is characterized by speed and precision in control.

ADVERTISIMENT

Ukrainian national guardsmen also eliminated an "impenetrable" Russian T-80BVM tank. Just days before the destruction of this tank, Russian propagandists filmed a pathos story about how this equipment is supposedly not taken by either drones or Javelin and NLAW anti-tank systems.

"Aerial scouts of the 27th brigade of the National Guard have already conducted a real, not staged test. The result: the T-80BVM burns and explodes perfectly. The National Guard soldiers are skilled both in combat and in destroying Russian fakes," the Interior Ministry said.

As reported by OBOZREVATEL:

- Ukrainian drones staged a "bavovna" at one of the "polling stations" in temporarily occupied Zaporizhzhya. Explosions were heard in Blagovishchenka, in the premises where the invaders brought filled "ballots" from the entire Blagovishchenka amalgamated territorial community.

ADVERTISIMENT

- Under the liberated Rabotino in Zaporizhzhya, AFU soldiers captured the most modern Russian T-90M "Breakthrough" tank. Our military worked with jewelry, almost without damaging the equipment itself.
On the morning of September 14, explosions were heard near Eupatoria in temporarily occupied Crimea. The Russian occupants complained about another drone attack and reported on the work of their air defenses.

ADVERTISIMENT

About it writes Telegram-channel "Crimean wind" from the testimonies of eyewitnesses. The photo published online shows a powerful explosion, resulting in a column of smoke (to see the video, scroll to the end of the news).

It is noted that the hit tentatively had to hit the air defense installation of the Russians.

In addition, about the flight of drones, several explosions and the dawn reported, for example, local residents in the group "AMS EUPATORIA Eupatoria" in Telegram. As the media write, there are several military units in the area of Eupatoria. The Saki military airfield, which has already been hit by the Ukrainian army, is also not far from it.

ADVERTISIMENT

According to local residents, the explosions occurred, presumably in the area of the Zaozerne settlement. People complained that the blast wave in Eupatoria made many people's houses "go round and round".

The Russian Defense Ministry said that at around 05.30 Moscow time,"air defense forces destroyed 11 Ukrainian drones of the airplane type over Crimea".

At the same time, residents of Eupatoria filmed UAVs flying over residential buildings, as well as one of the drones that managed to be shot down. The author of the video complained about the acrid odor emanating from it.

Also, as the media write, explosions occurred in the area of the settlement of Uyutne. Ambulances and rescuers drive along the streets. As local residents told "Suspilne Krym", it is in this area is located military unit #85683.

ADVERTISIMENT

Oleksiy Honcharenko, an MP of Ukraine from "European Solidarity", said in Telegram that the hit probably hit an air defense base near Eupatoria. At the same time, he noted that this information is not accurate.

Meanwhile, the Russian Defense Ministry claims that early Thursday morning Ukrainian naval drones again attacked a Russian ship in the Black Sea - and "again without success." In particular, the Russian Defense Ministry's press service noted that around 5 a.m., five uncrewed boats attempted to attack the Black Sea Fleet patrol ship Sergei Kotov in the sea, but were allegedly destroyed.

ADVERTISIMENT

It should be noted that the day before the Russian terrorist agency also claimed that Ukrainian marine drones had unsuccessfully attacked Russian ships at sea. And, judging by the Defense Ministry's statement, it took place around the time when a missile strike was launched against a ship repair plant in Sevastopol, as a result of which, as is known, two ships of the Russian Black Sea Fleet were significantly damaged.

This time, the ministry released a report about the victory over Ukrainian naval drones right after the news about the airborne drone raid on the Eupatoria area.

Recall, the day before "bavovna" visited the temporarily occupied Sevastopol on the territory of Crimea. There the hit was hit on the ship repair plant of the occupants, a fire broke out. This enterprise, located on the Ship Side of Sevastopol, is the main site for the construction and repair of ships of the Black Sea Fleet of the Russian Federation.

ADVERTISIMENT

"Air defense means shot down seven cruise missiles, patrol ship "Vasily Bykov" destroyed all uncrewed boats. Two ships under repair were damaged by enemy cruise missiles," the Russian Defense Ministry said.

According to the Russian media, two people were killed and 26 injured in the attack as a preliminary result of the attack by the AFU missile attack on the Sevastopol naval plant named after S. Ordzhonikidze. All of them are employees of the plant.

It is also reported that two vessels were damaged on the territory of the plant : diesel-electric submarine Rostov-on-Don and large landing ship Minsk, they burst into flames. Both vessels were under repair in the dry dock.

As reported by OBOZREVATEL:

- Sky News reported that during a night attack on Sevastopol on September 13, Ukraine hit the ships of the Russian Black Sea Fleet with British Storm Shadow cruise missiles. As a result, two Russian Black Sea Fleet ships were damaged.

ADVERTISIMENT

- The attack on Sevastopol expectedly caused hysteria among Russian propagandists. In particular, Vladimir Solovyov, a well-known Kremlin presenter, was outraged and called for a retaliatory attack on Western facilities that produced the missiles used by Ukraine.

Only verified information from us in Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Gov't to consider aid scheme for Romanian farmers affected by rising grain imports from Ukraine

Featuring on government's agenda at today's meeting is a decision on emergency aid to Romanian agricultural producers affected by increasing grain and oilseed cropimports from Ukraine; approving a vegetable production support programme for protected areas in 2023-2024, and allocating money for the purpose of training specialist staff from Ukraine in providing qualified first aid, told Agerpres.

The draft decision on support for the cereal and oilseed sector says that the scheme is nationwide based on objective and non-discriminatory criteria and does not cause distortion of the market or competition, while the payment of the aid is carried out throughout December 31, 2023.

Other items on the agenda is approving agreements with Moldova on a road bridge over the Prut River at the border between the two countries, between the towns of Sculeni (Romania) - Sculeni (Moldova); a road bridge over the Prut River, at the border between the two countries, between the towns of Oancea (Romania) - Cahul (Moldova), and another road bridge over the Prut River, at the border between the two countries between the towns of Albita (Romania) - Leuseni (Moldova).

There is also a piece of legislation amending Government Decision 973/2006 regarding the applicable procedure in cases where a postponement of the final determination of the customs value is necessary, as well as the reorganisation of some departments operating under the authority of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The government is also considering extracting from the state reserves and granting external emergency humanitarian aid, free of charge, to Syria intended for the protection of the population affected by the latest major earthquake in Turkey.

It will also look at a piece of legislation approving an emergency plan for the security of natural gas supply in Romania approving measures for safety and security in the operation of the National Electrical Grid, as well as measures for replenishing the safety stocks of the National Electrical Grid in terms of fuels and the volume of water in the reservoirs November 1, 2023 - March 31, 2024.
The minister of National Defense, Angel Tilvar, received the German ambassador in Bucharest, Peer Gebauer, on Thursday, at the Ministry of National Defence (MApN) headquarters, with whom he discussed the current security situation in the region in the context of the conflict in Ukraine.

"During the discussions, specific evaluations related to security developments at a regional level generated by the ongoing aggression of the Russian Federation in Ukraine, with a significant impact on the safety of the Ukrainian civilian population, as well as Romanian citizens in the areas near the Danube border between Romania and Ukraine, were addressed," MApN informs in a press release sent to AGERPRES.

The cooperation between Romania and Germany, in the NATO and EU format, in the current security context, was also mentioned, and the immediate priorities at the level of Romanian-German cooperation and coordination were addressed, with an emphasis on the implementation of the fundamental decisions adopted in the context of the NATO Summit in Vilnius, especially as regards the strengthening of the allied deterrence and defense position on the eastern flank, including the Black Sea.

At the same time, specific attention was also pointed towards the aspects related to cooperation within the EU initiatives dedicated to profiling the European defense.

In this context, MApN shows, the Romanian minister expressed his appreciation for Germany's commitment in the implementation of deterrence and defense measures dedicated to the allied eastern flank, highlighting the participation of the German Air Force in the Consolidated Air Police (eAP) missions and the involvement of the German military in the allied command structures in Romania.

At the same time, Angel Tilvar emphasized the importance of continuing joint bilateral and multinational exercises, both in Romania and in Germany, as well as increasing cooperation in the field of operations and training, military education, scientific research and, last but not least, on the technical-military level and the defense industry, the press release mentions.
PM Ciolacu: Each energy card gets refilled RON 700 for each beneficiary

The energy cards in circulation have got refilled RON 700 per beneficiary, Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu said on Thursday.

"The European funds minister also has good news: the energy cards now in circulation - over 1.5 million - have been refilled RON 700 for each beneficiary. And the new cards, in the process of distribution, will get the money after the Romanian Post announces having reached the almost 400,000 beneficiaries," Ciolacu said at the beginning of a government meeting on Thursday.

On September 6, the Post announced that the second stage of the aid programme regarding the payment of energy bills started on September 5.

"The second stage started with the printing and wrapping of over 370,000 new cards by the Stamp Factory, a specialised branch of the Romanian Post National Corporation. The new cards are intended for people who have recently joined the grid, as well as those who have changed their home address. On the other hand, those who retain their status as beneficiaries from the first filling will be able to use the cards for the refilling as well. At the same time, as in the case of the first filling, this time as well the postmen have started collecting the bona fide statements from the beneficiaries of energy cards who have a residence without a street nomenclature, a prevailing situation in the rural environment," according to the Romanian Post.

Both the cards related to the first filling and those related to the refilling can be used until December 27, 2023.

Qualifying for the aid are pensioners on an income below RON 2,000 ; disability pensioners on an income below RON 2,000 lei, including RON 2,000; persons with severe or moderate disabilities on an income below RON 2,000 lei, including RON 2,000; families on support allowance; families/persons on social security.

The average monthly income for each family member shall not exceed RON 2,000.

The services covered by the "Energy Card" programme enables people to pay current or outstanding bills for: electricity, steam in a centralised system, LPG propane gas bottles/cylinders for heating (excluding LPG butane gas bottles/cylinders for household use - cooking), gas, firewood, heavy fuel oil, pellets and other materials for heating only (for example, geothermal water, coal, wood sawdust briquettes).

Those qualifying for the cards will have to produce the following upon paying : a valid energy card delivered by the Romanian Post; and identity document; current or past invoice.
Agerpres special correspondent Cristian Lupascu reports: The Republic of Moldova's goal is to build an army at NATO standards, Moldovan prime minister Dorin Recean said at the end of a meeting with NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana.

According to him, the Republic of Moldova needs to strengthen its defence capability, in particular by investing in the national army, agerpres reports.

"Moldova's neutrality does not mean indifference. Moldova's neutrality does not mean that we should do nothing. That is why we must strengthen our defence capability. That is why we have to make these investments in the national army, so that we have a national army up to NATO standards and obviously here we will have the support of our partners," Recean said.

He added that the Republic of Moldova will participate in NATO's new technology and innovation programmes.

Mircea Geoana also spoke of the need for the Republic of Moldova to have an efficient army, compatible with NATO structures.

"Neutrality does not mean that you should not have an efficient army. Look at Switzerland! I am giving you an obvious example. That is why we are working together with our partners in the Republic of Moldova to have an army, national security structures that are compatible with us, efficient, motivated and I also welcome the fact that, in terms of the budget of the Republic of Moldova, there are additional resources to strengthen the defence capability of the Republic of Moldova," the NATO official stressed.
The largest diplomatic cultural event in Romania, with over 150 artists from 22 countries on 5 continents, in which over 50 partners are involved - embassies, museums, galleries and other institutions, takes place in central Sibiu, between 16 - 30 September, in the organization of the Brukenthal National Museum and the Brukenthal von Studio Association, according to a press release sent to AGERPRES on Thursday.

The event is carried out with the support of the Ministry of Culture, under the patronage of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, agerpres reports.

"The International Festival of Contemporary Art from Sibiu - SCAF (Sibiu Contemporary Art Festival) is an initiative led by Alexandru Constantin Chituta, acting manager of the Brukenthal National Museum - president of SCAF, and Ilie Mitrea, president of the Brukenthal von Studio Association," the source adds.

Exhibitions and events within the festival will take place in several cultural spaces in Sibiu: the Brukenthal Palace, the Blue House, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Council Tower, the Habitus Cultural Center.According to the source, SCAF has an international extension integrating elements of cultural diplomacy represented by the participation of foreign artists, with the support of the Romanian embassies in China, Japan, Poland, Great Britain, Slovenia, Iran, Lebanon, Syria, Germany, Austria, North Macedonia, Cuba, Peru, Republic of Moldova, Nigeria, Finland, Uruguay, United Arab Emirates and Georgia."The festival opens a platform for research and dialogue with international insertions between artists, architects, curators, art critics, managers of cultural institutions and independent cultural platforms as well as museum specialists who will complete the exhibition programme with a series of conferences and lectures," the release says.IN|TOUCH, the current edition's festival's theme is, according to the organizers, a metaphor for the inter-connectivity and interactivity of the contemporary cultural language, being generated by the desire to probe those specific elements of each artistic discourse that intersect creating networks of content both at the level discourse, as well as at the level of thematic and research of contemporary problems."It is the most important cultural-diplomatic event in our country, but also the largest festival if we refer to the exhibited techniques: from classic visual structures - painting, sculpture, graphics - to multimedia installations, object installations and immersive installations, NFT, photo-video art and experimental artistic practices. Many of the artists are exhibiting for the first time in Romania. We have, for example, artists from the Middle East, a very daring and interesting thing, but also contemporary art from central Africa, from Nigeria. This year, the invited country is the Republic of Moldova. We will have an exhibition curated by Mr. Tudor Zbarnea, the director of the National Art Museum of Moldova in Chisinau," said the interim manager of the Brukenthal National Museum and president of SCAF, Alexandru Constantin Chituta, who thanked the Minister of Culture from the Republic of Moldova, Sergiu Prodan, for his involvement."As we announced, we will have a series of conferences in the field of art and architecture and we will also open a new point of sale of brand products at the Museum of Contemporary Art," said Alexandru Constantin Chituta.The organizing funds come from sponsorships and from the budget of the Brukenthal National Museum.
Searches to find drug suppliers to private parties, in Bucharest and sea coast

Anti-drug officers are carrying out, on Thursday, 11 house searches in Bucharest, in two cases concerning drug suppliers at private parties attended by teenagers from families with significant material possibilities, told Agerpres.

"On September 14, police officers of the Bucharest Organised Crime Squad - Antidrug Service, together with Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) prosecutors - Central Structure, carried out 11 house searches in Bucharest in two criminal cases, for the investigation of drug trafficking offences, providing a home for illicit drug use, and offences against the administration of justice," informs a press release of the Inspectorate General of the Romanian Police (IGPR).

" Hydra Operation," carried out on Thursday morning, targets teenagers from families with significant material possibilities, who have been operating in Bucharest, as well as in resorts on the Black Sea coast, during the summer season.

According to the investigators, these people are specialised in the distribution of cannabis, ecstasy tablets, MDMA, cocaine and other synthetic drugs in various locations, restaurants and luxury clubs, most of the clients of the drugs sold by them being constant users, people with a high financial potential.

The individuals allegedly supplied various risk and high-risk dru gs at private parties held in various private locations in Bucharest, which were also attended by people with high financial potential.

They would have procured the drugs in different ways, either through dealers or online orders.

The police will execute three arrest warrants, as well as several summonses, and the persons in question will be taken to the DIICOT - Central Structure for hearings and legal measures.

Special support was provided by the Special Operations Directorate of the Romanian Police.

Gendarmes from the Special Intervention Brigade of the Gendarmerie participate in the activities.
Representatives of universities from 12 countries will present to high school students and students of the bachelor's and master's programme the facilities they could benefit from (scholarships, sources of financing, employment opportunities, educational and vocational counseling) on September 30 and October 1, at the Palace Hall in Bucharest, at The International University Fair.

Now in its 31st edition, IUF - The International University Fair brings representatives of universities and educational institutions from Denmark, Belgium, Italy, Austria, Ireland, Switzerland, Greece, Romania, Holland, France, Germany and Finland to Bucharest, agerpres reports.

According to a press release of the organizers, the participants of IUF - The International University Fair can find out information about 5,000 study programmes (bachelor's, master's, PhD) in fields such as IT, engineering, management, business, economics, entrepreneurship, marketing, medicine, psychology, robotics, zoology, horse riding, sport, cinematography, criminology, graphic design, fashion design, film, media production, music production.

On September 30 and October 1, visitors can receive personalized guidance to discover the fields of study and universities that best match their passions and aspirations. Educational counselors and vocational counselors can provide young people with information about admission procedures, funding sources and scholarships so that they can make an informed decision.In addition to discussions with university representatives, high school students and students of bachelor's and master's programmes can also participate in the YouForum Conference, where they will have the opportunity to discuss with more than 35 guests, professionals with experience in the fields in which they are active.This fall, IUF - The International University Fair takes place in 3 cities: Bucharest (September 30 and October 1), Iasi (October 3) and (Cluj) on October 5.
ST. LOUIS  Total Access Urgent Care plans to reopen five St. Louis-area locations that are temporarily closed.

The urgent care chain, which has 27 sites in the area, has closed clinics at different times over the course of the pandemic, said Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations Kelly Baynes.

Like many health care providers, Total Access saw patient volumes drop during the COVID-19 pandemic as residents delayed medical care, and the company temporarily closed some sites.

Then the clinics saw a flood of patients looking for COVID-19 tests, but a shortage of health care workers, some of whom had to take on childcare responsibilities, and others who were leaving the industry.

Depending on how busy the location is, a single Total Access clinic can be staffed by between six to 12 people, Baynes said.

Five locations are now temporarily closed. The chain aims to reopen them gradually, between November and the spring of 2024. The clinics are in Ellisville, St. Peters, Valley Park, North Kirkwood and Sunset Hills.

Baynes said Total Access tuition reimbursement for radiology technologists helped increase staffing, as well as its new training programs for emergency medical technicians. One of the courses runs for seven weeks, the other for 12 weeks.

Urgent cares have proliferated in recent years, but Baynes said patient demand hasnt slowed.

In reality, if our doors are open, the patients will come, Baynes said.
DETROIT  With just over 30 hours to go before a strike deadline he set, United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain on Wednesday rolled out the latest, unprecedented twist in his unorthodox campaign to win a historic contract for nearly 150,000 workers, including 3,700 in Wentzville, at the Detroit Three automakers.

For the first time in the UAWs history, the union could order members at all three of Detroits automakers  General Motors, Ford and Stellantis NV  to walk off the job starting after their contracts expire at 11:59 p.m. (Eastern) on Thursday, Fain said in a Facebook video address Wednesday evening.

The Friday walkout would start with targeted strikes designed to create confusion, among automakers, Fain said, leaving the door open for last-minute agreements.

A quoter of the Bible and Nation of Islam civil rights leader Malcolm X, a gleeful social media star and a master of charts and financial talk, Fain has remade the strategy of the union he leads, choosing a bolder, much riskier path than his predecessors.

Never before has the UAW tried rolling strikes at all three companies to win a contract, and never has it demanded as much.

Referring to Biblical scripture, Fain asked union members: Are you willing to have faith and move that mountain? Nobodys coming to save us.

The rolling strike strategy is just the latest way in which Fain has broken with decades of UAW tradition since he won office by a narrow margin in a first-ever direct election earlier this year.

Fain has used charts and graphs to dissect wage and benefit offers from the automakers during his video talks  details his predecessors kept behind closed doors in the final hours of bargaining.

He has rebutted automakers concerns about labor costs by pointing out that they have poured billions into share buybacks to benefit investors.

If theyve got money for Wall Street they sure as hell have money for the workers making the product, he said.

With the clock ticking down, Fain is running what amounts to a public auction among the companies to push each one to top the other to avoid a costly walkout. Prior UAW presidents picked just one to set a pattern for the other two.

Fain has made creative use of social media, appearances on network and cable news programs and alliances with high-profile progressive politicians such as U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, to reframe the UAWs contract bargaining as a battle to reset the balance of power between workers and global corporations.

We fight for the good of the entire working class and the poor, he said.

Over and over, the hard-nosed union chief has told UAW members at the Detroit Three that they can reverse 20 years of wage and retiree benefit concessions, stop further plant closures and end a seniority-based, tiered compensation system that pays new hires as much as 44% less than veteran workers.

Achieving any one of those goals in one bargaining round would be a significant achievement. UAW-Detroit Three contracts have tended toward incremental change, with worker gains offset by provisions that allowed the companies to drive costs down with automation and process efficiency.

The 54-year-old union veteran, who carries his UAW-member grandfathers pay stubs in his wallet, has escalated his rhetoric  and his stage craft  since bargaining kicked off in July.

In one of his early Facebook Live videos, he delivered his message wearing a black T-shirt with a quotation from U.S. civil rights leader Malcolm X on the back.

On Wednesday, he told UAW members they must fight for a better contract by any means necessary  one of Malcolm Xs most quoted phrases.

Moments later, Fain quoted from the Christian Bible  which he said he reads daily.

Fain has slammed the automakers inadequate wage offers with a trash can labeled Big Three Proposals perched on a shelf behind him.

Long-term technology threats

Now comes the crucial test for Fains strategy as the current contracts with the Detroit Three expire.

In 2019, the union launched a strike against GM when the company refused to agree to a contract by the deadline. That six-week strike cost GM $3.6 billion and stressed the finances of UAW members.

The union has since beefed up its strike fund to $825 million. But the automakers have billions in cash to withstand job actions.

Other unions, including Teamsters at delivery giant United Parcel Service and writers and actors in Hollywood, have also been emboldened, and some including UPS have won substantial raises. The actors and writers have been on strike for more than 100 days.

Like the Hollywood unions, the UAW members at the Detroit Three face threats from new technology that a richer contract will not resolve. Executives of the Detroit Three have said the UAWs demands will make them uncompetitive as the shift to EVs offsets the profits delivered by the combustion trucks UAW members build.

Fain dismisses those warnings.

They pretend the sky will fall if we get our fair share of the quarter of a trillion dollars the Big Three have made over the past decade, Fain said. Its the billionaire economy  thats what they are worried about.

Additional reporting by Bianca Flowers in Chicago and David Shepardson in Washington.
ST. LOUIS  A cyberattack earlier this week caused a major law enforcement database to shut down for about a day, leaving local police departments to lean on backup procedures for arrest reports, jail logs and law enforcement records.

The database, Regional Justice Information System, was shut down Monday evening, said its CEO Ryan Burckhardt. It was back up and running by Tuesday evening.

REJIS is a non-profit government agency that serves the city of St. Louis and St. Louis, St. Charles, Jefferson and Franklin counties, as well as Kansas and parts of Illinois. Arrest reports from virtually every police agency in St. Louis and St. Louis County are entered into the system. It also includes crime records recorded by the Missouri Highway Patrol and the FBI.

Burckhardt told the Post-Dispatch he couldnt release much information about the breach or how the system works because of security concerns, but he said Wednesday that no sensitive information was compromised in the attack.

We shut our system down for a period of time, Burckhardt said. We just wanted to do our due diligence to make sure it was safe for all the other agencies.

Most local agencies were back online by Wednesday, but St. Louis County plans to keep its servers offline until it gets a report from SpearTip, the cybersecurity company investigating the attack, said Doug Moore, a spokesman for the county.

Missouri Highway Patrol was running warrants for county police, and the county also had corrections officers stationed at the highway patrols regional headquarters, Moore said.

In St. Charles County, a REJIS employee wrote in an email to police on Tuesday that the system was having intermittent issues with stability.

Several police departments told the Post-Dispatch that the outage, while inconvenient, had little impact on officers day-to-day work.

The outage primarily affected the timely return of criminal justice information and the ability of our officers to enter data into our report management system, said Webster Groves Officer Paul Boudreau.

Franklin County was the only local agency that uses REJIS but was not hit by the cyberattack. Tim Brinker, Franklin Countys presiding commissioner, said he did not have details on why the county went unaffected.

Burkhardt noted that REGIS clients use several different services, so some departments may not have had an interruption in services.

REJIS grew out of local police departments efforts in the late 1960s to computerize arrest records. In 1973, under an arrangement worked out by the city and St. Louis County, REJIS was established. Three years later, in response to questions from the FBI about giving computerized crime records to a private corporation, REJIS reorganized and became a nonprofit government agency with a seven-member board  three appointed by the St. Louis mayor, three by the St. Louis County executive and the seventh member who is jointly appointed and serves as chair.

Security for the database is tight. Officers and others with access can be criminally charged for illegally using the database. In 2021, Amy Loftus, a former St. Louis County police officer, was charged with five misdemeanor counts of misuse of official information by a public servant. She was accused of making 17 searches for sensitive and restricted information of fellow officers and one for her mother in REJIS.
Ukrainian Defense Forces soldiers are advancing "meter by meter" in the Robotyne area in the Zaporizhzhya direction. Russian troops have been building defenses there for more than a year, which complicates the movement of Ukrainian fighters.

ADVERTISIMENT

In addition, the Russian occupiers are trying to regain lost positions, but without success. About it on air of the telethon on Wednesday, September 13, told a serviceman of the 47th separate mechanized brigade Igor Gannenko.

"For you to understand, this is an advancement meter by meter literally. It's landing after landing," he said.

The military officer noted that the Russians were building fortifications in southern Ukraine, actively mined the territory and did everything to slow down the AFU counteroffensive.

ADVERTISIMENT

"Despite this, meter by meter we manage to advance. Yes, of course, we are paying a certain price for this, but we should all realize that we now have a certain historical chance, we have the support of the world, and we should now continue to liberate our territories and return our land," Gannenko stressed.

Units of the Defense Forces stand courageously and do not allow the enemy to recapture the territories that have recently been liberated.

"As soon as our infantry enters some position, immediately there is consolidation and already the infantry courageously stands and holds the position," the warrior said.

At the same time, the occupiers in the south are reinforced with reserves, as the main enemy units in this direction are severely depleted.

ADVERTISIMENT

"Despite the fact that the enemy is strengthening, pulling up reserves, our advance will continue and meter by meter we will liberate our land," the soldier added.

On the eve of the representative of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Andriy Kovalev said that the Ukrainian troops have success in the Robotyne area.

"As a result of assault actions, the Defense Forces have partial success in the Robotyne area of Zaporizhzhya region," Kovalev said.

Earlier, the British newspaper The Times wrote that the main driving force behind the liberation of Robotyne in Zaporizhzhya was not Western armored vehicles, but sappers who were on their knees or lying down clearing paths for these vehicles and infantry. They have to face large-scale minefields of the occupiers up to half a kilometer wide - the enemy combines different mines and traps and makes "hamburgers" of three anti-tank mines at once.

ADVERTISIMENT

As reported OBOZREVATEL, President Volodymyr Zelensky said that it is important for Ukraine not to pause in the counter-offensive to free all its territories from Russian occupation. To do this, the Defense Forces need long-range weapons and an advantage over the Russians in the sky.

Only verified information we have in our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and in Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
ST. CHARLES  A jury here has awarded a Dardenne Prairie man $2.3 million after an electronic cigarette battery exploded in his mouth, broke his teeth, fractured his jaw and burned his hand.

Attorneys for Bryan Durham argued during a four-day trial last week that e-cigarette distributor Lightfire Holdings LLC handed customers a tiny pipe bomb with a powerful, unprotected lithium-ion battery and did not warn them of the potential dangers.

Its like they hand you a brick of C-4 and they tell you its Play-Doh, said Sara Craig, an attorney for Durham. You have no comprehension that what youre handling is that volatile and has that much potential energy stored inside it.

An attorney for Florida-based Lightfire Holdings did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday, but the company argued in filings it should not be held liable for Durhams injuries.

Electronic cigarettes first came on the market in 2007 and were billed as a safer, cleaner alternative to cigarettes. Sales rose dramatically from 2008 to 2012, from roughly $20 million to $2.5 billion, and experts predict the business will soon surpass the tobacco industry altogether, according to Durhams suit.

The devices work by using a battery-powered heating element to vaporize a liquid contained in a tank, which allows the smoker to inhale vapor and nicotine. Many contain powerful, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which are also found in cellphones, laptops, electric cars, power tools and electronic bicycles.

When such batteries overheat, it causes a phenomenon called thermal runaway, which can lead to explosions, fires or serious injury. In e-cigarettes, Durhams attorneys said, the phenomenon can cause the devices battery to shoot out like a bullet.

Most devices that use lithium-ion batteries have protections and safeguards that stop such a problem, but that was not the case when Durham purchased a Tobeco Super Tank Mini e-cigarette at a St. Louis-area vape shop upon the recommendation of an employee, according to his suit.

Durham was sitting on his couch in 2017 when the device exploded, causing injuries throughout his body, according to the suit.

He wrapped his arm in a towel and drove himself to the emergency room in OFallon, Missouri, where he passed out. He was then taken to Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, where he had oral and hand surgery, as well as stitches in his arm. He has permanent scars and nerve damage.

Craig, of the firm Peiffer Wolf Carr Kane Conway & Wise, said it was relatively common practice for sellers to distribute devices with no safeguards, and she presented experts who testified about the danger of the devices and the responsibility of companies to warn consumers about the risks, however rare.

Federal regulators have since required safeguards in vapes, but Craig said it shouldnt have taken injuries for manufacturers to start making changes.

The St. Charles County jury issued the verdict last Friday of $352,000 in compensatory damages plus $2 million in punitive damages. Craig said she believed jurors wanted to make a statement.

They wanted to send a message to the e-cigarette industry and say that youre not going to play fast and loose, youre not going to consider harm to consumers as just another cost of doing business, she said.
ST. LOUIS  Two boys were hit by gunfire Wednesday night in the city's Dutchtown neighborhood.

A 13-year-old boy was shot in the head, and a 14-year-old boy was shot in the leg about 11:30 p.m. in the 3200 block of Delor Street, police said.

Another 14-year-old boy was uninjured.

Medics took the two injured boys to the hospital, where police said they were stable.

Police released no details about what led to the shooting. Police said they have no suspects.
ST. LOUIS  Police on Wednesday identified a man killed earlier this month in a double shooting in north St. Louis.

Damian Hurston, 28, was killed just before midnight Sept. 4 in the 5500 block of Page Boulevard, on the edge of the city's West End and Hamilton Heights neighborhood.

Hurston was pronounced dead at the scene, and an 18-year-old woman was also treated for gunshot wound to the arm. She was stable.

Police said they don't have any suspects in the shooting.

Hurston lived on Greer Avenue in the city's Jeff-Vander-Lou neighborhood.
WEBSTER GROVES  Webster Universitys board of trustees has refused to detail why it approved annual pay raises for the colleges top leaders while the school lost hundreds of millions of dollars.

Several trustees said the discussions are confidential.

Chancellor Beth Stroble and President Julian Schuster now earn more than double than what they made in total compensation a decade ago, making them some of the highest paid university leaders in the metro area  even as Webster lost more than $128 million over the past decade, including $25 million in each of the past two reported years.

Sign up for the Brick City newsletter Steph Kukuljan and other business reporters bring you insights into St. Louis-area real estate and development.

Last week, Stroble referred questions about her pay to the board of trustees, which has fiduciary oversight of the university.

But all 17 independent board members either declined comment or didnt respond to requests for an interview.

This week, three of the trustees referred questions to the board chair, Sumit Verma.

Two of those trustees, vice chairs Jovita Foster, chief legal officer for Drury Hotels, and Susan Gay Burns, the retired chief human resources officer for Reinsurance Group of America, said they couldnt comment on any confidential matters concerning Webster University, including employee compensation information.

Verma, who is senior vice president of Iovance Biotherapeutics, did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

Webster University has not turned a profit since 2013 and has seen student enrollment halved. Newly released financial disclosures show that Websters financial and enrollment losses are the worst of comparable private colleges in the metro area. This month, the owner of Websters downtown St. Louis campus sued the university in federal court over allegations it had not paid rent for most of the year.

But despite those problems, Websters board of trustees continued to approve annual raises for all but one year  in the 2018-2019 school year, when both leaders saw a 9% drop.

In 2019, total compensation for Stroble and Schuster each rose by more than a third, when Stroble was promoted to chancellor, earning $799,000, and Schuster to president, earning $578,000. Enrollment that fall dropped 8% to 12,179 students over the previous year.

In the 2021-22 school year, Stroble and Schuster received $992,000 and $858,000  a 5% and 18% year-over-year increase, according to the latest available data.

Only the chancellor of Washington University, who made $1.6 million, and the president of Maryville University, who made $1.7 million, earned more money that year.

Meanwhile, several current and former Webster employees who spoke to the Post-Dispatch for a previous story had described the atmosphere at the college as one with declining morale and a culture of blame.

Comments from the boards vice chairs, Foster and Burns, on Wednesday were the first responses to the Post-Dispatch from trustees.

Webster University Board of Trustees Marvin Anderson , senior vice president of Bank of America

Declined to comment

, senior vice president of Bank of America Declined to comment Susan Gay Burns , vice chair of the board and retired chief human resources officer for Reinsurance Group of America

Declined to comment and referred questions to the board chair

, vice chair of the board and retired chief human resources officer for Reinsurance Group of America Declined to comment and referred questions to the board chair Mike Claiborne , broadcaster for KMOX and St. Louis Cardinals

Did not respond to requests for comment

, broadcaster for KMOX and St. Louis Cardinals Did not respond to requests for comment Alicia Elsner , president and general manager of KSDK

Did not respond to requests for comment

, president and general manager of KSDK Did not respond to requests for comment Dr. William Fogarty , retired physician

Declined to comment

, retired physician Declined to comment Jovita Foster , vice chair of the board and general counsel for Drury Hotels Co.

Declined to comment and referred questions to the board chair

, vice chair of the board and general counsel for Drury Hotels Co. Declined to comment and referred questions to the board chair Andy Geisse , operating partner for Bessemer Venture Partners

Did not respond to requests for comment

, operating partner for Bessemer Venture Partners Did not respond to requests for comment Mike Girsch , general manager of the St. Louis Cardinals

Did not respond to requests for comment

, general manager of the St. Louis Cardinals Did not respond to requests for comment Gus Hattrich , president of Paradowski Creative

Did not respond to requests for comment

, president of Paradowski Creative Did not respond to requests for comment Kristin Johnson , chief transformation and human resources officer for Edward Jones

Declined to comment and referred questions to the board chair

, chief transformation and human resources officer for Edward Jones Declined to comment and referred questions to the board chair Lisa Melandri , executive director of the Contemporary Art Museum

Did not respond to requests for comment

, executive director of the Contemporary Art Museum Did not respond to requests for comment Jennifer Ozimkiewicz , senior vice president for Bayer Crop Science

Did not respond to requests for comment

, senior vice president for Bayer Crop Science Did not respond to requests for comment Kathleen O'Neill Paese , interim president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis

Declined to comment

, interim president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis Declined to comment Shelley Seifert , chairman and CEO of First Bank

Did not respond to a request for comment

, chairman and CEO of First Bank Did not respond to a request for comment Atul Sharma , former chief human resources officer for EthosEnergy

Did not respond to a request for comment

, former chief human resources officer for EthosEnergy Did not respond to a request for comment Charles Stucke , retired CEO of Lepercq de Neuflize Asset Management

Did not respond to requests for comment

, retired CEO of Lepercq de Neuflize Asset Management Did not respond to requests for comment Sumit Verma , chair of the board and senior vice president of Iovance Biotherapeutics

Did not respond to requests for comment

, chair of the board and senior vice president of Iovance Biotherapeutics Did not respond to requests for comment Beth Stroble, chancellor of Webster University

Julian Schuster, president of Webster University

Rick Meyer, treasurer of the board and CFO of Webster University

Jeanelle Wiley, assistant chancellor of Webster University
When she was around 22 weeks pregnant, the patient found out that the son she was carrying didnt have kidneys and his lungs wouldnt develop. If he survived the birth, he would struggle to breathe and die within hours.

The patient had a crushing decision to make: continue the pregnancy  which could be a risk to her health and her ability to have children in the future  or have an abortion.

I dont think I stopped crying for an entire two weeks, she said. The whole world felt heavy.  Its not something anybody should have to go through. Its not easy losing somebody you love.

KFF Health News is not disclosing the womans name or the name of the community where she lives, because she fears harm if her identity becomes known. She lives in Missouri, which has one of the strictest abortion bans in the nation. KFF Health News confirmed details of her experience.

After the fetal diagnosis, the patients Missouri doctors told her that her life wasnt in immediate danger, but they also pointed out the risks of carrying the pregnancy to term. And in her family, theres a history of hemorrhaging while giving birth. If she started to bleed, her doctors said, she might lose her uterus, too. The patient said this possibility was devastating. Shes a young mom who wants more children.

So she chose to get an abortion. Her Missouri doctors told her it was the safest option  but they wouldnt provide one.

The patient had to leave Missouri and cross the border to Illinois, which has become a legal haven for abortion rights. Because of her complicated pregnancy, she received the abortion in a hospital.

Since the Dobbs decision overturned Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022, determining who can get an abortion and where has been complicated by medically ambiguous language in new state laws that ban or restrict abortion. Doctors in those states fear they could lose their medical licenses or wind up in jail.

Amid these changes, physicians in abortion havens such as Illinois are stepping up to fill the void and provide care to as many patients as possible.

But getting each medically complex patient connected to a doctor and a hospital has been logistically complicated. In response to the growing demand, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, a Democrat, recently launched a state program with a goal to get patients who show up at clinics, yet need a higher level of abortion care, connected more quickly with Illinois hospitals. Providers will call a hotline to reach nurses who will handle the logistics.

There is little concrete data on how many more patients are traveling to other states for abortions at hospitals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tracks some abortion data regarding out-of-state patients but doesnt collect it based on the type of facility theyre performed in.

Hospitals are a black box for abortion-related data, according to Rachel Jones, a longtime researcher at the nonprofit Guttmacher Institute.

Even before Roe fell, it was hard to wade through the hospital bureaucracy to understand more comprehensively how abortion care was provided, Jones said. Guttmacher has tracked hospital-based abortions in the past but doesnt have updated figures since Dobbs.

#WeCount, widely considered a reliable tracker of shifts in abortion care over the past year, doesnt break out hospital data separately. #WeCount co-chair Ushma Upadhyay said the data would have gaps anyway. She said its been difficult to get providers in banned states to report whats happening.

The uncertainties behind life exceptions

All 15 states that ban abortions do allow exceptions to save the life of the pregnant person, according to tracking from the health policy nonprofit KFF. But exactly when the persons life is considered at risk is open to interpretation.

Its very, very difficult to get an exception, said Alina Salganicoff, director of womens health policy at KFF. Its like, How imminent is this threat? And in many cases, patients cant wait until theyre about to die before they get an abortion.

The latest ban  in Indiana  took effect at the end of August.

In 2020, when Roe was still the law of the land, only 3% of abortions typically occurred in hospitals. Now, OB-GYNs in Chicago and other places across the U.S. that protect abortion rights say out-of-state patients are increasingly showing up to get abortion care at hospitals.

Those more complex procedures and hospital stays often bring higher medical bills. More patients now need help covering the expensive price tag of the procedures, according to medical providers and abortion funds that provide financial assistance.

The patient from Missouri made her way to Laura Laursen, an OB-GYN at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, in May. The number of out-of-state abortions at Rush has quadrupled since Roe was overturned, Laursen said.

Laursen received the patients consent to discuss her case with NPR and KFF Health News. She recalled the patient was frustrated about having to jump through so many hoops to get the abortion, and stressed about the cost of being in a hospital.

The biggest thing was just making space for her to express those emotions, Laursen said. Making sure that she felt comfortable with all the decisions she was making. And trying to make her feel as empowered as possible.

The patients life wasnt immediately threatened, but it was safer for her to have an abortion than remain pregnant, Laursen said.

Im constantly hearing stories from my partners across the country of trying to figure out what counts as imminent danger, Laursen said. Were trying to prevent danger. Were not trying to get to the point where someones an emergency.

Sending patients over state lines for care

Jennifer McIntosh is an OB-GYN in Milwaukee who specializes in high-risk patients. Because of Wisconsins abortion ban, shes referring more patients out of state.

Its really awful, McIntosh said, recalling difficult conversations with patients who wanted to be pregnant, but whose babies faced dire outcomes.

She would tell them: Yes, its very reasonable to get an abortion. But oh, by the way, its illegal in your own state. So now on top of this terrible news, Im going to tell you that you have to figure out how to leave the state to get an abortion.

In some cases, McIntosh can provide an abortion if the medical risk is significant enough to satisfy Wisconsins life-of-the-mother exception. But it feels legally risky, she said.

Am I worried that someone might think that it doesnt satisfy that? McIntosh said. Absolutely, that terrifies me.

Jonah Fleishers phone is often ringing and buzzing with texts. An OB-GYN who specializes in abortion and contraception at the University of Illinois health system, near Rush hospital in Chicago, Fleisher is frequently asked to see how quickly he can squeeze in another patient from another state.

Since Roe fell, Fleisher estimated, the health system is treating at least three times as many patients who are traveling from other states for abortion care.

He worries about the invisible patients who live in states with abortion bans and never make it to his hospital. They may have medical problems that complicate their pregnancies yet dont know how to navigate the logistics required to make their way over state lines to his exam room, or dont have the financial resources.

I know that some number of those women are not going to make it through birth and postpartum, Fleisher said. More than the stress of somebody whos actually making it to see me, thats the thing that causes me more stress.

Medical costs, in addition to travel, are a big obstacle for high-risk patients seeking abortion care at hospitals. The patient from Missouri owed around $6,000 for her hospital stay, Laursen said. Her bill was covered by local and national abortion funds. Some hospital bills can reach into the tens of thousands of dollars for more complicated procedures, according to the funds.

The Chicago Abortion Fund pledged to cover just over $440,000 in hospital bills for 224 patients in the year following Dobbs, according to Meghan Daniel, CAFs director of services. Those bills were primarily for out-of-state patients. By comparison, in the year that preceded Dobbs, CAF helped cover just over $11,000 for 27 patients.

This increase in patients needing financial help for out-of-state abortion care is happening across the nation.

In many cases, patients have a hard time accessing abortion care, and the delays push them further into their pregnancies until they need to have the procedure in a hospital, said Melissa Fowler, chief program officer at the National Abortion Federation. And that costs much more.

Were seeing more cases right now [of] people who are later in gestation, Fowler said. More adolescents who are later in gestation, who are showing up at hospitals because this is really their last resort. Theyve been referred all over.

All of this raises questions about how long these funds can afford to help.

The current financial way in which people are paying for their abortions I fear is not sustainable, Fleisher said.

Nonprofit hospitals could help. In return for getting tax breaks, they have financial assistance policies for people who are uninsured or cant afford their medical bills. But the policy at UI Health in Chicago, for example, covers only Illinois residents. UI Health spokesperson Jackie Carey said that for other patients, including those who live in other states, the hospital offers discounts if they dont have insurance, or if their insurance wont pay.

Laursen argues out-of-state Medicaid plans and insurance companies should be picking up the tab.

Whose responsibility is this? she asked.

Not ready to let go

Back in Missouri, the patient has a special room dedicated to her son. She brought home a recording of his heartbeat and keeps his remains in a heart-shaped casket. She talks to her son, tells him how much she loves him.

Im just not ready to let him go, the patient said. Even though theyre not here on Earth anymore, you still see them in your dreams.

Shes working on healing emotionally and physically. And while shes thankful that she was able to travel to Illinois for care, the experience made her angry with her home state.

Theres a lot of good people out there who go through a lot of unfortunate situations like me who need abortion care, the patient said. To have that taken away by the government, it just doesnt feel right.

This article is from a partnership that includes WBEZ, NPR, and KFF Health News.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF  the independent source for health policy research, polling, and journalism. It was formerly known as Kaiser Health News.
JEFFERSON CITY  Gov. Mike Parsons decision to slash more than a half-billion dollars out of the state budget survived scrutiny from state legislators on Wednesday.

Meeting in their annual one-day fall session to consider whether to restore cuts made by the governor in July, the Senate did not take up 14 overrides approved by the House, leaving the governor with a spotless record when it comes to vetoes during his tenure.

Part of the equation came down to politics: Republicans who control the Legislature have been loath to shoot down actions by a chief executive of the same party.

The other piece of the puzzle focused on Parsons warning that his spending cuts were designed to ensure the state has a healthy financial bottom line as the economy cools in a post-pandemic world.

Sen. Lincoln Hough, R-Springfield, who chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee, said the votes werent there to override.

It kind of seems like an exercise in futility to me, Hough said as the Senate quickly adjourned without taking up the House changes.

The lack of action in the Senate was not a surprise.

Parson predicted last week the Senate would block the House efforts to override portions of his budget vetoes, arguing that his decisions will preserve revenue at a time when tax collections are beginning to flatten after three years of robust growth.

In the House, lawmakers voted to reverse Parsons veto of $13 million for the planning, design and construction of a police center in St. Louis.

State Rep. LaKeySha Bosley, D-St. Louis, led the push in the House to restore the police center funding.

She said the planned facility would allow city first responders and 911 dispatchers to work together in a single building, where child care will also be provided.

We talk about public safety and how imperative it is in order for us to support our police departments, Bosley said. This will do exactly that.

House lawmakers also voted to restore $28 million that Parson cut for improvements to Interstate 44 and a 20% pay increase for members of the Highway Patrol and Capitol Police.

They also signed off on reversing Parsons veto of $2 million for National Guard reenlistment incentives and $1.4 million for Missouri Task Force 1, an urban search and rescue team based in Boone County.

We respect the governor and his veto decisions, but we believe these items are necessary for the good of the state, and can have a long-lasting, positive impact, said House Speaker Dean Plocher, R-Des Peres.

Sen. Bill Eigel, R-Weldon Spring, who is running for governor, bemoaned the failure to override a $5 million veto of a drinking water improvement plan for St. Charles, which is grappling with contaminated wells.

I think the governor was punitive in his vetoes, Eigel said. Its frustrating to me.

The Senate also did not take up an override of a sweeping criminal justice measure vetoed by Parson. The governor nixed the package over one provision that would expand the qualifications for restitution from those who are exonerated for crimes they did not commit.

The veto meant a separate provision of Senate Bill 189, known as Blairs Law, also failed. The proposal, one of the few gun-related bills to make it to Parsons desk, is aimed at stopping the practice of people shooting bullets into the air, including on New Years Day, July Fourth and after other events.
ST. LOUIS  Early firefighting was as crude as fires were numerous. The city's first two volunteer companies were formed in 1818. An ordinance required property owners to keep leather fire buckets and one-story ladders. All young men who weren't slaves were supposed to help at fires.

Rival volunteer companies fought fires and each other, often in fistfights over the right to tap the few plugs in the city's limited water system. At a foundry fire on Broadway, companies shot at each other with water, then pistols.

Volunteers bravely fought the Great Fire of 1849, a firestorm that destroyed 23 steamboats and 15 blocks of downtown. But the shortcomings of street bravado and hand-pumped "engines" had become obvious. In 1854, city leaders looked toward Cincinnati, which had a better idea. Actually, two.

That city was the first to organize a fire department with paid personnel. It also built a steam fire engine, which could produce power within six minutes of lighting the furnace and throw more water farther than crank pumps. Mayor John How, in a ginger nod to the political power of volunteers, praised their service but warned of "defects that a proper payroll would remedy."

On Sept. 14, 1857, Henry Clay Sexton became St. Louis' first fire chief (formally, "chief engineer") at an annual salary of $1,000. He had 30 employees and three steam fire engines. Sexton got the job after the Mound Volunteer Fire Company, where he was chief, sold its engine and house at North Broadway and Brooklyn Street to the city for $250.

Some volunteer companies refused to quit. In August 1858, Sexton personally defended a plug with a heavy wrench, telling his covetous competitors, "Touch that plug and I'll break your heads."

One month later, city-paid firefighters celebrated their first anniversary with a robust parade. They marched along Washington Avenue in their black pantaloons, white shirts and waterproof hats. The engine companies, grown to seven, then faced off at Fifth and Pine streets to test their worth. The winner fired water 244 feet.

The next year, the last volunteer unit gave up.

Sexton was chief until Sept. 3, 1862, when Union soldiers threw him in the Gratiot Street Prison over his Southern sympathies. He got his job back in 1869 and served until 1885.

As the city grew in bounds, so did its fire department. In 1910, with the city population at 687,000, the department had 50 engines and 17 hook-and-ladder trucks, all drawn by teams of horses. The St. Louis Fire Department received its first motorized firetruck that same year and retired its last horse teams and steam-powered engines in a ceremony on March 25, 1927.

Read more stories from Tim O'Neil's Look Back series.
Following the second federal indictment charging former President Donald Trump with conspiring to overturn the 2020 election, Trump supporters claimed he truly believed Democrats stole the election from him. The belief, they asserted, justified his schemes to remain in power.

As many legal scholars argue, the defense does not necessarily exculpate Trump in a court of law if he criminally operationalized the false belief.

But just as importantly, Trumps defense fails in the court of public opinion. It doesnt argue a case as much as it exposes profound character flaws that should disqualify any person from holding high political office.

Trumps defense depicts him as immediately apprehending truth and therefore justified in ignoring advisors, courts, expert legal and political officials (including his own Attorney General), independent journalists, and the majority of the American people. The defense portrays Trump as brazenly going his way since only he (and a few cronies) comprehended what happened during the 2020 election and who won, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. The certainty of Trumps belief prohibited questions from his followers that might have undermined it.

Trumps defense is problematic because it discloses the dangerous character flaws the conservative political philosopher Eric Voegelin once associated with the leaders of 20th-century authoritarian movements. Such flaws undermine democratic leadership.

Voegelin, Austrian by birth, fled to the United States from Vienna in 1938 when Nazi forces annexed Austria. He spent his academic career at various American universities, including the prestigious Hoover Institution at Stanford University, a think tank supporting the U.S. Constitution, its Bill of Rights, and its method of representative government.

In the essay collection Science, Politics and Gnosticism, Voegelin showed how the ancient practice of Gnosticism pervaded 20th-century authoritarian movements. Voegelin explained how like Gnostics of old, fascists and totalitarians claimed that only they could comprehend the evils arrayed against them and purge societies of their ills. The beliefs of these leaders purportedly provided them with direct, immediate apprehension or visions of truth without the need for critical reflection. Thus, authoritarians claimed absolute mastery of reality and to possess knowledge immune from criticism.

As Voegelin pointed out, authoritarians who believed in their self-sufficiency suffered from delusions of grandeur, hubris, dogmatism, and complete disregard for established law and order and political traditions. He explained how, by demanding unflinching allegiance from their followers based on so-called unassailable beliefs, authoritarians could justify violence against dissenters.

The historian Bradley J. Birzer notes that, for Voegelin, the beliefs of authoritarians perverted our understanding not only of time and history but also of the human person.

Trumps defense and the belief upon which it rests reveal many of the dysfunctional character traits identified by Voegelin. As such, they also promote a corrupted view of time and history as processes that only Trump believes he can fathom and control. Hence Trumps claims to make America great again and Save America by any means necessary  including overturning elections.

Trumps belief and defense embrace degraded views of persons like him, with their paranoid, aggrieved, and insular worldviews (for him, seen as something heroic). And they denounce anyone who challenges him as cowardly, disloyal, and untrustworthy.

Trumps defense and belief explain why he traffics in bizarre deep state conspiracies. For Trump, conspiracies reveal the actual threats to America that only he can defeat.

More contemporary students of authoritarianism have provided terrifying accounts of Trumps authoritarian beliefs. Writing in The Washington Post just months before the 2016 presidential election, Anne Applebaum worried whether the possible election of Trump meant the end of the West as we know it? In the book Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, Ruth Ben-Ghiat cautions that Trumps beliefs are right out of the authoritarian playbook and that if reelected he will never leave office.

Most recently, in his analysis of a campaign speech Trump delivered in South Dakota, CNNs Stephen Collinson described how Trumps stark rhetoric raised the prospect of a second presidency that would be even more extreme and challenging to the rule of law than his first. His view that the Oval Office confers unfettered powers suggests Trump would indulge in similar conduct as that for which he is awaiting trial, including intimidating local officials in an alleged bid to overturn his 2020 defeat.

When faced with compelling evidence that overturns their beliefs, great democratic leaders admit what they believed to be true was wrong. The flawed character traits motivating Trumps defense prevent him from ever admitting to being wrong. This is part of a strongman ethos he thinks makes him appealing. But as Voegelin warns, Trumps belief and corresponding defense only demonstrate how unfit he is to hold political office ever again.
I am your retribution, Donald Trump told his followers earlier this year. And, while the former president technically has no role in the newly launched House impeachment inquiry against his once and probably future election opponent, that action is  make no mistake  all about fulfilling Trumps malicious vow.

This kangaroo court has been convened not because theres one molecule of evidence that President Joe Biden has done anything impeachable, but because Trumps movement demands it of his most zealous followers in the U.S. House and their hostage  er, speaker  Kevin McCarthy.

Though this is potentially the start of the third impeachment process America has seen in the past few years, its dangerous new ground.

Unlike the two impeachments during Trumps term, this inquiry is launched not in response to any actual evidence of wrongdoing, but in hopes of finding some. If thats the new standard, then every future president whose party doesnt control the House will govern under impeachment storm clouds.

McCarthy on Tuesday ordered three House committees to begin inquiries based primarily on the shady international business dealings of the presidents son, Hunter Biden, and the so-far baseless allegation that the elder Biden used his vice presidency to help him profit.

They will also explore the claim that the administration pulled strings to get Hunter Biden his now-defunct plea deal with the Justice Department.

Both issues are nonstarters. House Republicans earlier this year investigated for months seeking to tie the president to his sons sketchy business deals, yet were forced to issue a report in May acknowledging they found nothing.

And the plea deal the Justice Department offered Hunter Biden (before it collapsed) was engineered by a Trump-appointed special prosecutor who Biden kept on the job at the behest of Trumps supporters. If thats a conspiracy, its a pretty convoluted one.

None of these facts will matter to Trumps hardcore partisans, whose argument is simple: Tit, meet tat.

They are also immune to the irony of grasping at these ethical straws regarding Biden, while supporting an ex-president who openly profited from government business at his commercial properties throughout his term, and whose son-in-law leveraged his White House connections to raise billions in investments from the Saudis.

Even the flimsy case against Bill Clinton, impeached for lying about sex, was more solid than the case at hand  because he actually did lie (about sex).

Even those who claimed, straight-faced, that that merited Clintons removal from office would have a hard time saying the same about someone guilty of being a weak parent to a wayward son. Which is ultimately all that President Biden is apparently guilty of.

As the conservative commentator David French noted in The New York Times this week, the three previous presidential impeachment inquiries in modern times each began with concrete evidence of wrongdoing: Clintons DNA on a blue dress, Trumps phone call to Ukraines president demanding campaign help, and Trumps direction of a mob toward the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

[A]t the risk of sounding crass, French asks, where is the blue dress in the current House impeachment case against Biden?

There isnt one. The Republicans who are trying to pretend there is risk the same fate as Clintons persecutors, who lost their House majority because Americans saw right through their cynical stunt.

But the greater danger here is to the nations political stability. As of now, America is in an era of impeachment inquiries launched with no more justification than is found on your average campaign bumper sticker.
The Russian terrorist army continues to shell the Kherson region. On the night of September 14, the occupiers struck the village of Novodmitrivka.

ADVERTISIMENT

As a result of criminal actions of the Russians killed a 6-year-old child, a 13-year-old boy was injured. This was reported in the Office of the Prosecutor General (to see the photo, scroll to the end of the page).

Putin's terrorists shelled the village of Novodmitrivka in the Bilozerka community with artillery. The occupants committed the crime on September 14 after midnight.

Enemy shells hit a private house and its territory. As a result of the attack, a 6-year-old boy was killed. In addition, his 13-year-old brother was hospitalized in serious condition.

Three people from a neighbor's house who tried to help were also wounded, but also came under enemy fire. Private houses and outbuildings were damaged by the terrorists' artillery fire.

Prosecutors in cooperation with other law enforcers are fixing the consequences of the shelling. Under the procedural guidance of the Oleshki District Prosecutor's Office of Kherson region, an investigation was launched into the fact of violation of laws and customs of war, coupled with premeditated murder (part 2 of article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).

ADVERTISIMENT

We will remind, on September 13, Russian troops attacked the de-occupied part of Kherson region. The invaders struck with aerial bombs on the village in Tyaginka community of Berislav district, also attacked Otradokamyanka.

ADVERTISIMENT

Earlier it was reported that the occupiers hit Stanislav community of Kherson district. An outpatient clinic was damaged, two civilians were wounded.

As previously wrote OBOZREVATEL, in Kryvyi Rih in Dnipropetrovsk region on the morning of September 11, there were explosions during the air alert. The occupiers launched both drones and missiles on the city.

Only verified information from us in Telegram-channel Obozrevatel and in Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
St. Louis  SEPTEMBER 2023  The Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of St. Louis nonprofit organization is excited to welcome 25 new community members who completed a seven-week training course to become appointed volunteer advocates on Wednesday, September 6, at 9 a.m., at the St. Louis City Family Court located at 920 N. Vandeventer in St. Louis, Missouri. A virtual swearing-in will take place on Monday, September 11, at noon for those advocates unable to attend in-person. CASA of St. Louis, part of the National Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian Ad Litem program, recruits, trains and supports those interested in advocating for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Their advocacy enables judges to make the most well-informed decision for each child. CASA of St. Louis assists with cases in the 21st and 22nd Circuit Courts.

The newest class is the largest class to date for the program. Welcoming 25 new CASA volunteers means we will serve 30-50 children who have been waiting for a caring adult, an adult they can trust to speak up for them in court, at school, within their foster placement and in the community, said CASA of St. Louis Chief Executive Officer, Jennifer Howard. Once accepted into the program, volunteers complete hours of training which prepares them for different scenarios in their new role. This is a 30-hour training program that includes both independent study and facilitator led sessions to cover the following elements: Relevant State and Federal laws that govern child welfare practice, juvenile court process, family dynamics, communication and information gathering, cultural competency and advocacy, said CASA of St. Louis Chief Program Officer, Nickie Steinhoff.

The next training beginning in October, is expected to be another large class of community members. We anticipate 20 applicants in our next training session, said Steinhoff. The 2024 training is set to begin in early January.

CASA of St. Louis looks to continue increasing the number of advocates as there is an unfortunate increase with children in foster care. Our goal is to serve an ever-increasing number of children in foster care through effective and compassionate volunteer recruitment, training, and supervision, Howard said. This year we will serve at least 432 children in foster care and by June 2025 we plan to be serving at least 570 children through the advocacy of 395 CASA volunteers.

For more information about becoming a volunteer with CASA of St. Louis, visit www.stlcasa.org or call CASA of St. Louis Volunteer Recruitment & Outreach Manager, Schalene Houston-Butler at 314-282-7405. For interview requests, please contact Houston-Butler at shouston-butler@stlcasa.org or call 314-282-7405.

###

About CASA of St. Louis

The Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) of St. Louis was founded in 1980 under the guidance of the National Council of Jewish Women and later became its own 501c (3) non-profit organization. CASA of St. Louis trains community members to become advocates for children in foster care due to abuse and neglect. The non-profit organization receives cases in the 21st and 22nd Circuit Courts, advocating for children and youth from birth to age 20.

About the National Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian Ad Litem Association for Children

The National Court Appointed Special Advocate / Guardian Ad Litem (CASA/GAL) Association for Children, together with its nearly 950 state and local member programs, supports and promotes court-appointed volunteer advocacy so every abused or neglected child in the United States can be safe, have a permanent home and have the opportunity to thrive. The National CASA/GAL Association offers leadership and support to the network of programs and leads its continued growth. casaforchildren.org.

###
China believes that the Russian lack of progress in Ukraine is largely due to the failure of the Russian logistical system. The Ukrainian defenders went after Russian supply lines and that made it easier to destroy most of the Russian offensive forces. The Ukrainians did this from the beginning, attacking Russian supply convoys and leaving Russian combat forces stranded because of fuel and ammunition shortages. Russia underestimated the Ukrainian ability to take advantage of Russian efforts to remedy their logistics shortcomings, which were hampered by corruption in the military logistics bureaucracy. This was something Russian generals could only complain about because they could not fix it. Some Russian leaders realized the logistical risks but could not get needed support from senior political leaders to do anything about it.

This assessment by the Chinese has them reviewing their own logistical plans for an attack on Taiwan. China can get troops onto the island but their supply arrangements are less certain to succeed if the Taiwanese forces concentrate on the Chinese supply ships. Many of these supply ships are civilian vessels, including RO/RO (roll on/roll off) ships and ferries. China has conducted some exercises testing the ability of these ships to travel the necessary distance, but did not include any Taiwanese efforts to destroy the ships. As history regularly demonstrates, the enemy has the ability to respond and the Taiwanese have missiles and satellite targeting support from their American allies to find and destroy Chinese seaborne supply efforts. The Chinese strategy is to win quickly and then declare peace. This was the Russian plan in Ukraine, where Russian supplies were moved over roads and rail lines as well as by ships in the Black Sea. The Ukrainians attacked or disrupted these supply efforts sufficiently to leave many Russian troops in Ukraine without enough food, ammunition, fuel or even food. And they still dont.

Ukraine continues to concentrate on Russian logistics, using long range missiles and GPS guided aircraft bombs to destroy Russian supplies that have been stockpiled for troops to use. Russia responded by moving the stockpiled supplies farther from the front lines and, when possible, storing them in underground bunkers. Such bunkers are great in theory but in practice there are not many of these bunkers and supply stockpiles often end up out in the open, on pallets and covered by tarps. Ukraine tends to find these locations quickly and attack them. Ukrainian sabotage teams operate in Russian territory to disrupt railroad movement by damaging railroad signals and communications systems. This makes the railroads less reliable and often leads to accidents that derail supply trains and block further use of that line until the wreckage is removed and the rails repaired. Ukraine has even been able to get operatives deep inside Russia to damage the Trans-Siberian Railroad, which is currently used to move weapons and munitions from North Korea to Ukraine.

These sustained attacks on Russian logistics have been a major reason for the failure of Russian forces in Ukraine. China fears Taiwan plans to do the same to Chinese invasion forces, who are even more vulnerable because they must come by sea.
Israel recently ordered another 25 F-35s. Israel already has fifty, organized into two squadrons. With the new aircraft there will be three squadrons. Israel was the first export customer to receive F-35s because it was the only exports customer that was regularly involved in combat, including air-strikes. Israel was also the only export customer allowed to modify and upgrade their F-35s. For this reason, the Israeli aircraft is known as the F-35I. The United States initially opposed Israeli requests to carry out modifications and upgrades, but the Israelis had a record of doing this with F-16s and F-15s obtained from the United States so F-35 manufacturer Lockheed Martin agreed to cooperate by making some modifications to the F-35Is before Israel received them. These included changes in command, control, communications systems, including computers, and the integration of intelligence collection, electronic warfare, and weapons integration systems. Israel agreed to not change anything inside the aircraft, but was free to add capabilities on top of the existing infrastructure. Israel Aerospace Industries, for example, was already working on such systems for the F-35I. The F-35I was designed to allow updates to Electronic Warfare and weapons integration systems. F-35I power and cooling systems were modified to allow incorporation of Israeli developed weapons. Israel has developed its own air-to-air missiles and GPS guided bombs.

Since 2021 there have been a lot more joint exercises involving Israeli and foreign F-35s. Details of these exercises have not been publicized but it apparently involves testing current and new F-35 capabilities and sharing that knowledge with other F-35 users. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022 a lot of European nations sought to obtain F-35s while canceling plans to buy older models of American and European combat aircraft. Ukraines ability to defeat the larger Russian air force, using Ukraines own Russian-designed aircraft, made it clear that the Ukrainian tactics carried out with F-35s would provide an enormous edge over air forces equipped with older aircraft. Even China has not yet produced a stealth aircraft as capable as the F-35 and now NATO nations with F-35s realize they have a substantial edge and have shared that knowledge with other NATO countries.

Israel demonstrated what the F-35 was capable of in 2019 when Israel had only 14 F-35I fighters and some had been operational for over a year. These F-35Is flew training missions near the Syrian border and then operational missions over Lebanon and Syria. This comes after years of overcoming opposition from the United States to allowing Israel to modify the F-35A to use Israeli electronic warfare equipment and software, and also to handle Israeli-made missiles and smart bombs as well as a smart helmet, which was something Israel pioneered. This led to the Israeli aircraft being designated the F-35I, which have been in the air since 2018, often armed and within range of hostile radars and anti-aircraft missiles as well as the latest Russian electronic warfare equipment.

Israeli engineers also confirmed fears that the F-35 is eminently hackable. Other foreign users who have received their first F-35s agree that the heart of the F-35's superior capabilities are its software and digital communications with other aircraft and troops on the ground. Users are pointing out all manner of potential network vulnerabilities, and all are actively seeking which of these vulnerabilities are actual (and fixable) rather than potential and unlikely. F-35 software was designed over a decade ago when much less was known about how combat aircraft software could be hacked and already some basic changes in F-35 software architecture are being planned to deal with that.

This brings up another major problem. The F-35 software is more complex and omnipresent throughout the aircraft than in any previous warplane. Its a major effort to carry out and test any changes. Some major upgrades are needed in how F-35 software changes are made and how quickly. In wartime this would be essential, as otherwise vulnerable aircraft would be grounded when needed most. Foreign users have also provided useful advice on penetration (red team) testing and have become another major effort that was not anticipated.

The U.S. and other foreign users of the F-35 noted Israels F-35I experience and the Israelis have increasingly been sharing it with allies. Israel got priority on deliveries because they are literally a combat zone. Initial reactions of Israeli F-35I pilots and air force commanders were positive. What the Israeli pilots and all others who have flown the F-35 agree on is that its software and degree of automation is spectacular, easy to use and very effective. The F-35 has a large number of sensors, as in receivers for electronic signals, as well as six cameras and a very capable radar. The fusion of all that data and presentation to the pilot based on the current situation is impressive and makes the F-35 much easier to fly, despite all the additional capabilities it has.

Israel has become something of an unofficial member of NATO and is sharing a lot of its F-35I knowledge with NATO nations. Israel not only has to deal with Russian aircraft and electronic systems in Syria but an even more dangerous threat from Iran. Israel has established diplomatic and defense relationships with Arab countries who are also threatened by Iran. That made it possible for Israel to establish diplomatic relations with some Arab Gulf States and that led to Americans' willingness to sell F-35s to the UAE (United Arab Emirates).
by Austin Bay September 13, 2023

Vladimir Putin's war on Ukraine is a desperate bid to assemble a 21st-century Russian Empire. It is also an oil war -- or more accurately, a war to steal Ukraine's energy reserves.

The czarist and Soviet communist Russian empires were largely self-sufficient entities possessing the resources and millions of people required to field powerful military forces. However, when the USSR collapsed, the Kremlin's empire lost about half of its population and significant food and energy resources.

Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and Kazakhstan (RUBK is my acronym) has the geostrategic resources to secure global Great Power status. I think that geopolitical configuration has been Putin's goal since 2004.

Russia and Kazakhstan are energy powers. Ukraine, however, is the key RUBK puzzle piece: a Slavic population, world-class food production (especially grains) and, yes, energy resources, as in coal, oil and natural gas.

Think back three decades. Recall the anti-American critics who claimed combating Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein's invasion of Kuwait was imperialist propaganda camouflage for seizing oil fields on behalf of Western oil companies? Blood for oil. Wailing crackpots made that indictment until, oh, 2009, when Barack Obama became president.

In 2023 Iraq's government once again controls its oil and gas fields.

Yet Putin's Kremlin escapes criticism for waging war to steal resources.

Facts say Putin is guilty of the charge. Ukraine has the world's sixth largest hard coal reserves. In the West radical climatistas damn the use of coal -- coal kills Mother Earth. A check of accurate coal utilization and pollution statistics shows tyrannical Russia and China burn coal by the polluting tons and jail critics. One wonders if they don't fund the climatistas.

As for Ukraine: Ukraine's most significant coal reserves are in the Donbas region (Donetsk Coal Basin). That's eastern Ukraine -- which Russia claims as ethnic Russian territory and now bitterly defends.

Will climate radicals accuse Russia of spilling blood for coal? We know they won't. But right now, Russia spills blood defending the coal fields its invading forces seized.

Blood for oil: Ukraine has oil and gas reserves in the Dnieper-Donetsk Basin. Indeed, these Russian occupied zones are valuable energy real estate.

Ukraine has offshore Black Sea oil and gas production and the offshore fields may be quite large. One estimate from five years ago said the Ukrainian Black Sea shelf may contain over two trillion cubic meters of natural gas.

However, about 65% of the Ukraine's gas fields in its Black Sea Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) lies off the Crimean coast.

Blood for gas: The Kremlin invaded Crimea and illegally annexed it in 2014.

Worldwide, numerous diplomats and elite commentators argue that in order to obtain a peace agreement Ukraine should let Russian keep Crimea.

That simplistic peace formula fails to address the resource theft component of Putin's war.

If recent reports of Ukrainian Black Sea operations are accurate, in August and September 2023 Ukraine began operations to contest Russia's illegal occupation of its Black Sea EEZ.

Several media sources reported Ukrainian special forces have recaptured at least four offshore Black Sea oil and gas platforms seized by Russia. The most interesting reports came from the Offshore Oil and Gas magazine and OGV Energy website (a British energy news site).

Ukrainian forces in a series of small special forces actions seized several offshore platforms. Two were in a field 70 kilometers south of the port of Odessa -- the Petro Godovalets (aka B312) and Ukraine (B319). Two others, the Tavrida, and Syvash drilling platforms, were apparently anchored closer to the Crimean coast.

Russia had equipped all four platforms with helipads, radars and electronic reconnaissance equipment. No, they aren't drilling or producing, but Russia can no longer use them. They have become forward operations bases for Ukraine -- perhaps for drone boat attacks on Sevastopol.

The Ukrainian offshore attacks impress me as being very similar to March 2003 operations conducted by U.S. Navy SEALS when they seized Iraq's Al Basrah Oil Terminal's (ABOT) and Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAAOT) oil terminals in the northern Persian Gulf.

I visited ABOT in 2005. The bullet holes and shrapnel scars on its mazelike metal catwalks gave the terminal a post-apocalyptic feel.
Students from the leading automotive, diesel and collision trade school received 10% of the overall awards given to trade school students in the U.S.

LARAMIE, WY / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Sixteen WyoTech students were awarded the Mike Rowe Work Ethic scholarship from the Mike Rowe Foundation. WyoTech students received nearly 10% of the overall awards given to trade-school-going students across the nation.









WyoTech supports its students through education and financial assistance by offering up opportunities with the Mike Rowe Foundation, an organization renowned for its dedication to the trade industry.

"WyoTech and the Mike Rowe Foundation share a common mission in bringing awareness to the value of trades education," said Jim Mathis, president and CEO of WyoTech. "For many years, WyoTech students have been beneficiaries of the Mike Rowe scholarships, who display characteristics that are in alignment with the mission of the Mike Rowe Foundation."

WyoTech's impact on the trade industry has grown over the last five years, supported by the tremendous work of Mike Rowe himself in driving awareness to the jobs that move the American economy forward, as well as the work done by his Foundation. It is part of WyoTech's ongoing commitment to creating robust pathways within the trade industry, a sector often overlooked in its potential to offer prosperous careers.

"Over the last five years, WyoTech has gained tremendous momentum in the industry and is building an aggressive movement of driving the right students to the trades. We strive to showcase tremendous value for prosperity that has been underrated and undervalued for too many years," said Mathis.

WyoTech's aligned mission with the Mike Rowe Foundation underscores the tech school's dedication to fostering tangible growth and prosperity in the trade industry. WyoTech is proud to advertise these scholarship opportunities to symbolize the positive traction within trade education and careers.

For more information on WyoTech, visit https://www.wyotech.edu.

About WyoTech

WyoTech, formerly known as Wyoming Technical Institute, is a for-profit technical college founded in Laramie, Wyoming, in 1966. WyoTech provides training programs that prepare students for careers as technicians in the automotive and diesel industry with nine-month training programs that focus on hands-on experience.

Contact Information

Mike Albanese

[email protected]

Related Images

SOURCE: WyoTech

View source version on accesswire.com:
New farm is the company's largest, most advanced, and most productive

HAMILTON, OH / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / This week, 80 Acres Farms opened its largest, most advanced, and most productive farm, a 200,000-square-foot facility in Boone County, Kentucky.



Founders Mike Zelkind and Tisha Livingston, joined by employees and special guests, open the farm

Positioned to serve customers across multiple states and markets, the farm can grow up to forty million servings of produce per year, using the company's proprietary hardware and software solutions to operate more efficiently than ever before. The farm is about three times the size of the company's previous largest farm and at least four times as productive.

"There is nothing like this anywhere else in the world," said Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear during a preview tour on Tuesday. "I am so proud that this level of technology, where advanced manufacturing meets farming is right here in Kentucky."

Built inside a former printing facility, the farm is a $95 million investment in Kentucky that will create 125 jobs in the state. With this opening, 80 Acres Farms will be able to reach many more restaurants and retailers, including the approximately 700 new Kroger stores announced last month. The farm will also support the company's new grab-and-go salad kits.

"To support our expansion into new markets and new products, we need more capacity," said 80 Acres Farms CEO and co-founder Mike Zelkind. "That said, this is a lot more than just capacity. This is our most efficient farm yet, allowing us to keep improving our unit economics and keep growing this company sustainably."

The farm runs on 80 Acres Farms' proprietary Loop platform, developed by the company's tech-focused subsidiary, Infinite Acres. Encompassing crop management software, algorithms, environmental controls, robotics, and automation, Loop is supported by partnerships with leading international technology companies.

"It's exciting to witness the growth of 80 Acres Farms," said Ruth Gratzke, President of Siemens Smart Infrastructure USA, who spoke at the farm's grand opening on Wednesday. "Siemens is a proud supplier of both hardware and software solutions at the farm. We are looking forward to helping 80 Acres Farms expand even further across the U.S. and the world, making their goal of worldwide food security a reality."

With the completion of the Kentucky farm, 80 Acres Farms' construction team can turn its attention to Georgia, where the company will open another 200,000-square-foot farm in 2024.

About 80 Acres Farms

80 Acres Farms, a vertical farming leader based in Hamilton, Ohio, operates indoor farms built with world-class technology and analytics by the company's tech-focused subsidiary, Infinite Acres. 80 Acres Farms grows and delivers a variety of pesticide-free harvests that last longer at home and exceed the highest standards in food safety. Consumers can find the company's greens, herbs, fruits, and vegetables at retailers including Kroger, Whole Foods, and The Fresh Market, and foodservice distributors including Sysco and US Foods.

Contact Information:

Jed Portman

Communications Manager

[email protected]

8434122863

Related Images

Founders Mike Zelkind and Tisha Livingston, joined by employees and special guests, open the farm Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear visits the farm

SOURCE: 80 Acres Farms

View source version on accesswire.com:
Customers can seamlessly integrate on-premises and cloud storage, eliminating bottlenecks, increasing efficiency, cost savings while opening doors to new business opportunities

CENTURY CITY, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Ateliere Creative Technologies , a leading developer of cloud-native media supply chain solutions and a 2023 " IDC Innovator ," has announced a partnership with media application integration specialists, qibb , to support hybrid storage workflows across the media supply chain. Ateliere's cloud-native media supply chain workflows and open API seamlessly integrate with qibb's media workflow connectors, ensuring the swift automatic transfer of local files to the cloud and vice versa. This collaboration unlocks a world of possibilities for Ateliere Connect customers who want to retain their on-premises operation while leveraging the benefits of the cloud, maintaining a cohesive workflow without the need for bespoke integrations in the process.

"This partnership is not just about technology; it's about delivering value. Support for hybrid workflows is critical for us as we work to make our solutions more accessible to businesses who are not yet fully operating in the cloud," says Ateliere CEO Dan Goman. "Our partnership with qibb extends our offerings to companies that store and heavily leverage content on on-premises storage yet want the added benefits that the cloud provides."

The highly efficient and flexible media ecosystem resolves deficient orchestration and workflow management challenges for working on premise and in the cloud. Customers with large on-premise storage pools can now easily design cloud workflows based on business needs as opposed to technical workarounds.

"At qibb, we're experts at making media applications work together smoothly. Ateliere is a great example to show how we can connect to services outside of our Node Catalog," says Roman Holzhause, qibb Chief Technology Officer. "Via our community-based GraphQL connector, all Ateliere objects, events, job creation and workflow progress become available. This allows integrating Ateliere seamlessly with more than 100 third-party applications in the qibb catalog - including leading media applications and cutting-edge AI solutions. Together, we will ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction by enabling customized workflows and automations."

About the Ateliere - qibb Integration

qibb's compatibility with Ateliere's GraphQL API and media system integrations enable easy workflows with Ateliere's low-code environment. All objects, events, job creation and workflow progress are available via the API, allowing third-party applications like qibb to operate or react with custom behavior.

Connect with Ateliere to learn how their hybrid workflow capabilities power modern media supply chains: https://www.ateliere.com/company/contact-us .

Book a Meeting with Ateliere at IBC2023

The IBC2023 show will be held at the RAI Convention Center in Amsterdam from September 15th through September 18th. Attendees can book a private meeting with an Ateliere expert or sales professional to discuss their media supply chain and streaming needs and how Ateliere solutions can help. To request a day and time, visit https://www.ateliere.com/events/ibc-show-2023 .

Press Briefings at IBC2023

Members of the press are invited to connect with Ateliere for a private demonstration on stand 5.B63. Press attending the show can book a media briefing at the booth or schedule a virtual briefing before the show through [email protected].

About qibb

qibb enables future-proof media solutions and makes integration of professional media workflows easy. qibb is the pioneering integration platform to create and maintain low-code media workflows along the digital media supply chain. A community-driven ecosystem of adapters (nodes) and pre-integrations (flows) flanked by a versatile feature toolkit makes virtualized systems integration a reality. With qibb it is possible to integrate several apps into automated workflows - all on one cloud platform. The integration platform is developed by experienced digital and media experts at the tech company Techtriq.

www.qibb.com

About Ateliere

Ateliere Creative Technologies is a leading cloud-native media supply chain company that empowers media companies and content creators to reach consumers on a global scale. The Ateliere suite of SaaS solutions incorporates cutting-edge workflows and formats to make the vision for a studio in the cloud a reality. The nucleus of the Ateliere platform, Ateliere Connect", delivers core competencies in IMF, parallel scaling, and geographically distributed workflows. Ateliere is built by a team of experts with decades of combined experience at companies such as Amazon, HBO, Netflix, and Microsoft.

Find out more at https://www.ateliere.com , and follow us on X ( @TeamAteliere ), Instagram ( @AteliereTech ), LinkedIn ( https://www.linkedin.com/company/ateliere-creative-technologies/ ), and Facebook ( @AteliereCreativeTechnologies ).

Media Contact:

Kristin Canders

Grithaus Agency

[email protected]

+1 (207) 974-7744

SOURCE: Ateliere

View source version on accesswire.com:
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Avino Silver & Gold Mines Ltd. (TSX:ASM)(NYSE American:ASM)(FSE:GV6) ("Avino" or "the Company") releases the results of four drill holes from below Level 17, the current deepest workings at the Elena Tolosa ("ET") Area of the Avino system. In July of this year, the Company reported the best drill intercept in the Company's history with a step-out drill hole in the same area. These latest deep step-out holes test the SW extent of the robust Avino vein and one infill hole was drilled to confirm local continuity. The current drilling follows the continuity of the steeply dipping mineralization and aids in understanding the deep source of the mineralization. Avino has enlisted a number of world-renowned consulting geologists to contribute to the geological understanding of the mineralization characteristics. The known depth extent to date of at least 750 metres of mineralization is significant and is unusual in comparison with most Mexican epithermal deposits.

Selected Intercept Highlights:

Hole ET 23-13: 0.70 % Cu, 31 Ag g/t and 0.21 Au g/t over 44.40 metres true width including 1.10 % Cu, 42 Ag g/t and 0.58 Au g/t over 9.85 metres true width





0.70 % Cu, 31 Ag g/t and 0.21 Au g/t over 44.40 metres true width Hole ET 23-10: 0.39 % Cu, 36 Ag g/t and 0.07 Au g/t over 27.15 metres true width including 0.47 % Cu, 59 Ag g/t g and 0.09 Au g/t over 13.2 metres true width

0.39 % Cu, 36 Ag g/t and 0.07 Au g/t over 27.15 metres true width

Details are shown in the table and images below.

"We are excited to report that we hit substantial widths at grades well above our current cutoff grade on all four drill holes as we look to define the mineralization limits at depth," said David Wolfin, President and CEO. "In addition, we have continued to define the hanging wall breccia which is an offshoot of the main Avino Vein that originates from surface. The access to this breccia is relatively easy through existing development works and we are currently evaluating a mine plan to incorporate these resources into our near to medium term plans. We were also surprised with an intersection of a stock work vein close to surface which indicates the complex and distributed nature of the stockwork system that accompanies the thick, main Avino vein. We will take these results and incorporate them into the next phase of our exploration plans."

Avino is developing a geological model based on a "near porphyry" environment because of the increasing copper grades with depth. The persistence of silver and copper grade continuity from surface down a plunge distance of over 1,100 metres with increasing copper grades supports the possibility of a deeper mineralized system which may be linked to a porphyry centre.

Geological modelling is ongoing to determine the potential geometry and controls of the mineralization. Avino has completed its planned and budgeted drilling program for the year by drilling 7,545 metres in 13 drill holes. The team of geologists on site are working through the recommendations made by the structural geologists to further study the potential of the entire ore body. The 2023 results will be further reviewed to determine exploration plans and budget for 2024.

Below Level 17

Four holes totalling 2,040 meters, were drilled below Level 17 in this drill campaign. They were completed to investigate the continuity of mineralization in the central part of the ET Area of Avino system. All four holes intercepted mineralization within the vein and stockwork that have silver equivalent grades above the current cut off grade in the latest mineral resource estimate. The results are reported below in Table 1 .

Vein-type mineralization and stockwork containing silver, gold and copper have been found along the contacts between intrusive rocks and an andesite unit. This provides opportunities within the ET Area for the identification and delineation of additional mineral resources that remain open on strike and dip (see Figure 1 for the projections of the resource relative to the drilled holes). This recent drilling confirms that mineralization persists to the west along strike at depth and that there is potential for high silver and gold grades associated with the increasing copper grades that have been drilled at depth.

Table 1 - Summary Drill Results

1. AgEq in drill results above assumes $1,850/ oz Au and $22.00 oz/ Ag, and $4.00/ lb Cu, and 100% metallurgical recovery

2. STW = Stockwork Veins, HX BX = Hanging wall Breccia

Figure 1 -Longitudinal view of the Avino Vein showing the drill hole locations and a projection of the mineralization in red.

Figure 2 -Longitudinal view of the Avino Vein showing the drill hole locations and the block model in AgEq.

Figure 3 -Cross-Section of ET-23-13 showing the substantial width of the Avino vein at the drill hole intersection.

Geological Description

The Property contains numerous low-sulphidation epithermal veins (including the Avino vein), breccias, stockworks, and silicified zones that grade into a possible "near porphyry" environment within a large caldera setting. This caldera has been uplifted by regional north-trending block faulting (a graben structure) exposing a window of andesitic pyroclastic rocks of a lower volcanic sequence within this caldera. The lower volcanic sequence is overlain by an upper volcanic sequence consisting of rhyolite to trachyte lava flows and extensive ignimbrites. The direction of the increasing copper grade plunges steeply towards the east in the Avino vein. The changing tenor of the mineralization could be reflecting a transition from epithermal to porphyry-style mineralization.

Sampling and Assay Methods

Following detailed geological and geotechnical logging, selected drill core areas were cut in half. One half of the core was submitted to the SGS Laboratory facility in Durango, Mexico, and the other half was retained on-site for verification and reference. Gold is assayed by fire assay with an AA finish. Any samples exceeding 3.0 gold grams/tonne are re-assayed and followed by a gravimetric finish. Multi-element analyses are also completed for each sample by SGS ICP14B methods. Any copper values exceeding 10,000 ppm (1%) are assayed using ICP 90Q. Silver is fire assayed with a gravimetric finish for samples assaying over 100 grams/tonne. Avino uses a series of standard reference materials, blank reference materials, and duplicates as part of their QA/QC program during assaying.

Qualified Person(s)

Avino's projects in Durango, Mexico are under the geoscientific oversight of Michael F. O'Brien, P.Geo., Senior Principal Consultant, Red Pennant Communications, and under the supervision of Peter Latta, P.Eng, Avino's VP, Technical Services, who are both qualified persons within the context of NI 43-101. Both have reviewed and approved the technical data in this news release.

About Avino

Avino is a silver producer from its wholly owned Avino Mine near Durango, Mexico. The Company's silver and gold production remains unhedged. The Company's mission and strategy is to create shareholder value through its focus on profitable organic growth at the historic Avino Property and the strategic acquisition of the La Preciosa property. Avino currently controls mineral resources, as per NI 43-101, that total 368 million silver equivalent ounces, within our district-scale land package. We are committed to managing all business activities in a safe, environmentally responsible and cost-effective manner, while contributing to the well-being of the communities in which we operate.

We encourage you to connect with us on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @Avino and on LinkedIn at Avino Silver & Gold Mines. To view the Avino Mine VRIFY tour, please click here .

Note: All Avino Silver & Gold Mines Ltd. drill results are detailed in separate news releases and these releases are available on our website at www.avino.com and on our SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com

On Behalf of the Board

"David Wolfin"

________________________________

David Wolfin

President & CEO

Avino Silver & Gold Mines Ltd.

This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (together, the "forward looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws and the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including the mineral resource estimate for the Company's Avino Property, including La Preciosa, located near Durango in west-central Mexico (the "Avino Property") with an effective date of November 30, 2022, prepared for the Company, and references to Measured, Indicated, Inferred Resources referred to in this press release. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and the dates of technical reports, as applicable. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, as there can be no assurance that the future circumstances, outcomes or results anticipated in or implied by such forward-looking statements will occur or that plans, intentions or expectations upon which the forward-looking statements are based will occur. While we have based these forward-looking statements on our expectations about future events as at the date that such statements were prepared, the statements are not a guarantee that such future events will occur and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors which could cause events or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors and assumptions include, among others, the effects of general economic conditions, the price of gold, silver and copper, changing foreign exchange rates and actions by government authorities, uncertainties associated with legal proceedings and negotiations and misjudgments in the course of preparing forward-looking information. In addition, there are known and unknown risk factors which could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Known risk factors include risks associated with project development; the need for additional financing; operational risks associated with mining and mineral processing; the COVID-19 pandemic; volatility in the global financial markets; fluctuations in metal prices; title matters; uncertainties and risks related to carrying on business in foreign countries; environmental liability claims and insurance; reliance on key personnel; the potential for conflicts of interest among certain of our officers, directors or promoters with certain other projects; the absence of dividends; currency fluctuations; competition; dilution; the volatility of the our common share price and volume; tax consequences to U.S. investors; and other risks and uncertainties. Although we have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. We are under no obligation to update or alter any forward-looking statements except as required under applicable securities laws. For more detailed information regarding the Company including its risk factors, investors are directed to the Company's Annual Report on Form 40-F and other periodic reports that its files with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

SOURCE: Avino Silver & Gold Mines Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:
Freedom Libraries, conceived by Reginald Dwayne Betts, former prisoner-turned-acclaimed-poet, open at maximum security facility in Warren, Maine

NEW HAVEN, CT / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Today, the national non-profit Freedom Reads opened 17 Freedom Libraries in Maine State Prison (MSP), a maximum-security facility located in Warren, ME. The Freedom Libraries will be placed in each of the facilities' cellblocks for unfettered access to the curated collection. One of MSP's 17 Freedom Libraries will be dedicated to staff use. These openings mark an ongoing partnership with the Maine Department of Corrections, which was one of the first Departments of Corrections to welcome partnering with Freedom Reads.

The brainchild of 2021 MacArthur Fellow and Yale Law School graduate Reginald Dwayne Betts, who was sentenced to nine years in prison at age 16, the Freedom Libraries seek to create a space to encourage community and where reaching for a book can be as spontaneous as human curiosity. Each bookshelf is handcrafted out of maple, walnut or cherry and is curved to contrast straight lines and bars of prisons as well as to evoke Martin Luther King Jr.'s line about the "arc of the universe" bending "toward justice."

Betts' nonprofit is a first-of-its-kind organization that empowers people through literature to imagine new possibilities for their lives. Books in the Freedom Library have been carefully curated through consultations with hundreds of poets, novelists, philosophers, teachers, friends, and voracious readers, resulting in a collection of books that are not only beloved but indispensable. The libraries include contemporary poets, novelists, and essayists alongside classic works from Homer's The Odyssey to the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, titles that remind us that the book has long been a freedom project.

"For many, access to literature opens up the opportunity for imagining a better tomorrow. We are grateful to the Maine Department of Corrections for allowing us to offer that opportunity to those incarcerated in their facilities," said Reginald Dwayne Betts, Founder and CEO of Freedom Reads. "With the opening of these Freedom Libraries at Maine State Prison, we are fostering the type of creativity and hope that we believe can transform the lives of those incarcerated. It is our hope that the legacy of these libraries is seen every day in the lives of those impacted by them."

"The Maine Department of Corrections is happy to have these beautiful libraries at Maine's largest correctional facility," said Anthony Cantillo, Deputy Commissioner for the Maine Department of Corrections. "With 17 libraries being placed in the facility, it is sure to bring great conversations and warmth. We at the Maine DOC are grateful for the opportunity to receive these libraries once again and look forward to other meaningful opportunities from Freedom Reads!"

About Freedom Reads:

Founded by Reginald Dwayne Betts, who knows firsthand the dispiriting forces of prison, Freedom Reads works to empower people through literature to confront what prison does to the spirit. Supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and inspired by the recognition that freedom begins with a book, Freedom Reads supports the efforts of people in prison to transform their lives through increased access to books and writers. For more information about Freedom Reads and the Freedom Libraries project, please visit https://freedomreads.org/.

#

Contact Information

Megan Stencel

Account Executive

[email protected]

7034908845

SOURCE: Freedom Reads

View source version on accesswire.com:
Leading ed-tech company, Interstride, introduces Interstride for Admissions, a groundbreaking platform designed to assist universities in attracting and engaging prospective international students. The inaugural partners in this exciting endeavor include Claremont McKenna College, Franklin & Marshall University, East Tennessee State University, and California Baptist University.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / In a significant stride toward advancing international student recruitment efforts, Interstride has officially launched Interstride for Admissions. This interactive admissions portal promises to transform how universities connect with international applicants.

Interstride for Admissions

Interstride for Admissions

This interactive admissions portal helps higher-ed institutions engage international prospective students with the ultimate goal of increasing international student enrollment.

"International students possess unique needs and inquiries when selecting the right academic institution and embarking on their international education journey," said Nitin Agrawal, CEO and co-founder of Interstride. "Our cutting-edge portal is strategically designed to empower international admissions teams to demystify the intricacies of the U.S. education system, guide prospective students through the admissions processes, and illuminate the distinctive qualities of their respective institutions."

Key features of Interstride for Admissions include:

Tailored Resources: Universities can offer resources tailored to the international prospects' needs, all in one place. This includes topics such as researching schools and programs, navigating visas and finances, learning about life in the U.S., and employment outcomes.

Universities can offer resources tailored to the international prospects' needs, all in one place. This includes topics such as researching schools and programs, navigating visas and finances, learning about life in the U.S., and employment outcomes. Peer-to-Peer Engagement: Prospective students can connect directly with international students, alumni, and staff members through peer-to-peer chat and groups.

Prospective students can connect directly with international students, alumni, and staff members through peer-to-peer chat and groups. Data-Driven Insights: Admissions and enrollment leaders can monitor and measure key engagement insights and the effectiveness of their marketing strategies.

Caleb Bennett, Director of International Enrollment and Services at East Tennessee State University, expressed his excitement. "We're thrilled to offer new avenues for prospective students to connect with our thriving community of current international students. I am confident that this platform will significantly boost engagement and play a pivotal role in achieving our enrollment targets."

Jennifer Hirsch, Senior Associate Dean of International Admission at Claremont McKenna College, emphasized the value of connecting prospective students with current peers. "Interstride provides an accessible and efficient way to facilitate these connections, particularly for smaller admission teams. It can greatly enhance the personal connections we make with students and parents around the world."

This portal launch aligns with the ongoing surge in international enrollment in the United States, intensifying competition among universities seeking to tap into this growing market. Interstride for Admissions empowers admissions teams to stand out by providing unparalleled support to international prospects while capturing essential data throughout the admissions journey.

To explore Interstride for Admissions, visit: www.interstride.com/admissions

About Interstride

Interstride is at the forefront of educational technology, empowering higher education institutions with the tools they need to attract, engage, and support international students. Currently partnered with over 200 institutions nationwide, Interstride offers an end-to-end suite of solutions that guide international students from the college admissions process to post-education life.

For media inquiries, contact:

Judy Chen

Partnerships Manager, Interstride

[email protected]

Contact Information

Judy Chen

Partnerships Manager

[email protected]

(415) 529-6495

SOURCE: Interstride

View source version on accesswire.com:
Ukrainian pilots have been allowed to test-fly Gripen fighter jets in Sweden. According to Defense Minister Paul Johnson, Sweden does not rule out transferring these aircraft to the Ukrainian army.

ADVERTISIMENT

The pilots have undergone test training, which includes test flights both on the aircraft and on a simulator, the Sveriges Radio newspaper reported.

According to the head of the Swedish Defense Ministry, the ground personnel were also briefed on the operation and maintenance of Gripen fighters.

Johnson said that the experience of test training should become the basis for finding out whether there are conditions for sending Gripen aircraft to Ukraine. At the same time, the Defense Minister added that he did not rule out sending the fighters to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

The news is being updated...


TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 13, 2023 / Jaguar Mining Inc. ("Jaguar" or the "Company") (TSX:JAG)(OTCQX:JAGGF) is pleased to announce the successful closing of its previously announced acquisition (the "Transaction") of the Pitangui Project and the remaining interest in the Acurui Project from a subsidiary of IAMGOLD Corporation (NYSE: IAG) (TSX: IMG) ("IAMGOLD"), AGEM Ltd. (the "Vendor").

As consideration for acquiring a 100% interest in the Pitangui Project and the Vendor's interest in the Acurui Project, the Company issued 6,331,713 common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Consideration Shares"), having an aggregate value of USD$9 million based on the volume weighted average closing price per share for the thirty (30) calendar days preceding the date of the definitive agreement for the Transaction, which was CAD$1.873 per share. The Vendor has agreed to hold and to not transfer or trade the Consideration Shares for a period of twelve (12) months following the closing date of the Transaction, subject to certain conditions. In addition, the Vendor has agreed to notify and inform Jaguar if the Vendor intends to sell all or any of the Consideration Shares.

In connection with the Transaction, the Company also granted to the Vendor a net smelter returns royalty. For additional information regarding this royalty, please see the Company's press release dated August 2, 2023, which is available for review under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.com).

Vern Baker, President and CEO of Jaguar, stated: "We are very pleased to have completed this transaction to purchase IAMGOLD's Brazilian assets. The transaction increases our resource base and furthers our corporate strategy to leverage our extensive existing infrastructure to drive production growth through increased plant throughput. Going forward, our plan is to focus on permitting the Pitangui Project and move it into development as quickly as is possible. The Acurui Project complements our Paciencia property and will be considered a part of the exploration and development package we have available to restart production at Paciencia in the future."

The Iron Quadrangle

The Iron Quadrangle has been an area of mineral exploration dating back to the 16th century. The discovery in 1699-1701 of gold contaminated with iron and platinum-group metals in the southeastern corner of the Iron Quadrangle gave rise to the name of the town Ouro Preto (Black Gold). The Iron Quadrangle contains world-class multi-million-ounce gold deposits such as Morro Velho, Cuiab and Sao Bento. Jaguar holds the third largest gold land position in the Iron Quadrangle with over 50,000 hectares.

About Jaguar Mining Inc.

Jaguar Mining Inc. is a Canadian-listed junior gold mining, development and exploration company operating in Brazil with three gold mining complexes and a large land package with significant upside exploration potential from mineral claims. The Company's principal operating assets are located in the Iron Quadrangle, a prolific greenstone belt in the state of Minas Gerais and include the Turmalina Gold Mine Complex and Caete Mining Complex (Pilar and Roca Grande Mines, and Caete Plant). The Company also owns the Paciencia Gold Mine Complex, which has been on care and maintenance since 2012. The Roca Grande Mine has been on temporary care and maintenance since April 2019. Additional information is available on the Company's website at www.jaguarmining.com.

For further information please contact:

Vernon Baker

Chief Executive Officer

Jaguar Mining Inc.

[email protected]

416-847-1854

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's expectations and plans relating to the future. All of the forward-looking information made in this news release is qualified by the cautionary statements below and those made in our other filings with the securities regulators in Canada. Forward-looking information contained in forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "are expected," "is forecast," "is targeted," "approximately," "plans," "anticipates," "projects," "anticipates," "continue," "estimate," "believe" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may," "could," "would," "might," or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, may be considered to be or include forward-looking information. This news release contains forward-looking information regarding, among other things, the Company's plans and expectations for the Pitangui Project and the Acurui Project, the ability of Jaguar to successfully integrate the acquired assets from the Transaction and realize anticipated benefits therefrom, and the expected impact of the Transaction on the Company and its business and corporate strategy. The Company has made numerous assumptions with respect to forward-looking information contained herein, including, among other things, the Company's ability to obtain the final acceptance of the TSX for the Transaction and the issuance of the Consideration Shares in connection therewith.

Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including receipt of necessary approvals, risks inherent in the mining industry and the other risks described in the public disclosure of the Company which is available under the profile of the Company on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, including without limitation, the Company's most recent Annual Information Form and Management's Discussion and Analysis. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

The forward-looking information set forth herein reflects the Company's reasonable expectations as at the date of this news release and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

THE TSX HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.

SOURCE: Jaguar Mining Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:
INDIANAPOLIS, IN / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / The KeyBank Foundation has awarded Indianapolis Neighborhood Housing Partnership (INHP) a $300,000 grant to continue its efforts to create or preserve affordable housing opportunities near Indianapolis transit lines as part of the city's first Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) program. Through this program, INHP acquires and holds properties within a half mile of IndyGo's 15-minute frequency routes to give developers time to prepare optimal site plans that will offer affordable housing for families earning low and moderate incomes.

The funding will support costs to maintain and hold the properties in this land bank. Since 2018, INHP has acquired 17 ETOD properties and has sold seven to developers as it works to reach its goal of providing 1,000 affordable units to Indianapolis residents.

"INHP is grateful for KeyBank's generous support as a partner in the ETOD program," said Gina Miller, president and CEO of INHP. "These funds will allow us to sustain this strategy and achieve positive outcomes for the people and neighborhoods we serve."

Studies show Indianapolis' families spend an average of 46 percent of their income on housing and transportation. Through the ETOD program, INHP is promoting housing choice and affordability while also providing access to jobs, education, healthcare, food and cultural amenities - all needed for economic mobility.

"INHP plays a pivotal role in the Indianapolis community connecting people to the necessary resources for affordable housing," said Juan Gonzalez, KeyBank's Central Indiana Market President. "Key is incredibly proud to support INHP and follow through on our commitment to help the organizations and residents we serve thrive. This partnership will not only strengthen our community, but it will provide equitable access to jobs, education, healthcare and more."

Since 2017, Key has made community investments totaling more than $930 million in Central Indiana which supports low to moderate income individuals and neighborhoods through lending for affordable housing, small businesses, mortgage and transformative philanthropy.

Group (L to R): Abigail Lane (director, community and development, Englewood Community Development Corporation), Gina Miller (president and CEO, INHP), Yvonne Harrington, Juan Gonzalez, Charlie Mercer (director of community lending, INHP)

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from KeyBank on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: KeyBank

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/keybank

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE: KeyBank

View source version on accesswire.com:
Fourteen Foods, led by CEO Matt Frauenshuh, has partnered with the charity Folds of Honor to raise scholarship funds for the families of fallen and disabled military members.

FRANKLIN, TN / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Matt Frauenshuh, the visionary CEO of Fourteen Foods, is proud to announce the kickoff of a charitable campaign aimed at supporting Folds of Honor, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing educational scholarships to the families of fallen and disabled veterans. The campaign commenced on Sept. 1, 2023, and promises to make a profound impact on the families of those who have sacrificed so much for our nation.



Matt Frauenshuh at the Folds of Honor event





At the heart of this campaign lies a deep commitment to giving back to those who have served and protected the United States. The funds raised for Folds of Honor enable the organization to provide scholarships to the children and spouses of fallen or disabled service members. These scholarships empower the recipients to pursue their educational dreams and build a brighter future.

Fourteen Foods is excited to partner with country music hitmakers Parmalee, known for their heartfelt music and generosity, to engage communities nationwide in this meaningful cause. The synergy of this partnership amplifies their shared commitment to giving back and honoring the sacrifices made by fallen heroes. Matt Frauenshuh, a dedicated leader with a strong sense of purpose, believes in the power of community and the duty to support those who have made incredible sacrifices for our freedom.

"We are deeply committed to supporting Folds of Honor and the incredible work they do," says Frauenshuh. "Our hope is to honor the bravery and sacrifice of our veterans by providing educational opportunities for their loved ones. We believe that education is a powerful tool for shaping a better tomorrow, and we are proud to be part of this noble cause."

Folds of Honor is a non-profit organization that provides educational scholarships to the families of fallen and disabled service members. Their mission is to honor their sacrifice by empowering the spouses and children they leave behind through education.

Fourteen Foods was established in 2002 and owns and operates more than 240 DQ Grill & Chill braziers and restaurants in 13 states. The company is the largest franchisee for the corporation. Matt Frauenshuh joined the family business in 2006 when seven stores comprised the company. Matt now leads the multi-owner company as Chief Executive Officer. Matt received his undergraduate degree in business economics from St. Olaf College and continued at the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management, where he received his MBA.

###

For more news and information about Fourteen Foods, please visit their website https://fourteenfoods.net/.

For more information about Matt Frauenshuh, please visit LinkedIn.

XXX



Contact Information

Media Relations

[email protected]

SOURCE: Fourteen Foods

View source version on accesswire.com:
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / CNH Industrial

New Holland Agriculture, a brand of CNH Industrial, recently attended the 31st Aapresid Congress, the Argentine Association of Producers in Direct Sowing, which took place at the Metropolitan Convention Center of Rosario, Santa Fe, from August 9 to 11.

The motto of the 31st Aapresid Congress was "C, element of life", in reference to Carbon and the importance of improving soils to fight climate change. With this, New Holland took the opportunity to present the T6 Methane Power tractor, which has been recently acclaimed for its performance and sustainable design.

"It is a pleasure for us to participate in this renowned Congress that is synonymous with innovation and technology, representing attributes for our brand. The T6 Methane Power tractor features the latest technology and is powered by nature itself. In this way, we include our customers in the challenge of producing more and in an increasingly sustainable way," said Toms Liceda, Commercial Director of New Holland Argentina.

With the T6 Methane Power tractor, the reductions in matter emissions exceed 90% and achieve a reduction of up to 80% of CO2 compared to a diesel tractor, maintaining the same performance as a similar conventional one. By using biomethane, the carbon footprint of rural property can reach zero. With this, CNH Industrial is proud to showcase its T6 Methane Power tractor as a symbol for its strong commitment to sustainability.

During the event, the brand participated in a panel focused on the bioeconomy.





View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from CNH Industrial on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: CNH Industrial

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/cnh-industrial

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE: CNH Industrial

View source version on accesswire.com:
The European Alliance to Save Energy (EU-ASE) welcomes Owens Corning as a key partner to advance energy efficiency and contribute to a more sustainable Europe.

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / The European Alliance to Save Energy is delighted to announce that Owens Corning, a global building and construction materials leader, mainly known in Europe for its insulation (PAROC, FOAMGLAS, Pittsburgh Corning) and composites businesses (Owens Corning Composite Materials), is joining EU-ASE as its newest member.

Owens Corning has a long history of developing innovative, energy-saving solutions, and collaborating with a broad range of stakeholders to drive excellence and best practices in the field of material innovation and energy efficiency.

Monica Frassoni, President of the European Alliance to Save Energy (EU-ASE), said: "We are very happy to welcome Owens Corning as a member of the European Alliance to Save Energy. As a multinational company known for its innovative and forward-looking solutions, Owens Corning is a great match with our ambition to promote the energy efficiency agenda on a European level. We look forward to drawing from their global experience and working on this agenda together."

Federica Rizzo, Regulatory and Sustainability Senior Counsel European Region at Owens Corning commented: "Owens Corning is honored to join the European Alliance to Save Energy (EU-ASE). This is an exciting opportunity to strengthen our partnerships with key stakeholders and continue to build a sustainable future through material innovation. We are committed to the European Green Deal objectives and will continue to share best practices and knowledge across industries on key sustainability topics, such as energy efficiency, sustainability, and digitalization, while contributing to the green transition in Europe."

Media contact: Luigi Petito

Head of Secretariat

[email protected]

About The European Alliance to Save Energy (EU-ASE)

The European Alliance to Save Energy (EU-ASE) is a cross-sectoral, business-led organisation that ensures that the voice of energy efficiency is heard across Europe. EU-ASE members have operations across the 27 Member States of the European Union, employ over 340.000 people in Europe and have an aggregated annual turnover of 115 billion.

About Owens Corning

Owens Corning is a global building and construction materials leader committed to building a sustainable future through material innovation. Our three integrated businesses - Composites, Insulation, and Roofing - provide durable, sustainable, energy-efficient solutions that leverage our unique material science, manufacturing, and market knowledge to help our customers win and grow. We are global in scope, human in scale with approximately 19,000 employees in 31 countries dedicated to generating value for our customers and shareholders and making a difference in the communities where we work and live. Founded in 1938 and based in Toledo, Ohio, USA, Owens Corning posted 2022 sales of $9.8 billion. For more information, visit www.owenscorning.com.



View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Owens Corning on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Owens Corning

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/owens-corning

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE: Owens Corning

View source version on accesswire.com:
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Signal Gold Inc. ("Signal Gold" or the "Company") (TSX:SGNL) (OTCQX:SGNLF) is pleased to announce that it has commenced a 2,700-line kilometre airborne magnetic and very low frequency electromagnetic ("VLF") survey over its extensive land position in the Goldboro Gold District in Nova Scotia, which includes the Goldboro Project ("Goldboro", or the "Project"). The airborne survey is designed to cover the entirety of the Company's recently expanded land position comprising approximately 19,450 hectares (194.5 km2) of prospective mineral exploration licences and in particular will test the 28-kilometre strike length along the Upper Seal Harbour Anticline (the "Goldboro Trend") and the 23-kilometre strike length along the Lower Seal Harbour Anticline (the "Seal Harbour Trend") (Exhibit A). The survey is being completed by Terraquest Ltd. and comprises high-resolution aeromagnetics, horizontal gradiometer and matrix digital VLF electromagnetics. The survey will be flown at 100 metre north-south line spacing with one (1) kilometre tie lines.

"We are pleased to commence regional exploration initiatives over the extensive land package we consolidated in the Goldboro Gold District, an important first step in exploring over 51 kilometres of prospective strike length along the Goldboro and Seal Harbour Trends. Previous magnetic and VLF surveys have successfully outlined alteration and associated gold mineralization along a 3.5-kilometre section of the Goldboro Trend that hosts the Goldboro Deposit and the historic Dolliver Mountain Gold Mine*. We look forward to the targets generated by this regional airborne survey marking the first step towards the discovery of other satellite deposits. There is an opportunity to leverage the planned mine and mill infrastructure at Goldboro with additional discovery, supporting a long-lived central milling complex to service the Goldboro Gold District."

~ Kevin Bullock, President and CEO, Signal Gold Inc.

Compilation of historic geophysical data by the Company indicates that VLF forms a distinct, linear conductive-high response was closely aligned with the hinge of the host anticline along the Goldboro Trend, including the host structure of the Goldboro Deposit. The Company has used this historic data, in conjunction with recent ground Induced Polarization (IP) surveys, to construct a robust model for regional exploration targeting. This model has proved successful in our recent drilling west of the current resource model and towards the past producing Dolliver Mountain Gold Mine* where multiple gold bearing quartz veins have been intersected.

Exhibit A: A map showing the extent of am ~2,700 line kilometre airborne magnetic and VLF survey over the ~19,450 hectare Goldboro Gold Project and the trace of the Goldboro and Seal Harbour Trends.

*Operations began at the Dolliver Mountain Gold Mine in 1901 and the operation ceased in 1904.

The exploration program was partially funded under MRDF Shared Funding Exploration Grant (MRDF-2023-SF-11). The Company wishes to thank the Government of Nova Scotia for the partial funding of the airborne program.

This news release has been reviewed and approved by Paul McNeill, P. Geo., VP Exploration with Signal Gold Inc., a "Qualified Person", under National Instrument 43-101 Standard for Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

ABOUT SIGNAL GOLD

Signal Gold is advancing the Goldboro Gold Project in Nova Scotia, a significant growth project subject to a positive Feasibility Study which demonstrates an approximately 11-year open pit life of mine ("LOM") with average gold production of 100,000 ounces per annum and an average diluted grade of 2.26 grams per tonne gold. (Please see the NI 43-101 Technical Report and Feasibility Study for the Goldboro Gold Project, Eastern Goldfields District, Nova Scotia' on January 11, 2022, for further details). On August 3, 2022, the Goldboro Project received its environmental assessment approval from the Nova Scotia Minister of Environment and Climate Change, a significant regulatory milestone which enables the Company to commence site-specific permitting processes including the Industrial Approval and Crown Land Lease and Mining Lease applications. The Goldboro Project also has potential for further Mineral Resource expansion, particularly towards the west along strike and at depth. A future study will consider upgrading and expanding potentially mineable underground Mineral Resources as part of the longer-term mine development plan.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:

Signal Gold Inc.

Kevin Bullock

President and CEO

(647) 388-1842

[email protected] Reseau ProMarket Inc.

Dany Cenac Robert

Investor Relations

(514) 722-2276 x456

[email protected]

SOURCE: Signal Gold Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:
Bank of America (BoA) reiterated their Buy rating on Salesforce (NYSE: CRM) with a 12-month price target of $280.00 after ...

I'm a New Customer

I'm a Returning Customer

E-mail Address (or username, if registered via mobile device)

Password
Goldman Sachs analyst Kash Rangan revealed in a note on Thursday that after attending a recent investor conference, the firm ...

I'm a New Customer

I'm a Returning Customer

E-mail Address (or username, if registered via mobile device)

Password
DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AECOM (NYSE: ACM), the worlds trusted infrastructure consulting firm, today announced its appointment as Lead Designer for the Lone Star Constructors joint venture, which has been selected by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to manage the design, delivery, and maintenance of the I-35 Northeast Expansion (NEX) South Project in Bexar County, Texas. The project consists of four miles of non-tolled improvements along I-35 from I-410 South to I-410 North that will help relieve congestion along the corridor while improving safety, accessibility, and operational efficiency.

We are proud to extend our relationship with the Texas Department of Transportation on this important project that will provide the transportation infrastructure needed to support the dynamic San Antonio and Austin regions, said Lara Poloni, AECOMs president. Our teams will deploy their unrivalled technical expertise and local knowledge to complete these ambitious improvements, expanding our record of delivering transformative transportation projects across Texas.

AECOM will design and deliver three elevated express lanes along I-35 in each direction, consisting of two elevated general purpose lanes and one HOV lane. Work will include direct connectors at the I-410 South interchange and connection to elevated lanes and direct connectors at the I-410 North interchange, currently under construction. To execute this work, AECOM will seek participation of minority- and women-owned business throughout the project, contributing to a stronger, more equitable regional industry and economy.

We are excited to develop an innovative solution for this major transportation project that prioritizes the efficient use of existing transportation facilities, said Mark Southwell, chief executive of AECOMs global Transportation business. The expansion of Interstate 35 will help improve the quality of life of current and future residents while supporting job creation and further attracting businesses to the rapidly growing area.

The I-35 NEX South Project is the second phase of the larger three-part I-35 NEX project that will expand approximately 19.5 miles from I-410 South to San Antonios FM 1103. Once completed, the full project will add elevated and additional lanes on the highway to improve mobility and congestion and complement the economic development and growth in the region.

About AECOM

AECOM (NYSE: ACM) is the worlds trusted infrastructure consulting firm, delivering professional services throughout the project lifecycle  from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. On projects spanning transportation, buildings, water, new energy and the environment, our public- and private-sector clients trust us to solve their most complex challenges. Our teams are driven by a common purpose to deliver a better world through our unrivaled technical and digital expertise, a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion, and a commitment to environmental, social and governance priorities. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm and its Professional Services business had revenue of US$13.1 billion in fiscal year 2022. See how we are delivering sustainable legacies for generations to come at aecom.com and @AECOM.

Forward-Looking Statements

All statements in this communication other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements for purposes of federal and state securities laws, including any statements of the plans, strategies and objectives for future operations, profitability, strategic value creation, risk profile and investment strategies, and any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance, and the expected financial and operational results of AECOM. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results could differ materially from those projected or assumed in any of our forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results, performance and achievements, or industry results to differ materially from estimates or projections contained in our forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the following: our business is cyclical and vulnerable to economic downturns and client spending reductions; limited control over operations that run through our joint venture entities; liability for misconduct by our employees or consultants; failure to comply with laws or regulations applicable to our business; maintaining adequate surety and financial capacity; potential high leverage and inability to service our debt and guarantees; ability to continue payment of dividends; exposure to political and economic risks in different countries, including tariffs; currency exchange rate and interest fluctuations; retaining and recruiting key technical and management personnel; legal claims; inadequate insurance coverage; environmental law compliance and adequate nuclear indemnification; unexpected adjustments and cancellations related to our backlog; partners and third parties who may fail to satisfy their legal obligations; AECOM Capital real estate development projects; managing pension cost; cybersecurity issues, IT outages and data privacy; risks associated with the expected benefits and costs of the sale of our Management Services and self-perform at-risk civil infrastructure, power construction and oil and gas construction businesses, including the risk that any contingent purchase price adjustments from those transactions could be unfavorable and result in lower aggregate cash proceeds and any future proceeds owed to us under those transactions could be lower than we expect; as well as other additional risks and factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements set forth in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof. We do not intend, and undertake no obligation, to update any forward-looking statement.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914507644/en/

Media:

Brendan Ranson-Walsh

Senior Vice President, Global Communications

1.213.996.2367

[email protected]

Investor:

Will Gabrielski

Senior Vice President, Finance, Treasurer

1.213.593.8208

[email protected]

Source: AECOM
BOWLING GREEN, Ky.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AESC, a global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-performance batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage systems, along with Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, helped place the last piece of structural steel on its 1.6 million square foot facility in Bowling Green today. This Topping Out ceremony marks a significant milestone in AESCs progress toward completing its state-of-the-art gigafactory in the Kentucky Transpark in Bowling Green, Warren County. The 30 GWh plant will create 2,000 new, skilled jobs for the region, producing battery cells and modules to power next-generation EVs produced for multiple global automotive manufacturers.

Today we celebrated another step forward for AESC in Bowling Green  the second largest economic investment in Kentuckys history, set to create 2,000 full-time jobs. Our commonwealth is now a national leader in electric vehicle battery production, and AESC has been central to that success, Gov. Beshear said. I am grateful to this companys leadership for betting on Kentucky and for bringing this transformational project to Warren County.

AESCs Bowling Green operation is one of the largest economic development projects in Kentuckys history and further establishes AESC as a leader in the automotive industry of the future. The company will produce new generation battery cells that provide 30% more energy density than the current generation, leading to reduced charging time and increased range and efficiency for EVs. The Bowling Green operation is expected to power up to 300,000 vehicles annually by 2027.

AESC is honored to celebrate with the Bowling Green community and the entire state of Kentucky as we complete the construction of our new state-of-the-art gigafactory, said AESC U.S. Managing Director Jeff Deaton. We could not have reached this tremendous achievement without our partnerships with state and local leaders and the talented teams across the region. We are confident that this gigafactory will not only strengthen local economies by creating thousands of new competitive clean energy jobs but also advance Kentuckys position at the forefront of the fast-growing and global EV industry.

AESCs new gigafactory enhances our globally diversified structure and production footprint around the world. It represents an important achievement in our strategy to strengthen our footprint in the U.S. as we drive innovation and supply chain development of battery production to make electric vehicles more affordable and accessible for the growing U.S. market, Deaton added. By uniting Warren Countys talented leadership and strong local communities with our advanced technology, we are creating the next generation of battery solutions to meet the increasing demand for more energy-efficient electric vehicles across the globe. We look forward to our continued collaboration as we work closely to unlock the vast potential of this exciting project together.

AESCs Bowling Green factory is on track for an early 2025 opening. AESC is implementing high-tech capabilities to increase the cost-competitiveness and technological sophistication of EV batteries produced here, which will make electric vehicles more accessible and affordable for American motorists. The gigafactory will be powered by 100% renewable energy, supplied by onsite generation and purchased locally from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).

It is a monumental day for AESC and for our region as AESCs gigafactory is the largest single investment our community has ever seen, said Warren Country Judge-Executive Doug Gorman. Seeing the facility come to life is incredible. The economic impact of this project over the next decade is $20 billion to our local economy.

We are thrilled that AESC chose Bowling Green as their home in Kentucky and are so excited to see the progress toward being online, said Bowling Green Mayor Todd Alcott. This facility will create amazing opportunities for 2,000 of our residents and we cant wait to celebrate the opening with them.

Today, as we mark a pivotal milestone with the second largest economic investment in Kentuckys history, it is paramount to acknowledge the tremendous collaboration and dedication that has been at the forefront of this transformative project. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to the Governor for fostering a fertile ground for innovation and growth. We also extend our thanks to the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House, leadership from both the Senate and House, our devoted local legislative delegation, and the broader economic development team, who have been a cornerstone in shaping this endeavor, and of course to AESC for choosing Bowling Green as the home for their groundbreaking gigafactory. This journey has been a testament to what we can accomplish when unity, dedication, and expertise converge. Thank you, to each one who played a part in this monumental journey," said Ron Bunch, President, and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce.

Year to date, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce has announced six economic development projects in South Central Kentucky, totaling $61.1 million in capital investment and creating 311 new jobs in the region. Bowling Green has also been recognized as one of the Top 6 Tier 2 Metros in the United States for its tenth consecutive year by Site Selection Magazine. The Chamber is a three-time Mac Conway Award winner, recognizing the Chamber as a Top 20 Economic Development Organization in the Country.

About AESC:

AESC is a global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-performance batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage systems. The Companys leading-edge technology and reliability are enabling and accelerating the transition to clean energy solutions. Through rapid expansion, AESC batteries will soon power more than 1,000,000 million electric vehicles for the worlds top automakers.

AESC is creating the only stand-alone, pure-play business focused exclusively on advanced battery technologies. Incorporated and headquartered in Japan, the Company has a globally diversified management team, ownership structure and production footprint with major facilities in the U.S., U.K., France, Spain, China and Japan.

About South Central Kentucky Economic Development:

South Central Kentucky Economic Development is an entity of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, a nationally ranked 5-Star Accredited Chamber. Located at the center of a 34-state distribution area in the eastern United States, South Central Kentucky is a prime location for manufacturing and distribution facilities. South Central Kentucky is within a days drive of 60% of the nation's population, personal income, and manufacturing business establishments. Bowling Green ranks second in the United States for best manufacturing city. In the past decade, the region has captured over four billion in capital investment, creating thousands of jobs within the region. To learn more please visit https://www.southcentralky.com/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914965231/en/

MEDIA CONTACTS:

For AESC:

Simone Leung

212-521-4813

[email protected]

For South Central Kentucky Economic Development:

Ron Bunch

President & CEO

270-901-4602

[email protected]

Source: AESC
Egypt condemned in the strongest terms Israels airstrike Tuesday on Gazas Jabalia refugee camp that left hundreds of Palestinians dead or injured as a flagrant violation of international law, according to a statement by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
New collaboration will provide military families with tools, resources and support to help them thrive in their new neighborhoods

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Nextdoor (NYSE: KIND) and Blue Star Families (BSF), the nation's largest grass-roots military family support organization, announced a partnership to help military families engage, integrate, and enjoy their local neighborhoods after a move. This ongoing collaboration kicks off today at nextdoor.com/militarymovers, a new hub for new-to-the-neighborhood families to connect with the vital resources, go-to places, and welcoming people that turn a new address into a neighborhood to call home.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914063989/en/

Blue Star Families and Nextdoor Partner to Welcome Military Families on the Move (Graphic: Business Wire)

Each year, 600,000 military families move and these families move, on average, every two to three years. From the logistics of moving one household and settling into a new one, to enrolling in school and establishing roots, military families experience the challenges of moving three times more frequently than the average American family. Through this partnership, military families can now visit nextdoor.com/militarymovers for a direct line to the local information critical to getting acquainted with a community. With locals only lists of beloved small businesses, service providers and key tools and resources, this hub helps families quickly settle into their new neighborhoods.

While we assume these families are supported by a tight knit community, more than 70% of military families live off base in civilian areas and do not feel a sense of belonging to their neighbors and neighborhoods, said Heidi Andersen, Head of Revenue and Marketing at Nextdoor. Through this partnership, were providing these families with a powerful connection point to their new neighborhoods, right as they get settled in. From advice on the best coffee shop or sourcing a handyman, to offering must-have household items in the For Sale & Free hub, neighbors on Nextdoor are eager to welcome these important members of the community and give them the helping hand they need.

As a military spouse of 18 years, I can attest that while military families are experts at the details and coordination of a move, once the final box is unpacked, the challenges of feeling at home in a new community do not get easier, said Leah Love, Associate Director of Community Impact at Blue Star Families. Partnering with Nextdoor to create this one-of-a-kind Military Movers kit provides a crucial doorway for our military families to navigate their new surroundings and get the most out of their new neighborhoods.

To further highlight the challenges faced when moving to a new community, today Nextdoor joins Blue Star Families for a special roundtable event on Capitol Hill. Later this month, Nextdoor will support Blue Star Families annual Blue Star Welcome Week, by encouraging neighbors on the platform to support newcomers to the community by sharing their favorite local gems, hotspots and go-to businesses. This annual initiative from Blue Star Families is a nationwide campaign to build a better sense of belonging and community for everyone. For more information about Blue Star Welcome Week or to learn more about how to get involved, visit bluestarwelcomeweek.org.

About Nextdoor

Nextdoor (NYSE: KIND) is the neighborhood network. Neighbors, businesses of all sizes, and public agencies in more than 310,000 neighborhoods across 11 countries turn to Nextdoor to connect to the neighborhoods that matter to them so that they can thrive. As a purpose-driven company, Nextdoor leverages innovative technology to cultivate a kinder world where everyone has a neighborhood they can rely on  both online and in the real world. Download the app or join the neighborhood at nextdoor.com. For more information and assets, visit nextdoor.com/newsroom.

About Blue Star Families

Blue Star Families is the nations largest grass-roots military family support organization, with a mission to support military families to improve military readiness. Its distinctive approach builds stronger communities around military families through knowledge and programs that address the unique needs of those who serve. Blue Star Families nationally recognized surveys and analysis give military families an important voice that informs policymakers and its military family programs. It uses the power of its collective resources and cross-sector collaborations to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of thousands of members of military families to strengthen the troops, their families, and our nation as a whole. For more information, visit bluestarfam.org.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914063989/en/

[email protected]

Source: Nextdoor Holdings, Inc.
With the launch of Calix SmartBiz in the United Kingdom, altnets like Connexin finally have an all-in-one solution designed specifically for small businesses, packaging reliable managed Wi-Fi, robust network security, and business productivity applications on top of high-speed internet access

SAN JOSE, Calif. & LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Calix, Inc. (NYSE: CALX) today announced that Calix SmartBiz is available in the United Kingdom (UK). Now, alternative service providers (altnets) can expand their markets with a managed service purpose-built to meet the specific needs of the 5.5 million small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the UK. SmartBiz on the Calix broadband platform integrates everything altnets need to support SME growth in their communitiesmanaged Wi-Fi (indoor and outdoor), network security, and business productivity applications on top of high-speed internet access.

Until now, altnets have not had a single broadband solution built for the specific needs of SMEs. They were left to choose between repurposing residential products or scaling down complex and expensive enterprise-grade solutions to address the SME market. SmartBiz gives altnets a turnkey offering that enables them to open additional revenue streams and expand their subscriber base as they race to compete in crowded broadband markets.

SmartBiz is composed of SmartBizWorx productivity software and the CommandWorx mobile app. CommandWorx is integrated with award-winning Calix Wi-Fi systems and Calix Support Cloud to enable self-service access to SmartBiz and its features. Small business owners can monitor and manage SmartBiz from anywhere with one easy-to-use app built for their needs. Additionally, a customisable customer Wi-Fi portal allows them to offer convenient, secure internet access while building brand loyalty.

SmartBiz also gives small business owners:

Dedicated networks to maximise productivity. With network access control, SmartBiz offers out-of-the-box, dedicated primary, staff, point-of-sale, and customer networks. Every user has appropriate access to the network resources they need, improving role efficiency and driving higher productivity.

With network access control, SmartBiz offers out-of-the-box, dedicated primary, staff, point-of-sale, and customer networks. Every user has appropriate access to the network resources they need, improving role efficiency and driving higher productivity. Robust network-level security to prevent cyberattacks. SmartBiz delivers robust security capabilities to protect staff, customers, and critical business infrastructure from cyberattacks, in addition to network-specific, customisable content restrictions.

SmartBiz delivers robust security capabilities to protect staff, customers, and critical business infrastructure from cyberattacks, in addition to network-specific, customisable content restrictions. Network resilience to keep small businesses up and running. Network outages can be catastrophic for SMEsa single hour of downtime can cost nearly 20,000. Network resiliency offers automatic cellular failover, ensuring that SMEs stay up and runningand productiveno matter what.

The launch of SmartBiz in the UK is a game changer  SMEs have been waiting for a solution that offers features previously only available to large enterprises, said Furqan Alamgir, chief executive officer at Connexin. In 2022, more than half (54 percent) of SMEs in the UK experienced cyberattacks, marking a 15 percent increase from 2020. SmartBiz extends the security and managed broadband experiences we deliver to our residential customers (with Calix Revenue EDGE) to address the specific security needs of SMEs, powering us to expand our presence in the market by delivering a service that goes beyond basic connectivity. Critical features like mobile backup for resilience are essential for SMEs, especially as they increasingly rely on digital payments. Whether it's a pub, cafe, or hair salon, we can now alleviate small business owners' IT concerns and contribute to the success of the SMEs that form the backbone of our communities.

SMEs underpin the UK economy, said Eoin Heaney, vice president of international at Calix. With an annual turnover of 1.4 trillion, they account for more than 30 percent of UK revenue and employ almost half the countrys workforce. Small business owners face a long list of challengesand finding the right productivity solutions to support their growth is just one more issue they must tackle. With SmartBiz, altnets can finally give SMEs the critical productivity capabilities they need without the dedicated IT staff, or the hefty price tag typically associated with such solutions. SmartBiz presents an opportunity for altnets to both expand their business or grow a new market altogether. Were excited to work with innovative altnets like Connexin that deliver differentiated managed services that enable their SME customers to focus on what they do best: running their own business.

Calix will showcase SmartBiz at Connected Britain 2023, taking place 20-21 September at ExCel London. On Wednesday, 20 September, Calix area vice president Tiffany Shurr will discuss the small business opportunity in the Digital Britain panel session Addressing the UKs Productivity Challenge.

Alex Yeung, Connexin deputy chief executive officer and co-founder, will also speak on Wednesday at Connected Britain. He will discuss the critical connection between subscriber experience and brand identity in the panel, Speed alone is not a winning strategy-building brand equity in their community is how Connexin is winning.

To learn more about SmartBiz, schedule a meeting or visit the Calix stand (#76) on the show floor at Connected Britain 2023.

About Calix

Calix, Inc. (NYSE: CALX)Broadband service providers of all sizes leverage the Calix platform and teams to simplify their business and excite their subscribers to grow the value of their business and for their communities for generations. The democratizing power of the platform and portfolio of managed services enables them to operate efficiently, acquire subscribers, and deliver exceptional experiences. Calix is dedicated to driving continuous improvement in partnership with our growing ecosystem to support the transformation of our customers and their communities.

This press release contains forward-looking statements that are based upon managements current expectations and are inherently uncertain. Forward-looking statements are based upon information available to us as of the date of this release, and we assume no obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking statement to reflect any event or circumstance after the date of this release, except as required by law. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from current expectations based on risks and uncertainties affecting Calixs business. The reader is cautioned not to rely on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Additional information on potential factors that could affect Calixs results and other risks and uncertainties are detailed in its quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov.

Calix and the Calix logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Calix and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries. A listing of Calixs trademarks can be found at https://www.calix.com/pages/trademarks.html. Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914941472/en/

Press Inquiries:

Alison Crisci

919-353-4323

[email protected]

Investor Inquiries:

Jim Fanucchi

[email protected]

Source: Calix, Inc.
Clients celebrated for driving results and innovation in the connected supply chain

AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- e2open Parent Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ETWO), the connected supply chain SaaS platform with the largest multi-enterprise network, announced the winners of its Connect 2023 Client Awards, celebrated at e2opens annual client conference in Orlando, Florida this week. The awards program honors clients who have achieved remarkable results in supply chain and channel innovation, resiliency, connectivity, and partnership.

E2open is honored to work with such amazing clients  many of the largest companies and best brands in the world, said Michael Farlekas, chief executive officer of e2open. Every year we take this opportunity to publicly recognize the great work these companies have done to foster a collaborative, connected supply chain, and to thank them for their trust and partnership as we strive to create a supply chain that moves as one.

The Connect 2023 Client Awards were presented in five categories:

The Connected Supply Chain Award for most effective use of e2opens end-to-end platform and network, E2net, was presented to Vertiv. A longstanding customer since 2011, Vertiv uses multiple e2open applications as part of its supply chain planning and procurement processes. With a single source of truth across all planning and procurement applications, Vertiv and suppliers can look at the same view of the application they are subscribed to, making it a truly connected experience.

QSC received the Supply Chain Innovator Award, for its most effective use of e2opens Demand Planning, S&OP, PO Collaboration and GTM Express features. QSC is a multinational organization that has enjoyed significant revenue growth, which can add a lot of stress to a supply chain. With e2open, the QSC supply chain now has enhanced visibility and predictability and can scale more easily to match the companys growth.

The Supply Chain Visibility Award was presented to Tapestry, INC. for the innovative design, development, and implementation of a complete collaboration platform for the companys 1000+ Tapestry Service Provider Factories and Raw Material Supplier users globally. E2opens cloud-based platform solution centralizes global sourcing processes and streamlines supplier collaboration with Tapestrys sourcing and supply chain teams. With e2open, Tapestry has centralized and automated its sourcing and supply chain processes, helping to optimize its global operations while reducing manually intensive efforts. The company has since been able to improve support for its growth objectives, achieving continuity across teams and reducing global supply chain risks while enhancing both supplier and employee satisfaction.

Ball Corporation received the Logistics as a Service (LaaS) Excellence Award for best-in-class collaboration with e2opens Logistics as a Service team. Ball Corporation and e2open have partnered to manage shipments and recently added management of the Ball Mexico division. Both teams have worked closely to bring Ball's metrics to the top of the network's performance, keeping costs down and service up.

High Liner Foods was the recipient of the Supply Chain Impact Award. High Liner Foods has an impressive carrier management strategy, and hosts an annual Carrier Summit, which has resulted in improved carrier relations, performance and cost reduction throughout the U.S. and Canadian network. Alongside e2open, both teams have worked together to significantly improve on-time performance.

About e2open

E2open is the connected supply chain software platform that enables the worlds largest companies to transform the way they make, move, and sell goods and services. With the broadest cloud-native global platform purpose-built for modern supply chains, e2open connects more than 420,000 manufacturing, logistics, channel, and distribution partners as one multi-enterprise network tracking over 14 billion transactions annually. Our SaaS platform anticipates disruptions and opportunities to help companies improve efficiency, reduce waste, and operate sustainably. Moving as one. Learn More: www.e2open.com.

E2open and Moving as one. are the registered trademarks of E2open, LLC. All other trademarks, registered trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914543592/en/

Media Contact:

5W PR for e2open

[email protected]

718-757-6144



Investor Relations Contact:

Dusty Buell

[email protected]

[email protected]



Corporate Contact:

Kristin Seigworth

VP Communications, e2open

[email protected]

[email protected]

Source: e2open Parent Holdings, Inc.
GALESBURG, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Intelligent power management company Eaton today announced an exclusive global alliance with Michigan-based technology developer Traxen to sell, distribute, service, and provide installation support for their cutting-edge iQ-Cruise system. This collaboration aims to support the commercial transportation industry by improving fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability while helping fleet profitability.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914542345/en/

Eatons artificial intelligence-powered iQ-Cruise system improves fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability. (Photo: Business Wire)

Unlike existing available adaptive or predictive cruise control systems that work independently of each other, iQ-Cruise integrates both functions in a single device and applies artificial intelligence (AI), to provide automatic, more natural speed control with significant fuel savings. iQ-Cruise works with automated manual transmissions, including the Eaton Cummins Automated Transmission Technologies portfolio of transmissions. A monthly subscription fee covers all hardware, installation support and regular software updates.

Traxen's iQ-Cruise system utilizes AI, advanced algorithms, GPS and high-definition 3D maps to determine the most fuel-efficient driving style for Class 8 commercial vehicles in real time. While driving with the system engaged, it continuously monitors live data including traffic conditions, vehicle load, and terrain, utilizing its automated cruise control capabilities to optimize the vehicle's speed and acceleration/deceleration to maximize fuel efficiency.

We are happy to partner with Traxen to bring its unique iQ-Cruise system to the commercial vehicle market," said Tim Bauer, vice president, North America Aftermarket, Eatons Mobility Group. "This collaboration aligns with Eatons commitment to deliver intelligent solutions that maximize efficiency and sustainability for our customers.

Eatons broad reach and expertise in the industry makes them the perfect partner to help Traxen scale its groundbreaking technology in the commercial transportation industry, said Ali Maleki, CEO of Traxen. Our iQ-Cruise system empowers fleet owners and operators to save fuel without compromising truck performance or safety.

Initial feedback from United Road, a leading vehicle and heavy-haul transportation service and early adopter of the iQ-Cruise system, shows that fuel consumption and emissions reduction can be significant.

We are thrilled to witness the remarkable impact of Traxen's iQ-Cruise solution on our fleet. Using iQ-Cruise we have realized more than 6% fuel economy savings with some frequent users saving as much as 10%-15%, said Jason Walker, chief operating officer, United Road. This technology has a transformative impact on our operations and cost structure while positively contributing to a more sustainable future of transportation and logistics by reducing our greenhouse gas emissions.

The Traxen iQ-Cruise kit comes with an installation guide to instruct commercial vehicle service centers how to install the system. Once installed, users can activate the system through Traxen.

Schedule a pilot test or learn more about the iQ-Cruise system.

Eaton is an intelligent power management company dedicated to improving the quality of life and protecting the environment for people everywhere. We are guided by our commitment to do business right, to operate sustainably and to help our customers manage power  today and well into the future. By capitalizing on the global growth trends of electrification and digitalization, were accelerating the planets transition to renewable energy, helping to solve the worlds most urgent power management challenges, and doing whats best for our stakeholders and all of society.

Founded in 1911, Eaton is marking its 100th anniversary of being listed on the New York Stock Exchange. We reported revenues of $20.8 billion in 2022 and serve customers in more than 170 countries. For more information, visit www.eaton.com. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

About Traxen Inc.

Traxen Inc. is a Michigan-based company specializing in semi-automated driving technologies. Leveraging artificial intelligence, advanced controls, and data analytics, Traxen is dedicated to achieving significant fuel and energy efficiencies. With a focus on innovation and reliability, Traxen develops proprietary hardware and software platforms validated to rigorous automotive and trucking standards. Established in 2018 and backed by venture capital and private investors, Traxen is at the forefront of revolutionizing the future of transportation.

The current iQ-Cruise product, offered by Traxen, is a testament to the company's dedication to excellence. However, Traxen is preparing to surpass this milestone with the introduction of iQ-Vision and iQ-Pilot. As barriers to adoption are eliminated, these advanced solutions will further enhance the driving experience and propel the industry towards a future of safe and efficient autonomous driving.

To learn more about Traxen Inc. and its groundbreaking technologies, please visit www.traxen.ai. Stay updated on the latest news and developments by following us on LinkedIn.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914542345/en/

Thomas Nellenbach

[email protected]

(216) 333-2876 (cell)

Source: Eaton
Partnership Speeds Up Implementation of GroupBys Composable eCommerce Solution to B2B and B2C Retailers and Wholesalers

TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- GroupBy, a SaaS-based eCommerce product discovery technology leader, has teamed up with Orium, North Americas leading composable commerce consultancy and systems integrator, to serve enterprise-level B2B and B2C eCommerce brands better. The partnership will expedite the implementation of GroupBys Product Discovery Platform powered by Google Cloud Discovery AI, helping retailers set the strong composable commerce foundations today they will need to thrive in the future.

The collaboration between GroupBy and Orium allows enterprise retail brands to curate best-in-class tech stacks by expediting the implementation of GroupBys AI-first search and product discovery solution. GroupBys API-first and fully composable architecture easily integrates with all major eCommerce platforms, with implementations taking as little as 7 to 12 weeks. By combining GroupBys industry-leading technology with Oriums deep expertise in designing and building composable commerce experiences, brands can expedite the upgrade process even further, maximizing their ROI through faster onboarding, lowered integration costs and reduced time-to-market.

Our strategic alliance with Orium is a natural, organic fit, with both companies supporting brands building composable eCommerce tech stacks. Oriums vast experience as a leading retail service company helps brands update their tech stacks to composable infrastructure, says Roland Gossage, CEO of GroupBy. Were thrilled that this partnership will help bring our solution to more brands, improving the overall customer experience for so many shoppers, while improving ROI and revenue for retailers.

GroupBy's next-generation Search and Product Discovery Platform powered by Google Cloud Discovery AI goes beyond legacy solutions to help brands offer consumers Google-quality search and recommendations experiences. By using sophisticated AI and Machine Learning models to deliver relevant, personalized, buyable search results, GroupBys platform dramatically reduces the amount of manual intervention and curation required, freeing up merchandising teams to focus on more valuable, revenue-generating activities, lowering the total cost-of-ownership. GroupBys product discovery platform improves key sitewide metrics, including conversion and click-through rate, revenue per search and add-to-cart.

For over a decade, Orium has been delivering custom retail and commerce experiences for some of the worlds biggest brands, including New Balance, Kum & Go, SiteOne, and Harry Rosen. An early member of the MACH Alliance and title sponsors of Composable.com, Orium works exclusively with best-in-class composable commerce vendors to deliver award-winning omnichannel experiences and create the future-ready retail platforms brands need.

One of the key advantages of composable commerce is that it enables brands to select the best solutions for their unique needs, shared Jason Cottrell, CEO at Orium. Being able to take advantage of the latest advances in techlike AIwith solutions like GroupBys Search and Discovery Platform is a core reason they make the switch to a MACH-based platform in the first place.

To provide retailers and wholesalers with best practices on building flexible, scalable, modular commerce platforms Orium has collaborated with GroupBy and Google Cloud to present a Masterclass: Planning the Architecture Of Your Modular DXP. Attendees will discover how to build flexible, scalable, modular commerce platforms that make it easy to integrate new tech and incorporate data to empower teams to deliver leading customer experiences.

Join the September Masterclass featuring industry experts Arv Natarajan, Director of Product with GroupBy; David Azoulay, Head of Product Engineering with Orium; and Rob Eaton, Cloud Partner Engineer with Google Cloud by clicking here.

To learn more about GroupBys Product Discovery Platform Powered by Google Cloud Discovery AI, visit www.groupbyinc.com.

About GroupBy Inc.

GroupBy's cloud-native SaaS technology powers the world's most relevant and highly converting eCommerce websites. Our composable Product Discovery Platform powered by Google Cloud Discovery AI, provides industry-leading features for data enrichment, search, recommendations, navigation, personalization, merchandising and search analytics. GroupBys next-generation search and recommendations platform creates seamless eCommerce experiences optimized for your business outcomes, including revenue, margin, and profit. We excel with complex, large-scale B2B configurations and in dynamic, high volume B2C scenarios. Founded in 2013, GroupBy is headquartered in Toronto, Canada and has offices in Austin, Texas. To learn more, visit www.groupbyinc.com. Follow GroupBy on LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram.

About Orium

Orium is North Americas leading composable commerce consultancy and system integrator. We help ambitious commerce and retail brands execute, innovate, and transform more quickly, enabling them to deliver engaging customer experiences and scale their brands across channels through careful curation of MACH technologies.

###

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914702810/en/

Brianna LaRouche

(404) 214-0722 Ext. 142

[email protected]

Source: GroupBy Inc.
HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Hewlett Packard Enterprise (NYSE: HPE) will host its Securities Analyst Meeting on October 19, 2023. Join the live webcast to hear Antonio Neri, president and CEO of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, and members of the management team discuss HPEs vision, strategy, and financial outlook.

The webcast will begin Thursday, October 19 at 1:30 p.m. CT (2:30 p.m. ET) and will be available at www.hpe.com/investor/SAM2023. Following the executives presentations, HPE will hold a live Q&A session.

A replay of the webcast will be available at the same website shortly after the call and will remain available for approximately one year. For additional information, see investors.hpe.com.

About Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (NYSE: HPE) is the global edge-to-cloud company that helps organizations accelerate outcomes by unlocking value from all of their data, everywhere. Built on decades of reimagining the future and innovating to advance the way people live and work, HPE delivers unique, open and intelligent technology solutions as a service. With offerings spanning Cloud Services, Compute, High Performance Computing & AI, Intelligent Edge, Software, and Storage, HPE provides a consistent experience across all clouds and edges, helping customers develop new business models, engage in new ways, and increase operational performance. For more information, visit: www.hpe.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914423013/en/

Media Contact:

Laura Keller

[email protected]

Investor Contact:

Jeff Kvaal

[email protected]

Source: Hewlett Packard Enterprise
HubStar launches the worlds first dynamic space management solution built for hybrid work. Patented algorithms simplify the complexity that has stumped business decision-makers until now: figuring out the amount and type of office space required to serve employees, no matter how varied their attendance.

LONDON & MARLBOROUGH, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- HubStar, an industry leader in dynamic workplace management technology, today announced the launch of a new hybrid space management solution, HubStar Space.

For years, companies have wasted billions of dollars on grossly underutilized office space, because until now, they had no way of knowing how much space they need, how to reduce real estate footprint without disrupting performance, or how remaining offices should be designed to deliver an experience thats worth the commute.

Workplace leaders are facing the greatest opportunity of our generation to positively disrupt the way we work, said Steve Vatidis, Executive Chairman, HubStar. Yet figuring out which work patterns and places will deliver the best outcome across three dimensions  your people, your company and the planet - is complex. This transition - from relatively static workplace management to dynamic workplace management - demands flexible, connected approaches, datasets and automation. Thats why the HubStar platform exists and why HubStar Space is essential for delivering a high-performance hybrid workplace.

Legacy space management tools and approaches that served workplace leaders well up until now can no longer cope with the demands of todays workforce. Why?

They lack the ability to assign people to spaces based on complex work patterns and preferences, making it impossible to execute an effective hybrid occupancy strategy They are unable to update floor plans with the speed and accuracy hybrid strategies require, leading to frustration for employees relying on out-of-date office maps

As a result of these shortcomings, space planners face sky-rocketing costs as they attempt to create workarounds and custom code that render systems unsupported, error-prone and requiring untenable person-hours to maintain.

HubStar One  which brings together integrated solutions - HubStar Scheduling, HubStar Experience, HubStar Utilization and now HubStar Space  was built to solve these challenges, empowering workplace leaders to adopt an agile approach to managing continuous change.

HubStar is a privately held, global company with headquarters in Marlborough, Mass and London, UK. The company provides a next-generation hybrid working platform to drive productivity, collaboration and workplace experience while reducing real estate costs. With operations in the US, UK, Europe and APAC, HubStar helps thousands of teams in over 60 countries create dynamic workplaces across diverse industries. For more information visit hubstar.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914101781/en/

For press enquiries contact Jane Young: [email protected]

Source: HubStar
VANCOUVER, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, is pleased to announce the North America version of its ground-breaking LTE Cat 1 bis module, the EG800Q-NA, powered by the Qualcomm QCX216 LTE IoT modem from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. With its remarkably small form factor, this ground-breaking module is poised to completely transform the IoT industry in the North American market as its wide range of versatile applications and unparalleled connectivity capabilities are set to redefine the landscape.

The module delivers a maximum downlink data rate of 10Mbps and an uplink rate of 5Mbps, critical for a variety of high-performing IoT applications including smart utility meters, asset trackers, e-mobility, parking meters, and home automation. The EG800Q-NAs support of Cat 1 bis allows it to use a single antenna, balancing cost and performance and making the module an ideal solution for IoT terminals that are designed to be compact and cost-effective.

One of the standout features of the EG800Q-NA is its comprehensive support for North American bands, empowering businesses and developers to create IoT solutions that seamlessly communicate across diverse networks, ensuring a streamlined and efficient user experience. Certification is in process for the leading US operators, underscoring the module's efficacy for the North American market and certification is underway for the FCC, IC, GCF and PTRCB.

"We're thrilled to introduce the EG800Q-NA module to our customers in North America," stated Norbert Muhrer, President and CSO, Quectel Wireless Solutions. "As one of the pioneering modules built upon the Qualcomm QCX216 LTE IoT Modem, it perfectly caters to a wide range of mid-range applications and deployment scenarios where dependable and economical communication solutions are essential."

The Quectel EG800Q-NA redefines compactness, measuring at an astonishingly small size of just 17.7mm x 15.8mm x 2.4mm. Its compact form factor, extensive network compatibility, and adaptable regional capabilities position it at the forefront of the industry. An array of robust Internet protocols and industry-standard interfaces including USB 2.0, UART, I2C, PCM, and USIM further enhance its versatility across various IoT applications like asset management, remotely managed access control (RMAC), and smart grid solutions. Notably, the module supports Dynamic Firmware Over-The-Air (DFOTA) functionality, enabling seamless automatic firmware updates, alongside Wi-Fi scan positioning technology.

In addition to its remarkable individual capabilities, the Quectel EG800Q-NA is part of a dynamic series of products that cater to multiple regions. The EG800Q series encompasses a range of modules, each tailored to meet the unique connectivity needs of various global markets.

In order to streamline customer designs, Quectel also offers an array of high-performance antennas that significantly amplify wireless connectivity. This empowers IoT developers to seamlessly bundle the EG800Q-NA module with Quectel antennas and leverage their pre-certification services, ultimately curtailing costs and expediting the time-to-market for their Cat 1 devices.

About Quectel

Quectels passion for a smarter world drives us to accelerate IoT innovation. A highly customer-centric organization, we are a global IoT solutions provider backed by outstanding support and services. Our growing global team of 5,900 professionals sets the pace for innovation in cellular, GNSS, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules as well as antennas and services.

With regional offices and support across the globe, our international leadership is devoted to advancing IoT and helping build a smarter world.

For more information, please visit: www.quectel.com, LinkedIn, Facebook, and X (formerly known as Twitter).

Qualcomm is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated.

Qualcomm branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.

Qualcomm patented technologies are licensed by Qualcomm Incorporated.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914456172/en/

Media contact: [email protected]

Source: Quectel Wireless Solutions
2024 Delivery of at Least 450 MWh of Lithium-Ion Cells, Modules and Racks Growing to 2.2 GWh by Early 2026; Next-Generation Turnkey Solutions for Commercial & Industrial, Utility-Scale Storage Also Announced

COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- KORE Power, Inc. (KORE) will deliver at least 450 MWh  and up to 600 MWh  of lithium-ion battery cells, modules and racks to Nidec North America in 2024, the first year of the annual supply agreement. This commitment grows up to 2.2 GWh of supply in 2026, according to the multi-year deal announced Thursday.

Late last year, KORE announced Nidec was part of its Series A Funding Round. In addition to that agreement, todays announcement secures KORE as a supplier of lithium-ion cells, modules and racks for Nidec. Nidec is a top three global leader in energy storage and power conversion systems.

The collaboration between the companies also includes developing turnkey energy storage systems for utility-scale and commercial/industrial projects, highlighting KOREs DC Blocks and Nidecs Power Conversion Systems (PCS).

Nidecs next generation PCS product line-up will also be utilized by KORE for their own integrated solutions. Nidecs PCS are world class for power density, efficiency, and durability and are able to seamlessly integrate into the most challenging electricity grids.

In the next three years, KORE has agreed to deliver 450 MWh to 2.2 GWh of lithium-ion battery cells, modules, and racks. In parallel, Nidec will supply 225 MVA to 1,100 MVA of power conversion systems to capture the substantial growth in the energy storage market in North America.

This agreement solidifies the strategic partnership between KORE and Nidec, said Lindsay Gorrill, CEO and Founder of KORE Power. Combined, our teams bring a century of advancing power technologies. Together we will drive energy storage opportunities forward for industrial, commercial and utility-scale customers.

"Leveraging Nidec's expertise in power conversion and energy storage solutions, this partnership enables us to address the growing demand for energy storage projects. Our customers are seeking to maximize return on their deployment of intermittent energy sources," said Dominique Llonch, President of Nidec Industrial Solutions. "With our strength and reach in industrial solutions, and KORE's supply of proven lithium-ion technology, we will deliver new solutions to meet that demand.

For more information regarding this announcement, please see contact list below.

For information regarding KORE: www.korepower.com

For information regarding Nidec: https://www.nidec.com/

Cautionary Statement

Certain statements contained herein constitute forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements about the plans, objectives, and expectations. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information, and such information involves various risks and uncertainties. KORE Power, Inc. believes the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct, and such forward-looking statements in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. Forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release, and  KORE Power disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities legislation.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914471798/en/

David Jakubiak

[email protected]

(708) 299-7733

Aleysha Newton

[email protected]

(208) 758-9392

Carl Holley

[email protected]

(832) 871-0244

Source: KORE Power, Inc.
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- In response to todays Los Angeles Times story about L.A. County pushing for sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening providers to bill private insurers, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) describes the move by county public health officials as shortsighted.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913426267/en/

AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) continues to promote condom use and free HIV testing with its latest outdoor advertising campaigns, but the billboards featuring a condom-covered banana with the Just Use It slogan and the useacondom.com URL only will appear in Los Angeles after several national out-of-home advertising companies refused the artwork. (Photo: Business Wire)

STI rates across the county are soaring while condom use has fallen off a cliff. In an environment with so much judgment and shame around getting tested, the last thing we want to do is make the experience even more uncomfortable by questioning people about their insurance status, said AHF President Michael Weinstein. When you are in a hole, stop digging -- every obstacle will mean more STIs and ultimately more costs for L.A. County.

AHF provides STI screening services countywide regardless of ability to pay and has a long history of sexual health advocacy campaigns in the region and nationally. AHF has been sounding the alarm on the state of the STI crisis in L.A. County and directly to the L.A. Department of Public Health for several years, most recently with prominent ad campaigns Gonorrhea Alert featuring a steamship colliding with an iceberg and Just Use It depicting a condom-wrapped banana.

About AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF)

AIDS Healthcare Foundation, the largest global AIDS organization, currently provides medical care and/or services to over 1.8 million people in 45 countries worldwide in the US, Africa, Latin America/Caribbean, the Asia/Pacific Region and Europe. To learn more about AHF, please visit our website: www.aidshealth.org, find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/aidshealth and follow us on Twitter: @aidshealthcare and Instagram: @aidshealthcare.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913426267/en/

US MEDIA CONTACT:

Ged Kenslea, Senior Director, Communications, AHF

+1 323.308.1833 work +1.323.791.5526 mobile

[email protected]

Denys Nazarov, Director of Global Policy & Communications, AHF

+1 323.308.1829

[email protected]

Source: AIDS Healthcare Foundation
Appointment supports companys strategic Vision 2025 plan, which calls for investing in profitable growth-generating initiatives

IRVINE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- loanDepot, Inc. ("LDI" or the "Company") (NYSE: LDI), one of the countrys leading non-bank mortgage lenders, today announced it has appointed industry veteran Dan Hanson to a newly-created role as executive director of enterprise partnerships and acquisitions.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914135577/en/

loanDepot, Inc. has appointed industry veteran Dan Hanson to a newly-created role as executive director of enterprise partnerships and acquisitions. (Photo: Business Wire)

Hanson will be responsible for developing new revenue-generating opportunities, including national referral relationships and acquisitions. In close collaboration with the companys senior leadership team, he will also work to expand loanDepots existing portfolio of programs and partnerships (outside of the companys successful joint venture channel), including its innovative employer benefits program and its Lender Express offering, which provides a robust menu of mortgage products to credit unions and other financial institutions seeking to offer additional products to better serve their customers.

Through the execution of our Vision 2025 plan, weve done the hard work to ensure we can continue to address the impacts of the current market downturn and still invest in our platform, said LDI Mortgage President Jeff Walsh. This includes driving growth through accretive acquisitions, referral relationships and other strategic partnerships. Our scale, marketing prowess, industry-leading tech stack and strong cash reserves all position us well for the next chapter of our history, and Dan will play a critical role in driving our growth and success.

Hanson joined loanDepot in 2011 and has served the company in a variety of leadership roles, including executive director of in-market production. He brings nearly 40 years of mortgage experience and industry relationships to this new position.

Walsh added, Dan is an accomplished leader with a long history of nurturing strong industry relationships with builder partners, mortgage industry professionals, real estate firms and even competitors. He is the right leader for this role, and we look forward to his success.

Dan Hanson can be reached at [email protected].

About loanDepot

loanDepot (NYSE: LDI; NMLS # 174457) is an equal housing lender and digital commerce company committed to serving its customers throughout the homeownership journey. Since its launch in 2010, loanDepot has revolutionized the mortgage industry with a digital-first approach that makes it easier, faster and less stressful to purchase or refinance a home. Today, as one of the nation's largest non-bank retail mortgage lenders, loanDepot enables customers to achieve the American dream of homeownership through a broad suite of lending and real estate services that simplify one of life's most complex transactions. With headquarters in Southern California and offices nationwide, loanDepot is committed to serving the communities in which its team lives and works through a variety of local, regional and national philanthropic efforts.

LDI-IR

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914135577/en/

Investor Relations Contact:

Gerhard Erdelji

Senior Vice President, Investor Relations

(949) 822-4074

[email protected]

Media Contact:

Rebecca Anderson

Senior Vice President, Communications & Public Relations

(949) 822-4024

[email protected]

Source: loanDepot, Inc.
Cybersecurity Leader Preparing for Larger Space and Hiring 75-100 Cybersecurity Professionals

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Today, Lumifi Cyber, a leading player in the cybersecurity arena, proudly announces its significant long-term commitment through 2030 at SkySong, The ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center. This strategic move is an endorsement of Scottsdale's burgeoning tech community and a testament to Lumifi Cyber's commitment to growth, innovation, and community development.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913313797/en/

Lumifi Cyber Headquarters (Photo: Business Wire)

Unlike other cybersecurity solutions that require constant management and oversight, Lumifi Cyber delivers Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services that actively hunt and assess threats while keeping costs low and working with existing cybersecurity toolsets. Lumifi Cybers team of cybersecurity professionals defend large and small organizations all over the world. The company has clients in nearly every industry with a long history of supporting mission-critical assets for institutions in government, healthcare, financial and legal sectors.

Jim Sadler, LOCATE AI broker responsible for the SkySong corporate services solution for Lumifi Cyber, expressed great excitement about this development, saying: LOCATE and our technology and real estate services team are thrilled to support the industry leading cybersecurity firm and Lumifi Cybers significant growth trajectory. They're at the forefront of redefining our city's tech landscape and their operation fits nicely with SkySong, The ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center.

Michael Malone, CEO of Lumifi Cyber, shared his enthusiasm: This commitment marks a pivotal moment in Lumifi Cyber's journey. Not only does it reflect our relentless pursuit of excellence in cybersecurity, but it also signifies our belief in Scottsdale's potential to be a global tech powerhouse. Our commitment to our customers remains unwavering as we grow  to provide top-tier solutions and service. Furthermore, by deepening our roots here, we aim to contribute positively to the local economy and community.

Were proud to be working with both Sadler and Lumifi Cyber again on this important phase of growth at SkySong, said Sharon Harper, Chairman and CEO of Plaza Companies, the master developer of SkySong. Michael Malones entrepreneurial growth and industry leadership exemplify the enterprise growth and path towards accelerating technology transfer at SkySong that we strive to embody.

Plaza Companies is the master developer of SkySong, in partnership with University Realty, the City of Scottsdale and Holualoa Companies.

Lumifi Cyber's Expansion will bring these Key Highlights:

Lease Commitment: Lumifi Cyber has signed a robust lease through 2030, reflecting its long-term dedication to the Scottsdale tech ecosystem.

Future Expansion Plans: Lumifi Cyber is postured for significant expansion and growth and consequently has sights on similar expansion at SkySong. When completed, Lumifi Cyber will expand its existing Security Operations Center into SkySongs larger space in the new building, estimating its growth to be up to 25,000 square feet in the next 3 years. This move will nearly triple the company's size and solidify its consistent growth trajectory.

Space Modernization: The current expansion enables Lumifi Cyber to redesign and modernize its workspace, fostering a more collaborative environment for its growing clientele and employee base.

Commemorating a 15-Year Journey in Cybersecurity: Lumifi Cybers remarkable impact in the realm of MDR services within cybersecurity is highlighted by numerous pioneering innovations. ShieldVision is an advanced multi-tenant cybersecurity platform. This platform showcases exceptional proficiency in threat hunting, detection, and rapid automated responses, significantly enhancing efficiency across a diverse range of cybersecurity solutions. Lumifi Cybers operational distinction is further validated by the companys cutting-edge SOC 2 Type II certified Security Operations Center (SOC), where a dedicated team of analysts and threat-mitigation specialists work tirelessly 24/7.



Lumifi Cybers sense of pride originates from a continuous pursuit of advancements and certifications, including the companys upcoming adoption of NIST 800-171, aligning with CMMC 2.0 standards.





Lumifi Cybers remarkable impact in the realm of MDR services within cybersecurity is highlighted by numerous pioneering innovations. ShieldVision is an advanced multi-tenant cybersecurity platform. This platform showcases exceptional proficiency in threat hunting, detection, and rapid automated responses, significantly enhancing efficiency across a diverse range of cybersecurity solutions. Lumifi Cybers operational distinction is further validated by the companys cutting-edge SOC 2 Type II certified Security Operations Center (SOC), where a dedicated team of analysts and threat-mitigation specialists work tirelessly 24/7. Lumifi Cybers sense of pride originates from a continuous pursuit of advancements and certifications, including the companys upcoming adoption of NIST 800-171, aligning with CMMC 2.0 standards. Job Creation: With this expansion, Lumifi Cyber aims to onboard another 75 to 100 new personnel, significantly focusing on high-paying cybersecurity roles. A notable point is that 85% of Lumifi Cybers staff earn over $100K annually.

In-house Centric Approach: Lumifi Cyber is adopting an in-office-centric model, facilitating better internal and external partnerships. This decision aligns with the company's belief in fostering a tight-knit community for better collaboration and innovation.

Strengthening SG&A: By creating additional non-security roles in the Sales, General and Administrative domains to ensure the company's holistic growth.

Tech Acquisitions: Lumifi Cyber will enhance its technological capabilities through targeted acquisitions as part of its growth strategy. Lumifi Cybers second acquisition is to be completed in the next 45 days.

HCAP Partners, a California-based private equity firm, and Tulsa, Oklahoma-based BOK Financial Corporation are investors.

In conclusion, the expansion underscores Lumifi Cyber's commitment to growth, community engagement, and innovation. Positioned within the SkySong hub, which serves as a nexus for technology, research, education, and entrepreneurship, Lumifi Cyber is perfectly poised to drive forward ASU, Greater Phoenix, and the global knowledge economy.

About Lumifi Cyber

Lumifi Cyber, headquartered in Scottsdale, is a vanguard in the cybersecurity industry, dedicated to protecting digital assets and fortifying cyber defenses for businesses across the board. With a team of experts and state-of-the-art technology, Lumifi Cyber is shaping the future of cyber safety.

About SkySong, The ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center

SkySong, The ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center is one of the premier economic engines in the Valley of the Sun. The projects success is a direct result of a focus on innovation and technology that attracts companies ranging from some of the worlds best known brands to one- or two-person startups.

About Plaza Companies

Plaza Companies is the developer of the project in partnership with University Realty, the City of Scottsdale and Holualoa Companies. Lee and Associates provides the brokerage services and Plaza Companies provides the property management and construction services.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913313797/en/

MEDIA CONTACT

Ann Krauss

O: 480-568-4997

[email protected]

Source: Lumifi Cyber
GOLDEN, Colo. & MONTREAL--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Molson Coors Beverage Company (NYSE: TAP, TAP.A; TSX: TPX.B, TPX.A) is pleased to announce that it will host a Strategy Day in New York City at the New York Stock Exchange on Tuesday, October 3, 2023. The event will commence at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time (11:30 a.m. Mountain Time) with presentations from its executive management team, followed by a reception beginning at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (2:30 p.m. Mountain Time).

Members of the investment community interested in attending in person, please reach out to the Molson Coors IR Team at [email protected]. A webcast of the event will also be accessible via the Investor Relations page of the Molson Coors Beverage Company website, ir.molsoncoors.com. A replay of the webcast will be posted within one hour following the live webcast and will be available through October 2, 2024.

Overview of Molson Coors Beverage Company

For more than two centuries Molson Coors Beverage Company has been brewing beverages that unite people to celebrate all lifes moments. From Coors Light, Miller Lite, Molson Canadian, Carling, and Staropramen to Coors Banquet, Blue Moon Belgian White, Vizzy Hard Seltzer, Leinenkugels Summer Shandy, Miller High Life and more, Molson Coors produces many beloved and iconic beer brands. While Molson Coors history is rooted in beer, Molson Coors offers a modern portfolio that expands beyond the beer aisle as well.

Molson Coors Beverage Company is a publicly traded company that operates through its Americas and EMEA&APAC reporting segments, and is traded on the New York Stock Exchange and Toronto Stock Exchange. Our Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy is focused on People and Planet with a strong commitment to raising industry standards and leaving a positive imprint on our employees, consumers, communities, and the environment. To learn more about Molson Coors Beverage Company, visit molsoncoors.com, MolsonCoorsOurImprint.com, or on Twitter though @MolsonCoors.

About Molson Coors Canada Inc.

Molson Coors Canada Inc. (MCCI) is a subsidiary of Molson Coors Beverage Company (MCBC). MCCI Class A and Class B exchangeable shares offer substantially the same economic and voting rights as the respective classes of common shares of MCBC, as described in MCBCs annual proxy statement and Form 10-K filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The trustee holder of the special Class A voting stock and the special Class B voting stock has the right to cast a number of votes equal to the number of then outstanding Class A exchangeable shares and Class B exchangeable shares, respectively.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914129582/en/

Investor Relations:

Greg Tierney

(414) 931-3303



Traci Mangini

(415) 308-0151



News Media:

Rachel Dickens

(314) 452-9673

Source: Molson Coors
KNOXVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- New Day Diagnostics is pleased to announce that the Extraordinary General Meeting of Epigenomics AG (Frankfurt General Standard: ECX1), a molecular diagnostics company focused on blood testing for the early detection of cancer, has approved the acquisition agreement between the two organizations. The agreement's completion will further enhance New Day Diagnostics' ability to improve lives by empowering people with innovative, accessible diagnostics.

New Day Diagnostics is thrilled that the resolutions required for the execution of this Agreement have been successfully passed, said Eric Mayer, President and CEO of New Day Diagnostics. This development is a testament to the commitment and vision of both organizations to increase survivorship from colorectal cancer with an accurate, affordable, accessible test requiring routine blood collection as a path to increasing compliance.

Jens Ravens, Executive of Epigenomics AG, added: We are very pleased that the Extraordinary General Shareholders' Meeting followed our reasoning and approved the agreement with an overwhelming majority. As a result, there is now a realistic possibility that Epigenomics' considerable groundwork will bear fruit and patients will benefit from the blood-based colorectal cancer screening test.

The agreement, approved by the Extraordinary General Meeting, leads to the sale of nearly all assets held by Epigenomics AG to New Day Diagnostics. The approval of this Agreement was necessary under Section 179a of the German Stock Corporation Act (AktG). Additionally, the Extraordinary General Meeting gave the green light to amend the statutory purpose of Epigenomics AG, aligning it with the future purpose of Epigenomics AG and the strategic goals of the acquisition.

The closing of the agreement remains subject to customary closing conditions, and both parties are diligently working towards its completion. Once finalized, this strategic move will empower New Day Diagnostics, a full-service diagnostics developer, marketer, and CRO service provider to expedite this solution through clinical trials to manufacturing and market entry.

For more information about New Day Diagnostics, please visit newdaydiagnostics.com.

About New Day Diagnostics, LLC

New Day Diagnostics, LLC, located in Knoxville, TN is a full-service diagnostic healthcare company committed to the development of innovative diagnostic solutions that lead to improved patient outcomes while reducing healthcare costs. The company is a Contract Research Organization (CRO) with the capabilities for support throughout the diagnostic process, from biomarker to discovery to product launch. It includes an ISO 13485:2016 and CLIA certified in vitro diagnostics laboratory specializing in oncology, gastrointestinal disease, infectious disease, and womens health. The company is also in active development and distribution of affordable, state-of-the-art, multiplex, point-of-care, and over-the-counter tests that allow early detection and monitoring of disease through accuracy, ease of use, and affordability.

About Epigenomics AG

Epigenomics AG is a molecular diagnostics company focused on blood testing for the early detection of cancer. Based on its proprietary biomarker technology for the detection of methylated DNA, Epigenomics developed blood tests for various cancer indications with high unmet medical needs.

About TCB Capital Advisors

TCB Capital Advisors specializes in advising on companies' buying, selling, investment, and growth strategies. TCB offers a tailored approach to each of our clients. Outside of transactions alone, work with our clients can include building a corporate development function, working with the business development team to grow revenue or post-transaction integration and consulting services. Our ethos asserts that such services aren't isolated from transactions, but integral to supporting management towards successful expansion or exit. TCB Capital Advisors is an affiliate of Weild & Co. Securities transactions effected through Weild & Co., member FINRA/SIPC.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914250761/en/

New Day Diagnostics

Jessica Etheridge, Director of Marketing and Branding

[email protected]

Source: New Day Diagnostics, LLC
PARIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Eiffel Tower served as the venue for the second Paris International Children's Art Festival (PICAF). The festival aimed to build an international platform for multicultural exchange and integration through the collaboration of renowned artists, charitable organizations, and all walks of society. Our platform seeks to promote fair and widespread dissemination and sharing of art education resources, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to receive art education.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230912019503/en/

(Photo: Business Wire)

The festival was organized by the European Artists Association (AAE) with support from UNESCO (Chad) and sponsorship from the International Institute of Well-Being (IIWB).

The festival's highlights included exclusive video courses led by prominent figures in the art world. Remy Aron, Chairman of the French Styling Arts Association and Professor of Painting and Printmaking at the Paris Academy of Fine Arts, shared his insights. Claude Yvel, a contemporary hyperrealist surrealist painter, and Philippe Muyl, renowned French playwright and director of "The Butterfly," also contributed their expertise. Those artists provided valuable advice on "The importance of art education for children's growth and its lifelong influence" to children and parents alike.

The event also featured insights from exemplary families from France, Germany, Singapore, Hong Kong, and beyond, who shared their experiences in nurturing children's artistic talents. Representatives from the Embassy of Chad in China and UNESCO Chad expressed optimism and high expectations for the Chad-UNESCO collaboration project through video messages.

Estelle, representing the AAE, traced the festival's journey of development during her speech. Jason Arthaud, a PICAF-invited artist, stressed the importance of allowing children to "develop freely" before introducing structured learning. Ms. Sun Xiaoyu, representing IIWB, reaffirmed the association's commitment to the mental development and growth of children worldwide.

In addition, the art festival featured interactive zones and an exhibition area for outstanding artworks, allowing children to unleash their energy and creativity. Ms. Grace Shi, the Executive Director and Spokesperson of IIWB Association, and Ms. Emily Cheong, the Secretary-General, were present at the event.

The closing of the festival marks the beginning of a new chapter. Anticipation is already building for the next edition of the festival, where children's dreams will once again take center stage on the art platform!

Website: WWW.AAEFRANCE.COM

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230912019503/en/

Contact Person: ESTELLE GE

Email: [email protected]

Source: Association Des Artistes Europeen
SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Located in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, Bryn Mawr College has selected YuJa Panorama Digital Accessibility Platform to enhance the accessibility of digital media and course materials campuswide.

The college, which already has robust accessibility guidelines that go beyond Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) standards, was seeking an integrated accessibility solution compatible with Moodle learning management system (LMS). YuJa Panorama integrates with all major LMS Platforms to help instructors ensure they are providing accessible course content to their students, including real-time suggestions, the ability to provide alternative formats, custom website accessibility profiles, analytics and reporting, and more. University officials also were excited about the ability to edit remediation instruction guidelines to meet institutional practices.

Choosing a digital accessibility platform isn't just about compliance; it's about providing a diverse community of students with tools to meet their learning needs, said Nathan Arora, Chief Business Officer at YuJa, Inc. Selecting YuJa Panorama is a reflection of Bryn Mawrs commitment to inclusivity and equal access for all, and were excited for them to have a single, comprehensive platform to meet all their accessibility needs.

ABOUT BRYN MAWR COLLEGE

Bryn Mawr is a distinguished womens college located on a beautiful residential campus outside a major metropolitan area in Pennsylvania. Two distinctive coed graduate schools and a post-baccalaureate premedical program enrich the College community and offer opportunities for advanced study. At Bryn Mawr, students choose from a wide array of majors in the sciences, social sciences, and the humanities. The College is a leader in academic innovation, with a particular focus on putting learning into action through research, fieldwork, community and social justice engagement, and internships.

ABOUT YUJA, INC.

YuJa is a leader in ed-tech solutions. Our platforms provide organizations of all sizes with the tools to educate, engage, inspire and collaborate. We serve learning enterprises within all sectors, including higher-ed, K-12, government, healthcare, non-profit and corporate. We have legal headquarters in Delaware with primary U.S. offices in Silicon Valley, California, and Canadian offices in Toronto.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914395590/en/

Hannah Johnson

1-888-257-2278

Source: YuJa, Inc.
Studies Conducted at University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and Florida Atlantic University Under Grant from U.S. Department of Defense Showed Drug Reduced Stress and Alcohol Consumption in in Vivo Studies

WOODS CROSS, Utah--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Phoenix PharmaLabs, Inc. (https://www.phoenixpharmalabs.com), a private company developing potent, non-addictive treatments for pain and substance abuse disorders, today announced that in vivo studies demonstrated that the companys lead compound, PPL-138, reduced symptoms of PTSD and decreased alcohol consumption in a rat model of PTSD/AUD (alcohol abuse disorder). The work conducted at University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and Florida Atlantic University under a grant from the US Department of Defense (DoD), funded through the Pharmacotherapies for Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders Alliance (PASA)*, demonstrates that PPL-138 may have potential to be an effective treatment for these common comorbid disorders.

Dr. Andrea Cippitelli in the Department of Biomedical Science, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, is the principal investigator of the grant. Dr. Cippitelli has been examining the ability of the drug to reduce alcohol consumption in anxiety-susceptible or anxiety-resistant PTSD subjects. When modeling PTSD in animals, it is important to take into consideration that trauma induces PTSD in only a portion of individuals and anxiety can be a trigger for increased alcohol consumption, noted Dr. Cippitelli.

Dr. Kelly Standifer, Professor and Chair of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Richard T. Anderson Chair in Neuroscience is the principal investigator for the OUHSC arm of the study that exams the ability of this novel compound to alleviate pain and anxiety-like symptoms associated with PTSD over time. We chose this model of PTSD because it produces a wide range of comorbidities experienced by those diagnosed with PTSD. Its exciting that something non-addictive appears to reduce pain, anxiety-like behaviors and alcohol consumption so effectively, Dr. Standifer said.

A patent application for the Use of PPL-138 for treatment of PTSD/AUD has just been filed. This new indication for PPL-138 is in addition to patents already granted or currently filed for the compounds use in treatment of acute/chronic pain and substance abuse disorders.

Dr. Lawrence Toll, Professor, Biomedical Science at Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University and FAU Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute Investigator, who also serves as Phoenixs Chief Neuropharmacologist, coordinated the studies and serves as a co-investigator for the project. We continue to be impressed with the ability of PPL-138 to provide potential therapeutic benefits in the areas of pain, substance abuse, as well as this new indication for PTSD, Dr. Toll said.

We are moving forward in our development of PPL-138 for safe, potent, non-addictive treatment for moderate to severe acute and chronic pain, said William Crossman, president and CEO of Phoenix PharmaLabs. The additional research and development of PPL-138 for other indications provides the company with new avenues for potential licensing and revenue streams. More immediately, it enables us to utilize grants that can further develop the compound for these additional indications. Crossman added that the company is in the midst of its final pre-clinical studies to enable it to seek IND approval from the FDA to initiate human clinical trials.

Phoenix has been the recipient of more than $12 million in grants from governmental entities such as NIDA and the US Army to develop treatments to address critical unmet needs:

Safe, potent, non-addictive relief of moderate to severe pain

Treatment for various types of addiction

Treatment for PTSD/AUD

Phoenix PharmaLabs is a preclinical drug discovery company. In addition to the companys lead compound, PPL-138, Phoenix has a portfolio of 25 other compounds that have the potential to treat pain, substance abuse and addiction. The company has funded its efforts through grants as well as more than $6 million of private funding. The company currently has a $3 million convertible note offering of which $1 million has already been raised.

*The U.S. Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity, 820 Chandler Street, Fort Detrick MD 21702-5014 is the awarding and administering acquisition office. This work was supported by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs through the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Research Program under Award No. W81XWH-18-2-0044. Opinions, interpretations, conclusions and recommendations are those of the author and are not necessarily endorsed by the Department of Defense. In conducting research using animals, the investigator(s) adhered to the laws of the United States and regulations of the Department of Agriculture.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914705291/en/

Beverly Jedynak, [email protected], 312-943-1123; 773-350-5793 (cell)

Source: Phoenix PharmaLabs, Inc.
Innovative AI-powered Media Search Solution set to Revolutionize Media Search and Content Management

BLOOMINGTON, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Scale Logic, a prominent leader in Media Workflow Solutions, is proud to announce its strategic partnership with ObviousFuture. Their software, Cara.One, is a revolutionary AI-powered media search and content management platform. As the exclusive North American Value-Added Distributor of Cara.One, Scale Logic is set to transform how media professionals handle content search, post-production processes, and overall workflow efficiency.

Unlike traditional search engines that rely on metadata and tags, Cara.One brings a groundbreaking approach to media content discovery. With its unparalleled ability to comprehend the actual content of media, the platform empowers users to effortlessly locate the precise assets they require, significantly streamlining post-production workflows and delivering substantial time and cost savings. By bypassing the need for extensive tagging and metadata entry, Cara.One is poised to redefine how media professionals interact with their content archives.

"At Scale Logic, we are committed to identifying leading-edge solutions that enhance our client's productivity and empower their creative endeavors," said Bob Herzan, CEO of Scale Logic. "Our partnership with Cara.One aligns perfectly with this mission, as their innovative AI-driven platform eliminates the conventional barriers to efficient media search and content management."

Key features and benefits of the Cara.One platform includes:

Intuitive Interface: Cara.One offers an intuitive user interface that allows users to swiftly navigate and interact with their media libraries, ensuring a seamless experience.

Content Understanding: By comprehending the content itself, Cara.One enables users to search for shots based on concepts, emotions, and even specific statements within interviews, transcending the limitations of traditional metadata-based searches.

Elimination of Repetitive Work: The platform eradicates the need for extensive tagging and retagging, saving users from spending countless hours on manual data entry and organization.

Cost Efficiency: With Cara.One's advanced content discovery capabilities, users can efficiently repurpose existing assets, eliminating the need to repurchase stock footage or recreate content that may have been difficult to locate in the past.

Adaptive Learning: Cara.One evolves alongside users, learning from their content usage patterns and continuously enhancing its ability to serve relevant media assets.

"We are excited to join forces with Scale Logic as the North American Value-Added Distributor of Cara.One," stated Eddi Weinwurm, President at ObviousFuture. "This partnership enables us to extend our reach and provide media professionals across North America with a transformative solution that will elevate their content management and production workflows."

Scale Logic and ObviousFuture's collaboration represents a leap forward in the media industry's quest for more efficient, intuitive, and cost-effective content management solutions. By harnessing the power of AI-driven content understanding, the partnership will unlock new levels of creativity and productivity for media professionals.

For more information about Scale Logic and the Cara.One platform, please visit https://scalelogicinc.com/data-management/ai-content-search/ .

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914059303/en/

For media inquiries, please contact:



Drew Wanstall,

V.P. Business Development

[email protected]

Source: Scale Logic
Star Mountain Capital, an employee-owned, specialized investment manager with approximately $3.5 billion in assets under management targeting systematic alpha and low market-correlated returns for its institutional and high-net-worth clients, announced that Amon Johnson, former Managing Director at BlackRock joined full-time as a Managing Director.

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Star Mountain Capital, LLC ("Star Mountain"), a specialized investment manager with approximately $3.5 billion in assets under management (committed capital including debt facilities as of 8/31/2023) focused on generating systematic excess risk-adjusted returns by investing in the less efficient lower middle-market of established, private small and medium-sized businesses in North America, is pleased to announce that Amon Johnson has joined as a Managing Director. Amon will also join Star Mountains ESG and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) committees.

Star Mountains values include strong shareholder alignment with its senior team investing personal capital and sharing the firms carried interest with 100% of U.S.-based employees.

Amon is joining our team in response to the increasing demand by institutional and retail investors to target defensive, high yielding and asymmetric upside returns, said Brett Hickey, Star Mountain Capital Founder & CEO. Amons history in advising sophisticated clients and trusted relationships will allow Star Mountain to continue to provide high quality partnerships with our growing investor base, enhancing our value proposition to investors and business owners. We are aligned with Amons values including our continuing efforts to build an industry-leading and diverse team.

I was attracted to Star Mountains investor-centric differentiated and purpose-built business focused on generating systematic alpha for investors with the further benefit of low market correlation, which I think is increasingly important in todays uncertain economic environment, said Amon Johnson. I believe Star Mountains distinctive business model and highly aligned team will be a perfect place for me to utilize my 30 years of experience including over 15 years at BlackRock. I look forward to leveraging my experience and relationships to continue to develop Star Mountains team and business.

Mr. Johnson will be based in Star Mountains New York City office.

Mr. Johnson is a senior executive with 30+ years of investment industry experience working with some of the most sophisticated institutions and family offices investors on their portfolio investments.

Mr. Johnson spent over 15 years at BlackRock, the ~$9 trillion AUM global multi-asset investment manager. As a Managing Director and member of the Institutional Client Business Group, he advised and provided oversight for some of the largest and most sophisticated domestic institutional client relationships. He oversaw approximately $40 billion of client capital invested across a broad range of global strategies. At BlackRock, he worked under current Star Mountain Senior Advisor, Doug Waggoner, who led BlackRocks U.S. & Canada Institutional Client Business Group.

Mr. Johnson was most recently a Managing Director, Head of Investor Relations & Fundraising at Backcast Partners, a $1.2 billion AUM private credit manager focused on senior lending to non-sponsored and sponsor backed companies in the U.S. lower middle-market. Mr. Johnson was responsible for all aspects of the fundraising process including coordination of investment consultants for larger institutional clients.

Prior to Backcast, Mr. Johnson was a Managing Director at PineBridge Investments as part of the Americas Institutional Sales Group where he focused on middle-market direct lending, mezzanine credit and secondary investment strategies. He helped restructure the U.S. product suite and played an integral part in the firms Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) effort.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Johnson was a Vice President at JPMorgan Investment Management responsible for building and managing direct relationships with over 30 clients representing total AUM of more than $10 billion. While at JPMorgan Investment Management, he was selected to join a group of 37 professionals from its nine global offices in a rigorous five-month program designed to build core competencies in all product lines and client areas.

Mr. Johnson started his career as a tax specialist at KPMG.

Mr. Johnson is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and has an MBA from The Leonard N. Stern school of business at New York University. He currently serves on the Board of Regents for Delbarton School where he holds three positions: Vice Chairman of the Board of Regents, Chairman  Finance and Audit Committee, and member of the Investment Committee.

About Star Mountain

With approximately $3.5 billion in assets under management (as of August 31, 2023), Star Mountain takes a data-driven approach to investing into the North American lower middle-market through two complementary investment strategies: (i) direct debt and equity investing and (ii) secondaries (acquiring LP interests and direct assets and making primary LP commitments) and NAV loans to funds. Star Mountain believes these complementary strategies provide data-enhanced, scalable, diversified and customizable access for its institutional and high-net-worth investors to established businesses that generally have at least $15 million in annual revenues and under $50 million in EBITDA. Its investors include public pensions, private pensions, insurance companies, commercial banks, endowments, foundations, family offices and high-net-worth individuals. Star Mountain is 100% employee-owned and shares its profits with 100% of its U.S. full-time employees as part of its focus on maximizing value for its stakeholders and investors through alignment of interests.

Since 2010 through August 2023, Star Mountain has made over 200 direct investments in businesses and over 40 secondary / fund investments within its Collaborative Ecosystem, focused on the North American lower middle-market. One of Star Mountains specialties is seeking current cash income for investors that is materially above the typical yields found in the public markets, often accompanied with potential long-term capital gains equity returns and low correlation to public markets through its distinctive origination, underwriting and value-added investment capabilities.

Star Mountain was recently named one of the Inc. 5000 fastest-growing private companies in America.

For the fourth straight year, Star Mountain was again named one of the 2022 Best Places to Work by Crains New York Business as well as once again one of the 2022 Best Places to Work by Pensions & Investments.

Star Mountain believes its focus and dedication has been productive for job creation and economic development including in underserved areas and communities. Star Mountain is dedicated to this large market of underserved businesses purpose-built to address the challenges and opportunities of these companies. As part of its commitment, Star Mountain has trademarked Investing in the Growth Engine of America.

Star Mountain has a dedicated Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Committee led by Anne Yang, Strategic Portfolio Manager & ESG Committee Chair, who was formerly a Managing Director & Member of Executive Office at Goldman Sachs. Star Mountain believes that ESG is aligned with financial stability and long-term shareholder value creation.

As part of its ESG program, Star Mountains Charitable Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c)3 focuses on improving lives through economic development, including job creation, health & wellness and cancer research. Notable missions include helping match veterans and women with high quality small and medium-sized business career opportunities across the country, including within Star Mountains portfolio.

Note: This does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase interests in any investment product. Awards and recognitions by unaffiliated rating services, companies and/or publications should not be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he / she / it will experience a certain level of results if Star Mountain is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services; nor should they be construed as a current or past endorsement, testimonial endorsement, recommendation or referral of Star Mountain or its representatives by any of its clients or any other third party. Rankings published by magazines and others are generally based exclusively on information prepared and / or submitted by the recognized advisor. Moreover, with regard to all performance information contained herein, directly or indirectly, if any, readers should note that past results are not indicative of future results. The description and the selection methodologies of each award and recognition are subjective and will vary.

Awards and recognitions by unaffiliated rating services, companies, and/or publications should not be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she/it will experience a certain level of results if SMFM is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services; nor should they be construed as a current or past endorsement, testimonial endorsement, recommendation or referral of SMFM or its representatives by any of its clients or any other third party. Rankings published by magazines and others are generally based exclusively on information prepared and/or submitted by the recognized advisor.

Crains two-part survey process consisted of evaluating each nominated companys workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics. The second part involved an employee survey to measure the employee experience. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final ranking. Star Mountain must pay a fee to Crains only for survey collection purposes. Detailed eligibility criteria can be found here: https://bestcompaniesgroup.com/best-companies-to-work-for-in-new-york/eligibility/

To be named to P&Is Best Places list, all firms met Best Companies high threshold for inclusion and were evaluated against others of similar size. Individual firm profiles, which were compiled based on survey results, reflect U.S. employment numbers and were confirmed by Best Companies in the summer. Company and employee comments were edited for space, style and clarity. Assets under management or advisement are as of June 30, unless otherwise noted. To participate, companies had to have at least 20 employees in the U.S., at least $100 million of discretionary assets under management or advisement and be in business for at least one year. An anonymous employee survey, which aimed to evaluate employee engagement and satisfaction, accounted for 75% of a firms score; an employer survey, which evaluated workplace policies, practices, benefits and demographics, made up 25%. https://bestcompaniesgroup.com/best-places-to-work-in-money-management/eligibility/

Companies on the 2023 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2019 to 2022. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2019. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent--not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies--as of December 31, 2022. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2019 is $100,000; the minimum for 2022 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine rankings were calculated to four decimal places. https://www.inc.com/inc5000

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913690424/en/

John Polis  [email protected]

Source: Star Mountain Capital, LLC
STCP CLO 4 attracts capital from both domestic and international institutional investors

DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Sycamore Tree Capital Partners (Sycamore Tree), a specialist asset manager with private and alternative credit investment expertise, announced today the closing of STCP CLO 2023-4, Ltd. (STCP CLO 4 or the Fund), the Firms fourth collateralized loan obligation since launching the CLO platform in July of 2021 and the Firms third CLO in 2023.

STCP CLO 4 totals $405 million and received broad support from investors such as banks, insurance companies, and asset management firms, including significant investor participation from outside the United States. The Fund has a five-year reinvestment period and a two-year non-call period. Citibank Securities, NA acted as the Funds underwriter, and Dechert, LLP acted as counsel to Sycamore Tree.

Notwithstanding volatile markets, we continue to demonstrate our teams strong experience and capabilities, said Paul Travers, Managing Director and Portfolio Manager. We appreciate that our support from both existing and new investors continues to grow.

Having launched four distinct investment strategies to date, Sycamore Trees total AUM is now approximately $2.0 billion.

About Sycamore Tree Capital Partners

Sycamore Tree Capital Partners is a value-oriented, durable-alpha investment firm specializing in alternative credit. Founded by industry veterans Mark Okada, Trey Parker and Jack Yang, the firm has deep experience across economic and market cycles. Headquartered in Dallas, TX with an office in New York City, the firms expertise includes bank loans, high yield bonds, structured credit, and special situations. For additional information, please visit www.sycamorelp.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914480574/en/

Andrew Merrill & Aidan OConnor

Prosek Partners

646.818.9283

[email protected]

[email protected]

Source: Sycamore Tree Capital Partners
U.S. fighter jets launched airstrikes early Friday on two locations in eastern Syria linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Pentagon said, in retaliation for a slew of drone and missile attacks against U.S. bases and personnel in the region that began early last week.
Late August witnessed a transformative showcase of Transmutes Verifiable Data Platform (VDP) for enhancing trade security, regulatory compliance, and supply chain visibility.

AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Transmute, a leader in supply chain data management and visibility solutions, announced the successful conclusion of its technology test with United States Customs and Border Protection (US CBP). Major commercial participants in the US CBP Steel Tech Demo included prominent Mexican-based steel manufacturing companies ArcelorMittal, DEACERO, Gerdau Corsa, Outokumpu Mexinox, Tenaris, and Ternium, collectively represented by CANACERO; as well as customs brokers AN Deringer, Customs Direct, Gontor, Mohawk Global, and Wisdom Digital Logistics. The completion of the Steel Tech Demo marks a significant milestone in trade digitization and supply chain security for industry and governments alike.

The Steel Tech Demo is a culmination of nearly 4 years of work alongside US CBP and reaffirms the immense impact verifiable data technologies have in modernizing and securing international trade transactions from product origins to the end consumer, said Karyl Fowler, CEO of Transmute. This test demonstrates how our Verifiable Data Platform (VDP) can seamlessly interoperate with existing systems and processes to not only meet regulatory requirements in near real time but also unlock new levels of operational efficiency and unprecedented supply chain visibility.

Transmute's cutting-edge Verifiable Data Platform (VDP), built upon open standards technologies, was put to the test in a real-world scenario to issue, manage, and present critical trade documents using the innovative data format of verifiable credentials.

Current supply chains are weakened by reliance on tamperable paper documents, fragmented data silos, and opacity that threatens security and precludes resilience. VDP empowers organizations to take control of their supply chain, automatically transmuting data into verifiable credentials, protecting it with decentralized identity technology, and generating cohesive, actionable insights using linked data. This revolutionary approach not only bolsters the security of global supply chains, but also automates compliance with the US CBP's 21st Century Customs Modernization and ACE 2.0 interoperability initiatives, streamlining regulatory processes and reducing compliance bottlenecks and spending.

Global interoperability standards will help unify the approach to transparent supply chains within both the public and private sectors, streamlining communication and improving both security and facilitation, said Vincent Annunziato, CBPs Business Transformation and Innovation Division Director.

Transmute has worked through the Department of Homeland Security Silicon Valley Innovation Program (DHS SVIP) for four years to test and operationalize Transmute VDP ahead of US CBPs upcoming requirements  the successful completion of the Steel Tech Demo informs Transmute VDPs ability to transform and optimize the landscape of global trade by ensuring the integrity of trade documents, boosting transparency, and enhancing overall supply chain visibility.

Our 2023 test created the possibility for more advancements. With bipartisan support, CBP will extend its commitment to global standards by testing its ability to verify the origin of transactions and issue credentials. The 2024 tests are a prelude to limited production for the five Silicon Valley Innovation Program projects (pipeline oil, steel, natural gas, e-commerce, and food safety) and the larger CBP modernization effort, the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) 2.0, Annunziato said.

The participating steel companies, represented by CANACERO, expressed their enthusiasm for the outcomes of the Tech Demo. Our collaboration with Transmute and the US CBP has shed light on the future of trade documentation and compliance, said Salvador Quesada, General Director of CANACERO. By utilizing cutting-edge solutions like VDP, we are not only safeguarding our supply chain but also paving the way for increased value chain visibility.

Mexico became the USs top trading partner as of 2023, and the participation of the Mexican steel companies suggests even greater trade collaboration opportunities between Mexico and the US.

The success of the Steel Tech Demo sets the stage for future industry collaborations, underscoring the potential of verifiable data technology to reshape trade operations, prove the legitimacy and provenance of products and brands, enhance security, and streamline compliance procedures. Transmute remains dedicated to advancing the integration of verifiable data solutions in various sectors, driving innovation and creating a more secure, connected world.

For media inquiries, please contact [email protected]

Raise the standard of your supply chain data with VDP today  or follow Transmute on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Medium

About Transmute:

Transmute Verifiable Data Platform (VDP) transforms data from every stage of digitization and paper into secure, interoperable, machine readable, and context rich data. Leveraging cryptographically-secure verifiable credential and decentralized identifier technology, Transmute VDP empowers users to ensure data integrity, authenticity, and privacy throughout its lifecycle. With a commitment to innovation and security, Transmute VDP is revolutionizing the way data is managed and shared within the manufacturing and e-commerce industries.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914499687/en/

Transmute

[email protected]

Source: Transmute
ConocoPhillips (NYSE: COP) announced today further progress on its global liquefied natural gas (LNG) strategy, signing a commercial agreement to secure additional regasification capacity in Europe at the Gate LNG terminal in the Netherlands. This agreement further complements the companys foundational LNG resource positions in Qatar and Australia, offtake and equity in Sempras recently sanctioned Port Arthur LNG Phase 1 project on the U.S. Gulf Coast, regasification agreement at the German LNG Terminal announced last year, and the offtake agreements at Mexico Pacifics Saguaro LNG export facility on the west coast of Mexico announced last month.

Adding capacity at the Gate LNG terminal fits well with our efforts to deliver reliable, lower-carbon energy into Europe from highly competitive LNG supply, said Bill Bullock, executive vice president and chief financial officer of ConocoPhillips. Expanding our LNG footprint with agreements like this further enhances a balanced, diversified, and attractive portfolio as we progress our global LNG strategy.

Gate Terminal B.V., a joint venture of Vopak and Gasunie, is an LNG hub at the Port of Rotterdam that contributes to the natural gas supply in the Netherlands and northwest Europe. The terminal began operations in 2011. ConocoPhillips 15-year throughput agreement for approximately 1.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), or 2 BCM equivalent, begins in September 2031 and secures access to this important market for the companys growing global LNG portfolio.
Essential Properties Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE: EPRT) announced today the pricing of an underwritten public offering of 10,440,000 shares of its common stock, all of which are being offered in connection with the forward sale agreements described below, at a public offering price of $23.00 per share. The offering was upsized from the previously announced offering size of 8,700,000 shares of common stock, and the offering is expected to close on September 18, 2023, subject to customary closing conditions.

Wells Fargo Securities, BofA Securities, Citigroup, and Mizuho are acting as the joint book-running managers for the offering. Truist Securities, BMO Capital Markets, Capital One Securities, TD Securities, Barclays, and Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC are acting as the book-running managers of the offering. Stifel, Huntington Capital Markets, Raymond James, and Wolfe Capital Markets and Advisory are acting as co-managers of the offering.

In connection with the offering, the Company entered into forward sale agreements with Wells Fargo Securities, BofA Securities, Citigroup, and Mizuho (or affiliates thereof) (the forward purchasers), with respect to 10,440,000 shares of the Companys common stock.

The underwriters have been granted a 30-day option, exercisable in whole or in part from time to time, to purchase up to an additional 1,566,000 shares of the Companys common stock. If the option to purchase additional shares of the Companys common stock is exercised, the Company expects to enter into one or more additional forward sale agreements with the forward purchasers in respect of the number of shares of the Companys common stock that are subject to exercise of the option to purchase additional shares.

In connection with the forward sale agreements and any additional forward sale agreements, the forward purchasers (or their affiliates) are expected to borrow from third parties and sell to the underwriters an aggregate of 10,440,000 shares of the Companys common stock (or an aggregate of 12,006,000 shares of the Companys common stock if the underwriters option to purchase additional shares is exercised in full). However, a forward purchaser (or its affiliate) is not required to borrow and sell such shares if, after using commercially reasonable efforts, such forward purchaser (or its affiliate) is unable to borrow such shares, or if borrowing costs exceed a specified threshold or if certain specified conditions have not been satisfied. If a forward purchaser (or its affiliate) does not deliver and sell all of the shares of the Companys common stock to be sold by it to the underwriters, the Company will issue and sell to the underwriters a number of shares of its common stock equal to the number of shares that such forward purchaser (or its affiliate) did not deliver and sell, and the number of shares underlying the relevant forward sale agreement or such additional forward sale agreement will be decreased by the number of shares that the Company issues and sells.

Pursuant to the terms of the forward sale agreements and any additional forward sale agreements, and subject to its right to elect cash or net share settlement, the Company intends to issue and sell, upon physical settlement of the forward sale agreements and any additional forward sale agreements an aggregate of 10,440,000 shares of common stock (or an aggregate of up to 12,006,000 shares of common stock if the underwriters option to purchase additional shares is exercised in full) to the forward purchasers. The Company expects to physically settle the forward sale agreements and any additional forward sale agreements within approximately 12 months from the date of the prospectus supplement relating to the offering.

The Company will not receive any proceeds from the sale of shares of its common stock by the forward purchasers (or affiliates thereof). The Company intends to contribute any net proceeds from the settlement of the forward sale agreements to the Companys operating partnership in exchange for OP Units, and the operating partnership intends to use such net proceeds for general corporate purposes, including potential future investments.

All of the shares of common stock are being offered pursuant to the Companys effective shelf registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC). A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus relating to the offering will be filed with the SEC. When available, a copy of the final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus relating to the offering may be obtained from Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, Attention: Equity Syndicate Department, 30 Hudson Yards, 500 West 33rd Street - 14th Floor, New York, NY 10001, by telephone at 1-800-645-3751 or by email at [email protected]; BofA Securities, NC1-022-02-25, 201 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28255-0001, Attn: Prospectus Department, Email: [email protected]; Citigroup Global Markets, Inc.: c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, NY 11717 (Tel: 800-831-9146) or Mizuho Securities USA LLC, Attention: Equity Capital Markets, 1271 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020, by email at [email protected], or by visiting the EDGAR database on the SECs web site at www.sec.gov.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor will there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.
Global real estate investment company Kennedy Wilson (NYSE: KW) today announced that after 33 years of dedicated service, Mary Ricks has decided to retire as President of Kennedy Wilson and as Director on the companys Board. Mary will serve as a consultant to Kennedy Wilson to aid in the transition.

As my trusted partner and dear friend, Mary has made a significant impact on me personally and has been instrumental in growing our company from an entrepreneurial start-up into a global real estate leader, said Kennedy Wilson Chairman and CEO William McMorrow. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work side-by-side with Mary over the last three decades. She is a fearless leader with a team-first attitude, and we will miss her greatly.

Leading the teams at Kennedy Wilson, both in the U.S. and Europe, has been a remarkable journey and a true honor, said Mary Ricks. Launching the EU business, assembling a stellar team there, taking it public, and then having the privilege to serve as KW Europe's President and CEO are among the milestones I'm proud to have achieved. The establishment of multiple investment platforms with strategic partners in Irish PRS, UK/Irish Logistics and the value add space stands as a testament to our teams collective efforts. I'm especially proud to have spearheaded initiatives like KWW - Kennedy Wilson Women, championing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. More than anything, it's the deep relationships forged over decades that I cherish the most and am immensely grateful for. I am very grateful to Bill for the opportunity and for our friendship and partnership over these many years.

Concurrently, former Executive Vice President Matt Windisch was promoted to President of Kennedy Wilson. Matt Windisch joined the company 17 years ago and has spearheaded strategic planning, public markets activities, and overseen Kennedy Wilsons expanding credit business, which has grown to $7 billion in total gross commitments, including future fundings and deals under contract. Matt has helped raise over $15 billion for the company and its various platforms, and he will continue to maintain many of the companys key investor and banking relationships as his responsibilities expand to overseeing the commercial investment team and third-party capital raising.

Former Head of UK Mike Pegler, who has been with Kennedy Wilson for nearly a decade, will also assume a new role as President of Kennedy Wilson Europe.

Our senior management team has been working and investing together for nearly 20 years and we have successfully grown the company from approximately $6 billion to $25 billion in assets under management since going public in 2009, said William McMorrow. I am extremely confident in the strength of leadership across all areas of our business, and the depth of our collective expertise. Our team is energized about the next chapter at Kennedy Wilson and focused on tackling the new opportunities we expect will arise in the near term.

About Kennedy Wilson

Kennedy Wilson (NYSE: KW) is a leading global real estate investment company. The company owns, operates, and invests in real estate through the balance sheet and through an investment management platform across the Western United States, United Kingdom, and Ireland. Kennedy Wilson primarily focuses on multifamily and office properties as well as industrial and debt investments in the investment management business. For more information on Kennedy Wilson, please visit: www.kennedywilson.com.

KW-IR

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of U.S. federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements are estimates that reflect our managements current expectations, are based on our current estimates, expectations, forecasts, projections and assumptions that may prove to be inaccurate and involve known and unknown risks. Accordingly, our actual results, performance or achievement, or industry results, may differ materially and adversely from the results, performance or achievement, or industry results, expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, including for reasons that are beyond our control. Some of the forward-looking statements may be identified by words like believes, expects, anticipates, estimates, plans, intends, projects, indicates, could, may and similar expressions. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We assume no duty to update the forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914848983/en/

Investors



Daven Bhavsar, CFA



Vice President of Investor Relations



+1 (310) 887-3431



[email protected]

Media



Emily Heidt



Vice President, Communications



+1 (310) 887-3499



[email protected]

Source: Kennedy Wilson
Subaru CEO Atsushi Osaki told reporters at a roundtable meeting in Tokyo on Wednesday that the automaker is still considering where in the United States it will produce EVs. that the company is actively deliberating on the location in the United States where it intends to manufacture electric vehicles (EVs). Notably, the state of Indiana seems to be emerging as the frontrunner for Subaru, given that the automaker already possesses a manufacturing facility in Lafayette where it has been producing Legacy and Outback models.

"The time to make a decision is coming close," Osaki emphasized.

He further mentioned his recent meeting with Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb during his visit to Japan earlier this month, though specific details regarding the conversation, such as potential additional investments by Subaru, were not disclosed.

During Governor Holcomb's trip to Japan, he also made a visit to Gunma, the prefecture located north of Tokyo, which houses Subaru's primary domestic facility. Additionally, he held separate meetings with executives from Toyota and Honda Motor, both of which operate manufacturing plants in Indiana.

Subaru, a company renowned for its strong dependence on the North American market, announced in August its ambitious plan to broaden its electric vehicle (EV) offerings. Their goal is to introduce a total of eight battery-powered models into their lineup by the conclusion of 2028.

To achieve this goal, Subaru has already commenced production of its inaugural mass-produced EV, the Solterra, at Toyota's Motomachi plant. Additionally, the company is set to unveil three new EV models by the conclusion of 2026 and an additional four by the end of 2028.

By Michael Elkins | [email protected]
In a move that underscores its pace of growth and strategic foresight, Volato (entered into a definitive merger agreement with PROOF Acquisition Corp I (NYSE: PACI)), one of the fastest-growing private aviation companies in the United States, today announced a reorganization of its leadership team. This action is being taken just two years after the company took delivery of its first HondaJet and is part of the company's long-term strategic plan to more than double its fleet in the next two years.

"As a rapidly scaling company, it's tempting to focus solely on meeting the immediate demands of growth," said Matt Liotta, Co-Founder and CEO of Volato. "However, we understand the importance of maturation alongside expansion. Todays announcement demonstrates our commitment to evolving our business structure, optimizing operations, and setting new benchmarks for excellence in private aviation."

New Leadership to Steer Core Business

Keith Rabin, who has ably served as CFO of Volato, has been promoted to the role of President. With over a decade of experience in private aviation, his background in various facets of aviation, including sales, maintenance, system operations, human resources, and IT, makes him uniquely qualified to lead Volatos core business.

"Keith's history of leadership at JSX, where he successfully managed fundraising initiatives and rapidly expanded the team to 250 employees, is indicative of the direction we aim to take Volato, added Liotta.

Formation of Experienced Commercial Team to Drive Expansion

A central part of Volatos strategic reorganization is the formation of a new Commercial Team comprising industry veterans with remarkable credentials:

Gary Waldman, Executive Vice President of Fleet Performance, brings over 30 years of experience in both private and commercial aviation to Volato. His prior experience includes executive roles at XOJET, JetSuite, and Jet Edge, where he focused on scaling aviation utilization and advising on technology development.

Brian Coulter, Executive Vice President of Fleet Operations, is an aviation trailblazer with a rich history that includes serving as a General Duties-Pilot in the Royal New Zealand Air Force and Boeing-737 Captain and Director of Safety at Air South Airlines. His stewardship of flight operations and flight standards at WinAir Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and JSX, including authoring flight operations technical publications and JetBlues pioneering use of electronic flight air bags, highlights his exceptional expertise in flight operations.

Norm Katz, Executive Vice President of Sales, leads the Volato sales team. Prior to Volato, Mr. Katz held sales executive roles at several private aviation companies including JetSuite Air, NetJets (MarquisJet), and Sentient Jet.

James Cuff, Vice President of Marketing and Business Development at Volato, has 25 years of experience in global consumer brand marketing. With a resume that includes developing national advertising campaigns for Australia's top beer brands, managing the iconic "A Diamond is Forever" campaign for De Beers, and overseeing key strategic and creative projects for global fashion brand Tommy Hilfiger, James brings a wealth of expertise in strategy, marketing, and communications to Volato.

Clinton Holmes, President of Volato Aircraft Management Services (Volato AMS), brings more than 15 years of experience in private aviation to his role. He is a graduate of the US Military Academy at West Point and holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Houston Bower School of Business. He is an Airline Transport Pilot with over 6,000 hours of flight time, and has served as a Chief Pilot, FAA Check Airman, and operational manager of GC Aviation, which encompassed 16 aircraft ranging from Gulfstreams to King Air 250s prior to its acquisition by Volato. Mr. Holmes has experience in managing a fleet of diverse aircraft and has earned ARGUS Platinum and IS-BAO Stage 3 Safety ratings.

Going Public and Search for New CFO

In a strategic decision that highlights its focus on bolstering its financial framework, especially as it navigates the complexities of going public, Volato has engaged Pacific International to lead the search for a new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Recognizing the critical milestones and challenges associated with becoming a public entity, Volato has also enlisted the expertise of BDO to assist in its IPO readiness.

"The assemblage of this phenomenal Commercial Team reflects not just our growth ambitions but also our commitment to maturation. We understand the invaluable asset that seasoned industry expertise brings to a young company like ours," stated Keith Rabin, newly-appointed President of Volato. "This is a transformative period for Volato, one that promises to redefine private aviation and set new standards in operational excellence and customer service."

Until the new CFO is appointed, Mr. Rabin will continue to fulfill the responsibilities of the position, enabling a smooth transition of responsibilities.
Calgary, AB Canada, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- De Beers Group is proud to announce a CAD$250,000 contribution from the Anglo American Foundation to support wildfire recovery in Canadas Northwest Territories (NWT) and British Columbia (B.C.).

The donation includes CAD$200,000 to the United Way NWT Emergency Response Fund and CAD$50,000 to the United Way British Columbia United for B.C. Wildfire Recovery Fund to support the recovery, protection and prevention efforts in the two jurisdictions The contribution is in addition to CAD$70,000 donated by De Beers to support wildfire relief in the NWT since May.

Moses Madondo, Managing Director of De Beers Group Managed Operations, which oversees De Beers operations in Canada and South Africa, said: We are grateful for the support from the Anglo American Foundation. The funding aligns with our value of Show We Care, and will help establish and support a culture of resilience and safety that will assist people and communities recover from the disastrous wildfires and possibly help prevent similar situations from happening in the future.

The NWT is experiencing the worst wildfire season on record, with more than 12,000 square kilometres of forest and tundra burned so far this year and two-thirds of the Territorys population were forced from their homes for several weeks.

Jacq Brasseur, Emergency Response Coordinator with United Way NWT, said: As we see people begin to return home after weeks of evacuation, the need to help individuals, organizations, businesses and communities recover is as great as ever. We have already provided more than $1.5 million during this wildfire season and this contribution from the Anglo American Foundation will help us continue to support this essential work.

CLICK HERE to learn more about the United Way NWT Emergency Response Fund.

British Columbia is also experiencing its worst wildfire season on record, including evacuations in the Okanagan and Shuswap regions and the destruction of hundreds of homes and businesses.

Since B.C. Wildfire Recovery Fund was established in 2021, the B.C. United Way has provided more than $545,000 in grants to dozens of organizations to support over 5,000 people in close to 90 communities.

CLICK HERE to learn more about the United for B.C. Wildfire Recovery Fund.

The Anglo American Foundation is an independent charitable organization funded by Anglo American plc. The company owns 85% of De Beers Group. Anglo American has an exploration office in Vancouver, B.C., owns Peace River Coal in northeastern B.C., currently in care and maintenance, and holds a 9.9% stake in Canada Nickel, owner of the Crawford nickel project near Timmins, Ontario.

In 2022, the Anglo American Foundation provided $356,000 to support construction of an Early Childhood Learning Centre in Fort Resolution, NWT. Since 2019, the Foundation has also supported 10 employee volunteer projects in the NWT, Ontario, and Alberta through the Ambassadors for Good program.

De Beers employs more than 600 people in Canada. It is the operator of the joint venture Gahcho Kue mine in the NWT, is actively closing Snap Lake mine in the NWT and Victor mine in northern Ontario, has an active exploration team searching for new diamond deposits in Canada, and is advancing the Chidliak Project to establish a technological diamond mine on Baffin Island using FutureSmart Mining principles.

Terry Kruger De Beers Canada 1 (867) 679-6431 [email protected]

Source: De Beers Canada
DMV Rising: Local Roots, Global Impact in Cybersecurity featured technology leaders from the D.C.-areas most innovative cybersecurity companies

WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Virtru, the global leader in data-centric security and privacy, organized and hosted yesterday the inaugural DMV Rising cybersecurity and risk management conference along with co-hosts Dragos, Flashpoint, GDIT, Palo Alto Networks, Sonatype, Brown Advisory, Data Tribe, King and Spalding, and Morrison Foerster.



Momentum Cyber recently released its H1 2023 report, and the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia (DMV) region ranks second nationally with nearly $600M invested in just the past 6 months. Virtru and its fellow sponsors created DMV Rising to foster conversation and learning among organizations innovating on the front lines of cyber risk management  and to celebrate the DMV region as an important player in the global cyber industry.

The DMV region is a force in the $200B cybersecurity industry, yet its impact is often overlooked. DMV Rising shines a spotlight on the D.C. region as a global leader in cybersecurity, showcasing our collective commitment to advancing this critical industry, said Matt Howard, SVP and CMO of Virtru. Cybersecurity is a team sport, and our first DMV Rising event united top cyber minds and was a tremendous success. We look forward to many more to come.

The event included panel discussions featuring executives from the DMV region's most innovative cybersecurity companies including:

Innovating to Minimize Cyber Risk In Commercial Markets: OT, Open Source, and Data Katherine D. Ledesma, Head of Public Policy & Government Affairs at Dragos Alex Berry, President of Sonatype John Ackerly, CEO of Virtru



Zero Trust Security Transformations in Federal Markets: A Difficult and Non-Optional Journey Dr. John Sahlin, Vice President, Cyber Solutions at GDIT Coleman Mehta, Senior Director for Public Policy at Palo Alto Networks Flashpoint: Gray Loftin, Director of Solutions Architecture, National Security



State of Cyber Capital Markets: Early Innovators, M&A, and Public Performance Keith Stone, Managing Director at Brown Advisory John Funge, Managing Partner at Data Tribe Jeremy Schropp, Partner at King and Spalding



To learn more about DMV Rising, contact Virtru here.

About DMV Rising:

DMV Rising: Local Roots, Global Impact in Cybersecurity is D.C.'s premier cybersecurity community event aimed at fostering innovation and collaboration and celebrating the region's achievements within the global cyber industry.

About Virtru:

At Virtru, we empower organizations to easily unlock the power of data while maintaining control everywhere its stored and shared. More than 8,000 global customers trust Virtru to power their data-centric, Zero Trust strategies and safeguard their most sensitive data in accordance with the worlds strictest security standards. Creators of TDF (Trusted Data Format), the open industry standard for persistent data protection, Virtru automates policy control for sensitive data shared through email, files and SaaS application workflows. For more information, visit virtru.com.
Aberdeen, 14 September 2023



Reference is made to the stock exchange notice from Awilco Drilling PLC ("Awilco Drilling" or the "Company") on 22 August 2023 announcing the Subsequent Offering of up to 469,400 new Sponsored Norwegian Depository Receipts (SNDRs) in the Company at a subscription price of NOK 9 per SNDR (the "Subsequent Offering") and the corresponding issuance of new shares.

The subscription period for the Subsequent Offering ended on 5 September and on 14 September 2023, the 469,400 new shares were legally and validly issued. Following the issuance of the new shares, Awilco Drilling has a share capital of GBP 9,501,787.75 divided into 14,168,135 shares, each with a nominal value of GBP 0.65.

Furthermore, Nordic Issuer Services AS, Awilco Drilling's issuer account operator with Euronext Securities Oslo (the "VPS") has today issued new 469,400 SNDRs, each corresponding to one underlying share in Awilco Drilling. The SNDRs will be delivered to the VPS accounts of the subscribers in the Subsequent Offering on or about 14 September subject to full payment having been received from all subscribers.

The subscribers for Offer Shares in the Subsequent Offering will receive one non- transferable warrant for each allocated Offer Share (the "Warrant"). The Company will issue 469,400 Warrants to the subscribers of the Subsequent Offering.

Each Warrant will give the investor the right, but not the obligation, to subscribe for one sponsored Norwegian depository receipt at a price of NOK 1 per sponsored Norwegian depository receipt, subject to the Company undertaking a prior reduction of capital (or otherwise taking steps in accordance with applicable law) to reduce the nominal value of its shares below the GBP equivalent of NOK 1 per share. The Warrants may be exercised by the holders, in full or in part, from 1 January 2024 until the later of (A) 1 February 2024 and (B) the date three months after the arbitral tribunal has issued a final award in the Rig 2 case against Keppel FELS Limited and either (A) the latest deadline for filing an appeal or challenge against such final award has expired without an appeal or challenge being made or (B) a final and non-appealable ruling has been made by the relevant court in respect of such appeal or challenge (the "Exercise Period"). Warrants that are not exercised during the Exercise Period will have no value and will lapse without compensation to the holder. The Warrants are non-transferable and will not be registered in the VPS. The Warrants are created by way of a warrant deed executed by the Company (the "Warrant Deed") which is attached to the shareholder letter available on the Company's website (https://awilcodrilling.com/shareholders/).





For further information please contact:

Erik Jacobs, CEO of Awilco Drilling; Tel: +47 95 29 22 71

Cathrine Haavind, Investor Relations of Awilco Drilling; Tel: +47 93 42 84 64, [email protected]

This information is published in accordance with the requirements of the Continuing Obligations.
Roseau, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Cable News Network (CNN) Travel has nominated the Commonwealth of Dominica as one of the nine best islands in the Caribbean!

All nine countries were categorised based on what they were known for catering to a variety of tourists' reasons for travelling to the Caribbean. Dominica, also widely referred to as the Nature Isle of the Caribbean, boasts intricate features that make it one of the ultimate destinations for tourists and visitors alike.

CNN Travel classified all nine countries according to the following criteria:

1. Dominica: For lush natural beauty

2. North and Middle Caicos: For the unspoiled Caribbean

3. Curacao: For city life

4. Saba: For white-knuckle aviation thrill

5. Antigua: For diverse beaches

6. Barbados: For great cuisine and rum

7. St Barts: For over-the-top luxury

8. Puerto Rico: For music and dance

9. Martinique: For a taste of France in the Caribbean

CNN Travel highlighted the lush natural island as it is home to natural rainforests, luxurious eco-friendly resorts and sustainable and eco-tourism practices around the Nature Isle. Coulibri Ridge, is one of Dominicas eco-resorts that has been featured on Conde Nast Traveller and prides itself on its sustainable accommodation standards.

Tourists can complement their visit by booking accommodation in any of the luxurious resorts with natural outdoor adventures. Some factors that supported this recognition are as follows:

Untamed nature

It is renowned for its lush rainforests, pristine rivers, and abundant waterfalls. The island's rugged terrain includes the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which showcases volcanic peaks, hot springs, and the famous Boiling Lake.

Morne Trois Pitons National Park

The Morne Trois Pitons National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning natural beauty and unique geological features. Spanning approximately 68,000 acres, this park encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, making it a biodiverse hotspot in the Caribbean.

The national park is dominated by volcanic activity, the park displays dramatic features like Boiling Lake, the world's second-largest hot spring, and the Valley of Desolation, known for its fumaroles and bubbling mud pots.

There are several breathtaking waterfalls, including Trafalgar Falls and Middleham Falls, offering visitors the opportunity to swim in refreshing pools and enjoy the lush surroundings.

There is a rich biodiversity and home to various rare and endemic species of plants and animals, including the Sisserou parrot, which is the country's national bird. It plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, protecting endangered species and preserving Dominica's natural heritage.

Morne Trois Pitons offers a network of well-maintained hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore its natural wonders, such as the challenging trek to the Boiling Lake or the accessible Emerald Pool trail.

The park is also culturally significant, with historical remains of indigenous Kalinago settlements, adding an anthropological dimension to its natural beauty.

Boiling Lake

The Boiling Lake is a geothermal wonder situated within Morne Trois Pitons National Park, formed by the collapse of a fumarole, a vent for volcanic gases. It is one of only a few known boiling lakes in the world.

The lake's most distinctive feature is its constantly churning and bubbling waters, caused by the intense heat beneath. The water temperature ranges from 180 to 197 degrees Fahrenheit (82 to 92 degrees Celsius), making it too hot for a traditional swim.

The lake is one of the largest of its kind globally, spanning approximately 200 feet (61 meters) in diameter. Its depth is estimated to be over 200 feet, although exact measurements are challenging due to the constantly changing water levels.

The Boiling Lake is a testament to Dominica's volcanic activity. It is nestled within a volcanic crater and surrounded by a lush rainforest, highlighting the island's geological diversity.

Accessible only by a challenging hike, the journey to the Boiling Lake takes trekkers through dense forests, sulphur springs, and breathtaking viewpoints, making it a popular destination for adventurous hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Soufriere-Scott's Head Marine Reserve

The Soufriere-Scott's Head Marine Reserve (SSMR) pristine and ecologically significant protected area alongside the west coast of Dominica. One of the most remarkable aspects of this reserve is its diverse marine ecosystem. The nutrient-rich waters support an array of marine species, including vibrant coral reefs, sponges, and an impressive variety of fish species. Divers and snorkelers can witness the colourful underwater world with species like parrotfish, angelfish, and seahorses.

Dominica's volcanic origins are evident in the underwater landscape of the SSMR. Submerged volcanic craters, drop-offs, and underwater vents create a dramatic and dynamic seascape. The Soufriere volcano, which gives the area its name, is a prominent feature. The reserve also boasts underwater hot springs and geothermal activity, creating unique geological formations.

The reserve is located at the southern tip of the island, where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. The rugged coastline and cliffs of Scott's Head Peninsula provide stunning vistas and hiking trails for those seeking a terrestrial adventure.

The marine reserve offers world-class diving opportunities, with sites like Champagne Reef where underwater geothermal vents release streams of bubbles, resembling champagne. This phenomenon creates an otherworldly diving experience.

The reserve's coastal and mangrove areas are important habitats for various bird species, including migratory birds, making it a haven for birdwatchers. It is protected by strict conservation regulations, including no-fishing zones, to preserve its natural beauty and biodiversity.

There is a cultural importance to the local community, as Scott's Head Village is a fishing hub and a gateway for exploring the marine reserve. The reserve's beauty extends beyond its underwater wonders, with numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and birdwatching opportunities.

Attachment

Secretary of Dominica Citizenship by Investment Programme Commonwealth of Dominica 001 (767) 266 3919 [email protected]

Source: Commonwealth of Dominica
Chinas foreign minister considers that the road to an expected meeting between President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden would not be "smooth-sailing and that both sides must work together to achieve results, the foreign ministry said on Sunday.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cornish Metals Inc. (TSX-V/AIM: CUSN) (Cornish Metals or the Company), a mineral exploration and development company focused on its South Crofty Tin Project (South Crofty or the Project) in Cornwall, United Kingdom, is pleased to release an updated JORC (2012) Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for the South Crofty Tin Project. Cornish Metals has a 100% interest in, and is the operator of, the South Crofty Project.

The focus of this new MRE is the Lower Mine area (Lower Mine) tin-only section of the Project, which has been subject to a thorough review, including further digitisation and modelling of historical data, but the Upper Mine polymetallic area has also been reported using current metal prices. Furthermore, assay results from recent drilling of the existing major structures at depth (No.4, No.8, Roskear and North Pool Zone) as part of a metallurgical testwork programme, have been incorporated into the new MRE.

This Lower Mine Tin-only updated MRE is summarised in Table 1 below:

Table 1: Summary of South Crofty Lower Mine Mineral Resource Estimate at 0.6% Sn Cut-Off Grade, 6th September 2023 Classification Mass(kt) Grade(% Sn) Contained Tin (t) Increase to Contained Tin from 2021 MRE (t / %) Indicated 2,896 1.50 43,573 10,475 / 31.6% Inferred 2,626 1.42 37,422 5,026 / 15.5%

Note: See footnotes below in Table 2.

Key Points

39.0% increase in tonnes and 31.6% increase in contained tin in the Indicated Mineral Resource category from the 2021 MRE (see news dated June 9, 2021);

35.6% increase in tonnes and 15.5% increase in contained tin in the Inferred Mineral Resource category from the 2021 MRE;

This MRE is based on a 0.6% Sn cut-off grade, as was used in the 2021 MRE;

The majority of new Mineral Resources are contained within the central part of the mine in No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, Main, Intermediate, North and Great Lodes following digitization and modelling of historical data;

The major lode structures that comprise the Mineral Resource remain open along strike and at depth;

The MRE was prepared by Cornish Metals in-house geology team and independently reviewed and verified by Nicholas Szebor of AMC Consultants (UK) Ltd (AMC), who takes responsibility for the estimate; and

AMC will prepare an updated NI 43-101 Technical Report which will be filed on SEDAR within 45 days of this announcement.

Richard Williams, CEO and Director, stated; This is another positive development for South Crofty as we advance the Project through to delivery of a Feasibility Study (FS) by the end of 2024 and continue to demonstrate the potential to increase the Projects Mineral Resource and mine life. The updated MRE will be incorporated into the FS mine plan scheduled for release before the end of 2024.

Table 2 below details the Lower Mine MRE by individual Lode / Zone:

Table 2: South Crofty Lower Mine Mineral Resource Estimate at 0.6% Sn Cut-Off Grade, 6th September 2023 Lode / Zone Classification Mass Grade Contained Tin (kt) (% Sn) (t) No. 1 and No. 2 Indicated 479 1.31 6,281 No. 3 Indicated 164 1.26 2,070 No. 4 Indicated 488 1.76 8,595 No. 8 Indicated 113 2.00 2,264 No. 9 Indicated 98 1.47 1,442 Dolcoath Indicated 466 1.39 6,464 Main/Intermediate/North/Great Indicated 61 1.09 662 North Pool Zone Indicated 283 1.35 3,814 Providence Indicated - - - Pryces / Tincroft Indicated 347 1.18 4,092 Roskear Indicated 397 1.99 7,889 Total Indicated 2,896 1.50 43,573 No. 1 and No. 2 Inferred 580 1.21 7,029 No. 3 Inferred 183 1.13 2,079 No. 4 Inferred 293 1.53 4,467 No. 8 Inferred 149 2.08 3,103 No. 9 Inferred 103 1.54 1,597 Dolcoath Inferred 304 1.31 3,993 Main/Intermediate/North/Great Inferred 276 1.16 3,214 North Pool Zone Inferred 185 1.30 2,391 Providence Inferred 98 1.55 1,578 Pryces / Tincroft Inferred 177 1.34 2,375 Roskear Inferred 278 2.01 5,596 Total Inferred 2,626 1.42 37,422

Notes to Table 2:

The Mineral Resource Estimate is reported in accordance with the requirements of the Joint Ore Reserves Committee of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, the JORC Code (2012). The Qualified Person for this Mineral Resource Estimate is: Mr Nicholas Szebor, MCSM, MSc, BSc, Cgeol, EurGeol, FGS, of AMC Consultants (UK) Ltd. Mineral Resources for the Lower Mine are estimated by conventional block modelling based on wireframing at 0.4% Sn threshold whilst honouring lode continuity and by ordinary kriging or inverse distance to the power of 3 grade interpolation. Cut-off grade was calculated assuming a 24,500 $/t tin price and an assumed metal recovery of 88.5% For the purpose of this Mineral Resource Estimate, assays were capped by lode for the Lower Mine between 1.5% Sn and 23% Sn. Bulk densities of 2.77 t/m3 have been applied for volume to tonnes conversion for the Lower Mine. Mineral Resources for the Lower Mine have had a minimum mining width of 1.2 m applied using 0% Sn dilution. Mineral Resources are estimated from a depth of approximately 350 m to a depth of approximately 870 m. Mineral Resources are classified as Indicated and Inferred based on drillhole and channel sample distribution and density, interpreted geological continuity and quality of data. The Mineral Resources have been depleted for past mining, however, they contain portions that may not be recoverable pending further engineering studies. Mineral Resources which are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues. Effective date 6th September 2023. Numbers may not compute exactly due to rounding.

Table 3 below details the Upper Mine MRE by individual Lode / Zone. The only change to the Upper Mine MRE is a recalculation of Tin equivalent grades due to changes in metal prices since the 2021 MRE was published:

Table 3: South Crofty Upper Mine Mineral Resource Estimate at 0.6% SnEq Cut-Off Grade, 6th September 2023 Lode / Zone Mass Grade Contained Tin Equivalent (kt) % Sn % Cu % Zn % SnEq. (t) Dolcoath Middle 90 0.72 0.88 0.16 1.01 904 Dolcoath Middle Branch 37 0.89 0.34 0.02 1.00 367 Dolcoath Upper Main - - - - - - Dolcoath Upper South South Branch - - - - - - Dolcoath NVC - - - - - - Dolcoath Little NW 12 0.69 0.16 0.87 0.81 99 Dolcoath Little NW FW - - - - - - Dolcoath Little NE - - - - - - Dolcoath South Entral 122 0.62 0.91 1.05 1.00 1,213 Total Indicated 260 0.69 0.78 0.59 0.99 2,583 Dolcoath Middle 22 0.75 0.05 0.01 0.77 171 Dolcoath Middle Branch - - - - - - Dolcoath Upper Main 271 0.61 0.60 0.22 0.82 2,210 Dolcoath Upper South South Branch 88 0.50 0.73 1.83 0.88 778 Dolcoath NVC 36 0.75 1.09 0.15 1.10 395 Dolcoath Little NW - - - - - - Dolcoath Little NW FW 1 0.81 0.03 0.25 0.84 8 Dolcoath Little NE 47 1.15 0.55 1.43 1.45 677 Dolcoath South Entral - - - - - - Total Inferred 465 0.66 0.63 0.63 0.91 4,239

Notes to Table 3:

The Mineral Resource Estimate is reported in accordance with the requirements of the Joint Ore Reserves Committee of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, the JORC Code (2012). The Qualified Person for this Mineral Resource Estimate is: Mr Nicholas Szebor, MCSM, MSc, BSc, Cgeol, EurGeol, FGS, of AMC Consultants (UK) Ltd. Mineral Resources for the Upper Mine are estimated by conventional 3D block modelling based on wireframing at 0.5% SnEq cut-off grade and a minimum width of 1.2m and estimated by inverse distance to the power of 3 grade interpolation. SnEq is calculated using the formula: SnEq% = Sn% + (Cu% x 0.314) + (Zn% x 0.087). Cornish Metals has used metal prices of US$24,500/Tonne Sn, US$8,000/Tonne Cu, and US$2,700/Tonne Zn. Assumptions for process recovery are 88.5% for Sn, 85% for Cu and 70% for Zn. For the purpose of this Mineral Resource Estimate, assays were capped by lode for the Upper Mine at 6% for Sn, 4% for Cu and 20% for Zn. Bulk densities of 2.77 t/m3 and 3.00 t/m3 have been applied for ore volume to tonnes conversion for the granite hosted and metasediment (Killas) hosted Mineral Resources respectively. Mineral Resources are estimated from near surface to a depth of approximately 350 m. Mineral Resources are classified as Indicated and Inferred based on drillhole and channel sample distribution and density, interpreted geological continuity and quality of data. The Mineral Resources have been depleted for past mining; however, they contain portions that may not be recoverable pending further engineering studies. Mineral Resources which are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues. Effective date 6th September 2023. Numbers may not compute exactly due to rounding.

BACKGROUND

South Crofty is a historical, high-grade, underground tin mine that started production in the sixteenth century, and continued operating until 1998;

The Project possesses Planning Permission for underground mining, valid to 2071, Planning Permission to construct a mine water treatment plant, new processing facilities, all necessary site infrastructure, and an Environmental Permit to dewater the mine;

South Crofty has the 4th highest grade tin Mineral Resource globally and benefits from the presence of multiple shafts that can be used for future operations;

Tin is a Critical Mineral as defined by the UK, USA, and Canadian governments, with approximately 75% of the Tin mined today coming from China, Myanmar and Indonesia;

There is no primary tin production in Europe or North America;

Responsible sourcing of critical minerals and security of supply are key factors in the energy transition and technology growth;

South Crofty benefits from strong local community and regional and national government support. The Project could generate 250  300 direct jobs.

The technical information in this news release has been compiled by Mr. Owen Mihalop who has reviewed and takes responsibility for the data and geological interpretation. Mr. Owen Mihalop (MCSM, BSc (Hons), MSc, FGS, MIMMM, CEng) is Chief Operating Officer for Cornish Metals Inc. and has sufficient experience relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Competent Person as defined under the JORC Code (2012) and as a Qualified Person under NI 43-101. Mr. Mihalop consents to the inclusion in this announcement of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.

Independent Qualified Person

This Mineral Resource Estimate was prepared by Mr. Nicholas Szebor (MCSM, BSc, MSc, CGeol, EurGeol, FGS), General Manager and Principal Geologist at AMC Consultants (UK) Limited, a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) and a Competent Person as defined under the JORC Code (2012). A Technical Report disclosing the Mineral Resource Estimate in accordance with the requirements of NI 43-101 will be prepared by AMC on behalf of Cornish Metals and filed on SEDAR within 45 days of this news release. Mr. Szebor consents to the inclusion in this announcement of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.

Use of Foreign Reporting Code

Mineral Resources are classified in accordance with the JORC Code (2012). The confidence categories assigned under the JORC Code were reconciled to the confidence categories in the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) Definition Standards  for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves May 2014 (the CIM Definition Standards). Mineral Resource classifications of Indicated and Inferred have been used in this press release.

The South Crofty data has been reviewed and verified in relation to CIM best operating practices for reporting and for scope and content of JORC and NI 43-101 reporting through a due diligence conducted by Mr. Nicholas Szebor (MCSM, BSc, MSc, CGeol, EurGeol, FGS), General Manager at AMC, an independent qualified person on behalf of the Company. The technical report in respect of the updated Mineral Resource, when filed, will contain more detailed information concerning individual responsibilities, associated quality assurance and quality control, and other data verification matters, and the key assumptions, parameters and methods used by the Company.

ABOUT CORNISH METALS

Cornish Metals is a dual-listed company (AIM and TSX-V: CUSN) focused on advancing the South Crofty high-grade, underground tin Project through to delivery of a Feasibility Study, as well as exploring its additional mineral rights, all located in Cornwall, South West England. The former producing South Crofty tin mine is located beneath the towns of Pool and Camborne, and closed in 1998 following over 400 years of continuous production.

For additional information please contact:

In North America:

Irene Dorsman at (604) 200 6664 or by e-mail at [email protected]

SP Angel Corporate Finance LLP (Nominated Adviser & Joint Broker) Tel: +44 203 470 0470 Richard Morrison Charlie Bouverat Grant Barker Hannam & Partners(Joint Broker) Tel / email: +44 207 907 8500 / [email protected] Matthew Hasson Andrew Chubb Jay Ashfield BlytheRay(Financial PR/IR-London) Tel: +44 207 138 3204 Tim Blythe [email protected] Megan Ray [email protected]

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Richard D. WilliamsRichard D. Williams, P.Geo

Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) Disclosure

The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside information pursuant to Article 7 of EU Regulation 596/2014 as it forms part of UK domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 as amended.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Caution regarding forward looking statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements, while based on management's best estimates and assumptions at the time such statements are made, are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: risks related to receipt of regulatory approvals, risks related to general economic and market conditions; risks related to the COVID-19 global pandemic and any variants of COVID-19 which may arise; risks related to the availability of financing; the timing and content of upcoming work programmes; actual results of proposed exploration activities; possible variations in Mineral Resources or grade; outcome of the current Feasibility Study; projected dates to commence mining operations; failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents, labour disputes, title disputes, claims and limitations on insurance coverage and other risks of the mining industry; changes in national and local government regulation of mining operations, tax rules and regulations. Although Cornish Metals has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Cornish Metals undertakes no obligation or responsibility to update forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

Appendix

"Cu" means Copper

"grade(s)" means the quantity of ore or metal in a specified quantity of rock

"Indicated Mineral Resource" is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics are estimated with sufficient confidence to allow the application of mining, processing, metallurgical, infrastructure, economic, marketing, legal, environmental, social and governmental factors to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. Geological evidence is derived from adequately detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing and is sufficient to assume geological and grade or quality continuity between points of observation. An Indicated Mineral Resource has a lower level of confidence than that applying to a Measured Mineral Resource and may only be converted to a probable mineral reserve.

"Inferred Mineral Resource" is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of limited geological evidence and sampling. Geological evidence is sufficient to imply but not verify geological and grade or quality continuity. An Inferred Mineral Resource has a lower level of confidence than that applying to an Indicated Mineral Resource and must not be converted to a mineral reserve. It is reasonably expected that the majority of Inferred Mineral Resources could be upgraded to Indicated Mineral Resources with continued exploration. An Inferred Mineral Resource is based on limited information and sampling gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes.

"JORC Code" means the 2012 edition of the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves prepared by the Joint Ore Reserves Committee of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Australian Institute of Geoscientists and Minerals Council of Australia. The JORC Code is an acceptable foreign code for purposes of NI 43-101.

"kt" means thousand tonnes

"Lodes" means a vein of metal ore in the earth

"MRE" means Mineral Resource Estimate

"Mt" means million tonnes

"Sn" means Tin

"Sn Eq" means Tin Equivalent. SnEq is calculated using the formula: SnEq% = Sn% + (Cu% x 0.314) + (Zn% x 0.087). Cornish Metals has used metal prices of US$24,500/Tonne Sn, US$8,000/Tonne Cu, and US$2,700/Tonne Zn. Assumptions for process recovery are 88.5% for Sn, 85% for Cu and 70% for Zn.

"t" means tonnes;

"Zn" means Zinc

Source: Cornish Metals Inc.
MONTREAL and SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Coveo (Coveo or the Corporation) (TSX: CVO), a leader in AI platforms that enable individualized, connected, and trusted digital experiences at scale with AI search, GenAI answering, and AI recommendations, today announced that Jill Denham was elected to its board of directors for the first time, and announced the voting results for its annual general meeting of shareholders held on September 14, 2023 (the Meeting). The detailed results of the votes held at the Meeting are set out below.

Election of Jill Denham

Coveo is pleased to announce that Jill Denham, a nationally recognized business and finance executive, has joined the Coveo board of directors effective as of today.

With over 20 years of experience in financial services and almost 15 years of experience on public company boards, Jill brings a diverse skillset to Coveos board of directors. Among her past roles, she was head of the Retail Bank at CIBC, with responsibility for the European business of CIBC, and before that held the role of President, Merchant Banking. Jill currently sits on the board of directors of Kinaxis Inc., a supply chain management and sales and operation planning software company, and Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited, the first single-line rail network connecting Canada, the U.S. and Mexico. She also previously served on the board of directors of National Bank of Canada, LifeWorks Inc. (formerly Morneau Sheppell) and Canaccord Genuity (as lead director). Jill holds an HBA from the University of Western Ontario School of Business and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

"Everyone on our board, including myself, is thrilled to have Jill joining" said Louis Tetu, Chairman of the board and Chief Executive Officer of Coveo. "She brings to the board a very varied experience in finance, banking, strategy and technology acquired from a number of executive and director roles held throughout her standout career. Her expertise complements well that of our other board members, and her appointment is key in the context of our objective to have a well-rounded board, which we believe is instrumental to support our ambitious goals here at Coveo".

"I am delighted to have the opportunity to join Coveo's board of directors, especially at such an exciting time" said Jill Denham. "The world has recently woken up to the power of AI, including through the use of large language models, and Coveo is leading the way in the space. There are tremendous opportunities ahead for Coveo, and I am honored to have the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to the board to support the company in capturing those opportunities and achieving its impressive goals".

Results of votes held at the Meeting

Election of Directors

According to votes received, each of the following nine (9) nominees proposed by management was duly elected as a director of the Corporation until the next annual meeting of shareholders, or until such persons successor is elected or appointed, with the following results:

Director # of Votes For % of Votes Cast For # of Votes Against % of Votes Cast Against Louis Tetu 271,599,215 99.91 % 232,586 0.09 % Laurent Simoneau 271,705,414 99.95 % 126,387 0.05 % J. Alberto Yepez 270,794,456 99.62 % 1,037,345 0.38 % Shanti Ariker 271,466,708 99.87 % 365,093 0.13 % Fay Sien Goon 271,713,648 99.96 % 118,153 0.04 % Isaac Kim 271,705,704 99.95 % 126,097 0.05 % Frederic Lalonde 271,100,898 99.73 % 730,903 0.27 % Valery Zamuner 270,489,796 99.51 % 1,342,005 0.49 % Gillian (Jill) Denham 271,830,076 99.99 % 1,725 0.01 %

Appointment of Auditors

According to votes received, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP were duly appointed as auditors of the Corporation at a remuneration to be fixed by the board of directors of the Corporation, with the following results:

# of Votes For % of Votes Cast For # of Votes Withheld % of Votes Cast Withheld PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 270,028,068 99.33 % 1,821,464 0.67 %

About Coveo Solutions Inc.

We believe AI is a competitive imperative to deliver the relevant and effective digital experiences people expect, at scale, while maximizing business outcomes and profitability. Coveo accelerates the adoption of AI platforms in enterprises, helping them deliver individualized, trusted, and connected experiences that lead to exceptional business performance.

The Coveo Relevance Cloud platform is a market-leading AI platform that combines AI search, AI recommendations, GenAI answering, AI models and analytics. Our platform drives personalization and merchandising intelligence in digital experiences across commerce, service, website, and workplace applications. Coveos platform is designed for scale, security and compliance, and can easily integrate into almost any digital user experience a large enterprise delivers with trust. Our platform is cloud-native SaaS, multi-tenant, API-first, and headless.

Coveo has been a pioneer in the application of AI within enterprise digital experiences for more than a decade. Our Coveo Relevance Generative Answering capability, which integrates LLM technology with Coveos platform to feed generative AI with a common, secure unified index and real-time content and embeddings, helps to drive relevance at scale and consistent factuality, with secure and traceable sources of truth across all channels. Specifically, this helps to solve the key challenges of utilizing generative AI for enterprise use cases.

We help hundreds of the worlds leading brands create tangible financial value. We believe our platform is differentiated by its sophisticated applied AI, designed to deliver highly relevant, bespoke digital experiences that drive superior business outcomes. In addition, our platforms scalability, rapid time to value, enterprise-grade security and compliance, and native integrations with other third-party technology applications set us apart. We are a Salesforce Summit ISV Partner, an SAP Endorsed App, and an Adobe Gold Partner.

Coveo is a trademark of Coveo Solutions Inc.

Stay up to date on the latest Coveo news and content by subscribing to the Coveo blog, and following Coveo on LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Contact Information

Paul Moon, Head of Investor Relations[email protected]

Source: Coveo Solutions Inc.
TORONTO, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Culture Days, Canadas annual choose-your-own-adventure of creativity, kicks off Friday, September 22 and continues to October 15. With more than 2,000 free, hands-on activities, events, workshops, and performances registered, Culture Days offers something for everyone. Last year, the incredible variety of programming compelled a record-breaking 3.8 million peopleor 10% of Canada's populationto explore and discover the enrichment arts and culture bring to our lives, communities, and country.

Creativity for everyone, everywhere Nationwide, a network of free workshops, performances, events, presentations, and hands-on activities happen over three weeks in municipalities, towns, and cities across Canada. Options are added to the Culture Days Events Listing daily, with more than 2,000 online and in-person events already registered. Explore the gift of diverse cultures, how creativity and tech intertwine, discover paths to reconciliation, history or heritage, the artistry in nature, how youth are forging new outlets for creativity, dance the night away, celebrate community milestones, or lift your voice. Culture Days is a gateway to a deeper understanding of how art feeds innovation, community, and connection.

Many communities across the country will celebrate Culture Days with hubscollectives of activities concentrated in one area, including Vaughan, ON, Wolfville, NS, East Vancouver, BC, Neepawa, MB, Swift Current, SK, and so many more. With turnkey search options, finding one or many activities to attend is easier than ever, with a robust catalogue of in-person experiences and online events to enjoy from the comfort of home. Start the adventure at culturedays.ca.

September 30, 2023, is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Culture Days has again set aside the date to create space exclusively for events that seek to acknowledge and better understand the history and harms done and engage in actions that advance Truth and Reconciliation as individuals and members of our communities. It's imperative to share First Nations, Metis, and Inuit experiences and perspectives and to celebrate Indigenous people's creative and cultural expressions, stories, and communities. Visit the dedicated National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Resource to learn more and find events marking the day.

Celebrate CreativityFinding one or many activities to participate in is easier than ever with user-friendly search options and an innovative Collections feature that allows you to curate a list of must-see/do events and programs. Create an account today to get started, and visit the resource links below or culturedays.ca to discover more.

Explore more about Culture Days History & How it Works, Frequently Asked Questions, and our Event Organizer Guide. Find 2023 Campaign social media and marketing tools, subscribe to our newsletter, and follow us @CultureDays across all platforms.

Media & Gallery | Blog | Research | Learn More

Create with us! #CultureDays and @culturedays on Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

About Culture Days Culture Days has become the largest cultural event in Canada, attracting millions of annual attendees to thousands of free activities and performances hosted by artists, cultural organizations and municipalities in hundreds of communities across Canada. Culture Days programs invite the public to get hands-on and behind-the-scenes to highlight the importance of arts and culture by connecting communities and creators.

The Culture Days national office works with provincial partners and a wide network of event organizers, from grassroots community volunteers to major institutions. As a leading national voice for an active and engaged cultural life, Culture Days provides a range of tools and skill development resources that lead to greater cultural engagement. Culture Days is a registered charity, visit culturedays.ca for more information and to donate.

Financial support for Culture Days is provided by the Government of Canada through the Department of Canadian Heritage and the Canada Council for the Arts. Culture Days is also made possible through the support of Pattison (National Out-of-home Media Partner), Cineplex Media (National Media Partner), CBC (National Broadcast Partner), and BT/A (National Creative Partner).

For media inquiries, please contact:Mercedes Blackwood | 416.557.3361 | [email protected]

Source: Culture Days
Policy changes include stricter prohibitions on faculty-student romantic and sexual relationships, enhanced training for employees, and additional procedural safeguards in Masons Title IX Process

ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Elyse Dorsey, Esq. and Angela Landry, Esq. today commended George Mason University (Mason) on a range of efforts to address and strengthen the prevention of sexual misconduct. Ms. Dorsey and Ms. Landry are graduates of George Masons Antonin Scalia Law School and worked with Mason to help inform the changes.



No person should be denied the benefits of a Mason experience because of their sex, or face discrimination or sexual harassment, said Ms. Dorsey. We commend Mason for taking important steps to expand its commitment to protect students and employees from sexual discrimination and harassment.

The following are among the changes that Mason is implementing, some of which were announced in August:

Mason has revised its policy regarding romantic and sexual relationships between employees and students to expand and more clearly define when such relationships are prohibited and to explicitly prohibit attempts to initiate such relationships. In addition, the policy also states that violations will result in discipline up to and including termination.

Mason requires that all employees take a training on its revised prohibited relationships policy and requires all employees to certify that they understand the revised policy, are in compliance with the policy, and will comply with it going forward.

Mason will continue to inform students of its prohibited relationships policy and provide resources and reporting options via postings on campus and email communications throughout the year.

Mason will enhance the training and resources (including allocating appropriate time during work hours) for its internal Title IX advisors who provide support for individuals seeking to engage with or already involved in the Title IX process.

Mason will establish a formal channel to seek feedback from individuals who engage with the Title IX office at the conclusion of their matter for continued improvement.

Mason will continue to use neutral external hearing officers for its Title IX hearings and will ensure that neutrality is a paramount selection criteria when choosing future hearing officers.

Not all students have known where to turn for advice about discrimination or have confidence that they will get the help they need, said Ms. Landry. We are hopeful that these changes at Mason will assure individuals that the university has increased protections in place, resources for those who may experience discrimination, and that the school takes their concerns seriously, she concluded.

Ms. Dorsey and Ms. Landry reported sexual misconduct in late 2021 and early 2022. It has been previously reported in the media that, at the conclusion of an exhaustive investigation into allegations of misconduct, Professor Joshua D. Wright resigned his tenured position rather than face a termination proceeding.

Power dynamics at work or in school are real, added Russell Kornblith, Partner and General Counsel of Sanford Heisler Sharp, LLP and an attorney for Ms. Dorsey and Ms. Landry. We are pleased to see Mason taking steps to strengthen guardrails on relationships and to protect against the possibility of abuse. We are proud to have assisted our clients in sharing their experiences and informing these changes, he said.

About Sanford Heisler Sharp

Sanford Heisler Sharp is a public interest and civil rights law firm with offices in New York, Washington, DC, San Francisco, Palo Alto, Atlanta, Baltimore, Nashville, and San Diego. The firm focuses on employment discrimination, Title IX, wage and hour, whistleblower and qui tam, criminal/sexual violence, financial services, and Asian American litigation and finance matters. Our lawyers have recovered over $1 billion for our clients through many verdicts and settlements.

In 2022, The National Law Journal named Sanford Heisler Sharp Civil Rights Firm of the Year, and it recognized the firm in 2021 as both the Employment Rights Firm of the Year and the Human Rights Firm of the Year. Law360 recognized the firm as Employment Practice Group of the Year in 2021, 2019, 2018, and 2016. Benchmark Litigation recognized the firm as the Labor & Employment Firm of the Year in 2021 and 2020.

For the latest news about Sanford Heisler Sharp, visit the firms newsroom or follow the firm on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter.

If you have potential legal claims and are seeking counsel, please call 646-768-7070 or email [email protected]. Attorneys at Sanford Heisler Sharp would like to have the opportunity to help you.

For more information, contact Jamie Moss, newsPRos, at 201-788-0142 or [email protected].
Startups From Around the World Are Encouraged to Apply for Round Seven if Their Technology Leverages Optics, Photonics, or Imaging

OPI Accelerator Competition is Supported Through Finger Lakes Forward  The Regions Comprehensive Strategy to Revitalize Communities and Grow the Economy

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Empire State Development (ESD) today announced that Luminate NYthe worlds largest business accelerator for startup companies that have optics, photonics, and imaging (OPI) enabled technologiesis now accepting applications for its seventh cohort. Each year, the accelerator brings ten visionary companies to the Finger Lakes Region to leverage a rich ecosystem of resources to speed the commercialization of emerging technologies within a range of industries, such as autonomous vehicles, quantum computing, communications, advanced manufacturing, robotics, and augmented reality.

The 64 companies currently in Luminate NYs portfolio are speeding the commercialization of industry-changing technologies and businesses by leveraging the rich resources that help make New York State the OPI capital of the world, said Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight. We encourage startups to join this diverse group of fast-growing companiesnow valued at more than $650 millionby applying to the Luminate accelerator to take advantage of all that New York has to offer.

The companies selected to take part in round seven of Luminate NY will compete for one of 10 available slots and will each receive $100,000 upon acceptance. At the completion of the program, the teams will compete for a total of $2 million in follow-on funding, including a $1 million investment to the winning team and other investments totaling an additional $1 million. Teams winning follow-on funding must commit to doing some aspect of their business operations or manufacturing in the region for at least 18 months.

Applicants for Luminate NY must be incorporated, have at least two full-time employees, and should have proven their core technology, preferably having developed a working prototype. Once admitted, companies will receive assistance, including capital, access to comprehensive lab facilities for technology development, education, and business mentoring. Applications will be accepted now through January 8, 2023.

Dr. Sujatha Ramanujan, Managing Director, Luminate NY said, Luminate is proven to accelerate the trajectory of early-stage companies by providing founders with the mentorship, curriculum, and vetted vendors they need to de-risk both their businesses and technology development. We encourage founders located everywhere to sign up for one of our informational sessions to learn more about the many ways we can help startups tackle challenges and move forward.

Luminate NY is funded by the transformative Finger Lakes Forward Upstate Revitalization Initiative, a comprehensive strategy to foster economic development and revitalize communities, and is administered by NextCorps. Located in Rochester, NY, the Luminate accelerator provides immediate funding paired with a six-month hybrid mentoring program to help new companies scale both their businesses and technologies. Program participation includes both virtual and in-person events.

The start of recruitment period comes just weeks before Luminate NYs sixth cohort of companies competes for $2 million in follow-on funding during Luminate Finals 2023 on September 27, 2023. For the third year in a row, Optica is sponsoring finals, which will take place online via Zoom and in person at The Theatre at Innovation Square in Rochester, NY, at 11:30 a.m. EDT. Attendees can register for the free event here. In addition to seeing the teams compete for funding, the public will vote for their favorite startup, which will be awarded $10,000 as part of the annual New York State competition.

The Finger Lakes Region is home to an incredibly rich ecosystem for forward-thinking entrepreneurs who are looking to grow their business. Rochester offers the American Institute for Manufacturing Integrated Photonics Test, Assembly, and Packaging facility at Eastman Business Park, the University of Rochesters Institute of Optics, the Rochester Institute of Technology, and more than 150 local OPI companies which employ more than 17,000 employees who are building on the regions legacy as a global imaging leader.

State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, Luminate NY is the future of startup companies across the Greater Rochester and Finger Lakes region. Their innovative approach to optics, photonics and imaging industries is helping to lay the foundation for new businesses to thrive in their early stages, stimulating New Yorks economy for years to come. I support and encourage anyone embarking on a business venture to apply to this program and be a part of Rochesters flourishing OPI industry.

Assemblymember Harry Bronson said, The Luminate NY Accelerator Program attracts the most dynamic light technology startups from across the globe; shining a spotlight on our community as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. This years finalists represent another round of innovations that will advance our optics, photonics and imaging industries. Their ingenuity and creativity will continue to bring job opportunities and investments to our region. We must meet their vision and successes with equitable workforce development programs that not only support emerging and expanding industries, but also provide career pathways for all members of our community.

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello said, Monroe County and the Finger Lakes Region is fast becoming a national leader in the high-tech optics, photonics and imaging industries, thanks in part to the Luminate NY business competition providing critical early support for entrepreneurs. Round 7 of this competition will continue to jumpstart the businesses of tomorrow and position our community as a global leader in the light-based products and services sector. Thank you to Gov. Kathy Hochul, Finger Lakes Forward and Empire State Development for continuing these key investments that boost our local economy.

Rochester Mayor Malik Evans said, "Rochester has some of the most innovative, inventive and generous minds focused on optics, photonics and imaging collected in one community. The wealth of wisdom and support here in Rochester offers unparalleled opportunities for early-stage companies to take their ideas to the next level."

For additional information about Luminate NY, visit: https://luminate.org/.

To register for an informational session about Luminate NY, visit: Information Sessions.

For additional information about NextCorps, visit: https://nextcorps.org/.

Accelerating Finger Lakes Forward Todays announcement complements Finger Lakes Forward, the regions comprehensive strategy to generate robust economic growth and community development. The regionally designed plan focuses on investing in key industries including photonics, agriculture and food production, and advanced manufacturing. More information is available here.

About Empire State DevelopmentEmpire State Development (ESD) is New Yorks chief economic development agency (www.esd.ny.gov). The mission of ESD is to promote a vigorous and growing economy, encourage the creation of new job and economic opportunities, increase revenues to the State and its municipalities, and achieve stable and diversified local economies. Through the use of loans, grants, tax credits and other forms of financial assistance, ESD strives to enhance private business investment and growth to spur job creation and support prosperous communities across New York State. ESD is also the primary administrative agency overseeing the Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of I LOVE NY", the States iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov.

Contact:Shari Voorhees-Vincent | [email protected] | (585) 399-7055Press Office | [email protected] | (800) 260-7313Shannon Wojcik | Luminate | [email protected] | (585) 831-6267

Source: Luminate
On 14 September 2023, Enefit Green signed a 180 million loan agreement with European Investment Bank (EIB) to finance its ongoing investment programme. The term of the concluded contract is 12 years.



Enefit Green will use the loan capital for the construction of the Sopi-Tootsi wind farm in Estonia. Sopi-Tootsi wind farm is the largest wind farm under construction in Estonia with a capacity of 255 MW. After its completion in 2025, this wind farm will cover approximately 40% of annual electricity consumption of Estonian households.

Enefit Green is currently constructing five wind and three solar farms in Estonia, Lithuania, Poland and Finland with a total capacity of 608 MW. In 2023, Purtse hybrid wind and solar farm in Estonia and the Zambrow solar farm in Poland with a total capacity of 62MW have been completed and put into operation. During the upcoming six months, 43 MW Silale II and 75 MW Akmene wind farms in Lithuania, 72MW Tolpanvaara wind farm in Finland, 6MW Debnik and 3MW Estonia solar farm in Poland and Estonia, respectively, are expected to be completed.





Further information:

Sven Kunsing

Head of Finance Communications

[email protected]

https://enefitgreen.ee/en/investorile/

Enefit Green is one of the leading diversified renewable energy producers in the Baltic Sea area. The Company operates wind farms in Estonia and Lithuania, cogeneration plants in Estonia and Latvia, solar farms in Estonia and Poland, a pellet plant in Latvia and a hydroelectric plant in Estonia. In addition, the Company is developing several wind and solar farms in the mentioned countries and Finland. As of the end of 2022, the Company had a total installed electricity production capacity of 457 MW and a total installed heat production capacity of 81 MW. During 2022, the Company produced 1,118 GWh of electricity, 565 GWh of heat energy and 154 thousand tonnes of wood pellets.










NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In conjunction with Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15  Oct. 15), Biz2Credit will host an online forum on Thursday, Sept. 21 , at 12 Noon (EDT) / 9:00 a.m. (PDT) featuring Congressman Henry Cuellar (D, TX-28) to examine the success of Latino-owned businesses in the past year.



This special event coincides with the release of Biz2Credits annual Latino-Owned Business Study, which looked at the revenues, expenses, earnings, and credit scores of this growing force in the U.S. economy. The study analyzed the proprietary data of more than 55,000 companies that applied for funding via Biz2Credits online platform in the past 12 months. To register for this free event on Thursday, Sept. 21 , click here.

We are thrilled that Congressman Cuellar is able to join us for a lively discussion of the current state of Latino-owned businesses in the U.S., Biz2Credit CEO Rohit Arora, one of the countrys leading experts in small business finance, who will host the discussion.

At a time when many business owners are finding it challenging to gain access to financing, we look forward to hearing insights on whats going on in the halls of Congress to help businesses to secure capital during these turbulent economic times, Arora added.

Congressman Henry Cuellar believes in banking and loan regulatory policies that eliminate unnecessary constraints that hinder small financial institutions from providing funding to entrepreneurs. To supplement private funding resources, he advocates providing sources of federal funding for small businesses. The Congressman also supports funding of Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) that provide local, in-person counseling and training services for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs nationwide.

South Texas is home to many Latino-owned small businesses. They are crucial drivers of our local, state, and national economies. I am eager to discuss how federal legislative action can enable Latino-owned small businesses to continue to thrive in our country, said U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (D, TX-28).

Congressman Cuellar also ensured additional funding to the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund, which facilitates access to investment capital and financial services that underserved communities need to prosper. He supports privately owned businesses and the entrepreneurial spirit that defines South Texas.

About Biz2Credit

Founded in 2007, Biz2Credit has arranged more than $7 billion in small business financing. The company is expanding its industry leading Biz2X technology in custom digital platform solutions for banks and other financial institutions, investors, and service providers. Visit www.biz2credit.com or Twitter @Biz2Credit, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Financial calendar 2024 for The BANK of Greenland





Annual Report 2023



27 February 2024



Annual general meeting in Nuuk



20 March 2024



Interim Report  First Quarter 2024



13 May 2024



Interim Report  First Half 2024



21 August 2024



Interim Report  First Nine Months 2024



06 November 2024

After the release of the result, the reports will be available on The BANK of Greenlands website, www.banken.gl

Best Regards

The BANK of Greenland

Contact: General Manager Martin Kviesgaard, tel.: +299 34 78 02

Attachment
SINGAPORE, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- OKX, a leading Web3 technology company, has issued updates for September 14, 2023.

OKX hosts panel at Token2049 conference

OKX hosted a speaking panel at its OKX Web3 Party during the Token2049 conference this week. The industry leading panelists explored strategies to drive responsible growth of the wider Web3 ecosystem. Areas of focus included improving accessibility and usability of Web3 technologies, enhancing transparency and security for users, and fostering collaboration across blockchain projects and companies.

Panelists included:

OKX Chief Innovation Officer, Jason Lau

OKX Web3 Wallet Product Lead, Aaron Han

Polygon Labs Ecosystem Business Development Head, Aishwary Gupta

Ethereum Foundation Security Fellow, Yoav Weiss and Orbiter Head of Business Development, Gwen Zheng

For further information, please contact:

[email protected]

About OKX

OKX is a leading global crypto exchange and innovative Web3 company. Trusted by more than 50 million global users, OKX is known for being the fastest and most reliable crypto trading app for traders everywhere.

As a top partner of English Premier League champions Manchester City FC, McLaren Formula 1, Olympian Scotty James, and F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo, OKX aims to supercharge the fan experience with new engagement opportunities. OKX is also the top partner of the Tribeca Festival as part of an initiative to bring more creators into web3.

The OKX Wallet is the platform's latest offering for people looking to explore the world of NFTs and the metaverse while trading GameFi and DeFi tokens.

OKX is committed to transparency and security and publishes its Proof of Reserves on a monthly basis.

To learn more about OKX, download our app or visit: okx.com

Disclaimer

This announcement is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide any investment, tax, or legal advice, nor should it be considered an offer to purchase, sell, hold or offer any services relating to digital assets. Digital assets, including stablecoins, involve a high degree of risk, can fluctuate greatly, and can even become worthless. You should carefully consider whether trading or holding digital assets is suitable for you in light of your financial condition and risk tolerance. OKX does not provide investment or asset recommendations. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions, and OKX is not responsible for any potential losses. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please consult your legal/tax/investment professional for questions about your specific circumstances.

Source: OKX
Drill Highlights:

GD-23-173 intercepted Visible Gold and significant quartz-sulphide mineralization in 2 broad mineralized intervals. The main interval corresponds to the Surebet Zone and was intersected from 45.11 to 72.00 meters. The main intercept consists of 14.68 g/t AuEq (5.81 g/t Au and 719.13 g/t Ag) over 26.89 meters (approx. true width) including 23.89 g/t AuEq (9.40 g/t Au and 1176.14 g/t Ag) over 15.49 meters and 33.02 g/t AuEq (10.97 g/t Au and 1817.34 g/t Ag) over 9.60 meters. A 9.27-meter interval from the deeper high grade Bonanza Shear intercepted from 446 to 455.27 meters that contains Visible Gold and abundant semi-massive and stringer galena, sphalerite, pyrrhotite and chalcopyrite (assays pending). An accompanying infographic is available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c2537855-9536-4a14-a7fb-575809d92d0f



GD-23-116 intercepted 3 intervals with significant quartz-sulphide mineralization as massive to semi-massive and stockwork galena, sphalerite, pyrrhotite, chalcopyrite and pyrite. The main intercept between 38 and 42 meters corresponds to the Surebet Zone, a second interval from 104 to 107 meters corresponds to a Surebet splay and the third interval corresponds to the Bonanza Shear from 513 to 516.64 meters. The main intercept consists of 11.86 g/t AuEq (8.92 g/t Au and 147.53 g/t Ag) over 3.00 meters* within 8.94 g/t AuEq (6.75 g/t Au and 73.10 g/t Ag) over 4.00 meters*. A second mineralized interval consists of 5.11 g/t AuEq (2.39 g/t Au and 219.00 g/t Ag) over 3.00 meters*. The third interval consists of 5.77 g/t AuEq (4.70 g/t Au and 29.93 g/t Ag) over 3.64 meters* interpreted as the Bonanza Shear. An accompanying infographic is available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/219b2293-3b67-423b-8e12-87749676a45e



GD-23-151 intercepted 3 mineralized intervals. The first two intercepts were intersected from 79.15 to 81.85 meters and 99.15 to 168.38 meters and are interpreted to be a Surebet Splay and Surebet Zone, respectively. One intercept of the Bonanza Shear was intersected from 475.41 to 502.00 meters. The main intercept corresponds to the Surebet Zone and consists of 8.28 g/t AuEq (7.25 g/t Au and 51.81 g/t Ag) over 2.70 meters* within 3.77 g/t AuEq (3.32 g/t Au and 23.07 g/t Ag) over 6.70 meters* within 2.93 g/t AuEq (2.56 g/t Au and 18.64 g/t Ag) over 8.85 meters* and within 1.05 g/t AuEq (0.89 g/t Au and 8.21 g/t Ag) over 29.85 meters*. Assays are pending on a 26.59 meter* interval from the lower high grade Bonanza Shear consisting of abundant stockwork, stringer and massive galena, sphalerite and pyrrhotite. Mineralization in the gold-rich intercepts consists of stockwork to stringer and massive sulphides with up to 1% sphalerite, 1% galena and 10% pyrrhotite, and includes one occurrence of Visible Gold at a depth of 143.85 meters (Surebet Zone). An accompanying infographic is available at:https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d513fa3f-243a-4e09-aa37-8dffe2d6481d



GD-23-135 intercepted Visible Gold and quartz-sulphide mineralization in 3 significant mineralized intervals: The main interval corresponds to the Bonanza Shear and consists of 5.00 meters* of 4.06 g/t AuEq (3.97 g/t Au and 2.08 g/t Ag) within 9.00 meters* of 2.87 g/t AuEq (2.81 g/t Au and 1.70 g/t Ag) and within 19.02 meters* of 1.75 g/t AuEq (1.70 g/t Au and 1.21 g/t Ag). A second interval corresponds to the Surebet Zone and consists of 1.17 meters* of 6.33 g/t AuEq (5.75 g/t Au and 32.50 g/t Ag) within 3.17 meters* of 3.31 g/t AuEq (2.82 g/t Au and 25.59 g/t Ag). The last interval is most likely a splay off the Surebet Zone and consists of 2.00 meters* of 4.41 g/t AuEq (2.76 g/t Au and 76.70 g/t Ag) within 4.76 meters* of 2.09 g/t AuEq (1.22 g/t Au and 39.16 g/t Ag). An accompanying infographic is available at:https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ddba0137-792e-49e7-b3a1-7bd23a396b07

All the occurrences of Visible Gold to date have been consistently identified within quartz-breccia and veins in contact with or in close proximity to pyrrhotite, sphalerite and/or galena mineralization.

Based on 2021 and 2022 drill assay results, the Bonanza Shear and Surebet Zone are currently modeled to be >13,000,000 m 3 (Avg. 5.31 meters* @ 2.7 AuEq) and 5,500,000 m 3 (Avg. 6.88 meters* @ 6.31 g/t AuEq) respectively (see model below). An accompanying infographic is available at:https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8d1a6287-6396-464b-b3be-b664f35ded90



TORONTO, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Goliath Resources Limited (TSX-V: GOT) (OTCQB: GOTRF) (FSE: B4IF) (the Company or Goliath) is pleased to report assay results for drill holes GD-23-173, GD-23-116, GD-23-151, and GD-23-135 from the Golden Gate Feeder Zone at its 100% controlled Golddigger Property (the Property), Golden Triangle, B.C. All four holes intersected broad intervals of significant quartz-sulphide mineralization and widespread Visible Gold occurrences.

Hole GD-23-173 intersected Visible Gold and abundant sulphide mineralization hosted in quartz stockwork and quartz breccia veins in 2 intervals comprising the Surebet Zone from 45.11 to 72 meters (a 26.89 meter interval  approx. true width) and the Bonanza Shear from 446 to 455.27 meters (9.27 meter* interval). The main mineralized intercept (corresponding to the Surebet Zone) consists of 33.02 g/t AuEq (10.97 g/t Au and 1817.34 g/t Ag) over 9.60 meters* within 23.89 g/t AuEq (9.40 g/t Au and 1176.14 g/t Ag) over 15.49 meters* within 14.68 g/t AuEq (5.81 g/t Au and 719.13 g/t Ag) over 26.89 meters*. The shallower intercept (Surebet Zone) is hosted in sedimentary units composed of mudstones and siltstones and shows the presence of mineralized stockwork to quartz breccia veins. Mineralization is observed as semi-massive to stringer pyrrhotite (up to 5%), sphalerite (up to 2%), disseminated to patchy galena (

Hole GD-23-116 intersected sulphide mineralization present as massive to stockwork galena, sphalerite, pyrrhotite, chalcopyrite and pyrite in 3 distinct intervals. The shallowest intercept observed between 38 and 42 meters is interpreted as the Surebet Zone and consists of 11.86 g/t AuEq (8.92 g/t Au and 147.53 g/t Ag) over 3.00 meters* within 8.94 g/t AuEq (6.75 g/t Au and 73.10 g/t Ag) over 4.00 meters*. The second mineralized interval interpreted as a splay of the main Surebet Zone was found from 104 to 107 meters and consists of 5.11 g/t AuEq (2.39 g/t Au and 219.00 g/t Ag) over 3.00 meters*. The deepest intercept interpreted as Bonanza Shear was intersected between 513 and 516/64 meters and consists of 5.77 g/t AuEq (4.70 g/t Au and 29.93 g/t Ag) over 3.64 meters*. The Surebet Zone intercept is hosted in siltstone massive to semi-massive and stockwork galena (2%), sphalerite (5%), pyrrhotite (10%) and pyrite (2%). The Surebet splay is hosted in sandstone and shows the presence of galena (

Hole GD-23-151 intercepted quartz-sulphide mineralization in 3 mineralized intervals (corresponding from top to bottom to a Surebet splay, Surebet Zone and Bonanza Shear). The first interval corresponds to a splay of the Surebet zone and consists of 2.36 g/t AuEq (1.40 g/t Au and 48.12 g/t Ag) over 2.70 meters* within 1.32 g/t AuEq (0.78 g/t Au and 26.98 g/t Ag) over 5.00 meters*. The second (and main) intercept corresponds to the Surebet Zone and consists of 8.28 g/t AuEq (7.25 g/t Au and 51.81 g/t Ag) over 2.70 meters* within 3.77 g/t AuEq (3.32 g/t Au and 23.07 g/t Ag) over 6.70 meters* within 2.93 g/t AuEq (2.56 g/t Au and 18.64 g/t Ag) over 8.85 meters* and within 1.05 g/t AuEq (0.89 g/t Au and 8.21 g/t Ag) over 29.85 meters*. A third interval corresponds to the Bonanza Shear and assays are currently pending. A 0.5-millimeter-wide flake of visible gold was identified at a depth of 143.85 m, hosted in a quartz breccia vein associated with pyrrhotite and sphalerite mineralization. Sulphide-rich quartz breccia and veins interpreted as part of the Surebet Zone were intersected starting from 79.15 to 81.85 meters (Surebet splay) and continued in an extensive interval from 99.15 to 168.38 meters hosted in siltstones interbedded with mudstones (Surebet Zone). The observed mineralization ranges from stringers to stockwork and massive pyrrhotite (up to 10 %), sphalerite (up to 1 %) and galena (up to 1 %) with minor concentrations of chalcopyrite. One prominently mineralized interval interpreted to be part of the Bonanza Shear was recovered from a depth of 475.41 to 502 meters. Mineralization in this interval is expressed by disseminated to massive pyrrhotite, pyrite and sphalerite. Assays for the deepest interval are pending and will be reported once received.

Hole GD-23-135 intercepted Visible Gold and quartz-sulphide mineralization in three significant intervals. The main interval corresponds to the Bonanza Shear and consists of 5.00 meters* of 4.06 g/t AuEq (3.97 g/t Au and 2.08 g/t Ag) within 9.00 meters* of 2.87 g/t AuEq (2.81 g/t Au and 1.70 g/t Ag) and within 19.02 meters* of 1.75 g/t AuEq (1.70 g/t Au and 1.21 g/t Ag). A second interval corresponds to the Surebet Zone and consists of 1.17 meters* of 6.33 g/t AuEq (5.75 g/t Au and 32.50 g/t Ag) within 3.17 meters* of 3.31 g/t AuEq (2.82 g/t Au and 25.59 g/t Ag). The last interval is most likely a splay off the Surebet Zone and consists of 2.00 meters* of 4.41 g/t AuEq (2.76 g/t Au and 76.70 g/t Ag) within 4.76 meters* of 2.09 g/t AuEq (1.22 g/t Au and 39.16 g/t Ag). The hole intersected a series of interlayered sedimentary units consisting of mudstone, siltstone, and sandstone with minor volcanic tuff. Visible gold was found at 61.00 meters. Quartz-sulphide breccia intervals were intersected between 54 and 61 meters (Surebet splay), 102 and 106 meters (Surebet Zone) and between 387 and 406.00 meters (Bonanza Shear). Mineralization consists of stringers and aggregations of sphalerite (up to 1 %), galena (up to 1 %), chalcopyrite (up to 1 %) and pyrrhotite (up to 2 %).

Table 1: Selected 2023 Golddigger drill hole assay results.

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (%) Pb (%) Zn (%) AuEq (g/t) GD-23-116 Interval 38.00 42.00 4.00 6.75 73.10 0.02 0.02 0.00 8.94 Including 38.00 41.00 3.00 8.92 147.53 0.09 1.70 1.23 11.86 Interval 104.00 107.00 3.00 2.39 219.00 0.02 0.12 0.16 5.11 Interval 513.00 516.64 3.64 4.70 29.93 0.03 0.97 0.86 5.77 GD-23-135 Interval 54.80 66.00 11.20 0.58 20.73 0.01 0.26 0.33 1.07 Including 59.00 63.76 4.76 1.22 39.16 0.02 0.50 0.53 2.09 Including 59.00 61.00 2.00 2.76 76.70 0.02 0.98 0.97 4.41 Interval 100.00 113.62 13.62 0.86 9.74 0.01 0.03 0.08 1.03 Including 100.00 105.17 5.17 1.82 22.16 0.01 0.08 0.20 2.20 Including 102.00 105.17 3.17 2.82 25.59 0.01 0.13 0.31 3.31 Including 104.00 105.17 1.17 5.75 32.50 0.02 0.13 0.32 6.33 Interval 141.52 148.85 7.33 0.41 8.19 0.00 0.06 0.13 0.58 Including 144.00 145.70 1.70 1.19 8.13 0.00 0.06 0.26 1.42 Including 144.86 145.70 0.84 1.61 6.72 0.00 0.08 0.32 1.85 Interval 388.15 407.17 19.02 1.70 1.21 0.00 0.00 0.06 1.75 Including 397.00 406.00 9.00 2.81 1.70 0.00 0.00 0.10 2.87 Including 397.00 404.00 7.00 3.32 2.00 0.00 0.00 0.12 3.40 Including 397.00 402.00 5.00 3.97 2.08 0.00 0.00 0.15 4.06 Interval 430.00 432.00 2.00 0.39 1.07 0.01 0.00 0.02 0.42 Including 430.00 431.00 1.00 0.67 1.02 0.01 0.00 0.03 0.70 GD-23-151 Interval 99.15 129 29.85 0.89 8.21 0.01 0.08 0.06 1.05 Including 99.15 108.00 8.85 2.56 18.64 0.01 0.21 0.17 2.93 Including 100.30 107.00 6.70 3.32 23.07 0.01 0.26 0.19 3.77 Including 100.30 103.00 2.70 7.25 51.81 0.02 0.63 0.44 8.28 GD-23-173 Interval 45.11 72.00 26.89 5.81 719.13 0.03 0.50 0.39 14.68 Including 46.26 61.75 15.49 9.40 1176.14 0.05 0.81 0.60 23.89 Including 51.00 60.60 9.60 10.97 1817.34 0.05 0.73 0.60 33.02

Table 2: Collar information for the drill hole reported in this news release.

Drillhole Name Easting Northing CRS Azimuth Dip Length (m) GD-23-116 457720.7 6162966 NAD83 UTM Z9N 130 63 532 GD-23-135 457712.0 6162910 NAD83 UTM Z9N 160 55 521 GD-23-151 457717.5 6162967 NAD83 UTM Z9N 215 55 555 GD-23-173 457717.2 6162968 NAD83 UTM Z9N 235 85 473

Golddigger Property

The Golddigger Property is 100 % controlled covering an area of 59,089 hectares (146,012 acres) and is in the world class geological setting of the Eskay Rift within the Golden Triangle of British Columbia and within 3 kilometers of the Red Line that is host to multiple world class deposits. The Surebet discovery has exceptional metallurgy with gold recoveries of 92.2% inclusive of 48.8% free gold from gravity alone at a 327-micrometer crush. Its is in an excellent location close in proximity to the communities of Alice Arm and Kitsault where there is permitted mill site on private property. It is situated on tide water with direct barge access to Prince Rupert (190 kilometers via the Observatory inlet/Portland inlet). The town of Kitsault is accessible by road (190 kilometers from Terrace, 300 kilometers from Prince Rupert) and has a barge landing, dock, and infrastructure capable of housing at least 300 people, including high-tension power. Additional infrastructure in the area includes the Dolly Varden Silver Mine Road (only 7 kilometers to the East of the Surebet discovery) with direct road access to Alice Arm barge landing (18 kilometers to the south of the Surebet discovery) and high-tension power (25 kilometers to the East of Surebet discovery). The city of Terrace (population 16,000) provides access to railway, major highways, and airport with supplies (food, fuel, lumber, etc.), while the town of Prince Rupert (population 12,000) is located on the west coast and houses an international container seaport also with direct access to railway and an airport with supplies.

Qualified Person

Rein Turna P. Geo is the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, for Goliath Resource Limited projects, and supervised the preparation of, and has reviewed and approved, the technical information in this release.

Other

Oriented HQ-diameter or NQ-diameter diamond drill core from the drill campaign is placed in core boxes by the drill crew contracted by the Company. Core boxes are transported by helicopter to the staging area, and then transported by truck to the core shack. The core is then re-orientated, meterage blocks are checked, meter marks are labelled, Recovery and RQD measurements taken, and primary bedding and secondary structural features including veins, dykes, cleavage, and shears are noted and measured. The core is then described and transcribed in MX DepositTM. Drill holes were planned using Leapfrog GeoTM and QGISTM software and data from the 2017-2022 exploration campaigns. Drill core containing quartz breccia, stockwork, veining and/or sulphide(s), or notable alteration are sampled in lengths of 0.5 to 1.5 meters. Core samples are cut lengthwise in half, one-half remains in the box and the other half is inserted in a clean plastic bag with a sample tag. Standards, blanks and duplicates were added in the sample stream at a rate of 10%.

Grab, channels, chip and talus samples were collected by foot with helicopter assistance. Prospective areas included, but were not limited to, proximity to MINFile locations, placer creek occurrences, regional soil anomalies, and potential gossans based on high-resolution satellite imagery. The rock grab and chip samples were extracted using a rock hammer, or hammer and chisel to expose fresh surfaces and to liberate a sample of anywhere between 0.5 to 5.0 kilograms. All sample sites were flagged with biodegradable flagging tape and marked with the sample number. All sample sites were recorded using hand-held GPS units (accuracy 3-10 meters) and sample ID, easting, northing, elevation, type of sample (outcrop, subcrop, float, talus, chip, grab, etc.) and a description of the rock were recorded on all-weather paper. Samples were then inserted in a clean plastic bag with a sample tag for transport and shipping to the geochemistry lab. QA/QC samples including blanks, standards, and duplicate samples were inserted regularly into the sample sequence at a rate of 10%.

All samples are transported in rice bags sealed with numbered security tags. A transport company takes them from the core shack to the ALS labs facilities in North Vancouver. ALS is either certified to ISO 9001:2008 or accredited to ISO 17025:2005 in all of its locations. At ALS samples were processed, dried, crushed, and pulverized before analysis using the ME-MS61 and Au-SCR21 methods. For the ME-MS61 method, a prepared sample is digested with perchloric, nitric, hydrofluoric, and hydrochloric acids. The residue is topped up with dilute hydrochloric acid and analyzed by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. Overlimits were re-analyzed using the ME-OG62 and Ag-GRA21 methods (gravimetric finish). For Au-SCR21 a large volume of sample is needed (typically 1-3kg). The sample is crushed and screened (usually to -106 micron) to separate coarse gold particles from fine material. After screening, two aliquots of the fine fraction are analysed using the traditional fire assay method. The fine fraction is expected to be reasonably homogenous and well represented by the duplicate analyses. The entire coarse fraction is assayed to determine the contribution of the coarse gold.

The reader is cautioned that grab samples are spot samples which are typically, but not exclusively, constrained to mineralization. Grab samples are selective in nature and collected to determine the presence or absence of mineralization and are not intended to be representative of the material sampled.

About Goliath Resources Limited

Goliath Resources Limited is an explorer of precious metals projects in the prolific Golden Triangle of northwestern British Columbia and Abitibi Greenstone Belt of Quebec. All of its projects are in world class geological settings and geopolitical safe jurisdictions amenable to mining in Canada.

For more information please contact: Goliath Resources Limited Mr. Roger Rosmus Founder and CEO Tel: +1-416-488-2887[email protected] www.goliathresourcesltd.com

* Widths are reported in drill core lengths and the true widths are estimated to be 80-90% and AuEq metal values are calculated using: Au 1644.08 USD/oz, Ag 19.23 USD/oz, Cu 3.47 USD/lbs, Pb 1870.50 USD/ton and Zn 2882.50 USD/ton on October 28, 2022. There is potential for economic recovery of gold, silver, copper, lead, and zinc from these occurrences based on other mining and exploration projects in the same Golden Triangle Mining Camp where Goliaths project is located such as the Homestake Ridge Gold Project (Auryn Resources Technical Report, Updated Mineral Resource Estimate and Preliminary Economic Assessment on the Homestake Ridge Gold Project, prepared by Minefill Services Inc., Bothell, Washington dated May 29, 2020). Here, AuEq values were calculated using 3-year running averages for metal price, and included provisions for metallurgical recoveries, treatment charges, refining costs, and transportation. Recoveries for Gold were 85.5%, Silver at 74.6%, Copper at 74.6% and Lead at 45.3%. It will be assumed that Zinc can be recovered with the Copper at the same recovery rate of 74.6%. The quoted reference of metallurgical recoveries is not from Goliaths Golddigger Project, Surebet Zone mineralization, and there is no guarantee that such recoveries will ever be achieved, unless detailed metallurgical work such as in a Feasibility Study can be eventually completed on the Golddigger Project.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange), nor the OTCQB Venture Market accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on Goliaths current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the ability of the Company to complete financings and its ability to build value for its shareholders as it develops its mining properties. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to Goliath. Although such statements are based on management's reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that the proposed transactions will occur, or that if the proposed transactions do occur, will be completed on the terms described above.

The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof and Goliath is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.

This announcement does not constitute an offer, invitation, or recommendation to subscribe for or purchase any securities and neither this announcement nor anything contained in it shall form the basis of any contract or commitment. In particular, this announcement does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities in the United States, or in any other jurisdiction in which such an offer would be illegal.

The securities referred to herein have not been and will not be will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the U.S. Securities Act), or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to or for the account or benefit of a U.S. person (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN.

Infographic 1 Infographic 1 Infographic 2 Infographic 2 Infographic 3 Infographic 3 Infographic 4 Infographic 4 Infographic 5 Infographic 5

Source: Goliath Resources Limited
The Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) has secured 7 billion ($956.61 million) from the state-run China Development Bank under a loan agreement.
Greenville, SC, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gordian, the leading provider of unrivaled insights, robust technology and comprehensive expertise for all phases of the building lifecycle, announces Harrisburg Housing Authority (HHA) as the 2022 Harry H. Mellon Award of Excellence in Job Order Contracting (JOC) recipient. The honor for exemplary use of JOC includes recognition of both HHA and local contractor Lobar Associates due to time savings, collaboration and community impact throughout the successful, complex $1.2M improvement project.

Its an honor to present the Award of Excellence in Job Order Contracting to Harrisburg Housing Authority and Lobar Associates for their exceptional work, said Kris Gorriaran, President of Gordian. This project impacted hundreds of residents over multiple community complexes in the Harrisburg area. The collaboration between Harrisburg Housing Authority, Lobar Associates and Gordian truly exemplified Job Order Contracting excellence.

JOC is an Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) construction delivery method that allows many projects to be completed through a single, competitively awarded contract. After almost two years of pandemic restrictions and lockdowns, HHA needed to complete a sizable exterior improvement checklist quickly with limited staff. HHA opted to access a Gordian Job Order Contract through the Keystone Purchasing Network (KPN), a Pennsylvania co-op. Work began in less than two months because the KPN JOC program provides local contractors, like Lobar, who are available to start work immediately and have met all Pennsylvania competitive bidding requirements.

Work was completed over several phases and focused on three communities public spaces and building exteriors, as well as a few other scattered sites. This project impacted hundreds of residents over multiple community complexes in the Harrisburg area. Serious improvements were made across three communities comprised of 1,100+ apartments and 80 houses around the city. General upgrades included tree removal, fence and railing repairs, concrete walkway replacements and the renovation of eight playgrounds. The buildings themselves needed attention as well. Lobar used Gordians JOC to repair and replace porches, restore siding and soffit and fix up 20-30 entrances per campus.

Their residents now have better maintained homes, nurturing environments where they can raise their children, make memories and thrive. Housing residents beamed over the improvements to the playgrounds, which provide a more welcoming and modern environment where their kids can be kids. Photos of the upgrades and additional details can be found on Gordians website here.

In addition to awarding HHA and Lobar Associates the Award of Excellence, a panel of experts named the following two Award of Merit Winners for demonstration of JOC best practices, innovation, complexity, special circumstances, overall time and cost savings and community impact:

Award of Merit  Bay of Pigs Memorial Park Renovation

Agency: City of Miami

Contractor: Unitech Builders Corp

During 1960 and early 1961, Americas Central Intelligence Agency recruited, trained and equipped more than 1,500 Cuban exiles, who would become known as the 2506 Brigade, to lead a mission to free Cuba from the repressive communist dictatorship of Fidel Castro in an invasion at the Bay of Pigs. Despite the invasions unsuccessful outcome, the 2506 Brigades unwavering dedication and valor deserve our utmost respect and admiration.

To commemorate their bravery, the City of Miami created a dynamic space nestled in the Flagami neighborhood called the Bay of Pigs Memorial Park. The park offers a playground for families to enjoy alongside a monument commemorating the Bay of Pigs Invasion. This $1.2 million renovation project was completed successfully and efficiently thanks to the City of Miami's Gordian JOC program, which is known for its time-saving abilities and collaborative approach. The project, which required a long process of acquiring land and funding, was able to begin construction immediately thanks to the JOC program.

The new park features a stunning monument honoring the brave Cubans who participated in the Bay of Pigs Invasion, as well as new outdoor fitness equipment, a children's playground, a walking path, a drinking fountain, lighting, on-street parking, drainage and sidewalk improvements and new landscaping. These improvements have transformed the park into a green, enjoyable outdoor space for the community and have had a significant positive impact on the local area.

Award of Merit  Atlanta Farmers Market - Building J Structural Design and Repair

Agency: Georgia Department of Agriculture

Contractor: Place Services

During a roof replacement inspection at the Atlanta State Farmers Market, a failure in the CMU block supporting building Js roof was pointed out by a project manager from Place Services. An investigation was initiated to assess the extent of the damage to the structure. It was discovered that the entire south wall, which was built in 1958, was past its life and deteriorating. JOC was utilized to safely and efficiently complete this $402k emergency renovation project due to the high level of collaboration necessary to ensure safety and swift action. The project scope involved laboratory testing, structural engineering, restoration of cracked columns and beams, installation of new roof supporting shoring in the primary work area, reinforcing the CMU and securing brick veneer.

With nearly 100 people frequenting the building daily, the swift action of Georgias Department of Agriculture and Place Services through the use of Gordians JOC program not only saved money but mitigated the great risk to building occupants.

About the Awards

Gordians Job Order Contracting Awards is an annual award program recognizing innovative uses of Job Order Contracting (JOC). Judging is conducted by a panel of JOC experts. Submissions are judged on their adherence to JOC best practices, innovation, complexity, special circumstances and overall time and cost savings. In order to be eligible, projects had to be completed during 2022, and nominations are submitted by agency owners, contractors or Gordian Account Managers. The programs highest honor, The Harry H. Mellon Award of Excellence in Job Order Contracting, is named for Harry H. Mellon, the creator of JOC and founder of Gordian.

About Gordian

Gordian (www.gordian.com) is the leading provider of Building Intelligence Solutions, delivering unrivaled insights, robust technology and comprehensive expertise that fuel customers success during every phase of the building lifecycle. Gordian created Job Order Contracting (JOC) and the industry standard RSMeans Data. Gordian empowers organizations to optimize capital investments, improve project performance and minimize long-term operating expenses.

Attachment
SHENZHEN, China, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In an era where environmental issues are becoming increasingly severe, Shenzhen Huntkey Electric Co., Ltd., a pioneering brand in the electronics industry, has consistently upheld a firm commitment to low-carbon practices. With a profound focus on sustainable development, the company's innovative efforts have garnered acclaim and established a new benchmark for eco-friendly power solutions.



Huntkey's low-carbon strategies exemplify its forward-thinking approach. From product manufacturing, research and development, and testing to packaging, Huntkey's low-carbon practices encompass the entire product lifecycle. Regarding packaging materials, Huntkey strictly controls substances like lead, mercury, and hexavalent cadmium that pose risks to human health and the environment. The raw materials and components used are in compliance with RoHS environmental certification, and excessive packaging is minimized to ensure sustainability.

In terms of functionality, Huntkey's intelligent power strip SST307 incorporates USB charging ports, addressing the issue of redundant charging functionalities. Other sockets from Huntkey, such as SSH608, SSH601-2, and SSH504, feature protection against electric shock, overheating, overcharging, overcurrent, and overload. These safeguards effectively prolong the lifespan of the devices, ensuring the safety of both the electronics and the power strips.

Huntkey's pioneering efforts have garnered widespread attention, earning multiple prestigious awards in the field of sustainable development. For instance, Huntkey was selected for the 2022 Green Manufacturing List by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and was honored with the seventh batch of Green Product accolades. This signifies Huntkey's alignment with the "dual-carbon" objectives, taking a firm step toward promoting industrial green, low-carbon circular transformation and development.

Huntkey leads the electronics industry towards a green future through comprehensive low-carbon strategies, impressive award achievements, and innovative products. The company is dedicated to reducing carbon emissions while delivering cutting-edge electronic products, sending a clear message: environmental responsibility and technological advancement can progress hand in hand.

About Huntkey

Huntkey is a high-tech enterprise headquartered in Shenzhen, China, specializing in researching and producing a wide range of energy-efficient and environmentally friendly power supply products. Huntkey has always been committed to providing users with green and eco-friendly power solutions through technological innovation, and it holds a leading position in China's low-carbon and environmental technology sector.

Media Contact

Company Name: Shenzhen Huntkey Electric Co., Ltd.

Website: https://en.huntkey.com

Telephone: 86-755-8960-6545

Media email: [email protected]

Sales email: [email protected]




Spineway organizes an international masterclass

with expert spine surgeons

Spineway, a specialist in innovative implants for the treatment of severe spine disorders, announces that its Spineway Academy department, with the support of GECO1 (Groupe detudes de la Chirurgie Osseuse  Bone Surgery Study Group) and its SAC (Spine Arthroplasty Community) working group, has organized a masterclass on cervical and lumbar disc prostheses with French and international surgeons. This event was held on September 9 in Behoust (France) and focused on total disc replacement using prostheses.



The event featured some 20 scientific papers and interactive round-table discussions led by opinion-leading surgeons who discussed their respective working practices and philosophies, and their experience with the prostheses used around the world and available in the various markets.

Over 60 French and international participants (USA, Mexico, Germany, UK, Spain, Luxembourg, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, India, Hong Kong, Australia) shared their experiences of disc replacement with cervical and lumbar disc prostheses.

Training at the Institut du Fer Moulin

On Monday September 11, Spineway Academy also held a training session on the implantation of its ESP prostheses at the lInstitut de Fer Moulin.

It gave surgeons from Germany, Thailand and Malaysia the chance to train, practice and work under the guidance of expert surgeons in disc arthroplasty, and in that way to consolidate their practice. Spineway would like to extend particular thanks to the German surgeons who attended the event, and notes that Germany is a strategic market for its premium products such as ESP prostheses.

A department dedicated to scientific exchange and training for surgeons

The Spineway Academy department promotes scientific exchange and has the following main objectives:

Strengthen scientific relations: by sharing experience between peers, encourage the transmission of information so that surgeons can develop their practice (diagnosis, indications, surgical procedure, evaluation and follow-up of results, publications) with the aim of improving post-operative outcomes/satisfaction for their patients.



Organize training sessions: provide training in the use of instruments to support surgeons during their surgical procedures and anticipate the various surgical scenarios they may face so as to secure the procedure for the benefit of the patient.





Since the beginning of the year, the Spineway Academy has trained more than 220 French and international surgeons. These events help promote the visibility of Spineway products and serve to strengthen the Groups reputation across its various geographies.

Next events :

September 19, 2023  H1 2023 results

October 4 to 6, 2023  Eurospine meeting in Frankfurt

October 12, 2023  Q1 2023 revenue

SPINEWAY IS ELIGIBLE FOR PEA-SME (EQUITY SAVINGS PLANS FOR SMES)

Find out all about Spineway at www.spineway.com



This press release has been prepared in both English and French. In case of discrepancies, the French version shall prevail.

Spineway designs, manufactures and markets innovative implants and surgical instruments for treating severe disorders of the spinal column.

Spineway has an international network of over 50 independent distributors and 90% of its revenue comes from exports.

Spineway, which is eligible for investment through FCPIs (French unit trusts specializing in innovation), has received the OSEO Excellence award since 2011 and has won the Deloitte Fast 50 award (2011). Rhone Alpes INPI Patent Innovation award (2013)  INPI Talent award (2015).

ISIN: FR001400BVK2 - ALSPW

Contacts:





SPINEWAY



Shareholder-services line



Available Tuesday through Thursday



+33 (0)806 706 060



Eligible PEA / PME





ALSPW





Euronext Growth





AELIUM



Finance & Communication



Investor relations



Solene Kennis



[email protected]





1 A learned society whose purpose is to organize scientific conferences, publish scientific works, evaluate clinical results and provide medical training.





Attachment
Transforming cryptocurrency insights with AI-powered charting in Telegram. Real-time data, personalized visuals, and profit-sharing with $CX token holders.

Dubai, UAE, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In the dynamic world of cryptocurrencies, where trends can shift in the blink of an eye, having access to accurate and real-time data is crucial for making informed decisions. Enter ChartAI, the groundbreaking cryptocurrency tool that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to bring you instant and personalized charting capabilities right within your Telegram chat.

ChartAI is delighted to announce its innovative solution to the cryptocurrency community, bridging the gap between real-time data and actionable insights. With a mission to empower cryptocurrency enthusiasts, investors, and traders, ChartAI offers a unique and user-friendly experience that puts the power of charting at your fingertips.

What sets ChartAI apart is its ability to understand your needs and preferences. Simply engage with the bot in a private chat, and through its AI-driven algorithms, ChartAI will promptly deliver accurate charts tailored to your specifications. Whether you're tracking the performance of a specific cryptocurrency, evaluating market volatility, or planning your investment strategy, ChartAI transforms raw data into insightful visuals at your command.

No longer constrained by the limitations of desktop software or the need to navigate clunky interfaces, ChartAI brings the power of charting directly to your Telegram conversations. Experience the convenience of on-the-fly chart generation as you discuss market trends with friends, collaborate with fellow investors, or fine-tune your trading strategies in real time.

With ChartAI, you can:

Instant Charting: Access real-time charts within seconds to make timely decisions.

Access real-time charts within seconds to make timely decisions. Personalized Insights: Receive charts tailored to your specific preferences and needs.

Receive charts tailored to your specific preferences and needs. Convenient Accessibility: Enjoy the ease of accessing charts directly in your Telegram chats.

Enjoy the ease of accessing charts directly in your Telegram chats. Collaborative Analysis: Collaborate with peers and experts seamlessly.

Collaborate with peers and experts seamlessly. Informed Trading: Make better-informed trading decisions with ChartAI's assistance.

Welcome to the future of cryptocurrency insights  Welcome to ChartAI.

One of the most exciting aspects of ChartAI is its commitment to rewarding its community. Holders of the $CX token are in for a treat, as 100% of ChartAI's profits generated from its bots will be shared with them. This marks a significant departure from the traditional staking tokenomics, ushering in a new era of passive income for token holders who stand to benefit directly from the project's success.

$CX Tokenomics

Contract Address: 0xee3200F94a1A2345E6Cc486032a5Df1D50cb621c

Symbol: CX

Decimals: 18

Blockchain Network: Ethereum

Total Supply: 1,000,000,000

Transaction Tax: 5%

Embracing Artificial Intelligence for Technical Analysis

One of the standout features of ChartAI is its incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into providing technical analysis via its bot. This revolutionary approach enables users to receive not only charts but also valuable insights and predictions based on sophisticated AI algorithms.

ChartAI's AI-driven technical analysis includes:

Price Predictions: Forecasting future price movements for cryptocurrencies.

Forecasting future price movements for cryptocurrencies. Market Sentiment Analysis: Evaluating market sentiment to gauge potential price shifts.

Evaluating market sentiment to gauge potential price shifts. Pattern Recognition: Identifying key patterns in price charts for predictive analysis.

Identifying key patterns in price charts for predictive analysis. Volatility Assessment: Assessing market volatility to inform trading strategies.

Assessing market volatility to inform trading strategies. Risk Analysis: Evaluating risk factors associated with specific cryptocurrency investments.

ChartAI's AI capabilities empower users with actionable insights, enabling them to make more informed decisions and navigate the complex world of cryptocurrency trading with confidence.

Join ChartAI on Its Journey

ChartAI is not just a tool; it's a community-driven project that seeks to empower cryptocurrency enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you're a seasoned trader or just starting your crypto journey, ChartAI is here to provide you with the tools and insights you need to succeed in the digital asset space.

To learn more about ChartAI and join the community, visit the official website: https://chartai.tech/ .

Stay updated with the latest news and developments by following ChartAI on Twitter: https://twitter.com/chartai_erc and joining the Telegram community: https://t.me/chartai_portal .

Experience the future of cryptocurrency insights with ChartAI, where AI meets crypto, and real-time charting meets Telegram. Chart your course to success with ChartAI.

About ChartAI

ChartAI is a revolutionary cryptocurrency tool that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to provide instant and personalized charting capabilities directly within Telegram chats. With a commitment to empowering cryptocurrency enthusiasts, investors, and traders, ChartAI offers real-time data visualization, technical analysis, and insights, all conveniently accessible in Telegram conversations. ChartAI rewards its community by sharing 100% of its profits generated from its bots with holders of the $CX token.

Website | Twitter | Telegram | Medium | YouTube



Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, or intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended that you practice due diligence (including consultation with a professional financial advisor) before investing in or trading securities and cryptocurrency.
Philadelphia, PA, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Diversified Search Group, a top ten executive search firm, announced today the appointment of Megan Shattuck as Global Managing Partner of its Corporate Business. Drawing on over 25 years of experience in media, journalism and advising Fortune 500 public and private company CEOs and boards, Shattuck will lead Diversified Search Group's global corporate business across executive search, board advisory and governance, corporate affairs, client development, and the expansion of products and partnerships contributing to the growth of the firm. Shattuck joins as a member of the executive management team, will work alongside Chief Executive Officer Aileen Alexander, and will be based in New York.

Shattuck is among the most highly respected and sought-after advisors in the industry, with an impressive track record of advising leadership teams with actionable advice across performance, culture, and talent advisory. She has conducted hundreds of board director and executive search assignments representing a range of industries spanning Fortune 10 to pre-IPO and has deep expertise in company transformation, board advisory, corporate governance, corporate affairs, and reputational risk management.

Shattuck joins from Teneo, a leading global CEO advisory firm, where she founded, built, and led the Talent Advisory business and served on the firms leadership team. As President of Talent, she generated significant new business, advanced the firm's growth goals by recruiting senior leaders to Teneo, and developed agile products and capabilities with a strong focus on execution and value creation. Over her eight years at Teneo, she placed C-Suite executives and Board members across sectors and counseled CEOs, Boards, and senior leadership teams of multi-national corporations on talent advisory matters, board and governance issues, and reputational management.

"Megan is an exciting addition to our firm, bringing an impressive track record as a trusted and experienced advisor and executive search consultant to boards and leadership teams. With her, we have a tremendous opportunity to accelerate our growth," said Aileen Alexander, Chief Executive Officer.

"I am thrilled to join Diversified Search Group, a firm with an innovative business model that uniquely serves the executive search needs of leadership teams across sectors," said Megan Shattuck. "I look forward to working alongside the experienced and impressive team to build upon their momentum and growth, and to helping companies and organizations to make a positive impact through transformative leadership and performance."

"Megan is a highly successful executive who has excelled across multiple sectors, building strong and trusted relationships with clients and helping companies and teams thrive," said Judith M. von Seldeneck, Founder and Chair of Diversified Search Group. "In addition, Megan is widely recognized for her exceptional commitment to colleagues and clients, and we are delighted that she is joining our firm."

Previously, Megan was a Senior Client Partner at Korn Ferry and a member of the Board & CEO Practice and Corporate Affairs Center of Expertise. She specialized in recruiting senior executives across a broad range of industries. She played a key role in the expansion of the Board & CEO Practice and Corporate Affairs Center of Expertise globally.

Prior to joining Korn Ferry in 2006, Megan covered The White House for the Cable News Network (CNN). As a White House Producer, she was a member of the press corps, reporting on the Clinton and Bush administrations. Her responsibilities included: conducting interviews with administration officials; producing long- and short-form pieces; and leading White House coverage during breaking news situations. Her work with John King, "CNN Presents: 9/11," was nominated for an Emmy. Previously, Megan was an associate producer for "CNN NewsStand," a long format, nightly news program. Earlier in her career, she worked at The American School in Japan.

Megan is a current member (and past chair) of the board of directors of Children's Rights, which is focused on improving America's child welfare, juvenile justice, education, and healthcare systems. She is a member of the Young President's Organization (YPO) and serves on the Gotham Chapter executive committee. She graduated from Middlebury College where she was Co-Captain of the Middlebury College Women's Lacrosse Team. Megan has lived in Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Chile, Japan, and the United States of America.

About Diversified Search Group Purpose. Progress. Performance.

Diversified Search Group, one of the nation's fastest-growing and top ten executive search firms, is an industry leader in recruiting transformational leaders for a changing world. The firm is comprised of a combination of specialty practices with deep industry expertise, providing clients with a wide range of resources through: Diversified Search, Alta Associates, BioQuest, Koya Partners, Grant Cooper, Storbeck Search, and Yardstick Management. The firm also offers clients a range of customized strategic advisory services designed to assess, develop and support outstanding leadership.

Headquartered in Philadelphia, PA, Diversified Search Group is consistently recognized by Forbes on their top 10 list of "America's Best Executive Recruiting Firms." The firm operates with over a dozen offices nationwide and offers global services as the exclusive U.S. partner of AltoPartners, altopartners.com, the international alliance of independent executive search firms. For more information, visit diversifiedsearchgroup.com.

Attachment

Heather Campion Diversified Search Group 617-413-3269 [email protected]

Source: Diversified Search Group
FORT WILLIAM FIRST NATION, Ontario, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wataynikaneyap Power and North Caribou Lake First Nation are pleased to celebrate the connection of the northern Ontario community to the provincial power grid. Upon grid connection, the community turned off the diesel generators which had previously provided them primary power.

North Caribou Lake Chief Cornelious Benson states, Grid connection has been a long time coming. Diesel generation was unsafe, unreliable, and inadequate to meet the needs of the growing community. Since connection, we have been able to connect a new school, police station, a number of housing and trailer units, and many building upgrades.

The Wataynikaneyap Power transmission system connects the North Caribou Lake community distribution system to the Ontario grid through a total of 590 km of line and four substations, originating from the Dinorwic Substation near Highway 17. Connected on October 5, 2022, North Caribou Lake was the second First Nation energized by the provincial power grid through the Wataynikaneyap Power transmission system. North Caribou Lake continues to be served by Hydro One Remotes Communities Inc. (HORCI) for the local distribution of electricity.

North Caribou Lake First Nation has been in discussions since the mid-1990s to bring reliable energy to the community. We finally did it and congratulations! remarks Margaret Kenequanash, CEO of Wataynikaneyap Power. This is my home, and it is a very special day for me. We have traveled a long path that saw successes, learning opportunities, and false starts to get us to this point. We are not done yet! Connecting all 17 First Nations and achieving the vision of 100% ownership of this major infrastructure in our homeland is important for our future generations.

Eliezar Mckay, First Nation LP Board Chair, states, 24 First Nations are working together to bring reliable power to the north, with infrastructure owned by the First Nations. Not only is this project going to be immediately beneficial to the communities, but it will also be an asset for our future generations to own, manage and build upon.

Wataynikaneyap Power is majority-owned by an equal partnership of 24 First Nations, in partnership with Fortis Inc. and other private investors, to build and operate the line that brings light, a $1.9 billion dollar infrastructure project, a reality for remote, northern Ontario First Nations. The 1,800 km Wataynikaneyap Power Transmission Line will ultimately connect 171 remote First Nations to the Ontario power grid, removing their reliance on diesel-generated electricity.

Congratulations North Caribou Lake First Nation! We continue to celebrate the progress of this unprecedented project and work hard to meet the expectations of the people, remarks Frank Mckay, Board Chair for the Wataynikaneyap Power General Partnership (WPGP).

North Caribou Lake First Nation has benefited from being connected to the main Ontario electricity grid for nearly a year, said David Hutchens, President and CEO, Fortis Inc. Having shut down its diesel engines, the community has reduced its carbon emissions and secured room for current and future growth. We are proud to partner with all 24 First Nations in building the transmission line throughout Northwestern Ontario and look forward to project completion, said David Hutchens, President and Chief Executive Officer, Fortis Inc.

On September 14, North Caribou Lake invited Wataynikaneyap Power, Opiikapawiin Services, government, and other stakeholders to celebrate this momentous occasion in the community, following their annual Hunting Festival.

The Wataynikaneyap Transmission Project is the largest Indigenous-led grid connection infrastructure project in Canada. Todays celebration marks an end to North Caribou Lake First Nations reliance on diesel-generated electricity. The completion and energization of the transmission line to the First Nation will provide the community with clean, safe, and reliable energy that will have a significant effect on the wellbeing of community members. Congratulations to North Caribou Lake First Nation and Wataynikaneyap Power on this significant milestone, states the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor).

The Honourable Todd Smith, Minister of Energy, who was in attendance, remarks, Congratulations to Wataynikaneyap Power and North Caribou Lake First Nation on this extraordinary achievement in bringing reliable, clean and affordable electricity to the community. Our government is proud to support this First-Nation led project that is connecting communities to Ontarios clean grid, unlocking new opportunities for community development.

About Wataynikaneyap PowerWataynikaneyap Power is a licensed transmission company majority-owned by a partnership of 24 First Nations in partnership with Fortis Inc. and other private investors, regulated by the Ontario Energy Board. FortisOntario Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Fortis Inc., acts as the project manager through its wholly owned subsidiary, Wataynikaneyap Power PM Inc. The 24 First Nations also established Opiikapawiin Services to lead the community engagement and participation for Wataynikaneyap Power LP. To connect remote communities to the electrical grid, Wataynikaneyap Power will develop, manage construction, and operate approximately 1,800 kilometres of transmission lines in northwestern Ontario. For further information, please visit: www.wataypower.ca.

About First Nation Limited PartnershipFirst Nation Limited Partnership (FNLP) is a partnership of 24 First Nations in Northwestern Ontario working together to connect 17 remote communities currently powered by diesel generation stations. FNLP was established in 2015 to be the ownership and control of the participating First Nations interest in Wataynikaneyap Power LP. The 51% interest in Wataynikaneyap Power LP is equally owned by each of the 24 First Nation communities and FNLP will maintain their ability to increase their ownership to 100% over time.

About FortisFortis is a well-diversified leader in the North American regulated electric and gas utility industry with 2022 revenue of $11 billion and total assets of $64 billion as of June 30, 2023. The Corporation's 9,200 employees serve utility customers in five Canadian provinces, ten U.S. states and three Caribbean countries. Fortis shares are listed on the TSX and NYSE and trade under the symbol FTS. Additional information can be accessed at www.fortisinc.com, www.sedar.com, or www.sec.gov.

About Opiikapawiin ServicesOpiikapawiin Services LP (OSLP) was established by a partnership of 24 First Nations in Northwestern Ontario. OSLP is primarily responsible for administering projects and programs for Wataynikaneyap Power PM through a service agreement, relating to community engagement, community readiness, education & training, business readiness, stakeholder engagement, communications, and capacity building. OSLP also supports the First Nation Partnership in the management of its investment in Wataynikaneyap Power. For additional information, please visit: www.oslp.ca

Media Contacts

Kristine Carmichael, Director of Corporate and Customer ServicesFortisOntario Inc.(905) 994-3637 [email protected] Mary Kita, Manager, CommunicationsWataynikaneyap Power(807) 631-7503 [email protected]

________________________1 Wataynikaneyap will continue to work with McDowell Lake First Nation, the 17th community, with the goal of becoming grid connected in the future.

Source: Wataynikaneyap Power
WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) invited public comment on a proposed rule that would help expand access to SBA loan programs for people with certain criminal history records. These proposed reforms would open up entrepreneurship opportunities to the one in three American adults with a prior criminal history record and build upon President Bidens comprehensive Safer America Plan to prevent and combat gun violence and crime by addressing their root causes through expanding access to employment, education, health care, housing, and other supportive services that strengthen public safety and advance equity. As the SBA expands access to capital to more qualified entrepreneurs, it continues to implement additional reforms to mitigate the risk of fraud in its traditional capital programs to ensure funds get to the businesses they were intended to serve, including front-end detection protocols conducted by SBA. These safeguards further strengthen the existing ones set and implemented by lenders allowing for expansion of capital with speed and certainty.

Current SBA regulations contain barriers for loan applicants with certain criminal history records, with some applicants barred entirely from SBA programs. If finalized, the proposed rule would expand access to capital for entrepreneurs with prior justice involvement by expanding eligibility and removing barriers to SBAs loan and surety bond programs. The proposed rule would also eliminate the current practice on SBA application forms of asking all applicants about their involvement with the criminal justice system. This is because there is no evidence that people with prior criminal justice system history are at a greater risk of default. In fact, research shows that asking applicants about this history can deter people from applying for SBA loans, even though they would not be categorically barred from obtaining those loans. At the same time, the proposed rule would maintain prohibitions on applicants who are currently incarcerated or are found to have previously defrauded the government based on SBA cross-checks with available databases would remain ineligible for SBA-guaranteed loans.

America is about possibilities and second chances  and that includes justice-involved individuals who are working hard to rebuild their lives through entrepreneurship, said Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman. SBAs proposed rule would help returning citizens have better access to capital to start and grow their businesses and ensure our economy and society can benefit from their pursuit of the American dream of business ownership. Doing so is not only the right thing to do to strengthen our economy and communities, but it is also the smart thing to do because research shows that employment helps people thrive during reentry and reduces the risk of recidivism.

One in three American adults has a criminal record, and people with prior criminal history involvement identify employment as their most urgent need, but most significant obstacle. According to a 2018 study, formerly incarcerated people have a 27% unemployment rate, dramatically higher than the overall United States unemployment rate.[1] In addition, there is substantial evidence of labor force discrimination against formerly incarcerated individuals, both due to concerns about recidivism and gaps in work experience, and a general stigma above and beyond productivity-related factors.[2] Formerly incarcerated people who are employed recidivate at lower rates than those who do not obtain work.[3] Entrepreneurship offers people with prior connections to the criminal justice system - which disproportionately involves historically marginalized and underserved communities - a strong alternative. The proposed updated regulations would clarify requirements across SBA capital programs and expand access to the capital necessary to start a business

The SBA proposed rule change would:

Standardize eligibility rules across SBA capital programs, including the 7(a) Loan Program, 504 Loan Program, Disaster Loan Program, Microloan Program, and Surety Bond Guarantee Programwhich collectively provide over $40 billion in capital annually to small businesses;

Reduce confusion and subjectivity (e.g., what is considered a crime of moral turpitude);

Rather than rely on self-reporting from the applicant, SBA will eliminate detailed questions on the application and, instead ask a straightforward question on current incarceration status and then verify that status using the applicants SSN and a third-party database. SBA will also check against SBA internal data for those connected to pandemic fraud and other resources related fraud against the federal government.

Continue to allow SBA lenders to follow their own policies on criminal background checks;

Continue to deem businesses with owners who are currently incarcerated and all those who have previously committed fraud against the government as ineligible for all capital programs.

I have been proud to work with my colleagues in Congress in a bipartisan manner to reduce barriers for justice-impacted people seeking economic stability and success through entrepreneurship after release, said Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ). Im pleased that the U.S. Small Business Administration has now taken this important step toward helping justice-involved people overcome barriers to accessing capital to grow their small businesses. Expanding access to SBA programs and the critical resources they provide will help these businesses succeed and help people who are working to turning their lives around to pursue the American dream.

Reducing barriers to entrepreneurship for justice-impacted individuals and returning citizens has been a long-time priority of mine. As a champion for the inclusion of justice-impacted individuals in COVID-19 small business relief, I applaud the Biden-Harris Administrations proposed rule for building on these efforts. Justice-impacted entrepreneurs are less likely to recidivate and are more likely to employ other justice-impacted individuals, said Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD), Chair of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee. Through access to SBA programs, returning citizens will tap into the vast resources and training that can make a real difference for their small businesses and their community. Its past time that we provide the resources to actualize the full potential of these entrepreneurs.

For the formerly incarcerated, entrepreneurship is a proven tool to bypass discrimination in the job market and provide a path toward a healthy and productive life, said Congresswoman Nydia M. Velazquez (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Small Business Committee. I applaud this proposed rule, which will increase access to SBA programs for the formerly incarcerated and help ensure that more returning citizens have a place in our economy and a genuine second chance.

After someone has served their time and paid their debt to society, its important that we make sure there are no roadblocks to their personal growth and success. That includes restoring their right to vote, and it certainly includes their ability to be an entrepreneur, said Congressman Steven Horsford (D-NV). I applaud the SBAs movement to make sure that previous mistakes wont restrict the ability for someone to get a small business loan or other assistance provided by the agency."

As the SBA continues to expand access to capital to American entrepreneurs, it is doing more than ever to protect against fraud in its traditional capital programs. On August 1, 2023, SBA began, for the first time outside of COVID programs, pre-screening all business loan applications for fraud. Previously this check was left to self-reporting from the borrower and a lender review. SBAs fraud check uses best-in-class third-party databases to independently verify information provided by the borrower and lender. When a mismatch is identified, it must be cleared before the loan will be approved. This substantial investment in fraud prevention would be unaffected by the proposed rule. Furthermore, banks and credit unions that issue the loans would retain the ability to conduct their own inquiries about an applicants criminal history and make their own lending decision, which will vary by lender as it currently does. The SBA programs at issue are traditional loans that must be repaid.

Starting a business advances economic opportunity and promotes financial stability, not just for people with criminal history involvement, but also for their families and communities. It also strengthens our economy and public safety. The Biden-Harris Administration has made second chance opportunities a high priority to reduce recidivism and allow individuals to become productive members of society.

The Biden-Harris Administration has implemented a whole-of-government effort to expand opportunities for returning citizens and strengthen communities and the economy. At the height of the pandemic, the Administration adopted a bipartisan reform that eliminated a business ineligibility for a Paycheck Protection Program loan if it was at least 20 percent owned by an individual who had a felony within the previous year. Additionally, the SBA removed barriers to eligibility based on irrelevant criminal history records for its 7(a), Microloan, and 504 loan programs and eliminated criminal record restrictions to access its Community Advantage loans, a critical program that provides loans to low-income borrowers and those from underserved communities.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

[1] Lucius Couloute & Daniel Kopf, Prison Poly Initiative, Out of Prison & Out of Work: Unemployment among formerly incarcerated people (July 2018), https://www.prisonpolicy.org/reports/outofwork.html.[2] Amanda Agan & Sonja Starr, Ban the Box, Criminal Records, and Racial Discrimination: A Field Experiment 133 Q. J. of Econ. 191, 191-235 (Aug. 2, 2017), https://academic.oup.com/qje/article/133/1/191/4060073.[3] Lucius Couloute & Daniel Kopf, Prison Poly Initiative, Out of Prison & Out of Work: Unemployment among formerly incarcerated people (July 2018).

Christine Saah Nazer U.S. Small Business Administration 202-756-0304 [email protected]

Source: U.S. Small Business Administration
TORONTO, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stroud Resources Ltd. (TSXV: SDR) (Stroud or Company) announces the maturity of its convertible debenture issued on May 29, 2023. On maturity the issuer was satisfied through the issuance of 6,000,000 units.

The Company has converted a debenture in the amount of $600,000 with the issuance of 6,000,000 units. Each unit comprises one common share and one common share purchase warrant, with each warrant exercisable into one common share at a price of $0.10 for a period of three (3) years from closing.

Eric Sprott, through 2176423 Ontario Ltd., a corporation which is beneficially owned by him, acquired the units following conversion of this debenture. Prior to the conversion, Mr. Sprott beneficially owned 25,277,777 common shares representing approximately 49.0% of the outstanding common shares on a non-diluted basis. As a result of the conversion of the debenture and consistent with 2176423 Ontarios early warning report dated May 30, 2023, Mr. Sprott beneficially owns 31,277,777 common shares and 6,000,000 warrants of the Company representing approximately 54.3% of the outstanding common shares on an undiluted basis and 58.6% assuming exercise of such warrants.

The participation by 2176423 Ontario Ltd. constitutes a related party transaction pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101). The Company intends to rely on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in Section 5.5(b) and Section 5.7(1)(b) of MI 61-101, respectively, on the basis that the Company is not listed on the specified markets and the fair market value of the securities does not exceed $2,500,000.

All securities will be subject to a four-month hold period from the original closing date of May 29, 2023.

Proceeds raised through the issue of Units will be used for general working capital purposes.

About Stroud Resources Ltd.Stroud Resources is a TSXV listed company (TSXV: SDR) focused on the exploration and development of its Santo Domingo epithermal silver project in central Mexico.

For more information, please visit www.stroudsilver.com or contact Mirsad Jakubovic, Chief Financial Officer, Stroud Resources Ltd., Tel: 1-416-888-8731, [email protected].

THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of the drill results, geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits.Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Companys expectations or projections.

Source: Stroud Resources Ltd.
Toronto, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Foxglove Spirits Ltd. announces the appointment of marketing veteran, Dave Bigioni as Vice President of Marketing and Sales. Bigioni is a marketing and business development trailblazer with over two decades of experience, leading campaigns for global brand giants, including Molson Coors, Unilever and Canopy Growth. Foxglove Spirits Ltd. is the purveyor of the critically acclaimed and award-winning, Valley of Mother of God Gin, which currently comes in Canadian Dry and Maplewood Smoked Gin variants.

The timing of bringing Dave in to spearhead our marketing and sales team is strategic. We want the best in talent on board as we continue expansion across Canada and into export markets, says Malcolm Roberts, Co-founder of Foxglove Spirits. We couldnt be happier than to attract someone with Daves caliber and reputation in the industry.

With sales growth in Ontario outpacing all other domestic luxury gin brands over the last two years, Valley of Mother of God has recently expanded distribution to British Columbia and Alberta.

Founded by life and business partners Malcolm Roberts and Shelly Perry in 2017, Valley of Mother of God Gin launched in LCBO in spring 2020. The brand has remarkably superseded all initial projections and continues to rank as a top ten luxury gin in Ontario*. The pandemic served as an unexpected catalyst for success as they quickly went from being a passion project to a startup then catapulted into a growth surge.

During the pandemic, I followed the Valley of Mother God journey on social media. From its earliest rendering of bottle design to recipe testing...I was captivated by the extreme attention to detail, the ethos and the sheer commitment to creating something with such a spirit of integrity, says Dave Bigioni. I had a bottle sent to my local LCBO, and it exceeded my expectations.

Consumers can enjoy Valley of Mother of God Gin this month when The Mother of All Negronis campaign  a co-promotion with partner Campari Canada  kicks off to celebrate the Negroni cocktail throughout September. Some notable restaurants and bars participating are Project Gigglewater, Little Sister (all locations), Madrina, STK Toronto, and S & V Uptown in Waterloo.

###

*Source: LCBO 9L cases MAT Aug 2023

For high resolution images and all media inquiries:

Jenny Shin, President and CEO Milestones Public Relations

E. [email protected] T. 1-647-286-8584

Assets

Website: https://www.valleyofmotherofgod.ca/

Instagram: @valleyofmotherofgodgin

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/godsgin

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ca/valleyofmotherofgod/

About Foxglove Spirits Ltd.

Foxglove Spirits is a Canadian producer of luxury alcohol products developed using innovative strategies, head snap creativity, global expertise and the worlds finest ingredients.

The companys first brand, Valley of Mother of God launched its Canadian Dry Gin in Ontario in April 2020. This was followed by the unique Maplewood Smoked Gin in April 2022.

In just 3 years, award-winning Valley of Mother of God has grown to become a top ten luxury gin brand in LCBO, one of the largest and most competitive beverage alcohol retailers in the world.

Attachment

Jenny Shin Foxglove Spirits Ltd. 647-286-8584 [email protected]

Source: Foxglove Spirits Ltd.
WHITEHORSE, Yukon, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Victoria Gold Corp. (TSX-VGCX) (Victoria or the Company) is pleased to announce the first analytical results from the 2023 exploration campaign at the Raven deposit. Raven was the primary focus of this seasons exploration efforts with over 13,200 meters (m) of diamond drilling completed. The drilling campaign consisted of systematic fence drilling to the east of the current deposit bounds coupled with exploratory drillholes around the promising high-grade mineralization identified last season in drillhole NG22-155C (20.24 g/t Au over 14.5m; see Company News Release dated January 19, 2023). Victoria anticipates releasing an updated Raven Mineral Resource Estimate after the completion of the 2023 field season including receipt and analysis of all results.

Assays for 16 of the 39 drillholes collared in 2023 have been received  highlighted results are presented below:

7.80 g/t Au over 6.0m from 235.5m in NG23-167C

from 235.5m in NG23-167C 3.03 g/t Au over 11.3m from 256.3m in NG23-168C

from 256.3m in NG23-168C 20.20 g/t Au over 1.1m from 292.3m in NG23-170C

from 292.3m in NG23-170C 3.45 g/t Au over 27.5m from 239.0m in NG23-172C

from 239.0m in NG23-172C 3.47 g/t Au over 18.5m from 170.5m in NG23-179C

A busy 2023 exploration program served to validate and expand the mineralized footprint of Raven while increasing overall confidence in the Raven deposit, stated John McConnell, President and CEO of Victoria. With each successive season, Raven has grown in size and 2023 should prove no different as we focused exploration towards growth of the deposit along strike - particularly to the east where 2023 results underscore the development of a high-grade trend.

During the 2023 field season, 13,220m of diamond drilling was completed at the Raven deposit (39 holes), along with 1,282m of surface trenches (16 trenches), detailed structural/geological mapping and prospecting. Drilling in 2022 and 2023 tested an additional 400m of strike length from the 2022 Resource eastern limits. This drilling confirmed Raven mineralization over a strike length of 1.7 kilometers (km). This first set of analytical results from Victorias 2023 exploration program represents further confirmation of the Raven mineralization and Resource model, with long intervals of gold mineralization (such as 144.0m of 0.81 g/t Au and 78.4m of 1.40 g/t Au) hosted within granodiorite lithologies punctuated by intervals of high grade massive sulphide veins (such as 3.5m of 13.68 g/t Au and 0.5m of 135.30 g/t Au).

The results of NG23-172C and NG23-179C, together with NG22-155C, drilled during the 2022 drill campaign, demonstrate an emerging high-grade trend within the rapidly developing Raven deposit.

In conjunction with focused drilling of the Raven deposit, a suite of exploration targets across the Dublin Gulch Gold Camp, including Lynx, were advanced through surface trenches, soil geochemical surveys, geological mapping and prospecting during the 2023 program.

Highlighted analytical results from the 16 Raven drillholes received to date are presented below:

Table 1: Raven 2023 Diamond Drillhole Highlighted Results

Hole From_m To_m Length m Au g/t Ag g/t NG23-166C 109.5 110.8 1.3 7.28 6.70 NG23-167C 50.3 51.4 1.1 12.30 24.00 and 203.5 241.5 38.0 1.77 3.81 including 203.5 207.0 3.5 5.31 14.64 and including 235.5 241.5 6.0 7.80 12.85 including 235.5 237.0 1.5 26.00 19.80 NG23-168C 209.5 267.6 58.1 0.82 3.91 including 256.3 267.6 11.3 3.03 17.67 including 256.3 257.0 0.7 43.00 95.20 NG23-169C 68.5 205.0 136.5 0.38 1.31 including 112.2 112.7 0.5 35.10 71.40 and including 165.0 205.0 40.0 0.50 2.59 including 165.0 192.9 27.9 0.67 3.00 NG23-170C 37.0 38.0 1.0 0.44 354.00 and 222.5 293.4 70.9 0.82 14.03 including 239.6 293.4 53.8 1.01 16.87 including 239.6 240.7 1.1 12.00 673.00 and including 292.3 293.4 1.1 20.20 15.90 NG23-171C 203.7 314.5 110.8 0.33 4.03 including 265.5 295.0 29.5 0.69 9.71 including 286.8 295.0 8.2 1.53 9.12 NG23-172C 224.8 303.2 78.4 1.40 3.01 including 239.0 266.5 27.5 3.45 1.35 including 240.7 241.2 0.5 135.30 8.40 and including 263.0 263.7 0.6 21.80 23.00 NG23-173C 230.5 284.5 54.0 0.53 2.84 including 254.5 284.5 30.0 0.84 4.63 including 278.0 284.5 6.5 2.96 18.73 NG23-174C 211.5 225.5 14.0 0.66 - including 217.6 224.5 6.9 1.13 - NG23-175C 164.4 196.7 32.3 0.77 5.86 including 167.5 175.3 7.8 2.51 18.16 NG23-176C 210.0 217.9 7.9 2.19 14.72 including 212.9 213.9 1.0 12.30 84.30 NG23-177C 222.7 287.6 64.9 0.44 3.61 including 259.5 287.6 28.1 0.61 4.20 including 259.5 268.3 8.8 1.13 7.86 NG23-178C 228.0 230.2 2.2 6.19 6.00 including 229.5 230.2 0.7 19.00 17.80 and 313.1 340.0 26.9 0.98 7.62 including 323.5 334.3 10.8 1.87 12.54 NG23-179C 159.0 303.0 144.0 0.81 10.58 including 167.0 221.0 54.0 1.50 24.57 including 167.0 189.0 22.0 3.01 58.06 including 170.5 189.0 18.5 3.47 66.63 including 181.7 185.2 3.5 13.68 216.08 NG23-180C 161.7 162.5 0.8 2.34 221.00 NG23-181C 222.7 329.5 106.8 0.41 0.92 including 259.5 284.5 25.0 0.58 1.06 including 275.9 283.0 7.1 0.87 2.19

*True widths are estimated to be approximately 90% of drilled lengths

A set of drill sections and plan map to accompany these Raven drillholes, along with drill collar and survey data, will be made available on the company website (www.vgcx.com).

Analytical methodAll exploration drill core from the Dublin Gulch 2023 program was analyzed at MSALabs, of Terrace, B.C., utilizing the ICP_230 34-element analytical package with FAS-121 50-gram fire assay with an atomic absorption finish for gold on all samples. All core samples were split at Victoria's exploration facilities and shipped to the MSALabs mobile preparation facility near Mayo, YT. Samples were sorted and crushed to appropriate particle size (coarse crush) and representatively split to a smaller size (250 grams) for the MSALabs analytical facility in Langley, B.C. A comprehensive system of standards, blanks and field duplicates was implemented for the 2023 exploration campaign and is monitored as chemical assay data becomes available.

Qualified PersonThe technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Paul D. Gray, P.Geo., as the Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About RavenRaven represents a potentially high-grade, on-surface gold deposit that lies in the extreme southeast contact of the Nugget Intrusive Stock within the surrounding Earn Group metasedimentary package. This large, approximately 3 kilometer by 2 kilometer, medium to coarse grained granodiorite stock of Cretaceous age represents the second largest intrusive body on the Dublin Gulch property (second only to the Dublin Gulch Stock that hosts the Eagle Gold Mine). The Nugget Stock is highly prospective to host Eagle-style sheeted vein mineralization, and the vast majority of the greater than 5 square kilometer stock remains untested.

The Raven occurrence is hosted in a shear zone corridor on the southeast portion of the Nugget Stock, in close association with the intrusion-metasediment contact on the eastern side of the Lynx Creek valley. The area is underlain by the Devonian to Mississippian age Earn Group and the Early Carboniferous age Keno Hill Quartzite which have been deformed by greenschist facies metamorphism, folding, and thrusting (Gordey and Makepeace, 2003).

Exploration drilling, trenching, and soil geochemical sampling at the Raven deposit in the 2018 through 2023 field seasons have repeatedly returned high-grade gold intersections accompanied by prolific visible gold occurrences along a major and consistently mineralized corridor, which has grown sequentially since its discovery in 2018. The Raven discovery was based largely from initial surface trenches constructed and sampled in the 2018 field season that exposed scorodite, bismuth, and siderite related sulphide veins under less than one meter of overburden/cover.

The October 26, 2022 technical report, titled Technical Report on the Raven Mineral Deposit, Mayo Mining District Yukon Territory, Canada, with an effective date of September 15, 2022, can be found on the Companys website at www.vgcx.com and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

The MRE comprises a total Inferred Mineral Resource of 1,070,239 ounces of gold for the near-surface Raven Deposit.

Table 2: Pit-Constrained Inferred Mineral Resources at a 0.50 g/t Au Cut-Off Effective September 15, 2022  Raven Deposit

Au Cut-offGradeg/t Classification Tonnagetonnes Average Au Gradeg/t Au Content oz 0.50 Inferred 19,956,934 1.67 1,070,239

Notes: 

The effective date for the Mineral Resource is September 15, 2022. Mineral Resources which are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, sociopolitical, marketing, or other relevant issues. The CIM definitions were followed for classification of Mineral Resources. The quantity and grade of reported inferred Mineral Resources in this estimation are uncertain in nature and there has been insufficient exploration to define these inferred Mineral Resources as an indicated Mineral Resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in upgrading them to an indicated or measured Mineral Resource category. Mineral Resources are reported at a cut-off grade of 0.50 g/t Au, within a Lerchs-Grossman pit shell using a gold price of US$1,700/ounce and a US$/CAN$ exchange rate of 0.75.

About the Dublin Gulch PropertyVictoria Gold's 100%-owned Dublin Gulch gold property (the Property) is situated in central Yukon Territory, Canada, approximately 375 kilometers north of the capital city of Whitehorse, and approximately 85 kilometers from the town of Mayo. The Property is accessible by road year round, and is located within Yukon Energy's electrical grid.

The Property covers an area of approximately 555 square kilometers, and is the site of the Company's Eagle and Olive Gold deposits. The Company issued a National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report for the Eagle Gold Mine dated April 10, 2023 (the 2023 Eagle Technical Report). As at December 31, 2022, the Eagle and Olive deposits include Proven and Probable Reserves of 2.6 million ounces of gold from 124 million tonnes of ore with a grade of 0.65 grams of gold per tonne. As at December 31, 2022, the Mineral Resource for the Eagle and Olive deposits has been estimated to host 245 million tonnes averaging 0.59 grams of gold per tonne, containing 4.7 million ounces of gold in the "Measured and Indicated" category, inclusive of Proven and Probable Reserves, and a further 35 million tonnes averaging 0.62 grams of gold per tonne, containing 0.7 million ounces of gold in the "Inferred" category.

Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". Except for statements of historical fact relating to Victoria, information contained herein constitutes forward-looking information, including any information related to Victoria's strategy, plans or future financial or operating performance. Forward-looking information is characterized by words such as plan, expect, budget, target, project, intend, believe, anticipate, estimate and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions may, will, could or should occur, and includes any guidance and forecasts set out herein (including, but not limited to, production and operational guidance of the Corporation). In order to give such forward-looking information, the Corporation has made certain assumptions about its business, operations, the economy and the mineral exploration industry in general. In this respect, the Corporation has assumed that production levels will remain consistent with managements expectations, contracted parties provide goods and services on agreed timeframes, equipment works as anticipated, required regulatory approvals are received, no unusual geological or technical problems occur, no material adverse change in the price of gold occurs and no significant events occur outside of the Corporation's normal course of business. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made, and are inherently subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other known and unknown factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those described in, or implied by, the forward-looking information. These factors include the impact of general business and economic conditions, global liquidity and credit availability on the timing of cash flows and the values of assets and liabilities based on projected future conditions, anticipated metal production, fluctuating metal prices, currency exchange rates, estimated ore grades, possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates, changes in accounting policies, changes in Victoria's corporate resources, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, changes in development and production time frames, the possibility of cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses, uncertainty of mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates, higher prices for fuel, steel, power, labour and other consumables contributing to higher costs and general risks of the mining industry, failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated, final pricing for metal sales, unanticipated results of future studies, seasonality and unanticipated weather changes, costs and timing of the development of new deposits, success of exploration activities, requirements for additional capital, permitting time lines, government regulation of mining operations, environmental risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses, title disputes or claims, limitations on insurance coverage and timing and possible outcomes of pending litigation and labour disputes, risks related to remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure, fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations. Although Victoria has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in, or implied by, the forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained herein is presented for the purpose of assisting investors in understanding Victoria's expected financial and operational performance and Victoria's plans and objectives and may not be appropriate for other purposes. All forward-looking information contained herein is given as of the date hereof, as the case may be, and is based upon the opinions and estimates of management and information available to management of the Corporation as at the date hereof. The Corporation undertakes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking information contained herein and the documents incorporated by reference herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.

For Further Information Contact:John McConnellPresident & CEOVictoria Gold CorpTel: 604-696-6605[email protected]

Source: Victoria Gold Corp
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vital Battery Metals Inc. (Vital or the Company) (CSE: VBAM | OTC: VBAMF | FRA: C0O) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the Phase 1 Exploration Program (the Program) at its Vent Copper Project (the Project) in the Alberni Mining Division, located in southwest British Columbia. The Program was executed in collaboration with Geomap Exploration Inc. and was aimed at acquiring essential data for the development of high-priority drill targets.

Over the course of four weeks in May and June 2023, the Program encompassed prospecting, mapping, sampling, and ground geophysical surveys. Target areas identified in the 2021 technical report were thoroughly investigated. Notably, special attention was given to the Vent-Ken showings, which had previously demonstrated high copper and silver values in sampling. A comprehensive sampling and mapping program over other claims blocks was also conducted to further evaluate these areas. Geological mapping and soil sampling efforts spanned the entire Project, focusing on regions where magnetic surveys indicated the presence of near-surface features.

Adrian Lamoureux, Vitals Chief Executive Officer and President commented, The Company is looking forward to advancing the Vent Copper Project as early results have shown favorable geology for a potential discovery of copper. We intend to continue exploring the target areas identified through previous sampling and surveying.

Vital remains committed to unlocking the full potential of the Project and will continue to provide updates on the progress of this exciting endeavor. The exploration data is being compiled by the Company and will be reported as soon as available.

Figure 1 - Vital Battery Metals Vent Target Areas

About the Vent Property

The Project encompasses approximately 1,561 hectares of crown land in the Alberni Mining Division located in British Columbia, Canada. A key feature of the property is an access forestry road that traverses through its center in a northwest-southeasterly direction, covering a substantial portion of the Project. Geologically, the claims are underlain by rocks of the Karmutsen Formation and Island intrusions. Regionally, the Karmutsen Formation consists of Pillow-basalt, pillow-breccia, basaltic lava, and minor tuff and limestone, ranging from Upper Triassic to Lower Jurassic in age. However, the volcanic rocks within the property predominantly exhibit andesitic composition, characterized by shades of grey-green to dark green. These rocks are generally very fine-grained, occasionally medium-grained, massive, and commonly uniform in appearance. Alterations such as chlorite and epidote were observed in some areas, alongside veins and veinlets of milky quartz Pyrite is highly prevalent and may constitute up to 15-20% of the rock composition. Amygdaloidal basalt, sporadic chalcopyrite occurrences, and altered mafic and flow rocks have been reported in select regions. The Island intrusions include Quartz-Monzonite, Hornblende-Monzonite, Quartz-Diorite, and Diorite, with quartz-monzonite and quartz-diorite being the dominant rock types.

Marketing Agreement

The Company also announces that it has entered into an agreement (the Agreement) with MIC Market Information & Content Publishing GmbH (MIC) (address: Gerhart-Hauptmann-Str. 49b 51379 Leverkusen; email: [email protected]) to provide marketing services for a term of 6 months, commencing September 18, 2023 (the Term).

MIC is an independent company which will, as appropriate, provide project management and consulting for an online marketing campaign, coordinate marketing actions, maintain and optimize AdWords campaigns, adapt AdWords bidding strategies, optimize AdWords ads and create and optimize landing pages (the Services). The promotional activity will occur by email, Facebook, and Google.

Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company will compensate MIC 150,000, with an option to increase the advertising budget up to 250,000 during the Term. The Company will not issue any securities to MIC as compensation for its marketing services. As of the date hereof, to the Companys knowledge, MIC (including its directors and officers) does not own any securities of the Company and has an arms length relationship with the Company.

Qualified Person

The technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Afzaal Pirzada, P.Geo., and a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About Vital Battery Metals Inc.

Vital Battery Metals Inc. (CSE: VBAM |OTC: VBAMF | FRA: C0O) is a mineral exploration company dedicated to the development of strategic projects comprised of battery, base and precious metals in stable jurisdictions. The Company is working to advance its Schofield Lithium, Dickson Lake Lithium, Sting Copper and Vent Copper-Gold Projects.

The Sting Copper Project covers approximately 12,700 hectares and hosts multiple historic Newfoundland and Labrador Government documented mineral occurrences and is located within a 50 km corridor known for significant volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS), copper quartz vein lode and low sulphation epithermal gold showings. The Vent Copper-Gold project covers 1,562 hectares in British Columbia. Vital continues to evaluate value-add assets to bolster its project portfolio.

The Schofield Lithium Project covers 8,824 hectares and is adjacent to Brunswick Explorations Hearst Lithium Project. The Schofield Lithium Project is located ~60 km south of Hearst, Ontario. The Dickson Lake Lithium Project covers 464 single-cell mining claims at approximately 9,780 hectares and is near a Brunswick Exploration Lithium Project, Imagine Lithiums Jackpot Deposit and Rock Techs Georgia Lake Deposit.

For more information, visit www.vitalbatterymetals.com

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Adrian LamoureuxChief Executive Officer, Director+1 (604) 229-9772[email protected]

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, including statements regarding the Project acquisition bringing a low-risk opportunity, the Company building a strong battery metals portfolio with low-risk opportunities that positively impact the Company and its shareholders and the Company providing an initial work plan are "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the Project and its mineralization potential; statements with respect to the provision of the Services by MIC; the Companys objectives, goals or future plans with respect to the Project; the commencement of drilling or exploration programs in the future; the anticipated results of the Program. These forward-looking statements reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company based on information currently available to it. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including those detailed from time to time in filings made by the Company with securities regulatory authorities, which may cause actual outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/af43f5cb-9e39-4b9e-a437-b9b37941e162

Figure 1 Vital Battery Metals Vent Target Areas

Source: Vital Battery Metals Inc
By Dawn Chmielewski, Kanjyik Ghosh and Dimpal Gulwani

(Reuters) -Media entrepreneur Byron Allen has made a $10 billion bid to buy Walt Disney's ABC television network and assets including the FX and National Geographic cable channels, a spokesperson for Allen said on Friday.

Disney has also held exploratory discussions about selling ABC to regional TV station operator Nexstar Media, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters on Thursday.

The discussions come after Disney CEO Bob Iger said in July the company could sell some of its traditional TV assets, which have struggled for years due to the rise of streaming services.

Nexstar's interest is preliminary and may not lead to any deal, one source said. Both sources requested anonymity because the matter is confidential.

A Disney spokesperson said while the company was "open to considering strategic options for its linear business", it has not made a decision yet on selling ABC or any other property.

Nexstar and Disney did not respond to requests for comment. Bloomberg News first reported the Nexstar-Disney talks and Allen's bid for ABC.

ABC comprises a national TV network and eight regional stations. It has affiliation agreements with about 240 local television stations reaching almost all U.S. television households.

Disney's then-Chief Executive Michael Eisner agreed to buy Capital Cities/ABC for $19 billion in 1995.

Nexstar has 200 owned or partner stations in 116 markets, reaching over two-thirds of the U.S. population, as well as national TV networks such as CW and NewsNation. It has a market value of $5.25 billion.

(Reporting by Dawn Chmielewski in Los Angeles; Additional reporting by Akash Sriram, Dimpal Gulwani and Kanjyik Ghosh in Bengaluru; Editing by Josie Kao and William Mallard)
This acquisition aims to inaugurate a boutique firm characterized by entrepreneurial innovation and a client-centric approach.

New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - ArcStone Securities and Investments Corp. ("ArcStone") is pleased to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary, ArcStone US Corp., has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Arcview Capital LLC ("Arcview Capital"), a FINRA-registered broker-dealer based in New York. This acquisition marks a significant step in ArcStone's journey to create a boutique financial services firm with an entrepreneurial edge and a client-centric focus.

Arcview Capital, initially committed to fostering the growth of cannabis and other adaptogenic plant-based businesses through its equity crowdfunding platform, has democratized investments in these swiftly scaling industries. This acquisition ensures the continued growth and expansion of its strategic partnership with the industry stalwart, The Arcview Group ("Arcview" or "TAG"), facilitating simplified investment processes in the cannabis sector and other growth industries.

Michael Astone, CEO of ArcStone, shares his strategic insights as the company embarks on this substantial acquisition and partnership. "We are delighted to consolidate our position as a North-South investment dealer, heralding a new era in financial services. This acquisition not only amplifies our crowdfunding business but also augments the spectrum of services available to the corporate issuer community in the US, Canada, and other major capital markets. It forms a perfect platform to bridge the North-South capabilities and relationships essential for our growth clients in today's global economy, particularly in sectors such as cannabis, life sciences, technology, and more. Our objective is to amplify opportunities for issuers and founders, providing unbiased advice to clients seeking capital through our versatile platform, which combines a crowdfunding platform and traditional go-public strategies, financing, and merger and acquisition advisory."

ArcStone and Arcview are concurrently exploring potential collaborations that would grant ArcStone access to Arcview's brand and ecosystem, fostering ArcStone's Cannabis and broader banking activities. This potential strategic alliance envisages a collaborative effort with Arcview to enhance industry synergy and partnership. Established in 2011, Arcview has been a trailblazer in the cannabis sector, organizing premier events that attract thousands of investors, clients, and professionals from the industry. This strategic alliance would provide ArcStone with immediate channels to cultivate relationships for its clients and boost awareness. Moreover, ArcStone aims to leverage Arcview's extensive database of over 50,000 subscribers and to co-sponsor leading growth conferences, promoting corporate clients in both Canada and the USA.

Jeffrey Finkle, CEO of The Arcview Group, voiced his optimism about the acquisition, noting, "We look forward to collaborating with Michael, Raj, Jack, and their proficient and growing team to elevate this business to unparalleled heights. As the industry's seasoned investment conference organizer, investor, and consulting firm, The Arcview Group remains the foremost portal for investments in cannabis-related business operators."

ArcStone envisions constituting a high-profile advisory board that encompasses former public CEOs, family offices, and other industry partners. "We plan to announce a series of strategic investments in technology and equity partners shortly, with the goal of establishing a comprehensive ecosystem of industry partners for our clients," added Michael.

ArcStone aims to stand as one of the select boutique dealers offering a North-South platform coupled with distinctive features that meet the requirements of mid-cap public clients in the dynamically evolving financial services landscape. "We will be adding strategic hires at the Managing Director level who share our passion for success and partnership model with clients. After establishing two practices in my career at tier 1 banks and most recently being awarded the Managing Director role at a Wall Street firm, this was the natural next step as we see a significant gap in the market for growth clients who require true partnership from their bankers," added Michael.

The closure of this transaction is contingent upon fulfilling specific conditions and obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals.

About ArcStone Securities and Investments Corp.

ArcStone Securities and Investments Corp., a Delaware holding company, specializes in diversified and special situation sectors, catering to both private and public issuers in innovation and growth economies. Possessing a proficient team with backgrounds in prominent financial institutions in Canada and the USA, ArcStone offers strategic guidance across various market sectors, collaborating with companies worldwide seeking capital from North American markets. ArcStone presents a comprehensive product range, including crowdfunding, merger and acquisition advisory, and debt structuring/raising, catering specifically to companies operating within the $20 million to $1 billion range, thereby distinctly positioning itself for mid-market entities. For further details, visit www.arcstoneglobalsecurities.com.

About Arcview Capital

Arcview Capital, a member of FINRA/SIPC and an independent broker-dealer registered with the SEC, primarily focuses on the burgeoning cannabis industry. The firm facilitates companies in capital raising endeavors, providing opportunities for both institutions and individuals to invest in private entities and funds. Arcview Capital constitutes a vital component of The Arcview Group ecosystem, a trusted global leader offering a gamut of financial and consulting services for over 13 years. For further details, visit www.arcviewgroup.com.

For press inquiries, please contact:

Michael L. Astone, CPA, CA - Chief Executive Officer

Email: [email protected]

Jack J. Bensimon, LL.M. - Principal

Email: [email protected]

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180698
Ontario, California--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Art Leon, a well-established contemporary American furniture company, has announced the launch of its new addition of bar stool, featuring an innovative backrest among mid-century styled dining chairs. These innovative products marks a significant step in the evolution of functional and stylish furniture.





Art Leon Expands by Introducing Bar Stools with Backrest and Dining Chairs

As a brand committed to staying at the forefront of contemporary American furniture trends, Art Leon furniture has consistently strived to provide the perfect blend of comfort and aesthetics to households across the nation. With the introduction of the new bar stool with backrest, the company is redefining the concept of seating comfort and style. The style of Art Leon products is mid-century with multi-functional design, and the company focuses on cost-effectiveness of its products.

Art Leon recognizes the growing trend of consumers seeking bar stools that not only serve as functional seating but also enhance the overall ambiance of their living spaces. Sleek and modern designs with clean lines, minimalist aesthetics, and contemporary finishes have gained immense popularity. Industrial-inspired designs featuring metal frames, distressed wood seats, and vintage accents are also highly sought after. Furthermore, there is a rising demand for bar stools equipped with unique features like backrests, swivel mechanisms, adjustable heights, and footrests for added comfort and convenience.

The company focuses on the significance of material choices in crafting the perfect bar stool. The brand offers a diverse range of options to cater to varying budgets and design preferences. Timeless wood remains a popular choice for its warmth and natural appeal. Metal bar stools, crafted from materials like stainless steel or wrought iron, and are prized for their durability and industrial charm. For those seeking extra comfort and a touch of luxury, Art Leon presents upholstered bar stools with plush cushions or leather seats. This comprehensive range of materials ensures that consumers can find bar stools that seamlessly blend with their existing decor and overall interior style.

The newly launched product is their mid-century dining chairs. Whether clients prefer a cohesive look or an eclectic mix-and-match approach, selecting chairs that blend style and comfort can elevate the comfort and visual appeal of their dining space, Art Leon has got them all.

Affordability is crucial consideration for many buyers, and the popularity of dining chair styles can change over time as design trends and personal preferences evolve. Currently, modern dining chairs with minimalist designs, curved backs, and contemporary finishes are gaining traction. As a reputable furniture brand, Art Leon remains attuned to these evolving trends to offer its clients the latest in dining chair options.

Moreover, the choice of materials, such as wood, metal, plastic, and upholstery, can impart distinctive looks and characteristics to your dining chairs. Wooden dining chairs, known for their timeless appeal and durability, are a popular choice. Alternatively, metal chairs provide a sleek and modern aesthetic. Upholstered chairs prioritize comfort and provide an opportunity to introduce various fabrics and patterns into your dining space.

Art Leon produces fashionable, comfortable, quality, and durable furniture accessible to a wide audience. The brand caters to various budget levels by offering a wide price range. Budget-friendly bar stools made from economical materials provide cost-effective solutions for price-conscious consumers. Simultaneously, Art Leon also offers premium and high-end bar stools made from luxury materials, showcasing intricate designs and superior craftsmanship for those who seek exclusive and top-tier furniture pieces.

Conclusively, Art Leon envisions a world where everyone can enjoy furniture that combines fashion, comfort, quality, and durability. Sustainability is at the core of the brand's values, with a commitment to using eco-friendly materials whenever possible. This dedication to sustainability is both a present and future commitment to contribute to the responsible development of the planet.

About the Company - Art Leon:

Art Leon is a prominent name in contemporary American furniture, dedicated to providing functional and stylish furniture to households. With a focus on comfort, aesthetics, and sustainability, Art Leon consistently pushes the boundaries of furniture design to meet the evolving needs of consumers. Art Leon places utmost importance on quality assurance. The brand's factory has undergone stringent compliance audits and has obtained certification to ensure the highest product quality. Each item is thoroughly inspected and tested to meet the brand's exacting standards. In terms of craftsmanship, Art Leon employs hand-woven techniques to create unique and high-quality products that stand out. Premium fabrics and fillings are chosen for user comfort, ensuring that every piece not only embodies exquisite design but also provides exceptional comfort.

Art Leon's commitment to innovation, style, quality, and sustainability is showcased in its latest bar stool creation. This revolutionary addition with a backrest is poised to set new industry standards in the world of contemporary furniture.

For further details, potential clients can visit the following link: https://artleon.com/

Media Details:

Company Name: Art Leon

Contact Person Name: Lei Lu

Contact Email Address: [email protected]

City State: Ontario, USA

Company's Website: https://artleon.com/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180467
Denver, Colorado--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - CBD of Denver, Inc. (OTC Pink: CBDD), is pleased to announce that its wholly owned Luxora subsidiary has signed 4 Letters of Intent to build production facilities to support 4 Cannabis Clubs with its "Production Facility Rental Model" located in Germany.

"Luxora has during its first few days after offering its services has already signed 4 letters of intent for Cannabis Clubs. This level of activity demonstrates the demand for this concept in Germany," states Jan Schwager CEO of Luxora. "We are very pleased with the initial two of days of activity as this reinforces our belief in this business opportunity. Luxora has been positioning itself to be a leader in this space, due to the depth of our diverse management experience and our vision which includes our recent acquisition of HolistiCH enabling the company to offer exclusive strains to its clients. The company believes this strategy will separate us from the other players in the market giving us a competitive advantage and creating a barrier to entry." Groups entering into letters of intent with Luxora secure their place with a 75,000 Euro deposit.

The company will be building its first grow facility to support the Cannabis clubs with its production facility service which will supply the clubs with exclusive strains of Cannabis preparing for the finalization of the German legislation legalizing the cannabis club framework. This is another vertical in the Luxora revenue model adding to our wholesale and retail sales as well as integrating the clones and seeds from HolistiCH.

The company will provide updates as the company works closely with these 4 original groups and the Cannabis Club legislation is finalized by the German government.

Additional updates from CBD of Denver

The company is repositioning Berliner Innovation, adding additional products that have already had success in North America to the existing product mix. The company will be adding a social media approach that is typical in North America, but not regularly used in Europe. The company believes this strategy will provide a robust stream of new products and new projects for the company. Libra 9 continues to expand distribution of the Magic Lappen in northern and southern Germany while continuing marketing efforts during exhibitions for household goods and automotive accessories.

The company wants to maintain a transparent relationship with its shareholders and please visit our websites and ask any question you feel is missing from our websites and public disclosures.

About CBD of Denver, Inc. (BERLINER INNOVATION)

CBD of Denver, Inc. is focused on acquiring profitable assets at attractive valuations to create value for shareholders. The company's team is dedicated to sourcing high-margin, innovative products that align with its values. The Company is offering a number of innovative consumer products through Libra 9 GmbH, such as the Magic Lappen and the BerlinR13 Anti-Slip solution.

Follow Magic Lappen on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok for more information and updates.

Follow The Magic Lappen on Instagram: @themagiclappen

Shop on our website: https://www.the-magic-lappen.com/

Visit the CBDD/ Berliner Innovation: www.berlinerinnovation.de

See our innovative Anti-Slip product: www.berlinr13.de

For questions, please contact us at: [email protected]

About LUXORA LLC

LUXORA LLC is a trailblazing entity in the European cannabis industry, with offices spanning the USA and Europe. Our core expertise revolves around unlocking the potential of the legalized cannabis market, offering Plug & Play solutions tailored to the dynamic needs of this rapidly expanding sector. With a profound understanding of the opportunities and challenges brought forth by legalization, our experienced team is dedicated to pioneering the future of the legal cannabis market in Europe. Our offerings range from consulting and market research to product development and distribution solutions, aimed at simplifying the path to legalization for our esteemed clients.

For inquiries, please contact Investor Relations: [email protected]

For more information, please visit: www.luxora-holding.com

Follow Us: Twitter | Instagram

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180598
Torrance, California--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - With payment card information being an enticing target for cyber attackers, the safeguarding of payment card transactions is of utmost importance. AI Spera is pleased to announce its attainment of the highest global compliance certification level, PCI DSS Level 1 for Criminal IP, its in-house developed and serviced Cyber Threat Intelligence search engine.

Criminal IP has achieved the certification of top-tier global compliance, PCI DSS Level 1, in E-commerce (Merchant)

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9100/180392_108f2979247e8b9a_001full.jpg

The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a global information security standard designed to safeguard card payment information and transactions. It encompasses a comprehensive set of requirements covering network protection, data encryption, system security, access control, and more, to safeguard sensitive financial data and maintain the integrity of payment systems.

Criminal IP has achieved the highest level of compliance, PCI DSS Level 1 certification. With this accomplishment, Criminal IP can minimize the risk of data breaches, protect customer information, and maintain the trust of its service users and partners.

Criminal IP is not only committed to maintaining a secure payment system by achieving a PCI DSS Level 1 but has also launched a complimentary AI-based Chrome extension to protect online users from phishing sites at no cost. With these enhancements, Criminal IP reflects its dedication to delivering the best possible detection and protection service to users worldwide.

About AI Spera

AI Spera, specializing in Cyber Threat Intelligence, launched its global cybersecurity service in April 2023. Since that release, the company has offered advanced threat intelligence services to enterprises across various sectors, government agencies, and education institutions. With a user-friendly interface, this comprehensive search engine provides tailored plans designed to meet various user needs, offering flexibility and convenience. The service is currently supported in English, French, Arabic, Korean, and Japanese, catering to a diverse user base.

Media Contact

Company: AI SPERA

Person: Dan Larson

Contact: [email protected]

Website: https://www.criminalip.io

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180392
Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - E-Power Resources Inc. (CSE: EPR) ("E-Power" or the "Company") is pleased to report on the progress of exploration on the Company's flagship Tetepisca flake graphite property located in the North Shore region of Qubec. Significant flake graphite mineralization has been intersected on two of the three main targets planned for evaluation. The third target is currently being drilled. A total 2,115 metres have been completed to date and the company anticipates completing the planned drill program within the next 10 to 15 days after which samples will be prepared and dispatched for Carbon and other analyses. In addition, the Company is completing fieldwork to evaluate potential locations for the extraction of a bulk sample for metallurgical test work.

About the Tetepisca Property

The Tetepisca Property is located approximately 220 km north of the town of Baie-Comeau in the North Shore Region of Quebec. The property consists of 230 claims covering an area of approximately 12,620 hectares within the emerging Tetepisca Graphite District ("TGD"). The TGD is an active graphite exploration and development district with delineated measured and indicated resources in excess of 100 Mt at an average grade of 14% Cg. The Company's Tetepisca property is strategically located over continuous bedrock conductive horizons that are known and interpreted to be due to graphite and which hold significant potential to host flake graphite resources. Exploration work completed by E-Power to date on the Tetepisca property includes geological mapping and prospecting, trenching, outcrop sampling, ground electromagnetic ("EM") surveys, and a property wide magnetic and EM airborne survey. The Company has evaluated its exploration data set as well as all available historical exploration information and has prioritized 5 target areas from which 3 have been prioritized for the current Phase I drill program.

Qualified Person

Jamie Lavigne, P. Geo, Vice President Exploration and Director for E-Power is a Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information in this press release.

About E-Power

E-Power Resources Inc. is a Quebec Corporation based in Montreal and focused on battery minerals exploration in Quebec. The Company is currently advancing two projects; the Tetepisca property, located in the North Shore region of the Province and the Turgeon property located in the Abitibi region adjacent to the Ontario border. The Company's priority target is flake graphite on the Tetepsica Property. The Turgeon property is located in the prolific Abitibi gold and base metal mining district and the Company is evaluating Turgeon primarily for its copper-zinc and gold potential.

For more information about E-Power Resources Inc. please visit the Company website at: e-powerresources.com

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release contains "forward-looking statements". Statements in this press release which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Actual results could differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements due to numerous factors. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the plans, expectations and intentions contained in this press release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that they will prove to be accurate.

For information contact: James Cross, CEO, Tel: (438) 701-3736, [email protected]

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180626
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Karus Gold Corp. (the "Corporation" or "Karus") announces that all matters proposed at the Annual General and Special Meeting of shareholders (the "AGSM") held today at 10:00AM Pacific Time were approved, including changes to the Board of Directors ("Board").

As previously disclosed in the information circular sent to shareholders in support of the AGSM, Mr. Joe Ovnesek did not stand for re-election to the Board and Mr. Jay Sujir was nominated in his place. The Board is pleased to announce that Mr. Sujir was elected to the Board at the AGSM. Mr. Sujir is a securities and natural resources lawyer who has 23 years of experience in advising and assisting public companies and is a senior partner at Farris LLP. Mr. Sujir is a member of the Law Society of British Columbia and the Canadian Bar Association.

The Board of Karus would like to thank Mr. Ovnesek for his service and welcomes Mr. Sujir to the Board.

About Karus

Karus is the 100% owner of the 1,000 km2 South Caribou Gold District that includes the drill-stage FG Gold and Gold Creek projects in British Columbia. Further information on Karus and its assets can be found on the Company's website at www.karusgold.com and at www.sedarplus.ca, or by contacting us as [email protected].

ON BEHALF OF KARUS GOLD CORP.

"Scott Trebilcock"

Scott Trebilcock

Lead Independent Director

For more information, please contact Karus Investor Relations:

(888) 455-7620

[email protected]

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding the business of the Company and the stage of the projects, are forward-looking statements. Although the Corporation believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Corporation cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Corporation are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, the state of the financial markets for the Corporation's equity securities, the state of the commodity markets generally, variations in the nature, quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located, variations in the market price of any mineral products the Corporation may produce or plan to produce, the inability of the Corporation to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required, including Exchange acceptance, for its planned activities, the inability of the Corporation to produce minerals from its properties successfully or profitably, to continue its projected growth, to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies, and other risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Corporation's latest interim Management Discussion and Analysis and filed with certain securities commissions in Canada. All of the Corporation's Canadian public disclosure filings may be accessed via www.sedarplus.ca and readers are urged to review these materials, including the technical report filed with respect to the Corporation's mineral properties.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180664
Press Release

September 14, 2023 Bato supports imposition of stiff penalties for economic sabotage perpetrators Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa expresses support for the passage of a bill that urges tough penalties on offenders engaged in crimes that are regarded as economic sabotage. On Monday, Senator Cynthia Villar, Chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform, introduced Senate Bill No. 2432 or the "Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act," at the Senate plenary. Under SBN 2432, "economic sabotage" is defined as activities such as "disrupting the economy by creating artificial shortage, promoting excessive importation, manipulating prices and supply and evading payment or underpayment of tariffs and custom duties" among others. According to Villar, the proposed bill seeks to repeal Republic Act No. 10845 or the "Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016" which the lady senator deemed as a "failure" after the Bureau of Customs (BOC), its lead implementing agency, recorded zero number of convictions seven years after its enactment. Dela Rosa, who also filed his own version of the bill (SBN 2413), commended Villar for initiating a whole-of-government approach in addressing the rampant agricultural smuggling, hoarding, profiteering and cartel in the country as he noted that the said crimes destroy the optimism of our local farmers. "I must say that this is truly a proactive and prompt response to the alarming number of cases of smuggling in the country. At the same time, and more importantly, this is a decisive action towards the protection of our Filipino farmers," the Mindanaoan Senator said in his co-sponsorship speech for the measure. "In order to more fully and effectively implement this, there shall be an Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Council. To assist the Council in the prosecution of crimes, a Special Team of Prosecutors shall be created. At the same time, the bill also proposes to create an Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Enforcement Group to assist the Council in matters relating to enforcement," Dela Rosa added. The former top cop then urged Congress and the public to support the measure so as to ensure justice, bring renewed hope and build a better life for our local farmers. "If we take care of our farmers, of their dreams and hopes for the future, then we are also taking care of the dreams and hopes of the rest of the nation. Let us cultivate, rather than destroy, their optimism. If this cultivation means weeding out self-seeking criminals with the passage of this bill, then so be it. When we pass this into law and when it is implemented well, then what we have cultivated shall bear fruit. When that time comes, we shall be happy to reap, along with our farmers, the harvest of what we have sown," Dela Rosa said.
New leadership brings global expertise to the fast-growing CMS organization

New York, New York and Brno, Czech Republic--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Kontent.ai, whose mission is to help the world's leading organizations deliver an unparalleled return on their content, today announced that Mark Ruddock has joined the organization as CEO. Ruddock, an internationally experienced leader, will expand Kontent.ai's global presence and accelerate its AI-powered product offering to meet the strategic content needs of the most recognizable brands.

"The rise of generative AI has fundamentally changed the content management industry and will power exciting new ways companies can generate a return on their content," said Ruddock. "With Kontent.ai's native AI foundation, we are poised to lead that transformation. I'm excited to be part of this team as the talent and innovation across this organization is astounding. I look forward to unveiling the groundbreaking new technologies we have been working on."

"Innovation and customer-centricity are at the heart of Kontent.ai, and Mark will continue to foster that at scale," said Petr Palas, founder and board member, Kontent.ai. "We are thrilled to take this next step in our journey with his leadership and to help our customers solve the complexities of modern content management."

Prior to Kontent.ai, Ruddock held numerous CEO and board positions in VC backed, scale stage companies across the world. He has successfully executed several exits in the SaaS, Mobile, and FinTech industries.

Learn more about Kontent.ai and the value its solutions deliver on the Return on Content here.

###









Mark Ruddock named CEO of Kontent.ai



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9994/180542_markruddock.jpg

About Kontent.ai



Kontent.ai is the headless CMS that enables organizations to achieve unparalleled return on their content. In the Kontent.ai platform, control over content underpins all operations and workflows. Content creators, enabled by native AI skills, collaborate in real time, making it easier to land on the best ideas, reduce bottlenecks, and maximize the impact of everything that's created while maximizing content velocity. Kontent.ai is an incredibly adaptable API-first cloud-native solution, so developers can use their favorite technologies, languages, and frameworks to deliver seamless experiences that look and feel great on any channel.

With offices in New York, London, Amsterdam, Brno, and Sydney, Kontent.ai supports global customers including Zurich Insurance, Cadbury, and Oxford University. Kontent.ai is a Microsoft partner and MACH Alliance member, recognized by both Gartner and Forrester. Visit kontent.ai to learn more about how we empower leading organizations.

Press Contact:

Erika Goldwater

[email protected]

Chameleon Collective

+1 617.407.3578

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180542
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - LevelJump Healthcare Corp. (TSXV: JUMP) (OTCQB: JMPHF) (FSE: 75J) ("LevelJump" or the "Company"), a Canadian leader in B2B telehealth solutions, wishes to announce the following:

Alberta Acquisitions Update

Further to its news releases of November 21, 2022, March 6 and July 5, 2023, the Company wishes to announce that it has settled the terms of a proposed debt facility with TD Canada Trust and anticipates receiving a formal agreement shortly. A portion of this debt facility will be used to close the purchase of 4 IHF centers in Calgary, Alberta. As disclosed previously, the financing with TD Canada Trust is a condition precedent required to be satisfied before the acquisitions can close. A formal closing date will be set once the debt facility agreement has been executed.

Updated Preferred Share Unit Offering

The Company has applied to the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") to update its preferred share unit offering. The Company has applied for the updated offering so that it may issue preferred share units (the "Units") as part of the consideration payable for the Alberta Acquisitions as well as raise working capital.

Subject to Exchange approval, the Company plans to sell up to 5,000,000 Units at $1 per Unit, which consists of (i) one (1) common share of LevelJump ("Common Share"), at an issue price of $0.10 per Common Share; and (ii) one (1) 12% cumulative redeemable convertible Class A Series 1 preferred share ("Preferred Share"), at an issue price of $0.90 per Preferred Share.

Each Preferred Share is non-voting, carries a cumulative annual dividend of 12% payable quarterly, along with a top up dividend of 25% of the portion of LevelJump's EBITDA that is above $2,000,000 per year, divided by the then outstanding Preferred Shares. The Preferred Shares are redeemable on the fifth anniversary (the "Redemption Date") after issuance at a price of $1.00 per Preferred Share (or at a price of $1.10 per Preferred Share if redeemed any time prior to the Redemption Date) together with all accrued and unpaid dividends. The Preferred Shares are also convertible, prior to being redeemed or called, into common shares of the Company at a price of $0.20 per Common Share. Subject to applicable law and to certain exceptions, LevelJump may, at any time prior to the Redemption Date, purchase for cancellation all or any number of the Preferred Shares outstanding from time to time at any price in the open market if they are listed or posted for trading on a stock exchange or by tender available to all of holders of Preferred Shares or by private agreement or otherwise.

To date, the Company has sold 214,000 units in prior offerings and intends to issue 1,130,000 units as part of the consideration for the Alberta Acquisitions. The balance of the offering will be sold primarily to accredited investors pursuant to exemptions under applicable securities laws.

About LevelJump Healthcare

LevelJump Healthcare Corp., (TSXV: JUMP) provides telehealth solutions to client hospitals and imaging centers through its Teleradiology division, as well as in person radiology services through its IHF's (Independent Healthcare Facilities). JUMP focuses primarily on critical care for urgent and emergency patients, establishing integral relationships in the communities we serve.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF

LEVELJUMP HEALTHCARE CORP.

Mitchell Geisler

Chief Executive Officer

Caitlin-Robyn Densmore

Investor Relations Manager

[email protected]

(437) 214-1568

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the Company's business plans and the outlook of the Company's industry. Although the Company believes, in light of the experience of its officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate, that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this release and the Company assumes no responsibility to update them or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances other than as required by applicable securities laws. The Company undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third-parties in respect of the Company, Canadian Teleradiology Services, Inc., their securities, or their respective financial or operating results (as applicable).

Neither the Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

The securities being offered have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor in any other jurisdiction.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180634
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - MTB Metals Corp. (TSXV: MTB) (OTCQB: MBYMF) (FSE: M9U) ("MTB" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company has closed the non-brokered private placements for Flow Through and Non-Flow Through Units, as announced on September 5th and September 12th for total gross proceeds of $1,120,502. The funds will be used primarily for exploration on MTB's Telegraph copper-gold project in the Golden Triangle of British Columbia.

Lawrence Roulston, CEO, stated: "With this top-up financing, we are expanding the drill program at Telegraph. The focus will remain on the Dok Trend, where initial drill results are highly encouraging, with sulphide mineralization encountered in drill holes 2.5 kms apart. In addition, the geological crew will be conducting further work on the Strata Trend and the Yeti Trend, both of which are prospective for additional porphyry mineralized centers."

Flow Through Offering

MTB raised gross proceeds of $992,502 from the sale 5,513,900 flow through units (the "FT Units"). Each FT Unit consists of one common share of the Company to be issued as a "flow-through share" within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (each, a "FT Share") and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "FT Warrant"). The price of each FT Unit is $0.18. Each FT Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $0.25 for a period of 24 months, expiring on September 14, 2025.

Non-Flow Through Offering

In addition, MTB also closed a non-brokered private placement of 800,000 units ("Units") at $0.16 per Unit for gross proceeds of $128,000. Each Unit consists of one common share and one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $0.18 for a period of 24 months, expiring on September 14, 2025.

A total of $50,298 finder's fees were paid in cash and the Company also issued 280,339 finder's warrants. Each finder's warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $0.16 for a period of 24 months, expiring on September 14, 2025.

All securities are subject to a four month hold period expiring on January 15, 2024.

The gross proceeds from the issuance of the FT Shares will be used to incur resource exploration expenses which will constitute "Canadian exploration expenses" as defined in subsection 66.1(6) of the Income Tax Act and "flow through mining expenditures" as defined in subsection 127(9) of the Income Tax Act (the "Qualifying Expenditures"), which will be renounced with an effective date no later than December 31, 2023 to the purchasers of the FT Units in an aggregate amount not less than the gross proceeds raised from the issue of the FT Shares. If the Qualifying Expenditures are reduced by the Canada Revenue Agency, the Company will indemnify each subscriber of FT Units for any additional taxes payable by such subscriber as a result of the Company's failure to renounce the Qualifying Expenditures.

Insiders' participation totals $100,000 Units and $64,080 FT Units. The placement to these people constitutes a "related party transaction" within the meaning of TSX Venture Exchange Policy 5.9 and Multilateral Instrument 61 101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61 101") adopted in the Policy. The Company has relied on exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61 101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61 101 in respect of related party participation in the placement as neither the fair market value (as determined under MI 61-101) of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the transaction, insofar as it involved the related parties, exceeded 25% of the Company's market capitalization (as determined under MI 61-101).

The securities offered have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor in any other jurisdiction.

About MTB

MTB has six active projects spanning 670 square kilometres (67,587 hectares) in the prolific Golden Triangle of northern British Columbia. With the focus on the Telegraph project, discussions are now underway leading to joint ventures and/or spinouts of other projects.

Telegraph is located in the vicinity of 4 world-class porphyry deposits being advanced by major mining companies: Galore (Teck / Newmont), Schaft (Teck), Saddle (Newmont) and the operating Red Chris copper-gold mine (Newcrest / Imperial Metals). Field work by MTB on its 310 square kilometre property, together with earlier results, provides compelling evidence for the presence of one or more porphyries, similar to others in the area. The American Creek project is centered on the historic Mountain Boy silver mine. The project is road accessible and 20 km from the deep-water port of Stewart. There are multiple silver, gold and copper occurrences on the property, including a 2006 drill hole that encountered 5 kgs of silver over 5 metres. Red Cliff is a past producing gold and copper mine in which the Company holds a 35% interest. Recent drill results include 2 meters of 26 g/t gold. On the BA property, 182 drill holes have outlined a substantial zone of silver-lead-zinc mineralization located 4 km from the highway. Several targets with high-grade silver potential remain to be tested. Surprise Creek, to the north, hosts the same prospective stratigraphy. On the Theia project, work by MTB and previous explorers has outlined a silver bearing mineralized trend 500 metres long, highlighted by a 2020 grab sample that returned 39 kg per tonne silver (1,100 ounces per ton). Two other zones on the property produced copper values over 5%. Southmore is in the midst of some of the largest deposits in the Golden Triangle. It was explored in the 1980s through the early 1990s and was overlooked until MTB consolidated the property and carried out airborne geophysics and field work which confirmed several zones of gold and copper, with values up to 20% copper and 35 g/t gold.

On behalf of the Board of Directors:

Lawrence Roulston

President & CEO

For further information, contact:

Caroline Klukowski

[email protected]

NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

This news release may contain certain "forward looking statements". Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this news release and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.

Not for distribution to United States Newswire Services or for dissemination in the United States

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180697
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Northstar Gold Corp. (CSE: NSG) ("Northstar" or the "Company"), announces the Company has closed the second tranche of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Offering") of units ("Units").

The second tranche consisted of 3,913,181 Units for a total of $215,225. This is in addition to a first tranche gross proceeds close of $219,450 previously announced on August 30, 2023. A total of $434,675 has been raised in both tranches. Northstar has since received additional orders to close a third tranche in the near term. The Units were priced at $0.055 and comprised of one common share of the Company and one share purchase warrant. Each full Warrant is exercisable into one additional common share of the Company at an exercise price of C$0.075 for a period of 24 months.

The Company paid a total of $3,975 cash in finder fees associated with the Offering and issued 72,273 finder warrants at an exercise price of $0.075 expiring 24 months from the closing date of the Offering. All securities issued under the Offering are subject to a statutory four month hold period from the closing date under applicable Canadian securities laws.

The gross proceeds from this private placement will be used primarily to fund Critical Minerals exploration at the historic high-grade Cam Copper Mine on the 100%-owned Miller Gold Property. Proceeds will also provide for LIDAR and MMI soil surveys on the Company's 100%-owned Rosegrove Property, targeting Critical Minerals and alkaline intrusion-hosted gold mineralization, and for general working capital purposes.

The participation of one director in the Offering constitutes a "related party transaction" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101") and the policies of the CSE. The Company is relying upon the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements pursuant to sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a), respectively, of MI 61-101 on the basis that, at the time the Offering was agreed to, neither the fair market value of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the transaction insofar as it involves interested parties (within the meaning of MI 61-101) in the Offering, exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization calculated in accordance with MI 61-101.

Northstar's primary exploration focus is the advancement of the Company's flagship, 100%-owned Miller Gold Property, situated 18 km southeast of Kirkland Lake and Agnico Eagle Mine's Macassa SMC gold mine. The Company's strategy is to develop a material (+1 million ounce) mineral resource base to support a stand-alone mining operation at the Miller Gold Property.

The Historic High-Grade Cam Copper Mine Critical Minerals Exploration Opportunity

On July 5th, 2023, Northstar announced high-grade copper results of a recent surface sampling program at the historic Cam Copper Mine site on the Company's 100%-owned, flagship Miller Property, situated 18 km southeast of Kirkland Lake, Ontario. The Cam Copper Mine is a road accessible satellite high-grade copper system situated 2.4 km southwest of the Allied Gold Zone, the advanced, near-surface bulk-tonnage alkalic gold-telluride exploration target being actively explored by Northstar.

High-Grade copper assays ranging between 0.99% and 31.8% copper were returned from 19 select surface grab samples containing massive to semi-massive sulphides (including massive chalcopyrite and bornite) and collectively weighing 43.39 kg, recently collected near the historic Cam Copper Mine site on the Miller Property in Pacaud Township. The weighted average grade of the 19 select samples collected from the historic muck pile and bedrock exposure near the historic shaft was 14.0% copper.

In addition to high-grade copper, one select sample that assayed 31.8% copper also returned 452 g/t silver, suggesting silver can also be a significant mineralization component.

The Cam Copper Mine hosts two separate lenses (Zone 1 and Zone 2) of massive copper sulphides about 40 metres apart striking and plunging southeast along the contact with the Round Lake Granite Batholith. Underground development took place between 1929 and 1953 which includes sinking of a 220' (66.7m) vertical shaft with 213' (64.5m) of cross cutting and 267' (80.9m) of drifting. The recent surface sampling results verify historic reporting of a 1955 shipment of 346 tons of hoisted underground ore which produced 43,411 lbs. of Cu(1) at a Noranda smelter for a recovered grade of 6.3% Cu. The ore was shipped directly from the mine site to the smelter without requiring further concentration in a mill. A previous 1948 shipment of 22 tons of ore to Noranda reportedly graded 12.72% Cu, 0.84 oz/t Ag and 0.03 oz/t Au(2), presumably from Zone 1.

Northstar recently obtained detailed historic Cam Copper Mine exploration, and development plans and production records that are currently being digitized and integrated into a 3D Cam Copper geological and exploration model. This model will provide the means to effectively propose a few short diamond drill holes targeting near-surface extensions of Zones 1 and 2 high-grade copper mineralization. Historic surface drilling intercepts include 12.4% Cu over 7.8' in Zone 1 and 11.8% Cu over 9.2' including 23.1% Cu over 4.6' in Zone 2 (3). Underground drilling intercepts include 9.6% Cu over 8.5' (4) including 16.6% Cu over 3.0'(5) in Zone 2 along strike to the southeast. Underground sampling over true widths was limited to massive sulphide bands and produced numerous high-grade intervals such as 14.79% Cu across 33" in Zone 1 within the hangingwall of the quartz breccia and 19.95% Cu across 24" in Zone 2 along the footwall breccia contact on the 200' level (4). Both zones remain open down plunge below the 200' level. Drilling is expected to be conducted in early Fall.

(1) Ontario Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines Mineral Deposit Inventory Record MDI31M13NW000154: Tretheway-Ossian- 1981, Ch.H. Cameron-1981.

(2) Ontario Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines and Mines Assessment File #KL-0259, Tretheway-Ossian (Cam Copper Mine). 1961

(3) Ontario Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines and Mines Assessment File #KL-0843, Prospectus of Fidelity Mining Investments Ltd. 1962.

(4) Ontario Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines and Mines, Cam Copper Mine Assay Plan Levels 1 and 2, Fidelity Mining Investments Ltd. 1962.

(5) Ontario Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines and Mines, KL File Map # 6393, Cam Copper Mine Plan showing location of diamond drill holes, section of shaft and plan of 1st and 2nd levels, Cam Copper Mines Ltd, 1955.

All scientific and technical information contained in this News Release has been prepared under the supervisionof Brian P. Fowler, P.Geo. President, CEO and Director of Northstar Gold Corp, a Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101.

About Northstar Gold Corp.

Northstar's primary exploration focus is the advancement of the Company's flagship, 100%-owned Miller Gold Property, situated 18 km southeast of Kirkland Lake and Agnico Eagle Mine's Macassa SMC gold mine. The Company's strategy is to develop either a minimum material (+1 million ounce) high-grade gold mineral resource to potentially supplement a nearby mining operation or a stand-alone mining operation at the Miller Gold Property.

Since going public by IPO in late 2020, Northstar has spent over $4.7 million in exploration at Miller, resulting in the discovery of a series of broad, near-surface, shallow dipping sheeted quartz-gold-telluride vein structures in the Allied Syenite (Allied Gold Zone) and Planet Syenites and numerous 70 - 750 gold gram/metre drill hole intercepts. Drilling to date at the AGZ has returned near-surface gold intercepts that include 6.6 g/t Au over 117.0 metres, 4.0 g/t Au over 50.6 metres, 1.4 g/t Au over 118.5 metres, and 1.2 g/t Au over 107.3 metres. Step out AGZ drilling in 2021 intersected peripheral steeply dipping copper-gold bearing structures (CG1 and CG2 Zones) returning intercepts that include 9.41 g/t Au, 1.03% Cu over 3.0m. The AGZ shares numerous compelling similarities to Agnico Eagle's nearby Upper Beaver Deposit, currently in the pre-development stage.

In April, 2022, as a precursor to a Mineral Resource Estimate and for reporting purposes, the Company commissioned Ronacher Mackenzie Geoscience and SRK Consulting (Canada) to conduct an Exploration Target Study of the Miller Property Allied Gold Zone and No. 1 Vein. An upper range exceeding 500,000 ounces of gold averaging 2.04 g/t Au has been referenced in this study. Results were reported July 26, 2022, (Click here to view Northstar News Release dated July 26, 2022) verifying the significance, size and gold grade potential of the Allied gold mineralizing system. Results provide the Company and investors a fact-based conceptual tonnage and gold grade range for the Allied Syenite Gold Zone, and basis for continued expansion drilling and mineral resource development.

In addition to drill testing extensions of the high-grade Cam Copper Mine this Fall, Northstar is positioning to conduct a Phase IIIA Allied Gold Zone lateral and depth expansion drill program on the Miller Gold Property.

Northstar has 3 additional 100%-owned exploration projects in northern Ontario, including the recently acquired 1,200 ha Rosegrove Property situated 0.5 km from the Miller Gold Property, the 4,650 ha Bryce Gold Property (includes the recently optioned Britcanna Lease), an intrusive-gold / PME VMS project located along the projected east extension of the Ridout Break, and the recently expanded Temagami-Milestone Cu-Ni-Co Critical Minerals Property located in Strathcona Township. Northstar is advancing all 3 properties to enhance monetization opportunities.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Mr. Brian P. Fowler, P.Geo.

President, CEO and Director

(604) 617-8191

[email protected]

Connect with us on Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (referred to herein as "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, disclosure regarding the completion of the Offering and potential gross proceeds to be raised pursuant thereto, the receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals, the prospective nature of the Company's property interests, exploration plans and expected results, conditions or financial performance that is based on assumptions about future economic conditions and courses of action; planned use of proceeds, expenditures and budgets and the execution thereof. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate" or "believes", or the negative connotation thereof or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results, "may", "could", "would", "will", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation thereof.

All forward-looking statements are based on various assumptions, including, without limitation, the expectations and beliefs of management, the receipt of applicable regulatory approvals. availability of financing, the assumed long-term price of gold, that the current exploration and other objectives concerning its mineral projects can be achieved and that its other corporate activities will proceed as expected; that the current price and demand for gold will be sustained or will improve; the continuity of the price of gold and other metals, economic and political conditions and operations; the prospective nature of the Company's properties, availability of financing, and that general business and economic conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner.

Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of NSG to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: risks and uncertainties related to the completion of the Offering as presently proposed or at all, the failure to obtain all applicable regulatory approvals; actual results of current exploration activities; environmental risks; future prices of gold; operating risks; accidents, labour issues and other risks of the mining industry; delays in obtaining government approvals or financing; and other risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties are not, and should not be construed as being, exhaustive.

Although NSG has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. In addition, forward-looking statements are provided solely for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans and allowing investors and others to get a better understanding of our operating environment. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements in this news release are made as of the date hereof and NSG assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180546
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Personas Social Incorporated (TSXV: PRSN) (the "Company") announces the launch of its Keek marketing initiatives.

The Company is proud to announce that it has completed the pre-launch phase of its Keek re-launch and will start marketing the service to users on September 15th, 2023.

The initial marketing campaign will be a Khloe Kardashian Giveaway contest of which the Company is a sponsor. The Giveaway contest will offer Khloe Kardashian Instagram followers a chance to win cash or prizes for following her sponsors' social media pages. This contest will be run back-to-back with a Keek contest that will offer users a chance to win a prize from the $30,000 prize pool being offered by the Company. To qualify for a chance to win, users must download the Keek app and follow Khloe Kardashian's profile on Keek. A random draw will take place on October 1st at the Company's offices in Toronto, Canada.

The Keek-sponsored contest will be advertised to the Company's approximately 1.5 million social media users, and to all users participating in the Khloe Kardashian Giveaway contest. This marketing imitative is the first of many that will happen regularly over the next several months.

For further information, please contact:

Personas Social Incorporated

Mark Itwaru

Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

647.789.0074

Mark Itwaru [email protected]

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements relating to the expected timing of the filing of the Annual Filings. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Corporation's expectations are risks detailed from time to time in the filings made by the Corporation with securities regulations. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Corporation will update or revise publicly any of the included forward-looking statements as expressly required by Canadian securities law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) has reviewed or accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this Release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180625
Lachute, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - Qubec Innovative Materials Corp. (CSE: QIMC) (FSE: 7FJ) ("QI Materials," "QIMC," or the "Company"), is pleased announce that a crew is scheduled to mobilize early next week to the newly acquired River Valley Silica Project (see September 07, 2023 news release).

River Valley Silica Project

Qi Materials plans on having a crew mobilized to the newly acquired River Valley Silica Project early next week. The Company plans on completing a breadth of exploration and development stages over the next few weeks. These are anticipated to include: establishing access, outcrop cleaning and stripping, channel sampling, detailed geological mapping, detailed geological sampling, a detailed topographic survey, and drill hole planning.

The River Valley Silica Project is host to a high purity quartz vein. Publically available historical* purity results and mapping indicate that the quartz vein is up 99.9% pure SiO 2 . Historical* mapping indicates that the quartz vein is over 300m long and over 40m wide. Figure 1 below shows historical* photos of a portion of the impressive quartz vein.

*Historical information is based on work performed by previous operators and access from the Ontario Ministry online database MLAS. Qi Materials Corp. has not yet verified these historical results.

Figure 1:Historical photos of a portion of the quartz vein

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7968/180589_qifigure1full.jpg

Frankfurt Listing

Qi Materials is pleased to announce that it has listed and started trading on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol 7FJ.

Market-Maker

Qi Materials is pleased to announce that it has retained PI Financial Corp. ("PI") for market making services in accordance with the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") policies. PI will trade the securities of Qi Materials on the CSE for the purposes of maintaining an orderly market. In consideration of the services provided by PI, the Company will pay PI a monthly cash fee of $5,000 for a minimum term of three months and renewable thereafter. Qi Materials and PI are unrelated and unaffiliated entities. PI will receive shares or options as compensation. The capital used for market making will be provided by PI.

Qualified Person

Raymond Wladichuk, P.Geo., (OGQ permit number: 02287, PGO license number: 3526), is the CEO of Quebec Innovative Materials Corp., and a Qualified Person for National Instrument 43-101 - Standards for Disclosure of Mineral Projects, approves the scientific and technical information contained in the news release.

About High Purity Quartz

Highly pure quartz (SiO 2 ) plays a pivotal role in two critical technologies shaping the future: solar panels and lithium silicon anode batteries. In the realm of renewable energy, quartz is the raw feed source of silicon metal (Si), a fundamental component in producing high-efficiency solar panels. Beyond solar panels, silicon metal is also a promising ingredient in lithium silicon anode batteries, offering the potential for increased energy storage capacity and improved battery performance, underscoring the indispensable role of quartz in advancing sustainable energy and cutting-edge technology. Furthermore, quartz-derived silicon has gained significant strategic importance, recently earning a place on the USA's strategic mineral list.

About Quebec Innovative Materials Corp.

Quebec Innovative Materials Corp. (CSE: QIMC) (FSE: 7FJ) (previously Quebec Silica Resources Corp.) is a mineral exploration, and development company with a portfolio of natural resource assets including high grade silica, hydrogen, and helium properties. QIMC is working toward becoming a sustainable supplier of resources which are essential in advanced batteries and the electrification of the green economy. The Company has a 100% interest in the Charlevoix Silica Project, near Clermont, Quebec, Canada, the River Valley Silica Project, near Sudbury, Ontario, as well as other mineral properties in Quebec. The Company also performs pilot processing on industrial minerals, refining processes to create custom products.

Additional information on Quebec Innovative Materials Corp.is available at www.qimaterials.com.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

QUEBEC INNOVATIVE MATERIALS CORP.

"Raymond Wladichuk, P.Geo."

Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please contact:

Investor Relations

Tel: +1 (514) 358-8840

Email: [email protected]

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the CSE policies) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements". Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Quebec Innovative Materials' actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur.

Although Quebec Innovative Materials believes the forward-looking information contained in this news release is reasonable based on information available on the date hereof, by their nature, forward-looking statements involve assumptions, known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Examples of such assumptions, risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, assumptions, risks and uncertainties associated with general economic conditions; the Covid-19 pandemic; adverse industry events; future legislative and regulatory developments in the mining sector; the Company's ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favorable terms; mining industry and markets in Canada and generally; the ability of Quebec Innovative Materials Corp. to implement its business strategies; competition; and other assumptions, risks and uncertainties.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of the Company as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While the Company may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/180589
Washington, D.C.--(Newsfile Corp. - September 14, 2023) - The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced settled fraud charges against GlennCap LLC, a Connecticut-based investment advisory firm, and its owner, Jonathan Vincent Glenn, for allocating profitable securities trades to favored accounts, including GlennCaps own accounts and client accounts that paid GlennCap a higher percentage of positive returns in fees, while allocating a disproportionate amount of unprofitable trades to disfavored clients, a practice known as cherry-picking.



According to the SECs order, between at least January 2020 and March 2022, Glenn, who was also an investment adviser representative of GlennCap, engaged in block trading, which allowed him to pool funds from multiple clients accounts into trades, and then, after seeing whether a position increased or decreased in value, he allocated the more profitable trades to accounts that he favored. The probability that the favored accounts received the more profitable trades by chance was statistically nearly zero. The SECs order finds that Glenn and GlennCap received at least $2.7 million in profits from the cherry-picking scheme. Further, the SEC order found that Glenn made false and misleading statements regarding GlennCaps trading practices in documents it provided to clients and prospective clients.



Glenn allocated millions of dollars from profitable trades to accounts benefitting himself while unloading unprofitable trades on GlennCaps clients, said Andrew Dean, Co-Chief of the SEC Enforcement Divisions Asset Management Unit. The SEC has the means to identify investment advisers that abuse their position through cherry-picking, as Glenn and GlennCap did. We use these methods to ensure investor trust in our markets.



The SECs order finds that Glenn and GlennCap violated Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 thereunder, Section 17(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, and Sections 206(1) and 206(2) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Glenn and GlennCap consented, without admitting or denying the SECs findings, to the entry of a cease-and-desist order requiring them to pay more than $3 million in civil penalties, disgorgement, and prejudgment interest.



The SECs investigation was conducted by Colin Forbes of the Asset Management Unit and John McCann and Al Day of the Boston Regional Office, with the assistance of Stuart Jackson and Stephen Graham of the Division of Economic and Risk Analysis. The investigation was supervised by Robert Baker of the Boston Regional Office and Mr. Dean and Corey Schuster of the Asset Management Unit. The SEC appreciates the assistance of the Securities and Business Investments Division of the Connecticut Department of Banking.


Karim Hyatt joins Generix Group, a global provider of collaborative SaaS Software solutions for the Supply Chain, industrial, and retail ecosystems as Chief Product & Innovation Officer. Karim takes charge of the Software Product & Innovation department and joins the Executive Committee. As part of the implementation of the Boost Together 2028 strategic plan and the Group's transformation, his mission is to develop the Group's offering by accelerating innovation, with the ambition of making Generix Group the world leader in supply chain digitalization.

Generix Group is stepping up the deployment of its Boost Together 2028 strategic plan and investments in its supply chain digitalization solutions. The company is placing innovation at the core of its strategy, in order to confirm its leadership in the management of information, administrative and physical flows for its 6,000 or so customers worldwide.

One of Karim Hyatt's priorities is to develop the group's offering with products that are increasingly standardized, 100% SaaS, and easily integrable thanks to a rich API catalog capable of creating highly configurable solutions. To carry out his mission, Karim relies on expert teams based in Europe and North America, and on a software engineering center based in Cluj, Romania. All these teams are brought together within an international organization, Software Product & Innovation, where new investments in equipment and industrialization are at work, serving the operational excellence of the entity and, above all, Generix Group's products.

Karim Hyatt's motto? To anticipate the business needs of Generix Group's customers as early as possible, in particular by making the most of available data. With a team of analysts and data scientists, brought together in Generix Group's Datalab, Generix will combine the best data analysis capabilities with the power of Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The new Resource Management System (RMS) solution for warehouse resource planning and optimization, announced in April 2023, is the first example of this new generation of products.

Our ambition: to become the world leader in Supply Chain software. In an environment where immediacy is the new norm, we need to be able to anticipate the needs of our customers and markets, and respond with innovative products that provide concrete, rapid answers to these challenges. I'm proud to be leading this transformation and to open this new path to innovation, by designing high-performance, resilient, scalable products that benefit from a strong dynamic of continuous improvement, using the very latest technologies.", says Karim Hyatt.

Karim Hyatt has over 20 years' experience in transforming innovative IT companies. He has held various technical, operations and general management positions at leading international technology companies such as Reuters, Cogneum, Emnos Analytics, Sierra Atlantic and Smiths Detection. He holds a Bachelor's of Science Computer Studies from the University of East London and is a Fellow of the Institute of Directors (FIOD) in London.





Contact Info:

Name: Ines Eberena

Email: Send Email

Organization: Generix Group

Address: 1360 Rue Ropery #201, Montreal, QC H3K 2X3

Phone: 5149224138

Website: https://www.generixgroup.com/en/press-release/generix-group-makes-innovation-driver-its-transformation-appointing-karim



Release ID: 89107315

In case of identifying any problems, concerns, or inaccuracies in the content shared in this press release, or if a press release needs to be taken down, we urge you to notify us immediately by contacting [email protected]. Our dedicated team will be readily accessible to address your concerns and take swift action within 8 hours to rectify any issues identified or assist with the removal process. We are committed to delivering high-quality content and ensuring accuracy for our valued readers.
Tortorella brings proven ability to drive performance in integrated health delivery systems and strong track record of delivering quality and operational improvements in complex health care environments; industry visionary Steve Rodgers to step down after 11 years as CEO and serve as an advisor.

DALLAS , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AccentCare, one of the largest and highest quality post-acute health care providers in the nation, announced that Laura Tortorella will join the organization as CEO on October 2, 2023 . Current CEO Steve Rodgers will step down after 11 years and serve as an advisor through the remainder of 2023 to allow for a successful transition.

AccentCare announces Laura Tortorella to join as CEO on October 2

Tortorella, a proven leader in health care, steps into the role after serving as the Chief Operational Officer (COO) at Steward Health System since 2020 and with the organization since 2010. In her role as COO, she led the organization through the most complex of operational challenges, including managing supply chain and labor management during the COVID-19 pandemic and leading integration efforts for all of Steward's acquisitions. Tortorella brings vast expertise to the home health space after serving as a leader for an organization that operates as an integrated health care delivery system, performed as an industry leading ACO, and has more than 30,000 employees, 33 community hospitals across nine states and a medical group of more than 1,700 providers.

"Laura has one of the sharpest analytical and entrepreneurial mindsets in the field and has spent her entire career building highly functioning teams that are committed to culture, performance, accountability and collaboration. She knows what is needed to maintain AccentCare's position as a leader in the industry for years to come," said Carmine Petrone , managing director at Advent International, one of the largest and most experienced global private equity investors, and owner of AccentCare. "She has seen firsthand the value of home health and hospice care within the continuum of post-acute services and understands the critical needs an organization like AccentCare is working to solve. Laura is the right leader to bring AccentCare to new heights moving forward. At the same time, I want to thank Steve for his many contributions to the success of the organization after being at the helm for more than a decade as CEO. He has been a trusted partner, and I wish him the best in the future."

Given her experience working at an integrated health system, Tortorella keenly understands the role AccentCare plays in the current value-based health care environment and sees significant opportunity to expand AccentCare's relationships with health systems and payors. Tortorella intends to use her experience bringing stakeholders together through a data-driven approach to identify where AccentCare can create new partnerships with health systems and payors to deliver more high-quality care to patients in need.

"I am honored and thrilled to join AccentCare. I keenly understand the importance of high-quality post-acute care services in my role helping lead one of the nation's largest health systems," said Tortorella. "For patients, family members, referring clinicians and health systems, it can be difficult to find a clinical partner in post-acute care. The role that AccentCare plays in our health care system is vital, and I look forward to working with the 30,000 compassionate AccentCare professionals across the nation to meet the country's growing post-acute care needs."

As Rodgers departs the organization, he leaves behind a legacy of growth and evolution within a changing industry. Under Rodgers' leadership, AccentCare has expanded to 255 locations serving 31 states and the District of Columbia , and its workforce has grown to more than 30,000 incredibly dedicated employees focused on high quality patient care. AccentCare has been at the forefront of reimagining home care to transform health care, and its patients' lives, for the better.

"I have had the honor of working with an incredible team at AccentCare for more than a decade," said Rodgers. "During that time, the organization has experienced growth through the expansion of existing services into new markets, creation of joint ventures with leading health systems, acquisitions and mergers and the addition of new care offerings. Looking back to where we started and seeing where we stand now, I am incredibly proud of what we accomplished, and I look forward to working with Laura as she assumes the role of CEO."

About AccentCare

AccentCare is a nationwide leader and trusted guide in post-acute health care covering a broad continuum of services including home care, palliative care, hospice and personal care services. Our innovative care models and strategic relationships with major health systems, physician groups, insurers and value-based providers give us a full understanding of how to deliver the best possible experience for patients and their families. Because of these distinct advantages, we can relentlessly reimagine and advance the standards of care in our communities.

Headquartered in Dallas , AccentCare and our regional partners have over 30,000 highly trained and compassionate professionals in more than 250 locations across 31 states and the District of Columbia , serving more than 200,000 individuals each year. Learn more at www.accentcare.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/accentcare-appoints-laura-tortorella-as-new-chief-executive-officer-301928551.html

SOURCE AccentCare
YANGLING, China , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 30th China Yangling Agri High-Tech Fair will kick off in the agricultural sci-tech hub Yangling City in west China's Shaanxi Province on September 19 , with an event focus on soil health and food security.

With a total exhibition area of more than 100,000 square meters, the fair has attracted more than 1,500 exhibitors from 49 countries and regions. More than 9,000 new sci-tech achievements, the most advanced new agriculture-related equipment and the most practical new agricultural technologies will be displayed in the fair, according to the Organizing Committee.

During the five-day event, 11 activities will also be held, including the Global Soil Health Forum 2023 and the China-Central Asia Agriculture Ministers' Meeting.

Experts from the United States , Australia , Kyrgyzstan , Columbia and other countries will exchange views and share policies, technologies and experiences in the field of soil health in a joint effort to protect soil health and address global challenges.

The agri high-tech fair will also go abroad for the first time by setting up an exhibition area in the China Shaanxi Commodity Exhibition and Trading Center of SCO Agricultural Base in Uzbekistan , the guest of honor, to display agricultural technology and specialty agricultural products, agricultural machinery and equipment, and biomedicine.

People from all over the world can also carry out activities such as online exhibition, livestreaming, online negotiations, management services and promotion through digital formats such as 3D virtual tour of sand tables and VR exhibition hall.

China Yangling Agri High-Tech Fair, was founded in 1994 and is one of the largest and most influential comprehensive agricultural sci-tech exhibitions in China .

Over the past 30 years, it has attracted tens of thousands of agriculture-related enterprises and scientific and educational institutions from over 70 countries and regions around the world, and more than 33 million attendees.

The fair has seen the display of over 180,000 projects and products, and the publishing of more than 12,600 sci-tech achievements and patents, registering a cumulative investment and transaction volume of more than 1 trillion yuan .

Image Attachments Links:

Link: https://iop.asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=442199

Caption: Exhibitors are introducing exhibits to visitors at the 29th China Yangling Agri High-Tech Fair. Visitors learn about specialty agricultural products at the agricultural exhibition area of the SCO countries.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/agri-high-tech-fair-to-be-held-in-chinas-agri-sci-tech-hub-yangling-301928082.html

SOURCE The Organizing Committee of China Yangling Agricultural Hi-Tech Fair
ARLINGTON, Va. , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Boeing [NYSE: BA] announced a $300,000 donation (equivalent to 3,000,000 MAD) from the Boeing Charitable Trust to assist with Moroccan earthquake recovery and relief efforts. The company also pledged to match dollar-for-dollar monetary donations from Boeing employees who contribute to the cause, extending the reach of assistance provided to the Moroccan people.

"Amidst the devastation left in the wake of this earthquake, we extend our deepest sympathy to Moroccans who are enduring such unimaginable hardship," said Ziad Ojakli , executive vice president of Government Operations at Boeing. "Boeing colleagues around the world are dedicated to supporting the people of Morocco , and we stand ready to collaborate with local partners to provide meaningful assistance that leads to healing, rebuilding and renewal."

Boeing funding will support the following organizations:

$150 ,000 to the American Red Cross , in partnership with the global Red Cross and Red Crescent network, for shelter, food, health and mental health services and other relief such as hygiene kits, basic necessities and welfare information.

to the , in partnership with the global and Red Crescent network, for shelter, food, health and mental health services and other relief such as hygiene kits, basic necessities and welfare information. $150 ,000 to CARE International for emergency water, food and medical support for survivors.

"Thanks to Boeing's generous support, the global Red Cross network is helping those affected by the Morocco earthquake," said Anne McKeough, chief development officer at the American Red Cross. "We are grateful for partners like Boeing as we work together to provide comfort and hope for communities in the wake of this devastating disaster."

"The reports we are hearing from the ground are heartbreaking. According to our team in Morocco , hundreds of people are sleeping in the streets at night, lying in blankets in parks in the heart of Marrakesh, too afraid to go home," said Madden Manion , executive director of Corporate Partnerships, CARE International. "People are exhausted, and the emotional fear and horror of what they have experienced is indescribable. These coming days are critical, and the generous and timely support shown by Boeing will help us immensely in our work. CARE's priority is to provide hot meals, safe water supply, emergency shelter, medical and psychosocial support."

Disaster relief efforts in Morocco align with Boeing's commitment to communities where Boeing employees live and work. Boeing's presence in Morocco spans more than 50 years. Over the past decade, Boeing has contributed approximately $1 million in charitable giving in the country.

About Boeing

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future and living the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Learn more at www.boeing.com.

For more information about Boeing's philanthropic efforts, please visit the Company's Global Engagement website.

Contacts

Boeing Communications

[email protected]

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/boeing-donates-300-000-to-assist-moroccan-earthquake-relief-efforts-301927081.html

SOURCE Boeing
Reform marks a victory for patients with serious mental illness and encourages stability, timely treatment

SACRAMENTO, Calif. , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Patients with serious mental illness in California will have better, more consistent access to prescribed medication thanks to AB 1437, a bill passed by the California State Legislature.

The bill ensures that, if patients with serious mental illness have already completed a prior authorization for their prescribed antipsychotic medication in the past 12 months, they won't have to undergo additional re-authorizations for a refill. Prior authorization is a process whereby insurance companies must approve a clinician-prescribed medicine, procedure or test before a patient can get coverage.

The Alliance for Patient Access, the California Access Coalition and the Psychiatric Physicians Alliance of California thank Assembly Members Jacqui Irwin and Sharon Quirk-Silva and applaud the California State Legislature for passing AB 1437 with wide bipartisan support.

"AB 1437 is a straightforward, transformational step in ensuring patients remain stable and retain access to their already approved medications," said Rimal Bera , MD, chairman of the Alliance for Patient Access' Mental Health Working Group. "Arbitrary insurance barriers burden both patients and providers and often serve to destabilize the most vulnerable. I'm encouraged that the legislature has recognized this and taken steps to ensure appropriate mental health care for Californians. AfPA and our Mental Health Working Group urges the Governor to sign this important piece of legislation."

"The California Access Coalition has led a coalition of cosponsors and supporters for several years and we are thrilled to get to this point in the legislative process. We remain committed to advancing policies that ensure that patients have more timely access to needed medications. We urge the Governor to sign this important bill," said Dr. Le Ondra Clark Harvey , executive director of the California Access Coalition.

"AB 1437 avoids the bad outcomes that inevitably occur when you don't get the right medication, at the right time, to the right patient. Psychiatrists strongly support this legislation," said Randall Hagar , a legislative advocate and policy advisor at the Psychiatric Physicians Alliance of California.

Supporting Serious Mental Illness Patients in California

A serious mental illness is a mental, behavioral or emotional disorder that places a serious impairment on a patient's ability to participate in daily life. Major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder are all types of serious mental illnesses.

Treating patients with serious mental illness in a timely manner and providing them with the support they need can help them maintain stability and quality of life. Adherence is critical for these patients. But the slightest delay in receiving prescribed treatment  especially treatment that is ongoing  can disrupt care and undermine the trust between patient and health care provider.

The Harm of Prior Authorization

Excessive utilization management tactics, such as prior authorization, can prevent patients from accessing the treatment they need in a timely manner. Completing a prior authorization can take days, even weeks, with no guarantee that a patient's authorization will be approved. Patients may go without their medication for long stretches during the authorization approval process, and then they still may be unable to access the right treatment if their approval is denied.

About the Alliance for Patient Access

The Alliance for Patient Access is a national network of policy-minded health care providers who advocate for patient-centered care.

About the California Access Coalition

The California Access Coalition is a network of local and state behavioral health organizations that advocate to eliminate barriers that keep Californians from accessing medication and behavioral health treatment.

About the Psychiatric Physicians Alliance of California

The Psychiatric Physicians Alliance of California is a network dedicated to serving the interests and needs of psychiatrists throughout the state while advocating for sound and equitable mental health care for all Californians.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/california-legislature-passes-ab-1437-to-reduce-access-barriers-for-mental-health-patients-301928539.html

SOURCE Alliance for Patient Access; California Access Coalition; Psychiatric Physicians Alliance of California
BEIJING , Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- "[We are] ready for what will be a historic visit for the strengthening of cooperation ties and the construction of a new world geopolitics," Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro wrote on social media last Friday when he landed in southern Chinese city of Shenzhen , the first stop in his trip to China between September 8 to 14 .

In Beijing , Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday welcomed President Maduro's fifth visit to China and called on the two sides to push for more fruitful China - Venezuela strategic cooperation, bring more benefits to the two peoples and inject more positive energy into world peace and development.

Both leaders on Wednesday announced the elevation of the China - Venezuela relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership, ahead of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations next year.

Good friends, partners

During the meeting, Xi emphasized that China and Venezuela are good friends who trust each other and good partners for common development.

He told Maduro that China views relations with Venezuela from a long-term strategic perspective and, as always, will support Caracas in protecting national sovereignty and countering external interference.

China and Venezuela signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for cooperation on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on September 14, 2018 with bilateral cooperation running smoothly in areas such as energy, agriculture, infrastructure and high technology.

China is the main trade partner of Venezuela . In the first half of the year, bilateral trade rose 16 percent year-on-year to $1.92 billion , customs data showed.

In July, Venezuela officially joined the China-led International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). President Xi on Wednesday also congratulated Venezuela for becoming the first country in Latin America to join the project.

After their talks, the two leaders also witnessed the signing of a number of bilateral cooperation documents covering the areas of joint construction of the BRI, economy and trade, education, tourism, science and technology, health, aerospace and civil aviation.

Setting an example for South-South cooperation

When asked about the reason for choosing Shenzhen as the first stop of his trip, Maduro earlier told reporters that his country is keen to draw on the development experience of Shenzhen , one of China's first special economic zones which was at the forefront of China's reform and opening-up policy.

During his meeting with Maduro, President Xi spoke about China's reform and opening up, especially the development of special economic zones.

He said China supports Venezuela in setting up special economic zones and will share relevant experience to help its national development.

China stands ready to work with Venezuela to firmly support each other in exploring a development path suited to their national conditions and strengthen Party and national governance exchanges, Xi stressed.

Maduro hailed Venezuela - China relationship an exemplary of international relations in the Global South.

The people of Venezuela express their heartfelt gratitude to China for its invaluable support and assistance at a time when Venezuela was suffering from the multiple difficulties posed by the illegal unilateral sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic, he added.

As a member of Global South, China firmly supports South-South cooperation and insists on doing its best to help other developing countries achieve common development.

The Global Development Initiative (GDI), proposed by President Xi , now includes over 200 cooperation projects. The Chinese president also just announced to set up a special $10 billion fund dedicated to the implementation of the GDI at the BRICS summit in August.

Moreover, China has created the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund with a total funding of $4 billion .

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2023-09-13/Xi-holds-talks-with-Venezuelan-president-1n4ajf4mqli/index.html

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cgtn-china-venezuela-usher-in-a-new-era-of-bilateral-relations-301927247.html

SOURCE CGTN
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced a new addition to its board of directors, Laura Fuentes , effective September 15 .

Brian Niccol , Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, stated: "We are pleased to welcome Laura to Chipotle's board. Her people leadership experience and deep understanding of the global hospitality industry will be pivotal in helping Chipotle to deliver added value to our guests, communities, employees and shareholders."

With Ms. Fuentes' election, the Chipotle board will now be comprised of 10 directors, 9 of whom are independent, with 40% female representation. The board is committed to ongoing director refreshment and continues to consider new, qualified independent directors.

"I am honored to be joining the board of Chipotle  a high-growth organization with strong values and a commitment to cultivate a better world," said Laura Fuentes . "I look forward to working alongside this respected group of leaders and lending my experience to help Chipotle achieve its strategic goals."

Laura Fuentes is the Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer of Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc., a role she's held since 2020. Prior to that, Ms. Fuentes held the position of Chief Talent and Diversity Officer and several other executive roles at Hilton since joining the company in 2013. For six years, she served in various Corporate Strategy and Human Resources roles at Capital One Financial Corporation. Before that, she worked at McKinsey & Company advising clients across various industries in their Madrid, New York , and Washington, D.C offices. Ms. Fuentes serves as a board member for two nonprofit organizations, Make-a-Wish Mid-Atlantic and Arlington Free Clinic. Additionally, she represents Hilton on the Tent US Advisory Council for refugees and serves on the board for the University of Virginia McIntire School of Commerce.

Originally from Spain , Ms. Fuentes holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Virginia, a Masters of Science in Structural Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin and an MBA from Columbia University. She brings extensive knowledge across corporate strategy and human resource functions including recruiting, diversity and inclusion, learning and development, total rewards and people analytics.

ABOUT CHIPOTLE

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically-cooked, real food with wholesome ingredients without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Chipotle had over 3,250 restaurants as of June 30, 2023, in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Germany and is the only restaurant company of its size that owns and operates all its restaurants in North America and Europe. Chipotle is ranked on the Fortune 500 and is recognized on the 2023 list for Fortune's Most Admired Companies and Time Magazine's Most Influential Companies. With over 110,000 employees passionate about providing a great guest experience, Chipotle is a longtime leader and innovator in the food industry. Chipotle is committed to making its food more accessible to everyone while continuing to be a brand with a demonstrated purpose as it leads the way in digital, technology and sustainable business practices. For more information or to place an order online, visit WWW.CHIPOTLE.COM.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chipotle-appoints-laura-fuentes-to-its-board-of-directors-301928360.html

SOURCE Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.
TAMPA, Fla. , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CPL, a full-service design firm serving public and private-sector clients for more than 48 years, is pleased to announce the addition of Ryan Daniels , AIA, NCARB, CM-BIM as Vice President and Florida Healthcare Practice Leader. In this pivotal role, he will facilitate CPL's expansion into the Florida healthcare market to address regional gaps in service and expertise.

Drawing from experience spanning two decades, Daniels will enhance CPL's healthcare practice and assemble a FL team.

Drawing from a wealth of experience spanning more than two decades in client-focused, innovative design, Daniels will enhance CPL's existing healthcare practice, nurture robust client partnerships and assemble an agile team throughout Florida . His impressive portfolio encompasses the full spectrum of master planning and design for a wide range of inpatient and outpatient facilities; these include cancer, rehabilitation and surgery centers and hospitals across the United States . Counted among his noteworthy clients are Moffitt Cancer Center, AdventHealth, Lakeland Regional Health, Baptist Health Jax, BJC HealthCare and the Mercy healthcare system.

"Ryan's forward-thinking approach and in-depth healthcare experience align seamlessly with our mission to positively impact the communities we serve," remarked Timothy Knapp , AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Executive Vice President and National Healthcare Practice Leader at CPL. "His collaborative nature will foster a dynamic culture, uniting diverse perspectives into future-ready design solutions."

Combining healthcare expertise with intensive co-creation, CPL's teams work alongside hospital leadership, providers and the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) to curate efficient spaces that promote holistic well-being. Under Daniels' leadership, the team will embrace sustainable design practices and technology-driven solutions that address Florida's distinct healthcare needs, benefiting providers, patients and families alike.

Daniels brings to CPL leadership history in a number of prominent healthcare design firms, with a track record of cultivating thriving studios and spurring learning and development through hands-on mentorship.

He holds dual degrees, a Bachelor of Architecture and a Bachelor of Design Arts from Drury University, and is a licensed architect in both Missouri and Florida . He also possesses a Certificate of Management in Building Information Modeling (CM-BIM) and maintains accreditation with the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB).

Actively engaged in several professional and community organizations throughout his career, including the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Board of Directors, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), AIA's Young Architects Forum and the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), Daniels also volunteers with the AIA and nonprofits such as the Academy of Architecture for Health (AAH), the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS), Habitat for Humanity and Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful. Furthermore, he will continue to serve as a Juror for the Nightingale Awards at the 2023 Healthcare Design Conference + Expo (HCD).

CPL looks forward to bringing Daniels' unique blend of design vision and extensive industry healthcare knowledge to clients in Florida and across the country.

About CPL

Founded in 1975, CPL is a 480-person multi-disciplined architecture, engineering and planning firm offering inspiring design services and enriching communities in 20 cities across six states. CPL specializes in the Community, Healthcare, Higher Education, K-12 Education and Transportation market sectors  providing architectural, interior design, civil engineering, buildings and structural engineering, planning, landscape architecture and 3D/virtual design services to a host of public and private clients. Visit www.CPLteam.com to learn more.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cpl-welcomes-ryan-daniels-to-lead-healthcare-efforts-in-florida-301927284.html

SOURCE CPL Architecture | Engineering | Planning
SHANGHAI , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ELEGOO, a rapidly developing brand in the global smart manufacturing industry that specializes in R&D, manufacturing, and sales of consumer-grade 3D printers and other smart technology products, has made its debut at the 2023 TCT Asia exhibition in Shanghai and made a splash with a spectacular showcase of its latest products. Among the highlights were the cutting-edge Jupiter SE resin printer and the debut of the OrangeStorm Giga, an impressive large FDM industrial printer. With these innovations, ELEGOO promises an immersive 3D printing experience for users.

ELEGOO strategically divided the ELEGOO exhibition at TCT Asia into three zones, offering visitors an immersive experience of the professional 3D printing world along with its latest technologies.

At its Product Display Zone , ELEGOO presented its classic consumer-grade resin and FDM printer series. The lineup included the award-winning Mars and Saturn series, recognized by prestigious tech websites such as All3DP and Tom's Hardware. The company's standout product at this event was the OrangeStorm Giga, which made its global debut. The OrangeStorm Giga is ELEGOO's first-ever Large FDM printer, boasting extraordinary features like the Klipper high-speed silent motherboard, a print area of 800mm x 800mm x 1000mm, and a unique extrusion design. OrangeStorm Giga's lightweight and aesthetically pleasing design has piqued the interest of both industry professionals and consumers. The all-in-one body design allows for quick setup and maintenance, allowing consumers to avoid the hassle of installation and start printing easily.

Meanwhile, ELEGOO set up the Printing Zone, a space where customers could immerse themselves in the world of 3D printing. Product engineers were on hand to provide guidance and answer questions for both industry newcomers and enthusiasts alike. Visitors were able to experience the joys of transitioning from 2D designs to stunning 3D creations up close.

In addition, ELEGOO established a zone for model showcasing, concentrating on the widespread industry applications of 3D printing technology, such as anime figurines, jewelry design, educational models, and dental applications, among others. An on-site team was readily available for comprehensive product exploration and engaging discussions with interested individuals.

Originating in the UK , TCT Asia held its first Asian edition in Shanghai in 2015 and has since grown into a premier event for the 3D printing industry. The exhibition showcases the latest in 3D printing, additive manufacturing, and product development technology. It brings together industry professionals, manufacturers, suppliers, and innovators to share knowledge, expertise and to foster business relationships. The event is held annually in Shanghai, China .

TCT Asia 2023 took place from September 12-14 at the Shanghai National Convention and Exhibition Center, China . This three-day event occupies over 230,000 square meters, featuring participation from more than 430 companies offering end-to-end solutions, including 3D scanning, engineering software, additive manufacturing equipment, and post-processing solutions.

For more information about ELEGOO and its latest products, please visit http://www.elegoo.com/, or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter), YouTube and TikTok.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/elegoo-debuts-at-tct-asia-2023-with-its-first-large-fdm-industrial-printer-301927820.html

SOURCE ELEGOO
MEMPHIS, Tenn. , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- FHN Financial is pleased to announce John Feery , Senior Vice President, has been promoted to Head of Negotiated Municipal Underwriting, effective immediately. A 35-year veteran in municipal underwriting, John is recognized nationally for serving in a variety of leadership roles during his career. John joined FHN Financial in 2017 and has been the senior national negotiated underwriter since that time. Additionally, Mason McWilliams , Senior Vice President, is transitioning into a new role as FHN Financial's Texas Negotiated Underwriter to be located in Houston, TX. Mason has been with FHN Financial since 2003.

FHN Financial's Municipal Products team has experienced explosive growth in pricing negotiated sale transactions in 2023. Since July 1 , FHN Financial Capital Markets has served as Bookrunner on 19 transactions, totaling an estimated $1.58 billion in par. During the week of July 31 alone, FHN Financial led six transactions as Bookrunner for nearly $750 million in par generating nearly $3 billion in priority orders from 85 unique institutional customers.

Michael Allen , Executive Vice President and Head of Municipal Products, stated, "Since joining our team in 2017, John Feery's leadership on our Negotiated Municipal Underwriting Desk has been instrumental in taking our national Public Finance efforts to the next level, and his hands-on approach has produced outstanding results. Particularly in Texas , which is the firm's largest Public Finance market. In recognition of the importance of the Texas market to the firm, we are excited that Mason McWilliams , a 20-year veteran of the firm's Municipal Desk, will move to Houston to take on the strategic role as Texas Underwriter, pricing negotiated transactions from the firm's established Texas Municipal Desk. Mason's transition is yet another sign of FHN Financial's long-term commitment to continued growth in the Southwest Region , and we look forward to his expanded contributions to the Municipal Products Group."

Ajay Thomas , Executive Vice President and Head of Public Finance, added, "I could not be more excited to have both John and Mason working together leading the pricing execution of our negotiated municipal securities transactions. The Municipal Products team has consistently demonstrated our ability to reach a significant number of investors, in many cases new participants in issuers' credits. Over the last several years, FHN Financial has continued to underwrite bonds successfully, regardless of market conditions. I am confident that John and Mason will be a formidable team and we will continue to meet and exceed our issuers' financing objectives and expectations."

FHN Financial Capital Markets, headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee , is a division of First Horizon Bank. FHN Financial has 31 offices located across the United States , including Municipal Underwriting and Trading Desks in Memphis, New York , Morristown , Radnor , and Houston and Public Finance offices in Atlanta , Austin , Birmingham , Charlotte , Chicago , Dallas , Houston , Memphis, New York , Scottsdale, Tampa , and Westlake ( Ohio ). FHN Financial Capital Markets focuses on issuers and institutional investors through various business lines including public finance, underwriting, sales, and trading of fixed income products, supported by credit and portfolio strategy, economic outlook, and analysis.

Information about FHN Financial and its entire offering of products and services can be found at www.fhnfinancial.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fhn-financial-capital-markets-explosive-municipal-growth-continues-301928545.html

SOURCE First Horizon Corporation
HealthWell Is Honored to Announce Its Participation in National Effort To "End Cancer as We Know It"

GERMANTOWN, Md. , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The HealthWell Foundation, an independent non-profit that provides a financial lifeline for inadequately insured Americans, is announcing its participation in an effort to advance the goals of the White House Cancer Moonshot. HealthWell Foundation was recognized for its efforts in the most recent White House Cancer Moonshot Fact Sheet, published Wednesday, September 13 .

As part of the Cancer Moonshot Initiative, in 2024 HealthWell Foundation will:

Commit to providing more than $300 million to underinsured oncology patients to offset out-of-pocket medication costs. The financial support will enable patients to adhere to prescribed treatment regimens and improve their survival.

to underinsured oncology patients to offset out-of-pocket medication costs. The financial support will enable patients to adhere to prescribed treatment regimens and improve their survival. Begin to provide financial assistance to qualified clinical trial patients to address disparities in participation in oncology clinical trials.

Support oncology caregivers through a new fund to help individuals with certain out-of-pocket financial needs, seeding $500,000 for the program.

The Cancer Moonshot Initiative, coordinated through the White House, is mobilizing efforts nationally to prevent more than four million cancer deaths by 2047 and to improve the experience of people who are touched by cancer. The goal is to "end cancer as we know it."

"We are honored to be included in the White House Cancer Moonshot initiative and to further our commitment to support oncology patients who cannot afford their often lifesaving medications," said HealthWell Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer, Krista Zodet . "HealthWell's participation advances our mission and service to the patient community. In the medical oncology space alone, we have provided over $1.67 billion in financial assistance to more than 300,000 underinsured cancer patients who may have otherwise forgone critical medical treatments simply because their health insurance was not enough."

About the HealthWell Foundation

A nationally recognized, independent non-profit organization founded in 2003, the HealthWell Foundation has served as a safety net across over 85 disease areas for more than 822,000 underinsured patients. Since its inception, HealthWell has provided over $3.3 billion in financial support through more than 1.3 million grants to access life-changing medical treatments patients otherwise would not be able to afford. HealthWell provides financial assistance to adults and children facing medical hardship resulting from gaps in their insurance that cause out-of-pocket medical expenses to escalate rapidly; HealthWell assists with the treatment-related cost-sharing obligations of these patients. HealthWell ranked 34th on the 2022 Forbes list of The 100 Largest U.S. Charities and was recognized for its 100 percent fundraising efficiency. For more information, visit HealthWellFoundation.org.

CONTACT:

Ginny Dunn

240-632-5309

[email protected]

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/healthwell-foundation-is-highlighted-by-the-white-house-cancer-moonshot-initiative-301928068.html

SOURCE HealthWell Foundation
LOS ANGELES , Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Californians for Homeownership, a nonprofit organization sponsored by the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS (C.A.R.) that aims to address California's housing crisis through impact litigation, announced today that it has prevailed in its lawsuit against the City of Beverly Hills to enforce state housing planning laws.

Following a September 12 hearing, a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge granted the organization's petition for writ of mandate, finding that Beverly Hills had not complied with its legal duty to plan for housing under the regional housing needs allocation (RHNA) and housing element system.

"This is a milestone decision in state housing law," said C.A.R. President Jennifer Branchini . "For far too long, cities and counties have used unrealistic and underdeveloped housing plans to skirt around state planning rules. This case proves that the Legislature's recent improvements to housing element law go a long way toward solving this problem, so long as these new laws are vigorously enforced."

The RHNA and housing element system is an interconnected process for ensuring that California's cities and counties plan for adequate housing to address statewide and regional housing needs. In the RHNA assessment, state and local governments work together to identify regional housing needs and distribute them among a region's cities and counties. Each city and county must then develop a "housing element"  a component of the city's general plan that identifies sites available for future housing development sufficient to meet the city's RHNA allocation. If the city cannot identify adequate sites, it must change its zoning to allow additional housing development.

Traditionally, certain cities have avoided the bulk of the housing element planning process by obtaining unreasonably low RHNA allocations. Although Beverly Hills has long been a major jobs center and hub of commerce in Southern California , its 2013-2021 allocation was just 3 units. But recent changes have made the RHNA allocation process more robust, and the City was assigned a 2021-2029 RHNA of 3,104 units, including 1,688 units of housing for low- and very low-income households.

So the city shifted its approach, choosing to identify broad swaths of the City's commercial corridors as potential sites for housing, even though most of these sites contain established office, medical, and cultural uses that have little potential for residential development by 2029. The city also drastically overcounted the realistic development potential on these sites, using a calculation method that assumed that the existing buildings on all of the sites will be razed and replaced with ground-up residential developments, at the maximum density allowed by law.

"These are exactly the sorts of maneuvers that the recent changes to housing element law were designed to address," said Matthew Gelfand , the in-house litigator for the nonprofit. "When cities include inappropriate sites and overcount the potential housing on those sites, it undermines the RHNA system and is deeply unfair to those cities that have put in the work and developed realistic housing plans."

The organization first sued the city over its housing element in January. The city amended its housing element in February, and the lawsuit was amended to challenge the new version. Both versions of the city's housing element have been rejected by the state Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), which is charged with reviewing housing elements for compliance with state law. In opposing the lawsuit, the city argued that it was entitled to broad discretion in crafting its housing element, despite recent changes to state law designed to limit that discretion.

This week's decision against Beverly Hills is expected to lead to a final judgment that will require the city to revise its housing element on an expedited basis. Additionally, the ruling should give needed certainty about the applicability of the so-called "builder's remedy" to housing developments in the city. The "builder's remedy" refers to provisions in state housing law that ease development of projects in cities and counties that have not complied with their housing element obligations.

"We are aware of a number of builder's remedy projects that have been proposed in Beverly Hills , and our hope is that the decision in our case will help those projects move forward while also encouraging developers to come forward with additional projects in the next few months," Gelfand said.

Housing element compliance has been a major focus for Californians for Homeownership over the last two years. The nonprofit offers to forgo litigation against cities that are willing to acknowledge and comply with the state law penalties for non-compliance. Beverly Hills declined this offer. To date, the organization has filed over 20 housing element lawsuits and has settled 10. The settlements generally commit cities and counties to specific timelines for adoption or revision of their housing elements and require them to comply with the "builder's remedy" while out of compliance.

The case is Californians for Homeownership v. City of Beverly Hills , Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. 23STCP00143. A copy of the court's decision will be made available on request.

Californians for Homeownership is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization sponsored by the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS devoted to using legal tools to address California's housing crisis. For too long, California's cities have treated compliance with state and federal housing law as optional. The organization seeks to change that attitude by proactively enforcing the law, on behalf of the important public interest in having additional housing available to families at all income levels. Californians for Homeownership was established by the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS (C.A.R.), and it receives financial support from C.A.R. and private donors. To make a tax-deductible charitable contribution today, visit caforhomes.org.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/housing-group-wins-lawsuit-against-city-of-beverly-hills-over-faulty-housing-planning-301927086.html

SOURCE CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS (C.A.R.)
Honoring Exceptional Contributions to Sustainability and the Clean Energy Sector

DENVER , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The renewable energy community is coming together to celebrate the remarkable legacy of Kacie Peters , a dedicated advocate for clean energy and sustainability, by introducing the inaugural Kacie Peters Impact Award. This prestigious accolade will honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the clean energy sector, embodying the values and dedication that Kacie Peters exemplified throughout her incredible career. This award is generously supported by Pivot Energy , the Colorado Solar and Storage Association (COSSA), the Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA), and other dedicated industry professionals.

Kacie Peters demonstrated an unwavering passion for clean energy and was driven by a deep sense of purpose in creating a more sustainable future. Throughout her career, Kacie actively fostered connections and a sense of community within the sector, in addition to inspiring and guiding others to pursue careers and initiatives in clean energy.

Kacie Peters , with over a decade of experience in the solar industry and most recently serving as the Senior Director of Communications for Pivot Energy, left an indelible mark on the clean energy community. Kacie was a solar energy influencer whose thought pieces expanded renewable energy and encouraged inclusivity. She served on the board of Women of Renewable Industries and Sustainable Energy (WRISE), created the industry networking monthly event series, Solardarity, to foster partnerships and increase solar deployment nationally. She served as a board member for the Colorado Solar and Storage Association, the Illinois Solar Energy Association, and played an active role in the Colorado leadership team for Clean Energy for Biden 2020. Kacie Peters was a member of the SEIA commercial financing working group and served on the Solar Power International Education Committee.

The Kacie Peters Impact Award aims to recognize individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the clean energy sector. The award criteria include:

Passion for Clean Energy Community Building Advocacy and Leadership Resilience and Perseverance Dedication to Equity and Inclusion Positive Mentorship Impact on Future Generations Collaboration and Partnerships

Nominations for the Kacie Peters Impact Award will open annually, with the first round of nominations to be collected in the summer of 2024.

The Kacie Peters Impact Award is more than just an accolade; it's a tribute to Kacie's enduring spirit and a commitment to continue the work she started. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating her legacy and recognizing the outstanding individuals who are making a difference in the clean energy sector.

"Kacie's greatest strength was an ability to excite people about big ideas and connect colleagues and friends. While she had a natural talent for networking, she also worked hard to improve her skills and was always willing to teach others some tricks. Sometimes, these skills are hard to quantify and get overlooked, so I'm very happy that this award will provide recognition for other folks like her," said Kacie's husband, Erik Stanley .

"It's been a privilege to have worked alongside Kacie over the last 5 years. I got to see firsthand the fierceness of her drive to spread solar adoption and make the industry welcoming to newcomers," said Melanie C. Kelly , VP of Marketing and Client Partnerships for Pivot Energy. "I'm honored to have the opportunity to create this annual award with other strong women in the solar industry that memorializes Kacie's legacy and promotes the values and impact she had throughout her career."

For more information about the Kacie Peters Impact Award and updates on the nomination process, please visit pivotenergy.net/kpimpact .

Media Contact:

Kate Laursen

203-610-5879

[email protected]

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/inaugural-kacie-peters-impact-award-celebrates-clean-energy-champions-301928311.html

SOURCE Pivot Energy
BURLINGTON, N.C. , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Labcorp (NYSE: LH), a global leader of innovative and comprehensive laboratory services, is hosting an Investor Day beginning at 1:00 p.m. ET today in New York City , expected to conclude by approximately 4:00 p.m. ET . The event will highlight the company's go-forward strategy from Labcorp Chairman & CEO Adam Schechter , followed by business overviews and a longer-term financial outlook by members of the leadership team.

"Labcorp is the world's largest laboratory service provider focused on science, technology and innovation," said Adam Schechter , chairman and CEO of Labcorp. "Today, we are excited to share our roadmap for strong growth and shareholder value across Diagnostics Laboratories and Biopharma Laboratory Services. We believe that our focus on customers and our ability to execute with scale and operational excellence will drive strong profitable growth and further differentiate Labcorp."

Webcast Information

A live webcast of the event will be available through the Labcorp Investor Relations website beginning at 1:00 p.m. ET . A replay of the webcast and a copy of presentation materials will be available on the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at https://ir.labcorp.com.

About Labcorp

Labcorp (NYSE: LH) is a global leader of innovative and comprehensive laboratory services that helps doctors, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, researchers and patients make clear and confident decisions. We provide insights and advance science to improve health and improve lives through our unparalleled diagnostics and drug development laboratory capabilities. The company's more than 60,000 employees serve clients in over 100 countries, worked on over 80% of the new drugs approved by the FDA in 2022 and performed more than 600 million tests for patients around the world. Learn more about us at www.Labcorp.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements with respect to the company's expectations and opportunities for future growth.

Each of the forward-looking statements is subject to change based on various important factors, many of which are beyond the company's control. These factors, in some cases, have affected and in the future (together with other factors) could affect the company's ability to implement the company's business strategy and actual results could differ materially from those suggested by these forward-looking statements. As a result, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of the forward-looking statements.

The company has no obligation to provide any updates to these forward-looking statements even if its expectations change. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Further information on potential factors, risks and uncertainties that could affect operating and financial results is included in the company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Forms 10-Q, including in each case under the heading RISK FACTORS, and in the company's other filings with the SEC. The information in this press release should be read in conjunction with a review of the company's filings with the SEC including the information in the company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, and subsequent Forms 10-Q, under the heading MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/labcorp-to-present-strategy-business-and-financial-outlook-at-investor-day-301927692.html

SOURCE Labcorp
WASHINGTON , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Safe Kids Worldwide and the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) are teaming up during Child Passenger Safety Week, Sept. 17-23, 2023 , to help parents and caregivers protect their children in and around cars. The organizations provide free in-person and online resources for families, including the following:

Additionally, parents and caregivers are invited to join JPMA, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and Safe Kids Worldwide for a Child Safety Chat on September 20 and 27 at 8 p.m. ET on Safe Kids Worldwide's Facebook page.

Car crashes are a leading cause of injury and death for children under age 15. Each day in the U.S. , 445 children are injured and three are killed in car crashes according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

"A properly used and installed child safety seat can reduce the risk of injury and death by as much as 71 percent, but too many families do not have access to the education and safety devices that every child deserves," said Safe Kids Worldwide's President Torine Creppy . "Buckling up every ride, every time, in the right safety seat is the single most effective way to protect a child."

Unfortunately, research shows that more than half of car seats are not used or installed correctly.

"Car seats are designed to protect children from crash forces and the injuries they cause, and they are extensively regulated and tested," said JPMA's Director of Child Passenger Safety Joseph Colella . "Following the specific instructions is crucial, and car seat manufacturers are ready to help parents do that through customer service, online resources, and more."

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/learn-car-seat-safety-tips-during-child-passenger-safety-week-301927110.html

SOURCE Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA)
Top pre-settlement funding company offers fastest cash settlement funding approvals and best rate guarantee for rideshare cases.

SAN FRANCISCO , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Legal-Bay, the Pre Settlement Funding Company, announced that they are seeing an increase in Uber filings. While most ridesharing lawsuits tend to center around roadway accidents, a more sinister trend has crept into the courtrooms: A growing number of claims have been filed by passengers who say they've been sexually assaulted while utilizing ridesharing services. As a result, Uber lawsuits have reached an all-time high.

Between 2017 and 2018, there were approximately 6000 reports of sexual assault or harassment including over 400 allegations of outright rape perpetuated by Uber drivers alone. The numbers dropped in 2020but only because of lessened reporting of incidents, not necessarily occurrences. Ridesharing companies are liable for any misconduct carried out by their drivers, as they are solely responsible for the over 1 billion pairings of passengers to rides every year. The standard by which Uber is being held is their own "Drive Safe" policy, as there is no way for riders to be aware of how many complaints a driver may have on their employment record. What's more, Uber's support staff doesn't record perceived sexual misconduct (such as passengers who've reported feeling uncomfortable with their driver flirting or asking inappropriate questions), allowing riders to remain dangerously unaware of some major red-flag behavior.

Chris Janish , CEO of Legal-Bay, says, "The need for ridesharing companies like Uber has increased in recent months. Unfortunately, these cases tend to take an exorbitant length of time to resolve in the courts. With increased demand for settlement funding, we are prepared to offer same-day funding along with our best price guarantee."

If you are a plaintiff with an active Uber or Lyft lawsuit and need an immediate cash advance lawsuit loan against an impending settlement, please visit Legal-Bay HERE or call toll-free at 877.571.0405.

Plaintiffs in these accidents are seeking restitution for the harm done to them by predatory drivers. Rather than wait indefinitely for these cases to see the inside of a courtroom, more claimants than ever are turning to presettlement funding.

Legal-Bay is considered one of the best lawsuit funding companies when it comes to Uber cases. They are able to approve legal funding applications within 24-hours from receiving case documents, and stand ready to provide needed lawsuit loan funds immediately afterward.

Legal-Bay's loans for lawsuit programs are designed to provide immediate cash in advance of a plaintiff's anticipated monetary award. The non-recourse lawsuit loanssometimes referred to as loan on lawsuit or loan for settlementare risk-free, as the money doesn't need to be repaid should the recipient lose their case. Legal-Bay funds all types of loans for lawsuits including personal injury, slip and falls, dog bites, medical malpractice, and many more.

To apply for loan settlement funding right now, please visit the company's website HERE or call toll-free at: 877.571.0405 where agents are standing by to discuss any questions you may have about settlement loans.

Source: Legal-Bay, LLC

Contact: Chris Janish , CEO

Email: [email protected]

Ph.: 877.571.0405

Website: www.Legal-Bay.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/legal-bay-settlement-loan-funding-reports-increase-in-applications-for-uber-sexual-assault-claims-301928056.html

SOURCE Legal-Bay, LLC
DiGangi Brings Decades of NYC-centric Experience for Employee Engagement and Continued Organizational Growth

NEW YORK , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MetroPlusHealth, New York City's high-quality and affordable health plan, announced today the appointment of Mary DiGangi as its new Chief People Officer . With over 30 years of experience in human resources and talent management, Mary brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record of fostering diversity, inclusion, and leadership development.

"We are thrilled to welcome Mary to our executive team," said Dr. Talya Schwartz , President & CEO of MetroPlusHealth. "Her extensive background in HR will be instrumental in our continued growth and commitment to our employees. I also want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Simran Kaur for her exceptional service and dedication as our former Chief People Officer , and I wish her the best for her next chapter."

"It is a privilege to be a part of the MetroPlusHealth family. As Chief People Officer , I am committed to nurturing an environment where our employees can thrive, innovate, and contribute to the betterment of our city community," said DiGangi. "I look forward to continuing to build a culture that values every individual, fosters growth and drives our shared vision of accessible, affordable and high-quality health care forward."

In her new role, Mary will collaborate closely with Dr. Talya Schwartz , CEO, executive leadership, HR teams and staff to establish a people-centric vision that attracts top talent aligned with MetroPlusHealth's mission to create comprehensive health care by New Yorkers, for New Yorkers. Her responsibilities will encompass talent acquisition, training and development, employee engagement, organizational design, and performance management. Mary succeeds Simran Kaur , who after a remarkable nine-year journey with MetroPlusHealth, will transition to a strategic advisory role.

Prior to joining MetroPlusHealth, Mary held various leadership roles at the Metropolitan Jewish Health System, one of New York's largest not-for-profit elder care health systems. Her accomplishments include reshaping HR structures during the COVID-19 pandemic, managing three successful post-merger integrations and demonstrating expertise in conflict resolution and contract negotiations.

Mary holds a B.S. in Business Management from Brooklyn College and an M.S. in Business Management and Organizational Leadership from the City University of New York Graduate Center.

About MetroPlusHealth

Since 1985, MetroPlusHealth has helped the people of New York City get quality health care at little to no cost. MetroPlusHealth is the plan of choice for over 700,000 New Yorkers, and its commercial and government-sponsored plans meet the needs of individuals, families, and workforces. The MetroPlusHealth staff speaks more than 40 languages and is as diverse as the great City it serves. MetroPlusHealth is part of NYC Health + Hospitals, the nation's largest public health system. For more information, visit metroplus.org. Join the conversation on social media at @metroplushealth.

MEDIA CONTACT: Michelle Dominguez ; [email protected]

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/metroplushealth-announces-mary-digangi-as-new-chief-people-officer-301928090.html

SOURCE MetroPlusHealth
Leading Franchising Expo Host Adds "Franchise Expo Austin" to Robust 2024 Schedule, Anticipating Record Turnout After 2023 Success

GLEN ROCK, N.J. , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MFV Expositions ("MFV") and Comexposium , the nation's leader in connecting the franchising world with motivated entrepreneurs, announced today the addition of Franchise Expo Austin to its 2024 domestic show schedule.

This news follows the successful conclusion of the 2023 season with record attendance at Franchise Expo South in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. , on September 8-9 , preceded by the International Franchise Expo ("IFE" ) and Franchise Expo West earlier this year. During the three shows in 2023, more than 10,000 attendees from 73 countries and 49 states interacted with 450+ franchise brands from different industries.

Bringing the show to Austin for the first time in MFV's three decades of touring will amplify the show's ability to connect franchisors from around the world with aspiring business owners who are looking to get into business for themselves, but not by themselves.

"We've witnessed a surge in demand for more avenues to connect entrepreneurs with franchisors. In response to that demand, we are introducing Franchise Expo Austin to further MFV's dedication to empowering small business owners and the franchise organizations eager to partner with them," said Martin Joksimovic , President of MFV Expositions. "This expansion positions us to catalyze more success stories and pave the way for numerous business ventures in the year ahead."

MFV's complete 2024 domestic expo schedule is as follows:

MFV's three annual events and the addition of the Austin, Texas , expo are expected to attract another wide range of domestic and international entrepreneurs, comprising the most qualified and motivated prospects in franchising.

Working with the International Franchise Association ("IFA") in an exclusive partnership, MFV's 2024 expos promise to be comprehensive showcases of diverse franchise concepts across a wide range of industries, including food and beverage, healthcare, retail, services and more. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage directly with industry experts, renowned franchisors and successful franchisees. They will gain invaluable insights into the franchising landscape, discover emerging trends and access cutting-edge resources and tools to empower their entrepreneurial journeys.

Details from MFV and Comexposium regarding an international show schedule are still to come.

To learn more about MFV Expositions, visit franchiseexpo.com . To learn more about Comexposium, visit comexposium.com .

About MFV Expositions:

MFV Expositions is the world's largest producer of franchise expos, known for its highly successful franchise events produced throughout the U.S. and around the world. The company offers face-to-face opportunities for prospective franchisees to meet franchisors looking to grow their brand. Each expo features franchise concepts representing nearly every industry and investment level, along with a robust conference program for attendees and franchisors.

About Comexposium:

Comexposium is one of the world's leading event organizers. Globally, it hosts more than 135 B2B and B2B2C events across many different sectors, including agriculture, construction, fashion, food, health, leisure, real estate, retail, security and tourism. With events in over 30 countries, Comexposium welcomes more than 3.5 million visitors and 48,000 exhibitors annually. Headquartered in France , Comexposium's employees and sales network operate in 20 countries.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mfv-expositions-expands-franchise-expo-lineup-for-2024-connecting-entrepreneurs-nationwide-301928002.html

SOURCE MFV Expositions
This partnership is the latest step forward in Diverzify's mission to unify the once fragmented industry nationally, allowing the company to better serve its expansive customer base.

ATLANTA , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Diverzify, the nation's leading commercial flooring and interior services provider, is proud to announce its strategic acquisition of Arizona -based Wholesale Floors, LLC. This latest expansion of the Diverzify network of brands reinforces the company's commitment to delivering exceptional commercial flooring and interior surfaces solutions to clients across the United States .

Wholesale Floors is the latest strategic partner to join Diverzify's growing network of commercial flooring brands.

With more than 2,500 employees and a robust presence in almost every major market in the US, Diverzify is continually working to redefine the fragmented commercial flooring and interior services landscape. Through its innovative approach, the company has united top industry leaders, like Wholesale Floors, under one network, setting new standards of quality and excellence in the industry.

Known for its nearly 45 years of experience and its status as the largest commercial flooring company in Arizona , Wholesale Floors specializes in delivering comprehensive flooring solutions to institutional and corporate clients. With a track record of excellence, responsiveness, and innovation, Wholesale Floors has earned a reputation as a preferred distributor of top flooring brands and as being one of the most knowledgeable and professional flooring contractors in North America .

Diverzify CEO, Jordan Zmijewski , expressed great enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "Further solidifying Diverzify's presence in the Arizona and West Coast markets aligns perfectly with our mission to provide our customers with seamless flooring solutions on every project, large or small, no matter where they are in the country. We strive to be our customers' go-to flooring and interiors experts. Wholesale Floors' focus on the healthcare and education sectors, as well as its unique experience with polished concrete, complements our established experience across many diverse industries, as well as our growing specialized services offerings."

The merger of these two businesses is poised to bring together the expertise, resources, and industry knowledge of both Diverzify and Wholesale Floors, resulting in an even stronger force in the commercial flooring and interior services sector.

"Wholesale Floors is extremely excited to be joining the Diverzify network and looks forward to contributing to the overall growth this will bring to the commercial flooring industry," added Wholesale Floors CEO, Josh Sugidono .

As Diverzify continues its growth journey, this acquisition reaffirms the company's commitment to delivering unparalleled quality and service to clients nationwide. This partnership stands as another noteworthy milestone in Diverzify's growth journey, marked most recently by the joining of surface care experts, The APEX Group, to the network earlier this summer.

ABOUT DIVERZIFY

Diverzify is the largest commercial flooring and interior services provider in the country with approximately 2,500+ employees and a network of 7,500+ installers in almost every major market in the US. The first-of-its-kind enterprise has revolutionized the historically fragmented industry. Diverzify has built a network of brands that allows the enterprise to unify the optimal experts, services, and resources for every project, every time. By blending traditional craftsman service quality with advanced technologies and specialized training, Diverzify is establishing new measures of service and success for the industry.

Diverzify's family of brands includes:

APEX Group

CCS Floors

Collaborative Turnkey Solutions (CTS)

DiverzifyPro

Epoxy S.I.

Floors by Beckers

Flooring Solutions

Kenny Floor Covering

Kiefer USA

Pavilion Floors

ProSpectra

RD Weis Companies

ReSource

Select Prefab Solutions (SPS)

Spectra Contract Flooring

Wholesale Floors

For more information about Diverzify, visit www.diverzify.com

ABOUT WHOLESALE FLOORS

Founded in 1979, Wholesale Floors, LLC (WF) began operating as a regional service provider and distributor of commercial flooring in the Phoenix Arizona market providing design and installation services for both institutional and corporate clients.

Since 1992, Wholesale Floors has grown organically from a small distributor and installation contractor to a full-service design and installation company. Through a company culture created and based upon client responsiveness and a commitment to excellence, Wholesale Floors has become the largest flooring company in the State of Arizona and is consistently ranked as one of the top ten commercial flooring contractors in the U.S. by both Floorcovering Weekly and Floor Focus Magazines with annual sales volume exceeding 50 million dollars .

For more information about Wholesale Floors, visit www.wholesalefloors.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/national-commercial-flooring-installer-diverzify-expands-west-coast-footprint-with-acquisition-of-phoenix-based-wholesale-floors-llc-301928272.html

SOURCE Diverzify
ABILENE, Texas , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Natura Resources moved one step closer to deploying its first molten salt reactor (MSR) system with the grand opening on Sept. 1 of the facility that will house this first-of-a-kind reactor. The 28,000-square-foot Science and Engineering Research Center (SERC) at Abilene Christian University (ACU) is the first advanced reactor facility constructed in the U.S. and the site where Natura will first demonstrate its reactor technology.

"We're pushing beyond paper reactors... we have opened the facility where we will deploy our first molten salt reactor."

On hand to celebrate the grand opening of the SERC were more than 300 people, including donors, investors, government officials, national lab representatives, scientists from the Natura Resources Research Alliance, and leadership from Zachry Group, which just last month was selected to complete the detailed design engineering of this first MSR.

David Holcomb , molten salt reactor technology leader at Idaho National Lab, made clear the significance of this facility and the work that will take place within it:

"Enabling the deployment of advanced nuclear reactors and developing advanced fuel cycles are vital parts of realizing the potential of nuclear energy to meet U.S. energy, environmental, and economic needs. This science and engineering research center and the research reactor which it will house directly support achieving these national goals."

Doug Robison , Founder and President of Natura Resources, in reference to this historic event, had this to say:

"At Natura Resources we're pushing beyond paper reactors. The construction permit application for this first system is currently under review with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. We just brought Zachry Group onto our team to complete the detailed design engineering of the system. And now we have officially opened the facility where we are going to deploy our first MSR system. The need for clean, sustainable energy is too great to just talk about what might be. Our world needs an energy company that doesn't just make promises about sustainability goals but actually performs, and that's what we're doing at Natura Resources."

Natura Resources is seeking to deploy its first MSR system in this new facility by 2026, and then begin deploying larger systems for commercial operations in the early 2030s. Natura intends to deploy MSRs that are factory-built modular construction and fully walk-away safe. These reactors will produce firm, carbon-free energy with significantly less waste than conventional reactors due to the utilization of liquid fuel. Ultimately, Natura Resources' line of MSRs will create safe, clean, on-demand energy that can produce carbon-free electricity, provide both electrical and thermal energy to support a range of applications that require high-temperature steam or process heat, such as water desalination and chemical/material production, and produce life-saving medical isotopes, all at a competitive price.

About Natura Resources

Natura Resources is an advanced reactor developer located in Abilene, Texas , committed to answering the world's increased demand for reliable energy, medical isotopes, and clean water by developing commercially deployable molten salt reactors. To support this vision, Natura brought together Abilene Christian University, Texas A&M University, The University of Texas at Austin, and Georgia Institute of Technology to form the Natura Resources Research Alliance. This revolutionary partnership between an advanced nuclear developer and a team of universities has helped put Natura Resources at the forefront of MSR deployment. Visit www.naturaresources.org for more information.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/natura-resources-celebrates-opening-of-first-advanced-reactor-facility-301928387.html

SOURCE Natura Resources
Navigating the complex world of online lending in the USA demands strategic partnerships and a commitment to compliance, according to Gregory Allen , CEO of ASAP Finance.

CAPE CORAL, Fla. , Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Finance and loans are regulated very seriously by the state, as they significantly affect the well-being of people. Business in this area requires special scrupulousness. Today, we decided to talk with a competent person from this field. Gregory Allen , CEO of ASAP Finance. Gregory has spent years helping people get loans with low credit scores. Thanks to this experience, he acquired in-depth knowledge in the field of loans and became a true expert in this field.

Thank you for joining us today, Gregory. Please describe what ASAP Finance does.

Gregory Allen : Of course, I will be happy to explain ASAP Finance's key products and services.

ASAP Finance is one of the players in the financial sector that provides financial solutions for people who need money fast. If a person needs to borrow money urgently, our platform will find a lender for the person.

When borrowers take out a loan online from us, there are no hidden or additional fees. We cooperate only with trusted lenders, so contacting us will help a person save money and time. Unlike traditional financial institutions such as banks and credit unions, our online lenders do not conduct rigorous credit checks. This means people can borrow money online and not have to worry about their credit score getting worse.

What challenges and opportunities do you currently see in the financial market, and how does ASAP Finance intend to respond to them?

Gregory Allen : One of the challenges is the strict application of rules and procedures by traditional banks when issuing loans, which can make access to finance difficult.

On the other hand, there are good points. For example, our ASAP Finance platform can help in situations where major banks may refuse loans. We do not conduct strict credit checks, which makes us more flexible when considering loan applications. This means we can help people who don't meet standard banking requirements.

Please describe how ASAP Finance ensures compliance across all states, given the varying regulations in place.

Gregory Allen : ASAP Finance, as a company committed to complying with rules and regulations, systematically upholds the laws of every state. We have niche experts who monitor all changes. ASAP Finance promptly adapts its operations to meet specific requirements set by each state.

We work in more than 5 states and consider the specific laws for each. For example, the limit for payday loans is $300 in California . In Florida , you can get a payday loan for $500 . And there are such restrictions in many states; we keep abreast of any changes in our company.

Let's talk about how the company remains abreast with ever-changing lending and loan brokering laws.

Gregory Allen : Let's start by saying that we are following very closely changes in credit and credit intermediation laws. Firstly, we have a team of lawyers who closely monitor new rules. We control government and regulatory announcements to ensure we are always updated with the latest developments.

In addition, we continually train our employees to ensure they understand current laws and regulations. This helps us comply with laws and make informed decisions when we deal with loans.

Finally, we check our work and conduct reviews occasionally to ensure that we always follow current guidelines. This proactive approach helps us remain compliant with laws while providing high-quality service to our clients.

Are there any concerted initiatives or joint undertakings with fellow stakeholders in the sector to influence the creation of conducive regulatory circumstances?

Gregory Allen : Yes, we collaborate with other companies and institutions in our area to create beneficial rules for everyone. We work together to make sure all parties involved get a good deal. We join forces with other interested people to ensure that our industry grows successfully and meets the needs of everyone.

What specific patterns do you follow to remain competitive in your industry?

Gregory Allen : We at ASAP Finance have a common goal  to help people overcome financial difficulties. We try to find solutions for each client, regardless of his credit rating.

People who need a loan no longer have to waste time collecting documents; now everything is much simpler, and they only need to submit an application online. We also provide various options where people can choose a convenient payment schedule. The application is processed fairly quickly, and a loan response is in less than 15 minutes. Our reputation is important to us; therefore, we work only with licensed lenders.

What advice would you give to business owners looking for additional funding to grow their businesses?

Gregory Allen : I have a few simple recommendations. First and most important, know your business well from the inside. Before seeking additional financial support, ensure you fully understand your business's pros and cons and growth potential. Then, determine the amount of funds you need and what they will be used for. A clearly defined strategy will allow you to communicate your needs to potential financial partners.

There are different ways to obtain financial support, such as loans, investors, grants, or partnerships. Research each option to determine which is best for your organization and financial situation. When you discuss your financial needs with potential lenders or investors, be open and transparent about your business's financial situation and problems.

How do you see the future of the financial industry, and how does ASAP Finance plan to remain competitive and innovative?

Gregory Allen : With the financial sector evolving rapidly, we will continue to innovate our approach. Banks still tend to have complex loan approval processes, and our platform will continue to evolve its strategies to make it easier for people to get loans. This will allow us to help more people.

Thanks a lot for your answers and advice.

Gregory Allen : I am always happy to share my experience and help new business people.

Gregory Allen , the CEO of ASAP Finance, an industry-leading, non-traditional connecting service that provides nationwide short-term financing for people with any credit.

About ASAP Finance

ASAP Finance is an innovative connection service that offers people across the nation access to short-term financing.

Press Contact:

Karoline Morgan

(518) 963-6698

https://asapfinance.org/

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/navigating-the-regulatory-landscape-of-online-lending-in-the-usa-tips-from-gregory-allen-ceo-of-asap-finance-301926804.html

SOURCE ASAP Finance
DALLAS , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Palm Beach Tan , Inc., the nation's largest indoor tanning provider, is proud to announce a $105,000 donation to the Maui Relief Fund, thanks to the generous support of its customers, franchisees, and corporate team.

"I want to extend a heartfelt 'thank you' to all of those who joined us in this effort to help the people of Maui ," said Diane Lucas , CEO of Palm Beach Tan. "This contribution is a testament to the generosity and compassion of our community, and I'm immensely proud of the support shown to those in need."

Palm Beach Tan held the fundraiser over Labor Day weekend, donating half of the profits from every Premier Collection product sold to the Maui Relief Fund.

The fund, established by the Hawaii Community Foundation, is playing a vital role in providing rapid response and recovery resources to those affected by the recent devastation in Maui .

"This island means so much to me personally and to our brand, and it's inspired so much of who we are today," Lucas added. "This initiative reflects our dedication to not only providing top-tier beauty and skincare products but also our strong sense of corporate responsibility towards the communities we know and love."

For more information about Palm Beach Tan, please visit www.palmbeachtan.com .

ABOUT PALM BEACH TAN:

Founded in 1990, Palm Beach Tan, Inc. is the leader in the indoor tanning industry, operating more than 650 locations nationwide, both corporate and franchise-owned, under the brands Palm Beach Tan and Planet Tan. The company has revolutionized the industry through innovative technology, products and services, as well as a commitment to the education of the brand's more than 3000 salon beauty consultants. Palm Beach Tan offers the convenience of rewards-based memberships and a full range of beauty services, including multiple levels of sunbeds, sunless spray tanning and skin care, and its proprietary line of premium tanning and skincare products, Premier Collection. For more information about Palm Beach Tan, Inc., please visit www.palmbeachtan.com .

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/palm-beach-tan-raises-105-000-for-maui-relief-fund-301928116.html

SOURCE Palm Beach Tan
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Makeda Kumasi , the founder of WE 3 PRODUCTIONS, has been gracing stages professionally across California for over two decades as a phenomenal force with her dancing, teaching, directing, and performances. As a global beacon for the Pan-African arts, she has inspired adults and children alike as a respected resource, particularly throughout Los Angeles' Inland Empire. As the recent recipient and one of 26 individual artists to receive a Creative Corps Inland Empire Grant from the California Arts Council in addition to an individual Alliance for California Traditional Arts Living Culture grant, Kumasi is observing National Dance Day in jubilant celebration! National Dance Day, co-founded by Nigel Lythgoe , the creator of "So You Think You Can Dance," and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton , is acknowledged each year on the third Saturday in September to demonstrate support for dance as a form of valuable exercise and artistic expression.

As a California Arts Council grant recipient, Kumasi will work in collaboration with Joy Wilson of Caribbean Joy Dance Group and Monique Williams-Randolph of Unity Dance Studio in Victorville, CA on a yearlong project, "Dancing with the Leaders of the Inland Empire." The expansive endeavor will oversee interviews with local community and government leaders regarding their engagement and knowledge of the traditional dance practices from their culture and or contemporary styles they enjoy. The team will also implement West African, Caribbean and jazz dance workshops; audition for choreography based on the dances mentioned in the leaders' dance interviews; and produce three multimedia shows incorporating documentary video of the project leaders' interviews, original choreography, and live music.

The Alliance for California Traditional Arts Living Culture (ACTA) grant is a coveted individual artist stipend which allows Kumasi to repair and maintain the instruments used in her community youth program, "The Sesh Project," and further develop her "Soulful Saturday Drum and Dance Class" at Akoma Unity Center in San Bernardino, CA , while also providing financial support for her traveling Urban Djali Tour.

"This year's National Dance Day holds significant meaning for me. Dance is more than movement, it's wholistic medicine for the body and mind. As an artist, these kinds of grants are crucial to our livelihood and the expansion of our creative articulations. The California Arts Council's recognition of my commitment and efforts in the world of dance is affirming on so many levels. 'The Dancing with the Leaders' project is going to be groundbreaking and I'm looking forward to our final productions. On the other hand, the ACTA grant enables me to continue to expand my personal mission as an artist and culture bearer, shining a light on the beauty of Africa and sharing the healing that comes from participating in her diasporic arts," expresses Kumasi.

Makeda Kumasi is indeed a living embodiment of the beauty of dance. The founder of the art firm, WE 3 PRODUCTIONS, as well as the co-founder and artistic director of The Umoja Ensemble of the Inland Empire, she is a continuing lecturer at the University of California, Riverside in the Department of Dance, and a lecturer in the Department of Theater, Film and Digital Production. Recently, Kumasi became an adjunct professor in the Performing Arts Department at Long Beach City College and her West African dance choreography will be featured in their upcoming fall production. Her work with children is equally impactful working extensively with the youth through various performing arts programs including "The Sesh Project" through the Kumasi School of the Performing Arts.

Her career highlights are many and her personal accomplishments include book author with titles, "12 Days in Senegal : An Artist's Journey," and "I See Hip Hop Afrika ." As a spoken word performance artist her debut musical release "A Spoken Word Experience," is available on all music streaming platforms, and she has plans to tour an accompanying multimedia show, Urban Djali. She has been featured on MTV's "Starting Over", BET's "Fly Poet", and, coincidentally, the first season of "So You Think You Can Dance?", hence a personal affinity for National Dance Day.

A wife and mother of three children, and a caregiver for her mother who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis over 40 years ago, Makeda Kumasi is literally dancing through a litany of commitments that would overwhelm most. On National Dance Day and beyond, dance with her across social media on Instagram at @makedakumasi, on Facebook at @MakedaKumasi and online at makedakumasi.net .

Contact:

Makeda Smith

Jazzmyne Public Relations

[email protected]

323-380-8819

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pan-african-dance-ambassador-makeda-kumasi-celebrates-national-dance-day-as-california-arts-council-grant-recipient-301928202.html

SOURCE WE 3 PRODUCTIONS
BIPOC climate justice leaders kick of NY Climate Week discussing national climate goals and climate justice issues

HARLEM, N.Y. , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of New York Climate Week, environmental leader and founding member of the EPA's Office of Environmental Justice. Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali , and executive director of WE ACT for Environmental Justice and White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council member, Peggy Shepard , will join leading experts to discuss national climate goals at the 3rd Annual BIPOC Climate Justice Dialogue. A collaboration of the HBCU Green Fund, Donors of Color, Columbia World Projects, and Columbia University Climate School, discussions will focus on lessons learned, gaps, and opportunities to maximize Justice40 for implementing and operationalizing a just transition.

The Dialogue will bring Black, Indigenous, and People of Color climate justice experts, U.S. government officials, and philanthropy representatives together to discuss national climate justice strategies and the role of people, policy, pedagogy, and philanthropies in delivering them. The BIPOC Climate Justice Dialogue will be held Friday, Sept. 15 th, at The Forum in Columbia University from 1 - 5 PM . Followed by a reception from 5 - 6 PM .

WHERE: Columbia University Auditorium 601 W 125th St , New York, NY 10027 WHEN: DATE: Friday September 15, 2023 TIME: 1 pm . - 5 p.m. (Reception 5  6 PM ) WHO: Opening address: Mustafa Santiago Ali , executive vice president, National Wildlife Federation .

, executive vice president, . People Panel : Peggy Shepard , WE Act; Makara Rumley , Groundswell; Maria Lopez-Nunez , Ironbound Community Corporation .

WE Act; Groundswell; . Policy Panel : EPA: Matthew Tejada * , USDA : Gbenga Ajilore *

EPA: , : Pedagogy Panel : Richard Gragg , Florida A&M University ; Diana Hernandez , Columbia University ; Dr. Isatis Cintron-Rodriguez , Columbia University

, ; , ; , Philanthropies Panel : Abdul Dosunmu , Donors of Color

, Donors of Color Justice40 Report: Felicia Davis , HBCU Green Fund , MaKara Rumley Esq ., Hummingbird Firm, Maria Lopez-Nunez , Ironbound Community Corporation , Nick Tilsen , President & CEO, NDN Collective

*Invited CONTACT: The event is free and open to the public. Media is invited to attend. For more information email [email protected], text: 818.613.9521.

ABOUT HBCU GREEN FUND

The HBCU Green Fund is a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization working with historically black colleges and universities in the U.S. and abroad to advance sustainability and environmental justice, promote student engagement in green initiatives, and train the next generation of global green leaders. The organization's Atlanta University Center Clean Energy Fellows Program introduces students to career opportunities in the clean energy sector and connects students with Black entrepreneurs that provide training in renewable energy technologies.

Their Eco Spring Break Service-Learning trip enables HBCU students, faculty and alumni to spend a week in an African village where they can help, and learn from, the vulnerable communities that contribute the least, but are most impacted by the effects of climate change. The West Atlanta Project, funded by a Bezos Earth Fund grant as part of the Greening American Cities Initiative, will enhance access to healthy food, outdoor activities, green transportation options, and education, with a Truly Living Well Farm serving as the project anchor.

Contact Edrea Davis , Jazzmyne PR

Phone/Text: 818.613.9521

Email: edmedia@dogonvillage.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/peggy-shepard-and-mustafa-santiago-ali-among-experts-at-3rd-annual-bipoc-climate-justice-dialogue-kicking-off-climate-week-in-nyc-301928519.html

SOURCE HBCU Green Fund
VANCOUVER, BC , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Prospect Ridge Resources Corp. (the "Company" or "Prospect Ridge") (CSE: PRR) (OTC: PRRSF) (FRA: OED) is pleased to announce results of surface geological works at the Dorreen Mine and surrounding area, situated within the Company's fully owned flagship Knauss Creek property, located 35km northeast of Terrace, BC . Those results are part of an ongoing aggressive surface exploration campaign designed to follow up on historic showings and other targets across the entire property.

Key Highlights:

Sampling was completed at the Dorreen Mine that was developed in 1924, 1926 and in 1952. Production information in historical reports is inconsistent. It is reasonable to estimate that about 700 tons at 16.8 g/t Au, 58 g/t Ag, 0.22% of Cu, 2.1% of Pb and 1.4% of Zn were mined from a quartz vein (not 43-101 compliant).

Outcrop sampling of the quartz vein that remains accessible in the underground adits from the Doreen mine returned:

21.70 g/t Au (W384759),

(W384759), 22.80 g/t Au (W384760),

(W384760), 12.00 g/t Au (W384814), and

(W384814), and 11.55 g/t Au (W386163).

In addition, surface prospecting and mapping has discovered a number of new veins in outcrops. These veins are interpreted to form part of a larger network of veins covering a larger area than previously interpreted.

An outcrop sample collected 50m southwest, at 75m higher elevation from the mine, returned:

7.12 g/t Au (W384720);

From two other adits located 100m southwest, at 100m higher elevation from the mine, outcrop samples collected gave:

36.20 g/t Au (W386156),

(W386156), 19.35 g/t Au (W384675).

Images from samples in link (here).

Prospect Ridge CEO Michael Iverson commented, "The consistent high-grade results achieved both within and above the mine reinforce our optimism about the mineral nature of this area, suggesting a mineralized system comprised of multiple veins. The veins identified not only host gold but also contain silver, copper, lead and zinc. These recent findings are in line with documented historical grades associated with the Dorreen mine.

We are very pleased with the exploration work in this area and these high-grade results will require future follow-up. Additionally, similar work is being completed at other showings across the property and we expect to release those results in the near future."

Positioned west of the Knauss creek and elevated by about 100m on the mountain's flank, the Dorreen mine is a network of four interconnected adits. See location of the Dorreen Mine Target , within the Knauss Creek property in Figure 1.

All accessible points were sampled, yielding eleven (11) samples showcasing gold, silver and base metals. The location of collected samples is illustrated in Figure 2, while the samples details are listed in Table 1.

Sample Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (%) Pb (%) Zn (%) AuEq (g/t) W384759 21.700 75.600 0.367 2.200 1.265 24.401 W384760 22.800 23.400 0.100 0.922 0.276 23.657 W384814 12.000 111.000 0.765 3.730 1.290 16.239 W386157 6.120 56.100 0.185 3.030 0.738 8.415 W386158 1.680 63.000 0.297 2.070 1.195 4.057 W386159 1.210 56.100 0.668 1.170 1.260 3.735 W386161 7.260 5.500 0.049 0.158 0.198 7.529 W386162 0.478 12.700 0.174 0.434 0.098 1.068 W386163 11.550 56.400 0.433 2.550 0.194 13.816 W386164 0.193 2.100 0.012 0.078 0.018 0.270 W386165 1.060 3.700 0.024 0.148 0.043 1.208

Table 1: Results from the Dorreen Mine sampling

While scouting the area, an outcrop with a quartz vein, containing pyrite, chalcopyrite, galena and sphalerite, was sampled (W384720) and gave 7.12 g/t Au, 108 g/t Ag, 0.53% Cu, 4.74% Pb and 1.45% Zn. A gold equivalent of 11.41 g/t was calculated. This outcrop is located some 50m southwest of the extremity of the mine and at 75m higher elevation.

Further exploration, 100m southwest and 100m in elevation from the mine, led to the discovery of two more adits, the results of which are listed in Table 2.

Sample Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (%) Pb (%) Zn (%) AuEq (g/t) W384675 19.350 141.000 0.372 5.620 0.619 23.801 W384719 0.385 16.600 0.135 0.293 0.335 1.010 W386156 36.200 76.200 0.691 2.170 1.080 39.282

Table 2: Results from higher adits

Gold equivalents were calculated with a gold price of $1,750 /oz, silver at $21 /oz, copper at $3.60 /lbs, lead at $0.90 /lbs and zinc at $1.00 /lbs.

Cautionary statements

Outcrop samples are selective by nature and grades may not be representative of mineralized zones. True thickness or mineralization style and geological models cannot be determined with the information currently available.

Quality control

Rock samples were assayed for gold by standard 50 g fire-assaying with atomic absorption finish (Au-AA24) or gravimetric finish (Au-GRA22) or 1000g metallic screening (Au_SCR24) at ALS Canada in Terrace, British Columbia . The samples were also assayed for 35 metals from an aqua regia digestion with ICP-AES finish (ME-ICP41). For samples with overlimit results in silver, copper, lead and zinc aqua regia with ICP finish was used (OG46 ore grade). A quality assurance/quality control program has been implemented and consists of inserting standards on a regular basis in the samples stream.

Qualified Person

All scientific or technical information included in this news release has been reviewed, verified and approved by Yan Ducharme , P.Geo ., President of the Company and a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. This news release was written by Yan Ducharme .

About the Knauss Creek property

The fully owned Knauss Creek is about 35 kilometers northeast of the town of Terrace in the Province of British Columbia, Canada . It is easily accessible by highway 16 and a network of logging roads. It covers about 32 square kilometers and is contiguous to our optioned Holy Grail property.

Several gold, silver, copper, lead and zinc occurrences were found in the past. The most notable is the Dorreen mine where four adits were developed and, according to historical documents, around 700 tons of ore were mined out at an average grade of at 16.8 g/t Au, 58 g/t Ag, 0.22% Cu, 2.1% Pb and 1.4% Zn from a quartz vein (not 43-101 compliant).

The southern tip of the Golden Triangle arrives just northwest of PRR properties. The Bowser Lake and the Hazelton Groups hosting most of the deposits and mines of this area are also underlying the Knauss Creek and Holy Grail.

About Prospect Ridge Resources Corp.

Prospect Ridge Resources Corp. is a British Columbia based exploration and development company focused on gold exploration. Prospect Ridge's management and technical team cumulate over 100 years of mineral exploration experience and believes the Knauss Creek and the Holy Grail properties to have the potential to extend the boundaries of the Golden Triangle to cover this vast under-explored region.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions with respect to, among other things, positive exploration results at the Knauss Creek and Holy Grail projects and the Company's use of proceeds from the Private Placement. These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, that future exploration results at the Knauss Creek and Holy Grail projects will not be as anticipated and that the Company will use the proceeds from the Private Placement as anticipated.

In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that future exploration results at the Knauss Creek and Holy Grail projects will be as anticipated and that the Company will use the proceeds from the Private Placement as anticipated.

Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/prospect-ridge-resources-announces-high-grade-sampling-results-from-dorreen-mine-and-exploration-at-knauss-creek-property-301927304.html

SOURCE Prospect Ridge Resources Corp.
WASHINGTON , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Wells Fargo Foundation has awarded $1.4 million in grants to Rebuilding Together, the leading national nonprofit organization repairing the homes of people in need and revitalizing communities nationwide. Through the 2023 Wells Fargo Builds program, this effort will support essential home repairs and safety modifications for up to 90 homes in 49 communities across the U.S. for veterans, older adults and other neighbors in need.

"Today, one in six Americans lives in an economically-distressed zip code. At Rebuilding Together, our work goes beyond the completion of home repairs  we are dedicated to transforming the lives of homeowners and their families," said Caroline Blakey , President and CEO of Rebuilding Together. "The impact is profound and enduring, touching every aspect of their daily lives. By providing safe and accessible homes, we empower individuals, restore hope and foster a sense of belonging within their communities."

The nationwide effort kicked off in Charlotte, North Carolina when approximately 80 volunteers from Wells Fargo, Rebuilding Together and the community came out to repair four homes in the beloved Hidden Valley community. Rebuilding Together of Greater Charlotte received a $50,000 grant to provide transformative repairs such as installing handrails and grab bars, full roof replacements, remodeling floors and more to ensure safe, secure and accessible homes.

"Homeownership provides family stability and an opportunity to build generational wealth, yet far too many people are living in homes that are in disrepair or are not equipped to meet their changing mobility needs around the home," said Stacy Spann , head of Housing Access and Affordability Philanthropy at Wells Fargo. "Through our longstanding collaboration with Rebuilding Together, we're helping to restore and renovate distressed properties so families, veterans and older adults can remain in their homes and communities they love."

Since 2010, Wells Fargo has donated more than $18 million to Rebuilding Together and its affiliates to support rebuilding efforts across the country, including providing essential home repairs, revitalizing communities, and helping veterans, older adults, people with disabilities, families with children and victims of disaster remain in their homes.

Photos and B-roll from the September 13 Charlotte kick-off event can be found here .

Rebuilding Together

Rebuilding Together is the leading national nonprofit organization repairing the homes of people in need and revitalizing our communities. Through its national network of affiliates, Rebuilding Together works proactively and collaboratively with community leaders, long-term residents, funders and volunteers to foster dialogue and create safe, healthy communities across the country. Learn more and get involved at rebuildingtogether.org .

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rebuilding-together-announces-1-4-million-grant-from-wells-fargo-to-repair-homes-in-distressed-neighborhoods-301928233.html

SOURCE Rebuilding Together
The festival will transport visitors to Iceland through a dozen free events inspired by, and in celebration of, the best of Icelandic culture.

SEATTLE , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Taste of Iceland 2023 , organized by Inspired by Iceland , arrives in Seattle, Wash. , Thursday, October 5 to Saturday, October 7 . Iceland's capital city, Reykjavik , is a Sister City to Seattle . The three-day cultural festival celebrates the land of fire and ice with more than a dozen events across the city showcasing the best of Icelandic culture, including food and beverage, music, literature, film, art, wellness, and more.

Taste of Iceland celebrates and shares the traditions and culture of Iceland with the people of North America . In partnership with local businesses and Taste of Iceland's official partners, featured events will be hosted at KEXP , The Carlile Room , Life on Mars , Hometeam , Majestic Bay Theatres , AETHER , and the National Nordic Museum .

Most events are free and open to the public, event tickets are required, and guests are encouraged to arrive promptly to guarantee entry. Tickets are available on the Taste of Iceland Website . Reservations are required for the prix-fixe Icelandic dinner through the Taste of Iceland Website .

FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

Daily October 5-7

Icelandic Menu at The Carlile Room : October 5-7 , starting at 4:30 PM , Michael Webster , Chef at The Carlile Room , in collaboration with Blue Lagoon Iceland Head Chef Arnar Pall Sigrunarson, will prepare a pop-up menu inspired by Icelandic flavors and ingredients, including seafood, lamb, and skyr. Reservations are available through the Taste of Iceland website.

, starting at , , Chef at , in collaboration with Head Chef Arnar Pall Sigrunarson, will prepare a pop-up menu inspired by Icelandic flavors and ingredients, including seafood, lamb, and skyr. Reservations are available through the H/HI: Designing Friendship: Hae/Hi presents "Saman/Together," a design exhibition featuring objects and experiences that encourage people to interact, work, play, or relax together. With the shared objective of creating dialogues between their respective creative communities, "Saman/Together" features 18 interdisciplinary design studios from Reykjavik and Seattle . Each project is a collaboration between Iceland and Seattle -based studios, making both the process and results an expression of what together means. Open October 5 from 5-7 PM and October 6-7 from 12-5 PM at Hometeam . Click here for more information.

Hae/Hi presents "Saman/Together," a design exhibition featuring objects and experiences that encourage people to interact, work, play, or relax together. With the shared objective of creating dialogues between their respective creative communities, "Saman/Together" features 18 interdisciplinary design studios from Reykjavik and . Each project is a collaboration between and -based studios, making both the process and results an expression of what together means. Open from and from at . for more information. Wheel of Prizes Presented by Icelandair: October 5-7 at various events during the Taste of Iceland festival in Seattle , select participants will have the opportunity to win various prizes, including a trip for two to Iceland! Click here for more information. October 5 , 6:50 PM at KEXP , before Reykjavik Calling: Iceland Airwaves Off Venue concert October 6 , 3:50 PM at Life on Mars , before Icelandic Cocktail Class with Reyka Vodka October 7 , 12:50 PM , at National Nordic Museum , before 66North Fireside Chat

October 5-7 at various events during the festival in , select participants will have the opportunity to win various prizes, including a trip for two to Iceland! for more information.

Icelandair is also offering special sales on roundtrip flights to Iceland from Seattle . Flights booked here for travel dates between October 22, 2023  February 29, 2024 will start at $499 . Learn more here .

Thursday, October 5

Reykjavik Calling: Iceland Airwaves Off-Venue: The City of Reykjavik, in collaboration with Iceland Airwaves and KEXP, will host a free concert featuring Icelandic artists Daniel Hjalmtysson and GROA. Daniel Hjalmtysson released his debut single, "Birds" (KEXP SOTD), in early 2020, introducing his dark, neo-goth, and atmospheric approach to alternative rock music. In 2022, he released his full-length album, "Labyrinthia," followed by two European tours ( NL , BE, RO). Bursting into the global punk scene in 2018, GROA has thrilled audiences worldwide by embracing unruly freedom. The trio comprises sisters Hrabba (drums and vocals) and Karo (lead vocals, guitar, and synth) and their childhood friend Fria (bass and vocals). KEXP DJ Kevin Cole will co-host the evening with DJ Hermigervill, a longtime heavyweight of the Icelandic music scene. 7 PM at KEXP . Click here for more information.

Friday, October 6

Icelandic Cocktail Class with Reyka Vodka: Join a free Icelandic cocktail class where Reyka Vodka's brand ambassador and mixologist, Jeffrey Naples , will shake up some tasty Iceland -inspired cocktails and teach attendees how to make these drinks at home. DJ Hermigervill will welcome guests with his signature style, synth music, and vegan tape loops. 4 PM at Life on Mars . Click here for more information.

Join a free Icelandic cocktail class where Reyka Vodka's brand ambassador and mixologist, , will shake up some tasty -inspired cocktails and teach attendees how to make these drinks at home. DJ Hermigervill will welcome guests with his signature style, synth music, and vegan tape loops. at . for more information. Beautiful Beings Film Screening and Director Q&A: Enjoy a free screening of Beautiful Beings, Iceland's official submission to the 2023 Academy Awards for Best International Feature Film, followed by a Q&A with director Gumundur Arnar Gumundsson . 7 PM at Majestic Bay Theatres . Click here for more information.

Saturday, October 7

Secrets of the Sprakkar with Eliza Reid , First Lady of Iceland , with Margaret Willson : Join Eliza Reid , the First Lady of Iceland and co-founder of the Iceland Writers Retreat, as she discusses her critically acclaimed book, Secrets of the Sprakkar: Iceland's Extraordinary Women and How They Are Changing the World, in-conversation with Margaret Willson , author of Woman, Captain, Rebel: The Extraordinary True Story of a Daring Icelandic Sea Captain . Both books will be available for purchase. 10:30 AM at the National Nordic Museum . Click here for more information.

: Join , the First Lady of and co-founder of the Iceland Writers Retreat, as she discusses her critically acclaimed book, in-conversation with , author of . Both books will be available for purchase. at the . for more information. Elemental Sound Bath with Blue Lagoon Iceland and Icelandic Provisions Skyr Bar: Join Icelandic energy healer Josa Goodlife for an hour of inner peace and healing meditation. Sound Bath attendees will receive a complimentary Blue Lagoon Iceland yoga mat, an Icelandic Provisions beanie, an Icelandair blanket, Icelandic Glacial water, and a Blue Lagoon Iceland Skincare gift. After the Sound Bath, guests are invited to an Icelandic Provisions Skyr Bar. 11 AM at AETHER . Click here for more information.

Join Icelandic energy healer Josa Goodlife for an hour of inner peace and healing meditation. Sound Bath attendees will receive a complimentary Blue Lagoon Iceland yoga mat, an Icelandic Provisions beanie, an Icelandair blanket, Icelandic Glacial water, and a Blue Lagoon Iceland Skincare gift. After the Sound Bath, guests are invited to an Icelandic Provisions Skyr Bar. 11 AM at . for more information. 66North Fireside Chat: Join renowned adventure photographer and 66North Brand Ambassador Chris Burkard on a journey through Iceland as he shares his experiences and stunning images. The National Nordic Museum will host the photo exhibition titled "50 times and counting, because once wasn't enough!" Burkard's photos capture the essence of Iceland and the stories of his incredible travels throughout the country. Burkard is renowned for capturing stunning landscapes and moments of bliss, adventure-seeking lifestyle, movement, and intuitive light-working capabilities. The exhibition will showcase a selection of his finest work captured in Iceland . 3 PM at the National Nordic Museum . Click here for more information.

Taste of Iceland is an annual festival that celebrates Iceland's vibrant culture. The festival is organized by Inspired by Iceland , which promotes Iceland and Icelandic products. It is presented in partnership and with support from Icelandair , Visit Reykjavik , Icelandic Seafood , Business Iceland , Reyka Vodka , Blue Lagoon Iceland , 66North , Icelandic Provisions , Icelandic Lamb , Icelandic Glacial, Landsvirkjun , and Isavia Keflavik International Airport . Taste of Iceland's 2023 North America events have previously been held in Washington D.C. , New York, NY , and Chicago, IL.

For more information about Inspired by Iceland and Taste of Iceland , visit www.inspiredbyiceland.com .

To learn more about Business Iceland, visit www.businessiceland.is .

For media inquiries or to attend Taste of Iceland events, contact [email protected] .

CONTACT: Robin Crawford

703.966.7616 | [email protected]

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taste-of-iceland-festival-arrives-in-seattle-october-5-to-7-301928341.html
ATLANTA , Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PROPEL Center today announced that the U.S. Department of Education has named its President, Dr. Lisa N. Herring, as Strategic Advisor to the Secretary. Herring, who officially begins her tenure with PROPEL on Monday, September 18 th, will help shape the USDOE's strategy to engage state and local officials.

"I am delighted to have Dr. Lisa Herring join us at the Department of Education, a leader whose decades of experience as a teacher and administrator will be a tremendous asset to the Biden-Harris team. As strategic advisor, Dr. Herring will draw upon a professional career that has spanned both rural and urban communities, and teaching in both public and private schools to deepen our relationships and collaboration with state and local education leaders. Dr. Herring shares our commitment to accelerating academic recovery in our schools and empowering educators to help students of all backgrounds to find their purpose and fulfill their potential. I look forward to working with her to raise the bar in education for all students," said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona .

As the incoming president of the PROPEL Center, Dr. Herring is singularly enthused by the distinctive appointment, and the many potential ways in which the strategic role with the USDOE aligns with and complements her important work with PROPEL on behalf of America's Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and their students. "I am honored to serve in this capacity to help impact and influence education across both the K-12 and Postsecondary spectrum communities," Herring states. "I am incredibly eager to lead and work together to forge innovative, creative and student focused opportunities for scholars across our country through this collective work."

The PROPEL Center is a first-of-its kind innovation and learning hub for the HBCU community, supported by founding partners Apple and Southern Company. PROPEL will serve as a catalytic epicenter of instruction, providing students with the knowledge, skills, tools and resources necessary to transform the nation's talent pipeline and workforce. Propel also recently launched PROPEL Learn, a student-focused app designed to revolutionize the way HBCU students prepare for future job success.

Dr. Herring most recently served as superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools, and the Birmingham City Schools in Alabama ; chief academic officer for Jefferson County Public Schools in Louisville, Kentucky ; and deputy superintendent of academics for the Charleston County School District in South Carolina . She additionally served in leadership positions in DeKalb County Schools (GA), Macon, GA and private schools in Pittsburgh, PA. In several of her previous roles, Dr. Herring established national models geared at creating long-term student achievement and expanded career pathways through noted corporate and community partnerships.

Throughout her 20-plus years in K-12 education, Dr. Herring has embraced the ideas of service and community through her many activities aimed at inspiring young scholars, empowering educational leaders and improving outcomes for students nationwide. Dr. Herring received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Spelman College, master and specialist degrees from the University of South Carolina, leadership certification from the University of Georgia and her doctorate from Georgia Southern University. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

About PROPEL

Supported by founding partners Apple and Southern Company, PROPEL is a firstofitskind innovation and learning hub for the entire HBCU community that will serve as a catalytic epicenter of instruction, providing students with the knowledge, skills, tools and resources necessary to transform the nation's talent pipeline and workforce. Last month, PROPEL launched PROPEL Learn, a student-focused app designed to revolutionize the way HBCU students prepare for future job success. PROPEL Learn provides culturally-responsive content, curriculum and tech-focused micro-credentials that are co-developed by industry experts, distinguished HBCU faculty, and notable workforce collaborators.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/us-dept-of-education-names-propel-president-dr-lisa-n-herring-strategic-advisor-to-the-secretary-301928505.html

SOURCE PropelCenter.org
By Svea Herbst-Bayliss

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Activist investor Politan Capital Management said on Thursday that it has economic exposure to 4.5 million shares or 7.5% of biotechnology company Azenta Inc, according to a regulatory filing.

Politan, run by veteran fund manager Quentin Koffey, has successfully pushed for changes at managed care company Centene and medical devices maker Masimo.

It began building its position in Azenta during the second quarter and has significantly increased its stake from the 2 million shares it owned on June 30, regulatory filings show.

Politan said it now owned 4.13 million common shares or 6.87% of the company. It also had economic exposure to 385,196 notional shares of common stock, bringing the total aggregate economic exposure to 4.5 million shares of common stock, representing about 7.51% of the outstanding shares of the company.

Politan said it believed Azenta's stock, which closed at $50.77 on Thursday, was undervalued and that it would engage with the company about its business, operations and financial condition. Since January the stock price has dropped 14%.

Investment firms are required to make a 13D filing after crossing the 5% ownership threshold and often these filings signal that an investor may have plans to push the company to make changes.

A representative for Azenta, which is based in Burlington, Massachusetts, was not immediately available for comment.

Koffey previously invested in Centene where the company settled to add five new directors and the CEO agreed to retire. At Masimo, where Koffey won a proxy contest earlier this year, he secured two board seats, including one for himself.

(Reporting by Svea Herbst-Bayliss; Editing by Stephen Coates)
By Daina Beth Solomon

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Amazon on Thursday inaugurated its largest last-mile delivery center in Latin America, a warehouse in Mexico's capital, as it seeks to offer faster deliveries in one of the region's most populous cities.

The e-commerce giant launched in Mexico in 2015 and has since invested 52 billion pesos ($3 billion) in an effort to attract more shoppers in Latin America's second-biggest economy and get an edge on competitors such as Argentina-based Mercado Libre and retail giant Walmart.

The new Mexico City site, measuring 30,000 square meters (more than 322,000 square feet), is the largest Latin America "delivery station" for Amazon, referring to warehouses that specialize in last-mile deliveries to consumers.

Amazon also operates larger warehouses known as "fulfillment centers," which can be over 92,900 sq meters (a million square feet).

Altogether Amazon operates about 40 warehouses throughout Mexico, employing more than 8,000 people directly and another 32,000 indirectly.

The expansion in Mexico City represents another piece of Amazon's strategy to operate distribution centers close to customers, said Diana Frances, Amazon's Mexico logistics head, in an event at the warehouse, where a large Mexican flag hung above dozens of rows of wire racks and a long conveyer belt.

Some 22 million people live in and around Mexico City, one of the biggest urban centers in Latin America.

The company did not respond to questions about the investment represented by the new facility, or its workforce size.

U.S. Ambassador Ken Salazar, speaking at the event, commended Amazon for creating jobs, including in Mexico's poorer southern regions where President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has tried to ramp up development.

"There's no corner forgotten for Amazon ... It's wherever you look in Mexico," he said.

($1 = 17.0980 Mexican pesos)

(Reporting by Daina Beth Solomon; Editing by Sandra Maler)
FILE PHOTO: FILE PHOTO: Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles speaks to the media at the 19th Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore June 12, 2022. REUTERS/Caroline Chia/File Photo/File Photo

By Kirsty Needham

SYDNEY (Reuters) -Australia will toughen laws stopping former defence staff from training "certain foreign militaries", introducing a penalty of 20 years prison and widening the ban to stop any Australians offering military training to countries seen as a national security risk.

A series of cases where former military pilots living in Australia had worked for a South African flight school training Chinese pilots, which the United States alleges are Chinese military pilots, has prompted the crackdown.

Australia's "Five Eyes" intelligence partners of Britain, United States, New Zealand and Canada will be exempt from the new law, officials said.

Exemptions will also be provided if the defence minister authorises the training, or it relates to humanitarian relief or United Nations duties.

Penalties of up to 20 years prison will apply for providing military training or tactics to a foreign military or government body, including hybrid civilian and military organisations, or state-owned companies, without authorisation from the defence minister.

Defence Minister Richard Marles introduced the amendment to Australia's parliament on Thursday, saying the bill was partly modelled on U.S. laws, and will strengthen criminal laws in Australia that already ban the provision of military training to a foreign government by former Australian defence staff.

The new law goes further, stopping any Australian citizen or permanent resident from providing such training without the minister's authorisation.

The intention was to "prevent individuals with knowledge of sensitive defence information from training or working for certain foreign militaries or governments where that activity would put Australia's national security at risk", he said.

A former U.S. Marines Corp pilot who had recenty returned from working in China was arrested in Australia last year and faces extradition to the United States on charges of training Chinese military pilots at a South African flying school. The pilot, Daniel Duggan, an Australian citizen, remains in custody and denies any wrongdoing.

The Test Flying Academy of South Africa was placed on a U.S. trade blacklist on national security grounds in June for "providing training to Chinese military pilots using Western and NATO sources".

The flight training division of AVIC, a Chinese state-owned aviation and defence company that was in partnership with TFASA, is also on the blacklist.

The Australian home of TFASA chief operating officer Keith Hartley was raided by Australian Federal Police in November. A court was told Hartley, a former British military pilot, was suspected of organising the training of Chinese military pilots delivered by the flight school. Hartley has not been charged, and denies any wrongdoing.

Under the new law, working for companies where a foreign government holds 50% of shares or the directors are expected to act in accordance with the wishes of the foreign government is also banned.

(Reporting by Kirsty Needham; Editing by Lincoln Feast & Simon Cameron-Moore)
Customers look at speakers at a Casas Bahia store in Sao Paulo February 7, 2013. REUTERS/Nacho Doce/File photo

SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Brazilian retailer Casas Bahia raised 622 million reais ($126.53 million) in a share offering, the company said on Thursday.

Casas Bahia, formerly known as Via, priced its offering at 0.80 reais per share, a discount of nearly 28% from its Wednesday closing price.

The figure is also way below the 981 million reais the company said it expected to raise when the offer was announced.

However, Casa Bahia also approved the issue of four stock warrants as a bonus for every five shares acquired in the offer, which could lift the amount raised to 1.12 billion reais ($227.84 million), if all warrants are issued and exercised.

Half of the amount already raised will be allocated to the company's share capital account, while the remainder will be used as a capital reserve, it said.

The newly issued shares will start trading on the Brazilian stock exchange on Sept. 18.

($1 = 4.9158 reais)

(Reporting by Peter Frontini and Carolina Pulice; Editing by Steven Grattan)
(Reuters) - The government of Democratic Republic of Congo will closely follow the case of detained journalist Stanis Bujakera, communications minister Patrick Muyaya said on Thursday in the government's first comments since his detention last week.

Bujakera, who works for international media outlets including Reuters, was detained at the airport in the capital Kinshasa on Sept. 8 on suspicion of spreading false information about the killing of a prominent opposition politician in an article published by French news magazine Jeune Afrique, the magazine said.

He is accused of "spreading false rumours" and the "dissemination of false information" about the case, the magazine said in online statements. But it said the article in question did not carry his name, and "he cannot be held responsible" for its content.

Local and international rights groups including Human Rights Watch have expressed concern about his detention, calling it an attack on press freedom.

Speaking to journalists in Kinshasa, Muyaya said "a journalist going to prison is not good news."

He declined to comment on the merits of the case, citing the independence of the judiciary from the government, but said "we will follow the case closely until its conclusion."

"We hold freedom of the press dear. It is a cardinal value of democracy, but it is also a freedom which does not give a blank check for disinformation," he said.

"We hope that the case which is following a normal course ... can be resolved quickly," he said.

(Reporting by Reuters newsroom; Writing by Alessandra Prentice; Editing by Daniel Wallis)
By Niket Nishant and Krystal Hu

(Reuters) - Databricks, a data analytics platform using artificial intelligence (AI), said on Thursday it secured more than $500 million in a funding round that valued the company at $43 billion, marking one of the biggest funding events for private tech companies this year amid AI-fueled optimism.

The new round, led by T. Rowe Price, could mark the last round of private funding as the data company gears up for the public market. Chipmaker Nvidia, another beneficiary of the AI boom, and credit card firm Capital One Financial, also participated in the latest funding round.

The company plans to use the funds to build out foundation models in partnership with Nvidia, which makes the core computing chips that run AI models, Ali Ghodsi, chief executive of Databricks, told Reuters in an interview.

"You want to have models that are really good at specific tasks. It matters to us to be able to do this for our enterprise clients," Ghodsi said.

Other marquee names in the venture capital industry like Andreessen Horowitz, Baillie Gifford, Morgan Stanley's Counterpoint Global, Fidelity Management & Research and Tiger Global also participated in the round.

AI, the latest buzzword in the technology space, has captivated the interest of investors from Silicon Valley to Wall Street.

Following the massive popularity of OpenAI's chatbot ChatGPT, many players in the industry including Anthropic, Hugging Face and Modular have raised funds in recent months.

The financing for Databricks comes as the company sharpened focus on developing a chatbot that can analyze business data like sales transactions or written reports.

In June, it rolled out an AI assistant called LakehouseIQ, which can interpret queries submitted in natural language instead of computer codes. Weeks later, it also closed the acquisition of MosaicML, a generative AI startup it bought in a $1.3 billion deal.

Databricks said it posted a 50% year-over-year jump in revenue in the second quarter ended July, and had more than 10,000 customers globally.

Its latest valuation is over 13% more than the $38 billion the San Francisco-based company was worth after its last fundraise in 2021. The company has raised $4 billion since inception.

(Reporting by Niket Nishant in Bengaluru and Krystal Hu in Hong Kong; Editing by Dhanya Ann Thoppil)
FILE PHOTO: Deutsche Bank logo is seen in this illustration taken March 12, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration

By Elizabeth Howcroft

LONDON (Reuters) - Deutsche Bank has partnered with Swiss crypto firm Taurus to provide custody services for institutional clients' cryptocurrencies and tokenised assets, Taurus said in a statement on Thursday.

The partnership means Deutsche Bank will, for the first time, be able to hold a limited number of cryptocurrencies for its clients, as well as tokenised versions of traditional financial assets, a Deutsche Bank spokesperson said.

Crypto trading is not in the bank's "immediate plans", the spokesperson said. Deutsche Bank said it aimed to offer crypto trading in a World Economic Forum paper back in 2020.

Crypto markets have struggled to recover from last year's series of collapses at top crypto firms, which left investors with large losses and prompted lawmakers around the world to call for more regulation. Still, various mainstream financial firms are talking about the possibility of blockchain - the technology behind cryptocurrencies - to be used in the trading and settlement of traditional financial assets.

Various banks, including Standard Chartered, BNY Mellon and Societe Generale, offer crypto custody services.

"As the digital asset space is expected to encompass trillions of dollars of assets, it's bound to be seen as one of the priorities for investors and corporations alike," said Paul Maley, Deutsche Bank's global head of securities services.

The crypto market is worth around $1.1 trillion, down from a peak just above $3 trillion in November 2021, according to CoinGecko data.

"Our focus is not just on cryptocurrencies, but supporting our clients in the overall digital assets ecosystem," Maley added.

U.S. regulators have warned banks to be on guard for liquidity risks from crypto-related clients.

Maley said Deutsche Bank is proceeding "cautiously and in line with the spirit and the letter of the regulations governing this asset class."

"Our product design, and the nature of custody for clients, will make sure that there isnt the risk of contaminating the banks other activities," he said.

(Reporting by Elizabeth Howcroft; Editing by Christina Fincher)
FILE PHOTO: Members of the National Army guard the bridge between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, after the shared border was closed when Haiti's President Jovenel Moise was shot dead by gunmen at his private home in Port-au-Prince, in Dajabon, Dominica

By Paul Mathiasen

SANTO DOMINGO/OUANAMINTHE, Haiti (Reuters) -Hundreds of Haitians returned from the Dominican Republic on Thursday after the Dominican president announced an imminent total border shutdown amid a conflict over the construction of a water channel from a shared river.

The border is set to close from Friday at 6 a.m. (1000 GMT) and will last "as long as necessary," Dominican authorities said, with backing from their military and police forces, though talks with the Haitian government are set to continue.

Over a thousand people streamed through the border into Haiti at Ouanaminthe, near the canal, as authorities briefly opened the gates on Thursday afternoon for people getting deported or families looking to return.

Harold Estimable, director of the national migration office in Ouanaminthe, said some 250 to 300 Haitians had been arriving daily from the Dominican Republic in "very bad shape."

United Nations experts warned earlier this week that Haitian women seeking pregnancy and postpartum medical care in the Dominican Republic were reportedly being arrested during check-ups and deported immediately without a chance to appeal.

The Caribbean country has tightened border security amid the worsening gang warfare in Haiti - where there are daily reports of kidnappings and sexual violence - deporting tens of thousands who left their country.

DRASTIC MEASURES

"We have been prepared for weeks, not only for this situation but also for a possible peace force in Haiti," said Dominican President Luis Abinader, adding if the Haitian government could not control the construction, Santo Domingo could.

The Dominican Republic, which threatened to shut the border last week, argues construction works off the River Massacre violate a 1929 treaty.

Abinader is set to raise the issue on a visit to the United Nations next week.

"Unfortunately, they left us no alternative but to take drastic measures," Abinader said, adding the Dominican Republic is planning the construction of two dams that "without the treaty could significantly affect" Haiti.

The government said the border closure will include all land, sea and air routes, and that it deployed a further 20 armored vehicles to a military camp on the border.

Later on Thursday, Haiti's government said that it has the sovereign right to exploit its natural resources, as does the Dominican Republic, in line with the 1929 treaty. It also said it would take all measures to irrigate the Maribahoux plain.

The government said it "will take all necessary measures to protect the interests of the Haitian people."

Local airline Sunrise Airways said it was adding a flight between both countries on Thursday afternoon ahead of the closure.

The U.S. Embassy, which has called on its citizens to leave Haiti, said on its website that those planning to leave for the Dominican Republic would need to make other arrangements.

(Reporting by Paul Mathiasen in Santo Domingo, Octavio Jones in Ouanaminthe, Harold Isaac in Port-au-Prince and Aida Peleaz-Fernandez in Mexico City; Writing by Sarah Morland; Editing by Leslie Adler, Stephen Coates and Diane Craft)
Employees walk at the headquarters of the Central Bank of Iraq in Baghdad, Iraq August 15, 2023. REUTERS/Ahmed Saad/File photo

By Timour Azhari

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraq's central bank must address continued risks of the misuse of dollars at Iraqi commercial banks to avoid new punitive measures targeting the country's financial sector, a top U.S. Treasury official said, citing fraud, money laundering and Iran sanctions evasion.

In July, the United States barred 14 Iraqi banks from conducting dollar transactions as part of a wider crackdown on the illicit use of dollars.

Despite the crackdown, the senior U.S. Treasury official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said there were still other Iraqi banks operating with risks "that must be remediated".

With more than $100 billion in reserves held in the U.S., Iraq is heavily reliant on Washington's goodwill to ensure oil revenues and finances do not face U.S. censure.

The official said the U.S. action in July had been based on clear indications of illegal financial activity and the alleged crimes the Treasury was looking into included money laundering, bribery, extortion, embezzlement and fraud.

Iraq's central bank governor has said Iraq is committed to implementing tighter financial regulations and combating the smuggling of dollars. The central bank did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Thursday.

Farhad Alaadin, the Iraqi prime minister's foreign affairs adviser, said the government had taken "hard measures to make sure that Iraqi interests are protected while improving the banking sector and the transfer market."

"The Iraqi government is serious about continuing on the path of reform and fighting corruption," Alaadin said.

Iraq has more than 70 private banks, a relatively new feature in a sector that was almost entirely controlled by the state until Saddam Hussein was toppled in the U.S. invasion of 2003.

Of those, just under a third are now on U.S blacklists.

"I chose to focus on the banks that still have access where I see continued risk," the official told Reuters in Baghdad.

"It would be great if the central bank took the opportunity to address it directly, which would perhaps obviate the need (for the U.S.) to take any further actions."

The Iraqi government came to power with the support of powerful, Iranian-backed parties and so cannot afford to alienate Tehran, nor anger the parties and armed groups with deep interests in Iraq's highly informal economy.

Iran's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The 14 banks given dollar bans in July have urged the Iraqi government to remedy the measures against them and said they work in compliance with regulations.

The Treasury official said that Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani's government, which was appointed in October 2022, had been cooperative and there had been "progress", something that had "not been necessarily the case" in the last 10 to 15 years.

However, there were still "vested interests comfortable with the status quo that can create friction to driving change," the Treasury official said, without identifying who these were.

'MASSIVE THEFT'

The U.S. measures have centred on Iraq's so-called dollar auction, where the central bank requests dollars from the U.S. Federal Reserve before selling them to commercial banks, which in turn sell to businesses in the import-dependent economy.

Between $200 million to $250 million is auctioned daily.

Before the enhanced U.S. measures, large sums of money were illegitimately acquired by groups who would provide fake invoices. "Significant volumes" would then be smuggled to neighbouring countries, including Iran, the official said.

A feature of a highly informal economy, the auction system was also used by thousands of small businesses that needed dollars but were not formally registered with the state, and so provided false information, Iraqi officials have said.

The enhanced scrutiny not only targets Iran but is part of a broader push to "normalise" Iraq's financial system and combat a slew of financial crimes, the official said.

"I care about that (sanctions evasion), but we also have to care about massive theft and fraud and faked identity and ghost salaries," the official said.

When Iraq began implementing enhanced measures via a new online platform in January that includes details on end-beneficiaries, roughly 80% of transactions were rejected but now that number is around 15%, Iraq's central bank says.

Still, Iraqi officials say the measures have led to a dollar shortage, which has led the Iraqi dinar to change hands at more than 1,500 per dollar in the unofficial market in recent months, up to 15% weaker than the official rate of 1,320.

The U.S. Treasury official said that the initial high rejection rate was largely tied to a "steep learning curve" on how to fill out forms and issues such as software bugs, that were now being addressed.

(This story has been refiled to fix the spelling of 'path' in paragraph 8)

(Reporting by Timour Azhari; Editing by Alexander Smith)
By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -A group of senior U.S. House Republicans on Thursday urged the Biden administration to crack down on Huawei and China's top semiconductor firm Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp (SMIC) after reports suggested Huawei has developed an advanced smartphone.

The lawmakers - including the chairs of the House Foreign Affairs, Energy and Commerce, Armed Services, and select China committees - urged the Commerce Department to stop granting licenses to Chinese government-controlled companies such as SMIC, and said it called for additional U.S. pressure "and more effective export controls on our adversaries."

The letter led by Foreign Affairs Chair Michael McCaul called on the administration "to strategically bar the import of SMIC-produced semiconductors, particularly those that pose risks to national security, into the United States," and for the administration to "pursue criminal charges against executives from SMIC and Huawei."

Huawei and SMIC did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The Commerce Department, which did not immediately comment on the letter, said last week it is working to obtain more information "on the character and composition" of the chip that may violate trade restrictions.

"The restrictions in place since 2019 have knocked Huawei down and forced it to reinvent itself -- at a substantial cost to the (Chinese) government," the department said.

White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said last week the U.S. government is trying to get more information about the Huawei chip.

Earlier this month Representative Mike Gallagher, who heads the China committee, said the Commerce Department should end all technology exports to Huawei and SMIC.

Huawei recently started selling a phone called the Mate 60 Pro. The phone contains a chip that analysts believe was made with a technology breakthrough by SMIC.

Huawei was placed on a trade blacklist in May 2019 over national security concerns, forcing its U.S. suppliers and others to obtain a special license to ship goods to it. SMIC was added to the so-called entity list in December 2020 over fears it could divert advanced technology to military users.

Suppliers to Huawei and SMIC have received billions of dollars' worth of licenses to sell U.S. technology to the companies despite their being on the trade lists, Reuters has previously reported. About 90% of the licenses were for sales to SMIC.

The House letter asked Commerce to "revoke all existing licenses for SMIC and Huawei."

(Reporting by David Shepardson; editing by Jonathan Oatis and Chris Reese)
FILE PHOTO: A view shows the logo of Chinese automobile manufacturer Geely at a dealership in Moscow, Russia, March 23, 2023. REUTERS/Maxim Shemetov/File Photo

JAKARTA (Reuters) - Indonesia has asked Chinese carmaker Geely Automotive Holdings to help it build a homegrown electric car by 2025 or 2026, a senior minister said on Tuesday, adding that the automaker has agreed.

Geely did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

"I have offered Geely, do you want to make cars in Indonesia, but be an Indonesian brand and do the research in Indonesia? They said yes," Minister Luhut Pandjaitan, who oversees regulations on natural resources and investment, told a seminar.

The offer would be packaged with Indonesia supplying nickel ore to produce electric vehicle (EV) batteries, but the research must be led by Indonesia, he said.

Indonesia has been trying to court EV makers to invest in the country, offering access to its rich nickel reserves, a key component of EV batteries. But it has had mixed success so far.

On Monday, Vietnamese EV company VinFast said it plans to invest around $1.2 billion in Indonesia in the long term, including for a plant that is targeted to start production in 2026.

Last month, Southeast Asia's largest economy saw investment commitments in EV production by China's Hozon New Energy Automobile and Japan's Mitsubishi Motors.

But authorities' efforts to win investment from U.S Tesla and China's BYD Group, two of the world's biggest EV makers, have yet to materialise.

(Reporting by Fransiska Nangoy and Stefanno Sulaiman; Writing by Gayatri Suroyo; Editing by Kanupriya Kapoor)
Volunteers from the Beltrees Youth Movement sort clothes that are to be distributed to the displaced people, in the aftermath of the floods in Derna, Libya September 14, 2023. REUTERS/Esam Omran Al-Fetori

By Ahmed Elumami and Ayman al-Warfali

DERNA, Libya (Reuters) - Libyans from across the fragmented country have driven through old front lines regardless of bitter enmities to deliver aid to flood-stricken Derna this week, putting aside years of conflict between their divided leaders.

Inside Derna, where a torrent washed away whole districts on Sunday night after two dams collapsed under storm floods, volunteers from Misrata, Tripoli and Benghazi were distributing clothes and food packages on Wednesday and Thursday.

Thousands were killed in the disaster and many thousands more are missing, though estimates of the toll have varied widely, and large numbers of Derna residents have lost their homes and belongings.

"We said to ourselves there would surely be a shortage of working hands to load, unload, drive or do anything else," said Elias al-Khabouli, a volunteer from the western city of Zawiya and a member of the Biltrees activist group.

Biltrees hired buses and vans to bring more than 100 volunteers from western parts of Libya to the far eastern city of Derna early on Monday, embarking on a 15-hour drive even before the full scale of the disaster was clear.

Conflict since a 2011 NATO-backed uprising has ripped apart many communities in Libya, pitted cities against each other and divided the entire country after 2014 between rival governments in the east and west.

Despite a 2020 ceasefire that ended most major warfare, allowing roads and flights to reopen between the main opposing areas, territory remains controlled by rival armed factions and there is no unified authority governing the whole country.

The two rival administrations have - tentatively - coordinated on some issues. Ministers from the Tripoli-based government visited the eastern city of Benghazi on Thursday.

"There's a somewhat larger willingness to cooperate than I have ever seen in the last decade," said Tim Eaton of Chatham House.

Some aid has flowed from Libya's internationally recognised government in Tripoli, which is not recognised by eastern factions and is aligned with armed forces that have battled against the powerful eastern military leader Khalifa Haftar.

FAULTLINES REMAIN

However suspicions remain: there is no indication that the shared national grief over Derna will loosen the political gridlock that has gripped Libya for more than a year, making national elections impossible.

A humanitarian source involved in the relief effort said eastern authorities had barred foreign aid flowing to Derna through the internationally recognised Tripoli government, whose legitimacy the eastern administration rejects.

A source in the eastern administration denied this, saying it had not rejected aid being channelled via Tripoli.

Analysts caution that political leaders may be seeking to tap into a national mood of unity while positioning themselves to benefit from any longer-term development funds. Conflict in Libya has often focused on access to state finances.

"When you start to talk about the issues of reconstruction and financial support, this will aggravate all the faultlines in Libya," Eaton said.

However, the long line of trucks queuing to get into Derna on Thursday showed donations arriving from around the country in what the United Nations emergency agency OCHA called "a wave of nationwide support" that "has swept across Libya".

Relief operations in Derna have been directed by Haftar's LNA, the military coalition that controls eastern Libya and was for years in open conflict with western factions.

Haftar mounted a 14-month campaign to capture the capital Tripoli from 2019-20, an offensive that destroyed swathes of the city and was resisted by western armed factions.

Photographs on social media, which Reuters could not immediately identify, appeared to show vehicles from Tripoli's 444 Brigade, whose leader was part of the coalition battling Haftar, arriving with aid in eastern Libya late on Wednesday.

The internal coordination was matched by donations from abroad. Even foreign governments mistrustful of Haftar have put aside political misgivings or fears over Libya's rampant corruption, to directly engage in a region he controls.

Turkey, long the main supporter of the Tripoli government, rapidly sent an aid team to Derna through Benghazi, the LNA-controlled capital of eastern regions.

(Additional reporting by Emma Farge in Geneva, Angelo Amante in Rome and Tom Perry in Beirut; Writing by Angus McDowall; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)
FILE PHOTO: A view shows the damage in the village of Arghen, in the aftermath of a deadly earthquake, in Morocco September 14, 2023. REUTERS/Janis Laizans/File Photo

By Ahmed Eljechtimi and David Lawder

MARRAKECH/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Morocco insisted on Thursday that Marrakech will host International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank annual meetings in October despite the recent devastating earthquake, but the two institutions have not committed to the plan, three people familiar with their deliberations said.

The IMF and World Bank are still assessing whether the Oct. 9-15 meetings can be safely held in Marrakech, just 45 miles (72 kilometres) from the site of the 6.8-magnitude quake that killed more than 2,900 people last Friday.

The meetings would bring 10,000 to 15,000 people to the tourist hub, which suffered some damage to its ancient medina quarter and is the main conduit for relief efforts to areas worst-hit by the quake in the High Atlas Mountains.

Officials at the IMF and World Bank are assessing whether the meetings would inhibit recovery efforts, the sources said on condition of anonymity because the deliberations are private.

Other considerations are security and lodging safety and whether Marrakech's infrastructure, including water and power systems and hospitals can handle the influx of people without straining the country's resources.

Morocco's central bank governor, Abdellatif Jouahri, told a "Road to Marrakech" central banking conference on Thursday that the meetings would take place as planned, in one of the first official government comments on the matter. The conference was being held in preparation for the meetings, he said.

A spokesperson for Morocco's embassy in Washington also told Reuters in an email: "I am pleased to inform you that the government of Morocco will go ahead with the annual meeting as scheduled despite the earthquake."

PRESSING FOR AN ANSWER

The comments showed strong pressure from the North African country for the IMF and World Bank to forge ahead with meetings that would bring significant revenue to Morocco and shine a global spotlight on its resilience and strong economic policies.

The institutions have traditionally held their annual meetings every third year in a member country, and the Marrakech meetings have already been delayed two years in a row due to COVID-19.

Spokespeople for the World Bank and IMF declined to comment on the institutions' deliberations over the meetings, referring reporters to a Sept. 10 joint statement expressing solidarity with and financial support for Morocco and a "willingness to support Morocco in the best way possible."

An IMF spokesperson said however, that past annual meetings abroad, including in Bali in 2018, provided a boost to host country tourism and local business owners, with the tourism impact alone "estimated in the tens of millions of dollars."

The sources familiar with the deliberations said the site for the Marrakech meetings, a campus of temporary structures and large tents on the outskirts, was undamaged and functioning.

One of the sources said the Bank and Fund were considering how the structures could be repurposed later for relief efforts and how the meeting agenda could focus on aid.

(Reporting by Ahmed Eljechtimi in Marrakech and David Lawder in Washington; Editing by Kevin Liffey, David Holmes, Alexandra Hudson)
By Abigail Summerville

NEW YORK (Reuters) - National Carwash Solutions' private equity owner is exploring a sale of the U.S. carwash equipment provider that could value it at close to $3 billion, including debt, according to people familiar with the matter.

Berkshire Partners, which has owned National Carwash since 2020, has hired investment bank William Blair to run a sale process for the company, which is attracting the interest of other buyout firms, the sources said.

The company's earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization could reach $170 million in 2023, the sources added, requesting anonymity because the matter is confidential.

National Carwash did not respond to a request for comment, while William Blair and Berkshire Partners declined to comment.

Private equity firms have been major investors in car washing businesses in recent years. In July, Oaktree Capital Management acquired Magnolia Wash Holdings for an undisclosed amount. Last year, Warburg Pincus bought El Car Wash. In 2021, Mister Car Wash, a Leonard Green & Partners-backed company, and Driven Brands, backed by Roark Capital, went public.

Berkshire Partners, which oversees more than $20 billion in capital, acquired National Carwash in 2020 from AEA Investors for an undisclosed amount.

National Carwash brands include Ryko Solutions, Blue Coral, Armor All Professional and Rain-X. Under Berkshires ownership, the company acquired Zep Vehicle Care in 2021.

(Reporting by Abigail Summerville in New York; Editing by Stephen Coates)
FILE PHOTO: Containers are seen at a terminal in the port of Hamburg, Germany November 14, 2019. REUTERS/Fabian Bimmer/File Photo

BERLIN (Reuters) - The city of Hamburg's economy authority said there was no counter offer on the table from billionaire logistics investor Klaus-Michael Kuehne for a majority stake in the HHLA port operator, in an emailed statement to Reuters on Thursday.

On Wednesday, Kuehne, who owns a 30% stake in Hapag-Lloyd, said he was examining a public takeover bid of his own after Swiss-based MSC offered to buy almost half of the HHLA in a deal with the local Hamburg government.

(Reporting by Jan C Schwartz, Writing by Rachel More, Editing by Miranda Murray)
(Reuters) - Drug developer Generate:Biomedicines, which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to find new treatments, said on Thursday it has raised $273 million from investors including Nvidia's venture capital arm and Amgen.

The company said it would use the Series C funding to support its pipeline of drugs for various disease areas such as cancer, infectious diseases and immunological conditions.

Generate  founded by venture firm Flagship Pioneering, which has incubated biotech companies, most famously Moderna Inc  uses AI to replace trial-and-error drug discovery methods and create novel protein-based therapeutics.

Generate is testing a monoclonal antibody therapy for COVID-19, its first therapy to reach human testing.

"The company has made significant advancements over the last five years, and I am confident this funding will enable us to realize a future where drug development is no longer a game of chance," Flagship's CEO Noubar Afeyan said in a statement.

Generate said the latest funding round would help the company increase the precision, speed and probability of success of its drug development.

The Series C round attracted some new investors such as MAPS Capital and Pictet Alternative Advisors, besides existing investors including Flagship and Abu Dhabi Investment Authority.

Generate did not immediately respond to Reuters request for a comment on its valuation.

The AI-driven drug developer has raised about $700 million in equity financing since 2020.

(Reporting by Christy Santhosh in Bengaluru; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar)
By Alexander Marrow and Mark Trevelyan

LONDON (Reuters) -Russia said on Thursday it was expelling two U.S. diplomats whom it accused of working with a Russian national charged with collaborating with a foreign state.

The Foreign Ministry said in a statement it had summoned U.S. envoy Lynne Tracy and told her that embassy First Secretary Jeffrey Sillin and Second Secretary David Bernstein must leave Russia within seven days.

"The named people conducted illegal activity, maintaining contact with Russian citizen R. Shonov, accused of 'confidential cooperation' with a foreign state," the Russian statement said.

The U.S. State Department said the expulsion of the two diplomats was unprovoked and warned that Washington would respond appropriately.

"This unprovoked expulsion of our diplomatic personnel is wholly without merit, as is the case against a former Russian contractor of our embassy," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters.

"Yet again, Russia has chosen confrontation and escalation over constructive diplomatic engagement. It continues to harass employees of our embassy, just as it continues to intimidate its own citizens. We regret that Russia has taken this path and you can certainly expect that we will respond appropriately to their actions."

Robert Shonov was employed by the U.S. Consulate General in the eastern Russian city of Vladivostok for more than 25 years until Russia in 2021 ordered the dismissal of the U.S. mission's local staff.

Russia's FSB security service published a video in August showing a purported confession by Shonov in which he said Sillin and Bernstein had asked him to collect information about Russia's war effort in Ukraine, its annexation of "new territories", its military mobilisation and the 2024 presidential election.

In the video, Shonov said he was told to gather "negative" information on these topics, to look for signs of popular protest and to reflect these in his reports.

Washington accused Moscow of attempting to intimidate and harass U.S. employees after Russian state media reported the charges against Shonov and said the FSB planned to question embassy employees who had been in touch with him.

When he was arrested in May, the State Department said the case highlighted Russia's "blatant use of increasingly repressive laws" against its own citizens. It said the allegations against Shonov were "wholly without merit".

In its statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Shonov had been paid to complete tasks aimed at damaging Russia's national security.

"It was also emphasised (to Tracy) that illegal activities of the U.S. diplomatic mission, including interference in the internal affairs of the host country, are unacceptable and will be resolutely suppressed," it said.

"The Russian side expects Washington to draw the right conclusions and refrain from confrontational steps."

Relations between Moscow and Washington have plunged to their worst point for more than 60 years because of the war in Ukraine. The U.S. is providing advanced weaponry to Ukraine and has hit Russia with sanctions in response to its invasion in February 2022.

(Reporting by Alexander Marrow and Mark Trevelyan; Editing by Andrew Heavens and Marguerita Choy)
A satellite image shows a Tsel military base, as Russia's invasion of Ukraine continues, in Mogilev Region, Belarus, July 25, 2023, in this handout image obtained by Reuters on September 14, 2023. PLANET LABS PBC/Handout via REUTERS

(Reuters) - Satellite images of a military base southeast of the Belarus capital Minsk appear to show dismantling of tents in recent weeks, which may indicate the winding down of the base for Wagner, the Russian mercenary company behind an abortive mutiny.

On Aug. 23, Wagner's boss Yevgeny Prigozhin and his top lieutenants were killed when a private jet he used crashed in so-far unexplained circumstances, leaving the fate of his mercenaries in doubt.

Images of the Tsel military base in Mogilev region, taken on July 25, Aug. 25 and Sept. 9 and provided by Earth imaging company Planet Labs, appear to show the gradual dismantling of tents in the camp.

Reuters could not verify the nature of the changes in the camp.

In June, the Wagner group launched a brief mutiny against the army top brass in Russia, condemned as treason by President Vladimir Putin.

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko invited Wagner to set up operations in his country as part of a deal that ended the mutiny.

(Writing by Maxim Rodionov, Editing by Ron Popeski and Alistair Bell)
A combination image of satellite photos shows Sevastopol, Crimea before a Ukrainian missile attack, on September 12, 2023 (inset) and a view of the same site after the missile attack, on September 13, 2023. BlackSky/Handout via REUTERS

KYIV (Reuters) - A Ukrainian missile attack on the Sevastopol Shipyard in Russian-annexed Crimea this week caused heavy damage to a large Russian landing ship and submarine, commercial satellite imagery showed.

Kyiv said on Wednesday the two vessels were likely beyond repair after the pre-dawn missile attack on the port city of Sevastopol. Russia's defence ministry confirmed the strike, but said the vessels would be fully repaired and return to service.

Overhead images of the shipyard taken by the Black Sky company the day before and the day of the Sept. 13 attack showed two vessels in dry dock were visibly damaged.

"The Minsk Project 775 Ropucha-class landing ship and the Rostov-on-Don Kilo-class submarine vessels... sustained damage," the company wrote on the X social media platform late on Wednesday, publishing the images.

The strike was seen by military analysts as the biggest attack of the war on Sevastopol, which is home of the Russian navy's Black Sea Fleet. Russian forces seized the Crimean peninsula from Ukraine and annexed it in 2014.

(Reporting by Tom Balmforth, Editing by Timothy Heritage)
WARSAW (Reuters) - Seven people have been charged over alleged irregularities in the granting of Polish work visas, a prosecutor said on Wednesday, amid a deepening scandal on the hot-button subject of migration ahead of Oct. 15 elections.

Opposition claims that the government was complicit in a system in which migrants received visas at an accelerated pace without being properly checked after paying intermediaries could be damaging for the ruling nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) party, which has campaigned on a tough stance on immigration.

"Thanks to the efficient operation of the (security) services, the prosecutor...brought charges against seven people in this proceeding," said Daniel Lerman, deputy director of the Department for Organized Crime and Corruption of the National Prosecutor's Office. "Three people are under temporary arrest."

Former Deputy Foreign Minister Piotr Wawrzyk, who was fired on Aug. 31, the same day that Poland's Central Anti-Corruption Bureau (CBA) carried out a search of the foreign ministry, is accused by the opposition and media reports of playing a central role in the visa scheme.

Asked whether Wawrzyk was among those facing charges, Lerman declined to comment on individuals but said no state employees were among the seven accused.

Wawrzyk has not commented publicly on the claims about his involvement and the foreign ministry said his dismissal was due to "a lack of satisfactory cooperation".

On Wednesday opposition lawmakers said knowledge about the irregularities was widespread in government, stretching as far as Foreign Minister Zbigniew Rau.

PiS have said they are waiting for the results of the investigation, but that the opposition was exaggerating the scale of the problem.

PiS spokesperson Rafal Bochenek said on Thursday it was a "pseudo scandal" and that the state had started taking action long before opposition politicians were even aware of the issue.

The opposition has said the irregularities could concern hundreds of thousands of visa applications, but prosecutors have said that their investigation concerns several hundred.

Deputy coordinator of special services Stanislaw Zaryn said that none of the visa applicants concerned by the investigation posed a security threat to Poland.

He also dismissed media reports that Polish services had only acted after being alerted by other European Union countries that were seeing unusually high number of migrants entering with Polish visas - which under the EU's Schengen open border regime give the holder the right to work throughout the bloc.

According to Eurostat data cited by Rzeczpospolita daily on Wednesday, Poland issued almost 2 million work visas over the past three years, including 600,000 in 2020, more than a quarter of the EU total that year.

(Reporting by Alan Charlish, Editing by William Maclean)
(Reuters) - Slovakia has expelled a diplomat based in Russia's embassy and summoned its ambassador over the matter, the Slovak Foreign Ministry said on its website on Thursday.

"The reason is his activities, which were in direct violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which were thoroughly documented by the competent authorities of the Slovak Republic," the ministry said regarding the expulsion.

The Russian diplomat has 48 hours to leave the country, it said.

The ministry further said it had summoned the Russian ambassador and urged the embassy to conduct its activities in accordance with the Vienna Convention.

It gave no further details.

(Reporting by Jason Hovet in Prague; editing by Mark Heinrich)
FILE PHOTO: A Southwest Airlines Co. Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft taxis after landing at Midway International Airport in Chicago, Illinois, U.S., March 13, 2019. REUTERS/Kamil Kraczynski/File Photo

(Reuters) - Southwest Airlines said on Thursday it was better-prepared to handle upcoming winter weather thanks to the low-cost carrier's "big investments" in improving de-icing capacity and staffing.

The Dallas-based company canceled thousands of flights in December last year after a massive winter storm crippled operations.

At an investor conference on Thursday, Southwest CEO Robert Jordan said the company has new technology that helps it better understand weather conditions.

"So big investments in winter operations, preparations. So de-icing trucks, and more de-icing capacity," Jordan said.

Southwest is a popular option for customers looking for quick travel times as it relies on a point-to-point service to connect vast swathes of the country, instead of operating out of large hubs. But adverse weather last year made it difficult for it to marshal staff scattered across the nation.

"I feel very, very prepared for this winter and all that will be in place by October," Jordan said.

(Reporting by Mariam Sunny in Bengaluru; Editing by Devika Syamnath)
FILE PHOTO: Deputy head of Sudan's sovereign council General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo speaks during a press conference at Rapid Support Forces head quarter in Khartoum, Sudan February 19, 2023. REUTERS/Mohamed Nureldin Abdallah

CAIRO (Reuters) - The head of Sudan's main paramilitary group threatened on Thursday to set up a governing authority in areas his forces control if his enemies in the army form a government.

Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo has been fighting the army for almost five months in a conflict that has wrecked the country and triggered a humanitarian crisis.

Last month, a senior figure in Sudan's Sovereign Council, headed by army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, said a caretaker government was needed.

On Thursday Dagalo, known as Hemedti, said: "If the army forms the government, we will immediately initiate broad consultations to establish a genuine civilian authority in areas under our extensive control with Khartoum as the capital."

He added that any move by the army to set up a caretaker government in the eastern Red Sea port of Port Sudan would split the country.

While the RSF has fanned out across residential areas throughout Khartoum and neighbouring Bahri and Omdurman, the army has used its advantage of heavy artillery and air strikes to try to push them back, resulting in hundreds of civilian casualties.

The army and Rapid Support Forces began fighting on April 15, after tensions arose over integration of their troops in a new transition to democracy. While several countries have launched mediation efforts, none has succeeded in bringing a halt to the fighting.

(Reporting by Alaa Swilam and Khalid Abdelaziz; Writing by Alaa Swilam; Editing by Andrew Heavens)
TAIPEI (Reuters) - Taiwan's defence ministry said on Thursday that in the past 24 hours it had detected 40 Chinese air force aircraft entering the island's air defence zone, mostly flying to the south of Taiwan and into the Bashi Channel.

At least four of the aircraft also crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait to the northwest of the island, according to a map the ministry provided.

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Jacqueline Wong)
A bronze seal for the Department of the Treasury is shown at the U.S. Treasury building in Washington, U.S., January 20, 2023. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque/File photo
A Union Jack flag flutters in front of the Houses of Parliament in London, Britain, November 5, 2019. REUTERS/Hannah McKay/File photo

By Andrew MacAskill and Kylie MacLellan

LONDON (Reuters) -Chinese spies are targeting British officials in sensitive positions in politics, defence and business as part of an increasingly sophisticated spying operation to gain access to secrets, the British government said on Thursday.

The government, responding to a parliamentary report in July that found the government's approach to the threat posed by China was inadequate, highlighted the "prolific" scale of Chinese espionage.

"Chinese recruitment schemes have tried to headhunt British and allied nationals in key positions and with sensitive knowledge and experience," the government said.

There has been growing anxiety about Chinese activity in Britain, exacerbated since it was revealed at the weekend that a parliamentary researcher was arrested in March on suspicion of spying for China.

The arrest of the young researcher, who denied being a spy, has led to calls by British members of parliament for a tougher stance. The Chinese foreign ministry called the spying claims "entirely groundless".

'CAN DO BETTER'

In its highly critical report, the Intelligence and Security Committee said Beijing had successfully penetrated every sector of the British economy and ministers had been too slow to deal with the threat.

China is involved in a "whole state" assault on Britain and the government's approach has been "completely inadequate" and dominated by short-term economic interests, the committee concluded after a four-year inquiry.

Sunak told parliament that he accepted the report and recognised that it identified areas where "we can do better".

Britain's domestic intelligence service MI5 has said it is now running seven times as many investigations into Chinese activity as it did in 2018 and plans more. The government has set up a unit to protect elections from foreign interference.

Last year, MI5 issued a rare security alert, warning members of parliament that a suspected Chinese spy was "involved in political interference activities" in Britain.

There was also a newspaper report this week that MI5 had warned the ruling party that two potential candidates to become lawmakers were Chinese spies.

The government said it regularly vets officials and has set up software to help identify fake profiles on social media.

More than 25,000 people used a "Think Before You Link" app, launched last year, to report approaches from people suspected of using fake profiles, including Chinese intelligence services, the government said.

(Reporting by Andrew MacAskill, Kylie MacLellan and Muvija M; editing by Michael Holden and Christina Fincher)
By David Brunnstrom

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.N. human rights expert for Myanmar on Wednesday called on the United States to further tighten sanctions on the country's military rulers to include their main revenue source, the state oil and gas enterprise.

U.N. Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews, a former member of the U.S. Congress, also said it was vital for Washington to at least maintain levels of humanitarian support for victims of the junta inside and outside Myanmar.

Andrews told a hearing of the U.S. Congress's Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission he was "alarmed" by reports that some donors, including the U.S., might reduce support for Rohingya refugees who fled Myanmar and said a Joint Response Plan that includes food rations for Rohingya children in Bangladesh was only 32% funded so far this year.

Andrews praised Washington for imposing sanctions on the Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank and Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank in June, but said more needed to be done.

"We need to have more sanctions imposed... I urge the U.S. to join the European Union and immediately impose sanctions on the junta's single largest source of revenue, the Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise," Andrews said.

"If you can stop the money, you can cut their ability to continue these atrocities," he said referring to civilian deaths at the hands of the military.

Andrews also urged Washington to work with other countries to block the junta's access to weapons.

Last month, Washington expanded its sanctions against Myanmar to include foreign companies or individuals helping the junta to procure jet fuel it uses to launch air strikes, while estimating that the military had killed more than 3,900 civilians since taking power in a 2021 coup.

In January, the United States targeted the managing director and deputy managing director of the Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise with sanctions, but has yet to go further against the firm, despite the urgings of rights groups and dissidents.

Myanmar military officials have played down the impact of sanctions and say their air strikes target insurgents.

Andrews said in a May report that Myanmar's military had imported at least $1 billion in arms and other material since the coup and called out Russia and China for aiding its campaign to crush its opposition.

(Reporting by David Brunnstrom; Editing by Christopher Cushing)
By Humeyra Pamuk

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Biden administration has allowed much of U.S. foreign military aid to Egypt to go ahead, saying the country was vital for U.S. national security interests despite what critics have said about widespread human rights abuses.

Washington has only withheld $85 million of the aid, which under U.S. law was contingent on Egypt making "clear and consistent progress" in releasing political prisoners, which the United States said Cairo did not fulfill.

That amount withheld is a fraction of the $1.3 billion a year allocated for Egypt.

The United States has long provided Egypt with large amounts of military and other aid, ever since the Arab world's most populous nation signed a peace deal with neighboring Israel in 1979. Cairo has remained a close regional ally of Washington.

The law allows a further $235 million to be withheld as that portion is also conditioned on Egypt meeting democracy and human rights requirements but U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken used his right to waive these conditions, U.S. officials said.

"Egypt's voice is a crucial one, on so many issues across the region that we're trying to work together in the spirit of regional peace and security," said a senior State Department official who briefed reporters on the decision.

The decision did not diminish U.S. commitment to advancing human rights in Egypt, said other U.S. officials, also speaking on the condition of anonymity. Washington has held "tough conversations" with the Egyptians on its human rights track record, the officials said.

But rights groups who have long accused Egypt of widespread abuses under President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's government, including torture and enforced disappearances, said the U.S. decision sends the wrong message.

"The administration is effectively telling Sisis government that it saw improvement in the human rights situation over the past year, when in fact things have degenerated significantly," a consortium of 16 groups that include Freedom House and the Project on Middle East Democracy (POMED) said in a statement.

"This undermines any efforts by the administration to address human rights concerns in Egypt and will only further embolden al-Sisi, risking further destabilizing the country."

Sisi denies there are political prisoners in Egypt. He says stability and security are paramount and authorities are promoting rights by trying to provide basic needs such as jobs and housing.

Political analysts said Western powers are reluctant to take serious action against a strategic ally that has served as a mediator in long-standing issues such as the Arab-Israeli conflict, and which controls the Suez Canal, one of the world's most valuable shipping lanes.

(Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk; editing by Grant McCool)
FILE PHOTO: A general view of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia September 30, 2014. REUTERS/Tami Chappell/File Photo

(Reuters) - The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on Thursday it expects the total number of hospitalizations from COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus infections and flu this year to be similar to last year, higher than pre-pandemic levels.

The government health agency also said it expects flu and RSV infections to increase over the fall and winter seasons.

Vaccines for all three major respiratory viruses  COVID-19, flu, and RSV  will be available this fall, the CDC said.

Higher levels of vaccination across the population will help reduce the number of hospitalizations and risk of straining the country's hospitals, CDC added.

The CDC on Tuesday signed off on the broad use of updated COVID-19 vaccines made by Pfizer and partner BioNTech SE as well as Moderna - covering ages 6 months and upward - as the country prepares to start a vaccination campaign within days.

A surge in cases of RSV infections coinciding with an increase in COVID transmission and an earlier-than-normal flu season has raised the specter of a so-called 'tripledemic' of respiratory illness across the United States.

(Reporting by Mariam Sunny in Bengaluru; Editing by Shailesh Kuber)
ROME (Reuters) - A UNESCO committee has decided not to add Venice to the organisation's World Heritage List in Danger, disregarding a recommendation from experts and sparing the Italian government from an embarrassing verdict on the city's condition.

"The World Heritage Committee ... has made the decision not to inscribe Venice and its Lagoon on the World Heritage List in Danger," UNESCO, the U.N. cultural agency, said in a statement as the committee met in Riyadh.

Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano said adding Venice to the list would have been an "undue move" not based on objective facts. "Venice, therefore, is not in danger," he said in a statement.

Venice, known for its canals and cultural sites, has long been threatened by floods and mass tourism.

Sangiuliano said UNESCO had positively assessed Italian attempts to address these issues via the MOSE anti-flooding system and by the recent approval of an entry fee for tourists, kicking in next year.

However, UNESCO said more work was needed to protect the fragile lagoon city.

"The Committee reiterated its concerns regarding the important issues that remain to be addressed for the proper conservation of the site, including those linked to mass tourism, development projects and climate change," it said.

(Reporting by Angelo Amante in Rome and John Irish in Paris; Editing by Alvise Armellini and David Holmes)
FILE PHOTO: An oversize Trump sign is seen in the back of a pickup truck parked outside the Republican Party of Eau Claire County office in Altoona, Wisconsin, U.S., October 22, 2020. REUTERS/Bing Guan/File Photo

By Joseph Ax

(Reuters) - Wisconsin's Republican-controlled Senate voted on Thursday to oust the state's nonpartisan top elections official, Meagan Wolfe, a frequent target of right-wing attacks since Donald Trump's 2020 election loss.

Democrats say the attempt to remove Wolfe was illegal. In a statement after the vote, Democratic Governor Tony Evers said he was directing the state Department of Justice to file a lawsuit to ensure Wolfe can remain in her job.

Voting rights advocates have argued that the Republican move will fuel conspiracy theories about the integrity of the state's election system ahead of 2024, when Wisconsin is likely to be a crucial swing state in the U.S. presidential race.

Wolfe, who has served as administrator for the state elections commission since 2018, told reporters following the vote that she had no intention of stepping down unless ordered to do so by a court.

"The 2024 election cycle begins in less than three months," she said. "There is such important work ahead, and my hope is that we quickly get the clarity that we need from the courts."

In June, the bipartisan commission deadlocked on whether to nominate her to another four-year term, after Democrats deliberately abstained from the vote because they feared the Republican-majority Senate would not confirm her. That left the commission short of the four votes needed under state law to reappoint Wolfe.

Democrats have pointed to a recent state Supreme Court ruling that officials whose terms expire remain in their position in the absence of a legitimate replacement.

"The Senate cannot simply manufacture a nomination that does not exist," Democratic Senator Mark Spreitzer said on the Senate floor ahead of the vote. "Any vote that is taken today on this nomination has no legal force."

In August, the state's Democratic attorney general, Josh Kaul, said in a letter that "there is no question" that Wolfe is still administrator and that the nomination before the Senate was improper.

Wolfe has faced sustained right-wing criticism since the 2020 election, when Trump claimed falsely that he had won the state, citing unsubstantiated claims of fraud. Trump is now the front-runner in the Republican nominating race to challenge Democratic President Joe Biden in 2024.

Republicans have also faulted Wolfe and the commission for policies adopted during the coronavirus pandemic intended to make it easier to vote, such as ballot drop boxes, which were later outlawed by the state Supreme Court.

The Republican majority leader of the Senate, Devin LeMahieu, said Wisconsin voters needed to have confidence that there is no fraud in the state's elections.

"The fact is that Wisconsinites have expressed concerns with the administration of elections both here in Wisconsin and also nationally," he said on the floor.

The move against Wolfe is the latest effort by the Republican-controlled legislature to exert its influence over other branches of state government.

Some Republican lawmakers have threatened to impeach Democratic state Supreme Court Justice Janet Protasiewicz, whose electoral victory earlier this year gave liberals a majority on the high court for the first time in years.

The court is expected to decide whether to uphold the state's 19th-century abortion ban in the coming months, among other significant cases. Republicans have faulted Protasiewicz for public comments she made during the campaign that they say demonstrated her bias.

(Reporting by Joseph Ax; Editing by Colleen Jenkins, Daniel Wallis and Diane Craft)
(Reuters) - Unionized refinery workers at Phillips 66's 356,000 barrel per day Wood River refinery in Roxana, Illinois, ratified a contract with the refiner in late-stage negotiations, union leaders said on Wednesday.

A majority of about 370 operators in the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 399 voted Wednesday to accept the proposal, averting a potential strike, the union officials said.

The union had been in federally mediated negotiations with the refiner since July, when it rejected a company proposal and sought additional benefits for holiday and vacation hours and pay, among other improvements.

"Phillips 66 values our good relationship with the union, and we are committed to engaging in good-faith bargaining," a company spokesperson said earlier this week, adding it believed the company's offer satisfied that goal.

Phillips 66 could not be reached for comment on Wednesday evening.

The ratified contract includes several items the union had been working towards for decades, the union leaders said on Wednesday.

(Reporting by Laura Sanicola; Editing by Jamie Freed)
Humberto Lopez, the World Bank's director in Turkey, speaks during an interview with Reuters in Ankara, Turkey, September 14, 2023. REUTERS/Ece Toksabay

By Ece Toksabay and Nevzat Devranoglu

ANKARA (Reuters) -The World Bank's Turkey director said on Thursday that the economy was heading in the right direction but there was more to do, a week after the bank said it would double its exposure to Turkey to $35 billion over three years.

In an interview with Reuters, Humberto Lopez said that of the additional $18 billion funding, $6 billion was intended for the public sector and the remaining $12 billion was earmarked for the private sector.

Since June, the central bank has hiked its key interest rate by 1,650 basis points while the government has begun rolling back some of the unorthodox rules and regulations that had left credit and foreign exchange markets under extensive state control.

The policy U-turn, which hit the lira, is meant to arrest soaring inflation expectations and rebuild badly depleted foreign exchange reserves.

"There is more to do, but I think that the way they are doing it is the right one," Lopez said, adding that inflation may have to rise "in the short run" as a result.

The government's immediate challenge, he said, was calibrating multiple policies while in the longer term it was boosting productivity.

The World Bank announced its new Turkey funding plans last week.

Lopez said the $6 billion earmarked over three years for the public sector would focus on renewable energy, flood management, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and support for the export sector.

(Reporting by Ece Toksabay and Nevzat Devranoglu; Writing by Jonathan Spicer; Editing by Daren Butler, Jon Boyle and Andrea Ricci)
false 0001330399 0001330399 2023-09-11 2023-09-11

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 8-K

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of

the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report (Date of Earliest Event Reported):

Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Federally Chartered Corporation 000-51395 25-6001324 (State or other jurisdiction (Commission (I.R.S. Employer of incorporation) File Number) Identification No.) 601 Grant Street , Pittsburgh , Pennsylvania 15219 (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

Registrants telephone number, including area code: 412 - 288-3400

Not Applicable

Former name or former address, if changed since last report

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

 Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

 Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

 Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

 Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class Trading Symbol(s) Name of each exchange on which registered   

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (240.12b-2 of this chapter).

Emerging growth company 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 

Item 2.03 Creation of a Direct Financial Obligation or an Obligation under an Off-Balance Sheet Arrangement of a Registrant.

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (the "FHLBank") obtains most of its funds from the sale of debt securities, known as consolidated obligations, in the capital markets. Consolidated obligations, which consist of bonds and discount notes, are by regulation the joint and several obligations of the eleven Federal Home Loan Banks. The Federal Home Loan Banks are regulated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (the "Finance Agency"), successor to the Federal Housing Finance Board effective on July 30, 2008 (collectively, the "Regulator"), and the regulations issued by the Regulator authorize the Finance Agency to require any Federal Home Loan Bank to repay all or a portion of the principal of or interest on consolidated obligations for which another Federal Home Loan Bank is the primary obligor. Consolidated obligations are sold to the public through the Office of Finance using authorized securities dealers. Consolidated obligations are backed only by the financial resources of the eleven Federal Home Loan Banks and are not guaranteed by the United States government.

Schedule A sets forth all consolidated obligation bonds and discount notes committed to be issued by the Federal Home Loan Banks, for which the FHLBank is the primary obligor, on the trade dates indicated, other than discount notes with a maturity of one year or less that are issued in the ordinary course of business. Schedule A also includes any consolidated obligations with a remaining maturity in excess of one year, if any, for which we have assumed the primary repayment obligation from another Federal Home Loan Bank.

We may elect to change our method or reporting information on the issuance or assumption of consolidated obligations at any time. In reviewing the information in this Current Report on Form 8-K, please note:

 although consolidated obligations issuance is material to the FHLBank, we have not made a judgment as to the materiality of any particular consolidated obligation or obligations;

 Schedule A does not address any interest-rate exchange agreements (or other derivative instruments) which we may enter into as a result of our asset and liability management strategies that may be associated, directly or indirectly, with one or more of the reported consolidated obligations;

 Schedule A will not enable a reader to track changes in the total consolidated obligations outstanding for which we are the primary obligor since Schedule A generally excludes consolidated obligation discount notes with a maturity of one year or less and does not reflect whether the proceeds from the issuance of the reported consolidated obligations will be used to, among other things, satisfy called or maturing consolidated obligations. We will report the total consolidated obligations outstanding for which we are the primary obligor in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and

 the principal amounts reported on Schedule A represent the principal amount of the reported consolidated obligations at par, which may not correspond to the amounts reported in our financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles contained in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, because the par amount does not account for, among other things, any discount, premiums or concessions.

Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.

Exhibit 99.1 - Schedule A

Exhibit Index

Exhibit No. Description 99.1 Schedule A 104 Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document).

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh September 14, 2023 By: /s/ Edward V. Weller Name: Edward V. Weller Title: Chief Financial Officer

ATTACHMENTS / EXHIBITS

EX-99.1

XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION LABEL LINKBASE DOCUMENT

XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION SCHEMA DOCUMENT

XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION PRESENTATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT

IDEA: R1.htm

IDEA: ck0001330399-20230911_htm.xml

IDEA: Financial_Report.xlsx

IDEA: FilingSummary.xml

IDEA: MetaLinks.json
Cintas Corporation (CTAS)

Shareholder Alert

Voluntary submission by John Chevedden, POB 2673, Redondo Beach, CA 90278

Cintas shareholder since 2019

Please Support Item 6 for Science-Based Targets and Transition Plan

To Cintas Corporation Shareholders:

I ask shareholders to vote FOR Item 6 at the Cintas Corporation shareholder meeting on October 24, 2023. The proposal asks Cintas Corporation (Cintas or the Company) to set science-based greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets and disclose how it plans to meet those targets by developing a climate transition plan.

In order to limit warming to 1.5C and prevent the worst impacts of climate change, emissions must be cut in half by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050. With only seven years remaining until 2030, investors require clear information about how companies plan to align with global climate goals and mitigate the material financial risks that climate change poses to their business, investor portfolios, and the global economy. Cintas expresses an ambition to achieve Net Zero GHG emissions by 2050. Unlike many of its peers, however, Cintas climate strategy lacks tangible targets to guide future business plans. Without such targets, the Company risks oversight of material, physical, supply chain, and regulatory implications associated with climate change. Setting science-based targets and developing a climate transition plan will help Cintas mitigate these risks.

RESOLVED: Shareholders request that Cintas Corporation, within a year, issue near- and long-term science-based greenhouse gas reduction targets aligned with the Paris Agreements ambition of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5C and summarize plans to achieve them. The targets should cover the Companys full range of operational and supply chain emissions.

SUPPORTING STATEMENT: In assessing targets, we recommend,

 Taking into consideration approaches used by advisory groups like the Science-Based Targets initiative;

 Developing a transition plan that shows how the Company plans to meet its goals, taking into consideration criteria used by advisory groups; and

 Consideration of supporting targets for renewable energy, energy efficiency, fleet electrification and other measures deemed appropriate by management.

Summary

1. Cintas does not have a climate mitigation strategy aligned with the Paris Agreements ambition to limit warming to 1.5C.

2. The Company lags peers in addressing climate risk.

3. Full emissions disclosure, setting science-based targets and developing a transition plan will help Cintas prepare for upcoming regulatory changes and dynamic business conditions.

4. Cintas current climate risk mitigation strategies and disclosures do not meet investor expectations.

Rationale for a YES vote

1. Cintas does not have a climate mitigation strategy aligned with the Paris Agreements ambition to limit warming to 1.5C.

Despite reporting in its 2023 10-K that climate-related severe weather events and unexpected natural disasters pose physical risk to the Company,1 Cintas has taken limited steps to date to address its climate impact. The Companys absolute emissions have grown since 2021, and it does not have science-based GHG reduction targets or a publicly available climate transition plan aligned with limiting warming to 1.5C.

While the Companys efforts to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions outlined in its opposition statement are welcome, they lack specific, measurable, and forward-looking goals necessary to achieve Cintas Net Zero ambition. Further, Cintas 2022 Corporate Responsibility Report notes that it lowered its emissions intensity by 7.5% over the past fiscal year,2 but does not account for the Scope 3 emissions that make up a vast majority of its overall footprint. It has pursued GHG reduction efforts with limited impact, reporting that its LED lighting installations will avoid 16,501 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2e) per year.3 By contrast, the Companys total reported emissions footprint in 2022 was more than 1.8 million MTCO2e.4 It is unclear how Cintas will achieve Net Zero by 2050 through its current efforts.

2. The Company lags peers in addressing climate risk.

Cintas lags peers in setting science-based GHG reduction targets and supporting goals aimed at reducing emissions. ABM Industries Incorporated (ABM), which Cintas identifies as a peer company in its 10-K,5 has committed to setting near-term 1.5C-aligned greenhouse gas targets through the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). It is already working towards a well-below 2C-aligned target to reduce its scope 1, 2, and partial scope 3 emissions 27.5% by 2030 from a 2019 base year. ABM also has transitioned 17% of its light-duty commercial vehicle fleet in the UK to electric vehicles (EVs) in addition to piloting EVs in the U.S.6 Cintas, however, has only deployed 16 EVs in the U.S. of a commercial fleet of 14,000 vehicles.7 Numerous industry peers have also set or committed to setting targets through SBTi. Aramark has set 1.5C-aligned near-term, long-term, and net zero targets validated by SBTi and commits that 62% of its suppliers8 will set SBTs by fiscal year 2027. Ecolab has set 1.5C-aligned near-term targets and committed to net zero validated by SBTi. These companies join the nearly 6,000 others that have set or committed to set targets through SBTi.9

_____________________________

1 https://www.cintas.com/docs/default-source/investor-relations/annual-reports/2023-Form-10-K.pdf

2 https://www.cintas.com/docs/default-source/esg/cintas_2022_esgreport.pdf?sfvrsn=84622d8b_7 (p.29)

3 https://www.cintas.com/docs/default-source/esg/cintas_2022_esgreport.pdf?sfvrsn=84622d8b_7 (p.33)

4 https://www.cintas.com/docs/default-source/esg/cintas_2022_esgreport.pdf?sfvrsn=84622d8b_7 (p.30)

5 https://www.cintas.com/docs/default-source/investor-relations/annual-reports/2023-Form-10-K.pdf (p.14)

6 https://www.abm.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/2021-ESG-Impact-Report/ABM-0218-Sustainability-Report-2021-24-144ppi.pdf (p.63)

7 https://www.cintas.com/docs/default-source/esg/cintas_2022_esgreport.pdf?sfvrsn=84622d8b_7

8 By emissions covering purchased goods and services and upstream transportation and distribution; https://sciencebasedtargets.org/companies-taking-action

9 https://sciencebasedtargets.org/companies-taking-action

3. Setting science-based targets and developing a transition plan will help Cintas prepare for regulatory changes and dynamic business conditions.

In its opposition statement, Cintas claims that fulfilling the proposal would divert significant time and resources from its existing GHG reduction efforts as justification for delaying action on comprehensive emissions disclosure, target-setting, and climate transition planning. Cintas also states that it is not in its best interest to set targets when they already have taken, and continue to take, action. While the Proponent appreciates that the Company wishes to take a thoughtful risk-mitigation approach, it is unclear how target-setting would detract from Cintas current sustainability initiatives, for which it has specifically commissioned a Partners for a Cleaner Environment (PACE) team, leadership, and subject matter experts to carry out. In 2022, the Company expanded its emissions disclosure to include full operations in the U.S. and Canada, so it is well-prepared to begin the target-setting and implementation process.

While Cintas has demonstrated that its emissions reduction and energy efficiency initiatives have contributed to reducing its Scope 1 and 2 emissions intensity between 2019 and 2022, such reductions are modest considering they do not capture the Companys Scope 3 emissions. Further, Cintas disclosure of its emissions intensity reductions, as opposed to absolute reductions, fails to capture increased GHG emissions that occur alongside business and revenue growth.

4. Cintas current climate risk mitigation strategies and disclosures do not meet investor expectations.

Investors increasingly expect companies to address climate-related risks. The Climate Action 100+, an investor-led initiative made up of 700 global investors who are responsible for more than $68 trillion in assets under management, has established the Net Zero Company Benchmark, which asks companies to reduce emissions in line with limiting warming to 1.5C and undergo robust net-zero transition planning.10 Major investors like BlackRock and State Street asked companies to align their reporting with the Taskforce for Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD),11and State Street has also published its disclosure expectations for climate transition plans.12 Cintas Corporation is not currently aligned with any of these frameworks or disclosure expectations.

_____________________________

10 https://www.climateaction100.org/whos-involved/investors/; https://www.climateaction100.org/news/climate-action-100-releases-the-latest-evolution-of-the-net-zero-company-benchmark/

11 https://www.esgtoday.com/state-street-to-require-companies-to-provide-tcfd-aligned-climate-disclosures/; https://www.blackrock.com/corporate/literature/whitepaper/spotlight-blk-supports-consistent-climate-related-disclosures-urges-global-coordination-june-2022.pdf

12 https://www.ssga.com/library-content/pdfs/asset-stewardship/disclosure-expectations-for-effective-climate-transition-plans.pdf

Written materials are submitted pursuant to Rule 14a-6(g)(1) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.*

*Submission is not required of this filer under the terms of the Rule but is made voluntarily in the interest of public disclosure and consideration of these important issues.

This is not a solicitation of authority to vote your proxy. Please DO NOT send me your proxy card; the shareholder is not able to vote your proxies, nor does this communication contemplate such an event.

The shareholder asks all shareholders to vote by following the procedural instructions provided in the proxy materials.
Air Force Col. Jeffrey Fewell is commander of the 31st Medical Group at Aviano Air Base, Italy. In a briefing with teachers on Sept. 12, 2023, Fewell spoke about a policy adopted 11 days earlier that halts treatment of paying patients at the base clinic. (U.S. Air Force)

AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy  The clinic at the largest Air Force community in Italy is no longer treating Defense Department civilians, their families and others who once paid for their own medical care, citing a lack of money and staff.

The decision has some military employees worried that they wont be able to receive equivalent care at off-base Italian facilities, where fluent English isnt a given and some prescriptions may not be available.

Col. Jeffrey Fewell, commander of the 31st Medical Group, made the announcement Tuesday to about two dozen Department of Defense Education Activity teachers.

We have to prioritize our resources to our active-duty and Tricare enrollees, he said during a briefing on the policy, which was adopted Sept. 1.

Active-duty service members receive free health care, while their families, which are covered by Tricare, pay significantly lower costs than many Americans.

Most DOD civilians are typically covered by large private insurance companies, which pay a varying percentage of costs minus any copayments. But not all the money those patients pay for their care goes back to the Aviano clinic, base officials said.

A similar move to restrict on-base civilian health care sparked a furor last year in Japan, where many said in base forums that they had difficulty scheduling appointments with Japanese doctors.

In March, the Defense Health Agency partially reversed the move by allowing civilians with chronic conditions like diabetes to see care on base in Japan, but only on a space-available basis.

Just how many people the new policy at Aviano will affect is unknown.

Base officials generally know the number of civilians employed there, 31st Fighter Wing spokesman 1st Lt. Steve Garrett said Tuesday. But factors such as family size, veteran status and the nature of their sponsorship arent as easy to determine.

A recent review of a seven-month period found that about 19% of slots in the Aviano Family Health Clinic had been devoted to paying patients.

Fewell said the new policy affects a small percentage of people at Aviano, which has an active-duty population of about 4,600 airmen and soldiers and an equal number of their dependents.

Americans not sponsored by active-duty or retired military personnel at Aviano Air Base, Italy, are now largely barred from making appointments at the clinic run by the 31st Medical Group. (Kent Harris/Stars and Stripes)

Those attending the briefing Tuesday expressed frustration at being notified of the change only after the policy had gone into effect.

Some worried about expiring medications and a few mentioned specific drugs that are either unavailable or prohibited in Italy.

Jeff England, a fifth grade teacher whos been at Aviano for 20 years, was among them. England and his wife, Rene Alexander, have a 20-year-old son who has been prescribed Concerta by the base for almost a decade.

Italian doctors cannot prescribe that drug and similar ones such as Adderall.

Others talked about increased costs or a language barrier with physicians. And some said that even Italian speakers have trouble getting an appointment if theyre not citizens.

We have seen Italian doctors, Alexander said. But I also speak Italian fluently. It took me 10 years to find doctors for my kids. New families here? Theyre just not going to be able to do that.

Fewell said he understood those concerns and that his team will do its best to help on a case-by-case basis.

Its not my intent to push anybody out, he said. But I do have to prioritize my resources. And I dont have the resources that I once had. And thats just a fact.

Fewell also told the group of teachers that access to the pharmacy will be shut off Sept. 23 through Jan. 1.

Thats primarily because the base will be implementing MHS Genesis, a new computer system designed to consolidate electronic records for service members that military facilities worldwide are adopting.

Fewell expects a steep learning curve at his clinic, so the number of available care spots will be reduced for all patients during that time.

I think its very, very likely that were going to be able to turn the pharmacy back on (for paying patients) at some point, he said.

Told by England that many Italian doctors are required to handle large caseloads and that making appointments can be difficult for non-Italians, Fewell acknowledged unfamiliarity with the domestic health care system.

We have some homework to do on that, he said.

The clinic does employ Italian liaisons to engage with a network of local providers, but they dont help those considered pay patients, including DOD civilians and family members.

The clinic makes approximately 6,000 off-base referrals for its Tricare population annually, as it employs almost no specialists.

The number of medical personnel on base has dropped dramatically since the Defense Department downgraded numerous military hospitals to clinics in 2017.

The Aviano family clinic has two general care doctors and two pediatricians assigned to it.

Not long after the hospital became a clinic, the base announced it would restrict pay patients access.

But that directive largely didnt apply to school-age dependents, and some pay patients could still book appointments.

England and Alexander said the change reflects a deeper divide between services available to service members and their families, and others affiliated with the military.

It just kind of reinforces the second-class citizen sentiment, England said.
South Korean F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters fly over the Korean Peninsula, Dec. 20, 2022. (South Koreas Ministry of Nation)

CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea  The U.S. State Department has approved a potential sale of 25 F-35A Lightning IIs to South Korea for an estimated $5.06 billion, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said Wednesday.

The department approved five more F-35As than South Koreas Defense Acquisition Program Administration initially planned for in March. Seoul originally said it would ask for 20 of the joint strike fighters by 2028.

South Koreas plan to add over 20 additional F-35As to its fleet would strengthen its capabilities against North Korean threats, a defense acquisition program officer told Stars and Stripes by phone Thursday. He declined to provide further details.

South Korean officials customarily speak to the media on condition of anonymity.

The possible deal includes 26 Pratt and Whitney F135-PW-100 gas turbine engines capable of producing over 40,000 pounds of thrust, and other components, for Lockheed Martins fifth-generation fighter.

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a major ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific region, the agency said in its release.

Seouls military already maintains roughly 40 F-35As purchased from the U.S. in 2014 for $7 billion.

South Korea can meet current and future threats with new F-35As and will ensure that its military and U.S. forces can operate together more seamlessly, the agency added.

The F-35 comes in three variants: the A can do conventional takeoffs and landings; the B is capable of short takeoffs and vertical landings; and the C is designed for arrested landings aboard aircraft carriers.

F-35As from the U.S. and South Korean air forces trained together for the first time in July 2022.

Six stealth jets from Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, flew to the peninsula for 10 days of familiarization and routine training with their South Korean counterparts, U.S. Forces Korea said at the time.

Since then, South Korean F-35As have flown numerous air drills with the U.S. Air Force. An unspecified number of South Korean F-35As took to the skies on July 28 for a rapid and flexible response drill with U.S. F-16 Fighting Falcons, according to a 7th Air Force news release.
An M113-OSV armored personnel carrier rolls through a training village during Saber Junction 23 at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center near Hohenfels, Germany, Sept. 13, 2023. Eight soldiers were injured Tuesday during a nighttime tactical movement in Hohenfels when two M113s collided at a slow speed. (Michel Sauret/U.S. Army)

STUTTGART, Germany  Two soldiers were slated to be released from a Bavarian hospital Thursday after being treated for injuries stemming from a training accident that hurt eight in all, the Army said this week.

The injuries occurred Tuesday during a nighttime tactical movement at the Armys training area in Hohenfels, where two M113 armored personnel carriers collided at a slow speed, Joint Multinational Readiness Center spokesman Maj. John Ambelang said in a statement Wednesday.

The crash coincided with Saber Junction 23, a large drill involving several thousand troops.

Eight soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment were taken to a hospital in Regensburg after the crash. Six of those soldiers were released Wednesday, Ambelang said, adding that an investigation is underway.

Ahead of every exercise, the training center at Hohenfels rehearses medical evacuations to prepare for the possibility of injuries, he said.

There have been a series of crashes involving military vehicles in the area surrounding the Bavarian ranges at Hohenfels and Grafenwoehr in recent months.

In August, 1st Lt. Hailey Hodsden, a platoon leader with the 2nd Cavalry Regiments 4th Squadron, was killed when a semitruck collided with her armored Stryker vehicle on a highway near the village of Tirschenreuth.

In late July, eight soldiers in Vilseck were injured after their transport vehicle overturned while heading to a training range in the Grafenwoehr area.

Also, seven soldiers were injured in April after two armored vehicles convoying to the Grafenwoehr collided.
U.S. Marine Cpl. Armanjacob Celmar, left, and Staff Sgt. Jonas Ullmam, a Swedish marine, discuss simulated enemy positions during exercise Archipelago Endeavor 23 in Sweden on Sept. 11, 2023. (Emma Gray/U.S. Marine Corps)

BERGA NAVAL BASE, Sweden  A joint U.S.-Swedish military exercise this week in Swedens archipelago in the Baltic Sea sends a strong signal of NATOs resolve in the face of Russian aggression, defense officials from the two countries said.

That determination comes as Sweden prepares to join the alliance and NATO carefully observes the war in Ukraine for important lessons, including ones about fortitude, adaptability and cunning, they said.

Although officials declined to go into detail, they said studying the actions of Russian and Ukrainian forces is instructive for the U.S. military and future NATO member Sweden.

We are paying very close attention each and every day to what they are using, what they are trying to use and some of the concepts they are trying to employ, Maj. Gen. Robert Sofge, commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa, said Wednesday. (The war) is a lab in many ways.

Sofge was in Sweden for Archipelago Endeavor 23, which included more than 100 sailors and Marines from the II Marine Expeditionary Force. The exercise ended Thursday.

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jaxson Caison takes up a position during exercise Archipelago Endeavor 23 in Sweden on Sept. 11, 2023. (Emma Gray/U.S. Marine Corps) A U.S. Marine takes part in exercise Archipelago Endeavor 23 in Sweden on Sept. 7, 2023. The joint exercise, which ended Thursday, involved marines from the two countries. (Emma Gray/U.S. Marine Corps) Swedish marines aboard a Combat Boat 90 pull up to a pier during Exercise Archipelago Endeavor 23 in Sweden on Sept. 12, 2023. The Swedish armed forces led the exercise in cooperation with U.S. Marines. (Emma Gray/U.S. Marine Corps) Sailors and Marines of the II Marine Expeditionary Force and members of Sweden's 1st Marine Regiment participate in a simulated withdrawal of forces, or hot pick-up, as part of the joint military exercise Archipelago Endeavor 23 near Berga, Sweden, on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. (Alison Bath/Stars and Stripes)

The war also has served to fortify the determination of allies and partners should the Kremlin turn its attention beyond Ukraine, Sofge said.

That was echoed by Col. Adam Camel, commander of Swedens 1st Marine Regiment.

Were getting better and more lethal, Camel said.

Sweden announced a 28% increase in military spending this week, The Associated Press reported Tuesday.

That would bring the country, which is on the brink of NATO membership, on track to reach the blocs expectation that allies devote at least 2% of gross domestic product to defense expenditures, according to the AP report.

Previously worried about provoking Russia, Sweden and neighboring Finland reversed course after the Feb. 24, 2022, invasion of Ukraine, applying to join NATO in May of that year.

Maj. Gen. Robert Sofge, commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa, speaks to reporters near Berga, Sweden, on Sept. 13, 2023. Sofge said Russia's unprovoked attack on Ukraine had changed minds and helped strengthen NATO. (Alison Bath/Stars and Stripes) Col. Adam Camel, commander of Sweden's 1st Marine Regiment, speaks with reporters during the joint military exercise Archipelago Endeavor 23 on Sept. 13, 2023. Camel said the exercise sends a signal to Russia that NATO forces are getting better and more lethal. (Alison Bath/Stars and Stripes)

Finland joined in April, but Swedens bid had been held up by Turkey and Hungary. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the main hurdle, has since relented on his objections, putting Sweden on a path for accession this fall.

With Finland and Norway already in the NATO fold, the impending addition of Sweden offers the alliance unprecedented opportunities in the Baltic region, Sofge said.

Swedens membership would make nearly the entire Baltic Sea coast NATO territory.

On Wednesday, U.S. and Swedish marines demonstrated their ability to work together in a mock scenario involving the removal of forces under fire.

The Americans praised the professionalism and focus of their Swedish counterparts and were inspired by their littoral capabilities, including use of the Combat Boat 90, an assault craft.

The exercise allowed the two countries forces to strengthen communication and equipment compatibility and also provided the Corps an opportunity to jointly experiment as it works to integrate across domains, Sofge said.
Navy chaplain Mercedes Petitfrere has accused Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune of substandard medical care that she believes cost her sons life and resulted in his stillbirth. (Amanda Andrade-Rhoades/for The Washington Post)

The pain surged throughout her lower body.

Navy chaplain Mercedes Petitfrere, 20 weeks pregnant with her first child, rushed to the emergency room at her military hospital in Jacksonville, N.C. Her abdomen throbbed. She could hardly walk. It hurt to pee. A midwife at Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune attributed her pain to fibroids. But Petitfrere  a 35-year-old Black lieutenant whose pregnancy was considered high-risk because of her age  explained that shed had the benign growths in her uterus for a long time, and that they had never caused any pain.

The hospital, she later said in a claim filed with the Navy, ignored her distress, told her fibroid pain was normal during pregnancy and expressed no concern about their discovery that she was having contractions. That day, Petitfrere was sent home and took prescription-strength Tylenol that was given to her by the midwife.

The Defense Department later argued that Lejeunes hospital  which helps serve nearly 46,000 active-duty service members and their families on a military base with the countrys greatest concentration of Marines - met the standard of care and that it handled her case without any negligent act or omission.

Two days later, Petitfrere returned to the hospital. This time, she was spotting  shed found blood in her underwear. She was still having contractions, and now, medical records show, her cervix was rapidly shortening, a sign of preterm labor. But the hospital treated her like a nuisance, she alleged in her claim, and said she and her baby were fine.

She wasnt, though. By the next morning, on Dec. 20, 2018, Petitfrere was writhing in pain. She couldnt stand or put on her uniform to go to work. She and her husband, Louis Petitfrere, at the time a fellow Navy chaplain, knew she needed medical attention right away. But she refused to go back to Lejeune. Instead, they raced to a nearby civilian hospital, where she couldnt answer intake questions because she was screaming.

Three hours later, Petitfrere delivered a stillborn son. She and Louis had chosen a name for him when theyd first learned they were having a boy: Primas. He weighed less than a pound  277 grams  and was 9 1/2 inches long.

The stillbirth was devastating, Petitfrere said in an interview, crying often as she recounted its impact on her and Louis.

Theyd met at officer development school in 2016. He was a pastor from Southern California. Shed spent time in Africa as a missionary and worked as a chaplain resident at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital in Virginia.

Mercedes Petitfrere and her husband, Louis, met at Camp Lejeune and were married in 2018. (Amanda Andrade-Rhoades/for The Washington Post)

When Petitfrere first considered joining the Navy, she was worried the change of stations and possible deployments overseas might hinder her chances of having a family. Shed lost her mother to suicide before her 3rd birthday, and her father, who served in the Army, was often deployed, so his parents and sister helped raise her. Shed been praying for a husband and children her entire life and knew she would feel incomplete without them.

She was reassured by the Navy recruiter who had found her resume online. He said, Youre going to be married and have a child before you leave your first duty station,  Petitfrere recalled. I looked at him with my mouth open. I knew the Lord was speaking through him.

In 2018, when she and Louis were both assigned to Camp Lejeune, they got married and rented a four-bedroom with plenty of room for all the children they wanted to have together. Primas was going to have brothers and sisters.

Now, two dozen or so of their friends and relatives gathered at a Jacksonville funeral home for their babys memorial service. Petitfrere knew the red-brick building with white shutters well because shed presided over services for veterans there. Inside, lullabies played on the speakers. A friend sang a gospel song. Another delivered a eulogy that Louis said gave them comfort in their anguish over the son whose name in Latin means first and whom he so badly wanted to call by the nickname, Prime.

Right after the service, Petitfrere told a friend that she wanted to sue the military hospital for medical malpractice.

But her friend, a Navy nurse, shocked her by telling her she couldnt, Petitfrere recalled. A decades-old Supreme Court decision bars service members from suing the U.S. government for any injuries or harm they suffer that arise from their military service, regardless of whether it occurred in a combat zone or on a training mission or during medical treatment at a base hospital.

Losing a child is painful regardless of the circumstances, Petitfrere said, but losing a child in the manner in which I lost mine  begging for help, being disregarded, sent away, made to feel as if it was all in my head, and being physically handled roughly by people who were supposed to help me  has eroded my general sense of safety. I went through a deep depression after losing my son. The grief of losing him was compounded by the horror I felt when I realized that I was surrounded by people who could help me, but they just refused to. That is not a feeling I will forget.

She grieved Primas even as she gave birth to a daughter, became a chaplain at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia, and got pregnant for a third time. In late 2020, when she was a few months away from delivering a second daughter, she heard about a new law designed to help service members like her: The Sgt. First Class Richard Stayskal Military Medical Accountability Act. Named after a Green Beret whose military hospital failed to recognize his lung cancer, the law allows troops to file claims within the Defense Department that allege medical malpractice by military health care providers.

This was a divine thing, Petitfrere said.

Petitfrere says she didnt realize the long odds she faced in her medical malpractice claim against the military. (Amanda Andrade-Rhoades/for The Washington Post)

A new system sabotaged

In December 2020, Petitfrere filed a malpractice claim under the Stayskal Act, seeking $5 million in damages for the medical care she received at Lejeune.

It was not a lawsuit. The Supreme Court ruled unanimously in 1950 that the government could not be held liable for injuries to servicemen where the injuries arise out of or are in the course of activity incident to service. The decision, known as the Feres doctrine, was named after one of the men involved in the lawsuits examined by the court. After Army officer Rudolph Feres was killed in a barracks fire in northern New York, his widow had sued the U.S. government.

In its ruling against Feres widow and the others, the court pointed to the availability of veterans benefits to pay for injuries suffered on the job and said if Congress had wanted to give service members the right to sue, it would have laid out in the law whether financial judgments would replace or supplement those benefits. Four years later, the court reaffirmed its ruling, saying that allowing soldiers to sue for negligence would weaken the militarys ability to maintain discipline.

Over the years, the Feres doctrine has faced harsh criticism, including from a near-majority of Supreme Court justices in 1987. In a case involving a Coast Guard pilot whose helicopter crashed into the side of a mountain on the Hawaiian island of Molokai, the late Justice Antonin Scalia, joined by three other members of the court, wrote a dissenting opinion that declared Feres clearly wrong and cited its unfairness and irrationality. But five justices voted to uphold it, ruling that permitting such lawsuits would interfere with military discipline.

For service members and their relatives, the impact of Feres has been sweeping, shutting down lawsuits alleging sexual assaults, exposure to radiation, even being given LSD by military researchers without consent.

In 2019, federal lawmakers tried to carve out one exception to the doctrine: giving soldiers, sailors and airmen a chance to sue for improper medical care. Then-congresswoman Jackie Speier (D-Calif.) introduced the Stayskal Act, which would have allowed service members to file lawsuits alleging malpractice at nearly 700 military treatment facilities around the world, except for those in combat zones.

But the proposal ran into opposition from the Pentagon, which believed malpractice lawsuits would hamper medical decision-making and military readiness, and, from at least one prominent member of Congress, Sen. Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.), who thought the bill would expose the Defense Department to too many lawsuits.

So a compromise was reached: When the Stayskal Act was added to the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act, the final version only permitted service members to file administrative claims with the Defense Department  not lawsuits in federal court.

Still, Petitfrere hoped the new process would allow her to prove that Lejeune was responsible for Primas death.

I thought that the Navy would want erring service members to be held accountable so that the larger body of their servicemen and women would have access to good medical care, said Petitfrere, now 40, and the deputy command chaplain at Quantico.

Her claim alleged that Lejeune provided medical attention that was grossly beneath the standard of care and cost Primas Petitfrere his life and forever altered the Petitfrere family.

Petitfrere holds an urn containing the ashes of her stillborn son, Primas. (Amanda Andrade-Rhoades/for The Washington Post)

Lejeunes staff minimized her discomfort, she contended in the claim, because she was yet another Black woman experiencing fibroids. At one point, a doctor Petitfrere said was Black asked her, according to her claim, who told [her] it was a good idea to become pregnant if she had fibroids. And when she asked for stronger pain medication, Lejeunes staff said no, citing an opioid crisis in the military, even though she had no history of substance abuse. Eventually the hospital relented, and gave her acetaminophen intravenously, her claim said.

If Mrs. Petitfrere were a pregnant White woman seeking critical medical attention at Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune, one must wonder if somebody would have listened to her cries for help, her claim stated. If she were a pregnant White woman pleading for assistance, she would not have been accused of seeking to abuse drugs or been asked why she thought it was a good idea to get pregnant in the first place. If Mrs. Petitfrere had been a pregnant White woman who went to the Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeunes emergency room, her son may still be alive today.

The hospital referred questions from The Post about Petitfreres allegations to the Defense Health Agency, which oversees the militarys clinics, hospitals and medical centers. Peter Graves, the agencys chief of media relations, said it was inappropriate to discuss individual medical malpractice claims.

Black women often face skepticism or indifference when they seek medical care for pain or other problems during their pregnancies, according to a new study by the United Nations on Black maternal mortality around the world. It found that African American women and teens in the United States were three times more likely to die while pregnant or in the six weeks after giving birth than white women in the country.

When she filed her claim, Petitfrere didnt realize the long odds she faced to win a settlement. The vast majority of service members or their loved ones who file Stayskal Act claims get rejected. And that included Stayskal himself, whose claim was denied earlier this year. He is appealing.

Just 17 out of 502 medical malpractice claims filed with the militarys three major branches have yielded financial settlements as of mid-2023, according to the Army, Navy and Air Force. Another 134 have been denied. The rest are being reviewed, are under or eligible for appeal, or have been withdrawn. The claims have sought a total of $3.77 billion in damages, but only $3.95 million has been given out in the 17 settlements.

The Pentagon could not provide a breakdown of the claims by hospital, and neither could spokespeople for the three major military branches. But, according to Natalie Khawam and Alan Ripka, lawyers whose firm represents Stayskal and at least 150 service members, they include allegations of malpractice at some of the militarys largest and most prominent hospitals, including Walter Reed National Medical Military Center in Bethesda, Md.

Petitfrere prepares to deliver her sermon at the United States Marine Corps Memorial Chapel in Quantico. The image of a saint was left over from a Catholic service earlier in the morning. (Amanda Andrade-Rhoades/for The Washington Post)

I was convinced that this was going to be a way of getting compensation to the service members and their families expeditiously, without the problems associated with lawsuits, which can go on forever, said Speier, who retired from Congress in January. Whats so painful is that the Stayskal Act was a huge win for our service members, but the administrative system that has been created has really sabotaged it.

Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) and several others in Congress agree that the new system isnt working. In June, they introduced the Healthcare Equality and Rights for Our Heroes Act, which would do the same thing the original version of the Stayskal Act was going to do  allow members of the armed forces to file lawsuits for injuries and deaths caused by improper medical care at military hospitals.

Congressman Issa believes a good idea like this one  that meets a pressing need and has a clear legislative purpose  can gain widespread support and become law, his spokesman, Jonathan Wilcox, said. Hes not concerned about any of his colleagues or the Defense Department that might not yet agree.

The military still opposes allowing service members to file malpractice lawsuits, a Defense Department spokeswoman said. Graham, a retired Air Force lawyer and the ranking Republican of the Senate Judiciary Committee, declined an interview request through a spokeswoman.

For Petitfrere, trying to navigate the current system was daunting because it was so opaque. She didnt know which experts were examining her case, if they had conflicts of interest, or if they had the right qualifications. Nor did she know the identities of all of the military officials who would vote on her case. Unlike in a lawsuit, she wasnt privy to the governments evidence.

She hired a medical expert, James Wheeler, an OB/GYN in Houston who has a law degree and frequently testifies in medical malpractice cases. After examining her medical records, he wrote a detailed report submitted in October 2021 with a damning conclusion: Due to the negligent healthcare provided Ms. Petitfrere at [Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune] on 12/19/2018, she lost her first pregnancy to preterm labor and delivery.

Wheeler found that Lejeunes medical staff failed to recognize Petitfreres risk factors for and symptoms of preterm labor. If the hospital had kept her under observation for the standard four to six hours  as Petitfrere desired, according to her claim  instead of sending her home, she probably would have been diagnosed with preterm labor and given proper treatment.

He noted that images taken at Lejeune on the day before her stillbirth showed the length of her cervix had shortened  in the span of three minutes  from 4.46 centimeters to 3.31 centimeters. A cervical length of less than 2.5 centimeters is linked to a greater risk of preterm birth for pregnancies between 16 and 24 weeks, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

The images are a hammer over the head  not a tap on the shoulder  indicating preterm labor, Wheeler told The Post in an interview.

Petitfreres preterm labor, he concluded in his report, was probably caused by increased contractions, which were possibly aggravated by fibroids. He attributed her successful pregnancies following the stillbirth to injectable progesterone, a hormone that calms the uterus.

He cited a doctor, a registered nurse, and a certified nurse midwife at Lejeune for their departures from standards of care.

Two months later, in December 2021, Kristina Schlieter, a tort claims attorney with the Navys Office of the Judge Advocate General in Norfolk, emailed Petitfreres lawyer, David Sheldon, saying that the militarys expert reviewed Wheelers report. The standard of care, she said, was met. A formal rejection letter of the malpractice claim, called an initial determination, was en route.

When Sheldon asked to see the written opinion of the expert that the government consulted  and to depose that expert  Schlieter denied his request.

Our investigations are done in expectation of litigation and are work product and privileged, Schlieter wrote him. Consequently, you are not getting any opinions we have and are not deposing anyone.

Petitfrere is still pursuing a case against the military, appealing a U.S. District Court decision dismissing her lawsuit. (Amanda Andrade-Rhoades/for The Washington Post)

Sheldon was stunned. The military, he said, appears to want two contradictory things: a law that bars service members from suing the military for medical malpractice  and the excuse not to share its expert reports out of fear of getting sued for medical malpractice.

When the Navys denial letter was issued, on Jan. 24, 2022, it offered no explanation.

The damages alleged did not result from any negligent act or omission on the part of an employee of the United States, Schlieter wrote. Accordingly, your clients claim is denied.

Schlieter did not reply to a list of emailed questions from The Post. Instead, the questions were forwarded to Patricia Babb, a Navy spokeswoman, who said the Navy does not comment on specific cases, due to privacy reasons.

In her letter, Schlieter said Petitfrere was welcome to appeal, the final step in the claims process. In April 2022, the Defense Departments Military Medical Malpractice Claims Appeals Board rejected her, too.

The letter, signed by the boards chair, Gregory Girard, contained no explanation. Nor was there a list of the people who examined and voted on Petitfreres case.

Girard did not reply to an emailed list of questions. The appeals board, Graves said, is made up of Defense Department attorneys who are experienced in medical malpractice and who have not played a prior role in the claim that they evaluate. He added that the Pentagon in August 2022 amended its regulations and now requires a meaningful explanation that includes the specific basis for the denial.

That change came too late for Petitfrere.

In June 2022, she took the unusual step of filing a lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, asking a federal judge to vacate the militarys initial denial of her claim and to send her case back to the Defense Health Agency for a new decision and potential appeals process.

Her lawsuit argued that the Defense Departments rejection of her claim was cursory and boilerplate. In a separate motion, her lawyer called the system an affront to what Congress intended when it changed the law so dramatically to allow for medical malpractice claims to be brought in such circumstances.

Last month, U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth dismissed her case. While he extended his sympathy to Petitfrere  for both her anguish at the stillbirth and her frustration at medical personnel not taking her concerns seriously  the judge said the law left him powerless to second-guess the Defense Departments decision.

Now, shes appealing Lamberths ruling. She isnt done seeking accountability for Primas.

Giselle, Solomon, Mercedes, Farrah and Louis Petitfrere at their home in Spotsylvania, Va. (Norma Fayak/NormaFayakPhotography.com)

Pain and prayers

Petitfrere was screaming and crying for help when she and Louis arrived at Onslow Memorial Hospital at 8:13 a.m. on Dec. 20, 2018. Her cervix was six centimeters dilated and completely thinned. The fetal membranes encasing her baby were bulging. Soon, they ruptured, depriving him of protection from the uterus forceful contractions.

At 10:59 a.m., a doctor delivered Primas.

I thought if they left the baby on my chest, Petitfrere said, he would come back to life.

Shed known that her age alone put her at higher risk during any pregnancy. A fertility assessment shed taken earlier that year indicated that she had fibroids, but the medical staff, she said, told her that their size and location should not thwart her chances of getting pregnant.

She also understood that fibroids might complicate her pregnancy. Over the years, she had come across articles showing that Black women suffer from fibroid pain more intensely than white women.

But Petitfrere had no trouble getting pregnant. On the day shed tested positive, she slipped the pregnancy stick under Louis pillow before they went to sleep. When he found the pink-and-white object under his head, he stared in awe at the double lines.

Everyone was elated, Louis said.

The day after the stillbirth, a Lejeune staffer called Petitfrere, who expressed concern about the care she received at Lejeune, and concern about her concerns being taken seriously, according to her medical records.

But the staffer also wrote in her notes that Petitfrere had stated that she is aware that her miscarriage could not have been prevented  an assertion that Petitfrere vigorously disputes.

They wrote that to protect themselves, Petitfrere declared. What I said was, I understand that sometimes you cant prevent a child from dying, but you can do all that you can do to prevent it from happening.

When they got home from Onslow, she and Louis cried and prayed. Their marriage, both said in interviews, grew stronger. She was granted a month of work leave.

A Bible verse, Jeremiah 29:11, brought them comfort when a trusted friend wrote it in a letter, dated on the day of Primas death: For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

A memory box for Primas Petitfrere sits on a shelf in his parents bedroom at their home in Spotsylvania, Va. (Amanda Andrade-Rhoades/for The Washington Post)

We were grieving our son, and trying unsuccessfully to conceive again, and grieving the fact that we did not know if I would ever be able to conceive again or carry a baby to term, she said, It was such a painful time. But that letter marked a turning point in our grief. We did not know if the Lords goodness would ever look like more children for us, but we did know the Lord was good and that we could trust Him, and so we did.

Four children, not three

Nowadays, Petitfrere shuttles between her job at Marine Corps Base Quantico and her home in Spotsylvania, Va. As deputy command chaplain, she presides over funerals, Sunday services, and retirement and promotion ceremonies.

When she and Louis relocated from North Carolina, they chose to live 50 miles away from the nearest military base, a distance that allowed her to seek medical care at closer civilian instead of military hospitals. Her three children born since Primass death were all delivered at Mary Washington Healthcare hospitals: Giselle, 3, Farrah, 2, and Solomon, nine months.

But every day, she and Louis grieve for Primas. Petitfrere is so traumatized by her treatment at Lejeune that she has considered leaving the military, fearing shell have to deploy and wont have the flexibility to see civilian physicians for herself or her three children.

I have loved the ministry with Marines and sailors. But there was no accountability. Nothing. Not even a proper, Im sorry. They wont say that because that would admit guilt, Petitfrere said. Its one thing to be in the military and you put your safety at risk from an enemy force in a war, but not from the people you work for who are supposed to protect you. I also could have died  and they would have let me. Its very hard as a chaplain to represent an organization that I do not trust.

I should have four children, not three.

Petitfrere and Louis keep a purple box on a shelf next to her side of the bed. Inside is the positive pink and white pregnancy test. Black and white ultrasounds of Primas. His tiny footprints taken on a white card. A small red urn, engraved with a silver flower. And a card that reads, Happy Birthday Primas.

I am grateful I was able to hold you and touch your little body, Louis wrote on the cards left side. I loved kissing you through mommys belly and speaking to you.

You are our first son. Happy birthday my love, Petitfrere wrote on the right side. We will see you again. Mommy loves you dearly. Speak to the Lord on our behalf, we need it.
A Space Force guardian participates in a town hall meeting Jan. 23, 2023, at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. The service's newest component is set to stand up at Ramstein in December and will serve both U.S. European Command and Africa Command. (Alexandra M. Longfellow/U.S. Air Force)

KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany  Ramstein Air Base will be the headquarters of a new Space Force service component for Europe and Africa, according to the Air Force.

A ceremony to stand up U.S. Space Forces Europe-Africa is planned for Dec. 8 at Ramstein, Air Force spokeswoman Capt. Jackie Lockett said in a statement Wednesday.

Gen. Chance Saltzman, chief of space operations, announced the new unit Tuesday during a keynote address at the Air Force Associations Air, Space and Cyber Conference in National Harbor, Md., Air and Space Forces magazine reported the same day.

The component will provide a subordinate space commander, space planning and employment expertise as well as space command and control specifically focused on the missions of U.S. European and Africa commands, Lockett said.

A cadre of Space Force members currently assigned to U.S. Air Forces Europe-Air Forces Africa will realign under the new organization, Lockett said, adding that there are no plans as of now to increase their numbers in 2024 beyond the initial 30 guardians or so.

Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman delivers a keynote speech at a symposium in Aurora, Colo., on March 7, 2023. Saltzman said guardians will be assigned to Stuttgart and Ramstein Air Base in Germany in support of U.S. European Command later this year. (Eric Dietrich/U.S. Air Force)

A need for interservice transfers isnt immediately expected, either, she said. Not all personnel under the new component will work from Ramstein. The service will send some assignments to Stuttgart, Lockett said.

The Germany-based organization will be the fourth Space Force component for a regional combatant command since the service was established in December 2019 as the sixth branch of the armed forces.

It joins Space Forces Indo-Pacific, with headquarters in Hawaii in support of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command; Spaces Forces Korea at Osan Air Base, in support of U.S. Forces Korea; and Space Forces Central in Tampa, Fla., to support U.S. Central Command.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin authorized the activation of the Europe-based space component on June 29, Lockett said.

Locating the new Space Force component at Ramstein puts it close to NATOs new space center, which operates from the blocs Allied Air Command on the base.

The space center was established about two years ago to coordinate space activities and share communications and satellite imagery with member countries.

At the 2021 Brussels summit, NATO acknowledged that attacks to, from or in space present a clear challenge to the security of the alliance and could lead to the invocation of Article 5, which would prompt collective defense measures by members.
Veterans Day 2014 at the Korean War Memorial in Washington, D.C. (Joe Gromelski/Stars and Stripes)

(Tribune News Service)  The giant black and white photographs of smiling young men flashed on the screens. Name, rank and branch of military service are listed below their smiles.

The names kept coming. No repeats.

Just one smiling face after another that often vanished before I could even register the full name  including my uncles.

The fleeting images and names were a fitting metaphor for the occasion as 546 people gathered in mid-August for the 2023 Korean/Cold War Annual Government Briefings hosted by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency.

The two-day gathering in a giant hotel ballroom, a stones throw from the Pentagon in Arlington, Va., was a chance for families with missing service members to remember brothers, uncles, fathers and cousins who served and were lost in a war largely forgotten  a chance to say their names out loud.

In total, 7,491 American service members who served in the Korean War are still unaccounted for.

When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again

Each attendee wore a nondescript name tag that included a second name, which held the common thread and linked the strangers in a shared grief.

After a short welcome, the event organizer opened the floor to remembrances as a dozen young men and women in their dressiest military uniforms scattered throughout the room with microphones.

Army Cpl. Leslie Franklin Greer is one of 7,491 still unaccounted for in the Korean War. Greer served in the U.S. Army. He is known to have gone missing the night of Aug. 31/Sept. 1, 1950, in the Nakdong River area of South Korea. (Contributed photo)

Going into this meeting, I had never met another person who had a family member still missing in action. The only story I knew was that of my mothers brother, Cpl. Leslie Franklin Greer, Army  the second name listed on my mothers and my name tag. His loss, which happened more than 14 years before I was born, defined more than is logical of my own worldview.

Uncle Frank left our familys rural Mississippi family farm on foot in the summer of 1950, singing the old hymn Precious Memories, as he walked away.

My mother remembers that day. She also remembers how, a few months later, when she was playing in the yard, her parents watching her from the front porch swing, when the woman who owned the store in town that received telegrams drove up in her car, with a piece of paper in hand. My mom, now 80, remembers that her parents didnt want to open the telegram and asked the lady to read it to them.

More than three years later, another telegram arrived saying my uncle had been, on Dec. 31, 1953, presumed to be dead.

My grandparents never received any further details about his loss or disappearance. Everything was classified. Therefore, being the hopeful sort, they spent the rest of their lives hoping that their son would come home  spending vast amounts of time sitting in that same swing, looking toward that same road, waiting for Frank to come home.

He never did.

My grandparents unreconciled grief hung over them the rest of their lives  and continues to hover over the rest of us even now. I remember sitting in my grandmothers lap, under my uncles smiling black and white photograph, and her rocking me back and forth and singing, When Johnny comes marching home again, hoorah, hoorah.

I liked the songs minor key and could tell, even as a child, that the old tune was like something bordering on sacred to my grandmother.

After the telegrams but long before I was born, my grandmother had a complete breakdown that resulted in a stay in the state mental hospital. Even now, our family rarely speaks of that, as though there is such shame attached. She eventually came back home.

When I knew her, she was as sweet and gentle as a human could be.

The way the sand stuck to his back

After the presentation of the flags and the Pledge of Allegiance to open the Korean/Cold War meeting, the DPAA organizers invited attendees to stand and tell remembrances of their loved ones.

A woman from Chicago spoke about her uncle, who was surrounded by thousands of Chinese soldiers. He was taken captive and died of starvation and dehydration a few months later, 12 miles south of the Chinese border. His body was never recovered.

An old man said he was a 10-year-old boy at his grandfathers house when they came to tell them his uncle was missing. I hope we can bury him before I die, he said.

A woman stood and said she was there to honor her brother, Dan, who was on a mission to stop a train and save the POWs on board the train. That didnt happen. He died in October 1950, she said. He was 18. I was 6. Danny Boy has always been our song. Dan was my first love and my first grief. He will not be forgotten. This war has not been forgotten.

Another woman stood and shared what her brothers last two days at home were like, from a little girls memory. We went to the beach for a picnic. I still remember how full of fried chicken my mothers basket was. Charles would try to sneak a piece of chicken to tease his mom. I remember that he played with me and the way the sand stuck to his back. I didnt understand the look in the adults eyes when we were at the beach. They had already lived through two sons going to World War II. The next day he was in full uniform and left.

Like every other man remembered that morning, her brother was never to be seen by his family again.

We share your tears and we also share your frustrations, said Kelly McKeague, director of the DPAA, after family members told of their loved ones still missing. This is called the annual government briefing. Im not here to brief you. Im here to have a conversation.

American hubris

I went into the meeting happy to be with my mother but still frustrated at the military for not doing anything to offer a modicum of respect toward my grandparents on the loss of their son.

Now we know that he went missing in action in the Nakdong River area in Southern Korea while on a reconnaissance mission sometime during the night of Aug. 31-Sept. 1, 1950.

My mom and I met with a case worker and Sgt. 1st Class Shane Cooper who took their time to explain everything they knew about my uncles disappearance. They even brought in Aelwen Wetherby, Ph.D., an Oxford-educated historian specializing in military history to tell us as much as she could about that night.

After all of our successes in World War II, we thought we would go in and China would say, OK, were out, Cooper explained to my mother and me.

Instead, the Chinese were rolling in with Soviet tanks, and young fresh-off-the-boat American GIs were outnumbered 12 to 1 and fighting with the rifles.

This day in history was just a slaughter, Cooper said. They were up against a battle-hardened Chinese army, seasoned Chinese warriors. It was an unwinnable situation and unfortunately one of the biggest examples of American hubris.

Afterward, the Chinese went in and stripped the bodies of identification. By the time the Americans got back in, the bodies were decaying, and our military covered the bodies in chemicals. Eventually, they gathered what was left and placed the remains in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, called the Punchbowl, in Hawaii.

The last full measure of devotion

For decades, the recovered unidentified remains of the American military in Korea rested in the Punchbowl. Once DNA research yielded the possibility of identifying some of the remains, the DPAA began exhuming remains and testing them. The DPAA currently has a budget of $130 million a year, which will rise to $190 million a year annually for the next five years, allowing the department to do more research, hire more historians and enable us to put shovels in the ground, according to McTeague.

The DPAA is also working closely with their South Korean counterparts, called MAKRI ( Ministry of National Defense Agency for Killed in Action Recovery Identification). In South Korea, MAKRI works to uncover remains and identify those recovered years ago, returning any to the U.S. that are found to be American.

The DPAA has no communication with North Korea. Those lost in that part of the world, at this point, have less chance to be recovered than those lost in South Korea.

At the Punchbowl, thus far, they have disinterred 852 remains to check for DNA.

McTeague said the work he and his colleagues are doing is the most purposeful thing weve done in our military or civil careers and went on to quote Abraham Lincolns Gettysburg Address:

...It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us  that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion  that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain...

This is our moral imperative. We have to do this, McTeague said.

c)2023 The Advocate, Baton Rouge, La.

Visit at theadvocate.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Beaches in Grado, Italy, are far less crowded in early September than they are in August when a majority of Italians take their holidays. (Kent Harris/Stars and Stripes)

The Italian coastline between Venice and Trieste is dotted with small towns that swell dramatically into seaside resorts during the summer months.

Separated from the rest by the Marano Lagoon, Grado isnt dramatically different from Caorle, Lido, Lignano and Jesolo. They all boast countless beach chairs along the Adriatic Sea and plenty of sun.

Sunbathers lounge in rented chairs while others cool off in the waters of the Adriatic Sea on one of the largest beaches in Grado, Italy. The city, a popular place for Germans and Austrians every summer, is just about an hours drive from Aviano Air Base. (Kent Harris/Stars and Stripes)

For those who arent sure whether they want to show a sunlight-starved body in a bikini, show no fear here, because the many tourists from Germany and Austria that come here certainly arent.

The Germanic visitors arent new to this area; Friuli-Venezia Giulia was once a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, after all.

Small crabs scurry along a rock that serves to protect a concrete pier extending into the Adriatic Sea from the city of Grado, Italy. (Kent Harris/Stars and Stripes)

And various tribes from north and east were moving through the area much earlier than that with the fall of the Roman Empire. Aquileia, formerly one of the Romans most important cities, is only a few miles away.

Dozens of boats are parked along a canal that separates much of the residential area of Grado from the city's commercial core. Probably the best places to park for visitors are in diagonal spaces along a small road just to the left of this view. (Kent Harris/Stars and Stripes)

Evidence of that is, in theory, on display in the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology of the Upper Adriatic. A Roman merchant vessel was found decades ago off the coast. But the museum is a frequent target of scorn from reports that say its never open, as was the case last time I was there.

Much of the citys core features multistory buildings for commercial and residential use that can be seen in just about any city in the region. A few of the hotels try to stand out architecturally.

The Italian city of Grado does offer multiple blocks of shady pedestrian streets for those who don't feel like staying at the beach. There are numerous restaurants and stores available. (Kent Harris/Stars and Stripes)

There are numerous pedestrian streets nicely lined with shady trees where tourists can check out clothes, souvenirs or dine on Italian seafood. Ristorante Al Viale gets high marks, albeit from a mostly non-Italian clientele.

A large concrete barrier helps protect the Italian city of Grado from storm surges of the Adriatic Sea. But it also serves as a walkway between the citys main beaches and a place for sunbathers to do their thing. (Kent Harris/Stars and Stripes)

But most dont come to Grado for the shade or the city blocks. That large concrete barrier serves as a walkway between two main beach areas. The beach to the west features hundreds of lounge chairs for rent.

A few more sophisticated ones have nicer chairs and curtains. Daily prices range from 5 euros for a sun chair to 6 euros for an umbrella, to 40 euros for a curtained gazebo. But the real indicator about the nature of Grado is that price plans exist not only for weeks or even months, but seasons.

There is generally plenty of sun over the city of Grado, Italy. But don't expect to see bikini-clad ladies in capes flying over the place very often. This vintage sign made of mosaic tiles comes from an area of Friuli Venezia-Giulia famous for such works. (Kent Harris/Stars and Stripes)

So, while merchants and residents in nearby Venice complain of day-tripping hordes of tourists, that doesnt appear to be a concern here.

A day trip from Aviano Air Base remains very viable, though. And for those looking for long days of sightseeing, ancient mosaics at Aquileia and the fortress city of Palmanova  which also boasts an outlet mall  are just minutes away.

There are lots of boats parked in a few canals around the city of Grado. Almost all of them appear to be smaller pleasure boats. But there are some fishing vessels that help support the restaurants that dot the Italian city. (Kent Harris/Stars and Stripes)

harris.kent@stripes.com Twitter: @kharris4stripes

On the QT

Directions: Grado is just more than an hours drive from Aviano. Take the A28 to the A4 autostrada and head towards Trieste. Take the Palmanova exit and then the SR252 (through Aquileia) to Grado.

Times: Beaches are generally closed when the sun goes down. Other than some restaurants and hotels, much of the city follows suit.

Cost: Theres pay parking places in spots, but there are free places near the large canal that separates the commercial and residential sectors. Turn left at the second traffic circle, cross the bridge, drive a block and turn right to find a narrow road. Park uphill facing the canal.

Information: The tourist office is at Campo Porta Nuova No. 26, Angolo Piazza XXVI Maggio. Phone: (39) 0431 877111; Email: info.grado@promoturismo.fvg.it; Online: facebook.com/grado.turismo
Autumn leaves are a powerful lure for tourists at Tofukuji temple in Kyoto. (iStock)

Cherry blossoms in spring; fall colors in autumn. So runs a popular Japanese adage passed down through numerous generations.

Indeed, such thinking may underpin the semi-obsessive desire among many Japanese to soak up the beauty of fully blooming cherry trees in springtime, and visually wallow in panoramic vistas brimming with reds and golds in the fall.

Classic Japanese literature provides clues as to when such behavior began, with myriad poems and stories touching upon the changing seasons and their associated landscapes. As autumn has already started in Japan, its an appropriate time to explore the phenomenon of autumn leaf-viewing.

According to Naoto Yoshikai  specially appointed professor of Japanese literature at Doshisha Womens College of Liberal Arts the word momijimi (autumn foliage-viewing) first appears in The Tale of Genji, written by Murasaki Shikibu in the early 11th century.

The final part of the story contains 10 chapters called Uji Jujo, in which most of the story is set in Uji in the southern Kyoto suburbs. One passage reads, Niou-no-miya [Prince Niou] wished to see the foliage during the autumn season, so he waited for a good opportunity to visit.

In the tale, Niou-no-miya was the third prince of the then emperor, and the grandson of the protagonist, Hikaru Genji. Like Genji, Niou-no-miya is described as being beautiful and a womanizer.

Shui Wakashu (Collection of Gleanings of Japanese Poems), which dates from the same period as The Tale of Genji, contains a poem about an overnight trip to Yamato (present-day Nara Prefecture) to appreciate autumn foliage.

Classical literature reveals that aristocrats of the Heian period (794-late 12th century) traveled to Yamato and Kawachi (present-day eastern Osaka Prefecture) to view cherry blossoms and fall leaves.

In the early Heian period, Kyoto had no well-known autumn foliage-viewing locations, Yoshikai said. Later, however, Sagano, Arashiyama and Mt. Ogura became noted for their colorful fall leaves.

Sagano achieved fame when Emperor Daigo  who reigned in the first half of the 10th century  visited the area to enjoy its seasonal hues, Yoshikai said.

Poems that shone a literary light on locations with notable autumn leaves often became very well-known, too.

Tofukuji temple in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, has come to be known as Kyotos most popular leaf-viewing location, attracting up to 35,000 visitors each day during the peak autumn season.

Many flock to Tsutenkyo bridge to enjoy a panoramic view featuring about 2,000 red- and yellow-tinged trees that span a ravine within the temples precincts. However, the temple was highly regarded as a cherry blossom-viewing spot until the Muromachi period (1336-1573), according to the temple.

While now the most popular leaf-viewing location in Kyoto, Tofukuji temple used to be highly regarded as a cherry blossom-viewing spot until the Muromachi period (1336-1573), according to the temple. (iStock)

In 1408, a painter-priest named Mincho created a 12-meter-long, 6-meter-wide painting titled Buddhas entry into Nirvana, depicting the Buddhas death.

Ashikaga Yoshimochi, the fourth shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate, was reportedly impressed with the painting, saying to Mincho, As a reward, you can ask me for anything you want.

In response, Mincho reportedly replied: There are too many cherry trees in the temples precincts. They attract an overabundance of people who enjoy looking at the cherry blossoms, thus hindering ascetic practices. Id like you to ban such blooms.

After hearing this, Yoshimochi is believed to have ordered the felling of all cherry trees in the temples grounds. The cherry trees were subsequently replaced by maple trees. It is said that the temples first priest Enni planted a trident maple tree in the Kamakura period (late 12th century to 1333) that he brought back from China during the Song Dynasty.

The temple later planted more Japanese maples around the original tree, and there are now thought to be about 20 present-day descendants of the original trident maple.

I wonder what Mincho might say if he could see tens of thousands of people from Japan and overseas flocking to the temple to revel in the rich colors of the autumn leaves.
TAKNIS, Libya  Up to 20,000 people are feared dead in Libyas devastated east, with search and relief efforts ongoing Thursday, four days after the coast was pounded by Storm Daniel, submerging neighborhoods and pulling countless residents out to sea.

Abdulmenam al-Ghaithi, mayor of Derna, the city hardest hit by the storm, told the Saudi channel al-Arabiya that he believed the number of dead was between 18,000 and 20,000, based on the number of neighborhoods destroyed.

Efforts are focused now on accounting for the thousands considered missing.

Husam Abdel Gawi, 31, a civil servant in Derna who was doing volunteer rescue work, said in a phone interview that teams of people were combing the city for the dead, fearing that the bodies could pose environmental and health risks.

The focus of efforts is now on burials, so we dont subject the city to a new disaster, he said.

But the storms victims were becoming harder to find. The bodies are in the seawater, and under rubble. So we need specialized rescue teams. Abdel Gawi said there were few such teams - only two from overseas, including from Turkey, had made it to Derna so far.

He said men were carrying the bodies to trucks to be transported to areas outside Derna, where trenches were dug and the corpses were  regrettably, he said  buried in mass graves.

Othman Abdul Jalil, minister of health for Libyas eastern government, said 3,000 bodies had been interred so far in sites outside of Derna. Another 2,000 have yet to be buried, he told al-Arabiya, adding that teams of divers are combing the sea for more victims.

Kamal al-Siyawi, the head of a commission responsible for locating the missing, beseeched citizens to mark the locations of the cemeteries of the unidentified, in remarks to a Libyan channel, to help the government record the deaths and take the necessary samples required for identification.

Addressing the international community, Osama Hammad, prime minister of the eastern-based government in this divided nation, said the area is in dire need of specialists to retrieve the dead. The area needs to be closed off completely, confined completely, he told Libyan TV channel al-Masar in the early hours of Thursday.

International health and relief organizations have said that dead bodies left behind after natural disasters do not cause epidemics. But they can, in some cases, cause environmental hazards, including by contaminating drinking water.

There are conflicts in the number ... of deaths, but what matters is that the deaths number in the thousands, said Ahmed Zouiten, the Libya representative from the World Health Organization. Speaking to TV channel al-Hurra late Wednesday night, he said the WHOs count of corpses recovered so far was 3,460.

The three of the regions hospitals are completely out of service; several of the remaining ones are only partially operational.

This disaster is of mythic proportions, he said. A disaster by all measures. Now, the retrieval of the corpses is important, as is burying the corpses before they disintegrate ... and cause some environmental issues.

There are also tremendous numbers of sick people who have been displaced and are in immediate need of medical attention, he added.

The International Committee for the Red Cross said it had distributed 6,000 body bags to help authorities extend dignified treatment to the dead. Yann Fridez, head of the ICRCs Libya delegation, said in a statement that a wave approximately 23 feet high wiped out buildings and washed infrastructure into the sea.

Roads have been seriously degraded, the statement added, hindering humanitarian efforts to reach the flood-hit east. Unexploded ordnance and abandoned munition stores in Derna also pose a threat to those in the city.

The United Nations World Meteorological Organization said the scale of the tragedy would have been avoidable if proper early-warning services had been in place. No evacuation orders were issued before the storm struck the area Sunday night, even though it had already left a trail of destruction in Greece, Turkey and Bulgaria.

Had there been normal public services available in Libya, they could have issued a warning and also the emergency management authorities would have been able to carry out evacuation of the people, and we could have avoided most of the human casualties, Petteri Taalas, the head of the WMO, told reporters.

Dernas disaster came when floodwaters poured down the hills surrounding the city, burst through two dams and washed away about a quarter of the inhabited area. Days later, much of it is still underwater.

Abdel Gawi, one of the volunteer rescue workers, said on the day of the flood, water burst into his building from every crevice. Cars and dead bodies barged into the house. We opened the doors and the water filled the floor, so we moved to the second floor. The water followed.

Outside, the corpses were in the hundreds. You open your door and see hundreds; they floated into the buildings from doors, from windows.

The scale of the disaster was apparent some 85 miles outside Derna on Thursday, where the landscape was still marked by stagnant floodwaters clogging fields. Cars caked in red silt were leaving the flood zone as dozens of aid trucks and excavators from across the country headed the opposite direction into the affected region.

For years, the country has been divided between two warring rivals: a government in the east and one in the west. After the flood, the United Nations-backed western government said it had dispatched convoys of aid to the east. It instructed a cruise ship to moor at Derna port for at least 60 days to provide shelter for rescue teams working in the area.

Dadouch reported from Beirut and Fahim reported from Istanbul. Miriam Berger in Washington contributed to this report.
Russian President Vladimir Putin meets with Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz at the Kremlin in Moscow on June 14, 2023. (Mikhail Metzel, Sputnik, AFP via Getty Images/TNS)

In an apparent policy reversal, Cubas ambassador to Russia said the Cuban government would not stop its citizens from enlisting in the Russian army to fight in Ukraine, despite earlier statements by the islands authorities reporting the arrest of 17 people involved in recruiting Cubans for the Russian army and assurances that Cuba was firmly against such activities.

We have nothing against Cubans who just want to sign a contract and legally take part in this operation with the Russian army, the Cuban ambassador to Moscow, Julio Antonio Garmendia Pena, told Russian state news agency Ria on Thursday. But we oppose illegality and these operations that have nothing to do with the legal area.

Following dramatic testimony in late August by two young Cuban men who said they were scammed into joining the Russian military, the Cuban government said it had uncovered and was dismantling a human trafficking ring operating from Russia in order to incorporate Cuban citizens living there and even some living in Cuba, into the military forces that participate in military operations in Ukraine.

At the time, the Cuban Foreign Ministry said in a statement that Cuba has a firm and clear historical position against mercenarism and that it was acting firmly against those who within the national territory participate in any form of human trafficking for mercenarism or recruitment purposes so that Cuban citizens may raise weapons against any country.

Last Thursday, Cubas Interior Ministry said it had arrested 17 people involved in these activities, including three authorities believed were the organizers of the ring. That same day, Ukrainian citizen-journalist website InformNapalm published leaked documents showing the Russian military was behind recent efforts to recruit about 200 Cuban mercenaries to fight in Ukraine, mainly coming from the island.

The Cuban ambassador, Garmendia, called the Cubanswho were arrested swindlers who had broken the law. Apart from the three recruiters, most of the detainees were Cubans who wanted to enlist in the Russian Army, according to Interior Ministry officials.

We are talking about bad people who, on the basis of such an important issue as a military operation, as relations between our countries, want to earn money, want to put money in their pocket and engage in illegal activities, the diplomat said. He did not clarify if the recruiting of Cubans by the Russian is no longer considered as mercenarism, a crime under Cuban law.

A U.S State Department official said the administration is concerned by reports alleging young Cubans have been deceived and recruited to fight for Russia in its brutal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russias need to use deceit to attract foreign fighters indicates both its military weakness and its disregard for human life.

We continue to monitor this situation closely, the official said.

The Cuban government has said it is not involved in the war in Ukraine and rejected allegations that is complicit in the recruitment effort by Russia, a close political and military ally. But Cuban activists and Ukrainian politicians have called into question Cubas denial.

The Cuban communist regime pretends that it has nothing to do with this human trafficking, the chairman of the Ukrainian parliaments committee on foreign relations, Oleksandr Merezhko, said on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. In reality, this totalitarian regime is on the side of the aggressor.

2023 Miami Herald.

Visit miamiherald.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Vladivostok during a visit on April 25, 2019. (Presidential Administration of Russia)

SEOUL  North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will visit an aviation factory and inspect Russias Pacific naval fleet on Friday and Saturday, continuing his focus on military issues on his third day in the Russian Far East.

After a day of warm words and toasts on Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin had accepted Kims invitation to make a reciprocal visit to North Korea in the future, the Norths official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Thursday.

In the meantime, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov would visit Pyongyang for more talks next month, the Kremlin said.

The pair of international outcasts has been putting on a show of support and camaraderie this week in a clear rebuff to U.S.-led efforts to isolate Putin over his invasion of Ukraine and Kim over his pursuit of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles.

Putin on Wednesday welcomed Kim to the Vostochny Cosmodrome spaceport, where they held almost five hours of talks and had dinner. They are likely to have discussed arms sales from North Korea to Russia and food aid for North Korea.

Kim is now traveling to the city of Komsomolsk-on-Amur to visit military and civilian aviation factories, the Kremlin said. Japans Kyodo News agency, citing unnamed sources, said the factory that Kim was expected to visit is one that manufactures Sukhoi fighter jets.

The North Korean leader will then travel to Vladivostok to inspect the Pacific Fleet.

Kims visits to space, aviation and military facilities in Russia point to potential areas of cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow following the leaders meeting.

The Kremlin said cooperation between Russia and North Korea on sensitive subjects should not be made public.

Kim and Putin pledged to work together to frustrate the imperialists military threat and provocation, among other shared political, economic and military goals, the KCNA said.

Kim vowed to work out a a far-reaching plan for the DPRK-Russia relations in the new era, the state news agency said, using the acronym for North Koreas official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea.

He invited Putin to visit North Korea at a convenient time, it said. Putin accepted the invitation with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history and tradition of the Russia-DPRK friendship.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday that no visit by Putin to North Korean has been planned.

Wednesdays meeting between Kim and Putin follows months of U.S. intelligence assessments that Russia is looking to obtain weaponry from North Korea to replenish its dwindling supplies for the war in Ukraine, while Pyongyang is seeking to boost its beleaguered economy and get Moscow to share advanced technology for its satellite and nuclear programs.

North Korea is believed to have a large stockpile of dated artillery shells and rockets that would be compatible with Soviet and Russian weapons systems used in Ukraine, as well as a production capacity that would help Russia maintain its high ammunition burn rate as the Kremlin seeks to scale up domestic production.

Russia used up to 11 million shells in Ukraine last year, according to recent Western estimates, and is set to fire 7 million more this year, said Jack Watling, senior research fellow for land warfare at the Royal United Services Institute, a British think tank.

A potential arms deal would violate U.N. sanctions that Russia previously supported as a member state and a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council.

Neither Pyongyang nor Moscow mentioned any discussions about arms supply at the summit, although Washington continues to accuse the two leaders of pursuing a such deal.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said Wednesday that it was troubling to see Kim pledging full support for Russia and its security interests. We have reason to believe they were going to discuss military transfers that is quite troubling and would potentially be in violation of multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions.

He said the Biden administration will not hesitate to impose additional sanctions over a weapons transfer between North Korea and Russia.
Taiwanese troops patrol the southern end of the Taiwan Strait, Jan. 12, 2023. (Seth Robson/Stars and Stripes)

Chinas military sent scores of ships and planes near Taiwan for a fifth day Thursday, its largest show of force since April, according to Taiwans Ministry of National Defense.

Between 6 a.m. Wednesday and 6 a.m. Thursday, Taiwans military monitored 68 Chinese aircraft and 10 ships in the waters and airspace around the island, the ministry said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Forty of the aircraft crossed the Tawain Straits median line and entered the islands air defense identification zone from the southwest and southeast, the ministry said.

Farther west, the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong, two frigates, two destroyers and a support ship were in the Philippine Sea on Wednesday, approximately 400 miles south of Miyako Island, Japans Joint Staff said in a news release that day.

Japans military observed fighter jets and helicopters taking off and landing on the carrier, the Joint Staff said.

Thursday marked the largest number of Chinese aircraft operating near Taiwan since April 11, during a three-day series of drills that encircled the island. Taipei said it tracked 91 Chinese aircraft and a dozen ships that day.

The April exercise, which included live-fire drills and simulated strikes on Taiwanese targets, was Beijings response to Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wens meeting with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in California the week prior. Between Aug. 8 and April 11, Taiwans Defense Ministry reported at least 70 aircraft and nine ships near the island each day.

Chinas air and naval forces have kept up pressure on Taiwan since Sunday. The islands forces tracked 35 aircraft on Wednesday; 27 aircraft and 13 ships on Tuesday; 22 aircraft and 20 ships on Monday; and 26 aircraft and 13 ships on Sunday, according to a series of reports from Taiwans Defense Ministry.

The scale of Chinese military activities has constantly increased this year and is intended as a political deterrent and a demonstration of Chinas level of readiness, Norah Huang, director for international relations at the Prospect Foundation, a security and foreign affairs think tank in Taipei, told Stars and Stripes in an email Thursday.

Beijings recent actions are likely a response to a joint U.S.-Canada transit of the Taiwan Strait on Saturday, Huang said by email Tuesday.

China considers the 110-mile-wide Taiwan Strait its territorial waters and views the functionally democratic island as a breakaway province that must be reunified with the mainland.

Beijing is unwaveringly determined to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity and considers Taiwan to be an inalienable part of its territory, China Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a news conference Wednesday. A readout of her remarks was posted online by the ministry.

Relevant sides should immediately stop such provocative acts and stop being a troublemaker disrupting peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, she said, referring to the U.S.-Canada transit of the strait.

Stars and Stripes reporter Hana Kusumoto contributed to this report.
Dozens of Bradley Fighting Vehicles are loaded onto German rail cars in Mannheim, Germany, March 14, 2022. (Allan Laggui/U.S. Army)

Weapons and ammunition that U.S. soldiers are moving across Europe and transferring to Ukraine at a logistics site in Poland risk being lost or stolen because security measures arent being observed consistently, a Pentagon investigation has found.

In one lapse, a batch of Bradley Fighting Vehicles with machine guns inside was mistakenly left unguarded at the site, according to a Defense Department Inspector General report.

The watchdog agencys previously classified findings were released publicly on Monday.

American service members transport all of it to depots on NATOs eastern flank, where its transferred to Ukrainian trucks and trains.

Army Sgt. Ryan Townsend helps prepare a Bradley Fighting Vehicle for overseas transport in North Charleston, S.C., Jan. 25, 2023. More than 60 Bradleys were shipped by U.S. Transportation Command as part of the American military aid package to Ukraine. (Oz Suguitan/U.S. Transportation Command)

The IG investigation focused solely on military aid being handed over at a major Polish logistics hub before it is moved by rail into Ukraine. The locations name was redacted in the report.

But it also warned that personnel are not consistently adhering to security controls, which exist partly to prevent arms, ammunition and explosives from getting into the hands of criminals and terrorist groups.

The other was a transfer of 14 M2A2 Bradleys, 12 howitzers and seven M992 ammunition carriers from commercial line haul trucks, according to the report.

U.S. soldiers unload M777A2 Howitzer ammunition bound for Ukraine at the 7th Army Training Commands Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, in November. (Markus Rauchenberger/U.S. Army)

The noncommissioned officer in charge of the truck convoy was unaware that machine guns were being transported in the Bradleys, the report said.

The officer told investigators that the team had not verified the cargo before departing from an installation in Mannheim, Germany, and therefore could not account for the weapons by serial number, which is required by protocol.

Military guards who arrived with some of the Bradleys at the railyard remained with the equipment overnight but returned to their home station the following morning, leaving no armed guards to maintain surveillance and checks on these vehicles containing weapons, which is also against protocol, the investigators found.

Two Polish police officers in a van were seen patrolling the site as part of the railyards normal security, and nothing was reported missing, according to the report.

But in June, several boxes of ammunition were stolen from a train without the guard forces knowledge. Although that incident was outside the scope of the inspector generals investigation, it nevertheless illustrates the vulnerability of sensitive weapons and ammunition to theft, the report said.

Meanwhile on Tuesday, the DOD Inspector General announced the arrival of a senior official at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv and said more staffers will soon be sent to monitor U.S. security assistance to Ukraine.

It marks the first time the watchdog agency will have personnel based in the county since Russias full-scale invasion.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks during a news conference at the State Department on Aug.15, 2023, in Washington, D.C. (Kevin Dietsch, Getty Images/TNS)

(Tribune News Service)  The United States and Iran are set to exchange prisoners as early as Monday under an agreement thats seen as a first step toward fresh talks to reimpose limits on the countrys nuclear program, according to people familiar with the matter.

The people, who asked not to be identified discussing private deliberations, said the exact date of the swap isnt yet set but its likely to be on Sept. 18, a day before world leaders convene in New York for the annual meeting of the United Nations General Assembly.

The deal, which also saw the U.S. allow Iran to access $6 billion in funds that were frozen in South Korea, has already opened President Joe Biden up to criticism that hes encouraging more hostage taking and shouldnt be doing any sort of deal with the regime.

As we have said from the outset, what is being pursued here is an arrangement wherein we secure the release of five wrongfully held Americans, National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said in a statement. This remains a sensitive and ongoing process. While this is a step in the process, no individuals have been or will be released into U.S. custody this week.

The Biden administration has rejected claims by Iran that there will be no restrictions on $6 billion in oil sales proceeds that will be freed up as part of a prisoner swap, insisting that Iran will be allowed to use the funds solely for humanitarian purposes.

As part of the pending deal to swap five Americans held by Iran with five Iranians in U.S. custody, Secretary of State Antony Blinken notified Congress on Monday of a waiver that will assure German, Irish, Qatari, South Korean and Swiss banks that they can transfer the $6 billion from South Korea without fear of running afoul of US sanctions.

Administration officials have also pushed back on the criticism of the deal. One person familiar with the matter said the $6 billion was revenue that Iran earned under the Trump administration, when the U.S. granted waivers to countries including China, India, Japan and Turkey, among others  to keep buying Iranian oil without facing penalties.

The U.S. hopes that the prisoner swap will clear the way to broader diplomacy aimed at imposing restrictions on Irans nuclear programs. The U.S. acknowledges it wont be politically viable to restore the 2015 nuclear deal that set bounds on Tehrans uranium-enrichment and which President Donald Trump abandoned in 2018.

2023 Bloomberg L.P.

Visit bloomberg.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Army Gen. Charles Flynn, commanding general of the U.S. Army Pacific, receives a salute from troops at the Hawaii Army National Guard Puunene Armory, Maui, Aug. 15, 2023. (Tonia Ciancanelli/U.S. Army)

WASHINGTON  The commander of U.S. Army Pacific said Wednesday that strong land forces  not just air and naval strength  will be crucial in defending allies in the Indo-Pacific region and deterring Chinese aggression in the coming years.

Gen. Charles Flynn emphasized the importance of ground troops during a conference call to discuss existing challenges in the region and potential obstacles to implementing the commands vision for the future.

I contend that [the Indo-Pacific region] is not an air and maritime theater. It is a joint theater, Flynn said. There is a natural tendency to look at the map and think you can solve this with air and maritime power alone. My thinking on this is that the land power network and armies out here are an essential part of the solution.

The U.S. Army Pacifics newly released 2023 Vision Book outlines many of the challenges facing U.S. allies and interests in the Indo-Pacific region, which includes about three dozen countries across Asia and the Pacific and Indian oceans, including South Korea, Japan, China, India and Australia.

Flynn acknowledged air and naval forces are vital to protecting the region, but he added that the land component has often been overlooked.

In my view, the security architecture that actually binds this region together is the armies, he said. These nations have large armies, they dont have large navies and air forces.

There is a unique on-the-ground fingertip feel that you get when youre out in the villages  out in the jungle, out in the mountains and operating amongst the people, Flynn said. Do you want to know whats going on inside these countries? Ask somebody from the land force, because we are in these countries for extended periods of time. And I think we have a deeper understanding of whats actually happening.

Flynn said Army Pacifics vision is in step with the Pentagons National Defense Strategy, which was released in the fall and identifies China as the top U.S. pacing challenge. The Defense Department and President Joe Bidens administration have been alarmed by various actions by China recently, such as the new security agreement that the country reached in early 2022 with the Solomon Islands, a small nation about 1,100 miles northeast of Australia. And there are many other small island countries in the region that could also be vulnerable to Chinese influence.

The recent security agreement between the Solomon Islands and [China] underscores increased competition for influence in these island nations, according to the Army Pacifics vision statement.

The Indo-Pacific also includes Taiwan, which China claims as a breakaway territory. The United States has long had a strong unofficial relationship with Taiwan and has often butted heads with China about the island. The U.S. ignored threats from China, for example, when then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., visited Taiwan in 2022.

[China] is increasingly turning to [its military] as an instrument of statecraft as it adopts more coercive and aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific region, the Army Pacifics Vision Book states. Having purportedly achieved its 2020 modernization goal, the [Chinese army] now sets its sights to 2027 with a goal to accelerate the integrated development of mechanization, informatization and intelligentization of [Chinas] armed forces. If realized, this 2027 objective could give the [Chinese army] capabilities to be a more credible military tool for [China] to wield as it pursues Taiwan unification.

Flynn acknowledged 2027 could be a key year for President Xi Jinping, Chinas leader for more than a decade, to make influential decisions about Taiwan  partly due to his advancing age.

In my view, there are decisions he is likely going to have to make [at about that year], Flynn said of the 70-year-old Xi. His tenure in his current role would likely require him to be thinking about what his legacy is going to be, [and] he has stated publicly and unequivocally that he intends to unify [with Taiwan].

Flynn, who has been the commander of Army Pacific for more than two years, is a graduate of the U.S. Naval War College, where he earned a masters degree in national security and strategic studies. He is the younger brother of Michael Flynn, who was former President Donald Trumps national security adviser for 22 days in 2017 before resigning amid reports that he misled the White House about his contacts with Russias ambassador to the United States. After his resignation, Michael Flynn later pleaded guilty to a felony count of making false statements to the FBI.

Gen. Charles Flynn also said Wednesday that he wasnt overly concerned about the impact meetings between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un could have on the Indo-Pacific region.

Kim traveled to eastern Russia this week to meet with Putin. During talks Wednesday, the North Korean leader seemed to endorse Moscows ongoing war in Ukraine. He said hes certain Russia will emerge victorious in the fight to punish the evil forces that ambitiously pursues hegemony and expansion, according to Russias state-run TASS news agency. The Russian news agency also reported Kim wants to deepen bilateral ties with Moscow and Putin reminded Kim that the Soviet Union came to Pyongyangs aid during its war against U.S.-aligned South Korea in the 1950s.

They get to choose meetings between senior officials at their discretion, Flynn said. So, if they choose to meet, then they get to do that.
Fire-retardant foam was unintentionally released in an aircraft hangar at Travis Air Force Base in California on Sept. 24, 2013, says the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service. Federal research linking forever chemicals to testicular cancer confirms what U.S. military personnel long suspected. But as they seek testing for PFAS exposure, many wonder what to do with the results. Theres no medical treatment yet. (Ken Wright/U.S. Air Force)

(Tribune News Service)  A U.S. military firefighter for 32 years, Kurt Rhodes trained and performed his duties with aqueous film forming foam, or AFFF  a highly effective fire suppressant that he never knew contained PFAS chemicals, now known to be harmful to human health.

New federal research links testicular cancer in U.S. service members to the forever chemicals, adding to a growing body of evidence of the dangers they pose. Rhodes lives in fear that he, like many of his colleagues, will get sick.

Its kind of like a Russian roulette, he said. Are you going to get the cancers or are you going to be one of the lucky ones who doesnt?

The chemicals in the firefighting foam are suspected to have polluted more than 700 active and former military installations as well as thousands of towns across the U.S., potentially exposing millions of people to long-term health risks, say the scientists and public health experts who study the chemicals. The contamination was the result of industrial spills, dumping and firefighting.

The new testicular cancer findings, as well as new requirements to fund PFAS testing in some communities, have firefighters like Rhodes on edge.

Many have sought recently developed blood serum tests to determine their cumulative levels of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. But its unclear what they should do with those test results, given there are no medical treatments to remove PFAS from the body.

It is stressful, especially when you know there is a chance of cancer, said former Air National Guard firefighter Jeffrey Warrick, noting he has a worrisome skin condition he believes was caused by PFAS exposure. It worsens in warm weather, he said, and freaks me out.

In 2020, Congress required the Department of Defense to offer active-duty military firefighters blood tests for PFAS, thousands of compounds dubbed forever chemicals because they accumulate in the human body and dont break down in the environment. Some states followed suit or even preceded the federal legislative action.

Indiana passed a bill effective July 1 that establishes a biomonitoring pilot program to provide PFAS blood testing for 1,000 of the states firefighters. New Hampshire requires insurers to cover PFAS blood tests, and a bill introduced in Maine this year would do the same.

But while the tests have been a major step forward in understanding the scope of the issue across the country, medical providers often arent sure how to interpret the results.

Breaking the code

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine issued preventive medical guidance last year for those whose test results confirm a level of PFAS chemicals in their blood meriting concern.

The national academies recommended that patients with readings between 2 and 20 nanograms per milliliter limit additional exposure and screen for high cholesterol, breast cancer, and, if pregnant, high blood pressure. At 20 ng/mL and above, the report recommends further assessment.

But even with these published guidelines, finding doctors knowledgeable about interpreting the blood test results and inferring the possible health effects of PFAS exposure can be slow going.

Kevin Ferrara, a former Air Force firefighter who now advocates for military personnel and firefighters, said they simply want their physicians to be more educated on PFAS contamination and its health consequences.

Firefighters really need to concentrate on their jobs, not How do I decipher my blood tests? Ferrara said. Physicians should have a basic understanding of PFAS, and they simply dont.

To muddy matters further: With so many types of PFAS, not all of them show up in the blood tests. Some compounds manifest elsewhere, such as in organ tissue or other parts of the blood, said Neil McMillan, the International Association of Fire Fighters director of science and research.

These PFAS blood panels are complicated, McMillan said. The results you get back may not show the full picture of your body burden.

Graham Peaslee, a University of Notre Dame professor who studies PFAS, said he knows of seven civilian and military firefighters who have had a rare form of brain cancer, glioblastoma, three of whom resided in South Bend, Indiana.

The aggressive disease has only sparsely been studied and its causes are not understood, although scientists suspect environmental exposures may be to blame.

Whats really interesting is its [about] a one-in-a-million disease, Peaslee said. There arent 7 million firefighters in this country. How was that possible?

State Rep. Maureen Bauer, a Democrat who authored the Indiana PFAS testing bill and represents South Bend, said the program was inspired in part by those firefighters who died of brain cancer.

Blood testing is providing one more useful bit of information, Bauer said. If youre exposed, but you dont know what your levels are, if you have fertility issues, high blood pressure, thyroid problems, that could all go back to your blood levels.

Guarding against risks

Ned Calonge, who is the associate dean for public health practice of the Colorado School of Public Health and co-authored the national academies report, said that taking proactive measures in communities with known high exposure, such as among firefighters and military service members and their families who lived on bases, is particularly important.

It depends on how much different states have paid attention to it, Calonge said. I wouldnt say that weve advanced very far in terms of clinician education in the area of the PFAS exposure.

Congress passed legislation last year that gave medical benefits and disability compensation to federal firefighters who develop one or more of 16 health conditions within 10 years of service. The illnesses include 14 types of cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke that occur within 24 hours of engaging in their jobs.

But firefighters want to learn how to prevent these illnesses from taking hold. Because PFAS chemicals accumulate in the body, older people typically have higher levels than younger people. Men tend to have higher levels than women, which researchers attribute to menstruation helping eliminate the chemicals from the body.

Over time, if people limit exposure, PFAS levels in the blood can slowly drop as the chemicals are excreted. For example, PFOS, the legacy chemical found in AFFF thats no longer used, has a half-life in humans of 4.8 years. While researchers estimate that everyone has some level of PFAS in their bodies, Calonge said, people with levels above 20 ng/mL in their blood should particularly avoid additional exposure.

Although full avoidance may be nearly impossible  these chemicals can be found in nonstick cookware, industrial lubricants, cosmetics, and even food wrappers  those with high amounts of known exposure should consider filtering their drinking water and removing stain-resistant carpet, water-repellent clothing, and other PFAS-containing household goods from their homes, Calonge said.

Experts point to reverse osmosis filters under a kitchen sink or at the tap as the most effective way to remove PFAS from drinking water, but the systems can be expensive, putting them out of reach for some Americans. Some tabletop water filters seem pretty effective, too. The American National Standards Institute and NSF have certified water filters from 15 manufacturers for the reduction of select PFAS chemicals.

Holding out hope

While there are no known treatments for the buildup of PFAS chemicals in ones body, an Australian study published last year found that firefighters with high levels of PFAS reduced their levels by 10% over a year when they donated blood every 12 weeks and by 30% if they donated plasma every six weeks.

Jeff Burgess, a University of Arizona Health Sciences researcher, seeks to duplicate the findings and take it a step further  determining whether a reduction in PFAS levels yields lower cardiovascular and cancer risk.

The plan is to enroll 1,500 firefighters in the study who will donate blood or plasma for a year, monitoring for DNA methylation cancer biomarkers.

As for the ethics of letting firefighters with known PFAS contamination contribute to the nations blood banks, Burgess noted that nearly everyone in the U.S. is thought to have some PFAS in their bodies and that, given chronic shortages, the need for donated blood outweighs the risks.

From my perspective, the benefits of giving blood, even though it has some degree of PFAS in it, are much greater than the potential harm from the PFAS that people might receive because, again, blood products can be lifesaving, Burgess said.

Citing the Australian study, Nicole Maul, director of media relations for the American Red Cross, which manages standards and quality control for the blood banks, said further study is needed to determine whether donations by firefighters have any clinical implications.

No study has shown a detrimental effect of such substances in blood for donors or recipients, Maul said. The Red Cross and the FDA work together to ensure the blood supply is as safe as possible, and individuals should not worry about the safety of donating or receiving blood.

A Department of Defense spokesperson said Aug. 29 that the Pentagon uses the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry to guide its firefighter PFAS testing program and develop information it provides to personnel, including military physicians, on the potential health effects of PFAS.

It is not possible yet to distinguish PFAS exposures by DoD personnel in their occupational setting from those they may experience from consumer products, so much of the information provided is general PFAS health effects information, said Peter Graves, chief of media operations for the Defense Health Agency. The DoD will update occupational health provider fact sheets when ATSDR updates their PFAS clinical guidelines and develop or incorporate available PFAS training modules for healthcare providers, as appropriate.

Graves added that the Defense Department is interested in the outcomes of ongoing health studies by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry as well as toxicology assessments by the Environmental Protection Agency and noted that the Pentagon supported the testicular cancer study by allowing use of the Department of Defense Serum Repository and including it in the Pentagons Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs.

CDMRP research projects are not requested by the Pentagon in its annual budget, but instead are supported by extra money that Congress gives the department to manage research projects that members deem necessary to advance medical science and promote the health of the armed forces.

Rhodes, the veteran military firefighter, said he has high hopes for the University of Arizona research and would like to see more studies done on reducing PFAS exposure as well as the illnesses linked to PFAS. He also wants Congress to extend the health and disability benefits for a lifetime for those illnesses.

I put my life on the line for 30 years for people I didnt know, and I did it willingly, he said. That is every firefighters mindset. Now we are asking for a little bit. Theres something out there killing us. Keep researching and dont give us pushback when we want testing. Make it easier for us.

KFF Health News, formerly known as Kaiser Health News (KHN), is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs of KFF  the independent source for health policy research, polling and journalism.)

2023 KFF Health News.

Visit kffhealthnews.org.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
New Marines conduct a motivational run at Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego on Aug. 31, 2023. The motivational run is the last physical training exercise Marines conduct while at the depot. (Alexander O. Devereux/U.S. Marine Corps)

Two senators are questioning whether an electronic records system is partly to blame for the militarys failure to get enough recruits into basic training because it has led to delays in clearing them medically.

Sens. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, both Democrats on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said they have requested the Defense Department describe the severity of the delays and called for an evaluation of the impact the delays have had on recruiting.

Recruiters from each service branch have had difficulty in the last two years finding enough candidates for basic training. The Army missed its recruitment goal in 2022 by about 15,000 soldiers, according to the service. The 2023 recruiting deadline ends Sept. 30, the last day of the fiscal year, and the Air Force and Navy have joined the Army in saying the services will likely miss their enlistment targets.

It is essential that recruits are healthy enough to enlist in the military. However, DOD needs to examine the steps it is taking to ensure that the process of enlisting and obtaining waivers does not impede the recruitment process, the senators wrote in a letter sent Wednesday to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. If this backlog continues, we may lose our next generation of military leaders who are well-qualified but may be deterred from applying because of long past and fully addressed medical issues.

In March 2022, the Defense Department employed a new congressionally mandated health information system called Genesis at all 67 military processing stations. The system is intended to improve the departments ability to track the recruits as they move through the service because it holds all medical records in one digital location.

A year after the rollout, Lin St. Clair, deputy director of the Defense Departments accession policy directorate, said the program did cause initial delays in medically clearing recruits for basic training.

The process now takes about three days longer on average than it did before Genesis.

From the time a recruiter submits an applicant for evaluation to the time that the recruit signs a contract takes about 27 days on average, according to the Defense Department. However, half of applicants make it through in nine days or fewer.

However, the senators wrote that processing times are much longer. The Navys average processing period is almost 60 days  double what it was before Genesis was implemented, according to Warren and Blumenthal.

Aside from delays, the senators were also concerned Genesis might be creating barriers to accessing benefits information and invading the privacy of service members and military recruits. They cited reports that a credit card is needed to access Genesis, which has led to fears that personal information could be sold to third-party companies.
Oisin Legaspi (39) was initially charged and granted bail in March

A Dublin businessman has been sent forward for trial accused of possessing almost 100,000 in crime proceeds.

Car dealer Oisin Legaspi (39) with an address in D.18, was initially charged and granted bail in March.

He appeared again at Dublin District Court today to be served with a book of evidence.

He has two charges for possessing proceeds of crime in two south Dublin banks: 27,000 in an AIB account in Ballsbridge in south Dublin on May 17, 2019, and 70,000 in an AIB in Belfield on September 14, 2018.

The charges are under section seven of the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010.

The Director of Public Prosecutions had directed the case to proceed on indictment at a higher level with broader sentencing powers.

Judge Paula Murphy granted a return for trial order, sending the accused forward to the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, where the case will be listed for mention in October.

There was no objection to bail.

Mr Legaspi was warned that he must notify the prosecution if he intended to use an alibi in his defence. Judge Murphy also ordered gardai to provide copies of interview videos to the defence.

Earlier, the court heard he made no reply to the charges put to him after he was brought to the Bridewell Garda station.

He has to obey an order not to associate with three other individuals whose names were not read out during the hearing.

The accused is yet to indicate a plea.
Lawyers for Gavin Goodfellow had argued the 27-year-olds offences were not sexually motivated

A judge today ordered that a Co Tyrone man who urinated in public at the airport and flashed his penis at the cops will have to sign the police sex offenders register.

Lawyers for Gavin Goodfellow had argued the 27-year-olds offences at Belfast International Airport were not sexually motivated so it was unfair for him to have to sign the register as a sex offender.

The Crown contended however that the legislation was clear and logical in that the notification requirements flowed depending on the sentence imposed.

This time last year Goodfellow, from the Edendoit Road in Pomeroy, was ordered to do 100 hours of community service and sign the police sex offenders register for five years after he admitted indecent behaviour and exposure at Belfast International Airport on 22 June last year.

Gavin Goodfellow

The court heard at that stage how staff at a cafe in Aldergrove called police for help regarding a male passenger who was intoxicated, falling off a chair and bothering staff and passengers.

Having identified Goodfellow, he claimed he was getting a flight to Ibiza but staff at the check in desk confirmed he had earlier been refused boarding because he was too drunk to fly.

Goodfellow was told to leave and police stayed in the area in case he either hurt himself or tried to get back in but a short time later, he was again trying to get into the check in hall, claiming he had managed to book a flight but again, check in staff confirmed there was no such booking.

Escorted from the building, the defendant continued to remain in the area and tried to get back in before he went to a nearby hedge where taxis and buses were parked, pulled down the front of his shorts and began urinating, she told the court.

Warned by the police about his behaviour, Goodfellow tried to get back into the airport building, claiming he needed to use the toilet but when he was again warned about urinating in public, he started to laugh at police, turned slightly, pulled his shorts down and grabbed his genitals.

Police shouted at him to stop but he repeated the gesture and there were members of the public in the area at the time, said the lawyer.

Since the time Goodfellow was sentenced 12 months ago, the case has been repeatedly and frequently mentioned in the County Appeal Court as he lawyers sought to argue he should not be forced to sign the police offenders register.

It [the offending] was not motivated or to obtain sexual gratification and he does not pose a risk to society, his barrister told the court today, highlighting that if he had been given an 11 month probation order, Goodfellow would not be on the register.

The only reason he was not given probation, the lawyer argued, was because the pre-sentence report did not identify any areas where he needed help or support.

Ruling on the arguments, Judge Roseanne McCormick KC went through the legislation relating to sex offences under the NI justice order and refusing the defence applications, told the court it was clear the requirements for the sex offenders register is triggered by the threshold of disposal.

The sentence imposed, 100 hours CSO, was not being appealed so Goodfellow having to sign the police sex offenders register for five years is an automatic consequence of the sentence.
The incident is alleged to have happened at Store Street garda station in central Dublin on April 29 this year.

A SON of Sinn Fein TD Aengus O Snodaigh has pleaded not guilty to public order offences.

Lorcan O Snodaigh (25), who is charged over an alleged disturbance at a garda station, had his case adjourned at Dublin District Court.

Mr O Snodaigh of Naas Road, Bluebell, Dublin is charged with threatening, abusive and insulting words or behaviour and failing to comply with garda directions.

The incident is alleged to have happened at Store Street garda station in central Dublin on April 29 this year.

The accused was charged in April and when the case came back before the court, his solicitor Matthew De Courcy told Judge Bryan Smyth he was "seeking a hearing date."

Garda Sergeant Tony Flanagan said there would be three state witnesses and Mr De Courcy said there would be two witnesses for the defence.

The court heard there would be CCTV evidence, though the footage "doesn't fully cover the incident itself," Mr De Courcy said.

Judge Smyth adjourned the case to a date in October, for mention, to set a date for the hearing.

Mr O Snodaigh was not required to address the court during the brief proceedings and was remanded on continuing bail.

The charges against him are under Sections 6 and 8 of the Public Order Act.

He had previously also been charged with possessing a stolen angle grinder and power drill, but that charge was withdrawn by prosecution on the last court date.

His father Aengus O Snodaigh, a Sinn Fein TD for the Dublin South-Central constituency, is party spokesperson on Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
The 17-year-old was arrested on April 12 after gardai responded to an alert call from a female in distress after leaving a hotel room.

A student who ransacked a Dun Laoghaire hotel room and bit two gardai during an acid-induced psychotic episode has walked free from court.

The prosecution was dropped to allow him to participate in a Garda youth diversion programme instead of facing trial in the Childrens Court and the risk of a conviction and a custodial sentence.

The 17-year-old was arrested on April 12 after gardai responded to an alert call from a female in distress after leaving a hotel room.

He was charged with assault causing harm to two officers, affray, and criminal damage at the Royal Marine Hotel, and he appeared at the Dublin Childrens Court, which granted bail in April.

Following adjournments, Judge Paul Kelly heard the prosecution was withdrawing the case. Defence counsel Doireann McDonagh said her client, who had no prior criminal convictions, would be dealt with through the Garda Juvenile Diversion Programme.

The crime diversion scheme is an alternative to a court prosecution. It does not carry the risk of a criminal record and a custodial sentence but requires the young person to accept responsibility for the offence.

Earlier, Garda Steven Carton had said the boys reply to the assault charges were: I apologise, I was not in a right mind and I apologise.

He said 2,500 worth of damage was caused to the hotel room where the teen had been with his girlfriend.

Garda Carton said the teenager bit one garda on his leg where the flesh was removed, but the teens bite to a second garda did not break that officers skin. They were medically examined afterwards, and the teenager was also hospitalised following the incident.

His barrister said the teen was still in education and had received youth awards. The court heard the teen took acid and had a psychotic episode; he cant really remember anything, and the incident was out of character.

He injured himself during the unfortunate situation but is holding his hands up, counsel said.

While on bail over the past five months, the teen had to obey a curfew, stay out of Dun Laoghaire, reside at his family home, remain contactable by mobile phone and stay intoxicant-free.
Legarda asserts responsible PR practices

Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda today stressed responsible public relations practice in maintaining a healthy democracy.

Legarda, a respected broadcast journalist before her political stint, told participants of the 30th National Public Relations Congress in Makati their crucial role in keeping the populace well-informed.

"In a democratic country like the Philippines, the government is held accountable by the public for its actions and policies," said Legarda.

"This is where public relations play a crucial role, making sure that government actions and policies are communicated clearly and accurately to the public," the lawmaker added.

"Through this effective communication and accountability, trust is built, credibility is strengthened, public support is maintained, and the democratic process thrives."

Legarda noted that in a time of rapidly evolving communication, fake news and propaganda often proliferate the internet, which distorts the integrity of public discourse.

With the development of communications technology, the critical aspect of public relations is given the formidable task of keeping the public trust.

According to Legarda, responsible and correct practice through social media is now a significant factor in policy implementation, as many of the government's pronouncements are easily influenced by public discourse online.

"As public relations professionals, you are at the forefront of conveying critical information, maintaining social cohesion in times of crisis, and can be active partners of the government in promoting efforts to advance policies on social welfare, economic development, and even environmental sustainability," asserted Legarda.

The solon also commended the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) for its steadfast commitment to paving the way for the promotion of informed decision-making among the Filipino people.

She underscored that this year's Public Relations Congress has provided a valuable platform in reaffirming the industry's commitment to effecting and accurate information, which plays a crucial role in nation-building.

"May you continue to be at the forefront of managing ethical communication strategies while promoting accurate information, ensuring that the community is properly informed, and empowering people to make educated decisions."

In her decades-long tenure in public service, the four-term senator proudly shared that she has been closely following an ever-changing world shaped by technological advancements.

"My years in public service have taught me the principles of transparency, accountability, and effective communication as fundamentals in fostering trust, promoting good governance, and driving positive change in our communities."
Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed in a phone call on Thursday responses to the recent humanitarian tragedy unfolding in Libya after Storm Daniel devastated massive parts in the east of the country and left thousands dead and missing.

Shoukry briefed Blinken on ongoing Egyptian humanitarian assistance provided to the Libyan people and Egyptian workers in afflicted areas in Libya.

Egypt dispatched urgent humanitarian aid to Libya immediately after Daniel struck on Sunday.

President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi directed the Armed Forces to provide humanitarian aid, including relief teams, rescue equipment, and shelter camps, in cooperation and coordination with the Libyan authorities.

Egypt also set up camps in its western desert near the Libyan border to shelter victims.

Daniel destroyed whole towns and areas in eastern Libya, including large parts of Derna, and left thousands dead or missing and tens of thousands displaced.

Ending Sudan conflict



The two top diplomats also discussed recent developments in the conflict in Sudan.

Shoukry briefed Blinken on ongoing Egyptian efforts to resolve the five-month-old conflict in Sudan politically and also provide humanitarian assistance to the Sudanese people.

He also reviewed ongoing efforts by Sudan's neighbours to implement their roadmap for a peaceful resolution to the conflict there.

Egypt plans to invite the foreign ministers of Sudan's neighbouring countries to a meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week, Shoukry informed Blinken.

From his side, Blinken expressed his country's appreciation for Egypt's important role in promoting peace, security, and stability in the Middle East and Africa.

Both sides reaffirmed the importance of the strategic economic and political ties between the two countries, according to the statement.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


A total of 12 people have now been arrested as part of a probe and eleven have been charged

Watch: Car driven at speed at a group of people in Galway

Three more people have been charged by gardai investigating an incident during which a car was driven into a group of people in Galway city last weekend.

Three men, one aged in his 40s, and the other two in their 20s, were arrested earlier today.

The arrests brings to a total number of 12 individuals arrested so far in connection with the investigation.

Eleven people have now been charged over the incident.

Gardai have made three further arrests as part of ongoing investigations into a public order and endangerment incident which occurred on Sunday, September 10 in Galway City, a statement issued by gardai reads.

"They are currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at a garda station in the Western region.

This brings to 12 the total number of individuals arrested to date in connection with this investigation.

Gardai later confirmed all three were charged and due before a sitting of Galway District Court this afternoon, Thursday, September 14, 2023 at 2:30pm.

A spokesperson said: The investigation is ongoing and further updates will follow.

This morning two men aged 19 and 24, detained at a garda station in the Western region following arrests, were charged and due to appear before Galway District Court.

Meanwhile, as investigations remain ongoing, gardai in Galway continued o appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward.

They are particularly appealing to those who were in the College Road and Headford Road areas in Galway between 5.45pm and 6.45pm on Sunday evening and observed any violent behaviour, to contact them.

Additionally, individuals with camera footage, including dash cam recordings, from the area are urged to provide this material to the gardai.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Galway Garda Station at 091 538 000, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any garda station.

Gardai have been investigating the serious public order incident that occurred in a car park of a shopping centre on the Headford Road at around 6pm on Sunday.

During the incident, a vehicle appeared to have been driven at speed at a group of people.

A man and a woman were taken to University Hospital Galway for their injuries, which were reported to be non-life threatening.

A large number of people were involved in the incident which was shared widely on social media.
Tragic deaths in Ireland, England and throughout Europe are being linked to Law who remains in custody as an investigation continues.

A Canadian former chef is before the courts in Toronto after it was discovered he'd been sending suicide kits out all over the world, resulting in what cops believe is at least 100 deaths.

Nicola speaks to journalist Brad Hunter about Kenneth Law and the 1,200 kits he posted after advertising his wares on the internet.

He tells me how tragic deaths in Ireland, England and throughout Europe are being linked to Law who remains in custody as an investigation continues.

This episode contains references to suicide. Anyone affected should call the Samaritans helpline on 116123.

Crime World Podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts and Soundcloud.

MORE EPISODES 
The suspected drugs will now be sent to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) for analysis.

Gardai have arrested a man (30s) and seized approximately 75,000 of suspected cocaine during searches conducted as part of Operation Tara in the Rathnew area of Co. Wicklow on Thursday.

Gardai attached to the Bray Drugs Unit, along with Wicklow detective and uniform members, conducted a search at a property in the area this morning.

Over the course of this search, cocaine was seized, along with two replica firearms, and drugs paraphernalia.

The suspected drugs will now be sent to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) for analysis. A statement from gardai said:

One male (30s) was arrested in connection with this seizure. He has since been charged and appeared earlier this afternoon before Bray District Court, where he was remanded in custody.

Investigations are ongoing.

The seizure forms part of Operation Tara, which is an enhanced national anti-drugs strategy, launched by Commissioner Drew Harris on July 2, 2021.

The focus of the campaign is to disrupt, dismantle and prosecute drug trafficking networks, at all levels.

This includes international, national and local operations involved in the importation, distribution, cultivation, production, local sale and supply of controlled drugs.
They hadn't heard from him in years and then these letters suddenly arrived in the post from Germany

The prime suspect in Madeleine McCann's disappearance has begged friends to support him in court if he has to stand trial on separate rape and child sex charges, it has been claimed.

Convicted rapist Christian Brueckner has written letters appealing to pals to talk about him as a "good guy" in a bid to clear his name.

In one letter, Brueckner who is currently in a German prison for the rape of a 72-year-old woman in Portugal, complained that prosecutors were making him out to be a monster.

The German native who prosecutors believe kidnapped Madeleine in 2007 and murdered her has made contact with people outside prison in recent weeks.

Maddie's parents Gerry and Kate McCann

One of Brueckner's former friends who is still in touch with those who knew him in the Algarve told the Mirror that it had freaked them out to receive the letters.

I know of two people who got the messages from Chris, this man said. It really freaked them out. They hadn't heard from him in years and then these letters suddenly arrived in the post from Germany.'

The source added: He was asking them to speak in his defence, about what a good guy he is. He said the German police and prosecutors have it in for him, that they are saying he is a monster.

The German suspect had lived in a warehouse outside Praia da Luz for several years but moved into a campervan just before Madeleine vanished.

Last year, he was named as the key suspect in the disappearance and murder of Madeleine, who vanished from her family's holiday apartment in the Algarve resort just a few days before her fourth birthday.

He has maintained his innocence and has still not been charged regarding her abduction.

Her parents Kate and Gerry McCann, from Rothley, Leicestershire, spearheaded a high-profile campaign for information about her disappearance.

The case, unsolved for the past 16 years, remains a mystery as nobody has ever been found.

Brueckner has been charged in several separate cases involving sexual offenses allegedly committed in Portugal between 2000 and 2017.

These include the rape and sexual abuse of two children.

Although the court in Braunschweig due to issues relating to jurisdiction, it is understood Brueckner could still be charged with the same offences in a different court in Germany.

Meanwhile, he remains in a German prison for the rape of the 72-year-old American tourist in Portugal just 18 months before Madeleine was abducted.

His trial heard he planned the sex attack having broken into the victim's house with a rope to tie her up. She was blindfolded and gagged before being raped and robbed.

In July of this year it emerged that Helge Busching, who is now in German police witness protection, suggested that Brueckner came through the door of the McCanns apartment using a lock picking kit.

The 52-year-old told The Sun that he found the kit at Brueckners Algarve home after he and a friend decided to raid the property and kept it before turning it into police.

I knew from Christian that he uses tools to break into holiday resorts, hotels and holiday homes to steal from tourists, he said.

There were passports on the table. There was all sorts of stuff lying around  cameras, suitcases, everything that tourists have with them. I also found a lock pick set.

You can use it to pick any lock, including security locks.

Police in Portugal have maintained that the man who kidnapped Madeleine broke in through the window of the apartment and either left through a door with her or climbed back out the window.

But Busching believes that the main suspect may have used his lock picking kit to get access to the premises, saying he entered Through the door. Easily. He can open any door.

Missing Maddie

German police were reportedly electrified by the discovery of Brueckners lock picking kit and now believe that the window theory may be a red herring, according to a source.

An insider said: The German detectives were electrified by the discovery of the tool kit with the lock picks in it. This evidence is now very important to them.

It confirmed a suspicion that theyd had for a long time  that Christian B entered the apartment through the door.

Busching also claimed that Brueckner confessed to kidnapping Madeline, as reported by Bild.

He alleged that Brueckner told him the child didn't scream during the abduction.

Busching claims that Brueckner made the confession at the illegal Dragon Festival, which was held in the southern Spanish town of Orgiva a year after Madeleine's disappearance.

He said he knows that Brueckner abducted Madeleine, adding that another witness knows it as well.

Previously, soil from a reservoir in Portugal searched by police was submitted to be compared with samples from Brueckners camper van.

Detectives believe Brueckner visited the remote Barragem do Arade reservoir in Portugals Algarve region days after Madeleine disappeared.

Sources told The Daily Mirror that officials now believe they can prove that Brueckners van was in the area at the time the three-year-old was abducted.

The insider claimed that if the soil sample analysis reveals a positive match, police may be able to further close the net around Brueckner (45), who has not yet been charged.
Sara Sharifs body was found at her home in Woking, Surrey, in August  three members of her family have now been detained for questioning

Sara Sharif was found dead at the family home in Woking (Surrey Police/PA)

Three people have been arrested on suspicion of murder after the death of 10-year-old Sara Sharif in the UK.

Surrey Police said two men and a woman had been detained after disembarking a flight from Dubai on Wednesday evening.

The body of Sara Sharif was discovered at her home in Woking, Surrey, in August. A post-mortem examination found the youngster had suffered multiple and extensive injuries over a sustained and extended period of time.

Read more Dubai detectives to travel to Ireland in move to bring down Kinahan cartel bosses

On Wednesday evening, a spokesman for Surrey Police said: Two men, aged 41 years and 28 years, and a woman, aged 29 years, were arrested on suspicion of murder after disembarking a flight from Dubai.

They are currently in custody and will be interviewed in due course.
It looks like there is a little bit of spin going on here

The Garda investigation into the Kinahan Organised Crime Group and its leadership is complete and a vast file is now with the Director of Public Prosecutions for a decision which will likely see Christy Kinahan Snr and his sons Daniel and Christopher Jnr in the dock in the Special Criminal Court by next year.

So why then, amidst a crises for Garda Commissioner Drew Harris, is he suggesting that police from Dubai are coming to Ireland, due to his intervention at the highest level, to help the Garda investigation?

As an aside from the facts, common sense would indicate that it would be far more helpful for Gardai to go to Dubai to help their counterparts in the country that the Kinahans have been living and operating in for the past seven or more years.

Call me a cynic but it looks like there is a little bit of spin going on here when it comes to the one story that will always be sure to make the headline.

Even at a time that Commissioner Harris has made history after an overwhelming vote of no confidence in him at a ballot by the Garda Representative Association he has come out smelling of roses and appearing to be the only one that can step in and sort the Emirates one way or another.

Hats off for that.

But Commissioner Harris is the ultimate politician who knows that if he operates with full support of the government, the opinions of rank and file dont matter.

What he is not is an investigator and, while he can spin the headlines, scratch beneath the surface and he exposes himself as a naive crime fighter.

There are other facts too that dont stack up around his journey to Dubai in recent weeks to build bridges with police there.

Daniel Kinahan

Apart from the inconsistencies around the Kinahan investigation here, there is also the blinding fact that the UAE have not picked up Sean McGovern 18 months since they were told a European Arrest Warrant has been issued and that he is wanted here on murder charges.

McGovern, named during the announcement of US sanctions on the Kinahan organisation and its key inner circle, is accused of murdering Noel Duck Egg Kirwan.

Kirwan knew members of the Hutch family and stood next to Gerry The Monk Hutch at the funeral of his brother Eddie in February 2016, the month the murderous Kinahan Hutch feud kicked off.

It was his presence as a mourner that sealed his death and just days before Christmas that year, Kinahan hitmen moved in on him as he sat with his partner in the driveway of his home. He was riddled with bullets and died in her arms.

Noel 'Duck Egg' Kirwan

McGovern who was based in Dublin had taken command of the intricacies of the murder and is understood to have directed others to kill him. Within weeks he was gone and pitched up in Dubai at Kinahans side moving his family out to join him.

McGovern is Daniel Kinahans closest associate and between them they chose who would live and who would die as they waged their bloody revenge from their Gulf paradise.

If Commissioner Drew Harris had a successful visit to Dubai in recent weeks he would have asked why police there have not picked him up and sent him on a plane home.

McGovern continues to live openly in the millionaires paradise; he goes to bars, restaurants and is regularly spotted in the same hangouts the Kinahans have frequented for years.

The lack of movement and co-operation by authorities in the United Arab Emirates tells us just where we rank in importance to them.

However all is not lost.

While Commissioner Harris has been working behind the scenes and claiming personal hurt for the vote of no confidence against him, his cohorts in the Emirates are spinning too because they are intent on making the world feel they are cleaning up their act when it comes to Dubai being a haven for money laundering.

In March 2022 the Financial Action Task Force placed the UAE on its grey list. This is summer the FATF said that the country is improving and that it is getting closer in line with international expectations.

But the UAE has a lot to do around money laundering and counter terrorist financing before the next review in April or May of 2024.

It is desperate to come off the list and is no doubt coming up with all sorts of ways of showing international co-operation and extending the hand of friendship into Europe as a result.

With the DPP consideration of the Kinahan file expected to take 6 months and bring any decision into the spring of 2024 and with the Emirates hopeful of passing the tasks set for them by the FATF, the wind of change could finally turn and a sliding doors moment could ultimately give the Kinahan leadership a stark lesson in the fact that nobody is above politics
Firefighters from Blanchardstown and Phibsborough Fire Stations responded to a collision where a car ended up over a stream

Dublin firefighters rescued a driver this week involved in a frightening crash which led to their car over-turning across a river and ending up wedged on a stone wall.

In images posted on social media, rescuers can be seen hoisting the white Volkswagen away from its dangerous position, with significant damage visible to the side of the car.

Thankfully no injuries were reported, indicating the driver in some ways had a very lucky escape.

Firefighters from Blanchardstown and Phibsborough fire stations responded to a collision where a car ended up over a stream.

Crane in action

Crews stabilised the vehicle and our emergency tender used a HIAB crane to make the scene safe, the DFB wrote on Twitter (X).

Users were quick to respond with one wag saying: You cant park there!

On a more serious note, more than 850 drivers were caught speeding during a garda slow down day initiative earlier this month.

The proactive 24-hour operation that began on Sept 4 was rolled out amid a significant rise in road deaths in Ireland.

One of the 865 motorists detected driving in excess of the speed limit was travelling at 161km/h in a 100km/h zone in Co Louth.

All of those drivers caught will now receive a 160 euro fixed charge notice in the post and have three penalty points applied to their licences.

DFB at work

Justice minister Helen McEntee announced a 20pc increase in the use of speed cameras on Irish roads in response to what she described as worrying trends around increasing road fatalities.

Ms McEntee said an additional 1.2 million euro is to be allocated for GoSafe vans, providing for an extra 1,500 hours of monitoring per month until the end of this year.

As of September 3, there had been 127 deaths on Irish roads so far in 2023. That is 23 more than the same period last year and 38 more than the same period in 2019.

A third of all deaths in 2023 have been people under the age of 25 and a quarter have been pedestrians.

There were 25 deaths in August alone.

The Government is examining a range of potential legislative moves aimed at changing driving behaviours.

One measure would see penalty points handed out for multiple offences committed in one incident, rather than just for the most serious offence.

Speed limits on some roads are also being reviewed.
The stock exchange and the two lions on the staircase had reportedly just been restored at a cost of 90 million.

A drunken Irish tourist who damaged the statue of a lion outside the recently renovated Brussels Stock Exchange is facing a bill of between 5,000 and 7,000, a Belgian architect has said.

Video captured the moment the clearly intoxicated Irishman, according to some reports, was about to climb onto the statue outside the building when the stone arm of an angel broke off.

According to nieuwsblad.be, he was later arrested by police at a fast food restaurant.

The stock exchange and the two lions on the staircase had reportedly just been restored at a cost of 90 million.

The renovation of the statue of the lion held by an angel, which is one of two that flank the entrance to the historic building, originally cost 17,600.

Watch: Irish man arrested for breaking statue in Brussels

Read more Stolen Van Gogh masterpiece worth 6m returned unharmed after three years

Nel Van De Vannet, architect and CEO of the Brussels Stock Exchange Renovation Project, described Belgians reaction to the damage caused to a statue as very, very sad.

It is a symbolically important building for Brussels and the Belgians, she told on RTEs Morning Ireland programme.

After three years of renovation, this weekend there was a grand opening.

As a gathering point where residents of the city go to in times of celebration and mourning, crowds had gathered there in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks that took place in the city in 2016.

So we saw after two days of opening, a happy Irish tourist breaking off the hand of one of the angels that holds the lion, we were very, very sad and upset, Van De Vannet added.

It will take probably two months again before we can see the whole lion with the hand intact again, she explained.

Asked how much the repair is likely to cost, Van De Vannet speculated that it would be between 5,000 and 7,000, adding that since the Irishman is now in police custody, he is likely to be footing the bill.

The building had finally opened its doors after three years on Saturday, only to be damaged the following day.

The Irishman, clearly intoxicated, wanted to have a photo taken while sitting on the back of the statue, nieuwsblad.be reports.

It consists of a lion and a man holding the torch. When he tried to crawl off the statue, the torch broke off.

The police were notified and the man was arrested shortly afterwards in a fast food restaurant nearby.
A rock was even strategically placed into the dug out hole, tricking local residents into believing they had witnessed something incredible.

A huge hole dug on a north Dublin beach during the recent heatwave flummoxed locals with some believing a meteor had smashed into the sand.

A rock was even strategically placed into the dug out hole, tricking some residents into believing they had witnessed something incredible.

"Theres scorch marks on the side so that may have been the angle it came down at. We are definitely going to have to find out its composition, one man told a Virgin Media reporter and camera crew.

Hole in the sand on Portmarnock beach

"I live on the beach on Canada, I dont have meteors landing on my beach, thank you Ireland for a wonderful experience, said a tourist.

"Never seen anything like this before, said one woman.

"When I saw how uniform it is, it really looks like an impact site, another man agreed.

However, images have since emerged on social media of young men appearing to dig the hole involved. The group are seen in shorts and hats during the sunny weather, with kids spades, indicating that the whole incident was a bit of a misunderstanding or indeed, a very early April 1 hoax.

Lads on the dig

Twitter (X) users were amused by the hoax with one offering the local astronomy fan this cold comfort: "I went around the library in UCD for an hour with the whole back of my skirt stuffed into my knickers, if it makes him feel any better.

"And that's why you should pay your TV licence!, another added.

"The poor crater, quipped a third.

"We used to dig holes deeper than this, great craic trying to get out of them", another X user reminisced.

Man digging the hole. Photo: X

The chances of being hit by a meteor arent as small as you may think, according to some researchers.

While the risk of a serious event is very low, space debris strikes Earth every year, almost always with no damage.

Only a handful of meteorites have ever even damaged property, and prior to a 2016 incident in India, there were no records of any human fatalities.

Nonetheless, US environmental sciences professor Stephen A. Nelson has calculated the odds of getting killed by a meteorite at about 1 in 250,000.

According to Dr. Nelson's statistics, murder (1 in 185), tornado (1 in 60,000), flood (1 in 27,000), and airplane crash (1 in 30,000) are much more likely incidents.
The 1,000-year-old fossils of the alien corpses were exhibited before politicians in a special session of the Mexican Congress

Conor McGregor has laughed off the alleged non-human alien corpses that have gone on display to Mexican politicians at the countrys Congress.

The images of the aliens have gone around the world after the two small corpses that were apparently retrieved from Cusco, Peru, were presented in windowed boxes in Mexico City.

The Dublin fighter weighed in on the debate after one X user joked that if the dusty remains of the tiny bodies, is actually what aliens look like, we have nothing to worry about.

In the comments section McGregor declared: Yup the yard yas little alien mad bastards, gis a lift ahahaha, alongside a red heart emoji.

The 1,000-year-old fossils of the alien corpses were exhibited before politicians in a special session of the Mexican Congress.

Journalist and UFO scientist Jaime Maussan told Mexico's parliament that the specimens are not part of the evolution of our world.

They were not recovered from a UFO scrap. They were found fossilised in a diatom moss mine," Maussan said, testifying under oath.

"We are not alone in the vast universe, we need to accept this reality," said Maussan, who argued that the public has the right to learn about non-human beings and technologies.

Mr Maussan told attendees the specimens had been studied by scientists at the Autonomous National University of Mexico (UNAM) who were able to draw DNA evidence using radiocarbon dating.

After comparisons were made to other DNA samples, it was found that over 30pc of the specimens DNA was unknown, he said.

X-rays of the specimens were also shown during the hearing, with experts testifying under oath that one of the bodies is seen to have eggs inside, while both were said to have implants made of very rare metals, such as Osmium.

Ryan Graves, Americans for Safe Aerospace Executive Director and former US Navy pilot, was in attendance, having earlier this year told US Congress of the threat that unidentified aerial phenomena posed to national security.

Mr Maussan has previously been associated with claims of alien discoveries that have later been debunked, including five mummies found in Peru in 2017 that were later shown to be human children.
Juan Cano Malaga Compartir Copiar enlace

WhatsApp

Facebook

X

LinkedIn

Telegram

Spain's National Police force is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a young woman whose body was found abandoned in a street in Torremolinos. The victim, as yet unidentified, died some hours before the discovery, and it is presumed by the authorities that the body was left there during the night. According to sources, the woman showed signs of asphyxia.

It was a few minutes past half past one in the morning on Wednesday 13 September when the body was found. It was some young people on their way home who came across the body on the pavement. Specifically, it was next to a pedestrian crossing at the entrance to the Benyamina Norte residential development, which is made up of two blocks and is situated in the upper part of Playamar. It is an area busy with pedestrian traffic, especially during the day.

The first alert was received by the Local Police in Torremolinos, who sent a patrol to the scene and alerted the health services to try to revive the young woman. The 061 paramedics were unable to do anything to save her life and initial observations suggested that she could have been dead for several hours.

As it was a death on a public road, and given the possibility of violence being involved, Local Police officers alerted the Torremolinos-Benalmadena National Police station, which sent specialists from the UDEV specialised and violent crime unit, responsible for investigating homicides among other things.

The judicial commission - composed of the duty judge, the lawyer of the Administration of Justice (LAJ) and a forensic doctor - was also activated to allow the removal of the body, which lasted well into the early hours of the morning, as extreme precautions had to be taken to preserve anything at the scene that could eventually become evidence.

The victim's body was first taken to the Hospital Clinico Universitario de Malaga for X-rays to detect internal fractures or other signs of violence. After that, the body was taken to the Institute of Legal Medicine (IML), where the autopsy was carried out on Wednesday morning.

The forensic examination was carried out by two professionals from the pathology service, as per protocol in the case of violent deaths where, in addition, there is suspicion about the cause of death. The final report is pending chemical, toxicological and histopathological tests, which is a microscopic study of the samples collected during the autopsy.

At the time of publication, sources close to the case confirmed that the victim has not yet been identified. Investigators estimate that she could be aged between 20 and 30 years old - although she had no documents on her. The only thing found next to her was a handbag which was practically empty. Police will now start checking reports or calls from people who have gone missing in the last few days to see if it could be one of them.

Initial police investigations suggest that the woman died of asphyxia, although the type has not yet been determined. Although the main theory is that she died a violent death, it has not been ruled out that she may have died as a result of an adverse reaction to a substance. In any case, the body must have been carried there.

The death of the young woman is being treated as the third violent death of a woman so far this year in Torremolinos

The death of the young woman is believed to be the third violent death of a woman in the Costa del Sol town so far this year. The first case was that of Paula, a 28-year-old waitress who was stabbed to death, allegedly by her ex-partner, Marco (45).

The victim had broken off her relationship with him and was even seeing someone else, but they were still living together until one of them could move out of the flat they shared in Torremolinos, where the crime took place on 11 May.

The alleged murderer fled the scene of the incident, but was arrested shortly afterwards by the Local Police. Once at the police station, where Marco invoked his right not to testify, he made a spontaneous statement about a previous partner, Sibora, who had been missing since 2014.

"Sibora is nearby, in Calvario, in a house, buried in a wall. Come on, I'll take you there", he continued to tell the police, who asked him to be more specific. "In Garcia de la Serna's house, in the attic flat where I lived with her. We had a fight and I stabbed her", he literally told the agents.

After several searches of the flat, the police found the body of the young woman, which was in a kind of coffin hidden within the walls of the building.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyens State of the European Union speech was a mixed bag from a business perspective. Several question marks remain over whether she can deliver policies that make the EU a centre for innovation and entrepreneurship, says Anna Stellinger, Head of International and EU Affairs at the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise.

Photo : TT / Soren Andersson

Anna Stellinger, Deputy Director General International and EU Affairs at the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise, and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Photo credit: TT/Soren Andersson. Photo : TT / Soren Andersson

The Commission President traditionally gives the State of the European Union speech in the EU Parliament in Strasbourg in September each year.

This year, von der Leyen started by highlighting what the Commission had achieved since taking office in 2019. This included climate policy in the EU, the blocs Covid response, and how EU countries have succeeded in presenting a united front towards Russia. A new Commission will be appointed next year.

We saw a strong and confident von der Leyen, who is widely tipped to win a second term as Commission president, says Stellinger, in a statement.

In her speech, von der Leyen promised measures against China and continued support for European industry.

Global markets are flooded with cheaper Chinese electric cars, whose prices were kept artificially low by huge state subsidies. This distorts our market, she told Parliament, promising a formal review of Chinese state aid to the countrys electric car manufacturing.

The green transition formed a large part of the speech, and focused on energy, biodiversity and food security.

Von der Leyen also announced that the Commission will make major investments in wind power, (through the European Wind Power package), which will include fast-track permit processes, greater access to financing, and measures to strengthen supply chains.

Focusing on strengthening competitiveness

Stellinger says von der Leyens speech amounted to a mixed bag for business:

We welcome her focus on strengthening competitiveness and supporting business, but several question marks remain as to whether she can deliver policies that make the EU the centre of innovation and entrepreneurship she wants when so much focus is on governance and support for specific technologies and production, rather than free competition and trade in a deepened single market, Stellinger says.
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.
By Tim Balk | New York Daily News

Gov. Kathy Hochul on Wednesday urged New Yorkers to get a potent new Covid vaccine due to hit pharmacies later this week, delivering a familiar call with virus hospital admissions once again rising statewide.

Hochul said a modest summer surge in hospitalizations does not mean that the bad old days of the pandemic are back, but that the freshly approved shots are the best tool available to prevent infections that still kill older adults.

I know everyone wants to be done with Covid, but Covid is not done with us, Hochul, a Democrat, said at a news conference in Midtown Manhattan.

As Americans have tired of the pandemic, vaccination rates have slumped with successive shot rollouts, maddening public health officials.

Heres the simple message, New Yorkers: Get the vaccine, Hochul said. Were smart. Were resilient. We protect each other.

When does the vaccine arrive?

The governor said the updated doses were on their way to New York, and would arrive at drug stores by the end of the week.

Make sure that you are getting the updated 2023-24 vaccine shot, not an older version.

The vaccine is formulated to attack the highly transmissible omicron XBB.1.5 variant, which is closely related to an estimated 90% of currently circulating Covid viruses, the governors office said.

The shot is set to be available at local pharmacies and at the doctors office, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Where can I get an updated Covid-19 vaccine shot in Central New York?

CVS Pharmacy locations, including inside Target stores, are taking appointments for the 2023-24 booster shots beginning today, Sept. 14, according to their website.

Walgreens Pharmacy locations are scheduling vaccine appointments starting Monday, Sept. 18, according to their website.

Wegmans Pharmacy was not yet taking updated vaccine appointments as of Thursday morning, Sept. 14.

Kinney Drugs expects to have vaccine appointments available within the next week, a spokesman said.

Who can get it?

The CDC advised Tuesday that Americans age 6 months or older get updated jabs from Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna.

A single shot is recommended for Americans who have already been immunized, according to the governors office. Those who have never received a jab can receive two shots.

I will be getting my vaccine very soon, said the twice-boosted Hochul, 65. You only need one  no more double doses.

She told New Yorkers, who may be wary of the fleeting symptoms of the lifesaving shots, not to simply get a new jab for themselves, but to support those who are at higher risk.

Uninsured Americans can get the shots under two programs: the Bridge Access Program for adults and Vaccines for Children Program, according to the CDC.

What is the status of Covid rates in New York?

About 68% of new Covid hospital cases in the state strike New Yorkers age 65 and older, and 9 in 10 Covid deaths now involve people age 60 and up, according to the governors office.

New York is logging more than three times as many Covid hospitalizations as it was in early July, according to state data, but the rate is nowhere near its brutal omicron peak in winter 2022.

The states caseload is around 5% of where it stood at the end of 2021, according to government figures, though case rates appear increasingly unreliable due to limited test reporting.

Health officials are tracking the new BA.2.86 variant, called Pirola, that has raised concern due to the constellation of mutations it carries on its spike protein.

Pirola has been cropping up across the U.S., and was identified in New York City sewage, according to the city Health Department.

The citys health commissioner, Dr. Ashwin Vasan, said the variants mutations may make it more contagious, but there does not appear to be evidence that it is more virulent.

While we have yet to find it in a specimen from a local resident, it is almost certainly circulating here, Vasan said in a statement two weeks ago.

He added that early indicators suggest the new shots would be effective in stopping the Pirola strain from causing severe illness and death.

Since Covid first arrived in New York more than three years ago, the states overall coronavirus death toll has climbed above 80,000.

But everything has changed, Hochul said Wednesday, reminding New Yorkers that they have the tools to stay safe. We are in a very, very different place.

With Josephine Stratman

2023 New York Daily News. Visit nydailynews.com.
Syracuse  Family members of two teens who were fatally shot by an Onondaga County sheriffs deputy joined others in a march and rally in downtown Syracuse on Thursday.

Around 40 activists, friends and family members gathered Thursday afternoon on Butternut Street and marched to the Onondaga County Sheriffs Office headquarters on South State Street.

The marchers are demanding the state Attorney Generals Office and the Onondaga County District Attorneys Office criminally charge the deputy involved in the shooting.

The protesters blocked traffic for a time on South State Street. They moved to allow a school bus and Centro buses to pass.

Some protesters tried to enter several government buildings along South State Street including the Onondaga County Sheriffs Office, the county courthouse buildings, the justice center and the Syracuse police department.

Protesters confronted deputies who arrived at the sheriffs headquarters in riot gear. The deputies went inside the building and did not use force on the protesters.

Onondaga County deputies in riot gear walk to the sheriff's office headquarters on South State Street in Syracuse as protesters confront them on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023.Fernando Alba | falba@syracuse.com

Protesters were holding signs with images of people who died during police interactions in the county.

The protest broke up around 3:20 p.m.

Dahl Apet, 17, and Lueth Mo, 15, were fatally shot by Deputy John Rosello on Sept. 6 while he was investigating a burglary and a report of suspicious persons in DeWitt. The teens were passengers in a stolen car.

The AGs Office is investigating the fatal shootings. The 34-year-old deputy is on paid administrative leave.

Roun Roun (left) and Laduka Taaban, hold a photo of Lueth Mo, Roun's brother, as protesters gather on Park and Butternut streets in downtown Syracuse Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023. Dennis Nett | dnett@syracuse.com

Around 6:18 a.m. Sept. 6, the deputy pulled up to two cars in a parking lot off North Midler Avenue, blocking a white Hyundai while a black Kia minivan sped away. He had been investigating a burglary on East Molly Road when he was dispatched to the parking lot area for a report of two suspicious vehicles.

Sheriff Toby Shelley said the stolen Hyundai drove toward the deputy and he fired three shots in self-defense.

Two shots struck the front windshield and one hit a passenger side window, Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said Tuesday. The Hyundai driver drove away and eventually, the car crashed near Mooney Avenue off Teall Avenue.

Apet and Mo, passengers in the car, both died. The driver fled.

This is a video released by the AGs Office of the shooting captured on a home security camera:

More Syracuse.com coverage

8 1 / 8 Two people killed by police in shooting in DeWitt

Video of deputy shooting teens leaves experts uncertain: What was his purpose for firing?

Video of shooting: Did sheriff accurately describe fatal shooting of 2 Syracuse teens? You decide

After seeing video of deputy shooting teens, Syracuse community calls for protest and patience

Sheriff Toby Shelley says he stands by deputy who fatally shot two Syracuse teens

Onondaga County DA: This is the key to the investigation of fatal shootings by deputy

Video shows deputy shooting two Syracuse teens in stolen car

Patrol car of deputy who fatally shot 2 teens in stolen car had dash camera but it wasnt on

Sheriffs office identifies deputy who fatally shot 2 Syracuse teens in stolen car

Deputy who killed teens should have activated body cam, experts say. What do you mean, he never had time?

2 families grieve teens deaths from a deputys gun: They did not deserve to die - syracuse.com

State Attorney General opens investigation into teens fatally shot by deputy in DeWitt

See sheriffs explanation of why deputy fired shots that killed two teens (Video)

2 teens killed in DeWitt by deputy who fired at vehicle which nearly ran deputy over, sheriff says

Two people killed by police in shooting in DeWitt, authorities say

Two teens fatally shot by deputy identified; they attended Henninger High School

Staff writer Anne Hayes covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at ahayes@syracuse.com.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Protesters on Wednesday in Syracuse called for Onondaga County Sheriff Toby Shelley to resign and for the firing of a deputy who fatally shot two teens in a stolen car.

About 20 demonstrators lined up in front of the sheriffs office headquarters on South State Street, holding signs that said Let children live and Stop killing our kids.

The protest was called after the state Attorney Generals Office Tuesday released a video showing the shooting of Lueth Mo, 15, and Dhal Apet, 17, on Sept. 6 and Shelley coming out again in support of the deputy.

The sheriff has said deputy John Rosello had no choice but to shoot at the stolen vehicle as it drove toward him in a parking lot of a mobile home park in DeWitt. The deputy fired three bullets. Two struck the front windshield and the third hit a side window, District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said Tuesday.

Lueth and Dhal were passengers in the stolen vehicle. The driver, who fled from the car after it crashed in Syracuse, was not shot.

The sheriff has said the deputy was investigating a burglary linked to the car.

After seeing the video, protesters saw the encounter differently. They said the video showed Rosello had plenty of time and in fact was able to move out of the vehicles path. They said the bullet hitting the side window shows the vehicle was passing him and not a real threat.

They also questioned why Rosello didnt turn on his body camera and why there was no dash camera on. The only video believed to show the encounter comes from a home security camera about 200 feet away.

It was extremely clear on the tape that not only did the sheriff lie but the (deputy) in question used excessive force, said Haz Bloodworth, an activist with RebirthSYR.

With all due respect, step down, resign. Your time has come to an end, Bloodworth said of Shelley. We cannot tolerate you and we cannot tolerate your behavior and your taking up of these officers who are clearly on the wrong side of the law.

Protesters also called for a review of the sheriffs office policies on body cameras and use of force.

Why was it not on? Deka Dancil, of the NYCLU, said of Rosellos body cam. The police is not the judge and the jury.

8 1 / 8 Two people killed by police in shooting in DeWitt

More Syracuse.com coverage

Video of deputy shooting teens leaves experts uncertain: What was his purpose for firing?

Video of shooting: Did sheriff accurately describe fatal shooting of 2 Syracuse teens? You decide

After seeing video of deputy shooting teens, Syracuse community calls for protest and patience

Sheriff Toby Shelley says he stands by deputy who fatally shot two Syracuse teens

Onondaga County DA: This is the key to the investigation of fatal shootings by deputy

Video shows deputy shooting two Syracuse teens in stolen car

Patrol car of deputy who fatally shot 2 teens in stolen car had dash camera but it wasnt on

Sheriffs office identifies deputy who fatally shot 2 Syracuse teens in stolen car

Deputy who killed teens should have activated body cam, experts say. What do you mean, he never had time?

2 families grieve teens deaths from a deputys gun: They did not deserve to die - syracuse.com

State Attorney General opens investigation into teens fatally shot by deputy in DeWitt

See sheriffs explanation of why deputy fired shots that killed two teens (Video)

2 teens killed in DeWitt by deputy who fired at vehicle which nearly ran deputy over, sheriff says

Two teens fatally shot by deputy identified; they attended Henninger High School

Two people killed by police in shooting in DeWitt, authorities say

Staff writer Fernando Alba covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, question or comment? Reach him: Email | Twitter or at 315-690-6950.
When audiences step into the Archbold Theater this fall, some may be greeted with a familiar sight: A linoleum floor; folding chairs; fluorescent lights; a vintage American flag; a bingo board on the wall; a giant eagle with an emblazoned seal.

Its the set for Syracuse Stages 50th Anniversary season opener, What the Constitution Means to Me, and with all its quirks and hidden details (more on that later) it is meant to look like the inside of an American Legion Hall, a place known to countless veterans of wars past and present, young and old.

Its also the place where the playwright, Heidi Schreck, spent many hours as a high school student from Wenatchee, Washington, delivering speeches about the U.S. Constitution in competitions for college scholarship money. Those orations, and the now-grown Schrecks relationship to her 15-year-old self, form the thrust of this autobiographical play, which premiered off-Broadway in 2017, and would go on to be nominated for two Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

For Syracuse Stage associate artistic director Melissa Crespo (who is directing this production), and set designer Ann Beyersdorfer (a Syracuse University alumna based in New York City, whose design credits include the recent Broadway revival of Company, and art direction on NBCs Saturday Night Live), What the Constitution Means to Me is an opportunity to interrogate our nations founding document, and, perhaps more importantly, an invitation for audience and artist to collaborate on a vision for the future. After all, what is a theatre (or a democracy, for that matter) if not a meeting space, and a testing ground for ideas?

To prepare for Constitution, Beyersdorfer and Crespo combed through images of American Legion interiors and were first struck by their welcoming vibe.

We noticed that most of the American Legion halls looked like inviting communal spaces, Beyersdorfer said. A lot of them were similar to community centers, and had that aesthetic to them, rather than something that felt more legislative or institutional. And we really wanted to bring that in, this environment that welcomed people, and different events.

Its that sense of community that Crespo hoped to tap into, while maintaining the bite of Schrecks messaging. Throughout the play, the character of Heidi, portrayed in this Syracuse Stage production by Mel House, must contend with a Constitution that does not afford the same protections to women and people of color that are granted, implicitly, to men who look like the Founding Fathers. By revisiting the Legion Hall speeches from her youth, Schreck is able to investigate how this reality affected her life, and the lives of the women who raised her.

For Crespo and her artistic team, centering those ideas within a world that Central New Yorkers could relate to was essential, and audience members who look closely at Beyersdorfers set might also be met with some familiar faces. On the walls, staring down at Heidi as she wrestles with her past and present, are dozens of photos of veterans, proud in their uniforms, bearing silent witness alongside the audience. These include pictures of actual veterans  both men, and women  from around Central New York, a reminder of the role theyve played in preserving our local democracy.

We wanted to honor the service members related to the Syracuse area either directly or through a relative who lives here, Crespo said. Its rare to see yourself represented in such a meaningful way at the theatre, so its been a real joy to collect the photos and see folks respond to their relatives on our set.

And this easter egg hits even closer to home for some folks who work at Syracuse Stage: Amongst those selected for the production by prop supervisor Mara Tunnicliff are pictures that were submitted by staff and board members; over 30 photos of themselves, their parents, their partners, or their children adorn the set.

These touches, along with other details  Christmas lights strung up, paper links left over from a celebration, the bingo board  act as a reminder that American Legions do not serve a single purpose, that they, just like the document so under scrutiny (and the theatre itself) are flexible, and ever-changing. For Beyersdorfer, that flexibility has come to represent the work that she, Crespo, and the rest of the team have brought to life onstage.

The first time I read the play, I had one idea, one perspective, she said. The second time I read it, my ideas and opinions were changing. When I listened to the first rehearsal, I had a different opinion, again. Thats what were trying to convey as storytellers and collaborators: to encourage our audiences to come and watch, and engage in conversation.

Crespo echoed that sentiment, adding: This play is so important to us as Americans, especially with how divided we are. And theaters, I consider them community spaces. They are civic spaces.

Details:

What: What the Constitution Means to Me

When: Runs Friday, Sept. 15 through Sunday, Oct. 1

Where: Syracuse Stage, 820 E. Genesee St., Syracuse

Tickets/info: Visit syracusestage.org
(This is part of an ongoing series that showcases some of the best food and drinks in Central New York that you probably dont know about. Do you have a hidden gem? Share your favorite by emailing me at cmiller@syracuse.com or texting me at 315-382-1984. I might even buy you a meal.)

****
Aurora, N.Y.  Central New Yorkers have long known that the tiny village of Aurora is a quiet, lakeside gem.

Now, the rest of the nation is finally starting to take notice.

Aurora, a community in Cayuga County thats home to fewer than 800 people, has been named Americas best small spa and wellness town by Travel + Leisure. The ridiculously scenic village on Cayuga Lake earned the distinction thanks to the Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa  a widely lauded group that includes five stately inns, a farm-to-table restaurant and a hilltop spa that the magazines readers recently voted as New Yorks best resort.

But The Spa at the Inns of Aurora and its sister guest houses arent the only attractions that make Aurora the perfect place to spend a long weekend.

Throw in the fact that this stretch of the Finger Lakes is filled with gorge hikes, tap rooms, farm stands, and low-key beaches, and Aurora starts to look like not only the best small town for wellness, but for just about anybodys idea of what the chilled-out good life should be, Travel + Leisure wrote.

The Spa at the Inns of Aurora, located at 700 Sherwood Road in Aurora, N.Y., has helped earn the tiny village of Aurora a reputation as a relaxing, wellness-focused community. This photo shows the spa's indoor pool. Photo: Bryan Peck, courtesy of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

Perched on the east side of Cayuga Lake, the longest of the Finger Lakes, Aurora is a college town  home to Wells College, a small private institution that was a womans college for 136 years before going co-ed in 2005. Its about 25 minutes south of Auburn and 40 minutes north of Ithaca.

Along with Wells, Aurora is home to MacKenzie-Childs  the manufacturer whose hand-painted, checkered ceramics and furniture are made by artists at a bucolic campus just outside of the village.

Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for beautiful Upstate New York views and more content.

The village on the eastern edge of Finger Lakes famed wine country is a short drive from a number of wineries, including Heart & Hands Wine Company in Union Springs and Treleaven Winery in King Ferry.

But for travelers seeking a restful respite from bustling daily life, The Spa at the Inns of Aurora is the villages main, sparkling draw.

The Spa at the Inns of Aurora, located at 700 Sherwood Road in Aurora, N.Y., has helped earn the tiny village of Aurora a reputation as a relaxing, wellness-focused community. Photo: Bryan Peck, courtesy of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

Housed on a hilltop with views of Cayuga Lake, The Spa opened in 2021. It is home to outdoor pools and an indoor pool, a sauna and a steam room, and many lounge-worth spots. Guests can get massages, pedicures, hydrotherapy a number of treatments on The Spas extensive menu of services.

The Spa also has an on-site cafe with a complimentary grazing table for guests, who can sip kombucha, wine or espresso while snacking on soup and salad.

This year, the ambitious wellness retreat received a gold-level Well Certification  making it the only spa in the U.S. to so far achieve the honor, Travel + Leisure wrote.

The magazine encouraged travelers to stay at one of the Inns of Auroras residences, like the historic Aurora Inn hotel on Main Street or the private, pet-and-kid friendly Orchard Cottage. Hungry visitors can grab a meal and drink at Aurora Brewing Company, Travel + Leisure said, or Fargo Bar & Grill.

The Spa at the Inns of Aurora, located at 700 Sherwood Road in Aurora, N.Y., has helped earn the tiny village of Aurora a reputation as a relaxing, wellness-focused community. This photo shows the pedicure stations inside the spa. Photo: Bryan Peck, courtesy of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

The Spa at the Inns of Aurora, located at 700 Sherwood Road in Aurora, N.Y., has helped earn the tiny village of Aurora a reputation as a relaxing, wellness-focused community. This photo shows the outside of the co-ed sauna. Photo: Bryan Peck, courtesy of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

The Spa at the Inns of Aurora, located at 700 Sherwood Road in Aurora, N.Y., has helped earn the tiny village of Aurora a reputation as a relaxing, wellness-focused community. This photo shows the the cafe inside the spa. Photo: Bryan Peck, courtesy of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

The Spa at the Inns of Aurora, located at 700 Sherwood Road in Aurora, N.Y., has helped earn the tiny village of Aurora a reputation as a relaxing, wellness-focused community. This photo shows the inside of the co-ed sauna. Photo: Bryan Peck, courtesy of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

The Spa at the Inns of Aurora, located at 700 Sherwood Road in Aurora, N.Y., has helped earn the tiny village of Aurora a reputation as a relaxing, wellness-focused community. Photo: Bryan Peck, courtesy of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

The Spa at the Inns of Aurora, located at 700 Sherwood Road in Aurora, N.Y., has helped earn the tiny village of Aurora a reputation as a relaxing, wellness-focused community. Photo: Bryan Peck, courtesy of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

READ MORE

Upstate NY mountain resort voted best hotel in New York and one of the worlds finest

Chill out: Six spas in Upstate NY make list of best spas in America

Best resort in NY is located in the Finger Lakes; see full ranking

Babymoons in Upstate NY: 11 places to stay, explore for parents-to-be
Auburn, N.Y.  A landmark rail-car diner that has sat perched over the Owasco River in downtown Auburn since 1951 will need to be relocated due to safety concerns.

The Hunter Dinerant, which closed for business on Dec. 31, was seized by the city of Auburn for back taxes in May. But city officials have determined it is at risk if there were to be a breach in the city-owned dam upriver from its location at the point where Genesee Street (Route 20) crosses the river.

The Mill Street Dam, about a quarter mile upriver from the diner, is not in bad condition, according to Seth Jensen, Auburns director of utilities. But any break in the dam could pose a serious threat to the property and any people who might be inside, he said.

There really wouldnt be any time before the water reached that location, Jensen said.

The Auburn Common Council is meeting tonight to discuss a Request for Proposals for someone to buy and relocate the diner.

Because of its location over the water, moving the diner would pose a significant challenge, Jensen said. It would also require steps to ensure the safety of traffic on Genesee Street.

We are trying to be fiscally responsible about the diners future, said Jennifer Haines, Auburns director of planning and economic development. Were trying to attract private interest, and we hope to find somebody that could respect the diner and its history.

The diner is striking for its steel exterior and its location. The former rail car was moved by truck to its current location in 1951. It served classic diner fare to generations of Auburn residents and visitors since then.

It also has a connection to the White House.

The original owners were Robert and Louise Hunter, the parents of Neilia Hunter, President Joe Bidens first wife. Neilia Hunter grew up in the Auburn / Skaneateles area, and met Biden while they were on a college break. They married and lived in Syracuse while he attended the Syracuse University Law School.

Neilia and her daughter, Naomi, were killed in a car accident in 1972 that injured the Bidens sons, Beau and Hunter. Joe Biden has been a frequent visitor to the diner over the years, most recently while attending a nieces wedding in 2014.

Bill and Rachel Juhl bought the Hunter Dinerant from the Hunter family in 2011, but retained the name and most of the operation as it was. Like many restaurants, it struggled during Covid, and the Juhls finally closed it at the end of last year.

Tonights Common Council meeting will include a presentation from the city manager on the status of the property, the threats proposed by a flood on the river, and allow councilors to discuss how to proceed with the RFP from potential owners, Haines said.

We would love to see this diner remain in Auburn. she said. Its part of who we are.

Don Cazentre writes for NYup.com, syracuse.com and The Post-Standard. Reach him at (315) 470-2297 or dcazentre@nyup.com, or follow him at NYup.com, on Twitter or Facebook.
The Syracuse School District changed its building-use policy Wednesday evening, months after community outrage erupted over a Baptist church hosting weekly worship services at Nottingham High School.

Community concern over the churchs views on gay rights was heightened after syracuse.com | The Post-Standard published a series of stories about Radiant Church using the auditorium for weekly services and occasionally the pool for baptisms.

After the story ran, the teachers union called for the end of the districts arrangement with Radiant. The board also began a review of its building-use policy.

Anybody who uses a school building will now need to adhere to the districts code of conduct which promotes inclusion.

Radiant Church, a new church with roots in Iowa, used the high school as their sole worship location from January until the end of June. The church had submitted an application to use the school, which was approved by Director of Facilities Tom Ferrara.

Jason Lankford, lead pastor at Radiant Church, reads from the Book of Ruth at Nottingham High School (Dennis Nett | dnett@syracuse.com).

We want to make sure that everybody adheres to our code of conduct and is respectful of all the folks in our learning environment, Superintendent Anthony Davis said at Wednesdays board meeting.

After a brief encounter on April 16 between students rehearsing for a musical and churchgoers socializing in the doorway after a service, parents and students expressed outrage over Radiants presence in the building.

Syracuse administrators told syracuse.com | The Post-Standard at the time that they legally had no choice but to allow religious groups to use the school for worship services, an interpretation that was contradicted by two legal experts and the districts own board policy.

Were really trying to figure out how this one got approved, said Twiggy Billue, a school board member, while speaking with a concerned parent after a board meeting in July.

On Wednesday night the board unanimously voted for the new policy. The members who voted were Tamica Barnett, Katie Sojewicz, Dan Romeo, and Karen Cordano. Twiggy Billue, Nyatwa Bullock and Mark Muhammad were not at the meeting.

Syracuse School District Board President Tamica Barnett and Superintendent Anthony Davis at a board meeting (Melissa Newcomb|mnewcomb@syracuse.com).

The code of conduct includes a non-discrimination notice that calls for equal access to educational opportunities regardless of sexual orientation. It also ensures that it will enable students to improve and correct behaviors that do not contribute to a welcoming school environment.

Due to summer programs, Radiant Church could not use the building for July and August. Jason Lankford, Radiants lead pastor, previously told syracuse.com|The Post-Standard that the church would return afterward and hoped to be holding Sunday service at the school for years to come.

But Radiant Church has not submitted an application to facilities to resume using Nottingham. It is hosting services at Drumlins. Lankford has not responded to requests on whether Radiant will try to return to Nottingham.

Hopefully with the new policy we can be more proactive and knowledgeable about who is in the buildings, Barnett said.

Watchdog/Public Affairs reporter Melissa Newcomb covers education, including Syracuse University and the city schools. For tips, contact her anytime at mnewcomb@syracuse.com, 315-679-1068, or @melissarnewcomb on Twitter.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Shortly after a new recreational program for babies and toddlers started at the Syracuse park where he works, Johnnie Tookes learned many families were struggling to afford diapers.

I was thinking to myself, Dont we have a diaper bank or something like that in Syracuse? Tookes said.

It didnt take long for him to jump on a computer and find an answer  the CNY Diaper Bank. Tookes sent the organization an email and had a response in 30 minutes. He passed the information along to his bosses, and now the idea is about to become a real service for a group of city families.

The Syracuse Common Council last week unanimously approved a resolution for the city to contract with the CNY Diaper Bank and become a distribution partner through its neighborhood community centers.

We just got the ball rolling, said Tookes, a senior recreation leader who has worked in the citys parks and recreation department for 20 years. Its just kind of knowing people in the area and whats needed.

Corey Driscoll Dunham, the citys chief operations officer, told councilors the distributions will start at the site where Tookes is based, the Wilson Park Community Center by the Interstate 81 viaduct and Pioneer Homes. Officials hope it could expand to other neighborhood recreation centers throughout the city.

Tookes suggestion grew out of discussions parks and recreation department staff have been having in recent years about expanding community center services to include more activities beyond summer and after-school programs, said Chris Abbott, Syracuses deputy commissioner of parks, recreation and youth programs.

The Wilson Park Community Center on South McBride Street in Syracuse will be launching a program in partnership with the CNY Diaper Bank that will give families in the center's programs to access to free diapers. (Jeremy Boyer | JBoyer@syracuse.com)

We wanted to open the doors for (parent/toddler programs), and it kind of grew from there, Abbott said.

The CNY Diaper Bank is an eager partner. The organization started in 2016 after its founder, Michela Hugo, discovered that the cost of diapers is not covered by social services programs such as Women, Infants and Children, food stamps or Medicaid and wanted to do something to help families with that expense. The organization raises money and accepts donations of diapers, which it then distributes to nearly 50 family service agencies to hand out for free to their clients.

Since its founding, more than 4 million free diapers have been provided to families in need. That includes 1.8 million diapers, or $550,000 worth, distributed in 2022, according to the diaper banks annual report.

Partner agencies include food pantries, health care organizations, churches and addiction treatment providers. Hugo said this is the agencys first arrangement with a municipal parks and recreation department, and shes excited about reaching more families.

Our goal is to get as many diapers to as many families in as many ways as possible, she said.

The contract starts on Oct. 1, but a launch date for the diaper service and the details of how it would work still need to be finalized.

Hugo said the diaper bank has ample supplies to meet the needs of families served at Wilson Park. The organization and the city will actively monitor the program to gauge demand and the city staffs capacity to handle more distribution beyond Wilson, but shes confident in the partnership.

We think that its going to be a long-term relationship, she said.

The councils approval of the contract with the diaper bank comes as the organization is preparing to host one its community awareness events. As part of National Diaper Need Awareness Week, the bank and Early Childhood Alliance are holding a Downtown Diaper Walk on Thursday, Sept. 21. The walk begins at 11:30 a.m. at Syracuse City Hall, 233 E. Washington St., and ends at Salt City Market on South Salina St.

Participants are encouraged to make monetary donations or bring diapers (size six is the biggest need currently). Visit cnydiaperbank.org/events to learn more.

Michela Hugo , founder of the CNY Diaper Bank, stands amid pallets of diapers in a 2019 photo. Stan Linhorst

City reporter Jeremy Boyer can be reached at jboyer@syracuse.com, (315) 657-5673, Twitter or Facebook.
Liverpool, NY  The village of Liverpool has passed a local law banning tractor-trailers and other large trucks from entering any of its streets.

Now that new law may have some big teeth behind it. The village wants to raise fines from $50 per violation to as much as $4,700, depending on the size of the truck.

A $50 fine is nothing, Liverpool Mayor Stacy Finney told syracuse.com | The Post-Standard. The fines have to actually be a deterrent.

The previous Liverpool village law banned tractor-trailers and heavy trucks only from residential streets in the village. Violators were subject to fines of $50.

The new law, passed unanimously by the village board on July 10, bans tractor-trailers and other trucks weighing 5 tons or more from all Liverpool streets.

The only exceptions would be trucks that travel into the village for local deliveries.

The proposed fines would start at $1,200 for a truck 5 to 7.5 tons and escalate to $4,700 for a truck weighing 22.5 tons.

A public hearing to consider the proposed fines is set for 7 p.m. Sept. 25 at Liverpool Village Hall.

Even if the new fines are adopted by village trustees, they likely wont take effect immediately, Finney said.

The village first wants to install large signs advising truck drivers of the new law and weight restrictions. They have ordered several signs and these wont arrive until sometime in October.

The village also is sending out certified letters to local businesses and trucking companies to advise them of the new law and likely penalties.

We need to get the word out before we start enforcing the law with fines, she said.

There are plenty of alternate routes truckers can take to avoid the village, Finney said.

Once we get the word out we will really crack down on violators the first month,' she said.

A village study documented a surge of truck traffic at one of the villages busiest intersections, which in part led the village to draft the prohibitions. Finney said truck traffic increased significantly last year after Amazon opened a $350 million distribution center off Morgan Road, just outside of Liverpool.

The streets in the village are narrow, Finney said, and lead to overcrowding on the streets.

Also, she believes the heavier truck traffic is related to a surge in the number of big trucks that mistakenly travel from Oswego Road in Liverpool onto Onondaga Lake Parkway, where tractor-trailers have been banned for decades.

So far this year, six trucks crashed into the parkways low railroad bridge owned by CSX Transportation, and half those trucks were going to or from Amazons distribution center.

Liverpool paid for a traffic study that found Amazon was the single-largest source of trucks entering one of the villages main intersections. The study by the Barton and Loguidice engineering firm found that 331 tractor-trailers entered the intersection of Tulip and Oswego streets in a 72-hour period in January.

Finney has said she also hopes the states lane reductions on Onondaga Lake Parkway also lead to fewer trucks driving through the village.

Elizabeth Doran covers education, suburban government and development, breaking news and more. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact her anytime 315-470-3012 or email edoran@syracuse.com
Consequences far exceeded the offense

To the Editor:

As we await the New York State Attorney Generals report on the sheriffs shooting of two teens, I simply would like to pose this question to those who are so quick and eager to pass judgment on the teens who were killed: Since when is the death penalty an appropriate consequence for car theft and burglary? If the perpetrators were white, suburban teens, do you believe the death penalty would be appropriate for the alleged crime?

We do not live in Saudi Arabia or Iran, in which the death penalty is imposed for speaking out against the government or for failing to wear a head scarf appropriately. We live in the United States of America. We are supposed to be different. Law enforcement agents are not hired to be judge, jury and executioners.

Judy Holmes

Syracuse

Video disproves sheriffs explanation of shooting

To the Editor:

Last week, two teens were killed in DeWitt in the midst of committing a burglary. It is very easy to dismiss their deaths as being their fault and giving the police officer full exoneration to do what he did because, after all, when you rob and steal, there are numerous risks  and getting shot is one of them. But after watching the video of the shooting and reading Sheriff Toby Shelleys explanation of what happened, there is a disconnect between reality and the official police version. At the very least, there was a breakdown in procedure with the officer knowing he was getting into a possibly dangerous situation, yet not turning on his body camera. The sheriff stating that there wasnt enough time to turn it on is weak. As much effort goes into turning on the body camera as it does to turn on the siren or draw your gun. And as far as having nowhere to escape from the car barreling at him, well, the video shows the truth of the matter. And thank God for a surveillance camera, because without it, you would only have Shelleys interpretation of events.

Police work is not easy. It is dangerous. But police should be held to a higher standard than the criminal. Too often, the narrative according to police is one-sided and taken as fact by the public. Too often, the police version is flawed. Shelleys interpretation of the video and his statement to the public are flawed. I have full confidence in Attorney General Letitia James unravelling the facts to expose the truth on yet another incident involving excessive police force.

As for Shelley, I have lost all confidence in him. Hed rather protect one of his own knowing procedures werent followed and protocols were ignored.

Russell Flax

Tully

Was deputy trained to avoid this type of confrontation?

To the Editor:

In regard to the killing of two teenagers by a sheriffs deputy:

It does not look like self-defense, as the officer was in the clear as the car sped away. Here again, if the police backed away, an arrest could have been made later, since the car couldnt have gone very far.

How about the training program which was supposed to avoid instances such as this?

Ken Gray

Minoa

Related:

Deputy who killed Syracuse teens fired some shots into front windshield of stolen car, DA says

Video of deputy shooting teens leaves experts uncertain: What was his purpose for firing?

After seeing video of deputy shooting teens, Syracuse community calls for protest and patience

Sheriff Toby Shelley says he stands by deputy who fatally shot two Syracuse teens
Unless youve had your head buried in the sand this summer, youve probably heard of the Merlin Bird ID App. Its a creation of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology that allows you to identify birds you see or hear, with ease. Over the course of this year, its been downloaded by millions of people who use it to identify thousands of species of birds based on their song.

And the man behind the app is a Syracuse local named Drew Weber.

The Merlin app has caught the attention of veteran bird watchers, newcomers, and news outlets like CBS Good Morning and USA Today. Its basically Shazam for birds. The Sound ID feature listens to the birds around you and shows real-time suggestions for what birds are singing. You can also snap a photo of a bird, or pull one in from your camera roll, and Photo ID will offer a short list of possible matches. Both Sound and Photo ID work completely offline, so you can identify birds no matter where you are.

Weber, the apps creator, lives in the Comstock neighborhood. He moved here about 10 years ago after his wife, Justine, took a job with SUNY ESF.

Weber grew up in Reading, Pennsylvania. As a youngster, he says that his father was casually into bird watching. Together they tried to identify various species when on walks. It was not until he got older that he realized there was a whole community of bird watchers out there, and that there was even a chance to work in the field with them.

Weber attended Goshen College in Indiana and graduated with a degree in environment studies in 2006. His first job outside of college was working with an organization, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, where he counted migrating hawks and eagles. His work history also includes a stint with the Wild Birds Unlimited near Fayetteville.

Weber got involved in mobile apps soon after the launch of the iPhone, helping develop an app called BirdsEye that helps people find birds. When the Cornell Lab jumped into the mobile app arena, they hired Weber as project manager. He commutes to Cornell twice a week while spending his remaining time in Syracuse.

Drew Weber, creator of the Merlin Bird ID app, walks along the Onondaga Lake trail, searching for birds. David Haas | contributing writer

When the app first launched, it had the ability to identify 200 species. Today, that number has ballooned to 10,300 species.

Weber is able to identify a bird flying 1,000 feet away by a smile strip or a flap of the wing.

During Covid he spent much of his time on and around Onondaga Lake, noting the billion-dollar clean up undertaken by Honeywell that returned portions of the area back to its natural habitat. The West Shore Trail that opened upon completion allows visitors to walk/ride in an area that was previously only observable from afar.

Its a perfect place for bird watching.

During that time, Weber identified more than 240 different bird species in Onondaga County alone. Thats an incredible feat  there are only about 500 bird species in the entire state. Drew has uploaded a list of all the birds by photo, audio, and video that he has seen in Onondaga County and has cataloged them here.

Weber credits much of the apps growth to the broader bird community across the world. The apps popular sound identification feature was only made possible after users uploaded more than a million recording clips.

Its not just the nerdy people anymore, everyone is joining in, he said. Over the past year, 1 out of every 67 people in the US has used the app.

The app is technically in its infancy. Other features such as social sharing, quizzes, and teaching field skills are planned for the future, Weber said. Long-term, the hope is that the app can bend the curve, back in the favor of birds.

Since 1970, there has been a decline of 3 billion North American birds, or a loss of 30% in population. If more folks are appreciating birds, if the app can put this message in front of people, maybe, Weber hopes, there is a way to turn things around.

READ MORE

How Canadian wildfires and extreme weather fueled a furious crop of poison ivy in CNY this summer

Catskills hiker injured while escaping Predator is rescued by forest rangers

Oneida Lake angler has Jaws moment as she battles sturgeon too big for boat (video)

2 Tipp Hill kids just became the first NY siblings (and first girl) to make the Super Bowl of youth bass fishing
Last week a house on West Elm Street in Oneida exploded hours after a stolen vehicle crashed into it, severing a gas line. Six other houses on the street were evacuated. No one was injured.

During the late-night evacuation police discovered a six-point white-tailed deer caged inside a large dog crate in a neighboring garage. The homeowner was illegally rehabilitating the animal and refused to release it, choosing instead to keep it as a pet.

A New York State Department of Environmental Conservation police officer (ECO) assisted emergency personnel with removing the deer. Charges are pending and the investigation is ongoing.

The following reports are excerpted from DEC:

ECOs confiscated two pythons in Manhattan from two men who were charging people money to have their picture taken with the snakes, which require a DEC permit to possess and are subject to additional New York City regulations.

On Aug. 19, two guys wrapped pythons around their shoulders and walked around Battery Park in Manhattan, asking people for money to take pictures with the snakes. The pythons in questiona six-foot Burmese and a 12-foot reticulatedrequire a DEC permit to possess and are subject to additional New York City regulations. ECOs along with New York City Parks Enforcement Patrol and U.S. Park Police ticketed the men and safely removed the snakes using techniques theyd learned in recent training.

On Sept. 4, a boat struck a loggerhead turtle in the state Boat Channel near Golgotha Beach Marina. The 175-pound turtle couldnt swim on its own, so ECOs pulled it aboard their boat. The turtle had multiple fractures and was taken to a rescue center for treatment.

A man from Deerpark, in Orange County, pleaded not guilty to charges related to the illegal commercialization of trout following a months-long undercover operation by ECOs who bought $745 worth of wild trout from the man. Its illegal to sell wild trout in New York state.

On August 14, a resident of Deerpark, in Orange County, pleaded not guilty to charges related to the illegal commercialization of trout. The arraignment followed a months-long undercover investigation by ECOs who bought 40 pounds of wild brook trout from the suspect. Valued at $745, the trout were caught in the Neversink River, sealed in plastic bags, and offered for sale on social media. Its illegal to sell wild trout in New York state, as well as Atlantic salmon, black bass, walleye, muskellunge, and venison.

ECOs conducted fish compliance checks in Albany, Queens, and Suffolk counties between Aug. 26 - Sept. 4 and issued tickets for 11 undersized blue claw crabs caught by net in a restricted area of the Hudson River at Green Island Dam; and 354 snappers (juvenile blue fish) illegally caught with a seine net in Jamaica Bay, Queens.

In July, DEC personnel traced the smell of petroleum and a visible sheen on Lasher Creek, a tributary to the Mohawk River, to a nearby business that spilled approximately 200 gallons of fuel oil. The property owner was recently fined $3,975 and will pay for clean up.

On Aug. 28, a criminal court in Montgomery County reached a final determination in a case involving a petroleum spill in the town of Root. In July, DEC personnel traced the smell of petroleum and a visible sheen on Lasher Creek, a tributary to the Mohawk River, to a nearby business. The property owner had an equipment failure two days earlier that had spilled approximately 200 gallons of fuel oil, which they didnt report or try to clean up. The property owner was fined $3,975 and will pay for clean up.

On Sept. 3, a disabled vessel partially anchored in the Niagara River near the Peace Bridge drifted downstream in the rivers strong currents toward a rocky pier. ECOs on boat patrol assisted the boat operator and crew in getting the boat back to the nearest dock.



Sign up for the CNY Outdoors Newsletter

Enter your email address to get weekly updates on CNY outdoors news delivered to your inbox:









READ MORE

New York conservation cops rescue injured eagle, owl - syracuse.com

Upstate New York deer poacher gets jail time for unpaid fines on multiple violations - newyorkupstate.com

Upstate New York man charged for killing bear, hiding it under swimming pool - newyorkupstate.com

Conservation cops catch Upstate NY anglers for netting 71 fish, ticket tree thief - syracuse.com

New Jersey hikers hauled chairs up Catskills highest peak, ticketed for leaving them - syracuse.com

Steve Featherstone covers the outdoors for The Post-Standard, syracuse.com and NYUP.com. Contact him at sfeatherstone@syracuse.com or on Twitter @featheroutdoors. You can also follow along with all of our outdoors content at newyorkupstate.com/outdoors/ or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/upstatenyoutdoors.
Sign up for Reckons latest newsletter dedicated to the fight for reproductive justice, a weekly repro rundown covering the good, the fair-to-middlin' and the ugly in repro news. Enter your email to subscribe to Reproductive Justice with Reckon.

While Michigan is more abortion-friendly than most of its Midwestern neighbors, like Indiana,whose near total abortion ban went into effect last month, reproductive justice advocates say the current standards for carrying out the law are not justifiable.

Though abortion is legal, other laws and policies in place in Michigan create barriers to abortion care that make it inconvenient, at best, for some folks to receive abortions and for clinics to provide them.

A right isnt really your right if it isnt available and accessible to everyone in the state, said Rep. Laurie Pohutsky.

Enter the Reproductive Health Act, a series of 11 bills aiming to broaden access to care that the state constitution says Michiganers are entitled to. With 54% of residents receiving abortions being Black women, and the Upper Peninsula coverage desert, this legislation would especially impact Black and rural communities, as well as folks traveling from states with abortion bans who may not be aware of Michigans laws.

With Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer expressing support and a slight Democratic majority, advocates are hopeful this third time will be the charm.

Students and grassroots orgs worked overtime to drive support for its predecessor

In the 2022 General Election Michiganers voted yes on Ballot Proposal 3, or Prop 3, amending the states constitution and enforcing reproductive freedom as a right.

Student organizations like Planned Parenthood Generation Action at Michigan State University (MSU), worked overtime to ensure their peers were educated on why the proposal mattered.

We were canvassing and gathering signatures on campus as soon as we could get it in our hands I think we were the first people to get trained for it, said student secretary Mackenzie Lovell.

Nearly 23% of MSUs Fall 2022 entering class were out-of-staters, many of whom were not yet registered to vote in Michigan. Lovell says the group killed two birds with one stone, helping students register and learn about Prop 3.

The reason that we have the Reproductive Health Act is because Prop 3 was passed, Lovell said. Now we can go further. And examine where those barriers are and try to resolve them.

Nearly 57% of voters supported Prop 3, according to the New York Times. While many considered this a win, Jaime Fitzgerald, founding member of the Michigan Coalition for Reproductive Liberation saw it as a warning.

That doesnt sound like a landslide to me, that sounds dangerously close, Fitzgerald said, especially considering the fact that Michigan is considered a swing state.

Both Fitzgerald and Planned Parenthood Generation Action MSU say that they continue to combat the misconception that passing Prop 3 ended the fight for reproductive justice in the state.

Truly a lot of people just are unaware that anything is still happening after Prop 3 got passed, said Fitzgerald.

It would repeal laws that make it harder to get abortions, especially in rural areas

TRAP laws, or targeted regulation of abortion providers, are rules that some states make for places where people go for abortion or other reproductive care. They force reproductive care clinics to meet standards beyond what is necessary to perform safe abortions.

In Michigan this means abortion providing facilities are required to meet the standards of surgical centers, even though many of them do not perform surgery and only offer medication abortion.

Rep. Pohutsky says its important to note that these regulations are not enforced for health standards but rather to prevent people from getting abortions.

These TRAP laws have always been medically unnecessary. They have not been about patient safety. Theyve not been about healthcare. They have been about limiting access to abortion, plain and simple, she said.

The effects of these laws are especially heavy in rural areas. Abortion facilities in Michigan must be within 30 minutes of a hospital, according to the law, leaving many communities without an easily accessible option.

We have a large swath of an abortion desert in Michigan. If you live in northern Michigan or up in the UP [Upper Peninsula], you may have to drive, you know, hundreds and hundreds of miles to access abortion care. And then when you get there, you may be told that youd have to wait 24 hours because you didnt fill out the right form, explained Pohutsky.

Other TRAP regulations include a structural standard corridor width and specific sizing for procedure rooms. According to Guttmacher, only 9 states specify the size of procedure rooms and 8 states specify corridor width.

We have laws on the books that already regulate and monitor all health care facilities. All this [the RHA] is doing is removing the ability for the state to assert its preference about abortion and force it onto patients, she said.

Although only three of Planned Parenthoods Michigan locations provide in-clinic abortion, all 14 of its brick-and-mortar clinics need to meet these standards to remain in operation.

We dont need an operating room to take medication, said Rylee Warner, president of Planned Parenthood Generation Action MSU.

These TRAP laws are making it so that people are still deadlocked and not being able to get an abortion even though its been enshrined as a right So that begs the question, what is the definition of a right, if thats what theyre trying to pass off to us as, something inalienable, said Fitzgerald.

But it would not repeal parental consent policies

Minors in Michigan cannot receive abortion without the written consent of at least one parent or legal guardian.

While earlier versions of the RHA intended to repeal this requirement, this proved to be one of the more combatted parts of the legislation, said Rep. Pohutsky.

When you are forcing minors to be parents, thats a decision that they [the minor] should have some say in, and unfortunately thats a controversial position to hold, says Fitzgerald.

It was removed in the hopes of passing the act.

We are seeking to try and get as much of this through as quickly as possible and around that parental consent piece we unfortunately just need a little bit more time to do some more education with folks, both legislators and frankly, some of our constituents too, she said.

Parental consent requirements have been widely debated across the country, although the CDC reports that only about 8% of patients receiving abortions in the U.S. are minors..

Thats a barrier and its a barrier that I very strongly think should be removed but with some people, with some more moderate Democrats, it may be a deal breaker, Lovell told Reckon.

It would make it easier for people to travel to Michigan for reproductive care

Illinois and Michigan are outliers on the map of the Midwest, with less restrictions than their neighbors. Harsh restrictions lead those living in places with abortion bans to travel to less restricted states to receive reproductive care.

According to Planned Parenthood of Michigan, abortion travel to their clinics tripled after Roe fell. Though 2023 data has not been released, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported 27,359 of the states 30,120 abortions performed last year were from local residents. Were seeing folks from other states that have abortion bans in place, come here and also face the same challenges, said Pohutsky, referencing the 24-hour waiting period and Informed Consent Confirmation Form.

Many prospective patients arent aware of the waiting period requirement, which adds additional time and financial burdens that some simply cannot afford. Lovell points out taking time off of work, potential childcare, lodging expenses and travel arrangements as some of the things travelers have to consider.

Thats money theyre losing possibly if they dont get so many sick days off and then when they get here and they realize they have to do that all again for another day because you have to wait that 24 hours, it just adds an unnecessary financial burden, Lovell said.
NEW YORK (AP)  The Hudson River snakes through forests and rushes over boulders in the Adirondack Mountains before settling into a wide, slow flow closer to New York City. It stretches 315 miles (507 kilometers) from source to end.

Lewis Pugh finished swimming all of it on Wednesday morning.

The 53-year-old endurance swimmer emerged from the water off the lower tip of Manhattan after a month-long journey, clad in a Speedo, cap and goggles. He smiled and raised his fist in triumph as he climbed out. Supporters who had gathered despite light rain at Battery Park cheered.

Its incredibly tough to swim for 30 days, Pugh told reporters at a news conference. And yes, it does take an enormous toll on you. But I can honestly say I feel rejuvenated.

Pugh has powered through fatigue and sore shoulders for weeks. He has dodged tugboats and bobbing plastic garbage. And he insisted that any discomfort was worth it to highlight the Hudson and the importance of clean rivers.

Seeing the Statue of Liberty on the horizon and seeing that beautiful torch, it just made me think that every single thing which we hold dear to us depends on us being able to drink clean water and breathe fresh air and take care of our planet so that is habitable, he said. Rivers are the arteries of our planet.

The Plymouth, England resident has taken other high-profile swims, including one 76 miles (123 kilometers) long across the Red Sea and a 328-mile (528-kilometer) swim the length of the English Channel.

Lewis Pugh, a British endurance swimmer who is swimming the entire 315-miles of the Hudson River from the Adirondacks to New York City to highlight the critical role rivers play in a habitable planet, swims a section of the river, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023, in Castleton, N.Y. (AP Photo/Hans Pennink)

Swimming the length of the Hudson has been done before, by Christopher Swain in 2004. While Swain wore a wetsuit, Pugh swam in a Speedo, generally trying to cover 10 miles (16 kilometers) a day.

For a recent leg south of Albany recently, he snapped his cap and goggles over his head before jumping feet first from the inflatable boat accompanying him. He made sure to first take a swig from a bottle of Pepto-Bismol, a nod to the less-than-pristine water. He also rinsed with an antiseptic mouthwash, washed up with surgical soap and wore ear plugs.

Support team members followed in the boat and a kayak.

The latter half of Pughs swim was on the Hudson estuary, the section of river affected by the tides that stretches from New York Harbor to above Albany. He tried to swim with the tide, but he said wind and choppy water could make progress more difficult.

Imagine driving down a dirt road which has been corrugated, and that thats the feeling when youre swimming into this chop for hour after hour after hour, he said before swimming a recent leg.

The challenges were different when Pugh started on Aug. 13 at Lake Tear of the Clouds, high on Mount Marcy. In the Adirondacks, parts of the river are too shallow to swim, so Pugh ran along the banks. Other fast-flowing stretches have enough rocks to create what Pugh calls a high consequence environment.

Im just in a Speedo, cap and goggles, he said. And so if you hit a rock, youre really going to come off second best.

Lewis Pugh, a British endurance swimmer who is swimming the entire 315-miles of the Hudson River from the Adirondacks to New York City to highlight the critical role rivers play in a habitable planet, swims a section of the river, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023, in Castleton, N.Y. (AP Photo/Hans Pennink)

Pugh had to take terrestrial detours around waterfalls, dams and locks, although he was able to swim through one lock. Those obstacles disappeared on the estuary, which becomes wider with more development crowding the shores.

The Hudson was notorious decades ago for being tainted by everything from industrial chemicals to old tires and sewer runoff. Even as late as 2004, when Swain swam the length of the river to encourage its continued cleanup, a New York Post headline read: Love That Dirty Water; Eco-Nut Swims The Slimy Hudson River.

Cleanups and tighter regulations have helped slowly transform the river into a summer playground for more kayaks, sailboats and even swimmers. The water is still not perfect. Sewage overflows into parts of the Hudson after heavy rains, for instance.

Still, Pugh said Wednesday that the Hudson River is still a powerful example of how a waterway can rebound.

We must also never forget the history of the Hudson, because we came with saws and we hacked down the forests and we built factories and we poured industrial waste into the river ... this river became a dumping ground, Pugh said. But then in the 1970s, New Yorkers said, Enough is enough.
ABS joins landmark project for dual-fuel Ammonia carrier

ABS joins project partners EPS, HHI and HHI Engine & Machinery Division, MAN Energy Solutions and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore to review a new design from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for a dual-fuel, very large ammonia carrier (VLAC) for Eastern Pacific Shipping Pte. Ltd.

(SINGAPORE) At Gastech 2023, ABS signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to review an innovative new design from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) for a dual-fuel, very large ammonia carrier (VLAC) for Eastern Pacific Shipping Pte. Ltd. (EPS). ABS joins project partners EPS, HHI and HHI Engine & Machinery Division, MAN Energy Solutions and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore. Fueled by ammonia and liquified natural gas (LNG), the 88K/93K cbm vessel design is expected to meet the demand for greenhouse gas reduction, in compliance with the latest International Maritime Organization (IMO) emission regulations. Four vessels are planned for construction at the HHI Ulsan shipyard in Korea. ABS is honored to join EPS and this esteemed group of companies. With our technical expertise, long successful history with gas carriers and cutting-edge work in decarbonization and sustainability, we are the ideal partner to join this project. ABS is committed to leading the industry in supporting ammonias safe adoption at sea, said John McDonald, ABS President and COO. EPS CEO Cyril Ducau said: We have been talking about energy transition and lowering emissions for years. Today, we are ready to talk about zero-emission solutions. The ammonia engines by MAN ES will be an inflection point for the maritime industry. In the next few years, we expect to operate vessels with significantly reduced emissions running on ammonia. Dual-fuel engines like LNG, LPG, and ethane will still play a significant role in various segments. However, with this engine, it will mean that this will be the first time that ocean going vessels will take a significant step towards zero carbon emissions. This is a an extremely exciting time for all of us.




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.
Teagasc Crops Forum Mapping the Future for Tillage Farming in Ireland

The Teagasc Crops Forum discussed the latest agronomy issues facing farmers and also how to shape the future of the tillage industry. It took place as a hybrid event, in the Killashee Hotel, Naas, County Kildare and also as a live webinar.

Pictured at the Teagasc Crops Forum 2023, which took place on the 8th September in the Killashee Hotel, Naas, Co. Kildare and as a live webinar are (L to R): Andy Doyle, session chair; Darren Allen, Signpost Tillage Programme Participant; John Spink and Gary Lanigan, Teagasc; Professor Frank OMeara, Director of Teagasc; Michael Hennessy and Ewen Mullins, Teagasc; Andrew Owen-Griffiths, EU DG Health and Food Safety Division; Cara MacAodhain, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM); John Mahon and Shay Phelan, Teagasc.

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) presented data on cereal varieties which are available to farmers this year. Cara Mac Aodhain from the DAFMs Crop Policy, Evaluation and Certification Division said; 2023 was an extremely challenging year for growing crops due to adverse weather. However, this year has provided invaluable information on the performance of varieties in such challenging conditions. These results are built onto the DAFM Recommended Lists which gives added confidence to growers to grow these varieties.

Andrew Owen Griffiths from the EU DG Health and Food Safety division updated the crops forum on the current use and target reductions in pesticide which the EU is seeking to implement. Andrew Owen Griffiths said; The ambition of EU policy is clear. Pesticide reductions will be a central area for action but there are a number of supports to help farmers and the industry in this transition, including funding for research, organic farming and developments using New Genomic Techniques.

Shay Phelan, a Tillage Specialist in Teagasc, built on the theme outlined by Andrew Owen-Griffiths on how to deploy Integrated Pest Management on farms through key areas such as better variety agronomic traits, monitoring pests, using available tools, etc., with pesticides used as the final control measure. Shay Phelan said; IPM will play a more important role in the future as we face into reduced availability of pesticides and increasing resistant issues.

Tillage farmers have a role in actions to address climate change, according to Dr Gary Lanigan Teagasc Climate Researcher who spoke at the Forum. Dr Lanigan said; Even though the CO 2 emissions from the tillage industry are much smaller than other industries, there are measures such as cover crops and straw incorporation, which all tillage farmers can put in place to reduce their farms emissions further.

John Mahon, Tillage Signpost Advisor in Teagasc, described the Teagasc Tillage Signpost Programme and how it is working with a network of farms. Darren Allen a farmer from Cork, is participating in the Signpost Programme, stepped through the actions which he is undertaking on his farm to reduce CO 2 emissions and improve the environment.

The final session of the Crops Forum addressed the future of the tillage sector with a panel discussion of key stakeholders across the industry. Andy Doyle chaired a robust discussion and summed up the discussion by saying, There is a bright future for the Tillage sector, but everyone in the industry from the policy makers, industry and farmers need to work hard to ensure any proposal made by the Food Vision Tillage Group are enacted as quickly as possible.

A full recording of the webinar is available on https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/crops/events/#forum23
antz.bin BHPian



Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: Pune Posts: 848 Thanked: 2,897 Times

Re: USA: New reverse-only parking spots in Los Angeles neighbourhood confuses motorists My takeaway is that if you park in reverse (or for parallel parking), you have to first pass the spot completely and then reverse into the spot. On a busy street, there could be traffic right behind you and it could be impossible to reverse into the spot since there is something blocking you.



Why make it reverse only?? Its just easier for cars to give way if someone is coming out of a parking spot boot first, than it is for them to move out of the way if someone starts reversing into them (to get into a reverse-only parking).



I understand that traffic situation might not be as bad as it is in Pune (with every sq. inch of space filled with traffic) but mandating reverse parking may not be the best possible solution to the problem. Its just easier to allow it both ways in the interest of driver convenience.
Sangwan BHPian



Join Date: Mar 2022 Location: Victoria/Rohtak Posts: 69 Thanked: 353 Times

View My Garage





re: Visiting San Josef Bay | The worlds 36th most beautiful beach Day 2:



On this day, we were going to see the beach, for which we came all the way to Port Hardy. So, there are parts of beach which get submerged if it is a high tide. There is a website where you can see the tide timings and I saw that from 11:30 AM onwards until 5:15 PM we will have time to see all of it as the tide will be low. Cape Scott is huge and there are numerous trails, you will need to camp there and stay at least 2-3 days I guess to cover all the trails, but lucky for us, the San Josef Bay was closest to the parking lot, and we felt that it will be an easy drive, but it was not. As soon as you take a left towards Cape Scott from Port Hardy, in 1 or 2 KMs the road vanishes and what's left is a dusty gravel road. It was okay, but everything was shaking inside the car and as the surface was rough and uneven, we made it to the parking lot at 11:00 AM. There was so much dust on the car, a wash was needed as soon as I reached back home.



On the notice board, it said that we are in Wolf Country and need to walk in a group, make noises and scare away the wolf/bear if we see any. I will be honest; it is a bit unsettling because the probability of it happening was low as there were people around but still there is a fear of what if we encounter one. We started the trail which was of 2.7 KMs and it was beautiful, it was easy, the only downers were the bees and mosquitoes constantly buzzing around, in around 40 mins, we saw the San Josef Bay beach and already while were moving on the trail, people returning were just saying that this is magnificent and indeed it was!



You know how, in so many travelogues, we read the line the pics dont do justice, you have to see it with your own eyes, it was one of those sights. There was this big beach full of white sand which we do not see much in Canada, at least the places where I have been, and then there is this small beach on the left and a bit larger on the right, which are only accessible when the tide is low. It was windy but the wind was not that strong, and it was very relaxing as we just came out of the hike and then there were these mountains on both sides, which had these dark clouds flowing through them, overall, very pleasing scene to the eyes. The sand near the hike area was getting hot due to the sun but the more you went towards the water, the better it got and when the water comes up, it is cold but when it recedes, it is warm, and it feels fabulous. We spent 3-4 hours at the beach before the high tide started coming back and this time, I took my son in my arms and we were off and did the hike in 30 mins, it was tiring but it was quick and saved us time.



Remember, the gravel road I mentioned earlier, well as I had driven on it now for once, I was quick this time and it was fun because I was able to push the car a little and there was this RAM 1500 truck which followed me all the way, he never tried to overtake me and we had this bond formed, we were together till the very end and then parted ways as soon as the roads got better. We reached the hotel and returned to yet another beach! it was Storeys beach in Fort Rupert, around 10 Kms away from the hotel and as expected, in less than 10 mins, we were sitting on a wooden log, kid throwing rocks in water and relaxing views again.



Towards San Josef Bay















Road ends and gravel road starts.



































Blue parked at Cape Scott Parking lot, look at the dust it gathered.















Information board.







San Josef Bay trail











































First glimpse of the beach.











On this day, we were going to see the beach, for which we came all the way to Port Hardy. So, there are parts of beach which get submerged if it is a high tide. There is a website where you can see the tide timings and I saw that from 11:30 AM onwards until 5:15 PM we will have time to see all of it as the tide will be low. Cape Scott is huge and there are numerous trails, you will need to camp there and stay at least 2-3 days I guess to cover all the trails, but lucky for us, the San Josef Bay was closest to the parking lot, and we felt that it will be an easy drive, but it was not. As soon as you take a left towards Cape Scott from Port Hardy, in 1 or 2 KMs the road vanishes and what's left is a dusty gravel road. It was okay, but everything was shaking inside the car and as the surface was rough and uneven, we made it to the parking lot at 11:00 AM. There was so much dust on the car, a wash was needed as soon as I reached back home.On the notice board, it said that we are in Wolf Country and need to walk in a group, make noises and scare away the wolf/bear if we see any. I will be honest; it is a bit unsettling because the probability of it happening was low as there were people around but still there is a fear of what if we encounter one. We started the trail which was of 2.7 KMs and it was beautiful, it was easy, the only downers were the bees and mosquitoes constantly buzzing around, in around 40 mins, we saw the San Josef Bay beach and already while were moving on the trail, people returning were just saying that this is magnificent and indeed it was!You know how, in so many travelogues, we read the line the pics dont do justice, you have to see it with your own eyes, it was one of those sights. There was this big beach full of white sand which we do not see much in Canada, at least the places where I have been, and then there is this small beach on the left and a bit larger on the right, which are only accessible when the tide is low. It was windy but the wind was not that strong, and it was very relaxing as we just came out of the hike and then there were these mountains on both sides, which had these dark clouds flowing through them, overall, very pleasing scene to the eyes. The sand near the hike area was getting hot due to the sun but the more you went towards the water, the better it got and when the water comes up, it is cold but when it recedes, it is warm, and it feels fabulous. We spent 3-4 hours at the beach before the high tide started coming back and this time, I took my son in my arms and we were off and did the hike in 30 mins, it was tiring but it was quick and saved us time.Remember, the gravel road I mentioned earlier, well as I had driven on it now for once, I was quick this time and it was fun because I was able to push the car a little and there was this RAM 1500 truck which followed me all the way, he never tried to overtake me and we had this bond formed, we were together till the very end and then parted ways as soon as the roads got better. We reached the hotel and returned to yet another beach! it was Storeys beach in Fort Rupert, around 10 Kms away from the hotel and as expected, in less than 10 mins, we were sitting on a wooden log, kid throwing rocks in water and relaxing views again.Towards San Josef BayRoad ends and gravel road starts.Blue parked at Cape Scott Parking lot, look at the dust it gathered.Information board.San Josef Bay trailFirst glimpse of the beach. Last edited by Sangwan : 13th September 2023 at 07:57 .
Jay_P2324 BHPian



Join Date: Oct 2022 Location: Mumbai Posts: 32 Thanked: 167 Times

Driving a GLS 400d to the Hills and Beaches Prologue: We did this trip in the Month on May but I couldnt find the time to write a travelogue but better late than never. It is mostly focused on the driving bit of the journey. I havent focused much on the restaurants and sightseeing.



Ever since we took delivery of our GLS in December, a road trip with it was always on our mind. The destination however was unsure. In March, we decided to travel to Ooty, and driving down there sounded even more fun. I checked the distance from home and it was about a 1300 km drive.



I always wanted to visit Wayanad, which is about 100kms away from Ooty and my sister wanted to stop in Goa on the way back.



I had the entire trip planned out but unfortunately, I could not accompany my family on the journey to Ooty due to some work.



My trip started on the 19th of May by taking a flight to Coimbatore and a taxi ride from Coimbatore to Ooty, where I was reunited with the mammoth!







Driving through the narrow lanes with this 7 seater was difficult during traffic time. I remember reading somewhere on the X3 M40i discussion where someone saying, if I remember correctly, that the BMW X5 is an ostentatious Bandra 1 BHK on wheels, that made me think, well then the GLS would be a 2 BHK on wheels













Driving through those narrow lanes with a wide car had me on my toes whenever a negligent tourist driver or a tempo traveller came by from the opposite side at high speed and well a mishap did happen. While driving from Ooty to Wayanad there were some road closures and we were diverted to an alternate route. A tempo traveller was in a hurry and dinged my drivers side ORVM. Fortunately, PPF took most of the damage.







We drove through the beautiful hills of Ooty onwards to Kerala and the drive was as scenic as it gets.



In a couple of hours we reached Wayanad and checked into our Hotel for Lunch. We did not do a lot of sightseeing in Wayannad just visited the Banasura Sagar Dam which happens to be Indias Largest Earth Dam.









Kerala truly feels like God's own country!











The next stop was supposed to be Goa but the time to get there was about 14 hours of nonstop driving. Since we were in a mood to relax and wanted a laid back vacation we decided to take a stop in Udupi. I wanted to skip the normal hotel room and wanted something by the beach. While looking for accommodations I came across this beach house which is about 30 kms north of Udupi. I was a bit skeptical at first but then went ahead with the booking.



We started around 10:00 AM from Wayanad for Udupi and decided to stop in Coorg for lunch. While driving from Coorg to Udupi we encountered some heavy rainfall which slowed down the pace a bit and we reached the beach house around 8:00 PM.







Somewhere near Coorg









Wayanad to Udupi



We spent the next day at the beach house. Again, this day was dedicated to long strolls on the beach and some fresh seafood.



















The following day, we left for Goa around 10:00 AM. The NH 66 is a beautiful 4 lane highway and I must say it is quite scenic too!







We reached Palolem for Lunch and proceeded towards North Goa. Spent a few days in Goa and relished on some delicious Goan Cuisine until it was time to head back to Mumbai.





Udupi to Goa





Upon reaching Goa I realised that the "i" from 4 Matic was missing, I checked the previous images, it had been missing since Ooty.



On our way back we took the route via Nipani. The road until Nipani is not in its best condition. Once we merged on the NH 48 we managed to keep up triple-digit speeds. Stopped for a delicious lunch in Kolhapur and proceeded towards Pune.



I found the drive back to be very tiring. The flyover work going on opposite Krishna Institute, Karad caused a long traffic jam. We also encountered the evening Pune city traffic. We reached home at around 12:00 AM



One aspect I hated the most about the drive back was the toll experience. The Government has said that if the queue is above 100 meters the toll is exempted but clearly I could not see any markings that would determine where the 100 meter territory begins. It is pointless to argue with the toll attendants. Fastag was supposed to make our lives easier but evidently that is not the case. Many western countries have a much better toll deduction system where one does not even need to bring their car to a halt. It feels really absurd that when there was a better technology available at the time of implementation of Fastag, still our government went ahead and invested so much money into the Fastag infrastructure and yet the situation is the same.









This was on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway!





Home Stretch



Apart from this, the trip was a beautiful one and I would do it again in a heartbeat. GLS is a fabulous vehicle, as a driver I would say that it did not put a smile on my face in the ghats as the X5 always does but the amount of comfort and luxury this car offers is unmatchable. At the time of writing this review the odometer on the car stands at about 11,000 kms and the car is 9 months old, thats how great the car is to be chauffeured around in. Ever since we took delivery of our GLS in December, a road trip with it was always on our mind. The destination however was unsure. In March, we decided to travel to Ooty, and driving down there sounded even more fun. I checked the distance from home and it was about a 1300 km drive.I always wanted to visit Wayanad, which is about 100kms away from Ooty and my sister wanted to stop in Goa on the way back.I had the entire trip planned out but unfortunately, I could not accompany my family on the journey to Ooty due to some work.My trip started on the 19th of May by taking a flight to Coimbatore and a taxi ride from Coimbatore to Ooty, where I was reunited with the mammoth!Driving through the narrow lanes with this 7 seater was difficult during traffic time. I remember reading somewhere on the X3 M40i discussion where someone saying, if I remember correctly, that the BMW X5 is an ostentatious Bandra 1 BHK on wheels, that made me think, well then the GLS would be a 2 BHK on wheelsDriving through those narrow lanes with a wide car had me on my toes whenever a negligent tourist driver or a tempo traveller came by from the opposite side at high speed and well a mishap did happen. While driving from Ooty to Wayanad there were some road closures and we were diverted to an alternate route. A tempo traveller was in a hurry and dinged my drivers side ORVM. Fortunately, PPF took most of the damage.We drove through the beautiful hills of Ooty onwards to Kerala and the drive was as scenic as it gets.In a couple of hours we reached Wayanad and checked into our Hotel for Lunch. We did not do a lot of sightseeing in Wayannad just visited the Banasura Sagar Dam which happens to be Indias Largest Earth Dam.The next stop was supposed to be Goa but the time to get there was about 14 hours of nonstop driving. Since we were in a mood to relax and wanted a laid back vacation we decided to take a stop in Udupi. I wanted to skip the normal hotel room and wanted something by the beach. While looking for accommodations I came across this beach house which is about 30 kms north of Udupi. I was a bit skeptical at first but then went ahead with the booking.We started around 10:00 AM from Wayanad for Udupi and decided to stop in Coorg for lunch. While driving from Coorg to Udupi we encountered some heavy rainfall which slowed down the pace a bit and we reached the beach house around 8:00 PM.We spent the next day at the beach house. Again, this day was dedicated to long strolls on the beach and some fresh seafood.The following day, we left for Goa around 10:00 AM. The NH 66 is a beautiful 4 lane highway and I must say it is quite scenic too!We reached Palolem for Lunch and proceeded towards North Goa. Spent a few days in Goa and relished on some delicious Goan Cuisine until it was time to head back to Mumbai.On our way back we took the route via Nipani. The road until Nipani is not in its best condition. Once we merged on the NH 48 we managed to keep up triple-digit speeds. Stopped for a delicious lunch in Kolhapur and proceeded towards Pune.I found the drive back to be very tiring. The flyover work going on opposite Krishna Institute, Karad caused a long traffic jam. We also encountered the evening Pune city traffic. We reached home at around 12:00 AMOne aspect I hated the most about the drive back was the toll experience. The Government has said that if the queue is above 100 meters the toll is exempted but clearly I could not see any markings that would determine where the 100 meter territory begins. It is pointless to argue with the toll attendants. Fastag was supposed to make our lives easier but evidently that is not the case. Many western countries have a much better toll deduction system where one does not even need to bring their car to a halt. It feels really absurd that when there was a better technology available at the time of implementation of Fastag, still our government went ahead and invested so much money into the Fastag infrastructure and yet the situation is the same.Apart from this, the trip was a beautiful one and I would do it again in a heartbeat. GLS is a fabulous vehicle, as a driver I would say that it did not put a smile on my face in the ghats as the X5 always does but the amount of comfort and luxury this car offers is unmatchable. At the time of writing this review the odometer on the car stands at about 11,000 kms and the car is 9 months old, thats how great the car is to be chauffeured around in.
What just happened? Belgium, Germany, and other European nations have said they will or could examine the health risks of the iPhone 12 after France banned the device from sale due to its radiation levels being above the allowed threshold.

It was reported yesterday that the ANFR, the French agency that regulates radio frequencies, had notified Apple of its decision to ban iPhone 12 sales after tests showed the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) exceeded the allowed limit. The ANFR said accredited labs had measured absorption of electromagnetic energy by the body at 5.74 watts per kilogram during tests simulating the phone being held in the hand or kept in a pocket, higher than the European standard absorption rate of 4.0 watts per kilogram.

France's junior minister for the digital economy, Jean-Noel Barrot, said, "In practical terms, this decision could have a snowball effect."

Reuters reports that Germany is watching the situation closely. The country's network regulator said it would also examine the iPhone 12's radiation concerns if France's probe advances sufficiently. Germany's network regulator BNetzA added that the work in France could act as a guide for Europe as a whole.

Belgium said it would review the potential health risks linked to the iPhone 12's radiation levels. Mathieu Michel, Belgium's state secretary for digitalization, said in a statement that he had reached out to the country's regulator to ask for an analysis about the potential danger of the 2020 handset.

The Netherlands is also looking into the matter and intends to ask Apple for an explanation, though the country's digital watchdog said there was "no acute safety risk." Italy is also monitoring the situation, and Spain's consumer association is urging an iPhone 12 ban similar to France's. Britain has not announced any plans.

Apple says it has provided France's ANFR with multiple Apple and independent third-party lab results proving its compliance with all applicable SAR regulations and standards in the world. The company added that it was contesting the results of ANFR's review and would continue to engage with the agency to show it is compliant.

The World Health Organization website states that numerous studies have shown "no adverse health effects have been established as being caused by mobile phone use." The safety limit thresholds, based on the risk of burns or heatstroke from the phone's radiation, are set well below those levels where scientists have found evidence of harm.

Given that it's a three-year-old model, a ban on iPhone 12 sales in multiple European countries is unlikely to significantly impact the $95 billion revenue Apple generates from sales in the continent.
The California Bill from Senator Nancy Skinner was recently defeated in the State Assembly, and this is the one that aims to require all electric vehicles in the state to feature bidirectional charging. Despite this, Senator Skinner is still optimistic about bringing this feature for all, for the public to enjoy and benefit from this technology that gives back to those in need.

Bidirectional charging has been making its mark in the electric vehicle industry, as more companies are adding this feature that is mostly marketed for emergencies.

No More Bidirectional Charging Requirement for EVs?

(Photo : DIMITAR DILKOFF/AFP via Getty Images)

The California Bill known as SB-233, introduced by Senator Nancy Skinner earlier this January has seen a significant roadblock to their plans of requiring all EVs to feature bidirectional charging.

CNET reported that the bill saw a sweeping approval by the Senate with a 29-9 vote, but did not fly in a state assembly, with the committee leaving a requirement to study it further. The report also said that Senator Skinner claimed she had decided not to move forward with this.

While the bill is already killed off and its sponsor no longer continuing, the hope is not yet lost for those who are looking forward to this and what it will bring soon. Sen. Skinner said that her office would be looking "for a new path forward to ensure that all California EV owners can benefit from an EV's potential to be a mini power plant on wheels."

Read Also: Polestar CEO Reveals Future Plans, Parked EVs to Generate Power Back to the Grid

California Bill Shut Down in State Assembly

The State Assembly committee wants to look more into what bidirectional charging requirements would pose in the market, but its decision has led to SB-233 getting shut down.

The Alliance for Automotive Innovation also penned a letter to the affairs director, mentioning their doubts on bidirectional charging and the other factors that would affect its operations in the future.

What is bidirectional charging for EVs?

Bidirectional charging is an iconic feature of a few electric vehicles now as it helps deliver power to other electronic devices hooked directly to the car. Think of it as a portable power generator, but has wheels and can take you to places.

One of the most iconic companies to first introduce this feature is Ford with its F-150 Lightning, with the electric pickup acting like a "power bank," and has previously partnered with Lenz to deliver this feature.

Nissan has also committed itself to present bidirectional charging with one of its most renowned EVs, the LEAF, also having the capability to power homes.

The latest joiner of this trend is General Motors, with the renowned automotive manufacturer recently announcing its plans to bring vehicle-to-home charging (V2H) or bidirectional charging to its Ultium EVs by 2026.

The California Bill, should it be passed in the future as a law, is looking to require all EVs in the state to feature bidirectional charging to also help power homes and other needs. However, it did not fly in the State Assembly as of now, but Senator Skinner is not yet backing down and is still looking to deliver this in the future.

Related Article: California Might Require All New EVs to be 'Bidirectional Capable' by 2027

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Sellers using Amazon's new tool will only have to give a short description of their product in just a few words or sentences. After that, the tool will do the rest, creating a product name, a description, and a list of important details.

(Photo : Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

DANDENONG, AUSTRALIA - DECEMBER 05: The Amazon website is seen on December 5, 2017 in Dandenong, Australia. Amazon has ended months of speculation by launching its local website overnight.

Launching AI Tool for Product Listing

Amazon is about to launch a smart tool that will make it easier for people selling things on their platform. This tool uses a powerful computer program that has learned a lot from a lot of information. It's meant to make the job of writing about products much simpler for sellers.

Engadget reported that the company says this tool can take all the work of coming up with names, short descriptions, and details and put it into one quick step. Sellers just need to give a short description of their product in a few words or sentences.

Then, the tool creates a full product listing with a title, description, and key points. Sellers can look at it and make changes if they want, but most of them found it good enough and didn't need to fix anything.

This feature was introduced during Amazon Accelerate, an annual conference in Seattle for the company's third-party sellers. In a report back in August, The Information mentioned that Amazon had been experimenting with this tool with a selected group of sellers.

Mary Beth Westmoreland, Amazon's Vice President, said this new tool will help sellers make great listings with less effort. It will also give shoppers better and more complete information about products, making their shopping experiences even better.

She stated, "This is just the tip of the iceberg on how we plan to use AI to help improve the seller experience and help more sellers succeed."

Convenience for Customers

Sellers have harnessed the power of OpenAI's ChatGPT to aid them in composing product listings, devising eye-catching titles, and brainstorming novel product concepts. Amazon has also recently embraced AI technology to condense customer reviews for specific products.

As per CNBC, these AI-driven tools are anticipated to provide sellers with an edge in the expansive and highly competitive third-party marketplace hosted by Amazon.

Since its inception in 2000, this marketplace has evolved into a central pillar of Amazon's e-commerce operations, boasting a multitude of merchants and contributing to more than half of the company's overall retail sales.

Also Read: Amazon Expands Supply Chain Services as Sellers Gain Distribution Flexibility



In recent months, Amazon stated on its press release that numerous sellers have had the opportunity to try out Amazon's latest AI tools, and the initial responses show that most of them are adopting the product descriptions generated by the AI model without any additional changes.

Simplifying the process of creating listings through AI is just a single facet of Amazon's broader strategy to facilitate the launch and growth of successful seller businesses. This is just the beginning of our AI-driven efforts aimed at enhancing the seller experience and fostering the success of even more sellers in the future.

Related Article: Amazon Partners With Shopify to Allow Sellers to Use Amazon's Logistics Network

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Tech leaders, including Mark Zuckerberg, Sam Altman, Satya Nadella, Jensen Huang, Sundar Pichai, and Elon Musk, gathered for a bipartisan AI Insight Forum in the Senate. This was orchestrated by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.

(Photo : Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 13: Google CEO Sundar Pichai (2nd L) and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg visit before attending the "AI Insight Forum" outside the Kennedy Caucus Room in the Russell Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on September 13, 2023 in Washington, DC. Advocating for Regulatory Framework to Ensure Safety

Prominent figures in the technology industry have advocated for a regulatory framework that strikes a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring safety. This call for regulation came to the forefront during a Senate insight forum aimed at gathering input for potential rulemaking.

The Verge reported that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, representing New York, orchestrated the bipartisan AI Insight Forum, which brought together key figures in the AI sector.

Among the notable attendees were Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Nvidia president Jensen Huang, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, and X chair Elon Musk.

It's worth noting that the forum was not open to the general public or the media, but several tech leaders either delivered prepared statements or shared their perspectives with reporters on the sidelines of the event.

Highlighting Companies' Commitments

In his prepared statement, Zuckerberg emphasized the importance of Congress engaging with AI to both foster innovation and establish necessary safeguards. He identified two pivotal aspects of AI: safety and accessibility.

Meta takes a proactive approach by incorporating safety measures into its generative AI models and carefully strategizing the deployment of AI-driven products. At the same time, Zuckerberg underscored the significant role powerful AI models will play in shaping future opportunities.

Zuckerberg highlighted Meta's commitment to open-sourcing its Llama 2 model, emphasizing the importance of granting wider access to AI models.

He reiterated his stance on the significance of striking a balance between regulation and innovation to ensure that the United States maintains its leadership position in the AI race, a viewpoint he has previously expressed.

Also Read: Tech Giants Penalized for Animal Abuse Content



Conversely, Elon Musk of X, who has ventured into the AI industry with a recent startup, expressed the need for a federal AI regulatory body.

Speaking to reporters outside the forum, Reuters reported that Musk emphasized the importance of having an impartial overseer to prevent unchecked AI product development by companies.

Facing Criticisms

Despite tech firms embracing the chance to engage with policymakers in a private setting, some raised apprehensions about the exclusive nature of the forum.

As per NPR's report, Senator Elizabeth Warren, representing Massachusetts, voiced her criticism and suggested that the closed-door forum served as a means for tech titans to exert influence over policy decisions.

Fears of regulatory capture, where major tech players shape the regulatory landscape to their advantage, emerged as prominent Big Tech firms active in AI advocated for regulatory measures, potentially disadvantaging smaller competitors.

Similar to this, lawmakers like Warren and Senator Edward Markey from Massachusetts also penned a letter addressed to significant AI corporations, seeking clarification on the working conditions of the human labor force involved in training and moderating AI models.

Related Article: Federal Regulators Eyeing to Create Guidelines for Using AI in Political Ads

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
NASA's James Webb Space Telescope is playing a pivotal role in addressing the perplexing cosmic problem called the "Hubble Tension." This enigma involves the variation between the Hubble Constant's value, which signifies the universe's expansion rate.

Nobel Laureate Adam Riess, affiliated with the Johns Hopkins University and the Space Telescope Science Institute, and his colleagues had publicly released their recent work.

Their research used James Webb Space Telescope's observations to enhance the precision of local measurements of the "Hubble Constant."

The Hubble Constant

The universe may appear unchanging, but all the things we see are actually moving away at a tremendous rate called the Hubble Constant.

The Hubble Constant is a fundamental parameter for unraveling the universe's history and ultimate fate, but measuring it returns different results.

One way to measure it is by looking at relics of the early universe, like remaining light in the cosmic microwave background or sound waves frozen in time.

The second method is by measuring the distances to objects with known intrinsic brightness, such as Cepheid variable stars. Astronomers employ Cepheid variable stars, known for their pulsating luminosity, which provides a basis for measuring their distances from Earth.

The duration of their pulsations indicates their intrinsic brightness, with more extended periods denoting greater luminosity. These supergiant stars, approximately a hundred thousand times brighter than the sun, serve as invaluable tools for gauging the distances of galaxies located millions or more light-years away.

However, a significant challenge arises when observing Cepheids within galaxies due to their proximity to other stars along our line of sight. The Hubble Space Telescope was conceived to mitigate this challenge, as its location above Earth's atmosphere minimizes optical distortions.

Hubble's advanced visible-wavelength resolution allows astronomers to identify individual Cepheids and track changes in their luminosity over time.

Nevertheless, Riess explained that a comprehensive understanding of these stars demands observations in the near-infrared spectrum to evade interference from interstellar dust. Dust primarily scatters and absorbs blue optical light, which can distort distance measurements.

Hubble's near-infrared capabilities are constrained compared to its blue light observations, often resulting in Cepheid starlight blending with nearby stars, introducing measurement noise.

In contrast, Webb excels in the near-infrared spectrum, effectively isolating Cepheid light from adjacent stars with minimal blending.

The initial step encompasses the examination of Cepheids in galaxies with known geometric distances, which calibrate the actual luminosity of these stars. The second step involves studying Cepheids in the host galaxies of recent Type Ia supernovae.

Webb's initial measurements from these steps enable the completion of the distance ladder, facilitating a comparison with Hubble's prior measurements.

Read Also: NASA Telescopes Unveil Striking Eagle Nebula Brimming with X-ray Hot Stars

Expanding Universe

The first method of measuring the Hubble Constant returns to an expansion rate of about 67 kilometers per second per megaparsec. The second is approximately 73 kilometers per second per megaparsec. According to Science Alert, the discrepancy between the two is known as the "Hubble Tension."

These findings have confirmed the accuracy of Hubble's earlier measurements. However, a disagreement between different measurement methods under the Hubble Tension reportedly remains intact.

"What the results still do not explain is why the universe appears to be expanding so fast! We can predict the expansion rate of the universe by observing its baby picture, the cosmic microwave background, and then employing our best model of how it grows up over time to tell us how fast the universe should be expanding today," Riess said.

"The fact that the present measure of the expansion rate significantly exceeds the prediction is a now decade-long problem called The Hubble Tension," he added.

Several possibilities exist to explain the Hubble Tension, ranging from the presence of exotic dark energy and dark matter to revisions in our understanding of gravity or the existence of unique cosmic elements.

While multiple measurement errors conspiring in the same direction could provide a more mundane explanation, Riess said the convergence of Webb's measurements with Hubble's lends stronger credence to more captivating explanations.

Webb's contribution reinforces the notion that systematic errors in Hubble's Cepheid measurements are not the primary contributors to the Hubble Tension, leaving the door open for more intriguing cosmic revelations. The universe's expansion remains a profound mystery, and Webb's capabilities are shedding new light on this enigma.

The findings of the team were recently published in arXiv.

Related Article: NASA's James Webb Space Telescope Catches Saturn's Rings in Infrared Light

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Virgin Galactic has sparked controversy after transporting the fossils of two ancient humans into space. The fossils of the two extinct hominin species were under the custodianship of the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Researchers at the university hailed this event as a "historic first" and a gesture paying homage to the contributions of human ancestors to space exploration.

Virgin Galactic Brings Human Fossils to Space

Last September 8, the third Virgin Galactic commercial space flight carrying the fossils of the two million years old South African fossil hominin species "Australopithecus sediba," and the 250,000 years old hominin species "Homo naledi" departed from Spaceport America in New Mexico.

These were transported by astronaut Timothy Nash, a South African and British citizen closely linked to human origins research in Africa. The fossils were securely held in a carbon fiber container aboard Virgin Galactic's spaceship, VSS Unity.

Professor Lee Berger, Director of the Centre for the Exploration of the Deep Human Journey at the University of the Witwatersrand, highlighted the symbolic significance of this voyage.

He underscored the pivotal role of ancient relatives in human evolution. Without them, he said feats like spaceflight might not have been conceivable.

"The journey of these fossils into space represents humankind's appreciation of the contribution of all of humanity's ancestors and our ancient relatives. Without their invention of technologies such as fire and tools, and their contribution to the evolution of the contemporary human mind, such extraordinary endeavors as spaceflight would not have happened," Berger said in a press statement.

The fossils chosen for this mission were not only symbolically important but also among the most extensively documented hominin remains globally.

The University of the Witwatersrand, through its scientific and open-access endeavors, has made casts, scans, and images of these fossils widely available.

Read Also: Virgin Galactic's VSS Unity is Back, Another Test with Humans Soon Before Commercial Flight Offers

Two Blue Stars of Virgin Galactic

Mike Moses, Virgin Galactic's president of spaceline missions and safety, expressed his sentiments regarding this special flight. He highlighted the diverse nationalities and affiliations of the astronauts onboard, represented in a commemorative astronaut patch.

This patch also featured two blue stars, signifying the two fossils. Moses deemed it an honor to carry these remarkable specimens, emphasizing the importance of human exploration.

Matthew Berger, who discovered the clavicle of the "sediba" specimen at the site of Malapa in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage site outside of Johannesburg, South Africa, in 2008, said: "These fossils represent individuals who lived and died hundreds of thousands of years ago, yet were individuals who likely gazed up at the stars in wonder, much as we do."

In a brief ceremony just before the flight, Berger handed the fossils to Timothy Nash, the South African-born billionaire entrusted with carrying the fossils.

"I imagine they never could have dreamed while alive of taking such an incredible journey as ambassadors of all of humankind's ancestors," Berger noted.

The second fossil, which is a thumb bone of "Homo naledi," was discovered at Rising Star Cave, also in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage site in 2013 by a group of researchers.

Nash said it was an honor to represent "South Africa and all of humankind," as he carried "these precious representations of our collective ancestors, on this first journey of our ancient relatives into space."

However, some scientists are fuming over the Virgin Galactic mission, saying it lacks scientific purpose and respect for human ancestral remains. They also said a malfunction on the mission could have also destroyed the priceless specimens.

Upon their return to South Africa, there are plans to display the fossils, alongside memorabilia from the flight, in museums and institutions across Africa and globally. This event, though controversial, still stands as a unique fusion of science, space exploration, and homage to our ancient predecessors.

Related Article: Dawn Aerospace's Rocket-Powered Spaceplane, Mk II Aurora, Successfully Flies-On its Way to Space?

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The European Commission is deliberating on the imposition of punitive tariffs for safeguarding EU automakers from the influx of lower-priced Chinese electric vehicle (EV) imports, which, according to the Commission, benefit from substantial state subsidies.

According to TechCrunch, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in her annual address to the EU's parliament on Wednesday, pointed out the oversaturation of global markets with cost-effective electric cars.

She underscored that extensive state subsidies artificially sustain their affordability. At present, the standard EU tariff for cars stands at 10%.

Over the next 13 months, the Commission will determine whether to implement tariffs exceeding that rate. Such a move might provoke a trade dispute with China.

European Commission Anti-Subsidy Probe Encompasses Chinese Brands

This anti-subsidy inquiry encompasses not only Chinese brands but also non-Chinese entities that manufacture in China, including Tesla, Renault, and BMW.

This inquiry on Chinese EV firms in Europe closely follows the IAA Mobility 2023 conference held in Munich. Chinese EV manufacturers, ranging from industry giants like BYD to startups like XPeng, significantly amplified their presence at the event, effectively doubling their representation from the previous year.

The organizers reported that approximately 41% of the presenters were from Asia. During the event, European automakers made concerted efforts to showcase economically viable, cutting-edge electric vehicles in a bid to match the offerings of their Asian counterparts, TechCrunch reported.

Although they have yet to secure a significant foothold in the European market, Chinese automakers stand at the cusp of a transformative shift as they extend their operations beyond China.

As domestic consumer demand dwindles amid an economic slowdown and Tesla's competitive pricing strategies heighten local competition, Chinese EV manufacturers face escalating pressure to globalize their operations.

Reflecting on this trend, China's auto exports experienced a notable upswing of 31% in August, according to the China Passenger Car Association. Within the EU, the share of EVs originating from China - typically priced around 20% lower than their EU-manufactured counterparts has surged to 8%.

Read Also: No More Bidirectional Charging for EVs in California? State Assembly Shut Down Bill's Efforts

EU Wants to Reduce its Reliance on China

According to forecasts from the European Commission, this figure could potentially swell to 15% by 2025. Recent developments substantiate this outlook. XPeng, for instance, announced at IAA its plans to introduce the premium SUV, the G6, to the European market next year.

This addition will complement the models already retailing in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands. Additionally, BYD unveiled a new series of cars tailored for the European market at the event.

In a prior announcement, Chinese EV maker Nio announced plans to introduce a new range of vehicles specifically tailored for the European market by 2024. These models will roll out from its newly established factory in China.

Objecting to the investigation, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce to the EU has asserted that China's competitive advantage does not arise primarily from subsidies but from other impartial factors.

Following in the footsteps of the US, the EU is striving to reduce its reliance on China, especially for critical materials and products essential for the shift towards electric mobility.

Related Article: BMW Finally Unveils an All-Electric MINI Cooper: Here's Everything You Need to Know

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
OpenAI, the artificial intelligence firm behind ChatGPT, is expanding its presence in Europe with a new office in Dublin, Ireland, slated to be operational by year-end.

This move comes as the company looks to broaden its presence in the European market. The decision aligns with OpenAI's vision to harness the potential of artificial intelligence for the betterment of global communities.

The Dublin office is slated to become a pivotal hub for various operational facets, including trust and safety, go-to-market strategies, security engineering, and legal functions.

Expanding OpenAI's Presence in Europe

Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, expressed enthusiasm about this strategic move, emphasizing AI's profound impact on societies worldwide. He underlined the significance of partnering with Dublin, a city at the forefront of technological advancement, particularly in areas like Cork, Galway, and Limerick.

Altman's sentiment was also echoed by Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland, who welcomed OpenAI's decision to establish its European presence in Dublin. Lohan emphasized Ireland's stature as a central hub for administrative, regulatory, and innovative pursuits, especially for digital industry leaders.

"IDA Ireland welcomes the decision by OpenAI to establish a European presence in Dublin. Ireland is a recognized hub for administrative, regulatory, and innovation activities for the world's leading digital companies. OpenAI's investment confirms this and endorses Ireland's focus on building a flourishing AI ecosystem," Lohan said in a press statement.

Read Also: Theoretical Physicists Call AI Chatbots Just 'Glorified Tape Recorders' as Fear of Artificial Intelligence Dies Down

National AI Strategy of Ireland

In parallel, OpenAI's foray into Dublin is poised to align with Ireland's National AI Strategy, showcasing the collaborative effort towards advancing AI development and deployment.

The company's outreach also extends to nurturing young talent through initiatives like Patch, a non-profit youth accelerator, which empowers exceptional individuals between 16 and 21 years old to embark on entrepreneurial ventures.

Simon Coveney, Ireland's Minister for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment, emphasized the necessity of fostering a robust ecosystem for AI to thrive.

He expressed confidence that OpenAI's presence in Ireland will bolster the nation's foundation for cutting-edge AI research and innovation, ensuring a prepared workforce for the evolving landscape.

"In order for Ireland to benefit from AI, it is essential to ensure that we have a strong, supportive ecosystem in place and we believe that companies such as OpenAI operating in Ireland can help build on our foundation to support emerging AI research and innovation, and ensure our workforce is well prepared," Coveney said.

Related Article: Are Talking Spaceships Coming Soon? NASA to Revolutionize Space Exploration with AI-Powered ChatGPT-Like Interface

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The European Commission has recently launched a formal investigation into China's electric vehicle (EV) subsidies, accusing Beijing of distorting the market and undercutting European manufacturers.

Reuters tells us that this unexpected probe, announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, has ignited a fiery response from China, sparking fears of a looming trade showdown.

EU's Accusations and China's Retaliation

The European Commission alleges that China's massive state subsidies have led to artificially low prices for its electric cars, thereby flooding global markets.

According to Brussels, this has unfairly undercut European manufacturers, creating an uneven playing field.

China has vehemently denied these allegations, with its Ministry of Commerce condemning the investigation as a "naked protectionist act" that threatens global automotive supply chains.

"China will pay close attention to the EU's protectionist tendencies and follow-up actions," the Ministry stated, hinting at potential retaliation.

Read Also: No More Bidirectional Charging for EVs in California? State Assembly Shut Down Bill's Efforts

Market Repercussions

Reuters reports that the market reaction to this brewing trade dispute has been palpable.

Shares of major Chinese EV makers took a hit as soon as the news broke. Market leader BYD saw its stock closing by 1.2%, while smaller rivals Geely Auto and Nio fell by 0.5% and 0.9%, respectively.

Xpeng, on the other hand, managed to reverse losses, rising by 0.4%.

State-owned car giant SAIC, renowned for its MG brand, witnessed a more substantial drop in its Shanghai-listed shares, falling as much as 3.4% before closing down 0.3%.

Notably, this investigation has also affected European automakers, with BMW, Volkswagen, Mercedes, and Stellantis all declining their shares between 1.1% and 2.2%.

Understanding the EU Probe

To comprehend the significance of this investigation, it is crucial to grasp how anti-subsidy probes work.

They are initiated when a foreign country is suspected of unfairly subsidizing companies, leading to a competitive advantage and potential harm to the domestic industry.

In this case, the EU claims that China's substantial subsidies have created a price differential of approximately 20% between China-made electric cars and their European counterparts.

This has made Chinese brands, such as BYD, Nio, and Xpeng, highly competitive in the European market.

Industry Implications

EuroNews notes that if the European Commission finds evidence of harm from Chinese subsidies, it could impose tariffs on Chinese electric cars, adding to the existing 10% import duty. These tariffs would counterbalance the unfair advantage derived from subsidies.

However, the scope and extent of these tariffs would depend on the evidence collected during the investigation and feedback from European firms.

Member states would have the option to block these tariffs, but only if they secure a qualified majority representing at least 65% of the EU population.

Regardless of the outcome, this investigation signifies a significant escalation in EU-China relations.

Impact on the EV Industry

China's dominance in the EV sector, fueled by subsidies and a comprehensive supply chain control, has allowed its brands to capture 8% of the European electric car market, a figure expected to rise to 15% by 2025, according to the European Commission's estimates.

While European automakers strive to compete with their Chinese counterparts, this investigation reflects the EU's commitment to maintaining fair competition and addressing perceived distortions in the EV market.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.

Related Article: Tesla vs. Bingling Technology: Legal Battle in China Ensues Over Tech Secret Infringement

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
In Honduras, the fight against dengue has mostly centered on educating people to dread mosquitoes and stay away from their bites for decades. However, an innovative strategy is gaining traction, bringing hope to the struggle against the deadly viral disease.

A group of Honduran volunteers, headed by 52-year-old mason Hector Enriquez, released millions of specially bred mosquitoes into the air in Tegucigalpa's El Manchen area and celebrated. Scientists carefully developed these mosquitoes to contain Wolbachia bacteria, impairing dengue disease transmission, according to AP News.

More than a dozen nations are testing this ground-breaking method, which the nonprofit World Mosquito Program developed over the last 10 years.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is carefully watching the mosquito releases in Honduras and other countries with intentions to spread this ground-breaking strategy globally since more than half of the world's population is in danger of catching dengue.

Dengue's Big Challenge

Doctors Without Borders and the World Mosquito Program are collaborating in Honduras, where around 10,000 individuals contract dengue each year. They plan to release roughly 9 million mosquitoes with Wolbachia over the next six months as part of their concentrated attempt to fight the illness.

The founder of the mosquito program, Scott O'Neill, underlined the need to find fresh methods for preventing dengue, per The Hindu. Traditional techniques for fighting dengue-causing Aedes aegypti mosquitoes have failed owing to pesticide resistance. The four distinct dengue virus strains also make vaccine-based strategies more challenging.

The fact that Aedes aegypti mosquitoes like to bite during the day makes them much more problematic since bed nets are mostly useless when they do this. Experts have acknowledged the urgent need for creative solutions since climate change and urbanization provide the perfect circumstances for these insects to flourish.

Read Also: French Watchdog Agency Calls for iPhone 12 Recall Due to High Radiation Levels

Raman Velayudhan, a researcher with the WHO's Global Neglected Tropical Diseases Program, praised the Wolbachia technique and called it a "long-term, sustainable solution." Millions worldwide suffer from neglected tropical vector-borne dengue. The WHO estimates 390 million dengue cases each year, threatening 3.9 billion people.

Caring for someone with mild #dengue? Heres what you can do. pic.twitter.com/QTaKDVgknN  WHO South-East Asia (@WHOSEARO) September 5, 2023

Hopeful in The New Strategy Against Dengue

The transmission of dengue has grown during the past 50 years due to environmental changes, population growth, climate unpredictability, and urbanization. Climate change is anticipated to spread dengue to additional locations since it favors Aedes mosquitoes.

Dengue persists as a growing problem despite huge advances in fighting mosquito-borne diseases, including malaria. Dengue outbreaks may overwhelm healthcare systems and disrupt everyday life while often exhibiting severe symptoms similar to the worst instances of influenza, per Mongbay.

Notably, the introduction of Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes resulted in a surprising 76% decrease in reported dengue infections in a large-scale field study in Indonesia in 2019.

Although early studies have shown promise, concerns still exist over the Wolbachia strategy's long-term efficacy and cost-efficiency.

This innovative approach to dengue in Honduras shows hope to a world facing the grave challenges of dengue. The WHO is prepared to assist with additional testing and the use of the Wolbachia approach to stop the dengue outbreak, working with researchers and organizations from across the globe.

Related Article: Popular OTC Allergy, Cold Medicine Ingredient is Just Waste of Money: FDA Panel

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham discovered a cancer treatment breakthrough using small, electrically charged gold particles to induce the self-destruction of the cells of one of the deadliest cancers.



The Nottingham research group, under the direction of Dr. Frankie Rawson, used a cutting-edge "bio-antenna" idea to induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, particularly in glioblastoma cells. These bio-antennas are made of unique molecules coated with gold nanoparticles. An electromagnetic field causes these bio-antennae to tell cancer cells to self-destruct.



Treating glioblastoma is difficult, with a 6.8% five-year survival rate and an estimated eight-month survival rate. The late John McCain, a former US senator, had a condition that affects more men than women.

Notably, the Nottingham team's inventive strategy displayed extraordinary selectivity. The bio-antennae's targeting of glioblastoma cells did not have an impact on the surrounding healthy cells.



Dr. Rawson explained, as quoted by Metro, "What we discovered is that specific pathways in the cancer cells are upregulated when we apply the treatment but aren't in the healthy cells. By applying an electromagnetic field, we cause the molecules to lose an electron, triggering the signaling mechanism for the cancer cell to die."



Since it uses quantum physics to fight cancer, this groundbreaking cancer treatment has been called the first 'quantum therapy,' although its processes are further studied.



Dr. Rawson expressed excitement about the cancer treatment discovery, stating, "For the last couple of decades, there have been a few papers and hypotheses suggesting that as you move from the classical world to the quantum world, you can think of really tiny particles as both particles and waves."



The latest cancer treatment breakthrough might someday be used as a spray.

Read Also: UK Government Takes Bold Step to Ban Single-Use Vapes Amid Rising Child Addiction Concerns

Innovative Cancer Treatment Using Nanoparticles

Meanwhile, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) researchers have also presented a revolutionary method to identify and get rid of cancer cells, especially those forming solid tumor masses. Gold and copper sulfide hybrid nanoparticles have been developed that can both heat-destruct cancer cells and allow for their detection via sound waves.



According to Jaya Prakash, assistant professor in the Department of Instrumentation and Applied Physics (IAP), IISc, as quoted by The Hindu, "When light is shined on these hybrid nanoparticles, they absorb the light and generate heat, which can kill cancer cells." He further explained that these nanoparticles also create cancer-toxic singlet oxygen atoms, eliminating cells in two ways.

Lung Cancer Vaccine Significantly Reduces Fatality Rate

In a separate development, Ose Immunotherapeutics, a French biotechnology company, reported that its lung cancer vaccine, Tedopi, reduced death by 41%. In Europe and the US, lung cancer is primarily to blame for cancer deaths.



Euronews reported that in a phase 3 clinical study published in Annals of Oncology, Tedopi enhanced survival and quality of life in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC or adenocarcinoma), which is less receptive to traditional treatments. This amazing accomplishment gives those facing this terrible illness a boost of optimism.



Further illustrating Tedopi's potential to change the way lung cancer is treated, Tedopi was given as a third-line therapy to patients who had previously had two other treatments.

Related Article: Honduras Innovates in Dengue Epidemic Fight by Deploying Special Mosquitoes

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
General Angus Campbell, the Chief of the Australian Defence Force, issued a stark warning about the dangers of "truth decay," which he attributed to the development of artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities in democracies.

At an Australian Strategic Policy Institute conference, Campbell warned that AI-driven misinformation operations may erode trust and divide nations.



Campbell highlighted the effectiveness of these operations in weakening trust in institutions and fostering strife by singling out Russia's use of misinformation as a "weapon of statecraft" in the United States and the United Kingdom. Although misinformation efforts have a long history, he pointed out that advanced technology has increased its scope and effect.

Democracies Face Grave AI-Generated Threats

The general highlighted the rise of AI-driven deepfakes, which imitate public authorities and pose national security dangers. He expressed concern that there may come a day when it is practically impossible for the ordinary individual to tell reality from falsehood, thus accelerating "truth decay" and undermining public trust in elected authorities.



"This tech future may accelerate truth decay, greatly challenging the quality of what we call public 'common sense', seriously damaging public confidence in elected officials, and undermining the trust that binds us," he said, as quoted by The Guardian.



Campbell addressed this issue and underlined the need to encourage individuals' critical thinking to successfully counteract misinformation, per The Singleton Argus. The top military official emphasized how democracies like Australia must change to meet the new threats.



The Australian Defence Force chief also stressed the need to confront rapid technological breakthroughs and rising great power rivalries. In addition, he issued a warning about the disruptive effects of the climate catastrophe and called for more cooperation to prevent a world that has been "provoked by our collective neglect."

Read Also: Elon Musk Receives High Praise from Vladimir Putin Amid Starlink Controversy

US Senate Tackles AI Threats as US Elections Approaches

Separately, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer recently organized an AI meeting with representatives from government and IT companies in the US. Discussions focused on the urgent measures needed to combat the dangers of AI, particularly in the lead-up to the 2024 US elections.

Deepfakes, election tampering, and assaults on vital infrastructure all drew the ire of US policymakers. As a possible defense against misleading AI-generated information, Senator Schumer raised the possibility of watermarking materials.

"We discussed watermarking. There are several things that need to be done, but that one may have a shorter timeline than some of the others, and it's crucial to complete, Schumer said, as quoted in a report published by Rappler.



Schumer acknowledged the need for AI laws but cautioned against making quick choices due to the hazards associated with excessively prompt regulation. He also believes that the European Union's approach to AI legislation was "too fast."



Leading figures in technology were present at the closed-door event at the US Capitol, including Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla; Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta Platforms; and Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet. To increase transparency and consumer knowledge, some tech businesses have committed to creating watermarking solutions for AI-generated content.



TechTimes earlier reported that Elon Musk backed the creation of a federal AI agency while expressing his continued worry about the dangers posed by the advancement of AI. He emphasized the significance of the occasion by labeling AI research a "civilizational risk" that may be detrimental to everyone.

Related Article: 'AI Anxious': LinkedIn Survey Reveals Employees' Fear of Lagging Behind in AI Technology

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Rogelio Enriquez: "It seems that all famous chefs are men, but in the kitchens of Madrid there are a lot of women who do not appear in the photos and we want to bring them to light"
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

President Joe Biden has finally broken his silence over Kevin McCarthys plans to launch an impeachment inquiry to potentially oust him from office.

Speaking at an event for his 2024 campaign on Wednesday night, the president gave his first public comments about the bombshell move by the House speaker as he accused Republicans of bringing the inquiry in a bid to shut down the US government.

Well, I tell you what, I dont know quite why, but they just knew they wanted to impeach me, he said.

And now, the best I can tell, they want to impeach me because they want to shut down the government.

Congress faces a looming deadline to avert a full government shutdown  something that would lead to thousands of federal employees being furloughed and the likes of government food assistance benefits being delayed.

Lawmakers in the House and Senate must pass 12 spending bills by 30 September in order to avoid the shutdown.

House Speaker McCarthy is facing pressure from MAGA Republicans to take a hardline approach and cut spending for fiscal 2024 to $1.47 trillion. This would be around $120bn less than Mr Biden and Mr McCarthy reached an agreement over in May.

Mr Biden said that the two major moments are linked as he brushed off the impeachment inquiry, claiming to be unphased and focused on the job to do.

So look, look, I got a job to do. Everybody always asked about impeachment. I get up every day, not a joke, not focused on impeachment, he said.

Ive got a job to do. Ive got to deal with the issues that affect the American people every single solitary day.

First Lady Jill Biden and President Joe Biden at a cancer moonshots event on 13 September (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

On Tuesday morning, Mr McCarthy announced in a press conference that he was throwing his support behind an impeachment inquiry against Mr Biden in particular scrutinising his familys foreign business dealings.

These are allegations of abuse of power, obstruction and corruption. And they warrant further investigation by the House of Representatives, Mr McCarthy said.

Biden used his official office to coordinate with Hunter Bidens business partners about Hunters role in Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company.

The inquiry will be led by House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan and House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith.

The move comes as Mr McCarthy has faced ongoing pressure from MAGA Republicans to support impeachment efforts against the president  despite failing to come up with any evidence of wrongdoing.

House Republicans have repeatedly claimed that Mr Biden may have directly benefited from son Hunter Bidens business dealings  and that Hunter has been given favourable treatment in his legal problems because of his fathers position as president.

Earlier on Wednesday, Mr Biden had avoided questions from reporters about the potential impeachment as he held an event on his cancer moonshots program.

But, while Mr Biden has largely avoided making public comments on the matter, his campaign immediately went on the defence after Mr McCarthys announcement.

A fundraising email was sent to supporters calling on them to stand behind our president and singling out the like of Mr McCarthy and Marjorie Taylor Greene for launching the ridiculous impeachment inquiry.

Meanwhile, the White House also sent emails to some US media organisations including CNN and Fox News urging them to ramp up its scrutiny of House Republicans for opening an impeachment inquiry based on lies.
Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the

Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }}

President Joe Biden has fathered four children from two marriages  though only two of his children are still alive today.

Mr Biden had three children with his first wife, Neilia Biden, whom he married in 1966. In order of birth, they were Joseph Robinette III, known as Beau; Robert Hunter; and Naomi Christina, known as Amy.

On 18 December 1972, Neilia was driving with the three children to buy a Christmas tree when their car was hit by a tractor-trailer. Both Neilia and Naomi Biden were pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital. Naomi was just over a year old at the time.

The two boys survived but with serious injuries. Less than a month later, Mr Biden was sworn into the Senate on 3 January 1973 at the hospital where his sons were recovering.

Senator Biden met future First Lady Jill Tracy Jacobs on a blind date in 1975 and the pair were married in 1977. They had a daughter, Ashley Blazer, a few years later.

Here is everything to know about Mr Bidens children.

Beau Biden

Beau Biden was born on 3 February 1969 in Wilmington, Delaware. He suffered multiple broken bones in the car accident and was hospitalised for several months afterward.

Beau attended college at the University of Pennslyvania and then Syracuse University College of Law before clerking for Judge Steven McAuliffe of the United States District Court of New Hampshire.

Between 1995 and 2004 he worked for the Department of Justice in Philadelphia, eventually becoming a federal prosecutor in the US Attorneys Office.

He married Hallie Olivere in 2002 and they had a daughter, Natalie, in 2004, and a son, Robert, in 2006. Just like his uncle, Robert is known as Hunter.

Beau Biden in 2012 (EPA)

In 2003 Beau joined the Delaware Army National Guard. He was deployed to Iraq in late 2008.

Beau ran for Attorney General of Delaware in 2006 and won, also winning re-election in 2010. He served in the role even while being deployed in Iraq.

Memorably, in 2008, he spoke at the Democratic National Convention after his father was nominated to be vice president. During his speech, he recalled the tragic car accident and his fathers commitment to parenting.

However, Beau suffered from several medical issues in the 2010s.

Before winning his attorney general re-election, Beau was hospitalised with a mild stroke. Then in 2013 he was diagnosed with brain cancer after experiencing disorientation and weakness. He underwent surgery to remove a lesion and proceeded to have radiation and chemotherapy.

After that, his cancer went into remission for a short period of time.

In 2016, Beau announced his intention to run for Governor of Delaware but on 20 May 2015, he was admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. His cancer had returned.

Just 10 days later Beau died at the age of 46.

He is buried at St Josephs on the Brandywine in Greenville, Delaware alongside his mother and sister. His father attends services at the church and often speaks of him with great affection at official events.

Vice President Kamala Harris, who knew Beau well, also spoke fondly of him, referring to him as my dear friend in a speech.

Hunter Biden

Hunter Biden was born on 4 February 1970. In the car crash he sustained injuries to his skull and, like his brother, received months of treatment to recover.

He attended Georgetown University and graduated with a degree in history in 1992. After, he served as a Jesuit volunteer at a church in Portland, Oregon where he met Kathleen Buhle, whom he married in 1993.

Returning to higher education, Hunter went to Georgetown University Law Centre for a year, before transferring to Yale Law School from which he graduated in 1996.

Hunter had three children with Kathleen: Naomi, named after his late sister, Finnegan, named after his grandmother Jean Finnegan, and Maisy, who went to school with Sasha Obama.

Hunter and Joe Biden (REUTERS)

Kathleen and Hunter separated in 2015 and divorced in 2017. For a time in 2016, Hunter dated his late brothers wife, Hallie.

In 2018, his fourth child was born to Lunden Alexis Roberts in Arkansas, with a judge signing an order declaring Hunters paternity in early 2020.

He married South African filmmaker Melissa Cohen in May 2019 and had his fifth child, a son, with her in March 2020.

Professionally, Hunter worked for MBNA America after graduation and then the Department of Commerce, focusing on e-commerce policy from 1998 to 2001.

In 2001 he co-founded the lobbying firm Oldaker, Biden & Belair, and in 2006 he and his uncle, James Biden, bought the international hedge fund Paradigm Global Advisors. He served as CEO for five years.

Also in 2006 he was appointed to the board of directors of Amtrak by President George W Bush, but left in 2009 when his father became vice president.

Since 2009, Hunter has been an investor and lobbyist with a focus on natural resource extraction and technology. He has also held the position of counsel at a law firm and was on the board of directors of the charity World Food Program USA.

Hunter has battled alcohol and drug addiction for many years, and a positive test for cocaine in 2013 saw a new career in the US Navy Reserve cut short after just a month.

His career as an investor has made him the focus of conspiracy theories regarding his fathers political career  specifically concerning his business activities in Ukraine with the firm Burisma, and in China regarding the companies BHR Partners, Ye Jianming and CEFC energy.

In 2019 Donald Trump was impeached by the Democrat-run Congress after it emerged he had pressured the Ukrainian president to try to dig up dirt on Hunter and his father in exchange for continued military support and a visit to the White House. Mr Trump was acquitted by Republican allies in the Senate.

Hunter announced that he was under federal criminal investigation for his tax affairs shortly before his father became president.

Three weeks before the 2020 election, a laptop belonging to Hunter that had been abandoned at a repair shop resurfaced. Initial reports from The New York Post suggested that Hunter provided an opportunity for a Burisma advisor to meet with his father. Conservative media jumped on the report, speculating  even to this day  that Hunters laptop ties his father to corruption in Ukraine. Based on the available evidence it is unclear if Hunter did anything wrong.

In an interview with Piers Morgan, Mr Trump said the story made a 17-point difference, appearing to claim it as evidence of his baseless narrative that the results of the 2020 presidential election were stolen from him.

Hunters conduct has continued to be a point of consternation for Republicans during Mr Bidens presidency and a focal point of the Twitter files  internal Twitter documents released by the companys new owner Elon Musk detailing how the platform first moved to block a New York Post story about Hunters laptop before reversing course.

On 14 September 2023, Hunter was indicted on federal gun charges. On 3 October he pled not guilty.

Ashley Biden

Ashley Biden was born on 8 June 1981 and is the only child from Joes marriage to Jill Biden.

A graduate of cultural anthropology from Tulane University, she pursued a career in social work, obtaining a masters degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 2010.

She spent 15 years as a social worker at the Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth and their Families. In 2012, Ashley became an associate director of the Delaware Centre for Justice, focusing on criminal justice reform in the state, eventually becoming executive director of the centre until 2019.

Ashley Biden (DNCC via Getty Images)

In 2012 she married Howard Krein, a plastic surgeon, introduced to her by her brother Beau, and in 2017 she launched an ethical fashion brand to raise funds to combat income and racial inequality in the US.

Ashley joined Hunter to introduce their father at the 2020 Democratic National Convention before he accepted the presidential nomination.
Menelik the First is significant in African history, particularly Ethiopian history, renowned for bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Ethiopia.

Menelik I is a legendary figure in the Ethiopian tradition. He is believed to be the son of King Solomon of Israel and the Queen of Sheba, making him part of a line of rulers said to be descended from this union.

According to Ethiopian tradition, Menelik I is renowned for bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Ethiopia. The Ark, which is said to contain the tablets of the Ten Commandments, is considered one of the most sacred objects in Judaism.

The Ark of the Covenant, as described in the Bible's Old Testament, is a sacred chest made of acacia wood and covered in gold. It is said to contain the stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments that were given to Moses on Mount Sinai. The Ark was considered the most sacred relic of the Israelites and was kept in the Holy of Holies in the Temple of Jerusalem.

According to Ethiopian tradition and the Kebra Nagast, also known as Glory of the Kings, is a sacred text of Ethiopian Christianity, Menelik I's journey to Jerusalem to visit his father, King Solomon, and his subsequent return with the Ark of the Covenant is a central narrative.

The story of Menelik I and the Ark of the Covenant, as told in the Kebra Nagast, is a cherished part of Ethiopian history and culture. It symbolizes the ancient ties between Ethiopia and Jerusalem and is a testament to Ethiopia's deep historical and religious heritage.

Kebra Nagast Story of Menelik I and the Ark of the Covenant

In ancient times, there was a powerful king named Solomon in Jerusalem, and he was known for his wisdom and wealth. At the same time, in a faraway land called Ethiopia, there was a legendary queen known as the Queen of Sheba. She heard about Solomon's wisdom and traveled to Jerusalem to meet him.

When the Queen of Sheba met King Solomon, she was deeply impressed by his wisdom and the grandeur of his kingdom. They became friends, and it's said that they fell in love. During her stay, they had a son together, Menelik I.

As Menelik grew up in Ethiopia, he became curious about his father, King Solomon, and wanted to meet him. The people of Ethiopia agreed, and they decided to send Menelik on a journey to Jerusalem to see his father.

When Menelik arrived in Jerusalem, he spent several years there. But as time went on, Menelik and some Ethiopian priests had a secret plan. They decided to take something very important back to Ethiopia with them  the Ark of the Covenant.

Menelik, the priests, and a group of trusted companions took the Ark, a sacred chest believed to hold the Ten Commandments, and a replica of it. They embarked on a journey back to Ethiopia, carrying this precious treasure with them.

After a long and challenging journey, Menelik and his group brought the Ark to Ethiopia. They placed it in a special sanctuary in the city of Axum, and this became a holy place for the Ethiopian people. The Ark was seen as a symbol of their connection to the biblical stories of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.
Hatred against trans people and a radical precedent in anti-discrimination law would flow from a lesbian group being allowed to invite only biological females to its events, Victorias peak union body has warned.

An application by the recently formed Lesbian Action Group to lawfully exclude trans women from a Lesbians Born Female event has caused a heated rift, with equality and inclusion advocates squaring off against womens rights groups.

Lesbian rights campaigner Carole Ann is behind the push to stage a Lesbians Born Female event. Credit: Wayne Taylor

The Lesbian Action Group, an organisation formed by veterans of the lesbian rights movement of the 1980s and 1990s, wants to stage its event at the government-funded Victorian Pride Centre in Melbourne next month to celebrate International Lesbian Day, and has applied for a five-year exemption from the Sex Discrimination Act.

The application triggered a flurry of submissions, published by the Australian Human Rights Commission, which echo arguments raging more broadly within political and feminist circles and womens sporting and cultural institutions over how to balance gender inclusion and sex-based rights.
Even before Tim Gurners mea culpa on Thursday, over his now-infamous comments at The Financial Reviews property summit two days earlier about arrogant modern workers, we thought we detected some signs of regret from the Rich List property developer and biohacker.

Tim Gurners LinkedIn account appears to have been deleted. Credit: John Shakespeare

Because its not surprising that even someone of Gurners undoubted confidence might be tested by the outpouring of outrage that greeted his talk.

We got in touch with Tim on Thursday, but his people made it clear he had nothing to add to his statement walking back the comments.

My comments were deeply insensitive to employees, tradies and families across Australia who are affected by these cost-of-living pressures and job losses, he said in his statement.
According to UK authorities, on September 8, 2014, the Immigration, Passenger Transit Visa Order was amended to include Georgia and Russia in the list of countries whose citizens require a transit visa when entering another country via the UK. This order does not affect citizens of Georgia or Russia in transit to the UK if they entered the UK before October 5, 2023.According to information on the official website, in Great Britain, a normative act typically takes effect no earlier than 21 days after its submission to Parliament. The reason for the order's immediate implementation, just one day after being tabled in Parliament, is the growing concern over the increasing number of Georgian and Russian nationals traveling to the UK and seeking asylum upon arrival.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia released information on the topic, stating, "Starting from September 8, Georgian citizens are required to obtain a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) when transiting through a British airport. This visa is necessary when a person is traveling to a third country, has a connecting flight in Great Britain, and does not go through border checks."The information emphasized that Great Britain has implemented this requirement for over a hundred countries.The Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Gharibashvili, held a farewell meeting with Pavel Vizdal, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to Georgia.According to the Government of Georgia, the meeting focused on the significant progress made in bilateral relations between Georgia and Slovakia, encompassing political, economic, and cultural aspects."During the conversation, they discussed important projects aimed at supporting the country, with a particular emphasis on Slovakia's assistance to the health sector. The meeting took place at the government administration, where the Ambassador of the Slovak Republic affirmed his strong support for Georgia's EU membership. Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili expressed gratitude to the Ambassador of the Slovak Republic for further strengthening the existing strategic partnership between the two countries and wished him success in his future endeavors," the government's press release reads.
Hang around parliaments long enough, and you soon realise there is no shortage of policy problems.

Every day its a different coloured ribbon and another event where politicians dutifully listen to the latest political woe, grab some freebies and a photo for social media before moving on to the next problem.

After nine years in office, the Andrews government is only now preparing to unveil its housing package. Credit: Andrew Dyson

With so many problems to fix, what is the magical formula that zaps a government into acting on a particular issue?

A few weeks ago, I was invited to speak at a forum alongside Victorias former deputy premier John Thwaites, who tried to tackle this very question. Thwaites, who was a cabinet minister for eight years, explained that three crucial ingredients must exist for meaningful policy change: a clearly defined problem, a feasible solution, and  most importantly  the political will to do it.
A Craigieburn home has been sprayed with bullets in the second drive-by shooting in Melbourne in as many days.

A man and a woman, both aged in their 50s, were sleeping inside their Excelsior Heights home when they were woken by gunshots about 12.10am on Thursday.

A Craigieburn home was sprayed with bullets early on Thursday morning. Credit: AAP Image/Diego Fedele

The house was badly damaged but police say the man and woman were uninjured.

It is believed a number of shots were fired towards the home causing extensive damage to the front of the residence, a police spokesperson said.
Brisbane home owners who advertise their whole place on Airbnb long-term would be slugged more than $10,000 a year under a Greens plan to tackle the housing crisis.

The policy, to be announced by Brisbane Greens mayoral candidate Jonathan Sriranganathan on Friday, would increase rates for short-term accommodation to 10 times, or 1000 per cent, the rates for long-term rentals.

Jonathan Sriranganathan wants to increase rates for Airbnb properties in Brisbane by 1000 per cent. Credit: Matt Dennien

Our goal here is to piss off and scare away investors who would rather make money from Airbnb than make housing available to local residents, Sriranganathan said.

Our message to them is: Get stuffed  we dont want you in this city.
Carelessness and low-level rule breaking are behind most of the states fatal crashes this year, which have jumped to the highest level in 15 years, according to Victoria Police.

Chief Commissioner Shane Patton said on Thursday that fresh penalties for dangerous driving and police enforcement blitzes might be needed as the force considered new strategies to stop the number of road deaths growing any further.

Chief Commissioner Shane Patton at the Victoria Police road safety summit at the MCG. Credit: Wayne Taylor

As of midnight on Wednesday, 207 people have been killed in crashes across Victoria  37 more than the same time last year and the highest death toll since 2008.

If we had 207 murders, the community would be in uproar, Patton said. But there seems to be ... a sense of inevitability that this is going to occur. Theyre preventable in 95 per cent of the cases  theyre not accidents.
A new levy on short-term accommodation provided by companies like Airbnb will be presented to state cabinet on Monday as part of a suite of housing reforms to be unveiled early next week.

The Age can reveal that senior Labor ministers will meet early next week to discuss the first stage of the Andrews governments long-awaited housing statement, set to include a consumer-facing levy on short-term stays that could be as high as 7.5 per cent.

Victorias top government decision-makers will weigh up whether to introduce a consumer-facing Airbnb levy on Monday. Credit: The Age

Hotels are expected to be excluded from the levy, according to industry stakeholders familiar with the policy discussions, after campaigning from accommodation and tourism groups.

Based on average rates provided by tracking website Inside Airbnb, a 7.5 per cent levy would add about $17 per night to a short-stay rental in metropolitan Melbourne and $42 for stays on the Mornington Peninsula.
Cellulosic Ethanol Market to Hit US$ 9,539.47 Million By 2030 | Updated Analysis







Consegic Business Intelligence analyzes that the cellulosic ethanol market is growing with a healthy CAGR of 14.9% during the forecast period (2023-2030), boosted by the growing demand for sustainable and renewable energy sources, and major participants includes are Raizen SA, Logen Corporation, GranBio, POET-DSM Advanced Biofuels, Iogen Corporation, Praj Industries, Cargill

New York, Sept. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE)  The global C ellulosic E thanol M arket is expected to witness significant growth at a remarkable CAGR of 14.9% during the forecast period of 2023-2030. Factors such as the growing demand for sustainable and renewable energy sources, the high benefits of cellulosic ethanol over 1st generation ethanol, and others are accelerating the demand for cellulosic ethanol, which, in turn, is boosting the market growth. In addition, the growing initiatives for the development of cellulosic ethanol production plants will further boost the market growth during the forecast period.

Immediate Delivery Available, Buy Now @

https://www.consegicbusinessintelligence.com/secure-checkout/1248

Global Cellulosic Ethanol Market Segmentation Details:

Based on Feedstock, the agricultural residues segment contributed the largest shares to the market growth in 2022. The processing of agriculture residue leads to relatively lower greenhouse gas emissions due to which it is getting popular as the most effective and highly available feedstock for cellulosic ethanol production segment growth across the globe. Thus, the high availability and lower cost of conversion of agriculture residue is fostering the revenue growth of the cellulosic ethanol industry during the forecast period.

Based on Process, the dry grind segment contributed the largest shares to the market growth in 2022. The growth of the dry grind process in cellulosic ethanol is gaining popularity owing to the increasing research and development activities for the optimization of technologies. Hence, the high affordability and acceptance of dry grind process for cellulosic ethanol manufacturing is fostering market growth.

Based on the Application, the fuel & fuel additives segment contributed the largest shares to the market growth in 2022. Cellulosic ethanol is used as fuel & and fuel additives due to its higher octane number and premium blending properties in gasoline. Owing to these beneficial properties of ethanol as a fuel additive, government bodies across the globe are promoting ethanol blending in the fuel to lower the overall gasoline prices and increase sustainability in fuels. Henceforth, the utilization of cellulosic ethanol as a fuel additive is increasing which, in turn, is fostering market growth.

Get Sample Report@ https://www.consegicbusinessintelligence.com/request-sample/1248

Based on End-user Industry, the transportation segment accounted for the largest market share in the year 2022. Cellulosic ethanol is a renewable fuel made from various plant materials collectively known as biomass. Ethanol is used as a fuel and fuel additive in the transportation industry. Gasoline contains 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline. Such a high content of ethanol in gasoline helps to reduce the air pollution caused by vehicle emissions. The increasing government initiatives to increase the blending of ethanol and gasoline to promote sustainability in fuel and reduce the dependency on fossil fuels are driving the segment growth.

Based on Region, in the year 2022, North America accounted for the largest share contribution to the market growth, owing to the increasing biofuel production across the region. The increasing investments in the production of sustainable biofuels across the region are accelerating the cellulosic ethanol market in the North American region. For instance, in January 2023, The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced $118 million in funding for 17 projects to accelerate the production of sustainable biofuels for Americas transportation and manufacturing needs.

Competitive Landscape

Raizen SA, Logen Corporation, GranBio, and Cargill, Inc. are major market players that comprise the latest market circumstances. These companies are substantially leveraging their technologies for the development of a new range of cellulosic ethanol. Further, the cellulosic ethanol market is expected to grow steadily due to growing initiatives for the development of cellulosic ethanol production plants, especially in regions such as the Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe are estimated to boost the market statistics in the coming years. Additionally, the trend toward increasing expansion of cellulosic ethanol players in the international market is expected to increase the competition in the industry.

Recent Developments

In November 2022, Raizen SA announced an investment of USD 1.23 billion for the construction of five new second-generation ethanol or cellulosic ethanol plants.

In June 2022, Clariant AG announced that it had produced the first commercial cellulosic ethanol at its sunliquid production plant in Podari, Romania

In August 2020, GranBio, and NextChem, announced a partnership to achieve global leadership in the licensing of patented GranBio 2G Ethanol technology to produce cellulosic ethanol.

Key Market Takeaways

North America accounted for the highest market share at 36.10% valued at USD 1,137.15 million in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 3,462.83 million in 2030. Moreover, in North America, the U.S. accounted for the highest market share of 64.30% during the base year of 2022.

Based on feedstock, the agricultural residues segment accounted for the highest share contribution to the cellulosic ethanol market statistics in 2022.

In the context of process, the dry grind segment is expected to contribute significant shares to the growth of cellulosic ethanol market statistics during the forecast period.

Based on application, the fuel & fuel additives segment accounted for the highest share contribution to the cellulosic ethanol market statistics in 2022.

In the context of the end-user industry, the transportation segment is expected to contribute significant shares to the growth of cellulosic ethanol market statistics during the forecast period.

Asia Pacific is expected to boost the market demand for cellulosic ethanol due to the increasing investments by the key players for the development of cellulosic ethanol manufacturing plants in countries such as India, Singapore, and others.

Browse Full Report & TOC @ https://www.consegicbusinessintelligence.com/cellulosic-ethanol-market

List of Major Global Cellulosic Ethanol Market:

Raizen SA

Logen Corporation

GranBio

POET-DSM Advanced Biofuels

Iogen Corporation

Praj Industries

Cargill, Inc.

Ginkgo Bioworks

Bioamber Inc

Genomatica Inc.

Clariant AG

Global Cellulosic Ethanol Market Segmentation:

By Feedstock Energy Crops Agricultural Residues Organic Municipal Solid Waste Forest Residue Others

By Process Dry Grind Wet Mills Others

By Application Industrial Solvents Fuel & Fuel Additives Beverages Chemical Additives Others

By End-user Industry Transportation Energy Chemicals Others



Request for Customization @ https://www.consegicbusinessintelligence.com/request-customization/1248

Frequently Asked Questions in the Cellulosic Ethanol Market Report
Contact Congress: Stop Californias vehicle ban from becoming the national norm







SEE ALSO: The Choice Of Vehicle Power Should Come From Motorists Not Residents Of The Swamp

The state of California is banning the sale of new gas and diesel cars and trucks. Theyre also going after diesel semi-trucks. The only thing standing between us and California vehicle bans becoming our national norm is the EPA and Congress.

Contact your member of Congress today using the form on this page and urge them to vote YES. A yes vote will put clear limits on EPAs ability to green light California bans or give California power to set vehicle policies in other states.

California doesnt have the right to ban cars, so it has to get explicit permission from President Biden and the EPA to move forward. On this matter, EPA answers to Congress, and Congress can make clear that EPA is not authorized to give this permission.

This week, Congress is voting on a bill H.R. 1435, the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act that would do just that. It would rein in EPA and stop extreme California vehicle bans from becoming the law of land (as you know, close to 20 states follow California vehicle laws and many have already taken steps to impose Californias ban).

Following up on this message. The vote to stop the U.S. EPA from greenlighting Californias ban on gas and diesel vehicles is

TOMORROW

, Thursday, September 14.

Bob,



Since last week, weve made some big progress. The House of Representatives is voting THIS WEEK on one of the bills weve been advocating for: H.R. 1435, the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act.



Please send your Representative a message specifically urging them to support this bill. Its pretty clear cut:



The Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act (H.R. 1435) What it does: It would stop EPA from authorizing California to enforce its ban on gas and diesel vehicles.



It would stop EPA from authorizing California to enforce its ban on gas and diesel vehicles. What it does not do: This legislation is narrow and would not affect Californias existing Clean Air Act waivers (providing they dont involve bans) or the states ability to petition EPA for future waivers to address local air quality issues. California  and the nearly 20 states that copy California vehicle policies  cannot enact a ban on gasoline and diesel vehicle sales without approval from the U.S. EPA. Congress decides what EPA does and doesnt have power to do, and Congress can make clear that EPA has no authority to allow California to ban consumer access to vehicles of any kind. Thats what H.R. 1435 does.



Importantly, there is nothing anti-EV in this policy. Its all focused on stopping bans. It doesnt get in the way of electric vehicle advancement or EV incentives. Any American, and any Californian, who wants to purchase an EV will have every freedom to do so.



As you guys know by now, every American stands to be impacted by what California is doing.



Whether you live in California (Hi, Mom and Dad) or in one of the nearly 20 states that copy Californias exact vehicle regulations, well all pay the price if EPA green lights Californias ban. H.R. 1435 can take that off the table.



- Ericka and the AFPM EMPOWER team Copyright 1996 The Auto Channel. Send your questions, comments, and suggestions to info@theautochannel.com. Submit press releases or news stories to submit@theautochannel.com. Place copy in body of email, NO attachments please.

We need Democrats and Republicans to vote YES to rein in EPA and stop Californias ban from becoming law all around the country. Pleaseso they know exactly where you stand and why Californias ban matters to all of us. Were hearing that some members still think that EPA has to give California permission to enact its ban (it does not) and that costs, if Californias ban goes through, will be limited to Californians (they wont Californias ban will spread to other states, and well all end up paying more because of it).Heres the link to send your email: https://empower.afpm.org/ actions/contact-congress-stop- californias-vehicle-ban- becoming-national-norm - Ericka
It is the second Cabinet shuffle since Kishida took office in October 2021, when he promised a fairer distribution of economic growth, measures to tackle Japan's declining population and a stronger national defense. Russia's war in Ukraine, rising energy prices and Japan's soaring defense costs have created challenges in his tenure, keeping his support ratings at low levels.

One of the five, former Justice Minister Yoko Kamikawa, was appointed foreign minister, replacing Yoshimasa Hayashi. Minoru Kihara, who has been serving on the governing Liberal Democratic Party's national security committee, was appointed defense minister, replacing Yasukazu Hamada.

Kishida appointed five women to the 19-member Cabinet, part of his attempt to buoy sagging support ratings for his previous male-dominated Cabinet, which had only two women. The five females match the number in two earlier Japanese Cabinets -- in 2014 and 2001.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida shuffled his Cabinet and key party posts on Wednesday to strengthen his position before a key party leadership vote next year, bringing in a new defense minister and the country's first female foreign minister since 2004.

Kishida's three-year term as the conservative LDP's president expires in September 2024, when he is expected to seek a second term. His faction in the party is the fourth largest, so he must stay on good terms with the others to maintain his position.

He distributed Cabinet posts to reflect that balance of power, with nearly half of the positions going to the two largest factions associated with assassinated former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and former leader Taro Aso.

Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki, Digital Reform Minister Taro Kono and Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi were among six ministers who stayed.

The LDP supports traditional family values and gender roles, and the low number of female politicians in leadership positions is often criticized by women's rights groups as democracy without women.

U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel welcomed the new Cabinet. "These appointments will bring a level of freshness, a level of energy and purposefulness in that endeavor that started two years ago" as Japan and the U.S. continue to elevate their security ties, Emanuel said in a telephone interview.

Opposition leaders expressed disappointment in the new Cabinet. "We recognize the increase of female ministers to five, but otherwise, [the new Cabinet] conveys no sense of what it actually wants to achieve," said Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan executive Katsuya Okada.

Kishida is expected to compile a new economic package to deal with rising gasoline and food prices. Two people who lost posts in the shakeup had been touched by recent scandals.

Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Tetsuro Nomura was reprimanded by Kishida and apologized after calling treated radioactive wastewater being released from the Fukushima nuclear power plant "contaminated," a term China uses to characterize the water as unsafe. And magazine reports have alleged that Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Seiji Kihara influenced a police investigation of his wife over her ex-husband's suspicious death.

Kishida last shuffled his Cabinet a year ago after Abe's assassination revealed ties between senior governing party members and the Unification Church, a Korea-based conservative religious group.
No government has formally recognized the Taliban since they seized power from a U.S.-backed government in August 2021 when all American-led NATO troops withdrew after nearly 20 years of involvement in the Afghan war.

Beijing did not immediately signal if Zhao's appointment could lead to formal recognition of the Taliban government. "This is the normal rotation of China's ambassador to Afghanistan and is intended to continue advancing dialogue and cooperation between China and Afghanistan," the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement. "China's policy towards Afghanistan is clear and consistent."

On Wednesday, the Taliban-led foreign ministry said that Prime Minister Mohammad Hassan Akhund had accepted Ambassador Zhao Xing's credentials at a ceremony in the Afghan capital. Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi joined Akhund in welcoming the Chinese envoy at the presidential place.

China has sent a new ambassador to Afghanistan, marking the first time a foreign envoy has been appointed at the ambassadorial level since the Taliban regained power in Kabul two years ago.

The international community has been calling on the fundamentalist Afghan authorities to ease restrictions on women's access to education and work before accepting them as the country's legitimate government.

Muttaqi's office quoted him as telling the Chinese ambassador that his appointment is a "significant step, carrying a significant message." Zhao's predecessor, Wang Yu, assumed the role in 2019 and completed his term last month.

"China respects Afghanistan's national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity and will never interfere in Afghanistan's internal affairs," the Taliban statement quoted Zhao as telling Muttaqi. It said the Chinese envoy praised the "significant economic progress and improved security" Afghanistan has made in the last two years.

About two dozen countries currently have their embassies in Kabul, run by their senior diplomats using the title "charge d'affaires," which does not require presenting ambassadorial credentials to the host government.

India, Iran, Pakistan, Qatar, Russia, the United Arab Emirates and Uzbekistan are among the countries that have kept or reopened their diplomatic missions in Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover.

According to diplomatic sources in Kabul, several ambassadors appointed during the now-defunct Afghan government have stayed in Kabul, and some of them are close to finishing their terms.

Analysts say China's security concerns are driving its increased diplomatic engagement with the Taliban to prevent the conflict-torn country from sliding into chaos again, which could encourage anti-China militants to use Afghan soil as a launching pad for attacks against Chinese interests.

Beijing has taken steps to help the Taliban stabilize the Afghan economy and deal with a dire humanitarian crisis. Western nations suspended all financial aid and imposed economic sanctions on the new Kabul rulers after departing the country. Chinese investors have signed significant agreements with Kabul in the Afghan mining and oil sectors.

Skeptics question the viability of these contracts, citing international banking and financial sanctions. "We don't see Afghanistan as an area for geopolitical competition," Tom West, the U.S. special representative for the country, told a Tuesday seminar in Washington when asked how the U.S. would look at a potential increase in Chinese investment in the South Asian nation. "I have no objection to a greater Chinese intervention, and I also don't forecast that one will be forthcoming," West said.

Critics say China is not an advocate of the Taliban's religious government because it could cause radicalism to flourish in the region. "China is interested in Afghanistan's security and the potential development of terror groups in its immediate neighborhood," said Torek Farhadi, a senior regional analyst and former Afghan official. "This is why next to the new ambassador, the Chinese military attache is seated," he said, referring to the photo the Taliban official released after the meeting with Zhao.

"China is making very modest investments in Afghanistan, just to keep open access with the Taliban, but it is not willing to accept a Taliban ambassador-level representative in Beijing. For that, the Chinese have already asked the Taliban to modernize their government," Farhadi said.
The raging floods in Libya have killed more than 6,000 people, with another 10,000 reported missing, swept out to the Mediterranean Sea or buried under rubble, authorities said Wednesday.

Meanwhile, the International Organization for Migration said the flooding that hit eastern Libya has displaced more than 30,000 people.

The UN agency said at least 30,000 of the people forced to move lived in the devastated city of Derna, with thousands more from other areas, including Benghazi. Two dams above Derna burst, adding to the flooding from the torrential rains of Storm Daniel.

The exact death toll is difficult to confirm in a country where rival governments have competed for control for a decade. Some officials say the number of deaths could double.

Hichem Abu Chkiouat, minister of civil aviation in the administration that runs eastern Libya, told Reuters that more than 5,300 bodies had been counted in Derna. The city was the hardest hit from the flooding.

Atiyah Alhasadi, a 30-year-old teacher from Derna, told VOA's Heather Murdock he was in his home in the center of the city when he heard what sounded like "20 million drums exploding," and water crashed in, rising 50 meters above the houses.

Alhasadi said he and his family went to the roof of the building as the lower floors were flooded immediately and watched the water rise to the fourth or fifth floors of some buildings. He said his two aunts on the first floor died in the initial rush of water, but his family was able to escape to a relative's home on higher ground.
Cheyenne, WY (82001)

Today

Some passing clouds. Low near 30F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Some passing clouds. Low near 30F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Vostochny Cosmodrome spaceport in Amur Oblast on Wednesday.

Putin, who is notorious for being late to summits, arrived at the spaceport 30 minutes early to greet Kim. He hinted at providing satellite and missile technology to North Korea, while Kim threw himself body and soul behind Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

"Now Russia has risen to the sacred fight to protect its sovereignty and security against the hegemonic forces that oppose Russia," Kim said in a flowery address. "We have always expressed full and unconditional support for all the measures taken by the Russian government, and I take this opportunity again to affirm that we will always be with Russia."

"We believe with certainty that the Russian army and people will achieve a great victory in the just fight to punish the evil forces," he added.
Unemployment fell below 600,000 last month for the first time on record and the lowest level in the OECD, but young people and manufacturing workers lost out.

According to Statistics Korea on Wednesday, the number of employed people over 15 stood at 28.68 million in August, up by a whopping 268,000 from a year ago. That brought the unemployment rate down to two percent or 573,000 people, a record low.

Rising demand for childcare and increased travel lead to jobs growing by 138,000 in the health and welfare sector and by 121,000 in hospitality, a modest recovery from the pandemic.

But job growth was led by sectors that predominantly hire women and senior citizens.

In sectors that employ mostly men, by contrast, jobs are vanishing. The manufacturing sector continues to see a dearth of jobs for the eighth straight month, employing just 4.46 million people last month, down by 69,000 from a year ago, while employment fell for the ninth month in the construction sector. That led to a decrease of 13,000 in the number of employed men.
"YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL NO MATTER WHAT PHASE YOU'RE IN... NO MATTER WHAT WEIGHT, NO MATTER HOW YOU LIKE TO DO YOUR MAKEUP THESE DAYS, NO MATTER WHAT COSMETIC PROCEDURES YOU'VE HAD OR NOT, OR ANYTHING. I JUST THINK YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL AND WANTED TO SHARE SOME FEELINGS."
I am usually anywhere from a 12 - 16, but I ended up getting size 10s to hold everything in place, and to account for the stretch that always happens with togs. So, the world's gone mad (I haven't been a size 10 since I was about that age), but hopefully this means the bigger sizes will fit more people!
After extending Kuno area by 500 sqkm, cheetahs to be active in sprawling 1,249 sqkm





By Ankita Garg

Giving a gift on completion of a year in the country to the cheetahs, a total of 500 sqkm of area has been added up to the Kuno National Park (KNP). Now, cheetahs would have more space to be active in wild. Madhya Pradesh Forest Department is all set to celebrate the Cheetah Re-Introduction Day in India on September 17 with grandeur. On the day last year, eight cheetahs were brought from Namibia (2022) and released into Kuno National Park enclosure. To mark the day Union Forest and Environment Minister Bhupendra Singh Yadav and other senior officials of National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) will be visiting Kuno. Earlier, a big forest land, encompassing over 550 square kilometre that was earlier conserved for Madhavrao Scindia Sanctuary, was proposed to be added to the Kuno National Park, making it safe habitat and adequate space for the cheetah. The addition of forest land provides sufficient space to the cheetah for territory formation and killing prey. The original area of KNP as notified was 749 sq km and through of 550 sq km, it is now going to enjoy a sprawling 1,249 sq km area.

The 50 acres of forest land is situated between Madhav National Park in Shivpuri district and KNP was conserved to be developed as Madhavrao Scindia Wildlife Sanctuary. Concerned over the need of vast area for cheetah in Kuno, Government has decided to add the land in Kunos periphery. The proposal to develop Madhavrao Scindia Sanctuary is postponed as of now. According to reports, in January 2022, 19,279 hectare of forest land was identified for developing the sanctuary. As the area does not include any village, officials found it suitable for the big cats habitat. Proposal for the same was sent to the Government on September 16, 2019. Talking to The Hitavada DFO Prakash Verma said, 500 sqkm of area has been added in Kunos periphery. Preparation is going on to celebrate the one year of cheetah re-introduction plan in a grand way. Senior authorities, politicians and NTCA officials will be attending the programme. He further said that effort is being made to provide adequate space to cheetahs. In future cheetahs will be released into wild and then they need vast space.

DFO Verma further informed that currently there are 14 adults and one cub at KNP. As monsoon period is underway, all cheetahs are in an enclosure and medical team is keeping an eye on their health. Regular health check-up is being conducted on cheetah. Team has suggested to release them back to wild in October after monsoon gets over. The DFO said that after adding this forest, a corridor will be developed connecting Kuno National Park, Shivpuri jungle and Rajasthans Ranthambore as all these places come under 200 km of area.
Army Colonel, Major, Dy SP killed in gunfight with terrorists







SRINAGAR :

AN ARMY commanding officer, a Major and a Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police were killed in a gunfight with terrorists in the higher reaches of Kokernag area in the south of the valley, officials said here on Wednesday. Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Major Ashish Dhonack, and Deputy Superintendent Humayun Bhat were critically injured in the gunfight with terrorists that ensuedin the Garol area of Anantnag district in the morning hours of Wednesday.The officers succumbed to their injuries during the treatment, they said. Bhat, father of a two month-olddaughterandson of retired Inspector General ofJammu and Kashmir Police Ghulam Hasan Bhat, died due toheavy bloodloss, they added.

The banned Resistance Front,believedto be a shadow group of Pakistan-based Lashker-eToiba, has claimed responsibility for the attack. Officials believe that it is thesamesetofterroristswho hadcarriedoutthe attackon army personnel on August 4 killing three jawans in the higher reaches of the Halan forest area of Kulgam district. The operation against the terrorists began on Tuesday eveninginGarolareabutwas called off during the night. This morning,the hunt for the terrorists resumed after information started trickling that they were spotted at a hideout, the officials said. Colonel Singh, leading his team from the front,attacked the terrorists.

However, the terrorists fireduponhimand he was critically injured. Major Ashish and DSP Bhat were also hit by bullets resulting in critical injuries, they said. Senior army and police officers, GoC 15 Corps Lt General Rajiv Ghai and including DGP Dilbag Singh rushed to the spot to assess the situation. WARLIKE STORES, MEDICINES WITH PAKISTAN MARKINGS RECOVERED: Security forces have recoveredlargequantityofwarlike stores, including medicines, with Pakistan markings during a search amid the encounter that continuedon Wednesday evening according to officials. The Defence PRO, Lt Col Suneel Bartwal said that Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir police tracked the movement of two terrorists since September 7.
North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles towards the East Sea from Sunan in Pyongyang on Wednesday morning, about an hour ahead of leader Kim Jong-un's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Amur Oblast.

This is the first time the North has fired a missile while its leader is visiting a foreign country.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff here said the two missiles flew about 650 km and fell into the East Sea. The launches came about two weeks after the regime fired what it claimed were two long-range "strategic" cruise missiles towards the West Sea.

The firing in Kim's absence "suggests that Kim Jong-un has a military purpose in his visit to Russia," a government source here claimed. "There's a possibility that the North and Russia will stage joint military drills in the future."

In a statement, the JCS said, "We strongly condemn North Korea's constant ballistic missile launches as grave provocations that undermine the peace and stability of the Korean Peninsula as well as the international community, and a clear violation of UN Security Council resolutions."
Govt calls all-party meet on 17th ahead of spl Parlt session





NEW DELHI,

A MEETING of the floor leaders of all political parties has been convened on September 17, a day before the start of a five-day Parliament Session, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said on Wednesday. The invitation for the meeting has been sent to all concerned leaders through e-mail, Joshi posted on social media platform X. On August 31, Joshi had announced a special session of Parliament for five days from September 18, but did not spell out any specific agenda for it.

Amid Amrit Kaal, looking forward to having fruitful discussions and debate in Parliament, Joshi had posted on X. With no specific agenda announced so far for the session, speculations have been doing the rounds if it could be about womens reservation bill, Uniform Civil Code, simultaneous polls or other subjects. It is also expected that the Parliament proceedings will move from the old building to the new one during this session.

Opposition leaders hit out at the Government over the special session of Parliament, saying only two people know about its agenda with only a few days left for its commencement. Jairam Ramesh, the Congress General Secretary said in a post on X, Today is September 13. The five-day special session of Parliament will commence five days from now and nobody -- barring One Man (ok, perhaps the Other One too) -- has any sense of the agenda. Ramesh also listed several previous occasions when special sessions or special sittings were held and the list of business was known in advance.
IAF gets 1st of 56 C-295aircraft from Airbus





IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and Indian Ambassador to Spain Dinesh K Patnaik after receiving the first Airbus C-295 aircraft at Seville in Spain.

 By Manash Pratim Bhuyan

SEVILLE (Spain),

Under Rs 21,935 cr project, Airbus will deliver the first 16 aircraft in fly-away condition from its final assembly line in Seville by 2025 and the subsequent 40 aircraft will be manufactured and assembled by Tata Advanced Systems in India as part of an industrial partnership between the two companies

CHIEF of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari on Wednesday received the first of the 56 C-295 transport aircraft two years after India sealed a Rs 21,935-crore deal with Airbus Defence and Space to procure the jets to replace its ageing Avro--748 fleet. Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari, receiving the aircraft at the aerospace majors production facility in the southern Spanish city of Seville, described it as a momentous day for the IAF and India as 40 C-295 out of the total fleet will be manufactured inVadodara.

It is a momentousdayforus,forthe Indian Air Force in particular, and a nation as a whole to receive the first aircraft which marks the beginning of a new era, wherein we will bemanufacturing40ofthese aircraft in India, he said. Underthedeal,Airbuswill deliver the first 16 aircraft in fly-away condition from its final assembly line in Seville by 2025 and the subsequent 40 aircraft will be manufactured and assembled byTata Advanced Systems (TASL)in India as part of an industrial partnership between the two companies. It gives a tremendous boost to the capability of moving our forces to the frontline when required, Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari said.

The Chief of Air Staff also took a sortie on the new aircraft. The C295, in transport configuration and with an indigenousel ectronic warfare suite, willleave Airbus production site in Seville for Delhi on September15.It will be piloted by a jointIAF-Airbus crew. While the first aircraft was rolled out from Spain, the 17th aircraft will be assembled at the final assembly line in Barodain 2026. It will mark a historic momentas the first time a military transport aircraft will be fully manufactured in India, Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari told PTI. The first Make in India C295 will roll out of the Vadodara final assembly line in September 2026 in what will be a milestone for the Indian aerospace industry. The final aircraft is expected to be delivered to the IAF by August 2031.
Plan For 400 Million Jobs





By Satyaki Chakraborty

INTERNATIONAL Labour Organisation Director-General, Gilbert F. Houngbo, has welcomed the G20 Leaders support for the UN Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection for Just Transitions. In their final Declaration the G20 leaders pledged to, support progress on the implementation of the UN Global Accelerator, a UN initiative led by the ILO that aims to bring together UN Member States and a wide range of public and private sector partners to help create 400 million decent jobs and extend social protection coverage to the four billion people currently excluded. The leaders agreed to create a new Working Group on the Empowerment of Women. They reaffirmed the importance of gender equality and the promotion of, full, equal, effective and meaningful participation of women in the economy as decision-makers, adding that that such investment has a multiplier effect in implementing the 2030 Agenda. I heartily welcome the G20s endorsement of the Global Accelerator and its potential to deliver change and better working lives for hundreds of millions of people. The creation of the working group on womens empowerment is also an historic step forward, Houngbo said. The G20 leadership has made progress on some of the most crucial future of work issues facing us if we are to build a sustainable and equitable future. We must build on this momentum, particularly at the UN SDG Summit later this month. Following two days of discussions the leaders committed themselves to promote sustainable, quality, healthy, safe and gainful employment, address skill gaps, and ensure inclusive, adequate and sustainably financed social protection policies.

They endorsed a set of policy priorities for adequate and sustainable social protection and decent work for gig and platform workers. The Declaration also included pledges to promote well-managed migration, increase efforts to eliminate child labour and forced labour in global value chains, support youth employment and encourage skills for sustainable and inclusive economic development  including extending coverage of the ILO/OECD Skills for Jobs Databases to G20 countries. Speaking at the Summit, Houngbo stressed that effective policy responses to climate change needed to deliver on both climate targets and decent employment creation. If we dont recognise these issues a social backlash could make the transition even harder. It is essential we achieve a just transition. that greens the economy in ways that are fair, inclusive and leaves no one behind he said, adding that this would require three things: effective and inclusive social dialogue, new financing strategies for social protection, and the creation of decent employment. Here, the Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection for Just Transitionscan play a major role, he said. Houngbo also addressed the issue of the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the labour market. AI increases the need to invest in skilling people, he said. And it also increases the need to strengthen protections and employment for platform economy workers. Productivity gains from AI will need to be shared by all, in order to promote the development of society in the direction of increased social justice.

The G20 Leaders Summit was held in New Delhi, India on 9-10 September, under the theme One earth, one family, one future. In 2024 the rotating Presidency of the G20 will pass to Brazil, which will also host the first meeting of the Working Group on the Empowerment of Women. The summit decisions, if implemented, will be of big help to the global south in the area of new employment generation. The developing and the poor countries are suffering from the problem of acute joblessness and that is hampering their economic growth. The G 20 declaration of New Delhi gives some hope that the developed countries will take special measures to ensure larger job generation in the developing and the poor countries. As regards India which was the host country of the recently concluded G-20 summit, the employment crisis has accentuated due to the large increase in the youth work force. According to the UN report on World Population 2022, in India, in the age group of 9-22 years, the population will rise from 102 million in 202 to 130 million in 2025 and 191 million in 2030. For people between 23 and 40 years, the population will grow from 409 million in 202 to 522 million in 2025 and to 767 million in 2030. Presently, the unemployment rate in India is over 8 per cent and the new entrants, especially the youth are having a tough time in getting jobs. Studies show that 599 million people will be in job market in 2030 which is a humungous task.
PM in Raigarh today





Staff Reporter

RAIPUR,

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Raigarh on Thursday, September 14. The PMs arrival is eagerly anticipated, as it marks a crucial moment in the politics of Chhattisgarh. Prime Minister Modi is set to touch down in Raigarh at Kodatrai on September 14, with his arrival scheduled for 2 pm. This visit holds immense significance as it comes ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in the state. Following his arrival, Prime Minister Modi will address a massive public gathering. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been actively preparing for this event and has already announced its candidates for 21 assembly seats, putting the Congress party on the defensive. Adding to the political fervor, the BJP has initiated a Parivartan Yatra from Dantewada in Bastar, intensifying its campaign against the incumbent Congress Government in Chhattisgarh.

This Parivartan Yatra is set to commence on September 16 in North Chhattisgarh, and Prime Minister Modis Raigarh meeting is expected to boost the morale of BJP workers ahead of this crucial campaign. The BJP has extended direct invitations to hundreds of thousands of workers to attend Prime Minister Modis grand public meeting. The BJP leaders stated that during Prime Minister Modis previous public meeting in Raipur there was a record gathering. During that event, he unveiled the slogan Badalbo badalbo ye Daari Congress ke sarkar le badalbo, which has now become a rallying cry for BJP supporters. From the platform at Kodatrai in Raigarh, Prime Minister Modi is expected to address various critical issues, including the coal scam, ration scam, and corruption. This public meeting is also anticipated to see the Prime Minister unveiling several initiatives and gifts for the people of the region. Several prominent leaders of the BJP will be present at this gathering, including State BJP In-charge and senior BJP leader Om Mathur, BJP State President Arun Sao, former Chief Minister and National Vice-President of BJP Dr Raman Singh, State BJP CoIncharge Nitin Nabin and Raigarh MP Gomti Sai.
Putin praises PM Modis Make in Indiainitiative; says, its the right thing to do





VLADIVOSTOK :

PRESIDENT Vladimir Putin has praised Prime Minister Narendra ModisMake in India initiative and said Russia can emulate the success stories of its partners like India in promoting the growth of its domestic industries. Putin made these remarks on Tuesday while speaking at the Plenary session of the 8th Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, a major port city in sanctions-hit Russias Far East region. While responding to a question on Russian-made cars, Putin said, You know, we did not have domestically made cars then, but we do now. It is true that they look more modest than Mercedesor Audicars, which we bought in vast amounts in the 1990s, but this is not an issue.

I think that we should emulate many of our partners, for example, India. Prime Minister Modi launched the Make in India campaign in 2014 to facilitate investment,fosterinnovation, enhance skill development, protect intellectual property& build best-in-class manufacturing infrastructure. The Make in India initiative is based on four pillars, which have been identified to giveaboost to entrepreneurship in India, not only in manufacturing but also in other sectors. They are focused on the manufacture and use of Indian-made vehicles. I think that Prime Minister Modi is doing the right thing in promoting the Make in India programme.

He is right, the Russian leader said. He further added that it isabsolutely fine touse Russian made automobiles. We have (Russian-made) automobiles, and we must use them; this is absolutely fine. This will not lead to anyinfringementso four WTO obligations, absolutely not. It will concern state purchases. Wemust create a certain chainregarding what cars different classes of officials can drive sothat they will use domestically-made cars. Putin also said that the India Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)will inno way affect Russia in factit will benefit the country.
Shinde drops plan to meet Jarange; says, Govt committed to giving reservation to Marathas





MUMBAI,

MAHARASHTRA Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday did not travel to Jalna district to meet Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange but said his Government was making efforts to fulfill the demand of reservation for the Maratha community. He also claimed that his apparently flippant remark before a press conference on Monday, which was caught by the microphone, was presented in a distorted way. The Chief Minister, who was scheduled to visit Jalna and meet Jarange, who is on a hunger strike to press the demand of quota for the Marathas since August 29 at Antarwali Sarati village, did not go ahead with the plan, officials said.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar too did not travel to Jalna to meet the activist, instead some other ministers would be meeting him, sources said. Speaking to reporters late Tuesday night, Jarange had said he wanted Shinde to visit him so that he could withdraw the fast. In a statement on Wednesday, Shinde said his Government was taking concrete steps and decisions on the quota issue. It is not right to malign the states image by distorting situations and conversations on social media, he said. After an all-party meeting on the quota issue on Monday, he was talking to his deputies Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar about positively speaking on what transpired at the meeting, Shinde said. But our conversation was projected wrongly on social media. This is mischievous and creates doubts in peoples minds, he said.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar to grace MCU convocation on Sept 15





Senior Special

Correspondent

The convocation of Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism and Communication will be held on September 15 at Bishankhedi. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar will be the chief guest on this occasion to be held on Friday. He will also deliver the convocation address. On this auspicious day, the new campus named Makhanpuram of the States owned university will be inaugurated. Informing about the event, Vice Chancellor Professor (Dr) K G Suresh said that Chairman of General Council and Chief Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Minister for Public Relations Rajendra Shukla are scheduled to attend the ceremony. The ceremony is being held after a gap of five years. It will be held at Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Auditorium in Makhanpuram campus. PG and MPhil students, passed out in batches between June 2018 and June 2023, and PhD scholars will be conferred degrees in the ceremony. The university is organising the convocation for the first time at its new campus in Bishankhedi.

Talking about the new campus, he said that it spreads in 50 acres with 58 lakh sqft built-up area. Surrounded by agricultural fields and has an ambience of biodiversity adjacent to it. Prof Suresh said that the convocation ceremony was pending for a long time and could not be held due to the pandemic, but now this event is going to be held on September 15. Vice Chancellor Prof. Suresh expressed great happiness that for the first time in the history of the University, the convocation ceremony is being organized in the University's own Makhanapuram campus. While sharing information about the new campus, Prof. Suresh said that " it is due to the virtues and blessings of Dada Makhanlal Chaturvedi ji ,that the university, which started from two rooms, now has four campuses including one in Bhopal. "He furthur added that The universit y has sixteen hundred study centres in which about two lakh students are studying. While giving information, Makhanapuram campus near Bishankhedi, has two academic buildings , Takshashila and Vikram Shila. A total of ten departments function in these two grand blocks of four storey building of the university. As per NEP ,Department of Indian Languages has also been established in the university. Department of Cinema Studies : Professor Suresh said that Madhya Pradesh has emerged as a film friendly state and shootings of many films and serials take place in Bhopal throughout the year giving an excellent opportunity to the talented youngsters and artists of the city. This year a new department, Department of Cinema Studies, has been started by the university in which many big artists have also come to the university for seminars and lectures since the opening of this department including the entire star cast of Kerala Story.
A military parade in downtown Seoul on Sept. 26 will mark the 75th Armed Forces Day on Oct. 1 for the first time in a decade.

Korean soldiers will be joined by about 300 U.S. combat troops in the parade for the first time.

The military will show off home-grown missiles like the Hyunmu. A ceremony will be held on the tarmac of Seoul Air Base in Seongnam, Gyeongi Province at 10 a.m., with some 6,700 troops and about 68 different kinds of military equipment, according to the Defense Ministry Wednesday.

But the parade will start at 4 p.m. on a road between Sungnyemun or South Gate and Gwanghwamun in the heart of the capital.
Empower Advisory Group LLC bought a new stake in shares of Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund bought 2,298,206 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock, valued at approximately $95,031,000.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Verity Asset Management Inc. grew its stake in Pfizer by 103.3% during the 1st quarter. Verity Asset Management Inc. now owns 49,168 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $2,006,000 after acquiring an additional 24,978 shares in the last quarter. Toroso Investments LLC grew its stake in Pfizer by 18.6% during the 1st quarter. Toroso Investments LLC now owns 349,616 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $14,264,000 after acquiring an additional 54,919 shares in the last quarter. 3Chopt Investment Partners LLC purchased a new position in Pfizer during the 1st quarter valued at about $2,290,000. Raleigh Capital Management Inc. grew its stake in Pfizer by 23.3% during the 1st quarter. Raleigh Capital Management Inc. now owns 62,340 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $2,543,000 after acquiring an additional 11,800 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Arete Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Pfizer during the 1st quarter valued at about $3,596,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 68.05% of the companys stock.

Get Pfizer alerts:

Pfizer Stock Down 0.2 %

Shares of PFE stock opened at $34.08 on Thursday. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $35.90 and a 200-day moving average of $38.09. The company has a quick ratio of 1.82, a current ratio of 2.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.62. The firm has a market cap of $192.41 billion, a PE ratio of 9.06, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.14 and a beta of 0.59. Pfizer Inc. has a 12 month low of $33.54 and a 12 month high of $54.93.

Pfizer Dividend Announcement

Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, August 1st. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.67 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.57 by $0.10. The business had revenue of $12.73 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.36 billion. Pfizer had a return on equity of 28.36% and a net margin of 27.55%. Pfizers revenue was down 54.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $2.04 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts predict that Pfizer Inc. will post 3.33 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, September 5th. Investors of record on Friday, July 28th were paid a $0.41 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, July 27th. This represents a $1.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.81%. Pfizers payout ratio is 43.62%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts recently commented on PFE shares. StockNews.com started coverage on Pfizer in a research note on Thursday, August 17th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Morgan Stanley lowered their price target on Pfizer from $42.00 to $40.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, August 2nd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their price target on Pfizer from $45.00 to $41.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Monday, July 17th. Jefferies Financial Group lowered their price target on Pfizer from $40.00 to $38.00 in a research note on Wednesday, August 2nd. Finally, Barclays lowered their price target on Pfizer from $40.00 to $38.00 in a research note on Tuesday, July 11th. Twelve investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $46.35.

Get Our Latest Analysis on PFE

Pfizer Company Profile

(Free Report)

Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PFE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Pfizer Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pfizer and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
AngloGold Ashanti (NYSE:AU  Get Free Report) was upgraded by BMO Capital Markets from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a report released on Tuesday, Marketbeat.com reports. The brokerage currently has a $22.00 price objective on the mining companys stock, up from their prior price objective of $19.00. BMO Capital Markets price objective suggests a potential upside of 27.09% from the companys current price.

Separately, StockNews.com initiated coverage on AngloGold Ashanti in a research note on Thursday, August 17th. They set a hold rating for the company. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, one has issued a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $24.50.

Get AngloGold Ashanti alerts:

View Our Latest Research Report on AngloGold Ashanti

AngloGold Ashanti Trading Down 2.1 %

AngloGold Ashanti stock opened at $17.31 on Tuesday. AngloGold Ashanti has a one year low of $11.94 and a one year high of $30.26. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $19.07 and a 200-day simple moving average of $22.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.46, a quick ratio of 1.24 and a current ratio of 2.17.

AngloGold Ashanti (NYSE:AU  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, August 4th. The mining company reported $0.17 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.55 by ($0.38). The firm had revenue of $1.16 billion during the quarter. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that AngloGold Ashanti will post 1.12 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of AU. Wells Fargo & Company MN raised its stake in shares of AngloGold Ashanti by 2,619.5% during the 2nd quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 53,520 shares of the mining companys stock worth $1,129,000 after purchasing an additional 51,552 shares in the last quarter. Blueshift Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in AngloGold Ashanti in the second quarter valued at about $427,000. XTX Topco Ltd bought a new stake in shares of AngloGold Ashanti during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $476,000. Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd acquired a new stake in shares of AngloGold Ashanti during the 2nd quarter valued at $1,853,000. Finally, Lazard Asset Management LLC raised its holdings in AngloGold Ashanti by 161.3% in the 2nd quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 323,474 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $6,822,000 after buying an additional 199,667 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 22.36% of the companys stock.

AngloGold Ashanti Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

AngloGold Ashanti Limited operates as a gold mining company in Africa, the Americas, and Australia. The company explores for gold. Its flagship property is a 100% owned Geita project located in the Lake Victoria goldfields of the Mwanza region in north-western Tanzania. The company also owns 100% interest in the Iduapriem mine which covers 137 square kilometers located in the western region of Ghana; Obuasi project located in Ghana; AGA Mineracao in Brazil; Serra Grande located in central Brazil in the state of Goias; Greenfield Projects in the Beatty district in Nevada; and Sunrise Dam in Australia.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for AngloGold Ashanti Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AngloGold Ashanti and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Birmingham Capital Management Co. Inc. AL cut its holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK  Free Report) by 5.0% during the first quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 49,323 shares of the companys stock after selling 2,576 shares during the period. Merck & Co., Inc. makes up about 2.1% of Birmingham Capital Management Co. Inc. ALs portfolio, making the stock its 15th biggest holding. Birmingham Capital Management Co. Inc. ALs holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. were worth $5,247,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in MRK. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 103,159.7% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 39,327,490 shares of the companys stock worth $4,363,385,000 after buying an additional 39,289,404 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in the 4th quarter worth about $2,736,293,000. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD grew its holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. by 72.4% during the 4th quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 26,314,030 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,919,542,000 after purchasing an additional 11,051,945 shares during the last quarter. FMR LLC grew its holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. by 30.2% during the 1st quarter. FMR LLC now owns 35,734,925 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,801,839,000 after purchasing an additional 8,281,942 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP grew its holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. by 10.6% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 68,563,817 shares of the companys stock valued at $7,294,504,000 after purchasing an additional 6,546,946 shares during the last quarter. 74.59% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Get Merck & Co. Inc. alerts:

Insider Activity at Merck & Co., Inc.

In related news, EVP Steven Mizell sold 4,250 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, August 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $109.01, for a total transaction of $463,292.50. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 22,935 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,500,144.35. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. 0.20% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Merck & Co., Inc. Price Performance

Shares of MRK opened at $107.81 on Thursday. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $108.09 and a 200-day moving average price of $110.38. Merck & Co., Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $84.52 and a fifty-two week high of $119.65. The stock has a market capitalization of $273.57 billion, a PE ratio of 88.37, a PEG ratio of 4.26 and a beta of 0.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.88, a quick ratio of 1.03 and a current ratio of 1.28.

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 1st. The company reported ($2.06) earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($2.18) by $0.12. Merck & Co., Inc. had a net margin of 5.34% and a return on equity of 16.29%. The firm had revenue of $15.04 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.44 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.87 EPS. The companys revenue was up 3.0% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts predict that Merck & Co., Inc. will post 3.03 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Merck & Co., Inc. Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 6th. Investors of record on Friday, September 15th will be given a dividend of $0.73 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, September 14th. This represents a $2.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.71%. Merck & Co., Inc.s payout ratio is 239.34%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several brokerages recently commented on MRK. StockNews.com downgraded shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 31st. BMO Capital Markets upped their price target on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $102.00 to $113.00 in a report on Tuesday, July 18th. Morgan Stanley upped their price target on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $109.00 to $116.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday, August 2nd. TheStreet downgraded shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from an a- rating to a c+ rating in a report on Friday, September 1st. Finally, Cantor Fitzgerald restated an overweight rating and issued a $135.00 target price on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in a research note on Tuesday, September 5th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fifteen have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $124.74.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on MRK

Merck & Co., Inc. Profile

(Free Report)

Merck & Co, Inc operates as a healthcare company worldwide. It operates through two segments, Pharmaceutical and Animal Health. The Pharmaceutical segment offers human health pharmaceutical products in the areas of oncology, hospital acute care, immunology, neuroscience, virology, cardiovascular, and diabetes, as well as vaccine products, such as preventive pediatric, adolescent, and adult vaccines.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MRK? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Merck & Co. Inc. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Merck & Co. Inc. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
The leaders of Russia and North Korea held a summit at the Vostochny Cosmodrome spaceport in Amur Oblast on Wednesday. All eyes were on what price Russia would pay for artillery shells from North Korea. The North apparently wants Russia to transfer technology related to nuclear-powered submarines and satellites, which are part of its five strategic objectives. When asked before the summit whether Russia would transfer satellite technology to North Korea, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, "That's why we came here."

North Korea failed twice this year in attempts to put a spy satellite into orbit and has plans a third attempt next month. Another failure could have a detrimental impact on North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's image. Even the Soviet Union never transferred cutting-edge weapons technology to an ally, and no country can deal in any arms with North Korea due to UN Security Council sanctions imposed over Pyongyang's nuclear provocations, which include a ban on satellite launches. Russia supported those sanctions. It is unheard-of for the leader and entire war cabinet of a country to travel to a remote province thousands of kilometers from the capital to meet Kim. That befits only an international pariah.

If Russia gets North Korean munitions and transfers not only satellite but also intercontinental ballistic missile technology, the Korean Peninsula and the entire world face a serious problem. The same goes for nuclear-powered submarine technology. Some experts say Putin could even provide Kim with state-of-the-art jet fighters amid rumors that Kim will visit a Sukhoi jet factory in the Russian far east.
BKA Wealth Consulting Inc. bought a new stake in The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS  Free Report) in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm bought 646 shares of the investment management companys stock, valued at approximately $208,000.

A number of other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of GS. Tower View Investment Management & Research LLC acquired a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the 4th quarter worth approximately $27,000. Elequin Securities LLC acquired a new position in The Goldman Sachs Group during the 4th quarter worth $32,000. Pacific Center for Financial Services acquired a new position in The Goldman Sachs Group during the 1st quarter worth $33,000. Worth Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the first quarter valued at $33,000. Finally, NewSquare Capital LLC lifted its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 3,433.3% in the first quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 106 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $35,000 after buying an additional 103 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 69.06% of the companys stock.

Get The Goldman Sachs Group alerts:

The Goldman Sachs Group Stock Performance

GS opened at $334.98 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $110.43 billion, a PE ratio of 14.29, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.25 and a beta of 1.40. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $334.50 and a 200-day moving average of $330.90. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 52-week low of $287.75 and a 52-week high of $389.58. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.18, a quick ratio of 0.81 and a current ratio of 0.81.

The Goldman Sachs Group Increases Dividend

The Goldman Sachs Group ( NYSE:GS Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 19th. The investment management company reported $3.08 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $3.25 by ($0.17). The company had revenue of $10.90 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.61 billion. The Goldman Sachs Group had a return on equity of 8.27% and a net margin of 9.74%. The businesss revenue was down 8.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $7.73 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 25.74 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, September 28th. Investors of record on Thursday, August 31st will be paid a dividend of $2.75 per share. This is an increase from The Goldman Sachs Groups previous quarterly dividend of $2.50. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, August 30th. This represents a $11.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.28%. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio is presently 46.93%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages have recently issued reports on GS. UBS Group boosted their target price on The Goldman Sachs Group from $385.00 to $400.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, July 24th. Odeon Capital Group raised The Goldman Sachs Group from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $355.75 price target on the stock in a research report on Thursday, July 13th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on The Goldman Sachs Group in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Citigroup lowered The Goldman Sachs Group from a buy rating to a neutral rating and upped their price target for the company from $370.00 to $400.00 in a research report on Tuesday, July 25th. Finally, HSBC started coverage on The Goldman Sachs Group in a research report on Thursday, September 7th. They issued a buy rating and a $403.00 target price on the stock. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $396.04.

Read Our Latest Analysis on GS

Insider Activity at The Goldman Sachs Group

In related news, major shareholder Goldman Sachs Group Inc sold 1,145,486 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $11.73, for a total transaction of $13,436,550.78. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 50,099,392 shares in the company, valued at approximately $587,665,868.16. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. In other The Goldman Sachs Group news, major shareholder Goldman Sachs Group Inc sold 1,145,486 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $11.73, for a total value of $13,436,550.78. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 50,099,392 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $587,665,868.16. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CEO David M. Solomon sold 4,200 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $356.28, for a total value of $1,496,376.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 124,782 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $44,457,330.96. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 1,159,686 shares of company stock worth $18,390,027 in the last 90 days. 0.54% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

About The Goldman Sachs Group

(Free Report)

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in resale agreements.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding GS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust (NYSE:BFZ  Get Free Report) major shareholder Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 30,073 shares of BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust stock in a transaction on Tuesday, September 12th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $10.95 per share, for a total transaction of $329,299.35. Following the completion of the acquisition, the insider now owns 4,233,685 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $46,358,850.75. The acquisition was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Major shareholders that own more than 10% of a companys shares are required to disclose their transactions with the SEC.

BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust Trading Up 0.2 %

NYSE BFZ opened at $10.99 on Thursday. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $11.43. BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust has a one year low of $10.03 and a one year high of $12.10.

Get BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust alerts:

BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, October 2nd. Shareholders of record on Friday, September 15th will be paid a $0.039 dividend. This represents a $0.47 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.26%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, September 14th.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust

BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust Company Profile

Several large investors have recently made changes to their positions in BFZ. Integrated Wealth Concepts LLC bought a new stake in BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust in the 2nd quarter valued at $141,000. Woodline Partners LP lifted its holdings in shares of BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust by 1,207.5% in the second quarter. Woodline Partners LP now owns 202,382 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,400,000 after purchasing an additional 186,904 shares in the last quarter. Quarry LP acquired a new position in shares of BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust during the second quarter worth about $149,000. Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. grew its holdings in shares of BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust by 2.8% during the second quarter. Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. now owns 125,101 shares of the companys stock worth $1,484,000 after buying an additional 3,446 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Sit Investment Associates Inc. acquired a new stake in BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $5,298,000.

(Get Free Report)

BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched by BlackRock, Inc It is managed by BlackRock Advisors, LLC. The fund invests in fixed income markets. It invests primarily in investment grade municipal bonds that are exempt from regular federal and California income taxes.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
StockNews.com downgraded shares of Crown (NYSE:CCK  Free Report) from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report report published on Monday morning.

Other analysts also recently issued reports about the stock. Citigroup boosted their target price on shares of Crown from $102.00 to $114.00 in a report on Wednesday, July 26th. Royal Bank of Canada increased their price target on Crown from $97.00 to $115.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, July 27th. Bank of America lowered their price target on shares of Crown from $106.00 to $101.00 in a research report on Monday, July 10th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on shares of Crown from $88.00 to $93.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, August 10th. Finally, Barclays boosted their price objective on shares of Crown from $95.00 to $110.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 25th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have issued a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Crown presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $103.38.

Get Crown alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Crown

Crown Trading Up 0.9 %

Shares of NYSE CCK opened at $90.24 on Monday. Crown has a 52-week low of $66.00 and a 52-week high of $97.94. The firms 50 day moving average price is $90.05 and its 200-day moving average price is $85.03. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.57, a quick ratio of 0.76 and a current ratio of 1.30. The company has a market cap of $10.88 billion, a PE ratio of 22.79, a P/E/G ratio of 2.88 and a beta of 1.10.

Crown (NYSE:CCK  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Monday, July 24th. The industrial products company reported $1.68 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.65 by $0.03. The company had revenue of $3.11 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.46 billion. Crown had a net margin of 3.84% and a return on equity of 27.45%. The firms revenue was down 11.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $2.10 EPS. On average, equities research analysts expect that Crown will post 6.19 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Crown Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, August 24th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, August 10th were paid a dividend of $0.24 per share. This represents a $0.96 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.06%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, August 9th. Crowns payout ratio is currently 24.24%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, COO Gerard H. Gifford sold 9,784 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, September 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.24, for a total transaction of $902,476.16. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now owns 123,399 shares in the company, valued at approximately $11,382,323.76. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. In other news, VP Christy L. Kalaus sold 1,914 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, August 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $90.67, for a total value of $173,542.38. Following the sale, the vice president now owns 7,500 shares in the company, valued at $680,025. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, COO Gerard H. Gifford sold 9,784 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.24, for a total value of $902,476.16. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now owns 123,399 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $11,382,323.76. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.90% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Crown

Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of CCK. BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S boosted its position in Crown by 101.8% during the 1st quarter. BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S now owns 438 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $36,000 after acquiring an additional 221 shares during the last quarter. Tobam bought a new position in shares of Crown in the second quarter worth about $58,000. Quarry LP bought a new position in shares of Crown in the 1st quarter valued at $58,000. Fifth Third Bancorp grew its holdings in shares of Crown by 91.9% during the second quarter. Fifth Third Bancorp now owns 691 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $60,000 after purchasing an additional 331 shares during the last quarter. Finally, UniSuper Management Pty Ltd acquired a new position in Crown in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $78,000. Institutional investors own 95.18% of the companys stock.

Crown Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Crown Holdings, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, supplies rigid packaging products in Pennsylvania and internationally. It operates through Americas Beverage, European Beverage, Asia Pacific, and Transit Packaging segments. The Americas Beverage segment manufactures recyclable aluminum beverage cans and ends, glass bottles, steel crowns, and aluminum caps.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Crown Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Crown and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Fortis Group Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE:ROK  Free Report) during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm purchased 759 shares of the industrial products companys stock, valued at approximately $215,000.

Other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Aspire Private Capital LLC bought a new stake in shares of Rockwell Automation during the 1st quarter valued at $11,444,550,000. New Hampshire Trust bought a new stake in shares of Rockwell Automation during the 4th quarter valued at $26,000. Clear Street Markets LLC bought a new stake in shares of Rockwell Automation during the 4th quarter valued at $30,000. Delta Asset Management LLC TN bought a new stake in shares of Rockwell Automation during the 4th quarter valued at $32,000. Finally, First Manhattan Co. raised its position in shares of Rockwell Automation by 150.0% during the 4th quarter. First Manhattan Co. now owns 125 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $32,000 after purchasing an additional 75 shares during the period. 80.84% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Get Rockwell Automation alerts:

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, VP Scott Genereux sold 500 shares of Rockwell Automation stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $297.62, for a total transaction of $148,810.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 2,876 shares in the company, valued at approximately $855,955.12. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. In related news, VP Scott Genereux sold 500 shares of Rockwell Automation stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $297.62, for a total transaction of $148,810.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 2,876 shares in the company, valued at approximately $855,955.12. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, SVP Tessa M. Myers sold 677 shares of Rockwell Automation stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $301.18, for a total transaction of $203,898.86. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 2,880 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $867,398.40. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 1,327 shares of company stock valued at $401,459. Company insiders own 0.64% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

ROK has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Rockwell Automation in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Citigroup raised their target price on shares of Rockwell Automation from $334.00 to $375.00 in a research note on Monday, July 10th. Bank of America cut their target price on shares of Rockwell Automation from $375.00 to $335.00 in a research note on Wednesday, August 2nd. Barclays cut shares of Rockwell Automation from an equal weight rating to an underweight rating and cut their target price for the company from $300.00 to $287.00 in a research note on Wednesday, August 30th. Finally, Wolfe Research raised shares of Rockwell Automation from an underperform rating to a peer perform rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 11th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $289.00.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on ROK

Rockwell Automation Price Performance

ROK stock opened at $285.47 on Thursday. Rockwell Automation, Inc. has a 12 month low of $209.27 and a 12 month high of $348.52. The company has a current ratio of 1.12, a quick ratio of 0.76 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.79. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $314.49 and a 200 day moving average price of $298.55. The stock has a market cap of $32.79 billion, a PE ratio of 23.28, a P/E/G ratio of 2.06 and a beta of 1.45.

Rockwell Automation (NYSE:ROK  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 1st. The industrial products company reported $3.01 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $3.19 by ($0.18). Rockwell Automation had a return on equity of 40.33% and a net margin of 16.51%. The firm had revenue of $2.24 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.33 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $2.66 earnings per share. Rockwell Automations revenue for the quarter was up 13.7% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts anticipate that Rockwell Automation, Inc. will post 11.94 earnings per share for the current year.

Rockwell Automation Company Profile

(Free Report)

Rockwell Automation, Inc provides industrial automation and digital transformation solutions in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Asia Pacific, and Latin America. The company operates through three segments, Intelligent Devices, Software & Control, and Lifecycle Services. Its solutions include hardware and software products and services.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ROK? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE:ROK  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Rockwell Automation Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rockwell Automation and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Suzano (NYSE:SUZ  Get Free Report) is one of 15 publicly-traded companies in the Paper mills industry, but how does it contrast to its rivals? We will compare Suzano to similar businesses based on the strength of its analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, profitability, valuation, earnings, risk and dividends.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

2.5% of Suzano shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 71.2% of shares of all Paper mills companies are owned by institutional investors. 6.0% of shares of all Paper mills companies are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

Get Suzano alerts:

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of recent ratings and recommmendations for Suzano and its rivals, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Suzano 0 0 1 0 3.00 Suzano Competitors 111 700 465 46 2.34

Profitability

As a group, Paper mills companies have a potential upside of 27.99%. Given Suzanos rivals higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe Suzano has less favorable growth aspects than its rivals.

This table compares Suzano and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Suzano 47.44% 64.65% 17.21% Suzano Competitors 7.57% 15.88% 6.15%

Volatility and Risk

Suzano has a beta of 1.16, suggesting that its share price is 16% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Suzanos rivals have a beta of 1.40, suggesting that their average share price is 40% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Suzano and its rivals gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Suzano $49.00 billion $4.53 billion 2.98 Suzano Competitors $8.67 billion $701.85 million 31.01

Suzano has higher revenue and earnings than its rivals. Suzano is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

Dividends

Suzano pays an annual dividend of $0.32 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.1%. Suzano pays out 9.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, Paper mills companies pay a dividend yield of 4.2% and pay out 145.9% of their earnings in the form of a dividend. Suzano has raised its dividend for 1 consecutive years.

Summary

Suzano beats its rivals on 8 of the 15 factors compared.

About Suzano

(Get Free Report)

Suzano S.A. produces and sells eucalyptus pulp and paper products in Brazil and internationally. It operates through Pulp and Paper segments. The company offers coated and uncoated printing and writing papers, paperboards, tissue papers, and market and fluff pulps; and lignin. It also engages in the research, development, and production of biofuel; operation of port terminals; power generation and distribution business; commercialization of equipment and parts; industrialization, commercialization, and exporting of pulp and standing wood; road freight transport; biotechnology research and development; and commercialization of paper and computer materials. In addition, the company is involved in the business office, production packaging, and financial fundraising activities; research, development, production, commercialization, and distribution of wood-based textile fibers, yarns, and filaments produced from cellulose and microfibrillated cellulose; and research and development of wood raw materials for the textile industry. Suzano S.A. was formerly known as Suzano Papel e Celulose S.A. and changed its name to Suzano S.A. in April 2019. The company was founded in 1924 and is headquartered in Salvador, Brazil.

Receive News & Ratings for Suzano Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Suzano and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Mister Car Wash, Inc. (NYSE:MCW  Get Free Report)s share price was down 3% during trading on Tuesday following insider selling activity. The stock traded as low as $6.15 and last traded at $6.19. Approximately 154,178 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 89% from the average daily volume of 1,393,185 shares. The stock had previously closed at $6.38.

Specifically, CFO Jedidiah Marc Gold sold 4,079 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $8.46, for a total value of $34,508.34. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 23,588 shares of the companys stock, valued at $199,554.48. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. In other Mister Car Wash news, CFO Jedidiah Marc Gold sold 4,079 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $8.46, for a total value of $34,508.34. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 23,588 shares of the companys stock, valued at $199,554.48. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, CEO John Lo-Minn Lai sold 33,904 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $8.46, for a total value of $286,827.84. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 2,564,226 shares in the company, valued at $21,693,351.96. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 1,108,409 shares of company stock valued at $9,014,622. 71.20% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Get Mister Car Wash alerts:

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

MCW has been the topic of a number of research reports. Morgan Stanley lowered their target price on Mister Car Wash from $10.00 to $7.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Monday. Guggenheim initiated coverage on Mister Car Wash in a research report on Thursday, June 29th. They set a buy rating and a $11.00 target price on the stock. Piper Sandler raised Mister Car Wash from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and upped their target price for the stock from $9.00 to $12.00 in a research report on Monday, August 28th. Finally, William Blair initiated coverage on Mister Car Wash in a research report on Friday, September 8th. They set an outperform rating on the stock. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $10.00.

Mister Car Wash Price Performance

The company has a fifty day moving average of $8.06 and a 200-day moving average of $8.48. The firm has a market cap of $1.89 billion, a P/E ratio of 23.48, a P/E/G ratio of 4.62 and a beta of 1.21. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.05, a current ratio of 0.97 and a quick ratio of 0.93.

Mister Car Wash (NYSE:MCW  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, August 3rd. The company reported $0.07 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.08 by ($0.01). Mister Car Wash had a return on equity of 11.61% and a net margin of 10.06%. The company had revenue of $236.89 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $240.54 million. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Mister Car Wash, Inc. will post 0.26 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its stake in Mister Car Wash by 4.4% in the 2nd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 23,348 shares of the companys stock valued at $254,000 after purchasing an additional 991 shares during the period. Victory Capital Management Inc. grew its stake in shares of Mister Car Wash by 4.2% during the 2nd quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 31,948 shares of the companys stock worth $308,000 after acquiring an additional 1,276 shares during the period. National Bank of Canada FI grew its stake in shares of Mister Car Wash by 39.4% during the 1st quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 4,950 shares of the companys stock worth $43,000 after acquiring an additional 1,400 shares during the period. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. grew its stake in shares of Mister Car Wash by 2.6% during the 1st quarter. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. now owns 72,054 shares of the companys stock worth $621,000 after acquiring an additional 1,803 shares during the period. Finally, State of Tennessee Treasury Department grew its stake in shares of Mister Car Wash by 4.5% during the 1st quarter. State of Tennessee Treasury Department now owns 42,851 shares of the companys stock worth $369,000 after acquiring an additional 1,854 shares during the period.

Mister Car Wash Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Mister Car Wash, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides conveyorized car wash services in the United States. It offers express exterior and interior cleaning services. The company was formerly known as Hotshine Holdings, Inc and changed its name to Mister Car Wash, Inc in March 2021. Mister Car Wash, Inc was founded in 1969 and is headquartered in Tucson, Arizona.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Mister Car Wash Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mister Car Wash and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Raleigh Capital Management Inc. raised its position in Elevance Health, Inc. (NYSE:ELV  Free Report) by 314.0% during the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 592 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 449 shares during the period. Raleigh Capital Management Inc.s holdings in Elevance Health were worth $272,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in ELV. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD purchased a new position in Elevance Health in the 4th quarter valued at $6,527,828,000. Geode Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in Elevance Health in the 4th quarter valued at $2,160,082,000. Sanders Capital LLC purchased a new position in Elevance Health in the 4th quarter valued at $1,991,235,000. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Elevance Health by 844.0% during the 1st quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 2,966,205 shares of the companys stock worth $148,413,000 after acquiring an additional 2,651,986 shares during the period. Finally, Alliancebernstein L.P. purchased a new position in shares of Elevance Health during the 4th quarter worth $1,285,920,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 87.80% of the companys stock.

Get Elevance Health alerts:

Analysts Set New Price Targets

ELV has been the topic of several analyst reports. Morgan Stanley lifted their price target on Elevance Health from $571.00 to $585.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, July 25th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on Elevance Health in a report on Thursday, August 17th. They set a strong-buy rating on the stock. Truist Financial reduced their price target on Elevance Health from $580.00 to $560.00 in a report on Tuesday, June 20th. Wolfe Research lowered shares of Elevance Health from an outperform rating to a peer perform rating in a report on Wednesday, July 12th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada restated an outperform rating and issued a $572.00 price objective on shares of Elevance Health in a report on Thursday, July 20th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eleven have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $568.46.

Insider Transactions at Elevance Health

In other news, Director Robert L. Dixon, Jr. sold 310 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, July 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $476.71, for a total transaction of $147,780.10. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 9,638 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,594,530.98. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Corporate insiders own 0.35% of the companys stock.

Elevance Health Stock Performance

NYSE ELV opened at $443.19 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $104.44 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.60, a P/E/G ratio of 1.13 and a beta of 0.83. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65, a current ratio of 1.44 and a quick ratio of 1.44. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $455.78 and a two-hundred day moving average of $459.41. Elevance Health, Inc. has a 1-year low of $412.00 and a 1-year high of $549.52.

Elevance Health (NYSE:ELV  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, July 19th. The company reported $9.04 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $8.78 by $0.26. The company had revenue of $43.38 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $41.64 billion. Elevance Health had a return on equity of 20.24% and a net margin of 3.87%. Elevance Healths revenue was up 12.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $8.04 EPS. As a group, analysts anticipate that Elevance Health, Inc. will post 32.91 EPS for the current year.

Elevance Health Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 22nd. Stockholders of record on Friday, September 8th will be given a dividend of $1.48 per share. This represents a $5.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.34%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, September 7th. Elevance Healths dividend payout ratio is presently 22.17%.

About Elevance Health

(Free Report)

Elevance Health, Inc operates as a health benefits company. The company operates through four segments: Commercial & Specialty Business, Government Business, CarelonRx, and Other. It supports consumers, families, and communities across the entire care journey connecting to the care, support, and resources to lead healthier lives.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Elevance Health Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Elevance Health and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Rolls-Royce Holdings plc (LON:RR  Get Free Report)s stock had its neutral rating reiterated by research analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. in a report issued on Tuesday, MarketBeat Ratings reports. They presently have a GBX 235 ($2.94) price objective on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co.s price objective points to a potential upside of 4.31% from the stocks current price.

RR has been the subject of a number of other research reports. Shore Capital reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc in a research note on Friday, July 28th. Berenberg Bank restated a hold rating and set a GBX 100 ($1.25) price target on shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc in a report on Thursday, June 22nd. Finally, Barclays lifted their target price on shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc from GBX 145 ($1.81) to GBX 156 ($1.95) and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, June 13th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of GBX 152.20 ($1.90).

Get Rolls-Royce Holdings plc alerts:

View Our Latest Analysis on Rolls-Royce Holdings plc

Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Stock Up 0.4 %

Insider Buying and Selling at Rolls-Royce Holdings plc

Shares of LON:RR opened at GBX 225.30 ($2.82) on Tuesday. The company has a 50 day moving average price of GBX 189.19 and a 200 day moving average price of GBX 163.93. The firm has a market capitalization of 18.97 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 1,181.05, a P/E/G ratio of 0.24 and a beta of 1.74.

In related news, insider Panos Kakoullis purchased 7,771 shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, June 28th. The stock was bought at an average price of GBX 155 ($1.94) per share, for a total transaction of 12,045.05 ($15,073.27). In other news, insider Panos Kakoullis purchased 7,771 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, June 28th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of GBX 155 ($1.94) per share, with a total value of 12,045.05 ($15,073.27). Also, insider Wendy Mars purchased 1,246 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, July 7th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of GBX 146 ($1.83) per share, for a total transaction of 1,819.16 ($2,276.51). Over the last 90 days, insiders bought 19,724 shares of company stock valued at $3,586,971. Corporate insiders own 0.09% of the companys stock.

About Rolls-Royce Holdings plc

(Get Free Report)

Rolls-Royce Holdings plc operates as an industrial technology company in the United Kingdom and internationally. The company operates in four segments: Civil Aerospace, Defence, Power Systems, and New Markets. The Civil Aerospace segment develops, manufactures, markets, and sells aero engines for large commercial aircraft, regional jet, and business aviation markets, as well as provides aftermarket services.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rolls-Royce Holdings plc and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Squarespace, Inc. (NYSE:SQSP  Get Free Report) gapped down before the market opened on Tuesday following insider selling activity. The stock had previously closed at $31.28, but opened at $30.59. Squarespace shares last traded at $30.56, with a volume of 6,813 shares trading hands.

Specifically, CEO Anthony Casalena sold 37,515 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, June 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $29.91, for a total transaction of $1,122,073.65. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 4,819,178 shares in the company, valued at $144,141,613.98. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other Squarespace news, CEO Anthony Casalena sold 37,515 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, June 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $29.91, for a total value of $1,122,073.65. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 4,819,178 shares in the company, valued at $144,141,613.98. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, insider Paul Gubbay sold 4,876 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, August 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $30.34, for a total transaction of $147,937.84. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 20,363 shares in the company, valued at $617,813.42. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 385,834 shares of company stock worth $12,034,811 over the last quarter. Company insiders own 47.14% of the companys stock.

Get Squarespace alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

SQSP has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. William Blair reissued an outperform rating on shares of Squarespace in a research note on Thursday, June 8th. DA Davidson initiated coverage on shares of Squarespace in a research note on Wednesday, July 26th. They issued a buy rating and a $40.00 price objective for the company. The Goldman Sachs Group increased their price objective on shares of Squarespace from $30.00 to $34.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 9th. Royal Bank of Canada increased their price objective on shares of Squarespace from $30.00 to $32.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 9th. Finally, Piper Sandler increased their price objective on shares of Squarespace from $35.00 to $38.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 9th. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $34.08.

Squarespace Price Performance

The companys 50-day simple moving average is $31.11 and its 200 day simple moving average is $30.09. The firm has a market cap of $3.99 billion, a P/E ratio of -18.20 and a beta of 0.42.

Squarespace (NYSE:SQSP  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, August 8th. The company reported $0.03 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.20 by ($0.17). The firm had revenue of $247.50 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $243.34 million. Squarespace had a negative return on equity of 2.24% and a negative net margin of 23.60%. Squarespaces revenue was up 16.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $0.45 EPS. Analysts anticipate that Squarespace, Inc. will post 0.28 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Squarespace

Several institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in SQSP. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its holdings in shares of Squarespace by 438.4% in the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 3,169,388 shares of the companys stock worth $100,691,000 after acquiring an additional 2,580,712 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its holdings in Squarespace by 56.3% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 3,645,279 shares of the companys stock valued at $93,392,000 after buying an additional 1,313,755 shares in the last quarter. First Trust Advisors LP bought a new stake in Squarespace during the 1st quarter valued at about $27,254,000. BlackRock Inc. lifted its holdings in Squarespace by 38.7% during the 2nd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 3,427,924 shares of the companys stock valued at $108,117,000 after buying an additional 956,920 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Acadian Asset Management LLC lifted its holdings in Squarespace by 266.0% during the 2nd quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 1,160,423 shares of the companys stock valued at $36,582,000 after buying an additional 843,404 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 43.73% of the companys stock.

Squarespace Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Squarespace, Inc operates platform for businesses and independent creators to build online presence, grow their brands, and manage their businesses across the internet. Its suite of integrated products enables users to manage their projects and businesses through websites, domains, e-commerce, marketing tools, scheduling, and hospitality services, as well as tools for managing a social media presence.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Squarespace Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Squarespace and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Teradata Co. (NYSE:TDC  Get Free Report) CEO Stephen Mcmillan sold 7,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, September 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $44.39, for a total value of $332,925.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 517,997 shares in the company, valued at $22,993,886.83. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link.

Stephen Mcmillan also recently made the following trade(s):

Get Teradata alerts:

On Friday, August 11th, Stephen Mcmillan sold 7,500 shares of Teradata stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $45.26, for a total value of $339,450.00.

Teradata Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:TDC opened at $44.28 on Thursday. The company has a current ratio of 0.97, a quick ratio of 0.96 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.58. Teradata Co. has a 12 month low of $28.65 and a 12 month high of $57.73. The company has a market capitalization of $4.42 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 77.68, a PEG ratio of 2.47 and a beta of 0.98. The firms 50-day moving average is $49.73 and its 200 day moving average is $45.86.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Teradata

Teradata ( NYSE:TDC Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Monday, August 7th. The technology company reported $0.48 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.45 by $0.03. Teradata had a return on equity of 32.47% and a net margin of 3.21%. The business had revenue of $462.00 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $445.09 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $0.03 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 7.4% compared to the same quarter last year. Research analysts predict that Teradata Co. will post 1.02 EPS for the current year.

Hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. UMB Bank n.a. lifted its position in shares of Teradata by 214.9% during the second quarter. UMB Bank n.a. now owns 551 shares of the technology companys stock worth $29,000 after purchasing an additional 376 shares during the last quarter. Hanseatic Management Services Inc. bought a new stake in Teradata during the 2nd quarter valued at about $42,000. Parallel Advisors LLC boosted its position in Teradata by 81.1% in the 1st quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC now owns 880 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $35,000 after buying an additional 394 shares during the period. CWM LLC grew its stake in Teradata by 115.9% in the 2nd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 881 shares of the technology companys stock worth $47,000 after acquiring an additional 473 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board purchased a new position in shares of Teradata during the first quarter worth approximately $44,000. Institutional investors own 91.02% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research firms have weighed in on TDC. Morgan Stanley upped their price target on Teradata from $51.00 to $74.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, August 8th. Citigroup lifted their price target on shares of Teradata from $55.00 to $62.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, August 9th. Barclays dropped their price objective on shares of Teradata from $47.00 to $46.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, August 8th. TheStreet cut Teradata from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a report on Thursday, August 17th. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on Teradata in a research report on Wednesday, August 23rd. They issued a strong-buy rating on the stock. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, two have given a hold rating, five have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $54.00.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on TDC

About Teradata

(Get Free Report)

Teradata Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides a connected multi-cloud data platform for enterprise analytics. The company offers Teradata Vantage, a data platform that allows companies to leverage their data across an enterprise, as well as connects various sources of data to drive ecosystem simplification and support customers on their journey to the cloud through an integrated migration.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Teradata Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Teradata and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
The U.S. on Thursday sanctioned more than 150 businesses and individuals in Russia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Georgia to try to crack down on evasion of trade restrictions aimed at blocking funding for Russia's 19-month war against Ukraine.

The newest sanctions package is one of the biggest imposed by the State Department and the U.S. Treasury. It targets those who are selling Western technology to Moscow to aid its war effort, particularly businesses and people in Turkey, a member of the Western military pact that is allied in support of Ukraine.

The sanctions, which block any assets the businesses and individuals might have in the U.S., are also aimed at hobbling the development of Russia's energy sector that provides war funding, including Arctic natural gas projects, along with mining and factories producing and repairing Russian weapons.

In addition, the U.S. package targets several Turkish and Russian companies that the State Department says help Moscow source U.S. and European electronic components -- such as computer chips and processors -- that can be used in civilian and military equipment.

The State Department also is targeting Turkish companies that have provided ship repair services to a company affiliated with Russia's Defense Ministry.
Sweetgreen, Inc. (NYSE:SG  Get Free Report)s stock price traded down 2.2% during trading on Tuesday after an insider sold shares in the company. The company traded as low as $13.58 and last traded at $13.62. 126,675 shares were traded during mid-day trading, a decline of 93% from the average session volume of 1,826,641 shares. The stock had previously closed at $13.93.

Specifically, CFO Mitch Reback sold 5,504 shares of Sweetgreen stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, August 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $13.39, for a total value of $73,698.56. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 457,026 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,119,578.14. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, insider James Mcphail sold 11,000 shares of Sweetgreen stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $14.76, for a total transaction of $162,360.00. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 131,107 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,935,139.32. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CFO Mitch Reback sold 5,504 shares of Sweetgreen stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $13.39, for a total transaction of $73,698.56. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 457,026 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,119,578.14. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders sold 176,021 shares of company stock valued at $2,470,417. Company insiders own 22.03% of the companys stock.

Get Sweetgreen alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Morgan Stanley reiterated an equal weight rating and set a $14.00 price target on shares of Sweetgreen in a research note on Monday, July 31st. Bank of America upgraded shares of Sweetgreen from a neutral rating to a buy rating and lifted their price target for the stock from $9.00 to $17.00 in a research note on Thursday, July 6th. Piper Sandler upgraded shares of Sweetgreen from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and lifted their target price for the company from $13.00 to $19.00 in a research note on Monday, July 31st. Finally, TD Cowen lowered their target price on shares of Sweetgreen from $16.00 to $14.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, July 28th. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Sweetgreen has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $13.50.

Sweetgreen Stock Performance

The company has a market capitalization of $1.42 billion, a P/E ratio of -8.87 and a beta of 1.99. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $14.48 and its 200-day simple moving average is $10.83.

Sweetgreen (NYSE:SG  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 27th. The company reported ($0.20) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.19) by ($0.01). The company had revenue of $152.53 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $155.99 million. Sweetgreen had a negative net margin of 30.29% and a negative return on equity of 26.30%. As a group, analysts forecast that Sweetgreen, Inc. will post -0.93 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Trading of Sweetgreen

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Comerica Bank bought a new stake in shares of Sweetgreen in the 2nd quarter worth about $59,000. Asset Dedication LLC bought a new stake in shares of Sweetgreen in the 2nd quarter worth about $58,000. California State Teachers Retirement System grew its holdings in Sweetgreen by 50.5% during the 2nd quarter. California State Teachers Retirement System now owns 114,011 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,462,000 after purchasing an additional 38,272 shares during the last quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. grew its holdings in Sweetgreen by 291.9% during the 2nd quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. now owns 27,471 shares of the companys stock valued at $352,000 after purchasing an additional 20,462 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Nuveen Asset Management LLC grew its holdings in Sweetgreen by 2.3% during the 2nd quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC now owns 250,138 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,207,000 after purchasing an additional 5,645 shares during the last quarter. 79.21% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Sweetgreen Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Sweetgreen, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, develops and operates fast-casual restaurants serving healthy foods prepared from seasonal and organic ingredients. The company also accepts orders through its online and mobile ordering platforms, as well as sells gift cards that can be redeemed in its restaurants.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Sweetgreen Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Sweetgreen and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Passengers check in their luggage at the Fuzhou Changle International Airport in Fuzhou, capital of southeast China's Fujian Province, May 22, 2023. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan)

BEIJING, Sept. 12 (Xinhua) -- China will make Fujian Province a demonstration zone for the integrated development across the Taiwan Strait, according to a circular released on Tuesday.

The circular, jointly issued by the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council, said the move is aimed at deepening the cross-Strait integrated development in all fields and advancing the peaceful reunification of the motherland.

The document listed the general requirements and 21 specific measures for building the zone.

Fujian, situated on China's southeast coast, should leverage its distinctive advantages and harness a variety of resources to further enhance integrated cross-Strait development, according to the circular.

The circular said policies and systems will be optimized to promote the well-being of Taiwan compatriots and ensure they enjoy equal treatment with their mainland counterparts.

The objective, said the circular, is to make Fujian the first-choice destination for Taiwan residents and enterprises to pursue development on the mainland. The province will see more convenient personnel exchanges with Taiwan when the demonstration zone is built, it added.

By then, trade and investment across the Strait will be smoother, and cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation will expand to more fields and in greater depth.

The circular added that the pair cities of Xiamen and Kinmen, Fuzhou and Matsu will play an even more prominent exemplary role in promoting the cross-Strait integrated development.

The circular sent positive signals and will help Fujian explore more policy measures for the benefits of Taiwan, said Zhang Wensheng, deputy director of the Graduate Institute for Taiwan Studies of Xiamen University.

FIRST-CHOICE DESTINATION

The circular noted that Fujian should work to build multidimensional and comprehensive transport corridors and hubs linking itself with Taiwan and further open up channels connecting Fujian and Taiwan with other mainland regions.

Taiwan residents who have never been to the mainland are welcomed to visit Fujian. Students are welcomed to study in Fujian and employees are encouraged to work in Fujian.

Enterprises, especially Taiwan enterprises based in Fujian, are urged to hire more Taiwan employees, and Taiwan-based physicians are allowed to practice in Fujian.

Taiwan compatriots are encouraged to take part in social welfare programs. They will no longer need to register for temporary residence in Fujian.

The province should strengthen the institutional support for employment, health services, housing, elderly care services and social assistance of Taiwan compatriots in Fujian and improve cross-Strait judicial services.

"Me and my friends from Taiwan believe it is a right choice to chase our dreams on the mainland," said Lo Ting-jyun, a young Taiwan resident who is residing in Fujian.

DEEPER ECONOMIC INTEGRATION

Fujian should provide better business environment for Taiwan compatriots and enterprises and deepen Fujian-Taiwan industrial cooperation, the circular said.

It should support the development of world-class industrial bases and manufacturing clusters that pool resources from both Fujian and Taiwan, and build a multi-tiered cross-Strait financial market.

Greater support will be given to Taiwan agriculture and fishery enterprises operating in Fujian and sci-tech innovation cooperation between the province and Taiwan should be enhanced.

"Taiwan enterprises and business people are earnestly looking forward to the implementation of the measures," said Wu Chia-ying, executive vice president of the Association of Taiwan Investment Enterprises on the Mainland.

Wu particularly spoke highly of the preferential policies in the circular regarding Fujian-Taiwan industrial cooperation and the development of Taiwan's agriculture and fishery enterprises and small and medium-sized firms.

INTEGRATION IN WHOLE PROVINCE

The integrated development between Xiamen and Kinmen will be accelerated. Kinmen residents living in Xiamen can enjoy the same treatment as local residents and efforts will be made to explore a model for Xiamen-Kinmen joint infrastructure development, facilitating the supplies of electricity and gas and the construction of bridges from Xiamen to Kinmen, and supporting Kinmen in using Xiamen's new airport.

The circular also announced support for the integrated development of Fuzhou and Matsu, noting measures including supporting the Fuzhou government to entitle Matsu residents in Fuzhou to the same treatments as local residents, setting up a Fuzhou-Matsu industrial cooperation park, and promoting the supplies of water, electricity and gas and the construction of bridges from Fuzhou to Matsu.

Support will be given to the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Area in accelerating all-round opening up to Taiwan and other parts of Fujian are encouraged to expand exchanges with Taiwan. Quanzhou and Zhangzhou, both Minnan-dialect-speaking regions, are encouraged to develop themselves into a global center for Minnan culture.

PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE EXCHANGES

The circular stressed the importance of expanding the social and cultural exchanges and cooperation between Fujian and Taiwan. It called for various forms of exchanges based on the two regions' bond of the belief in the Chinese sea goddess Mazu and other folk beliefs.

The circular encouraged communication and exchanges between young generations in Fujian and Taiwan. It suggested the two regions promote integrated development in culture, and jointly apply for the listing of Minnan red-brick buildings and Mazu cultural relics as World Cultural Heritage.

The circular called for an organizational guarantee for cross-Strait integrated development, including stronger financial support from the central budget to Fujian in this regard.


The chimney at the nearby refinery looms over the entrance to one of the main forums at the Carteia site in San Roque. MARCOS MORENO

Back in 171 B.C. a delegation representing more than 4,000 men born to Roman soldiers and Hispanic women stood before the Roman Senate to demand their rights. The participants in the scene must have been so unique that the Roman historian Livy defined them as a new species, halfway to between full Roman citizens and not citizens at all. Although, in practice, they only asked for a city to live in and a plot of land. They were granted Carteia, an ancient Phoenician town on the Strait of Gibraltar, dating from the 7th century B.C. The concession made it the first Roman colony outside the territory of present-day Italy. But not even its importance in the history of Hispania could save it from its current fate: languishing behind the chimneys of a refinery.

Unlike the well-known Roman town of Baelo Claudia nearby, Carteia has been forsaken. But while the ruins of the Baelo Claudia are an archaeological complex today  with a museum, its own management and extensive visiting hours  Carteia is just an enclave that is managed by the Andalusian Agency for Cultural Institutions and does not even have a visitor center. It has limited openings  mornings from Wednesday to Sunday  and only seven workers to monitor the 27-hectare (66-acre) site. Its a shame, as an ancient city it is very important and from a heritage point of view, it is very interesting (). It is a city from the [Iberian] Peninsulas Roman past and that is clear to those involved in the world of research, says Lourdes Roldan, professor of Ancient Art at the Autonomous University of Madrid.

The recent history of Carteia as a site is linked to the sociopolitical development of the Campo de Gibraltar and the development of the petrochemical hub that is a blot on the landscape of today. Although there is evidence of the existence of archaeological remains in the area at least since the 16th century, it was not until the 1950s and 1960s that they were excavated and had their boundaries defined. These works were essential for the construction of the San Roque refinery that borders the enclave. Sealing the border [with Gibraltar, decreed by the Franco regime in 1969] led to these industries being set up and the deterioration of the entire environment. It is surrounded on three sides by the chimneys, and now it takes more effort to make the site more attractive, recalls Margarita Garcia, the sites former coordinator.

Outdoor pool at the main Carteia forum in San Roque (Cadiz, Spain). MARCOS MORENO

The chimneys that loom over the site  which has the remains of a Punic wall, a Roman temple from the time of the Republic, a thermal building, several domus, and salting factories  are also an obstacle for the professor in Archeology from the University of Cadiz, Dario Bernal. I have excavated the site for years, and you can see and smell the refinery. Whats more, it is a site that opened to the public later than others, and you have to travel to see it. It is also very big. The distances within the site are greater and that makes it more complex, he says. Roldan, who has studied the remains for decades, provides more reasons for the apparent indifference that surrounds the place: Its unfortunate that not everything that has been done has been published, so it isnt as well known on a scientific level. Nothing about the site had been published until we at the UAM started working on it in 1994.

The work of Roldans team served to date the oldest vestiges of the then-Phoenician city to the 7th century B.C. It also helped to understand Carteia as a strategic location that joined East and West, Europe and Africa. It was a place of transit and contact. The towns economy was basically seafood, fishing, and salting, adds the professor. The history of the Roman Empire also reserves its space for it, thanks to the fact that in the year 171 B.C. Carteia became the first colony under Roman law, outside of present-day Italy, after those sons of Roman soldiers and Hispanic women asked the Senate for a place to settle. But it turned out that the concession from Rome gave them a new status, as well as a home. It does not imply that the inhabitants of Carteia were previously slaves, but rather that they were outside the Roman legal system. When the question was posed to the Senate, they found that the best formula was the one they already followed with the freed slaves, explains Professor of Ancient History at the University of Cadiz Lazaro Lagostena. The professor at the University of Cambridge and Princess of Asturias award winner Mary Beard went further and called the decision revolutionary, because it established the principle that you could be a Roman citizen of some sort having anything to do with Rome and Italy itself, as she stated when she visited the enclave in her BBC television series, Rome, an empire without limit.

The hot springs at Carteia. Visitors can take tour of the site, which covers 10 percent of the former city. MARCOS MORENO

Already on that televised walk, Beard was surprised that, despite its importance, Carteia was a place that you have to be pretty determined to find: I dont think its on the main tourist beat. Still, being cut off has had its phases. Margarita Garcia became coordinator of the enclave between 2001 and 2007, in a period in which she was appointed by the commission and given the role to liaise between the Boards Directorate of Cultural Assets and the City Council to improve the management of the enclave. They were good years to publicize a site that even has three bunkers built on it by the Franco regime during the Second World War, due to fear of an invasion by the Allies. But interest soon waned, and no one replaced Garcia in her position, neither the archaeologist nor the restorer who once owned the site. Today there is no team, there is no one in charge to promote the development of Carteia. That should be a joint effort between [local] administrations and all those industries that are there and whose location makes them responsible for Carteia not being Baelo, the former coordinator complains.

But in the indifference that apparently suffocates the site, there was a straw that broke the camels back. Last March, a bureaucratic problem led to the space to being closed for several days, after the only guide was left without a contract. The Department of Culture of the Andalusian government sorted the mess out a few days later, but the torch of unrest was already lit. Garcia joined social and environmental groups to demand a change in the administrative catalog so that the property would be listed as an archaeological complex. The fundamental thing is its management. That cannot be administered by a provincial coordinator whose work center is spread over 120 kilometers, says the activist. The group, which has already demonstrated at the gates of the enclave, even managed to get the Andalusian Parliament to pass a proposal in May to change the management of Carteia.

The Carteia site also preserves part of the defensive lines built by the Franco regime in the first half of the 20th century. MARCOS MORENO

The Andalusian Ministry of Culture has said that the change to an archaeological complex is being considered and they closed ranks with the site by reminding the public that in April, regional minister Arturo Bernal visited the excavations that the University of Cadiz was carrying out, which were focused on the thriving salting industry that the Roman city had. There, the lawmaker limited himself to ensuring that the staff was correctly trained. But Professor Dario Bernal believes that human resources are quite limited. It is a very important site, it is very well-preserved and archaeologically well understood. Any effort they make will be small. It should be a model site. The problem is that there is so much heritage in Andalusia that it is very difficult to maintain it all. It is not a cheap investment, the archaeologist adds. But Margarita Garcia has not lost hope and states: It is time to take care of what industry has taken away.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
The Federal Government of Nigeria, the United States, and France are committed to address security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea during the 2023 Lagos International Maritime Week.

According to a statement on Tuesday, the organizers of the event, Zoe Maritime Resources Limited, noted that part of the things to be addressed include, port development, transportation, law and arbitration, training and education as well as environment and women in maritime.

It stated, The LIMWEEK proposes to be a week of activities showcasing the best of the maritime industry."

Zoe Maritime Resources also explained that the LIMWEEK, the event that includes the 8th International Maritime Business to Business Conference, will take place on September 19, 2023.

The conferences theme is titled MARPOL at 50  Pollution from Ships, Africas Commitment to Clean Oceans, Seas, Inland Waters and the Marine Environment.

Similarly, Zoe Maritime Resources Limited noted that the conference will have in attendance, the Minister of Marine and the Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; Executive Secretary of the Gulf of Guinea Commission, Jose Abeso and the immediate past Executive Secretary of the Gulf of Guinea Commission based in Angola, Adenike Ukonga.

As the convener of the programme, Oritsematosan Edodo-Emore, has expressed that after 50 years of its legislative existence it was essential to see how Nigeria and Africa have followed through with this global commitment to keeping the marine environment clean and safe from pollution from ships.
As clear collaboration between the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, and the National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, Dele Oye, as they expressed their support for bolstering bilateral trade ties between Nigeria and India.

The case was made by the Nigerian President and the NACCIMAs president, alongside other stakeholders at the Nigeria-India Presidential Roundtable and Conference, held recently, in New Delhi, India.

They showcased the development of deeper economic connections, the formation of robust trade partnerships, and the promotion of increased investments that would be advantageous for both nations.

While President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that his government was undertaking holistic reforms and policies in various sectors to transform Nigeria as the most conducive country for foreign investments, the NACCIMA boss also noted the need to strengthen ties and unlock new economic opportunities to facilitate growth and prosperity in both Countries.

According to the NACCIMA boss, he said, Nigeria and India have diverse economies with a wide range of industries, and exploring these markets can open up a new vista of opportunities for trade in various sectors, including agriculture, technology, energy, and manufacturing. Nigerian businesses can tap into Indias vast population, while Indian companies can access Nigerias sizable market, leading to increased sales and revenue for businesses in both countries."
Mafia blitz spurs gun amnesty

BANGKOK: Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has imposed a 30-day deadline on a special amnesty offered to gun owners who lack a proper permit, meaning they have a month to hand in such firearms at any police station before facing a renewed crackdown.

corruptioncrimeviolencepolitics

By Bangkok Post

Thursday 14 September 2023 09:02 AM

Police display weapons seized in a crackdown on illegal firearms across the country at the police training centre in Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi, in July. Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb

The move yesterday (Sept 13) came as a joint team of 100 police and other officials raided 21 spots in Nakhon Pathom and seized about 16 guns and 200 bullets from a mafia-like network linked to last weeks shooting of a highway police officer at a dinner party held at the home of Praween Chanklai, aka Kamnan Nok, a local leader and construction business operator, reports the Bangkok Post.

Mr Srettha has assigned Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to form a special team to implement the month-long amnesty, said Chai Wacharonke, government spokesman.

Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaiset, who was previously assigned by Anutin to lead the nationwide screening of local leaders linked with influential mafia-like gangs in a bit to blacklist them, said all provinces are working on the assignment.

The operation was ordered by Anutin in response to the murder of Pol Maj Sivakorn Saibua, an officer of Highway Police Division 2, in Nakhon Pathom.

A police source said nine of the guns were seized from the home of Pol Sgt Maj Pisit Chiewpreecha, who Mr Praween had reportedly asked Pol Maj Sivakorn at the party to award a special promotional transfer.

Pol Maj Sivakorn reportedly refused to agree to Mr Praweens request before a gunman killed him.

Deputy national police chief Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn said two cars believed to be used by the suspects when fleeing the scene were found at a firm linked with Mr Praween.
Miracle escape from injury as crane topples at construction of new mall

PHUKET: A crane toppling and crushing the cab of a truck at the new Robinson Lifestyle shopping mall under construction on Chao Fa East Rd in Chalong yesterday (Sept 13) luckily resulted in no injuries.

constructionaccidents

By The Phuket News

Thursday 14 September 2023 10:22 AM

So far no official reports have recognised the incident, which occurred at about 1:30pm, though a post online by the Phuket Info Center noted that it is believed the crane toppled as it was lifting too much weight.

Photos of the scene showed the crane arm had come down across the front of the building, bringing down steel support structures with it. Large concrete supports, presuambly waiting to be lifted into place, were on the ground in front of the crane.

The crane truck itself, brought in from Samut Prakan, had tipped fully, with all 12 wheels in the air.

The crane arm had landed on and crushed the drivers side of the truck cab. The truck driver was standing nearby at the time, but his wife was still in the cab, sitting in the passenger seat.

She escaped with no injuries.

The truck driver later told reporters that it was a miracle she was not hurt. He also gave praise to an amulet of Luang Pho Daeng of Wat Rae in Thai Mueang District, Phang Nga, that he carries at all times.

According to the report, the shopping mall is scheduled to open ot the public next Wednesday (Sept 20).

UPDATE: The Robinson Public Company Limited Head Office in Bangkok today (Sept 14) issued the following statement, originally in Thai, about the incident:

14 September 2023

Subject: Clarifying the crane collapse incident

Dear media

On September 13, 2023 at 1:40pm, a crane fell on a truck while performing work in the area of Gate 3 at the Robinson Lifestyle Chalong Shopping Center, causing damage to the truck.

The rescue team was ready and the team rushed to inspect the scene and found that only the crane and truck were slightly damaged. After the incident The team coordinated with the contractor to proceed with vehicle recovery and to clear the area within the period of just half an hour.

However, Robinson Lifestyle Shopping Center is not complacent about the incident, which has been strictly enforced also contractors and related persons to prevent this kind of incident from happening again.

Best regards

Robinson Lifestyle Shopping Center
Phuket Public Prosecutors sentenced to jail for corruption

PHUKET: Two former Phuket Public Prosecutors, Thamma Chinchot Sornjai and Wanchat Chunhathanom, have been sentenced to jail after they were found guilty of demanding a bribe of B10 million to have charges dropped against a foreign-led developer for encroaching on Sirinath National Park.

corruption

By The Phuket News

Thursday 14 September 2023 05:06 PM

Wanchat Chunhathanom is one of two former Phuket public prosecutors sentenced to jail for demanding a B10-million bribe to drop charges against a developer for encroaching on Sirinath National Park. Photo: PR Phuket / file

Thamma was sentenced to 12 years in prison for soliciting the bribe, reports Isra news.

Thamma held the position of Expert Prosecutor at the Office of Public Prosecution Region 8 and Chief of Phuket Provincial Public Prosecutors Office at the time.

Wanchat, who was Provincial Prosecutor under the Phuket Provincial Office of the Attorney General (OAG) at the time, was sentenced to eight years imprisonment for his role in supporting the bribe.

The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases Region 8 handed down its sentence on Tuesday (Sept 12), said OAG spokesperson Kosonwat Inthuchanyong.

Key to the court handing down its verdict was an audio clip confirming the demand for B10mn to have the charges dropped, Mr Kosonwat added.

Mr Thamma had offered the company representatives that he would persuade the Phuket Governor to not charge their company. He then met with the company representatives many times and asked for money, Niwatchai Kasemmongkol, spokesman for the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), explained when the charges were first announced in 2020.

The Phuket Governor at that time was Phakaphong Tavipatana.

Both men have the right to appeal the verdict, and the sentence, noted the report by Isra news.

Wanchat has reportedly already filed his appeal to the Supreme Administrative Court, and has filed a lawsuit against the Office of the Attorney General and the Prosecutors Committee and Chairman of the Prosecutors Committee for damages.
Stray puppy becomes millionth animal to be neutered and vaccinated by Soi Dog Foundation

A one-eyed stray puppy in Thailand has become the millionth animal to be neutered and vaccinated by animal welfare organisation Soi Dog Foundation.



By Soi Dog Foundation

Thursday 14 September 2023 03:58 PM

Veterinary support staff member James cares for a puppy at a mobile clinic in the southern province of Phattalung. Soi Dog Foundation is currently operating five such clinics in Southern Thailand. Photo: Soi Dog Foundation

A Soi Dog Foundation mobile team stand proudly in front of a banner marking the milestone of one million stray animals neutered and vaccinated. Photo: Soi Dog Foundation

Soi Dog Foundations Bangkok Mobile Veterinary Manager Dr Nat checks on a recently neutered stray dog. The foundation works in the city with the support of Dogs Trust Worldwide. Photo: Soi Dog Foundation

Million, a one-eyed stray puppy from Nakhon Sri Thammarat, was the millionth dog to be neutered and vaccinated by Soi Dog Foundation since its founding in 2003. Photo: Soi Dog Foundation

Aptly named Million, the homeless puppy was taken in by one of the foundations mobile sterilisation teams after she was found on the streets of Nakhon Sri Thammarat, and soon after became the millionth animal to pass through its large-scale spay/neuter and vaccination programme since its founding in 2003.

It is the first time in history that this number of stray animals has been neutered and vaccinated by a single organisation.

This incredible achievement simply would not have been possible without the support of our donors around the world, said Soi Dog Foundation co-founder and president John Dalley MBE.

Dogs like Million deserve so much better than to be born into short lives of suffering on the streets. It is, and has always been, our mission to get to the root cause of that suffering by means of sterilisation, and we are grateful to have supporters who wholeheartedly believe in that mission too, he added.

John and his late wife Gill, who hail from Yorkshire, UK, established Soi Dog Foundation in Phuket in order to address the overpopulation of stray dogs  known as soi dogs  after retiring to the Thai island in 2003. From humble beginnings, it has steadily grown to become the largest stray animal welfare organisation in Southeast Asia and this year celebrates its 20th anniversary.

The foundations spay/neuter and vaccination programme  known as its CNVR (Catch, Neuter, Vaccinate, Return) programme  has been at the forefront of its work from the very start.

The CNVR approach is widely recognised as the most humane and effective way of reducing the overpopulation of stray animals and stemming the spread of disease, including rabies.

In our first three months, we managed to sterilise 175 animals and just over 1,200 the entire following year. Although those numbers sound small, as with anything in life you have to start somewhere, said John.

Fast-forward to today, and the foundation is now neutering and vaccinating more than 20,000 animals like Million every single month through its mobile teams and partner projects across Thailand.The programme has produced clear results in Phuket, where sustained efforts have reduced the stray population by over 90% and where disease control is such that the island is set to officially become Thailands first rabies-free province.

Yearly surveys conducted by the International Companion Animal Management Coalition (ICAM) show similarly positive results in Greater Bangkok, where the foundation has neutered and vaccinated over half a million animals. The large stray population in the capital is steadily declining, and a more compassionate attitude towards animals is being fostered by local communities.

Supporting these efforts in Greater Bangkok is Dogs Trust Worldwide  the international arm of the UKs largest dog welfare charity  who have funded half of the programme there since 2016.

Soi Dog Foundation receives no government funding to carry out its work and is solely dependent upon donations from kind individuals and grant-funding organisations like Dogs Trust Worldwide who share its passion for improving the lives of stray animals.

Were so proud to have been an integral partner to the project in Bangkok since 2016, said Director of Dogs Trust Worldwide Karen Reed.

We are committed to improving the lives of dogs and the relationship dogs have with the communities in which they live all around the world, so we know just how important this project continues to be for every single dog and cat.

On behalf of everyone here at Dogs Trust Worldwide, we congratulate Soi Dog Foundation on reaching this milestone, she added.

Soi Dog Foundation also operates rescue, treatment, humane education and community outreach programmes from its shelter in Phuket. It was at the shelters state-of-the-art dog hospital that Million herself underwent further surgery to remove her right eye which had been badly injured after she was hit by a car  sadly an all-too-common occurrence for stray dogs who are left to roam the streets freely.

With the stray dog population in Thailand sitting at an estimated 10-12 million, the foundation is committed to continuing to grow its CNVR programme, operating it in tandem with its other programmes which all form part of its holistic approach to enhancing animal welfare in Asia.
The announcement that the Netflix-backed documentary No me llame Ternera  Dont Call Me Ternera  will be screened on September 22 at the San Sebastian International Film Festival in northern Spain has triggered protest. The film features an interview by journalists Jordi Evole and Marius Sanchez with Josu Urrutikoetxea, better known as Josu Ternera, who was a leading figure within the Basque terrorist group ETA and one of its most ruthless members. Can a festival give airtime to such a man? Might it not feel like an affront to his victims?

An open letter titled Against the whitewashing of ETA and Josu Ternera, published on Monday night and signed by 500 people, called for the withdrawal of the 101-minute film. However, festival organizers have confirmed that it will be screened as planned. It is a very interesting film for many reasons, says the festivals director, Jose Luis Rebordinos. It kicks off with a victim and ends with a victim. The fact a victim has the first and last word is a declaration of principles. Everyone is going to be able to see it without a fuss.

The current controversy over the films screening is reminiscent of the protests that accompanied the 2003 documentary La pelota vasca  The Basque Ball: Skin Against Stone  by Julio Medem. The situation in Spain now, however, is very different: ETA announced the definitive cessation of its armed activity in 2011, although during the last election campaign the armed groups ghost resurfaced on the back of Que te vote Txapote (Let Txapote vote for you), a slogan using the name of a convicted ETA terrorist that was chanted by the far right to attack Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in response to his political dealings with the left-wing Basque pro-independence party EH Bildu.

Evole and Sanchez have both confessed to being surprised by the written protest against the films screening: We understand that a film about an interview with a member of ETA can generate debate, but we are surprised that people are expressing their opinion and even requesting that a documentary that none of the signatories have seen be pulled from the festival, said Evole. We believe in our work and stand by it. It is not a documentary that whitewashes or justifies ETA. However, Evole does realize the films potential for controversy. We knew it was something that could happen, he said. ETAs terrorism is an issue that still causes a lot of pain in our country, because it is very recent, and it was devastating. But we did not imagine that there would be people opposing the documentary before even seeing it.

Jordi Evole and Josu Ternera, in an image from the documentary 'Don't call me Ternera'.

The two journalists insist that they respect all opinions provided they are based on an actual viewing of the film. Regarding any pain caused to victims, they have issued a statement saying, We are well aware of the pain caused by this violence and of the impact that the mere news of the existence of the film could trigger. The film features a direct victim of an attack in which Urrutikoetxea participated  this person opens and closes the film and thanked us for having shown them the interview because it provided them with information they did not know about the attack they were a victim of.

Josu Ternera has been charged by Spanish prosecutors with 11 murders and 88 attempted murders (as many as there were wounded people in the 1987 attack on the Civil Guard barracks in Zaragoza, where five of the deceased were children), and is looking at a sentence of 2,354 years in prison. After 17 years on the run, he was arrested four years ago in France and has been on probation since 2020 while waiting for the resolution of a French case before extradition to Spain.

ETA terrorism and violence in the Basque Country have always been reflected at a film festival that is held in a city located at the heart of Spains Basque Country. In 1979, Gillo Pontecorvos Operation Ogre, about the assassination of former prime minister and Franco right-hand man Luis Carrero Blanco by ETA, was withdrawn from the official section three days before its screening as there were alleged problems with the Spanish version of the film, which departed from the international version. El Proceso de Burgos  Burgos Trial  by Imanol Uribe, a director known for his work portraying the Basque conflict, was shown the same year. Uribe also premiered the 1981 La fuga de Segovia (Escape from Segovia) at San Sebastian and the 1994 Dias contados (Numbered Days), which won the Concha de Oro, the only film about ETA to do so.

Eloy de la Iglesias El Pico (Overdose) was also screened here in the 1980s, although the boom of films about ETA came in the 21st century, with milestones such as Eterio Ortegas documentary Asesinato en febrero (Murder in February) in 2001; then there was La pelota vasca, by Julio Medem, and movies such as the 2008 Tiro en la cabeza (Bullet in the Head) by Jaime Rosales, an icy portrait of an attack; the 2014 Negociador (Negotiator) by Borja Cobeaga, and Maixabel, by Iciar Bollain, in 2020, a year that also saw the HBO release of the series Patria (Homeland), adapted from the novel by Fernando Aramburu.

The murder central to the series 'Patria.' HBO ESPANA

In the last decade, films about terrorism have multiplied. There have been 15 directly exploring the topic and others that touch on it. This is mostly due to the explosion of the documentary format that works well on streaming platforms. In 2022, there was 918 Gau, by Arantza Santesteban; Gesto, by Xuban Intxausti, and Hirugarren Koadernoa, by Lur Olaizola. We have a very complicated history of violence, Rebordinos explains. With ETA finished, it is easier to make films about different points of view, which is what interests me. Its easy to say that ETA did monstrous things  which is true  and say thats the end of it. But, when it comes to history, you have to analyze, listen and learn so that it doesnt repeat itself.

The San Sebastian Film Festival depends on a board of trustees comprised of the regional Basque government, the City Council, the Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa and the Spanish Ministry of Culture. The mayor of San Sebastian, Eneko Goia from the Basque Nationalist Party (PNV), explains: As a member of the public rather than mayor, I am old enough and have enough intellectual capacity to judge a film by myself. And I dont like anyone censoring what I can see or what I can read, because that belongs to a bygone era. I dont understand the positions that are proliferating lately in an exaggerated way. I totally agree with the director of the film festival.

Jose Luis Rebordinos, director of the Zinemaldia and Eneko Goia, mayor of San Sebastian, on the left at the presentation of the 2022 edition of the film festival. efe

Regarding the controversy surrounding the screening of Dont Call Me Ternera, Goia adds, I have not noticed any debate or controversy. Here, people are taking it in stride. The viewers will decide whether to watch the documentary or not, and then each one can give their own opinion.

Among the 514 signatories of the protest letter there are intellectuals, journalists, politicians and victims of terrorism such as Mari Mar Blanco (whose brother Miguel Angel was kidnapped and executed by ETA in 1997).

'Patria' author Fernando Aramburu signed the protest letter against the documentary.

One of the protest letters signatories, the writer Fernando Aramburu, whose novel Patria was turned into an HBO series and premiered at the 2020 San Sebastian Film Festival, explained his position from his home in Hanover, Germany: I agree with some statements by the festival director, who months ago, in a bid to oppose fascism, publicly stated that culture must not be silent. This is what I have done by signing the protest letter. Mr. Rebordinos indicated that he was closing the festival door to [Spains hard right party] Vox, a party that speaks its mind, certainly in debatable fashion, but as far as I know is not dedicated to planting bombs or shooting anyone in the back of the head. The festival also, by the way, closed the door on a documentary by Inaki Arteta that was critical of terrorism. Obviously, he does not apply the same yardstick to a man for whom the adjective bloodthirsty would be an understatement. The festival is held in a city where the group led by the interviewee murdered most of his victims, almost 100. It must be unpleasant to walk down the street and come face to face with a poster advertising a movie about the person who orphaned you or killed your son or daughter; him or any of his underlings.

Regarding the need to see the film before demanding its withdrawal, he adds, It is a flawed argument. No one is judging the content, the documentary value of which I have no doubts about. What is being questioned is the opportunity to offer a platform, a showcase, a red carpet, to a terrorist par excellence during a particular celebration of unquestionable cultural value and widespread international projection, with an astounding lack of tact.

Blanca Portillo and Maixabel Lasa, during the filming of 'Maixabel' by Iciar Bollain. David Herranz

Inaki Arteta, who has been filming documentaries on the Basque conflict since 2005, said that he supports the screening of the Josu Ternera documentary but I do understand that the victims feel it as an affront, probably because they are not clear about the result of an interview carried out by Evole.

A protest by the Association of Victims of Terrorism against Julio Medem's film 'La pelota vasca' at the 2004 Goya Awards. efe

According to Koldo Zuazua, who was the executive producer of Julio Medems documentary,its a controversy born out of ignorance as we havent yet seen Dont Call Me Ternera. It is very similar to what happened with La pelota vasca. Before giving an opinion, you have to know.

But is it necessary to give a platform to murderers who have shown no remorse for their actions? It is not about giving them a voice, but about listening to what the man says, Zuazua explains. That does not mean agreeing with him or whitewashing him. Im certainly going to see it. And I support Rebordinos, who has offered to show the film to the signatories of the protest letter in an earlier screening.

With reporting by Mikel Ormazabal.
Bare, pink-lined walls welcome visitors to the temporary exhibition hall of the Dutch Mauritshuis gallery, home to what is arguably Vermeers most famous painting, Girl with a Pearl Earring. Virtual reality (VR) glasses are available for visitors to use at various stations around the space, while in the next room are replicas of the Benin Bronzes that were looted from Nigeria by European colonizers. In front of them, on a kind of pedestal, the sculpted head of a horse stands out. It is the only thing that remains of the original chariot on the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, destroyed in World War II. In the background hang two paintings. They are part of the loot stolen by French revolutionary troops during the invasion of the Netherlands in the 18th century. The exhibition, entitled Roofkunst - 10 verhalen [Loot  10 stories], has been presented in collaboration with the Berlin Humboldt Forum, and blends art and technology to stimulate a debate on the restitution of stolen pieces. It focuses on 10 stories from three periods: the colonial era, the French Revolution and the Nazi looting. Along the way, the visitor is invited to imagine the museum of the future with the help of digital media.

Once museum goers have gotten over the unusual aesthetic of the exhibition space, the first virtual experience begins. Wearing the VR glasses and keeping one hand on a real railing, visitors have a breathtaking view. They are standing next to the chariot on top of the Brandenburg Gate, the famous 18th century neoclassical monument that is on the must-see list of every visitor to Berlin. Hence the railing, in case they are overcome by vertigo. Below, Napoleons troops enter on horseback in a triumphal procession on a gray October morning. The chariot was taken to France in 1806 as a war trophy and returned to Berlin after Napoleons defeat less than a decade later. When the Nazis came to power, the gate went from being a Prussian triumphal arch to a symbol of Hitlers dictatorship. Only the horses head survived the Allied bombings in World War II, and it was kept in the Stadtmuseum in Berlin. The chariot atop the monument today is a reproduction of the original and was installed in 1958. Taking off the VR glasses, the enormous, green horses head, green and enormous, seems more real than ever.

We had to go from what remains of the original to the replica to create the virtual experience, which transports the public to historical moments like this, explains Kel ONeill, guest curator. He has directed the creative aspect of the exhibition together with his partner, Eline Jongsma, and adds: We wanted to take the visitor out of the museum environment to see the objects in their historical context and think about where the artifacts now on display in the museum might be in the future. We live in an increasingly digital space, and we were interested in the idea of a museum where art that has been returned to its owners exists in an equally digital form, says Jongsma. We are not saying that in the future art galleries should combine real pieces and copies or replicas. We wonder about the value of an original, which will not lose its luster even if there are other ways of representing it, she continues.

Silver tableware stolen from Jews by the Nazis now exhibited in the exhibition 'Loot - 10 Stories' at the Mauritshuis museum in The Hague (Netherlands). Robin van Lonkhuijsen (EFE)

In an exhibition dedicated to stolen art, context is essential, but so is international collaboration. It is necessary inside and outside Europe because the objects have passed through many places, says Martine Gosselink, director of the Mauritshuis. As an example, she talks about a cane from Suriname, which is on display for the first time, and is in the Ethnologische [Ethnological] Museums collection in Berlin. It belonged to the Maroon community, descended from African slaves who escaped from plantations during the Dutch colonial period. It is loot, and it is a cross-border story, says the director. Jongsma and ONeill have made a documentary that shows the effect of this type of robbery on the collective memory of its owners. How will the descendants know that the cane is in Berlin? Visibility plays a role, says Jongsma.

Most looted art ended up in European museums in the 19th and 20th centuries, and the answer to how and to whom to return has not always been simple. In some cases, however, the entire route of the artwork can be traced. It happened with a self-portrait by Rembrandt, dated 1669. Protected by glass, it is resting on the exhibitions floor. It is not for lack of respect for the Dutch Master. It is just that this story also includes virtual reality support, and visitors have to sit down for it. In 1940, the canvas was owned by the German Jewish Rathenau family. They had to flee to the Netherlands and then to the United Kingdom and the United States, and they could not recover the painting. Stolen by the Nazis for a future Fuhrer Museum that was never created, the Nazis set out to destroy all their stolen art. With the 3D glasses on, the scene takes place inside a salt mine in Altaussee, Austria. Filled with paintings and valuable objects, Rembrandts painting is near a half-open door. Outside, the brave miners who managed to remove the bombs planted by the Nazis and save the art treasures are speaking. The allied group of art experts called the Monuments Men recovered much of what was looted, and this painting was returned to the Rathenaus. In 1947, they sold it to the Mauritshuis.

Casts of the Benin Bronzes, religious and royal sculptures from Benin (modern Nigeria) are displayed in the exhibition 'Loot - 10 stories' in the Mauritshuis museum in The Hague, the Netherlands. Visitors are taken through ten stories about looted art from three periods. The exhibition runs from September 14 to January 7, 2024. Robin van Lonkhuijsen (EFE)

In the case of the Benin Bronzes, the Dutch gallery presents replicas and their molds. They are among my favorites because when they arrived in the collection, in Germany, we made molds and produced copies soon afterward. With their return to Nigeria in 2022, the reproductions open yet another debate about value in the context of the market. For example, if the rights to reproduce the works are also returned, says ONeill. It seems to him that the original bronze will not lose its value even if there are other ways of representing it. How many Dutch people know that there are almost a hundred paintings in Paris, stolen by the French in the 18th century? It is a question that the director of the Mauritshuis has asked herself in public, and there are two works here that illustrate it. This is a canvas by the Dutch painter Paulus Potter, Cows Reflected in Water (1648), and another by Jan Mijtens, The Marriage of Friedrich Wilhem, Elector of Brandenburg and Louise Henriette of Orange (1646). They were taken by the French in 1794 when they invaded the Netherlands. Much of the collection of William V, who fled to England, was declared the property of France and around 200 works ended up in the Louvre Museum. After Napoleons defeat at Waterloo in 1815, it was not possible to recover about 70 pieces of art. Mijtens painting remained in France and has been loaned especially for the exhibition.

Why has it not been reclaimed? The response of the Mauritshuis is clear: because it was plundered, but it is no longer perceived as an injustice. Instead, they serve as ambassadors of Dutch art; because the Netherlands has enough masterpieces in its collections; and because there is no humiliation, exploitation, or racism involved. Robbing from a vulnerable community is not the same as doing it as a state, and the idea of the exhibition is not to compare it. With this exhibition, the gallery has taken a risk by offering something new, and we think it is good that from a privileged position in a privileged country, it [the gallery] participates in an ongoing debate, Jongsma and ONeill say in unison. In addition to the Humboldt Forum, the Stadtmuseum, Ethnologisches Museum, and the Museum fur Asiatische Kunst (the Museum of Asian Art), all in Berlin, have participated in the exhibition. The exhibition opens in Berlin in 2024.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Traumatic experiences stemming from Kuki-Meitei bloody clashDeath anxiety among displaced inmates in burning Sanaleibak-Kangleipak

|

Chakpram Purnima Devi (UGCs Junior Research Fellow Independent)

Contd from previous issue

In a study conducted in Manipur in 2002 on the significant differences in death anxiety among 365 subjects, with 177 of them from Imphal (a Disturbed area under AFSPA, 1958) and 188 respondents from Pune (a peaceful area), it was found that students from Imphal scored higher on death anxiety than those of Pune.[136]

A study conducted to identify whether long-term habituation to insecure stressful environments, such as chronic civil war, would ever time decrease death anxiety levels in a population, measuring in 7 samples of Kuwaiti college undergraduates from 1988 to 2002, covering the interval both before and after the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait using the Templers Death Anxiety Scale (DAS). The findings indicated significant increases in death anxiety scores for three testings following the Iraqi invasion  a time characterized by increased violence and the loss of human rights, and again following liberation from Iraqis, a time characterized by transition.[137]

A significant correlation between death anxiety and suicidal tendency was found, in which the higher the death anxiety level, the greater the suicidal risk was.[138]

Study also found a lingering fear of death to be linked to individuals experiencing traumatic encounters with death[139] and the fear of death was positively related to the loss of significant others.[140]

One study showed that people terminally ill with cancer tended to have significantly higher death anxiety scores than orthopedically ill patients.[141] HIV victims were also found to manifest significant correlations between death anxiety or depression and state-trait anxiety and clinical depression .[142]

On the other hand, some studies suggested that, on the whole, after having experienced near-death experiences, people tended to become less fearful of death.[143] A study reported that 41% of survivors of life-threatening accidents or illnesses claimed that their fear of death had reduced since the accident or illness.[144] Studies also indicated that patients with terminal cancer had lower death anxiety scores than those who did not have cancer.[145-146] People who had experienced a life-threatening cardiac arrest were found to lose much of their fear of dying immediately after the event, as opposed to those who did not have such a near-death experience.[147] A study also reported that among 49 people who had near-death experiences, 80% claimed that their fear of death had decreased or vanished entirely, as opposed to 29% of a control sample of non-near-death experience participants.[148]

Although there seems to be some mixed results on the correlation between traumatic experiences and death anxiety, several studies revealed a significant relationship between death anxiety and psychological stress. Death despair, death loneliness, death dread, death sadness, death depression, and death finality were correlated positively with death anxiety general depression, and general anxiety.[149]

What are the possible Anxiety Disorders among Displaced Inmates?

Some of the anxiety disorders that are likely to affect psycho-physical aspects of individuals who were experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event(s) involving actual or threatened death or serious injury to self or others are cited as under:

Separation Anxiety: Separation anxiety is the normal fear or apprehension of infants when separated from their mothers or other major attachment figures, or when approached by strangers usually most clearly evident between 6 and 10 months of age, or in later life.[3]

Though separation anxiety disorder is the most common type of anxiety disorder in children, it affects males and females equally and it is more common among people who have experienced a traumatic event. Study reported that about 75% of children with separation anxiety refused to attend school.

Separation Anxiety Disorder: This is a mental disorder (a psychological syndrome associated with distress, impairment, etc.) with onset before age 18 years, characterized by excessive separation anxiety relating to separation from home or from major attachment figures. Symptoms (to satisfy the diagnostic criteria) must persist for at least 4 weeks and must cause clinically significant distress or social, academic, or occupational problems. The symptoms may include: refusal to attend school, refusal to sleep alone, repeated nightmares about separation, unrealistic fear of losing major attachment figures, and complaints of somatic symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, or vomiting when separation is threatened.[3]

Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is one of the most common childhood anxiety disorders. It involves significant distress when the child is unexpectedly separated from home or a close attachment figure (e.g., parents, brothers, sisters, grandparents, peer group, etc.).[150] It may be mentioned that according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental disorders (DSM-IV Edition), separation anxiety disorders were limited to the diagnosis of SAD to children and adolescents; however, in the DSM-V Edition, the diagnosis was extended to include adults first diagnosed with SAD in adulthood .[150] One difference in diagnosis between children and adults was: in the case of children, the attachment figures are usually adults, such as parents, whereas adults experience anxiety due to actual or anticipated separation from children, spouses, or romantic partners.[151]


One-sided reports vis-a-vis Manipur crisis

|

No doubt, disarmament is the first step towards containing the violence which has been raging across the state since the beginning of May. It was the infamous Churachandpur rally of May 3 which ignited the vicious cycle of violence where many armed hoodlums and combatants armed with assault rifles attacked unsuspecting Meitei villages and burnt down thousands of houses. The unsuspecting Meitei villagers had to flee for their lives as the marauding mob ransacked, looted and burnt down their houses. The Meiteis fled for their lives, not because they were cowards but they had no weapons to defend themselves from the war-mongering mob who were armed with assault rifles. It was surprising as well as shocking that neither the state security forces nor any central security force thought it imperative to intervene when the war-mongering mob including armed hoodlums and combatants marched all the way from Churachandpur to Torbung to attack Meitei villages. Armed hoodlums and assault rifles-wielding combatants were marching openly hand in hand with other participants of the rally which was ironically christened peace rally. But no security agency thought it necessary to thwart the rally or at least prevent the march from moving outside Churachandpur. This was perhaps the biggest failure of the state in the contemporary history of Manipur. Had the state (both Imphal and New Delhi) and its security agencies acted in time and of course with a sense of responsibility, the violent crisis which has inflicted heavy casualties and untold misery to all the people, including those who are neutral to the conflict could have been avoided. The terror unleashed upon the Meitei people at Churachandpur, Moreh, Kangpokpi and other Kuki dominated areas evoked fierce retaliation in Imphal, and this retaliation was given prime coverage by majority of the (national) media, portraying the victims as aggressors and vice versa. The infamous Churachandpur rally is indeed a tragedy for all peace loving people but the greater tragedy is the national medias failure to question presence of armed hoodlums and assault rifles-wielding combatants in the so called tribal solidarity or peace rally.

Apart from their failure to raise this very important question, majority of the (national) media were only peddling false narratives fed by a particular party. First it was portrayed as a conflict between tribals and non-tribals. Then it was portrayed as a clash between Christians and Hindus. In support of their half-baked or incomplete reports, the list and details of churches burnt down or vandalised in the course of the violence were given ample coverage but again, many of the national media outlets either intentionally or unintentionally overlooked and blacked out the many temples burnt down and desecrated by the other party. How many of the reporters who came from outside Manipur and reported the crisis knew that every Meitei house also serves as a temple. It would do well for the non-local reporters to keep in mind that there is a sacred spot or shrine in every Meitei house which implies that a temple is defiled when any Meitei house is vandalised or burnt down. Unfortunately, the false narrative that it was a religious conflict held sway over a huge number of people both inside and outside India, including the European Parliament during the initial phase of the violence though it crumbled later following emergence of counter narratives. It is true that one group of people looted weapons from the state armoury but it was after the aggressors burnt down thousands of Meitei houses. Had the state and its security agencies protected the unarmed civilians from the heavily armed aggressors, no one might have thought of looting weapons from the state armoury because they would have no need for weapons. Looting of weapons from the state armoury is another ubiquitous aspect of the volumes of reports published by many (national) media outlets but again, they have not till date raised any question on the source(s) of the huge number of sophisticated weapons and the endless supply of ammunition being used by the aggressors. Identifying the source(s) of these weapons and ammunition is crucial in any sincere attempt to understand the Manipur crisis.


The Google sign is shown over an entrance to the company's new building in New York on Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023.

The U.S. Justice Department pressed ahead with its antitrust case against Google Wednesday, questioning a former employee of the search engine giant about deals he helped negotiate with phone companies in the 2000s.

Chris Barton, who worked for Google from 2004 to 2011, testified that he made it a priority to negotiate for Google to be the default search engine on mobile devices. In exchange, phone service providers or manufacturers were offered a share of revenue generated when users clicked on ads.

In the biggest antitrust case in a quarter century, the government is arguing that Google has rigged the market in its favor by locking in its search engine as the one users see first on their devices, shutting out competition and smothering innovation.

Google counters that it dominates the internet search market because its product is better than the competition. Even when it holds the default spot on smartphones and other devices, it argues, users can switch to rival search engines with a couple of clicks.

And Barton testified that Google wasnt the only search engine seeking default status with phone companies.

In a 2011 email exchange, Google executives noted that AT&T chose Yahoo and Verizon went with Microsofts Bing as its search engine.

I faced a challenge because mobile carriers became fixed on revenue share percentage, Barton said Wednesday. To counter the competition, he tried to persuade potential partners that Googles high-quality searches would generate more clicks  and therefore more advertising revenue  even if the carriers were paid a nominally lower percentage.

Google has emerged as the dominant player in internet searches, accounting for about 90% of the market. The Justice Department filed its antitrust lawsuit against the company nearly three years ago during the Trump administration, alleging Google has used its internet search dominance to gain an unfair advantage against competitors.

The trial, which began Tuesday, is expected to last 10 weeks.

U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta likely wont issue a ruling until early next year. If he decides Google broke the law, another trial will decide what steps should be taken to rein in the Mountain View, California-based company.

Top executives at Google and its corporate parent Alphabet Inc., as well as those from other powerful technology companies are expected to testify. Among them is likely to be Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai, who succeeded Google co-founder Larry Page four years ago. Court documents also suggest that Eddy Cue, a high ranking Apple executive, might be called to the stand.

On Wednesday, the Justice Department also questioned Google chief economist Hal Varian for a second day about the way the company uses the massive amounts of data generated by user clicks to improve future searches and entrench its advantage over rivals.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
So Abhishek Banerjee did not attend the first meeting of the INDIA alliances coordination committee in Delhi. Instead he headed to the Enforcement Directorates office in Kolkata where he was summoned for questioning in an educational recruitment irregularities case.

He left his residence around 11:12 and reached the EDs seventh floor office at about 11:34 and the questioning started around 12:10, continuing well past 7 in the evening (and is still continuing at the time of going to press). According to Trinamul, the date of September 13 was hardly a coincidence. Sources in Trinamul feel that the All India Trinamul Congress general secretary was prevented from attending the first coordination committee meeting because of political vendetta unleashed on its political rivals by the Centre using its agencies.

Alleging that Didis nephew and the Number Two in the grassroots party is being targeted as part of a conspiracy, a section of the INDIA alliances coordination committee partners decided to keep a seat empty in protest. There were twelve parties present during the meeting. Trinamul was supposed to be the thirteenth party.

Advertisement

However, the BJP has shot back saying that the EDs investigation is going on as per law and the date of September 13 was decided on because of an order issued by the Kolkata High Court asking the ED to submit proof that the investigation is being carried out with due diligence by September 14. In the order Amrita Singh of the Kolkata High Court had also asked why not everyone whose names had come up during investigation had been questioned yet.

The name of the Trinamul all India general secretary and member of Parliament had reportedly come up in connection with a company called Leaps and Bounds, which, owned by Banerjee came up during investigation into the educational recruitment irregularities .

Political commentators feel that Abhisheks decision to choose to go for questioning as per the ED notice even at the cost of not being able to attend the INDIA Alliances first coordination committee meeting could earn a certain degree and respect and sympathy.

His prioritizing the ED notice could be seen as the reflection of a responsible and law abiding leader and that is important as the state heads to Parliamentary elections, he said. An empty seat was kept for TMC Dalai Lama will visit Sikkim soon Deputy Secretary to state governm
An incident unfolded at Mumbai airport runway on Thursday evening at 5:02 pm when an aircraft, carrying eight individuals, met with an accident during its landing attempt amidst heavy rain. The private aircraft, bearing eight passengers, including the pilot and co-pilot, suffered a runway mishap, resulting in injuries to all on board.

Following the incident, all eight passengers were promptly admitted to Criticare Asia Hospital, located in Mumbais Andheri East. The aircraft involved in the incident was identified as the VSR Ventures Learjet 45, with flight registration VT-DBL.

It had been en route from Vizag (Visakhapatnam) to Mumbai when it veered off the runway during the landing procedure.

Advertisement

Preliminary reports suggest that the Mumbai Fire Brigade received the first report of this incident. Weather conditions at the time of landing were challenging, with visibility limited to 700 meters due to the heavy rain.

Its worth noting that the aircraft belonged to Dilip Buildcon, an infrastructure development company based in Bhopal.

As a consequence of this accident, operations at Mumbai airport, one of the nations busiest airports, were significantly disrupted.

The airport has been temporarily closed for operations and is currently undergoing inspection and assessment.

This incident underscores the importance of safety protocols and the swift response of emergency services in times of crisis. As investigations into the accident continue, the aviation community awaits more details on the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.
BJP national president JP Nadda on Tuesday joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi in giving the proper response to Udhayanidhi Stalins Sanatana Dharma remarks and launched a coordinated attack against the Oppositions INDIA bloc over the issue. Taking to Twitter (now renamed X), Nadda accused the INDIA alliance of bashing Sanatana Dharma and bullying the media.

These days, the I. N. D. I. Alliance is ONLY doing 2 things: BASHING SANATANA SANSKRITI  each party is competing to outdo the other in hurling the choicest abuses towards Sanatana Sanskriti. BULLYING THE MEDIA- filing FIRs, threatening individual journalists, making lists in true Nazi style of who to target, the BJP chief said.

Nadda was referring to DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalins recent remarks equating Sanatana Dharma with dengue and malaria and calling for its eradication.

Advertisement

Speaking at a conference organised by the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers Artists Association in Chennai, Udhayanidhi said, Few things cannot be opposed, they should be eradicated. We cant oppose dengue, mosquitoes, malaria or corona, we have to eradicate them. In the same way, we have to eradicate Sanatana (Sanatan Dharma), rather than opposing it.

His second charge referred to the INDIA blocs coordination committee meeting on Wednesday where they decided to boycott some media houses and news anchor. Also, Karnataka Congress governments FIR against a private news channel and its anchor prompted Naddas bullying the media allegation against the INDIA alliance.

Attack in coordination with PM Modi

With G20 Summit now over, the BJP has launched a fresh attack on the Opposition over the Sanatana Dharma controversy. Ever since the G20 summit ended, there has not been a single rally addressed in poll bounds states by BJP heavyweights in which the issue of Sanatana Dharma is not raised. From Rajnath Singh to Amit Shah and JP Nadda to PM Modi, all of them have cornered the Opposition over the Sanatana dharma row.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also launched a scathing attack against the INDIA alliance and said that the Opposition wants to finish Indias centuries old culture.

The ghamandiya alliance has resolved to finish the Sanatana culture and traditions that inspired Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. It was the strength of Sanatana that the Rani of Jhansi, Lakshmibai, could challenge the British and say that she would not give up her Jhansi, PM Modi said in a rally in poll bound Madhya Pradesh.
Massive candlelight marches were held on Thursday across the Kashmir Valley, including the Line of Control (LOC), to pay homage to Kokernag martyrs.

A candlelight march was also held by people in South Kashmir that had witnessed the encounter.

In a solemn and heartfelt tribute to the bravehearts who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty at Kokernag (Anantnag) on Wednesday, citizens from all walks of life came together for the march at various locations of the Kupwara district in North Kashmir.

Advertisement

The candlelight marches were show of solidarity for the valiant soldiers and an expression of profound gratitude for their unwavering commitment to the nation in various locations of Kupwara, Handwara, Lolab and Karnah subdivisions.

The marchers proceeded through towns and villages attracting a large and diverse crowd of people.

The atmosphere was sombre and the silence was profound as the participants, holding flickering candles, walked in unison, paying their respect to the fallen heroes. Many held placards with messages of condolences, patriotism, and appreciation for the Indian Army and the J&K Police.

This collective display of grief and unity transcended all boundaries, as people from various backgrounds, religions, and age groups participated, underscoring the nations unwavering support for its armed forces.

The candlelight marches in Karnah sub-division culminated right at LOC in Teetwal where community leaders, veterans and representatives of the civil society addressed the gathering. They spoke eloquently about the bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers.

It also highlighted the resilience and spirit of unity that defines our nation. Civil society members in South Kashmirs Kulgam also held a candlelight march in memory of the supreme sacrifice of Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of 19 RR, Major Aashish Dhonchak, DySP J&K Police Humayun Bhat in the encounter at Gadole area of Kokernag in Anantnag district.

Candles were lit at the main market, clock tower, Kulgam, by people as a tribute to the martyrs and to express condolences and solidarity with bereaved families.

The march witnessed massive participation of people holding candles to remember the sacrifices of these bravehearts in line of duty and condemned the terror act unequivocally.
As the sad news of Col. Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles (RR), being killed in a gunfight with terrorists in Anantnag came in today, a mist of gloom descended across New Chandigarh and Panchkula.

Many remember that the brave officer had earlier been honoured with the Sena Medal for valour. That was as recently as 2021 when he was serving as a Lieutenant Colonel with the RR.

Then also he had confronted and crushed militants in Jammu and Kashmir who had started firing randomly. The 19 RR is the same battalion that took out terrorist Burhan Wani in 2016.

Advertisement

According to media reports, his brother-in-law Virender Gill spoke to him on the morning of September 13 when Col Manpreet told him that he was busy and that he would speak to him later. Sadly, that never happened as Virender received the news of his brother-in-laws death.

The officers family was currently staying in a DLF enclave in the township, and he was originally from the Bharaunjian hamlet near New Chandigarh in the Mohali district. Mother, wife Jagmeet Grewal, and their two childrena daughter who is six years old and a son who is tworemain behind for Col. Manpreet Singh.

Jagmeet is a teacher of economics who works for the Haryana government and is assigned to the Panchkula region. She used to frequently visit her parents, who reside in Sector 26 of Panchkula, according to family friends.

Col. Manpreet Singh sustained serious gunshot wounds while commanding his soldiers from the front. The RR and the police had joined forces to conduct an operation in response to specific intelligence regarding the Garol forests in the Anantnag area.

They remembered that Col. Manpreet Singh was a second-generation soldier because his later father had served in the Army as a non-commissioned officer as a steady stream of mourners, well-wishers, and family members streamed in. They remembered him as a sociable individual who was cordial with everyone and devoted to his line of work.

According to army sources, Col. Manpreet Singh served with the same RR battalion for approximately five years, the first three as the second-in-command and the last two as the Commanding Officer. He had served for roughly 17 years in the infantrys Sikh Light Infantry after being commissioned.
At 6:45 am martyred Colonel Manpreet Singh spoke to his brother-in-law Virender Gill. There was nothing unusual in the way he spoke except he was too busy. Col Manpreet told his brother-in-law, that he would call later. Gill didnt realise that this would be the last he would get to speak to his brave brother-in-law.

This decorated officer was the commanding officer (CO) of 19 Rashtriya Rifles battalion and led the joint operation of the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir police against the Pakistani terrorists hiding in dense Kokernag forests.

His mother Manjit Kaur says, Col Manpreet was in love with the army uniform. This third-generation army officer  the seventh in his family  joined the military against the wishes of his father and gave up what would have been a lucrative career as a Chartered Accountant (CA) for olive green. Manjit Kaur says, He used to get hold of his fathers army shirts, find buttons, and get them altered so that he could wear them.

Advertisement

Manjit remembers, Colonel Manpreet Singhs father used to tell him not to join the army but he was adamant. So I told his father to let him serve the nation.

A sincere and studious student during school and college days, Colonel Manpreet Singh, whose tenure was about to end in four months, was a topper from the beginning and loved books. The army officers younger brother Sandeep Singh said that the last conversation the two of them had about six days back, Col Manpreet had asked Sandeep to find a shop for binding old books so that they could be preserved for a long time.

His grittiness can be gauged from the fact that as a college student, he used to cycle from his village Bharonjian near Mullanpur in the Mohali (adjoining Chandigarh) to his college in Sector 32 in Chandigarh (about 32 kilometres to and fro).

Colonel Manpreet Singh was supposed to come on leave next month to attend his sons birthday. He is survived by his mother, wife Jagmeet Grewal, and two children  a six-year-old son and a two-year-old daughter. His wife, Jagmeet Grewal, works as a lecturer in the Haryana education department.
With G20 Summit now over, the BJP has launched a fresh attack on the Opposition over the Sanatana Dharma controversy with Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself leading the saffron partys charge. Speaking at a rally in Madhya Pradeshs Bina, PM Modi on Thursday accused the Oppositions INDIA alliance of trying to finish Sanatana Dharma.

The ghamandiya alliance has resolved to finish the Sanatana culture and traditions that inspired Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. It was the strength of Sanatana that the Rani of Jhansi, Lakshmibai, could challenge the British and say that she would not give up her Jhansi, PM Modi said.

This was the first public reaction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the controversy over DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalins remarks equating Sanatana Dharma with malaria, dengue, corona and calling for its complete eradication.

Advertisement

What did Udhayanidhi Stalin say?

Earlier this month, speaking at a conference organised by the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers Artists Association in Chennai, Udhayanidhi said, Few things cannot be opposed, they should be eradicated. We cant oppose dengue, mosquitoes, malaria or corona, we have to eradicate them. In the same way, we have to eradicate Sanatana (Sanatan Dharma), rather than opposing it.

The BJP was quick to react and accused the DMK leader of calling for the genocide of 80 per cent of Indias population that follows Sanatana Dharma. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reacted to the remark and reportedly told his council of ministers to give proper response to Udhaynidhis remark.

However, in view of the G20 Summit, the BJP shifted its focus from national politics to international relations and started highlighting the achievements of the event. Now that the G20 Summit is over, the Sanatana Dharma issue has once again resurfaced in most of BJPs election campaigns.

The proper response

Ever since the G20 summit ended, there has not been a single rally addressed by BJP heavyweights in poll bounds states where the issue of Sanatana Dharma is not raised. From Rajnath Singh to Amit Shah and JP Nadda to PM Modi, all of them have cornered the Opposition over the Sanatana Dharma row.

Taking to Twitter (now renamed X), BJP national president JP Nadda today said that the INDIA alliance is doing only two things  bashing Sanatana culture and bullying the media.

These days, the I. N. D. I Alliance is ONLY doing 2 things: BASHING SANATANA SANSKRITI  each party is competing to outdo the other in hurling the choicest abuses towards Sanatana Sanskriti. BULLYING THE MEDIA- filing FIRs, threatening individual journalists, making lists in true Nazi style of who to target, Nadda said.
Two soldiers were injured in a gunfight with terrorists on Thursday evening when the Army intensified its operation against the terrorists who killed three security forces personnel in South Kashmirs Kokernag.

The Kashmir Zone Police said in the morning that two LET terrorists, including Uzair Khan, have been encircled.

The security forces, including Army and local police, are being provided support by helicopters, quadcopters and drones to keep eye on the entire area.

Advertisement

The Chinar Corps Commander Lt General Rajiv Ghai and Rashtriya Rifles Victor Force commander Major General Balbir Singh visited the encounter site to boost the morale of troops in operations.

Search operation, which was put on hold for night, resumed in the thick foliage forest area of Gadol and the terrorists have been encircled, police said Thursday.

Colonel Manpreet Singh, who was the commanding officer of 19 RR, Major Ashish Dhonchak and DSP Humayun Bhat, the son of former DIG Kashmir Ghulam Muhammad Bhat, were killed during the initial exchange of fire.

Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha along with Chinar Corps Commander, Chief Secretary, Security Advisor to LG, DGP J&K and other officers laid wreaths to pay homage to the bravehearts, Colonel Manpreet Singh and Major Ashish Dhonchak who made the supreme sacrifice in the highest traditions of the Indian Army.

The mortal remains of the martyrs would be laid to rest with full military honours at their respective hometowns, said a defence spokesman.
In a major political development in Rajasthan ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections later this year, Congress leader Jyoti Mirdha joined the BJP earlier this week. Her Mirdha family is a well-known political family in Rajasthan and known for its long association with the Congress.

The political journey of the Mirdha family started even before Indias Independence. Jyoti Mirdhas grandfather, Nathu Ram Mirdha, was a freedom fighter and was first elected as a member of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly from Nagaurs Merta City in 1952.

Nathu Ram began his political journey under the aegis of Baldev Ram Mirdha. There are two active Mirdha clans in Nagaur: one descended from Baldev Ram Mirdha and the other from Nathu Ram Mirdha. Nathu Ram had two sons: Bhanu Prakash Mirdha and Ram Prakash Mirdha. Jyoti is the daughter of Ram Prakash Mirdha.

Advertisement

Although the Mirdha clan has had a decade-long association with the Congress, Jyoti Mirdha was no stranger to the BJP even before she actually joined the party. In fact, her mother-in-law, Krishna Gehlawat, is a well-known BJP leader. Gehlawat, who was earlier associated with the Congress, had joined the BJP in 2014.

When Mirdha joined the BJP, the Congress said that she had anyway not been involved in the partys day-to-day affairs for the past 4.5 years. The Congress partys reaction was as if they already knew and did not seem to care much. The other Mirdha clan (Baldev) is still with the Congress. It has been so since elections started taking place in the country.

Still, Mirdhas switch to the saffron party could boost the political fortunes of the BJP in Jaat-dominated Nagaur. Although the Jaats comprise 10-12 per cent of total Rajasthan voters, they do have a say in the government formation for they are the deciding factor in more than 50 constituencie, including the Nagaur region.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Jyoti Mirdha was the Congress partys candidate against RLP chief Hanuman Beniwal, another prominent Jaat leader. Beniwal was supported by the BJP and defeated Mirdha.

I know my strength in Nagaur. In 2019, some equations went against me and I lost. Not the case this time, she told reporters after joining the BJP.

Reason behind Jyotis switch to BJP  a secret understanding between CM gehlot and Hanuman Beniwal

Jyoti cited a secret understanding between Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Hanuman Beniwal as her reason for quitting. She said that she was being ignored and the works of her supporters were not being done in the Gehlot government. Instead, she said, RLP workers would easily get their works done. The state government has become too generous on RLP chief Hanuman Beniwal, she said.

When an RLP worker is prioritized over a visible Congress worker, it tells whom the government is helping, she told a Hindi daily.

There are rumors in Rajasthans political circles that Hanuman Beniwal, once a staunch critic of Ashok Gehlot, has developed some kind of understanding with the chief minister. Beniwal denied this when asked if he would ally with the Congress.

When Rajasthan Cabinet Minister Govind Singh Dotasara was asked about rumors of Hanuman Beniwal joining forces with the Congress, he left the door open for his party, the RLP. If Beniwal joins the INDIA alliance, he can, Dotasara said.

The BJP is hoping Jyoti Mirdhas inclusion will help in consolidating its Jaat vote bank ahead of the Assembly elections. However, if the equation (BJP+Beniwal) that defeated Mirdha in 2019 turns in Congress plus Beniwal in 2023-24, the BJP may not gain more than a popular Jaat face.
Elon Musk, CEO of X, the company formerly known as Twitter, laughs while speaking to the media after attending a closed-door gathering of leading tech CEOs to discuss the priorities and risks surrounding artificial intelligence and how it should be regulated, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023.

Senators heard from prominent technology executives and others in private Wednesday on how to accomplish the potentially impossible task of passing bipartisan legislation within the next year that encourages the rapid development of artificial intelligence and mitigates its biggest risks.

The closed-door forum on Capitol Hill convened by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer included almost two dozen tech executives, tech advocates, civil rights groups and labor leaders. The guest list featured some of the industrys biggest names: Metas Mark Zuckerberg and X and Teslas Elon Musk as well as former Microsoft CEO Bill Gates. All 100 senators were invited; the public was not.

Schumer, D-N.Y., said more than 60 senators attended and that there was some broad consensus in building a foundation for bipartisan AI policy. When he asked everyone in the room if government should have a role in regulating AI, every single person raised their hands, even though they had diverse views, he said.

Schumer, who was leading the forum with Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., will not necessarily take the tech executives advice as he works with colleagues to try and ensure some oversight of the burgeoning sector. But he is hoping they will give senators some realistic direction for meaningful regulation of the tech industry.

Tech leaders outlined their views, with each participant getting three minutes to speak on a topic of their choosing.

Musk and former Google CEO Eric Schmidt raised existential risks posed by AI, Zuckerberg brought up the question of closed vs. open source AI models and IBM CEO Arvind Krishna expressed opposition to the licensing approach favored by other companies, according to a person in attendance who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the rules of the closed-door forum.

Schumer said one of the issues discussed was whether there should be a new agency to regulate AI.

It was a very civilized discussion among some of the smartest people in the world, Musk told reporters after leaving the meeting. He said there is clearly some strong consensus.

Some senators were critical of the private meeting, arguing that tech executives should testify in public.

Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., said he would not attend what he said was a giant cocktail party for big tech. Hawley has introduced legislation with Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., to require tech companies to seek licenses for high-risk AI systems.

I dont know why we would invite all the biggest monopolists in the world to come and give Congress tips on how to help them make more money and then close it to the public, Hawley said.

Congress has a lackluster track record when it comes to regulating technology, and the industry has grown mostly unchecked by government in the past several decades.

Many lawmakers point to the failure to pass any legislation surrounding social media, such as for stricter privacy standards.

We dont want to do what we did with social media, which is let the techies figure it out, and well fix it later, Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Mark Warner, D-Va., said about the AI push.

Schumer said regulation of artificial intelligence will be one of the most difficult issues we can ever take on, and he listed some of the reasons why: Its technically complicated, it keeps changing and it has such a wide, broad effect across the whole world, he said.

But his bipartisan working group  Rounds and Sens. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., and Todd Young, R-Ind.  is hoping the rapid growth of artificial intelligence will create more urgency.

Rounds said before the forum that Congress needs to get ahead of fast-moving AI by making sure it continues to develop on the positive side while also taking care of potential issues surrounding data transparency and privacy.

AI is not going away, and it can do some really good things or it can be a real challenge, Rounds said.

Sparked by the release of ChatGPT less than a year ago, businesses across many sectors have been clamoring to apply new generative AI tools that can compose human-like passages of text, program computer code and create novel images, audio and video. The hype over such tools has accelerated worries over its potential societal harms and prompted calls for more transparency in how the data behind the new products is collected and used.

Some concrete proposals have already been introduced, including legislation by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., that would require disclaimers for AI-generated election ads with deceptive imagery and sounds. Hawley and Blumenthals broader approach would create a government oversight authority with the power to audit certain AI systems for harms before granting a license.

In the United States, major tech companies have expressed support for AI regulations, though they dont necessarily agree on what that means. Microsoft has endorsed a licensing approach, for instance, while IBM prefers rules that govern the deployment of specific risky uses of AI rather than the technology itself.

I think its important that government plays a role, both on the innovation side and building the right safeguards, and I thought it was a productive discussion, Google CEO Sundar Pichai said after leaving the forum.

Many members of Congress agree that legislation is needed, but there is little consensus.

I am involved in this process in large measure to ensure that we act, but we dont act more boldly or over-broadly than the circumstances require, Young said. We should be skeptical of government, which is why I think its important that you got Republicans at the table.

Some of those invited to Capitol Hill, including Musk and Sam Altman, CEO of ChatGPT-maker OpenAI, have signaled more dire concerns evoking popular science fiction about the possibility of humanity losing control to advanced AI systems if the right safeguards are not in place.

But for many lawmakers and the people they represent, AIs effects on employment and navigating a flood of AI-generated misinformation are more immediate worries.

Rounds said he would like to see the empowerment of new medical technologies that could save lives and allow medical professionals to access more data. That topic is very personal to me, Rounds said, after his wife died of cancer two years ago.

Some Republicans have been wary of following the path of the European Union, which signed off in June on the worlds first set of comprehensive rules for artificial intelligence. The EUs AI Act will govern any product or service that uses an AI system and classify them according to four levels of risk, from minimal to unacceptable.

A group of European corporations has called on EU leaders to rethink the rules, arguing that it could make it harder for companies in the 27-nation bloc to compete with rivals overseas in the use of generative AI.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda, on Thursday, launched a fresh attack on the Opposition bloc I.N.D.I.A accusing it of bashing Sanatan culture and bullying the media.

He also asked the Opposition to immediately stop their antics and focus on serving people.

These days, the I. N. D. I Alliance is only doing two things  bashing Sanatana Sanskriti and bullying the media. Each party is competing to outdo the other in hurling the choicest abuses towards Sanatana Sanskriti. Filing FIRs, threatening individual journalists, making lists, in true Nazi style of who to target, he wrote on X.

Advertisement

He was referring to recent remarks made by DMK leaders against Sanatan Dharma and the move of the Opposition to decide on the names of the anchors on whose shows none of the parties will send their representatives.

He said, The Emergency era mindset is alive among these parties.I. N. D. I Alliance should stop their antics immediately. They should instead focus on constructive work and serving people. Else, the path to obscurity will get even clearer.

Taking a swipe at the Congress, Nadda said, The history of Congress has many instances of bullying the media and silencing those with differing views.

Pandit (Jawaharlal) Nehru curtailed free speech and arrested those who criticised him. Indira (Gandhi) Ji remains the Gold Medal winner of how to do it- called for committed judiciary, committed bureaucracy and imposed the horrific Emergency.

Rajiv (Gandhi) Ji tried to bring the media under state control but failed miserably. Sonia (Gandhi ) Ji-led UPA (United Progressive Alliance) was banning social media handles simply because the Congress did not like their views, he

said.

Notably, the statement of the BJP chief comes in the wake of Congress-led government in Karnataka filing an FIR against a television news channel anchor, Sudhir Chaudhary for allegedly promoting enmity between groups in his show.
A pall of gloom descended on the native places of Sena Medal-awardee Col Manpreet Singh and Major Aashish Dhonchak of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, who made the supreme sacrifice while protecting the nation from the terrorists in Anantnag on Wednesday.

While Col Manpreet Singh belongs to Mohali in Punjab, Major Dhonchak is from Panipat in Haryana.

We last spoke to him (Col Manpreet Singh) at 6.45 a.m. and later got a call at around 3 p.m. that he has been injured. He was a great man. Last year, he was awarded Sena Medal for his duty. I salute him, Colonel Manpreet Singhs brother told the media.

Advertisement

His family, comprising mother, wife Jagmeet Grewal and two children  a daughter, aged six, and a son, aged two, resides near New Chandigarh in Mohali district..

Col Manpreet Singhs wife Jagmeet is an economics teacher with the Haryana government and is posted in Panchkula district.

Col Manpreet Singh was leading his troops from the front when he received critical gunshot wounds.

Planning to visit the family on his birthday next month, Major Dhonchak joined the India Army in 2013 and was the lone brother of three sisters. Hes survived by his wife Jyoti and three-year-old daughter Vamika.

Lal Chand, his father, along with the family, had shifted to a rented accommodation in Sector 7, Panipat, after he retired from National Fertilizers Ltd.

Major Dhonchaks grandfather told the media that he was an intelligent man and scarified his life for the country.

Everyone in the village will wait for the arrival of his mortal remains, he said with teary eyes.

Punjab Police salutes our martyr Col. Manpreet Singh & Maj. Ashish Dhonchak of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, and DSP Humayun Bhat of J&K Police who lost their lives during a fierce gunfight with terrorists in #Anantnag, #JammuKashmir, Punjab Police said in a post on X.

The nation will remain indebted to them for their supreme sacrifice. Our fighters have always fought for safeguarding the unity & integrity of India, both in the Armed Forces & the Police, it added.
The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) has suggested ten recommendations to the Government of India, aimed at expediting the National Green Hydrogen Mission, a groundbreaking initiative with an allocated budget of Rs 19,744 crores.

These PHDCCI recommendations, have been unveiled on the sidelines of 3rd International Climate Summit being held in New Delhi from September 14to 15 at Vigyan Bhavan. The recommendations are significant as they emerge during a crucial moment in Indias concerted efforts to wholeheartedly adopt more environmentally friendly and sustainable energy alternatives.

Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15, 2021, the National Hydrogen Energy Mission aims to make India energy independent and achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070. With an initial outlay of Rs. 19,744 crore allocated for Strategic Interventions, Pilot Projects, and Research & Development, India sees it as a crucial step toward sustainable development and a source of investment opportunities for the youth.

Advertisement

Speaking about the recommendations, PHDCCI President Mr. Saket Dalmia said, The National Green Hydrogens objectives, coupled with these recommendations, hold the promise of not only reducing carbon emissions but also stimulating economic growth and innovation.

Former President Ram Nath Kovind, who was the chief guest at the 3rd ICS summit, also emphasized on the need to take swift actions to tackle climate change.

When India took over the presidency of G20 it gave the slogan Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam which means that the world is one family. Our planet is facing unpleasant climatic conditions. We must act collectively and swiftly for this and take mindful and constructive actions, Kovind said.

Below are the 10 Recommendations by PHDCCI

1. Inclusion in Harmonized List of Infrastructure: Advocate for the recognition of green hydrogen and green ammonia in the Harmonized List of Infrastructure.

2. Zero GST for Green Hydrogen/Ammonia: Propose a zero Goods and Services Tax (GST) rate for green hydrogen and green ammonia to foster growth in the hydrogen ecosystem.

3. Nil Basic Customs Duty for Electrolysers and Equipment: Suggest waiving basic customs duties on imported electrolyzers and related equipment necessary for green hydrogen production, transportation, and storage, extending this benefit until 2030.

4. Extension of Tax Benefits (Section 115BAB): Recommend the extension of tax benefits under Section 115BAB for green hydrogen/green ammonia production and electrolyzer manufacturing until December 31, 2030.

5. Recognition of Green Hydrogen Derivatives: Advocate for the inclusion of green hydrogen derivatives such as methanol and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the list of activities eligible for trading of carbon credits.

6. Amendment in SEZ Rules: Suggest amendments to Special Economic Zone (SEZ) rules to facilitate green hydrogen and green ammonia production, reducing industry costs and enhancing global competitiveness.

7. Relaxation in SEZ Rules for RE Plants: Propose relaxed SEZ rules to support renewable energy plants supplying power to green hydrogen or green ammonia units.

8. Facilitation for Project Development and Exports: Recommend speedy land allocation, relaxed auction processes, payment in annuity installments, and infrastructure development for shared use in green hydrogen projects.

9. Withdrawal of Additional Charges for Power Sale: Encourage the withdrawal of additional charges for selling power from solar projects in specific states, promoting renewable energy project development for green hydrogen production.

10. Capacity Building and Testing Facilities: Suggest the establishment of a Center of Excellence (COE) for hydrogen to provide training and capacity building, along with testing benches for electrolysers and storage tanks, aligning with international standards.
The Pushkar Singh Dhami Government will reach out to prospective investors from global destinations, London, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore and Taiwan, to meet its Rs 2.5 lakh crore target of MoUs for Uttarakhand at the Global Investors Summit 2023.

The Global Investors Summit 2023 is scheduled to be held in December. The state government claimed that it had received Rs 7,600 crore investment offers at the curtain raiser function in Delhi on Thursday.

Addressing the first interactive session with corporate representatives at the CII-organised curtain raiser event in Delhi, Dhami informed that his government would hold a series of roadshows between September 25 and October 20 in London, Singapore, Dubai and Abu Dhabi to woo investors for the Uttarakhand Global Investor Summit.

Advertisement

According to Dhami, the first international roadshow will be held in London from September 25 to 28, 2023. This will be followed by roadshows in Singapore and Taiwan in the first week of October. The roadshows in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will be held between October 16 and 20.

Besides the roadshows abroad, the state government plans to organise seven roadshows in Delhi, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad.

Speaking to The Statesman, Dhami said, The response from the corporate world is quite encouraging. We have already recieved Rs 7,600 crore worth MoUs from ITC Hotels, Mahindra Holidays and Resorts India Limited and e-kuber. While an ITC offer of Rs 5,000 investment MoUs will be signed soon, Rs 2,600 crore investment pacts from Mahindra Holidays and e-Kuber have been done. The MoUs of this scale in the first interactive event is very encouraging.

Mahindra Holidays and Resorts India Limited will set up 45 resorts at different places in Uttarakhand with an investment of Rs 1,000 crore. This is the largest investment by Mahindra Holidays in anywhere in India, informed Dhami.

The Dhami Governments key focus areas to attract investments will be tourism, MSME, startups, education, health and wellness, logistics, horticulture and other environment-friendly sectors for setting up private industrial establishments.

Dhami stressed that his government was determined to make Uttarakhand the fastest-growing economy in the country. A Strong Uttarakhand Mission was launched to double the SGDP of the state in the next five years. Uttarakhand Investors Summit is part of this larger plan.

Announcing his governments plan to repeal 1,200 redundant laws that hinder investment in the Himalayan state, the chief minister informed that about 500 of such Acts are being repealed through a single repeal Act. A land bank of about 6,000 acres is created in the state for setting up industries in various sectors, he added.

He said there had been a continuous improvement in rail, road and air connectivity in the state of Uttarakhand.
As the 60th anniversary of President John F. Kennedys assassination approaches, an unexpected twist has emerged from an interview with Paul Landis, a former Secret Service agent who was a first-hand witness to the fateful events of 22 November 1963. Landis, now 88, has cast doubt on the Warren Commissions single-bullet theory, prompting renewed speculation and debate around one of the most enduring mysteries in American history. In the recent interview, Landiss recollection diverges from his written statements shortly after the assassination. He now questions the official narrative that a single bullet struck Kennedy from behind, exiting through his throat, before continuing to hit then Texas governor John Connally in the back, thigh, chest and wrist.

The bullet, a shred of crucial evidence supporting the theory that Lee Harvey Oswald was JFKs sole assassin, had been famously found on a stretcher believed to have held Connally at Parkland Memorial Hospital. Landiss revelation is significant for several reasons. First, his proximity to Kennedy during the motorcade in Dallas grants him a unique perspective on the events. Standing on a running board just feet away from the President when he was shot, Landiss account holds weight as an eyewitness testimony. Secondly, his change of heart challenges the conventional wisdom held for decades. The Warren Commissions conclusion that Oswald acted alone in assassinating JFK had been controversial since its inception. Landiss scepticism about the single-bullet theory could breathe new life into the theories and conspiracies that have persisted over the years.

One crucial detail from Landiss interview is his claim that he found a bullet lodged in the limousine seat behind where Kennedy was sitting. To save it from souvenir-hunters, he picked it up and placed it next to Kennedy on a stretcher. Landiss decision underscores the gravity of the situation at the time. He recognised the bullet as a crucial piece of evidence and didnt want it to disappear or be lost. This revelation raises questions about how such a critical piece of evidence ended up on Connallys stretcher.

Advertisement

The timing of Landiss statement is also noteworthy. It comes after the Biden Administration ordered the release of over 16,000 documents related to Kennedys assassination. These documents were made public in response to repeated demand. Over 70 per cent Americans supported the release, according to a 2022 poll. Landiss interview now adds another layer to the discussions around these documents and their potential to shed new light on the assassination. Landiss upcoming book, The Final Witness: A Kennedy Secret Service Agent Breaks His Silence After 60 Years, scheduled for release on October 10, is expected to provide further insight into his perspective on the events of that tragic day. Readers and historians will undoubtedly scrutinise his account for additional revelations or details that could reshape our understanding of the assassination.
India pulled off a spectacular success at the just concluded New Delhi G20 Summit. An extremely well-organised event attended by the top world leaders with a right touch of colour and eclat, the Indian diplomatic team had a challenging if, at times, despairing ~ task to achieve consensus on the summit document when many of the participants were not even on talking terms.

Achieving universal praise from world leaders for its organisation, its ambitious agenda and its skilful straddling of these divides is testimony to the countrys organisational capabilities, negotiating savvy, and the countrys and the Prime Ministers international prestige. The fateful nature of this summit with serious implications for the G20s future, the parlous state of the global economy and overall stability is reflected in the Leaders Declaration itself whose negotiations tested the risk-taking capability of the Indian side in bringing it to fruitful conclusion.

Upgraded to the national leadership level at the height of the 2008 global financial and economic crisis from that of the finance ministers and central bank governors of the 20 major economies after the Southeast Asian economic crisis (1997-98), this global economic coordination mechanism is beset with a widening economic divide between countries and aggravated great power tensions even as the pace of technology and global warming defy solutions except through collective global effort.

Advertisement

To achieve the Bharat imprint on its evolutionary journey is certainly an impressive result. Created to achieve global macro-economic stability, the G20s record on this score has been mixed since all its decisions have to be fleshed out by official multilateral organisations comprising much larger memberships.

The cascading challenges and crises, mentioned in the Declaration, have only worsened with the G7 leaders decision to bring the Ukraine conflict front- and-centre to the G20 process threatening to derail it just when the UN secretary-general has been warning about a dysfunctional UN system; the Bali Summit only made it worse.

Both at Bali and at New Delhi, leaders were forced to recognise that geopolitical and security issues ~ hence their resolution at such forums ~ can have significant consequences for the global economy; this is a departure from the G20s earlier summits. G7 leaders injection of this dimension can paralyse this process when circumstances change in the future ~ as they would inevitably, given the current geopolitical volatility.

The Indian negotiators ~ and the leadership ~ had to begin with the Bali formulation on Ukraine and find common language whilst retaining its substance. As the Indian Sherpa noted, a take-it-or-leave-it stance was taken on the final draft to force the participants to countenance the prospect of the Summits failure. A bold decision was to not invite the Ukrainian President to address the Summit.

Because of the recognition of Indian prestige across the geopolitical divide, the Prime Ministers personal rapport with most leaders, and the mobilisation of the key Global South leaders, namely the past presidency (Indonesia), and the next two (Brazil and South Africa), the final draft was accepted by all participants and instantaneously adopted at the Prime Ministers initiative; this allowed all sides to claim victory on the Ukraine issue which was set in a much wider geopolitical context of the deleterious effects of conflicts in general. G7 countries also realised that most developing countries have been taking a more ambivalent position on the Ukraine conflict despite their voting record in the UN General Assembly.

Concerned about its economic fallout in their respective countries, they are far more invested in the G20s continuation as they can influence its decisions on the vital issue of sustainable economic growth and stability. A significant expansion of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) at its Johannesburg Summit (August, 2023) with more countries applying for membership of this Non-West organisation was a signal to the G7 that an excessive focus on the political and security aspects of the Ukrainian crisis was counter-productive.

That its geopolitical heft is inadequate to create a post-Cold War global political and economic order was indeed recognised by them at the launch of the G20 forum at the finance ministers level in 1999. The Declaration encompasses critical macro-economic issues of equity, sustainability, wider socio-economic progress, climate crisis, reformed multilateralism, international taxation, womens empowerment and terrorism and money-laundering advancing an ambitious common programme for the radically altered circumstances in the 21st-century to work for the objective of One Earth, One Family, One Future.

A number of working groups had worked hard on these thorny issues where Indian achievements in digital infrastructure, financial inclusion, public health, renewable energy, lifestyle for sustainable developments et cetera were showcased for the wider world, both the developing and the developed.

The Prime Minister has suggested a virtual summit before the end of the Indian presidency in November, 2023, so that timebound commitments can be passed on to the incoming Brazilian presidency. These can be shaped further as India will continue to be part of the G20 Troika comprising the outgoing, the incumbent, and the incoming presidencies. Global ~ and, planetary ~ challenges remain daunting with shrinking time-horizons which are affecting global stability and social fragility.

State fragility or collapse, as currently evident, diminishes governance capabilities which in turn become challenge-multipliers. Due to the Indian initiative to give this process mass character, involving the developing countries extensively, many of these ideas do not even require adoption by the official multilateral institutions but can be propagated through experiencesharing and capacity-building in bilateral and plurilateral frameworks.

For several years already, the G20 process has been buffeted by geopolitical tensions as much as any other multilateral organisation. As it articulates more vigorously the voice of the Global South, the G7 is also consolidating whilst the absence of Russian and Chinese Presidents at the New Delhi Summit suggests a perception among decisionmakers in these countries that the G20 is getting increasingly dominated by the West.

They are concentrating their efforts to develop the Non-West multilateral organisations. These widening geopolitical fault-lines do not bode too well for the health of G20s future. The post-Cold War history demonstrates that alternative, competing organisations to the existing UN system are not their effective replacement. The West is also exploring further options in multilateral diplomacy such as the joint IBSA-US statement on the sidelines of the New Delhi Summit, to build on the historic progress of Indias G20 presidency. Both Russia and China are absent in the IBSA organisation which comprises India, Brazil and South Africa.

The Prime Ministers approach to strengthen the existing UN system by making it more responsive to the challenges of the 21st century is thoughtful. This is important lest it also becomes a relic of the past leaving our troubled, volatile world and its challenges without a global governance mechanism.

(The writer is a former ambassador and his book Geopolitics in the Era of Globalisation was published by Routledge in 2021)
The Supreme Court, on Thursday, reserved orders on a plea seeking curbs on the illegal manufacture and sale of banned firecrackers as it (the court) had told the Delhi Police instead of picking on small retailers and those bursting firecrackers, it should target the sources of such firecrackers.

As a bench of Justice A S Bopanna and Justice M M Sundresh reserved the order, the bench was told by the firecracker manufacturers that worldwide there was no ban in using Barium in the chemical composition of the firecrackers.

The bench was told that on October 23, 2018, when the top court banned the use of Barium as an oxidizer in firecrackers, there was no scientific study to back its stated harmful effects. The ban in 2018 was for the time being and not in perpetuity.

Advertisement

Barium is used in crackers to produce the colour green in fireworks. It also acts as a stabilizing agent to give firecrackers a longer shelf-life. Besides Barium,

Potassium Nitrate, Aluminium chips and powder

Senior advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for firecracker manufacturers, told the bench, Barium Nitrate is used the world over and there is no alternate. No country has banned Barium Nitrate including the USA which has banned some salts from being used.

Divan said that the Barium is being used in the green firecrackers produced by the CSIR-NEERI with a 30 per cent reduced emission level. Divan referred to September 12, 2017, October 23, 2018, March 5, 2019, and December 6, 2019, top court orders to drive home his point.

Divan said the Barium Nitrate is used in the green crackers with reduced emission levels.

He said that there was no ban on the use of Barium by September 12, 2017.

The arguments advanced by Divan were broadly backed and complimented by other advocates who appeared for manufacturers opposing the ban, its adverse effects on the industry and the employment of those engaged in the industry.

However, senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan appearing for the petitioner Arjun Gopal  minor  said that a small firecracker with Barium emits 65,000 particulate matter and even if emission is reduced by 25-30%, still the amount of emission will be huge. He said though there was a ban on the firecrackers in the national capital they are being sold under the nose of authorities.

Responding to the bench yesterday (Wednesday) asking the Delhi Police to explain why despite the ban, the firecrackers are being sold, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati gave the details of the arrangements that are made by police to check the sale and bursting of firecrackers. She apprised the court of the cases instituted by the Delhi police.

Responding to a query from the bench as to why despite ban, the firecrackers were being sold in the national capital, Bhati said that the temporary licences are issued three days before Diwali. ASG Bhati said that Delhi Police has not issued any permanent licence on the firecrackers since 2016.

Justice Bopanna observed, Permanent or temporary, it is for you, the effect is the same. If there is a ban, you have to adhere to it. There is a ban as of today, you have to adhere to it irrespective of green cracker or otherwise.

As a lawyer questioned CSIR-NEERI on some counts, the bench said that they could act as a superior authority over CSIR and NEERI and observed that one has to trust primary institutions.
Jaahnavi Kandula, an Andhra Pradesh native, was enrolled at the Northeastern University campus in South Lake Union to pursue a masters degree. She was scheduled to graduate in December and had travelled to the US from Bengaluru in 2021 as part of a student exchange programme.

According to Seattle Times, Kandula was the child of a single mother who worked as an elementary school teacher. Kandulas mother reportedly took debt so that she could go to the United States and get her Masters degree.

According to Kandulas uncle, she put her familys needs first.

Advertisement

Jaahnavi Kandula, a graduate student at Northeastern University, was killed on January 23 in Seattle when Kevin Daves patrol cruiser struck her. She was 23 years old. According to accounts, Dave struck Kandula near the intersection of Dexter Avenue North and Thomas Street while travelling at 74 mph (119 kmph) in response to a complaint of an overdose. Her body was allegedly tossed more than 30 metres (100 feet) away.

The student was brought to Harborview Medical Centre right after, however, according to sources, she passed away from her injuries there.

The Seattle Police Department released video from accused officer Daniel Auderers body camera on Monday, and it has audio of him laughing and joking about the incident, sparking a huge uproar.

According to the video recording, Auderer, the vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, was on the phone with Mike Solan, the guilds president, when the tragedy occurred. He said, She is dead, and then he laughed numerous times.

The policeman can be heard stating, Yeah, just write a cheque. Eleven thousand dollars. She was 26 anywayShe had limited value.

In the midst of the controversy, India on Wednesday called for a thorough investigation into the incident. The treatment of Ms. Jaahnavi Kandulas death in a car accident in Seattle in January has been the subject of several reports, including those in the media. We have forcefully raised the issue with senior officials in Washington DC, Seattle, and Washington State in order to have a complete investigation and take appropriate action against those responsible for this unfortunate situation. The Indian Consulate General in San Francisco posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, that The Consulate & Embassy will Continue to Closely Follow Up on This Matter With All Concerned Authorities.
The Consulate General of India in San Francisco has taken cognizance of the viral video in which a US cop is heard laughing over the death of an Indian student, who was hit by a speeding police van in Seattle. Terming the incident deeply troubling, the Indian Consulate has raised the issue with authorities in Washington as well as local administration in Seattle and demanded action against the accused policeman.

Recent reports, including in media of the handling of Ms Jaahnavi Kandulas death in a road accident in Seattle in January are deeply troubling. We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle & Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington DC for a thorough investigation & action against those involved in this tragic case. The Consulate & Embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all concerned authorities, the Indian mission wrote on Twitter (now renamed X).

In a shocking case of apathy, a US cop is heard mocking the death of an Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula in a road accident in Seattle, US. The victim identified as 23-year-old Jaahnavi Kandula was hit by a police van while crossing the road in January this year. The van was being driven by a policeman named Kevin Dave.

Advertisement

However, the incident came to light only this week after a purported body-cam video of the cop was flagged by a police department investigator. The video believed to be shot from the cops body camera was recorded just after the incident.

In the video, Seattle Police Officers Guild Vice President Daniel Auderer is heard laughing and saying that the girl was of a limited value.

Shortly after saying shes dead, Auderer laughs and says its a regular person, referring to Kandula. He then says just write a check  $11,000, she was 26 anyway, she had limited value.

Auderer also mentions that Dave was going 50 (miles an hour), stating how thats not out of control for a trained driver. According to reports, the officer was driving at 74 miles per hour.
The Himachal Pradesh government has decided to establish Himachal Pradesh Rajya Chayan Aayog to conduct examinations for the recruitment of various Group-C posts under the state government, PSUs, Boards, Corporations, Local Bodies in place of disbanded Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission (HPSSC) Hamirpur.

The HPSSC was disbanded by the state government in February this year, after detecting irregularities in the recruitment process of Class III and IV posts.

The decision was taken in the state Cabinet meeting held here on Thursday under the Chairmanship of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

Advertisement

In order to check the illegal mining activities, the cabinet decided to fill up 12 posts of Mining Inspector, 24 posts of Assistant Mining Inspector, and 38 posts of Mining Guard in the industries department.

The Cabinet also approved Mukhyamantri Laghu Dukandar Kalyan Yojna- 2023 and decided to allocate Rs. 40 crore under the scheme. This scheme will provide better opportunities for availing loans to small entrepreneurs and skill-based workers like cobblers, tailors, barbers, mobile repairing vendors, vegetable and fruit vendors, etc. for their business.

It decided to bring the Himachal Pradesh Land Revenue (Amendment) Bill, 2023 in the upcoming Monsoon session of HP Vidhan Sabha to address the issue of delayed decisions of Revenue Court cases and to streamline the various revenue operations like partitions, corrections, mutations, appeals and demarcations to facilitate the public.

To settle pending assessment cases and arrears that were under litigation or were yet to be assessed under GST, the cabinet decided to roll out the third phase of the Himachal Pradesh Sadhbhawana Legacy Cases Resolution Scheme, 2023 from 1 October 2023 to 31 December 2023.

The cabinet approved the establishment of a Single Energy Trading Desk for coordinating trading strategies and transactions of power in respect of HPSEBL, HPPCL and Directorate of Energy with effect from financial year 2024-25 for optimization of revenues.

It also gave its nod to amend Swaran Jayanti Energy Policy, 2021 in order to manage the shortfall of energy during the lean period due to climatic, topographic and other associated reasons.

The new provisions will encourage the installation of rooftop-based solar projects and contribute to power generation.

It decided to increase the honorarium for SMC teachers by Rs. 2000 per month from 1 April 2023, which will benefit 2115 individuals.

Furthermore, it was also decided to enhance the honorarium of part-time water carriers working in the Education Department from Rs. 3900 to Rs. 4,400 per month with effect from 1st April 2023, benefitting 283 individuals.

The Cabinet decided to fill up 1,226 posts of Constable in the Police Department which include 877 male constables, 292 female constables and 57 constable drivers to strengthen the department.

To provide specialized medical services to people of the state, the cabinet decided to create and fill up 8 posts of Associate and Assistant Professors in various departments of Dr. Radhakrishanan Government Medical College, Hamirpur and one post of Assistant Professor in IGMC Shimla.
Educational exposure of ideas, assumptions or hypotheses, based on proven facts" (which need not be strictly current affairs) Value in judgments are excluded, and the text comes close to an opinion article, without judging or making forecasts , just formulating hypotheses, giving motivated explanations and bringing together a variety of data

Dawn in London with the financial district in the background, on August 9. amer ghazzal (Alamy /Cordon Press)

From high-level policy debates and political manifestos to everyday news coverage, anxiety about economic growth is everywhere. In Germany, the governments latest budget identifies stronger growth as a top priority. In India, national leaders are eager to reclaim their countrys place as the worlds fastest-growing economy. In China, where the prospect of deflation looms, the government is undoubtedly worried about hitting its 5% growth target for the year.

In the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer, the leader of the opposition Labour Party, has vowed to secure the highest sustained growth in the G7 if given power, and the ruling Conservatives express similar ambitions (recall former prime minister Liz Trusss now-infamous mantra: growth, growth, and growth).

But putting growth at the center of economic policymaking is a mistake. While important, growth in the abstract is not a coherent goal or mission. Before committing to particular targets (be it GDP growth, overall output, and so forth), governments should focus on the economys direction. After all, what good is a high growth rate if achieving it requires poor working conditions or an expanding fossil-fuel industry?

More information Todays pressing issue of education on sustainable development

Moreover, governments have been most successful in catalyzing growth when they have been pursuing other goals  not treating growth itself as the objective. NASAs mission to land a man on the Moon (and bring him back) yielded innovations in aerospace, materials, electronics, nutrition, and software that would later add significant economic and commercial value. But NASA didnt set out to create these technologies for that reason, and it probably never would have developed them at all if its mission had been simply to boost output.

Similarly, the internet emerged from the need to get satellites to communicate with one another. Owing to its widespread adoption, digital GDP has been growing 2.5 times faster than physical GDP for the past decade, and now the digital economy is on track to be worth an estimated $20.8 trillion by 2025. Again, such growth figures are the result of active engagement with the opportunities that digitalization presents; growth itself was not the goal.

Rather than focusing on accelerating digital GDP growth, governments should instead aim to close the digital divide and ensure that current and future growth is not based on Big Techs abuse of market power. Given how rapidly artificial intelligence is advancing, we urgently need governments that can shape the next technological revolution in the publics interest.

More broadly, pushing growth in a more inclusive direction means departing from the financialization of economic activity and recommitting to investment in the real economy. As matters stand, far too many non-financial companies (including manufacturers) are spending more on share buybacks and dividend payouts than on human capital, machinery, and research and development. While such activities can boost firms stock price in the short term, they reduce the resources available for reinvesting in workers, widening the divide between those who control capital and those who do not.

Financialization is more often than not about value extraction and short-term profit maximization, rather than value creation for the sake of society as a whole. To achieve inclusive growth, we must recognize that workers are the real value creators, and their interests should feature prominently in discussions about income and wealth distribution.

In this sense, the U.K. Labour Partys new stance on workers rights is worrying. In a knee-jerk attempt to appeal to corporate leaders and counter claims that it is anti-business, Labour has softened its previously stated commitment to stronger protections for gig workers. Yet investment-led growth and workers rights should not be regarded as competing priorities. Balancing corporate engagement with a commitment to workers is not only essential to achieving inclusive growth; it has already been proven to boost productivity and growth over the long term.

The economy will not grow in a socially desirable direction on its own. As I stressed 10 years ago, the state has an important entrepreneurial role to play. After governments recent attempts to kick-start their economies following the pandemic, it is clear that we still need new thinking about how to achieve growth that is not only smart, but also green and inclusive.

Governments need economic-policy roadmaps with clear goals, based on what matters most to people and the planet. Public support for businesses should be made conditional on new investments that will build forward better toward a greener, more inclusive real economy. Consider the United States CHIPS and Science Act, which aims to boost the domestic semiconductor industry. The law prohibits funds from being used for share buybacks, and one could easily imagine additional provisions requiring that future profits be reinvested in workforce training.

But to help steer growth in the right direction, governments also must make goal-oriented investments in their own capabilities, tools, and institutions. The outsourcing of core capacities has undermined their ability to respond to changing needs and demands, ultimately reducing their potential to create purposeful growth and public value over time. Worse, as the public sectors capabilities and expertise have been hollowed out, it has become more susceptible to capture by vested interests.

Only with the right capacities and competencies can governments successfully mobilize resources and coordinate efforts with businesses that are willing to work toward shared goals. A mission-oriented industrial strategy requires the public and private sectors to work together symbiotically. Done right, such an approach can maximize long-term public benefits and stakeholder value: innovation-led growth becomes synonymous with inclusive growth.

The question we should be asking is not how much growth we can achieve, but what kind. To achieve greater economic output that is also inclusive and sustainable, governments will need to embrace their potential to be value creators and powerful forces shaping the economy. Reorienting public organizations around ambitious missions  instead of obsessing over narrow growth targets  will allow us to tackle the grand challenges of the 21st century and ensure that the economy grows in the right direction.

Mariana Mazzucato, Founding Director of the UCL Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, is Chair of the World Health Organizations Council on the Economics of Health for All. A tenth anniversary edition of her book The Entrepreneurial State: Debunking Public vs. Private Sector Myths (Anthem Press, 2013) will be published by Penguin in September.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Slamming Elon Musk for calling Taiwan an integral part of China, the Taiwan foreign minister has asserted that Taiwan is not for sale.

Musk, the owner of the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), as well as the Tesla (TSLA.O) electric car company and Starlink satellite network has stated that Taiwan is an integral part of China. His remarks at the All-In Summit in Los Angeles were recorded and posted to YouTube this week.

Their (Beijings) policy has been to reunite Taiwan with China. From their standpoint, maybe it is analogous to Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China mostly because  the US Pacific Fleet has stopped any sort of reunification effort by force, Musk said.

Advertisement

Responding to this, Taiwans Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, posted on X on Wednesday night, Hope @elonmusk can also ask the #CCP to open @X to its people. Perhaps he thinks banning it is a good policy, like turning off @Starlink to thwart #Ukraines counterstrike against #Russia. Listen up, #Taiwan is not part of the #PRC & certainly not for sale! JW.

Taiwan has been claimed by the Peoples Republic of China as its territory.

However, Taiwans government claims that because the Peoples Republic of China has never ruled the island, it has no authority to claim sovereignty over it, speak for it, or represent it on the global stage, and that only the people of Taiwan can decide their future.

Taiwan was formally recognised by just 13 countries: Belize, Guatemala, Haiti, Paraguay, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau, Tuvalu, Eswatini, and the Vatican City.

However, after Tsai Ing-wen became Taiwans president in 2016, nine countries shifted allegiances to China, and Beijing has amplified its diplomatic efforts to isolate Taiwan. Taiwans government claims that it is a sovereign country with the right to state-to-state ties
A police oversight agency in Seattle has initiated an investigation into remarks made by a leader of the Seattle Police Department (SPD) union concerning the tragic death of Jaahnavi Kandula, a young Indian woman. She lost her life in an incident involving a police cruiser linked to the union leader.

Furthermore, Indias ambassador to the United States has urged swift action in response to a video showing a Seattle police officer displaying inappropriate behavior following the tragic death of the 23-year-old Indian student due to a speeding police patrol car. The Biden administration has acknowledged the matter and has assured the Indian government of a prompt investigation into the incident.

Previously, the Consulate General of India in San Francisco expressed deep concern over the video, characterizing it as deeply troubling. The Consulate has taken the matter up with authorities both in Seattle and Washington, D.C.

Advertisement

Jaahnavi arrived in Seattle from Bengaluru, India, in 2021 to pursue a masters degree in Information Systems at the College of Engineering. She was on track to graduate this December.

What happened to Jaahnavi Kandula?

The tragic incident occurred at the intersection of Dexter Avenue North and Thomas Street, just moments after the police car had reached a high speed, as reported by Fox13 Seattle. She was rushed to Harborview Medical Center but, sadly, succumbed to her injuries.

According to an SPD report released in June, the patrol car, driven by Officer Kevin Dave, was traveling at a speed of 74 miles per hour (119 km per hour). The investigation identified the excessive speed of the vehicle as the primary cause of the collision, as reported by the Seattle Times.

The car began to brake less than a second before colliding with Ms. Kandula and was still traveling at approximately 63 miles per hour (101 km per hour) upon impact. The speed limit on the street where the tragic incident occurred was 25 miles per hour (40 km per hour).
Following their first face-to-face summit in four years, Russian President Vladimir Putin has accepted an invitation from Kim Jong Un to visit North Korea, Al Jazeera reported.

North Koreas Kim is in Russias Far East as Putin seeks to strengthen ties in the midst of Russias protracted conflict in Ukraine, in addition to advancing his nations military modernisation.

After more than four hours of discussions and a visit to the Vostochny Cosmodrome space centre, he extended the offer to Putin at a convenient time at a reception to mark the end of the day.

Advertisement

Putin accepted the invitation with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history and tradition of the Russia-DPRK friendship, Al Jazeera reported North Korean state news agency KCNA as saying on Thursday.

As a result of the talks in Russia, there is worry not only in the US but also internationally that Kim may be prepared to supply Moscow with weapons for its conflict in Ukraine in exchange for technology that would help him advance his military objectives.

In addition, the North Korean leader is anticipated to go to Vladivostok to see Russias Pacific fleet and stop by an aviation factory. The director of the nations weapons department, the defence minister, and the top military commander are all members of Kims entourage.

The two leaders also agreed to further strengthen strategic and tactical cooperation amid military threats, provocations and tyranny of imperialists, Al Jazeera reported citing KCNA.

While speaking to reporters, Putin lauded the strengthening of cooperation and friendship between our countries and informed them that he saw possibilities for military co-operation with North Korea. Involved in the negotiations was Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, who in July attended celebrations in Pyongyang honouring the armistice that put a stop to hostilities in the 19501953 Korean War on its 70th anniversary.

North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles just before Putin and Kims meeting, the most recent in a series of tests that violated UN sanctions that forbid such actions.

According to US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, it is troubling that Russia is considering working with North Korea on projects that may go against UN Security Council resolutions.

Yoko Kamikawa, Japans newly appointed foreign minister, issued a similar caution against violations of UN resolutions.

The resolutions, which were supported by Russia, prohibit the development of technologies that might be applied to North Koreas ballistic missile programmes.

Additionally, they forbid any technical and scientific collaboration with North Korea in the fields of nuclear science and engineering, aerospace and aeronautical engineering, or advanced manufacturing production processes, Al Jazeera reported.
The whos who of U.S. high technology was on Capitol Hill in Washington on Wednesday. For the first time, the great heavyweights of the sector  from Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Meta CEO (Facebook) Mark Zuckerberg to Alphabet (Google) leader Sundar Pichai and Microsoft founder Bill Gates  appeared as a group in the Senate. They were there to participate in a closed-door session on one of the hottest issues of the moment: the regulation of artificial intelligence. Its a goal that everyone agrees on. But there is disagreement on how to regulate the emerging technology, and to what extent to do so. One thing, however, does seem clear: the European model has few supporters.

Elon Musk upon his arrival at the Senate. JULIA NIKHINSON (REUTERS)

The fact that 20 tech executives  whose joint income statements exceed the GDP of some countries  responded to Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumers invitation points to the importance of the matter. Several of the tech titans have previously spoken out in favor of measures to control AI, a sector that is receiving a flood of investments and that has sparked great public interest since the launch of the ChatGPT chatbot less than a year ago.

After leaving the forum, Musk said it was important for us to have a regulator which you can think of as a referee. He called artificial intelligence a double-edged sword, and said that a regulator was needed to ensure that companies take actions that are safe and that are in the interests of the general public.

Zuckerberg, for his part, told the forum: I believe its better that the standard is set by American companies that can work with our government to shape these models on important issues.

Schumer is hoping to approve an AI law next year before the presidential elections in November. The goal is to prevent the technology from disrupting the 2024 vote. On the one hand, the law will encourage the rapid development of artificial intelligence and its benefits; and, on the other hand, curb the dangers posed by the sector before it becomes fully incorporated into daily life. Lawmakers want to contain the risks presented by AI, such as election interference, the spread of false news, and attacks on key infrastructures.

The idea is to avoid a repeat of what happened with other tech sectors, such as social media, which was allowed to expand without any regulation. Now that they have become commonplace tools among the population, they bring with them a whole series of problems  from the spread of fake news and harmful content to alleged mental health problems among teenagers and children. But placing restrictions on social media companies has proved difficult in the United States. There have been numerous attempts to pass bills that limit social media, but so far, all have come to nothing. This is partly due to pressure from powerful tech companies, and partly due to disagreements between lawmakers themselves.

On this occasion, it remains to be seen if the lawmakers will succeed. New Jersey Senator Cory Booker said that all participants agreed that the government has a regulatory role, but said that crafting legislation would be a challenge.

On the eve of the forum, Schumer told the AP news agency that AI regulation is one of the most difficult issues Congress can ever deal with. He listed some of the reasons why: its technically complicated, it keeps changing and it has such a wide, broad effect across the whole world, he said.

Today, we begin an enormous and complex and vital undertaking: building a foundation for bipartisan AI policy that Congress can pass, Schumer said as he opened the meeting. Congress must play a role, because without Congress we will neither maximize AIs benefits, nor minimize its risks.

Later, Schumer made it clear that he was not interested in following the example of the European Parliament, which in June approved sweeping legislation to regulate AI. It is now awaiting approval in the Council and consultations with the 27 member countries. If you go too fast, you can ruin things. The EU went too fast, he told reporters after the forum.

The EUs regulation on artificial intelligence  the first of its kind in the world  affects any product or service that uses AI tools. Each system is classified into one of four levels of risk, which range from minimal to unacceptable. Content needs to make clear when it contains material generated by artificial intelligence, and the rules also include safeguards against illicit content. But in an open letter, more than 160 business leaders argued that the bill endangers the EUs competitiveness and technological sovereignty.

Sam Altman, the founder of OpenAI, which created ChatGPT, was also present at the forum on Wednesday. It was the launch of the chatbot that sparked interest in the capabilities of AI, which until recently sounded like science fiction. These content generation systems can create images and sound, computer programs and text that are indistinguishable from human-made products. While these tools open up enormous possibilities, they have also raised fears about how they may be misused and whether they will impact jobs.

In March, Musk, business leaders, and AI experts had called for a six-month pause in the development of systems more powerful than Open AIs GPT-4, citing possible risks to society. In May, Altman warned Congress: My worst fear is that we, the technology industry, cause significant harm to the world. I think if this technology goes wrong, it can go quite wrong, he added.

That same month, 350 businessmen and experts in the sector warned that AI posed a risk of extinction for humanity. George Hinton, one of the fathers of the technology, left Google because he believed these programs could lead to the end of civilization in a matter of years. A report by the market analysis company Forrester estimates that artificial intelligence could replace 2.4 million jobs in the United States by 2030.

Senators will not necessarily accept all the suggestions made by the tech leaders at Wednesdays forum. But the participants hoped the meeting would lead to a better understanding in Congress of the realities of the sector, its risks and benefits, and what can be done to address them.

Some concrete proposals have already been presented, including a key project that would force, for example, election advertising to include warnings if it includes sound or images generated by AI that could lead to misunderstandings. Another initiative is the possible creation of a regulatory body that studies certain artificial intelligence systems before granting them an operating license.

In July, the White House proposed a series of voluntary commitments to artificial intelligence companies in a bid to ensure that the technology is not used for harmful purposes. One of the proposals is to include a seal or watermark in content generated by artificial intelligence, given the difficulty  or impossibility  of distinguishing between real and AI-made images and text. The White House also addressed artificial intelligence in an executive order.

On Tuesday, eight companies in the sector, including Adobe, IBM and Nvidia, announced they would adhere to the voluntary commitments requested by the White House.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
A woman steps through a door that is covered by a mural depicting American hostages and wrongful detainees who are being held abroad, July 20, 2022, in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington.

Iran on Tuesday identified the five prisoners it hopes to see freed in the United States in exchange for five Iranian-Americans now held in Tehran and billions in assets once held by South Korea.

The acknowledgment by the Iranian mission to the United Nations in New York comes as the Biden administration has issued a blanket waiver for international banks to transfer $6 billion in frozen Iranian money from South Korea to Qatar without fear of U.S. sanctions.

The moves by both Tehran and Washington appear to signal the prisoner swap is progressing as the money once held in South Korea is converted into euros and moved to Qatar, where Iran will be able to use it for humanitarian purposes.

In a statement to The Associated Press, Ali Karimi Magham, a spokesman for the Iranian mission, confirmed the list of prisoners that Tehran wants released.

The five sought by the Iranians are:

 Kaveh Lotfolah Afrasiabi, an Iranian charged in 2021 with allegedly failing to register as a foreign agent on Irans behalf while lobbying U.S. officials on issues like nuclear policy;

 Mehrdad Ansari, an Iranian sentenced to 63 months in prison in 2021 for obtaining equipment that could be used in missiles, electronic warfare, nuclear weapons and other military gear;

 Amin Hasanzadeh, an Iranian and permanent resident of the United States whom prosecutors charged in 2019 with allegedly stealing engineering plans from his employer to send to Iran;

 Reza Sarhangpour Kafrani, an Iranian charged in 2021 over allegedly unlawfully exporting laboratory equipment to Iran; and

 Kambiz Attar Kashani, an Iranian-American sentenced in February to 30 months in prison for purchasing sophisticated, top-tier U.S. electronic equipment and software through front companies in the United Arab Emirates.

The U.S. State Department declined to comment, citing the sensitivity of this ongoing process.

The news website Al-Monitor, relying on a statement from the Iranian mission, first reported the Iranians identities on Monday.

On the U.S. side, Washington seeks the release of Siamak Namazi, who was detained in Iran in 2015 and later sentenced to 10 years in prison on internationally criticized spying charges; Emad Sharghi, a venture capitalist sentenced to 10 years; and Morad Tahbaz, a British-American conservationist of Iranian descent who was arrested in 2018 and also received a 10-year sentence.

The fourth and fifth prisoners were not identified. All five are under house arrest at a hotel in Tehran.

U.S. Republicans have criticized the possibility of an exchange, which is under discussion amid heightened tensions between Iran and the West over its nuclear program, as well as a series of ship seizures and attacks attributed to Tehran.

The Pentagon is considering a plan to put U.S. troops on board commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all oil shipments pass moving out of the Persian Gulf.

A major deployment of U.S. sailors and Marines, alongside F-35s, F-16s and other military aircraft, is also underway in the region. Meanwhile, Iran supplies Russia with the bomb-carrying drones Moscow uses to target sites during its war in Ukraine.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Return-to-work policies are motivating one in every 10 (10.1 percent) homesellers to relocate, according to a new survey commissioned by Redfin.

While returning to the office wasnt the most common reason respondents listed for moving, the response rate is notable because back-to-office mandates are an emerging cause of relocation.

Thats according to a Redfin-commissioned survey conducted by Qualtrics in May and June. The survey was fielded to 5,079 U.S. residents. This report focuses on the 616 respondents who indicated theyre likely to sell a home and move in the next year.

In Boise, Idaho, Redfin Premier Agent Shauna Pendleton has a pair of clients who are selling their home after only about a year because their Seattle-based employer is requiring them to return to the office. They will likely have to sell at a loss since they bought when home prices were near their peak.

My sellers both work at the same company, which told them they have to be in the office three days a week or theyll lose their jobs. They have six months to make the move, Pendleton said. They'll probably have to take a $100,000 loss on their home. Their new house in Seattle wont be anything close to the size of their property in Boise, and their mortgage rate will be much higher.

With mortgage rates near the highest level in over two decades, there arent a ton of people selling their homes, meaning many of those who are selling are doing so because they dont have the luxury to wait. But the results of Redfins survey show movers today are still considering factors including climate change and social issues when deciding where to live.

Nearly one in five (19.3 percent) respondents with plans to sell their home in the next year said they want to relocate to live in a place better aligned with their views on social issues. A similar share cited lower taxes (19 percent) and concerns about safety/crime (17.9 percent).

Also notable: one in 10 (10.6 percent) respondents said theyre planning to move because theyve dealt with discrimination in their neighborhood. A similar share (8.4 percent) listed concerns about the impact of climate change on their neighborhood as a reason for relocation.

Real estate is all about priorities and compromise, Redfin Chief Economist Daryl Fairweather said. While a lot of homeowners are staying put, refusing to give up their rock-bottom mortgage rates, some are opting to trade their low rate for a safer neighborhood, lower taxes and/or neighbors with the same political views.

The desire for more space is the most common factor driving people to relocate, with one-third (33.8 percent) of respondents citing it as a reason for their move. Next came the desire to be closer to family (22.6 percent), followed by the desire for a lower cost of living (21.6 percent).

Many moving today want homes that are bigger and less expensive. While those two pursuits may seem contradictory, some house hunters are achieving both by moving somewhere thats more affordable. High mortgage rates are eating away some of the benefit of relocating to a less expensive place, with the average 30-year-fixed mortgage rate now at 7.12 percent.
TikTok, a social media platform based in China, is expected to continue operating in Mexico despite security concerns raised in the US.

The Mexican government has stated that there is no valid reason to ban the platform as it could be seen as a violation of freedom of speech.

(Also, did you know that you can Buy Cheap TikTok Followers ?)

(Click here to see the BEST PLACE to Buy TikTok Followers )

Is TikTok Banned in Mexico?

No, the TikTok app is not banned in Mexico. The Mexican politicians were talking about banning TikTok because the TikTok app promotes immoral content, but in the end they did not ban it.

During a morning conference, President Lopez Obrador announced that his government would not prohibit the use of the Chinese app by government officials. This decision contrasts with other western countries, such as the US, Canada, France, and the UK, who have banned government employees from using the app on their official devices due to concerns about potential spying activities that could benefit the Chinese government.

President Lopez Obrador stated that in Mexico, there are no restrictions on anything, including TikTok, and that freedom of thought and expression is guaranteed.

Lopez Obrador has commented on social media before. In November 2022, Elon Musk launched a 24-hour poll on Twitter. The poll resulted in the reinstatement of former US President Donald Trump on the platform. Lopez Obrador had criticized Twitter's decision to ban Trump. In late October 2022, as Musk took over Twitter, the Mexican leader urged him to repair the damage caused by Trump's account cancellation.

Shou Zi Chew, CEO of TikTok, recently faced questioning from members of the US House of Representatives. Concerns have been raised that the Chinese Communist Party could potentially access user data on TikTok, as it is owned by ByteDance, a major Asian technology company. The US government is currently urging ByteDance to sell its shares to a US-based company.

In Mexico, there are over 57 million active TikTok accounts. TikTok is the third most popular social media platform in the country, with 14.1% of users. Mexican politicians, especially those from the ruling party Morena, use TikTok extensively. For example, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Marcelo Ebrard has over 1 million followers. Similarly, Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum has over 870,000 followers, and former President of the Supreme Court Arturo Saldivar has more than 560,000 followers. These politicians use TikTok to reach younger audiences and share information about their responsibilities.

The Mexican government has decided not to ban TikTok, the popular video sharing social media application, despite the United States considering a possible prohibition due to security concerns.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador expressed his commitment to "complete freedom" when asked about the platform during his regular morning news conference, following the recent questioning of TikTok's chief executive by U.S. lawmakers.

Certain U.S. lawmakers are urging the government to consider a ban on the app. They claim that it has the potential for extensive data collection, content censorship, and negative impacts on children's mental health.

The Chinese foreign ministry stated that the United States has not provided any evidence to support the claim that TikTok poses a threat to national security.

Last month, Canada announced a ban on the app from government-issued devices, citing concerns about privacy and security.

Security concerns about the TikTok app linked to the Chinese Government

Several other countries and entities have also chosen to prohibit the use of TikTok.
After Google parent Alphabet lays off hundreds of employees from its global recruiting team, several people shared their shock and despair in LinkedIn platform. As many have started hunting for new opportunities, they also shared notes of their experience while working at the company.

After Meta, Microsoft and Amazon, Alphabet is the recent 'giant' tech company to lay off its several employees. Earlier, Google has announced its decision to lay off as many as 12,000 people in January.

One such employee, who recently lost the job at Alphabet, wrote on LinkedIn "I struggle making this post but unfortunately today I got laid off at my dream company."

"I am devastated and I am heartbroken. I loved to tell people I worked at Google," wrote a Seattle-based technical recruiter, reported Moneycontrol.

"Growing up in a small town and attending a small university, I never dreamed of working at Google. It was too big of a dream for me. But I got the job, and it was the best experience of my life. It was more than I could have ever imagined," she wrote.

The company has reduced its workforce by 6 percent. The company said that its decision to let go a few hundred employees is not part of a wide-scale layoff. It also said that it would help workers search for roles within the company and elsewhere.

While announcing the layoffs, CEO Sundar Pichai had said that "The fact these changes will impact the lives of Googlers weighs heavily on me, and I take full responsibility for the decisions that led us here," he had said.

With the recent tech layoffs, employees in the field are concerned and deeply troubled.

Alphabet had said that it will "retain a significant majority of the team for hiring critical roles".

According to reports, tech companies had laid off around 2 lakh employees this year.
CAR T-cell therapy is heralded as a cutting-edge breakthrough in cancer treatment. In India, one out of every nine people are likely to develop cancer during their lifetimes. CAR T-cell therapy uses the bodys own special immune cells to tackle the disease.

Excerpts from an interview with Dr. Ashok Kumar Vaid, chairman, Medical and Haemato Oncology, Cancer Institute, Medanta, Gurugram.

Q: What is CAR T-cell therapy and whats new about it?

A: Earlier, cancer treatment used to rely purely on surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, in the 2000s, new ways to fight cancer such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy were introduced. It uses special immune T-cells, which our bodies use to fight off diseases. In this therapy, we change these T-cells to make them better at finding and attacking various threats, including cancer cells, viruses, and bacteria. This highly targeted and dynamic therapy represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment, offering the potential to specifically target cancer cells with a precision that was previously unimaginable.

Q: How does the therapy work?

A: T-cells are engineered to incorporate a Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) on their surface. These T-cells can be obtained either from the patients own blood (Autologous) or from another donor (Allogenic). This CAR is meticulously designed to recognise and bind with specific proteins found exclusively on the surface of cancer cells. This process transforms T-cells into dynamic agents with dual functionality, essentially akin to a twin drug. These engineered T-cells undergo a process of expansion, producing millions of cells within a laboratory setting.

Subsequently, these multiplied cells are introduced into the patient through intravenous infusion. These CAR T-cells are then expected to continue multiplying within the patient's body, guided by their engineered receptors. This proliferation enables them to detect and eliminate any cancer cells expressing the specific protein targeted by the CAR. These cells function as living therapeutic agents within the patients system. They travel throughout the body, recognising and engaging with cells that express the specific protein associated with the cancer. Once engaged, the CAR on the T-cell activates and subsequently eliminates the targeted cancer cells.

Simply put, first T-cells are modified in a lab to recognise cancer cells. Then, these modified T-cells are infused into the patients body. These cells keep growing inside the patient, finds and destroy cancer cells with precision.

Q: Who are the primary candidates eligible for CAR T-cell therapy?

A: Much of the research in CAR T-cell therapy has been focused on leukaemias and lymphomas, typically involving patients who have experienced treatment failures, including bone marrow or stem cell transplants. The patients who have faced the recurrence of their leukaemia or lymphoma also becomes eligible candidates for CAR T-cell therapy. More recently, CAR T-cell therapy has been approved for use in multiple myeloma as well. Examining these tumors, it's evident that most are associated with blood or blood-like structures in the body, such as the lymph nodes, primarily linked to the immune system within the lymph nodes.

While research has also been conducted in the context of solid tumors, the outcomes have not been as successful for several reasons. Solid tumours generally lack a singular protein or antigen that CAR T-cells can effectively target, and the physical structure of solid tumours makes it challenging to deliver CAR T-cells to their core. Consequently, CAR T-cell therapy has not yielded the same results for solid tumors found in organs like the lungs or breast.

However, CAR T-cell therapy has achieved more significant success in treating relapsed and refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia, B-cell non-Hodgkins lymphomas, certain lymphomas like mantle cell lymphomas, and multiple myeloma. These are the approved indications to date, but ongoing research is broadening the spectrum of tumors under investigation. As scientific understanding progresses, CAR T-cell therapy is expected to be applied to a wider range of cancer types.

Q: What are the side effects of the therapy?

A: When CAR T-cells are infused into the body, they may trigger reactions and side effects. These side effects are commonly associated with the engagement of CAR T-cells with target cells, such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS), which is the most frequent and severe side effect of CAR T-cell therapy. Despite these side effects, they are generally accepted in the majority of cases, as they indicate the activation of CAR T-cells against cancer cells.

The side effects associated with (CRS) are due to specific chemicals released by CAR T-cells during their interaction with cancer cells. These chemicals circulate in the bloodstream, which is the intended target to combat cancer. However, side effects may affect other organ systems, including the brain, lungs, and the immune system itself. These side effects can lead to severe complications such as high fever and a drop in blood pressure, swelling in the brain and other internal organs etc.

Q: Are these side effects manageable?

A: Doctors employ various strategies to manage these side effects, and patients are typically kept in the hospital for monitoring and treatment. There are effective methods to mitigate these side effects, including the use of specific medications during the hospitalisation. Essentially, in CRS, there is inflammation in internal organs, prompting the administration of drugs to counteract this inflammation, particularly in the brain, lungs, and other parts of the body. These drugs may include steroids and certain monoclonal antibodies specifically designed to address CRS.

Q: What are some notable successes or breakthroughs that have been observed with CAR T-cell therapy with regard to personalised cancer treatment?

A: CAR T-cell therapy is a firmly established and remarkably effective treatment for patients with relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia, as well as certain relapsed lymphomas and myelomas. These individuals have previously exhausted various treatment options and currently have limited therapeutic alternatives available to them for either management or a potential cure. CAR T-cells represent a remarkable success story in the realm of medical science, marking the forefront of innovative advancements.

Q: How do you envision CAR T-cell therapy evolving in the next few years, and what impact could it have on the landscape of cancer treatment?

A: The research in CAR T-cell therapy is an ongoing and rapidly evolving field. Numerous clinical trials are currently underway, driven in part by the identification of additional targets on tumour cells. This bodes well for the development of future CAR T-cell therapies. Up to this point, two primary antigens have been utilised: CD19 for leukaemia and lymphoma and BCMA for myeloma. The currently approved CAR T-cell therapies, totalling around half a dozen, have focused on these two targets.

However, as new targets are identified, particularly in tumour types like breast, kidney, and brain cancer, we anticipate further advancements. These developments should be regarded as significant successes in the realm of medical science.

Its worth noting that CAR T-cell therapies have encountered challenges in treating solid tumours due to the unique micro-environment in which these tumours exist. Scientists are actively working on designing solutions to enhance the effectiveness of CAR T-cell therapies in solid tumours. As our understanding continues to expand, the growth of CAR T-cell therapies is expected, potentially encompassing a broader range of tumour types in the future.
People carry the remains of a victim of the deadly 6.8-magnitude September 8 earthquake, in the village of Imi N'Tala near Amizmiz in central Morocco on September 10, 2023.

The stench of death wafted through the village of Imi NTala high up in Moroccos Atlas Mountains, where last weeks catastrophic earthquake razed the hamlets mud-brick buildings and killed dozens of residents.

Bulldozers and responders have been digging through the wreckage around the clock in the hopes of finding the eight to 10 corpses still underneath, even as an aftershock Wednesday evening rattled already frayed nerves.

The mountain was split in half and started falling. Houses were fully destroyed, a local man, Ait Ougadir Al Houcine, said Tuesday as crews worked to recover bodies, including his sisters. Some people lost all their cattle. We have nothing but the clothes were wearing. Everything is gone.

The scene in Imi NTala, which is mainly home to herders and farmers and lost 96 people to Fridays earthquake, mirrored the situation in dozens of communities along the treacherous mountain roads south of Marrakech. Men in donated djellabas  long, loose robes common to Morocco  neatly arranged their prayer rugs atop dust and rocks when they were unable to find open space and solid ground. Donkeys brayed as they passed people covering their noses to block the smell of decomposition.

The death and injury counts have risen as responders have reached more of these remote villages, where they dug up bodies and sent people to hospitals. Moroccan authorities reported 2,901 deaths and several thousand injuries as of Tuesday. The United Nations estimated that the magnitude 6.8 quake had affected some 300,000 people.

On Tuesday, King Mohammed VI visited a hospital and donated blood in Marrakech, which is about 40 miles (64 kilometers) north of Imi NTala. And aid finally arrived in Imi NTala the nearby communities of Anougal, Imi NIsli and Igourdane. White and yellow tents lined the partially paved roads, pyramids of water bottles and milk cartons were stacked nearby, and Moroccans from the countrys larger cities handed out clay tagine pots and neatly packed bags of food aid.

Camera crews from France, Spain and Qatars Al Jazeera set up as Moroccan emergency responders  along with crews from Qatar, Spain and international nongovernmental organizations  jackhammered through rocks to recover a womans body from under a crumbling house that looked like it could fall at any moment.

She likely died because  unlike the buildings that fell in Turkey and Syrias earthquake earlier this year  the mud bricks used to build homes in Imi NTala left little space for air that trapped people would need to survive, said Patrick Villadry of the French rescue crew, ULIS.

When we dig, we look for someone alive. From there, we dont ask ourselves questions. If theyre alive, great. If theyre dead, its a shame, he said, noting that recovering the dead was important for Moroccan families.

Morocco has limited the amount of earthquake aid allowed into the country and allowed response crews from only four countries  Spain, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar  as well as NGOs. Villadrys five-person, four-dog crew from Nice was among the few French NGOs to have made it to the disaster site. It arrived Saturday, he said.

Though the government has cautioned that poorly coordinated aid would be counterproductive, the explanation has prompted skepticism among some Moroccans, including Brahim Ait Blasri, who watched the recovery attempts in Imi NTala.

Its not true. Its politics, he said, referring to Moroccos decision not to accept aid from countries such as the United States and France. We have to set aside our pride. This is too much.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's wife Riniki Bhuyan Sarma on Wednesday said that she will file a defamation suit of Rs 10 crore against Congress Deputy leader in Lok sabha Gaurav Gogoi for his alleged 'slanderous campaign' against the company with which she is associated.

Gogoi on Wednesday alleged that the company of the chief minister's wife got a credit subsidy of Rs 10 crore.

Bhuyan Sarma, in a statement, alleged that Gogoi has attacked a 17-year-old Assamese enterprise, headed by a woman entrepreneur, with the intention to malign and defame the company which has adhered to every aspect of the law.

''To protect the reputation of our hardworking employees from this slanderous campaign by MP Gaurav Gogoi, I am thereby constrained to file a case of defamation with Rs 10 crore damages against him in the court of law,'' she said.

The chief minister and Gogoi have been locked in a war of words on X since Wednesday on the issue of the former's wife's company allegedly being given the credit subsidy under the PM Kisan Sampada Yojana.

Sarma has also denied repeatedly that neither his wife, nor the company she is associated with, has received or claimed any amount from the government of India.

He also said that he was willing to accept any punishment, including retirement from public life, if there was any evidence that his wife had received or claimed any amount from the government of India.
Defying speculations that the Congress's first list of candidates for poll-bound Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh might be announced in the first fortnight of September, the party seems to have held back the action at least till the special session of the parliament is over. The special session is scheduled from September 18-22.

Following intense sessions of discussions in Bhopal for four days with different levels of office bearers; the meeting of the screening committee for Madhya Pradesh, headed by Jitendra Singh, was held on Tuesday and Wednesday in New Delhi. There were speculations that the first list might be declared after the meeting.

Similarly, there were strong speculations that the first list of Chhattisgarh Congress could come by September 8 and latest by September 12. But, despite a series of meetings at the CM House in Raipur, in the presence of senior leaders, no such announcements came.

Sources said that the party had deferred the announcement keeping in view various points  one of them being the upcoming special session of parliament. Though the published agenda of the special parliament session does not mention it, the opposition feels that the NDA government might bring in some surprise last-minute agenda including the 'One nation; one election' issue during the session. If any such thing is done and a decision is taken, then the assembly elections might be deferred or Lok Sabha elections could be preponed  something that will have an impact on candidates' selection process.

Apart from this, there are also speculations that the Congress seems to be wary about announcing the candidates too much in advance as they might become a target of the central agencies like the Enforcement Directorate and Income Tax department. Congress senior leader Digvijaya Singh expressed such apprehensions recently in Bhopal saying that the BJP was planning to open offices of central agencies in every city to target the opposition.

In Chhattisgarh, Congress leaders are already among those facing raids of ED and IT for the past several months. There are also the usual apprehensions about dissent and jumping ship by the rejected aspirants once tickets are announced.

Before attending the screening committee meeting in Delhi on Tuesday, state Congress chief Kamal Nath had made it clear that the party was in no hurry to announce the candidates list and will do so at 'appropriate time'. He has repeatedly said that the sure candidates had been already given indication to start preparations. A party senior in Bhopal told THE WEEK that the candidates list is not expected soon as multiple rounds of discussions are still pending.

MP's first list may have over 100 candidates

In Madhya Pradesh, there are speculations that candidates for over 100 seats out of the total 230  including about 50 present MLAs whose survey reports are fine and about 50 seats repeatedly lost by the Congress in Madhya Pradesh could be declared in the first list. There have been rumours that despite MP Congress chief Kamal Nath preparing a list of probable candidates for several seats based on repeated surveys conducted by him, some other senior leaders have presented their own preferential candidates for certain seats.

In Chhattisgarh, there have been differences in the names proposed by the state unit and those coming out of surveys and confidential reports from the ground, therefore, a decision has been taken to prepare new panels of names. Two meetings were held in Raipur in the presence of state in-charge Kumari Selja, Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and state party chief Deepak Baij apart from other senior leaders during the past week.

Chairman of the screening committee Ajay Maken is said to have insisted that only those candidates whose names come out in the confidential reports and ground surveys will be considered. Chhattisgarh's first list might have 25-30 candidates, sources said. There are also indications that overall, at least 40 new faces will be in the fray in the state which has 90 seats. 22 who lost in 2018 polls and about 18 current MLAs including two ministers are out of consideration.

BJP central election panel mulls on second list

Meanwhile, the BJP, which has already sprung a surprise by announcing first list of 39 and 21 candidates in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh respectively in August third week, well ahead of the possible poll dates, is said to be ready to announce its second list in both the states.

The meetings of the central election committee of the party for Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh were held on Tuesday and Wednesday nights respectively and a consensus was built on the names in the second list.

In Madhya Pradesh, the party might announce 35-40 names in the second list shortly. Among the names will include a candidate for Chhindwara seat where Kamal Nath is likely to contest. This second list will also be for seats among those 103 where the BJP had lost in 2018, similar to the earlier list of 39 candidates. During the central committee meeting, panels for about 50 seats prepared in a prior meeting organised by party president J.P. Nadda, were discussed, sources said.

For Chhattisgarh, candidates for about 12-15 seats are likely to be announced very soon, sources said. There were speculations that the list might come soon after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Chhattisgarh visit on September 14.

These seats will also be those where the BJP lost assembly polls once, twice or three times. The party has identified 52 such seats in the state and among them, the list for 21 seats has already been announced.
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and the opposition Congress have issued whips to their MPs in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha asking them to be present in parliament during the special session from September 18 to 22. Reports said the whips were issued in view of some key agenda that may be brought in during the session.

"Very important issues will be taken up for discussion in the Rajya Sabha during this special session i.e. from September 18 to 22, 2023. "All members of Congress party in the Rajya Sabha are requested to kindly remain present in the House from 11 am onwards till the adjournment of the House from September 18 to September 22 without fail and support the party's stand," the three-line whip states. This may be treated as most important," the Congress whip to its MPs said.

The government on Wednesday released the agenda for the special five-day session, which included a discussion on Parliament's journey of 75 years starting from Samvidhan Sabha, Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, the Post Office Bill, the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, and the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill.

The Congress, however, believes there could be a "legislative grenade" up its sleeves that the government is keeping hidden.

"The agenda as published at the moment, is much ado about nothing all this could have waited till the Winter session in November. I am sure the legislative grenades are being kept up their sleeves to be unleashed at the last moment as usual. Parde ke peeche kuch aur hai!" Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said.

Government has convened an all-party meeting on September 17, a day before the start of the special session.

Last week, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking clarity on the agenda of the session. She had also listed out nine issues that the opposition parties wanted to discuss or debate on during the session.

Gandhis letter, however, elicited a strong retort from the government with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi accusing her of politicising the functioning of parliament and creating unnecessary controversy. Political parties are never consulted before calling a Parliament session, Joshi said in his letter to the Congress leader.

It is also expected that the Parliament proceedings will move from the old building to the new one during this session.
The Election Commission has called rival factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) for a personal hearing on October 6, sources said on Thursday.

A faction led by Ajit Pawar had rebelled against NCP leader Sharad Pawar and moved the poll panel staking claim over the party name and symbol.

After due consideration of the totality of information available on record, the commission has arrived at the conclusion that there are two rival groups in the Nationalist Congress Party -- one led by Sharad Pawar and the other by Ajit Pawar -- the sources pointed out.

They said that since each group is claiming to be the party, the matter required a substantive determination by the commission under Para 15 of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order 1968.

Accordingly, the poll panel has directed both the groups to remain present in person or through their authorised representative for a personal hearing in the matter on October 6.

The commission will now commence the substantive hearing under Para 15 of the Election Symbols (Reservation & Allotment) Order, they said, citing rules.

Two days before rebelling against uncle Sharad Pawar to join the Maharashtra government in early July, NCP leader Ajit Pawar had approached the Election Commission on June 30 staking claim to the party name as well as symbol and subsequently also declared himself as the party president with support of 40 lawmakers.

Recently, the Sharad Pawar-led faction had told the Election Commission that there was no dispute in the party, except that a few mischievous individuals have defected from the organisation for their personal ambitions, a reference to the rebel group headed by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday targetted the Opposition's INDIA alliance and alleged that it wants to finish Sanatan Dharma. Speaking in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, Modi said that the alliance has a hidden agenda to 'attack India's culture'.

He termed the opposition alliance as 'ghamandiya' [arrogant] and said they neither have policies nor a leader. His statement comes in the wake of remarks made by DMK leader and Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who said Sanatan Dharma is against social justice and that it should be eradicated.

In a scathing attack on INDIA, he further said: At a time when Bharat is emerging as a world leader at global forums, some parties are trying to divide the country and its people. They don't have a leader yet and there is suspense over who will lead them into the Lok Sabha elections next year.

"In the days to come, they will step up their attacks on us. Every Sanatani, every person who loves this country, those who love the people of this country; all of us have to stay vigilant. Through the strength of our organisation, we have to ensure that their strategy does not succeed," he said, NDTV reported.

The PM was speaking after laying the foundation stone of a Rs 49,000 crore-worth petrochemicals complex at Bina refinery in Sagar district along with 10 industrial projects in the state.

He also announced that the government will provide 75 lakh new gas connections in the country.

Targeting the Congress further, the PM said those who ruled Madhya Pradesh for a long time did nothing else other than corruption and crime.

People from previous generations will remember how the Congress left the state's Bundelkhand region in desperate need of water, electricity and roads. I am convinced that Madhya Pradesh will touch new heights when it comes to industrialisation in the coming days, he said.
The Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police have resumed the operation against terrorists in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, a day after two Army officials and a senior police officer were killed in encounter.

Colonel Manpreet Singh, CO 19 RR (12 Sikh Light Infantry), Major Ashish Dhonack and DySP Humayan Bhat were killed in the operations that happened in the Kokernag area of the Anantnag district on Wednesday.

As per the latest report from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, they have managed to encircle two Lashkar-e-Toiba terrorists. "In solemn tribute to the unwavering valor of Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak & DSP Humayun Bhat who laid down their lives leading from the front during this ongoing operation. Our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LET terrorists including Uzair Khan," Kashmir Zone Police said in a post on X.

#WATCH | J&K | Visuals from the Kokernag area of Anantnag where an encounter broke out between security forces and terrorists, yesterday.



(Visuals deferred by unspecified time)



Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak & DSP Humayun Bhat lost their lives during this ongoing pic.twitter.com/oapoH7bUlQ  ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2023

The banned Resistance Front, believed to be a shadow group of Pakistan-based Lashker-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Meanwhile, the last rites of DSP Humayun Muzammil Bhat were performed in Budgam on Wednesday evening. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed his grief over the death of the officers in the encounter.

"Paid tributes to JKP's DySP Humayun Bhat, who laid down his life in an anti-terror operation in Anantnag. I salute the indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice of Col Manpreet Singh & Major Ashish Dhonack. Entire nation stands firmly with their families in this hour of grief," LGs office said in a post on the social media platform, X.

Meanwhile, the relatives of Colonel Manpreet Singh said the deceased officer's mortal remains will reach Mohali on Thursday evening. "We got to know it last evening. Colonel Singh was awarded with Sena Medal a year ago. As per the reports, the body will reach Mohali between 4-5 pm in the evening," father in law Jagdev Singh told ANI. His relatives last spoke to him on Wednesday morning.

Major Dhonack belonged to 15th Sikh LI and was hit by bullets resulting in critical injuries. His was posted from Meerut to Jammu only two years ago and hails from Panipat. He leaves behind a two-year-old daughter. He was also awarded the Sena Medal this year.
National Conference (NC) President and Member of Parliament, Farooq Abdullah, emphasised on Thursday that militancy has not ceased in Jammu & Kashmir, and the path to peace lies in dialogue.

While speaking to the reporters after visiting the residence of deputy superintendent (DSP) Himayun Bhat, who lost his life in an anti-militancy operation in Kokernag, Anantnag, Abdullah said that wars does not resolve issues in the past nor will they bring peace in the future.

Bhat and two other security officersColonel Manpreet Singh and Major Ashish Dhonchakwere killed in the encounter with terrorists in Kokernag on Wednesday.

"Militancy persists in J&K, and we cannot attain peace without engaging in talks with Pakistan...India and Pakistan must engage in dialogue to end this persistent danger, said Abdullah.

He said conflict causes destruction, as exemplified by the situation in Ukraine.

Abdullah also mourned the loss of three officers, stating, This is a profound tragedy for the family and the nation.

A Colonel, a Major, and this young DSP have made the ultimate sacrifice, he said. This ongoing destruction seems unending, with recent encounters even in Rajouri, he added.

Abdullah criticised BJP-led Centre for claiming that terrorism has ended in J&K. He termed government's assertion as premature. Until a path to peace is established, true peace remains elusive, said Abdullah.

He pointed out that even Ukraine and Russia are pursuing talks to resolve their conflict.

Meanwhile, when asked about BJPs intention to retrieve Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Abdullah said let them try if they believe its feasible.

Let them do it. Who is stopping them?...If they feel that it will end the problem, they should do it. Let me make it clear that no issue can be resolved by confrontation. Pakistan has fought four wars and the border remains unchanged, he said.

While stressing on the dialogue between both the nations, Abdullah said that the neighbouring country has never accepted the status quo. We are naive to assume it will conclude unless both countries set aside their egos, he added.

When asked about the government's claim that Pakistan is not amenable to peace in Kashmir he said How does it matter...They cite UN resolutions... What will you tell them? They are saying we do not accept this decision.

Regarding reports that Pakistan was sending militants through Nepal and Punjab, Abdullah said he was neither in the intelligence nor in the government to throw light into it, but wondered if these militants were from another country.

They are fully trained...I fear that these foreign terrorists might be from another country, they are so well trained, he said. When inquired whether he meant Afghanistan, Abdullah refused to point fingers at anyone.
Doggedly aiming to inflict as many casualties among security forces as possible, there is an emerging pattern in the way militants are operating in Kashmir.

With the intent of demolishing whatever sign of normalcy has recently set in the disturbed Union Territory after long decades of violence and militancy, the militants are increasingly adopting the tactic of luring the security forces into an area of their own choosing before trapping them with volleys of heavy gun fire.

And in most cases, the area of the encounter is in the hills and forests where militants are already well-entrenched in a vantage position yet with adequate cover from the returning fire. Coming well-prepared to engage, they also position themselves with adequate store of ammunition, weapons and food in preparation for a long gunfight.

As with jungle warfare techniques, the area is also decided on the basis of a secure exit route that is taken by the militants after inflicting maximum possible damage.

That is the reason why the encounter was still on when last reports came in on Thursday.

Another challenge that he security forces are tackling is the lack of chatter or telephonic or electronic conversations between the militants, their network of overground supporters and with their Pakistan-based handlers. This makes it difficult to pinpoint their locations with absolute accuracy.

These are definite changes in tactic after the trend of hybrid militants gunning down soft targets including migrant labourers in urban locations of Jammu and Kashmir.

On Wednesday, Colonel Manpreet Singh, the commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, his deputy Major Ashish Dhonchak, and Humayun Muzamil Bhat, a deputy superintendent in of police (DSP) were killed in the gunfight in the Gadool forest at Kokernag in Anantnag district.

Reports said the security forces, led by the officers, were climbing up a stiff cliff where the militants had taken positions. So secure were the militants positions that they even fired at a helicopter that had flown to the area to pick up the wounded for emergency medical treatment.

The very fact that a colonel, a major and a police DSP have been killed also underlines the fact that Indian security forces officers lead from the front as part of their training which is why they most of the time become the first targets.

The J&K Polices official handle on X, formerly called Twitter, posted:  our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LET terrorists, including Uzair Khan.

On Thursday, another soldier is reported to have succumbed to his injuries.

A fledgling outfit called The Resistance Front (TRF) believed by the Indian security agencies to be another front for the Lashkar e Taiba (LeT) as part of their recent name-changing and restyling spreehad claimed responsibility on social media for the attack.

The statement also claimed that the attack was in revenge for the killing of Riyaz Ahmad alias Abu Qasim in Pakistan-occupied Kashmirs Rawalkote last Friday. Ahmed was shot by unidentified gunmen inside a mosque while offering pre-dawn prayers.

Ahmad was the fourth top militant from Kashmir to be gunned down this year.

On February 14, Aijaz Ahmad Ahangar, alias Abu Usman Al-Kashmiri, a top terrorist of the global terror group Islamic State was shot dead in Kabul in Afghanistan.

On February 26, Syed Khalid Raza, former Al-Badr Mujahideen commander, was killed by unidentified gunmen in Karachi. On March 20, Bashir Ahmad Peer alias Imtiyaz Alam, a top Hizbul Mujahideen commander was killed in a similar manner in Pakistans Rawalpindi.
The BJP has set the ball rolling for the Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh with Prime Minister Narendra Modi arriving at the states on Thursday to inaugurate development projects.

In Madhya Pradesh, where the BJP is hoping to retain power, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of projects worth over Rs 50,700 cr. These include a petrochemical complex at the Bina refinery and 10 new industrial projects across the state. Power and renewable energy manufacturing zones in Narmadapuram district, two IT parks in Indore, a mega industrial park in Ratlam, and six new industrial areas across Madhya Pradesh are part of the projects.



As for election preparations, the BJP Central Election Committee has already finalised the names of candidates in Madhya Pradesh. It has released the first list of 39 candidates and the second list, said to have 35 names, will come out in a day or two. This time, the candidate list has come out early, much before the Code of Conduct is in place.



Though the saffron party has undertaken the Jan Ashirvad Yatra to drum up public support, the response has reportedly been lukewarm. The party is also worried about the defections to the Opposition Congress.



In Chhattisgarh, Modi will address a public rally in Raigarh and also dedicate rail sector projects worth around Rs 6,350 crore on Thursday. He will also lay the foundation stone of 50 beds each 'critical care block' to be built in nine districts of Chhattisgarh under a healthcare initiative of the Centre.



The party which is hoping to bounce back to power in the state, is taking out 'Parivartan Yatra' (March of Change) to oust the ruling Congress from power. Home Minister Amit Shah and party chief JP Nadda held a meeting with local leaders last Tuesday night. Chhattisgarh BJP President Arun Sao, BL Santosh, Mansukh Mandaviya and Om Mathur, former Chief Minister Raman Singh and many senior party leaders attended the meeting.



BJP has announced the names of candidates for 21 out of 90 assembly seats in the state and may release another list of candidates' names soon.



There are also reports that the BJP was waiting for the list of Congress candidates before releasing the second list of its candidates.


Prime Minister Narendra Modis scathing attack on the Opposition alliance over DMK leaders remarks against Sanatana Dharma has set the tone for the ruling partys campaign in the next round of elections. Modi accused the INDIA grouping of dividing the country and society.



BJP president J.P. Nadda too accused the Opposition of twin agenda, bashing Sanatana sanskriti and bullying the media. The BJP has been pinning the blame of DMK leaders statements, particularly on Udhayanidhi Stalins against Sanatana Dharma, on the Congress leadership asking Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi to respond. The BJP has been questioning the alleged silence of the other leaders of the alliance over the remarks.

Even during the special session of the parliament, when the INDIA alliance is expected to attack the government over various issues, the BJP may counter them with Sanatana dharma issue.

Modi spoke about the issue for the first time when being on a tour to Madhya Pradesh to lay the foundation stone for various infrastructural projects. Modi has given a clear-cut line of attack to the party which will be used aggressively during the polls.

Prime Minister said the INDIA alliance have a hidden agenda and there was confusion among them on picking up their leader. He said the alliance had decided on the agenda during their Mumbai meeting and they want to destroy Sanatan. He referred to the cultural icons like Ahaliya Bai, Lokmanya Tilak, Mahatma Gandhi and Rani Laxmibai, who entrenched their work in Sanatan culture. The Opposition wants to destroy the same Sanatan. This Sanatan has kept India connected for thousands of years. Every Sanatani should beware them, Modi said.

Udhayanidhi, son of Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin, had sparked off massive controversy when he called for the eradication of Sanatan dharma for its intrinsic divisions of caste. His remarks have put many parties of the INDIA alliance on the back foot as they distanced themselves from his remarks, lest they are understood to be against the Hindu religion.

Both sides have accused each other of polarising the issue with an eye on the elections. The issue is only set to gain further traction in the coming days as the campaign in Hindi heartland states- Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh picks up.
UFOs are dominating the public sphere in several countries. There have been so many documented sightings of abnormal phenomena never seen before that experts are turning to governments, demanding that they share this information with scientists and society, for for the advancement of knowledge.

Were not alone, was a phrase that was repeated in the Mexican Congress this past Tuesday, during a public hearing that brought together researchers of these sightings from several countries. These strange apparitions are very fashionable lately.

Pilots and air traffic controllers  who call themselves privileged witnesses  as well as astronomers from universities such as Harvard and experts and politicians from Japan, Argentina, France, Brazil, and Peru offered up their testimonies. They highlighted the frustration, harassment and threats received by those who dare to report these inexplicable findings in the airspace or sea surface, among other places.

The U.S. has had a situation  led by former pilot Ryan Graves, who participated in similar parliamentary sessions in the United States  where the same thing was requested: that authorities grant citizens the right to access the available documents on the phenomena. The potential danger to commercial and military aircraft due to these objects  of strange technology and composition  has also been raised, particularly since they defy the known laws of physics.

Mexican TV journalist Jaime Maussan Flota  a well-known ufologist, who was in charge of conducting the public hearing in Mexicos Congress  recalled how a colleague from his student days (now an air traffic controller) often called him to say: Do you know that here, in the control tower, everyone laughs at you? That was a long time ago until the calls from this friend began to change in tone: What the hell is going on? These objects move everywhere, what do we do? We have them on the radar.

Maussan offered up this anecdote before introducing his friend Enrique Kolbeck Vergara, who has 48 years of experience as a pilot and air traffic controller. He detailed four events (with no apparent explanation) that occurred in Mexico and severely affected commercial navigation. The first  the Mazatlan case, in 1975  was when 13 aircraft were flying and one of them was intercepted by an unidentified flying object that forced it to change its route. The presence and closeness was such that, practically, the object accompanied the plane from air to land. Everyone saw it, Kolbeck Vergara noted.

In July 1994, Kolbeck Vergara continued, an Aeromexico plane that departed from Guadalajara was visited by two objects. There was an impact on the body of the plane, he recalled. 30 minutes earlier, several calls were received in the control tower from people related to aeronautics, who said that they saw the phenomenon occur over the sky of the World Trade Center in Mexico City. The radar didnt detect it, but the [object] could have hit the ground on Insurgentes Avenue, one of the most important avenues in the city, the air traffic controller detailed.

The third case, he reported, occurred in the central Mexican city of Morelia, in October 2002: an illicit interference  in air navigation terms  appeared at the head of runway 23 and prevented a plane from taking off. Pilots and controllers saw metallic-looking objects [65 feet] in diameter that were rising and falling slowly. There were 15 or 20 of them. The firefighters noticed it and so did the people. It was reported, Kolbeck affirmed. The fearful pilot  when he was finally able to take off  warned the tower that he had almost collided with some spheres on his way off the runway.

The group of experts that spoke before Congress this Tuesday. Camara de diputados

Finally, the controller recounted how a Mexican Air Force patrol targeting drug-trafficking operations and detecting clandestine runways  equipped with high-tech radar and equipment to detect heat  sighted a flying object that passed through the Gulf of Mexico, intercepted the plane, surrounded it and abandoned it, in an operation that lasted for 30 minutes.

These arent myths or legends  phenomena like this are compromising the safety of airspace, with superior, distinct technologies. These are ships that, apparently, operate with a determined desire to navigate. They appear and disappear, they violate the laws and regulations, warned Kolbeck Vergara, who had once mocked his ufologist friend from his tower.

Traditional UFOs are now called by the acronym UAP, for Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena, and the interest in them is no longer limited to the general public. UAPs also concerns pilots, as well as some scientists. From Harvard University, astrophysicist Avi Loeb spoke to the congresspeople and guests via videoconference: Its arrogant to think that were alone in the universe. The existence of these [unknown] beings probably predates the human presence on Earth.

Loeb directs the Galileo Project at Harvard. He spoke of the documented existence of products created by extraterrestrials that they have detected with acoustic microphones and infrared cameras, as well as through climate observation. He spoke of an object thrown by a mysterious force and propelled by sunlight. Measuring [five feet], it collided with the Earth in 2014. It moved 95% faster than the stars and was made of a very strong material. Next, his team collected 700 metal pieces of beryllium, lanthanum, and uranium  the same alloy detected along the path that the meteor followed from outside the solar system. Share the information, it will be useful for our progress, Loeb requested, speaking directly to national governments.

Similar suggestions were made by Japanese congressman Yoshiharu Asakawa, who complained about the lack of transparency in his country and the difficulties that he has faced while bringing up these issues in the political sphere. He noted the substantial presence of UFOs over Japan. Meanwhile, Rony Tadeu Vernet  from the Brazilian Center for Physical Research  recounted some of these phenomena, which are still hidden by the military. He requested that the world observe them free of social and religious stigmas. Its a global issue, the Japanese politician agreed.

Representative Sergio Gutierrez Luna  who oversaw the Mexican parliamentary session  was responsible for asking the speakers to stand and swear to tell the truth before beginning to offer their testimony. Then, Jaime Maussan took the lead. He explained how, in the United States, Democrats and Republicans promoted the initiative in Congress, where singular events were revealed  events that science has no explanation for. This isnt an issue of parties, but of humanity, which should unite us, not separate us.

During the session, videos recorded by the Mexican Air Force in 2004 were projected, when the airplanes infrared cameras captured 11 flying objects that were perceived as balls of light, 100 miles off the Pacific coast. Were not alone. What a strange thing, the pilots are heard saying.

Maussan offered up some key figures that, in his opinion, prevent us from denying extraterrestrial life, its intelligence and its possible interest in our planet: There are trillions of galaxies in the universe and each one has 100 billion stars. Each one of them has at least one planet. So, were talking about 100 sextillion planets. We have to have the courage to accept that intelligent life visits us from the depths of the universe. Were not alone  we must move towards a destination that will take us to the depths of the cosmos.

Another curious occurrence of the day was made possible by a group of scientists. They presented some mummies from Nazca, Peru, exhibiting two of them in the Mexican Congress, to the delight of the photojournalists. They pointed out that the DNA of these bodies  dissected with diatomaceous earth  presents a 30% difference compared to the human genetic material, which shows that these mummies belong to another species.

The discovery of these bodies  which carbon-14 dating pegs at being more than 1,000-years-old  is one of the mysteries that divides the scientific community. The supposed bodies are humanoid in appearance, but their three-fingered hands and feet, strong and light bones, absence of teeth and stereoscopic vision give them characteristics typical of birds. With a retractable neck attached to the base of a fat head, the strangest thing about these beings is that some of them carry eggs with embryos inside, according to experts in Congress.

Another discovery that adds to the mystery are cadmium and osmium implants  the latter expensive, scarce and dense  which, today, are used for telecommunications and satellites. On top of this, the mummies fingerprints arent rounded, but are made up of straight, horizontal lines. Whether theyre aliens or not, we dont know. But they were intelligent, and they lived with us. That should be enough to rewrite history, Maussan concluded.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
From September 15, over one crore women in Tamil Nadu will receive Rs 1,000 every month under Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Scheme, which is being touted as the biggest direct benefit cash transfer scheme.

Tamil Nadu takes a historic leap with the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Scheme, offering Rs 1,000 monthly assistance to 1,06,50,000 women family heads. A groundbreaking initiative reshaping women's welfare in India, which is set to inspire many other states, Stalin wrote on the social media platform X.

The state government had received 1.63 crore applications from women who wanted to receive the Rs 1,000 cash transfer benefit, considered to be one of the pet schemes of Chief Minister Stalin. The CM had launched special camps to help women submit applications for the scheme. As many as 36,000 special camps were held across the state in July and August.

Even before the launch, Stalin had been personally overseeing the progress of the scheme. When Palanivel Thiagarajan was the finance minister, the government had worked for over an year on the eligibility criteria for selecting beneficiaries. The finance department had approached the Union government and collected details of the women who were really in need of money. The eligibility criteria for selecting one crore women was fixed after several rounds of discussions and deliberations within the finance department. Stalin participated in meetings to review the scheme's implementation. On September 11, during a meeting with the officials, Stalin asked them to ensure that the scheme was executed without any glitches.

It is one of the signature schemes of our chief minister. This scheme will make a significant impact on every eligible woman. We have ensured that the scheme is implemented without any glitches, Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu told THE WEEK. He also said the government has already taken into consideration the budgetary requirement for the scheme. Thennarasu denied reports that said funds allocated for departments have been diverted for the the scheme. The government has, however, earmarked a huge sum for the scheme.

Politically, the Rs 1000 cash dole, along with the free bus ride for women in Tamil Nadu are the two major schemes through which the DMK wants to wean away the huge chunk of women vote bank from the AIADMK.
DMK leader and Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Thursday hit out at Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the latters remark that Hindi unites the diversity of languages in India. Udhayanidhi, who is already in the middle of a controversy over his statements on Sanatan Dharma, asked Shah to stop oppressing non-Hindi languages.

I strongly condemn the statement of Union Home Minister Amit Shah claiming that Hindi is the uniting force of India and it is empowering other regional languages, the DMK leader said in a post on X.

Udhayanidhi further noted that Hindi is spoken only in four or fives states in the country and hence the statement of Shah is totally absurd.

It is only another version of imposing Hindi under the guise of generating livelihood, he said.

While we are speaking Tamil here, Kerala speaks Malayalam. Where does Hindi merge with and empower us? Amit Shah should stop oppressing non-Hindi languages by calling them just regional languages, the DMK scion added in his post.

Earlier, In a message on the occasion of "Hindi Diwas", Shah said Hindi unites the diversity of languages in India and it has honoured different Indian as well as global languages and dialects.

The home minister also said Hindi has never competed nor will compete with any other Indian language and that a strong country will emerge only by strengthening all its languages.

"Hindi has been a democratic language. It has honoured different Indian languages and dialects as well as many global languages and adopted their vocabularies, sentences and grammar rules," Shah said.

Udhayanidhi, son of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, had stirred up a storm earlier this month after he allegedly likened Sanatan Dharma to coronavirus, malaria and dengue and said such things should not be opposed but eradicated.

"Few things cannot be opposed, that should be abolished only. We can't oppose Dengue, Mosquitoes, Malaria, or Corona, we have to eradicate this. That's how we have to eradicate Sanatana. Rather opposing Sanatana it should be eradicated, he had said, eliciting sharp reaction from the ruling BJP.
A bodycam footage of a police officer joking about the death of a 23-year-old Indian student after she was struck by a speeding police patrol car earlier this year in Seattle has prompted India to raise the matter strongly with the US authorities for a thorough investigation and action against those guilty in the case.

Jaahnavi Kandula was killed in January after she was struck by a police vehicle driven by Officer Kevin Dave. He was driving 74 mph (more than 119 kmph) on the way to a report of an overdose, the Seattle Times newspaper reported on Monday.



In bodycam footage released on Monday by the Seattle Police Department, Officer Daniel Auderer laughed about the deadly crash and dismissed any implication Dave might be at fault or that a criminal investigation was necessary.



Commenting the reports, the Consulate General of India in San Francisco on Wednesday termed the handling of Kandula's death in a road accident as "deeply troubling".



"We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle & Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington DC for a thorough investigation & action against those involved in this tragic case," the mission said in a post on platform X.



"The Consulate & Embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all concerned authorities," it added.



In the footage, Auderer, the vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, was on a call with the guild's president, Mike Solan. He laughed several times, saying at one point, "Yeah, just write a cheque."



"Eleven thousand dollars. She was 26 anyway," Auderer said in the video, misstating Kandula's age. "She had limited value," he was quoted as saying.

Auderer said that Dave's vehicle had been "going 50" and that "that's not out of control," NBC News reported.



A police investigation report referred to prosecutors for review last month said that Dave had been driving at 74 mph, and Kandula was thrown more than 100 feet after the impact.



"That's not reckless for a trained driver," Auderer said in the video, adding that he doesn't believe "she was thrown 40 feet either," the report said. "But she is dead," he said, laughing and adding, "No, it's a regular person."

Only Auderer's side of the conversation was audible in the bodycam footage.



Meanwhile, Auderer said that he made the comment as a mockery of lawyers, according to KTTH radio station in Seattle. He noted that Solan "lamented" the young woman's death during the two officers' initial conversation, adding that it was unfortunate that her death would "turn into lawyers arguing 'the value of human life.'"

"I responded with something like: 'She's 26 years old. What value is there? Who cares?' I intended the comment as a mockery of lawyers," Auderer was quoted as saying. "I was imitating what a lawyer tasked with negotiating the case would be saying and being sarcastic to express that they shouldn't be coming up with crazy arguments to minimise the payment," he added.



"I laughed at the ridiculousness of how these incidents are litigated and the ridiculousness of how I watched these incidents play out as two parties bargain over a tragedy," the officer said.



According to the report, Auderer acknowledged that anyone listening to the body-camera recording "would rightfully believe I was being insensitive to the loss of human life" and said the comment "was not made with malice or a hard heart."



The Office of Police Accountability confirmed that an investigation had been initiated after the agency received a complaint on August 2 from an employee with the Seattle Police Department.



The oversight agency, which investigates police misconduct and recommends discipline to the police chief, is investigating "the context in which" the statements were made and whether any policies had been violated, the police department said.



Kandula, who hailed from Andhra Pradesh, had been pursuing her master's degree at Northeastern University in Seattle, according to a GoFundMe fundraiser launched to support her family. "The family has nothing to say," her uncle, Ashok Mandula, was quoted as saying in the report.

"Except I wonder if these men's daughters or granddaughters have value. A life is a life," he said.



Meanwhile, another Seattle police oversight organisation, the Community Police Commission, described the audio as heartbreaking and shockingly insensitive. "The people of Seattle deserve better from a police department that is charged with fostering trust with the community and ensuring public safety," it said in a press release.

Especially in light of this video, the hard work toward ensuring that the Seattle Police Department reflects the values of the community it polices, and embraces transparent accountability, will remain a top priority for the Seattle Community Police Commission," it added.


Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar has said that the law enforcement agencies will decide about arresting former premier Nawaz Sharif upon his return to the country from self-imposed exile next month.



Kakar made the remarks during an interview with SAMAA TV on Wednesday when asked about any action against 73-year-old Nawaz upon his arrival in Pakistan.

In February 2020, Nawaz was declared an absconder. Later in the same year, an accountability court declared him a proclaimed offender in the Toshakhana vehicles reference.

The law enforcement agencies (LEAs) will decide this matter in light of the law. If they think he (Nawaz) should be chained then they will adopt that path and vice versa, Kakar said when the host asked whether Nawaz would be handcuffed or not on his return.

He said that the leadership of LEAs would decide the issue of his arrest to the best of their ability.

I reiterate that the leadership of legal and law enforcement agencies is present. Whatever they decide, whether they send him (Nawaz) behind bars or allow freedom of movement, it will be the decision of the leadership of the judicial process and law enforcement, he said.

However, the prime minister said that the government could intervene if it felt that either Nawaz or LEAs were defying the law.

On Tuesday, Nawaz's younger brother and PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif said in London that his brother would return to Pakistan from the UK on October 21 to lead the party's political campaign in the upcoming elections.

Nawaz left for London in November 2019 after the Lahore High Court granted him four-week permission to go abroad for his treatment. But he never returned to Pakistan where he was convicted of corruption and jailed.

He was convicted in the Al-Azizia Mills and Avenfield corruption cases in 2018. He was serving a seven-year imprisonment at Lahore's Kot Lakhpat jail in the Al-Azizia Mills case when he was allowed to proceed to London in 2019 on "medical grounds".

Shehbaz has previously said that Nawaz will be the next prime minister if the party returns to power in the general elections. In 2016, Nawaz stepped down as the prime minister after the Supreme Court disqualified him for life for concealing assets. His appeals against the conviction are currently pending in the relevant courts.

He was disqualified by the Supreme Court in 2017. In 2018, he became ineligible to hold public office for life after a Supreme Court verdict in the Panama Papers case. Nawaz is considered a crowd-puller and a major force to bring voters to the polling stations.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk said Taiwan is an integral part of China. Musk was speaking remotely at the All-in Summit, which took place in Los Angeles this week. (Beijings) policy has been to sort of reunite Taiwan with China, the billionaire said, CNN reported.



From their standpoint, you know, maybe its analogous to like Hawaii or something like that, like an integral part of China that is arbitrarily not part of China mostly because  the US Pacific Fleet has stopped any sort of reunification effort by force, he added.

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs called Musk out on the social media platform X after Musk made the comments. Listen up, Taiwan is not part of the PRC (and0 certainly not for sale! Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu wrote on X on Wednesday.

Taiwan is an independently governed democratic island. China has claimed for long that Taiwan is part of its territory. Musk's comparison of Taiwan with Hawaii is flawed as Hawaii has officially been a US state since 1959. Hawaii isn't a contested region either. Taiwan has held the position that it is its own state for decades.

Musk, in his speech, also said that he expects China's military power in Taiwan would soon bring it back under its rule adding that US involvement in the region is the only reason such a takeover hasn't happened yet.

Joseph Wu also said he hoped Musk can also ask the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) to open X to its people. Several social media platforms, including X, are blocked in China by authorities. Tesla heavily relies on deliveries from the Shanghai facility
Zhao Sheng, China's new ambassador to Afghanistan was welcomed with a lavish ceremony at the presidential palace in Kabul on Wednesday.



In the palace ceremony, Taliban Prime Minister Mohammad Hasan Akhund shook hands with Zhao and accepted the credentials of the new Chinese Ambassador, the prime ministers office said on social media platform X, CNN reported.

Only a handful of countries including Pakistan, Iran and Russia have maintained diplomatic relations with Afghanistan since the Taliban took over the government in August 2021. The Taliban government has not been formally recognised by the US and several other Western leaders. The West has time and again been criticised for violating human rights, particularly the suppression of women's rights under the Taliban's regime.

The Honorable Prime Minister of the Islamic Emirate thanked the leadership of China for the appointment of Mr Zhao Sheng as ambassador and expressed hope that this appointment would elevate the diplomatic relations between the two countries to a higher level and the beginning of a new chapter, Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid told CNN.

Zhao said China fully respects Afghanistans independence, territorial integrity and independence in decision-making. Prime Minister Hasan Akhund expressed his hope for taking more steps to further strengthen the bilateral relations, Mujahid said.

After the Taliban took over the Afghanistan government, China was cautious about potential security challenges in the region, but, since then Chinese officials have stressed increasing cooperation with Afghanistan on issues such as anti-terrorism cooperation, and economic collaboration among others.
Four F-35 fighter jets landed Thursday at an airbase in Denmark in the first installment of the US-made planes ordered by the NATO member to replace its ageing fleet of F-16s, some of which have been promised to Ukraine.

Dignitaries and officers clapped as the planes, in Danish Air Force colours, did several flyovers before landing at the Skyrdstrup Air Base.

Ukraine has been asking for Western fighter jets to help it resist the Russian invasion that began in February 2022. The United States recently gave its approval for Denmark and the Netherlands to provide Ukraine with American-made jets.

Last month, the two countries said they would donate F-16 aircraft to Ukraine, with Denmark pledging 19 and the Netherlands an unspecified number.

Denmark said it would need to receive new F-35s first, and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said in August that she hoped the first six F-16s could be handed over to Ukraine around New Year. NATO member Norway also has indicated its intention to donate F-16s to Ukraine.

Denmark said in June that the training of Ukrainian pilots on F-16 jets had started at the Skrydstrup Air Base, which is about 210 kilometres (130 miles) west of Copenhagen on the Jutland peninsula.

Denmark has ordered a total of 27 F-35 fighter jets for $2.2 billion. They will replace the country's fleet of 30 F-16s, which are more than 40 years old, in a transition that will last through the end of 2025.

Following Thursday's ceremonial arrival, the initial four planes will be formally handed over to Denmark by the US manufacturer Lockheed Martin on October 1.

F-16s have been deployed in countries and regions including the Balkans, Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq, where their operations have included patrolling airspace, dropping bombs and supporting soldiers on the ground. Iceland and Baltic countries also have used them to assert their sovereignty in air policing.
Sambhav Foundation launches an innovative initiative to empower women from vulnerable communities, by engaging corporate employees, with a beauty service experience, in collaboration with Kantar India Foundation



NEW DELHI, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sambhav Foundation, in association with Kantar India Foundation  the CSR arm of Kantar, has been committed to empowering livelihoods via skill development for vulnerable communities. Sambhav Foundation, a not-for-profit building sustainable livelihoods for the underprivileged, has launched its 'on-the-go' Beauty Service Experience for the employees of Kantar, the world's leading marketing data and analytics company, at their office premises in Gurugram.



Sambhav, under its CSR innovations, picks workers from its own skilled ecosystem and connects them with wage opportunities to enable financial independence and empowerment, by providing professional beauty services for women in the workplace. The services will be provided by these women beneficiaries trained under the skill development program. Kantar, being one of the drivers of women employees' welfare, comes forward to facilitate beauty services for its own women employees along with Sambhav. Endorsing this 'Women for Women' initiative, Kantar employees are the first to avail services from the 'on-the-go' Beauty Service program, which also aligns with Kantar India Foundation's objective 'Equipping Women for Life'.



"The primary objective behind the 'on-the-go' concept is to ensure these skilled beauticians are given access to business opportunities. While skilling might empower communities to earn an income, access to market linkages and handholding them till they stabilize their business is important for sustained income growth. That is what the 'on-the-go' experience aims to deliver  connect skills to entrepreneurial opportunities," said Dr. Gayathri Vasudevan, Chairperson, Sambhav Foundation.



"Kantar India Foundation is committed to driving positive change beyond business. Our partnership with Sambhav Foundation is a reflection of our social commitment towards 'Equipping Women for Life'. We are proud and delighted to support the 'On-the-go' Beauty Service, as it gives us the unique opportunity of connecting meaningful social impact with enhanced employee experience," said Rajani Athreya, Senior Director, Insights & Country HR Services, Kantar, South Asia.



Kantar India Foundation and Sambhav Foundation have been running skill training programs in beauty and other trades, for underprivileged women in Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. This beauty service initiative takes this one step further, by enabling wage-earning opportunities for these skilled beauticians. This distinctive initiative culminates in both employee engagement and sustainable livelihoods and is designed to be a unique women empowerment program. The beauty service will not only be a beauty grooming session for Kantar employees but also a firsthand experience of the impact made by the CSR initiative, powered by Kantar India Foundation and Sambhav Foundation.



Kantar employees made appointments to avail the quick services offered and got an insight into the life of these women beneficiaries via interaction. The initiative is organised as a part the of the ongoing festive season and will go on for 5 days exclusively for Kantar Employees at DLF Cyber Park, Gurugram.



Sambhav Foundation also conducts similar wage-improvement programs in several other trades, as a part of its women-centric initiatives.



Write to: info@sambhavfoundation.org



About Sambhav Foundation



Sambhav Foundation, is a not-for-profit organisation that envisions a more equitable future for vulnerable communities, including women, youth, and the intellectually challenged, by empowering them with skills and linking them to sustainable livelihoods via education, employment and entrepreneurship. It also ensures smooth functioning of the other aspects of the social grid like healthcare, educational infrastructure, environment and access to affordable financial services to the community.



Sambhav programs have impacted more than 1 million lives in India, including 13K micro-entrepreneurs incubated, in partnership with 2,000 partners till date. The foundation operates a network of 100+ skilling centres countrywide that offer 85+ vocational training courses.

Visit www.sambhavfoundation.org to learn more.



About Kantar India Foundation



Kantar India Foundation is a CSR initiative of Kantar India built on the pillars of inclusive growth, responsible choices, and building a sustainable future for all. Our overarching mission is centered on the empowerment of women through the 'Equipping Women for Life' initiative, which aims to provide women with the means for sustainable livelihoods, thus catalyzing societal progress and reshaping their roles in the workforce. We actively champion a diverse array of development programs, spanning education, livelihood support, healthcare, and more.

Kantar is the world's leading marketing data and analytics business and an indispensable brand partner to the world's top companies. We combine the most meaningful attitudinal and behavioural data with deep expertise and advanced analytics to uncover how people think and act. We help clients understand what has happened and why and how to shape marketing strategies that shape their future.

Visit www.kantar.com to know more.



Photo 1: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210731/onthegobeautypreneurs.jpg

Photo 2: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210732/onthegoservice_kiosk.jpg



(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

PWR
By integrating with SAP SuccessFactors & SAP Fieldglass, iMocha delivers a comprehensive Skills Intelligence for Total Talent Acquisition to enterprises.



SAN FRANCISCO and PUNE, India, Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- iMocha today announced that its Skills Intelligence for Total Talent Acquisition is now available on the SAP Store, the online marketplace for SAP and partner offerings. iMocha's AI-powered Skills Intelligence Cloud integrates with SAP SuccessFactors and SAP Fieldglass to deliver Total Talent Acquisition solution covering full-time employees as well as contingent workers.



"By partnering with SAP, we are offering a comprehensive Total Talent Acquisition solution that is backed by iMocha's AI-powered Skills Intelligence Cloud and SAP's robust recruiting and external workforce management offerings", said iMocha's Founder & CEO Amit D Mishra. He further added, "Our alliance with SAP will empower hiring teams to engage, assess, interview and hire skill-ready talent faster and better by adopting a Skills-First approach."



The integrated solution helps recruiters, hiring managers, CHROs, and other decision makers to:



- Streamline all their recruitment processes using a centralized workflow



- Leverage an AI-driven talent pool management system that automatically scores candidates based on organisational criteria



- Enhance employer brand with superior candidate experience



- Improve hiring quality with Skills-First candidate screening



- Foster productive interviews & seamless communication



- Make data-driven and intelligent hiring decisions



"Skills and labor shortages are two of the most pressing concerns facing societies and economies today," said Dave Ghosh, EVP and Global Head of Sales for iMocha. "iMocha's Skills Assessment and Skills Intelligence Cloud solution delivers the "Skills-First" approach to solving the talent supply chain and internal talent development challenges for all organizations using the SAP SuccessFactors and SAP Fieldglass platforms. We are excited to partner with SAP and be a part of this powerful partner ecosystem to deliver excellence in successfully deploying the "Skills-First" strategy for organizations while delivering significant win for individuals."



SAP Store, found at store.sap.com, delivers a simplified and connected digital customer experience for finding, trying, buying and renewing more than 2,300 solutions from SAP and its partners. There, customers can find the SAP solutions and SAP-validated solutions they need to grow their business. And for each purchase made through SAP Store, SAP will plant a tree.



iMocha is a partner in the SAP PartnerEdge program. The SAP PartnerEdge program provides the enablement tools, benefits and support to facilitate building high-quality, disruptive applications focused on specific business needs  quickly and cost-effectively.



About iMocha:



iMocha is an AI-powered Skills Intelligence Cloud that helps enterprises to build a Skills-First and data-driven ecosystem of hiring, upskilling, and managing talent - at scale, for any job role, and any industry. More than 500 organisations in 70+ countries are using iMocha's solution for taking a Skills-First approach to accelerated hiring, objective learning and development programs and to manage talent from candidate to alumni. Enterprises from IT/ITeS, Telecom, Banking, Financial and Insurance and Engineering are using iMocha's Skills platform to make data driven talent decisions.



The platform leverages patented technologies and includes innovative features to build employee skills profile, organisational skills inventory, skills taxonomy and skills ontology, skill benchmarking and skills analytics that helps to hire, develop and manage talent by taking a Skills-First approach.



For more about iMocha, visit www.imocha.io



SAP and other SAP products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of SAP SE in Germany and other countries. Please see https://www.sap.com/copyright for additional trademark information and notices. All other product and service names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective companies.



Contact:

Krishna Kumar N

krishna@imocha.io



Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2209734/iMochaSAPStore.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2209786/iMochaNEWLogo.jpg



(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

PWR
Mumbai, Sep 14 (PTI) Reserve Bank of India on Thursday said 15 large NBFCs, including LIC Housing Finance, Bajaj Finance, Shriram Finance and Tata Sons, will be subject to enhanced regulatory requirements.

The central bank has categorised NBFCs into Base Layer (NBFC-BL), Middle Layer (NBFC-ML), Upper Layer (NBFC-UL) and Top Layer (NBFC-TL).

A list of 15 large Non Banking Finance Companies (NBFCs) falling in the Upper Layer category has been released.

Besides LIC Housing Finance, Bajaj Finance, Shriram Finance and Tata Sons, others in the list include L&T Finance, Piramal Capital & Housing Finance, Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company.

Indiabulls Housing Finance, Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services, Tata Capital Financial Services, PNB Housing Finance, HDB Financial Services, Aditya Birla Finance, Muthoot Finance and Bajaj Housing Finance are also part of the list.

According to RBI, despite qualifying for identification as NBFC-UL as per scoring methodology, TMF Business Services Ltd (formerly Tata Motors Finance Limited) is not being included in the list of NBFC-UL in the current review due to its ongoing business reorganisation.

There is a prescribed methodology to identify the NBFCs in the Upper Layer as per their asset size and scoring methodology.

In terms of the 'Scale Based Regulation (SBR): A Revised Regulatory Framework for NBFCs' issued in October 2021, once an NBFC is classified as NBFC-UL, it will be subject to enhanced regulatory requirement. This will be for at least for a period of five years from its classification in the layer, even in case it does not meet the parametric criteria in the subsequent year/s.
Premier Li Qiang of the State Council will attend the opening ceremony of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit to be held in Nanning, Guangxi on September 17 and deliver remarks.

Foreign leaders and senior officials including Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Laotian Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Indonesias Vice President Maruf Amin, and Thailands Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, and ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn will attend the opening ceremony of the Expo.

CCTV: Could you share Chinas expectation for the 20th China-ASEAN Expo and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit?

Mao Ning: This year marks the 10th anniversary of the proposal of building a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future and the Belt and Road Initiative put forward by President Xi Jinping, and the 20th anniversary of Chinas accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia. China-ASEAN economic and trade cooperation has been growing steadily. China has been ASEANs largest trading partner for 14 consecutive years, and both sides have been each others largest trading partners for three years in a row. In 2022, China-ASEAN trade exceeded USD 970 billion, up by 11.2 percent year-on-year. By July this year, the accumulated two-way investment between China and ASEAN countries has exceeded USD 380 billion. At the recent leaders meetings on East Asia cooperation, Premier Li Qiang and leaders of ASEAN countries reached important common understandings on deepening China-ASEAN cooperation on all fronts and jointly building a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful and amicable home.

The China-ASEAN Expo is a key platform for deepening China-ASEAN cooperation and promoting regional economic integration. As we mark its 20th anniversary, this years Expo is themed Work Together for a Harmonious Home and a Shared FuturePromoting High-Quality Development of the Belt and Road and Building an Epicentrum of Growth. China hopes that this event will be an opportunity for all sides to explore opportunities, meet challenges and pursue cooperation. We will work for the high-quality implementation of RCEP, promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation between China and ASEAN, improve regional connectivity, build an open regional economy, and promote the building of an even closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future.

China News Service: According to reports, Indonesian President Joko Widodo took a ride on the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway on September 13 and spoke highly of Chinas rich experience and advanced technology in high-speed railway construction. He described the ride as fast, quiet and smooth and expressed the hope that the high-speed railway will reduce traffic congestion and pollution in Jakarta and encourage the Indonesian people to embrace a new mode of transportation. Whats Chinas comment?

Mao Ning: The Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway, a flagship project under Belt and Road cooperation between China and Indonesia, has all along received the personal attention of the two presidents. This high-speed railway, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, is the first overseas Chinese high-speed railway project with its entire system, production factors and industrial chain supplied by China. It also stands as a stellar example of China and regional countries jointly pursuing modernization by following the principle of wide consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits. It will surely give a strong boost to regional connectivity. We have noted President Joko Widodos test ride and positive comments. We hope and believe that the high-speed railway, once in operation, will help ease transportation for the Indonesian people and unleash local potential for economic development.

Global Times: Recently, we have seen some media coverage of online data leaks involving a large amount of personal information. A World Economic Forum report released at the beginning of this year named widespread cybercrime and cyber insecurity among the 10 most severe global risks over the next decade. Do you have any comment?

Mao Ning: The Chinese government attaches great importance to cyber and data security. A series of laws and regulations have been rolled out to reinforce protection of personal information. We are now in the 2023 China Cybersecurity Week. Having this week in itself demonstrates the emphasis the Chinese government places on strengthening cybersecurity and enhancing public awareness on this issue.

Cybersecurity is a global issue that calls for a concerted response. Safeguarding cybersecurity is the common responsibility of all countries. China is a staunch defender of cybersecurity. We put forward the Global Initiative on Data Security, contributing Chinas ideas to global digital governance. We stand ready to continue working with the international community to foster a cyberspace featuring peace, security, openness, cooperation and order.

Prensa Latina: Tomorrow begins in Cuba the summit of the G77 and China. What expectation do you have about this? What points will China promote at the summit?

Mao Ning: The Group of 77 and China is a mechanism for cooperation among developing countries. It upholds international fairness and justice and safeguards the common rights and interests of developing countries. China appreciates the work of Cuba as the rotating chair for 2023, and supports Cuba in hosting the Group of 77 and China Havana Summit. We look forward to positive contribution of the summit to greater solidarity, closer cooperation and joint response to challenges among developing countries. China stands ready to work with Cuba and other members of the Group of 77 to better safeguard the common rights and interests of developing countries.

AFP: The EU announced yesterday that its launching an investigation into subsidies that China provides to electric vehicle makers. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that this will help protect European industries from unfair competition. Whats your response?

Mao Ning: The spokesperson of Chinas Ministry of Commerce has responded to this and you may refer to it.

CRI: We have noted that an awarding ceremony was held in Beijing yesterday for the My Dream Painting Competition for African Youth. Do you have more information on the event?

Mao Ning: The beautiful encounter between African youth and Chinas space program adds another episode of friendly exchanges between China and Africa. In March this year, the Secretariat of the Chinese Follow-up Committee of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the China Manned Space Engineering Office, and Chinese embassies and consulates in Africa co-hosted a painting competition on the theme of My Dream for African youth. More than 2,000 African youth submitted their paintings. In May, 10 awarded entries were brought to Chinas Tiangong space station by the Shenzhou-16 spacecraft. At last nights awarding ceremony, precious footage of the Tiangong exhibition featuring paintings by African youth was released for the first time. Shenzhou-16 astronauts encouraged African youth to chase their dream, work hard and enjoy the wonders of life.

To explore the mysteries of the vast universe and develop space technologies is a mission for all mankind. Going forward, we look forward to working together with more like-minded partners to build the Tiangong space station into a home in space for all mankind.

Bloomberg: Russian media has reported that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will hold talks with Chinas Wang Yi on September 18. Could the foreign ministry confirm this? In addition, Russian media has also reported that the two will discuss in detail the Ukrainian crisis and the situation in the Asia-Pacific. Does the foreign ministry have any comment?

Mao Ning: China and Russia have been in close communication on bilateral ties and international and regional issues. Please stay tuned for updates.

AFP: Can you offer more information about Venezuelan President Maduros visit to China?

Mao Ning: The visit by Venezuelan President Maduro has yielded fruitful results. The two sides issued the Joint Statement between the Peoples Republic of China and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on the Establishment of the All-Weather Strategic Partnership, signed dozens of cooperation agreements, and reached consensus on Belt and Road cooperation and closer partnership in such areas as economy and trade, education, tourism, space, civil aviation, sci-tech and media. China will, as always, support Venezuelas efforts to safeguard its sovereignty and social stability, as well as its just cause of opposing foreign interference. We believe this visit will provide strong impetus for the development of bilateral ties and cooperation at a higher level and in more areas, and bring more benefits to the two peoples.
On January 8, 2023, in scenes reminiscent of the storming of the U.S. Capitol two years earlier, Brazils Supreme Court was invaded by a violent mob of supporters of outgoing president Jair Bolsonaro. Waving the national flag, the protestors also took over Congress and the presidential Palacio do Planalto in Brasilia, in the most serious attack against Brazilian democracy since the military dictatorship (1964-1985). On Wednesday, the Supreme Court convened to hold the first trial against the coup plotters. Proceedings started with four defendants arrested in flagrante delicto on January 8, part of the Bolsonarista shock troops on that day. The prosecution accuses them of an attempted coup detat against the leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who had been in power for a week at the time. They attempted to depose a legitimately elected government under the pretext of electoral fraud, said Deputy Attorney General Carlos Frederico Santos, in his opening statement. The four defendants face sentences totaling up to 30 years in prison and fines for moral damages of 100 million reais ($20 million) if found guilty.

Around 1,300 people have been charged in the Supreme Court macro-case, which is advancing at breakneck speed. In a country where the rights of the accused enjoy considerable protection, almost 130 people have already been imprisoned for eight months for the January 8 assault.

The Prosecutors Office and the investigating judge in the case, Alexandre de Moraes, have made it clear that they intend to impose exemplary sentences on the most violent protestors among the mob with a view to dissuading any further attacks on Brazilian democracy. We want to show the world that Brazil is no longer a banana republic, that it is a state that takes the rule of law seriously, that coups detat are a closed page in our history, said Santos, who added that fake news is still circulating and we have to clarify [what happened] once and for all.

The defendants in this first trial  an IT civil servant, a forestry engineer, and two deliverymen  were not in the courtroom Wednesday. They are aged between 24 and 52 and come from cities in the states of Sao Paulo and Parana. The crimes they are charged with, like hundreds more of the defendants, are violent abolition of the rule of law, coup detat, armed criminal association and damage to property. Three of the defendants followed the trial by videoconference from prison; the fourth, who was bailed, asked to be present in court, but the request was denied.

Former president Bolsonaro, who was in the U.S. on January 8, is also being investigated as an alleged instigator. The attacks were the culmination of a systematic campaign by Bolsonarismo to delegitimize the institutions, question the electoral process and sow doubts about Lulas victory at the ballots.

During the trial, videos were shown that the first defendant, 51-year-old Aecio Lucio Costa Pereira, recorded that day, wearing a T-shirt with the slogan federal military intervention and announcing that he would defecate in Congress. He had arrived in Brasilia from Sao Paulo with a group of so-called patriots. Other images of the assault were presented, including some recorded in the same courtroom on January 7, when a crowd of Bolsonaristas rampaged through the Supreme Court, which suffered significant material damage.

The opening session was marked by the dialectic exchanges between Judge Moraes and Pereiras defense lawyer, who stated that the proceedings are a political trial and described the court as illegitimate. Additionally, perfectly aware that the hearing is being broadcast live on television, he stressed that his client has been imprisoned for eight months without being able to see his wife and children because prison rules require a Covid-19 vaccination certificate and they have chosen not to receive the shot. I consider it psychological torture, the lawyer said.

Supporters of the former president of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro, during the January 8 attempted coup in Brasilia. Joedson Alves (Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

A multitudinous crime

Moraes resorted to irony to counter the defenses claim that Pereira was peacefully defending his freedom. We are talking about coup plotters, the judge said. Because in that denialist narrative, it seems that on January 8 we had a Sunday in the park with a crowd that suddenly said: Lets do a bit of invading! Famous for the superpowers he has been granted in the name of defending democracy and for his sheriff-like methods, Moraes is intent on neutralizing the risk of Brazilian democracy coming under further attack.

As the deliberations of the Supreme Court are public, the votes of the first two magistrates made it clear that there is no unanimity in the court over the severity of the sentence. Moraes has asked for 17 years for the first defendant, while one of his colleagues sought only 2.5 years for damage to patrimony while absolving him of the coup charges. The session will continue Thursday with the remaining votes to be cast.

The trials have begun with those accused of carrying out the coup attempt on the ground: ordinary citizens, intoxicated by an overdose of falsehoods, many of which were churned out by the ultra-right Bolsonaro. Later in the macro-trial, the idea is that those who contributed to the uprising without getting their hands dirty will also sit in the dock: the masterminds, the financiers, and the authorities who neglected their duties. Recently, the entire leadership of the Brasilia military police was arrested and imprisoned. Anderson Torres, who was Bolsonaros Minister of Justice, remains on probation.

After Lulas victory was made official on October 30, thousands of Bolsonaro supporters camped outside barracks all over Brazil, demanding the military intervene to prevent a third term for the leftist politician.

During the tense months of the electoral campaign and the failed coup, Morares was handed enormous powers to tie up the most extreme wing of Bolsonaro supporters in the name of the defense of democracy. His trajectory is reminiscent to that of Judge Sergio Moro, who oversaw the vast Lava Jato corruption case. Moro was considered the savior of Brazil before falling from grace. He now occupies a seat in the Senate.

Moraes and the prosecution have tried to rebut the defense, which argues that the charges do not individualize what exactly each of the hundreds of people involved did on January 8. It was a multitudinous crime. The important thing is not who broke a window, a door, or a work of art, but the result of those multitudinous acts, said Santos.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
New Delhi, Sep 14 (PTI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday said the state was eyeing Rs 2.5 lakh crore in investments during the Uttarakhand Global Investor Summit to be held here in December.

Dhami, addressing a curtain raiser event here, said he will participate in roadshows in London, Singapore, Taiwan, Dubai and Abu Dhabi in September-October to attract investors to the state.

The Uttarakhand Global Investor Summit is scheduled to be held in New Delhi on December 8-9.

Dhami said the Uttarakhand government was implementing special policies for encouraging investments in the state and was also looking at attractive financial incentives to promote investment in various sectors of the state.

The Chief Minister said at present a land bank of about 6,000 acres is available in Uttarakhand for setting up industries in various sectors. There has been continuous improvement in rail, road and air connectivity in the state.

Direct air service is available from the Dehradun Airport to various cities, he said, adding that the Dehradun and Pantnagar airport were also being expanded.

As part of the development and upgrade of the railway network, construction work of the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag railway line is in progress, the chief minister said.

Construction work of an all-weather road to facilitate the Char-Dham Yatra was also in progress, he said.

Dhami said Mahindra Holidays and Resorts India Ltd, E-Kuber and ITC have signed Memoranda of Understanding to invest up to Rs 7,500 crore in the state.
Bangkok, Sep 14 (AP) Thailand's new government on Wednesday approved a measure granting temporary visa-free entry to Chinese tourists, signalling that the recovery of the country's tourism industry is a top economic priority.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said the visa exemption, which will also apply to visitors from the Central Asian nation of Kazakhstan, will be effective from September 25 until February 29 next year. He said the relevant authorities had been consulted to ensure they are ready to handle the expected surge in travellers.

China more than a decade ago became a major source of tourists to Thailand, with almost 11 million visitors in 2019, accounting for 27.6 per cent of all arrivals the year before the coronavirus pandemic devastated the tourist market.

The government proposed the measure due to concerns that the number of Chinese tourists this year might not reach the initial target of 5 million due to strict visa requirements. The Tourism Authority of Thailand reported that around 1.4 million Chinese tourists came in the first six months of this year.

Thailand's economy slumped during the pandemic as its huge tourism industry virtually collapsed. The country received about 40 million international visitors in 2019 who the government estimated generated 1.9 trillion baht (USD 53.2 billion) in revenue, an amount that plummeted by more than 99 per cent by 2021, according to data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

Chai Wacharonke, a spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister, said Thailand received 15 million international visitors in the first seven months of this year. He said the government aims to draw 28 million international visitors and generate 1.4 trillion baht (USD 39.2 billion) in tourism revenue in 2023.

Chai praised the visa exemption scheme, saying the tourism industry is the only economic machine remaining that can be driven with hope to generate new income quickly for Thailand.

Besides the visa exemption, other measures the Cabinet approved included a reduction in electricity fees and diesel prices, as well as a three-year debt relief programme for farmers, to address the higher cost of living and other economic woes. (AP) PY

PY
Colombo, Sep 14 (PTI) The IMF on Thursday started conducting the first review of its USD 2.9 billion bailout package for crisis-hit Sri Lanka during which it will have to convince the global lender that it has fulfilled conditions set by it under the programme to revive the island nation's economy.

Sri Lanka was hit by its worst economic crisis in history when the country's foreign exchange reserves fell to a critical low and the public came out on the streets to protest the shortage of fuel, fertilisers and essential commodities.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) review team, which arrived here on Wednesday, would remain in the country till September 27, officials said.

The first review of the IMF's bailout package has got underway, State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe said.

We are collaborating closely with the IMF team throughout this process to overcome the challenges ahead of us," Semasinghe posted on platform X.

In March, the IMF extended its first tranche of the USD 2.9 billion bailout.

Semasinghe said the second tranche should be made available at the end of the review.

Sri Lanka approached the IMF for its 16th facility, having declared bankruptcy in April 2022.

The island nation announced its first-ever sovereign default since gaining independence from Britain in 1948.

After months of negotiations, the government and the international lender reached an agreement which culminated in the bailout approval last March.

The facility was approved subject to stringent reforms which the government say they have implemented.

The forex crisis which forced the default of USD 85 billion left the country short of funds to finance its imports.

Support worth USD 4 billion from India paid for imports of fuel and essentials as large street protests held over several months turned into a political crisis.

Former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa resigned and fled the country in mid-July as tens of thousands stormed his office and residence in angry protests over his inability to tackle the worst economic crisis.
Amritsar/Jalandhar, Sep 14 (PTI) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday exhorted industrialists to set up their units in rural areas of the state, saying it will also help generate employment for youth.

Mann said that it will serve the twin motives as it will give impetus to industrial development on one hand and open new vistas of employment for rural youth on the other.

He also announced to give impetus to industrialisation in the border districts of the state.

Interacting with the industrialists during town hall meetings in Amritsar and Jalandhar, Mann said the state government is committed to ensure the holistic development of the industry in the border region.

Mann, in the presence of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, also said that no stone will be left unturned in facilitating the industry in the state.

He said the AAP government is fully committed to accelerate industrialist development in Punjab.

The state government will set up a convention centre at Jalandhar, near the airport and railway station so that industrialists are facilitated, he noted.

The state government will ensure judicious use of canal water for the industrial units on the lines of water being provided to the farmers for agriculture purposes.

Mann said that this will facilitate the industry in its smooth working and facilitation.

The state government is working on a policy to utilise the CSR funds for the development of industrial focal points. Likewise, he said that police posts are being created in focal points and industrial areas for law and order purposes.

Making a scathing attack on the opposition parties, Mann said that those who were living in palatial houses during their heydays of power had been ousted from the political scene.

The state has witnessed the dawn of a new era as these people who were considered invincible have been shown the door by the people. For the first time, people-centric decisions have acquired centre stage in the process of governance, he said.

Mann and Kejriwal said that during the previous regimes, industrialists used to be scared to become successful as the leaders under previous governments used to harass them.

The Delhi Chief Minister said that there was a time when industrialists were leaving the state amid fear of being harassed, but now the Mann government is providing a congenial atmosphere and is committed to making Punjab a hub of industry in the country.

Mann said the state government will construct exclusive sub-stations for providing power to the industry. It will go a long way in giving much-needed impetus to the industry in the state

Kejriwal said that there were 882 steel foundry units in Amritsar in the past but now only 126 units are operating due to the apathy of previous state governments.

The Delhi chief minister promised that the Punjab government will take this number to 2,000 industries with its industry-friendly policies.

He also said that Punjab has huge potential and can even leave behind China in the sphere of manufacturing.

Punjabis are born entrepreneurs, said Kejriwal.

He pointed out that the reforms brought in the industrial sector by the Mann government helped businesses to flourish and move forward with ease, as he cited the introduction of the "green stamp paper" in this regard, saying it has all the required clearances needed for setting up the industry and "this is the best single window system in the country".

Mann said that during the past 18 months, investment worth Rs 50,840 crore has been roped in for the state.

Tata Steel has made the biggest investment in the state after Jamshedpur, he said, adding that other companies like Jindal Steel, Virbio, Class and others are making investments in the state.

Many industrialists at the event said that some concerns and issues they raised have been promptly resolved or assurance has been given by authorities that these will be resolved at the earliest.

Mann said that he is committed to the inclusive development of the holy city Amritsar, and roads leading to Sri Darbar Sahib will also be repaired on priority.
Mumbai, Sep 14 (PTI) Filmmaker Shyam Benegal on Thursday said he is honoured to narrate the story of Bangladesh's founding father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman through his film "Mujib - The Making of a Nation".

A Bangladesh-India co-production, "Mujib - The Making of a Nation" was screened at 48th annual Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on Wednesday evening.

The upcoming biographical drama narrates the life story of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the first president of Bangladesh and later its prime minister who was assassinated with most of his family in 1975.

Benegal, 88, who was unable to attend the screening, said he was happy to present "Mujib - The Making of a Nation" at the prestigious festival.

"Delighted to be unveiling the film at this prestigious festival. I'm sure the story of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and his journey to create the Nation of Bangladesh will echo with the people and communities across the globe. It has been an honour to be able to tell this inspiring story of the making of a nation," the veteran filmmaker said in a statement.

"Mujib - The Making of a Nation" is a collaboration between India's National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC).

Dr Hasan Mahmud, minister of Information & Broadcasting of Bangladesh, said he was brimming with emotions at the screening of the film inspired by the life of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, popularly known as 'Bangabandhu', under whose leadership Bangladesh attained freedom in 1971.

"I'm grateful to the team from both countries for being able to portray his journey, his unfathomable love and supreme sacrifice for the country and its people. Mr Shyam Benegal is missed immensely as he's not present for the screening," Mahmud said.

Bangladeshi actor Arifin Shuvoo plays the title role in the film, which also stars Nusrat Imrose and Nusrat Faria in the roles of his wife Renu and Sheikh Hasina, their daughter and the current Prime Minister of Bangladesh, respectively.

Shuvoo, who attended the TIFF screening of "Mujib - The Making of a Nation", said it was a great experience to view the film alongside the festival crowd.

"The research, the detailing to look like Mujib is seen on screen. I may not be able to put it in words what a feeling it is to see the film with an audience. It is an honour to play Bangabandhu in this magnificent biopic and to be here to see the response myself. May Mujib continue to touch our hearts and inspire the world the way he always did," he said.
Mumbai, Sep 14 (PTI) Hindi stories and poems have started gaining popularity in mainstream storytelling in Bollywood and streaming shows, believe actors Vijay Varma and Pankaj Tripathi on the occasion of Hindi Diwas on Thursday.

Hindi poet Badri Narayans Prem Patra was a scene-stealer of sorts when it played during a crucial moment in the Prime Video series "Dahaad" in which Varma played a Hindi teacher who moonlights as a serial killer.

In the same show, poem Machli, by Damyanti Bali, is painted on one of the doors of the van driven by Varmas character.

One of his other shows "KaalKoot" featured Tigmanshu Dhulia as Varma's professor-poet father. The actor once again got to recite a Hindi poem.

"In one year, Ive had two projects, where my character recites poetry. I believe things are changing. I felt very good that I got to play a Hindi literature teacher in 'Dahaad'. When my character had to recite a Hindi poem, I prepared for it.

"I felt it is a poem about prem ras but in the show, the poetry recitation comes at a time when something horrible is happening. So, I recited it in a different way, and that connected well, the 37-year-old actor added.

Tripathi noted that new age screenwriters in the film business have an awareness about Hindi literature and are shrewdly figuring out how to incorporate it into their narratives.

"The young writers are very well read, be it Amar Kaushik, Sumit Arora and a few others. All the young writers have read literature, the actor told PTI.

In fact, Arora was behind the 'Prem Patra' moment in "Dahaad", the series by Reema Kagti and Zoya Akhtar. He also introduced Wasim Barelvi's lines to promote one of the songs from Shah Rukh Khan-starrer "Jawan".

In a recent interview with PTI, Arora had cited well-known writers such as Harishankar Parsai, Sharad Joshi, Ravindranatha Tyagi, Shrilal Shukla and Manohar Shyam Joshi as his childhood influences.

"I studied in a Hindi medium school. I didnt know how to speak in English. My mother gave me the habit of reading from an early age, I used to read stories from (magazines) Nandan, then I graduated to literary magazines like Hans, Gyanodaya, and others.

"By the age of 17 and 18, I had columns published in Hindi newspapers. Satire was my forte, Arora, a Hindi literature graduate, said.

Tripathi, an ardent lover of rich Indian literature, recently opened a library in his village as a tribute to his late father. The National Award winner believes actors should give importance to literary texts.

"We benefit from it (Hindi literature) in storytelling. Like, when we read literature, we will be introduced to so many different things from across the world. The aim of literature is to evoke compassion, sympathy, and different human emotions in a reader.

"As an actor, it is important to read literature for your growth. Writers and directors have to read it, but I believe even for actors, it is important to read and understand poetry and literature. I do it, he said.

Varma, who played a cop in the JioCinema series KaalKoot, believes poetry is the finest method to generate emotions.

In Kaal Koot, my father was a professor and a poet, so I had the opportunity to read his poems in the show. Theres a poem, which is a love letter from his late father for his mother, it is a very personal thing. I believe theres a lot of impact in poetry, like you can evoke so many emotions. I believe there should be scope for many more poems (in pop-culture), he added.

According to Varma, Hindi literature played a huge role when he was starting out as a theatre artist in Hyderabad.

I started my career with theatre, there our teachers would emphasise more on literature, it was rather believed that If you are not good at literature, then you cant become a good actor.

In many parts of the country, speaking English is seen as a status symbol and actor Richa Chadha said she finds it strange that people don't like to talk in Hindi.

It is important to know English or any language, like French, German, or Spanish, but I dont understand why people in Mumbai dont talk much in Hindi. Like, there are people in Mumbai, who often say that, We talk to our maid and driver in Hindi, and with our kids in English. I feel very angry about it. If you speak in Hindi that doesnt mean you dont know English, the 36-year-old actor told PTI.

Jo bhi samaj apni bhasha, apni pehchan ko chodega woh kahi na kahi directionless ho jayega (Any society that abandons its language and identity is bound to be directionless), she added.
New Delhi, Sep 14 (PTI) The 16 edition of the Rajasthan International Folk Festival, popularly known as Jodhpur RIFF, will be held from October 27 to 30, the organisers have announced.

The four-day music festival will take place at Jodhpurs magnificent Mehrangarh Fort and showcase the best of Indian and global roots music, dance, and collaborations between amazing artists, a press release said.

Every year, we see folk artists amaze us with their talent and skill. And we remain deeply impressed by the regard they have for their heritage and their willingness to pass on this priceless oral legacy to their heirs, Maharaja Gaj Singh II, the chief patron of the festival, said in a statement.

We are very happy to provide a platform like Jodhpur RIFF to these incredible artists so they may rightly be recognised and celebrated for their artistry and exemplary musicianship," he added.

Jodhpur RIFF 2023 has placed a special focus on Rajasthans percussion instruments  the dholak, bhapang and khartal.

"With star studded performances and insightful interactive sessions, audiences will be introduced to these lesser-known treasures from the world of Indian roots music," the release said.

The festival will see performances by legendary vocal quartet Sharma Bandhu, extremely popular for their bhajans and renditions of Nirguni poetry, renowned Carnatic vocalist Mahesh Vinayakram, Estonian group Kuula Hetke, Italian music trio Suonno D'Ajere and Jasser Haj Youssef, a master musician of the Aga Khan Music Program, among others.

In accordance with its mission of introducing Rajasthans rich folk music to audiences of all ages, Jodhpur RIFF will continue its tradition of the Bal Mela where children from schools across Jodhpur are invited to the colourfully decorated environs of Veer Durga Das Memorial Park, according to the release.

The grand finale of the festival will see a grand jam by three artists -- rhythm innovator Miroca Paris, and Australian percussionist Greg Sheehan, supported by Bombay Brasss saxophonist Rhys Sebastian.
Washington, Sep 14 (PTI) A Korean man accused of fatally stabbing his Indian-origin roommate at Purdue University in the US state of Indiana has been found competent to stand trial, according to media reports.

Ji Min Sha, who was charged with murder in the death of 20-year-old Varun Manish Chheda, of Indianapolis, in October 2022, was previously found incompetent to stand trial in April by a Tippecanoe County judge.

In his April order, Tippecanoe Circuit Court Judge Sean M Persin wrote that Sha has reported hallucinations and has experienced chronic psychosis and delusional thoughts while in jail.

According to a September 12 court filing, doctors at Logansport State Hospital found Sha competent to stand trial after months of treatment, WTHR, a television station in Indianapolis, reported.

Sha "has attained the ability to understand the proceedings and assist in the preparation of his defence," Logansport State Hospital Superintendent Bethany Schoenradt wrote in a letter to the judge.

The judge has directed the Tippecanoe County Sheriff's Office to transport Sha back to the county jail.

A status conference in the case has been scheduled for September 29.

Sha and Chheda lived in McCutcheon Hall on Purdue Universitys West Lafayette campus.

Prosecutors allege that Sha stabbed Chheda several times in the head and neck with a folding knife that officers found on the floor near the chair where Chhedas body was discovered.

Purdue Police Chief Lesley Wiete said Sha called police early on October 5, 2022, and told them his roommate was dead in their dorm room.

Officers who arrested Sha found him wearing clothes with blood on them, prosecutors have said. An autopsy found that Chheda had died of multiple sharp-force traumatic injuries.

If convicted, Sha could face 45 to 60 years in prison, WFIU, an Indiana-based public radio station, reported.
Peshawar, Sep 14 (PTI) At least 11 people, including a top religious leader and politician, were injured in a bomb attack in the Mastung district of Pakistan's restive Balochistan province on Thursday, police said.

The bomb attack is suspected to have targeted the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) leader, Hafiz Hamdullah, who along with other party workers including his bodyguards were travelling from Quetta to Kalat in a coaster when the blast took place near Mastung town.

JUI-F spokesperson Aslam Ghauri said that Hamdullah was injured but not critically.

Local administration officials said it was not clear whether it was a suicide attack or a planted bomb blast.

Mastung Assistant Commissioner Ataullah Memon confirmed that 11 people were injured and were shifted to Quetta for medical treatment.

Balochistan Interim Home Minister Zubair Jamali said JUI (F) leaders have also been targeted in the past in Balochistan by separatist groups and militants.

A senior police official said they suspected the involvement of the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) in the attack.

The ISKP in the past has targeted JUI (F) leaders because of their close ties to the Taliban in Afghanistan.

Hafiz Hamdullah has been a controversial and conservative Islamist figure in Pakistan politics.

He has caused controversies with his statements on women's rights, and freedom of speech and has also used abusive language against a female anchor and analyst on national television.
Washington, Sep 14 (AP) The United States should use its influence to help win the freedom of a Russian-Israeli academic at Princeton University who went missing in Iraq nearly six months ago and is believed to be held by an Iran-backed militia regarded by Washington as a terrorist group, her sister said on Wednesday.

The current level of pressure is unsatisfactory. It's just not enough, Emma Tsurkov said in an interview with The Associated Press. My sister is languishing at the hands of this terror organisation. And it's been almost six months.

Elizabeth Tsurkov, a 36-year-old doctoral student whose work focuses on the Middle East and specifically Syria and Iraq, disappeared in Baghdad, the Iraqi capital, in March while doing research.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has said she is being held by the Shiite group Kataeb Hezbollah or Hezbollah Brigades, whose leader and founder died in the American airstrike in January 2020 that also killed Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the commander of Iran's elite Quds Force and the architect of Tehran's regional military alliances. The Hezbollah group has close ties to the Iraqi government.

Emma Tsurkov is working to draw attention to her sister's fate, meeting in Washington this week with the State Department and Israeli and Russian government officials.

She had hoped to have a separate meeting at the Iraqi Embassy but said officials there blew me off. The embassy did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

I really never wanted to do any of this. But I realized that everyone is interested but no one is going to do anything to actually bring her home, said Emma Tsurkov, 35, a sociology researcher at Stanford University. And everyone is just hoping that someone else does, passing the buck. But at the end of the day, I don't see anything being done to bring my sister back.

Elizabeth Tsurkov is not a US citizen, limiting the tools at the American government's disposal and the direct ability of Washington officials to secure her release. But Emma Tsurkov contends that the US government still has substantial influence given that her sister has significant US ties as a graduate student in an American institution that is approved and funded for research".

She said she made the case to a State Department official during a meeting on Monday that the US government's massive financial support to Iraq gives it leverage it should use. Washington gives significant military aid to Iraq as part of a shared interest in ensuring the country's security, confronting the Islamic State group and preventing Iran from gaining more influence in the country.

Central to the anti-IS efforts are the Popular Mobilisation Forces, an umbrella group for a number of Iran-backed militias, including Kataeb Hezbollah, the group believed to have kidnapped Tsurkov.

A State Department spokesman had no immediate response to the Tsurkov case when asked about it at a briefing on Wednesday.

Emma Tsurkov is also set to meet this week with officials at Princeton, which she says has not been vocal enough in its support of her sister.

In a statement, Princeton spokesman Michael Hotchkiss said the university was deeply concerned about Elizabeth Tsurkov's well-being and called her a valued member of the University community.

He said that after learning of her disappearance, the school immediately communicated with US and Israeli government officials.

Elizabeth's family subsequently asked that the University not involve government officials in the interest of keeping the matter private, he said. Once the situation became public, the University has and continues to communicate with relevant government officials and experts to understand how we can best support Elizabeth's safe return to her family and her studies at Princeton.

The sisters, daughters of dissidents, were born a year apart in the former Soviet Union and moved with their family as young girls to Israel. They are so closely connected that they texted daily while Elizabeth Tsurkov was in Baghdad. Emma Tsurkov said she knew something was amiss because her sister would always quickly respond to text message photographs of her son, Elizabeth Tsurkov's only nephew.

She didn't respond. And I get worried after a few hours, but then when it reached 12 hours, I knew something must be wrong," she said. There is no way that she would be okay, and not respond to that.

Elizabeth Tsurkov's last post on Twitter, now known as X, was on March 21, when she recirculated a photograph of pro-Kurdistan protesters in Syria. Emma Tsurkov said it was her understanding that her sister went to a coffee shop in Baghdad's central neighbourhood of Karradah, days after having spinal cord surgery, and did not return.

Now, she said, the sisters are facing the prospect of being apart during Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year and a holiday the family always commemorated together.

This is, she said, the type of nightmare I wish on no one. (AP) PY

PY
Rancher Jesus Ledesma next to one of his cows that died from Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD). Emilio Fraile

The first case of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) in Europe was detected in November 2022. Since then, it has become a threat to cattle ranchers like Marcelo Mozo in Zamora (northwest Spain). This virus spreads via an insect that is not common in Spain. However, climate change and international animal shipments have facilitated the spread of these disease vectors. EHD does not affect people or meat, but it poses a critical threat for livestock as there is no vaccine available  infected cattle must be slaughtered. Farmers and experts compare EHD to Covid-19 due to its multifaceted impact on ruminants and the difficulty of preventing contagion. Spains Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock and regional government officials issued warnings about this risk after dozens of outbreaks and animal deaths were reported. To prevent the spread of EHD, animals and vehicles must be disinfected before they can move from affected areas to EHD-free areas.

For the past three weeks, ranchers in Zamora have been dealing with a severe outbreak spreading north from southern Spain. Agricultural engineer and livestock rancher Fernando Vicente stressed the gravity of the situation, saying he watched tough ranchers break down in tears. Animals are dying constantly  weve gone from collecting four carcasses a day to over thirty, said Vicente, who hopes government officials will step up and send veterinarians to help. Its like Covid  it affects each animal differently. Weve never seen anything like this.

Vicente showed us a sick cow that had dropped over 300 pounds (150 kilos) since it was infected a week ago. It was covered in pustules, had sickly mucous membranes and a shriveled udder. Look at her, with her head drooping. Her tongue is swollen, and she cant graze, said the frustrated rancher. No politician of any stripe has come up with any solutions. After being bitten by an infected insect, the cattle begin to show symptoms 510 days later. Sheep and goats have not been greatly impacted.

Jesus Ledesma cant sleep, wondering whether he will wake up to find another dead cow in the morning. The 45-year-old cattle rancher near the tiny town of Muga de Sayago (northwest Spain) is deeply distressed about the spread of cow Covid. Ledesma has watched cattle with bloodshot eyes struggling to breathe, their mucous membranes infested with insect larvae. There is no official record-keeping of all the EHD-related deaths.

Contagion in southern Europe

The first case in Europe was detected in Italy last November and quickly spread to Spain, primarily in the southern regions. In recent weeks, cases have been detected further north in Castilla y Leon and Cantabria, although Spains Ministry of Health has only reported a few dozen cases. Currently, there are no authorized vaccines in Europe, so using insecticides and repellents on cattle, facilities, and vehicles is strongly recommended. EHD can spread during transportation of the cattle and events like agricultural fairs. However, these precautions may not always be effective due to the challenges associated with detecting the insect.

Rancher Marcelo Mozo with one of his sick bulls. Emilio Fraile

Salamanca hosted a livestock fair in early September as the problem continued to grow. Two weeks later, acting Agriculture Minister Luis Planas convened meetings with representatives of regional governments, agricultural organizations and the livestock industry to address disease monitoring and control. The data collected will be sent to the Central Veterinary Laboratory in Algete (Madrid) for analysis.

According to Dolors Vidal, a professor of microbiology at the University of Castilla-La Mancha, the virus is spread by culicoides, a biting midge that is not actually a mosquito. The virus is common in the Americas and can spread through infected insects, said Vidal. Changes in climate can affect the distribution of contagion vectors. As the virus was present in North Africa, its not surprising that it spread to Spain, similar to the bluetongue virus, which affects ruminants, including sheep and goats.

Vidal points to insect bites as the main source of contagion and expects cattle to acquire immunity after an initial wave of deadly impacts. As with any new viral disease, the population tends to be susceptible at first and experiences more severe clinical symptoms until developing immunity. Like the coronavirus, for example. But there is no need for alarm  mortality rates are relatively low. Fernando Vicente fears that by then it will be too late for him and many others who will lose their livelihoods. This is my home, and this is the only way I know how to make a living. The cows, theyre like family to us.

Spains Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock requires animals and vehicles to be disinfected when moving from affected to unaffected areas. They also assure that meat and milk from sick animals can still be consumed. Similar to the bluetongue virus, common EHD symptoms include respiratory problems, fever, and lameness. It can also cause abortions and fertility problems in cows. EHD does not affect humans or the quality of meat, but it does have financial implications for livestock ranchers due to the added cost of veterinary care, prevention measures and depleted herds. Vultures seem to be the only things benefitting from this disease, as they grow fat on an abundance of carrion and fetuses aborted by sick cows.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Washington, Sep 14 (PTI) The strategic relationship between India and the US has never been so dynamic as they team up on everything from advanced semiconductors to defence cooperation, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said.

Speaking days after India successfully hosted the G-20 Summit and President and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks in New Delhi, Blinken said that both India and the US will benefit from several collaborations they have entered into.

The US-India strategic partnership has never been more dynamic, as we team up on everything from advanced semiconductors to defence cooperation," Blinken said on Wednesday in his remarks on Power and Purpose of American Diplomacy in a New Era at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) here.

Blinken said the Biden administration has elevated the Quad partnership with India, Japan, and Australia to deliver for the countries and the world on everything from manufacturing vaccines to strengthening maritime security to addressing climate challenges.

In November 2017, the four nations gave shape to the long-pending proposal of setting up the "Quad" to develop a new strategy to keep the critical sea routes in the Indo-Pacific free of any influence.

And just this past week at the G20, President Biden and Indian Prime Minister Modi announced another ambitious transportation, energy, and technology corridor that will connect the ports of Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy, and the EU will team up with the US and India to turbocharge clean energy production, and digital connectivity, and strengthen critical supply chains across the region, Blinken said.

The new economic corridor, which many see as an alternative to China's controversial Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), was jointly announced last week by the leaders of the US, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union on the sidelines of the G20 summit in New Delhi.

BRI, an ambitious project launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping, has also drawn criticism about its debt sustainability, especially from smaller countries.

Xi unveiled the BRI in 2013 with an aim to link China, the global manufacturing giant, with Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Gulf region, Africa and Europe with a network of land and sea routes.
Kathmandu, Sep 14 (PTI) Nepal government is set to import 20,000 metric tonnes (MT) of sugar from India ahead of the upcoming festivals, including Vijaya Dashami and Deepawali to meet the domestic demand. Although Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies has asked the Finance Ministry to give customs waiver for importing 60,000 MT of sugar to meet the local demand, the Finance Ministry has given permission to import only 20,000 MT for the time being.

According to Finance Ministry spokesperson, Dhaniram Sharma, the Ministry has given 50 per cent discount on customs duty, which means 15 per cent less from the earlier imposed 30 per cent customs duty.

Two companies, Salt Trading Corporation (STC) and Food Management and Trading Company, both would import 10,000 MT sugar each for the upcoming festival season, according to Sharma. However, divisional manager of STC Brajesh Jha said that it had asked the government permission to import 50,000 MT of sugar.

According to Jha, Nepals domestic demand for sugar stands at 3,00,000 MT and it needs to import a huge quantity of sugar mainly from India. There are 12 sugar factories in Nepal that produce around 1,00,000 MT of sugar.

According to an estimate, Nepal imports at least 70 per cent sugar from India. Besides, thousands of tons of sugars are brought through illegal channel without paying customs duty.

Sugar is available in the black market in Kathmandu and the prices ranges from Nepali Rupees 100 to 125 per kg, where as it costs around Rs 40 - 50 in India.
Derna, Sep 14 (AP) The Libyan city of Derna buried thousands of people in mass graves as search teams scoured the area after devastating floods that killed at least 5,100 people, a health official said Thursday.

Mediterranean storm Daniel caused deadly flooding in many eastern towns, but the worst-hit was Derna.

As the storm pounded the coast Sunday night, Derna residents said they heard loud explosions when the dams outside the city collapsed. Floodwaters washed down Wadi Derna, a valley that cuts through the city, crumbling buildings and washing people out to sea.

Health authorities have put the death toll in Derna at 5,100 as of Wednesday. The number of deaths was likely to climb as there are least 9,000 people still missing, said Ossama Ali, a spokesman for an ambulance centre in eastern Libya.

The floods have displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, according to the UN's International Organisation for Migration, and several thousand others were forced to leave their homes in other eastern towns, the UN agency said.

The floods damaged or destroyed many access roads to Derna, hampering the arrival of international rescue teams and humanitarian assistance.

The startling devastation reflected the storm's intensity, but also Libya's vulnerability. The country is divided by rival governments  one in the east, the other in the west  and one result has been widespread neglect of infrastructure. The dams that collapsed outside Derna were built in the 1970s and have not been maintained for years, local media reported.

More than 3,000 bodies were buried by Thursday morning, said eastern Libya's health minister, Othman Abduljaleel, while another 2,000 were still being processed. He said most of the dead were buried in mass graves outside Derna, while others were transferred to nearby towns and cities.

He said rescue teams were still searching wrecked buildings in the city centre, and divers combing seawater off Derna.

The storm hit other areas in eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Um Razaz and Marj, leaving around 170 dead, the health minister said.

The dead in eastern Libya included at least 84 Egyptians, who were transferred to their home country on Wednesday. More than 70 came from one village in the southern province of Beni Suef. Libyan media also said dozens of Sudanese migrants were killed in the disaster. (AP)





GRS

GRS
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was to tour a Russian aircraft plant that builds fighter jets and then visit the country's Pacific Fleet, but his exact whereabouts remained uncertain, as South Korea on Thursday expressed deep concern and regret that his visit has focused so far on expanding military cooperation.

Washington has warned that the summit on Wednesday between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin could lead to a deal for North Korea to supply ammunition for Moscow's war in Ukraine. There's widespread concern in Seoul that North Korea in return would receive advanced weapons technologies from Russia, including those related to military spy satellites, which would increase the threat posed by Kim's military nuclear programme.

We express our deep concern and regret that despite repeated warnings from the international community, North Korea and Russia discussed military cooperation issues, including satellite development, during their summit, said Lim Soo-suk, South Korea's Foreign Ministry spokesperson.

Any science and technology cooperation that contributes to nuclear weapons and missile development, including satellite systems that involve ballistic missile technologies, runs against U.N. Security Council resolutions, he said in a briefing.

Lim also pointed out that Kim's delegation in Russia includes several people sanctioned by the Security Council over involvement in illicit North Korean weapons development activities, including Korean People's Army Marshal Ri Pyong Chol and Jo Chun Yong, a ruling party official who handles munitions policies. Lim said Moscow should realize there will be very negative impacts on its relations with Seoul if it proceeds with military cooperation with North Korea.

South Korean Unification Minister Kim Yung-ho, who handles affairs with North Korea, warned that potential arms transfers between the North and Russia would invite stronger responses from South Korea, the U.S. and Japan, which have been stepping up their trilateral security cooperation to cope with regional threats.

White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said Wednesday that North Korea would face consequences if it supplies arms to Russia.

No nation on the planet, nobody, should be helping Mr. Putin kill innocent Ukrainians, Kirby said. If the countries decide to move forward with an arms deal, the U.S. will take measure of the arrangement and deal with it appropriately, he said.

He said that any deal that would improve North Korea's military capabilities certainly would be of significant concern to us.

The world has been largely relying on Russian and North Korean media for information about Kim's diplomacy in Russia, which underscores an aligning interest between the nuclear-armed countries locked in escalating tensions with the West.

A day after giving intense coverage to the Putin-Kim summit, Russian media outlets were silent on Kim as of Thursday afternoon. North Korean state media have been reporting on Kim's activities in Russia a day late and crafting their reports to support the government's propaganda needs.

North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency said on Thursday that Kim had invited Putin to visit North Korea at a convenient time and that Putin accepted with pleasure and reaffirmed his will to invariably carry forward the history of friendship between the nations.

Putin told Russian state TV after the summit that Kim will travel to two more cities in Russia's Far East on his own, flying to Komsomolsk-on-Amur, where he will visit an aircraft plant, and then go to Vladivostok to view Russia's Pacific Fleet, a university and other facilities.

During their meeting on Wednesday at Russia's spaceport in the Far East, Kim vowed full and unconditional support for Putin in what he described as a just fight against hegemonic forces to defend its sovereign rights, security and interests, in an apparent reference to the war in Ukraine.

The decision to meet at the Vostochny Cosmodrome suggested that Kim is seeking Russian help in developing military reconnaissance satellites. He has previously said they are crucial to enhancing the threat of his nuclear-capable missiles, and North Korea has repeatedly failed to place spy satellites into orbit.

The aircraft plant in Komsomolsk-on-Amur would be another location that possibly hints at what Kim seeks to gain from Russia in exchange for help fueling Putin's war on Ukraine.

Some analysts question whether Russia, which has always closely guarded its sensitive weapons technologies, would be willing to share them with North Korea in exchange for what may end up being limited supplies of munitions moved slowly through their small land link.

They say military cooperation between the countries could be more about conventional capabilities, such as Russia possibly helping North Korea improve its badly aged air force that remains reliant on fighter jets sent by the Soviet Union in the 1980s.

Putin told reporters that Russia and North Korea have lots of interesting projects in spheres like transportation and agriculture and that Moscow is providing its neighbor with humanitarian aid. But he avoided talking about military cooperation, saying only that Russia is abiding by the sanctions prohibiting procuring weapons from North Korea.

Wednesday's meeting came hours after North Korea fired two ballistic missiles toward the sea, extending a highly provocative run in testing since 2022, as Kim used the distraction caused by war in Ukraine to accelerate his weapons development. (AP)



NSA

NSA
Derna (Libya), Sep 14 (AP) The wall of water several stories high smashed into apartment buildings, drowning entire families in minutes.

One man, Fadellalah, believes 13 members of his extended family died. Hes yet to hear about the fate of another 20, several days after two dams burst upstream of the Libyan coastal city of Derna, unleashing epic floods that wiped out neighbourhoods and sent some of the dead into sea.

Thousands of others like him are frantically trying to find out who survived the rain-swollen rampage.

As a powerful storm bore down on his hometown, Fadellalah, an information technology worker in Libyas capital of Tripoli, called his family Sunday to urge them to move to higher ground.

No one expected this, said Fadelallah, who asked that his surname not be used because he fears reprisal from government officials and armed groups who could view his story as criticism of their efforts.

Some of them didnt have cars. They didnt have a way to get out, he said Wednesday of his family.

Torrential rainwater that gushed down steep mountainsides and into the city killed thousands. Those who survived recount nightmarish scenes, with bodies piling up quicker than authorities can count them. The devastating floods have killed at least 5,100 people, a health official said Thursday.

Mediterranean storm Daniel caused deadly flooding in many towns of eastern Libya. But Derna, renowned for its white villas and palm trees, was the worst-hit. The city had no evacuation plans, and residents said the only warning was the explosive sound of the dams rupturing.

Location proved the difference between life and death.

Fadelallah said all 13 deceased members of his family lived in a neighbourhood near the river valley. Their bodies were recovered and buried by the Red Crescent, their names inked on a list of the deceased sent to him by the medical group.

Mohammed Derna, a teacher and 34-year-old father of two, said he and his family and neighbours rushed upstairs. Outside he saw people, including women and young children, just being carried away. They spent Sunday night on the roof of their apartment block before managing to get out Monday morning.

They were screaming, help, help, he said over the phone from a field hospital in Derna. It was like a Hollywood horror movie.

Emad al-Falah, an aid worker from Benghazi who arrived in the city on Wednesday, said search and rescue teams have been combing apartment buildings for bodies and retrieving corpses turned back by the sea. A litany of social media videos and images show similar distressing scenes.

Its a complete disaster. Bodies are everywhere, inside houses, in the streets, at sea. Wherever you go, you find dead men, women, and children, al-Falah said.

The startling devastation has underscored Libyas vulnerability. The oil-rich country has been divided between rival administrations, each backed by competing armed militias, for almost a decade. It has been rocked by conflict since a NATO-backed Arab Spring uprising toppled autocratic ruler Moammar Gadhafi in 2011.

Both governments, and their various international patrons, have banded together to help those affected. But the progress has been slow. Key bridges, roads and other infrastructure are gone. Derna, which had a population of 90,000, largely was cut off from the world before the first aid convoys arrived late Tuesday.

As of Wednesday, at least 30,000 people were displaced by the flooding in Derna, the UNs International Organization for Migration said. Many fled to nearby cities and towns less impacted by the storm.

One of them is Ahlam Yassin, a 30-year-old housewife, who left for the eastern city of Tobruk.

Everything has gone, said Yassin, who waded barefoot with her family through knee-deep water to leave her neighbourhood. The city itself has gone.

Mahmoud al-Baseers cousins lived less than a kilometre -- roughly 0.6 miles -- from one of the dams. They survived, he said, by quickly escaping to the upper floors of their three-story apartment block and were lucky that the structure held its ground.

Al-Baseer, who lives in the United Kingdom, initially feared they had died. Until he reached them Tuesday evening, he struggled to watch the destruction from afar.

I could not carry on watching those social media videos, he said.

Fadelallah said his parents have made it to Benghazi, hoping to reunite with relatives from Derna. And he said he hopes to return soon to give his deceased relatives a proper Islamic funeral. (AP) NPK

NPK
Islamabad, Sep 14 (PTI) Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar has said that the law enforcement agencies will decide about arresting former premier Nawaz Sharif upon his return to the country from self-imposed exile next month.

Kakar made the remarks during an interview with SAMAA TV on Wednesday when asked about any action against 73-year-old Nawaz upon his arrival in Pakistan.

In February 2020, Nawaz was declared an absconder. Later in the same year, an accountability court declared him a proclaimed offender in the Toshakhana vehicles reference.

The law enforcement agencies (LEAs) will decide this matter in light of the law. If they think he (Nawaz) should be chained then they will adopt that path and vice versa, Kakar said when the host asked whether Nawaz would be handcuffed or not on his return.

He said that the leadership of LEAs would decide the issue of his arrest to the best of their ability.

I reiterate that the leadership of legal and law enforcement agencies is present. Whatever they decide, whether they send him (Nawaz) behind bars or allow freedom of movement, it will be the decision of the leadership of the judicial process and law enforcement, he said.

However, the prime minister said that the government could intervene if it felt that either Nawaz or LEAs were defying the law.

On Tuesday, Nawaz's younger brother and PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif said in London that his brother would return to Pakistan from the UK on October 21 to lead the party's political campaign in the upcoming elections.

Nawaz left for London in November 2019 after the Lahore High Court granted him four-week permission to go abroad for his treatment. But he never returned to Pakistan where he was convicted of corruption and jailed.

He was convicted in the Al-Azizia Mills and Avenfield corruption cases in 2018. He was serving a seven-year imprisonment at Lahores Kot Lakhpat jail in the Al-Azizia Mills case when he was allowed to proceed to London in 2019 on "medical grounds".

Shehbaz has previously said that Nawaz will be the next prime minister if the party returns to power in the general elections.

In 2016, Nawaz stepped down as the prime minister after the Supreme Court disqualified him for life for concealing assets. His appeals against the conviction are currently pending in the relevant courts.

He was disqualified by the Supreme Court in 2017. In 2018, he became ineligible to hold public office for life after a Supreme Court verdict in the Panama Papers case.

Nawaz is considered a crowd-puller and a major force to bring voters to the polling stations.
Derna, Sep 14 (AP) The city of Derna has buried thousands of people in mass graves, Libyan officials said Thursday, as search teams scoured ruins left by devastating floods and the city's mayor said that the death toll could triple.

The deluge swept away entire families on Sunday night and exposed vulnerabilities in the oil-rich country that has been mired in conflict since the 2011 uprising that toppled long-ruling dictator Moammar Gadhafi. Health officials have confirmed 5,500 deaths and say 9,000 people are still missing.

Here's a look at the latest developments.



WHAT HAPPENED IN LIBYA?

Daniel, an unusually strong Mediterranean storm, caused deadly flooding in towns across eastern Libya, but the worst-hit was Derna. As the storm pounded the coast Sunday night, residents said they heard loud explosions when the dams outside the city collapsed. Floodwaters washed down Wadi Derna, a valley that cuts through the city, crashing through buildings and washing people out to sea.

A UN official said Thursday that most casualties could have been avoided.

If there would have been a normal operating meteorological service, they could have issued the warnings," World Meteorological Organization head Petteri Taalas told reporters in Geneva. "The emergency management authorities would have been able to carry out the evacuation.

The WMO said earlier this week that the National Meteorological Centre had issued warnings 72 hours before the flooding, notifying all governmental authorities by e-mail and through media. It was not immediately clear whether or how those warnings were acted upon.



HOW DOES CONFLICT IN LIBYA AFFECT THE DISASTER?

The startling devastation reflected the storm's intensity, but also Libya's vulnerability. Oil-rich Libya has been divided between rival governments for most of the past decade  one in the east, the other in the west  and one result has been widespread neglect of infrastructure.

The dams that collapsed outside Derna were built in the 1970s and have not been maintained for years, local media reported.

The disaster brought a rare moment of unity, as government agencies across the country rushed to help the affected areas.

While the Tobruk-based government of east Libya is leading relief efforts, the Tripoli-based western government allocated the equivalent of USD 412 million for reconstruction in Derna and other eastern towns, and an armed group in Tripoli sent a convoy with humanitarian aid.



WHAT'S HAPPENING TODAY?

Derna has begun burying its dead, mostly in mass graves, said eastern Libya's health minister, Othman Abduljaleel.

More than 3,000 bodies were buried by Thursday morning, the minister said, while another 2,000 were still being processed. He said most of the dead were buried in mass graves outside Derna, while others were transferred to nearby towns and cities.

Abduljaleel said rescue teams were still searching wrecked buildings in the city centre, and divers were combing seawater off Derna.

Untold numbers could be buried under drifts of mud and debris, including overturned cars and chunks of concrete, that rise up to four metres high. Rescuers have struggled to bring in heavy equipment as the floods washed out or blocked roads leading to the area.



HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE BEEN KILLED?

Health authorities have put the death toll in Derna at 5,500 as of Thursday morning. The number of deaths was likely to climb as searches are continuing, and at least 9,000 people are still missing, said Ossama Ali, a spokesman for an ambulance centre in eastern Libya.

Some bodies may not be found, especially those who were swept out to sea, he said.

Local officials suggested that the death toll could be much higher than announced. In comments to the Saudi-owned Al Arabia television station, Derna Mayor Abdel-Moneim al-Ghaithi said the tally could climb to 20,000, given the number of neighbourhoods that were washed out.

An official with the UN's World Health Organisation in Libya said the fatalities could reach 7,000, given the number of people who were still missing. The official was not authorised to brief media and spoke on condition of anonymity.

The storm also killed around 170 people in other parts of eastern Libya, including the towns of Bayda, Susa, Um Razaz and Marj, the health minister said.

The dead in eastern Libya included at least 84 Egyptians, who were transferred to their home country on Wednesday. More than 70 came from one village in the southern province of Beni Suef. Libyan media also said dozens of Sudanese migrants were killed in the disaster.



IS HELP REACHING SURVIVORS?

The floods have also displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, according to the UN's International Organisation for Migration, and several thousand others were forced to leave their homes in other eastern towns, the UN agency said.

The floods damaged or destroyed many access roads to Derna, hampering the arrival of international rescue teams and humanitarian assistance. Local authorities were able to clear some routes, and over the past 48 hours humanitarian convoys have been able to enter the city.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said Thursday it has provided 6,000 body bags to local authorities, as well as medical, food and other supplies distributed to hard-hit communities.

International aid started to arrive earlier this week to Benghazi, 250 kilometres west of Derna. Neighbouring Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia have sent rescue teams and aid, as did Turkey, Italy and the United Arab Emirates. The UK and German governments have also sent supplies.

President Joe Biden said the United States would send money to relief organisations and coordinate with Libyan authorities and the United Nations to provide additional support. (AP)



GRS

GRS
Atlanta, Sep 14 (AP) A Georgia judge ruled Thursday that former President Donald Trump and 16 others will be tried separately from two defendants who are set to go to trial next month in the case accusing them of participating in an illegal scheme to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

Lawyers Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro had filed demands for a speedy trial, and Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee set their trial to begin October 23. Trump and other defendants had asked to be tried separately from Powell and Chesebro, with some saying they could not be ready by the late October trial date.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis last month obtained an indictment against 19 people charging them under the state's anti-racketeering law. (AP)



GRS

GRS
Colombo, Sep 14 (PTI) The Sri Lankan Navy has arrested at least 17 Indian fishermen and seized three trawlers for allegedly poaching in the country's territorial waters, an official statement said on Thursday.

The fishermen were arrested on Wednesday off the coast of Jaffna's Kakarathivu island.

"The Sri Lankan Navy on Wednesday arrested at least 17 Indian fishermen and took in custody three trawlers for illegally poaching in the island nation's territorial water," said the statement from the Sri Lankan Navy.

They had been escorted to the port of Kankesanthurai and handed over to the local fisheries directorate, the Navy said.

The fishermen issue is a contentious one in ties between the two countries.

There have been periodic instances of Indian fishermen being apprehended by Sri Lankan authorities for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line and fishing in Sri Lankan waters.

This problem has prevailed despite many high-level talks held between the two sides.

There have been several alleged incidents of Sri Lankan Navy personnel even firing at Indian fishermen in the Palk Strait and seizing their boats.

The Palk Strait, which is a narrow strip of water separating Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka, is a rich fishing ground for fishermen from both countries.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Thursday urged the Union Government to secure their immediate release.

Writing to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Stalin said, "Earlier today, three mechanised boats and 17 Tamil Nadu fishermen were apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy, allegedly for crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) into Sri Lankan waters."

Stalin requested Jaishankar to take up immediate diplomatic efforts to secure their release.

"These fishermen, who rely on fishing as their primary and sole source of livelihood, sometimes find themselves unintentionally drifting into Sri Lankan waters due to the absence of clear demarcation and navigational challenges," Stalin said in his letter.
Atlanta, Sep 14 (AP) A Georgia judge ruled on Thursday that former President Donald Trump and 16 others will be tried separately from two defendants who are set to go to trial next month in the case accusing them of participating in an illegal scheme to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

Lawyers Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro had filed demands for a speedy trial, and Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee had set their trial to begin October 23.

Trump and other defendants had asked to be tried separately from Powell and Chesebro, with some saying they could not be ready by the late October trial date.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis last month obtained an indictment against Trump and the 18 others, charging them under the state's anti-racketeering law in their efforts to deny Democrat Joe Biden's victory over the Republican incumbent.

Willis had been pushing to try all 19 defendants together, arguing that it would be more efficient and more fair. McAfee cited the tight timetable, among other issues, as a factor in his decision to separate Trump and 16 others from Powell and Chesebro.

The precarious ability of the Court to safeguard each defendant's due process rights and ensure adequate pretrial preparation on the current accelerated track weighs heavily, if not decisively, in favour of severance, McAfee wrote. He added that it may be necessary to further divide them into smaller groups for trial.

The development is likely to be welcome news to other defendants looking to avoid being tied by prosecutors to Powell, who perhaps more than anyone else in the Trump camp was vocal about publicly pushing baseless conspiracy theories linking foreign governments to election interferences.

Another defendant in the Atlanta case, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, has sought to distance himself from Powell and spoke at length about her in an interview with special counsel Jack Smith's team in Washington, according to a person familiar with his account who was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.

Also, Trump-aligned lawyer Eric Herschmann, who in 2020 tried to push back against efforts to undo the election, told the congressional committee investigating the riot at the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, that he regarded Powell's ideas as nuts.

Chesebro and Powell had sought to be tried separately from each other, but the judge also denied request.

Chesebro is accused of working on the coordination and execution of a plan to have 16 Georgia Republicans sign a certificate declaring falsely that Trump won and declaring themselves the state's duly elected and qualified electors. Powell is accused of participating in a breach of election equipment in rural Coffee County.

The nearly 100-page indictment details dozens of alleged acts by Trump or his allies to undo his 2020 loss in Georgia, including suggesting the secretary of state, a Republican, could help find enough votes for Trump to win the battleground state; harassing an election worker who faced false claims of fraud; and attempting to persuade Georgia lawmakers to ignore the will of voters and appoint a new slate of electoral college electors favourable to Trump.

Further explaining his decision to separate the others from Powell and Chesebro, McAfee said he was skeptical of prosecutors' argument that trying all 19 defendants together would be more efficient.

He noted that the Fulton County courthouse does not have a courtroom big enough to hold 19 defendants, their lawyers and others who would need to be present, and relocating to a bigger venue could raise security concerns.

Prosecutors also had argued that because each defendant is charged under the state's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organisations Act, or RICO Act, the state plans to call the same witnesses and present the same evidence for any trial in the case.

They told the judge last week that they expect any trial would take four months, not including jury selection.

But McAfee pointed out that each additional defendant increases the time needed for opening statements and closing arguments, cross examination and evidentiary objections. Thus, even if the State's case remains identical in length, and the aggregate time invested by the Court is increased, the burden on the jurors for each individual trial is lessened through shorter separate trials, he wrote.

The judge also noted that to satisfy the demands by Powell and Chesebro for a speedy trial, he will try to have a jury seated by November 3.

With each additional defendant involved in the voir dire process, an already Herculean task becomes more unlikely, he wrote.

McAfee also pointed to the fact that five defendants are currently seeking to move their cases to federal court and litigation on that issue is ongoing. If they were to succeed midway through a trial in the state court, it's not clear what the impact would be, McAfee wrote.

US District Judge Steve Jones last week rejected a bid by Mark Meadows, Trump's last White House chief of staff, to move his case to federal court; Meadows is appealing that ruling.

The other four have hearings before Jones scheduled next week.

Meadows and three of the others had asked McAfee to halt state court proceedings while their efforts to move to federal court are pending. The judge denied that request, saying he does not intend to stay pretrial litigation in the meantime. (AP) RUP
A migrant reception center in Italys southernmost island of Lampedusa was overwhelmed Thursday as authorities worked to transfer to the mainland thousands of people who arrived on small, unseaworthy boats in a 24-hour span this week.

The Red Cross said there were still 4,200 migrants at the center out of the 6,800 who reached the tiny tourist and fishing island in a flotilla of some 120 boats that set out from Tunisia. Commercial ferries and Italian military vessels were taking newcomers from Lampedusa to mainland Italy.

After a particularly challenging day like yesterday, today people are being continuously transferred, Francesca Basile of the Italian Red Cross said. The situation is certainly complex and gradually we are trying to return to normal.

She said all of the migrants received and camping beds were being distributed so that they dont sleep in the cold.

The movements of newly arrived migrants are usually tightly controlled. But with the reception center overflowing, some slipped away, and they were spotted all over the island, according to volunteers.

As Italian television station Sky TG24 filmed outside the center, people could be seen climbing over a wall in the background.

Some residents handed out pasta, Sicilian rice balls and water to the migrants they encountered. A pair of islanders lugging a carton of fresh peaches stopped to give pieces of fruit to migrants who were exploring Lampedusas main tourist street, which is decorated with colored lights and lined with reateries and souvenir shops.

A local firefighter said he asked his mother to cook up spaghetti and serve several young men from Burkina Faso whom he ran into when he was headed elsewhere for a grilled fish dinner, Italian news agency ANSA said.

They were exhausted, but above all famished, ANSA quoted Antonello Di Malta as saying about the migrants his mother fed on their patio. One of them got down on his knees, asking to eat.

Sky TG24 reported just one migrant boat arrived on the island Thursday, carrying 44 people.

Lampedusas mayor, Filippo Mannino, lashed out at the European Union for leaving Italy alone to handle large numbers of arriving migrants, saying the bloc had remained silent all these months. He called for a structural solution and told Sky that Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni had pledged her support.

Speaking at a demographics conference in Hungary, Meloni said the problems created by Italys aging population should not be resolved with immigrants working to support the social welfare system and keep the economy humming.

She said she would support a quota system for legal immigration where necessary and (where it) can be fully integrated.

Italys interior minister, Matteo Piantedosi, consulted by phone on Thursday with the EU internal affairs commissioner, Ylva Johansson, about the migrant situation, effectively acknowledging that the current approach wasnt working.

We agreed on the need to develop a new European operative strategy against human traffickers, Piantedosi was quoted as saying in a statement released by his office. I underlined to the commissioner the need to beef up repatriations by Tunisia toward the (migrants) countries of origins.

A bilateral meeting in Brussels is planned soon, the statement said.

Italy has a repatriation agreement with Tunisia to send back Tunisians found ineligible for asylum, but not with most of the other countries whose migrants come ashore in Italy.

According to the Interior Ministry, nearly 126,000 migrants reached Italy by sea this year as of Thursday morning, nearly double the number as by the same time last year. On Thursday, another 180 migrants rescued at sea were brought to the port city of Salerno, south of Naples.

Separately, a group of European Union lawmakers hit out at Tunisian authorities on Thursday after they were denied entry into the country for a visit aimed at better understanding a migration-focused agreement Tunis recently signed with the EU. They called the refusal unprecedented since (Tunisias) democratic revolution in 2011.

Tunisia has become the main stepping stone to Italy this year, replacing Libya, where widespread abuse of migrants was reported. The port city of Sfax is a central jumping-off point for Africans who hope to make the risky boat journey across the Mediterranean.

The visit by the cross-party EU delegation was slated as a follow-up to an April 2022 trip that was made amid concerns about democratic backsliding in Tunisia. The lawmakers from Germany and France planned to be in Tunisia Sept. 14-16 with a goal of promoting dialogue between Tunisias political parties.

The lawmakers warned that the dire economic and social situation in Tunisia, further aggravated by the humanitarian crisis, urgently requires a comprehensive national dialogue, without which the prospects for stable political and economic development in Tunisia remain bleak.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Kathmandu, Sep 14 (PTI) Nepal's Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' will leave for the US on Saturday to attend the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) at the UN Headquarters in New York.

According to a press statement issued by the Foreign Ministry here, Prime Minister Prachanda is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on September 21.

The theme of the General Debate of the 78th UNGA will be "Rebuilding Trust and Reigniting Global Solidarity: Accelerating Action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards Peace, Prosperity, Progress and Sustainability for All".

The Prime Minister will participate in the opening session of the General Debate of the 78th UNGA and attend the reception to be hosted by US President Joe Biden on September 19.

Prachanda is also scheduled to address the UN SDGs Summit and Climate Ambition Summit on the sidelines of the UNGA. He will also meet UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and hold bilateral meetings with leaders from various countries.

The Prime Minister will be accompanied by Foreign Secretary Bharat Raj Paudyal, his daughter Ganga Dahal and other senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Foreign Minister N P Saud has already left for New York on Tuesday.

After spending five days in the US, Prachanda will fly directly to Beijing.

Prachanda's visit to China is a bid by the senior Maoist leader to strike a balance in relations with China and India.

He will also attend the inauguration of the Asian Games being held in Guangzhou, China, from September 23 to October 8.

"I will be attending the inaugural of the Asian Games, Prachanda told a team of Nepalese players who reached the PMs residence at Baluwatar, Kathmandu to attend the farewell function organized by the Prime Minister for the players.

China has been actively investing in Nepal in many infrastructure projects.
Mumbai, Sep 14 (PTI) The term 'best interest of a child' is wide in its connotation and cannot remain only the love and care of the primary caregiver parent, the Bombay High Court said on Thursday, adding it is a basic human right of a child to have the care and protection of both parents.

A division bench of Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Gauri Godse directed a woman to return the custody of her three-and-half-year-old son to her estranged husband living in the United States of America within a period of 15 days.

The order was passed on a plea filed by the father claiming he and his estranged wife had a settlement wherein their child, who is a US citizen by birth, was to remain in that country with his mother.

The man, in his plea, said despite this arrangement, his estranged wife came to India with the child and refused to return.

The HC, in its order, said it was in the best interest of the child to return to the US where he was born.

The court said if the woman wishes to accompany her child then she may do so and directed the man to provide residence and monthly maintenance to her and the child.

"The expression 'best interest of the child', which is always kept to be of paramount consideration, is indeed wide in its connotation, and it cannot remain only the love and care of the primary caregiver i.e. the mother in the case of the child who is only a few years old," the HC said.

The basis for any decision taken regarding the child is to ensure fulfilment of his basic rights and needs, identity, social well-being and physical, emotional and intellectual development, it added.

"However, while deciding the welfare of the child, it is not the view of one spouse alone which has to be taken into consideration. The courts should decide the issue of custody only on the basis of what is in the best interest of the child," the judgment said.

The bench also noted that except for the tender age of the child where he needs the care and protection of a mother, there is no other factor in her favour.

"We believe that at this tender age, the child is entitled to have the company of both his parents. Rather, it is his basic human right to have the care and protection of both parents. Thus, the wife is not justified in unreasonably depriving the child of the company of his father," HC said.

The couple got married in Mumbai on March 31, 2010. They moved to USA on June 16, 2010 and they received their green cards in October 2020, which enabled them to stay in USA permanently. They started living in Texas where the child was born on December 25, 2019.

The woman and her son travelled to India on December 21, 2020 with a return ticket for January 13, 2021. Three days later, she informed her husband that he should not try to contact her.

On December 25, 2020, the man wrote an email to the US Embassy in India that his son, who is a US citizen, had been abducted. Five days later, he filed the petition in the High Court seeking habeas corpus of the son.

On January 8, 2021, the husband filed for legal separation and his son's custody in a Texas court. The court directed that the son be returned to the father by January 25, 2021.

After this, the woman initiated domestic violence proceedings against her husband in Belapur court and also filed for divorce proceedings in Thane court.

On January 26, 2021, the USA court extended the time to return the child by four days.

The Texas court allowed the divorce petition in April 2021 and granted irrevocable custody of the child to the father.

The present habeas corpus petition was amended with prayer seeking compliance of the Texas court.

The HC noted that since custody battles were bitterly fought, the role of courts became crucial to enter as a guardian of the child.

"In our country, matrimonial disputes constitute the most bitterly fought adversarial litigation, and when the issue of custody of children is involved, children suffer the most.

"In such cases, the role of the court becomes crucial. The court is required to exercise parent patriae jurisdiction and compel the parties to do something that is in the best interest of the child. Hence, in such a peculiar situation, it is the responsibility of the court to enter into the role of a guardian for the child," the court observed.
Kolkata, Sep 14 (PTI) Former vice-chancellors of state-run universities of West Bengal have sent a legal notice to Raj Bhavan asking Governor CV Anand Bose to apologise within 15 days for allegedly defaming a section of them.

A platform of pro-Trinamool Congress ex-VCs and educationists claimed that 12 former vice-chancellors were "distressed and distraught by the disrespectful, false and defamatory accusations" made by Bose as his capacity in the chancellor of the state-run universities.

Bose, who is embroiled in a war of words with the state government over the appointment of interim VCs in universities, had said in a video message last week, "There were allegations of corruption, sexual harassment and political interference against some VCs who were earlier appointed" and that was why their tenures were not extended.

The platform, Educationists' Forum, said in the legal notice that the former VC would file defamation cases against the governor if he did not apologise and a fine of Rs 50 lakh will also be demanded for each of them.

"We are of the view the honourable chancellor's unsubstantiated comments have maligned the renowned academicians who were functioning as VCs to the best of their ability. We demand that he take back the comments immediately.

Otherwise, each of the 12 former VCs will be separately sending legal notices to the Chancellor for his defamatory statement, Educationists' Forum spokesperson Omprkash Mishra told a press conference.

Several of those vice-chancellors whose tenures were not extended were present at the press meet.

The Forum also took exception to the Chancellors decision to form an appointment panel for speeding up vacancies of teachers in state universities.

This is another example of bypassing well-established recruitment norms," claimed Mishra, former Vice Chancellor of North Bengal University.

In a recent interview to PTI, Bose had said the Calcutta HC has said that on appointments of VCs, the governor needs to consult the state government, but has upheld that he does not need the state's concurrence in appointing VCs.
Medininagar (Jharkhand), Sep 14 (PTI) Police on Thursday launched an operation against organised criminal gangs in Palamu, Garhwa and Latehar districts of Jharkhands Palamu division, officials said.

Inspector general of Palamu range Raj Kumar Lakra said as many as 210 criminals have been identified in Palamu division including 98 in Latehar, 62 in Palamu and 50 in Garhwa.

"The identified criminals are divided into 10 gangs. Steps are being taken against them under the Crime Control Act (CCA)," he said.
Aizawl, Sep 14 (PTI) A district court in Mizoram on Thursday sentenced a 38-year-old woman to 10 years in jail for killing her niece, a court official said.

Champhai district additional and sessions judge Sylvie Zomuanpuii Ralte convicted and sentenced Chingsianzovi to 10 years in jail and slapped a fine of Rs 5,000, the official said.

Chingsianzovi will have to undergo an additional imprisonment of one year if she fails to pay the fine, he said.

Chingsianzovi from east Mizoram's Khawzawl town strangulated her 13-year-old niece Catherine T. Biaksiami to death in February last year.

The two were camping at a farmhouse to collect firewood at the time of the incident.

Chingsianzovi asked Catherine to collect firewood during the day and became livid after seeing that her niece failed to collect firewood up to her satisfaction.

The two quarreled and in a fit of rage, Chingsianzovi choked her niece to death with the help of 'Hnam' (a traditional strap for carrying loads).

Initially, Chingsianzovi denied killing her niece and told police that an unidentified man had attempted to kidnap Catherine and that she caught the culprit and tied him with a rope.

However, when the police team reached the crime scene, they found the girl lying dead in the farmhouse.

Later, police detained Chingsianzovi and subsequently she confessed to her crime.

The prosecution upheld that Chingsianzovi accidentally killed her niece since she was drunk. She was convicted her under Section 304 and Section 182 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Catherine was an orphan and she was living with her aunt Chingsianzovi in Khawzawl town.
New Delhi, Sep 14 (PTI) The Enforcement Directorate has seized assets worth Rs 20.11 crore during searches at the premises of a Mumbai-based company in connection with a money laundering probe, officials said Thursday.

The agency said searches were conducted at various premises of Max Flex Imaging and System, which is controlled by Hitesh R Jobalia and Nimesh N Shah, on Monday and Tuesday.

"The said action has resulted into seizure of stocks of Flex, Vinyl and other items worth Rs 12 crore, FDRs amounting to Rs 1.25 crore, demat accounts having balance Rs. 6.30 crore, foreign currency, cash, gold jewellery and silver bars, totalling Rs 20.11 crore," the agency said in a statement.

The CBI had booked the company in connection with alleged loss of Rs 464.41 crore caused to the State Bank of India-led consortium.

Based on this alleged offence, the directorate started a money laundering probe against the company.

The ED probe showed the company and other accused persons entered into a criminal conspiracy to cheat consortium of the State Bank of India by taking loans fraudulently by submitting inflated stock statements/balance sheet of the said company. "The promoters of the company diverted and utilised the funds received from banks for purchasing various properties and diverted the same to various firms/companies incorporated in the name of the employees/ex-employee/relatives of the said company and its directors, it said.
New Delhi, Sep 14 (PTI) The AAP's senior leader Sanjay Singh on Thursday said the Centre gives a befitting reply to Pakistan-sponsored terrorists involved in the killing of four officers of the Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police in Anantnag.

Three Army personnel, including a Colonel commanding a battalion and a Major, and a Deputy Superintendent of the Jammu and Kashmir Police were killed in a gunfight with terrorists in the higher reaches of the Kokorenag area on Wednesday while one soldier was missing.

Addressing a press conference here, Singh said, "I demand the Narendra Modi government takes care of their families and extends maximum help in terms of providing employment."

"The government should give a befitting reply to the Pakistan-sponsored terrorists. If the government does not act on it, we will raise these issues in the special session of the Parliament," the AAP MP said while noting that he and Raghav Chadha have been suspended from the Rajya Sabha.

Colonel Manpreet Singh, commanding officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, Major Ashish Dhonack, and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat were critically injured in the gunfight with terrorists that ensued in the Garol area of Anantnag district in the morning hours of Wednesday.

The officers succumbed to their injuries during treatment. A jawan also died in the encounter, officials have said while adding that the whereabouts of another soldier was not immediately known and it is feared he might have been seriously wounded.

At the press conference, Singh was asked about the remarks made by DMK leader and Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin as well as another party leader A Raja over their remarks on Sanatan Dharma.

In reply, the AAP leader said, "The BJP has insulted Sanatan Dharma the most. They were involved in the theft of donations for Ram Mandir. Their leader Dinesh Sharma had called Goddess Sita a test tube baby. BJP leaders should not talk about Sanatan Dharma and Hindu religion," he said.

Singh also noted that the BJP has formed government twice with DMK.

"No one can comment on Sanatan Dharma and we should respect all religions. There should be peaceful coexistence, brotherhood and love between all religions. Be it Udhayanidhi or any other leader, no one has any right to comment on Hindu religion or Sanatan Dharma," he said.
Mainpuri (UP), Sep 14 (PTI) A woman was killed and four people were injured in a fire caused by leakage from an LPG gas cylinder in this Uttar Pradesh district, police said on Thursday.

The incident took place on Wednesday in Ramaehaar village located within the Kotwali police station limits, they added.

Arjun was fixing a leakage issue in a gas cylinder in his house. He lit a stove and the fire broke out, resulting in serious injuries to five people, Superintendent of Police (SP) Vinod Kumar told PTI.

Villagers rushed to the scene and carried out a rescue operation. The injured were sent to a hospital where Kunti (18) succumbed to her injuries, the officer said.

Villagers and police, including Circle Officer (City) Santosh Kumar Singh and ASP Rajesh Kumar, rushed the injured to the hospital. Three of the injured people, including two women in a critical condition, were subsequently taken to the medical college in Saifai. One of them succumbed to her injuries on the way, the SP said.

Two rooms of the house where the fire broke out have been badly damaged, police added.
Lucknow, Sep 14 (PTI) A special NIA court here on Thursday pronounced death sentence to two men linked to the ISIS for killing a retired school principal in Kanpur and indulging in terror activities, observing that the "motive of this murder was to spread terror among non-Muslims".

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) court also imposed Rs 11.20 lakh fine on each of the two convicts, Atif Muzaffar and Mohammad Faisal, and said that the amount would be given to the dependents of deceased principal Ramesh Babu Shukla.

The court said that once the death penalty was confirmed by the high court, the two would be hanged till death.

Pronouncing the sentence, Judge Dinesh Kumar Mishra said that the act of the convicts fell into the rarest of the rare category and hence they deserved the death penalty.

The murder of Ramesh Babu Shukla did not fall in ordinary category because his death was committed by the accused to show commitment with the banned terror group ISIS and the murder was committed after ensuring that Shukla belonged to non-Muslim religion, observed the court.

The court further added, The convicts had no enmity with the deceased nor the deceased had made any objectionable comments against Muslims. The motive of committing this murder was to spread the Shariat (Islamic law) and cause terror among non-Muslims.

Shukla was shot dead in Kanpur on October 24, 2016. Initially the FIR in the case was lodged by his son Akshay Shukla with Chakeri police station against unidentified persons.

The NIA had first arrested Muzaffar and Faisal in connection with the Bhopal-Ujjain passenger train blast that took place on March 8, 2017. Later, Muzaffar confessed that he along with Faisal and others committed the murder of retired principal Shukla after confirming that he was a Hindu while recognizing him by his 'kalawa' (sacred thread).

The day when the train blast had taken place, a terrorist linked to the proscribed ISIS group, Mohammad Saifullah, was shot dead in Lucknow in an encounter.

Eight guns and several cartridges were recovered from his house. The NIA conducted the investigation in the case. In a forensic test, it was found that the bullet recovered from the body of Shukla was fired by a gun recovered from the house of Saifullah.

After completing the probe, the charge sheet was filed against the two accused in the special court by the NIA.
Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 14 (PTI) Former Health Minister and senior ruling CPI(M) MLA K K Shailaja says Kerala has nothing to worry about the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode as the situation is not as scary as it was in 2018.

Shailaja, who had won accolades for containing the Nipah infection effectively in 2018, said the southern state has a protocol and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to effectively fight the infection and prevent its spread.

She was the Health minister in the previous LDF government, which fought the first Nipah outbreak in the state.

"In 2018, it was a new virus to us, and we did not have any experience battling such an infection. Now, we have everything in place to contain it effectively," Shailaja told reporters here.

She said Nipah testing facilities have been established in the state but the declaration of virus infection can only be made by the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune.

"We have the facility. We tried it out during the first bout in 2018 at Kozhikode. But the declaration can only be made by NIV, Pune," the senior CPI(M) MLA said.

She said during the COVID-19 outbreak, the state government had taken special permission from the central government to declare COVID results from the virology lab at Alappuzha.

The central team visited Alappuzha, did the test themselves, and permitted Kerala to release the results, the former health minister said.

"When COVID spread got to its peak, we got permission to conduct the tests at the Medical College labs and to release the results. As far as Nipah is concerned, we can release the results only if we get special permission from the Central Government," Shailaja said.

The brain-damaging virus has killed two people and infected three others in Kozhikode district.

On Wednesday, a 24-year old health worker became Kerala's fifth confirmed Nipah case since its recent outbreak.

Out of the three infected persons under treatment, the condition of a nine-year-old boy continues to remain critical, and the government has ordered monoclonal antibodies from ICMR.

It is the only available anti-viral treatment for Nipah virus infection, though it has not been clinically proven yet.
A man who lived in the northern outskirts of Buenos Aires was operating as Argentinas largest Nazi material distributor from his family home, federal police announced Wednesday after an investigation lasting nearly two years. According to the authorities, who arrested the suspect after agents staged an undercover purchase operation, he sold more than 300 titles, including Nazi propaganda, works glorifying Adolf Hitler, Holocaust denialism and World War II revisionism, through various websites.

The investigation began in mid-2021 following a complaint from the Delegation of Argentine Israelite Associations (DAIA). We received a complaint about a website that disseminated anti-Semitic content online, said Commissioner Fabian Villagra, head of the Terrorist Investigations Unit of the Argentine Federal Police. The investigations lasted almost two years. Initially, we had a user name, to which we managed to put name, surname, and [identity] document. Then we arrived at the persons home where the material was being printed. The man, who has not been identified by the authorities, had been distributing the books on Mercado Libre, the largest online trading platform in South America. When his account was terminated, he continued through a webpage of his own.

'The SS calls you,' one of the titles available on the detainee's website.

The detainees website, Libreria Argentina, remains online and offers a catalog of hundreds of titles. His website describes itself as specialized in war themes related to the two World Wars and the political, philosophical, and spiritual movements at work in them. Describing the catalog as marginalized books from the most popular bookstores regardless of their inclination, some of the first titles on the list are related to fascism and Aryan ethics.

During the raid in the municipality of San Isidro, in the wealthy northern suburbs of Buenos Aires, authorities seized 222 books, 140 covers for unprinted copies, and two office printers. The haul seized by federal detectives was displayed Wednesday in a room at the headquarters of the Mounted Police Corps in the Argentine capital. Among the titles confiscated were various editions of Mein Kampf and a recruitment manual titled The SS calls you!

Investigators also found a wide variety of titles from around twenty different publishers, ranging from Holocaust denial and the bombing of Gernika by Nazi Germany and Francisco Francos Nationalists in Spain, to apocryphal biographies of American automobile magnate Henry Ford and Argentine anti-Jewish pamphlets. Many of the books displayed symbols such as swastikas, the Reichsadler  the imperial eagle of German National Socialism  and the Iron Crosses, a military decoration used by the Nazis during World War II.

The police used the latter to prosecute the crime under a law against discriminatory acts. The mere exhibition of this type of symbology constitutes an infraction as it justifies, vindicates and even venerates the atrocities committed by the Nazi National Socialist regime against the Jewish community, the authorities said in a statement.

Some of the titles seized by the Buenos Aires Police. POLICIA DE BUENOS AIRES

It is incredible that there are people producing this type of material, and worrying that there are people who consume it. That is the challenge we have to work on, said Marcos Cohen, a DAIA vice-president, during the announcement.

Libreria Argentina will no longer be able to receive orders from customers, but many of its books are still circulating online in a word-of-mouth market among comments on other, less explicit titles. Hello! I just bought this book, by any chance do you have The SS calls you! SS-Hauptmat Sieghels Edition? asks one user in a post on the same e-commerce site used by the detainee. The seller replies: Hello, good morning. Yes, we have it, but it cannot be published on Mercado Libre. We will write you privately to tell you how [it can be obtained]. If you have any queries, please contact us.
New Delhi, Sep 13 (PTI) A man allegedly assaulted his 27-year-old wife with a sharp-edged weapon in northeast Delhi's Dayalpur area, police said on Wednesday.

Salma, a resident of Moonga Nagar, was assaulted at her home around 6 pm, they said.

"She suffered an injury to her head. She is being treated at the Jag Pravesh Hospital. Her condition is stable," Deputy Commissioner of Police (Northeast) Joy Tirkey said.

"Her husband, Azim, is at large. A case of attempt to murder is being registered at the Dayalpur police station," the DCP said and added that a search is underway to apprehend the accused.
Westerly, RI (02891)

Today

Partly cloudy early followed by cloudy skies overnight. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 37F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy early followed by cloudy skies overnight. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 37F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.




Mexican politicians on Tuesday were shown two mummified corpses which a self-proclaimed UFO expert asserted were a clear demonstration of extraterrestrial beings not of this world.

The two enigmatic bodies, characterized by their three-fingered hands and elongated heads reminiscent of typical depictions of extraterrestrial beings, were prominently displayed in windowed containers during a public congressional hearing dedicated to the discussion of unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs).

According to ufologist Jaime Maussan, who addressed the hearing, these cadavers have been dated to be between 700 and 1,800 years old. X-ray scans of one of the bodies unveiled the presence of mysterious eggs within it, adding to the intrigue of the discovery.

Maussan, while addressing the congressional panel, made a bold assertion: These specimens are not part of our terrestrial evolution. He cited supposed DNA testing conducted on the diminutive figures to support his claim.

These arent beings that were discovered following a UFO crash. They were found in diatom (algae) mines and subsequently became fossilized, he explained.

The ancient remains were reportedly unearthed in Cusco, Peru, back in 2017.

Recent scientific examinations of the UFO-related specimens at the Autonomous National University of Mexico yielded DNA evidence, thanks to radiocarbon dating techniques, as elucidated by Maussan. These perplexing discoveries were showcased alongside a collection of videos featuring UFO sightings and other unidentified anomalous occurrences.

The primary objective of the hearing was to deliberate on the inclusion of provisions pertaining to these phenomena in the Aerial Space Protection Law. If ratified, this legislation would mark Mexico as the worlds first country to formally acknowledge the presence of extraterrestrial entities on Earth.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




A New Yorker upset that the city has been housing homeless migrants on his suburban block has set up a loudspeaker to deliver an unwelcoming message to his new neighbors: The community wants you to go back to New York City. Immigrants are not safe here.

The message, recorded in six languages, blares all day from a loudspeaker on Scott Herkerts well-groomed front lawn on Staten Island, urging migrants brought to a temporary shelter inside a long-vacant Roman Catholic high school not to get off the bus. The message also claims the building has rats and cockroaches.

It is one of several ways some people have let shelter residents know they are not welcome on Staten Island, which, despite what the recording says, is part of New York City. Hundreds of protesters have also held a large rally outside the former school, urging the city to house migrants elsewhere.

The women and families placed by the city inside the former Saint John Villa Academy have heard the message loud and clear.

We have to close our eyes and close our ears, said Aminetou El Alewai, a 39-year-old woman from Mauritania who moved into the shelter last week. We are good people. We are not criminals. We came because we have problems in our country.

As thousands of migrants continue to arrive in New York City, officials have scrambled to open new emergency shelters, turning to tent facilities, school gyms and parks to comply with a state law requiring housing for the homeless. Though Staten Island is home to only a small fraction of those shelters, they have generated an outsize share of animosity.

The hostile reception coincides with increasingly dire rhetoric from Mayor Eric Adams, who warned last week that the migrant crisis would destroy New York City. The Democrat has insisted that the more than 100,000 who have arrived so far are welcome, but he has said the cost of housing tens of thousands of people could be as much as $12 billion over the next three years. Adams has rejected allegations from advocates of using migrants as props in an ongoing bid for federal money.

Staten Island is known for leaning conservative and Republican in a mostly liberal, Democratic city.

Herkert, a New York state court system employee, also has a tarp on his lawn painted with a profane version of the phrase, No way! Gesturing at the largely empty street in front of his home Tuesday, Herkert said the new shelter has upended his blocks quiet charm and brought toilets and dumpsters to the other side of his fence.

While the loudspeaker message  in Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Urdu, Chinese and English  warns that the former school is infested with roaches and mold, Alewai said she has found it to be perfectly clean, if a bit uncomfortable.

As Alewai spoke to Associated Press reporters on a sidewalk, parents picked up their children from a neighboring private school, directing nervous glances and, in one case, harsh words at the new arrivals.

I am sorry for the trouble of the woman who was just talking, Alewai said in French. I came as a refugee to New York and they brought me here. Indeed, I am not comfortable here.

Both employees and residents of the shelter said protesters have cursed at and threatened them, frequently playing loud music late into the night. Employee and lifelong Queens native Gabrielle Dasilva said she was recently told to go back to her home country.

A spokesperson for the mayors office, Kayla Mamelak, said the administration was disturbed to learn about the false messages being played outside the St. Johns Villa Academy respite site and police are working to maintain the peace in the area.

As always, New York City continues to provide care for asylum seekers with compassion and care, she said.

City Councilman David Carr, a Republican who attended Saint John Villa Academy, defended the audio recording as protected First Amendment activity and said his constituents have good reason to worry about the high cost of housing migrants.

This is an opportunity for folks in the neighborhood who are angry to demonstrate that constructively, Carr said. Theyre just trying to ensure that their voices are heard.

John Tabacco, a right-wing media personality and candidate for city comptroller, said he collaborated on the effort with Herkert and the loudspeakers messages have clearly resonated with neighbors.

There have been a lot of concerned citizens out there, and theyve been spending a lot of time doing some good old fashioned civil disobedience, he said.

Around the corner, John Gurriera, a 72-year-old resident of Staten Island, said he was disappointed by the reaction from some of his neighbors, which he described as not very Christian.

This is New York City, he added. We all came from someplace else.

(AP)




The wife of Mexican drug kingpin Joaquin El Chapo Guzman was released from federal custody on Wednesday after completing a three-year sentence for helping him run his multibillion-dollar criminal empire, the federal Bureau of Prisons said.

Emma Coronel Aispuro, who pleaded guilty in 2021 to three federal offenses as part of a plea deal with federal prosecutors, had been moved from a Texas prison to a California halfway house prior to her release. She will now serve four years of supervised release.

Coronel Aispuro expressed true regret for any and all harm when she was sentenced after pleading guilty to charges including money laundering conspiracy and engaging in transactions with a foreign narcotics trafficker.

She also helped her husband plan a dramatic escape through a tunnel dug underneath a prison in Mexico in 2015 by smuggling to him a GPS watch disguised as a food item, prosecutors have said. That helped those digging the tunnel pinpoint his location and reach him.

El Chapo, the leader of the Sinaloa cartel, was recaptured the following year. He was sentenced to life behind bars in a U.S. prison in 2019 for a massive drug conspiracy that spread murder and mayhem for more than two decades. He insisted his trial in New York wasnt fair and told the judge his case was stained.

(AP)




House Speaker Kevin McCarthys sudden decision to launch an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden has won over even the most reluctant Republicans, with some GOP lawmakers pushing for it to move quickly rather than drag into the 2024 election year.

McCarthy opened and closed a private meeting Wednesday of House Republicans justifying his reasoning for the inquiry sought by former President Donald Trump, the partys frontrunner to challenge Biden next year.

The White House mobilized to fight what it called the unprecedented, unfounded claims against the president regarding his son, Hunter, and the family finances.

In a 14-page memo to news media leaders, the White House urged them to hold Republicans accountable for the fact that they are lurching toward impeachment over allegations that are not only unfounded but, in virtually all cases, have been actively disproven.

They have turned up no evidence, said White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. This is a political stunt.

The moment is a politically pivotal one for the embattled Republican speaker McCarthy whose job is targeted by Trumps right-flank allies mounting a daily effort to oust him.

Other Republicans are girding for a monthslong inquiry that could result in articles of impeachment against Biden next year, in the middle of the presidential campaign. McCarthy has already signaled potential charges of abuse of power, corruption and obstruction in announcing the inquiry.

Theres a lot of accusations out there you just want the answers to, McCarthy told reporters at the Capitol. Impeachment inquiry simply allows Congress, Republicans and Democrats, to be able to get the answers to the questions.

In the inquiry, House Republicans are trying to link Biden to the business dealings of his son, Hunter Biden, and deflect attention away from Trumps own legal peril as the two men battle anew for the White House. Trump is the only president to be twice impeached  acquitted both times  and he is the first to face criminal charges in four separate indictments, including for trying to overturn the 2020 election he lost to Biden.

The White House has said that Joe Biden was not involved in his sons business affairs. And so far, Republicans have unearthed no significant evidence of wrongdoing by the elder Biden, who spoke often to his son and as vice president did stop by a business dinner with his sons associates.

The sooner the better to go after Biden, some GOP lawmakers feel.

I hope we can get it through as quickly as possible, said Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., the chairman of the Oversight Committee leading the impeachment inquiry.

Comer and the other House chairmen involved in the impeachment inquiry headed across the Capitol to privately brief Senate Republicans. They spent nearly an hour walking Senate Republicans through the evidence they said they had gathered in the past eight months. Some members, like first-term Sen. Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, said it was the first time they had heard many of the allegations.

Afterward Sen. John Thune of South Dakota, the No. 2 Republican, said the briefing left him feeling theres enough smoke there that there are legitimate questions.

Republican Sen. Lindsay Graham said it was compelling what investigators have compiled thus far. But he and other senators said they urged Comer and the other House chairmen to solidify the process by holding a House vote to move forward with the inquiry.

I think theyd be better off having a vote. It does give it more legitimacy, Graham of South Carolina said.

With no vote to launch the inquiry, the impeachment probe is being done without formal House-passed ground rules. That allows Republicans to conduct the investigation in ways the Democrats say are not always transparent, releasing only partial information to the public.

On another front, McCarthys decision to launch the impeachment inquiry appears to have done little to appease conservative lawmakers he needs to win over for his more immediate task: Persuading the GOP majority to pass the federal spending bills needed to avoid a government shutdown in just over two weeks.

Hard-right Republicans still want McCarthy to slash federal spending below the levels he and Biden agreed to as part of a budget deal earlier this year. And that stand risks a federal shutdown if they dont fund the government by Sept. 30 when current money runs out.

Democrats are expected to oppose those Republican efforts as well as fight Bidens impeachment.

Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., who led the first impeachment of Trump, said McCarthys failure to bring the inquiry before the full House for a vote was an an acknowledgement that he lacks the support in his conference to move forward.

He is beholden to the more extreme elements, Schiff said as lawmakers returned to Washington late Tuesday. It is yet another indication of the weakness in the speakership and the degree by which he is manipulated by Donald Trump.

Yet moderate Republicans representing districts that Biden won in 2020 over Trump and who are most at risk in next years election generally were supportive of McCarthys decision to launch the impeachment probe.

I would have voted for it, said Rep. Mike Garcia, R-Calif., about the impeachment inquiry.

Garcia said, Theres smoke there so we have a requirement to go investigate that and see if theres fire there.

Rep. Nick LaLota of New York, another one of the Republicans from districts Biden won in 2022, said he wasnt worried about any backlash back home. I think my constituents deserve some answers, he said.

The freshmen lawmaker, along with other potential holdouts like Rep. Ken Buck, R-Colo., were offered private briefings from leadership this week in order to assuage any concerns.

Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla. said McCarthy didnt discuss a timeline for the impeachment inquiry.

I dont think there is a timeline because you dont have a predetermined outcome, Cole said. You do it until you think youve got the truth or you dont and cant go any further.

On the government-funding issue, its really the number one thing we have to get done by the end of the month, said Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., exiting Wednesdays meeting.

McCarthy does not appear to have a viable plan to keep the government open, several lawmakers said.

One plan McCarthy is floating for averting a shutdown is to ask the House to approve as many spending bills as possible at the lower levels Republicans want and push them on the Senate, which is run by Democrats, in hopes of forcing a compromise.

A massive House Republican bill to fund the Defense Department and related military affairs is scheduled for a vote this week, but its unclear if the House will be able to pass it. The chamber came to a standstill by afternoon as a key test vote Wednesday was in jeopardy.

The Republicans are trying to tack on amendments including to eliminate funding for Ukraine and cut down the Pentagons diversity, equity and inclusions offices. One amendment would reduce Defense Secretary Lloyd Austins salary to $1.

Democrats are expected to vote against those as well as impeachment if the inquiry gets that far.

(AP)




Hunter Biden has filed a lawsuit against Garrett Ziegler, a former White House aide in the Trump administration, for his purported involvement in disseminating what the lawsuit claims to be tens of thousands of emails, thousands of photos, and dozens of videos and recordings belonging to the son of President Joe Biden, as reported by ABC News on Wednesday.

The lawsuit, which was filed on Hunter Bidens behalf, accuses Ziegler, who served as an aide to White House trade adviser Peter Navarro, of allegedly engaging in improper activities related to computer data. Specifically, Ziegler is accused of accessing, tampering with, manipulating, altering, copying, and damaging computer data that they do not own, actions that are alleged to be in violation of the states computer fraud laws.

The content in question reportedly originates from Hunter Bidens infamous laptop, which had been left at a Delaware repair shop. Initially, the authenticity of the laptops contents was a subject of dispute, with claims of Russian disinformation circulating, particularly in the lead-up to the 2020 election. However, several media outlets, including the Washington Examiner, the Washington Post, and the New York Times, have since confirmed the contents as authentic.

The lawsuit offers a detailed account of how Ziegler, along with ten other unnamed defendants, allegedly obtained and subsequently disseminated data belonging to Hunter Biden.

Hunter Biden is seeking a jury trial to determine suitable damages and an injunction to halt Ziegler from further accessing or tampering with his data.

In a statement provided to ABC News, attorneys for Hunter Biden said, While Defendant Ziegler is entitled to his extremist and counterfactual opinions, he has no right to engage in illegal activities to advance his right-wing agenda. Yet that is precisely what Defendant Ziegler and his so-called nonprofit research group  have done.

The lawsuit further alleges that Ziegler regularly brag[s] about their illegal activities in interviews with members of the media, on social media, and on right-wing podcasts.

This lawsuit follows Hunter Bidens previous legal action, where he sued John Paul Mac Isaac, the owner of the computer repair shop, claiming that Isaac did not have the legal right to disseminate private information.

The recent legal move by Hunter Biden comes on the heels of House Speaker Kevin McCarthys announcement of directing a House committee to initiate an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden regarding his familys business dealings.

Last month, a potential plea agreement between Hunter Biden and the Justice Department fell apart after both sides failed to finalize the terms. Hunter Biden faces charges of failing to pay taxes on income exceeding $1.5 million in 2017 and 2018, despite owing over $100,000 in taxes. Additionally, he may also face a gun-related charge.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




In early June, a self-proclaimed Neo-Nazi was seen hanging banners with swastikas and other antisemitic and hate-filled material on a bridge near Orlando, Florida. Such displays have become increasingly prevalent over the past few years, but thanks to a new bill, supported by Agudath Israel, that makes anti-religious or -ethnic actions illegal, the police were now able to arrest the perpetrator.

HB 269 expanded the definition of hate crimes to include distributing flyers, stalking, and displaying images on others property, if any of the above shows religious or ethnic enmity and increased the penalty for such actions. Agudath Israel supported the bill in all stages, in March, Rabbi Avrohom Luban, associate director of Agudath Israels Florida Office, testified before the Criminal Justice Committee in support of the bill. He stressed the impact antisemitic imagery and actions has on young children.

When the Bill was proposed, we immediately showed our support. We need to protect our communities; we need to protect our children, said Rabbi Luban. We are grateful that the State of Florida is exercising a zero-tolerance policy and that they took tangible action to help ensure our safety.

We are grateful for everyone who made this a reality, said Rabbi Moshe Matz, executive director of Agudath Israels Florida Office. To State Representatives Mike Caruso and Randy Fine and State Senator Alexis Calatayud who proposed the bill, to the Legislature who passed it unanimously, to Governor Ron DeSantis who championed and signed the bill, and especially to our law enforcement officers who are dedicated to keeping us safe.




Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet billionaire businessman Elon Musk during a trip to the United States next week, the Israeli leaders office said Thursday.

Netanyahus office declined to discuss the agenda for their meeting, which is due on Monday. It comes at a time when Musk is facing accusations of tolerating antisemitic messages on his social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

The Anti-Defamation League has accused Musk of allowing antisemitism and hate speech to spread on X. Its director, Jonathan Greenblatt, said Musk had amplified the messages of neo-Nazis and white supremacists who want to ban the league by engaging with them recently on X.

In a Sept. 4 post, Musk claimed that the league was trying to kill this platform by falsely accusing it & me of being anti-Semitic. In other posts, he said the league was responsible for a 60% drop in revenue at X and said his company would have no choice but to file a defamation lawsuit against the group.

Oh the irony! he wrote. As of Thursday, he has not followed through on this threat.

X, however, did file a lawsuit against another group that has studied the proliferation of hate speech on the platform.

In August, it sued the nonprofit Center for Countering Digital Hate, accusing it of violating Xs terms of service by improperly collecting a vast amount of data for its analysis. The lawsuit claims the groups research highlighting an increase in hate speech on the former Twitter since Musk took over cost the company millions of dollars of advertising revenue.

But analysts who track Twitter have argued that Musks chaotic changes to the platform  including jettisoning its well-known brand name  have led to a decline in interest from advertisers.

Greenblatt says his group is willing to work with X and last week met with the companys chief executive, Linda Yaccarino. Both Musk and Yaccarino have recently posted messages saying they oppose antisemitism.

Netanyahu is scheduled to travel to San Francisco on Monday before heading to New York, where he is expected to address the U.N. General Assembly and meet with President Joe Biden.

(AP)
In Libya it seems easier to count the dead than to organize elections and count votes. Storm Daniel hit the east of the country on Saturday and overnight on Sunday, vast amounts of rainwater caused the rupture of two dams outside Derna, the fourth most-populated city in the country with around 120,000 inhabitants. Suddenly, two politically and administratively divided governments that barely maintain relations to handle such basic matters as the payment of salaries or pensions have had to forge an agreement to deal with the deaths of more than 5,300 people in Derna, the search for 11,000 people who are missing and the displacement of a further 20,000. The fragility of the countrys infrastructures runs parallel to the weakness of the institutions in a country of 6.7 million inhabitants, which is in a position to have one of the highest per capita incomes in the Arab world due to its oil reserves.

The division of the two governments has not provoked the incident, but it has aggravated the lack of appropriate response, Antoine Basbous, founder of the France-based Observatory of Arab Countries, tells EL PAIS via email. A Libyan resident with knowledge of the situation, who has requested anonymity, states that it took almost 48 hours for cooperation between the two governments to come into effect. Eventually, on Wednesday, the administration that governs the western region of the country announced aid packages of $412 million for reconstruction efforts and $103 million to be distributed among the victims.

Infrastructures are badly damaged throughout the country, the same source says. To give an example, Tripolis international airport is unable to operate normally.

Victims of the floods in Derna, September 12. ESAM OMRAN AL-FETORI (REUTERS)

The joy experienced in Tripoli in October 2011 when the dictator Muammar Gaddafi was overthrown proved to be the beginning of a nightmare that sparked a civil war and gave rise to the horrifying phenomenon of migrant smuggling. Western Libya is in the hands of Prime Minister Abdelhamid Dabeiba, whose main support comes from Turkey and Qatar. The eastern region is controlled by Field Marshal Khalifa Hafter, 80, who counts Egypt, Russia and the United Arab Emirates among his allies.

Dabeiba is a 61-year-old millionaire businessman whose family became rich during the Gaddafi dictatorship. Hafter, whose staunchest supporter is Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, sees himself as predestined to save the Libyan people. His true strength was put to the test on April 4, 2019, when he planted himself on the outskirts of Tripoli with a column of 300 vehicles backed by the Air Force. His intention was to take the capital, but after 14 months of fighting with hundreds of deaths on both sides, Hafter retreated into his eastern fiefdom. The country was then returned to its schizophrenic status quo: two administrations that do not recognize each other and an increasingly powerful and cruel human trafficking industry. Presidential and legislative elections were scheduled for December 2021 but were postponed. More than 18 months later, there is still no date set for them.

Claudia Gazzini, a member of the International Crisis Group analysis center, argues that since the fall of Gaddafi in 2011, and during 10 years of clashes between the eastern and western factions in the country, both governments have neglected infrastructure. Its not just about these dams, Gazzini told German broadcaster DW, but also bridges and roads. And not only in the east, but also in the west. I would not blame corruption, but rather say that this is the collateral effect of a country at war where the two governments are more interested in proclaiming their legitimacy than in managing and rebuilding.

General view of the destruction caused by the floods in Derna, September 12, 2023. Abdullah Mohammed Bonja (Anadolu Agency / Getty)

In the same vein, analyst Tim Eaton, of the Chatham House think tank, believes that the disaster was magnified by man-made failings. Speaking to the Financial Times, Eaton cites a report published last year in a journal produced by Libyas Sebha University, which warned that the studied area was at risk of flooding because of the poor maintenance of the dams. Therefore, immediate measures must be taken for routine maintenance of the dams, because in the event of a big flood, the consequences will be disastrous for the residents of the valley and the city, the study noted.

The analyst told the FT that there are some 140 government institutions divided between east and west, between two parallel administrations. So you can just imagine how difficult its going to be to have what is clearly going to need to be a wide-ranging response, he added.




Donald Trump will not face trial next month in Georgia after a judge ruled Thursday that the former president and 16 others accused of illegally trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election will be tried separately from two lawyers in the case.

Lawyers Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro had filed demands for a speedy trial, and Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee set their trial to begin Oct. 23. Trump and other defendants had asked to be tried separately from Powell and Chesebro, with some saying they could not be ready by the late October trial date.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis last month obtained an indictment against Trump and the 18 others, charging them under the states anti-racketeering law and accusing them of participating in an illegal scheme to deny Democrat Joe Bidens victory over the Republican incumbent. All of those charged have pleaded not guilty.

Willis had been pushing to try all 19 defendants together, arguing that it would be fairer and more efficient. McAfee cited the tight timetable, among other issues, as a factor in his decision to separate Trump and 16 others from Powell and Chesebro.

The precarious ability of the Court to safeguard each defendants due process rights and ensure adequate pretrial preparation on the current accelerated track weighs heavily, if not decisively, in favor of severance, McAfee wrote. He added that it may be necessary to further divide the remaining 17 defendants into smaller groups for trial.

The development is likely welcome news to other defendants looking to avoid being tied by prosecutors to Powell, who perhaps more than anyone else in the Trump camp was vocal about publicly pushing baseless conspiracy theories linking foreign governments to election interference.

Another defendant in the Atlanta case, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, has sought to distance himself from Powell and spoke at length about her in an interview with special counsel Jack Smiths team in Washington, according to a person familiar with his account who was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.

Also, Trump-aligned lawyer Eric Herschmann, who in 2020 pushed back against efforts to undo the election, told the congressional committee investigating the riot at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, that he regarded Powells ideas as nuts.

Chesebro and Powell had sought to be tried separately from each other, but the judge also denied that request.

Chesebro is accused of working on the coordination and execution of a plan to have 16 Georgia Republicans sign a certificate declaring falsely that Trump won and declaring themselves the states duly elected and qualified electors. Powell is accused of participating in a breach of election equipment in rural Coffee County.

The nearly 100-page indictment details dozens of alleged acts by Trump or his allies to undo his 2020 loss in Georgia, including suggesting the secretary of state, a Republican, could help find enough votes for Trump to win the battleground state; harassing an election worker who faced false claims of fraud; and attempting to persuade Georgia lawmakers to ignore the will of voters and appoint a new slate of electors favorable to Trump.

McAfee said he was skeptical of prosecutors argument that trying all 19 defendants together would be more efficient. He noted that the Fulton County courthouse does not have a courtroom big enough to hold 19 defendants, their lawyers and others who would need to be present, and relocating to a bigger venue could raise security concerns.

Prosecutors also had said that because each defendant is charged under the states Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, or RICO Act, the state plans to call the same witnesses and present the same evidence for any trial in the case. They told the judge last week that they expect any trial would take four months, not including jury selection.

But McAfee pointed out that each additional defendant increases the time needed for opening statements and closing arguments, cross-examination and evidentiary objections. Thus, even if the States case remains identical in length, and the aggregate time invested by the Court is increased, the burden on the jurors for each individual trial is lessened through shorter separate trials, he wrote.

The judge said that to satisfy the demands by Powell and Chesebro for a speedy trial, he will try to have a jury seated by Nov. 3. With each additional defendant involved in the voir dire process, an already Herculean task becomes more unlikely, he wrote.

McAfee also pointed to the fact that five defendants are currently seeking to move their cases to federal court and litigation on that issue is ongoing. If they were to succeed midway through a trial in state court, its not clear what the impact would be, McAfee wrote.

U.S. District Judge Steve Jones last week rejected a bid by Mark Meadows, Trumps last White House chief of staff, to move his case to federal court; Meadows is appealing that ruling. The other four have hearings before Jones scheduled next week.

Meadows and three of the others had asked McAfee to halt state court proceedings while their efforts to move to federal court are pending. The judge denied that request.

Meadows had also asked the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to stay the order sending his case back to state court while his appeal was pending. Meadows later withdrew that request, citing the appeals courts approval of an expedited review and the scheduling order that McAfee entered for the defendants who will not be tried next month.

Also Thursday, McAfee held a motions hearing for Chesebro and Powell, both of whom are seeking the names of unindicted co-conspirators mentioned in the indictment and are trying to speak with the grand jurors who returned the indictment. Chesebro wants transcripts, recordings and reports from a special grand jury that aided the investigation.

Prosecutors agreed to disclose the names of the unindicted co-conspirators but objected to the other two requests. McAfee said he would rule on those two matters later.

(AP)




For the first time in Israeli history, armed guards will be stationed outside every shul in Jerusalem during the upcoming Yamim Tovim as Israel Police complete their preparations to ensure the safety of Israelis amid an uptick in terror.

Jerusalem District Police Commander Doron Turgeman warned on Wednesday of an escalation of terror warnings throughout Israel  especially in Jerusalem and Yehudah and Shomron  during the Chagim in Tishrei.

Theres an increase in [terror] alerts and many threats of attacks on the days of Selichos and Chol Hamoed and the Chagim, Turgeman said, adding that the police are focusing on sensitive spots in Jerusalem such as the Kosel and Har HaBayis.

At the Kosel plaza, the number of participants will be almost 20,000 people at any given time. As soon as the site is full, the police will stop entry from Shaar Yafo and the other gates. There will be dynamic crowd routing that will allow Muslims and Jews to ascend to Har HaBayis without harming each other.

Israeli security officials reported that in recent days, there have been warnings of about 200 terror attacks every day, as well as a marked increase in terror activity on Palestinian social media networks. The incitement is mainly focused on Jerusalem and Yehudah and Shomron, with acension to Har HaBayis the hottest topic.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




Nobel Prize winner Prof. Yisrael Aumann, who supports the governments plan for judicial reform, told Kan News on Wednesday that a military coup is already taking place in Israel.

Responding to a question about how the escalating tensions between the left and right in Israel can be solved, Aumann said, I dont know. I want to wish that the year with its curses will end and a year with brachos should begin but I dont know how to settle [the disputes].

I see very worrying signs among the opposing side. Their symbol is a fist, correct? Thats not good.

I want to say  I wont participate in a civil war, Ill raise my hands like Menachem Begin and the Altalena [ship]. But in my opinion, it wont reach that point.

Aumann added that despite the fact that a right-wing government is supposedly in power, the protesters have the upper hand. I think that ultimately the power lies with the protesters. The police listen to the protesters, the army listens to them. It seems to me that the protesters have more power than the government. The government is not so governing over the centers of power. If were going to be a military dictatorship under the mantle of the Supreme Court, then fine  its not on the brink of a military coup  were already in the coup. The army is simply supporting the protesters.

Moving from the topic of Israeli in-fighting, Aumann said he is even more concerned by the worrying rise in anti-Semitism around the world. What worries me more than the severe internal dispute is the increase in anti-Semitism all over the world. You see it in universities in England and Europe, but mainly in the US. Today it is politically correct to be anti-Semitic.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




The United States should use its influence to help win the freedom of a Russian-Israeli academic at Princeton University who went missing in Iraq nearly six months ago and is believed to be held by an Iran-backed militia regarded by Washington as a terrorist group, her sister said Wednesday.

The current level of pressure is unsatisfactory. Its just not enough, Emma Tsurkov said in an interview with The Associated Press. My sister is languishing at the hands of this terror organization. And its been almost six months.

Elizabeth Tsurkov, a 36-year-old doctoral student whose work focuses on the Middle East and specifically Syria and Iraq, disappeared in Baghdad, the Iraqi capital, in March while doing research.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office has said she is being held by the Shiite group Kataeb Hezbollah or Hezbollah Brigades, whose leader and founder died in the American airstrike in January 2020 that also killed Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the commander of Irans elite Quds Force and the architect of Tehrans regional military alliances. The Hezbollah group has close ties to the Iraqi government.

Emma Tsurkov is working to draw attention to her sisters fate, meeting in Washington this week with the State Department and Israeli and Russian government officials. She had hoped to have a separate meeting at the Iraqi Embassy but said officials there blew me off. The embassy did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

I really never wanted to do any of this. But I realized that everyone is interested but no one is going to do anything to actually bring her home, said Emma Tsurkov, 35, a sociology researcher at Stanford University. And everyone is just hoping that someone else does, passing the buck. But at the end of the day, I dont see anything being done to bring my sister back.

Elizabeth Tsurkov is not a U.S. citizen, limiting the tools at the American governments disposal and the direct ability of Washington officials to secure her release. But Emma Tsurkov contends that the U.S. government still has substantial influence given that her sister has significant U.S. ties as a graduate student in an American institution that is approved and funded for research.

She said she made the case to a State Department official during a meeting on Monday that the U.S. governments massive financial support to Iraq gives it leverage it should use. Washington gives significant military aid to Iraq as part of a shared interest in ensuring the countrys security, confronting the Islamic State group and preventing Iran from gaining more influence in the country.

Central to the anti-IS efforts are the Popular Mobilization Forces, an umbrella group for a number of Iran-backed militias, including Kataeb Hezbollah, the group believed to have kidnapped Tsurkov.

A State Department spokesman had no immediate response to the Tsurkov case when asked about it at a briefing Wednesday.

Emma Tsurkov is also set to meet this week with officials at Princeton, which she says has not been vocal enough in its support of her sister.

In a statement, Princeton spokesman Michael Hotchkiss said the university was deeply concerned about Elizabeth Tsurkovs well-being and called her a valued member of the University community. He said that after learning of her disappearance, the school immediately communicated with U.S. and Israeli government officials.

Elizabeths family subsequently asked that the University not involve government officials in the interest of keeping the matter private, he said. Once the situation became public, the University has and continues to communicate with relevant government officials and experts to understand how we can best support Elizabeths safe return to her family and her studies at Princeton.

The sisters, daughters of dissidents, were born a year apart in the former Soviet Union and moved with their family as young girls to Israel. They are so closely connected that they texted daily while Elizabeth Tsurkov was in Baghdad. Emma Tsurkov said she knew something was amiss because her sister would always quickly respond to text message photographs of her son, Elizabeth Tsurkovs only nephew.

She didnt respond. And I get worried after a few hours, but then when it reached 12 hours, I knew something must be wrong, she said. There is no way that she would be okay, and not respond to that.

Elizabeth Tsurkovs last post on Twitter, now known as X, was on March 21, when she recirculated a photograph of pro-Kurdistan protesters in Syria. Emma Tsurkov said it was her understanding that her sister went to a coffee shop in Baghdads central neighborhood of Karradah, days after having spinal cord surgery, and did not return.

Now, she said, the sisters are facing the prospect of being apart during Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year and a holiday the family always commemorated together.

This is, she said, the type of nightmare I wish on no one.

(AP)




Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with 32 Chabad shlichim and Rabbanim in his office on Thursday in a special event ahead of Rosh Hashanah.

It was the first time such a meeting took place since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began. Fifteen Jewish soldiers from various cities also attended the event and received special medals of excellence from Zelensky for their bravery at the front.

At the beginning of the meeting, Zelsneky warmly praised the assistance of the Federation of Jewish Communities in Ukraine (FJCU), which organized the event, as well as the devotion of the Chabad shlichim who remained with their communities in Ukraine despite the travails of the war.

The chairman of the FJCU, Rav Meir Stambler, said, pointing to those present, that the 32 rabbis present at the meeting are representatives of over 200 families of Chabad shlichim living in the country who linked their fate with that of Ukraine. We deal with things that we never thought we would deal with  like you, Mr. Zelensky  together with our families, thousands of volunteers and hundreds of community leaders  to assist each and every one of us in this difficult time. We were brought up to give and be devoted to others.

He was followed by Rav Shmuel Kaminetsky  Chabad shliach and chief rabbi of the industrial city of Dnipro, known as the capital city of Ukrainian Jewry. Rav Kaminetsky spoke about the essence of Rosh Hashanah, congratulated Zelensky on his work for the country and told him that he greatly appreciates his investment for the sake of all citizens. You are a true leader and the Jewish communities support you and Ukraine with all their might, in the war of light against darkness. The Jews who live here have tied their fate with Ukraine and are contributing to its future.

Rav Moshe Moskowitz, the Rav of Kharkiv also spoke about the war against darkness and mentioned the words of the Lubavitcher Rabbi who saw the fall of communism as a sign of Yemos Moshiach. Thirty-five years after communism, we have developed a Jewish life here that flourishes despite everything, and this shows that the Geulah is just a moment away.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




Since Sunday morning United Hatzalahs disaster relief mission has been operating in Morocco.

The teams first goal was to assess the needs of the Moroccan people and coordinate efforts with the Moroccan government and community leaders so as to determine how best to assist in the wake of the earthquake last Friday.

After assessing where the organizations efforts could be best utilized, the decision was made to open medical clinics in villages in the Atlas Mountains that have not yet been able to receive medical care or humanitarian aid.

Our mission thus far has been a success, thanks to the coordination we had with the authorities here in Morocco, explained Deputy Director of Emergency Operations Linor Attias. As a result of that coordination we have identified the areas that have not yet received medical response and we are heading there. I want to thank everyone who was involved in helping us make this happen.

Early Thursday afternoon, the team had set up two medical clinics in different villages in the Atlas Mountains to treat injured and ill people.

There are still many villages deep in the mountains that have not yet received any medical or humanitarian aid, although in many places search and rescue crews are busy at work trying to rescue survivors from the rubble.

We chose the specific villages to set up our medical clinics in coordination with local leaders who told us that they have yet to receive medical care in their villages, Attias explained. We are coming to be a force multiplier for local services and assist where we people have not yet received aid and medical care.

The team, which will now focus on operating the medical clinics, is comprised of both Muslim and Jewish volunteers and includes two doctors, and a dozen EMTs and paramedics, several of whom are Arabic and French speakers. Three of the volunteers are also part of the organizations Psychotrauma and Crisis Response Unit and will be providing psychological first aid and stabilization where needed. Three other volunteers have expertise in search and rescue operations, including one firefighter, and one member of Israels search and rescue teams.

Our main objective now is to provide medical care and humanitarian aid, but we chose a diverse team with expertise in many areas in order to be able to respond to any situation that developed, said mission commander Yossi Amar. Our volunteers are a diverse group and we are utilizing that diversity to be able to best help the Moroccan people and speak to them in their own language while respecting their culture and traditions.

For one of the volunteers in the group, Sivan Menachem, the mission is personal. I lived in Morocco for many years, and my parents are still there, Sivan explained. Thankfully they were not injured by the earthquake, but many families were, and I am here to help them. Sivan, who lives in the small town of Ganei Yohanan just outside of Mazkeret Batya, dropped all of her plans for the foreseeable future once she heard about the mission to Morocco. This was something that I knew I needed to do, she concluded.

We have received the blessing of the local government to operate here and provide medical care to those in need, Amar said. The residents have been informed that we are here and that whoever needs medical attention can come to us. So far in the village of Imi NTala where we opened our first clinic earlier today, we have treated dozens of people for sprains, broken bones, dehydration, medical illnesses requiring antibiotics, fevers, and many other conditions. We are coordinating with local ambulance teams and other first responders in the field and treating them as well when needed.

(Photo credit: United Hatzalah)
Sponsored Content





In this video, Rav Kolodetsky and his Rebbetzin verify that a gadol in klal Yisrael, the son of a gadol, is in distress and facing a severe situation of pikuach nefesh.

It is well known that Rav Chaim Kanievsky ztl blessed his daughter, Rebbetzin Kolodetsky, before he passed away, granting her the power to bless and ensure the fulfillment of her blessings. To that effect, the Rebbetzin made an extraordinary declaration saying that anyone who donates $375, the numerical equivalent of  , will be blessed with a prosperous year.

CLICK TO ADD A NAME!

Additionally, she will personally daven for each donor by name during candle lighting on both Erev Rosh Hashana and Erev Yom Kippur, petitioning for their success. They will also be mentioned during hafrashas challah.

Further, during aseres yemi teshuva, Harav Yitzchok Kolodetsky will be among ten tzadikim visiting Rav Chaim Kanievskys kever to daven for each donor. The Rebbetzin will also attend and pour her heart out. On Motzai Yom Kippur, during Neila in the United States, they will storm shomayim with tefillos for a prosperous year on behalf of those who have contributed $375.

Over the years, Harav Kolodetskys blessings have led to many widely recognized miracles worldwide. Undoubtedly, these will be exceptional occurrences, resulting in many salvations. Harav Kolodetsky and his Rebbetzin confirm that Rav Chaim will advocate on your behalf that a good decree should be upon you, and that you will have a year of happiness, success, shalom bayis and health.

Take advantage of these two incredible opportunities to secure a great year ahead! Here is your chance to significantly impact your future and start the new year with confidence!

CLICK HERE TO JOIN!
BP has been accused of turning a blind eye to Bernard Looneys toxic behaviour as it begins a search for his successor.

He abruptly quit as the oil giants chief executive this week after admitting he misled the board over a probe launched last year into his personal relationships with colleagues.

The company is under fire for appointing him chief executive in 2020 despite his reputation for relationships apparently being widespread.

Barbara Schonhofer, a leading advocate for women in business, said: Why was he hired in such a high-profile prominent leadership role in the first place?

Schonhofer, who leads ISC Group  an advocacy organisation for women in the insurance industry  questioned how much due diligence was done before Looneys appointment was announced in 2019, leaving the board to deal with the fall-out when the details of his private life emerged.

Ousted: Bernard Looney (pictured) quit as BP's chief exec this week after admitting he misled the board over a probe launched last year into his personal relationships with colleagues

How far do toxic leaders have to go before the decision is made that they must go? she said. This sort of behaviour would not be accepted or tolerated in a woman.

The comments came as BP chairman Helge Lund ruled himself out as Looneys successor.

BPs board was told about Looneys frolicking with colleagues by an anonymous whistleblower last year.

After he admitted to a small number of relationships and made assurances about his future behaviour, it was decided that he had not breached the companys code of conduct.

But further allegations surfaced last week, forcing him to admit he had not been fully transparent, and quitting his job immediately.

A fresh investigation has been launched by BP into Looneys behaviour. Sir Vince Cable, the former Business Secretary, has called for him to be stripped of the 8million in bonuses he received last year.

BP has appointed Murray Auchincloss, its chief financial officer, as interim boss. Auchincloss has a partner who also works at BP. The company said the relationship had been fully and appropriately disclosed including during his recruitment process. Auchincloss, a Canadian, has worked for BP since its takeover in 1998 of oil giant Amoco.

He is seen as one of the leading candidates for the top job, but faces competition from others within BP.

One source this week told Reuters that he was already the power behind the throne.

A BP spokesman said there had been a rigorous and thorough appointment process when Looney was handed the top job.
The following companies are subsidiares of BorgWarner: Akasol AG, B80 Italia S.r.l., BERU AG, BW El Salto S.A. De C.V., BWA Receivables Corporation, BWA Turbo Systems Holding LLC, Borg Warner Europe Holdings (PDS) B. V., BorgWarner (China) Investment Co. Ltd., BorgWarner (Reman) Holdings L.L.C., BorgWarner (Thailand) Limited, BorgWarner Aftermarket Europe GmbH, BorgWarner Alternators Inc., BorgWarner Arden LLC, BorgWarner Arnstadt RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Asia Inc., BorgWarner Automotive Asia Limited, BorgWarner Automotive Components (Beijing) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Jiangsu) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Wuhan) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Brasil Ltda., BorgWarner Chungju Co. LLC, BorgWarner Comercial e Distribuidora de Pecas para Veiculos Automotores Ltda., BorgWarner Comercializadora PDS S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner Componentes PDS S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner Cooling Systems (India) Private Limited, BorgWarner Cooling Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Diversified Transmission Products Services Inc., BorgWarner Drivetrain Engineering GmbH, BorgWarner Drivetrain Management Services de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Drivetrain de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Electric Motors L.L.C., BorgWarner Emissions Systems (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Emissions Systems (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Emissions Systems Holding LLC, BorgWarner Emissions Systems India Private Limited, BorgWarner Emissions Systems LLC, BorgWarner Emissions Systems Portugal Unipessoal LDA, BorgWarner Emissions Systems Spain S.L.U., BorgWarner Emissions Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner Emissions Talegaon Private Limited, BorgWarner Engineering Ketsch RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Engineering Kibo RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Esslingen GmbH, BorgWarner Europe GmbH, BorgWarner Europe Holding S.a. r. l., BorgWarner Gateshead Limited, BorgWarner Germany Holding GmbH, BorgWarner Germany Holding Services GmbH, BorgWarner Germany REH GmbH, BorgWarner Germany REM GmbH, BorgWarner Germany Verwaltungs GmbH, BorgWarner Global Holding S.a. r. l., BorgWarner Heidelberg I RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Heidelberg II RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Heidelberg REH GmbH, BorgWarner Heidelberg REM GmbH, BorgWarner Holding Inc., BorgWarner Holdings Limited, BorgWarner Hungary Kft., BorgWarner IT Services Europe GmbH, BorgWarner India Holdings Inc., BorgWarner Investment Holding Inc., BorgWarner Ithaca LLC, BorgWarner Ketsch Plant RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Ketsch REH GmbH, BorgWarner Ketsch REM GmbH, BorgWarner Kft., BorgWarner Kibo RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Korea Holdings (PDS) B.V., BorgWarner Korea Holdings LLC, BorgWarner Korea LLC, BorgWarner Limited, BorgWarner Ludwigsburg GmbH, BorgWarner Ludwigsburg RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Markdorf Plant RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Markdorf REH GmbH, BorgWarner Markdorf REM GmbH, BorgWarner Massachusetts Inc., BorgWarner Mauritius Holdings Ltd., BorgWarner Mexico Holding BV, BorgWarner Mexico Holdings II LLC, BorgWarner Mexico Holdings LLC, BorgWarner Morse Systems India Private Limited, BorgWarner Morse Systems Italy S.r.l., BorgWarner Morse Systems Japan K.K., BorgWarner Morse Systems Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Muggendorf RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner NW Inc., BorgWarner Netherlands Holdings (PDS) B.V., BorgWarner Oroszlany Kft., BorgWarner PDS (Anderson) L.L.C., BorgWarner PDS (Changnyeong) LLC, BorgWarner PDS (Indiana) Inc., BorgWarner PDS (Livonia) Inc., BorgWarner PDS (Ochang) LLC, BorgWarner PDS (Thailand) Limited, BorgWarner PDS (USA) Inc., BorgWarner PDS Brasil Produtos Automotivos Ltda., BorgWarner PDS Irapuato S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner PDS Mexico Holdings S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner PDS Technologies L.L.C., BorgWarner Poland Sp. z o.o., BorgWarner Pyongtaek LLC, BorgWarner Romeo Power LLC, BorgWarner Rzeszow Sp. z o.o., BorgWarner Shenglong (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner South Asia LLC, BorgWarner Southborough Inc., BorgWarner Spain Holding S.L.U, BorgWarner Sweden AB, BorgWarner Systems Lugo S.r.l., BorgWarner Thermal Systems Inc., BorgWarner Thermal Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner TorqTransfer Systems Beijing Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Tralee Ltd., BorgWarner Transmission Products LLC, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Arnstadt GmbH, BorgWarner Transmission Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Korea LLC, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Tulle S.A.S., BorgWarner Trustees Limited, BorgWarner Turbo & Emissions Systems France S.A.S., BorgWarner Turbo Systems Engineering GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems LLC, BorgWarner Turbo Systems Worldwide Headquarters GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner Turbo and Emissions Systems de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner UK Financing Ltd., BorgWarner UK Holding and Services Ltd., BorgWarner US Holding LLC, BorgWarner USA Industries L.L.C., BorgWarner United Transmission Systems Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Waterloo Inc., BorgWarner Wrexham Limited, Cascadia Motion LLC, Creon Insurance Agency Limited, Delphi Technologies, Dytech ENSA, Gustav Wahler GmbH u. Co. KG, Haldex, Kuhlman LLC, Kysor Europe Limited, M. & M. Knopf Auto Parts L.L.C., NSK-Warner (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., NSK-Warner K.K., NSK-Warner Mexico S.A. de C.V, NSK-Warner U.S.A. Inc., New PDS Corp., Old Remco Holdings L.L.C., Old Remco International Holdings L.L.C., Remy International, SeohanWarner Turbo Systems LLC, Sevcon, Sevcon New Energy Technology (Hubei) Company Limited, and Transmission Systems AutoForm LLC.

Read More
Yossi Beilin is the same age as Israel: 75. He was born in Petah Tikva (central district of Israel) a month after David Ben Gurion proclaimed Israels Declaration of Independence in 1948 and established a Jewish state that would take effect upon termination of the British Mandate. Beilins name is forever associated with the quest for peace with the Palestinians. As Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs under Shimon Peres in the Yitzhak Rabin administration, Beilin is considered the architect of the 30-year-old Oslo Accords between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Peres, Rabin and PLO chief Yasser Arafat received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1994 for the groundbreaking agreement.

Beilin opened a secret communication channel with the PLO and later worked with Mahmoud Abbas, the current Palestinian president, to outline a definitive peace agreement. After serving as Minister of Justice and Minister of Religious Affairs under Prime Minister Ehud Barak, he switched from the Labor Party to Meretz, the pacifist, left-wing party that he eventually led. He remained committed to promoting peace initiatives with the Palestinians, including the Geneva Initiative in 2003 and an Israeli-Palestinian confederation proposal that was largely ignored a year ago.

Talking about Oslos failure is difficult for Beilin  it was his brainchild, after all. Though designed to last five years and be supplanted by a permanent peace agreement, it is still in effect. He holds both Israelis and Palestinians responsible for the stubborn impasse that persists, but says that Hebron settler Baruch Goldstein struck a major blow to peace efforts when he murdered 29 Palestinians in a mosque. Jewish settlements are also a major obstacle. Despite the prevailing mood of pessimism in Israel, Beilin remains optimistic that peace can be achieved.

Question. How do you view Israel 30 years after the Oslo Accords?

Answer. There is no doubt that Israel has changed. The right-wing has dominated and actively works to undermine the Oslo Accords, albeit unofficially. There has been a considerable increase in settlements and settlers, which undoubtedly detracts from any potential political resolution. This has left Palestinians feeling disillusioned, with no visible political prospects. In Israel, the hope for peace has dwindled. The potential for peace is still there, but it seems like a very distant goal.

The Oslo Accords are still in effect, and that is its greatest failure. It shouldnt exist after 30 years. It was meant to conclude after five years, on May 4, 1999, and transition into a lasting agreement instead. However, the Oslo Accords ultimately became the official agreement.

No doubt, Israels right-wing exploited the international agreement by neglecting the day-to-day needs of occupied Palestinians  education, culture and their own police force. We created a deluxe occupation that cost us nothing, with no consideration for continuing Oslo or additional withdrawals of the Israeli army. The international community hardly even makes these demands anymore. The Palestinians, tragically, have become resigned to their limited options and this disappointment fuels the divide between Hamas and Fatah. The situation has changed due to all the new settlers in the West Bank, waning Israeli peace efforts, and the fading Palestinian hope for an independent state. The violence on both sides intensified after Oslo, starting with the First Intifada.

Q. Did all the parties  Americans, Israelis, Palestinians  view the Oslo Accords as an initial step towards a final solution that established a future Palestinian state?

A. I cannot speak for everyone, although I can say that it was certainly my intention. We didnt write anything about [what the final solution should be] and, of course, the Palestinian state was not mentioned in the accords.

Q. Why not?

A. The Palestinians themselves did not want the Palestinian state to be one of the five issues included in a final agreement, because it was taken for granted. They said, It [a state] is Palestines right to self-determination, which is why no mention of an independent state is needed at this point. It was convenient for us because Peres and Rabin were not keen on explicitly referencing the Palestinian state. They wanted to stress that it was a temporary agreement, not a final one. They wanted the public to understand that it wasnt a revolutionary move, but rather a work in progress. But it was revolutionary, because we formally recognized the PLO.

Yossi Beilin at his home in Tel Aviv; September 2023. Avishag Shaar-Yashuv

Q. Five years ago, you wrote, Its not accurate to say Oslo was a failure. What did you mean?

A. Failure means that the agreements elements or the partnership were not right. So, I dont see it as a failure. However, if you ask whether it achieved its objectives  obviously not. No one can say Oslo was a victory when it didnt achieve its objectives. Its like saying, The surgery was successful, but the patient died.

Q. Who is to blame?

A. The blame is shared. It started with Baruch Goldstein, thats clear. After 40 days of Muslim mourning, there was a significant increase in suicide terrorist attacks. The violence escalated rapidly, particularly on the Palestinian side, but the one who opened the gates of hell was Baruch Goldstein. Then, of course, Rabin was assassinated.

Im not a judge, Im a party to this. On the Israeli side, negotiations became difficult when people were killed. The publics anger was palpable, and people questioned our ability to engage with them. Palestinians felt Rabin didnt truly value the agreement. And Arafats speeches they didnt foster trust or progress either. Then, the Second Intifada began in 2000.

Q. As we discuss the past, why does peace now feel so distant?

A. Because of the settlements. And because of the rift between Hamas and Fatah, we feel like we have no viable counterpart for negotiations. However, Im convinced that resolving the settlement issue through a confederation can lead to a Palestinian state with clearly delineated borders. In this solution, most settlers would participate in a land swap, while the remaining settlers would become citizens of Israel and permanent residents of Palestine. Likewise, an equal number of Palestinians would have the opportunity to be permanent residents of Israel. But no future Israeli prime minister will be willing to pay the political price of evacuating the settlements  there are at least 100,000 settlers.

Q. Why has the view on peace shifted, to the point where it is seldom taken seriously?

A. Before the [Camp David] peace agreement with Egypt and the withdrawal from Sinai, there was significant opposition. When [Menachem] Begin returned from signing these accords in 1979, he had the support of 70% of the population. Prior to Oslo, most Israelis were against engaging with the PLO. This changed after the Oslo Accords. The role of leadership is crucial in these situations  the public generally follows their lead in matters of peace and war. When we have courageous leaders willing to take risks, as Rabin did, people tend to accept it.

Q. Is the Mahmoud Abbas who signed the Oslo Accords different from the man he is now?

A. He remains committed to peace and opposed to violence. Unfortunately, due to his political weakness and the schism with Hamas, Abbas has become increasingly autocratic. The lack of a Palestinian parliament means decisions are made by presidential order. The situation in the Palestinian Authority is troubling  its heavily dependent on the international community, and there is much corruption and a lack of trust in its leaders. If an Israeli leader emerges who is not beholden to the right wing and is willing to pursue peace, a genuine dialogue can be initiated with Abbas. The world would accept an endorsement from Abbas, which is a significant advantage. This Israeli leader could be someone like [opposition leader Benny] Gantz or [Yair] Lapid  he or she doesnt have to be another Moses.

Q. Considering last years elections, why do you believe Israel will change direction?

A. Since taking office, this administration has consistently been contrarian  public opinion polls frequently show that the majority supports the opposition. Its not that people have shifted dramatically from left to right. I believe that there are still good people who seek peace, but the population can be unduly swayed, occasionally too much.

Q. Are you optimistic?

A. I am not optimistic that peace will happen, but that it can happen.

Q. And what needs to be done to make it happen?

A. We will change this government. Its a government that will never move toward peace with the Palestinians because it is incapable of ceding Israeli territory. And that is the acid test  the whole issue is about territory. In a government that values territorial integrity above all, there is no room for discussion.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
North American Construction Group Ltd. provides equipment maintenance, and mining and heavy construction services in Canada, the United States, and Australia. Its Heavy Construction & Mining division offers constructability reviews, budgetary cost estimates, design-build construction, project management, contract mining, pre-stripping/pit pioneering, overburden removal and stockpile, muskeg removal and stockpile, site preparation, air strip construction, site dewatering/perimeter ditching, tailings and process pipelines, haulage and access road construction, tailings dam construction and densification, mechanically stabilized earth walls, dyke construction, and reclamation services; and Equipment Maintenance services. As of December 31, 2022, the company operated a heavy equipment fleet of 637 units. It serves resource development and industrial construction sectors. The company was formerly known as North American Energy Partners Inc. and changed its name to North American Construction Group Ltd. in April 2018. North American Construction Group Ltd. was founded in 1953 and is headquartered in Acheson, Canada.
Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. engages in the exploration of mineral properties in the United States. It holds a 100% interest in the Pebble Copper-Gold-Molybdenum-Silver-Rhenium project comprising 1,840 mineral claims that covers an area of approximately 274 square miles located in southwest Alaska, the United States. The company was formerly known as Northern Dynasty Explorations Ltd. and changed its name to Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. in October 1997. Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. was incorporated in 1983 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada.
Banco Santander (Brasil) S.A., together with its subsidiaries, provides various banking products and services to individuals, small and medium enterprises, and corporate customers in Brazil and internationally. The company operates through, Commercial Banking and Global Wholesale Banking segments. It offers deposits and other bank funding instruments; debit and credit cards; digital prepaid solutions; payment platform; loyalty programs; employee benefit vouchers; payroll loans; digital lending and online debt renegotiation platform; mortgages; home equity financing products; consumer credit; and local loans, commercial and trade finance, guarantees, structured loans, and cash management and funding solutions, as well as on-lending transfer services. It also provides financing and financial advisory services related to projects, origination and distribution of fixed income securities in the debt capital markets, financing of acquisitions and syndicated loans, other structured financing arrangements, and subordinated debts; and advisory services for mergers and acquisitions, and equity capital markets transactions. In addition, the company structures and offers foreign exchange, derivative, and investment products for institutional investors, and corporate and retail customers; and provides market making services. Further, it offers instant payment services; range of products and services focused on the agribusiness sector; and microfinance services, as well as digital trading platform. Additionally, it provides its financial services and products to its customers through multichannel distribution network comprising branches, mini-branches, ATMs, call centers, Internet banking, and mobile banking. Banco Santander (Brasil) S.A. was incorporated in 1985 and is headquartered in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Thanks to a new discovery linked to shares of Tesla, regular folks can now target gains of 100% or more in six days or less. New research shows its happened 23 different times this year. The next trade is scheduled for this Thursday.
Occidental Petroleum Corporation is an international oil and gas giant founded in 1920 to explore for oil in California. The company made its name in the early 1960safter discovering the Lathrop Gas Field in Lathrop, California. The company expanded into chemicals manufacturing in 1968 and then in 1972 it became a pioneer in the quest to extract oil from shale. In 1993, the company made a historic move by exiting its coal operations, and then it did so again when it embraced a lower carbon future.

The company worked to realign its goals with a carbon-free future in 2021. After extensive review, new carbon emission targets were laid out along with a plan that the Transition Pathway Initiative recognized as being 1 of 3 coming from major oil companies that could realistically result in net-zero emissions by 2050. Since then the company has laid interim goals that include net zero from operations and energy by 2040 and no routine flaring by 2030.

Today, Occidental Petroleum is an integrated energy company with operations in the US, the Middle East, Africa, and Columbia along with some other smaller operations. The company operates a network of best-in-class production, delivery, and storage facilities with operations centered in the US. On a net basis, the companys US operations accounted for more than 75% of the total in 2022 with 19% from Middle East operations and the remainder from Columbia and elsewhere.

The company engages in the oil & gas business as an explorer, producer, and mid-stream infrastructure operator. The company operates through three segments that include Oil and Gas, Chemicals, and Midstream & Marketing.

The oil and gas segment explores for oil, develops new fields, and produces hydrocarbon liquids, gasses, and condensates. The chemicals segment manufactures a range of chemicals including chlorine, potassium chemicals, and vinyl. The midstream segment transports, stores, and markets hydrocarbons. It is the 6th largest oil and gas producer in the US by market cap. The company attained the position after its acquisition of Anadarko Petroleum in 2019, the 4th largest oil and gas acquisition at the time.

Berkshire Hathaway became Occidental Petroleums largest shareholder in mid-2022. The firm had purchased more than 26% of the shares as of 10/14/2022 and had regulatory approval to purchase up to 50% of the company in total.
EOG Resources, Inc. is a leading independent exploration and production company focusing on the oil and gas industry. Based in Houston, Texas, EOG's mission is to provide energy solutions that power the world while adhering to the highest environmental and safety standards. With its robust portfolio of assets, talented management team, and commitment to technological advancements, EOG Resources has emerged as a key player in the energy sector.

EOG Resources operates in multiple locations across the globe, primarily focusing on North America, including the United States, Canada, and Trinidad. The company's primary products and services revolve around the exploration, development, production, and marketing of crude oil and natural gas. EOG Resources serves a diverse range of customers, including industrial, residential, and commercial sectors, as well as other energy companies.

EOG Resources is committed to minimizing its environmental impact. The company employs advanced drilling techniques and utilizes cutting-edge technologies to maximize production efficiency while reducing emissions and water usage. EOG's sustainability efforts align with its mission to provide reliable energy solutions for a sustainable future.

EOG Resources boasts a highly experienced and accomplished management team led by key executives with industry knowledge and expertise. Ezra Y. Yacob, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, has driven the company's strategic growth initiatives. With a strong background in geoscience and leadership roles, Mr. Yacob has been with EOG Resources since 2005. He has served in various key positions, including President and Executive Vice President of Exploration and Production.

Lloyd W. "Billy" Helms, Jr., President and Chief Operating Officer, joined EOG Resources in 1995 and has held several significant leadership positions within the company. Mr. Helms has been pivotal in overseeing the company's operations, exploration activities, and production strategies.

Timothy K. Driggers, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, has been integral to EOG Resources since 1995. Mr. Driggers' financial acumen and expertise have contributed to the company's financial stability and growth.

EOG Resources has consistently demonstrated strong financial performance, with steady revenue growth and healthy profit margins. EOG Resources has successfully navigated market fluctuations and achieved long-term financial stability.

When considering the company's valuation metrics, EOG Resources has been favorably positioned compared to its industry peers. The company's valuation metrics, such as price-to-earnings and price-to-book ratios, have reflected investor confidence in the company's future prospects and financial strength.

With significant price movements and trading volume, EOG Resources' stock performance has been notable. The company's stock has demonstrated resilience, responding to market conditions and reflecting investor sentiment. Recent news and events, including industry trends, regulatory changes, and geopolitical factors, have influenced EOG's share price.

EOG Resources operates in a dynamic and competitive industry highly influenced by global market conditions, regulatory policies, and technological advancements. The company competes with international and domestic players and strives to maintain a competitive edge through its operational excellence, technological innovation, and strong asset portfolio.

EOG Resources is well-positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities in the energy sector. The company continues to explore and develop new reserves, expand its operations and optimize production techniques. EOG's focus on technological advancements, such as utilizing data analytics and artificial intelligence, enhances its capabilities in identifying and extracting hydrocarbon resources efficiently.

Like any company operating in the energy sector, EOG Resources faces various risks and challenges that can impact its operations and financial performance. Investors and stakeholders must be aware of these factors when evaluating the company's prospects.

EOG Resources' revenue and profitability are closely tied to crude oil and natural gas prices. Fluctuations in commodity prices can significantly impact the company's financial results. Factors such as global supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical tensions, and economic conditions can lead to price volatility, posing a risk to EOG's revenue and profitability.

The energy industry is subject to extensive regulations related to drilling, production, emissions, and environmental impact. Regulation changes, especially those aimed at reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources, can require significant investments and impact the company's operational costs. Non-compliance with regulations could result in penalties and reputational damage.

EOG Resources relies on advanced technologies and innovations to efficiently explore and produce hydrocarbon reserves. However, technological advancements also bring inherent risks, such as data security threats and potential operational disruptions. Additionally, adopting new technologies may require substantial investments and successful implementation to yield desired results.

The energy sector is highly competitive, with numerous players vying for market share. EOG Resources competes with both established energy companies and emerging players. Intense competition can lead to pricing pressures and reduced margins. Moreover, market conditions, such as supply and demand imbalances, can impact the company's ability to sell its products at favorable prices.

EOG Resources operates in a global industry influenced by geopolitical tensions, trade policies, and macroeconomic conditions. Political instability, conflicts, and economic downturns in key markets can disrupt operations, impact demand for energy products and create uncertainty in the business environment.

EOG Resources has implemented various risk management strategies to mitigate the potential impacts of these risks and challenges:

EOG maintains a diverse portfolio of assets across multiple regions, allowing it to mitigate risks associated with specific geographic areas or regulatory environments. This diversification strategy helps spread risk and minimize the impact of localized disruptions.

The company emphasizes operational efficiency, cost discipline, and continuous improvement. By optimizing its operations, EOG aims to enhance productivity, reduce costs and mitigate the effects of commodity price fluctuations.

EOG Resources is committed to responsible environmental practices and sustainability. By proactively managing ecological risks and adopting environmentally friendly technologies, the company aims to mitigate regulatory and reputational risks.

EOG maintains a solid financial position, enabling it to weather market volatility and fund strategic initiatives. The company's prudent financial management and capital allocation strategies provide a cushion against potential economic downturns and industry challenges.
ConocoPhillips is a US-based muti-national energy company. ConocoPhillips is a diversified and integrated energy company with operations in all energy industry segments. In 2021, it was ranked the 8th largest petroleum company by market cap and was #156 on the Forbes Fortune 500 list. Regarding the global economy, it is the worlds 574th largest business, with operations in 13 countries. It is one of 5 remaining companies from Standard Oils split up and is the result of decades of mergers and acquisitions.

The companys earliest origins are in 1875 with the birth of Continental Oil and Transportation Company, Conoco. The company grew quickly with the industrial revolution and the widening usage of Kerosene, among other petroleum products, for heating and lighting. By 1885 it had become part of the Standard Oil family of companies, a time in which it also saw explosive growth.

Assets related to the original Conoco were sold to oil exploration leader E.W. Marland and were later remerged following Standards demise. By 1929, the company was an independent and fully integrated energy company specializing in crude and derivative products. Phillips Petroleum Company was founded in 1917 as an oil exploration company that quickly expanded into diversified operations. The company hit the big times upon the discovery of natural gas in the Texas panhandle and it saw explosive growth in the war and post-war periods of the early and mid-20th century.

Today, ConocoPhillips explores for, develops and produces crude oil, natural gas, natural gas liquids and bitumen across a diversified portfolio of assets. The company also transports and markets crude oil, bitumen, natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), natural gas liquids and their derivative products through a global network of distributors.

The companys operations span the conventional and tight oil markets, including shale gas, heavy oil, oil sands and other petroleum-related businesses. As of late 2022, the company had more than 6.1 billion barrels of proven oil and oil-equivalent reserves and was producing 1.731 million barrels of crude and equivalents per day. Roughly 50% of operations are centered in the crude oil market while less than 40% are natural gas, with the remainder made up of LNG and bitumen (asphalt).

The company's portfolio includes conventional, unconventional plays in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Assets are primarily located in Alaska (about 33% of US production), Eagle Ford, the Permian Basin, the Bakken, the Gulf of Mexico and the Anadarko Basin. Revenue topped $45.8 billion in 2021 and the company employs about 9,900 worldwide. Exploratory operations are underway in Columbia and Chile where the opportunity for both scale and flexibility is present.

ConocoPhillips was the first major oil company to adopt the Paris Climate Accord and pledge to achieve net-zero scope 1 and scope 2 emissions by 2050. Areas of focus include increasing operational efficiencies, supporting the reduction of end-use pollutants and advancing low-carbon alternatives, including hydrogen production and fuel cells.
Phillips 66 operates as an energy manufacturing and logistics company in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, and Marketing and Specialties (M&S). The Midstream segment transports crude oil and other feedstocks; delivers refined petroleum products to market; provides terminaling and storage services for crude oil and refined petroleum products; transports, stores, fractionates, exports, and markets natural gas liquids; provides other fee-based processing services; and gathers, processes, transports, and markets natural gas. The Chemicals segment produces and markets ethylene and other olefin products; aromatics and styrenics products, such as benzene, cyclohexane, styrene, and polystyrene; and various specialty chemical products, including organosulfur chemicals, solvents, catalysts, and chemicals used in drilling and mining. The Refining segment refines crude oil and other feedstocks into petroleum products, such as gasolines, distillates, aviation, and renewable. The M&S segment purchases for resale and markets refined petroleum products, including gasolines, distillates, and aviation fuels. This segment also manufactures and markets specialty products, such as base oils and lubricants. The company was founded in 1875 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.
The following companies are subsidiares of Toyota Motor: Cascade, Daihatsu, Daihatsu Motor Co. Ltd. , Daihatsu Motor Kyushu Co. Ltd. , Hino Motors Ltd. , Hino Ottawa-Gatineau, Misawa Homes Co. Ltd. , OOO TOYOTA MOTOR , P.T. Astra Daihatsu Motor , P.T. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia , TOYOTA Mobility Tokyo Inc., Toyota (GB) PLC, Toyota Argentina S.A. , Toyota Auto Body Co. Ltd. , Toyota Canada Inc. , Toyota Credit Canada Inc. , Toyota Daihatsu Engineering & Manufacturing Co. Ltd. , Toyota Finance Australia Ltd. , Toyota Finance Corporation , Toyota Financial Services (UK) PLC , Toyota Financial Services Corporation , Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd. , Toyota Leasing (Thailand) Co. Ltd. , Toyota Motor (China) Investment Co. Ltd. , Toyota Motor Asia Pacific Pte Ltd. , Toyota Motor Corporation Australia Ltd. , Toyota Motor Credit Corporation , Toyota Motor East Japan Inc. , Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America Inc. , Toyota Motor Europe NV/SA , Toyota Motor Finance (China) Co. Ltd. , Toyota Motor Finance (Netherlands) B.V. , Toyota Motor Kyushu Inc. , Toyota Motor Manufacturing (UK) Ltd. , Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc. , Toyota Motor Manufacturing France S.A.S. , Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana Inc. , Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky Inc. , Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas Inc. , Toyota Motor Manufacturing Turkey Inc. , Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Baja California S. de R.L. de C.V. , Toyota Motor North America Inc. , Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc. , Toyota Motor Thailand Co. Ltd. , Toyota South Africa Motors (Pty) Ltd. , and Toyota do Brasil Ltda. .

Read More
In these times of political negotiations, its pertinent to point out that the motto of unity is strength isnt only applicable to human beings. In nature, theres a world that goes beyond pure competition. The first field research in primatology  conducted in the mid-20th century  quickly highlighted that monkeys formed coalitions. That is, that two or more individual monkeys joined forces against rivals of the same species.

A book on savanna baboons (Papio cynocephalus), published in 1965, reads: It became clear that some of the adult males were constantly associating with each other and supporting each other in aggressive interactions with other males. Some of these males associated so closely that they almost never acted independently.

The purpose of most primate coalitions is to bolster status in the hierarchy within the group. This allows certain primates to access resources, such as food and females. Frequently, two high-ranking individuals team up against a subordinate to reinforce their position. However, there are also cases of revolutionary coalitions, in which partners seek to overthrow a monkey of a higher rank.

The curious thing is that there are also quite a few species of primates who dont create coalitions. For example, male chacma baboons (P. ursinus)  unlike other baboon species  only have antagonistic interactions with each other and rarely cooperate. What could be the reason for this? Well, some authors have pontificated that coalition-building is a complex behavior that requires advanced cognitive abilities. That is, only the most intelligent species are capable of establishing coalitions. However, an academic article published in 2014 refuted this hypothesis by analyzing 38 species of primates. The researchers concluded that what was most important were socioecological factors, such as group size.

Chacma baboons live in smaller groups than other baboons. Females tend to be in the majority. Therefore, males dont form coalitions, for the simple fact that there are too few of them. This is reminiscent of the history of Spanish politics, where parties were forced to form more coalitions only after the two-party system weakened, and smaller parties began to pick up seats.

If theres a clear difference between human coalitions and those made by monkeys, its perhaps in how they are forged. To reach agreements, politicians meet in their offices and express their interests. If the meeting has been fruitful, they shake hands and scribble on a piece of paper. But the rest of primates dont have such sophisticated language: they require other systems to know who their allies are. The most widespread system is that of grooming  an activity that consists of removing lice from each other. When a monkey grooms another in an inaccessible area of the body, such as the back, its sending a message.

It was in the 1970s when the hypothesis was proposed that primates used grooming as a form of currency. That is, they groomed others so that they would return the favor in the future, whether via more grooming, or offering support in case of an attack. However, it wasnt until 2006 that a meta-analysis corroborated the relationship between this generous grooming and coalition-building in primates. Of course, this isnt necessarily the case in all species.

There are other less common methods to strengthen links. Guinea baboons (P. papio) frequently touch each others genitals. This makes sense: the genitals are a very important part of the body for any animal, as theyre essential for transmitting offspring. When a baboon lets another touch them, theyre engaging in an act of trust. On the island of Cabo Delgado, Puerto Rico, male macaques forge their alliances through homosexual sex. A recent study has shown that male monkeys who have sexual relations with each other are more likely to support each other in a conflict. This practice helps them rise in the social ranking and, therefore, reproduce more with females.

Two Gombe chimpanzees provide care for each other. Ian Gilby

What other species of macaques do is use infants as a social tool to improve their relationships. This is usually practiced by low-ranking males when they want to approach another higher-ranking male, without being attacked by him. With a baby in their arms, they invite the other male to spend a peaceful moment together in close proximity, showing affection to the baby. Sometimes, this could be the starting point of a beautiful coalition.

So far, weve only talked about males, but what about females? Unlike male coalitions  which are often formed between unrelated individuals  female coalitions are usually between mothers and their daughters. For example, in savanna baboons, females stay in their natal group and inherit the rank of their mother, who will defend them against possible aggressors who try to usurp her position.

There is, however, a very striking exception: the bonobos (Pan paniscus). These are apes who, while physically similar to chimpanzees, have very different behavior. In chimpanzees, females are the dispersing sex (they go to another group to mate) and their social bonds are weak. Unlike males  whose coalitions are the day-to-day of their political strategies  they dont usually make them and are frequently attacked by males who seek to coerce them. On the other hand, bonobos  although theyre also not related  form strong coalitions whose main function is to fight back against harassment by males. They are physically less strong, but, thanks to their union, they manage to be the dominant sex, escape aggression and gain earlier access to food.

In this matriarchy, aggression is much lower than in chimpanzees, since they release tension by having sex. Especially when theyre feeding and conflicts may arise, the females will stand in front of each other and rub their vaginas, becoming more tolerant of each other. This good environment is what allows them to form coalitions and confront the males who try to attack them.

Across the board, for all primates, the conclusion is the same: no coalition is forged out of nothing. Either the individuals are related, or theyll have to work hard to create the necessary environment of tolerance and trust. Everyone chooses their method.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
The Bondbloxx Bloomberg Six Month Target Duration US Treasury ETF (XHLF) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in investment grade fixed income. The fund is passively managed to invest in a portfolio of US Treasury securities with a target duration of six months. XHLF was launched on Sep 13, 2022 and is managed by BondBloxx.
iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares MSCI EAFE Value Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the MSCI EAFE Value Index. The Index is a subset of the MSCI EAFE Index and constituents of the Index include securities from Europe, Australasia (Australia and Asia), and the Far East. The Fund invests in sectors, such as financials, energy, healthcare, telecommunication services, industrials, utilities, consumer discretionary, materials, information technology and consumer staples. The Fund generally invests at least 90% of its assets in securities of the Index and in depositary receipts representing securities of the Index. BlackRock Fund Advisors (BFA) serves as the investment adviser to the Fund.
Liberty Energy Inc. provides hydraulic services and related technologies to onshore oil and natural gas exploration, and production companies in North America. The company offers hydraulic fracturing services including complementary services, such as wireline services, proppant delivery solutions, data analytics, related goods, and technologies; and other services comprising design and pump diagnostic fracture injection test, DFIT and mini-frac analysis, and laboratory services, such as fluid rheology, surfactant, clay control, scaling and biocide testing. It owns and operate two sand mines in the Permian Basin; and fleet of approximately 40 active hydraulic fracturing. In addition, the company provides services primarily in Permian Basin, the Eagle Ford Shale, the DJ Basin, the Williston Basin, the San Juan Basin, the Powder River Basin, the Haynesville Shale, the SCOOP/STACK, the Marcellus Shale, Utica Shale, and the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin. Liberty Energy Inc. was formerly known as Liberty Oilfield Services Inc. and changed its name to Liberty Energy Inc. in April 2022. The company was founded in 2011 and is headquartered in Denver, Colorado.
Bank of Montreal provides diversified financial services primarily in North America. The company's personal banking products and services include checking and savings accounts, credit cards, mortgages, and financial and investment advice services; and commercial banking products and services comprise business deposit accounts, commercial credit cards, business loans and commercial mortgages, cash management solutions, foreign exchange, specialized banking programs, treasury and payment solutions, and risk management products for small business and commercial banking customers. It also offers investment and wealth advisory services; digital investing services; financial services and solutions; and investment management, and trust and custody services. In addition, the company provides life insurance, accident and sickness insurance, and annuity products; creditor and travel insurance to bank customers; and reinsurance solutions. Further, it offers client's debt and equity capital-raising services, as well as loan origination and syndication, and treasury management; strategic advice on mergers and acquisitions, restructurings, and recapitalizations, as well as valuation and fairness opinions; and trade finance, risk mitigation, and other operating services. Additionally, the company provides research and access to markets for institutional, corporate, and retail clients; trading solutions that include debt, foreign exchange, interest rate, credit, equity, securitization and commodities; new product development and origination services, as well as risk management advice and services to hedge against fluctuations; and funding and liquidity management services to its clients. Bank of Montreal was founded in 1817 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada.
The Toronto-Dominion Bank, also known as TD Bank, is a Canadian multinational bank that provides a wide range of financial services to customers in Canada, the United States, and worldwide. The bank was founded in 1855 in Toronto, Canada, and has since grown to become one of the largest banks in North America, with over 85,000 employees and more than 26 million customers. TD Bank is headquartered in Toronto, Canada, and has additional offices in New York City and other major cities throughout the United States.

TD Bank's key highlights and achievements include its status as the sixth-largest bank in North America by assets, its recognition as one of Canada's Best Managed Companies for 20 consecutive years, and its commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility.

The management team at TD Bank is led by Chief Executive Officer Bharat Masrani, who has been with the company for over 30 years and has held various senior leadership positions before being appointed CEO in 2014.

Regarding financial performance, TD Bank has delivered consistent results over the past few years, with revenue and net income increasing yearly for the past several years. The bank's profit margins have also remained robust, with an average net profit margin of 25%. However, TD Bank has also faced challenges related to debt levels and changes in ownership, with a recent decrease in ownership by TD Ameritrade Holding Corporation. Regarding valuation, TD Bank's price-to-earnings and price-to-book ratios align with industry peers. The company's market performance has also been relatively stable, with modest price movements and steady trading volume over the past few years.

TD Bank operates in a highly competitive and regulated industry, with other major players, including the Bank of Montreal, Royal Bank of Canada, and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. The broader banking industry is also subject to regulatory and political issues, such as changes in interest rates and financial regulations.

Despite these challenges, TD Bank has identified growth opportunities in new markets and product areas. These include launching new digital banking services and expanding the bank's presence in key markets such as the United States and Asia. TD Bank has also made several acquisitions in recent years, including the addition of Scottrade Bank in 2017 and the purchase of Chrysler Financial in 2011.

However, TD Bank also faces several risks and challenges, such as changes in consumer preferences and increased competition from fintech startups. The bank's focus on sustainability and corporate responsibility also presents risks related to environmental and social factors, such as climate change and social inequality. There are also recession risks involved. TD Bank could face challenges if there is a downturn in the economy.
Carrier Global Corporation provides heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, fire, security, and building automation technologies worldwide. It operates through three segments: HVAC, Refrigeration, and Fire & Security. The HVAC segment provides products, controls, services, and solutions to meet the heating, cooling, and ventilation needs of residential and commercial customers. Its products include air conditioners, heating systems, controls, and aftermarket components, as well as aftermarket repair and maintenance services and building automation solutions. The Refrigeration segment offers transport refrigeration and monitoring products and services, as well as digital solutions for trucks, trailers, shipping containers, intermodal applications, food retail, and warehouse cooling; and commercial refrigeration solutions, such as refrigerated cabinets, freezers, systems, and controls. The Fire & Security segment provides various residential, commercial, and industrial technologies, including fire, flame, gas, smoke, and carbon monoxide detection; portable fire extinguishers; fire suppression systems; intruder alarms; access control systems; video management systems; and electronic controls. Its other fire and security service offerings comprise audit, design, installation, and system integration, as well as aftermarket maintenance and repair and monitoring services. The company offers its products under the Autronica, Det-Tronics, Edwards, Aritech, Fireye, GST, Kidde, LenelS2, Marioff, Onity, and Supra; Carrier, Toshiba, Automated Logic, Bryant, CIAT, Day & Night, Heil, NORESCO, and Riello; and Carrier Commercial Refrigeration, Carrier Transicold, and Sensitech brands. The company was incorporated in 2019 and is headquartered in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
The Kroger Co. is a well-established supermarket chain that has been in operation for over a century. The company is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio and operates over 2,700 supermarkets and multi-department stores across 35 states under various banners, including Kroger, Ralphs, Smith's, King Soopers, and Fry's. The company's extensive network of stores and diverse range of products and services has made it one of the most prominent players in the US retail industry.

In addition to groceries, Kroger sells health and beauty products and household essentials and provides pharmacy services. The company strongly emphasizes community involvement, sustainability, and innovation, with its "Zero Hunger Zero Waste" program aiming to eliminate hunger and waste in its communities by 2025. This initiative has garnered significant attention and praise from consumers and investors alike, with the company's commitment to social responsibility resonating with many stakeholders.

Kroger is led by a highly experienced and diverse management team, with Rodney McMullen serving as the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. McMullen has been with Kroger since 1978 and was appointed CEO in 2014. His extensive experience in various leadership roles within the company has helped to guide Kroger through changes in consumer preferences and increased competition.

Over the past few years, Kroger has demonstrated consistent financial performance, with revenue increasing yearly. Notably, net income is relatively low compared to revenue due to Kroger's relatively low-profit margin. In 2022 Kroger's made a net income of $1.6 billion from over $137 billion in sales. These financial results have been achieved despite the highly competitive nature of the retail industry, highlighting the company's ability to adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences.

Kroger's long-term debt is significant, but the company has adequate assets to cover the debt burden. While this level of debt may concern some investors, it is worth noting that the company sold its convenience store business for $2.15 billion in 2019, which allowed it to reduce its debt levels and focus on its core supermarket business.

Kroger's valuation metrics compare favorably to its industry peers, with a price-to-earnings ratio and a price-to-book ratio below the industry average. The company's market capitalization is approximately $34 billion, and it has consistently paid dividends to its shareholders over the past decade.

In terms of market performance, the company has also experienced increased demand for its online grocery ordering and delivery services, which has helped to offset the decline in in-store shopping during the pandemic. This shift towards digital channels has been a key focus for Kroger in recent years, with the company investing heavily in its online capabilities to serve its customers better.

Kroger operates in the highly competitive grocery industry, which has seen increased consolidation and disruption in recent years. The company faces competition from traditional brick-and-mortar supermarkets and online retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. These competitors have invested heavily in their online capabilities, putting pressure on Kroger to keep up with the industry's changing landscape.

In addition to the competitive pressures, the grocery industry is subject to significant regulatory and political issues that may impact Kroger's operations. The company must adhere to strict regulations regarding food safety, labeling, and pricing, among other things. Furthermore, changes in government policies related to tariffs, trade agreements, and labor laws may also impact the company's operations and profitability.

Despite these challenges, Kroger has identified several growth opportunities that could help the company maintain its position as a leader in the industry. One of these opportunities is to expand its private label products, which have higher profit margins than branded products. Kroger has already made significant strides in this area, with private-label products accounting for over 30% of its sales in recent years.

Kroger may also pursue acquisitions or partnerships to expand its operations and reach new markets. The company has already made several acquisitions in recent years, including purchasing the meal kit company Home Chef and the merger with meal kit delivery company Ocado. These acquisitions have helped Kroger to diversify its offerings and expand its reach in the fast-growing meal kit market.

Despite the growth opportunities, Kroger faces risks and challenges that may impact its future performance. One of the most significant risks is changes in consumer preferences, which could reduce demand for traditional supermarkets and increase competition from non-traditional retailers. Kroger must continually adapt to changing consumer needs and preferences to remain competitive.

Another challenge facing Kroger is the increasing pressure to provide competitive pricing to consumers. The company must balance the need to maintain profit margins with the demand for affordable products, which could impact its profitability in the long run.

Kroger is subject to potential disruptions in its supply chain, which could impact its ability to provide products to its customers. Disruptions could occur due to natural disasters, global pandemics, or other unexpected events that could affect the company's operations and profitability.
The following companies are subsidiares of HCA Healthcare: 2490 Church LLC, 360 Community Alliance LLC, 4600 Waters Avenue Professional Building Condominium Association Inc., 52 Alderley Road LLP, AC Med LLC, ACH Inc., ADC Surgicenter LLC, AOGN LLC, AOSC Sports Medicine Inc., AR Holding 1 LLC, AR Holding 10 LLC, AR Holding 11 LLC, AR Holding 12 LLC, AR Holding 13 LLC, AR Holding 14 LLC, AR Holding 15 LLC, AR Holding 16 LLC, AR Holding 17 LLC, AR Holding 18 LLC, AR Holding 19 LLC, AR Holding 2 LLC, AR Holding 20 LLC, AR Holding 21 LLC, AR Holding 22 LLC, AR Holding 23 LLC, AR Holding 24 LLC, AR Holding 25 LLC, AR Holding 26 LLC, AR Holding 27 LLC, AR Holding 28 LLC, AR Holding 29 LLC, AR Holding 30 LLC, AR Holding 31 LLC, AR Holding 4 LLC, AR Holding 5 LLC, AR Holding 6 LLC, AR Holding 7 LLC, AR Holding 8 LLC, AR Holding 9 LLC, ASD Shared Services LLC, Acadiana Care Center Inc., Acadiana Practice Management Inc., Acadiana Regional Pharmacy Inc., Access 2 Health Care Physicians LLC, Access Health Care Physicians LLC, Access Management Co. LLC, Ace Leasing II LLC, Acute Kids Urgent Care of Medical City Childrens Hospital PLLC, Acworth Immediate Care LLC, Administrative Physicians of North Texas PLLC, Advanced Bundle Convener LLC, Advanced Plastic Surgery Center of Terre Haute LLC, Advanced Practice Providers of Gulf Coast PLLC, Alaska Regional Medical Group LLC, Albany Family Practice LLC, Aligned Business Consortium Group L.P., All About Staffing (India) Ltd., All About Staffing Inc., All About Staffing Philippines Inc., Alleghany General and Bariatric Services LLC, Alleghany Hospitalists LLC, Alleghany Primary Care Inc., Alleghany Specialists LLC, Alliance Surgicare LLC, Alpine Surgicenter LLC, Alta Internal Medicine LLC, Alternaco LLC, Altitude Mid Level Providers LLC, Ambulatory Endoscopy Clinic of Dallas Ltd., Ambulatory Endoscopy Holdco LLC, Ambulatory Laser Associates GP, Ambulatory Services Management Corporation of Chesterfield County Inc., Ambulatory Surgery Center Group Ltd., American Medicorp Development Co., Anchorage Surgicenter LLC, AppleCare/Memorial Immediate Care Joint Venture LLC, Appledore Medical Group II Inc., Appledore Medical Group Inc., Appomattox Imaging LLC, Arapahoe Surgicenter LLC, Arlington Diagnostic South Inc., Arlington Neurosurgeons PLLC, Arlington Primary Care PLLC, Arlington Primary Medicine PLLC, Arlington Surgery Center L.P., Arlington Surgicare LLC, Arthritis Specialists of Nashville Inc., Ashburn ASC LLC, Ashburn Imaging LLC, Athens Community Hospital Inc., Atlanta Healthcare Management L.P., Atlanta Home Care L.P., Atlanta Market GP Inc., Atlanta Outpatient Surgery Center Inc., Atlanta Surgery Center Ltd., Atlantis Surgicare LLC, Atrium Surgery Center L.P., Atrium Surgicare LLC, Augusta CyberKnife LLC, Augusta Inpatient Services LLC, Augusta Management Services LLC, Augusta Multispecialty Services LLC, Augusta Primary Care Services LLC, Augusta Specialty Hospitalists LLC, Augusta Urgent Care Services LLC, Aurora Endoscopy Surgicenter LLC, Austin GI Surgicenter LLC, Austin Heart Cardiology MSO LLC, Austin Medical Center Inc., Austin Physicians Management LLC, Austin Urogynecology PLLC, Aventura Cancer Center Manager LLC, Aventura Comprehensive Cancer Research Group of Florida Inc., Aventura Healthcare Specialists LLC, Aventura Neurosurgery LLC, BAMI Property LLC, Backlogs Limited, Bailey Square Ambulatory Surgical Center Ltd., Bailey Square Outpatient Surgical Center Inc., Bannerman Family Care LLC, Barrow Medical Center CT Services Ltd., Basic American Medical Inc., Basil Street Practice Limited, Bay Area Healthcare Group Ltd., Bay Area Surgical Center Investors Ltd., Bay Area Surgicare Center Inc., Bay Area Surgicenter LLC, Bay Hospital Inc., Bayonet Point Surgery Center Ltd., Bayshore Family Practitioners PLLC, Bayshore Multi-Specialty Group PLLC, Bayshore Occupational and Family Medicine PLLC, Bayshore Partner LLC, Bayshore Radiation Oncology Services PLLC, Bayshore Surgery Center Ltd., Bayside Ambulatory Center LLC, Bedford-Northeast Community Hospital Inc., Behavioral Health Sciences of West Florida LLC, Behavioral Health Wellness Center LLC, Bellaire Imaging Inc., Belleair Surgery Center Ltd., Belton Family Practice Clinic LLC, Big Cypress Medical Center Inc., Blacksburg Family Care LLC, Blossoms Healthcare LLP, Blue Ridge-TKC LLC, Bone & Joint Specialists Physician Group LLC, Bonita Bay Surgery Center Inc., Bonita Bay Surgery Center Ltd., Bountiful Surgery Center LLC, Boynton Beach EFL Imaging Center LLC, Bradenton Cardiology Physician Network LLC, Bradenton Outpatient Services LLC, Brandon Imaging Manager LLC, Brandon Regional Cancer Center LLC, Brentwood ASC LLC, Brigham City Community Hospital Inc., Brigham City Community Hospital Physician Services LLC, Brigham City Health Plan Inc., Brighton Surgicenter LLC, Brookwood Medical Center of Gulfport Inc., Broward Cardiovascular Surgeons LLC, Broward Healthcare System Inc., Broward Neurosurgeons LLC, Brownsville Specialists of Texas PLLC, Brownsville Surgery PLLC, Brownsville Surgical Specialists PLLC, Brownsville Surgicenter LLC, Brownsville-Valley Regional Medical Center Inc., Buford Road Imaging L.L.C., Byron Family Practice LLC, C. Medrano M.D. PLLC, C/HCA Capital Inc., C/HCA Development Inc., C/HCA Inc., CAREOS Surgicenter LLC, CC Clinic PLLC, CCBH Psychiatric Hospitalists LLC, CCH-GP Inc., CFC Investments Inc., CH Systems, CHC Finance Co., CHC Holdings Inc., CHC Management Ltd., CHC Payroll Agent Inc., CHC Payroll Company, CHC Realty Company, CHC Venture Co., CHC-El Paso Corp., CHC-Miami Corp., CHCA Bayshore L.P., CHCA Clear Lake L.P., CHCA Conroe L.P., CHCA Mainland L.P., CHCA Pearland L.P., CHCA West Houston L.P., CHCA Womans Hospital L.P., CHCK Inc., CJW Infectious Disease LLC, CJW Wound Healing Center LLC, CLASC Manager LLC, COL-NAMC Holdings Inc., COSCORP LLC, CP Surgery Center LLC, CPS TN Processor 1 Inc., CRMC-M LLC, CUC PLLC, CVMC Property LLC, Calder Immediate Care PLLC, California Imaging Center Manager LLC, California Urgent Care LLC, Calloway Creek Surgery Center L.P., Calloway Creek Surgicare LLC, Cancer Centers of North Florida LLC, Cancer Services of Aventura LLC, Capital Anesthesia Services LLC, Capital Area Cardiology, Capital Area CareNow Physician Associates, Capital Area Multispecialty Providers, Capital Area Neurosurgeons, Capital Area Occupational Medicine PLLC, Capital Area Primary Care PLLC, Capital Area Primary Care Providers, Capital Area Providers, Capital Area Specialists PLLC, Capital Area Specialty Providers, Capital Area Surgeons PLLC, Capital Division - CCA Inc., Capital Division Inc., Capital Network Services Inc., Capital Professional Billing LLC, Capital Regional Healthcare LLC, Capital Regional Heart Associates LLC, Capital Regional Psychiatry Associates LLC, Cardiac Surgical Associates LLC, Cardio Vascular Surgeons of North Texas PLLC, Cardiology Associates Medical Group LLC, Cardiology Clinic of San Antonio PLLC, Cardiology Specialists of North Texas PLLC, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons of Texas PLLC, Care for Women LLC, CareNow, CareOne Home Health Services Inc., CarePartners HHA Holdings LLLP, CarePartners HHA LLLP, CarePartners Rehabilitation Hospital LLLP, CareSpot Professional Services of Middle Tennessee LLC, CareSpot of Brentwood (210 Franklin Road) LLC, CareSpot of Cool Springs (100 International Drive) LLC, CareSpot of Donelson (2372 Lebanon Road) LLC, CareSpot of Hendersonville (280 Indian Lake Boulevard) LLC, CareSpot of Hermitage (5225 Old Hickory Boulevard) LLC, CareSpot of Lebanon (1705 West Main Street) LLC, CareSpot of Mt. Juliet (S. Mt. Juliet Road) LLC, CareSpot of Murfreesboro (1340 Broad Street) LLC, CareSpot of Nashville (2001 Glen Echo Road) LLC, CareSpot of Nashville (West End Avenue) LLC, Career Staffing USA Inc., Carlin Springs Urgent Care LLC, Carolina Forest Imaging Manager LLC, Carolina Regional Surgery Center Inc., Carolina Regional Surgery Center Ltd., Cartersville Medical Center LLC, Cartersville Occupational Medicine Center LLC, Cartersville Physician Practice I LLC, Catalog360 Limited, Cedar Creek Medical Group LLC, Cedars International Cardiology Consultants LLC, Cedars Medical Center Hospitalists LLC, Centennial Cardiovascular Consultants LLC, Centennial CyberKnife Center LLC, Centennial CyberKnife Manager LLC, Centennial Heart LLC, Centennial Hospitalists LLC, Centennial Neuroscience LLC, Centennial Psychiatric Associates LLC, Centennial Surgery Center L.P., Centennial Surgical Associates LLC, Centennial Surgical Clinic LLC, Centennial Womens Group LLC, Center for Advanced Diagnostics LLC, Center for Advanced Imaging LLC, Center for Digestive Diseases LLC, Center for Occupational Medicine LLC, Centerpoint Cardiology Services LLC, Centerpoint Clinic of Blue Springs LLC, Centerpoint Hospital Based Physicians LLC, Centerpoint Medical Center of Independence LLC, Centerpoint Medical Specialists LLC, Centerpoint Orthopedics LLC, Centerpoint Physicians Group LLC, Centerpoint Womens Services LLC, Central Florida Cardiology Interpretations LLC, Central Florida Division Practice Inc., Central Florida Health Services LLC, Central Florida Imaging Services LLC, Central Florida Management Services LLC, Central Florida Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates LLC, Central Florida Physician Network LLC, Central Florida Regional Hospital Inc., Central Health Holding Company Inc., Central Pasco LLC, Central San Antonio Surgical Center Investors Ltd., Central Shared Services LLC, Central Tennessee Hospital Corporation, Central Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Physicians PLLC, Centrum Surgery Center Ltd., Charleston CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Chatsworth Hospital Corp., Chattanooga ASC Acquisition Inc., Chattanooga Diagnostic Associates LLC, Chattanooga Healthcare Network L.P., Chattanooga Healthcare Network Partner Inc., Chelsea Outpatient Centre LLP, Chesterfield Imaging LLC, Chicago Grant Hospital Inc., Childrens Multi-Specialty Group LLC, Chino Community Hospital Corporation Inc., Chippenham & Johnston-Willis Hospitals Inc., Chippenham & Johnston-Willis Sports Medicine LLC, Chippenham Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Chippenham Pediatric Specialists LLC, Chiswick Outpatient Centre LLP, Christiansburg Family Medicine LLC, Christiansburg Internal Medicine LLC, Christina Cano-Gonzalez M.D. PLLC, Chugach PT Inc., Church Street Partners, Citrus Memorial Hospital Inc., Citrus Memorial Property Management Inc., Citrus Primary Care Inc., Citrus Specialty Group Inc., Citrus Surgicenter LLC, City of San Antonio H2U Employee Health and Wellness Center PLLC, Clarksville Surgicenter LLC, Clear Creek Surgery Center LLC, Clear Lake Cardiac Catheterization Center L.P., Clear Lake Cardiac GP LLC, Clear Lake Family Physicians PLLC, Clear Lake Medical Tower Owners Association Inc., Clear Lake Merger LLC, Clear Lake Multi-Specialty Group PLLC, Clear Lake Regional Medical Center Inc., Clear Lake Regional Partner LLC, Clear Lake Surgicare Ltd., ClinicServ LLC, Clinical Education Shared Services LLC, Clinishare Inc., Coastal Bend Hospital CT Services Ltd., Coastal Bend Hospital Inc., Coastal Carolina Home Care Inc., Coastal Carolina Multispecialty Associates LLC, Coastal Carolina Primary Care LLC, Coastal Healthcare Services Inc., Coastal Imaging Center L.P., Coastal Imaging Center of Gulfport Inc., Coastal Inpatient Physicians LLC, Coliseum Health Group Inc., Coliseum Health Group LLC, Coliseum Medical Center LLC, Coliseum Park Hospital Inc., Coliseum Primary Care Services LLC, Coliseum Primary Healthcare - Macon LLC, Coliseum Primary Healthcare - Riverside LLC, Coliseum Professional Associates LLC, Coliseum Same Day Surgery Center L.P., Coliseum Surgery Center L.L.C., College Park Ancillary LLC, College Park Endoscopy Center LLC, College Park Radiology LLC, Colleton Ambulatory Care LLC, Colleton Diagnostic Center LLC, Colleton Medical Anesthesia LLC, Colleton Medical Hospitalists LLC, Colleton Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery LLC, Collier County Home Health Agency Inc., Collin County Diagnostic Associates PLLC, Colorado Health Systems Inc., Columbia ASC Management L.P., Columbia Ambulatory Surgery Division Inc., Columbia Arlington Healthcare System L.L.C., Columbia Bay Area Realty Ltd., Columbia Behavioral Health Ltd., Columbia Behavioral Healthcare Inc., Columbia Behavioral Healthcare of South Florida Inc., Columbia Call Center Inc., Columbia Central Florida Division Inc., Columbia Central Group Inc., Columbia Champions Treatment Center Inc., Columbia Chicago Division Inc., Columbia Coliseum Same Day Surgery Center Inc., Columbia Development of Florida Inc., Columbia Doctors Hospital of Tulsa Inc., Columbia Eye and Specialty Surgery Center Ltd., Columbia Florida Group Inc., Columbia GP of Mesquite Inc., Columbia Good Samaritan Health System Limited Partnership, Columbia Greater Houston Division Healthcare Network Inc., Columbia Health System of Arkansas Inc., Columbia Healthcare System of Louisiana Inc., Columbia Healthcare of Central Virginia Inc., Columbia Hospital Corporation at the Medical Center, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Arlington, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Bay Area, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Central Miami, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Corpus Christi, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Fort Worth, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Houston, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Kendall, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Massachusetts Inc., Columbia Hospital Corporation of Miami, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Miami Beach, Columbia Hospital Corporation of North Miami Beach, Columbia Hospital Corporation of South Broward, Columbia Hospital Corporation of South Dade, Columbia Hospital Corporation of South Florida, Columbia Hospital Corporation of South Miami, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Tamarac, Columbia Hospital Corporation of West Houston, Columbia Hospital Corporation-Delaware, Columbia Hospital Corporation-SMM, Columbia Hospital at Medical City Dallas Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Hospital-El Paso Ltd., Columbia Integrated Health Systems Inc., Columbia Jacksonville Healthcare System Inc., Columbia LaGrange Hospital LLC, Columbia Lake Worth Surgical Center Limited Partnership, Columbia Medical Arts Hospital Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center Dallas Southwest Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center at Lancaster Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of Arlington Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of Denton Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of Las Colinas Inc., Columbia Medical Center of Lewisville Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of McKinney Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of Plano Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Group - Centennial Inc., Columbia Medical Group - Daystar Inc., Columbia Medical Group - Parkridge Inc., Columbia Medical Group - Southern Hills Inc., Columbia Medical Group - Southwest Virginia Inc., Columbia Medical Group - The Frist Clinic Inc., Columbia Midtown Joint Venture, Columbia North Alaska Healthcare Inc., Columbia North Central Florida Health System Limited Partnership, Columbia North Florida Regional Medical Center Limited Partnership, Columbia North Hills Hospital Subsidiary L.P., Columbia North Texas Healthcare System L.P., Columbia North Texas Subsidiary GP LLC, Columbia North Texas Surgery Center Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Northwest Medical Center Inc., Columbia Northwest Medical Center Partners Ltd., Columbia Ocala Regional Medical Center Physician Group Inc., Columbia Ogden Medical Center Inc., Columbia Oklahoma Division Inc., Columbia Palm Beach GP LLC, Columbia Palm Beach Healthcare System Limited Partnership, Columbia Park Healthcare System Inc., Columbia Park Medical Center Inc., Columbia Parkersburg Healthcare System LLC, Columbia Pentagon City Hospital L.L.C., Columbia Physician Services - Florida Group Inc., Columbia Plaza Medical Center of Fort Worth Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Primary Care LLC, Columbia Psychiatric Management Co., Columbia Resource Network Inc., Columbia Rio Grande Healthcare L.P., Columbia Riverside Inc., Columbia South Texas Division Inc., Columbia Specialty Hospital of Dallas Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Specialty Hospitals Inc., Columbia Surgery Group Inc., Columbia Surgicare of Augusta Ltd., Columbia Tampa Bay Division Inc., Columbia Valley Healthcare System L.P., Columbia West Bank Hospital Inc., Columbia Westbank Healthcare L.P., Columbia-CSA/HS Greater Canton Area Healthcare System L.P., Columbia-CSA/HS Greater Cleveland Area Healthcare System L.P., Columbia-Georgia PT Inc., Columbia-Osceola Imaging Center Inc., Columbia-Quantum Inc., Columbia-SDH Holdings Inc., Columbia/Alleghany Regional Hospital Incorporated, Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corporation of Central Texas, Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corporation of Northern Ohio, Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corporation of South Carolina, Columbia/HCA Heartcare of Corpus Christi Inc., Columbia/HCA International Group Inc., Columbia/HCA John Randolph Inc., Columbia/HCA Middle East Management Company, Columbia/HCA Physician Hospital Organization Medical Center Hospital, Columbia/HCA San Clemente Inc., Columbia/HCA of Baton Rouge Inc., Columbia/HCA of Houston Inc., Columbia/HCA of New Orleans Inc., Columbia/HCA of North Texas Inc., Columbine Psychiatric Center Inc., Columbus Cardiology Inc., Columbus Cath Lab Inc., Columbus Cath Lab LLC, Columbus Doctors Hospital Inc., Commonwealth Perinatal Services LLC, Commonwealth Specialists of Kentucky LLC, Community Hospital Family Practice LLC, Comprehensive Radiation Oncology LLC, Comprehensive Radiology Management Services Ltd., Concept EFL Imaging Center LLC, Concept West EFL Imaging Center LLC, Congenital Heart Surgery Center PLLC, Conroe Hospital Corporation, Conroe Montgomery Physicians Group PLLC, Conroe Orthopedic Specialists PLLC, Conroe Partner LLC, Conroe Specialists of Texas PLLC, Continental Division I Inc., Coral Springs Surgi-Center Ltd., CoralStone Management Inc., Corpus Christi Healthcare Group Ltd., Corpus Christi Heart Clinic PLLC, Corpus Christi Primary Care Associates PLLC, Corpus Christi Psychiatric Specialists PLLC, Corpus Christi Radiation Oncology PLLC, Corpus Christi Surgery Center L.P., Corpus Christi Surgery Ltd., Corpus Christi Surgicenter LLC, Corpus Surgicare Inc., Countryside Surgery Center Ltd., Crewe Outpatient Imaging LLC, Cumberland Medical Center Inc., Cy-Fair Medical Center Hospital LLC, DFW Physicians Group PLLC, DOMC Property LLC, DS Real Estate Holdings LLC, Daleville Imaging L.P., Daleville Imaging Manager LLC, Dallas CardioThoracic Surgery Consultants PLLC, Dallas Cardiology Specialists PLLC, Dallas Hand Surgery Center PLLC, Dallas Medical Specialists PLLC, Dallas Neuro-Stroke Affiliates PLLC, Dallas Pediatric Neurosurgery Specialists PLLC, Dallas/Ft. Worth Physician LLC, Davie Medical Center LLC, Daytona Medical Center Inc., Dean 4641 LLC, Deep Purple Investments LLC, Del Sol Bariatric Clinic PLLC, Delray EFL Imaging Center LLC, Denton Cancer Center PLLC, Denton County Hospitalist Program PLLC, Denton Pediatric Physicians PLLC, Denton Regional Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Denver Clinic Surgicenter LLC, Denver Mid-Town Surgery Center Ltd., Denver Surgicenter LLC, Derry ASC Inc., Diagnostic Breast Center Inc., Diagnostic Mammography Services G.P., Diagnostic Services G.P., Dickson Surgery Center L.P., Doctors Bay Area Physician Hospital Organization, Doctors Hospital (Conroe) Inc., Doctors Hospital Columbus GA-Joint Venture, Doctors Hospital Surgery Center L.P., Doctors Hospital of Augusta LLC, Doctors Hospital of Augusta Neurology LLC, Doctors Osteopathic Medical Center Inc., Doctors Same Day Surgery Center Inc., Doctors Same Day Surgery Center Ltd., Doctors-I Inc., Doctors-II Inc., Doctors-III Inc., Doctors-IV Inc., Doctors-IX Inc., Doctors-V Inc., Doctors-VI Inc., Doctors-VII Inc., Doctors-VIII Inc., Doctors-X Inc., Doctors Memorial Hospital of Spartanburg Limited Partnership, Dominion Hospital Physicians Group LLC, Dublin Community Hospital LLC, Dublin Heart Specialists LLC, Dublin Multispecialty LLC, Dura Medical Inc., E.P. Physical Therapy Centers Inc., EASTSIDE URGENT CARE LLC, EHCA Diagnostics LLC, EHCA Eastside Occupational Medicine Center LLC, EHCA LLC, EHCA Metropolitan LLC, EHCA Parkway LLC, EHCA Peachtree LLC, EHCA West Paces LLC, EIRMC Hospitalist Services LLC, EMMC LLC, EP Health LLC, EP Holdco LLC, EPIC Development Inc., EPIC Diagnostic Centers Inc., EPIC Healthcare Management Company, EPIC Properties Inc., EPIC Surgery Centers Inc., EPSC L.P., East Falls Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery LLC, East Falls Family Medicine LLC, East Falls Plastic Surgery LLC, East Florida - DMC Inc., East Florida Behavioral Health Network LLC, East Florida Cardiology Network LLC, East Florida CareNow Urgent Care LLC, East Florida Division Inc., East Florida Emergency Physician Group LLC, East Florida Healthcare LLC, East Florida Hospitalists LLC, East Florida Imaging Holdings LLC, East Florida Primary Care LLC, East Houston Primary Care PLLC, East Houston Specialists PLLC, East Layton Internal Medicine LLC, East Orthopedics PLLC, East Pointe Hospital Inc., Eastern Idaho Brachytherapy Equipment LLC, Eastern Idaho Brachytherapy Equipment Manager LLC, Eastern Idaho Care Partners ACO LLC, Eastern Idaho Care Partners Holdings LLC, Eastern Idaho Care Partners LLC, Eastern Idaho Health Services Inc., Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center Inpatient Services LLC, Eastside Behavioral Health Associates LLC, Eastside General Surgery LLC, Eastside Heart and Vascular LLC, Eastside Medical Center LLC, Eastside Surgery Center LLC, Edmond General Surgery LLC, Edmond Hospitalists LLC, Edmond Physician Hospital Organization Inc., Edward White Hospital Inc., El Paso CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, El Paso Healthcare Provider Network, El Paso Healthcare System Ltd., El Paso Healthcare System Physician Services LLC, El Paso Nurses Unlimited Inc., El Paso Primary Care PLLC, El Paso Surgery Centers L.P., El Paso Surgicenter Inc., Eldridge Family Practitioners PLLC, Elite Family Health of Plano PLLC, Elite OB-GYN Services of El Paso PLLC, Elite Orthopaedics of El Paso PLLC, Elite Orthopaedics of Irving PLLC, Elite Orthopaedics of Plano PLLC, Elstree Outpatient Centre LLP, Emergency Physicians at Wesley Medical Center LLC, Emergency Providers Group LLC, Emergency Psychiatric Medicine PLLC, Encino Hospital Corporation Inc., Endocrinology Associates of Lees Summit LLC, Endoscopy Surgicare of Plano LLC, Endoscopy of Plano L.P., Englewood Community Hospital Auxiliary Inc., Englewood Community Hospital Inc., Envision Stakes LLC, Eye Care Surgicare Ltd. a Missouri limited partnership, FHAL LLC, FMH Health Services LLC, Fairfax Surgical Center L.P., Fairview Medical Services LLC, Fairview Park GP LLC, Fairview Park Limited Partnership, Fairview Partner LLC, Family Care Partners LLC, Family Care of E. Jackson County LLC, Family First Medicine in Brownsville PLLC, Family Health Medical Group of Overland Park LLC, Family Health Specialists of Lees Summit LLC, Family Medicine of Blacksburg LLC, Family Practice at Forest Hill LLC, Family Practice at Retreat LLC, Family Practitioners of Montgomery PLLC, Family Practitioners of Pearland PLLC, Fannin MOB LLC, Fannin MOB Property Management LLC, Far West Division Inc., Fawcett Memorial Hospital Inc., Florida Care Partners LLC, Florida Care Partners Orlando LLC, Florida Home Health Services-Private Care Inc., Florida Outpatient Surgery Center Ltd., Flower Mound Surgery Center Ltd., Focus Hand Surgicenter LLC, Foot & Ankle Specialty Services LLC, Forest Park Surgery Pavilion Inc., Forest Park Surgery Pavilion L.P., Fort Bend Hospital Inc., Fort Chiswell Family Practice LLC, Fort Myers Market Inc., Fort Pierce Immediate Care Center Inc., Fort Pierce Orthopaedics LLC, Fort Pierce Surgery Center Ltd., Fort Walton Beach Medical Center Inc., Fort Worth Investments Inc., Forward Pathology Solutions LLC, Four Rivers Medical Center PHO Inc., Frankfort Hospital Inc., Frankfort Wound Care LLC, Freeport Family Medicine LLC, Fremont Womens Health LLC, Frisco Surgicare LLC, Frisco Warren Parkway 91 Inc., Frist Clinic Express LLC, Ft. Pierce Surgicare LLC, Ft. Walton Beach Anesthesia Services LLC, G. Rowe M.D. PLLC, G. Schnider M.D. PLLC, G. Voorhees M.D. PLLC, G.P. Martin Fletcher & Associates LLC, GA PHYSICIAN SERVICES LLC, GA Urgentcare Holding LLC, GHC-Galen Health Care LLC, GI Associates of Denton PLLC, GI Associates of Lewisville PLLC, GME Services of Osceola LLC, GPCH-GP Inc., GYN-Oncology of Southwest Virginia LLC, Gainesville GYN Oncology of North Florida Regional Medical Center LLC, Gainesville Physicians LLC, GalTex LLC, Galen (Kansas) Merger LLC, Galen BH Inc., Galen Center for Professional Development Inc., Galen College of Nursing, Galen Diagnostic Multicenter Ltd., Galen GOK LLC, Galen Global Finance Inc., Galen Health Institutes Inc., Galen Health Partners Limited, Galen Holdco LLC, Galen Hospital Alaska Inc., Galen Hospital of Baytown Inc., Galen Hospital-Pembroke Pines Inc., Galen International Holdings Inc., Galen KY LLC, Galen MCS LLC, Galen MRMC LLC, Galen Medical Corporation, Galen NMC LLC, Galen NSH LLC, Galen Property LLC, Galen SOM LLC, Galen SSH LLC, Galen Virginia Hospital Corporation, Galen of Aurora Inc., Galen of Florida Inc., Galen of Illinois Inc., Galen of Kentucky Inc., Galen of Mississippi Inc., Galen of Virginia Inc., Galen of West Virginia Inc., Galen-Soch Inc., Galencare Inc., Galendeco Inc., Galichia Anesthesia Services LLC, Galichia Emergency Physicians LLC, Garden Park Community Hospital Limited Partnership, Garden Park Hospitalist Program LLC, Garden Park Investments L.P., Garden Park Physician Group - Specialty Care LLC, Garden Park Physician Group Inc., Gardens EFL Imaging Center LLC, Gastroenterology Specialists of Middle Tennessee LLC, General Hospitals of Galen Inc., General Medical Clinics Limited, General Surgeons of Houston PLLC, General Surgeons of North Richland Hills PLLC, General Surgeons of Pasadena PLLC, General and Cardiovascular Surgeons of Conroe PLLC, Generations Family Practice Inc., GenoSpace LLC, Georgia Health Holdings Inc., Georgia L.P., Georgia Psychiatric Company Inc., Glemm SA, Good Samaritan Hospital L.P., Good Samaritan Hospital LLC, Good Samaritan Surgery Center L.P., Goppert-Trinity Family Care LLC, Grace Family Practice LLC, Gramercy Eye Surgicenter LLC, Gramercy Surgery Center Ltd., Grand Strand Regional Medical Center LLC, Grand Strand Senior Health Center LLC, Grand Strand Specialty Associates LLC, Grand Strand Surgical Specialists LLC, Grandview Health Care Clinic LLC, Grant Center Hospital of Ocala Inc., Grayson Primary Care LLC, Greater Gwinnett Internal Medicine Associates LLC, Greater Gwinnett Physician Corporation, Greater Houston Preferred Provider Option Inc., Greater Tampa Bay Physician Network LLC, Greater Tampa Bay Physician Specialists LLC, Greater Tampa Bay Physicians - Pinellas LLC, Green Oaks Hospital Subsidiary L.P., Greenview Hospital Inc., Greenview PrimeCare LLC, Greenview Specialty Associates LLC, Gulf Coast Division Inc., Gulf Coast Electrophysiology Associates PLLC, Gulf Coast Inpatient Specialists LLC, Gulf Coast Medical Center Primary Care LLC, Gulf Coast Medical Ventures Inc., Gulf Coast Multispecialty Services LLC, Gulf Coast Physician Administrators Inc., Gulf Coast Provider Network Inc., Gwinnett Community Hospital Inc., Gynecology Specialists of Utah LLC, H2U Wellness Centers - Del Sol Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers - Las Palmas Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers - Medical City Dallas PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers - St. Davids Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers LLC, H2U Wellness Centers  Clear Lake Regional Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  Conroe ISD PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  Conroe Regional Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  Corpus Christi PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  El Paso PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  PISD PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  San Benito CISD PLLC, HBP Lone Star Inc., HCA - IT&S Field Operations Inc., HCA - IT&S Inventory Management Inc., HCA - IT&S PBS Field Operations Inc., HCA - IT&S TN Field Operations Inc., HCA - Information Technology & Services Inc., HCA - Raleigh Community Hospital Inc., HCA - Viera ALF LLC, HCA - WHS Progressive LLC, HCA - WHS Services LLC, HCA ASD Financial Operations LLC, HCA ASD Sales Services LLC, HCA American Finance LLC, HCA Carenow Limited, HCA Central Group Inc., HCA Central/West Texas Physicians Management LLC, HCA Chattanooga Market Inc., HCA Development Company Inc., HCA Eastern Group Inc., HCA Global Capital LLP, HCA Gulf Coast GME PLLC, HCA Health Services of California Inc., HCA Health Services of Florida Inc., HCA Health Services of Georgia Inc., HCA Health Services of Louisiana Inc., HCA Health Services of Miami Inc., HCA Health Services of Midwest Inc., HCA Health Services of New Hampshire Inc., HCA Health Services of Tennessee Inc., HCA Health Services of Texas Inc., HCA Health Services of Virginia Inc., HCA Health Services of West Virginia Inc., HCA Healthcare Mission Fund LLC, HCA Healthcare UK Limited, HCA Holdco LLC, HCA Human Resources LLC, HCA Imaging Services of North Florida Inc., HCA Inc., HCA International Holdings Limited, HCA International Limited, HCA LewisGale Regional Cancer Centers Clinical Co-Management Company LLC, HCA Long Term Health Services of Miami Inc., HCA Luxembourg 1 Sarl, HCA Luxembourg 2 Sarl, HCA Luxembourg Equities Sarl, HCA Luxembourg Finance Limited, HCA Luxembourg Investments Sarl, HCA Management Services L.P., HCA Medical City Limited, HCA Medical Services Inc., HCA Midwest Comprehensive Care Inc., HCA Outpatient Clinic Services of Miami Inc., HCA Outpatient Imaging Services Group Inc., HCA Patient Safety Organization LLC, HCA Pearland GP Inc., HCA Physician Services Inc., HCA Plano Imaging Inc., HCA Property GP LLC, HCA Psychiatric Company, HCA Purchasing Limited, HCA Realty Inc., HCA Richmond Cardiac Clinical Co-Management Company LLC, HCA SF LLC, HCA SFB 1 LLC, HCA Sarasota Orthopedic and Spine Clinical Co-Management Company LLC, HCA Squared LLC, HCA Staffing Limited, HCA Swiss Capital 1 LLP, HCA Swiss Capital 2 LLP, HCA Switzerland Finance GmbH, HCA Switzerland Holding GmbH, HCA Switzerland Limited, HCA UK Capital Limited, HCA UK Holdings Limited, HCA UK Investments Limited, HCA UK Limited, HCA UK Services Limited, HCA Wesley Rehabilitation Hospital Inc., HCA Western Group Inc., HCA-Access Healthcare Holdings LLC, HCA-Access Healthcare Partner Inc., HCA-California Urgent Care Holdings LLC, HCA-EMS Holdings LLC, HCA-EmCare Holdings LLC, HCA-Georgia Urgent Care Holdings LLC, HCA-HBPS Holdings LLC, HCA-HealthONE LLC, HCA-Solis Holdings Inc., HCA-Solis Mammography Service Holdings of Continental LLC, HCA-Solis Mammography Service Holdings of Gulf Coast LLC, HCA-Solis Mammography Service Holdings of North Texas LLC, HCA-Solis Mammography Service Holdings of TriStar LLC, HCA-Solis Mammography Services LLC, HCA-Solis Master LLC, HCA-Urgent Care Holdings LLC, HCAPS Anesthesia Manager LLC, HCAPS Conroe Affiliation Inc., HCOL Inc., HD&S Corp. Successor Inc., HDH Thoracic Surgeons LLC, HHBY Holdings LLC, HHNC LLC, HICCH-SCL LLC, HM Acquisition LLC, HM OMCOS LLC, HMMG 1226 LLC, HPG Energy L.P., HPG Enterprises LLC, HPG GP LLC, HPG Solutions LLC, HSS Holdco LLC, HSS Systems LLC, HSS Virginia L.P., HTI Gulf Coast Inc., HTI Health Services of North Carolina Inc., HTI Hospital Holdings Inc., HTI MOB LLC, HTI MSO LLC, HTI Memorial Hospital Corporation, HTI Physician Services of Utah Inc., HWCA PLLC, Hamilton Memorial Hospital Inc., Hamsard 3160 Limited, Harley Street Clinic @ The Groves LLP, Hathor Chelsea Ltd., Healdsburg General Hospital Inc., Health Care Indemnity Inc., Health Insight Capital LLC, Health International Billing Partners Limited, Health Midwest Medical Group Inc., Health Midwest Office Facilities Corporation, Health Midwest Ventures Group Inc., Health Partners of Kansas Inc., Health Service Partners Inc., Health Services (Delaware) Inc., Health Services Merger Inc., Health to You LLC, HealthCoast Physician Group LLC, HealthONE Aurora Investment LLC, HealthONE Care Partners LLC, HealthONE CareNow Urgent Care LLC, HealthONE Clear Creek LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Bariatric Medicine LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Behavioral Health LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Cancer Care LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Cancer Specialties LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Cardiovascular LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Medical Specialties LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Neurosciences LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Obstetrics and Gynecology LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Occupational Medicine LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Oncology Hematology LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Orthopedic Specialists LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Otolaryngology Specialists LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Pediatric Cardiovascular Surgery LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Pediatric Specialties LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Primary Care LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Spine Specialists LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Spine Surgeons LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Surgery Neurological LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Surgical Specialties LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Transplant Services LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Womens Services LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Youth Rehabilitation LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services LLC, HealthONE High Street Primary Care Center LLC, HealthONE IRL Pathology Services LLC, HealthONE Institutes for Clinical Research LLC, HealthONE Lowry LLC, HealthONE Radiation Therapy at Red Rocks LLC, HealthONE Radiation Therapy at Thornton LLC, HealthONE Ridge View Endoscopy Center LLC, HealthONE Surgicare of Ridge View LLC, HealthONE Urologic LLC, HealthONE at Breckenridge LLC, HealthONE of Denver Inc., HealthOne Heart Care LLC, HealthOne Lincoln Investment LLC, HealthOne Westside Investment LLC, HealthTrust Europe Company Limited, HealthTrust Europe LLP, HealthTrust Locums Inc., HealthTrust Workforce Solutions LLC, Healthcare Oklahoma Inc., Healthcare Purchasing Alliance LLC, Healthcare Sales National Management Services Group LLC, Healthcare Technology Assessment Corporation, Healthco LLC, Healthnet of Kentucky LLC, Healthserv Acquisition LLC, Healthtrust Inc. - The Hospital Company, Healthtrust MOB Tennessee LLC, Healthtrust Purchasing Group L.P., Healthtrust Utah Management Services Inc., Healthy State Inc., Heart Specialist of North Texas PLLC, Heart of America ASC LLC, Heart of America Surgicenter LLC, Heartcare of Texas Ltd., Hearthstone Home Health Inc., Heartland Womens Group at Wesley LLC, Heathrow Imaging LLC, Heathrow Internal Medicine LLC, Hendersonville Hospital Corporation, Hendersonville Hospitalist Services Inc., Hendersonville OB/GYN LLC, Hendersonville ODC LLC, Hendersonville Primary Care LLC, Henrico Doctors Hospital - Forest Campus Property LLC, Henrico Doctors Neurology Associates LLC, Henrico Doctors OB GYN Specialists LLC, Henrico Surgical Specialists LLC, Heritage Family Care LLC, Heritage Hospital Inc., Heritage Medical Care LLC, Hermitage Primary Care LLC, Hidalgo County Family Practitioners PLLC, Hidden Lakes Health Center PLLC, Highlands Regional Medical Center, Hip & Joint Specialists of North Texas PLLC, Homecare North Inc., Hometrust Management Services Inc., Horizon Orthopedics LLC, Horizon Surgical LLC, Hospital Corp. LLC, Hospital Corporation of America, Hospital Corporation of Lake Worth, Hospital Corporation of Tennessee, Hospital Corporation of Utah, Hospital Development Properties Inc., Hospital Partners Merger LLC, Hospital Realty Corporation, Hospital-Based CRNA Services Inc., Hospitalists at Centennial Medical Center LLC, Hospitalists at Fairview Park LLC, Hospitalists at Greenview Regional Hospital LLC, Hospitalists at Horizon Medical Center LLC, Hospitalists at Parkridge LLC, Hospitalists at StoneCrest LLC, Hospitalists at Wesley Medical Center LLC, Hospitalists of the Wabash Valley LLC, Houston - PPH LLC, Houston CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, Houston Healthcare Holdings Inc., Houston NW Manager LLC, Houston Northwest Concessions L.L.C., Houston Northwest Operating Company L.L.C., Houston Northwest Surgical Partners Inc., Houston Obstetrics and Gynecology for Women PLLC, Houston Pediatric Specialty Group PLLC, Houston Urologic Surgicenter LLC, Houston Womans Hospital Partner LLC, ICU Associates of West Houston PLLC, IMX Holdings LLC, IRL Pathology Services MidAmerica LLC, Idaho Behavioral Health Services LLC, Idaho Physician Services Inc., Illinois Psychiatric Hospital Company Inc., Imaging Realty LLC, Imaging Services of Appomattox LLC, Imaging Services of Jacksonville LLC, Imaging Services of Louisiana LLC, Imaging Services of Louisiana Manager LLC, Imaging Services of Orlando LLC, Imaging Services of Richmond LLC, Imaging Services of Roanoke LLC, Imaging Services of West Boynton LLC, InVivoLink Inc., Independence Neurosurgery Services LLC, Independence Regional Medical Group LLC, Independence Surgicare Inc., Indian Path Hospital Inc., Indianapolis Hospital Partner LLC, Institute for Womens Health and Body LLC, Institute of Advanced ENT Surgery LLC, Integrated Regional Lab LLC, Integrated Regional Laboratories LLP, Integrated Regional Laboratories Pathology Services LLC, Intensive Care Consortium Inc., Internal Medicine Associates of Huntsville PLLC, Internal Medicine Associates of Southern Hills LLC, Internal Medicine of Blacksburg LLC, Internal Medicine of Pasadena PLLC, Internist Associates of Houston PLLC, Isleworth Partners Inc., J. M. Garcia M.D. PLLC, JCSH LLC, JDGC Management LLC, JFK Internal Medicine Faculty Practice LLC, JFK Medical Center Limited Partnership, JPM AA Housing LLC, Jackson County Medical Group LLC, Jackson County Pulmonary Medical Group LLC, Jacksonville CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Jacksonville Multispecialty Services LLC, Jacksonville Surgery Center Ltd., James River Internists LLC, John Randolph Family Practice LLC, John Randolph OB/GYN LLC, John Randolph Surgeons LLC, Johnson County Neurology LLC, Johnson County Surgery Center L.P., Johnson County Surgicenter L.L.C., Jordan Family Health L.L.C., Jupiter EFL Imaging Center LLC, KC Pain ASC LLC, KC Surgicare LLC, KPH-Consolidation Inc., Kansas CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Kansas City Cardiac Arrhythmia Research LLC, Kansas City Gastroenterology & Hepatology Physicians Group LLC, Kansas City Neurology Associates LLC, Kansas City Pulmonology Practice LLC, Kansas City Surgery Center Properties LLC, Kansas City Vascular & General Surgery Group LLC, Kansas City Womens Clinic Group LLC, Kansas Healthserv LLC, Kansas Pulmonary and Sleep Specialists LLC, Kansas Trauma and Critical Care Specialists LLC, Kathy L. Summers M.D. PLLC, Kendall Healthcare Group Ltd., Kendall Regional Medical Center LLC, Kendall Regional Urgent Care LLC, Kennedale Primary Care PLLC, Kingwood Multi-Specialty Group PLLC, Kingwood Surgery Center LLC, Kingwood Surgicenter LLC, Kissimmee Surgicare Ltd., Kyle Primary Care PLLC, L E Corporation, LAD Imaging LLC, LGMC Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, LOC @ The Christie LLP, LOC @ The London Bridge Hospital LLP, LOC Partnership LLP, LPN TeleBehavioral Health PLLC, Lafayette OB Hospitalists LLC, Lafayette Urogynecology & Urology Center LLC, Lake City Imaging LLC, Lake City Regional Medical Group LLC, Lake Forest Family Health PLLC, Lakeside Radiology LLC, Lakeside Womens Services LLC, Lakeview Cardiology Specialists LLC, Lakeview Hospital Physician Services LLC, Lakeview Internal Medicine LLC, Lakeview Medical Center LLC, Lakeview Regional Medical Center Inpatient Services LLC, Lakeview Regional Physician Group LLC, Lakeview Urology & General Surgery LLC, Lakewood Surgicare Inc., Laredo Medco LLC, Largo Medical Center Inc., Largo Physician Group LLC, Las Colinas Primary Care PLLC, Las Colinas Surgery Center Ltd., Las Encinas Hospital, Las Palmas Del Sol Cardiology PLLC, Las Palmas Del Sol Internal Medicine PLLC, Las Palmas Del Sol Urgent Care PLLC, Las Vegas ASC LLC, Las Vegas Surgicare Inc., Las Vegas Surgicare Ltd. a Nevada Limited Partnership, Lawnwood Cardiovascular Surgery LLC, Lawnwood Healthcare Specialists LLC, Lawnwood Medical Center Inc., Layton Family Practice LLC, Leaders in Oncology Care Limited, Leadership Healthcare Holdings II L.P. L.L.P., Leadership Healthcare Holdings L.P. L.L.P., Lees Summit Family Care LLC, Leslie Cohan M.D. PLLC, Lewis-Gale Hospital Incorporated, Lewis-Gale Medical Center LLC, Lewis-Gale Physicians LLC, Lewisville Primary Care PLLC, Lewisville Surgicare LLC, Lincoln Surgery Center LLC, Live Oak Immediate Care Center LLC, London Oncology Clinic LLP, London Pathology Limited, London Radiography & Radiotherapy Services Limited, Lone Peak Hospital Inc., Lone Star Intensivists at Gulf Coast PLLC, Lonestar Provider Network, Longview Regional Physician Hospital Organization Inc., Lorain County Surgery Center Ltd., Los Gatos Surgical Center a California Limited Partnership, Los Robles Regional Medical Center, Los Robles Regional Medical Center MOB LLC, Los Robles SurgiCenter LLC, Loudoun Surgery Center LLC, Louisiana Psychiatric Company Inc., Loveland Surgicenter LLC, Low Country Health Services Inc. of the Southeast, Lowry Surgicenter LLC, M. Jamshidi D.O. PLLC, MCA Investment Company, MCA-CTMC Holdings LLC, MEC Endoscopy LLC, MFA G.P. LLC, MFM Fact PLLC, MGH Medical Inc., MH Anesthesiology Physicians LLC, MH Angel Medical Center LLLP, MH Asheville Specialty Hospital LLC, MH Blue Ridge Medical Center LLLP, MH Eckerd Living Center LLLP, MH Highlands-Cashiers Medical Center LLLP, MH Hospital Holdings Inc., MH Hospital Manager LLC, MH Master Holdings LLLP, MH Master LLC, MH McDowell Imaging LLLP, MH Mission Hospital LLLP, MH Mission Hospital McDowell LLLP, MH Mission Imaging LLLP, MH Physician Services LLC, MH Transylvania Imaging LLLP, MH Transylvania Regional Hospital LLLP, MHS Partnership Holdings JSC Inc., MHS Partnership Holdings SDS Inc., MHS SC Partner L.L.C., MHS Surgery Centers L.P., MMC Sleep Lab Management LLC, MOSC Sports Medicine Inc., MOVCO Inc., MP Management LLC, MRT&C Inc., MSL Acquisition LLC, MVH Professional Services LLC, Macon Healthcare LLC, Macon Northside Health Group LLC, Macon Northside Hospital LLC, Macon Psychiatric Hospitalists LLC, Madison Behavioral Health LLC, Mainland Family Medicine PLLC, Mainland Multi-Specialty Group PLLC, Mainland Primary Care Physicians PLLC, Management Services Holdings Inc., Manatee Surgicare Ltd., Marietta Outpatient Medical Building Inc., Marietta Outpatient Surgery Ltd., Marietta Surgical Center Inc., Marion Community Hospital Inc., Mark Gottesman M.D. PLLC, Martin Fletcher & Associates L.P., Martin Fletcher Associates Holdings Inc., Mary Alice Cowan M.D. PLLC, Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialists of Corpus Christi PLLC, Maternal Fetal Services of Utah LLC, Maury County Behavioral Health LLC, Mayhill Cancer Center LLC, McAllen Comprehensive Upper Extremity Center PLLC, McKinney Surgeons PLLC, Mechanicsville Imaging LLC, Mecklenburg Surgical Land Development Ltd., Med City Dallas Outpatient Surgery Center L.P., Med Corp. Inc., Med Group - Southern Hills Hospitalists LLC, Med-Center Hosp./Houston Inc., Med-Point of New Hampshire Inc., Medi Flight of Oklahoma LLC, MediCredit Inc., MediPurchase Inc., MediStone Healthcare Ventures Inc., MediVision Inc., MediVision of Mecklenburg County Inc., MediVision of Tampa Inc., Medical Arts Hospital of Texarkana Inc., Medical Associates of Ocala LLC, Medical Care America Colorado LLC, Medical Care America LLC, Medical Care Financial Services Corp., Medical Care Real Estate Finance Inc., Medical Care Surgery Center Inc., Medical Center - West Inc., Medical Center Imaging Inc., Medical Center Surgery Associates L.P., Medical Center of Baton Rouge Inc., Medical Center of Plano Partner LLC, Medical Center of Port St. Lucie Inc., Medical Center of Santa Rosa Inc., Medical Center of Southwest Florida LLC, Medical Centers of Oklahoma LLC, Medical City Dallas Hospital Inc., Medical City Dallas Partner LLC, Medical City Dallas Primary Care PLLC, Medical City Frisco, Medical City OB-GYN PLLC, Medical City Pediatrics PLLC, Medical City Specialty Surgicenter of Dallas LLC, Medical City Surgery Center of Alliance LLC, Medical City Surgery Center of Frisco LLC, Medical City Surgery Center of Lewisville LLC, Medical City Transplant PLLC, Medical Corporation of America, Medical Group - Dickson Inc., Medical Group - Southern Hills of Brentwood LLC, Medical Group - Southern Hills of Nolensville LLC, Medical Group - StoneCrest FP Inc., Medical Group - StoneCrest Inc., Medical Group - Stonecrest Pulmonology LLC, Medical Group - Summit Inc., Medical Imaging Inc., Medical Imaging of Colorado LLC, Medical Office Buildings of Kansas LLC, Medical Oncology Associates LLC, Medical Partners of North Florida LLC, Medical Plaza Ambulatory Surgery Center Associates L.P., Medical Specialties Inc., Memorial Family Practice Associates LLC, Memorial Health Primary Care at St. Johns Bluff LLC, Memorial Healthcare Group Inc., Memorial Neurosurgery Group LLC, Memorial Satilla Specialists LLC, Memorial University Medical Center, Menorah Medical Group LLC, Menorah Urgent Care LLC, Mercy ASC LLC, Metairie Primary Care Associates LLC, Methodist Ambulatory Surgery Center of Boerne LLC, Methodist Ambulatory Surgery Center of Landmark LLC, Methodist Cardiology Physicians, Methodist CareNow Physician Associates, Methodist CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, Methodist Healthcare System of San Antonio Ltd. L.L.P., Methodist Inpatient Management Group, Methodist Medical Center ASC L.P., Methodist Physician Alliance, Methodist Physician Practice Services LLC, Methodist Physician Practices PLLC, Metroplex Surgicenters Inc., Metropolitan Multispecialty Physicians Group Inc., Miami Beach EFL Imaging Center LLC, Miami Beach Healthcare Group Ltd., Miami Dade Surgical Specialists LLC, Miami Lakes Surgery Center Ltd., Miami-Dade Cardiology Consultants LLC, Michael Mann M.D. PLLC, Mid-America Surgery Center LLC, Mid-America Surgery Institute LLC, Mid-Cities Surgi-Center Inc., Mid-Continent Health Services Inc., MidAmerica Division Inc., MidAmerica Oncology LLC, Middle Georgia Hospital LLC, Middle Georgia Urgent Care Services LLC, Middle Tennessee Neurology LLC, Midtown Diagnostics LLC, Midwest Cardiology Specialists LLC, Midwest Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery LLC, Midwest Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons of Kansas LLC, Midwest Division - ACH LLC, Midwest Division - CMC LLC, Midwest Division - LRHC LLC, Midwest Division - LSH LLC, Midwest Division - MCI LLC, Midwest Division - MMC LLC, Midwest Division - OPRMC LLC, Midwest Division - RBH LLC, Midwest Division - RMC LLC, Midwest Division Spine Care LLC, Midwest Doctors Group LLC, Midwest Heart & Vascular Specialists LLC, Midwest Holdings Inc., Midwest Infectious Disease Specialists LLC, Midwest Medicine Associates LLC, Midwest Metropolitan Physicians Group LLC, Midwest Oncology Associates LLC, Midwest Trauma Services LLC, Midwest Womens Healthcare Specialists LLC, Mikrod Services Inc., Mill Creek Outpatient Services LLC, Millenium Health Care of Oklahoma Inc., Mission Bay Memorial Hospital Inc., Mission Community Anesthesiology Specialists LLC, Mission Employer Solutions LLC, Mission Health, Mission Health Partners Inc., Missouri Healthcare System L.P., Mobile Corps. Inc., Mobile Heartbeat, Mobile Heartbeat LLC, Montgomery Cancer Center LLC, Montgomery Hospitalists LLC, Montgomery Regional Hospital Inc., Montgomery Surgery Associates LLC, Mountain Division - CVH LLC, Mountain Division Inc., Mountain View Hospital Inc., Mountain View MRI Associates Ltd., Mountain West Surgery Center LLC, MountainStar Behavioral Health LLC, MountainStar Brigham General Surgery LLC, MountainStar Canyon Surgical Clinic LLC, MountainStar Cardiology Ogden Regional LLC, MountainStar Cardiology St. Marks LLC, MountainStar Intensivist Services LLC, MountainStar Medical Group - Cache Valley LLC, MountainStar Medical Group - Ogden Regional Medical Center LLC, MountainStar Medical Group - St. Marks Hospital LLC, MountainStar Medical Group Neurosurgery-St. Marks LLC, MountainStar Medical Group Timpanogos Primary Care LLC, MountainStar Medical Group Timpanogos Specialty Care LLC, MountainStar Specialty Services LLC, MountainStar Urgent Care LLC, MountainView GME Primary Care LLC, Mountainstar Brigham OBGYN LLC, Mountainstar Cardiovascular Services LLC, Mountainstar Ogden Pediatrics LLC, Movement Disorders of North Texas PLLC, Mt. Ogden Utah Surgical Center LLC, NPAS Inc., NPAS Solutions LLC, NT Urgent Care PLLC, NTGP LLC, NTMC Management Company, NTMC Venture Inc., NTX Pathology Program PLLC, Nashville Psychiatric Company Inc., Nashville Shared Services General Partnership, Nashville Surgicenter LLC, Natchez Medical Associates LLC, Natchez Surgery Center LLC, National Association of Senior Friends, National Contact Center Management Group LLC, National Patient Account Services Inc., National Transfer Center Management Services LLC, Navarro Memorial Hospital Inc., NeighborMD Management LLC, Network MS of Florida Inc., Network Management Services Inc., Neuro Affiliates Company, Neuro-Hospitalist of Clear Lake PLLC, NeuroHospitalist of McAllen PLLC, Neurological Eye Specialists of North Texas PLLC, Neurological Specialists PLLC, Neurological Specialists of McKinney PLLC, Neurology Associates of Hendersonville LLC, Neurology Associates of Kansas LLC, Neurosurgery Atlanta LLC, Neurosurgery of Kingwood PLLC, Neurosurgical Associates of North Texas PLLC, Neurosurgical Specialists of El Paso PLLC, Neurosurgical Specialists of North Texas PLLC, Nevada Surgery Center of Southern Hills L.P., Nevada Surgicare of Southern Hills LLC, Nevada Urgent Care Holdings Inc., New Iberia Healthcare LLC, New Iberia Holdings Inc., New Port Richey Hospital Inc., New Port Richey Surgery Center Ltd., New Rose Holding Company Inc., Niceville Family Practice LLC, North Augusta Imaging Management LLC, North Augusta Imaging Services LLC, North Augusta Rehab Health Center LLC, North Austin Plastic Surgery Associates PLLC, North Austin Surgery Center L.P., North Brandon Imaging LLC, North Central Florida Health System Inc., North Central Methodist ASC L.P., North Charleston Diagnostic Imaging Center LLC, North Florida Cancer Center Lake City LLC, North Florida Cancer Center Live Oak LLC, North Florida Cancer Center Tallahassee LLC, North Florida Division I Inc., North Florida Division Practice Inc., North Florida GI Center GP Inc., North Florida GI Center Ltd., North Florida Immediate Care Center Inc., North Florida Neurosurgery LLC, North Florida Outpatient Imaging Center Ltd., North Florida Physician Services Inc., North Florida Physicians LLC, North Florida Radiation Oncology LLC, North Florida Regional Company Care LLC, North Florida Regional Freestanding Surgery Center L.P., North Florida Regional Investments Inc., North Florida Regional Medical Center Inc., North Florida Regional Psychiatry LLC, North Florida Regional Trauma LLC, North Florida Rehab Investments LLC, North Florida Surgical Associates LLC, North Georgia Primary Care Group LLC, North Hills Cardiac Catheterization Center L.P., North Hills Catheterization Lab LLC, North Hills Orthopaedic Surgeons PLLC, North Hills Surgicare L.P., North Houston - TRMC LLC, North Miami Beach Surgery Center Limited Partnership, North Miami Beach Surgical Center LLC, North Palm Beach County Surgery Center LLC, North River Physician Network LLC, North Shore Specialists of Texas PLLC, North Suburban Spine Center L.P., North Tampa Imaging LLC, North Texas - MCA LLC, North Texas Cardiology PLLC, North Texas Craniofacial Fellowship Program PLLC, North Texas Division Inc., North Texas General L.P., North Texas Geriatrics PLLC, North Texas Heart Surgery Center PLLC, North Texas Internal Medicine Specialists PLLC, North Texas Medical Center Inc., North Texas Neuro Stroke OP PLLC, North Texas Pulmonary Critical Care PLLC, North Texas Sports and Orthopedics Center PLLC, North Texas Stroke Center PLLC, North Texas of Hope PLLC, North Transfer Center LLC, Northeast Florida Cancer Services LLC, Northeast Methodist Surgicare Ltd., Northeast PHO Inc., Northern Utah Healthcare Corporation, Northern Utah Healthcare Imaging Holdco LLC, Northern Utah Imaging LLC, Northern Virginia CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Northern Virginia Community Hospital LLC, Northern Virginia Hospital Corporation, Northern Virginia Surgicenter LLC, Northlake Medical Center LLC, Northlake Physician Practice Network Inc., Northlake Surgical Center L.P., Northlake Surgicare Inc., Northside MRI Inc., Northwest Fla. Home Health Agency Inc., Northwest Florida Healthcare Systems Inc., Northwest Florida Multispecialty Physicians LLC, Northwest Florida Primary Care LLC, Northwest Medical Center Inc., Notami (Opelousas) Inc., Notami Hospitals LLC, Notami Hospitals of Florida Inc., Notami Hospitals of Louisiana Inc., Notami Hospitals of Missouri Inc., Notami LLC, Notco LLC, Nuclear Diagnosis Inc., OB Hospitalists of Womans Hospital PLLC, OB/GYN of Brownsville PLLC, OB/Gyn Associates of Denton PLLC, OBS Diagnostic and Treatment Centre LLP, ODP Holdings LLC, ODP Manager LLC, ODP Properties LLC, OHH Imaging Services LLC, OPRMC-HBP LLC, Oak Hill Acquisition Inc., Oak Hill Family Care LLC, Oak Hill Hospitalists LLC, Oakwood Surgery Center Ltd. LLP, Ocala Health Company Care LLC, Ocala Health Imaging Services LLC, Ocala Health Primary Care LLC, Ocala Health Surgical Group LLC, Ocala Health Trauma LLC, Ocala Regional Outpatient Services Inc., Ocala Stereotactic Radiosurgery LLC, Ocala Stereotactic Radiosurgery Partner LLC, Occupational Health Services of PRH LLC, Occupational and Family Medicine of South Texas, Ogden Imaging LLC, Ogden Internal Medicine & Urology LLC, Ogden Regional Health Plan Inc., Ogden Regional Medical Center Professional Billing LLC, Ogden Senior Center LLC, Ogden Tomotherapy LLC, Ogden Tomotherapy Manager LLC, Okaloosa Hospital Inc., Okeechobee Hospital Inc., Oklahoma Holding Company LLC, Oklahoma Outpatient Surgery Limited Partnership, Oklahoma Physicians - Medical Specialties LLC, Oklahoma Physicians - Obstetrics and Gynecology LLC, Oklahoma Physicians - Primary Care LLC, Oklahoma Physicians - Surgical Specialties LLC, Oklahoma Surgicare Inc., Old Fort Village LLC, On-Site Primary Care PLLC, Oncology Services of Corpus Christi LLC, Oncology Services of Corpus Christi Manager LLC, OneSourceMed Inc., Online Pathology Services Limited, Orange County Healthcare LLC, Orange Park Hospitalists LLC, Orange Park Medical Center Inc., Orlando CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Orlando Outpatient Surgical Center Inc., Orlando Outpatient Surgical Center Ltd., Orlando Surgicare Ltd., Orthopaedic Specialty Associates L.P., Orthopaedic Sports Specialty Associates Inc., Orthopedic Hospital Ltd., Orthopedics Specialists LLC, Osceola Neurological Associates LLC, Osceola Physician Network LLC, Osceola Regional Hospital Inc., Osceola Regional Hospitalists LLC, Osceola Surgical Associates LLC, Outpatient Cardiovascular Center of Central Florida LLC, Outpatient GP LLC, Outpatient Services - LAD LLC, Outpatient Services Holdings Inc., Outpatient Surgical Services Ltd., Outpatient Womens and Childrens Surgery Center Ltd., Overland Park Cardiovascular Inc., Overland Park Medical Specialists LLC, Overland Park Orthopedics LLC, Overland Park Surgical Specialties LLC, Oviedo Medical Center LLC, Ozarks Medical Services Inc., P&L Associates, P/SL Hyperbaric Partnership, PET CT LLP, PMM Inc., POH Holdings LLC, PSG Delegated Services LLC, PTS Solutions LLC, Pacific Partners Management Services Inc., Palm Beach EFL Imaging Center LLC, Palm Beach General Surgery LLC, Palm Beach Healthcare System Inc., Palm Beach Hospitalists Program LLC, Palmer Medical Center LLC, Palms West Gastroenterology LLC, Palms West Hospital Limited Partnership, Palms West Surgery Center Ltd., Paragon Physicians Hospital Organization of South Texas Inc., Paragon SDS Inc., Paragon Surgery Centers of Texas Inc., Paragon WSC Inc., Paragon of Texas Health Properties Inc., Parallon Business Solutions LLC, Parallon Enterprises LLC, Parallon Health Information Solutions LLC, Parallon Holdings LLC, Parallon Payroll Solutions LLC, Parallon Physician Services LLC, Parallon Revenue Cycle Services Inc., Park Central Surgical Center Ltd., Park Ridge Surgery Center LLC, Park South Imaging Center Ltd., Park View Insurance Company, Parkersburg SJ Holdings Inc., Parkland Hospitalists Program LLC, Parkland Oncology LLC, Parkland Physician Services Inc., Parkridge East Specialty Associates LLC, Parkridge Hospitalists Inc., Parkridge Medical Associates LLC, Parkridge Medical Center Inc., Parkridge Professionals Inc., Parkside Surgery Center Inc., Parkway Cardiac Center Ltd., Parkway Hospital Inc., Parkway Surgery Services Ltd., Parthenon Insurance Company Limited, Pasadena Bayshore Hospital Inc., PatientKeeper, PatientKeeper Inc., Patients First Neurology LLC, Pavilion 2 Condominium Property LLC, Pavilion 2 Medical Office Building Condominium Association Inc., Pavilion Surgicenter LLC, Peach State Anesthesia Partners LLC, Pearland Institute for Womens Health PLLC, Pearland Partner LLC, Pediatric Anesthesia Consultants of San Antonio PLLC, Pediatric Cardiac Intensivists of North Texas PLLC, Pediatric Critical Care of Clear Lake PLLC, Pediatric Hospitalists of Conroe PLLC, Pediatric Intensivist Group LLC, Pediatric Intensivists of El Paso PLLC, Pediatric Intensivists of North Texas PLLC, Pediatric Specialists of Clear Lake PLLC, Pediatric Specialty Clinic LLC, Pediatric Surgicare Inc., Pediatrics of Greater Houston PLLC, Pensacola Primary Care Inc., Physician Associates of Corporate Woods LLC, Physicians Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Physicians West Surgicenter LLC, Pinellas Medical LLC, Pinnacle Physician Network LLC, Pioneer Medical LLC, Plains Healthcare System Inc., Plano Ambulatory Surgery Associates L.P., Plano Heart Institute L.P., Plano Heart Management LLC, Plano Surgery Center - GP LLC, Plano Surgery Center Real Estate LLC, Plano Surgicenter Real Estate Manager LLC, Plano Urology PLLC, Plantation General Hospital L.P., Plaza Medical Specialists PLLC, Plaza Primary Care PLLC, Plaza Transplant Center PLLC, Podiatry of Clear Lake PLLC, Poinciana Medical Center Inc., Port St. Lucie Surgery Center Ltd., Portland Primary Care LLC, Portsmouth Regional Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Portsmouth Surgicenter LLC, Preferred Hospitals Inc., Preferred Works WC LLC, Premier ASC LLC, Premier Medical Management Ltd., Primary Care Medical Associates Inc., Primary Care Plano PLLC, Primary Care Services of Orlando LLC, Primary Care South PLLC, Primary Care West PLLC, Primary Care of West End LLC, Primary Health Asset Holdings Ltd., Primary Health Group Inc., Primary Health Inc., Primary Health Network of South Texas, Primary Health Physicians PLLC, Primary Medical Management Inc., Proaxis Therapy HealthOne LLC, Provident Professional Building Condominium Association Inc., Psychiatry Services of Osceola LLC, Pulaski Community Hospital Inc., Pulaski Urology LLC, Pulmonary Renal Intensivist Group LLC, Putnam Community Medical Center of North Florida LLC, Putnam Hospital Inc., Putnam Radiation Oncology LLC, Putnam Radiation Oncology Manager LLC, Putnam Surgical Group LLC, Quantum/Bellaire Imaging Ltd., Quick Care Centers LLC, Quivira Internal Medicine Inc., RCH LLC, RMC - Pulmonary LLC, RMC Transplant Physicians LLC, RMCA Professionals Mgmt LLC, ROi CPS LLC, Radford Family Medicine LLC, Radiation Oncology Center of Thornton LLC, Radiation Oncology Manager LLC, Raleigh Community Medical Office Building Ltd., Rapides After Hours Clinic L.L.C., Rapides Healthcare System L.L.C., Rapides Regional Physician Group LLC, Rapides Regional Physician Group Primary Care LLC, Rapides Regional Physician Group Specialty Care LLC, Rapides Surgery Center LLC, Raulerson GYN LLC, Raulerson Gastroenterology LLC, Raulerson Primary Care LLC, Raymore Medical Group LLC, Red Rock Holdco LLC, Red Rock at Smoke Ranch LLC, Red Rocks Surgery Center LLC, Redmond Anesthesia Services LLC, Redmond Hospital Services LLC, Redmond Neurosurgery LLC, Redmond Park Health Services Inc., Redmond Park Hospital LLC, Redmond Physician Practice Company, Redmond Specialty Services LLC, Regional Hospital Healthcare Partners LLC, Research Cardiology Associates LLC, Research Family Physicians LLC, Research Internal Medicine LLC, Research Neurology Associates LLC, Research Neuroscience Institute LLC, Resource Optimization & Innovation L.L.C., Reston Hospital Center LLC, Reston Hospitalists LLC, Reston Surgery Center L.P., Retreat Cardiology LLC, Retreat Hospital LLC, Retreat Internal Medicine LLC, Retreat Surgical Associates LLC, Rhodes Limited-Liability Company, Richmond Imaging Employer Corp., Richmond Multi-Specialty LLC, Richmond Pediatric Surgeons LLC, Ridgeline Surgicenter LLC, Rim Building Partners L.P., Rio Grande Healthcare MSO Inc., Rio Grande NP Inc., Rio Grande Regional Hospital Inc., Rio Grande Valley Cardiology PLLC, Rio Grande Valley CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, Rio Grande Valley Urology PLLC, Riverside CyberKnife Manager LLC, Riverside Healthcare System L.P., Riverside Holdings Inc., Riverside Hospital Inc., Riverside Imaging LLC, Riverwalk ASC LLC, Roanoke Imaging LLC, Roanoke Neurosurgery LLC, Roanoke Surgery Center L.P., Roanoke Valley Gynecology LLC, Robotic Radiosurgery LLP, Rocky Mountain Pediatric Hematology Oncology LLC, Rocky Mountain Surgery Center LLC, Rome Imaging Center Limited Partnership, Roodlane Medical Limited, Rose Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Rose Health Partners LLC, Rose Medical Plaza Ltd., Rose POB Inc., Rosewood Medical Center Inc., Rosewood Professional Building Ltd., Round Rock Hospital Inc., Round Rock Trauma Surgeons PLLC, Royal Oaks Surgery Center L.P., S.A. Medical Center Inc., SAPN LLC, SCRI Global Services Limited, SCRI Holdings LLC, SCRI Scientifics LLC, SJMC LLC, SSHR Holdco LLC, SSJ St. Petersburg Holdings Inc., STPN Manager LLC, SWMC Inc., Sahara Outpatient Surgery Center Ltd., Salem Hospitalists LLC, Salem Surgery Center Limited Partnership, Salt Lake City Surgicare Inc., Samaritan LLC, San Antonio Division Inc., San Antonio Regional Hospital Inc., San Antonio Surgicenter LLC, San Bernardino Imaging LLC, San Joaquin Surgical Center Inc., San Jose Healthcare System LP, San Jose Hospital L.P., San Jose LLC, San Jose Medical Center LLC, San Jose Pathology Outreach LLC, San Marcos ASC LLC, San Marcos Surgicenter LLC, Sante Fe Family Practitioners PLLC, Sarah Cannon Development Innovations LLC, Sarah Cannon Research Institute LLC, Sarah Cannon Research Institute UK Limited, Sarasota Doctors Hospital Inc., Savannah Behavioral Health Associates LLC, Savannah Health Network LLC, Savannah Health Services LLC, Savannah Inpatient Services LLC, Savannah Multispecialty Associates LLC, Savannah Pediatric Care LLC, Savannah Primary Care Associates LLC, Sebring Health Services LLC, Selma Medical Center Hospital Inc., Senior Health Associates LLC, Short Pump Imaging LLC, Silicon Valley Health Holdings LLC, Silicon Valley Surgery Center L.P., Silicon Valley Surgicenter LLC, Sky Ridge Spine Manager LLC, Sky Ridge Surgery Center L.P., Skyline Medical Group LLC, Skyline Neuroscience Associates LLC, Skyline Rehab Associates LLC, Skyline Specialty Associates LLC, Smith Laboratories Inc., Solis Mammography at Bayshore Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Clear Lake Regional Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Conroe Regional Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Denton Regional Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at HCA Houston Tomball LLC, Solis Mammography at Kingwood Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Las Colinas Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Medical Center Alliance LLC, Solis Mammography at Medical Center Arlington LLC, Solis Mammography at Medical Center of Lewisville LLC, Solis Mammography at Medical Center of McKinney LLC, Solis Mammography at Medical Center of Plano LLC, Solis Mammography at Medical City Dallas LLC, Solis Mammography at Pearland Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Rose Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Skyline Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at StoneCrest Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at West Houston Medical Center LLC, Solis Mammography at Womans Hospital of Texas LLC, Solis Mammography of Cedar Hill LLC, Solis Mammography of CyFair LLC, Solis Mammography of Dallas LLC, Solis Mammography of Flower Mound LLC, Solis Mammography of Frisco LLC, Solis Mammography of Garland LLC, Solis Mammography of Grand Prairie LLC, Solis Mammography of Houston NW LLC, Solis Mammography of Katy LLC, Solis Mammography of Louetta/249 LLC, Solis Mammography of Mainland LLC, Solis Mammography of Mansfield LLC, Solis Mammography of Mesquite LLC, Solis Mammography of Montgomery LLC, Solis Mammography of North Cypress LLC, Solis Mammography of North Loop LLC, Solis Mammography of Sugar Land LLC, Solis Mammography of West Plano LLC, Solis Mammography of Womans Place LLC, South Atlantic Division Inc., South Austin Surgery Center Ltd., South Austin Surgical Management LLC, South Austin Surgicenter LLC, South Brandon Imaging LLC, South Florida Division Practice Inc., South Texas Surgicare Inc., South Transfer Center LLC, South Valley Hospital L.P., Southeast Georgia Health Services LLC, Southern Hills Medical Center LLC, Southern Hills Neurology Consultants LLC, Southern Kentucky Medicine Associates LLC, Southern Kentucky Surgicenter LLC, Southern Texas Physicians Network, Southpoint LLC, Southtown Womens Clinic LLC, Southwest Florida Health System Inc., Southwest Florida Regional Medical Center Inc., Southwest Medical Center Family Practice LLC, Southwest Medical Center Multi-Specialty Group LLC, Southwest Medical Center Surgical Group LLC, Southwest Medpro Ltd., Southwest Surgical Clinic Inc., Southwest Virginia Orthopedics and Spine LLC, Spalding Rehabilitation L.L.C., Specialists in Obstetrics and Gynecology PLLC, Specialty Associates of West Houston PLLC, Specialty Physicians of Northern Virginia LLC, Specialty Surgicare of Las Vegas LP, Spotsylvania Condominium Property LLC, Spotsylvania Medical Center Inc., Spotsylvania Multi-Specialty Group LLC, Spotsylvania Regional Surgery Center LLC, Spring Branch Family Practitioners PLLC, Spring Branch Medical Center Inc., Spring Hill Hospital Inc., Spring Hill Imaging LLC, Spring Hill Physicians LLC, Springview KY LLC, Spruce Pine Healthcare LLC, St. Davids Austin Area ASC LLC, St. Davids Cardiology PLLC, St. Davids CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, St. Davids Healthcare Partnership L.P. LLP, St. Davids Heart & Vascular PLLC, St. Davids Neurology PLLC, St. Davids OB Hospitalist PLLC, St. Davids Ortho Neuro and Rehab PLLC, St. Davids Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation PLLC, St. Davids Quality Alliance LLC, St. Davids Specialized Womens Services PLLC, St. Davids Trauma Surgeons PLLC, St. Lucie Hospitalists LLC, St. Lucie Medical Center Hyperbarics LLC, St. Lucie Medical Center Walk-In Clinic LLC, St. Lucie Medical Specialists LLC, St. Lucie West Primary Care LLC, St. Marks Ambulatory Surgery Associates L.P., St. Marks Gynecology Oncology Care LLC, St. Marks Investments Inc., St. Marks Physician Billing LLC, St. Marks Professional Services LLC, St. Marks South Jordan Family Practice LLC, St. Martins Healthcare Limited, St. Martins Ltd., St. Martins Medical Services Limited, St. Petersburg General Surgery LLC, Stafford Imaging LLC, Statland Medical Group LLC, Steamboat Springs Surgicenter LLC, Sterling Primary Care Associates LLC, Stiles Road Imaging LLC, StoneCrest Surgery Center LLC, StoneSprings Medical Office Building Property LLC, StoneSprings Surgicenter LLC, Stonecrest Medical Group - Family Practice of Murfreesboro LLC, Stonecrest Medical Group - SC Murfreesboro Family Practice LLC, Stones River Hospital LLC, Suburban Medical Center at Hoffman Estates Inc., Sugar Land Surgery Center Anesthesia LLC, Sugar Land Surgery Center Ltd., Sullins Surgical Center Inc., Summit Convenient Care at Lebanon LLC, Summit General Partner Inc., Summit Heart LLC, Summit Outpatient Diagnostic Center LLC, Summit Research Solutions LLC, Summit Surgery Center L.P., Summit Surgical Associates LLC, Summit Walk-in Clinic LLC, Sun Bay Medical Office Building Inc., Sun City Hospital Inc., Sun City Imaging LLC, Sun Towers/Vista Hills Holding Co., Sun-Med LLC, Sunrise Flamingo Holdings LLC, Sunrise Flamingo Surgery Center Limited Partnership, Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center LLC, Sunrise Mountainview Hospital Inc., Sunrise Mountainview Multi-Specialty Clinics LLC, Sunrise Outpatient Services Inc., Sunrise Physician Services LLC, Sunrise Trauma Services LLC, Surgery Associates of NTX PLLC, Surgery Center of Atlantis LLC, Surgery Center of Aventura Ltd., Surgery Center of Bay Area Houston LLC, Surgery Center of Greenview L.P., Surgery Center of Independence L.P., Surgery Center of Overland Park L.P., Surgery Center of Port Charlotte Ltd., Surgery Center of Rome L.P., Surgery Center of the Rockies LLC, Surgical Associates of Southwest Virginia LLC, Surgical Care Medical Group LLC, Surgical Center of Irving Inc., Surgical Facility of West Houston L.P., Surgical Park Center Ltd., Surgical Specialists of Clear Lake PLLC, Surgical Specialists of Conroe PLLC, Surgical Specialists of Corpus Christi PLLC, Surgicare America - Winter Park Inc., Surgicare Merger Company of Louisiana, Surgicare Outpatient Center of Baton Rouge Inc., Surgicare Outpatient Center of Jackson Inc., Surgicare of ADC LLC, Surgicare of AGI LLC, Surgicare of Alpine LLC, Surgicare of Altamonte Springs Inc., Surgicare of Anchorage LLC, Surgicare of Arapahoe LLC, Surgicare of Arlington LLC, Surgicare of Ashburn LLC, Surgicare of Augusta Inc., Surgicare of Aurora Endoscopy LLC, Surgicare of Aventura LLC, Surgicare of Bay Area Endoscopy LLC, Surgicare of Bay Area LLC, Surgicare of Bayonet Point Inc., Surgicare of Bayside LLC, Surgicare of Bountiful LLC, Surgicare of Brandon Inc., Surgicare of Brentwood LLC, Surgicare of Brighton LLC, Surgicare of Brooksville LLC, Surgicare of Brownsville LLC, Surgicare of Buckhead LLC, Surgicare of CAREOS LLC, Surgicare of Central Florida Inc., Surgicare of Central Park Surgery Center LLC, Surgicare of Central San Antonio Inc., Surgicare of Chattanooga LLC, Surgicare of Chippenham LLC, Surgicare of Citrus LLC, Surgicare of Clarksville LLC, Surgicare of Corpus Christi LLC, Surgicare of Countryside Inc., Surgicare of Dallas Specialty LLC, Surgicare of Denton Inc., Surgicare of Denver Clinic LLC, Surgicare of Denver LLC, Surgicare of Denver Mid-Town Inc., Surgicare of Dickson LLC, Surgicare of Eastside LLC, Surgicare of Evans Inc., Surgicare of Fairfax Inc., Surgicare of Florida Inc., Surgicare of Flower Mound Inc., Surgicare of Focus Hand LLC, Surgicare of Fort Worth Co-GP LLC, Surgicare of Fort Worth Inc., Surgicare of Ft. Pierce Inc., Surgicare of Good Samaritan LLC, Surgicare of Gramercy Inc., Surgicare of Greenview Inc., Surgicare of Hanover Inc., Surgicare of Houston Kingwood LLC, Surgicare of Houston LLC, Surgicare of Houston Womens Inc., Surgicare of Indianapolis Inc., Surgicare of Kansas City LLC, Surgicare of Kingwood LLC, Surgicare of Kissimmee Inc., Surgicare of Lakeview Inc., Surgicare of Las Vegas Inc., Surgicare of Laurel Grove LLC, Surgicare of Lorain County Inc., Surgicare of Los Gatos Inc., Surgicare of Los Robles LLC, Surgicare of Loveland LLC, Surgicare of Madison Inc., Surgicare of Manatee Inc., Surgicare of McKinney Inc., Surgicare of Medical City Dallas LLC, Surgicare of Memorial Endoscopy LLC, Surgicare of Merritt Island Inc., Surgicare of Miami Lakes LLC, Surgicare of Mountain West LLC, Surgicare of Mt. Ogden LLC, Surgicare of Nashville LLC, Surgicare of Natchez LLC, Surgicare of Newport Richey Inc., Surgicare of North Austin LLC, Surgicare of North San Antonio Inc., Surgicare of Northeast San Antonio Inc., Surgicare of Orange Park II LLC, Surgicare of Orange Park Inc., Surgicare of Orange Park Ltd., Surgicare of Orlando Inc., Surgicare of Overland Park LLC, Surgicare of Palms West LLC, Surgicare of Park Ridge LLC, Surgicare of Pasadena Inc., Surgicare of Pavilion LLC, Surgicare of Physicians West El Paso LLC, Surgicare of Pinellas Inc., Surgicare of Plano Inc., Surgicare of Plantation Inc., Surgicare of Port Charlotte LLC, Surgicare of Port St. Lucie Inc., Surgicare of Portsmouth LLC, Surgicare of Premier Orthopaedic LLC, Surgicare of Reston Inc., Surgicare of Ridgeline LLC, Surgicare of Riverside LLC, Surgicare of Riverwalk LLC, Surgicare of Roanoke LLC, Surgicare of Rome Inc., Surgicare of Rose LLC, Surgicare of Round Rock Inc., Surgicare of Royal Oaks LLC, Surgicare of Silicon Valley LLC, Surgicare of Sky Ridge LLC, Surgicare of Sky Ridge Womens Center LLC, Surgicare of South Austin Inc., Surgicare of Southeast Denver Inc., Surgicare of Southern Hills Inc., Surgicare of Southern Kentucky LLC, Surgicare of Southwest Houston LLC, Surgicare of Spotsylvania LLC, Surgicare of St. Andrews Inc., Surgicare of St. Andrews Ltd., Surgicare of St. Davids Austin LLC, Surgicare of Steamboat Springs LLC, Surgicare of StoneCrest LLC, Surgicare of StoneSprings LLC, Surgicare of Stuart Inc., Surgicare of Sugar Land Inc., Surgicare of Swedish LLC, Surgicare of Tallahassee Inc., Surgicare of Terre Haute LLC, Surgicare of Thornton LLC, Surgicare of Travis Center Inc., Surgicare of Tulsa Inc., Surgicare of Utah LLC, Surgicare of Wasatch Front LLC, Surgicare of West Hills Inc., Surgicare of Westlake Inc., Surgicare of Wichita Inc., Surgicare of Wichita LLC, Surgicare of Willis LLC, Surgicare of Wilson County LLC, Surgicare of Winchester LLC, Surgicenter of East Jefferson Inc., Surgicenter of Johnson County Ltd. a Kansas limited partnership, Surgicenter of Kansas City L.L.C., Surgico LLC, Swedish MOB Acquisition Inc., Swedish MOB I Ltd., Swedish MOB II Inc., Swedish MOB III Inc., Swedish MOB IV Inc., Swedish MOB LLC, Swedish Medpro Inc., TBHI Outpatient Services LLC, TCMC Madison-Portland Inc., THN Physicians Association Inc., TUHC Anesthesiology Group LLC, TUHC Hospitalist Group LLC, TUHC Physician Group LLC, TUHC Primary Care and Pediatrics Group LLC, TUHC Radiology Group LLC, Tallahassee Community Network Inc., Tallahassee Medical Center Inc., Tallahassee Orthopaedic Surgery Partners Ltd., Tampa Bay Health System Inc., Tampa Surgi-Centre Inc., Tarrant County Surgery Center L.P., Tchefuncte Cardiology Associates - Lakeview LLC, Teays Valley Health Services LLC, Telehealth Physician Services LLC, Tennessee Healthcare Management Inc., Tennessee Valley Outpatient Diagnostic Center LLC, Terre Haute Hospital GP Inc., Terre Haute Hospital Holdings Inc., Terre Haute MOB L.P., Terre Haute Obstetrics and Gynecology LLC, Terre Haute Regional Hospital L.P., Texas CareNow Physician Associates, Texas HSS LLC, Texas Institute of Medicine and Surgery, Texas Psychiatric Company Inc., The Austin Diagnostic Clinic PLLC, The Cancer Care Center of North Florida LLC, The Cardiovascular Partnership for Quality LLC, The Charter Cypress Behavioral Health System L.L.C., The Christie Clinic LLP, The Glynne Medical Practice Limited, The Harley Street Cancer Clinic Limited, The London Breast Institute UK Ltd, The Medical Group of Kansas City LLC, The Neurohealth Sciences Center LLC, The Physicians Clinic Limited, The Prostate Centre Limited, The Rankin Foundation, The Regional Health System of Acadiana LLC, The Wasatch Endoscopy Center Ltd., The West Texas Division of Columbia Inc., Timpanogos Pain Specialists LLC, Timpanogos Regional Medical Services Inc., Total Imaging - Hudson LLC, Total Imaging - North St. Petersburg LLC, Total Imaging - Parsons LLC, Town Plaza Family Practice LLC, Travel Medicine and Infections LLC, Travis Surgery Center L.P., Tri Cities Health Services Corp., Tri-City Multi-Specialty LLC, Tri-County Community Hospital Inc., Tri-County Surgical Specialists LLC, TriStar Bone Marrow Transplant LLC, TriStar Cardiovascular Surgery LLC, TriStar Family Care LLC, TriStar Gynecology Oncology LLC, TriStar Health System Inc., TriStar Joint Replacement Institute LLC, TriStar Maury Behavioral Healthcare LLC, TriStar Medical Group - Centennial Primary Care LLC, TriStar Medical Group - Legacy Health LLC, TriStar Medical Network LLC, TriStar OB/GYN LLC, TriStar Orthopedics LLC, TriStar Physicians LLC, TriStar Radiation Oncology LLC, Trident Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Trident Behavioral Health Services LLC, Trident Eye Surgery Center L.P., Trident Medical Center LLC, Trident Medical Services Inc., Trident Neonatology Services LLC, Tulane Clinic LLC, Tulane Professionals Management L.L.C., Tuscan Imaging Center at Las Colinas LLC, U.S. Collections Inc., Ultra Imaging Management Services LLC, Ultra Imaging of Tampa LLC, University Healthcare Specialists LLC, University Healthcare System L.C., University Hospital Ltd., Uptown Primary Care Associates LLC, Urgent Care Enterprise LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Ann & Simmons LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Cactus & Southern Highlands LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Charleston & Decatur LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Charleston/Sloan LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Craig & Clayton LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Craig & Decatur LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Durango & Cheyenne LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Durango & Flamingo LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Eastern & Horizon Ridge LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Rainbow/Mardon LLC, Urgent Care Extra - Warm Springs & Green Valley LLC, Urgent Care Extra Silverado & Maryland LLC, Urgent Care Extra-Tropicana & Jones LLC, Urgent Care Nevada LLC, Urological Specialists of Arlington PLLC, Urology Associates (London) Limited, Urology Center of North Georgia LLC, Urology Services of El Paso PLLC, Urology Specialists Devonshire LLP, Urology Specialists London LLP, Urology Specialists of Kingwood PLLC, Urology Specialists of Richmond LLC, Urology Surgery Center of Colorado LLC, Utah CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Utah Imaging GP LLC, Utah Medco LLC, Utah Surgery Center L.P., VH Holdco Inc., VH Holdings Inc., VHSC Plantation LLC, VIP Inc., Valify, Valify Inc., Value Health Holdings Inc., Value Health Management Inc., Vascular and Endovascular Specialists LLC, Venture Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Venture Medical Management LLC, Village Oaks Medical Center Inc., Virginia Care Partners ACO LLC, Virginia Gynecologic Oncology LLC, Virginia Hematology & Oncology Associates Inc., Virginia Hospitalists Inc., Virginia Psychiatric Company Inc., Virginia Quality Care Partners LLC, Vision Consulting Group LLC, Vision Holdings LLC, W & C Hospital Inc., WCP Properties LLC, WHG Medical LLC, WHMC Inc., WJHC LLC, Walterboro Community Hospital Inc., Warren County Ambulance Service LLC, Wasatch Front Surgery Center LLC, Washington Holdco LLC, Waterway Primary Care LLC, Weatherford Health Services LLC, Weatherford Mammography JV LLC, Weatherford Regional Medical Center, Welbeck Street Diagnostic Centre LLP, Wellington Diagnostic Services LLP, Wesley Cath Lab LLC, Wesley Manager LLC, Wesley Medical Center LLC, Wesley Physician Services LLC, Wesley Physicians - Anesthesiologist LLC, Wesley Physicians - Cardiovascular LLC, Wesley Physicians - Medical Specialties LLC, Wesley Physicians - Obstetrics and Gynecology LLC, Wesley Physicians - Primary Care LLC, Wesley Select Network LLC, Wesley Urgent Care LLC, West Boynton Beach Open Imaging Center LLC, West Creek Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, West Creek Medical Center Inc., West Florida - MHT LLC, West Florida - PPH LLC, West Florida Behavioral Health Inc., West Florida Cardiology Network LLC, West Florida Cardiology Physicians LLC, West Florida CareNow Urgent Care LLC, West Florida Division Inc., West Florida Gulf Coast Primary Care LLC, West Florida HealthWorks LLC, West Florida Imaging Services LLC, West Florida Internal Medicine LLC, West Florida PET Services LLC, West Florida Physician Network LLC, West Florida Professional Billing LLC, West Florida Regional Medical Center Inc., West Florida Specialty Physicians LLC, West Florida Trauma Network LLC, West Florida Urgent Care Network LLC, West Hills Hospital, West Hills Surgical Center Ltd., West Houston ASC Inc., West Houston Healthcare Group Ltd., West Houston Internal Specialists PLLC, West Houston LLC, West Houston Medical PLLC, West Houston Outpatient Medical Facility Inc., West Houston Surgicare Inc., West Jacksonville Medical Center Inc., West Jordan Hospital Corporation, West LPN Fort Worth Oncology PLLC, West LPN Inc., West Los Angeles Physicians Hospital Inc., West McKinney Imaging Services LLC, West Paces Services Inc., West Park Surgery Center L.P., West Valley Imaging LLC, West Valley Medical Center Inc., West Valley Medical Group LLC, West Valley Medical Group Specialty Services LLC, West Valley Therapy Services LLC, Westbury Hospital Inc., Western Plains Capital Inc., Westlake Surgicare L.P., Westminster Community Hospital, Westside Surgery Center Ltd., Wichita CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Wildwood Medical Center Inc., Willis Surgicenter LLC, Wilson County Outpatient Surgery Center L.P., Womans Health Group PLLC, Womans Hospital Merger LLC, Womans Hospital of Texas Incorporated, Women Practitioners of Houston PLLC, Women Specialists of Bayshore PLLC, Women Specialists of Clear Lake PLLC, Women Specialists of Mainland PLLC, Womens & Childrens Center LLC, Womens & Childrens Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Center LLC, Womens & Childrens Pulmonology Clinic LLC, Womens Center at Brookside LLC, Womens Health Center of Central Florida LLC, Womens Health Center of SWVA LLC, Womens Hospital Indianapolis GP Inc., Womens Hospital Indianapolis L.P., Womens Link Specialty Obstetrical Referral Clinic PLLC, Womens Multi-Specialty Group LLC, Womens Surgical Specialists of Texas PLLC, Womens and Childrens Professional Management L.L.C., Womens and Childrens Specialists LLC, hInsight-Airstrip Holdings LLC, hInsight-BMA Holdings LLC, hInsight-Customer Care Holdings LLC, hInsight-Digital Reasoning Holdings LLC, hInsight-Healthbox Holdings LLC, hInsight-I2 Holdings LLC, hInsight-InVivoLink Holdings LLC, hInsight-LS Holdings LLC, hInsight-Loyale Healthcare Holdings LLC, hInsight-Mobile Heartbeat Holdings LLC, hInsight-NX LLC, hInsight-PWS I Holdings LLC, hInsight-Procured Holdings LLC, and hInsight-VAI Holdings LLC.

Read More
IShares are index funds that are bought and sold like common stocks on national securities exchanges as well as certain foreign exchanges. iShares are attractive because of their relatively low cost, tax efficiency and trading flexibility. Investors can purchase and sell shares through any brokerage firm, financial advisor, or online broker, and hold the funds in any type of brokerage account.
In 1961, American architect Irving Geis received an unusual commission: he was to draw by hand the first protein structure revealed through X-rays. It was myoglobin, which is responsible for oxygenating muscles and for giving flesh its red color. It is a sort of necklace with 153 pearls, which folds into eight tangled helices. It took Geis six months to draw it, but his effort succeeded in awakening worldwide fascination with this invisible inner world. Now, science has progressed. Last year, the Google-owned artificial intelligence company DeepMind managed to accurately predict the structure of over 200 million proteins, that is, almost all known proteins. Spanish bioinformatician Inigo Barrio helped organize that chaos, grouping them by similar shapes. His work reveals surprising data. Humans possess 13 unique structures, which do not appear in any other living beings. Acidobacterium, a ubiquitous bacterium in soil, has nearly 1,900 unique forms.

A living beings DNA holds the recipes for making proteins, the basic building blocks of life. Humans have some 30,000 different types, which are responsible for essential functions such as generating energy, providing support and defending the organism against viruses. They are large and complex molecules; some are simple shapes  spheres, cylinders, rings, stars, spirals and even swastikas  and others are unimaginable structures, like hemoglobin, which transports oxygen through the blood from the lungs to the rest of the body. It has thousands of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur and iron atoms. Hemoglobins formula is CHNOSFe.

Barrio studied this welter at the European Bioinformatics Institute in Hinxton, England. The researcher and his colleagues fine-tuned a new algorithm, called Foldseek Cluster, which can identify similar patterns among the proteins. Barrio used the tool with the AlphaFold database of 215 million proteins. The team has identified 2.3 million types of structures, over 700,000 of them unknown. Understanding a proteins structure is essential to understanding its function and it could potentially help to design new drugs. The researchers published their findings on Wednesday in the journal Nature.

There is almost always a relationship between the structure of a protein and its function. Almost always. In biology, you should never say always, says Barrio, who recently joined the Wellcome Sanger Institute, also in Hinxton, very close to Cambridge. His work has succeeded in linking proteins of known function with unexplored ones. If proteins A and B have a very similar structure, you can infer that they will have a similar function, the researcher explains. His work is reminiscent of an archaeologist extracting mysterious prehistoric tools from the subsoil. If you discover something in the shape of a beak, you can intuit that it is used for chopping, but there are exceptions. A fork and a comb look very similar, but they are not used for the same thing, he observes.

The AlphaFold database includes predictions developed by DeepMind and the European Bioinformatics Institute, part of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory, an organization with over 1,800 employees at sites in Spain, France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom. Analysis of the 215 million proteins suggests that most of the structures appeared very early on in the evolution of living beings, in the common ancestor of animals and plants or even earlier. Only 4% of the configurations appear to be specific to a single species.

Humans have 13 protein groups with unique structures, Barrio explains. That figure contrasts with those of the five organisms with the most unique three-dimensional shapes: the bacteria Acidobacteria bacterium, Escherichia coli and Chloroflexi bacterium, the Asian spider Araneus ventricosus and the Pharaoh cuttlefish, with between 1,400 and 1,900 unique structures each. We tend to see evolution as a linear process, but its more like a tree. We are at the end of a branch, but bacteria have continued to evolve on their own branches. There are bacteria [that are] newer than us, the bioinformatician explains. Moreover, developing a new structure for a new problem is not always the best way to evolve. Often, structures are recycled. There are proteins in the human species that possibly have a different function than the one they had in our ancestors, Barrio says.

Bioinformatician Inigo Barrio, photographed this Wednesday at the Wellcome Sanger Institute in Hinxton, England. Instituto Wellcome Sanger

The British company DeepMind boasts that its artificial intelligence system achieves 95% accuracy. However, nine of the 13 uniquely human structures are based on predictions with high uncertainty; according to Barrio, that might be because they are particularly disorganized conformations. The remaining four are VPS53, which is involved in transport within cells; U54, a herpes virus protein integrated into the human genome; annexins, which are involved in crossing cell membranes; and a fourth little-studied protein that may be more of a simple fragment. The 30,000 types of human proteins are grouped into some 9,000 structures.

Another of the studys lead authors, Portuguese bioinformatician Pedro Beltrao, highlights the finding of human proteins involved in the immune system that are very similar to other bacterial proteins of unknown function. This suggests that proteins involved in the immune system could have an ancient evolutionary origin, which we share with bacterial species. If true, this could transform what we know about immunity, Beltrao, of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, Switzerland, said in a statement.

Biologist Julia Domingo considers the new research, in which she did not participate, very necessary. She explains that we are entering a new era of massive data, and we need new tools to process, analyze and use it at high speed. Along with other colleagues at the Center for Genomic Regulation (CRG) in Barcelona, Spain, Domingo developed a method to identify the hidden buttons that change the function of proteins. Domingo says that structure is not enough to accomplish that task. Other layers of functionality are involved, such as energies and affinity for other proteins, she notes.

It took architect Irving Geis six months to draw myoglobin in 1961. The British chemist who provided him with the data, John Kendrew, won the 1962 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for reading that first structure with X-rays. The possibilities that artificial intelligence and new algorithms open up now are unimaginable, as Inigo Barrio explains. With previous methods, we would have needed 10 years to do this work. It took us five days, he says.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated, through its subsidiaries, operates as an energy company primarily in Mid-Atlantic United States. The company operates through PSE&G and PSEG Power. The PSE&G segment transmits electricity; distributes electricity and gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers, as well as invests in solar generation projects, and energy efficiency and related programs; and offers appliance services and repairs. As of December 31, 2022, it had electric transmission and distribution system of 25,000 circuit miles and 864,000 poles; 55 switching stations with an installed capacity of 39,653 megavolt-amperes (MVA), and 235 substations with an installed capacity of 9,735 MVA; four electric distribution headquarters and five electric sub-headquarters; and 18,000 miles of gas mains, 12 gas distribution headquarters, two sub-headquarters, and one meter shop, as well as 56 natural gas metering and regulating stations. Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated was incorporated in 1985 and is based in Newark, New Jersey.
McDonald's Corporation is a U.S.-based multinational restaurant chain that serves hamburgers, fries, chicken sandwiches and drinks. The company is the largest restaurant chain by revenue and serves more than 69 million customers daily. Total revenue topped $23 billion in 2022, with most revenue coming from its franchisees. The company operates in 100 countries and is the world's second-largest private employer, with more than 200,000 executives, managers, cooks and front-line staff.

McDonald's most iconic food items include French fries and the Big Mac. McDonald's serves hot and crispy fries. Its Big Mac is a double-decker burger with cheese, lettuce, tomato and "secret sauce," a combination of thousand island and French dressing that evokes a sharper flavor.

Richard and Maurice McDonald founded McDonald's in 1940. Its first restaurant location was in San Bernardino, California, and it quickly rebranded into a hamburger stand. The new concept met colossal success, and soon, the two were franchising their brand to other operators. The key to the brother's success was the Speedee Service System introduced in 1948. This system modeled concepts established by earlier chains.

The company introduced the golden arches in 1953 in Arizona and reached a significant turning point in 1955 when Ray Kroc entered the picture. He came aboard as the company's franchising agent and bought the company while expanding it. His first restaurant was the company's ninth total, but many agree that Kroc created the modern McDonald's Corporation. During his tenure, McDonald's expanded its footprint, enhanced its menu and grew into international territories.

The fictional character Ronald McDonald came to life in 1963. He lives in McDonaldland with his pals Mayor McCheese, Grimace, Birdie the Early Bird, the Fry Kids and the Hamburglar. He was invented as a marketing ploy to attract children and has become one of the nation's most beloved characters. At the peak of his popularity, the company employed more than 300 full-time clowns to portray Ronald McDonald.



Today, McDonald's Corporation operates and franchises McDonald's restaurants globally. The company generates revenue via sales in company-owned stores and rents, fees and royalties from its franchisees. The company's business model is to aid franchisees with real estate purchases and buildings so that it can collect on rent and other fees and brand royalties. As of 2022, the company owns about 45% of the land its restaurants sit on and 70% of the buildings. This model not only generates additional revenue and earnings but helps to insulate it from ups and downs in the consumer cycle.

As of December 31, 2023, the company operated about 38,000 restaurants, which includes the closing or divestiture of business in Russia.
GE is a multi-national conglomerate that was originally incorporated in 1892. The company was founded by Thomas Edison as the Edison General Electric Company and shortened its name to General Electric following a merger with two other early electric pioneers. The name was later shortened again to GE. The company is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts but has operations on a global scale. One of the original 12 Dow stocks, the company was a component of the index for 122 years until its ousting in 2018.

Originally intended to make and market Edisons incandescent lamp and following products, the company grew over the years through mergers, acquisitions, and natural expansion into newly created fields. Among the many early accomplishments is the creation of RCA and NBC which will both become forces of their own. Other major innovations include the worlds first turbine superchargers, industrial gas turbine engines, and the first jet engine. In the field of computing, General Electric Company is credited as being one of the 8 major computer companies of the 1960s and shares responsibility for todays digital world. In regard to its employees, two were awarded the Nobel Prize for their work with the company.

Today GE operates as a high-tech industrial company in Europe, China, Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa. The company operates through four segments including Power, Renewables, Aerospace, and Healthcare although there are plans in the works to split the company into three separate entities. The three new companies would be GE Vernova (power and renewables), GE Health, and GE Aerospace. The spin-offs are expected to be completed by 2025.

The Power segment offers a variety of turbine engines for power production as well as the full range of services from plant construction to retrofit and refit. The Renewables segment is focused on solutions for renewable energy including wind and hydro and the technology to operate them. The Aviation segment manufactures aircraft engines of all varieties and the Healthcare segment offers technology for imaging, monitoring, diagnostics, and drug discovery to health and medical facilities.

General Electric is committed to helping the world transition to a greener way of life and is exiting the new-build coal-fired power industry. Instead, its advancements in wind, grid efficiency, and natural gas are being deployed around the world helping to reduce emissions and generate cleaner energy for businesses, industry, and communities. The company is targeting 2030 for its own carbon neutrality and 2050 for net zero emissions.
Deere & Company, a global leader in manufacturing and distributing agricultural, construction, forestry and turf care equipment, is headquartered in Moline, Illinois. With over 185 years of experience, the company has established a strong reputation for quality and innovation.

Deere & Company operates through four segments: small agriculture and turf, production and precision agriculture, construction and forestry and financial services.

The small agriculture and turf segment offers a variety of equipment, including utility tractors, riding lawn equipment, commercial mowing equipment and implements for various outdoor power applications. This segment also resells products from other manufacturers.

The production and precision agriculture segment provides equipment for grain growers, including mid-size tractors, combines, cotton pickers and strippers, sugarcane harvesters and harvesting front-end equipment. It also offers application equipment, such as sprayers, nutrient management systems and soil preparation machinery.

The construction and forestry segment provides various machines and service parts used in earth moving, construction, material handling, road building and timber harvesting. Its products include crawler dozers, backhoe loaders, motor graders, four-wheel-drive loaders, excavators, articulated dump trucks and milling machines, to name a few.

The financial services segment finances sales and leases of agriculture and turf, construction and forestry equipment. It also offers wholesale financing to dealers, extended equipment warranties and retail revolving charge accounts.

Deere & Company is known for its innovative products, including the John Deere Autonomous 8R Tractor, See & Spray and E-Power Backhoe. These technology-enabled products help farmers, construction workers and forestry professionals operate more efficiently and sustainably.

Its logo and slogan reflect the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability. The leaping deer logo has been used for over 155 years and has become synonymous with the company's commitment to quality and reliability. The slogan "Nothing Runs Like a Deere" reflects the company's commitment to building long-lasting and reliable equipment that helps its customers achieve their goals.

Deere & Company has a solid financial position with a global presence. Deere & Company has a vast distribution network and operates in over 160 countries. Its commitment to quality and innovation has earned it a loyal customer base, and it continues to be a leader in the industry.

Deere & Company is a global leader in the manufacturing and distributing of agricultural, construction, forestry and turf care equipment. With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, the company offers customers a wide range of products and services worldwide.
Bank of America has a rich history dating back to 1800 and even earlier. It was begun by immigrants as a group of separate and unrelated banks that, over the years, merged and grew together. One such is the Bank of Italy which was founded in 1904 by Amadeo Giannini to serve Italian immigrants that were facing discrimination. He later buys out the Banca de America e de Italia (Bank of America and Italy) which was also located in San Francisco. Over the years additional mergers and changes in Federal banking legislation, as well as the boom brought on by WWI and then WWII, helped boost the bank to national prominence.

Things turned sour, however, in 1998 with a major bond default that led to yet another merger, this time with Charlotte, NC-based Nations Bank to officially become the Bank of America that exists today. At the time, the merger was the largest bank merger in history and the company has only grown in the time since.

Other additions to the new Bank of America include MBNA (a major credit card operator), Fleet Boston (then the US 7th largest and one of its oldest banks), and Merril Lynch, now Merril, which was added to the group in 2008 to provide an investment banking branch. Together the company dominates as one of the Big Four Banks in America. Bank of America lays claim to nearly 11% of all US deposits which ranks in line with its peer group and Bank of America Securities is listed as the worlds 3rd largest investment bank.

Today, Bank of America Corporation provides banking and financial services for individuals, small businesses, institutions, corporations, and governments worldwide. The bank operates in three segments Consumer Banking, Global Wealth & Investment Management, and Global Banking bringing in a combined revenue greater than $90 billion in 2022.

As of 2022, Bank of America serves approximately 67 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 4,200 retail financial centers. The bank also operates more than 16,000 ATMs and digital banking platforms with approximately 41 million active users.

Its Consumer Banking segment offers traditional banking and investment products for retail clients. These range from deposit accounts to savings, credit cards, consumer loans, and IRAs. The Global Wealth & Investment Management segment offers investment and wealth management solutions including, brokerage, banking, and trust and retirement products. The Global Banking segment provides lending products and services, including commercial loans and leases for businesses of all varieties. The Global Markets segment offers market-making, clearing, settlement, and custody services, as well as risk management, derivatives, and FX exchange services.
Google, the most widely used search engine in the world, now blocks content that it considers sexual or violent. If someone searches, for example, for injury or sex in Google images, they will find some results blurred by default, and will not be able to view them unless they click on view image. This is because SafeSearch, Googles automated filtering system, has been defocusing sexual or violent results by default for all users since August.

The technology company, which turns 25 this month, is seeking to add an extra layer of security and privacy to its browser. Our systems seek to evaluate whether content is shocking or sexually gratifying. SafeSearch is not designed to filter explicit content that has significant artistic, educational, historical, documentary, or scientific value, Google says. The company has issued a guide to help website owners identify this type of content.

Google registers over 3.5 billion searches per day, according to the analysis company Semrush. Until the new guidelines were introduced, SafeSearch blurred searches with explicit results for minors between the ages of 14 and 18, but only if they were logged in to their Google accounts. Now, this is the case for all sexual and violent content, although minors in this age group remain protected by default. The tool also makes it possible to exclude sexual or violent content from the search engine, but this is not applied by default for all users.

Googles new feature blurs images that it classifies as sensitive, but it does not block them. Paloma Llaneza, a lawyer and cybersecurity expert, points out that these measures mask content and can be easily removed. They do not limit access, she explained. Users can adjust SafeSearch settings and disable it at any time, unless a parent or the administrator of an educational network has blocked access to Google settings. Instagram and Facebook, both Meta social networks, also have similar features to blur images and provide an alert on explicit posts.

Parental control

As of February, parents can also use SafeSearch as a control measure. Part of Googles Family Link app, it allows parents to set screen time limits and enforce content restrictions, among other features. They are easy to use and allow you to understand what your children spend their time looking at on their devices and to manage privacy settings, the company explained to EL PAIS in March.

According to a report published by the Spanish National Technology and Society Observatory, 98% of children aged between 10 and 15 have been using the internet regularly since the pandemic. Misinformation, manipulation, psychological damage and addictions are some of the consequences of minors being exposed to inappropriate content, as laid out by the Spanish National Cybersecurity Institute (INCIBE). Cybersecurity expert Hugo Alvarez says that the effects can be very damaging. They distort reality, normalizing violence and contributing to making young people think that the model of a sexual relationship is that of a porn movie, which almost always objectifies women, he says.

Personal explicit images

Another of Googles new developments to improve user privacy is the companys updated policy on personal images. If someone appears on Google in an intimate situation, performing a sexual act, or naked, and without having given their consent, they can ask the company to remove the image. To do so, it is also a stipulation that the user is not profiting financially from that image. Another new feature is the ability to remove content that has been republished, despite having been deleted in the past. In addition, it is now similar to request this type of material be removed. These changes give the user more control over their image and digital footprint, although it should be noted that what is removed from Google does not disappear from the web or other search engines.

Results about you

Last year, the technology company launched the Results about you tool to allow users to remove their personal information, such as phone numbers, street addresses or email addresses, from search results. This feature also notifies the user when their personal data appears on Google. At the moment, the new system is only available in the United States for search results in English, but the company has stated it is working to bring it to new languages and locations soon.

Despite search engines benefiting from increasingly advanced and secure tools, the Spanish Data Protection Agency points out that they are not foolproof. The agency recommends accompanying these methods with adequate education on the safe use of technology, the dangers of the internet, and the importance of minors being able to take their own security measures.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
In DisConnected, Steve Taylor talks about how narcissists and psychopaths are often found in positions of power  be it political, business or otherwise. Taylor, who is professor of Psychology at Leeds Beckett University, uses the term pathocracy to describe countries or organizations that are controlled by these kinds of people, who have little or no empathy for the suffering caused by their decisions.

Taylor believes this cruelty is a result of their disconnection from humanity. It is the polar opposite of compassion, which allows us to connect with the suffering of others. Leaders who are narcissists or psychopaths rule in a patriarchal and hierarchical way, and have a warlike attitude against those who oppose them. Everyone will be able to think of more than one example  some painfully relevant  that fits this model.

In his book The Wisdom of Psychopaths, psychologist Kevin Dutton also argued that psychopathic traits are very common in successful leaders, since their own disorder helps them to thrive. According to the Oxford and Cambridge researcher, leaders of pathocracies share the following eight traits:

Social influence. Narcissists and most psychopaths love the spotlight. They handle themselves well in front of the public, who see them as charismatic.

Fearlessness. What the average citizen would not dare to say, the disconnected leader will express naturally. The same thing goes for his actions, which is why this type of leader usually undertakes risky endeavors.

Immune to stress. These leaders thrive on difficulties, protests and disputes, they like to swim against the current. They feel at home surrounded by chaos. This gives them a competitive advantage over softer opponents.

Machiavellian egocentrism. Whoever leads a pathocracy is looking to carve out their place in history, regardless of what it will cost the victims, who are considered collateral damage for a greater good.

Rebellious nonconformity. This trait is seen in Eduard Limonov, the founder of the National Bolshevik Party, who is described by his biographer Emmanuel Carrere as having a dangerous lack of concern about the results of his actions. The attempted invasion of Russia by Napoleon or Hitler are another two well-known examples.

Coldness. Steve Taylor uses the term disconnection to explain these leaders lack of sensitivity towards the suffering of others, something that someone who is a victim of workplace harassment has first-hand experience of.

Curiously, many people tend to associate empathic people with being less effective. Perhaps thats why in U.S. surveys, respondents negatively view the work of presidents considered discreet such as Jimmy Carter or Gerald Ford, while leaders with the above traits are perceived as having the authority to solve problems.

When it comes to psychopaths, Taylor points out that many of them had a traumatic childhood, whether due to parental neglect or being witnesses or victims of violence. Once they have developed psychopathic behavior, many therapists believe it is almost impossible to treat them, precisely because they do not believe that they are wrong, much less sick. Taylor recommends meditation as a possible remedy to heal these people. However, the person must be able to pause, forget about the enemy outside and focus on a much more difficult and terrible foe: the one inside them.

Psychopaths can also be transformed by direct contact with the victims of their actions, as has been seen in meetings between terrorists and relatives of their victims. In these cases, the aggressor can no longer hide behind an idea, because they have before them a human being who could be their brother, daughter or themselves. This facilitates the miracle of connection.

Gandhi's letters to Hitler

Is it possible to move the heart of a pathocratic leader? History would suggest this cannot be done. In 1939, for example, Gandhi decided to write to Hitler after learning of the invasion of Czechoslovakia. He began the letter with an empathetic: Dear friend, and asked: Will you listen to the appeal of one who has deliberately shunned the method of war not without considerable success?

We do not know if the letter reached Hitler, who never responded, but a year later Gandhi tried again with a second letter, in which he begged Hitler to end the war by appealing to his sense of humanity. Both efforts failed, which suggests that convincing these kinds of people to reflect is no easy matter.
Tania y naranjos en estudio

Tania Marmolejo: A Latina artist auction sensation A conversation with the Swedish-Dominican American artist about the immigrant experience, the challenges of being a female artist, and the dangers and rewards of performing exceptionally in a secondary market

Fulfilling, she answers when asked to summarize the last 25 years of her life in one word. Fulfilling, she emphasizes, slightly narrowing her eyes as if reminiscing. Because Ive worked so hard, and my journey has been exciting, very fun, sometimes really hard. Ive had heartbreak. Ive had fun. Ive had success. Ive found myself at rock bottom and then gone up again, she adds. So, after those 25 years to be where I am now, exactly where I am now, I can look back and feel like Ive reached something that I always wanted to do. Ive done what I wanted. Ive reached a place where I want to be. And right now, Im there. Im where I want to be, its very fulfilling.

A journey that began for the Swedish-Dominican American artist Tania Marmolejo Andersson with her trip to New York in 1998, after graduating in Fine Arts from the Altos de Chavon School of Design in the Dominican Republic, with a scholarship to continue her studies at Parson The New School for Design, receiving her degree in Fine Arts and Illustration in 2000. As a student, I had a lot of fun, but it was also very confusing. I arrived at Parsons with a merit scholarship, so my studies were taken care of, but New York was still shockingly expensive, she explains.

It was a struggle to find your place there, she continues. There are so many people. There were so many types of possibilities of what you could do. I think that at the same time, I was having fun because I was free, I was a young adult, and I was also anxious. It was like, what am I supposed to be doing here? How am I going to live here? Marmolejo admits. Its not a very easy city, and youre in constant survival mode trying to figure out what steps to take next, she tells me via videocall from her summer home in Malaga, Spain, where she is spending a few days. She and her husband will go hiking in the Swiss Alps, their main hobby, along with traveling, before the opening of her next exhibition, The Nurturing Wild, on September 2, at Kutlesa Gallery in the center of Switzerland, next to Mount Rigi.

TANIA STUDIO DOUBLE FACE 1

I think most immigrants sort of feel that even when you are comfortable, you still are constantly trying to figure out where is my place here, she remarks about her experience as a Latina immigrant in Gotham City. And I was fortunate that I got these design jobs immediately after I graduated. But it was still confusing because those small studioswhat we now call startupsstruggled hard back then. Television and media were being replaced by the internet very much. I mean, everyone was trying to figure everything out. You didnt know if your job would be there by summertime, she remembers her initial struggle to achieve job and professional stability in a competitive and ever-changing industry and city. It was very stressful, and coming from the Dominican Republic, I wasnt used to that. But it was a learning experience. As they say, you know, if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere, she says, laughing with her signature quick, wraparound smile that could disarm Iran, as Stephen Kaplan, the Rector of the Altos de Chavon School of Art and Design in the Dominican Republic, likes to remember her. And I must say that after all the work, living there, and trying and working so hard, you can throw me anywhere in the world, and I feel like I will not only survive, but I will thrive because I think the experience of New York makes you a survivor and a thriver.

Of these 25 years, the last eight have been particularly decisive for Marmolejo. She quit her day job and put all her cards on the table. Then, immediately after, came the pandemic But that wasnt particularly bad for her. It became a watershed. It is as if during the pandemic, while we were all attentive to the count of infections and deaths confined at home, the world had been reorganized. Also, the art world. During this time, several international galleries approached her with exciting proposals, allowing her to open up to other markets outside the Dominican Republic, where she has exhibited with Lyle OReitzel for over a decade.

Her efforts and talent have paid off surprisingly on the other side of the world, where she has worked consistently with the South Korean gallery Eligere since 2021. She had her first solo exhibition with the gallery, Anacaonas Revenge, on September 15, 2021, and her second one in the Asian country, Alter Egos, last March. Eligere has also showcased her work at the prestigious KIAF Plus in 2022 and KIAF Seoul on September 6, 2023.

With the interest in her work on the rise, this has impacted the secondary markets. In October 2022, her work I Always Come Back Here (2020) sold at Sothebys Hong Kong for HK$693,000 (US$88,576), a then-record price for the artist at auction. Less than six months later, that price has been beaten twice. Let the Hurricane In (2019) sold for HK$1.08 million (US$137,896)more than seven times its presale low price estimateat Poly Auctions later that month. In March, Phillips New York also sold Dreams of Escape (2021) for US$88,900, reported Veena McCoole in a market article featured on Artsy.net.

TANIA STUDIO-CONVERSATION-PAINTING

Youre happy that your art is noticed. And there are people interested. But at the same time, you are afraid of those who call themselves collectors but are trying to make money by buying and selling. Theyre going to jump at the chance, and suddenly, theyre going to sell all your work, and theres going to be too much of your work sold simultaneously. Thats a big fear because then theres too much of your work on the market. And so, its like a dance, this thing with the auctions, Marmolejo says. You may be excited when you hear that its sold for a good price, and then at the same time, suddenly youre scared as an artist because what does this mean? Does it mean that everyone will wants to sell your work and try to make money? she comments on her success at auctions.

The artist is not afraid of respectful legit collectors who hang onto the artwork for a few years, but the impact of another kind of buyer replacing volatile stock trading operations with art speculations. This desire to make a quick buck off an artist has changed how galleries sell work. Now there are three-year, five-year contracts, she explains the conditions to buy her work to avoid speculation in secondary markets. Some of them are trying to use art as a new form of currency. Unfortunately, this does not benefit the artist. So, the galleries are trying to balance things to protect the artist. Also, we start creating less work. It becomes harder to balance when there are a lot of so-called collectors who want to sell your work and make a quick buck. And unfortunately, that creates a fluctuation in the prices of the artist. And it scares us a lot.

Marmolejos work attracts attention not only in Asia and the U.S. but also in Spain and Scandinavia. In May 2023, she had her first solo show in Spain at Villazan Gallery in Madrid, with a body of work inspired by the artists connection to Spain. Gallery owner Pablo Villazan revealed that the show sold out in the first two days. They were aware of the significant worldwide interest in Marmolejos artwork. However, we can confirm that demand not only has considerably increased but that there is an extensive waiting list, Villazan disclosed to McCoole.

Since June 2022, Marmolejo has worked tirelessly on her large, elaborated canvases, starring women with intense gazes, showing her work in several collective shows, and conceiving and realizing eight personal exhibitions all around the world, from New Yorks GR Gallery to Nicodim LA, from Parisian Cohle to Volery Gallery in Dubai. The next exhibition in the pipeline is a solo show in May in Milan with Carl Kostyal, among other projects that are not cemented yet.

Last June, Marmolejo had a highly anticipated solo show in Stockholm at Loyal Gallery, perhaps her most personal exhibition yet. What Was Saved From the Fire exhibited 12 oil paintings dialoguing with her Swedish roots and integrating her maternal grandmother Elsas sketches and drawings in some of her works. The exhibition is also a breakthrough in her search for identity as an artist with Scandinavian and Caribbean roots, to which Marmolejo attributes her resilience. It makes you, in a sense, a chameleon. You can flow between cultures, and youll always be a bit of a novelty, which I dont consider bad. I never have fit into one box, and I never want to. That helps define who I am. And I have found that being mixed is also an identity in itself and that its a fun identity. You can do what you want, she adds, laughing.

1.LET-THE-HURRICANE-IN-oil-on-canvas-64-x-67-2020-1200x1169

People often like to shelter themselves within an identity and say, I belong here. And you hide within that group. Artists usually, although some like to work collectively, most of the time, artists are trying to find what sets them apart. What sets my art apart from others. So, its an interesting juxtaposition that even though you may have or feel you identify with a culture, you still are trying to figure out who you are in that culture, she points out.

Although she always hoped and prepared for this (not so-sudden) success, it also surprised her. I hoped with, you know, with my fingers crossed. I dont know if I expected as much as it has happened, but I knew that if I showed my work more internationally, it would catch on because I had never seen anything like it in the fairs I was a part of. So, I knew more people would be interested if I showed my work. I didnt realize that this amount of people would be interested. So, there is an element of surprise. But at the same time, I think it was like a hopeful expectation. You know, like you always have a little question mark. Expectation, dot, dot, dot, and a question mark. You always have to knock on wood to say, okay, I dont want to, you know, jinx it. But yes, if enough people saw it, I felt something larger would happen. But this this is a surprise.

Does she think we are living in a change of time where women play a more prominent role, have more opportunities, and receive at least a kind of symbolic restitution? Does this have something to do with her success after so many years of struggling and might be a trigger in the interest that his work has aroused? In many ways, hopefully, were entering almost like a new era, she replies. Theres much more attention given to women, their leadership qualities, and their ability to create outstanding and exciting projects that nobody doubts. But then were struggling so much in other aspects, even in the most liberal countries in the world; were getting our decisions and bodies regulated as if we cannot make up our minds on our own. And there are just more and more restrictions, which might be a pushback to the growing dominance of women. And then, at the same time, it should be a more fluid acceptance of both sexes, having women and men working together without discordance. It shouldnt be so jarring. It shouldnt be such an issue and then a symbolic restitution. I dont think were there yet anyway. I mean, specifically in art, were getting a lot more, but were still being questioned, I would say, less than before. And it feels good because Ive seen how it was not long ago. Its something that I can see with my own eyes, the change. I hope it continues. I hope it becomes normal. Art should be more inclusive for all genders, races, and cultures, she says. Grumpy white, old men shouldnt control it, she adds, followed by a mischievous laugh. Art should be the voice of humanity. And the more varied society becomes and the more we interact with each other, art should reflect that.

I Always Come Back Here (2020) sold at Sothebys Hong Kong for HK$693,000 (US$88,576), a then-record price for the artist at auction Tania Marmolejo
This Account has been suspended.
[September 14, 2023] Homebase Bets Big on Canadian Tech Talent, Doubling Employee Count Amid Strong and Sustained Business Growth Tweet

Leading hourly team management app invests in Canadian tech talent, doubling its local workforce (+104%) in the past year against a backdrop of volatility in the technology landscape.

Company adds Canadian leaders to its Executive Office, including Chief Marketing Officer, Candy Lee , and Chief Technology Officer, Oliver Fisher , who together bring strategic expertise from Shopify, HelloFresh Canada and FreshBooks.

, and Chief Technology Officer, , who together bring strategic expertise from Shopify, HelloFresh Canada and FreshBooks. Further strengthening product development capabilities, Homebase also welcomes VPs of Engineering Andrea Corey and Alamelu Radhakrishnan, bringing product development expertise from Freshbooks, Loblaw Digital and Shopify.

Homebase also opened its first-ever Canadian outpost this month, with an 8,000 sq. ft. office located in downtown Toronto . TORONTO, Sept. 14, 2023 /CNW/ -- Homebase , the all-in-one team management app that helps more than 100,000 local small businesses manage their hourly teams, makes big waves by investing in the Canadian technology industry. In the past year, the company has more than doubled its full-time workforce in Canada (+104%) and opened its first-ever office in downtown Toronto. Homebase has also supercharged its Executive Office with new, seasoned Canadian leadership, including Chief Marketing Officer, Candy Lee, and Chief Technology Officer, Oliver Fisher. Having hed previous leadership roles at Shopify, HelloFresh Canada and Freshbooks, both Lee and Fisher bring deep expertise and strategic insight into growing and scaling big brand SaaS companies that serve small businesses and consumers.



This investment is a strong signal of Homebase's commitment to growth against the backdrop of an otherwise volatile technology sector. Beyond the Canadian team, the company has also grown headcount in the past year in the U.S. and beyond. Toronto is the newest Homebase office, joining other locations in San Francisco, Houston and Denver. "With our new leadership, Homebase is set firmly on a path to scale our business to new heights, and supercharge our product to help small business teams work better than ever. Our people make Homebase what it is and our growing Canadian team is critical to unlocking our potential to provide an unbeatable experience for local businesses," said Homebase Founder & CEO, John Waldmann.

Prior to joining Homebase, at HelloFresh Lee helped scale the subscription business multiple times over, nearly doubling revenue in her first year while securing a hard-fought market leadership position ahead of long-time competitors. Lee is committed to helping accelerate the trajectory of Homebase to empower the +100k small businesses on the app to make work easier. "Main Street businesses have traditionally been ignored by technology providers, so I'm thrilled to work with the team to rewrite the script and put great tech in the hands of unstoppable local businesses," said Candy Lee, Homebase CMO. Furthermore, Fisher led international expansion efforts at Freshbooks and also helped grow Google's Safebrowsing team in Montreal. As Director of Engineering at Shopify, Fisher also helped launch Shopify Capital to provide seamless liquidity to merchants based on their existing sales, impressively growing the business rapidly in about one year. "I'm incredibly excited to shape a lasting company that's making an impact by driving small business growth," said Oliver Fisher, Homebase CTO. "I'm focused on building a world-class engineering team that will enable us to develop features that serve customers faster and more efficiently. Establishing engineering talent in Canada is a key part of that strategy," said Fisher. As growth and innovation remain core to Homebase's mission, the company also welcomes two additional expert leaders with deep product development experience. Andrea Corey, with more than two decades of experience designing systems to scale at startups, including Freshbooks and Eloqua joins as VP of Engineering, Platform Engineering. Additionally, Alamelu Radhakrishnan, former Chief of Staff to Shopify CTO, rounds out the new leadership as VP of Engineering, Product Delivery. About Homebase:

Great businesses are built on great teams. Great teams run on Homebase. Homebase makes work easier for 100,000+ small (but mighty) businesses with everything they need to build unstoppable hourly teams: employee scheduling, time clocks, payroll, team communication, hiring, onboarding, and compliance. Just don't call us "Human Capital Management." We're an all-in-one team management app built for busiest businesses, so owners and employees can spend less time on bullsh*t and more time on what matters.To learn more, visit joinhomebase.com. Media Contact:

Jonathan Motha-Pollock, Senior Manager, PR and Communications

[email protected] SOURCE Homebase

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] GoNetspeed Connects Service to Town of North Haven Delivering 100% Fiber Internet Tweet

GoNetspeed today announced that service has launched for residents and businesses throughout the Town of North Haven. With service now available to residents and businesses in initial construction areas, North Haven will experience future-proof, symmetrical upload and download internet speeds and voice service directly from their home or business, tapping into an internet connection that only fiber internet can provide. Once construction is complete, more than 4,300 locations throughout North Haven will have access to GoNetspeed's high-speed, reliable 100% fiber internet service through GoNetspeed's fully funded $4.2 million investment in the community. Residents and businesses interested may visit gonetspeed.com to confirm service availability for their location and to sign up for service installation. "North Haven can now tap into an infrastructure that will keep up with the daily demands of life online. We are seeing more often that internet is unable to integrate easily into our lives for work, school, streaming or gaming," said Tom Perrone, GoNetspeed Chief Operating Officer."With access to 100% fiber internet, North Haven will be equipped with another option that will spur growth and innovation. We are thrilled to officially provide North Haven with the service they deserve and look forward to growing with the needs of the community."



GoNetspeed is continuing to ensure that more communities throughout Connecticut have access to a high-speed 100% fiber internet infrastructure. Currently, more than 30 communities throughout the state have access to GoNetspeed's service along with many communities that are well on their way to having access to GoNetspeed's fiber internet. With a legacy of innovation and a commitment to customer service, GoNetspeed is excited to accelerate expansion of fiber networks throughout nine states, including Connecticut. GoNetspeed continues to deliver more fiber, more access, more speed, and better reliability to residents and businesses throughout our footprint. With access to 100% fiber internet, customers have access to symmetrical upload and download speeds, ranging from 500 Mbps to 1 Gbps (1,000 Mbps). Learn more about GoNetspeed at gonetspeed.com.

About GoNetspeed: GoNetspeed, a high-speed fiber internet provider serving residential and business customers in Maine, Alabama, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and West Virginia, formed a partnership with Oak Hill Capital ("Oak Hill") in January 2021, allowing GoNetspeed to accelerate the expansion of its fiber network throughout the Northeastern U.S. Adding thousands of new service areas every year, GoNetspeed is one of the largest independent internet providers in the east. For more information about GoNetspeed, or to inquire about service in your residence, business or community, visit gonetspeed.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914598485/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] goTenna secures $99M IDIQ contract to enhance connectivity and improve operational safety Tweet

BROOKLYN, N.Y., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- goTenna , the world's leading mobile mesh networking company, was awarded a 4-year, $99M IDIQ contract with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). A groundbreaking achievement for the business, this Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Phase III contract will provide U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) and the broader CBP enterprise with state-of-the-art mesh networking capabilities, including radios and fixed relays, software solutions, training, services, and partner accessories. This suite of technologies will support overall communications in austere environments by enabling the underpinning infrastructure that supports CBP's common operating picture. Incorporating agent data, sensor data, and interoperability among disparate organizations will help operator efficiency and safety under the USBP Seamless Integrated Communications Program (SIC), Agent Visualization Program (AVP), and the Team Awareness Kit (TAK) Program. The first task order awarded with the IDIQ, for $5.5M, will focus on delivering goTenna's newest capabilities to the USBP, including fixed relay products, mission-enhancing software capabilities, advanced radio development, and ATOS tags from goTenna's partner, Tough Stump Technologies. As USBP continues to invest in the TAK ecosystem to drive more integrated information technology, hardware, and accessories, this contract enables a safer and more effective workforce across the CBP enterprise, which includes USBP, Office of Field Operations (OFO), and Air and Marine Operations (MO), in addition to Federal, State, Local, Tribal and Territorial partners.



"USBP, CBP, and their partner agencies operate in some of the nation's most austere and dangerous areas. We recognize the need for off-grid capabilities to drive safer interactions for CBP personnel and those they interact with during daily operations," said goTenna CEO Ari Schuler. "We are committed to providing the underlying technology to enhance the safety and protect the lives of these agents and will continue to develop and deploy goTenna capabilities that meet the ever-changing mission needs throughout the duration of this contract." This award follows goTenna's other work supporting CBP and USBP, which includes a $22.3M contract to provide end-to-end off-grid connectivity and goTenna's recent maritime mobile mesh networking demonstrations.

Over the past year, goTenna has demonstrated how the goTenna Pro X Series of mesh radios can support safer operations in various environments. In a March CBP demonstration, goTenna provided unprecedented situational awareness during container ship tests. Small teams could maintain TAK chat connectivity and position location information in an otherwise cellular and voice-denied environment, connecting the engine room to the bridge of a cargo vessel. This field test demonstrated that goTenna is a viable situational awareness and communications platform for officers who board container vessels to conduct operations. In a second CBP demonstration that month, goTenna demonstrated ship-to-shore connectivity 17 miles off the coast of Florida, providing situational awareness and mesh communications for the entirety of the maritime border enforcement zone. These field tests emulated real-world challenges faced by CBP in maritime, aerial, and urban environments and continue to show the value of TAK and a common operating picture to support operations. goTenna's new relay and software products are available to select partners. Contact [email protected] to see if your organization is eligible for participation in the prototype program. For a general capabilities brief on goTenna's ecosystem of products, email [email protected] for a mission briefing. About goTenna

goTenna believes that preparedness leads to better outcomes  a multi-layered service straight out of the box with network setup, training, and execution. We are advancing universal access to connectivity by building the world's most intelligent and scalable mobile mesh networks. goTenna is the world's leading mobile mesh networking company, providing off-grid connectivity solutions for smartphones and other devices and augmenting traditional communications networks. This technology enables mobile, long-range connectivity without cellular service, Wi-Fi, or satellite connectivity. goTenna's drive to create resilient connectivity began during Hurricane Sandy in 2012 when approximately a third of cell towers and power stations in affected areas failed. Based in Brooklyn, New York, goTenna is a proud partner of the United States military, first responders, and law enforcement, among others, and is backed by investors, including Founders Fund, Union Square Ventures, Comcast Ventures, Collaborative Fund, and Bloomberg Beta. Company Press Contact:

Natalia Sorto

Associate Director, Content and Digital Marketing

press@gotenna.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gotenna-secures-99m-idiq-contract-to-enhance-connectivity-and-improve-operational-safety-301927209.html SOURCE goTenna

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 13, 2023] Multiplier Named No. 1 Most Implementable Employer of Record and Leader in G2's Fall Report Tweet

Multiplier has won a record number of accolades including being named #1 in the Implementation Index among 44 players in the EOR category ahead of many more other enterprises. With this, Multiplier achieves the highest customer satisfaction score out of all contenders in the same category. LONDON and SINGAPORE, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Multiplier, a leading global workforce management platform, today announces that it has been named a Leader in G2's Fall 2023 Report in the Employer of Record category. The honour comes hand-in-hand with an achievement of being ranked #1 in the Implementation Index in EoR ahead of 44 players. In addition to this remarkable feat, Multiplier has earned a staggering 56 badges in total, af?rming its unwavering dedication to excellence in global workforce management, payroll and global expansion support. The business landscape is rapidly evolving, with companies of all sizes and industries increasingly seeking ef?cient and cost-effective solutions for international expansion. The recognition as the Leader in G2's Fall 2023 Report for Employer of Record re?ects Multiplier's pivotal role in addressing these evolving needs. As international markets become more accessible, businesses are faced with intricate legal and administrative challenges. This is where Multiplier steps in, simplifying complex processes, ensuring compliance with local labor laws, and facilitating seamless cross-border operations. By leveraging Multiplier's comprehensive suite of workforce management tools, companies can save signi?cant time and resources, allowing them to focus on their core mission. " Multiplier delivers excellent EoR services , ensuring legal compliance in countries where we have employees, reducing the risks associated with global expansion. Secondly, Multiplier accelerates the onboarding process for new hires, enabling us to quickly and ef?ciently integrate talent from different locations." - 5/5 stars, Veri?ed User in Computer Software



Recent data indicates a surge in businesses adopting Employer of Record services. The savings in time and money are substantial, with an average of 50% reduction in the time required to onboard international talent and a 30% decrease in compliance-related costs. These ?gures underscore the transformative impact of Employer of Record systems on modern businesses, making Multiplier's top-ranking status all the more meaningful. Commenting on this signi?cant achievement, Multiplier's CEO and co-founder, Sagar Khatri said: "We are immensely proud of this remarkable achievement. Multiplier's unwavering commitment to simplifying global workforce management has propelled us to the forefront of the Employer of Record industry. This recognition in G2's Fall 2023 Report re?ects our pivotal role in addressing the evolving needs of businesses worldwide.

We owe this achievement to our clients and partners, whose trust and support have fueled our journey. As we continue to innovate and rede?ne workforce management, Multiplier remains a beacon of excellence in the Employer of Record industry." Multiplier's top position in the G2 Fall 2023 Report is not just a testament to its prowess but also a celebration of the positive impact it brings to businesses worldwide. As Multiplier continues to innovate and rede?ne workforce management, it remains a beacon of excellence in the Employer of Record industry. Aside from being recognised as a Leader in Employer of Record, Multiplier has also been named the highest ranking in the following areas Payroll Momentum Leader

Multi-country Payroll Momentum Leader

Multi-country Payroll Fastest Implementation [Mid-market]

Multi-country Payroll Best Relationship [Small business]

Multi-country Payroll Best Estimated ROI [Mid-market]

Most Implementable Payroll [Overall and Mid-market]

Employer of Record Best Relationship

Leader in the EOR Category - Grid Report

Best Relationship Index in Small Businesses - Report

High Performer in the Mid market segment for Multi-country Payroll G2 rates products and sellers based on reviews gathered from Multiplier's user community, as well as data aggregated from online sources and social networks. G2 applies a unique, patent-pending algorithm to this data to calculate the product's Implementation score. The Implementation Index for Employer of Record (EOR) | Fall 2023 report is based on scores calculated using the G2 implementation algorithm from data collected through August 15, 2023. Some of the reviews about Multiplier include: "Happily using Multiplier as my employer of record. Customer service is great. All salary payments are made on time, usually 1 or 2 days in advance. The interface is intuitive and easy to use" - 5/5 stars, Veri?ed User in Computer Software "Best EOR Service Provider. They [Multiplier] offer a seamless onboarding process which is completely online. We appreciate the use of technology to create a much needed product, as well as offering the cheapest price too" - 5/5 stars, Head of Finance Computer Games Released each quarter, G2's Grid Reports honour the world's leading software products across hundreds of categories. G2 recognition is based on customer satisfaction scores, derived directly from user reviews, and market presence, which includes consideration for seller size and social impact. For media inquiries, please contact: Emily Dunlop, Brand & Communications Director of Multiplier at [email protected] . View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/multiplier-named-no-1-most-implementable-employer-of-record-and-leader-in-g2s-fall-report-301925944.html SOURCE Multiplier

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 13, 2023] Singapore's Activate Interactive Named Among Asia's Most Promising SMEs at ACES 2023 Tweet

SINGAPORE, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading technology consultancy in Singapore, Activate Interactive Pte Ltd ("Activate") has been honoured as one of Asia's Most Promising SMEs at the prestigious Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability ("ACES") Awards 2023, which is organised by MORS Group. Renowned for its reliability and trusted partnership with Singapore's government agencies, Activate continues to excel in the technology sector. The accolade recognises aspiring small and medium enterprises ("SMEs") in Asia that express clear business direction with strong nitiatives in driving growth, have overcome significant hurdles with uncompromising ethics and hold immense potential for future growth and job creation.



Joel Chin, Chief Executive Officer of Activate, said, "Being acknowledged as one of Asia's Most Promising SMEs at ACES 2023 is an immense honour. This recognition underscores our team's dedication and drive to provide cutting-edge technology solutions. Collaborating with Singapore's government agencies has been instrumental in fuelling our own growth and the nation's development. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our exceptional team  this award further energises us for the ongoing growth journey." Activate's reputation for reliability, technical expertise, and client-centric approach has propelled it forward. The company offers solutions in digital transformation, mobile and web development, artificial intelligence, and interactive experiences, solidifying its role as a trusted partner both locally and internationally.

This accolade serves as a testament to Activate's journey and ongoing commitment to making a positive impact in the technology sector. About Activate Interactive Pte Ltd Founded in 1997, Activate Interactive Pte Ltd is a leading technology consultant in Singapore that fuses strategy consulting, creativity, and engineering to drive digital innovations. We offer quality, cost-effective and impactful end-to-end application development, including mobile and web applications, cloud technology, UI/UX design and more. We integrate digital technology into all business areas, helping clients remove technology roadblocks and increase their efficiency to better serve and deliver value to their communities, regardless of their business size and type. We aspire to help people live better and healthier with technology by providing holistic solutions to improve population health. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/singapores-activate-interactive-named-among-asias-most-promising-smes-at-aces-2023-301923018.html SOURCE MORS Group

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
Protest signs are posted outside the former Saint John Villa Academy being repurposed as a shelter for homeless migrants, Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, in the Staten Island borough of New York.

A New Yorker upset that the city has been housing homeless migrants on his block has set up a loudspeaker to deliver an unwelcoming message to his new neighbors: The community doesnt want them. Immigrants are not safe here.

The message, recorded in six languages, blares all day from a loudspeaker on Scott Herkerts well-groomed front lawn on Staten Island, exhorting migrants to go back to another part of the city. It urges people brought to a temporary shelter inside a long-vacant Roman Catholic high school not to get off the bus. The message also claims the building has rats and cockroaches.

It is one of several ways some people have let shelter residents know they are not welcome. Hundreds of protesters have also held a large rally outside the former school, urging the city to house migrants elsewhere.

The women and families placed by the city inside the former Saint John Villa Academy have heard the message loud and clear.

We have to close our eyes and close our ears, said Aminetou El Alewai, a 39-year-old woman from Mauritania who moved into the shelter last week. We are good people. We are not criminals. We came because of problems in our country.

As thousands of migrants continue to arrive in New York City, officials have scrambled to open new emergency shelters, turning to tent facilities, school gyms and parks to comply with a state law requiring housing for the homeless. Though Staten Island is home to only a small fraction of those shelters, they have generated an outsize share of animosity.

The hostile reception coincides with increasingly dire rhetoric from Mayor Eric Adams, who warned last week that the migrant crisis would destroy New York City. The Democrat has insisted that the more than 100,000 who have arrived so far are welcome, but he has said the cost of housing tens of thousands of people could be as much as $12 billion over the next three years. Adams has rejected allegations from advocates of using migrants as props in an ongoing bid for federal money.

Staten Island is known for leaning conservative and Republican in a mostly liberal, Democratic city.

Herkert, a New York state court system employee, also has a tarp on his lawn painted with a profane version of the phrase, No way! Gesturing at the largely empty street in front of his home Tuesday, Herkert said the new shelter has upended his blocks quiet charm and brought toilets and dumpsters to the other side of his fence.

While the loudspeaker message  in Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Urdu, Chinese and English  warns that the former school is infested with roaches and mold, Alewai said she has found it to be perfectly clean, if a bit uncomfortable.

As Alewai spoke to Associated Press reporters on a sidewalk, parents picked up their children from a neighboring private school, directing nervous glances and, in one case, harsh words at the new arrivals.

I am sorry for the trouble of the woman who was just talking, Alewai said in French. I came as a refugee to New York and they brought me here. Indeed, I am not comfortable here.

Both employees and residents of the shelter said protesters have cursed at and threatened them, frequently playing loud music late into the night. Employee and lifelong Queens native Gabrielle Dasilva said she was recently told to go back to her home country.

A spokesperson for the mayors office, Kayla Mamelak, said the administration was disturbed to learn about the false messages being played outside the St. Johns Villa Academy respite site and police are working to maintain the peace in the area.

As always, New York City continues to provide care for asylum seekers with compassion and care, she said.

City Councilman David Carr, a Republican who attended Saint John Villa Academy, defended the audio recording as protected First Amendment activity and said his constituents have good reason to worry about the high cost of housing migrants.

This is an opportunity for folks in the neighborhood who are angry to demonstrate that constructively, Carr said. Theyre just trying to ensure that their voices are heard.

John Tabacco, a right-wing media personality and candidate for city comptroller, said he collaborated on the effort with Herkert and the loudspeakers messages have clearly resonated with neighbors.

There have been a lot of concerned citizens out there, and theyve been spending a lot of time doing some good old fashioned civil disobedience, he said.

Around the corner, John Gurriera, a 72-year-old resident of Staten Island, said he was disappointed by the reaction from some of his neighbors, which he described as not very Christian.

This is New York City, he added. We all came from someplace else.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
[September 13, 2023] Philippine Financial Market Infrastructure PDS Group partners with STACS's ESGpedia on the SFIA ASEAN Single AccessPoint for ESG Data (SAFE) Initiative on ESG Data Disclosure Tweet

The partnership is part of the SAFE initiative, led by the Sustainable Finance Institute Asia (SFIA), and aims to support corporate sustainability and simplify ESG data reporting for businesses and issuers in the Philippines SFIA has identified STACS's ESGpedia as a potential technology platform partner for the Single AccessPoint for ESG Data (SAFE) Initiative, which aims to address ESG data and disclosure gaps in ASEAN markets.

As the largest ESG data registry in Asia with use cases across various sectors, ESGpedia provides over 5 million sustainability data points and enables companies to disclose ESG data in a guided and simplified manner, with incentive programs in place.

with use cases across various sectors, ESGpedia provides over 5 million sustainability data points and enables companies to disclose ESG data in a guided and simplified manner, with incentive programs in place. PDS Group is promoting ESGpedia to be used by Philippine corporations in order to facilitate likely to be required disclosures and attain greater insights into their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

The partnership by the PDS Group with STACS and the introduction of ESGpedia in the Philippines follows the successful launch of ESGpedia and SAFE Initiative in Vietnam with Bamboo Capital Group in August. MANILA, Philippines and SINGAPORE, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Philippine Dealing System Holdings Corp. (PDS Group) announced its partnership with Asia's leading Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) data and technology solutions company, STACS, to utilize STACS's ESGpedia platform to support corporate sustainability and ESG reporting for businesses and issuers in the Philippines. This is part of the Sustainable Finance Institute Asia (SFIA) pilot initiative to address ESG data and disclosure gaps in ASEAN markets. As the largest ESG data registry in Asia with use cases across various sectors, ESGpedia has been selected as one of the technology platform partners for the SFIA Single AccessPoint for ESG Data (SAFE) Initiative Pilot, which aims to bring together and empower key industry participants across ASEAN through credible, comprehensive, and consistent ESG data reporting. Through the partnership, PDS Group is promoting ESGpedia for use, initially by its community of listed issuers, and then for all other Philippine companies, to facilitate their ESG data reporting journey expected to become a set of regular corporate disclosres. ESGpedia provides a digital platform which simplifies various ESG standards and frameworks, providing an easy and guided sustainability journey. It also includes digital tools to automatically convert operational data like fuel, refrigerant, and electricity consumption to GHG emissions under the standard GHG Protocol, localized to the Philippines, allowing companies to gain insights of their carbon footprint.



ESGpedia has also partnered with the ESCAP Sustainable Business Network (ESBN) Asia-Pacific Green Deal Program. Through this, participants will also be eligible to achieve a Green, Silver or Gold Green Deal Badge upon completion of their company ESG profile on ESGpedia. This profile would include data submitted through disclosures and enhanced by aggregated data from public sources. This serves as an incentive program to allow awardees to showcase to customers, investors, and financers their commitment to sustainability. The cross-border partnership was unveiled in Manila on 11 September 2023, with the attendance of companies in the country (corporations and financial institutions), the United Nations Global Compact Philippines, the Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas, and the Securities and Exchange Committee. This follows the successful launch of ESGpedia in Vietnam with Bamboo Capital Group (also part of the SFIA SAFE Initiative), earlier in August.

Antonino Nakpil, PDEx President and CEO, said: "The first step to corporate sustainability is awareness and an understanding of the company's own ESG standing. To this end we are delighted to support the Sustainable Finance Institute Asia (SFIA) Single Accesspoint for ESG Data (SAFE) Initiative. Powered by our partner STACS's ESGpedia, SAFE will facilitate Philippine businesses' access to credible, consistent, and comprehensive ESG data, generation of insights into their GHG emissions, and streamline their corporate sustainability and ESG reporting. As the recipient of the corporate disclosures of its community of Issuers, the PDS Group is well positioned as a nexus for the new reporting regimes for corporate ESG data. By promoting this digital portal for this information, the Group looks to help empower its community, and spreading to a wider range of Philippine corporations achieve the national goals as well as the ASEAN goals toward Net Zero emissions." Benjamin Soh, STACS Managing Director, said: "Countries across Asia are transiting towards mandatory ESG disclosures. To facilitate likely to be required disclosures for businesses in the Philippines, we are delighted that ESGpedia is partnering with PDS Group as part of the ASEAN Single Accesspoint for ESG Data (SAFE) initiative, to promote ESGpedia for use by its community of listed issuers and all other Philippine companies. These companies will benefit from a free and guided program on ESGpedia to kickstart their ESG data reporting and decarbonisation journey. Through a community-centric approach, we look forward to shaping the future of the ESG data landscape and empowering ASEAN nations in their mandatory ESG reporting and sustainability journey." Covering over 5 million sustainability data points, ESGpedia empowers financial institutions and companies to achieve strategic sustainability goals, by providing harmonized and standardized asset-level ESG data, and solutions to enable sustainable finance and suppliers sustainability monitoring. Through AI-powered aggregation and harmonization, ESGpedia combines public ESG data with primary disclosure data, collected directly through the platform. ESGpedia is live across Asia, powering the Monetary Authority of Singapore's (MAS) Greenprint ESG Registry and the ESCAP Sustainable Business Network (ESBN) Asia-Pacific Green Deal digital assessment. About PDS Group The Philippine Dealing System Holdings Corp. ("PDS Group") is a private corporation that has been providing national financial market infrastructure services since 1995. The Group's services abide by international standards and are designed to meet the needs of market stakeholders and are provided by the Group's two key subsidiaries. The Philippine Depository & Trust Corp. (PDTC) is the sole SEC-licensed Central Securities Depository (CSD) for Fixed Income (FI) and Equity (EQ) markets that provides Registry services for these asset classes. PDTC is also regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) which granted it quasi-bank and trust licenses. The Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. (PDEx) is an SEC-licensed operator of the Fixed Income Market and utilizes its empowerment as an exchange, an over-the-counter market, a Self-Regulatory Organization, and its clearing authorization to oversee the range of market activities covering trading, clearing and settlement, through to surveillance and rule enforcement. About STACS STACS (Hashstacs Pte Ltd) is Asia's leading ESG data and technology company, headquartered in Singapore. Its ESGpedia platform powers the Monetary Authority of Singapore's (MAS) Greenprint ESG Registry, ASEAN Single Accesspoint for ESG Data (SAFE) pilot initiative, and ESCAP Sustainable Business Network (ESBN) Asia-Pacific Green Deal digital assessment. ESGpedia serves as the Nexus of ESG Finance with ESG data across multiple industries, as well as digital solutions for the financial sector to scale decarbonisation financing, and corporates and SMEs to attain their ESG goals. Empowering industries across Asia towards Net Zero, its clients and partners include global financial institutions, corporates, and SMEs. For more information, please visit www.stacs.io. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/philippine-financial-market-infrastructure-pds-group-partners-with-stacss-esgpedia-on-the-sfia-asean-single-accesspoint-for-esg-data-safe-initiative-on-esg-data-disclosure-301926785.html SOURCE STACS

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 13, 2023] CGTN: China, Venezuela usher in a new era of bilateral relations Tweet

BEIJING, Sept. 13, 2023 /CNW/ -- "[We are] ready for what will be a historic visit for the strengthening of cooperation ties and the construction of a new world geopolitics," Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro wrote on social media last Friday when he landed in southern Chinese city of Shenzhen, the first stop in his trip to China between September 8 to 14. In Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday welcomed President Maduro's fifth visit to China and called on the two sides to push for more fruitful China-Venezuela strategic cooperation, bring more benefits to the two peoples and inject more positive energy into world peace and development. Both leaders on Wednesday announced the elevation of the China-Venezuela relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership, ahead of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations next year. Good friends, partners During the meeting, Xi emphasized that China and Venezuela are good friends who trust each other and good partners for common development. He told Maduro that China views relations with Venezuela from a long-term strategic perspective and, as always, will support Caracas in protecting national sovereignty and countering external interference. China and Venezuela signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for cooperation on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on September 14, 2018 with bilateral cooperation running smoothly in areas such as energy, agriculture, infrastructure and high technology. China is the main tade partner of Venezuela. In the first half of the year, bilateral trade rose 16 percent year-on-year to $1.92 billion, customs data showed.



In July, Venezuela officially joined the China-led International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). President Xi on Wednesday also congratulated Venezuela for becoming the first country in Latin America to join the project. After their talks, the two leaders also witnessed the signing of a number of bilateral cooperation documents covering the areas of joint construction of the BRI, economy and trade, education, tourism, science and technology, health, aerospace and civil aviation.

Setting an example for South-South cooperation When asked about the reason for choosing Shenzhen as the first stop of his trip, Maduro earlier told reporters that his country is keen to draw on the development experience of Shenzhen, one of China's first special economic zones which was at the forefront of China's reform and opening-up policy. During his meeting with Maduro, President Xi spoke about China's reform and opening up, especially the development of special economic zones. He said China supports Venezuela in setting up special economic zones and will share relevant experience to help its national development. China stands ready to work with Venezuela to firmly support each other in exploring a development path suited to their national conditions and strengthen Party and national governance exchanges, Xi stressed. Maduro hailed Venezuela-China relationship an exemplary of international relations in the Global South. The people of Venezuela express their heartfelt gratitude to China for its invaluable support and assistance at a time when Venezuela was suffering from the multiple difficulties posed by the illegal unilateral sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic, he added. As a member of Global South, China firmly supports South-South cooperation and insists on doing its best to help other developing countries achieve common development. The Global Development Initiative (GDI), proposed by President Xi, now includes over 200 cooperation projects. The Chinese president also just announced to set up a special $10 billion fund dedicated to the implementation of the GDI at the BRICS summit in August. Moreover, China has created the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund with a total funding of $4 billion. https://news.cgtn.com/news/2023-09-13/Xi-holds-talks-with-Venezuelan-president-1n4ajf4mqli/index.html View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cgtn-china-venezuela-usher-in-a-new-era-of-bilateral-relations-301927247.html SOURCE CGTN

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] AI-Driven Grid Resilience firm, Prisma Photonics secures approximately $20 Million, led by Insight Partners, to monitor large-scale critical infrastructure towards net zero emissions Tweet

Tel Aviv-based electric grid technology firm poised to focus growth on US market with hires and Austin-based offices. TEL AVIV, Israel, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Prisma Photonics, the dynamic, AI-driven startup that monitors large-scale infrastructure, such as power grids, announced today that it raised approximately $20M in a Series C round led by New York-based global private equity and venture capital firm Insight Partners, with participation from Elements, a Climatech fund, SE Ventures (Schneider Electric's venture capital arm), Future Energy Ventures (the venture capital investment and collaboration platform of E.ON), Chione Switzerland, and INcapital. The investment will accelerate the company's break into the global power and renewable energy market while supporting its continued growth. This round brings the total funding raised by Prisma Photonics to over $50 million. The company's earlier investors include Israel Electric Corporation, Israel Natural Gas Lines, and i3 Equity Partners. Prisma Photonics optical fiber sensing technology offers power transmission operators better ways to manage their grids. It allows them to maximize the electrical capacity of the current grid to increase the integration of renewable energy sources. Doing that, operators respond to new emerging regulations such as FERC order 881 in the U.S. and similar. Real-time alerts on electrical faults and extreme weather conditions such as wildfires and icing offer better ways to retain grid resiliency in changing environments. Prisma Photonics' solutions monitor infrastructure using the existing optical fibers covering great distances, of up to thousands of kilometers, without the need to install any sensors on the infrastructure itself. Events and alerts are reported in real time and within meters of accuracy. "Grid congestion and te integration of renewable sources have become pressing challenges for power market operators such as our Tier-1 customers," states Dr. Eran Inbar, CEO of Prisma Photonics. "Our AI-driven technology not only adds a layer of resilience to the grid but also enables dynamic line rating capabilities, unlocking the full potential of existing infrastructure. This investment led by Insight Partners highlights the urgent need for innovative, scalable solutions in critical infrastructure management."



"In a rapidly accelerating power and energy sector, we see both the market necessity and vast potential for Prisma Photonics' solutions. Their unique blend of AI and engineering expertise addresses some of the most urgent challenges facing power operators today and their AI application can help solve consequential problems in infrastructure," said Ganesh Bell, Managing Director at Insight Partners. "It's a high-growth space, and doubling down on our investment in Prisma Photonics is not just strategic but imperative. We're thrilled to back Eran and his team as they redefine the future of energy infrastructure management." "In a world grappling with climate imperatives, Elements fund aims to back those at the cutting edge of the energy and climate technologies.", says Nitsan Alon, Managing Partner at Elements Venture Capital. "Our investment in Prisma Photonics is more than financial. It's a testament to our belief in their capability to impact the industry significantly, and we are proud to have them as our first major investment."

Prisma Photonics optical fiber sensing technology covers several infrastructure sectors, including power, oil and gas pipelines, subsea infrastructure, railways, highways, and other long-range utilities. It allows operators to increase infrastructure operations' safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness while actively supporting utility operators in achieving their net-zero goals. About Prisma Photonics Prisma Photonics revolutionizes infrastructure monitoring by using optical fibers to monitor critical large-scale infrastructure like power grids and oil & gas pipelines for thousands of kilometers, eliminating the need for sensors. Combining Hyper-Scan Fiber-Sensing technology with machine learning allows utility operators to reach environmental and renewable energy goals while keeping operational excellence in their journey to net-zero emissions. Founded in 2017 by an expert team with a proven track record of building and scaling companies in the deep-tech domain About Insight Partners Insight Partners is a global software investor partnering with high-growth technology, software, and Internet startup and ScaleUp companies that are driving transformative change in their industries. As of December 31, 2022, the firm has over $75B in regulatory assets under management. Insight Partners has invested in more than 750 companies worldwide and has seen over 55 portfolio companies achieve an IPO. Headquartered in New York City, Insight has offices in London, Tel Aviv, and Palo Alto. Insight's mission is to find, fund, and work successfully with visionary executives, providing them with right-sized, right-time practical, hands-on software expertise along their growth journey, from their first investment to IPO. For more information on Insight and all its investments, visit insightpartners.com or follow us on X @insightpartners. About Elements Fund Elements is a leading Venture Capital fund, with a primary focus on startups that are driving ground-breaking solutions to combat climate change. Our mission is to support and nurture companies at the forefront of climate technology, particularly in the energy sector. Through our own network we hope to assist portfolio companies in scaling globally. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1742669/Prisma_Photonics_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ai-driven-grid-resilience-firm-prisma-photonics-secures-approximately-20-million-led-by-insight-partners-to-monitor-large-scale-critical-infrastructure-towards-net-zero-emissions-301926352.html

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] Social Empowerment Award Presented to Apex Circuit (Thailand) Co., Ltd. at the Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards 2023 Tweet

SINGAPORE, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA) 2023 is pleased to honor 30 outstanding business leaders and enterprises for championing sustainable and responsible business practices. Presented by leading regional NGO Enterprise Asia, the AREA is the most reputable award recognition program recognizing organizational efforts in creating a culture of compassion, integrity, and in being socially responsible corporate citizens. The AREA serves as a badge of excellence to spur further innovation and best-practice sharing for organizations and the world at large. The awards event is also preceded by the International CSR & Sustainability (ICS) Summit 2023 which was themed "Sustainability as the Great Equalizer". Apex Circuit (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (Apex), the subsidiary of Apex International Co., Ltd (TWSE:4927) was among the recipients who were conferred with the Social Empowerment Award. As a professional manufacturer of printed circuit boards (PCB). Apex has been focused on single-to-12-layer rigid production since the year 2001. The company is ranked as a major high-revenue rigid PCB manufacturer in Thailand, and its products are being sold internationally to Japanese, Korean, European, and USA customers. Apex chose to carry out public welfare construction in the village of Uttaradit in northern Thailand, assisting the local village to install solar panels and improve the water supply system. This project brings the concepts of clean energy and sustainability to rural areas and takes root in local communities to establish a win-win relationship with society. Apex has worked on many initiatives including cooperating with the local government to disseminate the policy of reducing straw burning and also introducing the solar-powered system to vocatonal school students.



The company executed this initiative under the concept of "Young Generation Returns Home" by using the domiciles of successful and long-term Apex employees to develop the project. 90% of these employees have their domiciles in upcountry provinces. For this project, the Apex team developed a complete plan to supply power for the pumping equipment. The company built a 5kW solar-powered module to supply a portion of electricity for the water supply system. Besides that, the water cistern was expanded, the pipeline was renewed, and the filter was cleaned out. These improvements extended the lifespan of the original water supply system and saved on electricity expenses for the residents.

After the system was launched, the survey metrics showed that the solar-powered system reduced about 30% of the consumption of non-renewable energy every month, as the plan had proposed. The project's influence led to a total of 121 households signing a memorandum that they would use renewable energy and promise to avoid straw and agricultural waste burning to reduce CO2 emissions, the impacted area is estimated to be around 1,880,000 square meters. The local government also provides straw balers to assist residents in dealing with the straw to reduce the harmful impact on the environment. Thanks to Apex's efforts, the use of sustainable energy has entered the lives of residents, and a green mindset has been implanted in the hearts of many students. Adding to this is the government's endorsement of improving waste disposal methods and promoting the concept of sustainable development of the environment in more regions. Apex also intends to assist in the implementation of sustainability catered to local conditions, so that environmental friendship is not just a concept but also enters becomes a way of life. About Enterprise Asia Enterprise Asia is a non-governmental organization in pursuit of creating an Asia that is rich in entrepreneurship as an engine toward sustainable and progressive economic and social development within a world of economic equality. Its two pillars of existence are investment in people and responsible entrepreneurship. Enterprise Asia works with governments, NGOs and other organizations to promote competitiveness and entrepreneurial development, in uplifting the economic status of people across Asia and in ensuring a legacy of hope, innovation and courage for the future generation. Please visit https://www.enterpriseasia.org/ for more information. About Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA) The Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards program recognizes and honors Asian businesses for championing sustainable and responsible entrepreneurship in the categories of Green Leadership, Investment in People, Health Promotion, Social Empowerment, Corporate Governance, Circular Economy Leadership, Corporate Sustainability Reporting, and Responsible Business Leadership. For more information, visit: https://enterpriseasia.org/area/. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/social-empowerment-award-presented-to-apex-circuit-thailand-co-ltd-at-the-asia-responsible-enterprise-awards-2023-301927522.html SOURCE Enterprise Asia

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] Chatbot Summit Arrives at ExCeL London on Oct 11-12, Accelerating Conversational and Generative AI Tweet

LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /CNW/ -- Chatbot Summit , the world's leading Conversational AI Conference & Expo Series, is making its way to the UK for the first time, after previously bringing together an ecosystem of over 10,000 leaders at industry-defining events, held in Tel Aviv, Berlin and Tokyo. This year's agenda spotlights industry shifts and burning questions. Yoav Barel, Managing Director at Sunrize and Chairman of Chatbot Summit, notes, "We have many questions to tackle: How to provide natural language experiences to customers and employees? Can LLMs be mastered? Building trust with AI solutions? Industry leaders and experts will address these during the event". Delegates will hear from a world-class lineup of speakers at Chatbot Summit as they try to bring clarity on those topics. Seakers include leaders at UK household brands, such as British Telecom, Mercedes-Benz, UBS and Miele, and experts from top tech companies such as AWS, Google, Microsoft, Meta and Rasa. Amongst the highlighted speakers are:



Chief Digital Officer, Consumer - Digital at BT Group

Chief Intelligence Officer at McCann Worldgroup .

Head of Speech Technology #HeyMercedes

Co-founder & CTO at Rasa This year's Chatbot Summit spans two dynamic days. The first offers exclusive workshops led by industry experts. The second combines an expo and conference, featuring networking, 1:1 meetings, product showcases and a startup competition. The grand finale: the legendary 'Bots After Dark' party, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Barel concludes: "Since our foundation, we've eagerly anticipated this moment. With the rise of Generative AI and LLMs, the inevitability of conversing with AI-powered bots for business is clear. However, many brands and UK organizations haven't embraced this tech yet. Chatbot Summit aims to foster collaboration to bridge this gap and accelerate Conversational & Generative AI adoption. Our speakers, partners, startups, and delegates play a vital role in this mission, together for the better".

Join us at one of the most exciting tech events of the year: Chatbot Summit at ICC ExCeL London. Don't miss out, get your pass today at www.chatbotsummit.com ! About Sunrize

Since 2016, Sunrize has driven the growth of natural language AI experiences through Chatbot Summit. Our event fuels collaboration and innovation among industry leaders, academia, tech giants, and startups. https://www.chatbotsummit.com/ Media Contact

Mila Chipchev

[email protected] Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210752/Chatbot_Summit.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chatbot-summit-arrives-at-excel-london-on-oct-11-12-accelerating-conversational-and-generative-ai-301927540.html SOURCE Chatbot Summit

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] Best of Both Worlds: Combining Skill Development with Employee Engagement for Sustainable Livelihoods of Beautypreneurs Tweet

Sambhav Foundation launches an innovative initiative to empower women from vulnerable communities, by engaging corporate employees, with a beauty service experience, in collaboration with Kantar India Foundation NEW DELHI, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sambhav Foundation, in association with Kantar India Foundation  the CSR arm of Kantar, has been committed to empowering livelihoods via skill development for vulnerable communities. Sambhav Foundation, a not-for-profit building sustainable livelihoods for the underprivileged, has launched its 'on-the-go' Beauty Service Experience for the employees of Kantar, the world's leading marketing data and analytics company, at their office premises in Gurugram. Sambhav, under its CSR innovations, picks workers from its own skilled ecosystem and connects them with wage opportunities to enable financial independence and empowerment, by providing professional beauty services for women in the workplace. The services will be provided by these women beneficiaries trained under the skill development program. Kantar, being one of the drivers of women employees' welfare, comes forward to facilitate beauty services for its own women employees along with Sambhav. Endorsing this 'Women for Women' initiative, Kantar employees are the first to avail services from the 'on-the-go' Beauty Service program, which also aligns with Kantar India Foundation's objective 'Equipping Women for Life'. "The primary objective behind the 'on-the-go' concept is to ensure these skilled beauticians are given access to business opportunities. While skilling might empower communities to earn an income, access to market linkages and handholding them till they stabilize their business is important for sustained income growth. That is what the 'on-the-go' experience aims to deliver  connect skills to entrepreneurial opportunities," said Dr. Gayathri Vasudevan, Chairperson, Sambhav Foundation. "Kantar India Foundation is committed to driving positive change beyond business. Our partnership with Sambhav Foundation is a reflection of our social commitment towards 'Equipping Women for Life'. We are proud and delighted to support the 'On-the-go' Beauty Service, as it gives u the unique opportunity of connecting meaningful social impact with enhanced employee experience," said Rajani Athreya, Senior Director, Insights & Country HR Services, Kantar, South Asia.



Kantar India Foundation and Sambhav Foundation have been running skill training programs in beauty and other trades, for underprivileged women in Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. This beauty service initiative takes this one step further, by enabling wage-earning opportunities for these skilled beauticians. This distinctive initiative culminates in both employee engagement and sustainable livelihoods and is designed to be a unique women empowerment program. The beauty service will not only be a beauty grooming session for Kantar employees but also a firsthand experience of the impact made by the CSR initiative, powered by Kantar India Foundation and Sambhav Foundation. Kantar employees made appointments to avail the quick services offered and got an insight into the life of these women beneficiaries via interaction. The initiative is organised as a part the of the ongoing festive season and will go on for 5 days exclusively for Kantar Employees at DLF Cyber Park, Gurugram.

Sambhav Foundation also conducts similar wage-improvement programs in several other trades, as a part of its women-centric initiatives. Write to: [email protected] About Sambhav Foundation Sambhav Foundation, is a not-for-profit organisation that envisions a more equitable future for vulnerable communities, including women, youth, and the intellectually challenged, by empowering them with skills and linking them to sustainable livelihoods via education, employment and entrepreneurship. It also ensures smooth functioning of the other aspects of the social grid like healthcare, educational infrastructure, environment and access to affordable financial services to the community.

Sambhav programs have impacted more than 1 million lives in India, including 13K micro-entrepreneurs incubated, in partnership with 2,000 partners till date. The foundation operates a network of 100+ skilling centres countrywide that offer 85+ vocational training courses.

Visit www.sambhavfoundation.org to learn more. About Kantar India Foundation Kantar India Foundation is a CSR initiative of Kantar India built on the pillars of inclusive growth, responsible choices, and building a sustainable future for all. Our overarching mission is centered on the empowerment of women through the 'Equipping Women for Life' initiative, which aims to provide women with the means for sustainable livelihoods, thus catalyzing societal progress and reshaping their roles in the workforce. We actively champion a diverse array of development programs, spanning education, livelihood support, healthcare, and more.

Kantar is the world's leading marketing data and analytics business and an indispensable brand partner to the world's top companies. We combine the most meaningful attitudinal and behavioural data with deep expertise and advanced analytics to uncover how people think and act. We help clients understand what has happened and why and how to shape marketing strategies that shape their future.

Visit www.kantar.com to know more. Photo 1: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210731/on_the_go_beautypreneurs.jpg

Photo 2: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2210732/on_the_go_service_kiosk.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/best-of-both-worlds-combining-skill-development-with-employee-engagement-for-sustainable-livelihoods-of-beautypreneurs-301927584.html

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] Spectro Cloud Announces Qualcomm Ventures Investment to Accelerate Edge and AI Innovation at Scale Tweet

Spectro Cloud, a leading platform provider of modern Kubernetes management, today announced an investment led by Qualcomm Ventures. Spectro Cloud is a leader in helping organizations realize the true potential of Kubernetes and its related ecosystem across any datacenter, cloud, or edge environment, at scale. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914570380/en/ Qualcomm Ventures & Spectro Cloud (Graphic: Business Wire) This new investment will help Spectro Cloud further extend its industry leadership in the areas of Kubernetes management, edge, and the related use of powerful new technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) across a variety of industries and applications, including automotive, industrial automation, healthcare, retail, energy and telecommunications. While organizations realize the transformative potential of the confluence of Kubernetes, edge computing and AI, they are often held back by significant challenges: Lack of on-site technical skills to deploy, activate and maintain complex and highly distributed computing stacks, comprising a combination of specialized hardware and modern applications including AI-augmented workloads.

Security concerns due to an expanded attack surface that infrastructure is exposed to at the edge, exacerbated by often sensitive and confidential AI data and models.

Variable connectivity that can disrupt normal operations and management, ultimately, compromising workload availability and value to customers, partners, and employees.

Unsustainable workload to manage large numbers of highly distributed edge locations across the full lifecycle, including the need to frequently apply changes, patches and monitor AI stacks. These challenges make it difficult to effectively combine the ability to both deploy and scale applications at the edge while maintaining flexibility, choice, and cost-efficiency. "As the adoption of AI technologies accelerates, the need for more processing to be done on and near the device has become essential," said Carlos Kkron, Vice President, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and Managing Director, Qualcomm Ventures Americas. "Spectro Cloud's solution helps solve the unique challenges that come with deploying modern applications at the edge. We are thrilled to invest in Spectro Cloud to enable Edge AI across industries."



The Spectro Cloud Palette Edge platform addresses the challenges of running Kubernetes and AI at the edge, enabling teams to easily deploy and manage the complete lifecycle of full software stacks, significantly reducing operational effort and cost. It provides: A unique decentralized architecture for scale from one to tens of thousands of clusters, for any type of deployment or type of connectivity.

Comprehensive management across the full lifecycle with plug-n-play onboarding and full-stack declarative management from the OS to the application, for both bare metal and virtualized appliances.

Security from the silicon to the application with tightly integrated capabilities between hardware and software, flexible immutability and end-to-end encryption and zero-trust access. Also announced today, the new Palette EdgeAI solution is built to simplify the deployment and management of AI-ready edge software stacks, including improving AI engine and model accessibility, simplifying upgrades and rollbacks, and enabling advanced capabilities such as federated training and advanced model observability.

"We could not be more excited to welcome Qualcomm Ventures to the Spectro Cloud family," said Tenry Fu, Spectro Cloud CEO and co-founder. "The investment, beyond validating our team's ability to execute and solve real problems for our customers, reflects the market momentum around edge and AI. Our two companies share a view of what's needed and possible to help our customers, and that's really exciting". With headquarters in San Jose, California, and locations in India and Europe, Spectro Cloud will use the new investment funds to further extend its Palette platform to meet the increasing needs of businesses to simplify the delivery of modern cloud native applications at scale across any environment. Spectro Cloud will also grow its commercial and public sector direct and channel partner sales and support. Qualcomm Ventures is joined in this round of funding by NEC and Translink Orchestrating Future Fund, plus existing Spectro Cloud investors. About Qualcomm Ventures Qualcomm Ventures, acting through Qualcomm Ventures LLC or its affiliated entities, has been making strategic investments in technology companies that have the potential to dramatically transform our world since 2000. As a global investor, we look to help entrepreneurs build revolutionary businesses that reshape the world around us. For more information please visit: www.qualcommventures.com. About Spectro Cloud Spectro Cloud uniquely enables organizations to deploy and manage Kubernetes in production, at scale. Its Palette enterprise Kubernetes management platform gives platform engineering and DevOps teams effortless control of the full Kubernetes lifecycle even across multiple clouds, data centers, bare metal and edge environments. Ops teams are empowered to support their developers with curated Kubernetes stacks and tools based on their specific needs, with granular governance and enterprise-grade security. Co-founded in 2019 by CEO Tenry Fu, Vice President of Engineering Gautam Joshi and Chief Technology Officer Saad Malik, Spectro Cloud is backed by Stripes, Sierra Ventures, Qualcomm Ventures, NEC and Translink Orchestrating Future Fund, Boldstart Ventures, Westwave Capital, Alter Venture Partners, Firebolt Ventures, T-Mobile Ventures and TSG. For more information, visit https://www.spectrocloud.com or follow @spectrocloudinc and @spectrocloudgov on Twitter. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914570380/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] Intermap's InsitePro Clients Post Excellent Underwriting Results After Tropical Storm Hilary Tweet

InsitePro generates strong recurring revenue growth through the first half of 2023

Annual net retention of 96% shows strong renewals DENVER, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Intermap Technologies (TSX: IMP; OTCQB: ITMSF) (Intermap or the Company), a global leader in 3D geospatial products and intelligence solutions, today announced that its U.S. insurance solution, InsitePro, empowered customers to report excellent underwriting results after Tropical Storm Hilary. Major storm events are the testing ground for underwriting solutions, and like with Ian and Harvey, InsitePro delivered excellent results through Tropical Storm Hilary, the first such storm to hit California in over 80 years. Hilary dropped a years worth of rain on Southern California in three days, but InsitePros robust risk selection delivered low claims totals, with some large California underwriter customers reporting no claims at all. These results demonstrate the importance of incorporating advances in technology and staying up to date with climate change. The private flood market is growing rapidly. Less than 20% of properties in the U.S. are covered by flood insurance, representing an enormous opportunity for insurers to grow the premium they underwrite. InsitePro is helping insurers, including two of the nations top 10 property insurers, underwrite flood insurance profitably, said Patrick A. Blott, Intermap Chairman and CEO. InsitePro has proven again that flood can be underwritten effectively and profitably anywhere in the country, including California. One of Intermaps clients, Sterling Surplus Underwriting, recently renewed and doubled its subscription to InsitePro due to very high usage and accurate risk analysis outcomes. Many U.S. clients are seeing very few insurance claims from recent storms as a result of using InsitePro for risk selection and underwriting. Intermap has been a trusted partner for years, said C. Brad Moncrief, Owner of Sterling Surplus Underwriters. The accuracy and speed of their data delivery allows Sterling to make confident underwriting and pricing decisions, which has led to fewer claims and profitable business. Another longtime client, Superior Flood, is one of the oldest private flood insurance companies in the country, in business since 2000 and serving tens of thousands of clients throughout the U.S., including Hawaii. We have been refining our underwriting guidelines using Intermaps technological advances by detecting and eliminating high-risk properties in areas exposed to catastrophic weather events, said Matt Herr, Owner of Superior Flood. This has proven to be a major win for Superior Flood and all of our Lloyds of London Syndicates. We are proud to announce that we have not had any claims due to Hilary, we had zero claims for Nicole and under 20 claims for Ian. We at Superior Flood send our sincre thoughts and prayers to those who were affected by any major storm. Its devastating to lose a home and personal belongings in such a traumatic way.



InsitePro is a Software as a Service package that delivers property-specific underwriting analytics for flood insurance anywhere in the U.S. and Canada. InsitePro leverages Intermaps proprietary datasets and algorithms to measure flood risk more accurately than other solutions. InsitePro insurance software and analytics posted 12% growth of monthly recurring revenue (MRR) through the first half of 2023. The growth was underpinned by six long-term clients increasing their annual subscription value by up to 100% over the previous year. Retention of revenue remains robust with an annual net retention (ANR) rate of 96% as of June 30, 2023. Learn more about Intermaps insurance solutions and InsitePro at intermap.com/insurance

Intermap Reader Advisory

Certain information provided in this news release, including reference to revenue growth, constitutes forward-looking statements. The words "anticipate", "expect", "project", "estimate", "forecast", "will be", "will consider", "intends" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Although Intermap believes that these statements are based on information and assumptions which are current, reasonable and complete, these statements are necessarily subject to a variety of known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Intermaps forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties pertaining to, among other things, cash available to fund operations, availability of capital, revenue fluctuations, nature of government contracts, economic conditions, loss of key customers, retention and availability of executive talent, competing technologies, common share price volatility, loss of proprietary information, software functionality, internet and system infrastructure functionality, information technology security, breakdown of strategic alliances, and international and political considerations, as well as those risks and uncertainties discussed Intermaps Annual Information Form and other securities filings. While the Company makes these forward-looking statements in good faith, should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary significantly from those expected. Accordingly, no assurances can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, what benefits that the Company will derive therefrom. All subsequent forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, attributable to Intermap or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as at the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the forward-looking statements made herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities law. About Intermap Technologies

Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Intermap (TSX: IMP; OTCQB: ITMSF) is a global leader in geospatial intelligence solutions, focusing on the creation and analysis of 3D terrain data to produce high-resolution thematic models. Through scientific analysis of geospatial information and patented sensors and processing technology, the Company provisions diverse, complementary, multi-source datasets to enable customers to seamlessly integrate geospatial intelligence into their workflows. Intermaps 3D elevation data and software analytic capabilities enable global geospatial analysis through artificial intelligence and machine learning, providing customers with critical information to understand their terrain environment. By leveraging its proprietary archive of the worlds largest collection of multi-sensor global elevation data, the Companys collection and processing capabilities provide multi-source 3D datasets and analytics at mission speed, enabling governments and companies to build and integrate geospatial foundation data with actionable insights. Applications for Intermaps products and solutions include defense, aviation and UAV flight planning, flood and wildfire insurance, disaster mitigation, base mapping, environmental and renewable energy planning, telecommunications, engineering, critical infrastructure monitoring, hydrology, land management, oil and gas and transportation. For more information, please visit www.intermap.com or contact:

Jennifer Bakken

Executive Vice President and CFO

[email protected]

+1 (303) 708-0955



[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] NTT and NCNP to Develop Brain Bio-Digital Twin Technology Tweet

NTT Corporation (NTT) and the National Center for Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP) have entered into a partnership agreement to develop "Brain Bio-Digital Twin" technology. The collaboration will focus on applying this groundbreaking technology to detect and prevent dementia, depression and other mental illnesses. NTT and NCNP will initially focus on practical applications of this technology that eliminate the need for invasive and costly testing of various brain diseases. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914127672/en/ Figure 1: The Concept of Brain Bio-Digital Twin (Photo: Business Wire) By implementing NTT's Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) technologies, the Brain-Bio Digital Twin technology has the potential to truly personalise medicine, helping to prevent medical errors and accelerate drug trials. The number of people diagnosed with dementia and depression is growing every year. A Japanese government study found that in 2025, approximately 6.75 million people over the age of 65 in the country will have dementia.[1] In addition, the percentage of people diagnosed with depression in Japan has more than doubled since before the pandemic.[2] These conditions are challenging to address because of the lack of systematic medicines and treatment methods, the need for complex and highly invasive testing and the psychological and economic burden on patients. NCNP, a board member of Japan Health Research Promotion Bureau, aims to overcome these challenges and achieve high-quality medical care, including personalised medicine, through the concept of the Brain Bio-Digital Twin (Figure 1). Specifically, the organisation is building a library platform that aggregates and systematically organises vast amounts of data on mental and nervous system diseases that have been acquired through clinical and research activities. Once the data is collected and analysed, it can be used to model disease states using AI and ML and to develop an AI brain simulator that predicts brain states and functions of disease states. In November 2020, NTT proposed the concept of Bio-Digital Twin, which allows users to map not only the brain but also the body and psycology as detailed digital data, to understand the current state of a person's physical and mental conditions.[3] In addition to its experience in conducting research and development of a bio-digital twin for the mind and body, including the heart, NTT can leverage high-level AI and ML processing technology that enables NTT to accelerate research on Brain Bio-Digital Twin and make a significant contribution to the early development of these technologies. In addition, NTT will also build an ecosystem with business partners for commercialization and promotion.



As part of this partnership, NCNP will provide image data such as PET (Positron Emission Tomography) and bio samples (Blood, cerebrospinal fluid, tissue samples, genetic information, etc.), which are particularly useful for analysing cranial nerve diseases. NCNP will also provide medical interpretation of the underlying relationship between the results obtained by AI and ML processing and pathology, and necessary clinical implementation. The Brain Bio-Digital Twin incorporates various types of body data obtained through medical examinations into a computer as digital data and enables the creation of detailed maps and biological models through digital twin computing technology. The practical application of the Brain Bio-Digital Twin will enable the "twin" to be used for testing, rather than the patient's own brain and nerves.

The following effects can be expected from the practical application of the Brain Bio-Digital Twin. Reduce the physical and mental burden of patients by eliminating the need for invasive and complex tests

Reduce patient's cost burden by enabling simplified testing

Conduct tests and treatments in small hospitals through data sharing of large testing equipment

Premedication prediction of the presence and severity of side effects

Improve clinical efficacy by accelerating approval of medicines (supporting clinical trials)

Prediction of risk and early detection and prevention of disease by advanced analysis of clinical findings

Systematic establishment of medicines and treatment methods through data collection, reproduction, and analysis of a wide variety of disease states By bringing together accumulated data and knowledge, NCNP and NTT will begin to build a platform for processing Brain Bio-Digital Twin in FY 2024. In the next three years, the organisations plan to model several brain and nervous system functions and diseases. Subsequently, the organisations will cooperate with pharmaceutical regulations on pressing issues that require the development of effective therapeutic medicines and aim to create a practical system for the early detection and prevention of diseases; for example, accurately predicting an individual's risk for severe side effects before taking medications. References:

[1] Cabinet Office: Annual Report on the Aging Society: 2017 (Summary)

https://www8.cao.go.jp/kourei/english/annualreport/2017/2017pdf_e.html [2] OECD: A New Benchmark for Mental Health Systems

https://www.oecd.org/health/a-new-benchmark-for-mental-health-systems-4ed890f6-en.htm [3] NTT R&D: Bio-Digital Twin Technology and Medical Business

https://www.rd.ntt/research/JN202301_20618.html

About NTT

NTT contributes to a sustainable society through the power of innovation. We are a leading global technology company providing services to consumers and business as a mobile operator, infrastructure, networks, applications, and consulting provider. Our offerings include digital business consulting, managed application services, workplace and cloud solutions, data center and edge computing, all supported by our deep global industry expertise. We are over $100B in revenue and 330,000 employees, with $3.6B in annual R&D investments. Our operations span across 80+ countries and regions, allowing us to serve clients in over 190 of them. We serve over 75% of Fortune Global 100 companies, thousands of other enterprise and government clients and millions of consumers. About NCNP

The National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), located in the suburb of Tokyo, was established in 1986, as one of the six national centers of Japan. Our activities are characterized by close affiliation of two major Institutes (National Institute of Neuroscience and National Institute of Mental Health) and National Center Hospital of Neurology and Psychiatry. This effort is catalyzed by the Translational Medical Center, Integrative Brain Imaging Center, Center for Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Research and other facilities. We contribute to human health and welfare. It offers high level medicine for patients with mental, nervous, muscular, and developmental disorders and aims to improve their quality of life (QOL). It promotes research on prevention and therapy of such disorders and produces highly qualified medical and health care professionals. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914127672/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] AEO Inc. Expands ESG Goals and Highlights More Than Two Decades of Progress in Second "Building a Better World" Report Tweet

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (NYSE: AEO) today released its second environmental (Planet), social (People) and governance (Practices) report detailing progress made through the company's Building a Better World strategy. AEO also announced new sustainability goals after exceeding several water conservation targets. Most notably, the company reduced water use per pair of jeans produced by 38% in 2022, surpassing the initial water reduction goal one year early. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913947524/en/ Courtesy of AEO, Inc. A commitment to social responsibility has been central to AEO since its inception, as evidenced through its initiatives and more than two decades of ESG achievements. With enhanced transparency, as well as SASB and TCFD-aligned sustainability reporting, AEO's commitment to increased oversight and performance has resulted in a number of advancements over the last twelve months, including MSCI's upgrade of AEO's ESG rating from "BBB" to "A." "Doing good-and doing right by our customers, associates and communities is deeply woven within the fabric of AEO," said Jay Schottenstein, Executive Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. "We are proud to release our second ESG report to highlight greater transparency and our ongoing commitment to building a better world. Every day we strive to make lasting improvements across our organization that will lead to a more sustainable and equitable future." The report also highlights a number of new programs through AEO's charitable giving that further champions causes that ae important to its customers and communities. In 2022, AEO established the Aerie Real Foundation, formalizing and expanding on the brand's decades-long history of philanthropy to promote women's empowerment, inclusivity and sustainability.



Expanded and Enhanced Planet Goals AEO has achieved or exceeded several environmental goals, directed at protecting the planet and driving meaningful change across the retail industry. To reflect this progress, the company has added the following targets to its existing goals:

Recycle 70% of total water used in denim laundries by 2025;

Reduce its water footprint by 30% by 2028 across its own operations, and strategic factories and mills;

Commit to net-zero emissions by 2050;

Reduce virgin plastic by 50% and reduce total plastic footprint by 30% by 2028; and

Use sustainable sources for 75% of all fibers by 2028. 2022 Highlights: Our Journey To Building A Better World Together with customers, donated over $10 million to nonprofits that share AEO's vision for building a better world and include support of mental health, youth and women's empowerment and education programs for teens and young adults;

Awarded nearly $850,000 to 45 associates through its Steven A. Davis Scholarship for Social Justice, a $5 million commitment launched in 2021 to advance educational opportunities for AEO associates who are actively driving anti-racism, equality and social justice initiatives;

Saved 4 billion gallons of water across jeans factories since the launch of the company's Water Leadership Program in 2017;

Recycled 9 million gallons of water at laundries in 2022;

Saved the equivalent of 174 million plastic bottles by ensuring 25% of all polyester used in production came from recycled sources;

Logged more than 14,000 hours of volunteer service by associates in local communities; and

Introduced Be Well@AEO, a holistic program providing associates with tools and resources to manage their mental and physical health, financial goals and more. To view the full report and learn more about AEO's Planet, People and Practices initiatives, please click here. About American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (NYSE: AEO) is a leading global specialty retailer offering high-quality, on-trend clothing, accessories and personal care products at affordable prices under its American Eagle and Aerie brands. Our purpose is to show the world that there's REAL power in the optimism of youth. The company operates stores in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Hong Kong and Japan, and ships to approximately 80 countries worldwide through its websites. American Eagle and Aerie merchandise also is available at more than 260 international locations operated by licensees in approximately 30 countries. To learn more about AEO and the company's commitment to Planet, People and Practices, please visit www.aeo-inc.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913947524/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
Parts of New England already soaked with rain were expecting more precipitation on Wednesday, as residents in Massachusetts and Rhode Island spent the day cleaning up the flood damage while bracing for Hurricane Lee as it barreled north toward the region.

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey issued a state of emergency Tuesday night following the catastrophic flash flooding and property damage in two counties and other communities. The 10 inches (25 centimeters) of rain over six hours earlier in the week was a 200-year event, said Matthew Belk, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Boston.

Healey said Wednesday that while there arent plans to call up the National Guard, the states emergency management agency is keeping a close eye on the weather and is prepared to offer assistance.

She said the state is monitoring the conditions of dams in many communities and urged residents to take seriously any warnings of potential flooding and to stay off the roads when ordered. Something that looks pretty minor can, just within a couple of hours, turn into something very serious, potentially deadly and very, very destructive, Healey said.

The rain created several sinkholes in Leominster, Massachusetts, including one at a dealership where several cars were swallowed up. In Providence, Rhode Island, downpours flooded a parking lot and parts of a shopping mall. Firefighters used inflatable boats to rescue more than two dozen people stranded in cars.

Parking lots at several businesses briefly became lakes in Leominster and North Attleborough, and many front yards were still partially covered in water. For a second day, families were busy assessing the damage and removing flood-damaged debris. The sounds of generators filled the air in many neighborhoods, as residents worked to remove water from their basements.

Dawn Packer, who runs a North Attleborough home preschool, looked across the street Monday evening to see a UPS truck floating in several feet of water. Soon her yard was flooding.

We ran downstairs. It was dry. We were happy about that. I started putting all my child care center stuff up high. All of a sudden, the door smashed open. The water was so forceful. It just smashed the door open and poured in, 4 feet, she said. The refrigerator just shot up into the air and fell down on its side. It was horrific.

After a dry day, it started raining in Leominster again on Wednesday afternoon. Parts of Massachusetts and Rhode Island were under a flash flood warning. Earlier in the day, there were heavy downpours in Danbury, Connecticut, where officials said they had to rescue several people from vehicles stuck in floodwaters.

Rain from Hurricane Lee didnt contribute to the flooding earlier this week. But it could inundate parts of the coastal Northeast during the weekend, forecasters said. Lee is traveling north and could make landfall in Nova Scotia, Canada, possibly as a tropical storm, forecasters said.

The ground is saturated. It cant take in anymore, Dean Mazzarella, mayor of Leominster, said at a news conference Wednesday in the city about 40 miles (65 kilometers) northwest of Boston. But he said the city had emergency resources at the ready for whatever the weather brings.

Mazarella said up to 300 people were evacuated by Tuesday morning in the city, which has not seen such widespread damage since a 1936 hurricane. Most buildings downtown flooded and some collapsed. Rail service was also disrupted.

Mazzarella said the city was trying to help get assistance to homeowners and businesses that suffered damage. He said early estimates on city infrastructure restoration projects could be anywhere from $25 million to $40 million.

Leominsters director of emergency management, Arthur Elbthal, said two dams out of 24 in the city sustained damage. They held, and the city is reinforcing them.

New England has experienced its share of flooding this summer, including a storm that dumped up to two months of rain in two days in Vermont in July, resulting in two deaths. Scientists are finding that storms around the world are forming in a warmer atmosphere, making extreme rainfall a more frequent reality now. A warming world will only make that worse.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
[September 14, 2023] GenAI Startup Andi Expands Executive Team, Moves Headquarters to San Francisco Tweet

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Andi , which is building search for the next generation, announced today that it has expanded its executive team with the addition of new Chief Operating Officer (COO) Nick Chan , who joins from BetMakers Technology Group, where he was Director and also an advisor to Andi and several other startups. He previously served as CEO and other senior executive roles at several media companies in his native Australia.

As COO, Chan will be responsible for driving the daily operations of the fast-growing startup to ensure that Andis founders can focus on their mission of un-breaking the internet. The media industry has been greatly affected by search as it is now. Large search engines have taken away revenue from the content producers and placed it into their own pockets. Andi wants to rebuild the relationship between media companies and search. Nicks 20+ years of experience working as a C-suite executive at several Australian media companies will help Andis initiative of ensuring media companies and content creators receive fair attribution. Nick has extensive experience helping startups build the foundation for growth, and in his time as advisor to Andi, provided advice that was crucial to our early success, said Angela Hoover, Co-founder and CEO of Andi. When it came time to hire our first COO, he was the unanimous choice of th founders and the Board. Were thrilled that hes joined us full time.



Working with Andi has been rejuvenating for me - Im able to bring all my startup experience together to build something new from the ground up, after investing in and advising companies for many years, said Chan. Working with Angela and her Co-founder Jed has been a great experience, and I couldnt pass up the opportunity to join full time to help Andi continue to drive innovation in this space. Andi also announced today that it has moved its headquarters from Miami to San Franciscos financial district (600 California St.). Weve learned as weve grown the Andi team that we are more effective when we work together in person, and locating in San Francisco made the most sense to us because theres so much AI talent there, said Angela Hoover, Co-founder and CEO of Andi. San Francisco has emerged as the epicenter of the AI revolution, and we are already benefiting from being part of this community in terms of hiring and access to capital. Were very excited to establish and grow our presence here.

Andi pioneered conversational, generative question answering and realized early on that the most important thing to users is concise answers that are reliable, trustworthy and accurate. Its features have been copied by many in Big Tech. The company has 360,000+ daily average users who perform millions of searches each day. Try it for yourself at andisearch.com . About Andi

Andi is building search for the next generation - visual, conversational and factually accurate. Search is broken. Results are overwhelmed with ads, clickbait and spam. Andi solved this by pioneering conversational search, the first smart search assistant using generative AI to find the right answers and give you clear summaries of the best results, like chatting with a smart friend. Free for anyone to use, Andi is ad free and completely anonymous with no personal data tracking. Andis long-term vision is to provide an AI assistant that can answer questions and automate tasks in your life - its starting with search. Learn more at andisearch.com . A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/77054f0c-6a2a-4597-ab5c-34739dded9e6

Media Contact: Michelle Faulkner Big Swing 617-510-6998 [email protected]

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] RIA Sowell Management's End-to-end Tech Solution Innovating the Way Financial Advisors Do Business Tweet

One of the primary objectives of Sowell Management, a privately held Registered Investment Advisor that serves financial advisors nationwide, is to lead the charge in delivering innovative solutions that foster growth and scale faster. The company is doing just that with the recent launch of FLEX Connect, its end-to-end technology solution that empowers financial advisors through every stage of the wealth management life cycle. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914192454/en/ Sowell Management, an RIA based in Arkansas, recently launched FLEX Connect, an end-to-end technology solution for its financial advisor partners. The project has been in the works for almost two years and is being well received by its clients. (Graphic: Business Wire) Sowell Management provides a transformative platform of services and solutions to advisors on the path of independence - helping them be in business for themselves, not by themselves. The company has a nationwide client base, with $4 billion in AUM/AUA*. Bill Sowell, the company's CEO, said the changing landscape of the financial advisory industry requires firms to embrace innovation to grow. "The industry is constantly evolving - especially in the field of technology. And today's independent advisors are faced with more competition than ever - from large financial institutions to robo-advisors. Staying ahead is critical," he said. Sowell said that is why the development and addition of FLEX Connect to the firm's arsenal of services is turning out to be a game changer for many of its advisor partners. "I know firsthand that an advisor's time is money, and many advisors spend too much time on non-revenue-generating and non-client-facing activities. Sowell's goal is to help advisors minimize the time spent on low-return activities, so they can maximize their time and energy to grow their practice. The best way we've found to do that is by working with true partners and utilizing leading technology solutions," he said.



Daryl Seaton, Sowell Management's president, described FLEX Connect as a cloud-based platform that allows advisors to seamlessly manage their practice all in one place. Seaton, who led the charge in bringing the innovative idea of FLEX Connect to life, said it is powered by GeoWealth, a firm specializing in constructing adaptable, open-architecture platforms tailored to meet the needs of RIAs like Sowell Management. Seaton said the company's advisors now have one tool to accomplish most everything they need to do. "This is something we have been working on - and working toward - for almost two years. Change isn't always easy, but this change was worth the research, time, money and total company effort we put into it. Now, instead of multiple technology tools - from CRMs to portfolio management - our advisors have one. FLEX Connect provides proposal generation, account opening, investment research, branded reporting, account services and a client portal," he said.

Portfolio management is one of the most exciting features of the FLEX Connect solution, Seaton said. "It is available 24/7 through cloud access and allows our advisors to intelligently manage, trade and rebalance client portfolios, giving them the freedom to act as portfolio manager and choose any combination of model portfolios that may suit their client's investment needs," he said. "In addition to the Sowell Management models, the Unified Managed Account (UMA) technology within FLEX Connect enables advisors to allocate a broad selection of Mutual Funds, ETFs and Individual Securities - all in a single account," he added. Josh Morales, who owns and manages Kansas City, Missouri-based Nest Financial, said his firm takes the complicated world of investing and simplifies it for the everyday person. Morales was one of Sowell Management's first advisors to adopt FLEX Connect. "Using this solution goes a long way toward our mission at Nest Financial Advisors. It streamlines the way our advisors work with Sowell Management, our RIA, and it simplifies the advisor-client relationship as well. It's a win-win," he said. Seaton said that while having the right technology tools in place is crucial to a company's growth, having people as resources is equally as important. "At Sowell, we build real relationships with our advisor partners. We have teams in place to provide help in every area that is needed - from transition and solutions consultants to our asset management team. We're just a phone call away," he said. About Sowell Management Sowell Management is a privately held Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) and a trusted partner to financial advisors. They are a Forbes and Barrons* top 100 RIA and were founded in 2001 on the principles of fee-based fiduciary investing. Sowell Management provides a platform of services and solutions that leads advisors on the path of independence - including end-to-end technology and portfolio management - meeting advisors where they are and taking them where they want to go. Sowell offers a diversity of services and has a nationwide client base, with $4 billion in AUM/AUA* as of December 2022. Sowell Management - there for the advisors; there for the journey. *Regulatory assets under management (AUM) are assets where Sowell provides continuous and regular supervisory or management services to client portfolios. Assets under administration (AUA) is a measure of the total assets for which Sowell provides administrative services. Third-party rankings and recognition from rating services or publications are no guarantee of future investment success. Working with a highly rated advisor does not ensure that a client or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance or results. These ratings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor or by any client, nor are they representative of any one client's evaluation. Generally, rankings and recognition are based on information prepared and submitted by the advisor. No fee was paid for consideration of this award, and consideration for Barron's top 100 RIAs was published in Sept 2020. No fee was paid for consideration of this award, and consideration for the Forbes 2022 Top 100 RIAs was conducted by interview on June 29, 2022. The report was published in October, 2022. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914192454/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] Wells Fargo launches Stock Fractions? in the Wells Fargo Mobile app Tweet

Wells Fargo Wealth & Investment Management announces the launch of Stock Fractions?, giving WellsTrade clients the ability to buy fractions of a company's stock in the Wells Fargo Mobile app. Stock Fractions? allows do-it-yourself investing clients to build a diversified portfolio, regardless of stock price. Clients can now buy pieces of up to 500 of the most traded equities, starting with as little as $10.00. WellsTrade also offers $0 online trades and a $0 annual fee.* This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914398254/en/ Michelle Moore, head of Consumer and Wealth & Investment Management Digital at Wells Fargo (Photo: Wells Fargo) "With the launch of Stock Fractions? we're helping to make investing more accessible to even more people," said Michelle Moore, head of Consumer and Wealth & Investment Management Digital at Wells Fargo. "You can own a little of a lot of companies, and trading in your favorite companies could not be easier, all in the Wells Fargo Mobile app," she said. The introduction of Stock Fractions? is one of a number of enhancements recently made to enhance the WellsTrade client experience in the Wells Fargo Mobile app - including easier navigation and access to research, ability to manage dividend reinvestments, after-hours trading, chat with a servicing agent, and access to LifeSync to set and track goals. This video highlights recent enhancements to the Wells Fargo Mobile app and showcases its features. "Wells Fargo is on a mobile transformation journey, and we are driven to provide more intuitive digital experiences, while elevating the overall customer experience with better products and services," said Moore.







Investment and Insurance Products are: Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency

Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate

Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested

*$0 per trade is applicable to commissions for online and automated telephone trading of stocks and exchange traded funds (ETFs). For stock and ETF trades placed with an agent over the telephone, a $25 agent-assisted trading fee is charged. Each trade will be treated as a separate transaction, subject to commission. An order that executes over multiple trading days may be subject to additional commission. One commission will be assessed for multiple trades, entered separately, that execute on the same day, on the same side of the market. Other fees and commissions apply to a WellsTrade account. For complete information on fees and commissions, refer to wellsfargo.com/investing/wellstrade-online-brokerage/pricing. Schedule subject to change at any time. About Wells Fargo Wealth & Investment Management Wells Fargo Wealth & Investment Management (WIM) is a division within Wells Fargo & Company. WIM provides financial products and services through various bank and brokerage affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company and is one of the largest wealth managers in the U.S., with more than $1.9 trillion in client assets. WIM provides personalized wealth management, brokerage, financial planning, lending, private banking, trust, and fiduciary products and services to affluent, high-net worth, and ultra-high-net worth clients. WIM operates through advisors in Wells Fargo Advisors, independent brokerage offices, and digitally through Intuitive Investor and WellsTrade, as well as through advisors in The Private Bank experience and banking centers. The Private Bank is an experience level for qualifying clients of Wells Fargo Wealth & Investment Management (WIM), offering financial products and services through affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company. Bank products and services are available through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Member FDIC. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., is a bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Brokerage services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Members SIPC, separate registered broker-dealers and non-bank affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company. WellsTrade and Intuitive Investor brokerage accounts are offered through Wells Fargo Clearing Services. About Wells Fargo Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a leading financial services company that has approximately $1.9 trillion in assets, proudly serves one in three U.S. households and more than 10% of small businesses in the U.S., and is a leading middle market banking provider in the U.S. We provide a diversified set of banking, investment and mortgage products and services, as well as consumer and commercial finance, through our four reportable operating segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth & Investment Management. Wells Fargo ranked No. 47 on Fortune's 2023 rankings of America's largest corporations. In the communities we serve, the company focuses its social impact on building a sustainable, inclusive future for all by supporting housing affordability, small business growth, financial health, and a low-carbon economy. News, insights, and perspectives from Wells Fargo are also available at Wells Fargo Stories. Additional information may be found at www.wellsfargo.com | Twitter: @WellsFargo #0307025-5934744-1.1 News Release Category: WF-ERS View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914398254/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] Intellias Becomes Vector Certified Embedded Engineering Partner Tweet

Vector certification strengthens Intellias' embedded software expertise

Program focuses on AUTOSAR Classic, the industry's embedded software standard MUNICH, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Intellias, a leading technology partner to automotive OEMs and suppliers, has become a Vector Certified Embedded Engineering Partner (CEEP). To achieve certification, Intellias engineers successfully completed Vector's Certified Embedded Professional (CEP) program, which focuses on AUTOSAR Classic, the embedded software standard. The new partnership between Vector and Intellias paves the way for both companies to scale technological capabilities and explore new business opportunities. "The successful completion of our Certified Embedded Professional (CEP) program by Intellias engineers highlights their dedication to driving excellence in AUTOSAR Classic projects and internally fostering the transfer and sharing of knowledge," said Florian Sommer, business development manager at Vector. "This partnership underscores our shared commitment to the continuous growth of expertise in the industry." As a Vector CEEP, Intellias is positioned to provide reliable, high-quality service for Vector's AUTOSAR Classic Basic Software MICROSAR, covering introduction, development and integration support. As an associate partner and active member of the AUTOSAR community, Intellias also can maximize its Vector partnership by investing in research and development projects aimed at delivering cutting-edge automotive embedded solutions. "As an AUTOSAR associate partner, we are thrilled to forge this new partnership with Vector, a pioneering force in automotive electronics development," said Adam Konopa, technology director at Intellias. "Together we will drive innovation and harness our collective expertise to sape the future of mobility solutions. We look forward to the exciting possibilities and the remarkable advancements that we will achieve together."



Vector certification provides additional benefits for Intellias and its clients in the automotive and mobility sectors. Applying deeper expertise gained through Certified Embedded Professional training, Intellias engineers will process embedded software projects much faster and more efficiently, fostering stronger connections with Vector experts and gaining access to the latest information on technology advancements. Customers from the automotive, commercial vehicle, aeronautical, transport and control engineering domains worldwide rely on solutions and products of independent Vector groups. Within the scope of the Vector CEP program, engineers pass through comprehensive training to become experts in Vector's advanced software and related development tools. The Vector CEP qualification equips them to provide skilled and efficient support for demanding AUTOSAR Classic projects. In addition, Intellias experts with CEP certification can provide qualified training to other colleagues in order to enhance knowledge in embedded software development.

"Vector education programs elevate embedded software to the next level," said Nikolay Cheliuk, a software engineer at AUTOSAR. "As an independent company, Vector offers the most unbiased and universal solutions, focusing on relevant customer preferences for AUTOSAR products." Abdelrahman Mabrouk, an architect at AUTOSAR added that "Vector's CEEP program deepens AUTOSAR basic software knowledge, enables engineers to be experts in their field and which ensures high-quality output for customers." About Intellias Intellias is a global technology partner with 20 years of experience delivering product engineering and consulting services to Fortune 500 companies. Leading automotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and transportation and mobility service providers including HERE Technologies, Elmos, NNG, DKV, and Rand McNally and others rely on Intellias to co-create custom solutions and digitally transform their businesses. The company empowers future mobility by gathering decades of experience delivering automotive and transportation solutions compliant with NDS, ASPICE, and TISAX. Intellias also contributes to establishing the highest industry standards by partnering with COVESA, Renesas and AUTOSAR. More information is available at www.intellias.com. About Vector Vector is the leading manufacturer of software tools and embedded components for the development of electronic systems and their networking with many different systems from CAN to Automotive Ethernet. The company has been a partner of automotive manufacturers and suppliers and related industries since 1988. Worldwide customers in the automotive, commercial vehicles, aerospace, transportation and control technology industries rely on the solutions and products of the Independent Vector Group for the development of technologies for future mobility. Vector worldwide currently employs more than 3,500 people with sales of 1.06 billion euros in 2022. Vector is headquartered in Germany (Stuttgart) and has subsidiaries in Brazil, China, France, Great Britain, India, Italy, Japan, Austria, Romania, Sweden, South Korea, Spain and the United States. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/intellias-becomes-vector-certified-embedded-engineering-partner-301927987.html SOURCE Intellias

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] Arteria AI Announced As A "2023 Finovate Awards" Winner Tweet

Arteria AI, an award-winning global leader in enterprise documentation infrastructure, has been recognized as a 2023 Finovate Awards Winner in the category recognizing fintechs and/or enterprise technology companies that excel in providing core infrastructure solutions that allow banks and FIs to seamlessly manage their day-to-day operations and enable them to engage with new tech services and establish new products and processes. Recently included in the CB Insights AI 100 rankings as well, ArteriaAI is a recognized industry leader in the modernization of digital documentation. Through its technology platform, the company helps financial institutions drive speed, intelligence and efficiency in critical processes and fill the gap between documentation and automated processes, enabling them to drive true, straight-through-processing within their core business processes.



"We know that many bankers are struggling with core processes that are strategically important to their business and that documentation is at the center of these processes," said Shelby Austin, Co-founder and CEO of Arteria AI. "This award validates our commitment to helping financial institutions solve this problem in a meaningful way through the modernization of their documentation infrastructure, and we want to thank the team at Finovate for this important recognition of the work that we do to support our clients." About Arteria AI

Powered by data, Arteria AI is trusted by the world's largest banks to transform critical document processes at enterprise scale - working smarter and faster to maximize revenue and save time and cost. Arteria AI's documentation solution removes the need for legacy manual processes by structuring data at the onset of the documentation lifecycle. The platform then surfaces data and insights through intelligent workflow tools to speed up decision-making processes for all stakeholders with a highly intuitive front-end. Built by subject matter experts, data scientists and technologists, and recently included in the CB Insights AI 100 rankings, Arteria AI's solution unleashes the power of data to help global, regulated financial institutions solve client document complexity at scale. Adopting an innovative data-first approach, our AI-powered enterprise-ready solution takes the friction out of the paper trail. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914079821/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] MadaLuxe Group Acquires Majority of Tequila Enemigo Tweet

MadaLuxe Group, North America's leading luxury distributor, today announced it has acquired a majority of the Tequila Enemigo brand. The acquisition, the first by MadaLuxe Spirits, a MadaLuxe Group Company, marks the luxury platform's expansion into the premium spirits category. The Tequila Enemigo founding team will retain a significant minority stake in the brand and continue to run all day-to-day operations as well as serve as core members of the MadaLuxe Spirits executive team. Launched in the UK in 2017 by CEO and Co-Founder Robin Clough, Managing Director and Co-Founder Max Davies-Gilbert and Co-Founder Sebastian Gonzalez, Tequila Enemigo entered the US market in 2018 and quickly expanded its nationwide distribution. Now stocked by many of the most famous bars and renowned restaurants across the globe, Enemigo has won 60 awards across three continents, including 15 Double Gold accolades and five Tequila of the Year awards. "We see significant growth potential in the premium spirits space and Tequila Enemigo is the ideal brand to serve as the foundation of our spirits portfolio," said Adam Freede, Co-Founder and CEO of MadaLuxe Group. "Through this move, we're not only acquiring a world-class tequila brand that has been racking up prestigious awards since its launch, but also a phenomenally talented team of founders with deep business and cultural ties in Europe, the US and Mexico." "We searched very carefully to find the ultimate, best-quality premium tequila available in the market," stated Sandy Sholl, Co-Founder and Chairperson of MadaLuxe Group. "When we met founding operating partners Robin, Mx and Sebastian, it became evident that we had finally discovered the perfect collaborator to expand the MadaLuxe Spirits portfolio globally."



Distilled in the town of Tequila, in the foothills of the Tequila volcano in Mexico, Enemigo is made with the finest Blue Weber agave and local water filtered through the mineral-rich volcanic soil using modern techniques that are more environmentally friendly than traditional processes. The tequila is then aged in custom-made American Oak barrels before being purified, resulting in an extraordinarily smooth, clear liquid. "This is a strategic alliance that makes perfect sense for us, as MadaLuxe Group shares our unwavering commitment to quality and an unforgettable luxury experience," said Robin Clough, CEO and Co-Founder, Tequila Enemigo. "We're thrilled to be able to leverage the group's luxury platform, expertise and distribution network as we scale Enemigo internationally."

"We have always been committed to a product-first strategy and having access to MadaLuxe Group's knowledge, network and resources will allow us on the founding team to make the best use of our own respective business ties in the UK, the US and Mexico as we rapidly grow the brand and expand our presence in the most prestigious hospitality venues across the world," added Max Davies-Gilbert, Co-Founder, Tequila Enemigo. The Tequila Enemigo acquisition by MadaLuxe Spirits is MadaLuxe Group's latest move in the continuing expansion of its luxury platform. The company is committed to meeting the evolving needs of luxury consumers across verticals, while leading innovation and sustainability in the retail industry. About MadaLuxe Group MadaLuxe Group is a diversified luxury platform focused on craftsmanship and quality. The group leverages its luxury expertise, operational strength, technology infrastructure and global retail networks to meet the continually evolving demands of a global luxury consumer. MadaLuxe Group's venture capital arm is an early-stage investor in companies with powerful, innovative technologies that have the potential to disrupt categories and markets. For more information, please visit MadaLuxeGroup.com. About Tequila Enemigo Tequila Enemigo was born out of difference, not conformity, and a relentless focus on quality. The company was brought to life in 2017 by Robin Clough, Sebastian Gonzalez and Max Davies-Gilbert, who set out to change the status quo of premium tequila. To date, Tequila Enemigo has received 60 awards across three continents, including 15 Double Gold accolades and five Tequila of the Year awards. Made from the finest Blue Weber Agave and filtered mineral-rich water of the Volcan de Tequila, then aged in custom, handmade American oak barrels, Tequila Enemigo showcases a flavor profile and position in the market unlike any other. Tequila Enemigo's award-winning expressions include the Anejo Cristalino 89 and Extra Anejo 00, which walk the line between tradition and rebellion, giving the sipper a unique and meaningful experience. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913367118/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] Doroni Aerospace Unveils Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Video: A Glimpse into the Future of Personal Transportation Tweet

POMPANO BEACH, Fla., Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Doroni Aerospace, the leading innovator in sustainable transportation and urban air mobility, is thrilled to announce the release of an exclusive behind-the-scenes video, offering an unprecedented look into the development of America's first two-seater flying car, set to revolutionize personal transportation by 2025.

In this captivating video, viewers will embark on a thrilling journey through Doroni Aerospace's groundbreaking project. The video delves into the heart of the company's mission, offering a closer look at the remarkable achievements that are reshaping the future of aviation. Key Highlights from the Video: Introduction to Doroni Aerospace: Witness the passion and dedication of the Doroni Aerospace team as they introduce their ambitious project to create a revolutionary two-seater flying car, set to soar into the skies by 2025. Innovative Technology: Explore the cutting-edge technology that sets the Doroni H1 apart from conventional aircraft and helicopters. Discover how this new innovation promises to redefine personal transportation. User-Friendly Cockpit: Step inside the cockpit as experts demonstrate the user-friendly interface that makes flying the Doroni H1 as simple as a push of a button. Learn how even novice pilots can navigate effortlessly. Safety and Advantages: Learn about the safety features that make the Doroni H1 one of the safest vehicles in the aerospace industry. Discover how low vibration levels and reduced pilot error set this flying car apart from the rest. Battery Technology: Gain insights from an experienced electrical engineer who sheds light on the critical role of battery technology in making this visionary project a reality. Timeline and Potential: Hear about the projected timeline for the Doroni H1's introduction and the incredible potential this technology holds for the future of transportation. CEO's Historic Flight: Witness history in the making as the CEO takes the Doroni H1 on its maiden manned flight, a momentous occasion that marks a giant leap forward in aviation technology. Future Plans: Learn about Doroni Aerospace's plans for their go-to-market product, the H1P2, which promises even more advanced aerodynamics and design. Funding and Recognition: Discover the substantial funding recently secured by Doroni Aerospace and the extesive media recognition the project has garnered, solidifying its position as an industry leader.



This behind-the-scenes video offers a rare opportunity to witness the birth of a new era in transportation. Doroni Aerospace invites viewers to subscribe to their YouTube channel to follow their journey as they bring this revolutionary technology to life in South Florida. Don't miss out on being a part of history! Watch the video and witness firsthand how Doroni Aerospace is transforming the way we move, making the dream of personal flying vehicles a reality.

To watch the exclusive behind-the-scenes video, visit Doroni Aerospace's official website or YouTube channel. To learn more about Doroni Aerospace's cutting-edge eVTOL technology and its mission to transform sustainable transportation, please visit www.doroni.io or email the company at [email protected]. Investors interested in becoming part of the future of mobility are invited to explore investment opportunities at: https://invest.doroni.io/. About Doroni Aerospace: Founded in 2016 by serial entrepreneur Doron Merdinger, Doroni Aerospace is revolutionizing sustainable transportation with its cutting-edge electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology. With 25 years of experience in design, manufacturing, and managing eight-figure firms, Doron assembled a world-class engineering and technical team to deliver on his ultimate vision of democratizing the power of flight and providing consumers with an entirely new mode of mobility. Doroni's mission is to offer a safety-centric, eco-friendly mobility option to the public, commonly referred to as 'flying cars.' By enabling people to transport themselves intuitively within urban environments and between destinations at a fraction of the time possible with traditional automobiles, Doroni aims to transform the way we travel. For press inquiries or further information, please contact: Stephen Francy

Rubenstein PR

212-805-3017

[email protected] A video accompanying this release is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fe284ce6-ba84-4e5b-b1b5-559e30a29fa7



[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] First AlUla World Archaeology Summit gathers over 300 delegates from 39 countries for wide-ranging discussion of archaeology's role in society Tweet

Archaeology is a lens through which we can magnify our past, catch a reflection of our present, and peer into our future

Community involvement can help researchers to understand a heritage site's legacy

Delegates explore key themes toward the pursuit of meaningful change for society AlUla, Saudi Arabia, Sept. 14, 2023 /CNW/ -- Delegates at the opening day of the inaugural AlUla World Archaeology Summit heard that archaeology has immense power to shape cultural identity and shared human experience  while archaeologists must also seek greater interconnection and avoid cultural bias. Organised by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), the summit has drawn over 300 delegates from 39 countries to AlUla in north-west Saudi Arabia for two days of wide-ranging discussions on archaeology's role in stewarding heritage toward the enactment of meaningful change for society. "Archaeologists should think of their own identities as well as those of the sites they are excavating or studying," Dr Khaled Melliti, an historian and researcher with France's National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), said during a panel discussion. "Every [era of] archaeology is a contemporary archaeology," concurred Prof. Emanuelle Papi, director of the Italian School of Archaeology at Athens, in which people see the past "with the eyes of their own time." For example, he noted, there was a time in Italy when the glories of Rome's Imperial era were at the foundation of national identity. But in excavating Roman ruins, he said, archaeologists of that time would run roughshod over relics from the Middle Ages, Byzantine and Renaissance eras. Similarly, Dr. Melliti noted that since Tunisia's return to popular rule following the uprising of 2010-11, the perception of the country's archaeological heritage has altered accordingly. In the aftermath of the uprising, he said, "We have discovered the existence of a republic beneath the Tunisian soil." Their comments reflected the ambition of the summit to generate new discussions that move beyond the specialist mindset and follow paths that connect archaeology to wider communities. Indeed greater connection with local communities was cited as one way for archaeologists to avoid imposing their own worldviews on heritage. For example Lucy Semaan, the Lebanon-based lead maritime archaeologist from the Honor Frost Foundation, said that while exploring an underwater site she will speak to local fishermen to learn where they fish and whatnames they use for various aquatic zones. This can prove useful in providing insights that connect the past to the present, she said.



And Prof. Robert Hoyland, professor of Late Antique and Early Islamic Middle Eastern History at New York University, told the story of his first working expedition as an archaeologist, in Syria. At one point he went into a shop and told the shopkeeper that he was excavating a Roman town. "No," she corrected him, "you're excavating an Arab town of the Roman period." Earlier in the day, Amr AlMadani, CEO of RCU, welcomed the delegates to AlUla. Alternating between Arabic and English, he noted that RCU's adherence to the principles of sustainable tourism benefits cultural heritage sites.

"Our project isn't about leveraging heritage to attract visitors. It's about leveraging visitors to sustain heritage," he said. The summit continues tomorrow with a focus on resilience and accessibility, complementing the first day's focus on identity and ruinscapes. On Wednesday the summit's guests attended a gala dinner outdoors amid palm groves at the ancient oasis of Daimumah. The adventurer and writer Levison Wood observed in a speech that the summit is a journey of exploration and extends the tradition of other explorers and pioneers in the region, from Ibn Battuta to Gertrude Bell and Lawrence of Arabia. AlUla World Archaeology Summit AlUla's position as a hub of archaeological activity is continuing to expand as RCU hosts the inaugural AlUla World Archaeology Summit taking place from Sept 13-15, 2023. The summit is a platform for advancing archaeology and cultural heritage management in their interface with other disciplines. This gathering of leaders from academia, government, non-government organisations, industry, and young people representing the next generation of archaeologists will not only enrich the archaeological community and help protect shared history but also open up a larger reflection of what and how archaeology, and more broadly cultural heritage, can contribute to transformational changes in society. For more on the summit, go to https://www.worldarchaeologysummit.com Contact information For media enquiries, please contact [email protected] About the Royal Commission for AlUla The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) was established by royal decree in July 2017 to preserve and develop AlUla, a region of outstanding natural and cultural significance in north-west Saudi Arabia. RCU's long-term plan outlines a responsible, sustainable, and sensitive approach to urban and economic development that preserves the area's natural and historic heritage while establishing AlUla as a desirable location to live, work, and visit. This encompasses a broad range of initiatives across archaeology, tourism, culture, education, and the arts, reflecting a commitment to meeting the economic diversification, local community empowerment, and heritage preservation priorities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 programme. Contact: Jinith Joy, [email protected]; +971 50 721 9369 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211286/Day_1.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211288/Day_1_Summit.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211289/AlUla_Summit.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2211290/World_Archaeology_Summit.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/first-alula-world-archaeology-summit-gathers-over-300-delegates-from-39-countries-for-wide-ranging-discussion-of-archaeologys-role-in-society-301928220.html SOURCE Royal Commission for AlUla

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] FIT Fashion Design MFA Class of 2023 Graduate Collections Presented During New York Fashion Week Tweet

NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Fashion Institute of Technology's (FIT) Fashion Design MFA Class of 2023 presented UNI / VERSAL, a runway show featuring their graduate collections, at Spring Studios during New York Fashion Week. The show debuted 112 looks, with 14 students each presenting an eight-look collection developed prior to their graduation, which took place in May. View the show on the U NI / VERSAL website, fitnyc.edu/universal. UNI / VERSAL celebrated the limitless creativity, drive, and spirit of the designers as they prepared to launch their careers and help define the future of the fashion industry. Representing four continents, the designers featured in UNI / VERSAL were as follows: Morgan Cardwell, Vasundhra Dhamija, Kaylie Haueisen, Youna Jin, Kuai Li, Yitong Lui, Anthony Oyer, Lilach Porges, Catherine Ziyue Tang, Xinyue Maggie Tao, Valeria Watson, Tom Zhendong Wen, Deborah Won, and Luna Zining Ye. Together, the designers developed an artist/creative statement in support of their work: We believe that what sets our class apart is the diversity we represent in our various backgrounds, styles, and concepts. Yet despite this breadth, we support each other as a unified body. When naming our collective show, we wanted to find a title that represented this symbiosis of people and passions. We decided that the theme UNI/VERSAL ("uni," derived from the Latin word "unus" meaning "one," and "versal," an archaic tem for "entire" or "whole") best represents our individuality as well as our cohesiveness. Each of us has a unique creative universe that brings inspiration to all of us. Each collection that you see today is derived from these spaces of self-exploration.



"Presenting the work of our emerging designers during New York Fashion Week was truly inspiring," said FIT President Joyce F. Brown. "The opportunity to showcase the collections by these talented alums to industry professionals, friends and supporters is invaluable as they begin their careers. I look forward with great pride to the creative success they will surely achieve." "I am so proud of this class's resilience, determination, and unconventional creativity in their storytelling," said Dr. Brooke Carlson, interim dean of FIT's School of Graduate Studies. "This cohort began their studies with COVID-19 still strong and masking required. They graduated with COVID no longer at the epicenter of their lives. As evidenced by their work, it's clear that they felt unrestrained and well-prepared to succeed in the fashion business, no matter what paths they choose to take."

"Throughout their two years in the program, these talented 2023 graduates have been guided by a gifted and experienced faculty of creatives and industry professionals that includes award-winning fashion designer and threeASFOUR co-founder Gabi Asfour, among others," said Cathleen Sheehan, chairperson and professor, Fashion Design MFA program. "We've all been impressed by their collaborative spirit and commitment as students and look forward to the positive impact they'll make as emerging fashion designers." Models' makeup was provided by New York Makeup Academy; hair was provided by R + Co. About the Fashion Design MFA Program at FIT FIT's Master of Fine Arts in Fashion Design degree program is a creative laboratory where technology, talent, and inspiration intersect in one of the world's premier fashion capitals. The relentless pace of the fashion system can hinder innovation. At FIT, we slow it down to make room for experimentation, reflection, and artistic growth, and provide insight and education on urgent social issues impacting the fashion landscape. Students graduate with a thesis collection that is uniquely their own. About the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) A part of the State University of New York (SUNY), FIT has been a leader in career education in art, design, business, and technology throughout its history. Providing over 8,000 students with an uncommon blend of hands-on, practical experience, theory, and a firm grounding in the liberal arts, the college offers a wide range of affordable programs that foster innovation and collaboration. Its distinctive curriculum is geared to today's rapidly growing creative economy, including fields such as computer animation, toy design, production management, film and media, and cosmetics and fragrance marketing. Internationally renowned, FIT draws on its New York City location to provide a vibrant, creative community in which to learn. The college offers nearly 50 majors and grants AAS, BFA, BS, MA, MFA, and MPS degrees, preparing students for professional success and leadership in the new creative economy. Among notable alumni in fashion are Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Norma Kamali, Reem Acra, Brian Atwood, Stephen Burrows, Dennis Basso, Daniel Roseberry, Francisco Costa, Nanette Lepore, Bibhu Mohapatra, Ralph Rucci, John Bartlett, Peter Do, and Michelle Smith. Other prominent graduates include Leslie Blodgett, creator of bareMinerals; international restaurant designer Tony Chi; and Nina Garcia, editor-in-chief of ELLE. fitnyc.edu About the School of Graduate Studies The School of Graduate Studies at FIT provides advanced professional education in seven distinctive areas, promoting excellence in the post-baccalaureate study of fashion, business, art, beauty, and design. The school offers programs leading to the MA, MFA, and MPS degrees, and is dedicated to advancing research in the creative industries and fostering innovative collaborations that link students and faculty with industry and professional partners worldwide. Contact

Alexandra K. Mann

[email protected]

(212) 217-4722 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fit-fashion-design-mfa-class-of-2023-graduate-collections-presented-during-new-york-fashion-week-301928380.html SOURCE Fashion Institute of Technology

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] Internet and Cellphone Preparations and Best Practices for Hurricane and Storm Season Tweet

Industry association launches awareness campaign and new website at telecomprepare.ca to help Canadians prepare for extreme weather events OTTAWA, ON, Sept. 14, 2023 /CNW/ - As Atlantic Canadians gear up for possible extreme weather this weekend, the Canadian Telecommunications Association is encouraging them to take steps to prepare for potential power outages and other impacts from storms that can affect their use of telecommunications services. The association is launching an awareness campaign sharing important tips and best practices that should be followed before a storm hits, as well as actions that should be taken during a storm and in its aftermath. "Extreme weather events such as hurricanes, wildfires, and snow and ice storms are becoming more commonplace, endangering Canadians and damaging property," said Canadian Telecommunications Association President and CEO, Robert Ghiz. "While telecommunications providers are continually investing to strengthen their networks to better withstand these types of events, power supply, poles, cables, and other equipment can still be impacted, sometimes affecting network performance or even causing temporary service outages. That is why we are recommending that individuals take the necessary precautions that can help them stay connected when it matters most." Some of the best practices include: Before a storm Monitor the weather and be ready for emergency alerts.

Prepare for power outages by fully charging your devices.

Have backup power supply that can power essential communications equipment like your internet modem, Wi-Fi router, and cordless phone.

Determine if your phone or phone service rely on your home power supply and consider a backup power upply if they do.



During a storm and in the immediate aftermath: Preserve device battery power, such as by reducing the screen brightness and turning off Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and location-based services when you don't need them.

Help reduce network congestion by using SMS/texting or email to connect with others and do not use your mobile phone to make phone calls unless it is an emergency.

If you must make a phone call, keep your conversation as short as possible, and if your call is not connected wait at least 10 seconds before redialing.

Do not use mobile wireless networks for data-intensive uses, like streaming video or non-emergency related internet use. When calling 9-1-1:

If you have a working landline phone and a mobile phone, use the landline phone to help reduce traffic on mobile networks.

Mobile phone service is designed for 9-1-1 calls to default to whatever wireless network is available, so calling 9-1-1 on your mobile phone may still be possible even if your service provider does not have an operational cell tower nearby or your phone does not have a SIM card.

9-1-1 calls may take longer to connect due to increased network congestion following an emergency. If your call is not immediately connected, wait a few seconds to allow your device to make a connection. If your call is not connected, hang up and wait 10 seconds before redialing. Do not immediately redial.

If you are still unable to successfully place a 9-1-1 call, try removing or turning off your device's SIM card. In rare circumstances, the presence of the SIM card may prevent your device from connecting to an alternative service provider's network. Initially targeting Atlantic Canada, the association's awareness campaign will include, print, and online ads running across the Atlantic provinces over the next four weeks, as well as the launch of a new website dedicated to sharing best practices. For more information, visit telecomprepare.ca Additional Resources: Preparing for Severe Weather Events & Other Emergencies

Responding to Extreme Weather and other Natural Disasters About the Canadian Telecommunications Association The Canadian Telecommunications Association is dedicated to building a better future for Canadians through connectivity. Our members include service providers, equipment manufacturers, and other organizations in the telecommunications ecosystem, that invest in, build, maintain and operate Canada's world-class telecommunications networks. Through our advocacy initiatives, research, and events, we work to promote the importance of telecommunications to Canada's economic growth and social development and advocate for policies that foster investment, innovation, and positive outcomes for consumers. We also facilitate industry initiatives, such as the Mobile Giving Foundation Canada, Canadian Common Short Codes, STAC and wirelessaccessibility.ca SOURCE Canadian Telecommunications Association

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
Former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump looks on at a South Dakota Republican Party rally in Rapid City, South Dakota, on September 8, 2023.

New Hampshires top election official said Wednesday he will not invoke an amendment to the U.S. Constitution to block former President Donald Trump from appearing on ballots in the state, which will hold the first Republican presidential primary next year.

As long as he submits his declaration of candidacy and signs it under the penalties of perjury and pays the $1,000 filing fee, his name will appear on the presidential primary ballot, Secretary of State David Scanlan said in a press conference he called to address various legal efforts to bar Trump from the 2024 race.

Under New Hampshire law, the name of anyone who pays the filing fee and swears they meet the age, citizenship and residency requirements shall be printed on the ballots. That language is not discretionary, said Scanlan, a Republican elected by the Legislature with bipartisan support in 2022 after serving two decades as deputy secretary of state.

Scanlan rejected claims made in lawsuits filed in New Hampshire and elsewhere that Trump is ineligible to run for the White House again under a rarely used clause under the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits those who engaged in an insurrection or rebellion against the Constitution from holding higher office. While other election officials have said they are looking for guidance from the courts on how to interpret the clause, Scanlan said it doesnt pertain to running for office.

In a situation where some states permit a name to appear on the ballot and other states disqualify it, chaos, confusion, anger, and frustration will be the result, he said. At a time when we need to ensure transparency and build confidence among voters around the country, the delegate selection process should not be the battleground to test this constitutional question.

The Civil War-era clause prohibits anyone who swore an oath to uphold the Constitution  and then broke it  from holding office. The provision is nestled at the end of the 14th Amendment, which has been the foundation of civil rights litigation, and doesnt explicitly mention the presidency but does cite presidential electors.

It has been used only a couple of times since Congress rescinded the measures ban on former Confederates in 1872. But the clause received renewed attention after the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by supporters of Trump who were seeking to halt certification of the 2020 election results.

The liberal group Free Speech For People, which sued to bar Trump from the ballot in Minnesota on Tuesday, asked in 2021 that all 50 states keep the former president off the 2024 ballot. Those demands have drawn more attention as voting in the Republican presidential primary draws nearer, and an increasing number of legal scholars argue that the 14th Amendment may actually prohibit Trump from running again.

Scattered lawsuits have been filed making that claim, usually by relatively obscure political personalities representing themselves, such as in Maine and New Hampshire. In both states, a longshot Republican presidential hopeful who lives in Texas has filed the lawsuit. But the first wave of significant litigation began last week when a prominent liberal group sued to keep the former president off the Colorado ballot. The Trump campaign briefly moved the case from Colorado court to federal court, but on Tuesday it returned to state court.

The issue will likely only be resolved by the U.S. Supreme Court, which has never ruled on the clause.

Most Secretaries of State have balked at the idea of striking a presidential candidate on their own. Minnesota Secretary of State Scott Simon, a Democrat, said in a statement last week that his office cant take such action on its own and could only do so if compelled by courts.

The Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State does not have legal authority to investigate a candidates eligibility for office, Simon said days before the lawsuit filed by Free Speech For People to declare Trump ineligible.

Scanlans announcement, backed up by a legal analysis from the state attorney general, came a day after the Trump campaign sent him a letter signed by dozens of Republican state lawmakers urging him to reject what they called an absurd conspiracy theory. The states Attorney General John Formella said Scanlan does not have authority under state law to block a candidate from the ballot on grounds that they may be disqualified under the amendment.

New Hampshire law does give Scanlan sole authority to schedule the primary. He hasnt done that yet, but on Wednesday announced that candidates can sign up between Oct. 11 and Oct. 27.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
[September 14, 2023] NIIT MTS Announces the First Implementation of Xsel Learning Platform with CENTURY 21 Heritage Group Tweet

TORONTO, Sept. 14, 2023 /CNW/ -- NIIT Learning Solutions (Canada) Limited (NIIT Canada), a wholly owned subsidiary of NIIT Learning Systems Limited [NIIT Managed Training Services (NIIT MTS)], a global leader in learning solutions and services, announced the successful implementation of its cutting-edge Xsel Learning platform in collaboration with CENTURY 21 Heritage Group. The launch of Xsel marks a significant advancement in real estate education pedagogy and technology, bringing revolutionary digital learning solutions to the CENTURY 21 Heritage Group. CENTURY 21 Heritage Group, renownd for its dedication to real estate learning, has chosen NIIT MTS' Xsel Learning platform to empower its workforce and elevate their professional development. The integration of the Xsel Learning platform will enhance the organization's capabilities and amplify its impact on continuous learning for its agents.



Alex Orlando, Vice President, Business Development, NIIT MTS said, "We are thrilled to have joined forces with CENTURY 21 Heritage Group to revolutionize the real estate learning experience. Their contributions to refine our platform have been invaluable as we shape the future of real estate learning, together. We are confident that the Xsel platform will modernize the approach to learning at real estate brokerages with elevated experiences that not only promote learning in the flow of work but also deliver significant performance improvement." The Xsel Learning platform is a state-of-the-art digital learning solution designed to transform the way organizations acquire and develop talent. Drawing from NIIT MTS' vast experience in providing transformative learning experiences, Xsel offers a comprehensive suite of tools and resources to enhance skills, knowledge, and performance. Its engaging and interactive modules enable learners to acquire new competencies, upskill, and reskill, ensuring they remain relevant in an ever-evolving landscape.

"It was our pleasure to work with NIIT MTS in enhancing the user experience for the first platform of its kind," said Eryn Richardson, Managing Partner at CENTURY 21 Heritage Group. The implementation of the Xsel Learning platform with CENTURY 21 Heritage Group marks the beginning of a long-term successful collaboration that will unlock new opportunities for both organizations. NIIT MTS remains dedicated to empowering organizations across sectors with innovative learning solutions that drive success in the digital age. For more information about Xsel, visit www.xsel.app About CENTURY 21 Heritage Group:

Founded in 1988, Century 21 Heritage Group Ltd. is one of the largest Century 21 brokerages in the world*. The company serves thousands of clients annually in Southern Ontario through eight main offices. The company has been investing heavily in technology and online training to support REALTORS for a great real estate experience. The company is actively engaged in supporting Easter Seals and the Kids to Camp program through local fundraising events and programs. About NIIT Managed Training Services (NIIT MTS)

NIIT Learning Systems Limited [NIIT Managed Training Services (NIIT MTS)] offers Managed Training Services to market-leading companies across 30 countries. Trusted by the world's leading companies, NIIT MTS provides high-impact managed learning solutions that weave together the best of learning theory, technology, operations, and services to enable a thriving workforce. The NIIT MTS comprehensive suite of Managed Training Services includes Custom Content and Curriculum Design, Learning Delivery, Learning Administration, Strategic Sourcing, Learning Technology, and L&D consulting services. With a Net Promoter Score of 9 on 10 and a 100% renewal rate, NIIT MTS helps leading companies transform their learning ecosystems while increasing the business value and impact of learning. SOURCE NIIT Learning Solutions Canada Limited

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] Sernova Investor Conference Call Previously Scheduled for September 15 Now Rescheduled for September 22 Tweet

LONDON, Ontario and WINDHAM COUNTY, Conn., Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sernova Corp. (TSX:SVA) (OTCQB:SEOVF) (FSE/XETRA:PSH), a clinical-stage company and leader in cell therapeutics, today announced it has rescheduled the investor and analyst conference call previously scheduled for September 15 at 10 a.m. Eastern Time. The call will now occur on September 22 at 10 a.m. Eastern Time. The business strategy and update call remains as scheduled for October 5, 2023.

This call will introduce the newly appointed CEO, Cynthia Pussinen, as well as the recently appointed Chief Business Officer, Dr. Modestus Obochi, Ph.D., MBA, and will discuss the overall vision of both executives to deliver novel medical therapies to patients. CEO Introduction:

Date: Friday, September 22, 2023

Time: 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time

Dial-In: 1-877-704-4453

Conference ID: 13741199

Webcast Link: https://viavid.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1634340&tp_key=29a41cab17 ABOUT SERNOVA CORP. AND THE CELL POUCH SYSTEM PLATFORM FOR CELL THERAPY Sernova Corp. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that is developing therapeutic cell technologies for chronic diseases, including insulin-dependent diabetes, thyroid disease, and blood disorders that include hemophilia A. Sernova is currently focused on developing a functional cure for insulin-dependent diabetes with its lead asset, the Cell Pouch System, a novel implantable and scalable medical device with immune protected therapeutic cells. On implantation, The Cell Pouch forms a natural vascularized tissue environment in the body for long-term survival and function of therapeutic cells that release essential factors that are absent or deficient in the bodies of patients with certain chronic diseases. Sernovas Cell Pouch System has demonstrated its potential to be a functional cure for people with T1D in an ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical study at the University of Chicago. Sernova is also advancing a proprietary technology i collaboration with the University of Miami to shield therapeutic cells from immune system attack with the goal to eliminate the need for chronic, systemic immunosuppression. In May 2022, Sernova and Evotec entered into a global strategic partnership to develop an implantable off-the-shelf iPSC (induced pluripotent stem cells) based islet replacement therapy. This partnership provides Sernova a potentially unlimited supply of insulin-producing cells to treat millions of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1 and type 2). Sernova continues to progress two additional development programs that utilize its Cell Pouch System: a cell therapy for hypothyroid disease resulting from thyroid gland removal and an ex vivo lentiviral Factor VIII gene therapy for hemophilia A.



FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Corporate: Investors: Media: Christopher Barnes

VP, Investor Relations

Sernova Corp.

[email protected]

Tel: 519-902-7923

www.sernova.com Corey Davis, Ph.D.

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

[email protected]

Tel: 212-915-2577

Hannah Holmquist

LifeSci Communications

[email protected]

Tel: 619-723-4326



FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This release contains statements that, to the extent they are not recitations of historical facts, may constitute forward-looking statements that involve various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, without limitation, statements regarding the prospects, plans, and objectives of the company. Wherever possible, but not always, words such as "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential for" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur are used to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect managements beliefs with respect to future events and are based on information currently available to management on the date such statements were made. Many factors could cause Sernovas actual results, performances or achievements to not be as anticipated, estimated or intended or to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such factors could include, but are not limited to, the companys ability to secure additional financing and licensing arrangements on reasonable terms, or at all; ability to conduct all required preclinical and clinical studies for the companys Cell Pouch System and or related technologies, including the timing and results of those trials; ability to obtain all necessary regulatory approvals, or on a timely basis; ability to in-license additional complementary technologies; ability to execute its business strategy and successfully compete in the market; and the inherent risks associated with the development of biotechnology combination products generally. Many of the factors are beyond our control, including those caused by, related to, or impacted by the novel coronavirus pandemic. Investors should consult the companys quarterly and annual filings available on www.sedar.com for additional information on risks and uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statements. Sernova expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.



[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] U.S. Dept. of Education Names PROPEL President Dr. Lisa N. Herring Strategic Advisor to the Secretary Tweet

ATLANTA, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PROPEL Center today announced that the U.S. Department of Education has named its President, Dr. Lisa N. Herring, as Strategic Advisor to the Secretary. Herring, who officially begins her tenure with PROPEL on Monday, September 18th, will help shape the USDOE's strategy to engage state and local officials. "I am delighted to have Dr. Lisa Herring join us at the Department of Education, a leader whose decades of experience as a teacher and administrator will be a tremendous asset to the Biden-Harris team. As strategic advisor, Dr. Herring will draw upon a professional career that has spanned both rural and urban communities, and teaching in both public and private schools to deepen our relationships and collaboration with state and local education leaders. Dr. Herring shares our commitment to accelerating academic recovery in our schools and empowering educators to help students of all backgrounds to find their purpose and fulfill their potential. I look forward to working with her to raise the bar in education for all students," said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. As the incoming president of the PROPEL Center, Dr. Herring is singularly enthused by the distinctive appointment, and the many potential ways in which the strategic role with the USDOE aligns with and complements her important work with PROPEL on behalf of America's Historically Black Collees and Universities (HBCUs) and their students. "I am honored to serve in this capacity to help impact and influence education across both the K-12 and Postsecondary spectrum communities," Herring states. "I am incredibly eager to lead and work together to forge innovative, creative and student focused opportunities for scholars across our country through this collective work."



The PROPEL Center is a first-of-its kind innovation and learning hub for the HBCU community, supported by founding partners Apple and Southern Company. PROPEL will serve as a catalytic epicenter of instruction, providing students with the knowledge, skills, tools and resources necessary to transform the nation's talent pipeline and workforce. Propel also recently launched PROPEL Learn, a student-focused app designed to revolutionize the way HBCU students prepare for future job success. Dr. Herring most recently served as superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools, and the Birmingham City Schools in Alabama; chief academic officer for Jefferson County Public Schools in Louisville, Kentucky; and deputy superintendent of academics for the Charleston County School District in South Carolina. She additionally served in leadership positions in DeKalb County Schools (GA), Macon, GA and private schools in Pittsburgh, PA. In several of her previous roles, Dr. Herring established national models geared at creating long-term student achievement and expanded career pathways through noted corporate and community partnerships.

Throughout her 20-plus years in K-12 education, Dr. Herring has embraced the ideas of service and community through her many activities aimed at inspiring young scholars, empowering educational leaders and improving outcomes for students nationwide. Dr. Herring received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Spelman College, master and specialist degrees from the University of South Carolina, leadership certification from the University of Georgia and her doctorate from Georgia Southern University. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. About PROPEL

Supported by founding partners Apple and Southern Company, PROPEL is a firstofitskind innovation and learning hub for the entire HBCU community that will serve as a catalytic epicenter of instruction, providing students with the knowledge, skills, tools and resources necessary to transform the nation's talent pipeline and workforce. Last month, PROPEL launched PROPEL Learn, a student-focused app designed to revolutionize the way HBCU students prepare for future job success. PROPEL Learn provides culturally-responsive content, curriculum and tech-focused micro-credentials that are co-developed by industry experts, distinguished HBCU faculty, and notable workforce collaborators. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/us-dept-of-education-names-propel-president-dr-lisa-n-herring-strategic-advisor-to-the-secretary-301928505.html SOURCE PropelCenter.org

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[September 14, 2023] Wander.com partners with Bryte to offer guests the ultimate smart mattresses for restorative sleep Tweet

Luxury vacation rental company will incorporate smart mattresses into their properties. AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wander.com , the only network of luxury vacation rentals built for the future of life and work, today announced a new partnership with Bryte, the leading restorative sleep technology platform powered by AI. Guests staying in Wander properties will now have the opportunity to experience the ultimate in rest and relaxation with Bryte's state-of-the-art mattresses. In less than two years since its launch, Wander has become renowned for its exclusive selection of luxury vacation rental homes that offer discerning travelers unparalleled comfort, style, and access to breathtaking natural surroundings. Bryte, the maker of the first science-based, purpose-built sleep experience, was founded to solve the modern crisis of sleep. Their Bryte Balance smart mattress is integrated with purposeful, connected technology to unlock restorative sleep. Fall asleep faster with Somnify, a library of sleep content that syncs gentle motion in the mattress with curated audio. Wakeless often with Bryte Balancing technology to help you fall asleep faster, wake less often, and personalize your comfort.



Wander and Bryte share the vision of providing travelers unparalleled comfort and memorable experiences. This partnership represents a commitment to delivering on that vision, ensuring guests can enjoy their travels to the fullest, even when away from home. "Our mission at Wander is to help people find their happy place," said Rachel Entwistle, Director of Guest Experience at Wander. "We're excited to add Bryte to our incredible cohort of brand partners and bring their cutting-edge sleep technology to our guests."

"We are thrilled to join forces with Wander Luxury Rentals," said Monica Buck, SVP of Customer Success at Bryte. "This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to transform how people sleep while traveling. Together, we aim to redefine luxury in the hospitality industry." To book your unforgettable Wander vacation experience, please visit www.wander.com . About Wander

Wander.com is a network of smart vacation homes in inspiring places that you can control from your phone. Every Wander comes with inspiring views, hotel-grade amenities, modern workstations, top-tier cleaning, and 24/7 concierge service. It's a vacation home, but better. Wander has raised $30M+ in funding from QED Investors, Redpoint Ventures, Authentic Ventures, Susa Ventures, Kevin Durant, Packy McCormick, Sahil Bloom, Todd & Rahul's Angel Fund, and many more top angels and operators to build the travel experience of the future. Learn more at www.wander.com . About Bryte

Bryte is a leading innovator in sleep technology, creating smart mattresses that harness the power of technology to provide individuals with the best possible sleep experience by actively sensing and removing pressure points, allowing for personalized firmness, and providing calming sensory experiences to help you easily drift to sleep, unlocking restorative sleep. Contact:

Micaela Koremblit

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/wandercom-partners-with-bryte-to-offer-guests-the-ultimate-smart-mattresses-for-restorative-sleep-301928570.html SOURCE Wander

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
It was a ceremony of historical proportions, given that it was the first to take place in the new St. Nicholas Church on the day of the sad anniversary, acquiring a special symbolism

In an emotionally charged atmosphere, a memorial service was held at the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine in Lower Manhattan for the victims of the terrorist attacks of September 11 on the occasion of the 22nd dark anniversary of the horrific events of 2001.

It was a ceremony of historical proportions, given that it was the first to take place in the new St. Nicholas Church on the day of the sad anniversary, acquiring a special symbolism.

Present, among others, was the president of the organization Friends of St. Nicholas Michael Psaros, Fr. Nektarios Papazafiropoulos, Chancellor of the Archdiocese of America, the St. Nicholas parishs pastor, Fr. Andreas Vithoulkas, and Fr. John Lardas.

In the first row were seated the family members of John Katsimatides and Danielle Kousoulis, two of the Greek-American September 11 victims, although the prayers were for all those thousands of people who tragically lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

Metropolitan Apostolos of New Jersey, who presided over the memorial service, described the victims of September 11 as martyrs of the Church and holy people.

Thousands of innocent people were killed. It cannot be forgotten, the Metropolitan said, continuing, you cant forget these people. From my point of view, these people, who died on 11 September 2001, are saints. We honor the memory of these holy people. I remember being in Greece and seeing these pictures on TV, we couldnt believe it I was in Greece, and I was supposed to travel to America in October. It was something we couldnt believe. We thought it was a movie. My mother then said to me, Where are you going to America now, cant you see whats happening? But I couldnt come. For me, these people are witnesses of the Church.

Read more at thenationalherald.com

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons License: CC-BY-SA Copyright: ajay_suresh
Police have released an image in an effort to identify a suspect in a slashing in east-end Toronto's Danforth neighbourhood.

Toronto police said two men were in an altercation, during which one of them was allegedly slashed in the face with an "unknown weapon," near Coxwell Avenue and Strathmore Boulevard at around 10 p.m. on Wednesday.

"The victim was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries," police said in a Thursday afternoon news release, in which an image of a suspect was released.

The suspect is about six feet tall with black medium-length hair and a skinny build. He was wearing a beige trench coat, black pants and a black tuque.

Anyone with information is asked to call 55 Division at 416-808-5500 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
As enraptured bystanders along different swaths of the Champs-Elysees in Paris in the summer of 1867, 13-year-old expat Americans Jennie Jerome and Sara Delano watched with their families as the celebrated and stylish Empress Eugenie rode in the royal carriage, a glorious asset to her husband Napoleon III.

In a fiercely patriarchal society, the empress was proof that a woman could use her intelligence to influence her world. Decades later, the two women, using different strategies and known as Lady Randolph Churchill and Mrs. James Roosevelt, would do just that to secure the political futures of their sons.

Award-winning nonfiction writer Charlotte Gray decided to write a dual biography of the mothers of Winston Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt, Passionate Mothers, Powerful Sons: The Lives of Jennie Jerome Churchill and Sara Delano Roosevelt, when her long-time editor Phyllis Bruce pointed out that the two women were born in 1854 within 100 kilometres of each other in New York state.

Gray, speaking to the Star recently by phone, described her reaction. It was such an intriguing coincidence. And, though they were raised with similar assumptions about the ways their lives should and would unfold, they behaved in total contrast.

Gray said her first attempts to get to know the women were through biographies of their sons, but she soon realized that the male biographers of the great men of history like their subjects to be fully formed, so their mothers actually get pretty short shrift.

While both women had forceful personalities  deciding what they wanted and making every effort to get it  Jennie used her charisma, while Sara used her wealth. Both women came from rich East Coast families, were educated abroad, fluent in French (enhanced, no doubt, by their sojourns in Paris), were courted by suitable men, chose their husbands, gave birth, raised their sons and thrived after early widowhood.

Churchill and Roosevelt scholarship is robust. There are plenty of published biographies and collections of letters that Gray said she consulted as she began her research during the COVID pandemic lockdown, when access to primary sources on site in archives was prohibited, one of the frustrations of writing the book. One of the great pleasures of biography is the treasure hunt in archives. When you come across a mention in other peoples papers, its absolutely thrilling, she said.

She was able, later, to get to Churchill College, Cambridge, and work with the head of archives there, Allen Packwood, where she hoped to find proof that Jennie Jerome and Sara Delano had crossed paths in Paris as teenage girls.

Both families were living in Paris at the same time and it was a very small expatriate community, so I just knew that they would have been in the same room at various places, I just never found evidence, said Gray.

She wasnt the first person hoping to find such evidence. Packwood told her that Winston himself scoured the archives in 1940 and couldnt find anything. Churchill needed every possible asset to bring to the table as he tried then to woo Franklin into entering the war, Gray explained. If hed been able to provide irrefutable information that their mothers had met, it would have been important to FDR.

Nevertheless, Gray was able to go through letters from Jennie, photo albums and Winstons correspondence about his mother, about whom he affectionately wrote, The wine of life was in her veins, gesturing to her charisma. A letter of condolence to Winston from former prime minister Herbert Asquith reinforced her personality: She lived every inch of her life up to the edge.

Gray also visited the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in the Hudson Valley where she said, the super helpful staff got everything out for me. There she was able to scour correspondence and scrapbooks, as well as see Saras diary and the notes she gave her servants, noting it was such a relief to find the material and to see the handwriting, instead of having to rely wholly on secondary sources. What Gray admires about working with local archivists familiar with a collection, is you get to know them and they say, You might just look at   and it leads to something wonderful.

Of the surprises her research delivered, Gray was impressed by what formidable women they were. When Jennie, for example, arranges for a Red Cross hospital ship during the Boer War (1899-1902), Gray felt it shows her great energy and stamina, and I think only an American woman could have done that in this period. A British aristocrat wouldnt have been able to do it. She would have been looking over her shoulder thinking What would people say? Jennie wasnt afraid to ask the foreign secretary for this or that. Shed just do it.

Regarding Sara, Gray was surprised by tracking her movements in the 1920s. She was constantly travelling. She went to Paris every year to stay with her sister, for example. She was a very independent woman who enjoyed spending time in New York and going to the opera.

Later, as Gray started putting the pieces together, I realized when Eleanor (Roosevelt, Franklins wife) was writing about her mother-in-law how each of her memoirs published in subsequent decades was more critical of Sara and skewed the picture. By then Eleanor was successful  with her post-Second World War progressive social justice initiatives and her devotion to the United Nations  and resented the way that she felt Sara kept her dependent.

There were facts that delighted Gray in her research.

Jennie was a terrific wit and remained a confidante of the Prince and Princess of Wales when they became King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra. She was also full of exuberance, which Gray said she passed along to Winston.

Jennies third husband was three years younger than her son. At the time everyone was just shocked and Jennie tossed her head and said, Hes got a great future and Ive had a great past, so between us well do just fine, said Gray. Jennie was a chameleon who absorbed the mores of whatever society she was in. She fit in with a vengeance, Gray said.

As for Sara, that she enjoyed Edith Whartons novels amuses Gray. Sara had met Wharton and knew her by her family nickname, Pussy Jones. And Wharton, Gray said, wrote about the society in which Sara was so comfortable with such a sense of irony and sharp eye for its pretensions. I loved the fact that Sara had an ability to not take herself too seriously.

Gray hopes her book will encourage people to think more about the breadth of womens lives. With her own passion for historical detail she has reclaimed the vibrant, extraordinary ones of Jennie Jerome Churchill and Sara Delano Roosevelt.

Janet Somerville is the author of Yours, for Probably Always: Martha Gellhorns Letters of Love & War 1930-1949, also available in audio, read by Tony Award-winning Ellen Barkin.
Former President Donald Trump is waiving his right to seek a speedy trial in the Georgia case in which he and 18 others are accused of participating in an illegal scheme to overturn his loss in the 2020 presidential election.

Trumps filing is part of the legal maneuvering as Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis seeks to try all 19 defendants together starting next month. Most of the defendants have sought to separate their cases from some or all of the others, with many saying they will not be ready by Oct. 23, when a trial has been set for two defendants who have already filed demands for a speedy trial. The judge has expressed skepticism that all defendants could go to trial that day.

Trumps latest move is in line with efforts the early front-runner for the Republican presidential nomination has taken in his other cases to delay proceedings while he seeks a return to the White House in the 2024 election. He is facing prosecution in a state case in New York, as well as federal cases in Washington and Florida.

The waiver of a speedy trial was filed Tuesday on the heels of a brief filed by Willis office arguing that all the defendants should be tried together because of efficiency and fairness issues. Prosecutors said holding several lengthy trials instead of one beginning on Oct. 23 would create an enormous strain on the judicial resources of the court and would favor the defendants tried later, who would have the advantage of seeing the states evidence and arguments ahead of time.

According to Georgia law, any defendant who files a demand for a speedy trial has a right to have a trial begin within the court term when the demand is filed or in the next court term. Court terms in Fulton County are two months long and begin the first Mondays in January, March, May, July, September and November.

The Georgia indictment against Trump and the others was filed in the court term that ended earlier this month. Lawyers Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro filed their speedy trial demands before the end of that court term, meaning a trial would have to start before the end of the current court term in early November. The judge has set it to begin Oct. 23.

Prosecutors had noted in their Tuesday brief that while many of the defendants have filed motions to separate their cases from the others, they had not waived their right to demand a speedy trial. They raised concerns that could result in several trials in the high-profile case happening simultaneously.

Meanwhile, five of the defendants are currently seeking to have their cases heard in federal court rather than in state court. They include Trump White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, who argued that his actions alleged in the indictment were taken within the scope of his duties as a federal official.

U.S. District Judge Steve Jones last week rejected Meadows arguments and sent his case back to Fulton County Superior Court. Meadows has appealed Jones ruling to the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. He asked Jones to put his ruling on hold while that appeal is pending, but Jones on Tuesday issued an order denying that request. Meadows still has a similar request for a hold pending before the appeals court.

The other four defendants who are seeking to move their cases to federal court  former U.S. Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark and three fake electors  have hearings before Jones scheduled for next week.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney said Wednesday that he will not run for reelection in 2024, creating a wide-open contest in a state that heavily favors Republicans and is expected to attract a crowded field. Romney, a former presidential candidate and governor of Massachusetts, made the announcement in a video statement. The 76-year-old said the country is ready for new leadership. Frankly, its time for a new generation of leaders, he said. Theyre the ones that need to make the decisions that will shape the world they will be living in.

Romney noted that he would be in his mid-80s at the end of another six-year Senate term. While he didnt directly reference the ages of President Joe Biden, 80, or former President Donald Trump, 77, who are the leaders for their parties 2024 presidential nominations, he accused both men of not responding enough to the growing national debt, climate change and other long-term issues.

He is the sixth incumbent senator to announce plans to retire after the end of the term in 2025, joining Republican Mike Braun of Indiana and Democrats Tom Carper of Delaware, Ben Cardin of Maryland, Dianne Feinstein of California and Debbie Stabenow of Michigan.

Romney easily won election in reliably GOP Utah in 2018 but was expected to face more resistance from his own party after he emerged as one of the most visible members to break with Trump, who is still the partys de-facto leader.

Romney in 2020 became the first senator in U.S. history to vote to convict a president from their own party in an impeachment trial. Romney was the only Republican to vote against Trump in his first impeachment, and one of seven to vote to convict him in the second.

Trump was acquitted by the Senate both times.

Romney was booed by a gathering of the Utah Republican Partys most active members months after his vote at the second impeachment trial, and a measure to censure him narrowly failed. Members of the party even flung the term Mitt Romney Republican at their opponents on the campaign trail in 2022s midterm elections.

Still, Romney has been seen as broadly popular in Utah, which has long harbored a band of the party thats favored civil conservatism and resisted Trumps brash and norm-busting style of politics.

The state is home to the anti-Trump Lincoln Project; the anti-Trump Republican Evan McMullin, who launched a longshot 2016 presidential campaign; and GOP Gov. Spencer Cox, who has been critical of Trump and is also up for reelection in 2024.

More than a majority of the states population are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The faith arrived in the western state with pioneers fleeing religious persecution and spread globally with the religions missionaries, a legacy thats left the churchs conservative members embracing immigrants and refugees.

Romney, a Brigham Young University graduate and one of the faiths most visible members after his 2012 presidential campaign, had been a popular figure in the state for two decades. He burnished his reputation there by turning around the bribery scandal-plagued 2002 Winter Olympics in Utah, making it a global showcase for Salt Lake City.

The wealthy former private equity executive served as governor of Massachusetts from 2003 to 2007. In 2006, Romney signed a health care law in Massachusetts that had some of the same core features as the 2010 federal health care law signed by President Barack Obama, who would go on to defeat Romney in the 2012 White House election.

During his presidential campaign, Romney struggled to shake the perception that he was out of touch with regular Americans. The image crystallized with his comment, secretly recorded at a fundraiser, that he didnt worry about winning the votes of 47% of Americans who believe they are victims and pay no income tax.

He moved to Utah after his defeat for the presidency.

In 2016, he made his first extraordinary break with Trump, delivering a scathing speech in Utah denouncing Trump, then a presidential candidate, as a phony, a fraud and who was unfit to be president.

After Trump won, Romney dined with Trump to discuss Romney becoming the president-elects secretary of state. Trump chose ExxonMobil CEO Rex Tillerson instead.

Romney accepted Trumps endorsement during the primary race for his 2018 Senate run but also pledged in an op-ed that year that he would continue to speak out when the president says or does something which is divisive, racist, sexist, anti-immigrant, dishonest or destructive to democratic institutions.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
By Jeff Murphy, September 14, 2023





WARRENSBURG, MO  University of Central Missouri alumni who are considering returning to their alma mater to pursue a masters degree will discover the application process easier than ever, thanks to the new Mule Express program.



Launched Sept. 1, this new initiative will make the application process much more seamless and expedient for UCMs valued alumni, including current students, who may continue on their higher education journey at UCM. Through Mule Express, a student can expect to reap a range of benefits that will not only put cash back in their pockets but help make their transition into a graduate program as simple as possible.



The Mule Express program offers the following to help accommodate alumni pursuing a masters degree:



 No application fee: UCM is waiving the application fee for all university alumni and currently enrolled undergraduate students in an effort to make earning a graduate degree intellectually and financially rewarding.



 Transcript simplification: UCM students need not worry about resubmitting transcripts they have already provided during their time here, unless they have attended another institution since graduating from UCM. This streamlined approach recognizes a university alumnus prior commitment to UCM and saves them time.



 Expedited application review: UCM understands just how valuable time is for our alumni. With "Mule Express," applications from alumni and current students will receive expedited reviews, ensuring that they can swiftly move forward with their educational aspirations.



Mule Express applies to domestic students applying for a graduate certificate program, a masters degree, or an Educational Specialist degree. Individuals who want to apply for admission or simply learn more about the Mule Express initiative are encouraged to contact UCM Graduate Studies at gradadmit@ucmo.edu or ucmo.edu/apply.
Ukraine's defense forces are advancing in the Bakhmut sector.

Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, said this in a post on the Telegram messaging app, Ukrinform reports.

Syrskyi also released a video showing the joint work of air reconnaissance and artillery of the Ukrainian defense forces against enemy infantry near Klishchiivka, Donetsk region.

There, air intelligence officers with the 22nd Mechanized Brigade adjusted the artillery fire of friendly units on a group of Russian troops. At least one invader was killed by a shot from a grenade launcher.

Photo: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine
Russias large amphibious assault ship Rostov on Don and a submarine hit by Ukrainian missiles while undergoing repairs at the Sevastopol shipyard will never be put back to service.

Thats according to the spokesman for Ukraines military intelligence, Andriy Yusov, who spoke at the national telethon, Ukrinform reports.

"Significant damage has been inflicted and we can now say that the vessels are most likely not recoverable. Yes, today theres good news - the destruction of the large enemy landing ship "Rostov on Don" (project 775), as well as the Kalibr-carrying submarine, which is very important. Of course, this is good news for the Ukrainian security and defense forces, for Ukrainian citizens. And today, many Crimeans openly and sincerely rejoiced when they heard such sounds of explosions because they understood that the demilitarization of Crimea to clear the peninsula of the Russian invaders is ongoing," Yusov said.

As reported, powerful explosions rang out in the temporarily occupied Sevastopol overnight Wednesday. Russias defense ministry confirmed a cruise missile attack on a ship repair plant, as a result of which two vessels were damaged. According to OSINT analysts, a Ropucha-class large landing ship ship and a Kilo-class submarine were hit in the strike.
A federal judge has declared illegal a revised version of the DACA program, which protects hundreds of thousands of immigrants who arrived irregularly as children in the United States. The decision of the judge, from the southern circuit of Texas, does not affect people already enrolled in the program, but it does prevent new applicants from registering and deals a serious blow to the administration of President Joe Biden.

The Democratic government had introduced this revised version last year precisely to preserve and strengthen Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, and prevent Republicans  who are highly critical of the measure  from eliminating that program, which was launched in 2012, during the Obama administration (2009-2016).

Nine states governed by the Republican Party, including Texas, sued to block the provision. They argued that Barack Obama's government did not have the authority to implement the program because it did not submit it to Congress for approval.

In 2021, Judge Andrew Hanen determined that DACA was illegal because it had violated the Administrative Procedure Act, which requires a notice period during which the public can submit comments on the new rule. The Biden administration approved the new version of DACA last year, which did include a period for public comments.

But in January, nine states  Texas, Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Nebraska, South Carolina, West Virginia, Kansas and Mississippi  filed a new lawsuit against the measure. Hanen, who was appointed to his position in 2002 by then-president George W. Bush, ruled Wednesday that the DACA program remains illegal and that the power to approve legislation that protects immigrants who arrived as children corresponds to Congress, not the government.

According to data from the Citizenship and Immigration Services, at the end of March, 578,680 immigrants were enrolled in the program, which allows them to reside and work in the United States. Although they arrived in the country as minors, many of these beneficiaries, popularly known as the Dreamers, are now adults.

The nine states allege that they are negatively affected by the DACA program because it forces them to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on health, education and other services to immigrants in an irregular situation.

Defenders of the program, however, argue that these states have not been able to unequivocally show that these expenses are related to DACA or its beneficiaries. With respect to the argument that Congress is the highest authority on immigration, DACA defenders claim that Congress has precisely given powers to the Department of Homeland Security to establish immigration policies.

Since it came into force, DACA has gone back and forth in the courts. In 2016, the Supreme Court failed to agree on a version that would have expanded the program. Four years later, in 2020, the Supreme Court determined that Donald Trumps administration had unlawfully canceled the measure, which allowed it to remain in place.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition




Ukraine's defense forces were partially successful near Klishchiivka, Andriivka and Kurdiumivka in the eastern Donetsk region.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said this in a war update posted to Facebook, Ukrinform reports.

"Ukraine's defense forces continue to conduct an offensive operation in the Melitopol sector and offensive (assault) actions in the Bakhmut sector, destroying the enemy and liberating occupied territories step by step. As a result of the assault actions, the defense forces were partially successful near Klishchiivka, Andriivka and Kurdiumivka in the Donetsk region," the post read.

According to the General Staff, 24 combat engagements took place on Wednesday.

Throughout the day, Ukrainian aircraft launched ten strikes on concentrations of personnel, weapons and military equipment and two strikes on the enemy's anti-aircraft missile systems.

Units of the Ukrainian rocket forces hit the invaders' command post, anti-aircraft missile system, ten artillery pieces, two ammunition depots and EW station.

The enemy launched a missile strike, 80 airstrikes and 32 MLRS attacks on the positions of Ukrainian troops and populated areas.

"Unfortunately, as a result of Russian terrorist attacks, there are dead and wounded among the civilian population. The port infrastructure, private residential buildings and other civilian infrastructure were destroyed and damaged," the report said.
From February 24, 2022 to September 14, 2023, Ukraines Defense Forces eliminated 270,970 Russian invasion forces, including 620 in the past day alone.

Thats according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Ukrinform reports.

Ukrainian defense forces also destroyed 4,599 enemy tanks (+15 in the past day), 8,810 (+18) armored fighting vehicles, 5,944 (+42) artillery systems, 769 (+3) multiple rocket launchers, 517 (+0) air defense systems, 315 (+0) warplanes, 316 (+0) helicopters, 4,697 (+47) UAVs, 1,455 (+0) cruise missiles, 20 (+1) warships / cutters, 1 submarine (+1), 8,458 (+14) trucks and tankers, and 889 (+5) units of specialized equipment.

The incoming data on enemy losses are being verified.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, the Ukrainian Air Force in the past day carried out 12 strikes targeting enemy manpower and equipment clusters, and two  on the anti-aircraft missile systems.
Ukraine's defense forces shot down three drones over the Dnipropetrovsk region overnight into Thursday.

Serhii Lysak, head of the Dnipropetrovsk regional military administration, said this in a Telegram post, Ukrinform reports.

"At night, defenders of the sky from the Air Command East shot down three drones over the region. Debris from one of them fell in the Pershotravneve community, Nikopol district. A private house was partially destroyed. Another six were damaged. Eight household buildings and three cars also suffered damage. Dry grass caught fire. Rescuers put out the blaze," he said.

Lysak added that the enemy had also used heavy artillery and Grad multiple rocket launchers against the district. The Marhanets community came under attack. Emergency personnel are examining the affected area and clarifying the consequences of the attacks.

Russian troops attacked Ukraine with 22 kamikaze drones overnight. Seventeen drones were destroyed by Ukraine's air defense forces.
Russia keeps eight ships on combat duty in the Black Sea, no missile carriers among them.

The Ukrainian Navy reported this on Facebook, according to Ukrinform.

"As of 9:00 a.m. on September 14, there are eight enemy ships on combat duty in the Black Sea," the statement reads.

In addition, Russia has one warship in the Azov Sea and one ship in the Mediterranean. There are also no missile carriers.

As reported, on September 13, Russia kept 11 ships on combat duty in the Black Sea, none of them were missile carriers.
The Commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Serhiy Nayev has awarded soldiers from a mobile firing group who shot down four enemy Shaheds attack drones over the Sumy region with small arms over the course of a month.

The commander reported this in a message on Telegram, according to Ukrinform.

"I honored our valiant soldiers from the mobile firing group, who shot down four Shaheds drones over the Sumy region with small arms during the month," Nayev said.

According to him, these are ordinary guys, well-trained and highly motivated, who are performing the task of protecting the Ukrainian sky.

Read also: Three Shahed drones destroyed over Sumy region last night

Nayev wished them further victories.

The commander also congratulated the soldiers who recently returned from the Lyman operational and tactical group, which defended Ukraine in the Serebryany forestry and near Bilohorivka.

According to Nayev, they performed extremely difficult defense tasks for four months and managed to advance.

As reported, the Ukrainian Defense Forces have partially succeeded in the areas of Klishchiivka, Andriivka, Kurdyumivka in the Donetsk region as a result of assault operations.
The former Defense Minister of Great Britain, Ben Wallace, considers Ukrainian attacks against Russian warships based in occupied Crimea a logical development, since Moscow actively employs them in its war effort.

Wallace made a comment via X (formerly Twitter), Ukrinform saw.

"Russia can not use its Black Sea fleet to strike civilians and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine and not expect Ukraine to target those assets committing the war crimes," Wallace wrote.

As reported by Ukrinform, British Defense Minister Ben Wallace resigned from the post he had held since 2019.

In July, he confirmed that he would step down in the next reshuffle in the British government, not stand for election, and leave politics altogether.

Photo: Presidential Office
In Kyiv, the head of a utility company has been suspected of embezzling almost 360 thousand hryvnias.

The Kyiv City Prosecutor's Office reported this on Telegram, Ukrinform reported.

Under the procedural supervision of the Pechersk District Prosecutor's Office of Kyiv, the general head of the contractor was served a notice of suspicion of misappropriation of budget funds in large amounts and forgery, which caused grave consequences (Part 4 of Article 191, Part 2 of Article 366 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).

It was established that in 2019, the Department of Housing and Construction of the Pechersk District State Administration and one of the companies signed an agreement on the overhaul of gyms and auxiliary premises of an educational institution located on Pylyp Orlyk Street, worth almost UAH 1 million.

The conclusion of the economic examination found that when signing the acts of completion, the contractor overstated the amount of work actually performed by almost UAH 360 thousand.

As a result, funds were unreasonably transferred to the contractor's accounts for work that was not actually performed, causing damage to the Kyiv community.

As reported, the heads of Kyivmedspetsstrans were suspended from their positions in the case of embezzlement of UAH 13 million in the procurement of spare parts for ambulances.
The UN Shelter and Non-Food Item (SNFI) Cluster in Ukraine plans to provide winter kits to 1 million Ukrainians.

SNFI Coordinator in Ukraine John Wain stated this in an exclusive interview with Ukrinform.

Last month, a special working group together with UN partners worked on winterization, developing recommendations for winterization and assistance for approximately 1 million Ukrainians. An estimated USD 200 million is needed for these activities, Wain said.

He said that special winter kits have been created, which include high-temperature winter blankets, mattresses, bedspreads, electric and solid fuel heaters.

Another type of assistance is the provision of fuel: firewood and coal briquettes. The cluster works closely with the Ministry of Reintegration to identify the needs of a particular region and then coordinates these needs with the plans of humanitarian partners who will purchase firewood and fuel and ensure their delivery.

The UN can also provide monetary assistance, but this requires a full understanding of the market. Assessing the price situation on the fuel market available in different regions is another task and part of the coordination effort to provide this type of assistance, Wain emphasized.

As reported, last fall and winter, Russians actively attacked Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Cities and towns experienced frequent power and water outages, and people needed support.
Ukraine expects that the European Commission will cancel any restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural products after its expiration on September 15.

This is stated in a commentary released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Ukrinform reports.

"Ukraine expects that after this date, the EU side will lift any restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural products. Such a step would stop violations of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, as well as the principles and norms of the EU Single Market," it said.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes that in order to address the previously expressed concerns of some EU Member States, Ukraine and the European Commission have conducted systematic work within the framework of the Joint Coordination Platform. In particular, the parties reached agreements to increase the capacity of the Danube corridor, transfer sanitary and phytosanitary controls from the border to the countries of destination of Ukrainian products, monitor harvests, grain storage volumes, and trade flows at the border. In the context of developing long-term solutions, the parties also outlined steps to create new grain storage facilities on EU territory, identified alternative transport corridors to the Baltic, Adriatic and Aegean Seas, and started working on the introduction of joint customs control between Ukraine and the EU Member States. The Ministry also emphasizes a comprehensive analysis of data and processes, according to which the export of Ukrainian grains is not the cause of destabilization of the EU internal market.

Read also: Bulgarian parliament allows Ukrainian grain imports after Sept 15

"For the duration of the European Commission's ban and the prolonged absence of Ukrainian agricultural products, the problems of farmers in Slovakia, Poland, Romania, and Hungary were not resolved at the level of their governments. This indicates the presence of completely different factors of market pressure, including global price changes," the statement emphasized.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine also welcomes Bulgaria's decision to resume imports of Ukrainian grain and calls on other EU member states neighboring Ukraine to follow in Bulgarias footsteps.

"We believe it is appropriate to emphasize that Ukraine's competitor on the global grain markets is the Russian Federation, which is not subject to any restrictions on grain exports to the EU. By artificially restraining the export of Ukrainian products, Russian Federation receives additional conditions for international expansion and resources to continue its war against Ukraine," the ministry stressed.

Read also: Hungary wants to extend ban on Ukrainian grain imports after Sept 15

In the opinion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, any decision, be it European or national, that will further restrict Ukrainian agricultural exports will not only be unjustified and illegal, but will also harm the common economic interests of Ukraine, EU Member States, and the entire European Union in general, and will have a clear destabilizing effect on the global food market.

As reported, the Council of Ministers of Poland at its meeting on Tuesday adopted a resolution calling on the European Commission to extend the ban on the import of four types of agricultural products from Ukraine after September 15. If Brussels does not make a corresponding decision, Warsaw will unilaterally extend the embargo on Ukrainian grain. The document states that the ban will remain in effect "until relations in the agrarian sphere between Poland and Ukraine are settled."

In May 2023, the European Commission banned the import of wheat, corn, rapeseed, and sunflower from Ukraine to Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, and Romania at the insistence of these countries. On June 5, the ban was extended until September 15, 2023. These countries seek to extend the ban until the end of the year and expand it to some other goods.

The Ukrainian authorities said that if the European Commission extends the ban on the import of Ukrainian grain beyond September 15, Kyiv may consider mirror measures. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said Ukraine would turn to WTO arbitration in the event that Poland blocks the export of Ukrainian grain.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has held a meeting with South Korea's Minister of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport Won Hee-ryong and business representatives.

The head of state announced this on Telegram, Ukrinform reports.

"We are adding new economic specifics to our relations with the Republic of Korea. I met with the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Won Hee-ryong and Korean business representatives. I called for active work on the Ukrainian market. I am confident that such cooperation will enable us to provide new jobs and new economic growth for both Ukraine and the Republic of Korea," Zelensky said.

Earlier reports said that South Korea would provide Ukraine with an additional $2.3 billion in aid for post-war reconstruction.

Photo credit: Office of the President
Hunter Biden, son of U.S. President Joe Biden, has been indicted by a grand jury on federal firearms charges, according to the indictment filed in federal court in Delaware by David Weiss, the special counsel overseeing the case. Hunter Biden is accused of lying about his drug use when he bought a .38-caliber Colt Cobra in October 2018, a period when he has acknowledged struggling with addiction to crack cocaine. The indictment includes three counts. The trial may take place next year, in the midst of Bidens race for reelection in the Nov. 5, 2024 presidential election.

The indictment notes that on or about October 12, 2018, the defendant, Hunter Biden, submitted a written statement certifying that he was not an unlawful user or, or addicted to, any stimulant, narcotic drug, and any other controlled substance, when in fact, as he knew, that statement was false and fictitious. In total, hes charged with two counts of making false statements by checking a box falsely saying he was not a user of or addicted to drugs and a third count for possessing the gun as a drug user.

Two counts are punishable by up to 10 years in prison, while the third carries up to five years in prison, upon conviction. Prosecutors rarely prosecute these types of offenses.

The indictment comes two days after House Speaker Kevin McCarthy ordered the opening of an impeachment investigation into Joe Biden to determine whether he committed any wrongdoing in connection with his sons business dealings. Although the charges filed by Weiss have nothing to do with that investigation  but rather with Hunters descent into a spiral of drugs, alcohol and self-destruction after the death of his brother Beau  there is no doubt that they are a blow to the president.

Joe Biden has always been supportive of his son and has repeatedly appeared in public with him despite the investigations against him. The president, in fact, has praised Hunter for overcoming his addictions and straightening out his life.

The trial against Hunter Biden may overlap with the open cases that Donald Trump, the presidents possible rival in the 2024 presidential election, faces, stemming from four indictments for a total of 91 charges.

The presidents son initially admitted to the illegal purchase and possession of the gun as part of a plea deal that also included guilty pleas to misdemeanor tax charges. The deal would have spared him formal prosecution on the gun charge if he stayed out of trouble for two years and renounced owning a firearm in the future  a common agreement in these types of cases.

However, the parties had a different interpretation of the agreement. While Hunter Bidens lawyers believed that it put an end to all federal investigations into him, the prosecution felt it was free to bring charges on other possible crimes stemming from the ongoing investigation into his business dealings. In addition, the judge in charge of the case, appointed by Donald Trump, was reluctant to approve the deal.

Under pressure from Republican protests that the Justice Department was giving favored treatment to the presidents son, the deal fell through. Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Weiss as special counsel for the case, giving him added independence and broad authority to investigate and report his findings. Weiss had been investigating Hunter Biden as a Delaware federal prosecutor since Trumps tenure. Ongoing investigations since 2018 have so far found no evidence of other possible crimes.

Paradoxically, Hunter Biden could center his defense on a Supreme Court ruling that his father criticized: the one that enshrined the constitutional right to carry firearms in public for self-defense, which struck down a New York gun law. Recently, a federal appeals court in New Orleans, Louisiana, overturned a conviction for illegal possession of a gun by saying that the state law requiring a drug-free period ran counter to that right as interpreted by the Supreme Court. Our history and tradition may support some limits on an intoxicated persons right to carry a weapon, but it does not justify disarming a sober citizen based exclusively on his past drug usage, that ruling said.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Ukraine and South Korea have signed an agreement on the provision of concessional loans for the implementation of projects with the participation of Korean companies.

The document was signed at a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and South Korean Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Won Hee-ryong, who heads the Korean government and business delegation visiting Ukraine, according to the presidential press service.

"In the presence of the President of Ukraine and the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport of the Republic of Korea, the Agreement between the Government of Ukraine and the Government of the Republic of Korea regarding loans from the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) was signed. The agreement provides for the possibility of providing preferential loans for the implementation of projects in Ukraine with the participation of Korean companies. From the Ukrainian side, the document was signed by First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Economy Yulia Svyrydenko and from the Korean side by Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Ukraine Kim Hyung Tae," the President's Office said.

The president thanked the Korean side for supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and the decisions made regarding the provision of significant practical assistance to the country.

"I am grateful for the decision made by the government of the Republic of Korea to provide Ukraine with $2.3 billion in financial support for reconstruction and rehabilitation. This will give a tangible boost to the development of Ukrainian infrastructure," Zelensky said.

The head of state called on Korean businesses to actively work on the Ukrainian market and participate in the implementation of projects in the fields of nuclear and renewable energy development, machine building, car industry, lithium mining, oil refining, green metallurgy, railway transport, water resources and local infrastructure.

"We have a significant interest in the implementation of projects in the field of energy generation, development and strengthening of transit capabilities, in particular rail transport, development of a high-speed railway network for connection with European countries," Zelensky said.

Won, in turn, said that South Korea would continue to support Ukraine in protecting its freedom and sovereignty and noted that his visit to Kyiv together with Korean business demonstrates this support. The minister said that bilateral cooperation could be expanded in various areas of mutual interest.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal wrote on Telegram that during the meeting he discussed a wide range of issues with Won and Korean business representatives, including ways to deepen cooperation between the two countries, specific areas and recovery projects in which the experience of Korean companies will come in handy.

Shmyhal outlined the priorities of reconstruction: energy, humanitarian demining, and housing restoration.

He thanked the government of the Republic of Korea for the prompt transfer of demining equipment. He also expressed gratitude to the country for its support for the Ukrainian Peace Formula and UN General Assembly resolutions.

Photo credit: Office of the President, Denys Shmyhal / Telegram
Russian President Vladimir Putin does not show any desire to start peace negotiations with Ukraine.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said this during a dialogue on security policy issues at the Federal Academy for Security Policy on September 13, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

It will be possible to say that the Kremlin is ready for serious negotiations only "when Putin signals that he wants to talk," but so far he is only saying that he is not ready for this, but is ready to prolong the war for many more years, Pistorius said.

"Therefore, there are currently no grounds for visible talks. [...] I don't see any signs of that," the minister said.

According to Pistorius, he knows nothing if any preliminary negotiations are ongoing through diplomatic channels, but he did not rule out such a possibility.

Pistorius was almost the first German politician who said that Ukraine must win and not just that it "must not lose." The question is what is considered a victory, he said.

"Ultimately, it is not up to us to decide on what terms peace will be concluded, it will be decided by the Ukrainians, we should leave this issue to them. [...] Anything else would be our attack on their sovereignty," Pistorius said.

He added that until the Ukrainians are not able to negotiate, the country would need the support of Western partners.
Ammunition from North Korea could help Russia win time by giving its defense industry a chance to catch up with military demand.

Such a statement was made by the head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraines Defense Ministry Kyrylo Budanov against the background of Kim Jong-uns visit to Russia to meet with Vladimir Putin, Ukrinform reports with reference to NV.

North Korea has been supplying Russia with 122mm and 152mm artillery rounds and rockets for Grad multiple rocket launchers for a month and a half, Budanov says.

According to Western media, during Kim Jong-uns visit, the Kremlin seeks to secure the supply of ammunition from North Korea in exchange for other weapons, as well as technology and oil.

Read also: UK urges North Korea to cease arms talks with Russia

As reported earlier, The New York Times, citing sources, wrote that Vladimir Putin seeks to receive from North Korea artillery rounds and anti-tank missiles, while Kim Jong-un wants Russia to provide North Korea with advanced technology for satellites and nuclear submarines. In addition, Kim is seeking food aid for his country.

The White House said Putin and Kim recently exchanged letters, and Russian Defense Minister Shoigu's visit to Pyongyang in July included discussions of the arms deal.
The Pentagon is deploying experts to Ukraine to monitor the use of U.S. defense and security assistance.

This was reported by CNN, Ukrinform saw.

It is noted that this is due to the calls from some GOP Congressmen to strengthen control over the use of American taxpayers money.

The Department of Defenses inspector general said a high-ranking U.S. representative began work in Ukraine at the end of August, and additional personnel are expected to arrive by the end of September. This group of specialists, based in the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, will monitor U.S. aid.

The Joe Biden administration recently appealed to Congress to allocate an additional $24 billion to Ukraine, including $13 billion for security assistance.

Some skeptical Republican lawmakers question the feasibility of spending billions of dollars to support Ukraine and call for greater oversight.

A Defense Department inspector general report obtained by CNN warned that the ability of the U.S. to monitor billions of dollars in aid flowing into Ukraine faced challenges because of the limited U.S. presence. During the first six months of the war, the Office of Defense Cooperation-Kyiv was unable to conduct required [end-use monitoring] of military equipment provided to Ukraine.

The report, dated October 2022, underlined how difficult it was to track the vast quantities of weapons, ammunition, and equipment during the early months of the war.

During the Joe Biden administration, American aid to Ukraine has reached more than $43.7 billion.
Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Olha Stefanishyna has started her visit to Brussels.

This was reported by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister on Facebook, according to Ukrinform.

It is noted that the government official will meet with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, his newly appointed Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Security Policy Boris Ruge and ambassadors of NATO member states.

The parties will discuss the strengthening of Ukraine in the conditions of a full-scale war through the implementation of decisions approved at the NATO summit in Vilnius, including the functioning of the Ukraine-NATO Council, the development of an adapted Annual National Programme, as well as other documents aimed at strengthening interoperability and enhancing cooperation.

As reported, Stefanishyna earlier said that Ukraine would be ready to become a part of the European Union in two years, and a member of NATO even sooner.

Photo: eu-ua.org
South Korea has long had confirmation that Moscow receives weapons from North Korea and uses them in its war against Ukraine.

Thats according to Yonhap, referring to the Office of the South Korean President, Ukrinform reports.

"It's hard to talk about because this is an intelligence matter," the official said on customary condition of anonymity. "But we have long confirmed that kinds of weapons provided by North Korea were used by Russia in the Ukraine battlefield."

He also noted that it is premature to assess the results of the summit between Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin, since Kim's visit to Russia is still underway, adding that on Friday and Saturday, the North Korean leader is set to visit two more Russian cities where important military facilities are located.

Read also: UK urges North Korea to cease arms talks with Russia

"We're closely watching and scrutinizing all the situations going on and results going forward," the official said. "We're discussing multilateral measures we can take together with the United States, Japan and other key friends as well as individual measures that we can take on our own."

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol is expected to raise the issue of military cooperation between North Korea and Russia in his address to the UN General Assembly.

During a five-day visit to New York next week, the president is scheduled to meet with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and discuss global issues such as the war in Ukraine and North Korea's nuclear threats, as well as ways for Seoul and the UN to cooperate, the report said.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, the chief of Ukraines defense intelligence, Kyrylo Budanov, said North Korea had already been supplying Russia with 122mm and 152mm artillery rounds, as well as rockets for Grad MLR systems for a month and a half.
Russian Deputy Health Minister Oleg Salagay was not allowed to enter Denmark, where he was going to attend a meeting of the World Health Organization (WHO).

The Russian Embassy in Denmark reported this on Telegram channel, Ukrinform reported.

"A regional meeting of the World Health Organization is taking place in Copenhagen on September 12-14. State Secretary - Deputy Minister of Health O.O. Salagay was supposed to participate in this event. However, he was denied entry to Denmark at Kastrup airport," the diplomatic mission said.

The Russian Embassy will demand an apology and explanation from the Danish authorities. Denmark has not yet commented on the incident.

As reported, on May 2023, the WHO closed its Office for the Control of Noncommunicable Diseases in Moscow. Its authority was transferred to the organization's European Bureau, which is located in the Danish capital, Copenhagen.
Russian propaganda often uses the Jewish issue to divide Ukrainians and Jews.

It does this mainly by parasitizing on historical issues or by blowing up various minor incidents to universal proportions (often by fabricating them).

No one believes the image of Ukrainians as "hardened anti-Semites" created by the Russians. First of all, because any complaints about Ukrainian anti-Semitism on the part of the Kremlin look comical against the backdrop of Russian chauvinism and xenophobia, which have flourished in modern Russia.

Indeed, while Russians are trying to present themselves as the main "denazifiers," the question of whether it is time to leave the country or to suffer is becoming increasingly relevant for the Jewish community of the Russian Federation itself.

To tell the truth, Jews were urged to leave Russia back in December 2022 by none other than the former Chief Rabbi of Moscow, Pinchas Goldschmidt.

"When we look back over Russian history, whenever the political system was in danger you saw the government trying to redirect the anger and discontent of the masses towards the Jewish community. We saw this in tsarist times and at the end of the Stalinist regime," the rabbi said in an interview with The Guardian.

Pinchas Goldschmidt himself left Moscow two weeks after February 24, 2022, because of his refusal to publicly support the SMO and the pressure on his family by the Russian authorities. Rabbi Pinchas nurtured the idea that all his compatriots should leave Russia for almost 9 months.

During this period, Foreign Minister Lavrov spoke out on the Jewish topic, claiming in May 2022 that "Hitler was also of Jewish descent, so this does not mean anything yet." "We have long heard the wise Jewish people say that the biggest anti-Semites are the Jews themselves," Lavrov added in an interview with Italy's Rete 4.

Also in October 2022, Alexei Pavlovich, Assistant Secretary of the Russian Security Council, added Lubavichivsk Hasidism to his article about "new pagan cults" in Ukraine. The Russian official called it a "sect" and stated that the main principle of its supporters is "superiority over all nations and peoples."

As we can see, each of these statements was not made by marginalized Russian experts. But now the "heavy artillery" is being used. Vladimir Putin again mentioned the Jewish origin of the Ukrainian president. He said that "Western curators have put an ethnic Jew at the head of modern Ukraine" in order to "cover up the anti-human nature" of Ukraine. "This makes the situation extremely disgusting, that an ethnic Jew is covering up the glorification of Nazism and those who once led the Holocaust in Ukraine," Putin claimed. He added that "ordinary citizens of Israel understand this best of all" and suggested that they "see what they say about it on the Internet."

In June, Putin said that he had Jewish friends who did not like the Ukrainian president. "I have many Jewish friends from childhood. They say that Zelensky is not a Jew, he is a disgrace to the Jewish people. This is no joke, no irony," Putin said on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg Economic Forum. And it is indeed not a joke or irony: as you know, every anti-Semite must have his or her obligatory "Jewish friend." But at the same time, these often mythical Jews should not create dissonance with their personal anti-Semites.

Putin's relationship with Jews is not good. They mostly write and do things that the Kremlin dictator does not like. For example, on September 6, the day of the terrorist attack on the market in Konstantinovka that killed 17 people, Israeli Ambassador to Russia Alexander Ben Zvi signed an agreement with the Russian Ministry of Culture on cooperation in the field of joint film production.

The Israeli authorities did not publicize this agreement in any way, not even a press release in Hebrew. And there would have been no publicity even among local filmmakers and actors if it hadn't been for the personal telegram channel of Russian Minister of Culture Olga Lyubimova, who couldn't hold her water and quickly told everyone about the "long-awaited agreement."

The backdrop for her is not very good: the same "ordinary Jews" have just left the famous Lenin Komsomol Theater in Moscow without a single penny from a tour to Israel. Leninsky Komsomol has long since disappeared, the director Mark Zakharov is gone, Yevhen Leonov has also died almost thirty years ago, and the "Mark Zakharov Lenkom" Theater still exists. But some unknown sponsors have found money for the theater, which transports "vehicles for the Russian army and the SMO [so-called "special military operation"]," to travel to Israel.

Over the past year and a half, Olga Buzova, Elena Vaenga, Grigory Leps, Philip Kirkorov, Alexander Rosenbaum, Vyacheslav Butusov, and the RASA duo have been unable to travel to Israel under pressure from "ordinary Jews." Now the public is gathering strength for the "Russian Ballet's" tour scheduled for February 2024 under the direction of People's Artist of the USSR Vyacheslav Gordeyev. The latter once celebrated the annexation of Crimea, and now he will definitely not make it to Jerusalem. But all of these "stars" together will not tarnish the memory of "Mark Zakharov's Lenkom", because it responded in a big way: an open letter "from the actors" was shared not on the theater's website but in the main official media outlet of the Russian government: "Rossiyskaya Gazeta."

The following was very "nice" towards Israeli citizens from representatives of the "great Russian culture": "The Israeli 'Ivans who do not remember their ancestry' writhing in powerless anger, depicting victorious jubilation, have only once again demonstrated the unsightly appearance of the 'defenders of Ukraine', sitting on the necks of the states of various countries."

According to recent polls, 76% of the Israeli population supported Ukraine after the great invasion, while only 10% supported Russia. Among voters of right-wing parties, support for Russia was the highest, but no more than 13%. The electorate of the center-left and left-wing parties clearly took the side of Ukraine - 87% and 90%, respectively.

The government of Benjamin Netanyahu is painfully balancing between its voters, Iran, Russia, Ukraine, and the United States. On September 6, an agreement was signed with Russia, and on September 7, Netanyahu called Zelensky to discuss the safety of Hasidic pilgrims in Uman. The same ones that Russia considers a "sect" that advocates "superiority over all nations and peoples."

The Israeli government, in turn, is simultaneously calling on Hasidim to refrain from traveling to Ukraine, but is allocating 4 million shekels to help religious travelers.

And while the Israeli authorities are looking back at Putin, the Jews are not forgotten in Russia. "The Officers of Russia" organization is demanding a ban on the distribution of the British film "Gold. Judgment Day". The film will be checked for "incitement to ethnic hatred": Gold Meir mentions Ukraine in 1918, and from the point of view of the Officers and Vladimir Putin, Ukraine did not exist at that time.

Israel is the only country in the world that has increased the number of flights to Russia after the Russian full-scale invasion-they are already taking their own out. Meanwhile, in July 2022, the Russian Ministry of Justice made its first attempt to liquidate the Jewish agency "Sohnut" in the country. In fact, Moscow can either close down "Sohnut" or give Iran modern SU-35 aircraft: either step would be fatal to relations with Israel.

Everything is teetering on the edge of an abyss, and it is only a matter of time before Russian state anti-Semitism comes to full speed.

Center for Strategic Communications and Information Security
KYODO NEWS - Sep 14, 2023 - 15:06 | All, Japan

Newly appointed Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa said Thursday that it is important for Japan to maintain frank dialogue with China to improve the strained ties between the Asian powers.

At her first press conference after Wednesday's Cabinet reshuffle in which she was named successor to Yoshimasa Hayashi, Kamikawa pledged to build "constructive and stable" ties with Beijing as a "consistent policy" of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's government.

"Japan and China are facing many challenges and matters of concern, but it is important for Japan to say what we should say, call on China to act responsibly, engage in dialogue and work together on common challenges," the 70-year-old said.

Kamikawa assumed the post at a critical time when Japan-China relations are strained by the dispute over the release of treated radioactive wastewater from the now-defunct Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in northeastern Japan into the Pacific Ocean, which started on Aug. 24.

The neighbors have also been at odds over issues including the Tokyo-controlled, Beijing-claimed Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea, and China's intensifying joint military activities with Russia near Japan amid the war in Ukraine.

As for Russia, Kamikawa criticized its invasion of Ukraine and vowed to maintain severe economic sanctions on Moscow in line with other Group of Seven members and the international community.

Meanwhile, she said Japan will "appropriately address" matters that Tokyo and Moscow should deal with as neighbors, such as fishing quotas, "from the perspective of what will contribute to our national interests."

Kamikawa also said she will show "Japan's presence" at the ongoing annual session of the U.N. General Assembly and other meetings on the sidelines in New York, where she is expected to visit next week to make her international debut as Japan's top diplomat.

Related coverage:

FOCUS: More female lawmakers key to elevating women to leadership in Japan

New Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa vows to enhance Japan's presence

China seeks dialogue for stable ties as Japan revamps Cabinet
KYODO NEWS - Sep 14, 2023 - 23:51 | All, Japan, World

Japan's new Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken agreed Thursday to closely cooperate in dealing with China and Russia's invasion of Ukraine during their first phone talks.

"The alliance with the United States is the linchpin for Japan's diplomacy and security," Kamikawa, who assumed the foreign affairs portfolio on Wednesday following a Cabinet reshuffle, told reporters after the roughly 10-minute conversation, calling her talks with Blinken "an important step" toward building a relationship of trust.

Blinken congratulated Kamikawa on her new role, which made her the first female Japanese foreign minister in around two decades. The 70-year-old lawmaker succeeded Yoshimasa Hayashi, who had been in the post since November 2021.

The two agreed to hold a meeting in New York next week on the fringes of the annual session of the U.N. General Assembly, according to Kamikawa.

According to the Japanese Foreign Ministry, Kamikawa and Blinken also pledged to work together to address North Korea's missile and nuclear threats and further beef up the Japan-U.S. alliance's deterrence and response capabilities in the face what they view as an increasingly severe security environment.

Kamikawa told Blinken that Japan, as chair of this year's Group of Seven industrialized nations, is resolved to work toward "maintaining and strengthening the free and open international order based on the rule of law," the ministry said.

The talks came as the rift between the major democracies led by the G-7 and the China-Russia camp has been deepening over Moscow's war in Ukraine since February last year and Beijing's increasing military activities in the Indo-Pacific.

It was the first talks for Kamikawa with any foreign counterpart since she became foreign minister.

Related coverage:

Support for new Kishida Cabinet rises 6 points to 39.8%: Kyodo poll

New foreign minister Yoko Kamikawa says Japan must engage with China

New Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa vows to enhance Japan's presence
HONG KONG, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 14th Sep, 2023) Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, stressed that the UAE and China share strong strategic relations, which have witnessed continuous development in various fields and sectors.

In his statements to the Emirates news Agency (WAM), Al Marri said that China is the largest trading partner of the UAE, which in turn is Beijing's largest partner in the middle East and North Africa in terms of non-oil trade, reaching US$77 billion in 2022, a 27 percent annual growth compared to $61 billion in 2021.

China is the third-largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI), which totalled $6.3 billion, with bilateral investment between the two countries rising in recent years to a record level of $15 billion in 2022, he added.

The UAE is the preferred destination for Chinese companies interested in expanding into Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, the Middle East, and North Africa due to its world-class infrastructure, including its ports, logistics centres, and free trade zones, which facilitate smooth trade and communication with different countries worldwide, he further added.

Cooperation with Chinese companies, such as Huawei, lenovo, xiaomi, JD.co, ByteDance, and NIO, is contributing to the digital transformation and growth of the UAEs technology sector and driving innovation and entrepreneurship, he continued.

Al Marri also affirmed the UAE's support for the Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to achieve shared prosperity and economic development, stemming from the countrys strategic stance to promote cooperation between the initiative and the Middle East through knowledge exchange and capacity building.

The UAE's non-oil trade with Hong Kong reached $12 billion in 2022, a nearly 50 percent growth over the past 10 years. FDIs from Hong Kong in the UAE totalled $2.1 billion, mainly in the retail and automotive sectors at 73 percent, manufacturing at 19 percent, and transportation and storage at 5 percent, he added.

Regarding the UAE successfully joining the BRICS group, Al Marri said that this membership is an international recognition of its positive and key role in the areas of trade, investment, international cooperation, and economic diplomacy over many years and reflects the countrys growing role both regionally and internationally, proven by its active participation in the United Nations (UN) system and the G20, and most recently, its full membership in the BRICS group.

Regarding the UAE's preparation to host COP28, Al Marri stated that climate change is one of humanity's most significant challenges this century, and the UAE believes in pluralism and international solutions to global issues.

He then pointed out that Zhang Jun, China's Permanent Representative to the UN, confirmed his country's support for the UAEs hosting of COP28 and believes in its readiness to work with all parties to achieve a fair and equitable transitional process and promote international cooperation that serves the mutual interests of everyone, highlighting the UAE's efforts to establish a stronger green partnership with China.

He further noted that China's experience in developing practical and commercially viable clean technologies is key to the world's mitigation plans, especially in developing nations, adding that China and other major countries can play a key role in ensuring that the climate crisis is addressed justly and effectively in various areas, including in terms of financing, technology transfer, and capacity building.

He then pointed out that the private sectors in both countries are uniting their efforts to achieve green transformation through the Green Tech Fund (GTF), jointly launched by Mensha Ventures and the Asian Development and Investment Bank and aimed at supporting investment companies in the green technology sector in GCC countries.


Moscow, Sept 13 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 14th Sep, 2023 ) :Kim Jong Un told President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday he was sure Russia would win a "great victory" over its enemies, as Ukraine's Western allies warned of a possible Russian arms agreement with North Korea.

Russia became a pariah in the West after launching full-scale hostilities in Ukraine last year and has looked to strengthen alliances with other leaders ostracised by democratic countries.

"We are confident that the Russian army and people will win a great victory in the just fight to punish evil groups who pursue hegemony, expansion, and ambition," Kim told Putin, raising a toast during an official dinner following one-on-one talks.

Kim also praised the "heroic" Russian army in comments that news agencies sponsored by Moscow interpreted as relating to Moscow's large-scale military operation in Ukraine.

Putin praised the "strengthening of cooperation and friendship between our countries," while hosting Kim at a Far East spaceport, and told reporters he saw "possibilities" for military cooperation with North Korea.

He had earlier said Moscow could help Pyongyang build satellites.

In Washington, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller described any cooperation as "quite troubling and would potentially be in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions." US officials and experts have said Russia is interested in buying North Korean ammunition to use in Ukraine.

"We will always be with Russia," Kim said, according to footage broadcast on Russian tv.

"An old friend is better than two new ones," Putin said, quoting a Russian proverb and referencing the Soviet Union's role in the Korean War.

Their talks as well as discussions with delegations lasted around two hours before the leaders proceeded to the dinner in Kim's honour.

Kim will later oversee a display of the capabilities of Russia's Pacific fleet in Vladivostok, Putin announced.

- Cosmodrome meeting - The two leaders met at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, with footage released by the Kremlin showing the pair shaking hands enthusiastically as Kim arrived.

The two then toured assembly and launch facilities for the Angara and Soyuz-2 space rocket launchers before sitting down for talks.

While Kim was in Russia, Pyongyang fired two ballistic missiles on Wednesday, the South Korean military said, the latest in a string of sanctions-busting tests.

Miller, the US State Department spokesman, warned that North Korean satellites have been used to develop Pyongyang's ballistic missiles.

The United States "will not hesitate" to impose sanctions if appropriate, Miller told reporters.

Kim, who travelled overland to Russia in his bullet-proof train, was accompanied by an entourage that suggested the summit would have a strong military focus.

Among the top military officials accompanying Kim were Korean People's Army Marshal Pak Jong Chon and Munitions Industry Department Director Jo Chun Ryong, according to the North's state media.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu took part in the talks with Kim, as did Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, images on Russian state television showed.

Russian news agencies published images of Kim and Putin touring the vast space centre.

"The leader of the DPRK shows great interest in rocket technology, and they are trying to develop (their presence in) space," Putin said, referring to North Korea by its official name.

Kim thanked Putin for inviting him to visit, despite the Russian leader's "busy schedule".
Pakistan People's Party (PPP) Parliamentarians Secretary Information Shazia Ata Marri said that her party was primarily focusing on stability of national economy, stressing that while elections were inevitable, the party was not concerned about who sets the date for the general elections

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 14th Sep, 2023 ) :Pakistan People's Party (PPP) Parliamentarians Secretary Information Shazia Ata Marri said that her party was primarily focusing on stability of national economy, stressing that while elections were inevitable, the party was not concerned about who sets the date for the general elections.

She was giving a press briefing outside Bilawal House, here on Thursday. She was joined by Faisal Kareem Kundi and Shahzad Saeed Cheema during this briefing, which followed the PPP's Central Executive Committee (CEC) meeting.

During the CEC meeting, the matter of elections was thoroughly discussed, and Marri insisted that announcing the election date was as important as defining the Constituencies. She revealed that the next CEC session was scheduled for Friday, September 15, at Bilawal House in Lahore.

The previous CEC meeting, chaired by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, included prominent figures like former president Asif Ali Zardari, Faryal Talpur, former prime minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, and other senior PPP members from across the country.

The meeting delved into various pressing issues, including the current political landscape, President Arif Alvi's recommendation to hold elections on November 6, and the absence of an election schedule from the Election Commission. She voiced strong concerns about what she alleged to be an attempt to corner the PPP.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the devastation caused by floods in certain provinces and the relief efforts in response.

Shazia Marri emphasized the PPP's commitment to upholding the constitution and fulfilling its constitutional duties.

Faisal Kareem Kundi, Secretary Information of the PPP, mentioned that Aitezaz Ahsan and Latif Khosa were invited to the meeting but they couldn't attend due to personal commitments. Latif Khosa's response was expected within seven days, according to Kundi.

Shahzad Saeed Cheema, Secretary Information of the PPP for Central Punjab, further underscored the challenges the party was currently facing in the prevailing political climate.
Fall Pre-Law Week at Southern Miss set for Sept. 18-22

Thu, 09/14/2023 - 03:38pm | By: David Tisdale

The University of Southern Mississippis (USM) Legal Studies Program in its School of Social Science and Global Studies Program will host Pre-Law Week Sept. 18-22 for the fall 2023 semester on the Hattiesburg campus for students interested in law school.

The weeks programming, offered through in-person and online formats, includes the following (email Amanda Butler for information on how to access online Pre-Law Week events):

Monday, Sept. 18: Keynote address from former Mississippi Supreme Court Justice and USM alumnus Randy Pierce, via Zoom, 4-5:15 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 19: Mock Law School Class featuring Mississippi College School of Law Professor Donald Campbell, 3:45  5:15 p.m., Liberal Arts Building room 101.

Wednesday, Sept. 20: Law School Fair, 10 a.m.  2 p.m., Thad Cochran Center



Wednesday, Sept. 20: Pizza with a Professional Paralegal 5  6:30 p.m., Liberal Arts Building, room 110.

Thursday, Sept. 21: The Law School Application Process, 12:15  1:45 p.m. via Zoom.

Thursday, Sept. 21: Dinner with a Dozen Legal Eagles 4:30  6:30 p.m., Ogletree Alumni House. Students are invited to join successful Southern Miss alumni within the legal profession for this exclusive networking event.

Friday, Sept. 22: Practice LSAT (Law School Admissions Test) 9 a.m.  noon. E-mail Amanda Butler to be enrolled.

USM Pre-Law Week events may also be viewed online.
NOAA Provides $2.5 Million Grant to Help USM Develop Data Assembly Hub

Thu, 09/14/2023 - 09:17am | By: Van Arnold

The University of Southern Mississippis (USM) renowned expertise in ocean science research and technology provided the impetus for a $2.5 million grant awarded recently to the University by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA).

The award will be used to support the development of a Data Assembly Hub for Uncrewed Systems (UxS), which are autonomous or remotely operated vehicles that collect environmental data. NOAA currently uses UxS for seafloor and habitat mapping, ocean exploration, marine mammal and fishery stock assessments, emergency response, and at-sea observations that improve forecasting of extreme events, such as harmful algal blooms and hypoxia.

Dr. Henry Jones, Director of Research Development and Scientific Entrepreneurship at USM, explains that the Data Assembly Hub concept originated in 2020.

NOAA thought leaders in data science asked USM for new ideas to handle the rapidly growing data produced by NOAA Uncrewed Systems, said Jones. That led to a successful pilot project, which was the foundation for this grant. We have been making progress over the three years since, and our team of faculty, students, industry partners, and NOAA experts are all excited to see it grow into something we expect to make a difference throughout NOAA.

The Mississippi coast has become a national hotbed for testing and use of UxS to collect important data characterizing the seafloor and ocean habitats, measuring atmospheric conditions, and coastal monitoring such as erosion or damage assessments. Data collected from commercial and NOAA uncrewed systems will further the growth of the New Blue Economy around the nation.

We are excited to see continued growth in our research collaboration with NOAA. Cultivating the Blue Economy on the Gulf Coast is a team effort, said Dr. Kelly Lucas, USMs Vice President for Research. This grant shows our shared focus on innovation and economic development with a global impact. We appreciate the continued support of our congressional delegation and our NOAA partners."

The collaborative effort will serve as a critical pilot by aggregating UxS data and observations for environmental analysis and economic innovation, and it will support NOAAs future data management strategy for understanding, utilizing and managing commercial cloud computing infrastructure. UxS data may be accessible to scientists, resource managers and industries interested in environmental model development, forecast improvements and resource conservation.

Jennifer Bowers, NOAAs UxS Data Enterprise Project Manager at the National Centers for Environmental Information in Mississippi, noted: Data provides the foundation for understanding our oceans and atmosphere. New computing technologies developed by USM for the Data Assembly Hub will enable NOAA to manage UxS data as an asset. This has the potential to inform immediate decisions, to place data in context for future predictions and past reconstructions as well as support the burgeoning Blue Economy.

The Data Assembly Hub project began this fall and is scheduled for completion at the end of summer 2025. The timing provides an opportunity for USM students to participate in developing this groundbreaking data management project.

Jones emphasizes that the grant and subsequent data collection will provide innumerable benefits to the Gulf South region.

New products, insightful research, and wise policies require data, and this grant will make data access much simpler and more economical, said Jones. This creates a platform for our region to make the most of decades of NOAA data already collected, as well as new NOAA data as it streams in.
The Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network podcast recently featured two small-business owners -- one from New Jersey and one from Sheridan. The podcast features small-business success stories, educational topics from experts and interviews with staff and leadership. Episodes are typically released twice per month.

The Wyoming SBDC Network offers business expertise to help Wyoming residents think about, launch, grow, reinvent or exit their business. The Wyoming SBDC Network is hosted by the University of Wyoming with state funds from the Wyoming Business Council and funded, in part, through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

In an episode launched Aug. 14, the podcast featured consultant and educator Alex Gunter. Gunter is the founder of his consulting company, Unicorncat Consulting LLC, in Florence, N.J., and is a self-described digital transformation maverick. Gunter discussed consumer-available generative artificial intelligence tools, including ChatGPT, and how small-business owners can use these tools to improve their operations. Gunter also gave listeners more information on the training webinars he held in collaboration with the Wyoming Community Navigator Program about how to use ChatGPT for small businesses.

On Aug. 24, Shawn Day, founder and president of Wyomings newest record label, Big Horn Records, of Sheridan, joined the podcast. Listen to Days episode as the conversation explores how Big Horn Records came to be. Additionally, find out more about Days history in the music industry and how his extensive community leadership in Sheridan factors into the development and success of his growing record label.

Big Horn Records will take Wyomings burgeoning music scene to the rest of the world, in the process establishing itself as one of the most innovative and eclectic music companies in America today, Day says. Our collective aim is to support and promote emerging and established artists across the state of Wyoming.

These Wyoming SBDC Network podcast episodes and others can be found on Spotify and Google podcasts. Episodes are available at no cost as are all Wyoming SBDC Network services.
Eric Nye

University of Wyoming Professor Emeritus Eric Nye has been elected as a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries, one of the oldest and most prestigious learned societies in the world.

Nye joins about 3,000 other Fellows of the society, based in London, of whom fewer than 150 are from the United States.

Founded around 1586 as the College of Antiquaries, revived in 1707 and chartered in 1751, the Society of Antiquaries has a British royal charter to further the study of history and antiquities. It consists of archaeologists, historians, anthropologists and antiquaries unified by their curiosity in the human journey through time. To be elected as a Fellow, a person must be excelling in the knowledge of the antiquities and history of this and other nations.

Nye has not yet been formally admitted to the society. That will take place later this fall, during a ceremony at Burlington House, the societys headquarters in London, where new Fellows sign the register of admissions and are welcomed into the society.

Nye, who is continuing his writing and research in his retirement in Cambridge, England, says he is looking forward to the ceremony.

Britain has always been passionate about understanding its past. As one who shares that passion, I feel greatly honored to join this venerable society, Nye says. It provides a tremendous network of friends and scholars whose work enriches the culture for others.

Nye -- whose long and distinguished career in UWs Department of English included numerous awards for teaching and research -- conducted his doctoral research on the English Romantic poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Nyes research on Coleridges disciples centered on the neglected literary figure and early Cambridge Apostle John Sterling.

Sleuthing after Sterlings letters and papers, Nye made other manuscript discoveries that keep him busy in his frequent travels. His 2015 book on Cambridge Apostle John Kembles Gibraltar journal represents one of these discoveries. An avid private collector of rare books, Nye also binds and restores them and is an officer in the Bibliographical Society in London.
Four Men Convicted of $18M Global Investment Fraud Scheme

A federal jury in the Western District of Arkansas convicted four men yesterday for their lead roles in an investment fraud and money laundering conspiracy that cheated victims out of more than $18 million.

The defendants abused their positions of trust to entice victims into parting with more than $18 million, said Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Departments Criminal Division. The defendants then used their financial backgrounds to systematically launder the money through a web of international bank accounts. This case stands as a stark message to those who defraud others for their personal gain: you will be found, you will be prosecuted, and you will be convicted.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, between at least 2013 and 2021, John C. Nock, 55, of Fayetteville, Arkansas; Brian Brittsan, 67, of San Marcos, California; Kevin Griffith, 67, of Orem, Utah; and Alexander Ituma, 57, of Lehi, Utah, conspired to engage in an investment fraud scheme through an entity known as The Brittingham Group, which Nock founded. Together, the four defendants falsely represented the nature of their investment offerings and promised outsize returns to victims that, in reality, the defendants could not and did not produce. To promote and conceal the conspiracy, Nock and Brittsan directed victims to send their money to bank accounts that Griffith, Ituma, and other co-conspirators controlled. Once the money was in the hands of the co-conspirators, the defendants transferred victim money through a complex web of worldwide bank accounts.

Plain and simple, these four individuals ran a fraudulent scheme. They falsely represented the nature of their business and lied about potential investment returns to bilk unsuspecting victims out of more than $18 million, said IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Chief Jim Lee. I commend the Criminal Divisions Fraud Section who prosecuted the case, and our special agents and partners at the FBI uncovered the complex web of financial transactions that led to the defendants convictions yesterday.

The conviction of these defendants sends a strong message to criminals committing financial crimes. A single scam can destroy a company, devastate families by wiping out their life savings, or cost investors millions of dollars, said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBIs Criminal Investigative Division. The FBI would like to remind investors to be diligent and gather as much information as possible before making any investment. The FBI will continue to work aggressively with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who break the law and violate public trust.

The jury convicted each defendant of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. The defendants face a maximum of 20 years in prison on each count. The jury also convicted Nock of money laundering for which he faces a maximum of 10 years in prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. A federal district court judge will determine any sentences after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

IRS-CI and the FBI investigated the case. U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes and the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Arkansas provided invaluable assistance.

Trial Attorneys Philip Trout, Vasanth Sridharan, and Sara A. Hallmark of Criminal Divisions Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.

This story has been published on: 2023-09-14. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Vatican Sources Have Leaked that Bishop Strickland of Tyler TX Will be Asked to Resign

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Randall Terry

Sept. 14, 2023



WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2023 /Standard Newswire/ -- Bishop Strickland has publicly stated that he will refuse to resign, and that he will exhaust the canonical remedies at his disposal to protect his episcopacy.

Event Details



What: Press conference and demonstration at Vatican Embassy



Why: To Call on the Vatican to Leave Bishop Strickland Alone.



Where: Vatican Embassy; 3339 Massachusetts Ave N.W.



When: Thursday, September 14, 3:30 P.M.

Bishop Strickland has become beloved by millions of faithful Catholics and Protestants - in a way similar to that of the Late Bishop Fulton Sheen - because of his unflinching defense of the unborn, recognizing that marriage can only be between a man and a woman, and Catholic Orthodoxy.



Conversely, he has become a "thorn in the side" of those in the Vatican who wish to undermine Church teaching and tradition.



Catholics and Protestants (who love life, and Bishop Strickland's courage) will gather at the Vatican embassy to pray, and call on the Vatican to leave Bishop Strickland alone.



Randall Terry, Operation Rescue Founder States:

"Why is the Vatican singling out Bishop Strickland? What nefarious forces are at play inside the Vatican that would silence one of the most beloved and heroic bishops of our times?



"We humbly call on the Vatican to give us MORE bishops like Bishop Strickland. The Church in America and around the world is racked by scandal, precisely because of the lack of courageous, outspoken Bishops - who defend life and truth with their voices, their reputations, and if need be, their lives.



"Bishop Strickland's 'sin' is that he became popular on social media, and made other prelates and people in the Vatican look bad. The problem for him is that he is too much like a 'soloist.' We don't need a great 'soloist;' we need a great 'choir.'



"The real test on the horizon is this: How many of his brother bishops in America and around the world will speak up publically in Bishop Strickland's defense? This is where the mettle of other good men will be tested."

To interview Randall Terry text 904-687-9806



SOURCE Randall Terry



CONTACT: 904-687-9806


KYODO NEWS - Sep 14, 2023 - 10:39 | All, Japan

The leader of Japan's major opposition party Kenta Izumi said Wednesday the likelihood of a general election in the country is "increasing," following a Cabinet revamp.

Izumi, who heads the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, told reporters in Washington that he believes Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is trying to "clear conditions for the dissolution (of the House of Representatives) one by one."

After meeting with senior U.S. officials, lawmakers and experts during his five-day visit, Izumi said that parliamentary by-elections in Japan on Oct. 22 will likely hold the key to whether there will be a snap election.

He said the opposition party will step up efforts to win the upcoming by-elections if Kishida does not decide to dissolve the lower house before that date.

The visit to the United States to discuss security and economic issues is the first by Izumi since he became leader of the party in 2021.

While Kishida reshuffled his Cabinet and key ruling party posts on Wednesday in an attempt to strengthen his political position, Izumi said one of the goals of the trip was to convince U.S. officials and lawmakers that the opposition party can be a reliable partner of the United States.

He said the significance of Tokyo's alliance with Washington would remain intact if the opposition party achieves a change of government.

The officials Izumi held talks with during his visit from Sunday included Kin Moy, principal deputy assistant secretary for East Asian and Pacific affairs at the State Department.

Related coverage:

Profiles of Japan PM Kishida's Cabinet members

Kishida revamps Cabinet with record 5 women to boost sluggish support

China seeks dialogue for stable ties as Japan revamps Cabinet
KYODO NEWS - Sep 14, 2023 - 16:14 | All, Japan

Japan's Prince Hisahito, who is second in line to the imperial throne, has tested positive for COVID-19, the Imperial Household Agency said Thursday.

The nephew of Emperor Naruhito has a high fever and will rest at his residence until Monday, it said, adding the prince's parents, Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko, have tested negative.

The prince, a second-year student at the Senior High School at Otsuka, University of Tsukuba, had a fever on Wednesday after returning from school but tested negative for COVID-19 at the time.

With the fever unabated on Thursday morning, he retook the test, and the infection was confirmed, the agency said.

The crown princess and crown prince's press conference at the Akasaka Estate in Tokyo about their official visit to Vietnam scheduled for later this month has been postponed.

Related coverage:

Japan's Prince Hisahito, 2nd in line to throne, turns 17

Japan's Crown Princess Kiko tests positive for COVID

Prince Hitachi, former Emperor Akihito's brother, taken to hospital
Thailand's new civilian coalition government may seek greater engagement with Western democracies even as it continues to maintain ties with China forged by the previous military-led regime, analysts said.

But while the new Pheu Thai government may want to differentiate itself from that of Prayuth Chan-ocha  the general who led the 2014 military coup and was subsequently voted in twice as prime minister by parliament  appearances suggest a pivot away from China is unlikely.

In March, months before the May 14 election, Pheu Thai Party leader Srettha Thavisin, who is now prime minister, said his party would support increased trade and tourism with China. Within days of Srettha's election on August 22, Chinese envoy to Thailand Han Zhiqiang invited Srettha to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, Thai media Matichon reported.

Benjamin Zawacki, author of "Thailand: Shifting Ground between the US and a Rising China," said to VOA Thai in a September 1 email interview, "Perhaps to distinguish itself from those [previous] administrations  and because ideology and ideological consistency have never played a prominent role in Thai foreign policy  the incoming Pheu Thai-led government will more meaningfully engage the U.S. and other democracies."

Greg Raymond, lecturer in Southeast Asian politics and foreign relations at Australian National University, said that as a coalition government, Pheu Thai may be significantly constrained from changing policies set by its predecessor.



Pheu Thai "subscribes to the consensus that steering a middle course between China and the U.S. is the most appropriate policy for Thailand," he told VOA Thai in an email interview on August 30.

Internal politics

Thailand struggled to form a government for more than three months after the May 14 national elections.

The youth-oriented Move Forward Party received the most votes in the May 14 election but its efforts to form a government were thwarted when its leader, U.S.-educated Pita Limjaroenrat, fell 51 votes short of the majority needed from Thailand's bicameral National Assembly to clinch the top job. Pita's campaign promises had included developing a foreign policy less tied to Beijing.

Pheu Thai came in second in the nationwide vote. It ascended to power late last month after forming an unlikely coalition with 10 other parties, including two aligned with the military generals who staged the 2014 coup. Both houses of Parliament vote together for the prime minister under a constitution implemented by the military-controlled government. Longtime observers of Thailand's political scene say the new constitution is designed to protect conservative military-backed rule. Pheu Thai members now hold the top spots in Thailand's foreign affairs and defense ministries, key policymaking entities. Onetime political activist Suthin Khlangsaeng is defense minister, the rare civilian to hold the post. Former Thailand trade representative Panpree Pahitthanukorn is the foreign minister and a deputy premier.

Suthin is expected to maintain friendly relations with China. From 2014 to 2017, Western nations shunned the new regime's offers to purchase military hardware, and the generals turned to Beijing, Reuters reported. In 2015, Thailand was one of the first countries to buy Chinese naval hardware. In 2017, the two nations signed a billion-dollar deal for the purchase of three submarines, according to Radio Free Asia. After Thailand's 2019 elections, the U.S. led an effort among Western nations to normalize relations with the kingdom, despite Prayuth's continued military-influenced leadership.

In August 2019, the U.S. State Department approved a possible sale to Thailand of 60 Stryker infantry carrier vehicles with equipment and support at an estimated cost of $175 million, followed by a $137.17 million of sale of eight reconnaissance helicopters in September, according to Murray Hiebert, a senior associate of the Southeast Asia Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

Panpree, a business-oriented technocrat, told the Thai newspaper Thairath in March that Pheu Thai's foreign policy would focus on promoting a regional digital economy using information technology for creating goods and services in Southeast Asia, ramping up trade negotiations and attracting more foreign investments. Srettha, who spoke of reviving Thailand's pandemic-busted economy during the campaign, on Monday vowed to move quickly to relieve the country's economic problems in his inaugural speech to parliament. He plans to talk with U.S. President Joe Biden and key businessmen about investment opportunities in Thailand on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York later this month, reported Prachachat.

Chinese investment

Raymond, the Australian National University lecturer, anticipates that the new Thai government will support more Chinese investment in existing projects such as the Eastern Economic Corridor and 5G infrastructure. The corridor includes Rayong, Chonburi, and Chachoengsao provinces, and China has made more than 10% of the project's total foreign investment from 2018 to this year's first quarter as Xinhua reported.

Chinese companies like Huawei and ZTE Corporation are partnering with Thai telecom companies in applying 5G in various industries, as well as launching a 5G hub in Thailand, the Bangkok Post reported.

"Pheu Thai has generally been in favor of increased economic integration with China," he noted.

According to the Board of Investment of Thailand, China last year channeled $2.3 billion to Thailand via industries such as electronics, automotive and data centers. The U.S. companies, meanwhile, invested $1.8 billion in Thailand through 33 projects. Zawacki also said the new government may give more importance to a high-speed railway project initiated in 2010 with a construction agreement signed by the Thai and Chinese governments in 2014. The project, a line connecting Bangkok to Kunming in China via Laos, is worth $5.4 billion, AFP reported.

Progress has been slow. As of now, there is only a $5 billion construction contract for the section connecting Bangkok with Korat, a province in northeast Thailand that is the nation's largest. The line is part of a project that will link high-speed rail in Thailand with a rail line in Laos that is key to China's Belt and Road Initiative in Southeast Asia.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet will seek to strengthen ties with China when he visits Beijing later this week, analysts said.

Hun Manet will make an official visit to China from Sept. 14 to 16, China's Foreign Ministry announced Monday.

The son of Hun Sen, who led the Southeast Asian nation for almost four decades, Hun Manet took office on Aug. 22.

"At the invitation of Premier Li Qiang of the State Council, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun will pay an official visit to China," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said in a statement.

Last week, Hun Manet, a 45-year-old West Point graduate, said Cambodia's new government will maintain an "unchanged stance" on Beijing's "One China" policy, and a "non-interference policy" toward China.

The One China policy views Taiwan as an inalienable part of China. Taiwan, a self-governing island, disputes Beijing's claim to its territory.

In Beijing, Hun Manet is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and hold a meeting with Premier Li Qiang on bilateral and multilateral cooperation, Cambodia's Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Tuesday.

"As Cambodia and China are commemorating the 65th Anniversary of the Diplomatic Relations and the Year of Friendship, this forthcoming visit of Samdech Thipadei HUN Manet is poised to further consolidate the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Cooperation between the two nations," the statement said.

Hun Manet will also participate in the 20th ASEAN-China Expo Sept. 16-17 in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.



Mao said China hopes that the visit will "chart the course for the comprehensive strategic cooperation between the two countries in the next stage."

Maintaining close ties with Beijing amid increasing U.S.-China strategic competition is likely to top the agenda during the trip, according to analysts.

"Cambodia-China's alignment on certain foreign policy agendas is sure. When two countries have a strong political and diplomatic tie, they offer mutual supports on certain agendas," Chhay Lim, a visiting fellow at the Center for Southeast Asian Studies at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, wrote in an email to VOA Khmer on Tuesday.



It is clear, he added, that Cambodia supports Beijing's One China policy and regards its stance on Xinjiang, Hong Kong and Taiwan as domestic issues.



"In return, China supports Cambodia's development, despite the West's criticism of [former prime minister] Hun Sen's regime on human rights violations, oppression on political activists, and so on and so forth," Chhay Lim said.

Cambodia is drawing closer to China and their relationship has been elevated to what Beijing calls the Diamond Hexagon cooperation framework.

Established in February, it focuses on six priority areas: political cooperation, production capacity and quality, agriculture, energy, security, and people-to-people exchanges, according to China's state media outlet, Xinhua.

Cambodia has long supported China, including at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, in return for receiving significant investments, loans and grants from China to build infrastructure, according to analysts.

Cambodia decided not to join ASEAN's first joint military drills this month, proposed by Indonesia, current chair of the bloc, which aims to exercise in the contested South China Sea much of which China claims as its own.



"Cambodia doesn't want to participate [in the drills] because Cambodia doesn't want to have strife with China," Em Sovannara, a political science professor in Phnom Penh, told VOA Khmer on Wednesday.

As chair of ASEAN in 2012, Cambodia was criticized for blocking a joint communique on the South China Sea because Cambodia defended China's position on the disputed waters.

Last week, ASEAN  a bloc of 10 Southeast Asian nations that operates on the principle of consensus and noninterference of sovereignty  remained divided over how to deal with China's aggressive behavior in the disputed waters.



Yulius Hermawan, a lecturer on international relations at Parahyangan Catholic University in Bandung, Indonesia, told VOA Khmer in an email it is worrying that ASEAN leaders failed to show a united response to China, which "may reflect a high degree of China's ability to steer ASEAN as a regional bloc."

Among ASEAN member states, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei are official claimants against China.

They failed to bring the other six members  Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Singapore and Thailand  on board to address the South China Sea disputes in a joint statement at the bloc's annual summit ended last week.

Some speculate Cambodia could seek to engage with Western nations while keeping close ties with China.

Chhay Lim, a Cambodian scholar, said Hun Manet clearly understands the Western perspectives, saying the main question is not whether Cambodia will change its China strategy, but whether Phnom Penh can "formulate strategies to engage with Western nations or to cultivate more friendly relations with them" for potential economic benefits, given that the U.S. and the EU remain its largest export markets.

Additional reporting in Phnom Penh by Han Noy and Sim Chansamnang.
Beijing on Thursday blasted the launch of a probe by the European Commission into China's electric vehicle (EV) subsidies as protectionist and warned it would damage economic and trade relations, as shares in Chinese EV makers slid.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the investigation on Wednesday, accusing China of flooding global markets with electric cars that had artificially low prices because of huge state subsidies.

The probe, which could result in punitive tariffs, has prompted analyst warnings of retaliatory action from Beijing as well as pushback from Chinese industry executives who say the sector's competitive advantage was not due to subsidies.

The investigation "is a naked protectionist act that will seriously disrupt and distort the global automotive industry and supply chain, including the EU, and will have a negative impact on China-EU economic and trade relations," China's Ministry of Commerce said in a statement.

"China will pay close attention to the EU's protectionist tendencies and follow-up actions, and firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies," it added.

Eurasian Group analysts warned that should Brussels ultimately levy duties against subsidized Chinese EVs, Beijing would likely impose countermeasures to hurt European industries.

Other analysts said the probe could slow capacity expansion by China's battery suppliers, although the move should not pose a big risk for Chinese EV makers because they could turn to other growing markets like Southeast Asia.

Still, it could hurt perceptions of Chinese EV makers as they expand abroad, Bernstein analysts said in a client note.

The manufacturers have been accelerating export efforts as slowing consumer demand in China exacerbates production overcapacity.

Hong Kong-listed shares of market leader BYD fell more than 3%. Smaller rivals Xpeng and Geely Auto dropped 0.6%, while Nio slid 2%.

Shanghai-listed shares of state-owned car giant SAIC, whose MG brand is the best-selling China-made brand in Europe, fell as much as 3.4%.

Nio and Geely declined to comment on the EU probe, while BYD, Xpeng and SAIC did not respond to requests for comment.

The Shenzhen-listed shares of battery maker CATL fell more than 1%. CATL did not respond immediately to a request for comment.

Shares in European carmakers were also among the biggest fallers on the euro zone stock index in early trading. BMW, Volkswagen, Mercedes and Stellantis were down between 1.3% and 2.1% at 0728 GMT.

Strained relations

The anti-subsidy probe, initiated unusually by the European Commission and not from any industry complaint, comes amid broader diplomatic strains between the EU and China.

Relations have become tense due to Beijing's ties with Moscow after Russian forces swept into Ukraine, and the EU's push to rely less on the world's second-largest economy, which is also its No.1 trading partner.

The EV probe will set the agenda and tone for bilateral talks ahead of the annual China-EU Summit, set to take place before year-end, with a focus returning to EU demands for wider access to the Chinese market and a rebalance of a trade relationship that Brussels describes as "imbalanced."

Cui Dongshu, the secretary general of the China Passenger Car Association, said on his personal WeChat account on Thursday that he was personally "strongly against" the review and urged the EU to take an objective view of the industry's development and not "arbitrarily use" economic or trade tools.

The price of China-made cars exported to Europe is generally almost double the price they sell for in China, he added. Underscoring challenges facing established European automakers as they battle growing competition from China, Volkswagen is looking at cutting staff at its plant in eastern Germany due to low demand for EVs, the dpa news agency reported on Wednesday.

Growing market share

EU officials believe Chinese EVs are undercutting the prices of local models by about 20% in the European market, piling pressure on European automakers to produce lower-cost EVs.

The European Commission said China's share of EVs sold in Europe had risen to 8% and could reach 15% in 2025.

In 2022, 35% of all exported electric cars originated from China, 10 percentage points higher than the previous year, according to U.S. think-tank the Center for Strategic and Internal Studies.

Most of the vehicles, and the batteries they are powered by, were destined for Europe where 16% of batteries and vehicles sold were made in China in 2022, it said.

The single largest exporter from China is U.S. giant Tesla, CSIS data showed. It accounted for 40.25% of EV exports from China between January and April 2023.
In what appears to be the latest of Beijings crackdowns on freedom of expression, China is circulating a draft version of a law that would punish people for wearing clothes that are deemed detrimental or hurtful to China's spirit or sentiments."

Violators could be detained for five to 10 days and fined as much as 5,000 yuan, or $687.67, a significant amount in a nation where the per capita income hovers near 100,000 yuan, or just over $13,700, according to the International Monetary Fund. Online public response has been withering, calling the proposed law overintervention and absurd.

According to Article 34-2 of the revised draft, the Public Security Administration Punishment Law, which was recently reviewed and promulgated by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of China, targets people who "wear clothes, accessories or symbols themselves or force others to wear clothes, accessories or symbols in public that are deemed detrimental or hurtful to China's spirit or sentiments."

During the pandemic, Chinese authorities intensified control of what was already heavily restricted online freedom of expression by removing online footage of protests against Draconian lockdowns. The so-called Great Firewall controls the flow of information into and out of the country.

Chen Jiangang, a former Chinese human rights lawyer now living in Maryland, told VOA Mandarin that the law shows that the Chinese Communist Party wants to control even what we ordinary people wear.

What about free speech?

Xu Lin, a member of the Independent Chinese PEN Center in Guangzhou, believes that people's clothing and accessories should not be criminalized and elevated to the level of "harming the Chinese nation's spirit and feelings."

He told VOA Mandarin, "Wearing clothes is completely a matter of personal freedom. Even if he expresses a certain meaning, doesn't that fall within the scope of freedom of speech? Everyone has the right to express his or her position and opinions."

Lao Dongyan, a professor of criminal law at Tsinghua University, posted on Weibo, the Chinese equivalent of X, "The direct interference of state power in people's daily clothing is obviously overintervention. ... Such an amendment may stimulate the wanton spread of populist or ultranationalist sentiments and further deteriorate the public sphere. The public opinion environment should not suppress individuals' free space for daily dressing and speech."

Liu Zhengqing, a former lawyer in Guangzhou, said China's laws have always been enacted according to the CCP's wishes and based on policy needs.

He told VOA Mandarin, "The Communist Party now does whatever they want. They don't make laws and have strict procedures like Western countries. They are very arbitrary."

The law may have its roots in Chinas growing nationalism. A lawyer in Beijing, who asked not to be named to avoid attracting official attention, pointed to the arrest and detention on August 10, 2022, of a woman in Suzhou who wore a kimono for cosplaying as a character from a Japanese manga series.

Although Japanese manga, anime and games are popular in China, resentment runs deep in over the refusal of Japans government to apologize for war crimes during the Sino-Japanese wars. Photos and video of the kimono-clad woman went viral at a sensitive time a few days later, on the August 15 anniversary of Japans announced surrender at the end of World War II in 1945.

Lengthy detention

Online videos showed local police yelling at the woman, "You are Chinese, but you are wearing a kimono!," before detaining her on suspicion of provoking quarrels and trouble, a vague denunciation used routinely by Chinese authorities against dissidents, journalists and activists.

During the more than five-hour detention, the woman was lectured, the photos of her in the kimono were deleted and her kimono was confiscated. She also had to write a confession.

At the time, some netizens supported the police, saying, "The girl in the kimono hurt national sentiments." The Chinese state-run media, CCTV, also said, "It's not that we are too sensitive, but that what we experienced was too painful."

From Japans invasion of the resource-rich Chinese province of Manchuria in 1931 until its defeat, at least 20 million Chinese people died.

Other netizens supported the woman's freedom to dress, claiming that the law did not stipulate that she could not wear a kimono and that it did not involve sensitive times and places. "Why is it a crime to wear a kimono?" asked one. "You shouldn't wear a suit either. Have you forgotten that your ancestors were oppressed by the Europeans?"

Although the police later returned the kimono to the woman, they did not apologize.

If the draft becomes law, the Suzhou incident would likely be a violation.

Xu said that if the draft becomes law, defining what constitutes a violation will be key to preventing abuse.

He said, "What is considered to be hurting national sentiments? Without a clear definition, it would be up to law enforcement officers to define it: If they say yes, then yes; if they say no, then no. It will easily lead to abuse of power."

Space for corruption

Lao Dongyan, a professor of criminal law at Tsinghua University, said on Weibo, "'Harming and hurting the spirit and sentiments of the Chinese nation' is a concept with extremely vague connotations. Different people will have completely different understandings."

In another post, she said, "Due to vague punishment standards, it will inevitably lead to selective enforcement of administrative power, which is prone to abuse of power, creating new space for the growth of corruption, and may intensify conflicts between the police and the public, bringing new risks to social stability."

Some netizens posted a photo on X, formerly known as Twitter, showing former Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping bowing during a visit to Japan in 1978 when he asked the government and major companies for economic assistance. The post said, "Excuse me, has he committed the crime of hurting the feelings of the Chinese nation? How should he be punished?"

Adrianna Zhang contributed to this report.
Government officials in Cameroon and the Central African Republic say the number of civilian kidnappings has spiked along their borders, with armed gangs and rebels demanding as much as $50,000 in ransom.

In addition to the abductions, the rebels and armed gangs loot markets and ranches and send villagers fleeing for safety, said officials in Cameroon's eastern border with the Central African Republic, or CAR.

Abdoulahi Bobo, a cattle rancher, said his two wives, three children and elder brother have yet to be found a week after they were taken to the bush by armed men. He said the abductors called him and demanded payment of about $10,000 to secure his family's freedom.

Bobo spoke to VOA by messaging app on Thursday from Cameroons eastern district of Ngaoui, which borders Mont Ngaoui, the highest point in the Central African Republic. He said his family may have been taken to the mountain or neighboring forests.

Cameroon and CAR said rebel attacks are reported on both sides of the border almost daily.

Oumarou Abbo, mayor of Nyambaka, the capital of Cameroons Nyambaka district, said the rebels and armed gangs also attack remote communities throughout the district, so he has created militias in all the villages of his district to help government troops fight hostage takers. The militias are expected to report strangers as well as places where rebels and armed gangs hide, he said.

Cameroon and CAR officials said that some armed rebels disguise themselves as people displaced by the ongoing armed conflicts in CAR.

The U.N. peacekeeping mission to CAR, known as MINUSCA, which has troops from Cameroon, this week said forces were deployed to border regions to fight the rebels and seize weapons the rebels abandon when attacked. Cameroon and CAR officials said armed gangs often collect weapons abandoned by rebels and use them in either abducting civilians or stealing.

Cameroonian Defense Minister Joseph Beti Assomo said President Paul Biya dispatched him to Motcheboum  about halfway between the capital, Yaounde, and the border with CAR  to mobilize troops for civilian protection.

Kildadi Taguieke Boukar, governor of Cameroon's Adamawa region, said rebel attacks on civilians have also been reported along Cameroon's northern border with Chad. He said that government troops were deployed to the Adamawa region immediately to protect civilians after Assomo's visit.

Boukar said military posts in all districts where the kidnappings are happening have been equipped with enough troops, weapons, artillery, vehicles and tracking devices. Troops with special training to investigate, arrest or eliminate armed gangs and rebels have also been deployed to protect civilians on both sides of the porous and permeable border between Cameroon and the CAR, he said.

In December, defense ministers from Cameroon and the CAR agreed to deploy a joint force along the 900-kilometer (560-mile) border to protect civilians. The ministers said the joint force would also seize weapons that rebels hid in border towns and villages.

Civilians said that after those troops retreated in March, rebels relaunched kidnappings and increased the ransoms from $20,000 to $50,000. Abductees whom rebels suspect of collaborating with government troops are tortured and ordered to pay more, according to border villagers.

Cameroonian military officials said the majority of abductees are merchants and cattle ranchers.

Cameroon officials said the nation is intensifying collaboration with neighboring countries to safeguard civilians.
Unable to pay its employees for two months and grappling with the threat of a cross-border attack from Iran, the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq is facing what its leaders acknowledge is one of the most challenging periods since its establishment in 1991.

Kurdish Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, in a symbolic gesture, rang the bell at a high school in the regional capital, Irbil, on Wednesday to mark the first day of the school year in the Kurdistan region.

While the government footage of the ceremony showed smiling faces and energetic students, the scenes outside spoke otherwise as many schools in the region remained closed because of a widespread strike called by the teachers union to protest unpaid salaries for July and August.

Doctors and nurses have taken the same action at many hospitals.

I thank our teachers for their perseverance, Barzani said at the school courtyard, where he announced an imminent visit to Baghdad. We want to visit Baghdad so that we can resolve our issues peacefully. Our perseverance is not a sign of our weakness, but it's our commitment to prevent the problems taking another turn.

The visit is part of a prolonged negotiation between the Kurdish and Iraqi governments regarding Kurdish rights and responsibilities and the distribution of revenue under Iraq's budget.

The two governments seemed to have opened a new chapter in their relations on April 4 when Barzani and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced a deal to resume Kurdish oil exports via Turkey. The exports had been halted in late March when an international arbitration panel ruled in favor of Iraq in a dispute over independent oil exports by the Kurdistan Regional Government, or KRG.

Under the deal, Iraq's state-run SOMO company was given the authority to export Kurdish oil. The KRG, in return, was allocated 12.6% of Iraqi revenues.

However, the agreement has not been implemented. While the Iraqi government says the obstacles are merely technical, the Kurds say that they are political, and that Iran is to blame.

The problem is [the] Iraqi budget was approved in Baghdad, but its implementation is in Tehran, said Soran Omar, a Kurdish member of the Iraqi parliament, speaking to local news outlet Rudaw.

Omar said that Iran was seeing the Kurdish desperate need for revenue as a rare opportunity to reduce the KRGs autonomy.

Home to large Kurdish populations, both Iran and Turkey have for years been troubled by the growing power of Kurds in Iraq. The two countries supported Baghdad in 2017 when the KRG held a controversial referendum on independence.

In an interview with VOA last week, KRG spokesperson Peshawa Hawrami spoke of an intent to punish and downplay the KRG. The Iraqi government treats the Kurdistan region [as] less than a province, Hawrami said.

Haval Abubakir, the governor of Kurdish Sulaymaniyah province, similarly warned of an effort to end the Kurdistan region entity.

Kurds say that Iran is using the perceived weakness of the KRG to push deeper into Kurdish territory in northern Iraq  justifying its actions as a response to the presence in the area of Iranian Kurdish militants.

I think the target here is the Kurdistan region itself.  The budget issue, stopping oil exports and not paying the Kurdish salaries are all Iranian and Turkish policies," said Hassan Rahman Pana, the deputy secretary of the Kurdish political group Komala, in an interview with VOA.

Iranian officials in recent weeks have escalated their threats of military action should Iraq fail to implement a mutual security agreement signed in March. The deal calls for Iraq to disarm and relocate Iranian Kurdish exiled groups located in Iraqi Kurdistan.

The exiled groups, believed to include thousands of fighters and their families, have for decades campaigned for Kurdish independence in western Iran, where more than 10 million Kurds are believed to reside.

Iran says the groups pose a threat to its security and has demanded that they be disarmed and relocated by September 19.

On Wednesday, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein visited Tehran and met with high-ranking officials, including President Ebrahim Raisi. Hussein announced ahead of the visit that Baghdad has started to disarm and transfer the Iranian Kurdish opposition to refugee camps far from the Iran-Iraq border.

Meanwhile, according to Hengaw Organization for Human Rights, a Norway-based Kurdish rights group, Iran has begun a military deployment to its borders with Iraqi Kurdistan.

"Iran has moved a large number of troops from Hamadan, Zanjan and Tabriz to the border areas of the Kurdistan region, Arsalan Yar Ahmadi, a member of the organization, told VOA.

Pana, the Komala deputy secretary, said he does not expect Iran will begin a cross-border operation anytime soon. He suggested the deployment is intended to prevent instability ahead of the September 16 anniversary of the death of Iranian Kurd Mahsa Amini, which sparked widespread protests last year. Amini died in police custody days after she was arrested for allegedly violating the countrys strict dress code.

The atmosphere in the cities is militaristic and some activists have been arrested, Pana told VOA. The internet has been turned very slow, and the electricity is weakened in some Kurdish cities. They are afraid that the revolution will resume on the anniversary. They want to mislead the Iranian people.

Fabrice Balanche is an associate professor and research director at the University of Lyon 2 and a fellow at the Washington Institute. He suggested in an interview that the Kurds are facing increased pressure from regional powers because they are no longer considered strategically important for the West in the fight against Islamic State.

What you see in the Middle East today is that the West is weak. I dont think that the U.S. wants to reinvest in Syria and Iraq. My opinion is that for the U.S., this is lost vis-a-vis the Iranian axes, Balanche said.

Unfortunately, the Kurds are not anymore useful in the fight, Balanche said. They dont want to support them again. That is why you see Turkey and Iran using this weakness to destroy the Kurdish autonomy or independence.

This story originated in VOA's Kurdish Service with contributions from Snur Karim, Diyar Jamal and Dilshad Anwar.
Four former Memphis police officers pleaded not guilty Wednesday to federal civil rights charges in the violent beating and death of Tyre Nichols after a traffic stop nine months ago.

Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Desmond Mills and Justin Smith were led by U.S. marshals into a courtroom wearing handcuffs and leg restraints for their first hearing since they were charged Tuesday with using excessive force and conspiring to lie about the January 7 beating of Nichols as he cried out for his mother just steps from his home.

Magistrate Judge Charmiane G. Claxton accepted the not guilty pleas from lawyers for the four officers, who were fired for violations of Memphis Police Department policy after Nichols died, three days the beating. He was punched, kicked and hit with a baton in a pummeling that was caught on police video.

A fifth officer who was also fired and indicted by a federal grand jury, Emmitt Martin, was scheduled to make his first appearance Thursday. All five were charged with deprivation of rights under the color of law through excessive force and failure to intervene, and through deliberate indifference; conspiracy to witness tampering; and obstruction of justice through witness tampering.

The five officers also have been charged in state court with second-degree murder and other alleged offenses in the beating death of Nichols, which is one of several violent encounters between police and Black people that have sparked protests and renewed debate about police brutality and police reform in the U.S.

The five former officers, all Black like Nichols, have pleaded not guilty to the state charges as well.

Claxton ordered the release of the four officers who were present in court Wednesday on a $50,000 unsecured bond, which means that they don't have to pay any money unless they fail to appear in court.
KYODO NEWS - Sep 14, 2023 - 18:16 | World, All, Japan

A Japanese woman on death row for drug trafficking in Malaysia will appeal for a lesser punishment, her lawyer has said, through a recently enacted law allowing such prisoners to petition the country's highest court for sentence reduction.

Mariko Takeuchi, 49, lost her appeal at the Federal Court in 2015, which upheld lower court rulings in which the former nurse was sentenced to hang for trafficking 3.5 kilograms of methamphetamine into Malaysia in 2009.

The new law allowing prisoners sentenced to death or life imprisonment to seek reduced sentences, came into force Tuesday as part of the judicial reform that eliminated mandatory death sentencing for 11 serious offenses, including drug trafficking, murder and terrorism.

Takeuchi testified at trial that she did not know about the drugs found in a suitcase she brought to Kuala Lumpur International Airport from Dubai. She has pleaded innocent, maintaining that she was carrying the suitcase as a favor for an Iranian acquaintance.

The woman from Japan's Aomori Prefecture, who has been incarcerated since her arrest in 2009, is the first Japanese tried for drug trafficking in Malaysia and the first sentenced to death.

Although Malaysia still maintains capital punishment, judges have the discretion under the reformed system to review a sentence and mete out other forms of punishment to those who committed the serious crimes after examining court proceedings as well as grounds of the judgement.

Under the new law, Takeuchi could still face the death sentence for drug trafficking or a jail term of between 30 and 40 years, according to her lawyer.

Law minister Azalina Othman Said has said the law applies retrospectively so that prisoners on death row or facing life imprisonment can be given a chance to return to society and their families.

The Japanese woman's lawyer Hisyam Teh Poh Teik told Kyodo News on Monday his law firm has notified the court that it is ready to submit documents needed for the review of Takeuchi's sentence on her behalf.

According to government statistics, some 1,000 convicts including Takeuchi are currently on death row or jailed for life.
Hunter Biden, the son of U.S. President Joe Biden, was indicted Thursday, with prosecutors alleging that he illegally bought a gun at a time when he admittedly was using cocaine and lied about his drug use so he could buy the firearm.

The indictment of the 53-year-old presidential offspring immediately injected a new element into the 2024 U.S. presidential election campaign. Joe Biden is seeking reelection and his leading Republican opponent, former President Donald Trump, is facing an unprecedented four criminal indictments encompassing 91 charges.

The younger Biden could face trial on three gun-related charges in the coming months.

Two charges stem from Biden's completion of a form required for gun purchases; when he bought a Colt Cobra Special at a Wilmington, Delaware, gun shop in October 2018, he is alleged to have lied when he checked a box saying he was not a user of or addicted to drugs. The third charge alleges that he illegally possessed the gun as a drug user.

The indictment of the younger Biden was not unexpected, with special counsel David Weiss announcing days ago that charges would be filed by the end of September.

Lawyer cites political pressure

Hunter Bidens lawyer, Abbe Lowell, accused Weiss of bowing to political pressure from Republicans in charging the presidents son.

Hunter Biden possessing an unloaded gun for 11 days was not a threat to public safety, but a prosecutor, with all the power imaginable, bending to political pressure presents a grave threat to our system of justice, Lowell said.

The prosecutor's announcement of the indictment came after the collapse in July of a plea deal in which Hunter Biden would have pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor tax charges, likely without being imprisoned, and been spared prosecution on the gun charge by staying out of trouble and agreeing to never again own a gun.

But the plea deal unraveled when the younger Biden's attorneys and prosecutors disagreed in court about whether Biden, as part of the plea deal, was being granted permanent immunity from any prosecution linked to an ongoing Weiss investigation into millions of dollars Biden has been paid in recent years from business deals in Ukraine and China.

Lawyers for the younger Biden argued at the July hearing that their understanding of the plea deal was that he would no longer face possible prosecution for his overseas earnings and business deals, while prosecutors said that was not the case. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika ended the proceeding, with Weiss pledging to continue his probe.

Defense attorneys have argued that a provision of the original plea deal that would have allowed Biden to avoid prison time by participating in a special training program remains in effect. Prosecutors have maintained that the provision, known as a gun diversion, never took effect.

Aside from the gun purchase charges, Hunter Biden could still face prosecution on the tax charges and his overseas business deals.

2024 campaign

The Hunter Biden case has quickly become an integral part of the 2024 political landscape in the U.S.

Republican political opponents of President Biden called the negotiated plea agreement "a sweetheart deal."

More broadly, Trump and his political supporters in Congress have alleged, without evidence, that President Biden reaped millions of dollars from Hunter Biden's overseas business deals. Some Republicans are characterizing the president and his relatives as "the Biden crime family."

President Biden has denied collecting any such largesse through his son, at one point laughing it off with a pointed rejoinder, "Where's the money?" The U.S. leader has also denied being involved in his son's businesses.

One Hunter Biden business associate, Devon Archer, testified to Congress that the younger Biden would often call his father while he was dining in restaurants with his business associates, perhaps to impress his friends about his access to the family's power in Washington.

But Archer also told a House of Representative committee, "I think you have to understand that there was no business conversation about a cap table or a fee or anything like that. It was, you know, just general niceties and, you know, conversation in general about the geography, about the weather, whatever it may be."

Committee probes

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy this week ordered three congressional committees to open an impeachment inquiry into any links the president had with his son's businesses and the millions of dollars he was paid.

House Republicans, McCarthy said, "uncovered serious and credible allegations into President Biden's conduct."

"These are allegations of abuse of power, obstruction and corruption," he said. "They warrant further investigation by the House of Representatives."

Republicans are expected to subpoena the president's bank account information to see if the younger Biden sent him money while Joe Biden was vice president from 2009 to 2017 or perhaps paid some of the elder Biden's personal expenses, as has been alleged by Biden family critics.

The White House and congressional Democrats have assailed the impeachment inquiry and said the House Republicans carrying it out have shown no evidence of wrongdoing by Joe Biden.
Italy is considering whether to leave the Belt and Road Initiative, Beijing's multibillion-dollar global trade and infrastructure program, by the end of the year. The dilemma comes amid geopolitical pressures from Western allies and domestic disappointment that the program has not delivered the economic benefits that the country hoped for.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni spoke to reporters after meeting the Chinese delegation at last week's G20 summit in New Delhi.

"There are European nations which in recent years haven't been part of the Belt and Road but have been able to forge more favorable relations [with China] than we have sometimes managed," Meloni said. "The issue is how to guarantee a partnership that is beneficial for both sides, leaving aside the decision that we will take on the BRI."

BRI benefits?

Italy signed on to China's BRI in 2019, the only member of the Group of 7 most advanced economies  including Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States  to do so. But Italy has not received the expected economic benefits, Filippo Boni, a lecturer in politics and international studies at the Open University in England, told VOA.

"From the Italian side, the idea was to both try and boost its exports but also to make a political move towards Brussels, as a signal that Italy was able to sign successful deals with third countries independently from the European Union," Boni said, adding that Meloni is seeking to make a clear break with previous [Italian] governments by forging new relationships with China and the EU.

"There is a growing realization that the memorandum of understanding that was signed with China in March 2019 did not really bring the benefits that were expected," he said. "Trade balance is still heavily tilted in China's favor, and Italian exports to China did not pick up, did not see the increase that those who wanted [the BRI] were envisaging and hoping for."

Geopolitics

There are also geopolitical reasons for Italy rethinking its membership in China's BRI, said Luigi Scazzieri, a senior research fellow at the Centre for European Reform.

"There's come to be a certain diplomatic stigma attached to it, partly because the whole of the West is rethinking its relationship with China," Scazzieri told VOA. "And Italy being the only G7 country having signed up to the Belt and Road makes it, on the other hand, look like it's trying to get closer to Beijing."

Italy's Western allies are reducing their reliance on some Chinese imports and restricting the sale of technologies such as advanced semiconductors to Beijing.

In recent years, Italy's government has blocked the sale of some of its biggest companies to Chinese firms, such as the tire maker Pirelli, under its so-called Golden Power rules.

"It's really a clear signal the government in Rome is sending to its partners in the European Union, and Washington most importantly, about Italy's position on the international chess board," Boni said.

Chinas response

Questioned about Italy's potential departure from the BRI this week, China's Foreign Ministry insisted the program brings benefits to its members.

"The Belt and Road Initiative has attracted more than 150 countries and a wide range of partners in various fields over the past 10 years and has brought tangible benefits to the people of all countries," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters. "It is in the interests of all participating countries to further tap the potential of cooperation."

Italy is choosing its language carefully and said it wants to boost trade with Beijing outside the BRI, Scazzieri said.

"The fear of Beijing reacting in a negative way has been precisely why Meloni has been quite careful about how to go about extracting Italy from BRI," he said.

Italy already has a strategic partnership with China, an agreement Beijing has signed with many countries aimed at fostering economic and cultural ties. It's likely Rome will seek to amend that document in the hope of replacing its BRI membership with a looser relationship.

"Given the centrality that 'strategic partnerships' have in China's foreign policy  as of the end of last year, there were 110 strategic partnerships that China signed with countries globally  I think it might be a good way out of the Belt and Road Initiative for both countries to say, 'We're still engaged in bilateral cooperation,' " Boni said.
NASA said on Thursday it has selected a research director to investigate UFO sightings on the recommendation of an independent panel of experts.

Administrator Bill Nelson, who made the announcement, has yet to identify the appointee.

The unidentified anomalous phenomena, or UAP, is the official term for what most call UFOs  unidentified flying objects. The panel, which included physicists, astronomers and biologists, wouldn't say whether eyewitness accounts of UAP prove the existence of life beyond our horizons.

That's still an open question, according to Nelson. "If you ask me do I believe there's life in a universe that's so vast that it's hard for me to comprehend how big it is, my personal answer is, 'Yes,'" he said.

In his statement, Nelson conceded that "[NASA scientists] don't know what these UAP are."

In 2021, the national intelligence director published a comprehensive report, sharing never-before-seen scientific data and military observations on coastal sightings of UAP. Some of the high-flying objects are said to outpace and outmaneuver even the best fighter jets, without any apparent thrust or flight control systems.

UAP have mystified Americans since June 1947, when newspapers first reported that a metallic "flying saucer" appeared in the sky over mountain ranges in Washington state. Sensational accounts of UAP sightings have cropped up all over the world since, including the debunked Roswell, New Mexico incident that made headlines that same year.

For the better part of a century, conspiracy theorists have accused the government of withholding facts or even lying to the public. But Nelson promised that NASA's incoming research director would disclose all UAP-related developments to "shift the conversation about UAP from sensationalism to science."

The director will manage "centralized communications, resources and data analytical capabilities to establish a robust database for the evaluation of future UAP," NASA said.

The appointment comes as academics claim to be making inroads in the search for extraterrestrial life. In recent weeks, the controversial Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb recovered tiny meteorite fragments off the coast of Papua New Guinea. His team is evaluating whether the unusual metallic samples are bits of alien technology.

Some information for this report was provided by Reuters.
Pakistan is set to reopen the main Torkham border crossing with landlocked Afghanistan on Friday following a nine-day closure because of terrorism and other security concerns, according to officials in both countries.

The development came after the Taliban's foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, promised during a meeting Thursday with Islamabad's acting ambassador in Kabul that the group would not permit the use of Afghan soil to carry out acts of terrorism against Pakistan, a Pakistani official told VOA on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to interact with the media publicly.



Muttaqis office said that in the meeting with the Pakistani envoy, Ubaid Nizamani, they discussed the border closure and problems facing Afghan refugees and traders in Pakistan. The statement said both sides emphasized the need for addressing these issues, but it gave no other details.



Late Thursday, the Taliban state news agency quoted a senior border official, Esmatullah Yaqoob, as announcing to Afghan travelers, including patients seeking medical treatment in Pakistani hospitals, that the Torkham gate will open for passengers and transit on Friday morning.



A Pakistani border security official confirmed that all immigration and security personnel have been instructed to return to duties early Friday to facilitate pedestrian and vehicular traffic through the Torkham gate.



Pakistan temporarily closed the busy transit point for trade and travelers on September 6 after security forces from the two countries exchanged fire. The clashes killed two Afghans, including a Taliban guard. The incident occurred shortly after militants had staged a deadly cross-border assault on Pakistani outposts elsewhere along the 2,600-kilometer frontier separating the two countries.



The Torkham closure has stranded hundreds of trucks carrying commercial goods, mostly fresh Afghan fruits and vegetables, and thousands of travelers on both sides of the border.



Earlier Thursday, the Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesperson indicated at a weekly news conference that Islamabad could soon open the Torkham crossing.



I must underline that the closure of the border is temporary. And we will make the decision regarding its opening in view of the developments that take place in the coming hours and days, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said without elaborating.



Islamabad defended its decision to shut the Torkham transit point, saying Taliban authorities were trying to build unlawful structures on its territory and opened fire when challenged by Pakistani security forces.



Pakistani officials said the attack on the same day against two outposts in the northern Chitral border district was carried out by hundreds of heavily armed militants from bases on the Afghan side. The Pakistani military said four soldiers and 12 assailants died in the raid.



Pakistan is concerned about the security threat emanating from Afghanistan  and that is why it is important for the Afghan interim authorities to ensure that Afghan territory is not used to threaten Pakistan, Baloch said Thursday.



The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP, claimed responsibility for the Chitral attack. The banned militant group has for years been plotting bombings and other terrorist attacks in Pakistan.



Islamabad says TTP leaders and fighters have increased cross-border raids from Afghan soil since the Taliban seized power in Kabul two years ago. Taliban authorities reject the charges.



Pakistani security sources asserted that scores of Afghan Taliban fighters had joined TTP in the Chitral raid, saying Islamabad shared the evidence with Kabul to substantiate its claims.



TTP, also known as the Pakistani Taliban, is listed as a global terrorist organization by the United States. It is an offshoot and close ally of the Afghan Taliban.



Tom West, the U.S. special representative for Afghanistan, said Tuesday that TTP "is posing the greatest threat" to regional stability. "We see a very significant increase in [TTP] attacks directed at Pakistan, he told a seminar in Washington.

West said the militant group had helped the Taliban mount insurgent attacks against American and NATO troops, which left the country in August 2021 after nearly 20 years of involvement in the Afghan war.



"They became allies of the Taliban during the war. They were financial supporters, logistical supporters and operational allies, as well. I think the ties between them are quite tight, the U.S. envoy noted.



The United Nations estimated in its latest assessment that at least 4,000 TTP operatives are based in Afghanistan.
Search-and-rescue teams worked Thursday in eastern Libya, where devastating floods left thousands of people dead and thousands more missing.

The Libyan Red Crescent said the death toll from Sunday's floods in the city of Derna had risen to 11,300, and an additional 10,100 people were reported missing.

The Associated Press quoted eastern Libya's health minister, Othman Abduljaleel, as saying 3,000 bodies had been buried, with 2,000 more still being processed.

Abdulmenam al-Ghaithi, the mayor of Derna, told al-Arabia television that the death toll could reach 20,000.

Derna was the hardest-hit area, with torrential rain and dam failures wrecking buildings, burying areas in mud and washing people out to sea.

Eastern Libya officials issued warnings and on Saturday ordered residents to evacuate coastal areas. But there was no warning about the dams collapsing.

The storm also killed about 170 people in other parts of eastern Libya, the health minister said.

World Meteorological Organization Secretary-General Petteri Taalas told reporters Thursday in Geneva that "most of the human casualties" could have been avoided if Libya had a functional weather service.

"If they would have been a normally operating meteorological service, they could have issued warnings," he said. "The emergency management authorities would have been able to carry out the evacuation."

The U.N. humanitarian office issued an emergency appeal for $71.4 million to respond to the urgent needs of 250,000 Libyans most affected. About 884,000 people live in areas directly affected by the rain and flooding, the office said.

U.S. President Joe Biden said the United States would send money to relief organizations and coordinate with Libyan authorities and the U.N.

The international aid effort has included teams from Italy, Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, Turkey, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

Also speaking Thursday in Geneva, World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told reporters the agency was deploying contingency supplies that already were in the country, and that 28 tons of trauma, surgical and emergency supplies were scheduled to arrive Friday from the WHO hub in Dubai.

Tedros said WHO also had activated its network of emergency medical teams and was releasing $2 million from its Contingency Fund for Emergencies to support its response.

The International Organization for Migration said Wednesday that the flooding had displaced at least 30,000 people in Derna, as well as thousands more in other areas.

Atiyah Alhasadi, 30, a teacher from Derna, told VOA's Heather Murdock he was in his home in the center of the city when he heard what sounded like "20 million drums exploding," and water crashed in, rising 50 meters above the houses.

Alhasadi said he and his family went to the roof of the building, because the lower floors were flooded immediately, and watched the water rise to the fourth or fifth floors of some buildings. He said his two aunts on the first floor died in the initial rush of water, but his family was able to escape to a relative's home on higher ground.

Now, he said, he is with five or six families in one small house, searching for a vehicle to get to Benghazi or another town.

"We can't find gasoline, fuel or water," he said.

Alhasadi said people also needed mattresses and medicine, but there was no available humanitarian aid to be found. He noted people were sleeping on the streets without tents and said the only hospital was barely functioning. It was just a makeshift hospital, while the actual one was under construction.

Hesham Gasar, 42, a diplomatic security guard, told VOA he was in Tripoli when the flooding started, and he immediately drove to Derna. He said the eight members of his cousin's family were missing.

"We are trying to find missing people," he said. "Everything washed away with floods  houses, money, belongings. Everything was taken. It's like a nightmare.

"Some people survived, but they are looking for their families and finding themselves alone and wishing they died with them," he said. "It's an unreal feeling."

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
Clashes intensified Wednesday in Lebanon's largest Palestinian refugee camp, leaving at least five people dead and more than a dozen wounded, Lebanese state media and security officials said. Scores of civilians have been forced to flee to safer areas.

The latest deaths bring to 11 the number of people killed since the fighting erupted again in Ein el-Hilweh camp near the southern port city of Sidon on Sept. 7, despite multiple cease-fire agreements.

Stray bullets hit residential areas outside the camp, including several that struck a fire engine as firefighters were battling a blaze near an army post, the state-run National News Agency said. The blaze was not related to the camp fighting.

The fighting broke out last week after nearly a month of calm in Ein el-Hilweh between Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah group and members of militant Islamic factions.

Fatah and other allied factions had intended to crack down on suspects accused of killing a senior Fatah military official in the camp in late July.

NNA reported that among the five killed on Wednesday were three Fatah members. It said 15 people were also wounded in the clashes.

A top official with the Palestinian militant group Hamas, Moussa Abu Marzouk, arrived in Beirut on Tuesday to push for an end to clashes with no success.

Ein el-Hilweh is home to some 55,000 people according to the United Nations and is notorious for its lawlessness and violence.

Lebanon is home to tens of thousands of Palestinian refugees and their descendants. Many live in the 12 refugee camps that are scattered around the small Mediterranean country. Ein el-Hilweh was established in 1948 to house Palestinians who were displaced when Israel was established.
Russias Foreign Ministry said Thursday it has expelled two U.S. Embassy employees from the country, accusing them of working with a Russian national that Moscow had previously accused of spying.

In a statement, the foreign ministry said it had summoned U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy and informed her that the two diplomats  Jeff Sillin and David Bernstein  conducted "illegal activities by liaising with a Russian citizen, Robert Shonov," and they must leave the territory of Russia within seven days.

Shonov had worked as a local employee at the U.S. consulate in the eastern city of Vladivostok for more than 25 years until Russia ordered the termination of the U.S. mission's local staff in 2021.

Russias Federal Security Service  the FSB  arrested Shonov in May and accused him of cooperating on a confidential basis with a foreign state, alleging he passed information to the United States about Russias war in Ukraine.

Last month, the FSB announced it planned to interrogate Sillin and Bernstein after it accused them of directing Shonov to gather information.

At a news briefing in Washington Thursday, U.S. State Department spokesman Matt Miller reacted to Russias move, saying, This unprovoked expulsion of our diplomatic personnel is wholly without merit.

Referring to Shonov, Miller said he was arrested for the supposedly nefarious task of performing such activities as providing our embassy with media clips. Yet again, Russia has chosen confrontation and escalation over constructive diplomatic engagement."

VOA State Department Correspondent Cindy Saine contributed to this report.
Australias national science agency has installed specialized sensors in the southern section of the Great Barrier Reef to help monitor and forecast sediment runoff. Experts from CSIRO, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization say the discharge can harm the UNESCO World Heritage sites marine ecosystem.

Researchers from CSIRO say their system of sensors, installed over recent months in the southern section of the Great Barrier Reef, is the first such system in the world. It checks water quality using a combination of specialized sensors and satellite data. Details were released Wednesday.

Experts hope to develop an integrated ground-to-space water quality monitoring network using sensors in the water and existing Earth observation satellites. Artificial intelligence would also be used to help analyze the data.

They say Australias coastal and inland waterways quality is being threatened by global warming, urbanization, deforestation and contamination.

The system analyzes the flow of sediment and dissolved organic carbon from the Fitzroy River into Keppel Bay in central Queensland, which is in the southern region of the Great Barrier Reef. The system is designed to provide an early warning of the presence of harmful algae and contaminants.

The reef is one of seven test sites for CSIROs AquaWatch Australia Mission. This is the name of the ground-to-space water monitoring project. The research team hopes to have up to 15 sites testing the system by 2026.

Alex Held, head of the project, told VOA on Thursday that sediments can stop sunlight from reaching the seafloor.

"The sediments can, of course, block light and therefore also reduce the growth and the photosynthesis of seagrass and other algae in the coastal area," Held said. "They can have an effect also if they form a small layer on top of the coral reefs. It is an ongoing issue."

Held said the sensors and satellites will monitor the effectiveness of programs to reduce runoff of river sediment into the sea.

"There are a number of government programs already in place to help with that," Held said. "They will include maintaining vegetation along riverbeds and small tributaries so that the sediments and the erosion is reduced. So, the government is already doing quite a bit of that."

The Great Barrier Reef faces a range of threats, including climate change, pollution and farm pesticide and fertilizer runoff, as well as coral-eating crown of thorns starfish.

The worlds largest coral system runs 2,300 kilometers off Australias northeast coastline and was included on the U.N.s World Heritage List in 1981.

It is the only living thing visible from space.
South Korea has expressed regret that Russia and North Korea discussed military cooperation during their leaders' meeting, as Seoul is closely monitoring the possibility of joint military drills between Pyongyang and Moscow.

Officials said South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol will use his address next week at the United Nations General Assembly to stress grave concern over the military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.

Despite repeated warnings from the international community, I am deeply concerned and regretful that the North Korea-Russia summit has discussed the issue of military cooperation, including satellite development, South Koreas foreign ministry spokesperson Lim Soo-suk told reporters on Thursday.

Seoul is seeking a meeting with Russian diplomats, a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un held talks at Russia's most modern spaceport, the Vostochny Cosmodrome.

Putin has accepted an invitation from Kim to visit North Korea, according to Pyongyang's state media.

We continue to communicate necessarily between South Korea and Russia, said Lim, who warned a Russia-North Korea military cooperation would bring a negative impact to bilateral ties between Moscow and Seoul.

As President Yoon heads to New York next week for the U.N. General Assembly, South Korean officials have renewed warnings. They said Russias science and technology cooperation with North Korea that contributes to its development of nuclear weapons and missiles, including satellites using ballistic missile technology, is prohibited by UNSC resolutions.

South Koreas National Security Council members met Thursday afternoon to discuss North Korean leader Kims visit to Russia.

South Korea is taking the situation very seriously, regarding the fact that various military cooperation, including the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles, was discussed during Kims meeting with Putin, according to South Koreas National Security Council.

We will discuss the issue of North Korea-Russia military cooperation in consultation with the U.S., Japan and the international community.

Thursday, Kim is expected to visit military and civilian aviation factories in the Russian city of Komsomolsk-on-Amur, according to Russias state media.

South Koreas defense ministry said it continues to closely monitor Kims schedule in Russias Far East, and potential joint naval exercises between Russia and North Korea said to be proposed during Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigus visit to Pyongyang in July.

The two sides did not issue a joint statement, but the personnel Kim brought to Russia, and where he and Putin met, were quite telling. The composition of Kims delegation suggests North Korea may send munitions to Russia in exchange for military technology, said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul.

If Putin and Kim just wanted to do an arms deal, they didnt need to meet in person and could have tried to keep their additional sanctions violations secret while continuing to deny them, Easley said. "In addition to supporting each others illegal trade, Moscow and Pyongyang are showcasing their cooperation to score points in domestic politics."

North Korea did not name the members of its delegation, but several top military commanders, arms industry officials and diplomats appear to be accompanying Kim in photos released by North Korean state media, including North Korean Defense Minister Kang Sun Nam and Marshal Pak Jong Chon, new head of the party's military political leadership.

Lee Juhyun contributed to this report. Some information for this report came from Reuters.
The luxury cruise ship MV Ocean Explorer was "successfully" pulled free in Greenland on Thursday, three days after running aground with 206 people on board, authorities and the ship's owner said.

The ship was freed by a fisheries research vessel at high tide, said the cruise ship's owner, Copenhagen-based SunStone Ships and the Arctic Command, which had been coordinating the operation.

It was done "based on a pull from the vessel (owned by the Greenland government) and vessel's own power. There have not been any injuries to anybody onboard, no pollution of the environment and no breach of the hull." The name of the Greenland ship was Tarajoq and it belongs to the Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, a government agency.

The ship's owner added that "the vessel and its passengers will now be positioned to a port where the vessel's bottom damages can be assessed, and the passengers will be taken to a port from which they can be flown back home."

The cruise ship ran aground above the Arctic Circle on Monday in Alpefjord, which is in the Northeast Greenland National Park, the world's northernmost national park. The park is nearly the size of France and Spain combined, and approximately 80% is permanently covered by an ice sheet. Alpefjord sits about 240 kilometers (149 miles) away from the closest settlement, Ittoqqortoormiit, which itself is nearly 1,400 kilometers (870 miles) from the country's capital, Nuuk.

The Bahamas-flagged cruise ship has passengers from Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States. It has an inverted bow, shaped like the one on a submarine, 77 cabins, 151 passenger beds and 99 beds for crew, and several restaurants.

The owner also had "arranged additional tug assistance in case it was needed, however, this has now been canceled."

Earlier Thursday, Australia-based Aurora Expeditions which has chartered the ship, said that three passengers had COVID-19.

"These passengers are currently in isolation. They are looked after by our onboard doctor, medical team and crew, and they are doing well," Aurora Expeditions said in a statement. The others on the MV Ocean Explorer were "safe and healthy," it added.

Australian newspaper The Sydney Morning Herald quoted a retiree from Australia, Steven Fraser, who is on the ship, saying: "Everyone's in good spirits. It's a little bit frustrating, but we are in a beautiful part of the world."

Fraser told the newspaper that he himself had come down with COVID-19 on the ship.

It added that "the vessel and its passengers will now be positioned to a port where the vessel's bottom damages can be assessed, and the passengers will be taken to a port from which they can be flown back home."

The cruise ship ran aground above the Arctic Circle on Monday in Alpefjord, which is in the Northeast Greenland National Park, the world's northernmost national park.

The park is nearly the size of France and Spain combined, and approximately 80% is permanently covered by an ice sheet. Alpefjord sits about 240 kilometers (149 miles) away from the closest settlement, Ittoqqortoormiit, which itself is nearly 1,400 kilometers (870 miles) from the country's capital, Nuuk.

The Bahamas-flagged cruise ship has passengers from Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States. It has an inverted bow, shaped like the one on a submarine, 77 cabins, 151 passenger beds and 99 beds for crew, and several restaurants.

Denmark's Danish Maritime Authority have asked police in Greenland to investigate why the ship ran aground and whether any laws had been violated, a police statement said, adding that no one has been charged or arrested. An officer had been on board the ship to carry out "initial investigative steps, which, among other things, involve questioning the crew and other relevant persons on board," it added.

The cruise liner began its latest trip on Sept. 2 in Kirkenes, in Arctic Norway, and was due to return to Bergen, Norway, on Sept. 22, according to SunStone Ships.

The primary mission of the Joint Arctic Command is to ensure Danish sovereignty by monitoring the area around the Faeroe Islands and Greenland, including the Arctic Ocean in the north. Greenland is a semi-independent territory that is part of the Danish realm, as are the Faeroe Islands.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un appears to be using this weeks much-heralded summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin to tighten his control over a country struggling with international sanctions and a pandemic-stricken economy, analysts said.

Putin and Kim met on Wednesday at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, a rocket launch facility in the Russian Far East, for their first summit in more than four years.

North Koress official Korean Central News Agency said Putin and Kim vowed to strengthen strategic and tactical cooperation without providing details.

Concern over arms deal

Washington suspects Pyongyang may supply Moscow with munitions for its war in Ukraine in return for help from Moscow in overcoming critical barriers to building intercontinental ballistic missiles, nuclear-propelled submarines, and military reconnaissance satellites.

After the meeting, the U.S. warned North Korea against supplying arms to Russia.

No nation on the planet, nobody should be helping Mr. Putin kill innocent Ukrainians. And if they decide to move forward with some sort of arms deals, well, obviously well take a measure of that, and well deal with it appropriately, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Wednesday.

Analysts, however, say Kim might be looking for more than technical assistance in his weapons programs.

Seong Ok Yoo, a former South Korean intelligence official who extensively dealt with North Korea, said Kim is trying to use the summit as a propaganda tool to elevate his image globally while seeking greater internal unity.

Kim seeks international recognition. He believes he can push the U.S. to soften its attitude toward him by touting his presence, said Yoo, who played a key role in an inter-Korean summit in 2007.

He wants to ensure the U.S. takes him seriously, Yoo added.

Dog-eared strategy

Jong Dae Shin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, said using an international event as a tool to rule a country is a long-established practice for members of North Koreas ruling Kim dynasty.

For a country like North Korea, which has been isolated for many decades by heavy sanctions, the dog-eared ruling strategy has served the regime by re-enforcing loyalty and devotion among the citizens, according to Shin.

Shin said Kim seems to follow the path of his predecessors.

For Kim, a serious opportunity to enhance his standing came in 2018, when he started rapprochement with a series of summits with the leaders of China, South Korea, and the U.S.

Kims summit diplomacy culminated in the historic meeting with former President Donald Trump in June 2018 in Singapore, at the time hailed as a possible path to peace on the Korean Peninsula.

The two leaders met in February 2019 in Hanoi for their second summit, but they failed to reach an agreement.

Analysts say recent geopolitical developments, including Russias invasion of Ukraine and the U.S.-China strategic competition, give Kim another chance to elevate his image.

Accoridng to them, Kim sees a golden opportunity to advance his countrys weapons programs with few repercussions and increase its leverage with Russia and China, which are at odds with the U.S.

In 2022, North Korea conducted a record number of missile tests in violation of multiple U.N. sanctions.

The U.N. Security Council, however, failed to act because of objections by Russia and China, which have veto power.

In December 2017, the council passed tough sanctions against North Korea in response to the launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile by Pyongyang with the support of Russia and China.

Increased leverage

Yoo believes North Koreas leverage with Russia has increased because of Moscows confrontation with Washington over the war in Ukraine.

There is a reversal of position from the previous summit, said Yoo, referring to the summit between Russia and North Korea in April 2019.

Then, Kim turned to Putin for diplomatic support following the failed summit with Trump but now Russia, hungry for ammunitions, is reaching out to Kim, according to Yoo.

In 2019, Kim had no choice but to rely on Putin to break out of diplomatic isolation. Now, Kim is in the drivers seat, said Cho Han-Bum, senior research fellow at the Korea Institute for National Unification.

International news coverage of the latest summit between Putin and Kim underscored the lavish welcome Putin prepared for the North Korean leader.

Some South Korean news outlets reported that Putin, who is known for showing up late for meetings with foreign leaders, waited for Kim for 30 minutes at the meeting venue.

The Associated Press reported that Putin greeted Kim with a handshake of about 40 seconds.

North Korea state media hailed the summit as a new milestone for the development of relations between Pyongyang and Moscow.

Internal pressure

This weeks summit took place as North Korea appears to be facing severe food shortages.

Elizabeth Salmon, the U.N. special rapporteur on North Koreas human rights, told a Security Council meeting last month some people are dying due to a combination of malnutrition, diseases and lack of access to health care.

In March, South Korean lawmakers briefed by the countrys main intelligence agency told reporters there was a surge of deaths from starvation and suicide due to acute food shortages.

Intae Kim, a former North Korean defector who is now the chief research fellow at the Institute for National Security Strategy (INSS), a think tank run by South Korea's National Intelligence Service, said Kim has pursued a policy of pushing economic growth and expanding nuclear development simultaneously since he took power in December 2011.

While the North Korean leader has advanced the countrys nuclear program, his economic plan has completely failed, according to Kim.

Cha Du Hyeogn, principal fellow at South Koreas Asan Institute, said Kim is trying to send a message to his people with the latest summit that he is working hard to salvage the countrys economy crippled by sanctions, the pandemic and natural disasters.

Kims decision to ride a slow train for his journey instead of a short flight might be an attempt to send the message, according to Cha.

The train ride reminded me of his journey to Hanoi, said Cha, referring to Kims second summit with Trump.

At the time, Kim took a 60-hour train trip for the summit.

Kim might have intended to promote an image of a leader who would be willing to take a long journey for his people, said Cha.
Princeton student Ukyung (Heidi) Nam, a first-year student from South Korea, says that the school's International Orientation program needs to do a better job of educating students on race in America.

"IO [International Orientation] shouldnt stop at teaching about topical and logistical issues, such as visas and paid work," she writes in The Daily Princetonian, the student newspaper. "It must integrate an actual session on race and the history and culture of racism in the United States into its programming." Read her opinion piece here. (October 2023)
The U.S. on Thursday sanctioned more than 150 businesses and individuals in Russia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Georgia to try to crack down on evasion of trade restrictions aimed at blocking funding for Russias 19-month war against Ukraine.

The newest sanctions package is one of the biggest imposed by the State Department and the U.S. Treasury. It targets those who are selling Western technology to Moscow to aid its war effort, particularly businesses and people in Turkey, a member of the Western military pact that is allied in support of Ukraine.

The sanctions, which block any assets the businesses and individuals might have in the U.S., are also aimed at hobbling the development of Russias energy sector that provides war funding, including Arctic natural gas projects, along with mining and factories producing and repairing Russian weapons.

In addition, the U.S. package targets several Turkish and Russian companies that the State Department says help Moscow source U.S. and European electronic components  such as computer chips and processors  that can be used in civilian and military equipment.

The State Department also is targeting Turkish companies that have provided ship repair services to a company affiliated with Russia's Defense Ministry.

Before the war, James O'Brien of the State Departments sanctions coordination office said that Russia imported up to 90% of its electronics from countries that are part of the Group of 7 wealthy democracies, but sanctions have dropped that figure closer to 30%.

On the battlefield, Ukraines military said it shot down 17 of the 22 drones that Russia used to target multiple areas of Ukraine in overnight attacks.

The Ukrainian military said Russia launched several waves of attacks directed at the Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia, Sumy and Dnipropetrovsk regions.

Serhiy Lysak, the regional governor of Dnipropetrovsk, said wreckage from one of three drones downed over the region damaged buildings and cars and started a grass fire.

Lysak said Russian shelling also struck the region, but that there were no casualties reported.

Russias Defense Ministry said its air defenses shot down multiple Ukrainian drones over the Bryansk region of western Russia early Thursday.

Russia also said it repelled an attack on a patrol ship in the Black Sea, with Russian forces destroying five unmanned boats.

Over Russian-controlled Crimea, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Telegram it destroyed 11 Ukrainian drones.

That came a day after a Ukrainian missile hit a strategic shipyard in Crimea, wounding 24 people and damaging two ships that were undergoing repairs.



Some information in this article came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
The U.S. House overwhelmingly approved measures Tuesday targeting Iran for its human rights record and placing restrictions on the country's ability to import or export its expanding arsenal of weapons.

The measures would impose a series of sanctions on Iran's supreme leader, president and other individuals as Washington seeks to further punish the Islamic Republic ahead of the one-year anniversary of nationwide protests. The resolutions will now go to the Senate, where it is unclear if the Democratic-controlled chamber will take them up.

The first bill takes aim at Iran's production and exports of missiles and drones by sanctioning individuals involved in the process, while the second imposes sanctions on high-ranking government officials for "human rights abuses and support for terrorism." The third resolution specifically condemns the government's persecution of the Baha'i minority.

The near-unanimous passage of all three represents a renewed condemnation by Congress against Iran's government, which engaged in a brutal crackdown of its citizenry after the September 2022 death of Mahsa Amini in police custody.

Rep. Jim Banks of Indiana, the co-sponsor of the second bill, posted on social media that it was past time "to sanction those responsible for Mahsa's murder and the repression of brave Iranian protestors."

Amini had been detained for allegedly wearing her hijab too loosely in violation of strictures demanding women in public wear the Islamic headscarves. The 22-year-old died three days later in police custody. Authorities said she had a heart attack but hadn't been harmed. Her family has disputed that, leading to the public outcry.

The protests that ensued represented one of the largest challenges to Iran's theocracy since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. A security force crackdown that followed saw over 500 people killed and more than 22,000 people detained.

The unrest only further complicated any attempt by the Biden administration to restart negotiations between Washington and Tehran  after former President Donald Trump abruptly withdrew U.S. from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018.

And it has remained a point of contention for Republicans in Congress, who have sought to use the power of their majority in the House over the past several months to introduce or pass a series of binding and nonbinding resolutions related to the country's abuse of human rights as well as its nuclear and missile programs.

The passage of the resolutions also comes a day after the Biden administration cleared the way for the release of five American citizens detained in Iran by issuing a blanket waiver for international banks to transfer $6 billion in frozen Iranian money without fear of U.S. sanctions.

In response, Rep, Michael McCaul, the Republican chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said while he was relieved to see the hostages released, the deal sets a bad precedent.

"I remain deeply concerned that the administration's decision to waive sanctions to facilitate the transfer of $6 billion in funds for Iran, the world's top state sponsor of terrorism, creates a direct incentive for America's adversaries to conduct future hostage-taking," he said.
A federal judge on Wednesday declared illegal a revised version of a federal policy that prevents the deportation of hundreds of thousands of immigrants brought to the U.S. as children.

U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen agreed with Texas and eight other states suing to stop the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. The judge's ruling was ultimately expected to be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, sending the program's fate before the high court for a third time.

Hanen barred the government from approving any new applications but left the program intact for existing recipients during the expected appeals. Hanen said his order did not require the federal government to take any actions against DACA recipients.

The states have argued the Obama administration didn't have the authority to create the program in 2012 because it circumvented Congress.

In 2021, Hanen declared the program illegal, ruling it had not been subject to public notice and comment periods required under the federal Administrative Procedures Act.

The Biden administration tried to satisfy Hanen's concerns with a new version of DACA that took effect in October 2022 and was subject to public comments as part of a formal rule-making process.

But Hanen, who was appointed by then-President George W. Bush in 2002, ruled the updated version of DACA was still illegal. He had previously said DACA was unconstitutional and it would be up to Congress to enact legislation shielding people under the program, often known as "Dreamers."

Hanen also had previously ruled the states had standing to file their lawsuit because they had been harmed by the program.

The states have claimed they incur hundreds of millions of dollars in health care, education and other costs when immigrants are allowed to remain in the country illegally. The states that sued are Texas, Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Nebraska, South Carolina, West Virginia, Kansas and Mississippi.

Those defending the program  the federal government, the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund and the state of New Jersey  had argued the states failed to present evidence that any of the costs they allege they have incurred have been tied to DACA recipients. They also argued Congress has given the Department of Homeland Security the legal authority to set immigration enforcement policies.

Despite previously declaring the DACA program illegal, Hanen had left the program intact for those already benefiting from it. But he had ruled there could be no new applicants while appeals were pending.

There were 578,680 people enrolled in DACA at the end of March, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

The program has faced a roller coaster of court challenges over the years.

In 2016, the Supreme Court deadlocked 4-4 over an expanded DACA and a version of the program for parents of DACA recipients. In 2020, the high court ruled 5-4 that the Trump administration had improperly ended DACA, which allowed it to stay in place.

In 2022, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans upheld Hanen's earlier ruling declaring DACA illegal but sent the case back to him to review changes made to the program by the Biden administration.

President Joe Biden and advocacy groups have called on Congress to pass permanent protections for "Dreamers." Congress has failed multiple times to pass proposals called the DREAM Act to protect DACA recipients.
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA  Russian President Vladimir Putin met Wednesday with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at Russias most advanced spaceport amid warnings from the U.S. and South Korea against a potential arms transfer.

Kim pledged his full and unconditional support for all decisions by Putin, in an apparent reference to Russia's war on Ukraine, as the two leaders held talks at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Amur region of Russias far east, near the Chinese border.

The meeting came as media reports quoted unidentified Western officials as saying Russia hopes to receive North Korean artillery shells for use in its war in Ukraine, while Pyongyang appears to want advanced technology for its satellites and nuclear-powered submarines, as well as food assistance from Moscow.

We need to discuss the issues of economic cooperation and humanitarian issues, as well as the situation in the region, Putin told Kim.

White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters Wednesday the United States has concerns about any kind of potential defense cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

Kirby said the U.S. is carefully monitoring the contacts between Moscow and Pyongyang.

No nation on the planet, nobody should be helping Mr. Putin kill innocent Ukrainians. And if they decide to move forward with some sort of arms deals, well, obviously well take a measure of that, and well deal with it appropriately, he said.

At the Vostochny Cosmodrome, Putin and Kim first toured the spaceport, where reporters asked if Russia would help North Korea build satellites.

That's why we came here, Putin said, according to Russian state media. The leader of the DPRK shows great interest in rocket engineering; they are also trying to develop space.

DPRK refers to North Koreas official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea.

As Kim visited Russia Wednesday, North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles into the sea off its eastern coast. South Koreas military said the missiles were launched from near Pyongyang and flew about 650 kilometers.

Ahead of the talks, South Korean officials said they were closely monitoring the first meeting between Kim and Putin in four years.

Cooperation between Russia and North Korea should be made in the direction of contributing to peace and prosperity on the Korean peninsula while adhering to the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, a spokesperson from South Koreas foreign ministry said on Wednesday.

The U.S. and South Korea have renewed warnings to North Korea not to provide munitions to Russia that could be used in the Ukraine war.

Any transfer of arms from North Korea to Russia would violate multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions, said U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller during a Tuesday briefing. We will monitor what happens and will not hesitate to take action to hold those accountable if necessary.

Analysts have taken note of Chinas silence on the Putin-Kim talks. They said China is cautiously managing the situation and is reluctant to be drawn into the controversy as the world eyes the arms deal talks between North Korea and Russia.

China does not have to broadcast its position on the summit meeting between leaders from North Korea and Russia, and therefore highlights the tensions amid the Ukraine war as China prepares to host the Asian Games in Hangzhou, according to Jung Dae-jin who is director of Han Peace Institute at Halla University in South Korea.

Others, including Professor Lee Byong-Chol from Kyungnam Universitys Institute for Far Eastern Studies, question whether Russia is willing to provide North Korea with very advanced technology.

Lee told VOA Wednesday that Russia will transfer technology to North Korea, as requested by Kim, but Moscow will only transfer very basic technology.

Russian media reported that Kim and Putin had no plans to sign official documents after concluding their one-on-one meeting. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday the talks were important and substantive.

Kim held his first summit meeting with Putin on April 25, 2019, at the Russian port city of Vladivostok.

Cindy Saine and Lee Juhyun contributed to this report. Some information came from Associated Press and Reuters.
The damage caused by the most powerful earthquake to hit Morocco in more than a century has been extensive. But residents say the quake has shown the resilience and spirit of Moroccans. Emmanuel Moadjidibaye visited the village of Moulay Brahim and reports this story narrated by Arzouma Kompaore.
No media source currently available

The URL has been copied to your clipboard

The code has been copied to your clipboard.

Zimbabweans paying their last respects to the late former Bulawayo mayor, Joshua Malinga, at a memorial service in the city on Thursday. (Video: Annahstacia Ndlovu)
KYODO NEWS - Sep 14, 2023 - 11:27 | All, Japan

New Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa pledged Wednesday to do her best to "enhance Japan's presence," with the nation facing challenges including building stable ties with China and tackling military threats posed by neighboring nations.

The veteran ruling Liberal Democratic Party lawmaker, who belongs to an intraparty faction led by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, became the first female foreign minister in around 20 years in Japan, succeeding Yoshimasa Hayashi in the latest Cabinet reshuffle.

Kamikawa told reporters in Tokyo that she will make efforts to contribute "not only to Japan's interest but also to the peace of the world" under the administration of Kishida, known as a dovish moderate within the LDP.

She was appointed as foreign minister at a time when Tokyo and Beijing have been at odds over issues such as Japan's release of treated radioactive water from the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean that started on Aug. 24.

On the regional front, China has been beefing up its military capabilities and intensifying joint military activities with Russia near Japan amid the war in Ukraine, while North Korea has continued to pursue nuclear and missile programs.

Kamikawa is one of the five female ministers in the reshuffled Cabinet, a record-tying number for the country that has lagged behind other major economies in achieving gender equality in management-level positions.

The 70-year-old House of Representatives member, who previously served three terms as justice minister, said gender equality is important in politics so that "various views" can be reflected, vowing to "live up to expectations."

Kamikawa is likely to visit New York next week to attend the ongoing annual session of the U.N. General Assembly and other meetings on its sidelines, which would mark her debut as foreign minister at a key international forum.

On Wednesday, meanwhile, new Defense Minister Minoru Kihara told reporters that he will carry out his duties "with a sense of trepidation," after North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles toward the Sea of Japan earlier in the day.

Kihara is a senior member of a bipartisan group promoting relations with self-ruled democratic Taiwan, regarded by Communist-led China as a renegade province to be unified with the mainland by force, if necessary.

Related coverage:

Profiles of Japan PM Kishida's Cabinet members

Kishida revamps Cabinet with record 5 women to boost sluggish support

Kamikawa eyed as foreign minister in Cabinet revamp with more women
Photo: Johnny Nunez/WireImage

Its officially 2003: the VMAs were good, and Nelly and Ashanti are back together. Ashanti attended the Video Music Awards in support of her once and future man, carrying a clutch decorated with a photo of the pair at the 2003 VMAs. Ashanti confirmed to E! News that the two were together again. When asked if they were in a relationship, she laughed then replied I meanyeah. Nelly also spoke on the relationship on Boss Moves with Rasheeda. We cool again, Nelly said. I think it surprised both of us. It wasnt anything that was planned.

According to People, Nelly and Ashanti first went public as a couple in 2003, at the Grammy Awards nominations presser. The first time I met Nelly he asked me for my autograph, but I think he was being sarcastic and I remember writing it down on the program, Ashanti said on Behind the Music. Their meeting was captured by press. That picture has been in so many publications as something else, but it all started out as a joke. For the record, it took him a long time to get my number. They were rumored to have broken up in 2010. But Nelly wouldnt cop to the breakup, since that would be a tacit admission theyd ever been together. To me, our relationship has been based in the media because theres nothing we ever said about it, he said on VladTV. People tend to put us together and then they split us up whenever they feel we find it funny. We just look and whatever the media says, I guess we roll with! Time to roll with it again, it seems!
Photo: Taylor Hill/Getty Images

Peso Plumas October 14 conert in Tijuana has been canceled after death threats were issued by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Our goal is to protect the fans and the team, Peso Plumas labels Double P Records and Prajin Music Group said in a statement on Instagram Stories. For the safety of everyone involved, we will cancel our show in Tijuana. Thank you so much to all our fans for understanding. We love you.

Banners with death threats against Peso Pluma appeared in Tijuana Septmeber 12, according to multiple sources. The banners were signed by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, and per The Arizona Republic, they translate to This goes to Peso Pluma, refrain from presenting yourself on October 14, because it will be your last show due to your disrespect and loose tongue, you show up and we are going to (break you). This comes ahead of Plumas show at Estadio Caliente in Tijuana. According to Punto Norte, a 43-year-old man was arrested in possession of one of the banners.

A regional prosecutor in Tijuana released information on the suspect arrested in connection with the narcomantas erected threatening Peso Pluma. He was at the time and place. When he saw the authorities, he ran away. He was then arrested and found with narcotics in the bag. It was almost three in the morning, Municipal Security and Citizen Protection Secretariat Jose Fernando Sanchez Gonzalez said, per Billboard.

Peso Pluma has come under cartel scrutiny for his narcocorridos, a subgenre of Mexican regional music that depicts the drug trade in its lyrics. Pluma has performed several songs from the POV of a Sinaloa cartel member. Pluma has not claimed to be a member of the cartel but has (per Pitchfork) said that cartels will sometimes pay for songs to be written in their honor.

Montserrat Caballero Ramirez, the municipal president of Tijuana, had previously been considering canceling the show in the name of public safety. Singers like Peso Pluma glorifies crime, so there are certain groups that get upset and unfortunately those who suffer the consequences are the citizens who want to attend their concerts and then are put at risk, she said. In the next few days we will determine whether the concert goes ahead or not. News of the cartels messaging broke hours before Peso Pluma performed at the 2023 VMAs.

This post has been updated throughout.
Photo: Jim Steinfeldt/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

Tom Girardi allegedly interrupted his own mental competency hearing by muttering Fuck you at federal prosecutors. Girardi has been accused of embezzling over $15 million from his clients, with his ex-wife (and Real Housewife) Erika Jayne facing a $50 million racketeering lawsuit. According to Courthouse News Service, the disturbance took place while prosecution was cross-examining Dr. Stacey Wood, an expert witness for the defense who claims that Girardi lacks the mental capacity to stand trial. CNS says the expletive could not be heard from the observation pews, but prosecution brought it to the judges attention and the defense did not object. Prosecution suggested that the Fuck you demonstrated that Girardi could understand what was happening and had nothing to lose.

On Tuesday, Wood testified that Girardi is suffering from moderate dementia. If found mentally competent, he faces five counts of wire fraud in Orange County and separate federal charges in Chicago. Since Girardi was accused of embezzling money from his clients  including families of Lion Air Flight JT 610 crash victims  he has divorced, been disbarred, filed for bankruptcy, and been placed under a conservatorship by his brother.
Photo: Luke Varley/Paramount+/B)2023, Paramount Global

Spoilers follow for the first season of the Paramount+ series Special Ops: Lioness.

Taylor Sheridans preference for rah-rah Americana crossed with soapy melodrama can make for a short mental shelf life. Special Ops: Lioness  a mash-up of the Islamophobia of Sheridans Sicario: Day of the Soldado with the nearly fascist righteousness of Kathryn Bigelows Zero Dark Thirty  is so convolutedly plotted and politically cynical that little sticks. Eight episodes of compressing the entire Middle East into one broadly nefarious entity, a Zoe Saldana parenting story line wrapped in anti-abortion messaging, a team of CIA assassins whose swaggy assholishness is applauded: Its all in line with Sheridans increasingly reactionary auteurism, and it all left my consciousness nearly immediately.

But more than a week after the finale, Gone Is the Illusion of Order, theres one moment in Lioness Im still thinking about. In the last few minutes of the episode, after Cruz (Laysla De Oliveira), a U.S. Marine turned CIA Lioness operative, has assassinated a terrorism financier, she turns against her recruiter and handler, Joe (Saldana). Cruz doesnt care that the CIA insists that the man funded every terrorist attack since September 11; she knows the agency traffics in lies. Shes disinterested in Joes promise that Cruz has now saved lives; shes convinced all she changed was oil prices. After serving in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Cruz believed her calling was to protect the weak, but now shes convinced of something entirely different: that the continued American presence in the Middle East is a mistake.

All we did was make the next generation of terrorists, Cruz says of her mission, a statement thats still rattling around in my brain due to its dissonance with the rest of Lioness. This upstanding soldier realizing that there are capitalist angles to the American presence in the Middle East that hurt people on both sides but produce profits for shadowy corporations and maintain power for entrenched bureaucrats? Syriana is the GOAT of that genre, but Ill take any version of it I can get. Sheridan, who wrote or co-wrote all eight Lioness episodes, making a statement about the destructiveness of American imperialism and interventionism, and noting that the cowboy shit driving the CIA can be self-defeating? Who knew he still had that kind of nuance in him! The guy who made instant-classic Hell or High Water might be hiding somewhere under Sheridans current uniform of gigantic Stetson hat, goofily ornate belt buckle, and American New West fetishization  let him out!

Cruzs revelation is all the more shocking for how Lioness belabors other cliched and geopolitically ignorant points, such as sectarian enemies Iran and Saudi Arabia abandoning their decades of conflict to together operate a militia in Iraq. (Despite renewed relations between the two, a team-up of this magnitude probably wouldnt happen.) Sheridan self-plagiarizes from Sicario: Day of the Soldado with a subplot about Mexican cartels sneaking Al Qaeda operatives across the border for suicide-bombing purposes, and with a presentation of American intelligence agents misleading their assets and dismissing their inner lives to enact their own individual ideas of whats right and wrong. The series primarily skates by on othering and villainization rather than distinctly voicing what America should do  until that Cruz speech, the closest Lioness comes to declaring its own perspective on what two decades of warmongering has actually accomplished.

This scene is the bitter rock bottom of De Oliveiras increasingly panic-stricken performance as Cruz, who spends the series stuck between in-over-her-head and brusque-bitch modes. Maybe this is on purpose, because the Lioness program discourages interiority  Joe wants Cruz to follow her orders and not think otherwise  but it results in Cruz feeling ethically thin until this last exchange between handler and asset. When Cruz accepts her pawn status in this mission and the fact that terrorism occurring in the region doesnt exist in a vacuum but in direct response to Americas continued presence there, De Oliveira lets the characters exhaustion come through in her weary tone and gasping line delivery, the way she throws her body weight into punching Joe in the face, the way she crumples on the ground of the extraction ship that will take her back to an uncertain future in the U.S. Lioness tosses Cruz between certainty in action scenes and uncertainty in emotional ones, but De Oliveiras combination of resolution and resentment here is unique, and its idiosyncrasy with her previously established opinions makes it feel more honest, more meaningful, and more like Sheridan using her to state what should be our takeaway about the efficacy of American occupation.

Lioness recurrently says that its homogenized Middle East needs the U.S. to be its adversary because, otherwise, the regions people  Iranian, Saudi, Kuwaiti, Iraqi, whatever  would discern that their wealthy and out-of-touch leaders are actually their oppressors. That attitude can excuse any kind of regime-change action, and theres a parallel between how Joe convinces Cruz to join the Lioness program with a speech about protecting the vulnerable and how financier Errol (Martin Donovan) explains to his wife, Kaitlyn (Nicole Kidman), Joes boss, that the leaders we have placed in power need us to be the enemy of their people, or the people will start asking why 0.6 percent of the population has income over $1 million. War is peace, freedom is slavery, all that stuff. But with Cruzs next generation of terrorists comment, Lioness acknowledges that the same dichotomy applies in the U.S.: Creating enemies abroad helps mask enemies at home, that small number of people with outsize influence, unfathomable wealth, and the murky morality to maintain both. Sheridans understanding of that inequality is what helped make Hell or High Water so cathartic and so powerful, and while most of Lioness is a mess, Cruzs final roar is a welcome bit of ideological bite.
KYODO NEWS - Sep 14, 2023 - 12:26 | World, All

North Korea said Thursday its leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin reached "a satisfactory agreement and consensus of views" when they discussed important issues the previous day at a space launch center in the Russian Far East.

Kim and Putin talked about "immediate cooperation matters arising in defending the sovereignty" and vowed to further strengthen bilateral "strategic and tactical cooperation," the official Korean Central News Agency said without elaborating. Their agreement was believed to cover mutual military support.

At the end of a reception hosted by the Russian president on Wednesday to welcome Kim, the North Korean leader invited Putin to visit his country at a convenient time. Putin accepted the invitation with pleasure, KCNA said.

However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday a visit to Pyongyang by Putin is not yet planned, according to Russia's Tass news agency.

The two leaders discussed extending strong support to and solidarity with each other "on the common front to frustrate the imperialists' military threat and provocation, high-handed and arbitrary practices to plunder independence, progress and peaceful life of humankind," KCNA said.

Kim and Putin met for the first time in over four years at the Vostochny Cosmodrome space launch center amid concern that North Korea could provide ammunition to Russia, which is struggling to replenish its rapidly depleting stockpiles as its war in Ukraine drags on.

Pyongyang wants Russia to provide it with advanced satellite and nuclear-powered submarine technology, The New York Times reported on Sept. 4, citing U.S. and allied officials.

KCNA said Kim left for his next destination after the reception. He is expected to visit the Russian cities of Komsomolsk-on-Amur in the Khabarovsk region, and Vladivostok, according to Tass.

Kim is expected to visit a factory that manufactures Sukhoi fighters and other aircraft in Komsomolsk-on-Amur as well as the Russian military's Pacific fleet in Vladivostok.

Related coverage:

North Korea's Kim pledges support for Russia, enhancing ties: Tass

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un enters Russia for talks with Putin: sources

North Korean leader Kim to visit Russia "soon" for talks with Putin: KCNA
Maybe the key to making a chaotic show work is to purposefully toss all of its characters into absolute chaos. The Morning Show is never better than when everyone is in total crisis mode, stomping around the building, screaming What is going on?! at each other, and barfing in the bathroom  and that is exactly how we find our little UBA babes in Ghost in the Machine, when the company is under cyber attack. The hackers shut down the morning broadcast, mess with the power in the building, and release hundreds of internal emails just to give everyone a taste of what they can do before asking for a $50 million dollar ransom. I dont know, theres just something about seeing people in nicely tailored suits absolutely lose their shit that really makes me feel alive.

Of course, there is trouble brewing at UBA before the hackers start messing with everyone. The Hyperion One broadcast was a big failure. Oh, the rocket part was totally fine  perfect, even  but the UBA transmission failed, making it seem like Paul Markss dreams of safe, private space flight should remain just dreams, which is the opposite of what Paul wanted when he went into business with UBA. The guy is pissed, and Corys secret backdoor deal to sell the company to him is in jeopardy before it even takes off. But thats not the only reason its in jeopardy: An angry Alex Levy doesnt hesitate to take the news of Corys plans straight to Cybil. And while Cybil is enraged to hear what Cory is doing behind her back, shes also clearly still angry with Alex for ditching the Hyperion One launch  she isnt as strong an ally as Alex believes her to be.

Cybil proves as much when she meets with Cory and Stella the next day to figure out how to handle the fallout of Alexs actions. Cybil wants Alex punished. Advertisers are threatening to pull out because they are paying big money for Alex Levy to draw in an audience. Shes tired of Alex acting like she runs the company and Cory not doing anything about it. Isnt the point of having a dick to throw it around? should be embroidered on pillows and put in living rooms across America. All three of them, however, know that it was difficult to get Alex to sign on for even doing just two days a week on TMS  a suspension wouldnt be punishment. Instead, they decide that they should force Alex to do TMS five days a week until upfronts. When Stella tells Alex the news she basically laughs in her face. As if she would ever do that. But when Stella tells her that both Cory and Cybil agreed to it, Alex realizes she has no allies in the building. She is pissed. Unfortunately for her and her chronic self-absorption, there are much bigger things going on at UBA than Alexs latest temper tantrum.

While Alex and Christina are interviewing No. 1 space visitor Bradley Jackson live on TMS, weird things start happening. The prompter goes out. The doors in the control room lock. The comms between the control room and the anchors are lost. And finally, the power goes completely out. Its mayhem for a while. People worry there is an active shooter situation, and after Chip breaks down the door with a fire extinguisher (it turns out Chip is great in a crisis?), they rush the talent into Alexs dressing room to keep them safe. The rollout of this new Christina character has been almost nonexistent, but even one quick scene in which Alex watches a scared Christina call her husband and talk to her daughter makes the woman seem more human than anyone else on this show. Its nice!

Meanwhile, Bradley wants to tag along with Chip as he tries to get answers as to whats going on, and in truly one of the funniest moments to ever happen on this show, Bradley Jackson, a woman who is portrayed as smart and trustworthy and steely and strong in a crisis suggests they take the elevator in the middle of a mysterious event in which the power is going on and off. AND CHIP GOES ALONG WITH IT. Oh God, everyone on this show is so dumb  I love it. Bradley and Chip get stuck together on the elevator for an hour. Its great.

Unfortunately, whats going on outside the elevator is not so great for ol Brad. The power comes back, at one point loud music is played across the building, the emails  some from HR, others from personal accounts  are released, and the IT team figures out that the entire network has been hacked and all computers, phones, etc. need to be checked. Then Cory gets two messages from the hackers, who at this point are believed to be Russian. One is asking for $50 million dollars in 48 hours, the other shows him just the kind of stuff they can release: a nudie video Bradley sent to Laura while they were away in Montana. As soon as Bradleys released from the clutches of the elevator she willingly went into, shes called up to Corys office, where Cory, Stella, and Laura break the news to Bradley. Bradley proceeds to vomit. Laura tries to comfort her by reminding her that shes been violated and she should lean on people, but Bradley just wants to be alone. I know there are bigger things going on here, but it would be cool if there was, like, any chemistry between these two women.

As they begin to think about how to handle this ransom, Cory decides to call Mr. Cybersecurity himself, Paul Marks  whose number he has memorized for some reason?  and implies that maybe Paul is behind the hack in order to hold UBA ransom until Cory agrees to his offer. Why Paul is still remotely interested in UBA when time and time again it proves to be a complete shitshow is beyond me. Anyway, it turns out Cory is secretly pretty hyped that UBA got hacked. He thinks he can spin it to look like UBA is some bastion of democracy that is under attack by shadowy enemies of free speech. Cory gets off on the weirdest shit, we know this.

He does actually seem to have some empathy for peoples lives being ruined when later, Bradley asks him to come talk with her. He starts in with how they will do everything in their power to protect her if that video gets out, but she stops him. Shes less worried about that video getting out and instead, is terrified about the Big Mysterious Thing that happened last year getting out. Billy Crudup is great in this scene, switching from the slick CEO to a man who seems genuinely concerned for this person he cares about. As much as I get teasing things out, I do think this much mystery around whatever happened is actually detrimental to the cause. If we have more details, it makes it easier to be invested in what Bradley and Cory are going through here. Let us care about these people!

Bradley makes it clear to Cory that it is imperative that he gets the board to agree to pay the ransom. Hes going to do his best. Bradley even tries to get Alex to sure up the board by appealing to Cybil but, one, Alex is still so angry about her punishment and can only think about herself right now and how she does not give a shit if this network gets exposed, and, two, as she informs Bradley, it turns out she has no sway over Cybil. Why does Bradley care so much, anyway, Alex asks. Bradley is a Girl Scout. Did you fuck a predator? she asks her point blank. Then shell be fine. And as for all of UBAs secrets getting out, why should Alex care? UBA didnt protect her when the Maggie Brener book came out. But as Bradley reminds her, there are other peoples reputations at stake here and even if UBA didnt protect her, Bradley did. Okay, Alex feels bad after that.

Alas, Bradleys mission to get UBA to pay the ransom fails miserably. Part of that is because most companies wouldnt negotiate with hackers holding them hostage, but part of it is definitely that Cybil has it out for Cory. Cory gives one of his big, dramatic speeches about how they must pay the ransom because a leak going wide would be nuclear and Cybil just rolls her eyes. Then she wins the board  which includes Stephen Fry now?  over to her side by reminding them that theres no guarantee the leak wont get out even if they do pay and also, uh, it wouldnt be a great look to be funding Russia. After everyone agrees not to pay and let the chips fall where they may, Cory has some choice words for Cybil. But she counters by letting him know that she knows all about his discussions with Paul Marks and to slow his roll. Shes seen a whole bunch of men arrive at this company with a God complex just like Corys and all of them have failed. Oh baby, the war between Cory and Cybil is on and you know there can only be one left standing at the end of this.

Well see who is left standing at UBA when we hit the 48-hour mark and the hackers dont receive their money. Bradley is the one left to break the news of the hack and UBAs refusal to give in to the ransom on her evening news show, warning about some uncomfortable things coming to light that were meant to be private. Hey, at least Bradley does actually have a friend in Alex, who, later that night, shows up at Bradleys place with an apology. Laura told Alex about the video  she wants to help Bradley figure out what to do next. Its nice! There is a part of me that believes The Morning Show is much more fun when Bradley and Alex are at each others throats, but nice is good, too.

While Im sure this hack should be able to fuel drama for some time with information that hasnt even come to light yet, the end of the episode reveals one little tidbit that should add a new wrinkle to Corys plans to sell the company (as if there werent enough already). When Stellas handed back her phone after its been cleared by IT, she scrolls through her photos. Deep in that photo library is a very interesting picture  and no, its not one with Blake Griffin, who she apparently dated for a while last year! Its an old photo of her hugging Paul Marks.

In Other News!

 When Alex and Bradley catch up post-space (Ill never get tired of mentioning Bradley in space), the Luna story seems DOA, although Luna is out of jail and safe, and Bradleys only real update for Alex is that Paul Marks is a real asshole. Alex agrees with her words, but her face tells a different story. When will Alex and Paul get into bed together?! The countdown is on.

 I love when this show lets Reese Witherspoon show off her comedy chops (on purpose). The back-and-forth between Bradley and Chip in the elevator (still not over that decision) in which he calls them Cagney and Lacey and she, taking offense, replies or Woodward and Bernstein in the most pitch-perfect line reading was so good. Let everyone be funny (on purpose) on this show!

 What is the deal with Mias storyline in this episode? We get one vague call between her and a very handsome man  a journalist maybe??  in a dicey situation in Kiev in which she warns him about sending any information to people at UBA and then later a shot of her looking exhausted in the shower. Dont get me wrong, even in just a phone call Mia and this guy are very hot together, but give me more details about this! Or at least one detail?

 So, Chip and Isabella have been dating for a year and while they informed HR, they have been keeping it from Alex. Alex catches them about to have sex in her home office and spirals from the revelation. She does offer to take them to dinner and celebrate with champagne, which is weird at base level, but she does it in such a manic way  you gotta grab love where you can find it!  it is deeply unsettling.

 Someone tell me what Yankos certain preferences are!!

VULTURE NEWSLETTER Keep up with all the drama of your favorite shows! Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us.
KYODO NEWS - Sep 14, 2023 - 22:45 | All, Japan

The approval rating for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's Cabinet rose to 39.8 percent following a reshuffle, up 6.2 percentage points from late August, a Kyodo News survey showed Thursday, signaling the shakeup's limited impact on lifting its sagging popularity.

According to the two-day nationwide telephone survey conducted from Wednesday, 37.6 percent of respondents said they viewed Kishida's picks of Cabinet ministers and ruling party leadership positively, against 43.9 percent who felt otherwise.

Kishida on Wednesday appointed a record-tying five women as ministers, including the top diplomat, and picked 11 new faces for his Cabinet, after facing sluggish support ratings in recent months amid public frustration over the trouble-plagued "My Number" national identification card system and inflation.

The changes were widely seen as an effort by Kishida to boost his popularity and standing within his Liberal Democratic Party as he keeps an eye on the possibility of a snap general election and on the LDP's presidential election in September next year.

But the latest Cabinet support rating ended up being around the same level as the disapproval rating, which stood at 39.7 percent, down 10.3 points from the previous poll on Aug. 19 and 20.

Kishida appears to have tried to balance freshness and stability in the personnel changes, including by retaining seasoned veterans such as Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno and LDP Secretary General Toshimitsu Motegi.

A majority of the surveyed respondents reacted negatively to one of the key highlights of the new LDP executive lineup -- Yuko Obuchi, a 49-year-old daughter of late Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi, who became the election campaign chief --- with 58.8 percent calling the appointment "inappropriate."

The move has marked a comeback of Obuchi to the political limelight since a scandal over misuse of political funds forced her to step down as industry minister only a month after she took the post in 2014.

Over 76 percent of the respondents thought Kishida allocated the ministerial posts in consideration of the power balance between the LDP factions, while 15.9 percent thought the prime minister was focused on "placing the right person in the right place" based on their skills and ability.

As for issues the public feels Kishida should prioritize the most, economic measures, including steps to address rising prices, were cited by 53.5 percent, with child-rearing and the declining birthrate following at 18.8 percent, according to the poll.

Only 7.0 percent thought that diplomacy and national security issues should come first.

While Japan has been releasing treated radioactive water from the crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant since late August, the survey found that 54.1 percent thought that support for fisheries businesses was "insufficient," whereas 36.2 percent said support is "adequate."

The government has compiled a relief package worth 100.7 billion yen ($683 million) to address economic damage stemming from the water discharge. China has imposed a total ban on Japanese seafood, having cited safety concerns in opposing the water release.

By political party, the LDP maintained the highest support rate with 38.3 percent, which was followed by 11.6 percent of respondents favoring the opposition Japan Innovation Party, while 8.3 percent preferred the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan.

The LDP's junior coalition ally Komeito party secured 6.1 percent of support.

The survey called 531 randomly selected households with eligible voters and 2,964 mobile phone numbers. It yielded responses from 420 household members and 626 mobile phone users.

In a questionnaire on Johnny & Associates Inc., which has recently admitted to its late founder's sexual abuse against aspiring teenage pop singers, 56.1 percent were skeptical that Japan's top male talent agency can restore public trust, even after the resignation of its president.

Related coverage:

Kishida revamps Cabinet with record 5 women to boost sluggish support

FOCUS: PM Kishida's election strategy in limbo after unimpressive reshuffle

Profiles of Japan PM Kishida's Cabinet members
Lazio region of Italy reschedules IT-Alert for midday on 27 September.

Italy's new IT-alert system will be tested in the Lazio region around Rome on Wednesday 27 September at midday when the public will receive a "test" message on their mobile phones.

The test had originally been scheduled in Lazio for 21 September but was called off at the last minute due to expected bad weather.

The aim is to introduce people to the new public alert service which is designed to warn of "a major emergency or an imminent or ongoing catastrophic event", according to the IT-Alert website.

In the event of an emergency situation, IT-Alert will also offer "timely information to potentially affected people, with the aim of reducing individual and collective exposure to danger."

The message that will be sent to cellphones in Lazio on 21 September will make a different sound to usual notifications, and the system does not collect any device or location data.

No action will be required from recipients of the message other than reading it. The public will be invited to complete a questionnaire, linked to the message, which can also be used to report any problems.

#ITAlert, nuova data nel Lazio: alle ore 12:00 di mercoledi #27settembre si svolgera anche nella Regione Lazio il primo test del nuovo sistema di allarme pubblico nazionale, promosso dal Dipartimento della Protezione Civile.



Per saperne di piu https://t.co/VuGbHz3GbA pic.twitter.com/JnkeHOHaDS  Regione Lazio (@RegioneLazio) September 25, 2023

IT-Alert is currently in an experimental phase however once it is up and running it will be used by Italy's civil protection authorities to warn the public of potential emergencies and disasters including a tsunami generated by an earthquake; the collapse of a large dam; volcanic activity linked to the Vesuvius, Campi Flegrei, Vulcano and Stromboli volcanoes; nuclear accidents or radiological emergency situations.

The system was first trialled in Tuscany in June before being tested in another regions around Italy during the summer, with testing to continue into October.

The IT-Alert system was tested in the northern Lombardia, Veneto and Valle d'Aosta regions in recent days.

For full details, in English, of how the system works see the IT-Alert website.
Recipes

What do you want to cook today?
An international conference focusing on cooperation between Europe and China within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is held to mark the BRI's 10th anniversary in Sofia, Bulgaria, Sept. 13, 2023.

The event was attended by over 120 participants from 20-odd countries and regions. (Xinhua/Liang Jianqiang)

SOFIA, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- An international conference focusing on cooperation between Europe and China within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was held here on Wednesday to mark the BRI's 10th anniversary. The event was attended by over 120 participants from 20-odd countries and regions.

"The organization of such forums in our country, attended by experts from various fields, proves that Bulgaria can serve as a strategic location for Chinese businesses," Bulgaria's President Rumen Radev said in a letter address to the conference participants.

"I am convinced that with strong political will and energy, Bulgaria will be able to embrace the opportunities offered by the Belt and Road Initiative," Radev said.

Deng Li, secretary general of the Secretariat of Cooperation Between China and Central and Eastern European Countries and China's vice minister of foreign affairs, said in a letter that the BRI has not only contributed "Chinese wisdom" to the peaceful development of the world, but also offered Chinese solutions to promoting win-win cooperation among countries.

Over the past decade, guided by the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, the BRI has remained committed to the vision of open, green and clean cooperation, and pursued the goal of high-standard, sustainable and people-centered development, Deng said.

China's Ambassador to Bulgaria Dong Xiaojun said at the two-day event that the BRI "originates from China but belongs to the world."

Rositsa Kirova, vice president of Bulgaria's National Assembly, said that her country and the European Union (EU) need a solid, stable and respected partner such as China, especially to preserve peace in the world.

All the initiatives that would enable the deepening of relations between China and Bulgaria should be supported, Kirova said.

Nikolay Pavlov, Bulgaria's deputy minister of economy and industry, said the Bulgarian government attaches great importance to cooperation with China. "For us, the expansion of bilateral commercial and economic ties is a priority," he said.

"We welcome Chinese companies that are interested in entering the EU market and establishing their production bases and development centers in Bulgaria," he said.

Zahari Zahariev, chairman of Bulgaria National Association for the Belt and Road, said that the topic of the conference was complex and comprehensive. The BRI has marked many milestones in global development over the past decade, he said. 
Julie Bishop is the chancellor of the Australian National University, and best known as being the former deputy leader of the Liberal Party. The 67-year-old talks about growing up on an apple farm, her first political crush, and working in male-dominated fields all her life.

Julie Bishop: I didnt look at what I did through a gender prism. Credit: Steven Chee

I grew up on an apple farm and orchard in Basket Range in the Adelaide Hills surrounded by many great men, from my paternal grandfather, William James Bishop, to my father, Douglas, and uncles and male cousins. A number of families lived and worked on the same property; it was like a commune.

Grandfather William, who died when I was nine, was an austere figure. He was an intellectual man who read a great deal and was interested in politics. He was good friends with local politicians, including long-time South Australian premier Tom Playford.

Dad was a tall, handsome and hard-working man on the land. He treated his wife and four children as equals. All three girls and a younger brother had to pick fruit in the orchard and round up the sheep. We earned his trust and he showed us we were capable of doing whatever we could put our minds to.
Lima is the gastronomic capital of South America.

Restaurateur Miguel Bellido might be on to something when he boasts about his home cuisine.

Lima Cantina owner Miguel Bellido and chef Dan Salcedo. Credit: Rob Broadfield

Central, the storied restaurant in Lima, Perus capital, is currently number one on the Worlds Top 50 rankings. Sixth spot, Maido, number 28, Kjolle, and number 47, Mayta, are also all from Lima.

For all its renown, Peruvian cuisine is difficult to find in Western Australia.
Anthony Albanese has just endured his worst two weeks so far as prime minister, largely thanks to the Qantas-Qatar controversy.

It doesnt qualify as a crisis, but there will be one, some day, and if the government manages it in the same way, it will end with the elimination of the prime minister and or whichever minister is involved.

Anthony Albanese has had his worst two weeks since he became prime minister. Credit: Dionne Gain

It is an indictment on the government that it allowed the issue to consume debate for so long. The evasions not only encouraged conspiracy theories to flourish. They fuelled concerns about the cost of living and fed suspicions about cronyism and the Voice.

Albanese has been plagued for months by criticism that he has failed to provide enough information on the Voice and here he was again showing an obstinate reluctance to give straightforward explanations about a fairly routine decision.
Seoul: Vladimir Putins rolling out of the red carpet for North Koreas Kim Jong-un is likely to displease Xi Jinping.

For China, North Korea has long been like a hot-headed little brother, rather than fulfilling the more obedient role it would like it to: taking direction from and being dependent upon Beijing.

Where is China on this? Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Koreas leader Kim Jong-un. Credit: AP

For Xi, it is a rogue move, and indeed an affront, for Kim to choose Moscow over Beijing for a rare visit abroad, and his first in years  particularly given that China was a lifeline for North Korea through the pandemic.

Even worse, Kims visit could throw regional stability off course, something that China values deeply.
Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and a member of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, meets with To Lam, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and Vietnamese Minister of Public Security, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

BEIJING, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Senior Communist Party of China (CPC) official Cai Qi met with To Lam, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and Vietnamese Minister of Public Security, in Beijing on Wednesday.

Cai, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and a member of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, noted that both China and Vietnam are socialist countries led by communist parties and share common ideals, beliefs, and values.

"China is willing to work with Vietnam to jointly implement the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two parties, consolidate traditional friendship, strengthen strategic communication, enhance political mutual trust and properly manage differences, and push the China-Vietnam comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership in the new era to a new level," he said.

Cai called on the public security ministries of China and Vietnam to strengthen political and security cooperation, jointly crack down on transnational crimes, deepen cybersecurity cooperation, balance development and security, and strive to serve the construction of a strategic China-Vietnam community of shared future.

To Lam positively commented on the relations between the two parties and countries, saying that Vietnam is willing to make joint efforts with the Chinese side to strengthen bilateral pragmatic cooperation in various fields. Enditem
BEIJING, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Blood is thicker than water. This proverb has often been cited to characterize the relationship between people across the Taiwan Strait.

With the recent announcement of a new policy move designating the entire province of Fujian as a demonstration zone for cross-Strait integrated development, there is ample reason to believe that a powerful message of peace has been conveyed.

Fujian is the mainland province situated closest to Taiwan. The decision to grant it the green light to take bold strides in integrated development is rooted in the strong expectation of peace across the Strait.

The high-profile circular, issued by the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council, said the move aims to deepen integrated cross-Strait development in all fields and advance the peaceful reunification of the motherland.

A total of 21 specific measures for the construction of the zone fully demonstrate the mainland's firm conviction that people on both sides of the Strait are one family. The measures also highlight the mainland's will to show respect and care for Taiwan compatriots, and to deliver benefits to them.

Fujian was chosen as the demonstration zone due to its geographic advantages, as it is located just across a strip of water from Taiwan. The province also has a profound cultural bond with Taiwan as it is the ancestral home of many of the island's residents.

The policy move aims to increase the convenience of cross-Strait personnel exchanges, smooth trade and investment, and broaden and deepen cooperation between Fujian and Taiwan.

While Fujian's unique advantages are given full play, Taiwan people living in Fujian will be presented with greater development opportunities. They will be encouraged to study, work and have active social lives in Fujian. Taiwan's enterprises -- in industries ranging from agriculture to high-tech -- and its financial investors are being welcomed to expand their businesses in Fujian.

In the varied preferential measures, people can find that the mainland is continuously pursuing people-centered development and bringing Taiwan compatriots benefits that are enjoyed by those from the mainland, despite the changing cross-Strait situation.

Peace, development, exchange and cooperation are the common aspirations of Taiwan compatriots.

It is expected that the people and enterprises of Taiwan will utilize the favorable policies and grasp the opportunities provided by the mainland.

This new era is an era of great opportunity for the Chinese nation and people on both sides of the Strait.

Peaceful and integrated development will benefit everyone. 
Upcoming Events: 2023

LatinArte, Arts of Mexico en Utah: Art Exhibit

October 1-31, Monday-Saturday 8 a.m.- 8 p.m.

Shepherd Union, Bridge

Free and open to the public

WSU's Hispanic Heritage Month aims to bring awareness, provide cultural competency and education to the campus community. This event amplifies the voices of the Hispanic, Latino/e/x community and the welcomeness and inclusion of the different Hispanic and Latino groups on campus. Hispanic Heritage Month 2023 is possible due to the support and generosity of the following partners: Equity Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), Office of Equity in Access, Onstage Ogden, College of Arts & Humanities, Visual Arts, Stewart Library, Arts of Mexico in Utah and Latin Artist, Utah Latino Businesses, Department of Foreign Languages, Spanish Program, Diversity and Unity VP, Health Science and Professions and Nursing Program, Hispanic Area Council (HAC), Marketing and Communications, WSUSA, Alumni Center, SignPost, Wildcat Store, WSU Ballet Folklorico, IMAGE De Northern Utah, Frank Ruiz and Andres Herbon.
Yudi Lewis honored with Utahs 40 Over 40 award

September 14, 2023

OGDEN, Utah  Weber State Universitys executive director of Hispanic-Serving Institution Initiatives Yudi Lewis has been named one of Utahs 40 over 40 successful women for her work in higher education.

Utahs 40 Over 40 is a nonprofit organization that celebrates the achievements of women transforming their communities.

I feel a deep sense of honor and humility to receive recognition for the work I am truly passionate about: fostering opportunities for students to access and achieve their dreams in higher education, Lewis said. This award serves as a beautiful testament to the remarkable women who, each in their unique ways, are reshaping Utah's landscape to be more inclusive and equitable.

Lewis joined Weber State in September 2022 to help reach the goal of becoming an emerging Hispanic-Serving Institution. Shes had prior success in increasing the enrollment of Hispanic and Latino students by 361% and graduation headcount by 724% at another university in Utah.

She has also helped acquire over $600,000 in grant money to support educational opportunities for Utah youth. Lewis is an acclaimed presenter at national and international conferences. Her tuition-free Latino Scientists of Tomorrow program has been replicated at six schools nationwide.

Lewis has connected with thousands of students by sharing her story and advocating for them.

My role in higher education enables me to give back by opening doors to educational possibilities for students, just as someone once did for me, Lewis said. I firmly believe that the only true impossibilities in life are the things you do not try. I urge every student to discover their passion and relentlessly pursue their dreams.

Lewis was also recently named a 2023 Living Color Utah award recipient, which honors individuals who help cultivate diversity and inclusion in Utah.
MACAO, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Murals from China's Tang Dynasty over 1,000 years ago are being exhibited in the Macao Special Administrative Region, aiming to help Macao residents learn more about traditional Chinese culture.

The exhibition opened on Wednesday at the City University of Macao (CUM), showcasing the lives of young people in the Tang Dynasty vividly.

Museum staff from the mainland explained to visitors the knowledge contained in the murals. Macao students were also invited to experience mural painting and traditional Chinese clothing at that time.

Liu Jun, rector of CUM, said they encouraged teachers and students to actively participate in the side events of the exhibition and make efforts to inherit and carry on traditional Chinese culture.

Co-organized by the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation, the National Cultural Heritage Administration, the CUM, and the National Conditions Education Association (Macao), the exhibition will last until Sept. 26. 
Weather Alert

Bulletin: ...FREEZE WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM LATE WEDNESDAY NIGHT THROUGH THURSDAY MORNING... * WHAT...Sub-freezing temperatures as low as 26 possible. * WHERE...Portions of central, northern and southern Delaware, northeast Maryland, central, northern, northwest and southern New Jersey and east central and southeast Pennsylvania. * WHEN...From late Wednesday night through Thursday morning. * IMPACTS...Frost and freeze conditions will kill crops and other sensitive vegetation. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. &&

Info:

Type: Freeze Watch

start_time_local: 2023-11-02T00:00:00-04:00

end_time_local: 2023-11-02T10:00:00-04:00

county_name:

state: NJ

headline: Freeze Watch from THU 12:00 AM EDT until THU 10:00 AM EDT

county_fips:

category: Met

url:

urgency: Future

severity: Severe

certainty: Possible

geographicname: Warren County

state_name: New Jersey
BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese authorities on Thursday evening continued to issue a yellow alert for possible geological disasters triggered by heavy rainfall in some regions of east and south China.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and the China Meteorological Administration jointly warned of the risks of rain-induced geological disasters in parts of south central and northeastern Jiangxi and northern Guangdong from 8 p.m. Thursday to 8 p.m. Friday.

Residents are advised to take precautions, especially in areas with potential dangers.

China has a four-tier, color-coded warning system for geological disasters, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue. 
READING, Pa. - The Berks County Commissioners are looking for answers about when a request for federal aid for local flood victims will be answered.

The county recently sent a letter to federal officials representing Berks for an update on the status of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds.

Berks County was hit hard by flooding on July 8, causing some buildings to collapse and others to be shut down for repairs.

Officials say the request for aid was sent to FEMA early last month.

At Thursday's meeting, Commissioner Christian Leinbach read a letter sent to each of the federal officials that represent Berks County.

The letter, written by Berks Department of Emergency Services director Brian Gottschall, urged FEMA for any response, even if the request for federal assistance is denied.

Below is the letter in its entirety:

I am writing to you today in my capacity as the emergency management coordinator of Berks County, Pennsylvania to ask your assistance in facilitating a response from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Biden administration regarding the request for a major disaster declaration made by Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro subsequent to flooding in Berks County, PA on July 8, 2023. This request was forwarded to FEMA in the first week of August. The request included both Individual (IA) and Public Assistance (PA). To date, no response has been received.

In the IA arena, the impacted residents of Berks County, many of whom are of limited means, largely lacked insurance against this hazard as the event was somewhat unconventional flooding resulting from torrential rains in a very localized area. This has left many with needs related to home, personal property and vehicles.

In PA, the greatest loss was experienced by the smallest and least financially capable school district in our county. Antietam School District experienced flooding of its senior/junior high/administration building. Water multiple feet deep poured through the first floor of the building and into its basement where the building mechanicals were primarily located. Losses just in this structure are approaching $20 million dollars.

While we believe we have demonstrated significant and unusual losses beyond the reasonable expectation of the local community to address, and while we remain hopeful that FEMA will concur that necessary thresholds have been crossed to secure federal assistance, even a response that assistance is not forthcoming would be appreciated. This would set expectations for those impacted but could also potentially open the doors for other programs that we might be able to access to support this recovery.

I appreciate your advocacy for Berks County at the time of the request and I further appreciate your consideration of my request for your advocacy in trying to move the process forward. I hope that your influence will bring this matter the attention it deserves. Please feel free to contact me should you require any further information.

Sincerely,

Brian A. Gottschall

MPA CEM Director
HAMBURG, Pa. - A classic fall King won't be marching down the streets of Hamburg this year.

The King Frost Parade has been canceled.

Organizers posted on Facebook Wednesday night that they simply don't have enough volunteers to run the parade well and safely.

The Hamburg Jaycees ran the parade for nearly 60 years to celebrate the fall holidays with floats, bands, and, of course, King Frost.

The organizers say they didn't take this decision lightly and thanked everyone for their support over the years.
READING, Pa. - The Vice President of the United States will be making a visit to Berks County next week.

The White House confirmed that VP Kamala Harris will visit Reading Area Community College Tuesday, September 19 as part of her Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour.

The Vice President will visit around a dozen schools across seven states to bring students together around the fight for reproductive rights, common sense gun safety laws, climate action, voting rights, LGBTQ+ equality and teaching Americas full history.

This generation is critical to the urgent issues that are at stake right now for our future, said Vice President Harris. It is young leaders throughout America who know what the solutions look like and are organizing in their communities to make them a reality. My message to students is clear: We are counting on you, we need you, you are everything.

The tour will include visits to historically Black colleges and universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, community colleges, apprenticeship programs and state schools.

The Vice President will also urge attendees to register to vote and stay politically engaged.
EASTON, Pa.  Green energy shouldn't cost any extra green for Easton residents, Mayor Sal Panto said during Easton City Council's meeting Wednesday night.

Panto said that he, Public Works Director David Hopkins and City Solicitor Joel Scheer met Tuesday with New England Hydropower Co. regarding the proposed hydroelectric power plant at Hugh Moore Park.

Both the Easton and Northampton County governments have been negotiating a lease with New England Hydro for several years. The company would lease a section of the canal at Hugh Moore Park for a hydropower facility.

Panto said he will have more updates about the proposal "in two weeks." He said he believes the current lease is written in a way that is not tax-friendly to Easton residents and could expose them to financial liability.

"We think [green energy] is a great idea. However, we don't think it should cost the citizens of Easton any extra dollars," Panto said. "And right now, the way that lease is drafted, there's major exposure."
The Lehigh County District Attorney and Allentown Police announced an arrest in a fatal crash investigation from October 2022.

Chase Strahler, 25 of Emmaus is charged with homicide by vehicle relating to the death of John Sassaman.

Police say Strahler surrendered Thursday and will be processed at Lehigh County Central Booking Center.

Strahler is accused of causing the crash that happened just before 1 a.m. on Oct. 2, 2022 in the 400 block of S. 24th Street.

Officers report they found a Jeep Grand Cherokee in the SB travel lane of S. 24th Street facing east and a Hyundai Sonata in the yard of a nearby home with damage to the driver side area.

Sassaman, 63, of Salisbury Township, the driver of the Hyundai, was taken to a nearby hospital where he died.

Sassaman died from multiple blunt force injuries due to motor vehicle collision and his death was ruled accidental by Lehigh County Coroner Daniel Buglio.

Officers noted that Strahler, the driver of the Jeep, smelled of alcohol and his speech was slurred. Strahlers blood-alcohol content was 0.20 percent, police said in a press release following his recent arrest.

An investigation determined Sassamans car struck a parked car. Following that collision, Strahlers Jeep then hit both vehicles.

Because of the complex nature of the crash, the investigation included an extensive accident reconstruction which determined that Sassamans fatal injuries occurred during the crash caused by Strahler and not by his vehicle first striking the parked car.

At the time of his death, Sassamans blood-alcohol content was 0.09 percent.

The speed limit on the area of S. 24th Street where the fatal crash occurred has a posted speed limit of 35 m.p.h.

A visibility study was also conducted and determined that Strahler was traveling 41 to 44 mph at the time of the crash and that a normal, coherent and sober driver would have had enough time to stop and avoid the crash.

Strahler is charged with the following:
MIDDLESEX TWP., Pa.  Shoppers at some local Giant stores are seeing new security measures for shopping carts.

The people who just leave their carts where they parked may be irritating, and that practice sometimes leads to minor auto dings, but theft is a much bigger problem.

The grocery chain is now securing shopping carts with devices that are designed to keep Giant property, on Giant property. Theft at grocery stores goes beyond ready-made food and high-dollar meat and fish items.

The metal carts are marked with a sign that says stop and alto (stop in Spanish) and a warning in both languages: "Shopping Carts may stop unexpectedly at exit doors and carts will stop if taken beyond the perimeter of the parking."

Giant Co., based in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, declined to discuss details of security measures, but the company acknowledged the use of new technology to keep carts from leaving parking lots. The sign on carts says they have an "asset protection device installed."

Occasionally, carts are used to take groceries home and are then dumped in vacant lots, on streets, behind billboards and even in rivers. Some homeless people use them to carry their possessions, and metal carts can be sold for scrap.

That will be more difficult now. Two Giant stores in Bethlehem Township  one on Easton Avenue and the other in the Bethlehem Square center off Route 191  carry warnings to would-be cart bandits.

"Attention Shoppers! Our shopping carts will lock if taken beyond the parking lot perimeter. While distinctive yellow lines mark normal exits, the entire lot perimeter is protected," signs say.

Preventing theft of a device that is designed to roll is not easy. While there is no solid number for the cost to stores, estimates for the annual expense of stolen and damaged carts, including the costs of retrieval, in the U.S. run into the tens of millions of dollars.

The cost of new carts starts around $200 and goes well over $400, according to the website of Global Industrial, one cart supplier. Adding security devices adds to the price.

"At the Giant Company, we're committed to creating a safe environment for our team members and customers, and as such, we have implemented a variety of technologies and measures to help us do just that," according to a company statement. "This technology is in use at several dozen stores across our footprint, with more on the way."

Giant serves Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. It was founded in 1923 and now has 193 stores, according to the website of its parent company, Ahold Delhaize.

Among other Ahold Delhaize brands are Food Lion, Stop and Shop, and Hannaford. The company is based in the Netherlands.
ALLENTOWN, Pa.  The Lehigh County Board of Commissioners expressed thanks Wednesday night for the county's Children & Youth Services, following an emotional Aug. 23 meeting during which dozens of families said they were affected by "medical kidnapping."

"We notice you Thank you for doing the incredibly important [work]," Commissioner Chair Geoff Brace said of CYS at the governing body's Wednesday meeting. "We stand in solidarity with you."

According to his report Wednesday night, Brace said he sent the words of appreciation through an email directed to the department's workers. The entire board supported the effort.

"I can't say enough in support. They care so very much about our children," said County Commissioner Bob Elbich.

Commissioner Dave Harrington said he's been able to speak with individuals who work with children and youth who described their caseloads and the homes they have to sometimes enter.

"They care about the children and, by and large, they care about the families," Harrington said.

The email comes on the heels of the Aug. 23 Lehigh County Board of Commissioners meeting, during which dozens of families spoke out against Lehigh Valley Health Network and the hospital's treatment of children, alleging "medical kidnapping."

Those comments were encouraged by a report from Lehigh County Controller Mark Pinsley that claims a "systemic overdiagnosis" of medical child abuse in the Lehigh Valley. While the report does not name specific facilities complicit in the overdiagnosis, LVHN's John Van Brakle Child Advocacy Center  located at 1627 W. Chew St. in Allentown  is the only facility in the area that manages such child abuse cases.

Specifically, the report references child abuse by parents or adults suffering with Munchausen syndrome by proxy, or MSBP. MSBP is an extremely rare mental condition in which parents or adults falsely convince children they suffer serious illnesses.

Many families who spoke at the Aug. 23 meeting accused LVHN pediatrician Dr. Debra Esernio-Jenssen and her associates of intentionally perpetrating false MSBP diagnoses when they took their children to the emergency room.

Such a misdiagnosis was used to turn sick children against their parents during long unsupervised hospital stays and/or frame said parents as child abusers, according to the families. After this, the families said the hospital would get Pennsylvania Child & Youth Services involved to take away custody of their children.

In light of these accusations, the Lehigh County Board of Commissioners said Wednesday that it's important for the county's Children & Youth Services to know it has support.

For its part, LVHN said in August, "The Lehigh County Controller has no jurisdiction over the CAC (John Van Brakle Child Advocacy Center), nor the clinical credentials to conduct a review of a clinician or the services rendered by a clinician  and we disagree wholeheartedly with the controller's conclusions being shared with the media. The Controller ignores the fact that Munchausen's by Proxy perpetrators can have more than one victim."

The Lehigh County Department of Human Services also provided a statement in August regarding Pinsley's report:

We are currently reviewing the report presented by Mr. Pinsley. At first glance we are concerned that this appears to be rather one-sided in its presentation of facts and conclusions regarding the County of Lehighs Office of Children and Youth Services. The caseworkers and attorneys of the Office of Children and Youth Services are dedicated professionals who are committed to the protection of children and youth as both a legal and moral imperative. Any case in which the agency seeks to remove a child from their parent(s) must first be presented to the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas before emergency placement, and then a hearing occurs shortly after placement. While we are constrained by both State and Federal law from fully discussing the situations of the specific Lehigh County cases identified by Mr. Pinsley, we have reviewed the facts and are comfortable with the Countys handling of these matters, and the protection of the children involved.

For the board of commissioners' part, Brace said he has inquired about the board's ability to "create policies independent of state and federal law."

"I await the analysis of the department of law as to what steps the board can take pursuant of this subject matter," Brace said Wednesday.

The information will be shared publicly, he said.

General obligation bonds

In other news, the board of commissioners approved the issuance and sale of its general obligation bonds in an amount of $62.4 million to provide funds for and towards the design, planning, acquisition, construction, installation and/or equipping of the county's capital improvement projects identified by the commissioners in the county's 2023 capital plan.

According to the ordinance, the board accepted the proposal of JP Morgan Securities LLC for the purchase of the bonds. The sale is conditioned upon approval from the state Department of Community and Economic Development.

Suicide awareness

The board also voted to name September Suicide Awareness Month and Sept. 10 Suicide Awareness and Prevention Day.

According to Lehigh County Coroner Dan Buglio, there have been 34 suicides investigated by his office in 2023. Depression plays a large role in many suicides, Buglio said.

"It's time to raise the awareness and connect people especially those with depression or thoughts of suicide," he added.

The measure was unanimously supported by the board with Commissioner Dave Harrington sharing his experience with mental health struggles, becoming emotional when offering a bit of potential guidance to others.

"If you are feeling that way, go out and talk to someone because it does get better," he said.

Green Light for Veterans

The board also voted to support veterans by making Lehigh County a Green Light for Veterans county. In support of veterans and Operation Green Light for Veterans, the Lehigh County Soldiers and Sailors Monument will be illuminated Nov. 6-12.

Potential new judge for Lehigh County

One issue on which the board was not unanimous in lending its support via resolution of Senate Bill 361, the Judicial Complement Bill that is currently before the Pennsylvania General Assembly and includes the addition of an 11th judge for the Court of Common Pleas of Lehigh County.

Upon approval, an 11th judge for Lehigh County would be elected in 2025 and take office on Jan. 1, 2026.

The resolution offering support was brought to the board on behalf of the court's 10 judges and judicial employees by President Judge J. Brian Johnson.

The resolution states that a judge has not been added to the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas since January 2004.

"People have a constitutional right to due process in Lehigh County and this happens through our courts," Brace said.

"Courts are the arbiters of due process as such we have a responsibility to be advocates for due process," he said.

Commissioner Antonio Pineda mentioned the financial impact a new judge would pose to the county, saying that it would cost "half a million dollars."
BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping on Thursday sent a congratulatory letter to the 2023 Beijing Culture Forum that opened on the same day in Beijing.

In his letter, Xi highlighted the enduring fine traditional culture of the Chinese nation, which has always embraced openness and inclusiveness, noting that the Chinese civilization has always valued mutual understanding and respect among different civilizations.

"Beijing, with its long history and profound cultural heritage, serves as a powerful testament to the continuity, innovation, unity, inclusiveness and peaceful nature of the Chinese civilization," he said.

Xi said China will leverage the advantages of Beijing as an ancient capital and a national cultural center to strengthen cultural exchanges with the rest of the world, so as to jointly promote cultural prosperity, heritage preservation and mutual learning between civilizations and implement the Global Civilization Initiative.

Themed "inheriting cultural legacies and promoting exchanges and cooperation," the forum was jointly hosted by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee and the Beijing municipal government. 
SOUTH COVENTRY TWP., Pa. - U.S. Marshals are learning more about how convicted killer Danelo Cavalcante survived during a nearly two week long manhunt.

Cavalcante admitted to authorities that he survived by eating stolen watermelons and stream water from a nearby farm.

In a post-capture interview with authorities, Cavalcante says he hunkered down in a wooded area for the first few days following his escape, and even covered his own fecal matter under leaves to avoid being tracked.

Cavalcante also told authorities that police almost stepped on him during the search while he was hiding in the thick vegetation.

A deeper conversation with Cavalcante revealed that he planned to use a stolen rifle to carjack someone to make his escape to Canada, according to Supervisory Deputy with U.S. Marshals Service Robert Clark.

Cavalcante intended to act on the carjacking within 24 hours but was caught before he had an opportunity to do it.

The escapee continued to admit how during the manhunt he was surveying homes and businesses, including the home where he eventually stole a backpacks he claims had a razor inside. Cavalcante tells U.S. Marshals he used the razor to clean shave his face.

The exact location of where he took the backpack from or the Eagles hoodie he was wearing during his capture are not known.

Cavalcante says he also surveyed the dairy farm where he stole a truck from. He says there were two unsecured vehicles he could've taken.
Moments after law enforcement officials spotted convicted murderer Danelo Cavalcantes head peeking through the underbrush, they released a police dog who bit and subdued Cavalcante, leading to his apprehension nearly two weeks after he escaped prison, officials said.

The dog, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois male named Yoda, was from one of two tactical teams that moved in on Cavalcante at around 8 a.m. in a wooded Pennsylvania area, ending an intensive manhunt that drew hundreds of law enforcement officials to the area without any shots fired during the arrest.

Yoda was a significant force in the takedown, preventing Cavalcante from using a stolen rifle in his possession that lay within arms-reach, said Lt. Colonel George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police during a news conference Wednesday.

He was just essential as far as the tracking and searching, as were numerous other K-9s that were here, Robert Clark, supervisory deputy US Marshal for Pennsylvanias eastern district, told CNN on Wednesday. All these K-9 resources were utilized from different tactical teams from the area, and they were just incredible resources.

Cavalcante escaped from Chester County Prison on August 31, leaving the surrounding community gripped with fear as he evaded capture despite being spotted numerous times.

The 34-year-old was convicted last month in the 2021 killing of his former girlfriend, Deborah Brandao. He is also wanted in a 2017 homicide case in Brazil, a US Marshals Service official said.

Cavalcante was captured in Chester County, swarmed by at least 20 law enforcement officers, Bivens said. Yoda joined the search from the US Border Patrol Tactical Unit stationed out of Michigan, Clark told CNN.

Authorities say it took about five minutes from when authorities began moving in to apprehend Cavalcante, with Yodas help.

Cavalcante tried to flee, Yoda bit him twice

The fugitive was sleeping when police finally located him, lying on top of a rifle he had stolen from a nearby resident late Monday night. Officers took Cavalcante by surprise, and he tried to flee by crawling through the thick underbrush with the stolen rifle in hand, Bivens said.

The tactical teams made the decision to deploy Yoda  knowing Cavalcante was armed  before upgrading to deadly force, according to Clark. Only the crown of Cavalcantes head was visible when Yoda moved in on him, Clark said.

Yoda is a bite and hold police dog, Clark said, trained to hold down an individual until commanded to release the hold. The dog bit Cavalcante on his scalp and then bit him again in the lower extremity area to keep him down, Clark said.

When the dog got to him, he then went flat with the dog on him  the dog was able to detain him there, Bivens said. I was told the rifle was within arms length.

Cavalcante then continued to resist and was forcibly taken into custody by the officers, Bivens said.

The very important role of K-9s

Police dogs play a very important role in tracking down and safely capturing an individual, Bivens said during the news conference.

Far better that were able to release a patrol dog like this and have them subdue the individual than have to use lethal force, Bivens said.

Its standard practice for K-9s to move first, going quickly and directly to a suspect on command, Bivens told CNN.

The dogs are trained to take a person off guard to prevent them from escaping or using any weapons in their vicinity. Their training grants officers a few extra seconds to approach the suspect and apprehend them without lethal force, Bivens added.

They dont just keep biting and releasing or trying to cause additional injury, Bivens said, referring to how K-9 dogs are trained.

They simply grab onto and try and hold that person in place until officers can get there, he added, noting police dogs are not meant to be released at a distance or without supervision. There are officers close by who can then move in, the handler can Immediately pull the dog back off and then officers take over from there.
President of Xinhua News Agency Fu Hua meets with the delegation of Russia's Valdai Discussion Club in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

BEIJING, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- President of Xinhua News Agency Fu Hua met with the delegation of Russia's Valdai Discussion Club on Wednesday in Beijing.

Hailing the remarkable influence of the Valdai Discussion Club, Fu said the cooperation between the Valdai Discussion Club and Xinhua enjoys broad prospect.

Fu said the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping 10 years ago is of great significance, and has become a widely welcomed international public good and an international platform of cooperation of the largest scale. Amid the current global landscape, the building of the BRI and the promulgation of the common values of humanity are of great significance, said Fu.

Fu said Xinhua expects to enhance communications and cooperation with the Valdai Discussion Club to jointly produce more studies of greater value to ensure the BRI can better benefit all of its participating parties.

Andrey Bystritskiy, chairman of the Board of the Foundation for Development and Support of the Valdai Discussion Club, said he is impressed by the Russian version of a report entitled "Toward Modernity: The Value of Xi Jinping's Economic Thought" released by New China Research, the think tank of Xinhua News Agency, in March in Moscow.

Noting Xinhua has important influence in news release and think tank, Bystritskiy said it is expected that the two sides will strengthen exchanges and cooperation on topics such as the construction of the Belt and Road Initiative and jointly roll out more research outcomes. 
Johannesburg fire: how to move forward

There was a plan to fix derelict buildings and provide good accommodation.

Thousands of Johannesburg inner-city residents occupy buildings in conditions like those that led to the fire at 80 Albert Street that killed at least 77 people. They are living in derelict multi-storey buildings, former office blocks, sectional title buildings, tenements, warehouses and factories.

The residents are mostly informal, unsalaried or poorly paid workers. Some are unemployed or on welfare grants. They cant afford even the lowest priced formal rental or social housing in the inner city. Even if they could, they would be excluded by high demand and low supply.

The accommodation they can access frequently lacks running water and sanitation, security, ventilation, lighting and formal electricity.

Rooms are subdivided with wood or cardboard. Electricity cabling, candles, paraffin lamps and generators contribute to the ever-present pollution and risk of fire. Homes and families lives are carved in the shadows of failing or non-existent infrastructure.

We are academics in the fields of urban planning, architecture and housing. Weve applied our expertise to questions of urbanisation, poverty, housing design and management, housing rights and the inner city over many years.

Various complex factors have led to the occupation of abandoned inner city buildings under precarious conditions. The citys approach to this reality evolved into a sophisticated and nuanced housing plan adopted in 2017. It was only partially implemented. While the city needs to refocus on this plan, immediate safety interventions are needed in occupied buildings. Many of them lend themselves to retrofitting or conversion. Existing management structures that involve residents offer lessons.

Johannesburgs intervention plans

Constitutional jurisprudence protects what it calls unlawful occupiers from evictions that would lead to homelessness and requires the state to provide alternative accommodation.

Key to this jurisprudence, the 2011 Blue Moonlight case put an end to the citys policy of handing precariously occupied buildings to the private sector for profitable development.

The city has recognised that expansion of low-income housing is a critical part of the solution. In 2014 Mayor Parks Taus ANC administration commissioned a strategy and housing plan which was approved by Herman Mashabas (DA-led) mayoral committee in 2017. The plan is concerned with the needs of the poor, though addressing all income groups. It takes an inclusive, contextual, practical approach that promotes choice.

The plan includes providing emergency services to critical buildings, and temporary emergency accommodation. It sets out strategies to increase supply of temporary and permanent housing by private providers, city entities and social housing institutions. This includes mechanisms for very low-income accommodation, including subsidised rental rooms.

The plan was well received but never adequately funded or carried out. The projected budget for temporary emergency accommodation and alternative rental units for those evicted for 2017/2018 to 2021/22 was R561 million (US$29 million). Only just over one third was allocated.

In 2021, the city developed a draft policy for temporary emergency accommodation. It also reviewed the availability of such accommodation. Its housing department estimated it would need to provide 10,000 additional rooms or rental units to evicted communities. At the time under 2,000 units were already built, but mostly occupied or allocated. The city had projects to develop under 5,000 more units. Even if all current and future projects were fully funded and complete, which could take several years, they would cover less than half the existing need.

The approved plan acknowledged that criminals exploited residents by collecting rent in some buildings such as 80 Albert Street. The municipal-owned Johannesburg Property Company, which manages the citys vast property portfolio, seemingly owner of several occupied buildings, has not released its inventory of properties.

Much of the housing plans analysis, approach and proposals remain relevant today. It has not been publicly available on the internet. We placed it on the Centre for Urbanism & Built Environment Studies website to inform ongoing responses to the inner-city housing emergency.

A way forward

As government departments seek to make funds available, solutions must build on existing knowledge and plans, local insight, expertise, experience and ongoing dialogue. We recommend a multi-pronged and coordinated strategy.

Supply of emergency and temporary accommodation alone cannot solve the crisis. Similarly, militarised police solutions are unconstitutional and incapable of addressing housing and safety in the inner city.

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered innovative ideas for retrofitting interventions in informal settings, including safe access to water. The roll-out of water tank to areas with insuffucient water supply showed a capacity to respond to crises. With this hindsight, relevant government departments should focus their budgets on providing basic safety for occupied buildings in the immediate term.

Immediate responses should not involve removing occupants but enhancing safety through fire hydrants and extinguishers, emergency exits and clearing blocked access routes. Climate funds should be used to retrofit occupied buildings with solar panels, rainwater harvesting and other green measures.

Temporary containers can be placed alongside buildings for secure storage of items. In time, alternative partitioning materials must be introduced. Where one-way fire doors and fire wells exist, emergency LED lighting and mechanical door closers can be fitted.

Several buildings and communities are ready for these incremental improvements. Occupying communities are organised. The Inner City Federation already represents committees of over 70 buildings. They are mobilising to improve basic living conditions and to get rid of criminal syndicates. The Inner-City Resource Centre also has experience in community-based projects and engaging residents and the state. Collective tenure solutions such as community land trusts can be considered.

Any accommodation with shared facilities requires high levels of management. Successful models include co-management with residents. These are already in place in several buildings. Where temporary shelters have become de facto permanent, urban management must adjust and not be abandoned, as at 80 Albert Street.

Opportunities for social housing and emergency shelter lie in the building register of the Johannesburg Property Company and other public entities. As activists and researchers have pointed out, underused or vacant publicly owned land and buildings offer potential.

Private sector and social housing companies already respond in various ways with well managed low-income rental models. However, qualification criteria and rents may just be out of reachfor those in need. Faith-based organisations and non-profits have much to offer.

The challenges are global and responses in other contexts offer useful insights. Metropoles such as Sao Paulo have extensive high-rise housing stock, partly unused and informally occupied. In 2018, a building in Sao Paulo occupied by 171 families collapsed after a fire, killing seven people. In response, a multi-sector task force produced a report calling for measures to increase safety in occupied buildings. In some buildings, housing movements trained residents in disaster readiness  preventing another potentially catastrophic fire.

After Londons Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, which killed 72 people, rules were amended governing surveys and plans, material flammability, fire safety equipment, signage and lights.

Architects have proposed innovative and just solutions to crisesin other large metropoles. In Johannesburg, the current downturn in the building industry means new graduates are a potential workforce requiring practical experience. With state support, architects experienced in documentation, renovation, reuse of commercial and retail space, and participation could mentor them.

We call for regular and institutionalised discussion forums in which academics, community leaders, NGOs and the private sector exchange insights with politicians and officials.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Abrdn Global Premier Properties Fund is a closed-end equity mutual fund launched and managed by Alpine Woods Capital Investors, LLC. It invests in the public equity markets across the globe. The fund invests in stocks of companies operating across real estate sectors. It invests in value stocks of companies. The fund employs fundamental analysis with top-down and bottom-up stock picking approach to create its portfolio. It benchmarks the performance of its portfolio against the FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Global TR Index, MSCI US REIT Gross Total Return Index, and S&P Developed BMI Property Index Net TR Index. Abrdn Global Premier Properties Fund was formed on February 13, 2007 and is domiciled in the United States.
Eli Lilly and Company is a US-based multinational pharmaceutical company. It is the 12th largest pharmaceutical company by revenue and has offices in 16 countries. Its medicines are sold in at least 125 countries including its 8 blockbuster drugs. The company is a member of the S&P 500 and S&P 100 indices, it brought in roughly $5.5 billion in revenue for 2021 and employs more than 35,000 people across its network of research and production facilities.

Eli Lilly and Company was founded in 1876 by Colonel Eli Lilly. The colonel, a veteran of the Civil War, had recently dissolved an unsatisfactory partnership and set on his own to produce and develop medicinal chemicals. Colonel Lilly remained as president until his death in 1898. His charge to his family, company and coworkers was to take what you find here and make it better and better. The company is well-known for many drugs, including the first mass-marketing of quinine to treat malaria.

The company brought in $4,470 in its first year and saw that figure grow 10X over the next 3. Among the many innovations during this time period is the addition of gelation coatings for pills which helped set the company up for rapid expansion. The company was incorporated in 1881 as Eli Lilly and Company issuing stock to family and friends. The 1900s brought about more change for the company, change in the form of expansion which included international markets.

Advancements during the war years included increases in efficiency due to increased automation and the development of precision technologies. Among the technologies was pill manufacturing which included injecting medicines directly into a gelation capsule. This method allowed for more exact dosing, setting the standard for modern production. The company produced capsules for itself and sold excess capacity to competitors. Other major advancements include fruit flavorings in medicine, straight-line manufacturing and a method of blueprinting manufacturing tickets to prevent errors.

The modern period saw the company grow and discover new, world-class pharmaceuticals. Today, the company is engaged in the discovery, development and marketing of human pharmaceuticals. It offers a wide range of treatments, including Prozac but is perhaps most noteworthy for its work with insulin. The company is the first to mass produce insulin and has made numerous advances in treating diabetes in the time since. While other drugs are more widely known, its diabetic drugs Basaglar, Jardience, Trulicity, Humalog and Humulin are its top-sellers and contribute the bulk of revenue and cash flow.

Along with Diabetic research, the company also focuses on Alzheimer's, Oncology, Immunology, Obesity and Pain care. At the end of 2022, the company pipeline had 23 compounds in Phase 3 clinical trials and 1 in review. There were another 18 in Phase 2 trials and more than 2 dozen in Phase 1 trials. The average cost to discover a new drug was running at $2.6 billion with a 10-year discovery-to-patient timeline.
The following companies are subsidiares of Elevance Health: 1-800 Contacts, AIM Specialty Health, AMERIGROUP Community Care of New Mexico Inc., AMERIGROUP Corporation, AMERIGROUP Maryland Inc., AMERIGROUP New Jersey Inc., AMERIGROUP Ohio Inc., AMERIGROUP Tennessee Inc., AMERIGROUP Texas Inc., AMERIGROUP Washington Inc., AMGP Georgia Managed Care Company Inc., ATH Holding Company LLC, America's 1st Choice of South Carolina Inc., America's Health Management Services Inc., American Imaging Management Inc., Americas 1st Choice, Amerigroup, Amerigroup Delaware Inc., Amerigroup District of Columbia Inc., Amerigroup Health Plan of Louisiana Inc., Amerigroup IPA of New York LLC, Amerigroup Insurance Company, Amerigroup Iowa Inc., Amerigroup Kansas Inc., Amerigroup Mississippi Inc., Amerigroup Oklahoma Inc., Amerigroup Partnership Plan LLC, Amerigroup Pennsylvania Inc., Anthem Blue Cross Life and Health Insurance Company, Anthem Financial Inc., Anthem Health Plans Inc., Anthem Health Plans of Kentucky Inc., Anthem Health Plans of Maine Inc., Anthem Health Plans of New Hampshire Inc., Anthem Health Plans of Virginia Inc., Anthem Holding Corp., Anthem Innovation Israel Ltd., Anthem Insurance Companies Inc., Anthem Kentucky Managed Care Plan Inc., Anthem Life & Disability Insurance Company, Anthem Life Insurance Company, Anthem Partnership Holding Company LLC, Anthem Services Company LLC, Anthem Southeast Inc., Anthem UM Services Inc., Anthem Workers' Compensation LLC, Applied Pathways LLC, Arcus Enterprises Inc., Aspire Health Inc., Aspire Healthcare Corp, Associated Group Inc., Beacon Health Options, Blue Cross Blue Shield Healthcare Plan of Georgia Inc., Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wisconsin, Blue Cross of California, Blue Cross of California Partnership Plan Inc., CareMarket Inc., CareMore Health Plan, CareMore Health Plan of Arizona Inc., CareMore Health Plan of Nevada, CareMore Health Plan of Texas Inc., CareMore Health System, CareMore LLC, Cerulean Companies Inc., Claim Management Services Inc., Community Care Health Plan of Louisiana Inc., Community Care Health Plan of Nevada Inc., Community Insurance Company, Compcare Health Services Insurance Corporation, Crossroads Acquisition Corp., DBG Holdings Inc., DeCare Analytics LLC, DeCare Dental Health International LLC, DeCare Dental Insurance Ireland Ltd., DeCare Dental LLC, DeCare Dental Networks LLC, DeCare Operations Ireland Limited, Delivery Network LLC, Designated Agent Company Inc., EHC Benefits Agency Inc., EasyScripts Cutler Bay LLC, EasyScripts Hialeah LLC, EasyScripts LLC, EasyScripts Westchester LLC, Empire HealthChoice Assurance Inc., Empire HealthChoice HMO Inc., Federal Government Solutions LLC, Freedom Health Inc., Global TPA LLC, Golden West Health Plan Inc., Greater Georgia Life Insurance Company, HEP AP Holdings Inc., HMO Colorado Inc., HMO Missouri Inc., Health Core Inc., Health Management Corporation, Health Ventures Partner L.L.C., HealthKeepers Inc., HealthLink HMO Inc., HealthLink Inc., HealthLink Insurance Company, HealthPlus HP LLC, HealthSun Health Plans, HealthSun Health Plans Inc., HealthSun Holdings LLC, HealthSun Management LLC, HealthSun Physicians Network I LLC, HealthSun Physicians Network LLC, Healthy Alliance Life Insurance Company, Highland Acquisition Holdings LLC, Highland Holdco Inc., Highland Intermediate Holdings LLC, Highland Investor Holdings LLC, Imaging Management Holdings LLC, IngenioRx Inc., Legato Health Technologies LLP, Legato Health Technologies Philippines Inc., Legato Holdings I Inc., Legato Holdings II LLC, Living Complete Technologies Inc., Matthew Thornton Health Plan Inc., Memphis Supportive Care Partnership LLC, Meridian Resource Company LLC, Missouri Care Incorporated, NGS Federal LLC, Nash Holding Company LLC, National Government Services Inc., New England Research Institutes Inc., Optimum Healthcare Inc., Park Square Holdings Inc., Park Square I Inc., Park Square II Inc., Pasteur Medical Bird Road LLC, Pasteur Medical Center LLC, Pasteur Medical Cutler Bay LLC, Pasteur Medical Group LLC, Pasteur Medical Hialeah Gardens LLC, Pasteur Medical Holdings LLC, Pasteur Medical Kendall LLC, Pasteur Medical Management LLC, Pasteur Medical Miami Gardens LLC, Pasteur Medical North Miami Beach LLC, Pasteur Medical Partners LLC, Resolution Health Inc, Resolution Health Inc., RightCHOICE Managed Care Inc., Rocky Mountain Hospital and Medical Service Inc., SellCore Inc., Simply Healthcare Holdings, Simply Healthcare Plans Inc., Southeast Services Inc., State Sponsored DM Services Inc., The Anthem Companies Inc., The Anthem Companies of California Inc., TrustSolutions LLC, UNICARE Health Plan of West Virginia Inc., UNICARE Illinois Services Inc., UNICARE National Services Inc., UniCare Life & Health Insurance Company, UniCare Specialty Services Inc., Valus Inc., WPMI LLC, WellCare of Nebraska Inc., WellPoint Acquisition LLC, WellPoint California Services Inc., WellPoint Dental Services Inc., WellPoint Health Solutions Inc., WellPoint Holding Corp., WellPoint Information Technology Services Inc., WellPoint Insurance Services Inc., WellPoint Military Care Corporation, Wellmax Health Medical Centers LLC, Wellmax Health Physicians Network LLC, and Wisconsin Collaborative Insurance Company.

Read More
BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday he is ready to work with Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam to promote better integration and mutual improvement of the modernization process in China and Singapore.

The remarks were made in his congratulatory message to Tharman Shanmugaratnam on his assuming office as president of Singapore.

Noting that China and Singapore are each other's friendly neighbor and important partner for cooperation, Xi said that with concerted efforts of both sides, China and Singapore have jointly blazed a trail of success featuring mutual learning and win-win cooperation, which gives a strong boost to their respective development and rejuvenation, and also sets an example for cooperation among countries in the region.

This year, China-Singapore relations have been elevated to an all-round high-quality future-oriented partnership, charting the course for the high-level development of bilateral relations in the new era, Xi said.

The Chinese president said that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Singapore relations and is ready to establish a good working relationship with Tharman Shanmugaratnam to bring China-Singapore relations to new levels, promote better integration and mutual improvement of the modernization process, so as to bring more benefits to their people and make greater contributions to regional peace, prosperity and stability. 
Delta Air Lines Inc. is a major airline providing domestic and international air travel services. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Delta is one of the largest airlines in the world, operating a fleet of over 900 aircraft that serves more than 325 destinations across six continents. Delta has a long history in the airline industry. It is known for its exceptional customer service, operational reliability and industry-leading innovation.

As of the end of the fourth quarter of 2022, Delta Air Lines Inc. had a market capitalization of $24.5 billion, with over 720 million outstanding shares. The company has a strong financial position, with total revenue for the full year 2022 reaching $38.6 billion, an increase of 20% compared to the previous year. Delta's net income for the same period was $2.7 billion, up from $1.2 billion in 2021.

Delta's strong financial performance comes from several factors, including its strategic focus on customer service, operational efficiency and technological innovation. The company has invested heavily in its fleet and infrastructure and is committed to delivering passengers a safe and comfortable travel experience. Delta has also made significant investments in technology, such as its Fly Delta app and biometric boarding, which have helped to streamline the travel experience and improve customer satisfaction.

Delta is also committed to sustainable business practices, focusing on reducing its environmental impact. The company has set ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions by 50% by 2050 and has invested in fuel-efficient aircraft and sustainable aviation fuel. In addition, Delta has a comprehensive recycling program and has implemented measures to reduce waste in its operations.

Delta's strong brand recognition, customer loyalty and strategic partnerships support its competitive position in the airline industry. The company has alliances with several international airlines, such as Air France-KLM and Virgin Atlantic, enabling it to provide its customers with seamless travel experiences. Delta also has a strong presence in key markets, such as New York, Atlanta and Los Angeles, which have helped to drive its growth and profitability.

Delta also faces significant challenges in the airline industry, including intense competition from other major airlines and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic severely impacted the airline industry, with reduced demand for air travel and significant disruptions to operations. Delta responded to these challenges by implementing cost-cutting measures, such as reducing its workforce, retiring older aircraft and focusing on its core customer service and operational efficiency strengths.
iShares Russell 2000 ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Russell 2000 Index (the Index). The Index is a float-adjusted capitalization weighted index that measures the performance of the small-capitalization sector of the United States equity market and includes securities issued by the approximately 2,000 smallest issuers in the Russell 3000 Index. The Fund invests in a representative sample of securities included in the Index that collectively has an investment profile similar to the Index. The Index is a subset of the Russell 3000 Index, and serves as the underlying index for the Russell 2000 Growth and Value Index series. Component companies are adjusted for available float and must meet objective criteria for inclusion to the Index. The Fund's investment adviser is BlackRock Fund Advisors (BFA).
iShares MSCI Sweden ETF's stock was trading at $32.33 at the start of the year. Since then, EWD shares have decreased by 2.7% and is now trading at $31.46.

View the best growth stocks for 2023 here.
FMC (NYSE:FMC) pays an annual dividend of $2.32 per share and currently has a dividend yield of 4.08%. FMC has a dividend yield higher than 75% of all dividend-paying stocks, making it a leading dividend payer. The company has been increasing its dividend for 5 consecutive years, indicating the company has a new, but growing committment to grow its dividend. The dividend payout ratio is 47.25%. This payout ratio is at a healthy, sustainable level, below 75%. Based on earnings estimates, FMC will have a dividend payout ratio of 41.73% next year. This indicates that the company will be able to sustain or increase its dividend.

Read our dividend analysis for FMC.
Oracle Corporation is a leading technology company developing software solutions for businesses worldwide. Founded in 1977 by Larry Ellison, Bob Miner, and Ed Oates, the company is headquartered in Austin, Texas and has a presence in over 175 countries. Oracle's primary focus is on providing cloud-based software as a service (SaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and infrastructure as a service (IaaS) to its customers, helping them to streamline their operations and reduce costs.

The current management team at Oracle is led by Chief Executive Officer Safra Catz, who has been with the company since 1999 and served in several senior leadership positions before assuming her current role. Other key management team members include Chairman and Chief Technology Officer Larry Ellison, who co-founded the company, and Executive Vice President of Product Development, Steve Miranda.

Oracle has reported slight growth in recent years, with its revenue around $40 billion in the last several years. Its net income has also been relatively stable over the past several years. The company's debt levels have remained relatively unchanged over the past few years. Oracle's current valuation metrics show that it trades at a price-to-earnings ratio and price-to-book ratio below the industry average. These valuation metrics suggest that the stock may be undervalued compared to its peers in the technology industry.



Regarding market performance, Oracle's stock has shown some volatility in recent years but has performed well. Its stock price has increased from around $44 in 2017 to $102 in 2022, although it has experienced some dips and spikes during that time. The company has also seen an increase in trading volume in recent years, indicating that it is attracting more investor interest.

Oracle operates in the highly competitive technology industry, competing with other software giants like Microsoft and Salesforce. The industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and innovations emerging regularly. One direction that has gained prominence in recent years is adopting cloud-based solutions, which have been a key focus for Oracle. The industry is also subject to regulatory and political pressures, which can impact the operations of companies operating in the space.

Oracle has identified several growth opportunities, including developing new products and services, expanding into new markets, and making strategic acquisitions. The company has recently announced plans to expand its cloud infrastructure footprint by adding new data centers in several countries. Additionally, Oracle has made several acquisitions in recent years, including its acquisition of NetSuite in 2016 and TikTok's US operations in 2020.

Like any company, Oracle faces risks and challenges that could impact its future growth and profitability. One significant risk is the changing preferences of consumers and businesses, which could affect the demand for its products and services. Additionally, increased regulatory scrutiny and competitive pressures could impact the company's operations.
American Express Company is a multinational financial services company based in New York City. The company provides credit cards, charge cards, traveler's cheques and other financial services to individuals and businesses worldwide.



Founded in 1850, American Express has been a pioneer in the credit card industry and has developed a reputation for offering premium products and services that cater to high-income consumers. The company operates in over 130 countries and employs over 75,000 people globally.

Stephen J. Squeri has served as American Express Chairman and Chief Executive Officer since 2018, succeeding Kenneth I. Chenault. Squeri joined the company in 1985 and has held various leadership positions.



He is credited with leading the company's digital transformation and developing new partnerships with technology companies such as Apple, Google and Amazon. Other key management team members include Chief Financial Officer Jeffrey C. Campbell and Vice Chairman Douglas E. Buckminster.

American Express has consistently generated strong financial results, with revenue increasing consistently over the past few years. The company's net income has also grown during this same time frame. The company's profit margin has remained relatively stable at around 14%.



American Express has maintained a strong balance sheet, with a debt-to-equity ratio and a price-to-book ratio consistent with industry averages. Over the past couple of years, American Express' stock has performed well, leading its industry peers.

The credit card industry is highly competitive, with a few prominent players dominating the market. American Express competes with other major credit card companies, such as Visa and Mastercard and banks that issue private-label credit cards.



The industry has been growing steadily, with global credit card transactions expected to reach $8.8 trillion by 2025. However, the industry faces several challenges, including increasing regulatory scrutiny and the threat of disruption from fintech startups.

American Express has several growth opportunities, including expanding its presence in international markets and developing new partnerships with technology companies. The company has made significant progress in these areas, with global revenue growth from 2016 to 2022.



American Express has also partnered with companies such as Uber, Marriott and Delta Airlines to offer unique benefits to its cardholders. Additionally, the company has been investing in its digital capabilities by launching its digital wallet and mobile app.

Despite its stable financial performance and growth opportunities, American Express faces several risks and challenges. The company's high-end products and services may be vulnerable to changes in consumer preferences, and the company may need help to appeal to younger generations who prefer debit cards and mobile payments.



Additionally, American Express is subject to increasing regulatory scrutiny, with regulators monitoring the company's anti-money laundering practices and compliance with consumer protection laws. The company's debt levels and dependence on the global economy also pose risks, as a recession or economic downturn could impact its profitability.

Another major challenge for American Express is the increasing competition from fintech startups, disrupting the traditional credit card industry by offering innovative products and services. These startups are often more agile and adaptable than established companies like American Express and may be able to offer more attractive rewards and lower fees to customers.



To stay competitive, American Express must continue to innovate and develop new products and services that cater to changing customer preferences.
SANAA, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- An Omani delegation arrived in Yemen's rebel-held capital Sanaa on Thursday to persuade the Houthi group to resume a truce with the Yemeni government, the Houthi-run al-Masirah TV reported.

The delegation will hold talks with Houthi leaders, said the television channel, without providing details.

Oman, which borders both Yemen and Saudi Arabia, has been actively engaged in brokering a truce between the Houthi rebels and the Saudi-backed Yemeni government.

The previous truce, which was brokered by the United Nations, lasted for six months and expired in October last year. However, fighting between Houthi rebels and pro-government forces has largely abated on several frontlines in the absence of a truce.

Yemen has been mired in a civil war since 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi group seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Yemeni government out of the capital Sanaa.

The war has killed tens of thousands of people and pushed the country to the brink of starvation. 
The Coca-Cola Company is one of the worlds most recognized brands. Founded in 1886, the company today is vastly different from its creator's original intent. The original formula was invented by John Stith Pemberton as a health drink, energy boost, and patent medicine following his time in the Civil War. The name is derived from two of the original ingredients coca leaves and kola nuts, although those ingredients are not used today, and was intended to be sold in pharmacies.

Pemberton sold his formula and brand in 1889 to Asa Griggs Candler who then embarked on a nationwide advertising campaign. By 1895 Coca-Cola was being sold in every state in the union and it wouldnt be long before the beverage was being enjoyed worldwide. By 1889 the company was operating under a franchised distribution system that is still in effect today.

Today, the Coca-Cola Company primarily makes syrups that are shipped to bottler/distributors who command exclusive territories. The Coca-Cola Company retains ownership of the largest US bottler, Coca-Cola Refreshments but there are many others around the world. Coca-Cola Femsa, of which The Coca-Cola Company owns 28%, is located in Mexico and is the worlds largest bottler of Coca-Cola

The Coca-Cola Company is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and operates as a beverage company worldwide with sales in over 200 countries. The company manufactures, markets, and sells various nonalcoholic beverages and has expanded well beyond soda and pop. After years of expansion and acquisitions, The Coca-Cola Company is represented in verticals from sparkling soft drinks to flavored water, enhanced water, sports beverages, juice, dairy, tea, and coffee. Brands under the Coca-Cola umbrella include Fanta, Fresca, Schweppes, Sprite, Dasani, Gold Peak, Minute Maid, Simply, BODYARMOR, FUZE TEA, and Powerade brands.

The Coca-Cola Company first went public in 1919 and it began paying a dividend in 1920. The company has raised its dividend every year since 1962 making it a Dividend King. To put the companys growth and scale into perspective, one share of KO purchased at the IPO price of $40 was worth nearly $10 million in 2012 and the stock price has nearly doubled since then. Underwriters of the original IPO received $100,000 worth of shares in compensation for the deal and were able to sell it for $2 billion at that time. The Coca-Cola Company is also a component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average holding its position from 1932 to 1935 and from 1987 to the present.
Theratechnologies Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, focuses on the development and commercialization of various therapies to address the unmet medical needs in the United States, Canada, and Europe. The company offers EGRIFTA and EGRIFTA SV for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients with lipodystrophy; and Trogarzo, a recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody, which is an injection for the treatment of multidrug resistant HIV-1 infected patients. Its pipeline products include F8 Formulation for the treatment of lipodystrophy in people living with HIV; and TH1902, which is in Phase 1 clinical trials for the treatment of various solid tumors, including HR+ breast cancer, triple negative breast cancer, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, melanoma, thyroid cancer, small cell lung cancer, and prostate cancer. The company was incorporated in 1993 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada.
The following companies are subsidiares of Trane Technologies: 200 PARK INC., ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES ACQUISITION S.A R.L, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES ASIA PTE. LTD., ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES BORROWER S.C.A., ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES CANADA INC, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES LLC, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES MIDDLE EAST FZE, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES S.A R.L, ACCUDYNE INDUSTRIES SERVICES LIMITED, ARCTIC COOL CHILLERS LIMITED, ARO DE VENEZUELA C.A., Airtec Limited, Amair Limited, Best Matic International Limited, Best Matic Vermogensverwaltungs Gmbh, CALMAC Corp, CLIMATE ETC TECHNOLOGY SERVICES PRIVATE LIMITED, CLUB CAR LLC, Calmac Corp., Cameron International Corporation - Centrifugal Compression Business, Club Car Limited, Comercial Ingersoll-Rand (Chile) Limitada, Compagnie Ingersoll-Rand Sas, Cool Energy Limited, DOSATRON INTERNATIONAL S.A.S., Diasorin International B.V., Dradnats Inc., Ebb Holdings Limited, EcoFactor, FRIGOBLOCK, FRIGOBLOCK GMBH, Filairco Inc., Flowcool Limited, Frigoblock Uk Limited, GPS INDUSTRIES LLC, GPSI HOLDINGS LLC, GPSI LEASING II - ACCORD LLC, GPSI LEASING LLC, Ghh-Rand Schraubenkompressoren Gmbh, Golf Academies Limited, Gpsi Telematics Llc, HASKEL EUROPE LTD., HASKEL FRANCE S.A.S., HASKEL HOLDINGS UK LIMITED, HASKEL INTERNATIONAL LLC, HASKEL SISTEMAS DE FLUIDOS ESPANA S.R.L., Hermann Trane Harrisburg Inc., Hibon Inc., ICS Cool Energy, ICS Cool Energy Limited, INGERSOLL RAND ITS JAPAN LTD., INGERSOLL RAND MAROC S.A R.L, INGERSOLL RAND S.A. DE C.V., INGERSOLL RAND-TRANE ENERGY-SAVING SERVICES (SHANGHAI) CO. LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND (CHANG ZHOU) TOOLS CO. LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND (CHINA) INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING CO. LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND (SHANGHAI) TRADING CO. LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND CHINA LLC, INGERSOLL-RAND COMERCIO E SERVICOS DE MAQUINAS E EQUIPAMENTOS INDUSTRIAIS LTDA., INGERSOLL-RAND DE MEXICO SOCIEDAD DE RESPONSABILIDAD LIMITADA DE CAPITAL VARIABLE, INGERSOLL-RAND DE PUERTO RICO INC., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIA COMERCIO E SERVICOS DE AR CONDICIONADO AR COMPRIMIDO E REFRIGERACAO LTDA., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIAL COMPANY B.V., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIAL SP. Z O.O., INGERSOLL-RAND INDUSTRIAL U.S. INC., INGERSOLL-RAND JAPAN LTD., INGERSOLL-RAND LATIN AMERICA S. DE R.L. DE C.V., INGERSOLL-RAND LUX INVESTMENTS S.A R.L., INGERSOLL-RAND LUXEMBOURG INDUSTRIAL COMPANY S.A R.L., INGERSOLL-RAND MANUFACTURA S. DE R.L DE C.V., INGERSOLL-RAND NY INC., INGERSOLL-RAND PHILIPPINES INC., INGERSOLL-RAND PORTUGAL - SOCIEDADE UNIPESSOAL LDA., INGERSOLL-RAND SALES COMPANY LLC, INGERSOLL-RAND SPAIN S.A., INGERSOLL-RAND U.S. HOLDCO INC., Ics Cool Energy (Sas), Ics Cool Energy Ag, Ics Cool Energy B.V., Ics Cool Energy Gmbh, Ics Cool Energy Investments Limited, Ics Group Holdings Limited, Ics Heat Pumps Limited, Ics Renewable Energy Limited, Ics Servicing Limited, Industrial Chill Servicing Private Ltd., Ingersoll Rand Service Do Brasil Ltda., Ingersoll-Rand (Australia) Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand (China) Investment Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand (Guilin) Tools Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand (Hong Kong) Holding Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand (India) Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Ab, Ingersoll-Rand Air Solutions Hibon Sarl, Ingersoll-Rand Best-Matic Ab, Ingersoll-Rand Beteiligungs Und Grundstucksverwaltungs Gmbh, Ingersoll-Rand Buford Llc, Ingersoll-Rand Charitable Foundation, Ingersoll-Rand Climate Solutions Private Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Club Car S.A.S., Ingersoll-Rand Colombia S.A.S., Ingersoll-Rand Company, Ingersoll-Rand Company Limited (Uk), Ingersoll-Rand Company Of Peru S.A.C., Ingersoll-Rand Company South Africa (Pty) Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Costa Rica S.A., Ingersoll-Rand Croatia D.O.O. Za Trgovinu, Ingersoll-Rand Cz S.R.O., Ingersoll-Rand Equipements De Production S.A.S., Ingersoll-Rand European Holding Company B.V., Ingersoll-Rand Financial Services Corporation, Ingersoll-Rand Financing Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Finland Oy, Ingersoll-Rand Funding Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand Global Holding Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Gmbh, Ingersoll-Rand Holdings B.V., Ingersoll-Rand Holdings Limited, Ingersoll-Rand International (India) Private Limited, Ingersoll-Rand International Finance Limited, Ingersoll-Rand International Holding Llc, Ingersoll-Rand International Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Irish Holdings Unlimited Company, Ingersoll-Rand Italia S.R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Italiana S.P.A., Ingersoll-Rand Korea Holding Llc, Ingersoll-Rand Korea Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Latin America B.V., Ingersoll-Rand Lux Euro Iii Financing S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Lux Holdings Ii Company S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Lux International Holding Company S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Luxembourg Finance S.A., Ingersoll-Rand Luxembourg United S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Machinery (Shanghai) Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Malaysia Co. Sdn. Bhd., Ingersoll-Rand Manufacturing S.R.O., Ingersoll-Rand Netherlands B.V., Ingersoll-Rand Nexia Intelligence Llc, Ingersoll-Rand Polska Sp. Z.O.O., Ingersoll-Rand Rus Llc, Ingersoll-Rand S.A., Ingersoll-Rand Services And Trading Limited Liability Company, Ingersoll-Rand Services Company, Ingersoll-Rand Services Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Singapore Enterprises Pte. Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand South East Asia (Pte.) Ltd., Ingersoll-Rand Superay Holdings Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Svenska Ab, Ingersoll-Rand Technical And Services Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Technical And Services S.A.R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Technologies And Services Private Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Technologies S.R.O., Ingersoll-Rand Tool Holdings Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Trading Gmbh, Ingersoll-Rand Uk Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Ukraine Limited Liability Company, Ingersoll-Rand Vietnam Company Limited, Ingersoll-Rand Worldwide Capital S.A R.L., Ingersoll-Rand Zimbabwe (Private) Limited, Ir Canada Holdings Ulc, Ir Canada Sales & Service Ulc, Ir France Sas, MILTON ROY (HONG KONG) LIMITED, MILTON ROY (UK) LIMITED, MILTON ROY EUROPA B.V., MILTON ROY EUROPE SAS, MILTON ROY INDUSTRIAL (SHANGHAI) CO. LTD., MILTON ROY LLC, MILTON ROY US PURCHASER INC., Mb Air Systems Limited, Officina Meccaniche Industriali Srl, PERFECT PITCH L.P., Plurifilter D.O.O., Precision Flow Systems, Prime Air Limited, Pt Ingersoll-Rand Indonesia, Pt Trane Indonesia, R&O Immobilien Gmbh, REFTRANS S.A., STANDARD CENTENNIAL PROPERTY LLC, Shanghai Ingersoll-Rand Compressor Limited, Societe Trane Sas, Spanashview Unlimited Company, Standard Compressors Inc., Standard Trane Insurance Company, Standard Trane Insurance Ireland Designated Activity Company, Standard Trane Warranty Company, T.I. Solutions (Israel) Ltd., THE TRANE COMPANY, THERMO KING (HONG KONG) COMPANY LIMITED, THERMO KING (SHANGHAI) CO. LTD., THERMO KING DE PUERTO RICO INC., THERMO KING PUERTO RICO MANUFACTURA INC., THERMO KING RODAMIENTOS S.L., THERMO KING SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD., THERMO KING SVC INC., TK PUERTO RICO AIRE INC., TK PUERTO RICO COMERCIAL INC., TK PUERTO RICO ENSAMBLAJE INC., TK PUERTO RICO FABRICACION INC., TK PUERTO RICO LOGISTICA INC., TK PUERTO RICO OPERACIONES INDUSTRIALES INC., TK PUERTO RICO PRODUCCION INC., TK PUERTO RICO SOLUCIONES CLIMATICAS INC., TK PUERTO RICO TECNOLOGIAS INC., TRANE (EUROPE) LIMITED, TRANE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS AND SERVICE CO. LIMITED, TRANE BRANDS INC., TRANE CENTRAL AMERICA INC., TRANE DOMINICANA S.R.L., TRANE ENERGY CHOICE LLC, TRANE ENERGY SERVICES LLC, TRANE HOLDING LIMITED, TRANE JAPAN LTD., TRANE KOREA INC., TRANE S.A. DE C.V., TRANE SERVICEFIRST C.A., TRANE SERVICES LIMITED, TRANE SINGAPORE ENTERPRISES PTE. LTD., TRANE SISTEMAS INTEGRALES S. DE R.L. DE C.V., TRANE SYSTEMS SOLUTIONS OF PANAMA INC., TRANE THERMO KING (SHANGHAI) ENTERPRISE MANAGEMENT CO. LTD., TRANE THERMO KING PTY LTD, TWENTYTHREEC LLC, Thermo King Container Temperature Control (Suzhou) Corporation Ltd., Thermo King Container-Denmark A/S, Thermo King Corporation, Thermo King European Manufacturing Limited, Thermo King India Private Limited, Thermo King Ireland Limited, Thermo King Services Limited, Thermo King Trading Company, Thermo King Transportkoeling B.V., Tm Air Conditioning Sdn. Bhd., Trane (Ireland) Limited, Trane (Schweiz) Gmbh / Trane (Suisse) S.A.R.L., Trane (Thailand) Limited, Trane Air Conditioning Products Limited, Trane Air Conditioning Systems (China) Co. Ltd., Trane Airconditioning Pte. Ltd., Trane Aire Acondicionado S.L., Trane Bermuda Ltd., Trane Bvba, Trane Canada Lp, Trane Canada Ulc, Trane China Holdings Limited, Trane Climate Manufacturing S.R.L., Trane Cr Spol Sro., Trane De Argentina S.A., Trane De Chile S.A., Trane De Colombia S.A., Trane Deutschland Gmbh, Trane Distribution Pte Ltd, Trane Do Brasil Industria E Comercio De Productos Para Condicionamento De Ar Ltda., Trane Egypt Llc, Trane Europe Holdings B.V., Trane Export Llc, Trane Finance Sprl, Trane Foundation Of New York, Trane France Sas, Trane Gmbh, Trane Gp Inc., Trane Grid Services Llc, Trane Hellas S.A., Trane Holding Co., Trane Holdings Company Yk, Trane Hungary Kft, Trane Inc., Trane Inc. Of Delaware, Trane India Ltd., Trane International Inc., Trane Ip Inc., Trane Italia S.R.L, Trane Klima Ticaret As, Trane Malaysia Sales & Services Sdn. Bhd., Trane Puerto Rico Llc, Trane Romania S.R.L., Trane S.A., Trane S.A.E., Trane Support Sas, Trane Sweden Ab, Trane Taiwan Distribution Ltd., Trane U.S. Inc., Trane Vidalia Llc, Trane Vietnam Services Company Limited, Tricool Thermal Limited, Tsi Anstalt Ltd., World Standard Ltd., and Zeks Compressed Air Solutions Llc.

Read More
United Parcel Service, Inc. is a global package delivery and logistics company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. The company was founded in 1907 and has since become a significant player in the logistics industry. UPS operates in more than 220 countries and territories, with a network of over 500,000 employees worldwide.

UPS's primary business is package delivery, but the company also provides supply chain solutions and specialized transportation services. In recent years, UPS has expanded into e-commerce, offering services like same-day delivery and order fulfillment for online retailers. In addition to its delivery services, UPS also operates a freight division that provides air and ground transportation for commercial shipments.

UPS has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, with initiatives such as alternative fuel vehicles and a carbon offset program for shipping. Fortune magazine has also named the company one of the World's Most Admired Companies for several years.

UPS is led by CEO Carol Tome, who joined the company in 1995 and became CEO in 2020. Tome has extensive finance experience and served as The Home Depot's CFO before joining UPS. In addition to Tome, UPS's executive team includes Executive Vice President and President of U.S. operations, Nando Cesarone, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer Kevin Warren, and Chief Financial Officer Brian Newman.

UPS has reported stable revenue over the past several years. UPS's profit margins have remained steady, with an average gross profit margin of 56.4% and an operating margin of approximately 9.3%. UPS has a strong balance sheet, with total assets of $69.4 billion and total liabilities of $43.4 billion as of the end of 2022.



The company's debt-to-equity ratio is higher than the industry average but within a reasonable range. UPS's valuation metrics are generally in line with industry peers, and overall, UPS's valuation suggests that the market views the company as fairly valued. UPS's stock performance has been robust in recent years, with the company's share price increasing by 33% from 2020 to 2022. This outperformed the S&P 500 index, which increased by 26% over the same period. Trading volume for UPS has been relatively stable, with an average daily volume of around 2.83 million shares.

The logistics industry is highly competitive, with several large players vying for market share. In addition to traditional competitors such as FedEx and DHL, UPS competes with newer players in the e-commerce space, such as Amazon and Shopify. The industry is also subject to regulatory and political pressures, such as changes in trade policies and labor regulations.

Despite these challenges, the logistics industry is expected to grow in the coming years. E-commerce, in particular, is driving demand for package delivery and supply chain solutions, and UPS is well-positioned to benefit from this trend.

UPS has several potential growth opportunities in the coming years. The company's expansion into e-commerce has been a significant growth driver, and this trend is expected to continue. UPS's recent acquisition of Roadie, a same-day delivery platform, could also help the company capture more business in the rapidly growing same-day delivery market.

In addition to e-commerce, UPS is investing in technology to improve its operations and customer experience. The company is testing drone delivery in specific markets and has developed digital tools to help customers manage their shipments.

UPS has also announced plans to expand its presence in healthcare logistics. The company has already invested in specialized facilities and services for pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers, and this market is expected to continue growing in the coming years.

UPS faces risks and challenges like any company that could impact its future performance. One critical risk is the potential for increased competition, particularly from newer entrants in the e-commerce space. These companies may have lower overhead costs and more agile business models, making it more difficult for UPS to compete on price and speed.

Another risk for UPS is the potential for regulatory or political changes that could impact the logistics industry. Changes in trade policies or labor regulations could increase costs for the company or limit its ability to operate in certain markets.
GUANGZHOU, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Local authorities in south China's Guangdong Province have captured 44 crocodiles on the loose after a rain-triggered flood cracked open a farm for the reptiles.

The escape happened on Monday morning after Typhoon Haikui unleashed torrential downpours and a deluge in the Beijieluo Village under the city of Maoming, causing two cracks in the enclosure of the crocodile farm, according to the city's publicity department.

The local government has since mobilized nearly 1,000 people into a round-the-clock search, including police, militia, firefighters and professional crocodile hunters.

As of 3 p.m. Thursday, 44 crocodiles had been caught, while the exact number of runaway crocodiles is unknown. The department said no crocodile attacks have been reported so far.

Seventy-one Siamese crocodiles, including two juveniles, lived on the farm before the enclosure damage. Authorities are still draining the pool to verify the number of remaining crocodiles. 
Guizhou Province in southwest China, home to a number of ethnic groups, is known for its rich and diverse ethnic cultures. It is also a significant source of labor export. Approximately 9 million individuals, including a significant number of women, seek employment opportunities outside of Guizhou annually.

Embroiderers work in Long Luying's workshop. [People's Daily Online/Mo Guibin]

In order to help more women find employment and entrepreneurship opportunities nearby and increase their income, Guizhou Province implemented a "Jinxiu" program, which means beautiful brocade, for local women in July 2013, to promote synchronous development of traditional ethnic handicraft industries and women's cause, with embroidery, batik, and ethnic costumes and clothing as the focus.

Over the following 10 years, the program has successfully supported and developed more than 1,300 women's handicraft enterprises and cooperatives, enabling nearly 500,000 women to start businesses and be employed, and generating an impressive output value of over 6 billion yuan ($823.55 million).

In a well-known local Miao embroidery workshop in Shibing County, Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, groups of embroiderers were sitting in circles, humming folk songs, and stitching swiftly.

"I just finished negotiating an order with a customer. I'm just busy," said Long Luying, who runs the workshop, wearing a flower in her hair, dressed in embroidered clothes and silver ornaments.

She told People's Daily that the support she received from all relevant parties was crucial to this workshop, which has turned from a shop of embroidered fabrics to a workshop of intangible cultural heritage that integrates R&D, production, sales and training.

In 2000, Long made the decision to return to her hometown after spending 15 years working in various cities, where she witnessed the rapid development and progress of big cities. However, upon her return, she was disheartened to find that her village remained underdeveloped, and her fellow female villagers, despite possessing exceptional embroidery skills, were struggling to generate a stable income from their craft. Therefore, she decided to start a business at home.

In Shibing County, embroidered fabrics were very popular with tourists, which Long saw as a business opportunity. In 2006, after recruiting eight embroiderers, Long's Miao embroidery shop officially opened. She single-handedly managed the daily operations of the workshop, from finding customers and orders to purchasing materials, and to producing embroidered fabrics.

An embroiderer works in a smart workshop. [People's Daily Online/Mo Guibin]

Just as the shop's business started to thrive, Long faced challenges when attempting to expand production. Due to the varying techniques and skill levels among the embroiderers, achieving standardized production was quite difficult without proper systematic training.

The implementation of the Jinxiu program changed this situation. An important task of the program was to carry out large-scale training, to improve embroiderers' cultural literacy and modern designing capability in aspects like techniques, practical operation, marketing, and design.

At the same time, the program offered financial subsidies and project support for outstanding workshops, cooperatives or enterprises across the province to cultivate female inheritors of traditional handicraft.

Since 2013, with support from relevant departments, Long has been able to carry out training in surrounding Miao villages. The training has now covered eight villages in three townships, joined by a total of over 2,660 people.

To further expand the market, Long and other inheritors of intangible cultural heritage and workshop owners often participate in exhibitions held both at home and abroad under the organization and arrangement of the Guizhou Department of Commerce. With exquisite workmanship and unique designs, their sales channels have been increasingly widened.

Long said that in the past, she had to search for buyers of embroidered fabrics, but now buyers come to her. "This is because the embroiderers' techniques have become more standardized, resulting in high-quality products that are in demand," she explained.

Tai Banhai is an embroiderer who works at Long's workshop. In the past, she and her husband had to work in Guangdong province in order to earn a living, which unfortunately meant being separated from their daughter for extended periods of time.

Workers of Long Luying's workshop sell products via livestreaming. [People's Daily Online/Mo Guibin]

Long's workshop has provided Tai with the opportunity to achieve a better work-life balance. She is now able to take her daughter to school every day, and cook meals for her family at home. In her spare time, she visits the workshop to either work on embroidery projects or collect materials for processing. With the piecework standards in place, Tai can earn a monthly income of 3,000 yuan, which is more than enough to cover the household expenses.

"Thanks to the Miao embroidery workshop, I have the opportunity to work close to my home. Now many female friends of mine have gradually returned home, and there are fewer left-behind children," said Tai.

In addition to creating employment opportunities, Long's Miao embroidery workshop has also played a crucial role in preserving and passing down the art of embroidery.

Over the years, the workshop has successfully trained and nurtured more than 100 apprentices, many of whom have gone on to establish their own embroidery workshops.

To enhance the workshop's resilience, Long has been actively promoting transformation and upgrading. One such initiative is the exploration of smart Miao embroidery, achieved through collaborations with universities. This digital transformation has enabled the traditional handicraft to evolve into industrial embroidery, significantly increasing production efficiency by 50 times while reducing costs to just 10 percent of hand embroidery.

As a result, the workshop now primarily relies on machine embroidery for indoor decoration products, while fashion design works remain purely handmade. This combination, coupled with online and offline sales strategies, has made the workshop more resilient. Orders for both machine and hand embroidery are now scheduled months in advance.

So far, Long has created jobs for 1,297 embroiderers. Starting from a modest figure, the workshop's annual output value has now surpassed 26 million yuan, making the workshop the leading player in traditional ethnic handicrafts within Guizhou Province.

(Source: People's Daily Online)
The Biden administration asked the Supreme Court to pause an appeals court ruling that limits the ability of the White House and key agencies to communicate with social media companies about content related to Covid-19 and elections the government views as misinformation.
DAR ES SALAAM, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on Thursday swore in 24 High Court and Court of Appeal judges in a move aimed at enhancing the administration of justice in the country.

Hassan swore in 20 High Court judges and four Court of Appeal judges she had appointed recently, bringing the total of judges to 105 in the country.

"You have a workload ahead of you to clear pending cases in High Courts and Courts of Appeal," President Hassan told the judges after she had sworn them in at the State House in Dar es Salaam.

The head of state also urged the judiciary to restore people's trust by working hard toward the administration of justice.

Chief Justice Ibrahim Juma thanked the president for appointing and swearing in the new judges, saying in total, Hassan has appointed 19 Court of Appeal judges and 63 High Court judges during the two and half years of her administration.

Juma called on the judges to strive to conduct themselves with integrity, saying those failing to do so will be taken to task. 
Escaped Pennsylvania killer Danilo Cavalcante was planning to flee to Canada before he was captured, US marshal says
Hunter Biden, son of US President Joe Biden, departs the J. Caleb Boggs Federal Building and United States Courthouse on July 26 in Wilmington, Delaware.
A picture taken on June 16, shows bodies strewn outdoors near houses in the West Darfur state capital El Geneina, amid ongoing fighting between two generals in war-torn Sudan.
Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, meets with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Moros in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 14, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- China's top legislator Zhao Leji on Thursday met with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Moros in Beijing.

Zhao, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, said that China-Venezuela relations have withstood the test of the evolving international landscape and remained rock-solid.

Noting that President Xi Jinping and President Maduro on Wednesday announced the elevation of the China-Venezuela relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership, Zhao said this reflects the high level of China-Venezuela strategic cooperation, meets the common expectations of the two peoples and demonstrates the two countries' firm determination to jointly build a more just and equitable international order.

Zhao said that China's NPC is willing to maintain close exchanges at all levels and in all fields with Venezuela's National Assembly, carry out exchanges of legislative experience, continue to consolidate the iron-clad friendship between China and Venezuela, and better benefit the two countries and two peoples.

Maduro said the visit was fruitful and of historic significance. The Venezuelan side is willing to work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, strengthen high-level exchanges, deepen practical cooperation and push for the strong development of the all-weather strategic partnership between the two countries. 

Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, meets with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Moros in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 14, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)
A right-wing conspiracy to destroy public education and undermine democratic rights has gained momentum in 2023, as US capitalism descended further into crisis. The two parties of big business have careened sharply to the right, expressing the fear of the ruling elite of the escalating class struggle and a broad turn by young people towards socialism.

Using the deceptive term parental rights to camouflage their assault on culture, on the principle of social equality, and on the conditions and democratic rights of educators and students, right-wing officials have adopted authoritarian policies and enacted repressive legislation in states across the US. This includes state backing for the censorship of books, bans on certain curriculums and punitive attacks on teachers.

Danny Gonzalez, Jen Wiersma and Dr. Joseph Komrosky are currently members of the Temecula Valley Unified School District (TVUSD) board. [Photo: Joseph Komrosky/ https://www.drk4tvusd.com/]

Over the last two years, over a hundred parental rights bills have been introduced. This year, lawmakers across at least 24 states introduced 63 such bills. In 2022, Floridas Parental Rights in Education Act, known as the Dont Say Gay bill, was signed into law, soon followed by the Stop WOKE act.

The chilling implications of these bills were illustrated when Floridas Manatee County school officials instructed teachers to cover all their books. Educators were told they could be charged with a third degree felony should they share a book deemed illegal. Don Falls, a Manatee County history teacher speaking to ABC News, said this included not only volumes deemed obscene by the bigoted authorities, but also books that supposedly made students feel uncomfortable.

He said, I was doing a couple of lessons on civil rights, looking at the Albany movement, Birmingham in 1963. And, of course, some of those images of those periods can be quite upsetting: dogs turned on little girls, fire hoses. Im showing them some of these images, in the back of my mind, I was saying, Well, if a student here gets upset about these, have I violated the law?

In other words, this censorship is primarily directed against historical truth and left-wing views. It is no surprise, therefore, that the main funders of the parents rights movement are extreme right-wing groups. They include the American Legislative Exchange Committee (ALEC), Donald Trump, Hillsdale College, The Cato Institute and others. Historically, parents rights was invoked to oppose school integration, science and sex education.

Although the Republicans have authored most of the current bills, the Democrats laid the groundwork. For decades, the Democrats have carried out massive cuts in state and federal budgets, opening the schoolhouse doors to parasitic Wall Street interests via education reform, and overseeing the vast expansion of charter schools. At the same time, the Democrats have either stood by or partnered with Republicans in the shredding of fundamental democratic rights, including the right to an abortion, voting rights, the rights of immigrants and the due process rights of the accused.

This bipartisan assault on public education is part of the attack on all democratic rights. It expresses the subordination of all social rights and the allocation of public funds to the priorities of the ruling elitefirst and foremost, war and the preparation of future wars for American hegemonybut also including intensified exploitation of the working class and reprisals against critical thinking, culture, internationalism and socialism.

The parental rights movement goes hand in hand with the effort to create an entirely class-based system of education, in which the working class is relegated to mere work-ready training, while the rich are afforded access to the best education money can buy.

Parental rights is not an expansion of rights, but an Orwellian term for the destruction of the right to free, high-quality public education and culture.

Parental rights bills

As noted in a report published by PEN America in August, existing law allows parents some discretion over the education of their own children in public schools, including the ability to review instructional materials for their children and opt them out of sexual education. The current wave of laws, by way of contrast, allows a right-wing minority to dictate the school curriculum for all children.

To this end, the bills include enhanced curriculum and library inspection provisions; expanded powers of parents to demand an a la carte curriculum catered to their specific beliefs or religion; anti-LGBTQ bans; expanded definitions of material deemed obscene and harmful to minors; classroom surveillance provisions; parental rights enforcement provisions; and provisions requiring schools to monitor and report on students gender identity.

Such provisions are being widened to include not only the parents of students, but the public at large. Many of the bills add requirements for already resource-strapped districts to publicize on their websites the rights of parents, school curriculum and library inventories, and detailed procedures for parents and members of the public to object to educational materials.

Should teachers or districts violate the parental rights or state curriculum bans, they face the threat of monetary fines, civil suits and loss of credentials. One of the purposes of these laws is to create an atmosphere of educational intimidation in which educators and students engage in self-censorship.

The following is a selection of the dozens of state bills that have either been enacted this year or are currently under review.

In May, Iowa Republicans enacted a bill that:

Threatens librarians, school workers and administrators who violate the states standards related to age-appropriate library material with hearings and unspecified disciplinary action.

Forces administrators to report to parents if their child expresses a change in his/her gender identity.

Requires districts to publicize instructions on how parents or residents of the school district can request copies to review instructional materials.

Prohibits instruction related to gender and sexuality in grades K-6.

Strikes language from existing laws specifying that health curricula in grades 7-8 related to sexually transmitted diseases include teaching about HPV, the HPV vaccine, and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

In August, North Carolina lawmakers overrode a veto by Democratic Governor Roy Cooper and enacted a Parents Bill of Rights. Very similar to the Iowa bill, it prohibits instruction related to gender identity and sexuality in grades K-4, even though these topics are not part of the K-4 curriculum; requires schools to establish procedures for parents to inspect and review all instructional materials and to establish a process for parents to object to material; and requires school personnel to inform parents of changes to a students preferred name or pronoun.

One of the bills primary sponsors, Amy Galey, is also a leading sponsor of a vast school voucher expansion bill, expected to pass soon, which will universalize eligibility to all students, thereby funneling millions of dollars behind private education for wealthy families. It is estimated that the proposal will cost taxpayers $500 million by 2031.

A current bill under review in Massachusetts, along the same lines, was sponsored by two Republicans and one Democrat.

Alongside these repressive laws, legislation is being introduced to vastly expand the diversion of public funds to private and religious schools. This year, FutureEd has identified 137 such bills in 42 states, 12 of which have been enacted.

One of multiple bills under review in Texas explicitly lumps parental rights together with the establishment of an educational savings account programa thinly veiled legal ruse that provides a workaround to legalize state support for private and religious schools.

Who is behind this movement?

Parental rights, like school choice and parent-triggers, was designed by the financial oligarchy as a weapon against public education, which the capitalist oligarchs consider an unacceptable deduction from private profits.

ParentalRights.org (and its co-organization, the Parental Rights Foundation) is calling for a Parental Rights Amendment to the US Constitution, and is intimately involved in many of the state legislative efforts.

This group was founded in 2007 by Michael Farris, a Christian fundamentalist lawyer and creator of the Home School Legal Defense Association, which has played a leading role since the 1980s in legalizing and deregulating home schooling. He is also the former president and CEO of the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), a fascistic Christian legal advocacy group, which the Southern Poverty Law Center describes as a hate group, with a particular focus on opposing abortion and LGBTQ rights.

Farris, who has made millions working with ADF, according to tax filings, is a well connected Republican implicated in Donald Trumps coup attempt. Farris drafted the original version of the lawsuit that Ken Paxton, then-attorney general of Texas, filed against multiple states in order to invalidate Bidens victory, according to the New York Times.

In 1995, Harris helped draft a piece of federal legislation, the Parental Rights and Responsibilities Act, which sought to put parental rights in the federal code and create a framework for aggrieved parents to take their complaints to federal court. The basic premise of the legislation, that parents have a fundamental right to direct the upbringing of the child, underlies the laws being pushed through today.

Many of the contemporary state bills draw from model legislation published by ParentalRights.org, drafted by William Estrada, president of the organization until June 2023 and now senior legal counsel at the Home School Legal Defense Association. Estrada himself was home-schooled as a child and also home-schools his own children.

In a detailed report on the parental rights initiatives in the 1990s, Deanna Duby of the liberal advocacy group People for the American Way, identified two main groups behind the national campaign. These were Of the People (OTP) and the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC).

From 1996 to 1998, OTP was co-chaired by billionaire oligarch Betsy DeVos, secretary of education under Trump, whose entire political history has been marked by an effort to privatize education, a mission into which she and her family have poured tens of millions of dollars.

Donald Trump and former Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos [AP Photo/Evan Vucci]

OTP was founded in 1993 explicitly to amend all state constitutions to include parental rights. In the early-to-mid-1990s, OTP and ALEC attempted to introduce such amendments in 28 states. Most significant was a ballot campaign they initiated in Colorado, which voters ultimately rejected. Highlighting the top-down genesis of this initiative, 97 percent of the money used to put the issue on the ballot in Colorado came from Virginia-based Of the People. It was based on funding from right-wing billionaire-controlled organizations, including the Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation and the Scaife Family Foundation.

OTP was not secretive about its goals. Duby cites an interview with the Washington Post in which OTP founder Jeffrey Bell (former aide to presidents Nixon and Reagan) explained that the legislation would scare teachers and districts with the threat of lawsuits, thus making them more likely to accommodate parents requests.

More fundamentally, however, as he revealed in OTPs magazine Voice, only under conditions where public schools deteriorate further, perhaps to the point of breakdown, would the primary obstacle to voucher programsdeep-rooted opposition to diverting public funding to private and religious schoolsbe overcome.

The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) remains a powerful network linking corporations, legislators and private foundations. It produces model legislation for a broad range of extreme right-wing agendas, including school choice expansion, stand your ground laws, and restrictions on voting rights. ALECs website states it has 2,000 members, including 300 major corporations.

During the same time, the mid-1990s time period, it was the Democratic administration of Bill Clinton that championed the formerly fringe right-wing call for school choice and the marketization of public education, with the support of billionaire Bill Gates. This culminated in the 1998 passage of the Charter School Expansion Act. The school choice, anti-public school agenda was vastly expanded under both Bush and Obama, with the latter overseeing massive budget cuts and school reform, resulting in the loss of 300,000 educators jobs.

A new crop of organizations has taken the spotlight in the so-called parents movement of today, such as Moms for Liberty and Parents Defending Education (PDE). They all fraudulently claim to be grassroots, but are funded by and politically subservient to the same corporate and Republican-aligned organizations, such as ALEC, the Koch network and the Heritage Foundation. PDE founder and president, Nicole Neily, for example, is a well-greased conservative operative who has worked with the Cato Institute (formerly Charles Koch). The Cato Institute was co-founded by libertarian Murray Rothbard, who opposed compulsory education and civil rights, and explicitly repudiated the struggle for equality.

Former President Donald Trump speaks at the Moms for Liberty meeting in Philadelphia, Friday, June 30, 2023. [AP Photo/Matt Rourke]

Moms for Liberty, founded in early 2021 to dismantle anti-COVID public health measures in schools, was immediately provided political, organizational and financial support from high within the Republican Party. In 2022, the Heritage Foundation awarded it with a Citizenship Award, and its recent summit featured Republican presidential candidates Donald Trump, Ron DeSantis, Asa Hutchinson, Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy. The organization was given substantial seed money by Publix Super Markets heiress Julie Fancelli, who provided major funding for the Stop the Steal rally that preceded the January 6 coup attempt.

The chilling impact in schools

The impact of these laws attests to their repressive, anti-democratic character.

In Florida, passage of the Parental Rights in Education Act, along with a series of other right-wing censorship bills, has created a stifling climate of intimidation, which has led the Hillsborough school district (the seventh largest in the US) and school districts in other counties to limit the teaching of Shakespeare, in addition to 357 other books banned statewide as of April. Earlier this year, the state launched an investigation into a first-year teacher after she showed her class a Disney movie, Strange World, because it featured a gay character.

On August 17, fifth-grade teacher Katie Rinderle was fired by the Cobb County, Georgia school board after she read her class a childrens book about non-binary gender identity. The board justified her firing on the grounds that she violated district policy conforming to state laws passed in 2022namely, a parents rights bill and one banning the teaching of divisive concepts.

For every teacher who is investigated, disciplined or fired, there will be hundreds or thousands who engage in self-censorship in order to avoid such consequences.

In addition to punitive measures by school districts and the state, teachers face increasing intimidation and attacks from fascistic layers that are whipped up by the rhetoric that often surrounds parental rights, including warnings of pornographic books and grooming within public schools. One Moms for Liberty member in Arkansas was recorded saying that if she had mental health issues, all the librarians would be plowed down by a freaking gun.

But these layers are the small minority. Without the legal and extra-legal encouragement of the bourgeoisie, they would be politically and socially isolated.

A recent report in the Tampa Bay Times showed just how few public school parents support the crusade against their childrens schools and educators. Out of 1,100 complaints lodged against library material in Florida since 2022, 600 came from just two individuals. The majority of school districts had not received a single complaint, and when Clay County allowed 39,000 parents to limit library access for their children, only six chose to do so.

State government intimidation and repression, and incitement of fascistic layers in the population, will further drive educators away from the profession, exacerbating the nationwide educator and school staff shortage. This, in turn, fuels a vicious cycle: over-packed and under-resourced classrooms, low performance, budget cuts and school closures, followed by cynical calls for expanded voucher programs and charter conversions to save children from failing schools.

The origins of public education, the enlightenment, and the fight for equality

Public education emerged out of the democratic revolutions of the 18th and 19th centuries, which were based on the liberating outlook known as the Enlightenment, whose motto, according to Immanuel Kant, was Sapere aude! (Dare to know!)

Enlightenment thought asserted that through the application of reason and the scientific investigation of nature, humanity could improve its conditions. This revolutionary idea upended the ideological justification for feudalism and the divine right of kings, and inspired the struggles for emancipation and social equality for centuries.

Following the American Revolution, Thomas Jefferson introduced the first plan in the United States for a publicly funded national education system, which, in principle, would allow for the realization of the innate potential of every individual. Revolutionaries of this period in Europe and America understood education to be foundational to the defense of democracy and human equality. Jefferson stated that the cost of public education would be not more than the thousandth part of what will be paid to kings, priests and nobles who will rise up among us if we leave the people in ignorance.

In this July 14, 2010 photo, a statue of Thomas Jefferson, right, stands in New York's City Hall Council Chamber. [AP Photo/Richard Drew]

The fight for public, secular education continued throughout the 19th century, with Horace Manns common schools movement for universal public education, understood to be the great equalizer of the conditions of men and the expansion of public schools following the Civil War. In the 20th century, central to the civil rights movement was the overthrow of the separate but equal doctrine and the fight for integrated, high quality public schools for all children.

But world capitalism has undergone a qualitative decline in the last 40 years. The capitalists defense of their rapacious profit interests, colossal levels of social inequality and decades of imperialist war are incompatible with democracy, and can only be maintained through authoritarian forms of rule. Today, both parties of the bourgeoisie in the US express their hatred for the principles of the Enlightenment and the struggle for social equality, with the Democrats, on the basis of racialist politics, leading the charge to tear down monuments to Jefferson and Lincoln and deny the democratic and progressive content of Americas bourgeois democratic revolutions.

Under these conditions, public education is no longer tenable for capitalism, which sees it as a drain on profits. Moreover, the bourgeoisie fears a working class that dares to know as Washington prepares for direct war against Russia and China and mounts further attacks on social programs. To the extent that public schools arent completely dismantled, they must be complelely subordinated to business and the military.

Since its inception, the fight for public educationas part of the fight for social equalityhas been intertwined with great revolutionary struggles. That legacy animates the struggle to defend and expand public education today. The social revolution on the agenda today must abolish the exploitation of man by man and establish socialism.
Sixteen people have been declared dead following the flash floods which hit Greece early last week. All of the deaths occurred in the central Thessaly region.

Greece, Bulgaria, Turkey and most recently Libya have all suffered extensive flooding, with Storm Daniel the largest Mediterranean tropical-like cyclone ever recorded. In Libya around 20,000 are feared dead.

Floodwaters and mud cover the town of Palamas, after the country's rainstorm record, in Karditsa, Thessaly region, central Greece, Sept. 8, 2023. Daniel formed as a low-pressure weather system and became blocked by a high-pressure system, dumping extreme amounts of rain on Greece and surrounding areas before inundating Libya. [AP Photo/Vaggelis Kousioras, File]

Much of Thessaly was turned into a giant lake including parts of Larissa and Volos, the regions largest cities. Given the large number of undocumented migrant workers employed as pickers in Thessalys agriculture industry, the real death toll is likely much higher.

Speaking live on SKAI TV last Friday, Yiannis Hatzis, a resident of the town of Palamas, said: In one of the houses near to mine a grandmother has drowned and is floating in the water. Dead livestock animals are floating past like they are boats and three to four houses have been demolished. There is no co-ordinated response [from the government]. Help should have been provided from the beginning.

Mayor of Palamas Giorgos Sakellariou was devastatingly frank in an interview on OPEN TV on September 6: They told us they were going to send boats. [These were] paddle boats that can only take one other person Im sure people will drown. I have requested a helicopter since yesterday. 35 people are trapped in one village. Those people will drown.

A week after the floods seven villages in Thessaly remained cut off, with significant areas of the local road network still under water. These included parts of the Athens-Thessaloniki motorway, which is set to remain shut for most of this week. The rail network connecting Athens and Thessaloniki was also suspended.

The floods have also affected the water supply system, leaving much of the region, including Volos (population 90,000 plus), with no access to drinking water. Power supply has been sketchy, with around 4,000 households across Thessaly receiving no electricity a week later.

Scientists have raised the alarm over the public health risks posed by stagnant flood waters and the vast numbers of dead livestock. There have been 48 confirmed cases of gastroenteritis reported in Thessaly, six of which have required hospitalisation. There is also a spike in respiratory tract infections with 65 new cases reported in Thessaly since Monday (41 of which were reported on Wednesday alone).

Stagnant waters are also a breeding ground for mosquitoes, raising the risk of diseases like West Nile Virus. There were 19 new cases of the disease reported last week, bringing the total for the year to 119. Of those, 93 were severe cases with 42 percent having occurred in Thessaly alone.

In a press conference, the conservative New Democracy governments Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias declared, I know the word unprecedented has been used many times and it may not make an impression. But here even this word does not convey the severity of the phenomenon. We are talking about unimaginable amounts of water.

The fact is the government knew very well how climate change was making such an event more likely. The Environment Ministrys own maps from 2018 already flagged most of the areas affected by the recent floods as high risk.

Three years ago, Thessaly was hit by floods during Storm Ianos. In response, the government allocated 400 million supposedly to strengthen the regions anti-flood defences. But it is clear that next to nothing has been done.

Speaking to Greek daily I Efimerida Ton Syntakton, Nikitas Milopoulos, a Professor of Hydrology at the University of Thessaly, described the works carried out as: fragmented, small, half-finished with a focus on some local flood tunnels which are ineffective. He noted of the misuse of the funds, of course anything to do with construction was labelled as an anti-flood project even the restoration of roads.

With a fifth of all arable land on the Thessaly plain under water, the economic devastation wrought counts in the billions of euros. Speaking on state broadcaster ERT, geologist and disaster management expert Efthymios Lekkas estimated that it would take at least five years for affected lands to be fertile again.

Regarded as the bread-basket of Greece, the Thessaly plain makes up 12 percent of the countrys cultivated lands and a quarter of its agricultural production. This amounts to over 10 billion, roughly 5 percent of Greeces GDP.

Roughly a quarter of Greeces wheat and barley is produced in Thessaly. According to initial estimates huge amounts of the recently harvested cereals were destroyed.

Around 35-45 percent of the regions livestock population have died in the flood, which will have a knock-on effect on the supply of meat and dairy products. Thessaly alone accounts for 71 percent of pork, 50 percent of cheese production and nearly a fifth of milk production in Greece.

The resulting shortages will send food prices higher and further stretch the budgets of struggling working families, who have already seen food prices soar by 26 percent in the last two years.

The government has announced an aid package worth around 2 billion for those affecteda drop in the ocean given the scale of destruction. General Secretary of the Panhellenic Union of Livestock Farmers Nikos Palaskas noted: To buy 1,000 animals you need 250,000 euros. To build a livestock farm you need 250,000 euros. The 5,000 to 6,000 euros aid is not enough even for one weeks worth of animal feed.

The response of the EU was equally dire. During a meeting in Strasbourg Tuesday between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen, the latter claimed that Greece had access to 2.25 billion worth of EU funds to address the crisis. What she failed to mention was that these are funds already earmarked for other projects that will now have to be rerouted. The only new money promised is a paltry 400 million under the EU Solidarity Fund and even this is subject to other member states agreeing to top up the pot.

In contrast, the government made sure to fund an increased police presence in Thessaly, under the pretext of preventing post-flood looting. Speaking to the MEGA TV channel on Tuesday, Greeces Citizen Protection Minister boasted: We have huge forces in the region, which have been strengthened with 100 additional people in the last three days. Everything possible is being done to deter looting.

The real reason for boosting the police presence is to clamp down on the immense anger breaking out in broad sections of the population regarding the governments handling of the crisis, leading to a series of protests. They follow widespread condemnation of the governments response to weeks of wildfires that led to dozens of deaths, including 18 migrants in the Dadia national forest.

Last Saturday, relatives of those affected by the floods in Thessaly held a protest rally in Syntagma Square in Athens. A huge banner they unfurled outside the Parliamant building condemned the government reading, You drowned the plain, our anger will drown you

On Sunday police in Larissa threw tear gas and attacked flood victims who were protesting Mitsotakiss visit. That these attacks were entirely premeditated was confirmed by a video released by the Press Project showing a police officer giving instructions beforehand: Were going to go inside the crowd! Theyll break up. Even if they dont retaliate, we will beat them up. Two days later, on Tuesday evening, a second attack took place when riot police launched tear gas at a peaceful march through the city centre of Larissa.

Following its resounding defeat in the general elections this June, the pseudo-left Syriza has sought to benefit from the Thessaly flood fallout. But Syriza was equally negligent in dealing with floods while in government. In November 2017 the floods that hit western Attica claimed 23 lives. It took no measures to strengthen the areas flood defences even though a blueprint had existed when it first came to power in 2015.
Join the online meeting of the Autoworkers Rank-and-File Committee Network Thursday to discuss a strategy to fight the UAW bureaucracys betrayal. Register here to attend.

Sign up for text message updates on the Detroit Three contract fight by texting AUTO to (866) 847-1086.

Follow Live Updates on the Big Three autoworkers struggle.

In a Facebook live event Wednesday evening, UAW President Shawn Fain said the Big Three have each rejected all the memberships most basic demands. Nevertheless, Fain ordered the vast majority of rank-and-file workers to stay at work and keep production going while only a select few plants go on strike.

This is an admission that the UAW bureaucracy is selling autoworkers out by keeping them working on behalf of the Big Three. All Fains claims to represent a break from past corruption have been exposed as lies.

Fain told workers that even without a contract in place by midnight Thursday, We will not strike all our facilities at once, and that there will be limited strikes only at a number of targeted locations. Fain made clear the UAW apparatus will attempt to prevent workers from taking independent action: You will strike only if called by national leadership to do so. If your local has not called, you are to keep working. This is extremely important.

Fain said the UAW would force workers to work even without any contract: You will be working under expired agreement, not an extension, he said. I know this is new for us. This plan only works if those who are not called out on strike keep working.

Fain absurdly claimed that keeping production going would give workers leverage. He called this a stand-up strike which he said is whole new way to strike. The term, Fain said, recalls the movement that built our great union, the Sit-Down Strikes of 1937.

But a strike that keeps production going is not a stand up strike, it is more like a bend-over strike.

Workers reacted with anger to Fains decision to divide plant against plant with comments on the Facebook stream. Comments included:

So why not strike everybody at the same time Im confused hit them where it hurts!!!! The Union wanna keep that money for whatever reason!

I dont want to work with no contract! Were Unitedone walks we all walk!!

What happened to standing together Shawn

All of us or nothing! We want to hurt them, then we all go all 3!!! We are just threatening. Thats buying them more time!!! All or nothing!!!

That really lets the company do what they want

Whats the point of this Strike then??

This is bs... who wants to work under no contract!

He sold us out!!! All of that big talk and he folded!

After delivering his long, rambling and pious remarks, Fain announced he would respond to Facebook comments. However, he paused for a long time as he struggled to find a comment that was not hostile to his plan to sell workers out.

After a long, stunned silence, Fain responded defensively to the outpouring of rank-and-file anger: Im seeing some people saying we should go all out at once, but as I said this isnt a decision made on a whim. It was a decision made by a lot of people that have looked at all the options.

In other words, the decision to sell out workers demands was a decision made by the corporations and the capitalist Democratic Party politicians Fain has been promoting. This includes pro-corporate puppets like Haley Stevens and Debbie Dingell, the auto industrys third and fourth favorite politicians, according to election donation data.

During his livestream, Fain announced that he would hold a rally the day after the contract expires with Democratic Party politicians, including Bernie Sanders, whose primary responsibility will be to tell workers to trust Fain and follow the UAW leaders. Workers should recall that, last December, the Biden administration and both the Democratic and Republican parties voted to illegalize a potential strike of 100,00 railroad workers, and forced them to accept a sellout contract they had already rejected.

Fains decision comes as the rank-and-file across industries indicate a growing desire to fight. Approximately 1,400 Blue Cross Blue Shield who are members of the UAW went on strike Wednesday morning in Michigan, just days after over 100 Dometic parts workers in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, initiated a strike.

In response to Fains announcement, many workers also expressed anger over the fact that a limited strike that leads to layoffs will leave workers ineligible for unemployment pay. In other words, the UAW bureaucracys strategy will impoverish workers, weaken the resolve of the rank and file and protect the UAW bureaucracys strike fund. As one worker said, Only striking plants get [strike pay].... Most of us will be laid off and get nothing!! States are gonna deny the unemployment claims ...

One additional legal issue is that by forcing workers to work without a contract, the UAW bureaucracy is putting workers at risk of wrongful termination or discipline, since federal law says workers have no recourse to take disciplinary matters to arbitration if wrongfully penalized.

In response to Fains speech, rank-and-file socialist candidate for UAW president Will Lehman issued the following statement:

By announcing Wednesday that the UAW will only call limited stand up strikes at a few plants even without a contract, UAW President Shawn Fain has admitted that the UAW bureaucracy is selling out the rank-and-file.

Fain is not calling on workers to stand up. He is demanding that we lie down and accept what the companies want. The isolation of the strike to only a handful of plants will ensure that it is as ineffective as possible. By keeping production going, it will boost both corporate profits and the UAW strike fund, which the bureaucrats have raided for decades to pay their own bloated salaries.

The decision against launching an all-out strike is not legitimate. It contradicts the clear will of the rank-and-file, which voted 97 percent to strike all three companies now. It was taken behind the backs of the rank-and-file membership, at the behest of the corporations and the Biden administration. It was announced by a president elected through massive voter suppression with the support of only 3 percent of the rank-and-file membership. Most workers never even received a ballot to vote last year.

We cannot afford to leave things in the hands of these traitors!

The UAW bureaucracy has made clear what side it is on. This means we, the rank-and-file, must organize ourselves. Hold emergency meetings in your factories and warehouses tonight and tomorrow to democratically discuss and plan how to countermand this betrayal and what collective action is needed. If there is no contract at midnight on Thursday night, we cannot be separated as Fain wants, we must all stand togetheron strike!
On the eve of a strike deadline at auto plants across the US and Canada, the WSWS Autoworker Newsletter spoke to Luis, a General Motors assembly worker at the Silao Complex in central Mexico.

He described his living conditions and several cases of corporate abuse overseen by the independent union installed last year at the plant with the support of both the governments and union bureaucracies in the US, Canada and Mexico.

Q. AMLO (Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador) said at the recent event that the auto industry treats its workers well, paying them the fair wages and benefits they deserve. How would you respond to him?

A. For him earning little is a fair wage. For me it is not a fair wage. We dont make enough.

My salary is 568 pesos [$33] a day. With 568 pesos you dont eat three meals a day as you should. For the house, I have a loan with Infonavit and they take 785 pesos a week from me. I have spoken to other coworkers, who pay 1,150 pesos a week. Most of the people I have talked to have other jobs. In my case, I do carpentry work in my free time. When I get a job, I do it. Other colleagues are mechanics, bricklayers, etc. I have asked others, Is what you earn here enough for you? And they answer, No. My wife works. I work in my spare time. And now that there are so many stoppages, well, even less.

GMs Silao complex in Mexico [Photo by General Motors / CC BY-NC 3.0

I recently bought a car, a Matiz Pontiac, and sometimes it breaks down and we cant even afford to repair it. Sometimes I have to try to fix it myself. What I tell my colleagues: what ironies of life! We assemble very expensive vehicles that we cannot afford. We workers make the company run.

There is a Mexican movie called Los albaniles [1976], very beautiful, and a bricklayer tells this very truth on May 3, the Day of the Holy Cross of the bricklayers. He is drinking and shouts, I build houses and they are not mine! And the same goes for us. These are the ironies of life. Emiliano Zapata [figure of the Mexican Revolution] said it here in Mexico, The land belongs to those who work it. It is something similar; unfortunately things are not like that, neither here in Mexico nor in the rest of the world.

Q. US autoworkers said at a meeting Sunday that they get worked to death due to long hours and unsafe conditions. Does this resonate with you?

A. We work 12 hours a day for four days, which adds up to 48 hours. In other words, we work the normal hours according to the law. But, yes, as they say, the work is very demanding.

I work where we start to assemble the unit, we put on the exhaust, the disks where the tire goes, the gas tank, the tires, the front axle, the canister and several other things.

It is 12 hours of standing upright; we practically don't sit down. Im already getting varicose veins in my feet from standing all day. When I get home, my feet hurt a lot. I get off the bus, and my feet practically dont want to respond. Besides, you get sick in this kind of work. Over 12 hours, they dont want to allow us to go to the bathroom.

A co-worker was sent from the upholstery area because he got on bad terms with the supervisor, who told him, Help me out and dont go to the bathroom. Oh boy, tell him not to go to the bathroom all the time he is here! They should be a little ethical, a little humane. They are workers but because they are behind a computer, they want to have authority over you and that is not right. We all have the need to go to the bathroom and, after long working days, this is going to affect us in the future.

It will be a year since the earthquake in Mexico [a 7.7 magnitude quake on September 19, 2022], which was felt here in Guanajuato. They did not follow the protocol of taking people out, but they did take out the office workers and those of the SINTTIA union. The alarm sounded for them, but not for the workers. It began to shake and, as they were moving, some of them could feel it but most of them could not. They realized through social media that there was an earthquake. It was wrong not to get the workers out. Thank God nothing major happened. But why do drills, if when the time comes for the real thing, the company doesnt care about the workers?

In the pandemic, my wife was also working there at General Motors. She happened to get [COVID-19] in September 2020. When I was asked [at the entrance] if I lived with a person who had COVID, I answered yes. My wife was in bed on oxygen, here in my house. I had the copy of the doctors note with me because I took her to an outside doctor. I was told to go to the medical service, so I went, and they have a very bad way of treating you there. They chuckle derisively.

I told the doctor that my obligation was to tell them, according to protocol, that I am living with a person who has COVID. He threw the note back at me and said, It is not valid because it is not from the public health system. I told him, I am not here to ask if it is valid or not, my obligation is to tell you to see what actions are taken. He responded, No, I cant send you to rest. Go to work. I thought he was going to tell me to go get tested to see if I have COVID or not, but he sent me to work, whether I could infect my coworkers or not. I asked him about my wife, and he told me that she had to go to the public healthcare system, otherwise she would get fired. But how was she supposed to go if she is in bed with oxygen?

Q. Has there been any change since the new independent union SINTTIA arrived?

A. I have not seen any change. Nor can I say that we are worse off. Many coworkers comment that we are worse off, but they are referring to the fact that they do not make as many loans and that the [previous gangster-ridden union] CTM did give us some things that SINTTIA is now starting to give out, such as backpacks with school supplies.

I see the same thing, that the union is in favor of the company, it does nothing for the worker. I disaffiliated because I have had two or three problems with management, and when I approached the union, they never took my side.

The first one was that, for the night shift, the bus usually picks me up at 4:40 p.m. but it didn't arrive until 5 p.m. We got to the plant at about 5:50 p.m. When I arrived, the supervisor stopped me on the way and asked me, What happened, Luis? I told her that my bus was late, and she didnt believe me, asking me what route it was and what city I was coming from. I explained. When I arrived, my team manager, who never wants to do anything, was in my place because the line was already getting started. He says to me in a rude tone, What happened, Luis? I told him that I had already talked it over with the group leader. Ah, so shes going to be the one sending you to the bathroom. And he didnt let me go to the bathroom in the whole shift. I called the union. They told me very formally that they were going to talk to him. I was waiting for them to come and sanction him, but they never showed up.

Another problem was that I missed a day because of the insecurity here in the city. [There were shootings and deadly attacks on civilians, including the burning of trucks with factory workers, allegedly by drug cartels.] It got really ugly that time, and I was absent so they wanted me to sign a correction notice for an unexcused absence. I told them that I had missed work because of the insecurity, that my life and safety came first. And the union sided with the company. They made me sign the correction notice.

A colleague who came from the chassis area told me that he had not joined the union when the change was made to SINTTIA because it does nothing for you. He told me, In the team where I was in chassis, the team leader hit a worker and the union guys noticed and didnt do anything. He hit him and, in fact, the guy didnt even put his hands up in defense for fear of losing his job. And the manager is there as if nothing had happened.

Besides, the SINTTIA union is composed of cronies. In the case of [general secretary] Alejandra Morales, she has her boyfriend as her right-hand man, at level 5 pay. If we earn 568 pesos at the top, they make about 700 pesos and dont do anything for anyone. They use the dues to pay for the gas in their cars. That union is a disaster.

They have an office that used to belong to the CTM. They just go there and never show up at the shop floor. They receive paperwork for loans and scholarships for children who are studying. Just office paperwork. They are not on the production lines, and I believe they should also be on the line.

Q. Analysts in Mexico say that if there is a US auto strike, in a matter of four weeks auto parts plants in Coahuila, Guanajuato and across Mexico would shut down. In 2019, the Silao complex stopped just 16 days after the start of the GM strike in the US. The auto industry is firmly linked, and when there is a fight in one country it is immediately an international struggle. But for a long time, the American trade union apparatus and the companies have presented you as enemies, that if workers ask for higher wages the companies will go to other countries like Mexico. What do you think?

A. They say the same thing to us in Mexico, that if we want a raise, companies will go to Central American countries, where labor is still much cheaper than here. But in reality, we are not what they say. We are not the enemy.

A strike would affect us, but it would be for something positive for all of ushere in Mexico. Let it be at the international level. At the end of the day, we workers are the ones who move the whole country and the world because we all work in symbiosis. This world is in symbiosis. We need them, and they need us. And if we dont put a stop to so many injustices and low wages, the companies will maintain all these problems.

There has to be this [struggle] to improve workers economic conditions and interests. It is good that we unite because, seeing that the union does nothing, we as workers must organize ourselves and raise our voices to fix this situation.
The Socialist Equality Party (Australia) urges workers and young people to attend a public meeting to discuss our campaign for an active boycott of the October 14 Voice referendum.

The meeting will be held at 2 p.m. (AEDT) on Sunday, October 1, in Community Room 2, Bryan Brown Theatre, 80 Rickard St, Bankstown, Sydney. The meeting will also be livestreamed. Register now to attend in person or online!

The Australian Labor Party, headed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, has launched the referendum to entrench an indigenous advisory body, labelled the Voice, into the countrys anti-democratic 1901 Constitution.

The SEP urges workers to reject both the Yes and No cases presented by the political establishment and calls for an active boycott campaign opposing the whole referendum. The Voice referendum has nothing to do with the interests of workers and youth. It is a fraud, providing no real choice. Instead, the official campaign is a conflict between different sections of the ruling class.

There are merely tactical differences between the Yes and No advocates of the Voice. Both are concerned with strengthening the state apparatus, which will be used against the working classAboriginal and non-Aboriginal. This is the same state apparatus that perpetrated the crimes against the Aboriginal people.

The Voice would do nothing to alleviate the social crisis confronting indigenous workers and young people, and despite the claims of the Yes camp, is not designed to do so. It will join with the rest of parliament and the political establishment in imposing the austerity program of the ruling class against all sections of the working class, regardless of race.

The basic division in society is class, not race, and the only means of fighting against the dire poverty and oppression of the Aboriginal working class is through the mobilisation of all workers, irrespective of race.

Labor is promoting the Voice referendum when it is aligning Australia ever more closely with US plans for war against China. To pay for such a war, the government is carrying out a deepening onslaught on the living standards of the working class during one of the most severe cost-of-living crises in decades.

The Voice policy is a central plank of this reactionary agenda. The government cannot cajole and compel the Asian and Pacific Island nations to support such a war without camouflaging the filthy history of genocide the British and Australian capitalist class imposed on Aborigines.

Another purpose of the Voice is to divide workers along racial lines while elevating a privileged Aboriginal elite into the corridors of capitalist power. It is intended to portray a fake supra-class national unity to revamp and bolster the capitalist state apparatus as it seeks to subordinate the working class to its war agenda.

At the same time, the SEP rejects entirely the official no campaign, headed by Liberal-National leader Peter Dutton. It is based on thinly veiled racist dog-whistling and corresponds with the activities of far-right forces that are openly vilifying Aboriginal people.

Likewise, the so-called progressive No campaign headed by Senator Lidia Thorpe and others provides no answer.

The SEP puts forward an independent perspective for workers.

The dire plight of most indigenous people is a product of capitalism, and the primary division in society is class, not race. The SEP insists that the struggle to end the oppression of Aboriginal people, and the struggle for the social rights of the working class, are one and the same.

We call on workers and youth to register their opposition by casting informal ballots. Under conditions of compulsory voting, it is a crime to urge a boycott of the vote itself.

But the critical issue is the development of an independent political movement of the working class, directed against the entire political establishment, its program of war and austerity, and the capitalist system itself.

This means the fight for socialism, placing societys resources under public ownership and democratic workers control, thereby guaranteeing the right of all to free education, health care and all the fundamental necessities of modern life.

At the meeting, leading members of the SEP will outline the active boycott campaign, placing it within the global context and presenting our socialist and internationalist program. Ample time will be provided for questions and discussion. Register now to attend in person or online!

Contact the SEP:

Phone: (02) 8218 3222

Email: sep@sep.org.au

Facebook: SocialistEqualityPartyAustralia

Twitter: @SEP_Australia

Instagram: socialistequalityparty_au

TikTok: @sep_australia



Note: Under conditions of compulsory voting, which makes it a crime to urge a boycott of the vote itself, the SEP calls on workers and youth to register their opposition by casting informal ballots and join our active boycott campaign in the lead-up to October 14, that goes well beyond the individual act of voting.

Authorised by Cheryl Crisp for the Socialist Equality Party, Suite 906, 185 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000
Governor of Sevastopol Mikhail Razvozhaev speaks on a mobile phone as smoke and flames rise from a burning Sevastopol shipyard in Crimea. (Sevastopol Governor Mikhail Razvozhaev telegram channel via AP) [AP Photo]

Ukraine carried out the largest strike on the Russian port of Sevastopol on the Russian-claimed Crimean Peninsula since the start of the war Wednesday, severely damaging a warship and submarine in a combined strike using long-range missiles and remotely-piloted suicide boats.

Citing an unnamed Ukrainian official, Sky News reported that the strike used Storm Shadow long-range missiles provided by the UK. It was Storm Shadow, Sky News quoted one of its sources as saying. Earlier this year, the UK and France provided Ukraine with Storm Shadow missiles, with a range of over 150 miles.

Coming after pledges early in the war by the US and its NATO allies that their weapons would not be used to strike Russian territory, the latest attack demonstrates the extent to which the NATO powers are abandoning many of their prior limitations on their involvement in the war.

Unlike previous strikes on military installations on Crimea, Ukrainian officials openly admitted their responsibility and boasted about the damage that had been inflicted.

On the morning of Sept. 13 the Ukrainian armed forces conducted successful strikes on naval assets and port infrastructure of the occupiers at the docks of temporarily occupied Sevastopol, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry said on Telegram.

Lieutenant General Mykola Oleschuk, the head of the Ukrainian Air Force, posted an image of a burning Russian warship on Telegram, adding the caption And while the occupiers are storming and they are still recovering from the [explosions] in Sevastopol, thank you to the pilots of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine for their excellent combat work!

We confirm a large landing vessel and submarine were hit, Andriy Yusov, a Ukrainian military intelligence official, told Reuters.

In a subsequent statement to Ukrainian national television, Yusov added, Those are significant damages. We can now say that with a high probability they are not subject to restoration.

Mikhail Razvozhaev, the governor of Sevastopol, wrote on Telegram that 24 people were injured in the strike. The destroyed vessels had been identified by military analysts as a Project 636.3 diesel submarine and a Project 775 Ropucha-class large landing ship. Both ships were in dry dock undergoing repairs at the time. It was the first known successful attack on a Russian submarine of the war so far.

Last year, Ukraine destroyed the Moskva, the flagship of Russias Black Sea Fleet.

In recent months, Ukrainian forces have regularly carried out attacks hundreds of miles behind Russian lines, including multiple attacks on the Russian capital city of Moscow.

The Financial Times quoted Ukrainian Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraines military intelligence, boasting about the consistent strikes inside Russia. It has a sobering effect, he said. We see some slight movespanic movesfor example, Russian insurance companies providing insurance against civilian attacks.

He continued, As a result, much more money is being traded between insurance companies and airlines. These problems will mount up and affect peoplewe hope there will be kitchen conversations about that.

In May, two drones exploded over the official residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin, which the Kremlin called an assassination attempt.

At the time, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was asked whether the US would disavow attempted assassinations of Russian officials, Blinken refused to do so, declaring, These are decisions for Ukraine to make about how its going to defend itself, how its going to get its territory back, how its going to restore its territorial integrity and its sovereignty.

That same month, the Ukrainian military carried out a suicide drone attack on the Kerch Bridge linking Crimea to the Russian mainland.

In July of this year, Ukrainian suicide drones attacked Moscows central business district, damaging the facades of two office buildings.

In February, US Under Secretary of State Victoria Nuland gave a public green light for Ukrainian attacks on Crimea. Those are legitimate targets, Nuland said, referring to Ukrainian strikes on Crimea. Ukraine is hitting them. We are supporting that. Last year, the US gave private authorization for strikes inside Russian territory, according to The Times of London.

Earlier this week, Reuters reported that the United States is preparing to approve the sending of long-range ATACMS missiles, capable of striking hundreds of miles behind Russian lines and putting the capital city at risk of attack.

These moves follow what was widely seen as an embarrassing setback for the United States at the G20 Summit in India, which failed to adopt language demanded by the US and its allies condemning Russia for the Ukraine war.

This took place in the context of the failure of Ukraines Spring offensive which, despite the loss of tens of thousands of lives, has made no significant progress in recapturing Russian-held territory.

Under conditions in which the extent of Ukraines military debacle is becoming clear, the US and its NATO allies are increasingly removing whatever restrictions on Kievs military actions remain and more and more openly encouraging it to use long-range Western weapons to strike inside Russia.
TIANJIN, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The total number of China's civil helicopters is expected to reach 1,449 by 2027 and hit 2,000 by 2032, according to a report released by the country's leading aircraft maker on Thursday.

Cao He, director of the civil aircraft engineering research center under the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), said 3,186 general aviation aircraft were in operation in China by the end of 2022, including 1,037 civil helicopters. Cao made the remarks at the 6th China Helicopter Exposition held in north China's Tianjin Municipality.

In 2022, various general aviation aircraft in China accumulated 1.22 million flight hours, with civil helicopters contributing 200,000 hours.

The report also anticipates that China's cumulative flight hours of civil helicopters will continue to increase in the next ten years. 
More than 1,100 Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) of Michigan workers, members of the United Auto Workers (UAW) went on strike on Wednesday night following the expiration of their contract.

Striking Blue Cross/Blue Shield workers in downtown Detroit [WSWS]

The office workers, who staff call centers, process insurance claims and bills and work in maintenance, are demanding an end to the hated tiered wage system, significant wage and benefit increases, improved working conditions and restoration of jobs replaced by outsourcing to contractors.

The workers joined picket lines at BCBS offices in downtown Detroit, Lansing and Grand Rapids, Michigan early Wednesday chanting No contract, no work. The strike, which began officially at 12:01 a.m., was authorized by the workers in August with a 95 percent vote of the UAW members in Local 1781, Local 2500, Local 2145 and Local 2256.

The contracting out of work to offshore sources is a major issue the workers face, with their numbers vastly reduced over recent decades. As one worker on the picket line in Detroit explained, Statewide in 1993, I think we had over 3,000 members and now were down to just over 1,400. Were down at least half if not more.

Then the worker explained that workloads have increased, They keep raising our responsibilities; more and more that we have to handle, but they dont want to compensate us for it. The compensation hasnt gone up in over a decade. Were taking on all that extra work from the people that have left.

Another major issue is the multitiered pay system which requires new employees to work for BCBS for a staggering 22 years before reaching wage parity with coworkers. A striking worker discussed with our reporter what it is like to work as a BCBS customer service rep for $18.55 per hour.

When asked what it takes to live on this wage, the worker said, Having a second job is helpful, trying not to spend money on outside things and trying not to drive as much. I mean, its just tough. There are ways around it, but its not easy.

He then explained that the problems facing other sections of the population are very similar, Theres a lot of other industries too like teachers and healthcare workers. Then there are elderly people on their own and everything theyre going through with Social Security and health insurance for them and whats available.  I think the more you read about it or hear about other peoples perspectives, the more it just kind of resonates.

The strike by BCBS of Michigan workers is part of a growing wave of struggles by workers across all industries against more than four decades of attacks on their living standards, working conditions and basic rights.

The fact is that the UAW bureaucracy, just like it has done throughout the auto industry, pushed successive concession contracts on workers at BCBS of Michigan and agreed to the tiered wage system while claiming that this was the only way to keep their jobs.

The UAW members at BCBS Michigan have walked out less than 48 hours before the expiration of the contract for 150,000 autoworkers at GM, Ford and Stellantis. Autoworkers are facing a dual struggle against the intransigence of the auto manufacturers and the UAW bureaucracy, which are jointly working to block a unified strike from breaking out.

In a sure signal that the UAW bureaucracy is preparing a massive sellout, UAW President Shawn Fain announced Wednesday that the union would limit any work stoppage to only a few plants and keep the vast majority of workers on the job under expired contracts.

The demands of autoworkers are the same as those of the BCBS workers: the restoration of concessions made by the UAW in past contracts and major gains in wages and benefits.

The role of the UAW apparatus in blocking the unified struggle of workers against the employers is on display at BCBS, where the union is keeping other members who work for Blue Care Network, the health maintenance organization (HMO) within BCBS, on the job while the strike is underway. This is being defended by the UAW apparatus on the grounds that the contract for Blue Care Network workers will not expire until December 15.

Sitting on the board of directors along side top executives from the auto companies and other major corporations are top union officials, including International UAW official Renee Turner-Bailey, retired International officers Susanne Mitchell, Sarah Doyle and Gerald Kariem; William Black of the Michigan Teamsters, Patrick Devlin of the Michigan Building Trades Council and Paula Herbart of the Michigan Education Association. Also on the board is Michigan AFL-CIO President Ronald Bieber, whose father, former UAW President Owen Bieber oversaw the sellout of the 1987 strike by UAW members at Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Commenting on the fact that UAW members were striking against a corporate management consisting of top union officials, a veteran worker said, Thats a huge conflict of interest, isnt it? Were at the bottom of that pile. Thats exactly why were out here to stop stuff like that.

Addressing herself to rank-and-file autoworkers, she said, Lets fight for this. We have to stand up and fight for what we deserve. Its time.

One outcome of the decades of betrayals by the UAW has been an enormous increase in the profitability of the corporations and the enrichment of the top executives who run them. In the case of BCBS of Michigan, part of an ostensibly not-for-profit 501(c)(4) public welfare organization, CEO Daniel Loepp was paid a total of $16.9 million in cash compensation in 2022.

CEO Loepp was paid this enormous sum, $13.8 million of which was a bonus and $1.3 million was his base salary, even though the organization had a net loss of $777 million in 2022. According to BCBS spokesman Andy Hetzel, Loepp was entitled to massive payout because he led the company through three years of the pandemic in an uneasy economy, while the healthcare ecosystem was relying on us more than ever.

Striking Blue Cross/Blue Shield Michigan workers [WSWS]

Meanwhile, the income and living standards of BCBS workers have steadily fallen. As one striker said, The economy has changed. We need an upgrade in our pay and bonuses. We just need a lift because the economy has gotten bad. We are just as important as anybody who is higher up or a CEO. We have gotten raises, but the raises are not substantial enough to keep us ahead of what America has been going through.

The last strike by BCBS of Michigan workers was in 1993, and there was also an 83-day walkout in 1987. In 2009, in line with the massive concessions at the Big Three, the UAW accepted a two-tier system, eliminated COLA and gave up other concessions. Union officials claim the wage gap has been closed but second-tier workers have no pensions (just 401k) or retiree healthcare benefits, and substandard paid sick time benefits.

If this struggle is not to be betrayed, Blue Cross workers must take the conduct of the fight in their own hands by forming a rank-and-file committee, demanding complete oversight of all negotiations, an increase in strike pay to $750 and an all-out strike by autoworkers.
The latest iteration of the mRNA COVID vaccine boosters from Pfizer and Moderna, designed to target the Omicron XBB.1.5 subvariant which was dominant throughout much of the world this past spring, will be available soon at major pharmacies and health centers after being greenlighted by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) earlier this week.

This will be the third COVID booster jab offered to Americans considered low-risk (the fifth for high-risk groups since 2021) and the first time since the World Health Organization (WHO) and Biden administration unscientifically ended the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) declarations last May. One of the factors motivating this decision was to shift the provision of the vaccines to the private market, with companies now able to charge marked-up prices.

Criminally, the list price of the vaccines, which were developed through federal programs funded by taxpayers, is now $110 to $130 per dose. While in theory most people with private and public health insurance should have these costs covered, there will undoubtedly be bureaucratic loopholes that make this difficult for millions, forcing many to pay out-of-pocket. For those without insurance, they will have to navigate community health centers, while provision through the Biden administrations Bridge Access Program remains unclear.

On Tuesday, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted nearly unanimously (13-1) to recommend the jabs for all Americans six months of age or older. CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen signed off on these recommendations hours after the vote. Novavaxs protein-based COVID vaccine directed at XBB.1.5 awaits regulatory approval in the next few weeks but should receive similar CDC recommendations for eligibility.

In a statement released by the FDAs Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Dr. Peter Marks said:

Vaccination remains critical to public health and continued protection against serious consequences of COVID-19, including hospitalization and death. The public can be assured that these updated vaccines have met the agencys rigorous scientific standard for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality. We very much encourage those who are eligible to consider getting vaccinated.

These reformulated mRNA, or protein-based vaccines, do not require new clinical trials as their safety has been previously determined. Indeed, in the almost three years they have been employed, they have proven their safety profiles with very rare cases of anaphylaxis or deaths associated with the vaccines.

According to the CDCs Reported Adverse Events, with hundreds of millions of COVID vaccines administered, anaphylaxis occurred in about five cases per 1 million vaccine doses given. Multiple studies have yet to demonstrate any unusual patterns in cause of death after vaccination [See Link 1, Link 2, Link 3, and Link 4]. In fact, for those who have been vaccinated for COVID-19, all-cause mortality was lower than the expected all-cause mortality rates.

As for vaccines causing inflammation of the heart, known as myocarditis, one study found there were potentially 320 such cases out of nearly 7 million vaccine doses among persons 5-17 years old within 98 days of vaccination.

Regarding adolescent males, although the rates of myocarditis caused by the mRNA vaccines are higher than background, they are still very rare events, amounting to only 22.4 excess cases per million with Pfizer and 31.2 excess cases per million with Moderna. Most of these were reported to be transient in nature and were cleared by their physicians for all physical activity. However, the most recent data collected on the last bivalent booster among more than 110,000 vaccine doses given to those 12-17 years old found that there were zero case of myocarditis.

Data obtained in the laboratory setting also indicate that the new booster shots produce a significant immune boost protecting against the latest Omicron subvariants that are circulating, including the highly-mutated and divergent BA.2.86 (Pirola) lineage. Meanwhile, real world data with the previous iteration of the COVID boosters found that they provide better protection against hospitalization than the original COVID booster based on the wild-type strain of the coronavirus. The implication is that these new iterations will improve a persons immune response against the latest viral strains.

The near universal recommendations by the ACIP came as some surprise by many who expected the COVID boosters might be limited to high-risk populations in the face of high levels of population immunity from previous infections and vaccinations. This more restrictive approach is being implemented in the UK, some EU countries, China and Mexico, where they will be prioritized to the elderly and most vulnerable, including immunocompromised individuals, nursing home populations and those with medical comorbidities. Germany, for instance, is not running any winter campaign efforts though they are recommending annual boosters for at-risk groups.

The basis for the universal recommendations came from the CDCs own analysis that if provided to the entire population then 400,000 hospitalizations and more than 40,000 deaths could be averted over the next two years. These facts raise inconvenient truths about the nature of the pandemic and the health agencys cavalier and negligent response to the latest ongoing surge of infections and hospitalizations across the US.

Important information gleaned from the presentation suggests that the CDC expected the reformulated vaccines to offer 65 percent vaccine efficacy against symptomatic infection. As usual, immunity should reach its highest point after one month and then begin to rapidly wane over the intervening four to six months. This would place most people at risk of infection or hospitalization after the winter surge has receded, presuming they are vaccinated in the weeks ahead.

Nonetheless, the CDC anticipates that weekly hospitalizations will climb over the winter and reach last years range of admissions. They acknowledged that persons from six months of age to 49 years without underlying medical conditions were still being admitted to the ICU or dying with COVID-19 in the period from July 2022 to June 2023.

COVID-associated deaths in the US during the first seven months of 2023 were 451 for ages 20 to 44; 2,821 for those 45 to 64 years old; and 24,776 for those over 65. Additionally, 80 infants, children and young adults died from COVID-19 during this period. In total, more than 28,000 have died from COVID in the first half of 2023, which is considered an undercount as they are based on how these deaths are coded.

Upending all the lies that COVID-19 is like the flu and does not impact children, in the first seven months of 2023 the flu only killed 28 people in the US between the ages of one and 19, while during the same period 54 died of COVID in the same age range. While data for flu deaths under 12 months of age was not provided, 26 COVID deaths officially took place among those less than one year old.

When the CDC reviewed risks based on the number of underlying medical conditions and the increased risk of admission to the ICU, mechanical ventilation and death, the hazard ratio jumped dramatically for one condition and then again for those with more than one condition, underscoring the considerable risk most people with poor health face in the US and the rest of the world face when infected with COVID-19.

In contrast to the Biden administrations propaganda that the pandemic is over, in summarizing their findings the CDC refers to the current surge as a pandemic and notes that the absolute number of hospitalizations and deaths is still high. They found that the most vulnerableinfants and older adultshave the highest COVID-19-associated hospitalization rates, and they anticipate that this winter COVID-19 will continue to impact healthcare systems.

These findings are vital for the population, and one must ask why these have not been provided in such a cogent manner? Additionally, why are these vaccines just being offered when a surge has been underway for the last three months? Why havent public health measures been implemented to protect people from the ravages of the virus with the impact it causes on every organ system in their body, increasing ones risk of diabetes, heart disease and stroke which are not being counted in these metrics?

Weekly hospitalizations for COVID have risen three-fold since late June and as of the week ending September 2, 2023, stand at 18,871. Weekly deaths, a lagging indicator, have also been inching higher at 672 as of August 12, 2023, which are up 40 percent from early July. The fact that these unreliable data are a month old means that using these metrics will have little impact in protecting the population should the virus evolve into a more virulent form.

Currently, the latest Biobot Analytics data on SARS-CoV-2 wastewater levels updated on September 11, 2023, indicate that the current national surge continues, corresponding to approximately 720,000 COVID infections each day.

Recent experience with the lackluster uptake of the bivalent COVID boosters indicates that many may choose to forgo this life-saving preventative measure. This is not an individual failure but a public health disaster, the product of a bipartisan propaganda campaign of the capitalist ruling elites designed to condition people to ignore the threats posed by SARS-CoV-2.

Workers should take every measure to acquire these treatments and protect themselves and their families, even though the vaccines alone do not guarantee against COVID-19 infection or Long COVID. The vaccine-only strategy of the Biden administration is fundamentally a flawed public health approach and dangerous. Still, under the present circumstances, it is vital to protect ones health and well-being as much as possible.

The CDCs universal recommendation for the new booster shots is correct but does not stem from a shift in their perspective or policy to inure the population to treat COVID like another seasonal virus.

A global elimination strategy, based on international cooperation and initiative in the deployment of all available public health measures, remains the only real solution to the pandemic. Such a strategy to protect billions of people all over the planet can only be implemented through the socialist reorganization of the global economy, which would also enable mankind to addres all the urgent crises borne out of the chaos of capitalist production.
On Friday, the Board of Governors of West Virginia University (WVU) is set to vote on sweeping cuts that will eliminate hundreds of jobs and disrupt the educational goals of countless students. The entire World Languages Department and several majors in arts and culture, as well as the PhD program in mathematics, the only one in the state of West Virginia, are set to be destroyed. The pretext for the cuts is a budget deficit of $45 million. But while these programs are under attack, the state government is investing the exact same amount$45 millionin a new cybersecurity center at Marshall University.

Indeed, it was during the same session of lawmakers that rejected funding for WVU to stop the cuts that the same amount of money was granted to fund the cybersecurity project just 20 miles away. That project directly enhances the ability of the US to effectively wage war.

These decisions are more than symbolic. They indicate that the ruling class has a strategy to divert all funding towards wars that are intended to further enrich itself, at the expense of the democratic and social rights of the working class to education and culture.

Students and faculty protesting against the cuts at West Virginia University, September 6, 2023

Coming after decades of austerity, the cuts at WVU, unless opposed by the working class and students, will set a new benchmark for the assault on culture and public education across the country and internationally.

There is a profound sense among workers and students that their most basic cultural, social and democratic rights are at stake. Speaking to the WSWS, WVU senior Tim called the cuts a blatant bourgeois attack on the working class. He went on to explain that they do not care about the people of West Virginia, they want to make it so that the people of West Virginia stop thinking and keep working.

When asked about the broader picture, he said, The consulting company they used to decide on what they were going to cut is RPK group  its [involved in working out cuts at] schools around the country. I know they are working on setting up some cuts at a school in Taiwan even. So its going to be a bigger problem than just a West Virginia University problem.

Significantly, many students in the course of their protests have recalled the historic struggles of the working class in West Virginia. But the lessons of this history must be learned.

The historic class battle of the West Virginia coal miners at Blair Mountain in 1921 underscores the tremendous courage and militancy of the working class but also the ruthlessness and brutality of the ruling class. Above all, this history shows that militancy alone is not enough. In order to confront the ruling class and the entire capitalist system, workers and youth need a political program, perspective and strategy.

This is what, so far, is sorely lacking in the protests.

West Virginia University students have organized themselves in the West Virginia University Student Union (WVUSU), while many faculty are members of the West Virginia Campus Workers (WVCW). The campus workers union is open to anyone who receives a paycheck from a West Virginia college or university, including student workers, undergraduate workers, graduate workers, part-time workers, hourly workers, tenured and untenured workers, staff and faculty. Both the student union and the workers union were recently affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).

Since the announcement of the program cuts and layoffs, the AFT academics website has become more active, publishing several articles, including a letter by AFT President Randi Weingarten addressed to the WVU Board of Governors. Weingartens letter calls for the Board of Governors and the university administration to advocate for increased state support to make up for the shortfall in the short term and to adequately fund the university going forward.

The entire perspective advocated by the AFT amounts to directing appeals to the Democrats and Republicans and the university administration. This is a strategy for defeat.

The sharpest warning must be issued to the students and workers who want to fight against the cuts. The role of the AFT bureaucracy is treacherous. It has become involved in the West Virginia University protests, not because it seeks to organize opposition but because it seeks to isolate and sabotage it.

Claims to the effect that the student protests are not political must be rejected. The first task of students and faculty who seek to oppose these cuts is to gain a clear political understanding of what lies behind them, who their class enemies are and who their class allies are. This means they must draw the lessons of the role of the AFT in the sellout of the 2018 West Virginia teachers strikes as well as its support for the imperialist war in Ukraine.

The AFT in the 2018 West Virginia teachers strikes and the attack on public education

The AFT has 1.7 million members, the majority of whom are pre-K through 12th grade teachers. Like other unions, it is controlled by a well paid bureaucratic apparatus whose class interests are in opposition to those of its rank-and-file members and completely hostile to the independent mobilization of the working class. Randi Weingarten, the president of the AFT, is a millionaire, who, as of 2020, receives an annual salary of well over half a million dollars.

It is the social interests of this highly paid bureaucracy, not those of the rank and file, that have determined the AFTs policies for many years. For decades, the AFT bureaucracy has been instrumental in the assault of the ruling class on public education. In every major battle by educators, the AFT has channeled working class militancy into support for Democratic Party politicians and rammed through contracts that further eroded the living standards of the rank and file.

Workers in West Virginia have made especially bitter experiences with the AFT. In 2018, 33,000 West Virginia teachers waged a courageous nine-day battle, initiating a nationwide wave of struggles by educators against attacks on public education.

The strike did not begin at the initiative of the leadership of the AFT or the National Education Association (NEA) and their West Virginia affiliates. Rather, it was launched at the initiative of rank-and-file members who met in classrooms and coordinated on social media. The AFT and NEA bureaucrats called for strike action only when it became impossible to contain the teachers anger. Having been forced to call a strike, they sought to limit it first to two days and then added a two-day extension.

But teachers all over the state refused to return to work and defied the back-to-work mandates of the union officials and Governor Jim Justice. They maintained their picket lines.

A teacher from the impoverished mining region of Boone County told the WSWS:

The union leaders thought they put a lid on this strike. Last night, the union leaders were talking to us like fifth grade kids. They said we were dividing people by not listening to them and ending the strike. We said, No, the people are united down here. Its you, up on the stage, that we are divided with.

The response of the NEA and AFT locals was to push through a contract that was a repackaged version of an offer the teachers had previously rejected, with no time for the teachers to examine it or hold a vote on a return to work.

The trade union bureaucracies and the pseudo-left Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), as well as the DSAs unofficial publication Jacobin magazine, wasted no time declaring the new contract a victory for the teachers. But the reality was very different.

The contract included an insulting one-time 5 percent raise and did not address the main concern of the teachers, the skyrocketing cost of their healthcare through the Public Employee Insurance Agency. What the teachers gained in wages was extracted by the state government from the community as a whole. Funding for healthcare clinics was cut, public employee jobs were eliminated and a free college tuition program was canceled.

At the conclusion of the strike, the WSWS published a statement titled Lessons of the West Virginia Teachers Strike, which drew from the experience of the teachers struggle the central dynamic of the new upsurge of working class strugglethat it would take the form of a rebellion of rank-and-file workers against the pro-corporate trade union bureaucracies.

Since then, the AFT has been centrally responsible for sabotaging educators struggles against the unsafe reopening of schools during the COVID-19 pandemic and has sold out several other strikes by educators and academic workers, including, most recently, the graduate student strike at the University of Michigan.

The AFTs support for imperialist war and the Democratic Party

The attacks on public education and the living standards of the working class cannot be separated from the wars pursued by imperialism abroad. The Biden administration has requested a $1 trillion military budget for fiscal year 2024, a budget designed to prepare for a world war. Moreover, it has sent tens of billions of dollars in weapons and military supplies to Ukraine in order to extend and escalate the war against Russia, after the US and NATO deliberately provoked the invasion of Ukraine by the oligarchic Putin regime. It did so by exploiting the Stalinist dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 to extend NATO eastward to Russias borders and then organizing the 2014 overthrow of an elected pro-Russian government in Ukraine by far-right forces, installing a virulently anti-Russian government in Kiev.

Imperialist war abroad always means class war at home. As trillions of dollars are funneled into the military, the living standards of workers are decimated, along with their social and democratic rights. At the same time, the pursuit of war makes it imperative for the ruling class to suppress the growing resistance of the working class. The AFT bureaucracy plays a central role in propping up both aspects of this imperialist policy, which is spearheaded by the Democratic Party.

On June 23, the AFT officially announced its endorsement of Joe Biden for reelection. President Randi Weingarten posted a video of support on twitter, stating:

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris really care about people. They get the importance of workers having a voice and students having real opportunity. They are unabashedly pro-labor and pro-education.

Joe Biden is pro-union only in the sense that he is determined to bolster the position of the union bureaucracies as an apparatus to suppress the growing rebellion of the rank and file. His administration has pursued a deliberate policy of corporatism, seeking to integrate the union leaderships evermore closely into the capitalist state machine.

Randi Weingarten personifies the complete integration of the union leadership with the state. Last year, Weingarten personally flew to Ukraine for a pro-war tour. Covering up the sinister history of Ukrainian fascism, she shook hands and took pictures with contemporary followers of the World War II-era Ukrainian Nazi collaborator Stepan Bandera, who bears political responsibility for the murder of hundreds of thousands of Jews and tens of thousands of Poles.

Weingarten is an outspoken promoter of the proxy war against Russia in Ukraine and the historical lies used to justify the war by academics such as Timothy Snyder. Earlier, she supported the US-backed 2014 far-right coup in Kiev. Last summer, the AFT passed a resolution aimed at covering up the integration of far-right and openly fascist forces into the Ukrainian state and military.

Her support for the wars of US imperialism abroad and Washingtons fascist allies must serve as the starkest warning for workers and youth in West Virginia: The AFT bureaucracy is a central part of the machinery of the ruling class for suppressing the class struggle and enforcing its strategy of war abroad and class war at home.

It is therefore no coincidence that in her letter to the Board of Governors, in which she suggested pressuring Jim Justice to allocate money from the state of West Virginia to cover the $45 million deficit at WVU, Weingarten failed to mention the recent funding of a new cybersecurity department at nearby Marshall University for the same amount, $45 million. The role of the AFT bureaucracy in this struggle is not only to demobilize and disperse opposition to the cuts but also to hide from students and faculty what really stands behind the cuts at West Virginia University.

The way forward

In order to fight against the cuts at West Virginia University, workers and youth need a clear political understanding of what they are confronting: Behind the cuts are not simply the personal decisions by the administrators of West Virginia University or President E. Gordon Gee but a bipartisan strategy of the American ruling class to destroy all remaining social and cultural rights of the working class so as to pay for war. In this struggle, the AFT bureaucracy stands on the side of the ruling class, not the workers and students. It seeks to promote illusions that Democratic and Republican lawmakers can be pressured into making concessions as a means of demobilizing the immense opposition to the cuts. But the ruling class is not going to make concessions.

In order to fight against the cuts, workers and youth must counterpose their own strategy of class struggle to the strategy of war of the ruling class. This requires, above all, a break from the trade union bureaucracies and the Democratic Party.

Instead, faculty and students who are determined to fight for their cultural and social rights must turn to the working class. At 11:59 p.m. this Thursday, September 14, the contracts for 150,000 autoworkers in the US will expire, with those for 18,000 Canadian autoworkers expiring on September 18. The conditions are ripe for an international struggle by educators alongside autoworkers and other sections of the working class.

The way to link up the fight at West Virginia University with the struggle of broader sections of the working class in the US and internationally is to establish an independent rank-and-file committee that will raise demands and develop the struggle based on what students and workers need, not what the university administration or the union bureaucracy says is possible.

Many such committees already exist in several countries and industries, organized as part of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC). By joining this movement, students and faculty can connect with the mass struggles in other parts of the world and break free of the straitjacket of the union bureaucracy and the Democratic Party.

We urge all students, faculty and residents of West Virginia who wish to discuss this program and perspective to reach out today to the WSWS and the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE).
More than 1,700 striking nurses at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) in New Brunswick, New Jersey, have begun their sixth week on the picket line demanding increased staffing and better nurse-to-patient ratios. Lacking healthcare benefits and strike pay, the nurses have nevertheless shown great persistence and courage.

Striking nurses at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) in New Brunswick, New Jersey

For the first time since August 16, hospital management has agreed to resume negotiations with officials from United Steelworkers (USW) Local 4-200, the union to which the nurses belong. The meeting was scheduled for this week by a federal mediator, and two mediators have been involved in the dispute since the beginning of the strike.

Far from being impartial, federal mediators function as agents of the state who develop compromises that protect the interests of the corporate and financial elites. President Joe Biden convened a team of such mediators to draft a pro-company agreement that he and Congress imposed on railroad workers last year, after having prevented the workers from striking.

Fully aware of the crucial role that federal mediators play in labor negotiations, the USW leadership has gladly accepted their involvement in discussions with RWJUH, because it helps them cover up the betrayal that they are preparing. As other trade unions routinely do, the USW will use the mediators involvement as an excuse to pressure the nurses to accept another foul agreement that does not address any of their fundamental demands. Union officials will claim that the deal is the best we could do and use the increasing financial pressures on the nurses to end the strike.

Since the strike began on August 4, the USW has shown its unwillingness to wage a serious fight. Union leaders have not lifted a finger to expand the strike to the other two RWJUH campuses. Many of us are not happy with the way this is being handled, a nurse told the World Socialist Web Site. All the facilities should be out on strike. Why have the other hospitals not been called out?

The nurse, who preferred to remain anonymous, explained that she had repeatedly asked union officials when a membership meeting could be held to discuss the strike. They refused to answer me! Finally, they told me, Well, theres going to be a negotiation meeting next week. After that, well call a membership meeting. This telling response by the USW indicates that the meeting will be held not to discuss the broadening of the strike, but to pressure nurses into accepting a concessionary contract.

Instead of mobilizing nurses at the other RWJUH campuses, the USW has called on various Democrats, including Governor Phil Murphy, to pressure the hospital. But despite his occasional pro-labor rhetoric, Murphy is a faithful steward of corporate interests. In April, Murphy ended the first-ever faculty strike at Rutgers University by hammering out a rotten agreement with the administration and the union officials.

Tellingly, the USW has repeatedly sought to redirect the nurses grievances into fruitless appeals for legislative reforms. For instance, the union recently welcomed state Senator Linda Greenstein to the picket line in New Brunswick. Greenstein is a primary sponsor of bill S304, which would mandate staffing ratios for various hospital units (e.g., one nurse for every five patients on a medical/surgical unit, one nurse for every four patients in a pediatric or intermediate-care nursery unit and one nurse for every six patients in a well-baby nursery). But similar bills have been introduced in New Jerseys Senate for the past 20 years, and each has died in committee. Moreover, nurses in California know firsthand that the staffing ratios mandated by law are not enforced, and that hospitals routinely find ways to flout them.

Workers at RWJUH know full well how little value legislative reforms have as a means of improving working conditions and patient safety. This is not just about RWJ, said the anonymous nurse. We are up against the hospital. We are up against the state, up against the government. All these powers are against us.

Besides throwing its support behind the Democrats, the USW recently staged a pointless appeal to the health system that owns RWJUH. On Saturday, union officials led the striking nurses on a march to the home of Mark Manigan, president and CEO of RWJBarnabas Health, in Maplewood. Before joining RWJBarnabas Health, Manigan worked as a lawyer who advised health systems, insurance companies and private equity sponsors. His career has been dedicated to increasing corporate profits by cutting labor costs. USW leaders know that pleading with Manigan will lead nowhere. The silent vigil that they held outside his house was an empty symbolic gesture.

The RWJUH nurses should not expect a breakthrough to occur during this weeks negotiation session. On the contrary, they must be prepared to resist the conspiracy of the federal mediator, the administration of RWJUH and the USW leadership.

For almost six weeks, the USW has kept the New Brunswick nurses isolated from their brothers and sisters at the other RWJUH campuses. The union is hoping that the prolonged strike and the lack of income and insurance will wear down their resistance. In collaboration with the Democrats, the USW is seeking to push workers to accept a tentative agreement that does not provide the staffing, ratios, wages and benefits that they are demanding. Such an outcome would represent not only a defeat for the nurses, but also an attack on patient safety.

The fate of the strike depends on the course that the nurses decide to take. Ceding the initiative to the USW leadership will lead to a betrayal. The strike can be won only if the nurses take control of the struggle by forming a rank-and-file committee that is independent of the USW leadership and of both capitalist parties. The first step must be to broaden the strike to the Somerset and Rahway campuses of RWJUH.

But the struggle is not limited to RWJUH. Healthcare workers everywhere, as well as workers in other industries, are facing the same attacks on their wages and working conditions, as the ruling class seeks to make workers pay for the war in Ukraine.

A reporter from the WSWS asked the nurse quoted above her opinion of the strike vote among healthcare workers at Kaiser Permanente. Ive heard talk that they are in a better situation than us, but I know better, she said. I took care of a person who worked for Kaiser, and their stories are no different than the nurses here. It really doesnt sound good, and they should go out and fight for something better. We all should! Together!

The public support that has buoyed the nurses on the picket line reflects stronger support within the broader working class. It is this class that must be mobilized, not Democratic politicians or well-paid union bureaucrats, to lead the strike to victory. Moreover, the strike must become part of a conscious struggle against the entire system of for-profit medicine, which is incompatible with providing the best standards of healthcare.
German imperialism is reacting to the failed attempt at the G-20 summit to involve emerging countries more strongly in the NATO war offensive against Russia by expanding its war support for Ukraine. Formerly pacifists, the Greens are playing a key role in this.

Green Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock is currently in the US. A central goal of her trip is to coordinate the NATO war offensive. At her meeting with Texas Governor Greg Abbott on Tuesday, Baerbock explained that further support for Ukraine was an important topic that was discussed 'long and intensively.

The fact that Baerbock met Abbott at the beginning of her multi-day trip underlines that the Greens are working with the most reactionary forces to escalate the war and promote the interests of German imperialism. Abbott is politically aligned with former US President Donald Trump. He is considered a supporter of the fascist coup attempt on January 6, 2021, is a vehement opponent of abortion and brutalizes migrants. All this is apparently compatible with Baerbock's so-called feminist foreign policy. The conversation could have gone on for hours, she explained after meeting with Abbott.

On Wednesday, Baerbock continued her war journey and paid a visit to Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls. German fighter pilots have been trained at the airbase in northern Texas since the early 1960s. Since 1 April 2019, the Tactical Training Command of the Air Force has also been stationed there. Today, Thursday, Baerbock will travel to Washington, where she will meet, among others, with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

It is clear that the talks with Blinken will focus on a massive escalation of the war in Ukraine. The leading NATO powersabove all Germany and the USAare desperately trying to avert a complete debacle of the extremely loss-making Ukrainian counteroffensive and to impose a strategic defeat on Russia. Last week Blinken was in Kiev and he promised to continue the war as long as necessary.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, left, and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba pose for photos after a joint news conference following their talks in Kyiv, Sept. 11, 2023. [AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky/Pool]

At the beginning of this week, Baerbock followed him to the same location and repeated Blinkens promise almost verbatim. You can count on Germanys supportas long as it takes, she wrote in a Twitter message to Dmytro Kuleba. And at a joint press conference with her Ukrainian counterpart, she stated: No matter what time of year, we will not let up in supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russias aggression: economic, military, humanitarian.

Kuleba, for his part, praised the German government for its support. Germany is playing an important role in the creation of an anti-aircraft shield and also for tank production and the use of tanks. Above all, the German Cheetah anti-aircraft gun has performed extraordinarily well. The issue now is providing further support in these areas and also the delivery of Taurus cruise missiles.

Baerbock left no doubt that Germany would expand the supply of weapons and employ the well-known propaganda. Help us so that Putin does not win this war, Ukrainian children who had previously allegedly been in Russian captivity implored her. And her answer was: Yes, we support Ukraine in defending itself against Russias aggression. With 22 billion, Germany is now the second largest supporter of Ukraine worldwide and they will not let up, but are already looking to the future.

The implications of this are clear. The same ruling class that already waged two murderous wars against Russia in the 20th century, and also tried to annex Ukraine, is once again aggressively advancing to militarily enforce the interests of German imperialism.

While Baerbock was in Kiev, Rheinmetall announced additional tank deliveries for Kiev. The German Federal Government has commissioned Rheinmetall to supply 40 Marder infantry fighting vehicles to Ukraine, the German armaments giant, which was involved in rearming the Nazi Wehrmacht, said in a statement. So far, the company has already sent 40 Marders to Ukraine; in addition, another 20 armored personnel carriers were included from the Bundeswehr.

The delivery of Taurus cruise missiles is also being prepared behind the scenes. In Kiev, Baerbock made no concrete commitment, but stressed that she was more than aware of the situation. However, it is not enough to just promise things, she added. As before the delivery of other weapon systems, all questions must be clarified.

The procedure follows a familiar pattern. The supply of battle tanks was also prepared long behind the scenes and coordinated with Washington before it was publicly announced.

This is not something you can just do so quicklyas with the Leopard tanks and the Iris-T air defense system, every detail must be clarified beforehand, Baerbock explained in an interview with the Funke media group over the weekend. In the same breath, she called the Ukrainian request for a device with a longer range more than understandable. In order to liberate the people in the east of Ukraine, to hit Russian supply lines behind the defensive line, the mine belt must be overcome.

The shipment would be a massive escalation of NATOs war against Russia and part of an escalation spiral that increasingly directly raises the danger of a third nuclear world war. The Taurus cruise missiles have a range of over 500 kilometers, flying even further than the British-French Storm Shadow/Scalp missiles that are already being delivered to Kiev. They could attack targets not only in Crimea, but deep in the Russian heartland.

This is exactly what the plan is, and it is already taking place. On Wednesday, the Ukrainian army attacked a shipyard in Sevastopol, the largest city in Crimea and the main base of the Russian Black Sea Fleet. According to Russian data, 24 people were injured, four of them seriously. In addition, two warships that were in the shipyard for repair were damaged.

Baerbock justified such attacks and strikes deep into Russia to the Funke media group. When asked whether she also approved of counterattacks on the Russian heartland, she replied: It is not Ukraine that is attacking Russia, but Russia has invaded Ukraine with tanks, soldiers, missiles. If Ukraine defends itself against this in order to protect its people, it does so in accordance with international law. Specifically, the right to self-defense, enshrined in the UN Charter.

This is nothing more than propaganda. In fact, the massive escalation of the war is not about self-defense. The NATO powers deliberately provoked Putins reactionary invasion of Ukraine with the constant expansion of the military alliance to the east, the pro-Western coup in Kiev in 2014 and the systematic arming of right-wing extremist forces in Ukraine. They are continuing to fuel the war to bring Russia to its knees. As in the past, the German elites are not concerned with human rights and democracy, but with concrete imperialist interests.

The war in Ukraine is also a struggle for raw materials, the foreign trade agency Germany Trade and Invest (GTAI) noted in a strategy paper earlier this year. The country has large deposits of iron, titanium and lithium, which are now partly controlled by Russia. The GTAI is fully controlled by the federal government and the Ministry of Economic Affairs under Robert Habeck, another leading member of the Greens. The organisations Supervisory Board is headed by the Green Member of the Bundestag and Parliamentary State Secretary in the Ministry of Economic Affairs Franziska Brantner.

Under the slogan Reconstruction, the German economy is making a grab for Ukraine. During her visit to Kiev, Baerbock announced that she would jointly host the reconstruction conference for Ukraine in Berlin next year. Last August, the Eastern Committee of the German Economy already set up the Recovery Ukraine working group, which published the Rebuild Ukraine dossier in September 2022. It includes proposals of German business for the reconstruction and modernization of the Ukrainian economy.

In addition, there are geostrategic interests at stake, which are particularly openly formulated by the Greens. In Kiev, Baerbock again spoke out in favour of Ukraines admission to the European Union. The enlargement of the EU must be seen as a necessary geopolitical consequence of Russias war, she said. The ruling class is systematically using the war in Ukraine to establish itself as the leading military power in Europe and to assert its own interests worldwide.

This goal is also served by the close foreign policy and military coordination, for the time being at least, with the US. It follows the principle: cooperation where possible and the ability to act alone where necessary, Baberbock explained in the interview already cited. The Russian war of aggression has shown that we Europeans must be more able to protect ourselves. We must be defensive and invest accordingly in our common European defence. This includes the development of a European defence industry and the offensive for a common European missile defence system. From their point of view, they do not tolerate any postponement.

The aggressiveness with which the Greens advocate war and a German-dominated European military and great power policy shows the extent to which the wealthy middle classes, for which the Greens speak, form the new social basis for war and militarism. Among workers and young people, they are increasingly hated for itlike the government as a whole and all capitalist parties.
On September 4, University President Julia von Blumenthal opened the photo exhibition Russian War Crimes in the foyer of the main building of Berlins Humboldt University. The pictures are in the worst tradition of imperialist atrocity propaganda and serve to further escalate the war in Ukraine. The university is thus placing itself directly in the service of German militarism, which for the third time is setting out to militarily defeat and subjugate Russia.

The foyer in the main building at Humboldt University with the exhibition "Russian War Crimes"

Under Adolf Hitler, Humboldt University helped devise the concept of the war of extermination against the Soviet Union. Thus, once again it is participating in the escalation of a terrible war, which was deliberately provoked and is being pushed forward by the NATO powers. They regard Putins reactionary invasion of Ukraine as an opportunity to realise their own imperialist goals.

At the opening of the exhibition, Blumenthal stated unequivocally that Humboldt University was pursuing a clear political goal. She lamented that gradually diminishing support for Ukraine was spreading among the German public. She hoped the university could contribute to reversing this and raise awareness.

The billionaire oligarch Victor Pinchuk, who is financing the exhibition, then explained what this means in concrete terms. To thunderous applause from the 60 or so selected guests, he expressed his hope that the exhibition would help convince governments to send more weapon and much quicker. Significantly, Pinchuk linked this demand directly to the trivialisation of Nazi crimes. For example, he called the Russian invasion a genocide of the Ukrainian population that had destroyed hope that the tragedy of the Holocaust should never be repeated.

Billionaire oligarch Viktor Pinchuk opens the exhibition "Russian War Crimes"

The greatest crimes in human history, which cost the lives of millions of civilians in Ukraine alone, including 1.6 million Jews, were thus placed by Pinchuk on a par with the present war in Ukraine, which has nothing to do with the Nazis war of extermination, either in intention or in execution. The atrocities of the Ukraine war also fall far short of the brutality with which the NATO states have waged their wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Somalia and Syria, in which up to 4.5 million people have fallen victim.

When Pinchuk engages in such a trivialisation of the Holocaust to applause at the former Friedrich Wilhelm University, it is directly aimed at historically whitewashing German imperialism. It is not only the Ukrainian government that is placing itself in the tradition of Nazi collaborators such as Stepan Bandera, but also imperialist Germany that is picking up where its war policy left off in the Second World War.

The extent of the escalation of the war that is being prepared with this propaganda was made clear by Bundestag (federal parliament) Vice-President Katrin Goring-Eckardt (Greens) at the exhibition opening. The goal must not only be the territorial integrity of Ukraineand thus the complete military defeat of Russiabut Russia must also be forced to pay compensation to Ukraine, she said. This will only be possible with a direct war by NATO against Russia and will not only cost the lives of hundreds of thousands more people but will place the survival of the entire human race in question under the threat of nuclear war.

The traveling photo exhibition serves these imperialist aims. It has been shown before at NATO headquarters, at the World Economic Summit in Davos and at the Munich Security Conference. The pictures have nothing in common with the famous anti-war photographs of a Nick Ut or Robert Capa, which captured the cruelty of war and called for reflection on its background but stand in the foul tradition of imperialist atrocity propaganda. They are meant to shock and to portray Russian soldiers as monsters in order to justify a further escalation of the arms race.

This starts with the information board at the beginning of the exhibition. Under the heading Incomplete Map of Russian War Crimes, the 10,926 confirmed civilians killed so far are listed by region. But it fails to mention that this figure also includes the thousands killed by the Ukrainian army, which are summarily blamed on the Russian army. Also not listed are the approximately 3,400 civilians killed in the Donbass from 2014 to 2022.

The same utter one-sidedness is found in the pictures. Not a single photo documents crimes committed by the Ukrainian army, which uses, among other things, outlawed weapons such as depleted uranium-tipped munitions and cluster bombs, or its fascist militias such as the Azov Regiment, which have been shown to have mutilated prisoners of war, raped women, and murdered civilians.

Moreover, in the case of the images that are shown, the claimed Russian authorship of the horror is often not conclusively demonstrated but is part of the propaganda on both sides. This applies to the victims of the destruction of the Kakhovka dam, the bombing of a maternity clinic in Mariupol and the numerous destroyed residential buildings shown in the exhibition. Amnesty International and the UN have long documented that Ukrainian troops use civilian buildings as human shields, which is itself a war crime.

That is why the images are often devoid of context and instead rely on classic stylisations. Even a Pieta-style staging of an old woman with a child in her arms fleeing the flooded areas is presented.

The terrible horror at the front, to which the soldiers of both sides are exposed on a daily basis, on the other hand, is completely hidden. Every day, hundreds of Russian and Ukrainian men are wounded and die in a hail of bullets and shells. None of this is shown in the exhibition, however, because that would demonstrate what further arms deliveries and an intensification of the war mean.

The exhibition reaches its repulsive climax in a video that is projected large-scale on the wall. For ten minutes images are flashed showing corpses, destroyed buildings and other consequences of war, seen so briefly that there is no room whatsoever to engage with the context or even to take in the whole picture. Instead, it serves to merely stir emotions, which are then punctuated with edited sound recordings of presumed conversations of Russian soldiers expressing their joy at killing civilians and looting their homes.

Viewers are not supposed to gain an insight into the horrors of war, the situation of the Ukrainian population and the soldiers at the front. They are not supposed to question the images critically and think about the background of the war and ways to end it. Rather, emotions are to be mobilised to portray the Russian soldiers as monsters and to justify a further escalation of the war.

This kind of atrocity propaganda follows a foul tradition. The Nazis invented or exaggerated actual actions of the Red Army or took them out of their context in order to justify the campaign against the Soviet Union in propaganda terms. A turning point towards unbridled atrocity propaganda was the Nazi newsreel of July 9, 1941. The film used the killing of 4,000 Ukrainian nationalist prisoners of war by the Soviet NKVD to portray the Red Army soldiers as beasts in human form who had massacred men, women and children by the most brutal means. After this broadcast, Hitler personally ordered that more such videos of atrocities be shown in the newsreels so that the German people will realise what the struggle is about and with whom they are dealing with. A propaganda machinery unprecedented until then was created.

Screenshot from the newsreel of July 9, 1941

The fact that the German ruling class is now using these methods again, presenting unexplained events completely one-sidedly and without context, and painting the enemy as a beast, is due to the fact that it is also harking back to the same war aims that Germany already pursued in the First and Second World Wars: the plundering of Ukraine and the subjugation of Russia.

Mindful of this devastating history, Humboldt University would do well to organise an exhibition on the historically unprecedented crimes of German imperialism in its foyer. But the former Friedrich Wilhelm University has long since become a centre of militarism again.

As early as February 2014, when the Maidan coup in Ukraine was in full swing, the current editor-in-chief of Der Spiegel, Dirk Kurbjuweit, relied on the two Humboldt professors Herfried Munkler and Jorg Baberowksi to whitewash the crimes of German imperialism in an extensive article entitled Culpability Question Divides Historians Today.

Munkler took on the task of whitewashing the crimes of the First World War and described the thesis of the famous historian Fritz Fischer that Germany had pursued imperialist goals in the war as outrageous, in principle. Baberowski even claimed that the Nazi apologist Ernst Nolte had been done an injustice and historically speaking, he was right. As justification, he argued that Hitler wasnt vicious and that the Holocaust was essentially the same thing as shootings in the Russian civil war. He had previously claimed that Stalin and his generals had imposed the brutal action against the civilian population on Hitlers Wehrmacht (Army).

Kurbjuweit revived the war propaganda of the fascists. He quoted the inflammatory pamphlet by the notorious anti-Semite R. Nilostonsky The Blood Intoxication of the Bolsheviks as a serious source and uncritically regurgitated its propaganda lies about the Russian civil war, which later served the Nazis as justification for their war of extermination. Among other things, he claimed that the Bolsheviks had their prisoners eaten alive by rats. Like Nolte, Kurbjuweit drew on these propaganda lies to justify Nazi crimes. Of course, Hitler was not unaffected by what he knew about the Russian civil war and Stalinism, again quoting Baberowski.

This boundless trivialisation of Nazi crimes and rehabilitation of Nazi war propaganda was not criticised by a single one of Baberowskis colleagues. On the contrary, the universitys Institute of Historical Studies and the university management published statements in which they backed the far-right professor and attacked criticism of his positions by the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE). Even when Baberowski moved on to threatening other colleagues and even physically assaulting an IYSSE representative to the Student Parliament, he acted with the full support of the university management.

In 2014, the IYSSE had already pointed to the close connection between the rewriting of history at Humboldt University and the return of German militarism. In order to prepare for new wars, the crimes of the Kaisers empire and the Nazi regime must be relativised and history rewritten, they declared in their statement for the 2014 Student Parliament elections. In the same year, the German government announced the end of Germanys military restraint and intensified the NATO course against Russia.

In the meantime, masses of German weapons are being sent to be used against Russia for the third time and the government is openly proclaiming the goal of defeating the country militarily. The biggest rearmament since Hitler is underway. Under these conditions, universities are also being put even more at the service of militarism.

The IYSSE will not allow this. It protests the fact that the university administration is now directly transforming Humboldt University into an exhibition space for war propaganda and will intensify its struggle against the return of German militarism. We call on all students to join the IYSSE and support the fight against war.
On Sunday, September 10, Politico reported extensive and damning revelations on the longstanding connections between Virginia Thomas, the wife of arch-reactionary Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, billionaire Nazi artifact collector Harlan Crow, and Leonard Leo of the Federalist Society.

Their relationship, which included Crows funneling of hundreds of thousands of dollars to entities controlled by Virginia Thomas, began months prior to a pivotal ruling by the Supreme Court that allowed corporations to funnel unlimited amounts of money to their preferred political candidates.

In this November 15, 2007 photo, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas sits with his wife Virginia Thomas as he is introduced at the Federalist Society in Washington. [AP Photo/Charles Dharapak]

On January 21, 2010, Justice Thomas was one of five justices who voted in favor of striking down sections of the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002 (BCRA) that had limited corporate funding of political campaigns.



Politco revealed that in the weeks before Clarence Thomas cast the deciding vote in the Citizens United case, a nonprofit consulting firm controlled by Virginia Thomas received half a million dollars from the billionaire Crow.



Since the Citizens United ruling, billionaires operating in the shadows, behind a constellation of dark money non-profit and for-profit groups, have been able to purchase their preferred politicians and judges in order to advance anti-democratic laws and legal theories aimed at ensuring the right of corporations to unlimited profits.



A January 2023 report from OpenSecrets.org found that since the 2010 Citizens United ruling, [o]utside spending to influence federal elections has...topped $9 billion, with more than $2.6 billion of that coming from unknown sources, with secretly-funded nonprofits accounting for over $1 billion of the outside spending reported to the Federal Election Commission since the 2010 cycle.



In its report on longstanding financial arrangements between the Thomases and right-wing millionaires and billionaires, Politco emphasized the close relationship between Virginia Ginni Thomas and the co-chairman of the far-right Federalist Society, Leonard Leo. Ginni really wanted to build an organization and be a movement leader, Politico wrote, citing a person familiar with her thinking at the time.



Leonard [Leo] was going to be the conduit of that, Politico added.

A cropped image of a painting that hangs at billionaire Harlan Crow's private Topridge resort, featuring him sitting next to Clarence Thomas. Across from Thomas and Crow are lawyers Peter Rutledge, Mark Paoletta and millionaire Leonard Leo (center). [Photo: Sharif Tarabay via ProPublica]

This past May, the Washington Post reported on the conduit role played by Leo, which took the form of arranging for Virginia Thomas to be paid tens of thousands of dollars for consulting work. The Post revealed that beginning in January 2012, Leo instructed Kellyanne Conway, then-CEO of the Polling Company and later a senior advisor in the Trump White House, to bill a nonprofit group he controlled, the Judicial Education Project (JEP), in order to funnel money to Ginni Thomas.



According to the documents reviewed by the Post, Leo instructed Conway to give Thomas another $25K, while emphasizing that the paperwork should have No mention of Ginni, of course. That same day, the Polling Company sent the JEP a $25,000 bill. The obvious implication by the phrase another $25K is that this was far from the first bribe Leo funneled to the Thomases.



Billing documents reviewed by the Post show that Conways Polling Company paid Thomass Liberty Consulting $80,000 between June 2011 and June 2012, with another $20,000 expected by the end of 2012. None of the documents reviewed by the Post detailed any actual work conducted by Thomas.



As co-chairman of the Federalist Society, Leo has been identified as the face of far-right dark money groups. The Federalist Society, founded in 1982, has played an integral role in advancing reactionary and authoritarian legal theories for the benefit of the financial oligarchy.

Six of the current nine Supreme Court justices, including all three of Trumps confirmed judges, were on a pre-approved list handed to Trump by Leo following Trumps 2016 election.



Under Leos leadership, the JEP has filed numerous right-wing amicus briefs before the Supreme Court on cases related to Obamcare, voting rights and affirmative action. Since 2013, the highest paid director of the JEP has been Carrie Severino, a former law clerk under Justice Thomas.



In 2020, Leo rebranded the JEP as The 85 Fund, and reported $65.7 million in annual fundraising. In the lead-up to Trumps attempted coup, The 85 Fund, whose donors include the Koch brothers and Betsy DeVos family, per OpenSecrets, funneled millions to a subgroup called the Honest Elections Project, which spent millions of dollars in the 2020 election cycle to promote the lie that the Democrats cheated in the election through mail-in ballot fraud.



As of 2021, according to Politico, The 85 Fund has collected $117.3 million in anonymous funds.



In its report, Politco revealed that on November 6, 2009, more than two months prior to the Citizens United ruling, top Trump coup attorney Cleta Mitchell filed IRS paperwork for the creation of Liberty Central Inc. This is, perhaps, the first nonprofit firm created prior to the impending ruling that stood to benefit from the decision. On December 31, 2009, less than a month before the ruling, Virginia Thomas signed paperwork incorporating Liberty Central Inc. in Virginia, with Leo listed as a director.



In the following weeks, Harlan Crow seeded $500,000 into Liberty Central Inc. Previous reporting by ProPublica confirmed that billionaire Crow, a connoisseur of Nazi artifacts who is terrified of Marxism, showered the Thomases for decades with expensive trips on his yacht and jet, and vacations at his private resort. Crow also provided money for private tuition for Clarence Thomass great nephew, and purchased Thomass mothers house in Georgia, which Crow has allowed her to live in rent-free, after spending over $100,000 on renovations.

In this July 17, 2012 photo taken at a party in Dallas, Texas, billionaire Republican mega-donor Harlan Crow, right, speaks with former President George W. Bush. [AP Photo/LM Otero]

After Crow showered Thomass wife with $500,000, the Supreme Court Justice ruled less than a month later in favor of corporations unlimited right to campaign spending. He was also the only judge who ruled in favor of abolishing disclosure requirements in the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA), the law that previously restricted corporate spending on elections. Thus Thomas not only ruled in favor of corporations being able to spend unlimited amounts to promote candidates, but also in favor of allowing them to remain anonymous while doing so.



That Cleta Mitchell had an integral role in the money laundering scheme to funnel funds to the Thomases from Crow, Leo and others yet to be identified, is highly revealing. Last month, Michell was identified as one of 20 people named as Trump criminal co-conspirators by a Georgia special purpose grand jury who were not charged by Democratic Fulton County (Atlanta) District Attorney Fani Willis as part of her investigation into Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential vote in Georgia.



In its final report, the special purpose grand jury recommended serious felony charges for Mitchell and 38 other Republicans in relation to Trumps failed coup. The jury recommended charges for Mitchell due to her involvement in several aspects of the coup. These included the fact that four days prior to the attack on the US Capitol led by far-right militia elements, Mitchell joined Trump in badgering Georgia Governor Brian Kemp to support their efforts to overturn the vote in Georgia.

Mitchell, working with Ginni Thomas, also advanced the fraudulent elector scheme in Georgia and other states, including Arizona, Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C., according to evidence reviewed by the special purpose grand jury.

Ex-President Donald Trump and Cleta Mitchell at the White House, August 18, 2020. [Photo: Tia Dufour]

District attorney Willis has yet to publicly comment on why she did not heed the special grand jurys unanimous recommendation that Mitchell be charged with providing false statements, influencing a witness, intentional interference with performance of election duties, and criminal solicitation to commit election fraud. The grand jurors also recommended that Mitchell face Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) charges by a 20-1 margin, the same vote on the same charges the jury returned in regard to Trump, his chief of staff Mark Meadows and other Trump coup lawyers such as Rudy Giuliani, Kenneth Chesebro, Jenna Ellis and John Eastman.



As the WSWS has previously explained, were Willis, or others, to charge Mitchell, who continues to work with far-right groups to disenfranchise voters, the Democrats would be exposing as a lie the main thrust of the January 6 House Select Committee report on the attack on the Capitolnamely, that Trumps coup was the work of Trump alone and few crazy enablers. Mitchell, acting as a consigliere to the Thomases on behalf of the financial oligarchy, exposes the fact that the anti-democratic, fascistic rot extends throughout the ruling class and all of its institutions, including the high court.



It is unclear exactly how much money the Thomases have received from Leos web of billionaire backers, or if they continue to receive consulting payments.



In response to the latest revelations exposing the Thomases seemingly limitless corruption, CNN reported on Tuesday that the invertebrate Democratic chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Dick Durbin (Illinois), made a personal plea to Chief Justice John Roberts for the Supreme Court to create its own ethics code at a closed-door meeting.



After the meeting, CNN reported that Chief Circuit Judge Lavenski Smith briefed the press on what was discussed. Smith said that while ethics were discussed by congressional guests, the judges didnt discuss the issue.
Serious and fatal accidents are increasing at German national rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB). The death of a young train driver on Sunday near Paderborn in North Rhine-Westphalia is already the ninth fatal accident this year, significantly more than in previous years.

The rank-and-file Rail Action Committee, which met again this week on Tuesday evening, is placing the issue of safety at the centre of its work. It calls on railway workers to gather all the information they can to shed light on the real causes of these accidents.

Railway accident near Paderborn [Photo: FB-Gruppe "Der Eisenbahner" ]

In the horrific train accident on Sunday afternoon, September 10, the young train driver Jonas, 32, was killed. He was travelling alone on a goods train coming from the cement works towards the Paderborn-Soest line when the braking system apparently failed. The train derailed in the middle of the town of Geseke, the locomotive turned sideways, and 12 heavily loaded wagons became wedged into each other. Jonas got caught under a tank wagon weighing several tonnes and died. He was not rescued until Monday afternoon, after the cement had been pumped out.

Broadcaster ARDs programme Brisant published a video that clearly shows the locomotive was already on fire while being driven and that the train was heading downhill towards the junction with the main line without braking. The train driver was between two carriages in order to ventilate the main air line and initiate an emergency stop. Shortly before, he had telephoned to ask for a line closure.

Railway workers have vented their grief in FaceBook groups. Mehmet Gul, a colleague of the man who was killed, paid tribute to him: The locomotive caught fire during the shunting run and Jonas gave his life to bring the train to a stop! He tried to protect other lives without thinking too much: He sacrificed himself ...

Jonas the engine driver who came to his death in Geseke [Photo by FB-Gruppe "Der Eisenbahner" ]

Jonas far too early death is not an isolated case. Only two days earlier, on Friday, September 8, a 19-year-old railway apprentice was killed in Hanover-Linden while doing control and safety (LST) work; the exact circumstances are not known. As of September 10, there have been nine fatal accidents at DB AG this year:

January 16, 2023 : On the line between Nuremberg and Regensburg, a locomotive hit two workers engaged in clearing work. One railway employee was killed, his colleague seriously injured.

: On the line between Nuremberg and Regensburg, a locomotive hit two workers engaged in clearing work. One railway employee was killed, his colleague seriously injured. February 4, 2023 : At Bebra station (Eastern Hesse), a shunting worker was hit and killed by a rolling railway wagon.

: At Bebra station (Eastern Hesse), a shunting worker was hit and killed by a rolling railway wagon. February 23, 2023 : A 56-year-old excavator operator was fatally injured while working at night on a railway subway in Bremerhaven.

: A 56-year-old excavator operator was fatally injured while working at night on a railway subway in Bremerhaven. May 4, 2023 : An IC (intercity train) hit two young track workers who were carrying out track tamping work in connection with cable laying in Hurth, near Cologne. Both were killed on the spot. Five other colleagues were able to jump to the side at the last moment. Deutsche Bahn initially published a tweet about unauthorised persons on the track, which it was forced to withdraw after protests.

: An IC (intercity train) hit two young track workers who were carrying out track tamping work in connection with cable laying in Hurth, near Cologne. Both were killed on the spot. Five other colleagues were able to jump to the side at the last moment. Deutsche Bahn initially published a tweet about unauthorised persons on the track, which it was forced to withdraw after protests. June 14, 2023 : Near Stade, a 28-year-old railway employee was hit and killed by the Hamburg-Cuxhaven regional train. He was engaged in pruning work next to the track. His two colleagues, including his brother, managed to save themselves.

: Near Stade, a 28-year-old railway employee was hit and killed by the Hamburg-Cuxhaven regional train. He was engaged in pruning work next to the track. His two colleagues, including his brother, managed to save themselves. July 2, 2023: At Hamm marshalling yard (NRW), a 26-year-old railway worker was caught between a rolling train and a stationary wagon and fatally injured.

This is the most murderous year on the railways for many years. In its annual report for last year, Deutsche Bahn records a total of six fatal accidents for 2020, four for 2021 and seven for 2022. And now, in 2023, with nine fatal accidents before mid-September, there has already been one per month. And this is a European-wide phenomenon: five track workers were hit and killed by a train in northern Italy on September 1.

There is also an increasing number of other accidents at Deutsche Bahn, where only luck meant they did not end fatally. Only one day after Jonas death, another horrific case occurred in Cologne-Kalk on Monday, September 11, when a railway employee was hit by a regional express train. The man had to be resuscitated on the spot and was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

On June 6, at a DB construction site between Hamburg-Langenfelde and Stellingen, an excavator driver hit the overhead line with the bucket of his vehicle and was seriously injured by the electric shock.

Frank S., a member of the Rail Action Committee, also suffered a similar accident 10 days ago. He was severely electrocuted on Monday, September 4, during DB-Netz work on the overhead line near Frankfurt. I could have been dead, said Frank, who was taken to the special clinic seriously injured and in great pain, and still faces a long ordeal.

The Rail Action Committee took Franks accident as the occasion to call on its members and all railway workers to gather relevant information on safety to make public, since the media quickly adopt the version presented by Deutsche Bahn, the police, professional associations and the trade unions. Even a first call to the federal police revealed that in Franks case the investigation was going in the direction of human error. But the real culprits are on the DB board and the federal government, which owns the company. With their rigorous cost-cutting, they blithely accept human error and accidents.

This is always apparent when workers themselves have a say. There are numerous posts in the Facebook groups of railway workers and train drivers that concretely show the real causes of such disasters. For example, a train dispatcher in the FB group Der Eisenbahner describes the prevailing conditions as cancer damage and locates them in the upper level, i.e., Betra office, detailed planner etc. (Betra are the operational instructions that are mandatory before each work step to determine the necessary safety measures.) He describes a night shift that two dispatchers had to manage together:

Last night we had to set up 3 Betras and lift 1 Betra (with installation of track switching equipment and its testing), at the same time points testing work. In addition, there was work from the track and from the overhead line worker. Everything was scheduled for one time, and everyone wanted to start at the same time ... Alongside this (whereby the word ALONGSIDE should not exist in this context) we still drove trains. It was all very questionable. But this is how the pressure on the railways is passed on.

Yet the lives of these workers literally depend on every task they have to solve in a shift! It becomes clear that the systematic reduction of staff and the constantly increasing work pressures must inevitably lead to accidents.

At the last Action Committee meeting on Tuesday, a shunting supervisor from DB Cargo spoke up and explained about the term human error:

Its a well-orchestrated tactic: youre short of staff, and those who are still there are so overworked or so under pressure, so stressed, so tired, that sooner or later theres automatically an accident. Then, of course, DB has won, because it is human error. Yet the conditions under which we work are the problem. And he described his work at a giant railway station that has several kilometres of tracks.

Most recently, he said, they were conducting work with four colleagues, which actually requires 12 employees. You just shake your head and say, how can this work? His conclusion:

Every time I go to work, its like Im going to war. And I worry about my family, because if something should happen to mewho will take care of my children and my wife? The union works for the company; and the government, its actually the head of the snake. But we need the security that nothing will happen to us at work. And if something should happen to methat I wont be blamed.

At the meeting, several members of the Action Committee reported that at large marshalling yards the necessary power cuts sometimes do not take place due to time pressure, but workers still climb up [the gantry] and risk their lives. The remarks made clear how urgent it is now to build independent action committees in all workplaces. Only by putting safety first can the fatal and serious accidents be stopped.

At the end of the Action Committee meeting, after discussion on a number of other important issues, Ulrich Rippert, a leading member of the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (Socialist Equality Party, SGP), spoke again on the issue of workplace accidents and safety. He said:

We need more control over work procedures and processes. People often have the idea that the unions do that, but that is completely wrong. In reality, it is the other way round: These accidents can only take place because the union agrees to the constant, systematic deterioration of working conditions and at the same time enforces cuts in real wages, so that many are no longer willing to do such dangerous, strenuous and underpaid work under these conditions. As a result, there is a shortage of workers, the workload increases, and the risk of occupational accidents constantly increases.

These occupational accidents can only be prevented in the future, he continued, if we take action ourselves. And that means we have to organise ourselves independently. We have to break the control and straitjacket of the trade union apparatus and take control ourselves. Workers health must take priority over profits. He said the formation of the Rail Action Committee was the first, important step towards this end.

Register with the Rail Action Committee to share information about your working conditions at the railways, and to join us in building independent action committees. Register using the form below and contact us via the WhatsApp number +49-163-337 8340.
Commuters walk on a platform at the Fort railway station during locomotive drivers strike in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. [AP Photo/Eranga Jayawardena]

The Locomotive Operating Engineers Union (LOEU) leadership in Sri Lanka last night called off a train drivers strike, less than 48 hours after the walkout began. LOEU secretary S.R.C.M. Senanayake told the media that the union decided to end industrial action following undisclosed assurances from railway authorities and ministry of public transport officials.

The strike, which began on Monday midnight involved 84 of the services 282 train drivers whose promotions have been outstanding for about 10 years and is blocking increases in their salaries.

The LOEU leadership shut down the industrial action without any discussion with their striking members who were continuing their walkout in defiance of an anti-strike Essential Service Order imposed by Wickremesinghe on Tuesday night. Railway authorities responded to the strike by cancelling more than 120 train services. The military were deployed under the pretext of assuring rail station and commuter safety.

Yesterday, the Railway Department issued a statement declaring that unless all striking drivers reported for work they would be considered to have left the service.

Sri Lankan military deployed at Maradana railway station in Central Colombo

In line with its repressive measures, the Wickremesinghe government launched a slander campaign against the drivers. Describing the walkout as an act of train terrorism, public transport minister and cabinet spokesman Bandula Gunawardena declared: As a government, we do not surrender to this type of terror.

The government and media seized on the accidental death on Tuesday of two commuters and the serious injury of another, who fell from trains, to criminalise the strike and mobilise right-wing layers against the strikers.

While the political establishment provocatively accuse the strikers of being responsible for these unfortunate deaths, it is the government that is to blame.

Successive Sri Lankan governments, including the current regime, have cut rail service funding and wilfully ignored safety warnings by rail workers. The service is seriously undermanned, with shortages of drivers, guards and station masters. The rail lines have not been repaired for years.

One of those killed was a Moratuwa University student who fell from a Colombo-bound Kandy train. Several passengers told the media that the government should be held to account for the deaths. One student said: It is very regretful. A valuable life was lost. The rulers of this country must be responsible for that. A woman angrily cursed the political elite, stating: Thunder must hit them.

Workers packed into traveling in an overcrowded train

The Wickremesinghe government is fearful that the rail drivers strike or any other industrial action, will rapidly produce the sort of mass uprising that last year ousted President Gotabhaya Rajapakse and his government. There is widespread opposition among working people to the International Monetary Fund dictated attacks on jobs, wages an living conditions.

Wickremesinghe has regularly used essential service orders to suppress workers struggles. In March this year these laws were employed against half a million workers from both public and private sectors who took national industrial action against the governments social austerity measures. The unions, however, have refused to fight these repressive measures.

The LOEU leadership has not condemned the governments Essential Service Order or issued any call for other railway workers to defend the strikers.

Nor has any other railway union, including the All Ceylon Railway Employees Union, which is controlled by the opposition Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna, and Sri Lanka Railway Station Masters Union (SLRSMU), taken any action to defend the striking drivers or denounce the government repression.

SLRSMU president Sumeda Somarathne told the media that his union did not support the LOEU strike, stating even if there were outstanding promotion issues, now is not the time to raise these demands.

Like the government, the unions fear the rising anger of rail workers over the attacks on their wages and conditions, and are consciously working to prevent unified working-class action.

The railway workers strike is a part of a rising movement of the Sri Lankan working class. On August 28, over 1,000 workers protested against the government attacks on pensions, while thousands of government development officers demonstrated in several towns across the island on the same day to demand a wage rise.

In line with Wickremesinghes IMF cost-cutting and job destruction policies, 430 state-owned enterprises, including the railway department, are targeted for privatisation/restructuring.

On July 24, Wickremesinghes cabinet approved the conversion of the Railway Department into a corporate authority, the first step towards its privatisation. The cabinet also appointed a committee to present suitable proposals for the departments restructuring under a more efficient framework.



These proposals will severely impact on jobs, wages and working conditions of 18,000 rail workers and their families and lead to increased fares for commuters.

Like all other trade unions in Sri Lanka, the rail unions do not oppose the IMF austerity program and privatisation. Instead, the unions deliberately maintain and foster divisions by grade in the 18,000-strong railway workforce and dissipate opposition through partial and limited protests. These unions have been notorious for calling off protests or strikes, citing bogus promises by authorities to look into issues, as the LOEU bureaucracy did last night.

On July 23, the LOEU arbitrarily called off a train drivers strike after accepting vague promises on staffing from railway authorities. The strike was over the introduction of six new train journeys without the hiring of more drivers and rail guards to operate the services.

On Monday, workers at the Maradana railway yard in Colombo held a wildcat strike in protest against the non-payment of incentives for months. The union called off the strike after four hours, after accepting a promise from the railway general manager to settle the issues.

Rail workers and other sections of the working class cannot defend their jobs, wages and conditions through the trade unions, which operate as industrial police for the government and international capital. These struggleswhether on immediate issues at their workplace or against governments IMF measuresbring the working class into direct conflict with the government, the state and the union apparatuses.

In order to take forward the fight for all their rights, workers must take matters into their hands through building of their own action committees independent of the union bureaucracies. They need to turn to other sections of the working class in a political and industrial struggle against the Wickremesinghe government and for a workers and peasants government based on a socialist program.
A general view of the city of Derna as seen on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023. [AP Photo/Jamal Alkomaty]

More than 6,000 people are confirmed dead in the flooding across eastern Libya caused by Storm Daniel, which burst two dams and destroyed large parts of the port city of Derna. Many thousands are still missing and the confirmed death toll is expected to at least double as the remains of victims the flood swept out to sea wash back ashore.

This horrific catastrophe is not only the product of severe weather, intensified by climate change. It flows from the war NATO waged against Libya in 2011, which shattered the country and plunged it into civil war. Those who launched the NATO war in Libya or applauded it as a humanitarian intervention, and who today are backing a NATO war against Russia in Ukraine on similar grounds, bear direct political and moral responsibility for the Derna catastrophe.

Last year, hydrologist Abdelwanees Ashoor wrote articles warning that Dernas dams were in poor condition, and that a major flood would be likely to cause one of the two dams to collapse. Ashoor continued, If a huge flood happens, the result will be catastrophic for the people of the wadi and the city.

No repairs were done, however, because of the civil war that has raged between rival governments in eastern and western Libya since NATO destroyed Colonel Muammar Gaddafis regime in the 2011 war. International Crisis Group official Claudia Gazzini told France24: In 10 years since the fall of the Gaddafi regimein the following 10 years of wars, policy rivalry and isolationboth governments have completely neglected the infrastructure.

What is systematically covered up, however, is the NATO powers role in instigating the civil war that created the conditions for the flood. Top NATO officials launched the 2011 war in Libya, relying on the professional liars in the major media, the academic establishment and the middle-class pseudo-left parties to sell the war as a crusade for democracy and human rights. These forces all have blood on their hands.

This includes then-US President Barack Obama, then-UK Prime Minister David Cameron and then-French President Nicolas Sarkozy, whose governments pressed the hardest for the 2011 war in Libya. Also complicit are the major media outlets such as the New York Times and CNN, which peddle CIA-dictated propaganda, as well as legions of cowardly and conformist academics like Professor Juan Cole of the University of Michigan and pseudo-left political operatives like Professor Gilbert Achcar of Frances New Anti-capitalist Party (NPA). They backed the war in Libya then, as they back NATOs Ukraine war now.

NATO launched the war in Libya in February 2011, claiming that only its intervention could keep Gaddafi from killing protesters in eastern Libya, the same region now devastated by floods. To topple Gaddafi, NATO armed a collection of rival Islamist and tribal militias, led by figures such as Libyan Islamic Fighting Group leader Abdelhakim Bekhadj, CIA asset Khalifa Haftar, and leaders of the Misrata Brigades. It then provided its proxy forces with air support, bombing Libyan army forces that fought the NATO-backed insurgent militias.

The war ended after seven months of fighting that claimed an estimated 25,000 lives, as NATO bombed Tripoli and Sirte, Gaddafis home city. On October 20, 2011, a gang of militiamen that included French intelligence agents captured, tortured and murdered Gaddafi in the ruins of Sirte. Then-US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton gloated on the day of Gaddafis death, laughing and telling reporters: We came, we saw, he died.

The World Socialist Web Site exposed the imperialist interests motivating the war on oil-rich Libya and exposed the lies used to justify the war. Examining the case of professor and Middle East blogger Juan Cole, David North pointed to the pro-imperialist political amnesia that afflicted a broad layer of petty-bourgeois supporters of the war. North wrote:

Those who are hailing the attack on Libya as a triumph for the cause of human rights seem to have no recollection at all of the monstrous role played by the United States in attacking and subverting countries that interfered, in one way or another, with its strategic political and economic interests. It is not only the past that is forgotten (Vietnam, the savage war of the Contras in Nicaragua, the fomenting of civil wars in Angola and Mozambique, the overthrow and murder of Lumumba in the Congo, the longstanding support for the apartheid regime in South Africa, the invasion of Iraq); the present is all but ignored. The pro-war left assigns to the United States the task of removing Gaddafi for firing on his people, even as Predator drones rain missiles down upon Afghanistan and Pakistan, killing people every day.

As the war began, Cole attacked left-wing opposition to it, declaring that the left should avoid making foreign intervention an absolute taboo, and adding, To make anti-imperialism trump all other values in a mindless way leads to frankly absurd positions. To underscore his enthusiastic support for the US and NATO, he said, If NATO needs me, Im there.

Similarly, Achcar, a professor at Londons School of Oriental and African Studies and member of the Pabloite NPA, who functions as an adviser to the British army, admitted that the war aimed to plunder Libyas oil resources, but backed NATO anyway.

The Western response, of course, smacks of oil, Achcar said in 2011. However, he argued, this was not a reason to oppose the war:

Here is a case where a population is truly in danger, and where there is no plausible alternative that could protect it. The attack by Gaddafis forces was hours or at most days away. You cant in the name of anti-imperialist principles oppose an action that will prevent the massacre of civilians.

And once the Gaddafi regime had been toppled, New York Times journalist Nicholas Kristof traveled to Libya and boasted that the NATO war had turned him into a hero in Tripoli. In a column titled Thank You America!, Kristof wrote:

Americans are not often heroes in the Arab world, but as nonstop celebrations unfold here in the Libyan capital, I keep running into ordinary people who learn where Im from and then fervently repeat variants of the same phrase: Thank you America!

In reality, the NATO victory in Libya resulted in a human tragedy. The country again plunged into civil war in 2012, after oil-rich eastern Libya tried to secede and cut its own deals with the major NATO oil corporations. Along with the escalation of civil war over the ensuing decade, there have been tens of thousands more deaths. Economic production has fallen by half, from $92 billion in 2012 to $46 billion last year, while gross domestic product per capitaroughly speaking, average personal incomehas fallen from $15,765 to $6,716.

All the officials and professors who argued that the NATO conquest of Libya would produce peace, prosperity and democracy bear responsibility for the tens of thousands of deaths and incalculable human misery that have resulted from the war they backed and actively promoted. Cole claimed he supported the war because it created the prospect of allowing Libyans to have a normal life. But the war supposedly waged for democracy and normality devastated Libya and led to the reintroduction of slavery in the country.

In 2017, citing multiple reports in world media, Amnesty International concluded that in camps the European Union (EU) set up in Libya to detain refugees trying to flee to Europe, prisoners are beaten, raped, murdered and sold at auction into slavery.

Today, what do the war propagandists have to say about the catastrophe in Derna and the role their support for war has played? Cole and Achcar, on their blogs, have said nothing. They have left the disaster they helped create in Libya behind. Achcar has moved on to advocating support for the latest NATO warthis time, against Russia.

The war against Russia in Ukraine flows directly out of the spiral of military escalation launched by NATO. After the war in Libya, the NATO powers soon mobilized the Islamist networks they had used against Gaddafi as proxy forces to wage war in Syria. In September 2013, Russian warships based at Sevastopol intervened to block NATO ships from bombing Syria. Less than five months later, Washington and Berlin backed the February 2014 Maidan coup in Ukraine and demanded that Russia hand over Sevastopol and the entire Crimean Peninsula to the newly installed pro-NATO regime in Kiev.

The decisive task facing workers and youth around the world is to build an international movement against imperialism to halt this spiral of military escalation, which is setting into motion an ever-greater chain of catastrophes. As the NATO imperialist powers escalate the war in Ukraine and conspire to divide up Russia and grab its natural resources, they again present themselves as defenders of democracy and freedomthis time, against Russian President Vladimir Putin. In reality, the rape of Libya and the catastrophe in Derna are imperishable warnings on the disastrous consequences of NATO victory in its wars of plunder.
Mr. Emin Guliyev is a renowned line producer with an impressive portfolio of 42 international projects in Azerbaijan like "Le Bureau de Legende" TV program Chanel+ (France) 2015, "Junga" full-length (India, France, Azerbaijan) 2017, "Vinaya Videya Rama" full-length (India, Georgia, Turkiye, Azerbaijan) 2018, "Action full-length (India), Turkiye, Azerbaijan) 2019, etc. He has also produced over 60 local commercials and short films. He has worked as the second director of the Icheri Sheher film in 2014. He graduated from Baku State University in 2008. In 2013 he studied at the production department of the Rotterdam Film School. He also took courses at the New York Film Academy in Ukraine and a production course in Serbia. Here, he shares his insights on the growing momentum of India-Azerbaijan cooperation in the field of film production.

Q1: Could you elaborate on your role as a line producer?

Emin Guliyev: In the realm of filmmaking, a line producer serves as the head of the production office. This role involves managing the daily operations of film production, including overseeing personnel, addressing production challenges, handling budgets, scheduling, and supervising various physical aspects of the film's creation.

Q2: How did your collaboration with the Indian film industry commence, and how extensive has your involvement been thus far?

Emin Guliyev: The journey with the Indian film industry started in March 2018, specifically with the "Junga" project. Although originally planned for France, the project transitioned to Azerbaijan and Georgia due to cost considerations. This marked the beginning of our collaboration, which has led to the completion of 26 projects, ranging from films to commercials and musical clips, all shot in diverse locations.

Q3: What motivates the Indian film industry to opt for Azerbaijan as a shooting location?

Emin Guliyev: The allure of Azerbaijan for the Indian film industry primarily resides in its stunning landscapes and locations. The visual aesthetics of a films setting often overshadow budgetary concerns. Given that India produces a substantial number of films annually, shooting in different international locations adds a unique flair to their projects and piques the curiosity of moviegoers. Azerbaijan presents resemblances to European nations, offering a versatile backdrop for diverse scenarios. Interestingly, we've recreated various foreign settings within Azerbaijan itself. Furthermore, the cost-effectiveness of filming in Azerbaijan sets it apart from other European counterparts, making it an attractive option for filmmakers. Also, Presently, Azerbaijan stands out as the most economically viable European country for filming endeavors.

Q4: How does the film industry's influence extend beyond filmmaking itself?

Emin Guliyev: The impact of the film industry is more far-reaching than one might assume. Beyond the creation of films, it generates revenue streams for hotels, catering, and transportation companies. Additionally, it stimulates ticket and visa sales, employs local support staff, and indirectly promotes tourism through the exposure of captivating locations on-screen.

Q5: Can you elaborate on the cultural similarities that foster successful collaborations between India and Azerbaijan?

Emin Guliyev: The resonance between Indian and Azerbaijani cultures is notable in various aspects, such as temperament, character, musical inclinations, family values, and work ethics. This inherent alignment facilitates smoother interactions and collaborations between the two film industries.

Q6: Could you discuss the significance of trust in cross-country film production, particularly in your interactions with Indian producers?

Emin Guliyev: Trust forms the cornerstone of successful cross-country collaborations, especially when dealing with Indian producers. Unlike some European counterparts, for Indian producers, personal relationships and gestures hold immense importance. How you receive and bid farewell to them, as well as your willingness to go beyond the required efforts, profoundly impact their perception.

Q7: What measures can be taken to further facilitate the growth of Indian projects in Azerbaijan?

Emin Guliyev: The Azerbaijani Government has initiated pivotal steps, including a streamlined visa process and direct flight connections. Building in-person connections through trips, meetings, and participation in film festivals within India is crucial for fostering trust. These interactions hold the potential to attract more Indian projects to Azerbaijan, benefiting both industries. My gratitude extends to the Indian film industry, as their projects not only enrich me but also contribute to Azerbaijans film sector, offering invaluable experiences and learning opportunities.

Q8. The Embassy of India in Azerbaijan has recently held an event titled Bollywood meets Baku which featured your presentation about Indian and Azerbaijan film cooperation. Can you elaborate on it?

Emin Guliyev: Yes, the Embassy of India organized an event titled 'Bollywood Meets Baku: A Talk on India - Azerbaijan Film Cooperation, on July 7, 2023.

The special event witnessed the presence of a distinguished ensemble of guests. H.E. Vice Minister Mr. Sanjay Verma, Ambassador Mr. Sridharan Madhusudhanan, Mr. Matin Mirza from the Azerbaijan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, actor and TV host Mr. Shahriyar Abhilov, Mr. Elman Mammadov from the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, and Mr. Dadash Mammadov of the Art Council Azerbaijan were among the esteemed attendees. Also in attendance were Mr. Jai Dalwani, the President of the Indian Association Azerbaijan, the Association's Vice President, Ms. Binu Jacob, and other distinguished guests from India, Azerbaijan, and other countries.

I interlaced my presentation with engaging visual illustrations, underscoring the robust influence of the Indian film industry and the growing fascination of Indian filmmakers with Azerbaijan. The gathering marked not just an event but a significant step towards a deeper understanding and collaboration between the cinematic landscapes of India and Azerbaijan.

The event also marked promising future alliances between our vibrant film industries of India and Azerbaijan.




Tourists visit the Bardo National Museum in Tunis, capital of Tunisia, Sept. 14, 2023. Tunisia's Bardo National Museum reopened on Thursday after more than two years of closure. (Photo by Adel Ezzine/Xinhua)

TUNIS, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Tunisia's Bardo National Museum reopened on Thursday after more than two years of closure, local private radio network Jawhara FM reported.

The museum was closed on July 25, 2021, when Tunisian President Kais Saied shuttered the parliament and its adjacent building of the museum.

However, Tunisian Culture Minister Hayat Guermazi confirmed Wednesday night during a ceremony that "the closure was due to the ministry's ongoing maintenance and restoration work on the historic building."

The museum was once hit by a terrorist attack in 2015, which killed more than 20 people in the building and its environs.

Located in the capital Tunis, the national museum, founded in 1888, is the flagship of Tunisian heritage and hosts the second-largest collection of mosaics in the world. It used to receive 50,000 visitors worldwide every year before its closure. 

Tourists visit the Bardo National Museum in Tunis, capital of Tunisia, Sept. 14, 2023. Tunisia's Bardo National Museum reopened on Thursday after more than two years of closure. (Photo by Adel Ezzine/Xinhua)

Tourists visit the Bardo National Museum in Tunis, capital of Tunisia, Sept. 14, 2023. Tunisia's Bardo National Museum reopened on Thursday after more than two years of closure. (Photo by Adel Ezzine/Xinhua)

A visitor appreciates an exhibit on display at the Bardo National Museum in Tunis, capital of Tunisia, Sept. 14, 2023. Tunisia's Bardo National Museum reopened on Thursday after more than two years of closure. (Photo by Adel Ezzine/Xinhua)

Tourists visit the Bardo National Museum in Tunis, capital of Tunisia, Sept. 14, 2023. Tunisia's Bardo National Museum reopened on Thursday after more than two years of closure. (Photo by Adel Ezzine/Xinhua)

A visitor appreciates collections on display at the Bardo National Museum in Tunis, capital of Tunisia, Sept. 14, 2023. Tunisia's Bardo National Museum reopened on Thursday after more than two years of closure. (Photo by Adel Ezzine/Xinhua)
Workers peel shrimps at a factory in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on Sept. 7, 2023. Cambodia on Thursday exported its first batch of wild aquatic products directly to China, marking another fruitful cooperation between the two countries in the fisheries sector. (Photo by Van Pov/Xinhua)

PHNOM PENH, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia on Thursday exported its first batch of wild aquatic products directly to China, marking another fruitful cooperation between the two countries in the fisheries sector.

Kim Chou Co., Ltd Import Export and International Transportation is the first Cambodian company authorized to export wild aquatic products directly to China.

"This is the first time that Cambodia exports wild aquatic products to China directly, departing from the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port to the Port of Shanghai," Heng Mengty, export manager of Kim Chou Co., Ltd Import Export and International Transportation, told Xinhua.

"In this first shipment, we export two kinds of products, namely frozen eels and frozen freshwater glass shrimps, in a total amount of 10 tons," he added.

Mengty said the shipment is expected to reach Shanghai on Oct. 15 or 16.

He said the products were purchased from fishermen in some provinces around the Tonle Sap Lake, including the provinces of Kampong Thom, Pursat and Siem Reap.

"For products' quality and sanitary standard, we have complied with China's requirements because we have trained our employees, and Chinese experts have directly controlled the quality," he said.

"This export will contribute to economic growth, creating jobs for our farmers and fishermen."

Mengty expressed his sincere thanks to China for granting the direct access of Cambodia's wild aquatic products to its market, saying that the company is expected to export some 240 tons of wild aquatic products to China per year.

Phat Sokra, a 30-year-old worker at the Kim Chou company, said his routine duties are sifting, selecting, peeling and packaging glass shrimps in plastic bags before putting them into a freezer.

"When the shrimps are frozen, we arrange them into boxes and put into containers for exporting to China," he told Xinhua.

"These wild aquatic products will be put for sales in the Chinese market. I feel happy because their purchase has created jobs for us and generated income for our fishermen," he added.

The export came after the General Administration of Customs of China in May allowed the Southeast Asian nation to ship its wild aquatic products directly to China, and the company is allowed to export 11 kinds of Cambodian wild aquatic products to China, including wild shrimp, wild fish, wild eel and wild snails.

Im Rachna, undersecretary of state and spokeswoman for Cambodia's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, said it was good news, expressing her confidence that Cambodian wild aquatic products would also be popular among Chinese consumers.

"It is a new success for the development of our fisheries sector, and the export of our wild aquatic products to China will not only give a boost to Cambodia-China trade volume, but also improve the livelihoods of our farmers," she told Xinhua.

Wild aquatic products are the Cambodia's second agricultural products authorized to be exported to China this year after pepper. 
Indonesian President Joko Widodo took a ride Wednesday on the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR), a landmark project under the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Moros attend the plenary session and closing ceremony of the 17th meeting of the Mixed Venezuela-China High-Level Committee in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)

BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang has called on China and Venezuela to strengthen political mutual trust and expand practical cooperation to constantly push for new progress in bilateral ties.

Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks at the plenary session and closing ceremony of the 17th meeting of the Mixed Venezuela-China High-Level Committee on Wednesday.

Ding said China and Venezuela are good friends and good partners, adding that China has always viewed its relations with Venezuela from a strategic and long-term perspective, and bilateral ties have maintained steady and sound development.

China and Venezuela are both developing countries, and the two sides boast a solid foundation, great potential and broad prospects for cooperation, Ding said.

Fully acknowledging the role of the Mixed Venezuela-China High-Level Committee in advancing bilateral ties, the vice premier said he expects the committee to provide more guidance to bilateral cooperation and push bilateral practical cooperation to a higher level.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said that the two countries have reached a new milestone in bilateral cooperation, and expressed hopes for more exchanges and cooperation between the two sides to constantly advance bilateral ties.

Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Eloina Rodriguez Gomez and Zheng Shanjie, head of China's National Development and Reform Commission, attended the meeting. 
1. In his memoir, Me Elton John recalled the time he and John Lennon were determinedly making [their] way through a pile of coke, when Andy Warhol knocked on the door.

Simone Joyner / Getty Images

Elton wrote that he peered through the peephole and saw Andy with his Polaroid camera. When he asked John if he should open the door, John replied, No fucking way. Dont answer it. Do you want him coming in here taking photos when youve got icicles of coke hanging out of your nose? So they both hid until Andy left.

Steve Morley / Redferns / Getty

2. Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, Matthew Perry wrote about falling in love with In his book,Matthew Perry wrote about falling in love with Julia Roberts , but ultimately, breaking up with her because he couldn't handle the pressure.

"I did let her in, both figuratively and literally, and a relationship began," he wrote. "It was like she was placed on this planet to make the world smile, and now, in particular, me. I was grinning like some 15-year-old on his first date." Phillip Faraone / Getty Images for GQ

"Dating Julia Roberts had been too much for me. I had been constantly certain that she was going to break up with me. Why would she not? I was not enough; I could never be enough; I was broken, bent, unlovable," he wrote . "So instead of facing the inevitable agony of losing her, I broke up with the beautiful and brilliant Julia Roberts."

Getty Images

3. Courteney Cox 's house. As a self-proclaimed "Friends fanatic," he shared that he was thrilled when he found himself at Courteney's house while party-hopping with friends and needed a place to spend the night. In his memoir, Spare Prince Harry recounted the time he tripped on shrooms at's house. As a self-proclaimed "fanatic," he shared that he was thrilled when he found himself at Courteney's house while party-hopping with friends and needed a place to spend the night.

Courteney, who was supposed to be traveling at the time, "didn't mind" if they "crashed at her place." But then Courteney returned early and kept the party going by inviting a few more famous friends, including Will Arnett. David M. Benett / Alan Chapman/Dave Benett / Getty Images

"Then, maybe to get rid of us, [Will] led my mate and me to the fridge, from which he extracted a soft drink. While the door was open, we spotted a huge box of black diamond mushroom chocolates," Harry wrote. "Somebody behind me said they were for everybody. Help yourself, boys. My mate and I grabbed several, gobbled them, washed them down with tequila." Shortly after, the mushrooms kicked in, and he recalled seeing monsters.

"Beside the toilet was a round silver bin, the kind with a foot pedal to open the lid. I started at the bin. It started back. What  staring? I stepped on the pedal. A huge open grin," he wrote. "Now the loo became a head, too. The bowl was its gaping maw, the hinges of the seat were its piercing silver eyes. It said: Aaah." Dominik Bindl / FilmMagic, Andrew Toth / WireImage

4. In his memoir, Pageboy , Elliot Page wrote about his secret relationship with Kate Mara, which happened at the same time she was dating actor Max Minghella. He wrote, "The first person I fell for after my heart was broken was Kate Mara."

Elliot recalled seeing Kate at a party where she started flirting with him, but he "could never imagine Kate Mara would want [him]." Weeks later, he attended a party at Kate and Max's home where she openly flirted with Elliot, and Max stood close by "not giving it a second look." "I could not stop thinking about her. I was a goner," he wrote after adding that the couple had gone on several dates. Steve Granitz / FilmMagic

But while he was falling, he knew he was setting himself up for heartbreak because Kate was still with Max. "Everything with Kate was becoming more complicated, more loaded. I was feeling let down. Perhaps the excitement no longer outweighed the challenges," he added. "I was chasing something that could not be, letting lust overwhelm me."

Stefanie Keenan / Getty Images for Vacheron Constantin

5. Glee costar Lea Michele. In her memoir, Sorry Not Sorry: Dreams, Mistakes, and Growing Up , Naya Rivera opened up about not getting along withcostar Lea Michele.

Michael Kovac / WireImage

"I don't hate Lea, and I never have... I think Rachel  erm, I mean Lea  didnt like sharing the spotlight. She had a hard time separating work from our outside friendship, whereas it was a lot easier for me," she wrote. "Im not offended when people offer feedback or criticism, and if things get heated on set, I try to keep perspective. Lea was a lot more sensitive, though, and sometimes it seemed like she blamed me for anything and everything that went wrong.

Fox / FOX Image Collection via Getty Images

6. Star Wars movie in the '70s. At the time, she was 19 and he was 33, married with two kids. In her memoir, The Princess Diarist , Carrie Fisher revealed that she had an affair with Harrison Ford while filming their firstmovie in the '70s. At the time, she was 19 and he was 33, married with two kids.

She wrote, "I began filming Star Wars hoping to have an affair. Hoping to strike people as sophisticated and louche, someone youd think had gone to boarding school in Switzerland with Anjelica Huston and had learned to speak four languages." Dimitrios Kambouris / Getty Images

She recalled the first time they slept together was after George Lucass 32nd birthday, in his studio car on their way back to London. She said, "A tug-of-war involving my wine-sodden virtue was underway, and I was unclear how it would turn out  but I realized who it was I wanted to win: my costar, the one with the scar on his chin, the dialogue in his head, and the gun in his belt  not now, just when in character, but still. After a mad scuffle, Mr. Ford threw my virtue and me into the back seat of his studio car and commanded the driver to 'Go! GO!' We went, followed by the crew."

She said, "Harrison made me feel nervous. I got tongue-tied in his company, and clumsy. I was with him when we worked together and tried to avoid him otherwise, so as not to annoy him. It was more comfortable to hang out with the cast and crew, who were more fun and less immune to my charms. But when I look back with squinting eyes, I figure Harrison was scoping out the set in those early days. Not to have an affair, necessarily, but not not to, either. We were on location, after all, and a quiet jaunt on the side was almost expected." She added that the affair went on for three months before she ended things, and they "never again acknowledged that anything of that nature had occurred." New York Daily News Archive / NY Daily News via Getty Images

7. Monica Lewinsky everything she knows about eye cream. She wrote, "In the spring of 1999, I participated in a secret meeting with Monica Lewinsky, SNL producer Marci Klein, and fellow SNL writer Paula Pell... This was before Ms. Lewinskys infamous Barbara Walters interview aired. None of us had ever heard her speak before." In her memoir, Bossypants , Tina Fey claims she taughteverything she knows about eye cream. She wrote, "In the spring of 1999, I participated in a secret meeting with Monica Lewinsky,producer Marci Klein, and fellowwriter Paula Pell... This was before Ms. Lewinskys infamous Barbara Walters interview aired. None of us had ever heard her speak before."

Theo Wargo / Getty Images for Tribeca Festival

She added, "Monica was bright and personable and very open with us  maybe too open for a person in her situation... We talked about things. Weight Watchers, and Brazilian bikini waxes... When the topic turned to eye cream, I wanted to talk, so I shared the one piece of information Id retained from the mean woman at the La Mer counter in Saks. Youre supposed to gently pat it on with your ring finger. I demonstrated. Oh, really?' Monica asked with a level of interest and gullibility that explained a lot. To this day, I think of Monica whenever I apply my eye cream. And Im sure she thinks of me.

Ron Galella / Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images

8. Sam & Cat costar Ariana Grande because of the special treatment she got on set. Jennette said she was constantly called a "good sport," and explained, "I know why Im hearing this phrase so often. Its because my costar Ariana Grande is a burgeoning pop star who misses work regularly to go sing at award shows, record new songs, and do press for her upcoming album while I stay back and angrily hold down the fort." In her memoir, I'm Glad My Mom Died , Jennette McCurdy wrote about the jealousy she felt toward hercostar Ariana Grande because of the special treatment she got on set. Jennette said she was constantly called a "good sport," and explained, "I know why Im hearing this phrase so often. Its because my costar Ariana Grande is a burgeoning pop star who misses work regularly to go sing at award shows, record new songs, and do press for her upcoming album while I stay back and angrily hold down the fort."

She added, "So I have to turn down movies while Arianas off whistle-toning at the Billboard Music Awards. Ariana misses work in pursuit of her music career while I act with a box. Im pissed about it. And Im pissed at her. Jealous of her." Jennette even said that she felt jealous of Ariana for having "a much easier upbringing than [she] did." Jamie Mccarthy / Getty Images

"What finally undid me was when Ariana came whistle-toning in with excitement because she had spent the previous evening playing charades at Tom Hankss house," she wrote. "That was the moment I broke. I couldnt take it anymore. From that moment on, I didnt like her. I couldnt like her. Pop star success I could handle, but hanging out with Sheriff Woody, with Forrest Fucking Gump? This has gone too far."

Bruce Glikas / FilmMagic

Gregg Deguire / WireImage

She added that she believed she helped him finish. Mr. Nicholson had two beautiful women with him, she wrote. They were all giggling and kissing up against the wall, sliding all over each other. I walked by to use the mirror, bending over the sink to fix my lip gloss. Trying not to look, but I couldnt help myself and caught his eye in the reflection. I guess that got him to the finish line, because he made a funny noise, smiled, and said, Thanks, dear.

Ron Galella, Ltd. / Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images

10. Trejo: My Life of Crime, Redemption, and Hollywood, Danny Trejo revealed that he met the infamous Charles Manson in prison and got In his memoir,Danny Trejo revealed that he met the infamous Charles Manson in prison and got hypnotized by him.

Jon Kopaloff / Getty Images for Lionsgate

Back in 1961, when Danny was only 17, he was arrested and brought to the Los Angeles County jail, where Manson was also being held. He shared that in exchange for protection, Manson told his jail mates that he would take them through a guided meditation that would get them high without actually using any drugs.

He wrote, "Even before I fake-fixed, I could taste it in my mouth. Any junkie knows what that is like. By the time he described it hitting my bloodstream, I felt the warmth flowing through my body." So, they sat down, closed their eyes, and the meditation began. "For 15 minutes, in great detail, he walked us through the process of copping the dope, finding a place to fix, cooking the heroin in a spoon, drawing it into a needle, and sticking it in our veins." Danny, who's been sober since 1969, ended with, "If that white boy wasn't a career criminal, he could have been a professional hypnotist." Bettmann / Bettmann Archive / Getty

11. Six Degrees of Separation, he actually In his book, Will , Will Smith shared that because of his method acting forhe actually fell in love with his costar Stockard Channing. At the time, he had just welcomed a new baby with his then-wife, Sheree Zampino.

He wrote, "Sheree and I were in the first few months of our marriage with a brand-new baby, and for Sheree, I can imagine that this experience was unsettling to say the least. She'd married a guy named Will Smith, and now she was living with a guy named Paul Poitier. And to make matters worse, during shooting I fell in love with Stockard Channing." Gregg Deguire / WireImage

He also explained that his marriage to Sheree was off to a "rocky start" because he found himself "desperately yearning to see and speak" to Stockard.

He added, "I was like, 'Oh no! What have I done?' That was my last experience with method acting, where you're reprogramming your mind. You're actually playing around with your psychology. You teach yourself to like things and to dislike things. It is a really dangerous place when you get good at it. But once I had that experience, I was like, 'No more method acting.' For Six Degrees, I wanted to perform well so badly that I was spending six and seven and eight days in character before shooting, and you have to be careful with that." Jeff Kravitz / Getty Images

12. Blades of Glory with her then-boyfriend Craig Cox and his brother Jeff  she even wrote a role for herself to play. But when it came time to pitch the movie to producers, Craig and Jeff took Busy's name off the movie and sold it themselves. In her memoir, This Will Only Hurt a Little , Busy Philipps revealed that she cowrote the moviewith her then-boyfriend Craig Cox and his brother Jeff  she even wrote a role for herself to play. But when it came time to pitch the movie to producers, Craig and Jeff took Busy's name off the movie and sold it themselves.

She wrote, "I had a hard time recovering. It wasnt the script. It was that Id been so easily thrown out, like trash. I was in the way of their success, I guess? Collateral damage." She added that when she asked for credit on the movie, Craig and Jeff told her she was "crazy," and rumors spread that she "stole ideas" from them. She said, "In order for them to do this insanely shitty thing to me, they vilified me and told me I was crazy. The story became that I was the one who had tried to STEAL ideas from them, that I was ALWAYS just looking out for myself. THEY had come up with this AMAZING STORY, and I was the less-than-talented girlfriend trying to glom on to their talent and carve out a piece for myself. A piece that I didnt deserve. I had a hard time figuring out what was real. Dimitrios Kambouris / Getty Images for alice + olivia

Busy even ended up auditioning for the role she wrote for herself, but it went to Jenna Fischer. Luckily, word had gotten out about what really happened behind the scenes, and she ended up getting to hang out with Amy Poehler because of it all. She wrote, Amy Poehler grabbed me. Girl, she said. Seth Meyers told me the story of what those dudes did. FUCK EM! You rock and are so talented. Come here! Sit at our table!!'

Jon Kopaloff / FilmMagic / Getty

13. Melissa Explains It All, Melissa Joan Hart revealed that while she was on Sabrina the Teenage Witch, she was also experimenting with drugs in real life. Some were even offered to her by Paris Hilton. In her memoir,Melissa Joan Hart revealed that while she was on, she was also experimenting with drugs in real life. Some were even offered to her by Paris Hilton.

Tibrina Hobson / Getty Images

She wrote, "The one time I was offered coke, which happened to be by Paris Hilton, I turned it down."

Frank Trapper / Corbis via Getty Images

14. Open Book, Jessica Simpson revealed she had an Dukes of Hazzard. At the time, Jessica was married to Nick Lachey, and Johnny was married to Melanie Lynn Clapp. In her memoir,Jessica Simpson revealed she had an "emotional affair" with Johnny Knoxville that started on the set ofAt the time, Jessica was married to Nick Lachey, and Johnny was married to Melanie Lynn Clapp.

She wrote, "Sigh, Johnny. The boy from Tennessee, as I coded him in my diary. First off, we were both married, so this wasn't going to get physical. But to me, an emotional affair was worse than a physical one." Amy Sussman / Getty Images

She explained that Johnny was one of the people she could be her "deepest authentic" self with and that he laughed with her, instead of at her. She even admitted to writing him love letters while her husband Nick was passed out in bed next to her.

She said, "We wrote these flowery love letters back and forth, often at night with Nick passed out in the bed next to me. We talked about music, and I would listen to the Johnny Cash songs he suggested just to feel like we were still together." Michael Loccisano / FilmMagic / Getty

15. My Lucky Stars: A Hollywood Memoir, Shirley MacLaine wrote about the difficulties she endured while working with Debra Winger on the set of Terms of Endearment. Finally, in her book,Shirley MacLaine wrote about the difficulties she endured while working with Debra Winger on the set of

Vera Anderson / WireImage

She wrote of an instance where Debra told her where placement marks were so she knew where to stand during the scene. A little annoyed, Shirley responded by saying, "I heard you, I know marks when I see them." Shirley said Debra responded like, "'Good, How's this for a mark?' [Then] she turned around, walked away from me, lifted her skirt slightly, looked over her shoulder, bent over, and farted in my face."

Archive Photos / Getty Images
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) mocked Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) for reading a long list of special interests at a House oversight committee hearing on Wednesday. The Democrat later posted the exchange (which you can watch below), writing, You cant make this stuff up.

The hearing on third-party litigation funding had Democrats arguing that outside backing of lawsuits allowed plaintiffs to take on big corporations while testimony from Johnson & Johnson called for more disclosure on the identity of those financing lawsuits.

Mace gave a nod to organizations that reached out for the meeting.

One last note of business. Id like to say thank you to the many groups and organizations that reached out in anticipation of this hearing today with letters outlining their stances on the issue, Mace said.

Id like to enter into the record letters to the committee from the American Tort Reform Association, American Property Casualty Insurance Association, the Advanced Medical Technology Association, the Institute for Legal Reform, the International Legal Finance Association, National Association of Manufacturers, Jerry Theodorou at the R Street Institute. Without objection, so ordered. ... I would now like to yield five minutes to Ms. Ocasio-Cortez.

I thank [you] for the listing of all the special interests involved in addition in this hearing, Ocasio-Cortez sniped.

Mace: I would like to say thank you to many organizations that reached out in anticipation of this hearing today..



AOC: I thank you for the listing of all the special interests involved in this hearing pic.twitter.com/9kZjWO5uXR  Acyn (@Acyn) September 13, 2023

Rim shot!

Ocasio-Cortez then used the litigation-funding focus to call out the high court.

When I first heard that the Republican side was going to be calling a hearing on third-party influence in our courts, I was so excited because I thought, finally we are going to address the biggest scandal in American democracy that we are currently having right now, which is the extraordinary corruption and wholesale purchase of members of the Supreme Court, Ocasio-Cortez said.

And I also find it amusing that we just heard from the Republican side, Ucchh, why do we want to talk about this? she added. Because women have lost the right to choose, because Indigenous people have lost rights, because minorities have lost rights, because working people across the country have lost rights due to this level of corruption.

For a longer look, fast-forward to 2:50:16:

Ocasio-Cortez and Mace have a combative history. They also beefed when Mace questioned the Democrats personal account of the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot.

Related...
On February 19, 1991, R.E.M. released Losing My Religion as the first single from their eagerly-anticipated seventh album, Out Of Time. Given that the Athens, Georgia quartet had already decided not to tour the record. their label, Warners, was more than a little anxious about the choice of the mandolin-led song as a lead single, but Michael Stipe 's band were known for their integrity and authenticity, and ultimately the label stepped back and trusted the group's instincts.

They were rewarded with a global hit single, and R.E.M.'s highest-ever US chart placing when the song reached number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100: Out Of Time would go on to sell more than 18 million copies worldwide.

In a new interview with Vulture, bassist Mike Mills admits that the band themselves were surprised that radio embraced the single to the extent that it did.



"That was supposed to be a warm-up track for the radio to get to Shiny Happy People or whatever the next single was," he recalls. "Nobody would expect a five-minute song with no chorus and a mandolin being the lead instrument to be played on the radio at all - much less become a worldwide number-one hit. It was just crazy. Anybody that says they saw that coming is lying to you."

"I remember the strangest time. We were once in Paraguay well into the jungle. We were going to help sign over 500,000 acres to the Indigenous Ashe people of northern Paraguay. We were still getting reception from the local radio station and Losing My Religion came on. That was pretty surprising. Thats when we knew we had a worldwide hit."



Earlier this year, the four members of R.E.M. each submitted a list of their ten favourite songs by the group: no-one chose Losing My Religion. Which is not to say that the group weren't fans of the song, collectively, and had little time for moaning old school fans who considered it a 'sell out' to radio. After it became a hit, Peter Buck told Rolling Stone, "The people that changed their minds because of Losing My Religion can just kiss my ass."
Cindy Crawford Says She 'Never Even Thought About Modeling' in Sneak Peek of New Supermodel TV Series

The 57-year-old supermodel opens up about the early days of her career in an exclusive sneak peek of the Apple TV+ docuseries, 'The Super Models'

Apple TV+ has given PEOPLE an exclusive sneak peek at its upcoming four-part docuseries The Super Models, featuring Cindy Crawford revealing how she went from her small town in Illinois to the glamorous catwalks of New York and Milan.

"I never even thought about modeling," Crawford, 57, admitted in the 25-second clip that begins with a photo of the supermodel from the 1980s when she first began her career.

"I didn't even know it was a real job. I didn't know how I would get from DeKalb, Illinois, to a magazine," Crawford said as she sat in a white director's chair, dressed casually in a black dress and matching leather jacket.

The clip then cuts to footage of Crawford performing commercial work in the '80s. "My dad really didn't understand that modeling was a real career," she said. "He thought modeling was like another name for prostitution. So they came with me to my very first modeling appointment."

Apple TV+ "The Super Models" will premiere on Apple TV+ on Sept. 20.

Related: Why Supermodel Naomi Campbell Says She Was 'Nervous' to Take the Runway at NYFW (Exclusive)

In Apple TV+'s upcoming documentary series The Super Models, modeling legends Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington and Linda Evangelista come together to revisit their iconic careers and share an unprecedented look at the world of elite modeling and their life beyond the catwalk. The series was co-directed by Roger Ross Williams and Larissa Bills.

"As the fashion industry continues to redefine itself  and womens roles within it  this is the ultimate story of power and how four women came together to claim it, paving the way for those to follow," explains a press release for the series.

Vinnie Zuffante/Michael Ochs/Archives Cindy Crawford, pictured at the MTV VMAs in 1991, began her modeling career in the 1980s.

Related: Linda Evangelista and Son Augustin Wear Matching Suits at 2nd Annual Caring for Women Dinner

"Already forces in their own right, the gravitas they achieved by coming together transcended the industry itself," it adds. "Their prestige was so extraordinary that it enabled the four to supersede the brands they showcased, making the names Naomi, Cindy, Linda, and Christy as prominent as the designers who styled them. Today, the four supermodels remain on the frontlines of culture through activism, philanthropy, and business prowess."

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.



Crawford, Campbell, 53, Turlington, 54, and Evangelista, 58, are executive producers on the series, alongside Brian Grazer, Ron Howard, Sara Bernstein, Justin Wilkes, Barbara Kopple, Williams and Geoff Martz.

In 1990, the models featured in the documentary also starred in George Michael's "Freedom! '90" music video, which Evangelista told British Vogue she didn't want to be in. "George was instrumental in gathering me for the video  the video I did not want to do," she revealed. "But once I was here I had a blast. I would've regretted not doing it."

The Super Models will premiere globally on September 20 on Apple TV+.



For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
Keith Olbermann has a message for Bill Maher  and it's far from friendly.

One day after the Real Time host revealed plans to continue his show amid the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike, the political commentator got candid about his thoughts on the decision.

"Without writers, the new weekly SCAB edition of Real Time With Bill Maher will be 83 seconds long," Olbermann wrote in a social media post. "As somebody who's known you since 1978: F--- you, Bill, you selfish and unfunny scumbag."

Without writers, the new weekly SCAB edition of "Real Time With @billmaher" will be 83 seconds long https://t.co/EkMqgeHGYL



As somebody who's known you since 1978: Fuck you, Bill, you selfish and unfunny scumbag  Keith Olbermann (@KeithOlbermann) September 14, 2023

Maher's decision makes him the first late-night host to return to work since the strike began in May. Others have given no indication of plans to resume amid the writers' strike, with Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers, and John Oliver instead collaborating on the podcast, Strike Force Five. Proceeds from their show go to their out-of-work staffs.

Bill Maher and Keith Olbermann

Kevin Mazur/Getty; Virginia Sherwood/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Bill Maher and Keith Olbermann

Maher announced the news in a Wednesday Instagram post, writing, "Real Time is coming back, unfortunately, sans writers or writing."

He continued, "It has been five months, and it is time to bring people back to work. The writers have important issues that I sympathize with, and hope they are addressed to their satisfaction, but they are not the only people with issues, problems, and concerns."

He wrote that while he hoped the strike would be finished by Labor Day, "that day has come and gone, and there still seems to be nothing happening."

"I love my writers, I am one of them, but I'm not prepared to lose an entire year and see so many below-the-line people suffer so much," he said, adding that he would "honor the spirit of the strike" by going forth without his usual monologue, desk pieces, New Rules segment, or other editorials.

bill-maher

HBO Bill Maher

Maher finished his post by writing, "The show I will be doing without my writers will not be as good as our normal show, full stop. But the heart of the show is an off-the-cuff panel discussion that aims to cut through the bullshit and predictable partisanship, and that will continue. The show will not disappoint."

This news comes after days of Drew Barrymore drawing backlash for continuing her daytime talk show without her three WGA writers. Taking a similar approach to Maher, Barrymore purports to support the strike in spirit by "not be performing any writing work covered by the WGA strike," per a CBS spokesperson. In her own statement, Barrymore added, "We are in compliance with not discussing or promoting film and television that is struck of any kind."

Like Maher, Barrymore has been heavily criticized by other industry members, including her own writers. The Jennifer Hudson Show and The Talk are also set to return, while other talk shows including The View, and Live With Kelly and Mark, continued production throughout the strike without their writers.

As of today, the writers have been on strike for 136 days, marking one of the longest screenwriter strikes in history. The longest to date stands at 154 days, from March 7-Aug. 7, 1988.

Sign up for Entertainment Weekly's free daily newsletter to get breaking TV news, exclusive first looks, recaps, reviews, interviews with your favorite stars, and more.

Related content:
This aerial photo taken in April 2020 shows the vehicles carrying a batch of components from Chinese green power developer Universal Energy for the 50 MW wind power project in Kostanay of Kazakhstan. (Xinhua)

SHANGHAI/ALMATY, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Braving the scorching sun, engineer Rinat Turganbekov patrolled through glittering solar panel arrays that adorn the expansive plains of Kazakhstan.

The Kapshagay photovoltaic power station, one of the largest single solar power projects in the Central Asian country, is a part of the China-Kazakhstan green energy cooperation initiative, jointly invested and constructed by the Chinese company Universal Energy and Kazakh counterparts.

As a seasoned member of Universal Energy Kazakhstan, Turganbekov has witnessed firsthand the remarkable transformation brought about by solar power stations, providing local residents with green and affordable electricity.

Meanwhile, along the Belt and Road, a series of cooperative efforts aimed at sustainable development are writing a new chapter of mutual benefit and win-win cooperation.

"Chinese companies have brought significant changes to my life," said the 36-year-old, who studied in Tianjin and is proficient in Chinese.

Initially, he worked as a translator at the company. During his tenure, his Chinese colleagues encouraged him to venture into project coordination.

During his five years at the Chinese company, the Kazakh engineer has participated in several construction projects. In 2020, the Kaskelen photovoltaic power station project, included on the list of key projects of China-Kazakhstan capacity and investment cooperation, was in a crucial phase.

Due to pandemic-related restrictions, Chinese employees could not return to Kazakhstan on time. Turganbekov, along with the Kazakh team, worked remotely with their Chinese counterparts, meticulously overcoming every challenge. Eventually, their efforts paid off, culminating in the successful and timely completion of the project.

"When I look back, I still get excited. We collaborated across time zones, and everyone's hearts were in the same place, striving for the same goal," Turganbekov said.

With the combined efforts of the Sino-Kazakh team, the Kaskelen photovoltaic power station was successfully connected to the grid and commenced power generation in June 2020, generating 80.8 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually and reducing local carbon emissions by 80,800 tonnes.

Meanwhile, green energy cooperation along the Belt and Road brings not only clear skies, lucid waters and lush mountains, but also newfound green wealth for people.

Over these five years, Turganbekov has seen his income increase and he managed to purchase a house in the major city of Almaty. "Chinese companies have helped me grow and have improved the lives of our local people," he said.

According to Turganbekov, conventional power generation methods such as coal power tend to incur relatively high costs, consequently leading to elevated electricity prices for citizens.

Green energy not only facilitates Kazakhstan's transition towards sustainable development but also furnishes local residents with access to cost-effective electricity. "Particularly in the southern regions, there has historically been a deficit of electricity, necessitating transmission from the northern regions. However, with the establishment of solar and wind power stations by Chinese enterprises, residents in the southern regions no longer contend with electricity shortage."

Nan Yi, chairman of the Chinese energy company, revealed that since 2015, the company has been investing in new energy projects in Kazakhstan, including photovoltaic and wind energy stations. To date, it has completed the construction of six new energy stations with a total capacity of 380 megawatts, all listed on the key projects list of China-Kazakhstan capacity and investment cooperation.

These projects reduce carbon dioxide emissions by one million tonnes annually, while meeting the electricity needs of approximately 600,000 local households. As of now, the cumulative electricity generation of the new energy stations invested, constructed and operated by the company in Kazakhstan has surpassed 1.7 billion kilowatt-hours, equivalent to reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 1.7 million tonnes.

"Nowadays, more and more people are joining hands with each other to build the Belt and Road," Nan said. With a growing number of Chinese companies' present in Central Asia, solar power and wind power stations have gained widespread recognition.

Both state-owned and private enterprises are actively "going global," promoting standardized construction in local regions, and providing support for local development, Nan added.

According to the senior executive, through cooperation along the Belt and Road, the strengths of both China and its foreign partners can be better leveraged, ultimately achieving mutual benefits.

"The 'win-win example' in Kazakhstan has made it easier for us to explore the Uzbekistani market. According to the agreement, Universal Energy will invest in and construct a 500-megawatt wind power project in the country. In the future, we will also work with more countries along the Belt and Road," Nan said. 

This aerial photo taken on April 24, 2020 shows a vehicle carrying a component from Chinese green power developer Universal Energy for the 50 MW wind power project in Kostanay of Kazakhstan, passing the Sayram Lake in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua)

This aerial photo taken on April 24, 2020 shows the vehicles carrying a batch of components from Chinese green power developer Universal Energy for the 50 MW wind power project in Kostanay of Kazakhstan, passing the Sayram Lake in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua)

This photo taken on Oct. 22, 2020 shows a 50 MW wind power project in Kostanay, Kazakhstan. (Xinhua)

This aerial photo taken on Aug. 14, 2022 shows a 50 MW wind power project in Kostanay, Kazakhstan. (Xinhua)

This photo taken on Feb. 25, 2022 shows a 50 MW wind power project in Kostanay, Kazakhstan. (Xinhua)

This aerial photo taken on April 24, 2020 shows the vehicles carrying a batch of components from Chinese green power developer Universal Energy for the 50 MW wind power project in Kostanay of Kazakhstan, driving on the Guozigou Bridge in Huocheng County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua)

This aerial photo taken on Aug. 14, 2022 shows a 50 MW wind power project in Kostanay, Kazakhstan. (Xinhua)
The Cesar Chavez High School mariachi band performs at El Concilio's annual Cinco de Mayo parade and festival in downtown Stockton on Sunday, May, 7, 2023.

Hispanic Heritage Month begins Friday and will go on through mid-October.

What does that mean? You'll have plenty of options and time to celebrate.

The monthlong event, through Oct. 15, celebrates and honors the history and influence of "American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America," the National Hispanic Heritage Month website states.

The dates are important.

The first day of National Hispanic Heritage Month is Sept. 15, the same day that Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua celebrate their Independence Day.

Mexico's Independence Day is Sept. 16. Chile celebrates theirs on Sept. 18 and Belize on Thursday, Sept. 21.

Starting in the middle of the month helps end the celebrations on Oct. 12. Known as Columbus Day in the United States, the day is referred to in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries as Dia de la Raza, honoring the countries and peoples conquered by Spain and other European nations.

Here are nine local events happening this Hispanic Heritage Month in Stockton.

Pachanga Presente at San Joaquin Delta College

Head over to Delta College on Thursday, Sept. 14 for a "Flag Parade and Pachanga," at noon.

This Pachanga is to "promote awareness and appreciation for Latine/ Hispanic/ Chicanx/ Afro-Latino culture and heritage among Delta students and staff," Delta stated in a flyer.

This event will kick off its "Latine Heritage Month 2023" calendar of five scheduled free events, all open to the public.

Those attending are encouraged to dress in traditional clothes, bring flags and represent their Latin American countries.

The event is sponsored by Puente, Chicanx Latine Faculty Task Force, Delta College Pride Coalition, DARTE and 93.5 KWDC Delta College Radio. Throughout the month 93.5 KWDC will air special programming.

Location: The Quad (by the Koi Pond), 5151 Pacific Ave. in Stockton

Hours: 12 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 14

Information: bit.ly/44W0uM2

Paletas Con Profes at San Joaquin Delta College

Stop by for a free paleta and get to meet some of Delta's College Latina and Latino faculty at the Puente Latinx Center Shima 133 at noon.

The event is sponsored by the Chicanx Latine Faculty Task Force, the La Raza Employees Association and Puente. The event is free and open to Delta College students.

Location: Puente Latinx Center Shima 133, 5151 Pacific Ave. in Stockton

Hours: 12 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 20

Information: bit.ly/3RkLa8I

Loteria with the Pride Center at San Joaquin Delta College

Play Loteria, win some prizes and learn more about what the Delta College Pride Center has to offer. Head over to Delta's College Pride Center Danner Hall 202B, on Thursday, Sept. 21.

This event is also free.

Location: Pride Center Danner Hall 202B, 5151 Pacific Ave. in Stockton

Hours: 1 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 21

Information: deltacollege.edu/event/loteria-pride-center

Latin Soul Fest

The Latin Soul Fest at Oak Grove Regional Park will have taco trucks, live music, and dancing. The music will start at 1 p.m.

Grab your lawn chairs and your cash for the food trucks and parking. Tickets are now on sale for $20. Parking is $6 cash only.

Location: Oak Grove Regional Park, 4520 W. Eight Mile Rd. in Stockton

Hours: 12-6:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23

Information: visitstockton.org/events/latin-soul-fest/

Fall Fiesta Fundraiser at the Children's Museum

Muralist Carlos Lopez of Stockton works on re-painting the 70-ft by 20-ft mural of dancing children on the front of the Stockton CHildren's Museum on Weber Avenue in downtown Stockton on Aug. 25, 2003. Lopez, who originally painted the mural 10-11 years ago, is refreshing the weather-worn mural.

The Children's Museum of Stockton will be hosting a fundraiser "Fall Fiesta," in support of the museum and to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

From the performance of Mariachi Chavez Musicians, Ballet Folklorico Raices Mexicana, to Mexican food, some margarita drinks.

There will also be a raffle and silent auction. Tickets for the event are on sale for $75.

Location: Children's Museum of Stockton, 402 W Weber Ave. in Stockton

Hours: 5:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23

Information: bit.ly/46f64KF

Hispanic Heritage Celebration at Prevail

Prevail which was formerly known as the Women's Center-Youth and Family Services is hosting a Hispanic Heritage Celebration on Sunday, Sept. 24.

Here you will find food, performances, art, and many resources. This is a free event for the community.

Location: Stockton Civic Auditorium-North Hall, 525 N. Center St. in Stockton

Hours: 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24

Information: facebook.com/PREVAILSJV/

Celebration of the Campesiono! at San Joaquin Delta College

Head over to the Campesino Forum at Delta College for a screening of the documentary Campesinos: America's Unsung Heroes & The Fight for the Campesino Forum.

There will be a Q&A panel discussion with the filmmakers. There will also be music by Delta's College Mariachi class and music by Mariachi Del Rio and much more.

This event is sponsored by Chicanx Latine Faculty Task Force, DMedia, and Puente.

Location: Campesino Forum, 5151 Pacific Ave. in Stockton

Hours: 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 5

Information: bit.ly/3ZjyVv9

26th Annual Indigenous Peoples' Day Celebration at San Joaquin Delta College

Veronica Villa casts her shadow on the ground as she performs with a group of Aztec dancers made up of dancers from, San Jose, Oakland, Colusa, Sacramento and Stockton who performed as a part of San Joaquin Delta College's Indigenous Peoples Day at the Delta campus in Stockton on Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022. The event celebrated the rich culture & history of First Nation peoples of this continent. The event was sponsored by the SJDCTA Social Justice and Equity Committee, the Associated Students of Delta College (ASDC), the Cultural Awareness Program (CAP), and the Chicanx/Latinx Faculty (CLF).

Native dancers and speakers will be part of the Indigenous Peoples' Day Celebration at Delta College.

This is a celebration of the "rich culture and contributions of Native peoples," Delta College said in a flyer. This event is sponsored by the Cultural Awareness Program.

Location: President's Patio (across from Goleman Library), 5151 Pacific Ave. in Stockton

Hours: 12-2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5

Information: bit.ly/3ZeHEyA

Hispanic Heritage Month Run

Head over to Lincoln Center on Tuesday, Oct. 3 and join in on the Hispanic Heritage Month Run. A 5K run or walk, with virtual and in-person options.

"Whether you want to show your Hispanic heritage pride, or celebrate Latino friends, neighbors, partners and community members  all are welcome to join," the runs website stated.

There will be free kids meals for those registered 15 years old and younger. The run is free for all. To register vist: runsignup.com/hispanicheritagemonthrun.

Location: Fleet Feet Stockton, 265 Lincoln Center in Stockton

Hours: 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6

Information: bit.ly/3sSVRVI

Contributing to this report, Marc Ramirez, USA TODAY.

Record reporter Angelaydet Rocha covers community news in Stockton and San Joaquin County. She can be reached at arocha@recordnet.com or on Twitter @AngelaydetRocha. Support local news, subscribe to The Stockton Record at https://www.recordnet.com/subscribenow.

This article originally appeared on The Record: Local Hispanic Heritage Month events you do not want to miss in Stockton
Day of the Dead, All Souls Day or Dia de Muertos, is one of the most important Mexican holidays. The Mexican traditions surrounding the Day of the Dead, which is celebrated in different ways throughout a handful of cultures, began centuries ago in the Aztec empire.

Mexicos indigenous peoples were having festivals to invite their dead loved ones back to the land of the living long before the Spanish showed up. But after the Spanish settled Mexico, those festivals became incorporated into the Catholic version of the holiday, All Souls Day.

A common misconception is that Dia de Muertos is a Mexican Halloween. But although the origin of Halloween is similar to the themes in the Mexican Day of the Dead, it is not similar to modern Halloween celebrations.

Heres how the Day of the Dead is celebrated across the world, who celebrates and the meaning behind the sugar skull.

When is Dia de los Muertos?

Day of the Dead is observed on All Souls Day, which has been celebrated on November 2 since the 11th century.

But in Mexico, Dia de Muertos celebrations typically start a few days before Halloween, on October 28. Each day within that time frame is attributed to people who died in different ways  like at a young age or in an accident. November 1 is set aside as a day to honor those who passed after leading a pure life, especially children.

Opinion: A white mom of Mexican American kids, Dia de los Muertos taught me about preparing for death

Who celebrates Day of the Dead?

Dia de Muertos is most widely celebrated in Mexico, where its developed into a huge moneymaker for the country, namely Mexico City. In the U.S. cities with a significant amount of Mexican residents  like some cities in California, New Mexico, Texas and more  have street fairs, parades and celebrations for Dia de Muertos. Here are other celebrations:

BREAD LOAFS IN ECUADOR: Worldwide, Catholics celebrate All Souls Day on the Day of the Dead. Ecuadors version of Dia de Muertos is called El Dia de los Difuntos, which means day of the deceased. Celebrations for Dia de los Difuntos are similar to Mexican celebrations, but with loaves of bread baked in the shape of dolls or babies called guaguas de pan.

KITES IN GUATEMALA: On November 1, Guatemalans celebrate the Festival de Barriletes Gigantes, or the Festival of Giant Kites. Guatemalas indigenous peoples believed that flying kites was a way to communicate with the dead. So on the Day of the Dead, celebrations in Guatemala include making a kite that honors special memories with your loved one or their favorite things and flying it high, in hopes that they will see it from the heavens.

CANDLES IN THE PHILIPPINES: The Philippines also honors the Day of the Dead. There, its called Undas and people bring flowers and candles to the graves of their loved ones who have passed.

CELEBRATIONS IN HAITI: In Haiti, the Day of the Dead traditions are melded with traditions from the Voodoo religion. The two-day festival includes rituals, dancing and singing and feasting. Some call on the spirits of their ancestors to honor and celebrate them and sometimes ask them for guidance in fertility to bring new life earth side.

An illustrated guide: What is the Day of the Dead holiday?

What countries celebrate Dia de los Muertos the most?

According to a 2018 report from Travel Agent Central, Dia de Muertos in Mexico brings in more than 7.5 million tourists from around the world every year, looking to experience the festivities and food that go with the holiday.

In 2022, Mexico News Daily reported that the country was estimated to bring in almost $2 billion in Day of the Dead tourism revenue.

Although Mexico has always celebrated the holiday, its become a much larger affair in recent years, following the release of a few popular movies about the Day of the Dead, like The Book of Life and Pixars Coco.

The 2015 James Bond movie Spectre, has a scene set among a huge Day of the Dead parade in downtown Mexico City, which wasnt previously a thing that the city did. But following the movies release, Mexico City started a Day of the Dead parade, which is an attraction for millions of people each year and usually held on the Saturday before the Day of the Dead holiday.

What decorations are used during Day of the Dead?

In Mexico, Dia de Muertos decorations are bright and colorful, since it is a happy holiday celebrating the spirits of loved ones returning to earth to visit their families. Mexican families make ofrendas, or altars adorned in marigolds that hold photos of their loved ones, traditional baked goods and their loved ones favorite earthly treats.

Marigolds are everywhere during the Day of the Dead festivities. Their yellow petals symbolize the sun to help guide the souls of the dead on their journey back home. Some accent their marigolds with babys breath to represent purity.

What foods are eaten on Day of the Dead?

Markets, bakeries and sweet shops sell pan de muerto, or bread of the dead, which is a round loaf with a circle and crossed bones on it, representing a skull. Decorated sugar and chocolate skulls are also a big part of the celebration.

What is the meaning behind the sugar skull?

A stark contrast from the spooky skulls associated with Halloween decorations, Mexican sugar skulls, or calaveras de azucar, are brightly decorated skulls. Each skull honors a loved one and is often decorated with their name.

Is it Dia de los Muertos, Dia de Muertos or Day of the Dead?

Technically, all of these are correct. Mexicans most commonly call is Dia de Muertos, because it is a direct translation for All Souls' Day. Dia de los Muertos directly translates to All of the Souls Day, so there's little difference.

Day of the Dead is also correct, it's just the direct English translation for Dia de los Muertos.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: When is Dia de los Muertos? Who celebrates the Day of the Dead?
The couple got married in Lake Como, Italy, on Sept. 14, 2013, a few days after legally tying the knot

Getty Chrissy Teigen and John Legend posing together in 2020

Chrissy Teigen and John Legend are celebrating a major relationship milestone: their 10-year wedding anniversary.



The couple, who first got legally married on Sept. 10, 2013 before cementing their union with a lavish ceremony in Lake Como, Italy, a few days later on Sept. 14, will be spending the upcoming weekend marking the occasion.



On her Instagram Story Thursday, Teigen teased that the 10th anniversary weekend is commmming with a snapshot of a poolside location.



The most perfect day, she also wrote, adding the hashtag "#johnXchrissy."



Chrissy Teigen/Instagram Chrissy Teigen shares a snapshot teasing her 10th wedding anniversary celebrations

Teigen, 37, and Legend, 44, first met in 2006 while filming the music video for the crooners single, Stereo, before making their red carpet debut together in 2008 at the Grammy Awards.



After four years of dating, the two got engaged in 2011 and then tied the knot two years later.



Since being married, the couple has welcomed four children together. Daughter Luna Simone Stephens was born in 2016 and was followed by younger brother Miles Theodore Stephens, who was born in 2018.



In 2023, the couple welcomed their third baby, daughter Esti Maxine Stephens, who was shortly followed by the arrival of their baby son, Wren Alexander Stephens.

Related: Chrissy Teigen and John Legend's Relationship Timeline

Over the years, Teigen and Legend have put their romance on display, from appearing in music videos together to sharing adorable moments of their relationship on Instagram.



In 2019, while celebrating their six-year wedding anniversary, the two went to Paris, where Teigen posted a hilariously candid photo of her sleeping on a chair while Legend was seen staring at a laptop.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.



Three years later, in 2022, Legend released a music video for the single, Wonder Woman, featuring Teigen, who was pregnant with Esti at the time.



"I married my Wonder Woman 9 years ago today. Happy Anniversary, my love," Legend captioned the video on Instagram, adding, "You never cease to amaze me."

Related: John Legend Cozies Up to Chrissy Teigen in 'Wonder Woman' Video to Celebrate 9 Years of Marriage

One day prior to their wedding anniversary, both Teigen and Legend shared a carousel of photos to the social media platform, with the couple in the outfits they wore to Beyonces Renaissance World Tour stop in Vancouver, Canada, as well as candid photos of their four children.



Once in a lifetime artist!!!! Teigen wrote on her post, noting that she was referring to Beyonce and not her husband, while Legend captioned his update with, Lately: Renaissance Tour  + Babies, babies, babies.

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
At Rooted Coffeehouse in Evans, coffee and food come second. Its owners wouldnt have it any other way.

We really mean it when we say, 'Coffee cultivating community,' Ali Kocher said. Thats been our catchphrase since the beginning and thats been the heart behind it.

Kocher is a married mother and a neonatal intensive care nurse. Her mother, Heather Needles, has been a stay-at-home mother to six children. After Needles husbands job took the entire family to Georgia in 2016, both women decided to create for themselves, and for eager customers, a coffee-flavored taste of home from their native rural Illinois.

A sign reading "Come as you are" hangs in Rooted Coffeehouse in Evans, Ga., on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023.

Coming from a really small town, Iife was really kind of quaint back home, so we were looking for something to do with ourselves, Needles said.

One thing we did notice is that coffeehouses were a little bit lacking in this space, where back home we did a lot of life in coffeehouses, Kocher said.

That was about seven years ago. The space is the sprawling Riverwood Plantation residential development, when the Publix-anchored Riverwood Town Center nearby was still attracting its earliest tenants. Rooted stayed at Riverwood, 3116 William Few Pkwy., ever since. A second location recently opened at Evans Towne Center, sharing retail space with dessert stop Alumni Cookie Dough.

Manager Cassidy Eckles makes coffee at Rooted Coffeehouse in Evans, Ga., on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023.

A few years after Rooted opened at Riverwood, a certain well-known Seattle-based coffeeshop with more than 16,000 locations worldwide moved a couple of doors down.

No matter how many coffeeshops pop up, and whatever catchphrases they use, its never going to change what were about and what we started, Kocher said. We havent changed.

I also think youve got Starbucks customers and youve got local coffeehouse customers, Needles said. The customer base is different. We have incredibly loyal customers here every day."

And we really believe that competition does make you better, Kocher added. It really encourages you to be creative and not stay stagnant.

Just like 'Grandaddy' makes: 'Southern inspired' restaurant pulls eager customers to Pollards Corner

Rooted customers who come for the coffee often stay for the hot sandwiches, smoothie bowls and gourmet toast. Needles and Kocher stick to the philosophy that foods they wouldnt eat or serve to their children dont go on the menu.

One of the most popular menu items is Rooteds acai bowl. Pureed acai palm fruit is topped with sliced banana, blueberries, strawberries and granola. Its so popular that we cant ever get rid of it, Kocher said.

Muffins sit in the pastry case at Rooted Coffeehouse in Evans, Ga., on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023.

Visiting Rooted for the first time recently, Medical College of Georgia student Abbie Hotchkiss had heard about the business a lot, and wasnt disappointed with the sweet ham sandwich she ordered.

Their sandwich was really good, she said. I think it was the best sandwich I ever had.

On a recent Wednesday afternoon, at least a half-dozen people occupied tables that in many other eateries would be empty at that time of day. Rooted strives to create a welcoming, inspirational environment for customers.

Thats how we teach our employees, Kocher said. When somebody walks into your coffeeshop, you dont know what theyre going through, so we leave people better than we found them. We dont just want to do that in life. We want our shop to do that. Really, its the heart of Rooted.

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Rooted coffeehouse serves up a calming sense of community
"The best strategy for me in the beginning was knowing I knew nothing," Sunny Anderson said of learning all she could about her gastrointestinal condition

Living Fully Campaign Sunny Anderson.

Sunny Anderson wants people to know "it's okay to talk about" ulcerative colitis.

The Food Network star, 48, recently opened up about living with the chronic and sometimes debilitating inflammatory bowel disease.

The chef says she first began experiencing symptoms in 1993. I had severe cramping and thought, because I'm a woman, it was just that-time-of-the-month cramping. I had urgency to go. I had some blood in my stool. I still thought that maybe even the blood in my stool was from something I ate."

She had just relocated to South Korea for her Air Force deployment and chalked up her symptoms to the change in lifestyle. I just thought that some of my symptoms had to do with moving and eating all this new food, Anderson says.



But over the next three months, the symptoms worsened. She eventually saw a gastrointestinal specialist.



When I made that appointment, the doctors were so cool, Anderson said. I told them everything that was going on with my body. I had no fear actually. I needed answers. I wanted answers as to what was going on. And we initially just started doing all of the testing that they wanted. Anything they wanted to do, I was down for it.



Living Fully Campaign Sunny Anderson.

Related: Food Network Star Sunny Anderson Calls Out 'Miserable' Online Bullies

She was surprised to be diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, which impacts approximately 1.25 million people in the United States. I had never heard of it," she says.

Anderson worked with her doctors to come up with a plan. Very early on, my doctors were really keen at telling me to keep a notebook of what I was eating and then how my body felt after I ate, she says.

I started noticing certain things that I wanted to do or really stay away from, or different ways I wanted to prepare food. That was when I was 19. I'm 48 now, so I don't even think about it. I just cook the way I cook, and thankfully it's worked out.



Related: Food Network Star Sunny Anderson Responds to Backlash Following Controversial Party City Ad

Living Fully Campaign Sunny Anderson.

After learning how to avoid triggers that exacerbated her UC flare-ups, Anderson came up with recipes that worked for her, many of which she shares on the website This Is Living with UC, which is a partnership with Pfizer to encourage people with UC to "Live Fully." Not only can UC affect a person's colon; its impact can extend to their mental, emotional, and social well-being.

For this reason, the campaign aims to provide comprehensive support and offer information and resources.

To Anderson, spreading awareness about UC and enhancing people's understanding of the disease feels like a "duty. While she's been in remission for more than 20 years, she wants to use the partnership as a way to bridge he gap between misinformation and knowledge.

When asked what advice Anderson would give to individuals who may be experiencing digestive symptoms but are hesitant to seek medical help, her advice is simple.

You're not alone. It's okay to talk to others about it, she says. There's nothing to be embarrassed about. The more people you can talk to about it, you'll find your community and feel a lot more comfortable getting it off your chest. And then also, other people will be educated by it.

I think the best strategy for me in the beginning was knowing I knew nothing and being okay with being dumb and asking all the questions. Anderson says. I think in general, with anything in life, people want to pretend that they know stuff or feel embarrassed that they don't know everything. And my thing was, give me all the information. Tell me every single thing I need to know about this so I can better navigate.

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
Workplace environments have become more casual in the last five years, and employees believe Generation Z workers are responsible.

A new study from Barclays LifeSkills, an initiative from Barclays Bank, has revealed that 71 per cent of workers in the United Kingdom believe the younger generation is changing the formality of language in the workplace.

The survey, which was published on Tuesday 12 September, predicts that formal phrases and sign-offs - such as Yours truly, Yours sincerely, and To whom it may concern - may be extinct from the workplace within the next 10 years.

Unsurprisingly, social media was cited as a reason for changing workplace language. While 39 per cent of people over the age of 55 believe that social media has had the biggest impact on changes in communication, just 24 per cent of people aged 18 to 24 agreed that social media is to blame for evolving language.

When it comes to popular email signatures, like Yours truly and Yours sincerely, over a third of UK workers surveyed described these phrases as old-fashioned. Instead, nearly half of Brits have exchanged these closings for Thanks! and Thanks so much because its deemed as more friendly.

While Ta! has also become a popular sign-off, 29 per cent of workers see it as being a bit too familiar. The phrase Hiya! has also divided opinion - with 42 per cent considering it friendly, 36 per cent as casual, and 26 per cent thinking of it as too familiar.

Perhaps a reason for the change in workplace communication is because online messaging applications are widely used in offices, especially as companies offer their employees the ability to work remote. Apps like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Google Chat offer users more options to express their feelings and share their individuality with emojis and GIFs.

Gen Z is nearly twice as likely to use these instant messaging platforms at work, compared to 54 per cent of workers aged 55 and over, who prefer to use email because its considered more professional. However, 40 per cent of Gen Z-ers believe that email limits their ability to demonstrate their personalities.

Our research shows that the next generation are clearly going to make their mark on the workforce when it comes to how we communicate, said Kirstie Mackey, head of the Barclays LifeSkills initiative. The shift to more personable language is a positive one, however its important to demonstrate an understanding of social etiquette in the workplace, which does differ from school or university.

Striking the right balance whilst still displaying your personality through your communications is key, she added.

Dr Laura Bailey, senior lecturer in English language and linguistics at the University of Kent, said: Changing norms in the workplace are reflected in the language younger employees use, and the way communication has changed in general. Email threads and instant messaging platforms have become blended into conversations where formal openings and sign offs might feel out of place.

For the older generation, letter-writing etiquette might be drilled in enough that it is instinctive in any written communication, she continued. Whereas for Gen Z, social media has driven linguistic change and sped up the spread of language trends.

Theres no question that Gen Z has already begun making an impact on the workplace, from making bigger demands for salary transparency to dressing more casually in the office. Most recently, a poll revealed that young adults may take two weeks to feel confident in a new job.

The survey of 1,000 18 to 25 year olds also found that Gen Z workers spend eight days worrying about their new role before they even start, expressing concerns about not fitting in with the team or not knowing what to do in their position. Many young workers turn to social media for advice when starting a new job or apprenticeship, with TikTok proving the most useful.

However, recent graduates entering the workforce had their college experiences interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic, leading to virtual classes and online internships. As a result, many Gen Z-ers are now taking courses in order to brush up on their work skills.

According to a report from the Wall Street Journal, companies, universities, and recruiters have begun training new hires on developing their soft skills - common interpersonal skills or traits that allow workers to interact harmoniously with others in the workplace. At these training facilities, Gen Z workers will receive training on how to maintain eye contact and take pauses during conversations. Other major companies are also informing young workers on appropriate office culture, such as workplace dress codes.
Rustin, the upcoming Netflix film directed by George C. Wolfe about civil rights activist Bayard Rustin, will receive the Icon & Creator Tribute for Social Justice at the 33rd annual Gotham Awards on Nov. 27, the Gotham Film & Media Institute announced Thursday.

Rustin, which was produced by former President Barack and Michelle Obamas Higher Ground, tells the story of how Rustin organized the 1963 March on Washington and his many other contributions to the civil rights movement. He was a close advisor to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and in his later years, lent his voice to LGBTQ causes. He was the first person to raise the awareness of the NAACP about the AIDS crisis. He died in 1987 and was awarded a posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013.

The Gotham Film & Media statement described him as one of the greatest activists and organizers the world has ever known. Rustin challenged authority, never apologized for who he was, what he believed or who he desired. And he did not back down. He made history, and in turn, he was forgotten by many.

In Wolfes film, he is played by Colman Domingo, who is joined by Chris Rock as Roy Wilkins, Aml Ameen as Martin Luther King Jr., Jeffrey Wright as Adam Clayton Powell Jr., CCH Pounder as Anna Arnold Hedgeman and Audra Macdonald as Ella Baker.

Debuting this year, the Icon & Creator Tribute recognizes cultural icons and the filmmakers who bring their stories to life.

For the 33rd annual Gotham Awards ceremony, were thrilled to recognize both the inspiring hero of the civil rights movement, Bayard Rustin, and the remarkable film Rustin from George C. Wolfe, Netflix and Higher Ground, Jeffrey Sharp, executive director of the Gotham Film & Media Institute, said in a statement. This beautifully crafted and moving film shines a light on the visionary contributions of a proud gay Black man on the heels of the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington.

Renowned filmmaker, theater director and playwright Wolfe is a five-time Tony winner who has directed 17 Broadway productions, including Angels in America: Millennium Approaches in 1993. His 2020 Netflix film, August Wilsons Ma Raineys Black Bottom, starring Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman, was nominated for five Academy Awards and won two. In 2005, he won a DGA Award, four NAACP Image Awards and a National Board of Review Award for Lackawanna Blues, which also earned him an Emmy nomination.

The 33rd Gotham Awards will take place in person at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City. Nominees will be announced on Oct. 24. The 2023 Gotham Awards submissions are open now.

Netflix premiered Rustin at the Toronto film festival and will begin streaming it in November.

The post George C. Wolfes Rustin to Receive Icon & Creator Tribute at Gotham Awards appeared first on TheWrap.
Howie Mandel has opened up about what he thinks has made his decades-long marriage to his wife, Terry Mandel, work.

On Tuesday 12 September, the Americas Got Talent judge said that the two of them have a non-conventional way of speaking to one another during an interview with People. My wife doesnt speak or understand a word of English, so thats what works for us, he joked. I dont know how to say I am funny in her language, but it works for us.

Communication is overrated, Mandel continued. Ive been married for 43 years and we havent said a word to each other.

Although the two 68 year olds have been married since 1980, they have known each other since high school at William Lyon Mackenzie Collegiate Institute in Toronto, Canada.

During an interview on the Today show, Mandel recalled he met his now-wife while in line to buy french fries. I actually borrowed money from her, he explained. I didnt know her, and I was short a couple of bucks for french fries and she lent me money. She was, like, 14 at the time and she lent me money. And Ive been paying her back ever since.

Mandel went on to say that his wife rejected his initial attempts to woo her, and, once they finally did go on their first date, it was cut short due to the weather. But that didnt stop him from eventually asking for her hand in marriage.

I was sitting in a deli, and Id bought a loose diamond, and I put it on the table and said: I got to go to the bathroom, but if you want to make a ring go ahead, he told Streets of Toronto.

After getting married in Toronto, the pair went on to have three children together: a son, Alex, born in 1989, and two daughters, Jackie and Riley, born in 1984 and 1992.

While speaking with People, Mandel also admitted that he isnt sure if his fellow AGT judges Simon Cowell, Sofia Vergara and Heidi Klum find him funny either.

I dont know that my fellow judges enjoy my humour or appreciate it for what its worth, but I think one day, years and years from now, theyre all going to sit back and go, oh, we should have relished this a little bit more, Howie told the outlet. You dont know what you got til its gone.

Madel isnt the only person opening up about their marriage secrets. Kristen Bell also recently revealed how shes made her marriage with Dax Shepard work after all these years. Bell, 43, married the Hit and Run actor in 2013, nearly six years into their relationship. The Hollywood couple will celebrate 10 years of marriage in October of this year.

Common goals, seek them out. Our kids are a common goal, right? she told ET Online. People are like: Oh, I wouldnt be able to work with my husband or wife or partner. For me, I want another common goal with him.

I respect him so much creatively. I have so much trust in him. Of course, I want him to be my director or my scene partner, Bell continued.
UPDATED: Sean Puff Daddy/Diddy Combs decision to give artists and songwriters the publishing rights that he owns on songs from his 1990s powerhouse label Bad Boy, confirmed last week, was surprising, to put it mildly, and possibly unprecedented in its scale. At a time when music catalogs are routinely selling for nine figures and awareness of publishings value is at an all-time high, the decision to reassign his rights on those songs  many of which were hits  to the artists and songwriters is highly unusual, even for a man whose net worth was estimated by Forbes last year to be nearly a billion dollars.

Its just doing the right thing, Combs told Variety last week. I think that we as an industry, and as a people, have to look in the mirror and make a shift forward. Its about evolving, leading by example and reforming an industry that needs it, in a world that needs reform.

More from Variety

Bad Boy Records, founded by Combs in 1993, is one of the most successful hip-hop and R&B labels of its era, with multiple platinum and gold releases by the Notorious B.I.G., Ma$e, Craig Mack, Faith Evans, 112, the Lox and Combs himself; later signings include Shyne, Danity Kane, French Montana and Janelle Monae. The label continues to be active, although not at the same pace as the 90s and 00s, with recent releases including Machine Gun Kellys 2022 outing Mainstream Sellout, Monaes The Age of Pleasure and, coming on Friday, Combs first solo album since 2006, The Love Album: Off the Grid.

Ill tell you one thing that I do want people to know, he continued. This was done, like, two years ago. Everything just got taken care of now. Its not a publicity stunt or anything like that.

Inevitably, some naysayers suggest its just that, coming on the eve of Diddys first solo album in 17 years and his Global Icon award and big look at Tuesdays VMAs, not to mention the labels 30th anniversary. Former Bad Boy rapper Mark Curry even scoffed at the move in an Instagram post, questioning the value of those songs nearly 30 years after their original release and arguably well past their prime. Its like him giving your girlfriend back after he had four kids with her, Curry said in one of his more delicate comments. However, it should be noted that although Curry was featured on several top-selling Bad Boy albums by other artists, he did not release any music on the label under his own name; he also leveled a series of bitter accusations against Combs in his 2009 memoir of those days, Dancing With the Devil.

Combs said he turned down multiple lucrative offers for the catalog, although just how lucrative is unclear: His longtime attorney Kenny Meiselas declined to comment on the range of the offers, and finance sources with experience in catalog sales told Variety they were unable to place even a ballpark value on the assets in question, owing to their complexity and the absence of a publicly available valuation.

I had assumed, even in the early days, that we were building a catalog that he was going to sell one day, Meiselas tells Variety. And at the height of the big catalog deals, I fielded a lot of offers for the catalog and I brought him some great offers, but he was resistant  he said, I have other plans.

Eventually he told me what he wanted  to reassign his rights to the songwriters, which sources say number at around 50  and the first written reach-out was in May of 2021.

That time was actually the peak of the gold rush, as news of mid-low nine-figure deals for song catalogs by Bob Dylan, Neil Young, members of Fleetwood Mac and others became public.

He had the opportunity to sell it for millions of dollars, Meiselas continues. He chose not to. He wanted to give it back as a thank-you for the writers who helped him get where he is. Its very simple: He did something nice because he wanted to do something nice. Meiselas conceded, without giving specifics, that Combs legal fees for the two-year process of reassigning those rights were not inconsiderable.

The move took place against a backdrop of significant recent philanthropic activity by Combs, including two separate $1 million HBCU-related donations last month. In a conversation with Variety last month about his mentor, the late Uptown Records founder Andre Harrell, Combs  a famously tough businessman  said, I always used to lead with tough love, but from missing Andre and taking everything I learned from him, now Im leading more with love.

Sources close to Combs said that he had not planned to announce the reassignment at all, but it became necessary when Camron, a longtime friend and collaborator of former Bad Boy star Ma$e, leaked the news in an Instagram post several days before it was confirmed by reps.

Asked by Variety whether he would have announced the move if the news hadnt been leaked, Combs seemed genuinely surprised by the question.

Um I dont know  I didnt get to that point!, he laughed. I was just going for the actions, so I wasnt even thinking about how everybody was going to take it. It was more [about] leading with action. Thats where Im at in my life: Dont worry about what nobodys saying. Dont talk the talk; walk the walk. Be accountable. Thats it.

Nearly all of the artists and songwriters involved in the reassignments have been contacted, agreed to terms and signed agreements, with some exceptions. There are some people we havent been able to find, but since the articles ran, one of them appeared and we were able to take care of that person, Meiselas says. He also noted estate complications with deceased artists Black Rob and Craig Mack that remain unresolved, but not for lack of trying.

Some artists declined to sign the agreement. In an interview with Only Stans that aired after this article first published, Aubrey ODay  a singer with Danity Kane, the all-girl group that starred in Diddys MTV series Making the Band  said she refused to take the offer because of the restrictions in a mandatory non-disclosure agreement. I have to release him for any claims or wrongdoings or actions prior to the date of the release, she said. I have to sign an NDA that I will never disparage Puff, Bad Boy, Janice Combs or Justin Combs music, or EMI, or Sony ever in public. (The catalog often referred to as Bad Boy publishing consists primarily of two publishing companies Combs created in the 1990s: Janice Combs Publishing and Justin Combs Publishing, named for his mother and one of his sons, respectively. Publishing for Bad Boy artists as well as Combs long has been administered by EMI, which is owned by Sony Music Publishing.)

Like Curry, ODay said her earnings from the catalog amounted to just hundreds of dollars and discouraged her bandmates from signing. However, on balance, the songs on Danity Kanes three albums have just a handful of writing credits for the bandmembers amid multiple cowriters  meaning their shares and earnings from the songs would be relatively small  although presumably the publishing deal extends to their other releases as well. (Danity Kane singer Dawn Woods later worked with Combs on the Diddy-Dirty Money project from 2009-2012.) Meiselas declined to comment on NDAs in his interview with Variety, which took place before ODays was aired.

A wild card in this move is Ma$e, one of Bad Boys most popular artists, who appeared frequently with Combs songs and videos. He excoriated Combs in social media posts in 2020, saying hed offered his former mentor $2 million for the rights to his publishing and was rebuffed. In the since-deleted, loosely (and at times confusingly) worded post, he alleged, u still got my publishing from 24 years ago in which u gave me $20k. However, Everythings cool and good now, Combs told Billboard recently. You know, were brothers and brothers fight. I love him and thats it; Mase was not available for comment.

Meiselas emphatically declined to comment on that situation, nodding to the long up-and-down relationship between the two over the past 25 years. But when discussing a separate topic earlier in the conversation, he said that was the sort of thing Combs didnt do. Other sources say that Combs was more generous, or at least honest, with credit than many other songwriter-producers in the era, who either give less-powerful songwriters or producers a fee instead of royalties, and/or no credit at all. Sources also emphasize that Bad Boy artists and songwriters were not required to sign with Combs publishing companies; many did not.

While the music industry is rife with tales  most of them true  about wily businesspeople taking lasting advantage of artists and songwriters who were naive, uneducated, receiving unfavorable legal advice (if they had attorneys at all), or so hungry for a deal that they did not exercise proper caution, sources say that Combs deals during the 1990s were relatively basic and customary.

Reps for Sony and the National Music Publishers Association declined Varietys requests for comment on Combs reassignment.

A lot of people dont really understand the impact of it, but thats cool, Combs concluded. Its not really about that. Its just about moving forward and being love, he said, referencing the title and theme of his new album.

Now dig into a data-fueled VIP+ subscriber report 

Read the Report

Best of Variety

Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.
A woman with an Iranian flag painted on her cheek and flase tears of blood raises her fist during a solidarity march for Mahsa Amini's death in Toulouse (France) December 3rd 2022.

Brave faced, sure footed, unveiled. That's certainly how the whole world will remember Iranian women and girls after a long year of protests fueled by the death of Mahsa Jhina Amini. The 22-year-old woman was killed by the hands of Iran's morality police on September 16, 2022. Her alleged fault: not wearing the mandatory hijab.

By waving their headscarves, dancing and singing on the streets, Iranians challenged the Islamic Republic on its most contentious matters and called for greater womens rightsand it wasn't without consequences. Over 500 got killed and many injured during the rallies, with security forces reportedly shooting at the faces and genitals of female protesters. At least seven men have already been executed so far, and others are at risk of the death penalty (including a 19-year-old man) for taking part in the protests. Many more were arrested in subsequent months for promoting propaganda against the regime, including Amini's lawyer who's facing charges in court at the time of writing.

Social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook have been a vital hub to quickly grab international attention to what's now known as the Woman, Life, Freedom movement. A wave of solidarity demonstrations have spread outside the country's borders, in fact, with new rallies set to commemorate the one-year anniversary of Amini's death this week.

The world is finally watching. Nonetheless, the Iranian government has no intention to back down just yet. Mahsa Amini's memory still haunts the regimeand, as the anniversary of her death approaches, authorities are doubling down.

 Confirmed: An internet disruption has been registered in #Iran for the second night in a row from ~1:00 am local time; Network data show connectivity falling down to 71% of ordinary levels  pic.twitter.com/LVQkXiEqvgSeptember 10, 2023

See more

Arbitrary arrests, snap checkpoints and enhanced protection around government buildings seems set to be the groundwork across the streets of Iran. Strict online surveillance, internet throttling and shutdowns reportedly are how such measures will reverberate in the online world.

UK-based internet watchdog NetBlocks confirmed a series of internet disruptions starting on September 8. These probably come with the intent of hindering the preparation of new mass rallies inside the country. It follows months of regular internet blackouts during Friday prayers which made Iran infamous as the biggest perpetrator of internet shutdowns in 2023 so far.

Citizens have been turning to VPN services en masse to bypass restrictions and keep posting the brave actions of those challenging the regime. At the same time, Iran also boosted its online surveillance tech capabilities to strengthen its grip on people. Now, after one year of restless fighting, where does technology stand? Is this more of a tool for empowering or repressing citizens?

Building a movement

"We [women] are invisible in Iran. If we don't cover ourselves, we don't exist. But through my social media, people took their visibility back. Social media is like my weapon because we dont have freedom of expression in Iran."

Iranian political journalist and women's right activist Masih Alinejad used these words to describe her work after being nominated 2023 Woman of the Year by Time magazine last March. Exiled from the country since 2009, Alinejad was the first to harvest the power of Facebook in 2014 to give a voice to ordinary women in Iran fed up with compulsory Hijab rules. How? Simply by inviting women to post a picture of themselves without the contentious veil.

The My Stealthy Freedom page grew quickly, soon becoming the largest civil disobedience campaign to challenge mandatory hijab laws in the Islamic Republic. Alinejad kept promoting new social campaigns in the form of hashtags across all the major platforms, including #MyFobiddenVoice (inviting women to sing in publicsomething which is illegal by law), #MenInHijab, #MyCameraIsMyWeapon and #WhiteWednesdays.

The latter, which called for women to wear white shawls or no veil at all on Wednesdays, grew into a bigger resistance movement by late 2017. From screens, the fight jumped directly into the streets. International attention started to gain momentum, too.

Azam Jangrevi, Information Security Analyst and womens rights advocate, joined the Girls of Revolution Street movement in 2018. Following the footsteps of Vida Movahed, known as the First Girl of Enghelab Street, she climbed an electricity transformer box and waved her headscarf to the sky. After being arrested and put in solitary confinement for 10 days, she managed to flee Iran for Canada during her temporary release and escaped a three years sentence for "promoting indecency and wilfully breaking Islamic law."

Jangrevi experienced in first person the power of a movement born from behind social media feeds, paying the consequences for daring to keep the fight up across the streets. Yet, she feels much has changed since then.

Jangrevi told TechRadar: "When I protested against mandatory hijab, the number of people who joined me was small. Although, many sympathized with us, we were alone and a collective movement did not form. However, since last year, a collective movement has emerged. The general attitude of society and the world towards women's rights in Iran has changed since then."

The hashtags #MahsaAmini and its Persian version broke a historic record in the first week of protests after being retweeted more than 40 million times. That's about 10 times more than the trendiest hashtags on Twitter. #WomanLifeFreedom, #IranProtests and #IranRevolution are still widely used in and out of the country to keep giving visibility to the movement.

Tech as a tool of control

The Woman, Life, Freedom movement marked a historic time for Iran. The illiberal laws and harsh punishments that both Iranian women and political prisoners endure are a taboo no more. The world is talking about these issues. Citizens aren't afraid of challenging those in power. Yet, Iran's government keeps working hard to squash these efforts as much as it can.

"In Iran, womens rights are severely restricted, and female activists are not safe. They can be easily arrested, and many of their rights can be taken away from them. For instance, they can be banned from leaving the country, lose custody of their children, have their drivers license revoked, or lose their job," explained Jangravi.

So far, the Islamic Republic has had a pretty careless attitude towards growing international pressure. Over the last 12 months, there have actually been a surge of reports about the closure of public spaces or offices amid the "identification of women not adhering to hijab regulations within their premises," reported Jangravi for human rights advocacy group, Article19.

From AI, CCTV cameras and facial recognition technologies, to social media tracking and mobile spying systems: authorities have been increasingly using different tools and technologies to intimidate, persecute and punish women and other dissidents. "They have purchased advanced cameras and software technologies for surveillance purposes. They also have different cyber groups that use various methods to hack activists, such as phishing email campaigns that hack activists to access their information," Jangravi told TechRadar.

A new, draconian proposed law known as "Hijab and Chastity Bill" is now sparking new fears. Currently being considered in Parliament, the 70-article bill seeks to introduce new ways to identify transgressors and punish them with up to 10 years in prison for defying the country's mandatory veil. According to Jangravi, this proposed law also opens up even more concerns over privacy violations and state surveillance. "If the authorities have the ability to recognize faces, women may be exposed to more dangers and threats," she said.

Iran's government does not use technology for the sole purpose of spying on citizens. Authorities know very well the internet is the main battlefield which needs to be controlled. A space that empowers citizens to get together and organize actions, but it also ensures the flow of information can reach outside the country's borders.

VPN provider Surfshark counted a total of 46 internet disruptions since 2015. Among these, 35 were related to protests and many of them were enforced following last year's unrests. From internet throttling, blackouts of mobile data and restrictions of all the major social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Telegram and WhatsApp), Iranians living in the Zahedan region have regularly been kept in the dark every Friday during prayers ever since.

Iran VPN downloads skyrocketed as a result. A virtual private network is, in fact, a security software that both encrypts internet connections and spoofs people's IP address locations. The latter ability is exactly what's needed to bypass online censorship and keep accessing social media platforms despite blocks. At the same time, Iran's government has also been working hard to heavily restrict the use of this precious tool. It earned a silver medal in VPN censorship this year, placing itself right after the infamous Great Firewall of China.

"Iran has invested a lot in filtering international secure messengers and created domestic media messages that are insecure and through which they have access to peoples data," explained Jangarvi. "To help people inside Iran, we need to provide safe VPNs, which requires global assistance."

That's exactly what New Iran, a subreddit group born following the 2022 protests, seeks to achieve. Its creators launched a crowdfunding project at the start of the year for both offering free VPN access and funding Starlink terminals across Iranian territories. Another non-profit organization composed by lawyers and IT specialists, Free Internet for Iran aims to train Iranians on how to circumvent online restrictions and secure their digital activities. Since January, VPN company TorGuard is actively backing up their efforts.

Digital technologies: threat or opportunity?

Technology has been a focal component, characterizing the fight inside Iran during these last long 12 months. From one side, citizens have increasingly used their smartphones strategically to challenge repressive laws and let the world know what life under the Islamic Republic is really like. On the other side, the government has refined their software and digital tactics to spy and suppress its citizens.

Talking on this point, Jangravi told us: "While digital technologies in all societies have the potential to improve life through access to information and services, in Iran it is a threat to peoples privacy and security. For example, last week a hacker group called GhostSec breached 20GB of data, including source code, relating to face recognition and motion detection systems from Iranian software company Fanap."

The Woman, Life, Freedom movement marked a historic time for Iran...The world is talking about these issues. Citizens aren't afraid of challenging those in power. Yet, Iran's government keeps working hard to squash squash these efforts as much as it can.

This is a sentiment shared by some internet users from inside the country, too. Many lamented how the already-poor internet quality dropped and government's control intensified over the last year.

Despite these risks, other users think the internet is a vital resource nonetheless. "Overall the existence of the internet has been in favor of protestors, without a shred of doubt," an anonymous respondent on Reddit told us. "Despite all that hardship, Iranians are still finding ways to connect and new VPN services emerge."

Jangravi shared with us some tips to keep in mind for the coming days. "My most important advice to people is to use secure VPNs. Additionally, they [people inside Iran] should set complex passwords for their accounts that are at least eight characters long and activate two-step verification for all their accounts. If they participate in protests, they should delete all information on their phones because there is a possibility of arrest. Lastly, its essential not to click on suspicious links."

Less than three days away from the first anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death, Iran's government looks determined to keep pursuing its crackdown, made up of violence, intimidations and persecutions. So are Iranians, though, who are willing to keep fighting, both online and offline, in the name of better civil rights and freedom.
A staff member introduces products to a visitor at the InnoMatch Global Tech-Matching Fair of the 2023 Pujiang Innovation Forum in east China's Shanghai Sept. 10, 2023. A global technology matching platform associated to the 2023 Pujiang Innovation Forum in Shanghai has offered 25 billion yuan (about 3.5 billion U.S. dollars) worth of innovation matching projects. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

Economic bullying and technological blockades have, in effect, accelerated China's innovation.

BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- A new Chinese smartphone was launched online as U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo visited China at the end of August. Huawei's Mate 60 Pro, testing by Bloomberg News showed, is capable of cellular speeds "on a par with 5G devices like Apple Inc.'s latest iPhones."

Though a gap still remains between China's chip-making capabilities and those of the world's most advanced, China is catching up.

Such a development seems to fulfill warnings from U.S. chipmakers that sanctions wouldn't stop China, but would spur it to redouble efforts in finding alternatives to U.S. technology.

Over the years, Washington has been preventing China's access to cutting-edge technology by hook or by crook. It rolled out a chip act, a thousand-page protectionist document; the groundless accusation of "China stealing intellectual property" was again hyped up; and limiting U.S. investment in China's high-tech sectors was among its latest perilous moves.

If there is any validity in these rule-defying attempts, they only prove that innovation is becoming all the more important in today's world. To China, it is front and center in securing its sustainable development.

Hunkering down, China has been trying hard. Official data show that China's spending on research and development totaled 427.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2022, up 10.4 percent year-on-year, a double-digit growth seen annually since 2016.

The country, currently the largest electric vehicle (EV) market in the world, is embracing an EV boom. The overall exports of China's EVs, lithium and solar batteries, in the first half of the year, climbed by 61.6 percent compared with a year earlier.

Artificial intelligence is also gaining traction. Four Chinese tech firms including Baidu Inc and SenseTime Group just debuted their AI chatbots to the public as the government greenlights AI products to widen their use.

Economic bullying and technological blockades have, in effect, accelerated China's innovation. Up against the critical need for tech self-sufficiency, as the New York Times said in a July article, "if any country can overcome such a challenge, it is likely to be China."

Yet wary of China making further headway, the tentacles of U.S. tech suppression are spreading even wider. Washington has been endeavoring to forge such exclusive cliques as the "CHIP4" and "U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council," wooing its allies under the guise of "security cooperation."

In the wake of such maneuvers that will spill over and jeopardize global technological cooperation, people's true responses speak for themselves.

South Africa said last month it would not be subject to the pressure of the United States and stop using Huawei's network communication devices.

Amid doubts among U.S. policymakers about the extension of the China-U.S. Agreement on Cooperation in Science and Technology, two Stanford professors sent an open letter to the White House standing up for renewal. Over 1,000 U.S. scientists signed the letter within a week.

In the same vein, China's progress isn't forged behind closed doors. By far it has established technological cooperation with more than 160 countries and regions. Some 200 international organizations and multilateral mechanisms have China as their member.

People attend the Huawei Cloud Summit Saudi Arabia 2023 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Sept. 4, 2023. The Chinese tech giant Huawei announced on Monday the opening of a cloud data center in Riyadh, as part of its efforts to expand its online service offerings in the Middle East. (Xinhua/Wang Haizhou)

The latest 2023 Nature Index shows that Chinese authors are an important part of natural science research in 2022. For the first time, it ranked top in the share of papers published in high-quality journals, overtaking the United States.

While enhancing its independent R&D capabilities, China allows the world to share in its technological progress. This is a potent testament to its pursuit of globalization and open economy, which, Modern Diplomacy notes, have been the two key factors in human progress over the past few decades.

It is true that China was once the "world factory," but as observers in the West find Huawei's and hence China's progress "better than expected," the country is well on its way to becoming a global hub for open innovation.

As the "world factory" turns into an innovation hub, "the next China is (still) China," said chairman of McKinsey China Joe Ngai.
"We pray the day will come when his memory will bring a smile to your lips before it brings a tear to your eyes," wrote Biden , who lost his first wife and daughter in a car accident. "It will take time, but that day will come"

Ash Adams for The Washington Post via Getty; Jim Watson-Pool/Getty Mary Peltola (left), Joe Biden

President Joe Biden offered condolences to Alaska Rep. Mary Peltola on Wednesday, shortly after the Democrat's office announced her husband, Eugene Peltola, had died following a plane crash.

"Jill and I send our love and prayers to Congresswoman Mary Sattler Peltola on the sudden death of her husband, Eugene 'Buzzy' Peltola, Jr., earlier today in a plane accident in Alaska," Biden, 80, wrote in a statement.

Biden revealed that he had just spent time with Rep. Peltola and her daughter, Kaeli, earlier this week as they honored troops stationed in Anchorage on the 22nd anniversary of 9/11. "On Monday, Mary flew back with me to Washington on Air Force One with the whole world ahead of her," he wrote. "Today, I spoke with her with that world shattered in shock and sadness."

Related: Gene Peltola, Husband of Alaska Rep. Mary Peltola, Killed by Plane Crash: He Lightened the Darkest Moments

The president added that the congresswoman and her husband also hosted Dr. Jill Biden back in May, when the first lady visited a rural high school in Bethel, Alaska.

"Spend even a minute with Mary and youll feel the love she has for her state and its people, and most of all, the love she has for her husband and their seven children," Biden said. "Buzzy was a devoted public servant and in the tributes coming from all over the state today, he is being remembered as a friend to all. But we know he was, first and always, the adored and devoted husband and father to a family now in pain."

Biden continued: "To the family  such a loss is cruel and unfair, and the first hours, days, and weeks will be the hardest. But we hope you remember that he will always be with you. And we pray the day will come when his memory will bring a smile to your lips before it brings a tear to your eyes. It will take time, but that day will come."

Alex Wong/Getty

Biden is no stranger to grief himself. His first wife Neilia and their 13-month-old daughter Naomi were killed in a car crash en route to go Christmas tree shopping in 1972, about a month after he won his first Senate race. Their two sons, Beau and Hunter, 4 and 3 at the time, survived the accident and sustained serious injuries.

Decades later, Beau would lose his battle with brain cancer in May 2015 at age 46.

"In the difficult time ahead, we keep you in our prayers," Biden wrote of Peltola, adding: "May God bless Eugene 'Buzzy' Peltola, Jr."



Related: Alaska Rep.-Elect Mary Peltola Says Staying Out of 'Partisan Pettiness' Helped Her Defeat Sarah Palin

Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Rep. Mary Peltola hugs her husband, Gene Peltola, at her swearing-in ceremony on Sept. 13, 2022

Peltola's office announced the news in a statement issued Wednesday morning.

"We are devastated to share that Mary's husband, Eugene Peltola Jr.  'Buzzy' to all of us who knew and loved him  passed away earlier this morning following a plane accident in Alaska," Peltola's chief of staff, Anton McParland, said in the statement.

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.



"He was one of those people that was obnoxiously good at everything," the statement continued. "He had a delightful sense of humor that lightened the darkest moments. He was definitely the cook in the family. And family was most important to him."

According to the statement, Rep. Peltola promptly returned home to be with her family, with the statement asking for privacy and adding: "Our team will continue to meet with constituents and carry on the work of the office while Mary and her family grieve."



For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
For the third time since May 2022, Pearl Jam touring member Josh Klinghoffer was again called on to play drums on short notice for the band last night (Sept. 13) in Fort Worth, Tx., while Matt Cameron recovers from a bout with COVID-19. The latters illness, in tandem with frontman Eddie Vedder battling the flu, apparently led Pearl Jam to postpone its Sunday show outside Indianapolis. Vedder was feeling better enough to take the stage tonight, but Camerons ongoing recovery meant he was unable to perform. Enter, Klinghoffer.

Unlike last year in Oakland and Fresno, Ca., when he shared drumming duties with Richard Stuverud and original Pearl Jam drummer Dave Krusen, Klinghoffer played the entire show in Fort Worth, which at 27 songs and 155 minutes was the longest of the bands short fall U.S. tour so far. Among the rarities were just the third performance of Vitalogys Satans Bed since 2016 and the second of Yields Pilate since 2018. Six songs were played from Yield, with the lone track on the set list released after 1998 being Mind Your Manners, from 2013s Lightning Bolt.

More from Spin:

Klinghoffer joined Pearl Jam as touring member in early 2020 in time to participate in rehearsals for a spring tour in support of the album Gigaton, but when those shows were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he had to wait until Sept. 18, 2021 to actually perform with the band in front of an audience at New Jerseys Sea.Hear.Now festival. The multi-instrumentalist previously served as the lead guitarist in the Red Hot Chili Peppers from 2009 to 2019, when he was replaced by longtime guitarist John Frusciante. Hes also a lifelong Pearl Jam fan who owns the drum kit former member Jack Irons used on the albums No Code and Yield.

Pearl Jam returns to Fort Worth on Friday and wraps its 2023 roadwork on Sept. 19 in Austin, Tx.

To see our running list of the top 100 greatest rock stars of all time, click here.
David Ermold and David Moore were awarded $50,000 each by a federal jury following a high-profile lawsuit that saw the Kentucky clerk held in contempt of court and briefly jailed in 2015

Timothy D. Easley/AP Kim Davis

A federal jury in Kentucky awarded a gay couple $100,000 on Wednesday, eight years after county clerk Kim Davis made headlines when she refused to issue same-sex couples marriage licenses on religious grounds.

David Ermold and David Moore were awarded $50,000 each by the jury, NBC News reports. Another couple who sued, James Yates and Will Smith, were not awarded any damages by U.S. District Judge David Bunning.

Related: Kentucky Clerk Is Handcuffed and Charged with Contempt of Court for Refusing to Issue Marriage Licenses to Same-Sex Couples

Timothy D. Easley/AP David Ermold and David Moore

The couples sued after Davis, an Apostolic Christian, refused to issue marriages to same-sex couples, citing her decision as being on Gods authority. After she was held in contempt of court by Bunning in 2015, Davis was sent to jail for five days.

She was eventually freed from jail when Bunning ruled that the court was satisfied the clerk's office was continuing to fulfill its obligation, because Davis' deputy clerks were issuing marriage licenses in her stead.

Though she was released in 2015, the legal matter has continued.

Last year, Bunning ruled that Davis violated the constitutional rights of the two couples who sued her with the trials held this week being used to determine the damages.

When Davis was freed from her five-day stint in jail in 2015, she became something of a poster child for social conservatives (including former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, who met with her upon her release).

Related: Jailed Kentucky Clerk Kim Davis Freed to Cheers  with Mike Huckabee by Her Side: 'I Refuse to Sit Silently as Our Constitution Is Torched,' He Says

Davis remained unrepentant following her jailing, telling reporters upon her release, Gods moral law conflicts with my job duties. You cant be separated from something thats in your heart and in your soul.

While her national profile has since diminished, Davis has remained a staunch opponent of same-sex marriage and, as NPR reports, even traveled to Romania in 2017 to advocate for a change to the country's constitution that would define marriage as only between a man and a woman.



In 2018, Davis, a Republican, lost reelection to the county clerk position to a Democrat.

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
It looks like you just cant escape certain court cases no matter how hard you try. Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Kyle Richards might be separated from husband Mauricio Umansky, but Mauricio is trying to separate himself from an ongoing court case.

Remember back in 2019, how innocent and fresh we all were? Our RHOBH news was filled with PK Kemsely running from the Bellagio. Then little gems about Mauricio started coming out. I know you havent forgotten about the $32 million Malibu mansion fiasco. You know, the one involving the African nation Equatorial Guinea? Welp, its still ongoing and Mauricio is still trying to be done with it. Radar has the details.

The doomed Malibu Mansion transaction

The walls around Mauricio started crumbling long before Morgan Wade entered the chat. His major legal issues came about when the feds requested Mo sell a seized Malibu home belonging to Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue.

Teodoro may or may not have been familiar with taking things that didnt exactly belong to him. He agreed to sell the home and hold $10 million of the proceeds to pay a fine from the Justice Department. The remaining funds would be donated to charity back in his homeland.

Mauricio was accused of conning an investor and the investors real estate agent out of the sale and turning around and selling the Malibu property a year later with a $37 million profit. Mo has filed court docs claiming the statute of limitations over this claim has expired.

Legal papers show the broker was working at UMRO Reality Corporation  (The Agency). He helped his partner Mauricio Oberfeld buy the Malibu property for the low, low price of $32 million.

Mauricio settled the case, or did he?

In 2019 Sam Hakim and his agent, Aitan Segal, went after Mauricio and Oberfeld with a suit filed in Los Angeles Superior Court for fraud and blatant self-dealing because they ALLEGEDLY did not disclose an offer of $40 million from the other broker to the seller.

Neither of the Mauricios want that smoke and are now requesting the judge to toss the combined lawsuits. Also, they believe the plaintiffs want damages on an assumption the property could have been renovated for a bigger profit.

This claim fails as a matter of law because it is barred by the statute of limitations, read Mauricios motion. Plaintiffs request for a constructive trust fails because it improperly seeks a speculative windfall from the redevelopment of the Property.

It will be interesting to see if Mauricio finally gets rid of this suit. Stay tuned.

TELL US  WILL MAURICIOS CASE BE DISMISSED? DO YOU BELIEVE HE COMMITTED FRAUD?

Kyle Richards, Mauricio Umansky

Just how supportive will Kyle be? Reality News Kim Stempel 5 hours ago

Morgan Wade, Kyle Richards

Kyle and Morgan grabbed coffee in Paris and once again the streets are talking. Reality News Allisun 1 day ago

Mauricio Umansky, Kyle Richards

Kyles keeping it vague. Reality News Michelle K Alejandro 2 days ago

The post Mauricio Umansky Attempting To Escape Trial in $32 Million Mansion Battle appeared first on Reality Tea.
A history buff told female viewers last month they'd be surprised how often men ponder the Roman Empire.

The topic launched a social media movement, as masses of men agreed it was regularly on their minds.

Many pointed to Roman architecture, military strategies, and the empire's parallels to the US.

A viral premise making the rounds on social media is alerting many wives, girlfriends, and partners to a shocking fact about the men in their lives: they are regularly thinking about the Roman Empire.

In August, Gaius Flavius, a Roman reenactor based in Sweden, shared an Instagram video to his 100,000 followers with an on-screen caption that read, "Ladies, many of you do not realize how often men think about the Roman Empire."

In the post, which received 1.6 million views, Flavius prompted the women watching to ask their husbands, fathers, and brothers about this, suggesting they'd be "surprised by their answers." He wasn't wrong, as over 1,100 comments responded, with many confirming the theory in disbelief.

The trend eventually made its way to TikTok. In the most viral clip with 5.1 million views, the author Sam Slupski, who uses they/them pronouns, recounted seeing the meme and querying their husband. "He said every single day," Slupski recounted, "and then we had a 45-minute conversation about the Roman Empire."

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Slupski told Insider it wasn't a shocking response given their husband is an international studies and political science major  but going viral has been "wild," they said. "It was just meant to be a silly goofy video."

On Wednesday, the TikToker Laine Bullinger filmed her boyfriend responding to the question in a video with 3.5 million views, in which he deadpanned "not a lot  twice a week." When she incredulously asked why, he responded, "They were the second most powerful empire."

In another video, TikToker Kira Kosarin asked her partner off-camera, who responded, "three times a day." The video received 3.7 million views.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Among real-life men surveyed by Insider, many also confirmed Flavius' theory.

Insider's Tanya Chen took to X, formerly Twitter, and asked male Roman history fans to make themselves known. Although multiple women came forward and said they, too, were interested in the topic, including culinary legend Nigella Lawson, the consensus was largely men. Several shared what they found so fascinating about the period of history, pointing to Roman architecture, parallels with the US, and military strategies.

One X user who said her husband thinks of the Roman Empire daily explained to her that it's because "it's always there. Always."

"I recently mentioned to another man that I enjoy the straight roads the Romans built," another X user shared, "and he countered that while enjoyably straight, that does still mean they can be a little boring after thirty or forty minutes of driving."

For those not regularly pondering the Roman Empire, it refers to a territory 2,000 years ago comprising regions of Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia that was ruled by emperors. Its innovations in culture, law, religion, and technology have had lasting impacts today.

Read the original article on Insider
It was a cold December night in 1972 when a 10-year-old boy who worked the fields as a migrant farmworker with his family looked up at the sky and dreamed of becoming an astronaut.

"I was watching the very last Apollo mission, kneeling down in front of a black-and-white TV, hanging on to the rabbit ear antennas to improve the reception watching Gene Cernan walking the moon," engineer and former NASA astronaut Jose Hernandez, 61, tells USA TODAY. "Then I went outside and I saw the moon, almost full, came back and heard the reporter Walter Cronkite narrate that whole moonwalk. That's when I was hooked. 'That's it,' I said, 'I want to be like that guy.'"

Jose Moreno Hernandez, born August 7, 1962, is an engineer and former NASA astronaut. Hernandez was assigned to the crew of Space Shuttle mission STS-128.

He fulfilled that dream in 2009 when he was assigned to the crew of the Space Shuttle mission STS-128.

Inspired by the NASA flight engineer's real-life story and based on Hernandez's memoir, the Amazon Prime Video biopic "A Million Miles Away" (streaming) follows him and his family of proud migrant workers on a decadeslong journey, from a rural village in Michoacan, Mexico, to the fields of the San Joaquin Valley, California, to more than 200 miles above the Earth in the International Space Station.

'A Million Miles Away' is about community, sacrifice

Starring actor Michael Pena ("Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan," "Martian") as a soft-spoken and determined Hernandez and Rosa Salazar ("Brand New Cherry Flavor," "Bird Box") as Hernandez's sharp-witted and supportive wife, "A Million Miles Away" is the embodiment of the saying, "It takes a village."

After all, it was a family affair reaching his goal, Hernandez says.

Directed and co-written by Mexican filmmaker Alejandra Marquez Abella ("Northern Skies Over Empty Space," "The Good Girls"), the film did a "masterful job at representing my story and ensuring that it wasn't just a story about one individual rising as a migrant farmworker to become a U.S. NASA astronaut but rather a community effort," Hernandez adds.

Everyone in Hernandez's circle made sacrifices to help him reach his dream.

Jose Moreno Hernandez's family

His parents stopped moving him and his siblings from field to field and put on the backburner their dream of building a home back in Mexico. His wife put her dream of opening a restaurant on hold so Hernandez could focus on NASA, and while he's preparing for his future, in a gut-wrenching scene, Hernandez also misses the birth of one of his children.

"It was my familys effort, my wife's contribution  everything," Hernandez says.

Heroes are 'never brown, never Chicano': Why Eva Longoria embraced the story of 'Flamin' Hot'

It was all or nothing in casting Michael Pena in 'A Million Miles Away'

When it came to casting for Hernandez's role, the former NASA astronaut and director Marquez Abella knew they wanted Pena, 47, to take the lead.

It was the middle of the pandemic when he accepted the role, but Hernandez says he and Pena connected virtually and he "got the gist of my personality, my sense of humor and that coupled with his trips with Alejandra to NASA ... it was a natural choice. He did a masterful job."

"Michael is a superstar; there was no other option," Marquez Abella says.

"He's such a hardworking and impressive actor," she adds. "It amazes me how he is on set and how he prepares for his scenes. His conviction, strength and work ethic are admirable."

'We never get this chance': 'Blue Beetle' director brings DC's first Latino superhero to life

But if it's not a pandemic, it's a strike as the director and real-life subject of "A Million Miles Away" promote the film without their leading stars.

"It's sad that when Michael gets a nice leading role, and Rosa, too, that they can't be here to enjoy the fruits of their labor," Hernandez says. "I'm trying to do the best I can to represent them now since they represented me on screen."

Marquez Abella adds, "It's a shame they're not here during such an important moment for the Latino community."

Actor Michael Pena, left, directed by Mexican filmmaker Alejandra Marquez Abella on the set of "A Million Miles Away."

More: Justina Machado on playing a murderous masseuse in Amazon's 'The Horror of Dolores Roach'

NASA engineer Jose Hernandez says 'put in the work and effort'

Hernandez was turned down eleven times for astronaut training by NASA before being selected in May 2004.

"Deep inside, I felt like, 'It was about damn time,'" Hernandez says of the process. "I felt I had done the work and the preparation to finally get selected but you have to understand over 12,000 people apply for 10-15 positions so the competition is very stiff but I still thought, 'It's about time.' Because I felt so ready many cycles before."

In February 2006, he completed Astronaut Candidate Training that included scientific and technical briefings, physiological training, flight training, and water and wilderness survival training. He then worked on various technical assignments until his selection in July 2008 as a mission specialist which launched into orbit the following fall.

Hernandez wants viewers watching his story to not only feel inspired but also walk away with the tools necessary to put their dreams into action.

"It's worth dreaming big, as long as you're willing to put in the work and effort to convert that dream into reality," Hernandez says. "There's a recipe there, sprinkled throughout the movie. The tools are there. It's an inspirational movie but you also have some tools to take home with you."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'A Million Miles Away' movie: NASA astronaut Jose Hernandez interview
Blink-182s track Aliens Exist could easily be the tagline for band member Tom DeLonge s directorial debut Monsters of California.

DeLonge co-wrote the script with Ian Miller and Ben Kull, with the plot centering on a high schooler looking to find his missing father who works for a secret government program. The action-comedy stars Jack Samson, Casper Van Dien, Camille Kostek, Richard Kind, and Arianne Zucker.

More from IndieWire

After discovering research left behind by a missing government agent, Dallas Edwards (Samson) and his misfit high school friends embark on a righteous and dangerous adventure to uncover a paranormal conspiracy in Southern California that brings them face-to-face with some of the governments most guarded mysteries.

DeLonge also produced the original score, composed by Ilan Rubin and co-produced by Aaron Rubin. Along with DeLonge, Stan Spry and Eric Scott Woods produce Monsters of California with DeLonges To The Stars production company behind the film in addition to Cartel Pictures.

DeLonge infamously claimed in 2015 that he had an alien encounter when visiting Area 51.

My whole body felt like it had static electricity, and I open my eyes and the [campfire] is still going, and theres a conversation going on outside the tent, DeLonge told Paper magazine (via The Hollywood Reporter) at the time. It sounded like there were about 20 people there, talking. And instantly my mind goes, OK, theyre at our campsite, theyre not here to hurt us, theyre talking about shit, but I cant make out what theyre saying. But theyre working on something. Then I close my eyes and wake up, and the fire is out, and I have about three hours of lost time.

He added of his extraterrestrial research, You have to understand, Ive been involved in this for a long time. I have sources from the government. Ive had my phone tappedIm talking to people that work underground for six months at a time, that are confiding in me about the national security initiatives.

DeLonge additionally alleged he endured mind-control experiments.

The rocker recently rejoined fellow Blink-182 bandmates Mark Hoppus and Travis Barker on an international tour. Barker can be seen on Hulu reality series The Kardashians as he is married to Kourtney Kardashian.

Monsters of California premieres in theaters and on demand October 6 via Screen Media. Check out the trailer below.

Best of IndieWire

Sign up for Indiewire's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.
Veteran Polish director Agnieszka Holland s Venice Special Jury Prize-winning refugee drama Green Border will release as planned in Poland on September 22 in defiance of a political backlash and wave of online hate talk.

Inspired by real-life events along Polands border with Belarus, the film has touched a raw nerve with the ruling right-wing, anti-migrant coalition led by the Law and Justice (PiS) party for its depictions of Polish border guards pushing back and abusing newly arrived refugees.

More from Deadline

Public criticism of the film by coalition politicians has been accompanied by a wave of extreme online hate talk against Holland, some of it antisemitic, calling on her to be tried for treason or expelled from Poland.

Sales agent Jean-Christophe Simon at Films Boutique announced on Wednesday (September 13) that the company been forced to disable the comments on social media pages promoting the film, after they were targeted by right-wing groups.

After trying for several days to moderate our social networks in a rational and legal manner, we had to close the comments for the first time, following hundreds of hate messages (often anti-Semitic and coordinated) from the Polish extreme right (and probably Russian trolls), fuelled by the shameful remarks of the Polish Minister of Justice, he said

Last week, Polish Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro (leader of the PiS-aligned Sovereign Poland party) posted on X that Green Border was in a similar vein to a Nazi Germany propaganda film showing Poles as bandits and murderers, and then later referred to Holland as Stalinist in a separate address.

Government official Stanisaw Zaryn, the Government Plenipotentiary for Information Security of Poland, also since publicly suggested the film was being used by Russia and Belarus to discredit Poland.

The migrant crisis along the Poland-Belarus border is a highly contentious issue.

Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko is accused of engineering the crisis since 2021 as an act of hybrid war, having encouraged people from the Middle East and Africa to travel to his country on the promise they can easily cross over to Poland and gain access to the entire European Union bloc.

Human rights groups have issued a number of reports sounding the alarm at the Polish practice of pushing migrants back into Belarus.

According to a report earlier this year by asylum seeker NGO Grupa Granica at least 37 people been found dead on both sides of the border since 2021, mainly due to hypothermia and drowning, and another 300 people have gone missing.

Green Border acknowledges the roots of the crisis but asks tough questions about a rising tide of anti-immigrant sentiment and loss of humanity, not just in Poland but across the whole of Europe.

Executive producer Mike Downey told Deadline that the production had contacted X about the hate speech but to little avail.

The tide of hate is almost unstoppable so were focusing on getting the film out there to as wide an audience as possible, he said.

Downey added that Holland and the entire team behind the film would not be cowed by the political backlash.

The response by the Polish regime is business as usual for them, he said. The attack on Agnieszka and the film is discriminatory, despicable, and hateful of the extreme right that holds power in Poland.

He said the online haters were attempting to deter people in Poland from seeing the film.

The message that is being sent out is that good, real, patriotic Poles are not supposed to watch it. The universal text and subtext is, that Agnieszka Holland is a traitor to the nation, he said.

Fred Bernstein, Agnieszka Holland, Jeff Field and Marcin Wierzchoslawski at the TIFF Green Border premiere

Holland is currently in Toronto where the film made its North American premiere on Tuesday and plays again on Friday (September 15).

Downey said that the production would then focus on the Polish release on September 22 by Kino Swiat.

He notes that September 22 is also the day that Poland is due to announce which film it will submit for Best International Feature Film at the 96th Academy Awards.

A number of reviews  including that of Deadline  have suggested that Green Border would make a worthy candidate.

We watch carefully for the result, said Downey.

Holland was nominated for Best Screenplay for Europa Europa in 1992 as well as for In Darkness, which was Polands candidate for the 84th Academy Awards. She also represented the country in 2017 with Spoor.

Beyond the potential awards run, Downey believes the film will feed into conversations in the lead-up to national elections on October 15 in which the Law and Justice party is hoping to win a third term in office.

Agnieszka will be back in Poland after Toronto to campaign for regime change. We hope that the film can be a positive signal that resistance is possible, he said.

The one thing that Agnieszka will not do, and neither will we, as her staunch supporters on the production, and that is to back down to the intimidation that the regime is showing to artists across the board. Their contempt for the creative communities and their bully-boy tactics will not work. The election is coming and we will take the fight back to them.

Further producers on the Polish-French-Czech-Belgian co-production are Marcin Wierzchosawski (Metro Films), Fred Bernstein (Astute Films), Holland (Metro Lato), Maria Blicharska-Lacroix, Damien McDonald (Blick Productions), Sarka Cimbalova (Marlene Film Production), Diana Elbaum, David Ragonig (Beluga Tree), Dominika Kulczyk (dFlights), and Jeff Field.

Best of Deadline

Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.
Mark Dickey spent 12 days more than 3,400 feet underground in a Turkish cave after he fell ill on August 31

Serkan Avci/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

American caver Mark Dickey is giving thanks to his fiancee, who played a pivotal role in saving his life.

Im alive because of the rescuers but she is the one that saved my life initially, Dickey said about Jessica Van Ord in an interview with ABC News, which aired on Good Morning America Thursday.

He added, She is one hell of a woman, one hell of a caver, one hell of a rescuer, one hell of a paramedic and shes awesome.

The 40-year-old New Jersey native was trapped in the Morca cave  the third-deepest cave in Turkey  for over a week after he became ill while on an expedition when he experienced gastrointestinal bleeding, according to NBC News.

Related: American Caver Rescued in Turkey Says It's 'Amazing to Be Above Ground': 'I Was Very Close to the Edge'

Throughout the entire 12-day ordeal, he told GMA he always "knew I would get to the surface," but the logistics surrounding getting him aid  including life-saving medications  weighed heavily on him. And thats where Van Ord, who had accompanied him on the expedition, sprang into action.

"I knew we had to get the ball rolling if there was going to be a rescue and to have treatment started," Van Ord told ABC News in an interview on Wednesday.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Van Ord, who is also a paramedic, knew that her fiance was suffering from internal bleeding based on his symptoms, so she made the tough decision to leave his side and to climb to the surface in a harrowing, hours-long ordeal.

Teams from the Hungarian Cave Rescue Service and Bulgarian Cave Rescue soon arrived on the scene, with Italian, Croatian and Polish teams also converging later in the week to aid in the rescue, according to a European Cave Rescue Association (ECRA) news release.

Related: Rescuers Race to Save American Man Who Fell Ill While Thousands of Feet Deep Inside Turkish Cave

By last Friday, around 200 caving experts had flown in to help Dickey in his ascent back to the surface, according to The Washington Post.

Upon reaching safe ground, Dickey was hospitalized in intensive care in the city of Mersin. Now in stable condition, doctors are currently running more tests to determine exactly what happened, he said on GMA.

But despite the good outcome, looking back at his arduous rescue, Dickey said he nearly lost hope.

Theres lots of different medical terminology, but circling the drain is one of them, and I was down pretty deep in that drain,  Dickey said on the Today show Thursday.

He added, I was down to single-word communication, I was in a fetal position, barely moving.



For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
On Wednesday's episode of ' The Real Housewives of Orange County ', Jenn Pedranti called out Tamra Judge's obsession with her relationship: "It's your job to busy yourself in my f---ing pain?"

Cindy Ord/Bravo via Getty, Charles Sykes/Bravo via Getty, Albert L. Ortega/Getty Vicki Gunvalson , Shannon Beador and Tamra Judge

The Tres Amigas are back and stirring the pot on The Real Housewives of Orange County!

On Wednesdays episode, Vicki Gunvalson brought a spoon to stir up some drama, surprising the ladies during their trip to Mexico  which was already set to be heated as Heather Dubrow had grown tired of answering for her alleged offenses against Emily Simpson and Shannon Storms Beador.



Related: RHOC: Emily Treads on 'Thin F---- Ice' in Feud with Heather as Jenn Takes Big Step in Relationship with Ryan

The friction picked up where it left off last week as Heather began explaining why she had kept the $55 million sale of her Orange County home a secret and fended off Emilys claims Shannon had trash-talked of her at BravoCon.

The sale of the house is huge. Why did I think that by sharing good news that it would be met with anything other than this bulls---? she said in a confessional interview as footage showed her walking out of dinner. Were just going to go around the table and say what youre mad at me about? Does the waiter want to come over and Ill apologize to him as well?

Source: Heather Dubrow/Instagram Heather Dubrow in her Orange County home

Related: Heather Dubrow on Why She Kept Chateau Sale a Secret: Damned if You Do, You're Damned if You Don't

While Shannon denied talking about Emily, Tamra Judge followed Heather to check in.

Ive said it a thousand times, a disgruntled Heather explained, Im tired of people lying about me, Im tired of people saying Im saying things when Im not. I find it very interesting that Emily has a very crackerjack memory when it comes to anything I have said.

She continued, I am just at a tipping point with everyone, like I just feel like I'm taking a test for everything, I'm held to a different set of standards. I feel like I cant say anything right, I cant do anything right.

MICHAEL TRAN/AFP via Getty Images Heather Dubrow

Related: Heather Dubrow Teases 'Very Difficult' Season of RHOC: Friendship Runs Deep  and So Do Feuds (Exclusive)

Back at the dinner table, Jenn Pedranti confronted Shannon about her claim there was juicy gossip about Jenn's relationship with Ryan Boyajian that shed heard from Tamra.

Ive just heard that theres a lot more stuff that hasnt come out, Shannon said. I dont know what it is.

According to Jenn, she and Tamra have a mutual friend named Alex who attends their gym. In a confessional interview, she claimed that Alex approached her and informed her that Tamra had requested information about her relationship.

Tamra, on the other hand, alleged Alex was the girl with whom Ryan had an affair and that she reached out to the 56-year-old reality former CUT Fitness owner to retaliate after a fight with Ryan.

Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic Ryan Boyajian and Jennifer Pedranti

Related: 'RHOC': 'Betrayal' Swirls as Tamra Atones, Shannon Feels 'Stupid' and Jenn Says She's Become a 'Punching Bag'

Elsewhere in the episode, the Tres Amigas reunited when Vicki surprised the group during their cast trip to Mexico. While playing a raunchy game of Truth or Dare, Jenn asked the group to ask Vicki a good truth to share as she didnt know much about her.

Out of the blue, Vicki claimed, I think you and I have a situation where we love a man that may not be the right person for us and you know it in your gut but you dont want to make a change.

Well Jenn looks confused, Emily replied, cutting the tension while Jenn scoffed, baffled by her statement.

The truth always comes up, Vicki continued. You can see it now, you can see it a year from now, you can see it three years from now, you may never see it.

Related: RHOC: Jenn Slams Tamra for 'Airing All My S--- Out' as Ryan's Loyalty Is Questioned Once Again

After reassuring the group that she knew the ins and outs of Ryans past infidelities, Jenn told cameras of Vickis revelation, "Vicki doesn't know me and Vicki doesn't know Ryan.... Vicki knows Tamra and clearly  obviously, Vicki is hearing things from Tamra."

The next day while the group enjoyed breakfast, Tamra confirmed that she had been talking about Jenns relationship to their mutual friends.

Why do you do that? Jenn asked incredulously. I don't get you, you're always calling me out, you're malicious about it and you're mean about it.

Jason Mendez/Getty; Andrew J Cunningham/Getty Tamra Judge, Ryan Boyajian, Jennifer Pedranti

Related: 'RHOC': Tamra Claims 'Town W----' Ryan Was on a Secret Mission to 'F--- Her' 2 Months Before Dating Jen

Jenn began explaining her side of the story, claiming that Alex had dated Ryan during their break but never knew her personally until Tamra interjected, you never talked to her?

"Thats a f---ing baited question and you know it, Jenn replied with anger rising in her voice. That's why I don't know why you don't just say what you want to f---ing say."

She confirmed that she had spoken to Alex and claimed that she shared that Tamra had reached out in search of information which Tamra fervently denied.

"If you need my s--- to air to make yourself more relevant then good for f---ing you," Jenn retorted as Tamra claimed she was looking out for her and didnt want her to get hurt. The 46-year-old yoga instructor didnt buy her explanation, asking, "So it's your job to busy yourself in my f--ing pain?"

You ruined your whole family, Tamra began, which prompted Jenn to scream, I didnt ruin my family, how dare you?!

You don't get to sit there and be my friend and tell me I ruined my family. she told cameras. I can hear and take a hard conversation but not the way you've done it. That is not the way a friend talks or acts."

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

The Real Housewives of Orange County airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on Bravo.

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
ISLAMABAD, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Eleven people, including a leader of a religious political party, got injured in an explosion in Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province on Thursday, police said.

The leader of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) was on his way to attend a political rally in Kalat district when he was attacked while passing by Mastung district of the province, the police told media.

Talking to Xinhua on condition of anonymity, police sources from Mastung said that according to initial reports, the leader Hafiz Hamdullah's vehicle was hit by a suicide bomber.

The sources added that the suspected bomber rammed his explosive-laden motorbike into the leader's vehicle on a main highway in the district.

Talking to media, the JUI's spokesperson Aslam Ghauri, said that the leader and his two gunmen got injured in the attack and have been shifted to a nearby hospital.

Ghauri confirmed that the leader received minor injuries and is in stable condition.

Police said that a passenger van was passing by Hamdullah's vehicle when the incident happened, and eight passengers also got injured after being hit by glass windows that shattered due to the explosion's impact.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet.

The area has been cordoned off for investigation. 
Riverdale star Erinn Westbrook has surprised fans with the announcement of her first baby on Instagram.

On Wednesday 13 September, the Riverdale actor revealed that she had quietly welcomed her first child last month with her husband Andrew, who she has been reportedly married to since August 2019.

In a sweet post on Instagram, the new mom proudly showed off her bundle of joy lying on a blue blanket, wearing a knitted outfit and matching bonnet. No greater love, she captioned the post. Welcome to the world, Teddy - born 23 August, 2023. You are the light of our lives and we love you endlessly.

Many of Westbrooks former co-stars commented below the actors post to congratulate her on the happy news, including Riverdale co-star Madelaine Petsch. My new little bestie!!! Ahhhhh!!!!! she wrote.

Hayley Law, another Riverdale alum, commented: Omgosh!!!!! Congrats you beautiful mama awwww love love love.

Westbrooks Insatiable co-stars were also ecstatic about the news, like actor Chloe Bridges, who wrote that Teddy was perfect.

Meanwhile, Irene Choi gushed: ERINNNNNNNN!!!!!! Ahhhhh congrats you guys! Im already obsessed with his tiny little fingers. Welcome to the world, little baby bear Teddy! Youre gonna love this bc you already have the best parents.

Alyssa Milano, another one of Westbrooks Insatiable co-stars, was shocked by the happy news: What??? I love this so much. Text me!

Westbrook reportedly met her husband Andrew at a Harvard University class reunion, before she rose to prominence in many teen drama series like Insatiable and Riverdale. The pair were later married in a lavish wedding, exclusively shared with Martha Stewart Weddings in a since-deleted article. According to the website, Westbrook and her husband celebrated their love in the actors home town of St Louis, Missouri. They organised a lavish 200-guest wedding with St Louis-themed elements, such as a trolley and a barbecued menu.

In December 2019, Westbrook shared photos of the big day on Instagram, including a photo of her and her husband posing together at Busch Stadium where he proposed. In the caption, Westbrook wrote: The highlight of my 2019? Marrying Andrew in my hometown, surrounded by family and friends.

That same year, Westbrook shared in interview with 1883 Magazine that she had to go back to filming shortly after our wedding. While work cut their honeymoon short, Westbrook was keen on making the most of it. My husband and I were determined to sneak away for at least a few days though, and we made the most of it, she said at the time. We went back to one of our favorite places on the Big Island of Hawaii, which was just easy and relaxing.

The day her newborn child was born was coincidentally the same day the Riverdale series finale aired after seven seasons. Westbrook played Tabitha Tate on the hit CW series, from season five to season seven. She proved to become a fan favourite, despite being introduced later on in the series.

Westbrook commemorated Riverdale s ending in an Instagram post shared in June. Thanking viewers for their support over the years, she wrote: I will always be grateful for my time as Tabitha Tate! It was an honour to bring her to life.
The man was surfing at New Smyrna Beach on Tuesday when a shark latched onto his face, according to Volusia County Beach Safety

A South Carolina surfer who was bitten in the face by a shark at a Florida beach says the encounter was the scariest thing hes ever experienced.

Mark Sumersett, 38, was surfing at New Smyrna Beach  which has been called the "shark bite capital of the world on Tuesday when the shark latched onto his face, according to an incident from Volusia County Beach Safety obtained by PEOPLE.

The surfer told NBC affiliate WESH that he didnt see the shark before it bit him while he rode a wave near the jetty.



Related: Man Dies, Another Found Floating Face Down in Separate Incidents at Fla. Beach Over an Hour Apart

It was like a crunch, Sumersett said. I heard the crunch. It felt like a bear trap crunching on my face.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.



I thought that sucker was going to come back for me, the South Carolina man added. I thought he was cause I was bleeding so bad.

The surfer was taken to Halifax Health Medical Center, a level-two trauma center, and released a short time later, per a previous WESH report.

Related: How to Prevent a Shark Attack and What to Do If Bitten? An American Lifeguard Association Expert Weighs In

The surfer sustained injuries to the right side of his face, which took about 20 stitches to close, according to the outlet. The shark also left marks at the bottom of the left side of his face, as well.

But this incident has not deterred the man from getting back on his surfboard.

Related: Connecticut Man Is Third Drowning Death This Week Off North Carolina's Outer Banks Coast

I'm going surfing again. Because I love it, he told the station. There's nothing in the world that makes me feel better than surfing.

However, nothing in his life has compared to the fear he faced during the attack. I've been in bad car accidents, he said. Nothing like this.

The incident is the seventh shark attack in the area this year, according to CBS affiliate WKMG-TV, The Daytona Beach News-Journal and WESH.

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
"Moe-Moe was literally put out with the trash," the Hoke County Animal Shelter in North Carolina said of the dog's abandonment

Hoke Co. Animal Shelter/Facebook Moe-Moe the dog left out with the garbage before his rescue by the Hoke County Animal Shelter in North Carolina

A dog in North Carolina went from rags to riches within a week.

On Sept. 7, sanitation workers in North Carolina found Moe-Moe, a 4-year-old American bulldog mix, in an animal crate, discarded next to several piles of trash for pick-up. Worried about the dog's well-being, the workers called animal control for help.

"Moe-Moe was literally put out with the trash," the Hoke County Animal Shelter in Raeford, North Carolina, which took over care of the canine from animal control, wrote on Facebook about the dog's abandonment.

"Thankfully, the guys that pick up the trash called Animal Control and were kind enough to give him some water with ice while they waited," the shelter added.

The post about Moe-Moe's sad situation included several photos. In one shot, Moe-Moe looks out of his carrier, surrounded by at least five piles of bags of trash, an old scooter, and a plastic bin with a chew toy on top. The shelter also included two happier photos of Moe-Moe smiling happily outdoors after his rescue.

Related:

Hoke Co. Animal Shelter/Facebook Moe-Moe the dog left out with the garbage before his rescue by the Hoke County Animal Shelter in North Carolina

"... I can't imagine what he's feeling right now," the organization added in its original post about Moe-Moe, noting that the pup was "such a sweetheart."

The Hoke County Animal Shelter concluded its post about Moe-Moe by informing followers that the housebroken dog is "great" with children and other dogs.

The dog's heartwrenching story went viral on Facebook, garnering over 1.3k shares and more than 400 comments.

Related: Husky Dog Shows Tiny 3-Legged Rescue Puppy How to Walk After Amputation  Watch! (Exclusive)

Five days later, Moe-Moe's new fame helped him land a home. In a Facebook update posted on Sept. 12, the North Carolina shelter confirmed that the dog had been adopted.

"I know many of you were worried about Moe-Moe. The sweetest boy who was put out with the trash," the animal shelter began its update post. "We're happy to announce that he got a wonderful home today."

The shelter described Moe-Moe's new owner as "the sweetest," adding that the adopter has regularly updated the facility on the dog's new life.

"He's already enjoying his big beautiful backyard and his new home," the shelter shared alongside photos of Moe-Moe in the car with his new "mom" and smiling happily in his new home.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.



"Thank you to everyone who shared his story and to all the folks that helped him on this journey and especially to his new sweet family," the Hoke County Animal Shelter added, noting that it had several other animals still looking to be adopted.

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
ELLWOOD CITY  The 22nd Annual Storytelling Festival is Saturday. The theme is Bee Enthralled and there will be some friendly bees buzzing about, and perhaps a bear, too.

Its family time in the park with face painting, balloon artists, free carriage rides and much more. Costumed characters and troubadours create the experience of what a village festival would have been like in the day.

At the center of the festival are six professional storytellers: Janel Behm, Tim Hartman, Mike Perry, Starla the Storyteller and musicians Sandi and Jerry Rectenwald, who will tell stories through their music. The stage is set to appeal to both children and adults.

Misty Gates Mator, best known as Starla the Storyteller, returns to charm the audience with her unique storytelling style.

Starla the Storyteller

Mator said storytelling has always been an important part of her life beginning with her grandmother from Germany reading her bedtime stories.

"I use my voice, movements, and facial expressions to convey the story. I interact directly with my audience. We experience the story together," she said.

After graduating from Lincoln High School in 2001, Mator attended Geneva College for theater and writing before marrying Tony Mator and moving to Florida.

Janel Behm specializes in sharing ancient stories from diverse cultures that will take the audience on a thought-provoking journey and leave them reconnected to self and community in new and unexpected ways.

Janel Behm specializes in sharing ancient stories from diverse cultures.

"I believe the world will be a kinder, more connected place when we share stories rooted in human experience and ancient history," she said.

Popular local musicians Sandi and Jerry Rectenwald have been making Christian music together their entire married life. In following their passion for over three decades, the duo has performed countless concerts and worship services, written a wide variety of songs, including Christmas music and childrens music and have appeared on TV and radio.

Sandi and Jerry Rectenwald

And another festival favorite, Tim Hartman, returns to the festival stage. Hartman has appeared in over 300 plays and musicals and a number of Broadway shows and movies, including a Tony nomination for his role in "Finian's Rainbow." Hartman is also an award-winning political cartoonist and illustrator. He said he likes the intimacy of storytelling best.

Tim Hartman

Michael Perry, a teacher by training and a performer at heart, returns to the festival. For over 25 years, Perry's extensive storytelling experience includes the Pittsburgh Storytelling Festival, Hagerstowns Stories in the Round and Pittsburghs annual Tellabration. He also tells his tales at libraries, festivals, schools and corporate events. His busy schedule includes teaching the art of storytelling.

Michael Perry

Nancy Wallace, youth services coordinator at the Ellwood City Area Public Library, said they are excited to add a book fair to the festival.

In this 2016 file photo, Nancy Wallace, youth services director for the Ellwood City Area Library on Lawrence Avenue, reads a pirate book to 2-year-old Daniel Bowser of Ellport during Family Laptime.

This years new attraction features a book fair by authors from the Society of Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI) that will take place at park shelters. It's an opportunity to meet the authors and books can be purchased and signed by the authors.

"The book fair will become a regular part of our annual festival," Wallace said.

A festival has to have food and drink, so Henry's Ice Cream, Butchmens' Chili Dogs and National Grind will be there, and Christ Church will have water for sale.

What: Storytelling Festival

Where: Ewing Park, Ellwood City

When: 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 16

Admission: Free

Schedule:

4  4:30 p.m., Starla the Storyteller

4:45  5:15 p.m., Janel Behm

5:30  6 p.m., Sandi and Jerry Rectenwald

6:15  6:45 p.m., Tim Hartman

7  7:30 p.m., Mike Perry

Presented by the Ellwood City Community Enrichment and the Ellwood City Public Library and sponsored by the May Emma Hoyt Foundation and Caroline Knox Memorial Fund.

This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Ellwood City welcomes Storytelling Festival Saturday
Mathias Uribe's parents made the difficult decision after he was diagnosed with pneumonia and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome

Getty Child's hand in hospital bed, with IV drip attached

The parents of a 14-year-old boy in Tennessee made the difficult decision to amputate their son's hands and feet in order to save his life, following a diagnosis of pneumonia and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome that sent him into cardiac arrest.

When Mathias Uribe began experiencing "flu-like symptoms" in June, his parents Edgar Uribe and Catalina Cardona knew something wasnt right.

They took him to see doctors twice, according to the GoFundMe page set up to help cover the costs of Mathias' eventual hospital stay.

According to NewsChannel5, while at the local hospital, Mathias' illness swiftly progressed to septic shock and he went into cardiac arrest for six minutes. The teen was airlifted to Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, where there was an available ECMO machine.

The Mayo Clinic describes an ECMO machine as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, in which blood is pumped outside of one's body to a heart-lung machine in critical care or life-threatening situations when one's heart and lungs need help to heal.

Getty A doctor examining a patient

Related: Toddler Ends Up in ICU After Strep A Infection Is Dismissed as 'Just a Fever'

"We come to you with heavy hearts to share some difficult news about our beloved son," the GoFundMe message begins, explaining how the family's "world fell apart" on June 30 when Mathias was taken to the emergency room, "where his heart stopped."

Dr. Katherine Boyle, the assistant professor of Pediatrics Critical Care Medicine at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital who led Mathias' care team, told WSMV that the boy's medical situation is "extremely rare."



Sometimes, when you get the flu, it does set you up for a bacterial infection. But even then, most kids dont get nearly as sick as Mathias did, Boyle said.

On July 12, as Mathias' heart and lungs showed improvement, his medical team removed the ECMO therapy. On July 18, his respirator was removed as his health continued to improve.



The GoFundMe statement notes that "after 20 days of intense treatment, we were told that his extremities had been compromised." After conferring with the teen's medical team, Mathias' parents made the difficult decision to amputate his hands and feet.

That flow wasnt getting to all of his extremities, so they had to amputate all of his four extremities, Mathias' father told WSMV.

Related: 21-Year-Old Dance Major Continues Ballet Following Bone Cancer, Leg Amputation: 'I Never Gave Up'

Mathias reportedly underwent surgery on July 25 to remove his left leg above the knee and his right leg below the knee. The surgery to amputate both hands above the wrist was performed on Aug. 1.

I said when we got to the doctors when we came there, Please dont use the word amputation,  Mathias' mother told WSMV. Lets use remove. 

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.

Mathias' parents expect him to be in the hospital for another month, where the teen has already spent over two months as an inpatient. They are looking for prosthetics and rehab in the Atlanta area, per WSMV.

Both parents are asking for "support, love, and prayers" as their son continues his recovery.



For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
The European Union (EU) is providing 352 million ($378 million) in funding to support green transport infrastructure, and Tesla will get a large chunk of that money. The company's Polish and Italian divisions will receive a total of 148.72 million ($159.64 million) to install or upgrade 7,198 Superchargers across 22 countries, according to the EU's list of projects.

"The project aims at deploying 6,458 recharging points (250 kW) for LDV in 613 locations in 16 countries (AT, BE, BG, DE, ES, FI, FR, IE, IT, LV, LT, LU, NL, RO, SK, SE) along the Core and Comprehensive Network. The project foresees both the deployment of new recharging stations and the replacement of existing outdated recharging points not satisfying the requirement of the call in terms of recharging capacity and open-accessibility," the Tesla Italy project description reads. It states the same for Poland's Tesla division, while adding an additional six nations (CZ, EL, HR, HU, PL, SI).

Proposals for the project had an April 13, 2023 deadline, and the EU just announced the successful bids. It appears to cover a large chunk of Europe, but there are no details on a breakdown of new stations or upgrades yet. Much of the funding could go toward updates to Tesla's Supercharger V4, which offers a power output of 350 kW  up from the last model's 250 kW.

Tesla recently celebrated its 10,000th individual Supercharger connector in the EU, and counts 875 stations in total. The following is a breakdown for the top countries: Germany (143), France (123), the UK (100), Norway (95), Sweden (65), Italy (59), Spain (50), the Netherlands (39), Austria (27) and Switzerland (27).

It's a large percentage of funding for one company, but the EU's decision seems logical. Other car companies including Ford, GM, Volvo and Mercedes have said they'll switch to Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, and struck deals with the company to use its Superchargers  meaning a lot of drivers will be able to access Tesla's network. Early in 2021, Tesla opened up its network to all EV users at select Superchargers in the Netherlands, France and Norway.

The EU greenlit 26 projects in total, with most dedicated to EV charging points but several relating to hydrogen refueling stations for heavy duty and other types of vehicles. "Our investment of 352 million will translate into approximately 12,000 charging points, 18 hydrogen refueling stations, and the electrification of ports and airports, including the port of Rotterdam and 37 Spanish airports," said European Commissioner for Transport Adina Valean.
Todd Chrisley is "like the president" of the federal prison he is currently in, his daughter said.

Savannah Chrisley added that her parents have made friends in prison.

Todd Chrisley and his wife, Julie, were convicted of tax fraud but already had years shaved off their sentences.

Todd Chrisley is apparently "like the president" of the prison he's in, his daughter, Savannah Chrisley, told Nick Viall on Thursday's new episode of The Viall Files podcast.

When asked whether her parents have made friends in federal prison, Savannah Chrisley replied, "Oh, hell yeah."

"Dad is like, he likes to joke because even at visitation, I meet so many different people. It's hilarious. I come through visitation and they come through and they're like, clapping his hands. He's like, the president of this place," Savannah Chrisley said.

Todd, 54, and Julie, 50, were convicted of bank fraud and tax evasion last year and began their prison sentences in January. Todd is incarcerated at the Federal Prison Camp in Pensacola, Florida, and Julie is incarcerated at the Federal Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky.

Savannah Chrisley said she has "100%" heard crazy stories from her parents since they're in federal prison.

"People don't really realize because people think where they're at is like 'Camp Cupcake,' you know? Just, 'let's go bunk around and fucking enjoy great food,' " she said, adding that their respective prisons are "considered like a camp, like the lowest possible you can be in, so it's like adult babysitting."

Most of the people in these prisons, she said, are non-violent offenders like lawyers and doctors  including the "Varsity Blues Guy," she said but also "major drug lords" that have made their way down from higher security facilities.

But Savannah Chrisley has previously slammed the Chrisleys' prison conditions as a "nightmare," with "black mold, asbestos" and snakes "slithering on the floor" in Julie Chrisley's case.

Savannah Chrisley said gets to talk to each of her parents, who are in different prisons, "at least twice a day" and that she had already spoken to each of them on the day of the Viall Files recording.

She said they talk about "the same shit every day" and that they have to call her collect, so she can't call them back if she ever misses the call.

They typically talk about "whatever we have going on, whatever my plans are for the day, the BS that's going on there, the kids, checking on them," Savannah Chrisley added.

When asked whether her parents "vent" to her, she said that they "definitely put on a good face."

She continued: "But also in the midst of all of this, I've taken it as an opportunity to like, make a difference, be outspoken because I have a platform that can speak for people that may not be able to speak for themselves so there's a little bit of venting but for the most part it's like 'We're gonna put on a good face and we're gonna save the venting for like in person."

The Chrisleys may not be in prison for as long as they thought. This week, it was reported the convicted couple got their sentences reduced already for good behavior, and the family's lawyer told Insider he thinks they'll be out even sooner than that.

Read the original article on Insider
If President Biden wants Black voters to come out in support of him in 2024, he better not be thinking of running without Kamala Harris  at least, thats what The View host Sunny Hostin argued on Thursday.

Her assertion came as she and her co-hosts discussed an interview Sen. Nancy Pelosi gave CNN this week, in which she was asked point-blank (twice) by Anderson Cooper if she thinks Kamala Harris is the best running mate for Biden in 2024. In response, Pelosi replied that he thinks so, and thats what matters, and lauded Harris for being politically astute.

Hostin pointed out that, in 2020, Biden earned 91% percent of the Black vote, and swore that Black people would come out and support him again  if Kamala Harris is his running mate.

I would be very careful, President Biden, about getting rid of Kamala Harris. Because we will not support you, she said bluntly. We will not vote for you.

Of course, theres been no real indication that Biden plans to drop Harris as a running mate, and that was something Whoopi jumped on immediately, pointing out that its virtually never happened to any VP. Host Alyssa Farah Griffin agreed, reassuring the table that its a lot of Washington speculation.

Still, Hostin reiterated her point, saying if Biden gets rid of Kamala Harris, and inserts someone else, he will lose the Black vote.

When Farah Griffin questioned if that would be the case, even if he selected another Black woman, Hostin was blunt: We are not interchangeable.

I dont want to white-splain, but you might be underestimating the Black community voter, Behar shot back, which Hostin immediately shut down.

The post The View Host Sunny Hostin Warns Biden to Be Careful and Not Dump Kamala Harris as VP: You Will Lose the Black Vote appeared first on TheWrap.
John Wicks journey may have started as a simple yet heartwrenching revenge mission, but the retired hitmans story has only gotten more complicated  and violent  with every chapter. Now, after four films and a canon-adjacent video game, the reluctant assassins universe is expanding with a prequel series: The Continental: From the World of John Wick. The show, originally slated for Starz but now set to release on Peacock, tells a tale from long before John Wicks time, exploring the notorious Continental hotel (from which Keanu Reevess beloved antihero is currently banned).

With four films and the new three-part prequel series on the way, theres a lot to follow within the world of John Wick. But dont worry, if youre ready to watch the John Wick movies from start to finish ahead of the shows premiere, weve got you covered. Heres how to watch John Wick in order, where to stream all the John Wick movies, plus what you need to know about The Continental: From the World of John Wick.

When does The Continental: From the World of John Wick come out?

The Continental: From the World of John Wick premieres Friday, Sept. 22, exclusively on Peacock.

Peacock Stream 'The Continental' $6 at Peacock

How many episodes of The Continental: From the World of John Wick are there?

The John Wick prequel will be a limited series with three parts. Part one premieres on Sept. 22, part two on September 29 and part three Oct. 6.

The Continental: From the World of John Wick trailer

The Continental: From the World of John Wick cast

The limited series stars Mel Gibson, Colin Woodell, Mishel Prada, Ben Robson, Hubert Point-Du Jour, Nhung Kate, Jessica Allain, Ayomide Adegun, Jeremy Bobb, Mark Musashi, Marina Mazepa and Peter Greene.

How to watch all the John Wick movies in order (plus where to stream them)

Luckily, all the John Wick movies are numbered and follow a fairly straightforward timeline, but just in case you need a refresher, here's how and where to watch them:

1. John Wick (2014)

A retired hitman, in mourning over his late wifes death, revives his killing career when a sadistic mobster steals his car and kills his dog. Keanu Reeves, Alfie Allen and Michael Nyqvist star.

Watch on Peacock

2. John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017)

When his old co-workers hear hes back in the field, retired super-assassin John Wick reluctantly accepts a new assignment in Rome, Italy. Riccardo Scamarcio and Ruby Rose join the cast alongside Reeves.

Watch on Peacock

3. John Wick: Chapter 3  Parabellum (2019)

After making a grave error on his last assignment, John Wick finds himself without protection and saddled with a $14 million bounty on his head. Halle Berry and Laurence Fishburne join the cast for John Wick 3.

Watch on Peacock

4. John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)

Still fighting back against the growing bounty on his head, John Wick takes the fight global. Bill Skarsgard joins Reeves for the fourth chapter of the thrilling action franchise, which starts streaming tomorrow, Sept. 15 on Starz.

Watch on Starz

Where does The Continental: From the World of John Wick fall on the John Wick timeline?

The Continental is a prequel series to the John Wick franchise, set in late 1970s Manhattan. Since John Wicks journey first began in 2014, that puts The Continental several decades behind the first John Wick movie on the timeline.

Peacock Stream 'The Continental' $6 at Peacock

Are there going to be more John Wick movies?

While John Wick 5 has yet to be confirmed, there is already a prequel action movie called Ballerina in the works. The film will explore John Wick's origin story. Between Ballerina and The Continental, it seems the world of John Wick is wide open for more spinoff stories.
BALTIMORE  In many ways, the conference underway this week at the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore is more like a celebration.

About one year into the science mission for the James Webb Space Telescope, the historic observatory is largely an awe-inspiring success.

Take, for instance, Marcia Rieke, the principal investigator in charge of the near-infrared camera aboard the observatory, called NIRCam. Rieke took the lectern Monday morning wearing a jacket printed with one of the first James Webb images to be released to the public: a capture of the Cosmic Cliffs, a star-forming region about 7,600 light-years from Earth in the Carina Nebula.

Her earrings were tiny replicas of the telescopes primary mirror, a golden honeycomb made up of 18 hexagonal segments.

Speaking to the assembled crowd inside the auditorium, holding nearly 180 people, and a host of attendees watching online, Rieke described how the infrared camera, and other instruments aboard the telescope, are exceeding expectations.

From the moment scientists opened the orbiting Webb telescopes powerful eyes to gaze at a star, they could see distant galaxies in the background, once hidden in the inky-black depths of space  showcasing the observatorys power compared with its predecessors.

For that reason, images captured by Webb are instantly recognizable. So much so that when a French physicist shared an image last year on Twitter, claiming it was a star captured by James Webb, astronomers could tell immediately it was a prank. (It was actually a slice of chorizo.)

Almost as soon as that appeared, people said: No, that cant be a real JWST image because there are no galaxies in the background, said Rieke, a professor at the University of Arizona.

Since the telescopes launch on Christmas Day in 2021, the institute at the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore has been its earthly home base. From a control room overlooking wooded Wyman Park and the waters of Stony Run, scientists carefully monitor the observatorys status, ensuring that its various instruments are operating as planned.

The institute also sends all commands up to the telescope, determining where it will cast its gaze. After theyre dispatched from Charm City, the telescopes marching orders are transmitted via one of the radio antennas in the Deep Space Network, which are located in Goldstone, California; Madrid; and Canberra, Australia.

Once the telescope collects the data, it is beamed back to Baltimore, where staff members distribute it to the scientists whose research the telescope was performing.

Its therefore fitting to have the conference, which runs through Thursday, at the institute, said Macarena Garcia Marin, the James Webb Space Telescope project scientist at the institute.

Its kind of a nice closing of the loop. Like, here is where you send the commands for the telescope to observe all those beautiful objects and then you get the data here, and its processed and its sent to the community, she said. And now were having the scientific community coming in, and having a meeting to explain: Well, this is everything were finding.

Since the telescope arrived at its resting point 1 million miles away from Earth, and underwent several months of careful calibration, it has completed hundreds of missions, answering complex astronomical questions  and creating some new ones along the way.

During the opening of the conference Monday, Marc Postman, the interim deputy director at the Baltimore institute, called the telescope a beacon of human achievement.

Over the past year, JWST users, including many among us here today, have published findings that require us to rethink our paradigms of planet, star and galaxy formation, he said.

The list includes the discovery of massive, bright galaxies just a few hundred million years after the Big Bang, an indication that galactic formation took place faster than expected.

Webb also captured the first clear evidence of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere of a gas giant planet outside our solar system, showing off its power to uncover details about faraway planets and their formation.

Scientists also have used Webb to collect evidence backing up the Hubble constant, a measurement of the rate at which the universe expands, as captured by its predecessor, the Hubble Space Telescope. This is important because it deepens the mystery known as the Hubble tension, which arose when measurements from Hubble showed a faster rate of expansion than other instruments. The discrepancy could indicate that scientists are missing something, such as the presence of a unique particle or field that could be fouling some of the measurements.

This is just a subset of the one year of science, Postman said. Imagine what the next 10 years will bring.

And forecasts show that the telescope could send data back down to Earth for far longer. While initial, conservative estimates indicated the telescope would have enough fuel on board to last for 10 years, the propellant is now expected to last for more than 20, thanks to a very efficient launch, said Jane Rigby, senior project scientist for the Webb telescope.

It still cool to me you can fire thrusters youve never fired before, and they can work to a percent. Thats neat, Rigby said.

During her presentation Monday, Rigby provided a status update on the telescope. She said the telescopes vision is more sensitive than expected, it is capturing less confounding stray light and it is more stable in space than anticipated.

When I say things are going great, she said, heres some documentation of what great looks like.

However, she said, there are still some hiccups to work through. Evidence shows that the telescopes Mid-Infrared Instrument, called MIRI, could be losing sensitivity over time, Rigby said, adding that scientists still are investigating the root cause of the anomaly.

As expected, the telescope also has been struck by about 50 micro-meteoroids, Rigby said. And while the vast majority of those hits caused negligible damage, one strike in May 2022 did damage the telescope.

So scientists have been trying to figure out how to ensure the telescope is less vulnerable to strikes, Rigby said.

We have spent a lot of time trying to figure out: Why that one hit back in May  which you can see here is a dinner-plate-sized deformation of that segment that will be with us for the rest of the mission. What was up with that event? Rigby said.

Rigby said operators have attempted to strategically adjust which way the telescope is pointed in order to protect the observatory, which cost roughly $10 billion to create. Efforts to construct it officially began in 2004, but were marred by a string of delays and cost overruns, all leading up to the launch at the end of 2021.

This years conference comes a bit more than a year after astronomers unveiled the telescopes first full-color images at the Space Telescope Science Institute last summer, although President Joe Biden spoiled some of the action with a sneak preview at the White House. To attend, astronomers young and old arrived from near and far.

Iris Jermann traveled from Denmark, where she is a doctoral student at the Cosmic Dawn Center in Copenhagen. On Thursday, Jermann will present her research regarding cosmic deep fields captured by MIRI. But she is just as excited to discuss the findings of other scientists.

What I like about conferences is we get out of our bubble, Jermann said. I get more when I listen to others. Like, what theyre doing  just seeing the bigger picture.

The conference comes just before the latest deadline for scientists to propose new observations for Webb to complete. The due date is Oct. 25, after which panels of astronomers will select the experiments that the telescope will complete starting in the summer of 2024. So there will be plenty of discussion at the conference that shapes those proposals, Garcia Marin said.

It doesnt even have to be at the conference. It could be over lunch, she said. When you sit with people and exchange ideas, you either get new ideas and new fresh ways of addressing a problem, or you realize that you have to change something.
Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding (4th L) and the acting Director General of the Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA) Painos Gweme (5th R) pose for a group photo with Zimbabwean participants of the "My Dream" Painting Competition in Harare, Zimbabwe, Sept. 13, 2023. The Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe on Wednesday held an awarding ceremony for two prize winners of the "My Dream" Painting Competition for African youth.(Photo by Tafara Mugwara/Xinhua)

HARARE, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe on Wednesday held an awarding ceremony for two prize winners of the "My Dream" Painting Competition for African youth.

Ten paintings, including one by Zimbabwean girl Hope Mafiko, won the "Tian He" Award, the first prize.

As a winner of the first prize, Mafiko received her award at the main venue in China. Her colorful painting, titled "One of the Best Interior Architects in Africa," depicts two African girls looking up to the sky, which vividly depicts humanity's yearning for the mystical universe.

Asa King Zvihari, 24, another winner, was elated to be among the best entrants in Africa. Zvihari won the "Meng Tian" Award, the third prize, for his work titled "All Africans are United and Working Together."

"My painting portrays the whole African nations united together, working together as a nation. So in this united Africa, there are more advantages. There will be empowerment. There will be free trade among African countries, there will be job creation, and there will be no boundaries," said Zvihari. "I feel motivated, and I feel that I am on the right path with my career. I am hoping to be an internationally recognized artist."

The "My Dream" competition aims at promoting people-to-people exchanges and cooperation in space exploration between China and Africa. The painting competition was co-hosted by the secretariat of the Chinese Follow-up Committee of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the China Manned Space Engineering Office (CMSEO) and Chinese missions in African countries.

On Wednesday, the Chinese astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station showcased the 10 first-prize paintings by African youth.

Zimbabwean participants who attended the awarding ceremony in Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe, also had an opportunity to join other African youth in a live session of the "talking with the taikonauts" event where African youth interacted with Chinese astronauts aboard the Chinese space station through video conferencing.

Nicole Njanjari, 19, had an opportunity to ask a question about the astronauts' experiences in space.

"I have never asked a question to someone that is in a completely different space altogether, so it was a very good experience. I got the answers that I needed, and it was very interesting to hear their experiences in space," Njanjari said.

She said interacting with Chinese astronauts gave her exposure to astronauts' life experiences in outer space.

The other seven participants from Zimbabwe also received certificates for their excellent works at Wednesday's awarding ceremony.

Speaking at the awarding ceremony, Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding congratulated the Zimbabwean youth for their participation and recognition.

"I sincerely hope that today's event will help sow new seeds of science, art, friendship and dream in your mind, where I believe the seeds will take roots, flourish and bear fruits," Zhou said. "You are the future and hope of Zimbabwe and the world. I wish you and all our young Zimbabwean friends to thrive and become the pillars of this country."

Painos Gweme, acting director general of the Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA), said the government supports space exploration by Zimbabwean youth.

"Over the years, Zimbabwean youth like other African youth at large, have expressed strong interest in outer space and their desire to fly to space someday in the future. The government of Zimbabwe through Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space is ready to actively support the activities that enable the youth in Zimbabwe to explore the universe," Gweme said.

In addition, he expressed gratitude to the secretariat of the Chinese Follow-up Committee of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the China Manned Space Engineering Office for organizing and co-hosting the painting competition. 

Nicole Njanjari, a participant of the "My Dream" Painting Competition, listens while a Chinese astronaut responds to her question during the awarding ceremony in Harare, Zimbabwe, Sept. 13, 2023. The Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe on Wednesday held an awarding ceremony for two prize winners of the "My Dream" Painting Competition for African youth.(Photo by Tafara Mugwara/Xinhua)
American caver Mark Dickey said he could tell he was "pretty close to fading" after he fell ill while on an expedition to map a 4,186-foot-deep cave system in southern Turkey.

"There's not that much that you tell yourself. You kind of just survive," Dickey recalled during an interview Thursday with ABC News on "Good Morning America."

The 40-year-old New Jersey native and New York resident was more than 3,400 feet below the surface inside the Morca Cave in the Taurus Mountains on Aug. 31 when he "suddenly became ill with intestinal problems that rapidly progressed into life-threatening bleeding and vomiting," according to the New Jersey Initial Response Team, a group of volunteers led by Dickey who specialize in cave and mine rescues.

Dickey's fiancee and fellow caver, Jessica Van Ord, said she had a difficult decision to make -- stay by his side to take care of him or go find help. But Van Ord, who is a paramedic, said she "knew immediately" that Dickey had internal bleeding based on his symptoms and recalled giving him "one last hug" before she left.

"I knew we had to get the ball rolling if there was going to be a rescue and to have treatment started," Van Ord told ABC News in an earlier interview on Wednesday.

MORE: American caver hoisted to safety after 12 days in Turkish cave

PHOTO: Rescuers gather around a radio in Morca Cave, as they take part in a rescue operation to reach U.S. caver Mark Dickey who fell ill and became trapped some 1,000 meters underground, near Anamur in Mersin province, southern Turkey, Sept. 7, 2023. (Agnes Berentes via Reuters)

Van Ord made the harrowing, hourslong climb to the surface and alerted authorities about Dickey's predicament on Sept. 2. The call to help him went out from the European Cave Rescue Association that same day and hundreds of aid works from various countries responded.

A rescue team that included medical staff began an evacuation late last week, after Dickey's condition improved enough to move him. Volunteers had previously worked to clear a path to the surface.

Rescuers carried Dickey on a stretcher out of the cave, resting at planned stops along the way. He was extracted from the cave at around 12:37 a.m. local time on Sept. 12, according to the Turkish Caving Federation, which described the dramatic operation as "successful."

Dickey said he knew some of the rescuers and that he didn't doubt they would hoist him to safety.

"Once we started moving, it happened a lot faster than I expected," he told ABC News. "Man, I was happy to get to the surface and see those stars and smell the fresh air."

MORE: American caver's partner speaks out about Mark Dickey's health after dramatic rescue

PHOTO: Members of the CNSAS, Italian alpine and speleological rescuers, carry a stretcher with American researcher Mark Dickey during a rescue operation in the Morca cave, near Anamur, southern Turkey, Sept. 11, 2023. (CNSAS/AP)

Dickey was subsequently hospitalized in intensive care in the southern port city of Mersin for further examination and observation. He was in stable condition at the time, according to Turkish authorities.

Dickey said he now feels "fantastic" but remains in the hospital in Mersin as doctors continue to conduct tests to determine what caused his illness.

"Every single day, I am getting a little bit stronger," he told ABC News.

Dickey said he's "alive because of the rescuers," whom he called "heroes," but also credited his fiancee with "initially" saving his life.

"She saved my life, period," he added. "She is one hell of a woman, one hell of a caver, one hell of a rescuer, one hell of a paramedic."

'Close to fading': American caver speaks out about rescue from Turkish cave originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
A convicted murderer who had eluded capture for nearly two weeks after escaping from a Pennsylvania prison was apparently planning to flee to Canada.

In interviews with authorities hours after his capture on Wednesday, Danelo Cavalcante allegedly revealed his plan to steal a car at gunpoint and drive to the U.S.-Canada border.

"He stated he intended to carjack somebody in the next 24 hours and that he was going to head north to Canada," Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Robert Clark told ABC News later Wednesday.

Authorities initially believed the 34-year-old fugitive may have been attempting to return to his native Brazil, where he faces charges in a separate slaying that took place in 2017.

MORE: Escaped murderer Danelo Cavalcante nabbed, and how a dog named Yoda helped collar him

PHOTO: Danilo Cavalcante being taken into custody, Sept. 13, 2023. (USBP Chief Tim Sullivan)

Cavalcante also allegedly told authorities that they were so close to him at times during the dayslong manhunt, they nearly stepped on him.

"He said on multiple occasions law enforcement officers almost stepped on him, [that] we were only five or six feet away," Clark said.

The fugitive claimed to have survived on the run, in part, by eating watermelon. He was also able to stay clean shaven from a razor that was in a backpack he had obtained, according to Clark.

MORE: Pennsylvania fugitive Danelo Cavalcante has eluded authorities in Brazil for years

PHOTO: Danilo Cavalcante is taken into custody, Sept. 13, 2023. (USBP Chief Tim Sullivan)

Cavalcante absconded from the Chester County Prison in southeastern Pennsylvania on Aug. 31, while awaiting transfer to a state prison to serve a life sentence without parole for fatally stabbing an ex-girlfriend in 2021. He allegedly broke out of the jail by "crab walking" up a wall in a recreation yard, pushing his way through razor wire and accessing the roof, where he climbed down and made his getaway an hour before guards realized he was missing, according to Howard Holland, acting warden of the Chester County Prison.

State authorities launched a massive manhunt for the 5-foot-tall fugitive, recapturing him on Wednesday morning. He was found hiding in or near a large pile of logs behind a John Deere store in South Coventry Township, about 30 miles from the Chester County Prison.

Cavalcante did not surrender immediately, according to Lt. Col. George Bivens, deputy commissioner of operations for the Pennsylvania State Police. The fugitive tried to get away by crawling through thick brush while armed with a .22-caliber rifle he had stolen from a nearby residence the night before, Bivens said.

Yoda, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois from a U.S. Customs and Border Protection team from El Paso, Texas, was sent in and helped detain Cavalcante, biting him at least once. No shots were fired, according to Bivens.

ABC News' Ahmad Hemingway and Bill Hutchinson contributed to this report.

Escaped murderer Danelo Cavalcante planned to flee to Canada, says cops almost stepped on him during manhunt originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Parents of non-verbal boy with autism demand answers after video shows school employee striking son

The parents of a non-verbal boy with autism are demanding answers after surveillance video appeared to show a Dayton Public Schools (DPS) employee striking their son, causing him to fall to the ground.

"He wasn't doing anything wrong," Taneshia Lindsay, mother of 3-year-old Braylen Tootle, said tearfully during a press conference on Wednesday. "You could have bear-hugged him. You could have let another teacher do it. I don't know what was going on in that man's head, but my son did not deserve that."

The family said they received a video of the incident on Monday after sending multiple requests for a copy of the video to Dayton Public Schools. Michael Wright, a lawyer for the family, said they have not yet seen the entire video of the incident, which took place on Aug. 21, and have not been informed whether the employee was credentialed to work with children with special needs.

ABC News has obtained a copy of the video in which the boy can be seen running down the hallway, followed by the DPS employee.

In the 17-second video, the employee eventually catches up to Braylen, hitting him in the head and causing him to fall to the ground. The employee proceeds to grab Braylen by his legs and carries him back upside down before another employee runs toward him. It is unclear what led to the incident and what occurred after.

PHOTO: Parents of 3-yr-old Braylan Tootles hold a press conference with their lawyer, Sept. 13, 2023. (WKEF)

"We want answers. We're demanding answers and we want them immediately," Wright said during the press conference.

The status of the employee, who has not been named, was not clear. Lindsey said the worker was suspended pending an investigation, but the school did not respond to ABC News' request for comment to confirm that or discuss the incident.

"They shouldn't have sent him home pending an investigation. He should have left that school in handcuffs. And that's why a lot of other parents are mad because, why hasn't he been arrested?" Lindsay said.

She added, "That is clearly assault on that video. That man should not have left that school, he should not be in society around other people's kids. We don't know what this man is doing. He should have been locked up."

The Dayton Police Department told ABC News on Thursday that the case has been presented to the Montgomery County Prosecutors Office.

On Wednesday, David Lawrence, the interim superintendent at DPS, said in a statement posted to the school system's website in response to the incident that the district in response would be taking additional measures "to ensure all 2,300 employees are properly trained and qualified for their positions in an effort to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future."

"Fitness for duty will be measured in terms of job qualification, training, and social-emotional health and well-being," Lawrence said in the online statement, adding that he plans to meet with concerned parents at Rosa Parks Early Learning Center early next week to discuss the incident.

PHOTO: Braylan Tootle, 3, is seen in this undated family handout. (Wright & Schulte)

"The way Dayton Public Schools handled this situation was absolutely shameful. They lie to this family. They kept them in the dark. They were not being transparent, and they have to be held accountable," Wright said.

MORE: Man shares his life on TikTok to celebrate limb differences

He added, "For the Dayton Police Department, why has there not been an arrest? For the prosecutor's office, why has there not been any formal charges against this teacher's aide, paraprofessional? So we are requesting an arrest. We are requesting charges, and we are requesting that the Dayton public school system be transparent with this family."

The family said they first learned of the incident that occurred on Aug. 21 upon picking up their son from school. They said the school mentioned that an incident had happened but were vague and failed to provide additional details. The family said they were later contacted by Child Protective Services, who were investigating the incident, and the family was told to request video of the incident as it was "way worse than what the school put on paper."

Doctors have been treating Braylen since the incident and continue to provide medical care, a representative for the family told ABC News. The family said they are waiting to hear if there are any long-term effects from this incident.

This is a very disturbing video and our hearts are with this child and his family. Montgomery County Children Services cannot share any detail on involvement, as all Children Services case files are confidential under Ohio law, Deb Decker, Director of Montgomery County Communications and Public Affairs, told ABC News in a statement.

Robert Tootle, the boy's father, said during the press conference that he already lived in fear something could happen to his son.

"You say something to a kid that's non-verbal, you don't get a response, so we wouldn't know," Tootle said. "We wouldn't have a clue what was going on with our kid."

"Our kids need help, society needs to be educated on autism, and they need to be trained to deal with these kids," Lindsay said.

Parents of non-verbal boy with autism demand answers after video shows school employee striking son originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Five years into a federal probe of his personal and professional life, President Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, is facing additional legal exposure in the coming months after a summer punctuated by setbacks.

U.S. Attorney David Weiss, a Trump-era appointee who has since been elevated to special counsel, has indicted the younger Biden on felony gun charges after a plea deal between the two parties fell apart in a Delaware courtroom in July.

MORE: What to know about the Hunter Biden investigations

Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy this week said he would initiate an impeachment inquiry against President Biden over his alleged role in his son's influence-peddling, despite a dearth of concrete evidence.

Here's a timeline of Hunter Biden's legal and political scrutiny.

Dec. 10, 2020

A month after Joe Biden wins the 2020 presidential election, Hunter Biden announces that federal prosecutors in Delaware are investigating his "tax affairs."

A source with knowledge of the investigation tells ABC News that the tax probe began in 2018, but that the U.S. attorney's office in Delaware waited to notify Hunter Biden's legal team due to sensitivities around the election.

Investigators are looking into Hunter's business dealings in China and elsewhere, including scrutinizing whether he may have committed tax crimes stemming from those overseas business dealings, sources tell ABC News.

Dec. 21, 2020

Outgoing Attorney General William Barr says he doesn't intend to appoint a special counsel to investigate Hunter Biden, as President Donald Trump and others have suggested.

April 2, 2021

In a new memoir, Hunter Biden addresses many of the topics that emerged as fodder for his father's political foes during the presidential campaign, including his struggles with substance addiction, his dealings in China, and his seat on the board of a Ukrainian oil and gas firm during his father's tenure as vice president -- a role that later led to then-President Donald Trump's first impeachment trial on charges that Trump pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to investigate Hunter Biden's position on the board. Trump was subsequently acquitted.

The memoir, titled "Beautiful Things," also offers lurid details as it chronicles the younger Biden's repeated relapses into drug and alcohol abuse.

March 30, 2022

ABC News reports that the federal investigation into Hunter Biden over his tax affairs has intensified, according to sources.

Sources say a number of witnesses have appeared before a grand jury Wilmington, Delaware, in recent months, and have been asked about payments Hunter Biden received while serving on the board of directors of Ukrainian natural gas company Burisma, as well as about how he paid off tax obligations in recent years.

Nov. 17, 2022

Fresh off the GOP regaining control of the Senate in the midterm elections, congressional Republicans say they're poised to push ahead with an investigation into President Joe Biden's family, including Hunter Biden, in the coming session.

Reps. Jim Jordan of Ohio and James Comer of Kentucky, two high-ranking members expected to helm powerful committees when Republicans take control of Congress in January, pledge to "pursue all avenues" of wrongdoing, calling investigations into the president's family a "top priority."

Dec. 21, 2022

Ahead of an expected deluge of Republican probes, Hunter Biden retains high-powered defense lawyer Abbe Lowell to help navigate congressional oversight.

March 1, 2023

Testifying in his annual oversight hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Attorney General Merrick Garland says that U.S. Attorney David Weiss has been told he has "full authority" to make any charging decisions stemming from the Hunter Biden investigation, even if that would involve bringing a case in a district outside of Delaware.

Garland also says he has pledged to Weiss any resources necessary to conduct his investigation, and has received no reports thus far of the his investigation being stymied in any way by personnel at the main Justice Department.

March 17, 2023

Attorneys for Hunter Biden file counterclaims alleging invasion of privacy in response to a defamation lawsuit brought by Delaware-based computer repairman John Paul Mac Isaac, who they say triggered the infamous laptop controversy in the weeks leading up to the 2020 presidential election.

The counterclaim is in response to an ongoing defamation lawsuit against Hunter Biden and others that was filed in October 2019 by Mac Isaac, who Hunter Biden's attorney say obtained and later disseminated data from a laptop allegedly belonging to the younger Biden.

April 20, 2023

ABC News reports that a supervisor at the IRS has told lawmakers that he has information that suggests the Biden administration could be mishandling the investigation into Hunter Biden, according to sources.

In a letter to lawmakers obtained by ABC News, the lawyer for the IRS whistleblower says his client is an IRS criminal supervisory special agent "who has been overseeing the ongoing and sensitive investigation of a high-profile, controversial subject since early 2020 and would like to make protected whistleblower disclosures to Congress."

The letter says that "The protected disclosures: (1) contradict sworn testimony to Congress by a senior political appointee, (2) involve failure to mitigate clear conflicts of interest in the ultimate disposition of the case, and (3) detail examples of preferential treatment and politics improperly infecting decisions and protocols that would normally be followed by career law enforcement professionals in similar circumstances if the subject were not politically connected."

May 3, 2023

ABC News reports that the GOP-led House Oversight Committee has issued a subpoena demanding the FBI produce a record related to an alleged "criminal scheme involving then-Vice President Joe Biden and a foreign national."

The subpoena seeks an unclassified FD-1023 document, which is generally defined as a report from an informant. The White House denounces the contents of the document as "anonymous innuendo."

May 16, 2023

Attorneys for the IRS whistleblower inform key members of Congress that their client -- along with his "entire investigative team" -- has been removed from the probe into the president's son. The Justice Department defers comment to U.S. Attorney David Weiss, who does not comment on the claim.

PHOTO: Hunter Biden departs federal court after a plea hearing on two misdemeanor charges of willfully failing to pay income taxes in Wilmington, Del., July 26, 2023. (Jonathan Ernst/Reuters, FILE)

June 5, 2023

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer announces his intention to initiate contempt of Congress hearings over FBI Director Chris Wray's refusal to physically turn over the FD-1023 document that Republicans believe is related to President Joe Biden.

June 20, 2023

Hunter Biden agrees to plead guilty to a pair of tax-related misdemeanors and enter into a pretrial diversion agreement that would enable him to avoid prosecution on one felony gun charge, potentially ending the yearslong probe.

According to the agreement, the younger Biden will acknowledge his failure to pay taxes on income he received in 2017 and 2018, until they were paid in 2020 by a third party, identified by ABC News as attorney and confidant Kevin Morris. In exchange, prosecutors will recommend probation, meaning Hunter Biden will likely avoid prison time. For the gun charge, he will agree to pretrial diversion, with the charge being dropped if he adheres to certain terms.

June 21, 2023

U.S. Judge Maryellen Noreika sets a court date of July 26 for Hunter Biden to make his initial court appearance related to the plea deal he has agreed to.

June 22, 2023

The GOP-led House Ways and Means Committee releases transcripts of their interviews with two IRS whistleblowers that they say show that senior Biden administration officials stymied U.S. Attorney David Weiss' investigation into Hunter Biden. In their testimony, the whistleblowers claim that senior Justice Department officials blocked prosecutors' attempts to bring charges against Hunter Biden in Washington and California, and refused to grant Weiss special counsel status.

Justice Department officials dispute the claim, saying, "As both the Attorney General and U.S. Attorney David Weiss have said, U.S. Attorney Weiss has full authority over this matter, including responsibility for deciding where, when, and whether to file charges as he deems appropriate. He needs no further approval to do so."

MORE: IRS whistleblowers claimed senior officials stymied efforts to prosecute Hunter Biden

June 23, 2023

ABC News reports that House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer has been given access the redacted FD-1023 document that allegedly contains claims about what Comer calls a "criminal scheme involving then-Vice President Biden and a foreign national relating to the exchange of money for policy decisions." But Comer tells reporters that reading the document was "a total waste of my time," as more than half of the document was redacted. Rep. Jamie Raskin, the ranking Democrat on the Oversight panel, says the Trump-era Justice Department investigated the claims and, "in August 2020, Attorney General [William] Barr and his hand-picked U.S. Attorney signed off on closing the assessment."

Congressional Republicans have also seized on a July 2017 WhatsApp message in which the younger Biden purportedly threatened a Chinese business associate by invoking his father's political connections, allegedly writing, "I am sitting here with my father and we would like to understand why the commitment made has not been fulfilled. Tell the director that I would like to resolve this now before it gets out of hand, and now means tonight."

"And, Z, if I get a call or text from anyone involved in this other than you, Zhang, or the chairman, I will make certain that between the man sitting next to me and every person he knows and my ability to forever hold a grudge that you will regret not following my direction," the message continues. "I am sitting here waiting for the call with my father."

At the time of the message, Joe Biden's term as vice president had already ended and he held no political office. But Republicans say the message undercuts President Biden's claim that he never discussed overseas business endeavors with his son. Ian Sams, a White House spokesperson, reiterates that "the president was not in business with his son."

Meanwhile, Attorney General Merrick Garland disputes outright the IRS' whistleblowers' claim that Trump-appointed U.S. Attorney David Weiss had requested to be named a special counsel but was turned down, saying, "Mr. Weiss never made that request to me."

June 26, 2023

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, regarding the IRS whistleblowers' claim that Garland turned down Weiss' request to be named a special counsel in the Hunter Biden probe, tells Fox News, "If it comes true what the IRS whistleblower is saying, we're going to start impeachment inquiries on the attorney general."

MORE: McCarthy considers impeachment inquiry of AG Merrick Garland over Hunter Biden

July 12, 2023

ABC News reports that Weiss has pushed back on the IRS whistleblowers' allegations, writing in a letter to Sen. Lindsey Graham of the Senate Judiciary Committee: "To clarify an apparent misperception and to avoid future confusion, I wish to make one point clear: in this case, I have not requested Special Counsel designation."

Separately, in an appearance before the House Judiciary Committee, FBI Director Christopher Wray is asked by Rep. Matt Gaetz, "Are you protecting the Bidens?"

"Absolutely not," Wray answers.

July 13, 2023

Hunter Biden's attorney Abbe Lowell sends a cease-and-desist letter to Trump's legal team claiming that Trump's rhetoric on social media and elsewhere "could lead to [Hunter Biden's] or his family's injury."

"This is not a false alarm," Lowell writes. "You should make clear to Mr. Trump -- if you have not done so already -- that Mr. Trump's words have caused harm in the past and threaten to do so again if he does not stop."

July 19, 2023

In congressional testimony, the two IRS whistleblowers -- 14-year IRS veteran Gary Shapley and IRS investigator Joseph Ziegler, who has previously been unidentified -- reiterate their claims that Justice Department officials stymied Weiss' probe of Hunter Biden.

"It appeared to me, based on what I experienced, that the U.S. Attorney in Delaware in our investigation was constantly hamstrung, limited and marginalized by DOJ officials," Ziegler says. "I still think that a special counsel is necessary for this investigation."

July 20, 2023

In an unusual move, Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, releases the FD-1023 document containing a confidential FBI informant's unverified claim that, years ago, the Biden family "pushed" a Ukrainian oligarch to pay them millions of dollars.

The document cites an unnamed source who says that in 2015, Mykola Zlochevsky, the chief executive of Burisma -- the Ukrainian energy firm that hired Hunter Biden as a board member in 2013 -- claimed that he was "forced" to pay Joe and Hunter Biden $5 million each, apparently in exchange for orchestrating the firing of a Ukrainian prosecutor named Viktor Shokin who was purportedly investigating Burisma at the time.

The assertion that the elder Biden, who was then vice president, acted to have Shokin removed in an effort to protect Burisma has been undercut by widespread criticism of the former Ukrainian prosecutor that led the U.S. State Department itself to seek Shokin's ouster.

A White House spokesperson, responding to the document's release, says "congressional Republicans, in their eagerness to go after President Biden regardless of the truth, continue to push claims that have been debunked for years."

MORE: In rare move, senator releases unverified FBI source report alleging Biden bribe

July 24. 2023

Under questioning from reporters, White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre reiterates that President Biden "was never in business with his son."

July 26, 2023

Hunter Biden appears before U.S. Judge Maryellen Noreika to formally agree to the plea deal negotiated in June -- but during a contentious hearing, Judge Noreika defers the deal after taking issue with the structure of the arrangement.

Noreika requests additional briefings from the parties before she'll determine next steps. In the meantime, Hunter Biden enters a plea of not guilty.

July 31, 2023

Former Hunter Biden associate Devon Archer testifies before the House Oversight panel, telling legislators that Burisma, through Hunter Biden, benefitted by its association with the so-called "Biden brand" -- but that Hunter Biden only provided the "illusion of access" to his father and did not discuss his business dealings with him, according to committee members who participated in the closed-door hearing.

Aug. 3, 2023

House Republicans release the complete transcript of Devon Archer's testimony before the Oversight panel, which include his recollection that Hunter Biden put his father on speakerphone or referenced his father being on the phone in front of business associates "maybe 20 times" in the 10 years that Archer and Hunter Biden were business associates -- which included a period when Biden was vice president -- but that Joe Biden's interactions with Hunter Biden's associates were "not related to commercial business" and that Joe Biden had no involvement with Burisma or took any actions to benefit Burisma or Hunter Biden, according to the fully transcribed interview with the committee.

Archer confirms that he was not aware of any wrongdoing by President Biden, according to the transcription.

Aug. 11, 2023

Attorney General Merrick Garland appoints Delaware U.S. Attorney David Weiss as special counsel in his investigation of Hunter Biden, after the Trump appointee asked Garland to be appointed special counsel in the case.

Weiss says in court documents filed within minutes of his appointment that plea negotiations have reached "an impasse" and that he intends to drop the misdemeanor tax charges against Hunter Biden in Delaware and instead bring them in California and Washington, D.C., where prosecutors say the alleged misconduct occurred.

MORE: Special counsel appointed in Hunter Biden case as plea deal reaches 'impasse'

Aug. 14, 2023

Attorneys for Hunter Biden say in a court filing that federal prosecutors reneged on the plea deal that would have resolved tax and gun charges against Hunter Biden.

Despite their acknowledgement that the plea agreement on tax charges is "moot," attorneys for Hunter Biden argue that the second part of the deal -- a diversion agreement on a separate gun charge -- remains in effect, since it is a separate contract negotiated and entered into by the parties outside the judge's purview.

Aug. 15, 2023

In court filings, prosecutors for Weiss push back on Hunter Biden's assertion that they "reneged" on the ill-fated plea deal, and dispute defense counsel's claim that the diversion agreement on a gun possession charge remains "valid and binding."

Sept. 6, 2023

Court documents filed by special counsel David Weiss say that Weiss intends to bring an indictment against Hunter Biden by the end of the month, pertaining to the felony gun charge that was previously brought under the pretrial diversion agreement brokered by the two parties.

Hunter Biden's legal team argues that the pretrial diversion agreement remains in effect.

"We believe the signed and filed diversion agreement remains valid and prevents any additional charges from being filed against Mr. Biden," says Abbe Lowell, an attorney for Hunter Biden. "We expect a fair resolution of the sprawling, 5-year investigation into Mr. Biden that was based on the evidence and the law, not outside political pressure."

Sept. 14, 2023

Hunter Biden is indicted by special counsel David Weiss on felony charges that he lied on a federal form when he said he was drug-free at the time that he purchased a Colt Cobra 38SPL revolver in October 2018. His legal team maintains that the pretrial diversion agreement from July remains in effect, though Weiss' team says it's null and void.

"As expected, prosecutors filed charges today that they deemed were not warranted just six weeks ago following a five-year investigation into this case," Hunter Biden attorney Abbe Lowell says in a statement. "We believe these charges are barred by the agreement the prosecutors made with Mr. Biden, the recent rulings by several federal courts that this statute is unconstitutional, and the facts that he did not violate that law, and we plan to demonstrate all of that in court."

Timeline: Hunter Biden under legal, political scrutiny originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
While many world-renowned wine regions reside in European countries like Italy, France, and Spain, there is something to be enjoyed with the vineyards in the United States as well. The U.S. doesn't produce as much wine as some other countries do, but there is still an expansive list of vineyards and regions that are well worth your attention and time. Spots like Napa Valley and Sonoma in California are some of the most well-known wine destinations in the U.S., while true oneophiles know that you can find incredible wine all over the country, from the Midwest to the Northeast.

The climate, soil, and types of grapes grown are a few things that ultimately affect the wine, so each of these states offer something slightly different in terms of taste and quality. Here, the states with the best vineyards in the U.S.

California

It should come as no surprise that California has some of the most highly rated wineries and vineyards in the entire country. The state's climate and landscapespecifically its warm days and cool nightsmake it ideal for grape-growing. They have more than four times the amounts of wineries as the next closest state, with a total of over 6,000. Standout wine regions include Paso Robles, Sonoma, Napa Valley, and Los Carneros.

leezsnow - Getty Images

Washington

Washington is the second largest wine-producing state in the country, with over 1,000 wineries to speak of. The state produces award-winning wines and has been gaining a stellar reputation over the last several years. Washington Wine Country consists of Tri-Cities, Walla Walla Valley, and Yakima Valley. Its location in the Northwest U.S. means that during the growing season, the area gets up to 17 hours of sunlight, and the climate and geography make the state an ideal spot for growing grapes.

Terry Eggers - Getty Images

Texas

It may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of wine, but it should be. As of 2022, Texas was the state with the third largest amount of wineries, and it was actually the first state to have a winery in the 1600s. The dry weather and long, hot summers, as well as the cold winters, make it a great spot for grape growing. Texas Hill Country boasts a number of vineyards, with a climate similar to the wine regions in Spain and Portugal.

Dean Fikar - Getty Images

Oregon

Oregon and Texas have nearly the same amount of wineries, with Oregon just slightly behind. Regions like Portland, Willamette Valley, Columbia Gorge, and Rogue Valley are all known for producing delicious wines, and help give the state its reputation for delivering high quality options. The state is known for pinot noir, pinot gris, chardonnay, syrah, cabernet sauvignon, and riesling, as well as many others.

aimintang - Getty Images

New York

New York's wine reputation is steadily growing, with several wine-producing regions throughout the state and hundreds of celebrated vineyards and wineries. In terms of volume of wine produced, New York is ranked third in the country at the moment. The main wine regions are found in Niagara and Lake Erie, the Finger Lakes, the Hudson River wine region, and the East End of Long Island. Each region is known for a different type of wine. For example, the Finger Lakes are known for their riesling production, while Long Island is known for merlot and cabernet franc.

Bob Pool - Getty Images

Michigan

There are hundreds of wineries to visit throughout the state of Michigan, with unique glacial soils in the area behind the success of its wines. It is the fifth largest wine-producing state in the U.S., and many of the vineyards are located along Lake Michigan, where the "lake effect" helps extend the growing season. Lake Michigan is known for reds like cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, and merlot, while the Leelanau Peninsula region is known for whites like pinot blanc, pinot grigio, and riesling. Inland, you'll find hybrid grapes like marquette, frontenac, and vidal blanc for something more unique.



Nicholas Sollogub / 500px - Getty Images

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has been building a reputation as a great state for wine production. The state has over 400 wineries and thousands of acres of vineyards that produce millions of gallons of wine each year. The climate of Pennsylvania makes it easy to grow European grapes like pinot noir and albarino, thanks to the hot summers and cold winters. Popular wine trails can be found in Hershey Harrisburg Wine Country, the Lake Erie Wine Region, and Brandywine Valley, among others.

Edwin Remsberg - Getty Images

Virginia

Virginia has 10 wine regions and hundreds of wineries, with over 4,000 acres of grapes throughout the state. Popular regions include Blue Ridge, Central Virginia, Chesapeake Bay, and the Eastern Shore, and each region is known for a different type of wine. There are popular wine trails and super gorgeous vineyards to visit, and the state is known for chardonnay, cabernet franc, merlot, vidal blanc, and viognier.

Cavan Images - Getty Images

Ohio

Seven different wine trails make up the thriving wine country in Ohio, and these include Appalachian, Canal Country, Capital City, and the Ohio River. The wind coming off of Lake Eerie and glacial soil left behind are part of what makes Ohio such a great spot for grape growing. Riesling is an extremely popular wine from Ohio, and other award-winning options include chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, and cabernet franc.

Ali Majdfar - Getty Images

Missouri

Missouri has been producing wine for years, and it has become a more popular spot in the country in recent years. Wine regions in the state include Augusta, Central, Hermann, Ozark Highlands, Ozark Mountain, Southeast, and Western. You'll find hundreds of wineries worth visiting all over, especially in the historic German community Hermann. There are so many different kinds of wines produced, such as catawba, chardonel, and concorda bright wine made from American concord grapes.

larrybraunphotography.com - Getty Images

North Carolina

There are hundreds of wineries and vineyards in North Carolina, with regions in the mountains and on the coast. The high altitudes and cool nights of the mountain regions contribute to a booming wine industry, while Piedmont wineries found in central North Carolina are more similar to European wineries. A wide variety of different wine trails make this an exciting state to visit if you really love a good glass of vino.

Terrence Spalding / 500px - Getty Images

Colorado

Colorado's climate and landscape make it an excellent spot for vineyards and wineries. The warm valleys and plateaus combined with mountain runoff, lots of sunshine, and chilly nights make it easy to grow grapes. There are nine different wine regions throughout the state, and it's known for delicious options like merlot, cabernet sauvignon, syrah, chardonnay, riesling, cabernet franc, and viognier.

Christopher Thomas - Getty Images

You Might Also Like
No matter how much you enjoy your career, many of us would probably be lying if we said we never daydreamed about having a job where you can make a lot of money for comparatively little work.

While most of the jobs that come to mind for that category  like "nepo baby model" or "executive at a company your rich dad owns"  are pretty difficult to get without the right connections, there are some surprising, more accessible options out there.

A while back, redditor u/rabahi asked, "Whats a low-effort job with a surprisingly high salary?"

Here are 17 of the top answers:

1. "Owning a parking lot."

u/thatgreengentleman_ "My aunt and uncle own a fairly large field right outside a small town. They do all of their harvesting by the end of August. A HUGE harvest festival is held the second week of September. The town sees like half a million visitors in a weekend. They clean the fuck up every year by charging $12 a day to park. They even let people camp there and charge $45 a night for camping. They don't even do anything  they have a bunch of kids volunteer to park cars as part of school community service. They donate maybe a quarter of the earnings and pocket the rest for 'operational costs.'" u/Tlr321 Warner Bros. / Via youtube.com

2. "IT manager at a university. The techs know their jobs and their users, and they manage their own schedules and workloads among themselves. Managers basically just have to rubber-stamp time cards, confirm parts orders, and make sure the techs don't all take vacations at the same time."

3. "I worked as a massage 'model' at a massage school. My job was to lie there and be massaged for a few hours while the students did their lessons or took their exams. It was 30 an hour, which isnt loads, but better than the 10-an-hour office job I had before."

"Just to clarify, this wasnt a full-time job. It was fairly casual, probably between four and 10 hours a week, depending on how busy the school was that week, and only for maybe three or four months." u/scenecunt NBC / Max

4. "Business intelligence/data analyst. Do you know how to use Excel? Can you write basic SQL? Are you able to express yourself clearly and deal with getting variations of the same 10 questions for the rest of your career? Congrats, welcome to making $100,000 a year."

u/Goddamnpassword Nitat Termmee / Getty Images

5. "International pilot! I make $200,000 a year as a wide-body first officer. None of the decisions fall to me. I fly one leg to Europe (I get a couple of hours to nap on each leg). I get 2448 hours in a cool city, then I fly one leg home (with a couple-hour nap again on the way home). When I'm home, there is nothing I could conceivably do for work, so I just get to enjoy my many, many days off."

"Don't get me wrong, the training was intense, but man, my job now is stupid easy. "In the US, I got my ratings at a flight school, worked at a regional airline, then got hired at a major. It took a while to get here, but I'm in my 30s with so much time off, and work is so easy. Love it." u/Greedodode ABC / Via youtube.com

6. "When I was backpacking, I signed up with a temp agency in Sydney that would hire 'well-presented' front-of-house staff for corporate firms that liked to have a pretty, young, well-dressed person at the reception desk when their clients came. I often got paid $30$40 an hour to welcome clients, show them to their meeting room, pour some water, and order their catering. And that's all I did in fancy, beautiful offices overlooking Sydney Harbor Bridge, etc."

"Once their regular receptionist got back from leave, I'd be popped onto the next one. I did a stint at Sydney University at one of their newly built research centers. All I did was direct people to the elevators and the right part of the building for their meeting. I made enough money doing this to backpack through the entire east coast of Australia over three months." u/Suzettebishop89 Sony Pictures Releasing / Via youtube.com

7. "The bulk of my job is essentially helping ICU nurses get through annual basic life support. Now that it's all on computerized dummies, I basically just click the link for them, adjust the hand position, and then sit back. I watched Jurassic Park today because everyone is up-to-date. I make $120,000."

u/Roaming_Pie Pepmiba / Getty Images

8. "I do basic admin work for a city government. No degree required, $85,000 a year after three years (starting base is a little lower than that), full medical/dental/vision, and tons of PTO plus paid holidays. The work itself isn't particularly hard, but it is constant."

9. "Project manager for a US-based Fortune 200 company. It's permanent work from home. I make six figures, and I do maybe four hours of actual work each week. I have my home office setup where I have two gaming monitors connected to my gaming laptop sitting on my desk directly in front of me. Then I have my work laptop sitting to one side that's got the volume turned up so I hear if I get an email or message. When I do, I handle that, then go back to my personal laptop."

"Most days, I'm either playing video games, watching movies, browsing Reddit, studying for new certifications, or doing stuff around the house like laundry, dishes, cleaning rooms, food prep, etc. People on my team constantly say things like, 'Man, this workload is insane.' I've got the same and even more than some. It's so boring. But they're paying me to dick around most days." u/[deleted] Xavierarnau / Getty Images

10. "I sell granite and quartz countertops. At first, it was go, go, go to get fabricators to buy from me, but now that I'm established, I just sit here on my computer, answer a call, and submit the order, and then it's right back to Reddit."

"I actually have a Nintendo Switch hookup for my PC for when I have to work on Saturdays." u/SnooChipmunks5572 NBC / Via youtube.com

11. "My next-door neighbor works in a power station. His job is to sit in front of a monitor and make sure everything is working well. If something goes wrong, he calls the appropriate workstation and they fix the problem. Because an alarm sounds if something is out of sync (which rarely happens), he is able to play games or read a book 99% of the time. He is at $150 per hour to basically play games and chill at work."

u/spetzie55 Tero Vesalainen / Getty Images/iStockphoto

12. "Architectural 3D modeler and render guy, if you can land it (which is very difficult). Usually, firms hire out the work or they have interns do it. Some firms never have this setup, so I become that guy. I make around $90,000 in LA. Usually, I model buildings in 3D, texture, then render. It's fun, and no one bugs you."

"I have everything sort of automated, except for the building part. I give them around a week so I can get the renders out." u/omnigear Westend61 / Getty Images/Westend61

13. "Call center management. Not even something high up like operations or quality assurance  even being middle management can be lucrative. I've worked at a few call center jobs. The people on the bottom absolutely get fucked over, overworked, stressed out...but once you get to management, it's fucking easy. Last call center job I worked, I got promoted to management just due to how long I had been there. After the promotion, I was paid $50,000 a year to sit at home, listen to people do their job, fill out paperwork, and have the occasional web meeting. I spent more time playing video games and working out than anything else while on the clock."

"Funniest part to me is that when I gave my notice, they tried to offer me a promotion to stay because I was such a hard worker. I was super tempted to laugh and tell them how little work I actually did in a day." u/TheTrueGoldenboy NBC / Via youtube.com

14. "I do admin work for the government. My pay is $55,000. At best, I get five emails a day, with about two that actually concern me. No BS...on a super-busy day, I have about 45 minutes' worth of work to do."

15. "Driving the massive dump trucks that serve mines. Starting salary is like $70,000, and all you do is drive back and forth all day."

u/Wyrdeone Doug Berry / Getty Images

16. "Senior full-stack developer."

u/[deleted] "This, so much. I'm really confused why they keep paying us all this money. I chatted with a recruiter from another company last week who says his company would start me at a quarter mil USD if I pass the interview, and it's fully remote  I can live anywhere. "This is not a hard job." u/[deleted] USA Network / Via youtube.com

17. And finally: "Security project manager here for a global tech company. My job is to meet with my stakeholders once per month to collect updates on risks and write reports every now and then. Six figures, and I'm interviewing next week for a position that is $180,000$200,000 a year."

"I was actually having an existential crisis about this last night because I realized how income inequality is so fucked up. My job honestly doesn't matter or benefit society, but teachers and caregivers do, and it's just not fair. I worked 10 times harder while in retail and customer service than I do now." u/rainsoaked88 Xavierarnau / Getty Images

Have you ever worked a surprisingly low-effort, high-paying job? Share your experiences in the comments!

Note: Some responses have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Stock up before the holidays.

Getty Images

Costco might be best known for its affordable staples like extra-virgin olive oil, nuts and toilet paper but there's another item that you should add to your giant cart: wine. Much like the selection of high-quality products throughout Costco, the big-box shop's wine section features a wide range of choices, from very inexpensive bottles to those that ring up for more than $100. But how do you know what to pick? As a sommelier, I've spent a lot of time searching for the perfect bottles to pair with a meal. However, as a busy mom of four with a farm to run and a career writing recipes, I don't have the luxury of time. In other words, trips to specialty wine stores on a regular basis are a thing of the past. So, on a recent trip to buy diapers for my twins at Costco, I veered over to the wine section to see what they had.

While I've tasted most of the higher-end wines sold at Costco, all of which are sold at incredible prices there, this time I reached for the more affordable wines, picking bottles that were $20 or less. Some weren't my favorites as they tasted flat, flabby and more like fruity alcohol than wine. But others were surprisingly good, and I now pick up a bottle (or four) every time I'm there. Since the wines might vary by state, be sure to check out the grape varietals I picked too because while the exact wine might not be available at your Costco, there is likely something similar that's worth popping the cork on.

Kirkland Signature NV Brut Champagne, France ($19.99)

In order for a sparkling wine to be called Champagne, it must be made from grapes grown in the Champagne region of France. Typically, Champagne costs at least $40 because of the high cost of producing and marketing Champagne, but this bottle from Kirkland, the in-house brand at Costco, clocks in at just under $20. The Kirkland brand is all the wine without the hype or price. Bubbly wine always brings a celebratory feeling to parties and other special events, but with a sparkler this affordable, any occasionsuch as making it through Tuesdaycalls for cracking open a bottle.

Huber Vision Gruner Veltliner, Austria ($11.99)

I can't say enough good things about this wine and almost all gruner veltliners, as they hit all the right spots when it comes to easy-drinking white wines. Huber, which has been making wine for over 220 years, launched Vision as their first organic wine. The striking label features the blue eye of Edith Huber, the wife of winemaker Markus Huber. With only the slightest touch of fizziness and flavors of pear, lemon and white peach, this white pairs well with seafood, spicy Thai food and porches with sunshine, so grab a few bottles.

La Crema Chardonnay, Sonoma, California ($15.99)

Classic vanilla, oak, apple and pear flavors burst through the nose when you swirl this California chardonnay in your glass. Even though chardonnay is not usually my first choice, I pour this wine whenever I'm serving anything buttery, such as shrimp scampi, chicken piccata, gnocchi with brown butter sauce or even just mashed potatoes.

Gerard Bertrand Kosmos Red Blend, France ($9.89)

A quick search online and you'll see that this French red blend usually sells for at least $19, so when I saw it was at Costco for less than $10, I knew to snatch up a few bottles. Made from seven different red grapes, including Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this wine tastes like it was made as a French house wine for the local restaurant. It's not too complex and has aromas of ripe red cherries, raspberries, oak and a very slight touch of cloves. Pair it with grilled chicken, Bolognese or a burger.

Zaccagnini Montepulciano Reserve, Italy ($13.99)

I've always found that countries that take pride in their food tend to make wine that's meant to be drunk alongside the food instead of overpowering it. This Italian red, made from the Montepulciano grape, is the perfect example. Also known as the "Twig Wine" because of the piece of wood tied onto the bottle, this wine has flavors of oregano, thyme, plums and blackberries. This Italian red is the ideal foil for pizza, pasta and anything grilled.

Catena Cabernet Sauvignon, Argentina ($16.49)

Napa Valley might be famous for cabernet sauvignon but if you're looking for the best quality for the price, look no further than the Catena Cabernet Sauvignon from Chile. Catena's cabernet is made from grapes from four different high-altitude vineyards, which means the grapes produce slightly less sugar in the slightly cooler weather. This, in turn, means the Catena cabernet clocks in at 13.5% alcohol instead of the often 15% you'd see in Cab's from Napa. Lower alcohol translates to a softer, more balanced wine, a welcome cabernet in the sea of high-alcohol reds. Pair with steak, cheese or a really good burger.

Originally appeared: EatingWell.com, September 2023

Read the original article on Eating Well.
Lais Ribeiro first posed for the SI Swimsuit Issue in 2017, when the Brazilian model traveled to Indonesia with photographer James Macari. She returned to the fold in 18 and 19, when her photoshoots took her to the Bahamas and Costa Rica, respectively. After a brief hiatus, Ribeiro posed for the 2021 SI Swimsuit Issue in Sacramento, Calif., where she donned a number of dreamy looks.

While the 32-year-old is known for her work as a Victorias Secret Angel, shes also worked with notable brands like Dolce and Gabbana, Christian Dior and Ralph Lauren. During her most recent sit-down interview with SI Swimsuit, Ribeiro noted that being in the modeling industry has allowed her to become more comfortable in her own skin. Shes also conscious about the changes that need to take place in the fashion and modeling industries to make the space more inclusive.

I do see a lot of changing and empowerment in the industry, Ribeiro stated. But we have so many ways to go, you know, but at least people are talking about [it], people are really like changing. It changed so much, I think our industry was so in the box, you know. I think were just starting to open the box, and its like a long way to go, I think.

While Ribeiro continues to be the change she hopes to see in the industry, we continue to be astounded by her work. Below are eight of our favorite images from her photoshoot in Sacramento, Calif.

Anne Menke/Sports Illustrated

Anne Menke/Sports Illustrated

Anne Menke/Sports Illustrated

Anne Menke/Sports Illustrated

Anne Menke/Sports Illustrated

Anne Menke/Sports Illustrated

Anne Menke/Sports Illustrated

Anne Menke/Sports Illustrated

Make sure to follow SI Swimsuit on YouTube!
Cancun, Mexico, easily reachable via three-hour, non-stop flights from Lansings Capital Region International Airport, is sometimes perceived as a party destination. Spring breakers are more than welcome to whoop it up, but Xavier Destribats wants you to know you have an option at the cultured, Kempinski Cancun Resort, where vacationers can get sophistication with their sunshine.

As Kempinskis president and COO of the Americas, Destribats knows Latin luxury: he also oversees the brands three resort and business hotels in Cuba and beyond.

Kempinski Hotels, founded in 1897, is the oldest European brand, with 84 privately-owned, unique properties worldwide. We like to open hotels in historic buildings and even palaces, he explained. For our guests, every moment becomes a masterpiece.

Even for me: on the rooftop pool deck, Destribats gently replaced the cola I was drinking with a glass of sauvignon blanc. Drink wine. It is healthier for you, he said in his non-judgmental, humorous tone. Destribats is all sophistication with no snobbery  as are the Kempinski Hotels.

Five-star service has reached the beach in Cancun with its powdery white sand along the turquoise-blue Caribbean Sea with Kempinskis 363 rooms overlooking the oasis. Kempinski Cancun feels blissfully remote but convenient since it is in the vibrant hotel zone 25-minutes from downtown and the airport. Kayanta is the Mayan word for renewal, and the name of the hotels spa, which uses indigenous ingredients in wellness treatments. Kayanta Spa is described as a decadent place of respite.

Travelers who appreciate a variety and gourmet food and wine fear Cancuns all inclusive resort plans which can leave their palates trapped with redundant on-site menus and buffets. Kempinski Cancun eschews the all-inclusive model for a la carte cuisine curated by epicurean chefs using local ingredients and supplemented by sommeliers in its six bars and restaurants. It is the same accommodating European plan used at their historic properties in world cities such as Istanbul, Dubai, Singapore, Cairo and Dresden.

Destribats, born and raised in Frances famed Bordeau wine region, has managed hotels in Mexico, Israel, Paris, Geneva, Japan and Cuba. His long professional career began with a posting in Cancun  and so he has come full circle.

Although I have a house in France, home is where I am at any given moment, he insisted. The hospitality industry has given him a life, and he has advice for students in MSUs School of Hospitality Management. You will always have work in hotels and restaurants. To be sure to always have a job, hospitality is a great industry. You need to have a passion, though, because you will work long hours. These are not eight-hour days. And very often you must be entertaining.

The reward for dedication, according to Destribats, is the ability to travel and see the world and experience its different cultures.

I was always impressed that my father invited people to our home. It was more welcoming than taking them to a restaurant. We were six children sitting at the dinner table with the guests. I had to wear a tie. And then a lady came in with white gloves serving at the table. This is how I started to like hospitality, so I went to hotel school in Switzerland.

Destribats wife also studied hotel management, as did his son, who is now in Munich. Vacation for the Destribats means visiting their son and their daughter in Innsbruck. His career, during which Hyatt once named him General Manager of the Year, was not always as smooth as the Bordeau he sips.

My first hotel in Cancun was destroyed by a hurricane. So, I moved to a job in Jerusalem where I encountered the missiles of the first Gulf War, he revealed. Destribats was also in Japan during the earthquake and tsunami that resulted in a nuclear power plant disaster.

My friends are afraid to travel with me, he joked. But Japan is great for a hotelier because the Japanese insist on top quality: the best food, cutlery, uniforms everything. They eat out almost every evening so the restaurants are always full.

It was in Tokyo, where his hotel was next to a cinema, that Destribats was able to meet Clint Eastwood, Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise and even billionaire inventor Bill Gates. My conversation with Mr. Gates totaled five words from him: I welcomed him to the hotel and he said, Thank you. In the elevator I asked how his flight was and he answered, Good. When I delivered him to his room, he said, Thank you.

Obviously, a diplomat, Destribats has learned to vary his management style. You do not manage your team in Cancun the way you manage your team in Japan or Geneva. You adapt to the local culture. That does not mean you have to compromise your standards and morale. You teach about the brand and luxury. And you must not lose your temper anywhere.

Contact Michael Patrick Shiels at MShiels@aol.com His radio program may be found aMiBigShow.comor weekday mornings from 9-noon on WJIM AM 1240

This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Cancun confidential: Kempinski Hotel and secrets of a career in hospitality
NEW YORK, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- A lawsuit announced on Monday accuses Beverly Hills police of racially profiling nearly 1,100 black people who were pulled over during traffic stops in the wealthy city in California between August 2019 and August 2021, reported The Associated Press (AP) on Tuesday.

Out of a total of 1,088 black motorists stopped, only two were convicted of crimes, attorney Benjamin Crump said at a news conference, adding about a third of all arrests made during the period involved blacks, who make up only 1.5 percent of the city's population. The suit seeks 500 million U.S. dollars in damages.

The city denied the allegations, saying in a statement that "the statistics presented referencing the number of convictions is a mischaracterization of the evidence in this case."

"In addition, the 1,088 arrests referenced include people cited and released, not just custodial arrests," the statement said.

"The City of Beverly Hills is an international destination that always welcomes visitors from across the country and around the world," it noted. "The role of the Beverly Hills Police Department is to enforce the law, regardless of race." 
Accessory and fashion jewelry brand CHARLES & KEITH wants to instantly boost wearers' confidence, one pair of shoes or handbag at a time. Originating as a single shoe shop in Singapore, it has now grown into a global, aspirational label that inspires individuals to express themselves to the fullest. Embraced by some of the most sartorially-skilled stars in the spotlight  including Olivia Rodrigo and BLACKPINKs Jennie  the brand surely knows how to create pieces that keep fashion lovers heads on a swivel. From bulbous handbags transported straight from the future to chunky statement shoes, CHARLES & KEITH continues to create pieces that align with contemporary trendsetters while allowing wearers to impart their own personal flair onto each.

Collaboration is at the heart of the brand since it additionally uplifts emerging designers, visual artists, and musicians. Bringing the CHARLES & KEITH touch to Seoul Fashion Week, the brand partnered with Korean labels Heeyonghee Studio and Seeokwoon Yoon for their runway showcases, providing edgy accessories from its Fall 2023 Collection to round out each of the two designers eclectic collections. Continuing that same collaborative spirit, the brand additionally debuted a capsule collection with surrealist illustrator Henn Kim titled Heart is Every Wear  and it is a monochrome lovers dream.

Ahead of the capsules debut at the new CHARLES & KEITH flagship store in South Korea, Hypebae chatted with Henn Kim about her artistic decisions, the intention behind the collection, and what it means to share her openness and vulnerability with the world.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by CHARLES & KEITH (@charleskeithofficial)

Hypebae: Tell me your artist origin story. What originally inspired you to begin illustrating?

Henn Kim: I didn't talk much at the very beginning of my emotional difficulties. Writing was not enough to express my emotions, I just wanted to meld my feelings into something unique. I started creating black and white drawings as a young girl to process my emotions and that's where I started with my artistic style.

Anything creative is a great way to get outside your head and process the things youre going through.

Its very difficult for me to not lean on creativity.

Your work usually addresses complex emotions, especially deeper emotions or feelings that are not always publicly discussed. How does this capsule play upon your works signature themes?

When I was working on this collection, I wanted everyone out there to have an item that symbolized the heart  just like every individual has their own heart. That is why I chose that illustration; I think the heart is the medium through which people can actually come together and interact with their feelings and emotions collectively. The theme itself is not unique because it is just expressing very basic feelings about the connectedness of people.

This collection is all about self-expression. How do you wear your heart on your sleeve day in and day out?

I try to use my emotions as a form of self-expression. I don't really care about other people's thoughts. If you look at my other work, it's all based on my emotions, so I'm literally wearing my heart on my Instagram, through my work, and putting it all out there.

Why do you choose to portray all of your works in black and white?

Many people regard black as a sad color and I wanted to break that prejudice or bias. The initial reason I began drawing in black and white was to give a very strong contrast, strongly delivering my message. My version of black and white is really like a rainbow.

How does it feel to know that CHARLES & KEITH as a brand, has admired your work? What values do you share with the brand?

Collaborating with CHARLES & KEITH has been amazing; I've always liked how they've introduced black, edgy accessories to the people. And they were very open-minded when it came to my art. CHARLES & KEITH and I also share the same goal of wanting the ladies who use our products to be more confident and outspoken. We want to boost the confidence within.

How do you hope to see people styling the CHARLES & KEITH x Henn Kim capsule collection?

When I was initially thinking of this collection, I wasn't just thinking about one person or celebrity fitting into this collection, but also older audiences  I want everyone to create their own ways of styling. It's been amazing to see how everyone puts the pieces together in their own ways and expresses themselves creatively.
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

If you have roots in Mississippi, odds are you've heard of comeback sauce. This topping resembles Thousand Island, a creamy salad dressing with a tangy flavor. However, it packs a spicy kick that makes it unique. Comeback sauce typically starts with two main ingredients: mayonnaise and ketchup. It can also include Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion, and mustard. The spicy component can come from either chili sauce or hot sauce.

Each of the ingredients serves an essential purpose. The ketchup provides sweetness, while the mayonnaise lends the sauce its creamy texture. Worcestershire sauce adds flavor, much like salt and other seasonings. Some recipes even call for honey because it ties the contrasting flavors together.

Though not entirely similar, many people liken comeback sauce to Raising Cane's sauce or Chick-fil-A sauce. Both sauces fit the description, as they're creamy, tangy, savory, and smoky. These sauces are tailored for chicken, which leads to the next question: What is comeback sauce used for?

Read more: The Absolute Best Wings In The U.S.

Common Uses Of Comeback Sauce

Onion rings - Gmvozd/Getty Images

Comeback sauce was originally made for salads, and many people still use it as a way to spruce up leafy greens. However, its uses have expanded to include a large variety of foods. Oftentimes, it's used as a dipping sauce for fried foods such as chicken nuggets and tenders, onion rings, and fish. It's also commonly paired with french fries.

All in all, the sauce is pretty versatile. Mississippi locals use it on just about everything. "Growing up in Mississippi, we dipped crackers in it, put it on salads, fish, shrimp, [and] fried green tomatoes," television Chef Cat Cora wrote in an email to The New York Times.

Sometimes, social media users share the unique ways they incorporate it. In a June 2023 Reddit thread, one poster created homemade comeback sauce to pair with cheese sliders and fries. In another thread, a Redditor claimed to have tried comeback sauce at their local Arby's. After trying it with chicken, they concluded that it would be a good topping for a sandwich. "[I] might swap honey mustard for [comeback sauce] on a chicken bacon Swiss sometime," they wrote. This ketchup and mayonnaise-based wonder can be used on just about anything.

The History Of The Mississippi Staple

Fried chicken in a basket - Jupiterimages/Getty Images

If you're a fan of comeback sauce, there's one Jackson, Mississippi restaurant to thank. In 1935, The Rotisserie, a local restaurant owned by Greek immigrants, invented the sauce as its house salad dressing. (Another theory that the sauce debuted at Jackson's Mayflower Cafe was squashed in 2016.) Owner Alex Dennery called his creation Kum-Bak sauce, joking that once customers tried the dressing, they would come back for more. Its name also refers to the way locals say their goodbyes. Often, Mississippians substitute "goodbye" with "y'all come back." Sadly, The Rotisserie is long gone, but its memory lives on with the iconic sauce.

Although unlikely, this Mediterranean sauce rose to become a mainstay at nearly every Mississippi eatery. It has also become an essential pairing for dishes such as Mississippi chicken, leading food writer Robert St. John to tout comeback sauce as "the Queen Mother of all Mississippi condiments."

Where To Find Comeback Sauce

Comeback sauce - Fanfo/Shutterstock

The simplest way to acquire authentic comeback sauce is to visit Mississippi. Of course, this isn't realistic for the majority of people. Another option would be to make it at home, which requires ketchup, mayonnaise, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and onion, among other ingredients, depending on the recipe. However, if you're looking for simplicity, there are plenty of places online where you can purchase sauce that's equal to the real deal.

Duke's Mississippi Comeback Southern Sauce, available on Amazon, has received high marks from people who grew up in the area. "I'm a Mississippi guy born and raised ... it's so very close [to the locally made sauce], and it's absolutely amazing," read one review. Another website, Crooked Letter, sells bottled Mississippi Comeback Sauce for about $9. The website's description describes it as "classic comeback sauce with a French twist," though there still aren't any reviews to validate these claims.

Read the original article on Mashed.


"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."



PRIME VIDEO's THE Wheel of Time features all of the aspects that make a fantasy series great: a sprawling mythical world, intriguing characters, and stunning visual effects. Based on the novel series of the same name by Robert Jordan , the series premiered in 2021, and it was quickly renewed for a second and third season.

Starring knockout actors like Rosamund Pike, Daniel Henney, and Sophie Okonedo, the series follows Moiraine, who is a member of a powerful organization called the Aes Sedai. Following an attack, she and her companion Lan venture to a village named Two Rivers to try and find the person who is the physical reincarnation of the Dragon, as a prophecy says that the individual will either save the world or destroy it.

The second season of the show just finished, and fans are eagerly awaiting Season 3. It may be a while before the high-budget fantasy series returns, so in the meantime, you'll need something to keep you busy. Even better, some shows, like Game of Thrones and The Witcher, have their own book series you can start reading as well just like Wheel of Time (depending on who you are, you may even prefer one medium of the stories over the other). There's more than one way to get your fantasy fix right now, and it's arguably one of the best times to be a fan of both books and fantasy shows.Here are 10 shows to start binging after The Wheel of Time.

Game of Thrones (2011 - 2019)

This one needs no introduction, but in case you need a refresher, GoT is based on the fantasy novels by George R. R. Martin, and it follows several characters, from noble families to weary soldiers, with the storyline primarily following a super-expansive fight for control of the Iron Throne. Gory, complex, and the winner of 59 Emmys.

Stream It Here

See the original post on Youtube

His Dark Materials (2019 - 2022)

Based on the trilogy of novels by Philip Pullman, this BBC One/HBO series is set in a world where the souls of humans manifest as animals, or daemons. A young girl named Lyra gets caught in the journey of a lifetime after she searches for her missing friend and uncovers new worlds.

Stream It Here

See the original post on Youtube

Carnival Row (2019 - 2023)

Although it lasted just two seasons, the Orlando Bloom-led show is still worth a watch. It features mythical creatures and an investigation into conspiracies and a string of unsolved murders.

Stream It Here

See the original post on Youtube

Shadow and Bone (2021 - )

Adapted from a series of books by Leigh Bardugo, Shadow and Bone tells the story of Alina, an orphan that finds out shes a Sun Summoner, or someone with the rare ability to control light. It also turns out that her power might just change the war-torn world around her.

Stream It Here

See the original post on Youtube

The Witcher (2019 - )

Henry Cavill plays Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter that is linked to Princess Ciri of Cintra. He becomes her protector and helps fight against those that are trying to take her Elder Blood and magic and use it for evil. The Witcher is based on the book series of the same name by Andrzej Sapkowski.

Stream It Here

See the original post on Youtube

The Magicians (2015 - 2020)

Picture thisyou enroll at an academy to be trained as a magician, and while there, you find out that the magical world from your favorite childhood novel is real but it poses a very real danger to the real world. Quentin Coldwaters story unfolds over five seasons, and the twists and turns are totally unpredictable.

Stream It Here

See the original post on Youtube

The Shannara Chronicles (2016 - 2017)

An adaptation of the fantasy novels by Terry Brooks, the series follows a trio as they encounter adventures and war while trying to protect an ancient tree that is the boundary between their world and the world of evil demons. The show also stars a pre-Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and Elvis Austin Butler.

Stream It Here

See the original post on Youtube

Merlin (2008 - 2012)

As you can tell by the name, this pick is loosely based on the legends of Merlin and King Arthur. A young Merlin is sent to Camelot to protect Prince Arthur with his magical gifts, but he has to hide his powers because magic is banned in Camelot. The British series follows how their bond evolves over time.

Stream It Here

See the original post on Youtube

Ragnarok (2020 - 2023)

With three six-episode seasons, you can binge this one in one weekend. The Norwegian fantasy drama follows Magne, a teenage boy that learns hes a reincarnation of Thor, as he fights against a family of supernatural beings that are hiding their true forms as they pollute the environment. Other Norwegian gods show up as the series progresses.

Stream It Here

See the original post on Youtube

A Discovery of Witches (2018 - 2022)

Based on the All Souls trilogy by Deborah Harkness, historian and witch Diana Bishop discovers a manuscript called the Ashmole 782. The manuscript is believed to contain the story of the origin of supernatural species like witches, vampires, and daemons, and geneticist and vampire Matthew Clairmont helps her decode the scripteven though witches and vampires dont usually form alliances.

Stream It Here

See the original post on Youtube

You Might Also Like
Elon Musk left South Africa in 1989 with $4,000 from his parents, per Walter Isaacson 's biography.

Musk initially stayed in a youth hostel, sharing a room with 5 other people, per the book.

The biography debunks suggestions that he left his homeland with "pockets filled with emeralds".

Elon Musk had just $4,000 to his name when he left South Africa at the age of 17 and moved to Canada to study, according to Walter Isaacson's biography.

His father, Errol Musk, "gave him $2,000 in traveler's checks" and his mother, Maye Musk , handed him $2,000. His mother was born in Canada, which meant he was able to obtain a Canadian passport.

Isaacson writes in the biography, released this week, that when Musk arrived, he shared a room with five other people at a youth hostel.

In 2018, Musk tweeted that he "arrived in North America at 17 w $2000, a backpack & a suitcase full of books." He also claimed he'd paid his own way through college and dropped out of Stanford University with "$110k in college debt."

The revelation follows speculation recounted in the book that he departed with "pockets filled with emeralds" from a mine that his father supposedly owned. However, the biography also confirmed that Errol Musk did not actually own a mine.

Isaacson said Errol Musk had swapped a light plane he owned for some emeralds.

Errol Musk told Insider in an email: "I exchanged the Cessna 421 Golden Eagle for a share in the mine in 1985. As initial payment I received 108 quality cut emeralds. Thereafter I received rough emeralds."

He added that "the mine was registered," but that "no government office had paper, let alone a pencil" during the 1980s in Zambia.

Errol Musk also claimed that the emerald business collapsed in 1990 when Russia bought lab-grown artificial emeralds, which sent prices dropping by 90%.

"The emerald business helped us through a very difficult time in South Africa, when the white government collapsed and black government took over," he said. "All development collapsed with the white government. As a property developer that affected me a lot."

Elon Musk didn't respond to a request for comment from Insider.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Restored to its former art deco glory in 2020, Wolfhouse is a cultural center that doubles as a vacation home.

Courtesy of Wolfhouse

One of the greatest joys of the fall season is a weekend getaway in upstate New York, hopscotching through all the delightful towns and villages on both sides of the Hudson River draped in autumnal colors. Theres no better way to let it really sink in than by finding a stunning place to stay that perfectly complements the foliage, like Wolfhouse in Newburgh, New York.

The mid-century modern four-bedroom, three-bathroom home sits on the west bank of the Hudson River. It features glass walls on one side of the house, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape  a valuable design element to enjoy the fall colors.

The home was built by American architect Philip Johnson, who was once the head of the Museum of Modern Arts architecture department. He created it in 1949, the same year he built his most famous work: The Glass House in New Canaan, Connecticut, which is protected by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. But instead of just touring it, guests can stay overnight in this countryside haven.



Courtesy of Wolfhouse

Courtesy of Wolfhouse

In 2020, Jeremy Parker and Jiminie Ha bought the historic property, carefully renovating it back to its original glory, by following floorplans they found at Columbia Universitys architecture library, they told Time Out New York. And they did so with mindful measures at every step of the way.



Its our responsibility as designers to lead with smart sustainability at the forefront of our practice, not creating more waste, but working with what we already have, Ha told the publication.

Instead of simply thinking of the space as a home, they gave Wolfhouse  named after Benjamin V. Wolf, who originally commissioned the home  multiple purposes. At the forefront, the home is available as a vacation rental, sleeping up to eight guests, with top-notch amenities from high-speed internet to an outdoor dining area. But they also see it as a BIPOC-driven incubator for forward-thinking art and design, a virtual and physical exhibition space, as well as a living showroom concept featuring custom furniture and design objects, they said on their site.

Courtesy of Wolfhouse

Courtesy of Wolfhouse

Located in a region with a rich history of architecture and design, Wolfhouse is introducing creative programs that build on this legacy while supporting diversity and inclusivity, the site also said, adding that they are committed to elevating the pioneering voices that shape culture today.

A major part of the magic is in its location. While Newburgh has a bit of a complicated past, its a city on an upward trajectory. It was once George Washingtons Continental Armys headquarters during the Revolutionary War  in fact, you can visit Washingtons Headquarters in town  its also home to an 85,000-square-foot Motorcyclepedia Museum with more than 650 bikes, Safe Harbors Ann Street Gallery showcasing contemporary art, and Newburgh Vintage Emporium with antiques and collectibles.

The city of about 28,500 is also part of a vibrant Hudson Valley creative arts community, combined with Beacon, just across the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge. Traversing the river to the east side, youll find Dia Beacon, a museum of multimedia art from the 1960s to the present day displayed instead of a former Nabisco box printing factory. Other signs of the cultural scene are at the Hudson Beach Glass, Beacon Artist Union Gallery, and Marion Royael Gallery.

Also in the Hudson Valley vicinity of Wolfhouse is the outdoor sculpture park Storm King Art Center and the local favorite hiking spot Bear Mountain State Park.

To learn more or to book your stay, visit wolfhouseny.com.



For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure.


Two new studies out of Canada and Sweden suggest that patients operated on by female surgeons are less likely to face future complications or require follow-up care than those treated by male surgeons.



The cohort study, published in JAMA Surgery, examined over one million records from two different medical registries of adult patients who underwent one in 25 common elective or emergency surgeries between 2007 and 2019.

More from SheKnows

Behind the research



The first study looked at patients in Ontario, Canada and found a total of 151,054 patients were treated by a female surgeon and 1,014,657 were treated by a male surgeon. Patients treated by male surgeons were 2.4 percent more likely to die within one year of surgery compared to 1.6 percent percent of patients who were operated on by a female surgeon.



The research also found that 90-days post operation,13.9 percent of patients operated on by a male surgeon experienced either re-admission to the hospital, post-operative complications or adverse postoperative outcomes that included death. However, only 12.5 percent percent of patients treated by a female surgeon experienced similar outcomes.

Click here to read the full article.



Most research in surgery looks at short-term outcomes, Christopher Wallis, MD, PhD, and co-author of the study told MedPageToday. However, his team wanted to get a better understanding of the longer recovery trajectories.



Our goal is not to blame, Dr. Wallis told MedPage Today. Our goal is to really understand surgical care delivery, so that we can improve care for all patients who are treated by all physicians. The first obvious statement to make is that we cant just switch and have all surgery performed in the U.S. or Canada tomorrow be done by female surgeons. We just dont have the workforce to do that. And so the real question is why?

Why women surgeons have better patient outcomes



The differences in outcomes are not inherent to a physicians gender, but rather connected to how they practice, says Dr. Wallis.

The second study examined 150,000 patients in Sweden who underwent surgery to remove their gallbladder, also known as a cholecystectomy. The study was composed of 849 female surgeons and 1,704 male surgeons, and found that patients who were operated on by female surgeons experienced fewer surgical complications while also having significantly longer operation times, than their male counterparts.



The study concluded that female surgeons operated at a slower rate than male surgeons. This was because they were less likely to switch from laparoscopic or the means of making small incisions with the aid of a camera to open surgery, which is a much more invasive approach.



My Blohm, MD of Stockholms Karolinska Institute, who co-authored the Sweden study, wrote in the report that the findings suggest that surgical technique and risk-taking behaviors might explain some of the differences observed in surgical outcomes.



In some countries, there is a general belief that male surgeons are superior to female surgeons, Dr. Blohm wrote in JAMA Surgery. Interestingly, most previously published studies indicate that female surgeons are at least as good as male surgeons, or as in this case even slightly better.



But the study also noted that there are various explanations for gender disparities in medicine.



Previous studies have reported that female physicians adhere to guidelines more closely, use more patient-centered communication, are more willing to collaborate, and are more careful in selecting patients for their planned surgery. While the authors of this study noted that their findings suggest that female surgeons may perform safer operations and operate more slowly, they indicated that this caution might be a favorable quality. However, it is important to highlight that competitive and risk-taking behaviors were also seen among female surgeons.



As for all observational studies these results should be interpreted with some caution, Dr. Blohm wrote in JAMA. We have tried to identify and include factors in our analysis that may confound the results, but there can still be unidentified factors. We hope that our study can contribute to an increased understanding of gender differences and promote gender equity within the surgical specialty.

How to have a safer surgery



If youre scheduled for surgery, here are steps you can take to ensure you have the best possible outcome, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regardless of the gender of your doctor.



Communicate with your provider. Before your surgery, let your doctor know if you have any preexisting health conditions, such as diabetes, that may affect your recovery.

Quit smoking. In addition to many other health benefits, stopping smoking can lower your risk of an infection after surgery.



Follow all pre-op instructions. Be sure to follow your doctors recommendations before surgery, whether its to avoid eating or washing with a certain type of soap.



Wash your hands. After surgery, make sure to wash your hands before caring for the site of your surgical incision, and be sure that any health care providers caring for you do as well.



If you notice any signs of infection after surgery, reach out to your health care provider right away.

Best of SheKnows

Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter.

For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
This weeks breaking health news includes a look at the large share of Americans who know personally someone who struggles with addiction and what they think can be done.

And have you ever thought about seeing your dentist through telemedicine? Thousands or more Americans started to do that during the pandemic, when an in-person visit was too challenging.

Finally, researchers believe they may have figured out what kind of inflammation is more likely to raise the risk of dementia.

Helping others overcome addiction

More than 1 in 3 adults say they know someone who struggles with an addiction, according to a poll by the American Psychiatric Association. And theyd like to help  and feel qualified to do so.

The recent survey found that 7 in 10 American adults know how to help someone struggling with addiction. More than half said theyd turn to a doctor to provide that assistance.

Thats according to the associations new Healthy Minds Monthly poll that shows respondents are more than happy to start a conversation about addiction.

Its promising  that Americans show such openness to talking with loved ones who may have substance use disorders or behavioral addictions, Dr. Petros Levounis, president of the association, said in a news release.

The survey was taken online by Morning Consult from August 12 to 13 and included responses from 2,201 adults, its margin of error plus or minus 2 percentage points. In the poll, addiction included psychological or physical dependence on either alcohol or drugs and noted it could also refer to behavior disorders, including problem sexual, internet or gambling activities.

The survey found that adults ages 18 to 34 were twice as likely as adults 65 or older to say they know someone battling an addiction (44% vs. 22%).

Most had ideas about how to help someone, though the ideas varied and ranged from seeking inpatient treatment to Alcoholics Anonymous. Just 7% said they did not think recovery from a mental illness or addiction is possible.

Does infection raise risk of dementia?

Dementia is among the most feared health crises. A new study in JAMA Network Open says that inflammation from infection may be responsible for an increased risk of neurocognitive decline. While inflammation has been suspected in the past, the new research homes in on the type of infection.

Related

The study, led by Janet Janbek, of Copenhagen University HospitalRigshospitalet, and her and colleagues looked at a massive amount of data collected over 40 years from 1978 to 2018 and included almost 1.5 million adults from Danish national population registries. None of them had been diagnosed with dementia at the beginning of the study, which found a nearly 1.5-fold increase in risk among those who had inflammation from infection, while a link to inflammation from autoimmune diseases was less clear.

The individuals were born from 1928 to 1953, were alive and living in Denmark on Jan. 1, 1978, and were included in the study upon their 65th birthday. None of the individuals had a record of diagnosed dementia upon enrollment.

According to a Psychiatric News Alert from the American Psychiatric Association, Over the study period, dementia occurred about 1.5 times as often in people who had infections than in people without infections. Furthermore, the more infections people had, the higher the rate of dementia. In contrast, dementia occurred in people who had autoimmune diseases at about the same rate (1.04 times) as people without autoimmune diseases; being diagnosed with multiple autoimmune diseases did not appear to increase the rate of dementia.

The researchers couldnt explain the mechanism or reach conclusions about the role of inflammation based on their work, but they say it could point toward a role for infection-specific processes, rather than generic systemic inflammation.

Can teledentistry make care more available?

Telemedicine has made big inroads for mental health consultations and general medicine especially since COVID made in-person consultations harder and more risky. But whats the role of telemedicine consultations online for dentistry?

The University of Albanys Center for Health Workforce Studies in its School of Public Health found that the pandemic also prompted a dramatic increase in teledentistry. And the role online consultations play is not likely to diminish in the future, the researchers say.

A recent report by the center found that teledentistry is effective for triage, consultation, diagnosis, referral, follow-up and health education, covering aspects of dentistry that dont require in-person care.

But state regulations may present barriers, the report said. In background material, the university reported that state-level variability in teledentistry regulation often limits the ability of safety-net clinicians to provide virtual oral health care. The barriers include the inability to get Medicaid reimbursement to treat low-income patients in a way that may be more accessible than having to take time off work or arrange transportation to appointments, for instance. The study said just 14 states paid for Medicaid patients to use teledentistry after the COVID-19 public health emergency expired in May.

Other barriers include restrictions that say only dentists can provide teledentistry services. The report notes that some services could be provided by dental hygienists.
Shoppers browse stalls at the Farmers' Market on Broadway on July 12 in Green Bay.

GREEN BAY - Summer is drawing to a close, but does that mean farmers markets in the Green Bay area are ending soon, too?

Luckily for fans of fresh produce and homemade goods, there still are some farmers market options available in the area, with some running well past the start of fall and deep into October. It's time to start making plans for some butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, among other late season produce!

Here is a rundown of five farmers markets that are still ongoing in the Green Bay area, including each market's hours, location and their planned final date for 2023:

Farmers Market on Broadway

Location: Broadway Street, downtown between West Walnut and Dousman streets

Final market date: Wednesday, Sept. 27

Market hours: 3-7 p.m.

What you can expect: The market, which is one of the largest in Wisconsin, according to downtowngreenbay.com, features more than 110 local vendors.Visitors to the market, held each Wednesday from May 24 to Sept. 27, can find fresh produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses, flowers & plants, handcrafted goods and more.

Downtown De Pere Farmers Market

Location: George Street Plaza in De Pere

Final market date: Thursday, Sept. 28

Market hours: 3-7 p.m. on Thursdays

What you can expect: Visitors to the market will find river views and local growers and makers, according to definitelydepere.org. Dogs are welcome and must be leashed, but visitors with dogs are asked to please be mindful of their dogs' behavior and interactions with other people at the farmers market. The market also features weekly music performances, with Nick Gonnering set for Sept. 14 and 7000apart on the schedule for Sept. 21.

Shoppers look at Lindsay Roake's booth on June 22 at the farmers market in downtown De Pere.

Festival Foods Suamico Farmers Market

Location: 2348 Lineville Road, Suamico, in the Festival Foods parking lot

Final market date: Oct. 15

Market hours: 7 a.m.-noon

What you can expect: This farmers market is hosted in the Festival Foods parking lot in Suamico. Festival Foods has a full list of its locations across Wisconsin that host farmers markets.

Market on Military

Location: In the Green Bay Plaza at the corner of West Mason Street and South Military Avenue

Final market date: Thursday, Oct. 26

Market hours: 2-7 p.m., or dusk in the fall

What you can expect: Visitors to the market can find a variety of season produce, preserved foods, bakery items, plants and more, according to the market's page on Facebook.

Saturday Farmers Market - Downtown Green Bay

Location: South Washington and Doty streets in downtown Green Bay

Final market date: Saturday, Oct. 28

Market hours: 7 a.m. to noon

What you can expect: Beyond the usual farmers market fare, the Saturday Farmers Market also offers special Family Days events. The next two Family Days will be: Sept. 23, which will feature recipes for Hispanic National Heritage Month and kids activities in partnership with UW-Madison Division of Extension Brown County; and Oct. 28, with Davister's horse-drawn carriage rides and trick-or-treating with costumes. Visit the market's website for more information.

Is your farmers market still running, but don't see it listed here? You can send details about your market's location, hours and final date for the season to Tim Langton at tlangton@gannett.com, and we will update this story with your information.

This article originally appeared on Wausau Daily Herald: Which Green Bay farmers markets are still running for the 2023 season?
Visit The Weather Network's hurricane hub to keep up with the latest on tropical developments in Canada and around the world

A large swath of the Maritimes are under hurricane and tropical storm watches on Thursday as large Hurricane Lee steadily makes its way north over the western Atlantic. Warnings are likely by Thursday evening or Friday.

On its forecast track, the centre of Lee will pass west of Bermuda on Thursday, approach New England and Atlantic Canada on Friday and Saturday, and move across Atlantic Canada on Saturday night into Sunday.

As expected, Lee is expanding in size but has started to weaken as it pushes through cooler waters. While further weakening is expected, Lee is likely to remain a "large and dangerous hurricane into the weekend," says the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC).

Baron - Lee alerts - Sept14.jpg

SAFETY: Monitor all tropical storm and hurricane watches on Environment Canada and Climate Change's Alerts page

The footprint of Hurricane Lees tropical storm-force winds extended a whopping 500 km from the centre of the storm by Thursday afternoon, and its hurricane-force winds reached 150 km from the centre of the storm.

Hurricane watches in effect, with the Maritimes on high alert

The hurricane weakened to a Category 1 hurricane on Thursday afternoon, per the NHC's 2:00 p.m. EDT update, with maximum sustained winds of 140 km/h. It will continue to lose strength further as it tracks north towards Atlantic Canada.

Despite Lees maximum winds falling, the storms sprawling footprint is important for any communities in its path. Lower maximum winds does not mean a lower overall threat from this storm.

A threat for heavy rains, high winds, and coastal flooding will extend hundreds of kilometres from the centre of the storm. The biggest concerns will be dangerous surf and coastal flooding, especially during high tide.

Baron - Lee impact timing - Sept14.jpg

A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Grand Manan and Coastal Charlotte County in New Brunswick and Digby, Yarmouth, Shelburne, and Queens Counties in Nova Scotia.

A Tropical Storm Watch is is effect for Saint John County, Fundy National Park, and Moncton and Southeast New Brunswick, as well as Annapolis, Kings, Lunenburg, and Hants Counties, Halifax Metro and Halifax County West, Cumberland County - Minas Shore, and Colchester County - Cobequid Bay in Nova Scotia.

Click here to stay up-to-date with the latest watches and warnings.

WATCH: Storm anxiety high among Nova Scotians after a harsh year

Click here to view the video

Strongest impacts expected Saturday

The Canadian Hurricane Centre (CHC) says this will be a Saturday event for the strongest impacts, with lingering weaker conditions expected on Sunday across the Maritimes.

The CHC expects Lee's circulation to broaden significantly as it moves north across the East Coast. On Saturday, Lee is expected to gradually weaken just below hurricane strength as it approaches the Gulf of Maine later in the day.

"While the centre of Lee could make landfall anywhere from Downeast Maine to western Nova Scotia as a strong tropical storm or post-tropical low late Saturday night or early Sunday, it is still expected to be a large and powerful system with impacts extending well away from the storm centre," the CHC warns.

Baron - Lee rain - Sept14.jpg

Saturday morning, the outer rain bands will move in, with tropical wind gusts extending hundreds of kilometres away from the eye of the storm.

Between 60-100 mm of rain is possible in the southern Maritimes over the weekend. Localized flooding is likely, especially since the ground will be near saturation before the storm begins as tropical moisture fills in.

WATCH: Hurricane Lee prep is underway for Maritimes residents

Click here to view the video

At the same time, winds will pick up late Friday and will peak on Saturday, with gusts of 70-100 km/h expected. Winds will ease for Sunday, but will still be gusty. The strongest winds can be expected along coastal sections while quickly decreasing inland. Areas under the hurricane watch will likely see the strongest winds, with gusts as high as 120 km/h possible at times.

The greatest threats are the waves and surge immediately along the coast. Waves of upwards to 6-7 metres are possible out to sea. The greatest impacts will be the southwest shores of Nova Scotia and the Bay of Fundy shores.

Baron - Lee winds - Sept14.jpg

Folks across the region are understandably weary about tropical systems after the impacts of Dorian in 2019 and Fiona in 2022.

Its likely that Hurricane Lee will not be as strong as either of those two systems. However, residents do need to stay on high alert for flooding, power outages, tree damage and coastal flooding.

Stay prepared

Were now in the climatological peak of hurricane season across the Atlantic basin. Anyone along or near the East Coast should prepare for hazards like power outages and flooding regardless of this one storms progress.

Ensure youve got non-perishable food, water, personal hygiene supplies, flashlights, and batteries to last for several days without electricity or water. Prepare an emergency plan in case of flooding or evacuations.

STAY SAFE: What you need in your hurricane preparedness kit

Anxiety is normal when theres a big storm out there, and even more so when the storms future is uncertain. Preparing for a storm long before one arrives ensures youll be ready to go if anything looms on the horizon in the weeks and months ahead.

Stay with The Weather Network for the duration of this storm as we closely monitor this hurricane and its developments.

WATCH: Why having a ham radio during hurricanes and storms could be crucial

Click here to view the video
This aerial photo taken on July 11, 2023 shows a view of a section of the Wujiang River in Zhucang Township of Weng'an County, southwest China's Guizhou Province. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

GUIYANG, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Lu Xiyong treasures a photograph capturing him holding a bamboo pole to push the ferry away from the shore.

The photo was taken in 2022. On that very day, he returned the boat he had worked on for 18 years to the government, bidding farewell to his days as a ferryman.

Lu, 60, lives in Fengyan, a small village next to Wujiang River in Weng'an County, located in southwest China's Guizhou Province.

Situated on the eastern side of Wumeng Mountain, Wujiang River is considered the mother river of Guizhou. The flowing river water has nourished neighboring villages while also hindering the travel of villagers. During the days of poor road infrastructure, ferries served as a primary mode of transportation for locals.

However, with the expansion of rural road networks in the mountainous areas, ferries have gradually faded into history.

Shuangchi Ferry Dock, where Lu used to work, had a history of up to a century.

"Villagers turned to ferries when visiting relatives or going to market fairs. It was normal to ferry more than a dozen times a day," Lu recalled. "But the road conditions alongside the river were poor. It took up to an hour for villagers to trek to the dock."

Lu said he cannot recall precisely when the decline in ferry passengers began. After the road facilities improved, it's now only a 10-minute drive to the dock.

"More roads mean less demand for ferries," he said, adding that less cargo was delivered by ferries.

In addition to farming, Lu now volunteers to collect garbage from the river water.

Lu Xiyong (R) and Ran Maoying, Lu's wife, clean up floating garbage on the Wujiang River in Zhucang Township of Weng'an County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, July 11, 2023. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

Huang Jiangkai, deputy head of the county's transport bureau, said the county has formed a road network of six expressways and more than 1,500 km of rural roads.

"Ferries have been replaced by roads," said Huang, adding that the number of ferry docks in the county's four townships along the river has declined from 11 to one since 2022.

In Yuqing County, Maluo Ferry Dock is one of the only four ferry docks that are still in operation, while the other 23 have all closed.

Shang Kongli and his wife are the third generation of his family engaged in the ferry business.

Shang said that their business was running well when they took over from their uncle in 2011, with dozens of passengers crossing the river daily during peak periods.

In 2015, when an expressway became operational, cutting the travel time from their village to the other side of the river to half, the number of villagers using the ferry dwindled significantly.

To make a living, Shang decided to leave the ferry boat to his wife and he went to the provincial capital Guiyang to find a job. Song Meimai, Shang's wife, was engaged in orange farming to earn extra income.

According to Song, while enhanced transportation options have impacted the ferry business, they have also been compensated for their losses in another way.

This aerial photo taken on March 30, 2023 shows the Wujiang grand bridge, a main project on the expressway linking Dejiang and Yuqing, in southwest China's Guizhou Province. (Xinhua/Tao Liang)

"In the past, I had to carry oranges, pigs and other agricultural products down the mountain for sale. Now, the buyers can directly drive to our doorstep, saving much time and making the sale much easier," said Song, 33.

Gao Zhan, a transportation official in the county, said that over 2,000 km of rural roads have been built in the county, and every township is accessible via an expressway within a 20-minute drive.

"Wujiang River is no longer an obstacle for transportation. Ferries have gradually become history," said Gao.

China, with a vast rural area, has built or upgraded 1.25 million km of rural roads over the past five years. All townships and villages where conditions permit are now connected by paved roads and linked to bus networks, according to the government work report released earlier this year. 
It may have felt like an eternity (ok, so just over a year) but the final movie in the After series, After Everything, was finally released in the UK yesterday, landing on Prime Video on the 3rd October. But is Tessa, aka Josephine Langsford, in After Everything?



After landing in US cinemas in September, the film series follows the love story between Tessa Young (Josephine Langford) and Hardin Scott (Hero Fiennes Tiffin), who meet in their first year of college, and go on many ups and downs in their relationship.

However, following the film's release, there's been some confusion amongst fans on social media as to whether or not main cast member Josephine Langford, who plays Tessa Young, featured in the film.

Many took to Twitter and Instagram to ask if the character of Tessa would be making an appearance, with one asking: "Why are peopling saying Josephine wont be in it?" and another said: "Just an FYI but this movie isn't a Hessa film!"

After Everything appears to mainly focus on Hardin's journey with Hardin travelling to Portugal to make amends with a former flame Natalie (Mimi Keene).

Rodin Eckenroth / Stringer - Getty Images

So is Josephine Langford in After Everything? Here's what you need to know.

Is Josephine Langford in After Everything?

In short yes, Josephine Langford does appear in After Everything, however she does not appear in the majority of the film.

Fans were worried Josephine may not be appear in the new film at all, as the trailer mainly focusses on Hardin's story of travelling to Portugal to make amends with a former flame, Natalie. The trailer also only showed clips of Tessa from the previous four movies.

There was also confusion amongst fans as the fourth film After Every Happy was originally said to be the last movie in the series, however in August 2022, shortly before the release of After Every Happy it was announced a fifth and final film was in production After Everything.

The film was written by the film's director Castille Landon, and would be the first of the series films to not be based on Anna Todd's novels of the same name, which served as original inspiration for the films, and so fans were unsure what role Tessa would have in the new film.

But the good news is Josephine is listed on IMDb as featuring in the film and does appear in the last 15 minutes of the movie, but sadly is just not a lead like before. But still, we can all breathe a sigh of relief.

WATCH NOW After Everything is now streaming on Prime Video

Cosmopolitan UK has reached out to Prime Video for comment

You Might Also Like
A comprehensive guide to help you flow safely during pregnancy

Getty Images

Pregnancy is undoubtedly a stressful time for a pregnant person's body and mind. From difficulty sleeping to body aches and anxious feelings, navigating the mental and physical toll of growing a new life can be particularly taxing. For this reason, you need a way to lift some of this burden: prenatal yoga may be just the answer.

Not only does prenatal yoga offer a gentler approach to fitness during pregnancy but it is also tailored to the needs and concerns of pregnant people. Plus, it gives you an alternative form of exerciseespecially if your go-to workout isn't the safest (or most comfortable) during pregnancy.

Below, experts explain the ins and outs of prenatal yoga. You will find information on the benefits of prenatal yoga, how to do it safely, and ways it can help throughout pregnancy.

What is Prenatal Yoga?

Simply put, prenatal yoga is a form of yoga designed specifically to benefit people who are pregnant, says Monte Swarup, MD, FACOG, board-certified OB/GYN in Chandler, Arizona. "It was started in India and has been used there for centuries to prepare for pregnancy and childbirth."

During a prenatal yoga class, you can expect to utilize gentle movement and mindful breathing to develop strength, flexibility, balance, and mindfulness, explains Amelia Groves, master yoga trainer at YogaSix. Prenatal yoga also helps students adapt to pregnancy changes in the body through reflection and exercise. It also prepares the body for labor by focusing on increasing strength, building endurance, engaging the mind, and breathing deeply.

"Students are encouraged to connect with their breath and practice deep breathing techniques to relax consciously to prepare their bodies for the demands of labor and childbirth," says Groves.

Benefits of Prenatal Yoga

Prenatal yoga has been linked with numerous benefits for pregnant people, many of which have been studied and confirmed, says Amy Goh, CNM, a certified nurse midwife and registered yoga teacher at Ovia Health by Labcorp.

"Randomized control trials have demonstrated that prenatal yoga is safe in pregnancy and may decrease anxiety, stress, depression, and discomforts," she says. "Smaller studies have even demonstrated that pregnant people who took part in a prenatal yoga intervention had shorter lengths of labor and increased odds of vaginal birth compared to pregnant people that did not practice yoga."

Prenatal yoga also can address sleep issues, which are a common occurrence among pregnant people. In her practice, Groves says she has noticed that her prenatal yoga students sleep better when practicing regularly. "Many students also experience reduced stress, anxiety, and fear after beginning this practice," she says.

One common complaint during pregnancy is back pain. Prenatal yoga can be an excellent way to mitigate and reduce back pain, as well as other discomforts.

Related: The Best Pregnancy Workouts for At-Home Classes

Safety Guidelines for Prenatal Yoga

If you are considering adding prenatal yoga to your exercise routine, it is important to consult your OB-GYN first to ensure the practice is right for your individual situation, says Elma Panagaki, certified prenatal yoga instructor at Bay Club El Segundo. "Once approved, during your practice, remember to listen to your body and take breaks if you need them, drink plenty of water, and do not be afraid to speak up and ask for a variation if something doesnt feel right or comfortable."

Panagaki also recommends using traditional props, like yoga blocks, straps, and bolsters, to make the practice even more comfortable. It's important to maintain a stable base during prenatal yoga.

At 20 weeks pregnant or greater, Swarup urges prenatal yoga practitioners to avoid positions that require them to spend time lying on their backs. Additionally, it is important to remember that balance becomes an issue in pregnancy and the risk of falls increases.

When practicing prenatal yoga, Goh recommends avoiding postures that move the abdomen into the body, such as a closed twist, and avoiding twisting the abdomen in general. "Twists in yoga may also compress the inferior vena cava (IVC), the largest vein that supplies blood to the heart," explains Goh. You also will want to avoid any position that requires you to lay on your belly after the first trimester.

Recommended Yoga Poses for Pregnancy

If you plan to practice prenatal yoga, most experts urge you to start early in the pregnancy to get familiar with the positions. A few poses that Panagaki recommends for her prenatal yoga clients include:

Cat-cow: This is a great pose to help increase blood flow, reduce back pain, and take the pressure off your growing baby bump.

Butterfly pose (Baddha Konasana): This pose is one of the best poses to practice because it relaxes your inner thighs and increases hip flexibility.

Childs pose (Balasana): This pose helps reduce back pain and tension and gives you time to focus on yourself and relax your mind.

Goddess pose (Utkata Konasana): This pose strengthens the pelvic floor muscles and opens the hips.

Pigeon (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana) or recline pigeon (Supta Kapotasana): These poses help stretch the glutes and help with sciatica and back pain.

Breathing Techniques in Prenatal Yoga

Nadi shodhana, also known as "sweet breath," is a prenatal yoga breathing technique often recommended during pregnancy, explains Briohny Smyth, certified yoga instructor at Alo Moves. "It's a great starting point for beginners if you've been wanting to add more conscious breath to your day or your yoga practice. It's very easy to follow, and it calms and rejuvenates the nervous system."

This technique involves putting your right hand in front of your face and resting your middle and pointer fingers between your brows. Close your eyes, take a deep breath through your nose, and back out through your nose. Using your thumb, hold your right nostril, and inhale several breaths through the left nostril. Repeat these steps on the other side. Do this exercise for five to 10 cycles for the best results.

"Another breathing technique you can practice is bhramari, also known as "bee breath," which can help soothe your nerves, stimulate your pineal and pituitary glands, and lower your blood pressure," says Smyth. To perform this, gently close your lips, part your teeth, and bring the tip of your tongue behind your front teeth. Hold your ears closed with your thumbs, and place your fingers across your eyes so the tips meet at your nose. Take a long, deep breath through your nose, filling your stomach. Drop your chin to your chest and exhale slowly, humming with your tongue as you exhale. Repeat this process seven or so times for the best results.

Related: This Simple Breathing Technique Could Help Fend Off Illness and Ease Stress







The Importance of Relaxation in Pregnancy

When you have a lot on your mind, the last thing you think would help is to sit quietly and try to clear it. But if you can master the art of meditation, it can have very impactful mental health benefits during pregnancy.

"Find a comfortable position in a quiet space, close your eyes, and pick a word with a positive meaning like love, joy, or happiness," says Paganaki. "Visualize that word in front of you, and with every breath, bring one letter at a time inside you and fill your body with positivity like a warm light."







How to Incorporate Prenatal Yoga Into Your Routine

Sometimes, the hardest part of practicing yoga is unrolling the yoga mat to get started. If you want to practice prenatal yoga but are short on motivation or energy, Goh recommends keeping that mat unrolled and finding moments in your day to practice in short intervals.

"Whether you are caring for a child, working at a desk, or standing all day, there will be moments where you need to take a break," she says. "You can do a modified downward dog at the wall, your desk, or the playground. Stretch your arms up and take five breaths while seated, then take an open twist and another five breaths."

Paganaki recommends finding your favorite poses, and then incorporating them throughout the day. "Find a quiet place, pick a mat that you like, put on some relaxing music, and use some lavender oil. After a few weeks, you will realize how much it helps and how amazing you will feel, and your practice over time will encourage you to do it even more."

If yoga isn't your thing, but you still want to stay active, other pregnancy-safe exercise options can provide similar benefits, says Goh. "Walking and swimming are wonderful ways to both move your body and help calm the mind."

And, if you're finding it difficult to sit still and meditate, try taking the meditation along with you, she adds. "Meditation can be performed while participating in both of these activities by focusing on the breath while engaging in these types of movement."

Related: How to Incorporate Prenatal Workouts Into Your Routine While Expecting

For more Shape news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Shape.


"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."



What are we most grateful for on Thanksgiving Day? The food to stuff our face with, the heirloom cookware we use, and the kitchen gadgets that make it all possible, of course. But is that all? Where are your manners? You've forgotten the host or chef who makes the feasting possible? If you are the considerate cook in your family who each year labors away in the kitchen for seven hours (or more) to prep for a delectable Thanksgiving dinner, we give you our sincerest salute. You are the greatest gift of all. But may we suggest you take a break from cooking this year and consider Thanksgiving meal delivery?

Were not saying you shouldn't cook! You're an amazing cook, and it's a holiday all about appreciation, after all. But don't lie, this year you'd love a simpler grocery list and a lighter load on Thanksgiving day. And it's all possible because these great food delivery services can bring an entire pre-made feastor just the bird, or just the sidesstraight to your door. From cornbread to pumpkin pie to turkey, it's everything minus the headache, giving you extra time to be in the great company of family or friends, or Thanksgiving movies and shows.

Just think about it. And preview your Thanksgiving nourishment with these 16 meal delivery options below. Why not relax a little and indulge in a Thanksgiving spread that is only a click away? You might need to get creative with the oven space, but honestly, it's a lot easier to just pop the meals in and then dig in. One more thing to be thankful for.

Williams Sonoma

The Thanksgiving icon is truly Williams Sonoma. While we love the orange cranberry sauce and cornbread mix, there's so much more potential to be unlocked. For the whole shebangturkey, stuffing, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pieorder from Williams Sonoma. Its turkeys are free-range.

Order From $79.95, willams-sonoma.com

Harry & David

Harry & David is so much more than its famous Moose Munch. This feast includes a whole turkey or ham, traditional sides like apple sausage stuffing and creamy Brussels sprouts, finishing touches of cranberry sauce and gravy, and a pumpkin cheesecake for dessert.

Order From $44.99, harryanddavid.com

Goldbelly

Can't make it down South for some your sides? No worries, Goldbelly has 'em. Can't make a pitstop in the heart of Pennsylvania's farm country to pick up a pie? Goldbelly sells it. Can't run up to the Cape for a side of lobster mac and cheese? Yep, Goldbelly. And from deep fried turkeys in Dallas to turduckens in New Orleans, there is a feast of options from all over the country.

Order From $59.00, goldbelly.com

Willie Bird Turkeys

These free-range turkeys from Willie Bird Farm come in a range of options. Choose one that's organic or not, pre-brined or bare, smoked, pre-roasted, or uncooked.

Order From $79.95, williams-sonoma.com

Burgers' Smokehouse

You cant go wrong with this top-rated turkey. It comes pre-cooked, so all you have to do is thaw, unwrap, and heat up. If youre handling the full meal, dont sweat it. You can order sides like sweet potato casserole and desserts like Southern pecan pie from the smokehouse as well.

Order From $79.99, smokehouse.com

Omaha Steaks

Omaha Steaks understands the importance of poultry on Thanksgiving, giving a few turkey options to choose from, but you can also opt for a ham or prime roast dinner. Accompaniments include roasted garlic mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and pumpkin pie.

Order From $85, omahasteaks.com

The Honey Baked Ham Company

If your family prefers ham over turkey, the Honey Baked Ham Company has you covered. The premium pork, slowly roasted and topped with a sweet and crunchy glaze, is ready to go once its thawed and at room temperature, so you dont even have to heat it up. Not only does Honey Baked offer quarter, half, and whole sizes, it also has several side and dessert selections to round out the meal.

Order From $39.99, honeybaked.com

Whole Foods + Amazon Prime

A delivery story can't be complete without the reigning champs of mail order. Because yes, if you are a Prime member then you can get just about everything you need for Thanksgiving dropped smack on your doorstep. Spare the trip to Whole Foods and instead get all of the ingredients you might need, including a turkey, to your house. Sorry, you still have to do all the prep and cook work, though.

Order Prices vary, primenow.amazon.com

Fresh Direct

Hate being overwhelmed with too many options? Relatable. Thankfully, Fresh Direct offers just enough choices for you to put together a Thanksgiving dinner, from pre-cooked sides to family-sized mac and cheese to turkey breast, that starts at only $10.99 a plate. And as the name suggests, the food is guaranteed to arrive quickly in fresh condition.

Order From $10.99, freshdirect.com

HelloFresh

If you know youll go crazy for a classic roast turkey or a crunchy peppercorn-crusted beef tenderloin on Thanksgiving, then let HelloFresh handle it for you. Youll also get some really luscious sides, like apple ginger crisp and Ciabatta stuffing, as well as cranberry brie crostini as dessert for a final touch.

Order From $18.99, hellofresh.com

Blue Apron

Leave it to Blue Apron to deliver your Thanksgiving feast. Aside from staples like butter roasted turkey or mashed potatoes, it also offers add-ons like truffle and parmesan knots or walnut breadcrumbs for the carb-addicted, and butternut squash and spinach risotto for your vegetarian guests.

Order From $7.99, blueapron.com

Pernini Ranch Steakhouse

How about we switch it up? Instead of another bird this year, let's take you out to West Texas (metaphorically of course) and enjoy some cowboy cookery. From their ranch in Buffalo Gap, Texas, Pernini Ranch express ships out fully cooked, perfect medium rare smoked tenderloins. And since the smoked tenderloin is actually better at room temperature, you don't even have to waste oven space on it. Just let it thaw, slice it, and serve.

Order $155.00, perniniranch.com

DoorDash

You might trust your local restaurants more, so stick to a food delivery service like DoorDash that gives vast flexibility for you to order from the best restaurants near you. Whichever city you live in, the options go beyond turkeys or hams or Brussels sprouts. You can even order and get meals delivered on Thanksgiving Day; just be sure the restaurants are not closed.

Order Prices vary, doordash.com

Instacart

Feeding a crowd of guests usually gets the host worrying over budget. So consider low-cost Thanksgiving meal options from grocery chains near you, like Costo, Target, Eataly, or Morton Williams. Better yet, Instacart allows you to browse all these stores online and order their variety of cooked fixings the same day or pre-scheduled. Be sure you check out the liquor stores as well for Thanksgiving booze.

Order Prices vary, instacart.com

Magic Kitchen

Build your own Thanksgiving dinner feast with Magic Kitchen and its array of selections. Or, try out its curated meals such as Italian Holiday Dinner, Tex-Mex Holiday Meal, and a pack of sides with no turkey for those who really like the process of stuffing and roasting the big bird on their own. Or skipping it altogether. It truly is magic.

Order From $24.99, magickitchen.com

GrubHub

GrubHub is here for you, and your stomach, with its annual Thanksgiving delivery. This years lineup hasn't been unveiled yet, but were pretty sure itll be just like a regular day on GrubHub. So if youre in the mood for something unconventional on Turkey Day, opt for a nearby Chinese restaurant or the national favorite Shake Shack. GrubHub even breaks down restaurants into different sections based on their cuisine, so you can get a Thanksgiving meal that is personalized to your tastes in 3, 2, 1.

Order Prices Vary, grubhub.com



Shop Now Get Expert Advice on What to Eat and Drink, Every Day esquire.com

You Might Also Like
Ever since announcing her engagement to Prince Harry, the world's eyes have been fixed on Meghan Markle  and her style. We'll be following the Meghan Markle Effect with our column, "Meghan Markle Wore a Thing."

As the Invictus Games enter their fifth day in Dusseldorf, Germany, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex sat courtside at the Ukraine-Nigeria Mixed Team sitting volleyball competition, and continued to offer plenty of style inspiration.

After meeting with NATO representatives this morning in a tan L'Agence silk Dani blouse and Gabriela Hearst trousers, Meghan Markle changed into a more casual, all-white outfit: a Ralph Lauren cable-knit sweater vest and Frame skinny ankle-cut jeans. (That antiquated "no white after Labor Day" rule simply doesn't apply to the Duchess.)

Photo: Jordan Pettitt/PA Images via Getty Images

Markle pulled her hair back into a loose pony and accessorized only with a few gold bracelets on her wrist. Paired with black flats (and carrying a striped sweater, just in case she catches a chill), she effortlessly exuded elegance in one of the biggest Spring 2024 runway trends we spotted at New York Fashion Week.

See some of our favorite looks from the Duchess of Sussex in the gallery below:

A white embellished shift dress by Valentino at the 2021 Global Citizen Live event. Photo: John Lamparski/Getty Images Photo: John Lamparski/Getty Images

View the 75 images of this gallery on the original article

Please note: Occasionally, we use affiliate links on our site. In no way does this affect our editorial decision-making.

Never miss the latest fashion industry news. Sign up for the Fashionista daily newsletter.
Pratt Institute will salute three alumni at its annual Legends event on Nov. 9.

Industrial designer Kenneth Cobonpue, architect Edward Mazria and the artist Kay WalkingStick will be honorees at the annual fundraiser gala at the Weylin in Brooklyn. With 80 percent of Pratt students dependent on financial aid, Legends 2023 supports the schools scholarship program by the same name.

More from WWD

Born in the Philippines, Cobonpue worked and studied in Italy and Germany before returning to his home country to work at his mother Bellas rattan furniture company. In 1998, he ventured out on his own and now employs 300 people and craftsmen on the island of Cebu. Cobonpue also runs offices and showrooms in Germany, Portugal, the Philippines and in the U.S. His portfolio includes work for Linneys jewelry store in Sydney, the Andaz in Tokyo, the Aloft rooftop bar in Abu Dhabi, Azura Boutique Retreat on Benguerra Island in Africa and the Trump Club in Panama City. The entrepreneur also started the industrial design program at the University of the Philippines.

With a career stretching 40-plus years, Mazria founded the nonprofit Architecture 2030 with sustainability and energy consumption being top-of-mind with every project. Two years ago the American Institute of Architects presented him with it gold medal for his unwavering voice and leadership in the fight against climate change. In May, he mapped out how renewable electricity, zero carbon standards and other incentives for new buildings and major renovations are expected to result in at least a 50 percent CO2 reduction for the building sector by 2030.

The Cherokee-Anglo artist WalkingStick has created work that reflects how the U.S. Cherokee population is now two million versus 20 million in 1492. She has had more than 30 solo shows to date. The New York Historical Society will unveil the six-month exhibition Kay WalkingStick/Hudson River School on Oct. 20. She will be honored by the museum with the its annual History Makers award the night before in New York.

As an emerita professor at Cornell University, she taught painting and drawing for 17 years and previously received honorary doctorates from Pratt Institute and Arcadia University. Kay WalkingStick once explained how she teaches in other ways too. Earlier this year told Museum of Modern Art curators, One of the reasons that I have done what Ive done is I wanted to make strong art that really spoke to people, but I wanted to educate people a little bit, too, about the Native people on the planet.

Best of WWD

Click here to read the full article.
Traditionally, August is the beginning of peak shipping season for retailers stocking up for the holidays, but that doesnt seem to be the case if you look at the cargo containers arriving at the massive Southern California port complex.

At the Port of Long Beach, the number of cargo containers arriving on the docks in August declined 15.4 percent from the same time last year while exports were down 23 percent. We anticipated a modest peak season as our cargo numbers continue to stabilize at pre-pandemic levels, said Port of Long Beach chief executive officer Mario Cordero.

More from WWD

Next door at the Port of Los Angeles, August cargo container import traffic inched up 7.3 percent, the first gain in 13 months. But the ports executive director, Gene Seroka, said some of that increase was helped by a new six-year labor contract recently approved between the 22,000 members of the International Longshore Workers Union and the Transpacific Maritime Association, which represents 70 shipping companies and terminal operators employing the workers.

Still, total cargo container traffic for the first eight months of this year at the Port of Los Angeles was down 21 percent compared to last year. During that same period, the Port of Long Beach saw its cargo container traffic slip 24 percent.

High inventory levels at local warehouses is one of the reasons imports are down in Southern California where there is 2 billion square feet of warehouses stretching 70 miles from the Pacific Ocean east to Riverside County. Warehouse inventories across the United States remain elevated. Thats evident from the federal governments inventory sales ratio, which remains at 1.40. That means we have 40 percent more inventory behind everything we sell, said Seroka, speaking Thursday at the ports monthly news conference. Experts would like to see this at about 10 percent.

Southern Californias warehouses have only a 4 percent vacancy rate, but could become more crammed with merchandise because consumer spending is up slightly over last year.

American consumers remain resilient and continue to spend, just not at the levels we saw during the pandemic, said Seroka, noting that U.S. Department of Commerce figures show retail sales in August up 0.6 percent over July.

Ever since the beginning of 2020, Southern Californias two ports have gone through a boom/bust cycle. When the COVID-19 pandemic curtailed imports because overseas factories shut down or limited their production, cargo container traffic coming from Asia dwindled to a crawl. Then when factories and businesses went back to work, there was a cargo surge with pent-up demand for merchandise. At one time there were so many ships crossing the Pacific Ocean that in early 2022 more than 100 vessels were anchored off the Southern California coast, waiting to dock.

Trade started to return to normal last summer, but the protracted labor negotiations between the longshore workers and their employers dragged on for more than a year until a settlement was reached in June and a contract approved in early September.

That labor dispute prompted many shippers to abandon Southern Californias ports and opt for East Coast and Gulf state ports. Now Southern California ports account for only 32 percent of all cargo container traffic coming into the U.S., down from 40 percent about a decade ago.

To recoup that business, executives at the two Southern California ports are crisscrossing the globe to visit shippers in Asia and retailers in the U.S., asking them to return to the West Coast. Our message is this, Seroka said. We are operating on all cylinders.

Best of WWD

Click here to read the full article.
A police dog named Yoda helped capture a convicted murderer in Pennsylvania. The 4-year-old Belgian Malinois was part of a tactical team that apprehended Danilo Cavalcante. According to CNN, the takedown ended an almost 2-week-long manhunt for the fugitive.

Police dog joins epic manhunt for Danilo Cavalcante

The ordeal began on Aug. 31, when Cavalcante escaped from Chester County Prison. The 34-year-old was serving time for killing his former girlfriend, Deborah Brandao. He was also allegedly involved in a 2017 homicide case in Brazil. Though residents spotted the convict several times over the ensuing two weeks, he eluded capture.

Finally, authorities narrowed in on Cavalcantes location in Chester County, Pennsylvania. The fugitive was sleeping on a rifle stolen from a local resident. Around 8 a.m. on Wednesday, approximately 20 law enforcement officers, plus several K-9s, descended on him. When law enforcement initially approached, Cavalcante fled through a wooded area. Officials noticed Cavalcantes head sticking out from the underbrush. Then, they released Yoda. The police dog bit and subdued the fugitive, according to CNN. With Yodas help, it only took five minutes to apprehend Cavalcante.

K-9 aids in murderers arrest

Yoda not only aided in catching Cavalcante; he also ensured officers werent hurt in the process. No shots were fired during the arrest. The police dog prevented Cavalcante from grabbing the stolen rifle, which was in the fugitives reach.

He was just essential as far as the tracking and searching, as were numerous other K-9s that were here, Robert Clark, supervisory deputy US Marshal for Pennsylvanias eastern district, told CNN about Yodas involvement. All these K-9 resources were utilized from different tactical teams from the area, and they were just incredible resources.

Clark explained that Yoda is a bite and hold police dog. That means he was trained to hold suspects down until a handler commands him to release the hold. In this case, Yoda bit Cavalcante on the scalp and the lower extremity area. These maneuvers helped keep Cavalcante down.

When the dog got to him, he then went flat with the dog on him  the dog was able to detain him there, Lt. Colonel George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police said in a news conference yesterday.

Though Cavalcante continued to resist, the fugitive was forcibly taken into custody by officers.

We certainly hope Yoda received some extra delicious treats for his heroic efforts!

The post Police Dog Named Yoda Captures Fugitive Danilo Cavalcante appeared first on DogTime.
Why drive to a Jamba or shell out Starbucks money for a blended beverage when you could pull a mini blender out of your bag and whip one up yourself? The convenience is tempting, but a new class action lawsuit alleges that BlendJet2, a portable blender made by the BlendJet brand, poses serious safety risks that may not be worth it, even for a fresh smoothie.

The complaint was filed in New York against BlendJet and alleges the company knowingly sold its portable, cordless, chargeable BlendJet2 blenders with a defect that causes the appliance to break or malfunction within a short period of time. The filing also alleges BlendJet misrepresents the capabilities of the product and uses inferior materials to manufacture it, which is the alleged reason for the defects.

Read more

The battery, which allegedly overheats and sometimes catches fire

The plaintiffs argue that BlendJet is aware of these issues, since numerous negative reviews have been posted and complaints have been made to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.



Back in June, Foodsided hailed the BlendJet2 as a must-have dorm room essential for college freshmen, touting the convenience of the device and ease of use. Foodsided did note its important to layer ingredients in a certain order within the jar when using the blender, and that it might take a few 20-second blends to actually break it all down. This advice echoes what the BlendJets user guide states, and its not uncommon for full-size blenders to have similar stipulations. Food & Wine also listed the BlendJet2 as one of its top six personal blenders, according to [the publications] rigorous testing.



Despite these positive reviews, the filing alleges BlendJet is fully aware of the defects in its product yet continues to market it with misleading claims, including that the device has [b]ig blender performance and powers through anything in 20 seconds flat: ice, frozen fruit, leafy greens & more.

Consumer Reports conducted its own research and product testing on the BlendJet2 earlier this year and found that its blade completely broke off during a durability test. However, despite the claims of the recent lawsuit filing, CR did not find any issues with the product with cables or battery in its charging tests.

We are concerned by the number of complaints and the severity of issues consumers are reporting about the BlendJet 2, said Ashita Kapoor, Consumer Reports associate director of product safety. Combined with what we saw in our labs, the data has prompted us to ask the government to take a closer look at this product and to advise consumers to be aware of the safety issues raised.

In response to CRs testing and results, a BlendJet spokesperson said the product was safe when used as intended.

The plaintiffs in the class action suit are seeking a jury trial as well as an award of compensatory, statutory, and punitive damages for themselves and consumers represented by the lawsuit. In the meantime, you might want to switch to a corded blender for your morning smoothies, or hit a local shop instead.

More from The Takeout

Sign up for The Takeout's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.
Turo is teaming up with a local host in Austin, Texas to rent 10 electric vehicles that day for just $14.

Courtesy of Turo

The next big solar eclipse is just a month away, and car rental company Turo wants to help travelers see it in style.

The annular solar eclipse, which will cross over the United States on Oct. 14, will result in a brilliant halo effect with the moon obscuring most of the sun. The eclipse will first appear over Oregon, delighting viewers from about 8 a.m. to 10:40 a.m. local time before moving down over the Western and Southwestern U.S. and eventually crossing over into Texas.

To celebrate the rare event, Turo  essentially the Airbnb of cars  is teaming up with a local host in Austin, Texas, to rent 10 electric vehicles that day for just $14, the company shared with Travel + Leisure. The vehicles are available to book starting Sept. 14.

The last time the U.S. witnessed a solar eclipse, hotels and car companies saw major spikes in bookings along the Path of Totality, Turo Chief Data Officer Albert Mangahas told T+L. As the first carbon-neutral certified car sharing platform with one of the largest selections of bookable electric vehicles, Turos Eclipse Viewing Party brings adventure and sustainability together in this once-in-a-lifetime guest experience.

Turo said these specific EVs come with a pair of passes to the companys own viewing party at Joshua Creek Ranch in Boerne, Texas, which sits on the path of totality and includes a Texas-style BBQ, lawn games, and more.

Travelers who want to book the special cars, which are indicated by a watermark on the listing photo, must be 21 years old or older.

Beyond Texas, space enthusiasts will be able to see the eclipse from several other states like California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona. In fact, it will be visible from three out of Utah's five national parks: Bryce Canyon National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Capitol Reef National Park.



For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure.
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has held a one-on-one meeting with President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon in Dushanbe.

Welcoming President Ilham Aliyev, President Emomali Rahmon said:

- Dear Ilham Heydar oglu, welcome to Tajikistan! Just recently, you paid a state visit to Tajikistan. I wish you a pleasant time in our country. Thank you for accepting our invitation to participate in the Summit  the Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia.

President Ilham Aliyev: Emomali Sharipovich, thank you. First of all, I would like to thank you for your invitation to attend this important event as a guest of honor. I appreciate it very much. It is a great privilege for me to participate in such an important event, and it is especially nice to be back to the beautiful city of Dushanbe.

President Emomali Rahmon: Thank you.

President Ilham Aliyev: You mentioned my state visit, which was very successful and produced good results. In order to continue our dialogue, I have already sent you an official letter regarding your state visit to Azerbaijan at your earliest convenience.

President Emomali Rahmon: Thank you very much.


















ADDIS ABABA, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopian Airlines eyes tapping the surging market in China via opening new flights, using Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, as a gateway to Africa, chief executive officer of Ethiopian Airlines Mesfin Tasew has said.

"China is a very important market for Ethiopian Airlines. We have been connecting China with Africa for the last 50 years and we would like to further expand our cooperation with China by adding more frequencies and flying to more destinations," Tasew told Xinhua in a recent interview.

Ethiopian Airlines began a freighter service to the southwestern Chinese city of Chengdu almost two weeks ago.

Tasew said Ethiopian Airlines sees China as an engine for its future growth, noting the rise in the number of investors and business persons flying from China to Africa and vice versa.

"Our cargo flights to China are not only between Africa and China but between Europe and China as well. So we have a big cargo operation in China. We have been working with the Chinese businessmen to export their manufactured products to Africa, Europe and other parts of the world," Tasew said.

Currently, Ethiopian Airlines flies to five Chinese destinations, namely, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Hong Kong with total weekly flights reaching 52 -- 28 flights for passengers and 24 flights for cargo, he said.

Recalling that Ethiopian Airlines made its first flight to Shanghai in 1973, and shifted to Beijing the same year, Tasew said China has continued to be his company's very important destination in Asia.

"The role of the Ethiopian Airlines in connecting Africa to China is tremendous. We fly to 63 cities within Africa, using Addis Ababa as a gateway," said Tasew.

Noting the indispensable role Ethiopian Airlines had played in transporting medical goods from China to Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic, Tasew said the airlines' flights to China have seen tremendous growth since January this year.

"As far as I know, the number of Chinese companies investing both in Ethiopia and the rest of Africa is on the rise. It is a good opportunity for the airline to provide services to business persons flying to China and Africa and serve as a catalyst to facilitate the business relationship," he said.

According to Tasew, his company would scale up the provision of services and access for the Chinese people to the big African market. "We believe that, in the future, the airline will continue to play an important role in the economic and diplomatic relationship between China and Africa." 
You may or may not have heard of Brown Cinema - the master video production company spear headed by Brock Nielsen and Keegan Valaika, who are planning to drop some serious video heat on the snowboard world in a big way this fall. With their upcoming film, which may still have no official title, Brown Cinema is premiering a 2 year project on October 27th in Salt Lake City, Utah alongside the Torment Magazine release party. This video features some of the best riders in snowboarding such as Nik Baden, Gabe Ferguson, Blake Paul, Jared Elston, Parker Zoom, Sam Taxwood, Cale Zima, Brandon Cocard, and many more. Brock Nielsen got on the line with some friends from Torment Magazine to discuss the meaning behind Brown Cinema, and we thought you might like to hear what he had to say.

We will see you all at the Brown Cinema movie premier and Torment Magazine Release party this fall on October 27th.

We are always on the lookout for amusing, interesting, and engaging snow-related videos to feature on our channels. Whether you are a professional rider or just an amateur, we want to see your best footage and help you share it with the world. Submit your video for a chance to be featured on SNOWBOARDER and our social channels. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch high-quality snowboarding videos.

Do not miss another headline from SNOWBOARDER! Subscribe to our newsletter and stay connected with the latest happenings in the world of snowboarding.
Cindy Crawford is considered one of the greatest supermodels of all time. After winning the Elite Look of the Year Award in the early 1980s, she began working with major fashion houses like Chanel, Thierry Mugler, and Ralph Lauren . Off the runway, she appeared in famous ads (remember her Pepsi commercial?), penned several books, guest starred on television shows, and was briefly married to A-list actor Richard Gere.

Through it all, she's had more memorable style moments than we can count, many of which are still talked about today. Ahead, we rounded up several of our favorites, so scroll through and enjoy.

August 1986

Crawford wore a fun, polka-dotted mini dress with a floppy hat and an oversized beaded necklace for the Adrienne Vittadini show.

WWD - Getty Images

April 1987

For Ralph Lauren, the supermodel sported a belted chunky sweater, an above-the-knee length skirt, and driving gloves.

WWD - Getty Images

November 1987

That same year, she donned an eye-catching graphic sweater for the Perry Ellis runway show.

WWD - Getty Images

April 1988

Next up, she attended the Hooray for Hollywood AIDS Benefit dressed in a semi-sheer chiffon top and sequined skirt.

Ron Galella - Getty Images

March 1990

In 1990, Crawford strutted down the Thierry Mugler runway in a sparkly one-piece outfit with fishnet tights and a bedazzled choker. It was a standout ensemble in every way.

Victor Virgile - Getty Images

August 1990

Later that year, the star turned heads at a Revlon event when she showed up in a deep red halter-neck dress matched with diamond jewelry. The event that night was held in New York City at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Ron Galella, Ltd. - Getty Images

August 1990

Later that month, she leveled up a casual graphic tee, varsity jacket, and a belted mini skirt with tights and a pair of black pumps for a press conference.

Ron Galella, Ltd. - Getty Images

February 1991

The California Industry Friends of AIDS Project Los Angeles event was thrown in honor of Gianni Versace, and to celebrate, Crawford went all out in a satin dress featuring a lime green and orange back.

Ron Galella, Ltd. - Getty Images

March 1991

The star attended the 1991 Academy Awards with actor Richard Gere in a timeless red dress with a plunging neckline. The model and actor had a six-year-long relationship.

Ron Galella - Getty Images

September 1991

All eyes were on Crawford at the 1991 MTV Video Music Awards when she showed up in a sequined, sleeveless black dress.

Ron Galella, Ltd. - Getty Images

October 1991

For a 1991 Dolce and Gabbana show, she floated down the runway in a graphic mini dress, black elbow-length gloves, and over-the-knee tights.

Vittoriano Rastelli - Getty Images

January 1992

She also walked the Ralph Lauren runway during New York Fashion Week in a bright white halter-neck dress with a flared skirt.

Images Press - Getty Images

April 1992

Crawford attended Vogue magazines 100th anniversary celebration in a chic Herve Leger bandage dress, feathered gloves, and black pumps.

Ron Galella, Ltd. - Getty Images

August 1992

Crawford looked sleeker than ever at the 1992 Emmy Awards in a tuxedo-inspired ensemble with strappy black heels and a matching beret.

Ron Galella, Ltd. - Getty Images

September 1992

The 1992 MTV Video Music Awards welcomed Crawford in a distinct buckled and bedazzled Versace number that Dua Lipa wore two decades later for the 2022 Grammys. Proof that the supermodels style is indeed timeless.

Ron Galella, Ltd. - Getty Images

September 1993

A year later, she decided to go with a spaghetti-strapped black dress, pointed-toe heels, and statement necklaces for MTVs annual awards ceremony.

Jim Smeal - Getty Images

September 1994

She donned a gold gown and a voluminous hairstyle at the 1994 MTV Video Music Awards.

Ron Galella, Ltd. - Getty Images

December 1994

That same year, Crawford attended the Fire and Ice Ball dressed in a navy-black gown with ribbon detailing and a small stole.

Vinnie Zuffante - Getty Images

June 1995

Crawford loves a red look. Here, shes seen arriving at the 1995 MTV Movie Awards sporting a red fitted mini dress with a red scarf and sandals.

Jeff Kravitz - Getty Images

October 1995

During Paris Fashion Week in 1995, Crawford was captured backstage with fellow supermodel Claudia Schiffer during the Chanel ready-to-wear spring/summer 1996 show. The two wore pastel looks with khaki pants, leather belts, and cropped white sweater tops.

Stephane Cardinale - Corbis - Getty Images

November 1997

Crawford dazzled in a fitted gold gown and matching oversized shawl while walking down the Todd Oldham runway in 1997.

Alexis DUCLOS - Getty Images

March 1999

The model wore a show-stopping faded zebra print dress while at a charity event in 1999.

Ron Galella, Ltd. - Getty Images

September 2002

Crawford looked like a dream in green when she was captured on camera in 2002 wearing a chartreuse button-down top with sleek black sunglasses.

ullstein bild - Getty Images

May 2009

Crawford pulled out all the stops for the 2009 Met Gala in a turquoise gown featuring a high side slit.

Stephen Lovekin - Getty Images

March 2012

She chose a slightly cropped gray blazer, white top, black pants, and boots to attend a John Varvatos benefit in 2012.

WWD - Getty Images

December 2015

Crawford keeps things easy when she's off the clock in a leather jacket, faded denim jeans, and pointed black boots.

GVK/Bauer-Griffin - Getty Images

May 2016

Balmain designed her dress for the 2016 Met Gala. It was a striking silver gown that certainly stood out on the red carpet.

Daniele Venturelli - Getty Images

May 2018

She attended the Met Gala again in 2018, and this time, she wore her favorite color red, courtesy of Versace. The camera couldnt get enough of her that night.

George Pimentel - Getty Images

October 2019

Crawford went with a classic gray-blue two-piece outfit while out and about in the Big Apple.

Raymond Hall - Getty Images

November 2021

Crawford posed with her daughter Kaia Gerber while walking an awards red carpet in 2021. The mother-daughter duo wore sleeveless sequined dresses that evening.

Frazer Harrison - Getty Images

February 2022

For Off-White's Paris Fashion Week show, fans caught her in a tiered tulle skirt, cropped blazer, and a graphic tee.

Taylor Hill - Getty Images

May 2023

Recently, Crawford was snapped in a sweet white lace dress while at a charity event in Los Angeles.

Stefanie Keenan - Getty Images

You Might Also Like
A bill that would prevent the Biden administration from enacting a policy that prohibits the use of federal funds for hunter education and scholastic archery programs was introduced yesterday in the U.S. Senate.

Last week, Sen. Jon Tester (D-Montana) announced his intention to introduce the  Defending Hunters Education Act , legislation that would force the U.S. Department of Education to reverse their decision to defund programs that teach safe gun handling, outdoor skills, and popular archery-in-schools competitions.

Tester, a Democrat, introduced the bill yesterday as an amendment to a key Senate spending package. The bill is co-sponsored by Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Bob Casey (D-Penn.), making it a rare piece of bipartisan legislation that addresses firearms.

In Montana and across rural America, our schools have long offered shooting sport and hunter safety classes that teach our students safety and personal responsibility, said Tester, who is in one of the most hotly contested re-election campaigns in the nation. But bureaucrats in Washington who dont understand our Montana values decided to block funding for these important gun safety programs. I wont let that decision stand, and neither will the hundreds of students and gun safety teachers who benefit from these resources every year.

Read Next: How the Biden Administration Defunds Hunter Education Non-Story Became a Massive Story

Testers bill would require the Department of Education to restore school districts ability to use federal resources for school archery, gun safety, and hunter education programs.

The funding comes from the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), federal legislation passed in June 2022 following mass shootings in Texas and New York . It was intended to provide funding for programs that addressed whats been called Americas mental health crisis , attempting to solve underlying social and psychiatric illnesses that express themselves in gun violence.

But bureaucrats in the Department of Education determined that a provision of the bill that prohibits funding for school resource officers and for programs that involve training in the use of a dangerous weapon would be ineligible for federal funding.

School administrators are worried that, by hosting programs like National Archery in the Schools and state-delivered hunter education classes, their schools could lose federal funding. The Senate bill is intended to preserve the federal funding source for schools that host firearms training and outdoor-skills programs.
Southwest Airlines introduced a new nonstop flight out of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, timing it with the airline opening its flight schedule through June 3, 2024.

The new nonstop flight will be Southwest's first route between Phoenix and Washington, D.C., via Dulles International Airport.

Southwest will offer the flights five days a week starting in April 2024. When the flights launch, Southwest will be the third airline with nonstop service between Phoenix and Washington, D.C., according to Sky Harbor's website.

United Airlines flies between Phoenix and Dulles, about 30 miles west of downtown Washington in Dulles, Virginia. American Airlines flies between Phoenix and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, the closest airport to downtown Washington.

See new cities: Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport has added all these new flights so far in 2023

When will the new Southwest Phoenix-Washington, D.C., flights begin?

Southwest Airlines will begin flying nonstop from Phoenix to Washington, D.C. on April 9, 2024.

The flights will operate five times a week, Thursdays through Mondays. Book at www.southwest.com.

New flights, plus new restaurants: Everything that just opened in Terminal 4

How much are airfares for the new Southwest flight?

On Sept. 14, The Arizona Republic found $189 fares for Phoenix-Washington flights on the following dates:

April: 11-13, 25-27.

May: 2-3, 9.

The Republic found $179 fares for Washington-Phoenix flights on the following dates:

April: 11-15, 18-22, 25, 27-29.

May: 2, 4-6, 9, 11-13, 16, 18, 20, 25-26, 30-31.

June: 1, 3.

Why visit Washington, D.C.?

The nation's capital is abundant in monuments dedicated to U.S. history and politics. Many of those landmarks, from the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial and monuments for World War II and Vietnam War veterans, can be found in National Mall, an area with more than 100 monuments and memorials that the National Park Service describes as "America's front yard."

Washington is also popular for its cultural and historic experiences, like the 17 Smithsonian Institution museums and galleries  all free of charge  that include the Museum of Natural History, the Air and Space Museum, the American History Museum and the National Zoo. Georgetown, the city's oldest neighborhood, is a prime shopping, dining and nightlife hub.

Southwest's Phoenix-Washington flights will debut near the end of the peak of the cherry blossom season, one of the most popular times to visit.

Reach the reporter at Michael.Salerno@gannett.com. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter: @salerno_phx.

Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Southwest Airlines adds new Phoenix-Washington DC flight: How to book
Sometime around noon, I must have dozed off following an early morning drive through the bush. The sound of crunching leaves and a faint grunt roused me. It wasnt our host approaching my chalet. Sitting up slowly, I saw the trunk of an elephant pulling on a tree branch for its afternoon snack, outside a fenced window to my right. After filling up, it led its small family to the watering hole just ahead of my chalet. Thats how you wake up in one of Zambias most luxurious bushcamp stays.

Founded in 1999 by Andy Hogg and Andrea Bizzaro, the Bushcamp Company resides in South Luangwa National Park with six exclusive bushcamps and three lodges in the remote south of the park. The closest airport to its main grounds is Mfuwe International Airport. Its a 45-minute drive to the company headquarters, Mfuwe Lodge, our first nights stay. Hogg, a native Zambian, was there to greet us and give the lay of the land. Glancing around the open-air site set near two hippo-filled lagoons, I felt a world away from home as we began to embark on our four-site tour across the grounds.

More from Robb Report

With 18 waterfront rooms, peeping pachyderms might stop by at Mfuwe Lodge

Mfuwe Lodge spans 18 waterfront chalets with a swimming pool and spa, bar, and dining area. My room had a king-size bed covered with a mosquito net and a modern bathroom with separate shower and restroom facilities. Although I had a run in with a large but harmless black spider in my room that evening, youll want to brave the bugs on the outdoor patio overlooking the lagoon where hippos make their laugh-like croaks.

Following a scenic-view breakfast alongside a pack of impalas the next morning, our group left for the Zungulila bushcamp. Unlike the lodge where we had Wi-Fi and air-conditioning, it was set in a more secluded area of the park. Yet it supplied us with clean, regularly tested water sourced from deep boreholes (water wells) for drinking, showers, and meals prepared by head chef Wendy Dunnlike all nine properties in the Bushcamp Company fold. Solar panel displays on site here also helped to heat water for showers, fuel camp lighting, and power kitchen equipment.

Sure, the lodges and camps are nice, but youll want to spend your time at Zungulila in the back of a Land Rover.

Zungulila was the most peaceful of the four sites I experienced, open April to January yearly with four chalets that provide stunning outdoor bathtubs and landscape views. You wont have charging outlets for your devices here beyond the central lounge, bar, and dining area, where we all scrambled to power things in the mornings and before bed. One evening, I forgot to charge my phone and it died back at my chalet: Not being able to recharge it and try checking in on emails or social feeds just made for a better nights rest.

The second bushcamp, named Bilimungwe, or Bili as Hogg calls it, is open May to December. This four-chalet outpost has watering holes placed behind each accommodation, which afford you unforgettable views of kudu, baboons, puku, elephants, and the occasional leopard. The sites quirky lodge manager Alex Stewart is a gracious host, sharing captivating stories of years past at the camp over dinners and during sunrise breakfasts overlooking the Luangwa River. This was the best stay of our tour because it offered both an exciting kind of peace and unfettered charm. One final note: Two of its chalets, including mine, had bats inside that came out at night, but heywhen in nature, right?

Water brings out the animals at the four chalet Bilimungwe.

Robb Report was also one of the first to experience the newly opened KuKaya Lodge by the Bushcamp Company. Open year-round, it houses five tented villas with two separate rooms inside. A single-unit villa is also available to guests as a sixth room for a minimum of two guests. While its luxe facilities range from a kitchen with a stocked fridge to a fire pit and private swimming pool, it felt disappointingly generic and rather too similar to a luxe accommodation you could find anywhereminus its ties to late Zambian president Kenneth Kaunda whose former holiday home resided here.

Despite this, KuKaya Lodge felt like the best accommodation for a large group or families. In fact, over dinner and drinks on a few evenings we were joined by one family who were happy with their stay. I also say this because aside from the baboons, I felt least aware here about what animals could be lurking outside my villa or potentially agitated by, say, the sounds of a crying toddler. Children under the age of 12 arent permitted to join in on walking safaris in the park. Youll also need to reserve a private camp or hire a private guide and vehicle for the duration of your stay if youre traveling with children under the age of 11.

I experienced two walking safaris, both led by our amazing guide Fannuel Banda who has been with Bushcamp Company for 17 years. His expertise led us close enough to a giraffe for picture-taking one morning nearby the Kapamba River. We also trailed a pack of wild dogs and witnessed a leopard scale a tree to catch a baboon on separate game drives he hosted. It was spectacular. Night drives featured the famous sundowners, or stops along the river at sundown for refreshments and a view. We also enjoyed special surprises which are factored into every guest experience. They range from a lunch in the bush to an evening kickback set in the river, complete with Dunns delicious meals like chicken skewers with wine or family-friendly pizza and taco-making on site.

KuKaya Lodge is the latest lodge to open.

There is more to come here, though. Hogg walked us through a blocked off section of KuKaya Lodge where hes constructing an upscale boma/guest area overlooking the nearby lagoon. It houses a sunken rondavel section where Kaunda held private meetings; guests will be able to enjoy drinks here with their group. At dinner one evening, Hogg mentions one other natural perk he aims to factor into the guest experience.

The annual bat migration at Kasanka National Park in Zambia happens each November, he says. For discerning safari goers, the combination of the Kasanka bat migration and the Mfuwe Lodge elephants in reception will be an unforgettable experience.

Rates for all four locations range from $480 to $630 per person a night.

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.
How do you celebrate the launch of a new ladies watch with plenty of diamonds on the bezel? Head to Iceland and bring along an artist who is used to getting close-up with ice. Vacheron Constantin debuted the new Overseas Self-Winding Gold in Iceland with its new ambassador, Zaria Forman, an artist and explorer whose work reflects her fascination with the landscapes of Iceland, including glaciers that are disappearing into the sea. I show the beauty of what we stand to lose in my drawings in order to inspire people, says Forman. When you fall in love with something, you want to protect it.

Zaria Forman

Forman walks the walk. She has flown several times with NASAs Operation IceBridge, which runs airborne scientific missions over Antarctica, Greenland, and the Canadian Arctic, and helps to map changes in Earths ice over the last decade. She was an artist-in-residence aboard the National Geographic Explorer in Antarctica and was responsible for the first permanent exhibitions of polar art on Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution ships.

More from Robb Report

Her work, on display now at the Harpa Center in Reykjavik, Iceland, focuses on elements of nature, including the intricate details of a snow-dusted glacier, the blue-tinged reflections of ice in water, and foam-crested waves. She paints them by smudging soft pastel pigments on paper, without tools, using only her fingertips or the palm of her hand.

Zaria Forman's "Fellsfjara"

Time is the key element in both Vacheron Constantins work and my own, says the artist. The immense time it takes for a glacier to grow, the moment in time that I experience sunlight glistening on the side of an iceberg, the split second I capture it in a photo, the many weeks or months I spend exploring that moment in all its details to complete a drawing, the time it takes for the ice to melt. I want viewers to consider the future by looking through the prism of history that lives inside glacial remains.

One of her works, Fellsfjara, depicting the ice at Fellsfjara, Iceland, is owned by Vacheron Constantin. I was captivated by a phenomenon I saw there, through the ice. Chunks of recently calved, compressed glacier ice were washed up onto a black sand beach, she says

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Selfwinding

The watch was launched this week in conjunction with the debut of Vacherons new One of Not Many campaign, starring Forman. It is not identified as a ladies piece, and at 35 mm wide and a comfortable 9.33 mm thick, it works for either gender, even with (or these days, especially with) the diamonds. Both the case and integrated bracelet are solid 18-karat rose gold. The matching gold-tone dial gives it a tone-on-tone look, with a satin-brushed surface finished in transparent lacquer.

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Selfwinding

The bezel is not so much set with diamonds as slathered: there are 90 round brilliants on the six-sided bezel, arranged in a way that forms a stylized Maltese cross, Vacherons signature motif. It comes with two extra straps, one in white calfskin leather and the other in white rubber, and its water-resistant to a sporty 150 meters.

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Selfwinding Caseback

The movement is the automatic caliber 1088/1, also used in Vacherons Egerie collection, with hours, minutes, and seconds, and it is equipped with a stop-second mechanism for precise setting. It has a 40-hour power reserve. Through the open caseback, you can see the cotes de Geneve decoration on the bridges and the gold rotor engraved with a compass rose, a reference to travel and exploration. It is priced at $58,500.

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.


"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."



The View audience experienced some truly interesting moments while watching Matthew McConaughey promote his new children's book, Just Because.

The actor appeared on a September 12 taping of the show to discuss his project with Whoopi Goldberg , Joy Behar , Sara Haines, Sunny Hostin and Alyssa Farah Griffin.

The conversation went fine enough...until they played a 2006 clip that shows Matthew giving Joy a foot massage. After showing it, Joy put her foot on the table, and to everyone's surprise, Matthew obliged in rubbing it. After a minute or so, Whoopi put an end to it by saying, "We're just going to let all of that go by," which prompted Joy to say "thank you," and move on.

However, the discussion turned much more serious after the actor shared why he started a new initiative for his Just Keep Living Foundation. The Greenlights Grant Initiative works by connecting schools with grant writers so they can get money from the government to create safer learning conditions. It began after Matthew and his wife got involved with school safety in the wake of the horrific shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, which is Matthew's hometown.

"We found out these superintendents have to fill out these grantsa lot of them are also driving the school bus, they're the PE teacher and this grant is 50 pages and intimating, so they don't have the expertise or the time," Matthew revealed. "So we're helping with the grant wiring process. We hire grant writers to come on and go to these schools throughout the United States that need the safest schools the mostwe're helping them write the grant."

After seeing and learning more about Matthew's commitment, over the past few months, many people have suggested he run for political office. When Sunny brought up the topic, Matthew made it clear that it's not out of the question, but right now, he's focusing on fatherhood. But when Joy asked him if he thought he could become an elected official in his home state of Texas while being "anti-gun," things took a turn.

"One thing about me and politics isto give you a direct statement right there," Matthew said while pointing at her. "It's playing a game that I'm not interested in playing." That led Joy to hold up her hands and say, "Okay, don't do it." You can see it at the 10:06 mark:

As Whoopi witnessed Matthew and Joy's exchange play out, she decided to quickly turn to the audience and revealed a surprise for them.

"I have to tell you, everybody in this audience," she announced as Matthew looked on. "Just so you know, everybodys going home with a copy of the book."

Some viewers left in the comments that they felt the exchange was "awkward" even though Whoopi managed to shift the conversation so swiftly.

Sunny also shared during the second segment that she believed Matthew's stance was "pro gun responsibility and legislation," to which he replied "facts."

If you want to learn more about Matthew's initiative, go to GreenlightsGrantInitiative.org. For more on gun safety, visit Everytown.org.

You Might Also Like
The Royal Rumble is coming to Florida.

WWE has announced it will bring the 37th Royal Rumble to Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg  the home of baseballs Tampa Bay Rays  on Saturday, Jan. 27.

The Royal Rumble, one of WWEs biggest annual events, is highlighted by a pair of matches of the same name. The winners of the 2024 30-man and 30-woman Royal Rumble matches  essentially a free-for-all in the ring in which the objective is to throw your opponents over the top rope  will be granted championship matches at WrestleMania 40.

Heres what to know about the 2024 Royal Rumble.

Tropicana Field in Tampa Bay (Mike Carlson / MLB Photos via Getty Images)

Where will the 2024 Royal Rumble take place?

Tropicana Field in Tampa Bay/St. Petersburg will host the 2024 Royal Rumble. It will mark the first time the Royal Rumble will be held in Tampa Bay in front of fans since 1995, according to WWE.

This years Royal Rumble was held at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. Cody Rhodes won the 2023 mens Royal Rumble match at that event, while Rhea Ripley was the last superstar standing in the womens Royal Rumble match.

When is the 2024 Royal Rumble?

The 2024 Royal Rumble is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 27. WWE says it will hold an entire weekend of events in the St. Petersburg, Clearwater and Tampa areas during Royal Rumble time. Its Monday Night Raw program will air from Amalie Arena in Tampa on Jan. 29.

Which WWE superstars will take part in the 2024 Royal Rumble?

The card for the 2024 Royal Rumble has yet to be announced, but the official Instagram account for Tropicana Field shared an ad for the event and it features top names like Rhodes, Ripley, Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch ... but not the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, Roman Reigns, which fans noted in the comments. What that means (or doesn't mean) for the event remains to be seen.

How do you get tickets for the 2024 Royal Rumble?

WWE says it will announce ticket information in the coming weeks. You can register for a presale passcode here.

How can you watch the 2024 Royal Rumble?

All WWE premium live events are streamed on Peacock. (Peacock is owned by TODAY.coms parent company, NBCUniversal.)

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
TREMPEALEAU - When Barry Drazkowski moved his family cabin to the shores of Third Lake in Trempealeau in 1971, the water was crystal-clear.

Fish abounded and so did anglers intent on catching them. He recalled sitting on his front lawn and watching a steady stream of boats motor past.

Today, the water is barely visible under thick mats of bright green algae. A few fishers still try their luck, but it's hard for a hook to pierce through. Nearby Second Lake, which has the same problem, looks more like a lawn than a body of water. Locals joke that you could walk your dog across it.

"It's not like it used to be," Drazkowski said. "It's changed a lot for us."

These two lakes, plus another  First Lake  are part of what's known as the Trempealeau Lakes, located just south of the village of Trempealeau, in far-western Wisconsin. They've long been a prized natural resource in the region, beloved for fishing and recreation. Though many so-called lakes along the Mississippi River are languid backwaters that connect to the river, these three are their own entity. They're spring-fed from groundwater that filters down from higher altitudes.

Barry Drazkowski, left, a board member for Friends of Trempealeau Lakes, and Todd Ondell, vice chair of the group, scan the algae on Third Lake.

Right now, that's a big source of their problems.

Those higher grounds are dominated by farmland, and excess nitrogen from fertilizer and irrigation systems is leaking through the soil and ending up in the lakes, producing the perfect conditions for algae to bloom. Data from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources shows that nitrogen levels in Second Lake, for example, have tripled since the 1970s.

More: It's been more than a decade since Wisconsin cracked down on phosphorus. Has it helped protect our lakes and rivers?

Drazkowski and other residents with a vested interest in improving the lakes are stepping up to try to help them. They formed a nonprofit, Friends of Trempealeau Lakes, to convince area farmers to reduce nitrogen use. Bud Hammes, who has a summer cottage near the lakes, and chairs the group, said participants hope to bolster government efforts, which often lack funding, and demonstrate that the community cares about issues like these.

"There's a vacuum in how these kinds of environmental issues can be addressed," Hammes said. "Without grassroots community organizing groups to say we have a problem here, and bringing people together and finding resources, these problems don't get solved."

A frog sits on algae just off the shoreline of First Lake.

Sandy soils allow more nitrogen to slip down into lakes

The farm fields just above the lakes, a 30-square-mile area known as the Trempealeau Terrace, are owned by about a dozen people and used for cash crops, especially corn. That land has always been agricultural, Drazkowski said. But in the 1990s, producers turned to so-called "pivot irrigation" to maximize crop yields, which groundwater experts say can, in some cases, result in increased nitrogen leaching.

The type of soil in the region doesn't help. It's sandy, which allows water and other nutrients to drain through more easily than in other soil types. Trempealeau lies in one of the more susceptible areas in the state to groundwater nitrogen pollution, said Shawn Giblin, a water quality specialist for the DNR who works in the Mississippi River region.

That area isn't alone.

Nitrate is the most widespread contaminant of Wisconsin's groundwater, and a 2022 report from the Wisconsin Groundwater Coordinating Council said the contamination is "increasing in extent and severity." Dozens of municipal water supply systems have had nitrate levels that exceed safe limits, according to the report, and about 10% of private wells exceed that standard too. In intensely agricultural areas, double or triple that many well samples exceed it, the report says. While some nitrate pollution in groundwater can come from septic systems and lawn fertilizers, an estimated 90% comes from agricultural sources.

Repeated complaints about the condition of the three lakes gave rise to a study of their conditions. Giblin collected samples from six spots across each of the lakes during the summer of 2021 to measure nitrogen and phosphorus, along with several other parameters. He presented those results to area residents in early 2022, but as both he and Hammes agreed, they didn't need data to know something was wrong.

More: How local Wisconsin groups monitor toxic algae in the absence of state testing

Trying to navigate the lakes to collect samples, Giblin recounted, was like trying to canoe over wet carpet. At the beginning of the study, he even witnessed something that he'd only seen once before in his career: a whiting event, which happens when the pH of a water body is so high that calcium carbonate is produced, turning the water milky white. An overabundance of algae production can raise the pH, he said.

"It just shows you how out of sync things are down there," Giblin said.

Luckily, the algae in the Trempealeau Lakes is not blue-green algae, which can be toxic to people and pets  though that's a problem in the nearby Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge. But it can have other effects on the environment, like depleting oxygen to the point that fish can't survive. And the sick-looking water drives people away from recreating there, a blow for the region's strong outdoor tourism economy.

Group aims for a non-judgmental approach to working with farmers

Friends of Trempealeau Lakes leaders, including Hammes and vice chair Todd Ondell, are taking a cautious approach to reaching out to farmers to discuss reducing nitrogen. Their aim is to find a way that farmers can cut back on nitrogen use while still producing successful crop yields  starting with those who are already interested in such strategies, then expanding as they build trust.

Finger-pointing, Hammes argued, not only doesn't work, but isn't fair.

"We're not coming into this with any judgmental attitude," he said. "We have this problem and we know that (agriculture is) one of the sources of the problem, not because anyone has purposely been doing it."

More: In this western Wisconsin river, scientists see hope for saving endangered mussel species

In late August, they met with their first producer, who farms about 3,000 acres of corn, soybeans, alfalfa and other crops. The farmer spoke about what he's already doing to reduce nitrogen leaching, like cover cropping and applying fertilizer more precisely. He also touched on challenges farmers face: money to buy costly equipment, complex rules for government conservation programs and weather unpredictability, among others.

Bud Hammes, the chair of a community group called Friends of Trempealeau Lakes, stands on a pier surrounded by algae on Second Lake.

The Friends will try to figure out how to address those problems, helping farmers find resources that can both help them stay profitable and lessen their environmental impact. Reducing nitrogen alone could have a big impact, Giblin explained, because curtailing one nutrient that leads to algae growth will slow its overall growth entirely.

If the effort works, it could serve as a template for other environmental and agricultural partnerships across the state. Hammes hopes that because the number of farmers involved is relatively small, they'll be able to find common ground and work together.

"This isn't something we're going to have solved by next year. This is a change of practice that will take some years to really see results," Hammes said. "But if we don't get started, we'll never be successful."

In the meantime, the group has other plans, too. They want to raise enough money to conduct a small dredging project in Second Lake, deepening the lake bottom about nine feet near a fishing float to provide better habitat for fish. That would also slow the proliferation of curlyleaf pondweed, an invasive species that needs access to sunlight to feed its explosive growth.

Their work will dovetail with an upcoming project by Trempealeau County's Department of Land Management, which received a roughly $11,000 grant from the DNR to develop a management plan for First and Second lakes. The department will be able to assess the lakes' historical water quality and identify problems and threats to the ecosystem, said director Mike Kornmann.

A fishing boat navigates algae and lily pads off the shores of Third Lake.

Kornmann said having a nonprofit group advocating for the health of the lakes could be a boon, particularly if they're able to engage everyone that uses, impacts and cares about them.

Giblin is also optimistic that their approach can work.

"It's uplifting to see people band together to protect something ... they recognize their community's really tied to these regionally important lakes, and they're doing something about it," he said. "I think they're going to be really successful."

Madeline Heim is a Report for America corps reporter who writes about environmental issues in the Mississippi River watershed and across Wisconsin. Contact her at 920-996-7266 or mheim@gannett.com.

Please consider supporting journalism that informs our democracy with a tax-deductible gift to this reporting effort at jsonline.com/RFA or by check made out to The GroundTruth Project with subject line Report for America Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Campaign. Address: The GroundTruth Project, Lockbox Services, 9450 SW Gemini Dr, PMB 46837, Beaverton, Oregon 97008-7105.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Group aims to curb algae issues on once-pristine Wisconsin lakes
TAFEGHAGHTE, Morocco  Three days after an earthquake leveled his village, Abdul Karim said he was still waiting for the government to come and help his devastated community.

Were not asking for much  not villas, just small homes, he said, adding that regular Moroccans had been bringing food to this area about an hours drive south of Marrakech but that he and his fellow villagers have seen little official help. Hundreds of people have had their homes damaged. Theyre without shelter.

They are waiting for the government to do something, he said.

Three miles north, in the town of Amizmiz, long lines of people waited Tuesday in the baking morning sun for aid handouts from troops. Some expressed frustration about the amount of aid that has been provided, with military officers doing their best to calm the crowds.

They arent alone in criticizing the Moroccan government for being slow to help after the powerful quake struck Friday, killing at least 2,800 people. Some residents have complained the rescue crews didnt show up for days, leaving families to dig through the rubble themselves by hand.

Morocco Earthquake Devastation (Bulent Kilic / AFP - Getty Images)

The government and King Mohammed VI have been unusually quiet for a country reeling from a natural disaster, having released only a few short statements. And while officials from some countries, such as the United Kingdom, have praised the relief effort, some experts have questioned Moroccos apparent reluctance to accept help from other countries, raising the question of whether choosiness is motivated by geopolitics.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the U.S. is ready to help in any way that we can, but he said in an interview Sunday with ABC News that he was still waiting to hear from the Moroccan government about whether help was needed or wanted.

France, Moroccos ruler from 1912 to 1956, has been told its help wasnt required, a spokesperson for the French foreign ministry, Anne-Claire Legendre, told French radio Sunday.

Moroccan authorities know exactly what can be delivered, French President Emmanuel Macron said Sunday at the Group of 20 summit in New Delhi. We are at their disposal.

French officials have sought to downplay the suggestion that it boils down to Moroccos frosty relationship with its former rulers in Paris. But Morocco itself made no attempt to downplay the idea that its acceptance of aid has been politically selective, with its Interior Ministry saying Sunday that, for the time being, it was taking in search teams only from four friendly countries: Spain, the U.K., Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. If needed, the statement added, it would accept aid from other friendly countries.

Aftermath Of Earthquake In Marrakech (Carl Court / Getty Images)

Moroccos foreign minister hasnt responded to a request for comment about why it hadnt accepted offers of help from other countries.

Morocco has been picky about donor countries because of a mixture of pride and incompetence, said Lise Storm, a professor specializing in North African politics at Englands University of Exeter. It might sound a bit harsh saying that about the Moroccan government at this time  but its true.

She and other analysts arent surprised the country refused aid from France  you dont want aid from the former colonial power  and the U.S. is often treated with trepidation because it is always seen as a meddler by Morocco and others in the region, she said.

Domestically, Morocco does hold democratic elections, but the king retains full dominance of the countrys political institutions and can disband the legislature or dismiss Cabinet members.

The disaster response reinforces the idea that the government doesnt care about the impoverished mountain communities rocked by the quake, Storm added, instead favoring wealthier metropolitan populations and foreign tourists.

Morocco King Earthquake (Fadel Senna / AFP via Getty Images)

As usual with such disasters, aid agencies are a key part of the picture. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has released 1 million Swiss francs ($1.1 million) to help with the effort. Such independent agencies have to maintain relationships with their host countries and usually don't comment.

When asked about the ongoing response in Morocco, and how it may compare to other countries' in similar situations, Todd Bernhardt, a spokesperson for the International Medical Corps, said in an email: As a non-partisan, neutral humanitarian aid organization, we never comment on questions that cover geopolitics, national politics or policy.

Local news is awash with stories from Spanish rescue teams impressed by the professionalism of their Moroccan counterparts. And so far things have gone smoothly, said Rob Norman, a command support officer with the U.K. International Search and Rescue Team, which responds to international disasters on behalf of the British Foreign Office.

The initial challenge in every sort of disaster situation, initially, is getting into the country, which thankfully, due to the brilliant relationships between the U.K. government and Moroccan government, we were able to do very swiftly, he said. Weve established this base of operations, weve deployed teams out into the field yesterday, which I think is a demonstration of how swiftly that whole process has been managed.

For people like Zahra Ait Abdalah, 50, whose home in the neighborhood of Douar Dlam, a suburb of Marrakech, was destroyed, help cant come soon enough.

We have nothing, because all of our belongings  our money, clothes, everything  were inside, said Abdalah, who is seeking shelter in a tent with her husband and five children.

The roof fell on my head, and I was injured, she added. Now I have nothing to wear. And I have nothing to eat.

Matt Bradley, Raf Sanchez, Susan Archer and Bill OReilly reported from Morocco and Alexander Smith from London. Charlene Gubash contributed from Morocco.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
TEHRAN, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- A ceremony celebrating the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC) was held Tuesday at the Chinese embassy in the Iranian capital Tehran.

The function was attended by Chinese Ambassador to Iran Chang Hua and Iran's Vice President for Parliamentary Affairs Mohammad Hosseini.

Addressing the ceremony, the Chinese ambassador hailed China's brilliant development achievements over the past 74 years and anticipated even brighter future development, noting China's development approach promotes win-win cooperation.

On the bilateral relations with Iran, the ambassador said China and Iran have always supported each other and maintained solidarity and cooperation regardless of changes in the international situation.

Congratulating Iran's recent accession to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and BRICS, he said cooperation between the two countries goes beyond the bilateral frameworks.

For his part, the Iranian vice president congratulated the government and people of China on the occasion and voiced Iran's respect for the PRC and its achievements.

Speaking to Xinhua on the sidelines of the ceremony, Hosseini thanked the Chinese government for supporting Iran's membership in the SCO and BRICS and helping Tehran and Riyadh resume their diplomatic relations. 
Andys Frozen Custard is eyeing a new location on the north side of Mt. Juliet.

The site being considered is a vacant lot next to The Paper Mill on the west side of North Mt. Juliet Road, according to property owner Mark Lineberry.

City approval is still needed. A site plan still needs to be submitted for planning commission review.

Interest is being shown to build an Andy's Frozen Custard in Mt. Juliet.

A pre-application meeting for Andys Frozen Custard was held in August with the Mt. Juliet Planning Department, according to office staff and Lineberry.

Andys Frozen Custard specializes in a variety of flavors. Restaurants can be found in 15 states with more than 135 locations, according to the company website. Middle Tennessee locations include Gallatin, Spring Hill and two in Murfreesboro. One is being built in Smyrna, according to the website.

Specific design plans for Mt. Juliet haven't been finalized. But Lineberry estimates a 1,000-square-foot building with a walk-up window, drive-thru and covered patio. No indoor seating is included in the original plan, Lineberry said.

Bluffs at Cedar Creek plan voted down by commissioners

A mixed-use development that proposed 170 townhomes, commercial space and an additional lane of traffic at a congested intersection on Mt. Juliets north side was voted down this week.

The Bluffs at Cedar Creek was planned on more than 34 acres on the north side of Lebanon Road between Nonaville and North Mt. Juliet roads and just west of Meb Court.

The impact of adding students to an overburdened school system was a big part of previous discussions about the plan, which was deferred twice leading up to Mondays 3-2 vote by city commissioners.

Ray Justice, the commissioner who represents the development's district, did support The Bluffs at Cedar Creek, believing it was the opportunity to add commercial business and infrastructure without a property tax increase, he said.

This is a very limited area, and we all want retail and dining options, Justice said. Those options only come when the residential numbers are in place.

A condition to the development was a fourth lane on North Mt. Juliet Road approaching the intersection of Lebanon Road. The additional lane would have allowed for two dedicated left turn lanes, a new through lane and the right-turn lane. The intersection now has three northbound lanes  one for left turns only, a middle lane for both left turns and entry into Publix and the right-turn lane.

Reach Andy Humbles at ahumbles@tennessean.com or 615-726-5939 and on X, formerly known as Twitter @ AndyHumbles.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Andy's Frozen Custard looks to continue Middle Tennessee expansion
A herd in Ziebach County has had several animals die after they contracted anthrax, according to the South Dakota Animal Industry Board on Sept. 12, 2023.

PIERRE  Several animals were found dead in Ziebach County this week after they contracted anthrax, a deadly disease than can affect all livestock, according to the South Dakota Animal Industry Board in a press release Tuesday.

The animals were part of an unvaccinated herd containing about 150 pairs, the release states. South Dakota State University's Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory confirmed the disease from samples submitted by the herd's veterinarian.

"The Animal Industry Board has quarantined the affected herd and will quarantine any additional affected herds," the release states.

More: 'It was like a battlefield': South Dakota stock dams potentially deadly for cattle because of ongoing drought

If an anthrax in an animal is suspected, it's best to contact your local vet or the board at 605-773-3321. The board urges residents do not move suspected carcasses until a diagnosis has been made, the release states.

"Proper handling of carcasses by burning and burying is extremely important," the release states. "Anthrax is an economically devastating disease for all livestock, because it can cause rapid loss of many animals in a short time. Affected animals are often found dead. Anthrax spores survive indefinitely in soil and much of South Dakota has the potential of having contaminated soil. Weather events, such as drought, floods and winds can expose the anthrax spores to livestock."

Certain soul types, high humidity and temperatures can also affect anthrax spores. Preventative actions by herd owners are so important for herd health, especially in the summer months, according to South Dakota State Veterinarian Dr. Beth Thompson in the release. Establish a working relationship with your local veterinarian, check your cattle frequently, and investigate any suspicious deaths on pasture. Preventative measures such as vaccination are available.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Anthrax found in Zeibach County beef herd, SD Animal Industry Board says
SINGAPORE  Insurance company Aviva has announced its exit from its Singapore Life Holdings (Singlife) joint venture, selling a 25.9 per cent stake for S$900 million.

In a statement on Wednesday (13 September), Aviva said that together with two debt instruments, buyer Sumitomo Life will be paying a total of S$1.4 billion.

Sumitomo Life is currently a 23.2 per cent shareholder in Singlife and sees Singapore as a key market within its overall Southeast Asia strategy, Aviva said.

Amanda Blanc, group chief executive officer of Aviva, said, "This is a good outcome for Aviva. The transaction further simplifies the business and we are in a very strong position to build on our trading momentum in the UK, Ireland and Canada."

Aviva's exit from the Singlife joint venture represents a further step in the simplification of Aviva's footprint following the international disposal programme completed in 2021.

"It is also consistent with the group's ambition to focus on its capital-light business units. Aviva sold its majority stake in Aviva Singapore to a consortium led by Singlife in 2020," it said.

Aviva added that the disposal proceeds will be considered alongside Aviva's existing capital management framework. "Under this framework, any surplus capital is available for reinvestment in the business, bolt-on M&A, and/or additional returns to shareholders."

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals where required, and is expected to complete in Q4 2023.

In 2022, Singlife contributed 17 million (S$28.9 million) to Avivas operating profit. The combined carrying value of the equity stake and debt holdings contributed 729 million to Aviva's net asset value as at 30 June.

Aviva previously said it was on track to meet its target to cut 750 million worth of costs by 2024.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter.

Yahoo Singapore Telegram
Let's be honest, there is nothing better than bagging cheap flights. Genuinely, NOTHING BETTER. And thankfully the British Airways flight end of summer sale has begun, meaning you can now bag return flights to New York for as little as 333. Yes, you ready that currently return flights to New York for under 350. Get ready Carrie Bradshaw, were coming for you.

The cheapest New York flights seem to be for November this year, ideal for a pre-Christmas trip, living our best Elf life. Dont have enough holiday left for the year? Prices are still at 333 for return flights in February and March 2024, just as spring is starting in the city.

New York flights arent the only exciting option on offer in the end of summer sale with both flights and hotels to a variety of destinations included, which equals some big savings on your next trip abroad.

The discounts are eligible on trips up until the end of 2024, meaning you could plan that big trip youve always dreamt of to Los Angeles for next summer from 412 return flights or have a quick winter sun getaway before the end of the year to Miami for 418 return this November.

Getty Images

North America not your thing? Not to worry as there are also plenty of offers available on flights to Dubai, Mauritius, Tel Aviv and Mumbai too.

The sale not only offers discounted flights but also hotel and flight packages too. How does seven nights in Barbados for 749 sound? Or how about a little closer to home with seven nights in Portugal from 219. Yeah were booking straightaway.

The sale ends on 3rd October, so youve got to be quick when it comes to booking that dream getaway.

Getty Images

Better get putting in those holiday requests.

FIND OUT MORE

[/editoriallinks]

You Might Also Like
A Boise woman was one of the first to break through the police line and enter the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, when a violent mob of Donald Trump supporters was trying to disrupt certification of Joe Bidens victory in the presidential election.

Video footage showed Yvonne St Cyr yelling, We need fresh people and push, push, push. In the past three years, she has continued posting conspiracy theories about the government online.

If she wants to protest the 2024 presidential election, shell have to do it from prison.

A Washington, D.C., federal judge on Wednesday sentenced St Cyr, 55, to 30 months in prison and three years of supervised release, according to a Department of Justice news release. District Judge John D. Bates also ordered her to pay $3,000 in restitution and fines.

In March, a jury convicted St Cyr of two felony counts of obstructing and interfering with law enforcement during a civil disorder, and four misdemeanors: entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds; disorderly conduct in a Capitol building; and parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building.

After the sentencing, St Cyr took to social media to sound off.

I will have a report date probably in about six weeks, St Cyr said in a Facebook video. So weve got six weeks for America to figure it out and stand up and get some truth, or Im going to jail. But thats OK, because if I go to jail, Im going to take a lot of information with me and Im going to teach a lot of women how to think and become free individuals.

She also said she thought it was unfair that the judge wouldnt allow her to play a video compilation of former President Trump speaking. She also claimed that she hasnt been paying taxes since President Joe Biden took office, and she encouraged others to stop paying them as well.

Yvonne St Cyr, an Idaho resident, posted at least two photos on Facebook after getting inside the U.S. Capitol during a riot on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021.

St Cyr showed lack of remorse and disrespect, U.S. attorney said

A mob of rioters stormed the Capitol in 2021 on the day that Congress was certifying the election results. They attacked law enforcement officers and vandalized the building, including lawmakers offices. At least seven people died in connection with the violence, including officers who died by suicide, according to a bipartisan Senate report.

St Cyr traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend Trumps rally, where he repeated falsehoods about the election being rigged in Bidens favor and urged his followers to fight like hell. After leaving the rally, she joined a crowd of people occupying the West Plaza of the Capitol, according to the Justice Department release. St Cyr was part of a group who broke through a police line, and she was one of the first to enter the Lower West Plaza tunnel, prosecutors said.

Evidence showed that she crawled through a broken window into a Senate office space and helped another rioter enter as well.

Matthew Graves, U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, said in court documents that St Cyr showed no remorse for her actions. After the trial, she publicly called the United States justice system corrupt and proclaimed that she had every right to be there when speaking about the Capitol riot.

Her words show a lack of remorse, disrespect for the law, and disregard for the legal process, Graves said in the sentencing memorandum.

Photo evidence showed the entrance to the tunnel used by Yvonne St Cyr as it appeared on Inauguration Day.

Her family wrote letters of support for the judge to review for sentencing. Husband Troy St Cyr parroted Trump by writing about fraudulent election tampering.

I understand you may feel she made a mistake and what she did was not right, but I am proud of her and what she stood up for, wrote her daughter, Kayla Rodriguez. She practiced her freedom of speech. She didnt riot or break/damage property, and she stood her ground through all of this.

Graves had recommend that St Cyr be given 33 months in prison, pointing out a history of criminal activity. St Cyr was arrested in December 2020 for trespassing after she refused to leave Boises Central District Health building during a meeting about the COVID-19 pandemic and health measures being taken. She was dishonorably discharged from the U.S. Marine Corps for a drug offense.

Six Idahoans were charged for their involvement in the U.S. Capitol riots.

Other Idahoans charged in Capitol riot

Nearly 1,000 people have been arrested and charged with crimes related to the Capitol riot, including six Idaho residents. Among them were:

Josiah Colt, a Boise man, pleaded guilty in July to one felony count of obstruction of an official proceeding. Colt was sentenced to 15 months in prison. He was photographed sitting in then-Vice President Mike Pences seat during the riot.

Pamela Hemphill, a Boise woman, was in the Capitol during the riot. She was sentenced to two months in jail and three years of probation for one misdemeanor count of demonstrating in a Capitol building.

Duke Wilson, of Nampa, received more than four years in prison after he admitted to hitting at least one police officer with a pipe, assisting other rioters in attempting to pull a defensive shield away from a police officer, and pushing an officer to the ground.
Board of elections announces some polling changes

The Richland County Board of Election has announced the following changes in three voting locations for the Nov. 7 general election and all future elections:

Jackson A & B precincts: Moving from the Jackson Township Hall, 3761 Plymouth Springmill Road, to Awake Church, 3616 Ohio 39, Shelby.

Ontario 3A precinct: Moving from Ontario City Hall, 555 Stumbo Road, to Ontario Crossroads Church, 636 Lexington Springmill Road S., Mansfield.

Mansfield 1D precinct: Moving from Resurrection Parish, 2600 Lexington Ave., to Mansfield Alliance Church, 291 W. Cook Road, Mansfield

Mansfield 1A & Washington C precincts: Moving from Resurrection Parish, 2600 Lexington Ave., to Berean Baptist Church, 2145 Middle Bellville Road, Mansfield

Voters in these precincts will be notified by mail of their new polling location name and address. The board does not expect to make any other revisions unless an emergency situation would arise.

The deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail for the Nov. 7 election is 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 31. Absentee ballots must be postmarked by the day before the election to be counted, or they can be dropped off at the Richland County Board of Elections at 1495 W. Longview Ave. Suite 101 in Mansfield, or placed it in the locked and secure dropbox in the rear, lower-level parking area of the Longview Center.

Early in-person voting starts on Oct. 11 at 1495 W. Longview Ave., lower-level, and on Nov. 5.

For more information, contact the Richland County Board of Elections at 419-774-5530.

Patrol announces OVI checkpoint results

The Ohio Highway Patrol has completed an OVI checkpoint that occurred Sept. 9 on U.S. Route 42, near milepost 15, in Mifflin Township. The checkpoint was held from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

During the operational hours, 421 vehicles drove through the checkpoint. One vehicle was diverted and no OVI arrests were made. After the checkpoint, saturation patrols continued in the area. Twenty-seven traffic stops were initiated with four OVI arrests made. The Ohio Department of Transportation assisted with traffic control during the checkpoint.

NECIC reaffirms commitment to Mansfield's My Brother's Keeper chapter

The North End Community Improvement Collaborative (NECIC) has reaffirmed its commitment to the My Brother's Keeper (MBK) initiative. MBK, initiated by former President Barack Obama, aims to address the unique challenges facing young men and boys of color across the United States. NECIC, in partnership with other community stakeholders, has been at the forefront of this mission to empower and uplift the African-American male population in Mansfield.

On Oct. 2, NECIC will be launching its collaborative youth violence prevention program funded by Ohio Commission on Minority Health.

For more information about NECIC and its involvement in the My Brother's Keeper initiative, visit necic-ohio.org.

Upcoming meetings:

 Shelby City Council Utilities & Streets Committee, 3:30 p.m., Thursday, conference room, 5 Water St., Shelby

 Shelby City Council Finance & Personnel Committee, 3:30 p.m., Friday, conference room, 5 Water St., Shelby

Mansfield News Journal

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: New Richland County polling locations, OVI checkpoint results
Montana Sen. Jon Tester announced Wednesday that the Montana Air National Guard will receive eight C-130J (Super Hercules) heavy-lift transport aircraft -- a major equipment upgrade that will guarantee MANGs mission in Great Falls for decades to come.

The airmen and airwomen at MANG are currently equipped with eight older generation C-130Hs, an aircraft that was developed in the 1950s and has been a workhorse for the U.S. Air Force for more than 60 years.

This is good news for all sorts of reasons, Tester said Wednesday.  Keeping our country safe is my number one priority, but it also ensures MANG will have the equipment they need to continue doing the job they do as one of the best National Guard units in America.

Two Montana Air National Guard C-130's taxi to the MANG hangers at Great Falls International Airport in this file photo. Sen. Jon Tester's office announced that eight new C-130J aircraft have been allocated for Montana in a recent defense spending bill.

Were in a time, when there are all sorts of threats from our enemies, and threats from things like weather, he continued. These C-130Js set all those capabilities so that we can address any evolving threats that are out there. They are perfect for Montana. They can carry up to 45,000 pounds of cargo, they can be used to fight wildfires, they can do search and rescue operations. Its a big plane, its a big mission. They are just an amazing aircraft.

The eight C-130Js coming to Montana are part of a larger $1.8 billion military appropriation passed by Congress earlier this year. As Chairman of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee Tester pressed hard to get half of the 16 C-130Js approved for deployment assigned to the MANG base at Gore Field.

Ive got US Secretary of the Air Force, Frank Kendall, and other leadership to come visit, not only with Malmstrom, but with MANG as well to talk about the airlift assets that we have and how we can use the C-130Js, Tester said.

He said the new aircraft will not change the 120th Airlift Wings mission with the MANG to provide prompt mobilization during times of military conflict and to provide assistance during national emergencies.

What it does is, makes them much more efficient and much more dependable, said Tester. These C130 jays are absolutely the best technology. Everything is up-to-date. It doesnt change their mission, it just gives them state-of-the-art equipment thats much, much more dependable, and makes sure they are secure in their mission for decades and decades to come.

MANG originally obtained its aging C-130H aircraft back in 2011 after a base closure realignment program stripped them of their F-15 fighter wing mission. At that time there was concern that the Air Force might choose to decommission the MANG airfield closing operations there entirely. The base was ultimately converted from its F-15 fighter wing mission to become a C130 airlift wing.

We ended up getting the C-130Hs, which we were thankful for at the time, Tester said,  but these aircraft were new when I graduated from high school. Truthfully, the C-130Hs should be in a museum. Theyre really old and theyve got old technology.

Tester said that he had not been given a timeline as to when the new aircraft would be delivered, but said he would use his position in the Senate to push to get these planes as soon as possible.

The money has been appropriated, and these aircraft are being built, he said. Nothing is forever, but this is going to make sure that for decades, and decades to come the airman and airwomen at MANG will have this mission.

This article originally appeared on Great Falls Tribune: New C-130J aircraft to Montana part of Congressional spending
The Food and Drug Administration this week approved an updated booster shot for COVID-19 aimed at new variants now circulating across the country.

The variants have led to a recent uptick in cases and hospitalizations.

The updated vaccines, manufactured by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech, were designed to target the omicron variant XBB.1.5, the dominant U.S. strain this spring and summer. That variant is now a declining one in the southeast region that includes Tennessee, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

It is also expected to protect against the now-dominant Omicron variant, EG.5, according to the FDA.

Updated COVID-19 vaccine boosters are expected to soon be available in Tennessee

The booster is approved for people 12 and older and is authorized under emergency use for those six months through 11 years of age. A federal advisory panel on Tuesday recommended that everyone should get the updated shots.

When will the booster be available?

The vaccines are expected to roll out across the country this week. When will they be available in Tennessee? That's not exactly clear.

Dean Flener, spokesman for the Tennessee Department of Health, said he expects the shots to be available in this state "sometime this month." Matt Peters, spokesman for the Metro Nashville Public Health Department put in an order for booster shots on Tuesday, shortly after the federal panel approved their use.

"In the past," Peters said, "it's been delivered in a week."

CVS Pharmacies are expected to begin receiving the vaccines later this week. Walgreens is expected to start taking appointments for shots on Sept. 18.

How much will the boosters cost?

They could be potentially expensive for the uninsured, though federal assistance will make them free to most through 2024.

Pfizer and Moderna have set the cost between $120 and $130, according to recent reports. On Tuesday, Pfizer told government regulators it set the price at $120 per dose, Reuters reported. The company previously announced plans to sell the boosters between $110 and $130 per shot. Moderna will sell them at $129 per shot.

The good news is that insurance is expected to cover the cost of the shots. And federally qualified health centers are also working with state and local health agencies to provide the shots free of charge.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's "Bridge Access Program" will also provide vaccines for free for the uninsured for a limited time this fall. Free vaccines will not be available after December 2024, however, according to the CDC.

Who should get the booster shots?

The FDA has approved an updated version of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for people 12 and older and has authorized emergency use of that vaccine in children ages 6 months through 11 years. It also approved an updated version of the Moderna vaccine for people 18 years and older.

CDC officials this week recommended that every person 6 months and older get a booster shot to protect against new variants. Vaccines remain the best way to protect against COVID-related hospitalization and death, according to the CDC. Vaccines also reduce the chances of getting Long COVID, a condition that includes symptoms that persist for weeks or months after COVID-19 passes.

Those at highest risk for complications from COVID-19 include older adults, infants and toddlers, those with compromised immune systems, pregnant women, the obese, and those with certain chronic illnesses.

"(The Metro Public Health Department) recommends all those six months and older strongly consider receiving the new booster, especially those who are at high risk of developing a severe case of COVID-19," Peters said. "We encourage anyone who has questions or concerns about their own personal health and the impact the vaccine might have on it to speak to their primary care provider."

Frank Gluck is the health care reporter for The Tennessean. He can be reached at fgluck@tennessean.com. Follow him on Twitter at @FrankGluck.

Want to read more stories like this? A subscription to one of our Tennessee publications gets you unlimited access to all the latest political news, plus newsletters, a personalized mobile experience, and the ability to tap into stories, photos and videos from throughout the USA TODAY Network's daily sites.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: COVID-19: Where and when to get updated booster in TN, what we know
DHAKA, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has ushered in a new dawn for economies in dire need for infrastructural developments in Asia and beyond, Bangladeshi officials have said.

They also hailed the BRI as a mutually beneficial platform for cooperation for all the countries and regions participating in the initiative during discussions held recently in Dhaka.

Dilip Barua, general secretary of the Communist Party of Bangladesh (Marxist-Leninist), said the BRI not only operates in Bangladesh, but also reached different corners of the world, including Africa, Europe and Latin America.

Bangladeshi Planning Minister MA Mannan said that every country needs to improve the life of their farmers and workers, and infrastructural development is one of ways to do that. "With this in mind we are working on infrastructural development projects and China is supporting us by providing loans and technology."

With reference to duty-free treatment of 98 percent Bangladeshi goods to China, he said "this will help bolster our trading partnership and we are grateful to China for this opportunity."

The minister said Bangladesh wants more collaboration with China in technological area.

Rashed Khan Menon, who is the president of the Workers' Party of Bangladesh, an ally of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's ruling alliance, said that the BRI projects that have been implemented are changing the whole world in the last 10 years.

"If we look at our country, we can see that our infrastructure sector along with other sectors advanced a lot due to this. Padma Bridge is one of examples of this advancement," said Menon.

"Western countries are trying to defame the BRI by various means," Menon said, noting some people try to promote the idea that joining the BRI results in falling into debt trap. In Bangladesh, the amount of Chinese loans is far less than that of the World Bank, Japan, the European Union and the United States.

This kind of initiative can speed up development, he said, stressing that any tale could harm development.

Noting that Bangladesh is the first South Asian country to join the initiative, Charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh Yan Hualong said that China and Bangladesh have had numerous achievements in Belt and Road cooperation, setting an example for such cooperation.

The BRI, a reference to the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, was initiated by China in 2013 to build trade and infrastructure networks connecting Asia with Europe and Africa on and beyond ancient Silk Road trade routes. 
Editor's Note: For our most recent coverage of Hurricane Lee and it's predicted path, read Live Coverage: Hurricane Lee's predicted path, impact and expected damage in RI

A weakening Hurricane Lee is expected to pass "well offshore" of Southern New England Saturday, bringing rain, powerful surf and strong winds along the coast but less impact inland and to the west, according to the National Weather Service.

A tropical storm watch has been posted for coastal Rhode Island with the storm expected to affect coastal New England late Friday into Saturday.

"Hurricane Lee is forecast to pass offshore of Southern New England on Saturday but its impact will extend far from the storm's center," the National Weather Service says in its local hurricane statement. "Lee should bring rough surf and possible storm surge flooding, damaging winds and bands of heavy rain to at least coastal areas of Massachusetts and Rhode Island."

This National Hurricane Center graphic shows Lee's expected path as of 5 a.m. Thursday. By 2 a.m. The hurricane is expected to weaken to a tropical storm by the time it reaches land in Maine or Canada.

What about the tropical storm watch?

Despite the tropical storm watch, the latest local forecast projects sustained winds below tropical-storm force, saying the current peak forecast is for winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph.

A tropical storm watch is issued when a tropical cyclone with winds of 39 to 73 mph or higher poses a possible threat, generally within 48 hours, according to the weather service. It doesn't mean tropical storm conditions are definite, just possible.

"Guidance has pretty much converged on a track well offshore of (Southern New England) with a landfall anywhere from the Maine coast to Nova Scotia," the weather service said in its forecast discussion Thursday morning.

"The lingering question remains just how strong those winds will be and the extend of any potential coastal flooding," the weather service said.

Providence's hurricane barrier: It's ready for Hurricane Lee's impact. Here's how it will work.

Cape Cod, Islands could get 2 to 4 inches of rain

Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket are expected to get the most rain and strongest wind, according to the weather service. Cape Cod and the islands could get 2 to 4 inches of rain, while eastern Massachusetts could see 1 to 2 inches. For Providence, the weather service is forecasting just a 30% chance of rain overnight Friday and a 40% chance Saturday.

The primary hazards for Southern New England are damaging wind, powerful surf and possible flooding.

"Winds will increase on Friday and remain gusty through Saturday night," the weather service says. "Tropical storm force winds are possible late Friday night and Saturday near the coast, where downed branches or trees are possible since trees are fully leafed and root systems may be weakened from saturated soils. These winds and high seas will also be dangerous for mariners."

This National Hurricane graphic shows the probability of tropical-storm-force winds. The outer part of Cape Cod has the greatest chance with the likelihood diminishing to the west.

Weather service warns of storm surge, rip currents

"Ocean beaches will experience dangerous rip currents and significant beach erosion through the weekend. Viewing the surf from jetties, piers or close to the shoreline will be extremely dangerous," the weather service says.

"Bands of heavy rainfall may result in flash flooding Friday night and Saturday, mainly near the coast. Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are possible in a short period of time."

The weather service is also warning of life-threatening storm surge along Cape Cod Bay and the north side of Nantucket.

More: Here's what you should do to prepare if a hurricane hits RI

"If you live in a place particularly vulnerable to flooding, such as near the ocean, in a low-lying or poor drainage area, or near an already swollen river, plan to move to safe shelter on higher ground," the weather service says.

As of 5 a.m., the storm was about 840 miles south of Nantucket moving north at 9 mph. It has weakened to a Category 2 storm, with sustained winds of 100 mph. By 2 p.m. Saturday, it should weaken to a tropical storm, according to a National Hurricane Center graphic.

Preparing for Hurricane Lee: Here's what you should do to prepare if a hurricane hits RI

Preparing for Hurricane Lee

As the storm approaches, Gov. Dan McKee, the U.S. Coast Guard and the American Red Cross say they are monitoring forecasts and preparing for the potential impact.

McKee said Wednesday that he and the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency "will convene state agencies directors on Thursday to conduct a tabletop exercise dedicated solely to hurricane response."

The American Red Cross says it's "pre-positioning disaster teams and supplies throughout Massachusetts and other parts of New England to be ready to support impacted communities."

The U.S. Coast Guard is taking special precautions in ports. It said, "We urge all residents and mariners in the region to take precautions to ensure safety."

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: RI Weather: Wind, rain from Hurricane Lee expected Friday into Saturday
A lawsuit filed in against UW Medicine accuses the hospital of losing a patient's bladder tumor before they were able to test for cancer.

Jeremy Morton-Maxson was already dealing with news no one wanted to hear. At the age of just 39, he had gone to doctors after experiencing painful urinary issues, which raised red flags for the carpenter who comes from a family with a history of bladder cancer.

After waiting upward of five months to get in to see a specialist at UW Medicine in Seattle, Morton-Maxson was informed in August of 2022 that a tumor was present on his bladder and that it was "likely cancer," according to a lawsuit filed this summer and originally reported on by the Seattle Times.

Morton-Maxson was urged to have prompt surgery to remove the mass so that the hospitals pathology department could determine if it was malignant, said a press release provided by Morton-Maxson's attorney, Austin Neff. He did just that two days later at UW Medicine Northwest.

It was then the worst of all waiting games began. Morton-Maxson waited weeks for the call from his doctor, eventually resorting to sending daily messages and making frequent phone calls to the clinic, becoming increasingly panicked at the lack of response.

When I didnt hear back, I began calling the urologist, but as anyone knows, gone are the days when you could actually reach anyone on the phone, Morton-Maxson said in the press release. I began calling repeatedly and sending notes on the physician groups electronic medical records portal, MyChart, figuring if I made a big enough pest of myself, they would call me back.

It was finally in early September that he got the call he had been dreading, only to receive news of an entirely unexpected complication: UW Medicine had lost the tumor before it could be analyzed, something they formally admitted in later court documents.

If the tumor was malignant, a pathology report would have told us how aggressive the cancer is and help his care team make critical decisions, including what targeted therapies would have served Jeremy best," Neff in a statement. "Now, because of UWs actions, Jeremy is left with nothing but bad options.

Clinic resumes abortions in Wisconsin: Planned Parenthood Wisconsin resumes abortion procedures after new court ruling

More questions than answers

Indeed, Morton-Maxson was left with more questions than answers after the incident. Options for treatment are now less precise and up the air, causing stress that Morton-Maxson said has colored every part of his life.

He was offered two courses of action following the news: Undergo preventative chemotherapy in case the tumor was malignant after all, or have invasive diagnostic procedures done every 60 days to reexamine the inside of his bladder, said court documents.

Morton-Maxson, who is very physically active not only by merit of his job but in his free time as well, did not find either course of action "acceptable," especially considering the doctor told him post-surgery that she believed she had "gotten all" of the tumor, meaning intervention in the form of intense chemotherapy may not even be necessary.

For Morton-Maxson, not knowing is the worst outcome of this saga so far.

Anyone who has battled cancer knows the uncertainty surrounding the disease is crippling, and in my case, the uncertainty is amplified by the hospitals mistake, Morton-Maxson said in a statement. I am a young man, and I wake up every morning with this hanging over my head."

While UW Medicine did admit to losing the tumor, they have denied other allegations made in the suit, according to court documents, including injury caused to Morton-Maxson.

In a statement emailed to USA TODAY, UW Medicine Spokeswoman Susan Gregg said the hospital was unable comment on specifics regarding pending litigation, but said, "UW Medicine cares deeply about our patients and takes concerns seriously. Our dedicated healthcare professionals work diligently to provide quality care. To support this goal, we examine and enhance processes as a part of our quality improvement program when needed."

Gregg did not respond to questions asking if an investigation was being conducted by the hospital.

Family sues for autopsy photos online: Georgia family of baby decapitated during birth claims doctor posted images online

Lawsuit seeks accountability

The deciding factor for Morton-Maxson in filing the suit, according to court documents and a press statement, was administration's apparent unwillingness to address the issue.

Had UW owned up to their error and apologized, we would not be here today," Morton-Maxson said.

Neff concurred, telling USA TODAY in an email, "A formal apology and a full explanation from hospital administration would have gone a long way. Unfortunately, UW chose silence. We look forward to full and final justice for Jeremy."

As for Morton-Maxson, he chose to forgo chemo and stick with a diagnostic procedure performed every 60 days. With the lawsuit, he is seeking monetary damages from UW to compensate for the anguish caused.

I understand that we all make mistakes  I know how understaffed, overworked and underpaid hospital nurses and technicians are, which I am sure played into this, Morton-Maxson said in a statement. But in those instances, you need to hold up your hand and say, I messed up and I am sorry. No one from UW has ever offered me an apology.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Washington man's tumor lost before cancer test done; hospital sued
Illinois is among the 15 most expensive states to live in the U.S., according to a ranking from online pharmacy store Now Patient. High prices for gas and gym memberships contributed to the Land of Lincolns overall ranking in the US Costly States comparison.

The Now Patient ranking was based on metrics such as gas prices, cost of groceries, funeral costs, a cost of living score, health insurance prices and the cost of gym memberships.

Sources included World Population Review, auto club AAA, Zippia, the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, Value Penguin and Statista, according to Now Patient.

The category in which Illinois ranked the highest was for gasoline costs  the Land of Lincoln has a higher motor fuel tax than most other states, at $0.454 per gallon. (The tax has regularly increased since at least 2017). For comparison, Missouris motor fuel tax is $0.245 per gallon, while Indianas is $0.34 per gallon.

Despite Illinois high ranking for expensive gas, fuel costs were down 19.9% across the country as of July from the previous year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The national average price of gas hit some bumps last week after declining early on  #GasPrice trends on the blog: https://t.co/ip6KwZeFVv pic.twitter.com/nOw5sUD79E  GasBuddy (@GasBuddy) September 11, 2023

Illinois also stood out for its gym membership costs. The average monthly bill is $30.60 in Illinois, Now Patient reports, compared to $30.10 in Missouri.

Cost of living in Illinois

Heres how Illinois performed in Now Patients ranking:

Funeral costs: 29th place, $7,419 average funeral cost

Gas prices: 8th place, $3.854 per gallon

Cost of groceries: 31st place, $327.31 average grocery cost per month per person

Cost of living score (includes housing costs, utilities and more): 40th place, score of 90.8

Health insurance: 20th place, $561

Gym membership: 8th place, $30.60

Overall place: 15th

Another major expense for many Illinois families, not included in the Now Patient analysis, is child care. Illinois families spend an average of more than $13,000 each year for center-based infant care, more than 50% of the typical income for a single parent, according to nonprofit organization Child Care Aware.

Parents with qualified incomes can receive a larger earned income tax credit depending on how many children they have, and some state legislators are aiming to implement a permanent child tax credit in Illinois. Despite the high sticker price for child care in Illinois, there are avenues for financial assistance for qualifying individuals, including the Child Care Assistance Program, Illinois Head Start and Preschool for All.

A 2022 ranking from financial website WalletHub named the Land of Lincoln the fifth best state in the country for millennials to live, citing affordability as a key factor. But the states minimum wage is not enough to support a single person with no children in St. Clair County, according to the Massachusetts Institute of Technologys living wage calculator.

Illinois minimum wage is $13 per hour for non-tipped workers and $7.80 an hour for tipped workers. The state minimum wages will increase to $14 and $8.40 respectively Jan. 1, 2024, but will still fall short of the $16.50 MIT says a single person without children needs to afford basic necessities.

Cost of living in Missouri

Heres how Missouri performed in Now Patients ranking:

Funeral costs: 46th place, $6,885

Gas prices: 42nd place, $3.235 per gallon

Cost of groceries: 39th place, $312.63

Cost of living score: 47th place, score of 88.4

Health insurance: 11th place, $626

Gym membership: 16th place, $30.10

Overall place: 42nd
WASHINGTON - Attorneys for Donald Trump filed a last-ditch legal complaint Thursday against a New York judge, seeking to derail a fast-approaching civil trial that could gut the former president's business empire.

The Trump legal team asked a state appeals court to step in against Justice Arthur F. Engoron, claiming he failed to follow rulings that narrowed the allegations at the heart of the trial scheduled to begin on Oct. 2.

"Its a rare move of aggression - particularly this close to trial," reported The Daily Beast, which first reported the filing.

A year ago, New York State Attorney General Letitia James sued Trump and members of his family, accusing them of enriching themselves through financial fraud. If successful, the case could effectively shutter The Trump Organization.

James has also accused Trump of making frivolous legal motions in pre-trial maneuvering. She has asked the state Supreme Court to sanction the former president and others involved in the family business.

Donald Trump

Trump, who faces up to seven criminal and civil trials as he pursues the presidency again in 2024, claims that James and others are playing politics.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump attorneys seek to derail NY civil case by protesting the judge
Elon Musk's friends held an intervention to stop him starting a rocket company, according to a new book.

His college friend made him watch videos of rockets blowing up and warned him he'd lose his money.

Musk ultimately created SpaceX, with the goal of colonizing Mars.

Elon Musk's friends staged an intervention when he told them he wanted to start his own rocket company in the early 2000s, according to a new biography of the billionaire.

"When Musk decided he wanted to start his own rocket company, his friends did what true friends do in such a situation: they staged an intervention," journalist Walter Isaacson wrote in the book, titled "Elon Musk."

Adeo Ressi, Musk's friend and former housemate at the University of Pennsylvania, made a highlight reel showing videos of rockets blowing up, "and he corralled friends to fly to Los Angeles, where they gathered with Musk to talk him out of it," Isaacson wrote.

"They made me watch a reel of rockets exploding, because they wanted to convince me that I would lose all my money," Musk told Isaacson. But Musk had already thought this through and had decided that someone would have to invest money if they wanted any progress in space exploration.

After he was ousted from PayPal in 2000, Musk shifted his focus to exploring Mars, with the lofty goal of colonizing the red planet. He attended meetings of the Mars Society and moved to Los Angeles, which was the home of aerospace companies including Lockheed and Boeing.

"Do we want to tell our children that going to the moon is the best we did, and then we gave up?" Musk asked Isaacson. He also thought that having a colony on Mars would ensure the survival of humanity if anything were to happen on Earth, and wanted to rekindle what he believes was a lost the spirit of adventure.

"To have a base on Mars would be incredibly difficult, and people will probably die along the way, just as happened in the settling of the United States," he told Isaacson. "But it will be incredibly inspiring, and we must have inspiring things in the world  that's what can get us up in the morning."

He gathered rocket engineers for meetings and devised a plan to send a greenhouse to Mars, hoping this would inspire public interest in a mission to Mars.

So Musk headed to Russia twice with the aim of buying rockets. But after being taunted by the unnamed Russian businesspeople he met there, Musk decided the best way to get to Mars would be by privately producing his own rockets, allowing him to keep costs down and improve the technology. He started compiling figures on how much a rocket would cost to build on his flight back from Russia in early 2002.

"I wanted to hold out hope that humans could be a space-faring civilization and be out there among the stars," he told Isaacson. "And there was no chance of that unless a new company was started to create revolutionary rockets."

Musk ended up setting up Space Exploration Technologies, which later became SpaceX, later that year. More than two decades later, Musk is still aiming to colonize Mars, though he keeps pushing back the date that he expects the first humans to reach Mars. He's said that he wants a million people to live on the red planet by 2050.

SpaceX is a NASA contractor. It also operates Starlink, a satellite internet system. Musk currently serves as CEO and chair, though Gwynne Shotwell is its president and COO.

Read the original article on Business Insider
According to a new LinkedIn report, nearly half of the employees surveyed say they are worried they don't know enough about AI.

Nearly 40% said they pretend they know more about AI to seem 'in the know' in front of colleagues.

LinkedIn surveyed 30,000 employees based in 18 countries in August.

Employees are increasingly getting "AI Anxious"  they're worried about falling behind on AI at work and are even pretending to seem "in the know" in front of colleagues.

That's according to LinkedIn's survey of almost 30,000 employees based in 18 countries  including the US, UK, and Canada  conducted in August. The survey results were published on Wednesday.

Nearly half, or 49% of the employees surveyed, said they are worried they should know more about AI than they do.

Just under 40% of the respondents said they felt overwhelmed about not being able to keep up with AI developments  and 56% said they did not know how to use AI at work.

But they also didn't want to appear to be confused about the tech.

Nearly 40% of those surveyed admitted to pretending they know more about AI to seem "in the know" in front of colleagues, per the report.

As tools like ChatGPT seep into the workplace, workers have been worried about being replaced by AI.

A March study by Goldman Sachs found that over 300 million jobs could be disrupted by AI globally  as generative AI could replace up to a quarter of work done by employees.

These impacts could be unequal. Admin workers and women face the greatest risk of being replaced by AI, according to a study published by the International Labour Organization in August.

More recently, however, concern has turned toward whether workers can adapt quickly enough to AI skills.

The number of job postings that mention GPT or ChatGPT has increased over twentyfold since the chatbot was released last year  and AI engineers are the third fastest-growing vacancy on the platform  according to a separate LinkedIn report published in August.

And some employees have even been secretly using AI tools to get ahead in the workplace. A January survey by professional networking platform Fishbowl found that 70% of 11,700 users surveyed reported using ChatGPT without telling their bosses.

And despite employees' increasing concern over the tech, the AI hype could itself be losing momentum.

Traffic to ChatGPT's website has fallen for the third straight month in a row in August, according to data from web analytics company Similarweb.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Newspaper coverage of Taylor Swift and Beyonce is about to get even bigger, with Gannett this week posting job listings for dedicated reporters for each of the artists at USA Today and The Tennessean. The announcements by the largest newspaper chain in the United States have struck a false note with some in the media.

The job description for Taylor Swift Reporter says Gannett is seeking an experienced, video-forward journalist to capture the music and cultural impact of Taylor Swift who will identify why the pop stars influence only expands, what her fanbase stands for in pop culture, and the effect she has across the music and business worlds.

More from Deadline

The one for Beyonce Knowles-Carter Reporter says the successful candidate will chronicle the music, fashion, cultural and economic influence of the international superstar and icon, capturing her effect not only on the many industries in which she operates, but also on society and identifying why the stars influence continues to expand and the effect it is having on the music and business worlds.

Both jobs require the ability to travel internationally, with a salary range of $21.63 to $50.87 per hour.

Each of the artists has enjoyed record-breaking tours this year as their reach and cultural impact continues to grow, but newsrooms have also continued to shrink across the U.S., prompting mixed reaction to the job postings. Some journalists pointed out that Gannett cut its workforce last year with 400 employees laid off in August 2022, and a further 6% of the companys U.S. media division in December.

I know everyone is dunking on this, but Im going to add on.



Last year @Gannett laid off at least 600 ppl and stopped filling 400 jobs. People had to wait almost 2 months for their severance, which btw was capped at 26 years.



Local this, local that. Where are the priorities? https://t.co/hHDZdFSu6P  Kati Kokal (@katikokal) September 13, 2023

A reporter for Chalkbeat Tennessee, wrote on X (fka Twitter), Nashville is getting a Taylor Swift reporter. Memphis is still without an investigative reporter.

Nashville is getting a Taylor Swift reporter



Memphis is still without an investigative reporter https://t.co/lmamf8Vrjq  Laura D. Testino  (@ldtestino) September 12, 2023

Kristin Roberts, Gannetts Chief Content Officer, said in a statement to CBS News that USA Today Network is committed to serving our communities across America with journalism that is essential to millions of readers, viewers and listeners. And that includes providing our audience with content they crave. She also said that Gannett has hired 225 journalists since March and now has more than 100 open posts, per The New York Times.

Robert Thompson, the director of the Bleier Center for Television and Popular Culture at Syracuse University, told the NYT that hiring for such specific beats is not as absurd as it looks at first glance. Covering an artist like Swift is a perfectly sound activity for a journalist to be doing.

LA Times culture columnist Suzy Exposito said she understood the reasoning for the jobs:

I understand the reasoning behind hiring dedicated Taylor and Beyonce reporters. I spent years as an unofficial Bad Bunny beat reporter, trying to balance his surprise releases with other music coverage took a LOT out of me   Suzy Exposito (@HexPositive) September 13, 2023

Swift recently became the first female artist to hit 100 million monthly listeners on Spotify, while her record-smashing Eras Tour has been made into a concert film that is headed for a $70M+ domestic opening weekend when it bows October 13.

Beyonce earlier this year broke the career Grammy Awards record and is now the most-awarded artist of all time with 32 wins. In July, her Renaissance World Tour had the biggest one-month gross in boxscore history, according to Billboard.

Best of Deadline

Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.
Environmental watchdog Sound Rivers is suing a Durham home builder, alleging the builder is failing to follow sediment control plans resulting in significant pollution in nearby waterways.

Mungo Homes, a subsidiary of Clayton Properties Group, is building the 616-lot Sweetbrier development across 216 acres in Southeast Durham. The areas Lick Creek watershed has received significant attention from developers in recent years and from nearby residents worried about whether the area and its environmental resources can handle the clearcutting and mass grading necessary to build thousands of new homes.

Sound Rivers alleges the developers failure to follow North Carolinas sediment control rules and its own plan describing how it would keep dirt on the site have resulted in significant levels of pollution into nearby Martin Branch, which then flows into Lick Creek before entering Falls Lake.

North Carolinas water turbidity standard is 50 nephelometric turbidity units, with anything higher than that representing a violation. Samantha Krop, Sound Rivers Neuse riverkeeper, has sampled Martin Branch on Sweetbriers southeastern border on 16 occasions, with each coming in above the turbidity standard.

Ive not documented a more significant and ongoing sediment pollution issue in the entire Neuse watershed, from tip to tip, Krop told The News & Observer.

Sound Rivers is asking the court to find the developer in violation of the Clean Water Act, require it to remediate waterways that have been damaged by sediment flowing off of the site and fine it $64,618 for each day it has been in violation of its permit.

Clayton Properties Group did not respond to a pair of emailed requests or a voicemail left at Mungo Homes Apex office requesting comment for this story.

Issues during inspection

Sediment in North Carolina is controlled by a general permit which requires developers to create and abide by an erosion and sediment control plan, including devices that keep dirt stirred up by development out of waterways.

Sound Rivers alleges that Clayton failed to take steps like planting grass to keep dirt from washing into nearby waterways, retaining a buffer or maintaining the basins its own approved sediment plan calls for.

To comply with the state and federal permits under the Clean Water Act, Clayton has to control sediment and also comply with state water quality standards. We have outlined ultimately that they have failed to do so in their development of this site and their development has resulted in sediment pollution, Irena Como, a Southern Environmental Law Center attorney representing Sound Rivers, told The News & Observer.

Inspectors identified sediment control deficiencies on several occasions. In one a third-party conducted for the developer and at least six more in which Durham County inspectors found problems with sediment control.

During one Feb. 17 inspection, a Durham County erosion control supervisor found 68 problems with Sweetbriers erosion and sediment control measures, resulting in his warning the developer that he should issue a notice of violation. No notice was issued.

Claytons failure to comply with its erosion and sediment control plan cause(d) sediment to be deposited into Martin Branch, with sedimentation and other impacts on human health or the environment extending downstream into Lick Creek and Falls Lake, the suit states.

Aerial photographs included in the suit show sediment building up around the area where Lick Creek flows into Falls Lake.

Sediment pollution can harm fish and other wildlife living in streams other waterways, creates conditions that are more favorable for algal blooms and can result in higher levels of bacteria in the water column.

Its an issue for aquatic species in every single and its a major issue for human communities and health, Krop said.

Samples from Lick Creek

Krop started sampling around Lick Creek last October after residents raised concerns about nearby development sending sediment into the waterway. It quickly became clear that Sweetbrier was routinely sending excessive amounts of sediment into Martin Branch and then into Lick Creek, Krop said.

That included several samples that topped 1,100 NTUs  the highest a sampling device Sound Rivers uses can record. Meanwhile, samples at Rocky Branch, a nearby Lick Creek tributary that doesnt have significant development, repeatedly came in either near or below the states turbidity standard.

On Aug. 31, Sound Rivers used a different turbidity measurement that is similar but not comparable to NTU and found levels in Martin Branch that were about eighty times higher than those in Rocky Branch.

The lawsuit also alleges that Clayton failed to fulfill self-reporting obligations under the general permit, in which it must inspect regularly and after rainstorms and report sediment that is flowing into the waterway to DEQ.

Had those reports been made to DEQ, Krop said, they would have resulted in steps to either repair the existing sediment control measures or add new ones.

They would have been self-reporting when they noticed the issues Ive been documenting for this last year and taking meaningful actions to address those issues. So if they are following their permit then they wouldnt be polluting the creek, Krop said.

This story was produced with financial support from the Hartfield Foundation and the 1Earth Fund, in partnership with Journalism Funding Partners, as part of an independent journalism fellowship program. The N&O maintains full editorial control of the work.
BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of National Defense on Thursday urged the United States to stop all forms of military ties with Taiwan.

Spokesperson Tan Kefei made the remarks when commenting on information about Taiwan's recent military interaction with the United States, including a reported plan to buy military equipment from the United States.

"We firmly oppose the United States conducting any form of official contact with China's Taiwan region and selling weapons to the island," Tan said. 
While it was a small and relatively new organization when Deb Monahan joined the Thames Valley Council for Community Action, she departs TVCCA having grown it into an important non-profit for the community.

After 50 years at the community action agency, Monahan will retire. She led the organization as CEO for 26 years. Her last official day will be on Nov. 10.

TVCCA has been an integral part of my life for most of my life, so its surreal, but (retirement) is getting real, she said.

Her retirement will be celebrated with a fundraiser dinner at The Spa at Norwich Inn on Sept. 28 at 5:30. The event costs $55 per person and the money will go toward the Client Support Fund, which lets TVCCA assist people when there isnt a specific program to cover their need. For example, it may pay when a client needs money for a car repair inn order to get back to work or needs help paying for medication, Monahan said.

It's unrestricted dollars that can help families with their unique needs, she said.

TVCCA CEO Deb Monahan will retire on Nov. 10, three weeks after the new CEO, Josh Kelly, joins the organization.

Community service was something Monahan always wanted to do. After graduating from the University of Connecticut in 1973 with a degree in early childhood and family relations, she worked for an employment agency but didnt like the job.

She was approached by TVCCA to work in case aid for its early childhood program, and she joined. In the 1970s, TVCCA didnt have computers, and did its business by phone calls, paperwork, and face-to-face meetings, Monahan said.

Her first role involved recruiting children for childcare programs and helping families with transportation and aid, she said.

Things were at a slower pace, so if something took a week, people expected it, she said.

It was also a smaller agency in a smaller space. Monahan was based out of an office in an United Community & Family Services, then called United Workers, building overlooking the Norwichtown Green. Monahan helped with the Head Start preschool locations at the Norwichtown office, a location on Pearl Street, and at the long-since demolished SHYMA Club in Taftville.

Elderly or have physical limitations: Miss riding a bike? Here's a free way to experience it in Norwich. You don't have to pedal

Over the years, Monahan was the first WIC Program Director for the area in conjunction with UCFS and Backus Hospital and held many roles in management. In 1997, she was an interim director when her predecessor was ill, and officially became director, now CEO, in 1998, she said.

While Monahan said TVCCA is a team effort, some of the organizations biggest accomplishments during her time as CEO include expanding the range of services, expanding childcare facilities, getting a commissary, and getting a great deal on renting the Norwich office from the state for $8 a square foot, heat and utilities included. All of this helps stabilize services, and provides for the programs, she said.

We dont have to rely on someone else fixing our buildings or making sure our buildings have the equipment we need to do our services, she said.

The Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments has worked with TVCCA plenty over the years. Monahan has served as co-chair of the council's human services committee, and a part of the Southeastern Connecticut Housing Alliance and regularly attends the council's meetings, encouraging the towns to send their residents to TVCCA for fuel assistance and other needs people may have, Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments Executive Director Amanda Kennedy said.

Everyone respects her so much and is willing to give her time because she does the same for them, she said.

Labor by the numbers: The top paying jobs in CT and in the greater Norwich area

As for United Community & Family Services, Monahan has been a partners partner in UCFS and TVCCAs work together, and while working with other organizations, fostering a culture of collaboration between nonprofits in the area, President and CEO Jennifer Granger said.

She really understands the unique role of each of our organizations, and she strived to make each of our missions come to fruition, in the service of the people in this community, not just her own, she said.

In retirement, Monahan will miss all the people shes worked with while trying to make the community a better place, she said.

Monahan will work with her replacement, Josh Kelly, for a few weeks as she gets to teach him the ins and outs of the organization. When she does leave, Monahan will spend more time with family, including her husband and her four grandchildren.

Monahan plans to stay involved in the community. She will remain on community boards, where she isn't representing TVCCA, like the Institutional Review Board for Eastern Connecticut State University, she said.

She may still help out TVCCA by advising Kelly from time to time, and perhaps driving for the Meals on Wheels program.

Ill be ok. Ill figure out that adventure, she said.

This article originally appeared on The Bulletin: Non-profit TVCCA's long time CEO Deb Monahan to retire in November
Thirty-three artifacts, including statues and artwork, belonging to the Khmer people of the Kingdom of Cambodia will be returned to their native land, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York announced Tuesday.

The family of the late George Lindemann, a billionaire businessman who was CEO of natural gas pipeline company Southern Union, voluntarily agreed to return the artifacts to Cambodia on Monday, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Lindemann died in 2018.

Cambodian officials plan to host a ceremony celebrating the return of the cultural relics.

"For decades, Cambodia suffered at the hands of unscrupulous art dealers and looters who trafficked cultural treasures to the American art market," said Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, in a statement.

Williams said the historic agreement will set the framework for returning items of cultural significance back to Cambodia under the "U.S.-Cambodia Cultural Property Agreement," which was first signed in 2003 and renewed in late August.

It pleases the Cambodian government that the Lindemann family, in possession of these national treasures, knowing they were wrongfully possessed, have duly and voluntarily returned them to their rightful owners," Phoeurng Sackona, Cambodias minister of culture and fine arts, told The New York Times.

The Lindemann family said in a statement to the Times that "having purchased these items from dealers that we assumed were reputable, we were saddened to learn how they made their way to the market in the United States."

HOW THE DE KOONING ENDED UP IN ARIZONA: This is the saga of Arizona's famous stolen Willem de Kooning painting

Expansive collection

The collection included 10th- and 12th-century statues and artworks stolen from Angkor Wat and Koh Ker, which are major religious and archeological sites in Cambodia. One statue depicting Dhrishtadyumna, a hero from the Sanskrit epic Mahabharata, was stolen from the Khmer kingdoms ancient capital Prasat Chen.

Other antiques include a 10th-century sculpture of Ardhanarishvara  a deity who is half-male and half-female  a kneeling figure taken from Banteay Srei, an ancient temple in Cambodia, and six heads of devas and asuras, or angels and demons, that aligned the gates to the city Angkor Thom.

The case is being handled by the Justice Department's Money Laundering and Transnational Criminal Enterprises Unit.

Previous cases

This is not the first such case filed in the Southern District of New York. In 2014, a sculpture of Duryodhana, the main antagonist in the Mahabharata, was recovered after it was looted from Cambodia. Last year, officials returned a sculpture depicting the god of war Skanda on a peacock.

Most of these relics were stolen from the same temple site.

Since 2012, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York and the Department of Homeland Security have identified and returned 65 stolen and trafficked Cambodian antiquities owned by various individuals and groups in the U.S.

NEWS DEVELOPING INTO THE EVENING: For an update later tonight, sign up for the Evening Briefing.

British art dealer Douglas Latchford was indicted in the Southern District of New York in 2019 for wire fraud conspiracy and other crimes related to selling stolen Cambodian antiques on the international market. The indictment was dismissed when Latchford died in 2020.

Lindemann, a known collector of artifacts, was featured in a 2008 article with luxury magazine "Architectural Digest," according to The Washington Post. Photos showed more than a dozen Khmer statues displayed in a Florida mansion.

Art experts and archeologists working with the Cambodian Ministry of Culture told the Post in 2021 that six of those artworks were "definitely looted."

Prosecutors said Latchford was a key middleman in transactions between temple looters and wealthy collectors. U.S. officials said the recent agreement with the Lindemanns does not indicate that the family violated federal laws.

This article originally appeared on Aberdeen News: Stolen Cambodian artworks: Lindemann family agrees to return items
An FBI agent involved in the Hunter Biden probe said the prosecutor leading it sought, but was denied, help from a key fellow U.S. attorney.

The lack of cooperation did not prevent charges from being brought against the presidents son, the agent told congressional investigators. But it did make the prosecutors job harder.

The testimony, delivered behind closed doors, is consistent in part with an IRS whistleblowers description of the probe and comes at a critical juncture in the investigations into the Biden family. Republicans have pointed to that whistleblower description when making the case for opening an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden .

But the agent also said she did not recall another key part of the whistleblowers allegations that Republicans have focused on: that David Weiss, the Trump-appointed U.S. attorney for Delaware, said he didn't have final authority to charge the presidents son.

During her testimony to Congress, the agent indicated that the U.S. attorney in California  appointed by President Joe Biden  declined to partner with Weiss in pursuing tax charges against the presidents son.



I remember learning at some point in the investigation that Mr. Weiss would have to go through his other processes because the U.S. attorneys offices had, I guess, in that sense, using that terminology, wasnt going to partner, she said.

Asked if she recalled learning that Martin Estrada, the U.S. attorney for the Central District of California, specifically decided not to bring tax charges against Hunter Biden, the agent replied: I understand that, yes, that a decision had been made that the Central District of California wasnt going to, I guess  my understanding is that they werent going to bring the case on their own.

She added that the lack of cooperation would not have ultimately prevented Weiss from bringing tax charges against Hunter Biden.

He would still have the authority to do so, she said. Its just that now he would do it differently.

The agents testimony was made as part of a voluntary interview she gave to the House Judiciary Committee. POLITICO reviewed the transcript of that interview. We are not publishing the agents name because a person familiar with the Congressional probe said she handles sensitive work for the FBI. The agent sat for the interview with the judiciary committee with the Justice Departments blessing, and was accompanied by lawyers for the Department and the FBI.

The testimony adds yet another element in a legal and political saga that has spanned years and sparked House Speaker Kevin McCarthy's announcement of an impeachment inquiry of the president.

Hill Republicans investigating the Biden family have been particularly focused on the extent to which Weiss faced headwinds from other Justice Department officials.

Gary Shapley, an IRS official-turned-whistleblower, has said investigators scrutinizing the first son faced unusual hurdles. He testified that U.S. attorneys in California and D.C. refused to partner with Weiss. He has also said that Weiss said in a meeting on Oct. 7, 2022 that he was not the deciding person in the probe.

Shapleys contemporaneous notes detail that last comment. But two other meeting participants have told lawmakers they do not remember it. Both Weiss and Attorney General Merrick Garland have long defended the integrity of the probe and Weiss authority to bring charges where he deemed necessary.



Weiss team spent years investigating Hunter Bidens taxes and concluded they had enough evidence to charge him with willfully failing to pay them. But Biden lived in California and D.C. in the years relevant to criminal charges, which meant Weiss would have had to make the case in those jurisdictions  not in Delaware, where he is the top prosecutor. To bring charges in those jurisdictions, he would either have to persuade the U.S. attorneys in those districts to partner with him, or he would have had to formally receive special authority from the attorney general.

Garland has long said he would grant Weiss any authority he believed he needed to handle the prosecution. And, indeed, a month ago, the attorney general designated Weiss with special counsel status, formally allowing him to bring charges anywhere in the country.

The FBI agent said that in the Oct. 7 meeting, Weiss discussed the different process he would need to follow if he wanted to bring tax charges. The agent said that it would have been easier for Weiss to bring tax charges in California if Estrada had agreed to partner with him.

[W]here I think normally if a U.S. attorneys office partners, it makes it easier when an outside district has to come in and they havent worked in that district before, she said. But, since that was appearing not to happen in this situation, he would still proceed with doing it and just would do it without that U.S. attorney.

The agent emphasized that the lack of cooperation didnt hamstring Weiss.

My understanding is, whenever they decided what charges were going to be brought, they could pursue those charges wherever they needed to, she said.

Even if [Washington, D.C., U.S. Attorney Matthew] Graves didnt want to partner? the staffer asked.

Yes, she replied.

Ciaran McEvoy, a spokesperson for the U.S. attorney's office in the Central District of California, told POLITICO that Weiss did not need approval from this office or the U.S. attorney to bring charges in this district. McEvoy noted that Garland had given Weiss full authority to bring charges in any jurisdiction he deemed appropriate.

A spokesperson for the Justice Department declined to comment.

While Republicans have argued that political considerations have hampered the investigation into Hunter Biden, the lawyers representing the presidents son have made the case that only political pressure from the right could explain why the Department of Justice would charge him with failing to pay his taxes. They have stressed that an ordinary taxpayer without a famous last name would have been able to settle the allegations without facing criminal charges. Bidens lawyers also have noted that the first son paid the taxes he owed, along with penalties and interest, and that criminal charges under such circumstances are very unusual.

The FBI agent who testified to Congress also fielded questions about other elements of the Oct. 7 meeting. She said she did not recall Weiss saying in that meeting that he was not the deciding person when it came to bringing charges in the case. And she said she thought she would have remembered a comment like that if it were made.

She also said that both before and after the meeting, she believed Weiss had the authority to bring charges anywhere he wanted to.

An FBI spokesperson declined to comment for this story.

Reached for comment, a spokesperson for Hunter Bidens legal team noted that his attorney Abbe Lowell offered seven months ago to meet with Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.), the chair of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability who is helping helm the impeachment inquiry. The offer still stands, according to a letter Lowell sent today to Comer.

Empower Oversight, a nonprofit helping Shapley that is helmed by former aides to Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), said in a statement that Weiss failed to do his job properly.

DOJ can play semantic games all it wants but nothing changes the fact that Delaware prosecutors presented the Hunter Biden case to Biden-appointed US Attorneys in D.C. and California  both of whom declined to let Weiss bring charges there, the statement said. Now even if Weiss uses his new Special Counsel authority to charge in California, he already allowed the statute of limitations to expire in D.C., which means Hunter Biden will never be required to pay the taxes on the Burisma income he hid from his accountants in 2014.

Weiss did not proceed with alacrity after the Oct. 7 meeting. Instead, in May the following year, his team began negotiating a deal with Hunter Bidens lawyers to resolve the investigation without a guilty plea.

Then, late in the month, Shapley went public with his allegations about the management of the probe. Afterward, Weiss team made clear to Bidens lawyers that their client would need to enter a guilty plea to resolve the charges. The two sides settled on a deal where Biden would plead guilty to two misdemeanor counts of willfully failing to pay his taxes, while also entering a pretrial diversion agreement intended to result in the withdrawal of unrelated gun charges without jail time.

After a tumultuous hearing, the deal fell apart.

Bidens lawyers argue that the pretrial diversion component  which includes robust protection from future criminal charges  is already in place, noting that Weiss himself signed it. But the Justice Department disagrees. Prosecutors have said in court filings that they plan to seek an indictment of Biden for gun charges later this month, and that they will also probably charge him with tax crimes in California or Washington, D.C.
Gov. Kevin Stitt has called for a special session of the Oklahoma Legislature to cut state income tax

Gov. Kevin Stitt announced Monday he is calling a special session of the Oklahoma Legislature to discuss tax cuts, budget transparency and a special "trigger law" apparently intended to ensure that if courts rule Native Americans do not have to pay state income taxes "then no Oklahoman will have to pay the tax."

The governor said the special session would begin Oct. 3 to act only on his three proposals.

Stitt recently has intensified his criticism of the 2020 McGirt decision in which the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the six Native American reservations in eastern Oklahoma had never been disestablished. The ruling specifically involved criminal jurisdiction over Native Americans on those reservations, but lawsuits were subsequently filed in federal court by Native citizens arguing the state does not have the right to tax their income.

More: Amid legal uncertainty, Oklahoma's governor ramps up rhetoric against tribal governments

"I will not let eastern Oklahoma become a reservation," Stitt declared earlier this month.

A closer look at the three proposals planned for the Oklahoma special session

Stitt said he wants the Legislature to approve "a tax cut that puts Oklahoma on the path to zero income taxes." He said "this will keep us in line with surrounding Republican-led states." Currently, nine states do not levy a state income tax, including neighboring Texas. The others are Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Washington and Wyoming.

Among several transparency proposals, he called for a requirement that no general appropriations bill or spending limit be acted upon without first being made publicly available in its final form for at least three legislative days.

More: A ballot question may be the only way to ease Oklahoma's strict abortion law, but is a movement underway?

His "trigger" request called for automatically eliminating "any tax assessed by the state or its political subdivisions if that same tax is found by a state or federal court to be inapplicable to any individual by virtue of their race, heritage or political classification."

Leaders of the Republican majority in the Legislature, Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, and Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, were not immediately available for comment. House Minority Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City, and Senate Minority Leader Kay Floyd, also were not immediately available.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt calls special session for October
It's Labor Day weekend at the Delaware beaches.

We've made it through another summer here in Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island. Though the season doesn't officially end until Sept. 23, the tourist season ends this weekend. Visitors and locals alike will be out soaking up the last of the summer ambiance on the beaches and boardwalks.

They'll all be back in droves on the weekends in the coming months, but this is the final weekly guide to the Delaware beaches for the summer. Read on for everything you need to know if you'll be here this weekend.

Weather

There have only been a couple of rainy weekend days at the Delaware beaches this summer, and this weekend isn't predicted to buck the trend.

A member of the Rehoboth Beach Patrol stands guard on day 1 of the Memorial Day Weekend at Rehoboth Beach on Saturday, May 27, 2023. Rip currents restricted swimmers to knee-deep entry into the ocean in selected areas of the beach.

According to the National Weather Service, both days will be sunny with temperatures around 80 degrees.

What will be different this weekend are the surf conditions. Hurricane season is roaring, and the National Weather Service has warned of "life-threatening rip currents and large battering waves through the weekend."

About 100 people are killed annually by rip currents, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association.

Rip currents are "powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water" that can move as fast as eight feet per second, according to NOAA. However, getting caught in one is far from a death sentence  if you know what to do.

Don't panic and don't try to swim straight for land. Both increase your risk of fatigue and drowning. Swim parallel to the shore to get out of the rip current and swim back to land at an angle, NOAA recommends. If you get tired, float.

Always swim near a lifeguard. At this time of year, the beaches have fewer guards because many of them have returned to school, so your regular beach may not be guarded. Make sure there's someone in the chair.

Traffic

Update: On Thursday afternoon, the president announced plans to go to Florida on Saturday to survey hurricane damage. According to the White House's "Weekend Guidance," released Friday night, Biden will now arrive in Rehoboth Beach on Saturday evening. He's scheduled to arrive at Dover Air Force Base at 8:15 p.m. and in Rehoboth at 8:35 p.m., so he will apparently be taking the helicopter.

President Joe Biden will be at his North Shores home, just north of Rehoboth Beach, this weekend. According to the White House's "Week Ahead Guidance," he plans to arrive Friday and stay for the weekend.

Biden usually arrives around 6 or 7 p.m. Sometimes he takes the Marine One helicopter, sometimes he opts to be driven. If he takes the helicopter, the Gordon's Pond parking lot, on the north end of Cape Henlopen State Park, will close for a few hours.

President Joe Biden arrives at Gordons Pond State Park near Rehoboth Beach, on Friday, Aug. 11, 2023.

If he arrives via motorcade, intersections on Coastal Highway will close as he passes through, causing brief traffic delays.

Biden doesn't typically venture far from his home when in town. It's likely he'll attend Mass at St. Edmond's Roman Catholic Church in Rehoboth Saturday evening and briefly stop downtown traffic when he arrives and leaves.

More information will be available as his arrival nears.

More: 'Please move over': DelDOT urges caution on roads as 4 department trucks hit in last week

What to do

Labor Day traditions: The Bethany Beach Jazz Funeral takes place on the Bethany boardwalk at 5 p.m. Monday. It features New Orleans-style jazz bands and is the town's official farewell to the summer season. Rehoboth Beach's take on the summer farewell, the Piping Out Parade, also starts at 5 p.m. Monday on the Rehoboth boardwalk.

Live music: Plenty of bars at the Delaware beaches offer live music on weekends, such as, to name a few, the Bottle & Cork, The Rusty Rudder, Paradise Grill, and Irish Eyes. Lewes, Rehoboth and Bethany Beach all offer free live music on summer weekends, too, so check your town's website for more details.

Say goodbye to summer at Bethany Beachs Jazz Funeral www.jazz-funeral.com

Theatre: This weekend is your last chance to see "Jesus Christ Superstar" at Clear Space Theatre Company in Rehoboth Beach. "Master Magician" Chris Capehart will perform at Dickens Parlour Theatre in Ocean View and The Milton Theatre has various music and comedy acts this weekend.

Festivals: The Freeman Arts Pavilion near Selbyville will host an Arts and Jazz Festival on Saturday starting at 4 p.m. Three notable jazz musicians will play and art will be for sale at this free event.

More: Accused of sexual assaults, Milton's Jimmie Allen still welcomed by these Delaware venues

What to know

Loitering and teen issues: Dewey Beach police have long wrangled large crowds of teens at night, and especially so around the Fourth of July this year. They often gather in the parking lot of the business plaza on the northeast corner of Coastal Highway and Dagsworthy Street, where Wings To Go is. In August, Dewey Beach Police Chief Constance Speake announced new efforts to curb loitering there.

"This lot often times is used for large groups to gather. These gatherings block passage in and out of the businesses," Speake said in a Dewey Beach Police Department Facebook post.

More: Construction to begin on new Rehoboth Beach lifeguard headquarters, public restrooms

The department recently entered into an agreement with the property owners that gives officers authority to "give warnings to persons that have no legitimate business on the property to vacate the premise or face arrest for trespassing."

Both Dewey Beach and Bethany Beach are enforcing curfews. In Bethany Beach, the curfew is 11 p.m. for anyone under the age of 18. It's the same in Dewey, except on Fridays and Saturdays, when the curfew begins at midnight.

Beach closures: There are currently no beach closures in Sussex County; however, water quality advisories are most frequently issued at this time of year.

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control issues an advisory when officials find elevated levels of Enterococci bacteria in the water at a guarded beach (among others). Enterococci indicates fecal matter in the water and the potential for disease.

An early August sun sets on the bay in Dewey Beach.

Above-standard Enterococci levels are usually caused by "wildlife sources and increased rainfall, waves or wildlife feeding near the surf (shorebirds, marine mammals or other warm-blooded animals)," according to the department.

It's a good idea to check back frequently. Swimming is not recommended when a water quality advisory is active.

Surf-fishing: We've reminded readers of the surf-fishing changes every week this summer, so consider this your final warning from Delaware Online/The News Journal.

You still need a permit to surf-fish on drive-on beaches, available at most state park offices, but now, if you want to drive on the beaches on a weekend or holiday, you also need a reservation.

Reservations are $4 per vehicle, per day and can be made at www.destateparks.com/SurfTagSales. The online system opens at 11 a.m. on Tuesdays for Saturday reservations and 11 a.m. on Wednesdays for Sunday reservations. The most popular drive-on beaches will likely sell out, so make reservations now.

Shannon Marvel McNaught reports on Sussex County and beyond. Reach her at smcnaught@gannett.com or on Twitter @MarvelMcNaught

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: What to know and do at the Delaware beaches Labor Day weekend
The husband of Rep. Mary Peltola , D-Alaska, has died in a plane accident in Alaska, her congressional office announced in a statement Wednesday morning.

"We are devastated to share that Mary's husband, Eugene Peltola Jr.  'Buzzy' to all of us who knew and loved him  passed away earlier this morning following a plane accident in Alaska," Peltola's chief of staff, Anton McParland, said in a statement.

Responding to requests for comment, the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board said in separate statements that a single-engine plane crashed after takeoff around 8:45 p.m. Tuesday near St. Mary's, a small city in western Alaska.

"The pilot flew a hunter and the hunters equipment to a remote location 64 miles away from St. Marys. After leaving the hunter, the plane took off to return and appears to have crashed in an area of remote, mountainous terrain. The pilot was the only person on board," the NTSB said.

NTSB investigators are responding with the Alaska Army National Guard, the agency said.

"He was one of those people that was obnoxiously good at everything. He had a delightful sense of humor that lightened the darkest moments. He was definitely the cook in the family," said the statement by Rep. Peltola's chief of staff. "He was completely devoted to his parents, kids, siblings, extended family and friends  and he simply adored Mary. We are heartbroken for the family's loss."

Mary Peltola is returning home to Alaska to be with her family, McParland said, and has asked for privacy. House members returned to Washington this week after a lengthy summer recess.

In a statement, the White House said President Joe Biden spoke to Peltola "and expressed his deepest condolences on the loss of her husband."

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., said he was "deeply saddened."

"The entire House Democratic Caucus is mourning the loss of Buzzy and we are lifting Mary and the Peltola family up in prayer. We will be there for her in any way she needs during this unimaginable time of tragedy," he said in a statement.

Mary Peltola, 50, has served in Congress since September 2022 after she won a special election to succeed Rep. Don Young, a Republican who died at 88 earlier in the year. Peltola, a former state legislator, beat GOP candidates Nick Begich and former Gov. Sarah Palin and became the first Alaska native to serve in Congress.

Peltola was then elected to a full two-year term in November, defeating Palin in the general election.

Several well-known politicians have died in Alaska plane crashes. In 1972, House Majority Leader Thomas Hale Boggs Sr., D-La., and Begich's grandfather, Rep. Nick Begich, D-Alaska, were aboard a small plane flying from Anchorage to Juneau when it disappeared. Neither the plane nor the passengers' remains were ever found.

In 2010, former Sen. Ted Stevens, R-Alaska, was killed in a plane crash along with four other people; four survived.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Chief Justice of the Kentucky Supreme Court Laurance B. VanMeter, serving the 5th Supreme Court District, is photographed Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023, in the Supreme Court Chambers at the State Capitol in Frankfort, Ky. (AOC photo/Brian Bohannon)

The Kentucky Supreme Court Chief Justice Laurance B. VanMeter, who took over the position this year, announced Tuesday he will not stay in that role for as long as his predecessor, as he will not seek reelection in 2024.

VanMeter, first elected to an eight-year term on the Supreme Court in 2016, was elected as chief justice by his colleagues last November and assumed the position Jan. 2. He succeeded former Chief Justice John D. Minton Jr., who served as as the high court's chief justice for 14 years, before declining to run for reelection in 2022.

In a statement, VanMeter said serving the people of his central Kentucky district on the court for the past seven years and being elected by his colleagues as chief justice have been "the greatest privileges of my professional life."

"However, the time is right for me to begin a new chapter and turn the reins over to someone else," VanMeter said. "I am announcing my decision now so that any qualified judges and lawyers can make the decision as to whether this office and consequent election campaign are appropriate for them."

VanMeter added that he will finish his term that runs through next year, expressing that he is "grateful and humbled by the trust of voters, my colleagues, and for the support of my family."

VanMeter is justice for the 5th Appellate Court District, comprised of Bourbon, Clark, Fayette, Franklin, Jessamine, Madison, Scott and Woodford counties in central Kentucky.

The chief justice he has served at all four levels of Kentuckys judiciary over the past three decades, elected to the positions of the Fayette District, Fayette Circuit, Kentucky Court of Appeals and Kentucky Supreme Court Justice. VanMeter is just the third judge in Kentucky history to have held office at all four of these levels and the only one of those to have served as chief justice.

VanMeter's Supreme Court district is the only one scheduled to have an election in 2024.

Several judicial races in Kentucky's 2022 election featured both an unusual amount of outside PAC spending and hard-edged advertising that resembled partisan races, including the Supreme Court race in the 5th District between incumbent Justice Michelle Keller and challenger Joe Fischer. Total spending in that Supreme Court race was just shy of $1 million, with two outside partisan PACs collectively spending more than $700,000 on ads.

Asked by The Courier Journal if his decision not to run again had anything to do with the changing nature of nonpartisan judicial races in Kentucky and other states, VanMeter said it did not.

"This is purely a life balance decision based on what's right for me and my family," VanMeter said, noting that he fully intended to run again earlier this summer, but changed his calculation after the sudden death of a close friend.

"I thought about, 'Am I willing to serve the entire term that's upcoming?' And the more and more I thought about it, no, there's just other things I'd rather do," VanMeter said.

VanMeter also said his decision was not based on any desire to avoid ruling on significant cases that are coming down the pike. He said signaling his intention to retire well ahead of the 2024 election is "in fairness to the process, in fairness to people who want to run, in fairness to the voters."

As for the changing nature of judicial election, VanMeter said that voters prefer candidates who tout their judicial experience over partisanship.

"If you think about the races that were run last fall, the candidates who tried to inject overt partisanship into the races, they all lost right," VanMeter said. "And part of my analysis is that the voters in Kentucky are used to nonpartisan elections, and by and large they look for the candidate who has the most judicial experience."

Asked if he still had plans to run for another office or public service at some point in the future, VanMeter said "we'll have to see... more can be revealed later."

Reach reporter Joe Sonka at jsonka@courierjournal.com and follow him on Twitter at @joesonka.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky Supreme Court Chief Justice VanMeter won't run for reelection
Children near a park were nearly purposely hit by an 18-year-old accused of reckless driving, Colorado officials said.

On Sept. 11, the man was seen quickly leaving Aqua Vista Park in a gold SUV after he was accused of almost hitting 20 kids, according to a Sept. 13 Facebook post by the Aurora Police Department.

Surveillance footage from a nearby home shows the car speeding towards a group of kids, police said.

Officers said, even though not shown in the video, there were more kids walking to a school bus or in the park.

Children were crossing the street, and others were on the sidewalk, police said.

One of the kids was almost hit when the car accelerated toward them as they were crossing the street, officers said.

Police have located the car and are determining possible charges, officials said.

The Aurora Police Department asks the public to call 720-913-7867 if you have any information on the incident, officials said.

Aurora is 10 miles east of Denver.

Wrong-way driver going over 100 mph says he was meeting friend for sex, Utah cops say

Car with only 3 tires reached speeds of 95 mph on I-95, Florida cops say

Motorcyclist was driving 100 mph before crash that killed pedestrian, Georgia police say
BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The number of passenger trips via China's urban rail transit networks soared 38.4 percent year on year, official data showed.

A total of 2.71 billion passenger trips were handled by China's urban rail transit networks in 54 cities last month, up 1.7 percent over the previous month, according to the Ministry of Transport.

The ministry said the figure also jumped 36 percent from the average monthly level in 2019.

China had 297 urban rail transit lines at the end of August, with a combined operation length of 9,771.8 km. 
The newly announced Holland America Line cruise leaves from Seattle and visits 13 exceptional destinations in Japan before returning to the U.S.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

On Sept. 1, 2024, youll be able to sail to Japan on a 53-day cruise. The Majestic Japan journey is Holland America Lines newest itinerary in the cruise lines Legendary Voyages program, which takes guests on extended cruises ranging from 25 to 59 days. (The Legendary Voyages program launched to honor Holland Americas 150th anniversary this year.)

And, you dont even have to fly to Japan to get there.

The Majestic Japan itinerary starts and ends in Seattle. From the Pacific Northwest, the ship, Westerdam, sails to Vancouver and Alaskas Aleutian Islands before heading down to Japan. Once in Japan, youll spend 20 days visiting 13 ports. It covers every part of the country, including Hokkaido as the first stop.

Luciano Mortula/Courtesy of Holland America Line

First, the cruise travels through the north and mountainous regions, heading up the east coast (as far north as Toyama) and stopping in Kobe and Yokohama. Since its a September cruise, the leaves in the high country will be turning to their brilliant fall colors, and the weather will be temperate and comfortable for all the itinerarys outdoor excursions.

On the south end of the country, passengers will stop in Nagasaki, Ishigaki, and Naha, then sail by Iwo Jima and Midway  two destinations of particular importance in World War II history.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Other Japanese ports on the cruise include Kushiro, Hakodate, Kochi, Hiroshima, Kanmon Strait, Fukuoka, Sakaiminato, and Kanazawa.

Guests will find a good balance of full-day port visits, overnights, as well as scenic cruising, said Paul Grigsby, the vice president of deployment and itinerary planning at Holland America Line.

On the way back to Seattle, the cruise spends three days in Hawaii.

According to research done by Holland America, the cruise lines customers are increasingly interested in longer cruises with more immersive experiences. This Japan itinerary was created with that in mind.

Alan LAW/Adobe Stock/Courtesy of Holland America Line

Consistently, Japan rates as one of the most desirable Asian cruise destinations, Grigsby said. Majestic Japan allows us to offer Japan from your doorstep with no more than a domestic air flight to and from Seattle. Because we can linger on our way, we have chosen to visit some of the best ports in Alaska, including Kodiak and Dutch Harbor, before landing at Kushiro, Hokkaido.

Aside from, you know, all the time you get to spend in Japan and on a cruise ship, the itinerary has two major things going for it. First, its one of the longest Japan itineraries on a major cruise line, with nearly three weeks in Japan. Second, Grigsby says, we are not aware of any major cruise line that has an immersive voyage like this sailing round-trip from the United States.

Right now, the Majestic Japan itinerary is on sale for $153 per day, with upgrades available for the Have It All Early Booking Bonus deal  that includes low-price guarantees on shore excursions; specialty dining; free upgrades to the Elite Beverage package and Premium Wi-Fi; and free prepaid Crew Appreciation costs, with cabin fares starting at $207 per day.

For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure.
On the Costco subreddit, one Costco member in South Korea shared a change at their warehouse food court that has some other members expressing concern. The user, pabo81, shared a picture of their food court with all of its sit-down tables replaced with four-foot-high, standing-only tables. "My Costco food court replaced the tables with standing-only monstrosities," they wrote. Pointing out that these tables are prohibitive for families with small children, the user described having to prop up one of their legs on the table's crossbar so that they could balance their ice-cream eating toddler.

Others chimed in, pointing out that the change isn't just an imposition for families with small children. The elderly, people with disabilities, and anyone who navigates public space differently are all affected. One user, butiamsotired, said that they had recently undergone brain surgery. Because they were still getting their balance, they noted that "there's no way I could navigate standing and eating right now."

According to other Costco members from around the world, the South Korea location isn't the only one to have introduced standing tables. Members in British Columbia and Osaka, Japan said they'd seen the same tables at their Costco food courts. In their cases, however, the standing tables were in addition to the regular sit-down tables, which, according to those users, haven't gone anywhere.

Read more: All The Benefits Of A Costco Membership

Other Costco Locations Have Made The Switch

Standing-only tables at a South Korea Costco - Reddit

While many shoppers weren't happy with the reported changes, other Reddit commenters saw the replacement of sit-down tables with standing-only ones in a different light. They cited their experiences with diners at Costco lingering after they'd finished their food, preventing others from sitting down to eat their Costco pizza or all-beef hot dogs. The practice can even force employees to stay late at their jobs. "Some members like to sit at the table for an hour after the warehouse is closed, and the managers have to stand there and watch them," wrote one user.

To these commenters, the point of the standing tables were to get diners in and out quickly. However, many of them believed there still needed to be places for families, the disabled, and the elderly to sit in the food court.

The original poster mentioned going to customer service with their issue. They didn't say anything about management's stated reason for the replacement (or if any was provided). While some warehouses may be bringing in the standing tables in addition to their sit-down tables, it appears that only this Costco location in South Korea has completely swapped them out. The discontent this change has created, though, may prompt the company to reconsider.

Read the original article on Daily Meal.
BROCKTON  The school district's assistant financial officer plans to file a Massachusetts Whistleblower Protection Act claim in relation to Brockton Public Schools' ongoing $14.4 million deficit in the fiscal year 2023 budget.

Chris Correia, the director of financial services for the school district, notified the city and Brockton School Committee on Friday, Sept. 8, of his plan to file a whistleblower complaint, as well as claims under the state and federal civil rights statutes.

Mayor Robert Sullivan placed Correia and Correia's boss, Aldo Petronio, the school district's chief financial officer, on administrative leave on Friday, Sept. 1. The action came a day after Sullivan stood outside Brockton High School, with the school committee behind him, and told members of the public and media that the district had overspent $14.4 million in fiscal year 2023, which ended in June.

Correia's attorney, Brockton's Timothy Burke, informed City Solicitor Megan Bridges, Acting Superintendent of Schools James Cobbs and Human Resources Director Sandi Charton on Friday of Correia's intention to file a whistleblower complaint.

'This is beyond irresponsible:' Brockton schools assistant CFO rang deficit alarm in 2022

What is a whistleblower employee?

"A whistleblower is a person who exposes suspected fraud, waste, abuse or other misconduct by an individual or organization," according to the Massachusetts Office of the Inspector General. "Often, a whistleblower is employed by, works with or has some other formal relationship with the alleged wrongdoer."

Whistleblowers can be entitled to legal protection under state or federal law as long as they follow certain procedures outlined in whistleblower statutes.

What laws protect whistleblowers in Massachusetts?

"Massachusetts whistleblower laws are designed to protect people who report information about suspected illegal, wasteful or unethical activity," the state's inspector general's website states.

People who report suspicious regarding illegal activity by an individual or organization to the state's public fraud, waste and abuse hotline may have their identity protected under state law.

State law protects whistleblowers from retaliation by their employers and criminalizes the intimidation of whistleblowers.

Where are Massachusetts whistleblower laws outlined?

The laws are written in Chapter 149, Section 185 of the Massachusetts General Laws.

Enterprise senior reporter Cody Shepard can be reached by email at cshepard@enterprisenews.com.

This article originally appeared on The Enterprise: What are MA's whistleblower laws? Brockton employee seeks protection
Megyn Kelly in an interview published Thursday pressed former President Donald Trump over his handling of classified documents after leaving the White House and questioned why Trump would not comply with a subpoena for the sensitive materials.

Kelly interviewed Trump on her SiriusXM show, where she zeroed in on the criminal case over Trumps handling and retention of classified materials. Trump faces two obstruction charges after the Department of Justice (DOJ) accused him and his co-conspirators of attempting to delete surveillance footage at his Mar-a-Lago property.

Trump insisted he had done nothing wrong, and he repeated his misleading assertion that his actions were covered by the Presidential Records Act, which states that the National Archives gets custody of all presidential records once a president leaves office.

Kelly repeatedly asked Trump why, even if he had the right to take the documents, he would not comply with a subpoena from the Justice Department to turn over materials with classified markings.

Trump equated it to former special counsel Robert Muellers investigation into whether his 2016 campaign coordinated with Russia. The probe did not establish that there was any collusion, and it punted on the question of whether Trump obstructed the investigation, even as it listed several instances of potential obstruction.

Well, that was my question, that you know, even if I think theyre accusing me of a fake crime, if I get a subpoena, I have to comply, Kelly said. I used to practice law for 10 years. Youve got to comply. Youve got to fork over the documents and then fight.

Trump insisted that he had complied with everything before federal agents searched his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida and found additional classified materials that the former president had not initially turned over.

I would have given it to them, Trump claimed. You know what, we had a meeting. I said, What do you want? And instead of doing that, because theyre doing this for political reasons. The reason theyre doing this is for election interference.

Kelly said she did not dispute Trumps assertion about the charges against him being politically motivated, but she reiterated that lawyers for the former president had signed off saying they turned over everything asked for in the subpoena only for federal agents to find more classified materials.

I dont know what the timing is. Again, Id have to check, Trump said. I just dont know the timing. All I know is, Im allowed to have those documents.

But once you get a subpoena you have to turn them over, Kelly responded.

I dont even know that because I have the right to have those documents. So I dont really know that, Trump said.

The former Fox News host also asked Trump about an incident cited by prosecutors in which he waves around a document in front of guests at his Bedminster, N.J., property and describes how it is secret and that he could no longer declassify it.

Trump claimed in an interview with Fox News in June that he was holding up a newspaper article, but Kelly asked him why he would describe a news clipping in such a way.

What were you waving around in that meeting? Because it certainly sounds like it was an attack plan, Kelly said.

Im not going to talk to you about that because thats already been, I think, very substantiated, and theres no problem with it, Trump responded.

Prosecutors in July filed a superseding indictment in Florida in the documents case, bringing the total number of counts facing the former president to 40. The superseding indictment added a charge based on the military documents Trump boasted of having in the Bedminster meeting.

Trump is currently scheduled to go on trial in May of next year, roughly 5 months after the initial December date suggested by the DOJ.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  The Metro Nashville Police Department has released a sketch of a woman who was found dead inside an abandoned house in hopes that someone may know her identity.

Police said a sketch artist with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation developed the drawing of the woman, whose body was discovered nearly three years ago on Nov. 26, 2020. Investigators believe she may have overdosed inside the abandoned house located off of Highway 70.

A TBI sketch of a woman found dead inside an abandoned house in November 2020. (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

PREVIOUS: Metro police trying to identify woman found dead in abandoned house in 2020

Authorities said the woman appeared to be in her 20s; was 5-feet 4-inches tall; weighed about 225 pounds; and had reddish-brown, wavy hair and brown eyes. The woman also had a tattoo of a red heart above a comma forming a semicolon on her left wrist.

Her tattoo was included in the artists sketch. Anyone who recognizes the woman is asked to contact Cold Case Detective Matt Filter at 615-862-7803.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
LANSING  Michigan Democrats opened hearings on two new gun bills Thursday after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer earlier this year signed into law measures related to background checks, safe storage, and keeping guns away from people a court has deemed dangerous to themselves or others.

Senate Bills 471 and 472 would prohibit those convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence from possessing a firearm for eight years.

Federal law, which prohibits people with felonies from possessing guns, already permanently prohibits those convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence from possessing firearms. But prosecutors, police and others told the committee that Michigan needs its own law that can be charged and prosecuted at the local and state level.

Several witnesses before the Senate Civil Rights, Judiciary and Public Safety Committee pointed to strong links between domestic violence and firearms. Among the studies cited is one from the American Journal of Public Health that found women are five times more likely to be killed by a domestic abuser when the abuser has access to a gun.

Handguns are lined up in a case for sale, during the Novi Gun and Knife Show at Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, Mich. on Feb. 24, 2018.

"This is not a gun bill," testified Trooper Kristina Droste, a former assistant prosecutor who now works as the Michigan State Police's legislative liaison, teaching recruits about domestic violence law. "This is a domestic violence bill  a victim bill."

The proposed bills are clearly constitutional because someone convicted of domestic violence is no longer entitled to a presumption of innocence, she said.

More: Michigan's gun laws change: Background checks, storage, temporary removal

Sen. Stephanie Chang, D-Detroit, who chairs the committee and sponsored the bills, heard 90 minutes of testimony in a packed hearing room in which many attendees wore red "Moms Demand Action" T-shirts. Chang, who said she's been working on the legislation for more than five years after Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy first told her about the need for it, said she will hear more testimony at a future hearing before calling for a vote.

Chang said 31 states, plus the District of Columbia, including many "red" states such as Indiana, Kansas, and Louisiana, already have such a law.

Tom Lambert, legislative director of Michigan Open Carry Inc. said the bills as written would bar firearm ownership or possession for people convicted of misdemeanors that have nothing to do with domestic assault or violence. "What we have here is a typical bait and switch," Lambert told the committee.

But others contradicted Lambert, noting the bill, in addition to citing specific offenses, spells out the relationship that would need to exist between the offender and the victim for the firearm prohibition to apply.

Sen. Jim Runestad, R-White Lake, the minority vice-chair of the committee, said he favors keeping guns away from violent domestic abusers but is concerned about the details. He said notice of the legislation was only given Tuesday, but proponents of the bills seemed to have received advance notice in order to rally in support so quickly. He wondered why he had not heard of a specific example in which the existing federal law was inadequate.

April Zeoli, an associate professor at U-M and director of the university's Institute for Firearm Injury Protection, then cited an Alabama case in which a man with a misdemeanor domestic violence conviction, though barred from possessing firearms under federal law, had his gun returned by local officials who lacked a state law under which to retain the guns. The man then shot and killed a former domestic partner, Zeoli said.

"Had they had that (state) law, they could have kept the gun," she told the committee.

Zeoli suggested two possible improvements to the bills: They should specify that they also apply to offenders who need guns for their employment, such as police officers and people in the military, as the federal law does, she said. Also, there should be language requiring those convicted of misdemeanor domestic assault to prove they have given up their guns, she said.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, who like Whitmer is a Democrat, was among those who testified in support of the bills.

Contact Paul Egan: 517-372-8660 or pegan@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @paulegan4.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan Democrats open hearings on further gun safety legislation
Russia rolled out the red carpet for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who stepped off his armored train this week and into a welcome that underscored just how important his reclusive regime has become for its neighbor.

Russian President Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine has left him short not only of friends, but also munitions to sustain his frustrated military.

The U.S. warnings about the North Korea-Russia summit illustrated concerns that Kim may agree to supply the ammunition that Moscows war effort seems to need.

But what could the summit actually mean for Putin and his guest?

Kim Jong Un, and Vladimir Putin during their meeting at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Tsiolkovsky, Russia (Vladimir Smirnov / AFP - Getty Images)

What does Russia need?

Mired in a war he hoped would have been over many months ago, Putins military is short of ammunition but fighting a conflict increasingly dominated by it, analysts said.

Russia is still ramping up its own production and its increasing global isolation has left Moscow looking elsewhere.

The White House warned last month that Russias arms negotiations with North Korea were actively advancing, and that Kim and Putin had exchanged letters pledging to increase their cooperation. Artillery munitions were likely to be a particular focus, it said.

Its hard to say exactly what was on the agenda at the Vostochny cosmodrome, but such a rare summit was likely motivated by the fact that Kim had something his host felt he needed.

Putins shopping list is pretty clear, said Michael Horowitz, an analyst who is the head of intelligence at Le Beck International, a security and risk management consultancy.

The Russian president wants ammunition, he said.

The fighting in Ukraine is very much driven by artillery: Simply put, if you can fire more at the enemy, you have a better chance of success, Horowitz added.

The White House has already accused North Korea of covertly supplying a significant number of artillery shells to Russia last year.

But the timing of Kims trip is significant, with Ukraine pushing to break through Russian lines before winter in a counteroffensive loaded with Western weapons.

A fresh supply of artillery from Pyongyang could further complicate Kyivs efforts.

The conflict has turned into an artillery duel more akin to the two world wars than modern warfare, said David Silbey, a military historian at Cornell University, with Russia firing an estimated 20,000 rounds a day compared with 5,000 by Ukraine, whose shells are mostly supplied by the U.S.

North Korean shells, he said, would allow the Russians to continue to hold those lines in the hope that Ukraine will run out of ammunition first.

Analysts said its difficult to assess exactly how much ammunition the reclusive state might have stored and readily available for shipping, or whether that stockpiled ammunition is in a battle-ready condition. It also remains unclear just how much ammunition North Korea is producing, and if it has the capacity to significantly expand its production, should the Kremlin ask it to do so.

But two types of shells (122 mm and 152 mm caliber munitions regularly used by Russia in Ukraine) and anti-tank missiles would likely be of particular value to the Kremlin.

North Korea would certainly have large stocks of Russian/Soviet standard ammunition, stocks that could provide real support for the Russians, who are using ammunition at a prodigious clip, said Phillips OBrien, a professor of strategic studies at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.

Russia already sources drones  a cheap but effective weapon designed to wear down Ukraines air defenses  from Iran, another Western adversary.

But while the Kremlin may be looking for an edge on the battlefield, could doing a deal with North Korea instead actually help refill Kyivs coffers?

South Korea, a key Western ally, also possesses large stocks of U.S. standard ammunition and the production capacity to make large amounts of it, OBrien said.

Seoul has so far refused to provide lethal aid to Ukraine to avoid angering Russia, but on Thursday expressed deep concern and regret about the summits apparent focus on military cooperation.

They may decide that if North Korea is backing Russia so openly, that they will provide similar aid to Ukraine, he added.

Kim Jong Un,Sergei Shoigu (KCNA / AP)

What could the North get in return?

Since Kims nuclear diplomacy with then-President Donald Trump collapsed in 2020, he has been vying for the worlds attention with a campaign of weapons tests. This barrage continued ahead of the summit, with North Korea firing two short-range ballistic missiles toward its eastern seas early Wednesday.

These shows of military strength may be designed to force the world into accepting North Koreas weapons program and easing sanctions for his impoverished nation. But now Kim appears to have something a major international leader wants, offering legitimacy and relevancy on the international stage at the other end of a long train journey.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, who visited Pyongyang in July, has already floated the idea of joint military drills, which would be a first for the isolated nation and a major boost for Kims status internationally.

Pyongyang, which has been heavily sanctioned and is still recovering from pandemic border closures, could seek much-needed humanitarian, energy and economic help from Moscow in exchange for arms.

More worryingly for the U.S. and its allies, it could also secure Russian technology that had been out of its reach, Horowitz said, although its unclear how far Moscow is willing to go to give higher-end technology in exchange for what really are basic weapons.

The venue for the summit may have hinted at this.

During his tour of the spaceport in Russias far east, Kim appeared to ask detailed questions about the technology used there. Putin said that he was showing great interest in rocket technology, and that North Korea was trying to develop its space industry.

Pyongyang could get advanced technology for satellites, nuclear-powered submarines and ballistic missiles, Victor Cha, senior vice president for Asia and Korea Chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a research organization in Washington, said in an analysis for NBC News.

Historically, North Korea relied on technology from the then-Soviet Union, with which it was politically and economically aligned until the latters fall in the 1990s, for its missile program and even recruited Soviet experts to help build it, according to the analysis.

The U.S. has sought to paint Kims visit to Russia as evidence of Putins failing campaign in Ukraine.

Not only has he failed to achieve his goals on the battlefield, but you see him traveling across his own country hat in hand to beg Kim Jong Un for military assistance, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said earlier this week.

But Cha said the U.S. and its allies have limited policy options in addressing the challenge of the growing cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

The tactical advantage that each foe gains in expanding cooperation complicates U.S. efforts in the war in Ukraine, he added.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
DENVER (KDVR)  A Colorado man was arrested after law enforcement said they searched his home and found more than a dozen firearms, potentially destructive devices and Nazi memorabilia and drawings.

According to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Colorado, 36-year-old Dean Fabiano was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.

Man bitten near homeless camp raises safety concerns

The investigation began after U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized a package from China labeled TOYS which came from a company known to send gun parts and counterfeit merchandise into the United States.

According to a criminal complaint, the package contained two Glock switches and was addressed to Fabiano. Neither of the switches, which allow a handgun to operate in a fully automatic fashion, had serial numbers.

What I found fascinating was that the feds had been tracking the importation of various trigger devices that would cause semi-automatic handguns, like the ones this guy possessed, to become fully automatic, and other silencers  we call them suppressors, said legal analyst George Brauchler. Theyve been tracking places in China that had been shipping them to the U.S. and disguising them as toys or other similarly weighted devices, and so they were on the lookout for this.

Brauchler said the Nazi memorabilia is troubling, but by itself, its protected by the First Amendment. The complaint did not list any evidence of a specific threat.

Federal law enforcement is taking a very aggressive approach when it comes to trying to keep firearms out of the wrong hands, and it begins even before stuff enters the country, he said.

Felon banned from owning guns and ammo

This was at least the sixth shipment addressed to Fabiano since 2018 which, according to the criminal complaint, came from companies known to ship gun parts into the United States illegally.

Fabiano has multiple felony convictions dating back to 2002 that prohibit him from owning firearms or ammunition.

2 homicides on South Platte River Trail may be linked

On Sept. 6, federal law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Fabianos home where they reported finding the following:

18 firearms

Various firearm parts and ammunition

Body armor

Suspected drugs including Xanax, psilocybin mushrooms, suspected meth

Potential destructive devices including elements needed for pipe bomb construction

Nazi memorabilia and drawings

During the search, law enforcement also said they found a letter from a storage unit that Fabiano was renting. Officers were able to obtain a search warrant for the storage unit and allegedly found additional guns, including one that had its serial number covered over by a swastika.

The case is now being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
For more than 30 weeks, the international media has covered the widespread protests in Israel against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the government coalition he assembled after the November 2022 elections. The protests began in response to the proposal of sweeping judicial reforms. However, in the next few weeks, things will come to a head when the Supreme Court  the judiciary body that Netanyahu seeks to handicap  presides over cases that could bring Netanyahu and his government to the moment of truth.

The Israel political system mandates elections for its 120-member parliament, the Knesset, every four years. Due to the multi-party system and the many parties that run in each election, no single party wins a majority. So, parties form coalitions to achieve at least a 61-member majority to govern. Here is the construct of the current governing coalition: Netanyahu's Likud party has 32 seats. Ultra-Orthodox parties together have 18 seats. Religious Zionist parties together have 14 seats.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrives for a briefing near the Salem military post in the occupied West Bank on July 4, 2023. Israel's biggest military operation for years in the occupied West Bank continued for a second day on July 4, leaving at least 10 Palestinians dead and forcing thousands to flee their homes as the government said it struck "with great strength" the militant stronghold.

Netanyahus government faces intense pressure, both internally and externally.

At its core, Netanyahus biggest struggle has been his own indictment for corruption and breach of trust. Ironically, when his predecessor, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, was under indictment for similar charges, Netanyahu was one of the loudest voices calling for Olmerts resignation. Indeed, Olmert did step down. However, Netanyahu has not applied the same standards to himself.

Instead, one of the first laws his current government passed was the Incapacitation Law, which mandates a vote of 81 Knesset members to oust a sitting prime minister. One of the core arguments of the protestors is that this law was designed specifically to shield Netanyahu and allow him to avoid conviction. Israels Supreme Court is now examining this contentious law and will hear petitions against it in September, as well as those filed against the law of reasonableness.

But regardless of what the court decides in September, Netanyahus current government is caught in its own house of cards  trapped in a repeating cycle of threats from coalition members who know the power they wield over Netanyahu. Coalition members frequently leverage their influence over the Prime Minister by threatening to withdraw from the coalition. If they do so, it could cause the government to collapse. These threats come whenever their own demands aren't met or if Netanyahu bows to the wishes of the opposition or protestors.

Netanyahus current partners from both the ultra-Orthodox and Religious Zionist camps, hold an unprecedented and disproportionate amount of influence within the current government. Because they have never wielded this strong of a role, both groups have built mile-long lists of legislative priorities that they are rushing to legislate during the current governments term.

More perspective: Israel 2023: The triumph of Israel's Declaration of Independence

While to many, it appears unlikely that they would choose to give up their current power by leaving or breaking apart the government, the never-ending threats have led to a perception that Netanyahu is a "hostage" to his own government. Maintaining his position as Prime Minister seems to be his only chance to avoid or at least postpone his conviction. This has led to Netanyahu being labeled as "subject to extortion" both within his Likud party, among his coalition partners, and among the opposition.

Protests against the Israeli government are intensifying, and clear fractures are appearing within the coalition. These cracks suggest potential discord and instability inside the government.

Tensions are rising and fractions are evident within the Religious Zionist camp due to increasing opposition to its hardliner faction, led by Homeland and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and Knesset legislative committee chairman Simcha Rotman. This hardliner groups ideology, rhetoric, and its legitimization of the actions of extremist settlers who act violently against Palestinians, faces significant opposition from the majority of the Israeli public.

The Haredi community does not really care about "judicial reform." Instead, they are alarmed that the escalating protests on this issue amplify criticism of their way of life. Representing approximately 15% of the Israeli population  a number that is on the rise  the Haredi community has contributed minimally to Israel's national security and economy. This limited contribution is rooted in the community's values: Haredi leaders emphasize religious studies and rituals, often sidelining secular and professional education. This approach not only perpetuates poverty within their ranks but also increases their dependency on the broader Israeli economy.

Finally, within Netanyahus own Likud party and support base there is a growing unrest. In an unprecedented move since the formation of the government, several Likud Knesset members have started to voice strong objections to the attempt of hardliners within the government to dictate unilateral "judicial reform." While some view this call as a calculated attempt by Netanyahu to quell public protests, it likely also mirrors the genuine concerns of Likud parliamentarians about the coalition's actions. These concerns stem from two main sources: ongoing polls show dwindling support from traditional Likud backers, and there's increasing unease about the long-term fallout from Israel's ongoing crisis. This sentiment is often summed up by the saying, "When the ship sinks, everyone drowns."

The moment of truth for Netanyahu and his government is approaching. In September, Israel's Supreme Court is set to rule on the contentious Incapacitation Law. There is credible speculation that the court might overturn it which will force Netanyahu to a daunting crossroads. If he refuses to accept the court's decision, a tsunami of protests threatens to tear Israel apart. And it is likely that the heads of the security and law enforcement establishments, along with the countrys economic power centers and major social organizations, will side with the Supreme Court. If this happens, the government's very legitimacy will crumble. On the other hand, bowing to the court's decision would strip Netanyahu of the protective cloak of legal immunity, leaving him exposed and even more tethered to his fickle allies. Such a climate could embolden senior Likud politicians aspiring to replace Netanyahu, tempting them to dramatically defect from the coalition to collapse the government in order to hasten Netanyahu's final exit from the political stage.

As of the summer of 2023, it seems unlikely that Israel's 37th Knesset will be able to complete its entire term.

Avi Melamed is a former Israeli intelligence official who went on to serve as deputy and then as senior Arab affairs adviser to Jerusalem Mayors Teddy Kollek and Ehud Olmert, operating as a negotiator during the first and second intifadas. He is the author of "Inside The Middle East | Entering A New Era, and his latest docuseries, The Seam Line, available on the Izzy streaming platform, focuses on Jerusalems flashpoints and his work during the intifadas.

Avi Melamed

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Israel: Netanyahu grinds toward a new moment of truth
SEOUL, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Kim Jong Un, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) had a historic meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday in the Russian Far East, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Thursday.

Kim, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK, met with his Russian counterpart at the Vostochny spaceport in the Amur region, the report said.

The two leaders had a one-on-one session after an extended talk which also involved senior officials from the two countries.

According to the KCNA, the extended talk addressed the issues of further consolidating the friendship, solidarity and cooperative relations and boosting mutual trust by deepening the exchanges and cooperation in various fields including high-level visits between the two countries, and steadily expanding the bilateral ties.

The two sides also had a wide-ranging and in-depth exchange of views on important issues of mutual concern.

During the one-on-one meeting, Kim and Putin reached an agreement and consensus on further strengthening strategic and tactical cooperation between the two countries and extending strong support to and solidarity with each other on the common front of frustrating military threats.

At the invitation of Putin, Kim left the DPRK capital Pyongyang on Sunday to visit Russia by a special train and arrived in the Russian border city of Khasan early Tuesday.

According to the KCNA, Kim also visited the Vostochny spaceport with Putin on Wednesday. The Russian president hosted on the same day a welcoming reception for Kim and accepted Kim's invitation to visit his country. 
Ohio State students walk across the Oval on Aug. 24, 2023 at the university's main campus in Columbus.

Ohio State University announced a new slate of safety resources Thursday afternoon in response to several high-profile crimes on and around campus in the last two months.

The university plans to "significantly expand" crime prevention programs and work with Columbus police to increase evening and overnight off-campus patrols during the academic year, according to a news release. Expanded police patrols will be adjusted based on needs in the University District and other real-time information.

Ohio State news: Most Ohio State crime numbers stayed consistent in 2021, according to new report

The health and safety of our university community is our top priority, Ohio State Acting President Peter Mohler said in a prepared statement. We will continue to evaluate ways to improve our approach to safety on campus and in the surrounding neighborhoods. These new measures reflect that commitment.

In addition to expanding off-campus police patrols, the university authorized:

Ohio State University Police Division to hire five additional police officers, increasing the total force to 75 officers. Two of the positions will support its joint patrols with the Columbus Division of Police in the University District. (Since January, OSUPD has hired nine additional officers.)

Purchase of additional mobile surveillance cameras to be placed at various locations.

Continued support for the license plate reader program and video storage.

Renewal of Buckeye Block Watch foot patrols in targeted University District areas. Buckeye Block Watch is a safety team comprised of volunteer citizens taught how to deal with difficult situations and learn skills like dealing with mental health crises, first aid and CPR.

Campus Area Bus Service (CABS) On-Demand, which provides free transportation between campus buildings after 9 p.m., to add two stops on the east side of High Street, at University Square and South Campus Gateway.

These changes will increase Ohio State's current annual campus safety budget, which currently sits at $35 million. A figure on exactly how much these measures will add to the budget was not immediately available from Ohio State.

Ohio State has invested in mobile lighting units to light up high traffic walkways at night near the campus.. Mobile lights brighten up an area along Indianola Ave. on Friday, October 8, 2021. To the right of the lights is a moble camera unit.

We are committed to working with our city partners, and we talk daily about crime and crime trends, said Monica Moll, Ohio States director of public safety. We are confident these increased resources will help Ohio State and our community partners make an impact in our effort to improve safety and security in the campus area.

Campus safety has been a consistent issue for students and their families over the last few years.

In October 2020, Chase Meola, a fifth-year Ohio State business student, was killed in an early morning shooting outside the off-campus Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity house. Meola's death sparked a massive response from students and parents calling for more safety measures.

In September 2021, former Ohio State President Kristina M. Johnson announced the university would invest an additional $2 million a year in funding over the next decade to enhance safety and security measures on and off campus. Moll said that investment hs led to a decrease in crime.

Those measures included:

Installation of additional lighting and cameras.

Extra police and security patrol.

Added surveillance cameras at all campus parking garages, increasing the university's surveillance camera count to more than 4,000.

Additional fixed cameras installed and mobile cameras in off-campus neighborhoods.

Acquisition of 63 license plate-reader cameras with coverage both on and off campus.

Days before the beginning of this school year, Ohio State University wrestler Sammy Sasso was shot and seriously injured during a carjacking near the Short North Kroger.

An Ohio State student walking near the Residence on 10th residence hall was robbed at gunpoint around 12:20 a.m. on Sept. 9. Last week, 77-year-old Emily Foster, a University District writer and resident, was found stabbed to death in her home on Iuka Avenue after a neighbor went to check on her.

Moll said the reality of living in an urban center means that, despite the university's best efforts, crime will happen. Living in a digital age, she said, can sometimes seem worse than it is.

"When you hear about a significant tragic incident, it can definitely put you on edge," Moll said.

Moll said the university is open to hearing student feedback about what they need to feel safe.

"A couple of incidents is a couple of incidents too many," she said. "We will keep doing everything we can to make students feel safe and comfortable."

Ohio State has invested in mobile lighting units to light up high traffic walkways at night near the campus.. Mobile lights brighten up the corner of E 12th Ave. and N. Pearl St. on Friday, October 8, 2021.

Sheridan Hendrix is a higher education reporter for The Columbus Dispatch. Sign up for Extra Credit, her education newsletter, here.

shendrix@dispatch.com

@sheridan120

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio State announces new safety measures in response to campus crimes
Mar-Jac Poultry in Hattiesburg, Miss., pictured here on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, is the site where a 16-year-old Mayan from Guatemala, who had moved to Hattiesburg with his family, was killed in a workplace accident.

Authorities with the U.S. Department of Labor are looking to Mar-Jac Poultry employees for information about the workplace that could help them in their investigation into the death of 16-year-old Duvan Perez.

Perez, an indigenous Mayan from Guatemala, was killed July 14 during a workplace accident at Mar-Jac Poultry in Hattiesburg.

"As federal investigators continue to try to understand how a 16-year-old died at the Mar-Jac Poultry plant in Hattiesburg, we are asking current Mar-Jac employees for their assistance," OSHA Jackson Area Director Courtney Bohannon said in a news release.

"Federal law protects the rights of workers to participate in a U.S. Department of Labor investigation and forbids employers from interfering in any way, including by retaliating against an employee who does. With help from Mar-Jac's workers, we can make sure the employer provides a safer environment for everyone who works there."

The Associated Press reported in an earlier story it had obtained records that indicated Perez was working on a sanitation crew at Mar-Jac when he became entangled in a conveyor belt he was cleaning. Anyone under the age of 18 is prohibited by federal child labor laws from working certain jobs at any meat-processing plant.

Mar-Jac officials blamed an unnamed staffing company for hiring Perez to work at the plant and said Perezs paperwork appeared to misrepresent his age, according to the Associated Press.

Following Perez's death, the Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Wage and Hour Division opened workplace safety and child labor investigations at Mar-Jac Poultry plant.

The administration obtained a warrant from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi, which allows OSHA access to the Mar-Jac facility, OSHA officials said in a news release. Federal officials also are able to question any employer, operator, agent or employee privately and review records related to the operation and maintenance of the equipment involved in the incident.

"Child labor laws exist to safeguard young workers from tragedies like the one that happened at the Mar-Jac Poultry plant," said Wage and Hour Division District Director Audrey Hall. "To fully protect workers, we need information from employees and the community at large."

OSHA representatives are working with local community groups to establish trust with workers and their families and collaborating with advocacy groups, such as the Immigrant Alliance for Justice and Equity of Mississippi, to contact immigrant workers who are afraid of retaliation.

Do you work at Mar-Jac?

If you are an employee at the Mar-Jac Poultry plant in Hattiesburg who may have relevant information to provide investigators, you may contact OSHA at 855-321-6742 or the Jackson Area Office at 601-965-4606.

Callers can speak confidentially, if requested. Plant workers also may submit a confidential complaint at osha.gov/workers/file-complaint.

Reports also may be made confidentially to the Wage and Hour Division at 866-487-9243 to file a complaint or share information confidentially

Spanish-speaking workers may contact the Employment Education and Outreach Alliance hotline at 877-522-9832 to speak to someone confidentially.

This article originally appeared on Hattiesburg American: OSHA seeks employees to talk after Hattiesburg teen's death at Mar-Jac
As we mark the 22nd anniversary of 9/11, I hold no illusions that we wont see a crisis again. The question is Who will be there to lead us through it?

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves recently announced via social media that despite all the COVID-screechers lining up to put masks and mandates in place, There are some on the left that still want Covid restrictions. Let me say it again  there will be no mask mandates, COVID vaccine mandates or lockdowns in Mississippi..

Firm, unequivocal and easily understood. Refreshing really.

Phil Williams

Years ago, I told Rick Perry during his presidential campaign that I wanted a God-fearing gunslinger in the executive office. Someone who is not faint of heart. A leader who can care about people and direct traffic all at the same time. Someone who operates decisively while listening to wise and carefully selected counsel. An executive who studies the issues deeply, but will still hear advice. Someone who will admit mistakes and tell you what it will take to ensure they never happen again.

Theres not much of that available in the public arena right now.

But what about our state? We have crisis opportunities here as well. We are halfway through the final term of Gov. Kay Ivey. Cultural, fiscal and social fights are only getting more intense. The kind of leader we want as the chief executive of this great state should already be on our minds, as the race will begin right after this current presidential cycle is over.

I have served with inspiring leaders in military, political and civilian roles. I know that none of the traits we should look for are imaginary. They are real and when a people are in crisis, they are needed. I submit that we need a God-fearing gunslinger to face down the times we are in.

Having just endured the past few years of COVID, Biden, Afghanistan, BLM protests and more, I find myself modeling in my mind what I know that we need and deserve in the governors office. It starts with a simple question: What should a God-fearing gunslinger governor say or do in a crisis?

Heres my personal checklist:

 In a crisis, we want a leader who will stand up quickly and, with steely-eyed confidence, say to the people of the state, We will get through this. We will be here tomorrow.

 We want a leader who will say, I dont know it all, but there are people in my administration who do, and if they dont, I will find those that can join our team.

 That kind of governor would not long suffer any fools who let turf wars prevent governmental assets being of good use, and would be willing to replace a person of any stature who impeded recovery.

 In a major crisis, the governor were looking for would meet with the press at least once a week to answer any questions candidly  the good, the bad and the ugly  knowing that the well-being of the people is not about appearances or poll numbers.

 A God-fearing gunslinger governor would make known that following the science is only one aspect of decision making in crisis management, and that considerations of culture, faith, liberty and law will always be on the table.

 Such a governor would make clear that the government is not the end-all/be-all and would incentivize and galvanize the voluntary support and cooperation of the private sector and the vast resources and capabilities that exist outside of governments walls.

 We hope for a governor who would refuse to allow politics to play into decisions that affect life, limb or property. One who would not let politics enter into a crisis and negatively affect education and economy. That kind of governor would openly say that they did not get elected to get reelected and that doing right aint that hard.

 That kind of governor would make clear that fear and shame are not tools of their administration. If a behavior is believed best (like getting a vaccine), then this leader would point people to it and not blame them for deaths and destruction for which they had no part.

 The governor Im describing would direct that relief funds must be given liberally to the private sector in a manner that does not have the government picking winners and losers like weve seen in the last few years.

 That kind of governor would make known that any crisis-induced excuse to commit a violation of civil liberties would not be tolerated, and would make the preservation of our individual and corporate rights a priority evidenced by advancing collaborative work with the state Legislature and the attorney general regardless of party affiliation.

 Lastly, in a time of crisis we long for a governor who would walk among the people  eat at their restaurants, frequent their parks, visit their churches, hug their necks and shake their hands, and if necessary, visit them at the hospital. It is not enough to speak from the safety of the Capitol. A good leader must walk out under fire and exude confidence to those they lead.

So, what do I want from a governor for my state? I want a leader who can and will do all of the above. Show me a governor who will do those things and I will be their champion. I will donate funds, knock on doors and extol their virtues.

Is there a God-fearing gunslinger in our future? I hope so. We need them for such a time as this.

Phil Williams is a former state senator from District 10 (which includes Etowah County), retired Army colonel and combat veteran, and a practicing attorney. He previously served with the leadership of the Alabama Policy Institute in Birmingham. He currently hosts the conservative news/talk show Rightside Radio on multiple channels throughout north Alabama. The opinions expressed are his own.

This article originally appeared on The Gadsden Times: Phil Williams looks at his ideal qualities for a governor
Christina Parcell was found stabbed to death in her Greer, South Carolina, home on Oct, 31, 2021 and a Juilliard-trained pianist was charged.

Now, Greenville County sheriff investigators say that man, Zachary David Hughes, sent nude photos of her about three months before she was murdered to numerous people and businesses. He, along with John Mello, the father of Parcells child, were charged Thursday with harassment and emotional distress.

Lt. Ryan Flood said Thursday Mello was arrested at his Greenville home and Hughes was served in jail, where he has remained in custody since he was arrested in November 2021.

As you may know, a substantial amount of evidence was obtained during the murder investigation of Christina Parcell, and upon their investigation, it was revealed that Mello and Hughes conspired to send explicit and pornographic images of the victim to numerous individuals and businesses back in June 2021, Flood said.

Mello has not been charged in Parcells death. Officers say he and Hughes were friends. Mello was charged in October 2021 with custodial interference in a dispute with Parcell over their young daughter.

Prosecutors in the murder case obtained access to Hughes cell phone which showed messages between Hughes and Mello, including one from April 2021 in which Mello gave Hughes Parcells private number and said harass the (expletive) out of her.

Parcell, who worked in a veterinarians office, was found dead in her home in a Greer subdivision, in a killing Sheriff Hobart Lewis called brutal and violent. Parcell was stabbed multiple times.

Video surveillance shows a man going in and out of Parcells home on that day when neighbors said they saw a vehicle they had not seen before, a gold Ford Ranger.

Hughes drives a gold Ford Ranger, officials said.

Lewis said when Hughes was arrested he was not from Greenville but travels as a concert pianist. On his website, Hughes says he is a graduate of Juilliard. He is originally from California but has been in Greenville for a few years.

Lewis said Hughes had been renting a room in downtown Greenville. Warrants say forensic evidence and video surveillance tie Hughes to the murder. He has no previous criminal record.
Russian President Vladimir Putin is so paranoid that he will be killed, an ex-security officer said per reports.

The ex-member of Putin's protection service reportedly said Putin has armed divers looking for would-be assassins.

"This is how much he fears for his life," Vitaly Brizhaty told Russian outlet TV Rain, according to a report.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is so paranoid that he has armed divers on the hunt for would-be assassins around his private beaches and deliberately gives out bogus information to his own bodyguards, according to a defected ex-security officer.

"This is how much he fears for his life," Vitaly Brizhaty, the former member of Putin's protection service, said during a recent interview with independent Russian outlet TV Rain, according to a translation of the interview by The Telegraph.

Brizhaty  who worked for the Federal Protection Service and fled from Russia to Ecuador after the Kremlin invaded Ukraine, according to Radio Free Europe  also said that Putin is so worried about being killed that he has one of his bodyguards working as a washing machine operator at a palace in Russian-annexed Crimea, The Telegraph reported, citing the TV Rain interview.

The ex-security officer said that he was a dog handler for the FSO and stationed at one of Putin's secret properties in Crimea, according to the news outlet.

Brizhaty, who referred to the Crimean palace as a "fantasy place" and "mini-city," said that Putin did not fully trust his own guards and often would lie to them about how he would arrive in Crimea and where he would stay, according to the report.

"People were told, 'he's resting at the dacha' and everybody is running around guarding him, but he could be in another place altogether," Brizhaty told TV Rain, according to The Telegraph.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is returning to the U.S. next week, intent on making a case for continued support for his embattled nation in both New York and Washington.

Zelenskyy will meet President Joe Biden in the White House on Thursday after addressing the U.N. General Assembly two days earlier, according to an administration official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive visit.

In December, Zelenskyy impressed upon receptive members of Congress that helping fund Ukraine's war effort against Russia was not charity but an investment in democracy. He's now expected to return to Capitol Hill at a time when Republicans control the House and Congress is debating Bidens request of $24 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine.

The trip to the Capitol was confirmed by two congressional aides granted anonymity to discuss the plans.

Biden has steadfastly stood behind Ukraines fight to defend its territory, directing billions of dollars toward that cause. He also traveled to Kyiv to visit Zelenskyy in February.

The last time the two leaders met was in July at the NATO summit in Lithuania, where Zelenskyy drew strong support but not the timeline he wanted for Ukraine to join the military alliance.

War developments:

 The International Criminal Court has opened a field office in Kyiv, the tribunal's largest outside its home base of The Hague, Netherlands, according to Ukraine Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin. The ICC has issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin , accusing him of war crimes in Ukraine.

 A Russian pilot intentionally fired missiles at an unarmed British surveillance plane in international airspace over the Black Sea last September after getting an ambiguous command, not quite the technical malfunction Russia blamed for the incident, the BBC reported. British officials have downplayed the encounter.

FILE - The U.S. Embassy, centre, is seen in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, May 11, 2021. Russia's Foreign Ministry on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023 declared two U.S. diplomats "persona non grata" and ordered them to leave the country within seven days as they were allegedly involved in "illegal activity." (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko, File) ORG XMIT: XDL112

Russia expels two U.S. diplomats over 'illegal activity'

The frayed U.S.-Russia relations took another step toward ripping apart Thursday when the Kremlin ordered two American diplomats to leave the country within a week, accusing them of illegal activity.

The decision prompted a new round of recriminations from both sides, including an accusation from State Department spokesman Matthew Miller that Russia continues to harass employees of our embassy, just as it continues to intimidate its own citizens.

Russias Foreign Ministry deemed Jeffrey Sillin, the first secretary at the U.S. Embassy in Russia, and David Bernstein, the second secretary, persona non grata Thursday, saying in a statement they maintained contact with a former employee of the U.S. Consulate in Vladivostok who was arrested earlier this year. The ex-employee was accused of collecting information for U.S. diplomats about Russias war in Ukraine and related issues.

The U.S. Embassy in Moscow called the expulsion unprovoked and an intimidation attempt.

Interactions between the two nations with the largest nuclear armaments in the world have progressively deteriorated since the Kremlin invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and the White House spearheaded the resistance.

The statement warned U.S. diplomats against interference in the internal affairs of the host country, and urged the Biden administration not to take confrontational steps.

Miller all but assured those would be forthcoming, telling reporters in Washington that Russia has chosen confrontation and escalation over constructive diplomatic engagement and adding, You can certainly expect that we will respond appropriately to their actions.

Large sanctions package aims to curtail penalty evasion

Seeking to deny the Kremlin access to technology and thwart its attempts at evading penalties, the Biden administration announced Thursday a large package of sanctions that hit more than 150 businesses and people from Russia to NATO member Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Georgia.

The package also aims to hobble the development of Russias energy sector and future sources of cash, including Arctic natural gas projects, as well as mining and factories producing and repairing Russian weapons.

"With today's sanctions, the United States is continuing our relentless work to target Russia's military supply chains and deprive Putin of the equipment, technology, and services he needs to wage his barbaric war on Ukraine," Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen said in a statement.

Ex-Commerce Secretary Pritzker to help guide Ukraine's economic recovery

Former Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker, a major Democratic donor with Ukrainian family roots, was announced Thursday as the U.S. coordinator for Ukraine's economic-recovery and reconstruction efforts.

Her role will include channeling investment toward the battered country and restarting businesses shut down during the war.

Working in lockstep with the Ukrainian government, our allies and partners, international financial institutions, and the private sector, she will drive the United States efforts to help rebuild the Ukrainian economy, Biden said in a statement.

Pritzker, 64, served during the Obama administration and is the older sister of Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

Contributing: The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Zelenskyy to meet Biden, address Congress and UN next week
A trio of cars were left dangling on the edges of a sinkhole outside a dealership in Massachusetts, according to local reports.

The sinkhole opened up in Leominster, Massachusetts after heavy rains  which triggered a flash flood warning  destabilised the ground, opening up a 15-foot deep chasm, according to WCVB.

Public works crews were out on Wednesday working to repair the damage caused by the sinkhole.

Crews expressed concerns that the flood and subsequent sinkhole might have weakened the foundation of a home near the affected area. The couple living in the house were forced to leave on Monday night.

Andrew Obin said his parents  Arthur and Joanne, who live at the house  were warned by their neighbour that the area was collapsing just before their front yard was pulled into the hole.

"He let them know it was time to go and they got out just in time," Mr Obin told the outlet. "Basically, we're just lucky it didn't happen overnight while they were sleeping."

Water running beneath a nearby street acts as a culver for a pond in nearby Barrett Park, according to residents. The park flooded due to heavy rains, and its dam was destabilised.

Another resident, Sharon Testa, said she had lived in the area for six years and had "never seen anything like this."

A trio of cars caught on the edge of a sinkhole that opened up in Leominster, Massachusetts after heavy rains (screengrab/WCVB)

She noted that the area was not a flood zone and was concerned that insurance companies would not cover the damages.

Mr Obin shared the same fear, and started a GoFundMe page for his parents to assist them in the event their insurance companies refused to help.

He said he assumed his parents' home would be condemned.

The city's mayor, Dean Mazzarella, said the city would likely take a week to re-open the affected street to traffic.

Public works officials examine the damage to a road and front yard that was washed away by recent flooding, Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, in Leominster, Mass. (AP)

In addition to the damage to surrounding properties and businesses, the flooding also revealed gas mains. National Grid crews were dispatched to inspect and secure the mains ahead of the state's Department of Public Works efforts to repair the roadway.

Sinkholes are often triggered by heavy rain or surface flooding, according to the British Geological Survey, and as a result are likely to become more prevalent as the climate crisis driven by the burning of fossil fuels worsens.

A study conducted by the European Geosciences Union journal, Natural Hazards and Earth System Science found that for every 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0.1C) rise in global temperature, the number of sinkholes increased between 1 and 3 per cent.
A body found in the trunk of a car parked outside a popular Korean bathhouse revealed abuse and deceit at the hands of a self-proclaimed religious group, Georgia police said.

Police were called to Jeju Sauna in Duluth on Sept. 12 after a 911 caller said there was a body in the trunk of a silver Jaguar parked outside, McClatchy News previously reported.

Inside was the decomposing body of a woman in her 20s or 30s, Gwinnett County police said in a Sept. 14 news release.

Detectives believe 26-year-old Eric Hyun drove the car and parked it in the bathhouses parking lot sometime earlier, according to the release.

Hyun then called a family member to come and pick him up and take him to the hospital for what police said are unrelated injuries.

While there, Hyun asked the family member to grab an item from the Jaguar, according to the release.

The family member found the body in the trunk and called 911, police said.

Officers and detectives searched a home in Lawrenceville that they said was associated with Hyun and found a bloodied basement floor, according to crime scene photos shared by police.

The woman, who has not been identified pending the notification of her death to her family in South Korea, was lured to the United States sometime over the summer by a group calling themselves the Soldiers of Christ, police said in a Sept. 14 news conference streamed by WAGA.

She came to the U.S. intending to join the group, police said in the news conference, but when she arrived she was put in the basement and beaten.

She was starved for weeks, and at the time of her death she weighed just 70 pounds, according to police.

Police said they believe she died sometime in late August, according to the news conference, and was in the trunk of the Jaguar for a few days.

The womans official cause of death is still under investigation, but the medical examiner said malnourishment was a contributing factor to her death, according to the release.

Hyun was taken into custody in the hospital, police said at the news conference.

Police identified the other members of the Soldiers of Christ that were living at the home, including three brothers.

Gawom Lee, 26, Joonho Lee, 26, Juoonhyum Lee, 22, Hyunji Lee, 25, and a 15-year-old were all taken into custody.

The brothers include two adults and the teenager, and one woman charged is a girlfriend of one of the brothers, police said in the news conference.

Hyun also lived at the home for a period of time, police said, but was not related to the other members of the Soldiers of Christ.

All six religious group members were charged with felony murder, false imprisonment, tampering with evidence and concealing the death of another, police said.

Police said in the news conference they do not believe the family member that found the body is involved, and they have not been charged with a crime.

Police have not found evidence of any other victims, they said in the news conference, and they believe all people involved have been charged.

The investigation is ongoing.

The home is n Lawrenceville, about 15 miles from where the womans body was found in Duluth and about 35 miles northeast of Atlanta.

Cult followers starved to meet Jesus and death toll keeps climbing, Kenya cops say

Womans toes grew back because of prayer, Missouri pastor says. Website wants proof

Pastor ran theft ring that stole at least $1.4M from Home Depot, Florida officials say

Youth pastor filmed kids bathing at Texas church, feds say. Hes going to prison
Tashi Choepel's daughter Rinchen Dolma prepares to milk in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Wang Jingyi)

Tashi Choepel grazes in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

Horses are seen in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

Tashi Choepel grazes in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

Yaks are seen in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Wang Jingyi)

Tashi Choepel's wife Dougekyi (R) arranges clothes for her daughter in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

Tashi Choepel's daughter Rinchen Dolma (R) talks with her mother in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Wang Jingyi)

Tashi Choepel's wife Dougekyi picks cattle droppings in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Zhang Long)

Tashi Choepel's wife Dougekyi makes butter in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Zhang Long)

Tashi Choepel's daughter Rinchen Dolma grazes in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Zhang Long)

Tashi Choepel's wife Dougekyi grazes in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

Tashi Choepel's daughter Rinchen Dolma prepares to milk in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Zhang Long)

Tashi Choepel grazes in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Wang Jingyi)

Tashi Choepel grazes in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Zhang Long)

Tashi Choepel's daughter Rinchen Dolma milks in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Zhang Long)

Tashi Choepel's wife Dougekyi takes care of a horse in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Zhang Long)

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen grazes in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Wang Jingyi)

Tashi Choepel's wife Dougekyi (L) prepares to milk in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

Tashi Choepel grazes in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

Tashi Choepel's family pose for a photo in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

Tashi Choepel's daughter Rinchen Dolma (L) and her cousin prepare to milk in Duosong Village, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, Aug. 17, 2023.

Shepherd Tashi Choepel, 41 years old, lives with his wife, son and daughter in Duosong Village in the center of the Hequ Grassland, which is located along the Yellow River bordering northwest China's Qinghai and Gansu provinces and southwest China's Sichuan Province.

He raises over 300 cattle and 400 plus sheep in his pasturage. His wife Dougekyi and daughter Rinchen Dolma milk them after breakfast everyday. The milk can bring about 300 yuan (about 41.3 U.S. dollars) per day for the family when the production and market are fine.

The family will move to their winter pasturage in October. When his wife milks, Tashi Choepel will graze on horse or on motorcycle. With stable public order, he has no need to worry about the stealing of his livestock.

His major problem comes with the wolves as the ecological environment improves a lot. With years of grazing experience, he can feel whether there are wolves near the sheep. If not, he will go home for dinner at noon, Otherwise, he will eat some dry food and keeps an eye on the sheep.

Tashi Choepel's son Sonam Gyeltsen, 20 years old, studies in a school in Huangnan prefecture of Qinghai and wants to be a teacher in the future. His daughter Rinchen Dolma, 18 years old, studies at a high school now and wants to go to college in Chengdu of southwest Sichuan Province in the future. During the summer vacation, both of them will help with the grazing. Tashi Choepel is satisfied with his life now and respects the wills of his children. (Xinhua/Zhang Long)
Vice President Kamala Harris delivers remarks on the impact of initiatives from the Biden-Harris Administration that are dedicated to advancing opportunity for Tribal nations and communities at the Gila Crossing Community School on July 6, 2023.

Vice President Kamala Harris will speak at Northern Arizona University in October as part of her "Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour."

The university is one of seven campuses that Harris will visit on the junket, which was announced by the White House last week. Her visit is scheduled for Oct. 17 and will be her last stop of the month-long tour.

She will discuss "key issues that disproportionately impact young people across the country," according to the White House. Those include abortion, guns, climate change, voting rights, LGBTQ+ issues and book bans, per a White House statement.

This generation is critical to the urgent issues that are at stake right now for our future, Harris said in a statement. It is young leaders throughout America who know what the solutions look like and are organizing in their communities to make them a reality. My message to students is clear: We are counting on you, we need you, you are everything.

Other stops on the tour will include Hampton University, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Reading Area Community College, Morehouse College, University of WisconsinMadison and College of Southern Nevada. Nearly all of those schools are designated as historically Black colleges and universities or Hispanic-serving institutions.

A spokesperson for NAU declined to comment on the vice president's visit and referred inquiries to the White House.

Sasha Hupka covers higher education for The Arizona Republic. Do you have a tip on Arizona's universities, community colleges or trade schools? Reach her at sasha.hupka@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @SashaHupka. Follow her on Instagram or Threads: @sashahupkasnaps.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Vice President Kamala Harris to speak at Northern Arizona University
Richard "Alex" Murdaugh is back in front of a judge in South Carolina Thursday.

Murdaugh was in front of Judge Clifton Newman once again in Beaufort County General Sessions Court at 9 a.m. and he wasn't alone. Two of his alleged co-conspirators and accomplices, former Beaufort attorney Cory H. Fleming and former Hampton bank CEO Russell L. Laffitte, join him.

This is the first time Murdaugh has been in a courtroom since security led him away to state prison following his March 2023 double murder conviction.

Here's why Murdaugh, Fleming and Laffitte are once again in a South Carolina courtroom and more updates from inside the courthouse.

Why is Alex Murdaugh in court today? Cory Fleming? Russell Laffitte?

Fleming will be sentenced for his state crimes, and it's possible that court dates may be set to try Murdaugh and Laffitte for their alleged state financial crimes.

Judge Clifton Newman presides over a Murdaugh case once again

Judge Newman is presiding over all of the S.C. State Grand Jury cases involving Murdaugh's more than 100 financial and drug-related crimes.

The last time Murdaugh and Newman saw each other was when Murdaugh was sentenced to two life sentences for murdering his wife and child.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Watch live stream inside Alex Murdaugh's latest case in SC court
Fall in Northeast Ohio wouldn't be the same without the golden-yellow color of beech trees' oblong shaped leaves. But an invasive pest is imperiling the state's beech population, impacting saplings and seedlings the most, killing them within a few years and changing the ecology of the forests.

Rob Curtis, Summit Metro Parks supervisor of ecological resources, talks about the beeches infected with beech leaf disease on the Indian Spring Trail in Munroe Falls Metro Park.

The beech tree  present in all 88 counties  plays an important role in Ohio's forests, serving as a food source and even a home for a vast array of wildlife. According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, beech leaf disease is present in at least a dozen counties in Northeast Ohio, including the Greater Akron area.

Since being discovered in Northeast Ohio in 2012, the disease has spread to 12 other U.S. states and Canadian provinces as well.

A microscopic, wormlike nematode damages the leaf tissue of beech trees, making them weak and vulnerable to disease, eventually killing them. Thousands of the nematodes infect the buds of the trees, wreaking havoc on foliage developing during winter. When the leaves unfold from the buds in springtime, the damage becomes apparent.

"We've just seen these beautiful, lush, important beech trees in our forest succumb to this devastating impact and mortality event," said Cleveland Metroparks' Senior Conservation Science Manager in Natural Resources Constance Hausman.

Trees infected with the blight can be spotted by the patterns on the leaves.

Rob Curtis, Summit Metro Parks supervisor of ecological resources, shows a leaf from a young beech tree infected with beech leaf disease on the Indian Spring trail in Munroe Falls Metro Park. The dark green area at the tip and the curling leaf are signs of the infection.

"Backlit by the sunshine, said Hausman, you can easily see these dark interveinal banding patterns." It's easily noticeable on smaller trees that are closer to eye level. They look leathery and chewed through.

History and spread

The disease was first detected in 2012 in Lake County, and in the Cleveland Metroparks system in 2014. In 2017, it was found in the Summit Metro Parks and the Medina County Park District.

As of last year, Medina County Park District found beech leaf disease on half of its properties. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is similarly affected.

It joins a series of landscape-changing blights that have hit Ohio's trees.

Dutch elm disease, chestnut blight and the emerald ash borer have all damaged the state's forests. The loss of forest diversity means that forests are less resilient in the face of invasive pests.

Rob Curtis, Summit County Metro Parks supervisor of ecological resources, said beach leaf disease is present throughout the park district, but its still in an early stage of progression. Between 6% and 10% of forest trees within lands managed by the Summit Metro Parks are American Beech.

Akrons Park Maintenance Superintendent Jon Malish said the city doesnt have many beech trees making up its canopy, which is comprised of 163 city parks and 55,000 street trees. As a result, beech leaf disease isnt a major concern for Akron.

Hausman is unaware of a single unaffected beech in the Cleveland Metroparks.

All is not lost, however. Work is underway to find a way to combat beech leaf disease.

Searching for a treatment

Starting around 2017, the Davey Institute and Cleveland Metroparks teamed up to begin piloting treating infected beech trees with something called polyphosphite 30  a potassium fertilizer  twice a year, applied in a way to avoid collateral damage to other species as much as possible.

Dan Herms, vice president of research and development at The Davey Tree Expert Companys Davey Institute, said phosphites are known to activate plants natural defenses, though the mechanism by which this occurs isnt thoroughly understood.

There's been a noticeable difference between untreated and treated trees since implementing the remedy, but treatment effects are minimal so far. Large-scale forest management strategies haven't been implemented.

"Within the first year to two years, we see significant retention of canopy cover on our treated trees," Hausman said. That means canopy cover with asymptomatic leaves or less severe symptoms and less die-back, with fewer nematodes present in the treated trees as quantified by the Davey Institute.

Cleveland Metroparks began working with Bartlett Tree Experts in 2019, and again in 2021, to investigate the viability of treating beech leaf disease with insecticides, much the same way that ash trees are treated against the emerald ash borer, another invasive species. Those applications don't initially appear as promising as the fertilizer application, but it's still early.

Treatment vs. natural selection

David Burke, vice president for science and conservation and lead beech leaf disease researcher at Holden Arboretum in Lake County, said treating infected trees in a forest setting is impractical because of how many there are.

Treatment is important for people with trees in their yard, or trees in a city park. The best approach is finding resistant trees and using them for reforestation, he said.

Summit Metro Parks is relying on the natural selection process. Treatment of trees isnt a good long-term strategy but serves well to buy time to find other solutions, Curtis said.

If we treat trees to kill the nematode, not only are we probably going to be killing a lot of native organisms, but were probably going to be thwarting the natural selective process because were going to be promoting a seed source and a pollen source of a tree that may be susceptible to disease, Curtis said. We d rather the trees that are able to reproduce be the ones that are resistant to the disease and then produce offspring that are potentially resistant.

Curtis said he doesnt think that beech leaf disease will wipe out the beech population entirely. Without beech trees, the population of the nematode will bottom out. Eventually, a balance will form between the trees and the worm. He sees the natural selection process as the best way for the species to recover.

What's next?

The how and why of the spread of beech leaf disease is a puzzle that researchers are racing to find.

Last year, Holden Arboretum researchers found a new way to test for beech leaf disease.

Hausman said people can help by reporting instances of infected trees using an app called Tree Health Survey that was created jointly by Cleveland Metroparks and a professor and graduate students from Kent State University, with funding from the U.S. Forest Service.

There is a user manual for the app provided by Cleveland Metroparks on its website. The app can be found on Google Play or Apple's App Store.

Burke cautions people against simply cutting down their beech trees to try to prevent the disease from spreading. If it looks healthy, he said, it could be resistant. People made that mistake years ago, cutting down chestnut trees when chestnut blight appeared.

The best approach is to sort of let nature take its course and assume there may be some resistance there, Burke said.

Contact reporter Derek Kreider at DKreider@Gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: What's plaguing Ohio's beech trees? A look into beech leaf disease
Wife of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, Emma Coronel, and attorney Michelle Gelernt exit after speaking to the press in 2017. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

The wife of drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman was released from prison this week, according to reports.

The Justice Department said Emma Coronel Aispuro helped plot her husband's prison escape in 2015.

The former beauty queen has stood by her husband since she married him on her 18th birthday.

The wife of Mexican drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman was released from prison on Wednesday after serving less than two years of a three-year sentence after pleading guilty to of aiding her husband in his multibillion-dollar criminal scheme.

Emma Coronel Aispuro, 34, was released from a residential re-entry facility in Long Beach, California, The New York Times reported this week. She had previously been in custody at a federal prison in Texas but was moved to the halfway house earlier this year, according to The Los Angeles Times.

Coronel Aispuro, who is a dual citizen of the US and Mexico, was sentenced to three years in prison in November 2021 after she pleaded guilty to multiple federal crimes, including helping Guzman smuggle drugs across the US border and helping him escape custody in 2015. Prosecutors alleged she was "engaged in planning yet another prison escape" before her husband was extradited to the US in 2017.

The federal trial against the infamous Mexican drug lord and escape artist Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman ended in 2019 when he was sentenced to life in prison plus 30 years  and the kingpin's former beauty queen wife was by his side through it all.

Guzman pleaded not guilty to drug trafficking charges connected to claims that he built a multi-billion-dollar fortune by smuggling cocaine and other drugs across the Mexico-US border.

After years on the run, Guzman was extradited to the United States in 2017 and was held in solitary confinement in a high-security prison as he awaited trial, The Associated Press reported. He is now serving his life sentence.

As a teenager, Emma Coronel Aispuro was crowned the local Coffee and Guava Queen in rural Sinaloa, Mexico, where Guzman once led the notorious Sinaloa Cartel.

Emma Coronel as a beauty queen in 2008. Screen grab/Univision

Source: New York Post

Coronel Aispuro married Guzman on her 18th birthday.

Emma Coronel, center, the wife of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman leaves Brooklyn Federal court after opening arguments in the trial of the Mexican drug lord. AP Photo/Mary Altaffer

Coronel Aispuro met Guzman, who is more than 30 years her senior, at a party organized by her father, Ines Coronel Barreras, according to The New York Post.

Coronel Barreras is reportedly a member of Guzman's drug empire, the Sinaloa Cartel.

The 29-year-old former beauty queen was born just outside San Francisco while her Mexican mother was visiting relatives.

Emma Coronel, center, the wife of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman leaves Brooklyn Federal court after opening arguments in her husband's trial. AP Photo/Mary Altaffer

Source: New York Post

Guzman has been jailed for most of his marriage to Coronel Aispuro.

Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman is escorted by soldiers during a presentation at the hangar belonging to the office of the Attorney General in Mexico City, Mexico. REUTERS/Edgard Garrido

Guzman was arrested in 2014 after 14 years on the run following an escape from a Mexican prison, according to The Associated Press.

He escaped again in July 2015, and was recaptured in 2016. Guzman was then extradited to the United States in January 2017.

Coronel Aispuro and Guzman's twin daughters were born in 2011.

Emma Coronel, right, wife of Mexican drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman leaves federal court in the Brooklyn borough of New York with her daughters. AP Photo/Mary Altaffer

Guzman urged Coronel Aispuro to fly to the United States to give birth, according to The New York Post, so they would be US citizens.

When her daughters were born in Lancaster, California, Coronel Aispuro left Guzman's name off the birth certificate.

Emma Coronel, wife of Mexican drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, pictured with her daughters. AP Photo/Mary Altaffer

Source: My San Antonio

Coronel Aispuro flew to New York to attend the first day of Guzman's trial in 2018.

Emma Coronel Aispuro, the wife of Joaquin Guzman, the Mexican drug lord known as "El Chapo," arrives at the Brooklyn Federal Courthouse in New York. REUTERS/Mike Segar

She was spotted taking off her translator headset as prosecutors outlined the charges against Guzman, according to The New York Post.

Coronel waved and smiled at Guzman in court at the start of his trial, but wasn't allowed to give him a hug.

Emma Coronel, the wife of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, arrives for his trial in Brooklyn federal court. AP Photo/Mark Lennihan

Guzman had requested that Coronel Aispuro be allowed to hug him before opening arguments during his drug trafficking trial, which started on November 13, according to NBC News.

He had asked for a "brief momentary greeting to include perhaps an embrace," but was denied by the judge.

Still, Coronel Aispuro greeted him with a smile and a wave, The New York Post reported.

It is believed Coronel Aispuro was well aware of Guzman's status as a drug kingpin.

Emma Coronel Aispuro and attorney Michelle Gelernt exit after speaking to the press in 2017. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

Source: The Daily Beast

Coronel Aispuro feared for Guzman's life after he was captured by Mexican authorities in 2016.

Coronel Aispuro talks with reporters as she leaves Brooklyn federal court in 2017. AP Photo/Elizabeth Williams

Source: BBC

In her first public interview in 2016, Coronel Aispuro defended her husband and said Guzman wasn't violent.

Emma Coronel Aispuro breaks her silence on Telemundo. in 2016. Telemundo

Source: Business Insider

Photos of Coronel Aispuro flaunting her wealth have appeared on Instagram  but she said she doesn't run social media accounts.

Emma Coronel Aispuro, flanked by her husband's defense lawyers, Eduardo Balarezo, left, and William Purpura, as she speaks with reporters. AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey

"I want to clarify that I don't have any social media sites and that I am not the one who is posting those pages," she wrote in her letter to the Mexican press, according to The New York Post.

She added: "I never wanted to be in a situation to have my life exposed. I am not interested in exposing my life in front of millions of people who I don't know."

Coronel Aispuro voiced concern over Guzman's health ahead of his drug trafficking trial.

Emma Coronel outside court. AP Photo/Mary Altaffer

In April 2018, Coronel Aispuro said she was concerned for his health and that she hadn't spoken to Guzman in 15 months.

The 31-year-old mother of two was arrested February 22, 2021 on international drug trafficking charges.

In this July 17, 2019 file photo, Emma Coronel Aispuro, wife of Mexican drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, leaves Brooklyn federal court in New York, following Guzman's sentencing. AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, File

Coronel Aispuro was arrested at Dulles Airport in February 2021. She was charged with participating in conspiracy to distribute cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and marijuana for importation into the US, the Justice Department said.

The DOJ also alleged she conspired with others to assist her husband in his 2015 escape from a Mexican prison. When he was re-arrested in 2016, the Justice Department said Coronel Aispuro helped plan yet another prison escape before Guzman was extradited to the US in 2017.

Coronel Aispuro struck a plea deal with prosecutors and agreed to turn over $1.5 million in illegal funds from her husband's work.

Emma Coronel Aispuro, wife of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, is escorted by security as she leaves federal court, July 17, 2019 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images

She confessed to helping Guzman move hundreds of kilograms of cocaine, heroin, and marijuana into the US, but was ultimately sentenced to just three years.

Prosecutors said Coronel Aispuro was not the brains behind the operation, calling her a cog in the large wheel of her husband's criminal operations, The New York Times reported.

She served about 18 months in a federal prison in Texas before being moved to a halfway-house in California in 2023, according to The Los Angeles Times.

This photo provided by the Alexandria Adult Detention Center shows Emma Coronel Aispuro. The wife of Mexican drug kingpin Joaquin El Chapo Guzman has been released from federal custody after completing a three-year sentence for helping him run his multibillion-dollar criminal empire. Alexandria Adult Detention Center via AP, File

Read the original article on Insider
Yakima Police Department officers stand outside a cordoned-off area of West Arlington Avenue where a shooting took place in Yakima, Wash., on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023.
Firefighters work to put out a hotspot on the South Slope Fire in the Yakima River Canyon Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023. The fire was one of two burning in the canyon.
HAVANA, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- The upcoming Group of 77 plus China (G77+China) Summit Havana this Friday and Saturday will tackle core development issues, while the Cuban capital is geared up to receive delegations from over 100 countries.

"The summit aims to evaluate and debate the main challenges and core issues of the development of the nations of the South," Cuban Foreign Affairs Minister Bruno Rodriguez said at a press conference on Wednesday.

"We hope that the upcoming summit in Havana strengthens the voice of the Group of 77 and China," he said, adding that "the road to development is intrinsically related to science, technology, and innovation."

Li Xi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, will attend the summit as the special representative of Chinese President Xi Jinping, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Held under the banner "Current development challenges: the role of science, technology and innovation," the summit is set to issue a final declaration that will include the purposes and principles of the bloc and address the needs of developing countries, said Rodriguez.

The declaration will highlight developing nations' "right to development amid an increasingly exclusive, inequitable, unjust and plundering international order," he pointed out.

Jose Ramon Cabanas, director of the International Policy Research Center of Cuba, told Xinhua that the summit will demonstrate the consensus reached by G77+China member states.

"This summit is taking place in a critical moment in history in the middle of a post-pandemic period," he said, stressing the importance of cooperation and solidarity.

For his part, Cuban expert Ramon Pichs said that the G77+China Summit will be essential to address pressing topics like climate emergencies.

"For developing countries, for G77+China and Cuba, the moment to act in regards to climate change is now," he said, calling the issue a massive challenge for the development of countries.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will speak at the summit's opening, together with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel.

Cuba took on the rotating presidency of the G77 plus China this January.

On Wednesday, traffic diversion measures were implemented in some of Havana's main avenues and streets ahead of the summit. Havana's Palace of Conventions and Pabexpo have been embellished to receive presidents, prime ministers and high-ranking officials who will visit the Cuban capital in the coming days, according to Cuban News Agency ACN.

Meanwhile, billboards that read "Making true the right to development" have been displayed citywide. Airport operations at Havana's Jose Marti International Airport have been re-adjusted to facilitate the arrival of foreign delegations, Cuba's civil aviation authorities said.

"We will give a warm welcome to all delegations in attendance. Cuba is an excellent place to talk about urgent topics affecting humankind," said taxi driver Raul Martinez. 
BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The Work Safety Committee of China's State Council has decided to supervise the investigation into a gas spurt incident in the city of Ordos in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the Ministry of Emergency Management said on Thursday.

On Sept. 7, a high-pressure gas spurt occurred at a workshop of Yiding Ecological Agriculture Development Co., Ltd. in an industrial park in Hangjin Banner, killing 10 people and injuring three others. 
De ce sa pui o frunza de dafin pe caloriferul tau iarna. Trucul care te va uimi

Pe masura ce temperaturile scad si, inevitabil, se porneste incalzirea, este o idee buna sa pui o frunza de dafin pe caloriferele tale. Afla, din randurile de mai jos, care este motivul pentru care ar trebui sa apelezi la acest truc. Vei [citeste mai departe]
Stiri pe aceeasi tema

- Romania will become the largest gas producer in Europe, with the exploitation of gas from the Black Sea, and all these investments must be protected and there should be a predictable climate for investors, the Minister of Energy, Sebastian Burduja, declared in a video message at the Euro-Atlantic Forum

- SMap heads presents information on drone fragments discovered in Romania at NATO Military Committee conferenceThe Chief of the Defense Staff (SMAp), General Daniel Petrescu, presented at the NATO Military Committee conference information regarding the drone fragments discovered on Romania's territory,

- Publisind trade unions to stage protests against austerity measuresThe Publisind trade union federation says it will stage protests against expected austerity measures that include pay and job cuts, layoffs, tax increases, suspension of certain rights, cancellation of positions, "a deliberate, inexplicable

- Gov't borrows RON 550.5 million on Thursday off banksThe Ministry of Finance (MF) on Thursday borrowed RON 550.5 million off banks in an issue of benchmark bonds of a residual maturity of 38 months and an average yield of 6.44% per annum, according to data published by the National Bank of Romania

- Energy is a "key area" and "we cannot allow anyone to blackmail us", Foreign Affairs minister Luminita Odobescu said on Thursday during a debate at the Three Seas Initiative (3SI) Business Forum.Discussions at the forum focus on the three areas of cooperation in the region, namely Energy, Transport

- Buzoianul Ionut Marin va participa la Festivalul International de Arta Contemporana de la Sibiu (SCAF), in perioada 16-30 septembrie. Este cel mai mare eveniment cultural-diplomatic din Romania, evenimentul fiind aflat sub patronajul Ministerului Afacerilor Externe si organizat de Muzeul National

- President Klaus Iohannis signed on Thursday decrees on the establishment of two new consulates general of Romania in Germany, in Frankfurt am Main and Hamburg.Romania also has three consulates general in Germany, in Bonn, Munich and Stuttgart, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

- Aeroitalia to fly on new route from Baneasa Airport, as of September 16A new air route between Romania and Italy will be available from September 16 from Baneasa - Aurel Vlaicu Airport in Bucharest, Aeroitalia announced in a press release on Friday, told Agerpres. According to the quoted source,
Hungary offers much more than just the traditional sights to expats with a desire for adventures. If youre up for venturing off the beaten path, daring options include spelunking, ballooning over Balaton and indoor skydiving - read on to find out about four more activities for thrill-seekers.

1. Ballooning over Lake Balaton

Early-evening flights over Balaton are still taking place into late October, lifting off late afternoon from Heviz, depending on the weather, and taking in sunset.

Trips last three to four hours and include a glass of local champagne. More details here.



2. Pilot an aircraft in Budapest

At Tokol Airport near Budapest, you can learn how to become an airline pilot thanks to an experienced crew who show you the ropes.

Sit in the cockpit of a real-life simulator and feel what its like to take off with the fate of hundreds of passengers in your hands! More details here.



3. Spelunking - AKA Caving in Aggtelek

Delve into the mesmerising underground world of Aggtelek National Park by embarking on a caving expedition that takes you through intricate passageways, past awe-inspiring stalactites and along underground rivers.

From within the national park, visitors can explore the primary channel over a distance of 7 km. It is the largest and most majestic cave in Hungary More details here.



4. Glider Joy Riding Over Budapest

At weekends between late April and October, the MAV Flying Club offers glider flights from Farkashegy Airfield near Budapest.

Thrill-seekers sit in the front of a K7 or PW6 to take in panoramic views of the Buda hills and the city of Budapest beyond. Check before you fly  rides are seriously weather-dependent. More details here.



5. Indoor Skydiving in Budapest

The Skyward Wind Tunnel near Szent Imre ter on Csepel island is where you can fly like a superhero without leaving Budapest, safe for children, seniors and everyone in between.

You can float on your own or fly in a group to freefall safely as an individual or communally with friends and colleagues. More details here.



6. Mine-Diving in Budapest

A labyrinth of limestone passages meanders under east Pest. Winemakers once used them as cellars, before the Dreher Brewery took it over.

During the war, a hidden plane engine factory operated here. Nowadays some of the rooms are still underwater  you can dive in cold but clear depths. More details here.



7. Skydiving Over the Danube

Every weekend from May to October, experienced skydivers take out thrill-seekers for a tandem jump out of an aeroplane 3,500-4,000 metres up.

Flights take off from Dunaujvaros, south of Budapest, and descend over the Danube. More details here.



Words by Peterjon Cresswell for Xpatloop.com

Peterjon has been researching the byways of Budapest for 30 years, extending his expertise across Europe to produce guidebooks for Time Out and his own website liberoguide.com
COPENHAGEN, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Visiting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen officially gave the name "Laura Maersk" to the world's first methanol-powered container ship on Thursday in Copenhagen, hailing its owner "a pioneer, shaping the economy of the future."

"Laura" belongs to the fleet of Danish-owned shipping consortium A.P. Moller-Maersk (Maersk). According to Maersk, the container, with 2,100 TEU (20-foot equivalent unit), is the first ship of its kind to sail on green methanol, reducing polluting environmental emissions by at least 65 percent. It is also able to use ordinary bunker oil.

"The ship we are celebrating today is a decisive first step towards a solution for the shipping industry, but also a step that can encourage and outline a way forward for other sectors where emissions are difficult to reduce," Maersk CEO Vincent Clerc said at a ceremony.

Maersk has announced plans for 20 more methanol-powered ships. The fleet includes six mid-sized 9,000 TEU container vessels with dual-fuel engines capable of operating on green methanol, which will be built by China's Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Group and delivered between 2026 and 2027.

Additionally, Maersk further enhanced its commitment to green methanol fuel by signing a memorandum of understanding with Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG) about a methanol marine fuel project in March 2023.

According to Maersk, it will work with the Port of Shanghai to carry out services of vessel-to-vessel bunkering and fuel tank storage in the near future. In the long run, "the parties will explore how to form an all-round energy strategic partnership to promote the extension from bunkering services to the upstream of the green methanol industry chain," the company said in a press release. 
As an international award-winning SEO Expert at CRS Budapest, I have been managing and delivering successful SEO projects for international clients in various industries and markets for over 15 years.

My mission is to help businesses grow and reach their target audiences online by optimising their websites, content and link-building campaigns for search engines and user experience. In recent years, many marketing managers have asked me how they can improve their website traffic at the lowest-possible cost. Paid-for online media being somewhat expensive, the best alternative is SEO.



Many have heard about it, but few really understand how it works and how tremendous impact it can have on generating revenue as well as brand awareness. For further explanation, please read this article.



Unlocking the Power of SEO: A long-term investment for marketing managers in large corporations

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) stands as a cornerstone strategy, yet its true value is often misunderstood by marketing managers in large corporations. Far too frequently, SEO is viewed as an immediate cost, rather than the enduring, long-term investment that it truly represents. In this article, we aim to explain the importance of SEO as a strategic asset and help marketing managers grasp its inherent value in driving sustainable growth and brand success.



Defining SEO

First, lets establish a clear definition of SEO for those who may be less familiar. SEO is a multifaceted approach that enhances a websites visibility and ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs) such as Google, Bing and Yahoo. It encompasses a variety of techniques and best practices, including keyword optimisation, content creation, technical site improvements, link building and more.



The ultimate goal of SEO is to organically attract and engage a targeted audience, resulting in increased website traffic, improved brand awareness and higher conversion rates.



Immediate vs long-term results

One of the common misconceptions among marketing managers is the belief that SEO should yield instant results, akin to paid advertising campaigns. However, SEO operates on an entirely different timescale. Unlike pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, where results can be generated quickly but are directly tied to ad spend, SEO is a gradual process that builds authority and trust with search engines over time.



SEO efforts may not deliver immediate spikes in website traffic or conversions, but they lay the foundation for sustainable growth. The initial stages of SEO focus on optimising website structure, content quality and technical elements  all essential for long-term success. As search engines recognise a website's authority and relevance, rankings improve, and organic traffic gains momentum. This gradual ascent may take several months, but the enduring benefits are well worth the investment.



The value of organic traffic

Understanding the true value of organic traffic is pivotal for marketing managers. Unlike paid advertising, which ceases to deliver results the moment the campaign ends, the traffic generated through SEO is a perpetual source of potential customers. Consider this: According to a survey by BrightEdge, organic searches drive more than 53% of all website traffic. This statistic alone underscores the enduring significance of SEO in your marketing strategy.



Organic traffic brings high-quality, targeted visitors to your website, who are actively seeking the products or services you offer. They are more likely to engage with your content, stay longer on your site, and convert into customers. Over time, this consistent influx of organic traffic translates into substantial cost savings when compared to continually funding paid advertising efforts.



Building brand authority

Another critical aspect of SEO is its role in building brand authority and credibility. When your website consistently appears at the top of search results for relevant queries, it instils trust in potential customers. They perceive your brand as a reputable source of information or solutions.



A strong online presence, bolstered by SEO efforts, contributes to positive brand perception, fosters customer loyalty and positions your corporation as an industry leader. While this may not yield an instant return on investment (ROI), it's a long-term investment in brand equity that pays dividends over time.



Adaptation to algorithm changes

Search engines regularly update their algorithms to provide more relevant and valuable results to users. This means that SEO is an ongoing process that requires adaptability. What worked a year ago may not be as effective today. Marketing managers must embrace the dynamic nature of SEO and allocate resources for continuous optimisation and monitoring.



Investing in an experienced SEO team or partnering with a reputable agency ensures that your SEO strategy evolves with the changing digital landscape. This adaptability is essential for maintaining and improving your rankings and sustaining long-term success.



The competitive advantage

In the highly competitive digital marketplace, corporations that invest in SEO gain a significant advantage. SEO allows you to position your brand ahead of competitors, capturing a larger share of the market. It's not just about keeping up with the competition; it's about surpassing them and maintaining that lead over the long term.



Conclusion

In summary, Search Engine Optimization is not a short-term cost; it is a profound, long-term investment with far-reaching implications for the success and sustainability of a corporation's digital presence. Marketing managers in large corporations must recognise the enduring value of SEO in driving organic traffic, building brand authority and staying competitive in the digital age.



While it may take time to see the full fruits of SEO labour, the benefits it delivers in terms of organic traffic, cost savings, brand credibility and competitive positioning far outweigh any short-term gains from alternative marketing strategies. Embracing SEO as an essential element of your corporate marketing strategy is a strategic move that positions your brand for long-lasting success in the ever-evolving digital landscape.



For more information on how we can help you grow your business, please contact me at Linkedin Miklos Roth SEO Expert.



Click here to read his interview on Xpatloop.com
New Delhi: As Madhya Pradesh gears up for the upcoming elections, the state government has announced a good news for the LPG Customers in the state. As per a new government order LPG gas connection holders who are beneficiaries of the Ujjwala Yojana and Ladli Behna Yojana are set to enjoy a significant benefit on domestic gas cylinders.

LPG Cylinder At Just Rs 450 In Poll-Bound MP

Starting from September 1, LPG gas connection holders will be able to procure a gas cylinder for an incredibly affordable price of just Rs 450, the poll-bound MP state government has announced. Furthermore, the outstanding amount for the gas cylinder will be directly credited to the accounts of the Ladli Behna beneficiaries.

"Eligible consumers will need to purchase refills from the oil company at the market rate. Any reduction in the subsidy provided by the government of India and the market rate determined by the state government will be transferred to the bank accounts of eligible consumers," the government order said.

Meanwhile, if there is a change in the market rate for refills of domestic LPG bottle, the state subsidy will also be adjusted accordingly, the order read.

Also, as per the government order, consumers who already have an LPG gas connection, will be registered under Ladli Behna Yojana portal.

"They may also be beneficiaries under Ujjwala Yojana. The registration process will take place at all centers designated for Ladli Bahana Yojana," it said.

Ladli Bahana Yojana Registration Process

To complete the registration process, individuals will need to provide their gas connection consumer number and LPG connection ID. The Ladli Bahana Yojana registration ID will be automatically generated within this scheme, utilizing data collected from all oil companies to identify eligible beneficiaries.

Starting from September 25, 2023, details of registered beneficiaries will be accessible on the online portal. These records will be routinely updated to ensure accuracy. Registered beneficiaries can conveniently verify this information on the portal starting September 25, using their gas consumer number, gas connection ID, and Ladli Behna ID for easy access and transparency.

Extension Of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana

In a significant announcement yesterday, the The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the extension of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) for release of 75 lakh LPG connections over three years from Financial Year 2023-24 to 2025-26, said an official release.

The total financial implication will be Rs.1650 crore for per connection at following rates:

14.2 kg Single Bottle Connection  Rs.2200 per connection

5 kg Double Bottle Connection  Rs.2200 per connection

5 kg Single Bottle Connection  Rs.1300 per connection

As per the existing modalities of Ujjawala 2.0, the first refill and stove will also be provided free of cost to Ujjwala beneficiaries.

A targeted subsidy of Rs 200 per 14.2 kg LPG cylinder for upto 12 refills per year is being provided to PMUY consumers.
Srinagar: Security forces on Thursday carried out an airlift operation to transport the mortal remains of Colonel Manpreet Singh and Major Ashish Dhonack from the site of the encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district. The tragic incident occurred a day earlier when they, along with a Deputy Superintendent of Police, lost their lives during a confrontation with terrorists.

The bodies of Colonel Singh and Major Dhonack were transported from Kokernag to the Army's 92 Base Hospital in the Badamibagh Cantonment here, as reported by news agency PTI, citing officials.

Authorities have announced that high-ranking Army, police, and civil administration officials will pay their final respects to these brave officers before their mortal remains are sent to their respective hometowns for the last rites.

It's important to note that in the ongoing encounter in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district, a Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police also made the ultimate sacrifice. An Indian Army Colonel commanding a Rashtriya Rifles Unit, along with a Major and the DSP of Jammu and Kashmir Police, laid down their lives during this operation.

The firefight, which began on Wednesday, extended into Thursday. Addressing the situation, a Union Minister stated that restoring normal bilateral relations with Pakistan is contingent upon improved behaviour on their part.

The gallant security personnel who lost their lives in these encounters have been identified as Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonack, and DSP Humayun Bhat.

Union Minister V K Singh Calls For Global Isolation Of Pakistan

Meanwhile, in response to the loss of four soldiers, including two senior-ranking officers, in separate encounters with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister General (retd.) VK Singh strongly urged the international community to isolate Pakistan and intensify pressure on them to combat cross-border terrorism.

General VK Singh emphasized the need to address cross-border terrorism effectively and conveyed that unless Pakistan faces global isolation, it may continue to support and instigate terrorism. He stressed that Pakistan must understand that normal diplomatic ties can only be restored when they demonstrate responsible behaviour.

Two Terrorists Eliminated In Rajouri Encounter

During the ongoing encounter that commenced in the Narla area of Rajouri district on Tuesday, security forces successfully neutralized two terrorists. It was reported that they also recovered warlike materials and medicines with markings from Pakistan during a search operation on Wednesday evening.

Families Mourn The Loss Of Heroes; Tributes Flow In

At the age of thirty-four, Major Dhonack's family in Patiala grieves the loss of their only brother. His uncle shared that he had recently spoken to him on the phone and was expecting him to return home in October to relocate houses. Major Dhonack was honoured with the Sena Medal in August this year.

Tributes from across the nation poured in for these three brave soldiers. The Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor's office expressed its condolences and paid tribute to DySP Humayun Bhat, Col Manpreet Singh, and Major Ashish Dhonack for their indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice in combating terrorism in Anantnag. Congress president Malikarjun Kharge also conveyed deep sadness and solidarity, emphasizing India's unity against terrorism.
New Delhi: Union Minister VK Singh on Thursday said that we need to isolate Pakistan if India has to stop these terrorist attacks. The Ex-Army chief was reacting to the death of Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak and DSP Humayun Bhat who died during an encounter with terrorists in Jamuu and Kashmir's Anantnag on Wednesday.

"We have to think. Because unless we isolate Pakistan they will think it is business as normal...If we have to bring them under pressure, we have to isolate them. They need to know that no normal relations can be maintained unless you yourselves become normal," news agency ANI quoted Singh as saying.
NEW DELHI: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday expressed its strong disapproval of the Opposition's Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance's (INDIA) decision to blacklist 14 news anchors. Following the release of the list of 14 news anchors marked for a boycott by INDIA bloc member parties, the ruling BJP issued a press release denouncing the Opposition alliance as the "Ghamandiya" (arrogant) alliance and strongly condemning their actions against certain journalists.

Anil Baluni, the national media head of the BJP, stated in the press release, "By making such a highly regrettable decision, the 'Ghamandiya' alliance has once again unveiled its highly repressive, dictatorial, and negative mindset. The Bharatiya Janata Party vehemently criticizes the regrettable move taken by the I.N.D.I Alliance."

The statement emphasized the BJP's strong opposition to such a "derogatory mindset that obstructs freedom of expression." Drawing parallels with press censorship during the emergency era, the BJP's statement noted, "The actions of political parties within the 'Ghamandiya' alliance, boycotting certain journalists, harken back to the repressive Emergency period when the media was stifled and silenced. Today, the 'Ghamandiya' alliance seems to operate with the same Emergency-era mentality and hostility towards the media."

I.N.D.I Alliance giving direct threat to the media is like gagging the media for speaking the truth.



This also shows that the 'ghamandiya' alliance has no courage to face the truth.



The Bharatiya Janata Party severely criticises the unfortunate step of the I.N.D.I Alliance. pic.twitter.com/pfijp5Nlf0  BJP (@BJP4India) September 14, 2023

The statement argued that the I.N.D.I. alliance's direct threats against the media resemble an attempt to muzzle the truth and indicate the alliance's lack of courage to confront the facts. Furthermore, it insinuated that external pressure might be driving the "Ghamandiya" alliance to undermine Indian media's freedom of expression.

The statement affirmed that democracy prevails in the country, and no one should be allowed to suppress or curtail media freedom and rights.

"The Bharatiya Janata Party appeals to all media organizations and dedicated, honest journalists to vehemently oppose political parties with such derogatory ideologies and continue fulfilling their responsibilities to the nation and our society without fear or favour. The BJP also encourages all journalists to resist the dictatorial approach of the 'Ghamandiya' alliance and uphold the Indian ethos and principles deeply embedded in our democratic system."

Earlier today, the I.N.D.I. Alliance unveiled a list of 14 anchors, declaring that their alliance partners would not participate in programs hosted by them. The journalists affected by the alliance's boycott are Aditi Tyagi of Bharat Express, Aman Chopra of News 18, Amish Devgan of News 18, Anand Narasimhan of News 18, Arnab Goswami of Republic, Ashok Shrivastav of DD News, Chitra Tripathi of Aaj Tak, Gaurav Sawant of India Today, Navika Kumar of Times Now, Prachi Parashar of India TV, Rubika Liaquat of Bharat 24, Shiv Aroor of India Today, Sudhir Chaudhary of Aaj Tak, and Sushant Sinha. The list was released by senior Congress leader Pawan Khera.

             

             

                         pic.twitter.com/2xhxh2Hm9h  Pawan Khera (@Pawankhera) September 14, 2023

This move followed the Coordination Committee of the I.N.D.I A Bloc's decision in its initial meeting on September 13 to identify news anchors for a boycott by partner parties.

While the alliance has opted to boycott journalists and has already named the individuals on their blacklist, they have yet to make headway on the crucial issue of seat allocation. The 28-party alliance has not initiated concrete discussions on seat sharing for the upcoming elections, with parties like AAP and Congress asserting that they will not share seats in Punjab and Delhi. Alliance leaders have stated that seat allocation will be negotiated at the state level.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a visit to Bina in poll bound Madhya Pradesh on Thursday said that the INDI alliance is plotting to end Sanatan culture in India. PM Modi said that the opposition alliance have no leader or vision. "This INDI alliance doesn't have a leader...they have also decided on a hidden agenda to attack India's culture. The INDI alliance has come with a resolution to end 'Sanatan' culture," PM said while addressing a public rally in Madhya Pradesh's Bina.

PM Modi laid the foundation stone of projects worth more than Rs 50,700 crore including Petrochemical Complex' at Bina Refinery and ten new industrial projects across the state. Supporters in large numbers turned up to attend a roadshow held by Prime Minister Modi in Madhya Pradeshs Bina.

People were seen showering flowers on PM Modi as his vehicle moved during the roadshow. Madhya Pradesh is a poll-bound state that is scheduled to hold its Assembly Elections later this year. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan welcomed PM Modi on his visit to the state on Thursday.

Credit Of G20 Success Goes To 140 Cr Indians

PM Modi said "The credit for the success of the G20 summit goes to 140 crore Indians. This is evidence of the collective power of our country. The G20 delegates were impressed with the diversity and heritage of our country."

"It is important for the growth of a country or a state that the government runs with total transparency and corruption remains under check...There was a time when MP was identified as one of the laggard states. After independence, those who ruled in MP for the longest time, they didn't give it anything apart from corruption and crime," says Prime Minister Narendra Modi

PM Modi has laid the foundation stone of Bina Refinery Petrochemical Project in Sagar district. The prime minister will also lay the foundation stone of various industrial complexes of the state on the occasion.

PM also laid the foundation stone of ten projects namely Power and Renewable Energy Manufacturing Zone in Narmadapuram district; two IT parks in Indore; a Mega Industrial Park in Ratlam; and six new industrial areas across the state.

During the programme, the Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone of ten projects, namely the 'Power and Renewable Energy Manufacturing Zone' in Narmadapuram district; two IT parks in Indore; a Mega Industrial Park in Ratlam; and six new industrial areas across Madhya Pradesh. The Power and Renewable Energy Manufacturing Zone, Narmadapuram will be developed at a cost of more than Rs 460 crore and will be a step towards economic growth and employment generation in the region. The IT Park 3 and 4 in Indore will be built at a cost of about 550 crore, provide impetus to the IT and ITES sectors, and open new employment opportunities for the youth, a government release said.

Mega Industrial Park in Ratlam will be built at a cost of more than Rs 460 crore and is envisaged to become a major hub for important sectors like textiles, automobiles, and pharmaceuticals, among others. The park will provide connectivity to the Delhi-Mumbai Motorway and will provide a major boost to the economic development of the entire region, generating direct and indirect employment opportunities for the youth.

With the aim of promoting balanced regional development and uniform employment opportunities in the state, six new industrial areas will also be developed at Shajapur, Guna, Mauganj, Agar Malwa, Narmadapuram, and Maksi at a cumulative cost of about Rs 310 crore, the release added
New Delhi: Several INDIA bloc parties slammed the BJP on Thursday for holding "celebrations" to mark the success of the G20 Summit on a day security personnel were killed by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, with the Congress saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi cannot postpone receiving accolades no matter what happens. Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of 19 Rashtriya Rifles; Major Ashish Dhonack, and Deputy Superintendent Humayun Bhat were killed in the gunfight with terrorists in the Garol area of Anantnag district early Wednesday. An army jawan was also killed.

Addressing a press conference at the AICC headquarters here, Chairman of the Congress' Ex-Servicemen Department Col (retd) Rohit Chaudhary alleged the prime minister displayed "shameless insensitivity" towards the martyred officers and soldiers by going ahead with his "self-praising celebrations" at the BJP headquarters while the news of the incident was being flashed at the same time.

"While the country was shocked with grief as the news of the martyrdom of Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak and DSP Humayun Bhatt, flashed all over, the Prime Minister was busy getting himself showered with flowers at the BJP headquarters," he said. He asked why the PM did not stop the function and express solidarity with the country in general and the soldiers in particular.

The Army and the country were feeling hurt over such "shameful behaviour" of the prime minister who has otherwise always claims to be a nationalist, Chaudhary said.

The AICC Ex-Servicemen Department Chairman claimed that more than 30 terror incidents have occurred in Kashmir this year so far and this particular incident was a "deliberate ambush" where the officers and soldiers were apparently lured into action and then ambushed. He called for extra-caution, saying this was an election year and the country's enemies would be ready with their nefarious designs.

In a post on X, the Congress called the prime minister "insensitive" and shared juxtaposed videos of mourning family members of a deceased soldier and PM Modi being given a rousing welcome at the BJP headquarters on Wednesday evening following the successful G20 meeting under India's presidency.

Do we deserve such an insensitive Prime Minister? pic.twitter.com/dcvilaLbuD  Congress (@INCIndia) September 14, 2023

In a post in Hindi on X, Congress media and publicity department head Pawan Khera said that at a time when the sad news of the martyrdom of three army officers of army was coming, a "celebration was organised for Badshah" at the BJP headquarters. "No matter what happens, the Prime Minister cannot postpone receiving accolades," he said.

Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate said three army and police officers were martyred in an encounter in Kashmir. "It breaks my heart to see pictures of their small children. And here the celebration hasn't stopped? He had not stopped shooting even after the martyrdom of 40 brave men in Pulwama. There is unimaginable insensitivity," Shrinate said and shared pictures of the welcome at the BJP headquarters.

Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi also shared the video of the rousing welcome accorded to the PM at the BJP headquarters, and said: "This could have been postponed, expected more sensitivity, especially on a day when our security forces have fought a fierce fight with militants in Kashmir".

RJD leader Manoj Jha also slammed the BJP. "On a day when our Jawans were martyred, we were also watching celebrations at the BJP office. The nation was watching both visuals together," Jha said.

"At the time of the Pulwama attack, they had said they got to know about it late... But this time they knew everything since morning. The ruling party and the Prime Minister were celebrating..." Jha said.
Thiruvananthapuram: Amid rising concerns over the return of the Nipah virus in Kerala, the state government has strengthened measures to prevent the spread of the infection a day after two deaths from the same were confirmed Kozhikode district. Kerala reports another case of Nipah, govt forms 19 committees to monitor the outbreak. Meanwhile, the total number of active cases of the infection has gone up to three with the confirmation of one more positive case of Nipah in Kozhikode on Wednesday.

Health Minister Veena George while addressing a press conference on Wednesday, said, "So far, three samples have tested Nipah positive. We have started contact tracing. Of 706 contacts, 77 are in the high-risk category, 153 health workers are in the low-risk category," Veena George said.

She said that the Kerala government has formed 19 committees to monitor the outbreak of the Nipah virus in the state. "We have arranged a telemedicine facility. We have formulated 19 committees for monitoring the Nipah virus outbreak. No person who is in the high-risk category has any symptoms," Veena George said.

"Root maps of the deceased have been published. Those patients in the high-risk category are requested to remain inside their respective houses. If they have any symptoms, they can contact the call center," she said. She further said that if a person under isolation reports any symptoms, then he/she will be moved to the medical college.

"We have arranged a telemedicine facility. We have formulated 19 committees for monitoring the Nipah virus outbreak. No person who is in the high-risk category has any symptoms. We have 75 rooms for isolation in the medical college," she said.

Minister George said that 13 people who are on the contact list are admitted to the medical college and their health condition is stable. "Those who are in isolation can use the support of volunteers. Volunteers will be appointed by panchayats. More rooms will be set up in hospitals for isolation," she said.

Till the 24th of this month, if necessary the district collector can ban gatherings in Kozhikode district. The person who died due to Nipah on 20th August is the index case, said the Minister. A state-level control room has been opened in the office of the health directorate, and a State-level rapid response team held a meeting today, she added.
Indore: Following the tragic loss of four soldiers, including two senior-ranking officers, in separate encounters with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister General (retd.) VK Singh strongly urged the international community to isolate Pakistan and increase pressure on them to combat cross-border terrorism.

Notably, a Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police also made the ultimate sacrifice during the firefight with terrorists in the Valley. An Indian Army Colonel leading a Rashtriya Rifles Unit, accompanied by a Major and the DSP of Jammu and Kashmir Police, laid down their lives during an ongoing encounter in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district in Kashmir.

The skirmish, which began on Wednesday, continued into Thursday. During an interview with the news agency ANI on Thursday, the Union Minister emphasized that normal bilateral relations with Pakistan cannot be restored until Pakistan changes its behaviour.

"In light of cross-border terrorism, we must consider our approach. Unless we globally isolate Pakistan, they will continue to engage in acts of terror along the border. To apply pressure, we must persuade the international community to isolate them. They must understand that normal relations cannot resume until they mend their ways," added the former Army chief.

The courageous security personnel who made the supreme sacrifice in these encounters were identified as Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonack, and DSP Humayun Bhat.

Additionally, security forces successfully neutralized two terrorists in an encounter that was initiated in the Narla area of Rajouri district on Tuesday. During the encounter on Wednesday evening, security forces recovered warlike materials and medicines bearing markings from Pakistan.

In Patiala, the home of thirty-four-year-old Major Dhonack, three sisters grieve the loss of their only brother. Major Dhonack's uncle, whose nephew was awarded the Sena Medal in August this year, recalled their last conversation, mentioning that Major Dhonack had visited home one and a half months ago and was scheduled to return in October to relocate.

Tributes have poured in from across the country for the three soldiers. The J&K Lieutenant Governor's office expressed their condolences, stating, "Paid tributes to JKP's DySP Humayun Bhat, who laid down his life in an anti-terror operation in Anantnag. I salute the indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice of Col Manpreet Singh & Major Ashish Dhonack. The entire nation stands firmly with their families in this hour of grief."

Congress president Malikarjun Kharge also extended his condolences, saying, "Our brave Army personnel and a DSP have made the supreme sacrifice fighting terrorists in an encounter at Anantnag in Jammu and Kashmir. We are extremely saddened by their loss. Our deepest condolences to the families of our bravehearts." Kharge emphasized that India stands united against terrorism.
New Delhi: The sugar industry witnessed a significant boost on Thursday as authorities revised their projections for Maharashtra's sugar output in the crop year 20232024, pushing up stocks of sugar companies like Dalmia Bharat Sugar, Balrampur Chini Mills, Triveni Engineering, Dwarikesh Sugar.

News Agency IANS quoted market research analysts stating that the revised forecast, a 14% reduction, marked the lowest production in the region in the past four years.

Notably, Maharashtra contributes a substantial one-third of India's total sugar production. However, in the upcoming season commencing on October 1, 2023, it is expected to yield just 9 million metric tonnes of sugar, a decrease from the 10.5 million tonnes produced in 2022-23.

This reduction in sugar production has triggered expectations of rising sugar prices, both in domestic and international markets, which, in turn, can ignite further optimism in sugar stocks, IANS quoting Vaibhav Vidwani, a Research Analyst at Bonanza Portfolio wrote.

As the sugar industry looks forward to potentially higher prices, several sectoral indices closed in the green at the end of the trading day. Leading the way were Nifty PSU Bank and Nifty Metal, showing gains of 1.64% and 1.49%, respectively.

Among individual stocks, UPL, Hindalco, Mahindra and Mahindra, ONGC, and Divis Lab emerged as the top gainers on the Nifty index. Meanwhile, Asian Paints, HDFC Life, Coal India, Britannia, and LTIMindtree were among the stocks experiencing losses.
While trade with neighboring Azerbaijan might improve the lot of Armenians, it would remove their leaders raison detre, Azernews reports, citing an article in Politico by Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration.

Azernews presents the article:

When the United States and its Western allies are so distracted by the war in Ukraine, it poses a challenge for those of us elsewhere in the world. How do we ensure the conflicts we face, which are just as urgent and real, are fully understood in the Western corridors of power and the columns of newspapers?

Take the situation in Karabakh.

This region of Azerbaijan was occupied by neighboring Armenia for 30 years. And after a brutal war in the early 1990s, which saw close to 1 million Azerbaijanis ethnically cleansed from their land, occupying Armenian forces mined thousands of square miles of this territory, save for a small holdout at its center. There, the remaining community of ethnic Armenians in Azerbaijan were connected to Armenia via a single land route  the Lachin road.

This gray zone of lawlessness and land mines existed illegally  and unchallenged  until three years ago, when Azerbaijan took much of the territory of Karabakh in a 44-day conflict.

Legally, and morally, the citizens who live in what remains of this gray zone are citizens of Azerbaijan  even the current Armenian prime minister publicly acknowledges that Karabakh is Azerbaijans sovereign territory. And this also means that Azerbaijan has a duty of care to those who live there regardless of and  perhaps even more so given recent history  because of their ethnicity.

The Azerbaijan government has repeatedly offered to supply the Armenians of Karabakh with food, medicine and more via roads that provide closer and faster passage than Lachin. The land routes Azerbaijan offers are acknowledged as viable and usable by the European Union, the U.S. and the International Committee of the Red Cross, and just this week, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for the immediate and simultaneous opening of both corridors.

But what has been reported in the international media is something different.

The idea that solely Armenia should supply ethnic Armenians living in the neighboring country of Azerbaijan through a single monoethnic route is  we are encouraged to believe  somehow acceptable to the international community and media.

And we are told this is because this conflict is different to others, that Armenians cannot live side by side in the same country with Azerbaijanis because of our history. But both our past and present teach us this simply is not true.

Before the war of the 1990s, Azerbaijanis and ethnic Armenians lived together, side by side, in Karabakh in peace. Today, a 30,000-strong Jewish community lives in Azerbaijan. An evangelical Christian community is growing. Georgians, Russians, Ukrainians all make up todays multiethnic and multireligious country. This could, and should, apply to the Armenians of Karabakh as well.

There are, however, powerful forces within Armenia that do not want this situation to change, or this story to be fully told. For decades, the countrys leadership has originated not from Armenia itself but from politicians who first ruled the separatist holdout in Karabakh.

Such leaders today seek retrenchment. A peace deal on offer between Azerbaijan and Armenia is an anathema to them. But were this land-locked nation to become a land-linked one, Armenias integration into the global economic community, away from its present-day isolation, would be achievable.

While trade with neighboring Azerbaijan might improve the lot of the Armenian people, however, it would remove these leaders raison detre. And in their fight to maintain influence, these politicians have demanded the roads Azerbaijan offers as supply routes be sealed and blockaded.

The pain these monoethnic nationalists have created for their own country and the wider region is difficult for Westerners  who have spent the last generation living in relative peace  to fully understand.

In my own office, there are Azerbaijanis who were born and raised in Armenia; they were forced to flee as the war began 30 years ago. And every one of us knows someone  a brother, a sister, a cousin, a friend, a colleague  who was forced from Karabakh during the war and forced to live as refugees. All these lives ruined, all this pain, all to create todays monoethnic Armenia, and in support of a monoethnic gray zone in Karabakh.

But it doesnt have to continue this way.

Azerbaijanis want peace. We want restitution, reconciliation and, perhaps, one day even friendship with our neighbor. Stories that claim otherwise dont help establish peace, nor do they bring a deal to the table. Indeed, the purpose of their promulgation is quite the opposite  they are intended to drive those negotiating on both sides of this most delicate and sensitive issue further apart.

Politics are at play here. And more than anywhere else, it is the politics of Armenia itself.
BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- China's top intellectual property regulator on Thursday said it had stepped up examination efforts to better protect patents in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), genetic technology and blockchain.

It has revised examination standards for these cutting-edge industries, expanding patent scope and providing higher examination quality and efficiency, said Wu Hongxiu, an official from the National Intellectual Property Administration, at a press conference.

To support sci-tech innovation and IP protection in emerging industries and new business forms, the administration has been more open on patent data, making 18 databases on frontier technologies accessible to the public, Wu added.

China has leveraged IP to drive innovation, particularly in meeting the demand for new technologies and industries in recent years. For example, by 2022, the country had secured the top position globally in terms of the number of patent applications filed for AI technologies, with the scale of the core AI industry surpassing 500 billion yuan (about 68.7 billion U.S. dollars). 
NEW DELHI: The recent G20 Summit held in New Delhi, has sparked discussions in Pakistan, where some citizens are increasingly concerned about their country's perceived isolation on the international stage. With high-profile attendees including US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, many Pakistanis believed that India would reap substantial benefits from hosting such a prestigious event.

Reacting to the highly successful G20 Summit, a Pakistani national stated, "When the leaders of the top 20 countries converge on a nation, it's an honor for that country. India's economy stands to gain significantly from this."

#WATCH | Pakistan: Another local says, I think we have failed in our foreign policy and because of this the G-20 summit is being held in our neighbouring country and heads of state are coming. In the last 5-6 years our economy and the security situation have deteriorated. The pic.twitter.com/HFhwPhWPtg  ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2023

Another pointed out that even Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman attended the summit in India, which led some to anticipate his visit to Pakistan. However, this expectation went unmet, leaving some to question Pakistan's standing in the region.

#WATCH | Another local says, Today when we are trying to save our economy, India is hosting the top 20 countries. India has taken a good step. This was a proud moment for Indians... The pictures that have come from India, PM Modi's pictures with the world leaders, they got pic.twitter.com/bbZsu5Z1a3  ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2023

Critics in Pakistan have placed blame on their country's foreign policy, believing it to be the root cause of this perceived snub. "Our foreign policy has faltered, and as a result, the G-20 summit is taking place in our neighbouring country, with heads of state attending. Over the past few years, our economy and security situation have deteriorated, leading to our isolation," one individual remarked.

Despite these concerns, some Pakistanis have praised India for its successful hosting of the summit. They acknowledged the significance of this global event taking place in India while Pakistan grapples with economic challenges. "India has taken a commendable step. It's a source of pride for Indians. The images of PM Modi with world leaders have effectively portrayed a positive image of India to the world," one individual stated.

The absence of certain nations, notably Pakistan, from the summit raised eyebrows. "Saudi Arabia's 'Shezada' didn't visit us but went to India, underscoring India's growing global importance. It was surprising that Bangladesh received an invitation while Pakistan did not," another individual commented.

In a separate development, May-Elin Stener, Norway's Ambassador to India, commended the Indian government for achieving consensus at the summit. She expressed hope that world leaders would follow through on the New Delhi Leaders' Declaration, particularly in addressing climate change concerns. Stener acknowledged India's rapid economic growth and emphasized the importance of ensuring that this growth is environmentally sustainable.
WASHINGTON: In a major development, Hunter Biden, the son of US President Joe Biden, has been indicted on federal firearms charges. This latest development marks a crucial turn in an ongoing investigation against the President's son. According to news agency AP, the indictment alleges that Biden provided false information about his drug use when acquiring a firearm in October 2018, a period during which he openly admitted to grappling with addiction to crack cocaine. This revelation emerged through documents filed in federal court in Delaware.

Hunter Biden has been under scrutiny for his business dealings as well. The special counsel overseeing the case has hinted at potential charges related to tax payments, which could be filed in either Washington or California, where he resides.

This indictment unfolds as congressional Republicans continue to pursue an impeachment inquiry against the Democratic President, with a significant focus on Hunter Biden's business affairs. While Republicans have obtained testimony suggesting that Hunter Biden used the "Biden brand" to secure international work opportunities, concrete evidence of wrongdoing by the President remains elusive.

According to the indictment, Hunter Biden falsely declared on the mandatory firearm purchase form when he acquired a Colt Cobra Special from a Wilmington, Delaware, gun shop in October 2018. He is accused of checking a box affirming that he was neither a drug user nor addicted to drugs, despite being a drug user, thereby illegally possessing the firearm.

Previously, a felony gun charge against Hunter Biden, aged 53, was part of a plea agreement that also included guilty pleas to misdemeanour tax charges. However, this agreement unravelled during a July court hearing when a judge raised concerns about its unconventional terms.

Defence attorneys argue that the portion of the agreement sparing Hunter Biden from prosecution on the gun charge if he maintains good conduct is still in effect, including provisions for immunity against other potential charges. While attorneys indicated they would contest any additional charges filed against him, they did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Thursday.

Prosecutors, on the other hand, assert that the agreement never came into force and is now invalid. They had signalled earlier this month that charges were forthcoming.

The plea agreement had been denounced by Republicans as a "sweetheart deal." If accepted, it would have allowed Hunter Biden to serve probation rather than serving jail time after pleading guilty to tax evasion for the years 2017 and 2018.

During those two years, Hunter Biden's personal income totalled around USD 4 million, comprising fees from his business and consulting work with a company co-founded with the CEO of a Chinese business conglomerate and his involvement with the Ukrainian energy company Burisma, as stated by prosecutors.

Congressional Republicans have maintained their independent investigations into the Justice Department's handling of the case and have probed nearly every facet of Hunter Biden's business dealings, attempting to draw a direct connection between his financial affairs and his father. Despite these efforts, they have yet to present concrete evidence implicating the President in his son's work, aside from occasional dinners with Hunter Biden's clients or brief greetings during phone calls.
Seoul: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited Russia's most advanced space launch facility on Wednesday, where President Vladimir Putin promised Pyongyang assistance in building satellites. The historic meeting comes as North Korea strives to launch its first spy satellite into orbit, an undertaking that has already failed twice this year. The anticipated Russian assistance comes as North Korean scientists have pledged to launch the new Chollima-1 launcher again in October.

Heres all you need to know about North Koreas race for space:

North Korea has launched six satellites since 1998, two of which appear to have been successfully deployed in orbit. According to TASS, a top North Korean space official stated in 2015 that the government wants to deepen collaboration with Russia on "peaceful" usage of outer space. In 2016, the most recent successful satellite launch occurred. International observers said that the satellite appeared to be under control, but there was some disagreement about whether it had sent any transmissions.

Kim unveiled a wish list of military reconnaissance satellites during a party conference in January 2021. Analysts believe the Chollima-1 is a novel design that employs the dual-nozzle liquid-fueled engines developed for Pyongyang's Hwasong-15 ICBM, which has roots in Soviet designs.

Why is Russia helping to build the satellite?

It noted that North Korea has repeatedly failed to put its first military spy satellite into orbit. But the sharing of such strategic weapons technology could also significantly enhance North Korea's ability to advance its broader ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programs with help from Russia,

Why North Koreas satellites are said to be controversial?

The United States and its allies condemned North Korea's latest satellite tests as flagrant violations of UN Security Council resolutions prohibiting the development of technology relevant to North Korea's ballistic missile programs.

Resolutions passed by the United Nations with Russia's support also prohibit any scientific and technological cooperation with North Korea in nuclear science and technology, aerospace and aeronautical engineering and technology, or advanced manufacturing production techniques and procedures. North Korea claims sovereignty over its space program and defense activities.

North Korea had yet to deploy an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at the time of the 2016 space launch. The launch of the satellite was condemned by governments in the United States and South Korea as a covert test of missile technology capable of hitting the continental United States.

According to analysts, North Korea has developed and launched three types of ICBMs since 2016, and it now looks to be committed to placing operational satellites in space. This would not only give it greater knowledge of its adversaries but would also demonstrate its ability to compete with other developing space powers in the region.

According to Lee Choon Geun of South Korea's Science and Technology Policy Institute, Putin's remarks before meeting Kim at the Vostochny Cosmodrome may imply that Russia will aim to teach North Korea how to make satellites rather than create them for North Korea.
Hindi Diwas, also known as Hindi Day, is celebrated on September 14th each year to commemorate the adoption of Hindi as one of India's official languages. This significant event in India's linguistic history carries historical and cultural significance that warrants a closer examination. Hindi Diwas is a celebration of India's linguistic heritage and the role of Hindi as an official language in the country's governance and culture.

The decision taken on September 14, 1949, was a crucial step in India's post-independence journey and continues to hold significance in the nation's cultural and administrative landscape. While Hindi serves as a binding force, it is essential to strike a balance between promoting it and preserving the rich linguistic tapestry that makes India truly diverse and unique.

Hindi Diwas Historical Background

The roots of Hindi Diwas can be traced back to the pre-independence era when the Indian National Congress passed a resolution in 1949 to promote Hindi as the official language of India. After gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1947, India was a multilingual nation with a rich tapestry of languages and dialects spoken across its vast expanse. This linguistic diversity posed administrative challenges, making it imperative to select one language that could unite the nation.

Also read: 6 Benefits Of Meditation: Heres How Meditation Can Help In Career Growth

The Constituent Assembly and Hindi's Adoption:

In pursuit of a unifying language, the Constituent Assembly of India, led by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, took up the momentous task of deliberating on the language issue. It was essential to choose a language that could transcend regional and linguistic barriers, and Hindi, owing to its widespread usage, was a strong contender. After much debate and discussion, the assembly resolved to give Hindi the status of an official language of the newly independent India.

September 14, 1949: A Landmark Decision:

The decision to adopt Hindi as an official language was formalized on September 14, 1949, when the Constituent Assembly ratified it. This date, henceforth, became known as Hindi Diwas. It was a historic moment as it signified not only the selection of a language for administrative purposes but also a recognition of the rich cultural heritage associated with Hindi.

The Importance of Hindi:

Hindi, written in the Devanagari script, has deep cultural and historical roots in India. It has evolved over centuries, drawing from Sanskrit and other indigenous languages, making it a vibrant and expressive medium of communication. Additionally, Hindi is spoken by a significant portion of India's population, making it one of the most widely spoken languages in the country. Its adoption as an official language was seen as a step towards fostering national unity and cohesion.

Promotion of Hindi:

Since the adoption of Hindi as an official language, successive governments in India have taken several measures to promote its use. Hindi language education was encouraged, and various institutions were established to propagate and develop the language. Hindi-speaking states, often referred to as the "Hindi Belt," played a pivotal role in preserving and popularizing the language.

Linguistic Diversity and Challenges:

However, it's important to note that India's linguistic diversity is immense, and several states and regions have their own official languages. This linguistic plurality has at times led to linguistic tensions and demands for the protection of regional languages. Therefore, while Hindi enjoys a prominent position at the national level, it is equally important to respect and preserve the linguistic identities of different regions within India.

Modern Significance:

Today, Hindi Diwas is celebrated across India. Schools, colleges, and government institutions organize various events, competitions, and cultural programs to mark the occasion. It serves as a reminder of the significance of language in shaping national identity and fostering unity in diversity.

(This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)
J&K: Three security men were killed in a terrible incident in Kashmir during an encounter with militants. Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonchak, and Humayun Bhat, Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police, were among those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Terrorists sadly killed them during a violent gunfight in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district.

This terrifying encounter occurred during the night of Tuesday and Wednesday when a joint police-army operation was undertaken to disrupt insurgent activity in the Garol village of Kokernag, located in the southern portion of Anantnag district. The operation began on Tuesday evening but was suspended during the night. It was quickly restarted in the morning, however, as credible intelligence indicated the presence of terrorists at a hideout.

Dr Farooq Abdullah, president of the National Conference and a Member of Parliament, stated on Thursday that militancy in Jammu and Kashmir has not ceased and that only dialogue will bring peace to the region. Farooq Abdullah paid a visit to the Humhama home of Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Muzamil Bhat, who was slain in the Anantnag encounter last evening

We cannot achieve peace without holding talks. Fighting with enemies can only lead to destruction and Ukraine is the perfect example of it and militancy has not come to an end in J&K," said Farooq Abdullah.

Meanwhile, the TRF (The Resistance Front) terrorist group has claimed responsibility for the horrific encounter on social media. They claimed that the operation was carried out by their specialised unit. Despite the fact that the police and other security agencies have remained silent on TRF's claim.
New Delhi: City doctors on Monday said that they are seeing an increase in cases of viral fever, dengue in the national capital region. Recent floods have doubled cases of dengue over the last three weeks and are the highest reported in the last six years, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) said in its latest statement.

Cases of swine flu and typhoid are also being reported. Speaking to IANS, Ajay Aggarwal, Director of Internal Medicine at Fortis Hospital in Noida, said that there is an increase in the number of acute febrile illness cases. "Viral cases like influenza and dengue have been on the rise. Patients coming in with low platelet counts are seen with an increased frequency since the last month. However, not all cases of low platelet are dengue," Aggarwal said.

"Patients generally present with high grade fever with chills along with generalised malaise, weakness, joint pains, cough, vomiting or loose stools -- all of which are included in the viral prodrome syndrome, the doctor said. In addition, there is also swine flu (H1N1). Aggarwal said "10-15 cases of H1N1 flu have been detected in our hospital".

However, no cases of Covid have been reported yet, he noted. "There has been a 20-25 per cent rise in people coming with flu-like symptoms," Tushar Tayal, Lead Consultant, Department of Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, told IANS.

"Some elderly patients have also required hospital admissions, and consequently developed pneumonia and bronchitis," he added. Tayal said that dengue cases have reduced slightly, compared to the last two weeks. But certain patients are showing overlap in symptoms, who present flu-like symptoms which upon tests are turning positive for dengue, the doctor noted.

In addition, there have been multiple cases of hepatitis and typhoid. This was also confirmed by online community platform LocalCircles in its recent survey which showed that one in two households in Delhi-NCR now has one or more individuals with viral symptoms.

Households impacted have more than doubled in the last month. The survey, which included over 9,000 residents from Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Noida and Ghaziabad, revealed a sizable jump in people who are unwell with 50 per cent of households surveyed being affected now than last month.

"Blood investigations like CBC are usually done on the third day of fever onset which may reveal low platelet count and neutropenia (low TLC)," Aggarwal said. Also, since dengue causes decreased immunity, it may be complicated by secondary bacterial infections as well, he said. "Treatment of viral febrile illness involves symptomatic management of fever along with adequate hydration. Patients are advised to seek doctor advice in case of very high grade fever, persistent vomiting, bleeding, severe loose motions or respiratory distress," the doctor noted.
DNA Analysis: For the past three tumultuous days, the Indian Army has been locked in a fierce confrontation with Pakistan-backed militants amidst the dense foliage of Gudol Kokernag, nestled in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. While the exact number of militants remains uncertain, preliminary reports suggest that a contingent of three to four terrorists may still be entrenched in the area.

A collaborative effort between the Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police continues unabated. Tragically, this ongoing firefight has claimed the lives of two valiant officers: Colonel Manpreet Singh, the Commanding Officer of the 19th Rashtriya Rifles, and Major Ashish Dhounchak.

Adding to this grievous toll, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Humayun Bhat, a member of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, also attained martyrdom. On September 13th, as the operation resumed in Anantnag, the terrorists encircled our soldiers and launched an unexpected assault. Our brave soldiers fell victim to the indiscriminate gunfire unleashed by the militants. This intense firefight persisted throughout the day, punctuated by both bullet exchanges and ominous bomb blasts resonating within the forested terrain.

The Resistance Front (TRF), an outlawed organization with ties to Pakistan's notorious terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, has brazenly claimed responsibility for the assault on the Indian Army. The figurehead of this malevolent outfit is Sheikh Sajjad Gul, who has led TRF since its inception in 2019. Worth noting, this terrorist organization was officially proscribed by authorities in January of this year.

In today's episode of the prime-time program "DNA" on Zee News, anchor Sourabh Raaj Jain delves into a comprehensive analysis of how TRF, now emerging as the most active terrorist organization in the Kashmir Valley, backed by the machinery of the Pakistani state, has evolved into a formidable challenge for the Indian Army. Stay tuned to Zee News's "DNA" for a deeper understanding of this pressing issue and its implications.
New Delhi: The Congress party fired back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday following his criticism of the INDIA bloc parties, labelling them as "ghamandia" (arrogant). They accused him of using a government event as a platform to attack the opposition. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh remarked, "The PM is resorting to his usual tactic - insults. Once again, he directed his criticism towards the INDIA parties, branding them as so-called 'Ghamandia' parties."

Ramesh didn't stop there and continued, "But who is he to speak? The man who chooses to use a government function to criticize the opposition. If we were to stoop to his level, one could argue that he leads the GA-NDA coalitionGautam Adani's NDA."

The PM is back to doing what he does bestinsult. He repeated his abuse of INDIA parties as so-called Ghamandia parties.



Look, whos talking! The man who uses the occasion of a govt function to abuse the Opposition. Stooping to his level, one could easily say he heads the GA-NDA  Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) September 14, 2023

The Congress has been targeting the BJP over the Adani issue, alleging that the prime minister has failed to initiate an investigation against the Adani Group in the wake of allegations of irregularities and stock price manipulation. The Adani group has denied these accusations.

PM Accuses Congress of Threatening Sanatan Dharma

Prime Minister Modi, during a spirited address in Bina, Madhya Pradesh, on Thursday, described the opposition INDIA alliance as "ghamandia" and accused them of attempting to undermine Sanatan Dharma. In a vigorous attack on the opposition bloc, the Indian National Developmental, Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), the Prime Minister referred to it as an "INDI alliance" lacking clear leadership.

Addressing a massive gathering, PM Modi accused the INDIA bloc of harbouring an agenda to erode the nation's 'Sanatan' culture. "At a time when Bharat is emerging as a world leader on the global stage, some parties are trying to divide the country and its people. They have formed an 'INDI' alliance. Some refer to it as an 'arrogant' alliance. They are yet to name a leader, and there is considerable suspense regarding who will lead them into the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Their hidden agenda is to assault India's culture," PM Modi stated.

He alleged that during the third meeting of the Opposition bloc in Mumbai, they passed a resolution to "eradicate the Sanatan culture" in the country. PM Modi concluded, "This INDI alliance has resolved to abolish our 'Sanatan' culture. They are determined to destroy the ideologies, cultures, and traditions that have united the country and its people for centuries."

PM Modi delivered this address after inaugurating several projects valued at over Rs 50,700 crores, including the 'Petrochemical Complex' at Bina Refinery and ten new industrial projects across Madhya Pradesh. These projects encompass a 'Power and Renewable Energy Manufacturing Zone' in the Narmadapuram district, two IT parks in Indore, a Mega Industrial Park in Ratlam, and six new industrial areas throughout the state.

PM Modi also emphasized that the Petrochemical Complex at Bina Refinery will contribute to making India 'Atmanirbhar' (self-reliant) and generate employment opportunities for the youth.

Expressing his gratitude to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, PM Modi said, "I want to thank Shivraj Singh Chouhan and his government for giving me the opportunity to come and meet the people of the state. Today, we are laying the foundation stone for projects worth more than Rs 50,000 crores. The combined expense of these projects even exceeds the budget of many states."

The Prime Minister's statement follows comments by DMK leader and Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who criticized Sanatan Dharma, describing it as against social justice and advocating for its eradication. Another DMK leader, A Raja, likened Sanatan Dharma to diseases such as leprosy.
SHANGHAI, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- China on Thursday announced the winners of two 10-million-yuan (1.4 million U.S. dollars) science prizes, aiming to boost basic research globally.

Five scientists have been honored with two individual World Laureates Association Prize (WLA Prize) awards: the WLA Prize in Computer Science or Mathematics, and the WLA Prize in Life Science or Medicine. Each of the two awards has a cash prize of 10 million yuan.

Arkadi Nemirovski from the Georgia Institute of Technology in the U.S. and Yurii Nesterov from the Universite Catholique de Louvain in Belgium shared the 2023 WLA Prize in Computer Science or Mathematics. The pair were awarded the prize "for their seminal work in convex optimization theory," the WLA said in a statement.

Their work "has sparked the 'first-order revolution' that has allowed optimization algorithms to be applied to the large-scale problems characteristic of modern applications," said Michael I. Jordan, chair of the 2023 WLA Prize Selection Committee in Computer Science or Mathematics.

The 2023 WLA Prize in Life Science or Medicine went to Daniela Rhodes from the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in the U.K., Karolin Luger from the University of Colorado Boulder in the U.S., and Timothy J. Richmond from ETH Zurich in Switzerland, "for elucidating the structure of the nucleosome at the atomic level, providing the basis for understanding chromatin, gene regulation, and epigenetics."

The three laureates "have left an indelible mark on the history of our understanding of chromosome structure" through more than two decades of research, said Randy Schekman, chair of the WLA Prize Selection Committee in Life Science or Medicine and 2013 Nobel Laureate in Physiology or Medicine.

WLA Prize awards, which come with one of the highest cash prizes in the world, aim to stimulate an innovative spirit, help support basic research globally, promote international scientific and technological cooperation, and enhance the common welfare of all people around the world.

"The WLA Prize is designed to recognize and support the contributions to science by outstanding researchers and technological pioneers around the world, in a bid to support global scientific and technological progress, better address the common challenges faced by humanity, and advance the long-term progress of human society," said Wu Xiangdong, executive director of the WLA and chair of the WLA Prize Management Committee.

The WLA Prize is an international science prize in two categories, established in Shanghai in 2021 by the WLA, a non-governmental and non-profit international organization, and managed by the WLA Foundation. It aims to recognize and support eminent researchers and technologists around the world for their contributions to science. Enditem
Raigarh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday made a blistering attack on the Congress-led Opposition, saying the newly formed INDIA alliance wants to finish the Sanatana Dharma and the Sanatana Culture. "INDIA Alliance has decided that they will eradicate India's Sanatan culture; These people want to destroy India's culture, they want to destroy India," PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister, while addressing a public rally in Chhattisgarh's Raigarh, said that the opposition wants to push the country back into slavery. The PM, however, assured that "The BJP government of Delhi is leaving no stone unturned for the development of Chhattisgarh. But the Congress government here is not engaged in development work but only in empty talk and claims."

Attacking the Congress government in Chhattisgarh, the PM said it is lagging in development work but marching ahead on the corruption front. ''The government here is indulged in corruption in cow dung procurement," PM Modi said in Raigarh, adding, ''The mineral wealth of Chhattisgarh is being used as Congress' ATM. False propaganda and rampant corruption are the hallmarks of the Congress government in Chhattisgarh."

"The Congress government in Chhattisgarh has failed to ensure the the welfare of poor but it is rapidly progressing in corruption," PM Modi said while addressing the rally in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh.

Referring to India's recent Moon landing, the PM went on to say, "Our happiness has doubled in this festival season as India is celebrating the festival of its achievements. Our Chandrayaan has landed where no other country has reached."

Earlier, during a spirited address in Bina, Madhya Pradesh, PM Modi described the opposition INDIA alliance as "ghamandia" and accused them of attempting to undermine Sanatan Dharma. In a vigorous attack on the Opposition bloc, the Indian National Developmental, Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), the Prime Minister referred to it as an "INDI alliance" lacking clear leadership.

Addressing a massive gathering, PM Modi accused the INDIA bloc of harbouring an agenda to erode the nation's 'Sanatan' culture. "At a time when Bharat is emerging as a world leader on the global stage, some parties are trying to divide the country and its people. They have formed an 'INDI' alliance. Some refer to it as an 'arrogant' alliance. They are yet to name a leader, and there is considerable suspense regarding who will lead them into the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Their hidden agenda is to assault India's culture," PM Modi stated.

He alleged that during the third meeting of the Opposition bloc in Mumbai, they passed a resolution to "eradicate the Sanatan culture" in the country. PM Modi concluded, "This INDI alliance has resolved to abolish our 'Sanatan' culture. They are determined to destroy the ideologies, cultures, and traditions that have united the country and its people for centuries."

PM Modi delivered this address after inaugurating several projects valued at over Rs 50,700 crores, including the 'Petrochemical Complex' at Bina Refinery and ten new industrial projects across Madhya Pradesh. These projects encompass a 'Power and Renewable Energy Manufacturing Zone' in the Narmadapuram district, two IT parks in Indore, a Mega Industrial Park in Ratlam, and six new industrial areas throughout the state.

PM Modi also emphasized that the Petrochemical Complex at Bina Refinery will contribute to making India 'Atmanirbhar' (self-reliant) and generate employment opportunities for the youth.

Expressing his gratitude to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, PM Modi said, "I want to thank Shivraj Singh Chouhan and his government for giving me the opportunity to come and meet the people of the state. Today, we are laying the foundation stone for projects worth more than Rs 50,000 crores. The combined expense of these projects even exceeds the budget of many states."

The Prime Minister's statement follows comments by DMK leader and Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who criticized Sanatan Dharma, describing it as against social justice and advocating for its eradication. Another DMK leader, A Raja, likened Sanatan Dharma to diseases such as leprosy.
New Delhi: A police car in United States' Seattle hit Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old student from Andhra Pradesh, on January 23 near Northeastern University campus in South Lake Union. The internet is outraged by a shocking video clip, in which Seattle Police Officers Guild Vice President Daniel Auderer is heard mocking Kandulas death, saying, she had limited value, in a call with the guilds president, Mike Solan.

Kandula, who belonged to Kurnool, was walking near Dexter Avenue North and Thomas Street when Seattle Police officer Kevin Dave struck her with his vehicle on January 23. Auderer, who was sent to check if Dave was intoxicated, accidentally left his body camera on, in which he was heard laughing and saying that Kandulas life had limited value and the city should just write a check, The Seattle Times reported on Monday.

Eleven thousand dollars. She was 26 anyway, Auderer said, adding Dave was going 50 (miles an hour)", claiming how thats not out of control for a trained driver.

Seattle Police Officer Daniel Auderer caught on bodycam laughing about 23-year-old grad student Jaahnavi Kandula, who was struck and killed by his colleague, Officer Kevin Dave, on Jan. 23.



Prayers for Jaahnavi's family.@OPASeattle @SeattlePD @stimesmcarter pic.twitter.com/eeSyn4Xgsr  Marietta (@MariettaDaviz) September 12, 2023

The SPD said in a statement released on Monday that a department employee identified the video of Auderers call in the routine course of business, and escalated it to Chief Adrian Diaz. Following the chain of command, the employee then escalated it to the Office of Police Accountability for a review, the statement added.

Stating that it released the video in the interest of transparency, the SPD said it will not comment further on the video until the OPA completes its investigation. According to the KTTH radio station in Seattle, Auderer said he was ridiculing the lawyers when he made that comment. Auderer said that while talking to Solan, he had lamented Kandulas death, stating that it was unfortunate that her death would turn into lawyers arguing the value of human life.

I responded with something like: Shes 26 years old. What value is there? Who cares? I intended the comment as a mockery of lawyers, Auderer was cited as saying in KTTH. I was imitating what a lawyer tasked with negotiating the case would be saying and being sarcastic to express that they shouldnt be coming up with crazy arguments to minimise the payment, he added.

Auderer further said that he had laughed at the absurdity of how these cases are litigated and the absurdity of how he watched these incidents play out as two parties bargained over a tragedy. Kandula, who was raised by a single mother who taught in an elementary school, was due to graduate in December this year.
Princess Martha Louise, the eldest child of the Norwegian king - King Harald V - is all set to toe the knot with self-professed spiritual guru from Hollywood, Durek Verrett. According to reports, the couple will tie the knot next year. In an official statement, King Harald V said that his family was delighted to welcome Verrett. The couple, who toured the country in 2019 as The Princess and The Shaman", created a storm in Norway because of their alternative beliefs.

According to a report in the Guardian, 51-year-old Martha Louise has said she can talk with angels, while 48-year-old Verrett claims he "communicates with a broad range of spirits, wields ancient medicine and has a medallion that helps ward off heavy energies, spells and darkness." Reports say that the wedding will take place on August 24 in the picturesque village of Geiranger in Norway.

A Princess And A 'Shaman': The Controversial Couple

Both Louise and Verrett are known for making controversial statements and their alternative beliefs. Martha Louise, a divorcee who has three daughters, has claimed that she can talk to angels and she has shared this in books and courses and made a lot of money.

African-American Durek Verrett calls himself a "sixth-generation shaman". Verrett has suggested that cancer is a choice and reportedly sold medallions online to ward off COVID-19. According to a BBC report, she "has claimed to have risen from the dead and to have predicted the 9/11 attacks in the United States two years before they took place." He had reportedly even recommended exercises to remove "imprints" from women's private part left by previous sexual partners. Hollywood stars Gwyneth Paltrow and Antonio Banderas are reportedly among his followers.

Princess Martha Louise was earlier married to author Ari Behn, who committed suicide in 2019, two years after their divorce. In November 2022, she relinquished her royal duties so that she could concentrate on her alternative medicine business with Verrett. The latter has often been called a 'quack' and the duo have been panned for their alternative beliefs.
New Delhi: A 23-year-old Indian-origin woman Jaahnavi Kandula died on January 23, 2023, after being struck by a Seattle police patrol vehicle in the United States. Months after her demise, the shocking incident gained widespread attention when a recording from a body-worn camera surfaced, exposing two union leaders from the Seattle Police Department callously joking about her tragic death.

Reacting to the news of her death, actor Farhan Akhtar took to Instagram and paid his condolences. "#JaahnaviKandula. We didn't know each other but I know that as a student preparing to make a place for herself in the world, your potential was limitless and your value immeasurable. Condolences to your family. RIP," he wrote, adding a picture of Jaahnavi.

On Monday, the Seattle Police Department released footage from Officer Daniel Auderer's body camera. Auderer left his body camera on after responding to the South Lake Union area where a marked patrol vehicle driven by another officer Kevin Dave struck and killed Indian-origin woman Jaahnavi Kandula, according to NBC News report.

A day after the incident, the police said that the officer had been responding to a "priority one call." In the footage Auderer, who serves as vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, is driving and can be heard talking about the accident that involved 23-year-old graduate student Kandula in a call with the guild's president Mike Solan.

In the video, Auderer can be heard saying "she is dead" before bursting out into laughter. Referring to Kandula, Auderer said, "No, its a regular person." Towards the end of the clip, he can be heard saying, through bursts of laughter, "Yeah, just write a check. Eleven thousand dollars. She was 26 anyway," misstating the age of the victim.

He further said, "She had limited value," New York Post reported. Auderer said that he did not believe a criminal investigation was being carried out. He said, "I mean, he was going 50 mph. Thats not out of control. Thats not reckless for a trained driver."However, a report released in June revealed that Dave was driving 74 mph in a 25-mph zone while responding to a different high-priority call, NBC News reported citing KIRO 7.

Since the video was released, people have been calling out the police officers.

The Consulate General of India in San Francisco has raised concerns over the handling of an Indian-origin woman, Jaahnavi Kandula, who was killed by a police vehicle, and has demanded a through investigation and action against those involved.

The matter pertains to the reports showing an officer appearing to joke and bursting into laughter over the death of an Indian-origin student who was killed in January this year.

Recent reports including in media of the handling of Ms Jaahnavi Kandulas death in a road accident in Seattle in January are deeply troubling. We have taken up the matter strongly with local authorities in Seattle and Washington State as well as senior officials in Washington DC for a thorough investigation and action against those involved in this tragic case, the Consulate General of India stated on X (formerly Twitter).

It added, The Consulate and Embassy will continue to closely follow up on this matter with all concerned authorities.

Jaahnavi hailed from Andhra Pradesh. She was pursuing a masters degree from the Northeastern University campus in South Lake Union.
New Delhi: At a recent star-studded award ceremony, the glitz and glamour of the evening weren't just confined to the awards themselves. The real highlight of the night was a heartwarming encounter between two generations of Bollywood beauty and talent  Sobhita Dhulipala and the timeless Rekha.

For Sobhita, the night took an unforgettable turn when she found herself in the presence of her ultimate role model, the legendary Rekha. Sobhita, who has long admired Rekha as her on-screen idol, was struck with awe when she saw the veteran actress at the event.

It was a moment that felt like a dream come true for Sobhita. Meeting and greeting her favorite actress, Rekha, was an experience that left her in sheer disbelief. The two talented actresses crossed paths when Rekha gracefully stood near Sobhita's seat while making her exit, and this serendipitous encounter led to a heartwarming exchange of pleasantries.

To Sobhita's amazement, Rekha not only acknowledged her presence but also showered her with praise for her exceptional work. Rekha informed Sobhita that she had heard about her remarkable performances in movies and web series, including her standout role in 'The Night Manager'.

Sobhita couldn't help but be mesmerized by Rekha's timeless charm and the heartfelt words of appreciation she received. In return, Sobhita expressed her deep love and admiration for the yesteryear star. It was a beautiful moment where the admiration flowed both ways, bridging the gap between two generations of remarkable actresses.

Sobhita was extremely grateful about this moment and went on to repost it on her Instagram stories. She said, When you receive love from your hero, a part of you changes forever. The child in you, becomes a song. This was one such moment :) With the one and only

It's worth noting that Rekha, during her era, was celebrated as the "IT woman." She graced the covers of popular fashion and film magazines, setting trends and defining glamour in Bollywood. She was the epitome of elegance and allure. Fast forward to today, Sobhita Dhulipala stands as one of the most sought-after and glamorous actresses of her generation. She captivates audiences with her stunning avatars and delivers memorable performances on screen, with her role as Kaveri in 'The Night Manager' being a shining example.

Rekha and Sobhita's impromptu rendezvous was a heartwarming exchange that left fans and industry insiders alike in admiration of these two remarkable actresses, each contributing their unique charm to the world of cinema.
New Delhi: In a rare appearance, Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and Meta Founder and CEO were seen sitting at a little distance from each other during a meeting on Capitol Hill on Wednesday as the duo, along with other Big Tech leaders, faced questioning from the US lawmakers on their plans to build responsible AI.

US Senator Chuck Schumer, the Democratic majority leader of the Senate, called the closed-door meeting as the US prepares for legislation to control technology in the ChatGPT era.

Musk told reporters that it is important to have a referee or a regulator to ensure that companies take actions that are safe and in the general interest of the public". OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Microsoft founder Bill Gates, and Alphabet and Google CEO Sundar Pichai were also present in the meeting.

We begin an enormous and complex and vital undertaking: Building a foundation for bipartisan AI policy that Congress can pass," Schumer said at the meeting. With AI, we can't be like ostriches sticking our heads in the sand," the Senator said.
New Delhi: Elon Musk-run X Corp (formerly Twitter) banned a record 12,80,107 accounts in India between July 26 and August 25, mostly for promoting child sexual exploitation and non-consensual nudity. The micro-blogging platform, going through a churning under Musk who has recently appointed a new X CEO Linda Yaccarino, also took down 2,307 accounts for promoting terrorism on its platform in the country.

In total, X banned 12,82,414 accounts in the reporting period in India. (Also Read: iPhone 14 Price Drop Alert! Apple Cuts Prices By THIS Much; Here's How To Grab The Deal)

X, in its monthly report in compliance with the new IT Rules, 2021, said that it received 1,467 complaints from users in India in the same time frame through its grievance redressal mechanisms. In addition, X processed 78 grievances which were appealing account suspensions. (Also Read: Apple Wonderlust Event 2023: iPhone 14 Price vs iPhone 15 Cost - Check How Much More You May Have To Pay)

"We overturned 10 of these account suspensions after reviewing the specifics of the situation. The remaining reported accounts remain suspended," said the company. "We received 10 requests related to general questions about Twitter accounts during this reporting period," it added.

Most complaints from India were about abuse/harassment (1,267), followed by hateful conduct (62), child sexual exploitation (43), and privacy infringement (27). Under the new IT Rules 2021, big digital and social media platforms, with more than 5 million users, have to publish monthly compliance reports.

In the 'June-July' period, X Corp banned a record 23,95,495 accounts in the country. Between May 26 and June 25, X banned 5,44,473 accounts in India. The micro-blogging platform also took down 1,772 accounts for promoting terrorism on its platform in the country.

In addition, between June 26 and July 25, X banned 1,851,022 accounts and also took down 2,865 accounts for promoting terrorism on its platform in the country.

Meanwhile, under Musk, X recently approved a staggering 83 percent of government requests to either restrict or block content globally, including in India and Turkey.
BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of National Defense on Thursday urged the United States to stop all forms of military ties with Taiwan.

Spokesperson Tan Kefei made the remarks when commenting on information about Taiwan's recent military interaction with the United States, including a reported plan to buy mine-laying systems from the United States.

"We firmly oppose the United States conducting any form of official contact with China's Taiwan region and selling weapons to the island," Tan said.

The collusion between Taiwan and the United States will harm and even destroy Taiwan, Tan said, stressing that obstinately relying on the United States to seek "Taiwan independence" will only push Taiwan to the brink of war.

The Chinese People's Liberation Army has always been on high alert and will resolutely defeat any secessionist activities seeking "Taiwan independence" and attempts of external interference, Tan said. 
This photo taken on April 20, 2023 shows an exterior view of the venue for the fifth China-Singapore (Chongqing) Connectivity Initiative Financial Summit in southwest China's Chongqing. (Xinhua/Chu Jiayin)

This year, China-Singapore relations have been elevated to an all-round high-quality future-oriented partnership, charting the course for the high-level development of bilateral relations in the new era.

BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday he is ready to work with Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam to promote better integration and mutual improvement of the modernization process in China and Singapore.

The remarks were made in his congratulatory message to Tharman Shanmugaratnam on his assuming office as president of Singapore.

Noting that China and Singapore are each other's friendly neighbor and important partner for cooperation, Xi said that with concerted efforts of both sides, China and Singapore have jointly blazed a trail of success featuring mutual learning and win-win cooperation, which gives a strong boost to their respective development and rejuvenation, and also sets an example for cooperation among countries in the region.

This year, China-Singapore relations have been elevated to an all-round high-quality future-oriented partnership, charting the course for the high-level development of bilateral relations in the new era, Xi said.



The Chinese president said that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Singapore relations and is ready to establish a good working relationship with Tharman Shanmugaratnam to bring China-Singapore relations to new levels, promote better integration and mutual improvement of the modernization process, so as to bring more benefits to their people and make greater contributions to regional peace, prosperity and stability.
BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- China and Cambodia will hold a joint humanitarian exercise, code-named "Peace Angel 2023," in Cambodia in mid-to-late September, Tan Kefei, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, announced Thursday.

The joint exercise will be conducive to improving the coordinated action and emergency response capabilities of the Chinese and Cambodian militaries in health services and deepening pragmatic exchanges and cooperation between the two militaries, Tan said. 
Bayika Kalidibek sheds tears after arranging his son's photos in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 4, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Wang Fei)

The widow of late Laqini Bayika looks at her husband's photo on the wall at home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 5, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

The widow of late Laqini Bayika stands at the doorway of her home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 5, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

Bayika Kalidibek and his family have supper at home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 5, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

The wife of Bayika Kalidibek prepares to milk a cow at home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 5, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

Bayika Kalidibek enjoys leisure time with his wife (C) at home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 4, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Cheng Tingting)

Laqini Bayika's sister kisses a photo of her brother in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 4, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

Young people help Bayika Kalidibek pick snow daisies in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 4, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

This aerial photo taken on Sept. 4, 2023 shows the house of Bayika Kalidibek in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Jin Haoyuan)

The daughter and son of late Laqini Bayika communicate at Kashgar Second Middle School in Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 7, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Wang Fei)

This photo taken on Sept. 25, 2010 shows Laqini Bayika patrolling with his yak at snow-covered border areas in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Photo by Wang Lie/Xinhua)

This photo taken on Sept. 28, 2013 shows Laqini Bayika patrolling with his yaks at the border areas in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Photo by Wang Lie/Xinhua)

This photo taken on Sept. 4, 2023 shows a statue of late Laqini Bayika at his father Bayika Kalidibek's house in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu)

Bayika Kalidibek enjoys leisure time with his wife (C) at home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 4, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Wang Fei)

The widow of late Laqini Bayika works at home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 5, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Cheng Tingting)

Bayika Kalidibek prepares to pick daisies in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 4, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Jin Haoyuan)

The younger son of Bayika Kalidibek helps his mother carry a bucket of milk at home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 5, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Cheng Tingting)

The daughter of late Laqini Bayika attends a class at Kashgar Second Middle School in Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 7, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Wang Fei)

Bayika Kalidibek speaks during an interview at his home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 4, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

Bayika Kalidibek waits for supper at home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 5, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

The younger son of Bayika Kalidibek plays with a cat while his mother prepares to feed the cow at home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 5, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

The younger son of Bayika Kalidibek helps his mother carry a bucket of milk at home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 5, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

The son of late Laqini Bayika looks at a new notebook given by his teacher as a New Year present at Kashgar Second Middle School in Kashgar, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 7, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Wang Fei)

Bayika Kalidibek touches the photo of his son late Laqini Bayika in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 4, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

Young people help Bayika Kalidibek pick snow daisies in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 4, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

Young people help Bayika Kalidibek pick snow daisies in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 4, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

Bayika Kalidibek takes a rest after receiving visitors and guests at his home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 5, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

This photo taken on Sept. 21, 2012 shows Laqini Bayika riding a yak to cross a river during patrols in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Photo by Wang Lie/Xinhua)

Bayika Kalidibek is pictured at his home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 5, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

This photo taken on Sept. 7, 2008 shows Bayika Kalidibek taking a rest during patrol in Khunjerab, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Photo by Wang Lie/Xinhua)

This photo taken on Sept. 24, 2010 shows Laqini Bayika having lunch during patrol at the border areas in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Photo by Wang Lie/Xinhua)

This photo taken on March 6, 2009 shows Laqini Bayika patrolling with his yak at snow-covered border areas in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Photo by Wang Lie/Xinhua)

Bayika Kalidibek tells the border patrolling stories of his family for visitors at his home in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 4, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Cheng Tingting)

This photo taken on Sept. 25, 2014 shows Laqini Bayika hugging the body of a yak that got hurt and died during patrols in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Photo by Wang Lie/Xinhua)

Bayika Kalidibek looks at the photo of his son Laqini Bayika in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 4, 2023. Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, located in China's far west Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, usually sees a surge in tourism in September. For many tourists from across the country, the house where the "role model of the times" Laqini Bayika lived is a place they must pay a visit. Bayika Kalidibek, Laqini's 71-year-old father, always tell them about the life of his son.

Born in a small village in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Laqini grew up tough on the Pamir Plateau in a harsh environment. With an average elevation of over 4,000 meters, his hometown borders Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Patrolling the border has been a tradition for many locals. Laqini's father and grandfather were both border patrolmen, and he started to carry on the mission in 2004.

His job was by no means easy. The border route that Laqini frequented snakes over several mountains more than 5,000 meters above sea level, and it is so tortuous, rugged, and slippery that only yaks can transport people here. He voluntarily offered his yaks, the major asset of local families, to carry fellows over the mountains. But even yaks got hurt during the patrols, and he would shed tears over the loss of these animal friends.

During nearly 20 years of patrols, he saved many people's lives. But on Jan. 4, 2021, Laqini Bayika, the 41-year-old man of the Tajik ethnic minority, died while saving a boy from drowning in a frozen lake.

Laqini was posthumously awarded the title "role model of the times," whose patriotism, devotion, and bravery moved millions of people across China. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)
WELLINGTON, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand will provide humanitarian support to those affected by last week's earthquake in Morocco, Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta said on Thursday.

"We are making a contribution of 1 million NZ dollars (590,000 U.S. dollars) to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to help meet humanitarian needs," Mahuta said.

"New Zealand is deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation caused by this earthquake," Mahuta said, adding New Zealand stands ready to consider requests for assistance from the Moroccan government.

The 6.8-magnitude earthquake hit the North African country at 11:11 p.m. local time (2211 GMT) last Friday at a depth of 18.5 km.

The death toll from the devastating earthquake has risen to 2,901, and the injuries to 5,530, according to the latest statement released by the Moroccan government on Tuesday.

The IFRC is working with the Moroccan Red Crescent to deliver essential relief items such as food, tents and blankets, and to provide lifesaving medical assistance, psychological support and protection for those in need. 
Wang Xiaohong, a member of the Secretariat of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Minister of Public Security of China, co-chairs the eighth China-Vietnam public security ministerial meeting on cooperation against crime with To Lam, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and Vietnamese Minister of Public Security, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

BEIJING, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- The ministers of public security of China and Vietnam have agreed to enhance law enforcement cooperation and signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Wednesday.

The two sides made the pledge at the eighth China-Vietnam public security ministerial meeting on cooperation against crime in Beijing.

Wang Xiaohong, a member of the Secretariat of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Minister of Public Security of China, co-chaired the meeting with To Lam, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and Vietnamese Minister of Public Security.

Wang pointed out that the general secretaries of the two parties jointly drew a grand blueprint for the China-Vietnam comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership in the new era and provided important political guidelines for bilateral cooperation in various fields.

Since the seventh meeting, the public security ministries of China and Vietnam have achieved fruitful outcomes in maintaining political security, tracing fugitives and recovering assets, combating human trafficking and other areas, and completing various cooperation tasks, he said.

Wang stressed that China is ready to work with Vietnam to implement the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two parties and deepen cooperation in political security and cybersecurity. They will also strengthen practical cooperation in combating crimes, strengthen coordination and cooperation under multilateral frameworks, and enhance law enforcement capacity building to make a new and greater contribution to the security and stability of the two countries and the region at large.

For his part, To Lam said Vietnam is willing to strengthen high-level exchanges in law enforcement between the two countries, deepen law enforcement cooperation in various fields, and create a safe and stable social environment for the development of their respective countries.

Wang and To Lam jointly signed a MOU on cooperation between China and Vietnam in combating cross-border gambling. Enditem

Wang Xiaohong, a member of the Secretariat of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Minister of Public Security of China, co-chairs the eighth China-Vietnam public security ministerial meeting on cooperation against crime with To Lam, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and Vietnamese Minister of Public Security, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Tao)
This aerial photo taken on Oct. 28, 2022 shows the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville (PPSHV) Expressway in Kampong Speu Province, Cambodia. (PPSHV Expressway/Handout via Xinhua)

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement clearly demonstrated the success of multilateralism and the unwavering commitment made by the Asia-Pacific region to promote free trade, said a Cambodian official.

PHNOM PENH, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement has provided benefits to the whole Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), senior Cambodian officials said here on Wednesday.

Entered into force in 2022, the RCEP agreement comprises 15 Asia-Pacific countries, including 10 ASEAN member states -- Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam--and their five trading partners, namely China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

"Covering a combined population of 2.3 billion, the RCEP has created a huge market for ASEAN," Sok Siphana, a senior minister in charge of special mission, said in a lecture delivered to officials at the Ministry of Information.

"RCEP, by virtue of its size and the diversity of its membership, has become a solid block for advancing further trade liberalization in the Asia-Pacific," he added.

Workers make face masks at a factory in the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone (SSEZ) in Preah Sihanouk province, Cambodia on July 19, 2022. (SSEZ/Handout via Xinhua)

Siphan said this free trade agreement has played a crucial role in countering unilateralism and protectionism.

For Cambodia, hard infrastructure investment under the Belt and Road Initiative has enabled its economy to be more competitive and to reap the eventual benefits arising from greater market access under the RCEP, he said.

According to data from the World Bank, the RCEP covers 2.3 billion people, 25.8 trillion U.S. dollars of global GDP, and 12.7 trillion dollars of global trade in goods and services.

Information Minister Neth Pheaktra said the RCEP has played an important role in quickening economic recovery in the region in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era.

"This mega-trade pact will help Cambodia achieve its goals of becoming an upper-middle income country by 2030 and a high-income nation by 2050," he said at the event.

A lorry drives out of the Hong Leng Huor Dry Port on the western suburb of Phnom Penh, Cambodia on Jan. 13, 2022. (Photo by Phearum/Xinhua)

Pheaktra said the RCEP clearly demonstrated the success of multilateralism and the unwavering commitment made by the Asia-Pacific region to promote free trade.

Kin Phea, director-general of the International Relations Institute of Cambodia, a think-tank under the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said the RCEP has contributed to stabilizing its members' economies, especially amidst this ongoing global economic recession and uncertainty.

"The RCEP has great potential to create tangible benefits for all of its members, and ASEAN will reap long-term benefits from this trade deal by integrating further into global supply chains," he told Xinhua.

Phea said the RCEP will also help ASEAN narrow the development gap between the rich and poor member states.

"I believe that the RCEP will help transform the ASEAN region into a new engine of growth in Asia," he said.
SYDNEY, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The health department in Western Australia (WA) has sent out statewide measles warning after a returned traveler from Bali was identified as a confirmed case.

According to a statement released on Wednesday, the person got infected when traveling overseas and has spent time in the Perth and Midwest regions while remaining contagious.

WA Health's Acting Director of Communicable Diseases Jelena Maticevic said staff were contacting people who were exposed.

"Measles is a highly contagious viral illness and anyone who has had a potential exposure to measles and who develops symptoms of measles should see a doctor," said Maticevic.

WA Health treated every measles case as a potential public health emergency given the risk of local spread and the potentially severe nature of the disease.

Data from the department showed that around 30 percent of cases can require hospital admission, with about one person in every 1,000 likely to develop encephalitis and inflammation of the brain.

"Measles is a serious and highly contagious viral illness spread by tiny droplets released when infected people cough and sneeze," Maticevic warned.

So far this year, the state has reported two confirmed cases including this one. 
Servicemen of the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan and Turkiye are conducting joint exercises in Turkiye, Zeki Aktyurk, media and public relations adviser of the Turkish Ministry of National Defence, said this at a weekly briefing, Azernews reports.

Joint exercises of underwater attack and underwater defense units of special purpose naval battalions of the Azerbaijani Navy and special purpose units of the Turkish Navy started on 8 September and will end on 15 September.

The exercises are aimed at improving the interaction between the two countries' armed forces. The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry stated that the drills are intended to "develop the military decision-making, initiative, and management skills of operational unit commanders."

Turkiye and Azerbaijan have a long history of military cooperation, and this is evidenced by the success of Azerbaijan in the recent Garabagh conflict.

The six-week war concluded in November with a Russian-brokered cease-fire, under which a chunk of the region and all seven districts around it were placed under Azerbaijani administration after almost 30 years of control by Armenian forces. It also resulted in the deployment of around 2,000 Russian peacekeepers. More than 6,000 people died in the fighting.

The joint exercises of the Azerbaijani and Turkish naval forces are a testament to the strong military ties between the two countries and a sign of their commitment to further strengthening their relationship.
Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and a member of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, attends the opening ceremony of the 2023 Beijing Culture Forum and delivers a speech in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 14, 2023. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The 2023 Beijing Culture Forum opened on Thursday in Beijing, and it received a congratulatory letter from President Xi Jinping.

The letter was read out by Li Shulei, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, at the opening ceremony.

Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and a member of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, attended the opening ceremony and delivered a speech.

Speaking at the event, Cai said Xi's congratulatory letter vividly demonstrates China's firm determination and policy stance to adhere to the Global Civilization Initiative, strengthen cultural exchanges with the rest of the world, and jointly promote cultural prosperity and development.

He emphasized the need to take the spirit of the congratulatory letter as a guide, develop modern Chinese civilization, promote exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, and inject profound and lasting cultural strength into the endeavor to build a community with a shared future for humanity.

Cai stressed the importance of self-confidence and self-reliance, vigorously promoting the outstanding traditional Chinese culture, systematically protecting historical and cultural heritage, and nurturing the spiritual strength to achieve national rejuvenation.

He called for promoting openness and inclusiveness, mutual respect, and harmonious coexistence among different civilizations.

Cai added that China will work together with the international community to promote common values of humanity and strive to open up new horizons for people-to-people exchanges, connectivity and cultural integration worldwide.

He expressed hopes that the Beijing Culture Forum will achieve fruitful results and serve as a first-class platform to promote cultural exchanges and deepen mutual learning among civilizations.

The 2023 Beijing Culture Forum was jointly hosted by the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee and the Beijing municipal government.

Officials from central and local publicity and cultural units, renowned experts, scholars, writers, artists, industry leaders, as well as international political figures and heads of international cultural organizations attended the forum. 
Doves forage at the historic center of the city of Havana, Cuba, May 4, 2023. (Xinhua/Lin Chaohui)

Held under the banner "Current development challenges: the role of science, technology and innovation," the G77+China Summit is set to issue a final declaration that will include the purposes and principles of the bloc and address the needs of developing countries.

HAVANA, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- The upcoming Group of 77 plus China (G77+China) Summit Havana this Friday and Saturday will tackle core development issues, while the Cuban capital is geared up to receive delegations from over 100 countries.

"The summit aims to evaluate and debate the main challenges and core issues of the development of the nations of the South," Cuban Foreign Affairs Minister Bruno Rodriguez said at a press conference on Wednesday.

"We hope that the upcoming summit in Havana strengthens the voice of the Group of 77 and China," he said, adding that "the road to development is intrinsically related to science, technology, and innovation."

Li Xi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, will attend the summit as the special representative of Chinese President Xi Jinping, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

Held under the banner "Current development challenges: the role of science, technology and innovation," the summit is set to issue a final declaration that will include the purposes and principles of the bloc and address the needs of developing countries, said Rodriguez.

The declaration will highlight developing nations' "right to development amid an increasingly exclusive, inequitable, unjust and plundering international order," he pointed out.

Jose Ramon Cabanas, director of the International Policy Research Center of Cuba, told Xinhua that the summit will demonstrate the consensus reached by G77+China member states.

"This summit is taking place in a critical moment in history in the middle of a post-pandemic period," he said, stressing the importance of cooperation and solidarity.

For his part, Cuban expert Ramon Pichs said that the G77+China Summit will be essential to address pressing topics like climate emergencies.

"For developing countries, for G77+China and Cuba, the moment to act in regards to climate change is now," he said, calling the issue a massive challenge for the development of countries.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will speak at the summit's opening, together with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel.

Cuba took on the rotating presidency of the G77 plus China this January.

On Wednesday, traffic diversion measures were implemented in some of Havana's main avenues and streets ahead of the summit. Havana's Palace of Conventions and Pabexpo have been embellished to receive presidents, prime ministers and high-ranking officials who will visit the Cuban capital in the coming days, according to Cuban News Agency ACN.

Meanwhile, billboards that read "Making true the right to development" have been displayed citywide. Airport operations at Havana's Jose Marti International Airport have been re-adjusted to facilitate the arrival of foreign delegations, Cuba's civil aviation authorities said.

"We will give a warm welcome to all delegations in attendance. Cuba is an excellent place to talk about urgent topics affecting humankind," said taxi driver Raul Martinez.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 14, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People on Thursday.

"The decision of the two heads of state to elevate the China-Venezuela relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership is an important milestone in the history of bilateral relations," Li told Maduro.

In the face of an international landscape with changes and turbulence intertwined, China and Venezuela should work together to deepen strategic coordination, appropriately respond to risks and challenges, and better achieve win-win development, Li said.

Noting next year will mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Venezuela, Li said China-Venezuela friendship, trust, and cooperation would grow thanks to the strategic guidance of the two heads of state and the joint efforts of both sides.

Li said China will continue to firmly support Venezuela in safeguarding its sovereignty, national dignity, and legitimate rights and interests and oppose foreign forces' interference in Venezuela's internal affairs under any pretext.

China is ready to work with Venezuela to implement the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative and strengthen the exchange of development experience, make good use of the Mixed Venezuela-China High-Level Committee mechanism, and deepen practical cooperation in various fields, the premier said.

China will coordinate closely with Venezuela in multilateral frameworks and promote the building of a community with a shared future for humanity, Li said.

Maduro said China is committed to peaceful development, follows a development path suited to its national conditions, and has made remarkable achievements, adding that China's growth benefits not only its own people but also the whole world.

Maduro said establishing an all-weather strategic partnership between Venezuela and China is "a milestone in the cooperation between countries of the Global South."

Maduro expressed support for the major initiatives put forward by the Chinese head of state and said Venezuela is willing to strengthen cooperation with China in the economy, trade, science and technology, agriculture, education, and culture to usher in a bright future for bilateral relations. 
* Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with his Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday.

* The two presidents announced the elevation of the China-Venezuela relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership.

* Maduro said Venezuela is willing to learn from China's experience in building special economic zones and deepen practical cooperation in agriculture, investment, education, and tourism.

BEIJING, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with his Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday.

The two presidents announced the elevation of the China-Venezuela relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro Moros at the square outside the east entrance of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. Xi held talks with Maduro, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Ding Lin)

ALL-WEATHER STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

Xi said China and Venezuela are good friends who trust each other and good partners for common development, hailing the ironclad friendship forged amid the ever-changing international landscape.

"China has always viewed its relations with Venezuela from a strategic and long-term perspective, and firmly supports Venezuela's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, national dignity and social stability, as well as Venezuela's just cause of opposing external interference," Xi told Maduro.

"The establishment of an all-weather strategic partnership between China and Venezuela meets the common expectations of the two peoples and conforms to the general trend of historical development," Xi said, calling on the two sides to push for more fruitful China-Venezuela strategic cooperation, bring more benefits to the two peoples and inject more positive energy into world peace and development.

Maduro said Venezuela and China enjoy profound friendship and fruitful cooperation, making bilateral relations a model for relations among countries of the Global South. He said the Venezuelan people thank the Chinese government and people for their valuable support and assistance when Venezuela was suffering from illegal unilateral sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Maduro said Venezuela's national development and Venezuela-China relations are at a significant stage. "The establishment of an all-weather strategic partnership is of historic significance and will surely usher in a new era of bilateral relations."

Sun Yanfeng, Deputy Director of the Institute of Latin American Studies, China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, noted that Venezuela is the first Latin American country that China established an all-weather strategic partnership with.

"The upgraded relationship means increased political trust, strategic need of each other, and high-level cooperation between the two sides. It also means they will surely expand cooperation in multilateral frameworks and, therefore, contribute to building a fair and just international order," Sun said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

CHINA CHARISMA

Xi spoke about China's reform and opening up, especially the development of special economic zones, and noted that reform and opening up is an important instrument for China to catch up with the times in great strides and a crucial move in making China what it is today.

"China cherishes the valuable experience gained in this process and will continue to push forward reform and opening up. No force can stop China's development and progress," Xi said.

Xi said China stands ready to work with Venezuela to firmly support each other in exploring a development path suited to their national conditions and strengthen Party and national governance exchanges. He said China supports Venezuela in setting up special economic zones and will share relevant experience to help its national development.

Maduro said Venezuela is willing to learn from China's experience in building special economic zones and deepen practical cooperation in agriculture, investment, education, and tourism.

Maduro said Venezuela supports the joint construction of the Belt and Road. The Venezuelan side also supports the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by Xi.

The Venezuelan president said China has become a great country committed to peace, development, and well-being of humanity and a vital engine for promoting a new multi-polar world. He added that everything he has seen and heard during his visit demonstrates China's progress and strength.

Maduro started his week-long China visit in Shenzhen, a reform pioneer where one of China's first special economic zones was established in 1980. There, the Venezuelan president experienced firsthand the achievements of China's reform and opening-up.

If Venezuela can establish Venezuelan-style special zones to attract capital, technology, and management expertise, it will greatly promote Venezuela's development, as Venezuela's economy has been under pressure due to domestic political factors, U.S. sanctions, and COVID-19, said Song Junying. Song is the director of the Department for Latin American and Caribbean Studies at the China Institute of International Studies.

"Whether it is the Belt and Road Initiative or the other three initiatives, China regards other countries as equal partners, fundamentally different from the initiatives put forward by other non-regional powers in history. Therefore, Latin American countries, including Venezuela, have embraced the Chinese initiatives," Song said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro Moros, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

EXPANDING COOPERATION

Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Venezuela. China is ready to strengthen people-to-people exchanges with Venezuela, support the development of Chinese language teaching Confucius institutes in Venezuela, and strengthen media exchanges, Xi said.

He called on the two sides to implement the outcomes of the 17th meeting of the Mixed Venezuela-China High-Level Committee and strengthen practical cooperation in various fields in the next stage.

Xi said China is willing to import more high-quality Venezuelan products and congratulated Venezuela on becoming the first country in the Americas to join the China-initiated cooperation on the International Lunar Research Station.

The two sides should work closely in multilateral mechanisms, including the United Nations, The Group of 77 (G77) and China, strengthen solidarity and cooperation with other developing countries, and jointly safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the common interests of developing countries, the Chinese president said.

Noting China attaches great importance to the development of China-Latin America relations and next year will mark the 10th anniversary of the China-CELAC Forum, Xi said China is ready to work with Venezuela and other countries in the region to promote China-Latin America cooperation and build a community with a shared future.

For his part, Maduro said Venezuela stands ready to strengthen communication and cooperation with China within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations and the BRICS mechanism, safeguard multilateralism and the legitimate interests of developing countries, promote building a community with a shared future for humanity, and play a positive role in promoting the development of CELAC relations with China.

After the talks, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of a number of bilateral cooperation documents in the fields of jointly building the Belt and Road, economy and trade, education, tourism, science and technology, health, aerospace, and civil aviation. 
JERUSALEM, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The Israeli and Greek air forces completed on Wednesday a joint exercise, simulating long-range attack flights, the Israeli military said in a statement on Thursday.

The exercise featured "dozens of fighter jets from various squadrons, refueling tankers and the Israel Air Force's surveillance aircraft," the statement read.

During the operation, the aircraft embarked on long-range flights covering thousands of kilometers, traversing from Israeli airspace to Greek territory and back. In Greece, the fighter jets exercised low-altitude flying and live weapons drops within designated zones amid harsh weather conditions, the military said.

The collaborative effort marked a "wing-to-wing cooperation with the Hellenic Air Force while learning from one another and sharing operational knowledge," according to the military.

The exercise forms part of a yearlong series of drills carried out by the Israel Air Force that aim at "improving the operational and mental readiness for long-range flights, refueling, extensive striking and achieving air superiority," the military added. 
An international conference focusing on cooperation between Europe and China within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is held to mark the BRI's 10th anniversary in Sofia, Bulgaria, Sept. 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Liang Jianqiang)

The Belt and Road Initiative is enhancing economic ties between China and Central and Eastern European Countries, with a recent conference in Bulgaria emphasizing Bulgaria's strategic role and the Initiative's effect in globalization.

SOFIA, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been significantly contributing to the improvement of economic ties between China and the Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC), scholars and government officials said at a two-day international conference that concluded here on Thursday.

Focusing on cooperation between Europe and China within the BRI framework, the conference was hosted by Bulgaria, itself an active participant in the initiative.

Addressing the conference, Bulgaria's President Rumen Radev stressed the strategic role Bulgaria can play in boosting Europe-China economic ties.

He said that this conference would contribute to the improvement of Bulgaria-China dialogue and cooperation, and that such events are significant in the current complex geopolitical situation.

"The BRI is an initiative that brings us together," Zahari Zahariev, chairman of the Bulgaria National Association for the Belt and Road, said, adding that the BRI is contributing to the process of globalization in the modern world.

Wang Liyong, vice director of the China Center for Contemporary World Studies, said that under the complex circumstances in the world, it is necessary for China and Europe to pursue an in-depth dialogue.

From the Rovinari power plant in Romania to the CATL battery plant in Hungary, China and the CEECs have achieved significant results in trade and investment under the BRI framework, Wang said, noting that two-way investment has reached nearly 20 billion U.S. dollars.

The year 2023 marks not only the 10th anniversary of the launch of the BRI but also the beginning of the second decade of China-CEEC cooperation.

At the third China-CEEC Expo & International Consumer Goods Fair held earlier this year, more than 400 exhibitors from the CEECs and other European countries showcased their products, ranging from agricultural produce, wines and cosmetics to high-end manufacturing and services products.

A visitor selects wine at the China-Central & Eastern European Countries (CEEC) Expo in Ningbo, east China's Zhejiang Province, May 16, 2023. (Xinhua/Huang Zongzhi)

Against the backdrop of rising voices of protectionism and decoupling, China-CEEC cooperation could bring confidence to the world, Wang said.

During the past decade, the BRI has been turned into a well-received international cooperation platform from a blueprint. Today, over 150 countries and 32 international organizations participate in the BRI, China's Ambassador to Bulgaria Dong Xiaojun said.

China has accelerated cooperation with countries along the Belt and Road in the fields of technology and digitalization, and this will bring even more opportunities and create further mutual benefits, Dong said.

Affecting two-thirds of the global population, "this mega project is able to unify the world," said Kypriotelis Efstratios of the University of Ioannina in western Greece.

"The BRI is a project of globalization, for globalization," he said. "It is the road to a global community." 
UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Thursday called for the lifting of illegal unilateral sanctions so as to improve international humanitarian work.

It is worth noting that illegal unilateral sanctions severely affect the ability of the public sector of the countries concerned to provide basic services such as education and food supply, and interfere with the private sector's regular activities in trade, investment, and business operation, and as such have become the biggest obstacle to public-private humanitarian cooperation, said Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the United Nations.

"The international community should jointly urge relevant countries to immediately lift unilateral sanctions, eliminate their negative effects, and create favorable conditions for international humanitarian actions," he told a Security Council open debate on advancing public-private humanitarian partnership.

The humanitarian cause, as a common endeavor of all humankind, can build the greatest consensus across different civilizations. The international community should practice true multilateralism, promote international humanitarianism, unite all actors, including the public and private sectors and civil society, step up investment, jointly tackle challenges, and continuously improve the humanitarian situation in relevant countries and regions, he said. 
LUANDA, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Angolan Minister of State for Economic Coordination Jose de Lima Massano on Wednesday emphasized the crucial role of the oil and gas industry for the country's economy and pledged continued investment in petroleum resource exploration.

Speaking at the 4th edition of the Angola Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition 2023 (AOG2023) in the Angolan capital of Luanda, Massano highlighted the petroleum sector's fundamental role in shaping and transforming Angola's economy and the necessity of continuously maintaining the sector's competitiveness for the country, which serves as a "catalyst" for Angola's social transformation.

"We should not cease making the necessary investments to ensure that natural resources, including oil, can continue to be explored," he said.

The AOG2023 will run until Thursday in Luanda, with the participation of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), as well as African ministers and international experts from the sector.

Regarding greenhouse gas emissions, the Angolan top economic official acknowledged that petroleum activities would continue to affect this process. The current strategy is centered on reducing emissions.

"This effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions should also be carried out consciously and adapted to the reality of each country," said the official, reaffirming Angola's strong commitment to these reductions.

In July, oil production in Angola was around 1.15 million barrels per day, positioning Angola as the second-largest oil producer in Africa, surpassing Nigeria and trailing only behind Libya, according to data from the OPEC and Angola's National Agency of Petroleum, Gas and Biofuels. 
LILONGWE, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- China sent the first batch of a medical team consisting of 19 specialists to Malawi six months after the two countries established diplomatic relations in December 2007, which has started a long tradition of support that China has maintained to the sub-Saharan developing country.

So far, China has dispatched 10 batches of medical teams to Malawi, with a total of 170 people, treating more than 200,000 patients. The Chinese medical team has always been helpful in the areas of capacity building, clinical services, and provision of medical equipment and supplies.

"When the first medical team came to Malawi 15 years ago, our health system did not have enough clinical specialists as we have now," explained Jonathan Ngoma, director of Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH), one of the two referral health facilities that the Chinese medical team supports in Malawi.

"The (local) college of medicine at that time had not started producing their own specialists and, at that time, the current crop of senior specialists had gone to South Africa for their post-graduate studies," said Ngoma, as China celebrated 60 years of sending medical teams to the world and 15 years to Malawi, on Sept. 8 at the Chinese Embassy in Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi.

According to Ngoma, the deployment of the Chinese medical team to Malawi continues to strengthen the country's health system, enabling it to remain resilient to a number of challenges.

"Over the years, the Chinese medical team's specialists have helped in various areas, and during the period we've had interaction with the Chinese medical team, some of our team members have had attachments in China where they went to a college in Beijing," explained the KCH director.

The other area that Malawi remains grateful for the support of the Chinese medical team is new equipment and medical supplies that each batch comes with to the two referral health facilities, namely, the KCH in Lilongwe, and Mzuzu Central Hospital (MCH) in the northern region of Malawi.

In the wake of COVID-19 in Malawi, for instance, China was the first to donate various equipment and supplies to Malawi to strengthen the country's health system in fighting the pandemic.

On this year's International Children's Day, Chinese Ambassador to Malawi Long Zhou, and Malawian First Lady Monica Chakwera launched the "China-Africa Hand in Hand to Warm Children's Hearts" at the Home of Hope, an institution in Malawi's western border district of Mchinji. Through the campaign, the 10th batch of the Chinese medical team in Malawi provided free medical consultations to more than 300 children at the Home of Hope.

Wang Hao, the Chinese charge d'affaires to Malawi, described the medical and health field as a "key area of cooperation" between the two countries.

Wang's assurance during the commemoration last week was that China would continue to support Malawi's health system for the good health of the citizenry.

"The Chinese government will continue to dispatch medical teams to Malawi, implement the paired hospital cooperation mechanism projects, and promote deeper and more practical cooperation in the medical and health field under the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation," he said. "We hope to continue to promote health and welfare for the Malawians, and write a new chapter in our friendship." 
YANGON, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar earned over 6.48 billion U.S. dollars from its exports in the first five months of the 2023-24 fiscal year, according to the Ministry of Commerce on Thursday.

Between April 1 and Sept. 1 this year, the Southeast Asian country earned over 4.47 billion dollars of the total export earnings from the private sector, while it netted over 2 billion dollars from the government sector, the ministry's figures showed.

Myanmar's total export revenues during the five-month period was down, as compared to over 7.28 billion dollars earned in the same period a year earlier, the ministry's data showed.

Among the country's export products, manufactured goods are on top with a revenue of over 4.08 billion dollars, its figures showed.

Myanmar mainly exports agricultural, animal and marine products, minerals, forest products and manufactured goods to its foreign trade partners, including China, Thailand, Bangladesh and India, according to the commerce ministry. 
Vakhtang Tsintsadze, the Georgian Deputy Economy Minister, on Thursday said his office expected the volume of export and trade turnover to hit new record levels this year, repeating the results of 2022, Azernews reports, citing Agenda.

Tsintsadze said promoting and increasing export competitiveness was the Governments important priority and noted the state planned to implement a number of programmes.

In his comments on evaluating the indicators published by the Georgian National Statistics Office on Wednesday, he said positive trends continued in foreign trade and added the January-August data showed exports had increased by 14.3 percent, to $4.1 billion.

He also pointed out the trade turnover had risen by nearly 17 percent, with its volume reaching $14 billion.

The Deputy Minister said diversification and quality improvement of the export structure represented an important direction for the country's economic policy and had a positive impact on the growth of the private sector's competitiveness and the creation of new jobs.
SEOUL, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol will visit New York next week to attend the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, local media reported Thursday, citing the presidential office.

Yoon is scheduled to stay in New York from Sept. 18 to 22 (New York time) to join the high-level session of the UN General Assembly.

He will deliver a keynote speech to the UN General Assembly on Sept. 20 while planning to hold a series of bilateral summit meetings on the sidelines. 
PHNOM PENH, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- The value of imports and exports passing through the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone (SSEZ) in Cambodia reached 2.22 billion U.S. dollars in the first eight months of 2023, a year-on-year increase of 27.3 percent, said an operator's press statement on Thursday.

Jointly ventured by Chinese and Cambodian investors, the SSEZ is a flagship project in Cambodia under the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

"The trade volume through the SSEZ accounted for approximately 6.96 percent of Cambodia's total trade volume, and continues to maintain rapid growth," the statement said.

The statement said the SSEZ's high trade growth is eye-catching in the context of Cambodia's total international trade falling by 14.5 percent year-on-year in the first eight months of this year.

SSEZ's president Chen Jiangang said the economic zone has become an engine of Cambodia's economic development.

"The growth shows that the SSEZ's efforts in optimizing the industrial structure have begun to bear fruit, and development momentum has been further released," he said.

The 11-square-km economic zone has so far accommodated some 175 companies from China, the United States, Europe, Southeast Asia and other regions, creating nearly 30,000 jobs.

Neak Chandarith, director of the Cambodia 21st Century Maritime Silk Road Research Center, said the SSEZ is situated near the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, which is very convenient for trade between Cambodia and the rest of the world.

"The SSEZ, along with other BRI projects, have been playing a crucial role in helping Cambodia achieve its ambitious goals of becoming an upper-middle income country by 2030 and a high-income nation by 2050," he told Xinhua. 
Cao Lijun (1st, L) from the Chinese medical team provides medical services at Bakaka village in Tamana, Kiribati, on Sept. 12, 2023. (Chinese medical team stationed in Kiribati/Handout via Xinhua)

SYDNEY, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Two Chinese doctors on Thursday finished a four-day visit to Tamana and Tabiteuea North, two islands of Kiribati located more than 300 kilometers southeast of the capital Tarawa, after delivering free medical services to local residents.

At the invitation of Kiribati Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Cao Lijun and Che Xiaoshuang from the second batch of the Chinese medical team stationed in the Pacific island country departed from Tarawa on Monday, heading to their destinations by plane.

They not only provided consultations for critically ill patients, but also offered to local communities other free services, such as blood pressure and blood sugar measurement, cardiopulmonary auscultation, wound debridement and dressing change, as well as medication guidance.

From Monday to Thursday, more than 130 Kiribati people benefited from the services offered by Chinese doctors along with representatives of Kiribati's health authority.

Among them, the medical crew also identified patients who required urgent hospital care, including a woman in post-term pregnancy and people with severe lower back injuries. They were later transported to Tungaru Central Hospital in Tarawa for further treatment. 

Che Xiaoshuang (1st, L) from the Chinese medical team provides medical services at Bakaka village in Tamana, Kiribati, on Sept. 12, 2023. (Chinese medical team stationed in Kiribati/Handout via Xinhua)
MOSCOW, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Russia has decided to expel two senior U.S. diplomats, who are accused of carrying out activities "incompatible with their diplomatic status," the foreign ministry said Thursday.

U.S. Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy was summoned to the ministry, where she was given a note informing her of the activities being carried out by the two diplomats.

According to a statement by the ministry, the first secretary of the U.S. embassy, Jeffrey Sillin, and the second secretary, David Bernstein, are accused of "conducting illegal activities," by communicating with Russian citizen Robert Shonov, who was previously charged with "confidential cooperation" with a foreign state and carrying out assignments "aimed at harming Russia's national security."

Therefore, Sillin and Bernstein have been declared personae non gratae and been instructed to leave Russia within seven days, said the ministry.

The "illegal activities of the U.S. diplomatic mission," including the interference in international affairs, "are unacceptable," and will be "resolutely suppressed," stated the ministry. 
Burma: A UN human rights expert's recent call for the United States to impose stronger sanctions on Myanmar's military rulers has brought renewed attention to the ongoing crisis in the Southeast Asian nation.

Tom Andrews, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, emphasized the need for targeted measures against the junta, including their primary revenue source, the state oil and gas enterprise.

This article examines the implications of strengthening sanctions on Myanmar's junta and the complex factors at play in determining the course of US policy towards the military regime.

Also Read: Urgent Action Needed to Safeguard High Seas as Threats Escalate, Warns Greenpeace

Sanctions imposed by the United States on Myanmar's junta, following the military coup in February 2021, have had limited impact on deterring the regime's actions against the Burmese people.

Critics argue that these sanctions have not been comprehensive enough and have failed to directly target the junta's main revenue streams.

The UN's Special Rapporteur, Tom Andrews, contends that the junta is unlikely to halt its human rights abuses until it genuinely feels the economic consequences of its actions. In his view, the United States can and should take more forceful measures to exert pressure on the military rulers.

Andrews has urged the US to broaden sanctions by including the Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE) within their scope. MOGE stands as the junta's primary source of revenue, and targeting it could significantly impact the regime's financial capabilities.

Additionally, he has called for a complete ban on imports from Myanmar and the freezing of assets belonging to the junta's leadership.

Also Read: US Military Resumes Counterterrorism Operations in Niger

Since seizing power in February 2021, the junta has undertaken a harsh crackdown on dissent, resulting in the deaths of hundreds and the detention of thousands more. Furthermore, the regime has faced allegations of widespread human rights violations, including torture, sexual violence, and forced displacement.

The Biden administration has been among the most outspoken critics of the junta's actions. In response to the coup, the US government imposed sanctions on Myanmar's military leadership and voiced its support for the restoration of democracy in the country.

Stricter sanctions could further cripple Myanmar's economy, potentially exacerbating the suffering of the population. This is a key concern for policymakers, as the impact of sanctions tends to be felt most acutely by the people rather than the ruling elite.

The United States will need to navigate its relationships with other countries in the region, especially China and ASEAN nations, which have strategic interests in Myanmar. Sanctions may affect these diplomatic ties.

Past experiences with sanctions have shown that while they can apply pressure, they do not guarantee a change in behavior. Careful evaluation is required to assess the effectiveness of such measures.

Balancing the imperative to address human rights abuses with the need to ensure the well-being of the population is a delicate task. The US government must consider how sanctions may impact access to essential goods and services.

Collaborating with international partners and organizations, such as the UN, can enhance the impact of sanctions and build a coordinated response to the crisis.

Strengthening sanctions, particularly by targeting MOGE, could raise the economic costs for the junta's leadership, potentially forcing them to reconsider their actions.

Care must be taken to ensure that sanctions do not exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar. Providing humanitarian aid and support to civil society organizations is essential to mitigate any adverse effects on the population.

The United States will need to carefully manage its relationships with other regional and global actors, as they may have differing interests in Myanmar.

Also Read: President Biden Faces House Impeachment Inquiry Amidst Political Turmoil

The junta's response to intensified sanctions is uncertain. It may choose to double down on its authoritarian actions, negotiate with the international community, or seek alternative sources of revenue.

The call by the UN's Special Rapporteur for the United States to strengthen sanctions against Myanmar's junta underscores the urgency of addressing the human rights crisis in the country. While sanctions can be a tool to pressure the regime, they must be implemented judiciously to avoid exacerbating the suffering of the Burmese people.

The decision to expand sanctions requires a careful balancing act, considering economic, diplomatic, humanitarian, and multilateral dimensions. Ultimately, the goal is to achieve a peaceful resolution to the crisis, restore democracy, and protect the rights and well-being of the people of Myanmar. The international community's response, led by the United States, will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation.
Toto Wolff would love to see Red Bull impacted by the FIA's new flexi-wing technical directive that comes into force this weekend in Singapore, but the Mercedes F1 boss doubts this will be the case.

At Marina Bay this weekend, Formula 1's governing body will tighten up its control measures of all things flexible as featured in Article 3.2.2 of the Technical Regulations, which relates to the illegal use of flexible wing components to help retain downforce without adding drag or compromising straight line speed.

As part of the FIA's new directive, teams were compelled to submit assembly drawings and cross-sections of their aero elements  featuring front and rear wing assemblies, endplates and attachments - in a bid to strengthen the scrutiny of area targeted by the directive.

There have been suggestions that Aston Martin's early season success was related to a clever way of working around the rules relating to flexible wings, and that the team has since walked back its advantage.

It's therefore how much impact the measures will have on the performance of each team's car and how they could potentially shake up the running order.

Wolff is eager to see if the measures will have any incidence on a specific team's performance.

"It's going to be interesting," said the Mercedes boss, quoted by Motorsport.com.

"I think with the Aston Martin you've seen that they made a step backwards with their wing moving less, but I don't know the details. Let's wait and see.

"I don't know who is exploiting them to a bigger degree than others, but it's maybe Red Bull [if it] is half a second slower suddenly.

"That would be nice, but I don't think that will be the case."

FIA single-seater technical director Tim Goss has made clear that TD018, the governing body's latest flexi-wing directive, was not aimed at a specific outfit or car.

"Weve been speaking to some teams for several weeks where we believed there was a need for clarity," Goss explained.

"The FIA issued our proposal to all teams asking for feedback by the 29th of August. We then spoke again in Monza, about design details, where teams were asking us about examples.

"Its not that weve seen any one particular car or feature that weve targeted, or an element thats been common across the whole grid.

"This is about where front and rear wing elements join the nose, join the rear impact structure, join the rear wing endplates.

"And there have been several instances where teams have tried to make the most of the deflection allowance by permitting some bits and pieces to start moving relative to each other."

In summary, the FIA noted "a little bit too much freedom being applied to the design details of aerodynamic components" by F1 designers, and felt compelled to intervene.

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
Saudi sovereign wealth fund PIF has reached an agreement with Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (Sabic) to acquire a 100% stake in the Saudi Iron & Steel Company (Hadeed) in a deal worth SAR12.5 billion ($3.3 billion) thus creating a national steel giant.

Under a cross-conditional share exchange agreement, Hadeed will also acquire a 100% shareholding in Al Rajhi Steel Industries Company (Rajhi Steel) from Mohammed Abdulaziz Al Rajhi & Sons Investment Company (Rajhi Invest), in exchange for newly issued shares in Hadeed, the PIF said in a statement.

These transactions will allow Hadeed and Rajhi Steel to bring together their world-class steel plants and unrivalled leadership and experience in the steel industry in order to improve their respective production capabilities and to increase their operational efficiency, it stated.

According to PIF, the move is in line with PIFs broader efforts to accelerate Saudi Arabias industrial development, and will contribute to meeting the growing local demand for steel and improving Saudi Arabias steel production capabilities.

Furthermore, the transactions will contribute towards the growth of key downstream sectors, such as local construction, automotive, utilities, renewables, transport, and logistics, in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

Deputy Governor and Head of Mena Investments at PIF Yazeed A. Al-Humied said: "The steel industry is foundational to the Saudi economy and to its diversification and growth. These transactions will bring together PIFs financial capabilities and industry experience with Hadeed and Rajhi Steels leading technical and commercial expertise, to create a national champion in Saudi Arabias steel sector."

"They also build on PIFs mandate to establish new strategic partnerships in order to enable the private sector," he noted.

Sabic CEO Abdulrahman Al Fageeh said: "Over the years Hadeeds contribution to the construction sector, urban and civil development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as well as to the success and growth of Sabic has been considerable. However, we realize that Hadeed has further potential to become one of the most significant iron and steel companies in the GCC region."

"For Sabic, it was therefore important that the right buyers be found to enable Hadeed to achieve its full potential. The sale of Hadeed will enable SABIC to focus meanwhile on its strategy to become the preferred world leader in chemicals," he added.

Rajhi Invest Board Chairman Yazid Mohamed Al Rajhi said: "Todays announcement is a significant milestone for Rajhi Invest and Rajhi Steel. Were excited to bring together our capacity and expertise, alongside that of PIF and Hadeed, to enable Hadeed to better meet the future demands of its customers."

The transactions are in line with PIFs wider strategy to focus on the development of 13 strategic sectors, including the metals and mining sector.-TradeArabia News Service
Lando Norris will head into his Singapore Grand Prix weekend as the recipient of a major update on McLaren's MCL60, the biggest since the transformative upgrade introduced by the team in Austria.

Only Norris will benefit from the change at Marina Bay as McLaren did not have enough time to produce a second complete package for Oscar Piastri.

The Aussie will nevertheless have a selection of new parts on his own car before it is brought up to date in time for next week's Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka.

Norris revealed that the primary objective of the revisions is to address the MCL60's weakness in low speeds this year.

"Probably since Austria, it is the thing that we believe will kind of help us move forward the most since then," said the Briton as he described the magnitude of the upgrade.

"Obviously, we've not run it on the track yet and so we don't want to say too much until we've actually got it to work properly but it's a good step.

"The team have worked hard to get it on one of the cars here, and then we'll have the rest in Japan too. So it is an exciting couple of weekends for us."

Read also:

McLaren enjoyed the impact of its Austrian update immediately. Norris says that swift fulfilment has strengthened McLaren's confidence that its latest package will also produce a speedy step forward.

"Sometimes we would put stuff on and it's not really delivered to what we wanted or what it should have done," he said.

"But definitely up to Austria and how much we kind of progressed since then, it gives me more hope.

"It's also a bit more slower speed biased, which is a bit different to what we had in Austria. This is our first time we've been able to really try to target that a bit more."

Over the summer, and despite several noteworthy performances  including a pair of first row starts  Norris has been vocal about his difficulties in getting on top of McLaren's charger, often wishing that it easier to drive.

The Briton doesn't expect the car's latest update to make it any less tougher to handle as far as he is concerned.

"I think it's not going to help in exactly the places where, from a driving style point of view, I would probably want it, but it should just help with a little bit of overall loads, cornering speeds and just kind of consistency, tyre wear traction, things like that," he explained.

"It is just performance enhancement, it's not like something to make me feel better in the car."

And yet the 23-year-old says that improving his comfort behind the wheel and completely ironing out the MCL60's weakness in slow-speed corners are key to narrowing McLaren's gap to Red Bull.

"It's down to the same things every time, where we just can't change with a bit of aero balance or mechanical balance," he said.

"No matter what we try we are bad and we struggle, so I think those things let us down in quite a few races. And even at some places we go to, we're extremely competitive on 90% of the track, it's just certain things which then make us look bad.

"If we didn't have some of these bad things, we would be very strong and a lot more competitive and competing for podiums.

"If we can fix a little bit of this slow speed [weakness], if I can get a bit more what I believe the car needs to take that next step - a bit of it is what we hopefully will have this weekend, a bit of it will be what I want from a driving style point of view - that's when I'm confident we can take the fight to the majority of the teams, including Red Bull."

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
On September 12, 2023, Mark Cuban, a 10% owner of Reading International Inc (NASDAQ:RDI), sold 2,969 shares of the company. This move is part of a larger trend for the insider, who over the past year has sold a total of 35,531 shares and made no purchases.



Mark Cuban is a well-known entrepreneur and investor, best known for his role as a "shark" on the television show "Shark Tank." His involvement with Reading International Inc, a leading entertainment and real estate company, has been significant. Reading International operates cinemas and develops, owns, and operates multiplex cinemas and retail and commercial real estate in the United States, Australia, and New Zealand.



The insider's recent sell-off is part of a broader trend within Reading International Inc. Over the past year, there have been 18 insider sells and no insider buys. This could potentially signal a lack of confidence in the company's future prospects from those with the most intimate knowledge of its operations.



10% Owner Mark Cuban Sells 2,969 Shares of Reading International Inc (RDI)

On the day of the insider's recent sell, shares of Reading International Inc were trading for $20.21 each, giving the company a market cap of $78.298 million. However, the company's GuruFocus Value is significantly lower at $5.46, resulting in a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 3.7. This suggests that the stock may be overvalued and could be a potential value trap for investors.



10% Owner Mark Cuban Sells 2,969 Shares of Reading International Inc (RDI)

The GF Value is a proprietary measure developed by GuruFocus, calculated based on historical multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor, and future business performance estimates from Morningstar analysts. In the case of Reading International Inc, the high price-to-GF-Value ratio suggests that the stock's current price may not be justified by its intrinsic value.



In conclusion, the insider's recent sell-off, combined with the lack of insider buys over the past year and the stock's high price-to-GF-Value ratio, could be cause for concern for potential investors. As always, it's crucial to conduct thorough research and consider multiple factors before making investment decisions.



This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


In this article, we discuss 15 worst performing dividend stocks year-to-date. You can skip our detailed analysis of dividend stocks and their performance this year, and go directly to read 5 Worst Performing Dividend Stocks YTD.

In 2023, dividend-paying stocks have not performed as well as other types of investments because many investors are showing a stronger preference for technology stocks. However, investment patterns change over time due to shifts in market sentiment and various economic factors. The US economy is uncertain this year due to unpredictable inflation. The latest CPI report showed that inflation increased in August from the same period last year, reversing the recent trend of slowing inflation. Compared to a year ago, it went up by 4.3%, which is in line with expectations and represents the smallest increase in almost two years.

Because of the continuing economic uncertainty, the growth of dividends in the US slowed down during the second quarter of 2023. This deceleration in the countrys dividend growth resulted in a total of $148 billion worth of payouts, up modestly by 4.6% year-on-year when considering the core performance after accounting for lower one-time special dividends, according to the latest report by Janus Henderson. In general, dividend stocks havent performed that well this year. The S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats Index, which tracks the performance of companies with at least 25 consecutive years of dividend growth, gained 2.33% this year so far, underperforming the tech-heavy NASDAQ, which delivered a 33.06% return to shareholders since the start of 2023.

Also read: 15 Worst Performing Growth Stocks in 2023

As the ongoing inflationary period continues to extend its course, dividend stocks can be a reassuring choice for concerned investors. Historical analysis also shows that dividend stocks have given a solid performance during periods of economic downturns. This is because dividend stocks are a defensive investment choice these equities tend to raise their dividend payments over time, which can help offset the effects of rising prices. In one of our previous articles, we cited Fidelity Investments data and mentioned that dividends accounted for more than half of the market's returns in periods of high inflation. The report also noted that in the 1940s, 1960s, and 1970s, dividends made up 67%, 44%, and 73% of market returns, respectively. In those decades, when inflation averaged over 5%, total returns were below 10%.

Story continues

As mentioned above, tech stocks have dominated the market this year, surpassing dividend-paying companies. Even some of the biggest dividend companies such as The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE:KO), Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL), and AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV) have also reported negative returns in 2023 so far. In this view, we will discuss some of the worst performing dividend stocks this year.

15 Worst Performing Dividend Stocks YTD

Photo by Jp Valery on Unsplash

Our Methodology:

For this list, we examined the worst-performing stocks of 2023 and selected dividend-paying stocks that have experienced substantial declines in their share prices so far this year. We started with a list of fifty companies by filtering them based on share price drops. From the resultant list, we picked the top 15 dividend stocks that performed the worst and arranged them in ascending order based on their share price drops as of September 13.

15. NextEra Energy Partners, LP (NYSE:NEP)

Year-to-Date Share Price Drop as of September 13: 31.16%

NextEra Energy Partners, LP (NYSE:NEP) is an American publicly traded limited partnership that operates in the energy sector, with a specific focus on renewable energy and infrastructure. In the first half of the year, the company's funding strategy affected its share price significantly. Even though it announced a new plan to address these concerns, the share price continued to face challenges. The stock is down by 31.16% year-to-date, which makes it one of the worst performing dividend stocks on our list.

In addition to NEP, some prominent dividend companies like The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE:KO), Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL), and AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV) also declined this year.

At the end of Q2 2023, 23 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey reported having stakes in NextEra Energy Partners, LP (NYSE:NEP), compared with 24 in the previous quarter. The collective value of these stakes is over $285 million.

14. Comerica Incorporated (NYSE:CMA)

Year-to-Date Share Price Drop as of September 13: 31.17%

Comerica Incorporated (NYSE:CMA) is an American financial services company that provides a range of banking and financial products and services to its consumers. The stock has lost about 31% since the start of the year, which makes it one of the worst performing dividend stocks on our list. One of the main reasons for the stock's decline is the uncertainty in the regional banking sector, following the collapse of big banks earlier in March.

Comerica Incorporated (NYSE:CMA) currently pays a quarterly dividend of $0.71 per share and has a dividend yield of 6.22%, as recorded on September 13.

As of the close of Q2 2023, 46 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey reported owning stakes in Comerica Incorporated (NYSE:CMA), the same as in the previous quarter. The overall value of these stakes is over $658 million. Among these hedge funds, Citadel Investment Group was the company's leading stakeholder in Q2.

13. KeyCorp (NYSE:KEY)

Year-to-Date Share Price Drop as of September 13: 33.16%

KeyCorp (NYSE:KEY), a regional bank holding company, declined by 33.16% since the start of 2023. Just like CMA, the fall in KeyCorp's share price is mainly due to the banking crisis that started in March and has affected the banking sector overall. Due to this, KEY is one of the worst-performing dividend stocks on our list.

KeyCorp (NYSE:KEY) has been raising its dividends for 12 consecutive years and currently offers a quarterly dividend of $0.205 per share. As of September 13, the stock has a dividend yield of 6.87%.

The number of hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey owning stakes in KeyCorp (NYSE:KEY) jumped to 49 in Q2 2023, from 34 in the previous quarter. The consolidated value of these stakes is over $334 million.

12. Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE)

Year-to-Date Share Price Drop as of September 13: 33.3%

Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) is a New York-based pharmaceutical and biotech company. Though the company has a strong dividend growth streak of 13 years, the share price still declined by 33.3% in 2023 so far. The negative returns are due to the uncertainty around the company's Covid-19 vaccine sales. In its most recent quarter, the company announced a 54% year-over-year decline in its revenues given the falling demand for its pandemic-related products.

As of the close of Q2 2023, 73 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey reported having stakes in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE), which remained unchanged from its previous quarter. The consolidated value of these stakes is over $1.5 billion. With over 17.4 million shares, Citadel Investment Group was the company's leading stakeholder in Q2.

11. V.F. Corporation (NYSE:VFC)

Year-to-Date Share Price Drop as of September 13: 34.7%

An American global apparel and footwear company, V.F. Corporation (NYSE:VFC) is next on our list of the worst performing dividend stocks this year. Since the start of 2023, the stock has fallen by 34.7%. In December 2022, the company's chief executive officially stepped down from his presidency. In the most recent quarter, it gave a modest outlook for the fiscal year due to ongoing weaknesses in its wholesale business. In February this year, the company also slashed its dividend by 41.2% and currently pays a quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share and has a dividend yield of 6.83%.

At the end of June 2023, 26 hedge funds in Insider Monkey's database reported having stakes in V.F. Corporation (NYSE:VFC), down from 28 in the previous quarter. The collective value of these stakes is over $426.2 million.

10. International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF)

Year-to-Date Share Price Drop as of September 13: 35.5%

International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF) is an American company that creates and produces a wide range of flavors, fragrances, and other related ingredients. The stock has been experiencing a decline since the start of 2023 due to financial uncertainty and slow volume growth. In 2023 so far, the stock has fallen by 35.5%, which makes it one of the worst dividend stocks on our list.

The number of hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey owning stakes in International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF) grew to 46 in Q2 2023, from 41 in the previous quarter. The collective value of these stakes is over $2.28 billion.

9. UGI Corporation (NYSE:UGI)

Year-to-Date Share Price Drop as of September 13: 37.3%

UGI Corporation (NYSE:UGI) is a natural gas distribution company that also offers other related services to its consumers. The stock is down by 37.3% since the start of 2023 due to its uncertain financial position. In the most recent quarter, the company's revenue fell by 18% on a year-over-year basis and also missed analysts' estimates by $150 million. It is among the worst-performing dividend stocks on our list.

According to Insider Monkey's database of Q2 2023, 22 hedge funds owned stakes in UGI Corporation (NYSE:UGI), up from 20 in the previous quarter. The collective value of these stakes is over $180.5 million.

First Pacific Advisors mentioned UGI Corporation (NYSE:UGI) in its Q2 2023 investor letter. Here is what the firm has to say:

UGI Corporation (NYSE:UGI) owns gas utilities and pipelines in Pennsylvania and West Virginia and the largest propane distribution businesses in the United States and Europe. This is our kind of company  despite the disparate parts, UGI grows earnings at a relatively steady high single digit rate over the long term while distributing excess cash through dividends.25 Shares are down due to a collection of short-term issues  driver shortages at the US propane business, losses from fixed priced contracts at the European energy marketing business, lower propane volumes in Europe and warmer weather. We believe the company is attractive at less than 10x earnings and we have been incrementally adding.

8. The AES Corporation (NYSE:AES)

Year-to-Date Share Price Drop as of September 13: 38.6%

The AES Corporation (NYSE:AES) is a global energy company that operates in the power generation and utility sector. The company's balance sheet and increasing debt have been gaining a lot of attention from analysts this year. As of June 30, it had a net debt of over $24.5 billion, compared to shareholders' equity of $6.04 billion. The stock has generated negative returns of 38.6% since the beginning of 2023, which makes it one of the worst performing dividend stocks on our list.

At the end of Q2 2023, 36 hedge funds in Insider Monkey's database owned investments in The AES Corporation (NYSE:AES), down from 44 in the previous quarter. The consolidated value of stakes owned by these hedge funds is over $946.7 million.

Year-to-Date Share Price Drop as of September 13: 42.5%

Macy's, Inc. (NYSE:M) is next on our list of the worst performing dividend stocks on our list. The American department store chain has been experiencing retail weaknesses since the start of the year and it also slashed its fiscal year guidance after its Q1 report. The stock has delivered a negative return of 42.5% in 2023 so far.

As of the close of Q2 2023, 33 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey reported having stakes in Macy's, Inc. (NYSE:M), growing from 28 in the previous quarter. The consolidated value of these stakes is over $675 million.

6. Medical Properties Trust, Inc. (NYSE:MPW)

Year-to-Date Share Price Drop as of September 13: 43.02%

Medical Properties Trust, Inc. (NYSE:MPW) is an American real estate investment trust company that specializes in healthcare-related properties. The significant drop in the company's share price happened because Steward Health Care System ended its leases for five Utah hospitals in May and then leased them to CommonSpirit. Additionally, there was a $95 million rent write-off, which also contributed to the decline. The stock is down 43.02% year-to-date, which makes it one of the worst-performing dividend stocks on our list.

The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE:KO), Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL), and AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV) have also reported negative returns this year so far.

As of the end of the June quarter of 2023, 20 hedge funds in Insider Monkey's database held stakes in Medical Properties Trust, Inc. (NYSE:MPW), with a total value of roughly $170 million.

Click to continue reading and see 5 Worst Performing Dividend Stocks YTD.

Suggested articles:

Disclosure. None. 15 Worst Performing Dividend Stocks YTD is originally published on Insider Monkey.
In this article, we will look at the 16 biggest food exporters in Europe with insights into factors like the value of food exports, and the growth rate. For a quick overview of the 5 biggest food exporters in Europe, read our article 5 biggest food exporters in Europe.

European countries are known for their delicious food and export billions of dollars annually. From France's cheese and wine to Italy's pasta and pizza, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Europe's food export to the world has driven the economy of the continent. European nations, renowned for their culinary traditions and stringent quality standards, have forged a global reputation for producing premium food products. Since the start of 2022, the European Union has reached a total of 369 billion in agri-food trade, 23% more than they did during the same time in 2021 (from January to November). These exports encompass diverse goods, from fine wines and cheeses to chocolates, olive oils, and processed foods.

Moreover, the European Union (EU) is a major global food and beverage market player. It tops the charts as the world's largest food and drink product exporter and the second-largest importer. Europe's food industry takes the lead in exporting processed agricultural products (PAPs), and it manages to maintain a favorable trade balance. However, over the last decade, Europe's share of the global export market has been on the decline, with Brazil and China emerging as strong competitors in the field.

Netherlands has emerged as a global exemplar by utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as vertical farming, innovative seed technology, and robotics. Through these advancements, the country has positioned itself as a leading model in global agricultural production and export, demonstrating the potential for sustainable and efficient farming practices. Netherlands has nearly 24,000 acres of crops flourishing within its extensive greenhouse facilities, an area nearly twice the size of Manhattan. These greenhouses in the Netherlands are super-efficient. They can produce as much on one acre as it would take 10 acres of regular farming. Dutch farms use just half a gallon of water to grow a pound of tomatoes, while the worldwide average is more than 28 gallons.

Story continues

Furthermore, Ukraine is a major global supplier of staple grains, such as wheat, corn, and barley. Russia's invasion has severely disrupted the country's agricultural sector, threatening food security worldwide. In 2021, Ukraine's agricultural exports totaled over $27 billion , accounting for 41% of the country's total exports. The World Food Program (WFP), a United Nations humanitarian organization, receives 40% of its wheat from Ukraine.

The European Union (EU) and its member states are the largest providers of development aid globally. In June 2022, EU countries supported a $8.57 billion commitment for 2020-2024 to help address the increasing and urgent food security needs. This commitment is part of the EU's broader efforts to boost global food security. EU countries also significantly contribute to global food security by exporting much of their agricultural production to developing nations. Over half of the EU's wheat exports go to Africa (Algeria, Morocco, Egypt, Nigeria) and Asia (Pakistan). The EU's food security commitment is a welcome step in addressing hunger and malnutrition worldwide.

A Look into the European Union Food Industry

Mondelez International Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLZ) is a global snacks company that produces and markets food and beverages, including cookies, crackers, chocolate, candy, gum, and cheese, with net revenues of approximately $31.5 billion in 2022. Mondelez International Inc. (NASDAQ:MDLZ) generates two-thirds of its revenue from developed markets and one-third from emerging markets, with the latter growing at over 12%. The company has 133 manufacturing plants on five continents and employs approximately 79,000 worldwide.

Nestle (OTCMKTS:NSRGY) is a Swiss multinational food and drink company in Europe. The company's products are sold under various brands, including Nescafe, Nespresso, KitKat, Maggi, and Stouffer's. In 2021, total reported sales rose by 3.3% to CHF 87.1 billion, with a 1.3% reduction due to foreign exchange effects. Nestle (OTCMKTS:NSRGY) expects organic sales growth of 6% to 8% in 2023, with 17.0% to 17.5% as underlying trading operating profit margin.

Diageo Plc (LON:DGE) is a British multinational alcoholic beverage company headquartered in London. The company's products are sold under various brands, including Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, Guinness, Baileys, and Captain Morgan. Diageo Plc (LON:DGE) is constantly developing new products and services to meet the needs of its customers and is committed to reducing its environmental impact and improving the lives of its stakeholders. In 2022, Diageo Plc's (LON:DGE) revenue was 20.56 billion, and its annual EPS was 21.85% more than as of 2021, i.e. 5.93. In 2022, Diageo sold 5.4 billion units of alcohol, and its retail sales value in the global alcohol market was $1.17 trillion.

Europe's Biggest Food Exporters

Nejron Photo/Shutterstock.com

Methodology

To rank the 16 biggest food exporters in Europe, we used two metrics, i.e., Value of Food Exports and Growth in Value of Food Exports (2021-2022). The data has been taken from Observatory of Economic Complexity.

We calculated average of both metrics and then ranked 16 biggest food exporters in Europe in descending order from 16 to 1 (based on average results), with 1 representing the biggest food exporter and 16 representing the lowest food exporter on our list.

With these details in mind, let's look at the 16 biggest food exporters of Europe.

Biggest Food Exporters of Europe

Romania

Food Export Value of 2021 (USD Billion): 3.32

Food export is a major part of Romania's economy. 2.9 million agricultural landowners in Romania account for one-third of the EU's agricultural holdings. 23% of Romanians are employed in agriculture, compared to the EU average of 4.9%. 70% of Romania's agri-food exports go to the EU. Major food imports 2018 were meat, edible fruits, protein meals, and dairy. Major exports were grains, oilseeds, live animals, and fats.

Portugal

Food Export Value of 2021 (USD Billion): 4.64

In 2021, Portugal's primary export destinations for food products were Spain, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Portugal's food and beverage exports encompass diverse items, including canned fish (including sardines and tuna), olive oil, wine, dairy products (including cheese), pastries, and preserved fruits. Portugal's exports of meat, fish, and seafood preparations totaled $403.83 million in 2022.

Sweden

Food Export Value of 2021 (USD Billion): 4.82

Swedish exports are concentrated in several key markets, with Denmark, Finland, Norway, and the United States being the largest individual destinations.

Hungary

Food Export Value of 2021 (USD Billion): 5.4

Hungary's agricultural trade balance is in surplus. Agricultural exports comprised 8.9% of the country's total exports in 2021. Hungary's total land area dedicated to arable land and permanent crops encompasses 4.3 million hectares (ha), with approximately 120 thousand ha under irrigation.

Czechia

Food Export Value of 2021 (USD Billion): 5.66

The agri-food sector is pivotal in the Czech Republic's economy, with farms spanning 44% of the country's land area. Key export products include milk, livestock, grains, sugar, and malt.

Switzerland

Food Export Value of 2021 (USD Billion): 5.82

In 2022, food exports from Switzerland accounted for 2.6% of total merchandise exports. Although Switzerland's food exports have fluctuated substantially recently, they have generally declined from 1973 to 2022.

Denmark

Food Export Value of 2021 (USD Billion): 7.52

Denmark is the sole country in the Nordic-Baltic region, boasting a surplus in agricultural product exports, producing three times its domestic food requirements.

Greece

Food Export Value of 2021 (USD Billion): 6.73

Greek food product exports surged by 10.6% in 2020, reaching a total value of $7 billion. Greece exports food to many countries, but its top five export destinations are Italy, Germany, Turkey, Cyprus, and Bulgaria. Particularly, cheese, table olives, olive oil, and cotton constitute the core Greek exports, making up 28.7% of the total product exports in value.

Austria

Food Export Value of 2021 (USD Billion): 10.5

In 2021, Austria's agricultural and related products imports amounted to $21.1 billion, while its exports reached $23.6 billion.

United Kingdom

Food Export Value of 2021 (USD Billion): 19

In 2022, United Kingdom food and beverage exports achieved unprecedented heights, surpassing pre-pandemic levels across most categories.

Spain

Food Export Value of 2021 (USD Billion): 21.3

Spain is net seafood exporter and it reached a record high of $5.9 billion in 2022, up 3.4% from 2021. The Spanish food industry is the top export sector, accounting for 22% of GDP. Olive oil, wine, canned foods, and cheese are the best sellers, especially in the EU. Spanish agri-food and fishing exports increased by 2.7%.

Click to continue reading and see 5 Biggest Food Exporters in Europe.

Suggested Articles:

Disclosure. None. 16 Biggest Food Exporters in Europe is originally published on Insider Monkey.
In this article, we shall discuss 18 Countries with GDPR-like data privacy laws. To skip our detailed analysis of the economic implications of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the advent of the European Union's new digital strategy, go directly and see 5 Countries with GDPR-like Data Privacy Laws.

As consumers swarm towards digital technology in the twenty first century, the copious amounts of data generated is an enormous opportunity for companies to build on their consumer engagement mechanisms. Furthermore, insights from consumer data also aid in the optimization of product development, personalized advertising and marketing, with the total global value of digital advertising rising upwards of $300 billion as of 2020 according to McKinsey.

However, there is also an increasing responsibility on companies like Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG), Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) and other companies which rely on consumer data to adequately secure and protect consumer data. This responsibility was brought to light especially after the Cambridge Analytica scandal broke out across Europe and the United States in 2018. You can read more about the impact of the scandal in our article "Top 25 Countries With the Most Facebook Users". Two months post the scandal, the European Union implemented the GDPR, a new regulatory regime to conduct business and manage consumer data in Europe. Although it primarily regulates the EU, the jurisdiction of the regime has had global implications. Since 2018, many countries around the world have adopted GDPR-like data privacy laws. Provisions within the GDPR also affect international enterprises with customers or employees in Europe as well as those serving as data processors in Europe or for European companies.

The GDPR: Five Years On

The GPRR has widely been hailed as the gold standard when it comes to regulating how companies use and secure consumer data. However, as governments in the EU and in countries with GDPR-like data privacy laws learn how to navigate the intricacies of artificial intelligence (AI), gig workers and the ever-growing data needs of corporations, implementation of the GDPR has not been quite as smooth-sailing as initially postulated, according to an article by Bloomberg.

Story continues

Passed in 2018, the multibillion-euro fines promised by the GDPR are only just starting, the first of which was a 1 billion penalty for Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META) in May 2023. This was largely due to the fact that regulators have been constrained by insufficient funds, complex procedural labyrinths and much infighting on implementation. The economic environment this created was incredibly difficult for companies to navigate, largely due to the endless bureaucratic hurdles.

According to Bloomberg, a glaring lacuna in the GDPR's operationalization is the incumbency to put national enforcers in charge of holding tech companies like Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG), and Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) to account. The EU has tried to remedy this by assigning enforcement duties of major tech companies to the European Commission. But the EU's executive arm is severely stretched for resources, funds, expertise and time. This is a huge problem, especially when the EU will need to defend its decisions when companies inevitably litigate their penalization. Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META) has already appealed the latest fine levied by authorities in Ireland.

The GDPR has led to many companies and officials to consider reducing their presence in Europe significantly, or even halt services in entire jurisdictions. However, as we expanded upon in our article "15 Countries That Banned ChatGPT", when Italy stopped the rollout of ChatGPT in April 2023 over data privacy concerns, critics were quick to point out that the move wouldn't incumber the progress of AI but just divert it to China and the U.S. Legislators within the EU have deliberated on the possible flaws within the GDPR and in light of the development of AI, are diverting all attention to the EU digital strategy 2025.

The EU Digital Strategy: A Deeper Look

The data regulations that govern the EU, one of the world's most lucrative economic blocs, have recently been pushed into mainstream discourse, primarily due to the GDPR and the rulings around Schrems II - whereby the Court of Justice of the EU ruled that data privacy had certain limitations due to domestic law in the United Statesas well as use by US authorities of personal data EU residents, and other recent developments such as e-privacy. While these developments have transformed the way in which companies interact with consumer data not only in the EU but also in countries with GDPR-like data privacy laws, they have been unable to facilitate seamless data exchange between companies.

According to an assessment by McKinsey, this inability has created space for further regulatory activity aimed at the systematic uplift of European data capabilities, facilitation of a market for data, and AI regulation. Widely termed the EU digital strategy, it is a collection of several acts that are set come into effect post-Spring 2023. It offers American players like Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG), Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) and other advertising companies which leverage consumer data to generate income, enormous competitive advantages and opportunities, driving investor optimism towards these stocks in 2023.

Firstly, the possibility of data sharing will open new avenues to attract customers and ensure no natural advantages are created through the infeasibility of transferring end-user data. Secondly, the possibility to reduce market power of gatekeeper platforms mitigates the risk of transferring infrastructure to a major cloud providers, as it minimizes the potential challenges in facing arbitrary service cancellations. Lastly, safeguards afforded to end-user rights associated with AI create new market opportunities where identifying low-risk algorithms become a paramount objective, thereby facilitating companies in areas where they had already created legacy algorithms.

To read more on how companies like Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) and Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) can capitalize on the opportunities presented by this new legal regime in the EU, you can check out Insider Monkey's coverage of "4 Ways Your Data Management Practices Can Build Consumer Trust"

Best Advertising Agency Stocks to Buy

Photo by austin-distel on Unsplash

Our Methodology

To compile our list of the 18 countries with GDPR-like data privacy laws, we identified four defining features of the GDPR to act as key criteria for inclusion: (1) extra-territoriality (2) data export regulation (3) data protection legislation and (4) penalties and enforcement. Next, we assigned each criterion a score as follows: Extra-territoriality (4 points), data export regulation (3 points), data protection legislation (2 points), and penalties and enforcement (1 point).

Thereafter, we used DLA Piper's data privacy law database to collect information on each country's data privacy laws and practices compared to the GDPR and evaluated each country's alignment with the criteria, assigning scores out of 10 based on our research. Based on their total scores, the countries were ranked from lowest to highest, with the highest total score indicating the strongest alignment of the country's data privacy law with the GDPR. Where there was a tie, we broke it based on the date the data protection legislation of the country was passed.

18 Countries with GDPR-like Data Privacy Laws

18. Kenya

Average Score: 3

As the country with the lowest alignment with the GDPR, Kenya is the first entry on our list of 18 countries with GDPR-like data privacy laws. A signatory of the Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, which was largely modeled after the GDPR, Kenya's Data Protection Act was enacted in 2019 and is the primary legislation regulating data privacy in the country. According to a report by PwC, some of the key provisions of the GDPR enforceable in Kenya under the Data Protection Act 2019 largely pertain to personal data regulations and penalties for non-compliance.

17. Chile

Average Score: 3

After the 2018 amendment to the Chilean constitution wherein data privacy was enshrined as a human right, the country's Ley 19,628 data privacy law has bolstered data privacy protection in Chile to GDPR-like levels. The law mandates the establishment of a personal data protection agency, in addition to regulation regarding data retention, collection, and transfer. Although not as high as the GDPR, the law also contains fines for non-compliance which are proportional to global annual turnover.

16. India

Average Score: 4

Although some of its policies are not clearly laid out and increased discretion of implementation lies with the country's Central Government, India's Personal Data Protection Bill has largely been modelled after the GDPR. Similar to other developing countries with GDPR-like data privacy laws, the PDPB mandates consent of data subjects, breach notification requirements, a right to be forgotten, and heavy fines for noncompliance.

15. Japan

Average Score: 4

Japan's Act on Protection of Personal Information, like the GDPR, applies to foreign and domestic companies which process the data of Japanese citizens. More recently in 2020, Japan and the European Commission entered into an agreement on reciprocal adequacy of their respective data protection regulations. This means that data subjects in the EU have legal recourse for violation of their data privacy rights by Japanese companies and vice versa.

14. New Zealand

Average Score: 4

New amendments to the country's 1993 Privacy Act came into effect on the 1st of December 2020. Although the amendments bear affinity to the GDPR in that they require companies to notify authorities of any data breaches and the introduce new restrictions to offshore data transfer, the fines for non-compliance are much lower than that of the GDPR. Furthermore, the restrictions on offshore data transfer don't apply to cloud servers, a majority of which are based out of New Zealand.

13. China

Average Score: 5

China's Personal Information Protection Law came into effect in November 2021. With its extraterritorial applicability and enormously high noncompliance fines, the PIPL has drawn frequent comparisons to the GDPR. The mechanisms involved the ensuring compliance with each regulation leaves little space for any errors on part of the companies.

12. Israel

Average Score: 5

Israel's Data Security Regulations of 2017 contain many of the same ideas as the GDPR, so much so that the European Commission has ruled that Israel's data protection legislation is adequate for data export under the GDPR. This means that Israeli companies that process and retain European consumer data and vice versa, substantially boosting the data sector in Israel.

11. Turkey

Average Score: 5

Turkey's Law on Personal Data Protection 2016 (LPDP) is largely borrows much of its regulations from the EU Directive 95/46/EC and after numerous amendments, is becoming increasingly similar to the GDPR. Much like the GDPR, the legislation now regulates data retention, deletion, and anonymization; registration of data controllers, and specifications for processing special categories of personal data.

10. South Africa

Average Score: 5

Although the two regulations have multiple points of difference, organizations which are compliant with the GDPR will have a substantial head start with respect to South Africa's Protection of Personal Information Act 2013 (POPIA). Like the GDPR, POPIA applies to all organizations regardless of size. Furthermore, GDPR's data export regulations apply fully to POPIA. A fundamental point of divergence between the two legal regimes are with respect to the penalties for non-compliance.

9. Egypt

Average Score: 6

Egypt's Personal Data Protection Law 2020 (PDPL) applies to all organizations which process or retain Egyptian consumer data inside and outside the country. Furthermore, it mandates responsibility on all companies to report any data breaches to proper authorities within 72 hours. And although fines are relatively less harsh than those of the GDPR, the PDPL's reputation as one of the strictest data privacy laws in the world makes it a strong contender on our list of 18 countries with GDPR-like data privacy laws.

8. Switzerland

Average Score: 6

Next on our list of the 18 countries with GDPR-like data privacy laws is Switzerland's Federal Act on Data Protection 2020 (FADP). It was revised in August 2023, not only to strengthen data privacy regulations in general but also to create stronger alignment with the GDPR. Like the GDPR, the FADP has extraterritorial scope. Furthermore, when it comes to data processing principles, scope of what defines "personal data", and data subject rights, the FADP borrows much of the language from the GDPR.

7. South Korea

Average Score: 6

Since its inception in September 2011, South Korea's Personal Information Protection Act has included many GDPR-like data privacy provisions, including requirements for consensual use of consumer data, the extra-territorial scope of applicable data, appointment of a Chief Privacy Officer, and limitation and justification of data retention periods.

6. Australia

Average Score: 7

The Federal Privacy Act of 2018 is Australia's fundamental legal regime that regulates data privacy and protection across the country. Borrowing statutes from the GDPR, organizations with annual turnovers of three million AUD are required to disclose data breaches that pose "real threat of serious harm" or face monetary fines. The extraterritorial application of the Federal Privacy Act only applies to jurisdictions which have an Australian link. Australia is only number 6 on our list of 18 countries with GDPR-like data privacy laws.

Click to continue reading and see 5 Countries With GDPR-like Data Privacy Laws.

Suggested Articles:

Disclosure: None. 18 Countries With GDPR-like Data Privacy Laws is originally published on Insider Monkey.
SEOUL, South Korea, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Great Place to Work, a global evaluation organization established in 1990, conducts research on trust management and disseminates it in collaboration with 150 countries worldwide, including the United States, Europe, and Japan. The organization selects and announces, "Best Workplaces" in each country, such as the "Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For" in the United States, "100 Best Workplaces in Europe," "100 Best Workplaces in Latin America," and "Best Workplaces in Asia."

Best Workplaces Asia 2023 (PRNewsfoto/Great Place To Work Korea)

The "Best Workplaces in Asia" is a system that selects companies embodying the highest levels of trust management in Asia. It begins by identifying top companies as candidates for being great places to work in 15 Asian countries. These candidates undergo evaluation through the "Trust Index" measurement, which assesses factors such as management systems, innovation, GWP (Great Place to Work) activities, and performance. Additionally, an assessment called "Culture Audit" evaluates organizational culture management practices. Through these evaluations, the system aims to identify companies in Asia that have achieved the highest standards of trust management.

Great Place to Work surveyed over 5.9 million employees from more than 2,400 companies across 15 diverse Asian countries, including Korea, Greater China (China, Hong Kong, Taiwan), Bangladesh, India, Japan, Malaysia, and others. Based on this extensive survey, they selected and announced the "2023 Best Workplaces in Asia," comprising the top 200 companies in the region.

(PRNewsfoto/Great Place To Work Korea)

DHL Express has been selected as the number one company in the MNC (Multinational Corporation) category for "Best Workplaces in Asia 2023," marking its fifth consecutive year at the top.

(PRNewsfoto/Great Place To Work Korea)

3ALogic Co., Ltd. is a core component developer in the IoT field and is the first company to develop NFC/RFID Reader chips and NFC Dynamic Tag chips in Korea.

Story continues

NFC Reader Chip maintains more than 60% of the domestic digital door lock market.

It also developed NFC Chip products for automobiles and received NFC Forum CCC Digital Key Reader parts certification and AEC-Q100 certification, a semiconductor reliability standard for automobiles.

Certified NFC Chip products have been adopted and supplied to automobile door handles and in-vehicle wireless chargers.

NFC Tag Chip products are the No. 1 market share in the Electronic Shelf Label (ESL) field in Korea, and NFC Tag Chip genuine product certification field is also leading the market.

Based on these technologies, it was selected as Korean strong small company and Korean global Star Fabless companies.

As such, 3ALogics has established itself as a leading company in the NFC field and is a small fabless company that continues to develop new NFC-related technologies such as wireless power transmission and sensors.

(PRNewsfoto/Great Place To Work Korea)

GS Retail has been running various programs to enhance employee job satisfaction. Through initiatives such as the D&I (Diversity and Inclusion) Committee and the Hanulim Consultative Council, they have been able to identify the needs of their employees. The D&I Committee specifically focuses on understanding the demands of the millennial and Gen Z employees.

(PRNewsfoto/Great Place To Work Korea)

Under Armour Korea (Ltd.) proudly ranked third in the Small & Medium category, representing South Korea.

Under Armour Korea received positive evaluations for respecting the individual values of employees and creating a flexible organizational culture that supports maintaining work-life balance through various welfare programs. In fact, survey results showed that 99% of employees responded positively, stating that their company is a great place to work when considering all aspects. This achievement marks their first attempt at being ranked as the number one company in the "2023 Best Workplaces in South Korea" list.

Under Armour Korea values and respects the individual worth of each employee while implementing diverse welfare programs to help them maintain a healthy work-life balance.

(PRNewsfoto/Great Place To Work Korea)

Daewoong Pharmaceutical announced that it has been ranked 16th in the large enterprise category of the "Best Workplaces in Asia" organized by GPTW. This achievement adds to their previous accolades, including being named as the Best Workplace in South Korea, Best Workplace for Millennials in South Korea, Best Workplace for Working Mothers in South Korea, and receiving recognition as one of the most respected CEOs in South Korea.

Daewoong Pharmaceutical is recognized as one of the top pharmaceutical companies in South Korea. In this evaluation of the best workplaces in Asia, they achieved first place among domestic winners in the Large category.

(PRNewsfoto/Great Place To Work Korea)

Atomy has been selected as one of the "Best Workplaces in Asia" for two consecutive years. Additionally, Chairman Han-Gil Park has been recognized as one of the "Most Respected CEOs in South Korea" for two consecutive years.

Atomy's organizational management is characterized by a series of radical innovations. From commuting to approval processes, almost everything is based on employee autonomy. The entire company implements a flexible seating policy where employees can work from their preferred seats without the need to worry about their superiors.

Contact:

kr_contact@greatplacetowork.com

+82-02-780-5400

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/2023-9th-best-workplaces-in-asia-gptw-surveyed-in-15-countries-2400-companies-total-of-5-9-million-participants-301927282.html

SOURCE Great Place To Work Korea
Jonathan Weiss / Shutterstock.com

The fall season has arrived at Trader Joes! Throughout September, Trader Joes shoppers can stock up on returning favorites as well as tasty new offerings promoted in Trader Joes Fearless Flyer without breaking the bank.A

If youre making a grocery list for Trader Joes, make sure to shop these seven must-haves in September.

I Stopped Shopping at Dollar Tree: Heres Why

Read More: How To Get Cash Back on Your Everyday Purchases

Apple Cider Donuts

Trader Joes apple cider donuts headline the first page in the Fearless Flyer for a good reason. Theyre full of fresh-from-the-orchard flavor and priced affordably. Each box contains six donuts for $4.49, meaning Trader Joes shoppers pay less than 75 cents per donut.

Find Out: Are These 8 Costco Items With Cult Followings Worth the Hype (and Money)?

Honeycrisp Apples

Selling these honeycrisp apples for $1.29 each is one of Trader Joes ways of ensuring customers get the best possible price.

Many retailers sell honeycrisp apples by the pound and customers may assume theyre getting a good deal because of it. However, the Fearless Flyer said Trader Joes by-the-each pricing makes sure customers get the best possible value, since the average honeycrisp apple can weigh close to a pound on its own.

Ground Turkey

Cool weather months mean its time to cook comfort foods like casseroles and meatloaf for weeknight dinners. Trader Joes ground turkey not only cooks quickly but has a price tag shoppers will love at $4.49 per pound.A

Shawarma Chicken Thighs

At Trader Joes, each random weight package of the Shawarma Chicken Thighs sells for $6.99 per pound every day. As an added cooking bonus, these thighs come fully seasoned. Their spice marinade consists of onion, garlic, sea salt, cumin, cinnamon, coriander, paprika, turmeric and parsley.

Mushroom & Black Truffle Flatbread

Take your pizza night to the next level. Instead of ordering pizza, splurge on Trader Joes mushroom and black truffle flatbread. Each flatbread is made in Italy, and its a buy which is easy on your wallet at $5.49.

Story continues

Molasses Cookies

We crunched the numbers, and if you consider how each package of Trader Joes molasses cookies includes 12 cookies for $4.49, youre paying around 41 cents per cookie. Who could pass up such a sweet deal?

Harvest Blend Herbal Tea

No fall season is complete without cups of warm, soothing tea to enjoy. Trader Joes harvest blend herbal tea sells 20 bags for $2.49. This breaks down to around 12 cents per cup  a price we cant help but fall for.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 7 Best Items To Buy at Trader Joes This September
(Bloomberg) -- Adobe Inc. provided a sales outlook that met analysts expectations, but disappointed investors who expected demand for the companys artificial intelligence tools would boost revenue.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Sales will be $4.98 billion to $5.03 billion in the period ending in November, the San Jose, California-based company said Thursday in a statement. Analysts, on average, projected $5 billion, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Profit, excluding some items, will be as much as $4.15 a share, compared with the average estimate of $4.06.

Adobe, the longtime leader in creative software for graphic arts professionals, is adding generative AI features throughout its products. Citing the new tools, the company is raising prices for its products beginning Nov. 1, and will charge additional fees for power-users of the AI features. Analysts expect the new AI pricing to lift revenue quickly, with Jake Roberge, an analyst at William Bair, estimating the bump at more than $600 million over the next year. Bloomberg Intelligences Anurag Rana projects a 10% sales increase in the first year of availability.

We are unleashing a new era of AI-enhanced creativity around the world with innovations across our product portfolio, Chief Executive Officer Shantanu Narayen said in the statement.

Some analysts expressed caution about whether the price increase would affect demand. We do see more risk around this years price increase given the company just raised prices 18 months ago, and the competitive landscape is rapidly evolving, Tyler Radke, an analyst at Citigroup, wrote ahead of the results.

The company said fiscal fourth-quarter sales in the Digital Media unit, which includes signature offerings such as Photoshop, will be as much as $3.7 billion, beating the average estimate of $3.66 billion. Revenue in the Digital Experience unit, which includes marketing and analytics software, will be about $1.26 billion, meeting the average projection.

Story continues

The shares were little changed in extended trading after closing at $552.16 in New York. The stock has rallied 64% this year.

Fiscal third-quarter sales increased 10% to $4.89 billion, exceeding the average projection of $4.87 billion. Profit, excluding some items, was $4.09 a share, compared with the average estimate of $3.98.

Digital Media revenue gained 11% to $3.59 billion in the period ended Sept. 1. Sales in Digital Experience jumped 10% to $1.23 billion.

The company, fighting to keep its top spot in creative software, has proposed a $20 billion acquisition of design startup Figma. That effort has been complicated by an in-depth review and potential lawsuit from US regulators.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Spring and Summer geophysical and drilling programs in 2023 have significantly advanced the Storm Project on several fronts:

Sediment Hosted Copper Discovery

Discovery of multiple regional scale sediment hosted copper systems, as evidenced by intersections of what appears to be stratiform chalcocite (copper sulfide) mineralization as predicted by both the geological and geophysical models - the discovery has similarities to the world-class copper belts in Central Africa and Botswana

Confirmation of geophysical methods effective at targeting sediment-hosted copper mineralization: both gravity and deeper electromagnetic (EM) anomalies have been shown to be strongly associated with sulfide mineralization

Significant kilometre-scale historical gravity anomalies that conform to the predictive geological model remain untested and are priority targets for follow-up modern geophysical surveys this coming spring and drilling in summer 2024

New Near-Surface Copper Discoveries

76 metres (m) of visual heavily mineralized breccia to massive copper sulfide (chalcocite, bornite and chalcopyrite) at "Thunder" and 19m of strong visual copper sulfide mineralization at "Lightning Ridge"

Ground Truthing of "Tempest" Copper Gossans

Chalcocite, malachite and sphalerite at surface along 4km gossan trend, 40km south of Storm mineralization

Delineation Drilling and Near-Term Development Potential

Continuity of the near-surface copper mineralization confirmed in over 10,000m of Reverse Circulation (RC) and core drilling: 41m @ 4.18% Cu from 38m downhole, including 5m @ 24.28% Cu from 48m downhole (ST22-05) and 46m @ 2.2% Cu from 64m downhole, including 15.6m @ 4.2% Cu from 65m downhole (SM23-02) (all core lengths).

Maiden copper resources anticipated Q4 2023, with environmental, processing and metallurgical studies underway

American West has completed the exploration expenditure requirement to earn an 80% interest in the Storm Project

Assays are pending for 29 drill holes from the 2023 drill program - including those for the deep sediment hosted copper discovery holes as well as those from the Thunder and Lightning Ridge discoveries - with results expected over the coming weeks

Story continues

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / Aston Bay Holdings Ltd. (TSXV:BAY)(OTCQB:ATBHF) ("Aston Bay" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an interim summary of the spring and summer 2023 exploration programs at the Storm Copper Project ("Storm" or the "Project") on Somerset Island, Nunavut, Canada with the field component now concluded. The program was conducted by American West(as defined below), who is the operator of the Project. Aston Bay is also pleased to report that American West has successfully completed the minimum exploration expenditure required to earn an 80% undivided interest in the Project.

As previously disclosed, Aston Bay entered into an Option Agreement dated March 9, 2021 (the "Option Agreement") with American West Metals Limited and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Tornado Metals Ltd. (collectively, "American West") pursuant to which American West was granted an option (the "Option") to earn an 80% undivided interest in the Project by spending a minimum of CAD$10 million on qualifying exploration expenditures ("Expenditures"). The parties amended and restated the Option Agreement as of February 27, 2023 to facilitate American West potentially financing the Expenditures through flow-through shares but did not change the commercial agreement between the parties.

The Expenditures were completed during the 2023 drilling program and American West is expected to exercise the Option in accordance with the terms of the Option Agreement, as amended. Upon exercise of the Option, American West and Aston Bay will form an 80/20 unincorporated joint venture and enter into a joint venture agreement. Under such agreement, Aston Bay shall have a free carried interest until American West has made a decision to mine upon completion of a bankable feasibility study, meaning American West will be solely responsible for funding the joint venture until such decision is made. After such decision is made, Aston Bay will be diluted in the event it does not elect to contribute its proportionate share and its interest in the Project will be converted into a 2% net smelter returns royalty if its interest is diluted to below 10%.

"The highlights outlined above speak to the quality of the work completed by American West and to their commitment to the partnership," stated Thomas Ullrich, CEO of Aston Bay.

"In addition to the discoveries made this season, two developments are critical: we have both a confirmed predictive geological model, as well as geophysical methods that produce anomalies that can only be explained by sulfide mineralization. This combination is very powerful in exploration, already providing discoveries and, we anticipate, more to come.

"We believe we have tapped into a significant stratiform sediment hosted copper system at depth at Storm but have so far only grazed the edge. The deep holes drilled this season have intersected chalcocite and other copper sulfides, confirming the model, but we believe this may be just a hint of what is to come. The combination of the predictive geological model, known mineralogical zonation and proven geophysical methods will allow refinement of our drill targeting to get to the cores of these mineralized zones in future programs.

"We are very pleased that American West has so successfully advanced Storm in such a short time. It is no surprise, given the calibre of their leadership. We look forward to further advancement and additional discovery with our ongoing partnership. With no expenditures required by Aston Bay until a positive production decision, Storm offers excellent optionality with potentially significant upside for Aston Bay's shareholders."

Figure 1: Location and claims block of the Storm Project.

STORM PROJECT - AN EMERGING COPPER OPPORTUNITY WITH GLOBAL SIGNIFICANCE

The Storm Project is located in a Tier 1 mining district with nearby past-producing mines including the Polaris Zinc-Lead mine (22Mt @ 14.1% Zn, 4% Pb) and the Nanisivik Zinc-Lead-Silver mine (18Mt @ 9% Zn, 0.7% Pb, 35g/t Ag).

Storm is located approximately 20km from the coast with access to a deepwater bay and a designated shipping route, providing robust logistics. The land package at Storm comprises 219,257 hectares and hosts over 110km strike length of prospective stratigraphy, representing a rare, district-scale opportunity.

Exploration at Storm has focused on two clear strategies: exploring the sediment-hosted copper potential predicted by the geological model, as well as defining a maiden resource and expanding the footprint of the high-grade, near-surface copper mineralization.

A broad range of geophysics has been deployed - including high-resolution Electromagnetics (EM), ground gravity and ground magnetics surveys - to establish targets for both resource expansion and exploration drilling. Approximately 11,290m of RC and diamond drilling have been completed by American West for a total of 73 drill holes.

Geophysics has proven to be a very effective targeting tool with the discovery of the regional scale sediment-hosted copper system as well as with expansion of the footprint of the near-surface mineralization, including the discovery of the Thunder and Lightning Ridge deposits. The positive gravity and EM anomalies extend for tens of kilometres within the Storm tenure and highlight the potential size of the Storm copper system and the significant exploration potential.

Under the new joint venture agreement, Aston Bay and American West plan to increase both the exploration and resource development programs at Storm with a ramp-up of activities during 2024.

Figure 2: Strong copper sulfide (chalcocite - dark grey) breccia fill and veining in exploration diamond drill hole ST23-02 from approximately 358.2m downhole. This mineralization is interpreted to be of the sediment hosted style and is one of five drill holes that have intersected the same prospective unit to date.

EMERGING REGIONAL-SCALE SEDIMENT HOSTED COPPER SYSTEM

The exploration completed by American West Metals during the earn-in period has delivered the significant discovery of stratiform sediment hosted-style copper sulfide mineralization as predicted by the geological model (Figure 2). The discovery has built on the assumptions that the near-surface more structurally controlled copper mineralization may be associated with a deeper, and potentially much larger, stratiform and/or structurally controlled copper system.

Five deep diamond exploration drill holes have tested the deeper system to date, one completed in 2022 and four drilled during the 2023 season, all to test the deeper stratiform sediment hosted copper system, with each of the holes designed to test different geophysical and structural targets (Figure 3). The drill holes were widely spaced between 600m and 2km apart over approximately two square kilometres. Significantly, all drill holes have intersected visual copper sulfide mineralization, including chalcocite (assays are still pending for the 2023 drill holes). The copper mineralization and geology within the drill holes are highly similar and suggest that the stratigraphy of the deeper mineralized system is laterally very extensive and potentially represents a stratiform system.

Figure 3: Plan view of the Storm area showing the gravity data interpretation, near-surface mineralization footprint (yellow), major faults, and diamond deep drill hole locations.

The Storm area shows clear geological similarities to many of the world's major stratiform sediment-hosted copper systems, including the deposits of the Kalahari Copper Belt (Botswana) and Central African Copper Belt (DRC, Zambia). These copper deposits typically have metre scale thicknesses and kilometre scale strikes of the mineralized zones.

Building on the encouraging results to date, surface geophysics will be extended into the Tornado and Blizzard areas - which extend for 10km from the known Storm discoveries - to follow up and capture higher resolution data over existing gravity and EM anomalies (Figure 4). Further drilling will be designed to scope out the extent of the large, stratiform sediment-hosted copper system.

Figure 4: Map of the Storm and Tornado/Blizzard areas showing the ground gravity survey data over Storm (2023 survey) and Tornado/Blizzard (2015 survey), overlaying the regional airborne gravity survey data (2017 Falcon Survey).

TEMPEST COPPER- ZINC PROSPECT

The Tempest Prospect is located approximately 40 kilometres south of the known discoveries at Storm. The area hosts widespread surface gossans with assays up to 32% copper. The copper gossans were historically defined over 250m within an area of Storm-style stratigraphy proximal to Proterozoic basement.

Reconnaissance sampling, EM surveys and field mapping during the 2023 field season was aimed at expanding the understanding of the area. The work has now extended the strike of Tempest to over 4km (Figure 5), with sampling identifying numerous copper and zinc gossans along this prospective trend (assays are pending).

The nature and style of base metal mineralization at Tempest remains under investigation. An extensive geophysical and proposed drilling program is planned to test this prospective area during 2024.

Figure 5: Photo of the Tempest copper and zinc gossans looking north. The brown-red rust-coloured gossans are indicative of potential base metal mineralization below surface and can be traced for over 4km along strike. Aston Bay CEO, Tom Ullrich, is seen at the right of the photo for scale.

NEAR-SURFACE COPPER MINERALIZATION AND OPEN PIT MINING POTENTIAL

The near-surface, high-grade copper mineralization at Storm has been defined over an area of approximately 50 hectares and within six main copper zones (Figure 6).

Infill drilling has initially been focused on the 2750N, 2200N and 4100N Zones, where high-grade copper mineralization had been previously discovered. The drilling successfully confirmed the continuity of the copper mineralization within these zones, and significantly expanded the footprint to include at least two new discoveries this season - Thunder and Lightning Ridge (see Aston Bay August 8 and September 5, 2023 press releases)

Assays have confirmed the quality of the near-surface mineralization including 41m @ 4.18% Cu from 38m downhole, including 5m @ 24.28% Cu from 48m downhole (ST22-05) and 46m @ 2.2% Cu from 64m downhole, including 15.6m @ 4.2% Cu from 65m downhole (SM23-02).

The work completed to date highlights the potential of the known near-surface mineralization to underpin a potential low cost, open pit copper mining opportunity. Processing and metallurgical test work has shown that the high-grade copper mineralization is amenable to simple beneficiation techniques - with test work producing a direct shipping product grading more than 50% Cu. Further test work is currently underway to optimize the processes and to determine a definitive flow sheet.

Drilling proposed for 2024 will aim to further expand the footprint of the copper mineralization, particularly around the significant new discoveries at Thunder and Lightning Ridge, and along strike into the Tornado and Blizzard areas.

Figure 6: Plan view of the Storm Prospect showing the near-surface copper mineralization footprint (including the Thunder and Lightning Ridge discoveries) and drilling, overlaying regional geology. Stated drill hole intersections are all down hole length, and true width is expected to be 60% to 100% of stated length.

SEAL ZINC-SILVER DEPOSIT

The Seal Zinc-Silver Deposit is located approximately 25km to the west and within a different stratigraphic horizon than the Storm Copper deposits. Seal contains an inferred, high-grade zinc and silver resource of 1Mt @ 10.24% Zn, 46.5g/t Ag for 103Kt Zn and 1.5Moz Ag (NI 43-101 resource, see January 17, 2018 Aston Bay news release).

The quality of the mineralization is highlighted by drilling intersections including 14.4m @ 10.58% Zn, 28.7g/t Ag from 51.8m and 22.3m @ 23% Zn, 5.1g/t Ag from 101.5m. The deposit remains open at depth and potentially along strike.

Isotopic analyses of the zinc-silver mineralization at Seal have confirmed that the mineralization is potentially related to the Polaris Deposit (22Mt @ 14.1% Zn, 4% Pb) in terms of time and style of mineralization and that it forms part of a regional scale mineralization system (see Mathieu, et al. 2018 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oregeorev.2018.06.009). Zinc geochemical anomalies have been delineated along the belt and prospective stratigraphy up to 100km south of the Seal Deposit.

About the Storm Copper and Seal Zinc-Silver Projects, Nunavut

The Nunavut property consists of 173 contiguous mining claims covering an area of approximately 219,257 hectares on Somerset Island, Nunavut, Canada. The Storm Project comprises both the Storm Copper Project, a high-grade sediment-hosted copper discovery (intersections including 110m* @ 2.45% Cu from surface and 56.3m* @ 3.07% Cu from 12.2m) as well as the Seal Zinc Deposit (intersections including 14.4m* @ 10.58% Zn, 28.7g/t Ag from 51.8m and 22.3m* @ 23% Zn, 5.1g/t Ag from 101.5m). Additionally, there are numerous underexplored and undrilled targets within the 120-kilometre strike length of the mineralized trend, including the Tornado copper prospect where 10 grab samples yielded >1% Cu up to 32% Cu in gossans.

Storm Discovery and Historical Work

High-grade copper mineralization was discovered at Storm in the mid-1990s by Cominco geologists conducting regional zinc exploration around their then-producing Polaris lead-zinc mine. A massive chalcocite boulder found in a tributary of the Aston River in 1996 was traced to impressive surface exposures of broken chalcocite mineralization for hundreds of metres of surface strike length at what became named the 2750N, 2200N, and 3500N zones. Subsequent seasons of prospecting, geophysics and over 9,000 m of drilling into the early 2000s confirmed a significant amount of copper mineralization below the surface exposures as well as making the blind discovery of the 4100N Zone, a large area of copper mineralization with no surface exposure.

Following the merger of Cominco with Teck in 2001 and the closure of the Polaris Mine, the Storm claims were allowed to lapse in 2007. Commander Resources staked the property in 2008 and flew a helicopter-borne VTEM survey in 2011 but conducted no additional drilling. Aston Bay subsequently entered into an earn-in agreement with Commander and consolidated 100% ownership in 2015. Commander retains a 0.875% Gross Overriding Royalty in the area of the original Storm claims.

In 2016 Aston Bay entered into an earn-in agreement with BHP, who conducted a 2,000-station soil sampling program and drilled 1,951m of core in 12 diamond drill holes, yielding up to 16m* @ 3.1% Cu. BHP exited the agreement in 2017 and retains no residual interest in the project. Aston Bay conducted a property-wide airborne gravity gradiometry survey in 2017 and drilled 2,913m in nine core holes in the Storm area in 2018 yielding a best intercept of 1.5m* @ 4.39% Cu and 20.5m* @ 0.56% Cu.

Agreement with American West Metals

An earn-in agreement for the Storm and Seal properties was signed with American West Metals in March 2021. Under the terms of the agreement, an expenditure of C$10m will earn 80% ownership of the property for American West. As noted in this release, the expenditures were completed during the 2023 drilling program, and American West is expected to exercise the Option in accordance with the terms of the Option Agreement. Aston Bay is carried for all expenditures to the completion of a feasibility study and positive production decision. If Aston Bay chooses not to participate and is diluted below 10% ownership, the ownership converts to a 2% Net Smelter Royalty, half of which is purchasable by American West for C$5m at first production. Aston Bay received a cash payment of C$500,000 on signing.

Recent Work

American West completed a fixed loop electromagnetic (FLEM) ground geophysical survey in 2021 that yielded several new subsurface conductive anomalies. A total of 1,534m were drilled in 10 diamond drill holes in the 2022 season, yielding several impressive near-surface intercepts including 41m* @ 4.1% Cu as well as 68m of sulfide mineralization associated with a deeper conductive anomaly.

In April 2022, results of beneficiation studies demonstrated that a mineralized intercept grading 4% Cu from the 4100N area could be upgraded to a 54% Cu direct ship product using standard sorting technology. Further beneficiation studies are ongoing.

In April 2023, American West embarked on a spring delineation drilling program using a helicopter-portable RC drill rig as well as conducting gravity and moving loop electromagnetic (MLEM) ground geophysical programs. Results from the programs are in process and are released as they come available.

The summer 2023 program planned further delineation drilling of the near-surface high-grade copper zones to advance them toward maiden resource estimates by late 2023 or early 2024. Diamond drilling is planned to test new high-priority gravity targets and environmental baseline studies will be initiated.

*Stated drill hole intersections are all core length, and true width is expected to be 60% to 100% of core length.

QA/QC Protocols

The analytical work reported on herein was performed by ALS Global ("ALS"), Vancouver Canada. ALS is an ISO-IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015 accredited geoanalytical laboratory and is independent of Aston Bay Holdings Ltd., American West Metals Limited, and the QP. Drill core samples were subject to crushing at a minimum of 70% passing 2 mm, followed by pulverizing of a 250-gram split to 85% passing 75 microns. Samples were subject to 33 element geochemistry by four-acid digestion and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) to determine concentrations of copper, silver, lead, zinc, and other elements (ALS Method ME-ICP61a). Overlimit values for copper (>10%) and were analyzed via four-acid digestion and ICP-AES (ALS Method Cu-OG62).

Aston Bay Holdings Ltd. and American West Metals Limited followed industry standard procedures for the work carried out on the Storm Project, incorporating a quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) program. Blank, duplicate, and standard samples were inserted into the sample sequence and sent to the laboratory for analysis. No significant QA/QC issues were detected during review of the data. Aston Bay Holdings Ltd. and American West Metals Limited are not aware of any drilling, sampling, recovery, or other factors that could materially affect the accuracy or reliability of the data referred to herein.

Qualified Person

Michael Dufresne, M.Sc., P.Geol., P.Geo., is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this press release.

About Aston Bay Holdings

Aston Bay is a publicly traded mineral exploration company exploring for high-grade copper and gold deposits in Virginia, USA, and Nunavut, Canada. The Company is led by CEO Thomas Ullrich with exploration in Virginia directed by the Company's advisor, Don Taylor, the 2018 Thayer Lindsley Award winner for his discovery of the Taylor Pb-Zn-Ag Deposit in Arizona. The Company is currently exploring the high-grade Buckingham Gold Vein in central Virginia and is in advanced stages of negotiation on other lands with high-grade copper potential in the area.

The Company is 100% owner of the Storm Project property, which hosts the Storm Copper Project and the Seal Zinc Deposit and has been optioned to American West Metals Limited.

About American West Metals Limited

AMERICAN WEST METALS LIMITED (ASX: AW1) is an Australian clean energy mining company focused on growth through the discovery and development of major base metal mineral deposits in Tier 1 jurisdictions of North America. Our strategy is focused on developing mines that have a low-footprint and support the global energy transformation. Our portfolio of copper and zinc projects in Utah and Canada include significant existing resource inventories and high-grade mineralization that can generate robust mining proposals. Core to our approach is our commitment to the ethical extraction and processing of minerals and making a meaningful contribution to the communities where our projects are located.

Led by a highly experienced leadership team, our strategic initiatives lay the foundation for a sustainable business which aims to deliver high-multiplier returns on shareholder investment and economic benefits to all stakeholders.

For further information on American West, visit: www.americanwestmetals.com.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements made in this news release, including those regarding the exercise of the Option, entering into the joint venture and each party's interest in the Project pursuant to the agreement in respect of the joint venture, management objectives, forecasts, estimates, expectations, or predictions of the future may constitute "forward-looking statement", which can be identified by the use of conditional or future tenses or by the use of such verbs as "believe", "expect", "may", "will", "should", "estimate", "anticipate", "project", "plan", and words of similar import, including variations thereof and negative forms. This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect, as of the date of this press release, Aston Bay's expectations, estimates and projections about its operations, the mining industry and the economic environment in which it operates. Statements in this press release that are not supported by historical fact are forward-looking statements, meaning they involve risk, uncertainty and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although Aston Bay believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which apply only at the time of writing of this press release. Aston Bay disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by securities legislation.

For more information contact:

Thomas Ullrich, Chief Executive Officer

thomas.ullrich@astonbayholdings.com

(416) 456-3516

Sofia Harquail, IR and Corporate Development

sofia.harquail@astonbayholdings.com

(647) 821-1337

SOURCE: Aston Bay Holdings Ltd





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/784010/aston-bay-and-american-west-metals-announce-field-season-summary-for-storm-copper-project-canada




After seeing the success of a pilot program that aims to ease food insecurity for the disabled community in Chicagos Austin neighborhood, organizers are looking to expand the program to serve 10 times as many clients.

The Mayors Office for People with Disabilities started the in-home delivery pilot in February with the help of the Vivery Idea Lab, an organization that aids food banks and pantries with a centralized find food map and digital tools. The program is a partnership with the Community Safety Coordination Center and the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

Each of the 100 participants receives a box of pantry staples at the beginning of the month from one of four food pantries in the area, including Mission of Our Lady of the Angels, Circle Urban Ministries, Hope Community Church and Iglesia Evangelica. The boxes are categorized as standard, vegetarian, dairy and nondairy. A box of produce is provided in the latter part of the month by either Forty Acres Fresh Market or Dions Chicago Dream, the nonprofit behind Dream Fridge, Dream Vault and Dream Deliveries, all of which aid residents living in food deserts across the city and suburbs, according to Ashley Friend, managing director of the Vivery Idea Lab.

Basically, by month three, we knew we had something special here that we wanted to keep going, said Friend, a former leader at Lakeview Pantry, which is now called Nourishing Hope. Vivery was built in partnership with the Food Depository to be a find food tool for food banks and pantries. We have been working in the Austin community for about 2 years, really trying to understand the local challenges to accessing nutritious food and trying to build technological solutions that can help to alleviate barriers.

The Thierer Family Foundation launched the endeavor and funded the first six months. The second six months are being funded by the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Friend said. And plans are being made to expand the pilot program to more recipients and more Chicago communities.

Story continues

As of August, the program has distributed over 27,000 pounds of food with more than 1,000 deliveries to 100 Austin residents. Friend says Vivery wants that number to grow to 1,000 people within the disabled community in five other neighborhoods in Chicago, including another 400 people in the Austin area. Replicating the Austin model, Vivery would to go into each community, connect with the leaders combating food insecurity and work with them to build the network further.

The Rev. Steve Epting of Hope Community Church said its food pantry has been active for 15 years. During the pandemic, he said, the pantry saw a 300% increase in clients. Epting said about 40% of the population that uses Hopes food pantry has some type of disability.

We serve on average about 1,000 people a month, so it only made sense of us to partner with Ashley and her team to ... be able to deliver to those in need, Epting said.

He added that the partnership between service agencies and the community is important to keep things growing. Having food access, having delivery, having people to sort and serve  all of those things dont come from one place, one source, Epting said. Its a collective partnership agreement that we have and we depend on each other to serve our community.

Vernia Palmer, a longtime Austin resident, signed up for the pilot because her mobility challenges made it difficult to get to a pantry and painful to wait in line for food. She called the program a blessing that benefits those like her.

A recent survey by Vivery showed that the average age of program participants is 56, and 85% are women with no children in the home. Survey participants said transportation, mobility challenges and wait times at food pantries were the biggest barriers they faced.

Many food pantries are in the basement, so you either have to use stairs, which make them not accessible, or you have people who have communication access needs or somebody whos been diagnosed with low vision who may not be able to navigate and need to be led through a food pantry or someone who is hard of hearing and may not feel welcome or be able to communicate at the pantry, said Rachel Arfa, commissioner for the Mayors Office for People with Disabilities.

Arfa said a benefit of the pilot program was the creation of 38 jobs for residents in the Austin and Garfield Park communities, so those who deliver the food to participants come from the community they serve.

Participants get the same set of drivers each time so they get to know the people, Friend said. We heard one story of one of the drivers setting up somebodys router for them.

Arfa talked about a participant who was excited to receive cherries in a delivery. The participant said itd been years since they had cherries. Friend said thats the kind of thing many people take for granted.

Arfa said the pandemic taught us how technology can be an effective tool. For example, it made the routing infrastructure more efficient for those at the food pantries and food banks. She hopes technology continues to help make lives easier for those in the disabled community.

With the pandemic, it became easier to expose the access gaps in our system. ... We want to make sure that nobody is left behind, Arfa said. One thing I think about is making sure that we dont forget the lessons we learned after the pandemic. Were not going back to what we had. We should continue to expand what we have learned and to match that going forward.

drockett@chicagotribune.com
Bridgestone, a global leader in tyres and solutions, has announced its first tyre manufacturing site to be verified as carbon neutral (scopes 1 and 2). The plant at Chakan in Pune, India, was audited in May and June 2023, and was subsequently verified according to the international PAS 2060 standard for the year 2022 by leading global assurance partner, LRQA.

The certification marks an important milestone in Bridgestones efforts to decarbonise its manufacturing capacity, towards the global target of carbon neutrality (Scope 1 and 2) by 2050 and a 50% reduction of CO2 emissions from its operations by 2030 versus the 2011 benchmark.

Carbon footprint reduction by 94pc

Bridgestones Pune manufacturing facility produces more than 4 million tyres per year. Over the years, the site has reduced its total carbon footprint by 94%, through a number of measures. These include for instance solar panels at the plant and a carbon neutral biomass-based boiler plant which uses carbon neutral biomass briquettes made from agricultural waste.

2,974t CO2 emissions at the site are offset via Bridgestone Indias purchase of Verified Carbon Standard credits from a bundled solar photovoltaic project by Acme, India. The project is designed to generate energy from solar panels that will be exported to the regional power grids in the Telangana, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan states in India.

As part of the PAS 2060 verification, the site has committed to a further CO2 reduction plan for the next three years.

Bridgestone is globally committed to the realisation of a carbon neutral mobility society and we in India are focused on this goal. Other than the solar power plant and the carbon neutral boiler, we have undertaken various measures at the shop-floor level too. We are continuing to replace diesel-based forklifts with electric powered ones and using electric power to replace LPG. Our future plans include further increasing the use of green energy, reducing carbon emissions in our overall operations and tracking scope 3 emissions, said Stefano Sanchini, Managing Director Bridgestone India.

Reliable data

This verification ensures that Bridgestone's reported data and information are reliable and supported by efficient management systems. After reviewing Bridgestone's information, we confirm its commitment with a decarbonisation strategy and we have been able to provide the verification statement PAS 2060 for Carbon Neutrality, Scope 1 and 2 for the Pune Plant. We are delighted to be part of Bridgestone's decarbonisation project, as our focus at LRQA is on supporting clients to ensure the trustworthiness of their sustainability strategies and climate change claims, said Olga Rivas, ESG Product Cluster Manager at LRQA.

Bridgestone sustainability efforts are a major part of Bridgestones vision to continue to provide social and customer value as a sustainable solutions company toward 2050. They are also the embodiment of the Bridgestone E8 Commitment  a set of eight areas (Energy, Ecology, Efficiency, Extension, Economy, Emotion, Ease, Empowerment) which provide a compass and guide Bridgestone to do business in a sustainable way.

Globally Bridgestone is guided by a deep-rooted mission of Serving Society with Superior Quality, and to provide social and customer value as a sustainable solutions company. Towards this end the company is committed towards the realisation of a carbon neutral mobility society. The carbon neutral certification of one of our two tyre plants in India is a historic landmark in the Companys commitment towards sustainability more so as Bridgestone has set a goal to become carbon neutral by 2050, in line with the Paris climate agreement said Koji Takagi, Chief Sustainability Officer, Bridgestone EMIA.-- TradeArabia News Service
FILE PHOTO: The National Australia Bank Logo is seen on a branch in central Sydney

By Navya Mittal and Echha Jain

(Reuters) - National Australia Bank (NAB) said on Thursday it would shut its Hong Kong branch, as offices in Singapore, Tokyo and Shanghai were its preferred customer outreach hubs in Asia.

The move is likely to impact about 50 roles in the Hong Kong, however, the lender said in a statement that its "too early" to confirm the impact of the branch closing.

"The decision probably reflects that foreign businesses are not finding operating conditions in Hong Kong as conducive as they once were," said Tim Waterer, chief market analyst at KCM Trade.

Shares jumped 0.8% to trade at A$29.22 as at 0322 GMT, after touching a two-week high of A$29.240 earlier in the session.

NAB's move follows peer Westpac, which ceased its operations in the region in June.

"Companies will often follow the path of least resistance when it comes to operating conditions 'on the ground' in oversees jurisdictions," said Waterer, adding that right now that path could be shifting in favour of places such as Singapore.

The office shutdown comes after Finance Sector Union said earlier this month that the bank was planning to cut 222 back-office jobs.

NAB anticipates the wind down in operations to take about 18 months.

(Reporting by Navya Mittal in Bengaluru; Editing by Subhranshu Sahu and Rashmi Aich)
Bed Bath & Beyond is pursuing over $50 million in claims against shipping lines. (Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves)

The ghost of bankrupt Bed, Bath & Beyond continues to haunt the container shipping industry, seeking payback for alleged wrongs suffered during the supply chain crisis.

Bed Bath & Beyond (BBBY) filed for bankruptcy protection on April 23. Its brand name was sold to Overstock in June. The liquidation of the BBBY estate is ongoing, with the bankruptcy administrator seeking to collect as much as it can via legal claims to help pay off creditors.

Court documents confirm that part of this collection plan specifically targets container shipping.

The first case was filed with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) against Hong Kong-based ocean carrier OOCL on April 27, seeking at least $31.7 million in compensation. The next was filed against Taiwanese ocean carrier Yang Ming on Tuesday, seeking at least $7.7 million.

The worlds largest liner operator, Switzerland-based Mediterranean Shipping Co. (MSC), recently confirmed in a BBBY bankruptcy court filing that it could be next in line.

According to MSC, Bed Bath & Beyond and its counsel threatened litigation against MSC if their settlement demands are not acceded to by MSC. BBBY maintains that it is entitled to recover tens of millions of dollars of damages from MSC, said the ocean carrier.





This would push BBBYs total legal claims against ocean carriers above the $50 million mark  and there might be more to come, beyond the three disputes that are known. According to court documents, BBBY also had contracts with Cosco, Evergreen, HMM and Wan Hai.

Bankruptcy plan targets price gouging claims

The amended bankruptcy plan specifically calls out container shipping cases and sets a formula for distribution of any future court winnings.

In a section entitled Shipping and Price Gouging Claims, the plan refers to money obtained by litigating ocean carriers alleged failure to comply with shipping regulations and laws, including pricing practices. (Despite numerous allegations of price gouging and collusion, the FMC found no evidence that pricing during the supply chain crisis was caused by collusion or illegal conduct; it said historically high freight rates were the product of the market forces of supply and demand. Rates have since fallen back to pre-COVID levels, confirming the role of market forces.)

Story continues

BBBY will give 80% of any shipping and price-gouging judgments to first-lien and debtor-in-possession lenders, both administered by Sixth Street Specialty Lending, with 20% going to the debtor or the successor entity.

BBBY hired law firm Huth Reynolds on March 23 to handle claims against shipping lines  a month prior to its Chapter 11 filing.

Claims against Yang Ming filed with FMC

Claims against Yang Ming were first revealed in a New York federal court filing by the ocean carrier on April 20. BBBYs allegations against Yang Ming, laid out in detail on Tuesday, mirror those it previously made against OOCL, albeit on a smaller scale.

BBBY is seeking compensation for Yang Mings alleged failure to meet the minimum quantity commitments (MQCs) under its service contract, forcing BBBY to seek carriage from other sources at higher rates. It claims damages of $6.6 million.

It further argued that Yang Mings levying of $294,841 in peak season surcharges (PSSs) was unjust and unreasonable.

Yang Mings behavior suggests a conscious pattern of entering into service contracts with shippers at quoted prices with the intention of not actually meeting its service commitments  at the agreed-upon rates. Instead, Yang Ming either imposed additional charges beyond the contract rates, such as PSSs, or neglected to provide transportation  at all.

BBBY also alleged that Yang Ming imposed $641,222 in improper demurrage charges and $99,569 in improper detention charges.

Yang Ming stated in April that the service contract provided no basis for pursuing money damages for [MQC] shortfalls.

According to BBBY, Astonishingly, Yang Ming has taken the position that its own service contract is illusory, and that Yang Ming is not subject to any service commitment whatsoever.

BBBY repeatedly demands payment from MSC

MSC said in a court filing on Aug. 31 that it received an initial demand letter from Huth Reynolds on April 28, five days after the Chapter 11 filing.

BBBY accused MSC of certain violations of the Shipping Act  arising from MSCs purported failure to fulfill its service commitments and its assessment of demurrage and detention charges  allegations that MSC disputes in their entirety.

In subsequent communications, [BBBY] and its counsel have continued to pursue such allegations against MSC, said the ocean carrier.

MSC has its own claims pending against Bed Bath & Beyond, totaling $2 million, plus additional amounts owed by certain other [BBBY] parties of over $1.8 million. It said it reserves the right to use any amounts due to offset, reduce or eliminate any liability  on account of any Shipping and Price Gouging Claims.

Long road ahead for claims against OOCL

The claim against OOCL, filed with the FMC on April 27, seeks $11.6 million for alleged failure to meet MQCs, $13.7 million for PSSs and $6.4 million for detention and demurrage charges.

OOCL countered with a stern rebuttal on May 23, alleging that the ex-retailer repeatedly and without explanation failed to manage its own supply chain, exacerbating the bottlenecks faced by other shippers and the ability of [OOCL] to reposition its containers to Asia in order to serve customers unprecedented demand for service.

It also argued that the FMC does not have jurisdiction to rule on alleged breaches of service contracts.

In June, BBBY filed a motion asking the FMC to render a partial judgment related to jurisdictional questions, prior to end of the discovery phase.

OOCL responded in July that if the FMC did so, it would be unprecedented in [FMC] practice. It warned that if the FMC granted BBBYs motion, OOCL would be entitled to appeal, and such a detour would delay progress on this dispute possibly a year or more.

Even if the motion for partial judgment is denied, the current schedule calls for the discovery phase to extend until mid-January 2024.

Attorney fees will pile up over time in all of the disputes between BBBY and the various carriers, fueled by the collection attempt of the bankruptcy administrator on behalf of priority lenders. Unlike other shipper plaintiffs, the administrator should have no concerns about burning bridges across the ocean carrier community. Future relationships are not a factor, as BBBY is now in liquidation mode and no longer importing cargo.

Click for more articles by Greg Miller

Related articles:

The post Bankrupt Bed Bath & Beyond targets more price-gouging shipping lines appeared first on FreightWaves.
Shutterstock / Shutterstock

Citing a need for fresh leadership, U.S. Senator Mitt Romney retire in January 2025, when his term ends.

See: How Rich Is Former President Donald Trump?

Find: How Much Is President Joe Biden Worth?

At the end of another term, Id be in my mid 80s, stated Romney. Frankly, its time for a new generation of leaders. Theyre the ones that need to make the decisions that will shape the world they will be living in.

How Big Is Mitt Romneys Social Security Check?

Senators are required to file financial disclosure paperwork on an annual basis, but because the forms allow for a wide range of asset values, it makes it hard to establish specific figures. But we already know that Romneys vast wealth isnt in question.

Included in his latest financial disclosure, filed on Aug. 10, 2023, Romney lists assets totaling millions of dollars, representing a broad spectrum  Goldman Sachs-issued mutual funds and IRAs, general trust accounts, ETFs, private equity and hedge fund investments, corporate securities, personal property and real estate.

Fulfilling a campaign promise to release three years of tax returns upon completion of his 2017 filing, Romney did so in March of 2018. In joint filings with his wife, Ann, Romney reported income totaling $83.8 million on his federal tax returns from 2015 to 2017.

The Romneys combined gross income  which includes earnings from family trusts intended to benefit their children and grandchildren  was $22.3 million in 2017, up from $20 million in 2016 but down from $41.5 million in 2015, the returns show.

In 2010 and 2011 returns released prior to running for president in 2012, and on his 2015 and 2016 filings, the Social Security benefits and taxable income lines 20a and 20b were left blank. However, for 2017, The Romneys claimed Social Security benefits of $42,085, with a taxable amount of $35,772. This equals $3,507 per month, slightly under the maximum of $3,538 for 2017.

The maximum monthly Social Security retirement benefit for a married couple in 2023 is $9,110 if each spouse waits until age 70 to receive benefits and paid the maximum Social Security tax over 35 years of earnings. For this year and beyond, the Romneys will likely be receiving the highest possible monthly Social Security payment (or close to it).

Story continues

Also: Grant Cardone Asks How Politicians That Make $100k Suddenly Become Multimillionaires  Heres the Harsh Reality

Mitt Romneys Net Worth

Back in 2012, when he was running as the Republican Party presidential nominee (eventually losing to Barack Obama), his campaign said his assets ranged between $190 million and $250 million. This was confirmed by The Associated Press at the time, per CBS News.

OpenSecrets had Romneys net worth valued at just under $175 million in 2018. Now, his net worth is estimated to be around 300 million, according to numerous sources, including Celebrity Net Worth.

Romney currently makes $174,000 per year as a senator, but his fortune was made in large part from his 1984 founding of Bain Capital, a spin-off of Bain & Company. Among others, he guided Bain Capital to become one of the leading private-equity firms in the world, making millions for the firm  and himself  in venture capital investments and leveraged buyouts.

He stayed with Bain Capital and Bain & Company in different capacities until 2002, before leaving to pursue a career in politics. Romney, a former Massachusetts governor from 2003 to 2007 and presidential candidate in 2012, was elected senator for Utah in 2018 following the retirement of Sen. Orrin Hatch.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: How Big Is Mitt Romneys Social Security Check?
Key Insights

Lalique Group's estimated fair value is CHF36.85 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

With CHF37.00 share price, Lalique Group appears to be trading close to its estimated fair value

Industry average of 16% suggests Lalique Group's peers are currently trading at a higher premium to fair value

Does the September share price for Lalique Group SA (VTX:LLQ) reflect what it's really worth? Today, we will estimate the stock's intrinsic value by taking the forecast future cash flows of the company and discounting them back to today's value. We will take advantage of the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model for this purpose. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward.

We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model.

Check out our latest analysis for Lalique Group

Crunching The Numbers

We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. Seeing as no analyst estimates of free cash flow are available to us, we have extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the company's last reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

Story continues

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (, Millions) 14.2m 14.7m 15.0m 15.2m 15.4m 15.5m 15.5m 15.6m 15.6m 15.7m Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ 4.31% Est @ 3.02% Est @ 2.12% Est @ 1.48% Est @ 1.04% Est @ 0.73% Est @ 0.52% Est @ 0.36% Est @ 0.26% Est @ 0.18% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 5.6% 13.5 13.1 12.7 12.2 11.7 11.1 10.6 10.1 9.5 9.1

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = 114m

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 (0.01%) 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 5.6%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = 16m (1 + 0.01%)  (5.6% 0.01%) = 278m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= 278m ( 1 + 5.6%)10= 161m

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is 274m. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of CHF37.0, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent.

dcf

The Assumptions

The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Lalique Group as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 5.6%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.126. 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 Lalique Group

Strength

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Personal Products market.

Current share price is above our estimate of fair value.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Swiss market.

Threat

No apparent threats visible for LLQ.

Looking Ahead:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. For Lalique Group, there are three additional items you should further examine:

Risks: Every company has them, and we've spotted 2 warning signs for Lalique Group you should know about. Future Earnings: How does LLQ's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Swiss stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Vehicles waited in line ahead of the grand opening of Chick-fil-A in March of 2022 in Ashwaubenon. This week, the village of Bellevue announced the chain submitted a site plan application, which, if approved, will bring a second location to the Green Bay area.

BELLEVUE  Chick-fil-A submitted a site plan application to the village of Bellevue earlier this week, according to Andrew Vissers, the village's director of community development

Chick-fil-A specializes in chicken sandwiches, but also offers chicken nuggets, strips, wraps, salads, and beverages like iced tea, lemonades and sodas.

This new location would roost at 2153 Monroe Road, next to Valvoline, which is currently under construction.

"With the site plan just submitted it needs to go through the review process," Vissers said.

If things go well, he said, construction could start at the end of this year and in the early part of 2024.

However, "no timetable has been provided to us, formally," he added.

This would be the fourth Chick-fil-A in northeast Wisconsin, with others in Oshkosh and Appleton, and one near Bay Park Square mall in Ashwaubenon.

"The village is very excited to welcome another business to this growing area," Vissers said. "We anticipate several more submission for projects very soon."

Currently the land is still owned by Midwest Expansion, it's not yet clear if the company will purchase the land or lease it for the construction of the restaurant.

Ariel Perez is a business reporter for the Green Bay Press-Gazette. You can reach him at APerez1@gannett.com or view his Twitter profile at @Ariel_Perez85.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Chick-fil-A may come to Bellevue, as site plan is submitted to village
(Bloomberg) -- The White House said it believes Chinas moves to institute and expand a government ban on iPhones is an attempt to retaliate against the US as it weighed in for the first time on the backlash against Apple Inc.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Were watching this with concern, clearly. It seems to be of a piece  of the kinds of aggressive and inappropriate retaliation to US companies that weve seen from the PRC in the past. Thats what this appears to be, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Wednesday, referring to the Peoples Republic of China.

The truth is, we dont have perfect visibility on exactly what theyre doing and why, and we certainly would call on them to be more transparent about what theyre seeing and what theyre doing, he added.

Bloomberg News reported this month that China plans to expand a ban on the use of iPhones to a plethora of state-backed companies and agencies, a sign of growing challenges for Apple in the country. Several Chinese agencies have begun instructing staff not to bring their iPhones to work.

The situation grew more muddled Wednesday, when Beijing contradicted reports about iPhone restrictions while also raising concerns about security problems with the device.

China has not issued laws and regulations to ban the purchase of Apple or foreign brands phones, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told a regular press briefing in Beijing. It marked the governments first comments on the issue, but didnt seem to refer directly to workplace bans of the device.

Mao said the government attaches great importance to security and that all companies operating in China must abide by its laws and regulations. We noticed that there have been many media reports about security incidents concerning Apple phones, she said.

Story continues

The remarks left US investors unsure about Apples status in China  which is both the companys production base and its biggest international market  just as a new iPhone is launching. The shares fell 1.2% for the day.

Earlier: China Sows Fresh Confusion About Apple With Security Remarks

The China-Apple tensions are part of a broader standoff between the worlds two largest economies. The US has limited exports of advanced chipmaking equipment to China, citing fears that such technology will help equip the Asian nations military. China has imposed its own restrictions on exports and restricted US chipmaker Micron Technology Inc.s ability to sell products.

Maos comments about security incidents were slightly different in the official English translation of the news briefing. That translation, delivered simultaneously onsite by the ministry, omitted the reference to media reports. Foreign affairs ministry briefings are typically rigorously controlled, and spokespeoples responses are usually scripted ahead of time with consistent translations.

The Chinese press conference came just hours after Apple unveiled the latest model of its marquee device, the iPhone 15. The company introduced four new models, keeping pace with the past few generations: the iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max. Preorders of the device begin on Friday.

A spokesperson for Apple didnt respond to a request for comment.

Read More: China Seeks to Broaden iPhone Ban to State Firms, Agencies

Apple has faced a number of security issues in recent months. An iPhone belonging to a staffer at a Washington-based civil society organization was hacked remotely with spyware created by Israels NSO group. Apple confirmed the attack and issued a patch last week to address the issue.

Russias Federal Security Service, known as the FSB, accused an unidentified US intelligence agency in June of hacking several thousand iPhones. The attacks were linked to SIM cards registered with Russia-based diplomats, including some from China, it said.

Apple didnt comment at the time on whether any Russian phones were breached, but a spokesperson said the company didnt help any government in the alleged attack, as the FSB implied.

--With assistance from Philip Glamann, Lulu Shen and Sarah Zheng.

(Updates with additional Kirby comments, details throughout.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
By Casey Hall

SHANGHAI (Reuters) - Chinese luxury liquor-maker Kweichow Moutai is again looking to diversify from its fiery baijiu spirit core business to attract a new generation of consumers via a sweet collaboration with Mars, Inc.-owned Dove.

The companies jointly announced on Thursday they would release limited edition alcohol-infused chocolates, available from Saturday.

Within an hour, a hashtag about the collaboration had leapt to the top of the trending topics list on China's Weibo social media platform.

This announcement comes only 10 days after the launch of a baijiu-infused latte from Moutai and domestic Starbucks rival, Luckin Coffee, which generated enormous interest online and sold out in cities around China.

"This demonstrates Moutai's desire to broaden their appeal more to younger consumers," said Jason Yu, greater China managing director of market research firm Kantar Worldpanel. "They fear their current base is too concentrated on older consumers and that makes them worry about the future of the brand."

Moutai, known as the national liquor of China, is a potent, colourless spirit that is usually served at banquets.

The company, based in China's southwestern Guizhou province, began its run of collaborations last year with domestic dairy Mengniu. The resulting series of alcohol-infused ice-creams also caused a stir among Chinese consumers.

In part, the attraction for younger Chinese of these quirky product tie ups lies in the novelty of buying into the Moutai brand for a small fraction of the cost of buying a bottle of its liquor, which has an average market price of 1,499 yuan ($206) for 500 mls.

Though details of the price of the upcoming liquor-infused chocolates Moutai is releasing with Dove haven't been released yet, the Moutai-infused Luckin lattes were made available for as little as 19 yuan with coupons and a small tub of the alcoholic ice-cream was priced at 60 yuan.

Story continues

Shares in the company were little changed on Thursday, having gained 5% this year.

($1 = 7.2735 Chinese yuan renminbi)

(Reporting by Casey Hall)
Dr. Lara Johnson has been named the Covenant Health Lubbock Service Area Chief Medical Officer.

As the Chief Medical Officer, Johnson will work with other Covenant Health leaders and members of the medical staffs to help ensure the highest quality of care for patients and families. The Lubbock service area includes Covenant Medical Center, Covenant Childrens, Covenant Specialty Hospital, and Covenant Health Grace Surgical Hospital.

Johnson was born and raised in Lubbock, graduating from Lubbock High School before attending Texas Tech University where she earned a degree in Cell and Molecular Biology. She has a medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine and completed her residency in pediatrics at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.

After starting the pediatric hospitalist program at TTUHSC in 2005, she joined the Covenant medical staff as a physician in 2007. She then completed a fellowship in health policy and health services research at Yale College of Medicine.

She is board certified in general pediatrics and pediatric hospital medicine and has been a faculty member in the department of pediatrics at TTUHSC for more than 16 years with leadership roles in medical education and clinical care. Johnson served as Chief of Staff at Covenant Childrens Hospital from 2020-2022.

She will retain her position at TTUHSC as fellowship director and will continue to be a clinical professor taking shifts as a hospitalist.

Johnson has been married to her husband, Michael, for 20 years and they share two children, Keegan, 18 and Gwendolyn, 13. Johnson loves to travel and is often found camping in her free time. She and Michael both enjoy working with local youth and are volunteers with the Boy Scouts of America.

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Covenant Health Lubbock names Dr. Lara Johnson as CMO
Avalon Pharmaceuticals, one of the fastest growing home-grown pharmaceutical companies in Saudi Arabia, has announced plans to continue its growth and investment trajectory with the opening of its fourth manufacturing plant, Avalon 4.

Anticipated to launch by 2026, Avalon 4 will be located in the industrial city in Riyadh and will focus on different forms of complex and high-tech medications such as oncology and general injectables, differentiating it from factories Avalon 1, 2 and 3, whose respective focuses are normal forms of prescription medications, health and personal care products and medical devices.

With its origins in Saudi Arabia, Avalon Pharmaceuticals has a storied 25-year history within the Kingdom, marked by its pursuit of excellence in the health, beauty, and prescription medicine sectors. With the companys emphasis on innovation, research and development, Avalon today owns a broad portfolio of 75 brands, ranging from health care products like Salinose, AvalonActiv, Avomeb and Ez-Clean to cosmetic & personal care products such as Alpha Plus, Avalon Care and EZ Care, and extending to pharmaceutical drugs like Avogain, Avocom and Broncast.

The new factory, being built at a cost of SAR100 million ($26.7 milllion), will double the company's extensive portfolio range of more than 75 major medical products to 150 with 75 new products, a statement said.

Ahmad Al Tabbaa, Chairman of the Board at Avalon Pharmaceuticals, said: Now in our 25th year serving Saudi Arabia, we consider ourselves to be one of the national champions of the kingdom, positioned for growth and consistent investment within the sector as we demonstrate proof points of Vision 2030 in action. This new factory plant will allow Avalon Pharma to enter a new and elite segment of medicines like anticancer and other injectable products. and we look forward to its realisation over the next three years.

Across Saudi Arabia, Avalon Pharma has a well-established scientific presence in all public and private hospitals and polyclinics. The company has additionally created solid commercial relationships with the leading chain pharmacies, high-street pharmacies, regional distributors and leading hypermarket chains. The company is fully aligned with the Saudi Food and Drug Agency (SFDA) and the Ministry of Industry.

KSA pharmaceutical market is valued at SAR38.4 billion and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% to reach SAR67.4 b by 2030. Poised to reach revenue of SAR1 billion in KSA and the region by 2030, Avalon Pharma will continue to dominate the industry as one of the kingdoms market leaders, with the intention for its economic impact on the sector to play a role in uplifting the overall prominence of Saudi Arabias healthcare industry, the company said.

Mohamed Maher Al Ghannam, Managing Director & CEO of Avalon Pharma, said: As we are positioned at this point of growth and expansion for our company with Avalon 4, we look to both extend our influence, regionally and globally, in addition to continuing our deep investment towards our local customers. We look forward to achieving new heights with the addition of our fourth manufacturing plant as we continue this journey.

To date we have invested over SAR400 million in our operation in addition to our research and development capabilities. We will continue at the same pace and inject further investments in the near future. - TradeArabia News Service
By Mehr Bedi

(Reuters) - Delta Air Lines said on Thursday in the near term it is expecting a minimal hit from recently disclosed quality issues with RTX's Pratt & Whitney engines but added it was yet to fully assess the impact.

The airline expects a more detailed assessment from Pratt & Whitney at the end of this month, Delta's finance chief Dan Janki said during a conference organized by Morgan Stanley.

Earlier this week, RTX said it would have to pull 600 to 700 of its Pratt & Whitney Geared Turbofan (GTF) engines from Airbus A320neo jets for quality inspections over the next three years.

The problem arose due to a powder metal defect that can lead to cracks in some Pratt & Whitney engine components. RTX initially estimated repair work per engine to last 60 days, but it is now expected to take up to 300 days.

Speaking about the impact, Janki said "I think (it) will be minimal at this point, but we got to assess it."

"You got to look at the secondary impacts as it relates to new deliveries, other knock-on effects in a supply chain that continues to be fragile in nature."

Delta had taken delivery of Airbus A321neos "later in the cycle" and will end 2023 with just under 50 neos, Janki added.

Shares of the carrier fell nearly 1% during market hours after rising over 2% before the bell.

The airline raised its current-quarter revenue forecast earlier in the day as Americans' thirst for travel to Europe lifted demand for lucrative transatlantic flights.

The carrier said it expects third-quarter revenue to rise within the upper half of its forecast range of 11% to 14% growth.

However, it slashed its quarterly forecasts for operating margin and profit as extended oil production cuts by Russia and Saudi Arabia drove the airline's fuel expenses higher.

The carrier now expects a profit of $1.85 to $2.05 per share in the third quarter, down from its prior forecast of $2.20 to $2.50 per share.

(This story has been corrected to say A321neos, not A320neos, in paragraph 7)

(Reporting by Mehr Bedi in Bengaluru; Editing by Shweta Agarwal)
An In-depth Analysis of the Company's Dividend Performance and Sustainability

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd (NYSE:TSM) recently announced a dividend of $0.47 per share, payable on 2023-10-12, with the ex-dividend date set for 2023-09-14. As investors look forward to this upcoming payment, the spotlight also shines on the company's dividend history, yield, and growth rates. Using the data from GuruFocus, let's deep dive into Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's dividend performance and assess its sustainability.

Company Overview

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. is the world's largest dedicated chip foundry, with almost 60% market share. TSMC was founded in 1987 as a joint venture of Philips, the government of Taiwan, and private investors. It went public as an ADR in the U.S. in 1997. TSMC's scale and high-quality technology allow the firm to generate solid operating margins, even in the highly competitive foundry business. Furthermore, the shift to the fabless business model has created tailwinds for TSMC. The foundry leader has an illustrious customer base, including Apple, AMD, and Nvidia, that looks to apply cutting-edge process technologies to its semiconductor designs. TSMC employs more than 73,000 people.

Delving into Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's Dividend Dynamics

A Glimpse at Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's Dividend History

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 2016. Dividends are currently distributed on a quarterly basis. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends.

Delving into Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's Dividend Dynamics

Breaking Down Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's Dividend Yield and Growth

As of today, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 1.94% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 2.00%. This suggests an expectation of increased dividend payments over the next 12 months.

Story continues

Over the past three years, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's annual dividend growth rate was -4.20%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate increased to 8.50% per year. And over the past decade, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at an impressive 17.20%.

Based on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd stock as of today is approximately 2.92%.

Delving into Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's Dividend Dynamics

The Sustainability Question: Payout Ratio and Profitability

To assess the sustainability of the dividend, one needs to evaluate the company's payout ratio. The dividend payout ratio provides insights into the portion of earnings the company distributes as dividends. A lower ratio suggests that the company retains a significant part of its earnings, thereby ensuring the availability of funds for future growth and unexpected downturns. As of 2023-06-30, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's dividend payout ratio is 0.30.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's profitability 10 out of 10 as of 2023-06-30, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported positive net income for each of year over the past decade, further solidifying its high profitability.

Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook

To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's growth rank of 10 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors.

Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's revenue has increased by approximately 28.40% per year on average, a rate that outperforms than approximately 82.51% of global competitors.

The company's 3-year EPS growth rate showcases its capability to grow its earnings, a critical component for sustaining dividends in the long run. During the past three years, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's earnings increased by approximately 41.00% per year on average, a rate that outperforms than approximately 65.33% of global competitors.

Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of 22.60%, outperforms than approximately 58.04% of global competitors.

Concluding Thoughts

Overall, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd's consistent dividend payments, impressive dividend growth rate, sustainable payout ratio, high profitability, and robust growth metrics indicate a promising outlook for dividend investors. As the company continues to outperform its global competitors in various aspects, it may provide a stable and growing income stream for shareholders in the foreseeable future. GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Featuring 110 tradable DeFi tokens and a fresh new look in version 3.7, the Telcoin App offers a viable alternative to centralized crypto exchanges.

SINGAPORE, Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Telcoin, a decentralized financial technology platform putting blockchain-powered mobile financial services at consumers' fingertips worldwide, has vastly expanded digital asset availability to users, adding the ability to store, send, and trade (where available) an additional 82 cryptocurrencies. The total number of DeFi assets available on the app is now 110. The Telcoin App offers an easy and intuitive way to trade tokens across DeFi protocols native to the Polygon Network, an Ethereum layer-two scaling solution that offers faster and more affordable trades than the Ethereum mainnet.

Telcoin adds 82 new DeFi tokens to its app, along with a fresh new UI/UX with Market View - rolling out in the version 3.7 update.

In addition to greatly increasing token availability, a new Telcoin App update brings a number of user experience and user interface improvements that will become the foundation for future releases. Market View makes its highly anticipated debut in version 3.7, and features live price updates for all digital assets available in the Telcoin App. It can be accessed from the brand new bottom navigation bar, which enables users to quickly tap between Wallet, Trade, Market View, and Account screens. Also, on the Wallet screen, tapping the top right corner of your card flips it, revealing your personal wallet address and Deposit QR code. This code can be used to easily deposit tokens from external accounts into your Telcoin App.

New tokens are available in the app today, and version 3.7's UI/UX upgrades will be rolling out in a phased manner - starting with Android devices and extending to iOS shortly.

"We're excited to offer an improved trading experience and support a lot more assets in the Telcoin App, and continue to grow as a legitimate alternative to centralized exchanges and the myriad issues plaguing a number of them over the past year," says Paul Neuner, Telcoin CEO. "Our emphasis on DeFi, our assisted self custody model, and our strong focus on compliance in every market where we operate has put us in an excellent position to capture users fleeing uncertainty to a safer, more trusted platform."

Story continues

Currently, Telcoin users in the United States can deposit USDC into the Telcoin App with a debit card, with bank deposits and withdrawals planned to return soon. Users in France, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, and Sweden can deposit USDC into the Telcoin app with a debit card or bank account, and withdraw Euros via SEPA transfer. On and off ramps are set to extend to the rest of the European Union and beyond soon.

Beyond securely storing and trading digital assets, the Telcoin App also offers best-in-class digital fiat remittances to mobile money platforms across the globe. Telcoin Group is headquartered in Singapore where its operating entity is licensed as a Major Payment Institution. The Group's subsidiaries are also registered as money services businesses in the United States, Canada, and Australia. Telcoin Europe UAB, based in Lithuania, is registered as a digital asset exchange provider in the EU. In the United States, Telcoin notably supported the Nebraska Financial Innovation Act to create digital asset depository institutions for state-chartered banks, which was signed into law in May 2021.

iOS download: https://apple.co/3QAsM8W

Android download: https://bit.ly/3tWqmYv



Website: https://www.telco.in/

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/telcoin

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-digital-assets-and-an-updated-uiux-now-available-in-the-telcoin-app-301927221.html

SOURCE Telcoin Pte. Ltd.
On September 12, 2023, Murray Stahl, a director at Texas Pacific Land Corp (NYSE:TPL), purchased 20 shares of the company. This move is significant as insider buying can often be a positive indicator for the company's future performance.



Murray Stahl (Trades, Portfolio) is a seasoned financial expert with a wealth of experience in the industry. He has been a director at Texas Pacific Land Corp for several years, providing strategic guidance and oversight to the company's operations. His decision to buy more shares in the company is a strong vote of confidence in its future prospects.



Texas Pacific Land Corp is a landowner with a focus on revenue growth through its strategic management of vast land resources in Texas. The company generates income through oil and gas royalties, grazing leases, and land sales. With a market cap of $13.68 billion, Texas Pacific Land Corp is a significant player in the land management industry.



Over the past year, Murray Stahl (Trades, Portfolio) has purchased a total of 3,275 shares and has not sold any shares. This trend of buying indicates a strong belief in the company's potential for growth and profitability.



The insider transaction history for Texas Pacific Land Corp shows a total of 188 insider buys over the past year, with only 1 insider sell. This trend suggests that insiders at the company are bullish about its future.



Director Murray Stahl Buys Shares of Texas Pacific Land Corp

On the day of Murray Stahl (Trades, Portfolio)s recent buy, shares of Texas Pacific Land Corp were trading for $1,811.06 apiece. This gives the stock a price-earnings ratio of 32.97, which is higher than the industry median of 9.15 but lower than the companys historical median price-earnings ratio.



With a price of $1,811.06 and a GuruFocus Value of $1,980.94, Texas Pacific Land Corp has a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 0.91. This means the stock is modestly undervalued based on its GF Value.



Story continues

Director Murray Stahl Buys Shares of Texas Pacific Land Corp

The GF Value is an intrinsic value estimate developed by GuruFocus. It is calculated based on historical multiples (price-earnings ratio, price-sales ratio, price-book ratio, and price-to-free cash flow) that the stock has traded at, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on the companys past returns and growth, and future estimates of business performance from Morningstar analysts.



In conclusion, the insider's recent purchase of Texas Pacific Land Corp shares, coupled with the company's modest undervaluation based on its GF Value, suggests potential for future growth. Investors should keep a close eye on this stock.



This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


On September 11, 2023, Roxanne Austin, a prominent director of Freshworks Inc (NASDAQ:FRSH), sold 6,303 shares of the company. This move is part of a broader trend of insider selling at Freshworks Inc, which we will delve into later in this article.



Roxanne Austin is a seasoned executive with a wealth of experience in the tech industry. She has been a director at Freshworks Inc, a leading provider of customer engagement software, for several years. Her role involves providing strategic guidance and oversight to the company's management team. Her recent sale of shares in the company is noteworthy and warrants further analysis.



Freshworks Inc is a global company that provides innovative customer engagement software for businesses of all sizes. Their products, which include Freshdesk, Freshservice, Freshsales, Freshcaller, Freshteam, Freshchat, and Freshmarketer, are designed to make it easy for teams to collaborate and help their customers through a unified experience. The company has a market cap of $6.15 billion.



Over the past year, Roxanne Austin has sold a total of 52,078 shares and has not purchased any shares. This trend is not unique to Austin. The insider transaction history for Freshworks Inc shows that there have been 11 insider buys and 50 insider sells over the past year. This suggests a trend of more insider selling than buying at Freshworks Inc.



Director Roxanne Austin Sells 6,303 Shares of Freshworks Inc (FRSH)





The above image shows the trend of insider transactions at Freshworks Inc. The blue bars represent insider buys, while the red bars represent insider sells. As can be seen, the number of insider sells has been consistently higher than the number of insider buys over the past year.



On the day of the insider's recent sale, shares of Freshworks Inc were trading for $22.07 apiece. This gives the stock a market cap of $6.15 billion. The insider's sale of 6,303 shares represents a small fraction of the company's total market cap. However, the consistent trend of insider selling at Freshworks Inc could be a signal to investors about the company's future prospects.



Story continues

It's important to note that insider selling does not necessarily indicate a negative outlook for the company. Insiders may sell shares for a variety of reasons, including personal financial planning or diversification. However, investors should always consider insider transactions as part of their overall analysis of a company's stock.



In conclusion, while the insider's recent sale of shares is noteworthy, it is just one piece of the puzzle. Investors should consider other factors, such as the company's financial performance, market conditions, and industry trends, when making investment decisions.



This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Key Insights

Oceania Healthcare's estimated fair value is NZ$0.62 based on Dividend Discount Model

Oceania Healthcare is estimated to be 22% overvalued based on current share price of NZ$0.76

Analyst price target for OCA is NZ$1.07, which is 71% above our fair value estimate

Does the September share price for Oceania Healthcare Limited (NZSE:OCA) reflect what it's really worth? Today, we will estimate the stock's intrinsic value by projecting its future cash flows and then discounting them to today's value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine.

Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model.

Check out our latest analysis for Oceania Healthcare

Is Oceania Healthcare Fairly Valued?

We have to calculate the value of Oceania Healthcare slightly differently to other stocks because it is a healthcare company. In this approach dividends per share (DPS) are used, as free cash flow is difficult to estimate and often not reported by analysts. This often underestimates the value of a stock, but it can still be good as a comparison to competitors. We use the Gordon Growth Model, which assumes dividend will grow into perpetuity at a rate that can be sustained. The dividend is expected to grow at an annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.3%. We then discount this figure to today's value at a cost of equity of 6.3%. Compared to the current share price of NZ$0.8, the company appears slightly overvalued at the time of writing. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent.

Story continues

Value Per Share = Expected Dividend Per Share / (Discount Rate - Perpetual Growth Rate)

= NZ$0.04 / (6.3%  2.3%)

= NZ$0.6

dcf

The 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 Oceania Healthcare 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 6.3%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. 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 Oceania Healthcare

Strength

No major strengths identified for OCA.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Interest payments on debt are not well covered.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Healthcare market.

Expensive based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the New Zealander market.

Threat

Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow.

Dividends are not covered by earnings and cashflows.

Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year.

Looking Ahead:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. Can we work out why the company is trading at a premium to intrinsic value? For Oceania Healthcare, we've compiled three fundamental elements you should explore:

Risks: For example, we've discovered 4 warning signs for Oceania Healthcare (2 are a bit unpleasant!) that you should be aware of before investing here. Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for OCA's future outlook? Check out our management and board analysis with insights on CEO compensation and governance factors. 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 NZSE 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.
EFW makes its second acquisition of the year. (Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves)

Estes Forwarding Worldwide (EFW) announced Thursday it will acquire forwarder Superior Brokerage Services (SBS).

Minneapolis-based SBS is an asset-based supply chain services company specializing in domestic and international transportation, customs brokerage, and warehousing. The end-to-end operation provides shippers with a single source to move shipments into the U.S. from abroad.

The company is privately owned, debt-free and has been in operation for more than 25 years. Its customer book includes mostly large, strategic accounts.

The acquisition gives EFW control of the shipping process from points of origin in Asia as well as incremental capacity for its international operations. SBS Asian operations are centralized at a control tower in Taiwan.

SBS has more than 350 employees, who will be combined with EFWs head count of roughly 750. A news release said additional hiring will continue over the next few months to accommodate recent growth.

Financial terms of the transaction were not announced, but EFW said the acquisition will double its revenue, allowing it to close in on a $1 billion annual target. The deal is expected to close at the end of October.

We complement each others business very well with very little overlap, and together, well prove to be more agile in servicing our customers, both internationally and domestically, said Scott Fisher, CEO at EFW.

Richmond, Virginia-based EFW is a subsidiary of Estes, one of the largest less-than-truckload carriers and the largest private carrier in North America. EFW specializes in a full suite of logistics and freight forwarding services. The company will celebrate its 20th anniversary this month.

This is the second acquisition of the year for EFW. In March, it acquired Legacy Logistics, which specializes in logistics for trade shows and exhibits.

While we have similar philosophies, our companies have succeeded in different areas. Combining our strengths will enable us to better serve customers across the globe, said Paul Goff, founder and president of SBS.

Story continues

Goff will join EFW as an executive vice president while Fisher will lead the combined operation.

Theres a lot to celebrate this year, and looking back on our 20-year history, its remarkable to be within striking distance of the $1 billion mark, Fisher added. Joining with SBS to bolster our global services is a monumental achievement, and we are extremely appreciative of our teams dedication and hard work throughout our entire 20-year journey.

More FreightWaves articles by Todd Maiden

The post EFW doubles revenue with acquisition of Superior Brokerage Services appeared first on FreightWaves.
null The Joe Rogan Experience/YouTube

Elon Musk told his biographer that he "really" doesn't like taking illegal drugs.

Musk famously smoked weed with Joe Rogan in 2018, and says he was subjected to random drug tests afterwards.

Sources previously told the Wall Street Journal Musk has also taken ketamine.

Elon Musk, who is known for cracking 420 jokes and has reportedly taken ketamine, told his biographer that he "really" doesn't like taking illegal drugs.

The Wall Street Journal reported in June that Musk, the world's richest person, has told people he takes small doses of ketamine to treat depression and had also been seen taking the drug recreationally. He had previously tweeted that he'd spoken to "many more people" who were helped by psychedelics and ketamine than SSRIs and amphetamines, medications prescribed as treatment for depression, anxiety, and ADHD.

Musk hit the headlines after he smoked weed on Joe Rogan's podcast in 2018.

He revealed last year on the "Full Send" podcast that the federal government required him and others members of SpaceX staff to undergo random drug testing for a year after his appearance to "prove that I'm not like a drug addict." This is because workers at companies that receive federal contracts  like SpaceX  are prohibited from using drugs in the workplace, even though the interview with Rogan took place in California, where marijuana is legal .

Musk elaborated on this during interviews with Walter Isaacson for the journalist's biography of the tech mogul.

"SpaceX was a NASA contractor, and they are big believers in the law," Musk told Isaacson. "So I had to be subjected to random drug tests for a couple of years. Fortunately, I really don't like doing illegal drugs."

The interview with Rogan had been partly set up to quash bad publicity around Musk after he tweeted that Tesla would be going private at $420 a share. He told The New York Times that his original calculation put the price at $419 but that $420 "seemed like better karma."

Story continues

When he posted the tweet, "I was not on weed, to be clear,'" he told The Times. "Weed is not helpful for productivity. There's a reason for the word 'stoned.'"

The Securities and Exchange Commission opened an investigation into the tweet. Musk's lawyers reached a settlement with the commission that included Musk stepping down as Tesla's chairman, paying a $40 million fine, putting two independent directors on the company's board, and requiring clearance before making public comments, including tweets, about material information.

Musk told Isaacson that he had believed he'd done nothing wrong and only agreed to settle to stop Tesla from going bankrupt. "I was forced to concede to the SEC unlawfully," Musk told Isaacson. "Those bastards."

Shortly after the $420 tweet, Musk revealed his vulnerable side during an interview with The New York Times in which he "alternated between laughter and tears." He told the publication that there'd been times when he "didn't leave the factory for three or four days" and that "from a personal pain standpoint, the worst is yet to come." This led to some concerns about Musk's state of mind.

Musk's PR specialist told him that he needed to do a long interview to "kill this nonsense speculation around your mental health," Isaacson wrote.

Musk went on Rogan's podcast in September 2018. His use of weed was picked up by news outlets, accompanied by screenshots of Musk holding the spliff, and Tesla shares fell.

"I'm not a regular smoker of weed," Musk had told Rogan, adding that he "almost never" smoked it and didn't notice it having any effect on him when he did.

During his appearance on the "Full Send" podcast four years later, Musk said: "I don't even know how to smoke a joint, obviously. I mean, look at me, I have no joint-smoking skills."

Read the original article on Business Insider
UAW strike against Detroit automakers: Live updates, news from the picket sites

The UAWs targeted plan for a possible strike could mean that some workers are on the picket lines making $500 a week in strike pay while others are on the assembly lines making their full wages.

Whether such a situation would breed contempt among workers would depend on the messaging from the United Auto Workers union, said Brett Miller, a labor and employment attorney at Butzel law firm.

There may be some comfort if the union plans to start small and escalate the strike involving more members or it is making representations that the final result of the strike would be worth the sacrifice, he said.

UAW member Nathan Burks, 48, of Detroit, holds a sign that reads "Saving the American Dream" during a rally and practice picket near the Detroit Assembly Complex - Mack in Detroit on Aug. 23. The UAW's announced strike strategy, should it fail to reach a deal with the Detroit Three by the deadline, would mean not all union members would be on strike at the same time.

As to whether the union strikes a plant that supplies parts to another plant, thereby halting the second, non-striking plants production, the automaker could shut down that non-striking plant and essentially it would be a lockout for those workers at the non-striking plant.

Miller said that under the UAW constitution, those on strike or locked out could get strike pay. Generally, unemployment will not cover employees who are on strike, but there are exceptions, such as in New York and New Jersey.

Miller's comments follow UAW President Shawn Fain's announcement on a closely watched Facebook Live session this week that local unions are trained and on standby to launch a rolling shutdown at various auto factories and operations centers with little notice should the union and Ford, General Motors and Stellantis, owner of Jeep, Ram, Dodge, Chrysler and Fiat, fail to reach a deal by the time the contracts were to expire Thursday night. The Free Press asked numerous legal and labor experts about some of the potential implications of the strike strategy.

Labor attorney L. Steven Platt at the Howard and Howard firm in Chicago said the strike strategy could backfire should it create tension between those who are striking and those who are not. But, he added, it really depends on how much solidarity there is for a strike. Usually this doesnt become a problem unless there is a long strike.

Story continues

If a non-striking plant were forced to shut down because of a parts shortage due to a strike at another plant, Platt said, the union would determine whether or not workers at the non-striking plant would get strike pay.

As for unemployment benefits in these situations, Platt said, Michigan is one of two states (the other being Texas) that does not allow such benefits. In other states you are eligible for benefits if your workplace shuts down due to a work stoppage at another facility controlled by your employer. Not Michigan.

He said that once the contract expires, an automaker could order a lockout at the remaining non-striking plants if it so desired.

Here, the union did not agree to extend the agreement on existing terms during contract talks, Platt said. Usually, it is management that doesnt agree to extend. I did not understand why the union did this given the leverage it gives management by doing this.

An automaker could legally lock out employees at non-striking plants and it wouldnt even have to call it a lockout, said Harley Shaiken, professor emeritus at University of California, Berkeley. They could simply say its a plant closure due to lack of parts, he said.

Still, the strategy of taking out some plants and not others is a strong plan that most workers will likely embrace, Shaiken said.

While no one wants to lose a paycheck, workers tend to understand the sacrifices theyre making and as a result theyre likely to be far more angry at the company than their co-workers at least towards the beginning, he said.

There's also another possibility, according to Art Wheaton, director of labor studies at Cornell University ILR School in Buffalo, New York.

The strategy would likely not create much tension among strikers and non-strikers when it comes to paychecks, but it could be more of an issue of jealousy because many want to strike, Wheaton said.

The UAW has planned a rally Friday with U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders for 4 p.m. at the UAW-Ford National Programs Center in downtown Detroit, even going so far as to say members from other parts of the country will come to it. The rally is to fire up the members to support fighting for a strong contract, but it was planned well ahead of the contract deadline, indicating to some that the UAW does not expect to hammer out an agreement by the deadline Thursday night.

The scheduled rally, right next to the Detroit Auto Show, certainly implies that the UAW views a strike as likely, Miller said. Whether the rally becomes part of an unfair labor practice charge would most likely depend on the status of bargaining as several automakers have publicly complained that the UAW has not responded to multiple economic proposals.

Biden: If UAW strike happens, it could be a test for president

As for the pre-planned Friday rally, Shaiken said it makes sense to schedule something like that because the chances of a last-minute settlement are very slim at a single automaker and even less at all three. Theres a sense that Shawn Fain wants to demonstrate the power of a strike and his ability to use it.

Still, the potential for a settlement remained, even up until the deadline.

A lot of things can happen in the last few hours of a negotiation, said Marick Masters, a labor expert and business professor at Wayne State University.

Masters, however, said he believes that solidarity within the UAW as a whole is something for the union to consider.

When certain workers are not feeling the strike-related pain that others are, it could cause a sense of division, particularly if some workers feel thats not the most effective strike method, Masters said.

Another key factor is the level of support for a union strike that exists among its members. The UAW released the percentage of the strike authorization vote, showing that it passed by 97%, but the union did not say how many members participated in the vote.

Although the union has presented a unified front during the bargaining led by Fain  who garnered approximately 30,000 viewers for his Facebook Live strategy announcement this week  the election that landed him and other reformer candidates in top leadership posts was close and contentious.

To what extent are workers across the board supportive of this? (Fains) going to hear from those workers who are most likely part of his caucus and supportive of these kinds of activities. You cant assume that these other workers who are silent are going to be highly supportive of this, Masters said.

The union has many new members who work with the automakers who have also never experienced a strike. It would be a new experience for them, Masters said, noting that hes not diminishing their enthusiasm or support.

But being on strike is different than talking about being on strike.

People can say theyre all willing to strike. Lets see how people feel when theyre there for two weeks or three weeks, Masters said.

He called it unfathomable that the companies would simply stand by while the strike strategy the union announced was allowed to unfold. That's because it makes the companies vulnerable.

Potential UAW strike Q&A: Sticking points, company profits, how long it could last

A strike at a component plant, for instance, could diminish a carmaker's ability to operate many more facilities that rely on that plant. He referenced a 1998 strike against General Motors that started with two plants and ultimately affected plants across the country.

If the company sat back and did nothing it would let the union control the pace of the strikes, he said.

Selective strikes in this manner could cripple a companys ability to operate, no doubt about it, Masters said.

They know the components, the engines, transmissions, that can essentially shut it down, Masters said of the union.

Thats in addition to the possibility of targeting assembly plants that produce the most popular vehicles, he said.

A company might respond to this strategy by instituting a lockout. However, Masters said he believes the companies would let the union decide if it wants to strike first.

When asked if announcing the strategy in this way was smart, Masters noted that an unconventional approach can be risky but it can also be viewed as a negotiating tactic.

He wants to put the maximum pressure on the companies until 11 or 12 tonight, Masters said Thursday morning, noting that Fain could still decide to call for a companywide strike against one or more of the automakers.

Phoebe Wall Howard contributed to this report. Contact Eric D. Lawrence: elawrence@freepress.com. Become a subscriber. Contact Jamie L. LaReau: jlareau@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @jlareauan.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: UAW strike strategy: Experts weigh impact on solidarity, worker pay
Exploring the Dividend History and Future Prospects of Extra Space Storage Inc (NYSE:EXR)

Extra Space Storage Inc(NYSE:EXR) recently announced a dividend of $0.61 per share, payable on 2023-09-29, with the ex-dividend date set for 2023-09-14. As investors look forward to this upcoming payment, the spotlight also shines on the company's dividend history, yield, and growth rates. Using the data from GuruFocus, let's deep dive into Extra Space Storage Inc's dividend performance and assess its sustainability.

What Does Extra Space Storage Inc Do?

Extra Space Storage is a fully integrated real estate investment trust that owns, operates, and manages almost 2,400 self-storage properties in 41 states, with over 180 million net rentable square feet of storage space. Of these properties, approximately one half is wholly owned, while some facilities are owned through joint ventures and others are owned by third parties and managed by Extra Space Storage in exchange for a management fee.

Extra Space Storage Inc (EXR): A Deep Dive into its Dividend Performance and Sustainability

A Glimpse at Extra Space Storage Inc's Dividend History

Extra Space Storage Inc has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 2004. Dividends are currently distributed on a quarterly basis. Extra Space Storage Inc has increased its dividend each year since 2009. The stock is thus listed as a dividend achiever, an honor that is given to companies that have increased their dividend each year for at least the past 14 years.

Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends.

Extra Space Storage Inc (EXR): A Deep Dive into its Dividend Performance and Sustainability

Breaking Down Extra Space Storage Inc's Dividend Yield and Growth

As of today, Extra Space Storage Inc currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 4.59% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 1.95%. This suggests an expectation of decreased dividend payments over the next 12 months.

Story continues

Over the past three years, Extra Space Storage Inc's annual dividend growth rate was 19.00%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate decreased to 12.60% per year. And over the past decade, Extra Space Storage Inc's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at an impressive 17.20%.

Based on Extra Space Storage Inc's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Extra Space Storage Inc stock as of today is approximately 8.31%.

Extra Space Storage Inc (EXR): A Deep Dive into its Dividend Performance and Sustainability

The Sustainability Question: Payout Ratio and Profitability

To assess the sustainability of the dividend, one needs to evaluate the company's payout ratio. The dividend payout ratio provides insights into the portion of earnings the company distributes as dividends. A lower ratio suggests that the company retains a significant part of its earnings, thereby ensuring the availability of funds for future growth and unexpected downturns. As of 2023-06-30, Extra Space Storage Inc's dividend payout ratio is 1.18, suggesting that the company's dividend may not be sustainable.

Extra Space Storage Inc's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Extra Space Storage Inc's profitability 9 out of 10 as of 2023-06-30, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported positive net income for each of year over the past decade, further solidifying its high profitability.

Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook

To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Extra Space Storage Inc's growth rank of 9 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors.

Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and Extra Space Storage Inc's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. Extra Space Storage Inc's revenue has increased by approximately 12.30% per year on average, a rate that outperforms approximately 87.52% of global competitors.

The company's 3-year EPS growth rate showcases its capability to grow its earnings, a critical component for sustaining dividends in the long run. During the past three years, Extra Space Storage Inc's earnings increased by approximately 25.50% per year on average, a rate that outperforms approximately 76.29% of global competitors.

Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of 14.40%, outperforms approximately 74.14% of global competitors.

Conclusion

While Extra Space Storage Inc's consistent dividend history and robust growth metrics make it an attractive option for dividend investors, the high payout ratio raises concerns about the sustainability of its dividends. However, its strong profitability and revenue growth, coupled with a high growth rank, indicate a healthy future outlook. Investors should consider these factors while making informed decisions about their investments in Extra Space Storage Inc.

GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Russian National Arrested for Illegally Exporting to Russia Sensitive U.S.-Sourced Microelectronics with Military Applications in Violation of U.S. Export Controls

Arthur Petrov, 33, a dual Russian-German citizen who has resided in Russia and Cyprus, is charged by criminal complaint, unsealed today, with export control violations, smuggling, wire fraud, and money laundering offenses based on his alleged participation in an ongoing scheme to procure U.S.-sourced microelectronics subject to U.S. export controls on behalf of a Russia-based supplier of critical electronics components for manufacturers supplying weaponry and other equipment to the Russian military.

Petrov was arrested on Aug. 26 in the Republic of Cyprus at the request of the United States.

As alleged in the complaint, Arthur Petrov conspired to smuggle U.S. microelectronics technology with military applications to Russia, the type of components used by the Russian military in its unjust invasion of Ukraine, said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Departments National Security Division. The Justice Department will not tolerate efforts to circumvent our export control laws to fuel the Russian war machine and those who try will find no refuge from U.S. justice. We thank our partners in the Republic of Cyprus for their law enforcement cooperation and continued support.

Those how evade our export control restrictions to support Putins brutal war machine will be held accountable, said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Enforcement Matthew S. Axelrod. In conjunction with todays criminal action, we have issued a Temporary Denial Order to shutter this alleged illicit procurement networks access to the type of U.S. micro-electronics embedded in Russian missiles and drones that have been used in its unprovoked war against the Ukrainian people.

Arthur Petrov is alleged to have participated in an international illicit procurement network based in Russia, using shell companies to smuggle shipments from U.S. distributors of microelectronics with military applications through intermediary countries in order to conceal the ultimate destination of these sensitive materials: Russia. As alleged, Petrov knew that the transactions and shipments were in contravention of U.S. export controls relating to Russia, said U.S. Attorney Damian Williams for the Southern District of New York. Efforts to illicitly supply Russia with U.S.-sourced military technology represent an affront to national security and will continue to be met with criminal prosecutions by this office.

Petrovs alleged conduct in the complaint represents a complex, concerted scheme to circumvent U.S. law and export controls, said Executive Assistant Director Larissa L. Knapp of the FBIs National Security Branch. The alleged creation and establishment of an intricate network of shell companies demonstrates the elaborate measures adversaries will take to steal sensitive technology. The FBI remains committed to dismantling criminal enterprises intent on threatening national security.

According to court documents, Petrov is a dual Russian-German national who works for LLC Electrocom VPK (Electrocom), a Russia-based supplier of critical electronics components for manufacturers supplying weaponry and other equipment to the Russian military. Petrov and two co-conspirators (CC-1 and CC-2), who are Russian nationals also working for Electrocom, operated an illicit procurement network in Russia and elsewhere overseas. As alleged, following Russia invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and continuing until August 2023, they fraudulently procured from U.S. distributors large quantities of microelectronics subject to U.S. export controls on behalf of Electrocom. To carry out the scheme, Petrov, CC-1, and CC-2 used shell companies and other deceptive means to conceal that the electronics components were destined for Russia. The technology that Petrov and his co-conspirators procured during the course of the conspiracy have significant military applications and include various types of electronics components of the sort that have been recovered in Russian military hardware on the battlefield in Ukraine, such as Russian guided missiles, drones, and electronic warfare and communications devices.

To perpetrate the scheme, Petrov first acquired the controlled microelectronics from U.S.-based electronics exporters using a Cyprus-based shell company, Astrafteros Technokosmos LTD (Astrafteros), which he operates. Petrov procured these sensitive electronics components by falsely representing to the U.S. exporters that Astrafteros was purchasing the items for fire security systems, among other commercial uses, and that the ultimate end-users and destinations of the electronics are companies in Cyprus or other third countries  when in fact the components are destined for Electrocom in Russia, which supplies manufacturers for the Russian military. The microelectronics that Petrov procured as part of the conspiracy include, among other things, microcontrollers and integrated circuits that are on the Commerce Control List maintained by the Commerce Department and cannot lawfully be exported or reexported to Russia without a license from the Commerce Department. Invoices provided to Petrov by the U.S. distributors expressly noted that these microcontrollers and integrated circuits are subject to U.S. export controls.

To evade these controls, Petrov, CC-1, and CC-2 worked together to transship the controlled items procured by Petrov using pass-through entities operated by CC-1 and CC-2 in third countries. CC-1 and CC-2 then caused the items to be shipped, sometimes through yet another country, to the ultimate destination: Electrocom in Saint Petersburg, Russia. At all times, Petrov, CC-1, and CC-2 concealed from the U.S. distributors that they were procuring the controlled electronics components on behalf of Electrocom and that the items were destined for Russia. During the course of the conspiracy, Petrov, CC-1, and CC-2 procured from U.S. distributors and shipped to Russia more than $225,000 worth of controlled electronics components with military applications.

Petrov is charged with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; one count of conspiracy to violate the Export Control Reform Act (ECRA), which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; three counts of violating the ECRA, which each carry a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of conspiracy to smuggle goods from the United States, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; three counts of smuggling goods from the United States, which each carry a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison; one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The FBI and the Department of Commerces Bureau of Industry and Security are investigating the case, with valuable assistance provided by the FBIs Legal Attache offices in Poland, Germany, and Athens, Greece; the Justice Departments National Security Division; and the Justice Departments Office of International Affairs. The Republic of Cyprus National Police also provided critical assistance in effecting the defendants arrest and detention at the request of the United States.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Sullivan for the Southern District of New York is prosecuting the case, with assistance from Trial Attorney Maria Fedor of the Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.

Todays actions were coordinated through the Justice Departments Task Force KleptoCapture and the Justice and Commerce Departments Disruptive Technology Strike Force. Task Force KleptoCapture is an interagency law enforcement task force dedicated to enforcing the sweeping sanctions, export restrictions, and economic countermeasures that the United States has imposed, along with its allies and partners, in response to Russias unprovoked military invasion of Ukraine. The Disruptive Technology Strike Force is an interagency law enforcement strike force co-led by the Departments of Justice and Commerce designed to target illicit actors, protect supply chains, and prevent critical technology from being acquired by authoritarian regimes and hostile nation states.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This story has been published on: 2023-09-14. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Hong Kongs legendary Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance roars back to life this Mid-Autumn Festival reigniting the flames of this revered ritual for the first time since 2019.

Scheduled to take place on three consecutive nights from September 28 to 30, 2023, the dance will feature more than 300 performers parading a majestic 67-metre-long dragon through the grid-like streets of the Tai Hang district.

This years event will feature a number of new elements, including a special performance by next-generation dragon performers, a LED giant flower plaque with a dragon head near the entrance for photo opportunities, and an extended viewing zone to accommodate more spectators along Wun Sha Street and Tung Lo Wan Road.

The history and significance of the event can also be discovered during the daytime at the recently opened Tai Hang Fire Dragon Heritage Centre, which provides a fascinating insight into the 143-year-old tradition.

The dragons intricate construction requires over a month of dedicated hard work by a team of skilled and experienced craftspeople, who create the dragon by hand using pearl straw, rattan and hemp rope. Comprising 32 segments, the body of the dragon is adorned with 12,000 illuminated incense sticks, with the head alone weighing 50 kg.

This smoky, fiery spectacle is found uniquely in Hong Kong, making it a one-of-a-kind display, said a statement.

Keeper of the ancient flame

Originating over 140 years ago, the Fire Dragon Dance emerged as Tai Hang grappled with the hardships of plague within its farming and fishing communities. In an inspirational dream, a village elder was instructed to create a dragon adorned with smouldering incense sticks and parade it through the streets to save the village.

Since then, the ritual has been performed every year with its distinctive character and has established itself as one of Hong Kongs most important cultural celebrations, with the dance included on the National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

We are thrilled that the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance is returning this season after a four-year hiatus, and look forward to welcoming local and global visitors to join the celebrations. The dance is more than just a performance  it is an inseparable part of our lives and we are proud that traditions like ours will always live on as we pass the legacy on to the next generation, said Cheung Kwok Ho, Almon, Acting Commander in Chief of the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance and a Tai Hang local.

A hub for celebration and preservation

Adding to the festivities is the recently opened Tai Hang Fire Dragon Heritage Centre, housed in a Grade 3 Historic Building at 12 School Street. The centre holds exhibitions and features a restaurant offering dishes inspired by the delectable cuisine of the Hakka community, who were the original settlers of Tai Hang.

The Tai Hang Fire Dragon Heritage Centre is a celebration of the excitement of the Fire Dragon dance, and provides fascinating insight into the history, traditions and intangible cultural heritage of the dance itself as well as Hakka culture, says Vice Chairman Anthea Lo.

The Centre is housed in a historic building that dates back to the late 1940s, and is a great example of urban revitalisation that serves as a living link between the historical traditions of the fire dragon dance and the local community of today.

In addition to the Fire Dragon Dance, Hong Kong boasts an array of festive nighttime events that are not to be missed this Mid-Autumn Festival. The city will be illuminated by hundreds of lanterns festooning the city, as families gather at the glittering harbourfront and at parks adorned with dazzling decorations and lighting displays to enjoy the glow of the moon and indulge in festive mooncakes.  TradeArabia News Service
It is usually uneventful when a single insider buys stock. However, When quite a few insiders buy shares, as it happened in Windar Photonics PLC's (LON:WPHO) case, it's fantastic news for shareholders.

While we would never suggest that investors should base their decisions solely on what the directors of a company have been doing, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether.

View our latest analysis for Windar Photonics

Windar Photonics Insider Transactions Over The Last Year

The Founder Jorgen Jensen made the biggest insider purchase in the last 12 months. That single transaction was for UK100k worth of shares at a price of UK0.15 each. Although we like to see insider buying, we note that this large purchase was at significantly below the recent price of UK0.35. Because it occurred at a lower valuation, it doesn't tell us much about whether insiders might find today's price attractive.

In the last twelve months Windar Photonics insiders were buying shares, but not selling. The average buy price was around UK0.18. To my mind it is good that insiders have invested their own money in the company. However, we do note that they were buying at significantly lower prices than today's share price. 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!

Windar Photonics 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.

Insiders At Windar Photonics Have Bought Stock Recently

It's good to see that Windar Photonics insiders have made notable investments in the company's shares. Specifically, Independent Non Executive Director Paul Hodges bought UK61k worth of shares in that time, and we didn't record any sales whatsoever. This is a positive in our book as it implies some confidence.

Story continues

Does Windar Photonics Boast High Insider Ownership?

Another way to test the alignment between the leaders of a company and other shareholders is to look at how many shares they own. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. Our data indicates that Windar Photonics insiders own about UK3.6m worth of shares (which is 15% of the company). However, it's possible that insiders might have an indirect interest through a more complex structure. Whilst better than nothing, we're not overly impressed by these holdings.

So What Do The Windar Photonics Insider Transactions Indicate?

It's certainly positive to see the recent insider purchase. And the longer term insider transactions also give us confidence. But on the other hand, the company made a loss during the last year, which makes us a little cautious. We would certainly prefer see higher levels of insider ownership but analysis of the insider transactions suggests that Windar Photonics insiders are expecting a bright future. So these insider transactions can help us build a thesis about the stock, but it's also worthwhile knowing the risks facing this company. At Simply Wall St, we found 3 warning signs for Windar Photonics that deserve your attention before buying any shares.

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 of direct interests only, but not derivative transactions or indirect interests.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) has recommended that marijuana be moved from Schedule I to Schedule III under federal law. This decision has widespread implications for the cannabis market's trajectory in 2024, touching on diverse areas ranging from policy and business to the very science underpinning such classifications.

The change in classification is not just a regulatory adjustment. For stakeholders in the cannabis industry, this decision signifies an acknowledgment of the drug's potential benefits and a reduction in the perceived risks associated with its consumption.

Benzinga Virtual Events is hosting a comprehensive discussion on September 14 at 11am ET/8am PT, diving deep into the multifaceted implications of this recommendation. With participation from several industry leaders, this virtual event aims to shed light on the science, policy, and business ramifications of the HHS's groundbreaking recommendation. You can sign up for free here.

David Traylor, Sr. Managing Director at Golden Eagle Partners, will give attendees a brief overview of the UN Single Convention, Controlled Substances Act (CSA), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the nuances of drug scheduling. Complementing this will be Hunter Land, Ph.D., focusing on the scientific considerations that underlie DEA's scheduling.

Eric Berlin, Partner and Co-Head of the Cannabis Group at Dentons, alongside David Mangone, Director of Policy at The Liaison Group, and Pablo Zuanic, Managing Partner at Zuanic & Associates, will delve into the policy dimensions of DEA scheduling. Together, they aim to furnish insights into the policy landscape that the HHS recommendation is poised to reshape.

Every participating expert will also offer their perspective on the HHS's announcement, considering its unprecedented nature and how it stacks up against classifications for other substances. Crucial questions like the involvement of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the President's stance on this issue will also be dissected during the discussion.

Story continues

CCCBanner

A primary concern for many is the timeline post the HHS recommendation: When, if at all, can the DEA act on it?

This event will offer a clear timeline of events and what industry stakeholders can expect moving forward. Moreover, the repercussions of rescheduling on the Secure And Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act and the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) role will be spotlighted.

In wrapping up, all speakers will proffer additional comments, summarizing the paramount shifts that the cannabis market might witness in 2024 and beyond.

You can sign up the the webinar for free here.

Also keep in mind that the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, the place where deals get done, is returning to Chicago this Sept 27-28 for its 17th edition. Get your tickets today before prices increase and secure a spot at the epicenter of cannabis investment and branding.

Don't miss real-time alerts on your stocks - join Benzinga Pro for free! Try the tool that will help you invest smarter, faster, and better.

This article The Federal Government Might Relax Cannabis Laws Soon: This Free Webinar Breaks Down Its Implications originally appeared on Benzinga.com

.

 2023 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Led by a new "Maui Strong" offer, visitors are encouraged to come back and give back to the island through thoughtfully curated experiences that connect guests to culture, community, and conservation

WAILEA, Hawaii, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As travellers look to support Maui's recovery efforts this fall, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea invites guests to come back, and in turn, give back to the island through thoughtfully curated offers and programming that celebrate and support community, culture, and conservation.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea welcomes travellers back this fall in support of island recovery efforts.

Maui Strong Offer

The Maui wildfire is Hawaii's most severe natural disaster ever. Hawaii Community Foundation created the Maui Strong Fund to provide financial resources that can be deployed quickly, with a focus on rapid response and recovery. In turn, the Resort has developed a Maui Strong offer, in which guests can dedicate a portion of their Resort stay directly back to where it is needed most in the community. Upon selecting this option, guests will contribute up to USD 200 for each night of their stay. Every cent of the donation is directed toward the Maui Strong Fund. The Maui Strong offer is available for reservations now through December 15, 2023.

"The outpouring of concern and generous support from our guests around the globe who feel a profound connection to our island community has been overwhelming and deeply appreciated," says Four Seasons Resort Maui General Manager, Ben Shank. "As we move forward, Maui finds itself managing a double crisisthe devastating tragedy on the West Side and now, the resulting impact on the entire island's economy. While we grieve for our 'ohana in Lahaina and remain dedicated to supporting all those directly affected by the wildfires, we also acknowledge the urgent need to welcome back visitors to all other parts of the island, which are still open and beautiful."

Situated on the south side of Maui on the Wailea Coast, the Resort's new slate of guest experiences is designed to celebrate and support the local community and economy, and to help speed the recovery of those who have already suffered so much.

Story continues

"Love for Lahaina" Pop Up Series

Beginning October 1, 2023, Four Seasons Resort Maui presents Love for Lahaina, a series of culinary pop-up events developed to support the hospitality industry and farmers across the island who have been directly impacted by the recent wildfires on the island's west side. Popping up every Sunday in October, diners will enjoy signature dishes from celebrated Lahaina restaurants and beloved chefs, as they simultaneously give back directly to those who have lost their jobs and homes.

The October Love for Lahaina series includes:

October 1, 2023: Papa'aina by Chef Lee Anne Wong

October 8, 2023: Mala Ocean Tavern by Chef Kalei Ducheneau

October 15, 2023: Canoe Plant Dinner by Chef Samual Taganeca

October 22, 2023: Fleetwood's on Front St. by Chef Eric Morrisette

October 29, 2023: Chef Isaac Bancaco for his Lahaina 'Ohana

Each event will feature a three-course prix fixe family-style menu for USD 95++ per person, and includes a glass of Champagne compliments of Love for Lahaina sponsor Laurent-Perrier.

Space is limited, and reservations are highly recommended to secure seats. Call (808) 874-8000 or book online.

Cultural and Destination-Driven Hawaiian Fall Experiences | October 1  December 15, 2023

Fall programming at Four Seasons Resort Maui features a variety of complimentary activities from hands-on environmental experiences to workshops led by some of the island's most notable artists, and much more. The fall schedule, available from October 1 to December 15, 2023, is offered in addition to the Resort's robust calendar of cultural, culinary, and wellness activities, including the Resort's "Live Aloha" program, designed by Director of Hawaiian Programs Aunty Wendy Tuivaioge, to connect guests authentically to the Hawaiian culture.

"Through life's ebbs and flows, our spirit of aloha remains strong and steadfast," says Aunty Wendy. "I define aloha as a way of existence, of living in harmony with all those around you, in the spirit of love, compassion, and grace. It's oftentimes hard to put into words ... the best way to understand aloha is to visit Hawaii and experience it firsthand."

A sampling of the complimentary 2023 Fall Experiences at Four Seasons Resort Maui includes:

Art of Botanical Block Printing

Drawing inspiration from the island's natural beauty, design a botanical stamp and print stationery with fine art block artist Susanna Cromwell.

Poke Pop-Up

Sample different variations of one of Hawaii's most beloved dishes: poke. Paired with Maui Brewing Co.'s handcrafted beer, this pop-up featuring the Resort's talented culinary team is a guest favourite.

Coral Reefs 101

Learn about the delicate ocean ecosystem and how to restore and protect it through an onshore class and a hands-on snorkel experience led by Maui Undersea Adventures.

Discover the many Four Seasons Resort Maui Fall Experiences here.

Dos Hombres Cocina

The Resort welcomes guests, visitors and residents to experience Dos Hombres Cocina through December 2, 2023. A collaboration with artisanal mezcal brand Dos Hombres, from friends and former co-stars Aaron Paul and Bryan Cranston, the pop-up features a Hawaii-meets-Oaxaca menu utilizing fresh local ingredients effortlessly paired with inspired Dos Hombres craft cocktails. As part of the Resort's new Maui Strong offer, 100 percent of proceeds from the purchase of every signature Cantarito cocktail will go toward the Maui Strong Fund

M alama Hawaii

Guests who find themselves visiting the island with a renewed outlook and thoughtfulness for the environment can participate in the Resort's Malama Hawaii experience that allows visitors to give back the island in a meaningful way.

As needs continue to evolve, the Resort's Sustainability Manager Taylor Fujimoto has also developed timely voluntourism opportunities, which can be arranged through the Concierge.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea looks forward to welcoming guests to its warm and inviting shores this fall. For more information or reservations, visit fourseasons.com/maui or call (808) 874-8000.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/four-seasons-resort-maui-at-wailea-welcomes-the-return-of-travellers-to-support-island-recovery-efforts-this-fall-301927322.html

SOURCE Four Seasons Resort Maui
The growing frustrations of Speaker Kevin McCarthy and House Republicans have reached the point where the f-bombs start flying.

With intraparty tensions escalating ahead of a September 30 deadline to avoid a government shutdown, McCarthy on Thursday morning dared hardliners in his conference to try to oust him.

You guys think Im scared of a motion to vacate. Go f---ing ahead and do it. Im not scared, McCarthy reportedly told the House GOP conference during a closed-door meeting that was convened to discuss the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden.

McCarthy reportedly called on members to go ahead and file the f---ing motion to vacate the speakers job, the formal process by which he could be removed.

Republicans have been struggling to settle on a path forward as various factions make demands in the current fight over spending levels. The leverage point we have is this spending fight right now  its the only leverage point we have for the next year, Rep. Chip Roy of Texas, a leader of the ultraconservative House Freedom Caucus said on a radio talk show, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Far-right Republicans have pushed for more details about McCarthys plans to approve a stopgap measure to fund the government and pass some security-related appropriations bills. Hardliners in McCarthys conference have demanded policy concessions and expressed concerns over spending levels, border security and Ukraine funding. They insist that fiscal 2024 spending must be set to 2022 levels.

At the same time, the Republican Study Committee  a group that includes almost 80% of House Republicans  is now calling for any short-term spending bill to include border security measures as well as spending cuts. The group conducted a survey of its members and the results indicate that a sizable number of Republicans won't accept temporary funding without significant wins for conservatives, Axios reports.

Any plan with such significant wins for conservatives would be unlikely to pass the Senate, though, meaning that a government shutdown could be in the offing  a politically perilous result for McCarthy and Republicans.

Story continues

The speaker reportedly still has the support of the majority of House Republicans and received a standing ovation at Thursday mornings meeting, but under the terms of the deal he struck in January as he sought to win the speakers gavel any one lawmaker can seek his ouster. Most notably, Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida has threatened that he would seek to have McCarthy removed if the speaker brings up a short-term funding patch.

Gaetz charged this week that McCarthy has violated an agreement to bring up votes on term limits and balancing the budget. He reportedly shot back at McCarthy Thursday by saying the speaker should move the f---ing spending bills.

Instead of emotionally cursing, maybe the speaker should just keep his word from January on balanced budgets, term limits and single-subject spending bills, Gaetz told The Hill.

McCarthy acknowledged to reporters after Thursdays meeting that he had showed frustration with his fellow Republicans because he was frustrated with some people in the conference. Asked to share the precise language he had used if he did not mind, he laughed and said, I mind sharing with you.

McCarthy did say, though, that he told his members that after they return next week they will have to stay in session until they get the spending bills settled. Were going to get this done, he said. Nobody wins in a government shutdown. He later added that he would continue to try to do whats right for the American public. You know what, if it takes a fight, Ill have a fight, he said.

Why it matters: House Republicans, riven by internal conflicts and possessing a slim 222-212 majority, are failing at the basic tasks of governance. They have passed only one of the 12 annual appropriations bills. They had to put off a procedural vote Wednesday on a bill funding the Defense Department  which Republicans are typically happy to support  because they lacked the votes to advance it. And McCarthy this week ordered the Biden impeachment inquiry without holding a vote on the House floor, contrary to his initial stance on the issue, because some of his moderate members have been hesitant about launching the probe.

The bottom line: Congress has 16 days to prevent a partial shutdown, but some GOP lawmakers reportedly now see a shutdown as highly likely or even inevitable. The big challenge here for McCarthy, Punchbowl News said this morning, is that hes dealing with a group of legislative nihilists  lawmakers who dont much care about a government shutdown and are in no rush to find a solution to the looming funding crisis.

Like what you're reading? Sign up for our free newsletter.
Exploring Garmin Ltd's Dividend History, Growth, and Future Prospects

Garmin Ltd(NYSE:GRMN) recently announced a dividend of $0.73 per share, payable on 2023-09-29, with the ex-dividend date set for 2023-09-14. As investors look forward to this upcoming payment, the spotlight also shines on the company's dividend history, yield, and growth rates. Using the data from GuruFocus, let's deep dive into Garmin Ltds dividend performance and assess its sustainability.

What Does Garmin Ltd Do?

Garmin produces GPS-enabled hardware and software for five verticals: fitness, outdoors, auto, aviation, and marine. The company relies on licensing mapping data to enable its hardware specialized for often niche activities like scuba diving or sailing. Garmin operates in 100 countries and sells its products via distributors as well as relationships with original equipment manufacturers.

Garmin Ltd (GRMN): A Deep Dive into its Dividend Performance and Sustainability

A Glimpse at Garmin Ltd's Dividend History

Garmin Ltd has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 2003. Dividends are currently distributed on a quarterly basis. Garmin Ltd has increased its dividend each year since 2003. The stock is thus listed as a dividend achiever, an honor that is given to companies that have increased their dividend each year for at least the past 20 years.

Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends.

Garmin Ltd (GRMN): A Deep Dive into its Dividend Performance and Sustainability

Breaking Down Garmin Ltd's Dividend Yield and Growth

As of today, Garmin Ltd currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 2.76% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 2.76%. This suggests an expectation of same dividend payments over the next 12 months.

Over the past three years, Garmin Ltd's annual dividend growth rate was 8.50%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate decreased to 7.20% per year. And over the past decade, Garmin Ltd's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at 4.60%.

Story continues

Based on Garmin Ltd's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Garmin Ltd stock as of today is approximately 3.91%.

Garmin Ltd (GRMN): A Deep Dive into its Dividend Performance and Sustainability

The Sustainability Question: Payout Ratio and Profitability

To assess the sustainability of the dividend, one needs to evaluate the company's payout ratio. The dividend payout ratio provides insights into the portion of earnings the company distributes as dividends. A lower ratio suggests that the company retains a significant part of its earnings, thereby ensuring the availability of funds for future growth and unexpected downturns. As of 2023-06-30, Garmin Ltd's dividend payout ratio is 0.56.

Garmin Ltd's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Garmin Ltd's profitability 9 out of 10 as of 2023-06-30, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported positive net income for each of year over the past decade, further solidifying its high profitability.

Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook

To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Garmin Ltd's growth rank of 9 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors.

Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and Garmin Ltd's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. Garmin Ltd's revenue has increased by approximately 8.60% per year on average, a rate that outperforms than approximately 62.34% of global competitors.

The company's 3-year EPS growth rate showcases its capability to grow its earnings, a critical component for sustaining dividends in the long run. During the past three years, Garmin Ltd's earnings increased by approximately 0.30% per year on average, a rate that outperforms than approximately 32.02% of global competitors.

Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of 8.30%, which outperforms than approximately 43.46% of global competitors.

Next Steps

Given Garmin Ltd's consistent dividend history, robust growth metrics, and strong profitability, it appears well-positioned to maintain its dividend payments. Its payout ratio and growth rates suggest a sustainable dividend policy. However, investors should continue to monitor these metrics as market conditions evolve. GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Transparency Market Research

From 2022 to 2031, an increase in the prevalence of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is anticipated to fuel the market for ARDS devices

Wilmington, Delaware, United States, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The acute respiratory distress syndrome devices market was estimated to have acquired US$ 311.1 million in 2021. It is anticipated to register a 7.8% CAGR from 2022 to 2031 and by 2031 the market is likely to gain US$ 651.6 million.



The elderly population is prone to a number of chronic ailments, notably diabetes, being overweight, and heart disease. They are more likely to have weakened immune systems, which increases their vulnerability to illnesses like pneumonia.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that ARDS yearly affects about 150 million individuals globally. It is projected that the acute respiratory distress syndrome devices market would expand quickly in the next years due to the high frequency of ARDS.

Request Sample Copy (To Understand the Complete Structure of this Report [Summary + TOC]): https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=43673

Connect with our team of research specialists and unlock the optimal solution for driving your business growth

Market Snapshot:

Report Coverage Details Market Revenue US$ 311.1 Mn Estimated Value US$ 651.6 M Growth Rate - CAGR 7.8% Forecast Period 2022-2031 No. of Pages 183 Pages Market Segmentation By Type, End-user and Region Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, South America Companies Covered Koninklijke Philips N.V., Medtronic, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited, Dragerwerk AG & Co. KGaA, Smiths Medical (ICU Medical), Hamilton Medical, GE HealthCare, ResMed, Getinge AB, Other prominent players

Key Findings of the Market Report

Major manufacturers of acute respiratory distress syndrome devices are concentrating on making considerable investments in the research and development of new technologies.

Story continues

Advanced ARDS technology has the potential to enhance patient outcomes, shorten hospital stays, and save money on medical expenses.

In the next years, it is predicted that an aging population and an increase in chronic illness cases would increase demand for ARDS devices.



Market Trends for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Devices

During the forecast period, the acute respiratory distress syndrome devices market is anticipated to be dominated by the hospitals end-user segment. The majority of ARDS patients receive their treatment in hospitals. These individuals frequently need to be hospitalized and closely watched, which can only be done in a hospital setting.

The infrastructure and resources needed to enable the use of ARDS devices are available in hospitals. They have the staff members, such as medical professionals, nurses, as well as respiratory therapists, required for operating these devices. Hospitals are further able to provide the finest care for ARDS patients because to robust infrastructure.

During the projected period, it is predicted that the diagnostic & monitoring devices type segment would have the biggest share. The management and treatment of ARDS involves the use of diagnostic and monitoring tools. In the foreseeable future, the high incidence of ARDS is projected to increase demand for these devices.

Devices for diagnosis and monitoring track vital indicators like lung function and oxygen saturation levels. This makes it possible for medical personnel to start quick and efficient therapy. Early ARDS diagnosis and management can enhance patient outcomes and shorten hospital stays.

For In-depth Competitive Analysis, Buy Now: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=43673<ype=S

Global Market for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Devices: Regional Outlook

Various reasons are propelling the growth of the acute respiratory distress syndrome devices market in different countries. These are:

During the projection period, North America is predicted to have an overwhelming share. In the near future, market growth is projected to be boosted by an increase in the prevalence of ARDS and other respiratory illnesses, an increase in healthcare spending, and the existence of large suppliers.

For example, Remestemcel-L received Fast Track designation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 2020 for the management of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) brought on by coronavirus illness (COVID-19). MultiStem cell treatment for the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) program received the Regenerative Medicine Advanced treatment (RMAT) designation from the US Food and Drug Administration in September 2020, according to a statement from Athersys.

During the forecast period, the industry in the Asia Pacific market is expected to expand significantly. The region's market statistics are anticipated to increase due to the widespread incidence of respiratory illnesses, rise in the elderly population, and growing public awareness of modern ARDS devices.



Global Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Devices Market: Key Players

There are just a few significant competitors in the extremely competitive global market for acute respiratory distress syndrome. To stay competitive in the industry, market players are implementing a variety of methods such as new product releases, partnerships, and collaborations.

The following companies are well-known participants in the global acute respiratory distress syndrome devices market:

Koninklijke Philips N.V.

Medtronic

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited

Dragerwerk AG & Co. KGaA

Smiths Medical (ICU Medical)

Hamilton Medical

GE HealthCare

ResMed

Getinge AB

Other prominent players

If You want to Purchase Specific Insights by Segment/Region/Competitor, Request for Customization: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=CR&rep_id=43673

Key developments in the global acute respiratory distress syndrome devices market are:

Market Player Year Key Developments Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited 2021 The new Optiflow+ nasal high flow treatment device from Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited is intended to offer respiratory assistance to patients suffering from ARDS and other respiratory disorders.

Global Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Devices Market Segmentation

Type

Therapeutic Devices Mechanical Ventilators PAP Others

Diagnostic & Monitoring Devices



End-user

Hospitals

Specialty Centers

Others



Region

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

South America



Read More Related Reports:

Demand for Cardiovascular Diagnostic & Monitoring Devices - Market Size, Trends, Analysis, Scope, Growth Drivers

Preeclampsia Diagnostics Market Size [2023-2031] | Industry Share, Growth

Cervical Cancer Diagnostic Tests Industry Size, Growth Analysis, Future Scenario 2023-2031

About Transparency Market Research

Transparency Market Research, a global market research company registered at Wilmington, Delaware, United States, provides custom research and consulting services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insights for thousands of decision makers. Our experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools & techniques to gather and analyses information.

Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.

Contact:

Nikhil Sawlani

Transparency Market Research Inc.

CORPORATE HEADQUARTER DOWNTOWN,

1000 N. West Street,

Suite 1200, Wilmington, Delaware 19801 USA

Tel: +1-518-618-1030

USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453

Website: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com

Blog: https://tmrblog.com

Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com




The Business Research Company's global market reports are now updated with the latest market sizing information for the year 2023 and forecasted to 2032

LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As per The Business Research Company, the global aerospace materials market is set for continued expansion, with the market size projected to increase from $19.68 billion in 2022 to $20.46 billion in 2023, representing a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9%. Looking ahead, the market is expected to surge to $25.69 billion by 2027, with a CAGR of 5.9%. The aerospace materials market growth is driven by several key factors, including the rising adoption of lightweight materials, increased government backing, a surge in commercial aircraft deliveries, and rapid urbanization.

(PRNewsfoto/The Business Research Company)

Diverse Competitive Landscape

The global aerospace materials market boasts a diverse competitive landscape, with numerous players vying for market share. In 2022, the top ten competitors in the aerospace materials market collectively accounted for 23.08% of the total market. Among these, Allegheny Technologies Incorporated held the largest share at 4.86%, followed closely by Arconic Corporation (4.64%), Constellium SE (3.82%), Hexcel Corporation (2.46%), and Solvay SA (2.32%), among others.

Learn More On The Aerospace Materials Market Report  https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/aerospace-materials-global-market-report

Innovative 3D Printing in Aerospace Materials

Major aerospace materials companies are increasingly harnessing the power of 3D printing to revolutionize aerospace materials. This innovative technology enables the creation of highly durable parts capable of withstanding the harsh conditions of aerospace environments. For instance, Rayvatek, a Taiwan-based additive manufacturing technology company, recently introduced groundbreaking aerospace materials using SLM Solutions' metal 3D printing technology. This advancement allows for the production of 3D-printed lattice structures and internal cooling channels, enhancing part quality, reducing weight, and saving fuel. Such innovations are ideally suited to meet the rigorous demands of the aerospace industry.

Story continues

North America Leading the Way

North America takes the lead in the aerospace materials market, with a market worth of $9,886.89 million in 2022. This market represents a noteworthy 0.038% of the region's GDP and boasts a per capita consumption of $19.65, significantly higher than the global average. The region's market growth is further bolstered by increased government investments in aerospace development and modernization. Notably, the Canadian government allocated $163.4 million in funding over five years for the modernization of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) in 2021.

The future of the aerospace materials market is marked by innovation, government support, and technological advancements, ensuring its continued ascent to new heights.

Request A Free Sample Of The Aerospace Materials Market Report  https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/sample.aspx?id=5657&type=smp

Aerospace Materials Market Segmentation

The segmentation of the worldwide aerospace materials market includes:

Categorized by Type: Aluminum Alloys, Steel Alloys, Titanium Alloys, Super Alloys, and Composites. Distinguished by Aircraft Type: Commercial Aircraft, Business and General Aviation, Civil Helicopters, and Military Aircraft. Classified by Application: Covering Aero Structures, Components, Cabin Interiors, Propulsion Systems, Equipment, Systems, and Support, Satellites, as well as Construction and Insulation Components.

View More Similar Market Reports:

Aerospace Composites Global Market Report 2023

https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/aerospace-composites-global-market-report

Aerospace Foams Global Market Report 2023

https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/aerospace-foams-global-market-report

Aerospace Plastics Global Market Report 2023

https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/aerospace-plastics-global-market-report

Interested to know more about The Business Research Company?

The Business Research Company has published over 6500+ detailed industry reports, spanning over 3000+ market segments and 60 geographies. The reports draw on 1,500,000 datasets, extensive secondary research, and exclusive insights from interviews with industry leaders.

The World's Most Comprehensive Database

The Global Market Model, The Business Research Company's flagship product, is a market intelligence platform covering various macroeconomic indicators and metrics across 58 geographies and 27 industries. The Global Market Model covers multi-layered datasets that help its users make better strategic decisions.

Contact Information

The Business Research Company

Europe: +44 207 1930 708

Asia: +91 8897263534

Americas: +1 315 623 0293

Email: info@tbrc.info

Follow Us On:

LinkedIn: https://in.linkedin.com/company/the-business-research-company

Twitter: https://twitter.com/tbrc_info

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBusinessResearchCompany

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC24_fI0rV8cR5DxlCpgmyFQ

Blog: https://blog.tbrc.info/

Healthcare Blog: https://healthcareresearchreports.com/

Global Market Model: https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/global-market-model

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1751581/tbrc_logo.jpg

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-aerospace-materials-market-analysis-market-size-competitive-landscape-and-key-trends--by-the-business-research-company-301927740.html

SOURCE The Business Research Company
By Jonathan Stempel

(Reuters) - Google agreed to pay $155 million to settle claims by California and private plaintiffs that the search engine company misled consumers about how it tracks their locations, and used their data without consent.

Both settlements resolve claims that the Alphabet Inc unit deceived people into believing they maintained control over how Google collected and used their personal data.

The company was accused of being able to "profile" people and target them with advertising even if they turned off their "Location History" setting, and deceive people about their ability to block ads they did not want.

"Google was telling its users one thing--that it would no longer track their location once they opted out--but doing the opposite and continuing to track its users' movements for its own commercial gain," California Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement. "That's unacceptable."

The California settlement requires Google to pay $93 million, and disclose more about how it tracks people's whereabouts and uses data it collects.

Money from Google's $62 million settlement with private plaintiffs would, after deducting legal fees, go to court-approved nonprofit groups that track internet privacy concerns.

Lawyers for the plaintiffs said this made sense because it was "infeasible" to distribute money to the approximately 247.7 million U.S. adults with mobile devices.

Some critics say this type of settlement, known as "cy pres," offers little benefit to class members.

Google denied liability, and both settlements require court approval.

Last November, Google agreed to pay $391.5 million to resolve similar allegations by 40 U.S. states.

The Mountain View, California-based company has also reached $124.9 million of settlements with Arizona and Washington.

A spokesperson for Google on Friday referred to a blog post discussing the multistate settlement, and said it related to "outdated product policies that we changed years ago."

Story continues

Lawyers for the private plaintiffs did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Google generated $110.9 billion of advertising revenue in the first half of 2023, accounting for 81% of its total $137.7 billion of revenue.

(Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Leslie Adler and Daniel Wallis)
glaxo smith kline

GSK is opening a new 65m drug factory in Hertfordshire in a major boost for Britains life sciences sector.

The pharmaceutical giant said the cutting-edge manufacturing facility will allow it to quickly scale up production of new medicines for viruses such as HIV. The factory is at its life sciences campus in Ware, where it already employs around 1,350 people.

Science minister George Freeman hailed the opening as evidence of the strength of the UKs 94bn life sciences sector, which continues to attract private investment into local economies and add to the 280,000 jobs the industry already supports in clusters all over the country.

It follows swirling concerns that Britain has been slipping down the rankings of global pharmaceutical hubs, amid criticism from industry chiefs over the UKs very unattractive tax policies.

Earlier this year, AstraZeneca said it had chosen Ireland over the UK for its new $400m (320m) drug factory, with chief executive Pascal Soriot saying the initial plan had been to build the factory in the North West of England.

Mr Soriot said: We really have invested a lot [in the UK] and the country was making a lot of progress in building a life sciences sector. But, I have to say in the recent past, its not been as supportive as we would have thought.

He said pharma businesses need to be able to generate good returns and [have] incentive to invest, which requires stable tax rates. Unfortunately, here, its going up, he said.

In February, GSK chief Emma Walmsley said Britain needed to make the right decisions on life sciences - Luke MacGregor/Bloomberg

Pharmaceutical bosses have been particularly concerned over ballooning NHS taxes, with the sector facing a 3.3bn bill this year compared to 563m in 2021.

Drug companies are liable for a levy designed to protect the health service from rising prices that is based around how much the NHSs drug bill has increased by.

It has risen dramatically because of higher spending on Covid treatments during the pandemic. That has sparked frustration within the industry that drug makers have been left to foot the bill for providing jabs and therapies.

Story continues

The industry is in talks with the Government over how the levy scheme will function next year.

GSK chief Dame Emma Walmsley has raised the alarm about soaring costs for pharma companies in Britain. In February, she said the country was at a tipping point and needed to make the right decisions now on life sciences.

Dame Emma said the sector understood that there was a lot of pressure on public finances, but added: We do need to sit down now and start talking to make sure that the next scheme, which will start in 2024, gets this balance right.

Official government figures in July revealed that the UK had been hit by a collapse in foreign investment into its life sciences sector. More cash is now being channelled into Ireland, Singapore and India, following the 47pc slump in spending in the UK pharmaceutical sector from overseas investors.

Mr Freeman said: Investments from the private sector leaders like GSK are a critical part of the deep, long-term partnership between government, industry, investors and the NHS, underpinning the success of UK life sciences.

GSKs new facility will be crucial to its ambitions to help provide more treatments for HIV. It has already developed long-acting injections that could mean people no longer have to take daily pills.

It is also working on a potential cure for HIV that will essentially wake up the virus within peoples immune cells and then allow them to be targeted.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
Investors are often guided by the idea of discovering 'the next big thing', even if that means buying 'story stocks' without any revenue, let alone profit. Unfortunately, these high risk investments often have little probability of ever paying off, and many investors pay a price to learn their lesson. While a well funded company may sustain losses for years, it will need to generate a profit eventually, or else investors will move on and the company will wither away.

So if this idea of high risk and high reward doesn't suit, you might be more interested in profitable, growing companies, like NAHL Group (LON:NAH). While profit isn't the sole metric that should be considered when investing, it's worth recognising businesses that can consistently produce it.

See our latest analysis for NAHL Group

NAHL Group's Improving Profits

NAHL Group has undergone a massive growth in earnings per share over the last three years. So much so that this three year growth rate wouldn't be a fair assessment of the company's future. As a result, we'll zoom in on growth over the last year, instead. In impressive fashion, NAHL Group's EPS grew from UK0.0034 to UK0.0082, over the previous 12 months. It's not often a company can achieve year-on-year growth of 143%.

Top-line growth is a great indicator that growth is sustainable, and combined with a high earnings before interest and taxation (EBIT) margin, it's a great way for a company to maintain a competitive advantage in the market. While we note NAHL Group achieved similar EBIT margins to last year, revenue grew by a solid 6.4% to UK41m. That's a real positive.

The chart below shows how the company's bottom and top lines have progressed over time. For finer detail, click on the image.

Since NAHL Group is no giant, with a market capitalisation of UK26m, you should definitely check its cash and debt before getting too excited about its prospects.

Story continues

Are NAHL Group Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders?

Prior to investment, it's always a good idea to check that the management team is paid reasonably. Pay levels around or below the median, can be a sign that shareholder interests are well considered. For companies with market capitalisations under UK160m, like NAHL Group, the median CEO pay is around UK281k.

NAHL Group offered total compensation worth UK239k to its CEO in the year to December 2022. That comes in below the average for similar sized companies and seems pretty reasonable. CEO remuneration levels are not the most important metric for investors, but when the pay is modest, that does support enhanced alignment between the CEO and the ordinary shareholders. It can also be a sign of a culture of integrity, in a broader sense.

Should You Add NAHL Group To Your Watchlist?

NAHL Group's earnings per share growth have been climbing higher at an appreciable rate. This appreciable increase in earnings could be a sign of an upward trajectory for the company. At the same time the reasonable CEO compensation reflects well on the board of directors. So NAHL Group looks like it could be a good quality growth stock, at first glance. That's worth watching. It's still necessary to consider the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 2 warning signs with NAHL Group (at least 1 which doesn't sit too well with us) , and understanding them should be part of your investment process.

There's always the possibility of doing well buying stocks that are not growing earnings and do not have insiders buying shares. But for those who consider these important metrics, we encourage you to check out companies that do have those features. You can access a free list of them here.

Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction.

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.
Some 333 million children worldwide are living in extreme poverty  a decrease of almost 50 million over the course of the past decade, according to a new report from the UN Childrens Fund (UNICEF) and the World Bank. Therefore, one in every six children is forced to survive on less than $2.15 a day.

The reports authors say that millions more should have been lifted out of extreme poverty had it not been for three years of Covid-19-related disruptions, a WAM report said.

UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said that the effects of the pandemic as well as conflict, climate change and economic shocks, have stalled progress on ending child poverty.

Redoubled efforts

She called for redoubled efforts to ensure that all children have access to essential services, including education, nutrition, health care and social protection, while addressing the root causes of extreme poverty.

We cannot fail these children now, she said.

The report shows that globally, children comprise more than 50% of the extreme poor, despite making up only a third of the worlds population.

Nearly 90% of children caught in extreme poverty reside in either sub-Saharan Africa or South Asia. Sub-Saharan Africa has both the highest rate, at 40% in 2022, and the largest share of the worlds extreme poor children, over 71%  a significant jump from just under 55% 10 years ago.

Rapid population growth

The authors say that rapid population growth and limited social protection measures have contributed to this steep increase. Meanwhile, all other regions in the world except the Middle East and North Africa have seen a steady decline in extreme poverty rates.

The report warns that, at current rates of reduction, the Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) of ending extreme child poverty by 2030, or SDG 1, will not be met.-- TradeArabia News Service
Good morning.

Access and aptitude are not connected. Those words come from former IBM CEO Ginny Rometty, who in 2012 became the first woman to lead the 112-year-old company. The adage is one that underscores her tenure at the tech company, where she championed a skills-first approach to hiring. But shes far from the only CEO to echo this maxim.

Talent is everywhere. Access is not, says Ken Frazier, one of a handful of Black Fortune 500 chief executives during his decade-long stint as CEO of Merck. Its a shared sentiment between the two that's served as a catalyst for OneTen, an organization that aims to narrow the opportunity gap for Black Americans without a four-year degree by placing them into family-sustaining jobs, those paying $50,000 a year.

But the nonprofits mission is far more expansive than simple job placements. Frazier, who serves as a cochair alongside Rometty, says the organization was born out of a need for skilled workers across industriesa shortfall thats been exacerbated by corporate piety to hiring candidates with a four-year degree.

Its a myopic allegiance that has, for years, greatly restricted the aperture for diverse hires, though thats starting to change. We thought by putting this focus on skills rather than credentials, we would democratize access to quality jobs in our country, says Frazier.

According to the 2020 U.S. census, about three in four Black Americans dont have a four-year college degree. That percentage is even higher for Latinos (82%) and 66% for Caucasians. Meanwhile, 60% of jobs today say they need a four-year degree. If you can remove that as criteria and open your mindset to looking at skills as another path, how many more talented, potential employees can you gain? muses OneTen CEO Debbie Dyson.

Its a question hiring managers have been forced to contend with, though limited headway has been made. In a new OneTen report, shared exclusively with Fortune, just over half of surveyed hiring managers say removing four-year degree requirements would positively impact their company's hiring practices; only 31% report actively doing so.

Story continues

Several factors contribute to this gap in ideology and execution. Many erroneously believe candidates without a college education are wholly unqualified for even middle-skill positions, traditionally requiring more than a high school diploma but less than a college degree. Frazier characterizes it as a mindset problem. A second issue, he says, is a failure to adopt a common language and methodology that allows hiring managers to deduce whether the life experience of a non-degreed applicant has provided them with the requisite skills to be successful. How do you put in place the right interviewing tactics and skills that allow somebody to test whether a person has the necessary grit, adaptability, teamwork, all of those things that we really want in our jobs? We have to teach people to interview for what the job requires and not rely on the bias toward credentials, he says.

Such bias is largely unconscious, Rometty tells me, and attributable to yearsnay, decadesin which four-year degrees have been heralded as the market requirement, suggesting some innate value for an organization.

Of note, the report also found that 97% of hiring managers equate a traditional four-year degree with higher proficiency in soft skills. And nearly every surveyed hiring manager said soft skills, such as communication, interpersonal, or critical thinking, factor most strongly into their consideration when filling a role.

Its a puzzling statistic, given that my collegiate years did not train me on soft skills nearly as much as my on-the-ground work experience, I admit to Rometty.

Dyson offers her own theory. I think there's probably just this belief that people with four-year degrees are more socialized or of a certain class and that their ability to communicate effectively, for instance, is more highlighted when theyve participated in a college curriculum course." Theres also an element of distrust against those without a traditional college degree, she says. Even if my resume says I'm a master communicator, I think there's disbelief because I don't have the degree to back up that I have good analytical skills. There's a bit more pressure to prove it, which doesnt exist for people with a college certification.

The irony, Frazier notes matter-of-factly, is that many Americans with a four-year college degree work in fields where they didnt receive a formal education. The difference is that such a pivot is branded as transferable skills for degree holders.

Though a skills-first approach to hiring requires a complete overhaul of a company's plumbing, employers that invest in qualified non-degreed workers reap substantial financial rewards on the talent side, Rometty says. The report finds that such hires are happier and more engaged at work, more likely to take additional online courses to upskill, more productive after one year, and more retentive. Whats more, theres often a more suitable skill set match between these candidates and the jobs for which they're selected, Frazier says.

While CEO of Merck, he recalls that employees with traditional degrees in roles like clinical development or data translation quickly became restless, bored, and detached from the role because they were overeducated for the job, leading to turnover. If we put people who really want to do these jobs in the jobs, the retention is much better, Frazier says. It forces companies to focus much more on the relevant skills the job actually requires and to try to match those with candidates.

Skills-focused hiring seems like a patently obvious motion to increase representationwhether racial, socioeconomic, or some other demographicbut the report indicates a lack of widespread adoption in the workforce.

Rometty and Frazier are adamant that change starts at the top, hence their support of a CEO-led initiative that counts a coterie of whos who among Fortune 500 executives, including Nikes John Donahue, Bank of Americas Brian Moynihan, and Lowe's Marvin Ellison. If CEOs endorse vetting all applicantsthose with four-year degrees and those withoutas part of the companys talent strategy, it removes much of the risk for hiring managers, they argue.

It also gives hiring managers the green light to articulate in job descriptions whats needed to effectively perform a role, codevelop programs and apprenticeships that support non-degreed individuals, create management training, and leverage tools to assess cognitive ability and critical thinking during the interview process

In fact, many employees who initially lack four-year degrees later obtain higher education. Toward the end of Rometty's tenure as IBM CEO, about 15% of new hires did not have a four-year degree, and roughly 74% went on to get a degree later. At the time, almost half of IBMs roles did not require a four-year degree, down from nearly 100% when she joined as CEO. She adds that a simple policy change companies can implement is reverse-engineering student loan reimbursements. Many employers compensate workers after theyve received a degree, but for this segment, they don't have the money to pay upfront necessarily. Instead, companies can offer payment upfront, stipulating that employees obtain a relevant certification.

Though CEO buy-in is vitally important to promoting and entrenching a skills-first strategy, Dyson argues that its efficacy rests in the hands of those a few levels below the CEO: managers. A CEO can say something, and employees listen but walk away in disagreement, she says. The challenge, then, is getting managers to be receptive to the idea, which requires companies to involve them as part of the solution.

You have to show value creation throughout the company. Why is it important for us as an organization to lean into this potential path for new talent to come in and join our organization? How can you, as a leader or individual contributor, be part of the success? Dyson says. There's a little bit of what's in it for me. So if you can encourage employees to be part of the solutionlike, 'Hey, if we bring in more talent, perhaps your workload gets softened upyoull likely see a greater willingness at the middle layer to champion the cause.

Ruth Umoh

@ruthumohnews

ruth.umoh@fortune.com

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

More from Fortune:

5 side hustles where you may earn over $20,000 per yearall while working from home

Want more for your money? These 14 savings accounts have rates of 5% APY (and higher)

Buying a house? Here's how much to save

This is how much money you need to earn annually to comfortably buy a $600,000 home


sesame / Getty Images

After the economic crash of 2008 when millions of Americans lost their homes, the Consumer Protection Act and Dodd-Frank Wall Street reform created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) in 2011. The CFPBs stated mission? To defend Americans from unfair, predatory, and illegal financial practices.

See: 5 Reasons the Housing Market is Reversing

Find: Why Retirees Are Expected To Sell Their Homes in These 10 Cities

Per Reuters, between 2012 and 2022, the CFPB pushed over 300 enforcement actions, putting $16 billion back into the hands of consumers wronged by financial institutions. Thats now being threatened by trade groups that represent the payday loan industry  a sector thats faced immense scrutiny and lawsuits from the CFPB. One of the most sweeping CFPB regulations was enacted in 2017, one which barred high-interest payday lenders from repeatedly charging a borrowers bank account after two consecutive unsuccessful attempts.

The Community Financial Services Association of America and Consumer Service Alliance of Texas argue that the CFPBs funding structure is unconstitutional. Since its creation, the CFPBs funding comes directly from the Federal Reserve rather than going through an annual appropriations process with Congress. On Oct. 3, this case faces the Supreme Court after an adverse ruling from the Fifth Circuit Court which deemed the funding structure unconstitutional. The Supreme Court is expected to have a verdict by June next year.

Supreme Court Decision Could Impact U.S. Economy

Revoking the CFPBs permanent budget could have dire consequences for consumers and the economy. Ellen Harnick of the Center for Responsible Lending shared her concern in an interview with Reuters: The market disruption, if existing rules are called into question, would be hard to overstate All of the problems that led to the creation of the CFPB would now be unattended to.

Gutting the CFPBs funding could leave consumers at the mercy of financial institutions and further stall the housing market as mortgage lenders grapple with new rules. During a speech at the Mortgage Collaborative National Conference, CFPB director Rohit Chopra shared the following statement about the potential situation: Reverting to a system without these regulations would create uncertainty for the mortgage industry and the economy.

Story continues

Chopra continued, And even putting aside the questions about existing rules, moving to a world where the future of housing finance oversight is uncertain and unknown, including the number of years we would be living under such mystery, should raise serious shared trepidations among market participants, financial markets, and consumers alike.

In an amicus brief, The Mortgage Bankers Association, the National Association of Home Builders, and the National Association of Realtors also supported the CFPB in this legal battle.

The litigation and widespread uncertainty that would likely result from a decision that suddenly called all the CFPBs rules into question would prove devastating to the mortgage market, the groups stated, per Business Insider.

Any freeze on new loans would devastate consumers options for buying or selling homes, given that most people need financing to purchase a house, they continued. Almost 80% of all homebuyers use a loan to purchase a home, and among first-time homebuyers that number jumps as high as 97%. Not only would first time homebuyers be devastated by an inability to obtain a mortgage, but minority communities also would be disproportionately negatively impacted.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Housing Market: Potential Mortgage Freeze Could Devastate Homebuyers Chances  Heres How
Encryptus has joined forces with HyperBC to offer USD Stables to Fiat payouts method as Bank Wires, Mobile Wallets, Gift Cards and Mobile Top Ups in 100+ Countries.

Vilnius, Lithuania, Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In a landmark collaboration, Encryptus, a licensed and compliant Crypto to Fiat Payout Infrastructure provider has joined forces with HyperBC to offer USD Stables to Fiat payouts method as Bank Wires, Mobile Wallets, Gift Cards and Mobile Top Ups in 100+ Countries.

With this partnership the HyperBC powered merchants will be able to get access compliant fiat payouts. In addition Encryptus will be offering the card services in partnership with HyperBC. Joseph, CEO of HyperBC said "HyperBC is a market leader in digital asset custody and payment solutions. By offering both MPC Wallet-as-a-Service and payment processing API to adopt crypto as payment, HyperBC aims to be a Bank-as-a-Service provider. Earlier this year, we started an aggregation programme for enterprise white-label cards to explore the integration of fiat currencies. Cooperating with Encryptus will further extend our product capabilities in facilitating the circulation of crypto and fiat currencies, using MPC as the underlying core technology, and ultimately creating an enterprise-grade infrastructure of WaaS+BaaS"

This partnership will allow Encryptus powered businesses to offer customized Crypto-cards to their users globally. Customized cards would be available in both physical and virtual form, issued under Visa, MasterCard and UnionPay. The cards are accepted by more than 50 million merchants in over 176 countries. The customer will be able to spend their crypto and withdrawal fiat currency in the real world.

In addition HyperBC business customers will now have access to a wide array of options for off-ramping their crypto funds, ensuring convenience and flexibility. With coverage in 79 countries for Bank Transfers, 39 countries for Mobile Wallets, and a staggering 115+ countries for gift cards and mobile top-ups, Encryptus truly puts the power in the hands of its users. Users from most of the African and APAC countries would get access to fiat funds within minutes at a fraction of the price.

Story continues

Supporting Institutions by Empowering Its Users

This partnership between Encryptus and HyperBC heralds a new era of financial empowerment. By combining Encryptus's extensive payout network with HyperBC's globally accepted card solution, users would be able to experience a seamless, secure, and versatile financial ecosystem. Whether it's sending funds across borders or making purchases worldwide, this partnership is set to make waves in the world of global transactions.

At the heart of this partnership lies a commitment to putting the users first. Encryptus and HyperBC understand the need of launching compliant and licensed products to cater to diverse needs of their users. This collaboration represents a significant step towards providing them with the tools they need to navigate the modern financial landscape with confidence and ease.

This exciting new partnership is another significant step in our mission to get consumers better connected globally by offering multiple payout methods to encash cryptos. Encryptus and HyperBC bring seamless, secure, compliant and low-cost payment solutions to a wider audience, thereby facilitating financial inclusion. said Shantnoo Saxsena, Founder of Encryptus.

Joseph, CEO of HyperBC further said "This partnership is a brilliant step of our milestone to enable every business to easily and securely support digital assets and cryptocurrency payments in a regulated and compliant way. We will work together with Encryptus to bring best solutions for the crypto community"

About Encryptus

Encryptus started out as a crypto advisory company in London back in 2020, and since then got approvals from a couple of countries for buying and selling crypto assets. Encryptus is operated by an experienced team of experts who thoroughly understand the risks, compliances, and opportunities in the crypto space. We have made it our mission to empower licensed financial services companies in crypto adoption!

For any queries feel free to reach out Abhi@encryptus.io

Location: Lithuania, Europe

SOURCE: Encryptus



Disclaimer : There is no offer to sell, no solicitation of an offer to buy, and no recommendation of any security or any other product or service in this article. This is not investment advice. Please do your own research.








Funds will fortify school's financial foundation, ensure ability to attract top talent, and empower INSEAD to drive change

FONTAINEBLEAU, France, SINGAPORE and ABU DHABI, UAE, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- INSEAD, The Business School for the World, announced the successful conclusion of its largest fundraising campaign to date, the Force for Good campaign.

INSEAD, The Business School for the World (PRNewsfoto/INSEAD, The Business School for the World)

Launched in 2013, the campaign has exceeded expectations, surpassing its initial 200-million-euro target to reach an impressive 310 million euros. An outstanding 52% of INSEAD's alumni and students actively participated in the campaign, surpassing the 50% participation goal.

The campaign's close on 31 August 2023 coincided with the end of the transformative deanship of Professor Ilian Mihov. "Being at the helm of INSEAD and witnessing the school's remarkable growth over the past decade has been an incredibly rewarding experience," says Mihov. "The challenges of recent years have united our global community, fostering resilience, passion, and entrepreneurial spirit. I am confident that the school will achieve even greater heights under the leadership of Dean Francisco Veloso due to the remarkable capabilities of this community. The Force for Good campaign serves as a powerful testament to our collective potential."

Campaign Highlights

Building a Culture of Philanthropy

Under Dean Mihov's visionary leadership, INSEAD has made significant strides in building a strong culture of philanthropy. Alumni contributed 92% of total funds raised during the 10-year campaign. Additionally, many alumni generously volunteered their time, knowledge, and networks.

Addressing Global Challenges

The success of INSEAD's Force for Good campaign demonstrates a united commitment to addressing global challenges, including sustainability. Initiatives supported by the campaign include:

The Hoffmann Global Institute for Business and Society  integrating sustainability across teaching, research, and operations at INSEAD.

INSEAD's flagship MBA programme  now incorporating sustainable development themes into its 14 core courses, with a new capstone emphasising sustainable business practices.

A commitment to reducing INSEAD's greenhouse gas emissions by 67% by 2035. INSEAD shares best practices at Davos, ChangeNOW, and other crucial events and is actively involved in UNPRME, the Business Schools for Climate Leadership alliance, and other organisations that are fostering positive global change.

Story continues

Fostering Research and Innovation

Driven by entrepreneurial spirit, INSEAD remains a trailblazer in knowledge creation. Campaign support enables faculty to conduct rigorous and relevant research on critical issues, such as gender balance, digital disruption, and leadership education. Examples include:

Professors W. Chan Kim and Renee Mauborgne  renowned co-authors of the global bestseller Blue Ocean Strategy . Kim and Mauborgne continue to receive accolades for their influential "nondisruptive creation" approach to business growth and success and were recently honoured in the Harvard Business Review's 100th-anniversary celebration.

The INSEAD Gender Initiative plays an important role in creating knowledge that increases our collective understanding of gender dynamics and the causes and consequences of gender imbalances. The Initiative is leading gender research, working on VR teaching tools and engaging leaders at alumni events, open webinars and conferences like the ChangeNOW summit.

The world's largest Virtual Reality (VR) library for management education  created and stewarded at INSEAD, featuring 20 VR experiences focused on leadership, strategy, sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

The INSEAD Learning Hub  a first-of-its-kind mobile app for business leaders, offering comprehensive content, community, curation, and credentials to support lifelong learning.

Championing Diversity and Scholarships

INSEAD's dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion is vividly reflected in its scholarship program. Campaign highlights include:

58 million euros in gifts allocated to merit and diversity scholarships during the 10-year campaign.

304 scholarships awarded in 2023 alone , a notable increase compared to 2013; 72% of recipients hail from emerging countries and 48% are women.

The Claude and Tuulikki Janssen Endowed Scholarship, made possible by an endowed gift from Mrs. Tuulikki Janssen in 2022 to celebrate the legacy of Claude Janssen, one of INSEAD's founders.

Expanding Reach and Influence

A portion of campaign funds are dedicated to launching new centres, initiatives, and institutes that bridge the gap between academia and real-world practice. These include the afore-mentioned Hoffmann Global Institute for Business and Society (2018), the Stone Centre for the Study of Wealth Inequality (2017), and the recently launched Sustainable Business Initiative, supporting research from environmental, social, and governance perspectives.

INSEAD has allocated funds to accommodate its growing community of students and alumni, now exceeding 67,000, by expanding the Asia Campus in Singapore, establishing the San Francisco Hub for Business Innovation, and advancing the Europe Campus Renewal project in Fontainebleau, transforming INSEAD's European footprint into a model of teaching excellence, sustainability, and well-being.

The INSEAD Force for Good Campaign video

For more information, visit the Force for Good Campaign website.

About INSEAD, The Business School for the World

As one of the world's leading and largest graduate business schools, INSEAD brings together people, cultures and ideas to develop responsible leaders who transform business and society. Our research, teaching and partnerships reflect this global perspective and cultural diversity.

With locations in Europe (France), Asia (Singapore), the Middle East (Abu Dhabi), and now North America (San Francisco), INSEAD's business education and research spans four regions. Our 166 renowned Faculty members from 41 countries inspire more than 1,500 degree participants annually in our Master in Management, MBA, Global Executive MBA, Specialised Master's degrees (Executive Master in Finance and Executive Master in Change) and PhD programmes. In addition, more than 11,000 executives participate in INSEAD Executive Education programmes each year.

INSEAD continues to conduct cutting-edge research and innovate across all our programmes. We provide business leaders with the knowledge and awareness to operate anywhere. Our core values drive academic excellence and serve the global community as The Business School for the World. More information about INSEAD can be found at www.insead.edu.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/insead-force-for-good-campaign-concludes-by-surpassing-all-goals-301925962.html

SOURCE INSEAD, The Business School for the World
On September 11, 2023, Douglas Valenti, the CEO of QuinStreet Inc (NASDAQ:QNST), purchased 2,500 shares of the company. This move is significant as insider buying often indicates a strong belief in the company's future prospects.



Who is Douglas Valenti?

Douglas Valenti is the CEO of QuinStreet Inc, a leader in the performance marketing products and technologies industry. With his extensive experience and deep understanding of the industry, Valenti has been instrumental in guiding the company towards its current success. His recent purchase of QuinStreet shares further demonstrates his confidence in the company's future.



About QuinStreet Inc

QuinStreet Inc is a pioneer in delivering online marketplace solutions to match searchers with brands in digital media. The company provides clients with performance marketing products and technologies. With its proprietary technologies, QuinStreet Inc helps businesses reach, engage, and acquire customers and enhance their brand presence in the digital world.



Insider Buying Analysis

Over the past year, Douglas Valenti has purchased a total of 10,000 shares and sold 150,000 shares. The recent acquisition of 2,500 shares is a positive signal as it indicates the insider's belief in the company's potential.



The insider transaction history for QuinStreet Inc shows a total of 7 insider buys over the past year, compared to 2 insider sells over the same timeframe. This trend suggests a positive sentiment among the insiders towards the company's stock.



Insider Buying: CEO Douglas Valenti Acquires 2,500 Shares of QuinStreet Inc

Relationship with Stock Price

On the day of the insider's recent buy, shares of QuinStreet Inc were trading at $9.43, giving the stock a market cap of $507.655 million. The insider's decision to buy at this price could indicate a belief that the stock is undervalued and has the potential for growth.



Story continues

Valuation

With a price of $9.43 and a GuruFocus Value of $15.90, QuinStreet Inc has a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 0.59. This suggests that the stock is significantly undervalued based on its GF Value.



Insider Buying: CEO Douglas Valenti Acquires 2,500 Shares of QuinStreet Inc

The GF Value is an intrinsic value estimate developed by GuruFocus. It is calculated based on historical multiples that the stock has traded at, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on the companys past returns and growth, and future estimates of business performance from Morningstar analysts.



In conclusion, the recent insider buying activity by CEO Douglas Valenti, coupled with the company's strong GF Value, suggests a positive outlook for QuinStreet Inc's stock. Investors should keep a close eye on this stock for potential investment opportunities.



This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


On September 11, 2023, KIRKLAND J BRYANT III, See Remarks of Vector Group Ltd, made a significant purchase of 10,000 shares of the company's stock. This move is noteworthy and deserves a closer look.



But first, who is KIRKLAND J BRYANT III? Bryant is a key insider at Vector Group Ltd, holding the position of See Remarks. His role within the company gives him unique insights into the company's operations and future prospects, making his stock transactions particularly interesting to investors and analysts.



Vector Group Ltd, the company in focus, operates in the tobacco and real estate industries. It is known for its diversified business model, with its tobacco business featuring popular cigarette brands, and its real estate business involved in both residential and commercial properties. The company's unique blend of businesses provides it with a robust revenue stream and potential for growth.



Now, let's delve into the insider trading activity. Over the past year, the insider has purchased a total of 10,000 shares and has not sold any shares. This suggests a strong belief in the company's prospects and a commitment to its success.



Insider Buying: KIRKLAND J BRYANT III Acquires 10,000 Shares of Vector Group Ltd





The insider transaction history for Vector Group Ltd shows a mixed trend. Over the past year, there have been 2 insider buys and 7 insider sells. However, the recent purchase by the insider is a positive signal, indicating a potential upside for the stock.



On the day of the insider's recent buy, shares of Vector Group Ltd were trading at $10.32, giving the company a market cap of $1.67 billion. The price-earnings ratio stands at 10.58, lower than both the industry median of 13.13 and the companys historical median. This suggests that the stock may be undervalued.



Insider Buying: KIRKLAND J BRYANT III Acquires 10,000 Shares of Vector Group Ltd





The GuruFocus Value for Vector Group Ltd is $12.50, resulting in a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 0.83. This indicates that the stock is modestly undervalued. The GF Value is a proprietary estimate of intrinsic value developed by GuruFocus, based on historical multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor, and future business performance estimates from Morningstar analysts.



In conclusion, the recent insider buying activity at Vector Group Ltd, coupled with the stock's undervalued status, suggests potential upside for investors. As always, investors should conduct their own due diligence before making investment decisions.



This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


On September 12, 2023, Saba Capital Management, L.P., a 10% owner of Blackrock Muniyield Pennsylvania Quality Fund (NYSE:MPA), purchased 24,973 shares of the company. This move is noteworthy as insider buying can often be a positive indicator for the company's future performance.



Saba Capital Management, L.P. is an investment firm that specializes in credit strategies, including credit relative value, capital structure arbitrage, and directional credit opportunities. The firm is known for its active management style and its focus on capital preservation. Over the past year, the insider has purchased a total of 215,732 shares and sold 0 shares.



Blackrock Muniyield Pennsylvania Quality Fund is a closed-end management investment company. The Fund's investment objective is to provide shareholders with as high a level of current income exempt from federal income taxes as is consistent with its investment policies and prudent investment management. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing at least 80% of its assets in municipal obligations exempt from federal income taxes (except that the interest may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax).



The insider transaction history for Blackrock Muniyield Pennsylvania Quality Fund shows a positive trend. Over the past year, there have been 14 insider buys and 0 insider sells. This suggests that insiders are confident about the company's future and see the stock as a good investment.



Insider Buying: Saba Capital Management, L.P. Acquires 24,973 Shares of Blackrock Muniyield Pennsylvania Quality Fund (MPA)

On the day of the insider's recent buy, shares of Blackrock Muniyield Pennsylvania Quality Fund were trading for $10.95 apiece, giving the stock a market cap of $143.69 million. This is significantly lower than the GuruFocus Value of $35.38, suggesting that the stock is significantly undervalued.



Insider Buying: Saba Capital Management, L.P. Acquires 24,973 Shares of Blackrock Muniyield Pennsylvania Quality Fund (MPA)

The GF Value is an intrinsic value estimate developed by GuruFocus. It is calculated based on historical multiples that the stock has traded at, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on the companys past returns and growth, and future estimates of business performance from Morningstar analysts. With a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 0.31, the stock appears to be significantly undervalued.



In conclusion, the recent insider buying by Saba Capital Management, L.P. could be a positive sign for Blackrock Muniyield Pennsylvania Quality Fund. The stock appears to be significantly undervalued, and the insider's purchase suggests confidence in the company's future. Investors should keep an eye on this stock and consider the insider's actions when making investment decisions.



This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


On September 11, 2023, James Sullivan, the Senior Vice President of Strategy & Compliance at BIO-key International Inc (NASDAQ:BKYI), purchased 9,000 shares of the company. This move is significant as it indicates the insider's confidence in the company's future prospects.



BIO-key International Inc is a leading provider of biometric identity and access management solutions. The company's innovative software and hardware solutions deliver strong, convenient security, and user-friendly functionality, enabling its customers to enhance productivity and reduce costs.



Over the past year, the insider has purchased a total of 17,618 shares and has not sold any shares. This trend suggests a strong belief in the company's potential for growth and profitability.



Insider Buying: SVP Strategy & Compliance James Sullivan Acquires 9,000 Shares of BIO-key International Inc

The insider transaction history for BIO-key International Inc shows a total of 5 insider buys over the past year, with no insider sells. This trend indicates a positive sentiment among the company's insiders, which could be a bullish signal for investors.



On the day of the insider's recent buy, shares of BIO-key International Inc were trading at $0.53, giving the company a market cap of $4.746 million.



With a price of $0.53 and a GuruFocus Value of $3.02, BIO-key International Inc has a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 0.18. This suggests that the stock is a possible value trap, and investors should think twice before investing.



Insider Buying: SVP Strategy & Compliance James Sullivan Acquires 9,000 Shares of BIO-key International Inc

The GF Value is an intrinsic value estimate developed by GuruFocus. It is calculated based on historical multiples (price-earnings ratio, price-sales ratio, price-book ratio, and price-to-free cash flow) that the stock has traded at, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on the companys past returns and growth, and future estimates of business performance from Morningstar analysts.



In conclusion, the insider's recent purchase of BIO-key International Inc shares could be a positive signal for the company's future prospects. However, given the stock's current price-to-GF-Value ratio, investors should exercise caution and conduct thorough research before making an investment decision.



This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


On September 11, 2023, Richard Barton, a director at Netflix Inc (NASDAQ:NFLX), sold 500 shares of the company. This move is part of a broader trend of insider selling at Netflix, which we will explore in more detail in this article.



Who is Richard Barton?

Richard Barton is a prominent figure in the tech industry, known for his role as a director at Netflix Inc. He has a long history of involvement in various tech companies, contributing to their growth and development. His decision to sell shares in Netflix is noteworthy and may signal important trends in the company's stock performance.



About Netflix Inc

Netflix Inc is a leading entertainment service provider, offering a wide range of TV series, documentaries, and feature films across a wide variety of genres and languages. The company has over 200 million paid memberships in more than 190 countries, making it a global leader in the streaming entertainment industry.



Insider Sell Analysis

Over the past year, Richard Barton has sold a total of 2,500 shares and has not purchased any shares. This recent sale of 500 shares is part of this larger trend.



Insider Sell: Director Richard Barton Sells 500 Shares of Netflix Inc





The insider transaction history for Netflix Inc shows that there have been no insider buys over the past year. Meanwhile, there have been 19 insider sells over the same timeframe. This trend of insider selling could be a signal to investors about the company's future stock performance.



Netflix Inc's Valuation

On the day of the insider's recent sell, shares of Netflix Inc were trading for $443.07 apiece. This gives the stock a market cap of $182.68 billion.



The price-earnings ratio is 43.90, which is higher than the industry median of 17.12 and lower than the companys historical median price-earnings ratio. This suggests that the stock is currently trading at a premium compared to its peers, but is still within its historical range.



Story continues

Insider Sell: Director Richard Barton Sells 500 Shares of Netflix Inc





With a price of $443.07 and a GuruFocus Value of $451.66, Netflix Inc has a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 0.98. This means the stock is fairly valued based on its GF Value. The GF Value is an intrinsic value estimate developed by GuruFocus that is calculated based on historical multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor, and future estimates of business performance from Morningstar analysts.



In conclusion, the insider's recent sell, along with the broader trend of insider selling at Netflix Inc, could be a signal to investors about the company's future stock performance. However, with a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 0.98, the stock appears to be fairly valued at the moment.



This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


On September 12, 2023, Michael Bayley, the President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE:RCL), sold 10,000 shares of the company. This move is part of a series of insider transactions that have been taking place over the past year.



Michael Bayley has been with Royal Caribbean Group for over 30 years, holding various executive positions before becoming President and CEO. Under his leadership, the company has grown into one of the world's largest cruise ship operators, offering a variety of brands that cater to different market segments.



Royal Caribbean Group is a global cruise holding company that is known for its popular brands such as Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. The company operates over 60 ships and is recognized for introducing industry-first features and services. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the company has shown resilience and is focused on a strong recovery.



Over the past year, the insider has sold a total of 40,624 shares and has not made any purchases. This recent sale of 10,000 shares is part of this trend.



Insider Sell: Royal Caribbean Group's President & CEO, Michael Bayley, Sells 10,000 Shares

The insider transaction history for Royal Caribbean Group shows a total of 1 insider buy and 12 insider sells over the past year. This could indicate that insiders believe the stock is currently overvalued, leading them to sell their shares.



On the day of the insider's recent sale, shares of Royal Caribbean Group were trading at $100.02, giving the company a market cap of $24.94 billion.



Insider Sell: Royal Caribbean Group's President & CEO, Michael Bayley, Sells 10,000 Shares

With a price of $100.02 and a GuruFocus Value of $162.21, Royal Caribbean Group has a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 0.62. This suggests that the stock is a possible value trap, and investors should think twice before investing.



The GF Value is an intrinsic value estimate developed by GuruFocus. It is calculated based on historical multiples that the stock has traded at, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on the companys past returns and growth, and future estimates of business performance from Morningstar analysts.



In conclusion, the recent insider sell by Michael Bayley, along with the overall insider transaction trend for Royal Caribbean Group, may suggest that the stock is currently overvalued. However, investors should also consider other factors such as the company's financial health, future growth prospects, and the overall market conditions before making investment decisions.



This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Jewellery Arabia and Scent Arabia, a major event being held in Bahrain in October, is now open to visitors for registration, says organiser Informa Markets.

The free exhibition will be held from November 14-18, 2023 at Exhibition World Bahrain, in Sakhir.

Mohammed Ebrahim, Informa Markets Exhibitions Director, said: We are delighted to announce that registration is now open for Jewellery Arabia and Scent Arabia. This years event will leave an impressive mark on all visitors, as we aim to host an unforgettable visual experience with enhanced services and an array of products from the most prestigious brands across the world.

The state-of the-art Jewellery Arabia exhibition spans over 54,000 sq m and will provide visitors access to a wide range of leading brands such as Asia Jewellers, Bahrain Jewellery Centre, and many others.

Bringing together 650 jewellery brands from 30 countries, the expo offers a huge range of finished jewellery, timepieces and much more from around the globe.

Spanning over 2,900 sqm, Scent Arabia showcases exclusive fragrances and attracts global, regional and local enthusiasts to explore a wide range of products including niche perfumes, home fragrances, incense and candles.

Al Hawaj, Faces, Junaid perfumes, Rasasi and many more luxury perfume brands will exhibit their latest products and limited-edition collections at Scent Arabia.  TradeArabia News Service
Long-established in the Travel & Leisure industry, International Game Technology PLC (NYSE:IGT) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. It has recently witnessed a surge of 11.13%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of 5.63%. However, fresh insights from the GuruFocus Score Rating hint at potential headwinds. Notably, its diminished rankings in financial strength, growth, and valuation suggest that the company might not live up to its historical performance. Join us as we dive deep into these pivotal metrics to unravel the evolving narrative of International Game Technology PLC.

International Game Technology PLC (IGT): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Understanding the GF Score

The GF Score is a stock performance ranking system developed by GuruFocus using five aspects of valuation, which has been found to be closely correlated to the long-term performances of stocks by backtesting from 2006 to 2021. The stocks with a higher GF Score generally generate higher returns than those with a lower GF Score. Therefore, when picking stocks, investors should invest in companies with high GF Scores. The GF Score ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 as the highest rank.

Based on the above method, GuruFocus assigned International Game Technology PLC the GF Score of 63 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential.

Company Snapshot: International Game Technology PLC

International Game Technology PLC is a gaming company that delivers entertaining and responsible gaming experiences for players across all channels. The company's operating segments include Global Lottery, Global Gaming, and Digital & Betting. It generates maximum revenue from the Global Lottery segment. Global Lottery segment provides lottery products and services to governmental organizations through operating contracts, facilities management contracts, lottery management agreements, and product sales contracts. Geographically, it derives a majority of revenue from the United States. The company has a market cap of $6.69 billion and sales of $4.27 billion, with an operating margin of 16.09%.

Story continues

International Game Technology PLC (IGT): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Financial Strength Analysis

International Game Technology PLC's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. The company has an interest coverage ratio of 2.35, which positions it worse than 67.62% of 559 companies in the Travel & Leisure industry. This ratio highlights potential challenges the company might face when handling its interest expenses on outstanding debt. It's worth noting that the esteemed investor Benjamin Graham typically favored companies with an interest coverage ratio of at least five.

The company's Altman Z-Score is just 1.03, which is below the distress zone of 1.81. This suggests that the company may face financial distress over the next few years. Additionally, the company's low cash-to-debt ratio at 0.08 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels. The company's debt-to-equity ratio is 4.25, which is worse than 91.78% of 669 companies in the Travel & Leisure industry. A high debt-to-equity ratio suggests over-reliance on borrowing and vulnerability to market fluctuations.

Conclusion

Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While International Game Technology PLC has a strong reputation in the industry, its financial health and growth potential raise concerns about its ability to maintain its historical performance. Investors should consider these factors when making investment decisions.

GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Saudi Arabia's investment promotion agency may open an office in the Greater Bay Area (GBA), expanding its presence in southern China to attract capital, technology and talent to support the kingdom's Saudi Vision 2030, a key official said.

Invest Saudi, a brand overseen by the Saudi Ministry of Investment (MISA), may open an office somewhere in the bay area - the region made up of Hong Kong, Macau and nine Guangdong provincial cities - to augment the promotional mission currently undertaken by its Beijing office, said Saleh Al-Khabti, MISA's deputy minister for investment transactions.

"To reach our aspirations ... we have to be in all major cities in China," Saleh said after a closed-door round table forum at the Asia Society, concurrent with the Belt and Road Summit in Hong Kong. "We have to be very careful in establishing our presence to make sure we remain connected to all of mainland China."

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

Vision 2030, first announced in 2016, aims to diversify the kingdom's oil-dependent economy by injecting 27 trillion riyals (US$7.2 trillion) through public spending and investments in dozens of programmes and infrastructure projects over the next decade. MISA is the one-stop ministry in charge of attracting investments, capital and technology to support that transformation.

Saleh Al-Khabti, Deputy Investment Transactions Minister at Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Investment (MISA), after a round table meeting at the Asia Society in Hong Kong's Admiralty on September 13, 2023. Photo: Jonathan Wong alt=Saleh Al-Khabti, Deputy Investment Transactions Minister at Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Investment (MISA), after a round table meeting at the Asia Society in Hong Kong's Admiralty on September 13, 2023. Photo: Jonathan Wong>

Story continues

Trade between China and Saudi Arabia soared 30 per cent last year to US$106 billion, following the mutual visits by the leaders of both countries. China is Saudi Arabia's top trading partner, while the kingdom is the biggest supplier of the oil needed to power the world's second-largest economy.

"We aspire to have larger cross-border investments," Saleh said. "Chinese companies have the know-how, and they have demonstrated that they can deliver mega projects over the past 20 years. We look forward to them participating in this big movement that is happening in Saudi Arabia."

The warming ties between Riyadh and Beijing have translated into real deals. Chinese companies signed agreements three months ago to invest US$10 billion in Saudi Arabia, led by a US$5.6 billion deal to build electric vehicles in the kingdom for export.

A US-China venture said it would build a plant in Saudi Arabia that can use bacteria to turn methane into animal feed at five times the annual capacity of its pilot in Chongqing, as scientists look to microbiology for solutions to ensure food security.

A month before that, Baosteel agreed to plough US$437.5 million into its venture with Saudi Aramco and the Saudi sovereign wealth fund Public Investment Fund to produce low-carbon emission thick steel plates.

The Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Abdulmohsen A. AlFadley (second left) speaking in a panel about food security at the 10th Arab-China Business Conference (ACBC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on June 11, 2023. Photo: Lo Kinling. alt=The Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Abdulmohsen A. AlFadley (second left) speaking in a panel about food security at the 10th Arab-China Business Conference (ACBC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on June 11, 2023. Photo: Lo Kinling.>

The growth "should continue" because "there's a great role [in the Saudi Vision 2030] for Chinese companies and investors to play," Saleh said. "The Covid pandemic slowed us down, but right now we are firing on all cylinders."

The Saudi economy needs investments in all fronts across multiple industries from artificial intelligence to food security and telecommunications backbone. One noteworthy opportunity is in capital formation and fundraising, where Saudi authorities "do not see enough participation by Chinese banks," even after Bank of China opened its first Riyadh branch two weeks ago, he said.

The PIF will contribute 3 trillion riyal towards the government's spending over the next decade. To help raise capital for the transformation, agreements had been signed between the stock market operators of Hong Kong, Shanghai and the Saudi Tadawul in recent months to collaborate in fundraising and stock listings.

Hong Kong's banks, including the locally incorporated units of Chinese financial institutions, are especially well placed to help Saudi companies "understand the [funding] opportunities in front of us," said Saleh, recalling his 15-year tenure at Aramco when he worked with BOC International and China International Capital Corporation.

Hong Kong's banks and "business community should continue to play that role of being the translator, helping Saudi businesses find opportunities in China," he said. "Hong Kong remains a beacon of leadership for the business community. Although many [economic power houses] have risen in different provinces, Hong Kong remains the location with a 'special something' that understands the Middle East region."

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2023 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2023. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
2024 Delivery of at Least 450 MWh of Lithium-Ion Cells, Modules and Racks Growing to 2.2 GWh by Early 2026; Next-Generation Turnkey Solutions for Commercial & Industrial, Utility-Scale Storage Also Announced

COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho, September 14, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--KORE Power, Inc. (KORE) will deliver at least 450 MWh  and up to 600 MWh  of lithium-ion battery cells, modules and racks to Nidec North America in 2024, the first year of the annual supply agreement. This commitment grows up to 2.2 GWh of supply in 2026, according to the multi-year deal announced Thursday.

Late last year, KORE announced Nidec was part of its Series A Funding Round. In addition to that agreement, todays announcement secures KORE as a supplier of lithium-ion cells, modules and racks for Nidec. Nidec is a top three global leader in energy storage and power conversion systems.

The collaboration between the companies also includes developing turnkey energy storage systems for utility-scale and commercial/industrial projects, highlighting KOREs DC Blocks and Nidecs Power Conversion Systems (PCS).

Nidecs next generation PCS product line-up will also be utilized by KORE for their own integrated solutions. Nidecs PCS are world class for power density, efficiency, and durability and are able to seamlessly integrate into the most challenging electricity grids.

In the next three years, KORE has agreed to deliver 450 MWh to 2.2 GWh of lithium-ion battery cells, modules, and racks. In parallel, Nidec will supply 225 MVA to 1,100 MVA of power conversion systems to capture the substantial growth in the energy storage market in North America.

"This agreement solidifies the strategic partnership between KORE and Nidec," said Lindsay Gorrill, CEO and Founder of KORE Power. "Combined, our teams bring a century of advancing power technologies. Together we will drive energy storage opportunities forward for industrial, commercial and utility-scale customers."

Story continues

"Leveraging Nidec's expertise in power conversion and energy storage solutions, this partnership enables us to address the growing demand for energy storage projects. Our customers are seeking to maximize return on their deployment of intermittent energy sources," said Dominique Llonch, President of Nidec Industrial Solutions. "With our strength and reach in industrial solutions, and KORE's supply of proven lithium-ion technology, we will deliver new solutions to meet that demand."

For more information regarding this announcement, please see contact list below.

For information regarding KORE: www.korepower.com

For information regarding Nidec: https://www.nidec.com/

Cautionary Statement

Certain statements contained herein constitute forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements about the plans, objectives, and expectations. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information, and such information involves various risks and uncertainties. KORE Power, Inc. believes the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct, and such forward-looking statements in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. Forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release, and  KORE Power disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities legislation.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914471798/en/

Contacts

David Jakubiak

djakubiak@aileroninc.com

(708) 299-7733

Aleysha Newton

anewton@korepower.com

(208) 758-9392

Carl Holley

Carl.Holley@nidec-industrial.com

(832) 871-0244
Employers can provide valuable assistance with employee student loan repayments.

More than 43 million people have federal student loan debt. And this month, many borrowers resume making student loan payments  with interest  after an unprecedented multiyear pause. The U.S. Department of Education is offering programs, including new income-driven repayment options like the SAVE repayment plan, to help lower payment amounts. And now, the IRS is reminding borrowers (and employers) about a lesser-known, tax-free way to get help with student loan repayment.

"The IRS wants to remind both employers and employees about this special feature that can help with student loans," IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel said in a statement urging employees and employers not to overlook a potentially beneficial option.

Tax-free student loan repayment assistance

Employer educational assistance programs, which arent new, can assist employees in paying off their student loans  at least for a while.

The option to use educational assistance is available, under current law, for payments made after March 27, 2020.

If nothing changes legislatively, the ability to use the programs to help with student loan repayment will continue for the next two years or so, until Dec. 31, 2025.

The good tax news is that in most cases, the assistance provided to employees by employers that meets specific requirements isnt subject to tax. Heres what else you need to know about how educational assistance programs work.

Employer educational assistance vs. tuition reimbursement

Employer educational assistance programs allow employers to provide tax-free financial assistance to employees for certain education expenses. Historically, these programs have been used to help employees pay for books, equipment, supplies, fees, tuition, and other education expenses.

However, due mainly to the pandemic, employer educational assistance can now be used to pay principal and interest on an employee's qualified education loans. According to the IRS, payments made directly to the lender and those made to the employee qualify.

Story continues

This employer-sponsored student loan repayment assistance is tax-free because the IRS doesnt consider the assistance provided by the employer to be taxable income for the employee. However, the maximum annual exclusion for educational assistance an employer provides, per employee, is $5,250.

In a statement provided on the IRS website, Virginia Sen. Mark Warner encouraged employers to take full advantage of these programs as student loan payments resume for millions across the country,

"This benefit not only provides a pathway towards student debt relief for borrowers but also gives employers the ability to recruit and retain high-quality talent, Warner said.

How does tuition reimbursement work? Its important to note that employer educational assistance and tuition reimbursement are different. Educational assistance programs can cover a broader range of expenses, including tuition, fees, books, supplies, and student loan repayments. Tuition reimbursement programs, on the other hand, typically cover only tuition and related expenses for courses taken while employed. Check with your employer if youre unsure about education-related benefits they do or dont offer.

There are also limitations and requirements for tax-free employer assistance in repaying student loans that you need to consider.

For example, the IRS says amounts above the $5,250 per employee limit could be subject to tax as wages. (In that case, your employer should include in your wages ( Form W-2 , box 1) the amount that you must include in income.)

Additionally, the educational assistance must be given under a formal, written educational assistance program sponsored by the employer.

The assistance provided by the employer cannot favor highly compensated employees.

Bottom line

However, if you are looking for a tax-free way to help repay your student loan, its worth checking to see if your employer offers a formal educational assistance program.

And if youre an employer that doesnt have such a plan, the IRS describes it as a worthwhile fringe benefit that can help your business attract and retain workers. The agency also has a free webinar for interested employers, including small businesses, to learn more about offering qualified educational assistance programs.
Key Insights

The projected fair value for Vitura Health is AU$0.25 based on Dividend Discount Model

With AU$0.30 share price, Vitura Health appears to be trading close to its estimated fair value

Vitura Health's peers are currently trading at a discount of 20% on average

How far off is Vitura Health Limited (ASX:VIT) from its intrinsic value? Using the most recent financial data, we'll take a look at whether the stock is fairly priced by taking the forecast future cash flows of the company and discounting them back to today's value. The Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model is the tool we will apply to do this. There's really not all that much to it, even though it might appear quite complex.

Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model.

Check out our latest analysis for Vitura Health

The Model

As Vitura Health operates in the pharmaceuticals sector, we need to calculate the intrinsic value slightly differently. In this approach dividends per share (DPS) are used, as free cash flow is difficult to estimate and often not reported by analysts. Unless a company pays out the majority of its FCF as a dividend, this method will typically underestimate the value of the stock. We use the Gordon Growth Model, which assumes dividend will grow into perpetuity at a rate that can be sustained. The dividend is expected to grow at an annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.0%. We then discount this figure to today's value at a cost of equity of 6.0%. Compared to the current share price of AU$0.3, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out.

Value Per Share = Expected Dividend Per Share / (Discount Rate - Perpetual Growth Rate)

Story continues

= AU$0.01 / (6.0%  2.0%)

= AU$0.3

dcf

The 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. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Vitura Health 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 6.0%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. 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 Vitura Health

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry.

Currently debt free.

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Weakness

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Pharmaceuticals market.

Current share price is above our estimate of fair value.

Opportunity

Annual revenue is forecast to grow faster than the Australian market.

Threat

No apparent threats visible for VIT.

Moving On:

Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. For Vitura Health, we've put together three fundamental elements you should assess:

Risks: For example, we've discovered 3 warning signs for Vitura Health (1 doesn't sit too well with us!) that you should be aware of before investing here. Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for VIT's future outlook? Check out our management and board analysis with insights on CEO compensation and governance factors. Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Australian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
LONDON, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Markel, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), announced it has hired an in-country leader and will open three new offices in Australia in September 2023. These offices, in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, will be led by Rory Morison, who has been appointed as managing director of Markel's Australia operation.

Rory Morison, Managing Director of Markel Australia

Markel Australia will focus on providing underwriting solutions to businesses that traditionally purchase insurance in the domestic Australian market. This approach will complement existing support through Markel's significant London capacity, as well as industry and product specialists from across its wholesale international business in London and Asia.

Demand is growing across Australia for specialty commercial insurance, particularly in casualty and financial lines, driven in part by the growth of the digital economy alongside traditional industries. Markel intends to introduce new products to the local market, including its leading Fintech and CommTech insurance solutions, designed to protect fast-growing technology businesses from a range of risks such as professional indemnity, general liability, directors and officers (D&O) liability, and cyber. Markel will also continue to support Australian brokers and commercial customers with its broad range of specialist insurance products.

Morison joins Markel from AXA XL where he has worked since 2002, most recently as head of long tail lines. He is a proven local leader in casualty and financial lines  a key initial focus area for Markel in Australia  and he combines this with a deep understanding of Lloyd's, having spent eight years in the London Market. This will ensure even closer connectivity with the existing underwriting support and capacity from London.

By establishing new offices, assembling an experienced leadership team under Morison, and ramping up its investment in local underwriting talent, Markel hopes to build on its long-standing commitment to the Australian market. A core foundation of Markel's international growth strategy is the commitment to strong local underwriting presence and capabilities. Having an appropriate on-the-ground presence means that underwriters can respond more quickly and adapt products to onshore clients' needs and the nuances of a particular risk environment. This is especially important given the speed at which many businesses operate today.

Story continues

Christian Stobbs, managing director, Asia Pacific, at Markel, said: "Australia is the world's tenth largest insurance market, and it's growing. Specialist commercial insurance forms a significant portion of this premium. We know that local underwriters understand local conditions and are uniquely focused on the needs of local clients. By establishing a strong underwriting presence in Australia under Rory's leadership, we are well-positioned to serve our clients as part of the domestic market, raise our game, and further Markel's international vision."

Andrew McMellin, managing director of wholesale at Markel, added: "Markel has a solid track record of building businesses in international markets, having successfully established onshore operations in Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia over the past decade. In each case, we have committed to hiring high-quality talent and empowering them with underwriting and claims authority, underpinned by Markel's highly collaborative and entrepreneurial culture."

Rory Morison, managing director of Australia at Markel, said: "I am looking forward to leading the Markel team in Australia and expanding our presence in the local market. We see significant opportunity for Markel within Australia as businesses adjust to the changing landscape, including the rise of the digital economy, increased scrutiny on director liability, and a spate of high-profile cyber breaches. Markel's dedication to a strong local presence and on-the-ground capabilities will ensure that we are best placed to support our new and existing Australian brokers and customers."

About Markel

We are Markel, a leading global specialty insurer with a truly people-first approach. As the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), we operate the Markel Specialty, Markel International, and Markel Global Reinsurance divisions, as well as State National, our portfolio protection and program services operations, and Nephila, our insurance-linked securities operations. Our broad array of capabilities and expertise allow us to create intelligent solutions for the most complex risk management needs. However, it is our people  and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers and clients  that differentiates us worldwide.

Markel logo

Cision

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/markel-strengthens-strategic-investment-in-australia-with-local-presence-and-leadership-301926968.html

SOURCE Markel
With a looming September 30 deadline to avert a government shutdown, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is boxed in by his own conference, and Republican hardliners are making it clear that the newly ordered impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden isnt going to make them any more cooperative when it comes to funding federal agencies.

The latest sign the House is sinking into chaos: McCarthy and House Republican leaders were forced Wednesday to postpone consideration of their version of the $826 billion annual defense appropriations bill because they didnt have the support to get it through a procedural vote. Republican hardliners were reportedly demanding a plan to cut spending in areas beyond defense.

Its become clear that McCarthys move to placate his right flank by launching an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden isnt working, Politico noted. He still lacks the votes to pass a stopgap bill to keep the government open past Sept. 30. And some conservatives are still threatening to force a vote stripping him of the speakership.

Even if House Republicans were all on the same page, their defense bill would not be able to pass the Senate anyway and the White House had also threatened to veto it because it is laden with culture war provisions targeting the Pentagons abortion travel policy, transgender care and diversity initiatives.

While the House Freedom Caucus pushes for McCarthy to demand steeper spending cuts in negotiations with Biden and the Senate, the speaker reportedly had told his members that approving their own domestic security appropriation package, with emergency disaster relief funding attached, would strengthen his hand in upcoming spending talks.

As of now, though, McCarthy has little leverage  and no clear path forward. The speaker reportedly asked his members if they cant pass their own appropriations bills or a stopgap measure to fund the government and wont do an omnibus package that rolls up annual spending bills, what can they do? And he has acknowledged that the spending fight pits three against one: Senate Democrats, Senate Republicans and the White House against his House GOP conference.

Story continues

McCarthy cant do a thing, cant do anything. Hes completely paralyzed by his conference, Jake Sherman of Punchbowl News told MSNBC Wednesday. And by the way, McCarthy has no idea how hes going to get out of this because hes hamstrung by the right wing of his conference which basically wants him out and doesnt want him to do anything.

Whats next: The defense funding bill appears to be on hold. Roll Call reports that House Republicans are discussing a three- or four-week funding bill to avert a potential shutdown after September 30 and that their plan would push decisions on military and economic aid for Ukraine as well as disaster relief into the regular fiscal 2024 spending bills.

For now, though, there are few if any signs that McCarthy and his members will be able to pull together behind any strategy that might fund the government and avoid a shutdown. As Politicos Sarah Ferris, Jordain Carney and Olivia Beavers point out, the reality is that his conservative members have enough votes to derail every one of McCarthys spending priorities  the defense spending bill on Wednesday, virtually all of the other 10 bills still on the docket and any kind of short-term funding bill.

McCarthys other short-term option would be to rely on Democrats to prevent a shutdown. That could cost him his job, though it remains unclear which other Republican could get enough votes to succeed him.

Like what you're reading? Sign up for our free newsletter.
MIAMI, September 14, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The MolinaCares Accord ("MolinaCares"), in collaboration with Molina Healthcare of Florida ("Molina"), has launched its MolinaCares for a Healthy Florida initiative with an initial commitment of $700,000 to improve Floridians overall health and well-being. This initiative funds the work of area community-based organizations supporting underserved populations.

"The MolinaCares for a Healthy Florida initiative is connecting Floridians with community partners that are focused on building healthy and resilient communities," said Mike Jones, plan president of Molina Healthcare of Florida. "Supporting the work of these grassroots organizations builds upon our ongoing commitment to increase access to care for all Floridians."

MolinaCares for a Healthy Florida will support community-based nonprofits addressing root causes of poverty and the resulting inequities. These organizations support communities by improving access to food, housing, employment, health care, transportation, parenting resources, and other basic needs.

Notably, MolinaCares recently granted $200,000 to bring Family Scholar House to Florida. Family Scholar House has over 25 years of experience serving individuals and families in need of support services. The MolinaCares grant will provide single-parent families access to resources to improve their self-sufficiency and economic well-being.

"We look forward to expanding our work with Molina to end the cycle of poverty in Florida and empower families and youth to succeed in education and in their future careers," said Cathe Dykstra, president and CEO of Family Scholar House. "Thanks to MolinaCares, we will be able to provide safe housing and support to Florida families and youth so they can work towards a better future."

In addition to Family Scholar House, MolinaCares for a Healthy Florida supports the following organizations and projects throughout the state:

Story continues

MolinaCares recently donated $250,000 to the Florida Disaster Fund, the states official fund which supports response and recovery activities in times of emergency or disaster, in the aftermath of Hurricane Idalia. Last year, MolinaCares donated $300,000 to the Florida Disaster Fund, Farm Share, Harry Chapin Food Bank, and Latino Leadership in response to Hurricane Ians devastating impact on Florida communities.

Learn more about how The MolinaCares Accord is supporting community-based organizations in Florida here.

About The MolinaCares Accord

Established by Molina Healthcare, Inc., The MolinaCares Accord oversees a community investment platform created to improve the health and well-being of disadvantaged populations by funding meaningful, measurable, and innovative programs and solutions that improve health, life, and living in local communities. The MolinaCares Accord funds such measures through The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) established in 2020 by Molina Healthcare, Inc.

About Molina Healthcare of Florida

Molina Healthcare of Florida has been providing government-funded, quality health care since 2008. The Company serves members through Medicaid, Medicare, and Health Insurance Marketplace programs throughout Florida. Molina Healthcare served approximately 5.2 million members as of June 30, 2023, located across 19 states. For more information about Molina Healthcare, please visit MolinaHealthcare.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914113942/en/

Contacts

Media Contact: Ben Jackey, Ben.Jackey@molinahealthcare.com, (502) 377-9484
The UAE ranks amongst the top world leaders in solar energy use, driven largely by the pioneering vision of the UAE governments ambitious leadership, according to a recent report published by the Energy Institute Statistical Review of World Energy.

With three of the planets largest solar sites, the UAE is the 6th highest per capita consumer of solar energy in the world, behind only Australia, The Netherlands, Japan, Israel and Chile, reported WAM news agency quoting the report.

The country has developed solar mega projects, including Shams, Noor Abu Dhabi and Al Dhafra in Abu Dhabi, as well as the largest single-site project in the world at Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai.

Masdar, the countrys leading renewable energy company, has played a key role in these projects, collaborating with key government and private sector partners to further increase solar capacity.

The company continues to support the UAE in becoming a clean energy global powerhouse, demonstrating and accelerating the UAE leaderships pioneering vision and commitment to a just and orderly clean energy transition.

The nations ambitions are clear  to be the world leader in pioneering all clean energy, including solar, for a cleaner, greener future.

As the UAE continues to gear up to host COP28 at Expo City Dubai from November 30 to December 12, it is clear that the UAE continues to chart a path toward net-zero.

COP28 will convene over 70,000 participants, including heads of state, government officials, international industry leaders, private sector representatives, academics, experts, youth, and non-state actors, for the worlds leading climate conference.
Designed and painted by acclaimed Philadelphia mural artist, Glossblack

TAMPA, FL / ACCESSWIRE / September 14, 2023 / The Motor Enclave (TME) unveiled Tampa Bay's newest mural today, on the I-75 side of its 37,000 square foot Event Center just North of the I-4 interchange. The mural was designed and executed by prominent Philadelphia-based muralist Glossblack. Branded as the "Motomural," the nearly 5,000 square foot mural is destined to become a landmark at this main interchange to Tampa and Orlando that sees over 142,000 vehicles a day.

The Motor Enclave 'Motomural'

The Motor Enclave founder, Brad Oleshansky, collaborated with Glossblack closely on the project, keeping it under wraps until painting began on September 1st. The mural features a combination of motorsports-themed iconography, vintage roadside references and a few related to Tampa history and culture.

"The goal of this mural is to pay homage to many things at once; The Motor Enclave branding, classic Americana, motorsports, patina & graffiti elements, and of course a nod to Tampa. It's a 'favorite things' mural for TME that speaks to how unique they are," said Jimmy McMenamin of Glossblack. "Much of my artwork revolves around balancing color while creating building blocks that tell a larger story. I love all things typography, vintage signage, neon lettering, dynamic shadow/lighting, and retro Americana. For that reason, working with TME was the perfect fit."

"I am thrilled to have this piece of the project come to fruition. It's been a fun process working with Glossblack to make this project come to life," said Oleshansky. "It's been just as fun keeping the artwork a surprise for my team here at TME. But the wait is finally over and what better way to show off our soon-to-open Event Center."

The Motomural is now visible for all to see on the West side of I-75 just North of the I-4 interchange.

About Glossblack

Jimmy McMenamin is an artist, muralist & graffiti writer from the Greater Philadelphia area. In 2008, he created Glossblack, LLC as a way to offer his artistic skills to business owners, homeowners, corporations, etc. Glossblack's client list is extensive, having provided wall art for the likes of Disney, Google, Comcast, Red Bull, Under Armour, 76ers, Eagles, Gap, Budweiser, & Dunkin. Today, he can be found in his South Jersey studio painting, screen printing, designing, and planning for upcoming mural work.

Story continues

About The Motor Enclave

The Motor Enclave is the premier developer of experiential motorsports venues in North America. Our 200-acre development in Tampa, Florida, includes a 1.6-mile Hermann Tilke-designed driving circuit, 2-acre Vehicle Dynamics Pad, 100-acre Off-Road experience, 37,000-square-foot Event Center and the largest Private Garage community in the world with over 300 private luxury garages. Every adrenaline-filled detail has been designed and engineered around delivering memorable experiences. Complete details can be found at www.themotorenclave.com.

Contact Information:

Hank Johnson

Marketing Manager

hank@themotorenclave.com

8649181802

Brad Oleshansky

CEO

brad@themotorenclave.com

Chas Ostezan

CRO

chas@themotorenclave.com

248-878-3651

SOURCE: The Motor Enclave

.





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/783485/the-motor-enclave-motomural-set-to-become-iconic-tampa-landmark




An Analysis of Motorola Solutions Inc's Dividend History, Yield, and Growth

Motorola Solutions Inc (NYSE:MSI) recently announced a dividend of $0.88 per share, payable on October 13, 2023, with the ex-dividend date set for September 14, 2023. As investors anticipate this forthcoming payment, the spotlight also shines on the company's dividend history, yield, and growth rates. Leveraging the data from GuruFocus, we delve into Motorola Solutions Inc's dividend performance and evaluate its sustainability.

Understanding Motorola Solutions Inc

Motorola Solutions is a leading provider of communications and analytics, primarily serving public safety departments as well as schools, hospitals, and businesses. The majority of the firm's revenue is derived from sales of land mobile radios and radio network infrastructure, but the firm also sells surveillance equipment and dispatch software. Most of Motorola's revenue comes from government agencies, while about 25% comes from schools and private businesses. Motorola has customers in over 100 countries and in every state in the United States.

Motorola Solutions Inc (MSI): A Deep Dive into its Dividend Performance

A Glimpse at Motorola Solutions Inc's Dividend History

Motorola Solutions Inc has maintained a regular dividend payment record since 2011, with dividends currently distributed on a quarterly basis. Motorola Solutions Inc has increased its dividend each year since 2011, earning it the status of a dividend achiever, a title bestowed upon companies that have increased their dividend each year for at least the past 12 years.

Motorola Solutions Inc (MSI): A Deep Dive into its Dividend Performance

Breaking Down Motorola Solutions Inc's Dividend Yield and Growth

As of today, Motorola Solutions Inc currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 1.22% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 1.25%, suggesting an expectation of increased dividend payments over the next 12 months.

Story continues

Over the past three years, Motorola Solutions Inc's annual dividend growth rate was 11.40%. This rate decreased to 11.00% per year on a five-year horizon. However, over the past decade, Motorola Solutions Inc's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at an impressive 12.70%.

Based on Motorola Solutions Inc's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Motorola Solutions Inc stock as of today is approximately 2.06%.

Motorola Solutions Inc (MSI): A Deep Dive into its Dividend Performance

The Sustainability Question: Payout Ratio and Profitability

The dividend payout ratio provides insights into the portion of earnings the company distributes as dividends. A lower ratio suggests that the company retains a significant part of its earnings, thereby ensuring the availability of funds for future growth and unexpected downturns. As of June 30, 2023, Motorola Solutions Inc's dividend payout ratio is 0.39.

Motorola Solutions Inc's profitability rank is 8 out of 10 as of June 30, 2023, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported net profit in 9 years out of the past 10 years.

Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook

Motorola Solutions Inc's growth rank of 8 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors. Motorola Solutions Inc's revenue has increased by approximately 5.70% per year on average, a rate that outperforms approximately 54.39% of global competitors. The company's 3-year EPS growth rate shows its capability to grow its earnings, a critical component for sustaining dividends in the long run. During the past three years, Motorola Solutions Inc's earnings increased by approximately 17.00% per year on average, a rate that outperforms approximately 55.79% of global competitors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Motorola Solutions Inc's consistent dividend payments, impressive dividend growth rate, reasonable payout ratio, good profitability, and strong growth metrics make it an attractive prospect for dividend-focused investors. However, as with any investment, it's crucial to conduct thorough research and consider the company's financial health and market position before making a decision.

GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Long-established in the Travel & Leisure industry, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NYSE:NCLH) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. It has recently witnessed a surge of 4.68%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of -11.4%. However, fresh insights from the GuruFocus Score Rating hint at potential headwinds. Notably, its diminished rankings in financial strength, growth, and valuation suggest that the company might not live up to its historical performance. Join us as we dive deep into these pivotal metrics to unravel the evolving narrative of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

Is Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NCLH) Set to Underperform? Analyzing the Factors Limiting Growth

Understanding the GF Score

The GF Score is a stock performance ranking system developed by GuruFocus using five aspects of valuation, which has been found to be closely correlated to the long-term performances of stocks by backtesting from 2006 to 2021. The stocks with a higher GF Score generally generate higher returns than those with a lower GF Score. Therefore, when picking stocks, investors should invest in companies with high GF Scores. The GF Score ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 as the highest rank.

Based on the above method, GuruFocus assigned Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd the GF Score of 57 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential.

Company Snapshot: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd

Norwegian Cruise Line is the world's third-largest cruise company by berths, operating 30 ships across three brands (Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas), offering both freestyle and luxury cruising. The company had redeployed its entire fleet as of May 2022. With seven passenger vessels on order among its brands through 2028, Norwegian is increasing capacity faster than its peers, expanding its brand globally. Norwegian sails to around 700 global destinations.

Story continues

Is Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NCLH) Set to Underperform? Analyzing the Factors Limiting Growth

Financial Strength Breakdown

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. The company's interest coverage ratio of 0, positions it worse than 0% of 559 companies in the Travel & Leisure industry. This ratio highlights potential challenges the company might face when handling its interest expenses on outstanding debt.

The company's Altman Z-Scoreis just -0.22, which is below the distress zone of 1.81. This suggests that the company may face financial distress over the next few years. Additionally, the company's low cash-to-debt ratio at 0.07 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels.

The company's debt-to-equity ratio is 903.85, which is worse than 100% of 669 companies in the Travel & Leisure industry. A high debt-to-equity ratio suggests over-reliance on borrowing and vulnerability to market fluctuations. Additionally, the company's debt-to-Ebitda ratio is 21.12, which is above Joel Tillinghast's warning level of 4 and is worse than 92.28% of 583 companies in the Travel & Leisure industry.

Growth Prospects

A lack of significant growth is another area where Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. The company's revenue has declined by -27.2 per year over the past three years, which underperforms worse than 86.18% of 767 companies in the Travel & Leisure industry. Stagnating revenues may pose concerns in a fast-evolving market.

Lastly, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd predictability rank is just one star out of five, adding to investor uncertainty regarding revenue and earnings consistency.

Is Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NCLH) Set to Underperform? Analyzing the Factors Limiting Growth

Conclusion

Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd has a strong brand and market presence, its financial health and growth prospects raise concerns about its ability to outperform in the future. Investors should consider these factors when making investment decisions.

GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Value-focused investors are always on the hunt for stocks that are priced below their intrinsic value. One such stock that merits attention is Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NYSE:NCLH). The stock, which is currently priced at 17.12, recorded a gain of 4.68% in a day and a 3-month decrease of 11.4%. The stock's fair valuation is $60.45, as indicated by its GF Value.

Understanding the GF Value

The GF Value represents the current intrinsic value of a stock derived from our exclusive method. The GF Value Line on our summary page gives an overview of the fair value that the stock should be traded at. It is calculated based on three factors: historical multiples (PE Ratio, PS Ratio, PB Ratio and Price-to-Free-Cash-Flow) that the stock has traded at, GuruFocus adjustment factor based on the company's past returns and growth, and future estimates of the business performance.

We believe the GF Value Line is the fair value that the stock should be traded at. The stock price will most likely fluctuate around the GF Value Line. If the stock price is significantly above the GF Value Line, it is overvalued and its future return is likely to be poor. On the other hand, if it is significantly below the GF Value Line, its future return will likely be higher.

Is Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) Too Good to Be True? A Comprehensive Analysis of a Potential Value Trap

Unpacking the Risks of Investing in Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings

However, investors need to consider a more in-depth analysis before making an investment decision. Despite its seemingly attractive valuation, certain risk factors associated with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NYSE:NCLH) should not be ignored. These risks are primarily reflected through its low Altman Z-score of -0.22, and the company's revenues and earnings have been on a downward trend over the past five years, which raises a crucial question: Is Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings a hidden gem or a value trap?

Story continues

These indicators suggest that Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, despite its apparent undervaluation, might be a potential value trap. This complexity underlines the importance of thorough due diligence in investment decision-making.

Understanding the Altman Z-Score

Before delving into the details, let's understand what the Altman Z-score entails. Invented by New York University Professor Edward I. Altman in 1968, the Z-Score is a financial model that predicts the probability of a company entering bankruptcy within a two-year time frame. The Altman Z-Score combines five different financial ratios, each weighted to create a final score. A score below 1.8 suggests a high likelihood of financial distress, while a score above 3 indicates a low risk.

Company Snapshot: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NYSE:NCLH) is the world's third-largest cruise company by berths, operating 30 ships across three brands (Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas), offering both freestyle and luxury cruising. The company had redeployed its entire fleet as of May 2022. With seven passenger vessels on order among its brands through 2028, Norwegian is increasing capacity faster than its peers, expanding its brand globally. Norwegian sails to around 700 global destinations.

Is Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) Too Good to Be True? A Comprehensive Analysis of a Potential Value Trap

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings's Low Altman Z-Score: A Breakdown of Key Drivers

A dissection of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings's Altman Z-score reveals Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings's financial health may be weak, suggesting possible financial distress:

The Retained Earnings to Total Assets ratio provides insights into a company's capability to reinvest its profits or manage debt. Evaluating Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings's historical data, 2021: -0.13; 2022: -0.33; 2023: -0.38, we observe a declining trend in this ratio. This downward movement indicates Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings's diminishing ability to reinvest in its business or effectively manage its debt. Consequently, it exerts a negative impact on its Z-Score.

The Bearish Signs: Declining Revenues and Earnings

One of the telltale indicators of a company's potential trouble is a sustained decline in revenues. In the case of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, both the revenue per share (evident from the last five years' TTM data: 2019: 28.67; 2020: 21.68; 2021: 0.08; 2022: 5.74; 2023: 16.54; ) and the 5-year revenue growth rate (-32%) have been on a consistent downward trajectory. This pattern may point to underlying challenges such as diminishing demand for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings's products, or escalating competition in its market sector. Either scenario can pose serious risks to the company's future performance, warranting a thorough analysis by investors.

Is Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) Too Good to Be True? A Comprehensive Analysis of a Potential Value Trap

The Red Flag: Sluggish Earnings Growth

Despite its low price-to-fair-value ratio, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings's falling revenues and earnings cast a long shadow over its investment attractiveness. A low price relative to intrinsic value can indeed suggest an investment opportunity, but only if the company's fundamentals are sound or improving. In Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings's case, the declining revenues, EBITDA, and earnings growth suggest that the company's issues may be more than just cyclical fluctuations.

Without a clear turnaround strategy, there's a risk that the company's performance could continue to deteriorate, leading to further price declines. In such a scenario, the low price-to-GF-Value ratio may be more indicative of a value trap than a value opportunity.

Conclusion: Navigating the Thin Line Between Value and Trap

Given the bearish signs of declining revenues and earnings, coupled with a low Altman Z-score, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings appears to be a potential value trap. While the stock's low price relative to its intrinsic value may seem attractive, the underlying risks associated with the company's financial health and performance cannot be ignored. Therefore, it's crucial for investors to conduct a thorough due diligence before making an investment decision.

GuruFocus Premium members can find stocks with high Altman Z-Score using the following Screener: Walter Schloss Screen . Investors can find stocks with good revenue and earnings growth using GuruFocus' Peter Lynch Growth with Low Valuation Screener.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Bon Appetit has crowned the latest class of its best new restaurants of the year.

The 24 restaurants receiving the food magazine's annual honor hail from around the country: big, coastal cities like New York City or Los Angeles, as well as smaller, more middle-America cities like Detroit and Oklahoma City.

"The restaurant world is packed with creativity right now, and these 24 spots represent the very best of dining," Bon Appetit restaurant editor Elazar Sontag wrote in the introduction, noting that this year's list is longer and includes more restaurants than years past.

Here are the restaurants and the cities that made the cut this year.

Dunkin: Ice Spice latte hits Dunkin' menus in munchkin-fueled collab with Ben Affleck

Asheville, North Carolina

Neng Jr.'s: A Filipinx restaurant

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Adobo ouster, duck adobo, pork belly pulled noodles, keso ice cream and adobo martini.

Atlanta, Georgia

Fishmonger: Fish market and raw bar

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Daily crudo, peel-and-eat-shrimp, Caesar salad with blackened grouper and Key lime pie.

Austin, Texas

Este: Seafood restaurant

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Tuna tiradito, flautas de pescado, camarones "el ricas," trout a la pulla and pastel de elote.

Bainbridge Island, Washington

Seabird: Island-inspired seafood and vegetables

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Seaweed focaccia, albacore crudo, wood-fired potatoes and leeks, sugar-kelp-wrapped king salmon and the Seabird Martini.

Brooklyn, New York City

Ensenada: Contemporary Latin American coastal cuisine

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Taco de pescado, toasata de viera, campechano aguachile (verde or amarillo) and pescado del dia "al pastor."

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Moeca: Neighborhood seafood restaurant

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Cape Cod scallops, semolina gnocci, smoked scallop taramasclata and chickpea pancake.

Chicago, Illinois

Indienne: Progressive Indian fine dining

Story continues

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: An a la carte menu or two six-course seasonal tasting menus, one with meat and one without.

Detroit, Michigan

Ladder 4 Wine Bar: Wine bar and bottle shop

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Burnt leeks, sweet potatoes, chicken neck sausage and burnt Bisque cheesecake.

Bar owner James Cadariu, 52, of Detroit, puts a wine bottle on display at Ladder 4 Wine Bar in Detroit on Feb. 10, 2023.

Los Angeles, California

Kuya Lord: Filipino food

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Ensalada talong at kamatis, tofu and mushroom, hiramasa collar and lucenachon Kuya tray.

Pijja Palace: A combination of Indian cooking and American pub food

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Dosa onion rings, red wings, malai rigatoni and green tikka pijja.

Miami, Florida

Maty's: Peruvian restaurant

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Cebiche mixto, tortitas de maiz, chita asada and picarones.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Dakar Nola: Senegalese food with a modern twist

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: $150 prix fixe menu, and Bon Appetit says to trust Chef Serigne Mbaye. You can bring your own wine for a corkage fee.

MaMou: French restaurant

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Bread service, cassoulet, celeriac remoulade and risotto.

New York City

Kono: Japanese yakitori with a focus on chicken

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: $175 for 16 courses of organic Amish chicken and seasonal vegetables, with supplementary skewers of crown, gizzards and Wagyu beef available.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Sedalia's Oyster & Seafood: Seafood

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Focaccia with Szechuan oil and salt cod butter, Oklahoma paddlefish caviar, grilled anticuchos, fried crispy cod cheeks with mojo rojo and sorghum mousse.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Heavy Metal Sausage Co.: Specialty meat producer, butcher and deli

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Poppe's Sandwich and charcuterie board for lunch, and the $75, four-course Trattoria Night menu, which changes weekly.

Beef tartare with Sungold tomatoes at Heavy Metal Sausage Co. in Philadelphia. The restuarant was named among the 24 best new restaurants in America this year by Bon Appetit.

Pietramala: Plant-based restaurant

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Barncat Salad and fresh pasta, although the menu changes weekly.

Phoenix, Arizona

Chilte: Mexican restaurant

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: The menu rotates, so the magazine recommends to order everything.

A pasta dish at Chilte, a Mexican restaurant inside the Egyptian Motor Hotel in Phoenix's Grand Avenue Arts District.

Portland, Oregon

Kann + Sousol: Haitian restaurant and basement bar

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Plantain brioche buns, peanut creamed greens, cauliflower and bone-in rib-eye steak.

Quincy, Massachusetts

Rubato: Modern Hong Kong cafe

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Rubato sampan congee, fried chicken bolo, HK French toast with lava egg yolk, you tiao and house soy milk.

San Francisco, California

Noodle in a Haystack: Ramen restaurant

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Five-course, $130 weeknight menu, seven to eight-course $185 extended menu or a $280 extended menu with a sake pairing.

Shuggie's: Climate solutions restaurant and natural wine bar

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Captain Beefheart & His Spicy Meatball Night, Sexy Shroomy Hot Pocket and Sausage Party Trash Pie.

Savannah, Georgia

Brochu's Family Tradition: Southern restaurant

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Oysters with yuzu green peppercorn sauce, the whole chicken dinner, dirty rice, cabbages and assorted pies by the slice.

Crispy fried chicken is the center piece of the Chicken Dinner at Brochu's Family Tradition in the Starland District.

Washington, D.C.

Bar Spero: Seafood bar and grill

What Bon Appetit recommends to order: Oysters, beef tartare, charred cabbages, whole turbot, torrijas and egg yolk caramel.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bon Appetit's 24 best new US restaurants in 2023 from magazine staff
OOIDA secretary Bob Esler and late president/CEO Jim Johnston were an important part of the association's beginnings. (Photo: OOIDA)

FreightWaves Classics is sponsored by Old Dominion Freight Line  Helping the World Keep Promises. Learn more here.

Owner-operators are a vital part of logistics in the United States. While the majority of truck drivers do work for a company, there are 350,000 to 400,000 owner-operators in the U.S. and Canada  an integral number.

There are both advantages and disadvantages in driving for a specific company and being independent. But for owner-operators, who is there to protect them?

Well, the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Associations purpose is to do just that. It says its goal is to represent the interests of independent owner-operators and professional drivers on all issues that affect truckers. One hundred and sixty thousand drivers are part of the group within the U.S. and Canada, all working toward a common goal to create an equal and fair driving industry. And with the tumultuous nature of the industry today and threats of strikes throughout numerous industries, this is a polarizing topic right now.

Today, OOIDA fights for fair pay and equal insurance benefits and against bad regulations, but how did it start?

OOIDA was created in 1973 and its ambition was not much different than it is today.

A global issue in the 1970s brought individual drivers together to fight for help for the trucking industry. In October 1973, the United States showed its support for Israel during the Yom Kippur War, which started when Egypt and Syria launched a surprise attack on Israel during the Jewish holy day.

According to Britannica, when Israel began gaining ground in the war into Egypt and Syrian territory, Arab members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries banned the sale of oil to the U.S. and other Western countries. The hope was to force the West to put pressure on Israel to retreat.

The embargo caused serious issues in the U.S., especially for the trucking industry. Fuel prices skyrocketed and an energy crisis across the world took hold. Once it nearly shut down the country, a group of go-getter truck drivers formed and took a trip to Washington, D.C.

Story continues

They presented a list of issues plaguing drivers to lawmakers, with fuel availability and pricing reportedly at the top of the list. The group spent weeks in Washington and left feeling very frustrated but nonetheless enlightened on what would need to be done. The group decided it needed to be strongly unified, informed and funded. The newly formed OOIDA elected Jim Johnston as president in 1975. He remained in the role until he died in 2018.

OOIDA created its first headquarters along Interstate 70 in the parking lot of a truck stop in Missouri. The building was simply a trailer chained to a light post. Today, the association has a much more impressive building in Grain Valley, Missouri but still fights for important issues facing drivers. The group maintains its original spirit with every director and officer being a current or past driver. The board consists of 21 members, and OOIDA also has a fully staffed government affairs office in Washington to lobby on drivers behalf.

FreightWaves Classics articles look at various aspects of the transportation industrys history. Click here to subscribe to our newsletter!

Have a topic you want me to cover? Email me at bjaekel@freightwaves.com or follow me on Twitter.

The post OOIDAs scrappy start appeared first on FreightWaves.
Key Insights

The projected fair value for Pan African Resources is UK0.19 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Pan African Resources' UK0.14 share price signals that it might be 26% undervalued

Analyst price target for PAF is US$0.23, which is 18% above our fair value estimate

Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of Pan African Resources PLC (LON:PAF) by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Models like these may appear beyond the comprehension of a lay person, but they're fairly easy to follow.

Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model.

View our latest analysis for Pan African Resources

What's The Estimated Valuation?

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. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. 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 discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars:

Story continues

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$11.7m US$86.1m US$72.9m US$65.4m US$61.0m US$58.4m US$56.8m US$56.0m US$55.7m US$55.7m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x1 Analyst x2 Analyst x1 Est @ -10.27% Est @ -6.77% Est @ -4.33% Est @ -2.62% Est @ -1.42% Est @ -0.58% Est @ 0.01% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 13% US$10.4 US$67.5 US$50.6 US$40.2 US$33.2 US$28.1 US$24.2 US$21.2 US$18.6 US$16.5

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$310m

The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after 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 (1.4%) 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 13%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = US$56m (1 + 1.4%)  (13% 1.4%) = US$488m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$488m ( 1 + 13%)10= US$144m

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is US$455m. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of UK0.1, the company appears a touch undervalued at a 26% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind.

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. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Pan African Resources 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 13%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.209. 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 Pan African Resources

Strength

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Metals and Mining market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the British market.

Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.

Threat

Dividends are not covered by cash flow.

Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year.

Moving On:

Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and it ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. What is the reason for the share price sitting below the intrinsic value? For Pan African Resources, there are three relevant items you should look at:

Risks: Every company has them, and we've spotted 1 warning sign for Pan African Resources you should know about. Future Earnings: How does PAF'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 AIM 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.
Illinois-based advisor brings over 20 years of experience and $150 million in total client assets

PHOENIX, Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Osaic, Inc. (Osaic), one of the nation's largest providers of wealth management solutions, announced the successful recruitment of Greg Diamond, CPA, PFS, RFC to its newly rebranded and consolidated firm. Mr. Diamond is Senior Advisor and Principal at GCD Advisors of Lincolnshire, IL. Formerly affiliated with Ausdal Financial Partners Inc., he has 20+ years of experience and brings $150 million in total client assets to the firm. Mr. Diamond will partner with existing Osaic advisor Adam Schwartz.

GCD Advisors, LLC, is an independent RIA providing comprehensive wealth management and tax services since 1965. The firm has built its reputation by helping busy families and small businesses address all the financial aspects of their lives and come up with complete financial plans that include wealth management, tax strategies and, for business owners, operational consultation.

"By partnering with Adam and Osaic, GCD will be positioned to grow our business, provide even better services to our clients and attract other like-minded advisors who are looking to join a firm focused on the future," said Mr. Diamond. "I have known and respected Adam for years and am excited to work with him and his team to bring their decades of leadership in investment, wealth management and business consulting to our clients."

An industry veteran

Mr. Diamond is a senior advisor, Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) Representative, Personal Financial Specialist (PFS), Registered Financial Consultant (RFC), as well as a Certified Public Accountant. He has owned, operated and sold multiple businesses over the years and is the primary author of the GCD Financial Life Planner, a precise and detailed planning tool that is the foundation of GCD's planning process. Mr. Diamond is a graduate of Indiana University and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

Story continues

Mr. Schwartz said, "I am thrilled to partner with Greg and GCD Advisors. We have ambitious growth plans and believe that the resources, services, and support we receive from Osaic will help us expand our business and recruit high-quality advisors. Our combined size and talents will augment our clients' overall experience as we continue to serve them with distinction."

Osaic continues to grow its ranks

Kristen Kimmell, Executive Vice President Business Development, Osaic added, "On behalf of Osaic, I'd like to welcome Greg to our growing firm. I believe that together, Greg, Adam and the entire GCD team will be a true force in the suburban Chicago region. They have the scale, experience and drive to do great things for their firm and clients. We are committed to supporting their growth goals and look forward to all we can do together in the coming years in our evolving industry."

About OSAIC

Osaic, Inc. ("Osaic"), a portfolio company of Reverence Capital Partners, is one of the nation's largest providers of wealth management solutions, supporting over 11,000 financial professionals. Our mission is to support the strategic role that financial professionals can play in the lives of their clients. Cultivating a spirit of entrepreneurship and independence, Osaic champions the enduring value of financial professionals. For more information visit www.osaic.com

Securities and investment advisory services are offered through the firms: FSC Securities Corporation, Osaic Wealth, Inc., Triad Advisors, LLC, Infinex Investments, Inc., and Woodbury Financial Services, Inc., broker-dealers, registered investment advisers, and members of FINRA and SIPC. Securities are offered through Securities America, Inc., American Portfolios Financial Services, Inc., and Ladenburg Thalmann & Co., broker-dealers and member of FINRA and SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Arbor Point Advisors, LLC, American Portfolios Advisors, Inc., Ladenburg Thalmann Asset Management, Inc., Securities America Advisors, Inc., and Triad Hybrid Solutions, LLC, registered investment advisers. Advisory programs offered by FSC Securities Corporation, Osaic Wealth, Inc., Securities America Advisors, Inc., Triad Advisors, LLC., and Woodbury Financial Services, Inc., are sponsored by VISION2020 Wealth Management Corp., an affiliated registered investment adviser.

Media Inquiries

Joseph Kuo / Donald Cutler

Haven Tower Group

jkuo@haventower.com or dcutler@haventower.com

424 317 4851 or 424 317 4864

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/osaic-welcomes-greg-diamond-and-gcd-advisors-to-its-growing-roster-of-affiliated-firms-301927344.html

SOURCE Osaic, Inc.
TORONTO & NAIROBI, Kenya, September 14, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Powered by People (PBP), the wholesale marketplace for sustainably-made goods, announced today that it is collaborating with Liberty, Londons iconic department store, to supply a broad array of homewares to the retailer.

Driven by discovery, Liberty is recognized for its commitment to honour heritage craft, while supporting future social change. Powered by People will help fuel Libertys efforts by supplying the retailer with product from some of the worlds most gifted and conscious artisans. The launch collection, featuring global makers Itza Wood (Guatemala), Siafu Home (Kenya), Pais Textil (Peru), Fors Studio (Canada), LYChee (Turkiye), andJacob (Mexico) and FieldKit (Canada) is available now at Libertys flagship store and online at LibertyLondon.com.

"We are thrilled to collaborate with Powered by People, the wholesale marketplace for sustainable goods," says Sarah Coonan, Managing Director, Liberty Retail, "Its a relationship based on shared valuesto bring authentic, sustainably made products to the UK."

The partnership between Powered by People and Liberty speaks to the growing consumer demand for authentic, differentiated and sustainably-made products, while simultaneously providing global makers with the access and agency they need to grow their businesses. In celebration of the launch, Liberty presents a dynamic panel discussion on Monday 18th September as part of London Design Festival with founders from Powered by People and two of PBPs artisan makers, Siafu Home from Kenya and Itza Wood from Guatemala. The discussion will focus on how technology can drive positive change, connect the global craft community to commerce and demonstrate tangible sustainability in its value chains.

"We are proud to work with Liberty, who is committed to bringing the most extraordinary, high quality and sustainable products from even the most remote parts of the world to their customer," says Alison Phillips, a Founder at Powered by People. "We are excited to support the launch during London Design Festival."

Story continues

Powered by People supports sustainably-focused makers by seamlessly connecting them to global markets through its B2B tech platform, while also providing the digital tools and financing resources producers need to scale their businesses in a meaningful way. Its rapidly growing network of over 700 sustainable makers across more than 70 countries gives retailers like Liberty and trade partners access to some of the highest-quality, most socially and environmentally responsibly-made products on the planet.

Select images of the Powered by People for Liberty collection for media use can be found here.

About Powered by People: Powered by People was founded in 2021 by Ella Peinovich, Hedvig Alexander and Alison Phillips, passionate social entrepreneurs whose combined experience in technology, economic development, design and retail have made a positive impact on the lives of makers in communities all over the world. The companys technology platform seamlessly connects buyers in North America, UK and Europe with high quality maker brands and producers in more than 70 countries around the world. The Powered by People B2B wholesale marketplace makes environmentally sustainable, and social-impact buying easy by providing financing to makers and international communications, payments and logistics support for buyers. Ultimately, Powered by People is maker-led with a mission to take sustainable buying mainstream. When sustainable businesses thrive, they support not just themselves, but also their employees families and communities. As they grow, we all flourish. www.poweredbypeople.com , @powered_by_people

About Liberty: Liberty is a movement dedicated to discovery, animated by arts, culture, design and the pursuit of beauty. Liberty is famed for its original curation, directional design and celebration of craftsmanship. In the spirit of our founder, Arthur Lasenby Liberty, we remain unapologetically eccentric and committed to bringing good design to all. LibertyLondon.com, @LibertyLondon

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914614830/en/

Contacts

Powered by People

Kasun de Costa

kasun@poweredbypeople.com
TotalEnergies and Air Liquide have signed an agreement for the long-term supply of green and low carbon hydrogen to the TotalEnergies refining and petrochemical platform in Normandy.

The project will contribute to the decarbonisation of the Gonfrevillle site, reducing its CO2 emissions by up to 150,000 tons a year.

This cooperation between Air Liquide and TotalEnergies is aligned with the two companies shared commitment to contributing to decarbonise industrial operations in the Axe Seine corridor.

The project calls for the supply of 10,000 tons of green hydrogen per year to the TotalEnergies platform in Normandy and up to 5,000 tons per year of low carbon hydrogen starting from the second half of 2026.

It is comprised of two integrated parts:

The production of green and low carbon hydrogen by the Normandhy electrolyzer, which will be built and operated by Air Liquide, with a total electrical capacity of 200 MW. TotalEnergies will have access to half of this production capacity, corresponding to the amount of hydrogen supplied to its refinery.

TotalEnergies will supply around 700 GWh/year of renewable and low carbon power to the Air Liquide electrolyzer for half of its capacity, i.e. 100 MW, corresponding to the share of hydrogen delivered to the TotalEnergies refinery in Normandy.

"This partnership with Air Liquide is a new step in TotalEnergies' ambition to decarbonise the hydrogen used by its refineries in Europe by 2030. By supplying the electrolyzer with renewable electricity from solar and wind projects, TotalEnergies is making the most of its positioning as an integrated power supplier," said Bernard Pinatel, President Refining & Chemicals.

This Memorandum of Understanding with TotalEnergies illustrates our ability to offer concrete decarbonisation solutions to our customers. Air Liquide NormandHy will contribute to the decarbonisation trajectory of our assets; it is also in line with our commitment to accompany the industry and mobility sectors in their path to reducing their carbon footprint." said Pascal Vinet, Executive Vice President and a member of Air Liquides Executive Committee, supervising notably Europe Industries activities.

He added "Our collaboration with TotalEnergies also strengthens hydrogen development in Normandy. Supported by the French State and the European Union, the Air Liquide NormandHy project confirms our commitment to develop renewable and low-carbon hydrogen production by electrolysis technology at industrial scale."-TradeArabia News Service
Mahalo to Relief Bed International Corporate and Private Donors who Supported This Donation.

TACOMA, Wash., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Relief Bed International was able to respond quickly to the needs of aid workers in Maui with 100 Relief Beds already arriving to help with displaced families.

Shipment of Relief Beds to Maui, HI

"We are so honored to have partners like World Vision who are able to respond quickly via their warehousing of disaster relief supplies and then coordinate shipments quickly, stated Scott Smalling Relief Bed International Founder. Further, Relief Bed International wouldn't have beds to provide without the support of our committed private donors and corporate partners like Brentwood Home, Robert Craig Films, Worship 24/7 and ESS Universal", continued Smalling.

"Worship 24/7 is designed to facilitate an experience with God that is so personal that He permanently changes one's priorities and sparks the life-long process of being conformed to the image of Jesus," stated David Harms Founder and CEO of Worship 24/7. "When choosing a partner like Relief Bed International we put them up against that lens and then shared their mission with our listeners", continued Harms.

"We are honored to partner with Relief Bed International to support Lahaina and all Maui County residents affected as they seek comfort and shelter following the devastating wildfires," explained Jennifer Stolo, CEO of Robert Craig Films. "As portrayed in our upcoming feature film, No Address, and documentary, Americans With No Address, we highlight how homelessness can unexpectedly happen to anyone.", continued Stolo.

"Prior to the fires, we had a team member visit the historic community of Lahaina. We are heartbroken. At ESS universal we hope to support an already resilient community with the gift of rest", shared Phil Bouman CEO of ESS Universal.

"At Avocado and Brentwood Home we pride ourselves on helping people get a more restful sleep, so our partnership with Relief Bed International is a perfect fit for our mission as a business," stated Brian Baxter Chief Revenue Officer at Avocado Brands and Brentwood Home.

Story continues

With natural disasters on the rise, Relief Bed International is one of the few organizations that is standing at the ready to help displaced families with a better nights rest during this traumatic time in their lives. In fact, within weeks of Relief Bed International's response to the Maui Wildfires, a category 3 hurricane (Idalia) made landfall in a small town of Keaton Beach, FL and churned Northeast through Georgia and parts of the Carolinas before going back out to the Atlantic. Internationally Morocco suffered a devastating earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 and significant loss of life. Most recently areas of Libya were impacted by destructive flooding.

Please help Relief Bed International continue its life changing work by becoming a corporate partner or by making a donation. You can make tax deductible donations via their website www.reliefbed.Org or by mail.

Relief Bed International PO Box 503 Tacoma, WA 98401.

Corporate partners who want more information on how to become a partner of Relief Bed International please email them at: info@reliefbed.com

About Relief Bed International

Relief Bed International provides strategically built beds to disaster relief victims through their network of international relief partners around the globe. Relief Bed International is a federally recognized 501c3 non-profit. www.reliefbed.org

About Robert Craig Films

Robert Craig Films is a film company located in Placer County, California, with a mission to develop, create and produce high-quality, entertaining movies that inspire the viewers to engage with greater empathy, compassion, and generosity in the communities they live in. Visit www.noaddressmovie.com for more information. www.RobertCraigFilms.com

About ESS Universal

At ESS Universal, we think that everyone deserves a bed that's durable and comfortable because strength comes from a good night's rest. ESS is your complete source for Heavy Duty Adult Metal Bunk Beds [ rated at 500 lbs per platform ], Waterproof High-Density Mattresses, and Accessories. Gorilla Strong. Bed Bug Smart. www.HeavyDutyBunkBeds.com

Relief Bed Logo

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/relief-beds-arrive-in-maui-county-to-help-displaced-families-301927212.html

SOURCE Relief Bed International
A bipartisan legislative push is afoot on Capitol Hill to prohibit all U.S. employers from forcing their retired workers into Medicare Advantage coverage  a proposal that could spell trouble for Mayor Adams, whos trying to mandate the privatized health insurance program for New York Citys 250,000 municipal retirees.

The anti-Advantage effort is expected to formally get underway Thursday, when Reps. Nicole Malliotakis and Ritchie Torres, both of whom represent parts of New York City, plan to co-introduce a bill that would amend U.S. social security law so that itd become illegal for public and private employers to involuntarily shift Medicare-aged retirees into Advantage plans.

Under the legislation, a copy of which was exclusively shared with the Daily News ahead of its introduction, the only way an employer could legally force a senior into an Advantage plan is if it secures consent from the person to do so.

Malliotakis, a Republican who represents Staten Island and parts of southern Brooklyn, said the bill is directly aimed at blocking a long-running bid by Adams to switch the citys municipal retirees into an Advantage plan on the auspice that itd save the city money on health care costs.

Mayor Eric Adams broke the citys commitment to our civil servants, Malliotakis said of the attempted Advantage switchover. Our teachers, firefighters, police officers, sanitation workers, and other municipal workers did not deserve this bait and switch. Our bipartisan legislation rectifies this injustice by giving them a choice in their earned healthcare benefit.

Torres, a Democrat who represents a section of the Bronx, did not call out Adams by name like Malliotakis.

But he did say hes sponsoring the bill after hearing from retired city workers who oppose the Advantage switch over fears the privatized plan would provide inferior coverage compared to traditional Medicare.

Story continues

Medicare is how millions of seniors and retirees are able to go to the doctor, get the care they need, and live decent, dignified, and healthy lives, he said. We must do everything we can to prevent and defend Medicare from being privatized, including preserving the rights of seniors to access the coverage of their choosing. No employer should be able to involuntarily kick retirees off the plan they chose and earned in favor of a private plan they dont want.

Spokespeople for Adams did not immediately return requests for comment Thursday morning.

Unlike traditional Medicare  which has typically consisted of the universal federal program and a city-subsidized Medigap supplement for municipal workers Advantage plans are administered by private health insurance providers.

A grassroots group composed of thousands of retired city workers say the Advantage plan favored by Adams would dilute their benefits. One of their top concerns has been findings in federal studies that Advantage, due to its privatized structure, can deny plan holders medically necessary care.

The grassroots group, the NYC Organization of Public Service Retirees, has successfully sued the Adams administration multiple times to block it from implementing its Advantage plan, with judges finding it violates local laws requiring the city to provide its public sector retirees with premium-free heath care for life.

Most recently, the administration was blocked by a Manhattan Supreme Court judge from having its Advantage plan take effect Sept. 1; the administration is appealing that ruling.

The current structure of Adams plan would make Advantage the only health care option available for retired city workers, eliminating even the possibility for them to enroll in traditional Medicare, unless they want to do so on their own on the open market.

An aide to Torres acknowledged that the bill the congressman and Malliotakis are introducing would not be retroactive. That means the bill would not derail Adams Advantage plan should he manage to implement it before their legislation potentially passes Congress and is signed into law on the federal level.

For starters, the bill only has Malliotakis and Torres listed as sponsors. But the Torres aide said the bipartisan nature of the measure out the gate is promising.

Were encouraged its starting with bipartisan support, and hope to see more members sign on, particularly from [New York City], the aide told The News.

Adams and the Municipal Labor Committee, which operates as an umbrella group for most of the citys public sector unions, back Advantage because they say it will generate as much as $600 million in annual health care savings  a sizable sum at a time the citys projecting massive budget deficits in coming years.

Adams and labor brass also say the customized Advantage plan theyre advancing, which would be administered by health insurance giant Aetna, should provide retirees with coverage that is up to par with traditional Medicare.

The Advantage advocacy from Adams and the MLC has drawn widespread pushback.

The Torres-Malliotakis bill is the second piece of legislation aimed at preventing Adams from going down the Advantage path.

The first legislative effort is a bill introduced in the City Council. That bill, introduced by socialist Brooklyn Councilman Charles Barron, would enshrine into law that the city government must provide its retirees with at least one premium-free traditional Medicare plan.

Barrons bill has also earned bipartisan support. As of Thursday, 18 of the Councils 51 members are listed as co-sponsors of the measure, Council records show.
Children ride scooters past 'open house' flags displayed outside a single family home in Los Angeles, California. Allison Dinner/Getty Images

Return-to-office policies are an emerging force in the housing market, according to a Redfin survey.

It found that about 10% of home sales are driven by employees who are forced to end remote work.

More and more companies have been requiring their employees to come into the office at least a few days per week.

Remote-work trends are starting to reverse, and that's forcing some people to sell their homes, according to a survey from Redfin.

It found that 10.1% of people who are likely to move in the next year are doing so because of a return-to-office policy.

During the pandemic, as remote work flourished, some employees left big cities and bought properties in mountain towns and other remote areas of the country. But more and more companies are beginning to require that their employees spend at least a few days of the week in the office.

And that's forcing some employees who fled big cities in favor of buying a home elsewhere to make a difficult decision.

"Return-to-office mandates are forcing some people to choose between selling their home at a loss or losing their job," Redfin said.

Redfin highlighted an anecdote from real estate agent Shauna Pendleton in Boise, Idaho, which was a popular destination for big city remote workers during the pandemic.

She has clients selling their home after purchasing it just a year ago near the housing market peak because they have to move back to Seattle for in-person work.

"My sellers both work at the same company, which told them they have to be in the office three days a week or they'll lose their jobs. They have six months to make the move. They'll probably have to take a $100,000 loss on their home," Pendleton said.

Companies that have asked their employees to return to the office for work, at least on a part time basis, include Amazon, Apple, Alphabet, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, and Meta, among others.

Making the decision even more difficult for some homeowners is the fact that mortgage rates have doubled over the past year to above 7%, which significantly limits affordability for prospective home buyers, especially in higher-priced cities.

Story continues

While return-to-office policies are an emerging force in the housing market, Redfin's survey showed that the desire for more space was the top reason for moving at 33.8%.

Other top reasons were to be closer to family (22.6%), for a lower cost of living (21.6%), and to get a better deal on a home (20.5%).

Read the original article on Business Insider
FWD Group Holdings, the Hong Kong-based insurer backed by billionaire Richard Li Tzar-kai, has decided to postpone its Hong Kong initial public offering (IPO) for the second time due to ongoing market volatility.

The insurer, which marked its 10th anniversary in August, refiled its application to list on the city's stock exchange in March this year. It aimed to use the proceeds from the IPO to support growth and the enhancement of its digital capabilities and strategy.

FWD first postponed its planned US$1 billion listing, originally filed in February 2022, in May last year, also due to market volatility.

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

The attempted Hong Kong listings came after the insurer shelved a plan to list in New York in 2021 amid ongoing US-China tensions. It had aimed to raise up to US$3 billion in New York in September 2021, which would have valued the company at US$13 billion.

Bull statues sit outside Exchange Square, in Hong Kong on August 18, 2023. IPO activity has dropped amid a 9.2 loss for the Hang Seng Index this year. Photo: Reuters alt=Bull statues sit outside Exchange Square, in Hong Kong on August 18, 2023. IPO activity has dropped amid a 9.2 loss for the Hang Seng Index this year. Photo: Reuters>

"The [Hong Kong stock] market condition is not good," said a source familiar with the matter, who added that the company is in no rush to list because it is financially strong.

The Hang Seng Index was headed for a seventh day of slide on Thursday, taking the losses to 9.2 per cent this year, making it the worst performer among the world's key stock benchmarks as overseas investors sold amid jitters about China's dire economic outlook and frayed ties with the US. So far this year, 35 companies have started trading in the city after raising a combined US$2.7 billion from IPOs, according to Bloomberg data. In 2022, 72 companies raised a total of US$12.5 billion.

Story continues

FWD said it has not abandoned the plan and "will assess the appropriate time to further re-file the application".

The company, which ranks among the top three insurers in Thailand and the Philippines, announced its six-month performance two weeks ago, posting a 22 per cent year on year increase in the total value of new business to US$482 million. The company also reported a 56 per cent increase in its segmental adjusted operating profit before tax to US$307 million.

Huynh Thanh Phong, group chief executive officer and executive director of FWD, said the solid results in its largest markets of Hong Kong, Thailand and Japan were "complemented by its emerging markets segment, which for the first time ever delivered a positive contribution to our pre-tax operating profit".

Founded in 2013, FWD has expanded to 10 markets across Asia: Cambodia, Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia. It has more than 10 million customers with total premiums worth US$6.3 billion.

The company's growth in value of new business in the first half also reflected the return of mainland Chinese visitors to Hong Kong and Macau, Huynh said in the result statement.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2023 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2023. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Russian President Vladimir Putin. (Photo by ALEXANDER KAZAKOV/SPUTNIK/AFP via Getty Images)

Oil prices are surging again  and that's making Russia a lot richer.

The Kremlin's crude export revenues jumped $1.8 billion last month, according to the International Energy Agency.

The surge comes with key benchmarks close to 10-month highs on recent OPEC+ production cuts.

Russia is pulling in more money from oil sales, with supply cuts by key producers driving up benchmark prices.

The Kremlin raised $17.1 billion from its crude exports last month, according to data from the International Energy Agency, up $1.8 billion from July.

Higher prices offset the potential impact of Russia's total output falling by around 150,000 barrels a day, the IEA added.

West Texas Intermediate crude has climbed 26% to around $96 a barrel since the end of June, while the Urals crude gauge of Russian prices has jumped 33% over the same period.

Supply cuts by the leaders of the OPEC+ cartel have fueled the rally, which has lifted the two key benchmarks close to 10-month highs.

Saudi Arabia slashed its output by 1 million barrels a day back in July, with the restrictions expected to last until the end of October according to a recent survey of commodities traders and analysts.

Meanwhile, Russia's deputy prime minister said on August 31 that Moscow would carry on pumping out less oil, pledging to cut exports by 300,000 barrels a day this month.

Rising oil revenues are likely to give Russia a much-needed economic boost as the Kremlin presses ahead with its ongoing war in Ukraine.

Western countries imposed a $60-a-barrel cap on Russian crude in December 2022 but Moscow has excelled at evading those sanctions, according to multiple think tanks.

Read the original article on Business Insider
(Bloomberg) -- Salesforce Inc. Chief Executive Officer Marc Benioff said he pushed San Francisco officials to clean up the city before his companys annual conference began in its hometown this week and is happy with the results.

Most Read from Bloomberg

We put a lot of pressure on the city this year, Benioff said Wednesday during a press event. It looks great. Its very safe right now. Were moving in the right direction.

Benioff caused a stir last month when he said that Dreamforce, San Franciscos largest convention, could leave the city if those attending the event were affected by homelessness and drug use.

Nobody liked that  I didnt like to say it, Benioff said about his threat during a separate event Wednesday on stage with California Governor Gavin Newsom.

Were sucking up to you, we want to keep you here, Newsom said, after Benioff remarked that the city this week is the cleanest hes ever seen it.

About 43,000 people are expected to attend Dreamforce, which will generate almost $90 million for the city, a Salesforce spokesperson said, citing San Francisco Travel Association data. The conference is scheduled to conclude on Thursday.

A move away from the city by Salesforces most-significant annual meeting would be another blow to the areas tourism economy, following the relocation of major events run by Oracle Corp. and the cloud division of Alphabet Inc.s Google. Conference spending remains far below pandemic levels  falling to $587 million in 2022 after generating almost $2 billion in 2019, according to the San Francisco Travel Association.

The association estimates that convention-related hotel stays will decline 34% in 2024 compared with this year. Overall visitor spending has been quicker to rebound, and is expected to be at 88% of pre-pandemic levels this year.

Story continues

Read More: San Franciscos Streets Empty, While Nearby San Jose Is Booming

Despite being happy with how things have gone this year, Benioff didnt respond to a press question about whether Dreamforce would be back in San Francisco in 2024, saying city officials have more work to do. Homelessness remains a major issue in our city, Benioff said, adding that more housing is needed and more police officers should be hired.

Ramping up police visibility and community ambassadors in key tourist areas has been an ongoing effort, said a spokesperson for Mayor London Breeds office. San Francisco is committed to making Dreamforce a world-class event, as we do year after year.

Salesforce representatives said there havent been any reports of safety incidents around homelessness or drug use affecting conference attendees as of Wednesday afternoon. A San Francisco Police Department spokesman said there were no such incidents during last years Dreamforce event either.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
By Brenda Goh and Ryan Woo

SHANGHAI/BEIJING (Reuters) -Beijing on Thursday blasted the launch of a probe by the European Commission into China's electric vehicle (EV) subsidies as protectionist and warned it would damage economic relations, a concern shared by Germany's car industry.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the investigation on Wednesday, accusing China of flooding global markets with electric cars at artificially low prices due to huge state subsidies.

The probe, which could result in punitive tariffs, has prompted analyst warnings of retaliatory action from Beijing and complaints from Chinese industry executives who say the sector's competitive advantage is not due to subsidies.

"(The investigation) is a naked protectionist act that will seriously disrupt and distort the global automotive industry and supply chain, including the EU, and will have a negative impact on China-EU economic and trade relations," China's Ministry of Commerce said in a statement.

"China will pay close attention to the EU's protectionist tendencies and follow-up actions, and firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies," it added.

Eurasian Group analysts warned that should Brussels ultimately levy duties against subsidised Chinese EVs, Beijing would likely impose countermeasures to hurt European industries.

The European Union's imposition of tariffs will depend on the degree of unity within the bloc.

France has called for such an investigation for months, part of a years-long campaign by President Emmanuel Macron for the EU to get tougher on trade and insist on a level playing field.

Other EU countries also see China as more of a rival than a partner and agree the bloc should be more assertive.

A decade ago Germany, wary of retaliation, opposed tariffs on Chinese solar panel imports, paving the way for a compromise with Beijing.

By contrast, German Economy Minister Robert Habeck said on Wednesday he welcomed the EU's latest action.

Story continues

Germany's car industry, conscious that a trade war could hit its business in China, was more circumspect.

Mercedes Benz said protectionist measures were counterproductive and Bosch, the world's largest automotive supplier, said a race for punitive tariffs and trade barriers would only have losers.

"Chinese distortions of competition are a particular problem that Europe should tackle, but if possible not with excessive subsidies or new punitive tariffs at the end of a lengthy process," said Volker Treier, head of trade at the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK)

Some analysts said the probe should not pose a big risk for Chinese EV makers because they could turn to other growing markets like Southeast Asia.

The manufacturers have been accelerating export efforts as slowing consumer demand in China exacerbates production overcapacity.

Hong Kong-listed shares of Chinese EV makers pared initial losses, with market leader BYD closing down 1.2%. Smaller rivals Geely Auto and Nio fell 0.5% and 0.9%, respectively. Xpeng reversed losses to rise 0.4%.

Shanghai-listed shares of state-owned car giant SAIC, whose MG brand is the best-selling China-made brand in Europe, closed down 0.3%.

Nio and Geely declined to comment on the EU probe, while BYD, Xpeng and SAIC did not respond to requests for comment.

Shares in European carmakers were also among the biggest fallers on the euro zone stock index. BMW, Volkswagen, Mercedes and Stellantis were down by between 0.7% and 1.7% at 1425 GMT.

In its first response to the probe, Stellantis said it welcomed "fair competition which drives innovation and performance across our industry globally for the benefit of citizens and our customers".

STRAINED RELATIONS

The anti-subsidy probe, initiated unusually by the European Commission and not from any industry complaint, comes amid broader diplomatic strains between the EU and China.

Relations have become tense due to Beijing's ties with Moscow after Russian forces swept into Ukraine, and the EU's push to rely less on the world's second-largest economy.

The EV probe will set the tone for talks ahead of the annual China-EU Summit, due to take place before year-end, with the EU pushing for a rebalancing of trade. EU trade chief Valdis Dombrovskis will travel to China later this month.

GROWING MARKET SHARE

EU officials believe Chinese EVs are undercutting the prices of local models by about 20% in the European market, piling pressure on European automakers to produce lower-cost EVs.

The Commission said China's share of EVs sold in Europe had risen to 8% and could reach 15% in 2025.

Underscoring challenges facing established European automakers, Volkswagen is looking at cutting staff at its all-electric plant in eastern Germany, the dpa news agency reported on Wednesday.

In 2022, 35% of all exported electric cars originated from China, according to U.S. think-tank the Center for Strategic and Internal Studies (CSIS), with most destined for Europe. The single largest exporter from China is U.S. giant Tesla.

(Reporting by Donny Kwok in Hong Kong, Brenda Goh in Shanghai, Ryan Woo in Beijing, Victoria Waldersee in Frankfurt and Philip Blenkinsop in BrusselsWriting by Anne Marie RoantreeEditing by Jamie Freed, Sharon Singleton and Mark Potter)
Strengthening ties between Russia and North Korea will escalate bloc confrontation in northeast Asia, a reputable Chinese think tank has said.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's visit to Russia - his first international trip since the Covid-19 pandemic - is widely expected to see the two Cold War allies bolstering defence and economic cooperation amid sanctions by the West.

With Moscow desperately in need of a resupply of ammunition from Pyongyang due to its prolonged war in Ukraine, a potential arms trade between the two countries could revive a "Cold War-like coalition" which seeks to challenge the alliance between the US, Japan and South Korea in the Asia-Pacific region, according to a Chinese scholar from the Beijing-based China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations (CICIR).

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

"The strengthening of bilateral relations between North Korea and Russia will have a profound impact on the regional and international situation," Chen Xiangyang, director of CICIR's Korean Peninsula Program, wrote in an article on the institute's WeChat account.

"Northeast Asia will form a confrontational situation between the 'quasi-alliance' of the United States, Japan and South Korea and that of Russia and North Korea. It cannot be ruled out that hotspot issues may suddenly get out of control," he said.

"It will become more difficult to restart the denuclearisation process on the Korean peninsula and build a security and peace mechanism in northeast Asia."

Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin met at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, during the high-profile trip by the North Korean leader to Russia. Photo: AP alt=Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin met at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, during the high-profile trip by the North Korean leader to Russia. Photo: AP>

Story continues

Pyongyang fired two short-range missiles on Wednesday morning, just hours before Kim was received by Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Vostochny Cosmodrome space centre in Russia's Far East. He arrived in the country by train on Tuesday.

Kim told Putin on Wednesday that relations with Russia are a "priority" of North Korea. He said he supports every decision by Russia which is fighting "a sacred fight" for its sovereignty and security.

At the space centre, the pair also inspected assembly and launching facilities of Soyuz-2 and Angara rocket launch vehicles, according to videos released by Russian news agency Tass.

The US has warned Pyongyang not to sell arms to Russia, threatening more sanctions. The South Korean presidential office also called on Moscow to "act responsibly" towards North Korea.

The US, Japan and South Korea have strengthened coordination in the Indo-Pacific region in recent years in response to North Korea's nuclear threats and China's military activities in the South China Sea.

Chen said closer cooperation between Russia and North Korea was a countermeasure due to the "US hegemony" that has increased under President Joe Biden's administration against its former Cold War rivals, which also includes China.

"In the west, the United States took advantage of the Ukraine crisis to resurrect Nato, incited all their member states to engage in military confrontation with Russia, and proposed to weaken or even dismember Russia.

"In the east, the United States is using the North Korean nuclear issue to tighten trilateral security cooperation with Japan and South Korea, trying to overwhelm or even subvert the regimes of China and North Korea," he wrote.

Pyongyang has shown active re-engagement with both Moscow and Beijing after it appeared to reopen its borders, inviting Russian and Chinese delegations to North Korea twice since July for celebration events.

In July, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu reportedly proposed to Kim a trilateral naval drill with Moscow and Beijing, according to Yonhap, citing the South Korean intelligence agency. It is also widely speculated that Putin and Kim will discuss this proposal again during Kim's visit this week.

China has yet to respond to the proposal and has remained low-key about Kim's high-profile visit to Russia, saying only it is a matter between Russia and North Korea, with which China maintains good relations.

Zhang Baohui, a Lingnan University professor specialising in Asia-Pacific studies, said China would be cautious about holding joint drills with Russia and North Korea.

"In the near future this prospect is limited as Beijing understands that it could have major impacts on its relations with the US and South Korea. In particular, Beijing does not want to push Seoul further towards Washington and Tokyo," he said.

"However, if a new cold war with the US becomes irreversible and if Seoul further moves toward a trilateral security mechanism with Washington and Tokyo, Beijing could then enhance its own security relations with North Korea."

Chinese Premier Li Qiang held a bilateral meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol on the sidelines of the Asean summit in Jakarta last week, during which Yoon pressed China to do more to curb North Korea's nuclear threats.

In a Chinese foreign ministry response on the matter, spokeswoman Mao Ning said China is committed to peace and stability in the peninsula but stressed that "good relations between China and North Korea and China's influence on North Korea are two different concepts".

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2023 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2023. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
The new fuel farm project at the Bahrain International Airport (BIA) was inaugurated by Dr Mohammed bin Mubarak bin Dainah, the Oil and Environment Minister and the Special Envoy for Climate Affairs.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Bahrain Airport Jet Fuel Company (BAJFC) Chairman Mark Thomas, Group Chief Executive Officer of Bapco Energies; Mohamed Yousif AlBinfalah, Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) Chief Executive Officer; and other officials from partner companies, said a Bahrain News Agency report.

The minister affirmed that the current development in implementing economic projects contributed to achieving the objectives of the comprehensive development process led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and reflected the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

The minister welcomed the modernisation of services, oil facilities and infrastructure in BIA, utilising advanced and efficient technology that is compliant with environmental standards and international health and safety measures.

The new project enhances Bahrain's global position as a main hub for jet fuel services, the minister said, noting that the fuel farm was equipped with the latest technology, a network of underground pipelines and advanced storage facilities, which will contribute to operational efficiency, reducing environmental impact and offering world class services that target sustainable economic growth.

Dr Bin Dainah said the project will meet the increase in demand for jet fuel as the global aviation sector recovers its levels of activity following the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said the 77,000 sq m fuel farm with a fuel capacity of 30,000 cu m, was expected to add value by streamlining jet fuel supply and maintenance operations in BIA.

On his part, BAJCF Chairman said the fuel farm project contributed to creating a sustainable foundation for the future of energy, commending the commitment of BIA to modernising its infrastructure and facilities in line with international standards.

Thomas highlighted the role of BAJCF in implementing the vision of Bapco Energies by conducting fuel supply operations on an international scale in a safe and effective manner while working on reducing carbon emissions and achieving environmental sustainability.

BAC's CEO said the inauguration of the fuel farm and the hydrant system project underscored the importance of the strategic partnership with BAJCF, which positively impacts the development of infrastructure in BIA.

He added that the project cements the collaboration with industry-leading fuel suppliers such as Bapco, Air BP and Chevron who have been instrumental insupporting the airports efforts to meet the demands of its airlines partners and attract new operators to improve the serve the kingdoms air connectivity.
Long-established in the Telecommunication Services industry, AT&T Inc (NYSE:T) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. It has recently witnessed a surge of 3.35%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of -3.45%. However, fresh insights from the GuruFocus Score Rating hint at potential headwinds. Notably, its diminished rankings in financial strength, growth, and valuation suggest that the company might not live up to its historical performance. Join us as we dive deep into these pivotal metrics to unravel the evolving narrative of AT&T Inc.

AT&T Inc (T): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Understanding the GF Score

The GF Score is a stock performance ranking system developed by GuruFocus using five aspects of valuation, which has been found to be closely correlated to the long-term performances of stocks by backtesting from 2006 to 2021. The stocks with a higher GF Score generally generate higher returns than those with a lower GF Score. Therefore, when picking stocks, investors should invest in companies with high GF Scores. The GF Score ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 as the highest rank.

Based on the above method, GuruFocus assigned AT&T Inc the GF Score of 64 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential.

AT&T Inc: A Snapshot of the Business

AT&T Inc, with a market cap of $108.02 billion, is a major player in the Telecommunication Services industry. The company generates sales of $121.44 billion, with an operating margin of 19.92%. The wireless business contributes about two-thirds of AT&T's revenue following the spinoff of Warner Media. The firm is the third-largest U.S. wireless carrier, connecting 70 million postpaid and 18 million prepaid phone customers. AT&T also has a sizable presence in Mexico, serving 22 million customers, but this business only accounts for 3% of revenue. The firm still holds a 70% equity stake in satellite television provider DirecTV but does not consolidate this business in its financial statements.

Story continues

AT&T Inc (T): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Financial Strength Analysis

AT&T Inc's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. The company's interest coverage ratio of 3.84 positions it worse than 61.07% of 298 companies in the Telecommunication Services industry. This ratio highlights potential challenges the company might face when handling its interest expenses on outstanding debt. The company's Altman Z-Score is just 0.44, which is below the distress zone of 1.81. This suggests that the company may face financial distress over the next few years. Additionally, the company's low cash-to-debt ratio at 0.06 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels. Furthermore, the company's debt-to-Ebitda ratio is 7.81, which is above Joel Tillinghast's warning level of 4 and is worse than 89.74% of 312 companies in the Telecommunication Services industry.

Growth Prospects

A lack of significant growth is another area where AT&T Inc seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. The company's revenue has declined by -13.6 per year over the past three years, which underperforms worse than 88.39% of 379 companies in the Telecommunication Services industry. Over the past five years, AT&T Inc has witnessed a decline in its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA). The three-year growth rate is recorded at -28.2, while the five-year growth rate is at -15.9. Lastly, AT&T Inc predictability rank is just one star out of five, adding to investor uncertainty regarding revenue and earnings consistency.

AT&T Inc (T): A Deep Dive into Its Performance Potential

Conclusion

Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While AT&T Inc has a rich history and a significant presence in the Telecommunication Services industry, its current financial health and growth prospects may not be as promising as they once were. Therefore, investors should exercise caution and conduct thorough research before making investment decisions.

GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Tech giant Google, which has a significant presence in Austin, is cutting recruiters in its latest layoffs this year.

The New York Times reported Google laid off several hundred employees, which the American-Statesman has also confirmed.

The latest layoffs follow widescale cuts the company made in January when Google slashed 12,000 jobs, or about 6% of its nearly 187,000-person worldwide workforce. At the time, the company announced the cuts in a blog post, and a spokesperson declined to say if Central Texas workers were impacted.

On Thursday, Google spokesperson Courtenay Mencini confirmed to the Statesman that new layoffs affecting recruiters occurred. The company did not comment on if the layoffs hit any Austin-area employees.

Google had more than 1,500 employees in Austin as of late 2021, but the company has not revealed how recent rounds of layoffs might have affected its Austin-area workforce.

"As weve said, we continue to invest in top engineering and technical talent while also meaningfully slowing the pace of our overall hiring," Mencini said. "In line with this, the volume of requests for our recruiters has gone down. In order to continue our important work to ensure we operate efficiently, weve made the hard decision to reduce the size of our recruiting team."

Mencini said the company is supporting affected employees through the transition period with outplacement services and severance.

Everything we know: Google faces off with the Justice Department in antitrust showdown

Google has had a large Austin presence since it first opened an Austin office in 2007 that is considered one of the company's largest hubs. Google also has had plans to occupy all of a new 35-story tower being built at 601 W. Second St. As of late 2021, the company had at least 1,500 employees in Central Texas with plans to grow. The company did not give an updated Austin headcount after either recent round of layoffs.

In its latest earnings call in July, the company said it is "sharpening its focus" on artificial intelligence, and, as part of this, the company is finding areas to operate more cost efficiently. The company said it was slowing expense growth and its pace of hiring and had reallocated a number of teams to high-priority efforts.

Story continues

Google's layoffs are among industry wide cuts in recent years

Google's latest layoffs come amid a rocky period for the technology industry as tech giants have laid off thousands of employees in recent years. This has included companies with big Austin-area presences such as Round Rock-based Dell Technologies, Austin-based Indeed, Austin-based Tesla, Meta and Intel.

Dell Technologies: Round Rock-based company cuts unknown number of sales team in latest layoffs

Dan Ives, an industry analyst with Wedbush Securities, said despite Google's latest cuts, the industry's layoffs have mostly slowed down.

"Its still bumpy for many tech players such as Google, but we believe 95% of the layoffs are now in the rear-view mirror. Austin has seen an influx of talent around the tech community, and we believe the AI revolution will add jobs in Austin over the coming years including from Google," Ives said.

It has not been immediately clear how many Austin-area workers have been affected by national rounds of layoffs, because many companies have not shared local layoff numbers.

A federal law known as the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification, or WARN, Act requires employers to notify the local government in the event of a mass layoff or business closure under certain circumstances, but many layoffs don't meet the criteria for self-reporting under the narrow and complex regulations. This might include Google, which has so far not shown up in any WARN notices for Texas.

Despite the lack of concrete numbers, industry experts have said Central Texas has likely seen impacts from national layoffs in recent years.

In recent months, the latest tech cuts have included Round Rock-based Dell Technologies which cut an unknown number of sales positions last month, tech staffing firm Accenture, which cut several hundred jobs in two rounds of layoffs, and Babylon Health, which shut down its U.S. operations, cutting 94 at its Austin headquarters.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Google layoffs: Tech giant cuts recruiters, Austin impact unclear
(Bloomberg) -- More than 20 tech and civil society leaders, including the chief executives of five of the 10 biggest US companies, appeared at a closed-door Senate meeting on Wednesday to shape how artificial intelligence is regulated.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The meeting, which was organized by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, included a prestigious, and possibly combustible, mix of personalities with diverging views on how to write the rules for AI. The CEOs of Alphabet Inc., Microsoft Corp., Meta Platforms Inc. and OpenAI were invited to appear alongside rivals and industry critics to discuss possible guardrails for AI that balance the risks and rewards of the technology.

Areas of disagreement were apparent throughout the morning session, according to several people who were in the room. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates offered diverging views on the risks of open-source AI research, according to people in the room. Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk was also met with pushback from Berkeley researcher Deb Raji for appearing to downplay concerns about AI-powered self-driving cars, according to one of the people in the room.

Apart from policy disputes, there is also personal friction among some of the attendees. Musk (the worlds richest man) previously proposed a cage fight with Zuckerberg (the worlds 10th richest man) and took to his own social media platform to criticize Gates (the worlds 4th richest man) for allegedly shorting Tesla stock.

Thats probably the worst wedding to try to do seating for, said Humane Intelligence CEO Rumman Chowdhury, one of the panelists. She said there was zero interaction between Musk and Zuckerberg, who were seated on opposite ends of a long table that ran the width of the room. Despite some participants holding different views, Chowdhury described the discussion as productive overall.

Story continues

The high-profile summit comes as part of Schumers broader efforts to get the Senate up to speed on the rapidly evolving technology. While AI could revolutionize industries from health care to logistics, it also poses a number of risks, including spreading misinformation, amplifying bias and displacing jobs. Some industry critics have previously raised concerns about the potential for tech executives to have too much influence over legislation.

Regulate AI? Heres What That Might Mean in the US: QuickTake

Schumer personally called many of the CEOs and other panelists to ask them to come, according to two people who work with different meeting participants. Amazon was invited but declined to come, citing a board meeting, according to two people familiar with the matter.

The forum started just after 10 a.m. ET. On his way into the summit, Altman, who has emerged as a central figure in discussions about regulating the AI sector, said: This is sort of an important and urgent and in some ways unprecedented moment.

Musk, meanwhile, called AI a double-edged sword in off-the-cuff remarks at the meeting, telling US senators that the technology can be a tremendous source for good but warning about risks to civilization, according to a person in the closed-door session. He later called for a regulatory structure for AI. When there is something that is a potential danger to the public you want to have some oversight, Musk told reporters.

Schumer opened the meeting Wednesday noting the unusual format and argued that such a unique approach is warranted, given the importance and potential power of this new technology.

Today, we begin an enormous and complex and vital undertaking: building a foundation for bipartisan AI policy that Congress can pass, Schumer said to open the meeting. This is going to be one of the hardest tasks we undertake, because AI is so complex, will impact nearly every area of life, and is evolving all the time.

In corporate blog posts and White House meetings over the past year, some of the companies represented on Wednesday have proposed a new government agency to regulate AI, a licensing regime for the most powerful AI models and transparency requirements for AI-generated content. Other companies like International Business Machines Corp. have pushed back on some of these suggestions and offered alternative frameworks for legislation.

Read More: Schumers AI Supergroup Pushing the Tech to Top of Senate Agenda

An AI licensing regime would be a serious blow to open innovation and risks creating a form of regulatory capture, IBM CEO Arvind Krishna said in a statement. This would inadvertently increase costs, hinder innovation, disadvantage smaller players and open-source developers and cement the market power of a few players.

Most of the executives in the room have, in one way or another, urged policymakers to focus on setting rules for the way AI is used rather than for the actual development of the technology. Many of the participants stressed that the US should play a leading role in shaping global governance of AI, and some referenced Chinas tech advancements as a specific concern, according to people in the room. At one point, Schumer asked for a show of hands if the participants thought that the US government should plan an oversight role, and nearly every hand in the room went up, according to the people.

In addition to the CEOs, leaders from organized labor and civil society were also in the room Wednesday, warning about the risks that AI poses for workers, mental health and democracy. Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, and Meredith Stiehm, president of the Writers Guild of America West, were among those invited to attend.

Some senators have already questioned the practice of giving tech executives a platform to explain how they would like to be regulated, especially behind closed doors. Massachusetts Democrat Elizabeth Warren on Monday said the best way to hear from the tech billionaires is a hearing in public where people can push back on their arguments.

South Dakota Republican Mike Rounds, who worked with Schumer to organize the set of briefings to educate senators on AI, said the goal of this format is to allow for lots of different opinions in a very short period of time. He said the aim is to be as frank as possible, not necessarily grandstanding in front of a camera.

Theyll give us their opinions, well take that with a grain of salt, but most certainly well all come out with more information than we had going in Rounds told Bloomberg News Tuesday.

Schumer has tried to impart a sense of urgency on moving forward with legislation while also deferring to the committee process, which can take some time. Speaking to reporters during the lunch break, Schumer said Wednesdays insight forum will give committees the material they need to actually write legislation.

Maya Wiley, the president and CEO of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, and one of a handful of civil society figures in the room, said she was encouraged by the unanimity on regulating AI, but crafting concrete policies requires further discussion. Schumer is expected to host at least eight more AI forums, touching on issues from national security to privacy.

The tension points come in how you balance speed of the technology and figuring out how you incorporate the safety, the transparency, and the accountability in the front end so people arent harmed later, Wiley said.

--With assistance from Steven T. Dennis.

(Updates with Musk comments in ninth paragraph)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Attendees visiting booth #1050 will experience a diverse portfolio of innovative solutions empowering grocers to effectively win attention and loyalty of shoppers

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., September 14, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions, one of the most trusted strategic partners for many of the biggest names in grocery worldwide, will exhibit its best-in-class portfolio of solutions at booth #1050 at Groceryshop 2023 from September 19-21, 2023, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Groceryshop guests will experience Toshibas newest solution, the ELERA Security Suite. and a wide range of hardware, software, and service capabilities, all designed to enable retailers to reimagine, accelerate, and differentiate their shopping experiences.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914533194/en/

Groceryshop guests will experience the new ELERA Security Suite, a wide range of hardware, software, and service capabilities, and access new research into the grocery industry to enable retailers to reimagine, accelerate, and differentiate their shopping experiences. (Photo: Business Wire)

"Toshiba is a global leader in retail technology that is helping grocers rapidly adapt to meet evolving consumer needs. Our range of cutting-edge solutions, like the new ELERA Security Suite, use of the latest innovative A.I. and computer vision technology to empower retailers to effectively address their most critical challenges, including shrink and labor shortages," said Mike Puma, Director of ELERA Solution Sales. "At the same time, these innovations enable important connections with shoppers providing more enjoyable and personalized shopping experiences to keep them coming back."

New research and data into the grocery industry can empower retailers to make informed business decisions and strategic plans to help them achieve their goals. Guests who visit Toshibas booth can request access to exclusive research just completed in partnership with Incisiv on valuable grocery trends, insights about the role of technology, and the evolution of the industry. Surveying U.S. and Canadian grocers, some of the key findings include:

Story continues

79% believe it is important to offer shoppers a seamlessly unified experience across digital and physical channels - but 83% lack a unified digital and physical architecture

97% say using computer vision for customer behavior analytics is important

96% believe it is important to implement computer vision for inventory and store management in the next 1-2 years

Retail experts will explore these research findings and much more at the Groceryshop Incisiv Speakeasy sponsored by Toshiba. The event on September 20, 2023, at 6 p.m. is an opportunity for grocery executives to explore the unique findings of the study as Toshiba continues to redefine industries through insights and solutions. Interested grocery executives can preregister or come to the Toshiba booth for an opportunity to gain exclusive access to this invitation-only event.

At the Toshiba booth, Groceryshop guests will experience live demos that unify in-store operations by powering self-enablement, expanding in-store interactions, improving the customer experience, and delivering profit protection through A.I. Toshibas solutions are designed providing retailers to transform their operations to:

Combat multiple forms of shrink and provide consumers with enhanced checkout experiences through the new ELERA TM Security Suite that utilizes computer vision and EDGE cameras with advanced A.I. technology.

Increase store productivity and minimize operational expenses with the TCx  900, Toshibas newest point-of-sale system that provides advanced technology offerings through a powerful modular system in a compact design.

Support frictionless and customized shopping experiences through innovative self-checkout solutions featuring full self-checkout systems and flexible kiosks compatible with frictionless technologies, including biometric checkout, mobile payments, and item recognition.

Actively predict, diagnose, and resolve issues with Toshibas world-class global services featuring Proactive Availability Services that enable retailers to activate intelligence about their retail store systems quickly and remotely.

As the grocery industry undergoes rapid transformation, retailers are responding with innovation to win the attention and loyalty of shoppers. Toshibas latest white paper focuses on the key drivers of this paradigm shift, and retailers that prioritize understanding and meeting shopper expectations are better positioned to enhance customer satisfaction, gain a competitive edge, and increase their overall business success.

About Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions:

Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions empowers retail to thrive and prosper through a dynamic ecosystem of smarter, more agile solutions and services that enable retailers to resiliently evolve with generations of consumers and adapt to market conditions. Supported by a global organization of devoted employees and partners, retailers gain more visibility and control over operations, while enjoying the flexibility to build, scale, and transform retail experiences that anticipate and fulfill consumers ever-changing needs. Visit commerce.toshiba.com and engage with us on X, formerly known as Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube, to learn more.

Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Toshiba Tec Corporation, which is traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230914533194/en/

Contacts

MEDIA CONTACT:

Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions

Elizabeth Romero

Director, Corporate Communications

elizabeth.romero@toshibagcs.com
TransAlta Renewables (TSE:RNW) has had a great run on the share market with its stock up by a significant 10% over the last three months. However, we decided to pay close attention to its weak financials as we are doubtful that the current momentum will keep up, given the scenario. Particularly, we will be paying attention to TransAlta Renewables' ROE today.

Return on equity or ROE is a key measure used to assess how efficiently a company's management is utilizing the company's capital. Put another way, it reveals the company's success at turning shareholder investments into profits.

Check out our latest analysis for TransAlta Renewables

How Is ROE Calculated?

The formula for return on equity is:

Return on Equity = Net Profit (from continuing operations)  Shareholders' Equity

So, based on the above formula, the ROE for TransAlta Renewables is:

4.5% = CA$77m  CA$1.7b (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2023).

The 'return' is the income the business earned over the last year. One way to conceptualize this is that for each CA$1 of shareholders' capital it has, the company made CA$0.05 in profit.

Why Is ROE Important For Earnings Growth?

We have already established that ROE serves as an efficient profit-generating gauge for a company's future earnings. Depending on how much of these profits the company reinvests or "retains", and how effectively it does so, we are then able to assess a companys earnings growth potential. Assuming all else is equal, companies that have both a higher return on equity and higher profit retention are usually the ones that have a higher growth rate when compared to companies that don't have the same features.

TransAlta Renewables' Earnings Growth And 4.5% ROE

At first glance, TransAlta Renewables' ROE doesn't look very promising. We then compared the company's ROE to the broader industry and were disappointed to see that the ROE is lower than the industry average of 9.1%. Given the circumstances, the significant decline in net income by 17% seen by TransAlta Renewables over the last five years is not surprising. We reckon that there could also be other factors at play here. Such as - low earnings retention or poor allocation of capital.

Story continues

That being said, we compared TransAlta Renewables' performance with the industry and were concerned when we found that while the company has shrunk its earnings, the industry has grown its earnings at a rate of 17% in the same 5-year period.

Earnings growth is a huge factor in stock valuation. The investor should try to establish if the expected growth or decline in earnings, whichever the case may be, is priced in. This then helps them determine if the stock is placed for a bright or bleak future. Is TransAlta Renewables fairly valued compared to other companies? These 3 valuation measures might help you decide.

Is TransAlta Renewables Making Efficient Use Of Its Profits?

TransAlta Renewables' high three-year median payout ratio of 237% suggests that the company is depleting its resources to keep up its dividend payments, and this shows in its shrinking earnings. Paying a dividend higher than reported profits is not a sustainable move. You can see the 2 risks we have identified for TransAlta Renewables by visiting our risks dashboard for free on our platform here.

In addition, TransAlta Renewables has been paying dividends over a period of at least ten years suggesting that keeping up dividend payments is way more important to the management even if it comes at the cost of business growth. Upon studying the latest analysts' consensus data, we found that the company's future payout ratio is expected to drop to 143% over the next three years. As a result, the expected drop in TransAlta Renewables' payout ratio explains the anticipated rise in the company's future ROE to 12%, over the same period.

Summary

On the whole, TransAlta Renewables' performance is quite a big let-down. The low ROE, combined with the fact that the company is paying out almost if not all, of its profits as dividends, has resulted in the lack or absence of growth in its earnings. That being so, the latest industry analyst forecasts show that the analysts are expecting to see a huge improvement in the company's earnings growth rate. To know more about the company's future earnings growth forecasts take a look at this free report on analyst forecasts for the company to find out more.

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.
Assessing the Sustainability and Growth of BCE Inc's Dividend Payments

BCE Inc(NYSE:BCE) recently announced a dividend of $0.97 per share, payable on 2023-10-16, with the ex-dividend date set for 2023-09-14. As investors look forward to this upcoming payment, the spotlight also shines on the company's dividend history, yield, and growth rates. Using the data from GuruFocus, let's deep dive into BCE Inc's dividend performance and assess its sustainability.

Understanding BCE Inc's Business Model

BCE provides wireless, broadband, television, and landline phone services in Canada. It is one of the big three national wireless carriers, with its roughly 10 million customers constituting about 30% of the market. It is also the ILEC (incumbent local exchange carrierthe legacy telephone provider) throughout much of the eastern half of Canada, including in the most populous Canadian provinces: Ontario and Quebec. Additionally, BCE has a media segment, which holds television, radio, and digital media assets. BCE licenses the Canadian rights to movie channels including HBO, Showtime, and Starz. In 2022, the wireline segment made up 52% of total EBITDA, while wireless was 31% and media provided the remainder.

Unraveling BCE Inc's Dividend Performance: A Comprehensive Analysis

A Look at BCE Inc's Dividend History

BCE Inc has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 1984. Dividends are currently distributed on a quarterly basis. BCE Inc has increased its dividend each year since 2008. The stock is thus listed as a dividend achiever, an honor that is given to companies that have increased their dividend each year for at least the past 15 years.

Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends.

Unraveling BCE Inc's Dividend Performance: A Comprehensive Analysis

Decoding BCE Inc's Dividend Yield and Growth

As of today, BCE Inc currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 6.80% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 7.11%. This suggests an expectation of increase dividend payments over the next 12 months. BCE Inc's dividend yield of 6.80% is near a 10-year high and outperforms than 79.11 of global competitors in the Telecommunication Services industry, suggesting that the company's dividend yield stands out as an attractive proposition for income investors.

Story continues

Over the past three years, BCE Inc's annual dividend growth rate was 5.10%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate stayed the same. And over the past decade, BCE Inc's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at 5.20%. Based on BCE Inc's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of BCE Inc stock as of today is approximately 8.72%.

Unraveling BCE Inc's Dividend Performance: A Comprehensive Analysis

Evaluating Dividend Sustainability: Payout Ratio and Profitability

To assess the sustainability of the dividend, one needs to evaluate the company's payout ratio. The dividend payout ratio provides insights into the portion of earnings the company distributes as dividends. A lower ratio suggests that the company retains a significant part of its earnings, thereby ensuring the availability of funds for future growth and unexpected downturns. As of 2023-06-30, BCE Inc's dividend payout ratio is 1.50. And this may suggest that the company's dividend may not be sustainable.

BCE Inc's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks BCE Inc's profitability 7 out of 10 as of 2023-06-30, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported positive net income for each of year over the past decade, further solidifying its high profitability.

Examining Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook

To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. BCE Inc's growth rank of 7 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors.

Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and BCE Inc's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. BCE Inc's revenue has increased by approximately 0.10% per year on average, a rate that underperforms than approximately 66.49% of global competitors.

The company's 3-year EPS growth rate showcases its capability to grow its earnings, a critical component for sustaining dividends in the long run. During the past three years, BCE Inc's earnings increased by approximately -3.70% per year on average, a rate that underperforms than approximately 66.45% of global competitors.

Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of -2.10%, which underperforms than approximately 68.72% of global competitors.

Concluding Thoughts

While BCE Inc's dividend performance and growth over the years have been commendable, the high payout ratio and underperformance in certain growth metrics raise concerns about the sustainability of its dividends. Investors need to carefully consider these factors alongside the company's profitability and growth prospects before making investment decisions. The high dividend yield, consistent dividend history, and solid profitability rank make BCE Inc an attractive proposition for income investors, but the sustainability of these dividends in the long run remains a question.

GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Long-established in the Medical Devices & Instruments industry, Pacific Biosciences of California Inc (NASDAQ:PACB) has enjoyed a stellar reputation. However, it has recently witnessed a decline of 2.9%, juxtaposed with a three-month change of -14.78%. Fresh insights from the GuruFocus Score Rating hint at potential headwinds. Notably, its diminished rankings in financial strength, growth, and valuation suggest that the company might not live up to its historical performance. Join us as we dive deep into these pivotal metrics to unravel the evolving narrative of Pacific Biosciences of California Inc.

Unraveling the Challenges Ahead for Pacific Biosciences of California Inc (PACB)

Deciphering the GF Score

The GF Score is a stock performance ranking system developed by GuruFocus using five aspects of valuation, which has been found to be closely correlated to the long-term performances of stocks by backtesting from 2006 to 2021. The stocks with a higher GF Score generally generate higher returns than those with a lower GF Score. Therefore, when picking stocks, investors should invest in companies with high GF Scores. The GF Score ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 as the highest rank.

Based on the above method, GuruFocus assigned Pacific Biosciences of California Inc the GF Score of 62 out of 100, which signals poor future outperformance potential.

Understanding Pacific Biosciences of California Inc's Business

Pacific Biosciences of California Inc is a biotechnology company with a market cap of $2.85 billion. The company focuses on the design, development, and commercialization of tools for biological research. It develops sequencing systems to assist in resolving genetically complex problems. Its sequencing systems provide access to a wide range of applications and are designed for expandable improvements to performance capability. The majority of the company's revenue is derived from North America, followed by Asia and Europe. However, with sales of $146.14 million and an operating margin of -207.35, the company's financial health appears concerning.

Story continues

Unraveling the Challenges Ahead for Pacific Biosciences of California Inc (PACB)

Financial Strength Breakdown

Pacific Biosciences of California Inc's financial strength indicators present some concerning insights about the company's balance sheet health. The company has an interest coverage ratio of 0, which positions it worse than 0% of 420 companies in the Medical Devices & Instruments industry. This ratio highlights potential challenges the company might face when handling its interest expenses on outstanding debt. It's worth noting that the esteemed investor Benjamin Graham typically favored companies with an interest coverage ratio of at least five.

The company's Altman Z-Score is just 0.15, which is below the distress zone of 1.81. This suggests that the company may face financial distress over the next few years. Additionally, the company's low cash-to-debt ratio at 0.89 indicates a struggle in handling existing debt levels.

Profitability Breakdown

Pacific Biosciences of California Inc's low Profitability rank can also raise warning signals. The company's Operating Margin has declined over the past five years ((-1,091,359.00%)), as shown by the following data: 2018: -128.44; 2019: -110.62; 2020: -132.31; 2021: -136.51; 2022: -237.58. With a Piotroski F-Score of 2, Pacific Biosciences of California Inc's financial health appears concerning. This score, rooted in Joseph Piotroski's nine-point scale, evaluates a firm's profitability, liquidity, and operating efficiency. Given its rating, Pacific Biosciences of California Inc might be facing challenges in these areas.

Growth Prospects

A lack of significant growth is another area where Pacific Biosciences of California Inc seems to falter, as evidenced by the company's low Growth rank. The company's revenue has declined by -1.4 per year over the past three years, which underperforms worse than 73.29% of 730 companies in the Medical Devices & Instruments industry. Stagnating revenues may pose concerns in a fast-evolving market. Lastly, Pacific Biosciences of California Inc predictability rank is just one star out of five, adding to investor uncertainty regarding revenue and earnings consistency.

Unraveling the Challenges Ahead for Pacific Biosciences of California Inc (PACB)

Conclusion

Given the company's financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential underperformance. While Pacific Biosciences of California Inc has a rich history in the Medical Devices & Instruments industry, its current financial indicators suggest a challenging road ahead. Investors should consider these factors when making investment decisions.

GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


The cancelation of President Joe Bidens student loan forgiveness plan produced a rare budget surplus in August, the Treasury Department reported Wednesday. According to the Monthly Treasury Statement, the U.S. recorded an $89 billion budget surplus in August 2023  a marked contrast with the $220 billion deficit recorded in August 2022.

In June the Supreme Court struck down the Biden plan, which would have forgiven up to $20,000 in student loan debts for millions of Americans, at a cost of roughly $400 billion over 10 years. A substantial portion of that cost was added to the budget figures in August 2022; the plans cancelation generated a roughly similar credit that was applied to the budget in August 2023, helping to produce a surplus for the month  even though the program was canceled before it took effect.

This months budget outlays include impacts from the $319 billion Debt Relief Reversal downward modification to the Department of Education Federal Direct Student Loans program, resulting in a surplus of $89 billion for August 2023, the Treasury said. August typically reflects a budget deficit (68 times out of 69 fiscal years) as there are no major tax due dates.

Even with the unusual surplus recorded in August, the budget deficit is on track to grow substantially in 2023 on a year-over-year basis. The deficit in the first 11 months of the 2023 fiscal year, which started in October 2022, was $1.52 trillion  a 61% increase from the $946 billion cumulative deficit in August 2022. Leaving aside the distortions created by the accounting for the student loan forgiveness plan, both this year and last, the budget deficit will roughly double in 2023 relative to 2022.

One of the reasons for the growing deficit is the increase in debt-servicing costs. The Treasury spent $630 billion on net interest in the first 11 months of 2023, a 33% increase from the year before.

Like what you're reading? Sign up for our free newsletter.
Expeditors International of Washington Inc (NASDAQ:EXPD) has recently been in the spotlight, drawing interest from investors and financial analysts due to its robust financial stance. With shares currently priced at $116.45, Expeditors International of Washington Inc has witnessed a decline of 1.55% over a period, marked against a three-month change of -0.71%. A thorough analysis, underlined by the GuruFocus Score Rating, suggests that Expeditors International of Washington Inc is well-positioned for substantial growth in the near future.

Unveiling the Investment Potential of Expeditors International of Washington Inc (EXPD): A Comprehensive Analysis of Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths

Decoding the GF Score

The GF Score is a stock performance ranking system developed by GuruFocus using five aspects of valuation, which has been found to be closely correlated to the long-term performances of stocks by backtesting from 2006 to 2021. The stocks with a higher GF Score generally generate higher returns than those with a lower GF Score. Therefore, when picking stocks, investors should invest in companies with high GF Scores. The GF Score ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 as the highest rank.

Expeditors International of Washington Inc has been assigned the following ranks:

Each one of these components is ranked and the ranks also have positive correlation with the long term performances of stocks. The GF score is calculated using the five key aspects of analysis. Through backtesting, we know that each of these key aspects has a different impact on the stock price performance. Thus, they are weighted differently when calculating the total score. With high ranks in financial strength, profitability, and growth, but a slightly lower GF Value rank, GuruFocus assigned Expeditors International of Washington Inc the GF Score of 92 out of 100, which signals the highest outperformance potential.

Story continues

Understanding Expeditors International of Washington Inc's Business

Expeditors International of Washington Inc is a non-asset-based third-party logistics provider, mainly focused on international freight forwarding. It employs sophisticated IT systems and contracts with airlines and ocean carriers to move customers' freight across the globe. The firm operates more than 200 full-service office locations worldwide, in addition to numerous satellite locations. In 2022, Expeditors derived 34% of consolidated net revenue from airfreight, 30% from ocean freight, and 36% from customs brokerage and other services. With a market cap of $17.22 billion and sales of $12.64 billion, the company has an operating margin of 10.93%.

Unveiling the Investment Potential of Expeditors International of Washington Inc (EXPD): A Comprehensive Analysis of Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths

Financial Strength Breakdown

According to the Financial Strength rating, Expeditors International of Washington Inc's robust balance sheet exhibits resilience against financial volatility, reflecting prudent management of capital structure.

The Interest Coverage ratio for Expeditors International of Washington Inc stands impressively at 54.62, underscoring its strong capability to cover its interest obligations. This robust financial position resonates with the wisdom of legendary investor Benjamin Graham, who favored companies with an interest coverage ratio of at least 5.

With an Altman Z-Score of 10.39, Expeditors International of Washington Inc exhibits a strong defense against financial distress, highlighting its robust financial stability.

With a favorable Debt-to-Revenue ratio of 0.04, Expeditors International of Washington Inc's strategic handling of debt solidifies its financial health.

Profitability Rank Breakdown

The Profitability Rank shows Expeditors International of Washington Inc's impressive standing among its peers in generating profit.

Expeditors International of Washington Inc Operating Margin has increased (9.18%) over the past five years, as shown by the following data: 2018: 9.79; 2019: 9.65; 2020: 9.81; 2021: 11.56; 2022: 10.69; .

Furthermore, Expeditors International of Washington Inc's Gross Margin has seen a consistent rise over the past five years, as evidenced by the data: 2018: 12.54; 2019: 12.55; 2020: 12.13; 2021: 13.11; 2022: 12.72; . This trend underscores the company's growing proficiency in transforming revenue into profit.

Growth Rank Breakdown

Ranked highly in Growth, Expeditors International of Washington Inc demonstrates a strong commitment to expanding its business.

The company's 3-Year Revenue Growth Rate is 31.6%, which outperforms better than 89.88% of 909 companies in the Transportation industry

Moreover, Expeditors International of Washington Inc has seen a robust increase in its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) over the past few years. Specifically, the three-year growth rate stands at 35.4, and the rate over the past five years is 25.9. This trend accentuates the company's continued capability to drive growth.

Unveiling the Investment Potential of Expeditors International of Washington Inc (EXPD): A Comprehensive Analysis of Financial Metrics and Competitive Strengths

Conclusion

With its strong financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights Expeditors International of Washington Inc's unparalleled position for potential outperformance. This analysis underscores the company's robust financial health, impressive profitability, and consistent growth, making it a compelling investment opportunity for value investors.

GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


A young hotelier of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts has won one of the most prestigious honours open to young tourism professionals in the Asia Pacific region.

Sangeetha Liyanapathirana, Manager  Health, Hygiene and Sustainability at the hotel, a major Sri Lankan luxury hotel chain brand, has been named as the 2023 PATA Face of the Future for her inspiring engagement with the local community to achieve sustainability.

This year we received a fantastic list of applicants who could all be worthy of this recognition, and it makes me extremely hopeful for the future of our industry, said PATA Chair Peter Semone.

On behalf of everyone at the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), I would like to congratulate Ms Liyanapathirana on winning the 2023 PATA Face of the Future award. It was inspiring to learn about her passion for sustainability and how she engages with the local youth community towards this goal.

"This award fuels my commitment to fostering sustainable and responsible tourism practices. With every step forward, I aim to leave a positive impact and inspire others to explore the beauty of our world mindfully. The path to progress continues, and I'm excited for the road ahead, said Liyanapathirana

Liyanapathirana is currently responsible for managing Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility activities of the hotel, Health, Safety, Environmental Safety, Legal Affairs, and Government Relations at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo.

In addition to the vast role with the property, she also plays a lead role in Health and Safety based communications for Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts. TradeArabia News Service
MarketAxess Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:MKTX) has recently been in the spotlight, drawing interest from investors and financial analysts due to its robust financial stance. With shares currently priced at $228.04, MarketAxess Holdings Inc has witnessed a surge of 3.44% over a period, marked against a three-month change of -17.56%. A thorough analysis, underlined by the GuruFocus Score Rating, suggests that MarketAxess Holdings Inc is well-positioned for substantial growth in the near future.

Unveiling the Investment Potential of MarketAxess Holdings Inc (MKTX): A Comprehensive Analysis

Decoding the GF Score

The GF Score is a stock performance ranking system developed by GuruFocus using five aspects of valuation, which has been found to be closely correlated to the long-term performances of stocks by backtesting from 2006 to 2021. The stocks with a higher GF Score generally generate higher returns than those with a lower GF Score. Therefore, when picking stocks, investors should invest in companies with high GF Scores. The GF Score ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 as the highest rank.

MarketAxess Holdings Inc has been assigned the following ranks:

Each one of these components is ranked and the ranks also have positive correlation with the long term performances of stocks. The GF score is calculated using the five key aspects of analysis. Through backtesting, we know that each of these key aspects has a different impact on the stock price performance. Thus, they are weighted differently when calculating the total score. With high ranks in financial strength, profitability, and growth, and decent ranks in GF value and momentum, GuruFocus assigned MarketAxess Holdings Inc the GF Score of 96 out of 100, which signals the highest outperformance potential.

Understanding MarketAxess Holdings Inc Business

Founded in 2000, MarketAxess Holdings Inc is a leading electronic fixed-income trading platform that connects broker/dealers and institutional investors. The company is primarily focused on credit based fixed income securities with its main trading products being U.S. investment-grade and high-yield bonds, Eurobonds, and Emerging Market corporate debt. Recently the company has expanded more aggressively into Treasuries and municipal bonds with the acquisitions of LiquidityEdge and MuniBrokers in 2019 and 2021, respectively. The company also provides pre- and post-trade services with its acquisition of Regulatory Reporting Hub from Deutsche Borse Group in 2020 adding to its product offerings.

Story continues

This is the income breakdown of MarketAxess Holdings Inc:

Unveiling the Investment Potential of MarketAxess Holdings Inc (MKTX): A Comprehensive Analysis

Financial Strength Breakdown

According to the Financial Strength rating, MarketAxess Holdings Inc's robust balance sheet exhibits resilience against financial volatility, reflecting prudent management of capital structure.

The Interest Coverage ratio for MarketAxess Holdings Inc stands impressively at 871.49, underscoring its strong capability to cover its interest obligations. This robust financial position resonates with the wisdom of legendary investor Benjamin Graham, who favored companies with an interest coverage ratio of at least 5.

With an Altman Z-Score of 13.69, MarketAxess Holdings Inc exhibits a strong defense against financial distress, highlighting its robust financial stability.

With a favorable Debt-to-Revenue ratio of 0.11, MarketAxess Holdings Inc's strategic handling of debt solidifies its financial health.

Profitability Rank Breakdown

The Profitability Rank shows MarketAxess Holdings Inc's impressive standing among its peers in generating profit.

The Piotroski F-Score confirms MarketAxess Holdings Inc's solid financial situation based on Joseph Piotroski's nine-point scale, which measures a company's profitability, funding and operating efficiency.

MarketAxess Holdings Inc's strong Predictability Rank of 5.0 stars out of five underscores its consistent operational performance, providing investors with increased confidence.

Growth Rank Breakdown

Ranked highly in Growth, MarketAxess Holdings Inc demonstrates a strong commitment to expanding its business.

The company's 3-Year Revenue Growth Rate is 12.3%, which outperforms better than 60.65% of 681 companies in the Capital Markets industry

Moreover, MarketAxess Holdings Inc has seen a robust increase in its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) over the past few years. Specifically, the three-year growth rate stands at 12.2, and the rate over the past five years is 15.2. This trend accentuates the company's continued capability to drive growth.

Unveiling the Investment Potential of MarketAxess Holdings Inc (MKTX): A Comprehensive Analysis

Conclusion

Given the company's strong financial strength, profitability, and growth metrics, the GuruFocus Score Rating highlights the firm's unparalleled position for potential outperformance. MarketAxess Holdings Inc's robust financial health, consistent profitability, and impressive growth trajectory make it a compelling investment opportunity.

GuruFocus Premium members can find more companies with strong GF Scores using the following screener link: GF Score Screen

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


SmartAsset: Where Rich Americans Give the Most to Charity - 2022 Edition

While Americans are still facing economic challenges, monetary generosity has also increased. Charitable giving grew by 9% in 2021 for both traditional donations and online giving, according to the non-profit research division at Blackbaud Institute. This is the largest growth in a decade.

SmartAssets free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If youre ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

To determine the places where affluent Americans give the most to charity, we compared 384 metro areas across the following metrics: charitable contributions as a percentage of income, percentage of tax returns with charitable donations and the average charitable contribution. For all metrics, we specifically considered tax returns of filers with a reported income of $200,000 or higher. For details on our data sources and how we put all the information together to create our final rankings, read the Data and Methodology section below.

Key Findings

Utah and Georgia metro areas dominate the top 10. Nationally, about 47% of tax returns where filers earn upwards of $200,000 have charitable contributions. The top 10 metro areas in these two states exceed the national average by nearly 20%, with more than two in three high-earning filers claiming charitable tax deductions.

The average rich American gives about $30,600 to charity. IRS data only captures charitable contributions as noted on ones tax return. Nationwide, tax filers earning $200,000 or more $30,600

More rich tax filers are donating. IRS data from 2017 shows that 15.90% of filers earning $200,000 or more reported charitable donations on their tax returns. In 2019, this figure was more than two percentage points higher, at 18.32%.



1. Provo-Orem, UT

Four in five tax returns filed in Provo-Orem, Utah for high earners reported charitable donations, ranking first across all metro areas. Similarly, the area also took the No. 1 spot when considering charitable contributions as a percent of income (at least 9.35% of income for tax filers who had an income of $200,000 or more). The average charitable contribution for this demographic is nearly $86,000.

Story continues

2. Logan, UT-ID

Despite the average charitable contribution being roughly $27,100 less than the No. 1 ranking city, nearly 70% tax filers earning $200,000 or more in Logan, UT-ID reported making charitable contributions. Compared to that salary range, the average charitable contribution of $58,775 equates to roughly 8.71% of a years income for this demographic.

3. Rome, GA

The Rome, Georgia metro area has the sixth-highest average charitable contribution filed on tax returns ($73,780) and makes up at least 7.20% of tax filers earning $200,000 or more (fourth-highest). Additionally, well over half of rich Americans in this area reported charitable donations on their tax returns (24th-highest).

4. Dalton, GA

Roughly one hour away from Rome, Georgia is the Dalton metro area, which ranks in the top 10 areas for two out of three metrics. First, Dalton ranks fifth-best for the percentage of income that charitable contributions typically make up for tax filers earning $200,000 or more (6.17%). Additionally, the area takes the 10th spot for the average charitable contribution for this demographic ($64,994).

5. St. George, UT

More than 65% of tax filers earning at least $200,000 or more in the St. George, UT metro area reported making charitable contributions (fourth-highest in the study). As a percentage of income, charitable contributions account for at least 5.61% of annual earnings (which works out to roughly $42,600 donated on average).

6. Columbus, GA-AL

In the Columbus, Georgia metro area, tax filers earning $200,00 or more use at least 5.31% of their income on charitable contributions. Of these residents in top income brackets, 56.71% of their tax returns reported charitable donations (23rd-highest) and the typical donation averages $48,231.

7. Salt Lake City, UT

Roughly 60% of tax returns for filers earning at least $200,000 report charitable contributions on average, the amount donated is just over $43,200. Compared to income, Salt Lake City, Utah metro area residents in this demographic are contributing at least 5.21% of their income to charity (16th-highest across the study).

8. Macon, GA

Similar to other top ranking metro areas, residents earning at least $200,000 in the Macon, Georgia metro area contribute 5.32% of their annual income to charity according to tax return reporting (12th-highest). Of all the tax returns for this group of earners, 58.06% of their filings include a charitable contribution (and that averages out to roughly $42,700 in donations).

9. Albany, GA

The Albany, Georgia metro area ranks in the top 15 for both the percentage of tax returns for filers in top income brackets that include a charitable contribution (58.16%) and the percentage of which these contributions make up their annual salary (5.43%). Similar to its No. 8 ranking neighbor, the average charitable contribution in Albany exceeds $42,000.

10. Ogden-Clearfield, UT

While the Ogden, Utah metro area has the lowest average charitable contribution of the top 10 ($38,611), the area ranks in the top six for both the percentage of tax returns among rich filers with this type of deduction ($68.03%) and the percentage of annual income that charitable contributions typically account for (at least 6%).

Data and Methodology

To find the places where rich Americans give the most to charity, SmartAsset considered tax filers with an adjusted gross income of $200,000 or more. For that demographic, we compared 384 metro areas across the following three metrics:

Charitable contributions as a percentage of income.

Percentage of tax returns with charitable donations.

Average charitable contribution amount.

Data for all metrics comes from the IRS and is for 2019, the most recent data available.

We ranked each metro area in every metric, giving an equal weighting to all three metrics. We then found each metro areas average ranking. The metro area with the best average ranking places first in our study while the area with the lowest average ranking places last.

Tips for Charitable Giving

Charitable contributions benefit others, but can also benefit you. Here's how charity tax deductions are defined, what qualifies for this type of deduction and how to claim it.

Learn how to incorporate charitable giving into your estate plans. You can leave behind a final contribution to support a cause by naming a charity as a beneficiary to your estate. Read more about naming a charity as a beneficiary and what to consider before finalizing your plans.

Work with a finance professional. SmartAssets free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If youre ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

Questions about our study? Contact press@smartasset.com.

Photo credit: iStock/UncleDmytro

The post Where Rich Americans Give the Most to Charity  2022 Edition appeared first on SmartAsset Blog.
bp lead

As Murray Auchincloss addressed BP colleagues on a hastily arranged video call this week, the finance chief tried his best to project calm.

The fundamentals have not changed, the Canadian insisted, just hours after his former boss Bernard Looney announced his shock resignation.

Auchincloss may well believe that, but many others in the industry view Looneys departure as nothing short of an earthquake.

Looney, 53, was the driving force behind BPs recent strategy shift to go green. He was also a workaholic and viewed  even by rivals  as a great communicator.

His downfall came swiftly on Tuesday when he was found to have hidden workplace romances from the board, despite having previously given assurances that everything had been declared last year.

In his wake, Auchincloss has stepped in as caretaker boss. While he is keen to project calm, Looneys messy departure has sparked instability.

It has led to speculation about whether BPs green plans will survive and whether the oil giant could now be vulnerable to a breakup or takeover.

BPs sheer size might be the best defence against the threat of opportunistic takeovers. Despite the shock departure, BPs shares have stayed relatively flat this week, valuing the company at 90bn.

Bernard Looney stepped down as chief executive on Tuesday night - Kamran Jebreili/AP

However, that is far less than arch-rival Shell, valued at 170bn, and US competitors Exxon Mobil and Chevron, worth $470bn (379bn) and $319bn respectively.

While it would be a significant undertaking for one of these supermajors to try and swallow BP, the industry has been built upon megamergers. BP itself has done plenty: it struck what at the time was the biggest industrial merger in history in 1998 when it bought US oil company Amoco for $48bn.

Adding to its vulnerability is the fact BP has underperformed rivals under Looney. While ExxonMobil, Chevron and Shells shares rose by 93pc, 56pc and 29pc respectively during Looneys tenure, his own companys stock rose by just 15pc, according to Bloomberg data.

Story continues

Analysts at RBC Capital Markets say Looneys bold intentions to go green did not always translate to good business decisions.

For example, the sale of fossil fuel assets such as BPs Alaskan oil operations  done partly to pay down debt and fund investments in renewables such as wind farms  were executed at poor points in the cycle and at relatively low valuations.

BP had been talked about as a possible takeover target even before Looneys departure. Michael Stiasny, head of UK equities at fund manager M&G, said in January he would not be shocked to see a US rival swoop for BP, while analysts at investment bank Citi made a similar case.

The biggest impediment to a full takeover is the national significance of BP. Any bidders would face tough scrutiny from the UK government.

Toughened up takeover rules introduced in 2021 allow the Government to block deals on national security grounds, with energy one of 17 sectors designated for special consideration.

If not a full takeover, could BP be broken up? The scale and web of links within the company means a meaningful breakup is unlikely but there is speculation that new management may look to offload some green assets as they pump the brakes on Looneys net zero strategy.

Looney committed BP to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050, building 70,000 electric car charging points, developing 50 gigawatts of renewable energy projects and reducing its oil and gas output by 40pc by the end of the decade.

We have got to change  and change profoundly, he said in a speech shortly after taking charge. We have to because the world is changing fast, and so are societys expectations of us.

The plan won cautious praise from climate activists but received much less enthusiasm from markets.

RBC said in a note to clients this week: We think investors have remained unconvinced on the strategic shift  and even following the most recent pivot earlier this year, BP has underperformed all supermajor peers since Bernard took over as chief executive.

In the face of scepticism, and after the Ukraine war sent oil and gas profits back into the stratosphere, Looney watered down BPs green commitments in February by reducing a target for cutting emissions by 2030.

Auchincloss may now step back with more focus on value and value growth in the core business, RBC analysts said.

He may follow the playbook of Italian oil giant Eni, which is in the process of spinning off its 10bn (8.6bn) renewables division into a new business called Plenitude.

Whats more likely is there will be a pivot back to fossil fuels, says Ashley Kelty, director of oil and gas research at Panmure Gordon. BP has adopted a far more aggressive green transition than its peers and that is likely to be reversed, I think. It could be a case of going back to the core business.

BP may decide to sell off various renewable assets including its wind farm business - NTB/REUTERS

BP may decide to sell off various renewable assets including its wind farm business in the US, which it acquired a 50pc stake in from Equinor in 2021, or the wind projects it has been developing in the North Sea, he says.

RBC said: Looking forward, the bottom line is that the world has clearly changed since Bernard took over. Views on ESG (environment, social and governance) and the energy transition have evolved dramatically, and the outlook for the commodity business has also.

One industry colleague says: The question on investors minds has always been how you extract value? One way of doing that would be to spin off the green energy business.

Another is to look at how fast you go on the transition  do you slow down, or speed it up?

I think the answer is pretty obviously going to be a slowdown. And the departure of Looney gives them an opportunity to do that.

Laurent Segalen, a clean energy investment banker who hosts a podcast, tweeted: Memo to successor more oil, less ESG, adding that the next chief executive should imitate Shell and behave.

Investors are likely to ask searching questions about the way the Looney affair has been handled by Helge Lund, BPs chairman, and the rest of the board. That too leaves the company on shaky ground when it comes to any takeover.

The board have hardly covered themselves in glory, the industry colleague says. Its hard to see BPs strategy surviving in its current form now Looney is gone.

Lund held a series of emergency meetings with investors on Thursday to try and steady the ship. His message was the same as Auchinclosss: business as usual. Only time will tell if this proves to be wishful thinking.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
(Bloomberg) -- Elon Musk picked Linda Yaccarino to be chief executive officer of X, the company formerly known as Twitter, with hope that the former NBCUniversal executive would convince advertisers who had stopped spending on the site to return. But so far, many major brands are remaining on the sidelines, and have already planned to deploy their budgets elsewhere during the holiday season  historically the most lucrative period for ad revenue.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The social media site has been scrambling to win back advertisers who fled after Musks chaotic takeover and controversial policy changes, taking more than half the company's annual revenue with them. But Yaccarino has run out of time to achieve the turnaround this year, according to multiple advertisers in charge of major brand spending.

Marketers normally lock in their holiday budgets by August, said Natasha Blumenkron, vice president of paid social at Tinuiti, a marketing firm. The last three months of the year have historically been Xs biggest revenue driver. It would take a big change and a big reason to believe for us to recommend that our advertisers are shifting budgets back there, she said. None of Tinuitis advertisers plan to buy ads on X during the holidays and instead are increasing spending on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and even Snapchat.

Twitter was a part of every plan, said Jason Harris, CEO of ad agency Mekanism, which works with clients including Alaska Airlines, Charles Schwab and Dropbox. Now brands, our clients, are pivoting away from it more towards stable platforms like TikTok or Reels or even YouTube Shorts, he said.

A representative for one large advertising agency, who declined to be named discussing internal metrics, estimates their spending on X is down by more than 60% from a year earlier.

Story continues

X didnt respond to a request for comment.

The company has been offering deals and incentives to try and draw back advertisers, but the enticements dont solve the biggest concern some of the marketers have with the platform: its reputation for being more permissive of harmful, abusive or racist posts since Musks takeover. Multiple ad agency representatives said they still have clients that have not returned to X because of concerns about such content appearing near their promotions.

Read More: Twitter Rise in Harmful Content a Concern to Advertisers

I believe few  if any  advertisers are actively considering investing more in advertising on Twitter, said Lou Paskalis, chief strategy officer at Ad Fontes Media. Even if they are, it would be at levels much lower than what they spent previously.

X also announced a series of moves in recent weeks that have irked advertisers, such as retiring popular types of ads and planning to remove the feature that lets users block others. Nearly a year into Musks tenure, advertisers are no longer surprised by his capacity for quick changes, and have become accustomed to having conversations about how to react, said Steve Susi, director of brand communication at Siegel & Gale. The notion of pivoting budgets away from Twitter is already familiar within those advertisers media rooms, he said.

Soon after Musks takeover, some advertising agencies, such as WPP, IPG and Omnicom, advised clients to pause or consider suspending their ads on the site. Then, when Yaccarino was appointed CEO at X in May, several advertisers said they would consider spending on the platform again. They hoped Yaccarino would help bring a sense of stability to X, clean up the content on the site, repair relationships with agencies and act as the de facto adult in the room.

X has added tools to improve brands control over where their ads appear, while mending a few relationships since Yaccarino joined, agencies say. But months into her appointment, some agencies say the optimism has faded.

I think everyone was pretty excited when she got hired. I think there was kind of a glimmer of hope, Harris said. I don't know if the optimism is over but I think it's definitely been penetrated pretty badly. And it's really bad for her brand, because it really looks like she doesn't have power, he said. Yaccarinos cheery posts on the site  in contrast to Musks bursts of anger or attacks on his critics  have sometimes added to that perception.

Read More: Yaccarino Takes Heat as X Pledge on Antisemitism Backfires

Some executives overseeing paid social media at advertising agencies said they had not heard from Yaccarino yet. They also felt her absence at this years Cannes Lions festival, a major industry event. Yaccarinos contract with NBCUniversal initially prevented her from working on deals that would conflict with her former employer, the New York Times reported. Yaccarino has been speaking with some brands and companies directly since she took over, including talent agencies CAA and UTA, along with Walt Disney Co., the Financial Times reported. Yaccarino is also having informal conversations with ad agency executives she knows personally.

On Thursday, Yaccarino announced that X was adding new members to its sales and agency teams, employees who would work directly with advertisers. When Musk lost or fired 75% of Xs staff, employees who had strong relationships with advertisers were heavily impacted, leaving many agencies without points of contact.

But ad revenue hasnt recovered, and is still down 60%, Musk acknowledged earlier this month, without citing a specific time period. Overall, working with X has not really changed too much since her coming on, said Stephen Brandow, vice president of paid social at Mediahub, which has worked with clients such as the NBA, Lyft and JetBlue, and still has some that advertise on X. But we can imagine that shes sort of coming into that role and probably takes a little while to onboard.

But others say it doesnt matter. X is no longer relevant or worth the trouble, said Marc Beckman, CEO of DMA United, which has worked with clients such as Pepsi, Tom Ford and Warner Bros. Its not really an area where weve been encouraging our clients to go.

(Corrects spelling of Marc Beckmans name in final paragraph.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
With the November election approaching, two candidates for the 65th House District debated at the University of Mary Washington on Wednesday night, addressing such key issues as education, health care, womens rights, crime and the economy, while also taking jabs at each other.

Lee Peters III, a captain in the Stafford County Sheriffs Office and 12-year veteran of the Marine Corps, is the Republican candidate.

Joshua Cole, a pastor, former president of the Stafford County NAACP and former 28th House District delegate, is the Democratic candidate.

The candidates are vying for the redrawn 65th House District, which includes all of Fredericksburg, four precincts in Spotsylvania and 10 in Stafford.

The debate was moderated by UMW Professor of Political Science and Center for Leadership and Media Studies Director Stephen Farnsworth. Questions were sent in by the audience and asked by UMW Professor of Political Science Rosalyn Cooperman, WFVA Radio News Director Ted Schubel and The Free Lance-Star reporter Adele Uphaus.

The debate started with an edge with Coles opening statement, when he highlighted his key issues (womens rights, affordable higher education, drug costs, supporting law enforcement) and topped that off by telling the crowd his opponent was handpicked with the primary reason being to advance Gov. Glenn Youngkin and the push to outlaw abortion.

The governor has endorsed Peters.

Cole said Youngkin has poured money into Peters campaign, meaning he would have to answer to the governor and other Republican leaders, not the people.

Peters also said he raised three daughters, so he understands the importance of womens rights.

Peters also fired back in his opening statement, disputing Coles statement of support for law enforcement. Peters said the former delegate pushed for war during the local 2020 police protests and supported defunding law enforcement.

Cole said he never supported defunding law enforcement.

Peters said he was asked to run for the House seat because he is the right person with the right background.

The Republican candidate later took a shot at Cole for an incident in which the former delegate was reprimanded for spending campaign funds on haircuts and suits. Cole said he learned from that situation and repaid the money.

Asked about the most important issue with education, Cole said funding is important. The governor, he emphasized, lost $200 million in education funding. He said thats the opposite of what is needed with teachers leaving the area and students having to use trailers as classrooms.

Peters said schools need to be fully funded and leaders need to make sure they are safe, primarily with resource officers. School safety proved to be a recurring theme for Peters during the debate. He said Cole supported removing police from schools, something Cole denied.

Another education question focused on Youngkins stance regarding the controversial issue of parental rights, especially when it comes to books in school libraries.

Cole said the issue is moot because parents have had rights regarding what their children learn in public schools for a long time. He said Republicans are attacking public schools in order to promote private schools.

Peters said the movement is subjective. He added that parents should be involved in their childs education and that it is not a teachers job to raise their students. He said the movement is about parents having their say.

Asked about the teacher shortage, Cole said teachers are frustrated and tired and they need the autonomy to teach without political pressures.

Peters said teachers dont feel safe, emphasizing that their hands are tied when it comes to dealing with disruptive students for fear of being charged with a crime. Disruptive students, he said, need to be put in the right place so all students can learn.

On abortion, Peters said he supports a ban on the procedure after 15 weeks of pregnancy, something he said 61% of Virginians support. He said he supports what the people want and called the 15-week ban the best compromise.

Cole said a ban is a ban is a ban, adding that the choice should be between a woman and her doctor. He also said that while out on the campaign trail Republican women say they support womens rights on abortion because many of them remember what life was like before Roe v. Wade.

Another question focused on affordable housing and rentals in the area.

Cole said he supported programs for affordable housing while a delegate, adding that one approach is to make sure developments include a percentage of affordable housing. He added that affordable housing to him means homes that working families can afford, not low-rent housing.

The candidates were asked their stances on a transportation authority, an entity that collects tax revenues for localities to be invested in those areas for transportation projects. Hampton Roads, Richmond and Northern Virginia have transportation authorities.

Peters said a transportation authority can be an important tool. He criticized Cole on the issue, saying when his opponent was delegate he supported the Hampton Roads transportation authority, taking money from the Fredericksburg area.

Cole countered that he introduced a bill in 2021 to create a local transportation authority, but Republicans blocked it.

On a question about mental health, Cole praised Youngkins behavioral health care initiative to address a mental health crisis and said he would support that program.

Peters also supports the program.

In a question about data centers  facilities that house computer servers that power and store data for the cloud network  Cole noted that data centers are revenue and job generators. The issue, he added, is something local jurisdictions handle, with legislators helping make sure the right choices are made.

Peters also noted the revenue potential, but said data centers are new and leaders need to determine the benefits of them.

The candidates were asked about their stance on election integrity and whether they would accept the results in the November election should they lose.

Both candidates praised the election process in the state and locally and said they would accept the results if they lose.

Crime was another issue brought up in the debate, with the candidates asked if violent crime is increasing in the district.

Cole said violent crime has increased under Youngkin and that while delegate he supported legislation to address crime.

Peters disagreed, saying violent crime rates havent increased. He added that legislation Cole supported took away police powers, leading to such problems as increased fatal crashes.

Cole disputed that take, saying traffic law legislation he supported removed certain offenses from being primary offenses that allow police to stop a driver.

Regarding the economy, the candidates were asked about the importance of the states rainy day reserve fund.

Both candidates said having a reserve fund is important.

Peters said economists can determine what is needed and legislators can determine the responsible way to handle any surplus.

Cole said the reserve fund proved crucial for Virginia during the pandemic and it was thanks to Democrats.

UMW will host a second debate, slated for Sept. 27, for three candidates running in the 27th Senate District, which includes all of Fredericksburg, 31 precincts in Stafford County and 12 precincts in Spotsylvania County.
As data center developer interest spreads across the state, Caroline County is yet another community in the Fredericksburg region preparing for and dealing with proposals involving the technology that powers cloud computing.

Proposals on data centers have popped up in Spotsylvania, Stafford, King George, Louisa and Fauquier counties.

Caroline also has drawn interest from data center developers, and the county has proposed changes to its comprehensive plan in order to handle data centers.

Data centers are warehouse-like buildings filled with computer servers and hardware that powers and stores data for the IT infrastructure. The facilities, often at least two stories tall, require large amounts of water for cooling and consume massive amounts of electricity, which requires most sites to include power sub stations.

Data center growth was spurred by a Virginia program that entices data center development via grants, which require matching funds from localities. The Fredericksburg area is popular because of the fiber-optic lines that run along Interstate 95.

During its Tuesday meeting, the Caroline Board of Supervisors heard a first reading on proposed comprehensive plan amendments to address a proposed Research and Technology Park, which would include data centers.

The comprehensive plan amendment addresses typical issues with data centers: setbacks and buffers from surrounding properties, noise, building heights, lighting, open space on the property and stormwater management, among other issues.

Some supervisors felt building heights (up to 100 feet) were too tall and wondered if the noise limits were strict enough.

Supervisor Jeffery Sili questioned inclusions of the numerous industrial uses and such things as laboratories, research, printing plants, restaurants, child care and hotels in the amendment.

The board addressed another proposed comprehensive plan amendment connected to a technology campus and data centers, this one to designate the Carmel Church Station area as an urban development area and to establish it as a planned innovation, research and technology development area.

In June, the Board of Supervisors voted against the amendment. But the amendment was brought back before the board for reconsideration on Tuesday.

The area of focus is along Jericho Road, identified by technology developers for facilities, according to the county.

Six residents spoke against the amendment during public comment time. They said residents in the Carmel Church area dont want data center development in that area for a host of reasons and suggested the county wasnt being transparent.

A speaker representing the National Parks Conservation Association said the amendment would allow data centers to be built across the North Anna River from park service property, something he doesnt support.

One woman said residents havent been included in the process. She, along with two other speakers, questioned the ethics of county officials in bringing the issue back for a vote.

Caroline resident Kevin Collins said he came to talk about why the proposed changes to the Carmel Church area do not fit with its rural and agricultural character, but said it was important to talk about decisions by county administration and planning staff that have left residents puzzled and profoundly unsettled.

He said people are wondering what has changed since the board denied the proposed amendment in June.

In the past month, he said, agendas have been amended at the last minute, data centers and comprehensive plan amendments have been discussed during a work session for transportation and documents on Caroline proposals not presented locally have been presented in other jurisdictions.

Collins said he felt compelled to shed light on what seems to be a hurried, secretive process, with a hint of deception that is undermining the comprehensive plan that was developed with roughly 30,000 Caroline County residents interest in mind, not the interest of a single business entity.

Board members later discussed the proposed amendment and also heard a presentation from a Northern Virginia data center developer about the facilities.

Supervisor Sili made a motion to deny revisiting the amendment. The motion failed, 4-2. Sili and Jeffrey Black voted to deny bringing the amendment back before the board. Chairman Floyd Thomas and Supervisors Clayton Forehand, Nancy Long and Reginald Underwood voted against the motion, meaning the proposed amendment will be brought back to the board for reconsideration.

The board voted to hold a community information session before addressing the amendment at a future meeting.

In another data center-focused item, the board approved a public hearing on a comprehensive plan amendment for the Mattameade Growth Area, a planned data center development related to a proposal in Spotsylvania.

Amazon has filed an application for the Mattameade development, which bifurcates Spotsylvania and Caroline counties.

In Spotsylvania, the property is off of Orrock Road, totaling approximately 158 acres. The site would serve as a utility and power source for the Caroline development, which calls for about 4.5 million square feet of data center warehouses to be built on more than 900 acres.

The Caroline growth area comprises 1,385 acres, extending east along Stonewall Jackson Road then south to the Matta River.

According to the county, to support data center and industrial development in this area public water and sewer utilities will be provided in conjunction with Spotsylvania as part of an economic development initiative, which the County has partnered with Spotsylvania County, The Fredericksburg Regional Alliance, the Commonwealth of Virginia and Rappahannock Electrical Cooperative.
Fredericksburg City Council on Monday expressed interest in reexamining the way it incentivizes historic preservation through tax exemption programs.

Kate Schwartz, the citys historic resources planner, presented the results of a report on economic incentives and spot blight/demolition by neglect prepared by Dan Becker, owner of the historic preservation consulting firm Heritage Arts, to Council at a work session Monday evening.

Becker was hired by the city last fall to study existing historic preservation economic development tools and spot blight provisions and provide recommendations for strengthening them.

City Council in its 2036 Vision Statement identified being a proven leader in historic preservation as one of eight priorities, yet the city has lost several significant historic structures to demolition over the past 15-20 years for a variety of reasons, Becker notes in the report.

Broadly, the report recommends that the city make the historic preservation goal more prominent on its website and that it consolidate information about preservation incentives in one central location. It also recommends providing more technical support to property owners applying for incentives.

The report found that existing economic incentives are underutilized. Over the past 10 years, there have been only 25 applications for the rehabilitation tax exemption program  11 residential and 14 commercial.

Two of the property owners canceled their planned rehabilitations and six other applications expired. One project is still in progress.

The report notes that property owners are unaware that a tax exemption program for historic preservation exists and also that the financial benefit is too low.

The program permits property owners who undertake rehabilitation of a qualifying residential building  one that is in the Old and Historic Fredericksburg District or listed on the National Register of Historic Places  to receive a partial exemption from real estate tax increases.

However, as it is currently structured, an owner would save only 4% of a $50,000 investment  or $1,985  over seven years.

Under state statute, the city could exempt up to 100% of the assessed property value increase for a period of up to 15 years. That would result in a total savings of 13% of a $50,000 investment, or $6,675, the report found.

The city could also choose a different framework permitted by state law and could exempt up to 50% of the cost of rehabilitation, as long as it doesnt exempt the total value of the structure.

The owner would save 40% of a $50,000 investment under that arrangement, the report estimated.

The report also recommends that the city reinvigorate a revolving zero loan interest program for historic properties that was established and funded by Fredericksburg Main Street and the Economic Development Authority, but has been nonactive.

The city should also use staff resources to help property owners combine local, state and federal tax credits for historic preservation, the report recommends.

Regarding spot blight/demolition by neglect, the report found that the city has been relying on a regulatory approach and that it should switch to an incentivizing approach.

We have the sticks but not the carrots, Schwartz said.

The report recommends developing and strengthening partnerships with the Historic Fredericksburg Foundation Inc. and neighborhood associations to monitor historic resources for signs of deterioration, and making code amendments to better define expectations for building maintenance and update criteria for identifying economic hardship.

In addition, the report recommends that the city commission a historic preservation economic impact study to determine the economic value of its historic resources.

Council on Monday praised the report.

This is an excellent report that gives us something to put our teeth into, and also validates that were doing the right things, said Mayor Mary Katherine Greenlaw.

City Manager Tim Baroody said staff will come back to council this fall with a plan for putting the reports recommendations into action.

Also at the work session, council agreed to authorize a standing preservation advisory group, which will meet quarterly and work to create and assess benchmarks for preservation goals, advise council on preservation policies and serve as a resource for city staff and commissions.

Membership in the advisory group will include representatives from the National Park Service, the University of Mary Washingtons Department of Historic Preservation, Historic Fredericksburg Foundation, the Fredericksburg Area Museum; an archaeological consultant; and members of the citys architectural review board and City Council.

The advisory group will begin its work in 2024.
The Fremont City Council on Tuesday, Sept. 12, officially approved the citys biennial budget for the fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025, completing the approval of the budget about three weeks before the state-mandated deadline of Sept. 30.

Council members had been intensely focused on the budget since about mid-August, with the first of what would be four meetings about the biennial budget being hosted on Aug. 22. Subsequent discussion and explanation of the budget occurred on Aug. 29, Sept. 5 and on Sept. 12 when the council voted 6-0 to finalize the document.

Not present for Tuesdays meeting were City Council President Mark Jensen and Ward 2 Council Member Glen Ellis. Ellis has missed multiple meetings since July due to what he told the Tribune was a personal and family health issue that had required him to travel and not be available for meetings.

There was little debate and discussion about the budget on Tuesday aside from a question from Ward 4 Council Member Sally Ganem about why no salary had been set in the budget for a newly created zoning administrator job.

City Human Resources Director Jennifer McDuffee told Ganem and the council members present that setting an official salary for the new zoning administrator job was not possible as the city was still researching the issue and exploring what the typical average salary for such a job is in Nebraska.

Former council member Brad Yerger spoke during the public comment about the third and final reading of the budget, reiterating several points hes told the council in prior meetings before Tuesday. Among his concerns were the re-introduction of an assistant city administrator job in the next two-year budget.

There has been no assistant city administrator at the city since January 2022 when current Fremont Police Capt. Shane Wimer was relieved of his job as assistant city administrator and reverted back to solely working at the Fremont Police Department. Wimer had since 2017 dually worked as both a police lieutenant and the citys assistant city administrator.

Following Wimers official removal from the position in January 2022, current City Administrator Jody Sanders was named as interim city administrator and the job of utilities general manager was split off from the city administrator role into its own job. The moves followed the sudden resignation of longtime city administrator Brian Newton.

Yerger also advocated for the removal of a planned additional full-time library staff employee as well as the plans to add an additional community services officer to the Fremont Police Department.

The council disregarded Yergers requests and voted on the budget to include all the new positions he opposed.

The adopted budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year is $224.87 million, and for the 2024-2025 fiscal, the total budget amount is $248.56 million.

On Sept. 5, the city council also voted 7-0 to approve a property tax request that, will cause its tax rate to be $0.278497 per $100 of assessed value.

Among the projects in the next two-year budget are a new Streets Department and Fleet Maintenance building, which is scheduled for 2024, and comes in at a proposed cost of $12 million. That cost, Sanders noted on Aug. 29, is more modest than what had been thought would be a $16 million price tag several months ago.

The budget finally approved on Tuesday has numerous key public safety expenses in it, including planning and design for the two new fire stations that are expected to be constructed in the 2025-2026 fiscal year or after.

(The) design (and) engineering for the two new fire stations is budgeted for the second year of the budget, (fiscal year) 2024-2025, with construction happening in both the next two years (fiscal year) 2025-2026 and (fiscal year) 2026-2027, Sanders stated in an email to the Tribune on Sept. 6.

The new Fremont Police Station  which has been discussed for at least 10 years with no action  is also slated in the two-year budget, with a price tag of $17.250 million and construction hoped to begin by September 2025.

Ward 3 Council Member James Vaughan could not contain his excitement over the projects being funded, saying This is probably the most exciting list of projects on a budget in city history.

Other proposed projects in the budget include: the Broad Street reconstruction project; parks and recreation amenities such as new bathrooms and new trails; the soon-to-be operational Fremont Transit Program; completion of the Keene Memorial Library expansion and renovation  slated for January; the 23rd Street corridor traffic signal repair and improvement project; a new Streets Department and Fleet Maintenance building; flood mitigation and open-ditch rehabilitation; additional transformers for the Fremont electrical utility service; and numerous other projects.

The next council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 26, at the council chambers on the second floor of the Fremont Municipal Building, 400 E. Military Ave.

Before the budget was approved in its final vote and reading, the council approved in a 6-0 vote pay raises for the Fremont Police Department certified law enforcement staff who are members of the Fraternal Order of Police bargaining unit-union.

Under the new deal, certified law enforcement officers will get a comparable pay raise in fiscal year 2022-2024, then beginning on Oct. 1, 2024, get a 3% pay raise followed by a third pay raise of 2.5% in April 2025.

Police officers will now be allowed to live up to 30 miles outside the Fremont city limits and will receive more uniform and body armor monetary allowances to deal with the rising costs of both police uniforms as well as the enhanced police body armor, which has increased McDuffee told the council, by as much as 50% in the past few years.
The City of Fremonts $1.35 million legal defense fund intended to be used if Fremonts controversial illegal immigration rental ordinance is ever challenged in court will not be tapped into for other budgetary needs, City Administrator Jody Sanders told council members on Tuesday night.

The fund, which was accumulated due to a special tax on Fremont residents from 2011-2014, is intended for use only if the city is sued over its law barring the renting of housing to illegal and undocumented immigrants.

Concerns had been raised about the future of the more than $1.35 million fund after City Council President Mark Jensen made a veiled reference to repurposing the funds during a discussion of the citys biennial budget at a special meeting hosted on Tuesday, Sept. 5.

On Tuesday, Sept. 12, when the final and third reading of the citys two-year budget had been approved, a second item detailing commitment of general funds for budget use drew public criticism, because of rumors about the possible repurposing of the illegal immigration defense fund.

The staff report on the agenda item stated the following about the illegal immigration law, which is technically city Ordinance 5165. The funds were not appropriated by the city council at the time for anything other than defense, implementation and other costs around the ordinance, the staff report notes.

A representative from the group, Win it Back, a conservative political activist organization committed to responsible government, and several other Fremont residents questioned whether or not the illegal immigration defense fund would be used for something else other than defense of the controversial city law.

Doug Wittman, who said he was involved with Win it Back, told the council in public comment that the legal defense funds were intended for one purpose  both implementing and, if needed, defending the ordinance in court  and should remain committed to that purpose or be returned to the public.

I think it is fine to take this money away, because it appears (the ordinance is settled), but I think it should be given back to the people. I think this money should not just be put in the general fund, Wittman said. I know youd love that. And maybe a lot of people would love that, to find some money and use it for projects that are legitimate. Some of us feel that money should rightfully go back to the people who put it in.

Fremont resident Gene Schultz also spoke about the funds, telling the council that with thousands of illegal aliens crossing the border in recent months the issue of possibly defending the citys illegal immigration ordinance could arise.

Where will they end up? We dont know. Taxes were collected because the city said, if you have this (immigration) ordinance, it will need money to be implemented and defended. That fund now seems to be in jeopardy. How many times has it been robbed already? Schultz asked. If you insist on rolling the dice that the ordinance wont need to be defended as time goes by, lets give the money back to the citizens where it came from. That seems the fair thing to do.

Sanders stressed to the council and attendees that no, the $1.35 million was not going to be utilized for any other expenditure unless the city council hears, debates and votes to approve a repurposing of the money.

At this time, there is no plan to change anything with the immigration ordinance, Sanders said. It will be just like it has been for the last 12 years, as shown on our audit for committed for ordinance enforcement.

The citys illegal immigration ordinance was mostly written and crafted by current Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach more than 10 years ago. As part of his work with the city on the ordinance, he had an agreement to be retained as legal counsel for the city to defend Fremont against any legal challenges to the ordinance if they arose in court.

In early May 2023, the city council vigorously debated that contract with Kobach, eventually voting to end the agreement immediately. Kobach had been charging the city $10,000 per year to remain on retainer in the event of a lawsuit that required his services, however he had not been paid since December 2020.

Ward 1 Council Member Paul Von Behren then asked Sanders for clarification on the issue and the use of the funds.

So we are not advocating to committing these reserves to general spending? The $1.35 million  so, that stays in the fund? Von Behren asked.

Sanders said, Yes.

Ward 4 Council Member Sally Ganem said she opposed repurposing the illegal immigration defense funds.

I think when (the city) stopped paying our lawyer the fees, that money would be kept for the defense fund if we needed it, Ganem said. I would not be able to ever support moving the intent of that funding to something else at this time.

Von Behren then requested to enter into the city record an emailed letter from Kobach. After the citys legal counsel Travis Jacott read the letter, the council voted 6-0 to accept the letter from Kobach and enter it into the official record.

It has been alleged here that Kobach is not eligible to represent the City of Fremont. So, I had contacted him and communicated it to the council before, but it keeps being challenged. I asked him to make a statement, Von Behren explained of his email correspondence with Kobach.

In the letter, sent by Kobach to Von Behren via a private Google Mail email account not attached to his job as Kansas attorney general, Kobach states that Kansas law does not prohibit him from engaging in private law practice and he was available to represent Fremont if the need arose.

Councilman Von Behren, in response to your question, Kansas law does not prohibit an attorney general from maintaining a private law practice in his personal capacity, Kobach wrote in the email. Nor are there any other constraints preventing me from assisting Fremont in the defense of the immigration ordinance.

The Tribune emailed Kobachs private email seeking confirmation of the letter, but had not received a reply as of press time.

When the council voted 5-3 to cancel the citys contract with Kobach in May, Von Behren was adamantly opposed to the decision, saying he believed the city needed to keep Kobach on board in case the immigration ordinance is ever challenged.

Von Behren claimed during the early May meeting that there are only six known attorneys in the nation who focus on what is termed immigration pre-emption law, and Kobach is one of them.

Our most likely opponent (in a lawsuit) is the federal government, Von Behren opined during the May meeting. They will wear you down simply from persistence and power.

Von Behren, Ellis and Sookram voted no on the bid to end the contact, and all three wanted to retain Kobachs services. The city did not pay Kobach the $10,000 fee in 2021 or 2022, however Kobach did submitt a bill to the city seeking a payment for what he is claimed to be owed.

Ganem was one of the more vociferous council members opposed to Kobach representing the city while he was also the Kansas attorney general, stating during the May meeting that, No attorney general should be moonlighting as the attorney for a city in another state. This contract needs to be terminated.
A little girl named, Parker, definitely sees the bright side of life.

The child attends the Early Learning Center at First Lutheran Church in Fremont. She goes to the church daycare in the morning and its preschool in the afternoon.

Whenever Grandma Karna Dam picks her up, she asks Parker to tell her two things she enjoyed about her day.

One day, Parker had a question. She wondered if she could mention two things from school and two things from real school.

School is daycare and real school is preschool in her mind, Dam told the Tribune.

Whatever a child calls it, the ELC has served more than 400 children since it opened its doors in 2018. The center observed its fifth anniversary in August and continues to serve children ages 6 weeks to 5 years and their families.

The idea for the center began in 2017 when the Revs. Marty and Steph Tollefson, then pastors of First Lutheran, talked with member Nick Vrba about how unused space at the church could be used to impact the community.

We thought starting a daycare would be a great resource for the community, use our empty space and also use it to serve Gods kingdom, Vrba said in information from the church.

They wanted the daycare to be a ministry.

We wanted to impact the lives of children and families, Vrba said. Many kids dont learn or hear about God. Some dont go to church at all.

They thought a Christian-based daycare would be a great way to impact the lives of kids during the week. The church also wanted to build on the good reputation its preschool has had during the last several years and take it to a new level, Vrba said.

Vrba started a business plan.

We secured grants, donations and funding sources to open, he said in church information. The center opened with no debt and a strong cash reserve. To this day, the center is on strong financial footing.

Organizers spent time making sure the center wouldnt be a typical daycare. They wanted kids to learn about God, prayer and worship along with skills like cooking and art.

Jill Norenberg was the initial director and assisted in getting paperwork completed and the proper credentials to open.

Mindy Olson was hired as director and has been with ELC since a month after it opened. Emily Poppe, assistant director, helped start the ELC in the summer of 2018.

On an average day, the ELC serves about 65 kids a day, Olson said in church information.

One of my favorite things about being in education is seeing the uniqueness of each child, Olson said. Every child has their own story to tell and its our pleasure to be part of it.

Olson told the Tribune something she enjoys about working with the children.

It always starts my day off the right way when I see the kids coming into the school and theyre skipping through the hallway to get to their class, because theyre so excited to be with us, Olson said. It just makes my day.

Olson said the center has a very low turnover in staff.

We are very fortunate to have such a dedicated staff, Olson said in church information. I see them pour their hearts into the kids each day and I feel so blessed to have such kind and passionate teachers with us.

Dam, who serves on the ELC board, said Olson and Poppe do an excellent job of ensuring staff are properly trained. Besides Parker, Dams 2-year-old grandson, Auggie, also attends the daycare.

Dam said she appreciates how manners  like saying please and thank you are reinforced  and that friendships are created among the children.

I like that they are not placed in front of a television, but that hands-on learning is the primary focus, activities that help them learn and develop new interests, Dam added.

Olson said the center offers a chapel, prayer time and related spiritual activities to help kids grow in their faith. She describes the center as a ministry that is an undertaking of faith and can be successful only to the degree that it is blessed by God.

We hope to continue to guide children and families to do the Lords work, Olson told the Tribune.

Dam pointed out challenges involved in childcare.

I am well aware we need more local childcare and that keeping childcare affordable is a huge challenge, Dam said. I hope that the future can shed a new light and some relief on these challenges.

Dam notes how the center benefits the community.

ELC has grown so much over the past five years, she said. With each year, they add new and exciting pieces to their program. I want to see growth and change continue to create new opportunities for children and families who attend ELC.
Emirates and Maldivian have announced an interline partnership, enabling Emirates customers to access 16 popular holiday destinations in the Maldives beyond Male.

The agreement follows on from last years signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two airlines, to explore opportunities for mutual cooperation.

The interline agreement will create more options for Emirates customers when travelling to the Maldivian archipelago, utilising both carriers services and networks on a single ticket while also enhancing the customer experience throughout the journey, said a statement.

Customers travelling to exotic island destinations in the Maldives will now be able to reap the benefit of flying into more popular holiday spots after connecting easily and seamlessly from Velana International Airport in the North Male atoll. Emirates passengers will link to Maldivians services to reach a choice of domestic points for their island getaway, it said.

From September 15, travel itineraries can be booked for flights effective immediately.

Emirates customers can fly to airports in a selection of the popular atolls via Male including Dharavandhoo Island (DRV), Faresmathoda Airport (FMT), Funadhoo Airport (FND), Fuvahmulak Island Airport (FVM), Gan Island International (GAN), Kooddoo Island (GKK), Hanimaadhoo Island Airport (HAQ), Kulhudhuffushi Airport (HDK), Hoarafushi Airport (HRF), Kaadedhdhoo Island Airport (KDM), Kadhdhoo Island (KDO), Madivaru Airport (LMV), Maafaru International Airport (NMF), Maavarulu Airport (RUL), Thimarafushi Airport (TMF), and Ifuru (IFU).

Furthermore, customers spending their holidays at other resort islands can also enjoy the convenience of travelling to the closest point in the interline network and are within reach of their final destination with only a short ride, by seaplane or boat. -TradeArabia News Service
One person died in a crash involving two vehicles southwest of Waterloo Wednesday morning.

At 8:04 a.m., Douglas County sheriffs deputies went to the crash that occurred along West Center Road just west of 264th Street. Along with members of the Valley Fire Department, the deputies found that a gray Jeep and a white Chevrolet Impala were involved in a head-on collision.

A preliminary investigation determined the Jeep was traveling east on West Center Road when it crossed the center line and struck the westbound Impala. The Jeep rolled and the driver was ejected from the vehicle. The Impala went into the north ditch.

First responders found the driver of the Impala pinned inside the vehicle and dead at the scene. The driver of the Jeep was airlifted to the Nebraska Medical Center.

The Sheriffs Office is withholding the deceased drivers identity until family has been notified.

The investigation is ongoing. West Center Road was closed at 264th Street and Campanile Road.
An RC-135W Rivet Joint reconnaissance jet from the Offutt-based 55th Wing declared an emergency while operating over the Persian Gulf on Monday and made an early landing at its deployed base in Qatar, Air Force officials confirmed.

The pilot  flying with the call sign OMAHA77  reported a flight-control malfunction shortly after taking off from Al Udeid Air Base at 7:30 p.m. in the Middle East (11:30 a.m. Central time).

The crew promptly declared an in-flight emergency and followed standard operating procedures to ensure the safety of all on board, said Col. Michael Andrews, a spokesman for U.S. Air Forces Central Command, in a statement.

Andrews said the plane landed safely at Al Udeid at 10 p.m. local time (2 p.m. in Nebraska) with no injuries to any of the 24 crew members or damage to the aircraft.

He said the plane taxied to the parking area under its own power. The cause of the malfunction is under investigation.

In air-traffic control recordings captured by plane spotters on LiveATC.net and posted to social media, the OMAHA77 pilot can be heard saying Need immediate direct Al Udeid, please.

An air traffic controller in Bahrain gives the RC-135 crew directions toward the Qatari air base, which is less than 100 miles from Bahrain.

The controller asks the crew if they have a flight control issue.

Affirm, OMAHA77, the pilot replies.

OK, what assistance do you need on the ground? Anything? the controller says.

Were going to need to reduce our gross weight. Weve got the aircraft under control at this time, the OMAHA77 pilot says  implying that, for a time, possibly it was not.

The air traffic control exchanges suggest the RC-135 pilot was having difficulty steering the four-engine jet. At one point, the controller directs the pilot to tighten a turn in order to avoid crossing a border into restricted airspace.

Uh, were trying here, the pilot responds.

Asked again a short time later, OMAHA77s pilot says, No, unable any more turn.

The RC-135 had been flying near an Air Force air refueling tanker with the call sign PYTHON15. Its not clear whether the Rivet Joint had already refueled, but the pilot said he was carrying enough fuel for eight hours flying and needed to dump about 35,000 pounds of fuel before landing.

The tanker was flying at 28,000 feet, 2,000 feet higher than the RC-135. The controller asked the tanker pilot whether he wanted to accompany OMAHA77 back to Qatar.

We just want to stay out of Omahas way, the pilot said. Anything we can do, if we need to help them.

Boeing RC-135W Rivet Joint (OMAHA77) talking to Bahrain Control (ATC) with a flight control issue over the Persian Gulf. They were attempting or refueled with KC-135 (PYTHON15) @flightradar24 showed them squawking 7700 (International emergency code). Audio via @liveatc -OBBI feed pic.twitter.com/CqV6Zu0qnI  Thenewarea51 (@thenewarea51) September 11, 2023

Rivet Joint jets are equipped with sensors that monitor electronic signals for a distance of several hundred miles. They carry a team of foreign-language translators who are able to listen to voice broadcasts and radio communications and quickly provide intelligence to U.S. troops on the ground.

The 55th Wing has 17 Rivet Joints in its fleet, all headquartered at Offutt Air Force Base. They deploy frequently to England, Greece, and Okinawa as well as Qatar. Earlier this year, the 55th also established a detachment at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska.

The RC-135 that experienced the malfunction (No. 62-4138) was delivered to the Air Force as a transport plane in 1962. It was converted into a reconnaissance platform in 1967 and has been assigned to the 55th Wing at Offutt since 1981.

The plane and its crew have been deployed to Al Udeid with the 763rd Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron since July 29.

Photos: Offutt runway opens after 18-month reconstruction 100122-owh-new-offuttjets-pic-cm004.jpg offuttjets-pic-cm006.jpg Offutt runway reopens after 18-month runway reconstruction. 100122-owh-new-offuttjets-pic-cm007.jpg 100122-owh-new-offuttjets-pic-cm005.jpg offuttjets-pic-cm003.jpg 100122-owh-new-offuttjets-pic-cm002.jpg 100122-owh-new-offuttjets-pic-cm001.jpg offuttjets-pic-cm008.jpg offuttjets-pic-cm009.jpg offuttjets-pic-cm010.jpg
COVID-19 cases are eking up in Colorado, but local infectious disease doctors arent worried  yet.

The reason?

This isnt 2020.

While three years ago infectious disease experts were grappling to understand how the novel coronavirus was transmitted, today health officials have a number of tools in their arsenal: COVID-19 vaccines and boosters, prior infections that can ward off severe disease and therapeutic treatments.

We certainly have come a long way, said Dr. Heather Young, an infectious disease specialist at Denver Health. The illnesses that our patients are seeing is less severe with all of the advances.

As of Monday, 115 Coloradans were hospitalized with COVID-19, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment data. Just six weeks ago, there were 56 hospitalizations statewide.

Cases of COVID-19 have been increasing since the end of June, with a larger increase late last month, Annemarie Harper, a Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment spokesperson, said in an email to The Denver Gazette.

Harper added: This could be due to a number of factors, including emerging variants, changes in behavior and activities such as return to school, waning immunity, or other seasonal factors.

To put both of those numbers into perspective, at the pandemics peak 1,847 Coloradans were hospitalized during the first week of December 2020.

The rise in Colorado cases has mirrored what has been happening across the U.S. as the nation closes in on the time of year the number of respiratory illnesses rise.

The week of Sept. 2, nearly 19,000 Americans were hospitalized with COVID-19 nationwide, up from roughly 6,400 the first week in July, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

There is more COVID in the community now than there was several months ago, said Dr. Michael Roshon, an infectious disease specialist with CommonSpirit Health, formerly Centura Health.

But were talking about overall very low numbers compared to when we were in the dark days of the pandemic.

At the height of the pandemic, CommonSpirit Health had about 300 COVID-19 patients hospitalized.

That number is in the 20s now.

I dont think that were going to see the same levels that we saw the last few years with COVID, Roshon said.

If CommonSpirit started to see 100 hospitalizations per day, that would be a concern, Roshon said.

To date, there have been 15,340 deaths attributed to COVID-19 in Colorado and 1.7 million infections.

Im optimistic

The uptick in cases also follows what happened in the southern hemisphere, which includes most of South America, roughly half of Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

While the flu season is typically from October through May in the U.S. it hits the Southern Hemisphere earlier from March to September. Experts often look to the flu activity in the Southern Hemisphere for clues about what could happen in the U.S.

Cases of COVID-19  which health experts say is here to stay as a seasonal respiratory illness like influenza  rose first, and then flu infections.

Were starting to see that signal now with all of the case numbers going up, said Dr. Larissa Pisney, medical director of Infection Prevention for UCHealth.

The flu virus constantly changes, so vaccines are updated each season.

With the flu vaccine in the Southern Hemisphere is reducing the risk of hospitalizations by 52%, local health officials said they were encouraged the U.S. could see a more normal season.

Im optimistic were going to prevent a lot of severe disease from it, Young said.

And now with a vaccine for RSV, there is no talk of the confluence of respiratory illnesses officials had warned of in previous flu seasons. Historically RSV, like the flu, typically spreads in the fall and winter months.

Health officials described the triple threat of respiratory illnesses  COVID-19, flu and RSV, a respiratory disease that wreaked havoc among Colorados children last year  as a tri-demic.

COVID-19 measures  practicing hand hygiene, masking and social distancing  early in the pandemic had kept the flu and RSV at bay before returning with a vengeance.

We have our fingers crossed that we wont have the overlap and confluence, Pisney said.

If the public continues to embrace vaccines.

Everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated for the flu, according to officials. Those 65 years of age and older, who have comorbidities or are immune suppressed such as cancer patients, should get vaccinated for COVID-19.

New RSV vaccines are available for adults 60 and older, infants and pregnant individuals.

For us, we stay concerned about respiratory viruses, said Roshon, with CommonSpirit Health.

For more information about COVID-19 testing and vaccines, visit covid19.colorado.gov.
Mitchell High School students will receive full-ride scholarships to Pikes Peak State College if they graduate, District 11 Superintendent Michael Gaal announced at Wednesdays school board meeting.

The scholarships are one of three components of the districts newly unveiled Mitchell High School Promise, in addition to staff incentive pay and partnerships with community nonprofits.

The promise is an effort to improve the once-beleaguered school, which in 2019 was on the verge of outside intervention that could have resulted in closure.

The Legacy Institute and Dakota Foundation are collaborating with Pikes Peak State College to fund the scholarships. The goal is to eventually spread this opportunity to other schools across the city, according to Pikes Peak State College President Lance Bolton.

The magic in a promise scholarship is we promise we got ya, Bolton said. The difference that we see with promise programs like this is 50% and more increase in college-going rates out of schools.

Mitchells promise scholarship will make higher education obtainable for families that otherwise couldnt afford it, Gaal said, which can change the outcome for individuals as well as the narrative surrounding Mitchell High School.

In 2019, Mitchell received its fourth consecutive priority improvement rating for failing to meet achievement, growth and postsecondary workforce-readiness expectations, according to the Colorado State Board of Education. The rating, determined by the state boards performance frameworks, is a warning to improve or else face action: If a school retains the status for five consecutive years, the state board must direct an action that could include management by an outside entity, conversion to a charter school or closure.

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.

A school can request an early action hearing before its five-year clock runs out. Mitchell has not yet received its fifth consecutive priority-improvement rating since the framework was paused in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID.

Mitchell and District 11 representatives presented a comprehensive plan for improving student outcomes at a hearing before the state board in April. The board voted unanimously in favor of the schools plan, thereby extending its accountability clock an additional two years before board intervention. Mitchell will face another hearing after 2024 performance ratings.

When you make a promise, thats risky business, because you can build or you can damage trust, Mitchell High School Principal George Smith said. If we break those promises, were gonna damage trust.  I look forward to you fulfilling those promises."

The district also committed itself to incentive pay for all staff at Mitchell, acknowledging a school is successful due to the collective work of the entirety of the team. This promise follows a previously board-approved stipend that was to go exclusively to classroom teachers. Gaal said the district will roll out the new staff incentive with recalculated numbers.

The board previously approved the Mitchell stipend, which was intended as incentive pay for classroom teachers at Mitchell.

Teaching and working in schools is hard, Superintendent Gaal said. Teaching and working in a school that is on the state turnaround for several years that is the most understaffed building by ratio is nearly impossible.
As industrious and organized as Charles Vorwaller was as the head of a household of seven children, he ran a Colorado Springs nonprofit organization for 30 years in the same dedicated way.

His steadfast methodology worked. From 1970 to 2000, Vorwaller grew Pikes Peak Mental Health and Family Counseling Center from 22 employees and an annual budget of $225,000 to 600 employees, 1,000 volunteers and an annual budget of $20 million.

He hired people with can-do attitudes, shared his vision, set a clear path and the organization reached its goals, said his son, David Vorwaller.

Charles J. Vorwaller, the patriarch in a namesake lineage of four, died Sept. 1 in American Fork, Utah, at age 89.

He had lived in Colorado Springs for nearly 50 years, and with his wife, Madeleine, raised their children while he rose to the level of a respected community leader.

Former U.S. Congressman Joel Hefley from Colorado Springs helped orchestrate the merger of the community mental health center and Family Counseling Center, which 53 years ago hired Vorwaller as the first CEO of the new organization. Today it is known as Diversus Health.

He put together a wonderful organization that Colorado Springs had needed for a long time, Hefley said. He was an outstanding director and a good friend. Im very disheartened that we lost him.

Vorwaller was considered a visionary, who developed sharp lobbying skills for an industry that largely had been relegated to margins of society and suffered from funding cuts from state coffers.

He realized that running a nonprofit like a business was more beneficial in the quest to help others, said his son, Charles Vorwaller II.

He developed an approach he called corporate configuring, he said, which involved accumulating income-generating enterprises. For example, the mental health center's affiliated foundation purchased Altamira Apartments in 1991, with profits poured into the community health organization.

The phrase dad used is that nonprofits need to come out of the tin-cup era, said David Vorwaller. Every year they never knew how much was going to come from United Way or the state, and nonprofits typically have always had their tin cup out asking for people to donate in small or large part. In order to achieve, you have to have a long-sighted vision and goals.

The kids knew dad was very busy and that his job was demanding, said his daughter, Wendy.

In turn, we got to witness how being part of a larger community outside of our family is really important, she said. He always wanted us to make a difference at our schools we went to.

Days began and ended with prayer for the Mormon family.

Even when Id get home from a date, my parents would be up and theyd have family prayer with me, said David Vorwaller.

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.

And every Monday night was Family Home Evening.

It was that sacred of a day that even when we got part-time jobs mowing yards, babysitting, delivering newspapers, we knew it was important, David Vorwaller said.

Vorwaller decided who in the family would lead the evening, which included singing songs, listening to a lesson and calendaring the clans many activities.

Dad used that time to have us be involved in things not really taught in school, said Charles the second, whose son and grandson are Charles III and IV. Life lessons wed plan a family trip and create a budget, and family members would be responsible.

His dad was the kind of man who turned down raises as the CEO because he knew that would affect how many additional workers he could bring on.

If he took a $40,000 pay increase, that could equal two to three people that could not be hired, David Vorwaller said. He knew he would still make enough to be able to provide. We did not grow up in an elaborate environment, but we also did not grow up in poverty because he taught us how to be resourceful.

Some 350 community movers and shakers attended a private retirement party for Vorwaller held at The Broadmoor, where he was remembered as an institution, according to a Gazette article dated June 24, 2000.

People might know all of the compassion he had, but they might not know he was courageous in his willingness to forge new partnerships and to look at mental health beyond psychological diagnoses, said David Berns, who now lives in Michigan.

Berns, a former director of the El Paso County Department of Human Services, put his head together with Vorwallers to come up with a solution for adoptive families who needed counseling and guidance.

He was willing to co-locate staff in my office get adoptive families mental health services. I dont know that anybody else had done that, Berns said. Its been a long time since he retired, but his legacy lives on, and others have carried it forward.

After Vorwaller retired  or transitioned to a new stage in life as his children said he called it  the Vorwallers became missionaries with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Facing health difficulties, the couple returned to their home state of Utah in 2019. Madeleine died last December. Six of his seven children survive.

A funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Olpin Family Mortuary Chapel in Pleasant Grove, Utah, followed by a graveside service at American Fork City Cemetery.

Donations may be made in Vorwaller's name to the LDS Church Humanitarian Aid Fund at churchofjesuschrist.org.
A small-scale, preliminary study by researchers at the University of Colorado-Boulder suggests developing a breathalyzer test for cannabis users will be a challenge, if possible at all.

Published earlier this year in the Journal of Breath Research, the proof of concept study was the first step in a project between the university and the National Institute of Standards and Technology to develop a standardized practice for detecting cannabis impairment.

Police have been able to detect the blood alcohol concentration of drivers with breathalyzers for decades.

Something similar for cannabis has proved not to be so simple.

In our pilot research, we found that in regular cannabis users, their breath around an hour after use is not looking a whole lot different than their baseline measure on days that they havent used at all, Cinnamon Bidwell, a CU Boulder professor of Psychology and Neuroscience, said in a news release. That suggests that this isnt going to be easy, and a lot more careful research needs to be done to get it right.

CU Boulder received a $600,000 grant from National Institute of Standards and Technology to continue its research.

Medical and recreational cannabis spending combined in the U.S. could hit $33.6 billion by the end of year, according to MJBizDaily  which tracks national cannabis sales.

In Colorado, cannabis sales  medicinal and recreational  peaked in 2021 at $2.2 billion. Sales have been dropping ever since. In the states July report, the latest available, cannabis sales in Colorado had reached $920 million. At the same point last year, sales had already topped $1 billion.

In 2014, Denver became the first city in the United States to permit regulated retail marijuana sales.

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 the years since, recreational use has become legal in 23 states and Washington D.C., and in 38 states for medical use, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Driving under the influence, though, remains illegal.

Impaired driving in the state accounts for one-in-three traffic deaths each year, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation. For the last five years, Colorado has had, on average, 47 cannabis-related fatalities in crashes across the state.

Drug testing methods to detect cannabis rely on blood, urine and hair samples, which cannot be conducted in the field.

The CU Boulder project is the latest to enter a burgeoning market of cannabis research, including the University of Pittsburgh, and emerging breathalyzer prototypes.

Unlike alcohol, in which there is a correlation between blood concentration and impairment, more Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, consumed from cannabis does not equate to greater intoxication.

The authors concluded that the study results do not support the idea that detecting THC in breath as a single measurement could reliably indicate recent cannabis use.

There is a large commercial enterprise saying that this is not only doable, but already exists, Bidwell said. But the science is just not there yet.
Qatar Duty Free (QDF), owner and operator of all catering outlets at Hamad International Airport in Doha, received 12 awards at the 2023 edition of the Food & Beverage (FAB) Awards in Bangkok, Thailand, on Wednesday (September 13).

The prestigious awards ceremony was organised and hosted by acclaimed international publisher, The Moodie Davitt Report.

The awards were in recognition of the innovation, investment and pioneering standards demonstrated by the Qatar Airways Group subsidiary and the award-winning Hamad International Airport.

An independent panel of seven expert judges spanning the prestige culinary, hospitality and aviation sectors voted Qatar Duty Free best-in-class for:

Airport Food and Beverage Offer of the Year (Worldwide) - Qatar Duty Free

New Food and Beverage Opening of the Year (Worldwide)  Louis Vuitton Lounge by Yannick Alleno

Airport Lounge of the Year (Worldwide) - Louis Vuitton Lounge by Yannick Alleno

Airport Lounge, Food and Beverage Offering of the Year (Worldwide) - Louis Vuitton Lounge by Yannick Alleno

Airport Restaurant Design of the Year (Worldwide) - Fendi Caffe

Airport Chef of the Year (Worldwide) - Chef David Sosson

Airport Food Hall of the Year (Middle East & Africa) - Qatar Duty Free

Airport F&B Offer Best Representing Sense of Place (Middle East & Africa) - Chapati & Karak

Food to Go Offer of the Year (Middle East & Africa) - Oreo Cafe

Airport Coffee or Tea Shop of the Year (Middle East & Africa) - Ralphs Coffee

QDF was also highly commended for:

New Food and Beverage Opening of the Year (Worldwide) - Fendi Caffe

Airport Coffee or Tea Shop of the Year (Worldwide) - Ralphs Coffee

Badr Al Meer, Hamad International Airport Chief Operating Officer, said: Qatar Airways Group maintains the ambition to set a new global standard in everything we do. With this impressive recognition at the 2023 FAB Awards, Qatar Duty Free, in partnership with Hamad International Airport, can justifiably claim to be the worlds best food and beverage operator in an airport.

Thabet Musleh, Qatar Duty Free Senior Vice President, said: Team QDF's work ethic, collaborative spirit, passion and shared vision have turned ambitious goals into tangible realities, setting a new standard for excellence.

Our success at the 2023 FAB Awards is a testament to our unparalleled ambition and quality of execution, while keeping our focus on sustainability. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every member of the Qatar Duty Free community - which includes the thousands of customers that pass through our doors every day - for their unwavering support. It has been pivotal in achieving these unprecedented milestones, and we are incredibly proud that Qatar Duty Free has received these honors among such high-quality global competition.  TradeArabia News Service
Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials are offering wildlife safety tips after a hiker was trampled by a moose in Teller County on Tuesday.

Two hikers were walking their three dogs near the Crags Trail, off Colorado 67 around 3 miles south of Divide, when they spotted a cow moose with her calf, officials said in a news release.

The hikers attempted to go around the moose from a distance, but the cow continued to approach the group, CPW said. One of the dogs, which were reportedly on-leash, began to bark and the moose then trampled one of the hikers.

This cow moose was exhibiting classic protective behavior of its calf, said Tim Kroening, CPW area wildlife manager for the Pikes Peak region.

Both hikers managed to run, but the cow moose pursued them down the trail before stopping, allowing them to reach their vehicles, CPW said.

Officials said the hiker was evaluated for minor injuries at a nearby hospital.

We know Colorado residents love their dogs, but understand that moose see dogs as predators and react in defense of themselves and their young," Kroening said.

Two other moose attacks on humans, both reported in Boulder County, have occurred in Colorado in 2023, and a similar incident occurred on Crags Trail in July 2022.

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.

Officials said the moose population, has swelled from 2,250 in 2013 to an estimated 3,500. As more people recreate and move outside of the state's urban areas, outdoors-goers should be aware of wildlife behavior and what to do if they come across a wild animal.

Dogs should be leashed or, "better yet, (kept) at home," Kroening said.

Kroening urged hikers to avoid thick willow habitat in riparian areas  or ecosystems near bodies of water  where moose often eat or rest. Calves are typically born in the weeks between the end of May and mid-June and stay with their mother through the fall season and may be lying in high willow plants.

As Colorado slips into the autumn months, hikers should be increasingly cautious of deer, elk and moose entering the rut, or the annual breeding season when male animals may turn aggression toward each other to humans.

Aggressive moose may pin their ears back, lick their snout, and raise the hair along their spine and rump. In the rare event of an attack, CPW says to run and keep a large object, like a tree or rock, in the mooses way and then call CPW or 911 immediately.

A YouTube video created by CPW in recent years on how to be responsible around moose can be found below:
As a passionate believer in reason and critical thinking, I had an unpleasant encounter with my newsfeed last weekend. Once again, the natural human need for meaning that compels belief in the unreal has made the news. This time, its the notion of incorruptibility, the idea that the bodies of sufficiently good people are somehow immune from the normal processes of decomposition.

This latest such occurrence happened outside Kansas City, when the body of Sister Wilhemina Lancaster was exhumed and found to be in supposedly immaculate condition.

This alleged violation of the laws of physics has drawn thousands to the small town of Gower, Mo., to see the miracle firsthand. Unfortunately for them, theres nothing miraculous about it at all.

There are numerous factors that influence organic decomposition. Access to oxygen, exposure to bacteria and insects, the level of humidity, affect how decomposition occurs. There is no scientific law that says all bodies must decay at the same rate in the same way. In fact, incorruptibility is easy to test: bury people in the open air and see what happens.

Given the large number of bodies buried and exhumed throughout human history, if unusually long periods of decomposition never occurred, that would be strange indeed. Bodies found on Mount Everest are in excellent states of preservation, yet no one would suggest the tragic death of a misguided tourist indicates a saintly life. Nor will bodies decompose in space. Will future humans who die in orbit be candidates for sainthood?

Probably the best work on this topic is Christine Quigleys book Modern Mummies: The preservation of the human body in the 20th century. She documents numerous cases of this phenomenon, showing how unextraordinary it actually is. Did you know, for example, that the body of civil rights activist Medgar Evers appeared not to decay? Its state of preservation helped convict his murderer.

Fortunately, the Catholic Church understands the lack of a miraculous basis for well-preserved bodies. Incorruptibility is now neither necessary nor sufficient for sainthood. This is consistent with the Catholic understanding of miracles as phenomena that cannot be explained naturally. Slow decomposition is not one of them.

Sign up for free: Gazette Opinion Receive updates from our editorial staff, guest columnists, and letters from Gazette readers. Sent to your inbox 12:00 PM. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters.

While early Catholic doctrine was inhospitable to science (just ask Galileo), more modern Catholic orders have understood scientific inquiry to reveal the mind of God. The brilliant Catholic priest Martin Mersenne made fundamental contributions to mathematics, music theory, and physics. Gregor Mendel, a Catholic friar, discovered the laws of biological heredity (although there is strong evidence he fudged his data). The originator of Big Bang cosmology was the Jesuit-educated priest George LeMaitre.

For these people and millions like them, trying to understand the world as it is, in the beauty and harmony of all its physical laws, without preconception, prejudice, pretending, or magical thinking, is a source of wonder and delight.

The best evidence we have says that the universe is about 14 billion years old, the earth about 4 billion, life a little less, descended from a single-celled common ancestor and diverged into species via evolution through natural selection.

That same evidence says bodies can exhibit wide ranges of decay over time. It also says the lighter atoms in our bodies came from the creation of the universe, while the heavier ones came from exploded stars. We are indeed made from star stuff, and our bodies eventually return there. At rates that can vary widely, depending on natural conditions operating under natural laws that our brains can discover and understand.

That, it seems to me, is miracle enough.

Barry Fagin is a long-time promoter of science, skepticism and critical thinking, frequently writing and speaking in support of them. He is a professor of computer science and the author of The Radical Center. Readers can contact Fagin at barry@faginfamily.net.
The families of fallen firefighters are gathered this week and throughout the weekend to pay tribute to their loved ones at the Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony. Held at Memorial Park in downtown Colorado Springs annually, the national ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have given their lives in service to their communities. Its also time to thank the parents, spouses and children who support these professionals.

The Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony has been held in Colorado Springs since 2002 on a weekend close to Sept. 11  the day Islamic terrorists attacked the United States and killed 343 New York firefighters and about that many subsequently from related complications.

The formal ceremony runs from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday and is open to the public.

The ceremony begins with a parade led by a pipe and drum corps, followed by a procession of firetrucks and other emergency vehicles. As the procession moves through the streets of Colorado Springs, family members of the fallen firefighters are invited to follow in their vehicles to the park.

Related events began Wednesday with shuttles taking families from the Colorado Springs Airport to the downtown Antlers hotel, where a greeting committee welcomed them. The hotel hosts an array of formal and informal memorial-related events, where survivors share stories and memories of their loved ones. Its a unique occasion for those who lost heroes to find comfort in the presence of other family members who have suffered similar losses.

The Pikes Peak region seldom endures destructive tornadoes and earthquakes. It never gets a hurricane. In these parts, natural disasters typically involve fires ripping through forests and neighborhoods. Those who lived through this centurys Waldo Canyon and Black Forest fires know how we depend on firefighters. Truth be known, the public never hears of the daily work firefighters provide to quietly save structures and lives without fanfare.

Through their courage and dedication, our firefighters save countless lives and properties. This week and beyond, we should relish in honoring their courage while remembering the legacies of those who died so others could live.

Thursday

 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.: The IAFF store will be open in the Summit III room at The Antlers.

 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Event information available at The Antlers.

 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Family and Honor Guard registration at The Antlers.

 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.: Shuttle available to the memorial site at Memorial Park near front entrance of The Antlers.

 4 to 6 p.m.: Mandatory Honor Guard meeting at the memorial site.

Friday

 7 a.m.: A shuttle from The Antlers to the memorial site at Memorial Park will depart outside of the hotels main lobby for the Honor Guard.

 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Honor Guard registration in the Heritage Ballroom at The Antlers.

 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.: The International Association of Fire Fighters store will be open in the Summit III room at The Antlers.

 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.: Transportation services available.

 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.: A family greeting committee will be available at Colorado Springs Airport, along with organized transportation from the airport to The Antlers.

Sign up for free: Gazette Opinion Receive updates from our editorial staff, guest columnists, and letters from Gazette readers. Sent to your inbox 12:00 PM. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters.

 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.: Family information desk available at The Antlers.

 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.: Shuttles available from The Antlers to memorial site.

 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Mandatory Honor Guard practice at memorial site.

 4 to 6:30 p.m.: Family and friends gathering at Weidner Field featuring food, live music and games (open to the public).

 8 p.m.: Massed Pipes and Drums Band parade will begin in front of Jack Quinns at 21 S. Tejon St. (open to the public).

Saturday

 7 to 9:30 a.m.: Family breakfast buffet in the Heritage Ballroom at The Antlers (registration required).

 7 a.m.: Honor Guard shuttle to Memorial Site.

 8 a.m.: Mandatory Honor Guard practice at memorial site.

 10 a.m.: Ride of Honor arrival scheduled at memorial site (open to the public).

 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.: A family shuttle to the memorial service will depart in 20-minute intervals.

 9 to 11 a.m.: Family information desk will be open in The Antlers lobby.

 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Memorial service scheduled at the Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial. Following the ceremony, a shuttle will take attendees back to their respective hotels in 20-minute intervals.

 3 to 5 p.m.: IAFF store open in the Summit III room at The Antlers.

 8 p.m.: Massed Pipes and Drums Band parade begins in front of Jack Quinns at 21 S. Tejon St.

Sunday

 4 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Gray Line shuttle available to the Colorado Springs Airport.

EDITORS NOTE: For more information, visit IAFF.org

The Gazette Editorial Board
Even if a private arbitrator did not follow the agreed-upon procedures or explain her reasoning, a man could not ask a judge to order a redo of his age discrimination proceedings, the federal appeals court based in Denver ruled on Monday.

The effect of the decision was to clarify  and narrow  the ability of judges to step in and address unjust outcomes from the privately run arbitration system.

A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit acknowledged the case of Gary Waetzig presented an "open question" on an "underdeveloped legal issue." Specifically, if Waetzig originally dismissed his age discrimination lawsuit so arbitration could occur, did federal rules allow a trial judge to eventually overturn the arbitrator's allegedly unfair decision?

By 2-1, the panel said no.

Originally, Waetzig filed suit against his employer, oil services company Halliburton, for being laid off at age 66, allegedly in violation of federal law. He agreed to dismiss the lawsuit because he was required to arbitrate his dispute with the corporation.

An arbitrator eventually sided with Halliburton, but Waetzig returned to federal court, asking a judge to order another arbitration. He cited several ways in which arbitrator Florine L. Clark allegedly violated the rules of the arbitration:

 She did not give 10 days' notice of the hearing at which she expected the parties to argue their positions

 She did not record the hearing

 She did not explain why she decided in Halliburton's favor

Then-U.S. Magistrate Judge Kristen L. Mix agreed Clark did not follow the agreed-upon protocol and a new arbitrator needed to redo the hearing.

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.

Halliburton appealed, arguing Waetzig only wanted a "second bite at the apple." Further, he had options to challenge Clark's decision that did not call into question Mix's authority to order a new arbitration  including by filing his request sooner.

Case: Waetzig v. Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. Decided: September 11, 2023 Jurisdiction: U.S. District Court for Colorado Ruling: 2-1 Judges: Timothy M. Tymkovich (author) Allison H. Eid Scott M. Matheson Jr. (dissent)

Judge Timothy M. Tymkovich, writing for himself and Judge Allison H. Eid, concluded the circumstances of the lawsuit's dismissal prevented Mix from taking action. He honed in on the rule that enables judges to overturn a "final judgment." Because Waetzig dismissed his lawsuit without a judge ever ruling on it, there was nothing final to revisit.

Tymkovich left open the possibility that in "rare" instances, the lack of a judge's order can still make a case final.

"And perhaps we will 'know it when we see it,'" he elaborated. But, he added, Waetzig's case "is not it."

Judge Scott M. Matheson Jr. objected to the hole Waetzig found himself in. In Matheson's view, Waetzig could neither file a new lawsuit nor challenge the arbitrator's decision in any other way.

A dismissal that was not originally final "may later become final due to procedural developments," he noted. With arbitration complete and Waetzig unable to sue, the previous dismissal was final, Matheson wrote. Consequently, he agreed not only that Mix had the authority to order a new arbitration hearing, but that Waetzig should receive one.

The Washington Post reported in 2021 that employees in arbitration proceedings receive money only 1.6% of the time and awards are lower compared with cases that proceed in court. Law professor David Horton has written about how the U.S. Supreme Court took the 1925 Federal Arbitration Act and expanded the scope of this privately run justice system in the last several decades.

Reforms to arbitration agreements are needed, he argued in 2020, to "prevent private dispute resolution from becoming a black hole that swallows an ever-expanding swath of the civil justice system."
Colorado is taking the first step toward using $826.5 million in federal funds to make high-speed internet universally accessible in the state.

The federal government allocated over $826.5 million to Colorado in June as part of the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment program, which funds broadband infrastructure in all 50 states.

Last week, the Colorado Broadband Office published the first volume of the state's initial proposal for spending the funds.

The state will accept public comment on the first volume through Oct. 9. Afterward, it will be submitted to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration for consideration. Additional volumes will be released in the coming months.

"This transformational infrastructure funding ... will accelerate the work to connect 99% of Colorado to high-speed broadband by 2027," a spokesperson for Gov. Jared Polis said Monday.

The $826.5 million will be used to administer grant programs within Colorado, funding the deployment or upgrades of broadband networks in areas without access to reliable, affordable, high-speed internet. Once those goals are met, remaining funds can be used for equity, access and adoption of the program.

Colorado's Bennet, Hickenlooper vow to protect water conservation funds

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 first volume of the proposal identified over 236,000 homes, businesses and other locations without high-speed internet that will be eligible for the grant program. Of the locations, 147,281 are considered "unserved" by current broadband systems, and 88,820 are "underserved."

The proposal also listed 8,009 community "anchor institutions" that will be evaluated to determine which have inadequate internet access and will be prioritized in the grant program. Community anchor institution are schools, libraries, health care facilities, public safety agencies, correctional facilities, public housing organizations and community support organizations.

The list of locations eligible for grant funding is planned to be made public on Jan. 8.

If a local government, nonprofit or broadband service provider disagrees with the state's determination of which locations are eligible for the grant program, the proposal establishes a process to challenge the state's decision. Challenges must be submitted within 30 days after the list is published. The broadband office must make final determinations by April 16.

Colorado has until Dec. 27 to submit its complete proposal to the U.S. Department of Commerces National Telecommunications and Information Administration for approval.

Tech is driving Colorado agriculture forward | FEEDBACK
Lawyers for the Woodland Park School District and the local teachers' union agreed on Wednesday to mediate their dispute over a policy that allegedly infringes on employees' constitutional right to free speech.

Last month, the Woodland Park Education Association and its president, Nathaniel Owen, filed suit against the district, seeking to strike down a prohibition on employees speaking to the press or posting on social media about school matters without the superintendent's prior approval. The district warned that neutering the policy would embolden "dissident" teachers in a school board election year.

At a Sept. 13 conference, U.S. District Court Judge Gordon P. Gallagher cautioned that portions of the policy, in his view, "do have problems."

In lieu of holding a hearing on the plaintiffs' request to block the policy's enforcement through a preliminary injunction, Gallagher asked the parties if they would be amenable to revamping the document themselves. He disclosed that U.S. Magistrate Judge Maritza Dominguez Braswell, the lone federal judge stationed in Colorado Springs, had offered to mediate the dispute.

"We think thats a great idea," said Matthew J. Werner, the attorney for the district. The plaintiffs' attorney similarly agreed to meet with Dominguez Braswell.

Earlier this year, the school district revised its policy on press releases and interviews. Previously, the policy focused on the superintendent's role in communicating to the public. However, the modifications now prohibit employees from being interviewed by the media about school operations without authorization.

Moreover, the policy prevents staff from posting on social media "in their capacity as employees" about district decisions, unless granted permission. Violations of the policy "will be considered to be insubordination."

The teachers' union challenged the manner in which the district issued the policy, as well as the substance.

"Employees can no longer speak on matters of public concern without fear of reprisal from the School District," lawyers for the plaintiffs argued in seeking an injunction. Teachers are "prohibited from being able to speak at School Board meetings, post information on social media, or make comments to the media on matters of public concern regarding their working conditions and learning environment."

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 district countered that eliminating the policy would increase criticism and disrupt operations.

"To grant the Unions Motion would require an injunction that would embolden dissident School District employees to make public statements on social media as official school representatives," wrote Werner. "The School District faces significant employee dissent should the injunction be imposed during an election year and a tumultuous and contentious political climate."

In May, NBC News reported on the tumult in the district, in which a conservative school board member likened their "divide, scatter, conquer" tactics to those of former President Donald Trump. The superintendent has also minimized the importance of student counseling and the board president derided the teachers' "psycho agenda."

Other controversies included the board's condemnation of voluntary mental health screenings for children and their embrace of a conservative social studies curriculum that state board of education members called "too extreme." Amid the outcry after the school board approved a charter school allegedly without prior notice, board member David Illingworth urged the then-superintendent to create a "list of positions in which change in personnel would be beneficial"  apparently referring to terminations.

The teachers' union lawsuit is the latest effort to confront the district's leadership. Gallagher, the district judge, suggested that the constitutional claims about the district's restrictive communication policy had merit.

"As written, on its face," he said, some sections "do have problems. Problems that can potentially be corrected. But problems nonetheless."

The parties agreed to try mediation over the next two to three weeks. Gallagher said if they still wish for him to rule on a preliminary injunction afterward, he will proceed.

"I will await her report on that issue," he said, referring to Dominguez Braswell.

The lawsuit also challenges the district's decision to provide staff with professional liability insurance through the Professional Association of Colorado Educators, which the plaintiffs have called an anti-union organization.
On a recent August afternoon, we met Brother Luck in downtown Colorado Springs on the upper level of a building along Wahsatch Avenue, where this year he opened his latest, highly anticipated restaurant: Folklore.

In a small nook above, Luck has been collaborating with chefs and bartenders on a concept called The Studio. Luck likes to think of it as a playground for creatives  a lab for them to test ideas and spread their wings.

Its a fitting concept at this stage of his career. Now 40, the Springs most celebrated name in food says his focus is on creating opportunities for the next generation.

Also on this upper level of the building, the irony isnt lost on him.

Below is where Luck got his start in the city where nobody knew his name. In 2013, he moved into the back kitchen of what was then a bar and punk rock hangout.

I remember scrubbing the toilets, I remember doing the grocery shopping, I remember repairing the holes in the wall from the mosh pits the night before and carefully removing heroin needles from the bathroom, Luck says. Thats part of my story I had to go through to get to today.

Today hes widely known from Food Networks Top Chef, Beat Bobby Flay and Chopped. Hes the name behind Four, perhaps downtowns greatest gastronomic venture.

Its a rags-to-riches tale beginning in San Francisco, where Luck lost his father at a young age. He says he found his place with gangsters before moving to Phoenix, where he found his place in kitchens.

More than 20 years after culinary school and stops in Asia, Chicago and Texas, Luck is at home in Colorado Springs. For a James Beard Award-nominated chef, it might seem an unlikely home. Luck is all too aware of that.

Thats where we pick up our conversation with him:

Gazette: Did you ever think about leaving the Springs?

Luck: I like my quality of life here. I dont want to live in a (big) city. I grew up in a (big) city ... its just not the lifestyle I want. And I dont want the country. So, for me, Colorado Springs is the perfect medium.

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.

My favorite part about living here is what weve created. Weve changed the (food) culture (from) first coming here and seeing this was a very corporate, chain-oriented town.

Gazette: Was gonna ask you about that.

Luck: To some degree, it still is that. I mean, were a perfect test market. Our demographic fits the model of any corporation wanting to try something out. We have so much military, medical, religious  it makes sense to put something here because thats your average median income across the country.

Gazette: You heard about the Michelin guide coming to Colorado. They announced looking at Denver and Boulder, but not Colorado Springs.

Luck: Perfect example of how they dont respect us. Which is crazy to think because The Broadmoor is here. You would assume that would immediately get Colorado Springs in the mix, and were the second largest city (in the state). It just summarizes how I feel about the respect level of the Springs. We are treated like the stepchild or the foster kid.

Gazette: What needs to change?

Luck: Were seeing other brands coming into our city and raising the bar. I think TILL is a perfect example. ... They came in with this standard and this training that elevated a lot of our hospitality professionals. Then you get a place like Cowboy Star, does the same thing. Came from San Diego and did amazing things.

Ambli Global is another perfect example. Theyre out of Denver, and I think they have the most beautiful restaurant in this city, some of the best food, and the hospitality is phenomenal.

Gazette: You knew I was going to ask where you're eating these days.

Luck: Besides Ambli, Seoul BBQ up north on Briargate. Phenomenal Korean food.

Gazette: How do you feel about our food scene when you look around?

Luck: I think our food scene is not what most people would categorize as a food scene, because theyre looking for contemporary American. I dont think this is a contemporary American, fine dining-style city.

Our city is built on a lot of culture because of our infrastructure and economy. We have an amazing Jamaican community here ... our Vietnamese community, our Filipino community. Our food scene is actually better when it comes to ethnic food, and its what I prefer to eat when I get out.

Gazette: A lot of hidden gems, you might say?

Luck: Yeah. If you want great food in this city, beyond downtown or Old Colorado City or Manitou Springs, you need to go to South Academy. Go to Fountain, go to Widefield. Youre gonna find some culture. Youre gonna find history. Youre gonna find stories.
"Dark money" groups have begun filling their war chests as they prepare for battle over Gov. Jared Polis' proposal to offer property tax relief by diverting money away from a popular tax refund program.

The most recent campaign finance filings with the Secretary of State shows nearly $1.9 million has been raised on both sides of the question known as Proposition HH.

But more than $1.5 million of that comes from nonprofits and other organizations that dont identify their funders, a practice known in political circles as "dark money" spending.

Such groups  often politically active nonprofits  are legally allowed to spend money on electioneering activities without having to disclose their funders; hence, the "dark money" label. Both progressive and conservative entities have increasingly turned to dark money spending over the last numbers of years.

The question, referred to the ballot by majority Democrats in the General Assembly, will ask voters this November for permission to raise the Referendum C cap  the state's annual revenue limit  by 1% and keep that additional revenue for a 10-year period. In 2024-25, $128 million would be transferred from the general fund to reimburse local governments for lost property tax revenue, plus $150 million to the state education fund, according to the General Assembly's Blue Book.

The amount headed to the state education fund, which helps pay for K-12 education, is expected to increase every year, with $270 million in state budget year 2025-26.

In future years, the extra amount the state can spend is expected to grow, reaching $2.2 billion by 2032, according to state estimates.

A companion measure, contained in House Bill 1311, will provide an equalized Taxpayer's Bill of Rights refund to taxpayers, should Proposition HH pass, giving each single filer $873 next year, or $1,746 for joint filers, based on recent projections from the governor's Office of State Planning and Budgeting.

If approved by voters, Proposition HH would also make a temporary assessment rate reduction for residential property classes and reduce valuations  and the property taxes tied to those valuations  for owner-occupied, senior and multi-family housing by $50,000 in 2023, and by $40,000 from 2024 to 2032.

If voters rejected the measure, the TABOR refund in 2024 would be based on the state's current six-tier refund mechanism, which is decided by income levels.

Critics have said that by increasing the Ref C cap by 1% each year for the next nine years, that compounds the amount the government is allowed to keep and spend on property tax relief and state education funding, reducing or even eliminating TABOR refunds.

Campaign finance data through Aug. 30 show critics lead supporters of the measure by about $409,000.

The largest fundraising to date is for No on HH, backed by Advance Colorado Action and Defend Colorado. The latter has been supporting conservative causes for the last several years. Both groups don't disclose their funders.

The two groups have so far kicked in $500,000 each to the No on HH committee.

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.

Four other groups oppose Proposition HH, although none is as well-funded as the No on HH committee.

Among the groups is Americans for Prosperity Colorado Issue Committee, which spent just shy of $100,000, all of it in in-kind contributions, such as canvassing, doorhangers and other forms of advertising, and all paid for by the organization's Virginia headquarters. The group, which is tied to the Koch brothers, also does not disclose its funders.

Taxpayers for a Better Deal, which is backed by the Independence Institute, spent $3,500 in non-monetary activities. The Independence Institute also does not disclose funders.

Two groups with ties to TABOR author Douglas Bruce also oppose Proposition HH. The largest contribution to the TABOR Coalition of $500 comes from the TABOR Foundations TABOR Committee, which is led by former state Rep. Penn Pfiffner.

Bruce is in charge of HH-No.com, which has yet to report any contributions.

Bruce, considered the father of the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights ballot measure that voters approved in 1992, served one term in the state House, which included a censure by the House for kicking a Rocky Mountain News photographer. He was convicted of felony tax evasion in 2012, violated the terms of his probation and eventually served two years in prison.

Only one group is fundraising to support Proposition HH: Property Tax Relief Now.

The group, too, has its own list of dark money funders.

The list includes Education Reform Now Advocacy of New York, which is tied to Democrats for Education Reform, started by New York hedge fund managers and which opposes teachers unions and supports charter schools.

The National Education Association and the Colorado Education Association both have contributed $100,000. The Sixteen Thirty Fund, a New York-based group that has contributed millions to Democratic causes in Colorado, has so far given $60,000.

Boldly Forward, which was started to back the gubernatorial campaign of Gov. Jared Polis and which also does not disclose its donors, has contributed $50,000. The group shifted to advocacy for Polis agenda in 2020.

The largest donation to date to the pro-HH committee is $250,000 from Gary Advocacy, which is part of Gary Community Ventures. The latter was led by Mike Johnston until he successfully ran for Denver mayor. The nonprofit got its initial funding from Denver oilman Sam Gary of Gary Energy.

Gary Community Ventures was the major funder of 2021's Proposition 119, which increased marijuana taxes to pay for out-of-school activities, and Amendment B in 2020, which repealed the Gallagher Amendment. Colorado voters in 1982 approved the Gallagher Amendment, which tied property tax revenue from residential assessed value at 45% of the statewide total. Supporters said the effect is to effectively keep property tax low.
Two Leaders of the Proud Boys Sentenced to Prison on Seditious Conspiracy and Other Charges Related to U.S. Capitol Breach

WASHINGTON - Two former leaders of the Proud Boys organization were sentenced today for seditious conspiracy and other charges related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Their actions disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress that was in the process of ascertaining and counting the electoral votes necessary to certify the 2020 presidential election.

Joseph R. Biggs, 39, of Ormond Beach, Florida, was sentenced to 17 years in prison and 36 months of supervised release.

Zachary Rehl, 38, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 15 years in prison and 36 months of supervised release.

A jury convicted Biggs and Rehl and three other co-defendants of multiple felonies, including seditious conspiracy and conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding on May 4, 2023, for their actions before and during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

According to court documents and evidence presented during the trial, the Proud Boys organization played a significant and often violent role in Washington, D.C. rallies in November and December 2020. In the aftermath of that violent conduct, Biggs and Rehl served as members of a special chapter of the Proud Boys known as the Ministry of Self Defense.

Beginning after Dec. 19, 2020, Biggs and Rehl, all of whom were leaders or members of the Ministry of Self-Defense, conspired to prevent, hinder, and delay the certification of the Electoral College vote and to oppose by force the authority of the government of the United States.

In the days leading to January 6th, Biggs, Rehl, and co-defendants Henry Enrique Tarrio and Ethan Nordean hand-selected co-defendant Dominic Pezzola and others known as rally boys to participate in the attack on the Capitol that day. This group established a chain of command, chose a time and place for their attack, and intentionally recruited others who would follow their top-down leadership and who were prepared to engage in physical violence if necessary.

On January 6th, the group and the men they recruited and led participated in every consequential breach at the Capitol on January 6th. The group began their assault that day at 10:00 a.m. when Biggs, Rehl, and others marched an assembled group of nearly 200 individuals away from speeches at the Ellipse and directly toward the Capitol. They arrived at the First Street gate at 12:50 p.m., and Biggs led the crowd in chants of Whose Capitol? Our Capitol! and Whose house? Our house! Within minutes, Biggs, Rehl, and others led their recruits up the first street walkway, breaching multiple barricades and tearing down fencing. Biggs then declared, weve gone through every barricade thus far.

At about 1:30 p.m., when law enforcement appeared to have successfully controlled the crowd by pushing them back, the men again pushed forward with Biggs and other co-defendants leading the charge. Biggs and other co-defendants then gathered at the base of the concrete stairs that led to the doors and windows of the Capitol. The group again surged toward the Capitol and overwhelmed officers who had been battling the crowd for nearly an hour. Rehl sprayed an officer in the face. One co-defendant, Dominic Pezzola, smashed open a window, allowing the first rioters to enter the Capitol at 2:11 p.m., and Biggs entered close behind him with some of his men.

During the attack, Biggs posed with other Proud Boys on the west lawn of the Capitol for a celebratory video in which Biggs stated that January 6 will be a day in infamy. Rehl made social media posts calling January 6 a historical day, and told his mother that he was so f**** proud of the Proud Boys raid of the capitol.

Later, Biggs and Rehl made statements regarding their attack on the Capitol. On January 7th, Rehl told members of the Ministry of Self-Defense that he was proud as f*** what we accomplished. Likewise, Biggs recorded a podcast-style interview in which he called January 6 a warning shot to the government that showed them how weak they truly are after being b****-slapped . . . on their own home turf. Biggs explained that January 7th was warning shot to the government look, we started this country this way and well f***** save it this way.

During the hearing, U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Kelly applied the enhancement for a federal crime of terrorism to the defendants final sentence.

This case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia, the Department of Justice National Security Divisions Counterterrorism Section, and the Department of Justice Criminal Divisions Organized Crime and Gang Section.

This case was investigated by the FBIs Washington Field Office. The charges in the investigation are the result of significant cooperation between agents and staff across numerous FBI Field Offices and law enforcement agencies.

In the 31 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,106 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 350 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement.

Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

This story has been published on: 2023-09-14. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Cibra, one of the largest fertilizers of Brazil, launched a points accumulation and redemption program for more than 105 thousand producers registered with Clube Agro Brasil.

In 2022, Brazil consumed 41 million tons of fertilizers, in fourth place globally.

Created in 2020, Clube Agro Brasil is the first multi-brand relationship program in the agribusiness Brazilian, connecting industry, sales channels and rural producers.

At the Club, rural producers accumulate points, redeem coupons and exchange them for discounts or agricultural products from associated brands.

CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISING

CibraCoin is the worlds first digital currency linked to the price of fertilizer, with the value locked at the time of acquisition, with the possibility of choosing to exchange for fertilizers at a future time.

Cibra is a company with a startup mentality, which proposes innovative solutions for the market and with a strong focus on digital operations. This all makes it a choice that has a lot to do with the Club. We will also have the opportunity to offer a financial technology, CibraCoin, as a new way to buy fertilizers, says Pedro Campos, CEO of Clube Agro.

CibraCoin is classified as a utility token, as the producer is sure that 1 CibraCoin will always be worth 1 kg of fertilizer.

We believe in the digitalization of agriculture through the formation of digital ecosystems, involving mutual collaboration with strategic partners, such as Clube Agro Brasil. We will be wherever the customer is. We are very close, agile and flexible, we understand and adapt our solutions to customer preferences, highlights Kelly Nakaura, marketing and products director at Cibra.
Brazil is considering the possibility of the state withdrawing from the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, which issued an arrest warrant for Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. He is suspected of committing an international crime  the illegal forced transfer of Ukrainian children.

The corresponding statement on Wednesday, September 13, was made by the Minister of Justice and Public Security of Brazil, Flavio Dino, after discussing whether Putin would be arrested on the territory of this state. The newspaper Correio Braziliense writes about this.

Dino noted that a number of important countries have not joined the ISS. Therefore, Brazil may also reconsider its attitude towards this agreement.

President Lula da Silva rightly warned that there is an imbalance when some countries adhere to the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court and others do not, such as the United States, China and other important countries. This suggests that at some point Brazilian diplomacy may reconsider its commitment to this agreement, since there was no such equality between nations. This was the warning that the president made. Of course, Brazilian diplomacy will know how to evaluate this, the politician said.

According to him, the International Criminal Court belongs to some countries, not all. Such an imbalance can lead to the imposition of the will of some countries on others.

The minister also added that all countries that are members of the United Nations (UN) should review the Rome Charter, which decided to create a court to achieve equality.

Let us recall that all countries that have ratified the Rome Statute, according to the order of the International Criminal Court, are obliged to detain Russian President Vladimir Putin if he appears on their territory.

Brazil, like many other states, has signed and ratified the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.





As GLOBAL HAPPENINGS reported:

 Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has been invited to the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro in 2024. At the same time, he noted that the Kremlin war criminal would not be arrested if he came to Brazil.

However, soon Lula da Silva changed his position regarding the possibility of Putins arrest. He said that would be decided by the courts, not the Brazilian government or parliament.

We have only verified information in our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Dont be fooled by fakes!
Over the Week 37, the MABUX global bunker indices continued upward trend. The 380 HSFO index rose by 8.95 USD, climbing from 576.29 USD/MT last week to 585.24 USD/MT. The VLSFO index, in turn, increased by 9.12 USD (688.17 USD/MT versus 679.05 USD/MT last week). The MGO index surged even more significantly: plus 21.67 USD (from 1006.39 USD/MT last week to 1028.06 USD/MT), confidently surpassing the 1000 USD mark. At the time of writing, bunker indices continued trending upwards.

Global Scrubber Spread (SS)  the price difference between 380 HSFO and VLSFO  remained largely stable, adding a marginal $0.17 and reaching $102.93 compared to $102.76 from the previous week, still in proximity to the $100.00 mark (SS breakeven point). Meantime, the weekly average showed a slight increase of $0.41. In Rotterdam, SS Spread continued its decline, losing another $19.00, from $48.00 last week to $29.00. This marks the lowest value for SS Spread in Rotterdam since April 27, 2020. The weekly average SS Spread in Rotterdam also fell by $12.33. In Singapore, the difference in the price of 380 HSFO/VLSFO over the week also decreased by $5.00 ($98.00 versus $103.00 last week), breaking through the $100 mark. The weekly average decreased by $10.66. Given the current dynamics, it is expected that the SS Spread may continue to contract next week. More information is available in the Differentials section of mabux.com.

Following the uptrend in gas indications, the price of LNG as bunker fuel in the port of Sines (Portugal) increased, reaching 840 USD/MT on September 12 (plus 82 USD compared to the previous week). At the same time, the difference in price between LNG and conventional fuel remained virtually unchanged on September 12: 214 USD in favor of LNG versus 220 USD a week earlier: MGO LS was quoted that day in the port of Sines at 1054 USD/MT. More information is available in the LNG Bunkering section of mabux.com.

During Week 37, the trend of the MDI index (the ratio of market bunker prices (MABUX MBP Index) and the digital bunker benchmark MABUX (MABUX DBP Index)) remained unchanged: the majority of selected ports were underpriced for all types of bunker fuel.

In the 380 HSFO segment, Singapore and Fujairah continued to be undervalued, with the average weekly underpricing remaining unchanged in Singapore and increasing by 8 points in Fujairah. Conversely, in the other two ports, Rotterdam and Houston, the MDI index indicated a slight overpricing, with a weekly average decrease of 2 points in Rotterdam and 12 points in Houston.

In the VLSFO segment, according to MDI, all four selected ports were undervalued. The average undercharge index rose by 13 points in Rotterdam, 13 points in Singapore, 9 points in Fujairah and 13 points in Houston.

In the MGO LS segment, all selected ports remained underpriced, with the average undervaluation showing a significant increase: 25 points in Rotterdam, 26 points in Singapore, 29 points in Fujairah, and 16 points in Houston.

Hence, the trend of undervaluation in the global bunker fuel market persists. More information on the correlation between market prices and the MABUX digital benchmark is available in the Digital Bunker Prices section of mabux.com.

In the latest update of its Maritime Forecast up to 2050, DNV has issued a warning regarding the shipping industrys imperative to explore alternative strategies for emissions reduction. This is driven by fierce competition from other transportation sectors and industries for the supply of carbon-neutral fuels. The classification society has also emphasized that the maritime sectors ability to meet its 2030 emission reduction targets is hanging in the balance. DNV emphasizes the need for a flexible approach, with a focus on enhancing energy efficiency alongside adopting new fuels. DNVs calculations indicate that to meet the projected demand of 17 million tonnes of oil equivalent (Mtoe) annually by 2030, the maritime industry will have to secure a substantial share, amounting to an astonishing 30-40%, of the global carbon-neutral fuel supply. When discussing promising energy efficiency measures, such as air lubrication systems and wind-assisted propulsion, DNV highlights that wind-assisted propulsion has already demonstrated its effectiveness. It has been implemented on 28 large vessels, resulting in fuel savings ranging from 5-9%, with the potential for even greater efficiency gains. In addition to wind-assisted propulsion, nuclear propulsion has established itself as a viable option in the naval sector, boasting an installed base of approximately 160 vessels. In summary, although progress has been made, only 6.5% of the current ship tonnage operates on alternative fuels, compared to 5.5% in the previous year. This indicates that a significant majority, 93.5% of the global fleet by tonnage, continues to rely on conventional fuels.

We expect the upward trend in the global bunker market to continue next week.

Source: www.mabux.com

FREE TRIAL
Marissa Eekhoff and Liliana Hill of Hancock County, have been honored for their work in 4-H. Eekhoff was awarded an Iowa Bankers Association 4-H Scholarship and Hill a Tobin Scholarship through the Iowa 4-H Foundation.

An awards ceremony was held recently in Ames with 99 Iowa 4-H scholarships valued at over $103,000 being awarded. Scholarships were awarded to recipients with a wide variety of 4-H experiences from 58 Iowa counties.

The majority of Eekhoffs 4-H experience was rooted in her club and county. She served in many officer positions and was very active in 4-H club meetings and worked with younger members on various projects. At the county level, she got to know more youth through the 4-H County Council.

According to an Iowa 4-H Foundation news release, one word comes to mind to describe Eekhoffs 4-H experience - impactful. Whether it was learning from the amazing extension staff and seeing how devoted they were to their jobs, seeing a young mind learn something new and be amazed, or helping a timid girl learn that she can do anything she sets her mind to, these experiences positively impacted Eekhoff. This fall, Eekhoff will attend Iowa State University to pursue an animal science degree.

Hill is a nine-year 4-H member, who has found citizenship and communication projects to be among her most important. Hills favorite citizenship project was collecting pop tabs in honor of Jacy McAlexander. That effort taught her to stick to her goals. Her greatest accomplishment in 4-H was being selected for State 4-H Council, twice, where she met so many wonderful people and learned new skills. Hill will study animal science and agricultural communications at ISU next fall.

Iowa 4-H Foundation scholarships acknowledge the hard work and dedication of young people who have used their 4-H skills and experiences to make the best better for others, said Iowa 4-H Foundation Executive Director Emily Saveraid. We also are thankful for the many scholarship donors who fund these important opportunities for Iowa 4-Hers.
Fifteen of Iowas 135 home-health agencies have been inspected by the state so far this year and 14 of them have been cited for violations.

Four of the agencies cited for violations are run by county health departments.

At one privately operated agency, inspectors found that patients were in immediate jeopardy caused by a nurse who failed to follow a patients orders for resuscitation and then left the patients home without calling 911 after concluding the man was dead.

In 2022, 34 home-health agencies were inspected by the state, and five were cited for 10 or more violations. At four of the 34 agencies, the violations were serious enough that the agency and its registered nurses were prohibited from providing any basic-skills training to home-health aides and barred from evaluating the aides competency for two years.

For a more detailed look at all of Iowas home-health agencies, including those that have yet to be inspected this year, visit the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services Care Compare website or the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing website.

Heres a summary of the inspectors findings at each of the agencies visited by the state so far in 2023. Along with the inspectors findings, youll find CMS quality ratings, which are based on a scale of one to five stars, for each agency. (Some ratings are listed as not available due to insufficient data on which to base a rating.)

Floyd County Public Health Home Care, Charles City  In January, inspectors cited the agency for failing to follow patients care plans in two of the seven patient files that were reviewed. In both cases, the staff failed to conduct scheduled home visits and did not notify the patients physicians of those missed visits. Also, in two out of three cases, the agency failed to accurately complete all elements of the patients care plans and failed to ensure adequate infection-control procedures.

Angels Care Home Health of Iowa, Des Moines  This agency has a CMS quality rating of three and a half stars, and a patient-survey rating of three stars. In March, state officials substantiated a complaint against the agency. In reviewing the care provided to four patients, inspectors found that the agency failed to follow the physician-ordered plan of care for three of those patients. In all three cases, the home health workers were to check the patients weight, but repeatedly failed to do so. The agency was also cited for failing to obtain physician orders for some of the treatments that were being provided to patients. The state inspections department did not require the agency to develop a plan of correction to address the deficiencies, according to the inspectors report.

Caregivers Home Health, Centerville  This agency has a CMS quality rating of four stars, and a patient-survey rating of four stars. In February, inspectors reviewed the care provided to four of the agencys 175 patients and concluded that in three of the four cases, the agency failed to provide all of the care that was called for as part of the patients written care plans.

The inspector observed that a nurse failed to provide one patient with two prescribed medications, and on further investigation, it appeared that the plan of care conflicted with physicians orders. The agency was also cited for failing to have registered nurses provide home care aides with individualized, patient-specific instructions for delivering care.

Regional Medical Center Home Care, Manchester  In May, this agency with 71 home-care patients was inspected by the state and no deficiencies were cited. The inspection was prompted by a complaint determined to be unsubstantiated. .

Community Health Services, Algona  This agency has a CMS quality rating of two stars, and a patient-survey rating of five stars. In February, the agency was cited for failing to ensure that home health aides who were assigned tasks requiring extra skills had successfully completed competency testing for those tasks.

One aide who was assigned to help two separate patients with exercises had completed the forms documenting the assistance she provided by adding a one-word notation: Done. The inspector found the agency lacked any documentation indicating the aide had been provided any type of competency training for either of the two patients exercise programs.

The agency was also cited for failing to have registered nurses provide home care aides with individualized, patient-specific instructions for delivering care, and for failing to provide patients physicians with timely discharge summaries.

Good Samaritan Society Home Care, Davenport  This agency has a CMS quality rating of three stars, and a patient-survey rating of four stars. In March, state inspectors completed an investigation of a complaint and concluded the agency had placed residents in immediate jeopardy. After finding the agency was not complying with the conditions for participation in the Medicare program, the agency and its registered nurses were barred for two years from providing evaluations of home health aides basic skills and competency.

The agency also was cited for failing to follow care plans for a patient who died unexpectedly at home. The patient in question had resuscitation orders in place that called on medical personnel to initiate CPR and emergency medical treatment if the patient was found unresponsive.

A licensed practical nurse for Good Samaritan had gone to the patients home on Feb. 14 and consulted briefly with an in-home caregiver before entering the patients bedroom and finding the man cold and stiff with no pulse. The nurse then called the patients physicians and the county coroner to inform them of the death. The nurse didnt take any vital signs, attempt CPR or call 911, and then left the home before police or EMS personnel were contacted. The nurse was later informed by the medical examiner that only EMS personnel could pronounce a patient dead.

Des Moines County Health Department  During a January visit, inspectors cited the agency for failing to accurately complete all updates to a patients comprehensive assessment after the individual was discharged to their home from a hospital. In addition, inspectors reviewed seven patient files and found that in four cases, the agency failed to update patients care plans, in some cases by having incorrect medications listed in the plans.

In three of seven cases, the agency failed to provide only those medications and treatments that were ordered by a health care practitioner. Inspectors reported that the agency also failed to ensure one patients clinical record included accurate and specific documentation of all interventions by neglecting to periodically measure the patients open wounds to chart their progress. At the time of the inspection, the agency had only eight patients.

Heights Home Health, Mapleton  This agency has a CMS quality rating of two stars. No patient-survey rating is available. In February, the agency was cited for failing to accurately complete all elements of a patients plan of care by neglecting to include in the plan all equipment used by the patient to meet their needs, and for failing to obtain physician orders for all services provided.

Iowa Home Care, Ottumwa  This agency has a CMS quality rating of two stars, and a patient-survey rating of three stars. In March, state officials completed an investigation into a complaint and cited the agency for failing to ensure that patients had access to a free-of-charge copy of their clinical record within 10 days of it being requested. A former patient had waited at least two months to obtain a copy of their clinical record to give to her doctor, despite making several requests for the information.

In early 2022, Iowa Home Care was fined $123,219 by the federal government. That penalty was tied to a Dec. 7, 2021, visit by state inspectors who were responding to a complaint against Iowa Home Care of Ottumwa. The state agency cited the business for 17 regulatory violations  an extraordinarily high number of violations for a home health provider. CMS subsequently imposed a $3,213 daily civil monetary penalty against the business for each of the 59 days the business was deemed to be out of compliance.

Those daily fines totaled $189,567. Because Iowa Home Care waived its right to appeal the penalty, CMS automatically reduced the fine by 35% to $123,219.

Later in January 2022, Iowa Home Care was cited for 10 additional regulatory violations. Among the problems cited at the time: failure to ensure initial visits with patients occurred within 48 hours of a referral, failure to complete accurate drug regimen reviews, failure to accurately complete a plan of care in five of the 17 cases that were reviewed, failure to provide medications and treatment as ordered by a physician in four of the 17 cases that were reviewed, failure to report to a physician any changes in clinical findings in three of 17 cases that were reviewed, and failure to coordinate patient care in four of 17 cases reviewed.

In August 2022, inspectors returned and cited the agency for three additional violations: failure to follow a patients plan of care by not providing the physician-recommended number of home-care visits, failure to keep a patients plan of care up to date with new physician orders, and failure to provide care as ordered by a physician.

Iowa Home Care, Webster City  CMS has no quality rating and no patient-survey rating available for this agency. In April, inspectors reviewed a sample of the agencys files and found that in three out of seven cases, the agency had failed to follow the physicians care plans for patients. In all three cases, the staff failed to conduct scheduled home visits and did not notify the patients physicians of those missed visits.

The agency was also cited for failing to accurately complete all elements of three patients written care plans, and for failing to ensure that skilled professionals provided care as ordered by physicians. The inspector noted that in caring for a pediatric patient with chronic respiratory failure, the aides repeatedly failed to check the patients temperature as ordered by the physician and repeatedly measured the childs urinary output based only on the number of diapers that were used.

Orange City Home Health, Orange City  This agency has a CMS quality rating of three stars, and a patient-survey rating of five stars. In February, inspectors cited the agency for failing to accurately complete all elements of three patients written care plans, with one patients care plan failing to make note of the patient having a Lifeline bracelet and necklace to summon emergency assistance over the past year. The agency was also cited for failing to provide patients with wound care as ordered by a physician.

Sanford Home Health and Hospice, Sheldon  In January, inspectors cited the agency for failing to follow patients care plans in two of the seven patient files that were reviewed. In addition, in all of three patient files that were reviewed, the agency failed to accurately complete all elements of the patients care plans. In two of seven cases that were reviewed, the agency failed to update care plans with new orders received from physicians.

Pella Regional Home Health Agency, Pella  This agency has a CMS quality rating of three stars, and a patient-survey rating of four stars. In February, the agency was cited for failing to participate in any disaster-preparedness tests and exercises in both 2021 and 2022. The agency was also cited for failing to ensure assessments of patients treated for open wounds included measurements of the wounds to chart their progress.

Also, in four of the five cases reviewed by inspectors, the agency failed to update the patients care plans to include all medical orders from health care practitioners. In addition, inspectors cited the agency for failing to ensure the patients clinical record included accurate and specific documentation of any interventions, and for failing to provide physicians with patient discharge summaries within five business days of the patient being discharged.

Webster County Health Department, Fort Dodge  CMS has no quality rating and no patient-survey rating available for this agency. In February, the agency was cited for failing to accurately and thoroughly complete updates of a patients comprehensive assessment, and for failing to accurately complete all elements of care plans in two of three cases reviewed by inspectors. In addition, inspectors cited the agency for failing to have a registered nurse provide aides with individualized and specific care instructions for one patient, and for failing to have aides provide care only as ordered by a physician.

Louisa County Public Health Nursing Services, Wapello  In January, the agency was cited for failing to accurately complete all elements of patients care plans and for failing to update care plans to include all current physician orders.
A state infusion of money will go toward improvements at a historic Black cemetery in Danville.

The Virginia Department of Historic Resources is providing about $26,000 from its Virginia Historical African-American Cemetery and Graves fund for rehabilitation work at Oak Hill Cemetery at Walters Mill Road and Betts Street.

Danville City Manager Ken Larking and local historian Karice Luck-Brimmer, a former board member of the department, announced the funding during an event at the cemetery Tuesday afternoon.

When you are walking through an historic cemetery, such as Oak Hill, you are tracing the last footprints of your ancestors, Luck-Brimmer, community initiatives program associate with Virginia Humanities, told officials and residents who attended the announcement. Cemeteries offer a glimpse, a unique glimpse, into the past and are excellent biographical resources.

The money will help pay for cleaning headstones, tree-trimming and cleanup from recent storms in two parts of the 30-acre cemetery, Larking said.

But the main focus of the funds is to reset, repair and clean existing memorials, he said.

The two areas contain about 221 memorials, with about 200 to be repaired and/or cleaned during the project, Larking said.

There have been burials at the cemetery since before the 1900s when the cemetery was part of the Almagro community.

Officially established in 1901, Oak Hill has had burials since before the 1900s, Larking said. It was acquired by the city of Danville in 1931.

There have been over 11,000 burials at Oak Hill, he said.

An extra 5 acres will be developed at the cemetery. That area will be able to accommodate about 2,000 graves, he said.

This is the final resting place of so many of our ancestors, Luck-Brimmer said during her remarks.

African-American cemeteries are part of the cultural landscape and have long been desecrated and inadequately cared for, Luck-Brimmer said. They are in danger of being lost across the country, she said.

As a community, we have a vital role in ensuring that our burial places are preserved, Luck-Brimmer said.

Since July 1, 2022, the department of historic resources has issued $127,932 in support of projects involving 33 cemeteries, she said. They range from small churchyards and family cemeteries to immense city burial grounds, she said.

Larking pointed out how much Almagro loves Oak Hill Cemetery. Established in 1883, Almagro was one of the first incorporated Black communities in the United States at the time.

The project to rehab memorials in the two areas of the cemetery is just the beginning, Larking said.

The plan is to continue these efforts throughout the rest of the cemetery as we go forward, Larking said.

In addition to the cemetery work, the city plans to allocate an extra $1 million for street resurfacing in Almagro, he said.
The director of the federal Bureau of Prisons was scolded Wednesday by members of the Senate Judiciary Committee who say her lack of transparency is hampering their ability to help fix the agency, which has long been plagued by staffing shortages, chronic violence and other problems.

Senators complained that Colette Peters appears to have reneged on promises she made when she took the job last year that shed be candid and open with lawmakers, and that the buck stops with her for turning the troubled agency around.

Sens. Tom Cotton, R-Ark. and Mike Lee, R-Utah, said Peters has forced them to wait more than a year for answers to written follow-up questions they sent her after she first appeared before the committee in September 2022, leaving them without information critical to fully understanding how the agency runs.

The clock is still ticking, Cotton and Lee said, who tried to get Peters to commit to a firm deadline for responding. She declined, blaming the delay and uncertainty as to when answers would be ready on an ongoing Justice Department review process.

Peters also irked senators by claiming she couldn't answer even the most basic questions about agency operations  like how many correctional officers are on staff  and by referring to notes and talking points on a tablet computer in front of her.

Senators really take it personally when you dont answer their questions, Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., the committees chairman, told Peters as he wrapped up the two-hour session. More than almost any other thing that I would recommend Id make that a high priority.

The Bureau of Prisons, the Justice Departments largest law enforcement agency with more than 30,000 employees, 158,000 inmates and an annual budget of about $8 billion, has been under increasing scrutiny from Congress amid myriad crises, many of them exposed by AP reporting.

They include rampant sexual abuse of prisoners by staff and other staff criminal conduct, escapes, high-profile violence and inmate deaths, chronic understaffing that has hampered emergency responses.

Despite the transparency tussles, Durbin said committee Democrats and Republicans alike came away from Peters' testimony largely in agreement that the Bureau of Prisons needs significantly more funding for staffing and infrastructure needs, including a $2 billion maintenance backlog.

"Lets see if that translates into a bipartisan request for appropriations to match with that, Durbin said.

Peters, a reformer who previously ran Oregons state prison system, took charge of the federal Bureau of Prisons in August 2022. She replaced Michael Carvajal, a Trump administration holdover who clashed with Congress and upset staff with claims that dwindling staffing levels weren't a concern.

Peters began Wednesday's testimony by highlighting steps she's taken to fix the agency, including overhauling problematic prisons, beefing up the internal affairs office that investigates employee misconduct and changing the agency's mission to emphasize principles of normalcy and humanity and core values that emphasize accountability, integrity, respect and compassion.

Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., who led a subcommittee investigation into the sexual abuse of female prisoners and spearheaded prison reform legislation, acknowledged Peters' reputation as a reformer and commitment to change. But, he said: Youve now been in the post for about a year and Congress expects results.

And answers. Asked by Cotton how many correctional officers positions are filled amid a staffing crisis that's led to mandatory double shifts and cooks, teachers and nurses guarding inmates, Peters said: I dont have that number in front of me.

Cotton, citing statistics he obtained, told Peters the answer was 12,731, meaning at least 7,700 budgeted correctional officer positions are not filled. That's more vacancies than when AP reported on the issue in 2021.

At another point, Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., became irritated when Peters failed to provide specifics about steps the agency is taking to thwart prisoners from using contraband phones to orchestrate drug deals.

No, no, no, no, no, Graham said, interrupting her.

And then there were the questions asked long ago that still haven't been addressed.

Lee told Peters he submitted a "short list of questions to her after she first testified before the committee, on Sept. 29, 2022, and has yet to get a response.

These are not difficult questions, Lee said.

Lee noted that witnesses testifying before the committee usually respond to written follow-ups within a week or so. He reminded Peters that, at that first hearing, she'd acknowledged it was important to answer the committee's questions in a timely fashion.

Lee suggested she provide the answers by the end of the month. Cotton offered an Oct. 13 deadline, but Peters said she wasn't sure she could meet that, either.

Im disappointed that those questions have not yet been answered," Peters said. We have been working on them diligently over the last year. It has been a lot of back and forth with the (Justice Department). I was hoping that they would be cleared this week, theyre not yet.
In a ceremony marked both by praise for bipartisan cooperation in the General Assembly and celebration of his administration's efforts, Gov. Glenn Youngkin on Thursday signed a much delayed state budget.

The budget, which legislators approved last week in a special session, more than six months later than its supposed due date, sets $1 billion of tax relief.

It also provides for additional spending on schools, behavioral health, law enforcement and natural resources, beyond what the General Assembly approved last year for fiscal years 2023 and 2024.

In signing the measure on the steps of the Virginia Capitol, Youngkin did not exercise his option to propose amendments, which would have returned the 758-page budget to the General Assembly for members to consider those suggestions.

"Today is not about issues, it is not about politics, it is about results  we came together and we got it done," Youngkin said.

Candidly, he said, it took longer than he thought it should.

But the budget delivered what Youngkin described as historic, unprecedented tax relief amounting to $1 billion on top of the $4 billion lawmakers approved last year and already is incorporated in this budget.

For a typical family, the budgets one-time tax rebates of $200 for individuals and $400 for couples filing jointly, plus the increase in the standard deduction to $8,500 for single filers and $17,000 for joint returns, amounts $2,200 in lower taxes, Youngkin said.

The budget reinstates the sales tax holiday for essential items including school supplies, clothing and shoes.

We're funding workforce development across the commonwealth  We are not building a Virginia that simply competes for economic opportunities. We are building a Virginia that competes to win, he said.

Youngkin said the additional $653 million for public schools, on top of the increases already built into the budget from last years General Assembly session will include $418 million to support a push to catch up on learning losses during the pandemic and to crack down on the chronic absenteeism that is holding many students back.

It all starts in the classroom, he said.

The $418 million will fund a high-intensity tutoring program, of three to five hours a week, and families will not have to pay a penny back, he said.

In addition, the budget provides for a 2% pay increase for teachers, on top of the 10% already included in the budget from last years General Assembly action.

These quiet heroes deserve it and we must acknowledge the incredible work they do, he said.

Youngkin said the budget took what he called a significant first step toward transforming Virginias behavioral health system by including an additional $170 million to fund, among other things, more crisis receiving centers, crisis stabilization units and mobile crisis teams.

The money will also expand hospital-based psychiatric care and efforts to recruit, retrain and train people to fill the thousands of vacancies across the system, particularly for community mental health care.

The budget also aims at addressing pay issues that have slowed police agencies recruitment efforts.

Youngkin said Virginia has been turned around since he took office, now seeing some of the fastest job growth in the nation as it emerges from what he described as a time when murder was rising, academic standards in public schools had slipped and the economy was stagnating.

Right now we're in the middle of change. Change to the way Virginia operates. Change to a culture of winning and change the governing in a way that reflects real results," Youngkin said. "This represents the reawakening of that spirit of Virginia. It means that you keep more of your hard earned money because it's yours not the government's, he said.

House of Delegates Democrats, meanwhile, took the occasion to make political points, too.

The final budget is a win for the Virginia families by putting money back in the pockets of hardworking Virginians, making historic investments in our public education system, and protecting abortion access for women who rely on Medicaid and experience tragic fetal abnormalities, the caucus said in a written statement.

Despite every House Republican voting in favor of a budget bill that would have deprioritized our public schools, Democratic conferees refused to leave the negotiating table until a deal was reached that put hardworking Virginians before profitable corporations, the statement said.
At the invitation of the Prime Minister, Minister of State, Xavier Bettel, the Minister for Patriots and Veterans of the Republic of Korea, Minshik Park, paid a courtesy visit to Luxembourg on 13 September 2023. As a reminder, Xavier Bettel visited the Republic of Korea from 25 to 27 July 2023 to mark the 70th anniversary of the signing of the Korean War Armistice (1950-1953), accompanied by Korean War veteran Leon Moyen.

Minshik Park was welcomed by the Prime Minister, Minister of State, Xavier Bettel, for a meeting at the Hotel Saint-Maximin. They discussed the historical links between Luxembourg and the Republic of Korea, bilateral relations and current international affairs.

The Head of Government and the Korean Minister for Patriots and Veterans then laid a wreath of flowers at the 'Gelle Fra' Memorial on the occasion of this commemorative day in memory of the Luxembourg volunteers and UN soldiers who served in Korea. The ceremony took place in the presence of the President of the Chamber of Deputies, Fernand Etgen, the Minister of Defence, Francois Bausch, and two Luxembourg veterans, Elie Kryloff and Jean-Michel Clement.

In the early afternoon, Minshik Park was received in audience by HRH the Hereditary Grand Duke at the Grand Ducal Palace.

The South Korean minister also visited the Villa Pauly for a guided tour of the exhibition 'D'Koreaner aus dem Letzebuerger Land' (1950-1953). This exhibition, produced by the Diekirch National Museum of Military History, retraces the involvement of Luxembourg volunteers in the Korean War and highlights a key event in the shared history of the two countries.

Press release from the Ministry of State / Second World War Remembrance Service
Resplendent Thursday today. Don't let it slip by.

Initially it was the name more than anything else that leaped off the page.

Rudolph Valentino Boone Sr.

A man apparently named after the first sex symbol in the silent film era and an early Hollywood icon, had passed away. It was impossible to look away from the brief account of his life in his obituary.

And when I finished, it became clear that he made an outsized impact in the community in leading a very interesting life.

Born in 1927, Rudolph Valentino Boone was one of 12 children raised by Lizzie Miller Boone and Anderson Boone in Norfolk, Va.

Like many men his age, Boone served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II and received the World War II Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal (Japan).

And as a soldier, Boone integrated the 392nd Army Band at Fort Lee, Va. before being honorably discharged in 1947.

But that was just the beginning.

After graduating from whats now known as North Carolina A&T State University and later earning a masters from the Vandercook College of Music in Chicago, Boone took a job in 1955 as a band director in the Winston-Salem school system.

And thats where he began to make his mark in the community.

Boone worked in 27 different schools, his obituary reads, but one stood out above all. He served as the band director at Carver High School for more than 30 years and organized a jazz ensemble in the school.

His devotion led to the band room being named in his honor.

Theres no telling how many young people Boone gifted with a love  or at least an appreciation for  music, specifically jazz, a true American genre.

I am so deeply sorry to learn about the passing of Mr. Boone, wrote former student Beverly Blackwell in an online book of remembrances. I had him for many years as a band teacher and always had the highest respect for his talent as well as his ability to teach with understanding, concern and love. Mr. Boone knew his craft and when his students performed, we always gave it our best because we wanted to make him proud.

When he wasnt teaching music, Boone performed. He led a big band called Rudolph Valentino and the Birdland Stars and performed throughout the state.

Boone was married to Sarah Elizabeth (Jenkins) Boone, who died in 2022, for 72 years. The couple had two children, two grandchildren, one step-grandchild and three great-grandchildren.

He also was active in local politics, serving as a precinct chairman during elections for several years and was a life member of the NAACP.

Mr. Boone really set a fine example of who and what a real responsible man is supposed to be without compromise, wrote Dennis Reid, another former student.

Ordinary people who live extraordinary lives make up the fabric of the community.

Rudolph Valentino Boone Sr. certainly left a lasting legacy.

Drive-by shooters go to prison

WINSTON-SALEM  Bullet holes do not belong in apartment walls. Certainly not in proximity to kids bicycles and toys.

And yet on the morning of July 7, 2019 thats what residents of the Cole Village Apartments saw.

The day before, a 5-year-old boy named Alberto Rios-Navarette was killed by a stray bullet in his familys apartment. He was struck in the head while watching TV, his 3-year-old sister nearby.

Gunfire  and gang activity  sadly had become an accepted part of life in the neighborhood.

Some residents were cowed that day by fear; others, not so much.

A young woman named Beatriz said as much by body language and in words. As her young son played with a toy car nearby, she said she was more concerned about speeding cars than stray bullets.

I mean, Ive heard gunshots before. Just not in the apartments so close, she told me.

Let that sink in.

The three young men responsible for that abomination  Santiago Rodriquez Marcial, Enedino Vicente Morales and Rudy Gomez-Medina  were sentenced Wednesday to 13-16 years in prison.

They pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, discharging a firearm into an occupied dwelling and discharging a firearm from within an enclosure  legalese for a drive-by shooting committed from a car.

At the time, investigators said the shooters had been firing indiscriminately at a rival gangster. Neighbors at the Cole Village Apartments said theyd heard it was part of an initiation and reported that one of the shooters was wearing a mask emblazoned with an American flag.

Sully comes to Greensboro

GREENSBORO  Perhaps you remember that raw, gray day in January 2009 when, against all odds, the pilot of US Airways Flight 1549 managed to land the stricken jet he was flying safely in the Hudson River, saving all 155 people on board.

Or maybe you waited until the movie came out.

Either way, the man at the center of the days heroism  Capt. Chesley Sully Sullenberger  is scheduled tonight to speak at the Steven Tanger Center in a talk called 208 Seconds: A Lifetime of Lessons.

The plane recall had both of its engines disabled by bird strikes, and its crew  Sullenberger and First Officer Jeff Skiles  calmly set it down in an emergency water landing.

It was exactly the sort of maneuver that flight attendants try to prepare you for by demonstrating how to inflate seat cushion life preservers.

The move was quickly hailed as the Miracle on the Hudson, and six years later, Tom Hanks played the lead role in Sully.

Now locals have the opportunity to hear the story from the source as part of Guilford Colleges Bryan Series.

A handful of tickets were still available this morning. But be warned: theyre not cheap. Seats were starting at $70.
Maybe evangelicals forgot to tell their favorite libertine that its only in heaven that the last shall be first, and the first last. But at some point, the party of Donald J. Trump stopped believing that its up to voters to decide who gets to govern.

I say this as folks who only call themselves conservative  coups detat are never that  strategize about how to impeach Joe Biden for fun and profit. They have no high or low crimes or misdemeanors to cite. But they do have a reason, which as the light of their world wrote on Truth Social is THEY DID IT TO US!

In Wisconsin, the former Grand Old Party is, according to The New York Times, coalescing around the prospect of impeaching a newly seated liberal justice on the states Supreme Court, whose victory in a costly, high-stakes election this spring swung the court in Democrats favor.

Justice Janet Protasiewicz has not yet heard a single case, but the pretext for her hoped-for removal, which has been under discussion since before her election, is that she has been open about seeing the electoral congressional maps drawn in her state as rigged.

(Should she instead have winked into the camera and emulated all those U.S. Supreme Court justices who pretended during their confirmation hearings that Roe v. Wade wasnt going anywhere? Presumably, yes.)

Republicans target Fani WillisIn Georgia, meanwhile, a new law that Gov. Brian Kemp signed this May makes it possible for a commission appointed by the governor, lieutenant governor, state House speaker and a state Senate committee on assignments to investigate and remove prosecutors they see as failing to properly enforce laws. When Kemp signed it, he said it was intended to rein in far-left prosecutors.

Georgia state Sen. Colton Moore will not, it seems, be able to immediately defund or derail the efforts of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who is prosecuting Trump for pressuring Kemp and others to overturn his 2020 loss in their state.

But like other radicals, Moore is still warning that extreme measures are justified because thats the only way to avoid the civil war that he and his fellow extremists miss no opportunity to incite.

If we dont keep Willis from doing her job by prosecuting Trump, Moore reasoned, our constituencies are gonna be fighting it in the streets. Do you want a civil war? I dont want a civil war. I dont want to have to draw my rifle. I want to make this problem go away with my legislative means of doing so.In Alabama, lawmakers who think elections shouldnt necessarily have the consequences intended by voters not only drew an illegal congressional map, but then refused to respond to the federal judges who told them to fix it.

Even when told to try again, they couldnt bring themselves to create a second majority-Black district in the state, or anything close to that.Across the country, the party of honest Abe has become the party of performance artists like Vivek Ramaswamy. The former national security party has allowed Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville to block military promotions for the last eight months. The former law and order party promises to pardon a large portion of cop-beating Jan. 6 insurrectionists.

Yet in Missouri, the party that so steadfastly fights freeing the wrongfully convicted is determined to overturn the conviction of former KCPD detective Eric DeValkenaere, the one Kansas City cop ever convicted of killing a Black man.

In our state, too, all of the most prominent members of the DJT Party continue to undermine our democracy with the lie that wont die, that Trump wuz robbed in 2020. Oh, and that he is being prosecuted now for reasons that have nothing to do with the multiple ways in which he tried to end America as weve known it by staying in office after an election he knew he had lost.

If you really thought you won, why would you give up on winning at the polls ever again? If you believed in either the idea or ideals of America, would an ally be on TV saying, as Mike Huckabee recently did, that unless you win next time, it is going to be the last American election that will be decided by ballots rather than bullets.

Nice country you got there, and itd be a shame if anything were to happen to it.

The problem underneath all of this is not that the boy who was never held accountable for any lie he ever told or con he ever sold is now, as a 77-year-old adolescent, testing our system as never before. Its that the former Daddy Party collapsed more spectacularly than I would have believed possible instead of ever standing up to him either.

I used to think the GOPs adherents were better than this, and maybe still harbor some fumes of hope that this whole, sad devolution ends Capra style, with the justices Trump put on the Supreme Court disqualifying him from office.

But would Josh Hawley then admit that he knew all along who our most cynical president was and was not? We all know the answer. Which is why so many defectors from the old Republican Party have realized that only voting Trumps many courtiers out of office can save us from Trumpism.
Oct 31, 2023 (17 Rabi Al-Akhar 1445) - Today Islamic Date in Mauritania is 17 Rabi Al-Akhar 1445. Islamic Date is also called Hijri Date or Today Arabic Date in the Muslim world that follows Moon phases as a lunar calendar. Check the exact Islamic date today in Mauritania with an accurate Hijri date updated daily.

Today Islamic date in Mauritania is calculated as per the lunar based calendar which consists of 12 Lunar months in a year of 354 or 355 days. A Muslim must know about the exact Islamic date today or chand ki date.

What is Islamic date today?

Todays Islamic Date in Mauritania in Islamic Hijri calendar is 17 Rabi Al-Akhar 1445. The current Islamic year is 1445 AH.

Today Islamic date in Mauritania

Islamic Date Today  Islam is the second biggest religion in the world with around 1.8 billion followers. Muslim population is not present in the Muslim countries but they are also in significant numbers in other countries. Muslims follow Hijri calendar to celebrate Islamic events according to the Islamic month date. However, the Islamic date today in Mauritania is as per the Islamic calendar. Thats why the Muslim calendar usually gives just the overview of today Islamic date in Mauritania 2023 and other upcoming dates. On this page, you can easily confirm the Islamic date today in Mauritania or Hijri date in Mauritania.

You can utilize this page to plan your vacations according to the Islamic holidays 2023 such as Eid al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, Hajj, etc. You can find the Urdu date today along with the respective Georgian date. You can see the Islamic date today in Mauritania and also the dates of upcoming events.

This page is a perfect place for people who are interested in today Islamic date in Mauritania 2023. It is recommended that you should bookmark this page to keep updated about the Islamic date today in Mauritania 2023. Islamic months are as follow Muharram, Safar, Rabi ul Awal, Rabi Al-Akhir (Rabi' al-Thani), Jumada Al-Awwal (Jumada al-Ula), Jumada Al-Akhirah (Jumada l-Ukhra or Jumada al-Thani), Rajab, Shaban (Sha'ban), Ramadan (also spell as Ramazan, Ramzan, Ramadhan), Shawwal, Dhul-Qadah (Dhu al-Qi'dah or Zu al-Qa'dah) and Dhul-Hijjah (Dhu al-Hijjah or Zu al-Hijjah).

Today Arabic date for Barkewol, Nouakchott, Chinguetti, Nouadhibou, Tidjikja and others cities are also available on this page.
September offers a host of events to celebrate American Indian heritage - leading off with a Little Shell ceremony honoring a Sun Dance held in Helena a century ago and closing out with the Last Chance Community Pow Wow.

Due to a quirky September calendar this year with five Fridays, Montanans actually get to celebrate two American Indian Heritage days this month, Sept. 22 and Sept. 29, explains Mike Jetty, Indian Education specialist with Montanas Office of Public Instruction.

A 1997 state statute designated the fourth Friday of the month as American Indian Heritage Day, while a 2009 statute designated it as the last Friday of the month.

Prior to these official celebrations, the Little Shell Tribe will hold a public ceremony at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, at the little park known as the Lazy Green across from Helena Middle School. They are dedicating a new plaque commemorating the 1908 Nepaquashimowin, or Thirsty Sun Dance, said Little Shell tribal member Dan Pocha.

If you go... What, when, where: Little Shell ceremony 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20, at Lazy Green park, across from Helena Middle School What, when, where: The Big Read film showing Gather, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27, at The Myrna Loy, 15 N. Ewing What, when, where: Three Indigenous films, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28, at The Myrna Loy, 15 N. Ewing What, when, where: Last Chance Community Pow Wow, 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 29, through Oct. 1, at the Lewis and Clark Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall What, when, where: Tribal flag event, noon, Friday, Sept. 29, in the state Capitol flag plaza. Learn about the symbols on the eight tribal flags of Montana.

The plaque states: On July 5,6 and 7, 1908, at this location, Chief Little Bear of Rocky Boys Band held a Sun Dance. Followed on July 8, 1908, with a council at Congressman Carter's house, asking for a reservation for the Landless Indians of Montana.

The Magpie Drummers will be on hand for the ceremony, as well as Montana Poet Laureate Little Shell writer Chris La Tray, said Pocha.

According to Jetty, the 1908 Sun Dance was held at the request of a Helena Fourth of July celebration committee, which paid the Little Shell to dance.

The tribe also charged public admission to the event.

Its unusual that the Little Shell would have agreed to do the Sun Dance publicly, since it is a very sacred ceremony, but the tribe was desperately poor, Jetty said.

Known as The Landless Indians, the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians had no reservation, which is still the case today.

They have, however, gained tribal recognition from both the federal and state government.

At the time, the territorial government had outlawed the Sun Dance ceremony, calling it pagan, said Jetty.

So, this event would have been an opportunity for the tribe to legally perform the ceremony and charge admission. The public would have walked through in this almost zoo-like atmosphere.

This is a very sacred, ancient ceremony of renewal and sacrifice, said Jetty. To perform these ceremonies maintained their deep spiritual connections to the universe. The Sun Dance recreates the center of the universe in that spot. Youre connected to everything.

It has a deep spiritual and cultural meaning and youre praying for your people so they can go on into the millennia.

What little that is known about the event is from a short diary excerpt written by John G. Carter, the son of Montana Sen. Thomas Carter, said Jetty.

While the father was no friend to the Indians, his son seemed quite fascinated with Native culture and attended at least part of the Sun Dance. He was also present at the council at his fathers house.

He noted that no photos were taken of the event, but that some sketches were made. However, none of those have been discovered. (See attached PDF of transcript of his journal pages.)

He describes the bringing in of the center pole and materials to build the lodge, the raising of the pole and erection of the lodge.

The director of the Sun Dance was Little Bear, a Cree Indian.

He wrote that the band of landless Indians was poor, ragged, shabby and dirty. They constitute a wandering and unattached band of poor Indians and mixed bloods, under the leadership of Rocky Boy, a Chippewa. They live off of the offal thrown out by different slaughter houses throughout the Eastern part of Montana, and by money obtained from sale of small Indian trinkets, and by casual and occasional labor.

Carter spoke to a younger member of the band who told him the white people wanted the Indians to ride naked in the Fourth of July parade, but that the tribe refused to do so.

Carter also attended a council that the Rocky Boy band held with his father, Sen. Carter, at their home, 644 Dearborn Ave.

They want the United States to give them a reservation and an agent, or else to provide them with a place on some existing reservation, he wrote. They are tired of wandering, and find living hard.

They might have been perceived as poor and homeless, but they had some rich, powerful spiritual wealth  and thats powerful. said Jetty. The cultural traditions they carried with them were way more valuable than a gold nugget.

Jetty plans to offer follow-up education presentations for HMS students about this important historic event, and said that the Sun Dance ceremony made the Lazy Green sacred ground.

Other American Indian Heritage events

Indigenous films at The Myrna Loy

As part of the Big Read, the Lewis & Clark Library offers a free screening of Gather at the Myrna Loy 7 p.m. Sept. 27.

The film is an intimate portrait of the growing movement among Native Americans to reclaim their spiritual, political and cultural identities through food sovereignty, while battling the trauma of centuries of genocide.

And on Sept. 28, from 7-9 p.m. The Myrna Loy celebrates Indigenous filmmakers by teaming with the OPI Indian Education Office and the Montana Historical Society to present three short films from the 2023 Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.

"Lily Gladstone: Far Out There"  Filmmaker Brooke Pepion Swaney profiles independent film actress Lily Gladstone as she prepares for the release of Killers of the Flower Moon.

"Joe Buffalo"  Joe Buffalo is an Indigenous skateboarding legend. Hes also a survivor of Canadas notorious Indian Residential School system. (15 minutes)

"The Trails Before Us"  This documentary follows 17-year-old Nigel James, a Dine mountain biker, as he hosts the first Enduro race in the Navajo Nation. (13 minutes)

The Sept. 28 films are served up with desserts in celebration of the MHS Montana History Conference.

Tickets for the Sept. 28 film showings go on sale after Sept. 21 at The Myrna Loy,15 N. Ewing, https://bit.ly/46aDI3U, 406-443-0287.

Last Chance Community Pow Wow

The Last Chance Community Pow Wow, now in its 24th year, kicks off at 6 p.m. Sept. 29, with the Grand Entry and runs through Oct. 1 at the Lewis and Clark Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall.

The pow wow is like a big family reunion, youre seeing your friends and relatives. Its a celebration of all that. And the dancing and drum are a healing part of the pow wow, said Darcy ODell, a board member.

The pow wow is free and all are welcome.

Our theme is Honor the Children and we really mean it. Our children are our future and lead us into the next coming years.

Friday, from 10 a.m. to noon, dancers and drummers will gather as part of Demonstration Day for schoolchildren, when hundreds of children join in a round dance.

ODell calls the Friday evening Grand Entry a must-see event, with everyone entering in their regalia and participants coming from as far away as Canada and surrounding states.

For a full schedule, visit lastchancepowwow.com or visit them on Facebook.

Flag event at the Capitol Sept. 29

Mike Jetty, Indian Education specialist with Montanas Office of Public Instruction, will hold a noon event at the state Capitol Sept. 29 to discuss the symbols on the eight tribal flags of Montana flying in front of the state Capitol.

Im going to sing a flag song and give a little lecture on the symbolism of each one of them, he said.

The event is planned at the flag plaza, but will move indoors if there is inclement weather.
The Helena City Commission approved both the extension of phase one and commencement of phase two of a major subdivision on the city's west side during Monday's meeting.

Sussex Construction, developer of the 172-housing unit Westside Woods neighborhood in the shadow of Mount Helena, submitted a written request on Aug. 2 to extend the first phase of construction a year to a completion date of December 2024 and approve the commencement of phase two.

Per Montana Code Annotated, the city commission has 30 working days from receipt of the request to hold a public hearing.

The city commissioners approved the pre-zoning of the land, resolution of intention to annex the land, and the development's preliminary plat during its April 10 meeting, while also imposing more than 20 conditions on Sussex.

City staff stated during Monday's meeting that no potential negative impacts were identified should either item be approved.

Helena Community Development Director Chris Brink told the commissioners the nature of the request for an extension on phase one received from Sussex is "essentially, they were not able to receive permit issuance, nor have they begun that phase of construction."

"They cannot complete the (first phase of the) project in the next two months," Brink said.

Sussex owner Ron Barsch told the commissioners that the city's 24-inch water main, the crosstown connector, has necessitated design changes that needed staff consideration as well.

"In working with city staff, ... it has been determined the best result for creating the best infrastructure will actually be relocating the city main to the center of the roadway," Bartsch said.

He added that much coordination needed to occur because the relocation would put the pipe outside of an existing easement that allows for access to the infrastructure at anytime, hence the extension of phase one and early commencement of phase two as the water main runs under both phases.

Save Helena Westside, an organization of existing west side residents, has continued the opposition campaign against the project, stating concerns about public safety in the event of an evacuation with the lack of a second point of egress to the development's west.

City Commissioner Emily Dean included language requiring further consideration of such a design change within the more than 20 conditions of approval in April.

Save Helena Westside President Sara Perry said during public comment at the meeting that phase two as platted would prohibit one of the only agreed upon options for a western egress.

Brink said between the approval of commencement and final plat approval, there will be no home construction. Plans get approved, lots are laid out and necessary conditions are met.

He also stated, like local first responding agencies and the county sheriff, who is in charge of an evacuation, that staff has seen no need for additional western access to the development.

When City Commissioner Melinda Reed inquired about potentially imposing additional conditions at this stage, Brink said "there has to be a nexus for that requirement. Right now we've not identified nor have we had traffic numbers show us an additional western access is needed."

Sussex now anticipates the first phase of the project to be completed by December 2024 and will include 28 single-family homes, two multifamily buildings and two open-space lots.

Brink said the open-space lots will come to the city commission for acceptance by early November.
Montana Air National Guards 120th Airlift Wing in Great Falls has been selected as one of four preferred locations to receive the C-130J Super Hercules, the Department of the U.S. Air Force announced Thursday.

The new aircraft would replace the aging C-130Hs, pending the outcome of environmental assessments, Air Force officials said. Eight C-130J aircraft will be used to replace the C-130H fleet at each location.

The three other sites named as preferred locations were the 103rd Airlift Wing (Hartford, Connecticut), 133rd Airlift Wing (Minneapolis) and 182nd Airlift Wing (Peoria, Illinois), Air force officials said.

This significant series upgrade will require new flight qualification for pilots and loadmasters transitioning airframes. Any excess in manpower due to this shift will be repurposed through the Air National Guard corporate process and will vary by location, the Air Force said in a news release.

The Air Force will do environmental impact analysis at each location, which are expected to be completed in fiscal year 2025 before a final decision is made, officials said.

Sen. Jon Tester, chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, said the aircraft are a perfect fit for Montana.

The Montana Democrat said they can carry up to 45,000 pounds of cargo, can be used to fight wildfires, and can conduct search and rescue operations, he said in an email. Its a big plane with a big mission  and its the right fit for a big state like Montana.

Tester, noted he has for years worked to bring C-130Js to MANG  advocating for new aircraft and military construction projects, while seeking critical modernization efforts for its aging fleet of C-130Hs.

Gov. Gianforte announced the Air Force's decision early Thursday and praised the adjutant general of the Montana National Guard, Maj. Gen. J. Peter Hronek, for his work to secure the new fleet.

This recognition would not be possible if it werent for the tireless and dedicated efforts of Maj. Gen. Hronek to get this done for Montana, he said.

Hronek said he was proud of the airmen and how they have performed in the C-130 mission since 2013.

"Through their dedication to mission accomplishment, success during deployments, and outstanding inspection results, they have shown the Air Force and Air National Guard they are deserving of the C-130J's to proudly defend our nation and state," he said.

The Defense Appropriations Act of FY22 and FY23 appropriated 32 C-130Js for the Air National Guard. On March 24, 2023, the director of the Air National Guard approved eight bases as potential locations for these aircraft, the governors office said.

Tester said in a news release he secured more than $1.7 billion in funding for 16 C-130Js in the most recent FY23 Appropriations Package, and $1.8 billion in funding for 16 C-130Js for the Air National Guard in the FY22 Appropriations Package.

Tester noted he was the only member of Montanas congressional delegation to vote for this funding.

Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., released a statement saying he had spent years "advocating" for the aircraft to come to MANG.

The new C-130s will be right at home in Montana, he said in an email. He also praised Hronek and Hronek's staff.

"Our airmen and facilities are second to none in the country so I cannot think of a better place for this new and improved version of the C-130, Daines said in the email.

Brig. Gen. Buel Dickson said Thursday the upgrade was made possible through a collaborative effort between Montana's senators, governor, adjutant general and the combined efforts of "our Airmen in the Montana Air National Guard.

This upgrade will require pilots and loadmasters to undergo new flight qualifications to conduct their mission, officials said.

Our Airmen are not unfamiliar with change as we converted our entire mission in 2013 from the F-15C/Ds to the C-130H1s, Dickson said in a news release. By upgrading to the C-130Js, we are once again proving our military strength and domestic capability while ensuring a long and successful mission here in Montana.

This story was updated to include comment from Brig. Gen. Buel Dickson.
Glacier to host annual hawk watch program

Glacier National Park will host its annual Mount Brown Hawk Watch Program from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 14 near Lake McDonald Lodge.

The event will begin at the Golden Eagle interpretive sign near Jammer Joes restaurant parking lot in the Lake McDonald Lodge area; snacks and hot beverages will be provided.

Park biologists and volunteers will teach participants how to identify and count migrating raptors and answer questions and discuss why Glacier started the Mount Brown Hawk Watch Program.

Educators from Montana Wild Wings Recovery Center will also be on-site with live raptors from 12 to 2 p.m. to provide close-up looks at some of the raptor species that migrate past Mount Brown.

Counting migrating raptors will resume from 2-3 p.m. Participants should bring their own binoculars and be prepared to count Golden Eagles on their annual migration south past Mount Brown. Attendees need not stay for the entire program.

Throughout September and October, volunteers can also choose to hike on their own to an observation point and count migrating raptors just below Mount Brown fire lookout.

Those interested should email the Glacier Citizen Science Office, GLAC_citizen_science@nps.gov, for more details.

For more information about the Mount Brown Hawk Watch program, contact park staff via email at GLAC_citizen_science@nps.gov or call (406) 888-7986.

-- Glacier National Park

National forest seeks more workers

The Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest said that #FireHire is underway and hopes to fill 37 permanent full-time fire positions across the forest.

Covering 17 counties and 2.8 million acres, the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest averages 100-120 fires per year with 8,000-12,000 acres of active prescribed burning and fuels treatment work.

Position announcements close Sept. 29. Find them all on www.USAJOBS.gov.

-- Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

FWP taking comment on public land use rules

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is accepting public comment on a consolidated set of public use rules proposed for all FWP land, aimed at providing consistency for users across FWP sites.

At its meeting Aug. 22, the State Parks and Recreation Board approved FWP moving forward with the rule-making process for these public use rules. Public comment on the proposed rules will be taken from Sept. 8 to Oct. 10.

The public comment period opened when the notice was published in the Montana Administrative Register by the Montana secretary of states office.

A public hearing on the proposed rules will be held via Zoom on Oct. 2 at 10 a.m. Zoom meeting information is as follows:

Dial: +1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 898 5557 5756

Passcode: 496060

Comments will be accepted at the public hearing and by mail and email. Written comments can be sent to: Charlie Sperry, FWP, P.O. Box 200701, Helena, Montana, 59620-0701; or emailed to fwppublicuserules@mt.gov. Deadline for written comment is 5 p.m., Oct. 10.

State flexes mussels from Minnesota boats

So far this year, FWP and its partners have inspected more than 86,000 watercraft for aquatic invasive species.

Of those, 45 were mussel-fouled and more than 400 were found with aquatic weeds.

FWP and partner agencies, which include tribes, counties and conservation districts, operate more than 17 road-side watercraft inspection stations across the state. To find a watercraft inspection station or to learn more, go to https://fwp.mt.gov/conservation/aquatic-invasive-species or call the FWP Aquatic Invasive Species Bureau at 406-444-2440.

In the last few weeks, the following was detected:

A ski boat recently purchased in Minnesota was intercepted with mussels at the Wibaux watercraft inspection station (operated by Garfield Conservation District). The boat was decontaminated, locked to the trailer and released to its final destination in Pend Oreille, Idaho. Idaho was notified to allow for follow-up.

The Wibaux station intercepted a wakeboard boat that was recently purchased in Minnesota with mussels in the sea strainer. The boat was decontaminated, locked to the trailer and authorities at Lake Tahoe, its destination, were notified for follow-up.

The Broadus inspection station (managed by the Powder River Conservation District) intercepted a recently purchased mussel fouled ski boat from Minnesota heading for Big Sky. Staff decontaminated the boat, locked it to the trailer and FWP staff followed up with the owner for a full decontamination.

No Eurasian watermilfoil has been found in Beaver Lake near Whitefish this season following three comprehensive surveys. Another follow-up survey will be conducted in October.

As the boating season winds down, inspection stations will be closing. The St. Xavier and Sula stations are now closed. Other stations will be closing in the coming weeks.

-- Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
CHICAGO  At first, Debbie Tumbarellos wedding was the height of romance  a Valentines Day whirlwind straight out of Sleepless in Seattle, she said.

Tumbarello, who lives in Inverness, Illinois, married her husband in Las Vegas on Feb. 14. She left Vegas with memories of a Beatles tribute show and a rooftop ceremony. However, she also left with COVID-19  and hasnt come back to full health since.

The symptoms of the cold went away, but as the weeks progressed, I just started sleeping, Tumbarello said. On the weekends, Id be sleeping 14 to 16 hours a day  My husband was freaking out. Hes like, this is just not you.

After hearing about her brain fog, extreme fatigue and joint pain, an infectious disease specialist at NorthShore University Health System diagnosed Tumbarello with long COVID.

Now, Tumbarello has prequalified for a nationwide study aiming to learn more about long COVID and design treatment and prevention programs. Sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, the study will test up to 11 combinations of treatments for long COVID. Organizers are not looking for a cure for COVID. They aim to learn why long COVID happens, both to stop future cases and to help those already experiencing debilitating symptoms.

NIH is committed to a highly coordinated and scientifically rigorous approach to find treatments that will provide relief for the millions of people living with long COVID, said acting NIH director Lawrence Tabak.

NorthShore-Edward-Elmhurst Health has become one of the studys four primary sites  and NorthShore doctors are actively recruiting participants.

NIH researchers picked primary sites based on proximity to communities heavily affected by long COVID. Access to relevant medical equipment, the expertise of nearby doctors and strong track records of diversity in local clinical trials also played a role.

The first phase of the study, which included 24,000 patients, involved observing people with long COVID to see when and why symptoms develop. Phase two, now starting at NorthShore, includes three clinical trials targeting cognitive dysfunction, sleep issues and viral particles.

Up to 40,000 people could participate in the study overall, some for up to four years. The entire initiative will receive $1.15 billion in congressional funding over four years, $811 million of which has already been allocated.

Some patients will receive either extended doses of Paxlovid or a placebo in the Recover-Vital clinical trial, meant to eliminate the lingering presence of SARS-CoV-2 viral matter in the body. Paxlovid is already used to treat some short-term COVID cases, but this trial will test whether the drug could also keep the virus from causing long-term damage to organs and the immune system.

The Recover-Neuro section of the trials will address brain fog, memory problems and other neurological symptoms of long COVID. Some participants will use online programs meant to boost cognitive and executive functioning. Others will undergo transcranial stimulation, where small electric currents are sent through the brain to improve blood flow.

The third section of the trials, Recover-Sleep, will compare two different medications that could be used to stop excessive daytime sleepiness. Other proven interventions for problems falling or staying asleep will be tested in groups.

A fourth section, Recover-Autonomic, will take place at other sites. The trial will test different combinations of medications to help symptoms related to the autonomic nervous system, controlling automatic processes in the body.

The studys first patient, Evanston resident Jobi Cates, started in the Recover-Vital clinical trial last week.

Cates, 52, contracted COVID for the first time in March 2023. What felt like a bad cold developed into a heavy feeling that reminded Cates of pneumonia. Within a month, her heart was racing constantly, an early sign of long COVID.

Cates took an extended leave from her job as executive director at a criminal justice nonprofit. However, radical rest was only so effective against what was eventually diagnosed as long COVID. Cates was also diagnosed with POTS, an autonomic nervous system disease causing heart, hormone and blood flow issues.

In the early months of long COVID, Cates didnt leave her apartment. She couldnt drive, prepare meals, sit upright at her computer or talk on the phone for more than 20 minutes. While heart medication has helped, her walks are limited to a block or two and her social contact is severely restricted.

My life as I knew it before is over, Cates said. Hopefully I get some of it back someday.

Long COVID can be difficult to identify, as symptoms vary widely, said Dr. Nirav Shah, the studys primary investigator at the Edward-Elmhurst sites. Many patients are essentially disabled by the time they are diagnosed, and remedies are sparse.

Shah, an infectious disease specialist at NorthShore, hopes the Recover trials at Edward-Elmhurst will bring some long-awaited relief for Chicagoland patients.

Our system is really excited, Shah said, especially the clinicians who have been taking care of long COVID patients.

More recent strains of COVID seem to lead to long COVID less frequently, Shah said. Hispanic adults, as well as bisexual and transgender adults, tend to develop long COVID more frequently.

Both Cates and Tumbarello were fully vaccinated before contracting COVID this year.

Edward-Elmhurst Health includes eight hospitals across six counties. Shah leads a team of nine health care professionals from NorthShore who are organizing the study. Other NorthShore doctors are actively recruiting their own patients.

Being recruited directly made a huge difference, Cates said.

Trying to get into (a long COVID clinic or study) is a task that I dont necessarily have the energy for at this point, Cates said. I dont have the energy to do even 1/100th of what I used to do in a day.

The team initially reached out to 2,000 potential long COVID patients in the Chicago area, Shah said. Between 50 and 75 people responded.

I think a lot of people are really desperate for treatment options in a space where there hasnt been many, Shah said.

Prequalifying for the study mostly involved speaking with the study team about her symptoms. Tumbarello said. For her, brain fog has been a particular issue.

Some days, I just have trouble putting the words together, Tumbarello said. If you havent had COVID, theres no way to describe it.

Tumbarello has been on medical leave from her job as an executive assistant since June. Her brain fog makes it difficult to get out of bed in the morning, she said, much less manage multimillion-dollar contracts.

Cates, too, experiences debilitating brain fog. Her worst days, she said, remind her of when one of her parents was in the early stages of Alzheimers disease.

When I do get fatigued and sometimes even when Im not, my brain gets very foggy and cloudy so I cant always think or talk the way I used to, Cates said.

Residents who think they may have long COVID and are interested in participating in the study can reach out to Edward-Elmhurst Health after consulting with their doctor, Shah said.

Cates and Tumbarello both encourage others to apply and to continue raising awareness for the trial.

As much as Ive lost from this, Im still hopeful, Cates said. All around Chicago, there are good people who, once they find out about long COVID, do whatever they can to try to help.

The clinical trial team can be reached at idresearch@northshore.org or 224-364-7971.

Photos: Illinois State Fair political days through the years 2012 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2015 State Fair 2007 State Fair 2008 State Fair 2008 State Fair 2009 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2005 State Fair 2004 State Fair 2003 State Fair 2003 State Fair 2006 State Fair 2007 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2018 State Fair 2012 State Fair 2021 State Fair 2021 State Fair 2021 State Fair 2021 State Fair
Spearman High School Celebrates Students Awarded with Academic Honors from College Board National Recognition Programs

Pictured L-R: Avren Delozier, Marissa Grajeda, Cady Barrett, Julie Macias, and Landrie Black

Awards recognize high-performing students and help them stand out to colleges



Spearman, Texas  Students at Spearman High School earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs. These programs celebrate students' hard work in high school and showcase their strong academic performance. The academic honors for rural area, Black, Indigenous, and/or Latino students are an opportunity for students to share their strong academic achievements with colleges and scholarship programs that are seeking to recruit diverse talent.



At Spearman High School, six students received the academic honor:



Cady Barrett - National Rural and Small-Town Award (NRSTA)

Elyse Beck  National Rural and Small-Town Award (NRSTA)

Landrie Black  National Rural and Small-Town Award (NRSTA)

Marissa Grajeda  National Rural and Small-Town Award (NRSTA)

Julie Macias  National Rural and Small-Town Award (NRSTA)

Avren Delozier - National Hispanic Recognition Award (NHRA)



Were thrilled to celebrate our students and recognize them for the great work theyve been doing. Were proud of their strong academic performance in the classroom and on College Board assessments like the PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, and AP exams, said Krista Baird, high school counselor. Theres so much that makes our students unique, and receiving this honor reinforces this as an asset for their future.



The criteria for eligible students include:

 GPA of 3.5 or higher.

 PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10 assessment scores that are within the top 10% of assessment takers in each state for each award program or earned a score of 3 or higher on 2 or more AP Exams in 9th and 10th grade.

 Attend school in a rural area or small town, or identify as African American/Black, Hispanic American/Latino, or Indigenous/Native.



Eligible students are invited to apply on BigFuture during their sophomore or junior year and are awarded at the start of the next school year in time to share their achievements in high school as they plan for the future. At the same time, colleges and organizations using College Boards Student Search Service can connect directly with awardees during the recruitment process.



Its becoming increasingly hard for students to be seen during the college recruitment process. Were exceptionally proud of the National Recognition Programs for celebrating students who are at times overlooked but have shown their outstanding academic abilities, said Tarlin Ray, senior vice president of BigFuture at College Board. This is a benefit not only for students but also for colleges and universities committed to recruiting diverse and talented students.






County Judge Awarded At TARC Meeting Hill County Judge Justin Lewis was recognized with a statewide award during the Texas Association of Regional Councils (TARC) annual board meeting held in Austin Friday, September 8.



Lewis received the Wilbur R. Dunk Regional Leadership Award, which is presented to an elected official in the state each year who TARC determines has shown extraordinary dedication to the purposes of and responsibilities for regional cooperation through councils of government.



For the complete story, see the Thursday, September 14, edition of The Reporter Newspaper.


" " General George Washington resigns his commission as Commander-in-Chief of the Army to the Congress, on Dec. 23, 1783. This action was of great significance in establishing of civilian rather than military rule, leading to democracy rather than a dictatorship or monarchy. This painting hangs in the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol. Joye~(CC BY 2.0)

There's a popular yarn among American history buffs that George Washington, in the waning months of the Revolutionary War, was "offered the crown" of the fledgling nation by a group of American military officers fed up with an ineffective Congress. Historians even have Washington's strongly worded rejection letter to prove it.

But a closer reading of original historical documents tells a different story. In this version, the widespread frustration of army officers gets mixed up with the pro-monarchy daydreams of one foolhardy colonel. Washington still comes out a hero, but he was never really close to being a king.

Advertisement

To set the scene, the British suffered a decisive defeat at Yorktown to American and French forces in 1781, resulting in the capture of 7,000 British troops and their leader, General Charles Cornwallis. The end of the war was finally near, but the beleaguered American Army, under the command of Washington, was still considered "on duty" until the Treaty of Paris was signed in 1783.

Back in those pre-Constitution days, the Articles of Confederation handed most power to the states, not the federal government. Congress had no power to tax, for example, which was a problem when it came to paying and equipping the army. Congress had to constantly request military funding from the states, which were often slow to pay up, if at all.

With peace nearly won, the army feared that Congress was going to stiff them on back pay. The officer corps were especially worried about their pensions, which they were promised would secure them financially for the rest of their lives. Could they trust Congress to keep its word and exact payment from the states?

Among the army officers sweating over his pension in 1782 was Colonel Lewis Nicola, a 65-year-old, Irish-born military veteran who lent significant expertise to Washington's forces during the war. Nicola and Washington corresponded frequently, usually about Nicola's duties as commander of the Invalid Corps, a garrison of injured soldiers who were still fit enough to serve.

But Nicola's letter to Washington on May 22, 1872 was something completely different. In this now infamous missive, Nicola opened with a reminder of what's at stake if the military wasn't properly compensated. Namely, the threat of open mutiny.

"God forbid we should ever think of involving that country we have, under your conduct & auspices, rescued from oppression, into a new scene of blood & confusion; but it cannot be expected we should forego claims on which our future subsistence & that of our families depend," wrote Nicola.

Then Nicola moved on to what he called his "scheme." He admitted to Washington that he wasn't a "violent admirer of a republican form of government," preferring instead a mixed form of government with elected representatives ruled by a benevolent monarch. And who better for such a leading role than Washington himself?

"... the same abilities which have lead us, through difficulties apparently insurmountable by human power, to victory & glory, those qualities that have merited & obtained the universal esteem & veneration of an army, would be most likely to conduct & direct us in the smoother paths of peace," wrote Nicola.

"Some people have so connected the ideas of tyranny & monarchy as to find it very difficult to separate them, it may therefore be requisite to give the head of such a constitution as I propose, some title apparently more moderate, but if all other things were once adjusted I believe strong arguments might be produced for admitting the title of king, which I conceive would be attended with some material advantages."

Washington's response, dated the very same day, was withering.

"Be assured Sir, no occurrence in the course of the War, has given me more painful sensations than your information of there being such ideas existing in the Army as you have expressed, and I must view with abhorrence, and reprehend with severity," wrote Washington.

"I am much at a loss to conceive what part of my conduct could have given encouragement to an address which to me seems big with the greatest mischiefs that can befall my Country. If I am not deceived in the knowledge of myself, you could not have found a person to whom your schemes are more disagreeable."

Washington's rejection of an American monarchy was absolute, but was a single letter from a presumptuous colonel the equivalent of being "offered the crown," as many believe?

Denver Brunsman, a history professor at George Washington University and scholar of the Revolutionary War and Washington, says that it would be an "exaggeration" to say that Washington was ever seriously offered the title of king.

"Nicola was not someone who was in the position to do that and I don't think he was part of any real, large movement," says Brunsman. "That doesn't mean there weren't people who had those sentiments and I think Nicola was representative of that. There were other individuals in the officer corps who were extremely frustrated with Congress and any hope for a possible solution."

"What's most important is Washington's reaction to even the notion [of being king]. He shuts down any possibility. I think that's impressive and shows why Washington was able to garner the trust of the American people."

Now That's Cool Nicola's letter is an interesting blip in American history, but a far more serious threat to the young republic was the Newburgh Conspiracy of 1783, as close as the American army came to a coup. Again, Washington quashed the mutiny by reminding his officers what they had fought for. In a stirring address, "Washington basically gave them a civics lesson," says Brunsman. "There's an appropriate way to do this in a republic, and this isn't it."
The need for more and higher value crops, as well as developmental pressure, has pushed agricultural land values to record high levels. Thats true for farm real estate, cropland, and pastureland.

The National Agricultural Statistics Services (NASS) Land Values 2023 Summary released in August reported that average farm real estate value in the U.S., which covers all land and buildings on a farm, climbed $280 to reach $4,080 per acre. That was a 7.4% jump over a 2022 value that was $420 higher than 2021. A decade ago in 2013, the average farm real estate value was $2,730 per acre.

The most expensive agricultural land is found in states with little land remaining for development. Rhode Island tops the group at $18,300 per acre and is followed by New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.

After those four states, agricultural land is most valuable ($12,400 per acre) in California, which produces a large volume and variety of high-value and specialty crops. Iowa, Illinois, and Indiana are the heartland states that follow by clocking in at more than $9,000 per acre. Back on the East Coast, so do Delaware and Maryland.

The cheapest agricultural land can be found in New Mexico ($610 per acre), Wyoming ($880), Nevada ($1,060), and Montana ($1,070).

Compared to last year, Kansas saw the most significant jump in agricultural land value, rising 16% to reach $3,060 per acre. New Jersey, Indiana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Colorado, and Georgia were the other states that realized a double-digit percentage gain in value.

When drilling down specifically to cropland, acreage values rose 8.1% in 2023 to reach $5,460 and followed a similar trend as real estate when looking at state values. Ten years ago, the average U.S. cropland value was $3,810 per acre.

Pastureland is also more expensive. After several years of stable prices, 2021 and 2022 saw significant gains that are now furthered by a 6.7% climb in 2023 that pushes pastureland to $1,760 per acre. In contrast to the real estate and cropland trends, many of the states with the highest pastureland values are on the East Coast.

Reflecting these upward trajectories, NASS data shows that farmers who rent are paying their landlords more for agricultural land use. Average cash rent for cropland rose 4.7% to $155 per acre in 2023 ($237 for irrigated land and $142 for non-irrigated land), and pastureland cash rent climbed 7.7% to $15 per acre.

For farmers who own their land, this steady rise in value is good news to build equity. But for young and beginning farmers, it is another challenge. Land access is already often cited as the top barrier to entry for new farmers, and rising prices due to demand and development exacerbate that problem.

To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com.

(c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2023

September 11, 2023
In 2013, people were celebrating the birth of Prince George and the appointment of Pope Francis, watching Frozen, and enjoying Taylor Swift in her Red era.

In the dairy industry in 2013, the legendary Bing. Bang. Boom. rang out in the World Dairy Expo showring as KHW Regiment Apple-Red-ET stood Reserve Grand Champion to her Grand Champion clone, Apple-3, in the International Red and White Show. The average genomic Net Merit (NM$) of marketed Holstein bulls was just shy of +100. The first genomic evaluation was introduced for Ayrshires. Ten years ago, there were fewer than one million genotypes in the national cooperator database. Today, there are just shy of eight million.

Recognizing the state of dairy a decade ago is significant when we consider the genetic progress and enhancements achieved since the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB) began providing genetic services fueled by precompetitive collaboration.

In 2013, CDCB assumed the responsibility of calculating U.S. genetic evaluations from USDAs Animal Genomics and Improvement Laboratory (AGIL), making CDCB the steward of the national cooperator database. This transition from a government body to a third-party, non-profit organization was possible and successful through pre-competitive collaboration across the industry. There was trust between entities, built on decades of collaboration around the milk recording and genetic evaluation systems. They recognized the continued need for independent and trustworthy U.S. genetic evaluations.

Strong movement ahead

Fast forward to 2023. Our system that provides genetic and genomic evaluations remains pre-competitive among organizations that have producers top-of-mind. This collaboration includes dairy record providers, dairy record processing centers, members of the National Association of Animal Breeders, members of the Purebred Dairy Cattle Association, and genomic nominators.

Throughout the past decade, this collaboration has enabled CDCB and AGIL to develop and publish new traits like Feed Saved, Heifer Livability, and resistance to diseases. Breed Base Representation opened the door for crossbred evaluations, and the quality of genomic testing data was enhanced through CDCB certification requirements for genotyping labs and genomic nominators.

When the global dairy community meets in Madison, Wis., for World Dairy Expo this fall, CDCB will host its ninth annual industry meeting. The meeting will be Wednesday, October 4 from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. in The Tanbark and is free for all to attend. CDCB requests attendees register for planning purposes.

Presenters will recap the genetic advancements of the past decade while sharing work-in-progress that impacts the next 10 years. The morning kicks off with a message from CDCB CEO Joao Durr titled, Impact of the national cooperator database on dairy cattle genetic progress and a 10th anniversary recognition.

Midway through, a panel takes the stage to better understand genetic mutations in cattle and genomics role in discovery. This conversation, moderated by Neal Smith of the American Jersey Cattle Association, will include panelists Paul VanRaden of AGIL, Spencer Hackett of Melarry Farms, Matthew McClure of ABS Global, and Rich (J.R.) Tait Jr. of Neogen.

The meeting will conclude with a look to the future through current research being conducted at AGIL, at CDCB, and funded by CDCB at institutions across the country. This research includes a focus on milking speed, mobility/lameness, feed efficiency, and methane emissions.

For more information about speakers, a complete schedule, and to register, click here. We look forward to seeing you at the 2023 CDCB industry meeting, A Decade of CDCB: Genetic Advancement Through Pre-Competitive Collaboration on Wednesday, October 4, in The Tanbark!

To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com.

(c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2023

September 11, 2023
The unprecedented dairy boom of 2022 gave way to the inevitable bust in 2023. Although no one expected sky-high milk prices to persist into this year, the speed and severity of the setback blindsided dairy producers. Class III milk slumped to $13.77 per hundredweight (cwt.) in July.

Relentless expansion in the Midwest cheese states and new cheese processing capacity came at a heavy cost. In the first half of the year, U.S. Cheddar output jumped 3.8% from 2022 volumes and cheese values dropped. Excess milk sloshed around the heartland, and producers paid the price in the form of dumped milk, deeply discounted tanker loads, and elevated freight costs.

At the same time, global trade slowed. Sharp inclines in Chinese milk production and a hefty whole milk powder (WMP) stockpile allowed Chinese buyers to take a big step back. From January through July, Chinese WMP imports plunged to their lowest level since 2016. With their primary customer on the sidelines, exporters in New Zealand sought new markets and slashed prices to keep product moving, displacing milk powder from Europe, South America, and the United States. WMP values fell to a seven-year low at the Global Dairy Trade auction in August. Kiwi processors shifted milk away from WMP into skim milk powder and butter, depressing prices for those products as well.

Fortunately, Mexicos appetite for U.S. dairy remained robust. In the first half of the year, the United States sent 25% more dairy products south of the border than it did during the same period in 2022.

Domestic demand also impressed. In the first half of 2023, Americans consumed 0.9% more cheese, 7.1% more milk powder, 8.7% more butter, and 10.6% more whey than they did last year. Formidable demand for milk powder in North America and a stubbornly strong butter market helped shield Class IV prices from the worst of the declines seen abroad, but they did not escape unscathed. After scoring an all-time high of $25.83 in June 2022, Class IV dropped to $17.95 in April.

Today, the futures are hovering in the $18 to $19 range. Thats better than what might have been, but it does not herald a swift return to prosperity on the farm. Further recovery is likely in 2024, but it will depend on some combination of slower U.S. milk output and stronger export prospects.

Questions about dairy exports

The outlook for global dairy exports is murky. In Europe, consumers are feeling the pinch of higher prices. Europeans are spending 14% more on groceries than they did at this time last year. Theyre paying more for other goods, too, and family budgets are strained. Some shoppers may be forced to buy less cheese and butter than they would like. If European dairy demand falls short, European exporters will aggressively pursue other markets.

Dairy exporters in South America, including Argentina and Uruguay, have thrived thanks to strong demand from Brazil. But Brazilian milk production is on the rise, and imports are expected to wane. Argentina and Uruguay are already dropping their milk powder prices, hoping to attract new buyers.

In New Zealand  and in the dairy industry at large  everything depends on China. Chinas population is aging and shrinking, suggesting incremental declines in dairy demand. The economy looks feeble, with burdensome household debt, alarming levels of youth unemployment, and shaky consumer confidence. Thats likely to limit Chinese dairy imports in the short term.

On the other hand, Chinese milk production is growing at a slower clip than it did in 2020 through 2022, and China has likely dug into its WMP stockpiles. Chinese dairy consumption per capita has room to grow significantly. In the long run, Chinese demand for dairy is expected to climb more quickly than Chinese milk production, creating opportunities for exporters.



Fewer cows in the U.S.

The outlook for U.S. milk production is more straightforward. The industry is awash in red ink, and the dairy herd is shrinking. Milk output fell short of year-ago volumes in July and likely in August, too.

This summer, dairy profit margins dropped to their lowest levels in more than a decade. In places where feed costs were especially high or where regional surpluses cut deep into milk checks, many producers suffered greater losses than they did in 2009. The markets screamed at dairy producers to boost cull rates, and record-setting beef prices amplified the message. The beef industry is short of cattle, which will support dairy heifer, cull cow, and calf values throughout 2024 and into 2025.

Lofty beef prices are trimming the dairy herd from both ends. Adjusted for seasonal trends, dairy producers are frequently sending more cows to slaughter than they have since 1986, when the government paid producers to cull their cows and exit the industry. Soaring beef values have also pushed dairy producers to create more crossbred beef calves and fewer dairy heifers. U.S. dairy heifer head counts have fallen for seven straight years, and theyll drop again in 2024.

The milk cow herd is shrinking, and it will continue to do so until on-farm margins recover. It will be a long time before U.S. dairy producers have the appetite  or the capital  to expand. Even then, tight heifer supplies will limit growth.

Tough times around the world

Foreign dairy producers are also feeling the strain of elevated expenses and falling revenue. European milk output is holding above year-ago levels, but pay prices are in retreat and milk collections top last years volumes by increasingly slim margins. While milk yields are up, cow numbers are dropping year after year. In New Zealand, its too early to draw conclusions about the 2023-24 season, but producers are discouraged by several cuts to forecasted pay prices and increasingly strict environmental regulations.

Pain on the farm has set the stage for slow growth  or perhaps outright declines  in milk production among the worlds major dairy exporters. This suggests that milk and dairy product prices will hold well above the painfully low prices that plagued the industry this summer.

If Chinese demand falls short of the markets already low expectations, milk prices will likely take a small step back from todays uninspiring levels. But if Chinese imports start to climb, or if other importers pick up the pace, both Class III and Class IV values could shoot upward.

Dairy producers have endured a long, hard year. The next one promises to be much, much better.
Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, said that digital skilling is the key and the government is building Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) towards that goal to prepare millions of young Indians for the tech-driven jobs of the future. Addressing the Skill India Digital event, where the government launched the Skill India Digital portal to benefit every citizen of the country, especially the students and youth above 15 years of age, the minister said that after the global recognition of DPIs during the G20 Summit, the government is now building DPIs in digital skilling for young Indians.This DPI is at the intersection of two of the most important components of Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision, Skill India and Digital India," he said. In this post-Covid world, there is tremendous awareness about the importance of digital skilling. This DPI is aimed at developing skills for both entrepreneurship and jobs, Chandrasekhar told the gathering. At the event, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, along with Chandrasekhar, launched Skill India Digital, a state-of-the-art digital platform to bring all skilling initiatives together.Last week, Chandrasekhar said that the whole world is discovering the extraordinary strides India has made in technology, as G20 nations pledged to build a global DPI based on the countrys model. The global recognition of Indias DPI like the unified payments interface (UPI) and Aadhaar has demolished the old normals. Today, the whole world is discovering the extraordinary strides we've made in technology, using Digital Public Infrastructure to transform governance and the lives of citizens, he said. The G20 leaders have committed to adopt, build and maintain Global Digital Public Infrastructure and also agreed to foster a wholesome and safe digital ecosystem and a resilient global digital economy.
It is a story of an inspiring woman who defied the odds. Pearls son, Calvin L. Asbury, wrote the book about his mothers life from growing up in rural North Carolina. It details her life from the loss of her mother at age 7, a teen pregnancy and across the Civil Rights Movement and the many things that happened during her life.
All Peoples Church of Jesus Christ

Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 10 a.m. Sunday at American Legion Post 172. Pastor: Prophet Roland Jordan. Sermon: Jesus Christ Newborn Child of God. Scriptures Matthew 10:41 and St. John 13:34.

Ann Street United Methodist Church

335 Ann St., Concord. Pastor: Rev. Randy L. Wall. In-person and Facebook Live worship at 11 a.m. Sermon: Whats Right with the Church: How We Work. Scripture: I Corinthians 12:4-6, 12-31.

Bethpage United Methodist Church

109 Fellowship Ave. at W. C St., Kannapolis. 704-932-5296. Pastor: Rev. McKenzie Sefa. Christian education at 9 a.m. Worship at 10 a.m.

Bogers Chapel United Methodist Church

1775 Flowes Store Road East, Concord. Pastor: Pastor Eric Shaver. Sunday school at 9 a.m. Worship in-person, Facebook, or YouTube, at 10 a.m. Homecoming Sunday and covered dish. Opening reading: For Around Table (from the Lives We Actually Live by Kate Bowler and Jessica Ritchie). Message and scripture by visiting Pastor Brett Chappell.

Calvary Lutheran Church

950 Bradley St., Concord. 704-782-6923. Pastor: Rev. Debbie Frye. Outdoor in-person worship at 8:30 a.m. (Outdoor Chapel) and 11 a.m. (traditional worship with Childrens Church). Coffee/cookie social 9:30-11 a.m. Sunday school for all ages at 9:45 a.m. Childrens Area and nursery available at all times. All services live-streamed and available anytime on the Calvary Lutheran Concord YouTube channel  easy access through our website http://www.clconcord.org or church app Calvary Lutheran Church  NC. All are welcome. Sermon Series: Is Your God Big Enough? Sermon Topic: Forgiveness Unleashed.

Center United Methodist Church

1119 Union St. S, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Brian Crady. Sunday school for in betweens and young adults at 9 a.m. Worship at 10 a.m. Nursery is provided during the worship service. Website is www.centerumcconcord.org. Look forward to you joining us for our service! Sermon: Gods Church is Known by Living Gods Love. Scripture: John 13:31-35; Romans 12:9-21.

Cold Springs Global Methodist Church

2550 Cold Springs Road, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Cliff Wall. Worship at 10 a.m. on Sundays. Visit online at https://youtube.com/@coldspringschurchconcord.

Crossroads Church

220 George W. Liles Parkway, Concord. Pastor: Lowell McNaney. Live worship streamed on Facebook, Crossroads Concord Church app or mycrossroads.co website at 9:30 a.m. and 11:11 a.m.

Crown Pointe Baptist Church

703 Tennessee St., Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Doug Crawley. Sunday school at 9 a.m. Worship at 10 a.m. in the sanctuary, or view online at our Facebook page. Series: Revival: Stronger Than Ever. Sermon: Guest Speaker: Jimmy Barrett, associate missionary, Cabarrus Baptist Association.

Eastside Missionary Baptist Church

199 Elgin Drive, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Stephen Burrow. In-person services: Sunday school 9:30 a.m. Worship services 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Recorded worship services and other information at EastsideMissionaryBaptist.org. You will be welcomed. Practice social distancing.

Epworth United Methodist Church

1030 Burrage Road NE, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Dennis Marshall. Sunday school at 9 a.m., followed by worship at 10 a.m. We welcome all to join us in person, or you may livestream or watch the recorded service at our website at www.epworthnc.com.

Forest Hill United Methodist Church

265 Union St. N., Concord. Rev. Mandy Jones, senior pastor; Rev. Wes Judy, associate pastor. We are open for in-person worship. Contemporary worship, 9 a.m. Sunday school/small groups  10 a.m. Traditional worship  11 a.m. Both the contemporary and the traditional worship services will also be live-streamed at foresthillumc.org or facebook.com/foresthillumc, in case you dont feel like being here in person.

Harmony United Methodist Church

101 White St., NW, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Thad Brown. Sunday school is at 10 a.m. followed by our worship service in the sanctuary at 11 a.m. Sermon: The Anointing: The Mind. Scripture: I John 2:15-17, Genesis 19:23-26, Ephesians 6:12-13, I John 2:18-19, Romans 13:11-14, John 2:20-23, Jude (verse) 5-7, I John 2:24-27, I Corinthians 2:9-16. We welcome you to join us in worship! Service is live on Facebook.com/HarmonyUnitedMethodistChurch and we welcome all who are unable to join us in person to worship with us online. For more information, you can call the pastors phone, 704-791-2883 or the churchs phone, 704-782-8237.

Jackson Park United Methodist Church

715 Mable Ave., Kannapolis. Pastor Laurie Knoespel. Adult Sunday school 9:30 a.m. Worship at 10:30 a.m. Nursery will be provided during worship service.

Kirkwood Presbyterian Church

900 Klondale Ave., Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Dennis B. Craft. Worship at 11 a.m. in church sanctuary on Sundays. No mask restrictions.

McGill Baptist Church

5300 Poplar Tent Road, Concord, in-person services. Pastor: Rev. Steve Ayers. If you have not taken the COVID-19 vaccine, please wear a mask. McGill will stream a worship service Sunday at 10 a.m. on www.facebook.com/mcgillbaptistchurch/ and on YouTube. The services will be live and also available on recording afterwards. Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Sermon: The Power of Forgiveness. Scripture: Genesis 50:15-21; Romans 14:1-12; Matthew 18:21-35.

Midway United Methodist Church

108 Bethpage Road, Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Craig Allen. Come join us on Sunday morning at 9 a.m. for Sunday school and 10:30 a.m. for worship. Our service is also livestreamed on the web at midwayunitedmethodistchurch.org or facebook.com/midwayUMC. Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Sermon: As We Forgive Those Who... First Reading: Romans 14:1-12. Second Reading: Matthew 18:21-35. Suggested hymns: UMH 170, O How I Love Jesus; UMH 389, Freely, Freely.

Mt. Mitchell United Methodist Church

6001 Old Salisbury-Concord Road, Kannapolis. Pastor: Joel Locklear. Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. (Adult and Children classes.) Worship at 11 a.m. in person or Facebook.

Multiply Church Concord

150 Warren C. Coleman Blvd. N., Concord. Pastor: Rev. Douglas Witherup. 8:30 a.m. service held at 280 Concord Parkway S., Suite 15, Concord. Services at 150 Warren C. Coleman Blvd. N., are worship and sermon at 9:30 a.m. and worship and sermon at 11:15 a.m.

New Gilead Reformed Church, ECO

2400 Old Salisbury-Concord Road. 9:40 a.m.  Adult Bible study. 10 a.m.  Sunday school. 11 a.m.  Worship in the sanctuary, also live on Facebook.

Oak Grove Baptist Church

200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. Pastor: Rev. Franklin D. Watkins. 10 a.m. In-person worship service and Facebook Live and YouTube Live.

Second Presbyterian Church

1578 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Kannapolis. Pastor Sue Black, minister. Rev. Aaron Price, assistant pastor. Sunday school at 10 a.m. Worship at 11 a.m. Sermon: On to Nineveh. Scripture: Jonah Chapter 3.

St. Johns Reformed Church

901 N. Main St., Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Chris King. Sunday school for all ages, 9:30 a.m. Worship service, 10:30 a.m. Website: www.ourstjohns.org. Email/Phone: ourstjohns@gmail.com / 704-932-3656. Sermon: Our Primary Motivation. Scripture: John 7:1-8.

Trinity United Church of Christ

38 Church St., Concord. Pastor: Rev. Nathan King. Worship at 11 a.m., in person or Facebook live. Website: commachurch.com. Sermon: Dance It Out by Rev. Dr. Cathy Cook. Youre invited!
Parimal Pandya: "Akamais agility to meet changing market conditions is testament to our ability to continuously innovate and stay relevant to customers."

Global cloud security and content delivery network Akamai Technologies has completed 20 years of operations in the Asia-Pacific region and Japan,and says it it bullish about the future as customer demand continues to grow.

A statement said the company was also celebrating 25 years globally, and had extended its services to offer cloud computing this year.

The company has more than 2000 customers in the APJ, including Seven West Media, Tokopedia, Hotstar, DAZN Group, SBS, China Merchants Securities, Xero, The Pokemon Group, and Mediacorp.

Parimal Pandya, vice-president, Sales, and managing director, Akamai, Asia-Pacific & Japan, said: :Our goal is to empower businesses to better control their costs in areas like cloud, and build and deploy solutions that help them achieve and maintain customer excellence to drive profitable growth.

"Akamais agility to meet changing market conditions is testament to our ability to continuously innovate and stay relevant to customers.

"As we celebrate 20 years of Akamai in APJ, we are excited to usher in a new era of technology and are ready to solve the biggest business challenges facing our customers so they can successfully navigate economic and other roadblocks in future.

In the year just completed, Akamai says it formed strategic alliances with Fujitsu (Australia) and Wangsu (China), building on existing partnerships that include Telstra (Australia), NTT (India), CTC (Japan), and Telin (Indonesia).

Akamai recently acquired StackPath so it could extend its standard offerings and support to customers looking for an enterprise solution to their content delivery, cyber-security and cloud computing needs.

It has also completed a definitive agreement to acquire Neosec, an API detection and response platform based on data and behavioural analytics, which it claims complements its own API security portfolio by extending visibility into the rapidly growing API threat landscape.

The company has also acquired cloud storage company Ondat, cloud hosting provider Linode, and micro-segmentation technology specialist Guardicore.

Akamai claims it has created more than 3200 jobs in 14 countries in the region and says it will increase hiring to meet the growing customer requirements in cloud computing, security, and content delivery.
The joint venture of Vodafone Germany and cable television company Altice, OXG Galsfager, has begun to lay its fibre optic lines to deliver fibre to up to seven million homes over a six-year period, an investment which could reach 7 billion.

According to reports, the joint venture, which was announced last October last year, and was given the green light by the European Commission last March, will focus 80% of the roll out on buildings within Vodafones hybrid fibre cable network and the rest will be outside of it.

Vodafone says the fibre deployment will include connecting homes through node splitting and Docsis 3.1 high split that can provide download speeds of over 3Gbps.

Rollout begun in the city of Neuss in Western Germany where OXG excavator are laying down the fibre to build FTTH network for over 28,000 homes and enterprises. In the coming weeks, according to reports, rollout will commence in Dusseldorf, Marburg, Duisburg, and Kassel.

A year ago we launched Germanys largest fibre optic alliance. With the vision of building up to seven million new fibre optic connections. Six months ago, the EU Commission gave the green light for our plans. Now the excavators start digging. Today in Neuss and in 150 cities and municipalities by the end of 2024. This gives the fibre optic expansion in Germany a strong boost. At the same time, we are making our cable network even better with additional fibre optics," said Vodafone Germany CEO Philippe Rogge.

We are bringing gigabit internet to cities on our own. We are implementing our expansion without pre-marketing and without a completion quota to be achieved in advance. This creates security  for cities, for municipalities and for all residents. When expanding, our focus is particularly on the housing industry. Our strategy is working: we are receiving very positive feedback from the cities and communities, the housing industry and the owners, said OXG Glasfaser management team member Stefan Ruter.

This first appeared in the subscription newsletter CommsWire on 13 September 2023.
COMPANY NEWS: The company appointed the first Leapwork partner in Australia. Leading advisory and IT solutions provider Atturra Limited (ASX: ATA) today announced a strategic partnership with Leapwork, the visual, AI-powered test automation platform , marking a significant milestone in Atturra's support for managing automation and client workflow processes in Microsoft environments.

Both Atturra and Leapwork proudly share the distinction of being Microsoft partners. Atturra will soon achieve all six Microsoft partner solution designations, showcasing its expertise and versatility. In alignment with this achievement, Leapwork has strategically partnered with Microsoft to elevate the experiences with Dynamics 365 and Power Platform. This strategic collaboration empowers Leapwork to offer state-of-the-art visual test automation solutions, endorsed by Microsoft for their efficacy in ensuring business continuity amid rapid software delivery cycles. These partnerships underscore both companies' integral roles in driving and refining the Dynamics and Power Platform ecosystem.

Additionally, the partnership will empower Atturra's Dynamics 365 and Power Platform clients to seamlessly automate tests, processes, and critical business applications using Leapwork's code-free technology. This innovation solution optimises testing automation and workflows across various applications within and beyond Dynamics 365 and Power Platform environments.

Implementing this integrated, continuous testing approach across applications plays a pivotal role in minimising the potential for disruptions during regular software updates. It facilitates the efficient delivery of exceptional outcomes, enabling business users to drive quality assurance and democratise the utilisation of AI.

"We're thrilled to welcome Atturra to the Leapwork partner family as the first partner in Australia," says Luke von Schreiber, Vice President, Global Alliances & Channels at Leapwork.

"As one of the most trusted digital advisors in the region, Atturra's strong end-to-end transformation services and Microsoft expertise make them a perfect fit for Leapwork. Together, we will help customers drive a faster time-to-value in projects and reduce their total cost of software ownership by automating expensive and risk-prone manual testing. Together, Leapwork and Atturra can truly accelerate companies' digital transformation journeys."

"Our collaboration with Leapwork as its first partner in Australia is another foundation pillar in our dedication to serving clients better," says Greg Mace, Executive General Manager, Atturra.

"Leapwork's AI-based technology, coupled with its framework to capture coding and visual interface, reduces testing time for tech teams, provides an extra quality tick during software updates, and supports end-to-end testing, thus enhancing our client's business operations.

"We believe this partnership will give our team and, ultimately, our customers forward-looking testing solutions based on the practical application of AI, which they need to thrive in the years ahead."



While Leapwork's platform integrates seamlessly into existing processes and automates tasks within various platforms, it also helps streamline automation across different systems and industry scenarios.

"This partnership takes AI from being a buzzword to a tangible reality for our customers. Leapwork's AI-powered automation platform provides real-world utility, enabling Atturra to deliver projects faster with minimum effort in maintenance," says Mace.
COMPANY NEWS: Tap, order and pay innovator me&u teams up with hospitality-inspired workspace and employee experience platform Third Place to launch National Work From Hospo Week, a movement uniting and encouraging workers into hospo venues across Australia to eat, drink and work flexibly, to enhance their own mental wellbeing  as well as increase mid-week footfall in venues and kick-start a busy period for our much-loved Aussie hospo industry.

Launching on Monday October 16th and running through to Friday October 20th, #WFHospoWeek will see venues across Australia embrace the fast-growing flexible, hybrid, and remote work economy as the future of work. The initiative will also encourage Aussie workers to embrace a change of scenery, moving away from the isolation of working from home, while enhancing mental health, wellbeing, and productivity.

During #WFHospoWeek, me&u and Third Place will engage hospitality communities to provide practical and revenue-driving solutions to mid-week quiet periods and to capitalise on significant consumer demand from workers seeking convenient and experiential hospitality spaces to work, eat, and collaborate.

Already signed up to participate is a spectacular list of #WFHospo Hubs across metro and regional Australia - all of whom will be welcoming Australian workers into their venue, including:

Sydneys Republic Hotel and Friend in Hand

Melbournes Boatbuilders Yard and Hyatt Centric Melbourne

Brisbanes Coffee Commune, Valley Hops and Milky Lane

Perths Valley Social and Mataya Eatery

Adelaides The Winstow and Curiositeas

Tasmanias Mt Gnom Gnom

Gold Coasts The Island

Wollongongs Humber

Newcastles Crystalbrook Kingsley

Grand Spicers Hidden Vale in Grandchester

Geelongs Cafe Savvy

Some of these venues will also be putting on a selection of worker-friendly menu specials and experiences throughout the week, with more details to be announced.

#WFHospoWeek comes after 2022 research from me&u revealing that Aussies want pubs to play a changing role in their lives, with 28% looking for flexible 'work from venue' options and adaptable day-to-night or family facilities.

Moreover, 2023 research from Third Place, in collaboration with Swinburne University, found that workers typically utilise 'third place' hospitality venues two to three times per week for an average of one to three hours, spending more than $30 per person on these occasions, and often return with family and friends to spend more. Additionally, the research revealed that 86% of workers find third-place hospitality spaces contribute positively to overall wellbeing, and 98% would continue to use and spend money at these spaces for work in the future.

Katrina Barry, CEO of me&u, said, Following the pandemic, we have witnessed a shift in the way Australians perceive and interact with hospitality venues. The pub has become more than a place to blow off steam on a Friday night, with many new trends emerging, one of these being Australian consumers seeking to use third places as workspaces, embracing the new future of remote work in a post-pandemic world.

We also recognize that driving mid-week revenue can be challenging for venues. That's where #WFHospoWeek comes in, presenting a stellar opportunity to integrate third places into the future work norm. This initiative allows venues to diversify their revenue streams and boost earnings during typically slow periods. We wholeheartedly invite businesses throughout Australia to embrace the #WFHospoWeek movement, open their doors and welcome Aussie workers into their venues during the week.

We couldnt be more excited to partner with Third Place to bring #WFHospoWeek to life and get Aussies into their locale to benefit both the venues in question as well as the mental wellbeing of workers.

Paul Veltman, Chief Growth Officer and Co-Founder of Third Place said: After the success of our #WFHospo initiative last year, were thrilled to expand the initiative into #WFHospo week with the brilliant team at me&u.

In a recent study conducted in collaboration with Swinburne University, we found that working from a third place not only provides workers with a crucial mental reset but also bolsters their creativity and focus. An impressive 86% of respondents noted that working from third places has a positive effect on their overall well-being.

It's incredibly exciting to anticipate thousands of professionals from all over Australia networking, collaborating, and supporting the amazing hospitality venues in each state. This marks a momentous step towards revolutionising our work environments. We wholeheartedly invite Aussie corporates and their teams to embrace the #WFHospoWeek movement and enjoy the laptop-friendly venues across the country.

#WFHospo Week commences in venues across Australia from Monday, October 16th, until Friday, October 20th. To learn more about how to participate as a venue and register interest, head here.
MVSI developed and operates a proprietary SaaS based end-to-end client onboarding platform, OnBoard, which provides rapid onboarding capabilities for financial services companies that are required to undertake credit, risk and KYC/AML verifications on their business clients. MVSI operates globally, has a blue-chip customer base, strong revenue growth and an increasing pipeline of opportunities worldwide.

Commenting on the transaction, Microequities (ASX:MAM) Chief Investment Officer, Carlos Gil said This is exactly the type of business that we look for in our Private to Beyond the IPO Fund. MVSI is the market leader in onboarding for the payments industry in Australia and has reached that point with minimal sales and marketing investment.

We firmly believe that with the growth capital injection, MVSI will be able to accel erate its global expansion, and we want to be a valuable partner on that journey.

Microequities says MVSI has been growing rapidly, achieving a compound revenue growth rate of over 50% per annum and positive EBITDA, evidencing strong unit economics and capital management capabilities. What was particularly impressive about MVSI is the outstanding customer feedback we received during our due diligence process. It became obvious that MVSI had a best of breed technology that we think has a tremendous growth runway.

Daniel Sheahan, CEO and Co-Founder of MVSI said While our growth both in Australia and internationally has been fantastic, we decided to seek investment to further accelerate that growth.

This is the first external capital that MVSI has taken onboard and Microequities is exactly the type of collaborative partner that as founders, we were looking for. We view our relationship with Microequities Asset Management as strategic to executing our global business plan and fully capitalizing on our future growth potential. Were looking forward to working with Carlos and the MAM team to continue to build our international presence and establish a position as the global leader in this space."

Microequities Portfolio Manager of Private Assets, Andrew Ross said We are delighted to invest in MVSI, a fast-growing RegTech company. The AML software market is growing, supported by strong growth in digital payments and increasing compliance requirements. Our approach to this investment, as with all our investments in the portfolio, will be to be a collaborative, constructive long-term partner to enable MVSI to harness its full potential
This week saw the release of another ode to the genius of Elon Musk, gushingly accepting his pronouncements at face value. Also, Walter Isaacson published a book about him.

Isaacson's 600-odd page "Elon Musk," which debuted Tuesday, was beaten to the punch by Adam Jonas, a sell-side analyst at Morgan Stanley. He released a 60-odd page report the previous day boosting his target price for Tesla, Musk's electric vehicle manufacturer, on the thesis that Tesla is actually an artificial intelligence powerhouse in the making.

As Isaacson's book chronicles, Dojo, the name for Tesla's supercomputer moonshot, springs from Musk's long-running fascination with, and unease about, artificial intelligence. Musk's early backing of OpenAI, which eventually created the ChatGPT chatbot, evolved into a range of AI-related bets.

In Tesla's case, that is focused on Musk's long-promised goal of creating intelligent vehicles offering fully autonomous rides that are safer than regular driving by meat with eyes. Dojo's next-generation custom chips are intended to be the brains of Tesla's self-driving vehicles and, by Jonas' reckoning, will perform better at that than the chips on offer from AI hardware darling, Nvidia.

On the back of this, Jonas raised his target valuation by almost $480 billion. The same day, Tesla's market cap jumped by $79 billion, an amount bigger than the individual market caps of roughly 80% of the S&P 500's members.

One could say, I suppose, that the ever rational market is ascribing an implied one-sixth probability to the Dojo thesis, but that would perhaps be overthinking things.

While Isaacson's book and the "Enter the Dojo" report spring from very different places, both fit a long-running theme around Musk and Tesla: Extraordinary benefit of the doubt.

Isaacson's take on some of the more out-there and dubious bits of Tesla's history goes remarkably easy on his subject. For example, with regards to the "funding secured" fiasco in 2018, when Musk tweeted that he had a deal to take Tesla private in the bag, the book shows how, in fact, nothing about the deal had been secured in the way most humans would take that word to mean.

Yet the brief section ends with a quote from Musk's own lawyer saying, "Elon Musk is just an impulsive kid with a terrible Twitter habit," a sentiment Isaacson then endorses, rather eliding the complications arising when the impulsive kid happens to run a big public company. The weird episode just prior to the book's launch whereby Isaacson undercut his own reporting, at Musk's bidding, to change the story about Musk's role in an abortive Ukrainian attack on Russian warships adds to the sense of hagiography (or, worse, inaccuracy).

This is not to deny Musk's real achievements, particularly around Tesla's EV revolution and the rise of Space Exploration Technologies, which of course fill much of the book. The point is that, at this point, these are known - baked into the price, as it were. Which brings us back to the Morgan Stanley report.

When that one was published, Tesla's price of $249 equated to a market cap of $789 billion. Even in Jonas' bull case, which values Tesla at $1.75 trillion, the core autos business - which generates more than 90% of current gross profit - accounts for only $480 billion. On that basis, even the existing market cap had an extra $300 billion of value that related to  something.

The exact identity of that something is debatable, but it can be broadly defined as belief in Musk's next big thing. Even as Tesla has achieved milestones that, at times, looked daunting, the valuation tends to run ahead to what might be coming next. Jonas' report - similar to another one some years back that made a splash, opining about a (still) theoretical Tesla ride-hailing service - offers a narrative scaffold around this amorphous option value.

Yet only in the broadest and most caveated strokes. The gap between Jonas' bear and bull case is a cool $1.37 trillion, a gap bigger than Tesla's all-time peak market cap. A colleague of his who actually covers semiconductor stocks is quoted in the report as noting Tesla's real strengths in developing hardware and software but also pointing out the real difficulties in challenging Nvidia on its home turf.

As an aside, Tesla already trades at roughly a 40% premium to Nvidia on forward earnings multiples, another facet of how much belief is baked in already. Most telling of all, Jonas adds a rider to his Dojo enthusiasm: "While it is difficult to explicitly validate the many claims Tesla has made about Dojo's cost and performance, we believe Tesla has a chance of bringing forth a competitive customized solution given the company's innovation track record and capabilities."

An extra $480 billion on belief in a chance? Sure. As it was, Tesla's stock had doubled this year already despite actual, explicitly validated numbers showing a big decline in profit margins as the company chases growth with price cuts. In the quarter just gone, Tesla sold almost twice the cars as a year previously but generated lower absolute operating profit, which is astounding.

New price cuts since then suggest margins remain under pressure this quarter. Meanwhile, with 17 days to go until the end of September, we are yet to see pricing, finalized specs or an exact launch date for what is supposed to be the next catalyst for the stock, the Cybertruck. The dissonance of immediate events with the stock's performance means leaning harder into the vision thing. Dojo helps reemphasize the mojo.

(COMMENT, BELOW)

Liam Denning is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering energy and commodities. A former investment banker, he was editor of the Wall Street Journal's Heard on the Street column and a reporter for the Financial Times's Lex column.

Previously:
SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. Just click here.

Last week, the Governor of New Mexico confronted what she claimed was a health crisis, and her solution was to deny law-abiding folks the right to bear arms. The health crisis she identified was an uptick in the murder rate in the city of Albuquerque. And her solution was to turn off the personal liberty of all persons there. She purported to do this by issuing an executive decree that prescribed the penalties for doing what was perfectly lawful the day before the decree  openly carrying a registered handgun.

She did this notwithstanding the expressly guaranteed right in the U.S. Constitution to keep and bear arms, notwithstanding the Supreme Court's most recent interpretations of the constitutional guarantee, notwithstanding the natural right to self-defense and notwithstanding comparable guarantees in the New Mexico Constitution and laws.

Stated differently, the Governor took the law into her own hands and defied and perverted it. Can this possibly be legal? In a word: No.

Here is the backstory.

In 1939, the Supreme Court heard an appeal in U.S. v. Miller, a case in which the defendant had been convicted of carrying a rifle across state lines that was too short, according to federal statutes. The statutes were based on the power of Congress to regulate commerce between the states. Even though Miller was not engaged in commercial activity, and even though no lawyer appeared or presented an argument for him in the Supreme Court, the court upheld his conviction.

From and after that case, the feds and the states began aggressively regulating the possession, sale and movement of weapons. The big-government types in both political parties regularly either enacted laws or gave the power to bureaucrats to promulgate and enforce regulations that severely impaired the right to keep and bear arms. Their view was that their governments would keep them safe, so why does anyone need arms?

This attitude prevailed until 2008, when a retired District of Columbia police officer applied for a permit to own and possess a handgun in his own home, and his application was denied.

The Supreme Court reversed that denial, and an opinion called District of Columbia v. Heller, authored by the late Justice Antonin Scalia, held that the right to keep and bear arms is personal and pre-political; meaning, it is possessed by individual persons and it does not derive from the government. It is the modern mechanical extension of the natural right to self-defense.

Justice Scalia reasoned that the Second Amendment does not grant the right to keep and bear arms; rather, it restrains the government from interfering with it.

As if to defy the Supreme Court, liberal states, begrudgingly recognizing the right to own a gun, made it nearly impossible to carry or use a gun, since Heller only addressed ownership and use in one's home.

Then, last year, the Supreme Court addressed the issue of carrying guns in public places. In an opinion written by Justice Clarence Thomas, the court overruled Miller and reaffirmed Heller, and ruled for the first time that the Second Amendment means today what it meant to those who wrote and ratified it in 1791.

Thus, the original public understanding of the right to keep and bear arms  which is the right to use guns to protect life, liberty and property from bad guys and tyrants  is the governing principle of all gun laws today.

Add to this the basic constitutional principle of the separation of powers, and one can easily see just how wrong and dangerous the behavior of the Governor of New Mexico is. Under the separation of powers, only the legislature can write laws, and only the executive can enforce them, and only the judiciary can say what they mean.

Since governors are in the executive branch, they are not constitutionally competent to write laws; they can only enforce those that the legislature has already written. Thus, when the Supreme Court has defined the right to keep and bear arms as a personal, individual, natural right, no gubernatorial decree can interfere with it.

What about emergencies? The Supreme Court has also ruled consistently that there are no emergency exceptions to the fundamental rights guaranteed from infringement in the Bill of Rights.

Moreover, the Governor of New Mexico has violated federal law by issuing her decree. Federal civil rights laws expressly prohibit all government officials from using government power to infringe upon individual fundamental liberties.

But there is more here about which to be weary.

Many of us who monitor the government's lack of fidelity to constitutional norms firmly believe that its so-called lockdowns and other mandates, issued under the guise of health regulations three years ago, were profoundly unconstitutional. All violated the separation of powers, as these unlawful commands were issued by governors and bureaucrats, not enacted by legislatures. And all infringed upon natural human rights, like worship, speech, assembly and travel, none of which can be impaired without proving fault or guilt at a jury trial.

Surely, the Governor of New Mexico knows this. She has taken an oath to preserve, protect and defend the U.S. Constitution and the Constitution of New Mexico.

Her oaths are to the values underlying government, not just to the pieces of paper on which those values are articulated. The values that she violated  perhaps as a dry run for future gubernatorial aberrations  recognize that our rights are natural to our humanity. As such they cannot be interfered with by a decree or even by a popular majority.

Paraphrasing John Stuart Mill, because modern-day self-defense is a natural right, if all America but one were of the view that self-defense by guns is unlawful, the government would no more be justified in seizing the guns of the one than would he, if he had the power, be justified in seizing the guns of the government.

(COMMENT, PLEASE, BELOW)

Andrew P. Napolitano, a former judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey, was the senior judicial analyst at Fox News Channel. Judge Napolitano has written seven books on the U.S. Constitution.
Sign up for the daily JWR update. It's free. Just click here.

This week, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., announced the opening of an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. "These are allegations of abuse of power, obstruction and corruption, and they warrant further investigation by the House of Representatives," McCarthy explained. The impeachment inquiry will give the House Republicans a better legal defense against claims that any subpoenas they issue exceed the scope of congressional authority. More importantly, it signals to the American public the seriousness of Republican intent to make Biden's corruption the top issue in the 2024 election.

For those complaining about Republican politicking, turnabout is surely fair play. Former President Donald Trump was impeached not once but twice; neither time did Democrats so much as allege a statutory crime. They relied on the fact that impeachment is a political response, not a criminal one  true as far as it goes, but precedent-setting in the context of prior impeachments. They pursued impeachment inquiries without so much as a vote in the House. The genie is out of the bottle, and it isn't going back in anytime soon.

The allegations against Biden are already damning. So is the evidence. Biden used his son, Hunter, as a cutout to clear cash from foreign sources on behalf of the Biden family. That's all part of a decadeslong pattern by which Biden has used his political power and influence to benefit his family. Back in the 1970s, Jimmy Biden, Joe's brother, somehow obtained generous loans from a local bank to open a rock club, despite little in the way of collateral; Joe was sitting on the Senate Banking Committee at the time and ended up pressuring the bank when Jimmy fell behind on his loans. In 1996, Joe cashed out his home by selling it to the vice president of MBNA in a sweetheart deal; MBNA would also hire Hunter fresh out of law school. MBNA was one of Biden's biggest donors and a beneficiary of his credit card policy largesse. In the words of Politico reporter Ben Schreckinger, "The Bidens regularly intermingled personal, political, and financial relationships in ways that invited questions about whether the public interest was getting short-changed."

All of this came to a head when Joe attained the vice presidency. Hunter forged relationships, with his father's aide, in China and Ukraine; Joe would call into business meetings to "talk about the weather." Hunter joined the board of Burisma, where he made an extraordinary amount of money; in return, he promised connection with his father. In December 2015, Biden went to Ukraine, where he demanded that Viktor Shokin, a prosecutor looking into Burisma, be fired, threatening to withdraw $1 billion in American aid. During this time, a confidential human source later told the FBI that Burisma's CFO said that he had hired Hunter "to protect us, through his dad, from all kinds of problems."

That was merely the most egregious apparent abuse of power. There were dozens of others.

Was Joe benefitting from Hunter's business arrangements? We hear from the media that there is no evidence to suggest he was. But that's obviously a lie: scoring benefits for your drug-addicted, sexually deviant son is certainly a benefit that accrues to Joe. And we also have a text directly from Hunter to his daughter Naomi in 2019: "I hope you can all do what I did and pay for everything for this entire family for 30 years. It's really hard. But don't worry. Unlike Pop, I won't make you give me half your salary."

All of this is predicate to Biden's behavior as president. Thanks to whistleblowers, we know that the Biden DOJ attempted to cut a sweetheart deal with Hunter Biden to end any investigation into these matters. In this case, the cover-up may be just as bad as the crime.

In the end, the American voters will give their verdict on Biden; with Democrats in control of the Senate, he won't be removed from office. But Republicans are right to remind Americans that Biden isn't a decent man restoring honor to the Oval Office. He's a career-long corrupt politician who simply got lucky in his enemies at the right time.

(COMMENT, BELOW)

Ben Shapiro, bestselling author and syndicated columnist, first went into syndication after appearing in JWR.


Sign up for the daily JWR update. It's free. Just click here.

WASHINGTONThere is still more gibberish emitting from the pope as he travels to and from the Far East. Now he is safely home in the Vatican, so only his close advisers will hear the claptrap that comes from him as he tries to placate the Red Chinese and the Russians and, who knows, maybe he is even aiming his rhetoric toward North Korea and the Palestinians. He has kind words for anyone who is anti-American or anti-Western.

Recently, in Mongolia, he addressed a small group of Chinese Catholics. They had braved Chinese Communist censors to visit with the pope and see what was on his mind. Though according to The New York Times, they covered their faces "for fear of reprisal," presumably from Communist intelligence officers who were keeping an eye on them while they visited Mongolia. Mongolia is a safe place for Chinese Catholics to visit. It contains only about 1,400 Catholics in a country roughly the size of Alaska, and how many of them could be Communist informers?

The pope had nothing but polite gibberish to utter about China. Said the heir to the Chair of Saint Peter, "The relations with China are very respectful  I personally have great admiration for the Chinese culture. They are very open, let's put it this way." And he went on to say from his papal airplane, according to the Times, that "he hoped there would be more exposure to Roman Catholics in China so that the Chinese citizens did not think that the church had intentions to shape their culture and values or that it was 'dependent on another power.'" What other power the pope had in mind I do not know. As I say, his message was gibberish.

The pope does have his bugaboos, however, though apparently China is not one of them, and even Russia is given a dispensation from the wrath of this pope. On the other hand, the "authoritarian" West rouses his hackles. The Times reports that the pope excoriates "what he considers the authoritarian streak of Western nationalists, the reactionary ideology of American conservatives in the church and the unchristian hardheartedness of leaders in Washington and Europe who don't open their borders to migrants or act to protect the environment." As for China, the pope is much more forgiving. China is the top carbon dioxide emitter in the world, responsible for more than 30% of the world's greenhouse gases. While the United States contributes less than 15% of greenhouse gases, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

The pope's relations with the West have always been a mystery to me. Where does he think the funds to cover the day-to-day expenses of his vast array of churches and eleemosynary organizations comes from? The Chinese? The homeless? Oprah Winfrey? For that matter, how does the average donor manage to come up with donations for the church that keep it going? Most of it comes from free-market transactions, not from socialism.

Now let us change our focus a bit from politics to theology. Why is the pope kowtowing to the godless Chinese Communists? Did St. Paul bow to the Romans? For that matter, how many of the saints sniveled to the Romans as Pope Francis sniveled to the Red Chinese in his recent trips abroad? I can well imagine this hubristic pope dismissing sainthood as an old-fashioned contrivance from times gone by. So what is he going to replace sainthood with? Are his faithful followers going to follow him in joining yoga classes? How about modern dance?

Some people may say that I have written an unserious column, but the more I think of the pope, the more I am driven to the conclusion this is an unserious pope. He addresses the Chinese Communists as though they were not people contemplating war with Taiwan but planning war games. For that matter, he has not taken the war in Ukraine seriously. He has never held Vladimir Putin and his government accountable for the war in Ukraine, a war that has led to the deaths of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians and Russians alike. Instead he parades around the world as though he were a welcome guest. Well, tell that to the people of Ukraine and for that matter the people of Russia. My guess is that both sides in this horrible war would tell him they have had enough.

Glory to Ukraine!

(COMMENT, BELOW)
Oven-Baked Country Bacon & Collard Egg Rolls

Makes 12 rolls

3 small bundles (about 3 ounces) of dried mung bean (glass) or cellophane noodles

3 slices applewood smoked bacon, diced

 cup thinly sliced green onions

 cup finely diced red bell pepper

1 garlic clove, minced

1 cups grated carrot (about 1 large carrot)

 cup thinly sliced cabbage

1 cups finely chopped or thinly sliced collard greens

1 teaspoon sea salt

12 (7-inch square) egg roll wrappers

1 large egg, beaten (or 1 tablespoon flour plus 2 teaspoons water combined for a slurry paste)

1 to 2 tablespoons canola oil

Sesame Sammie Spread & Veggie Dip:

4 tablespoons natural Georgia Grinders Creamy Peanut Butter or peanut butter of choice

2 teaspoons roasted sesame oil

2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil

2 teaspoons mirin

2 teaspoons honey

2 teaspoons naturally brewed light soy sauce

 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

1. Make the sesame dip: In a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, sesame oil, olive oil, mirin, honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and apple cider vinegar, then stir vigorously with a fork until smooth and blended. To make the spread thinner, add more olive or vegetable oil. To thicken, add more peanut butter. Do not add water because the peanut butter mixture will not emulsify properly.

2. Soak the noodles in a bowl of hot water for about 15 minutes, then drain. (Save the liquid to enjoy as soup broth.) With a large knife, slice through the stack of noodles 3 to 5 times (to prevent tangling) and set aside.

3. In a large nonstick skillet, cook the bacon 3 to 4 minutes, just until some of the fat has rendered but it is still soft. Add the green onions, bell pepper, and garlic and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the carrot, cabbage, and collards and saute for about 2 minutes, until soft. Then add the noodles, making sure excess liquid has been drained. (Save the liquid to enjoy as soup broth).

4. Add the salt and saute for about 3 minutes. Immediately transfer the mixture to a large shallow dish to cool completely. (Dont skip this stepa warm filling will cause steam, resulting in soggy spring rolls.)

5. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone liner.

6. To assemble the egg rolls, remove 1 egg roll wrapper from the stack at a time, keeping the remaining stack covered with a clean, damp towel to prevent drying.

7. Lay the wrapper on a diagonal (diamond) with a corner closest to you. Near that closest corner, spoon  up of the cooled filling mixture. Roll the corner up and over the filling snugly, then fold in the left and right sides toward the center to close the ends of the roll.

8. Continue rolling the wrapper away from you. Using a finger, dab the egg or flour slurry as a glue to securely seal (like an envelope flap) all the edges. Set the completed roll aside, seam-side down, and repeat the process until all of the egg rolls are assembled. Evenly place the spring rolls, seam-side down, on the prepared baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, gently brush each roll on all sides with a light coat of oil. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes, stopping to turn the rolls every 5 minutes for an even golden color. Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy with dipping sauce.

Recipe from Egg Rolls & Sweet Tea (Gibbs Smith)
Zirrus employees have voted 41-17 against being represented by Communications Workers of America, the Yadkinville telecommunications company said Wednesday.

Zirrus said a secret ballot was requested by the union to the National Labor Relations Board in an attempt to represent up to 60 Zirrus construction workers and technicians. The vote was held Wednesday.

Yadkinville-based Zirrus, formerly known as Yadtel, has retail stores in Bermuda Run, Mocksville and Yadkinville.

We are glad our employees carefully considered sound facts and information needed to help them make this important choice, and to have their voices heard, said Janet Culpepper, Zirrus vice president of human resources and public relations.

We now welcome the opportunity to continue working directly with each other without the intervention of a third party as we strive to make each day better for everyone at Zirrus.

We also call upon the union to respect the clear and overwhelming decision by our employees to reject union representation in a secret ballot election.

CWA accuses Zirrus of engaging in anti-union activities, which violate workers rights under the National Labor Relations Act. An unfair labor practice charge is under investigation by Region 10 of the National Labor Relations Board.

The CWA said in a statement Thursday the affected Zirrus employees were denied their right to a free and fair election.

Workers were subjected to unlawful and coercive conduct by their employer when Zirrus management illegally fired a pro-union worker, illegally spied on pro-union employees, threatened employees with a loss of benefits if they voted for the union, and threatened to eliminate jobs if the workers voted for the union.

CWA accused Zirrus management of telling employees that there would be consequences to pay if they supported the union.

In the days leading up to the union election, workers were called in, one at a time, and forced to speak directly to the CEO about their desire for a union.

Broadband component

Zirrus accused the union of attempts to interfere in Zirrus business by targeting customers at retail store locations and attempting to use political influence to undercut grant funds awarded to Zirrus for the build out of internet infrastructure in underserved rural North Carolina communities.

On Sept. 8, the union sent a letter to Gov. Roy Cooper, petitioning him to review what it called anti-labor activities by Zirrus. The governors office confirmed we have received this letter and are reviewing it.

The union, in particular, wants the governor to ensure that Zirrus has not put the states broadband grant at greater risk of scrutiny by the federal government.

Zirrus said that after a very stringent grant process in 2022, Zirrus was awarded critical funding to bring service into areas in need for enhanced infrastructure technology.

We are thankful that our community and especially our workers saw through the many false allegations thrown at us in the last few weeks, said Ken Mills, Zirrus chief executive.

CWA said the alleged actions may make North Carolinas broadband grants vulnerable to scrutiny by the federal government.

In August 2022, the N.C. Department of Information Technologys Broadband Infrastructure Office awarded federal Growing Rural Economies with Access to Technology (GREAT) grants to Davie, Stokes and Yadkin counties through Zirrus.

The high-speed fiber internet program provides matching grants to internet service providers and electric membership cooperatives that partner with individual N.C. counties to compete for funding to expand high-speed internet service to unserved areas of the state.

Stokes received the largest funding amount of the three Triad counties at $4 million to Zirrus, along with a $2.53 million match required of Zirrus.

Yadkin was at $2.59 million to Zirrus and a $1.11 million match, while Davie was at $595,983 to Zirrus and a $255,421 match.

For the Davidson grant, it was worth $1.96 million to Zirrus, with Zirrus required to provide a $346,470 match.

Under federal regulations, the state has reporting obligations to certify that large projects are either subject to a project labor agreement, or provide a workforce continuity plan detailing how the recipient will minimize the risks of labor disputes and disruptions that would jeopardize timelines and cost-effectiveness of the project.
A judge allowed prosecutors this week to seek the death penalty against a Winston-Salem man if he is convicted on charges of setting two fires that killed two people in 2022.

Judge Stanley L. Allen of Forsyth Superior Court also ordered Russell Edwards Marshall to be examined at Central Regional Hospital in Butner to determine if Marshall is competent to stand trial on two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of first-degree arson, court records show.

Central Regional Hospital is a state-operated psychiatric hospital in Granville County.

Marshall, 69, is accused of killing Jessie Lee Scott, 58, and Barbara Tilley Harmon, 81, by setting fires at houses on Sept. 25, 2022 at 1663 East 22nd St. and on June 22, 2022 at 4556 Renigar St., according to court records.

Scott died in the fire at the boarding house on East 22nd Street, and Harmon died in a fire at a boarding house on Renigar Street. Both houses accommodate people with disabilities.

Medical personnel at the hospital will determine if Marshall has the capacity to proceed with his case in future court hearings and a possible trial.

Marshalls capacity to proceed is in question, a court record said.

Daniel Anthony of Winston-Salem, Marshalls attorney, couldnt be reached Wednesday for comment.

In May, Anthony told Judge Richard Gottlieb that Marshall could not understand the charges against him.

At that time, Belinda Foster, an assistant district attorney, told Gottlieb that she disagreed with Anthony about Marshalls fitness to stand trial.

At this point, (Marshall) is competent to stand trial, Foster told Gottlieb.

The death penalty should be pursued only in the most egregious cases, District Attorney Jim ONeill of Forsyth County said Wednesday.

I have always believed that there are certain crimes that must be presented to jurors in our community for an appropriate punishment recommendation, ONeill said. These decisions are not made lightly.

James H. Hilkey of Durham, a psychologist, evaluated Marshall on Aug. 23 and Sept. 8 in the Forsyth County Jail, according to a court document.

At the jail, Marshall had trouble walking and a little difficulty hearing, Hilkey said in the document.

Marshall told Hilkey that he was involuntarily committed to a psychiatric hospital when he was 30, saying that there was a lot of noise in the background, according to the court document.

Marshall told Hilkey that he was treated with Navane, an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia, the document said.

Mr. Marshall appeared confused when asked about these current charges, adding I didnt kill anyone, according to the document. Marshall also appeared confused about members of his defense, believing his lawyers were working for the state of North Carolina.

Multiple concerns regarding Marshalls mental-health history and current mental state require further evaluation, Hilkey said in the court document.

Based on my limited contact, it would appear he (Marshall) lacks the capacity to assist counsel, Hilkey said in the document. Mr. Marshall will require an extensive psychiatric and psychological assessment to include a review of past medical history.
WASHINGTON  About half of Americans say they have little or no confidence that the Justice Department is handling its investigation into Hunter Biden in a fair and nonpartisan way, and 1 in 3 are highly concerned about whether President Joe Biden may have committed wrongdoing related to his sons business dealings, according to a new poll. But the political divide is stark.

Sixty-six percent of Republicans  and just 7% of Democrats  are very or extremely concerned about whether Joe Biden committed wrongdoing when it comes to his son's business dealings, according to the poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

Overall, Democrats are far more wary of faulting the president at all with regard to his son's business dealings.

"The way I look at it, if Biden did something wrong, then he should be held accountable," said Pilar DeAvila-Pinsley 60, a New York Democrat. But there is no proof of this.

The poll was conducted just before House Speaker Kevin McCarthy launched a formal impeachment inquiry aiming to link the president to the business dealings of his son and deflect attention from Donald Trumps legal peril as the two men battle anew for the White House. A special counsel appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland is investigating Hunter Biden's business dealings, and on Thursday, the president's son was indicted on federal firearms charges.

Over the yearslong probe, federal prosecutors have not indicated Joe Biden is connected. And so far, Republicans have unearthed no significant evidence of wrongdoing by the elder Biden, who spoke often to his son as vice president and did stop by a business dinner with his sons associates. The White House, for its part, maintains Joe Biden was not involved in his sons business affairs.

Those assurances haven't stopped Americans from worrying, and shifts in White House explanations  from earlier insisting Biden had never spoken to his son about his overseas business dealings to now saying Biden was not in business with his son  have caused concern.

Derik Wieland, 47, a Republican who lives outside Raleigh, North Carolina, said Biden has already admitted to some of the issues. I dont know any dad who doesnt know what his son is doing. I would be concerned about a dad who didnt know what his son was doing.

For Wieland, the allegations laid out by House Republicans are a sign of a larger problem in Washington, one he believes ensnares Biden, too.

"A guy who has been in higher levels of power for ages, and kind of plays fast and loose with what he does," he said. He's been there too long. Too many of them have.

The White House messaging shift was also concerning to 40-year-old Nicholas Zumbusch, an independent who lives in a Minneapolis suburb. He isn't fully convinced that Biden profited off his son's business dealings but thinks its very clear that Joe Biden lied about knowing about his son's business.

The narrative changed, and then that narrative changed again, Zumbusch said.

The poll also found that just 19% of Americans are very or extremely confident that the Justice Department is handling its investigation in a fair and nonpartisan way. An additional 30% are somewhat confident, and 50% say they are not too confident or not at all confident.

That view is especially common among Republicans: 79% say they have little to no confidence in the fairness of the investigation. Even Democrats express mediocre levels of confidence: 33% are highly confident, 36% are somewhat confident and 29% have little confidence.

The political polarization is reflective of the larger divide in the U.S., and bright political lines have also been drawn around the validity of the 2024 election, and Trumps first impeachment.

An August AP-NORC poll, for example, found that 85% of Democrats but just 16% of Republicans approved of the Justice Departments indictment of Trump in the federal case involving allegations that he worked illegally to overturn results of the 2020 presidential election. There was a similar partisan divide in beliefs that Trump did something illegal in the Florida classified documents case, his role in what happened at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 and his alleged attempt to interfere in Georgias 2020 presidential vote count.

Zumbusch said he has confidence in the rank-and-file Justice Department; it's the agency's leadership that troubles him.

My big concern is the people who have connections with any administration that's in power, he said. I feel like they tend to be influenced, whether it's Republicans in power, or Democrats in power. I think they feel their boss is the administration.

The poll shows a majority of Americans, 56%, say theyve heard at least some about the investigations into Hunter Biden, although only 18% say theyve heard a lot. Republicans are more likely than Democrats to say theyve heard at least some about the investigations (68% to 51%) and that theyve heard a lot (27% to 13%).

Among Republicans, those who say theyve heard at least some about the investigations are more likely than those who have heard less to say they are highly concerned about whether Joe Biden committed wrongdoing (76% to 45%) and that they have little to no confidence that the Justice Departments investigation is fair (88% to 60%).

Among Democrats, those who are paying at least some attention to the investigations are no more or less likely than others to be concerned about Joe Bidens role, and are actually somewhat more likely than those paying less attention to say theyre highly confident in the Justice Departments investigation being fair, 42% to 24%.
WASHINGTON  Hunter Biden was indicted Thursday on federal firearms charges, the latest and weightiest step yet in a long-running investigation into the president's son.

Biden is accused of lying about his drug use when he bought a firearm in October 2018, a period when he has acknowledged struggling with addiction to crack cocaine, according to the indictment filed in federal court in Delaware.

President Joe Biden's son has also been under investigation for his business dealings. The special counsel overseeing the case has indicated that charges of failure to pay taxes on time could be filed in Washington or in California, where he lives.

The indictment comes as congressional Republicans pursue an impeachment inquiry into the Democratic president, in large part over Hunter Biden's business dealings. Republicans have obtained testimony about how Hunter Biden used the "Biden brand" to drum up work overseas, but they have not produced hard evidence of wrongdoing by the president.

The three-count indictment says Hunter Biden lied on a form required for every gun purchase when he bought a Colt Cobra Special at a Wilmington, Delaware, gun shop in October 2018.

He's charged with two counts of making false statements by checking a box falsely saying he was not a user of or addicted to drugs and of illegally possessing the gun as a drug user and a third count for possessing the gun as a drug user.

Two counts are punishable by up to 10 years in prison while the third carries up to five years in prison, upon conviction.

A felony gun charge against Hunter Biden, 53, had previously been part of a plea deal that also included guilty pleas to misdemeanor tax charges, but the agreement imploded during a court hearing in July when a judge raised questions about its unusual provisions.

Defense attorneys have argued that a part of the deal sparing Hunter Biden prosecution on the gun count if he stays out of trouble remains in place. It includes immunity provisions against other potential charges. Attorneys indicated they would fight additional charges filed against him, but did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday.

Prosecutors, though, maintain the agreement never took effect and is now invalid. They telegraphed charges were coming earlier this month.

Charges related to gun possession by drug users are rare, especially when not in connection with other crimes. Of all the people sentenced for illegal gun possession in 2021, about 5% were charged due to drug use, according to U.S. Sentencing Commission data.

A federal appeals court, meanwhile, recently found longstanding ban didn't stand up to new standards for gun laws set by the Supreme Court.

Republicans had denounced the plea agreement as a "sweetheart deal." It would have allowed Hunter Biden to serve probation rather than jail time after pleading guilty to failing to pay taxes in both 2017 and 2018.

His personal income during those two years totaled roughly $4 million, including business and consulting fees from a company he formed with the CEO of a Chinese business conglomerate and the Ukrainian energy company Burisma, prosecutors have said.

Congressional Republicans have continued their own investigations into the Justice Department's handling of the case as well as nearly every aspect of Hunter Biden's business dealings, seeking to connect his financial affairs directly to his father. They have failed to produce evidence that the president directly participated in his son's work, though he sometimes had dinner with his son's clients or said hello to them on calls.

Photos: Hunter Biden through the years
Mayor Eric Adams is earning praise from Republicans, which is always a danger sign for Democrats.

Hes also receiving criticism from members of his own party, which is nothing out of the blue, either.

The reactions came after he told an audience of Upper West Side residents that the citys continuing influx of thousands of migrants will destroy New York City.

Im gonna tell you something, New Yorkers, never in my life have I had a problem that I didnt see an ending to. I dont see an ending to this, the retired New York City police captain said during a town hall event last week. This issue will destroy New York City.

Destroy New York City? Good riddance, say some wags, but Im not one of them.

Sounds like hes lived something of a charmed life until now, if this is the only endless problem hes seen. After all, hes mayor of New York, the nations biggest city, meaning it also has its biggest collection of problems, along with  in many eyes  its biggest collection of assets, although I keep my loyalties to Chicago pizza.

But as awful as the migrant issue has been for the Big Apple in the short term, I keep my faith in New Yorks powers of resilience in the long run. Yes, I had some doubts in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks. But the city came back and has thrived, unlike, say, Rudy Giulianis reputation.

When it comes to resiliency, I still keep faith in the city that survived the catastrophic Great Chicago Fire. It was one of the worst disasters in American history, yet it still manages to hold on to the adjective Great in its name.

While Adams was singing the blues in his sense of being forsaken by Washington, despite the apparent benefits of having a Democratic president in the White House, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson was offering a peek at his plans to set up base camps for migrants throughout the city and move almost 1,600 adults and children who have been sleeping in Chicago police stations into large tents to get through Chicagos infamous winter. Another 418 were sleeping inside OHare International Airport, according to city data, with, as Chuck Berry sang, no particular place else to go.

Having covered the nations immigration puzzle since the days when President Ronald Reagan enacted an immigrant amnesty that, interestingly, Republicans seldom talk about now, I was pleased to see New York U.S. Rep. Adriano Espaillat get a little TV airtime. Born in the Dominican Republic, he is the first formerly undocumented immigrant to serve in Congress. As a firsthand veteran of the process, he has had lots of time to work on immigration issues and do more than just complain about the dilemmas.

While others, like me, spend a lot of time analyzing the problem, he looks for solutions.

Asked by CNN host Abby Phillip what he thought of Adams predicament and doomsday sentiments, he said astutely that Adams, a friend of his, is doing what he has to do to get federal funding. But, more than that, Espaillat said, I look at it from another perspective, that every crisis brings about great opportunities.

Immigration itself offers opportunities to the migrant and to the receiving country, in this case the U.S. The news has been remarkably heavy with stories about the difficulties some employers are experiencing as they try to fill job vacancies.

The problem: Many migrants would like to work and support themselves and their families, but the process and approval of work permits is too grindingly slow.

Venezuelans, one of the largest nationalities in this latest immigration wave, used to have temporary protected status because of hardships from which they seek asylum. But they lost that status a while ago, and its restoration has fallen by the wayside. Lets get it back before New York dies, among others.

Those are just a few ways American cities survive  in the long run.
Keep going. You matter. Have hope.

These phrases were written over and over again in the varying scrawls of students at Lincoln Northwest High School on pink and blue hearts taped to a brick hallway wall.

Life is filled with ups and downs, keep going, one heart read.

Its OK, another said. Im proud of you.

"We support you, stay strong, youve got this," more students wrote.

I have hope for the Lincoln Northwest student body."

The notes, which were written by each of the 900-plus students at the high school in honor of National Suicide Prevention Month, varied in content, but the message was clear: No Northwest Falcon will have to walk alone.

This is a message one group of students is working to ensure is heard by every student  loud and clear.

Nearly 20 students at Northwest represent the first class of Hope Squad members dedicated to advocating for student mental health, promoting suicide prevention and, most of all, spreading hope.

Sack the stigma, they say, because Falcons fly together.

Hope Squads is a peer-led program that was created in Utah in 2004 and has since been implemented in more than 1,600 schools across the nation  including every middle and high school at Lincoln Public Schools starting last spring, although the club has already been in some LPS schools for years.

Squad members are chosen through a nomination process that allows students to choose who they think would be a good person for fellow students to reach out to for help.

We want to be a part of the people that show the rest of the Northwest students and our peers that nothing is wrong with them, said Feryal Akpo-Idrissou, a senior Hope Squad member at Northwest. If they want help, they can get help.

In honor of September being National Suicide Prevention Month, the group sold purple and teal T-shirts, two colors representative of suicide awareness, at the start of the month, and plans to pass out bracelets and informational cards about suicide prevention at school sporting events throughout September. On each is the new national suicide hotline number created in 2022, 988.

Several members of the squad created a video Wednesday morning to spread awareness about the cause that will be played to the whole high school Friday, something Quinn Waring, a senior member of the Hope Squad at Northwest who helped film the video, hopes has a big impact on other students.

I'm hoping that we can really show that talking about it is OK and that we can work together to get through mental health, Waring said. You can look at someone and think they're doing just fine, but on the inside they're not.

Suicide is the second-leading cause of death in Nebraskans ages 10-24, and the state ranks 28th in the nation for its suicide death rate of 14.86 suicides per 100,000 people, according to 2020 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The implementation of Hope Squads is just one step in the battle to prevent suicide, but Waring is confident its already helping students across the school.

Even if they haven't reached out to me, that doesn't mean they haven't reached out to other people that they need, he said. I just think it's a good way to remind them to reach out to someone because in those hard times, it is hard to reach out.

LPS provides suicide assessments for students who are talking about or considering suicide to help them receive the resources they need, said Andrea Phillips, a social work coordinator at LPS who helped launch Hope Squads in the district.

Last year, they had 1,500 assessments completed by students, a number that grows each year, Phillips said.

We see that as both a good and a bad thing, Phillips said. We don't want people to be struggling, but we want them to reach out to people and get connected.

Phillips said one of her biggest goals with the program is to connect struggling students with a trusted adult, whether that be a community member, teacher or someone in their family. From there, students can be connected with a therapist or counselor if theyre in need of additional mental health services.

But Phillips predicts students will reach out to other students before approaching an adult, which is where the Hope Squad comes in.

One of the biggest benefits is the awareness that is brought to suicide and mental health. I think the way that that's done through peers is really the best way for it to be done, Phillips said. We know that kids listen to their friends, we know that they seek advice from their friends.

Even when Suicide Awareness Month comes to a close and September rolls into October and the school year continues on, Hope Squads across LPS will continue their work to end the stigma around suicide and be there for their peers.

I foresee that they'll continue to spread that awareness, Phillips said. They will continue to be visible at those different events, just really spreading the message of hope, making sure that kids know that there is hope.

If you or a loved one need assistance, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988Lifeline.org.

Photos: Lincoln Northwest opens it doors to students
An Omaha surgeon has been charged with manslaughter after prosecutors said he was driving nearly 70 mph over the speed limit when he caused a fatal crash on Dodge Street earlier this month.

Mark A. Carlson, 61, faces one count of manslaughter in connection with the death of 22-year-old Anna Bosma of South Dakota. He remained in the hospital as of Wednesday, according to Deputy Douglas County Attorney Brenda Beadle, and will be taken into custody upon his release.

If convicted of manslaughter, Carlson faces up to 20 years in prison.

According to an arrest affidavit for Carlson, Omaha police officers responded to a crash at 62nd and Dodge Streets at about 10:30 p.m. on Sept. 1. Bosma, who was driving a Chevrolet Cruze, was declared dead at the scene.

Citing witness interviews and security footage, officers now allege that Carlson was either racing or engaged in a road rage incident with a black SUV driven by 26-year-old Cameron Robinson before the crash.

After passing University Drive East, Carlsons Mercedes E63 AMG left the roadway and struck a metal light pole on the north side of Dodge Street with the rear passenger side of his car. Carlson then crossed four lanes of traffic  three westbound lanes and one eastbound  before entering the farthest eastbound lane and colliding with the Chevy Cruze.

Police applied for and were granted a search warrant for the air-bag control module on Carlsons Mercedes. The data showed that only about two seconds elapsed from the time Carlson hit the light pole to the impact with Bosmas car.

At the time of impact with the light pole, according to the affidavit, Carlson was traveling 106 mph with 100% accelerator pedal input, meaning that he was still accelerating at full speed. Half a second before the impact with the Chevy Cruze, the accelerator pedal input remained at 100% and the vehicle was traveling 101 mph.

The speed limit in the area where the crash occurred is 35 mph.

Robinson, the SUV driver who was allegedly racing Carlson, does not face any charges as of Wednesday. Beadle said that Robinson stayed at the scene of the crash and provided a statement to police, but the investigation remains open.

According to his University of Nebraska Medical Center faculty page, Carlson is the director of the Center for Advanced Surgical Technology in addition to being a professor in the department of surgery. He is also a staff surgeon at Omahas VA Medical Center.

A spokesperson for the University of Nebraska Medical Center confirmed on Wednesday that a Mark A. Carlson is on the faculty in the department of surgery, but could not comment further on his employment status or confirm that it was the same person charged in relation to the crash.

A spokesman for the VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System confirmed Wednesday that Carlson is a staff surgeon at the Omaha facility.

We are saddened by the situation, the spokesman said in an email.

Bosma graduated from South Dakota State University in May, according to her obituary, and had just begun an occupational therapy doctorate program at the University of South Dakota. She had a deep love for animals and recently started a Facebook group to organize gatherings for people in Sioux Falls who owned Bernese Mountain Dogs.

She was greatly loved, and she loved greatly in return, her obituary reads.

Omaha World-Herald staff writer Julie Anderson contributed to this report.
More than a year after the Legislature passed a bill meant to help incarcerated Nebraskans access health care coverage upon their release from state prisons, two state agencies have partnered to implement the program.

The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services is assisting those nearing release from state custody with Nebraska Medicaid enrollment  a practice required by LB921, which took effect July 1, more than a year after the Legislature passed the bill on a 46-0 vote in April 2022. Three senators were excused.

The law requires the state to provide in-person, over-the-phone or video conference assistance to inmates applying for Medicaid benefits at least 60 days prior to their release.

The bill, sponsored by former Sen. Steve Lathrop of Omaha, requires the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services to process each inmate's medical assistance program application at a pace that ensures the inmate's coverage is effective no later than the day of their release.

Access to medical and mental healthcare services is key to establishing a stable and healthy life after incarceration, Correctional Services Director Rob Jeffreys said in a Thursday news release announcing his department's partnership with HHS, which he said is "essential to a system where we as Nebraska prioritize our citizens and their needs.

Inmates can elect not to apply  though they have to do so in writing  and the state departments aren't required to provide assistance when inmates are already enrolled in the medical assistance program, namely Medicaid, with suspended coverage.

If an inmate opts out of applying as they near their release, it doesn't preclude them from seeking Medicaid coverage in the future.

The law doesn't guarantee inmates coverage. Inmates seeking coverage upon their departure from the state's prison system have to qualify for Medicaid, which is based on a variety of factors, including income, age and disabilities.

The Corrections Department has incorporated Medicaid registration into reentry planning  the path the staff maps out with inmates as they near their release from incarceration.

Probation navigators assist individuals who will be under post-release supervision in a similar manner, the department said in the news release.

The inmates' registration mostly happens over the phone. Corrections staff provides inmates with instructions for completing registration 45 days prior to their release. And it typically takes one call for inmates to register, the corrections department said.

Social workers also provide assistance to people with significant medical or mental health needs who may need additional support registering and navigating the health care system at large.

Officials hope initiating the registration process before an inmate is released from state custody is pivotal in ensuring a healthy reentry to society.

Photos: 2015 Tecumseh State Prison riot
Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana launched its bid to put the question of legalizing cannabis for medical use before voters in the 2024 election on Wednesday.

Speaking to volunteers and supporters at Duffys Tavern in downtown Lincoln, campaign manager Crista Eggers said the ballot committee was ready to try again after falling just short in the previous two election cycles.

If anything, the heartbreaking defeats have strengthened Nebraskans for Medical Marijuanas resolve, Eggers said.

What our campaign has that others dont is the heart, the soul, the grit, she said. Were going to get this done  its time.

The third try to legalize medical marijuana in Nebraska started in May, when Lincoln Sen. Anna Wishart and former state Sen. Adam Morfeld  co-sponsors of the previous two efforts  refiled language with the Nebraska Secretary of State for a new pair of petitions.

Wishart, who has sponsored bills in the Legislature to create a medical marijuana system in the Cornhusker State, said her latest attempt failed to muster enough support in the Judiciary Committee to advance the measure to the floor for debate.

The new petitions  an effort to do what the Legislature would not, organizers have said  have identical language to a pair of petitions that were circulated around the state during the 2022 campaign.

The first petition would enact a new state statute protecting doctors who recommend cannabis and patients who use it for medical purposes from legal consequences.

The second requires lawmakers to pass a bill legalizing the production, supply and distribution of cannabis for medical purposes.

Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana will need to submit a number of valid signatures equal to 7% of all registered voters in the state, including at least 5% of voters in 38 of Nebraskas 93 counties, in order to qualify for the November 2024 general election ballot.

That means each petition will need to collect about 87,000 valid signatures before July 3, 2024  the deadline for submitting them to Secretary of State Bob Evnen.

Eggers said while Wednesday marked the official kickoff of the effort, volunteers have quietly been gathering signatures in counties across the state in what she called a low and slow strategy that reengages the core group that has coalesced around the campaign over the past five years.

Every weekend, were out collecting, she said. Weve been out at county fairs and other events. I feel like weve made great progress on a $0 budget. These individuals are just doing this on a volunteer basis.

Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana said it plans to use those volunteers and others over the next 10 months in order to achieve its goal.

Any money donated to the ballot committee  Wednesdays event also doubled as a fundraiser, and organizers say they are continuing to try and raise money to boost the campaign  is put right back into the effort through printing petitions and signs, Eggers said.

But, she added, the campaign is hoping to avoid the frantic rush to the finish line it experienced last time when funding fell through.

Wishart said she is often asked why she keeps pushing to legalize medical marijuana, either through legislation in the halls of the Capitol or in parking lots across the state while collecting signatures.

If you look throughout history at the big changes that happen, they are always partnered with really intense journeys, she said. Weve all made a commitment to each other because we are all affected.

Coming up just short of reaching the ballot in the previous two attempts has taught Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana organizers and volunteers what it will take to get it done, Wishart added.

Morfeld said support for medical marijuana crosses party lines and transcends politics. During his 2022 campaign to become Lancaster County Attorney, Morfeld said he often spoke with people who told him they did not support his campaign but backed the medical marijuana ballot initiatives.

Its a real honor to be a part of an issue like that but also to be a part of an issue that is going to help people and help save lives in many instances, Morfeld said.

If Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana is successful, Nebraska will become the 48th state to legalize cannabis for medical use.

Legalizing medical marijuana is opposed by Gov. Jim Pillen as well as Smart Approaches to Marijuana, which has said that the effort would lead to more public health problems, mental illnesses and other issues.

Eggers, who got involved with the medical marijuana issue to help her son Colton, who has epilepsy, said the campaign was going to attempt to seize on the support its built over the past several years.

Were not going to make the mistake of underestimating what we can do and what Nebraskans can do, she said.

Photos: Medical marijuana petition drive kicks off at Lincoln's Duffy's Tavern
Gov. Jim Pillen on Thursday appointed state Sen. Tom Briese to the state treasurer's office.

Briese, a second-term lawmaker from Albion, will replace Treasurer John Murante on Nov. 1, according to a news release from the governor's office.

Murante was appointed to lead the Nebraska Public Employees Retirement System, which manages pensions for state employees.

"Sen. Briese has the respect of his peers and has been a great representative for District 41 in the Legislature," Pillen said in a statement. "He's a proven leader on tax policy reform, which will serve him well in his new role as treasurer."

Briese was first elected to the Legislature in 2016 and reelected in 2020. He currently serves as the chairman of the Executive Board and is on the Revenue Committee. Briese previously led the General Affairs Committee.

A fourth-generation family farmer, Briese has degrees in agricultural economics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a law degree from Nebraska Law.

Briese said he was honored to be appointed to become treasurer.

"I have truly enjoyed my time in the Legislature and am proud of the accomplishments achieved during my tenure, as well as the relationships that were forged," Briese said. "I look forward to this new opportunity and continuing to serve the people of our great state."

Murante, who was elected to a second term as state treasurer in 2022, will leave office on Sept. 18. Assistant State Treasurer Rachel Biar will manage the day-to-day operations of the office until Briese assumes responsibilities in November.

Pillen will also get to select Briese's replacement to finish his tenure in the Legislature.

The governor's office said information regarding the selection process will be provided at a later date.

Briese's selection comes after several high-profile candidates put their names forward for the job, including state Sen. Julie Slama, the chair of the Legislature's Banking, Commerce and Insurance Committees; Fremont Mayor Joey Spellerberg; former treasurer candidate Taylor Royal of Omaha; and Biar.

Top Journal Star photos for September 2023
RACINE  Racine County residents need not travel to Madison to witness the commotion surrounding Republican threats to impeach Wisconsins newest Supreme Court justice.

Two leading figures in the political hubbub are based in the Racine area, and both are inserting themselves directly into the fight over newly elected Justice Janet Protasiewicz.

Voters elected Protasiewicz in April by a statewide margin of 200,000 votes, shifting control of the states highest court from a conservative- to liberal-leaning majority.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, who lives in Rochester, is among Republicans in the legislature who are threatening to impeach Protasiewicz before she has heard any cases on the Supreme Court.

Vos and other Republicans are demanding that the new justice recuse herself from hearing a challenge on Wisconsins legislative district maps, because she expressed opinions about the issue during her campaign. If she refuses, the Republicans say they will impeach her.

The speakers Democratic counterpart, Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer, is lining up on the opposite side of the impeachment debate.

Neubauer, who lives in Racine, accuses Vos and his GOP colleagues of trying to thwart the will of the people in the April election by preventing Protasiewicz from holding the office to which she was elected.

Vos and Neubauers opposing viewpoints on the Supreme Court matter give Racine County residents ringside seats to the ruckus. And people are watching closely.

Scott Elmer, a member of a Facebook group called Burlington Area Conservatives, posted that he supports impeaching Protasiewicz, despite questions being raised by Democrats about whether such a move would be legal.

Do it and then let the courts decide one or two years later if it was legal, he posted. But by then, the damage has been done.

In another exchange on Facebook, Sean Cranley of the group Burlington Area Progressives, took sides with Neubauer, saying that Protasiewicz and her Supreme Court colleagues should invalidate the legislative district maps that have favored Republicans for years.

Cranley said state lawmakers would be blatant traitors to our founding principles if they impeached the new justice to prevent her from carrying out her duties.

The Republican authoritarians should do the right thing and let the process unfold according to our laws and traditions, he posted.

The seven-member Supreme Court has not announced whether it will hear a case related to the legislative maps. During the campaign leading up to Aprils election, however, Protasiewicz agreed with critics that gerrymandering has given Republicans an unfair majority in the legislature.

The Wisconsin Democratic Party has announced a $4 million effort to combat the threatened impeachment.

Voters in the April election also have filed a lawsuit to block the impeachment as an un-American, anti-democratic power play.

Vos announced Wednesday that he is creating a special panel of three former Supreme Court justices  whom he will not identify  to investigate the criteria for impeaching an elected member of the court.

Vos, whose leadership position gives him considerable control over the process, has been publicly pushing the threat of impeachment for several weeks.

Asked about criticism that such a move would be an un-democratic attack on an election, the speakers staff released a statement instead taking issue with Democrats who are vowing to fight impeachment.

All this does is prove that Justice Protasiewicz and the Democrat Party are one and the same, Vos said. We fully expect Justice Protasiewicz will recuse herself from handling a case where she has pre-decided the outcome and the Democrat Party is fully involved.

Neubauer, a leading Democrat in Madison, issued a statement that the impeachment threat shows that Vos and his GOP colleagues will stop at nothing to hold onto power, even after voters have spoken.

Our state is deeply purple, and even though Speaker Vos and I come from the same county, our visions for Wisconsins future are very different, she said. At this point, Robin Vos appears willing to permanently undermine our democracy.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
RACINE  Since 2020, Peyton Larson and her family have held a lemonade stand on her birthday to raise money for the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin.

And as Peyton prepares to turn 10, her lemonade stand will return Saturday.

Peyton was born in 2013 and was diagnosed with Down syndrome.

Her mom Amy Larson said the family found DSAW shortly after Peyton was diagnosed, and the organization helped them navigate the diagnosis.

The idea for a lemonade stand started when Peyton turned 7 in September 2020 during the pandemic and in the midst of virtual learning. The family still wanted to do something special for her, so they decided to celebrate with a lemonade stand, Amy said.

Amy posted information to NextDoor and Facebook and said nearly 100 people came by to celebrate Peyton, social distance with lemonade and donate to DSAW.

During the first years lemonade stand, Amy said they raised almost $800.

We were very thrilled, Amy said. We did not set any expectations for the day, because we didnt know if anyone would even come out because we were dealing with COVID.

The Larsons have held the stand every year since and have raised about $7,200 for DSAW.

Each year, the fundraising goes to Peytons team for DSAWs Down Syndrome Awareness Walk at the Milwaukee Zoo.

Amy said the familys fundraising goal this year is $3,000.

Amy said Peyton, who is now a fourth grader at Gilmore Fine Arts, looks forward to the lemonade stand every year because she loves lemonade and being around people.

She gets really excited, Amy said When people come by, whether she knows them or not, she always likes to run out and give everybody a hug.

The lemonade stand will be held Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 6015 Finch Lane in Caledonia.

Amy said those who cannot make it to the event but would like to donate can do so at https://secure.qgiv.com/event/statewide2023/team/927006.
Wisconsin residents should get updated COVID-19 vaccines soon, as well as annual flu shots, state health officials said Wednesday after federal health officials endorsed the new COVID-19 boosters.

The new COVID-19 immunizations target a recently circulating subtype of the omicron variant, while the vaccines offered since last year target the original coronavirus strain and an early version of omicron. Like how flu shots are updated each year, the new COVID-19 vaccine recipe should better protect people from severe disease caused by widely circulating strains, officials said.

The virus is always changing its shape a little bit, and our immune system needs to be retrained to recognize the new shape, said Dr. Ryan Westergaard, chief medical officer with the state Department of Health Services.

The new COVID-19 shots were approved by the Food and Drug Administration Monday and recommended for everyone 6 months and older Tuesday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They should be available within days at local clinics, pharmacies and health departments.

The vaccines should be free, through health insurance or programs for the uninsured. To find the shots, go to vaccines.gov or contact local health departments. For Public Health Madison and Dane County, go to go.madison.com/danecovid.

Some experts said the new boosters should be limited to people 65 and older and others at high risk for COVID-19 complications, such as those with chronic diseases. But a CDC advisory group recommended the shots for everyone at least 6 months old.

The data showing a benefit is overwhelmingly strong for older adults and less clear for the younger populations, Westergaard said. On average, for the U.S. population, immunization for everybody is likely to be beneficial, regardless of risk.

About 23% of Wisconsin residents had received the previous COVID-19 booster as of May, compared to 17% nationally, according to the CDC.

In addition to reducing severity of infections and preventing hospitalizations and deaths, the shots can help prevent long COVID, or fatigue and other symptoms that can linger long after the initial illness subsides, Westergaard said.

Very few cases of flu have emerged, but levels of flu and COVID-19 this fall and winter are expected to be similar to last season, Westergaard said. Flu surged around Thanksgiving and peaked around Christmas in the state last year.

The Southern hemisphere had a moderate to severe flu season, with the vaccine a good match, which Westergaard said may predict a similar situation in the Northern hemisphere this winter.

Flu shots are widely available already in Wisconsin, and people can get them at the same time as COVID-19 shots.

For respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, another respiratory illness particularly problematic in infants and older adults in colder months, there is now a vaccine for people 60 and older. An injectable drug is also available for babies and toddlers.
1. Yes. If KHA cant continue to run it, the city should step in. Its a necessary asset to the area.

2. Yes. The city already uses it as a warming and cooling center. It would be a smart move.

3. No. It may be in the citys interest to help subsidize insurance for the center, but nothing more.

4. No. The city doesnt need the added burden of staffing and insuring the center. Its a bad idea.

5. Unsure. It may be seem like a good idea, but other options should be explored as well.

Vote

View Results
Barbie (PG-13 for suggestive material and brief language) comedy  Director Greta Gerwig (Lady Bird) fashioned a film around a doll and all her doll friends. The marketing says it all: If you love Barbie, this film is for you. And also: If you hate Barbie, this film is for you. Stars Margot Robbie, Kingsley Ben-Adir and Ryan Gosling. Also features Will Ferrell and Rhea Perlman. 114 minutes.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 (PG-13 for suggestive material and some nudity) romantic comedy  After traveling to Greece for a family reunion, a woman attempts to locate her deceased fathers childhood friends. Directed by Nia Vardalso (A Taste of Christmas, Duck Tales), the story picks up where the second and the first film leave off. 92 minutes.

Clueless (1995) (PG-13 for sex-related dialogue and some teen use of alcohol and drugs) romantic comedy  Alicia Silverstone, Stacey Dash and Brittany Murphy star in this film directed by Amy Heckerling (Fast Times at Ridgemont High) about a shallow, rich and socially successful teenager. Also features Paul Rudd, Justin Walker and Julie Brown. 97 minutes.

Elemental (PG for some peril, thematic elements and brief frumpy language) animated adventure  Director Peter Sohn tells the story of an unlikely pair, Ember and Wade, in a city where residents of fire, water, land and air all get along and live together. Features the voices of Leah Lewis, Mamoudou Athie, Ronnie Del Carmen and Jonathan Adams as Flarry. 109 minutes.

The Equalizer 3 (R for excessive violence, language and some sexuality) action, adventure, thriller  Denzel Washington stars as Robert McCall, a man who gave up his life as a government assassin. He travels to southern Italy where he find his new friends are under the control of a crime boss. Robert decides to take on the mafia. Directed by Antoine Fuqua. Also stars Dakota Fanning. 109 minutes.

The Hill (PG for thematic content, language and smoking) biography, drama  Based on the true story of Rickey Hill who overcame all the odds to play  well, nobody wants to spoil the movie so well leave it at that. But its a major sport played with a bat. Stars Dennis Quaid, Scott Glenn and Joelle Carter. 126 minutes.

The Nun III (R for violent content and loads of terror) horror  A powerful evil force begins to spread through a town in France in 1956 after the violent death of a priest. As Sister Irene investigates the murder, she finds something even worse, a sequel the 2018 film of just about the same name, The Nun I. Directed by Michael Chaves (The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It). 110 minutes.

Strays (R for pervasive offensive language, crude and sexual content, drug use) comedy  The film boasts this concept: This is the first live action movie with talking animals to receive an R rating in the US, unlike all the previous talking animal films which were rated G, PG and PG-13. Features the voices of Will Ferrell, Jamie Foxx, Isla Fisher, Brett Gelman and Greta Lee. 93 minutes.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (PG-13 for sequences of violence and action, some stinky language and impolite stuff)  The film follows the Turtle brothers as they work to earn the love of New York City while facing down an army of mutants. Features the voices Shamon Brown, Micah Abbey and Michael Badalucco. Also includes Jackie Chan and Ice Cube. 99 minutes.
KEARNEY  In a year when tax valuations increased for so many property owners, Buffalo County has drafted a budget that might defy gravity.

On Tuesday, Administrator Lynn Martin presented the Buffalo County Board of Commissioners with a proposed budget for fiscal year 2023-24 that could produce lower taxes for some property owners at the same time the county increases its property tax asking by $1.33 million.

The countys overall proposed budget weighs in at $83 million  a 6% increase compared to 2022-23  but the spending increase will be offset by a substantially expanded tax base created by valuation updates in residential and agricultural properties ranging from around 10% to 15%.

With so much more valuation to spread out the tax load, Martin said the countys proposed levy will drop, and the effect could mean a tax cut for some property owners, if their valuation remains steady.

The countys current levy of 33 cents per $100 of assessed valuation produces a tax bill of $999.07 on a home valued at $300,000. The anticipated 2023-24 levy of 32.12 cents per $100 of assessed valuation would produce a tax bill of $963.63 for a home valued at $300,000. The owner of that hypothetical $300,000 home would enjoy a $36 reduction in county property taxes.

However, if the theoretical $300,000 homes assessed valuation rises 10%, the tax bill will go up by about $97, according to the proposed budget.

The Board of Commissioners on Tuesday conducted the annual public hearing on the proposed budget. Other than a media representative, no members of the public were present to comment on the countys proposed budget.

The commissioners are scheduled to give their final approval for the budget on Sept. 26.

That vote will come after a state-required joint public hearing on Tuesday in which many of Buffalo Countys taxing entities explain why their spending and taxes are increasing. Public comments and discussions between citizens and their elected officials also will be welcome during the session, required under Nebraskas new Truth in Taxation Act.

The joint gathering will be 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Buffalo County Extension Office, 1400 E. 34th St.

According to the Buffalo County website, taxing entities that will be represented at the hearing include Buffalo County, the municipalities of Kearney, Gibbon and Ravenna and school districts of Gibbon, Pleasanton and Shelton.
Great Beginnings Day Care in Sparta closed Sept. 9 due to an active law enforcement investigation.

In a press release posted to its Facebook page Wednesday, Sept. 13 the Sparta Police Department said it is investigating the facility. Police said the day care center will remain closed until the investigation concludes.

Gina Paige, communications director for the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, said the owners of the facility voluntarily closed and are cooperating with investigators.

The closure is temporary, according to Wisconsins Child Care Finder website. No re-opening date is listed.

We understand this places unexpected stress on area families as they struggle to find care for their children, police said in the release. However, the safety of all children is our highest priority.

The police department said it has made contact with parents whose children may have been involved in the investigation.

Paige said no further information will be released about the investigation or its cause until it is completed. It was not clear what led to the probe or how long it may take.

Cassie Cunitz, whose daughter has attended Great Beginnings for a year, said her experiences with the day care and its staff have been wonderful.

(My daughter) had been in a day care before Great Beginnings, where she would cry when I dropped her off. She hated going there. Ive never had that issue at Great Beginnings, she said. My daughter wakes up in the morning, excited to go see all of her friends and teachers. She even has asked to go home with her teacher a few times. They communicate well, they do fun projects and everything is always clean and organized.

Cunitz said she has known the owner for years and believes the staff at the facility are conscientious.

The mother said she doesnt know what led to the investigation and was notified of the closure Monday.

This has caused stress. Day care is not easy to come by. Especially one you can trust and that your child loves to go to, Cunitz said. I only have this week and two days next week covered. After that, I am not sure what I will have to do. I truly hope that whatever happened is handled properly and steps are taken to prevent something bad from happening again.

The Monroe County Department of Human Services is assisting with the investigation.

In its release, the Sparta Police Department warned that false information has spread on social media about the closing. The department has not shared what it is investigating at Great Beginnings Day Care.

Messages left at the day care facility were not immediately returned Thursday.
Alex Morey will host a Free Speech on College Campuses lecture 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19, at the Weber Center for the Performing Arts as part of Constitution Day.

Morey is the director of campus rights advocacy for The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, an organization with the mission to defend and sustain the individual rights of all Americans to free speech and free thought. She will discuss the state of free speech on college campuses and the impact it has on society at large.

An attorney and journalist by profession, Moreys approach to defending student and faculty rights combines legal strategy and public interest reporting. FIREs Campus Rights Advocacy program consists of a team of attorneys and advocates who help people of all political and ideological persuasions who face civil liberties threats on American college campuses.

Morey is a member of the First Amendment Lawyers Association. She has a juris doctorate from the University of Wisconsin Law School, a masters degree in broadcast journalism from Syracuse Universitys S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and bachelors degrees in journalism and French from the University of Arizona.

The event will also be streamed on Facebook Live at www.facebook.com/viterboethics.

The event is jointly sponsored by The D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University and LeaderEthics. The presentation is free and open to the public. No tickets are necessary, but seating is limited.
Senate Republicans on Thursday voted to override a pair of vetoes Democratic Gov. Tony Evers made to the states two-year budget that removed billions in tax cuts to Wisconsins highest earners and locked in increased K-12 school funding for the next 400 years.

While Senate GOP lawmakers hold the two-thirds majority needed to override a governors veto, Republicans dont hold the same supermajority in the Assembly. Both chambers must secure two-thirds votes to successfully override a veto. All three veto override votes passed along party lines Thursday, with all of the Senate's Democratic lawmakers opposed.

Evers called the veto override votes "B.S." in a statement Thursday.

"To think that Republicans want to take over $300 per student every year for the foreseeable future away from kids, classrooms, and schools with the work we have to do to keep class sizes small, improve outcomes in reading and literacy, and educate our future workforce, this doesnt just defy logic  its reckless and wrong," Evers continued.

Under the budget Evers signed in July, schools would be allowed to raise revenue by $325 per student per year until 2425. Given current public school enrollment levels, that's more than a $260 million increase per year. Evers worked in the 400-year increase using the governors broad veto power, a move that was heavily criticized by legislative Republicans.

To make the change, Evers used his partial veto to strike words and a hyphen in a section of the budget that referred to when the change in the revenue limit Republicans approved would apply. As a result, the phrase "for the 2023-24 school year and the 2024-25 school year" became "for 2023-2425."

While signing the budget, Evers also threw out most of the GOP plan to move the state closer to a flat tax with a $3.5 billion income tax cut that catered mostly to the wealthiest Wisconsinites.

Evers used his veto pen to maintain the state's four brackets and cut the proposed income tax cut to the top two income brackets. The income tax cuts Evers signed will provide a $175 million total tax cut, far less than the $3.5 billion Republicans proposed.

Evers vetoed Republicans' plan to reduce the 5.3% rate for individuals earning up to $304,000 and married filers earning up to about $405,000 to 4.4%. He also rejected Republicans' plan to reduce the 7.65% tax rate for individuals earning more than $304,000 or married filers earning more than about $405,500 to 6.5%.

Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, called both of the governor's vetoes "ridiculous."

Senate Republicans also voted to override Evers veto of a bill that would have barred state and local governments from restricting utility services based on the energy source.

Evers wrote in a veto message the bill would have preempted local control and could "jeopardize our communities' and out state's future ability to transition away from fossil fuels or to collectively combat climate change."
A package seeking to alleviate child care costs and worker shortages in Wisconsin passed the Assembly on Thursday, despite the almost certain guarantee that Democratic Gov. Tony Evers will veto the bills.

Among other things, the six bills, most of which passed along party lines, would create a loan program for child care providers, lower the minimum age of child care workers and increase the number of children workers could supervise.

The bills come as 63% of Wisconsin child care centers report staffing shortages and 80% of workers face burnout and exhaustion, according to a National Association for the Education of Young Children survey.

Republicans released the package in late August after Evers scheduled a Sept. 20 special session once more seeking to spend over $360 million on child care, including to maintain a child care assistance program that will run out of federal funding next year. After stripping that proposal from the budget earlier this year, Republicans said theyll reject Evers request again since they dont want to spend more taxpayer money on the program.

Democrats said the bills dont offer serious solutions.

Legislation that could reduce the quality of care for our kids, fails to keep child care center doors open tomorrow, and provides no immediate help to make child care more affordable for working families simply will not cut it, Evers spokesperson Britt Cudaback said.

One of the proposals, AB 387, would allow parents and guardians of children under 13 to create a tax-exempt account for child care expenses. Under the measure parents, family members and others would be able to contribute a combined $10,000 to the account per year, and the contributions would be tax deductible.

Another proposal, AB 388, would create a revolving loan program for child care centers. The program would allow the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation to provide up to $30,000 in interest-free loans for in-home providers and up to $100,000 for other providers.

A third bill, AB 389, would increase the maximum number of children per age that can be in a group child care center. It would also allow group child care centers to match the ratio of child care workers to children to the average ratio of teachers to pupils in the school district where the center is located.

AB 387, 388 and 389 passed along party lines.

A fourth measure, AB 390, would lower the minimum age to become an assistant child care teacher or school-age group leader from 17 to 16. It would also lower the minimum age to provide sole supervision to a group of children from 18 to 16.

Another bill, AB 391, would increase the number of children providers could supervise.

AB 390 and 391 passed with all Democrats and Rep. Scott Allen, R-Waukesha, voting against it.

A sixth proposed bill, AB 392, which passed along party lines, would create a new category of child care centers for businesses providing care for between four and 12 children. Bill proponents say the measure would expand the supply of child care slots.

Grandparents, neighbors and friends are propping up the child care industry. They need help Grandparents, neighbors and friends are propping up the child care industry. They need help Educating unlicensed caregivers Friend, family, and neighbor care Calling for more support States supporting family and friend caregivers Looking for tips to handle caregiving challenges Benefits for children and caregivers Promising results, but proper funding is lacking Making a big difference
This article appears in the September 15, 2023 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

[Print version of this article]

Prof. Georgy Toloraya

BRICS: A War Prevention Medicine

This is the prepared text, as edited, of the video presentation that Prof. Gregory Toloraya delivered to Panel 1, The Strategic Situation After the Historic BRICS Summit, of the Schiller Institutes Sept 9, 2023 conference, Let Us Join Hands with the Global Majority! Prof. Toloraya is a retired Russian senior diplomat with the rank of Minister-Counselor and is Deputy Chairman of the Russian National Committee on BRICS Research. Subheads have been added.

View full size

Schiller Institute Prof. Georgy Toloraya

Good morning. Its a great honor for me to join the conference on the Global Majority efforts to create a new chapter in world history. Im dealing with BRICS already 13 years. And I would long have expected this day to come, the day when the BRICS would become a real actor in world politics. But I was really amazed that this day came so soon.

I would say that the recent [BRICS] summit in late August in Johannesburg [South Africa], was truly an historic event. It would go into history as historic, even for technical reasons, because this was the date, and this was the summit, when the membership in BRICS expanded twofold, which nobody, including myself, has expected. Moreover, substantially, this is truly an historic summit, because this is the first time that the BRICS has declared itself to be on the way, and to be capable of creating a new world order: Its really a tide change.

Now 20 to 40 countries are interested in joining BRICS, in this or that forum, and this is something that nobody has expected, including myself.

Russias SMO Triggered a New Chapter of History

What happened? I think that the answer lies in the open confrontation which started with the special military operation of Russia in Ukraine, in February 2022, and it signaled the real, new chapter of history, when the Western countries tried to forcefully pressure the new centers of power, not to allow the appearance of a new world order.

So, this is a turbulent moment of history.

But the result was that the majority of the countries, the Global Majority, did not support these efforts by the West, although on paper and in declaratory, including in the United Nations, many countries do accuse Russia of aggression. But still, they do not agree with the Western policies of trying to keep its dominance in the global affairs and to set the rules to which all others should obey.

So theres a new situation, when the Global Majority wants a new model, a new model of international relations which is not based on the traditional model, which was used after the Second World War, when major countries, the global masters, dictate to others what they should do. And now the countries want to have equal partnership, to have many, maybe competing centers of power which play their own role, think with their own head, and doing their own policies.

Is a Global Westphalian System Possible?

In the long run, it may remind some of what was in European history in the Peace of Westphalia system, which was based on the sovereignty of nation-states, equality, non-interference, and trying to accommodate the interests of the partners. So maybe we are on the way to a global Westphalian system. However, we shouldnt forget that the Westphalian system was the result of the Thirty Years Warand maybe we are in the process of such a war. And Ukraine is just the beginning, and we may have another thirty years, or several decades of wars in different parts of the world, before, finally, such a system would emerge. This is a bad scenario.

However, war may not last for 30 years. It may last just for 30 minutes, if the major global powers would just launch their nuclear ballistic missiles. Then the war would be overin 30 minutes: This will be the end of the world.

We shouldnt, of course, agree to this, either.

So the only way is to find a way to negotiate, to try to find a solution before it comes to this. And for this, I think the crucial thing is the change in the Western policies. The Global Majority doesnt want to accept the policy of dominance, of dictate, of sanctions, of interference into internal affairs, of de facto robbery when the national assets are being confiscated voluntarily and unilaterally.

The BRICS Is Open to Cooperation with the West

So its not Russia and China which are isolated, which I hear often in different Western-sponsored forums, its rather the Western countries that are isolated. And BRICS, during this summit meeting, has shown its desire to accommodate the West. BRICS is not anti-Western. Its not against the U.S. as a country. Its not against the Western civilization. Its not against Europe. BRICS has open arms to cooperate with these countries, to include them: BRICS is an inclusive structure. And so its open to dialogue, its open to cooperation, but not on the terms of master and servant, but on equal terms. And thats what all of us should work for.

And, especially, I think that the U.S. is important in this area: The U.S. is a country with a rich history, with great natural resources, technology, finance, a land-rich population. And of course, this country plays a major role in this world, and may be very important for the future of mankind: But on equal terms, on terms of cooperation, with the newly emerging BRICS union, and Global Majority.

I wish I would see it happen. Ive waited for 13 years to see the BRICS to become a real force in international relations. I hope that the next step, when the West would be included and involved into this process, can come sooner than that.

And good luck to everybody. Thank you.
This article appears in the September 15, 2023 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

Schiller Institute Conference

Let Us Join Hands with the Global Majority

[Print version of this article]

Sept. 9One day after the 101st birthday on Sept. 8 of the late, pre-eminent American statesman, philosopher and economist Lyndon H. LaRouche, Jr., the Schiller Institute convened an international online conference titled, Let Us Join Hands with the Global Majorityan event Lyndon LaRouche would have characterized as a crucial intervention into the space-time spectrum underlying the now rapidly unfolding tectonic shift taking place in world history. The conference was organized into two panels: the first titled The Strategic Situation After the Historic BRICS Summit, and the second, A New Paradigm in the History of Mankind Is Taking Shape. Featured was an exciting array of 18 speakers representing the Global South, including three of the BRICS nations, religious leaders, space specialists, retired military-intelligence veterans and members of the International Peace Coalition, as well as leaders from Europe and the United States. (See the full Conference Program below).

The purpose of the event was twofold: First, to make conscious to people around the globe that 85% of the worlds populationthe Global Majorityis revolting against the rotten, evil, centuries-old colonial system, todays rules-based international order, that has enslaved and destroyed the lives of billions of peopleand that that Global Majority is now demanding a just new economic order based on the development of their nations for the benefit of themselves and future generations. This is reflected by the recent 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa where six nations were welcomed as new members of the BRICS, with another 40 nations anxious to join.

The second purpose, even more important, is to recruit those citizens of the collective Westincreasingly oppressed and impoverished themselvesto join this revolt to defeat the rules-based order as the American Founding Fathers succeeded in defeating the British Empire. Helga Zepp-LaRouche, founder and leader of the Schiller Institute, has characterized this uprising as a once in a thousand-year event.

What the conference made clear is that the conceptual basis for this tectonic shift in world affairs is rooted in the 50-year fight by Lyndon and Helga LaRouche for a just new economic orderwhat Mrs. LaRouche calls a New Security and Development Architectureagainst the satanic financial oligarchy, centered in the City of London and Wall Street, behind the collapsing rules-based order. This includes numerous proposals over decades for the development of todays Global South countries, but also the idea of using the American System methods of Alexander Hamilton, Abraham Lincoln, Franklin Roosevelt and Lyndon LaRouche to rebuild the rotted-out economies of Europe and the United States!

Will we succeed in recruiting citizens of the West to this revolution? In her keynote address to the first panel, Helga Zepp-LaRouche expressed optimism that we can succeed, but it will require a revolutionary change in the way people think:

So, there is all the reason for a culturally optimistic view for the future of mankind, provided we replace hatred, envy and resentment with love, generosity, and curiosity for the potential of the other cultures. We still have time to reset the axioms of our thinking.

The video of the full conference proceedings can be found here.